#and then afterwards he wipes his hands on the grandpa
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btsqualityy · 2 years ago
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Brielle’s Birth with Sakura
Warnings: giving birth
“Are you sure that you don’t mind watching Seiya for us?” Brielle checked, taking a deep breath afterwards in an effort to manage her contractions. After 39 weeks of pregnancy, Brielle had finally started to feel consistent contractions and once they ramped up, Haru had called Brielle’s parents over to their house. 
“Of course,” Carson huffed playfully. “Seiya and I will get to spend some quality time playing, right?”
“Yes!” Seiya chirped from his place in Carson’s arms, making Brielle coo lightly at him. 
“Alright my love, we’re ready to go,” Haru announced as he and Min-seo came walking down the stairs, a suitcase in Haru’s hand and Brielle’s large pregnancy pillow in Min-seo’s hands. 
“Ok,” Brielle nodded before turning to look at Seiya and holding her hands out. “Come here baby.” Seiya leaned over and allowed Brielle to pick him up, instantly snuggling into her neck once she had him on her hip. “Mama and Daddy have to go now but I’ll see you soon, ok?”
“Baby?” Seiya wondered. 
“Yeah, your sister is ready to come out now,” she replied. “So I need you to be good for Grandpa and do whatever he says, yeah?”
“Ok,” Seiya nodded. “Love Mama!”
“Oh, I love you too baby,” Brielle whispered, pressing multiple kisses to his cheeks as she began to tear up. Sensing her emotions, Haru set the suitcase down and stepped forward, holding his hands out and smiling when Brielle reluctantly passed their son off to him. 
“We’ll be back soon, ok?” Haru assured him. “I love you.”
“Love Daddy!” Seiya giggled as Haru blew a raspberry against his cheek before handing him off to Carson. 
“He’ll be fine, Bri,” Min-seo said, stepping over to her daughter and grabbing her hand. 
“No, I know,” Brielle whimpered. “I’m just emotional. Let’s get going before he sees me crying and refuses to let me go without a tantrum.”
“Lead the way, my love,” Haru smiled softly. 
.............................................................................
“I don’t know if I can do this,” Brielle whimpered as she shook her head back and forth rapidly. 
“Bri, you’ll be fine,” Haru tried to say but Brielle began to whine.
“I’ve never pushed before though!” Brielle huffed. 
“Baby, I know you’re afraid,” Min-seo spoke up as she gently rubbed her daughter’s back. “But your body will take over for you and you won’t even have to question it. Let your instincts guide you.”
“Are you sure?” 
“I’m sure,” Min-seo smiled. “And remember to breathe. You said you wanted a calming birth this time.”
“I do, especially after all the drama with Seiya’s emergency c-section,” Brielle sighed. “I’m sorry for freaking out.”
“No need to apologize, my love,” Haru said. “I know you’re afraid and you have every right to be.”
“I’m excited too though,” she murmured, letting her eyes flutter shut as another contraction wrapped around her pelvis. “We’re gonna have a baby girl.”
“We are,” he nodded. “I hope she looks like you.”
“Really? I want her to look like you and Seiya.”
“I already have my lookalike,” Haru smiled. “You need one.”
“True, especially since I’m the one giving birth to them,” Brielle laughed, however it was cut off by a sharp gasp and her tightening her grip on her husband’s hands. 
“I-I think I might be ready to push,” Brielle announced.
“I’ll go get your doctor,” Min-seo offered, pressing a quick kiss to her daughter’s head before rushing out of the room. 
.............................................................................
“Breathe my love, breathe,” Haru reminded his wife and Brielle nodded, allowing her head to fall back onto his shoulder as she bared down. The pushing process for Brielle had been going seamlessly so far and she was already close to having her daughter’s head out, after only 30 minutes of pushing. 
“You’re doing beautifully Brielle,” the doctor smiled. “Big push.”
“Ok,” Brielle replied before doing exactly that, pushing down as hard as she could. 
“Alright, take a break,” the doctor said. 
“You’re doing so good, baby girl,” Min-seo grinned, taking the damp rag in her hand and wiping away the sweat on Brielle’s forehead. “Almost there.”
“I’m trying but I’m tired,” Brielle sighed heavily. “I just want her out already.”
“And you’re super close to that,” Haru assured her. “Just a little bit longer.”
“Ok,” Brielle nodded. “I feel another contraction coming.”
“Go ahead and push when you’re ready,” the doctor nodded and once that familiar pain wrapped around her pelvis, Brielle took a deep breath before pushing down into her bottom. 
“Great job, great job,” the doctor chuckled. “Here comes the head.”
“Yeah, I can fucking feel it,” Brielle growled as she sat up in order to push down harder. 
“That’s it baby, that’s it,” Haru chuckled, tears welling up in his eyes as he watched his child’s head come out. 
“One last push for shoulders,” the doctor said, gently grabbing the baby’s head and helping to maneuver them out. “And here they are!”
“Finally,” Brielle grumbled as she opened her arms, smiling when the doctor reached up and set the baby onto her chest. “Hello, beautiful. I’m your Mama.”
“Oh, she’s gorgeous Bri,” Min-seo giggled happily.
“Of course she is,” Haru smiled. “She looks like her mama.”
“What are you two going to name her?” Min-seo wondered.
“Sakura,” Brielle answered. “Lee-Kim Sakura.”
“It’s beautiful.”
“Thank you so much Bri,” Haru said and Brielle looked over her shoulder at him. 
“No, thank you,” Brielle smiled, moaning softly when Haru leaned down and kissed her softly.
.............................................................................
“Bri,” Haru called out as he walked into the hospital room with Seiya on his hip. “Look who’s here.”
“Oh, hi my baby,” Brielle giggled, opening her arms and grinning widely when Haru handed Seiya over to her. “Oh, I missed you so much!”
“Miss Mama!” Seiya laughed as Brielle pressed kisses onto his cheeks. 
“Are you ready to meet your sister?” Brielle asked and Seiya nodded his head up and down rapidly. Haru picked Sakura up out of the little plastic bassinet that was placed near Brielle’s bed and sat down next to his wife, holding the baby out a little bit so that Seiya could see her. 
“This is Sakura,” Haru introduced them. 
“Tiny,” Seiya whispered and Brielle felt her heart swell from how Seiya recognized the need for him to be quiet around the baby.
“She is tiny so you’ll have to be a good oppa and look after her, yeah?” Brielle said. 
“Like uncles?” Seiya wondered.
“Yeah, just like uncle Kai and uncle Ash,” she confirmed. 
“I will,” Seiya nodded. “I can!”
“We know buddy,” Haru chuckled before looking up at Brielle. “Well, this is our life now. We have two kids.”
“Crazy, right?” Brielle giggled as Haru nodded. “You’re the only person I would’ve wanted to have them with though.”
“Same here,” Haru smiled. “Aishitemasu.”
“I love you too,” Brielle whispered before leaning over and kissing him firmly. 
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sleepyteamage · 11 months ago
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First time in a long time I've scared myself awake from a dream...
It was a two parter because I know I woke up at some point but anyway. I remember being in a car with a friend and driving down a road with a marsh or swamp that's miles long. I reach a big house in a small suburb, it was a house where the basement was on the ground floor and you had to walk up stairs to reach the first floor.
A ton of people were there, some family but mostly folk I didn't recognize and there was an eeriness to it all. Like everyone was forcibly smiling and being passive aggressive, mostly to me. I stuck by my friend because when I barely recognize anyone it's what I do but she left early, said "Something feels bad here so I'm out" I stayed because I had family there and then I woke up the first time.
I quickly fell back asleep and now it was suddenly night, I had a tour of my bedroom and on my bed was a lot of trash, what stuck out to me was shards of glass and broken bottles all over it. Three kids decided to clean my bed for me and they did but they also smiled the entire time and mostly stared at me. When I noticed one of the kids wiping his hand over glass I tried to say something but nothing came out of my mouth.
I finally managed to utter an, "Uhh" when I noticed a pool of blood starting to form on the bed because the kid sliced his hand from the broken glass. He didn't stop looking at me though and he didn't even react to being hurt. When I looked at his face I noticed blood was coming from a cut on his forehead and a little girl chimed in very happily, "Oh don't worry, that happens all the time" I was disturbed by this.
The last thing I remember before being violently woken up from fear was my grandfather, my dad's father, being there with my aunt and uncles and various strangers. Everyone was being eerily cheery but my grandfather just stood there quiet, looking... Judgy. Like I had done something bad that I hadn't told him but he knew. I remember hugging him for a good long while, crying too. And then after I sat down, I heard screaming and he was on the ground covered in blood. I panicked and got a phone to dial for an ambulance from someone there and then they stopped me and suddenly my grandfather disappeared from the floor and was floating in the air. It was dead silent. No one was talking, I'm pretty sure no one was breathing and the only time they breaked looking at him was to look at me with big ghastly smiles like I'm witnessing a miracle. Only I don't remember feeling like it was a miracle, it just felt like a nightmare.
When he finally came down and I noticed he stopped feeling like my grandpa so I ran out of the house claiming I needed air. I woke up shortly afterward around 5:15? And was too scared to go back to sleep
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numinous-queer · 2 years ago
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I keep telling myself that we’re living in Sola’s childhood, not her court case. That said, tomorrow is a court hearing and I am scared stiff as usual. The agency never shares information with us, so court brings with it the terrifying possibility that we learn her permanency plan will suddenly change and take her to more distant relatives in New Mexico or something else we can’t even guess yet. We can’t live every day in that world of wondering if we’ll have to say goodbye so I try not to dwell, but it gets really hard to do around court dates.
In order to give myself something happy and good to focus on, I’d like to take a minute to share some cute and happy moments with Sola recently!
As you can see from the chalk drawing above, kiddo is getting really into Monsters Inc recently! Specifically, the sequel Monsters University where Mike wears a baseball cap like this:
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Since getting into this movie, she has decided to “share” Grandpa Eric’s baseball cap by taking it home with us one day after a visit. (He doesn’t mind!) She wears it constantly while pretending to be “Mama Mike,” and won’t be parted from it even to go to sleep. The only way I can get her to leave it behind is to say that one of her stuffed animals would like a turn:
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Sola has always ALWAYS been obsessed with the color yellow, and Lexie recently bought her a linen dress that is bright goldenrod. Kiddo LOVES it, and keeps saying “I’m sunshine! I’m the sun!” while twirling around. She figured out that if she stands over the heating grate it makes the dress fly up Marilyn Monroe style, which makes her laugh and laugh!
Kiddo is best friends with our big placid labrador Nacho, and I love listening to her talk to him. The other day he was sniffing her face extra aggressively after she had finished her syrupy pancakes, and she giggled for a long time before squeaking out, “I’m flower!” I tell her stories about the golden retriever named Lemon that Nacho says hi to in the park sometimes, and she is invested in their doggy friendship to a point that would make your blorbos jealous
We go to this wonderful community event called Foster Parent’s Night Out once a month, where a group of volunteers puts together a huge fun event for the kids with a nice dinner every month, and gives their caretakers four glorious hours to rest and do chores. This month’s theme was “PARKOUR” and Sola was so wiped out afterwards that she fell asleep in the car holding her favorite stuffed T-Rex in one hand and a piece of pizza in the other. Living the dream, little lady, living the dream!
Her new favorite game during bathtime is to pretend that the toy basket is a shark that’s eating her leg, and she needs to get saved by one of her dollies. Once you obligingly save her, she gleefully puts the shark in time out, including telling Alexa to set the timer for three minutes. Sometimes the dollies go to their cave (behind the bath curtains) and have loud disagreements that remain a mystery to me, and then the loser is ejected into the tub to her uproarious laughter. There’s a splash zone, but she’s having the absolute time of her life!
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anon-apple · 30 days ago
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Hot Soup and Soft Bread 15
Table of Contents and Synopsis <- Chapter 14 Read on WordPress T/N: Content warning for mention of suicidal thoughts/intentions
Chapter 15: Soymilk and Fried Dough III
To prevent Liu Xiaoying from catching on, Zhong Qiuyan started staying the night at his own place most of the time. Early in the morning, Zhou Cunqu decided to try and head outside without Qiuyan’s accompaniment. He encouraged himself to try and go downstairs to buy breakfast. He stood outside for a long time, picking at the wallpaper, listening to the sound coming in from the stairwell window of the world outside slowly waking up. 
That day he was just standing there when a little kid suddenly ran up from the fourth floor and stood in the stairwell landing halfway up the fifth floor. Cunqu looked at him; he looked at Cunqu. He was a chubby little kid, with half of a glutinous rice ball in his hand, and something like pork floss around his mouth. He looked at Cunqu and called out: “Jie-jie”.[1]
Afterward, Cunqu walked downstairs. The “Double Yolk Egg” Grandpas were standing next to the bulletin board reading the freshly-posted morning newspaper. One of them scratched his head, and the other one followed and scratched his own head. Cunqu passed by them and walked to buy breakfast from the usual place. The little kid’s mother passed by on a bike, the kid sat upon the back seat and waved at him happily.
Cunqu received his breakfast and ran into Liu Xiaoying as she returned from her morning exercises outside the condo building. Cunqu said: “Grandma, I bought breakfast.” He lifted the bag in his hand for Xiaoying to see, then he opened the security door and walked inside. Everything was as natural as if he did this every day. Xiaoying followed him inside, and the two of them walked up the stairs one after another. This was an extremely mundane scene, yet the last time this scene happened was over two years ago. 
That time, Xiaoying walked behind Cunqu, and water droplets dripped from Cunqu’s body onto the staircase every step he took. He looked like he had just been fished out of a pond and placed upon this stairwell. Arriving at the fifth floor, before he even entered the door, Cunqu took out his bank cards and placed them inside Xiaoying’s hand. Emotionlessly, he said: “Grandma, I sold my car and house, the money’s inside these cards.” 
Xiaoying clutched the wet bank cards and looked up at Cunqu. At that moment, she had a premonition, grabbed Cinque's hand, and pulled him inside her home. She hugged Cunqu tightly, and shakily repeated: “Grandma needs you, grandma needs you…”
When Cunqu turned around to look at her, Xiaoying came back to herself and wiped her eyes. She asked: “What did you buy for breakfast?”
Cunqu smiled and said: “Fried dough. And some millet congee for grandma.”
They sat together at the dining table to have breakfast. Xiaoying talked about how the walking path next to the river was bustling even early in the morning. There was always a bunch of people exercising. Cunqu listened to her and replied from time to time. Xiaoying stared at a tiny oil stain on the tablecloth and suddenly laughed. She said: “Without Zhong Qiuyan that chatterbox here, this place suddenly feels so quiet.” Cunqu lowered his head and laughed.
Cunqu, standing in the flowerbed of his family home, repeatedly sneezed. Next to him, Qiu Xuemei helped him transfer a Chinese rose plant[2] into a flower pot. Today was his day off, and Qiuyan had returned to his home village last night after work. He sent a text to Cunqu: Today I’m bringing back a gift for our family’s treasure[3].
In the afternoon, Qiuyan carried two pots of Chinese roses into Xiaoying’s place. Holding the two pots, he walked around looking for Cunqu everywhere. Xiaoying indistinctly said from where she was sitting on the couch: “Are you practicing acrobatics or what? Put the flowers down.”
Cunqu asked, bemused, “Where’s my ge? He’s actually not home.”
 Xiaoying was drinking some odd kind of nutritional soup. She tilted her head back and downed the whole bowl, then said: “He went out with a friend.”
Cunqu’s new good friend, the chubby little kid from the fourth floor, ran to the fifth floor after he came home from kindergarten and invited him to play together on the roof. When Qiuyan ran up, Cunqu was sitting on a camping chair that someone had tossed out. The little chubby kid was lying beside him listening to him read from a picture book. Cunqu read: “One rainy day, atop a continent of a planet in the universe, within a neighborhood in some city of a country, behind the window of a house, stood a little girl. Her name was Madeline. One day, Madeline’s tooth was about to fall out…
So Madeline sprinted out of her home, she wanted to tell all her neighbors this good news. Her neighbors came from all over the world. There was an Italian, a Latin American…" 
The little chubby kid often interrupted Cunqu asking him questions like “What is the Tower of Pisa?”, or “What is a jaguar?” Later he excitedly opened his mouth for Cunqu to look; one of his front teeth also fell. Whenever he smiled, that spot felt cool from the air. 
To demonstrate to Cunqu, he kept smiling. Cunqu eventually couldn’t hold back and also started laughing. Qiuyan took out his phone and captured a photo of that scene. He set it as his wallpaper.
The chubby little kid’s mom came up to get him for dinner. The kid squeezed Cunqu's hand and asked: “Will you read the picture book for me tomorrow too?”
Cunqu nodded. When he turned around, he saw Qiuyan staring at him from the side.
Qiuyan ran up and sat down on the other camping chair. With both hands holding his cheeks, he said: “Gege, I also want to listen to stories.” He was just joking around. But Cunqu suddenly stretched out his hands and feet and lay back on the camping chair. He smiled as he said: “That day when I came to grandma, I planned to just see her and then leave. Back then I accumulated a bunch of my pills and planned to down all of them in one go. But Grandma didn’t let me leave, she didn’t let me leave…”
Cunqu paused for a bit and continued: “And just now I suddenly realized how glad I am of that. The me of today has a boyfriend. And a good friend.”
Qiuyan didn’t reply and instead pulled him into a hug.
When they went downstairs, Qiuyan presented the two pots of Chinese roses to him as if they were treasures. He pressed up against Cunqu and said into his ear: “It’s a gift for you, not Liu Xiaoying. It says online that gifting flowers is a good way to enhance feelings between two lovers.”
Cunqu replied into his ear: “Did you read a romance guide for straight couples? You fool.”
But Cunqu really did like flowers. The two pots of orange and pink roses sat on the balcony, all the way until the end of September. Cunqu felt happy every time he saw them.
In the evening, after the sun had set, he retrieved the clothes he had hung up to dry. Xiaoying was in the kitchen stir frying while complaining about how useless the ventilation fan was. Qiuyan helped to bring out the dishes and yelled towards the balcony: “Ge, time to eat.”
Cunqu tossed the fresh laundry onto the couch and said he needed to wash his hands. When he headed into the bathroom to wash his hands, Qiuyan followed after him and quickly kissed his cheek. Then he hugged him from behind and said: “Wash together, let’s wash together.”
They playfully fought as they washed their hands. When they turned around, they saw Xiaoying standing at the bathroom entrance. Qiuyan was so surprised he almost leaped onto the sink counter. He yelped: “How did you walk over here without making a sound, old lady[4]?” 
Xiaoying’s gaze traveled between the two of them back and forth. Cunqu mumbled: “Grandma…”
The three of them stood stock-still at the bathroom entrance. Xiaoying said: “Hurry and come out to eat. I thought the two of you somehow encountered some big problem while washing your hands…” -> Chapter 16
Footnotes
[1] Not sure if I already footnoted this, but "jie-jie" is older sister haha ("ge-ge" is older brother) [2] A specific type of China rose 果汁阳台 (google images: https://tinyurl.com/2rxfnbzn) [3]  The word is 宝贝, it literally means treasure but is used in a similar way as the “baby” endearment. So it can be translated as that as well.  [4] I don’t know if I ever mentioned this but whenever Qiuyan calls Xiaoying “old lady” he always uses 老太太, which is a respectful address for an elderly woman.
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shions-new-blog-of-stuff · 6 months ago
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"Raindrops and Eggs"
Canon x OC
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A heavy rain storm batters the area, and the news plays weather warnings all day. However, it's close to 1am; Leon and Catherine are sound asleep in her bed. The ambient sounds of distant rumbles and rain hitting the window is surprisingly soothing. Leon's arms are wrapped firmly but gentle around Catherine, faint whistles escaping his nose as he slept. Catherine stirs in her sleep, mumbling something incoherent before relaxing.
Leon's eyes squint and blink. His stomach rumbles, and waits until his eyes focus in the dark. He's hungry, but doesn't want to leave the bed or wake Catherine up. After several minutes of debate, Leon carefully loosens his grip on Catherine and quietly gets out of bed, adjusting his boxers.
Heading downstairs to the kitchen, Leon looks through Catherine's fridge and pantry. He's definitely hungry, but what exactly does he want to eat? He stops when he hears soft footsteps behind him.
Turning around, he sees Catherine in her pink robe and bunny slippers.
"Sorry if I woke you," Leon says, apologetic.
Catherine shook her head, "No, you didn't. Um...bad dream?"
"Not this time. Just hungry is all."
Catherine walks up to the counter and opens one of her grandfather's cookbooks.
"Have a seat, Lee. I'll whip up something good," she says, flipping through the pages.
Leon smiled warmly as he took a seat at the kitchen table. It wasn't often he had a home cooked meal, but when he did, it was usually Catherine making something for him--and the food always good.
Catherine shuffles around from the fridge to the stove, and the kitchen is soon filled with the sounds of sizzling oil, the cracking of eggs, and the banging of pots and pans. Leon occasionally looks out the window--the sky is dark and the rain isn't letting up.
Eventually, Catherine turns off the burners and serves Leon a colorful plate of eggs, bacon and potatoes all mixed together.
"Farmer's breakfast, my grandfather's version," Catherine says sitting across from him.
Leon takes his first bite--his eyes widened a little at how savory and flavorful the dish is. Catherine looks on happily, smiling at his reaction.
Leon puts his fork down to wipe his mouth. "Cathy... this is beyond amazing. You said this was your grandpa's?"
Catherine finished her current bite of her own plate, "Yeah. Grandpa was a caterer and chef in his prime. Even had his own business. All those cookbooks and journals you see me use? They were his. Growing up, I was learning from him. He used to sing or play music as he cooked."
Catherine briefly looks saddened before taking another bite.
"...Wish I could have met him," Leon says quietly.
"Yeah. He would have probably liked you a lot. I miss him every day."
Catherine looks up to see Leon gently holding her hand.
The two finish the meal and clean up the mess. Afterwards, Leon gives her a little peck on the cheek.
"Thanks, sweetheart," he says with a small smile.
@baldursbasics @notrattus @mishwanders @xxcyberhexx @the-resident-vampire
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talltoontales · 9 months ago
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Heavy Load, Great Washability
[WP] After opening your dream tailoring store for 3 years ago, you're surprised to find the new super in your city come in looking to buy a super suit from you. Prompt by u/Difficult_Pirate3234 (Reddit)
[Written on 01/26/2024]
It all started three years ago...
Tim Burks barrels out the front door of an abandoned storefront in a fit of panic and covered in dust. He frantically wipes his entire body as passersby stare at him.
When I was a kid, my grandpa owned a laundromat and built it up from nothing with his own two right hands. It did well, but the real money was in the back, where he'd fix up old clothes for "cheap." He always said that place was like a "second daughter" to him. He passed away before I left for college, and Grandma sold the shop, but no one ever really moved in afterward. After graduating with a bachelor’s in business management with a minor in gender studies, I saved up and bought my grandpa's old shop. I refurbished it...
Tim repeatedly carts in several washers, driers, and tubing. As well as some vending machines, an arcade cabinet, and a couple of TVs.
...threw on a fresh coat of paint...
Tim finishes the final touches on painting the entire room beige. He walks out of the building covered in sweat and paint, where he's met by a man in a suit who hands him some papers.
...tore all of that down because the walls were filled with friggin asbestos...
Tim awkwardly walks back into the laundromat wearing an oversized, bright yellow hazmat suit, a backpack full of garbage bags, a sledgehammer, and a large vacuum cleaner.
Repeat steps one and two, and three years later, Righty Tighty Laundromat & Tailor was back open for business!
A blue neon "Open" sign flashes in the window. Tim sits behind the counter, feet on the desk, watching daytime television on the corner TV as the machines whirled behind him.
"Ahhh," said Tim, "Just like old times, huh?" Tim looks over to his side at a picture of his grandpa, grandma, and his mom in a family photo. He reaches past it, pulling out a small notebook. Opening it, the book is filled with outfit designs, some more practical than others. Tim pulls a heavily used pencil from the notebook's wired spine and doodles.
For a while, the place was doing alright. I had to eat a lot of sandwiches for a while, but I was making my way to the green. Until life reminded me of the most important lesson about owning anything in the big city...
A yellow blur flies through the front of the store, shattering the windows and crashing into some of the washing machines. Tim dropped to the floor in fear. After a few seconds, he poked his head from behind the desk to find that the villain, Fearocodile, a six-foot-tall brown lizard man, had just crashed into his store.
*Crack*
Tim jolts around to see a man in casual, bloodstained black clothes, pitch-black hair poking from behind his hockey mask with the spade symbol painted over the right eye. He carries a long rifle as he walks into the store and over to Fearocodile. The masked man pokes Fearocodile with the barrel of his gun. Fearocodile groans in pain as a response.
The masked figure throws Fearocodile's tail over his shoulder and begins to drag the monster out of the store with ease. As the two pass by the still-shocked Tim, the masked figure looks at the stunned man.
"Sorry," says the masked man in a distorted voice before continuing to walk out.
Always! Get! Super Insurance!
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I'll tell you what! Nothing puts the fear of God in someone more than seeing their bank account die in front of their eyes. I cleaned up the best I could and re-opened, now with a wider entrance. I couldn't afford to close the place down, especially not now. With a chunk of the machines scrapped and a horde of bills on the horizon, I needed all the money I could get. Thankfully, I didn't have to sweat for too long before someone offered me a lifeline.
It's late at night. Tim turns off the sign, turns off the store lights, locks the front door, and then walks out of the giant hole in the front of the store.
"Excuse me," said a man. Tim turned to find a sharply dressed man holding a suit bag under his arm. "I'm sorry. Are you closing up?" Tim looks over the man and his outfit, which feels too expensive to look at.
"Are you kidding?" says Tim, "Our doors are always open! Here, let me get the door for you." Tim runs back through the hole and unlocks the door from the inside. The wealthy man smiles awkwardly.
"Um, no, thank you," said the wealthy man, "I was just wondering if you could wash my gym clothes for me?"
"Buddy," says Tim, "My grandpa built this place off of gym clothes! Not a stain nor stink will leave this building!" The wealthy man struggles to maintain a friendly appearance.
"Sure," says the wealthy man, "just be sure to be discreet."
"No mentioning the unmentionables, got it!" says Tim. The man's face goes dull before just walking off. "Uh, ok. Stay safe, sir!" Tim goes to put the clothes inside before turning back around. "Wait! What's the name for the..." Tim looks where the wealthy man was walking only to find the sidewalk empty. He double-checks before shrugging it off.
Inside, he turns on the TV and throws the suit bag on top of a washer, where it lands with a thud. "Jeez, what's this guy training for?" After getting the good conditioner, he opens the bag and pulls out a black shirt covered in blood. Tim froze in place, only able to stare into the damp black and red fabric.
After passing out a few times, I figured I had already seen too much to back out. So, I did what I could, and I have to admit, I'm damn good at getting rid of evidence. Next day, the guy shows up to pick up his "Gym Clothes." Meanwhile, I'm just mentally preparing to see my grandparents again. I hand him the bag, and the guy takes a look inside, zips it up, and just walks out without even a "Thanks." I was too tired to even realize he didn't even pay me! A week later, I’m coming to open up shop only to find a bunch of big guys fixing up my store, and not your same old crack-showing construction workers. These guys were pros. They were even done that the next day and my store never looked better. All that was left was a note taped to my door; "Thanks." followed by the symbol of a spade.
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gaysindistress · 1 year ago
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Don’t mind my ramblings 😂
I have to go to the town I grew up in with my dad this weekend and I’m dreading it because I haven’t been back in like 5-6 years. That and it’ll be a 2 hr drive on super winding roads.
Anyways….I’m feeling ✨angsty✨ so if y’all want some insight into where my self proclaimed angst writing powers came from, read ahead.
Or don’t, I might delete this later. I haven’t decided if this feels like oversharing or not.
Warnings: mentions of racism, religion, and country music
I usually don’t listen to country because it’s awful most of the time and it reminds me too much of home. But when I do, that shit s l a p s and Im not talking Zach Bryan or any of that mainstream shit. ZB is great but I’m talking Colter Wall, The Death South, Uncle Lucius, the Devil makes three, and even late Johnny Cash.
I grew up in a tiny ass town (the population is literally under 200) and the only thing for miles are ranches and hundreds of acres of open land. We didn’t have wifi or cell service until 2018 and i learned to drive on a forgotten forest service road in an old manual farm truck that didn’t have seatbelts. It barely had seats to be completely honest. We would walk to the church on the hill every Sunday wearing our Sunday best where the preacher would be drenched in sweat as he spoke about the Bible and told us that the End Times were coming. We needed to ask for forgiveness, pray any chance we got, and turn off the radio. The songs that out society loved were the Devil’s music and gospel was the only thing acceptable. I couldn’t say the Lord’s name in vain or my great grandma would whack the tops of my hands and make me help her clean. God was something to be afraid of but to be loved reverently as he was out Father.
Afterwards, my great grandma and grandma would make supper for all of us. The staples of homemade jams and bread were always there but the meat and veggies would change depending on what we had available.
We did laundry in a ringer washer and dried the clothes on a line in the front yard. I learned how to sew and mend anything you could think of before I turned 10. My dad and uncles made sure I was the best shot in the family. My mom taught me how to befriend a horse so that you became one when riding. She’d say that there was nothing more dangerous than a rider and a horse who weren’t in sync. It was a running joke that I was Annie Oakley and my grandpa tried for years to get me to do rodeos but my parents wouldn’t let me. Granted I didn’t want to either, the people could be vicious and as I got older, the racism grew worse. My dad was whiter than my grandpa so few people said anything to him but if I was with my grandpa, people would say some of the foulest things you could think of. When I was probably 8, I remember asking him why that group of men yelled at us to “go back to the Rez” and to hide the alcohol. He didn’t answer me and dropped me off with my great grandma. When he came back maybe 30 minutes later, his knuckles were bloody and he tried to wipe them off before he sat down next to us but I still saw them. I knew better than to ask him about it because the look he gave me when he noticed me staring at his hand was one full of hatred, anger, and a deep pain that could never be erased and it told me everything.
My mom wasn’t safe from it either and in their ignorance, people would say whatever they thought might be the most hurtful. Her mom used a mix of Arabic and English when she spoke to my brother, cousins and me but that stopped when all the news would talk about was the war in Iraq and terrorist groups infiltrating America. My mom was terrified that someone would accuse us of being connected to these groups even though her family was from a different country entirely. So my Sitto stopped speaking Arabic and no matter how hard I try to learn it again, nothing sounds as beautiful as hers.
For the most part, I blended in but if anyone looked at me long enough, they’d see what I’d learn to hide. I bleached my dark brown hair and straightened every curl until it no longer held its shape. I covered my face in makeup so that it looked pointed and no longer held the soft flat planes it used to. I used accents of gold and similar colors to lighten my nearly black eyes. Before only the sun could bring out the yellow flecks but I refused to go out for long in order to keep my skin a lighter shade. During the summers when I spent all of my time outside and away from others, my skin would brown until it looked like the dirt and clay beneath my feet. I did all that I could to make myself blend in better and when I failed, my work ethic of sun up to sun down and my ability to keep my mouth shut made it so I was forgettable. No one bothers the average in a town like the one I used to call home.
We’d spend every weekend in late summer and early fall cutting wood for the elders in town. My dad knew everyone’s addresses by heart and didn’t need navigation when he dropped off the wood. After those long days, my great grandma would lay out old quilts she’d made over the years on the lawn so all of us could sleep under the stars. We’d laugh and giggle as we pointed out the constellations and told each other stories. It was then that I learned how our grandparents painted the multicolored hills that surrounded us. Sometimes when we all began to fall asleep, we’d hear the coyotes and once I swear I heard a wolf howl even though my dad said they hadn’t been around in decades. Rarely did I see the big black bear that liked my great grandparents’ Apple trees. I would see the aftermath of his feast though as the raccoons took their share. Sometimes the turkeys would scare them off but that was only seasonally.
I can’t relate to most country music because that’s not the world I grew up in. We didn’t have bonfires on Friday nights after the football games or go mudding when it rained. We didn’t hunt or fish for fun because it was a necessity as the nearest store was an hour away. My childhood in those rural ranch lands was beautiful but harsh and makes any spaghetti western that featured Clint Eastwood or John Wayne look like child’s play. People try to liken to it Yellowstone but i always say it was closer to the prequel 1883.
Country music has always been deeply intertwined with religion but I can’t relate to the way that Tyler Childers and Zach Bryan sing about their god even though I should. I didn’t pray to the God they sing about because the one I grew up with was something from the Great Awakening. The God I grew up with was an old one that demanded sacrifices in the form of our days spent in service to Him and forgoing what modern society offered us because it was deeply sinful. I feared the Devil would one day walk amongst us because that’s what our preacher told us would happen if we listened to the radio or watched any new movies. I imagined when he did claw his way to earth from the depths of Hell, he would wear a suit and tie with a great grin full of teeth sharp enough to snap my bones in one bite.
The “country” I grew up in is nothing like what people imagine when they listen to its music media. It’s not like Yellowstone, any of those homestead shows, or whatever else is labeled as western. The “country” I grew up in, the one that feels most like home albeit a distant one, was more like the one that Colter Wall, Delta Rae, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club, The Death South, Uncle Lucius, the Devil makes three, and of course Johnny Cash all sang about.
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yifan · 7 years ago
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This is the year of the rooster 🐓
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wanderingalien142 · 3 years ago
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Southern Comfort
Jack Daniels (Agent Whiskey) x Female!Reader
Summary: While preparing for a mission with Agent Whiskey a tornado hits. Jack comforts you in your scared and vulnerable state. 
Word Count: 2996
Warnings: Lilapsophobia (fear of tornados), small mention of alcohol, swearing, and cuddling.
Side Notes: Recently a tornado touched down really close to my home. My family and I are fine but it did wipe out a small town, destroying homes, trees, and a farm silo at my grandpa and grandma’s. No one died thankfully but it was scary, afterwards I was thinking of who I would like to comfort me in that situation. For some reason Jack Daniels seemed like the right choice. 
--- --- --- 
You loved your job working for the Statesman Agency. You were a field agent and damn good at your job. Often working on jobs alone as you had a reputation for being stubborn and doing it your way anyway. It caused trouble when you were with other people but when you were alone it always worked out. The only times you worked with another agent was in training and when it was a big mission that had to go right. You stayed at the headquarters in Kentucky instead of leaving to be in charge of your own branch. Hating having a leadership role, you were in charge of yourself and that was plenty.
This new mission was one of those “It has go right” ones. Champ told you about the mission but made Tequila tell you that you need a partner. You punched Tequila… but you didn’t break his nose this time. You didn’t know who you were paired with because you stormed out. Hiding out in the lab with Ginger as she was listening to you rant. Being one of your bestfriends at Statesmen you both ranted to each other and hung out with your downtime. 
“I know it's a big mission but they won’t even let me look at the files first!” You repeated for the tenth time. “They always let me look at the details before I start the mission. Champ knew I’d need a partner on past missions, but he convinced me with the details of the mission! That’s the only way I agree to doing this!” You were near screaming. Pacing around the lab to vent some frustration. 
Ginger sat at her desk writing some notes for the end of the day. “Did you ask to see the details?”
“...No…” 
“(y/n) we both know you would’ve seen the file if you asked. Did you even ask who you’re working with, when you’re leaving, or where you’re going?”
You stopped pacing, hanging your head embarrassed. “I know they would’ve given me the file but it’s been a year since I’ve had a partner on a mission and I thought I was off the hook. I don’t know who I’m working with but Champ made Tequila tell me so probably someone I hate or who isn’t any good at field work. I think we’re going to South America, I wasn’t really listening.” You sighed not wanting to talk to Champ about it now that you realized how little you knew. 
“We’re going to Brazil.” A new voice called out. 
Oh shit was the only thought going through your head. Ginger looked at the doorway with a grin right behind her eyes. Turning you saw what you knew would be your impending doom. Whiskey. He simply held up the file on the case as a grin formed on his face. 
“You better hope I heard you wrong.” You said glaring at him, making no move to grab the file. 
“You don’t have to believe me.” Whiskey shook the file in his hand. “It’s all in black and white. But I’d appreciate it if you didn’t punch the messenger, like you did to Tequila.” He walked forward to hand you the file. Taking it from his hand you skimmed it while Ginger and Whiskey talked. She knew you had a small crush on the man and often teased you about it. And you knew her issues with him so you read quickly so she didn’t have to deal with him longer than she probably wanted. She had already dealt with your dramatic ass for the last hour and a half.
“It’s just you and me!? Hell I could’ve done this fine on my own. I don’t need your bad knees slowing me down.” You complained. Mostly to yourself, muttering the last part. 
“Oh don’t wound me like that Vesper, I taught you a lot of what you know.” Looking up at Whiskey he put a hand over his heart feigning offense. It was true he hand trained you in many things before he went to New York. 
“That was before you sat at a desk all day.” You countered. He chuckled, you both knew he still could handle field work. He got to where he is because he excelled at it.
Turning to Ginger, you gave her a hug. “I gotta go and review the files. I’ll see you tomorrow to go over everything I might need.”
“Sounds good, I’ll see you tomorrow. Oh drive safe a storm is coming through.” She replied with some concern. You nodded and went to walk out the door, not bothering to say goodbye to Whiskey. 
--- --- ---
While getting to your car you heard footsteps behind you. Glancing up you saw your temporary partner. 
“Hey wait up!” Whiskey called. Despite your better judgment you stopped. “I was wondering if you wanted to come back to my place tonight-” Without letting him finish you went to slap the agent in front of you. He caught your hand before contact was made and you glared at him. Before you were able to yell at him and his stupid mustache he finished his sentence. “- to go over the case.” 
You paused, “Can’t we do this tomorrow?” Putting your arm back on your hip you waited. 
“Normally I would say yes but we need to leave tomorrow night. That’s not a lot of prep time for a mission this big. So a couple extra hours tonight would help us sort out some of the cover story and details.” Whiskey explained adjusting his Stetson. Thinking for a minute you really didn’t want to deal with him an extra night, but he was right. 
“Fine,” You sighed. “I’ll follow you to your house.” 
“Why don’t I just drive you?” Whiskey asked before you could even turn around. “It’ll be easier and I don’t have space for two cars in my garage. Your car will get rained on by the storm and I’d hate for anything to fall on it if it’s gonna be as bad as they say.” 
At this point you were too tired and hungry to argue any further. You also took good care of your car and you would hate it if a branch went through the windshield. So you just nodded and followed Whiskey to his car. 
“I will be stealing some food though. I haven’t had dinner yet.” You said while getting into in the passenger seat. 
Whiskey chuckled, “I’d be more than happy to make you a proper meal darlin’. I got some burgers I can make, how’s that sound?”
“With a glass of Statesman’s best? That sounds perfect.” You said, much more excited for a fresh meal vs the leftovers you had in your fridge. 
--- --- ---
After eating and having a drink you had covered all the main points of the mission. Objection, cover story, location, time, targets, and all the other boring stuff. You had put together a list of things you’d get from Ginger and things you’d need to pack for the trip. 
You didn’t think it’d be this easy to work with Whiskey. But he had trained you so he knew how to deal with you and your stubbornness. Convincing you with facts you couldn’t deny and agreeing to do things your way when it was the better option. Being patient with your stubborn ass the whole time. He washed the dishes as you fell into more casual conversation. Talking about past missions mostly and the interesting encounters you had in the field. 
The storm outside had gotten worse and from time to time the lights would flicker. Thunder and lightning rang out as wind whipped around the house. The news channel was on the small tv in the kitchen reporting the weather, it was muted. The radio on the counter had the police scanner going so you two heard about the downed power lines, trees, and other things. You watched the tv nervously as the radar showed the possibility for a tornado. 
“Can you turn off the radio for a minute?” You asked Whiskey. Grabbing the remote you unmuted the tv. 
“Here we see a tight pocket of cold and hot air where a tornado could form. It looks to be traveling northwest here. There was rotation reported outside of town but please be careful if you live around here and get into your basement. This is moving fast and it doesn’t take long for a tornado to do a lot of damage once it does form.” The meteorologist said showing the pattern on the radar. Wide eyed you turned to Whiskey who was finishing the dishes. 
“Where are we on that map?” you asked meekly. Voice shaking but you couldn’t help yourself. He looked at you. “Let’s get to the basement.” Was all he said grabbing the radio and his phone. You were frozen in fear, how far were you from the tornado? Grabbing your wrist Whiskey leads you to the basement clearly sensing your fear. 
Turning on the light and shutting the door behind you he leads you to a small room, the pantry. Big enough for you two to sit or lay down and have probably a foot between you. 
“Stay here I’m gonna grab some pillows and blankets from the living room. We could be here for a while.” Concern laced Whiskey’s accent as he talked. Still scared, all you could do was nod. He ran off while you just stood there and hugged yourself. You were embarrassed beyond belief. Being a notoriously reckless troublemaker who worked alone you didn’t really show fear. Nothing really bothered you, except tornados. As a kid your farm was completely wiped away by a tornado and since then you’ve always been terrified. As you stood there the lights flickered and the power went out. Whimpering you held back tears waiting for Whiskey to come back. Being too afraid to move or call out to him.
In the living room the power went out Jack swore to himself. You were scared, he had never seen it before. He wouldn’t believe someone if they told him you were scared of something. Scrambling to find the flashlight under the sink he finally got it. Grabbing the pillows and blankets he rushed back down to the basement, to you. He wasn’t one to judge, everyone had something they were afraid of. He wasn’t going to poke fun or ask about it, but he did know that you needed someone right now. Your voice shocked him earlier and you had frozen wide eyed when he grabbed you. Right now you couldn’t be alone and he wouldn’t let you. 
Getting back to the pantry Jack found you, eye’s closed, hugging yourself, and whispering to yourself incoherently. He could hardly believe his eyes. This was the same person who bet him $50 bucks she could beat him in a fight the first time you met, and she won. Setting everything down he carefully touched your arm. Flinching you looked up. A tear fell down your cheek when you saw Jack in front of you. 
Reaching out and hugging you he whispered into your ear. “I’m so sorry. I’m here now and I’m not leaving.” Stepping back he led you out of the small room. “Wanna lay down the blanket? We’ll lay down and wait this storm out together.” 
You nodded now calmer that Jack had come back. He laid down the blanket and you grabbed the pillows, sitting down a little more comfortable than before. Sitting down next to you Jack laid the other blanket over the both of you. When he sat down and you cuddled into his side. Still a little embarrassed but your anxiety was so overpowering and you’d have an anxiety attack if you didn’t hold to something. Jack didn’t flinch but he hesitated a little before laying an arm on your back. Your head on his chest, an arms around his torso, legs curled up, with one leg laying slightly on top of his. 
This wasn’t something he’d ever thought would happen. He liked you and found you attractive, he wouldn’t deny that. He had wanted to hold you in his arms for a while now but he knew you would never let that happen. Now he got to, under not-so-great circumstances he’ll admit but Jack didn’t think he’d ever get this chance again. Making small circles on your back he hummed a tune in your ear trying to comfort you. You were shaking and he was beyond determined to help you. 
You took a deep breath trying to even your voice. “Thank you Jack.” Near whispering your voice shook. Jack’s breath hitched, you had never called him by his name. It was almost like music to him and he knew he could easily become addicted to the sound.
“Of course darlin’.” He held you a bit tighter, liking the feeling of protecting you. 
“I’m sure this is the last thing you wanted to do. I’m sorry for seeming so weak, I’ll understand if you want a new partner for the mission.” Your voice still shook but talking helped. Listening to something else besides the wind and rain outside. You wiped a few tears off your face, even though Jack’s shirt already had small stains from your crying.
“I’m more than happy to sit here and hold you all night (y/n). And I would never think of having another partner for any mission. You are not weak, you’re human. There’s no one else I’d have at my side when behind enemy lines, I trust you more than any other agent I’ve worked with.” Jack said surprised you even suggested something like that. You were normally so confident and never cared what others thought of you. 
Your shaking had finally settled and you looked up at Jack. He had abandoned his Stetson at some point. Sharing a small smile with him, you never thought you’d be in his arms but you loved it. Feeling him surround you and protect you in his arms. Part of you never wanted to leave.
Jack swore his heart almost stopped seeing you look up at him like that. He had doubts that you liked him but in this moment there wasn’t a doubt in his mind. This feeling was a mutual one. The look in your eyes told him everything he needed to know. 
A crash of thunder and a loud whip of wind came out of nowhere. Scared, you jumped into his arms hiding your face back in his chest. For a minute you forgot about the storm outside. Jack held you even tighter than before hating that he couldn’t make it all disappear, make all your worries go away. Rubbing your back with one hand he reached and turned on the radio with the other. You two listened to the police scanner for a minute before Jack changed it to a weather station. 
“The tornado touched down but didn’t stay for long. It moved across fields but thankfully hit no houses. Keep an eye out for fallen trees and power lines. While the tornado has disappeared and deformed there are still strong winds. Those in their basement should be safe to return to their homes.” The meteorologist stated. They talked about where it was headed and how it was unlikely that another would form again. 
“Well it’s past us now. How about we go up to my room and lay down for the rest of the night?” Jack asked, turning off the radio and looking at you. Nodding slowly you got up, Jack followed suit. But before you could start walking up stairs he picked up bridal style and started walking. You were about to argue, while you were still anxious, the tornado was gone and you were starting to calm down. But Jack cut you off before you could say anything. 
“I don’t want to hear it (y/n).” He looked you in the eyes again, “Let me take care of you, if just for tonight. You can kick my ass in the morning if you still want to.” Grinning, he looked back up and kept walking. 
You huffed in annoyance. “Fine, but just for tonight.” With that you cuddled back into his chest relinquishing power to him for now. Jack cheered internally, he was going to make the most of getting to hold and protect you. 
He got you up the steps to the main floor and up another set of stairs to his bedroom with little to no effort. It was impressive, and you felt a little bad for making fun of his knees earlier. Laying you down in his bed he grabbed an extra pair of sweatpants and an oversized t-shirt and set them on your bedside table. Before getting a change of clothes for himself. 
“Feel free to change out of your work clothes. I’ll go into the bathroom and get ready. I’ll be back in a couple minutes.” Then Jack had left you for the second time that night. You changed into the clothes he set aside, inhaling his scent and getting lost in the mix of cologne and smoke. Feeling arms around your waist again you didn’t jump or flinch, you weren’t panicked. Jack came and hugged you from behind, his face in the crook of your neck. 
“Well that has to be just about the prettiest sight this side of the Mississippi. Let's get to bed  then sleep through this storm. I promise, nothing will take me from you for a third time tonight.” Jack mumbled, his warm breath on your neck. You leaned into his touch, truly believing his words. 
“Promise?”
You swear that was the best you slept in years. Curled up in the arms of a cowboy.
Holding you in his arms as if you’d disappear any second Jack fought off sleep so he could savor this perfect moment. He never thought he’d fall this hard for anyone. 
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sammygvfslut · 3 years ago
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i like you a latte | s. kiszka
Summary: Words cannot espresso how much you mean to Sammy Kiszka.
Word Count: 2.3k
A/N: Hey besties!!! this is my first ever sam fic, and i really hope you guys enjoy it! it’s super cheesy so beware of some tooth-rotting fluff ahead. any and all feedback is appreciated <3
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Loud chattering and the sounds of espresso machines hissing and whistling filled the cafe. Every few seconds or so when a new customer walked in, a soft ringing above the door rang. Glancing at the clock, you sighed as it read 7am. Way too early for your liking. You wished to be back in bed under the covers with your cat Joey snuggling. Plus, the cold weather made it even harder for you to get out of bed every morning. Damn you, winter.
“Good morning.” A voice said suddenly, startling you as you slightly jumped. “Whoops, didn’t mean to scare you there for a sec.”
Turning around at the voice, your heart fluttered and a smile pulled at the corners of your lips. “G-Good morning, Sam! Nope, didn’t scare me at all. I was just uh...focusing very hard and you caught me off guard.”
A chuckle rumbled from his chest, his own lips curving and flashing that beautiful grin. God, he made you melt. You took a quick chance to admire his appearance for the day, luscious brown locks pulled back into a low bun with a few stray pieces framing his face, and he wore a slightly oversized brown grandpa looking sweater. He exuded true fall energy today and all you wanted to do was snuggle with him watching a movie while sipping on hot chocolate. “Right. Focusing on what exactly? Staring at the register?”  
“S-Sure. Yes, the register.” Totally not him instead. “Um, I realized it turned off right now and my mind blanked to turn it back on.”
Sam placed a hand on your shoulder as he laughed, his touch leaving a wave of goosebumps to rise out of your skin. “You’re so cute. I’ll leave you to that then, but if you need help trying to get the register to turn back on again, let me know.” And with that, he sent you a wink and turned on his heel away to start on the customers orders.
Alright, alright. So maybe early shifts weren’t as bad as you thought thanks to your insanely charming co-worker. Sam and you had been working together for the past year, and almost instantly you started falling for him. He welcomed you with open arms and he was a great help when it came to your training. Your co-workers were nice too, but Sam took that extra step in making sure you were comfortable with what you were doing. If you made a mistake and were freaking out about it, he somehow knew the way to calm you down. He was too precious and good for this cruel world. And most of all, out of your league too.
With his dashing looks and amazing personality, you just knew there was no way he’d ever feel the same about you. Except, any time you’d voice that thought to any of your friends at work, they’d tell you you’re crazy and that he likes you too. Apparently they caught on to the signs more than you did, which wasn’t a shocker considering that you’d have no clue if a guy was interested in you unless he blatantly confessed. So, trying to figure out hints was completely pointless for you.
“Uh oh, she’s deep in thought,” one of your friends/co-workers, Danny, teased. He also happened to be Sam’s best friend, and current band mate since the pair are in a band with Sam’s older twin brothers. “I bet I can guess what, or who you were thinking about.”
“Don’t even say it,” you warned with a finger, “He’s literally four feet away from us—”
“So?” Danny rolled her eyes with his arms folded. “Why don’t you just tell him how you feel? Come on, it’s been almost a year now. What’s the worst that can happen if you confess?”
“He can hear me.” You stared blankly at him, shaking your head. “Absolutely not though, Danny. I will not embarrass myself from the humiliation I’d have to face from his rejection.”
Danny groaned frustratedly, placing his hands on both your shoulders and shaking them. “You’re so hopeless! Y/N, how many times do the guys and I have to tell you he likes you too!” He raised his voice a little louder than necessary which accidentally caught the attention of almost everyone in the cafe. Sam included unfortunately. Danny’s eyes widened, silently cursing under his breath. “Carry on, everyone.”
As much as you hated to admit it, Danny wasn’t lying when he mentioned about the guys agreeing that Sam likes you too. Every time you came over Josh’s apartment and Sam was there he’d find any little excuse to have his arm around you or teasing you constantly. You’d shake it off that he was just treating you like a friend would, but of course the guys would disagree with you.
“We’ll finish this conversation later,” Danny told you sternly, “But for now, and don’t make it obvious, but Sam’s looking at you.” A mischievous grin spread across his face as he winked and stepped to the next register before greeting a new customer and taking their order.
Heart pounding out of your chest, you slowly looked over your shoulder in Sam’s direction. You saw his head quickly turn and finish off the drink in front of him. Your cheeks burned at this and tried taking deep, slow breaths to calm yourself down. Didn’t work much, but as a new customer waved and told you their order, your breathing turned back to normal.
On the other end of the counter, Sam was currently freaking the hell out from what he heard a few minutes ago between you and Danny. He didn’t mean to, but he also wasn’t that far from either of you. Plus, Danny wasn’t the best at keeping his voice low. He had a strong feeling he knew you were talking about him, and for that reason alone he overflowed the cup he was pouring into and made a mess. He cursed under his breath and wiped his hands on his apron, shaking his head.
You caught sight of this and rushed to his side, grabbing a cloth from under the sink and started wiping the sticky counter. Sam was certain his cheeks were tomato red from his embarrassment, making a complete fool of himself for not paying attention to what he was doing. More so focusing on your conversation and your damn smile from earlier. You weren’t the only one here with a crush.
“T-Thanks, Y/N.” Sam chuckled nervously, throwing the cup in the trash and tossing the drink pitcher he held in the sink. “I’m normally not this much of a dumbass.”
“I’m not too sure about that one, Kiszka.” You teased lightly with a grin. “It happens, don’t worry,” you assured. “I’m just glad it was cold tea you spilled and not steaming coffee. I’d hate for you to get a third degree burn. That happened to me once, don’t recommend it.”
“Didn’t I drive you to the hospital for that?” he asked. “I think that might’ve happened a few months ago.”
Your eyes widened at the memory. “Oh shit, you’re right. God, I’m still so sorry I had to drag you into that.”
Sam shook his head, lips curving and cheeks no longer flushed. “For the hundredth time, stop apologizing about that, Y/N. You know you can count on me for anything, so of course I didn’t mind driving you to the hospital. I remember even blasting some ABBA on the way over there so you’d have something else to focus on instead of the pain you endured.”
You smiled at the memory. “Didn’t we also go out for ice cream afterwards?”
He nodded, lightly rubbing his arm. “Yeah, it was a lot of fun. I mean, I always have fun when I’m with you.”
Your breath caught in your throat at his last few words, blinking slowly. “O-Oh.”
Oh? That’s all you have to say? Nice one, Y/N.
Sam’s heart dropped. Fuck. Maybe you weren’t talking about him after all. Maybe it was Danny or one of his brothers that you had a crush on and he was mistaken about it. He wanted nothing more than for the ground to swallow him whole right about now. Being anywhere but here sounded splendid to him.
“Y-Y/N, I—“
“Ihavefunwhenimwithyoutoo,” you muttered all too quickly, and poor Sam barely even understood what you said. He didn’t have the chance to ask you to repeat yourself because you quickly walked away to the back and he was left with a tug at his chest, frowning.
Within the next few days after Sam’s tea spill, literally, things between you and him became...awkward. Something went off in him to become even more clumsy than normal and forget everything he’s ever known when you’re near him. He’d get flustered, stuttering a lot, messing up orders, dropping dishes, and nearly tripping all the time. He hated it so much and wished he could just muster up the courage and apologize for being such an idiot and confess his feelings to you. Even during your hangouts with the guys, Sam and you wouldn’t interact as much and honestly you were well aware you were being super childish and immature about the situation. Sam did too, and he needed to snap the fuck out of it.
The next few days at work Sam would ignore Danny’s little side comments about his immaturity and continued working in silence. For the rest of his shift he didn’t talk much to anyone other than the customers. He wanted to talk to you when he had the chance, but then he’d quickly back out and walk the opposite direction.
He couldn’t figure out why it was so futile for him to just grow a sack and tell you he likes you. He’d never gone through this struggle before. Then again, as cheesy as it sounded, the other girls he’d asked out in the past couldn’t compare to you. Never in a million years, and maybe he was too afraid that he didn’t deserve someone as amazing as you.
Nearing closing that same day, it was only you, Sam, and Danny. The flow of customers died down and not many people came in towards the end of the night which you were grateful for. It finally gave you the chance to relax a bit and start cleaning things up ahead of time so you wouldn’t have to stay after. Joey and a nice warm bath were waiting for you at home.
While Sam decided on working the register and you and Danny would clean, he grabbed your arm and led you into the back.
“What are you two still doing not dating each other or talking?! It’s been way too long now, Y/N. And since it’s only us three tonight, you have no other choice. Come on, I know you can’t take this any longer, and he can’t either. I can take over the register for a bit while you and him talk.”
You chewed on your bottom lip, contemplating his offering. As incredibly thankful as you were for his help, you were also scared shitless of the possible outcome. Perhaps it was finally time though that you say fuck it and say what you needed to. You couldn’t go on for any longer to keep your feelings bottled up inside. Maybe, just maybe he might feel the same way, and by God you hoped that would be the case.
Inhaling, you nodded slowly and made your way back to where you were. Your eyes searched for Sam and saw he was busy making a drink, except there was no one else here besides you, him and Danny. It could’ve been a drink for him, so you shrugged this off and went towards the sink to start washing the dishes.
A few moments later, Sam cleared his throat from behind you. “H-Hey Y/N, so um, I know the créme brûlée latte is your favorite, and I thought I’d make you one. You seemed really stressed and busy today and I wanted to try to cheer you up. I hope that’s okay.”
Your heart swelled at his generosity and your cheeks burned as you felt his gaze burning into you, his palms soaking from nervousness. “Sam, you didn’t have to do that for me.”
He shrugged casually, a small smile on his lips and his cheeks tinted a light pink. “It’s okay, I wanted to. And I uh, tried my best on the art. Hope you like it.”
Raising a brow, your gaze dropped on your cup and your eyes widened as you saw what he was referring to. A small coffee cup with the words I like you a latte around it.
“It’s true,” Sam chewed on his bottom lip while running his fingers through his hair. “I really like you Y/N, and I’m so sorry for acting like such an idiot these last few days around you. I don’t know what came over me, and I’m sorry that I didn’t talk to you much either.”
Setting your cup on the counter, you took a step closer to him and cupped his cheek, rubbing your thumb softly against his soft skin. “You don’t have to apologize for anything, Sam. I’m sorry for not talking to you too, as well as for making a fool of myself. I tend to do that around someone I like.”
Finally, the realization dawned on Sam as a wide grin pulled at his lips. “Glad we’re on the same boat.”
“I-Is it alright if I kiss you?” he asked shyly, his eyes sparkling as he looked at you.
You giggled. “You don’t even have to ask, loverboy.” You playfully rolled your eyes and cupped his other cheek before connecting his lips with yours.
A smirk pulled at Danny’s lips as he glanced at the two of you, shaking his head. Josh and Jake owed him $20 now. 
It was about damn time that Sam and you finally espresso’d your love for each other. 
tagging these lovely folks bc they helped inspired me and their work is amazing <3 @godlygreta​ / @flowervanfleet​ / @dharma-divine​
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blackhakumen · 3 years ago
Text
Mini Fanfic #859: Meeting the WarioWare Gang (SSBU X WarioWare)
4:23 p.m. at WarioWare Inc.....
Ashley: (Fixes Up Lucas' Bow Tie) How are you feeling, Lucas?
Lucas: Nervous.....Shaky.... Maybe even a little terrified.....(Turns to Wario) I-Is there a word for all of this?
Wario: (Shrugs) I don't know. Fidgeted?
Lucas: Yeah. That's the one. Fidgeted. I am feeling definitely fidgeted right now.....(Turns to Ashley) Hey, how do I look by the way?
Ashley: (Smiles Softly) You look very handsome today. You really didn't have to wear the bow tie though.
Wario: Yeah. We're only having a picnic at the park.
Lucas: ('Sigh') I know. But Big Sis Ann insisted that I need to look my best for the occasion. This.... isn't too much, is it?
Ashley: It isn't. (Gently Grab Both of Lucas' Hands) And you have nothing to worry about here, Lucas. Everything is going to be just fine.
Wario: Ashley's right, squirt. I known these people for as long as I can remember. They're the most annoying and gullible- (Gets Startled Once He Notice Ashley's Dark Glare Is Pointing Directly at Him) I-I mean, they're the nicest people I know! A-And you don't need to worry about making a bad impression on them or anything. Just stay calm, be yourself, and everything will go good from there.
Ashley: (Genuinely Surprised) Wow, Wario. That's.... actually good advice.
Lucas: Yeah. (Smiles a Little) Thanks, Wario.
Wario: Eh. (Wave his Hand While Rolling his Eyes) It's whatever. I only did it to stop you from being a wuss. (Starts Picking his Nose)
Lucas: (Gets A Bit Grossed Out By Wario)
Ashley: (Gives Wario a Deadpinned Look on her Face) Stop picking your nose, Wario.
Wario: I do whatever I please. (Starts Wiping his Hand on the Side of his Pants)
Ashley: ('Ugh') (Starts Rolling her Eyes) Horridness aside, you think you're ready to do this, Lucas?
Lucas: (Sighs While Nodding) As I'll ever be. (Turns Towards the Office Door)......Y-You don't mind if I count to three before going in, do you?
Ashley: (Giggles Softly) Not at all, Lucas.
Lucas: Thanks! (Takes a Deep Breath) Okay. One......Two....T-
Wario: (Walk Past Lucas to Open the Door) One, two, three. We're going in. (Shoves Lucas Inside the Office) Move it already.
Lucas: Okay! Okay!
Wario: Wahahahaha!- (Gets Stomped on the Toe By Ashley Before Wincing in Pain) YEOOUUCH!!! (Starts Hopping on One Toe) You.... little....yauughh!
Lucas' eyes begins in widened in genuine surprise at the sight of everyone present in the office. Each of which are as colorful, energetic, and lively as Ashley described them to be.
Lucas: Are they really the employees of this company?
Wario: Yep. Each and everyone of them.
Ashley: Pretty lively, aren't they?
Lucas: Yeah..... They're so cool.....
Wario: (Already Getting Impatient) Hurry up and say something already!
Lucas: (Immediately Comes Back to Reality) R-Right!....U-Um!
Everyone in the office came into a complete halt at what they were respectively doing while turning their heads at the timid boy with a bowtie.
Lucas: I...u-um...(Smiles Nervously While Waving Hello to the Employees) H-Hi. I'm not sure if Ashley and Wario told you about me beforehand, but....my name is-
Everyone: LUCAS!!~
Without any hesitation, the employees excitedly rushes over to Lucas and pulls into a group hug/gathering.
Ashley: (Sighs While Having a Deadpinned Look on her Face) So much for toning the excitement.....
Wario: Yep.
Mona: (Giggles Awkwardly While Making her Way to the Duo Along with Penny) Sorry about that, guys.... They've been excited to see Lucas since we first heard about him.
Penny: (Smiles Sheepishly While Watching the Scene Play Out) It's kind of changeling for most of us to maintain our excitement for this long, ya know?
Ashley: It's fine. (Starts Smiling a Little at the Crowd) I'm glad they're taking a liking to him at least.
Mona: Us too.
5-Volt: (Makes her Way to the Trio While Holding a Megaphone in her Hands) Do you mind covering your ears for a second, dears? I got this covered. (Clears Her Throat Before Screaming her Heart Out on the Megaphone) QUIIIIIIEEEETTTTT!!!!!
Everyone stopped what they were doing and have their attention directly towards 5-Volt while letting Lucas go.
5-Volt: ('Sigh') Look, I'm happy to see our guest here as much as you guys are right now, but could you please start settling yourselves down before you give this poor boy a panic attack?
Everyone: Yes, ma'am......Sorry, Lucas.....
5-Volt: (Gives Lucas a Hand With a Soft Smile on her Face) We're sorry about all of that, sweetheart. Are you okay?
Lucas: (Smiles a Bit Sheepishly While Getting Back up on his Face) I'm okay, ma'am. A-And there's really no need apologize for all of that. You all just took me by surprise is all.
5-Volt: Well, as long as you're okay, allow me to properly introduce myself: My name is Mrs. 5-Volt.
Mona: (Smiles Brightly at Lucas) And I'm Mona!
Penny: (Happily Salutes to Lucas) Penny Crygor, at your service! Ashley here told us quite a lot about you as of late~
Ashley: (Eyes Widened While Blushing)
Lucas: She has?
Mona: (Happily Nodded) Mmhmm~ She told us about how much of a sweetheart you are, how much she admires you since day one....
Penny: Ooh! She even told us she has dreams of marrying you som-
Ashley: (Already Flustered in Bright Red) OKAY! How about we introduce everyone else in this room, yeah? (Gives Mona and Penny a Dark Glare) Before my patience starts to dwindle....
Mona: (Shivers in Fear by the Glare Before Giggling Awkwardly) Y-Yeah....That uh....seems to be a good idea right now, right Penny?
Penny: Yep! L-Let's Introduce everyone! (Turns to Lucas with a Bright Smile) Lucas, we want you to meet our whole gang!~ Jimmy T!
Jimmy T: Yo.
Penny: Young Cricket and Master Mantis!
Young Cricket: (Bows Towards Lucas in a Polite and Martial Arts Like Fashion Along with his Master) Please to meet you.
Penny: 9 and 18-Volt!
9-Volt: Hiya!
18-Volt: How's it going, little dude?
Penny: Dribble and Spitz!
Dribble: 'Sup, kiddo!
Spitz: Nice meet ya on this fine day, squirt!
Penny: Kat & Ana!
Kat/Ana: Kon'nichiwa!~
Penny: Our alien friend, Orbulon!
Orbulon: Greetings, young, timid youngling.
Penny: A little girl from Luxeville name Lulu!
Lulu: I'm the hero of my hometown!~
Penny: My grandpa, Dr. Crygor and his assistants, Mike and Doris 1!
Dr. Crygor: It is such a pleasure to finally meet Ashley's future hus- (Gets Startled Once He Noticed Ashley's Dark Glare) I-I-I MEAN boyfriend! Yes.... That's what I meant to say.
Mike: Greetings, Ashley's Boyfriend.
Doris 1: Hello.
Penny: And this is our new addition to the team: Pyoro!
Pyoro: (Happily Squeaks at Lucas)
Lucas: Aww~ Hi, little guy. (Pulls Out his Hand) Nice to meet- (Suddenly Felt Pyoro's Tongue Touching the Palm of his Hand For a Few Seconds Before Putting Back in his Mouth) You.....
Pyoro: (Claps his Arms Happily)
Penny: He can shoot his long tongue to any direction he wants! Neat, huh?
Lucas: (Smiles a Bit Sheepishly) Yeah. He...kind of reminds me of Yoshi in a way.
9-Volt: Hey Lucas! (,Shows Lucas a Tiny Yellow Figure Standing on the Palm of his Hands) I want you to meet my pet: Fronk!
Lucas: Oh uh. Hello, Fronk. (Pulls Out Finger as a Friendly Gesture) It's nice to meet you.
Fronk: (Uses Both of his Hands to Hold Lucas' Finger While Shaking Him Up in Down in the Mid Air Must to His Surprise) The pleasure is all mine, Master Lucas. (Finally Lowers Lucas Down) And I must say, that bowtie of yours looks magnificent on you.
Lucas: T-Thanks, Mr. Fronk....You look great too. (Turns to 9-Volt While Whispering to Him) How is he THIS strong?
9-Volt: (Smiles Sheepishly While Rubbing the Back of Head Back and Forth) I.... might've modified him to have superhuman strength.
Lucas: Woah......B-But anyways, it's really nice to finally meet you all today. My name is Lucas a-and after today......(Closes his Eyes and Shout) I-I HOPE CAN WE BE THE BESTEST OF FRIENDS!
Everyone: (Cheers in Rejoice) YEAH!!!
Ashley: (Sighs While Smiling Sheepishly at Lucas) My darling Lucas~
????: Awwwwwww~
Ashley quickly comes back to reality as her eyes begins to widened before turning around to see Mona and Penny smirking at Her In a teasing fashion.
Mona: Staring at him with that lovey-dovey eyes of yours already?~
Penny: Hmmmmmmmmm?~
Ashley: (Groans in Annoyance While Walking Away) Let's just get this picnic over with.....
An Hour and a Half Later at the Diamond City's Picnic.........
Lucas: Wait. So..... You're telling me that Wario set an entire stadium contest, mistakenly stole a portable potty, and almost cheated all of you out of your money....just to order pizza?
Penny: Yeah.....It was pretty chaotic in those a two and a half days. But at least we had good time regardless. Even after Wario tried to steal our share of the deal afterwards.
Wario: Hey! In my defense, that Gold Challenge was all my idea from the very beginning.
Mona: Yeah, but we still helped.
Everyone (Except For Lucas and Ashley) Yeah!
Lucas: I...gotta agree with them, Wario. That was a pretty jerkish move on your part.
Wario: (Crosses his While Looking Away in Annoyance) Ehh Whatever! I can always scam you losers anytime I want....
5-Volt: (Place her Hand on Wario's Shoulder While Giving him the Dark Glare Herself) What was that?
Wario: (Gets Startled) AHH! N-N-Nothing!! W-Wario didn't say anything! I swear!
5-Volt: (Sighs While Calming Herself Down) I sure hope not....
Everyone: (Giggles Softly at Wario's Dispense)
Lucas: If you don't mind me asking, when was the first all of you have met each other?
Mona: On the day we first started working with Wario. It was supposed to be one time thing, but.....oddly enough, the more we started working on the company together, the more we got more closer to one another than we ever thought we would.
Ashley: (Nodded in Agreement) It's true. While Red and I met them shortly after, our entire relationship with one another has gotten more close overtime. In fact.....(Starts Smiling Softly) Besides the Smash Family, everyone here is.... practically like a family to me. Even if they do get on my nerves sometimes.
Penny: (Heart Begins to Melt in Pure Happiness) Oh, Ashleyyyy~ (Pulls Ashley into a Loving Hug) Thank you!~
Everyone (except for Wario and Lucas) begins to join in on the group hug. Showing Ashley how much she means to each and everyone to them as well.
Ashley: ('Sigh') Thank you so much, everyone.....Now, get off.
Everyone: (Chuckles Lightly as They Pull Away From their Group Hug)
Lucas: (Chuckles Lightly) Even as co-workers, you guys managed to form a close bond with one another. You really are amazing.
9-Volt: (Smiles Brightly) Thanks, man. Ooh! Speaking of which, what's your family like back home? You know, besides the one back in the Smash World.
Wario: (Starts Choking Up on his Food a Little)
Ashley: (Eyes Widened in Horror) Oh no.....
Lucas: Oh. Well, umm....Back at my universe, I have a dad, grandfather, a really great dog named Boney, and a mom and twin brother......(Slowly Starts Frowning Sadly) Or.....at....least I used to have mother and brother.....
9-Volt: Wait. (Starts Frowning a Little in Worry) "Used to"?
Mona: (Frowns as Well) What do mean, Lucas?
Lucas: Well.....um....My mother and brother uh.... They're......gone.
Everyone: ('Gasps')
Penny: (Almost Speechless) G-Gone?
Lucas: Yeah...W-Well, I mean.... They weren't.... "gone" per say. They were....killed if anything.....
Everyone: ('GASPS')
5-Volt: (Covered her Mouth in Anguish) Oh my god.....
18-Volt: H-How!? What happened!?
Everyone: (Starts Rambling On About What is Happening Right Now)
Ashley: Everyone!
Everyone: (Stops at What They Were Doing and Turns to Ashley)
Ashley: ('Sigh') Look, I know all of you have questions in all of this, but... could you please not overwhelm Lucas here? He's been through a lot....
Lucas: (Gives Ashley a Sad Yet Reassuring Smile) It's okay, Ashley. I don't mind telling them what happened.
Ashley: Are you sure you wanna go through with this?
Mona: Yeah. You don't have to force yourself to tell us.
Lucas: (Simply Nodded) I'm sure. It's....not gonna be easy to tell, but... I'll do my best to stay strong throughout it all. (Takes a Deep Breath Before Speaking Again) Okay. So....it all started back in Tazmily Village, my hometown, it was morning time and.....
Regardless of how challenging it was in a few areas, Lucas continues to tell everyone almost everything that happened to him in the past. About Porky, the night that took his mother's live away, the disappearance of his twin brother and the sacrifice he took for Lucas in the later half of his tragedy adventure. As he told them each details, it wasn't long before tears begins to fall down on everyone's faces. Even Ashley started to shed a tear or two as she held Lucas' hand throughout the whole process. The explanation itself only lasted around fifteen minutes as Lucas mentally sighs in relief for lasting this long without breaking himself down.
Lucas: ......And that just about sums up everything that happened. It was.....a rough time for me back then. Losing love ones, getting out of a near death experience....It was a miracle dad and I managed to pull through till the very end without losing our minds. But....on the bright side....(Starts Smiling a Little) It....did taught me to be more brave and mindful over the years. And in a way, I'm kind of thankful for that, cause.... I don't think I would've become the person I am right now it weren't for that and all of the new friends and family I've made along the way. Kuma, Duster, Ness, Red, the Smash Family....(Smiles Down at Ashley) Even you, Ashley. I can't thank you enough for everything you've done for me.
Ashley: (Smiles Softly at her Boyfriend) It's really no problem at all, Lucas. If anything, I should be thanking you for being my friend to begin with....(Starts Blushing Again) A-And for being my boyfriend afterwards~ I love you for that....
Lucas: (Smiles Brightly) I love you too, Ash-
Before Lucas could finish saying his girlfriend's name, him and Ashley suddenly gets pulled into a hug by Penny, while she's still in tears.
Lucas: P-Penny!?
Ashley: (Glares at the Gender Girl) What has gotten into you!?
Penny: Sorry! ('Sniff') Didn't mean to ruin the moment. ('Sniff') My emotions are already running all over the place. So....('Sniff') I thought maybe hugging it out....('Sniff') Would help it go down a little, you know? ('Sniff')
Ashley: (Sighs While Rolling her Eyes) Whatever helps you feel better, Penny....
Penny: Thank you! ('Sniff') And Lucas?
Lucas: Y-Yeah?
Penny: ('Sniff') I'm so sorry you had to go through all of that in past and I'm so happy you're doing a lot better now. ('Sniff') And I know what it feels like to lose someone who's close to you, so....('Sniff') If you ever need someone to talk you, I'll always be there to listen and help, okay?
Dr. Crygor: (Joins in on the Group Hug) That goes for me as well, young man.
Mike: And me.
Doris 1: And for I as well.
Young Cricket: We would be honored to help you anyway we can as well.
9/18-Volt: Don't forget about us!
Kat/Ana: And us!
Lulu: And me!!
Mona: And me as well. We'll always be there for whenever you need us, Lucas. Promise.
Ashley: You guys are too helpful....Can you believe them, Lucas?.....Lucas?
Lucas: (Already in Tears) I know we just met and everything, but.... ('Sniff') I'm so glad.....('Sniff') THAT WE'RE FINALLY FRIENDSSS!~
Penny: Oh buddy! Don't cry!~
9-Volt: Yeah! Of course we're friends!~
Ashley: (Sighs Once More as She Hears her Friends Rambling on About Their Newfound Friendship) (So this is where my life has gotten to at this moment.... Being surrounded by a bunch of hyperactive fools and a cute, emotional boyfriend.....) (Smiles Softly) (I love it already.)
5-Volt: (Smiles Tearfully at the Kids Getting Along) ('Sniff') This is do sweet.....
Mantis: (Happily Nodded in Agreement) Agreed. I believe this will be a start of a beautiful friendship together.
Dribble: (Noticed Wario is Sniffing Right Beside him) Hey man, you getting emotional there too?
Wario: N-No! ('Sniff') I-I'm not crying! ('Sniff') I just got something in eye!
Spitz: Yeah? Like what?
Wario: ('Sniff') (Finally Burst Out Crying) YAHHHHHHHAHHHH!!! WHY DOES THE TWERP HAS TO BE SO SADDDDDD!
Dribble: (Starts Snickering) So much for not caring.
Spitz: (Snickering as Well) Yeah. Guess you really do have after al- (Felt Wario's Snot Coming Out on his Sleeve Before Sighing) Nevermind.....
Bonus
Ness: So.... Lucas met these guys yesterday and you're saying that ALL OF THEM wants to join the squad as well?
Ashley: (Sitting Next With All of the WarioWare Crew While Giving Ness Simple Nodded) Yes. All of them.
Mona: (Smiles Softly at the Boy) I hope you don't mind.
Ness: N-Not at all! I was just.... surprised by how many of you are there, you know? But....(Sigh Slowly Turns to Wario) Are you sure letting him join is a good idea?
Wario: (Glares at Ness) HEY! I can be nice and trustworthy as much as any of you losers in this stupid mansion! (Starts Eating his Chips While Looking Away)
Mona: (Smiles Sheepishly) W-We'll make sure he's on his best behavior.
Ashley: Yeah. (Slowly Starts Moving Herself Over to Ness) We'll...make definite sure about that....(Whispers into Ness' Ears) Write his name in the Unofficial category. I don't trust him one bit.
Ness: (Whispers Back to Ashley) Neither do I. (Writes Down Wario Name Down his Clipboard Before Smiling Brightly at the Gang) Welcome aboard, guys!
Everyone: (Happily Cheers in Rejoice)
@26shann
@keyenuta
@caleb13frede
@cyber-wildcat
@ma-lemons
@albion-93
@illyrilex
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hamiltonimagines · 4 years ago
Text
Written in the Stars
Pairing: Lin x Reader
Summary: Lin and Y/N went to New Orleans for Halloween. Lin convinces Y/N that they should go see a palm reader. Let’s just say the news they receive is a little shocking
This imagine is a part of my Halloween themed series, you can read the complete series here🎃
Disclaimer: I wrote this imagine about palm reading, which I know absolutely nothing about it. I wrote about it in a way that worked for my story. I am not trying to falsely describe how palm reading works. I’m also not telling whether you should believe in palm reading or not. My goal is not to offend anyone.
Word Count: 1.2k
“Come on Y/N, what do I have to do to convince you to go in there with me?” Lin asked me. “You can’t convince me, I don’t believe in it. Palm reading is totally made up. Nothing about the lines on my hand mean anything in terms of my future” I argued.
“But we’re in New Orleans, on an amazing vacation. It’s our last night here and it’s Halloween. Please, let’s go see a palm reader. If you don’t believe in it, then we’ll just move on with our lives afterward. What harm can it do?” He asked me. “Fine, let’s do this” I said, giving up.
“Success” he cheered, grabbing my hand and pulling me into the palm reading shop. It couldn’t do any harm, right?
Lin was my best friend. We met back in college and we had decided to go to New Orleans this year for Halloween. Since it was Halloween, Lin had been really excited about everything concerning voodoo and magic.
The truth was, I wasn’t really a skeptic. I totally believed that some people had some form of power to know things they shouldn’t of known. The problem was, I had the biggest crush on Lin, and I was terrified that this palm reader would know that.
“Hello welcome. I sense that we have a skeptic in our midst. I’ll go get my equipment and I’ll be right back. You two can sit at this table” the woman said, and then disappeared behind a curtain.
“See” Lin told me, trying to prove that this woman was legit. “See what? So, she can read my facial expressions? Big deal” I said, brushing it off. Lin and I sat down at the table she had told us to sit at.
My hands were so sweaty, I was absolutely terrified. I wiped the sweat off of my hands on to my jeans. “Are you nervous that I’ll be right and she’ll know your deepest darkest secrets?” Lin asked me. “Oh please, it’s just hot in here. That’s it” I said, dismissing his comment.
“Alright I’m back” the woman said, as she sat down at the opposite side of the table. “So here’s the big question, who wants to go first?” She asked, simply. “Oh he definitely wants to go first” I said, volunteering Lin to go before me.
“Someone is stalling” he whispered to me, and then laughed to himself. I rolled my eyes and played along. Lin rolled up his sleeve and laid his arm on the table, palm up.
“Alright, let’s see what we find” the woman said. She ran her thumb over Lin’s palm, and seemed to be inspecting it. “This line here means that you will have a big success soon” the woman stated.
“You hear that Y/N, I’m going to be successful” he whispered to me. “What else is new?” I asked, giggling.
“If you look at the way that these two lines intersect, it means that you will meet your true love when you are 22 years old” the woman said.
I was fully panicking now. Lin and I were both 22 years old when we met. I was hoping that Lin wouldn’t notice that though. “Wow, I’ve already met my true love. You can’t just tell me who it is, can you?” Lin asked, chuckling to himself. “No, I’m afraid, that isn’t my specialty” she said, continuing to read his palm.
I was racking my brain for any excuse to leave. Once she got to my hand, she would find something that would make Lin understand that I liked him. And what if I was his true love? Then Lin would totally notice when it said I met my true love at the same age. Either way, I was completely doomed.
“Alright, now it is time to read your palm” the woman said, holding her hand out for mine. “Are you sure we don’t have anywhere to be?” I asked Lin. “Nope, you’re getting your palm read, whether you like it or not. I’ll hold your hand if you’re nervous” Lin teased. “Haha you’re so funny” I said, sarcastically.
I laid my arm on the table. I felt the woman’s warm hand grab ahold of mine. “Oh well that’s very interesting” she said, to herself. “What is? Do you see something?” I asked her, desperately. “I thought you didn’t believe in this, huh?” Lin teased me.
“Give me your hand” the woman told Lin. He held out his hand again. “Do you see this line right here on her hand?” The woman asked, and pointed at my hand. We both nodded. “Well the exact same line is on your hand” she said, pointing at Lin’s hand this time.
“Well what does that mean?” Lin asked her.
“Only soulmates share identical marks on their hands” the woman said, simply.
I completely froze. What was I supposed to do? What was I supposed to say? Nothing in life had ever prepared me for this.
“Oh whatever, this is totally just made up” I said, dismissing it. I quickly walked out of the shop. As soon as I was outside, I started to walk down the street.
I had to get as far away from Lin as I could. I couldn’t bear to look at his face. I didn’t want to see the disappointment in his eyes.
I heard sprinting behind me. I turned and saw Lin running after me. I looked away and sped up walking.
“Y/N, just hold on a second” he said, still trying to catch up. Eventually, he caught up and stepped in front of me to stop me.
“Just stop” he said grabbing my wrists and staring into my eyes. “You don’t have to do this, you don’t have to pretend to be excited. I know that you’ll end up avoiding me and you’ll slowly stop talking to me. You don’t have to pretend” I rambled.
“Hey, just breathe and calm down” he told me, calmly. “How can I be calm? I just found out I’m going to lose my best friend” I explained to him.
“Why would you ever lose me? I thought you didn’t even believe in palm reading” He asked me. “Well I lied, I totally believe in it. And I knew that she would know that I’m in love with you. And I was right, she did know. And now you know and you won’t want to be friends anymore” I explained.
“Can you slow down and take a breath for me? I promise I am not going to leave you or stop being your friend. Did you forget about when she said I met my true love? The exact age I met you. I’m willing to bet that if we went back in there, she would say you met your true love at the same age. I’ve known that I loved you since the first day we met. Did you ever stop to think that I liked you back?” He asked me.
“Wait hold on, do you really mean that? You’re not just saying it?” I asked, in shock. He chuckled to himself and then said “Accept it, I love you back. We’re written in the stars Y/N”.
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muertawrites · 4 years ago
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Uhhhhh just so you know I would definitely be all over you writing something about soft emotional sexy times with zuko maybe a bit angsty because this mans would so overwhelmed with affection
Like Real People Do (Zuko x Reader) [nsfw]
Word Count: 700
Author's Note: This fic is inspired directly by the post I made about everyone's headcanons about Zuko being a sex cryer and wanting to cry with someone during sex about all the affection you've both been deprived of being a kink. Also inspired by the song Like Real People Do by Hozier, another man I love with my entire heart. If a man doesn't love me like a Hozier song, he doesn't love me at all, and that's on periodt, luv. (Other song recommendations for reading include the acoustic version of All Around Me by Flyleaf and Innocence by Avril Lavigne, because I am still a 2009 emo kid.)
- Muerta
Zuko kisses you as he slides inside you, a ritual he’s never broken. Moments like these mean more than sex; they're time spent truly connected with one another, as close as you can possibly be in a world only inhabited by the two of you. His fingers weave between yours on the sheets beside your head, his entire length filling you as easily as if he were another part of yourself.
He takes his time with you, moving slowly and delicately, pressing his forehead to yours and never pulling away. He continues kissing you as he repeatedly parts the flesh between your thighs, the heat of his naked chest against yours warming you better than any flame. His lips are tender, soft, tasting bitter like ginseng and sweeter than the richest honey. With his arms around you, his body forming walls of sturdy brick to house your battered soul, you feel safer than anywhere else.
Zuko cherishes each breath that escapes you, releasing in synch with the deep, thoughtful pace of his hips. Even something as seemingly average as sex was momentous, a privilege that neither of you allowed to anyone else who laid claim to your hearts - at least, never in a sense as intimate as this. Everything he gave, you accepted willingly, and he the same for you; the cruelty of your pasts could never shadow how unconditionally you felt for each other - the intense, innate kind of love neither of you thought you'd ever have.
For some reason, as Zuko lowers his face to kiss your neck, you're reminded of this - of how harshly the universe treated you, making you stronger than you thought you could be before sending you the greatest tenderness you'd ever known. The ache in your chest that became so familiar returns, soothed by Zuko’s presence surrounding you. You start to cry, tears bubbling in your eyes and rolling down your cheeks onto the mattress before you can stop them.
“Turtleduck?” Zuko murmurs, leveling himself once more so he can look you in the eye; one of his hands raises, running through your hair. “What's wrong?”
His pet name for you brings on more tears, your face contorting under a tidal wave of emotion as you shake your head. Your connection with each other is such that he doesn't have to ask any more; he simply buries his face into your neck, slowing himself further but not stopping, using his ginger pace to further ease you. He soon feels overcome himself, the same expressions of grief and joy rolling through him, causing his shoulders to heave under your grip; his tears pour onto your skin, your fingers digging into his back as you attempt to bring him even closer, a feat which isn't possible.
After a few moments, Zuko regains himself, adjusting and insistently pressing his lips to yours. He keeps himself locked with you this way - kissing you, forearms propped beside your head and fingers knotted in your hair - as he sheaths himself completely inside you, hardly removing himself yet still repeatedly hitting the muscle just beneath your stomach. You tighten around him, thighs squeezing around his hips as he edges you closer to oblivion, both of you continuing to weep silent tears onto each other’s cheeks.
“I love you,” Zuko whispers between kisses. “I'm all yours…”
His amorous ministrations bring you to your peak, the tension inside you releasing in a rushing current that curls your toes and sends you floating. You don't close your eyes; instead, you lose them within his, the reflections within them shimmering like stars in a midnight sky. He isn't far behind you, burying himself to the hilt as he spills out inside you with a rapturous moan and a few panting, heated breaths. You take his face in your hands, kissing the creased, rippling skin of his left cheek.
Zuko stays within you for a long while afterward, savoring the feeling of your bodies knitted together. He runs his thumbs over your cheeks, wiping away your tears and replacing them with his own kisses. You take his hand in yours, kissing his knuckles and whispering your own “I love you”s, knowing well that they don't have to be said to be understood.
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jougogo · 4 years ago
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tsukki, iwa, daichi, kuroo, sakusa, akaashi, and shibayam with an s/o who’s afraid of needles getting a flu shot
a/n: wrote this in honor of me getting of me getting my flu shot yesterday and NOT CRYING FOR THE FIRST TIME WOW WE LOVE GROWTH
characters: tsukishima kei, hajime iwaizumi, sawamura daichi, kuroo tetsuro, sakusa kiyoomi, akaashi keiji, shibayama yuuki
tw: mentions of needles
tsukishima
"kei, i don't like needles," you whined
"well, you still have to get them. are you really this weak? i thought you were stronger," he responded nonchalantly
ok that pissed you off
"HMPHH I'LL PROVE IT TO YOU" 
but once you were on the seat with the shiny syringe right in front of you?
all that confidence was g o n e 
"remember, you said you'd prove it to me." he smirked
you gulped and shut your eyes tightly
you could've sworn you felt his hand rest on your thigh as the shot was administered
you don't know what you were expecting, but the sting was only momentary and within a couple seconds, you were finished.
"ouch." you quietly yelped.
"see, you were just being a dramatic. tsk, weakling," he flicked your forehead
nurse looked kinda concerned ngl
but afterwards he'll carry your bags for you and open the doors bc he's proud
"good job, my weakling,"
"tsukki istg"
iwaizumi
iwa knew about your fear of needles
he found out when he noticed you grip the pushpin tightly between your fingers everytime you have to pin sticky notes to the corkboard you had above your desk
so when it was flu shot season, he'll def volunteer to get it done together w you
iwa bby being such a gentlemen gahh i cant
i can see oikawa as someone who was prob also afraid of needles, so iwa knew how to handle situations like this
"iwa-chan but they're pricking my arm and i'm gonna be numb how am i going to practice volley-"
 b o n k 
"get over it brattykawa"
jkjk he'll be so gentle and patient with you
"hey hey it's okay, dont look at the needle. look at me" he turned your face towards his, cupping your cheek to prevent you from seeing the syringe from your peripheral vision
you gazed into his pretty green eyes. 
oh, how they resembled a lush rainforest, full of tropical plants and-
before you could even realize it, the needle jabbed into your tender arm
"ouch," you groaned, leaning your head against his muscled chest.
"see, you did it!" he congratulated you, his lips curving into a small smile as he patted your head
he rolled up the sleevs of his t-shirt to reveal gloriously toned beefy biceps as the nurse administered his flu shot
ok this view is def worth the pain
as expected, he took it like a champ. manz didn't even tense up
afterwards he'll take you out for ice cream hehe
daichi 
when you confessed to daichi about your fear, he was so confused
"but i see you sewing stuff all the time?"
"dai that's different im not sticking the needle in my body bro"
ohhh ok ok now he gets it
he'll be so supportive the entire time!
"hey, i know you'll do great, okay? you're the bravest person i've ever met. you dont think a little thin piece of metal will get to you, do you baby?" he whispered reassuring words into your ear and brushing a stray piece of hair away from your face
when it was time for the nurse to give you the shot, you curled your body towards him ever-so-slightly
but he noticed and he thought it was the cutest thing
"hey, i'll protect you, don't worr-" he was cut off
you were gripped his shirt tightly in your fist and wincing at the pain
"ow ow ow" you mumbled into his shoulders as you felt the sting
"you're doing so good, sweetheart," he ran his hand up and down your back, attempting to sooth you
when it's all finally over he'll drive you over to his place so he can cuddle and "protect" you from the scary movie he very conveniently insisted on playing.
kuroo
"babe, you know you have to get your flu shot. what if you accidentally pass a deadly flu to my grandpa? you'd have to stop coming over to my house,"
your loving boyfriend kuroo was currently trying to get you to release your tight grip from the front door of your house
"i don't want to get your grandpa sick, but i don't want to have a needle poke me," you wailed, tears flowing down your cheek
he got tired and just carried you in his strong arms to the car and drove to the hospital, despite your protests
"THIS IS KIDNAPPING TETSU, YOU CAN'T DO THIS TO ME," you screamed
he just whistled and rolled down the windows so everyone can hear
ofc, you shut up right then and there
"i'll get you back for this," you hissed
once you got to the hospital, you had no other choice but to oblige to kuroo as he dragged you through the halls to the vaccination rooms
the nurse was kind, but your heart was pounding
"te-tetsu, will you hold my hand" you whimpered when the nurse went to retrieve the tray
"of course, babygirl", he replied, putting his hands on top of your trembling ones
his large hands completely enveloped yours
when the nurse pricked the syringe into your arm, he squeezed your hands
"see, that wasn't too bad, right?"
"yeah, whatever" *sniffle sniffle*
also the type to take you for ice cream afterwards.
sakusa
"you may not come near me until you have received your flu shot," your beloved boyfriend declared
"omi omi but i need you. and also we were just cuddling this morning bruh" you pouted. "please please please will you come with me" *cue the puppy eyes*
"fine" he grunted. 
at the hospital he refuses to sit next to you, insisting that he stands def not bc he's concerned abt the germs on the seat
when you froze upon seeing the needle, he put one of his big hands on your shoulder
"you can hold my hand," 
"really?"
"don't make me take it back"
"okie"
you put your other hand on top of his, your arm draping across your body
his fingers intertwined around yours and clasped it when you winced at the pain
he'll draw you a bath when you get home and wash your body for you!!
so sweet and loving 10/10 experience
akaashi
you were currently hiding under a desk
specifically, the doctor's desk
"my love. it's no use if you hide, we're already here," akaashi sighed
he spent the last 2 hours dragging you to the nearest clinic for a flu shot
"you need to protect yourself so you don't get hurt," he had explained calmly
only for you, his sassy s/o to retort
"so why are you dragging me to a clinic just so i can get punctured by a needle? isn't that like, pain? which im supposed to protect myself from?"
someone help this poor bby boy
but somehow he had managed to lure you into the clinic
"alright. this is the last level i have to conquer. and then everything should be fine again" he thought to himself.
just the shot. just a lil pinch. right?
w r o n g
you were hysterical and sobbing
frankly, he felt really bad. but this had to happen at some point, right? after all, your fear of needles had started since you were a child. he was bound to have experienced something like this, as your dutiful boyfriend
he actually felt really bad
so he turned to the method that has worked for him time and time again to sooth his anxiety
"here, play with my fingers, it'll distract you" he reached out his hand to you and helped you out from under the desk
it worked!!
when the nurse came back, he rubbed the back of your hand,  a silent "im here for you"
definitely lots of comfort and cuddles afterward!
"see, that wasn't so bad, was it?"
shibayama
the syringe was right in front of you and the nurse was currently disinfecting your arm with the alcohol wipe.
when he saw you tense up at the touch, he'll whisper lots of reassuring words into your ears 
"hey. you got this, i promise! it'll just be a little sting, and the pain is only temporary."
when he saw tears welling up in your eyes, he'll swipe them away with his thumb, caressing your cheeks.
"make me proud," 
how could you say no to his puppy eyes?? 
"i'll try, yuuki," you sniffled
he put his hand on your shoulder, gently drumming his fingers to the tune of your favorite song to help distract you
his other hand rubbing your palm
after everything's done, he'll give the bandaid little kisses!! 
awwww he's trying to kiss ur pain away my sweet baby
he wants you to know that even through pain, he'll be there by your side.
will take you out for ice cream pt.3
tags!!: @aka-a-shii (anna thank you for getting me into writing i hope i did akaashi justice), @toshisgarden (ily big sis mwah) @gigis-galaxy(bc ILY GIGI)
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formeandmyfics · 4 years ago
Text
JUGENEA FAN FICTION TRY IT AGAIN
It was unexpected, but inevitable. And it’s not how they expected it to be, but in the end,  forced them to reveal their true feelings. 
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1942
Gene Kelly took a long drag of his cigarette as he walked down the streets of Metro. The large studio lights illuminated the line of stars’ trailers, currently vacant, outside each sound stage. It was quiet. Only overnight crew and a few actors, like himself, were still at work at this time.
One of the dance rehearsals with Judy had run late, so Gene’s meetings with Arthur Freed, then his PR, started late. When he was done, Gene grabbed a quick bite at the commissary, and soon found his earlier fatigue, from the long day at work, had turned into wired energy. So, he went to an empty dance hall and worked on his own choreography.
He made his way to the small parking lot outside of the East sound stages, where For Me and My Gal was being filmed. Smashing out his cigarette with his foot, he unlocked his car and got in. When he shut the door, he mindlessly looked over and noticed Judy’s car, two spots over, in her reserved parking space. More importantly, she was sitting inside of it, in the dark, alone.
Gene let out a heavy breath through his nostrils before he reached for the door handle and got out.
Judy had her head resting against her hand, leaning on the car door, as tears rolled down her cheeks. When her passenger side door opened, she raised her head startled. Without a word, Gene got in and shut the door. Judy immediately relaxed when she saw it was him, but when his worried eyes met her sad ones, she started weeping again and went back to her original position. She needen’t hide, nor pretend, around Gene. He had become a new, kind-of-best-friend lately and she trusted him immensely.
He scooted a little closer on the leather seat and swept a curl away from her damp cheek, “I thought you left a long time ago, sunshine.”
She shook her head and looked down at his pocket, “Do you have a hanker chief?”
Gene reached into his pocket and pulled one out, gladly offering it to her. He watched as she carefully wiped her tears away, clearing the dribbled, black mascara away from her porcelain skin. Afterwards, she just fiddled the cloth around her fingers, as they rest on her lap. She was unusually quiet.
He cleared his throat before he spoke in an exaggerated cowboy accent, “So ma’am, what’s seems to be the problem here?”
Surprised, Judy laughed and dabbed the left over tears away before giving him back his hanker chief. Gene always knew how to make her feel better.
“Why are you crying?”
“A lot of reasons, I guess.”
“Want to talk about it?”
She turned towards him reaching for his hand. Something Gene had learned early on when meeting her was that she was a very physical person. When she was comfortable with someone, she always loved affectionate contact: holding hands, a hug, a playful poke, a comforting hand on the back. He’d seen her affection shared with many people, but noticed she did it with him more often lately.
“I’m just feeling really stressed right now.”
“Work?”
“That’s part of it.”
“Berkeley was an ass tonight in rehearsals.”
Judy sighed frustrated as she lowered the mirror to check her face, “He’s always an ass.”
“Yeah, but tonight he was an extra ass.”
Judy nodded agreeing and sat up straighter, “He’s still treating me the same way he treated me when I was a kid…and before you say I still am a kid, swallow that joke, Mr. Kelly, I ain’t in the mood.”
“Oh, you’re not. Well, funny for you, I wasn’t going to call you a kid. I was going to call you old.”
“Oh,” Judy giggled, “You know,” she joked pretending she was his 30, not 20, “I’m only ten years older than you. That’s not too much of a difference.”
“That’s an entire decade, Grandma.”
Judy laughed gleefully, “Does that mean I can call you Grandpa?”
“Not until the dentures are settled. So, how is Buzz treating you the same?”
“Oh, talking down to me, overworking me, not caring what I have to say. You heard him tonight.”
“And I told him to back off.”
“I know you did. And I appreciate it, darling, but he’s never going to change.”
“Then why are you letting it bother you so much? You should know how he is by now.”
“It’s not only him. It’s…I’m just trying to get used to things. I haven’t even reached the legal drinking age and my marriage is already failing. I’ll probably be a divorced woman by next year if things continue the way they are. The worst part is, my house is being renovated so I’m temporarily living back home with my mother and her hu…” She paused with disgust thinking about Mr. Gilmore,“That man.”
Gene nodded. He was well aware of the estranged relationship Judy and Ethel had and everything that went into it.
“She’s treating me worse than when she did before I moved into Davids house. She blames me for my marriage problems. And she doesn’t think anything was wrong when she agreed to my…” she paused a moment as it was very hard for her to talk about as it only had happened months ago, “…When she allowed the studio to - well, take care of my condition.”
Gene looked down solemnly. He was well aware of that, too.
Judy started crying again, “I’m just going through a lot.”
“Can you maybe move into a hotel temporarily?”
“I can’t. The studio handles my money and Mr. Mayer won’t pay for it. He thinks it’s best I’m back at home for the time being with Dave away. If I’m at home, I will be a ‘good girl.’”
Gene raised his eyebrow skeptically. Everyone knew Judy loved the social life, the nightlife and glam of it all. He had heard about her on-and-off again escapades with Johnny Mercer. Their relationship had not been a secret. Judy wouldn’t bring anyone back to her mother’s house, that was true, but she was a grown woman, possibly a soon-divorced woman. If she wanted to date, her current living situation wasn’t going to stop her. Gene was surprised that LB didn’t know Judy better than that.
Gene enjoyed becoming one of the new ‘shoe in’ at Ciro’s. It was Judy who first invited him out, and now he was always a regular at her table. He made his way around other tables, of course, but hers always had the most laughter. She loved to laugh, and wanted to laugh. She never tried to make other’s laugh, but she was so naturally witty and funny and a bit naughty, that everyone cracked up. That was the best part of going out after a long day at the studio. It also made him forget about the dissatisfaction that he’d encounter once back at home. What he first experienced with his young wife, early on, was now fizzling out. And in New York, she loved going out, now she was a homebody. He, in turn, had become the opposite since moving to LA.
Judy and Gene’s friendship had grown deep as they spent long hours working together. Gene helped Judy with choreography and she picked it up quickly. She helped him get used to a movie set, and how everything worked, since he only knew a Broadway stage. Their comfort with each other resulted in confiding each other in their personal lives.
He knew Judy was strong, but she was sensitive. A step backwards, like living with her mother, and having Busby Berkeley treat her like a 13-year-old, was not good for her mental health. Judy Garland’s mental health was very important in regards to her work, everyone knew that and was careful about it. One bad day in her personal life could lead to days of her absence on set.Gene knew that wasn’t good for her either. It would just lead to more stress.
Gene reached over her to turn off her ignition.
“What are you doing?”
“Come with me. You’re going to a hotel.”
“But I just told you…”
“I’ll pay for it. I’ll pay for your stay for the rest of the week. We’ll use your alias.”
Judy blinked a few times surprised, “Are you sure? What will Betsy say? Those charges?”
“She doesn’t look at the finances. And even if she did, it doesn’t matter. I’m helping out a friend. Leave your car here.”
“Why?”
“Because you don’t want your car recognized at the hotel. Have the studio car pick you up in the morning.
“What about what my mothers says, or the studio?”
He looked at her almost disgusted, “Who cares what your mother thinks. She doesn’t control you. And as long as you show up to work, the studio shouldn’t care.”
“And if they do,” she said meekly.
“Then they can go fuck themselves.”
Judy smiled, amused at is candor, “Easier said than done. But I need to pack. I hope to God my mother is asleep.”
Fortunately, the house was asleep when Gene pulled up. Judy was gone for 15 minutes before she came back out with a large suitcase. When they pulled up to the Beverly Hills hotel, she wrapped her head in a scarf and put on sunglasses as Gene put on his baseball hat. He wasn’t as recognizable as her, not yet anyway, but still wanted to stay incognito.
Judy stayed a distance from the desk as Gene got her a room. He refused help from the bellboy, for privacy reasons, and took her suitcase himself. As they went up the elevator, Gene looked over and noticed a tear sliding down from under her sunglasses. It saddened him so. He didn’t want to leave her like that.
When they got to the room, Judy went straight into the bathroom with a small makeup case. He paced around checking things out a bit. When he passed the bathroom, which was slightly a jar, he heard a bottle rattling. He peeked in and watched as she took something. He figured it was a sleeping pill. That would do her good, tonight at least.
When she returned, she fussed around a bit before grabbing a bottle of champagne from the ice box. Gene made himself comfortable on the couch as he watched her. Mixing alcohol and medication wasn’t the best cocktail under normal circumstances but tonight he would let it slide. It would definitely relax her until she fell asleep. When she handed him a glass, he accepted it. She sat next to him and curled her legs underneath her but remained quiet. They didn’t talk much and she didn’t get sleepy. After she finished her glass, she went about doing little things like unpacking then rearranging things to her liking. She started to go about almost nervously as Gene observed her. A sleeping pill was a sedative, it calmed the nervous system, so why was she acting like this?
Skeptically, Gene got up and went into the bathroom. He went though her bag and the only bottle he saw was Dexedrine. That medication was a ‘pep pill’ used by the studio for their cast and crew. He used them occasionally. They were also used for depression and he assumed Judy had taken it for that reason tonight. He had heard around, confidentially from other friends of hers, that sometimes she took one too many, and that once and a while had an reverse affect on her which made her personality change. Putting the bottle back, he needed to get her calm and to bed.
“Judy, why don’t you go to bed?”
He stepped back into the living room and saw her frantically rummaging through the complimentary records as if she knew what she was looking for. She didn’t have a clue.
Judy sniffled, “I’m not sleepy.”
“Come on, honey, you need some rest.”
He took a hold of her hand and she immediately calmed at his touch, “Stay with me?”
Gene looked down avoiding her eyes a moment, “Go get into your pajamas and I’ll help you go to sleep.”
After she was in pajamas and crawled into bed, she asked Gene to come into the bedroom and turn on the radio. One thing Gene also had learned was Judy despised quiet. She always had a record or radio on, even in her dressing room.
As light jazz softly swooned in the background, Judy tried getting comfortable, “I think you had the right idea calling me Grandma, Genie. My muscles are so sore,” she giggled.
Gene got onto the bed and had her turn so he could massage her shoulders. She didn’t hesitate or question him and relaxed into it right away, “Gene?”
“Hm?”
“Why do you like me - as a person?”
He stopped rubbing for a second and paused thinking, “There’s so many reasons. You only want one?”
He couldn’t see it, but he knew she smiled, “Only one.”
“You’re a breath of fresh air.”
She turned around to face him, intrigued, “What do you mean by that?”
“Because every time I see you, I feel like I can breathe again. This business ain’t easy.”
“Is it only work that makes you feel like you can’t breathe?”
For a moment they stared deep in each others eyes. She had told him more about her personal issues than he had told her, but she did know he wasn’t exactly happy in his marriage.
“No, it’s not only work,” he said as he had her turn back around and continued with her massage.
“Gene,” she asked again softly.
“Hm?”
“Why do you think I’m a breath of fresh air?”
“You just are. You’re personality, your energy, your smile, your laugh, especially your laugh…I just adore you is all.”
After a moment, he heard her sob again, before she murmured, “At least someone does.”
He immediately turned her back to face him and put his hands on her cheeks, “Judy, do you know how many people adore you? Sweetheart, open your eyes. You are loved by so many people.”
“I meant by a man.”
Gene chuckled, “Now you’re just fishing.”
“They ‘love’ Judy Garland, Gene, not me, not Frances Gumm.”
His smile faded at her seriousness understanding now,“Well, I do. I love you for you, not your name.”
“I know you do. That’s why I trust you so much.”
She put her hand in his and sensually rubbed his skin with her thumb before she looked up at him with those big, brown eyes.
“I adore you, too.”
He couldn’t break her stare as she leaned in and kissed him. She didn’t even give him a chance to pull back before she got up on her knees wrapping her arms around his neck pushing her tongue against his. For a moment he accepted, and embraced her, passionately kissing her back. When his tongued slid into her welcoming one, she pulled him back so they could lay down together. But Gene immediately grabbed her arms and pulled back breaking their kiss. It was no secret to himself that he would make love to her if their lives were under different circumstances, but right now he didn’t want to upset her. In such a sensitive state, he didn’t want make her go into a panic, so he kissed her cheek to smooth the rejection.
“Judy, I’ll stay with you, but only until you fall asleep, alright?” She just stared at him blankly. He laid her down and covered her up affectionately, “I want you to be well.”
“Will you lay down next to me?”
He hesitated a second before he nodded and layed down on the covers next to her.
Gene groaned pleasurably, his own moan waking him up. He opened his eyes and the room was dark except for the light glow of a lamp in the living room. He was disoriented a moment, remembering where he was, but when he felt pleasurable tingles rise up his groin and felt movement, he knew exactly where he was.
Suddenly her body was snuggled up next to him and he felt her deep kisses along his neck as her hand continued to arouse him, sensually moving up and down, then with little twists. ‘She knew hot to give a hand job,’ he quickly thought, as he suddenly felt his hard-on twitch in her hand. No, it wasn’t right. Trying to move her off of him, she fought him and kissed his lips as her hand became faster.
“We both want this.”
Her voice sounded so innocent, yet so seductive, at the same time. Gene tried to swallow his groan as he felt as hard as he could be. The pressure was unbearable yet so erotically stimulating. Judy let go of him and looped a leg over his torso. Straddling him, she kissed him passionately all the while teasingly gliding her hips against his. Gene gave in a moment, as his hands got lost in her hair, pushing her head closer to his as their tongues mated again. But when his lower lip smacked back from hers, he gently pushed her back away from his mouth once again.
His voice was breathless but stern, “Judy, no. We can’t do this.”
When he put his hands on her sides to lift her off of him he realized she was naked. As he went to lift her off, she grabbed him and lifted her hips sliding down onto him in one swift move.
Suddenly Gene became still. He didn’t know how to react. How could something so very wrong feel so fucking good? And it wasn’t just the sex, it was that it was her. *She* felt so good. Judy braced her hands against his chest and glided back and forth on him smoothly at a steady pace. She was so warm, so tight and silky. And it was her, it was Judy. He just laid there in a bit of passionate shock until she brought his hands up to her breasts.
“Touch me.”
He complied and when he felt her full breasts, he started to get into it more, losing his restraint slowly. Feeling her hardened peaks, he felt another shot of pleasure hit his cock, and he quietly groaned. As his thumbs teased her, she groaned. That whimper from her lips did something to him, he felt his heart melt and his libido lost all self control. He practically growled as he hurriedly flipped her over onto her back staying inside of her. Judy moaned desperately as her back fell against the mattress.
Gene wasted no time and let his body take over as he moved against her in long, rough strokes. Her head sunk deep into the pillow as he was the one that passionately kissed her now. She grabbed the skin on his muscled back and pulled him closer with each matched thrust. Their sounds were parallel as their bodies tensed up. Gene wanted to get deeper inside of her, to climb inside, she was making him feel heavenly. When her body started to tighten, Gene pulled back, getting up on his knees and braced his hands on her hips wanting to make her feel as good as he was. He felt all the veins about to pop in his body as her whimpers became more intense with each thrust. He couldn’t really see her but he heard her hands hit the head board before her body started milking him wildly. After a few more thrusts Gene let out a deep, and desperate groan, before quickly pulling his body from hers, releasing on her tummy.
The clock read 4:30 am when Gene woke up. He looked next to him and Judy was peacefully sleeping, and thankfully wearing her pajamas again. He was fully dressed too except his trousers were still undone. Gene sighed and got up. After getting washed up a bit, he went back to wake up Judy for work. Before he shook her, he saw the empty champagne bottle laying on its side on the vanity. She must’ve drank the whole bottle when he fell asleep. She had been drunk.
Drunk. Desperate. Vulnerable. Medicated.
Rubbing his hand over his face, Gene sighed and looked back over at her.
Shit.
Getting up some courage, he woke her up, “Judy, Judes, wake up.”
“Hm?” She squinted looking at him, “Gene, what are you doing here?”
Yep, just as Gene expected.
“Honey, I brought you to the hotel. You were upset remember? I fell asleep. I’ll make you some tea. We gotta go to work. Do you want to get ready here or at the studio?”
“What time is it?”
“4:30.”
“When I get to the studio, I’ll just take a quick shower in my trailer.” She sat up swinging her legs over the bed and immediately held onto the sides of the mattress, “Oh my gosh, ok, hold on I’m spinning.”
“Just take it easy. You drank a little too much champagne last night. I’ll get some tea started.”
He walked the door but stopped when she responded quizzically, “I did?”
“A whole bottle too much,” he nodded towards the bottle and slightly smiled before he walked out so she could get ready to go.
The two discussed their upcoming scenes for work as they drove to the studio, but spoke of nothing else. When they pulled into the east gate of MGM, Judy finally spoke up about the previous night.
“Gene, are you ok with what happened last night?”
Gene accidentally hit his breaks to hard as they stopped behind a line of cars at the guard gate. He looked at her surprised, “What do you mean by that?”
Judy shrugged, “The way I acted. I was having a bad night and I had too much champagne and…”
Gene waited…
“...I kissed you.”
Gene was whistled by the guard to pull up which he did. Seeing Judy, the guard waved them by without asking for ID’s.
She went on, “I’m sorry about that, if it made you uncomfortable.”
Gene chuckled, “Judy, never be sorry for kissing me, and no it did not make me uncomfortable. You remember that?”
“Yeah. I remember you stopping me.”
“I want you to know, I didn’t stop you because I didn’t enjoy it. I…look, Judy just, let’s just have a good day at work, alright?”
Judy nodded and smiled friendly, but furrowed her eyebrows at his sudden anxiety.
The two did a quick rehearsal of their ‘Ballin The Jack’ number marking the steps with lighting before the cameras started rolling.
“Anddddd Action!”
When Buzz yelled, Gene and Judy started their scene and marched onto the stage and started their number. Judy’s body had the steps down without her even having to think or focus on it, lucky for her because her mind was elsewhere. She was smiling but she fell into a day dream and started remembering things from last night. Slowly, flashes of her and Gene sleeping together, and how it felt, came flooding to her mind. As she started to realize they had sex, her steps started faltering.
Still moving, she looked at Gene almost horrified, shocked. Gene looked at her confused at first, but when he saw her angry eyes, his steps faltered as well and he knew she remembered.
“Cut!”
They both stopped and stared at each other.
“What the hell are you two doing?! Focus, focus!”
Judy ignored her director and turned walking off stage.
“Judy! Where are you going?! JUDY”
Gene then started to walk off himself and put his finger up to Buzz telling him to give them a minute.  
As Gene walked towards Judy’s dressing room, she was standing in the doorway holding the doorknob waiting for him. He felt his stomach turn as he walked past her. When the door slammed behind him, his eyes shut.
“I am going to ask you one question,” Gene nodded waiting but didn’t turn around to look at her, “Did we…”
She didn’t even have to ask the rest before Gene quickly answered, “Yes.”
When he heard her voice quiver with an embarrassed whimper he turned around, “Judy.”
“Why didn’t you tell me?”
“I was going to. I just didn’t know when or how to tell you. You didn’t remember this morning. It was a…,” he suddenly got defensive, “I didn’t take advantage of you, Judy.”
“No, I remember. I’m the one who seduced you. I got drunk and I forced you.”
“Oh, Christ,” he shouted not wanting her to think that either, “You didn’t force me. You may have started it but believe me, I finished us off.”
Her cheeks turned red.
“You should have still told me. Don’t you think I deserved to know what we did?”
“After how you were last night, you were so depressed, I didn’t want anything to upset you again. I figured you’d end up remembering, I just didn’t expect it to be while filming.”
He was now the one to blush.
“Did you know I was drunk?”
“No, not until this morning, but in your own defense you wanted us to make love before you drank most of that bottle.”
Judy turned around crossing her arms almost ashamed and corrected him, “We didn’t make love.”
“No, I guess not,” he said, looking down, his hands in his pockets.
She sat in her make up chair and looked at him through the reflection. He looked at her back, both with a bit of a blank stare.
“Are you embarrassed?”
“No. Just a little disappointed that I don’t remember it as much as I should.”
“What do you remember,” he asked and she swore she saw a little twinkle in his eye.
Judy smiled, feeling a little flushed, as she looked away from his eyes, “I remember feeling good,” she looked up at him now with her own sparkle, “Do you think I felt good?”
There was that innocent, yet seductive, voice again. Gene felt his arousal stir and he quickly sat down on the daybed for composure.
“Judging by how you sounded, and what I felt, you felt very good.”
“You’re blushing,” she said clearly amused.
“Well, you don’t make it easy for me not to blush,” he said laughing.
“Do you regret being with me?”
“I regret that our first time together happened that way. It wasn’t how I had pictured I. It was dark and quick. I didn’t even get to see you. That’s not how I think of you, Judy.”
“You thought about it before?”
“Yes.”
Judy suddenly felt so relieved and he could tell from he expression she had the same previous thoughts.
“You’ve thought about it, too?”
She bit her bottom lip becoming brave, “I’ve wanted you since we started working together.”
“So it wasn’t just the champagne,” he joked.
She giggled, “No.”
Judy got up and walked a few steps to him. He sat up straight, his eyes wide in awareness, as she she sat on his lap. He suddenly felt like he would be violating her if he touched her as freely as she was with him.
“Darling, don’t be nervous, it’s only me,” she said seeing his hesitation.
Gene held her close and buried his face in her neck, “I tried denying my attraction towards you, my feelings for you, but I don’t think I want to anymore, honey.”
“Good, then we’re on the same page, Grandpa.”
She felt Gene’s muffled chuckle against her skin before he pulled back to look up at her. They both smiled sweetly before giving each other a soft kiss on the lips. A knock from the assistant director broke their moment, startling them both.
“Ms. Garland, Mr. Kelly?”
“Yeah, we’re coming!” Gene took her hand and kissed it. “Come on.”
As they stood up, Judy tightened her hand on his so he’d top and look at her, “Gene?”
“Hm?”
“I want to try it again.”
Gene bit his bottom lip a moment before placing his hands on her hips drawing her into him, “Well, you have the hotel for a week.”
Judy nodded at his confirmation and gained the courage to be sexy, but remained playful, “And this time you’ll be able to see me.”
Just the thought of it left Gene weak and he suddenly pulled back, “Let’s get this scene done like the pro’s that we are and then we can spend the evening together. I’ll make an excuse to Betsy.”
It was at that moment they both knew whatever happening to them was going to get serious.
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forever--darling · 4 years ago
Text
not too far away - s.m. (part nine)
a/n: where they all celebrate the reader’s birthday to only hear some news they never were expecting
warnings: 9.6k words of fluff, birthday celebrations, and happy shawn
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IX. safe pair of hands
him 
Shawn was late. He knew he was but he had been stuck on a phone call meeting with Andrew and then afterwards changed his shirt three times. Even as he pulled up into the Y/L/N driveway he still wasn’t sure if he looked alright. He was in his normal black jeans with a white three-quarter button up polo that had light blue and navy blue detailing along the collar, the bottom of the sleeves, and down where the buttons were. A black watch adorned his left wrist and a black and orange beaded bracelet was on the other. A black ring was located on his ring finger on his right hand which he couldn’t stop fiddling with and his curls were muzzled with a little bit of gel. 
Shawn was usually a confident guy, he knew he looked good, but at that moment all he could feel was insecure and nervous. Maybe it was because finally out loud he was going to voice his feelings to Y/N that night or maybe it was because for the first time they were going to be around people as more than just two best friends. Either way, he was a stuttering, red-faced mess. 
The weather was fairly warm, the sun shining down, causing him to drive with sunglasses shielding his eyes. As he parked the car along the side of the street since the driveway was already full with cars, he taped his fingers against the steering wheel nervously as he eyed the house that appeared lit up from the outside. It was one thirty so Shawn was only an hour and a half late but still late nonetheless. 
He took a deep breath before he got out of the car and headed towards the front door of the very large house, a bouquet of light pink peonies and a small rectangular wrapped box in his hands. Stood on the doorstep, Shawn didn’t even bother to knock but just went in. It was quieter than he expected with just a few voices coming from the kitchen along with clinking from pots and pans. He ventured in further and as he peeked his head into the kitchen he instantly caught sight of his mom, Katherine, and a few of their family friends slaving over platters of food.
After Aaliyah had proposed the idea of the party, it only took a day later for Shawn to be presenting the idea to Katherine and Bradley which they easily accepted. For days, he helped them plan the food, the decorations, and the invites. He even had created the invites onto a website and ordered a bunch before sending them out. The original plan was to have the party be a surprise but Shawn knew that it would be better if Y/N was able to tell him who and who he shouldn’t invite. I mean he hadn’t been around her for years so he didn’t have a clue who she hangs around these days. 
At first, she seemed hesitant about the party and all the people that would be attending but warmed up to the idea faster than Shawn anticipated. Besides the guest list, Y/N didn’t know about anything else about the party. He took care of the rest with the help of her parents and Aaliyah who had begged Shawn to let her help. He was meant to be at the house early to help set up but his phone call had gone way longer than it was supposed to so here he was probably the last on there. 
He took a step into the kitchen and instantly could smell all of the food. From cheesy potatoes to caesar salad, pickle roll-ups, meatballs, and cheese bread. It seemed that any kind of food that Y/N liked filled the kitchen which happened to be a lot. Also in the corner of the room, Shawn could see all of the desserts that had been picked. Multiple trays of cupcakes and cookies filled the white platter, all the way to the top. He figured that the food hadn’t been served yet and that Brad and his father, Manny were still grilling all of the meats outside. 
“Shawn Mendes, it’s so nice of you to join us,” Katherine’s voice rang out as she stirred a pot of some kind of soup or maybe it was some sort of dip. 
Stepping further into the room, he offered an apologetic smile, “I know I’m late.” 
Karen sent her son a disapproving look, “You bet your ass you’re late.” 
“I’m sorry, my meeting with Andrew ran long over the phone and then I couldn’t find the right shirt to wear and it took me at least ten minutes to find a bouquet of peonies because the guy had to look in the back of the floral shop for them and I’m just sorry,” Shawn rambled as Katherine approached him with a wide smile. 
“Nonsense Karen, just be glad that he’s here,” Katherine smiled at the young boy as she pulled him in for a hug, whispering low in his ear, “Thank you for all of this. You’ve made Y/N so happy.” 
“Well, Y/N makes me really happy too,” he replied back to Y/N’s mother gaining a soft kiss on the cheek from the older woman. 
She released Shawn from the hug and wiped at her eyes that were starting to glaze over with tears as she took the bouquet of flowers from his hand, “I’ll put these in some water for her.” 
Katherine walked over towards the sink where she began to fill a vase with water as Shawn’s attention fell onto his mother who was smiling at her son with bright eyes and so much love. Her hand landed on his shoulder and her voice was filled with so much honesty, “I’m so proud of you my boy.” 
“It’s really nothing, Mom. I’m just doing what I can to make her day special.” Shawn shrugged as he placed the rectangular jewelry box into the back pocket of his jeans.  
Karen stroked her son’s cheek, “You’re doing a great job at that, everyone seems to be having a great time.” 
“Is everyone here already?” Shawn questioned the head craning out to get a look out the glass door towards the porch. 
“Yes pretty much everyone,” Karen smiled, “All of Y/N’s family came at noon and most of her friends arrived a little after that. The only person I haven’t seen is Lauren.” 
Shawn sucked in a breath at the name. He hadn’t talked or seen the girl since he had rejected her advances of getting back together. He never thought that when he was talking about the guest list with Y/N, that she would’ve wanted Lauren put on it. But Y/N’s reasoning was that for years as kids they had been really close friends and though their relationship sort of fell apart when Shawn began dating Lauren she wanted everyone she cared about to attend the party. Shawn knew there was a chance that for one day Lauren could’ve put her personal problems with him aside for one day, for Y/N but knew that there was a greater chance she would disregard the invite altogether. 
“Oh well,” Shawn mumbled eyes meeting his mother’s, “Who knows maybe she’ll show later.” 
“Yeah maybe,” Karen agreed trying to keep her hopes up as well. 
Katherine had placed the flowers into a clear vase and had set them in the middle of the dark marble island before she motioned to the glass door that led out towards the porch, “Shawn, darling, everyone is outside and Y/N is playing a round of cards if you want to join.” 
“Okay, sounds good,” he said sending one last smile towards his mom as he made his way towards the door. 
As soon as he opened it and slid out onto the wooden porch the noise level had jumped. There were pink, white, and gold balloons tied in multiple places along the railings. Lights hung up around the porch waiting for the sun to go down to be turned on and underneath it all was a large glass table that extended over half the wooded area with six plastic chairs surrounding it. Every chair was filled with Y/N’s family members which Shawn instantly recognized from past gatherings except there was one guy who sat across the table next to Y/N’s grandfather and Demi that he had never seen before. They all sat with cards in their hands and there at the head of the table was Y/N with the smallest stack of cards out of everyone. 
“Three Kings,” Demi said from across the table. 
Instantly without a second to waste Y/N yelled from where she sat, “Bullshit!” 
“You’re such a little bitch,” Demi exclaimed laughter lacing in her words. 
Everyone at the table let out bellows and laughs as Demi reached towards the center of the table taking the stack of cards. She rolled her eyes towards Y/N who sent her a shit-eating grin. Shawn chuckled from where he stood in the doorway and one by one everyone began to notice his presence. 
“Shawn Mendes, well I’ll be damned,” The voice came from the spot next to Y/N which happened to be Y/N’s Uncle John, “Look at you all grown up!” 
Y/N’s head snapped up towards where her Uncle’s voice was directed to and as her eyes fell on Shawn, a large smile pulled at her lips. He sent her a small wink causing her cheeks to flush as the table chorused with multiple greetings. 
“Why don’t you pull up a chair and get in on this,” Uncle John said placing his cards face down on the table. 
“Actually it’s perfect timing,” Demi cut in standing from her spot at the table offering her cards to Shawn, “You can take my spot.” 
Counting the cards in his hand he scoffs, “Oh I see how it is, leave me with the most cards.” 
Demi pats his shoulder as she heads towards the door to go into the kitchen, “Well, sorry but can’t do much when you’re playing against Y/N.” 
“Ah we’ll see,” Shawn chuckled as he made his way towards the seat Demi had been sitting in which happened to be next to James when Y/N’s grandpa who was sitting on the other side of Y/N stood up. 
“Shawn, why don’t you take a seat here. Maybe ruffle some of Y/N’s feathers since I clearly am not doing the job,” Grandpa Arthur said teasingly, eyes set on the seat next to James. 
“You sure?” he asked as the older man who was dressed in a light tan sweater vest and had his white hair gelled into place passed him giving a small pat to his shoulder. 
“Yeah. Plus I think I’m going to go rough up on James a little,” Grandpa Arthur chuckled taking a seat next to the older Y/L/N sibling who had a large grin on his face. 
“Bring it on old man,” James sassed back gaining laughter from his grandfather. 
The whole table started to laugh at the bickering going on between the grandson and grandfather giving Shawn enough time to slip into the seat next to Y/N. “Hi,” she whispered towards him causing his whole stomach to flutter. 
As he took in her appearance up close he felt his breath get stuck in his throat at how stunning she looked. A sight for sore eyes, for sure. Her short hair was down and in loose curls that were tucked behind her ears revealing her double pierced lobe and one diamond earring that was a cartilage piercing. That’s new, Shawn thought to himself as his eyes took in the rest of her. Y/N was dressed in a short white off the shoulder dress that had small sunflowers littered across it with a pair of small nude heels. Her fingers were painted in white nail polish and she had a golden delicate necklace around her neck that had a short chain and was covered with small gold stars all the way around. Her makeup was bronzed, light, and glowing in the sunlight as it hit her face. Her skin was golden and shiny and Shawn’s eyes couldn’t help but wander across her exposed shoulders to her legs. He was sure that she was an angel. 
“Hi,” he whispered back, knee bumping hers under the table, “Sorry, I’m a bit late. You look beautiful by the way.” 
Her face flushed like it always did when Shawn complimented her and he wanted nothing more than to lean over and place a soft kiss on the heated skin but knew better than to with all the people that were around. “Thanks, but we both know flattery isn’t going to get you anywhere.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?” Shawn asked, raising an eyebrow as he leaned closer to her.
“It means I’m about to beat your ass in a round of Bullshit,” she challenged with a smile on her face. 
Shawn fell back against the plastic lawn chair, hand gripping his chest as multiple ooh’s surrounded the table at Y/N’s words. Sending her a cheeky grin, his eyes fell onto the blackboard that was rolled up behind his chair. That thing had been around for years and it built his ego every time he saw it. He bit onto his lower lip and instantly noticed the way Y/N’s eyes diverted to them. “Alright, whatever you say but maybe you should take a look back at the board again to see whose name is at the top.” 
The chalk was starting to fade but it was still legible. There at the top in blue was Shawn’s name with a large star next to it. Y/N’s was right below his with fewer tallies next to her name than his had. Every game of bullshit played, the winner would get a tally, and after all this time Shawn’s name still appeared to have the most. 
Silence filled the table as they watched the birthday girl’s eyes shift towards the board and back to Shawn who was now leaning back in his chair, legs spread open and hands in his lap organizing the set of cards he had. Y/N and Shawn were always competitive when it came to Bullshit and everyone knew that they were in for a treat. 
Y/N’s sparkling eyes shifted back to Shawn’s full of determination and a hint of amusement. She smirked, “That’s going to change by the end of tonight.” 
“Getting a little cocky don’t you think?” he asked with a smile on his lips. 
Y/N shook her head, “Not at all.” 
Shawn chuckled and was about to let out another smart ass comment when Uncle John’s voice broke through the air, “Alright easy there, kids. That’s enough for now. Okay, so we made it through the lineup which means we can start at the top.” 
He looked through his cards and plucked one from the middle placing it face down starting a new pile, “One Ace.”
Then it was James’s turn who took two cards from his hand, “Two twos.” 
“Four threes,” Grandpa Arthur mumbled, pushing four cards onto the pile. 
“Bullshit,” Uncle John howled from his spot at the table. 
Grandpa Arthur only chuckled, “Try again Sonny.” He flipped over the cards to reveal that he, in fact, had four threes. 
Uncle John let out a small growl as he gathered the card pile from the center of the table into his hands. They were onto fours and it came up to the guy Shawn still didn’t know. Y/N must have sensed Shawn’s confusion because just as the guy went to play his turn, she cut him off. 
“Oh, right,” she announced, “Shawn this is Demetrius, his aunt owns my favorite book shop in the city. She’s around here somewhere anyways he helps out around there. Working and all that so yeah.” 
“Uh, it’s nice to meet you man,” Shawn replied sending him a smile. 
“Yeah you too,” Demetrius replied setting down two cards, “Two fours.” 
“Bullshit,” Shawn stated quickly.
Demetrius let out a displeased chuckle as he picked his two cards back up and shoved them into his hand. Fives, Shawn thought to himself. He looked to the cards in his hands and sent a glance towards Y/N who was peeking over her cards a small grin forming on her lips. Chewing on his bottom lip, Shawn took the three fives that were in his stack which happened to be the five of clubs, diamonds, and spades. 
“Three fives,” he said shoving the face down cards into the middle waiting to see if anyone was going to think he was bluffing. 
Y/N nodded towards him as her eyes glanced at her own cards plucking one of her own, “One six.” 
“You know the key to this game is to get rid of your cards as fast as you can,” he teased causing her to roll her eyes in response, “That and being able to read people.” 
“Three sevens,” Uncle John played his turn. 
“One eight,” James mumbled.
Grandpa Arthur went, “Four nines.” 
“Bullshitttt,” Shawn shouted without even glancing up and away from his cards.
Grandpa Arthur grabbed the cards and added them to his hand, “You got me there, boy. Got me there.” 
Shawn smiled approvingly towards Y/N who just shook her head at him trying to hide the smile that was fighting its way onto her lips. 
“What are we at?” Demetrius asked scanning through his cards.
“Tens,” Y/N responded foot kicking Shawn’s lightly under the table. 
His foot kicked back at hers as Demetrius laid his turn onto the table, “Two tens.” 
Jacks. Shawn instantly took his cards and put them into the pile, eyes once again finding hers, “Two Jacks.” 
“Bullshit,” Y/N stated loudly. Everyone became silent and watched in amusement as Shawn’s lips pulled into a smirk.
“You think I’m bluffing?” he asked. 
She nodded leaning forward in her chair lips pursed wrist settling under her chin hiding the cards in her hand, “Yeah, I do.” 
Shawn pointed towards the cards in the middle of the table and leaned back into his chair once again, “Why don’t you take a look.” 
Y/N took the two cards on the top and flipped them over. She shook her head, a small smile on her lips as she looked back towards Shawn. The smirk still sat on his lips as he watched a defeated sigh pass through the girl next to him, “Well, what do you have?” 
“Two Jacks,” she admitted flipping them over to show everyone else at the table, who all began to laugh, before grabbing all of the cards in the middle and adding to her deck that was once getting smaller but now had doubled in size.
“I was telling the truth,” Shawn exclaimed cheekily, “So you think you can still beat me?” 
Her eyes turned to slits as she tucked a piece of hair, that had fallen out from behind her ear, back into place. “Bring it on, Mendes!” 
“Alright, well it’s your turn, hotshot,” he replied knee bumping hers again.
“Okay,” she said head held high as she scanned her cards, “Three Queens.” 
Shawn smiled, “Bullshit.” 
He watched as her expression unfolded. She let out a groan and in seconds her perfectly manicured fingers were picking up the cards from the center and after they were safely in her hands, she hit him in the thigh. “I’m going to hurt you.” 
+
her
It was now Shawn’s turn and since you had started you had managed to call him out on his bluffs in his last four turns. The cards in his hands had multiplied and he had at least twelve while you only had seven. You were on sixes and he was staring down at the cards intensely, tongue poking out of the side of his mouth. You were silent and watched him with a sweet smile on your lips. 
On the other side of the table, your Grandpa Arthur was making small talk with Demetrius who had gotten quiet after Shawn had shown up. Leaning into your chair, your head leaned against the plastic backrest as Shawn rubbed his chin in concentration. That’s when you heard the pair of feet patting up the stairs. Looking over, your gaze met the younger Mendes sibling who had been down in the yard setting up the music in the time being. She came over and stood by your chair, chin placed on the back of your chair, head against yours. 
Shawn glanced up at the new presence and sent a smile towards his sister as he reached out and gave her a small pinch in her side. She slapped his hand away causing him to chuckle. Aaliyah had her long dark hair straight across her back as she was dressed in a maroon dress that fell to above her knees and had a high neckline looking as beautiful as ever. 
“Let me guess,” she smiled, “Bullshit?” 
“You bet ya and Y/N is kicking the pants off of your brother,” your Uncle John smiled watching as Shawn just waved his hand at the older gentlemen. 
Aaliyah’s eyes widened, “Really?” 
“Yeah, yeah but not for long,” Shawn defended attention falling back onto his cards. 
“Alright, Mendes, if you say so,” you said showing Aaliyah the cards in her hand. 
He began to shuffle his cards around ignoring the comments going around the table, “Let me get back on track here. Three Sixes.” 
He put the cards into the middle without another second to hesitate but you had him right where you wanted him, “Bullshit.” 
You watched as Shawn’s head turned to you and his mouth opened in disapproval. His head fell back against his seat and a small noise of protest passed his lips. 
“That’s right I said it. Bullshit,” you said again this time louder. 
Shawn took the three cards from the pile and flipped them over revealing an Ace, Three, and a King. “Damn it!” He growled smiling over towards you. 
You let out a loud string of giggles, giving him one more long look as you stand from your spot at the table. Handing Aaliyah your cards, you adjust your dress and start to head towards the glass door to head back inside to the kitchen when Shawn’s voice yells after you, “Giving up already?” 
“Nope, just taking a break,” you called back as you opened the door and moved inside. 
In the kitchen, you found your mother, Karen, Loretta, and Demi. They were making small talk and there stood by the counter was your best friend shoving a cookie into her mouth. At the sound of the door, all of the women looked up to noticing your warm cheeks and large contagious smile that was on your lips. 
“Hi, hun,” your mom smiled, “How’s the game going?” 
Taking small steps towards the island you nodded as your hands knotted in the bottom of your dress, “It’s going great, Mom.” 
“Are you having a good time?” she asked taking a sip from the glass of wine that was in her hand. 
“The best,” you said honestly, “Thank you for the party.” 
Your mom nodded towards you reaching forward to rub your arm, “It’s nothing really. Just want you to have the best birthday you can.”
“Well it’s definitely high up there on the list,” you admitted inching your way towards the edge of the kitchen, “I’m just going to use the bathroom.” 
You made your way through the kitchen and as you passed Demi sent her a look before exiting the room and heading down the hall towards the bathroom. Walking in, you closed the door behind you and stood in front of the mirror looking into your reflection. You carefully fixed the few pieces of hair that were out of place and let out a soft sigh. As you stared at yourself and the smile on your face you realized that these last few weeks had been the happiest you had seen yourself in so long. It was because of all those people who were outside. It was your family, your friends, all those people that cared about you so deeply, that made you smile so much that your cheeks would start to hurt. 
They were the people that made your life worthwhile and you had gotten so lucky in the family and friends department. Most of all it was because of Shawn. He made you the happiest of all, in ways you didn’t know you were capable of feeling. Since your kiss, you two had been taking things slow. You hadn’t kissed since and hadn’t verbally admitted your feelings to each other but you were sure that you didn’t have too. That you both just knew how you felt about each other and words didn’t need to be said. He had been so understanding about your fears and wanting to go slow. It must have been hard for him, considering he was a guy but the last week had been crazy ever since your visit to the hospital. 
But even with the news of the cancer being back you had managed to smile through it. Days after you had gotten together again with Dr. Myers and gone through the plans of the surgery and everything. He was still hesitant about the fact that you were waiting to have it but you were a stubborn girl. You wanted it after your birthday and that’s the way it was going to be. In fact, you were having it in three days. A day after Shawn boards his plane and goes back to LA. You still weren’t sure how you were going to tell him or if you were going to tell him because he was still Shawn Mendes. 
He still had a life out of your small town of Pickering and your apartments in the city. When you were sick the first time, he didn’t have a place or time in his life to sit at your bedside waiting for you to get better and things hadn’t changed. He still wouldn’t have time for that and you couldn’t be a burden to him. He had a life, a career to get back to you and there just was no place for you, and you could only hope that one day he’d understand that even if he never gets to hear you explain it to him. 
A soft knock at the bathroom door interrupts you from your thoughts and in walks Demi with her long curls and yellow long sleeve romper. You don’t turn to look at her and keep your eyes locked onto your reflection struggling to swallow the lump that’s formed in your throat. “Hey, is everything okay?” 
“It’s back,” you whispered turning to look at her over your shoulder. 
At your simple answer, she looked at you confused but as her eyes met yours it’s like a switch went off in her brain and her face fell. She reached out to you and took your hands in hers. “Oh shit. Y/N.” 
You nodded and gripped her hands tightly in hers. “How long have you known?” she asked. 
“I went to the hospital late last week and I got tests and there is a small group of Mets where one of my ovaries used to be,” you explained. 
The frown on Demi’s face deepened and you can see the tears that are forming in her eyes. You quickly pulled her into your arms and began to rub her back softly, “Hey, I’m going to be okay. It’s all going to be fine. I’m having surgery in a few days to get them removed. No chemo.” 
“W-What are the risks?” she asked voice cracking. 
“Well,” you paused trying to gather your thoughts, “There’s a few but we don’t need to worry about them.” 
You were trying to calm her down because you couldn’t have other people finding out. The only reason you told her is because you needed to get this out of your system to someone without the whole day falling apart. She wouldn’t tell anyone, for you, you knew that. 
“Y/N, I’m so sorry,” Demi cried wiping at her eyes as you hugged her tightly. 
“For what? You aren’t the one that gave me cancer,” you joked pulling back from the hug where you began to wipe her tears away. 
She gave you a look that said that your comment wasn’t funny but somehow a chuckle still fell from her lips. Shaking her head she began to wipe under her eyes, “You’re awful.” 
“No, I’m just sick,” you mumbled running your hands up and down her arms. 
“How many people know?” she questioned grabbing some toilet paper to wipe at her eyes. 
“As of right now,” you pretended to be counting on your fingers, “You.” 
“Y/N!” Demi scolded. 
“I’ll tell them,” you insisted, “I mean I kind of have to before the surgery anyway. My Dad’s my emergency contact person.” 
You could tell that Demi was getting tired of your jokes and your sarcastic attitude. Clearly, it wasn’t working to lighten the situation at all. “I know, I’m not making this any better. I’ll tell them, Dem, but not today. Everyone is so happy and for one more today, I just wanted to be treated normal. Healthy even for one more day.” 
“Then why would you tell me?” Demi asked voice straining. 
“Because I needed to tell someone and you’re you. You’re my Demi. You were there by my bedside every day when I was in the hospital. You would always sneak in the best snacks that I wasn’t allowed to have and you didn’t tell anyone that I was sick. You’re my partner in crime. I can trust you. We’ve gone through everything together and this was something I needed you to go through with me too,” you smiled tucking your hair back behind your ear. 
Demi forced a smile on her face and you knew that you had picked the right person to sit by at lunch on your first day of school at age five, “I got you.” 
Sticking her pinky out towards you, you locked yours with hers and pulled her back in for another bone-crushing hug, “God, I love you.” 
“I love you too, you hoe,” Demi said in response with sad chuckles sounding through the air. 
Pulling back, her hands reached up to cup your cheeks and she stared into your eyes so intently, “How are you so calm about all of this? How can you be so happy when you were just told that your cancer is back?” 
Your hands covered hers on your face and your lips curved up into a soft smile, “Because I was given the last almost week for it to all settle in. I’ve come to terms that life is unfucking fair and I have to deal with the cards I’ve been dealt. Plus how can I not be happy? I have the best family and the greatest friends. I have you and I’m pretty sure that the curly haired rockstar outside loves me. I can’t think of any reasons why I shouldn’t be happier on my birthday.” 
“You are the bravest person I know,” she mumbled, causing your heart to ache because there was the chance that you might not make it through this and you were going to miss this girl in front of like crazy.
“I’m honored,” you laughed feeling tears pricking at the corner of your eyes, “Okay enough of all of this deep talk or I’m going to cry and having my makeup ruined is the last thing I need today.” 
“Yeah you’re right,” Demi agreed, moving in front of the mirror to wipe at her face again, “Now get your ass out there before Shawn gets more tally marks on that damn board.” 
You smiled and gave her arm one last gentle squeeze before you made your way back through the kitchen and outside towards Shawn Mendes, the champion, of Bullshit. 
He was still sat in the same spot he was before, a bunch of cards still in his hands that he moved around every few minutes. His eyes glanced mischievously around the table like he had everyone figured out but you knew that it was just an act he used. With your hands behind your back, you moved across the porch stopping as you stood behind his chair. Your eyes scanned across his cards while you began to chew on your bottom lip. Glancing over towards Aaliyah’s cards she sent a look with a smile and you sent her wink back. Shawn seemed so sucked up into the game that he hadn’t realized you were back outside and standing behind him. Lifting your hands, you placed them on each of his shoulders feeling him tense for a second but instantly relaxing as soon as your voice fills his ears. 
You gripped his shoulders tightly in your palms, “Oh, why so tense Mendes? Worried you’re about to be beaten by your little sister?” 
He shook his head, “Nope. I’ve got this in the bag because there are very few things Aaliyah can beat me at.” 
Instantly at his comment, Shawn had received a harsh slap to his arm from Aaliyah causing a laugh to fall from his mouth. You looked at Aaliyah’s cards again. “You might want to recheck your ego.” 
“Not a chance, love,” he said looking up at you for a split second before he placed four cards onto the table, “Four Aces.” 
Aaliyah glanced from her brother to you. You raised an eyebrow at her and began to bite onto your bottom lip as your eyes looked down at Shawn’s cards in his hands then back up to her. She smiled at you as her brown eyes fell back onto Shawn. 
“Bullshit!” 
+
him 
“You know I think you told Aaliyah, that I was bluffing,” Shawn said sending a raised eyebrow towards Y/N as he took her down the porch steps and into the backyard, hand intertwined with hers. 
“No, I think your just upset that someone finally beat you in a game of Bullshit,” Y/N shot back as he stopped under the porch so they were out of sight. 
It was just after dinner, and the sun was finally starting to set. The fairy lights around the yard were lit up along with a battery operated candles that lined the white tables across the yard that were covered in soft pink sheets. Wooden benches were around the tables and the music stand was set up on a small stage near the edge of the yard looking like it was meant for a DJ, though it was just a few speakers hooked up to someone’s laptop. The desserts had been moved outside to one of the tables and only had a few cupcakes and cookies left. There were more balloons scattered across the yard along with a large number 20 balloon that Katherine had bought on a wimp. It was beautiful. Everything had gone to plan so far and Shawn knew from the way everything was set up and how the lights sparkled across Y/N’s face just right that the rest of her night was going to be just as special if not more than her day had been. 
“You want to know something,” Shawn paused leaning closer to Y/N as he lowered his voice like it was a secret that no one else could know, “I let her win.” 
She let out a laugh shoving Shawn’s chest playfully, “No, you didn’t!” 
He smiled down at Y/N and grabbed both her hands in his as they lingered on his chest. “What are we doing over here?” 
Taking his bottom lip in between his teeth, Shawn let go of one of Y/N’s hands to reach into his back pocket and take out the rectangular box. It was wrapped in golden wrapping paper, that was slightly wrinkled, and a white bow. “Giving you your birthday present.” 
Offering it out to her, she was hesitant to take it, as her eyes fluttered up to look at him, “Shawn you didn’t have to do this.” 
He smiled, “Of course I did. It’s your birthday after all.” 
“Shawn,” she sighed glancing down at the small wrapped box. 
“Hey,” his thumb ran across her wrist soothingly, “Don’t worry about it okay. Just open it.” 
She nodded, Shawn’s hands dropped from hers as she began to rip at the wrapping paper of the small box. The gold wrapping paper fell at her feet revealing a black box underneath. With a small breath, she lifted the lid off and as soon as her eyes fell down onto what was inside a gasp fell from her lips. It was a necklace. The pendant that hung from the thin golden chain was a circle, with the continents from the Western hemisphere on it. And right on North America, there was a small star right were Pickering was. 
She sputtered lifting the necklace up and out of the box by the chain, “How much did this cost?” 
“It doesn’t matter,” he responded taking the black box from her hands and setting it down on a nearby table. 
“Yes, it does,” she whispered finger tracing over the star on Pickering, “It’s so beautiful.”
“I know how much you want to travel so I tried to fit as much of the world as I could on there without making the continents too small because you wouldn’t be able to see where the star was for Pickering. Anyways, I know that you want to travel and when you do start to explore the world and begin to fall in love with all these new places, I want you to be able to look down at your neck and remember about your place here in Pickering. It’s just in case you start to forget about all the love for you here,” Shawn explained eyes sparkling as he stared down at Y/N. 
“Shawn-” 
He interrupted her, “That’s not all. Turn it over.” 
Y/N’s eyebrows furrowed in confusion as she turned the pendant around to the backside instantly feeling all air leave her lungs as she stared at a date carved into the back. 04/21/14. April 21st, 2014. It was four years ago. 
Her eyes locked with Shawn’s as his hand took one of hers in his. “That’s four years ago. The day, I left Pickering for the first time for my career. It was also the day that I realized how much you mean to me Y/N Y/L/N. That’s when I figured out that I couldn’t live without you in my life. Leaving you was probably the worst feeling I had ever experienced and every day I found myself missing your smile, and hearing your laugh. Most of all I just missed being with you and ever since that’s all I’ve ever felt. You’re my person.” 
Shawn’s smile was so large and at his confession, he could feel his cheeks turning red but he didn’t care because there she was standing in front of him smiling up at him with so much admiration and happiness as her eyes threatened to spill tears of joy. Bringing her hand up to his face, he left a kiss on her knuckles and that sent her over the edge. A single tear slipped down her cheek and onto her neck. 
A chuckle fell past her lips as she wiped at her eyes, words coming out soft and scratchy, “Will you help me put this on?” 
Shawn’s smile widened and nodded as he took the chain in his hand. She turned around and he draped the necklace around her neck as she held her hair to the side for him. He clipped the chain in place and let it fall against her neck. Y/N’s hand dropped to her side and as she was about to turn back around to face Shawn, she stopped at the feeling of his warm lips connecting to the side of her cheek, leaving a small lingering peck. And almost in an instant, she leaned back into his touch like it was a natural thing they did every day. 
+
her
You stood in the corner of the yard away from all the other guests near the spot under the porch where Shawn had given you your birthday present. Your fingers touched the pendant around your neck softly as you watched across the yard, where your best friend and the man you were pretty sure you loved, spun his sister around to Perfect by Ed Sheeran. Both smiles were present on the Mendes siblings and it caused one to form on yours as well but it didn’t last long though. 
You were instantly hit with the reality that neither one of them knew about your past years with cancer or now where you once again were presented with a sad fate. When they looked at you they didn’t see you as someone who was sick or someone who was healthy. They saw you as you. The crazy girl they grew up with who liked pineapple on her pizza and could sing the Canadian anthem from back to front. You could die and they would have no idea how or why it happened. And at the end of the day, it would be entirely your fault that they were left in the dark about the whole thing.
“Hey, what are you doing over here all alone,” you jumped at the hand that was placed on your shoulder as you came face to face with your mother. 
“Uh, just taking a second for myself is all,” you replied, hand dropping away from the necklace. 
“Is everything alright, hun?” she asked hand stroking your back lovingly
“Yeah, it’s just,” you paused hand flying back up towards your necklace, “Mom, how do you know if you’re really in love?” 
“Oh, honey, I haven’t heard you ask me that in years,” your mother revealed watching as your eyes widened in shock.
“Wait, I’ve asked you this before?” 
Your mother nodded a small chuckle falling from her lips, “Yeah, you were around five or six, and you had just came home from spending the whole day at Karen and Manny’s. You couldn’t stop going on and on about Shawn. You said he was the sweetest boy in the world and then you asked me how would you know if you were in love.” 
Your gaze fell on Shawn as he dipped Aaliyah arms wrapped around her. Fingers grasping the necklace you looked back towards your mom, lip tucked in between your teeth. “Well, what’s the answer? How do you know if you are in love?” 
“In all honesty, honey, when you know you just know. You get this sort of feeling around them like you don’t get around anyone else and all you can think about twenty-four seven is that person. When you’re together it just feels right and there’s nothing else in the world that feels better than being with them. If you’re in love, you’ll know.” 
Your grip loosened from the necklace and your arm fell limp to your side, head turning towards the yard. He was pushing his curls back out of his eyes while he wrapped his sister up into a hug just as the song came to an end. Your mother was right. You just knew. It was the way your heart would swell whenever he was around and how your body would tingle under his touch. It was the way he could always make you flustered by his words and how he would do anything for you. 
You wanted to spend every waking moment with him and when you weren’t with him, he’s all you pretty much thought about. He had been your best friend for years and all those sleepless nights you had at the age of fourteen thinking about him, you never thought had anything to do with love but now at twenty, you knew without a doubt that you had been in love with him for years. Some days you were sure and others you didn’t think you were but now it was real in your mind. No more doubt, no more excuses to deny the way you were feeling. You were in love with Shawn Mendes and there was nothing you could do about it except fall deeper into the reality of it all. 
“Y/N, dear, where did you get that necklace?” your mother asked noticing the new pendant around your neck, “It’s beautiful.” 
A soft smile formed on your lips, “Shawn gave it to me.”
+
him 
Shawn knew which song would be playing next. It was her parents who requested it. It was their song and he knew how much it annoyed Y/N whenever it played. She thought her parents were adorable of course but the song had been played one too many times in her life and he knew it was inevitable that she would let out an irritated groan as soon as the starting few notes broke through the speakers. 
That was exactly what had happened too. Shawn watched as Y/N’s mouth opened and a noise of displeasure fell out. “No, you let them play this song?” 
She sent a pointed look towards him, who only chuckled in response as he noticed from the corner of his eye Katherine and Bradley walking towards the middle of the yard to begin to sway softly to the music. Soon Karen and Manny joined them and one by one Y/N’s grandparents and aunts and uncles stood up too. They were all dancing as Elvis’s voice flowed loudly and perfectly through the large speakers. 
“Did you know about this?” she asked eyebrows raised. 
“Yeah, now come and dance with me,” he demanded, grabbing her hand and pulling her into the crowd of the rest of the dancing couples. 
She rolled her eyes as her hands looped up and around Shawn’s neck, “I can’t believe I’m about to dance to this song.”
“Ah, ah, ah,” Shawn voiced eyes falling to her feet, “Aren’t you forgetting something?” 
Her arms dropped from around his neck and an amused look appeared on her face. “Oh, I get it. You want it to be just like how we used to do this. Alright, if that’s what you really want.” 
With that, she slipped off the nude hills and kicked them to the side towards a close table and moved back to where she had been before, arms wrapped around his neck and chest connected to his but now she was a little shorter. Shawn’s arms wrapped around her waist and slowly he began to move them back and forth to the song, she had said on multiple occasions that she despised. 
His head dipped down and the smell of coconuts and vanilla filled his nose. Now, this was familiar. He could recall on multiple occasions during family gatherings, and summer barbecues where she would be in his arms, dancing with him, barefoot in the yard. He sighed happily but after a few minutes, he lifted his head at the feeling of Y/N’s arms tightening around him. Her eyes were locked on something else and as he followed her gaze, a low chuckle escaped from him. 
There a few feet away was Demi wrapped up in James’s arms. They were dancing close, probably too close in Y/N’s opinion. She sent a glance towards Shawn and he knew she was going to try to make a move for them. “Uh, I should-” 
Before she could though, his arms tightened around her waist and he held her still against his chest, “Hey, just let it happen on its own.” 
Her eyes widened slightly and her jaw dropped too, “Let it happen. My best friend is dancing with my older brother.” 
“Yeah, and you shouldn’t interfere. It’ll only ruin it,” he reasoned beginning to dance again. 
At his words, she smiled teasingly, “Huh, when did you get so smart?” 
“I always have been you’ve just been blinded by my striking good looks to notice.”
“Okay whatever you say, Mendes,” she laughed, head falling onto his chest and eyes fluttering to a close. 
Shawn could feel the smile that was lifting at the corners of his lips because this was all he ever wanted and more. He wanted his best friend back and somehow fell in love with her in the process. She really made him feel things he wasn’t used to and he found himself learning something new every day. He still, of course, didn’t know about why they had a fallout but at the moment he didn’t need to know because they came back stronger than ever. 
Someday he would know because it was something that he would need to hear. He would need to know the truth because if there was one thing Shawn knew it was that relationships couldn’t be built on lies and secrets. And if that’s what this was building up to be with Y/N, a relationship, then those were two things they would need to live by. He knew that sometime soon they would have to face this thing that seemed to divide them but at the moment his mind was too hazy from the smell of her perfume and the soft grip she had on him to care. 
He was in such a state of peace, he hadn’t realized he had started to hum to the Elvis song and then that turned to him singing the lyrics in her ear, “Wise men say only fools rush in, but I can’t help falling in love with you.” 
Within minutes though, the song had started to come to an end and the last remaining notes traveled through the speakers until it went silent altogether. Shawn let go of Y/N and unwinded her arms from around him. She gave him a look of confusion as he let go of her arms and began to move away. Jogging over towards where the speakers were, he reached behind the stand and grabbed the neck of the brown acoustic guitar. 
He sat down on the edge of the small stage with the guitar propped into his lap. Y/N still stood in the same spot she had been dancing with him moments ago, a small smile starting to blossom on her glossy lips. As the rest of the guests took notice of Shawn and the guitar they began to gather around smiling at the young star who had managed to make it big. 
Every person was able to take notice of his rosy cheeks and pearly white smile that seemed to never disappear from his lips. He ran his fingers through his curls quickly as all attention fell on him. Strumming at the guitar to make sure it was in tune, he looked back up at at the small crowd that all had something in common with them. They all cared deeply for the girl in the white dress who stood barefoot in the middle of the yard. 
Shawn licked his lips quickly as his eyes found hers, “Um, I know that you all probably want to get back to dancing as soon as possible and I don’t blame you but all I need is a few minutes. I just wanted to say that today is a very special day for me because it’s the day that my best friend was born. I don’t know if someone you know this but Y/N and I have been attached at the  hip most of our lives and after all these years of being by each other’s sides I have no clue what I do without her.” He paused trying to gather his thoughts and control his racing heart as his eyes scanned over the yard again, “To put it, simply, she is one of my favorite people in the world and I’m sure that I care about her as much as you all do which is why you are here today. To celebrate her and her birthday.”
Smiles were forming on everyone’s faces at Shawn’s kind words about the young woman who had affected all the people there. He spoke with such admiration and love that everyone easily could see how much love he held for her. At every single thing that was coming out of his mouth, Shawn’s cheeks were getting more red and his mind more clouded. His eyes locked with hers and everything else seemed to fade. Her smile was so big and so bright, that Shawn swore he was getting dizzy. With one look, she was able to get a reaction out of him and he knew that he was in deep for his best friend. 
He chuckled as he began to rub the back of his neck nervously, “Uh, Y/N I know I already gave you your birthday present but I guess I have one more.” 
Y/N shook her head in disbelief at him and Shawn sent her a wink in response. Dropping his head, he began to pick at the strings of the guitar, letting the familiar notes pass through the air. Lifting his head, his gaze passed by everyone until they were once again on her. Her eyes were wide and she was biting on the bottom of her lip as the song she knew all so well filled her ears. Shawn had opened his mouth and began to sing the oh’s that wasn’t in the recorded version but was included when he sang it live. 
He could see the emotion pass across her face at the sound of him singing the very song she had been listening too for the past three years since he had left and they had their fallout. It was her first time hearing him sing it live and in person but what mattered most of all was he wasn’t singing for a large crowd that paid to watch him perform. No, he was singing for one person and one person only, her. And nothing could have been more special than that moment when a look was shared between them and the only thing there was complete and utter love. 
“I promise that one day I'll be around. I'll keep you safe. I'll keep you sound.” Shawn sang, feeling the lyrics hit him deep in the gut, “Right now it's pretty crazy. And I don't know how to stop. Or slow it down.” 
Sure, it was a vulnerable thing to do. Shawn singing his songs. It all felt the same though. Whether it was a whole crowd of his fans, a few friends, or now with this small group of family neighbors he had known most of his life. He was singing everything he felt, the words that he had spent hours in the studio trying to string together. 
This song had been out for three almost four years now and he had gotten used to singing it and he felt more comfortable every time but now in front of her, he felt like it was the very first time. The first time he sang it live in an arena with a bunch of screaming fans. His stomach was turning and he was starting to sweat. His face felt hot and his heart was beating like crazy. That was just the effect she had on him.
“Hey. I know there are some things we need to talk about. And I can't stay. Just let me hold you for a little longer now,” Shawn smiled as he sung seeing the happiness that appeared on everyone’s faces. The biggest being on Katherine and Bradley’s besides their daughter who looked like she was going to burst from how overwhelming it all was. “Take a piece of my heart. And make it all your own. So when we are apart. You'll never be alone”
For the rest of the song, Shawn couldn’t look away from Y/N. Her reaction was all he cared about and he gained exactly what he wanted as he sang out the last ohh’s. She was almost in tears, he knew it. Just by the way she was biting into her bottom lip and how her nose kept scrunching up. Shawn strummed the last few chords and applause erupted around the yard. The guitar fell across his lap and he started to laugh lightly at Y/N. She was smiling at him as tears were starting to fall from her eyes. Shaking his head, Shawn grinned at her as she just shrugged and began to wipe at her tears. 
He was about to put his guitar back and move back over towards Y/N but halted as he watched Brad take a step out of the small crowd. Her dad looked beyond grateful as he shared a look with the boy he had watched turn into a man. Brad’s brown eyes then moved to all the people who had come to celebrate his daughter’s birthday and show how much they all loved her and that’s when something passed across the older man’s face that Shawn couldn’t place. That’s when it happened, it all made sense in the worst way possible. The truth was out and he felt all happiness he was feeling moments ago disappear into thin air.
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