#Welcome December 2020 | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

harrysxcarolina · 3 months ago

Text

casually fallin’

b. eilish

warnings: wlw, smut, cussing, under age alcohol consumption, I think that’s it but let me know if there is more

wc: 7.8k

New Years Eve

december 31st, 2020

freshman year

The air was crisp. The moonlight sparkling against the still snow emphasizing the quietness in the air. Breathing in deeply, the cold air tickling your skin, a shiver runs down your spine. Gripping the balcony banister welcoming the cold.

“Please don’t stay out there too long, wouldn’t want you catching a cold.” You hear through the cracked sliding door. Chuckling to yourself you take one last look at the moon before making your way back into the warm room.

“I was just taking in the view. No need to worry.” You respond. Catching your first glance at your best friend definitely not missing her outfit choice of the night. A tight form fitting dress that stopped mid thigh. A slight slit on the right side. Fixating on her curves perfectly. You nod in approval.

“Yeah well you’ve taken in the view every night since the night we first got here. When are you actually gonna go out and partake in the activities made for the view?” Chelsea states, chuckling as she throws her makeup brush in your direction.

“You know what. At least I showed up. You know I hate any type of outdoor activity that involves snow.” You retorted, picking up the brush and placing it down on the bed next to her.

“Hey I’m just impressed you actually left the room during this trip. I guess we have Billie to thank for that.” She jokes as she gives you a suggestive look. A smirk working its way across her face.

“Oh please. What does she have to do with this?” You state as you feel the slight pull in your core at the mere mention of her name. Your cheeks heat up at the memory of the last couple days you’ve spent with Billie that was planned specifically for skiing. Yet the both of you couldn’t be bothered as you both preferred the heat of the fireplace. The warm hot chocolate with mini marshmallows. The coziness of the lodge as it was decorated for the holidays. The lights off the Christmas tree twinkling just right as you sit on the floor next to the fireplace trying to teach her how to play chess.

The tea you would eavesdrop on from the other guest as you both curled up on the leather couches sharing a sugar cookie Billie bought from the hot cocoa stand in the lounge. You both lose yourselves in laughter at some of the gossip you’ve witnessed. You didn’t realize how much time you’ve spent with her. Getting up and making your way to your side of the room you begin to rummage through your bag. Actively trying to avoid the sharp stare coming across the room like daggers from your best friend.

“You couldn’t be more oblivious could you?” Chelsea questions as she shoots up from her spot on the bed and plops down onto yours. “You do realize she gives you the ‘please fuck me’ eyes anytime you guys are in the same room.” She whispers as she makes herself comfortable on the bed.

Eyes growing wide you glance up finally making eye contact. “Oh my god. She definitely does not. Plus we aren’t even sure if she like girls. She’s only ever been with guys.” You state as you hold up a dress for her opinion.

Shaking her head, gently pushing you out of the way she begins her own search through your stash of clothes. “That you know of! All that matters is who her attention is on. News flash. It’s you. It’s always you. The only people who don’t see it are you two. How cliche. Almost like it was written straight from a rom-com.” She finishes with a scoff as she holds up a black dress that reaches mid thigh. “This is it.”

Rolling my eyes, and grabbing the dress. “We are just friends, and even if you don’t believe that I’m not out. Only you know, remember? As far as we know, neither is she. She has given no indication that she wants anything more anyways. Everything has been platonic between us.” Making my way to the bathroom groaning under my breath trying to rid the thoughts of the situation and closing the door slightly.

“You’ve hung out every single day we’ve been on this trip. I heard her telling Ava that the only reason she came on this trip was to talk to you. She chose this school trip over going home to see her family for the holidays. That has to mean something. You can’t tell me otherwise. I think tonight might be the night love bug.” Chelsea states, fully standing her ground. “You totally like her though, right?” She questions causing you to pause your undressing and catch your own reflection in the mirror. You’re quiet for a moment. Processing her words.

You totally like her though, right?

Peaking your head out from the bathroom. Catching eye contact we stay silent.

��You already know that I-“

“No. Don’t start that bullshit. It’s simple. Do. You. Like. Her?” She questions again.

Your bottom lip finding its way between your teeth. Nodding you feel your cheeks heat up for the second time that night.

Chelsea’s contagious laugh fills the room. She falls back onto the bed kicking her feet.

“I fucking knew it bitch.” She yells excitedly. Jumping off the bed and running over to you. Definitely not caring that you are half dressed in the dress that she picked out for tonight.

“What better way than to end the year than to confess your feelings for her?” She asks as she wraps her arms around your shoulders pulling you in close. Her cheek pressed up against yours as you both stared at each other through the mirror. You knew you’d have to come clean eventually. You couldn’t deny the feelings that have started to slowly brew ever since the two of you have begun hanging out. Way before the trip. Your bottom lip once again finds its home between your teeth as you feel the flight of a million butterflies in the pit of your belly.

“Breathe.” She whispers in your ear as the smirk spreads across her face. Her fingers danced across your shoulders as you let out the breath you didn’t realize you were holding.

“I’m scared.” You whisper your eyes catching again through the glass.

“We always are.” She states as she lays her head against your shoulder. “You’ll be okay. I know it.”

***

Your grip on Chelsea's hand gets tighter as you both make your way through the sea of people. The smell of sweat and smoke fill the air as the room vibrates from the bass of the speakers. The loud music radiating through the crowd as they all get hyped up for the beat drop. Smirking to yourself you glance around taking in the core memory.

You feel yourself get pulled slightly to the right as you blindly follow Chelsea’s lead. Taking a breath of relief as you see a table of your friends sitting in the back corner of the conference room, the staff has turned the big room into a celebration for the end of the year. The lights decorating the dance floor. The smoke that filters through the air from the fog machine that sat right below the DJ booth. The atmosphere was electric as everyone was ready to start off the new year with a bang.

The room was warm with different bodies as they all danced and mingled together. The rhythm of the music and sways of bodies made butterflies erupt in the pit of your stomach. You weren’t one for parties but tonight’s vibe just hit you differently. Unsure of what the night will unfold. Slightly scared, and definitely nervous you couldn’t wait for it to begin.

Sliding into an open chair at the table you say your hellos to your friends already there. Glancing over at Chelsea you both can’t help but laugh at how chaotic that walkthrough felt. Your eyes make work scanning the room looking for one person in particular.

“Don’t worry, she will be here.” Chelsea half yells in your ear over the music. Smirking and playfully swatting her away you try and hide your face in your hand as you reach for a flute of champagne. Taking a big gulp you lean back in the chair as you begin your people watching as Chelsea sits comfortably beside you chit chatting with a girl you believe you had in your Chem class.

“Well look what the cat drug in. We thought you were beginning to think you were too cool to party with us.” Amanda, the girl Chelsea was speaking with, states as Billie makes her way to the table we were all at. A few of her other friends are close behind. She quickly smirks with a shrug of her shoulders.

“Well I’m here now bitches!” She jokes as she bounces her way into the group.

Making her way around the table greeting each person. Saving you for last.

Smirking down at you you catch her eyes quickly glancing you up and down before she quickly grabs an empty chair and pulls it up beside you. Your knees are just inches apart. You swear you could feel the heat radiating off her body as her dark locks cascaded down her back. Leaning back with a slight tilt of her hips, a few pieces fall to frame her face, she adjusts her pants. It was your turn to glance at her as you take your time working your way up her body. Having no shame. Chelsea was right. Tonight was the night. You were going to confess your feelings. You just had to wait for the right time.

Taking in every detail from the way she matched her socks to the color of her shoelaces to how the jersey she was wearing was slightly cut just low enough that it left a gap big enough to see the black lace trim along her bra any time she would fidget in her seat. Which she has done quite a bit since sitting down just a mere few moments ago. Your mouth watering at the sight. Biting your lip to hold back the whimper that was so desperately trying to escape.

“Hey you,” she states as she leans forward searching for your eyes as a smile spreads across her face. Bashfulness spreads through you as you quickly glance down blushing once again, but this time it claims the entirety of your body and not just your cheeks.

“Hi.” You whisper smiling up at her through your laces.

“Do you maybe wanna get out of here for a few?” She asks as you feel her fingertips tease your exposed skin. Softly leaving her trace around your knee.

Nodding your head you watch her smile grow bigger as she slides her chair back and reaches her hand out towards you. Smirking, you grab her hand and stand up. Leaning over you quickly inform Chelsea of your absence before you feel Billie intertwine her fingers with yours and pull you away.

Chelsea throws you an encouraging smile as she waves you goodbye.

Shaking your head, turning your attention to the heartbeat that is taking over your intertwined fingers as Billie looks back at you with a twinkle of mischief in her eyes. You both pull yourselves closer as the swarm of bodies invade your bubble. Body parts everywhere as you fight your way through. Her body brushes up against yours as your breath hitches. Her hand on your lower back.

“Stay close, mamas. Don’t wanna lose you in this crowd.” She yells into your ear as she pulls you tighter against her as she turns and begins to lead you through the crowd. Her grip on you tightens, finally getting you both through the tight crowd.

Not sure where exactly she is leading you too but you enjoy the tingles at the tips of your fingers caused by the weight of her hand in yours. “Is this okay?” Billie softly asks as she slows her steps and looks over her shoulder at you. Glancing around the empty lodge you nod your head as you lead her to one of the empty couches you’ve grown custom to next to the fireplace. Welcoming the warmth.

“I’m sorry that I drug you away from the party.” Billie whispers as she takes her seat next to you on the couch playing with the silver rings decorating her fingers. Looking over at her without saying a word you carefully tuck a piece of her fallen hair behind her ear. Your fingertips gently brushing against her cheek. Glancing up at you, the realization of what you just did causes your cheeks to get hotter than they ever have before.

“You didn’t drag me anywhere. I followed..” I wanted to. You state as you quickly tuck your hands in your lap looking anywhere other than into her piercing blue eyes. You felt her stare linger as her eyes trace every curve and freckle on your face. Her body scooting just slightly closer to yours. Your legs now fully pressed against each other as her hand slithers its way along the back of the couch. You welcome the heat from her body and the fireplace as you sink further into her and the couch.

You both sit comfortably in silence taking in the last few moments of the year. The lights twinkling off the tree. The soft Christmas carols playing from the radio behind the check-in desk. The hum of excitement leaking out of the conference hall as you hear the five minute warning before the New Year begins. You feel Billie’s fingertips play with the thin strap from your dress. Her fingers tracing up and down your skin causing goosebumps to rise a shiver across your body.

“You know me and my family do this thing every New Year’s Eve where we go around and we all say one wish that we want to receive in the next year. It’s a silly tradition, but my mom makes us do it every year.” You state as you lean towards Billie. Shuffling around to where you both are now face to face. Only inches apart. Your breath catches. Not realizing how close the two of you are now.

Her breath tickles the tip of your nose as she reaches up only to stop herself half way. Breathing deeply you glance up catching her eyes. Her cheeks are flushed. Pieces of hair loosely falling to frame her face. Her bottom lip caught between her teeth. The black eyeliner painted on her underline made her icy blue eyes pop even more. You’d be lying if you didn’t feel the tension in the air. You’ve thought about this moment so many times before. Never actually believing it would happen.

“What’s your wish?’ She breathes as you notice her chains dancing around her neck as she slowly leans forward. Her minty breath invades your senses as her lips just barely brushes yours. If you were to lean in just a smidge your lips would be locked. You hope you aren’t reading the signs wrong. Taking one last breath there’s no turning back now.

“You,” you whisper.

It’s as if time stopped. Your eyes meet one final time. You hear the countdown begin.

10, 9, 8…

You hear her breath catch as her eyes search yours for any hint of dishonesty.

7, 6, 5…

She isn’t going to find any as this time she doesn’t stop her hand from entangling itself into your hair.

4, 3, 2…

Leaning up onto your knees so you are slightly towering over her, your hands tangle themselves into the collar of her jersey pulling her closer as you finally crash your lips against hers.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

The loud echo of fireworks and the yells of excitement are heard all throughout the lodge, but the only thing you can focus on is the feeling of Billie's lips battling against yours as her fingers tangle deeper into your hair falling backwards onto the couch pulling you with her. Your tongue gently traces her bottom lip not missing the way her hips slightly buck up as you slide one of your hands up her side. Taking in the rise and fall of her chest as your lips continue their battle for dominance. Billie’s hands stay firm as one hand is tangled deep into your hair while the other quickly grips your hip. Heads tilting as the kiss gets deeper.

Pulling away slightly to catch your breath and to make sure that this was actually real you feel your heart beating against your chest. Refusing to open your eyes, your hand still tightly gripping Billies' side. Her chest heaving just as hard.

Her hand not giving you the chance to pull away for long before she is chasing your lips. Capturing yours quickly causing a smile to spread across your face. Her face heating up in embarrassment. The kiss lingers as your lips gently tease each other as they softly brush against one another. Slowly pulling apart for the second time that night you stay lying against her as she reaches up and finally tucks the fallen piece of hair behind your ear.

“Happy New Year, mamas” she whispers against your lips as she looks up at you with a coy smirk playing across her face.

A light hum leaves your lips as you return her smile. “Happy New Year Billie.”

“Ah there you two are. We’ve been looking for you.” Amanda screeches as she bounces her way to the sitting area. You quickly climb off Billie and try and collect yourself as you refuse to look in Billies direction. “Sorry. Just needed to step away from the craziness for a moment.” You state as you notice the hurtful sting you caused Billie by removing her hands from your body. Copying your movements she sits up and adjusts her shirt.

“Yeah, sorry. Lost track of time.” She replies standing up off the couch digging her hands deep into her pockets, her eyes not leaving you. Amanda glances between the both of you for a moment. “No worries. The group is waiting back there if you wanna come join us for shots? Heard it's the tradition here for the freshmen.” She jokes as she leads you both back to the group.

Walking back into the craziness of the party you can’t help but begin to overthink everything about the kiss. Was it simply just because it was the new year or did it hold more? Was it the excitement of kissing someone at the stroke of midnight for her? Did you take it too far? You mind wonders as your hand gently brushes up against hers as you shuffle your way through the crowd back to the table. Glancing up your eyes meet, unable to deciever the flash of emotion in Billies eyes you take a deep breath before making the executive decision to say fuck it and start the new year differently than you have before.

Grasping her hand you quickly interlace your fingers with hers not missing a step as you continue to follow Amanda. You felt her squeeze your hand and you couldn’t fight the smile that worked its way across your face. Biting your lip you steal a glance behind you at the dark haired girl who was closely following. Her eyes already on yours. Her smile matches yours as she pauses your movements. Hands still intertwined her other gripping your waist tightly pulling you flush against her. Looking up at you. Her fingers squeeze your side glancing between your eyes and swollen lips.

“Are you going to ask me what my wish is?” She asks over the loud music. People are still dancing around you as if the night was young. Your face lights up in amusement. Reaching up and gently brushing her cheek. Smirking as you not only see but feel the heat rush to her cheeks.

“What is your wish Bils?” You ask shyly, glancing down at your clasped hands gently playing with her rings. Her fingertips tilt your head back to her attention. Her bottom lip caught between her teeth.

“You. It’s always been you.” She declares her stare never faltering.

“You never said anything. I- I never knew. I thought you only saw this as a friendship.” You state as you pull her closer. Her hand sliding across your lower back not letting go of your hand. “I was scared. I wanted to make sure it wasn’t just a crush. This would be my first time- my first time with a girl.” She gulped, dropping her gaze but quickly bringing it back.

“What are you thinking about?” She asks as she searches your face.

“That I really don’t want to take shots with everybody, and that I’d much rather get out of here with you.” You say boldly not missing her lip biting smirk as she looks up at you with flirty eyes.

“Oh yeah?” Her smirk never fails as she spins you around and pulls you towards the door. Slightly running to keep up with her speed walking you couldn’t help that laugh that escaped as she zig zags you through the crowd. Praying that Amanda doesn’t spot you out as you are almost to the door.

“Uh huh not so fast love birds.” Chelsea calls out as you see her leaning up against the door frame holding three shot glasses in her hand.

“I see you took my advice friend,” She continues as you both stand there watching her as she downs one shot. Billie looks over at your questionably raising her eyebrows in interest. You smile before letting go of her hand and taking the few steps to Chelsea. Grabbing one of her shots you clink the glass against hers before downing yours. Chelsea and Billie both stare at you in shock.

“Do us both a favor and spend the night with Amanda? I’m sure Billie won’t mind would you Billie?” You ask Chelsea, glancing over your shoulder at Billie holding out the third and final shot to her. Licking her lips as she checks you out. Making her way towards you grabbing the shot glass and bringing it to her lips. Eyes never leave yours as she tilts her head back downing the shot.

“Not at all.” She responds as she sets the empty shot glass on a table nearby.

“Yeah I kind of figured when y’all ditched us earlier.” Chelsea chokes out as she pushes herself off the wall and steps between us wrapping her arms around the both of us.

“Have fun kids. Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do.” Chelsea jokes as she looks between us one last time giving you a thumbs up as she pushes Billie towards the door. A chuckle leaves your lips as you shoo her away following close behind Billie.

She reaches her hand back for you as she heads towards the elevator. Taking a deep breath and grasping her hand.

***

You didn’t make it very far before hands began exploring bodies. Lips tangled together as you feel for the light switch inside your room. Her body pressing yours against the door as her hand grips your hip and the other on the side of your neck. Moaning out as she slides her fingers into your hair as the kiss deepens.

Giving up on the light as the hand on your hip slowly slides up your back. Gripping the zipper she begins the slow torture of working it down your spine. Back arching off the door wishing the fabric barrier was already gone and it was her hands skimming your skin. Your hands slide up her arms and tangle themselves in her hair as her lips work their way across your jaw and down your neck. Teeth grazing every so often leaving small marks.

Your breath ragged as the zipper reached its end and her finger tips found your skin.

“Fuck,” you mumble throwing your head back against the door. Her breathing catches as her lips halt on your neck.

“Tell me it’s real. I ne- I need to hear you say it.” She whispers her head falling onto your shoulder trying to slow her breathing down. Looking down and tilting her head back up, quickly moving the stray pieces of hair out of her vision, you softly peck her lips. Pushing off the door you hands gripping her cheeks holding her in place as you lead her backwards. Her lips chasing yours as she follows you blindly.

Your heart is racing. You can feel your pulse deep in your ears as Billies knees buckle against the bed. Hitting the comforter you slowly climb your way on top of her. Your legs straddling her hips towering over her. It was your turn to leave your mark as your lips work their way across her skin leaving love bites in their wake. Lips moving tantalizingly slow working your way down her neck to her collar bones. Her hands gripping and grasping at your naked back moaning at the fact that beneath your dress you are toppless.

“Is this real enough?” You ask. Your tongue tracing shapes on her warm skin. Her chest heaves, head tilted back and eyes squeezed closed. Her head nodded frantically.

“I can feel your heart beating baby.” You whimper as you move your lips to her pulse point on her neck. Sucking it sweetly causing the prettiest of moans to escape the girl below you. You feel her heart begin to beat even faster at the feel of your lips against her warm skin. The pet name driving her crazy. Her grip on you tightens, pleading you to move. To do anything to help relieve the ache building between her thighs.

Moaning in her ear at the glorious friction between your thighs.

“Please,” she begs as her back arches into you as your hand grips her hip, rotating your hips against her gloriously. Her begging echos off the walls. Holding her in place as you feel the wetness start to pool between your legs. Grinding yourself fast against her thighs. Hitting all the right places. Her hands roaming your body as her breathing gets heavier in your ear. Her soft moans and whimpers fuel you as your lips find her neck once more.

She is quick to find your lips. Her hands gripping your face as she takes your bottom lip between her teeth. Her hips buck up against you as her grip moves to your neck. Forcing you to look at her. Your bottom lip finding its way between your teeth as a whimper leaves your lips. Her tongue swipes across her lips as she looks up at you. The smile slowly grew across her face.

“You look really pretty,” you whisper shyly looking down at her softly. Your fingers reach up and trace the outline of her face. Starting from her temple, around her eyebrow, down her nose, across her lips landing on her chin. Your cheeks heat up as you watch the moonlight sparkle across her pale cheeks. Noticing the much lighter shade of blue that took over her eyes. Now noticing the cold chill in the room as a shiver runs down your spine. Glancing over you notice the small crack in the sliding door you must have forgotten to close earlier.

Slowly working your way to the end of the bed only to get stop by Billie tugging on your hand. “Where are you going?” She groans sitting up as you slide off her body and shimmy the small black dress to the floor. Her breathing stops completely as she sits there staring at you in awe. Tits out on full display, and the skimpiest black lace thong is the only thing hugging your body.

Stepping out of the dress and thong you smirk before bouncing your way across the room to the door.

“I forgot to close the curtains,” you reply, looking back at her over her shoulder as you pull the curtains shut. Her once soft blue eyes have turned icy cold as they trace every curve and line of your figure. Her teeth harshly biting down on her lip as she slowly stands up from the bed and takes the couple steps to you. Her once straight hair now tangled as it sways from her pace. Her jersey bunched up just above her waist line.

”Who said they had to be closed?” She softly asked her fingertips itch to touch your warm skin again. A gasp leaves your lips eyebrows furrow noticing her slow steps. Swinging the curtains back open as she reaches you.

“Anything you wanna- you wanna try?” You huff out as her hands find your hips pushing them back against the cold door. Her lips find your neck making hasty work. “I want to touch you.” She whispers against your ear. Her hand slowly working its way up your side not missing the goosebumps that follow her trail.

“Fucking shit Bi-“

”I want you to touch me.” She interrupts as your earlobe finds itself between her teeth. Heat consumes your body as she takes over all your senses. The cold chill of the door not helping to cool down your rising heat. “In every single way.” She finishes as her lips leave open mouth kisses up to your lips.

You take no time to find the hem of her shirt and quickly discard it off her body. Throwing it across the dark room not caring where it lands as your eyes take her in for the first time. Groaning and grasping you, pull her flush against you. Lips colliding in a tangled battle as your hands quickly unclasp her bra. Her hands make quick work to unbutton her pants and kick them down her legs. Never breaking apart as your fingers get tangled deep in her hair as her bra is soon added to the clothes collection.

Chest heaving as the kiss gets deeper. Thighs tangle together as you spin your bodies around. She hissed out as her back feels the chill air off the door. Her tongue traces your bottom lip patiently asking for permission. Denying her as you work your lips down her body. Humming softly as you hover above her breast. Looking up at her through your lashes. Her stare already following all your moves. Her chest rises and falls as your tongue gently and oh so very softly teases her nipple.

“Mmm fuck, please-“ She moans arching her back off the door trying to find contact. Gripping her hips you pin her hips right where they were. Licking your lips, taking your time as you leave open mouth kisses on her cleavage. Her moans don’t go unnoticed as you make your way to show the same attention to the other. Her head tilted back against the cold glass as her hands buried themselves deep in your hair pushing your face flush against her breast.

“Put me in your mouth. God you are killing me, pretty girl.” Billie moans out looking down at you with pleading eyes. Wasting no time your lips capture her bud and suck, lick, bite, and twist the sensitive nerve. Over and over again. Repeating your actions getting lost in the way she feels against your wet tongue. The way she sounds from your simple touch. Groaning as your continue your torture even further down.

Between the valley of her breast. Across her tummy giving special attention to the tattoo that lay permanently above her hips. Smirking against her skin as your fingertips trace her pantie line. The thin material gently tickles her skin as you slowly slide them off.

“Are you sure about this Billie?” You ask once more, laying a gentle kiss on her hip looking up at her through your lashes. Glancing down at you she releases her hold on her bottom lip as her tongue traces the pink skin.

Nodding her head yes, as her fingertips trace your jawline.

“Please,” she whispers as her hips buck up brushing against your lips. A moan leaves her lips above you as you grip her hip and lay a kiss to her mound. Your tongue diving between her lips moaning as you lap up her juices. So sweet. Fuck.

Your lips suckling her as your fingernails dig into her skin, your tongue swirling all around getting lost in the taste of her. Her hands bury themselves deep into your hair as her hips grind harder against your tongue. Her back arching off the glass door as you move your tongue to tease her clit.

Billie gasps as you lock her clit between your teeth. “Fuck, look at you kneeling beneath me, suck-fuck-sucking my fucking clit. Shit-right there baby,” She moans as she pushes your face deeper into her cunt. Grinding her hips the way she wants against your face as her free hand reaches up and grasps her tit. Squeezing and twisting her nipple. You groan against her wet heat as your tongue glides between her slit teasing her warm hole.

”God Bils you taste so fucking good,” You moan as you lick your lips grinning up at her. Her breathing ragged as her chest heaved up and down. Her eyes never leave you as you glide your fingers through her wetness. Spreading her wetness all around her clit, kneeling up and tracing your lips across her hip bone. Looking up at her as your teeth graze her skin, your fingers working their way lower into her core.

Her hips buck off the door as your fingertips tease her hole. The tip of your middle finger flirting with her as you leave open mouth kisses across her skin. Humming against her skin, “What do you want baby?” You ask softly as you pin her hips back against the cold door. You notice the small condensation building from the heat of her body and the chilly air seeping in.

“Your fingers. Please,” she whines, fighting your grip on her hip desperately wanting to feel your touch deeper. Smirking you peck her hip once more, “So polite Bils-” you hum as you thrust two fingers into her pussy. Groaning as your grip tightens against her hips aiding in holding her up as she gets lost in the feeling of you between her walls. Your fingers thrusting and rubbing her in all the right places as you twist your wrist. Your lips find their way back to her clit as you swivel your warm buds against her. Flicking, biting, and sucking her as your fingers get deeper searching for her sweet spot. Her moans get louder as her hands grip your head and her hips rock back and forth against you.

“Holy shit, yes right there. Please, don’t stop.” Billie moans as you repeatedly hit that spongy spot that’s driving her crazy. Thrusting your fingers harder against her as you slide your tongue down between her folds missing the taste of her. Your nose rubbing her clit perfectly as her hips rotate even faster.

“Please, please, please,” She whines. “Im so fucking close pretty. Please don’t stop,” she begs as you feel her clench around your fingers. She can feel your smirk against her core as the heat building deep in her belly explodes and consumes her entire body. Her legs shaking as she pulls your face closer, wanting you to take in every drop she has to offer you. Her body sliding down the door as her body shakes against you. Your thumb rubbing circles against her clit helping her ride out her high on your fingers. Glancing up at her you can’t help but marvel at the sight of her.

Lips swollen and red from the constant pressure of her teeth. Her cheeks are rosy pink. Hair tangled and pinned down from sweat. Her chest heaves as her eyes meet yours. A small smirk works its way across her cheeks as she slides the rest of the way down to the carpeted floor. Her hands working their way from your hair to your cheek as her thumb traces your bottom lip.

A blush creeps to your cheeks as her eyes work from your gaze to your lips back up again. Brushing a piece of hair behind your ear you lean your head into her hand. Trying to fight your smile as you gently move her thigh sliding your fingers out. Her hand grips your wrist as your fingers graze her clit. Your eyes meet as she lifts your hands up. You watch her as she lifts your cum covered fingers to her lips. Groaning as she cleans your fingers with her tongue. Making sure to take every last drop before she drops your hand and grips your neck. Pulling you flush against her as her lips crash against yours. Tasting her on her tongue as she slides her tongue against yours in a passionate kiss.

Your legs wrapping around her hips as her hands grip your thighs. Your tongues battle for dominance as your heads tilt, deepening the kiss. Your hands work their way from her neck to her breast. Missing the feel of her under your fingers. Gripping and twisting her nipples as your teeth grip her bottom lip. Biting and pulling it as her back arches up into your touch. Your fingers still slightly wet from being between her lips. Your lips work their way down her jaw to her neck. Leaving a trail of hot kisses along her pulse point.

Tilting her head back giving you more room as your tongue traces random shapes on her warm skin.

Her grip tightens as her hips buck up.

“My turn,” She moans as she pushes you back gently towering over you. Welcoming the warmth from the carper and her lips as she works them up your leg. Taking her time as she kisses every inch of skin. Her hands skim your hip as she slides her leg between yours. Her thigh rubbing up against your core. Moaning at the friction you’ve been neglected from.

Heat burning in all the places her hands touch as they work their way up your body as her lips attack your neck. Her teeth leaving love bites all along your skin as you feel her wetness against your thigh. Your hips grind against her as your hands grasp at her back.

“Billie-“ You moan out as her fingertips pinch your nipple as her teeth dig into the skin at the base of your neck. Your fingers scratch down her back as her hips move faster against you. Moaning in your ear her breathing heavy.

“God you feel so fucking good underneath me pretty girl.” She whispers into your neck. “Being such a good girl. Making me feel so fucking good mamas,” Billie groans as she slides her hand between your thighs. Throwing your head back against the floor and moving your hips even faster as her fingertips find your swollen clit. Begging to be touched and played with. “Just wanna make you feel good pretty, wanna make you feel so good.” She whines.

Her hot breath hitting your skin, your vision blurring as her fingers sunk deep into your cunt as she thrust her fingers inside you without warning you swear you could feel her in your stomach.

Moaning loudly as your back arches into her. “Fuck yes! Just like that shit-” you scream.

Your bodies rocking hard against each other chasing the burning heat growing deeper inside you. Her fingers hitting all the right spots as her hips grind and rotate against you. “Billie I-” you start but are soon cut off by her lips. Capturing your bottom lip between hers swallowing your moans as you begin to clench around her fingers. You couldn’t hold it much longer especially if she kept grinding herself the way she was against you and moving her fingers so gloriously against your walls you needed to cum.

You needed to cum bad and soon. Clenching your thighs around her as you grind harder against her fingers. “Hold it,’ She growls as she glides her dripping core harder against your thigh as you tilt it up causing her to fall into you completely encasing your body underneath her. Your moans echoing off the walls as you grip her hips helping her move against you.

“Please, I wanna cum for you. Wanna be good and cum for you,” you whine in her ear as your lips trace her earlobe. Her hips faulting against you as your words seep into her skin. “Fuck, I’m cumming. Shit- I’m cumm-” She moans as her legs clench tightly around you as you feel her orgasm take over. Her body shaking and convulsing above you as her fingers curl hitting your g-spot perfectly over and over again. Her lips attacking your neck as her body arches into you.

Your grip on her tightens as you hold her tighter against you grinding up against her. Loving the feeling of her losing herself ontop of you. Watching as her body shakes and quivers all because of your touch sends a spark throughout your body. Morning loudly as your bottom lips finds itself between your teeth you can’t fight back the growing need much longer.

“Fuck, be my good girl and cum for me baby. C’mon mamas give me what I want.” She begs in your ear. Her words being the tipping point you needed as you clench around her fingers pulling her deeper into you. Your hips rubbing your cum all over her as you see stars. Moaning her name over and over again as her fingers don’t give up. Her lips still on your skin finding their way back to yours.

Capturing your lips relishing in your moans against her lips as she works your way through your high. Losing yourselves as your breathe in each other's air as you both try to catch your breath. Eyes still closed holding each other enjoying the bliss that is radiating off each other. You hear her giggle softly as she gently pulls back and kisses the tip of your nose.

Your eyes flutter open as you blink away the stars. Her body still on top of yours as your fingers move to trace her jawline. Smiling up at her tucking a piece of falling hair behind her ear.

“Hi,” you whisper as your lip finds its way between your teeth. A chuckle leaves her lips as she carefully removed your lips from between your teeth leaning down and placing a chaste kiss on your lips.

“Hi you,” she whispers back as her cheeks heat up. Her free hand traces soft shapes on your tummy. Her body gives off heat as you both lay there engulfed in each other. “That was,”

“Amazing,” you finish, causing a bashful smile to form on her lips. Matching her you catch her eyes as she leans down slowly. Her lips gently brushing against your as you feel her breath fan across your face.

“That’s one word I would use.” She jokes back as she slowly slides her fingers out from between your heat and brings them up to her lips. Her lips caging them in as she closes her eyes enjoying the taste of you on her tongue. “Fuck.” She groans as she sucks them clean looking down at you. A mischief look takes over her face as she leans down and slides her tongue between your lips.

Your hands gripping her neck holding her against you as you battle against her.

“You taste good mamas,’ she groans as she grips the side of your neck. Her forehead laying against yours. You smirk as you trace up and down her spine.

“C’mon we need to get cleaned up and in bed sweet girl.” You whisper as you peck her forehead and gently push her up. Groaning in protest as her hands hip your hips. “Nooo I want to cuddle.” She whines in your neck. As soon as she said the words you felt her body shiver from the cold air. Remembering the still cracked door you both migrated in front of. Gripping her tighter against you briefly.

“We can cuddle in bed. I promise.” You state as you lead her in sitting up. A chuckle leaves your lips as you notice her quiet huff as she stands up and holds her hand out for you. Taking her offer and leading her to the bathroom you squeeze her hand as you glance back at her with a smile.

You can’t help the butterflies that are once again fluttering deep in your belly as her gaze meets yours after they worked their way up your naked figure. “You look so pretty, baby.” She gushes out at you as she follows you willingly.

Your cheeks heating once again at her words. “Thank you.” You whisper with a smile. You grab a washcloth off the counter and turn the water onto warm. Billie makes her way behind you as you stand there waiting for the water to heat up. Her hands find your hips as her lips kiss along your shoulder blade. Her front being completely pressed up against your back. Humming a soft tune as she watches your through the mirror as you wet the cloth. Making quick work to clean yourself and then turning around to clean Billie. Her eyes never leaving yours as you slide your hand slowly down her torso.

Her breathing hitches as you gently grip her hip as your work the warm cloth between her folds. Her body falls into yours. Her hands squeeze you tighter as her forehead lays on your shoulder. Her warm breath hitting your naked skin. Her hips buckle slightly as your graze her sensitive clit.

“All finished.” You whisper as you lay the cloth on the counter. Her body still pressed against yours as she releases her lip from between her teeth and slowly lifts her head looking up at you. She pulls on your hips causing you to fall into her as she connects your lips with a soft kiss. Her hand gripping your lower back steadying you as you lose yourself in her kiss.

“Cuddles, please?” She asks as she grips your hand in hers leading you back towards the bed. Nodding your head in agreement as your smiles match each others. Pushing her gently towards the bed you release her hand and step around her. Her smile falters as her gaze follows you.

“Where are you-“ She begins.

”I still gotta close the curtains.” You state with a smirk as you close the glass door and pull the curtains closed before turning on your heel and bouncing your way back to her. Your body falling into hers causing you both to fall back onto the bed. Her arms wrapping themselves around your torso as she braces you for the impact. A giggle leaves your lips as you peck her lips once more.

Groaning, she grabs your cheek bringing your lips back to hers.

“Cuddles and maybe more kisses.” She whispers against your lips. Leaving you no choice but to nod in agreement as you find yourselves tangled back up in the sheets basking in the heat of her lips on yours.

pt 2

#billie eilish #Billie eilish x female reader #Billie Eilish smut #Billie eilish x fem!reader #Billie eilish fic #Billie eilish blurb #Billie eilish fanfic #Billie eilish x y/n #Billie eilish x reader #Billie eilish fluff #b eilish #wlw

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vldunchartedregions · 2 months ago

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Voltron Season 8 Meta Introduction

Hi! Welcome to "Uncharted Regions."

Now that it's been several years since Voltron Season 8 came out, the news of Netflix's removal of the series on December 14th, 2024 shook the fandom and pop culture as a whole.

You may be wondering... 1) Huh?! 2) Why?! It's a Netflix Original! 3) I loved this show, I don't understand! I was the same, too. We were all a little confused. However, licensing rights were ending to Netflix and Netflix doesn't want to renew. Fair play.

As someone who worked in a corporate company who also provides live streaming services + has a degree in television production, I have a better understanding of the executive decisions at play that comes down to it. It was not too hard to decipher why when you know what went on in the trenches of the Voltron fandom from 2016-2018.

The bottom line is that Netflix marketing did not match the source material provided, and there was intensive discourse across multiple facets of the fandom. You can imagine Netflix were not fans of the outcome of the series, and may not have even been told by Dreamworks the outcome of the series when Season 8 dropped; especially when Netflix's global social media accounts openly admitted to shipping Klance on Twitter.

Regardless, we're not looking at who's to blame, but you do have to wonder how such a large international miscommunication between Netflix, Dreamworks, and Voltron's IP holders went down the corporate funnel.

...I digress, let's move on.

As many people did from the news of it's removal (which also surprised the official Voltron accounts), I got back into the Voltron fandom really quickly and tried to rewatch as much as I could before it's inevitable removal from Netflix.

I haven't touched this show in years, friends. Not since 2020. The rewatch showed me one thing: that this show is breathtaking, stunning, and at it's core - it represented change. It's truly one of it's kind. To have the crew from Avatar: the Last Airbender, and Legend of Korra working on it on such a high level? Hell, there was an MFE pilot spin off in the works.

There was a lot of promising stories to tell with new outcomes and twists with a classic IP such as Voltron. It was promising a new future and fresh takes with comics, games, and so much more.

Now, alike to most viewers, I was there when Season 8 dropped. Hell, I was at the NYCC 2018 panel where they gave out these posters (which will be VERY relevant to this meta, I assure you):

The hype of Voltron Season 8 lead to a FULL panel that got closed off mid-way in the line. Many fans flew from across the globe (including myself) to get a glimpse of the showrunners, cast & crew, and a unique slice of the pie into Voltron Season 8's trailer.

The excitement was unlike anything I'd ever experienced before in a fandom. It was extremely thrilling, the trailer was outstanding, and Season 8 wasn't too far away.

First shown at New York City Comic Con 2018, get a look at the #Voltron production team's take on the upcoming final season of Voltron Legendary Defender, streaming on @Netflix tomorrow!

Then Season 8 dropped on Netflix... December 14th, 2018.

It was jarring. There were plot points that made no sense, obvious edits to scenes, censorships like a One Piece 4Kids dub, characters cut and pasted into scenes, and storylines were slapped together like a messy sandwich. And it was incredibly obvious too.

The fandom noticed and reacted accordingly - asking questions and demanding answers left, right, and centre. The showrunners responded through podcasts and statements on various levels.

The answer was clear... their vision wasn't the only vision going into the show:

"You know, as we sort of got through the process of premise, script, it went all the way down the line. It got storyboarded. And then at some point, you know, we received pushback from the studio and you know, we were sort of a little confused, like, “hey, how did it go, like, so far down the line before we received pushback?” And you know, this is not like a, like, a vilifying of DreamWorks or anything, like, every exec that we ever interacted with was, it was like, “hey, we understand why you want to tell this story. We understand where you’re coming from. It’s a little bit bigger than that. You know, there’s-there’s other, sort of, controlling parties with Voltron which makes it unique. It’s not just a DreamWorks-owned property.” And it just–I think logistically it just got really, really weird."

Joaquim Dos Santos - Afterbuzz TV interview. Source: https://dragonofyang.tumblr.com/post/183820127648/abtv-mar-4-transcript

---

Fans promptly started a petition two days later to release the original Season 8. THAT'S how obvious the editing was and how obvious the deterred, original vision had become.

As a disappointed fan and someone who studied media analysis intrinsically for university, I did try to rewatch back then, and it was painful to watch. What happened? There were layers of context on the cutting room floor and scenes didn't make sense. Hell, each episode title always has a double layered meaning, and even those layers were stripped from the core of the episodes for the most part. This left fans to say, "Whaaaaat is going ON?" The entire fandom was hurt by what had occurred.

The cast & crew that were also unaware of these story changes were also quite hurt, too. To make it more apparent, the showrunners were pretty open on speaking about leaving the project as well on the Buzzfeed Aftershow Podcast, but they simply couldn't:

LM: It’s not-it’s not just like, “Oh I can’t afford my mortgage!” You know, we have a crew that we care about we brought onto this show. If we abandoned them, we-we don’t know what’s in store for them. We don’t know, do they get to stay on? Do they get to keep their jobs? Does someone else come on and then they’re working under someone else that they didn’t sign up for? Or–

JDS: Or they’re working under someone else that’s just gonna be like, “Alright, we’re just gonna finish the show and not really do right by the rest of it.”

Lauren Montgomery & Joaquim Dos Santos - Afterbuzz TV interview. Source: https://dragonofyang.tumblr.com/post/183820127648/abtv-mar-4-transcript

---

We all wanted answers, and sure, some members of the team did speak up - but it didn't provide clear answers on what was the go with Season 8 being edited so far into post-production.

Now, this blog isn't dedicated to restoring Season 8 to it's original format (that would be lovely, but we have to be realistic - it has been 7 years and no google drives of the original season 8 have dropped so far). No, no.

That might happen (I've got a positive mindset on it - someone has to have a back up copy on some hard drive somewhere), or maybe it will be released... in a green sock reality.

Rather, this blog is dedicated to all the fans (new & old) whom want a sense of closure to as to why their favourite show on Netflix from 2016-2018 dropped the ball so hard for Season 8.

Not thinking much of it, I had posted a twitter thread detailing how the ending with all the lions flying off looked a little odd.

...And so, I received an anonymous inbox on New Years Day, 2025

This DM... was the start to an unravelling of webs and a rewatch that crumbled immediately. The cracks were all there.

I rewatched Season 8 with this information at hand with a few of my closest online friends, and we were shocked at how much there was to uncover. We were absolutely FLOORED by what was found, including incredible pieces of evidence from the fandom itself.

Now... Why does this matter? It's been YEARS and I'm sure we're not the first to uncover some pieces of information (See the #FreeVLDS8 movement - so, so many good finds there as a foundational point of reference).

Some of what we've uncovered in these Uncharted Regions has NOT been covered by the fandom before, nor does it scratch the surface of what's been found as of yet.

Welcome to the Uncharted Regions of Voltron Season 8.

Our aim for this meta is to acknowledge the following with detailed evidentiary support: 1. The editing of multiple episodes & scenes.

From there, we will look at the alleged changes: 2. Plot points & scenes that may or may not have had cuts. 3. Providing official-style edited shots comparisons to portray how some scenes should've looked in the original Season 8. 4. Piecing each episode / episode orders together (as best as we can) 5. The original ending.

Cheers to the beginning of a new meta, a new hope, and a new perspective on what truly happened to Voltron Season 8.

(Allegedly; for entertainment purposes only)

The one thing I humbly request is PLEASE... No hate towards the showrunners, cast, crew, or the official Voltron IP holders. There's a lot that has changed culturally and intrinsically within the industry over the years and this outcome was not something they could simply control. Let's be adults, look at this open conversation with empathy and love, and respectfully, let's indulge in this topic with grace - your feelings, however, are incredibly valid when it comes to this meta and what we uncover, as there's many alleged finds that may shock the fandom.

Let the journey commence.

Check out my Twitter page for any and all updates in regards to this insanely detailed meta; including teasers and screenshots! Please and thank you.

#voltron #vld #macross theory #lotura #klance #allurance #voltron legendary defender #voltron s8 #vld s8 #season 8 #voltron meta #vld meta #meta introduction #uncharted regions

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xoxorealitygalore · 3 months ago

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Trust and Believe Masterlist

Roman Reigns x Black OC

summary: Keyshia and Joe had a seemingly perfect life together after marrying in 2010. However, as their careers grew, so did the strain on their relationship. When Joe cheats on Keyshia. The emotional fallout from the incident leaves their relationship hanging in the balance, with Keyshia questioning if they could ever recover from the betrayal.

Leati Joseph "Joe" Anoaʻi, better known by his ring name Roman Reigns, is an American professional wrestler and former football player, born on May 25, 1985. A prominent figure in WWE, Reigns currently performs on the SmackDown brand. Widely regarded as one of the best professional wrestlers in the world, he is renowned for his dominance in the ring, particularly his historic 1,316-day reign as the Undisputed WWE Universal Heavyweight Champion, which ranks as the fourth-longest world title reign in WWE history and the longest since 1988.

Keyshia Cynthia Anoaʻi (née Carter), born June 15, 1986, is an American singer, songwriter, and actress, best known for her soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. Dubbed the "Princess of Hip Hop Soul" by critics, Keyshia is one of the best-selling recording artists of all time, with an estimated 190 million units sold worldwide. Throughout her career, she has earned numerous accolades and a dedicated fanbase for her unique blend of R&B, soul, and hip hop.

In early 2004, Joe Anoaʻi and Keyshia Carter met and began dating, eventually marrying in October 2010. The couple has seven children together. Their first daughter, Josie, was born in December 2007, followed by their second daughter, Kayleigh, in June 2014. They later welcomed twin sons, Jonas and Kingston, in November 2016, and another set of twin sons, Jarvis and Kingsley, in March 2020. In January 2022, they added their third daughter and seventh child, Jovie, to the family.

Chapter One: Trust and Believe

Chapter Two: Trust and Believe II

Chapter Three: Trust and Believe III

Chapter Four: Trust and Believe IV

Chapter Five: Trust and Believe V

Chapter Six: Trust and Believe VI

Chapter Seven: Trust and Believe VII

Chapter Eight: Trust and Believe VIII

Chapter Nine: Trust and Believe IX

Chapter Ten: Trust and Believe X

Chapter Eleven: Trust and Believe XI

Chapter Twelve: Trust and Believe XII

Chapter Thirteen: Trust and Believe XIII

Last Updated March 31, 2025

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bsd-bibliophile · 5 months ago

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BSD-Bibliophile Japanese Literature & Bungou Stray Dogs Survey 2024

I am interested in knowing if BSD fans are reading the literary works by the Japanese authors who inspired the series. This is a short survey about Japanese authors and Bungou Stray Dogs. Everyone is welcome to take part in this survey, and feel free to share the link outside of Tumblr: https://forms.gle/ePiyqSCFRy4wvN9Z9

The survey will be open from November 15 - December 15.

Please fill out this survey even if you have not read any of the real authors’ works or have not watched/read Bungou Stray Dogs. Your responses are valuable and greatly appreciated.

If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to send me a private message through Tumblr or write them in the comment section of the survey.

If you are interested in viewing the results from past surveys, here are the results from 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023. You can also compare the results from the past two years on the BSD-Bibliophile Online Library Survey Results page.

Thank you to all those who participate!

#bsd-bibliophile #survey #japanese literature #bungo stray dogs #bungou stray dogs #bsd

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lotr-sesa · 5 months ago

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The Lord of the Rings Secret Santa 2024 prompt meme signups are OPEN!

So, it's that time of the year again: time to sign up for the Lord of the Rings Secret Santa exchange! Slash, femslash, het and gen; you can request it all, so why not join in?

Lord of the Rings Secret Santa has been going for twenty-one years, and we'd love to see you join us and keep the tradition going.

LotR SeSa has been a traditional exchange since its inception, but we continue to adapt and refine the exchange to best serve all participants. The exchange has been in the form of a prompt meme since 2020. If you are new to the format, AO3 has a helpful FAQ here.

This year's timeline (2024):

Prompt Posting: November 1st to 25th.

Claiming: November 26th to December 27th.

Collection Open for Posting: November 26th to December 27th.

All Fills Due: December 27th

You will be able to post up to 2 prompts, and we will do our best to make sure that at least one of your prompts is filled.

Please note that this is an FPFchallenge. (i.e. Fictional, not real people fiction/RPF.) We're always open to all the Peoples and Ages of Middle-earth, which means that characters from The Hobbit and The Rings of Power are welcome too!

The Rules (2024):

You will be able to post up to 2 prompts between November 1st and 25th, and we will do our best to make sure at least one of your prompts is filled.

Your fill is due December 27th 11:59 pm Pacific Time (you can check what that is in your time zone here). Please post it to AO3 (and nowhere else, until January 3rd).

As a matter of fairness, please make your story more than 750 words (1000 is better).

Signing up: the sign up form can be found here (or here if the main link gives you an error message). If you need help with signing up, please don't hesitate to contact the mods at lotrsesa[AT]gmail.com.

Once claiming has opened, please only claim a prompt if you plan on actually fulfilling your end of the bargain, and please only claim one prompt at a time. After you have completed your fill, you may claim a new one.

Claiming a prompt: use the "Claim" button next to the prompt you want to claim. (You can find open prompts under "Prompts" in the sidebar.) Several people can claim the same prompt. You can also claim a prompt without having submitted any of your own.

It's a good idea to join the LotR_SeSa LiveJournal community or the Dreamwidth community so you can keep track of any admin posts. You can also follow us here on Tumblr.

Have fun -- and spread the word! We appreciate each and every reblog. ❤️

#lotr sesa #tolkien #lord of the rings #the hobbit #fanfic #holiday prompt meme #fic exchange #fic prompts #ao3 exchange #lord of the rings secret santa #secret santa #jrrt #the rings of power #signups open #silmarillion fic #prompt meme

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37sommz · 6 months ago

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❁ : l'amour de ma vie . . .

✼. masterlist — taglist — request. ✼. genre: fluff. ✼. wc: 6k.

as much as michaela adores her sister, courtney, it's hard to find joy in leaving the year behind when courtney's love life is coming home for the first time. the new year brings michaela old friends in a brand new package.

✼. warnings: general language warnings. people in love.

✼. notes: look at me being consistent. she's a writer (for real this time!!) this one was genuinely so fun to write. don't know if courtney & daniel are endgame but it might be a cute little side plot for future storylines. literally sat at my computer googling 'what do australians eat' before giving up :)

000.⠀⠀DECEMBER 31, 2020 › Gold Coast, Australia.

The Sommers' kitchen of their Gold Coast home, was aflutter with movement. Michaela's hands moved swiftly as they chopped vegetables for the New Years' Eve party. The room filled with the aroma of marinating meats and baking cookies, a contrast to the typically aroma-less existence Michaela lived in her Turin apartment. She felt a gentle warmth spread through her, a comfort she hadn't experienced in a long time. Her mother, Miriam, hummed a song Michaela couldn't recognize while stirring a pot of chili on the stove, occasionally adding a pinch of this or that from the spice rack.

Courtney, phone clutched tightly in hand, couldn't contain her excitement as she danced around the kitchen island. Her laughter was high-pitched and infectious, causing even the stern-faced Miriam to crack a smile. "Okay, okay," Courtney said, her thumbs typing away on the screen, "He's definitely on his way. Should be here any minute."

Michaela, her knife hovering over a cucumber, raised an eyebrow. "Who is this mystery boyfriend that's got you all giddy?" she teased.

Courtney giggled, her cheeks flushing. "You'll see," she sang, sidestepping her sister's question.

Michaela couldn't resist the bait. She set down the knife and leaned closer, curiosity piqued. "Is he from around here? Did you swipe right on some guy who got rich after high school?"

Courtney rolled her eyes dramatically, her thumbs still tapping out messages. "Don't be nosy Mick," she hummed, her smile still embedded upon her face.

Miriam, noticing the playful banter between her daughters, decided to join in on the bit. "She's been like this all week, Michaela," she said with a knowing smile, "It's like watching a teenager fall in love all over again."

Michaela's curiosity grew. Courtney had always been the more serious of the two of them, her Master's Degree in Chemistry from the University of Sydney was proof enough of the trait. So, the thought of her sister being swept off her feet was both thrilling and slightly concerning.

"You're not bringing an eshay home again are you, Courtney?" Ella asked, a smirk playing at the corners of her mouth as she correctly used the Australian slang.

Ella Marshall had been Michaela’s closest friend since she was a teenager. The Brit was a classmate of Michaela’s when she first moved to England and they had stuck by each other’s side ever since. They didn’t get to see each other often with Michaela’s racing travels and Ella’s pursuit of her public relations degree, so the chance to share New Years’ together in Michaela’s childhood home was a welcome one.

Courtney rolled her eyes again, a sarcastic laugh leaving her mouth before flipping her younger sister’s friend off. Miriam scolded her daughter with a disapproving look, turning around just as Ella returned the gesture with one of her own.

The front door swung open and in stumbled their father, Tobias, with their uncle Travis and his wife Beena close behind, lugging a suitcase that was practically bursting at the seams. Quentin, their two-year-old son, was perched on Travis' shoulder, his eyes wide with excitement at the sight of all the new faces and smells.

"Look who decided to join us," Miriam said, her voice a mix of surprise and warmth as she wiped her hands on a dish towel and approached her brother-in-law and his wife. She kissed them each on the cheek before taking a suitcase from Travis' hand. "You're just in time to help set up."

Travis, with a mischievous twinkle in his eye, looked over at his wife and son. "It's a miracle we made it," he said, setting Quentin down gently on the tiled floor. "This little rascal had us chasing him around Heathrow."

Michaela couldn't help but laugh. "Sounds like he's got the racing gene," she quipped, winking at her young cousin. Quentin giggled and ran towards her, his chubby legs moving at a surprisingly fast pace for his age. She scooped him up in her arms, feeling the weight of his pure joy, and spun him around. As they twirled, she felt the stress of her breakup and the looming season melt away.

Travis, his Australian accent thick despite years away in London, nodded in agreement. "He's a little terror, that one," he said with a proud smile. "But we wouldn't have it any other way." Beena, ever the perfectionist, picked away the lint from her husband's shirt as he pulled her into his side.

Michaela felt a pang of nostalgia, looking at the love between her uncle and his wife, and the easy conversation between her parents. Her thoughts drifted back to Olivier, and she couldn't help but feel the easy nostalgia turn to sadness. Their breakup had been mutual, but the ringing in of the New Year made it feel much more final. Hearing the boisterous laughter of her cousin as he bounced between adults, she pushed the feelings aside, focusing on the laughter and chaos that filled the home.

"Courtney, can you grab the drinks from the fridge?" Miriam called out, her eyes never leaving her cooking.

"On it," Courtney said, separating from her phone for the first time since Michaela had arrived home hours ago.

Michaela took a moment to study her sister. Courtney had always been beautiful, with their mother's sharp features and their father's warm hazel eyes, but there was something different about her. A lightness in her step and a twinkle in her eye.

"I don't know what's gotten into her," she whispered to Ella as she planted a kiss on Quentin’s cheek, "But she's gone a little crazy, hasn't she?" Ella could only hum in response as she found herself caught up in entertaining the toddler in her friend’s arms.

Quentin giggled and leaned into Michaela, wrapping his arms around her neck. His chubby fingers played with the ends of her hair as she spun him around again, the room becoming a blur of color and laughter. As they stopped, Courtney reappeared, her phone glued back to her hand. Quentin reached out for the older of his pair of cousins, Michaela swiftly handing him over to her smiling older sister.

"So, what's the secret?" Travis asked, his gaze bouncing between Courtney and her phone. "I haven't seen you be this excited for anything ever." Beena looked over at the chemist with her husband's words, a knowing smile playing on her lips.

Michaela's eyes narrowed as she watched her sister's reaction. Courtney's cheeks flushed as she avoided eye contact with everyone, her giggle turning into a full-blown laugh. "You're all going to find out soon enough," she teased, her fingers poking at Quentin's full cheeks, receiving his loud giggles in return.

Travis glanced back at his wife, exasperated, as she chuckled in amusement. "Boyfriend?" She questioned out to Tobias who could only nod with a dramatic roll of his eyes. "She won't tell us who he is."

Michaela's curiosity was piqued even further. "Why not?" She asked, handing her father an iced tea before huffing loudly as she dropped down onto the couch next to him.

Courtney looked at her with a smug expression. "Because it's more fun this way," she replied, bouncing Quentin on her hip as she walked out of the kitchen, her phone chiming.

Michaela watched her go, feeling a mix of amusement and annoyance. Her mind raced with the possibilities of who this mystery man could be. "It better not be anyone I know," she murmured to herself.

"What was that, sweetheart?" her father asked, turning to her with a smile.

Michaela's cheeks heated. "Nothing," she said, sipping her tea to cover her embarrassment.

She didn't want to admit her fear that Courtney might be dating someone from the paddock, someone who could complicate their lives even more than they already were. But she couldn't shake the feeling that her sister's more frequent "innocent" trips to see her sister's races were not so innocent after all. Courtney had never particularly enjoyed the smell of burning rubber or the high-speed crashes that Michaela seemed to be enamored with.

The sound of a car engine approaching the house echoed through the house and Courtney's eyes lit up brighter than they had been all day. "He's here!" she squealed, bouncing an overjoyed Quentin on her hip before bolting to the door.

Michaela felt a strange mix of excitement and nerves. She had no idea who Courtney could be bringing home, but she knew her sister's taste was much different from hers. Courtney took off towards the driveway with her cousin still resting on her hip. Beena began to call after the excited 26-year-old but was quickly soothed by her tired husband.

"Let them have their fun," Travis said, his eyes never leaving his wife as he spoke.

Michaela nodded, taking in the warmth of the room as the anticipation grew. The engine grew louder until it was right outside the door, and she couldn't help but lean over the couch to get a peek through the window. She couldn't quite make out the identity of the tall figure with a dark mop of hair as he opened the door of his sleek G-Wagon. Her heart swelled for a moment as she watched him scoop up Courtney in a loving embrace that calmed Michaela's nerves. He turned to introduce himself to the suddenly timid toddler nestled in Courtney's arms, reaching out to lift him from his girlfriend's hip. Michaela felt the tension melt away from her shoulders. It was clear this guy—whoever he was—intended to treat Courtney and her family with kindness.

As Courtney and the mystery man made their way back into the house, the chatter grew more intense. The man looked up, catching her eye, and a jolt of recognition shot through her. It was Daniel Ricciardo. Her eyes widened and she sat up straight, her heart racing as she took in the sight of her sister's new love interest. Daniel was a friend, sure, but also a rival on the track. They had always maintained a close friendship, but the sight of him with Courtney was surprising to say the least.

"No fucking way," Michaela whispered under her breath as Daniel's eyes locked onto hers, the surprise etched deep into her features. She had seen the Australian driver in many different lights—behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car, in the media spotlight, and even at a couple of awkward dinner parties their teams had thrown—but never as a potential brother-in-law.

“Is that Daniel?” Ella trailed off, her almond eyes tracing over the tall figure and his dark hair.

Her father and his brother shared in Michaela's surprise, their eyes widening in recognition. Daniel had been a household name for the Sommers family, as every Australian driver before him had also been. But seeing him here, in their home, holding Quentin in his arms and he exchanged a sustained kiss with Courtney, was something none of them had expected.

The three finally made their way to the front door, Courtney swinging it open with an air of carefree happiness in her actions. Michaela felt the air leave the room as Daniel stepped into the house, Quentin in his arms, a sheepish grin on his face.

"Hi, everyone," Daniel said, his Australian accent thick and familiar. He looked around the room, his eyes lingering on Michaela before he nodded a greeting in her direction. "Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and all that jazz." He held Quentin easily in his right hip, his left hand balancing a six-pack of Tobias' favorite beer and a bouquet of Miriam's favorite flowers.

Miriam was the first to recover from the shock, a smile spreading across her face as she stepped forward to take the gifts. "Thank you, Daniel, you didn't have to," she said warmly, her eyes flickering between Courtney and Daniel, trying to gauge the depth of their relationship from his gesture.

"Couldn't resist," Daniel said, winking at Quentin, who was now playing with his dark curls hair.

Michaela's brain was racing. Courtney and Daniel? She had known that Daniel had a soft spot for her sister, but she had never seen it manifest into anything more than casual flirting and banter at the races. The sight of him holding Quentin and the ease with which he slipped into their family setting was surprisingly natural.

"Well, look who the cat dragged in," Travis said, his voice booming with a mix of surprise and good-natured teasing. Daniel let out a light-hearted chuckle as he carefully placed Quentin on the ground. He then warmly accepted the greeting, firmly clasping hands with Travis in a traditional masculine gesture. As they greeted each other, Travis gave a friendly pat on the back to the Renault driver.

"You alright, mate?" Daniel asked the day trader, a member of Michaela's family he had gotten to know quite well over two years.

Michaela felt a knot in her stomach as she watched Daniel interact with her family members. He greeted Beena, a respectful kiss to her cheek as he casually recalled the editorial she had been working on the last time he saw her in Silverstone. When he greeted Michaela's father with a firm handshake, Tobias brushed it off, drawing him into a quick hug instead.

"Welcome to the madhouse," he said, his gruffness belying the affection he had for the younger more.

Michaela felt a strange mix of emotions—shock, curiosity, and a hint of protectiveness for her sister swirling in her gut. Courtney had always been the brainy one, the one who never stepped a toe out of line. To see her with someone like Daniel, a man who lived life as if it were a continuous party, was unsettling. But as she watched the way his eyes lit up when he talked to her sister, she couldn't deny the genuine connection between them.

"So, you two are..." she began, her voice trailing off as she searched for the right words.

Courtney beamed, her eyes sparkling. "Dating," she said, her voice filled with a giddiness that was unusual for the typically composed woman. Michaela's eyes nearly twitched as she watched her sister's manicured fingers reach for her boyfriend. Courtney leaned into the Perth native with a lovesick expression on her face, one hand wrapped around his bicep and another resting proudly atop his chest.

The room was silent for a moment, the only sound was the sizzling of meat on the stove and the distant pop of fireworks. It was Miriam who broke the silence. "Well, it's about time you told us," she said, her voice filled with a motherly warmth. "We've been waiting for you to bring home someone special for ages."

Courtney blushed, looking down at the floor, while Daniel's grin grew wider. "It's been a bit of a whirlwind," he admitted, glancing down at Courtney who was now clutching his hand tightly. "But she's worth every second of it."

Michaela couldn't argue with that. Her sister looked happier than she had seen her in years. The way Courtney leaned into Daniel, the way he looked at her with such affection—it was clear this was more than just a casual fling.

"Well, come on in," Miriam said, breaking the silence with a warm smile. "Let's get you something to drink."

Michaela couldn't help but watch as Daniel stepped further into the house, his arm casually draped around Courtney's waist. She had seen him charm sponsors, journalists, and fans alike with his easy-going manner, but this was different. This was personal, and she wasn't sure how she felt about it.

As Miriam led the way back into the kitchen, the sound of her sandals clicking on the tiles, Daniel looked over his shoulder at Michaela. "Surprise," he mouthed with a wink.

Michaela felt her cheeks heat up as she nodded, still processing the revelation. Courtney had always been the more cautious of the two, and to see her so openly affectionate with someone was a shock. As they all moved back into the kitchen, she couldn't help but feel a bit like an outsider in her own home. The conversation between her family and Daniel grew more relaxed as they discussed the couple's relationship, leaving her feeling slightly left out.

"I'll be right back," she murmured to her father, who simply nodded with a gentle squeeze to her shoulder, and Ella whose attention was planted firmly on the surprised couple. Michaela excused herself from the room, needing a moment to collect her thoughts, to make sense of the new dynamics that were unfolding.

Michaela stepped out onto the porch, the balmy Gold Coast evening air wrapping around her. The scent of barbeque and chlorine from the neighbor's pool mingled with the distant smell of the ocean, reminding her of childhood summers spent at this very house. She leaned against the railing, taking in deep breaths. The sound of the waves crashing against the shore provided a soothing backdrop to the rush of emotions running through her mind.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the soft thud of the kitchen door closing behind her. Daniel's footsteps approached and she felt his presence before she saw him. He leaned next to her, looking out over the well-manicured lawn that led to the beach.

"I know it's a surprise, Mick," he began, his tone sincere. "But I promise, I'm not here to mess with Courie's head or anything. I really like her." The casual nickname, one only Courtney's closest friends used, slipped out of Daniel's mouth with an ease that only increased the pounding of Michaela's head.

Michaela turned to face him, her expression a mask of skepticism. "You know what you're doing, right?" she asked, her voice a mix of protectiveness and curiosity. "Courie's not exactly the grid bunny type."

Daniel chuckled, leaning back against the railing. "I know, and that's what I like about her." He took a moment to survey the view, his eyes lingering on the horizon where the sky was beginning to lighten with the promise of a spectacular New Year's sunset. "She's got depth, you know? Makes me think twice about shit just so I don't embarrass her."

Michaela couldn't help but smile at that. Her sister had always had a way of making people want to be better. "So, how did this happen?" she asked, gesturing between the two of them.

Daniel shrugged, a boyish grin spreading across his face. "We just sort of clicked," he said, his eyes shifting towards Courtney as she chatted with Beena, Ella, and Miriam in the kitchen. "It started out as friends, you know, just catching up at races, flirting just to flirt. But she's got this... I don't know, this spark that just makes you want to be around her."

Michaela studied him, looking for any signs of deceit or insincerity, but she found none. At that moment, she knew that her sister had chosen well. Despite the initial shock, she felt a sense of relief wash over her. Maybe this was what Courtney needed—someone to challenge her—to bring out the side of her that was hidden under layers of academic seriousness and family responsibility.

"Well, don't let me keep you from her," she said, pushing off the railing. "You guys have a lot of catching up to do. I know she just got back from that big conference in Singapore." When Daniel failed to stifle a laugh, Michaela stopped to eye him skeptically.

"What?" She muttered, unamused.

"You're telling me you didn't know she was going to see me?" Daniel said, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "I picked her up from the airport, you know."

Michaela's eyes widened. "No, I had no idea," she replied, trying to keep the surprise out of her voice. The revelation that their relationship was more serious than she had thought made her feel even more protective. "But I'm happy for her, for you both." She meant it. Despite her reservations, she knew Courtney was capable of making her own decisions.

Daniel's grin grew. "Thanks, Mick. I know we're both a bit... unexpected, but it works." He leaned in, his voice dropping to a whisper. "And just between us, I'm kind of relieved you're cool with this. It would really suck if you didn't approve when I've already told her I love her."

Michaela's eyes went wide, and she slapped his arm. "What?" she hissed, half-laughing. "Shut up, how long did it take you?"

Daniel nodded, his cheeks reddening slightly. "I might have jumped the gun a bit," he admitted, a sheepish look on his face. "But she's just..." he trailed off, his gaze drifting back to the kitchen where Courtney was now helping Miriam prep the table for the meal.

Michaela felt a twinge of something in her chest—envy, perhaps? She had always been so focused on her career that she had never allowed herself to truly open up to someone the way Courtney had with Daniel. The sight of her sister in love was both beautiful and unsettling. It was a reminder of what she had given up to pursue her dreams.

"She's everything to me," Daniel finished, his brown eyes glazing over for a moment as he watched Courtney approach the sliding door. The sight of him looking at her sister like that, with pure adoration, was something new to Michaela. She had only ever seen that look on her parents' faces, a look both heartwarming and disconcerting.

"Well, don't fuck it up," she said, her voice softer than she had intended.

Daniel chuckled, turning to look at her with a knowing smile. "I won't," he promised, his hand resting on her shoulder. "Your sister's got a killer disappointment face."

Michaela rolled her eyes, shoving him playfully. "That's not what I meant and you know it," she said, but her voice held no malice. The tension between them had dissipated and she found herself smiling back at him.

"I know," Daniel replied, his eyes still on Courtney. "But seriously, I'm going to make sure she's happy. She deserves it."

Michaela nodded, unable to argue with that. She knew that underneath Daniel's golden retriever persona was a genuine heart. He had been there for her countless times during the tough moments of her career, offering advice and a shoulder to lean on when things got too heavy.

They both turned as Courtney and Ella stepped out onto the porch, Courtney’s eyes searching for Daniel while Ella’s held concern for Michaela. Courtney looked beautiful, with her hair down and a flowing dress that caught the light just right. When she saw her boyfriend, she beamed, their hands involuntarily reaching for each other as if controlled by a magnetic force.

"Everything okay?" she asked, her gaze flitting between Daniel and her sister.

Michaela nodded. "Yeah, just catching up," she said, her voice lighter than it had been moments ago.

"Good," Courtney said, stepping closer to Daniel. "I didn't mean to keep you waiting."

Michaela felt a pang of something she couldn't quite identify—it wasn't jealousy, but a strange sense of displacement. She had always been the one who knew all the details of Courtney's life, the one her sister turned to for advice. Now, here was Daniel, fitting into their lives so seamlessly, with secrets of his own. She pushed the feeling aside, reminding herself that it was her sister's happiness that mattered.

"That's okay, hon," Daniel murmured, pulling Courtney back into his side with a shared smile.

When Ella silently pretended to gag behind their backs, Michaela rolled her eyes dramatically as they became lost in each other's gaze. "Okay," she huffed, pushing herself off the railing behind her. "We’ll go help Mum and leave you too alone."

Courtney giggled as Daniel wrapped an arm around her waist, his eyes never leaving hers. "Thanks," she called after her retreating sister, her voice filled with affectionate teasing. "We'll be back in a minute," she hummed, her eyes still focused on Daniel's.

Michaela's heart warmed at the lovesick tone in her older sister's voice though the moment was quickly shattered in typical Daniel fashion with a cheeky, "We're gonna make out for a little bit."

Michaela and her best friend groaned with a hint of genuine disgust as Courtney could only giggle in response. She turned to head back inside, shaking her head.

The sound of their laughter followed her into the kitchen, where Miriam and Beena were busy setting out plates and silverware. She felt a strange sense of familiarity wash over her as she took in the scene—it had been so long since she had been part of their domestic routines. Despite the chaos of her career, the comfort of her family's warmth remained unchanged.

The evening rolled into night, and the party grew louder and more festive. The smell of BBQ filled the air as additional guests spilled onto the patio, their laughter and chatter blending with the distant pops of fireworks. Daniel had fit into the celebration so well that it was as if he had always been a part of their family gatherings. He had even charmed the toughest critic—Michaela's grandmother—who couldn't resist his charm and his genuine interest in her stories Michaela had heard about a million times.

Michaela found herself watching Courtney and Daniel from a distance, the way they interacted with each other, the way they shared a secret language of looks and smiles that she hadn't noticed before. It was clear that their relationship was more than just a fleeting attraction—there was a bond between them, a quiet strength that seemed to anchor them amidst the whirlwind of their lives. Daniel seemed to anticipate Courtney's next move throughout the night, casually handing her a napkin or a salt shaker before she could ask for it with a soft peck to her forehead and a whisper of an inside joke.

The party was in full swing, and the family had moved into the living room to watch the countdown on the television. Quentin, now sleeping soundly in Courtney's arms, had been the life of the party, dancing to the music and playing with the confetti that littered the floor. As the clock struck midnight, everyone shouted their goodbyes to 2020 and welcomed the New Year with a chorus of cheers and the popping of champagne bottles. The sound of glasses clinking and kisses on cheeks filled the air.

Michaela couldn't help but feel a pang of loneliness as she watched her sister and Daniel share a passionate kiss in the corner, their love on full display. She had never felt like this before, not even when Olivier had been so distant when they were together. Her thoughts were interrupted by a gentle tap on her shoulder.

"You okay?" Ella’s voice was a soft rumble in her ear. She turned to find her friend’s concerned eyes searching hers.

Michaela forced a smile. "Yeah, just tired," she said, taking a sip of her champagne. Ella had become friends with Michaela in a similar fashion. An introvert lost in her thoughts as she sat alone before an extrovert forced her to open herself up, Michaela knew she could see right through her facade.

"You know, you're not alone, right?" she said, her hand coming to rest on her shoulder. "You don't need to be with that arsewipe to be loved. We're all here for you."

Michaela nodded, feeling a lump form in her throat. "I know," she replied, her voice thick with unshed emotion. "It's just... different now. Everything's changing."

Ella squeezed her shoulder. "Change isn't always all bad, Mick," she said, her own eyes misting over with emotion. "Look at you—Miss McLaren. You've come a long way from giving those boys night terrors in your go-kart."

Michaela chuckled, the memory bringing warmth to her chest. "Yeah," she said, looking around at her family, "But it's weird, you know? Courie's always had her head in books and now she's got Daniel Ricciardo whispering shitty jokes in her ear."

Ella laughed, taking a sip of her drink. "Well, Daniel’s not the worst person in the world for Courtney to be dating," she said, her eyes lingering on the couple across the room. "Remember when your Mum's sister started dating that comedian after her divorce?"

Michaela snorted, the memory of her aunt's unexpected romance bringing a smile to her face. "Yeah, I didn’t even know she could smile," she said, her gaze drifting back to her sister and Daniel.

As the party wound down and guests began to say their goodbyes, the family gathered around the kitchen table, the warm light from the pendant lamp casting a glow over their tired but happy faces. Courtney, now yawning, shifted Quentin in her arms, his body rigid with sleep.

"I can't believe we're already into 2021," Courtney said, her voice filled with wonder. "Feels like just yesterday we were all freaking out about Y2K."

Michaela's father scoffed in disbelief at Courtney's misguided reminiscing. "You were five years old, what do you remember about Y2K?"

Courtney shot him a playful glare. "I remember enough to know it was a big deal, Dad," she slurred, and the room was filled with laughter.

Michaela watched the exchange with a smile, feeling a strange mix of nostalgia and anticipation. Her own future looked so different now—both personally and professionally. She had a new team, new challenges, and now, a new dynamic in her family. As the night grew quieter and the last guests trickled out, she found herself sitting on the porch with Daniel, Courtney, and Ella, the warm breeze carrying the faint scent of fireworks and the distant murmur of the ocean.

"So," Ella began, her voice a bit tipsy from the champagne, "What's the deal with you two? How long have you been keeping this a secret?"

Courtney's cheeks turned a rosy shade as she met her sister's gaze. "August?" She hummed, turning to Daniel for confirmation. He nodded with a knowing smile. "Yeah, since Barcelona, actually."

Michaela's eyes widened. "Barcelona?" She repeated, trying to recall the race weekend. It had been a pretty good one for her, finishing 6th after having qualified 11th. "How did I miss that?"

Courtney and Daniel shared a knowing smile. "It was the weekend you had that big meeting with Ferrari," Courtney said.

Michaela nodded as she remembered that initial meeting with Mattia Binotto. The one where he reassured her that Ferrari was keeping their options open for 2021. The meeting before he completely shattered all her dreams just two months later in Imola.

"I had a layover in Spain and just... decided to surprise him."

Michaela couldn't help but chuckle at the image of her sister, the meticulous planner, pulling off a spontaneous rendezvous. "So, what happened?" she questioned, genuinely curious.

"Well," Daniel began, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper, "Your sister showed up at my hotel room with nothing but a bottle of wine and a goofy grin."

Michaela playfully smacked him on the arm. "That's enough," she protested, though the corners of her mouth twitched with amusement. Courtney rolled her eyes.

"You know what we mean," Ella said, poking the older of the sisters in the side. "How did it all start?"

Daniel leaned back in his chair, his eyes thoughtful. "It's hard to tell," he admitted. "We've known each other for a while, obviously. But it was just... one of those moments where everything makes sense."

Michaela nodded, understanding that feeling all too well. Her own career had been built on moments like that—instances of clarity and purpose that had propelled her to where she was today. "So, what's the plan now?" she asked, looking at the couple.

"Well, I finally convinced her to take one of my Renault polos," Daniel said, his voice filled with contentment. "But I'm hoping she'll join me on the European leg of the season."

Courtney blushed even more deeply, and Michaela felt a twinge of happiness for them. Despite her initial surprise, she couldn't deny that they made a good pair—both strong-willed, but with a tenderness that seemed to bring out the best in each other.

"You guys are going to be a nightmare at the races," Michaela teased, her voice filled with affection. "Everyone's going to know."

Courtney looked at Daniel, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Maybe that's the plan," she said, a smirk playing at the corner of her mouth.

Ella groaned dramatically. "Please tell me you two won't be wearing matching outfits," she said, her tone half-joking, half-horrified.

"Oh, you know it," Courtney quipped, her voice filled with playful spite. "It's going to be a sea of that god-awful yellow and black." Michaela laughed, shaking her head.

"And I’ll have that atrocious papaya car to look at," Ella muttered jokingly, taking another sip of her drink.

The conversation grew more comfortable, the three of them discussing their upcoming travels and the excitement of the new season. Despite her initial skepticism, Daniel had managed to charm his way into her good graces, and she found herself warming to the idea of him being a part of her family's life.

As the night grew late and the party wound down, Daniel and Courtney eventually disappeared upstairs, leaving Michaela to sit on the porch swing with her best friend and her mother, the three of them lost in thought as they watched the last few fireworks light up the night sky. Miriam reached over to grab her hand, giving it a comforting squeeze.

"You know, I never thought I'd say this, but I'm happy she chose him," Miriam said, her gaze still on the distant explosions of color. "He's a good man. And he makes her happy."

Ella nodded, the swing creaking gently beneath them. "Yeah," she murmured, her voice a little thick. "They do seem good together."

Miriam leaned closer, her eyes searching her daughter's face. "And what about you, darling? How are you holding up after everything with Olivier?"

Michaela took a deep breath, the cool night air brushing against her cheeks. "I'm okay, Mum," she said, her voice steady. "It's been a tough few months, but I've got a great season ahead of me with McLaren. That's all I need to focus on."

Miriam studied her for a moment before nodding. "You know, sweetheart, love isn't just about the big moments," she said softly. "It's about finding someone who supports you in your dreams and makes you happy in the quiet moments too."

Michaela's eyes searched her mother's, finding a well of wisdom that she had missed. "I know," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's just... different without him, that's all."

Miriam leaned in and kissed her on the forehead. "You're stronger than you think," she assured her. "You've come so far, and I know you'll find someone who loves you just as fiercely as you deserve."

Michaela swallowed the lump in her throat. She squeezed her mother's hand and felt the warm embrace of her best friend’s arms wrap around her, a rush of love and gratitude. "Thank you, guys," she said, her voice small. "I just hope I don't screw it up when I do."

Miriam tilted her head, her eyes filled with warmth and understanding. "You won't," she said firmly. "You're a Sandile. We don't screw up love, we just take our time to find it." Michaela smiled at her mother's use of her maiden name.

The porch light cast a warm glow over the three women, creating a warm bubble as the rest of the house grew quiet. "I know it's hard to imagine now, but love has a way of finding you when you least expect it," Miriam continued. "Look at Travis and Beena. They've been through hell and back, and they're still madly in love."

Michaela nodded, taking a moment to reflect on her mother's words. The thought of finding someone who truly understood her, and who could handle the demands of her career without feeling overshadowed or left behind, was something she hadn't allowed herself to dream about for a long time. But watching Courtney with Daniel had sparked a hope within her, a hope that maybe, there was room for love in her fast-paced world.

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