#alright! too much coffee for me! gonna take a lap!

[reysdriver]

okay, just thinking about some celebrity daring to hit on sirius and he's like "bitch??" and then immediately runs to tattoo reader's name (VERY BIG) on the left side of his chest, right over his heart! and since he takes off his shirt at every show, everyone can enjoy the view (reader is also taken by surprise, she gets very horny if you ask me

Sirius shows the world where his passion lies — rockstar!sirius x reader fluff

warnings: allusions to sex, very suggestive

words: 1k

a/n: I love this request so much omggg that is such a Sirius thing to do (I could see James doing it too actually) but it's just PERFECT. I did change it a bit by making reader know about it beforehand but I hope it's still good! Also horny part 2 maybe... idk yet

You came back to the hotel room with coffee in your hand, a bag of pastries in your purse, and a tabloid magazine under your arm. 

With The Marauders on tour, you’ve been living out of suitcases with your boyfriend and your friends for the last couple weeks. You’ve all been sharing sleep schedules with wolves, staying up until dawn and sleeping later than everyone else in whatever city you were staying in. 

That’s precisely why you left to grab breakfast at eleven in the morning and Sirius was still fast asleep. 

By the time you got back, you walked in to find Sirius wide awake, but still in bed, tangled in the bedsheets. 

“Good morning, love.” Sirius said, shirtless with one hand behind his head. 

“It was a good morning.” You teased, tossing him the magazine. “Then I saw you in the news.”

“Me?” He feigned surprise. It wasn’t at all uncommon for Sirius to be in the news or the tabloids, but it was usually for something he did, not some pop princess who writes songs you get tired of after two listens. 

Sirius sat up and scanned the front page, curious as to what was going on. 

Mary Macdonald makes her move on rock star Sirius Black; New musical romance in the works?

The caption was sitting atop a picture of the popstar in question onstage at a concert, her crop top showing off a fake tattoo on her abdomen with text reading Reserved 4 Sirius Black alongside an arrow pointed down. 

“Oh, come on.” Sirius laughed, throwing the paper to the end of the bed. “This is what got you all bothered?”

You set your purse down and brought the coffee and pastries over to your boyfriend. 

“Yes, so bothered I almost didn’t buy you a coffee. Be happy I did, though.” 

“Of course I’m happy. I love you, doll.”

Sirius lifted the sheets and held out a hand to beckon you into the bed with him. You obey reluctantly, putting on a dramatic pout as you crawled in with your boyfriend and straddled his lap. 

“You know you’re the only one for me, right?” He whispered, hands tracing along your hips. 

You combed your fingers through his perfect hair, a frown on your face. 

“Tell that to the singer-songwriter superstar announcing to the world that you’re the only person she wants between her legs.” 

Sirius smiled in a way that made it painfully obvious he had something stupid to say. “Love, there are millions of people who feel that exact way about me. Including you, I would hope.”

Damn, this man was exhausting. And of course you loved him for it. 

You rolled your eyes and tried to get out of the hotel bed, though your attempt was foiled by Sirius holding you back. 

You let him get his way, but gave him an unimpressed look that did not match his badly-stifled grin. 

“I’ll take care of it, alright?” He said, not elaborating at all. 

You shook your head, hoping he would say more about whatever PR stunt he had in mind. 

“Siri, what are you gonna do?”

“Don’t you trust me?” Sirius said softly. He took your hand in his and slid your palm gently across his bare chest. “I’ll take care of it, don’t you worry.”

✦✧✦✧✦

The next concert the band had was a few days after you first saw that magazine. You stood in the wings of the concert stage, just before the show started. 

All the other band members had gone onto the stage and started setting up their instruments and playing the long intro to the opening song; it was just Sirius left, saying goodbye to you before he started performing and you made your way to the VIP section. 

“You’re gonna do great, Siri.” You told him sincerely. 

He winked at you, cocky as ever. 

“I always do.” 

Sirius then softened and masked your tone. He held your upper arms and pressed a kiss to your forehead. 

“I’ll let them all know I’m yours, and only yours.”

“They’re gonna go crazy.” You smiled.

“Damn right, they will. I’ll see you out there.”

Sirius gave your ass a playful smack before jogging out to the stage before he missed his cue, so you went down to your reserved space in the audience to see the band play from the best angle. 

The audience lost their minds when Sirius ran onto the stage, per usual, screaming and shouting when all he’s done so far was enter. 

But once Sirius started singing, the crowd noticed something off about the performance—Sirius was wearing a whole shirt for the first time throughout this tour. None of the band acknowledged it, of course; they were too busy playing music to be worried about what Sirius was wearing tonight. 

Once the song finished, Sirius took a moment to say hello to the audience. After all the routine talking points—you know, your ‘how’s everybody doing?’ and whatnot—Sirius found it was the right time to say what he wanted to say. 

“I saw a magazine cover the other day, with my name on it.” He started. “And not for the usual reasons. Mary Macdonald, I think it was…”

Many audience members went wild at the mention of her name, either because they were fans of her music, or they knew exactly what headlines Sirius was referring to. 

“That was definitely an odd thing to wake up and see. But I’ve thought about it because it’s been everywhere, and I just have one thing to say about that.”

Instead of responding verbally, Sirius pulled off his black tank top with a smooth, swift motion, revealing his newest tattoo. 

Your name was printed loud and clear on his chest, right over his heart. He got it done the day the Mary Macdonald pictures came out, and he was ecstatic to show it off to the world. 

It caused quite a reaction, but you weren’t listening to the audience to know what they were even thinking. All you cared about was Sirius up on that stage, blowing you a kiss as The Marauders started to play the next song.

[ratatatastic]

i cant get over his face as he said this its like he just learned his mom trusts his baby brother more than she trusts him and he cant believe he has to listen to a fucking tween while moms away for the weekend. hell will be raised. hes not gonna forget this.

[pastryfication]

could you write something about oscar and his broken rib? maybe how you imagine how it happend, him going to the hospital to check it out, y/n taking care of him and being worried, him insisting to race,…

hope that helps with inspiration. you don‘t have to write everything from above just what you like

fortune in misfortune | oscar piastri

pairing: oscar piastri x gf!reader. note: i still can’t believe that he raced (AND WON???) with a broken rib so this was definitely fun to write. thank you for requesting it!! <3

you’re sitting on the couch, legs draped over oscar’s lap, when you notice him wince. it’s subtle, just a tiny flinch, but you catch it. you pull your eyes away from the movie and look at him, raising an eyebrow. "what’s wrong?"

oscar tries to shrug it off, offering a half-hearted smile. “nothing, just a little sore from training.”

you narrow your eyes, not convinced. “you sure? you don’t look fine.”

he chuckles, leaning in to kiss your forehead. “i’m okay, really. maybe i pulled something, but it’s nothing serious.”

you let it go for now, but the nagging feeling in your gut doesn’t disappear. he’s been home for a few days between races, and you’ve noticed he’s been moving a bit more carefully than usual. you figure he’s just being cautious—he’s got a big race in hungary coming up and doesn’t want to risk anything.

a couple of days later, you’re in the kitchen making breakfast when you hear a crash. rushing to the living room, you find oscar on the floor, holding his side and gritting his teeth.

“oscar!” you exclaim, dropping to your knees beside him. “what happened?”

he tries to laugh, but it comes out more like a groan. “tripped over my own feet… and then, well, the coffee table.”

your heart races as you help him up, his face pale with pain. “we’re going to the hospital.”

he starts to protest, but one look at your determined expression and he knows better than to argue. “okay, okay. but it’s probably just a bruise.”

you drive him to the hospital, anxiety bubbling in your chest. oscar tries to lighten the mood, cracking jokes and insisting that he’s fine, but you can see the discomfort etched on his face.

in the examination room, the doctor checks him over, sending him for an x-ray. you sit beside him, holding his hand, trying to mask your worry with a smile.

when the doctor returns, he frowns at the x-ray images. “well, there’s nothing obvious here, but given your symptoms, i’d like to do an ultrasound to be sure.”

oscar nods, though you can see a flicker of concern in his eyes. you squeeze his hand tighter.

a little while later, the ultrasound reveals what the x-ray didn’t—he’s got a small, hairline fracture in one of his ribs. the doctor explains it’s not too serious but could cause pain, especially with the physical demands of racing.

you feel a wave of relief mixed with fresh worry. “so what now? should he be resting? can he still race?” your questions tumble out faster than you can control them.

oscar gives you a reassuring smile, despite the obvious discomfort. “it’s just a small fracture. i’ll take it easy.”

the doctor advises some rest and pain management but doesn’t explicitly forbid racing. oscar seems almost relieved, but you’re still not convinced. “oscar, i don’t know… this sounds serious.”

“hey,” he says softly, turning to face you fully. “i’ll be careful. if it gets worse, i’ll pull out, okay? but right now, i’m feeling alright. it’s just a bit of pain.”

you know how stubborn he can be, and how much racing means to him. you want to make him stay home, keep him safe, but you also know he wouldn’t be happy with that.

over the next few days, you fuss over him—probably more than necessary, but you can’t help it. you make sure he’s comfortable, keep an eye on him whenever he moves, and remind him to take his pain meds. oscar endures it with a smile, teasing you gently about being so worried.

“you’re gonna wrap me in bubble wrap next,” he jokes one morning as you hand him a glass of water with his painkillers.

“don’t tempt me,” you reply, only half-joking. but you know you can’t keep him from going to hungary. it’s what he loves, and you can see the determination in his eyes.

the day before he’s supposed to leave, you sit together in bed, your head resting on his shoulder. “just promise me you’ll be careful.”

he kisses the top of your head, his voice soft. “i promise. and if it gets too much, i’ll stop. but i’ve got this, love. don’t worry too much.”

you nod, trying to believe it, but the worry still lingers in your chest. you just want him to be okay.

the next morning, you drive him to the airport, your hand gripping his a little tighter than usual. “text me as soon as you land, and call me if you need anything.”

oscar smiles, leaning in for a kiss. “i will. and i’ll be back before you know it.”

as you watch him walk into the terminal, you can’t shake the feeling of anxiety. but you trust him. he’ll be careful. he’s oscar, after all—strong, determined, and maybe just a little bit clumsy. and you’ll be here, waiting for him, ready to take care of him when he gets back.

[crushpunky]

actress!reader is worried about drew

masterlist | actress!reader masterlist

warning: mentions of disordered eating/extreme weight loss, proceed with caution and remember that food is fuel !!! 

Y/n sat out on the covered porch, a book in her lap and Charleston curled at her feet. The sunlight of the early morning peaked through the windows, the aroma of coffee filling the air. Drew sat opposite her, sprawled out on the sofa, his long legs dangling off the edge. His glasses perched on his nose in a way that always made y/n’s head spin as he flipped through a script. This quiet comfort was the usual way they began their day, climbing out of bed and making coffee before soaking in the tranquility of the morning.

“I’m gonna grab some breakfast, what do you want?” Y/n asked, closing her book and getting up with a groan. Drew looked up from his script, his sunken eyes raking over the way the light shone off y/n’s skin.

“I’ve got coffee, I’m alright.” Drew said, flashing a small grin before returning back to his script. Y/n sighed, placing her hands on her hips. He had been preparing for his new project, a Luca Guadagnino picture alongside Daniel Craig that supposedly “required” him to slim down. Drew was already a naturally lanky guy, often building on muscle for OBX, so the idea of losing even more weight seemed insane to y/n, but Drew insisted. She appreciated his commitment and ability to go “all in”, but as he began to lose more and more weight it seemed to be overkill.

“Drew.” Y/n said sharply, glaring harshly at Drew.

“Y/n.” Drew said back, mocking her tone playfully as he looked back up at her.

“What do you want for breakfast?” Y/n repeated, quirking one of her eyebrows. Drew sighed, placing the script down before sitting up and moving to face her. Y/n took a step forward, standing between Drew’s legs and grabbing onto his hands.

“I’m alright, baby. I promise.” Drew whispered, placing a kiss to y/n’s knuckles. As y/n looked down at him, she felt her stomach swirl at his sunken features and the way he was practically swimming in clothes that used to fit him like a glove.

“Drew, please.” Y/n said quietly, her eyes beginning to prickle with tears. As much as she tried to mask her fear as worry, she could feel herself begin to slip. The fact of the matter was that she was utterly terrified. Terrified of the way Drew was pushing himself, going so far just for some stupid, goddamn project. The boy she had fallen in love with, the curves and angles she knew like the back of her hand sinking into something almost unrecognizable as Drew lost more and more weight.

“Baby, hey, don’t do that.” Drew went to stand, his footing stumbling and body swaying for a moment before y/n forced him back onto the couch with a sob. It had become a more and more common occurrence, the bouts of dizziness or shortness of breath that made y/n’s heart break each time.

“Hey, I just got up too fast I’m—” Drew rambled.

“No, Drew, goddamnit!” Y/n shouted, ripping her hands out of Drew’s grip and wiping her eyes harshly. Drew’s eyes widened before hesitantly wrapping his hands around y/n’s torso, his touch featherlight. Y/n wasn’t one to raise her voice often, especially not at him, but the anger in her voice was glaringly apparent.

“I’m fucking tired of this, Drew! It’s ridiculous and—” y/n sobbed, “you’re scaring me. You look sick, Drew.”

Drew sighed, closing his eyes and resting his head on y/n’s stomach. She continued to cry, her body shaking as tears streamed down her cheeks in a way that made Drew feel nauseous. He smoothed his hands along her back, gently tracing the contours of her hips.

“This isn’t healthy.” Y/n whispered. Drew lifted his head to meet her glassy eyes, the fear and worry staining her face. He hated seeing her like this, the hurt on her features acting like a stab to the heart.

“Ok, ok.” Drew muttered, taking y/n’s hands gently as he nodded to himself. Sure, he had been in touch with a nutritionist and maybe he had been… neglecting some of their warnings and recommendations, but he knew this role was going to be big. He wanted to do this right. He wanted to prove to himself and others that he could do it, but was it worth the risks? Hell, was it worth the pain he was causing y/n? Certainly not. Nothing could ever excuse the anguish he was causing her, anguish he would kill anyone else if they were causing her.

“I’ll… slow down, okay?” Drew said, his thumb tracing along y/n’s knuckles gently. Y/n closed her eyes before pressing a kiss to the top of Drew’s head.

“Thank you.” She whispered, wrapping her arms around his shoulders. Drew’s arms snaked around her, pulling her flush to his chest as he stood again. He inhaled deeply, his hands curling into the t-shirt of his that hung off y/n’s body. He never thought he’d feel this way about someone else. Feeling so fiercely protective of and willing to do anything to avoid seeing them in pain. Feeling so in love that he’d do anything, anything, to see them happy… but here he was on the porch of their shared home, holding onto y/n so tightly as if he could lose her at any second.

“I love you, baby. I’m sorry I scared you.” Drew said gently, his fingers tracing lightly along the curve of y/n’s back.

“I love you, Drew. Please don’t scare me like that again.” Y/n said into the front of Drew’s shirt, her grip on his torso tightening. The two of them stood in the soft morning light for a moment, holding onto each other so tightly it was impossible to discern where y/n ended and Drew began.

“How about Claire’s, hm?” Drew said into y/n’s hair. Her grip on him loosened slightly, allowing her space to look up at him, her lips curling into a wide grin.

“That sounds good.” Y/n whispered, reaching up onto her tiptoes to press a kiss to the curve of Drew’s jaw.

[starboye]

pairing: ryan reynolds x male reader

request: Ryan Reynolds x Male reader smut where Ryan goes to sleepover at a friends house, and the friends son (Reader) keeps teasing him the whole time, when everyone is asleep Ryan sneaks into the readers room and fucks him 🙌

warnings: smut, face fucking, deep throat, age difference (reader is 20 ryan is his age), cursing, rough sex, slight degrading, pet names (really just good boy), breeding kink, teasing, lil daddy kink

a/n: can y'all tell i became an absolute slut with this???

you always had a crush on your dads friend aka ryan reynolds but you never ever acted on it, you were just to nervous to approach the man, his large stature and intimidating demeanor were just to much for you to handle, but tonight you were feeling especially confident, you put on you favorite pair of shorts that rose up a little to much on your ass and a tight shirt to show off your waist and torso.

the moment ryan walked through the door his eyes glued to your body, watching the way you ass would jiggle with every step you took and how your hips swayed as you walked "fuck" he thought to himself as he could feel his dick hardening "hey whats up man" your dad greets him "h-hey" ryan stammers, his eyes still glued to you.

"you alright" he questions "yeah im great" ryan replies finally stopping staring at you "well grab a beer and meet me in the living room, the games almost on" your dad says before walking to the living room, ryan makes his way into the kitchen where you are standing in front of the fridge.

"hey kid can you get me a beer" ryan asks with a slightly demanding tone "sure thing" you say in a chipper tone before opening the fridge and bending over to grab the beer, your ass inches away from ryans dick, he bites down on his lip at the wonderful sight in front of him, wanting to grab your ass so bad but he resists.

"here you go mr reynold" you say turning around and handing him the beer "thanks kid" he mummers walking away not wanting to stay any longer and risk grabbing you right there and fucking you till he came in your ass, you walked into the living room watched as your dad and ryan tuned into the football game "do you guys need anything" you speak up over the loud volume of the tv.

"yeah can you throw this away for me" your dad asks pointing at some beers, you walk over to the coffee table and pick up the beer cans before looking up to ryan "do you need anything mr reynold" you ask in a soft voice but with a hint of flirting, looking him deeply in the eyes as you lick your plump lips slowly.

"n-no im alright" ryan says trying to not get a boner but ultimately fails and puts a throw pillow over his lap after you walk away, after an hour or so your dad falls asleep on the couch and ryan makes his way to your room filled with one single purpose on his mind, to fuck you like the slut you act like.

you hear a knock at your door and get up to open it, as soon as you open it ryan makes his way in and kisses you, leading you too the bed before laying you onto it "you wanna be a slut right, so im gonna fuck you like one" ryan says deeply as he takes his pants and underwear off "strip now" he orders and you get up and strip completely naked.

"come here" he snaps his fingers and orders you to get in front of him, you follow orders and kneel in front of him, he slaps his thick cock against your cheek "open up that throat pretty boy" he says, and you open your mouth tongue out and await his dick, he leans your head back and spits into your mouth before sliding his dick into your mouth.

you struggle for a little but with some encouraging words from ryan you take it all the way down your throat, you nose deep in ryans pubes, inhaling every bit of his scent "yeah you're doing so well for me baby" ryan says throwing his head back, you watch as his muscles contort with all his movement, your eyes glossed with a layer of water from the brewing tears.

ryan pulls you off his dick after some time and you cough harshly "dont be to loud now, you wouldn't want your old man to hear me ruining you" he warns before sinking your mouth back on his dick, gagging and gurgling noises could be heard throughout the room as you could feel your throat get stretched out by ryans thick meat.

just before ryan cums he pulls out your mouth and tells you to get on the bed, you do as your told and get on the bed hands and knees with your back arched "good slut" ryan mutters "now youre gonna be really quiet while i fuck you right" ryan asks lining himself up with your hole "yes" you say desperately "yes what" he asks harshly slapping your ass "yes sir" you whine wincing at the pain.

ryan slides into you easily with the mess you made on his cock "yeah so tight for me" ryan says bringing your ass back and forth on his dick as you moan out, a loud moan escapes your lips and ryans harshly smacks your ass "what the fuck did i say" ryan questions in a rough voice turning your face to look at him "dont make a sound" you shyly say.

"right so since you dont wanna listen, dont make a single fucking sound at all" he orders shoving his underwear into your mouth as a makeshift gag "now take this dick like a good boy" ryan says as he resumes his hard pace, you drop your head onto the mattress and muffledly moan as you feel like your hole is getting ripped apart and soon after you cum all over the bed.

"came all over and you didnt even touch yourself, such a nasty slut arent you" he grunts watching you go dumb around his dick "and getting tighter is see, want this load so much, want me to impregnate you with my cum" he asks with a chuckle feeling you get tighter and tighter with each pound, you nod eagerly wanting his cum in you and after a few more thrusts ryan cums in you, load after load you could feel the cum spurt into your walls.

"call me later if you want some more" ryan says grabbing his underwear from your mouth and putting them on along with his pants and he walks back o the living room where he plops back onto the couch, cock still tingling a little from the rough fuck that will definitely leave you sore in the morning but at least you finally got to fuck your crush after many years.

[harrysfolklore]

Can you write an imagine of Harry inspired by that clip of Taylor playing call it what you want on the guitar in miss americana where he’s recording you as you play him the song you wrote for him plsss 🙏🏼

golden hour - hs

A HARRY FIC OMG??? this is really short but i needed to write a harry fic to get the creative juices flowing so thank youuuu for this request, i hope you like this!

MASTERLIST | MY PATREON

You sat cross-legged on the plush rug of your living room, your acoustic guitar resting comfortably on your lap. The late afternoon sunlight streamed through the windows, casting a warm, golden glow over the room. Harry was sprawled on the couch opposite you, looking cozy as ever in a green jumper and joggers.

"Are you ready?" you asked, glancing up at him with a mix of excitement and nerves.

"Absolutely, love," Harry smiled at you, "Why do you always get nervous when you're about to play a song for me. It's just me, love"

"Because," you began, running your fingers through the strings of your guitar, "It's a song I wrote about you, and It's really sappy."

"I love sappy," Harry's smile widened, a soft chuckle leaving his lips, "Especially when it's about us, or just you being a simp over me."

You rolled your eyes with affection, "I'm going to start singing before I completely regret it."

"Wait," Harry said before you could start, "Can I record you? It would be a cute memory."

"Of course you can, but don't leak it to TMZ," you joked and he grabbed his phone from the coffee table in front of him, opening his camera.

"I'll keep it just for us, promise." He adjusted himself on the couch, holding his phone up to get a clear view of you. "Alright, ready when you are, my love."

"Okay this is Golden Hour, take one from our living room," you said looking at the camera, "Let's go."

You took a deep breath and began strumming the opening chords of the song you had written your fingers danced across the strings with ease.

All that I know Is you caught me at the right time Keep me in your glow 'Cause I'm havin' such a good time with you

Baby, don't you know That you're my golden hour The color of my sky You set my world on fire And I know, I know everything's gonna be alright

You sang softly, watching as Harry's eyes beamed with happiness and amusement as he listened to the words pouring from your heart.

You kept on singing and playing your guitar, mouthing an "I love you" to Harry before reaching the final chorus, your smile as wide as his.

And when the song came to an end, you let the final chord hang in the air for a moment, and you looked up to see Harry, his expression one of pure adoration.

"That was... beautiful, love," Harry said and he stopped the recording and sat his phone down "You never cease to amaze me. I don't think I've ever felt this loved."

"Harry, stop," you set the guitar gently on the floor and covered your face, "You're going to make me cry."

Harry chuckled, moving from the couch to sit beside you on the rug.

"No need to hide, love. It's just me, remember?" he gently pulled your hands away from your face, holding them in his.

"I know, but still," you murmured, a small smile playing on your lips.

"Well, you should know that your song made me the happiest man alive," he said, leaning in to kiss your forehead. "You have no idea how much I love you."

"I might have an idea," you teased, pecking his lips quickly.

"Now, how about we make this a tradition? You play me a song every week. Deal?"

"Only if you promise to write a song for me too. It's only fair," you raised an eyebrow playfully.

"Oh, it's a deal, love. Just you wait. I'll write the sappiest song you've ever heard," he pecked your lips again, "Or what about the horniest song you've ever heard, huh? What do you prefer, sappy or horny?"

"Your horny songs are all about fruit anyway," you teased again, making him laugh, "I'm happy you liked the song, baby."

"I loved it," he said softly, pulling you into a warm embrace. "And I love you."

[elliebarker]

keepin’ it steady ( a. anderson )

category: gym-rat!abby x gf!reader blurb 

author’s note: inspired by this post…ty @iiseor, i don’t workout so all my knowledge for this post comes from those two guys on tt who do gym skits.

with hands tightly clasped behind her head– for better form or to keep her hands off you is debatable– your girlfriend, abby, began lifting her hips up and down, in crunch-like formation. only, this time she wasn’t using a weight. she had you sitting on top of her lap whilst she was exercising.

“quit moving,” abby said, in reply to you shifting our weight; trying to find a spot in which her pelvic bones were stabbing into your thighs.

“i’m trying the best i can abs.”

“it’s alright, sweetheart, just trying to make sure my reps are even,” she replied, “keepin’ it steady.”

“this good?” you say, adjusting your weight to around the middle.

“it's perfect.” abby slurred. and my wow, did that give you butterflies. yes, she might've said it solely to get you to stop moving, but there in the moment, hands on her chest, that was so goddamn intoxicating. you thought back to earlier this morning…the two of you had sat down for coffee and breakfast and abby had something on her phone she was pulling up for you.

“wouldn’t that be so cool?” you looked at her like she was insane. 

“you're telling me, you want me to be on top of you while you workout?” you asked, smirking at abby. 

“c'mon baby, please?” she begged.

“i don’t know…” you replied, “i think i might weigh too much. plus don’t you need to focus on the goals you're already lifting?”

“aw, baby,” she cupped your face, “nothing’s too heavy for me.” she boosted. “plus, you're the weight i need to be focusing on,” she said, winking at you. abby’s voice then dragged you out of your reflection to that morning

“you know you can take your hands off right?” abby snarked, ”you're not gonna fall, girl.”

“what?” you said, “oh,” lifting your hands off her chest and crossing them against your chest. abby finished her set, tapping you on your back– a signal to stand up– and then went to cool down, as you made your way to the locker room.

[heartfullofleeches]

Cat hybrid reader trying to feed on cow yandere in public?

[This is the brattiest reader I've ever written. (Mentions of lactation)]

"Thirsty...."

You despised the city. Nosy, overcrowded, and most bothersome of all - prevented you from obtaining what you loved most. Your caretaker had to run into town to picking something up from a supplier and brought you with them on the count of you being their emotional support. You were nestled together at their side on an outside bench at a coffee as you waited - position increasing your suffering tenfold.

At the angle you laid your face was perfectly cushioned by their fatty chest. Your cheeks rubs against the pads tapped over their leaking tits as you stir - wallowing in your misery. With how scarcely your lips left their skin, the cow had fundamentally became a milk factory. Beneficial on your end as well as theirs in most scenes, but this was not one of those times.

Your caretaker gently nudges you to the crook of their arm as they go to take the tray from the approaching barista - the rich scent of their cream assaulting your senses as rub at your ears - simultaneously pressing you further against their pillowy flesh.

"I know, it's my fault for taking you out in this weather. I'm so sorry, sugar - sit up so you can drink."

You scoot up as they offer you a cup, taking the drink and relishing the condensation dripping down its container. You assumed that comfort would spread once you finally took a sip, but the experience was quite the opposite. You tasted hints of milk, but sugar and cold coffee were unfortunately the dominating flavors of the beverage. The milk lacked the natural sweetness and creamy texture of their milk. Disappointed, you push the offending drink out of range - bleching as the taste lingers.

Your caretaker strokes your back as you sputter. "You didn't like it? Forgive me, Sweetheart, it's a latte so I thought you might... Is there anything else you want?"

Pouring the latte into a decorative plant, you slump back down on their chest, fangs teasing their nipple as you sob. "Milk...."

Your caretaker shutters. Their fragile heart, and heavy tits ache as your soft cries. Small dots seep through their shirt as the adhesive of their bandages loses grip due to all the fluid their producing which you lap at quizzically. "I can see if they'll bring you some to hold you off until we get home..."

Hunger flickers in your eyes - coarse tongue circling their puffy nipple as you reiterate. "milk."

They suck air through tight lips - digging at your shirt as you purr at the familiar taste. "Alright... We'll go to the bathroom and you can have a drink. That sound good with you?"

Too far... At the misguided go ahead, you yank their shirt over their chest - ripping off the bandages as you lower your lips to their milky tits. Their shirt falls over your face as you use both hands to massage their flesh, pumping more milk into your greedy mouth as you suckle. Your fangs scrap their nipple as the overflow becomes too much for you to swallow and you choke attempting to force it all down. The cow swats at your hands with no real force behind the blow, wiping at your chin as they take control from you.

"What have I told you about doing that... You're gonna make yourself sick.." They whisper- muttering softly as they craddle the back of your head as you slow to the tune of their gently rocking. "That's it... Just like that... What am I going to do with a trouble starter like you."

Love you like no other is what they'll do. So clingu, but that neediness was just what they adored. They weren't sure what they'd do, if they came home to an empty house and their arms free of claw marks given as you begged on your knees for more milk. Enabling you was a small sacrifice to pay for having you in their arms no matter how spoiled you might turn out to be.

Your caretaker pulls their jacket over you as more eyes wander towards your table, shielding you between their plush body and the couch cushions as someone approaches. You had started to drift off from all the milk you had consumed, and the warm summer sun beating down on you - at peace at last.

"Um... hello, I assume you're the one who purchased the catnip?"

"Yea... wanted to get my sweetheart something to relax them since longer trips make them antsy - but I think I'll be canceling that order."

[causenessus]

Congrats on 1k!!! Well deserved! May I request fluffiest of fluff of 🏠 with Kenma? Just like him and reader’s everyday life after becoming newlyweds or something

Thank you ☺️

domesticity. | kozume k.

kenma x f! reader

written in 2nd pov

one word prompt from 1k followers event: 🏠 -> domesticity

"let's skip to the wedding, let's stay past the ending, i'm gonna be good to you <3" from let's skip to the wedding by eyedress

word count: 1.1k

notes: fluff!! and written as headcannons i hope that's alright <3 it was just kind of the way my brain immediately took the request. thank you so much for requesting! this was adorable to write i hope u enjoy <3 also, a mention of 10 cent bag rule that some states do lol. just wanted to explain it beforehand so no one is confused, it's just something mandatory some states do where either you bring a resuable bag or pay 10 cents for a plastic bag! also sorry for any weird formatting, tumblr is having a FIT rn

you guys are finally married!! what does your life as newlyweds look like? <3

kenma did NOT get up the day after your wedding. and he didn’t let you get up either. you guys cuddled the entire day and then got up at like 6pm to get takeout for your first meal as husband and wife LMAO

that was basically your honeymoon but if you want to actually go somewhere, that’s totally fine <3 he’ll go with you

but his love definitely comes out most in just plain domesticity

and if you guys started living with each other even before getting married, you’ve definitely gotten a taste of that simple life

domesticity with kenma looks like you guys sharing a lot of chores

if he washes the dishes, you put them away and vice versa

and he actually enjoys doing the dishes (maybe slightly just bc you squeal and can’t help but kiss his cheek every time you see him roll up his sleeves and tie his hair back. just maybe)

on the other hand, LAUNDRY is the bane of your guys’ existence which means folding + movie nights are a STAPLE in your household

you both definitely take turns picking out movies while folding clothes or while you mend his old nekoma sweats

laundry makes him feel like years are being taken off his life though. he loves being on stray sock duty (pulling out your giant bag of stray socks and trying to find matches when the pile gets big enough) or sometimes he just ends up cuddling you instead. usually its with his arms wrapped around your waist, and he loves putting his head in your lap

sometimes it gets hard folding laundry when he does that

but you can’t complain, watching a movie and cuddling? suddenly laundry’s not that bad

and he’s just so comfortable and has this crazy effect of always making you feel sleepy that you guys have fallen asleep countless times on the couch

although this also leads to you guys waking up and the most random movies playing most of the time

like the one time you guys woke up to the shining theme playing and literally thought you were about to die (IK I MENTIONED THIS IN COLD KISSES BEFORE BUT IT IS STILL SUCH A FUNNY MEMORY TO ME)

sometimes you guys throw in a blanket while drying your clothes just so that while you’re both folding laundry you can be under a warm blanket too <3

you definitely binged like all the conjuring movies while folding laundry too

my guy cannot be trusted in the kitchen but he will try his very best if you ask him for help

will for sure keep you company in the kitchen no matter what though

is sometimes on music duty or will just play his switch while you’re cooking and you both enjoy the peaceful moment <3

he can also make tea or coffee for both of you while you're cooking!! he's very good at that <3 and definitely helps grab plates when you're both ready to eat

and sometimes gets out of bed early in the morning so he can bring you a cup of tea while you're still waking <3

especially on cold mornings. will 100% get out of bed for you. you're both cold? you want the heater up? okay <3 he'll get out of bed to turn it up before getting straight back into bed and pulling you close, nuzzling his cold face into your warm neck

he’s very good in grocery stores

at pushing the cart.

and holding your grocery list if you really trust him

please don’t leave him he’ll literally go into panic mode and stand in the middle of the bread aisle until you come back

or he’ll do that thing where he walks past every aisle trying to find which one you’re in and then you guys will see each other from opposite ends

to be honest he’s more of a basket guy anyway

like you walk into the grocery store and he's immediately picking up a basket (bc no way is he letting you hold it)

“kenma we need like a week’s work of groceries they’re not all gonna fit in there”

“yeah it will. i'll make it fit.”

most of the time he can't LMAO or something ends up getting squished but it’s okay

bc you know why he likes baskets?

so he can hold your hand <3

loves loves loves to play with your wedding ring, fiddling with it or just running his thumb over it while holding your hand

at first he hated grocery stores bc there’s so many inconsiderate people and it just make him feel anxious but he started to like it when he came with you

he likes following you around because you always know where you're going and he's just there for the ride

and he likes being there so that whenever you put something in the basket and ask “what’s next on the list?” he can tell you <3 he takes his job as grocery list holder very seriously

also surprisingly good at remembering to bring reusable bags (or will insist on holding everything. he is NOT paying 10¢ for a bag)

he may also sneak a few snacks into the basket/cart (if you forced him to get one) which is always okay <3

dinner looks like him stopping everything to eat with you or inviting you to watch/play with him while you guys eat

because again quality time is such an important and prominent love language in your guys’ life

he loves to just have you there with him and it’s all you need as well <3

but especially by marriage, if you want one-on-one time he will absolutely give you his full attention. why would he pass up on a chance to stare at his wife's pretty face and listen to her talk?

his chat and fanbase are also definitely well acquainted with you and adore you

they’re always melting over your interactions and sometimes when you walk by the camera and they see you they’re all freaking out like “OMG IT’S Y/N!!!!” “CAN WE SAY HI TO Y/N”

he always laughs when he sees his chat, because sometimes he doesn’t even notice you walking around in the background but he always complies. “babe?” he’ll call out

“what’s up?” you ask, coming back into the room

“my chat just wants to say hi,” he answers and you always smile, walking closer to his desk and leaning over his shoulder to say hi

it literally warms his heart to see his wife interacting with his chat <3

and when his followers found out you guys were getting married? #ynxkenmaendgameishappening went viral on twitter

and nearly everytime he refers to you as his wife his chat still blows up

you probably join him for q&as most often, and he once again is usually holding your hand in his lap, fidgeting with the pretty ring on your finger while you talk to the stream

at night he’s definitely a late sleeper, but you’ve scolded him about looking at screens in the dark too many times for him to count

so oftentimes you’re curled up at his side, your face nuzzled into his torso to block out the light while he has a small lamp on and an arm resting you, holding you close

and when he finally goes to bed, he never fails to press a kiss to your head before wrapping his arms around u <3

[warlocksoup]

⋆.˚⟡ ࣪ ˖ AKAASHI KEIJI

undone ⋆.˚⟡ ࣪ ˖

CHAPTER SIX: act

Oikawa was the one who opened the door. He rolled his eyes, at first. But then he saw how much she was crying. He got Iwaizumi, then.

Her sobs are loud, and painful. Iwaizumi holds onto her like he’s trying to keep her contained, pinning her arms to her side, holding her in his lap with his chin on top of her head. His thumb rubs circles into her arm, and she has lost any false semblance of pride or dignity. She lets Iwaizumi cradle her, and she cries like a baby.

“I feel so stupid!” she wails into his chest.

“You’re not stupid,” Iwaizumi says back, because he has to. There’s nothing else for him to say.

She wants to argue with him. She wants him to admit it. He wants her to tell her that she’s a fool for thinking she could get out of this unscathed. That she’s selfish and idiotic and she wants him to tell her that she’s not a very good person, for all that she’s done.

But he doesn’t. Iwaizumi just holds her, and he places a kiss on the top of her head.

“I’m sorry,” she says to him again, and it’s probably the thousandth time she’s apologized to him. They kind of come naturally, all the apologies. Like it’s a default setting, with him. “I’m so sorry, Haji.”

“Shh. It’s okay. Don’t worry about me right now,” he whispers into her ear, and it just makes her sob harder.

Iwaizumi always has so much to give her. And she just takes, and takes, and takes. Never stopping to ask herself if it’s too much, never thinking for too long about what it does to him. “I’m sorry,” she cries again, because she can’t help it.

The only light in the room comes from his desk, where his open laptop sits, brightness turned all the way up. She interrupted him. He was working on an essay or a reading or some kind of assignment, and when he heard she was here, crying on his doorstep, he dropped it at once.

Iwaizumi loves her. She never feels it more than it that moment. It makes it all the more painful to admit that, after all of it, she still doesn’t love him. That some sick, small part of her still wishes it was Akaashi, instead.

Her fists clutch at the front of his shirt. Iwaizumi raises a hand and smooths out the back of her hair. “You know,” he says as his fingers briefly graze against the tip of her ear, “I always think I’m gonna be done with you. I think I’m ready to move on. But I dunno. Something happens and I just get pulled back in every time. There’s just something about you I just can’t give up on.”

She squeezes her eyes shut. Her breathing slows down. She doesn’t want to hear this.

“I don’t like watching him do this to you. I don’t like watching him use you. I don’t like watching him make you feel like you’re just a means to an end.”

She hiccups. “I’m just doing the same thing to you.”

He stops, for a moment, his hand freezing on the top of her head, before he resumes again. “I wouldn’t let you, if I didn’t want you to.”

“I meant what I said,” she says, still not lifting her head to look up at him. “You are important to me.”

“I know,” Iwaizumi says. “I know what I am to you.”

⋆⭒˚.⋆ 

In the morning, it’s snowing again. Her head throbs; she feels dehydrated. Iwaizumi is holding onto her, pulling her back into his chest, his leg hooked over her hip. He didn’t sleep with her last night; he wouldn’t.

She peels her eyes open. Iwaizumi shifts against her. “Are you awake?” he whispers.

“Yeah,” she answers with a nod of her head.

He yawns, turning his head away from hers. “Alright,” he says through it. “I’ll make you a coffee.”

“No,” she says, hand grabbing at his forearm, holding him in place. “Can you just stay with me? For a bit.”

Iwaizumi stiffens, and then relaxes against her. “Okay,” he says, “whatever you want.”

⋆⭒˚.⋆ 

She doesn’t get home until later in the afternoon. Akaashi’s waiting for her at the kitchen counter.

He stands when the door opens, and then closes behind her, leaning forward like he’s tempted to reach out to her, but holding himself back, because he knows he probably shouldn’t. “Where were you?”

“Iwa’s,” she answers simply, kicking off her shoes and making her way into the kitchen. “I didn’t think you’d care.”

Akaashi narrows his eyes. “Why wouldn’t I care? You just ran off. I didn’t know what happened to you.”

“You didn’t call or text or anything,” she tells him. She would know. She was compulsively checking her phone will Iwaizumi showered.

He pauses, and looks down at his feet. “Yeah, I guess I just needed some time to think.”

She nods. She wants to leave, but she stays where she is. A conversation is coming, she’s sure. Something she doesn’t want to hear. Explanations and excuses. Maybe an apology, if she’s lucky.

Akaashi sighs. “Look, I don’t know what happened last night. I got carried away. I shouldn’t have,” he stops, and looks back over his shoulder, and then down at the floor again. She figures he could at least do the courtesy of looking her in the eye. “We shouldn’t have done that. It was a mistake.”

She doesn’t need to be told that. She knew it was a mistake before she agreed. “Okay,” she says, and that’s it.

“So you agree?” Akaashi presses. “It was a mistake?”

For Akaashi, it was getting carried away. It was forgetting himself. It was acting like a horny idiot. It was a different kind of mistake, for her. Letting herself have a taste of something she wouldn’t have. Letting herself have too much.

She nods her head and agrees. She’s mad at him for making her say it. “Yeah, Keiji. It was a mistake.”

He nods along with her, like they’re on the same page. “Good. I was worried.”

She doesn’t say anything. Something in her twitches, and she feels irrational.

“I should probably try to talk to Alisa. I hope I didn’t freak her out or anything. All of that and I didn’t even get to see if she was jealous or not,” he jokes, awkwardly, uncomfortably, and he probably shouldn’t’ve.

She can’t take it. She suddenly can’t take hearing one more thing about Alisa. She disappears for a night in the cold with tears in her eyes, and all she gets is a few lazy, noncommittal sentences before it’s right back to fucking Alisa again.

It makes her angry. It makes her feel worthless. She snaps at him. “Alisa doesn’t like you.”

Akaashi snaps his head up at her, then. “What?” he questions, voice sharp.

Her eyes narrow. “I said, she doesn’t fucking like you, Keiji. She told me so. She said you’re like a little brother to her.”

His eyes water immediately, and he has to swallow before he speaks again. “What do you-why-when did she-“

“Friday,” she spits out. “She got drunk and told me. She said she was grateful we were dating, because she could finally feel comfortable around you. She was relieved at the idea that you liked someone who wasn’t her.”

She knows it’s cruel, what she says, how she’s saying it. But she doesn’t care. She’s been ripped apart raw by Akaashi so many times, she’s run low on empathy.

“You knew,” Akaashi whispers, betrayed and cut up. “Why wouldn’t you tell me? Why would you-“ he trails off, and he seems to figure it out for himself. He scoffs, “Oh my god. Oh my god, you are so fucked.”  

She chuckles mirthlessly, almost in disbelief. “Oh, I’m fucked? And I suppose I’m also the one who came up with the idea to try and trick Alisa into dating you in the first place? I’m the one who cooked up the plot to lie to all of our friends? I’m the one who asked to kiss you to make someone else jealous?”

“You went along with it!” Akaashi fires back. “You knew how desperate I was for her, and you took advantage of me!”

“And I was desperate for you!” she yells, and Akaashi takes a step back, like he’s disgusted. Like he’s repulsed by the idea. It almost knocks the wind out of her. “I would’ve done anything for you, anything you asked! You don’t think you took advantage of me? You don’t think you did anything wrong?”

“I didn’t! I was just asking you for a favor! I didn’t manipulate you! You used my feelings for her just so you could pretend I cared about you!”

The hurt in her chest is combining with her rage, and it swirls inside of her, choking her from the inside out. “God, you piss me off, Keiji. You really fucking do. You think you’re faultless? Some helpless victim? You were so willing to lie to Alisa for her attention. You think she’d be happy about that? If I called her right now, and told her everything, do you think she’d still talk to you tomorrow?”

Akaashi doesn’t say anything. He locks his jaw, and he glares at her from across the room.

“Call me selfish all you want. You think I’m proud of myself? You think I’m happy about the way things turned out? I can’t fucking stand myself. But you’re not any fucking better than me!”

Her words hang in the air for a moment. She can almost hear them echo. Akaashi looks at her, and says, “No. I’m not like you. You fucking disgust me.”

He should’ve just hit her. It would’ve been better.

She doesn’t say anything else. She just turns around, and heads back towards the door. Akaashi just stands there and watches as she slips her shoes back on, and slams the door behind her, not even bothering to grab her jacket.

Once the cold air hits her, she pulls out her phone, storming down the sidewalk as she scrolls to find Alisa contact.

‘akaashi and i were never dating. he asked to fake it for your attention. he does like you. i’m sorry i agreed to it, and i’m sorry i lied. you deserve to know the truth, and you deserve better. i’m really sorry.’

She hits send.

Her feet carry her back down a familiar route. It’s warm, in Iwaizumi’s apartment. He knows her. He gets her. He knows the truth about her, and he still loves her. It’s better with Iwaizumi, she figures. Better to settle than it is to live with this hole in her chest.

the end :3

taglist: @charlotterosea13 @quikhs @mdmraz @nazwrites-2002 @hanadulsetaad @nokjhg @alexithemiyatic @kvrokasaa @wyrcan @baylz @soobin1437 @myromanempiree @shoujoromancelover @tsumuus @recordsndreams @mochroialainn @lvtilzs @sleepzyy @kameyyy @introvertsince2003 @whorefornoodles @strxwberri-s @mjustag1rl @cherrywinelovescherries @jojo23allegra @daisy-room @iluv-ace @thatonecroc @keeboismine @asrinchin @cheriisae @ttarpii @tangyangie @zmbielover69 @angee444 @chocolains @kr1nqu @bakingcuriosity @localgaytrainwreck @ashyiiy @boooolame @acowboykisser @ghostreader0307 @nattyluvs @justagirlnamedkai @nekozaki @ujisworld

[bonny-kookoo]

can we get a drabble of yoongi grooming mc’s tail 🥹

"That hurts.!" You hiss, and he clicks his tongue, sighing to himself.

"Well stop moving so much then.!" He bites back, equally as frustrated. He's a little overwhelmed with this whole situation despite what he might've told Jimin over the phone just a few hours prior- and he knows the guy is gonna be upset with him if he finds out Yoongi did not at least attempt to care for you similarly to how Jimin himself would.

Normally, this is where Jungkook would step in- but he's not home either, staying with some friends this weekend, leaving Yoongi and you alone for two whole days, since jimin was visiting family.

You huff over his lap, moving yet again, as he pulls your legs to adjust you rather roughly, patience clearly wearing thinly now. He's not used to this, and yeah, he's also terrified of doing something wrong- because Jungkook isn't so delicate. Jungkook is a sturdy guy, physically not easily able to get hurt. But you're almost entirely the opposite.

And he's worried he might be too rough with you.

"Why's Jungkook not here?" You whine, and Yoongi bites his own tongue to not say anything. He knows he's your least favorite, and he also knows that's his own fault. He's just trying to look out for you, by attempting to make you more capable of facing the harsh outside world. People won't treat you as softly as Jimin or Jungkook do. They're harsh, and mean, and they don't care about your feelings.

Yoongi doesn't want you to get hurt.

"Jus-" you mumble, wiggling out of his grip to sit far away on the opposite end of the couch, tail in your hands. "I'll tell Jiminie you did it. Just leave it." You hiss, and Yoongi sighs, putting the brush down onto the coffee table in defeat.

"What do you want to eat later?" He mumbles towards you, not looking.

"Nothing." You respond, making him run a hand over his face in defeat.

"You can't just not eat-" he argues softly, and you shrug.

"I won't tell-" you start, but he snaps.

"Thats not the point, I don't care what you tell him!" He bites back. "You need to eat, your tail needs to be brushed or it gets tangled and we're gonna have to cut out the knots again and I don't wanna do that-" he explains, making you roll your eyes.

"Well sorry for being a long haired breed-" you begin to growl and he growls into thin air as he leans back into the couch.

"Its not about that!" He responds in frustration. "If we have to cut it, you'll get sad and I don't want that. If you don't eat you're going to bed hungry and I don't fucking want that." He sighs. "I'm trying to take care of you but you're making it goddam impossible!" He says, and you're quiet for a moment.

"..why do you hate me?" You wonder, and at that he freezes, looking over at you.

"What?" He wonders, and you shrug.

"Why do you hate me?" You repeat. "You constantly act like I'm the biggest nuisance and bother of the universe forced upon you. I didn't ask for this either, alright?" You huff, crossing your arms, and he shakes his head, his gaze that looks at you oddly.. guilty.

"I didn't.. I don't hate you." He tells you, a lot calmer now. "And you're not a bother to me. I'm just.. I don't know." He sighs. "I'm not gentle like Jungkook. Or kind like Jimin." He admits in defeat, leaning back against the couch. "I don't know how to do this shit."

"Well, not ripping my hair out with that brush would be kind of cool.." you say, gaining a playful glare from him. "Ugh alright." You roll your eyes, before you crawl over to clumsily drop yourself over his lap again, tail softly swaying in front of him. "Don't use the brush like you're trying to make me bald though." You mumble, and Yoongi sighs, carefully restarting his task now a lot more thoughtful, brush a bit lighter in his hand.

And after a while, he notices a sound coming from you, apart from your light snoring.

A purr, soft and sweet.

[justagalwhowrites]

Yearling - Ch. 33: Discovery

You, Joel and Tommy go on patrol. A continuation of Yearling ch. 1-32 found on Tumblr here.

Pairing: Joel Miller x Female Reader

Warnings: Canon-typical violence. Torture. Smut :). No use of Y/N. Minors DNI 18+ Only 

Length: 9.8k

AO3 | Chapter One | Previous Chapter | Next Chapter

February, 2028 

“Bambi, tell your husband to stop being a wuss.” 

“Wuss?” Joel shifted to look around you to his little brother. “Who you callin’ a wuss?” 

“Think I’ll call my brother-in-law a dumbass instead,” you smirked over toward Tommy. “Seems more accurate.” 

“You tellin’ me we shouldn’t be following that path there?” Tommy nodded toward a worn spot in the snow on the other side of the river where the three of you had stopped, sitting astride your horses. “The one that looks like it could’ve been made by a dozen fuckin’ men?”  

“Who knows how old that is,” Joel said. “Been weeks since it snowed. And water’s lookin’ high. Would be real easy to end up cold and wet for no damn reason…” 

“Seem awful scared of winding up cold and wet for someone who’s not a wuss,” Tommy teased. 

“I don’t want my wife,” Joel stressed the word and you smiled a little, tucking your chin into your chest to hide it. “Being cold and wet and getting sick because you’ve got some harebrained idea that we need to run down some track that’s long dead.” 

“Bambi, c’mon,” Tommy said. “You know I’m right, you know the horses can handle it and you know Joel’s just bein’ paranoid because you’re here.” 

Joel wasn’t about to tell Tommy that he was right. At least, not while he was out on his first patrol since the incident in November. It would just worry you, might make you drag him back to Jackson before patrol was done. But Tommy was right. Joel had been nervous all day, worrying about seeing you hurt. Worrying that, whoever had been after him would hurt you, too. That wasn’t something he could abide at any time but now that you were his wife, it was more vital. It felt different somehow.

A lot of things did. 

Not that there had been much tangible change since the two of you had said your vows that night in Joel’s bed. Since the attack, you hadn’t slept at your own house even once, you were already living together in every way that mattered. Ellie and Savvy had become like sisters in the few months that Savvy had been in Jackson, you like a mother to his daughter and him like a father to yours. And Joel had always been driven to protect you, from the first moment he saw you he knew he would do damn near anything to keep you safe. But the sense of peace and permanence he had calling you his wife made life alongside you another thing entirely. Protecting and caring for you was all the more necessary now. 

The girls had taken the news well, all things considered. Joel hadn’t really been worried about Ellie’s reaction, of course. You were the closest thing she had to a mother and lord knew the girl had been working overtime trying to shove you and Joel back together after you’d left. 

But he could tell you’d been worried about telling Savvy. 

“That ring fittin’ OK?” He asked as he brought you a cup of coffee in bed just as the sun started to rise on Christmas morning. 

“Hm?” You looked up at him from your spot nestled into the pillows, chest bare and blankets over your lap like they had been the night before as the two of you made promises to each other. The hand that was twisting your ring around and around on your finger stilled. 

“You’re fidgetin’ something fierce there, Mrs. Miller,” he smiled a little and handed you the cup of coffee. “Wanted to know if that ring was fittin’ OK or if you were just getting cold feet on me.” 

“It fits great,” you smiled a little over the coffee cup, taking a sip. “And no, no cold feet.” 

“Alright,” he said, sitting in bed beside you in nothing but his pajama pants. His fingers trailed up the bare skin of your arm. “Then I think you should tell me what’s on that pretty mind of yours.” 

“You’re gonna get us in trouble, touching me like that,” you said, taking another sip of coffee. “Girls will be here soon…” 

“Oh I can be quick,” he teased. “But I’d rather not rush our wedding… well, morning…” 

You rolled your eyes but laced your fingers with his, brushing his ring as you did. 

“Talk to me,” he said, turning serious. “Don’t want to start this off with secrets.” 

“It’s not a secret,” you sighed, looking at his hand for a moment longer before looking him in the eye. “But… I don’t want to hurt Savvy. I want this with you more than almost anything else. The only thing I want more is for her to be OK. I just don’t know how to tell her.” 

Joel nodded slowly, watching you. 

“Want to do it together?” He asked gently. You raised your eyebrows. “I don’t want to get in the way of anything but I don’t want you thinkin’ you’re in this alone because you’re not. That’s the whole point.” 

You laughed once and then sighed. 

“It might help,” you said after a moment. “I think she likes you more than she likes me.” 

“Don’t think that’s true,” he said. “She’s just… dealing with some complicated things. And there ain’t a real guidebook for regular parenting, let alone how you raise a kid after the world ends. She loves you. She really does.” 

“Should we tell the girls together then?” You asked, looking uncertain.  

“I think, if you’re OK with that?” Joel shrugged. “Yeah. I’d like to do that with you.” 

You smiled a little and the two of you adjusted in bed so that you were in his arms, your skin soft against his. You finished your coffee and got dressed just before the clatter of teenaged girls took over the house not long after. 

Joel kept you tucked against his side as the two of you watched the girls open their gifts, his lips brushing your temple and giving you a squeeze when he could sense you getting tense. He gathered the two of them that afternoon as the four of you got ready to head to Tommy and Maria’s for dinner, your hands stuffed into the back pockets of your jeans as you paced the kitchen until Ellie and Savvy were there and you joined him at his side. 

“What’s up?” Ellie frowned, looking between the two of you. 

“Well,” Joel said gently. “We were hopin’ to talk to you girls about something…” 

“Oh God,” Ellie groaned. “Please tell me no one’s doing anything stupid…” 

“Nothin’ stupid,” Joel smiled a little, slipping an arm through yours to curve around your back and tug you close to his side. You looked up at him for a moment but he didn’t need to look back to know that you were on the verge of panic. He could feel it, your whole body was tense, your breaths short and shallow. “Something real good, actually. We wanted the two of you to know before anyone else but… well, we decided to get married.” 

“Oh shit!” Ellie’s eyes went wide for a minute. “Congrats! It’s about damn time, honestly.” 

Savvy, however, was silent. She looked between the two of you, her brows drawn together, a small frown on her face before she stalked out of the room. 

You pulled away from Joel immediately and he went to follow you but you put up a hand and shook your head before chasing her down. 

“Shit,” Ellie, said quietly, staring out the back door that you and Savvy had just left through. Joel clenched his jaw for a moment, resisting the urge to go find you no matter how badly he might want to. 

“Still a sore subject for her, huh?” Joel asked Ellie after a moment. 

She sighed. 

“I really wish Bambi would give her some idea of what happened,” she said. “Because she really seems to think that she had some kind of easy fucking time… She asked me a little bit about it after you both got back last month. I guess she overheard the doctors talking but I didn’t know what to fucking say. I don’t think she’s actually pissed about the two of you. I think she’s pissed at the idea that she was on her own while her mom was having some happy life here.” 

Joel sighed for a moment before giving in and following you out the back door. You were standing in the snow, halfway back to Ellie’s place, your back to him as you focused on Savvy. 

“Don’t let me get in the way of whatever dream life you’re tryin’ to have here,” her tone was sharp. “Didn’t let me hold you back before…” 

“That’s not what this is,” you said, calm and steady. But Joel could hear the pain on your voice.  “You’re the most important thing in the world to me and…” 

“You’ve got a funny way of showing that!” 

Savvy noticed him then, narrowing glaring at him for a moment. You looked back over your shoulder to him, your eyes large and round and watery. He came up behind you, a hand going to the small of your back as he pressed himself against your shoulder. 

“Baby girl,” Joel said gently. “I know this is something that’s big…” 

“No shit,” she snapped in a way that was so Ellie that Joel considered talking to the older girl about how she spoke around the younger one. 

“But,” he continued. “You and Ellie are our number one priority. Always have been…” 

She scoffed and rolled her eyes, looking into the distance instead of at either one of you. 

“Us getting married is just about me and Joel,” you said, pressing yourself back into him. “It doesn’t mean we’re choosing each other over you, it doesn’t mean we love you any less. It just means we wanted to make that commitment to each other, that’s all.” 

She sighed and closed her eyes for a moment before looking back at you. 

“So what does this mean, then?” She asked. “What’s going to change?” 

You looked up at Joel for a moment before looking back to her. 

“Not a lot, really,” you said. “We haven’t really talked about where we’re going to live but that’s not too different from how things have been the past few weeks. No one here uses my real name, anyway, and you have your father’s last name, not mine, so even if I did decide to take Joel’s name, it wouldn’t change anything for you.” 

She nodded slowly, considering. Joel marveled, for a moment, at how your daughter held her face just like you when she was thinking, the same purse to her lips, the same scrunch of her brow. You’d passed on so much to her even if you didn’t give her your blood. 

“Think you can be OK with this?” You asked gently after a moment. “I don’t want to hurt you, honey. I love you more than anything, I don’t want you to be unhappy, especially not because of me.” 

“I don’t want you to be unhappy, either,” Savvy said quietly. “I just… I still don’t really get this place. I’m making friends, I’m going to school but… it’s all so different. I still don’t know how I feel about any of it.” 

“I know,” you said quietly, reaching out and cupping your daughter’s cheek. Joel held his breath for half a moment, until he realized that she wasn’t going to pull away from your touch. “And I’m sorry I didn’t find you sooner or get you here when you were smaller and it would have been easier.” 

“I don’t want to be angry,” she said, her voice thick and wet. “I’m so tired, Mom.” 

“I know,” you said again, pulling her into you and holding her to your chest. She was stiff for a moment before relaxing into you, her arms going around your waist. “I know, baby.” 

It got easier after that. At least on the surface. Savvy was still distant but she didn’t seem to be as antagonistic as she had been before. You moved into Joel’s house - though you traded the sound system at your house for Joel’s - and you set up one of the bedrooms upstairs for Savvy, even though she was still living at Ellie’s. 

“At some point, Ellie is going to need her space,” you said, moving the twin sized bed for the fourth time, the wood groaning across the floor as you shoved it into a new place. “She’s a grown woman now…” 

“Rather not think about that,” Joel grumbled, even though he’d been trying to find a way to talk to Ellie about her friendship with Jesse in particular. They seemed… close. And who knew what  she’d been taught in that damn FEDRA school. 

“Think about it or not,” you said, standing back, hands on your hips as you looked at your handiwork. “It’s comin’ for you. She’s going to want to actually live an adult life and that means adult space. Would rather her not feel like she needs to move out of the backyard right away to have that. So… Savvy can just come here.” 

Joel thought it was a bit optimistic to think that Savvy would be willing to come here, but he couldn’t bring himself to say that. You were finally showing signs of hope about your relationship with your daughter. You’d been suffering with her so far away. You had done a good job of hiding it - he doubted anyone but him had noticed - but you couldn’t keep going like that, not forever. He didn’t want to ruin it, not now. 

Your hopeful nature around Savvy was just another way the world seemed to be changing. The patrols outside Jackson were reporting more and more signs of people and, with them would come more infected. Patrols were starting to pick up and Joel felt the push to make himself useful again with more urgency than ever. 

While Jackson was filled with incredibly skillful riders and hunters, Joel knew he was one of the best. Many of the folk here had lived a life that didn’t involve much struggle - at least, relatively speaking - after the outbreak. He’d survived with blood and he was more than willing to shed some more to protect his home and his family. Sitting on the sidelines, lame and useless, didn’t suit him. 

He’d learned to avoid the gates and the stables when patrols were coming and going, not wanting to look at the men and women who got to go out and actually make themselves useful with envy that was rooted in the self loathing that had started to bloom inside of him. 

He started going to talk to the doctors at least once a week, seeing if he’d made enough progress to start going outside the walls of the city again. It was slow going. Getting approved for sex and lighter work around town was one thing. Getting the OK to go outside and hunt down raiders was - apparently - another matter entirely. But, eventually, he got a hesitant OK from both doctors. 

Joel got them to put it in writing - feeling only a little bit like a school boy taking a report card home to his mother - and headed straight for the stable to show you. You were working with a horse, one that had been foaled in Jackson right around the time he’d first found you in the snow. It was old enough now that you could work with it, accustomed enough to people that you’d told him you thought you’d be able to get the horse to broke fast. He stood and watched you for a bit, you standing beside her and getting her used to someone putting pressure on her body to guide her, talking to her in that gentle voice you used when working with animals. 

“You gonna just stand there and watch, cowboy?” You asked after a few minutes, not looking over your shoulder to him but Joel knew you were smiling all the same. “Or is there something I can do for you?” 

“Man need a reason to come look at his wife?” He asked. You twisted look at him at that and he was right, you were smiling. “I don’t think he does. Not when she’s as pretty as you, anyway.” 

“Uh huh,” you looked back to the horse, giving her a treat of some kind. “Feel like you’re tryin’ to butter me up over there.” 

“Maybe,” he shrugged. “Or maybe I just needed to look at ya for a minute.” 

“Gimme five minutes,” you said, throwing a mischievous look over your shoulder. “Then maybe you can do more than look.”

Joel laughed a little and watched you finish up with the horse before you led her inside and put her in her stall, him trailing behind you. In all honesty, he was happy to watch you work. You were so good with them, you cared so deeply. It was enthralling in the best possible way, just the physical manifestation of one of the infinite reasons he loved you. 

You latched the stable door when you were done with the horse and stood close to Joel, taking his shirt by the fistful and pulling him against you so you could kiss him. He was happy to let you, one of his hands finding your face to hold you in just the right spot so he could dip his tongue into your mouth while you moaned against his lips. 

“Before this goes too far,” he said after pulling back from you. “Should talk about something…” 

“Should we?” You asked, tugging him against you for another kiss. 

“Mhmm,” he hummed against your mouth. You released him and stepped back a little, frowning. He smiled a little. “S’nothing bad, don’t gotta look so worried about it.” 

“Alright,” you said, a hint of challenge in your voice. “Then what is it?” 

“Well,” he said, holding your gaze and trying to shake the feeling that he’d done something he shouldn’t have. “Talked to the doctors…” 

Your eyes narrowed. 

“And they’ve OKed me to go out on patrol again…” 

“GodDAMMIT Joel!” You stomped away from him, back to him, arms crossed. He gave you a moment to seethe, his hands in his pockets, thumbs drumming a stuttering rhythm on the denim. After a few deathly quiet seconds, you turned back. “Really? You really want to go get yourself fuckin’ killed…” 

“Sweetheart…” 

“Are we just not enough for you?” You demanded, stalking up to him, arms still crossed tightly in front of you. “Me, Ellie, Savvy. Are we not enough? Do you need to go get some kind of goddamn adrenaline rush, is that it?” 

He resisted the urge to fight you on it. Your eyes were watery and wide and pleading. 

“You know that’s not what it is, baby,” he whispered. A single tear slipped down your cheek and he reached out to gently take your face in his hand, catching it on his thumb. “You’re more than enough, you’re more than I deserve. And you know I don’t want to hurt you…” 

“Don’t make this about me,” you snapped. He ignored that, too. 

“But we need people who can keep Jackson safe,” he said. “For you, for our girls. I can do that. You know I can…” 

“You can’t if you get yourself fuckin’ killed!” You took a deep breath and centered yourself for a moment. “You’re still limping…” 

“I know,” he nodded slowly. “But they think I’ll probably limp at least a little for the rest of my life. S’OK. I can ride just fine, won’t hurt me bein’ able to fight…” 

“Bullshit.” 

“It’ll be OK,” he said gently. “And I’m willin’ to go out with you or Tommy….” 

“And,” you cut him off. 

Joel frowned. 

“And?” 

“Me and Tommy,” you replied. “Deal’s changed. You’re limping, you can’t go out with just one of us, it has to be both.”

He sighed. 

“Bambi…” 

“You want me on board?” You asked. “That’s the deal.” 

He sighed again. 

“We can talk with Maria,” he said. “See if we have the space for it.” 

“Alright,” you said “Because I’m not going to just sit here and watch you get yourself hurt or killed. That’s not what I signed up for.” 

“Not what I’m asking you to do,” he said gently. “I don’t want to not come home to you, baby. But I need to make sure I’m doin’ my part to keep Jackson safe.” 

It had taken a few weeks for things to line up right with patrols and Joel could feel how tense you were leading up to the day the three of you were heading out. You’d clung to him especially hard the night before. Ellie and Savvy had joined the two of you for dinner and then to play cards and you’d held it together pretty well until they left. But the second they were gone it was like a switch flipped. You pressed yourself against his side, your arms wrapped around his bicep, your head tight against his shoulder. 

“You alright?” He frowned. 

“Fine,” you said, voice tight. 

When he took you to bed, you rode him aching and slow until you came and collapsed on top of him, Joel only lasting a few more deep thrusts into your tight heat before coming undone himself. He held you there, your head against his chest as his hand trailed a slow and easy path up and down your spine. He was still inside you when he felt your tears on his chest. 

“Baby,” he said softly. 

“Don’t make me come back alone,” you said, lifting your head from his chest enough to look at him, the rest of you still tight against his body. “Please, Joel. Don’t make me lose you, too.” 

“Not losing me,” he held your face in his hands. “Promise.” 

“You’ll always come back for me?” You whispered. 

“Always,” he said softly. “I promise. As long as you promise to always be there to come back to.” 

“Promise,” you said quietly. 

He’d been worried about how the patrol was going to go after that, but you, him and Tommy had fallen back into your usual patterns easily once you were outside Jackson and you let yourselves relax into them a bit. 

It had been an easy patrol until the three of you stopped to give the horses a chance to take a drink and saw the tracks across the river. And Joel couldn’t seem to shake the clutch of fear that gripped him at the thought of putting you in harm’s way by following the trail. 

“Tommy, I swear to God, you ever hold this against me…” you began, but he cut you off. 

“You’ll shoot me?” Tommy teased. 

“Trample you with a horse,” you replied. “But… yeah. You’re right. We should check that trail.” 

Joel gave you a look and you just looked back, your brows raised. He sighed. 

“Alright,” he said. “Tommy, you take the lead since this is your damn scheme.” 

“C’mon lovebirds,” he said, starting across the water. “Sooner we follow this path, sooner we can get back to town and the sooner you two can go back to leavin’ me out of whatever it is you two do.” 

Joel was about to give Tommy shit but you beat him to it, lobbing a snowball at him and hitting him straight in the face. Joel barked a laugh as you tried to stifle yours, your arms crossed demurely over your saddle horn. 

“Nice,” Tommy said as the snow slid off his face. “Real nice.” 

“Well, say stupid shit, win stupid prizes,” you shrugged, smirking a little. 

“Not cool, Bambi,” he said, wiping his face clean. “Not cool.” 

“You’re right,” you replied, smirk growing. “Think it’s technically cold…” 

Tommy leaned around you to look at Joel. 

“You’ve had too much influence on your wife,” he said. “I remember when she was a nice girl…” 

“Bullshit,” you said. 

“Wouldn’t even look at someone mean…” 

“Tommy, she’d have always kicked your ass whenever you did somethin’ dumb enough to ask for it,” Joel smiled, a little proud. “Now let’s move before you give ‘er another reason.” 

Tommy wiped the last of the snow from his skin with a good natured shake of his head and started off. You called Gatling back into her spot on your saddle as Joel nodded for you to be in between the two of them so he could bring up the rear. At least this way, Joel or Tommy would get hit before you would. 

The three of you followed the tracks for a few hours, until things shifted. You noticed it first, that the footprints in the snow looked more well traveled, like people were coming and going from this point in the forest more often than all the way to the water. 

“There,” you said quietly, nodding to the brush off the trail. Joel looked where you indicated, a baited trap primed and ready. 

“That ain’t been there long,” Tommy said. Joel came up alongside you, closer than he’d normally try to be when on horseback. But it kept the rising fear in him calmer, more contained. He looked around at the ground, the snow so worn down it was hard to have even a remote idea of how many people had been through here recently. Gatling gave a low, rumbling growl and you soothed her with a pet.

“We should go back,” Joel said. “Get backup…”

“That’d be wise.” 

Your gun was drawn before Joel or Tommy could reach theirs and you twisted in your saddle to  look behind you. Joel turned, too, his sidearm drawn, a group of six men on foot standing about 20 feet back. Their rifles were drawn, at least two of them trained on you. Joel’s jaw clenched. 

“Why don’t you folks get off those horses,” a man at the middle of the group said. “See what we can figure out.” 

You glanced toward Joel before you whistled Gatling down and started to dismount before he had a chance to argue. Joel did, too, arranging himself in front of you - Tommy at his side, shielding you, too - before stepping closer to the group. Joel slung his rifle forward on his arm but kept it tilted toward the man’s legs and not his head. The man who’d spoken smirked. 

“Haven’t seen you out this way before,” the man said. “Care to tell us where you’re from?” 

“Not really,” Tommy said as Joel looked the group over. They were all large and broad, young and cocky. Looked to be well fed. These weren’t travelers passing through, of that he was almost certain. “You can tell us, though, seein’ as you’re traipsin’ through our territory.” 

“Your territory?” The man raised his brows. “Seems like a bold claim for two men and their… pet to make.”

Tommy snapped his rifle up before Joel did.

“Say that shit about her again,” he snapped. “Fuckin’ dare you.” 

Your hand went in the middle of Joel’s back, right between his shoulder blades, a gentle and grounding force, before you appeared at his side, Gatling practically glued to your calve. 

“Bambi,” Joel growled, your hand trailing over his back before raising your rifle. 

The man looked at you, amused. 

“She’s come to play,” he smiled. “That’s good, I like ‘em with a little fight…” 

“Trust me when I tell you that I’m doing you a favor, giving you the chance to deal with me,” you said, sounding almost eerily calm. “Try me and they’ll kill you. Assuming I don’t kill you first.”

Gatling growled at your feet, crouched and ready to spring. 

“Now,” you said. “Where are you from.” 

The man looked at you for a moment, all but licking his lips, before turning back to Joel and Tommy. 

“You really let your little woman run the show?” He asked. “Can think of a lot better uses for her smart mouth…” 

Gatling snarled and flattened her ears against her head. Joel’s eyes narrowed, raising his gun so it was now aimed at the man’s chest, not his legs. 

“That’s my wife you’re talkin’ about,” he strained to keep his voice calm. “Now, you gonna tell us where you’re from or are you gonna make me gun you down?”  

“How about this,” the man said, still seeming over confident. “You tell us where you’re from, maybe let us have a little fun with your whore wife, you go on your merry way. Otherwise, we can just kill you.” 

Joel’s jaw clenched. Tommy adjusted his grip on his gun and Joel gave him a look before glancing over to you. 

“Any of them look familiar?” He asked, voice dangerous and low. 

“No,” you said. “Don’t know any of them.” 

Joel focused back on the men. 

“Good.” 

He reached out an arm and swept you behind him a half second before he started shooting, Tommy following suit almost immediately. The men shot back, a bullet glancing off Joel’s shoulder as they did. You, of course refused to stay where Joel had tucked you for long. You stepped alongside him, firing, too, as Joel tried not to be distracted by the terrifying possibility of you, bleeding on the ground. 

But the three of you were lucky. The men clearly hadn’t been doing this long. Joel wasn’t sure if they were just bad shots or if shooting and killing a person wasn’t something they were really comfortable with yet but either way, they’d dropped five of them, the sixth taking off, a bullet hole in his leg. 

You lowered your gun. 

“Gatling,” you panted before snapping and pointing toward the man. “Capture.” 

She shot off like a rocket, her ears pressed flat against her head. The man was no match for her speed and she launched herself at him, her jaws clamping around the man���s bicep as she wrenched his body to the ground. 

You took a deep breath and then looked to Joel’s arm, where there was now a hole in his jacket that the cold air bit through and a small spray of blood. 

“Why do you always find some way to get fuckin’ shot?” You asked, your thumbs gently tracing the outside edge of the small wound. 

“Just talented I suppose,” Joel smiled a little before looking over at Tommy. “You OK?” 

“Fine,” he slung his rifle over his shoulder. “Should question that fucker and get the hell out of here before worse shows up.” 

Joel led the way, drawing his knife. The three of you stood over the man, the same one who’d done all the talking before. He seemed much less cocky now, whimpering as Gatling growled around the meat of his arm. 

“Call off your fucking dog!” He sobbed. “Fuck, please! I’ll tell you whatever you want, please!” 

“Not one to give in to demands like that, but…” Joel looked at you. 

“Gatling,” you said. “Release.” 

The dog dropped the man’s arm and came to stand against your side, her ribs pressed to your leg. Joel caught the man’s shoulder with the toe of his boot and rolled him onto his back. He tried to sit up but Joel stopped him, pressing his foot into the wound from Gatling’s jaws on the man’s arm. He cried out as Joel forced him to the ground and Tommy kicked the man’s gun away. 

“Now,” Joel said, getting down low and putting a knee at the center of the man’s chest. “You’re gonna answer some questions for us.” 

***

Normally, watching Joel hurt someone would turn your stomach. It wasn’t a sight you enjoyed to begin with and you’d never seen him torture someone since you’d known how he learned how to. The fact that he had anything in common with the man bleeding on the ground made your stomach clench. 

But this was different. Savvy was back in Jackson now. There were a lot of lines you were more than willing to cross to keep men like this far, far away from her. Including this one. 

You rested your hand on Gatling’s head, the warmth of her fur comforting and familiar. 

“Look at her,” Joel said, taking the man’s chin in his hand and forcing him to face you before looking at you himself. “You sure you don’t know him? Want to make sure I make this worse if you do.” 

“I’m sure,” you said. It was oddly comforting, his threat. It was good to know that Joel was still Joel, even when doing stuff like this. 

He nodded once and looked back at the man. 

“Count yourself lucky,” he said. “She’s makin’ this easier for you. Now, where are you from.” 

“Territory north west of here,” he panted. “In Idaho.” 

“What brings you down this way?” Joel asked. 

The man was silent for a moment outside of his labored breaths, his eyes closed in a wince. Joel sighed, sounding exasperated before lifting his knife. 

“I’m gonna ask again,” Joel said. “Last time it’ll be nice. Why are you here.” 

“Why should I tell you, hm?” The man spat. “You’re just gonna hurt me, kill me anyway, what goddamn difference does it make?” 

“Now see, that’s just a bad attitude to have,” Tommy said, kneeling next to the man. He grabbed a fistful of his hair and forced his head to turn. “We can make this real hard or real easy. We got a lot of incentive to make this easy. We want to get back home to our families, don’t want to just be out here in the cold for hours on end because you’re being a goddamn dumbass. But, we have shit we need to protect. And if that means stayin’ out here while we take you apart piece by piece until you tell us what we want to know then, well, so be it.” 

“Give you just a second to think about what my brother told you,” Joel said, pressing the tip of the knife to the man’s shoulder but not pushing it in. “And then you can answer now or you can answer later. Why are you here.” 

The man closed his eyes for a moment and took a deep, shuddering breath before opening them again. 

“There are too many of us,” he said. “Too many groups, been fighting over space for the past few years. Decided to work together for a time, find new territory to expand into. Sent us out here to see what might get in the way. Been tracking the territory of a settlement about a day’s walk from here, trying to see where we can push in and what they’ve got to push back…” 

You stiffened, a chill running up your spine. Joel looked up to you, his eyes as concerned as you felt. He looked back at the man. 

“How’s that been workin’?” Joel asked. “How are you tracking it?” 

“We’ve been marking what we think the outside edges are,” he said. “We’ve been pushing in closer, last few months…” 

“Who’re you workin’ with?” Joel asked. 

“What?” The man asked, confused. 

Joel sighed before pressing the knife into the man’s shoulder and he screamed. 

“Don’t ask stupid questions,” Joel said. “The way you were talkin’ about my wife? I really wouldn’t mind taking my time and takin’ you apart. Who are you working with. Want names.” 

“I don’t know!” He sobbed. “Swear I don’t, we run with a guy called Smith, he’s joined up with a couple other guys with groups like his, I don’t know their names…” 

“Try and remember,” Joel growled, pressing the knife deeper. You winced and looked away, trying not think about Joel doing this before. Your stomach turned. “The name Mitchum ring a bell?” 

“No,” the man said quickly. “Please, no, I promise I don’t know the names! Just that there are three or four of ‘em, that’s all.” 

“How far out are the others you’re working with?” He asked. “They gonna be breathing down our necks any second?” 

“No,” he said. “No, they’re a few days walk at least…” 

Joel nodded before he reached out, brushing his fingers over the outside of your thigh, bringing your attention back to him. 

“Any other questions?” He asked you. “Other names?” 

“No,” you shook your head quickly. “Nothing else.” 

Joel nodded, turning back to the man. 

“Can’t let you live,” he said. “You’re a liability. You’re too hurt to get a message back to your people so there’s no point in risking it.” 

“Fuck you,” the man spat and Joel shrugged. 

“Shitty last words,” he said, pulling the knife from his shoulder before quickly slitting the man’s throat. He gasped and burbled on his own blood for a minute before he went still and quiet. Joel wiped his knife clean on the man’s shirt before sheathing it and getting to his feet. He looked to you then, his eyes wide and soft and deep. 

“You with me?” He asked gently. You nodded quickly. He reached out, slowly, to take your face in his hands. His thumbs traced your cheekbones and his eyes looked into yours. “You’re OK? Not…” 

“Yeah,” you said softly, cutting him off. “I’m OK.” 

You weren’t sure how true that was. He pulled you against him, pressing his lips to your forehead before cradling you against him and holding you for a moment. 

“Much as I’m happy you two have worked your shit out,” Tommy said. “We should get moving. Pretty sure he was tellin’ the truth but I don’t want to bet our lives on it.” 

The three of you mounted up again, Gatling settling into her space on the front of your saddle. 

“So,” Tommy said after you’d been riding for a bit. “Am I allowed to ask the obvious question?” 

“Tommy,” Joel said, a warning on his voice. 

“Look,” he replied. “Not tryin’ to hurt anyone or fuck up things between you two. But I’ve got a job to do when it comes to protecting my town and protecting my family and you two are a part of both of those things. Can’t defend from something I don’t know.” 

“You don’t need -” Joel began but you cut him off. 

“Mitchum was the man who held me captive for two years,” you said, staring straight ahead. Gatling gave a small whimper and you scratched her head. Tommy was quiet for what felt like a small eternity.

“He…” Tommy’s voice trailed off. “Two years?” You nodded, not able to look at him. “Two goddamn years?” 

Your jaw tightened and your stomach turned. 

“Two goddamn years and he ain’t dead yet?” Tommy asked, voice shifting to anger as he rounded on Joel. “The fuck have you been doing?” 

“You think he’d still be breathin’ if I knew where to find him?” Joel snapped. “Ain’t that easy.” 

“Should do to that fucker whatever he did to you,” Tommy said, ignoring Joel now. “Why haven’t you mentioned this before? We could’ve helped you, could’ve tried to track him down…” 

“She don’t want to talk about it, Tommy,” Joel hissed. “Leave it.” 

Gatling stretched up to give you a small lick on the chin. 

“Joel’s right,” you said, finally making yourself look at the man who had become as much of a brother to you as the boys you’d grown up with had been. The pity in his eyes almost made you turn away. “I don’t want to talk about it. But you should know that he’s still after me. Joel and I ran into trouble on patrol before. One of the men then was one that… I knew him, from before. He said Mitchum is looking for me. He’s got a crew, at least 50 guys when I got out, and he’s looking for me.” 

“Jesus,” Tommy shook his head for a moment before steeling himself. “He’s not gettin’ his hands on you. We’ll protect you, not going to let him hurt you, you understand me?” 

“I know,” you said, looking straight ahead again. You tried not to think about what the man had just said. That there were groups of men like Mitchum, all bearing down on Jackson. 

“Who all knows?” Tommy asked, calmer now. “About… what happened.” 

“Joel,” you said, though that should have been obvious. “Ellie knows the broad strokes of it. Now you.” 

“Not Savvy?” He asked, frown so evident in his voice that you looked over at him again. He looked sad and you tried not to resent him for it. 

“Don’t need her having that shit in her head,” you said, looking forward again. 

Tommy was silent for a few minutes. 

“I’m really sorry, Bambi,” he said eventually. “You shouldn’t…” 

“I don’t want your pity,” you said, harsher than you’d really meant to. “Just… forget I said anything.” 

“But…” 

“I said fucking forget it, Tommy.” 

The rest of the ride back was quiet and you wanted to fix it. But, more than that, you wanted things to go back to how they’d been before. Where Tommy would give you shit and you’d give him shit back, not where he was going to pity you and handle you with kid gloves. You wanted him to keep being your brother, not someone who kept you at arm’s length because they kept picturing the shit that had happened to you. 

Olivia was at the stable when the three of you made it back and you were almost disappointed that you wouldn’t be able to get lost in handling the horses on your own for a while. When she stepped to the side for a moment, you took a deep breath and turned to Tommy. 

“I’m sorry I snapped at you,” you said, hoping that this would at least start to fix things. “I get that you need certain… information. I just don’t want you seeing me any different.” 

“I don’t,” he gave you a sad half smile. “Just think you’re more badass now, that’s all.” 

You scoffed but he waved you off. 

“I mean it,” he said. “I do. And I’ll keep it to myself, alright?” 

“Thank you,” you said and he pulled you in for a small hug. 

“You might be Joel’s girl,” he said. “But you’re my sister. I’m gonna look out for you. No one’s allowed to fuck with you except me.” 

You laughed a little at that, Tommy reminding you so much of Richie for a moment. 

“I’ll go report out on this patrol,” he said, stepping back from you and looking to Joel. “We got some good information, it’ll help us be ready for whatever’s comin’ our way.” 

Joel nodded, a concerned look on his face. 

“We’ve weathered hard shit before,” Tommy said. “We can handle whatever these assholes have to throw at us. Took a lot to establish our territory here and I’m not afraid to shed a little blood to protect it.” 

He set off and you, Joel and Olivia took care of everything else in near silence, Olivia just filling you in on the goings on while you were gone, seemingly unaware of any tension on the air. 

“Should we go by the doctor?” You asked as you and Joel went to leave, your arms tight across your chest. “See if you need stitches or anything?” 

“No,” he replied, draping an arm over your shoulders and tugging you closer to press a kiss to your temple. “It’s nothing too bad. Just want to get home.” 

You just nodded and let him guide you home, walking in silence, the looming threat from the man Joel had questioned keeping your mind far away. 

But when Joel opened the front door, you weren’t met with a quiet living room. Instead, Ellie and Savvy were sitting on the floor around the coffee table, Uno cards fanned out in their hands. 

“Should never have told you how the draw cards work,” Ellie was muttering, her back to you and her already sizable hand growing as she drew from the deck in the middle of the table. 

Savvy looked up as the door knob thudded into the wall, her eyes finding yours. Her face lit up like she was happy to see you - actually happy to see you. 

“Mom!” She dropped her cards and jumped up. “You’re back!” 

She ran over to you but stopped short of hugging you, looking you up and down before looking at Joel, too. 

“Are you guys OK?” She asked, a little more reserved now, more how you were used to seeing her over the past few months. “Everyone made it through and stuff?”��

“We’re fine,” you smiled, trying to actually be in the room with her instead of worrying about the threat of raiders on the horizon. It was easier, knowing that she actually wanted you there. “Is everything OK? What are you two doing here?” 

“You were gone a little long,” she bit her lip and shoved her hands in her back pockets. “We just… we wanted to make sure you got home.” 

You smiled, reaching out to tuck the stray curl that always popped out from her braids behind her ear. It was an automatic thing, a gesture you’d done countless times since she was a toddler. It didn’t occur to you until your fingers were almost brushing her skin that she might pull back from you now. But she didn’t. She let you touch her, adjusting her hair and cupping her cheek. 

“Missed you,” you said quietly. 

She smiled. It was tight, a little hesitant, but it was a smile.

“I missed you, too.” 

Ellie had gone to the mess hall and brought back dinner for you and Joel and the two of you ate as Ellie and Savvy got Monopoly set up at the kitchen table. The four of you played a game, you paying more attention to explaining things like rents and mortgages and how they’d worked in the real world to Savvy. She crinkled her nose, the concept of money and paying to live inherently foreign to her. Joel kept a hand on your knee for most of it, his thumb tracing a gentle pattern there as you let Savvy clean you out, a small smile on your face every time you had to pay her. 

“Well, some of us have to be up early tomorrow,” Ellie said, stretching, back arched like a cat after she won the game. “C’mon Savvy.” 

“Yeah, alright,” Savvy yawned and tried to stifle it before getting to her feet. 

“It was good to see you,” you said, crossing your arms to keep from reaching for her. “Thank you for staying a while.” 

“Yeah,” she smiled, small but not as tight as it had been lately. “It was good to see you, too.” 

She looked at you for a moment before hesitantly stepping closer. You lowered your arms and forced yourself to keep them at your sides until she reached for you, hugging you. You slowly, cautiously, hugged her back, tears pricking at the corners of your eyes as you held her close. She felt so foreign but so familiar all at once. You’d never had a chance to truly get used to holding her in the body she’d grown into in the years you were apart but she was still so her, smelling and moving the same as she always had.

You held onto her until she pulled away, her awkwardly staring down at your shoes before clearing her throat. 

“Well…” she said. “Goodnight Mom. Joel.” 

“Night,” Joel said, coming up alongside you, one of his large hands splaying wide over the small of your back. 

“Goodnight,” you smiled a little, your voice wet. 

Ellie gave you an encouraging look and followed Savvy out the back door and into the yard. You just stood there, watching them go, until they were inside the shed and the light turned on there. 

“Hey,” Joel said quietly from beside you. You turned enough to look at him. He was watching you closely, frowning slightly. “How we doin’?” 

You frowned. 

“I’m fine,” you said. “Not really sure what you’re asking…” 

“Well,” he looked off to the side for a moment before steeling himself and looking back to you with a heavy sigh. “Back when you first came back to me… You said you might need space sometimes. Today… There was a lot that happened, I had to do some shit that I’m sure ain’t easy to watch and… baby, if you need some distance from me…” 

“Joel,” you said softly, twisting in his gentle hold so your front was pressed against his. You reached up and trailed your fingers through his curls. 

“Want to give you whatever it is you need,” he said as your hands came to rest on his broad chest. He took your wrist gently in his palm and brought it to his lips pressing a kiss into your pulse point. “Even if that’s time away from me.” 

“I don’t want that,” you said. “I just want to know you’re here.” 

He pulled you a little closer, the hand that was on your wrist trailing down your arm before curling around your back. 

“Why don’t we go get cleaned up,” he said, voice low, before leading you upstairs. 

You undressed each other while the shower warmed up. You unbuttoned his shirt slowly, methodically, running your fingers over his bared chest before pressing your lips into him there. You examined the place on his arm where the bullet had grazed him, the cut already scabbing over. 

“You got lucky,” you said, your fingers tracing over the older scars on his body before you kissed just below the new one. 

“Been a lot luckier than I deserve for a while now,” he said quietly. 

Once Joel undressed you, you took his hand and led him into the water. You cleaned him gently, lathering the soap in your hands before running them over his skin, cleaning the blood and dirt from his body and finding every mark on him that you’d gotten to know so well. He washed you in return, his large hands cupping your breasts, trailing over your stomach, your arms, cupping you between your legs with tender care. When you were both clean, you wrapped your arms around his neck and pressed your slick, wet body against his own. His cock - half hard and thick - nestled against your stomach. 

“C’mon baby,” he said, tilting your head so he could look in your eyes while his nose brushed your own. “Let me take you to bed. Don’t want to rush this with you and don’t trust my bum leg to let me take my time in here.” 

You smiled a little and kissed him. 

“Promise you’ll take me to a lake this summer?” You asked. “Because I really want to fuck you in the water.” 

He closed his eyes and laughed, low and needy. 

“Promise, baby.” 

You kissed him again. 

“Then take me to bed.” 

Joel reached behind you to turn off the water and wrapped you securely in a towel before running one quickly through his curls and over his own slick body. You enjoyed the view for a moment - the muscle of his arms and chest, the soft and welcoming swell of his stomach - before starting off toward the bedroom, dropping your towel halfway down the hall and looking back over your shoulder to catch your husband staring at you as you did. 

It didn’t take him long to join you, his hands on your waist soon after you were in your bedroom, turning you to face him. His cock was fully hard as he kissed you, his lips hot and needy against you. You arched into his touch, the feeling of him against you, the taste of him on your tongue. 

He pulled back from you just enough that you could look into his eyes, all molten hot and soft and open, his nose brushing yours, still breathing the same air. 

“Tell me how to take care of you,” he said softly. “Tell me what you need.” 

“Just you,” you said, voice breathy and trembling. “I need to feel you, I need you close.” 

His mouth swallowed your words as he nudged you back down onto the bed. He arranged you in the middle of it, his skin never far from yours, before he settled in the cradle of your hips. His thick length pressed against your slit, making you moan as he kissed down your shoulder to your breast, taking the firm, pebbled part of you into his mouth and sucking you gently. You whimpered, grinding your hips against him. He kissed over your swell of flesh to your breast bone before looking up at you there, his gaze hot and desperate. 

“Needy, are you?” He all but growled before pressing another kiss to your chest. “Don’t worry baby, I’ll take real good care of you. Just let me enjoy you first.” 

He worked his way to your other breast, sucking you there while he cupped and gently toyed with the other one, his cock rocking against your core the whole time. You could feel your pussy starting to drip for him, your grasping entrance desperate for something to hold. 

“Please Joel,” you panted, working your hips up against him as best you could with the weight of him holding you still. “I need you, please, please…” 

He pulled his mouth from your nipple with a reluctant groan before adjusting his hips, your clit throbbing in protest of the loss of contact for a moment before you felt his head notch against your entrance. Joel hovered over you, the soft skin of his chest and stomach ghosting over yours, one of his hands coming to cradle the crown of your head, his thumb tracing tenderly along the peak of your hairline. 

“What do you need?” He asked, sounding nearly breathless himself. “What’s my pretty, perfect wife need, hm?” 

“You,” you whimpered. You didn’t really care if you sounded pathetic, you needed Joel too much. “Inside me, please, please…” 

“Don’t worry baby,” he said. “Give you exactly what you need, always gonna take care of you.” 

You felt him press into you then, his cock opening your tight channel as he sank into you. You closed your eyes and arched into the familiar, pleasant burn of the stretch of him followed by the almost shocking fullness when he was fully sheathed within you. He stilled there for a moment, your body adjusting to his size, and you could feel all of him. He was so close like this, closer than anyone else had ever been. Your body held onto his, your thighs around his hips, hands over his chest, pussy stretched taut over his cock. You could feel every breath he took, every throb of his cock within you. He was yours like this, yours and yours alone. 

“This what you needed?” His voice trembled. You could only nod. He pulled back from you and you whimpered before he thrust back in with a grunt. “Good. Always give you what you need, baby, always.” 

He fucked you hard and slow, his thrusts almost bruising in their force and making your hands leave his chest to twist and tangle in the blankets as your orgasm built. He set his aching rhythm, his tongue sweeping into your mouth and devouring all your needy, fucked out sounds.

Your whole being was drawn in tight and hot when he laced his fingers with yours, pinning your hand to the bed. 

“C’mon baby,” Joel panted as he thrust into you deep and hard. “Let me feel you, just let go for me. You’re OK, you’re here with me, just give in. I’ve got you, baby. Take care of you, just give in, just come for me. Just come.” 

You pressed your hips up against him and came, your fingers tightening around his as your pussy pulsed and throbbed and he fucked you through it. 

Joel didn’t last long, though. Your climax had barely begun to ease when he pressed himself deep and came with a strangled cry. He kissed you as he finished before collapsing onto you for a moment, the heavy weight of him soothing and centering as you came back down to Earth. 

After a minute, he pulled himself gently from your fucked out body and lay beside you, still panting for breath as he watched you next to him. You rolled to face him and pressed yourself close, burying your face in his chest that smelled like soap from the shower with a hint of sweat from what happened after. His hand brushed over your hair and down your back in a gentle, easy cadence. He pressed a kiss into the crown of your head and you felt him take a deep breath, his nose nuzzled into your hair. 

“You with me?” He asked softly. You nodded into his chest. “How’re you feelin’?” 

“After that?” You teased lightly. “I’m great.” 

He chuckled. 

“Not what I meant, love.” 

You took a deep breath, taking the centering scent of Joel into yourself. 

“I don’t know,” you said quietly. “I guess I just… I kept thinking raiders were far away from here. Sure, they were out there, we ran into them sometimes, but they weren’t a problem. Not really. But they’re not, they’re right there and I…” your voice cracked and he pulled you tighter. 

“I know, sweetheart,” he whispered. “M’sorry.” 

“Savvy’s here now,” you said, trying to keep yourself from crying. “Ellie… she goes out there. And now you do, too, and… I know I sound like a goddamn broken record but I cannot survive losing any of you. I can’t. And they just take, they take and take and they won’t stop until there’s nothing left and…” 

You buried your face in his chest, not able to keep going. 

“It won’t be like that this time,” he whispered. “You’re not doing this alone. I’ve got you and anyone who wants to even glance at you or our girls will have to go through me. And good luck keepin’ me from coming home to you.” 

You laughed once at that, the sound thick and wet. 

“I’m going to protect you, Bambi,” he said, his tone serious now. “I promise you. I’ll keep you safe. I’ll keep us all safe.” 

Next Chapter

A/N: I dunno guys, I feel like something might be about to happen.

Could just be me, though.

👀👀👀👀

Thank you, as always, for reading. I really can't say how much it means to me that you're here, that you're so kind and supportive, that you choose to spend your time with this story. I appreciate it so much.

Love you!

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[greenandsorrow]

~Her man child~

Headcanons 📺

Vox is the definition of a manchild and I think it's kinda obvious.

He's the mean kind, acting with so much spite, sometimes without it being necessary or justified.

He NEEDS to be taken seriously. He tries so hard, blurring the lines between respect, fear and tolerance.

But when you two are alone... the telly-head man is a whiny boy.

He complains like it's a form of art. You can't help but roll your eyes playfully when he lets out a too loud sigh, but after doing so you're always ready to give him all the reassurance and attention he desperately craves.

Your man prefers being the little spoon. He's like a lap cat.

If anyone finds out about his cuddly nature, he's gonna die a second time...

Vox feels the need to constantly prove himself to Velvette and Valentino, but with you he feels safe. He can be overly emotional. And weak. And needy.

Very needy.

If you're not somewhere behind the camera admiring him and boosting his confidence, his day is ruined.

Grumpy, grumpy, grumpy.

In the mornings he doesn't even turn on his screen... settling for the protection setting instead.

You have to be patient with him.

Bring him a steaming cup of coffee and hug him from behind and he might as well start giggling like a schoolgirl.

He's too sensitive for harsh jokes. Being in Hell means ONLY dark and cruel humour, but Vox can't take it sometimes.

His ego is fragile.

In order to feel loved, Vox has to be showered in extravagant compliments on a daily basis. Whether it's about his appearance, his job, his amazing and very interesting personality... He needs them.

When you tell him he's better than the radio demon.... he literally gets rock hard.

Vox is in a constant dilemma between showing you off for all Pentagram City to know you're his, or keeping you secret.

It's the same as a boy with his favourite toy. If other kids see his toy, he's gonna have to share.

What if someone steals his favourite toy?! Or even worse... BREAK IT?!

That being said, he doesn't objectify you, but he's terrible at showing affection or appreciation.

He's gonna be there for you, help you with anything you need, laugh with you, spend quality time with you. Still, deep communication is a difficult subject for him.

Thank god you're observant enough to catch all the messages he tries to pass to you.

Such an attention seeker though.

Have you ever seen a six year old trying to impress his crush?

Just look at Vox trying to woo you. It's the same thing.

But he's not that bad... His self-esteem is an obstacle alright, but he becomes a rug for you to step on and use as you wish most of the time.

Vox would definitely go out of his way if you asked something from him. You're his rock. It's the least he can do.

The guy even whimpers in his sleep.

Vox loves to fill his hands with your thighs when it's bed time. They're warm and soothing to him, like stress toys. Being a walking television has its disadvantages temperature wise.

He would bend you over and take you in front of a mirror so he could see himself while at it, but he hasn't done so yet. He wants to ask you beforehand and make sure it won't make you feel weird.

Vox is easy to rile up. A breathy compliment and a squeeze of his thigh and he's more than ready to go.

He doesn't actually feel dominant, but he tries to act like it. This Vee member has the stereotype man = dominance engraved in his subconsciousness and so he fights to live up to it.

But between you and me... Treat him like an inexperienced and innocent boy and he'll be crying out in pleasure.

Aka... be a femdom. Even a soft one. You won't even have to try that much.

Another thing. Vox is loud. (Like his name implies 🫣)

He also pants a lot. Almost like he's hyperventilating.

Unlike Alastor, this man is very insecure about both his performance and... size.

I'm not saying he's lacking in either though. It's just how his mind works. Always comparing himself to his opponents and in this case, his opponents are other men that could perhaps satisfy you more thoroughly than him.

Allow me to say that he fucks in an anxious way. Hands shaking and his mantra "Does that feel good to you darling?"

You just need to praise him a little. (A lot)

He doesn't last that long but he'll be sure to rub your clit so you don't either.

When it gets too real, he tears up at the end, like a baby that's holding back from crying. But you're there to hold him until he calms down.

He's usually too tired (and still nervous) afterwards for proper aftercare. Vox likes to be babied though. It's more personal attention after all.

Oh to be cleaned up and tucked to bed! Only then will he feel comfortable enough to run his fingers through your hair and mumble a faint thank you.

Vox's head has a bit of an awkward shape for cunnilingus. However, he has a surprisingly long tongue that can reach more than enough to have you moaning out how good of a boy he's being.

He usually cums in his pants while eating you out.

And when you return the favour it's usually to relieve his stress at work. He feels like a teenager when you do it. It's an act of service, really.

He low-key fucks your face, not enough to choke you but you do gag around him. It makes him feel in control. It makes him feel like a man.

To sum up, Vox is a bit dependent on you and on your validation, but he would never hurt you or become too overbearing.

He's needy, but not stupid.

He is the definition of a manchild and I think I proved my point.

But he's your manchild sis!

Support a struggling university student! Thank you so so much🫶 CLICK HERE (PayPal link)

my masterlist || Hazbin Hotel masterlist 🦷

~~~

Vox divider by @rubra-wav

Support divider by @cafekitsune

The explicit content one... I don't remember :(

~~~

[mikkomacko]

loved the blurb it was amazing!!! you should do something about how reader convinces nico to get john to the devs! only if you want to ofc😘

Nico is in the back office of Sötis, renewing and updating his business registration and licenses when you come in.

Jesper usually handles these types of things but he had a baker call out sick this morning and was currently in the kitchen filling in, so Nico offered to cover for him.

Payroll and paperwork can be a bitch, and they take up most of the day, so it was better to just get it out of the way rather than push it to next week. And he gets to enjoy the smell of coffee and sweets in the oven.

“Ya know,” you say thoughtfully, “if Jesp really wanted to drive business in, he’d put the pretty things up front, not in the back office.”

Nico looks up from the computer, finds you leaning in the doorway. You’re dressed in a pair of loose jeans and Uggs, one of his already oversized hoodies swallowing your torso and bunching up on the curve of your hips.

You so look so fucking cute. Hands hiding behind your back and a sweet little smile on your glossy lips.

“Well if it isn’t my favorite little distraction,” he teases, leaning back in the rolling chair and shutting the laptop. You push off the doorway, slowly trailing towards the desk. Your hands stay hidden behind you and he raises a curious eyebrow.

“Distraction?” You round the desk, Nico swiveling the chair to follow you. “Is that all I am?”

Parting his thighs, you effortlessly slip into his lap, Nico’s hands finding your hips. He notices the careful way you move, turning just slightly to keep whatever you’re hiding from his line of sight.

“Amongst other things.”

Nico leans in, chest aching impatiently as you meet him halfway and press those beautiful lips to his. You cup the back of his neck, fingertips threading through his hair and pull him in even closer. Ironically, he’s so distracted by you that he doesn’t even notice the laminated book you’ve placed on the desk until he’s having to part from you.

“Are you busy?”

He shakes his head softly. “For you? Never.”

“Have you eaten today?”

Nico pecks a chaste kiss to your jaw. “Was actually gonna call and see if you wanted to meet me for lunch. Timo too if he’s with you.”

You laugh. “Oh he’s already behind the counter stealing croissants.”

“Just you and me then, huh?” He smirks, and your mirror it, nodding slowly.

“Can I talk to you about something first?”

Nico blinks, taken aback by the little bit of nerves in your tone. You’re never nervous with him, he doesn’t want you to be nervous with him.

“Of course baby,” he assures, rubbing soothing circles into your lower back. “What’s up?”

You press a sweet kiss to his cheek, reaching onto the desk to slide the surprise you brought with you to him. Nico looks over your shoulder, surprised to see what looks like an official business deal, the cover reading “The Steel Deal” in big black letters.

“What is this?” He asks, fingers itching to grab the book and flip through it. But this is your thing and you seem really anxious to show it to him, so he’s gonna let you take a second.

“My first ever project as a Dev,” you say, a bit shy but when he looks over you’re smiling down at it proudly. “Or I guess deal, not project.”

Nico laughs, tries to ignore how much he wants to just say yes already. He wonders if you know, probably not judging by the fact that you went through the hassle to present a deal to him. But he’d say yes to you no matter what. He doesn’t need whatever plan and outcomes you’ve mocked up.

Whatever you want, he’d make happen.

“Alright,” he says instead. “Sell it to me.”

You flip open the first page and he almost dies at the FaceTime screenshot image of none other than John fucking Marino staring back at him.

“This is Johnny,” you introduce, like he doesn’t already know. For months now all he’s heard about is Johnny. “He’s a Peng, but I think he’d be much more suited as a Dev.”

Oh, Nico wasn’t expecting that one. He thought maybe it was some idea you had about wanting to go see him in Pittsburgh, some kind of trip you were planning and wanted Timo to escort you on.

No this is a Devils contract deal. You want him to join the family. Nico internally cringes, already hearing Crosby’s bitching and moaning if he were to ask for this deal to go through.

God how is Nico gonna make this one work out?

You flip to the middle of the booklet, an amazingly designed chart and noteworthy points decorating the pages. Nico looks closer, realizes that you’ve managed to get your hands on every single job Johnny has done with the Penguins. You’ve analyzed it all; the statistics of which jobs have better outcomes for him, which ones he excels at, the dirty work Sid and Geno have him do, everything.

Intrigued and impressed, Nico flips to scan the next four pages. You’ve got even more stats on him, even going back to the classes and sports he did at Harvard.

A hockey player, Nico thinks, just like the rest of them.

“He does a shit ton of work for Sid, probably even stuff he’s over qualified for,” you explain, “but it’s all outside of what he’s best at. Medical, surveillance, and rat work. He can get into almost any building undetected. And he gets everyone else in too.”

Nico hums. You’re right, Johnny is the best at the grunt work. Grunt work that isn’t suited for the type of city Pittsburgh is.

“They don’t need him like that there, though.” You continue, and Nico can feel you looking at him carefully, gauging his reaction. “The Devs do. He’s our best shot at keeping up with Lee and Trouba, he’s too quick and sneaky for either of them.”

He leans back in the chair, not needing to see anymore. You’ve convinced him. Hell you convinced him as soon as you asked.

But the real problem is convincing Sid, and figuring out if the kid is worth everything Sid is gonna ask for. Nico will try everything he can to make this happen for you, but he can’t guarantee it won’t come without a great loss. For all they know, Sid could ask for Timo or Alex in return, both men he knows you’re not willing to give up.

“I can get you Johnny,” Nico agrees tentatively, and you lean into his chest, eyes wide and eager. “But I don’t know if you’ll like what Sid is gonna ask for him.”

“He won’t-“

“Baby,” Nico says gently. “These deals are rougher than you think. This isn’t goods or product, this is manpower. And loyalty. What is Sid asks for Timo?”

You shake your head, grabbing the book and laying it out over your thighs.

“I talked to Sid and Johnny, I have the deal Nico. Look…”

You’ve surprised him a lot today. But not as great as this. The back of the book has an information page on a man Nico hasn’t laid his eyes on in years. A member of the Devs but not in practice.

Ty Smith.

“Timo told me about him, and then I asked Jack and yeah.” You explain. “Sid would be willing to swap Johnny for Ty Smith, and then he’s gonna turn Ty for some young guy in Carolina.

“Jack said Ty would be willing to be bought out in Carolina, get out of the business entirely. Maybe he’d do behind the scenes stuff there but he’s tired of the city.”

Nico looks over at you, chest swelling with pride. You’re a natural. Sure it seems Timo and Jack helped, but those two are awful at deals not negotiated by Nico before hand. Meaning this plan was all you, and it’s doable. Completely doable.

It’s probably even for the best. Ty had been asking Nico to let him buy him out, but the price he’d have to set would be too high for the poor guy. So he’s just been hiding out in Jersey City for years, waiting until the Devs were big enough to drop him.

“You talked to Sid?” He asks, biting his cheek to keep from smiling. He’s at least gotta pretend this took a little effort for him to give into.

“Yeah,” you assure. “And Johnny. He wants to come here Nico, said it feels more like his home than Pittsburgh does.”

“And you want him here?”

Your gaze flickers, something heavy settling in them like you’re caught up in a memory. Nico would guess it’s something from Philly, but he can’t be sure when it comes to Johnny. You like the kid because he reminds you of your family. Because you get to speak your familial language and reconnect with your past when you talk to Johnny.

That’s always been the one thing Nico couldn’t give you.

And now he can.

“Yeah I do,” you murmur, meeting his gaze again, eyes glossy. “He’s-he’s family to me.”

Nico takes the book from you and closes it, placing it back on the desk. He brushes your hair behind your ear, cupping your cheek.

“Ok,” he agrees, easily. “I’ll talk to Sid tomorrow. Tell him we’re good on the deal, and then I’ll let Ty know.”

“Really?”

Nico laughs. “You really think I’d tell you no?”

Blush creeps up onto your cheeks. “Well no but I thought I’d have to grovel more. Or you’d be mad I did this without talking to you first.”

He squishes your cheek and nudges your nose with him. “Aw my little mafiosa, m’not mad. Impressed actually.”

Nico can almost feel the way you buzz under his praise. “I did a good job?”

“Good?” He scoffs. “You did better than half the putz’s here do. I don’t know how you found all this information or how to put it together but I’m so fucking proud of you.”

You giggle bashfully, eyes scrunching and he kisses you again. And again. And maybe for a couple more moments too.

And then you pull away, hand on his chest and fingering at his pendant. “I stole your work files,” you say innocently, batting your eyelashes at him.

Nico frowns, tries to think of the last time he saw those files in his office at the house. He hasn’t gone looking for them in a while. He can’t even tell you where the key to that drawer is.

Well now he can, he thinks. It’s with you.

“You’re good at this minx,” he chuckles. “Sure you don’t want be boss?”

“No,” you say certainly. “I just want Johnny.”

[kdogreads]

Ooh I thought of one tony flirting with ny not knowing she's married to or dateing Gibbs.

SUCH A GOOD IDEA!! I hope you enjoy! :)

Check my masterlist for more indulgent Gibbs fics and follow #kdogreads to keep up on my newest posts! 💕

———

Are You Done?

Jethro Gibbs x f!reader

Warnings: just some flirty, jealous-ish fluff

“Ziva, Tony, McGee,” The honey-smoked voice you’d grown to love boomed across the bullpen, “On your feet — Someone for you to meet.”

The team gathered near where you stood alongside Jethro. All three sent reluctant smiles your way until Gibbs began to speak again. He introduced you formally with your first and last name, and the uninspiring title of “The new HR rep.”

Great, you thought, they’re gonna hate me already.

“Ha-alright,” Tony stuck his hand out to shake yours energetically, “It’s good to have another pretty face to share all my work problems with. Hey, you know, that new guy in legal is really getting under my skin; he’s so—“

“DiNozzo,” Jethro cut in, “Let her settle in before you start bellyaching, huh?”

You all let out a chuckle and the team retreated back to their desks. Jethro shot you a quick grin and nodded towards a nearby hallway before escorting you to your new office.

The next few hours went along as well as they could for the first day at a new job. You met your new coworkers, started to learn your way around the office, and took note of where the handsome Special Agent Gibbs spent most of his time.

——

As the evening wound down, you made your way back to where your day began to check in with investigative team — they had been the most welcoming to you all day, so you decided to make it a point to get to know them all better.

You weren’t surprised to see the whole crew still hard at work. Ziva was on and off the phone consistently, speaking a different language each time she started a new conversation. McGee seemed too engrossed in his screen and keyboard to notice the outside world. Tony was leaned back in his chair, slouched in a leisurely pose, going through some files that were overflowing with papers spilling out onto his lap.

Then there was Jethro. He looked stoic as ever with a few papers spread out over his desk, his gaze shifting from the neatly stacked documents to his computer screen and back again. His hand drifted over to his ever-full cup of coffee without taking his eyes away from his work. It was only when he placed the cup back into its spot in the corner of his desk that he noticed you entering their shared workspace.

The way he announced your name in greeting caused a smile to creep involuntarily across your face.

A simple, “Hi,” is all you could muster as you tried to gain your composure back.

“Ready to quit yet?” He quipped with that shit-eating grin you love so much spreading across his face.

You simply scoffed in response as he pulled up an extra chair for you to sit next to his desk and decompress. The quiet hum of the air conditioning was nearly lulling you to sleep until Tony made his way over and stopped in front of you, one arm leaning on a shelf and looking your way.

“Hey HR, how was your first day?” He asked you honestly, but you could see the wheels of flirtation spinning in his mind.

“It’s been,” You took a deep breath in and motioned to the stack of files spilling out of your bag, “A lot to take in.”

Tony chuckled and took a step closer to you, leaning in to pat you gently on the shoulder affectionately.

“A smart, beautiful woman like you?” He exhaled quickly like there was something hot in his mouth, “You can handle that and more, I’m sure of it.”

You smiled and shot him an, “Oh, thanks.” Jethro had warned you about Tony, and you just couldn’t wait to see how far he would let it go on before his protectiveness kicked into high gear. You swore you could almost feel the heat Jethro was giving off as jealousy crept up into his chest.

Tony went on picking your brain, polite as ever, but with a hint of playfulness that you knew had to be driving your boyfriend crazy.

“So,” Tony began after laughing about your shared love of coffee creamer more so than coffee, “What does your boyfriend do for a living?”

You hadn’t disclosed that you were in a relationship, but it was his age-old way of prying to see how much further he could take his flirting.

“He’s actually a federal agent, too, kinda like you,” You let your lips curl in a smirk and raised your eyebrows at him, taunting him to keep asking more questions.

“Oohh, so you like ‘em a little rough around the edges, huh?” The two of you laughed before he kept poking for more information, “So what is he? FBI? CIA? Don’t tell me it’s Secret Service?”

“Mmhmm, something like that,” You teased, leaning forward to grab a sip of your coffee, “Can’t spill all my secrets just yet, Tony.”

You heard Jethro let out a scoff, his finger tapping rapidly on his pen as the impatience invaded his senses more and more. He fidgeted a bit with a file before abruptly standing up, sending his chair flying back into the divider wall behind him, and took off somewhere around the corner.

“Jeez,” Tony grumbled, “He’s always in a bad mood.”

You exhaled sharply and grinned, “I’m sure he isn’t always be in a bad mood.”

Tony flashed his charming, pearly smile and shook his head endearingly, “You don’t know Gibbs like I do, sweetheart.”

You returned a salacious smile while Tony adjusts his stance to lean his relaxed frame closer to you. Your eyes lifted to meet his, a spirited glint in your eye as you see a handsome figure appear in the very corner of your peripheral.

“So, HR, I know a great Thai food place just down the road, whatcha say I take you there, show you some of our NCIS hospitality?” He grins confidently awaiting your answer, which he just knows will be a resounding “yes.”

Tony straightens up quickly as a sharp whap hits him in the back of the head. Your eyes widen in surprise, but crinkle into a laugh as soon as the realization hits you.

“DiNozzo,” The booming voice you’d come to know growled from behind Tony’s terrified face, “Are you done?”

“Ow! Sorry boss! Just talking, ah. Done with what again, sir?” He rubbed the back of his head and tried to shake off the embarrassment of being scolded by the boss in front of a woman he was trying to impress. He slinked back a step, allowing Jethro’s strong frame to come all the way into your view. His body language oozing with possessiveness and nerve.

“Done flirting with my woman,” He growled, his intensity stirring a fire deep within your belly.

You wished you’d had a camera in your hand to capture the look of sheer terror on Tony’s face. A laugh spilled out of your lips as he stuttered out something akin to an apology, an explanation, anything to keep Jethro from kicking him right in the ass.

You stood up to grant Jethro a quick peck on his rough lips before tucking into his shoulder, his hand placed firmly on your lower back.

“I’m sorry I let you keep going, Tony,” You apologized with a hint of sarcasm in your voice, “I just couldn’t help myself.” A deep, grumbling scoff vibrated out of Jethro’s chest as he shook his head, fighting desperately to keep a smirk from creeping onto his lips.

It was only now you thought to look around, realizing with a blush that everyone in the room was staring at you, eyes glued to this unfortunate and hilarious confrontation. You felt embarrassed for only a moment before Tony cleared his throat, his face still beet red and wide-eyed.

“It won’t happen again, boss and, uh, ma’am — boss ma’am, Mrs. boss, uh—“ Tony was back to his stumbling apology. You couldn’t help but let another laugh dance from your lips.

“Tony, you can still call by my name,” You smiled placing a reassuring pat on his shoulder, “Right, Jethro?” You shot him a look with a raised eyebrow, signaling him to cut Tony a break.

Jethro only hummed a soft “mmmhhmm” before clapping his hand softly to your back, pressing gently to guide you toward the elevator. You gratefully leaned into his touch and waved goodbye to the still-staring team.

“All of you, back to work, now,” Jethro demanded with force, and you had to stifle back the giggle threatening to escape. Everyone hurriedly opened their files and picked up their phones, not daring to piss Gibbs off any more.

The act dropped the second you stepped into the elevator. That deliciously snarky smile you love snaked onto Jethro’s face as he yanked you into a steamy kiss, laughing into your parted lips.

“Brat,” He growled into your ear, his hot breathe sending a shiver down your spine.

“You love it,” You tease back.

He tucks you into him for another quick embrace as the elevator comes to a stop just outside the parking garage. His lips brush quickly over your temple before sliding his hand down to intertwine while the elevator doors start to creak open.

“Yes, ma’am, I do”

[bbrissonn]

𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐦𝐞 - 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐬𝐦𝐢𝐭𝐡

☆⋆｡°‧★ in which the two teenagers make their feelings about the other clear

☆⋆｡°‧★ will smith x dahlia monroe

☆⋆｡°‧★ wc: 2.5k

☆⋆｡°‧★ au masterlist

it had now been almost week since dahlia and will's pizza dinner. the two freshmen had hung out pretty much everyday since then. meeting in the library right before the boy had to go to practice, meeting for dinner after, and if they were not together, they were always texting.

tonight, the eagles were hosting michigan state. they were playing on a thursday, which dahlia did not really understand since they always played during the weekend. the two had agreed to meet up at a small cafe before will had to start getting ready.

"hey." the boy said, sitting down next to the girl. she had been sitting at a long table against the window, giving her a perfect view of all the trees turning beautiful shades of reds, oranges and yellows. she had been so busy writing down her notes that she had not even noticed the boy walking in.

"hi." she answered with a smile as will handed her a coffee, pressing a small kiss to her temple before letting his eyes look down at her notes.

"what on earth is that?"

"it's for my african world class."

"and you actually understand half the words you're writing down?" the boy asked confused as he started reading her notes. her handwriting was messy, but perfect at the same time.

"yes, william, i do. unlike you, when i go to class, i listen to what my teachers say instead of sleeping and asking someone who's not even in my class for help." the girl sassed, taking her notes away from him.

for the last couple of days, their library meeting had mainly been tutoring sessions for the boy. dahlia was somehow capable of picking up with he was learning for his major quicker than he was. her statement earned her a glare from the boy besides her.

"it's not my fault i got stuck with all the early classes."

"but it is your fault for being tired because you stayed up late."

"i stay up late because of you!" he reasoned, making the girl scoff.

"i'm not forcing you to stay up and talk to me, will. if you're tired just go sleep. i'm not gonna die."

"whatever." the boy mumbled. he turned his body so he was facing the window, a small pout on his face as he crossed him arms over his chest.

"don't pout." dahlia said, poking his check and kissing it. "you're too pretty to pout, willy." she added without realizing what she was saying. will's pout became a smirk as his eyes looked over at hers.

"you think i'm pretty?"

"shut up." the girl blushed, looking away as will let out a chuckle. one of his arm went to the back of her chair as he moved to he was facing her.

"don't be shy now!" he said, his smirk still present on his face. still, the girl did not move or say anything else, making will chuckle slightly. "alright, alright, we'll talk about something else. how was your day?"

"fine." the girl mumbled, her eyes looking up from her lap, but still avoiding the boy's gaze.

"you had your favourite class today, i doubt it was just fine, dahls." the boy pushed, making dahlia roll her eyes while butterflies flew around in her stomach. she loved it when he called her that.

"i got paired for a project with one of the dumbest guy i've ever met. he's so full of himself." the girl complained with an eye roll as her mind went back to the conversation she had with him earlier. he had made it quite clear that he wanted to do the least work possible since he was so busy with lacrosse.

"switch partners?"

"already tried. my professor said if i want to switch i have to find someone who wants to switch. no one wanted to, and i understand why." the girl sighed before sipping on her coffee. it was going to be a long couple of weeks.

"i'm sorry." the boy frowned. he knew dahlia took her studies very seriously, and this guy was clearly not going to be of any help to her.

"don't be. at least we're getting individual grades, so if he does nothing it's going to be his problem. we'll just get a shitty one for the presentation part."

"well, if it makes you feel any better, i'm sure you're gonna get an amazing grade. like always." the boy said with a soft smile, making the girl look over at him with a smile of her own.

"you guys winning would make feel a little better too."

"oh, so now you care about sports?"

"no." the girl laughed. "but if you guys lose again, you'll be all moody like last week and-"

"i wasn't moody!" will exclaimed, cutting the girl off. dahlia let out a giggle as she looked over at him with a shocked expression.

"you totally were! you were frowning the whole night until we got to eat."

"i was hungry." the smith boy said, trying his hardest to defend himself.

"more like hangry." dahlia whispered under he breath, making will send a playful glare her way.

"whatever." he sassed, making dahlia chuckle. "we're winning tonight, i can feel it."

｡ﾟ•┈୨♡୧┈• ｡ﾟ

dahlia's voice rang loudly in violette's ears had the final buzzer echoed in the forum. the guys had won 6-4 against the spartans, will getting a goal and two assists. the two teens had agreed to meet up at the same spot as they did last time after game, violette sending a wink towards her best friend as the two parted ways.

after almost fourty minutes of waiting, the blond boy eventually appeared. dahlia was quick to make her way to him, a wide grin on her face. she was wearing a plain eagles sweatshirt with a pair of jeans, she looked adorable, but will really wished she was wearing his jersey instead.

the hockey player felt butterflies in his stomach as her arms wrapped around his neck, her giggle echoing in his ear as he picked her up slightly. her perfume was the only thing he could smell, and he was obsessed with it. he did not really know what the sent was exactly, but it was soft and comforting to him.

"you did amazing, oh my god!" she grinned as will put her down, but that did not mean their hug ended. instead, the smith boy brought the girl even closer to him, if that was even possible.

"yeah?"

"yeah! and you guys won!"

"i'm really glad you're here, dahls." the boy whispered after a couple of seconds of silence. dahlia smiled against his neck, her arms holding him even tighter than before. "means a lot."

"you make it to not wanna come, wills. you're amazing, like really amazing." the girl answered, making the boy pull back a bit, but their arms stayed around the other.

"to be honest, i've been trying a lot harder the last couple of games." he said, making dahlia confused.

"why?"

"there's a pretty girl i'm trying to impress." will flirted, leaning his forehead down to meet dahlia's. he had a wide grin on his face as dahlia's eyes avoided his, a deep blush appearing on her cheek.

"yeah?"

"yeah. think it's working?"

"i think... she wants you to kiss her." the girl said, catching both of them off guard. dahlia had never ever said something so straight forward to a guy before, especially not something like this. one of will's hand moved from her waist to her face, cupping her cheek.

"is she sure?" the blond asked, leaning down even further to the point where their lips were inches away.

"100%" she responded, and the next second, will's lips were on hers. dahlia's hand slide down from his neck and down his chest, holding onto his suit vest.

the two teenagers both smiled into the kiss, keeping the other as close as possible, before eventually pulling away slightly to catch their breaths. will was the first to open his eyes, staring down in adoration at the girl who's wide grin, made her whole face glow.

"hi." dahlia giggled once she opened her eyes the find the boy staring at her. will chuckled slightly before reconnecting their lips again, the hand that was on her face going back down to her waist and keeping her close. meanwhile, the girl's hand went back to his neck, pulling him down a little more.

"my parents are waiting." the boy mumbled sadly when they pulled away once again. the girl frowned a bit before cupping both of his cheeks in her hands.

"coffee tomorrow?" she asked, placing a soft kiss to the tip of his nose.

"it's a date." he stated, making the girl raise her brows at him.

"and who decided that?"

"me."

"and what if i don't want it to be a date?" she sassed, making will chuckle a bit.

"then you're lying to yourself, sweetie." he answered with just as much sassed before placing on last kiss on her lips. "text me when you get home."

"call me when you get home?"

"of course."

｡ﾟ•┈୨♡୧┈• ｡ﾟ

"can i ask you something?" will questioned the next morning. the two were sitting in the same spot as the previous day, but this time no notes were splattered in front of them.

"what's up?"

"you don't have to yes if you don't want to, like i'm not trying to pressure you into doing it if you don't want to, so don't-"

"just ask me, will." the girl cut him off softly, placing a hand on his thigh, making him blush slightly. the boy nodded a bit before finally asking his question.

"can you- do you..." he started, but nothing else came out, making him sigh. dahlia's hand from his thigh to his hand, squeezing it softly to reassure him. "wear my jersey tonight?" he finally asked, his eyes staring into hers.

she was supposed to be happy, jumping in her seat that he asked her to wear his jersey. there were tons of girls on campus who would die to be in her position right now, and she knew that. a hot rookie who was drafted in the nhl? of course everyone knew who he was, which meant almost every girl who dreamed of marrying an athlete was after him.

but for some reason, she felt her stomach drop, and not in the good way. they had barely known each other for a week, and kissed, which dahlia still could not believe she initiated. it was all going so fast.

"i- uh... i appreciate you asking, will, i really do. i just... i think i'm ready for that yet. i mean, i want to, i really do, but i just feel like we're going too fast, will." she explained, her eyes looking down at her lap as her hands meet together, fidgeting with one another. the two sat in silence for almost a whole minute until will placed a hand on her back.

"that's okay. we can slow down, i'm sorry i've been too pushy-"

"you weren't. i promise, i just... i don't know." she sighed looking up from her lap, but still avoiding his gaze.

"talk to me, dahls." will whispered softly, making the girl let out another sigh.

"i've never... i've never really experienced this before. i mean, i've been in a relationship and all that stuff, the guy was an asshole though. he only texted me before we dated, so this stuff is all new to me. and like, i saw everyone at school experiencing it, and i wanted it to be so badly. and it's finally happening to me, and honestly i don't really get why."

"what do you mean?"

"come on, will. you're this bigshot future star and i am just me. i'm gonna my degree and then work for the next i don't how many years. why me?" she explained. when the girl got home the previous night, she could not believed what had happened, nor why it happened. she suddenly found herself growing insecure, she had barely ever gotten attention from guys, and now all of the sudden will could not get enough of her? it just did not make sense in her head.

"what if that's what i like about you? you're just you, dahlia. you have your dreams, and your goals, and you're gonna achieve all of them, i know that. you don't really care about the fact that i'm me, and i love that. i can be just me with you, not will smith the fourth pick, just will. you're the only that's ever made me feel like that." will admitted, his voice low and soft. his words made dahlia look over at him, their eyes locking together.

"i'm glad you feel you that way with me." she smiled, making the boy smile as well. "i like being around you, too. you make feel... special. no one's ever made me feel like that before, it's nice. it's nice that it's you." it was now her turn to admit. even though neither of them had directly said it, it was now clear to the both of them that they liked each other, and the other liked them.

"i'm happy i make you feel that way." will responded, making dahlia bite her lower lips as tons of thoughts ran through her mind. will could tell she was thinking, she always made that same face of centration when trying to figure out something.

"i'll wear your jersey." she stated, making will smiled even wider than before. "under one condition. kiss me." will laughed before leaning in a pressing a kiss to her lips. the two teens had been hesitating since they met up if it should happen or not, neither of them really knowing how the other felt.

but now it was clear. they liked each other, a lot, making this kiss mean so much more than the ones from the previous night. it was soft and gentle, just like voices a couple of minutes ago.

"and a sip of your coffee." the girl added when the two pulled apart. her voice barely being hearable, but will heard every word.

"that's two conditions."

"do you want me to wear the damn jersey or not?" she sassed, and the next thing she knew, will's coffee was in her hands.

"drink away."