#also she bought me lunch and i got us coffee today.. girl she brought me chicken satay !! 🤤

[translatemunson]

it always ends up with a town car speeding • ttfd

chapter six of the tortured firefighters department

previous chapter | masterlist | next chapter

cw: fem!reader, afab!reader, no descriptions of reader, mentions of food, 118 being a family, buck being a considerate friend, girls night with our favs (lmk if i missed something)

You checked your phone again and stared at the doughnut box you bought on your way to the firehouse. When you were leaving your shift, you heard one of your coworkers dispatching the 118 for an incident. Based on your calculations, it was enough time for you to drive to your coffee shop, get yourself some decaf latte and two boxes of doughnuts for the team and deliver it yourself at the firehouse.

However, forty minutes after your estimations, they were still nowhere to be seen. Or something worse happened, or they were just stuck in the midmorning traffic.

You held back the urge to text Buck and ask, but maybe he didn’t have his cellphone with him and would be a waste of time. So you turned on the volume of your headphones, your favorite playlist blasting, and closed your eyes, trying to remember all the concepts you’ve been studying over the week.

After your mental breakdown, you decided to put your life back on tracks again. You were back to work the graveyard shifts, while also attending classes and asking for deadline extensions from your professors, so you could at least have a shot at delivering decent papers and syllabus.

Did that mean you were always out of your house or buried in books? Yes, but this time you had friends making sure to check on you from time to time. Maddie was always reminding you to eat and take breaks — even when she wasn’t working the graveyard with you —, Hen gave you some notes from Karen old book’s in hopes they would be helpful — and most of them were —, Eddie and Buck were always inviting you to hang out, even if it was just for lunch. Besides Buck — who saw with his own eyes when you hit rock bottom —, they probably had a general idea of what was going on with you.

You didn’t hear the engine and the ambulance entering the garage — how could you when your favorite song was playing — and you were the one that ended up surprised by the 118.

“Oh my-,” you screamed when you felt your chair trip back. But before you could hit the floor, you were stopped mid fall, and Eddie was staring at you, kinda upside down, “Edmundo, you little piece of-”

“Nice to see you too, Brains. And you brought donuts?” He set your chair upright, and you saw Chim and Hen already picking one from the box. They waved, mouths already full with the treat. “What got you in such a good mood?”

“Definitely not you.” He reached for one, and you slapped his arm. “Put it down. Now.”

“Really?” He looked surprised, but he was just messing with you.

“You heard the lady, Eddie,” Buck finally showed up, a small towel in hand, cleaning the smoke particles from his face. “Oh, you brought doughnuts!”

If looks could kill, Eddie would’ve dropped dead. But now that Buck was here, your features softened and that strange sensation washed over you.

Something changed after the night he showed up at your door and helped you through your depressive episode — you started to use the real name of what that was. But you couldn’t quite point it out, thinking maybe it changed only in you, and he was still the same Evan Buckley you met weeks ago.

“Suit yourself, Buck.” You pushed the box further, keeping it away from Eddie.

“I thought you hated him.” He pointed.

“Hate is a strong word, Edmundo,” you took a sip of your coffee. “Besides, he didn’t scare me to death!”

“I’m on her good side now,” Buck admitted, proud of himself. If he knew that he was more than just on your good side, that he found his way inside your impenetrable fortress, he would use it to his advantage. “Thanks, Brains.”

“So, miss Halfway Through Her PhD, what brings you here today?” Chim pulled a chair and dipped back for a second donut. Buck went straight to the kitchen to pour himself a cup of coffee.

“Nothing, just wanted to drop by and share some treats before I go to class.”

“You’re a long way from Caltech,” Hen sat to your right, pushing Eddie away.

“Yes, ma’am, I know. By the way, one of my professors used to work with Karen, Mrs. Duncan.”

 “Don’t remember his name from our conversations, but I’ll tell her,” she smiled. “Also, she found a few more books in the basement, drop by to pick up any time.”

“Will do.” You opened your notes app to add it to your to do list, and checked the time. “I’d love to sit and catch up with you guys, but I have to leave if I want to make it in time,” you showed your phone screen, time ticking against you. “I left another box in the fridge, but don’t get used to it.”

“Can I have one now?” Eddie wouldn’t shut up one second. God, you needed to find him a date and get him laid.

“Fine, Diaz. But don’t you ever do that again.”

“Scouts honor,” he promised.

You grabbed your bag, ran down the stairs, waved Bobby goodbye — the captain was coming out of his office — and took a walk to your car, parked outside of the fire house.

“Hey, Brains!” You heard Buck calling you, and for a moment you thought you were reliving that fight at Eddie’s house. You stopped on your tracks, far enough from the fire house building to have some privacy. “We have to stop meeting like this.”

“Not my fault if you guys took longer than I estimated on that call,” you smiled.

“Was it you?”

“No, it was May, but I overheard her instructions.” You checked your bag for your key. “Was everyone ok?”

“Yeah, everyone’s fine,” Buck closed in the distance between you, and looked over his shoulder to the firehouse before asking, “How have you been feeling?”

“I’m better, Buck. Hmm, thanks for not telling them all the details about, you know, that thing,” you felt like stepping on eggshells, talking for the first time about what he did for you. When you woke up that next morning, you avoided the subject like the plague. “They really don’t need one more thing to worry about.”

“It never stopped them from caring, you know?”

“Yeah, I know.” You bit your lips and stared into your shoes. “Anyway, I’m sorry I blew you off last weekend, I had these tough exams and I spent all my free time studying. I really forgot to check my phone, and didn’t crossed my mind to tell you I was gonna be busy, so I’m-”

“Brains, it’s ok. Really.” He gently grabbed your arm, cutting your nervous talk short. “I assumed you were busy, that’s why I just let you be. And you promised me you’d tell me if things got bad, so I really get it. Even though I was never a good student.”

“Cut yourself some slack, Buck. You may not be good with math and science, but you got into LAFD, which is a huge thing.” And before he could say anything, you added, “I’ve seen the training program, it’s tough and demands a lot of intuition and assessing a scene quickly.”

“A compliment, Brains? Oh, I’m definitely on your good side now.”

“You’re unbelievable, Evan Buckley.” You pushed him, your hands placed in the middle of his chest. “If you excuse me, I need to run through LA traffic to get in time for class now.”

Your movements were a little awkward, like you’re both trying to dance the same song, but missing all the queues. You stepped aside, he opened the door for you and your hands touched, your bag fell to the floor and it was so like one of those romcoms moments. And you kept trying to avoid Buck’s eyes, which led you to almost step on his foot and bump into him multiple times.

“Don’t get yourself into an accident,” he said before closing the door for you. “I really don’t wanna be the one dragging your ass out of a mess.”

“Don’t worry, I’m a safe driver.”

“Hope your class doesn't suck.”

“Hope your shift is just saving cats from trees and helping elderly cross the street.” You avoided the Q-word, an old superstition from all dispatchers and first responders. “See ya, Buckley.”

+++

“I don’t think I can do it, that’s the problem,” you poured another glass of wine.

“Why not? I mean, what’s wrong with that?” Maddie picked up another bite of the cheesecake slice you ordered for girl’s night.

“I don’t know, maybe the fact that is gonna be, I don’t know, the third time I’ll ask for a reschedule, and I really don’t wanna do it!” You stored the wine bottle in the corner, still yapping about your latest quest.

“C’mon, Brains, you had your reasons. I bet he won’t say no.”

“But if he does? Like, he definitely hates me now.”

“I bet Buck would never hate you.”

“The student who keeps… Wait a damn minute, since when are we talking about Buck?”

“I thought you were talking about him all along?” Maddie grabbed her glass, hiding her knowing smirk behind the dark liquid.

“What made you feel like I was talking about it?” She tried to walk away from you, but you caged her on her seat. “No, Maddie, you’re not pulling this trick on me.”

“You really didn’t notice him giving you the special Buckley treatment? The heart eyes? Are you blind or something?”

“No? Because you’re literally making that up.”

“You’re definitely a woman of science, because you won’t notice something until it’s right into your face, with proofs and everything.” Maddie stared at something over your shoulder, probably in the direction of Buck’s place. “Oh God, he’s gonna kill me.”

“You should worry about me killing you, not him. Buck wouldn’t hurt a fly.”

“You’re right.” And then she clocked you. “And you have feelings for him too, don’t you?”

You thanked God for whoever was banging at your door. You walked away from Maddie’s question and ended up face to face with May.

“Did you tell her already?” She was holding a box of goodies and looked into Maddie.

“Tell me what?”

“I did, because you’re late. Now you gave her the perfect way out.” Maddie shook her head.

“Oh no, now that I’m here,” May stole your wine glass, took a sip and sat by your kitchen counter, “thank you for that, no one is escaping.”

“I hate you, guys.” You considered the idea of running to Buck’s and asking for shelter, but it would just prove their point. You closed the door and sighed, “I think you’re out of your mind if you really believe he has a crush on me. And to answer your question,” you walked back to the kitchen, getting a clean wine glass, “No, I don’t have feelings for Buck. Are we on good terms now? Yes, but that doesn’t mean I like him.”

“Never saw someone tiptoe around the word friends so much,” May was definitely Athena’s daughter because she knew how to come for the neck. “And you don’t like him? Whatever helps you sleep at night.”

“No, I don’t. Yeah, we are friends, but I’m kinda seeing someone else now,” you confessed.

“Oh, are you?” Maddie had her doubts, because you were only bringing it up after being confronted about Buck.

“Yes, it’s a guy from one of my classes. We’ve been studying together, having a few coffees between classes, he’s nice.”

“What’s his name?” May had her phone on hand. “C’mon, Brains.”

“Stephen. He’s getting a PhD in Statistics,” you told them. “He’s nice, and I think we’re having an official date next tuesday.”

Maddie and May whispered for a few seconds, pointing to the phone screen. You stood there, chewing the sweets and drinking big sips of the wine. Even if Buck had feelings for you… Were you lying to yourself? No, you and Stephen had something going on. At least you thought so.

“Tell us everything about Stephen!” May didn’t sound convinced.

So you did. You told them how he was kind enough to lend his notes from one of the classes you missed, then suggested you should study together in the library, and as a thank you gesture, you ended up buying coffee for him before your study sessions. You were texting each other very frequently, and he asked if you wanted to go to this italian cantina on one of your days off. How could you say no?

“Ok, but you noticed he resembles Buck, right?” May kept rolling his Instagram posts. “You’re lying to yourself, girl.”

“Yeah, because of all the DNA combinations, Buck is the only one allowed to have those features. Like c’mon, May, now you’re just making things up.” You rolled your eyes. “And, like, Stephen has dark brown eyes, he’s not like Buck.”

“Oh poor off brand Buck,” she stole a cherry from the cake slice. “Girl, be serious.”

“May, he genuinely seems like a nice guy.” You were almost saying ‘thank you’ to Maddie when she added, “Are you sure you’re not using him as a way to avoid Buck?” You wished the baby Jee good luck because she was worse than any friend you had. Come on, how could she do that to you?

“What? No! Please, that’s absurd.” You assumed your serious pose, both hands on the kitchen counter, “I don’t have feelings for Buck, we are just friends. And I think you’re making this up, he doesn’t have feelings for me. He’s just being Buck.” Every time you said those words, you were trying really hard to believe them. “Are you both happy now?”

They traded a very long and silent look and smiled.

“No, but you do you, girl.” May put her phone away and opened another box of desert. “Just don’t call me when you finally come into realization.”

“Geez, you look just like your mom right now,” you pointed, the Athena stare taking over her face. “You can say you told me so if that happens. But again, it’s not gonna happen. Any final words, Maddie?”

She laughed and poured another glass of wine, “You’re gonna learn pretty quickly that the Buckley’s don’t give up until they get what they want.”

a/n: hi guys! sorry for taking so long to post this new chapter — i wasn’t feeling well, so i took a break from writing and everything else. but i’m back! i’m cooking something related go this chapter (thanks to @live-love-be-unique request, you were so spot on casey), and the following two chapters are already drafted on my notes. hope everyone’s doing ok, soon enough we will get more 9-1-1 content! see y’all very soon! oh wait, also, shout out to my love @munsonsreputation for helping me with proofreading and cheering me up when i decided to face my fears and write 💙 love you babeeee

[bookishofalder]

Saviours Coffee House [Prologue]

Summary: Negan hires a new manager.

Warnings: Language! We’re starting off tame, but get ready because future parts get dark. WC—+2.7k.

A/N: Even if you aren’t a The Walking Dead fan, you might like this story—it’s a coffee shop A/U, I really only take the characters from TWD!

Now

Your eyes were only on Negan as he stalked forward, his normally bright eyes dark with fury as he clenched the baseball bat in his hands. You’d never seen him so angry...you’d never seen anyone so angry. Apprehension coiled in your gut, your mind blank, a doe caught in the headlights. You knew you had to move, to stop him—but part of you almost didn’t want to.

It was the part of you that had been beaten and broken over and over screaming for it to end. Screaming for you to let it happen.

And fuck, you wanted to listen to her.

Maybe you would.

—

Way Back

Negan Dean was sat at his desk, staring at the computer monitor in front of him without really seeing it. His mind had wandered away from the shop's accounting, the task he needed to complete. He had reason to be distracted, though, as he was in desperate need of a new manager, and he had a few interviews lined up that afternoon.

He’d put off rehiring for too long, left the manager position open and simply worked himself to the bone, running the place and leading it. But it had been months.

He’d needed to keep busy, after Lucille...no, he wasn’t thinking of her today. He needed to get the accounts sorted, have some lunch, and then start the interviews.

That was today’s game plan, and he was sticking to it. The extra work had finally caught up to him, as he knew it would. He was ready to step back because he was fucking exhausted and wanted to focus on his role as the owner of the Saviours Coffee House, behind the scenes. He needed a full-time manager to run the floor, someone smart and competent and good with people.

Simon had been on his ass for a while now about it, but he’d resolutely ignored his long-time friend, too stubborn for his own good. He knew Simon was right. But it was going to be on his fucking orders that a new person joined the tea—his family—even if it meant he’d fallen asleep in his office some nights, slumped over his desk in pure exhaustion.

Negan finished his task and stood, stretching out the kinks in his back, before making his way out onto the loft that overlooked most of the shop below. He had a few couches up here, and a little kitchenette next to his office, the area acting as a staff room in many ways; customers could not come up. At the opposite end of the loft, a door led up to the next floor, which was Negan’s condo. He’d bought the entire three-storey after the recession, gutted the whole thing and, working with a crew of mostly friends who had various trade jobs, renovated it entirely.

Negan was proud of Saviours Coffee House, a dream that he hadn’t always had come to life in the walls of what used to be an old, relatively small, textile factory. Now situated in the heart of downtown, it was the perfect spot for an edgy, laid-back place to unwind, meet friends, go on dates. Hell, Negan loved looking down and seeing a customer stay the whole day as they worked, even if they only bought one coffee. As far as he was concerned, the moment you spent a dime in his place, you were a customer for the day. And that had been a hit with many of the locals and students from the nearby university. Open five-thirty in the morning till eleven-thirty in the evening, Saviours welcomed all. So long as you kept your feet off the fucking tables and minded your manners.

In his former life, Negan worked as a high-ranking guard at the nearby penitentiary. It was a minimum-security, well-funded place where non-violent criminals ended up. He’d loved his years there, but after getting stabbed for the second time (the first was when he was young enough that he’d bounced back almost instantly) he decided to retire.

He sunk all of his savings into this dream, and years later had a lot to show for it. He’d also met a lot of down on their luck men in his time as a guard, so after Saviours became successful, he started a hiring program for white-collar criminals who completed a local, not-for-profit reintegration program. He only kept two on at a time, and most moved on after saving up enough.

Currently at the bar was Dwight, who’d been with Negan the longest now, having started just over a year before after getting out from serving time for drug possession. If Negan was proud of anything, it was Dwight. He’d seen the man evolve from a quiet asshole who barely grunted when customers paid, to a friendly bartender who mixed both amazing lattes and delicious cocktails, even if he grumbled about it. He was a fixture here now as much as Negan—and probably more well-liked, but Negan didn’t care about being liked. As long as people were happy, he was just fine.

It was the post-lunch lull now, so Dwight was wiping up the counters and switching the signs around from daytime menus to evening. Maggie, who had been working at Saviours for about two years, was wiping down the tables while Fleetwood Mac played over the expensive Bluetooth stereo system. He’d asked Maggie if she wanted the job, but she’d only laughed before telling him plainly that she had no desire to work full time or see him that much. He’d figured as much, seeing as she was in university, but he had wanted her to know it was hers if she did want it—she’d earned it.

Dwight was happy where he was, and didn’t want to upset the balance in life he’d worked so hard for, which Negan respected. His newest employee, also a convict hire, wasn’t up to scruff to become the manager, as much as he liked Paul, or ‘Jesus’, as everyone called him. He was a nice kid, worked hard, but seemed content working three part-time jobs. That had left Rosita and Tara, both part-time and students, and then Carol, part-time and not interested as she worked as a volunteer at the Children’s Hospital and didn’t want to give that up.

Which left him where he was now, stomping up the steps to his place to have a quick lunch before back-to-back interviews of promising contenders for a job he wished like hell he didn’t need to fill.

+

“Jesus. Fucking. Christ.” Negan slammed his hands onto the marble counter in frustration as Dwight watched him. He smirked as he tidied up the barista station.

“That bad, boss?” Dwight was shit at keeping the amusement off of his face. Negan scoffed, glancing behind him to ensure no customers were listening, but it was busy enough now with the after-class and work rush that the cacophony of voices and music allowed him to speak privately despite the location.

Negan held up one hand, holding his thumb and index finger a sliver apart. “I’ve got this much fucking patience left. Only one candidate wasn’t a god damned catfish and I didn’t like him,” He sighed, nodding gratefully when Dwight pointed to the espresso machine, knowing Negan needed his usual five o'clock pick-me-up. “I’ve got one last one; Daryl's friend. If she doesn’t fit, I’m going to have to beg Maggie—and you know she’ll love that too much to say yes.”

With a laugh, Dwight nodded in agreement, expertly moving about making Negan’s latte. “Carol seemed pretty sure you’d like her, said Daryl thinks of her like a little sister and when he heard you were looking for someone he was adamant she’d be perfect.”

Negan sighed, “Yeah, and I like Daryl so if this doesn’t work out and I have to start hating him I’m going to be real pissed off. Thanks, D.” He added when Dwight passed over the piping hot drink, still grinning at Negan’s displeasure.

Dwight dipped his head forward, eyes behind Negan, “I think that must be her, don’t recognize her and she’s dressed too nice for this place.” With that, he turned away and started loading dishes into one of the dishwashers. Negan turned, eyes scanning for the potential candidate, and he didn’t have to look far.

Because there you were, right out of a fucking dream.

Dwight had been right, you were dressed far too nicely for Saviours, but perfect for an interview (which instantly gave you points over a few of the previous interviewees). You were weaving by a few men who were standing at a high table and hadn’t yet noticed Negan, which allowed him to survey you.

The pretty green dress paired with a smart leather jacket and shiny kitten heels gave off an air of sophistication, accentuated your curves beautifully, and rendered his mind to mush for a brief moment. You wore your hair down, and it fell in elegant waves around your shoulders. Fuck, though, if you weren’t the prettiest woman he’d ever laid eyes on.

He thought Carol had mentioned you were in your mid-twenties, but you walked with more confidence about you than one usually saw in those formative years. Already impressed, Negan pushed himself away from the counter, stepped forward and smiled.

You looked around, his movement catching your eye, and returned the smile warmly as you approached. No doubt, you’d looked up their social media, seen pictures of Negan. Any smart candidate would do that, and Negan could already tell you were a clever girl. He called your name over the music, and you nodded, extending your hand

Negan took it into his and shook, enjoying how small your hand was compared to his. You were curvy and petite in the best ways, so much shorter than him but fully voluptuous, and you dressed like you knew you looked damn good, fuck whatever society said about beauty standards. “Mr. Dean, it’s great to meet you, sir.”

Negan grinned down at you, then pointed toward the staircase to your left, “Come on up, it’s quieter in the office.” And he led the way.

When he glanced back to make sure you were following, Negan saw you looking toward Dwight, giving him a friendly wave. He gave you a nod, a near smile, a pretty decent result from the house grump. He needed a manager who could get along with everyone, so right there was another point in your favour.

Closing the door brought the loudness of Saviours down to mere background noise, the evening crowds were always loud as shit. Negan loved it, the differences between the start and end of days, the energy. He gestured toward two armchairs he had, hating the process of sitting behind a desk to interview like he was some hot shot lawyer. He preferred the less intimidating, friendly way. It was just a coffee shop, after all.

A damn good one, though.

When you settled, Negan took his seat across from you, suddenly feeling a little distracted under the gaze of your bright eyes. “Well I’ll get straight to it; you come highly recommended by both Carol and Daryl. I won’t lie, I’m a pain in the ass to work for and I’m looking for someone who can handle hard work, long hours and most importantly, get along with my people. You really think that’s you?”

You were sitting with your back straight, legs crossed at the ankles, hands in your lap. You looked entirely at ease, meeting Negan’s eyes straight on as he spoke. When he finished, you leaned forward almost imperceptibly, your response instant.

“I’m exactly what you’re looking for, sir. I love people and get along with everyone. Do you think I’m best friends with Daryl and don’t know how to deal with a pain in the ass?” At this, Negan smirked, “I’m hardworking, and I have no other major commitments, so full time and long hours will suit me just fine.” You had a lovely voice, which was probably why you’d stayed working at the sales call centre for years before now.

In your resume, Negan had noted the year gap in wor—you had stopped working for the call centre just over a year ago, though it was noted you were a freelance writer and kept income that way. But he found it curious that you’d been working since you were a teenager and yet hadn't worked a solid job in a year. And now that he’d met you, he could see you were the hardworking type. Carol hadn’t known why you’d been away from a job for so long, stating that Daryl knew but didn’t tell her. He had said it didn’t matter, and that was good enough for Negan.

“Well, I’ll admit, on paper you’re ideal, which is why I scheduled you last today. I wanted to have time to read you.”

“And,” You interjected, a small smirk on your lips, “You know that keeping someone waiting the whole day for an interview will shred their nerves and leave them more susceptible to letting their true colours out.”

Negan stared, surprised, “Can’t get much past you, eh?”

You shrugged, “It’s a good tactic. But I assure you, I’m just as competent in the evening as the morning, and I think if you give me a chance to prove myself, you’ll be very happy with hiring me, Mr. Dean. I want to work here, you have an amazing place. It’s a part of this community, and the reintegration program is something I respect greatly, I have no issues working with men hired from there.” You paused, adjusting yourself slightly, palms falling open on your legs, “And, I’ll be frank, I want a job that has long days, that’ll keep me busy and tire me out and let me build relationships with customers. When I found out you were hiring, I jumped on the chance for Daryl to have Carol put in a good word for me. It just seems...right, to work here.”

“What about your writing, do you still do that?” Negan watched your face closely, and it didn’t waver, instead, your smile widened.

“I can write anywhere, anytime. And I make my own schedule with whatever commissions I take on, so it’ll be easy to write on my days off, or breaks if I don’t have a day off,” You pointed at Negan’s phone, which he’d set on the wide arm of his chair, “I can also help with writing any social media or website content, I know Carol mentioned you wanted to expand that presence, and I’m comfortable with that sort of work.”

Negan considered you, letting a comfortable silence fall as he thought over your words. You did seem eager, excited, and the fact that you’d researched what he was looking for impressed him further. Breaking eye contact, he glanced down at your resume once more, though he couldn’t think of anything else to ask. If he was honest with himself, he was ready to hire you after the first two minutes.

“I like you,” He said, thrumming his hands on his knees, “When can you start?”

“In the morning? Or I can go home, have my dinner and come back dressed more appropriately for work, if you need me straight away, sir.”

Negan shook his head, both as a response and in an attempt to toss away the thoughts that stirred up in the back of his mind every time you called him ‘sir’. “Tomorrow morning is perfect. And since you work for me now, you can call me Negan, asshole, or shithead, no more ‘Mr. Dean’ or fucking, ‘sir’, okay?”

When you smiled at Negan, it was the most dazzling he’d seen yet, bright white teeth and sweet dimples making his heart stutter. Damn, you really affected him. He needed to get a gri—you were half his age, for Christ's sake.

“Thank you, Negan,” You stood, holding your hand out and grasping his when he offered, your head tilting back to look at him as he stood before you. “Really, I promise I’ll make you proud.”

“Kid, I don’t doubt it.” He replied softly, and for a moment you simply looked at one another. Negan wasn't sure if you felt it, but he did; it was a spark. Fleeting, but strong enough that he knew life was about to get interesting again.

Taglist: @mermaidxatxheart @paintballkid711 @ladydmalfoy 🤍

[theolsentimes]

Mary-Kate Olsen's Singular Style

She came to fame as a twin, but the actress's cultish look is entirely her own. Here, with Lauren Hutton, she pays homage to another fashion inspiration, Grey Gardens. Written by Laura Brown, with photography by Peter Lindbergh (Harper's Bazaar, 2007)

VIEW GALLERY

Mary-Kate Olsen may be the only young actress who breezes into her local Starbucks wearing towering, fashion-fierce Balenciaga boots, who arrives at her latest premiere (in Mary-Kate's case, for the new season of Showtime's Weeds, in which she plays a devout Christian with a pot fetish) sporting an oversize cross, and whose favorite band is Led Zeppelin. She may, in fact, be the only young actress who knows who Led Zeppelin is. MK, as she is known to her friends and family, is also a punctual and professional sort. She arrives for a poolside tea in Los Angeles 10 minutes early, ordering a hot chocolate while explaining her fetish for all things sweet — "I'm a candy girl, like Tootsie Rolls and Swedish Fish" — and objecting when the waiter tries to take the sugar bowl away. She is wearing a nautical striped T-shirt (her mom's, from the '70s), tucked into two black Wolford slips rolled down and turned into a tight, Robert-Palmer-video-style mini, and multicolored sparkly Christian Louboutin stilettos. She's just had her hair colored, returning to a sunnier shade after some experiments with both peroxide ("I woke up one morning and was like, I want white-trash hair today") and the dark side (an auburn-haired near-Goth moment last year). She's carrying a large black fringed leather Prada tote — she doesn't do small bags — and her fingers are covered with rings, most notably two vintage coiled gold snakes stacked on top of each other. ("They remind me of twins, sort of double headed.") Altogether, the effect is less her famed "bag-lady chic" than an edgy, body-conscious, and, yes, sexy silhouette. If she weren't 21, she could be 40. And French.

Few people need reminding that Mary-Kate — with her twin sister, Ashley — literally crawled into celebrity aged nine months (courtesy of Full House) and has not been out of the spotlight ever since. She has been a celebrity for more than two decades. Perhaps that's one reason she seems as if she came out of the womb worldly, the textbook old soul. "Yeah," she says with a small shrug. "I get that a lot." With all of that attention and all of the money (her and Ashley's company, Dualstar, has famously become a "billion-dollar business"), Mary-Kate could easily have ended up the type who wears pink terry cloth and carries a variety of small dogs. "Could you imagine?" she says with the politest version of a snort. "No way." She credits her exceptionally close-knit family (she has five siblings) and, interestingly, early stardom with helping her keep her perspective. "I think it helped that I started in front of the camera, so it didn't come as a shock. If I was a teenager and was thrown into the spotlight, I don't know how I would react, to be honest." Though the tabloids are all too keen to brand her a skinny, nervous deer in the headlights, in person Mary-Kate is easy in her skin, confident and surprisingly tactile, curling up in her seat and touching you on the arm to make a point. She laments the generic style of most actresses and cites only men as style inspirations: "Heath Ledger, Johnny Depp. Men, they just dress the way they want, and they don't think about Who Wore It Best." She doesn't much care for Who Wore It Best, noting she avoids those pages by "wearing vintage so often. I just dress the way I feel instead of looking for what's the new handbag." If Mary-Kate and Ashley have their way, more people will be wearing clothes and carrying bags the way they do. They have just shown the fifth collection of their ready-to-wear line, the Row, and recently launched a contemporary label, Elizabeth and James, named after a sister and a brother. The Row's holiday collection (in stores next month) is a slick mix of skinny leather pants, razor-cut blazers, butter-soft, slouchy tees, and a destined-to-be-cultish pullover fur. Lauren Hutton, who stars in the Row's Spring '08 look book, says, "The clothes are extraordinary. A man I was with just loved them. The pieces are just so genius, soft like a baby's skin. Simple minimalist stuff, but really spectacular." Mary-Kate, designer, faces an interesting challenge. She has to marry Dualstar — which has made its fortune selling tween-tastic DVDs and pastel Mary-Kate and Ashley T-shirts at Wal-Mart — with her increasingly edgy and subversive taste. Dualstar executives, some of whom have worked with her since she was a child, often nag her, mom-style, about pulling her hair back "or wearing a color," she says with a laugh. "I had this event recently, and I was like, They're going to be so happy that I'm wearing ... purple. I actually have to think about those things, though, you know, so I don't get trashed." Get trashed sometimes she does. Hutton says, "Once in a while, she'll wear something and I'll think, Oh, baby doll, take another look. But to have the bravery, to take the chance to do that, is pretty wonderful. She is making her own way, which is hardly ever done in Hollywood." Of Mary-Kate's penchant for gigantic Balenciaga heels, Jenji Kohan, the creator of Weeds, says, laughing, "I'd be like, 'It's Tuesday. Do you really want to be wearing those shoes?' But she pulls it off." Designer Giambattista Valli, a friend, says, "She likes to take risks, but because she has such strong personal style, she always manages to make it work. Even if she had nothing on, she'd have style." And MK chic is spreading. "Sometimes I'll look at people or at a magazine and I'll do a double take because I'm like, Oh, my God, that's my outfit, but that's not me," Mary-Kate says. Playing with her wire-rimmed aviators, she jokes wryly that she should have bought shares in Ray-Ban. (She and Chloë Sevigny pretty much brought back white '80s Wayfarers.) She tends to fall in love with a look, then wear it until she's done. "If I put together a good outfit, I'll wear it for three days and then switch it up with a blazer," she says. "I still love my vintage jeans, my tights, and my pants, though." She didn't start wearing heels, in fact, until a couple of years ago: "I kept watching Ashley walk around in them so gracefully, and I'm such a klutz. But I ended up loving heels, and I don't usually take them off." She wears precisely one pair of flat shoes: Chanel's knee-high patent-leather gladiator sandals. This season, it's Balenciaga's fall collection — all of it — that has Mary-Kate obsessed. She is close to designer Nicolas Ghesquière and says, "He is so talented, but he's the nicest, most down-to-earth guy, and that makes everything he does more brilliant. I bought everything, but I haven't got anything yet," she says like a girl impatiently waiting for Christmas. Will she wear the new pieces with her infamous clodhopper boots? "Uh-huh. Wore them the other day, actually." Mary-Kate always goes with her gut, even if some people (back to those tabloids) don't quite get it. "The tabloids say things about me? What do they say?" she asks archly. "People are going to write what they want, and everyone's going to have their own idea of who I am. But I'm not trying to be friends with the people who are reading them, really." After a rough couple of years filled with near-forensic scrutiny of her weight, she'll have you know that she does eat. "This is not going to sound good," she laughs, "but I like making crispy tofu sticks with peanut sauce. I love my sashimi and my salmon and my vegetables." She observes, "Stress plays a big role in how I look day-to-day. I've always been very active — Pilates, yoga. I grew up horseback riding every day for hours. I love dancing. I usually last longer than anyone on the dance floor." A common image of Mary-Kate has her emerging from a coffee joint with an oversize cup. "I always get creamed for having my Starbucks cup," she says, sighing. "But the only time people get photos of me is when I'm getting coffee, when I can't sneak away from the camera." She also resents the pictorial implication that she and Ashley are dilettantes. "They take photos of us going into our offices, and it's 'Mary-Kate and Ashley shopping again.' But I'm going to work for eight hours, and we're working so hard. ..." She trails off. "It just shows how people want to think of you." Mary-Kate is not above celeb watching herself, however. Newly obsessed with Victoria Beckham, she notes she avidly watched Beckham's Coming to America documentary: "She's running around in a bikini and heels, and I'm like, Oh, my God! I do that, too!" How positively Grey Gardens. "I run around my house naked with heels all the time. It's so funny. All my friends will tell you I love running around in kimonos and jewelry or naked with jewelry." More people will be watching Mary-Kate soon, thanks to her role in the Emmy-nominated Weeds. "I am a very good Christian girl," she says with a wink. "She has her moral beliefs — and she happens to smoke pot." Of her newest cast member, Kohan adds, "Mary-Kate is complicated. She's a big celebrity, a huge media icon, but you have to separate the media images from someone who has the same issues, the same desires, as anyone else." Of course, Mary-Kate's image, in all its incarnations — from high fashion to small screen — is her strongest asset. And she has yet to settle on one. "I feel like I've lived 10 different lives already and I'm only 21," she says, almost as a reminder to herself. "But I also feel like I'm entering a new chapter." One thing on which she is clear, though: She doesn't need to be looked at all the time. What would she do for a day if she were invisible? "I would probably go to a restaurant with my friends, who would be able to see me, of course," she adds pragmatically, "and I would sit outside and enjoy a nice lunch with them. Then I would walk down the street." The old soul takes a sip of her little-girl-sweet hot chocolate. "That's what I would do."

[geraltofriviasleftbuttcheek]

of crispy-edged waffles and slightly burnt toast

geraskefer, ciri pov — 1.4k — gen audiences — modern au, domestic fluff

written for the "domestic" space of my @geraskeferbingo card

.

"I want to do breakfast in bed for Dad and Papa tomorrow," Ciri tells her mom, when it's just them after lunch. Dad and Papa both had to go back to work because their jobs don't let them work from home like Mama's. She puts another piece of her puzzle in place.

"Oh?"

"For Father's Day," she clarifies. She searches for another piece as she says, "They deserve something nice for being the most awesome dads to ever dad."

She knows a lot of people buy, like, tools and grills and stuff for their dads, but Dad has plenty of tools and they just bought a new grill last year, anyway, and Papa doesn't cook or use tools, because that's what he has Dad for, so she thinks this will be something special and unexpected.

Mama hums consideringly. "I think they'll love that, actually. Your papa will definitely cry about it," she adds, and Ciri giggles.

"He probably will."

"I know he will," Mama says, "because he cried when your dad brought him breakfast in bed for his birthday last year."

"He's a sap," Ciri says, and Mama snorts.

"Yes," she agrees, "he is."

"But that's why you and Dad love him."

Mama smiles her soft smile, the one Ciri only sees on her face when she's thinking about Dad and Papa. "Yeah."

They sit in silence for a bit. Ciri puts ten more pieces together while Mama types away on her laptop. It's nice when it's just them, but she misses her papa's singing and having her dad help her with her puzzles. She's got a whole collection, and he's helped her finish almost half of them now.

"What kind of breakfast do you want to make for them?" Mama asks after a bit.

Ciri frowns as she looks for one of the missing center pieces of her puzzle; it's being a sneaky hiding bastard. "Hm. I was thinking, like, eggs or something. Or waffles—Papa loves waffles. Maybe toast too? Dad likes to put his eggs on his toast because he's weird, so he'd probably like that."

"Probably," Mama agrees, and Ciri can tell she's trying not to laugh. "But that sounds good."

Ciri finally gives up on finding the missing piece and pushes up from the floor. She stretches her arms above her head, going on her tiptoes, and then drops her arms. She looks over at her mom, curled up on the couch with her work computer and a mug that probably had coffee in it at some point, and considers going to get an apple juice box for herself.

"Will you help me make it all?" she asks. "I've never used the waffle maker before, and I don't actually want to set the kitchen on fire, so."

"Bold of you to assume that anyone in this house but your dad knows how to use that thing," Mama says, and they grin at each other. "But sure, sweetie. I'd be happy to."

"And I can blame you if the house does burn down, right?" she asks innocently.

Mama throws one of the couch pillows at her and she runs from the living room, cackling.

.

The next morning, way earlier than she usually gets up, Ciri sneaks over to her parents' room and cracks the door open. She can hear her papa's soft snores—the ones he insists he doesn't make—and snickers silently to herself as she steps into the room.

Dad's in the middle of the very big bed, as usual, with Papa's arm flung over him. The space on his other side is empty and rumpled, and Ciri looks into the ensuite to see Mama brushing her teeth. She meets Ciri's eyes in the mirror and nods, and Ciri nods back before sneaking back out and going to the kitchen.

Ciri's got very simple instructions on how to make a waffle and eggs over medium pulled up on her phone, and she stares down the waffle maker with only a little nervousness.

"Ready?" Mama asks, coming up beside her.

She pulls her shoulders back and lifts her chin, determined. "Yeah. Let's make a fucking waffle."

"Hey," Mama admonishes, but she kisses Ciri's head and finishes it with, "watch your fucking language, young lady."

It's...an adventure of sorts, after that.

Both Ciri and her mom can follow a recipe okay enough, and they manage to make the waffle batter with little difficulty: measuring out ingredient amounts is pretty straightforward, and Mama knows how to use the stand mixer, sort of, and they only get it over the counter and on their faces and not their clothes, so they consider that a win.

Cooking it without it coming out a charred, mangled mess, or without it being way undercooked, however—and also making eggs over medium—proves to be a little more challenging. They have several failed attempts and go through at least half a dozen eggs before finally getting something that doesn't look like it'll poison either her papa or her dad if they ingest it.

"Okay," Ciri says, watching the clock closely, "I think that's good enough."

Mama hums in agreement and they open the waffle press. The edges are a bit more dark brown than Dad ever gets, but the center is a nice golden color. It'll have to do; they're running out of batter.

Ciri gets the waffle on a plate while Mama slides the eggs they've managed to actually get in the skillet and cook for a nebulous amount of time on top of the slightly burnt toast that came out of the toaster. Apparently you actually have to pay attention to a toaster because it can jam and things can burn? That was something new they learned.

The yolks break a bit and start soaking into the toast despite how careful they are, but Dad would do it himself anyway, so Ciri figures they're just helping it along. She's pretty sure everything is edible, at least, which is all she can ask.

She pours orange juice into two glasses—which she manages flawlessly—and Mama gets everything onto the big food tray they only break out for special occasions, like today. Ciri runs and grabs the cards she'd made for her dads and tucks them under the plates, and then she helps Mama pick it up and carry it to the master bedroom.

Dad and Papa are still sleeping soundly, and Ciri feels a brief pang of guilt for wanting to wake them up. But then she shakes it off, because she knows they won't mind and besides, she made them breakfast in bed and the least they can do is appreciate it.

Mama takes the tray and gives her an encouraging, evil grin, and she grins back before throwing herself at the bed and jumping on top of it. She bounces a bit and crawls over their legs as they grunt and startle awake, blinking blearily at her.

"Cirilla—"

"Ciri, what—"

"Happy Dad's Day!" she crows, throwing her arms around both of them as best she can. She feels each of them wrap an arm around her and smiles into the big hug they give her. "Mama and I made you breakfast."

"Thank you, sweet girl," Papa says, kissing her head. Dad just hums and holds her tighter. "You didn't have to do that."

"I know," she says, pulling back and settling between them as Mama brings over the food. "But I wanted to. You deserve it. Both of you. You're the best dads ever."

"She figured you didn't need another grill," Mama teases, and they all laugh.

Papa's eyes are a bit wet, the blue color even brighter than normal, and Ciri internally high fives her mom because they totally called it. Dad also looks ready to cry—by which she means he's hiding his face behind his hair—which is a bit more surprising, but also not really, when she thinks about it. Fondness wells up in her chest and she leans forward to kiss each of their cheeks.

"Love you Dad, love you Papa," she whispers, and they pull her close and tuck her between them as Mama sits on the bed too and puts the food tray between them all.

Ciri makes a face when Mama kisses both of them in the Grown Up Way, but she's warm and safe, surrounded by her parents. She's happy and loved, and that's all she can think to ask for.

She's also relieved that the food isn't terrible—or at least that her dads love her enough to pretend it's not.

[crimsonrae]

Oh, I am excited then! May I please request a Captain Syverson or Clark Kent/Femme! Reader oneshot where it's the reader's birthday, but she doesn't tell Sy/Clark because she doesn't celebrate/forgets and they find out and do something for her? Maybe a surprise dinner or something? Thank you so much, darling!!

Hey Nonnie,

As requested a birthday fic with Mr. Kent. Fluff fic - I hope you like it.

Clark KentxReader

Falling, Flying

Happy Birthday!

You sighed wearily as you eyed the balloon decorated card from the florist. A beautifully arranged bouquet of sunflowers and chrysanthemums rested on your desk. Admittedly, the amber and wine tones were striking and brought a brightness to your office that was usually lacking, but it was also like having a bright neon sign to remind you of a day that you usually wanted to ignore.

This was the problem with having with life-long friends... they liked to torture you.

You chucked the card into your trash and moved the flowers to the window. You’d text Maria later to call her an asshole and thank her for the little gift.  

“Hey, nice flowers.”

Your butt had barely touched your desk chair. Biting back another sigh, you glanced up to see Lombard loitering in your doorway, “Thanks... Did you have that election article for me?”

“Y/N, it’s all work and no play with you.” Lombard complained loftily as he leaned against the threshold.

You shook your head, ignoring him as you logged into your computer. Your fingers clacked hard at the keyboard when he didn’t disappear nor answer your question. He stood like a creepy grotesque and it only took another minute of stunted silence before you broke.

“Lombard, what do you want?” He grinned victoriously while you threw a mocking scowl at him, “Article?”

He sauntered forward and dropped into the chair before your desk, “So, what are the flowers for? Did Smallville screw up? Apology flowers? Or an anniversary? Don’t let Lois see if it’s the second, cuzzz I don’t think it’s been quite a year since they’ve broken up.”

You rolled your eyes and grumbled under your breath about reporters. Never mind that you used to work as one, editing was more in your comfort zone anyway. You and Clark had only managed to date for two weeks before the office found out.  

Bloodhounds – every single one of them.  

Including your boy.

“You should work for a gossip rag, Steve. You’d really shine there.” You stated dryly, focusing back on the screen as a few new articles showed in your inbox. It was going to be a busy day of fact-checking and proofreading.

“Oh, don’t be mean. I’m just taking a healthy interest in my colleague’s life.” A smugly amused smirk crossed his lips before a pen came flying at his face, “Hey!”

Unapologetic, you pointed at the door “Get out of my office and get your article done.”  

He moved to protest or retort, you weren’t sure, as a new voice interrupted.

“Harassing my girl again, Lombard.”

A feeling of déjà vu fell over you as you and Lombard looked to your door to see Clark leaning in the threshold. You smiled faintly at him becoming amused as Lombard actually shifted to stand. As nice as Clark was, Lombard was well aware that his arms were the size of his head. He felt it better for his ego if he never stood to close to the other reporter...or pissed him off.

And yet...

“Nice choice of flowers, Smallville. So, what did you do?” The smaller man queried jovially.

You threw another pen at him as Clark zeroed in on your present and frowned. He tilted his head curiously and came over to have a better look, allowing Lombard a direct escape if he wanted, “Those aren’t from me.”

You could practically feel a whole new level of intrigue pour from Lombard at Clark’s words. You sent the nosy reported a pointed glare and lifted a pen threateningly. He finally took the hint and left as you spun your chair to face your boyfriend.

You couldn’t stop a cheeky smile as he arched a brow at you, “Yeah...I’ve been meaning to tell you – I've been seeing other guys. You’re gonna need to step up your game, farm boy.”

Clark snorted and slanted a mockingly stern gaze at you through his glasses. You still couldn’t decide if you liked him better with or without the frames, but the meandering thought flew from your head as he nudged your legs apart with his knee and leaned into you. You spared a quick glance towards your open door before meeting him halfway for a kiss.

A soft warmth enveloped you as he nipped your lip and gently coaxed your mouth to open. He stole your breath as he delved deeper and you tasted each other thoroughly. Somehow, you always forgot how good a kisser he was.... it was almost unfair. Especially when he pulled away with that knowing glint in his eye that made you want to smack him and climb him like a tree all at once.  

He smirked, “Somehow, I’m not worried.”

“You don’t play fair.” You grumbled though an affectionate smile pulled at the edges of your lips.

“Says the woman who’s receiving flowers from someone other than her boyfriend.” Clark drawled pointedly as he leaned against your desk.

Unwillingly, you glance at your flowery neon sign. You had no desire to share the real reason for the bouquet. Your birthday had never been a particularly good day for you and the only good ones that you had celebrated had been when you were alone.  

A cup of tea and a good book to read as you let the day pass you by and ignored the fact that you were another year older... that was your perfection.

You sighed and shrugged, “They’re from Maria, so no need to be jealous.”

His brow furrowed. He had only met Maria a few times and was still trying to wrap his head around the friendship you two shared. Insults, practical jokes, and a fair bit of clothes thievery made up the majority of your relationship.

“You guys aren’t in a prank war again, are you?” Clark asked leerily.

He had been the unintended victim of a couple of your pranks the last month and you couldn’t help, but smirk at the memory.  

You shook your head, a lie spilling from your lips before you could stop it, “No. I think I need to check my closet for those new Jimmy Choo's I bought. They’re probably gone now.”

Clark rolled his eyes, “I really don’t understand you two.”

“You don’t need to.” You replied calmly but made the mental note to check your closet anyway. You never knew with Maria.  

“Y/N! Stop canoodling your boyfriend! You’ve got papers on the printer.”

A low groan left your lips as a faint heat filled your cheeks at Lombard’s voice, but you moved to get up anyway. You had no desire to have him hover in your office again.  

Clark moved to follow before a colorful glint caught his eye. A quick check showed him that you were already out of the office as he reached down to pull the florist’s card from the trash. A deep frown marred his features as he took in the festive balloons and quickly scrawled birthday wish.

Why wouldn’t you tell him it was your birthday?

He quickly nabbed Maria’s number from your phone and disappeared from your office.

  ── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ──

Your eyes had begun to sting as you stared at your computer screen. A small headache forming at the base of your neck, as you continued to work. You hadn’t been wrong when you assessed that today was going to be busy.

Five more articles had appeared on your desk before lunch and about a dozen phone calls placed and taken before and after that – notes were scribbled into margins and glaring errors corrected. So far, you had only been able to toss back a couple pieces and it was well after six already. Tiredly, you rubbed at the bridge of your nose, more than ready to go home and collapse into bed...but there was still so much you needed to do.

“Hey, you about ready to go?”  

You started at the sound of Clark’s voice, nearly sending your keyboard skittering to the floor, “Christ! I swear you need a damn bell.”

He chuckled lowly, watching as you clutched at your chest and glared mildly at him. He came to stand next to your desk, noting that you hadn’t even begun to shut down for the night while his shoulder bag was already tucked under his arm, ready to call it quits, “Sorry, didn’t mean to scare you. Grab your stuff, I’m taking you to dinner.”

A rueful smile quirked at your lips as you wave him off, “Raincheck, babe. I need to get this done or Perry’s gonna have a fit.”

He frowned glancing over the mess of papers on your desk. He hadn’t planned for you to still be working and almost wondered if you had taken on extra articles on purpose, “How much more do you have to do?”

“Don’t know. Maybe another hour – two tops.” You shrugged and smiled softly at him, “You’re free to roam the skies, Captain.

Clark raised an incredulous brow. Not because you had alluded to his alter-ego, you had known for a few months now and had slowly been coming to terms with the fact that your boyfriend was a superhero. It was a road that had not been easily traveled by any means. No, his disbelief came from now being certain that you had taken on extra articles.  

You didn’t often seek solitude, but when you did it was by diving into your work... he had learned that particular quirk relatively quickly and almost painfully. But not tonight – tonight you and he had plans and he wasn’t about to let you break them.

He reached over your shoulder and hit a couple buttons on your keyboard to send your computer into hibernation. You stared in shock at his gall, “Clark!”

He was already grabbing your coat, “Dinner, let’s go.”

Your gaze swiveled from the computer to him, your headache becoming full-blown as your expression creased into annoyance, “I told you, I have work. I’m sorry if that ruins your plans, but we’ll just -”

“You didn’t have lunch.” He cut you off and crossed his arms with a mild glare of his own, “You’ve been mainlining coffee like there’s about to be a tariff placed on it. I wouldn’t be surprised to find that all you ate today was a bagel from Guillermo’s. And I know for a fact that no one has a deadline that needs to be met today or tomorrow. Dinner. Now. Don’t think I won’t drag you out of here.”

You glare at each other in a silent standoff. It wasn’t until he stepped toward you that you gave in with a heavy scowl, “What are you? My mother?”  

“A concerned boyfriend.” He retorted as he held out your coat.

You accepted it grudgingly and grabbed your purse before stepping out of the office. Clark followed behind you, not wanting to give you a chance to close the door on him. You had done it before.  

He watched you from the corner of his cerulean eyes. Your annoyance didn’t last long, but a deep weariness seemed to fall over you as the two of you left the Planet. He slid a warm comforting hand across the small of your back to grip lightly at your hip. Relief flowing through him as you leaned into his side. You weren’t too annoyed with him, then.

You made it down an entire block before you realized you didn’t know where you were heading. Both of your apartments were in the other direction and any decent restaurant required calling for a cab to get to...

You blinked in confusion, “Clark...where?”

He smiled wondering when you would ask. Glancing around discreetly, he pulled you into an alley and firmly against his body. Your brow rose, a questioned poised on the tip of your tongue that turned into a startled scream as you suddenly found yourself in the air.

Your arms wrapped around his neck like a lock as you buried your face into his shoulder. Muffled curses and small whimpers spilled from your throat as the two of you flew. Even when he slowed, now safely away from prying eyes and telescopes, you refused to look up.  

“You can relax. I won’t drop you.” He murmured into your ear, feeling mildly guilty for scaring you. He could feel you trembling and knew it wasn’t from the cold air.

A muffled curse was his only response as you gripped tighter. You did not like this.

Luckily, you were soon on the ground again, though it took you a few minutes to remember how to unlock your frozen limbs. Your heart pounded in your chest as you swallowed against a noxious turn of your stomach. You couldn’t stop shaking...

Clark rubbed soothingly at your arms as you tried to find some semblance of control over your body. Your eyes slowly opened into a dark glare, your hand already moving to smack him in the chest. It was infuriating to know that it wouldn’t hurt him, “Don’t ever do that again, you jackass.”  

His eyes widen in a way that reminded you of a scolded puppy, but you refused to bend and stumbled back a step. You turned intending to see where exactly he had dropped you and figure out how to get home but froze at the sight you found.

Twinkle lights shimmered in the burgeoning night sky as they danced about the branches of an old willow tree. A small wooden table set for two was guarded by the fluttering leaves while being showcased by the light. It was startlingly quaint and romantic all in one.

Martha smiled as she placed a covered dish in the center of the table and waved at the two of you. You were on the farm...  

“Happy Birthday,” Clark murmured behind you.

Your mouth moved silently before you turned confused eyes on him, “...How?”

“I saw the card in your trash can. Called Maria... then I called mom.” Clark explained casually as if he were talking about the weather.

Stunned all you could do was blink, even as Martha came up to greet the two of you.  

She wrapped you in a quick hug, “Happy Birthday, dear.”

Then turned to place a kiss to her son’s cheek before shooing you towards the table, “Go, eat before it gets cold. I need to finish your cake.”

Cake. The word jolted you back to reality, “Oh Martha - you didn’t need to go through all this trouble.”

“Nonsense.” She called back, already halfway back to the house.  

Distracted, Clark slipped his hand into yours and gently tugged you towards the table. Smells of garlic and tomato and cheese wafted toward you and your mouth began to water. Sheer wonder filled you as Clark pulled your chair out for you and then moved to uncover the dish Martha had left. Steam rose into the air as he revealed a freshly baked lasagna. Salad and garlic bread next to it.

Your throat constricted as you took in the care that had gone into this... A home cook meal shouldn’t bring you to tears, but you felt the sting at the corners of your eyes.  

“Y/N?” Clark called quietly. Worried that he may have overstepped his bounds with this surprise.

Your heart felt too big for your chest as you met his gaze. It was with tremulous movements that you left your seat to place a grateful kiss to his lips, “Thank you...I didn’t...You didn’t need...”

You couldn’t find the words to express just how overwhelmed you were feeling as you fell back to your seat, but not letting go of his hand.

Clark watched you with a soft smile, “I think it's my right to spoil my girlfriend on her birthday, though it would help if I had known sooner.”  

A stray tear spilled down your cheek as you shook your head, knowing that you would have to explain your distaste for this day...but you also didn’t want to dwell on those thoughts, “I didn’t expect you to...Clark -”

He squeezed your hand as if he already knew, “Tell me later, I have more spoiling to do.”

You huffed a laugh and shyly smiled, “You know Clark Kent, you really know how to make a girl fall.”

He grinned widely, “And to think you hate flying.”

“You’re still not fully forgiven for that... but I think I’ll get over it.” You murmured, joy burning your veins as his expression turned relieved.

He pressed a kiss to your joined hands.

It was the first birthday you could say that you truly enjoyed. Over a plate of hot lasagna in the late summer night as crickets chirped and frogs sang and with a man... a man who looked at you like you were the only thing that mattered. That was the only present you ever needed.

  ── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ──

If you would like to be tagged in my stories please add yourself to the taglist linked in my bio!!

General Taglist (All Writings)

@bichibibi @madbaddic7ed @beckster07890 @herefortherealdeal

General Taglist (Henry Cavill Characters Only)

@a-wxnderless-mind  @clarreee @graceful-leah @sweetdreamsofgelato @werewolfonastolenbike  @worshipping-skarsgard  @chamomilebottom @ginger-tiger @henry-cavill-obsessed @michellemybelles-world @singeramg @tinabean37 @viking-raider @xxxkatxo @mary-ann84 @henrythickcavill @omgkatinka @oddsnendsfanfics @misslalaland-blog-blog @littlefreya @radaofrivia @iloveyouyen @justaboringadult @qualitynightkoala @auds24 @maizyistrash @magdelen69 @penwieldingdreamer  @henryobsessed @thelastsock @mstgsmy  @scorpionchild81 @purplelove75 @agniavateira @cavillhavoc @henryfanfics101 @imneonpanda @lebguardians @marswritings @oddsnendsfanfics @promptandpros @multixwolf @tumblnewby @vikingsbifrost @wolvesandhoundshowltogether

[wiyodreamz]

𝑽𝒊𝒗𝒊𝒅 𝑳𝒐𝒗𝒆 | 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒌 𝑺𝒆𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒉𝒘𝒂 [03]

⌜Nari is a college student at Seokhye University. One day she got off on the wrong foot with Seonghwa, throws her coffee on him and curses him out. Later that day she learns about the internship she signed with Hwa Corp. That same day, she learns that the same guy she threw her coffee at, is the CEO of that company! How will things go for Nari if she has a target on her back from that encounter? ⌟ Office AU

01 | 02 | 03

Contains: fluff, angst, smut, alcohol drinking, cursing, and more as the story goes on.

Tag list: @seonghwaskitten @reeateez

Warnings: none

A/N: finally there’s development in Nari’s and Seonghwa’s relationship!

Another week in hell, according to Nari. Her hangover was cured only yesterday. She didn’t know what was in her drink, but she can only blame Minhyuck and his connections.

“Assistant Manager Geum! Here’s the copies you asked for! I also put them in files so you can tell which ones are the ones you need for the meeting today!” She said as she put them on the desk.

“Thank you Nari” he said as he bowed at her and she bowed back in respect.

She left his office to go back to her desk, getting ready for another ridiculous task from Mr.Park. The odds didn’t play in her favor, because she ran into Mr.Park when he was just entering the building. She bowed slightly at him and tried to walk past him, but he gripped her arm tightly.

“Next time you do something like you did Friday night. Make sure you do it in privacy and not in public” he said in a threatening tone. “They can link you to me and that’ll ruin my reputation.”

Nari looked at him in wide eyes. “Y-you were there Friday night?”

“Yeah, I caught a drink with some investors of mine and I saw you with that boyfriend of yours” he said.

“Ex. He’s my ex boyfriend who was a cheating jerk” she said. She then thinked and her eyes widened. “You brought me back to your place! I remember waking up in a fancy setting with some clothes that weren’t mine!”

“Yeah I did, but my maids dressed you in that clothing” he said as he crossed his arms. “You owe me Moon Nari.”

He then walked away towards the elevators making her stunned. She felt herself get flushed and quickly ran back to her desk. She sat down and went onto her computer at her desk.

As she was typing away at a PPT, she saw a coffee cup right beside her and looked up and saw Hongjoong.

“You look like you need this” he said as he smiled.

Nari smiled at her and took a big sip of the hot coffee. “Thank you Hongjoong you’re a lifesaver.”

Hongjoong then pulled Yunho’s empty chair and sat beside Nari.

“How about I treat you to dinner? Do you have dislike to anything?” He asked.

“I don’t really mind anything” she said as she smiled.

“Great!” He said and then went to his desk. Nari took another sip of her coffee and looked up to see Mr.Park glaring at the scene and then tuning back in to a worker telling him about something.

“Wow Nari! I didn’t know you can pull so many guys in a span of days” Dani mocked as she stared over towards Nari.

“What do you mean Dani?” Nari asked.

“First you were making out with Minhyuck in a club Friday night and now you got that guy” she said.

“How’d you know about Minhyuck?” She asked surpised.

“Did you forget that I’m friends with him? He’s been bragging about it in the group chat saying that he almost got his way with you before a random guy got involved” she said as she crossed him arms.

Nari then started to get angry. “Do you know something that he did that I wasn’t aware of?!”

She felt Sunji grabbed her arms to calm her down. “Nari don’t risk it! You’re already on Mr.Park’s bad side!”

Nari grabbed herself out of Sunji’s grip and glared at Dani and then went back to her work.

“So, who did you leave with Friday night?” Nari teased Yunho as he rolled his eyes.

“Well I left with this girl. We were thinking about it, but instead we had a great conversation all through the night. We mostly saw each other as friends and our feeling are mutual” he said. “I heard that you got yourself a date tonight?”

“Yeah it’s with Hongjoong. He’s just treating me to dinner” she responded. “Plus it’s not a star. Just two friends getting dinner together.”

“Did you ever figure out the guy who took you back to his place?” He asked. “Also how did you get that crazy?”

Nari bit her lip. She didn’t want to tell Yunho about Minhyuck, because whenever he figured out that Minhyuck cheated on her, he beat him up to a pulp.

“I just drank too much that’s all” she said quietly and continued to eat her lunch.

“Well I’m glad you’re okay and that’s all that matter” he said as he smiled at her.

Nari grabbed her coat along with her bag, getting ready to leave. She was logging off her computer and getting her desk cleaned so she won’t have to deal with it tomorrow.

“Aren’t you leaving out Dani?” Sunji asked as she stood over Dani’s desk.

“I’m gonna stay a little while longer. So don’t wait up on me” she said and Sunji nodded and left to go home.

“You ready to go Nari?” She looked up and saw Hongjoong with his coat on.

“Yeah let’s go!”

The two let’s say were awkward at first. No one dared to say a word, until they got closer to their destination.

“Do you think you’re getting the internship?” He asked.

“I don’t know. Mr.Park still has it out for me, so I’m looking for jobs just in case I don’t, so when graduation hits I can already have a job or an interview for one” she explained.

“That’s a very responsible idea!” He replied as he smiled at her. “It’ll be stupid for Seonghwa to not choose you! You’re the hardest working out of all of them. If that Dani girl gets it, he definitely rigging it.”

“I don’t want to talk about the internship right now. It’s stresses me out.”

“I get what you mean.”

The dinner was very great according to Nari. Her and Hongjoong had fun. They learned that they have so many things in common. And now they were laughing at something from the restaurant and Nari then stopped.

“Nari what’s wrong?”

“I forgot my assignment for one of my classes back at the company! You can go home, I’ll be fine by myself. I can catch the bus back to my apartment” she said as she smiled at him.

“Alright. See you tomorrow Nari” Hongjoong waved to her and went his separate way to his home.

Nari ran to the company and quickly towards the elevator, passing by a sprinkle of people who stayed over to work more. She made it up to the floor and she heard people talking and hid behind the wall to hear.

“Yah! Dani! Do you have something you would like to tell me?” Mr.Park asked.

“Whatever do you mean Mr.Park?” She asked, pretending to be clueless.

“I mean what you told Nari today. It seemed interesting” he said. “Something about a club and how Minhyuck almost got his way with her?”

“Oh yeah” she said as she crossed her arms. “Minhyuck was bragging to us about how he managed to make Nari make out with him in the club with a little magic. He was trying to do something more private that night too, if you know what I mean.”

Nari gripped the wall in anger. How could Minhyuck stoop so low to get her in bed with him and she thought how many girls he’s done this with, since Minhyuck isnt really the settling down type.

Seonghwa chuckled darkly and slammed his hand against the wall above Dani. “You know I saw something way different. It seemed he told a bartender to put something in Nari’s drink to get her that way”

“How would you know about that Mr.Park, you don’t seem the type to go out clubbing?” She asked intrigued.

“I had some business deals and we decided to go somewhere to drink and that club happens to be the nearest place for drinks” he said. “Then I took Nari to my place when she was out and I had my maids change her out of her clothes and left some medicine for her.”

Dani seemed irritated at the information. “Why would you do that? Did you say she was a bitch to you when you first met at that cafe?”

Seonghwa’s eyes darkened. “How did you know? Did you eavesdropped on a private conversation?”

“I want you to be nice to Moon Nari or else you’re running for the internship will be no more because. I’ll. Drop. You.”

Dani scoffed and glared at him. He was really defending someone who he didn’t really like. She grabbed her bag and began to walk off.

“Also tell Minhyuck to watch his back.”

Before Dani could catch Nari, she ran away and quickly went into the elevator. She couldn’t believe that Mr.Park would stand up for her like that. She ran home too.

It was a few days after Nari overheard the conversation. Dani was even more rude to Nari, but not around Mr.Park of course. Nari was finishing up an essay she had due that week and then she saw an envelope on her desk. She looked up and saw Mr.Park handing them out.

She opened it up and was met with a pretty invitation. She took it out and read it.

Hwa Corp annual gala! Saturday @7:15 P.M.! Formal attire only!

Nari set the invitation back into the envelope and put it in her desk, going back to what she was doing.

“Nari what are you wearing?” Yunho asked as he sat back in his office chair.

“Oh I’m just planning on wearing that dress my mother bought me, but never got the chance to wear it” she answered.

“Oh the long black one?”

“Mmhmm.”

Just then Ms.Lee came by Nari’s desk and put down a stack of papers in front of her. “Mr.Park has a meeting in an hour and he needs copies of these papers ASAP.”

Nari nodded and walked towards the copy room. The smell of copied papers hit her nose when the papers were done. She grabbed a paper clip from the box that is left in the copy room.

She gripped onto the papers as she left the copies room and to leave them on Ms.Lee’s desk, but then she bumped into someone and the copies fell from her grasps. She looked up and saw Mr.Park. Even though he defended her that night a few weeks ago, she was still scared on what he will do. So she bend down and picked up the copies, but another hand helped her.

“Thank you for making these copies. I can take care of it from here” he said as she paused mid-cleaning. Did he really just say those words to her. She bowed to him and then went back to her desk.

“That’s totally weird of him” she thought with her pen to her chin.

It was now the night of the Gala. Nari was dressed in a long lace black dress and it was off the shoulders. Like usual, Yunho picked up Nari from her apartment and they drove to the place where it was going to take place at. Once they were there, Nari put on her coat and walked with Yunho inside the warm building.

They handed their invitations to the security and he nodded at them. “Mr.Jeong and Ms.Moon, you can set your coats down here and we will put your name tags on them.”

“What are you going to do first?” Yunho asked Nari as they walked down the huge marble stairs.

She shrugged her shoulders. “I might try the pastries, you might never know when you can try expensive treats like these.”

The two split apart and Nari went near the table and was handed a glass of champagne.

“I’m glad to see you here Nari” she turned and saw Hongjoong with a glass of champagne in his hands. “Seonghwa usually host parties like these once year and they’re always huge and extravagant!”

“I see” she said as she took a sip of champagne as she took a place around the place. It had marble everywhere and people in fancy dresses.

“Oh if you ever get the chance, try the tiramisu or the strawberry creme puffs” he said with a smile.

“I leave the recommendations in mind” she said with a smile. They heard click of some shoes and turned to see Seonghwa with his hands in his pockets.

“Hongjoong, there’s some people who love to speak with you. Right now” he said and Hongjoong nodded and walked away, leaving Nari and Seonghwa.

“Are you enjoying yourself Nari?” He asked.

“Why are you being nice to me?”

“Huh? Whatever do you mean?”

“Last time I recalled, you told me you’ll my my life a ‘living hell’ and then working me out to where I was mostly sleeper deprived and making me redo long projects. And now you’re being suspiciously nice” she said as she looked at him suspiciously.

He sighed and then moved his hair from his eyes. “I decided I’ve had a change of heart.”

“I guess you did since you didn’t let Minhyuck leave with my that night and you did help me pick up those papers.”

“I’ve been thinking too. Maybe we got off the wrong foot that morning too.”

She crossed her arms. “Yeah, but you were totally rude to that barista!”

He chuckled. “Noted, I figured out where she lived and sent her an apology letter attached to a gift basket.”

“I guess you do really have a change of heart. Let’s reintroduce ourselves” she said as she smiled slightly. “I’m Moon Nari, senior at Seokhye Univeristy and fighting for a paid internship at Hwa Corp.”

“I’m Park Seonghwa, CEO of Hwa Corp, and can be little bit of a jerk.”

They both laughed and shook hands. They talked for a bit and noticed that a lot in common, except for the fact that Seonghwa can’t drink coffee, while Nari loves it.

“Ms.Lee is leaving soon” he said as he leaned against the balconly outside. The night fall breeze making them chill slightly.

“Oh where is she going?” She asked as she looked up at him.

“She’s going to Japan for a bigger job opportunity” he responded.

“Are we going to throw a going away party for her?”

“No, she wants the news to be on the down low, until she actually leaves, but she’ll miss this place and Seoul” he said.

“So you’re going to need a new assistant?” She asked and he nodded.

“Yeah and I was thinking about training you for it, but it wouldn’t be fair to the ones who’s been working here for years” he said. “So I want you to help me with the interview process, since she’ll be gone when it happens.”

“I’ll be happy to help you.” Nari would never guessed she would be saying that sentence to Seonghwa at all. But in her eyes, she can see him trying to change to be nice.

Just then he leaned in and pecked her on the lips and began to walk back inside. “Oh, you can call me Seonghwa when it’s after or out of work.”

Once he left, Nari felt her cheeks heat up and blush. Did she just really kiss her future boss. She shook it off once she felt the breeze of the night air and went inside. She felt that she was being watched earlier, but shook it off and went back inside.

Once she was home, she took off her dress and went and took a shower. She collapsed on her bed holding her lips, her cheeks once again blushing. The night didn’t feel real in her head, but it really was.

“His lips felt soft” she thought as she touched her lips once more.

[gio-is-writing]

Bruno meeting his childhood friend before he became a mafioso? And she helped his dad and himself a lot back then? Maybe they meet again because he saved her from a few guys harassing her and they both recognize each other? And he's all protective of her now like how he was with his dad

REQUEST:  Bruno meeting his childhood friend before he became a mafioso? And she helped his dad and himself a lot back then? Maybe they meet again because he saved her from a few guys harassing her and they both recognize each other? And he's all protective of her now like how he was with his dad

ngl this is my best work i think heodbwisns I have a lot of Bruno request and i’m happy to comply. I hope you enjoy this one!!

Pairing: Bruno Bucciarati x Fem! Reader

Warning: mentions of drugs, reader being harassed but nothing graphic

BY FATE WE MEET

Living by the coast was peaceful, the sound of waves under the warm sunlight every day. Evenings were peaceful and the sight of dawn was simply beautiful. Bruno sat on the old boats propped on sand while his father collected what they got from their boat and prepared everything to head home, Bruno looked up at the hill by the beach with few houses and spotting his right away. He was lost in thought wondering what his mom would do for dinner when he heard some shouting. Another boat arrived on the other side of the dock while a smiling girl standing on the very edge of said boat waved energetically at him. As soon as the concrete platform was close enough, she jumped right out and ran in his direction, Bruno jumping down from where he sat.

“Hey Bruno!” she hugged him briefly “How was your day? Good catch?”

“Hello (Y/N), it was pretty good today” he answered smiling “How about yours?”

“It was great, a lot of big fish!”

(Y/N) was an enthusiastic little girl, her father was also a fisherman and they lived a few houses away from where Bruno lived. They had grown close thanks to their fathers being well acquainted over the same business and having really similar schedules for work but not saying more than a few greetings or a little chat here and there. While Bruno was very similar to his father in the social sense, (Y/N) was a social butterfly who enchanted whoever met her. The young boy enjoyed her company and considered her a friend after meeting pretty often.

When his father gathered all their things, Bruno rushed to help him carry some things after saying his goodbyes to the girl. She answered with a happy ‘Ciao!’ and hurried to help her own father so they could also go home.

Days like this were the usual, Bruno liked to join his father and help with anything he could and return to his mother’s delicious dinner. This was an everyday routine he grew up to until the impossible occurred, his parents decided to divorce. He was so confused, why was this happening and why were they making him choose? But he knew his answer almost right away, he would stay with his father no matter what.

After his mom left he felt odd, he definitely felt her absence and missed her bed time stories but working with dad was what he liked the most. After a long day out, there was some knocking on their door and his dad answered just to call for him after. Standing by the door was (Y/N) with a brown box and a bright smile. He was surprised, now knowing what the girl was doing on his house at this hour.

“(Y/N)?”

“Hi, I bought you some cookies” “Me and my mammina made them for you”

“Thank you (Y/N)”

“It’s no problem, let me know if you like them!”

“We sure will”

And turning around she ran to her house, as Bruno and his father walked outside to see she got there safetely, her own parents were standing by her door and waved back at both males. Bruno’s dad waved and walked back inside once the little girl reached her house. Bruno smiled softly and followed him closing the door.

After dinner they decided they could taste some of the cookies (Y/N) brought for them, opening the box there were six chocolate chip cookies. Each grabbing one and biting into it they sighed at the same time, they were delicious! After that day, she would occasionally bring more cookies or some other treats she and her mother cooked that day. Some days they stayed outside talking or playing made up games until the sky was dark. Bruno really liked (Y/N), a lot.

After his dad made a little business for tourist visiting the area, they were more busy than ever. Bruno couldn’t say he didn’t like it, he thought that some tourist were funny and working was great, he still missed (Y/N) at times but he was so caught up in working that he sometimes forgot about everything else like anyone’s normal life.

But it seemed that fate didn’t want Bruno to have a normal life. If only those two men hadn’t found out of his dad little business, if only his father had refused that trip.

Standing along on the hospital corridor he was a nervous wreck, he couldn’t stop worrying for his father safety and tears ran freely down his cheeks without noticing. Until he heard a voice calling out for him. Lifting his eyes from the ground he saw a baby blue dress approaching, a worried expression on her face.

“Bruno!”

He broke in her tiny arms, crying his heart out. Her father was a few meters away talking with the nurses that held him back just moments before. He looked so scared but after he was notified of the accident (unfortunately when his daughter was with his) they both rushed to the hospital. (Y/N) couldn’t help but cry too, Bruno held her tightly as he sobbed all he was keeping from coming out. The girl was so moved, she couldn’t understand what had happend exactly but she knew that Bruno needed all her help to feel better.

“They wanted to kill him” he said angrily “All because of those stupid drugs!”

(Y/N) only heard about those things from her parents that strictly told her to stay away from people offering her stuff. Those were the things they carried and they were never good.

“I’m sorry Bruno”

A few minutes passed where he calmed down and told her everything he knew as best as possible and explain the whole situation (the best way a seven year old did to a six year old anyway) She was relieved to hear his dad was okay for the most part but he had to stay in the hospital. She hugged Bruno tightly again before whispering.

“I’ll be here for you”

As they passed Bruno stayed glued to his father bed just like he did before. He would stay day and night beside him in case anything was needed. They didn’t really knew that many people, living far into the suburbs offered that much but there was someone that visited every few days.

Just like before, (Y/N) visited often to bring food for Bruno. She had told her mother she was concerned for him since “he has no one that cooks delicious food for him” and complained that hospital’s food looked ‘yucky’ . Therefore her mother made her two lunch bags so she could go to the hospital and eat with Bruno. He really appreciated it since he too believed that hospital food was the worst.

One day she held into his father hand while Bruno was sleeping on the sofa of the room. His father didn’t react to her touch but she knew he was hearing her.

“Don’t worry signor Bucciarati, Bruno is strong”

She recieved no verbal answer but she could swear she felt a tiny squeeze from his weak hand and that was enough answer.

Those visits continued until one day Bruno said it was ‘too dangerous’ for her. She didn’t quite understand but her visits reluctantly lessened after that plus starting school. Eventually years passed and she stopped visiting, maybe too caught up in school and things young girls did. Bruno grew up fast and made a decision that would change his life forever but thought was necessary.

—

Bruno made a name for himself in Passione, earning the trust of his higher ups and the people in town. Even after his father passing he found a safe haven in the organization, keeping peace in his territory and most importantly making sure drugs where non existent.

Walking around town was always calming for him, greeting a few business owners he collected protection money from and old ladies that recognized him. Sitting in one of tables outside a coffee shop he relaxed under the warm sun, the city was mostly calm on the daily.

“Leave me alone, please” said a female voice lowly, clearly scared.

“Come on cara, stare us a minute of your time”

“or a little taste”

“Per favore, don’t touch me”

Bruno was growing anxious and angry as the conversation continued. Turning his head to where the discussion was taking place he noticed the small frame of a young girl surrounded by three grown man that looked dirty at first glance and perverded eyes.

She took a few hurried steps before she was abruptly stopped and turned around by one of this men grabbing her arm. She yelped as her heels almost broke.

“You’ll do as we say missy so we avoid problems”

“I don’t-“

Another yelp as she was pulled into one of the others man chest. Bruno could barely make their faces but he had enough, if there was one thing he hated almost as much was harassment and that would not be tolerated in his territory.

Standing up and quickening his pace before that dirty hand on her back could go any lower he stood just a few feet away.

“I’ll appreciate you let go of her right this instant”

“why would I do that?”

“I-“

As the girl turned her face to meet his in a look of pure distress, he was taken aback. Those eyes, he knew those (E/C) eyes too well. It had been too long since he last saw that beautiful shade and meeting them like this made his blood boil. He closed the distance in a second and firmly pulled her from the mans grip.

“If you ever lay another finger on her I’ll make sure you never see daylight again”

“ha! and who are you?” the tallest tried to fight back while the others two seemed to recognize the man before them.

“Bruno Bucciarati”

Realization hit and he paled in seconds, taking a few steps back he nodded and walked away with the other two. He stared at them until their figures disappeared so he could look back at the young woman beside him. Those sparkling eyes stared back at him in shock, wearing a baby blue dress just like when they were young. Bruno smiled down at her as he let go of her arm.

“Bruno...”

“(Y/N)...”

They stared at eachother for a whole minute before she almost threw herself at him in a big hug. Bruno smiled into her hair and hugged back tightly.

“Thank you for helping me”

“Is the least I could do, are you okay?”

“I’m good” she sighed with a small smile “You have a lot of explaining to do”

“Let’s talk it over a nice cup of tea”

Bruno explained everything he could to her, commenting on his father passing and current status everyone knew of. She listened closely with her full attention on him, she felt such relief of having him here with her, knowing he was okay after so long and losing all comunication. She then explained how her family moved to Rome but she came back after school since she missed the ‘tranquility of being beside the sea’

“I’m so happy you’re doing good Bruno”

“I’m glad we could meet again” his voice was above a whisper but she still heard and a smirk made an appearance on her features.

“Fate got us back together”

Silence wasn’t awkward or uncomfortable, it felt calming and relaxing just being on each other’s presence. She closed her eyes as she sipped from the cup and breathing in the warm air of the city.

“I can still cook those cookies you liked”

“Never leave my side again (Y/N)”

[elysiashelby]

In Another World - T. Shelby Imagine Ch. 3.3

Paring: (Eventual) Thomas Shelby x Aliena Welsh (OC)

Fandom: Peaky Blinders

Word Count: 4, 479

WARNINGS: Cursing

Summary: Aliena Welsh has been living in the universe of the show Peaky Blinders for 7 months now. Tommy and Aliena have worked out a bargain on how he should be dealing with his PTSD. Will it help him? Or will it just make everything awkward? Also, she travels to London with Ada, but ends up making a new acquaintance. 

MASTERLIST  CHAPTER 3.2  CHAPTER 4

A/N: This chapter and 3.2 are both considered extras. You can move onto chapter 4 without really reading them. I honestly wrote chapter 4 before 3.2 and 3.3. So, that will explain why Ch. 4 is a little different. THANKS FOR READING!

“Ali, wake up.”

Instantly, me eyes opened and Tommy was there towering over me with his hand on me shoulder.

“What?” I asked, kind of annoyed.

“Get in the bed. You have about 30 more minutes before you need to get up, all right?”

All I heard was get in the bed. 

Say no more, sir, I will! 

With me feet, I launched meself into his bed and pulled the covers over me body. Me left arm and neck ached like a mother, but I was determined to go back to sleep.

Through squinted eyes, I watched him leave and once he did, I closed me eyes. 

When me eyes opened again, I checked the clock. I only had a minute left to myself. I sighed tiredly. I ruffled the front of me hair, playing with it a little bit then hauled myself up. I made up Tommy’s bed, then left. 

I opened the door to me room, went in, and immediately walked to the mirror. I looked at me bruises. There was literally like no change. I sucked on me teeth before looking away. 

‘What the kinel am I going to do now?’

I didn’t have another turtleneck dress. I huffed while shuffling through me clothes. There was absolutely nothing in me closet that would cover me neck. I picked a dress that had like a “mid-necklike.” It didn’t cover it fully, but it got most of it. 

I got down on me knees, laid flat on the ground, and then pulled out me suitcases from under the bed. I opened them both up. I rummaged to find anything that resembled scarfs, and Lady Luck was on me side today ‘cause I found a couple! 

I smiled in delight and chose the one that went best with me pale pink dress. I put it on, put back all the items I took out, and slid them underneath me bed. I got up only to take off the scarf because I had to do me hair. 

Once I was done, I went downstairs. Polly was there, drinking her morning tea. 

“G’morning, Pol.” I said while aiming for the stove.

“Mornin’, Ali.” Polly replied, “Today, I need you to go to get groceries.”

I nodded, but then it struck me. Lizzie’s been getting the groceries for John. I hummed while looking at Pol. 

I started. “So, Polly about John’s groceries...?”

“Yes?”

“Last time I got them, the house was already packed.”

“What?” She asked loudly. I heard her cup clink on the table.

“Yeah. I think John found ‘imself a woman.”

“No shit!” Polly huffed before laughing. “Finally! I mean those kids of his have been needing a mother, Ali. They can’t have just you. Besides, you’re the nanny. Oh, I hope it’s someone who won’t break his heart. Did you see her?”

I couldn’t exactly lie to her outright. I mean this woman can tell when Tommy is lying, you think I’m gonna be the exception? Nah.

I nodded. “She had short black hair and was tall. Not taller than ‘im, but way taller than me. Like way taller.”

I heard her light a match then a puff. She chuckled. “Aliena, sorry to break it to you, but everyone is taller than you. Finn will end up passing you in a year!” 

Oh, did that make her laugh!

I looked at her from the corner of me eye and made a “tch” sound. 

She walked over to me with her arms open, so she could hug me. “Oh, I’m sorry. But you have to admit it. How short are you again?”

“5 feet.” I grumbled.

“What-? What was that?”

“5 feet.” I said clearer this time, but still soft.

Pol stepped away from me and patted my head. 

“Ali, you’re only 5 feet?” Ada yelled while coming into the room. 

I groaned loudly. I whispered to myself, “For fuck’s sake!” 

“Yep, I’m only 5 feet and a quarter of an inch.” I said loudly.

A chair scraped against the floor. “Huh, how about that! I thought that you had to have been, what, 5’2. But, 5 feet, wow!”

“Yeah, shut it.” 

Ada had a smug smile. I put her food down in front of her and then Polly’s. I had to finish making me own scran. Ada and Polly were talking. I was just swaying while cooking. 

“Aliena, how would you like to have the day off?” Polly asked.

I twirled ‘round to face her. “Really?” The excitement practically dripped from me voice. 

“Yeah. You and Ada should go into the city. Have a girls day! I’ll take care of the kids today.”

Me gaze shifted to Ada. Me excitement gone. She avoided me eyes. I sighed. “Okay, then! Thanks so much, Polly!”

I was halfway done with me scran when Polly got up and put her dishes in the sink. She walked over to the both of us and rubbed our shoulders before heading off. 

I waited ‘til I heard the door slammed shut and then kicked Ada under the table. 

“Ow!”

“What the hell are you roping me into, Ada?” It’s hard to shout and whisper at the same time! She wouldn’t look at me. “Is this about Freddie?”

Her eyes practically bulged out of her head. I poked the inside of me cheek with me tongue, folded me arms, and leaned back against me chair. 

“Fuck, Ada! What do you need me for?”

“Pol has been watching me lately! She’s not falling for my stories, so I figured I’d start telling her that I want to spend days off with you. And hey, you get paid leave!” She smiled before getting up and putting her dishes in the sink. “C’mon. I’ll be with you ‘till the afternoon.”

I smoothed out me forehead, resting me elbows on the table.

I muttered. “You’re lucky that I needed to go and buy some new clothes.” I stabbed the fork in me omelet.

Ada and I took a train to London. We looked ‘round a few stores, but we were talking so much that I kept forgetting to buy clothes. True to her word, Freddie came to pick her up after we ate lunch. I was left all alone after that, sitting at a table sipping on hot chocolate. 

Yeah, don't care for coffee or tea. So, I opt for hot chocolate. Luckily, it was always cold here, so I get to feel validated!

After finishing me drink, I went back into some of the stores that Ada and I went into. I bought three new dresses that had a turtleneck. I also bought two regular dresses and a nightgown. I would have bought some undergarments, but they were just too different and difficult for me to like understand. They did have cup sizes and yeah! I'm not going to explain it. I'm gonna need Polly or Ada for that adventure. 

To be frank, walking around with no supervision was terrifying and liberating at the same time. I was deathly afraid of the possibility of a man dragging me into an alleyway and mug me or... yeah. However, it was also one of me rare moments where I'm being independent. 

I was in London on me bill!

I was walking around with me new threads when I was tapped on me shoulder. 

"Excuse me, can you help me?" The girl said with an American accent. She was absolutely beautiful despite the fact she looked absolutely bladdered.

"Ye wha?" I slipped out. 

"What?"

I shook me head and said. "Sorry, um, I said Pardon. What did you need?"

She chuckled. "Oh, okay! You know I've never heard that accent before. Where's it from?"

As I answered I started taking in her appearance with more detail. 

She had dirty blonde hair. "Liverpool. It's Liverpudlian. I can do an American accent, if you can't understand me!"

She was at least 2 to 3 inches taller than me and her eyes were blue. 

"Really! I mean you don't have to do it, but I'd love to hear it." 

She was quite thin. Her breasts were large, probably bigger than mine. Her body shape might be a pear like mine or maybe an hourglass. 

I started to talk with an American accent. "Um, I don't know what to say. So, I'll just say Hi and how are you?"

Her makeup was smeared. Her eyes resembled a raccoon's and her lipstick dragged from the corner of her lip to the middle of her cheek. She had her heels in one hand, leaving her barefoot. Her hair had previously been kept up, but it was now mostly undone. 

She giggled. "Oh my god! It's so good! Have you ever been to America? Is that why you're so good at it?"

I nodded. My analysis was over. "I lived there practically my whole life. I learned how to do this to like blend in. Kids are pretty vicious."

"Ugh! Adults too! I always get shit just because I don't have an English accent. I mean I wasn't born here, what do you expect? My dad was born here, though. We came here after my mom died and then he became an MP. So, I'm basically stuck here with no real fucking friends!"

She hummed while picking at the dirt under her fingernails. Then, she clapped and snapped her fingers. "Right! Can you help me get to the Ritz Hotel?" 

I laughed and nodded. "Yeah, I can help you. Follow me. You were going the wrong direction, love." 

I heard her mutter, "Fuck." 

We started walking to the Ritz. 

"So, what's your name? I'm Cassiopeia Johnson. But everyone just calls me Cassie."

"Aliena Welsh. So far my nickname has been Ali." 

"Did you have a different nickname?"

"A friend who I considered to be my best friend used to call me Rosie. She said she would know I was coming because I brought the scent of roses with me." I smiled at the thought. It was a true story. The girl who I considered to be my best friend back home gave me that nickname because I would always buy rose fragrant stuff. 

"How come she still isn't your best friend? Did you guys have a fight?"

"No, actually. It was because I moved here. It was a sudden move. I didn't even get the chance to say goodbye to her." I pretended to be saddened as I looked down at me hands. 

Cassie put a hand on me shoulder. "Why don't you send her a letter or something?"

I shook me head before meeting her concerned gaze. "She's off becoming a nurse. I don't want to interrupt her with my drama."

She hummed and removed her hand from me shoulder. 

"So, how far are we exactly from the hotel?" Cassie asked me. 

I hummed as I wondered. "I think about 20 blocks. That's about a mile, I think."

She groaned loudly. "Fuck! God, that lame party was not worth all this." Cassie rubbed her face with one hand. 

I smiled at the sight.  

"How old are you, Ali?"

"I'm 16. I'll be turning 17 in January."

"Oh, really! How nice. I'm 17 too! I'm gonna be 18 in February. When? What day were you born? Maybe we have the same zodiac sign!"

I chuckled at her peppy attitude, I just told her me age and she forgot within a split second. "January 24th."

"This can't be real. Mine's the 10th! We're both Aquariuses. This has to be fate or something!" She clasped her hands together as if she was gonna pray. 

That's when I gave her a face. I haven’t been around this much energy in a while!

She saw and stopped. "Sorry. I had a lot to drink last night."

I shook my head. "No, you're fine. It's just been a while since I've been around someone so cheerful. And someone who is crazy about horoscopes and zodiac signs. I had another friend who was like that. She used to swear up and down that she was an Gemini even though she was actually a Aries. I think her zodiac sign was correct."

Cassie nodded and smiled. "So, do you live here in London?" Her tone was meek and she kept twisting her hands. 

"No. I live in Small Heath, Birmingham." 

"Oh…"

There was a slight silence after that. 

"Well," Cassie said, "you know where I'm staying at, so maybe if you want to chat sometime? We could?" Her face was red. 

I laughed. "Yeah, I'd love to hang out. I work almost all week, though, so that'll be hard."

"You have a job?" She asked, quite shocked might I add. 

"Yeah. My parents are dead, so I have to fend for myself. My bosses gave me a room in their house."

"That's just-! Wow! You know I always thought about teaching kids, or working in a flower shop if I ever needed to work. What is it that you do?"

"I'm a nanny-slash-maid. I take care of one of my employer's kids. I make sure they are fed, clothed, bathed. I teach them how to read and write. Then, I make sure that all my employers are fed and that the house all of us live in is clean. I don't do all of the cleaning in the house in its entirety. I get help from my female boss. Her name's Polly. Yeah, she basically splits up the work for me." While talking, I was gesturing with me hands and nodding me head a lot. 

"Are they nice?"

"Yeah. Of course, they are. They have to be nice, if they don't want spit in their food." I looked at her and stuck out me tongue. We both laughed. 

Cassie grabbed me arm and linked them together. 

When I finally managed to deliver her to the hotel, she offered me a ride home. I took her offer. I had to wait for her to get dressed properly, though. 

"So, you live here by yourself?" I shouted since she was in the shower. 

"Yeah! I come here really on the weekends, or when I don't want to be near my dad! But believe me, Angelica's room is so much bigger." Cassie shouted over the running water. 

"Who's Angelica?"

"Angelica Sallow! She's the daughter of Earl William Sallow! She's also been my friend here since I arrived. She's a nice enough girl, to be completely honest, but I don't know. She's so stuck up. She always goes on and on about never getting married. Or, the man needs to realize that he's beneath her for the relationship to work. I swear I pity the poor soul who falls for her. And God, don't even get me started on her shadow!" Cassie walked out with a towel wrapped around her body and another wrapped her hair. 

I was sitting on a lounge chair with me feet up. "Too late, love! You already started. Get on with it!"

Cassie walked to her closet. "The name is Christiana King. She is the granddaughter of a Viscount. Angelica and Christiana have been since childhood, and it's known among high society that wherever Angie goes Tina is not too far." 

I made the word "Wow" with my lips, but didn't say anything. 

"I know right." Cassie said while buttoning up her dress. "Sometimes, I get the feeling that they are more than just friends. If you get what I'm saying." 

I instantly tensed up. The next thing she says will determine if I ghost her or not. "And so what if they were?"

She shrugged. "I think it's Tina that likes Angie. But Angie is straight, she's been with a guy or two in secret. Meanwhile, Tina has never been with one! Even if they wanted to be in a relationship, they probably never could. High Society is too strict about a woman's image for them not to be married off. Or, they’ll have to be married off for political gain."

She passed. 

"That's true. Poor Tina, then."

"Yes, poor Tina. You know, I've talked more to you than anyone else these past few years. I mean it's so easy to open up to you."

I nodded as I had me head tipped back on the chair. "Well, it's easier for people to rant when it's to a stranger." No consqeunces, usually.

Cassie laughed. "Oh, come now! Don't say that! We're not strangers anymore. I've told you loads of things." She paused for a moment. "I know, it's because you haven't shared anything. How about you get something off your chest?"

I brought me head back up and faced her. I had to sit on me knees in the chair to look at her though.

We talked the whole walk too. I felt a real bond with her. I mean if we decide to stay friends, then she'll be me first one here.

 "Alright!" I said. "Let's see… Oh, well I find one of my bosses attractive."

Cassie gasped. "No way!"

"Yep! Oh, Cassie, if you'd only seen him. He is so fit! His eyes are so dreamy and his cheekbones are so defined!"

"Aliena, how old is he?"

"He's 28. We're 12 years apart."

"Huh, not too bad. By my luck, I'll never meet a decent guy and will be married to a guy three times my age."

"Eee!" I exclaimed in disgust. 

She gave me the same face. 

"Well, are you gonna pursue him?" She asked while doing her makeup. 

"I don’t want to make the first move. Plus, I'd doubt he'd even see me in that way. He's not exactly an open book, ya know. So, you have to be slow and patient with him. He's barely let me in like a month ago and we've known each for seven months now. But you know what, that makes sense. I mean the man is 28 and if we did get chummy fast, that would've been weird, to say the least."

"That's true. But can't say it would be illegal. Age of consent is 16 here."

"Maybe so, but it goes against a lot of social constructs and moral values and ethical principles of our modern society."

We both hummed. 

"Would you mind being with a 28 year old?" I asked. 

"Nope. I wouldn't even mind a 38 year old as long as he was good-looking and wealthy." She smiled at me through the mirror. 

Me mouth fell open in shock. The corners of me mouth turned into a smile. "Cassie, you're my fucking soulmate!"

We started having a big 'ol laughing fit. 

When we calmed down, I said. "But I'm still not going to do anything! I admit he's very attractive, but he is my boss. I need this job and helping him find happiness is completely fine with me."

"Aw, aren't you a saint!" Cassie exclaimed, quite sarcastically. 

"Was that sarcasm, Cassie?"

She stuck her tongue out at me. 

I scoffed playfully! “Oh, I don’t play with sarcasm!"

I leaped for her and she screamed. Let's just say the fight ended in a draw. Yeah, a nice tie!

When we finished, we went down and Cassie had her car running to take me home. I felt pity for the driver who was probably waiting for a good two hours. 

'I've done this loads of times. I've relinquished all of me troubles and secrets to a person who claims they want to be me bestest of all best friends, only for us never to contact each other again. It's disappointing, but again- I'm used to it.'

I hopped out of her car and waved her goodbye. 

"Next time, I won't go for the back of your knees!" Cassie yelled. 

"Ta' even though we both know that's a cheap shot." 

She stuck her tongue at me and I did the same. Then, she left and I watched. A weird pit in me stomach formed. 

'It sucks to get used to something so sad. I really just wanted that movie trope kind of best friend, but I never had it before. I wanted Cassie to be it. But only time will tell.'

I sighed heavily, kicking a pebble before turning around and unlocking the door. I heard the sound of shoes against the floor, but I didn't pay attention to it. 

“And where the fuck have you been?” Polly shouted.

Me eyes almost came out of me head. She was yelling at me.

“Wha-?”

“Do you realize what time it is? Do you?”

“I, uh. Innit about 8?”

“It’s 10 pm, Aliena. 10 pm!”

I pursed me lips while looking down at me shoes. “Oh…” I let out a nervous chuckle.

“Oh. All she says is ‘Oh’.”

Tommy cleared his throat. “Ali, Ada said she lost you while youse were shopping. What ‘appened?”

I looked at Ada. She was biting her nails with her gaze trained away from me. 

The little-!

I sighed, tightly closing me eyes before making up at lie. “Yeah, something caught me eye at a different shop. I just went out of the shop we were in without even realizing it. When I went back, she was already gone. Then, there was this girl who needed help with directions and I helped her out and I made a friend. She gave me a ride home.” I was switching me weight on each leg, bouncing like a divvy.

Thomas sighed. A ciggie in his hands. “There you have it, Pol. She made a friend.”

The crowd dispersed while Polly walked over to me. She put her hands on me arms. “Never run off by yourself like that again. Understand me?” She said.

I nodded. “Never again.”

Polly pulled me into her arms and hugged me. 

“Go on. Go to bed.” She pushed me towards the staircase while a hand flew to her mouth, covering it.

I did as she wanted.

I was just abar done brushing out the tangles in me hair when there was a knock on me door. 

“Come in.” I said.

The door opened ‘n Tommy walked in. I gave him a tight lipped smile.

He cleared his throat. “Are we doing this therapy thing t’night, or?”

“Yeah. Yep.” I put down me hairbrush and started walking toward him.

Tommy curtly nodded, turned ‘round, and walked into his room. 

I’m not going to lie. It was very awkward. 

Very stiffy, he sat down on his bed while I stood there, kinda just watchin’. Then, he rolled over to his side and laid down. 

Once he did, I found me same spot. I sat down at his bedside, me arms folded and resting on a sliver of space on the bed. 

I barely opened me mouth to start talking when I was rudely interrupted. 

“No. I don’t like this. Get on the bed. I can’t have you falling asleep there like last time.” 

He grabbed me arms and started pulling me into the bed. 

I reflexively snickered. “Wait! Wait.”

“What?” He asked with his beautiful, enchanting eyes staring up at me. 

I was standing on me knees on the bed, his hands still on me arms. 

“Can I be on the other side?” I asked.

He blinked rapidly. “Why?”

“I don’t like sleepin’ so close to the door. If someone comes in, you’ll die first, then me.” I shook me head as if that was the most obvious piece of information that everyone knew.

Tommy laughed. He actually laughed at me. “Yeah, whatever. Fine by me.”

He let go of me arms and started shuffling back to where he originally laid. I, on the other hand, climbed over his lap to get where I wanted. 

Once I was there, I sat criss-cross applesauce style with me hands in me lap. It was just for safety reasons. I didn’t want him to accidentally see me undies. 

A silence enveloped the room.

I huffed before deciding to start talking. “Ok! The friend I made today was a girl around my age. Her name is Cassie ‘n she’s staying at the Ritz Hotel. It’s a real classy joint. Made me feel small, but whatever. She’s really air-headed like I coulda been a thief and nicked some of her stuff, but she let me into her room without a thought. But, you know a lot of people back home always told me that I looked really innocent despite me ‘aving a resting bitch face.” 

Tommy snorted.

“It’s not funny!” I pushed him. “Kids at school wouldn’t talk to me ‘cause I intimidated them. Anyway, she told me that her dad is an MP.” His eyes darted to meet me own.

 I scoffed and pushed him again. “You liked that bit, didn’t cha? Geez. Focus on going to sleep, dummy. Close your eyes. Go on! Close them.”

Tommy scooted his body down and did as I said.

“She was really nice. I don’t know if we’ll actually be friends, though. It would be nice. We got along really well, but could’ve been fake. You never really know when people are fake until after you shared a moment with them, if that makes any sense? Yeah.”

I didn’t know what to say after that, so I started to hum for a little while. 

“Oh, I’ll try singing a song. And before you try resisting, it’s not any song that you would know. So, just shut up and listen.” 

Just then an evil thought ran across me mind.

‘I’m not gonna lie. I’m dying in the inside!’

“Happy or sad, Tommy?” Me nails were digging into me palms. I was trying so hard not to tick. It would either be a bunch of snaps or I’ll clap me hands wildly. However, I didn’t stop the grin on me face.

His eyes never opened. “Sad.” 

I instantly hated meself ‘cause the way this man said that one simple word broke me heart. 

I cleared me throat and racked me mind for a sad song. I couldn’t really decide on one, so I went with my default which was “Bitches Broken Hearts” by Billie Eilish. I went onto sing “Crazy” by Patsy Cline and “Summertime Sadness” by Lana Del Rey. Then, I sang “I’m Not The Only One” by Sam Smith, and let me tell you even though I had fun singing it- it was still embarrassing ‘cause me voice kept cracking at some of the high and low notes. 

I sang “ilomilo” by Billie Eilish. For me unexpected “final” song, I sang “The One That Got Away” by Katy Perry. 

Even though I was sure he was asleep, I still sang until it was more yawns than lyrics. The difference was that I was singing anything I wanted. Since I was already singing Katy Perry, I sang “Teenage Dream.” 

Me final song was “Boyfriend” by Best Coast. I gave up halfway, laid down, and fell asleep.

TAG LIST: @amirahiddleston​ @nemesis729​

[junquisite]

Fated to love 2

PAIRING : Park Junhee X OC X Kim Wooseok

GENRE : Fluff, Angst

WORD COUNT : 2.9k

PARTS :  I+P  1  2

AUTHOR’S NOTE : From now on italics mean that its real but from a past moment, so memories are in italics, regular font means present.

Seungyoun joined Wooseok at the cafe he invited him to and wooseok scowled at the first words that left his friend’s mouth.

“So what did you fucked up now?” 

“I did no such thing.” Wooseok gritted out as he passed Seungyoun’s usual order towards him - Latte and a pastry while he sipped on his ice americano. He vaguely noticed how similar Seungyoun and Bora’s tastes are but then the both of them used to love going to different restaurants and cafes together so.

 “You only specifically call me for breakfast when you do something. And Bora has returned from swiss 2 weeks ago. Thats too long for you to not fuck up.” Seungyoun  concluded as he happily smiled at his visibly pissed friend.

Wooseok sighed and told Seugnyoun everything - from the party to the dinner he crashed. Seungyoun stared at him for far too long he was comfortable with so he fidgeted with his phone.

“I don't know if you intentionally do this but why do you act like an asshole to her when you love her?”

Wooseok sputtered a loose explanation about how it was not his fault but Seungyoun knew it was just his jealousy acting up - which knowing Wooseok, he would never accept. Seungoyun also pointedly noted how he didn't deny the part that he was in love with her and that was interesting. 

“Apologise to her Wooseok. You were too much.” Seungyoun finally said and Wooseok nodded - already planning on how to apologise to her.

~

“I am so sorry i had to call you both in so late! I wanted to meet for lunch but I had an important meeting, but thank you for making time to meet me at this time!” Junhee saw as she trailed off when she looked up and only saw him.

“Where is Donghun?” she asked and he nodded outside.

“He had an important call, he’ll be in soon.”  he said and she nodded and got back up from the crouching position she was in before with her back towards him which led to her rambling as she had done. 

There was an awkward silence in the office as she fumbled with the papers and he kept staring at her.

“Did Donghun say anything after you left?” she asked finally and he nodded in a negative.

“Why?”

“He's too smart to not figure out that we have known each other longer than meeting yesterday for the first time.” she remarked and Junhee shrugged.

“He figured you were the girl I met at switzerland. He wanted to know if I was uncomfortable working with you and wanted to cancel the collaboration.” he said and saw as her eyes widened, she really wanted this to happen.

“Oh..do you want to? Cancel it?” she asked softly and he wanted to go close to her, comfort her and promise her to even bring the stars if she asked for, this collaboration was nothing.

“No. we’ll move forward with it.”

She nodded and the room fell in silence again.

He saw her hesitate and sigh. “Why..did he think you would be uncomfortable with working with me?” she asked and he mentally debated if he should tell how he was when he got back. Finally he decided to come clean, she should know that he's here, and now in front of her.

“When i got back.. It was hard to concentrate on work - i  could only think of you. A girl i met in switzerland whom i knew nothing about more than that she lived in seoul and was returning a week after me. So the sunday you were supposed to come back, a day before i checked all the flights coming to seoul from swiss, even checked the ones who’ll have pit stops. There were 7 in total and I was ready to spend the whole day at the airport just to see you again. He stopped me.

He said something which made me listen to him and not come.”

He saw that she was staring at him wide-eyed, hanging on his every word.

“He said i left my contact number to her and she still hasn't texted me for the whole week. That i was just a vacation fling for her and meant nothing more then that and that i need to stop being dumb.” he finished.

He saw her flinch as he was talking but that was exactly what Donghun had told him. And she needed to know it too.

“I'm sorry  I was late, should we get started?” Donghun asked as he came in and the gloomy mood of the room slightly lifted as Bora gave him a strained smile. If Donghun noticed it, he didn't comment on it.

“I ordered us Sandwiches. I hope you both will like it.'' She said as she passed both of them Subway bags and Junhee took his, only to look inside and find a chocochip cookie which was missing from Donghun’s as he saw him emptying the content on the table.

He looked across at her to see she was avoiding his eyes.

“It's 3 am.” she said incredulously staring at him.

“You don't know the fun of eating Subway sandwiches at 3 am.” as he wrapped a scarf around her and pulled her outside her room. Junhee pulled a whiney Bora to the subway 5 minutes away from her Hotel and went to order 2 chicken sandwiches and ice tea.

“Cookie?” he asked her and she said no.

He came back with one chocochip cookie though.

“I love these. I sometimes feel like Subway chocochip cookies are the best ever in the world.” he said as he took a big bite of it and moaned in pleasure. She slapped his arm in between her laughs.

Junhee took a  bite of his cookie. She remembered it seemed. Now was it a good sign actually or not, he wondered.

~

Bora was tired and only craving her bed by the time she reached home. So she was not expecting any guest - and especially not Kim Wooseok. So when she saw him, a sigh involuntarily slipped through her mouth.

“What are you doing here?” she asked.

“I brought dinner.” he said as he showed her the bag he was holding. It was the restaurant she loved but it only took advance bookings and she was sure this was an impromptu visit so it meant he paid whoever had the chance to bring her food. She vaguely wondered how much he paid the person.

“How long have you been here?” she asked as she realised it was almost midnight - way past dinner time.

“A while.” he muttered and she sighed. It meant hours.

“Why didn't you wait inside? The code is the same as we set when we bought this.” she muttered as she walked past him to open the door and wave him inside.

“I didn't want to intrude.” he answered and she scoffed, turning around to stare at him.

“Why are you actually here Wooseok?” she asked and he looked away, clearly avoiding her eyes. She saw as his ear reddened and she raised an eyebrow.

“I wanted to apologise.. For the party and yesterday dinner too.” he muttered while looking down at the floor and she ran a hand through her hair. Her face softened.

“I have had dinner already.” she settled on as he looked up at her and nodded, slightly looking like a kicked puppy. “I’ll get going then. Goodnight.” he told her as he turned to leave.

“Wooseok..” she called his name and he turned around. He looked young but tired, like how they used to be when they used to have their finals and would spend nights living on energy drinks and coffees - no matter how cold their relationship had turned now and how much she hated his guts now- he was still her best friend that she has known since kindergarten.

“Stay.. i’ll sit with you while you eat. And you can sleep in the guest room.”

~

Bora woke up to the smell of fresh eggs and toast and coffee and if you ask her, that probably is what heavens smell like to her. She freshened up and then dragged herself to her kitchen to see Wooseok cooking her breakfast.

“Did you knew you had nothing in your refrigerator except for alcohol?” he asked her and she shrugged.

“I'm pretty sure there was coffee somewhere here.” she said vaguely pointing to her kitchen and he shook his head at her.

“I had to go out for grocery shopping to make you breakfast.” he said as he served her and she thanked him.

“Take whatever food is left to your house though, it’ll go bad here.” she said as Woosoek joined her in eating.

“Shouldn't you learn how to cook about now?” he asked her and she shrugged.

“I usually grab breakfast either at the office or the coffee shop in front of it. Or at the main house if i'm summoned. Plus there’s no one around to teach me to cook.'' She spoke the last part lowly and Wooseok felt his heart clench.

“You can always ask my mom, she would love to teach you.”

As soon as the words slipped his mouth, her head shot up to stare at him as if he grew out another head.

“She hates me Wooseok.” she said with such a painfully straight face that it made even him laugh.

Breakfast ended and she helped him with the dishes.

“I’ll get going now. I have to go home and get dressed too.” he said and she nodded as she walked him to the door.

“Bora..” he trailed off and she smiled at him and for a second he felt like they were back in highschool where she would happily follow him around, laughing with him and making him feel like he was at the top of the world.

“Seungyoun said everyone was meeting for meat and drinks today. You wanna join?”

She looked to be thinking, probably thinking of her schedule.

“Sure. i'm in. i haven't seen him and the guys in a long while too!” she agreed and he smiled. He was already imagining telling a cocky Seungyoun that not only he apologised but she also agreed for the night out - he couldn't wait to see the look on his best friend's face.

“And Wooseok..” her voice brought him out of his thoughts. “Next time you wanna grab dinner, tell me. If not a day before then at least an hour before. I'll clear my schedule for you.” she said with a smile and his heart skipped a beat. This was the Bora he fell in love with all those years ago.

~

She entered the Barbeque place and the smell hanging in the air reminded her of Highschool and University - when times were better she thought. Once inside, she made her way to the table with the loudest voices and found her friends- Wooseok and Seungwoo were the only silent and smiling ones at the table - the other three were the creators of the noise - Hangyul, Yohan and Seungyoun who all looked halfway drunk. She was only half an hour late from the decided time though.

She took a seat between Seungwoo and Wooseok as Seungyoun passed her a glass of beer.

“I literally just got here.”

“And you have to compensate for the half hour you’re late for.” Seungyoun cheekily said as he passed her a shot of Soju which she happily took. Seungwoo passed her a plate of snacks and she thanked him softly.

An hour passed with drinks and talks and taunts to Bora for not meeting the others more. But it was all good and Wooseok was slightly tipsy and Seungyoun was trying to sober him surprisingly. It was just that Seungyoun had a good alcohol tolerance and Wooseok did not. And drunk Wooseok is clingy as the hand wrapped around her waist and head leaning on her shoulder was reminding her. It was vaguely reminding her of how close they used to be before and suddenly the alcohol in her system felt too much and the restaurant felt suffocating. 

She suddenly stood up, Wooseok almost falling on the seat as he was leaning on her and she asked Seungwoo to move, mumbling about needing fresh air. She really needed some.

She was standing outside as the cold air blew and saw the time. A little over 11 pm, none of them will even consider going home before 1 and she sighed. She tugged out her pack of cigarettes and a lighter as she lit one. She wasn't an avid smoker - only smoking occasionally when stressed and the friendly dinner with old friends was leading into dangerous territories - from highschool memories to her and Wooseok almost dating to their sudden engagement. It was frustrating since she knew the reason behind all his attention on her now - he wanted to marry her.

“Fancy seeing you here.” she heard someone speak behind her and turned around to see a smiling Junhee coming to stand beside her. She wanted to scowl at his smiling face but also apologise for never texting him again. She hadn't been able to sleep much last night because she kept thinking about what Junhee had said.

“I didn't know you smoke.” he commented as she took a drag of it and let the smoke out.

“I don't usually. But a tough day makes me want to take one.” she said as she took another drag and Junhee turned around to leave.

“Wait, where are you going?” she asked as he looked behind at her, face unreadable.

“I can't stand the smoke.” he said as he turned and started walking towards the alleyway beside the restaurant. She looked at the cigarette in her hand. Cursing lowly, she threw it on the ground and stomped it with her heels as she walked after him.

“Wait for me!”

~

After making sure Wooseok was sober enough to not fall, Seungyoun got up to follow behind Bora. He had felt her getting uncomfortable by minute as they kept talking about her and Wooseok and he wanted to make sure she was fine. And also maybe not to be so disgusted by the fact that she was engaged to Wooseok now.

He walked out to see a man standing beside her and paused a little behind, making sure to hide himself but also hear what they were talking about.

“I didn't know you smoke.” the man commented and Seungyoun was surprised that he actually knew her.

“I don't usually. But a tough day makes me want to take one.” he felt guilty when she said that. Was she that uncomfortable with the idea of marrying Wooseok? Isn't she the same person who would blush whenever Wooseok said anything directly to her and literally told him in the morning that she would clear any schedule for him?

“Wait, where are you going?” he heard say and looked up to see the man turning to walk towards the side alleyway.

“I can't stand the smoke.” he said simply and Seungyoun sighed. It brought back memories of the many times anyone had ever told her to not smoke.

It started during University. A huge fight between Wooseok and her that no one ever found the reason for and she went out alone at night. Seungyoun had found himself opening the door of his apartment to a drunk Bora at 4 in the morning smelling strongly of alcohol and smoke.

Since then, she had smoked on multiple occasions followed by someone telling her not to and her retoriting with something.

“You should not smoke.” Seungwoo had told her and she had just shrugged in response, choosing to not smoke in his presence out of respect but not listening.

“The smoke bothers me.” Wooseok had complained once. With a cigarette between her lips, she walked to the door of the apartment and opened it for him saying, “feel free to leave.”

“Smoking kills you eventually.” Aerin had said.

“So does life at one point.” Bora had retorted.

“Can you stop smoking?” he had followed after Aerin who was snuggled in his arms.

“Shut up.” was the crude response he got as she laughed and he joined, taking the cigarette from her hand to take a drag himself.

So maybe he was not the best person but she also has never listened. So when Seungyoun saw her throwing the cigarette down and running after the guy, something dropped in his stomach.

He went back in and joined the others. 

“Where is she?” Wooseok asked and Seungyoun shrugged.

“Did not see her. Maybe she went in the side alley to smoke.” he said, not willing to put doubts in the head of a drunk Wooseok. But sober Wooseok has to know. She came about 20 minutes after Seungyoun had come back and the smile and the slight flush of her cheeks were bothering him a bit too much. So he decided he’ll give him some sort of warning at least.

That's Why Wooseok woke up the next day with a killer headache and a text awaiting on his phone from Seungyoun saying, ‘You should have a serious talk with Bora about the engagement.’

[hjh-ceilo-monster]

Aftertaste : Strawberry and Cigarrete (KSJ)

Summary : You were a daycare volunteer who saved his precious child. Without knowing, you made yourself into a no harm list. You can’t step out of that list. Not because of your appearance, but your scent. A sweet scent that bring out his desire.

Author POV.

You were a happy soul walking along the street alone like always.Working as a volunteer could be exhausted sometimes.But you loved it as along as they are kids. You were a volunteer in a daycare.You worked there as a part time job since it paid well.Desperated for money because you were poor as hell.

Yeah ended about your background and continued this story. Where were we? Oh , walking along the street.Baggy shirt and a legging with glasses hanged around your nose bridge, you carried a grocery bags toward the daycare.

Today was one of the kids birthday. You decided to throw a little birthday party for her.Your day was smooth sailing so far or so you thought.You was humming the song when the car horn abruptly appeared. The kid was in the middle of that road.

“Watch out!” You dropped everything and saved him. The owner of that car got out and shouted at you with frustration,but not today. 

“Be careful next time idiot! Are you trying to murder this poor child? What a dickhead you are.” You actually screamed back toward him.Seeing the phone in his hand was enough evidence for that. He was careless himself.You helped the poor soul and start walk away only to heard him cried.

"Noona is my hero."His spirit has been lift up by an ice cream in his hand. You bought it for him.Both of you arrived the day care. You introduced him to the kids in your class. They were having fun with the party.

Time skip

"Y/N ah someone want to meet you." Your coworker entered the room. Talking about the man who waited outside for the kid you brought here.

"Thank you for your kindness ma'am."The two guards took the kid away.

‘Rich kid isn't he?’ Little do you know that day of saving a boy changed your life forever.On the other hand,after the kid arrived his house.His father/the boss/the king of crime/the alpha scolded at his guards.

"Appa you should see noona. She is a hero and pretty."And his son didn't stop talking about you for the whole week.

Week later : present time

You are in the daycare like always. Teaching the kids about clock and how to read the time.Then you get a call from someone.

'Miss we would like to meet up...'

Here you are.In the coffee house for someone to meet you.Can you trust that person,you don't know. You don't even know why you accept their request to meet up with you in the first place.The same guards from last week arrives with the boy.He run from them and cling his body onto your leg.

"Noona my Appa want to meet you." Oh shit,did I get myself into a trap or trouble.Arriving the house full of men in black isn't something you expect.

"Take a sit first,our boss will come down soon." 

What makes it less tension is this boy on your lap still talking with you. He becomes a good distraction.He brings his plushy and throw it in my lap.Insisting that it’s soft and you should play with it.

“Appa!” You expect his father to look like an old man who is around his late fourty.You eyes follow the boy presenc until it reach a young man.Holy crap, what a young gorgous face.‘Is this his father?’You scream in your head.

“Well I would like to thank you about the incedent last week.”

2 days after you find yourself standing in front of the same huge mansion.You aren’t sure why you accept the deal.Is it because of that stack of money or his handsome face that you get lure by it.

“Welcome again miss y/n.”The guard smile and open the door for you.The other one has already pick up your luggages.All of sudden you become a personal nanny for his son and also the tutor as well.

‘Well you see,he has a little problem when he attend the school...’ You still remember what he told last time about his son.You make sure to note every details about him.

“Noona...my noona is here!”The boy runs toward you from the other side of the room just to cling himself on your leg.You wonder why he loves your leg so much.

“Hi little boy,you already know about me being your nanny right?”He nods.

“Well then,would you like to introduce youself a bit,dear?”

“My name is Kim Hansu.You are miss Y/N,my noona.”You chuckle with what he says.

Y/N POV.

Taking care of Hansu was an easy task.He was well behave for a while week. When I start my lesson,he would put full attention to me and study hard.I swear if I have a child,he will be a model from that boy/girl of mine.

“So what is 4+2 again?”

“6!″ He answers.He is a bright kid.I always need to find something more difficult to ask since he catch up really well.

“Good boy,now free time.”He smiles and suddenly climbs up my lap.He burry himself in my chest while playing his toys.I decide to write a little report for his father.

“Hansu-ah want anything for lunch?”I ask him,but no answer.I glance down into my lap.Seeing the boy sleep peacefully,I decide to make him a sandwich.I gently lay him on the sofa and live the room.

“Umm well,can I umm use the kitchen please?”I ask one of the guard outside the house.They look confuse,but nod.I don’t know who to ask since mr.Kim must be at his work place and to use kitchen in someone house without permission seems to be rude.

I finish the sandwich and go out to check on Hansu.He is still asleep.I then continue to write the report and his schedule for the next lessons.Finishing everything,I send the report into mr.Kim email.

“Time to wake him up.”

Jin POV.

It has been a week that Y/N enter my house.I didn’t get to see her and Hansu much since the work in the company was really hectic.I am reading the report that she gives to me right now.To my surprise,she works better than I expect.

“Sir the meeting in the afternoon has been cancled.Mr.Choi has to attend his business abroad.”My secretary come in and report the schedule.This is the time I can go home early.I am excited to see my boy.

“Boss you are early today.”The guard greet me while I walk inside my house.I ask them to report what happened today.The story they tell me make me surprise.

“So she asks you guys whether she could use the kitchen?”I ask again to make sure that what I hear was right.They all nod.I chuckle and take them by surprise.

“What a peculiar girl.”I mumble and enter the living room.The sight of my son munching up the sandwich while laugh along Y/N story is the first thing greeting me.This is beautiful,he’s cute.Well she’s also cute with that smile,her laugh is gorgous and her scent..

Wait?

What just happened to me? I never think anything like this toward any girl before.Also why my wolf try to pick her scent right now?After I have Hansu,I actually shut my wolf scent when it comes to mate.How the hell it alert now?

‘Listen to me idiot!’He speaks.It’s been a long time since I speak to my wolf.

‘I hate that you shut me like that.Also stop ignore me.This is important dude.’ I try to ignore him and go pass the living room to the kitchen.When I walk pass them,I scent something sweet.It’s really sweet that I can feel it taste in my mouth.Is this strawberry?I didn’t eat them before I come here so how?

‘I say listen to me!’This time that guy shout with angry voice.I startle a bit and decide to listen to him.‘What is it? Speak before I shut you again.’If he stand next to me,he will roll his eyes and sigh.

‘You see that girl there?’He speaks.

‘Which girl?You mean Y/N?’I ask back.

‘She’s the only one in your house so who else.Well I’ll be quick since you don’t really like me talk to you that much.’

‘You know yourself.’

‘Shut it.The thing is believe me or not she’s our mate.’Wait what?Is this guy that horny.I know I didn’t have relationship or even a quick sex as a relief,but it was only like 2 months.

‘Are you kidding?She is not our mate dude.That’s Hansu nanny.’

‘No she is.’

‘Is not.’I start bicker with him inside my head.He is going to make my head explode soon.

‘Explain to me why we scent that strawberry thing and feel like it’s in our mouth every time when you passed by her?’The question get me off guard.I also wonder why as well.My mind blank and everything turn silence inside my head.

‘See?That’s my point.I won’t argue with you anymore,but beware.Anyone can claim her before you did.If that happen,I’ll control you for the rest of your life.’With that he disapper.

Author POV.

During the dinner,it is more akward than usual.Jin take a glance at y/n a few times while he eats.Y/N doesn’t catch his stare,but she feels it.She decides to avoid.Thinking that maybe it’s her mind plays with her.

“Appa you were early today.”Hansu speak while munch up his steak.It is his favourit menu so Jin request the maid to do it three times a week.

“My schedule get cancel so I get to see my boy today.”He reply with his gentle voice.That side make y/n surprise and feel the warmness from him.She never see it before and witness this now make her heart skip a beat.

‘What a wonderful father.’She thinks and continue to eat.When she finish,she picks up her plate and Hansu.Walking into the kitchen,she wash them.The maid quickly enter the room and stop her.

“Miss no need to,It’s our job anyway.”

“No it’s fine.At least you cook for me and that must be tired.”

“It’s our job m-”

“But usually you cook for two at most,now you have three.Let me help you so this will clean quicker and we both can depart to rest up.”Y/N continue to wash the dishes.The maid sigh in defeat and join.

All of the that isn’t out of Jin sight.He watches the scene by the door.Leaning his body to the door frame and continue to watch will be up next.He doesn’t notice that his face lit up with the smile all the time.

“Appa I want you to tell the story today.”Hansu shake the tip of his shirt.You and maids turn their face toward the voice.Seeing Jin make you glance down to the floor.He pick the boy up and carry him out.

“I think he likes you.”The maid who dry the dish up speak witha smile.Making you eyes widen with shock until red blush color her face.She chuckle and leave the room.

“Boss never hire nanny.No matter how Hansu beg him to do it or even his friends beg him.You must be special that he decide to accept what Hansu want.”

“It’s nothing really.I just save the boy from car accident.”You reply.The maid smile brighter than before.When everything done,she walk out and leave you a sentence to think.

“You are special miss.If not he wouldn’t care of your action at all.”

Her words leave you think all night.Were you that special? You couldn’t believe that a person like you would be that ‘important’ to him just because you save his son.It is something that a decent human would do,isn’t it?

Days by days,you feel something out of ordinary.The feeling growing in your chest isn’t suppose to happen like this.Not when you are a nanny and he is your boss,the father of this boy.

However,can you deny the fact that you fall for him? You can’t,but you try.You try your best to behave normal so does Jin.That guy also face and fight his feeling as well; even though,his wolf told him you were his mate.

May be because of your presence in this house for a long time,your scent change.The scent is a mix of strawberry and cigarrete from those guards and himself.He doesn’t know why that make him addict to your scent even more.

Today you ask Jin’s permission to take Hansu out of the house.He agrees without a second thought.Well that guy trusts you so much.It’s to the point that he let his 2 loyal guards become your personal guards.

“Hansu want an ice scream.”He speaks with bubbly voice.You can’t defeat this boy order.Not when he put that cute face and beg.You walk toward the ice scream shop and order it.

“You guys want some?”You ask the guards.They walk silently behind the two of you the whole time.You think that must be a tiring job.Following around people.

“We’re good ma’am.”

“You look tire though.At least we can take a rest here and you can order a drink for yourself.”They don’t know what to reply,but don’t want to refuse your kindness either.

At first it’s akward.The guards won’t speak anything.It takes time for them to warm up and start talking with you.You don’t like to treat them like a workers.Let them feel like they’re with a friend at least with you.

“Excuse me guys,I’ll go to the rest room.You can stay here.”You stand up and leave the table.Hansu want to follow you,but you tell him to stay with the guards.

All the way to the rest room,you feel like someone follow you.You step inside the rest room.After you finish,you walk out.However,someone push you back in. Gripping on your neck tightly as if they want to tangle you.

You move desperately in his grip.When you can free yourself,you stomp toward his feet and decide to run.Arriving inside the shop,you pay the bill and leave the mall as soon as possible.

“Hansu want to stay.”

“Let’s come next time.”

“But I want to..pwease?”Oh that baby voice.You decide to take him to the park. Remember there is a place for him to drain his energy.

Time skip

“He fall asleep in the class.”One of the staff hand him toward me.I grip onto his body and carry him in my arms.One of the guard try to reach out for his body to help me.I tell him it’ll wake him up anyway if I’m not the one who hold him.

“You were such a great mother.”With her words,I blush. 

“Well I’m just his nanny.”

“Then he must love you so much.He can’t stop talking about you.”She smiles. Finally I bid her a good bye and we all go back to the mansion.

Seokjin is cooking the meal today since he wants to surprise his son.He didn’t cook for awhile so his skill might be rusty.Hansu always love his meal.He prepare the dish and everything.

You without knowing enter the living room.Your foot step alert Jin that both of you’re back.Jin come out to greet both of you.When he arrives,your eyes widen. Seeing him in something which isn’t a suite make your heart burt with flame.He is indeed charming.You think of it and start blushing.

“Y/N are you okay?Do you have fever?”He walks closer to you.You step back until your thigh hit the sofa.He gently put his hand toward your forehead.Staring at you.His face keep coming closer and closer.

“Appa..you’re back?”Hansu voice interupt you both.Jin pull himself back and walk to Hansu.Picking his son up,he tell his son what is waiting for him.

Hansu eyes lit up with excitement.The meal goes on smoothly.Hansu tell his day to his father.You like always report Hansu bahavior.Jin nod along before sontinue his meal.

“Also you can call me Jin if you want.”

“Is that okay for you?”

“Of course,you’re my son teacher and a friend of mine anyway.”

You feel delight yet upset at the same time.‘What did you expect him to say y/n?’ You scold yourself in your head.When he calls you friend at least that should make you happe.Why are you sitting here upset?

“You don’t need to wash the dish.”

“It won’t be fair if you work only,will it?”You continue to clean the dish.Scrubbing then until it shine,you wash the bubble out with tap water.Jin notice something around your neck.A red mark strech around your skin.

“Who hurt you?”The question make you startle.

“N..no on..one”You stutter.He step closer until there’s no gaps between you both. Trace his hand down the line.His touch dance around your skin.Giving you an electric shock.

“I hate liar so don’t do it and answer.”He whisper.This time with his deep husky voice.It impact leave your body shake.Your breathe get caught up in the throat.

Without warning,you feel something like a plush touch your lips.Eyes glance down to see his lips on yours.Your eyes widen.He doesn’t seem to flinch and continue to taste your lips.You eyes then slowly close and lips chase the rythm of the kiss.

“Strawberry...” He mumbles.

He start trailing down from the lips to your jaw line.Moving smoothly down the skin of yours which flushing red.When he arrive your neck line,he keeps sucking on the same spot.

“We should stop.”The sense in you suddenly kick in.You push him with the best strength you have.You are panting and face blushing with crimson red.He doesn’t look different.You both glance up and meet each other eyes.

“I’m sorry..y/n.”He speaks like he regrets it.Apart of him want to claim you so bad while the other part pull him back.He shouldn’t be like this.He shouldn’t throw himself on you.

After the incident,you both let a week passed without talking to each other.Jin start burried himself with the work at the company.Hansu seems upset that his father didn’t have time for him again.

For you,you try your best to focus on Hansu.Taking care of him and teaching him well.You know why Jin acting like this.To be honest,you didn’t dare to face him either.

“Hansu-ah I’ll be in the kitchen for a moment.”You tell a little boy who is working on his exercise that you give.You walk through the door into the kitchen.Picking a glass of water then leave.

“Hansu did you finish your work?”

“Yes noona,I fi-”He didn’t finish his sentence when all of sudden a gun shot throught window.You quickly rush to the boy and pick him up.

“Are any of you outside.Please come and help!”You scream.Two guards enter the house with the guns in there hand.Pointiing to the window.

“Please take care of him,I’ll inform Seokjin.”You hand a boy toward one of them. Hansu cry out with fear.

“We’ll protect you.Be a good boy ok?”You rush to the phone around the the TV.You pick it up and call Seokjin immediately.

“Who is calling?”It must be his secretary,you think.

“Please I need Seokjin right now.I’m his nanny.”The line then reach to Jin in no time.You explain what happen.Hansu sobbing voice can be hear ieven though it is a fade noise.

“I’ll be there.”The line end and you check Hansu.The guard hand him and you calm him down.Waiting for Seokjin to present in the house.

The sound of the engine alert you that he arrives.The door brek apart,bangin to the wall.Jin waltz into the living room.Seeing Hansu cry in your arms,he reaches out for his son.

“Shhh appa is here...it’s ok now.”He calm his son whose sob get quieter.

Jin look around the room which turn into a mess.Glasses shatter everywhere. Bullet holes presents here and there.He wants to scream at his guards so bad,but he keep his temper.The fear of Hansu break down again stop him.

“I will talk to you both later.Leave.”

His guards shiver from his command.The voice of Alpha with that amber eyes making them obey without hesitation.You look at Jin.Noticing his shining amber eyes.You want to ask what’s wrong, but you afraid it will make him mad.You then look at Hansu and then ask the boy.

“Are you alright dear?”Asking with your voice soft like an angel while petting his head.He nod and you can feel the vibration of his head.

“Good boy.Big boy doesn’t cry remember.”You try to cheer him up.

Again you glance at Seokjin.His breathe hitch while stare back at you.He doesn’t sure whether it’s his temper or your face this close to him that make his breathe irregular.

“You have something to tell me right?”You ask.Don’t dare to push his button.

“I think it’s the time for you to know.”He sigh.His eyes turn into a regret one. Showing you how upset and embarrase he is right now.

Both of you walk into his bedroom.He close the door and lay his son down onto the soft matress.You sit on it beside him.When he sit down,he makes sure he leave some space between you and him.He doesn’t want you to be scare.

“Well you see that scene downstairs.Also I already tell the reason I didn’t bring Hansu to a normal school.”You nod along his sentences.

“Actually I have a more specific reasons for that.”You look at his serious feature. 

“And is it relate to what happened awhile ago?”

“Yes indeed.”He glance down to the floor.He doesn’t know how to tell this story. However,you need to know.You just got into this mess minutes ago because of him.You deserve a right to know.

“We aren’t a normal citizen and you could see from the first time.Huge mansion along with guards and maids might be normal to rich family.Perhaps we aren’t only an ordinary ‘rich’ family.”He stops.He feel the hesitaion for the next thing he says.

As if you can sens his feeling,you reach your hands to him.Softly caress his to make him calm down.An electric spark through his body so does your.You both try to ignore it.

“I won’t judge you if that is going to make thing easy for you to tell me.”H look at you again.Searching your eyes to see you tell a truth or lie.

“We’re a mafia.”Your heart stop for a moment.The shiver run down your spine and he senses it.His wolf also howl in agony.Preparing you to leave this place without mating you.

“A..mafia?Like a mobster with cliche dealing,killing and...”

“Yes but we aren’t that low.We have rules and we didn’t like to put innocent people in danger just like those.”He explain how his worlds work and all.You try to keep up with the new information you just get from him.

“And like I say we aren’t normal.I mean it.”

“And how you guys aren’t ‘normal’?”

Hansu was playing in the playground.It was around the noon and all the kids got their free time.

The boy was playing by himself.Sitting on the swing,he played alone like always. He was a quiet boy and didn’t feel good to be around a lot of people.The other kids found his behaviour weird so they didn’t like him.

He got tease and bullied everyday.That day was the last day he could put up with it.

“Leave we don’t want you to play around here.”

“A weirdo like you deserve no one to play with.”He sighed and left.He didn’t want to have problem with anyone.However,one of the kids picked his last straw.

“How sad, no friend and what else....no mother?”Jin get called to the school by the principal in the middle of his meeting.

He came to pick Hansu up.They informed that his beloved son got in a fight.When he arrived,he witnessed his boy fangs.Blood dripped down from the side of his mouth.That day,Hansu bit his classmate arm.

Jin found out that Hansu had problem with the kids in school and he couldn’t control his wolf yet.The anger would make his wolf took over and acted out. Hansu begged him to quit the school and Jin did it.

Afterward he assigned a tutor or took Hansu to the darecare.Sometimes the maids and guards  in his house would take care of the boy for him.His friends would come to play with the boy if they had time.

“Thank you for save him.I appriciate it.He can’t stop talking about you after that incident.It seems like he already bond to you.Wolf bond tend to be a strong one especially for him who have no parrents since the beginning.”

“But you are his parent,aren’t you?”You ask.

“No he is my god son.I just take care of him for the sake of my dead twin brother.”He asnwer with honesty.Your heart break with this sad cliche story.This man in the dark world he live,he still take care of a pure boy to grow like good kid af of he’s an angel.

“I understand if you want to leave.I’ll take care of your salary and all.I will need you to have body guards for awhile unti I clear this mess.After that you can be free all you want.”

Jin speak with an upset tone.He knows he doesn’t want you to leave.He wants you to stay.Despite his feeling,he can’t force you.It’s your life so it’s your choice to decide whether to leave or stay.

You on the other hand have a fight in your head.One side tell you to leave while the other tell you to stay.You can’t decide this filling that mixing up in your chest. You feel numbness crept all over your body.

“Appa...Appa...”Hansu rubs his eyes.He slowly awake from his sleep after tireness from crying.

Seeing the boy fragile body wrap around his father.Seeing how naive he was, how this boy grow up into an innocent child in this kind of environment.you come up with your decision.

“I will stay.”

Your decision that day really make Jin shed in tears.After listening to his story and go through things that rough,he has no hope for your presence to be still by his side.

He makes sure to protect both of you.For you,your life is normal.After incident nothing bad happen yet.You can enjoy your time with Hansu.Feeling a little sad when you need to quit the daycare,but you visit there sometimes.

The guards always stick around you and Hansu.Jin order them too.However,you want them to not feel akward as well as Hansu.You talk to them casually like friends and let them get to know Hansu.They turn into basically another babysitters who help you.

“Hansu want to go to toilet.”A little boy shake the hem of your shirt.You let him go with one of the guard.He beg to sit on the guard neck.

You with another guard,walking inside the store.It’s nearly Jin birthday and you want to surprise him.You don’t really know what to pick,but you follow Hansu opinion.The guard also help you for that.

Twenty minutes pass and none of them come back.You start getting worry. Getting the gift inside the bag,you with the guard immediately leave.The guard then get into the restroom to check.

“Hey are you okay?”With that voice,you bang into the men restroom.There are no one inside,lucky.

“I’m sorry...*cough..ma’am.”He coughs out blood.Your face drain all color.You all get in the car.Taking him to the mansion.

“You can’t go alone.”

“No you guys need to stay here.I think I need to inform the police.”

“But master will be mad.He doesn’t like police to...*cough*”The guys still cough out.You wonder what he has got to become in this state.

“I call Jin.Can we think of anyway to find Hansu?”You try your best to stay calm. You need to think wise and being panic isn’t going to help.

You let the other guards work on tracking Hansu.Yourself hop onto the cars and drives to Jin company.One the other hand,he is in the middle of dealing.You call him before arrive the face,but he didn’t answer.

“God damn,pick it up Jin...please.”You feel like crying right now.Everything hits you. ‘No focus.’ You keep that in your head.

Running into the building is the first thing your instinc tell when you arrive.You can’t even wait for the elevator so you run up the stair case.Reaching his dealing,you knock on the door.

“I hope you reconsider the deal.Thank you for coming today,Mr.Cha.”Jin bow to the elder.The screen then fade black.When he open the door,your face appear which make him startle.

“Why are you here?What happen with you?”He asks worriedly.

“Hansu..he got...huh...kidnap.”He brings you inside the room.Locking the door, you start explaining everything.

“Hello...my old friend,how are you doing?”The screen turn on all of sudden.Jin face turn into an ager one while his fold his hand into a fist.Knuckles turn white like no blood running.

“What with that face...I thought you want to see your boy?”

The man step aside and reveal Hansu.His heart shattered into pieces when he sees his boy tied up with the chair.Blood running down the little guy head.He is unconsious.

“Remember my deal and you can get the boy,48 hourse from now...”With that,the screen fade black again.

48 hours or he won’t see Hansu,no more.

“Anything yet?”You ask the team.You really want to reach for the police.Thinking again,you can’t do that since it’ll be a risk for Jin not only a threat for that guy.

“Do you remember the face of that guy who give you a wolf bane?”You ask.

“Yes ma’am,he was..around this and with the mask cover his face.His eyes glow like red with a tatto on his neck...”He tries to remember the picture of that day.

Jin is in his room,talking to no one.He blames himself for everything.He is frustrate with everything.Staring at the grey painted wall with the clock that ticking make him feel sick.His head is mess up and washing his face didn’t help.

36 hours left

Searching and searching,there is no clue where is Hansu.No one in the house dare to sleep.Not when the boss is growl in anger inside the house.You decide to go and check him.You drag your lifeless body with two feets of yours and approach his room.Getting closer and closer,you can hear his voice.How it’s agony and tired.

Entering the room through wooden door,you see a mess.Everything has been wreck by a man who is now sitting on his bed.Two hands graps tightly on his head.The fresh red stream run down his muscular arms.

“Jin...Seokjin...”You look at him with fear.Instantaneously,you pick the kit up and start applying his wound.Cuts and bruises are all over the place.

“You shouldn’t..”

“No this is my fault..mine.”He speaks with a tired voice.It will crack up and cry any time.Everything in the room turn into silence mode and get more and more tense.

“I swear to my brother to protect him with my life.I’m an idiot,a loser.”Hitting his point,he cry out.

The man can’t bear this stress and fear anymore.Not when his little boy,his pup,is in danger and shit like that.The phone ring.Jin is going to throw it when you stop.You decide to pick up the call and answer the caller.Opening the speaker.

“Hyung you finally pick up.”

“Uhhh who is this?”

“You’re not hyung?Eh..this voice,are you Y/N?”

“Yes..”When you try to ask him,he cut off.

“Great,can you please get this call to him.Nice to meet you by the way,I am Jungkook.”Hope lit up in Jin mind,his eyes shine once again.

“Jungkook-ah....I need your help.”

24 hours left

“I will find my little buddy,don’t worry and stay calm hyung.”Jungkook assure his brother before working on the screen.

The guards know who he was.Seeing his presence make them feel relieve. Jungkook is alliance of Jin and he’s good with hacking.That’s all you know. Other things,you are goinf to find out now.

“That son of a bitch seriously put a high fence.Aye those two,insert the code I give you.”The guards beside him follow his instrustion.

“Did Hansu wear the watch?”Jungkook ask out of the blue.

“Uhuh he always.”You answer.

“Then that’s great.”He smile like a maniac while typing a lot of alian language into the computer.He looks like a psycho,you won’t lie.Regardless,he’s our only hope right now.

“What’s with this guy an his stupid deal....wanna get our groups.I’ll tell this to Namjoon hyung once I leave here.”He still types the mass numbers and letters on the computer.Coming to the last line,the click sound appear in thin air.

“Ready to get your boy?”

6 hours left

“Uhhh can I call the police, at least for support?” You ask them. Everything in the van is silent. No one speak. Jungkook has a laptop on his lap while the guards listen to order. 

“Things is going to get messy and we don’t want to drag those men to mess it up even more. Also, we have our guests on the way.” Jungkook sentences make you frown. Wondering who are they. However, seeing Jin face with a little relieve, you sense that they are going to be good helpers. 

“I thought you will abandon this annoying kid.” Hearing the voice, your memory of that day kick in.

“You! That idiot man.” Everyone shock after you outburst and point at the guy who kidnapped Hansu.

“And you are that brave girl. My plan would have completed if you hadn’t saved the boy.”

“What’s going on here?” Jin whisper toward you. You immediately explain him. His blood boiling even more after you finish the story.

“And also, where’s our deal, Mr. Seokjinssi?” Jin grit his teeth. Jungkook is on the van with some guards. He insists to not get inside, but he will handle other things.

“500,000,000 Million dollars, enough for you?” Jin approach the guy with a thick suitcase. The guy open and see stacks of money. His eyes glow up, but immediately become dull.

“But I want your gang, I think it worth more than these money.” 

“Get Hansu to us first.” You speak. You don’t really know where does the braveness come from, but you want Hansu to be back in your arm. The footsteps then aproach you and Jin.

The little boy finally in front of you guys; however, He was beaten up. Cuts and bruises are al over his body. The poor boy is nearly unconscious, while those guys drag him into this place.

Jin can’t control himself anymore and start punching the man. The fight start and other members enter in. Both Jin members and that guy’s members fight in the warehouse. You find a chance to pick up Hansu.

Gun sound appear in the air and everywhere gets bloody. You only see this as a chance to get Hansu, so you find a way until you reach the biy and pick him up. However, something is behind you nape. A cold mental touch harshly and leave the sting. Making you fall from your feet.

“Y/N!!!” He triess to reach you, but he can’t. Now you are on the floor with the gun in front of your face. Hearing the click sound, you tighten your embrace toward Hansu.

“Hansu, noona love you.” The boy sense something bad is going to happen and he cries. 

“You son of a bitch!” 

You feel nothing. The sound disappear. You open your eyes to see Jin in front of you. His eyes change into bright amber, fangs come out of his mouth and claws appear from his hand.The sight of his state should make you feel scare yet you feel nothing like that. You feel safe and sigh out with relieve.

“Do you want to control this gang that much?” He turns around and see the face of that man full with fear. You look around and see the states of his members. They are the same as their boss.

“Leave here.” He speaks and give you to one of his guard. 

Jin POV. 

After Y/N and Hansu get outside with my guard. The fight begins again. However, this time everything become messier. I slash, bite and snap every single being that is in my way; even though, their men keep flooding inside.

*splash*

All of sudden, those men die. The sight of their body disect and randomly goes to different corner of the room make everyone stop. Blood stream down from the wall and some trickle down from the roof.

Dark magenta eyes appear from afar along with the navy blue eyes. I know who are those people. Thinking of them, I sigh out with relieve. I need to thank Jungkook later then.

“You need to thank me later, I was having a good nap at home.” A voice appear.

“I see my lovely god son and I’m really not happy about it. Who did it hyung?”

“Quit asking and help me.” I demand and the figures appear from the shadow. Yoongi and Taehyung approach me with their guns and bombs. 

Their body are covering with blood. Yoongi carry a wooden box. I’m wondering for awhile until he approach the ‘boss’ of this group. Gripping his neck up from the floor, the man whimper. 

“I’ll leave....I will...”

“Useless, answer me, who hire you to follow him?” Yoongi ask.

“And I want an honest answer. You want to just disappear from here after what you have made, right?” Taehyung play with his knives. That guy can be a psycho sometimes. To be honest, all of us are.

“I..can’t...he...”

“Enough with the talk then. Sleep well.” Yoongi chop of his head after Taehyung finish speaking. 

His members look at the scene with the horror face. They all try to run for their lives. However, every side of the warehouse close down by someone. The sound of panting and groaning in pain are echoing inside. 

This is the end of them.

Author POV.

Let say everything finally end. Hansu is safe so does Y/N. Jungkook contacted Taehyung that day. Luckily, Yoongi was also with him; discussing about new work from Namjoon.

The others knew about Hansu in no time and after a week, they all visit Hansu. Namjoon and Hoseok made sure the news wouldn’t reach police. Jimin with Taehyung played with Hansu all the time. The little boy recovered from trauma quicker than the doctor expect.

“So hyung, I heard you found your mate?” Hoseok ask Jin.

“Of course hyung, she is beautiful and brave. However, poor her, she needs to deal with this old man.” Jungkook tease.

“Well when you ready send me the card. I’ll make sure I’m free to go to your wedding.” Jimin lit his cigarrete.

“I need to be the best man though.” Jin roll his eyes after Taehyung sentence. He sighs and just shut them up by changing the topic. Sadly, the topic begins again when you step into the scene.

“We are ba... oh, I’m so sorry.” You walk into the room with Hansu in your embrace. Jin walk toward you two and take Hansu from your embarce. Everyone there watch their biggest brother have a sweat moment with his future wife.

“Ahem..Ahem... Hyung, we are here.” Hoseok and Jimin clear their throat on purpose. You immediately look down.

“You guys make the girl startle.” Yoongi, who usually don’t join the tease, speak.

“Aish stop before I kick you guys out.” Jin reply with irritated voice.

“Not try to be disrespectful, but I’m still your boss.” Namjoon claim and walk toward you. He starts introducing himself and everyone in the room. The chat last long for awhile before everyone seperate. Bidding each other a goodbye.

“Now it’s our time.” Jin backhug you and kiss your cheek. Your cheek start blushing. Your body feel hot all of sudden. Jin do nothing, but chuckle with your reaction.

“Ready to eat?” He whisper.

“Jinssi...you...” You flush even more and hit his arm. He laugh and then speak again.

“What do you think? I mean the dinner. Hansu is going to be down here soon.”

‘It’s the time you idiot!’ The wolf scream in Jin’s head. Jin sigh and tell him to shut up.

‘This is the time bro. Before the kiddo wake up.’

“You look...so serious. What’s up?” You ask.

“Uhhh the thing is...you are my...mate.” You give him a puzzled look. Trying to understand what’s the meaning behind that.

“What is it? What are you trying to tell me?” You ask again, but Jin only sigh. He doesn’t know how to explain it.

‘Maybe it’s not the time yet.’

‘Explain idiot, before I take control.’ His wolf growl in his head. Making Jin feel dizzy.

“Huh it’s...I....” A voice interrupt him.

“Noona...please be my mom. Appa just ask you to be my mom. You are his other half and I want you to be my mom.”

“Hansu...” You are now speechless.

‘Great you just et the kid ask her instead of you. What a coward.’

‘Shut it, at least it will help her to easily accept us.’ Jin talk back to his wolf.

“Please, accept me.” Jin beg you this time. His voice is soft yet showing how desperate he wants you. 

“If noona don’t accept, I’ll cry.” 

Hansu eyes start welling up with tears. Gosh, you feel like you have been attack by these two. However, you can’t deny your feeling especially after everything that happen. You really love Hansu like your real son. You can sacrifice anything to keep this boy happy. And, you’ve already accept Jin. 

“Hansu...call me eomma from now alright.” Hansu look at you with his eyes widen. Suddenly, the boy runs to you and you lift him up. 

“Eomma, I love you.” The boy hug you tight. Burrying his face into your neck. Jin also doesn’t waste his time and hug you. Turning you around, his lips connect with yours. Both you savor the moment for awhile until Hansu voice appear again.

“Appa I’m hungry....” Jin seperate from you and take Hansu with him. You chuckle and follow both of them into the kitchen. 

Helping a mafia child seems to not bad huh

Hi every bypasser, I’m back. Finally I got my blog back. I hope you enjoy this one. I rush through this fic before my ideas disappear so I’m so sorry if you spot lots of mistakes. Thank you.

[javierpenaspinkshirt]

Dear Diary

Javi x Diarist - One Shot

Warnings: brief mention of some NSFW activities, mentions of tight jeans, some Carrillo thirst because I’m only human.

Words: 2.7k.

Summary: writing in her diary, the Diarist documents her first few weeks at her new job and her first encounters of Javi.

Day one - Monday

Dear Diary,

Today was the first day of my new job! Mom said I should keep a diary so I can look back when I’ve been in the job awhile and see how much I’ve progressed. To be honest with you, Diary, I feel a bit daft writing in you… but hey ho! Maybe you’ll be fun to look back on?

Anyway! Today was the first day of my new life in Bogotá! I’m a secretary for the DEA at the American Embassy in the city – the building is a bit posh! The university isn’t too far away so I can easily get to my evening classes (studying History with Spanish) and even though I’m classed as a ‘mature’ student (mature! HAH!) I’m hoping I’ll make friends both at class and at work… maybe someone with a car so they can drive me, teehee!

It’s a group of five girls working as secretaries for the DEA. We have a good age range and I sit sort of in the middle of the group age-wise I think. They’re all really lovely, there’s two other Americans and two Colombians so a cool culture mix. Hopefully they all like me!

I didn’t do much work today, just shadowing the others and walking round to meet everyone. The agents all seem to keep to themselves. There’s two Americans down the hall from my desk – I didn’t catch their names (whoops) but apparently they’re the two I’ll spend the most time working with. I should introduce myself properly tomorrow.

I’m looking forward to my first Tuesday on the job!

Day two - Tuesday

Dear Diary,

Today was day two. It was good, there’s a lot of information to learn and it’s especially difficult to flick between English and Spanish in my brain… But I guess I’m new to all this and I’ll get the hang of it! One of the other secretaries – Erica – has promised to speak to me mostly in Spanish so I can get into the habit of speaking like a local, I thought that was sweet of her!

But that wasn’t the most interesting thing to happen today, Diary, oh no no! Today I met Javier and Steve. They’re the two Americans I’ll be working for mostly. Steve is nice, barely speaks any Spanish which I can tell frustrates him and Javier, but just like me he’ll get there! I think I might end up his interpreter… but he seems kind and he is really into the job! He’s got a wife and they haven’t lived in Bogotá all that long either so we have that in common! Well… the being new here… not the wife bit(!)

And then there’s Javier, who all the other secretaries call Javi… so I guess I will too. I can tell he’s going to be trouble. He came up to my desk after lunch just to tell me that he liked my blouse and that the color suited me! I have to admit he is very handsome… But he strikes me as the ‘would ruin your life for a shag’ type? That might be harsh and he does seem nice. The others all say he’s lovely and is a man you can depend on but he is a dreadful flirt!

I wish I’d had something smart to say back to him as he stood in front of my desk telling me he liked my blouse but honestly, Diary, I think I just whimpered?? I was so taken aback by it! If there’s a next time I’ll have to be smarter!

Day 3 - Wednesday

Dear Diary,

This morning Javi bought me a coffee and brought it to my desk. He actually apologised for trying to flirt with me yesterday! He was very sweet actually. He said he wanted to make sure we got off on the right foot so wanted to apologise if he made me uncomfortable! I told him he didn’t I was just surprised he would even notice me! He was very sweet and said something like ‘I’d have to be blind not to notice you’… wait was he flirting with me again??

Diary, I am going to have to get better at this!

Day 4 - Thursday

Dear Diary,

I think we have a situation. I think I might have a teeny little crush on Javi. I mean, I am certainly not the only one! All the girls seem to melt slightly when he talks to them… Except Coleen actually… somehow she’s immune to his charms… Maybe she’ll teach me?

I caught myself actually waiting for him to come over to me today because I was looking forward to chatting to him. He always seems to make time to chat to us all and sees us as actual people… a lot more than most of the other staff.

He does wear some insanely tight jeans though. It's like it's 1985 and he thinks he's Axl Rose! But Javi does look good in them... like really good… Oh dear… I think I fancy a government agent. Who have I become??

Day 5 - Friday

Dear Diary,

That was my first week! Done and dusted! I think it was good! Everyone has been so kind and supportive and Erica has even invited me out for drinks tomorrow night with some of her friends! I cant wait!

School is going well too, I had my first classes this week and I think I’m going to be okay! The subject material isn’t going to be easy, but we like a challenge don’t we, Diary?

Now back to the important stuff – Javi’s outfit of the day. I was sat at my desk making some phone calls when Javi walks passed in a pair of those damn jeans and a red shirt. He caught my eye as he walked passed and gave me a smile and – I shit you not – my brain kicked in to gear and I said:

‘Nice shirt, the colour suits you’ and I was so cool and casual with a little smirk on my face, Diary I have never played anything so cool in my life. I got a chuckle from him and a wink and I swear down I would have taken my panties off right then and there.

Diary, my mom can never read you.

Day 6 - Saturday

Dear Diary,

It’s pretty late as a write this but that’s because I’ve been out with Erica and her friends! A couple of the other girls from work joined us as well so it was a lot of fun! We just went to a bar and had a few drinks and a giggle.

Erica did tell me she noticed me “making eyes” at Javi in the week though and I must’ve turned as red as the strawberry daiquiri I was drinking because she laughed at me. She told me he is, to quote her, ‘a bit of a slut’ and that most of the girls in the city know him in the biblical sense... I don’t think that put me off? I mean it’s the 80’s, do we still shame people for having sex? And to be fair, here I am making heart eyes at a man I’ve known for a matter of days. So no, Diary, I don’t judge him for that.

But I also don’t think I’m going to pursue him? I’m certainly not looking for a boyfriend. Although as I write this down I kind of figure he’s not after a commitment either? I mean I don’t know him that well but what kind of man shamelessly flirts with the new secretary on her first day if he isn’t looking for some fun? Maybe that’s what I’m looking for?

Diary, no more daiquiris for me!

Day 7 – Sunday

Dear Diary,

I went shopping today. Not the boring food type of shopping, clothes shopping! It was a lot of fun actually! I got to explore the city a bit and although it has a reputation (and my mom would kill me if she knew) I actually felt fine walking around on my own! I was in the busy shopping streets mind and it was daylight, but I really think this city could feel like home!

I bought a couple of pairs of jeans because mine are old and raggedy and I got some new shirts and tops for work, but the buy of the day – a pencil skirt that makes my butt look like I’ve done a 100 squats a day since the day I was born. I mean, not to blow my own horn, but I look GOOD in it!

I’m going to wear it to work one day… And yes Diary, I know I might be playing with fire, but a little fun never hurt anyone?

Day 8 - Monday

Dear Diary,

I wore the skirt.

Oh my! The girls all gave me compliments on my ass and legs (which lets be honest is better than any compliment from any man!) so that was great!

I’ll be honest though, by the end of the day I wanted to rip it off myself… I had severely underestimated how difficult sitting in a pencil skirt for 8 hours would be. Lesson learned!

I did see Javi though. He didn’t say anything but I was stood up as he walked passed and his eyes were stuck on me for so long Steve had to practically drag him up the stairs. Diary, I was very pleased with myself!

Day 9 - Tuesday

Dear Diary,

I don’t know what it is about the American Embassy but somehow the building attracts the most beautiful men.

Today, Diary, I met Colonel Horacio Carrillo and believe me I have never seen such a MAN! He must be 90% shoulder and 10% snark because Diary he is built like a wall and has a mouth sharp enough to even shut up Javier Peña! Not that I was listening in, I was collecting some papers in their office as the Colonel was talking to Javi and Steve.

Steve introduced me to the Colonel and he shook my hand (Diary, his hand was the SIZE OF MY HEAD)… he was wearing a wedding ring though. I’m no home wrecker… but my god is he beautiful!

I did catch Javi’s eye before I left their office though and I’m sure I’m not making it up when I say there was a flash of jealousy. I thought I was being crazy and arrogant to think that but no, I’m sure! The Colonel was very polite to me, very courteous, and were he not a married man I would have wished I was wearing my new skirt again. Diary, I can not stress enough the thickness of this man’s arms.

Anyway, despite definitely having the hots for the Colonel, I think I’d still rather go out with Javi. If we put the whole Carrillo-is-married thing aside, I just think Javi is more my kind of guy? Up for a laugh, not too serious, likes a drink and likes a smoke... very pretty!

I think we’d have a lot of fun if we went out. I’m beginning to wonder if he thinks the same?

Day 10 - Wednesday

Dear Diary,

Today the five of us girls went out for lunch. It was great! They showed me their favourite café, great for people watching but far enough from the embassy that we weren’t just looking at officials in suits! Great food too, I really do love this city!

I was sat with Coleen at lunch and she told me Javi had caught her after I’d left work for class and asked her about me. Apparently he asked if I was single!! Coleen told him she didn’t know because she didn’t want to drop me in it if I wasn’t interested in him (bless you, Coleen!) but I definitely am interested! Diary, when she told me he’d asked about me my heart raced! Like I’m some kind of school girl!

I really do like him and I’d like to get to know him better. But I think I’ll give it some more time maybe?

Day 11 - Thursday

Dear Diary,

I spent the whole day look at Javier Peña and his black fucking shirt. Oh my god, Diary! I am in too deep. He walked passed my desk while I was on the phone today and I stopped listening completely so I could concentrate on his butt.

It is becoming a problem.

So I have resolved to do something about it. I have decided that I’m going to ask him out for a drink tomorrow night after work. Fingers crossed for me!

Day 12 - Friday

Dear Diary,

Well… it’s sort of actually Saturday… I didn’t have time to write in you yesterday, Diary because… well because I didn’t come home last night (!)

Let me explain the events of last night:

When I got to work yesterday morning Javi was sat at my desk. He was wearing that damn leather jacket that, for no reason at all other than its his, I find incredibly sexy and was waiting for me. He said good morning to me then got up to let me sit down.

He watched me as I took stuff out of my bag and settled in before, seemingly out of nowhere, he asked me if I wanted to go for a drink with him after work!

Diary, I was so uncool. I was like one of those nodding dogs people have in their car or on their desk.

He laughed and said he’d come by my desk to get me when we were done. I spent the entire day obsessing about whether it was a date or just a friendly drink? Erica was sure it was a date, so sure in fact she made me borrow her red lipstick and made me promise to wear it.

I did wear it. And was I glad I did!

He complimented me on it when he came by my desk to get me. As we left the building he put his arm out for me and we linked arms and walked down the street and Diary it was the easiest, loveliest conversation I’ve ever had! He made me feel so at ease straight away, it was sort of like I’d known him for ages?

We actually ended up at the same bar I’d been to the weekend before… so I was back on the daiquiris!

We talked for ages, right up until closing but it was still like there was so much more to say! When we eventually got turfed out of the bar we ended up walking the streets, arm in arm again, laughing and chatting. Diary, it was lovely!

Turns out he only lives a few blocks away from my place but his is closer to the bar. We stopped at his door and he invited me up. I’ll be honest, I hesitated… but I was wearing his leather jacket (he’d let me wear it for the walk home) and he’d been such a gentleman, well I couldn’t resist the smile on his face!

So I ended up sat on his sofa as he told me about work and fixed me a whiskey… I don’t know what possessed me but when he came over to give me my glass I stood up and kissed him!

Diary, you know me, I’ve never been particularly forward! I blame those daiquiris… but oh no, it didn’t end at a kiss.

Before I knew it we were pulling each other's clothes off (I didn't even mind that he ripped one of my new tops)! I don't know if it's because he's well practised or he's just one of those guys that knows what he's doing... but lord did he know what he was doing!

Before I knew it he had me on my back on his sofa, screaming his name and Diary… well what can I say… I’ve had to write this all down quickly because I’ve just come home to shower and get a change of clothes before he comes to pick me up. That’s right, we’re going out again tonight!!

Diary, don’t wait up!

[mamabearcatfanfics]

And Baby Makes Three

This is the first chapter of my new NaLu family slice of life serial - Welcome to Fatherhood.  Can’t promise regular updates, but whenever I wanna write Modern AU Natsu and Lucy family oneshots, it’ll end up here.  Expect sweetness and fluff, occasional family angst, but mostly just happy times with Natsu and Lucy and the newest member of the Dragneel family. Enjoy!

If you’ve read The Not So Good Very Bad Day and think you’ve seen it all before, keep reading - I promise there’s more. Mentions of pregnancy and labour.

💕💗💕

"Hey Luce, I got that garlic bread that you wanted", called out Natsu, pushing the front door to their apartment shut behind him. He walked into the kitchen with the grocery bags, plonking them onto the bench next to the sink. It looked like Lucy had already made a start on dinner; a rich bolognese sauce was simmering on the stove, and the spaghetti was bubbling in a pot of salted water. He turned on the oven and put the foil wrapped garlic bread in; dinner looked like it would be ready any minute.

"Luce?" called out Natsu, wondering where his wife had got to. He had his answer a few seconds later as he heard the toilet flush, and he grinned, realising he should have known where she would be. Lucy's constant visits to the bathroom now that she was eight and a half months pregnant were a running joke between them, one that she was getting mightily tired of.

Natsu put the groceries away while he waited for Lucy to appear, then peered down the hallway with a little trepidation, wondering which Lucy would greet him tonight. Over the last two weeks, her mood swings were getting a little… extreme. Not that he was complaining too much. At least he wasn't the one that was going to have to push a baby out anytime soon. Nevertheless, he smiled in relief when Lucy looked happy to see him, although she also looked exhausted.

Her long golden locks were shoved into a messy bun, and she was already changed into her pj's even though it was only early in the evening – a stretched black singlet top that used to be his and a pair of boxers with the waistband pushed down below her baby bump. One more day of work, and she'd be on maternity leave, and then only two weeks until Lucy's official due date.

He watched lovingly as Lucy waddled down the hallway towards him, one arm rubbing on the small of her back. He'd learned very early on not to say the word 'waddled' but really, now that her baby bump was so large, there was no other word for the way she walked. He found it endearing; Lucy, not so much.

She stood on tiptoe to give him a squeezy hug, well, the best approximation she could with her baby bump in the way. "I'm so glad to see you", she sighed, leaning her head on his shoulder. Guessing it was probably aching again, Natsu rubbed her lower back in firm circles with his thumbs, and she groaned in relief, making him chuckle. He kissed the top of her head in greeting.

"Did something bad happen at work today?" he asked with concern, continuing to knead her sore muscles. Damn, they were tight - almost rock hard!

"Not really", Lucy said. "I'm just so tired Natsu. The lift broke down and I had to walk down three flights of stairs for a meeting, and then back up again. At least it was fixed by the time I left to go home."

She gave him a small affectionate peck on the lips and walked slowly over to the stove, hand resting on her lower back again. "Why don't you go wash up while I organise this. Should only be a minute or two before its ready."

Natsu wandered down the hallway of their small apartment to the bathroom, quickly washing and drying his hands. As he walked back past what used to be the spare bedroom, he couldn't help but stop to lean on the door frame to gaze around the room in wonder, like he did every time he walked past this door since they'd finally finished decorating last weekend. Even though he had attended every ultrasound, read all the 'dad' chapters in Lucy's pregnancy books and attended every information class at the hospital, decorating this room… this is what made fatherhood begin to feel real for him.

The once beige walls were painted a pale yellow, and cheerful yellow gingham curtains decorated the window. A white chest of drawers was filled with little baby onesies and singlets, and a blue pram was pushed into the corner. Cloth nappies were stacked on the wooden change table, sharing the space with creams and baby wipes. A plastic baby bath was stored underneath, a bright yellow rubber duck sitting proudly in its centre.

They had created a mural on one of the blank walls. He had painted a friendly red dragon flying in a night sky, which Lucy had filled with silver stars and a smiling moon. Leaning up against the wall near the doorway was a big cardboard box that contained the pieces of a wooden cradle. That was his job for this weekend; to put it together and set it up in their bedroom, ready to be used by their son or daughter when they brought him or her home. Natsu ran his hand over the edge of the box, picturing Lucy rocking a tiny sleeping baby in the cradle, and he couldn't help his joyful grin. He couldn't wait.

A sudden squeal and crash had Natsu sprinting back to the kitchen. Lucy was sitting on her knees on the kitchen floor sobbing, with the upturned pasta pot and water spilled over the floor. He dragged her backwards away from the spreading water and helped her sit down on one of the kitchen chairs, examining her anxiously.

"Fuck Luce, are you okay? Did you burn yourself?" He turned her hands over, checking for burns, patting her pyjamas to see if they were wet anywhere, and then stooped down to check her legs and bare feet. When he couldn't find any injuries, he cupped Lucy's face in his hands, trying to wipe away her tears with his thumbs as they continued to fall. "Tell me, what's wrong babe? You're worrying me!"

Lucy's face contorted as she tried to get words out through her sobs. "Can't do anything right", she finally managed, trying to get a hold of her emotions. "So stupid… and clumsy… dropped the pot… fell out of my hands."

"Hey", Natsu crooned, still stroking her face. "It's just pasta Luce, it's not worth all these tears. I can just make more. Please don't cry." He put his arms around her shoulders and rocked back and forth, and Lucy buried her face in his shoulder, still crying. When her sobs started to calm down, Natsu pulled back a little so he could reach the box of tissues on the table. He dried her eyes and handed her another tissue, so she could blow her nose.

While Lucy sat on the chair, gradually becoming calmer, he began to clean up. Not wanting to risk her slipping on the wet floor, he stripped off his black t-shirt, and mopped up the water, wringing it into the sink, then scooped up all the cooked spaghetti in his hands and put it into the bin. He decided Lucy probably needed to eat sooner rather than later, so after putting the empty pot in the sink and turning off the oven and stove, he served the chunky mince bolognese sauce into two bowls, adding a few hunks of garlic bread and a fork to each. He carried them into the lounge room and placed them on the coffee table and came back for his girl.

"Do you wanna tell me what's really wrong Luce?" he asked, helping her get to her feet. She leaned on him as they walked into the lounge room, still sniffling. Natsu sat down on the sofa, stretched out length ways, and helped Lucy sit down so she was cradled in between his legs, her back resting against his bare chest. He reached out and started rubbing her stomach in circles, kissing the top of her head. "Tell me, baby girl, I can't help if I don't know what's going on."

Lucy sighed, still hiccuping a little. "I'm sorry I cried like that. Nothings really wrong", she said. "Just a lot of little somethings that all built up I guess, that turned it into a bad day. It started when I got dressed for work this morning. My feet were all swollen and none of my shoes fit. I had to wear my slippers to work."

Natsu tried very hard not to, but a small snort of laughter escaped. Lucy tapped him on the arm. "Fine", she grumbled, "you can laugh, everyone one else at work did too." That stopped his laughter, and he began rubbing small circles again, kissing the top of her head gently in apology.

"What else happened Luce?"

"Well, I already told you that the lift was out. I had to walk downstairs for a meeting, and when I got there, I realised that the folder I needed was still on my desk, and I had to walk all the way up there again and back down, and then I was late." Natsu murmured sympathetically.

"Then because I was late, by the time I had lunch they'd run out of all the sandwiches I like in the café downstairs. All they had left was curried egg, but I was so hungry I bought it and it gave me horrible heartburn all afternoon. And I've had these stupid Braxton Hicks contractions all damn day. But that wasn't the worst part." Natsu hugged her tighter, racking his brain for comforting phrases to say after Lucy revealed what might have made her so upset.

"I was talking to the new sales manager about who he'd need to contact for that big conference next month, when Levy popped in with the twins to say hi to everyone who hadn't got to see them when she was in hospital." Although Lucy smiled at the thought of Levy and her three-month old twins, Natsu sensed that she was about to reveal something that had really upset her.

"They weren't even in my office, they were out in the tea room. I was trying to wrap up the meeting so that I could go see them when Jonah started crying. Crying really loudly." Lucy covered her face with her hands.

"Hey, c'mon, it can't be that bad…" began Natsu.

"My boobs leaked Natsu! I was wearing a white shirt, and my boobs leaked! The front of my shirt was covered in two big wet patches. And Jason just kept staring at them. He didn't look away and I didn't know what to do! I was so embarrassed! So I pretended I had another meeting and went and hid in the bathroom for half an hour. I had to rinse out my shirt and dry it under the hand dryer."

Natsu gently pulled Lucy's hands away from her face, squeezing her fingers. "Creepy bastard", growled Natsu. "I mean, I guess he was surprised, but staring at you when it's somethin' that you can't help - that's just wrong! Remind me to punch him for ya if I see him at the office Christmas party."

Lucy giggled, but it was a worn-out tired giggle. "I'm so sorry Natsu. I know at the moment I'm not always the nicest person to be around, but I'm just so exhausted. I can't sleep properly because I can't get comfy, and when I finally do, I have to get up to go to the toilet, or these stupid Braxton Hicks contractions start up again. I keep forgetting stuff and dropping things. I don't even know what my feet look like anymore."

While she was talking, Natsu kept on rubbing her stomach. He drew up her singlet top, so it revealed the pale skin stretched tight over her bump, and the darker line that ran down the centre of her stomach. He traced his finger around her belly button. Previously it had been a cute little dimple that he could poke his finger in and get the reward of immediate Lucy giggles because she was very ticklish there, but was now it was stretched flat with the pressure of their baby behind it.

Her body amazed him. The fact that there was a whole other person in there was beyond incredible. The baby wasn't kicking so much anymore, because the midwife had informed them that he or she had pretty much run out of stretching room, but every now and then Lucy's stomach would move, and Natsu's hand would reach out to rub and press on her skin where the baby was. When she had finished speaking, he dropped a loving kiss to the top of her head.

"Luce, you know what I think? I think today was your last day at work. It was a shitty day, and I don't think you need to go back there tomorrow. I think tomorrow we're both gonna call in sick, and I'm gonna pamper my princess while I still can, before we're both too busy running around after a newborn for stuff like that. What do ya say?"

"Natsu, that sounds so tempting, but…"

"But nothin. I'll even call the midwives at the hospital to see if we can get a medical certificate for ya to mail to them. You've already done all the hand over stuff Luce. I'll call Gajeel tonight and let him know – all the appointments we have booked in for tomorrow are smaller tattoos, he can handle it."

Lucy sighed. "Okay". Suddenly she felt like a huge weight had been lifted off her shoulders. She placed her hands over his on her belly, and they both smiled as the baby bumped a small knee, or perhaps an elbow, into their joined hands.

"Thank you Natsu", she sniffed, feeling a little teary again, but in a good way. "I don't know what I'd do without you." Natsu kissed the top of her head again, and then laughed as Lucy's stomach growled loudly.

"Right back at ya, baby girl." He helped Lucy sit upright on the sofa and reached over to the coffee table for a bowl of Bolognese and garlic bread with a fork stuck in the middle of it. "Here ya go madame, fine dining at its very best."

Lucy began to shovel in forkfuls of the savoury mince into her mouth, suddenly realising how hungry she was. "So Natsu, what sort of pampering were you thinking of?"

"Well, I thought I could give you a foot massage and paint your toenails for you", began Natsu, stuffing a piece of garlic bread in his mouth. "Maybe we could watch a movie together on the sofa." His green eyes took on a greedy glint. "If you were feeling up to it, perhaps I could give you a 'Natsu Special' massage, with all the trimmings." He waggled his eyebrows at her teasingly.

Lucy grinned at him. "Is that massage for you, or for me?"

"Both of us", winked Natsu, leaning across to give her a loving kiss, which became two kisses, then three. Lucy moaned softly into his mouth and opened her lips, ready to return his kisses, but then couldn't stifle a yawn.

"Sorry!" she squeaked. Natsu chuckled, placing one last gentle kiss on her lips before drawing back.

"But tonight princess, it's off to bed early for you. I got lots of pampering I wanna do to you, and I can't do it if you're too tired to stay awake."

He bent down to kiss her belly too. "No bedtime stories tonight kiddo, your Mama needs her rest. And listen up, stop treatin' her so rough. She's the only one you got, so you gotta take care of her. Try not to tap-dance on her bladder tonight, so she can get a good night's sleep, okay?" He kissed her stomach one more time, then got to his feet, holding his hands out to Lucy. "Bedtime Luce."

Lucy grumbled, but Natsu helped her to her feet, and gently pushed her down the hallway to their bedroom. He grabbed the extra pillows, and after she got herself settled on her side, he stuffed one between her knees, and the special wedged one under her bump. He knelt down next to the bed to gently stroke her forehead as she yawned again.

As her eyes drifted closed, he realised that their nights like this, with just the two of them here in their home would be coming to an end in just a few weeks, maybe even just a few days. It both excited and terrified him.

He stood for a few moments, watching Lucy sleep, her hands curled protectively over her rounded belly filled with their child, then quietly pulled the door closed so she wouldn't be disturbed.

💕💗💕

"Natsu?" Lucy's voice was soft in his ear, but her voice sounded a little strained.

"Wassup Lucy?" he asked blearily, blinking his eyes against the bright light streaming into the bedroom from the hallway. Did he forget to turn that off? His eyes flicked to the digital clock on their bedside table – 3am. He'd stayed up for a few hours playing Team Fortress 2 with Gray and Gajeel, then gone to bed around midnight, snuggling in next to his wife, already planning their day together in his head. But she wasn't lying next to him now.

Lucy was leaning over the bed, her hands resting on the mattress while her hips rocked from side to side. She was panting and a small moan of pain slipped past her clenched teeth.

"Shit. This is it huh?" He rolled out of bed quickly, trying to push down his feelings of panic. He had to be calm. He was Lucy's support person for her labour, and he needed to stay calm. He pushed Lucy's sweaty bangs out of her face. "What do you need Luce?"

"My back", she groaned through clenched teeth, and he moved behind her, pushing his thumbs in hard circles above the base of her spine.

"Helpin' or hurtin'?" he asked, trying very hard to keep the anxious tone out of his voice.

"Helping", she whimpered, and he gritted his teeth. He'd known Lucy would be in pain during labour, of course he'd known that, but now that he was faced with possibly hours of her hurting, he didn't know what to do with all these feelings. Guilt, excitement, anxiety… he pushed those thoughts aside and concentrated on trying to assist his wife through the pain of her contraction.

Lucy gave an exhausted sigh. "It's finished." She straightened up awkwardly, and Natsu pulled her into a hug.

"How long has this been goin' on?"

"A while", she said, not looking him in the eye.

"Luuucyyy - what does 'a while' mean?"

"Well, you know how I said those Braxton Hicks contractions had been bothering me all day? I worked out that maybe, they were actually the real thing. I woke up two hours ago when they started getting hard to sleep through, but you looked so peaceful, so I didn't want to wake you up."

"Lucy!" Natsu groaned.

"Well", she pouted, crossing her arms, "I figured at least one of us should be sleeping - who knows how long this is gonna take! I just wanted to let you sleep until I couldn't handle it on my own."

Natsu tugged on a bit of loose hair that had fallen out of her messy bun, then kissed her pouting lips. "So stubborn. What am I gonna do with you, huh?"

She grinned at him. "You're gonna help me pack the hospital bag, because I haven't done it yet. Can you get the list?"

Natsu rolled his eyes a little at yet another list, but jogged into the kitchen to get it off the fridge. Lucy had always been a list maker extraordinaire, even in high school when he'd first met her. She was always organised, and hated being late for anything, where he was the exact opposite. He grinned. Looks like the baby was going to take after her mother in that regard.

He wandered back into the bedroom, list in his hand. "Hey Luce, looks like the baby… oh, shit." Lucy was standing in the middle of the room with a mortified look on her face. There was was liquid pooling around her feet.

"Uh, Natsu?"

He dropped the list on the bed and took her hands in his. "Okay. It's okay babe."

"Natsu, my water broke", Lucy said in a shocked voice, stating the obvious.

"Uh huh. Here's what we're gonna do. I'm gonna help you into the shower, and you're gonna get clean, and I'll pack the bag, and then we'll head off to the birthing centre. Sounds like a plan, yeah?"

"Yeah, okay." Lucy grimaced as she stepped forwards, more fluids dribbling down her leg. "This is so gross. I'm so sorry Natsu, the carpet…"

"Who cares? We'll just put a rug there or somethin' if it stains. You okay to walk?"

"Yeah… no wait, stop, here comes another one." Lucy panted and leaned against Natsu as he glanced at the bedroom clock for the time, then rubbed his thumbs into her back again, counting in his head.

"Keep breathin' Lucy. That's my girl. You got this. You're so fuckin' awesome. I love you so much, baby." He kissed her sweaty forehead, wishing he could take some of her pain away. "All done?"

Lucy nodded, still leaning against him.

"Let's get you in the shower and then I'm gonna call the birthing centre to let 'em know we're comin' in soon, cause that contraction lasted sixty seconds, more or less." He helped Lucy across the hallway, chuckling at her disgust as he peeled her wet boxers and underpants down her legs. "Don't worry about it, Luce", he grinned, turning on the water in the shower nice and hot, like she liked it.

"You don't think it's gross?" she asked softly.

"Nah. That time I watched you eat potato chips and ice-cream was much grosser than this", he teased, helping her out of her singlet top. "I'm gonna go pack stuff. You gonna be okay here for a few minutes?"

Lucy launched herself at him and hugged him tightly. "I love you so much Natsu, I really really do."

Natsu rubbed her back, burying his nose in her hair. It still smelled like strawberry shampoo, and he took a moment to breathe it in, helping him calm down a little. Everything was moving so fast. "I love you too, Luce. You ready for team Dragneel to kick some baby makin' ass?"

Lucy giggled. "You know it. Go get that bag ready while I get clean. Do you think you could get me that old pink t-shirt dress I wear on the weekends? And some underpants and um", she blushed a little, "a maternity pad, in case I leak some more - they should be in the top drawer I think."

"Aye Sir!"

He sprinted back to their bedroom to stuff things in Lucy's backpack. Based on the last contraction, he guessed he had about five minutes before he needed to get back to her. Clothes for Lucy, baby outfit for coming home, baby blanket, nappies. He glanced through the list again, trying to judge what would be most important, and what he could get for her later. What the fuck Lucy? Scented candles? That was definitely on the 'not now' list.

"Naaatsuuuu!"

Fuck. That was four minutes - they were getting closer together. He sprinted back across the hallway. Lucy was leaning against the tiles, tapping her forehead hard against them as she swayed, whimpering.

"Luce, you're gonna hurt yourself!" He climbed into the shower with her, turning her so her head was resting on his shoulder and the hot water was aimed at her back. He murmured softly into her hair, stroking her arms. "You're doin' so good babe, I'm so proud of you." He counted in his head again, up to sixty.

Lucy sighed against him. "That one really hurt." Natsu pulled back from her, pushing her fringe out of the way to inspect the red mark on her forehead.

"What were ya tryin' to do, give yourself concussion? Jeez Luce!" Lucy touched her forehead gingerly.

"I don't really know what that was about. I didn't realise I was doing it until you made me stop." Natsu turned off the water and wrapped a towel around Lucy's shoulders, shucking off his wet boxers and grabbing a towel for himself.

"Okay, let's hustle. That was four minutes. So let's get you dressed in those four minutes, and then we'll wait the contraction out, and then get in the car. I've packed most of the stuff, and anything I haven't I can come back for later okay?"

Lucy nodded, trying to hurry, drying herself while Natsu grabbed her clothes, helping her into her underpants while she put her head through the t-shirt dress. Natsu wasn't sure he'd got the pad exactly right, but it was in there. Lucy pushed her arms in the sleeves, and Natsu grabbed his phone, opening up the timer app. He was just dragging on his own clothes when Lucy clutched at his t-shirt.

He tapped the timer on his phone to start counting the seconds. "There we go, you can do this. Deep breaths Lucy." Natsu was starting to panic a little now. The birthing centre was a good twenty minute drive away. What if Lucy had the baby in the car? Fuck. He rubbed her back, trying to take deep breaths himself to calm down.

Natsu grabbed the backpack while Lucy shuffled her feet into her slippers. He grinned at her, and she whacked him on the arm. "Shut. Up. They're the only ones that fit."

Natsu snorted. "I didn't say a thing", he grinned, getting ready to pull their front door behind him. "Let's see have we got everything? Keys, wallet, backpack, Lucy, baby. All good." He pulled the door shut, then punched his fist into the air. "Alright! Operation 'and Baby Dragneel Makes Three' ready to commence!"

Lucy snorted. "Shush you dork! It's the middle of the night, you'll wake everyone up!"

"Lovable dork", Natsu corrected, taking her hand to help her down the flight of stairs to the garage underneath the apartment block.

Lucy kissed him on the cheek. "My lovable dork", she said softly, and Natsu gifted her with a smile so wide, his eyes crinkled up so they were barely visible.

"Damn straight I am."

💕💗💕

Natsu gritted his teeth, one hand on the steering wheel, the other gripping Lucy's tightly as she moaned in the front seat next to him. They were still about ten minutes away from the birthing centre. He could just hear Wendy's voice on speaker over Lucy's moans of pain.

"That's it Lucy, you should be nearly through it now", she said, her voice calm. "Keep breathing."

Lucy sighed as the contraction eased off. "It's finished. But it hurt so much worse sitting still in the car seat."

Natsu glanced at her, then back at the road. "I'm sorry Lucy. We're nearly there babe."

"I'll let reception know, and have your records ready to admit you", said Wendy cheerfully. "See you soon!" She ended the call, and Natsu wondered how anyone could sound that cheerful at nearly 4am in the morning. But he was glad it was Wendy who was on call tonight. They'd got used to her during their regular appointments and it would be good to see a friendly face.

"Nearly there", he repeated, glancing anxiously at Lucy.

"Eyes on the road Natsu!" exclaimed Lucy, squeezing his hand.

"Sorry." His eyes darted to her, and back to the road again. "I just… I wish I could help more."

Lucy stroked his fingers. "You are helping. I couldn't do this without you." She pulled his fingers to her lips and kissed them gently. "Before I woke you up, when the pain started getting worse, I was beginning to get frightened, working myself up. As soon as you were there beside me, I wasn't frightened anymore. I'm never scared when you're with me."

Natsu's throat thickened and the backs of his eyes burned. He quickly blinked away the moisture beginning to wash into his eyes. "I'm glad. There isn't anythin' I wouldn't do for you Lucy, you know that don't ya?" He took advantage of the empty streets, and risked going a little faster, hoping if he did get a ticket he could plead his case of 'pregnant wife in active labour'. He let go of Lucy's hand momentarily so he could turn the corner. "Two more blocks Lucy. Nearly there."

Lucy whimpered in her seat, gripping the upholstery tightly as another contraction took hold. "Hnnnn. Natsu, it hurts", she panted, hunching over in her seat.

"Dammit. Fuck this." Natsu put his foot to the floor and they sped through the empty intersection against a red light, and they arrived at the driveway of the birthing centre, adjacent to the hospital. Natsu leapt out of the front seat and opened Lucy's door helping her upright so she could rock against him through the worst of the contraction.

"My hero", she whispered teasingly as it finally ebbed away. "But I'm not paying your speeding fine for you if you get one."

"As I said, anythin' for you milady", grinned Natsu, sketching his approximation of a courtly bow. "Oh look Princess, your carriage awaits." Lucy swatted him on the arm as Wendy helped her into a waiting wheelchair.

"Go and park the car you dork!"

"That's lovable dork, Lucy! Get it right, why don't ya!"

After parking the car quickly he jogged back into the birthing centre, backpack bouncing a little . The lady at reception smiled at him.

"First time Dad?" Natsu nodded, his eyes a little panicked.

"Can you tell me which room they've taken Lucy Dragneel to please?"

"Sure I can, right after you've filled in these forms", she said cheerfully, holding out a clipboard and pen. Natsu sighed audibly, but quickly filled in the information to the best of his ability, hoping the woman would be able to read his chicken scratch writing, because he couldn't be bothered to make it look neat. The receptionist glanced over the form, then grinned. "Room 12, second left. Good luck!"

Lucy was on her hands and knees on the bed when Natsu poked his head in the door. Wendy's head peeked out from behind her. "Come in Natsu!" She flicked off the rubber gloves on her hand. "9 cm dilated, 100% effacement. If you do end up with a speeding ticket, I can write them a medical certificate letting them know your wife was about to have a baby in your car."

"Natsu, another one", Lucy gasped, and Natsu was quick to cross to her side. "This isn't fair. I just had one. I don't like it, make it stop!"

"Not long now", Wendy grinned. "I'd say two or three more and you'll be ready to push this baby out Lucy."

Lucy whimpered as Natsu stroked her back firmly. She rested her head on Natsu's shoulder once the contraction had passed. "But I had a plan!" she protested in a tired petulant voice. "There was meant to be soft music, and candles, and a bath!"

Natsu snorted. "I was gonna say back at the apartment that our baby was obviously gonna take after you, because it's gettin' here early", he grinned, "but not goin' with the plan? That definitely sounds more like me!" Lucy smiled tiredly, then moaned. "Another one? You got this Lucy. Show those contractions who's boss."

Lucy moaned, pushing her head hard into Natsu's shoulder. "I can't", she whispered brokenly, her body trembling. "Can't do it. Hurts too much Natsu."

Natsu gritted his teeth, his jaw bunching. He stroked Lucy's sweaty bangs away from her forehead, looking into her pain filled eyes. "Yes you can. There's no one stronger than you Lucy. C'mon sweetheart, Wendy said you're nearly there. I love you so much, and I am so proud of you. You got this." He draped Lucy's arms around his neck, running his hands down her back. She panted as another contraction began as soon as the previous one had ended. Wendy twitched up Lucy's t-shirt dress, squatting down to take a look, then feeling with her fingers.

"Ten centimeters! Well done Lucy! When you feel the next contraction, if you feel the urge to push, you go right ahead. Let your body do what it needs to do."

Lucy clutched her arms around Natsu's neck like a lifeline, her forehead pushed into his neck, moaning as she pushed with each new contraction. Natsu kept up his whispers in her ear, telling her how strong she was, how amazing, how much he loved her. Suddenly Lucy hissed in pain, and Natsu's eyes flew to Wendy, who smiled at him, nodding her head to ease his fears.

"It's okay. I know that hurts Lucy, but that's the baby's head crowning. Nearly there."

"Did you hear that Lucy! You're so close to being done. You're so close to meeting our baby." Natsu kissed her sweaty forehead, as Lucy moaned tiredly against his neck, then braced herself as another contraction hit, panting and whimpering. "That's it, that's my girl."

"Head's out Lucy, just the shoulders to go."

Natsu watched Lucy in awe as she grit her teeth and pushed again, her eyes squeezed shut in total concentration.

"Well done! Congratulations, Natsu and Lucy, you have a daughter."

A reedy whimpering cry filled the room, then gained strength. The baby sounded extremely upset about suddenly being out in the big bright world, and Natsu and Lucy laughed together as Wendy scooped the baby up towards them, Lucy turning to lean against Natsu so their little girl could come to rest up on her chest. Apart from squalling indignantly, she was tiny, and pink and perfect. Wendy produced a small striped blanket to drape over the baby's back to keep her warm.

"Oh my baby", Lucy whispered. "I am so happy to finally meet you." All the pain of labour was forgotten in an instant as she placed her hands gently over the baby's back, and Natsu placed his hands over hers. A sniffing sound made her look upwards. "Oh Natsu."

Tears were pouring down Natsu's cheeks. "I'm sorry", he said roughly. "I don't know why I'm cryin'; I'm so happy! I guess, you were in so much pain, and I was so worried, and now she's finally here!" He sniffed again and Wendy handed him a tissue which he used to scrub away the tears roughly. "You were fuckin' awesome Lucy. I'll never forget this day, not as long as I live. You made me a Dad." He breathed out a deep sigh, then stroked his finger gently over his daughter's wet curls, which looked like they might be blonde.

"Welcome to the world, Layla Dragneel."

[thor-tony]

Consider this: Thor/Tony high school pining idiots AU

The Avengers are in their senior year and part of student government which includes a senate committee. Their positions are as follows: Rhodey- Presiding Officer; Pepper - Treasurer; Bruce - Secretary; Sam - Senator of Discipline; Thor - of Athletics; Nat - of PR; Tony - of Student Life, Clint - of Service, Steve - of Academics)

The committee members are all good friends with each other but they also have their own close-knit group of friends outside of the committee that they moan to about their crushes

Thor and Steve are also in the football team (duh)

Tony likes to watch them practice after AP Physics and likes dragging Rhodey with him. He always claims that he’s just there to support Happy as well as his friends from student gov. Rhodey knows better and teases him and urges him to stop acting like some teenage girl in an anime watching senpai practices on the side hoping senpai would notice him. 

Tony doesn’t know if he should be concerned how Rhodey knows all those anime references or if he should be really doing some self-reflection. But as far as he’s concerned Thor and Val are an item, or at least have something going on. Val is a year below them, she’s highly competitive with Thor but they also have this tension between them which Tony thinks would be really hot if he wasn’t pining for Thor. And she’s going to be the Senator of Athletics next year for sure. The two are just so close and they’re always laughing and hugging and they’re so perfect and excuse Tony for a sec, he’s wallowing in his sorrow again.  

When Tony’s not feeling sorry for himself, he’s offering the football team based some strategic plays on his observations. The team of guys who are mostly 6′2″ all respect this tiny compact 5′9″ genius, and some would say adore, which is especially true for a certain linebacker with a thunderous laugh. Tony’s presence always motivates him to put in extra effort at practice. So maybe he’s a bit of a show off but he wants Tony’s attention. Tony’s smart, funny and attentive, and offered to get him greasy breakfast food and a hangover cure when Thor came to school after a wild house party one day. Thor’s never forgotten that act of kindness and care.

Then one day before practice, Steve, who’s also captain of the football team, runs up to Tony before practice begins, to express his thanks for Tony’s input and support as they'd won their game the night before, which was against their biggest rival Hydra High. Tony’s taken aback by the genuine gratitude being expressed towards him, and from Steve, of all people, who always challenges/disagrees with him during their senate meetings. He’s not used to this and he blushes from the praise.

School gossip circulates the next day on the Daily Bugle section of their school’s smartphone app. Everyone in the comments section is wondering if the Captain has captured The Tony Stark’s heart because someone has snapped a picture of that moment with the two yesterday. Tony doesn’t pay much attention to the rumours because he’s used to being the topic of people’s conversation -- it kind of comes with the price being a Stark -- and it will soon be yesterday’s news anyway. 

But now Thor is really bummed by the rumours, and it’s all making sense now why Tony watches their practice all the time. And it also explains the whole Tony and Steve glaring staring-at-each-other-until-someone-clears-their-throat thing at their meetings. And it doesn’t help overhearing what Tony’s been saying to Rhodey over lunch. (Yes he’s pathetic, as his brother has kindly reminded him, choosing a table so ‘causally and coincidentally’ next to Tony’s so he can be closer to him in hopes of getting a smile from him)

At the table a couple metres over, Tony’s been saying to Rhodey something about luscious blond locks and a golden smile that warms the whole galaxy, a spirit so vigorous yet gentle like the morning sun, and, “he’s so kindhearted and funny and those muscles !! Rhodey!! I’ll admit it’s shallow of me but it’s a work of art, I’m only human, and we all strive for beauty and art.” 

When Tony and Rhodey turn to leave, they notice Thor’s been sitting right next to them this whole time and oh shit, he’s not supposed to hear that oh no! He must think I’m shallow only lusting after him, and he’s gonna avoid me now congrats for blowing it Tony! Great!

Tony gives them a tight smile turns on his heels, and Thor is even sadder now. Not only has he lost Tony to the Captain, but now Tony’s mad at him for eavesdropping. Even Loki can’t tell who’s Tony is talking about and he wouldn’t be surprised if the rumours turn out to be true. He can only pat his brother’s slumped shoulder and offer him his ice cream as consolation.

Now in comes Steve, who may be a bit of a disaster when it comes to his own love life but he’s observant and he can tell when his friends are into each other. He knows about the rumours going on and he uses them to his advantage, teams up with Rhodey so they can work together to get their friends’ heads out of their asses and admit their crushes on each other. Thor and Tony are being dumb, okay, and the rest of their friends are really tired watching them blush and stammer at each other or moaning about each other at lunch when they can just be making out under the bleachers instead and their friends can finally eat in peace.

So Steve decides to rile Thor up a bit, play up the rumours and make them seem true. In the locker rooms before practice he’ll be singing Tony’s praises, saying, “Tony really had an incredible idea for our next charity event, don’t you think, Thor? He’s got such a great business sense. With Nat’s help I’m sure they’re going to get a lot of sponsors. He’s so great.”

Thor, through gritted teeth, says, “Yes, he’s wonderful. You know I think he’s amazing.”

Steve: “He sure is! We had lunch together today --”

“I noticed.”

“-- and he was so cute when he had trouble opening his jar of chia pudding -- apparently he’s trying to eat healthy at least once a week. Anyway, I got it open for him and he was really sweet. He went on and on about how much he’s appreciative of big muscles paired with shiny blond hair, and how he loves watching football practice because of the way our pants fit. Isn’t he the best? He’s outside now waiting for us to go out and start practice and man, I’m just so glad to provide him with a nice view when he’s sitting on those bleachers watching us.”

And if Thor had bothered parsing out those words, he’d realize that everything Steve had described was vague enough that he could totally be referring to himself and insinuating that he and Tony are an item (or close to being one) OR he could be talking about Thor and how Tony loves watching him.

But Thor’s seething, okay, he’s annoyed because Steve KNOWS how much he’d always liked Tony. He doesn’t need to rub it in like this. Thor’s frustrated af because hello???? He has all those qualities that Steve described too??? Why can’t Tony look at him instead of stupid perfect Steve???

Thor’s a dumbass.

A week later, Thor, Steve, Nat, and Rhodey are sitting at lunch together so they can discuss their group project for their environmental science class. Of course, things get off topic and Homecoming is brought up. Nat mentions she’s going to be sending out another email to the student body about nominations for Homecoming king and queen, and reminds the guys that they need to send Pepper daily updates on how many tickets they’ve sold. Steve nudges Rhodey a bit and nods at Thor, which prompts Rhodey to go, “You know, Tony’s been waiting for a certain blond football player to ask him to the dance. And if said football player doesn’t do so soon then Tony might think the worst of himself and wallow for the rest of the month. I’m probably gonna have to give up my homecoming plans to console him for that entire weekend. Bring him ice cream, watch Star Trek with him until he forgets about aforementioned football player.” He says that last part very, very pointedly.

Thor’s glaring at Steve when he hears this. He thinks, what the fuck dude? He’s your boyfriend and you haven’t even asked him to the dance yet? You don’t know how to appreciate him, ugh, I could do so much better.

At the same time, Steve turns to Thor, cheeky shit-eating smile on his face and says, “You heard him. When the hell are you going to get your act together and ask Tony out, huh? If you wait any longer someone else is going to snatch him off the market.”

And Thor’s so confused because wait, Steve isn’t dating Tony??? He wants to smack himself because what the FUCK, he’s an idiot. Tony likes him back and they could have been dating and sharing milkshakes and sitting together at lunch this whole time if Thor had just asked Tony out for a coffee in junior year when Tony offered him that hangover cure.

So Thor gets up, marches over to Tony’s table with half his lunch -- an uneaten cheeseburger (he ran out to Burger King and bought two that day -- he gets hungry, okay?) -- and the thermos of coffee he keeps in his bag and presents it to the school’s resident genius.

Tony, who’d been alternating between complaining to Pepper and Happy about not having a date to the dance and gazing longingly at Thor, is completely surprised by his crush’s sudden appearance by his side.

The blond cuts to the chase. “I know this isn’t the fanciest way to ask, but I didn’t want to waste any more time,” he tells Tony. He pushes the food over to Tony, knowing that he’s weak for junk food and caffeine, and, apparently, Thor. “Would you accept this greasy burger and unfortunately lukewarm coffee, and, perhaps, go to homecoming with me?”

Clint, who’d been watching and lazily shoving waffle fries in his mouth, goes, “fuckin’ finally, god.”

“Shut up, birdbrain,” Tony says without even looking at Clint, because he’s too busy staring at Thor with heart eyes and wow, is that a flush of red creeping up Thor’s neck? He’s adorable.

Of course, Tony says yes. And just for the record, that was the best way anyone has ever asked him out.

[fxkthatdairy]

The Principal’s Office Part Three ~ Grayson Dolan

Overview: (Y/F/N) (Y/L/N) was the new 5th grade history teacher at The Dolan’s Private academy in New Jersey. She moved from across the country to teach at the school. On the first day, an unexpected visitor stops by her classroom to check in on her. What happened when they fall head over heels for each other? Check out to see.

Warnings: Angst, slight mentions of alcoholism

(Y/N) thought long and hard with her decision and finally responded:

Hey Grayson, of course I’d love to attend dinner with you this Saturday. I’d love to know more about you as well.

She laid in her bed waiting for his response like a high school girl who had just texted her crush that was on the football team. Her phone buzzed: One new message from Grayson Dolan.

Wonderful! I’ll pick you up around 7 Saturday night. I can’t wait, Goodnight (Y/N) see you tomorrow at work :).

(Y/N) plugged her phone in and placed it on the floor beside her bed, which reminded her that she desperately needed to go furniture and grocery shopping. She laid in her bed with her thoughts running rapidly through her head; Was this ethical? What would her mother think? What would her fellow employees think? She didn’t know what would happen but she shut off her thoughts when she finally managed to drift to sleep.

The rest of the week seemed to go by in a blur and now it was Friday afternoon and the school day had just ended. Her first week as a teacher had been beyond her expectations and she was in love with her new job and her students seemed to love her. She was packing everything that she needed to take home for the weekend which was a lot. She had the children take a quiz to see what they already knew and she had planned to take them home to grade them. So on top of her purse, she carried her suitcase that had her papers in. She shut her class door and locked it and when she turned around she care in contact with a sturdy chest.

“I’m so sorry. I didn’t see you there.” She apologized to Grayson who she had just accidentally ran into.

“It’s fine. Here let me help you to your car. It’s late and dark outside and I don’t trust some of the people that walk around here.” He said and took her suitcase from her hands and carried it out with her following behind him. He walked her to her car and she opened her trunk from her key fob. She didn’t realize how late it was until she checked her watch. It was 6:30 and school got out 2 hours ago. The sun had set and the parking lot was extremely dark and it seemed that Grayson and her self were the last two people there.

“Thank you so much for walking me out to my car and helping with my suitcase. Have a great night Grayson. I’ll see you tomorrow.” (Y/N) said with a smile as she got in her car. She waved at Grayson as she passed his truck in the parking lot. She got home and took a shower. She then sat up her computer on her island and began furniture shopping online. She purchased a leather “L” shaped couch, a recliner, a TV stand with a cabinet attached, she bought a dining room table with chairs, she also bought a TV stand for her room and some dressers and night stands. She knew the money wasn’t a problem, her father had left a shit ton of money in her name and that was the only god thing he ever did in her life. The man who was her father had left her mother shortly after (Y/N) was born entering periodically throughout (Y/N) life. He was an extreme alcoholic who beat his wife and disregarded his children. The bastard died last year after being shot by some man that her dad pissed off. Her father had left her brother, her sister, and her almost 5 million dollars,a piece, what he called an apology for his past mistakes. Nothing would ever make up for the trouble her father put her family through.

After (Y/N) ordered her furniture, she ordered a pizza to be delivered to her house for dinner. She also did a load of laundry and cleaned up her floors a little bit. The pizza man delivered the pizza and (Y/N) are it before taking a relaxing shower. She shaved her legs and washed her hair and body before getting out. She braided her hair, through on a silk teddy night gown and applied lotion to her legs. She plugged her phone in and laid down. She sat up her laptop and watched Dirty Dancing before falling asleep. She couldn’t wait until her TV stand came in and she could watch the actual TV.

(Y/N) woke up around 9:00 the next morning. It felt relaxing not having to get up at 5:30 to get ready for work. She got up and slid on a pair of sweatpants and a loose fitting t-shirt. She slide on a pair of white converses and grabbed her purse. She decided she was going to head to the store to finally get her some groceries so that her breakfast, lunch, and dinner wouldn’t have to come from a fast food restaurant. She got in her car and drove to the nearest market. She grabbed a variety of foods from vegetables, fruits, meats, breakfast foods, some ice creams, personal items such as tampons, pads, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, hair sprays, she also bought a new plant that was on clearance. It was a little cactus that reminded her of home. Once she paid and put the groceries in the car she headed to the Hearst Dunkin Donuts and got herself an iced coffee and a bag of sprinkled donut holes. She then headed home and unloaded her groceries, putting them in the correct place. By the time she was done putting away all of her groceries, it was only 12:00. She decided to take a quick hour nap, watch a few quick episodes of her favorite show and by the time she watched the last episode it was 5:00, so she decided to start getting ready for her dinner date. She plugged her phone in to charge and hooked up her phone to her Bluetooth speaker to listen to music as she got ready. She unbraided her hair and she styled it into a cute curly ponytail and hair sprayed it done. She did a little makeup not too much because she didn’t want to look fake on her date. The makeup she did wear was a very sheer foundation, she filled in her brows, highlighted her face, did a simple nude eyeshadow look, winged liner, mascara, and a pretty nude pink lip shade. She then searched her closet looking for the perfect outfit. She settled for a black off the shoulder top and a pair of dark jeans with a pair of black heel. She but on some simple jewelry and by the time she was done it was 6:45.

She had 15 minutes left before Grayson said he was going to be here so she made sure she had her purse and phone. It was 6:55 when her door bell rang and she answered the door. Grayson stood there with a bouquet of a mixture of sunflowers and roses. They were her favorites. He was wearing a white button up with some dark jeans and a leather jacket.

“I brought you some flowers. I saw them in some of you pictures and assumed they were your favorites. I hope you like them.” He said and handed them to you.

“I absolutely love them. They remind me of home. Thank you so much. Let me put them in a vase real quick. Come on in. Sorry it’s still empty. I just bought some new furniture.” (Y/N) said and walked into her kitchen to grab a vase. She placed the flowers in the vase and added some water in the vase and placed them in the middle of the kitchen island.

“They look absolutely beautiful. Thank you again.” She said as she grabbed her purse.

“You’re welcome. Let’s head there do we can get our reservations.” He said and took her hand. She locked the door of her house before walking with Grayson to his car. His car was beautiful actually. It wasn’t the normal truck he drove around. It was a baby blue Porche. Grayson held her hand all the way to the car and he opened the door for her and waited for to get in and shut her door. He got in on the drivers side and buckled in and started the car. (Y/N) buckled in and placed her purse in the floor board and crossed her legs. In the background faintly played some Kid Cudi music.

“You’re a fan of Cudi too?” She asked as she looked out the window.

“Yeah, I’ve liked his music since I was a teen. I didn’t expect you to like Cudi.” He said with a smile. Damn his dream girl really was real.

“He’s one of the few artists of today’s music that I’ll listen too. Other than that it’s all 80’s music for me.” She said with a laugh and smile. She could picture hours worth of conversations between the two. She didn’t even realize that they had pulled into the parking lot of the restaurant. Grayson parked the car and ran around to open the door for her. She got out and grabbed her purse. Grayson linked hands with her and walked into the restaurant.

“Welcome to Juliane’s, how can I help you.” The waitress asked as the two of them came in.

“Reservations for Dolan please.” Grayson said and the lady nodded and grabbed two menus and silverware and led us to the back where there was a nicely set up booth. (Y/N) sat on one side and Grayson sat on the other.

“May I get you two anything to drink?” She asked.

“Do you drink wine? If so what kind?” Grayson asked (Y/N) quickly.

“A little bit and red wine.” She said.

“Two glasses of your finest red wine please?” He asked and the lady nodded and went to get the drinks. (Y/N) looked through the menu and found what she wanted.

“So tell me more about yourself (Y/N). You have my undivided attention.” He said and sipped on his wine.

“Well I was born and raised in a small town in Oklahoma. I have an older sister named Jaclyn and an older brother named Trenton. I’m the baby of my family, when growing up it was just my mom, my sibling and I. As a child, I was always fascinated by history and had my mom make road trips through historical towns so that I could read and learn. I went to college at Oklahoma University on a full scholarship ride. I have two tattoos: one on my back and that’s a sunflower and I have a butterfly on my ribs. My favorite color is yellow and I have a fascination with everything 70’s,80’s, and 90’s. That’s about the general outline on myself. What about you Grayson?” She said with a smile.

“Well I was born and raised here in New Jersey. I have a twin brother named Ethan and an older sister named Cameron. My father and my mother raised us and my father passed away a few years ago to cancer and left my brother and I in charge of the schools. My brother took the high school and I took up the other. My sister has an art degree and sometimes comes and teaches at the school but she has her own studio downtown. My mother is a hair stylist. I’m allergic to almost every single animal except birds, fish, and some reptiles. I have too many tattoos to count and my favorite color is green. If you don’t mind me asking, where is your dad?” He said.

“I’m sorry about your dad. My dad was murdered last year but I didn’t know him very well. He wasn’t really in my life and when he was it was good.” She said. The lady came and took their orders and they continued looking.

“Are you in any relationship?” He asked curiously.

“Nope and never have been. It’s always been education with me.” She said and sipped on her wine.

“I haven’t been in one for a while. I told myself that I was going to wait till I found the perfect one for me.” He said. What she didn’t know was the Grayson thought that was her. The waitress brought there food back and they made small talk while eating. When it came time for them to get ready to leave (Y/N) began pulling out her wallet to pay. Before she could even get her card Grayson had already given the lady his card.

“Don’t worry about it (Y/n). It’s my treat.” He said with his breathtaking smile.

“Thank you so much tonight. I’ve really enjoyed this.” She said with a smile as the lady brought back Grayson’s card. (Y/N) and Grayson grabbed their things and got up and left. As they were sitting in the car Grayson asked, “Do you mind if I take you somewhere? It’s a surprise so you have to trust me.”

“I trust you Grayson. I have nothing else to do tonight, I’m all yours.” She said with a smile. Twenty minutes later they pulled into an empty parking lot near the beach. There was a long boardwalk with a gorgeous lighthouse at the end of the boardwalk. He opened the door for her and took her hand. By now the sun had set and the wind started picking up and she shivered. Grayson slipped off his jacket and placed it on her arms.

“Thank you.” She said and he took her hand and began waking down the boardwalk. The waves crashed against the shore and it sounded beautiful. The lights along the boardwalk were gorgeous. They walked to the end of the boardwalk and she leaned against the rail staring out into the ocean.

“It’s beautiful here.” She said with a smile.

“You’re even more beautiful.” Grayson said with a smile and turned her around to face him. His hands were rested gently on her waist and he leaned down and gently kissed her. Her heart and stomach exploded in butterflies. He pulled back and spoke, “I’m so sorry. I don’t know what came over m-“ before he could finish his sentence she kissed him to shut him up.

“Don’t apologize Grayson. I enjoyed it. I enjoy you. You make me feel like I’m a new person.” She said with a smile and placed her hand on his chest.

“Good because I’m not letting you go. You’re my one I just know it.” He said with a smile and leaned down to kiss her again.

Grayson walked her back to his car and decided to take her home since it was now almost 10:00. He walked her up to her front door.

“I’ll see you when your furniture comes in so that I can help. I’ll also bring my brother so you can meet him and he can help. I enjoyed tonight (Y/N). I can’t wait till our next date out.” He said with a smile and leaned down and pecked her lips.

“Thank you for tonight Grayson. I enjoyed it too. I’ll text you tomorrow when the items get shipped in. Text me when you get home please so that I know you made it home safe please.” She said as he pulled away. She took off his jacket and handed it back so that he wasn’t cold. She pecked his lips one last time and shut the door. As soon as the door shut and he was in his car, she freaked out. Her boss was in love with her and she was in love with him. He KISSED her. She was so whipped over him it wasn’t funny. She hopes this doesn’t affect her job and that she isn’t going to be judged even though there are going to be those people she didn’t care at the moment. She walked to her bathroom and wiped her makeup off and washed her face as well as brushed her teeth. She changed into her pajamas and brushed out her hair. She laid down in bed and waited for Grayson to text her that he was home safe and then as soon as he texted her that she fell asleep reliving her night over and over in her head.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Here is part three 😊 I was able to write this today because I was trapped in a car for 8 hours and had time to write. I hope you guys enjoy and part four will be out in a few days 🙂 if you guys have any requests, concepts, or blurbs you are welcome to send them to me. Also if you would like to be added to the tag list let me know 😊💛

Tags: @pineappledols @frickin-bats @graysavant @sweet-dolans

[maddie-the-princess]

If You Love Me, Let Me Go Part 6

Fandom: Sanders Sides

AU: High School 

Pairing(s): LAMP

Summary: Virgil and his family are new to the neighborhood. He starts a new school where he learns to love himself, and maybe, love his new friends. 

Warnings: Cursing

Thank you to @kuroyurishion for helping me with this chapter. Please enjoy the story. 

Chapter Six: Introducing the Gossip Gays

Virgil’s POV

And just like that, I received three new numbers on my phone. That brings the current number of contacts on my phone to five. Sighing to myself, I walked home after school in a comfortable silence. No one was home, as per usual, so I went upstairs to my room and began my homework. Slipping my headphones on, I played a playlist, appropriately named ‘Emo Playlist’ and worked. 

Hours later, while I was grumbling over Math homework, the playlist stopped. There was a new text from Remy.

-Group Chat: The Dark Sides-

Mr. Sandman: I’m borreedd

Double Dee: You’re always bored.

Trash Goblin: Put Redbull in your coffee!

I laughed out loud at Remus’ comment. Thinking quickly, I texted a reply.

Me: What’s up Remy?

Mr. Sandman: Babe! So glad you can join us!

Double Dee: Hey there shortstack.

Trash Goblin: Heya shortie! 

Mr. Sandman: Remember what I said earlier at lunch? About the new store opening up?

Mr. Sandman: It’s opening on Saturday. We can go then.

Double Dee: Wonderful idea. My parents already said yes.

Trash Goblin: My parents don’t give a shit, but I told them anyway!

Mr. Sandman: Sweet. Hbu babe?

I bit my lip. Would my parents even say yes? I texted back.

Me: Let me ask them.

Mr. Sandman: Let us know babe. 

Trash Goblin: Even if they say no, we’ll break you out of your house!

Double Dee: That’s illegal, Re.

Trash Goblin: Boo, you’re no fun. 

I smiled at their texts. I felt happier. I’ve never been invited out by anyone before, even if it was just to go to the mall. I placed my phone down and resumed by playlist, looking again at the math worksheet in front of me. 

Hours later, I hear the front door opening just as I was finishing up my homework. I peaked out of my room and heard the grumbling of my parents. I go down to greet them.

“Virge, honey? We’re home!” my mom calls out. She smiles at me. My dad follows her, holding a pizza box. 

“Hey sport.” he says, placing the pizza box on the table. “Our co-workers treated us to pizza today, so we brought home some for you. Hope you like onions on yours though.”

I didn’t like onions on my pizza, but I nod nonetheless. Taking a deep breath, I decided to ask them. It’s like a bandaid. You just have to rip it off.

“Hey mom, dad?” I asked hesitantly, hoping my voice wouldn't waver. They give me a hum in response. Hurry, before I lose my confidence. “Can I go to the mall with my friends on Saturday?!” I ask quickly. The two of them stopped in their tracks. 

“You have friends?!” my mom exclaims. “And they’re inviting you out?” I flinch. I know she didn’t mean for that to sound harsh, but still. Even my dad was giving her a questioning glance. 

“What your mother means,” my dad interjects, “is that we’re surprised you’re making friends this quickly. But sure, sport. We have work on Saturday, but it seems ok with us.” He turns around and grabs a slice of pizza from the box and presents it to me. “Now, wanna have a slice?”

After the pizza dinner, I went back upstairs to get ready for bed. I texted my friends before I slept.

Me: Raincheck on breaking me out of my house, Re. They said yes.

Trash Goblin: Aww man! My services are still available to you if you ever need it!

Double Dee: Remus, no.

Trash Goblin: Remus yes!

Mr. Sandman: Enough you two. Thanks for letting us know babe. My dad will pick us all up at about noon, so give me your address.

I sent my address to them.

Mr. Sandman: Thanks babe. See you tomorrow at school!

Double Dee: Good night shortstuff.

Trash Goblin: Do let the bedbugs bite tonight shortie!

Me: Thanks guys. Good night.

With that, I plugged my phone in and got comfortable underneath the comforter. Today was Wednesday, and I found myself waiting excitingly for Saturday to come. 

***

The rest of the week went by quickly. I was getting accustomed to class, and to Patton, Logan, and Roman in them. Before I knew it, it was Saturday. I was pacing nervously in the living room. My mom left for work already, but my dad was still getting ready while giving me a talk.

“If you’re ever in trouble, don’t hesitate to call me or your mother. Or find mall security.”

“Ok dad.”

“Don’t wander from the group. Use the buddy system if you have to.”

“Got it dad.”

“I’ll let you borrow my card if you want to buy something.”

“Thanks dad.”

I continued to pace around, looking down at my outfit, making sure it was ok. I wore my signature black ripped jeans and my black Doc Martin boots, with Fall Out Boy T-shirt and a purple flannel wrapped around my waist. I wore my usual black eyeshadow but decided to paint my nails a dark purple this time. My black backpack contained my sketchbook, phone, wallet, and other necessities. 

There was a honk outside the house. I raced towards the door, and found a large silver car with Remy in the front seat. The window rolled down, and he smiled cheekily at me. “Hey Mr. Sullivan!” Remy called out as I went towards his car. My dad smiled and waved me a goodbye as he also left the house for work. “I’ll have your son home at a reasonable time!” Remy said as I got into his car. Dee and Remus were already there with Remus sitting by the window. I greeted them happily. I was excited for this little excursion. 

“Looking good shortie!” Remus cackled. I sent him a kind hearted glare and Dee sighed in exasperation. 

“Let’s get this show on the road babes!” Remy cheered and we drove off. Along the way, Dee pointed out different places around town that we could visit at a later time, like a coffee shop, ice cream parlor, and other restaurants, and some small businesses run by families. Ten minutes later, we arrived at the mall. It was huge, maybe with about 2-3 floors! Remy grinned at my stunned expression. “Haven’t seen a mall this size, huh Vee?” he teased.

We entered, and Remy dragged us to the store that just opened. Turns out it was a piercing store, and there were people already lined up for it. Remy whistled. 

“Damn, there’s already a bunch of people here.” he exclaims. A woman holding fliers spotted us and grinned, walking towards us earnestly. She had long neon pink hair and was heavily inked. 

“Hey!” she greeted, handing each one of us a flier advertising the new store. “This is Tears for Pierce, a piercing store that also doubles as a tattoo parlor. This flier I gave you tells you guys a bit about what kinds of things we do here.” 

I looked over it. There were a lot of selections, including belly button piercings or ear piercings, and some selections for tattoos. The prices are beside the selections. The girl continues, “If you want to have a tattoo or body piercing done, you have to be at least eighteen or older. But that excludes ear piercings.” She points to the top of the flier. “My name is Amelia Stone, and there’s my contact info if you have any further questions.” She walked away to hand out more fliers. 

The four of us were in stunned silence. “None of us are eighteen yet.” Dee noted seriously, looking straight at Remus, who was pouting like a child. Remy whistled and pocketed the flier. 

“We have a couple more years.” he said, and the four of us went on our merry way. Dee, Remy, and Remus showed me the best places to go and hang, pointing out their favorite stores and restaurants. Remy obviously liked Starbucks, but also liked tea stores. Dee prefered Aeropostale or Hollister. Remus’ favorite store was hands down Spencers. When they asked me, I answered Hot Topic with no hesitation. 

“Of course the emo loves Hot Topic.” Remus said fondly. He slung his arm around my neck, draping it over my shoulders. “We’re gonna head over to some shops, but first, let’s have lunch.” And we had lunch at the Food Court, with Remus stealing put fries and having a mini food fight. Then, Remus hauled us over to the various stores scattered throughout the mall. 

Around we went, in and out of stores, checking out what they had. Remy went and bought a couple new leather jackets and comfy sweaters, while Dee bought a new pair of pants and a couple new shirts. Remus dragged me to Hot Topic, and the two of us had a fun time picking out different band t-shirts and jewelry. I bought some chokers and more band T-shirts, because you can never have too many band T-shirts. Remus bounded over to Spencers, where we found him in the very back. 

We continued like this, trying to find styles that we liked. After hours of walking around, trying to find what I liked, Remy and I walked into a store while Remus and Dee took a small break. Remy hummed as he looked through racks of pants, picking and choosing what looked good for either him or me. I wandered off and looked at flannel shirts.

Then, something caught my eye. It was a gothic black and purple plaid skirt, with black ribbons in the front. I picked it up, and internally cheered when I found out it was my size. I admired it for a bit. It looked pretty, and I really liked how it looked. It kinda… suited me? 

“You want it?” I heard a voice ask. I whirled around in surprise. Remy was looking at what I have with an amused smirk. I blushed in embarrassment.

‘Oh god, what if he thinks I’m a freak.’ I thought miserably. And before the second week of school, here I believed a friendship had been ruined, ‘He’s gonna gossip about me to the entire school. He’s gonna bully me and everyone’s gonna think that I’m a weirdo and-’ My thoughts were stopped when I felt Remy gently place his hands on my shoulder.

“Vee,” he said soothingly, “breathe for me. I know what you’re thinking.” He took the skirt from my hands and observed it. “Frankly, I don’t give a shit if you wear a skirt. If you’re comfortable in it, then go on and wear it. But if you want my opinion, I think you’d rock this skirt.” he declared.

I perked up. “Seriously?!” I exclaimed. Remy nodded. I nearly cried happy tears. 

“You lack confidence, Vee.” Remy said, turning away with the skirt in hand. I followed after him. “You're shy and anxious. As your friends, Dee, Ree, and I want you to be comfortable with yourself. He went to the counter and paid for it before I could protest. He stuffed the skirt in my bag. “Don’t worry about it babe.” Remy said when I asked why he paid for it. “Think of it as a welcome gift.” 

When we walked out of the store, Dee and Remus looked proud.

*** Before we left the mall, we stopped at Starbucks. The barista took one look at Remy and immediately started making a cup of coffee. I looked at him amused. “Kinda famous in this place.” Remy muttered fondly. “What do the rest of you want?”

Minutes later, the four of us were sitting at a high table, chatting idly. 

“So shortstuff,” Dee starts off, “I’ve seen you getting a little close to some boys in our class. Care to share with the class what’s been going on there?” 

I choked on my drink. “What?” I coughed. 

Dee rolls his eyes. “I know a lot of things shortstuff.” he says teasingly. “That day when you had a misunderstanding? I did some observing.” 

Remy raised an eyebrow. “Spill the tea, Dee.” he demanded lightly. “Seems I’ve been missing something.”

I signaled for Dee to stop talking with a light glare. He didn’t. “It seems to me that shortstuff over here is pining over three boys.” he drawled. “Patton Hart, Logan Owens, and Roman King.”

Three things happened simultaneously. One, I put my head down and tried to hide from the world. Two, Remy outright laughed at me. Three, Remus actually spat out his drink all over the table. Dee grimaced and went to clean up the mess with Remus’ help.

“Holy shit.” Remus cackled. I shot my head up and glared at him. “I fucking knew it! Roro’s gonna be so jealous. I didn’t even tell him that you were coming with us today!” 

I stared at him. “You’re brothers.” I stated, like it was the most obvious thing in the world. Remus nodded. “I’m the older twin, by like a minute, and obviously the hotter one.”

“Yeah, sure.” I teased. Remus gasped, offended.

“I totally am!” he declared. “Double Dee, you think I’m the hotter twin right?” Dee didn’t even grace him an answer, so Remus pressed again, leaning against him with a pout on his face. “Double Dee?” he whined. He leaned further into Dee’s space, his face close to Dee’s. Remy and I were looking on with suppressed giggles. Looking closely, you could see a faint blush on Dee’s cheeks.

“Yes, Remus.” Dee answered with a sigh. “You’re the hotter twin.” At this, Remus cheered happily and turned to me with a victorious look on his face. Remy snickered under his breath, and muttered “whipped”. Dee turned to him with a teasing grin.

“And what about you, Remy? Keep in touch with a certain cartoon loving person?

Remy spluttered. Damn, nobody is safe from Dee today. I tilted my head in confusion. 

Dee explained. “Remy hung out with an upperclassman last year, and became really close. He’s in his first year of college right now studying to be a therapist.”

I gaped at my friend. “An older guy, huh? In college no less.” I teased. I couldn’t help it. The three of us laughed as Remy groaned into his hands. 

“You’re all terrible people. I hate you all.” Remy grumbled. That sent the three of us into another fit of laughter. 

Remy’s dad brought me home near 10:00 in the evening. “We’ll see you at school Monday Vee!” Remy called out. “And you better wear some of the new things we got you!” With that, the car drove off after making sure I was safe inside my house. 

Putting all of the new clothes away in my dressers, the skirt remained folded and placed gently deep inside my closet, I did my nighttime routine. I lay in bed, thinking about today. I had fun with Dee, Remus, and Remy. They’re really nice, really accepting, and just generally an awesome group of people. I really liked them. Smiling to myself, I turned underneath the covers, glad that I found a group of friends that like me, and I like them in return.

Anyone wanna be in my taglist? Let me know!

Taglist:

@sure-i-exist

@theoretically--speaking

@sups-stuff

[dreamerfae]

Two Night Stand

Summary: Touka woke up naked in a house belonging to a stranger named Haise and found herself stuck with him for the next 24 hours due to a snowstorm. How will they spend the time?

Word count: 7807

Rating: Mature 

Genre: Alternate Universe - Human

Notes: WARNING MATURE THEMES. NO SMUT, BUT IMPLIED! READ AT YOUR RISK.

Waking up with a groan, Haise rose from the bed and winced as his eyes tried to adjust to the brightness of his room. It was only morning and his head hurt like hell. He felt some rustling of the bedsheets and blankets and looked to his side. What the..?

A woman with violet hair, bangs covering one side of her face sat up in bed and stared at him with equal shock.

"Who the hell are you?" She asked.

"Uh—"

From her naked shoulders, his eyes strayed down to her exposed torso. He quickly tossed the blanket at her, face flushed red. "First, cover up!" He exclaimed, trying his best to exercise his gentleman trait and looked away.

She didn't catch the blanket in time and it hit her head. "What the?!" Looking down at her naked body, realization struck her that she was completely naked in a stranger's bed and he was just trying to be considerate, not rude. Cheeks burning, she wrapped herself with the blanket and looked around the room to find her clothes strewn all over the floor.

Touka raised her head and caught a glimpse of his backside as he pulled up his banana boxers. She stifled a giggle at the ridiculous design and couldn't help but let out her thoughts. "That's a silly design for underwear."

He looked at her with shock and astonishment. "Don't laugh! This boxer with bananas is my favorite design!"

The woman laughed and he could only stand there and burn in embarrassment because she was making fun of his boxers. The laughter finally ceased and then a loud rumble filled the room. The female flushed, hands going to rest over her stomach.

It was his turn to laugh and she reacted by throwing a pillow angrily at him. Even so, he laughed until his tears fell.

"Nice to meet you, I'm Sasaki Haise. What's your name?" He leaned over and put out his hand.

Cheeks blushing, she shook his hand. "Kirishima Touka."

What was this situation? They were shaking hands and introducing themselves when they were both partially or fully naked. Touka wanted to laugh.

He put on his pants and shirt. "Let's get changed and have some lunch. Then, we can talk, alright?"

Her stomach growled in agreement.

—

After putting their clothes in the washing machine and changing into a new set of clothes, Touka sat at the dining table with a hot cup of coffee in front of her. She noted the heavy snow outside the window and shivered. No wonder it was cold. Sipping her coffee, she sighed, grateful how a warm beverage, plus a painkiller, brought her back to life.

"Is omelet rice okay for you?" He asked.

"Yeah."

Touka watched how he cooked from behind and marveled at the broad shoulders he had. He must work out a lot to get those wide shoulders and biceps. It was slight, but they strained against his white shirt and she snapped out of her trance when he walked towards her with 2 plates of rice and put it down on the table.

They ate in awkward silence. Putting the dishes away once they were done, they sat facing one another.

"Okay.  Let's take some time to remember what happened last night to lead to what's happening right now." Haise said.

-Flashback-

Haise winced at the loud music in the nightclub and the moving rainbow spotlights that blinded his eyes. Everywhere he walked, there were people dancing, shouting and laughing. He questioned his decision in following his best friend to this shady place, where he could be at home right now reading a good book with a good cup of coffee.

As Hide had quoted, "You work too much, Haise! You need to get out and get a life! Get a girl or two!"

Not wanting to dance nor socialize with anyone, he ended up sitting at the bar alone while Hide went somewhere with a blonde-haired woman. He ordered a whiskey and sighed heavily as he stared down at his drink, thinking of excuses to give Hide so he could go home.

"Party pooper much? Everyone's out there having fun while you're sighing here."

He turned to the lady beside him and squinted his eyes to observe her features. He couldn't tell what color her hair and eyes were from the dark environment, but he knew they were dark. Her bangs covered one side of her face and she had the most amused look in her eyes.

Despite being the absolute gentleman in every way, he was in no mood for games.

"Says the one who's sitting at the bar alone. What's a pretty girl like you doing alone?" He asked, sipping his drink.

She laughed—a sound too soft because of the booming music. "Touché. My friend dragged me here without my consent so here I am, alone. Would the lonely gentleman treat me to a drink?" Her eyes narrowed seductively.

One end of his lips quirked. He knew she was flirting with him and bought her a drink anyway. Her eyes watched how she put her pink lips to the glass and drank, the drink going down her slim throat. "Name's Touka, what's yours?"

"Haise."

The rest was history, as they got completely drunk, took a cab back to his house and slept with one another drunkenly.

-Flashback Over-

Their faces paled as the memory returned to them and they bowed their heads in embarrassment.

"I shouldn't have drunk that much alcohol. I don't know what happened to me that night. I rarely even drink." Touka groaned.

Haise sighed. "Me neither... so we actually did it? A one night stand?"

She hesitated. "..I don't remember a thing."

"Me neither."

Silence filled them and Touka shifted uncomfortably because she just lied to his face. The truth is, she just remembered the sex they had last night, but only vaguely. They were in bed, and she recalled him being atop her,  his cheeks red, face twisting in pleasure as he moved above her. She couldn't remember whether the sex was good or anything else for that matter until she woke up in his bed this morning.

"Well, this is awkward. Can we just put this behind us and pretend nothing happened? It was just one night, no commitment or anything right?" Touka asked nervously.

"Y-yeah, we should."

Another beat of silence fell over them.

Touka stood up and grabbed her clothes. "Alright, it was nice meeting you and I should be going now."

"Ah sure." Haise stood up as well, guiding her to his main entrance and opened the door for her like a gentleman. He smiled. "See you."

She smiled and thanked him before stepping out. The door closed behind her and she shivered at the cold air. Putting on her coat, she left the building and found herself stopping because the snow from the previous night piled up too high until it reached her knees.

She noticed how weird it was when there wasn't a single car nor bus moving on the streets and no one was outside. The wind was blowing too strongly, with the snow falling against her face and she sneezed. It's too cold!

Suddenly, she heard Haise calling for her from behind.

"Wait! It's a snowstorm outside! The news said transport isn't working! You need to come back inside and see the news!" Haise panted.

The door shut behind them and they ran to the living room, where the television was announcing that the snowstorm was expected to last for the whole of today and if things become better, transport will be resumed the next morning. Thankfully, it was only Saturday and they didn't have work.

Touka fidgeted and felt weird to ask a stranger—whom she had slept with—for a favor and found it difficult to meet his eyes. "..do you mind letting me stay at your house at least until the snow lets up?"

She didn't expect his face to brighten, and a grin to grace his lips. "Sure! It's been since I've had someone else over at my house. I'm so excited!"

"R-right... do you think I could get a shower first? I... feel sticky." She trailed off, cheeks burning.

Realizing why she was sticky, his cheeks warmed. The previous night, they had done unspeakable things. "Y-yeah, sure. I'll grab a towel and guide you to the bathroom."

—

Feeling refreshed after a warm bath, she sighed in relief and wrapped her hair up in a towel. She noticed Haise sitting on his bed awkwardly and nudged him. "You should take a bath too."

"Um sure, you can watch some television if you're bored. I have books also if you're into reading. I'll be back real quick!"

He grabbed his clothes and disappeared into the toilet. She found herself chuckling. He was acting so nervous in front of someone he had already slept with. Well, she couldn't blame him, it was weird for a night stand relationship to be extended. It usually just ends with one night, hence the term 'one-night stand'.

But since they were going to be stuck with each other for another day, she thought why not just try getting along with him? It's better than ignoring each other for the whole day.

—

"So um, do you have anything we can do to kill the time? You know since we're stuck until the transport is back up?" Touka asked, shoving her hands into the pockets of the sweatpants that he lent her. His clothes looked oversized on her but she couldn't complain, it was the only clothes available.

Haise pondered. "Well... I have a pool table, a Wii and XBOX console, a foosball table and some movies we can watch. Which do you want to do first?"

She stared jaw open, dumbfounded at what he had just said. "Excuse me? Aside from the movies and Wii and Xbox, why do you have a foosball and pool table? Your place feels like an arcade.."

He laughed, a sweet melody to her ears. "My best friend always comes over to my house and he likes these games so I bought them so we can play whenever he was over. We split the money anyways. Personally, I just read my books. So which one?" He looked expectantly at her for her answer.

"You rich as hell." She mumbled and his eyes crinkled at her comment. "Let's play Xbox and Wii?"

"Okay."

—

Touka looked through the selection of games; soccer, music, simulation, mystery, horror and chose fighting. Settling beside each other on the couch, she crossed her legs and leaned forward.

"Alright, I'll win this!" She exclaimed and they proceeded to battle it out with their chosen characters.

Haise found himself extremely amused at how she was so engrossed in the game and still can make lots of reaction while she was still playing, like 'shit' or 'no' or 'damn' or 'you're going down'. Despite all the sounds that come out of her, she still lost all 3 rounds against him.

She glared at him at the end and he shrugged—trying to hide his amusement. "I play these all the time, what do you expect? Do you want me to go easy on you?"

At his suggestion, her eyes hardened and she searched through the other games. "Let's play another game. I don't believe I can't beat you in any of the others!"

With what pretty appearance she had on the outside, he was surprised to find that she had a competitive trait inside. He rarely saw that in a woman and he was very interested to find out more about this woman whom he was going to spend the remaining day with.

Touka sighed heavily and dropped herself against the couch. She wanted to melt into the couch and never surface again. "I can't believe I lost all of the games! There's a limit to how good you can be at games!" She groaned.

He laughed. "I told you I can go easy on you but you didn't want me to."

She punched his arm. "No! I hate it when people do that! It's like they're looking down on me!"

"Then don't complain~"

Deep down, he wondered why he was acting so friendly and open with her. Was it because they were stuck together or because they had already slept together? Either way, even though they were just strangers and not a couple, he felt more comfortable with her than he did with actual girlfriends in the past—where he had to hold back his thoughts and words—despite knowing each other for only one night plus a few hours.

"Next game. Pool."

—

"So uh, tell me, Touka. Why were you at the night club that night?" Haise asked, adjusting all of the balls into the middle of the pool table before hitting them, making them spread all over the table.

Touka's eyes traced how he leaned over, positioned the stick in his hands and shot the ball into the hole with extreme accuracy and speed. "Well... I had just broken up with my boyfriend of 2 years and was feeling down. My friend brought me out to cheer me up."

"..sorry to hear that. Did you have fun?"

"Don't be. It isn't your fault that we broke up. He cheated on me, so I broke up with him. And yes, I had fun, thanks to you."

His smile didn't reach his eyes as he focused on the earlier part of her reply. Her boyfriend cheated on her. "..do you want to talk about your ex-boyfriend? I mean, we're stuck together for the next 24 hours, so the least I can do is lend a listening ear."

She smiled sadly. "Thanks, maybe at a later time."

He nodded and changed the topic. "Shall we do a quiz? We'll each state a topic or question and we answer at the same time. That way, we can get to know each other better."

Touka shrugged. "Sure, why not?"

He was 27, she was 26. He liked romance movies, while she liked action and horror. His favorite food is omelet rice and hers is beef rice bowl. He is an insurance agent and she is a physiotherapist. His hobbies were reading and cooking, her hobbies were listening to hard metal music and doing sports.

They exchanged playful talks over what they liked and disliked and all too soon, the pool game was over, leaving Touka pissed and unsatisfied.

"Why?!!!" She exclaimed and groaned. "I'm losing to you every time!!!"

Haise laughed. "I've been watching how you played for this game and now I know what are your faults. Let's play again, I'll teach you."

She sighed. "Fine..."

After setting the balls in the triangle in the middle, Touka took her stick and stared at him. "First, show me how you lean over to shoot the balls." He instructed and tried not to check out her butt as she leaned over and focused on her form.

Touka felt his body mold over hers, his hand taking her arm to properly position it the right angle and way, and his breath was warm in her ear. "Your arm needs to be further from your head and your fingers should be like this." His hand covered hers, forming it to the position that guaranteed a win but somehow she could only think about how his body felt comfortably against hers and how warm it was.

Together, they used the stick to hit the ball and Touka watched as it went into the hole. Standing up straight, she turned to him who had a huge grin on his face. "You did it!"

She found herself smiling as well and had a huge urge to tease him. "Don't tell me you purposely taught me that way just so you can feel me up?"

He blinked, and a full-blown blush formed on his cheeks and even his ears. "No! I just—I had good intentions! You saw how the ball went in!

She laughed and he stared, mesmerized at her laughter.  Wiping her tears away, she shoved him playfully with a grin. "I'm just joking, don't be so serious about it."

"Why would I need to feel you up when we've already done it last night..." he looked away, murmuring.

Now, she flushed. A sudden image of him reaching for her flashed in her mind. "You remembered what happened last night?"

His eyes widened. "No, I still don't remember. Do you?"

"..a little bit."

He started toward her, curious. "What do you remember?"

She flushed. "Don't ask me."

"Why? I want to know because I don't remember anything."

"It's embarrassing..."

"Just tell me."

She fidgeted. "I only remember how you were atop me and your naked chest, okay?!"

He came close to her and cupped her cheek. He had a beautiful pair of grey eyes that were hidden under his long eyelashes. "You're cute when you're shy."

The once friendly atmosphere changed into an intimately charged one. They were two adults, man, and woman, alone in the house, standing so close to one another that they could feel each other's body heat.

Her heart raced in her chest as she looked up at his handsome face and turned away. Why the hell was she having thoughts about this man being handsome when she's only known him for a night? She had just broken up with her boyfriend of 2 years for god's sake!

Haise's lips parted and the hand that was on her cheek moved to rest on his nape. "S-sorry, I shouldn't have done that."

"..It's fine. Let's continue with the game."

—

Despite getting better at each game they played, Touka still couldn't win him, not because of her skills—she actually was a quick learner—but because she was too distracted by what had happened between them earlier.

She tried so hard to forget his touch but she couldn't remember the last time her ex-boyfriend had touched so gently and gazed at her that way, as Haise did. Tears brimmed in her eyes and she blinked them away.

Haise stared down at his hand and remembered how her skin flushed pink when he touched her. Thinking back, he could sense that she was thinking about the same thing he was and can't help but want to fill in the gaps of what happened between them in bed the previous night.

—

They ignored what transpired between them and continued playing games and chatting with each other as if they had been friends for 10 years. The inexistence of awkward moments made it feel like they didn't just meet the previous night.

Even over dinner, Touka felt herself slowly opening to Haise even though she normally didn't hit it off that well with strangers. Having shared one night and half the day with him, she felt comfortable with him and spoke to him like she would with her best friend. For the first time in ages, she felt happy that she was able to have someone other than Yoriko to speak with so frankly and comfortably with.

But even if she felt that way with Haise, spilling every detail about her life with him, she was careful to not touch on the topic of her ex-boyfriend because she didn't think she was ready to talk about it.

After dinner, they decided to watch movies.

"What? No! I don't want a romance movie! What's so interesting about them? There's no action, nothing! I want to watch an action movie!" Touka exclaimed.

Haise gasped in shock, astonished and offended by her comment about his favorite movie genre. "Excuse me!! Romance movies are interesting! They always start off with the 2 parties being strangers, slowly getting to know each other until the climax hits them when they finally realized that they love one another! That's the romantic and interesting part! How dare you say there's nothing interesting about it! You're just saying that 'cause you've never watched one!"

She scoffed. "I've watched one and I didn't like it. Romance movies are for babies and those who want to see happily ever after that won't happen in reality."

Silence filled the air as she cursed herself for speaking more than necessary. Her words were obviously directed to her own relationship which didn't end well.

Thankfully, he didn't ask about the reason she said those words and suggested, "how about this? I'll watch with an action movie with you, and you'll watch a romance movie with me. That way, it'll be fair for both of us. Good?"

"..okay," Touka shrugged, not completely happy with his suggestion but didn't argue.

—

The action movie was dusted and done, with a huge grin appearing on Touka's face when he told her he enjoyed it. The next was a romance movie. It was only until it ended with a happy ending (thankfully) and he turned it off that he saw how she had her head down in the knees she pulled up.

Worried, he shook her. "Are you okay?"

She looked at him for a second, where he saw the tears in her eyes and she ran to the kitchen to get a cup of water. "I'm fine."

Though her back was toward him and trying to hold her sounds in, he could tell that she was shaking from her crying. Immense regret filled him as he realized he shouldn't have insisted on a romance movie when she had just broken up with her boyfriend. He was horribly tactless.

He walked towards her and gently tugged her so she faced him. Cupping her cheek, he tilted it so they met eyes. "Hey... if this is about the movie, I'm sorry I chose a show that you didn't enjoy. If this is about your ex-boyfriend...I'm here if you want to talk..."

Her lips trembled as more tears fell down her lovely blue eyes. "It's just...I used to believe in happy endings, where a relationship led to a wedding and happily ever after. I was really expecting Haruki to propose to me since we've been dating for quite some time. But I knew something was up when he started distancing himself from me and how he always postponed our dates, saying that he had work... I should have seen it coming but I believed in him. When I saw him at his home fucking another woman, it became clear that he had been cheating on me with her for a long time now. I broke up with him because I didn't think I could take any more of that."

Haise wiped her falling tears and his heart ached for her. No one deserved to see their loved one cheating with their own eyes. His mind could only come up with one sentence.

"If I were your boyfriend, I would never make you cry."

She stared up at him with wide eyes and he stepped back after realizing that he had just said his inner thoughts out loud. He dropped his hands to his sides and panicked. "I-I'm sorry, I didn't—"

The ends of her lips turned up into a smile and she wiped a stray tear. "You're a nice person, aren't you? Thank you for saying that. I appreciate it, even though you may not mean it."

"That's not—I do mean those words!"

She only smiled in response and he knew she didn't believe him.

"Can I then take advantage of your kindness and ask you for a favor?"

"As long as it's within my abilities, I will do it."

He was willing to do anything to help her. He just didn't want to see her miserable anymore. Anything to make her stop crying.

"Kiss me."

He hesitated before cupping her cheek and leaning forward until his bangs tickled her face.

"..are you sure?"

She nodded. "Please."

His arms came around her in an embrace and her heart raced in her chest. His lips rested gently on hers and her eyes fluttered shut. Parting her lips slightly, she allowed him to deepen their kiss but he didn't. He never ventured into her mouth, only gently sucking on her lips.

Caressing his cheek, Touka smiled. "You're sweet."

"Why do you say that?" He asked, genuinely puzzled.

"Because you didn't do anything I didn't want. Even if I gave my permission, you didn't give it to me. I wanted to ask you to give me hard and hot sex, but I'm sure you wouldn't give it to me, would you?" She joked.

His cheeks flushed red. "No, I wouldn't. No woman deserves to get that, especially not you, because you don't deserve just sex, you deserve making love with feelings. I mean... unless the woman has specific hobbies in bed..." he trailed off.

"Are you just saying that because I broke up with my boyfriend?"

"No. I'm saying because it's you."

His words warmed her. She wished she could have met him before Haruki. He seemed like a good man who would take care of her. But then again, Haruki seemed that man at that time. People change over time.

"Then, would you give it to me? Make love to me, with feelings?"

He hesitated. "I...I don't think I should even if you asked. It's not the right gentlemanly thing to do as your feelings are not in order after a breakup... You're upset and you're making decisions that you may regret after."

She rested her head on his chest. "I promise you I won't regret it. Please."

He swallowed and seemed to struggle with his feelings for a while before taking her hand into his. "Let's go to my room."

— After —

Pulling Touka into his arms, Haise pressed a kiss to her sweaty forehead and tucked a stray hair behind her ear. "Are you okay?" He asked, concerned.

His sweet gesture and words brought tears to her eyes and he immediately panicked. "I'm sorry! I didn't know I was that bad in bed, did it hurt—"

She held his hand to her cheek and smiled. "You were great. It was everything I dreamt of. I feel so happy that you touched me so gently as if I was beautiful and worth it."

His gaze softened. "That's because you are. You deserve better than Haruki."

A sad smile formed on her face. "I guess that's true. Can I ask you for another favor? I promise it isn't that bad."

"What is it?"

"For the remaining time until I leave, will you treat me as your real girlfriend? I just want to be feel loved..."

Haise couldn't refuse the sorrow and loneliness in her eyes and kissed her. "And love you shall get... I accept your request."

--

"I'm sure a handsome guy like you have had girlfriends before. Tell me about them." Touka said, fingers tracing circles on his chest.

"I'm not handsome—"

Touka laughed. "Don't lie! You are!"

He grinned, happy that he made her laugh. She seems happier now. "Alright, in your eyes, I am, but believe it or not, I've only ever had 2 girlfriends."

"No way! Why?"

Haise shrugged. "I was busy with work previously and had no time for relationships."

"Did you love them?"

She was holding her breath for his answer.

"I would like to think I did. But in the end, when we broke up, strangely I didn't feel sad that it was over. Maybe I didn't love them as much as I thought. Thinking back, I should have spent more time with them. Maybe then, the relationship would have worked out. But it's too late to have regrets now anyway."

It was his words but Touka could see the sadness in his eyes. He probably said it to hide his feelings and make her feel better. She wouldn't have touched on this topic if she knew how sad it would make him. Her heart ached, and she didn't like seeing him unhappy.

She raised herself so he was beneath her, his wide eyes staring up at her, and she moved to kiss him. His arms wrapped around her waist as he kissed the column of her neck, making her sigh and she hoped that this would be enough to make him forget, just as he had made her forget about her sadness when they made love earlier on.

The first time they did it, it was filled with only warmth and gentleness. This second time, it felt raw and emotional, as if they were pouring out all of their sadness and feelings.

When it was all over, Haise frowned at the sweat that fell down his temples and turned to her. "I think I need a shower."

Touka sighed with a smile. "I do too."

Jumping out of bed, he pulled up his boxers and rushed over to catch her before she toppled to the floor with her wobbly legs. Grabbing his body tightly, she gave him an embarrassed smile. "I should have known that I won't be able to walk properly right after."

He grinned, showing his white teeth. "I'll help you to the bathroom. Do you need to put on your underwear?"

She glanced over at her underwear scattered all over the floor and shook her head. "Nope, gonna take them off in the shower later anyways."

--

After helping one another in washing hair and bodies, they settled comfortably into the bathtub with Touka's back against Haise's chest.

"..Do you feel better now? I mean, you seemed pretty sad when you talked about your ex-girlfriends." She asked, staring at the ripple of water in front of her.

He winced. "You noticed that? I was just trying to make sure my feelings didn't burden you, what with you having just broken up with your boyfriend."

Turning around, the water sloshed in the tub as she raised her hands to cup his cheeks. "You don't have to do that, you know. We've been together for the last 12 hours or so, and even seen each other naked already so I don't think there's much we can hide. Talk to me, just like how I confided in you."

He smiled and kissed her. "I will, thank you."

--

Haise stared at the sleeping beauty in his bed wearing his clothes and pushed her bangs aside, only to be amused when it fell back down to cover her face. She had long eyelashes, a small nose, and tempting pink lips.

It isn't surprising at this point, because he must have realized it earlier on that within a span of 12 hours, he had fallen in love with Touka. It probably started when she woke up in his bed with bed hair and further strengthened when she told him about her breakup. From there, the strong urge of wanting to do anything to make her happy blossomed into feelings of love.

He felt that he could make her happy. Staring at her now, he saw a future with her. Them laughing together, cuddling on cold nights, sharing a bed, doing house chores together, a ring on her fourth finger, a wedding with loved ones, and children. Greedily, even though he knew she was suffering now, he wanted all of that with her.

He took a few more moments to carve her face into memory since she was leaving tomorrow before falling asleep himself.

--

When it's time to leave the next morning, they stand at the door facing one another.

"Shall I send you to the train station?" Haise offered.

Touka smiled. "It's okay, I can walk. You've done so many things for me already. Thank you for your offer though."

Awkwardness filled the room now.

He struggled with whether he should tell her his feelings or not and decided it's now or never. After this, he'll probably never see her again. Gathering his courage, he closed his hands into fists and opened his mouth. "I like you, Touka. Will you be my girlfriend? For real? I know you still have feelings for Haruki but I'm willing to wait for as long as it takes. Even if you never stop loving him, I'm willing to be number 2 in your heart."

He waited expectantly for her answer and her heart broke when she already knew what she was going to say to him. "I appreciate your feelings, Haise, but there was never going to be something that comes out of this two-night stand. Yes, I still love Haruki and you don't deserve someone who can't cherish you properly. You need to find someone who can love you 100% and I can't be that person. I'm sorry."

Haise deflated and forced a smile. "I-I understand. Then, I wish you all the best in everything you do. I hope the next time I see you somewhere, you're happy. Thank you for the time we spent together. It was the most fun."

The most fun I'll probably have for the rest of my life.

She smiled. "Thank you. I had the most fun as well."

Silence.

He stepped forward. "C-can I kiss you one last time? A goodbye kiss?"

"Okay."

Cupping her cheeks, he kissed her and took this moment to edge into his memory the softness and strawberry taste of her lips, and the warmth of her body against his. He swore to never forget this ever.

It was a bittersweet kiss and both knew that the moment they separated, it would mean the end of their relationship and that they would never see each other again.

They separated and he quickly pulled her into a hug. "A goodbye hug," he murmured as he squeezed her tight.

Despite not wanting it to end, Touka had to put an end to it. She felt extremely emotional that she had to leave someone who made her feel comfortable to be around with and she would cry if she stayed any longer. "Okay. Then, it's goodbye."

Haise watched her give him a last smile before closing the door behind her. He dropped onto the bed, looked at the indent on his bed that Touka left behind and smelt her scent on the pillow. His eyes tear up and he already misses her when not even 5 minutes has passed.

—

1 month has gone since they last saw one another and loneliness has been a constant companion despite having family and friends with them.

Everywhere Haise went, he would look out for a short violet haired woman with bangs covering the side of her face, but to no avail. He slept with his arms around the pillow that carried her fragrance which faded each time he inhaled.

He would walk around in his house and recall the moments he spent with her there. The pool table, the television, the dining table. He was grateful that these memories were the only thing that kept him from breaking down completely.

Often, he tried to forget about her and move on with his life as if they had never met, but he just couldn't, not when his feelings for her are still present in his soul. He could only pray that she's well and is happy now.

—

Dropping onto her couch, Touka stared directly at the wall and found herself thinking about Haise. She shook her head to distract herself but no matter how she tried to forget him, she just couldn't get him out of her mind.

His kind, caring personality, his stupid jokes and smiles, and the warmth and comfort that his arms brought her. She had tried to form that same warmth by piling her bed with many pillows and hugging them, but she couldn't find the same warmth he gave her. She missed him with an ache that hurt her chest.

Her mind switched back to recall how Haruki had begged her to get back with him just a few days ago, stating that he couldn't live without her and to give him another chance. At first, she loathed the idea as she didn't want to get hurt again if he does something this time but then she just realized that this was her opportunity to find out whether she still truly loved him and he, with her.

But when he kissed her, she couldn't feel the little tingles and butterflies in her tummy, as compared to the first time they kissed. Back then, she was elated and didn't want it to end. But now, she felt nothing. Haruki used to kiss her so passionately but now the kiss didn't feel like it had any feelings.

Haise appeared in her mind and she thought back to how he kissed her so gently as if he was trying to express his true feelings for her and he also kissed her so passionately as if he hadn't seen her in a year and would die. That was the type of kiss she was looking for. Unfortunately, Haruki didn't have that anymore.

For the remaining of their date, she didn't have the excitement within her nor had the urge to continue it, as compared to what she used to have. Everything seemed dull and she must have been blindly in love to only realize now that Haruki is rude to shops' employees—something she can't overlook as she was once an F&B employee herself—and he only talks about himself in conversation. Haise was genuinely interested in what she had to say, unlike Haruki who brushed her off whenever she opened her mouth. He probably would be nice to employees as well.

In every way, Haise had won over Haruki and she was shocked that over the span of only 1 day, she had come to realize how good of a man Sasaki Haise was. Her eyes burned and heart raced. So the reason she felt so empty and lonely was that she loved Haise? It was why she could never forget about him and craved the warmth and comfort he gave her.

She ended her relationship with Haruki right then and there. Rushing to Haise's house, she prayed she wasn't too late.

—

Touka found herself at his doorstep once again and pressed the doorbell. Instead of Haise who opened it, a woman with long purple hair did. "Good afternoon, are you looking for someone?"

Her voice was shaky all of a sudden. This woman was so beautiful. What was her relationship with him if she was in his house? "I'm looking for Haise."

"Who's at the door, Rize—Touka..."

Haise's eyes widened before realizing how bad this situation looked to Touka. He was a half-naked man in the house—only in his long pants—with Rize—whom Touka does not know. Before she misunderstood, he needed to quickly clear her doubts.

Her face fell at the sight of both of them and she heard her heart breaking into pieces. She was too late, he had already moved on from her and had a beautiful long haired girlfriend. She cursed herself for not realizing her feelings for him earlier and came to see him earlier. Maybe then, she would actually have a chance to be with him.

Tears brimming in her eyes, she needed to leave before she broke down. Stepping back, her voice shook, "I-i see what's going on here, I'm sorry to interrupt."

He quickly grabbed her arm to stop her and she saw the desperation in his eyes. "Wait, Touka, I can explain!"

Rize stepped in to save him. "I'm his ex-girlfriend and no, we're not dating."

He gave her a thankful look and the beautiful lady smiled back to him.

"T-then, why..?" She whispered.

"Come in, and I'll explain." He answered and they all went into the house.

After putting on a shirt and pouring tea for Touka, he settled on the chair opposite of both women and clasped his hands. "It's not what it looked like. I just showered and Rize here suddenly came over, which explains why I wasn't wearing a shirt and she was just visiting to give me something, right?"

Rize nodded. "I'm getting married so I came to invite him to my wedding."

"Yes she was—wait, you're getting married?!" He couldn't believe his ears and had to make sure.

Her brow went up. "Why? Is it that big of a surprise? You didn't think I'd get married, did you?" She teased.

"It's just... I thought you didn't like permanence and so I expected you not to get attached to someone for the rest of your life."

Rize sighed. "I met a man and he made me want to settle down. No offense, Haise. Our relationship was great but I guess we weren't fated to be together."

"No offense taken."

Rize slid a wedding invitation to him then turned to Touka. "You can come as his plus one also if you want. Now then, I've done what I came to do and I'm leaving."

Before she left, she leaned over Touka and whispered, "cherish him, he's boyfriend and husband material, if you ask me. Plus, he's great in bed."

Touka's cheeks warmed.

"Judging from that reaction, I see that you've already done it with him. Oh well, whatever it is between the two of you, I hope you guys fix it."

"Bye, Haise! See you at the wedding!"

The door closed and silence fell.

Touka felt so relieved when she heard that Haise didn't move on from her and that she still had a chance. "Do you still remember what you said to me on the day I left?"

He blinked. "Of course. I asked you to be my girlfriend and that I was willing to wait for as long as it takes even if I had to be number 2 in your heart. I thought about it every day since you left and how I could have phrased it in a different way so that you'd say yes. In the end, I knew that no matter how I phrased it, I would still be rejected because you loved him..." He trailed off, the shine in his eyes disappearing into sadness.

"I dated Haruki again."

He flinched at her sentence and braced himself for the good news. She was going to get back with the guy who cheated on her, or they were going to get married. He didn't like both.

"And I broke up with him for the second time."

"What—why?"

Haise looked down at Touka as she stepped toward with him and cupped his cheeks with a smile. "Because I realized I don't love him anymore, but someone else. Haise... is it too late for me to change my answer to be your girlfriend from no to yes?"

Tears formed in his eyes and he shook his head. "It isn't. What made you change your mind?"

"It was the way he kissed me. He didn't love me anymore nor did I. The kiss had no feelings. I compared it to yours and you kissed me as if you truly loved me and that you would die if I didn't love you back."

He hid back his jealousy that Haruki got to kiss her and instead scratched his nape and laughed nervously. "You caught me. I loved you, and I guess that reflected in my kisses. I probably fell in love with you the moment you woke up in my bed looking ridiculous with your bed hair and your stomach growling like it hasn't had food in a year."

She laughed and wrapped her arms around his neck. "I fell in love with you when I saw you put on your stupid banana boxers."

He leaned his forehead against hers and grinned. "They're nice, you know."

"They're silly." She whispered, breath tickling his face.

Soon, their lips met passionately, and just when she thought their bodies couldn't be any closer, he snaked his arms around her waist and pulled her to him, so close that her breasts pressed up against his chest and her hips met his.

"Tell me why you love me." She said.

Haise twirled a few strands of her hair with his fingers as he gazed into her eyes. "I love the way your hair falls all over your face when you sleep."

"Are you insulting me? And is that it?" She frowned and also sounded disappointed.

"I am not insulting you and I find that cute. I'm not done either." He caressed her cheeks."I love the way your blue eyes shine like the stars at night."

He poked her nose. "I love the way your cute little nose twitches when you're so done with me."

He rubbed his thumb over her soft lips. "I love the way your lips curve into a smile when I tell you one of my jokes."

"I love your competitive side, your emotional side, your sarcastic side, your playful side and everything else. I, Sasaki Haise, have fallen deeply in love with you and I don't regret it."

Touka wanted to cry. He was so sweet. Her fears arose. "Will you promise to not cheat on me? I-i don't think I can survive another cheating incident."

Haise sensed that now was not the time for a joke. She was seriously telling him her insecurities and worries and he needed to reassure her. "I promise. I will never look at another woman except you. If I do, I give you permission to hit me."

She laughed despite the seriousness and leaned on his chest. She felt so happy, warm and cherished in his arms and she believed that he would be the one to make her happy. "Oh, you bet I will. I'll dump your sorry ass too."

— EXTRA —

Haise pouted. "You and Haruki kissed? I don't like that."

She giggled, sending flutters through him. "It was just so I can confirm how I felt about you and Haruki. Are you jealous?"

"I am. I demand compensation." He mumbled, nuzzling into her neck.

Touka grabbed his face and leaned in to kiss the cute, jealous man. "Is this enough, boyfriend?"

Leaning in close, he murmured, "I think I need more to make sure that was real..."

She laughed as he peppered kisses behind her ear lobes and down her neck, making it ticklish. "Haise, stop!"

—

1 year later, Haise proposed to her in a Ferris wheel and they got married 6 months after.

3 years later, Touka gave birth to a daughter named Ichika. Another 3 years later, a baby boy named Kou joined their family of three, making it a family of four.

Thinking back as she looked down at her two sleeping children and one sleeping husband, she never regretted her decision in becoming Haise's girlfriend, for he did what he promised her; never to cheat on her, and to make her the happiest woman in the world.