#and i'm almost ready to wrap up the conference season

[bluedestinybluebird]

[totowlff]

many fade, but i'm still here

➝ you kept your side of the street clean. they will never know what it means.

➝ word count: 2,2k

➝ warnings: mentions of health issues.

➝ author’s note: you can read the part one here.

The young man sitting in front of the reporters looked uncomfortable. Watching him from a corner of the Mercedes motorhome common area, you could tell he wasn’t at ease in that position. However, he needed to get used to the flashes, the clicks, and especially the attention directed at him.

After all, Andrea Kimi Antonelli was now a Formula 1 driver.

— Kimi, how do you feel being officially a Mercedes driver? — a journalist asked.

— It’s an incredible feeling to be announced as a Mercedes driver alongside George in 2025 — the young man replied in a measured tone — It’s a dream I’ve had since I was little, and even though I’m still learning a lot, I feel ready for this opportunity.

“Of course you do”, you thought to yourself, crossing your arms over your chest. The tests with Kimi had been numerous, with various types of single-seaters, all to make sure of what you had known since the day you first saw him in Lonato del Garda, back in 2018.

— I want to thank the team for the support they've given me in my career so far and for the faith they’ve shown in me — the young man added, scanning the crowd of people present. His eyes finally landed on you — If it wasn’t for the trust Y/N and Toto placed in me, I wouldn’t be here, living this dream.

Your lips curled into a smile as you nodded in acknowledgment of the new driver’s words. Handing him over to Mercedes had been a desperate move on your part, made in the face of Ferrari’s stunning refusal to bring Kimi onboard, contradicting everything discussed in the previous meetings before his visit to Maranello.

However, you couldn’t live with yourself knowing you had crushed the dreams of such a talented boy like Kimi. He deserved that chance, and if you couldn’t give it to him, let Mercedes be the team to do so.

— Toto, what are your impressions of this new duo, which we could say is the first composed of athletes from the Mercedes academy? — a blonde woman asked.

— Our new pairing is perfect to open the next chapter of our history. It’s also proof of the strength of our junior driver program and our belief in homegrown talent — the team principal replied, turning to the young man next to him with a smile — Kimi has consistently demonstrated the talent and speed necessary to compete at a high level in our sport.

Placing a hand on the driver’s shoulder, you noticed there was a certain pride in Toto’s voice, as well as in his expression. And, in a way, it was justified, considering all the energy and resources invested in Kimi’s development. Toto was seeing, right there in that room, that he had made the right choice once again.

— George, could you share your thoughts on your new teammate? — an older journalist asked, hand raised — What can we expect from this partnership?

— I’m excited to have him as my teammate. His results in junior competitions are impressive, and his promotion is completely deserved — the Brit responded — He’s a fantastic young talent and has also been part of our driver academy. I hope I can use my own experience to help him in this step into Formula 1.

“I have no doubt you will”, you thought, searching for Kimi with your eyes. It was impossible not to notice how anxious he seemed. His attention shifted between the two men beside him and the beaded bracelet on his wrist, almost tiny compared to the team watch. It was easy to forget that he was just an 18-year-old boy — newly turned 18, in fact — taking his first steps into adulthood.

The press conference continued smoothly, with the occasional light-hearted comment from Toto, clearly trying to help Kimi relax in front of all those people. But you knew it wasn’t easy, even for someone older and more seasoned in these environments, like yourself.

When Bradley wrapped up the press conference, you noticed Kimi exhale in relief, as if trying to release all the tension. As the journalists left the motorhome, you approached the young man, who was listening attentively to Toto.

— Nice answers, kid — you said, placing a hand on his shoulder. When he realized it was you, he smiled.

— Did I do well?

— Really well. A true Mercedes driver.

A little chuckle escaped his lips.

— I’m glad you liked it, Mrs. Wolff — Kimi replied, making your cheeks warm up.

— For you, it’s Y/N, okay? No ‘Mrs. Wolff’.

— Is there something wrong with my last name, Mrs. Wolff? — Toto asked, raising an eyebrow.

— No, I just think he should call me the same as always.

— Kimi’s just being respectful to my wife — he retorted, moving closer to you and slipping a hand around your waist.

It was still surreal to you. The night after the unexpected meeting you’d had at the hotel bar, you two had gone out for dinner. But, unlike what you had expected, Toto had turned the supposed negotiation for a position in the driver academy management into something more intimate and personal. The exchanged glances and suggestive comments had eventually turned into a kiss at the end of the night, as well as an invitation for another dinner, this time in Monaco.

It didn’t take long before you ended up in his bed, as well as on the Mercedes payroll. Maurizio had tried, but Toto had already convinced you to leave Ferrari behind and dive headfirst into his project, both for the young drivers and for your lives together.

The marriage was a natural step, taking place in an intimate ceremony in Sardinia two years later. Before Toto and a dozen guests, you became Y/N Wolff to the world. But that didn’t mean you had stopped being responsible for the boys and girls in the junior categories.

— Before that, I’m the development advisor for this team’s young drivers.

— Well, it was more or less at the same time — Toto muttered, making you shake your head.

— You’re not helping, Torger.

— Damn — he replied, causing everyone around to burst into laughter.

The conversation went on for a few more minutes before Bradley invited the four of you to head up to the terrace of the motorhome to take some more pictures and record a few interviews for the company’s official channels. However, while Toto was being photographed talking to Kimi, you felt your phone vibrate.

"Your results are available," read the subject of the email you had just received.

Pressing your lips together, you unlocked your phone and clicked on the envelope icon on the screen. There was a strange tension building in your shoulders, a sense of anticipation you knew you shouldn’t have, especially considering what the tests you’d taken were about.

The discomfort you had been feeling over the last few weeks had led you to schedule an appointment with your general practitioner before leaving for Monza. It seemed to be just a severe cold, likely due to the sudden temperature changes during your travels. However, he had you take some basic blood tests to ensure there was nothing wrong.

As you read through the sequence of complicated names, "normal levels" and "negative," one title made you roll your eyes. "Why a pregnancy test?", you wondered as you scrolled down. It was obvious that would never happen — the malformation in your uterus, discovered when you were a teenager, had ended any possibility of you having your own family.

Until a single underlined word made your heart skip.

You felt the blood drain from your head, leaving only the echo of your pulse pounding in your ears. Air seemed not to reach your lungs, no matter how hard you tried to breathe. Your legs felt weak, as did the rest of your body.

— Y/N! — you heard someone shout before everything went dark.

When you opened your eyes again, there was no sun or clouds above you, only a gray ceiling and a fluorescent light. On your left side, a man in a white coat, apparently a circuit doctor, was checking your blood pressure with a serious expression, while someone outside your line of sight was stroking your head.

— Where... I — you mumbled, trying to get your bearings.

— I’m here, my love, I’m here — Toto said, leaning in to look at you. His eyes were filled with concern.

You blinked a few times as your husband murmured something you didn’t pay attention to. The words you had read on your phone’s screen were burned into your mind, echoing back and forth in your head.

The doctor removed the blood pressure cuff and slung it around his neck.

— It seems to be due to the heat — he said, looking first at the team principal and then at you — It’s important to stay hydrated and avoid being outside during the hottest hours.

You opened your mouth to respond, but Toto was quicker.

— Yes, we’ll be more careful about that, won’t we, my love?

You couldn’t speak. You just nodded, still a bit dazed. The doctor also recommended getting you something to eat to help you recover, which Toto assured would be done right away.

After the doctor left the room, you stared at the ceiling for several long seconds in silence, trying to process everything that had just happened. Sitting beside you, your husband brushed a strand of hair away from your face, his worry still evident.

— Are you feeling better? — Toto asked softly.

— Yes — you replied — Did I faint?

He nodded.

— Everyone was scared. No one realized you weren’t feeling well before — the team principal said — If it hadn’t been for Rosa, you might’ve hit your head on the ground, and it could’ve been much worse, but the doctor said it was the heat...

Toto’s words were lost in the whirlwind of thoughts swirling in your head. Seeing him talk about what had happened, the care he was taking with the situation, filled your chest with something warm and familiar.

— It wasn’t the heat — you murmured.

— What? But the doctor said...

— Toto, I got the results from those tests I took on Monday.

He blinked, processing the information for a few seconds.

— Is it serious?

You smiled gently.

— We’ll find out in nine months.

The concern on Toto’s face turned to shock. His mouth dropped open, and he hesitated for a few moments before asking the question you had been waiting so long to answer.

— Are you... Pregnant?

— Yes — you finally said, with tears streaming down your temples.

A disbelieving laugh escaped his lips, his brown eyes shining with emotion.

— But how? You told me about your malformation, the nearly zero chance of conceiving naturally, the whole issue with treatment and risk...

— I know, I know, but I did the test and... Oh my God — you paused, trying to take in the enormity of the moment. After years of dreaming about something you could never have, trying to heal that pain with your work in junior categories, you were going to fulfill the desire that had so often brought you to tears before sleep.

— We’re going to have a baby, Y/N — Toto said, as if he knew the affirmation that was repeating itself in your mind.

Nodding, you placed your hands on your husband’s face and pulled him into a sweet kiss, just like everything that was about to come into your lives. A life of diapers, toys, and a love you had never stopped wishing for, not even for a second.

You were still hugging when you heard a knock on the door. After being invited in, a pair of familiar brown eyes peeked through the gap.

— Toto — Kimi said quietly. When the team principal looked at him, the young man hesitated — Are you crying? Did something happen? Is Y/N okay?

You smiled, sitting up slowly on the sofa.

— Yes, I’m fine — you replied, wiping your nose, sniffling.

— You’re both crying — he noted.

— It’s just that we got some news — Toto began, sitting beside you.

You noticed Kimi’s expression shift to something resembling concern, his lips pressed into a thin line.

— And what is it?

You and Toto exchanged glances with a shadow of a smile on your lips.

— Well, we weren’t supposed to say anything just yet, but I guess it’s okay if it’s you...

Kimi moved closer and crouched in front of you, resting an arm on the side of the sofa.

— Is it bad?

— No, dear, it’s not — you replied, looking to the team principal, giving him a cue to continue.

— It’s just that Y/N is expecting a baby.

His eyes widened.

— Sei serio? — he asked in Italian.

Nodding, you confirmed the news.

— Cazzo, that’s amazing! — Kimi exclaimed, breaking into a wide grin before pulling you into a tight hug.

— No swearing, Kimi — you said, pulling away from him — You know you can’t say things like that, especially now.

— Sorry, mamma — he replied playfully. Your nurturing attitude toward the junior drivers had never gone unnoticed by them. Your care and attention, even off the track, had made you a safe harbor, not to mention a maternal figure. It wasn’t unusual for one of them to be at your house, whether for a quick visit or a weekend before competing at a nearby track.

— She’s right, Kimi, you need to watch your language. You have to be a good example for the younger ones — Toto said, placing a hand on your belly — Especially now.

— I will, you can count on it — the young man replied, with the enthusiasm of someone who had just found out he was going to have a younger sibling.

And you couldn’t wait to see him embrace that role.

[jellycrusher]

Wolves and Lambs: Part 1

Alpha Max Verstappen x Omega fem!driver

Genre: Series, Omega verse, Enemies to Lovers, Romance, Eventual smut

Synopsis: Male Alphas are the ones who dominate motor sports all around the world, especially Formula 1. It is a well known fact. Females in general nor Female Omegas are never heard nor encouraged to join the sport since the 1950s. Well, up until now...

Word Count: 2.4k

Chapter's Premise: "How could I forget? The reckless rookie during FP1. Almost crashed into me."

Parts: W&L masterlist / general masterlist

"How does it feel to be the only female alpha here on the grid?" The reporter extends his mic to you during the last press conferences on the last F2 Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi.

Here we go again. "It doesn't feel any different. Everybody here puts out their all when racing and I do that too. Outside of race week, I could say that they're like my younger brothers. It's fun."

"Congratulations again for your promotion to Formula 1 for the next season. Do you have any expectations? Any goals coming in to next year?" At least this reporter is not sexist unlike the others.

"I have been the test driver for Aston Martin for almost two years now. I'm grateful that I've been given the seat alongside Fernando Alonso. Any expectations? I've seen how hard everyone works back in the factory. I hope we develop a better race-winning car. My goal is definitely to win a Grand Prix." You can't help but smile at the thought that your next career move is inching closer and closer now.

"Thank you very much. That's y/n y/l/n, everyone. Your 2023 F2 World Champion." You bid goodbye to the reporter while your Press Officer ushers you to the next reporter.

After your meeting with the Aston Martin Team, your assistant tugs your shirt to signal you to walk to Mike Krack, the team principal.

"Here comes our favorite female driver!" He enthusiastically opens up his arms to welcome you in a tight hug. "Are you ready for the next season?"

"All good. I'm itching to jump in the car and drive." You chuckle as he release you from the hug.

"Hello sir. I just would like to go through something with you." Megan, your assistant, clears her throat which caught the attention of your new team principal. "I just informed y/n that you are aware of her true classification. I want to know how do we handle it from here."

You freeze in your spot as you observe Mike's face. It was astounding that your team principal is still very much determined to add you to the lineup despite knowing that you are not an Alpha, rather an Omega. He assures that he didn't care about it but what he looks for in a driver is talent, grit, and passion.

All your former team in F3 and F2 were never made aware of this fact, even until now. You never had a problem with this secret since your heat haven't arrived yet. At 25, you were considered a very late-bloomer, Normally, one would have their first heat at around 17-20 years old. If you were asked, you prefer it to never arrive at all. Better that way, at least it won't affect you during your races if ever it comes unexpectedly.

Ultimately, you had to force your manager to be upfront with Mike Krack. She was hesitant at first but you knew it was inevitable. The first one is always unpredictable and is affected by your emotions. It's better if your contract stays intact and won't be affected by it.

"We'll keep it under wraps. Limit the people within our team. I know a few people in the media so if this gets out, we can control it. I'll do everything that I can to keep a talent such as yours." Mike pats your back as he noticed you keeping quiet at Megan's side.

It's a wonder that you were able to keep it a secret up until now. It's not that it's forbidden to have Omegas as drivers in motorsport. There were a few male Omegas and only one female Omega before. She drove for one season and retired on the next. It was a very brief stint. Since then, no female omegas were ever able to climb up to Formula 1. Well, not until you but it's a secret. For now.

Of course you want to make a name for yourself. Not just being the first female driver since the 50s but a female Omega. It's something to be proud of. Although, majority of the people are still against it and will surely doubt your talent before they even see it.

Most of the people in the paddock that are either managers, mechanics, presenters, race engineers, and PR officers are almost all Betas and a few are only Omegas; just to name a few. The drivers and team principals are almost entirely Alphas.

You remember Megan mentioned that two of the drivers on the 2024 grid are Omegas but you forgot the names. Well, she also painfully reminded you to keep your classification a secret from them so forgetting who's who is not actually a bad thing.

Back in your F3 and F2 days, whenever Alpha drivers would argue with each other and get rowdy, you could literally feel the effects within you. Shivers down to your spine, tightening chest, trembling hands. Used to having that kind of physical effect on you during those situations, you would just avoid any altercations with any of them.

You were dubbed "The Lamb" of the paddock, being the calm and collected driver out of all of them. In contrast to your nickname, you were like a wolf when you put on the helmet. You would obliterate every driver during every race, herding them to the side.

"I look forward racing alongside our new driver." You, Megan, and Mike swiftly turned your head towards one direction. The sight of the Spanish driver smiling made you freeze. "I've seen your lap times during one of the test drives at Silverstone. It's been the talk of the factory. You almost beat Max's record lap time on the track."

He's definitely an Alpha. The Alpha aura that the two time world champion exudes is definitely nerve-racking. Any other Omega should've felt this when they met him, for sure. It's good that you're used to being around Alphas that it's not obvious in your body language that you were affected.

You bumped fists with Alonso. "Let's not forget the impression you left on the other drivers on FP1 back in Abu Dhabi GP when 11 rookies joined the practice for the Driver Development Program. You drove my AMR23 like a beast and you were the only rookie who was able to put their car in the top 10. In P3, at that." Alonso chuckles, reminding him how the team radios of other drivers went when you were passing them on the track, as broadcasted.

"Thank you sir. Just wanted to show everyone who they might compete against." you replied.

"Oh you most definitely did." he smirks.

It was a comfortable welcome within Aston Martin. Even Lance Stroll, who took a break from Formula 1 to recover from his injuries due to a career-changing incident, worked with you and Alonso to work out the kinks in the car. Being the son of Lawrence Stroll, he won't leave his son out in Formula 1 in any kind of way. Plus, Lance is a familiar face back in karting days so his presence actually helps.

Days pass and it all felt like a blur. You were practically living in the factory when you made certain to be as hands-on as possible with the development of the car. When you sat in the car for almost 2 hours for the seat fitting, Megan basically bribed the other engineers to let you rest for once. The other employees nearby were laughing because Megan was pushing the other engineers away that you were hollering to come to you.

Come February, the day of the AMR24 reveal. It was the first event where you donned your green race suit in front of everyone. In the backstage, Fernando could notice the tenseness painting your face. Lance was also there with you two waiting. He smacked your back so hard that you almost cursed at him, warranting a loud laugh from Fernando.

The welcoming party for the F1 teams was held in Bahrain on the third week of February, just a few days before pre-season testing. Lance and Fernando accompanied you to a ballroom decorated elegantly from the floor to the ceiling where waiters are walking around to give hors d'oeuvres and champagne to people basically in dapper suits and sparkling dresses at every turn. F1 events never disappoint.

You gently push Lando and Fernando to leave you and to go mingle with sponsors and other people they know. Laughing at how close you got to the two drivers just after a few months of working with them. Fernando felt like a mentor and a father, while Lance felt like an annoying brother.

Multiple Alphas gathering in one venue is hurting your nose and making your head spin. As a temporary refuge, you occupy an empty seat at the bar and ordered an Amaretto Sour. It didn't take you two sips before somebody with a mild Alpha scent sits next to you. You look at the man through your periphery. Unruly hair so brown with soft curls and a gummy smile.

"Nervous on your first event?" he says, sliding his drink close to him after the bartender hands it out.

"Hm?" You swiftly turn your head at the man, still taking a sip from your drink.

"You're y/n, right? Aston Martin? I'm Lando Norris. I'm just wondering why a gorgeous woman like you is alone here at the bar?" he replies.

"Nice to meet you!" You offer your hand out to the Mclaren Driver and he shakes it. "Big events like this is not my thing. I'm just charging up my social battery right now. Fernando and Lance will likely pull me later to meet with our sponsors." You add while taking another sip to help mask the overwhelming scent of the venue.

"Tell me about it. It's an introvert's worse nightmare." Another man with an Australian accent pops up beside Lando, wrapping his arm on the man's shoulder. "I'm Oscar Piastri. Nice to meet you!"

Lando and Oscar turns out to be such a fun company to be with. They even introduced you to some of the drivers that were not so busy socializing with VIPs and sponsors; like Yuki Tsunoda, Daniel Ricciardo, Pierre Gasly, Esteban Ocon, Alexander Albon, and Logan Sargeant.

Lando was about to call Charles and Max when he spotted them from afar but you were quickly pulled away by Lance to do some rubbing shoulders with your team's sponsors.

"Hey! Why did you call me?" Charles pats Lando's back then proceeds to greet the others gathered around at the bar.

"I was going to introduce you to someone but Lance swept her away." Lando scoffs as he greets Max, who appeared behind Charles.

Max and Charles search the crowd for Lance and eventually spots the man with a gorgeous girl at his side in an emerald green long dress. "Remember the driver who got P3 in FP1 when we were in Abu Dhabi?" says Lando to the two men staring at your side profile while you were busy smiling and mingling with older men.

"Y/n Y/l/n, right? Aston Martin?" Charles said, still can't peel his eyes away from you.

"How could I forget? The reckless rookie during FP1. Almost crashed into me." Max sneers, turns back at the bar and orders a drink.

"Come on mate. Like you were not? You were too aggressive at that FP1. You drove like you were racing with us already. Even overtaking at the pit lane exit." Charles lightly slapped his hand on Max's chest, earning a laugh from him and Lando.

"Still. At the end of the day, she was too eager to prove herself that it came off as reckless." Max takes the drink that he ordered and turns back around to his fellow drivers.

"Come on, you were like that when we were young. Remember our inCHIdent?" Charles, Lando, and even Pierre and Alex laughed so hard at the mention of the adorable memory of Charles and Max's rivalry when they were young.

"Maybe you're just nervous that someone might be able to finally de-throne you from your seat, your majesty?" Lando chuckles.

"We'll see at the pre-season testing if she's all bark and no bite." says Max, staring at you like you're a lamb in a wolf hunt.

"The new season of Formula 1 is just around the corner. But before the lights go out in Bahrain, you'll see all teams hit the track in three rigorous pre-season testing days. It's the first chance to see how this season is shaping up."

It was so surreal to see your driver number 13 in big font on the side of your AMR24. This is the dream and it all starts with the pre-season testing. With only just one car per team to be allowed per day, it was decided that you will drive on the first and second day, and Fernando on the third day.

You could say that it was a bit difficult on the first day. The car was superb and fast, except for the porpoising. After driving almost 150 laps with all the porpoising and understeer, your back felt like cracked uncooked noodles. The makeshift bed in your room in the garage basically inviting you to sprawl down on it. Thankfully, the car got better on the second day.

Everyone was so busy to improve everything on the car that you barely mingled with anyone outside of your team. Even on the third day where Fernando was out on track, you were still discussing with the engineers on what to improve and what strategies to use on the first race in Bahrain a week from now.

After the pre-season testing, Megan made sure to empty out at least two days in your schedule to give you a break. You woke up at around 11 am and went down to the hotel lounge to spend some time reading. Oscar was about to go to the hotel restaurant but stopped when he saw you.

"What are you reading?" You looked up behind you when you heard a voice and saw Oscar in casual clothes.

"Nothing. Just something to pass the time." You replied as Oscar takes up the couch beside you. "Are you about to have lunch?"

"Yeah. Just waiting for Lando." said Oscar, keeping his eyes on you. Oscar paused for a moment, contemplating on continuing his train of thought. "I'm curious so I'm just gonna ask it now."

"What?" you ask, closing your book.

"Why are you hiding that you are an Omega?"

Next part: Part 2

[heresathreebee]

A Halo of Holly

Marcus Moreno X Black!reader (1940s AU)

Summary: you can’t help falling in love with your neighbor who happens to be a fellow single parent (and unbeknownst to you, a superhero, too). 

Masterlist Part 2

Word Count: 1.3k words

Warning(s): rated T (for now), barely edited (no beta but myself), fluffy Christmas stuff, transatlantic speech, you’ve got your son’s dad’s last name despite never having married him, mild language, inappropriate thoughts

December 19th marks the beginnings of the Christmas season for most families in Holly's Grove. As the menorah's came down from some of the apartment windows, wreaths and lights went up, the holiday decorations turned white and red and green in celebration of that special time at the end of the year. The residents of Holly cleaned out their chimneys, dusted their boots of snow just outside the front door, and tuned into whatever channel was playing It's A Wonderful Life and Miracle on 34th Street on the television set. 

Except for you, of course. 

Your rooms were decorated just the way you liked it, all except for the lights and the tree. You sat on the floor inspecting each and every bulb on the string for the faulty wire while Billie Holiday's Christmas specials played on the gramophone. The wood from the fire was finally dry enough to light and the warmth eked its way slowly through to your bones. 

"Damn things," you cursed. 

You dropped the lights in a huff and leaned forward. You've got two options, girl, you thought. Buy some new ones or get some help. But who could you call for help with a broken light at a time like this? 

~

Across the delightfully inviting alley, Marcus Moreno let his daughter adjust the television settings. Missy groaned as her favorite movie came to an end, but perked up when yet another toy commercial came on. He chuckled as she pointed excitedly at the screen, and he tried to pretend to be too busy making dinner. That's when a knock came at the door. 

Dumm dum-duh-dum dumm. 

Missy stood on the couch cushions, but her father waved her down to sit. "I'll get it." 

He opened the door. A rush of freezing cold air and the gentle swinging wood revealed his (second) favorite face: yours. Wrapped in nothing protective except a scarf and shivering in your boots. 

"Come in, come in!" He waved you inside and shut the door, mindful of his daughter with her head turned like an owl's. "Well, you must be frozen solid!" 

You laughed despite your chattering teeth. "I suppose I didn't think to grab a coat since you were so close, but on the way, why it felt like I walked a mile to get here." 

"Silly thing," he chided. His hands rubbed up and down your bare arms, coaxing his warmth into you. Your shivering only worsened and you had half a mind to drag him closer and wrap him into a hug. Almost. "What did you walk through all that snow in next to nothing for?" 

Oh I'd love to see you in next to nothing. "Oh just this." 

You pulled the lights around from behind your back and put your head down in embarrassment. "I plugged it in and the whole thing won't light. They worked just fine last year, but I can't find the busted part…" 

"Let me take a look." The way Mr. Moreno's face turned hard as rock as he focused on something never failed to make your toes curl in your shoes. "Why don't you sit down and get comfortable. Missy? Stir that pot for me, will you?" 

Your embarrassment came clawing up your back again. "Oh I'm so sorry, if I'd've known I was interrupting your dinner, I would have waited until tomorrow!" 

"Nonsense," Mr. Moreno waved it off and took the lights to his work bench, "we both know Dave isn't going to let you put anything else up after tonight." 

You harrumphed onto the couch knowing he was right. Dave was running the homeowner's association since his wife was sick, and in a lot of ways he was worse than she was. All decorations had to be put up by the 20th or they wouldn't be allowed to go up at all. He had always hated that the Peabody's seemed to acquire something new and shiny every night until Christmas and now he had the authority to do something about it. 

"For a Christmas lover, he sure can be a grinch about the details," you said, and preened at Missy's merry giggle. 

You felt strange sitting there in that house. Missy was one of your students, her father never missed a parent-teacher conference, and yet you felt you knew more about them after you had realized you were neighbors. Perhaps one day, this place might feel like a second home. The Morenos’ certainly seemed to want you to feel that way. 

"Sauce is ready!," Missy called. 

Mr. Moreno stood up from his desk and dropped his tools, taking the pot off the stove top and shooing his daughter away with a conspiratorial whisper. The little angel bounced towards you, leaning in a little too close and asking if you'd like to have dinner with them. 

"Oh," you start to protest, "oh no, dear that wouldn't be…" wouldn't be what? Appropriate? You were already in their house asking for free repairs. An unmarried woman in a man's house. The rumor mill was already churning so why try to save face now? "Oh, alright then." 

The first bite of the Moreno's dish nearly had you swooning to the floor. You slap a hand over your mouth just in case you start drooling. It's an explosion of flavors and it's so warm sliding down your throat. You can even feel a tear or two prick up in your eyes. 

"Oh Mr. Moreno, this is wonderful," you praised the man who tried to bury his head and hide his blush. 

"It'd be nothing without the help of my second chef," he motioned to Missy. "She knows all the herbs and spices for a good sauce and she stirs like a champion." 

Little Missy beamed like a star. And how could she not with praise so readily given. You purposefully take one forkful at a time to pace yourself and enjoy the meal and the company. After helping clean up in the kitchen, Mr. Moreno comes back to you with your lights. He plugs the cord into the outlet and…

"Voila!" 

Golden white light fills the space between you and you cheer. "Which one was it? Where was the line broken?" 

"Here," he points to the wire between the sixth and seventh bulb. He sees the frustration from earlier mar your happy face and he bends down to get you to meet his eyes. "It's one light in a hundred, I missed it once or twice when I was looking at it, too." 

You take the string from him (neatly coiled for easy carry unlike when you had brought it to him earlier) and planted a lightning quick kiss on his jaw. "Thank you, Mr. Moreno, you're a real Johnny-on-the-spot." 

He shifted his feet and seemed pleased with himself. "You can call me Marcus. It's only fitting since we live so close and all. And, you know, you are Missy's favorite teacher." 

"It's true," the girl yelled from the countertop. Her father picked her up and set her on her feet to start getting ready for bed. "Goodnight, Mrs. Jones!" 

"Goodnight, dear!" 

You're back in your home as quickly as you can be, Mr. Moreno hot on your trail to make sure you get in safe. He offers to help you put up the lights, but you decline firmly. You can see Mrs. Aldridge looking at you from out of her window and you know exactly what she'll tell people if she sees him come through your door. 

"I really must thank you again Mr. Moreno," you say, "I'd be at it all night just to get these things right." 

"It's no trouble at all," he says, and then, boldly, with a cautious but telling smirk, he calls you by your name. 

Your breath catches in your throat and you smile. "Goodnight, Marcus." 

Author’s Note: do you want to be tagged in future pedro pascal fics of mine? let me know in the comments! 

[thedetectivessay]

Update: (We're almost done! 😭) Busted S3 has reportedly wrapped up production last week!

Guys, I don't know about you, but I'm sooo excited for the next phase. Besides editing (and you know the PDs and the editors always nail this part), we'll also have photoshoots and shoots for promotional material such as promo pics and YT videos. And, and, AND - when the season premieres, we'll (hopefully) get another press conference for our detectives.

I'm so ready for new material to play with. Last season, Netflix went all out with the advertisement. It'll be so exciting to see what they have up their sleeves this time 😁

[keith1001]

I grew up watching Lakers and Kobe Bryant. Starting when I was 4, I’ve seen Kobe grow from a rookie to a Hall-of-Famer. I’ve watched him become the youngest player ever to be drafted in the NBA. I saw him air-balled 4 shots in 5 minutes against the Jazz in the Playoffs. I remember that was his first game that made me idolize him. Failure after failure, he still pushed through the game. Years of following and watching his games, I finally saw him become the youngest player to start in the All-Star Game.

Shaquille O’Neal was acquired from the Magic to reborn the Lakers dynasty in the late 1990 and early 2000. The Shaq-Kobe duo became unbeatable. In 2000, they finished the season best in the league. Being up 3-1 against the Blazers team during the West Finals. I thought they almost blew it! They were down by 15 points entering the 4th quarter of Game 7. I was ready to accept they’ve already lost. Then the famous Kobe to Shaquille lob happened! As they say, it’s not over until it’s over. They came back and beat the Blazers on his way to his 1st ever championship.

Kobe became part of the 1st team to ever swept the Western conference playoffs (11-0) in 2001, and to be the greatest team in the NBA Playoffs (15-1) by beating Allen Iverson and the Sixers.

Then in the next playoffs, they were down 2-1, and down 24 points against the powerhouse Kings in Game 4 with me thinking that the Lakers’ back-to-back championship is about to end. And then Robert Horry saves the day—a shot I and any Laker fan will never forget! Lakers’ force decided Game 7 beating the Kings at Sacramento in overtime. During the championship series, they swept the New Jersey Nets to wrap up the 3-peat.

Coming from 3 great years for the Lakers, they were eliminated by the Spurs in 2003 to end their championship run. As the commentator says, it is a game that is “tough for them to swallow.” And for me, too—even shedding tears seeing them lose the game.

Favored to win in it all in 2004 by acquiring Karl Malone and Gary Payton, Lakers was upset by Pistons. I thought to myself, what could have gone wrong? They were basically a powerhouse. Seeing them lose was definitely painful and disappointing. That same year, Shaquille left LA which started the speculation that Kobe Bryant can’t win a championship without Shaq.

Jumping to 2006—arguably his best season individually, Kobe outscored the Mavs after three quarters 62 (individual score) vs 61 (Mavs’ team score). Weeks after, he achieved the 2nd highest points in NBA history scoring 81 points against the Raptors. Lakers battled the Suns in the playoffs in which Kobe made his game-tying basket in Game 4 to send the game to overtime. To me that is arguably his best game-winning shot of his career despite losing in the series and on the next.

In 2008, Lakers acquired the star player of Memphis Grizzlies—Pau Gasol. Many says he is the missing piece to help Kobe win a title. True enough, Kobe won his 1st season MVP despite losing to Celtics by 39 points in closeout game during the finals.

Then the year everybody was waiting for: Kobe won his 1st championship without Shaquille O’neal in 2009. I remember vividly that I missed school just to watch Game 5 and watch Kobe win championship again after 7 years! Kobe finally casted his shadow away from Shaq.

Coming from their loss in 2008, Lakers won against the Celtics in Game 7, earning his final ring. A sweeter victory coming back from a 2-3 deficit in the series.

Lakers’ championship comeback was put to a halt when they lost to the Mavs in 2011. In my mind this could be Kobe’s final run for a championship.

Promising the Lakers in 2013 that whatever happens they will make the playoffs, Kobe hit 3 threes in the final 2 minutes to force overtime against Toronto. The crowd went wild! And in fulfilling his promise, he suffered from an Achilles injury but not without making 2-free throws before leaving the game. He ended his season with an average of 25pts, 5rebs and 5asts per game.

After missing most of the previous year, in 2014 he returned but suffered a season-ending knee injury. So it remains uncertain if he has scaled the mountain that is his torn Achilles tendon. He logged just 177 minutes in six games, averaging 13.8 points, 6.3 assists and 5.7 turnovers.

On November 29, 2015, Kobe announced on The Players' Tribune website that he will retire after the season, writing that "this season is all I have left to give." In his Oscar-winning short film titled "Dear Basketball," he said that the sport "gave a six-year-old boy his Laker dream. And I'll always love you for it. But I can't love you obsessively for much longer. This season is all I have left to give. My heart can take the pounding. My mind can handle the grind but my body knows it's time to say goodbye. And that's OK. I'm ready to let you go."

While the Warriors were setting records (73-9) on that same night, all I wanted was to watch Kobe Bryant go for 50… and he scored 60 wrapping up his Hall of Fame career.

And to all the 80’s 90’s kids out there, Stop comparing! Just be thankful and enjoy the moment that we get the chance to watch MJ, Kobe and Bron in their prime!

Kobe, thank you for inspiring me as a person since I was 4-years old.

Thank you for your inspirational work ethics.

Thank you for allowing the world to watch greatness every night.

Thank you for your encouraging words you’ve given us.

Thank you for showing us what hard work is not just in basketball but in life.

Thank you for giving us the blueprint on how to be great in what we want.

Everybody is waiting for your Hall of Fame speech.

Thank you for MAMBA MENTALITY

It’s been a tough week! I don’t know when I’ll be able to get over this! But knowing Kobe, he wants me—or us to push through!

I LOVE YOU KOBE!!!

[leahlisabeth]

“I didn’t lose it, I just misplaced it.” I'm honestly thinking of Viktor somehow losing/misplacing his (wedding) ring and panicking trying to find it before Yuri notices.

“Viktor, we’re going to be late!”  Yuuri shouted from the entryway.  His shoes were already on and he’d been ready to go for at least a half hour.  Victor was definitely a last minute dresser but this was ridiculous.

“You had better be clothed,” Yuuri called as he stalked into the living room.  “Yuri is waiting for us in the cab and if we have a quickie he will know.”

“Yuri is not a child.  His tantrums do not frighten me,” Viktor scoffed from where he was draped over the back of the couch.  Yuuri took a moment to appreciate the view before shaking his head and focusing.

“Right, you have no shame, I know, but I have a very healthy sense of shame and I hate it when Yuri knows what we…” Yuuri blushed to the roots of his hair.  “What are you doing then?”

Viktor popped up immediately, his face bright red and his normally sleek hair sticking every which way from static.  “Nothing.  Aren’t we late?”

Yuuri looked at his watch again and grabbed Viktor’s right hand and started pulling him to the door.  “We can put your tie on in the car.”

“But…” Viktor protested but he was already on his way out the door.

Yuuri hated press conferences and would much rather be anywhere else.  But the new season had begun and the figure skating world had been turned on its head, first by Yuuri’s first gold medal in a competition against his coach/boyfriend, pushing Viktor down to silver by a mere 0.02 points, and then by the Nikiforov/Katsuki wedding that had occurred less than 24 hours later.

It went by in a blur.  Yuuri could only hope he hadn’t said anything too embarrassing.  He clutched Viktor’s right hand tightly under the table, leaving Viktor to gesture wildly with his left hand.

He didn’t feel like he could breath until he was safely at home again and tucked into bed with Viktor at his back, wrapped around him like an octopus.  “Where’s your ring?” he asked sleepily from inside the circle of Viktor’s arms.

Viktor stilled for a moment.  Yuuri almost turned to look at his new husband.  “It’s in the bathroom,” Victor blurted.  “I’m trying a new hand lotion and I didn’t want to dull the finish.”

Yuuri nodded and drifted off to sleep.

In the morning, he reached for his phone upon awakening but it wasn’t there.  He peered over the edge of the bed to see if it had fallen on the floor but it wasn’t there.  Viktor was gone too which was unusual because Yuuri was usually the one to wake up first.

He wandered out into the living room in his pajamas only to stop in shock.  The place was torn apart.  Viktor had moved every picture, trophy, and medal on their extensive shelving.  The carpet was rolled up in the corner.  Viktor had even unzipped the couch cushions and the filling was spilling out on the floor.

“Did you lose something?” Yuuri asked.

Viktor jumped about a foot in the air before shouting, “Yuuri! You take that back.  I’ve never lost a single thing in my entire life!”

“What about the remote last week, or Makkachin’s collar yesterday,” Yuuri sighed.

“I don’t remember this.  Lies, all of it,” Viktor mock swooned onto their stripped couch.

Yuuri put his hand to his forehead.  “Can I interrupt your crisis to ask if you’ve seen my phone?”

“What phone?” Viktor blushed.

“What do you…” Yuuri massaged his forehead.  “Viktor, you know what my phone looks like.”

“No,” Viktor refused to look Yuuri in the face.

Yuuri saw Viktor’s phone lying on the mantelpiece.  “Well, I need to call Yuri to see if I left it in the cab last night.  I’ll just have to borrow yours.”

“Noooooo,” Viktor lunged across the room but he was too late.  Yuuri had unlocked the phone to see that it was open on a tabloid article from early this morning.

TROUBLE IN PARADISE?!!

Nikiforov and Katsuki made their first joint appearance as husbands since their surprise wedding last week.  Many were surprised at the suddenness of the wedding, expressing disbelief that flighty Viktor, famous for being linked to a new supermodel every season, was actually tying himself down, even to a rising star like Yuuri Katsuki.  

It seems that these naysayers were right to worry.  Yuuri was noticeably silent and strained throughout the entire press conference while Viktor was his usual effusive self, taking every opportunity to flaunt his newly ringless finger.

The article continued on but Yuuri had read enough.  “You weren’t wearing your ring?  Why not?”

Viktor blushed even redder and flipped over to bury his face in a deflated cushion.

“Did you lose it?”  Yuuri asked.

“I didn’t lose it, I just misplaced it,” Viktor looked up at Yuuri, his face the picture of abject misery.

Yuuri doubled over and howled with laughter.  

“I thought you would be mad,” Viktor said quietly.  “I know what they say.  They think that you’re just a fling and that I’ll forget you.  And losing the ring this soon after getting married? Everyone is going to think they were right and the truth is that you are the only person for me.  There will never be anyone else.”

Yuuri managed to get his giggles under control before going over to the couch and pulling Viktor to his feet.  “It’s just a ring, Viktor.”  Yuuri placed his hand on Viktor’s chest, feeling his heartbeat under his fingertips.  “This here is what is important.”  Yuuri pulled his husband down into a kiss  “I do not doubt your love.”

Viktor melted into the kiss and after, pushed his forehead into Yuuri’s and just breathed him in for a while.

“Now come on, we’re going to have some coffee and some breakfast, we’ll take another look for your ring, and then we’re going to walk through the park and you have permission to be as sappy and gross as you wish until all these rumours are laid to rest,” Yuuri smiled fondly.

“Hooray!” Victor shouted with heart eyes before kissing his husband again.

Yuuri extricated himself from Viktor’s arms and walked into the kitchen.  He pulled open the fridge door to grab the carton of eggs and he was greeted with the familiar glint of gold.  “Hey, Viktor?  I found your ring!”