#and then ny game froze

[sshoujo-ais]

I WENT TO FINALLY PLAY THE BEHR SISTERS AND MY LAPTOP DIDNT LIKE THAT

[madridfangirl]

Star crossed lovers (Jude Bellingham fic)

Chapter 7

(Series Link)

Jude * female reader. Mature Language in parts.

Synopsis: A chance encounter in a tiny Madrid cafe with the newest superstar of her fav club. The two couldn't be more different, yet both feel the pull toward the other. Would this girl be the one he finally falls for? Would she make him change his ways? Even though she resists him every step of the way, would he fight all odds (& her) to have her in his life? Or would life come in the way of these star-crossed lovers?

.............................................................................................

Wednesday morning started off on a foul note for Jude. The team landed after a red eye flight & below is what he saw at 6:30 am. 

Ananya: Heyy. Listen, I am so sorry but I can’t make it tonight. NY office just got back and we have tons more to do. All hands on deck. Will be MIA most of today & tmrw. Hope you put something on your bruises. Take care & see ya soon! 

He groaned in frustration. Yesterday had been horrible & he was really looking forward to seeing her tonight. It was his primary motivation to get through the day. But the universe seemed to be conspiring against him.

He stayed in a pissy mood for a bit but sanity prevailed some time later. 

Jude: Heyy, it’s fine. Work is work. Go kick some ass. Lemme know if you get done soon ya?

His message remained unseen till 10:30 pm. She hadn’t come online. He knew, since he had checked more than a few times.

He was about to crash when his phone buzzed.

Ananya: Still in office. Will be a long night. How was your day?

He perked up immediately & grabbed his phone. 

Jude: Talk for a few mins?

Ananya: In conference room with folks, can’t step out.

Deflated, he fell back on the bed, trying to find a comfortable spot. All he needed was some attention from her tonight. For her to fuss over him like she had done yesterday. But alas. 

Jude: Day was ok I guess. Debriefed on the game, lads were being extra nice which was irritating but had a good chat with Boss. How was yours?

Ananya: Hectic, but this deal is so cool it’s blowing my mind.

Jude smiled for the first time today. Her ambition & drive was relatable. Admirable. And so so attractive. 

Ananya: Ok gotta go now. Ciao.

And just like that, his smile faded. 

Jude: Ciao. Eat something. C ya soon!

He twisted & turned in bed a few times. Finally, exhaustion took over and he drifted off to sleep.

Next day was worse, if that was even possible.

He again woke up irritated. The UK tabloids were going to run a trashy story about him & some girl. His team had been contacted for comments & the decision was to not entertain them at all. The story could drop any time now - that was the heads-up he had gotten.

Great, just what he needed.

The message that he wanted to see was not there. Not a single peep from Ananya. He scrolled through the previous messages, re-reading some. And then he froze.

She was going to see the article too. 

Such gossip pieces on him were not uncommon but he mostly ignored them earlier. As did his team. 

But this time, it was different. Because of her. 

He had to get ahead of the situation.

Jude: Morning dove. I know you are busy. Quick heads up - you may see a tabloid piece today about my ‘girlfriend’. It’s all bull ok? I will explain when we talk. 

Burying himself with work seemed like the best solution today. He went extra hard in the gym, pushing himself more, & then some. Letting his irritation be sucked out through sweat and sore muscles.

He was extra feisty in training, didn’t joke around & was super competitive in duels, earning all the applause of the coaching staff and some jeers from his teammates.

Cama and Vini teased him about his new girlfriend who he was apparently smitten by - the article was splashed all over social media by now. He evaded them after engaging in some superficial locker room banter.

Still no reply from her, even though she had seen the first message. 

Jude: (Link) - This is what I was referring to. Like I said, it’s bull. How’s your day going?

When the messages were still unread after 2 hours, he started getting jittery. And did something he wouldn’t have done had he been thinking with a clear head.

He called her, knowing fully well she was dying at work today.

The number was unreachable. He tried again. Same message.

The jitters got stronger. Of the zillion things he was capable of doing to mess this up, this shouldn’t have been it.

It was one of those moments when the house looked emptier. Felt lonelier. He missed his home in Birmingham. He wished his mom were here with him.

She had called him earlier today to check on him, & could tell something was off in his voice. She didn’t push, knowing that he wanted to be left to his own devices.

Boy, he could do with her hug right now.

It was 8:30 pm. He had done everything he could for the day. There was nothing else to busy himself with. His friends from the team were all otherwise occupied tonight. He had no other real, normal friends in the city - ones he trusted/liked enough to hang out with. 

He didn’t wanna talk to his Birmingham friends either - didn’t wanna bring up the article or the match. Wanted to block those out. Jobe was busy with his training too. 

So he gulped his dinner while watching some random episodes of The Great British Bake Off. Something that used to be a family ritual back home.

Still no word from her. It was 10 pm.

It wasn’t fair. He hated feeling this restless. That’s why he stayed away from the complications of attachments - too much fucking drama that he absolutely didn’t need in his life right now. As if the pressures on him weren’t enough already.

His treacherous messed up self didn’t comply with his brain though.

Jude: Don’t overthink this. Talk to me once.

10:30 pm. Still nothing. 

He was about to get up from his couch & drag himself to bed, when he saw the blue ticks started coming on her chat. She hadn’t blocked him then?

He grabbed his phone & dialled her number, shoving his pride aside. She picked up in two rings.

‘Heyyyy Judeyyy.’

She slurred on the line. Jude was stunned. Was this for real? 

He channelled all his inner calmness - wanting to get the facts first.

‘Ananya - are you drunk?’

‘Siiii. We just downed half a bottle of tequila in three sixty minutes. No thirty-six. I meant thirty-six mins.’

He took a few deep breaths, as she giggled on the line. 

‘Tell me where you are. I am picking you up.’

‘I am in a moving car - how will you pick me up from a moving car?’

‘What the fuck do you mean you are in a car? Who are you with? And why the fuck are you drinking in a car?’

He lost his patience despite his best efforts.

‘Yikes why the screaming? Hurting my ears Jude. So rude. Heyyy, that rhymed.’

He nearly pulled out a few of his flawlessly trimmed hair in frustration. When he spoke next, he broke up each word like he was talking to a child.

‘One step at a time yeah? Send me your live location.’

She managed to do that after a few failed attempts. Relief flooded over him when he saw she wasn’t too far from her home & on the right route.

‘Good girl. Now, are you alone, or is someone with you?’

‘I am in a limo. A black limo. Like in the movies. Can you believe it?’

‘That’s great. Not what I asked though. Is someone with you, Ananya?’

‘Roma. But she’s passed out. Wait let me see again? Yup - passed out.’

‘Was it such a smart thing to drink so much that you pass out in the back of a car? When you are alone?’

‘Hey, she passed out. Not me. Pls - my capacity is legendary. Ask me the square root of 1576 & I'll tell you.’

He was amused but had to remind himself that he was still mad. 

‘Where were you today?’

Somehow, from her broken sentences, he gathered that the MD of their team lived on the outskirts of Madrid and there was a presentation of the final work at his mansion today. It was his limos that were dropping the team home. And the girls found the tequila in the car & just went for it after the grueling last 48 hours of work.

He also understood that her phone was on airplane mode most of the day. So she hadn’t seen his messages. Hadn’t seen the article either. 

Suddenly, there was some commotion on the line.

‘Roma is hitting me to talk to you. Putting you on speaker.’

‘Heyyy lover boyyyy - finally.’

This time he couldn’t stop himself from smiling.

‘Well hello to you too.’

‘You should know that you owe me. I convinced Ananya to go to the match. And, most importantly, I convinced her to GO WITH YOU after the match.’

‘Oh, I thought she came because of me. How sad.’

‘A little coz of you. But mostly it was me.’

‘I see. Then I definitely owe you one, Roma.’

‘Remember that when I ask for signed jerseys of the WHOLE TEAM. And Zidane. And of course our one true love Ronaldo.’

‘Ahh you too.’

‘Of course, we share a common love. But Ananya loves him more.’

‘Believe me, I know.’

The car swerved to their street soon after, stopping outside their apartment building.

‘Girls, focus now, ya? - watch your step, go inside, lock the door. Ananya - call me after. I am waiting.’

‘Sir yes sir.’

‘Byeee lover boyyyyy.’

Jude groaned as they hung up - staring at the phone for it to ring again. Praying that they don’t trip & fall on their assess. 

The wait was excruciating. He got to his room, changed into his sleeping shorts, paced around, still nothing. How fuckin irresponsible. Finally, after 13 long mins, she called.

‘What took you so long?’

‘Code wasn’t working. Had to call neighbors to buzz us in.’

‘Wasn’t working or you forgot it?’

‘Pretty sure it wasn’t working.’

He shook his head & let it go, understanding how it was a lost cause. 

Then he started blurting out some instructions to her like ‘re-check the door’, ‘grab some water’, ‘tell me you ate something before drinking’ etc.

Ananya followed them diligently, and the slurring reduced as the liqueur settled down. Still quite out of it, but he could hear the girl he knew in there.

Knowing she was safe now, his mood improved, and her antics even started looking cute. 

‘Facetime?’

It felt like forever since he had seen her last. Held her last. 

When he finally laid eyes on her, all his frustration & anxiety of last two days started to evaporate.

‘Hey you.’

She waved back happily, snuggled into her pillow, still in her work clothes. All dopey from the alcohol. 

‘If I fall asleep on you tonight, don’t take it personally. Haven’t slept in 2 days.’

‘But you kicked ass though didn’t ya? 

Her face brightened, despite the exhaustion.

‘Kinda did.’

‘Knew it. Proud of ya.’

He really was. She could tell. She was starting to learn how to read his bright, expressive, goofy eyes. Tonight, they were deep & sincere. And a little anxious.

‘How’s your mood now?’

20 minutes ago he would have had a very different answer. 

‘Now? All fine, dove.’

She was about to tease him, call him cheesy & sickly sweet but he doubled down with his big brown doe eyes.

‘Missed you.’

Again, the sincerity hit her square in her heart. Throwing her off guard. He seemed different tonight. Vulnerable. The trademark blend of cocky flair & casual nonchalance not at the forefront. 

‘Missed you too.’

She sighed, as her eyes fluttered shut. Not that she had had much time for any active thought the last few days. But seeing him like this just reminded her how much she was looking forward to meeting him last night.

As she gathered herself, he took in her surroundings. The baby pink pillows amused him the most; somehow he hadn’t associated that with her. 

‘Can’t believe this is how I get to see your bedroom. On FaceTime.’

He didn't realize he had said it out loud. She giggled at his groans, batting her eyelashes at him. The vixen.

‘Yeah? What else did you have in mind?’

Jude shifted uncomfortably in the sheets. 

‘Don’t tease. Not tonight.’

‘When’s a good time, then?’

‘When I am in touching distance of you, tease away, by all means.’

‘I am not stupid, Jude.’

‘Never thought you were, dove.’

Challenging each other was kind of becoming their thing. Neither liked backing down & both loved the dynamic.

But she was tired. Ready to drop dead anytime.

‘Gimme 2. Need to change out of these.’

‘Cool, I’ll stay here.’

She placed the phone on the bed. Then, on second thoughts, she covered the phone with her blanket. Suddenly, his screen was filled with baby pandas.

‘Seriously? I was facing the ceiling, what was I gonna see?’

‘Don’t trust you & your peripheral vision.’

Jude groaned audibly, facing the disorienting pandas, starting to seriously dislike the otherwise adorable creatures.

He could hear her bouncing around her room, humming something in a foreign tongue, heels clicking on the floor. Still quite buzzed, clearly.

And then, a loud thump.

‘What happened? You ok?’

‘Zipper got stuck in heels. Knocked over a carton. Am fine.’

Jude turned & buried his face in the pillow, trying very hard to drown out the thoughts of what she was doing right now.

He couldn’t afford to let himself wander, since they hadn’t yet discussed the matter at hand.

But it was hard, he nearly bit the pillow to rein himself in. 

That’s how she found him when she returned in her tank top. The same one she had on that night, when he kissed her. Great.

‘What’s with you?’

She eyed him curiously, and he recovered quickly, game face back on.

‘Need to talk about something.’

‘Go on.’

Something had shifted in the environment. In him. Putting her on the edge.

Ripping off the band-aid quickly seemed like the best strategy to him.

‘A tabloid piece came out today about me & a girl, saying she is my girlfriend and we have been dating for 2 months. Which is not true. Never dated her. No idea how they came up with this. Wanted to give you a heads-up. Sent you the link in chat earlier today.’

He got it all out quickly. Then zeroed in on her face to gauge her reaction.

Her face had hardened like she was preparing for something unpleasant. Expressions too neutral, too blank for his liking. Almost cold. A more agitated reaction would have been less unsettling.

Ananya had a feeling it was something like this. The shield was up. Plus she was too spent to give any kind of outward reaction. 

She replayed his words in her head, and read through the article, while he waited patiently.

Her insta feed was also full of this now. This was everywhere. She found the ID of the woman and clicked on her profile.

‘She is pretty.’

This was not the first thing he had expected to hear. But he had the good sense to know that no response was the best response. Both confirmation and denial would have been scoffed at. 

‘You say you didn’t date her, but you do know her, right? Didn’t hear you deny that.’

Her tone was matter-of-fact, business-like. As if she was slicing & dicing a work project.

‘Yes. I do.’

‘Elaborate.’

‘Met her through insta. Liked some pics of each other. Chatted on DM. Then, met in person. Once.’

‘When?’

‘Two months ago.’

So the article had gotten at least something right.

‘Slept with her?’

Both were surprised by her cutting to the chase like this. The alcohol had lowered her inhibitions significantly plus she wasn't in the mood to entertain any nonsense.

‘Yes.’

‘Why only once?’

‘Sorry?’

‘Why not again? She is pretty.’

‘Umm…she is not from here.’

That wasn’t a good answer, he knew it the moment he said it. It wasn’t the complete truth either. But the damage was done.

‘Any exchanges after?’

‘Not from me.’

The unsaid hung heavily in the air. She chose to not address it. 

Mindlessly, she kept scrolling through the girl’s profile and the details in the article, not wanting to say anything more immediately. Not wanting to look at him, while his eyes were glued to her face throughout. 

Eventually, he couldn’t handle the silence & spoke softly.

‘Remember, this was in the past. Nothing has happened since we met. Nothing will happen.’

The deep baritone was back, trying to lull her into a sense of security. 

She smiled wryly. If only it were that simple to believe. If only her mind was not filled with images of him frolicking at his home with this woman, as was so definitively stated in the article. 

He felt the chasm widening between them, pulling her further away.

Some core truths, albeit crude, needed to be said out loud now. 

‘Ananya - I’ve never lied to you. Never not answered anything you threw my way. Never painted a false picture of my lifestyle. We’ve discussed these encounters before. Yes this put a face to it & I get it’s hard. But that doesn’t change the fact that I was single, and both consenting adults always knew it was just sex, nothing more.’

Her eyes shot up at him at the last line, which he was expecting. But he stood his ground.

‘I can see you are judging me hard, and them too. Look…’

She cut him off sharply.

‘THEM? Who are they to me? Why should I judge women I don’t know anything about?’

‘And me?’

‘YOU? I am TRYING to understand you. Your DECISIONS. It is NOT EASY. Not something I ever imagined dealing with.’

‘I get it.’

He really did. She didn’t hear what he said though, still stuck on his previous words.

‘And THEM? Seriously how many are there? How many such GIRLFRIENDS should I be prepared for?’

He blanked & panicked simultaneously. How was he supposed to answer that? Thankfully, she intervened.

‘You know what? Scratch that. Don’t answer that, I don’t ever wanna know. I don’t care.’

She jerked her face away, trying to compose herself.

But he couldn’t stop staring at her. The usually calm, jovial features a picture of irritation & exhaustion right now. The need to hold her close & comfort her paralyzed him.

‘Can we do this in person? I can be there in 20-25 mins.’

‘NO.’

It was a firm, decisive no. Leaving no scope for discussion. He figured it was also her showing him he wasn’t just gonna get his way with her, that she wasn’t like the others. 

But he knew that already. That’s what had fascinated him so about her. She was unlike anyone he had been with before. How he wished she could see that too.

For the first time, the silence between them was not comfortable. Or comforting. 

The silence was interrupted by constant pings on her phone - two calls followed by a few messages. He saw her eyes go wide as she focused on the screen.

It was 12 am. Jude had a sinking feeling who it could be from. Last two days, he had really behaved himself. Despite knowing she would have spent every waking minute at work around that insufferable colleague of hers. Sticking to her like a leech. Pinging her at odd times. 

But, in a grand display of restraint, Jude hadn't uttered a word to her. It was her work after all. 

‘Jude I’m gonna need two mins.’

She muttered urgently, getting up from the bed.

‘I will stay online if that’s ok.’

‘Fine.’

She was already out the door, leaving the phone, leaving him behind.

Jude found himself facing the ceiling of her room again. Seriously, what the fuck just happened? Could this day get any more rotten?

She returned in a minute. He could hear her but not see her yet. Bile rose in his throat when he realised who she was talking to.

‘Hey Arjun, yes I found it. It’s with me now. Thank you so much for letting me know, this could have gone anywhere. You are a lifesaver.’

A pause for a few seconds, in which Jude plotted getting that cockroach permanently banned from the Bernabeu (Ananya had mentioned how big a fan he was), and then her voice again. Filled with genuine gratitude. Jude wanted to puke. 

‘Yeah all good, thanks again. Good night, see you tmrw.’

If her intent was to hurt Jude, then someone should hand her the Balon d’or immediately.

Ananya hung up, came back to the bed, and realized her phone was not on mute. She couldn’t find it in herself to care though, not right now.

‘All ok?’

Jude would have put monks to shame at the evenness he was able to muster in his voice.

‘Roma was drunk-texting on our work group. Some questionable stuff. Hv deleted the texts, will keep her phone tonight. Glad Arjun alerted me.’

And just like that, evenness went out the window. Replaced with sarcasm, laced with disdain.

‘How sweet of him, what a gentleman.’

Ananya turned the full force of her glare at Jude, which he met head on. Fire dancing in both their eyes. 

‘Would you GROW UP? Not everything is about you. And yes, he IS a gentleman. Your petulance will not change that.’

‘A FUCKIN TWAT is what he is. Always interrupting us. Always trying to cozy up to you. Even when he doesn’t have a shot. Classic small-dick energy. Quite fuckin LITERALLY in his case.’

Ananya could punch him through the screen. The insufferable, entitled, derisive prick that he was being. So full of himself. He needed to be put in his place. 

‘Yeah? Maybe I should verify that.’

The bodyblow landed as intended. Making him double over with pain.

Jude felt like someone had kicked him in the gut and in the nuts at the same time. His throat went dry and his hands turned clammy.

The numbness hitting his brain, then his body. The rage dissipated & he realised he didn’t have a leg to stand on, given how they had gotten here tonight.

Plus she would never do the thing she hates the most. She would never cheat, he was convinced.

His tone went down several notches, as did his attitude.

‘I know you are angry. I know you didn’t mean it.’

‘Oh no - I really do want..’

‘ANANYA PLEASE. Please. Slap me if you want to, smack me all that you like but NOT THIS. Please.’

The distress in his choked voice made her stop. Knocking the fight out of her. 

Her voice lost its edge, coming out in a whisper.

‘A hypothetical scenario broke you. Whereas….you…..you have actually..’

She didn’t finish the sentence. But the message was well understood.

‘I know it’s unfair. Even hypocritical of me. But I can’t help it. Can’t handle even the idea of you with anyone else. I want all of you. All for me. All the time. I’d go nuts otherwise I swear.’

This moment, she saw a young, sensitive, insecure boy in Jude, not the mature, articulate, sorted, in-control grown man known to the world. 

She found it strangely healing; a distinct warmth seeping into her skin and settling into the pit of her stomach. 

It was 12:30. Two emotionally charged hours they had spent on the phone. Dead tired from work. Yet, the idea of hanging up & calling it a night never occurred to either. 

Just then, her doorbell rang, making her jump.

‘Don’t be alarmed. Answer it.’

She eyed him curiously, checking his background again. He was still in his bed. 

‘What did you do now?’

‘Answer the door & you’ll see.’

Huffing, she got out of bed & walked out. Leaving him facing the ceiling again. Third time that night.

When she came back, he finally saw a ghost of a smile on her lips. And the light returned to her gorgeous soft eyes.

She was still gazing at the bouquet, stroking & smelling with contentment.

‘White Tulips for dove. Thought it’d be fitting.’

‘Jude.’

She sighed deeply, and buried her head in the flowers, letting the strong scent drown her senses.

This was never going to be easy, she knew that from the start. But every time she got wobbly, he steadied her. Every time doubts pulled her away, he clawed his way back to her. Lack of effort was definitely not something she could hold against him. 

Maybe he means what he says. Maybe it is different for him this time.

She turned to look at his smiling face, still leaning on the flowers.

‘How did you even find these in the middle of the night?’

‘To be fair I ordered them in the evening, when I thought you blocked me.’

‘Blocked you?’

He just shrugged in response. Slightly embarrassed but trying to not show it.

She laughed at the absurdity of it all, and he finally let go too, letting himself relax. The sound of his little giggles bounced on her ears, doing things to her.

‘You are such a loon.’

‘Wanna be your loon.’

She was starting to melt now and wanted to arrest the fall. So she switched gears.

‘Tell me - what was the plan if I had blocked you?’

There had to be a plan. He wasn’t the kind to take things lying down. 

‘Cheesecake & churros from our cafe tmrw morning. Along with a letter stating how a 20-year-old boy has the same psychological maturity as a 15-year-old girl. Therefore you should cut me some slack given women are far smarter biologically and also coz you are you. I’m not saying it, science is. Facts.’

‘Reallyyyyy? So a 20 yr old boy lacks psychological maturity, but somehow that’s not a problem when he fucks half the world with impunity? What does science say about that? No disadvantage there?’

Jude’s mouth opened and closed like a fish, still trying to process how his attempted humour had backfired in about 50,000 ways.

To his credit, he recovered fast.

‘See? A smart person would not have walked into that hole like I did. Exhibit A of how dumb I am. This just proves my point.’

‘How come the world fawns over your intelligence & maturity then?

‘They don’t know me. It’s a scam. Trent says I should still be in diapers. He said that to Jobe once & the little scoundrel agreed.'

He had done it again. Pacified her without her even realising. Yeah, she wasn’t buying the dumb act. This boy knew his power & used it unabashedly, to his full advantage.

It was 1 am. She yawned while checking the time & Jude suddenly got hit by pangs of guilt.

He would let her go soon, just needed to hear one thing.

‘We ok? 

He barely blinked till she responded.

‘I guess so.’

She shrugged, realising she wasn’t mad anymore.

He figured that’s the best he would get tonight. But soon, when they are together, he’ll make up for this mess.

It was time to let her get some well deserved rest.

Jude leaned in, eyes firmly locked into hers, and kissed his phone screen. He had never done that for another girl before. But this one, she made him do this twice in a span of 2 days.

She followed his movement closely, meeting his gaze. Somehow feeling his lips brush her skin. 

‘End my misery and meet me soon?’

She nodded, and he flashed her a trademark ear-to-ear Jude smile. Crinkling eyes n all. Making her heart leap in her chest. 

‘Now go, get some rest. And since you won’t let me come over, hug the flowers instead when you sleep tonight. You’ll feel me around.’

‘Bye Jude.’

‘Bye dove.’

Goes without saying, she did hug the flowers as she slept that night. 

...............................................................................................

This chapter was very different in my head when I posted the previous one. But then, stuff happened the last few days & I felt like writing about it.

As always, would love to hear your thoughts / comments / feedback. Hope you are liking the story & these two, lots more to come :)

[the-amalgam-house]

Fuck the fucking thoughts! The last memories I have of my dad pre-addiction pre-anger explosions were literally worn I was SIX years old... he became a cop with I was 8, I have no idea where 7 went, and he started drinking and being incredibly angry and just.

He'd been that way ever since. I know it's PTSD. It manifests in anger and alcoholism. Even now he has so much trouble keeping away, even if overall he's softened on the after part.

My brother never really got to see him without the drink and without the anger. His whole entire self aware life had just been that version of Papi. He never got to see the man I knew. There's still a good bit of that man in there and you can see it in his tender/sober/stable moments. He loves children and he's always had this sense of pride and being self sufficient. But my siblings never really got to see the non angry man that was our dad. I was old enough to remember.

The drinking poisoned him...or, well, the police force maybe did it first. Idk. He hurt us so much, and honestly I can only be but so mad at him now, knowing that he himself was hurting. Hurt people hurt people after all. And you can never again be a previous version of yourself, so there's no real use in wishing there was. It's just grief that keeps coming back, over and over again.

I can remember him setting up a little treasure nap game in the back yard. Michael was in a carrier and Nina and I were given a hand drawn map to figure out where the hidden items were. I remember Papi going outside in the cold when I couldn't just to build a snowman while I watched in the window. He'd throw snowballs at that window to make me laugh. I remember when he helped me to not be afraid of the sharks in the aquarium by carrying me and holding close while we got closer, and realized the glass was keeping us safe. That Papi would keep me safe from the sharks. He did the same with me for thunder storms, tho I was too young to remember that one.

I remember how utterly severely upset I was when he had to go back to NY for 2 weeks after we moved to VA. I felt like I would never see him again. Probably the second most traumatic thing I'd faced in my life up to that point, the first being invasive and painful allergy testing when I was...idk, like 5. I remember him when he was initially softened by having kids. That was probably roughly the last time I remember all of us being as close to completely happy as I was able to comprehend.

I remember the time he and Mami got into one of their many screaming matches. Mami was made to walk outside, Papi locked the door. Mami banged on the door for what seemed like forever, and I went out of my room to try to help. But Papi was still awake, and threatened to hit me off I didn't go back to bed. I froze in fear, until he gave in and told me to open the front door. Mami had to hide her anger and sadness when it was me who opened the door and not him.

I remember calling for his help when Mikey was hitting me. I was crying already and Papi was the only adult in the house, but he was sleeping. 12 and 14 hour shifts as an officer, and the rule was not to wake him up. But who else could I have cried to for help? So he woke up, hit me with a belt for waking him up, then hit my brother 5 or 6 times for hitting me. Mikey doesn't remember it, but for me it's clear as day.

I remember Papi completely trashing our room (Nina and I shared a room our whole life then), just because we didn't clean it like ye wanted. My cute hand made candles had been crushed under the bookshelf they had been decorating just outside the bedroom, now sitting in a heap in the middle of the floor. Michael said it happened twice, but I only remember once.

I remember the times he would punch walks, Break Michael's door, throw and break glass. Blood everywhere. From age 9 to 22. Flying into a rage at the drop of a hat, everyone being so afraid of him even if he didn't physically hurt us (not after age 10). When she was at her lowest, Mami did the same to him. It didn't help, but she reached her limit. I remember her worry when I punched and broke my flimsy tin closet door. She was going to chase him, but the sound scared her and she came to me instead.

I remember, only after being reminded by my brother, when they were both out drinking and promised to be back to make dinner and couldn't come back, so I had to come up with dinner instead. I had to be maybe 11 or 12. I still don't actually fully remember it, because it wasn't me, but it's a vague feeling in my mind now.

I remember feeling so worthless and hopeless that I couldn't get to my baby brother, having to be alone in his own room, while Nina and I had each other to cry with. I remember two years after he left the force, and the same year he almost died, was the first time I truly wanted to kill myself. I'd always thought about running away before, but couldn't leave my mom and siblings behind. I'd thought about telling my dad I hated him, but it wasn't true and I was afraid anyway. I thought the only solution would be if I just stopped existing cause I couldn't take it anymore. How sad is that? A freshman in high school wanting to die cause the drunk father they once looked up to became unbearably abusive.

He wouldn't call it abuse though. He had it much worse, as he would often bring up. He was abused, but wouldn't call it abuse either, at least not what his mom did. She used to be a really rough woman, tho I've only known her to be soft and sweet in my lifetime.

I remember when I found out what really happened to my dog, my best friend, Tymber. How Papi was so angry after a long shift that he threw my dog against a wall and broke his leg. That I never got to see my only friend again cause the vet didn't want to send him back to an abusive home. That happened just before I turned 12, and I didn't learn the truth until about 19-ish. Do you know how devastated I was? I still have a picture of him somewhere, my little puppy, barely a year old and terrified of my dad, just like the rest of us.

I do remember some good times too. He tried to make up for all the work time with high quality time together. We watched DBZ every week. He took us on father-kid trips both in a group and individually. He liked taking us to amusement parks and carnivals when he could. He danced with me at my sweet 16, and took me to walk around downtown after. We did have some good times, and I love him.

I just hate everything he did to us. I hate that he can't even remember it. I hate that alcohol has eaten away at his mind for over 20 years and you can see how it's poisoned him. I hate what his family did to him.

[thegameoflovetrilogy]

MEET ISABELLE: THE HEART OF THE GAME OF LOVE.

He looked at her and froze. She was stunning! He couldn’t remember ever seeing a woman prettier than her…or was that the alcohol messing with his head?…and what was a woman like that doing in a strip club? Jordan was standing there looking at him waiting for an answer and he couldn’t say a single word. Oh yes, she was beautiful. Her long blond hair was straight and silky, falling over her naked shoulders. Her eyes were dark and shiny…staring at him… wow!“What was your name, love?” She asked again and smiled, showing her perfect white teeth. Jordan was 5´8 tall and around 125 pounds, put together in an incredibly fine, and at the same time, very sexy package. Her legs were longer than most of the models Nick had seen in NY. Her breasts were just right, not too big, but not too small either. All natural and wrapped in flawless skin. Nick was lost. The girl standing in front of him was breathtaking. She barely had on any makeup, which was a most unusual thing for a place like this. Her big brown eyes were looking straight into his, with a wondering, surprised look in them, as if she were asking herself,“What’s wrong with this man?” He just wanted to touch her, make sure she was real. Before he could do anything, she turned around and walked away. She was so graceful, it was almost unreal. What was that woman doing here and where did she come from? What was her name again? All these questions were bouncing in his mind. He had to do something. He had to find her again, talk to her.

[marcusforst]

Dec 2022: DC Christmas. I arrived to a frigid east coast, with temperatures down to 10 degrees F. Because I was only arriving on the 23rd and my parents now live within an hour of my aunt and uncle, we decided to have our first Christmas away from upstairs NY. Our first trek was a valiant trip into DC to the air and space museum. We almost froze walking to Union Station for dinner but managed to get some cute photos in front of the tree. Karl and I decided that we wanted to cook our family's Christmas meal and made elaborate plans to bake pizzas for everyone. Our timing worked out great and we had a nice Christmas Eve of puzzle making, game playing and German Christmas Carol singing. The rest of break was a classic east coast visit. We washed cars and watched the eagles with my dad, we went on walks and made picture books with my mom, we ate Oma's delightful cookies, and Karl and I cooked, played basketball, and watched YouTube together. We had a second Christmas with Nana and a third with Ruthie, which were both very sweet. It was the perfect way to unwind after a long and intense time abroad. 1, 10: freezing in dc 2: Christmas eve dinner 3: Forst family car washing technique 4: forest walk 5: Nana banana 6: cooking in Fairfax 7: back breaking puzzle 8: beautiful east coast sunset with car 9: a farm in Southern Pennsylvania (at Gaithersburg MD) https://www.instagram.com/p/CnmzTkpPePh/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[halsteadshailey]

So you are seeing someone?

upstead fluff/angst one shot

Hailey meets someone while working with the FBI in New York but when she comes home to her partner, her best friend, how long will that relationship last?

can also be read on wattpad or ao3

——

set at the beginning of s8 after hailey gets back from ny (i’m going with hailey being in new york for 4 weeks bcos i’m not sure if they ever told us how long she was supposed to be there but i know tracy she was supposed to be in more fbi eps but cldnt bcos of corona , sorry if this is wrong)

*slight language*

——

For the first couple of weeks that Hailey had been out in New York to work with the FBI, her and Jay had FaceTimed religiously. In the morning on the way to work, whenever they could both catch a break at the same time, and on their drives home, most importantly though, once they were both home and settled. It was as close to ‘their thing’ they could get after a long day of work while separated by hundreds of miles.

After about 14 days, Jay was starting to notice something different about Hailey, they were calling less, even her texting game was off. She was starting to be busy more frequently in the evenings and her texts had become rare, short and sweet.

On the Wednesday evening of her third week away, Jay decided to bring it up while they were on FaceTime.

“Hey what’s been going on over there?” he questioned “I feel like we haven’t talked in ages”

Hailey’s brows furrowed a little as she struggled to think of what to say, anything to say to avoid Jay finding out about Liam, she wasn’t ready to tell him and definitely not over the phone when she wasn’t even sure how serious things were.

“Yeah, sorry about that, we’ve had lots of tough cases, I’ve been working late” she said.

Her partner knew she wasn’t telling the truth, he could always tell. However, he didn’t want to push, it wasn’t worth it after the long day that he’d had and he knew that Hailey would tell him whatever it was when she wanted to so he settled on saying:

“Don’t work yourself too hard” with a chuckle.

The two spoke for a little bit longer after that, Jay telling Hailey about all the weird things Kev and Adam have been up to and Hailey realising how much she misses her Intelligence family, not that she would ever tell Jay that.

A few days passed and all the interaction that the detectives had had with one another was through text, but when Saturday came around Jay needed to change that.

It was around 10:30pm when he shot her a text:

‘Hey, I know it’s late but I just got home from a tough case and was wondering if you’re free to call?’

Luckily for him, Hailey replied to Jay’s text only a few minutes later by calling him.

“Hey how are you?” she said when she saw that her partner had connected to the call.

“I’m ok, just needed to do our thing i guess” the emphasis Jay put on the ‘our thing’ was slight, but it was there. “How are y-“ he paused.

“What?”

“You’re wearing make-up, you never wear make-up, am I interrupting something? A date?” Jay teased.

Without thinking, Hailey replied with “As a matter of fact, you texted me just before dessert so it was actually perfect timing”

Jay froze, trying to process that words that he just heard. It’s not like he thought that Hailey wasn’t allowed to go on dates, he didn’t own her. But he was jealous, a lot more jealous that he would care to admit. Deep down he knew that it was his fault, he’d had feelings for Hailey for a long time and didn’t do anything about it because ‘nothing good comes out of a workplace romance’ or whatever bullshit he had told himself.

“Was it not going well? If you wanted to get out of there before dessert I mean” he clarified.

“No, no, it was going great. I just meant it made an ok place to stop so I could check on you” she responded.

“I’m sorry, you shouldn’t have left, if I had known I wouldn’t have texted” Jay said, in an attempt to clear the air. Their conversation had become quite stale and neither of them were willing to accept that it was just awkward.

“Jay, stop” Hailey said, causing her partner to crack a small smile. “If you need to talk to me after a bad case, that’s the only place I want to be. I’m always here for you, even when we’re this far away” the last part was delivered with a bit of scorn.

“Thanks Hailey, and you too” he said, lifting a little bit of weight off both of their shoulders as they began to flow back into normal conversation.

Another week had passed and Hailey had told Jay a little more about Liam, but only if it came up in conversation so currently all he knew was his name and his job and what his coffee order is (he’d heard Hailey getting it for him while they were on FaceTime). She quickly realised that Jay didn’t enjoy listening to her talk about him so she tried to keep it lowkey.

During her last few days in New York, Hailey and Liam came to the mutual decision that they wouldn’t take the relationship any further. They had a lot of fun while it lasted but they both knew that long distance relationships were a lot of effort and with the jobs they had, it would just but impractical.

While she was waiting in the airport for her flight back to Chicago, Hailey found herself saddened by the fact that her and Jay hadn’t texted or called for a couple of days so she opened her phone, pulled up Jay’s contact and called it.

No answer, so she texted.

‘About to board my plane, just wanted to check in’

Jay sent a response quickly.

‘Sorry, deep in a case. Have a safe flight, text me when you land’

She decided to shrug it off but Hailey knew something wasn’t right.

The journey felt like years but after her flight and a taxi ride home, Hailey was finally back in her own apartment in Chicago. It was 2am when she arrived so when she reached her bedroom she quickly changed and got straight into bed, falling asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow.

The next morning she got up, easily slipping back into her normal routine and went to work. Voight had had offered for her to take a few days to get settled back into Chicago and sleep off the jet lag but she politely declined as she just wanted her normal back.

The day went pretty slowly, no major cases, but Jay was acting different and Hailey knew it. When she first showed up at work she got warm welcomes from Trudy and the whole unit but nothing from Jay, they barely said two words to each other all day that weren’t work-related and it was making Hailey a little upset.

Since they had spent most of the day doing paperwork, the team got sent home at a reasonable time. Adam and Kim left together closely followed by Kevin as Voight silently worked in his office.

Hailey entered the locker room where she knew she would find Jay, and she was right.

As she hesitantly walked through the doorway, Hailey spoke. “Can we talk?”

Jay wasn’t facing the door when his partner walked in but, upon hearing her voice, he quickly adjusted his positioning on the bench he had planted himself on to grab his stuff from his locker so he was looking at her.

“Sure” he replied softly, pretty confident he knew what she wanted to talk about.

“Come over to mine in about half an hour?” Hailey asked.

Jay nodded in response and they both grabbed their things and walked to the parking lot together.

They walked in silence but it wasn’t their usual, comfortable, silence. The air around the two was stiff. Either way, it wasn’t long before they reached their cars and headed their separate ways.

Almost exactly half an hour later, Hailey heard a knock at her door. She got up from her position on her couch and went to answer the door, knowing it would be her partner on the other side.

“Hey” Jay said with a weak smile as Hailey opened the door and he walked inside.

He set his jacket on one of the hooks by the door as he always did when he was at her apartment and made his way to her couch.

Sitting in silence on opposite ends of the furniture both detectives waited for the other to talk first and after a few uncomfortable seconds, Hailey decided that it was probably fair for her to talk first seeing as she was the one who wanted to talk to him and she invited him over.

“What is going on with you?” she asked, not wanting to beat around the bush, just getting straight to the point.

“What are you talking about?”

“Oh come on Jay, don’t give me that crap. You haven’t spoken to me at all since I got back from New York so I’m sorry for assuming my best friend would have more to say after I left for 4 weeks” Hailey rebuked at Jay’s easy response.

“I guess I figured you’d wanna catch up with the team rather than talk to me seeing as we spoke to each other so much while you were over there” he said but Hailey knew that wasn’t the truth.

She started to get angrier but did her best not to show it and kept her cool.

“Well that’s a load of bull” she snapped. “We both know that over the second half of my trip we barely spoke, compared to the first two weeks anyway”

“Oh and thats my fault?” Jay jabbed back, beginning to feel anger rise in himself. Still, they both sat in the same spots on the couch and neither raised their voice.

“Well is it mine?” Hailey replied.

“More like your boyfriend’s” Jay murmered without thinking.

Hailey couldn’t believe what he had just said.

“Is that why you’ve been weird for these past weeks?” She asked “You’re jealous of Liam?”

That word ‘jealous’ played with his head but Jay didn’t reply, still regretting even bringing it up.

“Not that its any of your business, but he wasn’t my boyfriend” Hailey hissed and moved her body to a much more upright position, but keeping their eye contact. “It was a two-week fling, it didn’t mean anything” she continued with a quizzical look on her face.

“Wait so you guys aren’t together anymore?” Jay asked, a little taken aback by what his partner had just said.

“No, we ended things the day before I left because we agreed it was just a bit of fun and neither of us had the want to try a long distance relationship.” she said while relaxing back into the couch again.

Silence fell in the room for a moment as Hailey waited for Jay to say something but instead he just stayed where he was and his brows furrowed.

“Is that really why you’ve been acting weird?” she finally asked when she realised Jay had no intention of speaking.

Still not saying a word, Jay shrugged his shoulders a little embarrassed that he had even made this into a thing, it’s not like he could control who Hailey was dating.

“Oh my god will you please say something or I’m abut to get really mad” she exclaimed with a little more volume.

Jay had no idea what he could say without confessing his feelings right there in the middle of her living room so he kept his mouth shut which really pushed Hailey over the edge.

“Jay” she scoffed “for fuck’s sake what are you doing? You’re in no place to act like this because of a guy I dated for like a minute, last time I checked this partnership wasn’t an exclusive relationship and I can date whoever the hell I want” she began to stand up and continued “Just because you’re not looking for someone doesn’t mean I can’t be”

In reality, both of them knew exactly who they really wanted to date and it was none other than the person right in front of them at that very moment but neither were ready to admit that. Or so they thought, Jay’s mind had other plans.

“Who says a haven’t already found them?” Jay whispered, loud enough for Hailey to hear.

That was the second time this evening that Jay had said something that was meant to be kept in his head. ’God I really need to think more before I speak’ he thought.

“What?” Hailey asked, sitting back down.

“I didn’t mean-“ Jay began.

“So you are seeing someone” Hailey cut in.

“What?” his forehead creased “no, I’m not seeing anyone” he said truthfully.

“But you just said you found-“

“You, Hailey” and he did it again, Jay spoke before he could stop himself. However, this time, it proved to work in his favour, as a large smile appeared on his partner’s face.

For Chicago’s best detectives, both Jay and Hailey looked pretty stupid right now. But not stupid in a bad way, stupid in a huge-smile-on-your-face-don’t-know-what-to-say way.

For a second, they both remained still, not entirely sure what had just happened and where to go from there. Then Hailey made a spur of the moment decision and launched herself at Jay.

First she put a hand on his cheek and that was quickly followed by her placing her lips to his and pulling her leg over his knees so she was sitting in his lap and they were face to face.

Without ever breaking the kiss, Jay’s hands momentarily explored Hailey’s body, mainly moving up and down her torso, whereas Hailey kept both hands on his cheeks or gently around his neck, softly touching the hair on the back of his head.

Both were very content as it felt like the whole world was slipping away and they were all that existed. Hailey could feel a huge smile on Jay’s face as they kissed and it only made hers grow wider as their tongues intertwined and they bit at each other’s lips.

Though they had exchanged no words further than Jay implying that Hailey was all he was looking for, neither of them felt it was necessary.

Since they day they had met, the two had gone from strangers, to partners, to best friends, to admitting they trust each other more than anyone else and would follow each other blind. But they had always been Hailey and Jay, and thats exactly what they were that night, nothing had changed between them apart from the enormous weight that was their unspoken love for each other was lifted off their shoulders and they were just Hailey and Jay.

[tracynotabi]

Riptide Day 2 / Undertow

September 11, 2021

D-Day.

Kevin, Ivan, Joey, and I were getting a ride from Spencer, who was also taking Narq to the venue, while Robert and Parker got a ride from someone else. Well, at least we didn’t have to walk to the venue. I didn’t pack sunscreen.

At 9am, about half an hour we were supposed to leave, Kevin gets a stomachache.

Me: He just needs to poop. Spencer: The classic.

We end up going to the lobby to wait for Spencer in Narq, which was fine considering we actually didn’t want Spencer, our ride, waiting for us.

Spencer: Okay, Narq’s just using the bathroom rq lol Me: Is he also having tummy problems Spencer: Nah just bein stoner and forgetting to do stuff lol Me: The classic

We go get Chick-fil-A and I’m sitting underneath the dashboard again by Kevin’s feet. I think the employees were very bewildered, as the woman on the other side of the window did a double take. I would, too, if I saw a smaller-than-average person just hiding underneath the dashboard sipping on a cup of Coke.

Some time after I get to the venue during doubles, I end up talking to Jimmy (j u m), when Kevin comes rushing over to me, a panicked look on his face.

Forgot to mention, but Kevin actually couldn’t get all of his poop out before coming to the venue and now it is back with a vengeance.

He tells me that he’s unable to go to any restroom because there were three stalls in the men’s restroom: two were occupied and one was clogged with poop.

He had tried flushing the poop one but it only made it worse. It just clogged more and the water level rose. If he had sat down and insisted on finishing, his balls would be touching the water and that’s a no-no.

He tried asking the front desk for other restrooms, but he was informed it was the only one. He was desperate and you could just see it in his eyes that he was about to break.

Me, using the big, wrinkly brain that I had, told him to use the women’s restroom. He froze, not even realizing that that was an option.

Now before anyone complains, hear me out.

I would rather be in a restroom with a male in the stall next to me, than exit the restroom and see someone standing outside the men’s restroom trying to wait for a stall with a shit stain in his pants. Excuse the vulgarity, but it’s true.

If you’re ever at one of my tournaments and you need to go and no male restroom is unoccupied, for the love of god, please fucking use the women’s restroom. I do not need this mess on my hands and you best believe I’m shoving myself in the men’s restroom if I gotta fucking go expel unicorns and rainbows.

I go to the restroom with Kevin and stand awkardly on my phone to keep watch, because he didn’t want any of the staff members actually seeing him and risk himself getting kicked out of the venue.

That would’ve been extremely unfortunate.

Luckily, nobody else needed to go use the restroom while Kevin was in there and he was able to safely compete his duty (lol).

If anyone is upset at my suggestion, I’m sorry, but I wasn’t about to not provide such a simple solution for Kevin’s emergency.

Anyway, the tournament start shortly after that.

First match I pay attention to is Kevin vs. Wombat. In my head, I think it’s pools so I shouldn’t worry too much. I try to watch Kevin’s sets, but it makes me physically ill sometimes because my anxiety is wracked up like crazy and I just want to throw up. Many have witnessed me walking away and trying to distract myself multiple times at multiple different tournaments.

It’s like that gory horror movie that you can’t keep looking away from.

Besides knowing that I get sick, I figured it would be fine since I actually enjoy trying to support my boyfriend and watch him come out of pools winners’ side. Not meaning any disrespect by Wombat, by the way. He’s great. Just realistic. It’s like how I expect Kevin to lose to Bob.

Kevin loses Game 1.

Ooh my tummy’s doing barrel rolls like the way Twisty did with that pullout bed. I look away but I’m just so distracted by the crowd noises.

I totally get it, though. Obviously, it’s sick that Wombat’s holding his own against Kevin, who is seed 3 of the tournament. I’d be excited, too, if my friend was making an upset on someone else. But Kevin’s my boyfriend, so obviously, I want him to win.

Kevin barely wins Game 2 and I’m like ooooh boy. My tummy’s going to town and I think I gag a little by how sick I feel. Gotta focus on getting Joey his next match. *deep breaths*

When heartswaptv airs the whole tournament, definitely check out the set. It was really good (as far as I can hear, I couldn’t bring myself to watch the rest of it).

Kevin comes over to me after he’s out of pools and I scold him for making me worried.

AND YOU NOW WHAT HE SAYS?

Kevin: Babe, it’s fine - I almost lost to Zeddy at Redacted City and I got 2nd. I’ll be fine. Me: T____T *incoherent whining noises*

Does Kevin thinks he’s fucking cute for saying that or something? I was not amused.

Since I didn’t have to volunteer TO the entirety of the tournament, I bounced around mingling with other people.

At one point, I get a message from Suvir in our group chat about how he, Sosa, and Narq were planning on coming to visit NorCal. Of course, since Narq was already here, I decided to just go up to him and ask.

Me: So I heard you’re coming to NorCal? Narq: I am? Me: That’s what Suvir said. *shows phone* Narq: I guess I’m going to NorCal!

Suvir: Narq doesn’t actually know. Sosa just said he’d take him with him and said Narq would agree to go because he’s Narq. Me: Oh that makes sense why he had no idea what I was talking about.

It wasn’t until around top bracket did things start to pick up. Not too many spoilers, because (1) no spoilers before they upload the vod and (2) I have a terrible memory when it comes to the matches.

I remember holding up Kevin’s phone to stream to our Discord because we had some non-PM player friends who wanted to see and I think Kevin wanted Thomas (ThundeRzReiGN) to give him some advice throughout the tournament. Not actually coach, but to critique his play.

As more and more top players fell, Kevin made it a goal to do his best not to fall into the landmine that was Losers’. So many heavy hitters were large threats to him: Techboy, Malachi, Akimi, Cloudburst...

Not to say that Winners’ side didn’t have their fair share of monsters: Peter, Parker, Kumatora, Twisty, Nogh, Lunchables...

Kevin’s first match in Top 32 was against Bongo, who people sleep on quite a lot. For those of you that don’t know him, he’s a Captain Falcon from NY who actually beat Kevin at Flex Zone 3 in 2018. Kevin had beaten him at Encore, but it wasn’t easy.

Not to mention Falcon is a pain the butt for Mario. Unfortunately, the match was not recorded (as far as I know), and it was a very exciting match from what I heard. I avoided watching it because based on how long it took, I knew it had to have been a Game 5. During that time, two matches have been finished on “stream.”

Kevin had said his match against Bongo was the toughest one he had - not to discredit his other opponents, of course - but according to him, it was the scariest and closest. Also the threat of being put into Losers so early would’ve made the climb to Top 8 a lot harder.

His overall goal was actually to make Top 8. Despite being a third seed and rank 5, what I’ve noticed about Kevin is that he does have doubts about himself quite often. He’s never complacent in his opponents and worries all the time about being upset and I don’t think anyone puts more pressure on him more than himself.

As I watched my friends progress through bracket, all I can think is there’s not much I can do. I don’t understand the game very much, despite my heavy involvement in the scene. In fact, more often than not, I believe I understand the game the least compared to everyone else.

A tangent from the actual tournament itself is coming, but I think I should address why I’m even in this community:

While everyone loves the game, I love the community behind it. I find it worth it to sit/stand in one location for hours at a time because it allows my friends to enjoy the game they love comfortably without worrying how the tournament is progressing. They can focus on their own growth and passion.

I think what I see is completely different. Like I said, I don’t really understand this game - I can’t differentiate uairs, bairs, d-smashes, etc. I compute it in my head, but can’t visualize it. I don’t recognize most combos - in fact, more often than not, I’m sitting there just staring at the screen kind of blankly. Sometimes, it does make me wonder if I really am part of this community because I don’t really understand the game.

I can’t say I particularly care too much about the game, but I understand how much of an impact it’s made on me and for that, I’m very thankful for this game because it’s led me to some great people.

Back to the actual event and less sap. lol. Is anybody still even reading?

For something put together in a mere two weeks, Trin and their team did an amazing job. Three recording set ups, graphics, a pot, a venue... props to them for gathering the scraps and making a whole out of it. And to think we almost didn’t go.

Madeline (Swanner) ended up coming and it was honestly so good to see her. We aren’t particularly close, but she’s someone I’ve come to care for and just want happiness for her.

Major spoiler, but I don’t think anybody who cares about PM/P+ doesn’t know Kevin won the tournament.

Everyone expected a pop-off, but Kevin just sat there, crying.

I don’t think there’s ever been anything that Kevin has been more passionate about. He loves this game; he loves this community. Never did it ever occur to him that he would win.

I wish I could say more, but honestly, him winning stunned me speechless. And if you didn’t know, the first thing he said after was that he had to call his mother.

His mom is one of his biggest supporters and I love her to death. She has such a huge heart and has never, ever frowned upon Kevin’s love for the game, whole-heartedly supporting it.

I hugged Maddy, because I can’t even imagine how heart-breaking it must be for her to see what could have been on the mainstage. I imagined how much it must’ve hurt her because she just loves the game and the community, but to see it constantly be torn down by Nintendo and her unable to do anything... Give Maddy a hug and thank her if you see her. She deserves the world.

We ended up walking home with PNW, Bob, Mar, Bongo, Cameron (LoyaL), Ivan, and a few others, honestly too dark to completely see and name. It was a very nice night.

We did, however, pass by the rundown house that definitely looked like if we were to talk in there, we’d be killed by the axe murderer that lived there.

Kevin also lagged behind a lot because his phone notifications were going off like crazy and I was worried he was going to just get lost in the darkness or get hit by a car. Stop looking at your phone when you cross the street, dammit.

We got back to our hotel room and ordered pizza - it was bad. God-fucking-dammit, Ohio, why do you suck so much? Kind of a shitty dinner to end the day on, but nothing else was open at 2am. FeelsBadMan.

[0vorenation0]

Jakes Surprise (Part 2 Final)

(Warning~ This story does not contain vore or any sexual components.)

Jakes bf turned to me and looked down, thinking about what the plan was. While he thought I opened my suit case and grabbed Jakes Bday gift. I couldn’t wait till tomorrow so I wanted to give it to him when he saw I was here for birthday. Once I got it out and placed it to the side, Jakes bf had an idea.

Jakes bf~”I got it Cal, I’m gonna act like I have a early surprise for him like a present. Then I’m gonna tell him to cover his eyes and I’ll bring you out and we will surprise him.”

Me~” That’s perfect, okay we got a game plan. Alright u go get jake and I’ll wait here until u come and get me.”

Jakes bf left and went to go get Jake, I stood there waiting for him and while he did that I put my clothes in the dresser. Jakes bf came in right after I was done and gestures me to come slowly and quietly. I took off my shoes so he couldnt hear two sets of shoes and walked with him. We got to the living room when I saw my buddy Jake standing there eyes covered.

Jake~” come on bud what’s the surprise, you didn’t get a puppy or something cuz I don’t think we’re ready for that kind of commitment.”

Jakes bf~” not quite a puppy but your going to love it, it’s something you would never have expected and you will most likely never forget it.”

Jake~”surprises are scary when I’m not the one doing them can I open my eyes yet!!”

I stood in front of him and jakes bf counted from three.

Jakes bf~” 3, 2, 1 open your eyes jake!!!!! Happy Birthday!!!!”

Jake opens his eyes real quick and his eyes widened as he froze in shock.

Me~” how’s this for a birthday surprise Jake, Happy Birthday my friend.”

Jake finally came to and jumped in excitement and screamed “OMG CAL, is it really you?!!! WTF I thought u were in Texas. Omg bro I’m crying COME HERE give me a hug.!!!!”

Jake ran to me and gave me the biggest hug I had ever received, a tear feel down the my cheek as I finally met in real life my best bud jake. We probably hugged for a solid 2 mins, you would think that two brothers had been reunited after years apart. After the hugging and some crying stopped, Jake couldn’t believe it. He turned to his bf and asked him if he had anything to do with it. He shocked his head yes and jake hugged and kissed his bf, he came back to me and hugged me again.

Jake~” Cal this is the best Birthday present I have ever gotten, thank you so much. I’m so happy and excited, wait how long are you staying. It’s just just till tomorrow right?”

Me~”Haha Love you jake and happy birthday, naww I’m satying for a week bud. So we can go do lots of stuff.”

Jake~” Are you serious a whole week? OMG YES, I can’t wait to show u around and have fun. What should we do first? Maybe the university I’d love to show u around or the museum, maybe the park.”

Me and Jakes bf~” slow down Jake, we can do all of those things haha.”

Cal~”so now that you got to see ur bfs big present, would u like to open mine?”

Jake~”You got me a gift too, aww Cal thanks. Let’s see it”

I tell jake to stay there and I go into the guest room and pick up the presents. All neatly wrapped in a box. I head back out and hand it to Jake.

Cal~”here you go bud hope you like it.”

Jake sits down on the couch and opens the wrapping, he gets a knife and cuts the box open. The box opens and jake takes out a bottle wrapped in tissue paper. He tears the tissue paper off and smiles. Then looks up at me.

Cal~”I know it’s not much bud, but I promised to give that to you when I visited u for the first time. Do u like it?”

The gift was a Roger Staubach Dr. Pepper two liter bottle, I promised Jake one day while we were talking. That I would personally deliver that bottle to him, most people would think it wasnt worth anything. For me and Jake tho it represented our friendship, he hated the Dallas Cowboys but he was a sports fan and it came from me. He smiled at me and said,

Jake~”I cant believe you remembered to bring it Cal, thanks this means so much to me. Every time I look at it, I will remember this day and how u made me feel. This to me is better then any expensive gift because this comes from you and it means a lot to you.”

The bottle wasn’t worth but 15 bucks, I had picked it up and some garage sale. The worth was that it was a gift to my dear friend Jake. That’s what made it priceless in his eyes. He put it one the table and stood up and went over to me. He hugged me again and said thank you for everything, your my best friend. Meeting jake for the first time was the best day so far of my life. After his gift, he gave me a beer and we sat down to watch an old Syracuse game that was probably ten years old. We laughed and talked me Jake and his bf, I had a great night. We talked about the future and the past. The present and random stuff, I wouldn’t trade that for anything. The day ended and we all went to sleep, the following day Jakes bf made me and Jake a birthday breakfast and we discussed what we would do today. Jake was really excited to show me his campus.

So after we ate we all got ready and went out, he showed me around his campus. It was beautiful and then we went out to a pizza place cuz i wanted to try some NY pizza. It was a the best pizza ever haha, the next day and following rest of the week was so much fun. We went to see a movie, a museum and we even drove four hours so I could see the 9/11 memorial and the Statue of Liberty. The vacation I decided to take was the best trip of my life and I loved every minute of it. Jake and his bf were sad on the final morning before I had to leave. The end turned out like the beginning, lots of hugs and a little crying. I was saddened to go home but I told them I would be back as soon as I could, and told jake and his bf to surprise me in Texas when they could. With that we said goodbye and I left home for Texas. I will never forget meeting my best friend Jake, and having an awesome week. Now that I met him, I felt closer then ever to him. He was like my brother I never knew I had, you wonder how someone u meet online can make a huge impact on ur life and then when u meet them. They turn out to make and even bigger impact on ur life.

Right when I got on my plane jake went out to get the mail. It was a birthday card and he opened it, happy birthday jake. Hope you loved ur gift and I know I’m writing this in advance but I love you bud and I’m so happy I got to meet u. See you soon bud!!!

That’s where the story ends everyone, HAPPY BIRTHDAY JAKE. I love you so much, u mean so much to me and hopefully one day that’s how us meeting will go. @texanstrongjake

[wheredidhiseyebrowsgo]

are there any fanfics with one of them being famous and the other one isn’t? preferably sterek or steter but anything is fine ☺️☺️

Got a bit of both for you!  -Emmy

Until I Stayed Away Too Long by  melofttroll

(14,847 / Explicit / Complete)  *sterek, human au, writer!derek, teacher!stiles, single dad!stiles, famous!derek

NY Times bestseller Derek Hale hates a lot of things about being a modern author. Like being recognized, like needing a social media presence, like not being able to buy his own boxed spaghetti noodles without being asked for a selfie. Facing writer's block, he escapes to his old hometown of Beacon Hills, at his sister's insistence, for some reprieve and hopefully motivation. It's there his attention is captured by a gangly, socially awkward teacher, and the tiny little toddler at his side who know him only as that one basketball player who fled town at fifteen after his girlfriend burnt his house down.

You’ve Got Me on Pins and Needles by  jadore_hale

(17,611 / Teen / Complete)  *sterek, tailor!derek, famous!stiles, actor!stiles

“At any rate, I’m not here to steal from you. One of the biggest potentially most important moments in my life is coming up and I find myself in need of a custom tux.”

“A tuxedo?” Derek halted, then tried not to laugh as he gave the kid a good look up and down. “Biggest potentially most important moment of your life?”

Derek picked up the broom and started sweeping, shaking his head. “If you need something for your little costume party, kid, rent something from party city.”

✄✄✄✄✄

Stiles Stilinski needs THE perfect suit and Derek Hale is just the tailor to make it for him. Only Derek doesn’t exactly know that Stiles is kind of a famous movie star…

The Parlor by  featherflairs

(19,924 / Explicit / Complete)  *sterek, human au, famous!stiles, actor!stiles, sex worker!derek

“-reported that Stiles Stilinski and Heather Bellamy are officially engaged!”

Derek froze, his beer inches from his lips.

“Did you see that rock on her finger today when she came out of brunch with Emma Stone?”

He could only watch the TV in misery, because just hours ago the very same Stiles Stilinski had been under him, whining and begging for Derek to fuck him within an inch of his life. Derek knew his contract with Stilinski wasn’t going to be a forever deal, he just didn’t think it would happen this soon.

Celebrity Crush by  rarepairenabler, softywolf

(30,307 / Explicit / Complete)  *sterek, famous!derek, actor!derek, writer!stiles

Stiles wasn’t expecting to meet his favourite actor when Scott helped him land an internship on the set of Jackson’s new film, and he certainly wasn’t expecting Derek to fall in love with him. Not that Stiles was complaining.

Driving You (Wild) by  veterization

(44,344 / Explicit / Complete)  *steter, stiles/parrish, famous!stiles, actor!stiles, chauffeur!peter

In which Peter drives celebrities around, and up-and-coming actor Stiles Stilinski is his new client.

Game On by  Kaname

(50,225 / Mature / Complete)  *sterek, human au, sports au, famous!derek

Sometimes, Stiles whispers sweet nothings to his laptop and asks the gaming gods to bless him with quick fingers and an indestructible bladder. For gaming. Obviously.

What he didn’t ask for was a bitchy new guild-mate with a God complex and a famous next-door neighbor who plays footie and throws house parties every time Stiles is trying to sleep.

Or; The one where Stiles is a famous web denizen, and Derek is just plain famous.

Dirty Little Secret by  isthatbloodonhisshirt (wasterella)

(91,001 / Explicit / Complete)  *sterek, famous!derek, closeted!derek, secret relationship, human au

“Holy shit, this is a date!” he blurted out, turning back to Derek wide-eyed. “This is a date! You intended for this to be a date, this was supposed to be a date!” He figured if he said it enough times, maybe he would believe it, but so far, no dice.

Derek was scowling again—seriously, did he want wrinkles?—but he just reached into one of the bags and pulled out a burger, checking what was written on the foil in sharpie before handing it over to Stiles.

“Of course it’s a date, what did you think this was?”

The Awkward and Sometimes Painful Life of Genim Hale by  BlueRunawayMoon

(114,464 / Explicit / Complete)  *sterek, famous!stiles, writer!stiles

Stiles is a writer of gay erotica whose work, according to his Editor (one miss Lydia Martin) has gotten dull and boring. Lydia suggest's that Stiles try to LIVE a little, gain some new juicy experiences that he can write about and bring the heat up again. Only problem is Stiles is a bit on the dorky side and not good with 'living a little'. After a whole slew of embarrassing situations brought on by his best(sometimes!) friend Scott, he's given some wise advice and decides to take a tropical paradise vacation. All's going good and well, and he's got a major crush on his super hot tour guide Danny. Yet it seem's like he can't stop bumping into Derek, who, as annoying and brooding as he seem's, also makes it quite clear he WANTS Stiles. As in...wants wants. With the two being brought together almost by fate, Stiles discover's that Derek is more than he seems....WAY more.

[god-save-the-keen]

Love working with you, Mr. Raines

Chapter 1

Summary: In this AU Adrian it's a simple human that hired a woman called Amy Brushnell. Their life twisting together in a way they never thought could happen.

Pairing: Adrian Raines x MC (Amy Brushnell)

Words: 1.102

Warning: in this chapter, none.

Note: First thing! This is the first official chapter of what I posted a while ago as "Office secrets" and now I changed it name to this one. And second thing! This is my first serie ever! So be patient with me during the process lol But also be completely honest about what do you think! Also let me know if you want to be add or remove from the tag lists!

Adrian Raines x mc tag list:

@adrianrainesworld @alesana45 @choicesfannatalie @itscassandraleig-blog @mattrodriguezmylife @bigmemesplz @perriewinklenerdie @x-kyne-x @livingpurpose

Permanent tag list:

@gardeningourmet @client-327 @desiree-0816 @dawn-1994 @violinet @darley1101 @blackcatkita @flyawayboo @drakewalker04

LWWYMR tag list:

@janethejelly678 @bbchoices @amycooperraines

Amy Bushnell was a normal 24 year old woman who worked from 9 to 5 in a corporation as the CEO's assistant. She lived with her roommate and now friend Lily in a small apartment in New York Freaking City, her dream since she was in highschool. Everything was great and perfect, her past hadn't followed her from her hometown, her work was awesome and her new friends made her feel loved, a new sensation in her life. There was only one small, tiny problem. Adrian Raines. He was the kind of man she thought only existed as a fictional character, the kind of man she thought she would never meet and he was her boss. And she was falling for him.

She had been working for him four months when she started seeing him not just as her superior but as the man beneath the CEO. She was at her desk, distracted, rereading an email for the third time without comprehending a single word, remembering when her phone rang earlier. She knew she hadn't answered, she knew how things used to work and, regardless after a moment's hesitation, she went to the hallway and took the phone call. She had promised herself that she would stop exposing herself like this, why was she so weak? She put her head on her hands, heavily sighing as a couple of tears fell from her eyes and landed on the desk. She tried to take a few deep breaths and calm herself, Nicole, the VP, already disliked her, god knows what could happen if she found her crying in the office.

A hand took her shoulder and she froze, scared. However, even if the hand was strong, the touch was gentle and she lifted her gaze slowly, only to find a pair of blue eyes watching her with a little concern. Only four months in her new job and she already was screwing things up with her boss. Classic Amy. She quickly dried her tears, feeling her cheeks hot with embarrassment, as he continued watching her, his gesture serious but his eyes warm and almost sweet.

"I'm so sorry Mr. Raines, I--"

"Please, call me Adrian." She liked that and a tiny almost imperceptible smile blossomed on her lips. "Are you okay?"

"Yeah, yeah! I'm f-fine!" Why was her voice this pitched? She needed to be on her A game, no making him sorry for her or worse, think it was a bad idea to hire her.

"You were crying." His voice calm, without angry signs in it. "Something wrong?"

"It's nothing, really… I shouldn't bother you with this kind of thing."

"Amy" This was the first time he called her by her first name and a warmth that had nothing to do with her crying, filled her chest and made her cheeks even more red. "Come to my office, please."

She stood up, her palms sweaty as he led her to his office, closing the door behind them.

"Would you like a cup of coffee? Or tea maybe?" This wasn't the first time they were alone in his office, she worked directly with him but something in the air felt different this time.

"Uh, a cup of coffee is fine" He took two cups and went to a corner of the office were a luxury coffee machine was set up.

"Please, sit." He pointed to the couch and she obeyed, he handed her the cup and she sipped it, tasting the most amazing coffee in her life. "Normally, I like to know the people who work with me, especially this close. I'm truly sorry I haven't done it with you until now."

"Oh! It's okay, Mr. Rai-- Adrian." He smiled at her and she found herself staring at his smile. She took another sip of her coffee tearing her gaze away from him.

"Are you satisfied working here?" His tone was friendly even if his office and obviously expensive, tailored suit made him intimidating.

"I really do" She genuinely smiled for the first time in what seemed like hours. "Your company is doing so much good and I'm so happy to be part of it."

"I'm glad." His eyes looked inside hers intensely, like he was trying to see beyond her surface. "Is it okay with you if I ask you a few more personal questions?"

"Uh, sure" She felt her hands getting sweaty again and carefully put the cup on the table between them. Something on her face probably showed her fear or nervousness because he smiled again.

"Don't worry, it won't be that personal." His smooth voice eased her nerves. "How do you like NY? Your resume says you are from Oro Valley."

"Yeah, it's a small town in Arizona. To be honest, I love NY, it was hard at first, of course, but I wouldn't change it for anything. This city has a magic of it's own. My favorite place in the world, at least for now"

"It's my favorite city as well." He said with sincerity in his voice. She didn't know why but there was something about him that made her feel like she could trust him, that made her feel safe, a feeling she wasn't used to.

They talked for a little more, he asked the basics about her, where she was living, if she missed home, how long she had been in NY before she started working with him, his gaze never leaving her eyes, when he looked at her above the edge of the cup her heart jumped inside her chest. At the end of the meeting, he led her towards the door, but before fully opening the door, he stopped her by putting a warm hand on her back.

"Amy, I don't know why you were crying earlier and I have the feeling that you don't want to share that but please know, my door is always open if I can help you with anything."

"You say that to all your employees?" She questioned smiling but, after a moment of realizing what she said, her cheeks flushed red and her eyes widened a bit. She didn't know why she asked him that, was she flirting with him? "I mean--"

"No, I don't." His lips quirked into a smile. "See you tomorrow, Amy." His eyes intense on hers.

"Good night, Adrian." She left the office and headed to her desk, as she picked up her things and headed home, she still felt the pressure of his hand on her back, the blue of his eyes on hers and his beautiful smile carved on her mind.

❣️

[doodles-arts]

Head-cannon: The turtles with a bender s/o

Word count: 6048

Description: This is a headcanon on how the turtles act with a s/o that bends an element, like water, earth, air and fire. Everything changed when the fire nation attacked. There is also a bonus! each of the head canons have a short imagine

pairings: donatellox reader, leonardo x reader, michaelangelo x reader, raphael x reader

Raphael:

-My bad boy here would be smitten over you the second he sees you.

-oh shit? Who’s that’s badass?? You b!!!

-he loves how easy water bending is for you. He also loves the way that when he gets hurt you're the first person at his side, healing him with your special ability

-Your So! Strong. Controlling water and bending takes patience, peace and power. And he’s certain that you have all three

-he’s so beta for you O m g 

-he loves your hair!!! The way is moves when you bend. Almost like water

-Your calves and biceps are rock hard. He so vexed over them

-”watch your tongue big red!” You say that whenever he gets sassy with you

-Big red? SUch a turn of for him

-Your both so flirty all the time

-You sneak kisses and touch as often as possible

-“oh please, choke me,'' he says this to Leo- testing his older brother- you pipe in before leo can say anything “I volunteer.” everyone is shook

-raph listens to no one, but you~

-Your so strong, and he can tell because one day a flood breaks through the lair and you tried to hold it all off. There was SO much water, you were grunting in pain as you held it all off to help Donnie as he fixes a pipe that burst

~

You held the water from pouring through the broken pipe. The water kept building, getting heavier and heavier. You felt when the water was about to burst, ready to hold it off even before it did. Now? You weren’t so sure.

Raph was amazed at how you could hold the water so perfectly it was still; unmoving. “Amazing”, he mumbled. You were holding the water for a good hour, and it was straining on you. After another 20 minutes and you fall to your knees, almost yelling in pain. 

”Donnie…. What's taking so long?”

 Everyone froze as you fell to your knees. The cloud of water above you rippling. Your arms were trembling as you held up all of the water in the air. The boys checked in on you now and again after you fell. Ralph didn't move from beside you, keeping you company as an excuse to fret over you. Another 10 minutes and your arms were shaking, your back cracking under pressure. You were yelling in anguish, the weight too heavy for you. Two hands pushed your back forward, ”I’ve got you, tiger, take a break”. 

You smiled, biting your lip at his gruff voice. ”oh, I think I like that idea!” you said seductively, Raph found this funny and smirked. Though when you let go of all the weight from your back and put them on to his hands, he knew you had to be superhuman. You weighed as much as his weights, good God! He couldn't imagine what type of weight you were holding on your arms. His palms pushed against the part of your back below your shoulders with his hands uncomfortably upside down.

After 30 minutes you could feel Raphael hands trembling, the uncomfortable position as he held the weight of the water was new to him, he couldn't hold on to it well. You felt really bad for him having to help you, but thankfully Donnie finally finished fixing the pipe. You tried to stand but felt your legs falter, ”let me help you up” his warm breath on your neck was driving you crazy! 

You sent the water away slowly out of the lair, with Raphael’s help, and into the sewers. ”jeez tiger, you deserve more credit!” he said placing a hand on your waist and rubbed it as you held the water back from flowing through the pipes until Donnie could fix it permanently. ”I think I might be able to forgive you,” you mumbled with a smirk. 

~

-You got him to appreciate you in a few more way after that

-he helped you ”stretch” out the knots out...

Leonardo: 

-This calm leader is amazed at your strength

-fire bending takes a clear mind with zero emotion

-and gosh, are you emotionless!

-at first he finds it mysterious, than annoying because you never really paid him any attention, but after getting to know you through Donatello he sorta likes it.

-finding your straightforward and cool headed personality attractive

-Your fire bending is almost as hot as you are

- ha ha, get it?

- you always light things on fire whenever Leo touches you

-The perfect heater. Mickey cuddles you all the time during winter

-leo h a t e s it

-Your hands get super hot and red like an electric stove whoever you get mad 

-and your cheeks, when your flustered!!

-Leo finds out that he sucks at flirting with you

-You always light the candles when you’re both meditating

-Oh did I mention, you love tea? And meditating, reading? 

-Your both a match made in heaven

-he tries to flirt and drop hints 

-Your oblivious, like not a clue

-he finally tells you he likes you and your like, “okay cool, I like you too leo”

- at first he like, what? 

-You still don't get though

-You still didn’t know that he liked LIKED you. 

-When he further explains it, your shook

~

He sat quietly, waiting for your response after he had just blurted it out in the kitchen to you. Your eyes focused on your book. You slowly lifted your head with a raised eyebrow, looking back down at your book as you responded. “Okay Leo, I like you too.” His eyes widened and grinned like a maniac! 

That was until he noticed your eyes were glued back to your book nonchalantly. He might not have ever had a girlfriend before but he knew that no confession ever ended that way. He knew not to expect, you, of all people, to jump up and kiss him. But he knew that just because you tried to be emotionless didn’t mean you didn’t have any. He knew that your emotions were way to closely connected to your bending. 

Clearing his throat to catch your attention once more, it didn’t work. He reached over and gently put a hand on the top of your book. Covering the page you were reading from. “Hey, I’m not sure you heard me, I like you. Like more than a friend, I like the way you smirk when you're smiling and when your nose wrinkles up when your angry”, he got up and walked around the table, your cheeks heating up in embarrassment. “I really do like you, I’ve been wanting to ask, would you be my girlfriend?” Your eyes were wide and the spring in your stomach started to stretch. You tried to keep the fire in check, but this was all new and Leo leaning forward wasn’t making it any easier. 

“Yes,” you wanted to be his girlfriend, but you just couldn’t meet his eyes. 

Leo wasn’t going to let this moment pass, you never got this flustered, this was his only chance. He leaned in closer to your face and planted a soft kiss on your cheek, but last minute something stung his lips. “YeAuOo!” You had been so surprised that your cheeks had gotten as hot as a stove. “MAh Lipzz” he cried out trying to stop the burning stinging. 

Oh no!

~

-He forgives you though, because the way you heat up your lips when you kiss him is addicting. 

-he loves when you kiss his neck, it feels like a sin. 

-perfect cuddle buddy in the winter. Mikey lost his privilege

Michaelangelo: 

-earth bending takes confidence and lots of emotion, unlike fire

-Your strong, like stronger than normal humans and other benders

-mikey loves your shoulders

-You actually picked him up once

-You like to pretend their are earthquakes to prank him

-he’s s h o o k every time

-he likes when you train, your Amazing

-You make earth roller coasters for him

-for a moment, NY times really believed it to be aliens, all the earth craters and roads that were paved as you bent a track

-once he convinced you to make crop circles in central park

-The news Lost its mind

-Your both a dangerous mix

-like if you mix a mentos and soda in a closed bottle and opened it unexpectedly

-You guys are the couple that don’t understand that PDA can be alil uncomfortable to watch

-This is because of Mikey though, he’s the clingy type

-sometimes your too harsh on others and super cold, but Mikey melts your heart

-Your honestly like a rabid dog, and mikey is your trainer

-he loves how all of your ex’s want you back, but you don’t even bat an eye towards them

-”none of them know how to make me laugh”, “he didn’t know how to calm me down”, “none of them knew how to please me, Like you~”

-oh?? He takes the hint

-he’s loud, and you like it

-a lot of the times your orange underwear is ripped by the end of the day…

-You and Raph are best friends 

-Mikey is low key jealous

-one day, your training and he loses it

-You snap at him, than cuddle him because he cries. You coo him back to his happy and goofy self

-You’re never this soft with anyone

-He loves your special attention though

~

Your sparring against Raph, trash talking each other in the  new dojo, an extra space Mikey begged donatello to clear for you, so you could practice your earth bending. Usually your both very loud, yelling as Raph blocks and you bend. The new dojo is big and round with all solid earth underneath. It’s in a hole in the ground outside of the lair, but there’s a pipes that connects the two spaces and Mikey can hear everything from his spot on the couch playing video games. At first he didn’t mind you hanging with Raph, he didn’t care if you beat his butt in a few spars, but then you started leaving him behind to spar with the red cladded giant. And as much as he was a very chill dude, it hurts to feel like second best and forgotten like some toy. He tried to contain his anger and focus on his game. But your voice was intoxicating, your war cries raised goosebumps on his scaly skin. How could he not feel the anger boil and top over as he watched you rough house with Raph on your way back into the lair and laugh. You laughed. Something you rarely did without him. It’s why no one really liked you, it's why he loved your smile so much. Cause you only laughed at his jokes. You only ever smiled at him, it made your smile so much more special. He slammed his controller off and stomped off into his room, angirly flopping on his bed before pulling out the Dsi you got him for his birthday and playing. 

Raph gave you the okay to run after him, he never got angry, never got jealous. Oh god, did you mess up again? You always had ex’s leave because you were overconfident and way too sure of yourself. You never understood the whole, not being buddy buddy with other guys. You were stuck up. And as much as you knew this, none of your ex’s were really any fun, but not Mikey, he was perfect. And you were afraid he’s felt the same way, that he’d want to leave. You tried to shake the feeling, he was allowed to be jealous, at least that’s what you hoped it was.

Knocking gently before opening the door, unsure of how to approach an angry Mikey, afraid you’d screw up like you always did. You never knew how to fix arguments or disagreements with your past lovers, you always made it worse. “Hey winky dink” you whispered as you used his nickname, trying to be as sweet as you could. He angrily turned away from you,his shell facing you as he played on the Dsi. You resisted the urge to roll your eyes, you knew he was just reacting, and he was allowed to react. You placed a hand on his shell, “baby if you wanna talk about something, I'm all ears. What’s wrong?” You thought that was nice, though your tone was low and sweet… it sounded a little condescending. He shimmed away from your touch. “No” he grumbled, and you were taken aback. Mikey never acted this way! It was out of character for him. You were never good at being empathetic and this was all new to you.

And he knew he was pushing his luck, but he never felt jealousy quite like this before, not knowing how to control himself, he was riding out his anger. But he didn’t really want you to leave. And you didn’t have the heart to leave either. But you also weren’t going to put up with this shit! “Listen here you overgrown yoshi, i’m trying to share a heart to heart with you because I'm afraid of losing you. If you can’t grow up and talk to me, then why the hell make a scene? You should already know I don’t like your brother you dope!” Though you never really said anything insulting except the yoshi part and name calling, your tone was rough. Tough as rock and Mikey didn’t like confrontation with you. He loved you way too much to be yelled at and was extremely sensitive with you. 

 He whirled around, baby blue eyes wide as saucers. His bottom lip jutted out and started trembling, aw man, your heart started panicking. ‘Here it comes’...

His eyes started to water up, and soon you couldn’t even see his beautiful baby blue eyes under his thick tears. He sobbed, “yoshi? B-BUt he’s FAT. Are you s-saying i’m FAt? Is that w-why you train with R-raph- Cause? Is i-it?” He started mumbling and sobbing nonsense and your chest felt like someone punched their way into your heart and pulled it out. You felt terrible. Like a monster. “No, no, no baby. That’s not it at all.” you cooed as you crawled further on his bed and towards him. Pulling him to your chest and putting his thighs on your lap*. Rocking him slowly as you cood to him how much you loved him and how he was the only one for you. There could be no other in your heart but him. It was only until you started asking him how much he thought you loved him while pulling his face to look at you with his chin. Nuzzling his snout with your nose until he laughed. “There's my laughy-Mikey~” He hid his face in your neck until he felt his cheeks cool down. 

You trailed kisses down the side of his face, “I love you Mikey.” He churred in response. 

“For the record, yoshi has nothing on me.”

~

-He loves the way you victory dance and taunt him when you win mario kart

-Your not even good but he lets you win once in while 

-You give the best b******

*mikey can be very soft when he cries. Soft boi 100%

Donatello

-computers = hot air

-hot air= heat

-turtle + heat = snappy turtle or sweaty turtle

-he didn’t like you at first

-Your really positive… wayyy too optimistic for his realistic expectations

-one day in the summer Mikey makes a prank with water balloons and when he throws at Donatello, almost wetting his very computers, you blow it away before he can damage the electronics

-after that, he learns to respect you

- a few days later Donatello comments on how hot it is and you blow a cold breeze in to his lab

-he doesn’t realize it until he sees his brothers sweating their asses off in the living room and his room is super cool. And his room is usually the hottest because of all the hot software

-Your sleeping on the edge of the couch, head on the armrest with a hand posed towards his room

-he smiles sweetly, realizing how sweet you actually are. Your not extremely optimistic, your kind and empathetic. 

-he works the nerve to invite you to his lab for more cool breezes in exchange to help you with your homework. You agreed.

-as you work, he sees how hard you try, your a fast learner

-he likes watching you work and doze off

-he starts to notice how beautiful you are

-You stare at him Alot

-why?

-Best free air conditioning

-everyone fights over you in the summer, Donnie usually wins

-Your just so good at your bending that it isn’t even tiring to bend cold air around the room

-Your really level headed, but your always happy

-You always make him feel better 

-You’re really tiny

-like is it normal? He loves how those buns look on your head

-The way your baby hairs move cutely around whenever you air bend

-oh shit.

-he’s head over heels now. bam.game over

-he makes you a pinwheel that plays 3D images whenever you air bend wind in to it

-You Love it, you jump into his arms and give him a huge hug 

-he Confucius 

-hugs back, and loves the way your hair smells, wishes he could hug you more

-one day you tell him how much you like his eyes and his mind is blown

-You find this funny

~

You’re packing your things away to go home and as you pass Donatello and bid him goodbye you remember something that had been on your mind lately. You turned around sharply and stood still for a second. If you did it, would he return the thought? Would you overstep a boundary? Well, there was only one way to find out!

Walking back to Donnie’s lab with a huge grin and a pep in your step, walking back into the lab and walking towards his computer chair you took a deep breath feeling the air welcome you and feel your confidence build a little more. “Mikey, no I can’t help-” cutting him off by grabbing the sides of the computer swivel chair and turning him around to face you. You smile and he straightens his glasses, he gulps in confusion when you lean in to his face. Small enough that you don’t really lean down even if he is sitting, he finds that sexy/ adorable. You tilt your head and stared harder, leaning in closer and he leans back into his chair, cheeks on fire. You reached forward and pulled his glasses upwards with a gentle smile, “uhhh-” “-You really do have beautiful eyes!” He pulled back fully in confusion hitting his head on his swivel chair from pulling back so strongly. His glasses fell on his snout and slid down, you giggled before pushing them upwards before leaning to his left cheek and giving his hot cheek and blow of cool air and a quick kiss. 

“See ya donn-” there was a tug on your wrist as your turned around. Feeling giddy you turned back around and face the pretty purple turtle. His mouth opened and closed in a faint attempt to gather himself and say something, he was making a bigger fool of himself, damnit. “I think I can help” you uttered sweetly while lifting his chin and leaning back down. Your lips were soft. God he could get used to this. Your like cold water, cooling and you smelt like pinewood and mint, he liked it very much.

Bonus?????

Splinter

-he never thought you’d accept him, but you weren’t exactly normal either

-living in a swap with no one other than the few like you

-splinter seemed normal

-You lived with other vine benders and water benders in your swap, but the expanding cities called for your people to accept the modern world. 

-The sewers were close to home and were the only spot where you could bend and learn new things like plant bending, without being seen

-You first met him when he was around looking for supplies and food for himself and the boys. 

-once you gained his trust you met the baby turtles and you had fallen in love 

-being an older woman from different world, these baby boys were a step in the right direction; for a family

-You offered to help him raise them

-reluctant at first but soon won over, splinter agreed

-You cooked and worked for the boys while splinter cleaned and tuckered the boys out with ninjutsu

-the first time they called you mom you cried

-You made flower crowns for Raph as a child

-Leo helped you farm, it wasn’t easy in the sewers but you both managed

-Donatello soon helped and you couldn’t have been prouder of your boys. Creating a mechanism of mirrors to help the planting vegetables grows

-You always grew herbs with your bending for splinters tea, he was always grateful

-You taught the boys as much as you can about the outside world, but the truth was, you were still learning as well

-Leo was always curious about your old life in the swamp with your old family

-You loved telling them stories with splinter, one told from your own families

-Your mom look is very frightening

-The boys love you so much, your so kind and caring

-they don’t like to pick favorites, but… mom has never sent us to the hashi, chores are a lot better than the hashi

-You spoil them, you really do

-splinter tells you a l l the time

-they love when you play with them, their so used to seeing you leave for work and coming back very late that they don’t get to play with you much

-You grow older in to your mid 40’s and splinters grows concerned with your work schedule

-it wasn’t until you began coming home and passing out the second you sat down that he pleaded you take a break

-he knew it wasn’t easy to work more than 8 hours and then come home to cook and leave again fro more work

-You refused, the boys needed you to work, they were growing and deserved everything they asked for and needed new clothes and shoes as they grew older and bigger.

-splinter tried to reason with you, and again you refused. Growing tired of his persistence you both argued over it. 

-The boys were very frightened and peeked through the dojo slide doors, and you looked back splinter before you started laughing once you noticed them.

-”oh, please forgive me splinter, it’s just were fighting like an old married couple”

-he joins in and you take his advice to take a vacation once the boys walk in for a family hug

-more time home meant more family time!

-The boys won't let you do anything the first two days 

-”you need water? I've got it!” “you need your slippers? Where are they?” “dinner’s on us!” “I've run you a bath mom!”

-it isn’t until the end of the second day that the boys are arguing and you over hear that you finally understand

-they think you work so much because your tired of them? 

-You barge in and remind them how much you love them, FAMILY HUG

-splinter is very helpful when you have a lot of stress, massages, teas, and bath remedies

-The boys are so annoying as they get older

-they mother hen you SO much, why? Because your older and frail because of all those years working for them

-You have a bad knee and really bad wrists that get stuck and hurt if you do too much

-even though your old you, still tend to an old garden and make Raph secret flower crowns every once and awhile

-You make Donnie tea that sends him sleeping in seconds, splinter is really amazed at how you still pull it off

-Mikey stays up watching the kids cartoon channel with you, you like them because they're cute and heartwarming

-You scrapbook

-The boys love you so much, you cry at EVERY birthday

-Your a cool mom in their teen years

-You worked your butt off to save money and retire. It’s totally worth it

-You love being their for them when their teenage emotions get the better of them

-The night they escape to go topside, you catch them leaving but instead of busting them you distract splinter, splinter is pleased

-splinter is Not pleased once their back

-You don’t tattle tale either!

 ~

“Where are you boys going?” you croaked in your southern accent, they froze. Knowing they had woke you up. They froze, fearing the worst from you and then the hashi, you and dad made a sick tag team. “If your going to go, what are you waiting for? Make sure to stay quiet, New York never sleeps.” They were ecstatic, each lifting you around and hugging, you shushed them as they rough housed and cheered about their amazing mother. 

“Shushhhhh, Leave, leave! I’ll take care of your father. Now have fun and stay safe. Look after each other.” They smiled at each other before dashing out of the lair. You smile and walk over to the splinters room, finding him reading the new book you got him. Reaching forward to grab his book, your plan on distracting him already in tow. You knew his soft spots like the back of your hand

**

They get caught on their way back into the lair, because they were being loud as usual and Splinter heard them. No longer having his undivided attention and distraction. You rolled your eyes at your boys, could they have been any more obvious? He lined them up while you fiddled with the metal ring on your hand, feeling very bad for your boys. They looked at you awaiting for your help, gosh, you really did spoil them! You couldn’t help them now!

“Where were you? Did your mother assist you to go topside?” you gasped dramatically before grabbing one of his ears and twisting it painfully. The boys snickered as splinter apologized profusely and turned back to the boy, that got them quiet fast. “Next time think before you accuse me of something so foolish.” he rubbed his ear, “yes, yes. To the hashi I suppose if you won’t confess,” your heart clenched painfully when you saw them in there but stink eyed them to ensure your name wouldn’t be named once they spilled.

~

“Honey, listen-” “NO, ma! I’m tired of being the bad guy, tired of dad treating us like kids when we’ve saved the world. Tired of being treated like the one with no control. I’m tired of Leo being the favorite…” you listened, listened to him rant. Because it was important he trusted you and knew you respected all of his emotions. Important that he learned that all of his emotions were valid.

 You patted the spot on the bed next to you and held your hot headed son against your own head. “I love you Raphael, I have no favorites, because if I lost any of you my heart would never heal. Leo is not our favorite, and if you don’t believe me, who makes you your flower crowns? Who’s the one who makes you the extra pancakes just because you ask? Me. I love you all, I try my best to show it, my son, my beautiful son. You have so much to give the human world don’t let your anger cloud that.” You pet his head as he cried and made him the flower crown you always made him on times like these. 

~

“No, no, you have training tomorrow morning sweetie, off to bed!” He gave you his famous puppy pout. And you caved, knowing splinter would never let you live this down, your son always won you over. It was those baby blue eyes. “30 more minutes and its off to bed!” He grinned so big your own jaw hurt. “Okay mommy! Love you!” you chuckled, your youngest still called you mommy and you LOVed it, it reminded you of when they were little. You went to the bathroom, and stepped in to your bed, as quietly as possible…

“Michelangelo gave you the pout again didn’t he?” You could have face palmed right there, he chuckled and turned around and hugged you, “it is alright my lotus, you will overcome it soon enough.” You sighed playfully. After awhile you woke up to a raspy throat, Your husband asked why you were leaving, replying you asked if he’d like some water as well. He asked for a cup and walking out of your room you saw you youngest son passed out on the couch with the remote in hand. You smiled, grabbing a comforter to drape over him and tucking him in and put the remote away. Leaning down to kiss his forehead, “I love you too, Michelangelo”

~

“Donatello baby, it's awfully late, are you working on something important?” “extremely mother!” There was nothing better than being called mother in your late years. Note the sarcasm. It made you feel older, but you knew it was out of respect. “Hmmm, is it saving the world from terror, important?” He paused before peeking his head out of his work to look at you, “about 5 notches less important, mother.” You nodded slowly, “baby, you have training tomorrow, 30 more minutes.” He grinned and your heart melted, “thanks mother!”

You warmed a ketted and crushed up some special herbs, fixing them in and when the tea was ready you added mint and lavender with plenty of honey after adding your special herbs, with a peanut butter sandwich. A new trick you came up with and splinter was well aware of it. Watching by, could you trick the boy this time? “Baby, Are you hungry? I made you a sandwich” he gladly took it with a big smile and a very sweet ‘thank you’. “Do you want something to drink, baby?” you asked coyly, he took another bite and nodded gratefully, Leaning over to splinter as you both walked back over to the kitchen, “got ‘em!” Bringing the already made cup over to your little genius. 

“There was no milk, but I made me and your father some tea, so I thought this would be better anyway~”, he took a swing and thanked you again. You walked over to the seat where Splinter waited for you on the couch with your own tea cup of peppermint tea. Reaching out your hand for a high-five your husband gave you one. “You never cease to amaze me, my darling.” Your son was asleep in the next 10 minutes, your husband helped him to bed and off to dream land and he went with a kiss to his forehead as you tucked him in.

~

He groaned once more, he couldn’t focus on his meditation. “Alright, even i’m tense. What’s wrong, my son?” He jumped in his seat on the dojo floor. Usually it was splinter who helped him out of this funk, but mamma bear had come to the rescue today. He sighed one more time as helped you sit on the mat because of your bad knees and laid his head on your lap. You massaged his temples, and almost instantly he started feeling better. “Recently I've been thinking I'm not fit to be leader. This is supposed to be easy, but it isn’t. It’s supposed to be, like, second nature but it’s not.” You thought for a moment on how to reply while stroking your son’s head and shoulder. 

“I’m not like you father, wisdom has never come easy to me. But I do have experience, leadership isn’t natural it’s a choice. You have to fail to learn as a leader because your not following and your not learning. Your teaching and I'm aware it can be quite a hassle at times, but your father chose you for a reason. Perhaps you don’t believe it, but he did. And if there's one thing that man is good at, it’s at choosing the right choices.” He smiled at his mother's words meant to tease is father, at the end. “Your right-” “damn straight I am” you mumbled and chuckled. He leaned up and gave you a kiss on the cheek before returning to his meditation in perfect peace now. His mind remembering what you had said, he trusted you and took great care with your words. You leaned over and grabbed an arm while placing a kiss on his cheek, “you’ve got this, blue”, having full fate in your eldest son. 

~

With your birthday coming up the boys in your home were awfully quiet at times. For a whole week there were no fights, zero trips to the hashi, and no boys staying up late. Thankfully you had clean the lair up before your birthday week and you had the whole week to relax. And that’s exactly what you did. Too old to be running after the boys, your first birthday in retirement. “This is livin~”. On your birthday your husband awoke you with tickling kisses and whispers, and when you arrived to the kitchen and found breakfast all prepared. You smiled and gushed at your boys. “You boys shouldn’t have!” They all let you pick the best of everything, and instead of taking it you gave mikey the first spritz of the whipped cream, Rapheal the sweetest and biggest strawberry by bending it to grow, donatello the best pancake and leo the warm syrup first. You also poured the tea for your husband, “but mom-”, “no buts! My favorite part of breakfast is taking care of my family!” “sweet!” You giggled at michaelangelo. 

The rest of the day, the boys paid you extra attention, getting you anything you wanted and your husband ran you a special bath. Life was bliss at the moment and you were enjoying every bit of it. As you walked to the kitchen for a cup of water the boys screamed ‘surprise!’ “boys! You should know better than to scare an old lady like that!” They all laughed as they brought out the cake with two candles with a 6 and a 0. They sang you happy birthday and you were gushing the whole time. You asked donnie o take a family photo, he timed the camera and you said “whiskeyyy!” It was beautiful and the boys insisted you took one with splinter, and in the middle of the picture you swiped a finger of frosting on his nose. You laughed as the boys froze and kissed the frosting off with a smile, another flash made you laugh. The cake and family time was a blast! You all played Monopoly and you laughed the whole way through it. At the end of the night the boys prepared to leave for patrol and before they routinely they all gave you a hug.

“Happy birthday mom, thank you for always working hard for us, you always put us first”

“Happy birthday ma! Thank you for always putting up with us, no one could have asked for a better mother”

“Happy birthday mother, thank you for always making time for us and getting everything we’ve ever wanted"

“Happy birthday mommy! Your the coolest and one day i’m gonna spoil you as much as you’ve spoiled us!”

You were in tears at the end of their hugs, “get back here boys!” you said with tears in your eyes, Holding all four of them for a group hug. “I have the bet sons!”

After they left your husband played some of your favorite slow southern songs and danced with you. “Thank you darling, for all you have done for this family. If it were possible, I'm sure me and the boys would find a way of giving you the world. You have done more than be a mother to the boys, you have become their hero, lotus” he whispered into your ear as you danced and you danced as you sobbed happily. It felt so good to be validated by your family after all the years you worked so hard for. This was officially the best birthday ever. 

Remember to validate your mothers!!

[uriesmonalisa]

A trip to NY PT 2

The glowing swirls of the portal faded out of Kit s view, when he reached down to stroke Mina s hair. She leaned into his touch, smiling. Showing physical affection still struck him as slightly awkward, but he knew its importance for his young adoptive sister. 

"Its them!! Daddy, Papa look!!", shouted an extremly enthusiasted, blue-coloured boy, as he darted toward them. Mina froze in place, her hand still tightly clasped around Kits fingers. She took in the sight of Max Lightwood-Bane, all elbows and knees, vibrating with energy, showing a smile that started to mirror itself on her own face. 

Max came to an aprupt stop in front of her. "I'm Max and this is Daddy, he is the boss of all good shadowhunters!! And my papa can do magic with his hands!! He told me that your mom's a warlock too, so your parents are just like mine!" His eyes were shining as he waited for her answer. "Hello, i'm Mina. Do you want to be my friend?"

 She extended her hand shyly in his direction. Max beamed and with an unusual sense of carefulness he took Mina s hand into his. "Would you like to meet my dinosaurs? Do girls really like playing tea party all the time? My brother said so!" He paused. "We could let the dinosaurs have a teaparty." Behind him, a slim shadowhunter boy slowly started approaching. His small solemn face gave nothing away about his thoughts of the arrivers. "I'm Rafael and I'm older than both of you, so I'm the boss", he announced in a slightly spanish accent.

Kit blinked. Tessa had told him about both kids and how they had made their way into this new life and family. So this was another orphaned nephilim child, taken in by another tolerate and loving couple.

He glanced over to Magnus and Alec,who watched the scene in front of them in peaceful joy. They seemed so in Balance with each other and the world around them, like pieces of a puzzle that fitted in without even the slightest resistance. Magnus waved. 

"Hello there! Last time I saw you, a ghost let exploded dozens of windows at your home and Tessa gave birth to this gorgeous little princess! How have you been?" Alec beside him gave an encouraging smile, but seemed more interested in following the kids interaction. 

"Last time I saw you I tried to calm myself down with a heavy amount of Whiskey, but i've given up on that right after Jem told me that it was a typical Herondale behaviour", Kit replied. "I'm okay, still trying to learn how to fight demons properly and working out half of the day." 

He glanced down on himself. Muscles had taken place on his arms and legs, but he knew that he was still behind other young shadowhunters of his age. Sometimes time was the only thing that helped, time and an almost brutal amount of training hours. 

The boys had taken Mina in between them and were talking alternatly about games,  adventures and favourite foods, escorting her to a corner in the big living room where masses of toys had been piled up- action hero figures, different kinds of cars and trucks and - of course- Max beloved dinosaurs. 

"I brought my tea set", Mina murmured, rummaging in her bag. She unpacked a few delicate looking cups, plates and a mini teapot. Rafael snorted. "I told you. Girls don't like cars, dinosaurs or playing fights. Just boring teaparties." He got up and walked over to the door of another room.

"Don't worry about Rafe! He didnt mean it like that, he'll come back later to join our game", Max said reassuringly as Minas smile started to drop. "What do you think? Who should have tea with us? My tyrex fought with the triceratops this morning, maybe they shouldn't sit together. Daddy, can we have some water in the teapot for our teaparty?", he called at Alec. Alexander Lightwood-Bane, consul of the clave in exile, nodded with a warm smile, took the teapot his younger son was holding out to him and went to the kitchen. Water started to pour, and soon he came back, handing it over to Mina. 

"Is everything all right, biscuit? You look upset", he asked quietly.  "It was Rafe, Daddy! He said girls games are boring. But I like Mina s teaset! I've never played tea party before!", Max answered in a rush,  before Mina could even begin to say something. Alec s brows lifted for a second, but his face stayed calm and soft. "You don't need to worry. Rafe can be a little bit outrageous sometimes, but he'll apologize later. In the meantime- would you like to have some cookies for your party?" 

So this is Part 2 of my first ever fanfic and I hope you like it ♥️

@heloisacosta23 @purple-haired-faerie & @daisyherxndale hope you like it ♥️

[caroline18mars]

A Man On Fire - Chapter 20

“What did you just call me?” he cocked his head and squinted his eyes, did she just..? Harper felt her cheeks go bright red, busted, damn, did she just say that out loud? Oh yes she did, another fit of giggles “uhm..floppy hair, in my mind I call you 'floppy hair'” she hiccupped, oh could he just stop the ridiculously cute staring he did? “I mean, you have rather sleek hair, but then there's these wavy bits too and it makes it kind of..floppy..I don't know”. Could she be any cuter? Oh she was gonna add to the cuteness, just talk to me, whatever you say is just sexy and hilarious and cute all at the same time, but then she wasn't exactly done on the topic of his hair, “you know who your hair reminds me of sometimes? Farah Fawcett! You know, like the original Charlie's Angels and..”. Oh I know Farah Fawcett, better than you do, were you even born in that era? “Ok, enough! enough about the hair already! I'm totally done with the subject, can we just go and eat now?”. Uh-oh! Floppy hair was upset, must sober up but most of all shut the hell up, and can you just stop giggling? What are you? 15? oy! “sure yeah..of course..” she took a step back and went in search for her bag and her keys. Five minutes later, they stepped back out into the biting cold that immediately seemed to sober her up, because she remained relatively quiet as they started walking, had he been a bit too harsh? “so..pasta, right? Do you already have a place in mind? Because I know this really amazing Italian place and it's right around the corner, actually” he tried to break the silence, “lead the way” she smiled, oh thank god for that smile.

“Buona sera questa sera” the classical Italian waiter waltzed up to greet them, “Buona sera, hai encora un tavolo per due?” Harper looked at the tiny dining room that was pretty much full, “per una bella donna comme voi? sempre, se vuoi seguirmi” and followed him. Jared watched the waiter pull back her chair and make her more compliments in Italian, ok, ok, we got the picture, just leave her alone, alright? “Grazie, grazie mille” yeah go on, give him a seductive smile, why don't you? Stop being so jealous, man, it's just harmless banter..aaannnddd focus back on me, yes!. Harper looked back up at Jared, not really knowing if he was still a little upset over that floppy hair comment, was it the light in here or did his eyes have a darker colour?. “De Robiano..I should have guessed you were Italian, I thought it was French..you know ever since we started e-mailing, I was wondering what your voice would sound like, hearing someone talk can paint an entire image, but I really had no image of you at all” there was that cocking of his head again. “Does everything have to be about image? Sometimes the flow of a conversation is so much more sexier and can draw up an entire world instead of just an image, looks are fleeting, but what people say or write to each other has so much more impact, don't you think?” Harper shrugged and smiled at that waiter again who was filling up a glass of water for her, pfff. Jared waited until the waiter handed them their menus and left again..finally. “Fleeting looks? Woman, you just don't realize what a stunning beauty you are, do you?” he blurted out, did he care that he already threw all his cards on the table? god no, this felt absolutely right. “Oh..well..” the compliment was as wild as it was unexpected, it was alcohol induced probably, everybody looked better after a glass too many “ have some water, because you've had too much to drink probably..but thank you, haven't heard that one in a looong time, my love life is kinda non-existant at the moment, I've just got a weird stalker that tends to lurk on me when I'm taking a bath” she raised her waterglass at him with a roll of her eyes. “Ah..Sean..I can fire him if you want” just saying that name made his blood curdle, he so didn't want to go back to Europe, he wanted to stay right here in NY with her and forget about all the responsibilities that were gonna take him away from her for months on end. “No, please don't, Shayla hates my guts more than enough as it is, but let's not talk about her or Sean, alright?” she shook her head with a painful grimace, but her eyes lit up the second their food arrived.

Watching her eat her pasta was just mesmerizing, every time a thin string of spaghetti was sucked up between those full lips, he shuffled in his seat, those suggestive sucks followed by a little lick of her lips did things to his loin that weren't exactly appropriate in a restaurant. “You ok? Not hungry?” she licked her lips again, oh could she stop torturing him? “I am, I just...got a lot on my mind..” and not just on his mind, but also a lot going on 1 metre below his mouth. “Ah, ok, because my mother always used to say that I should never trust a man who doesn't eat” she put her fork and spoon down, what was going on in his mind to put him off his food?. “Oh, so what else did your mother warn you about? She sounds like a smart woman” he looked up at her with a grin, “smart is debatable, she's a lot of things, but smart is really the least appropriate term” bye bye appetite, change of subject, right now!. “You don't deserve to be lonely, beautiful Harper Coco, can't you make things better with your family?” he hadn't even finished when she crumbled into a million little pieces “I'm..I'm sorry, I didn't mean to..” he reached for her hand but she leaned back in her chair and shook her head, no, no, she wasn't gonna start crying, not here and definitely not in front of him. “No, it's ok, no harm done and no offense taken because I'm not lonely, anyone ever tell you that you're a real bad judge of character, Joe? By the way, is Joe a nickname?” there, change of subject done and dusted, ha!. “Uhm..no, it's..” what, what just happened? “my middle name, Joseph..Joe” ok, he was gonna play along with her little game, but he would find out the truth later, that was a fact. “BJL..then what does the B stand for and Cubbins? What? BJ? I admit I thought at first it stood for..well you know..” oh he wanted to hear her say this, “BlowJob” she whispered and then started that hilarious giggle again, oh god, he so had no resistance against this woman and her ridiculous sense of humour. “I like the way you think, but in case you've forgotten, we're in a restaurant right now, maybe later, ok?” the shock on her face was priceless “but if you really must know, Bartholomew Cubbins? Dr. Seuss? It's just a name I used at hotels..to stop the fans from finding out what hotel we were staying in”. She took a sip of her water and just couldn't take her eyes off him, he was so obnoxious..and sweet and sexy..he was just..hot, but the last thing she wanted was for him to know she knew.

That twinkle in his eyes when he talked about one of the things he adored doing, like music, was one of the most mesmerizing things about him, every story was probably laced with exaggeration but it didn't matter, he was happy and that was all that mattered. Harper rested her chin on her hand, it didn't matter if they didn't do anything else than just sit here all night, talking like they had a lifetime to catch up on..but then his phone started buzzing around on the table, his face clouded over when he saw the name on the screen and the spell was immediately broken. “Sorry, I.uhmm..will you excuse me a minute?” he asked with an uncomfortable, little smile, “sure, of course..” she nodded, but her mind was screaming no, I will not excuse you, just stay here with me, this is our bubble, ignore the call. Jared connected the call as he walked away from the table and reluctantly put it against his ear “This better be important, because if it isn't I really don't want to hear it”, Shayla pulled the phone a little further away from her ear, oh this was important, mister, so important!. “Yeah, well, it's Shannon..”, his heart froze hearing his brother's name and he knew that his visit to New York was gonna be cut short, “he and his girlfriend..they had a huge fight and trashed a hotelroom, it's frikkin mayhem down here..he even gave Sean a black eye..you and I both know he only listens to one person and that's his brother”. What?! Fuck no! No, no, no “Me? He doesn't listen to anyone” he growled at his assistant, “yes he does, and you know it, I wouldn't be calling you if it wasn't serious, I tried calling Constance but her housekeeper said she's out of town on some hiking trip with friends, and apparantly she has no cell reception”. Oh for fuck's sakes, why couldn't he get a break? “I can have the plane waiting for you in NY in the morning, your time..please..Jared?”

Harper took another sip of her wine that she ordered during his absence, for months on end she had been alone and been just fine by herself, and now that he came along and had spent a few hours together, she couldn't seem to stand the silence any longer, not even for 10 minutes, oh..there he was, finally!. “Everything ok?” she smiled up at him, he just looked so troubled, “yeah..just..something at work, uhmm..I'll ask for the bill”, ok..game over..damn. “I got this” she held up her hand as he reached for his wallet, “no..I..” he tried but she already got up and walked over to the bar, the last thing he wanted was to leave her behind, he wanted to stay here, forget about this stupid tour and just start something completely new with this wonderful, breathtakingly beautiful, incredibly talented woman. “Shall we?” she came walking back to the table, tucking her purse back in her bag but then made an abrupt turn to head for the exit, he wasn't staying, that much was for sure, better to get things over and done with, this wasn't meant to be, a clean break, story of her life, hey hey hey don't go jumping to conclusions just yet. He followed her out and when he saw her fold her arms over her chest to try and keep warm, he sped up to catch up with her “here” he shrugged off his coat and put it around her shoulders. A wave of his perfume and 'just Joe' wafted up to her and she grabbed the sides of the coat, letting the rich fabric roll between her fingers “you're leaving, aren't you?” she refused to look at him, she didn't know why but she just couldn't bear to watch him confirm her worst fear. “Yeah..I'm afraid so” he sighed and she closed her eyes, why did this affect her so much? Simple, because she really, really liked him and this kind of spontaneous crush had never happened and she wanted more of it. 

“Oh..ok” she nodded and pulled the coat a little tighter around her and kept strolling, sometimes silence was the best answer, he seemed to think the same becdause they just kept walking, both of them lost in their own little world but with the same trouble on their mind. “I wish I didn't have to leave but I've got no other choice..” he broke the silence when they arrived at his hotel unexpectedly and some doorman recognized and greeted him, “is this where you're staying?” she stopped and fidgeted nervously with the lapels of his coat. “Uhh yeah, this is me, wait how did we get here?” he looked around him like he didn't know where he was anymore, “doesn't matter” she shrugged his coat off her shoulders and handed it back to him “thank you for the coat..and for today..”. She took a step back but before she could turn around “wait..where are you going?” was she for real? Wanting to leave, just like that? “home..it's getting late” why did she feel like crying? Because this day that had started so wonderfully, was about to end in a total disaster?. “I'll get you a cab” oh just shut up, will you? Just ask if she wants to come up, force her if need be, but she's not leaving, not like this anyway, “no, it's ok, I'll walk..I need to clear my head” she shuffled uncomfortably and instead of a kiss goodbye, she touched his arm with a warm smile and off she went leaving him stunned. Don't look back, Harper, do.not.look.back, because then you'll see the ridiculousness of all this, the meeting, the few seconds it took to develop a crush on this guy..whoclearlyhadotherprioritiesandshewastooafraidtogetattachedtohimtoosoon...run, turn the corner and run like hell. No, this wasn't what he wanted, this couldn't be it..he had just been a little absentminded and wooshhh she was gone..”Harper?! Harppperrr!” he put his coat back on and ran after her.

[sarahboseman]

THE FAMILY REUNION (PART 4)

CHADWICK BOSEMAN X READER

PART 1 - PART 2 - PART 3

After having decided to make this short story become a long fiction. Here is the Part n ^ 4.

WORD COUNT: 5907

WARNING: Mentions of sex, Explicit and adult content, Angst, Disappointment

TAGLIST:

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Hope you like it and enjoy the reading ❤ Reblog if you like it ❤ Pleaseeeee or drop a comment, I like reading them and interact with u 

"Are you really sure you want to go? Did you really think about it? Any rethinking?"

"Kevin, I think I've spent the last two weeks just thinking about that and thinking about the pros and cons to just find an excuse for not leaving" you answer your friend while you close the last box full of books.

"And you found all pros …” Myra says

"Not exactly ..." you answer by moving a lock of hair from your forehead, getting up from the floor.

All your four friends are standing in your semi-empty apartment now trying to metabolize that’s the last night you’re all together. You watch your friends with big tears in your eyes trying to find the right words to greet them once again, but you can’t do it without crying. For years they’ve been your family, your support, everything you had, in addition to your mother and your job, and now they’ll remain in New York, while tomorrow you’ll leave for a new work adventure. Los Angeles and one of the most prestigious dance schools wait for you.

When you received that phone call you thought it was a joke, Chloe answered your phone and you thought she was fucking you around when she reached you in the classroom:

“There’s a Meredith Baker, she says it's urgent"

You froze at that name you know very well, because during your adolescence you had auditions to study in her dance school, but you always had to give up because of the costs your mother couldn’t afford to face. It was too far from home and she would have to revolutionize her life and do different jobs to pay that school and courses, and the scholarships had already been assigned and, in any case, very difficult to conquer.

"I'll be in NY in a couple of days, can we meet for a coffee? I have a proposal to make you” the director of the Californian school has told you on the phone with kindness and care and you’ve accepted without even remembering what were your commitments for Wednesday afternoon. And whatever they were, you would have canceled them.

And when Mrs. Baker offered you a teaching position at her school in Los Angeles, you restrained yourself to yell in the middle of the coffe shop: ”YES! where do I have to sign?” opting then for a better: “I’m flattered by your job offer, I would need a few days to think about it and in that case to organize"

And she cordially answered you "of course, but I’d be very happy to have you in our teaching staff and also in our creative team. I sincerely hope you’ll accept and hope to receive your phone call as soon as possible" ...

"What time the truck tomorrow?" Alec asks, helping you stack the boxes near the front door

"At 7 in the morning, my plane leaves at 3.30 pm. instead. I’d have liked to have it left yesterday, but they had no availability”

"Have you packed everything you need?" Myra asks, wiping her tears with the back of her hand.

"Yes, if I forgot something you have the keys, I didn’t even have the time to see the girl who will rent my apartment, but you’ll think about it Kev, right?"

"Of course, no worries, here everything is under control" he also holds back his tears.

You nod looking around, taking a last look at your almost empty apartment and a piece of your life inside boxes, a sense of nostalgia already fills you, as well as the tears that moisten your eyes.

“It'll be fantastic and you’ll be great, you deserve it” Kevin tells hugging you tight, wishing you good luck once again.

You can’t help but burst into tears on his shoulder, while all the others join you for a group hug.

“Stop crying guys, let's enjoy the last night together, who orders pizza?"

JFK New York AIRPORT - DEPARTURES

"I'll miss you so so so so much baby" Chloe tells you, who along with Kevin, accompanied you you to the airport, Myra and Alec had rehearsals with the new choreographer, so they couldn’t escape. At the thought you won’t have to deal with that arrogant who will choreograph the new show, you're really happy to leave.

“I’ll miss you too guys, but we'll see you soon. As soon as I settle,  I’ll let you know and we organize a meeting” you say while your lower lip begins to tremble.

"Hey, stop crying, let’s think about the positive things" Kevin tells you pulling your hand luggage to accompany you to the board.

“Yes, let’s think positive. For example … Los Angeles is an amazing city” Chloe says

And in turn, the two friends begin to list words to describe Los Angeles as if they were playing a word association game.

"It's always really hot" Kevin continues

"Beautiful beaches" Chloe’s turn

“Sun”

"Sea"

"Hollywood"

"The other Boseman brother ..." Chloe concludes, chuckling and winking, while Kevin rolls his eyes.

You smile nervously at that last word association made by Chloe, thinking back to when he came in New York for his work commitments.

He called you, you answered without hesitation and you met up for a dinner in a nice Italian restaurant in the center of New York.

You wore a beautiful dress that enhanced your not very obvious curves, but just in the right places. You put some light make up on, chosen the right lingerie thinking even a possible after-dinner, but when he showed up with two other friends and a woman who didn’t stop being attached to him, all your fantasies were gone.

That evening, suddenly, it was like if you weren’t even there, you wondered about the motivation for your invitation. During dinner he sat opposite to you, and for a while, you noticed that he didn’t stop looking at you, he didn’t take his eyes off you despite his "friend" insistently demanded his attention, stretching out her hands and touching him to where the decency allowed it.

More than once Chadwick's gaze for you was so languid and penetrating that you felt butterflies in your stomach and a pleasant feeling of warmth coming straight between your legs. But then he ignored you for most of the evening, while instead, one of his male friends tried to get in touch, without reaching his goal ... of course ...

He was different from the Chadwick you met at his family reunion, unlike the Chadwick of the messages and different from the Chadwick of your erotic call. You thought that his behavior was the fault of your coldness, the abrupt way with which you closed the phone call saying: "I'm not asking you anything, I'll let you know if I'm free".

You were mortified by the tone you used, but you had written him the next day. After he didn’t answer you on the phone, twice, you apologized by writing a message: - I wanted to apologize for the way I answered you last night, I didn’t want to be rude, I was just very tired. I didn’t want to use that tone. If you come to New York, I’d be very happy to see you, really -

He had answered you a few hours later, telling you that you shouldn’t worry, that he was bad, but then he understood, and he would let you know, as soon as possible, when he was in New York.

And everything seemed to be ok, you were even convinced to let yourself go following your instinct, you wanted to finished what you started and embrace the feeling, you wanted to have him. In short, you were convinced, but then, what you found in front of you wasn’t exactly what you expected. The fact that he was very interested in his female company, bothered you a lot. Seeing Chadwick flirting with ... you don’t even remember her name ... it made you nervous, seeing from the corner of your eye his hand on her exposed thigh, while whispering something in her ear was the last straw.

"I'm sorry to leave you so soon, but tomorrow will be a very busy day and I'm exhausted" You apologized and, as you went to the cashier to pay at least your part of the dinner, Chadwick joined you to tell you that the bill had already been paid because you were his guest.

"I'll take you outside and I'll call you a taxi" he said to you, resting a hand on your back and you can remember perfectly the feeling of discomfort and disapproval that filled your body and sent you out of your mind.

“I'll call you a taxi” implied that he had no intention of spending the after-dinner with you and that he had other programs for the night. He didn’t even try to kiss you while you were alone out of the restaurant, he only asked you if you were sure you wanted to leave so soon, but his tone was quite detached, cold, you noticed that there was no insistence on wanting you to stay with him.

"Fuck you" you said softly as soon as your taxi left to take you home.....

"Mmmmm Chloe, I don’t think Chadwick and I will see each other very soon"

“You do well, he was a jerk" Chloe says, hugging you again and giving you the last goodbye.

"Call us as soon as you arrive home, please" the two friends almost say in chorus.

You nod and greet them once again by moving your hand and then heading for the boarding. 

A sudden feeling of terror fills you.

Now it's permanent, you're leaving.

**************************************************

"Good morning, Miss Y/L /N, nice to meet you" the owner of the house, Ethan, says shaking your hand and helping you to come out of the taxi taking your bags.

“Nice to meet you too Ethan"

"have a good trip?"

"Yes, it wasn’t bad, but the time zone is already killing me"

"I see. Come, I'll take you upstairs” 

You had to settle for the first thing you found and with the lowest price you could afford in Los Angeles, to be close to work too. But at that price, in New York, you could have afforded a small penthouse with a rooftop pool. The apartment is small, on the second floor of a small building, the neighborhood is nice and seems quiet.

“There's no air conditioning, I'm sorry, the plant broke down a few days ago and I still have to call the technician to make him come and repair"

You nod with a little discomfort ... what the fuck!!! It's so fucking hot and just standing in the middle of the living room, you're melting like an ice cream in the sun. Fuck. "Even the microwave is out of order, forgive me, I'll have a new one as soon as possible" Seriously???? SERIOUSLY??? You can’t live without microwave, it’s your salvation! Fuck, fucking fuck!!

“ok, no problem, I can deal with it …” you try to stay calm

After having you do a mini tour of the house, Ethan explains you the essential things about the functioning, and who to call in case you need something leaving you a couple of phone numbers. You've already noticed that this guy likes to talk a lot. Too much, but maybe you notice it just because you're really tired.

Before leaving you alone, the owner of the house will extend you the keys of the apartment and pick up the first month's rent by hand. When he finally leaves the apartment, everything falls into a disquieting silence.

"Well there is no air conditioning, the shower is tiny, no microwave, but at least there is a nice view” you admit opening the window overlooking the balcony, which in turn overlooks the beach and the ocean.

You sigh, while that familiar feeling of fear and anxiety come back to visit you, but you try to ignore them by writing to your mom and your friends.

-I’m safe, everything's fine. I’ve just arrived at home now, the apartment is not the best, but for the moment it's ok, I'll soon unpack and then rest a little bit- This is the message you send both to your mom and to the whatsapp group.

In less than a few minutes all the answers arrive and even your mother's phone call, which is as caring as ever, floods you with questions to make sure you have everything under control and that you’re comfortable and relaxed. You do your best to reassure her, but you’re not very good in acting and telling lies.

-I'm so proud of you, baby- It's the last thing she tells you before closing the conversation.

-We want pictures of the apartment! -How was your trip? -Did you find the house immediately? -How is the owner?

 Even your friends flood you with questions with messages that come one after another making your phone ringing insistently. You keep answering everyone, until Kevin writes you privately:

-I know you’re there alone and anxiety is troubling you, you don’t know anyone and got tears in your eyes, but remember that it’s not the first time you’ve started such an experience and you’re the bravest woman I know. So smile and you'll see that tomorrow, after you've been at work and you'll meet someone, you'll see everything from a different perspective. Love you like a sister-

Kev is wonderful, his sensitivity exceeds all limits. You really don’t know how you would do without him

-Thank you, I love you zillions, you know that?- -Me too. And ... just because I love you, I allowed myself to do something.. -What K? -I call you”

Your phone starts ringing

"Hello? Kev?" "Hello honey, here I am, everything’s all right?" "Yes, tell me, what did you do?" "Eeehhmmmm .... ok, let me tell you, I wrote to my brother to tell him you’re in LA. Don’t get angry, please. I did it just because you're there alone at the moment and I don’t want to think that if you need something you don’t know who to call or who to reach. I did it just for your own good"

His words come out like a river in flood, without pauses, without taking breath.

"Kev, come on!! You shouldn’t have written to anyone, I can handle it alone. Especially after the treatment I received from Chadwick "

"I know, I know ... but he was very kind, he said you can call him for anything you need and he would call you later to find out if it's all right. I didn’t have to threaten him, believe me, don’t think I forced him"

You roll your eyes, but avoid discussing with Kevin, his action was noble and thoughtful, he had no intention of putting you in trouble.

After that pseudo dinner, you didn’t look for Chadwick and he did the same. You did it not because you were angry or disappointed, but just because you were taken by a thousand thoughts for your new job proposal, you had so full of worries, of evaluations to do, that you have estranged from the whole world to think about what move to do. As for Chadwick, on the other hand, you don't know why he no longer wrote or looked for you, but honestly you didn’t think much of it. 

Perhaps because he was busy, perhaps because he was on vacation, perhaps because he didn’t care anymore and had some other new toy in his hands. You gave little importance. Also because there was no importance to give.  You’re not a couple, you are nothing.  The fact of almost slept together or looking at each other on the phone while you were enjoying yourself, doesn’t imply any kind of obligation ... 

but who the hell are you kidding??? You know you already have that man under your skin.

On time, every night, when you're in bed closing your eyes, you think back to that afternoon with him. More than once you tried insistently to remember the feeling of his skin against yours and the way he made you feel ... it was the most beautiful feeling, after the one of his lips on your breast, on your neck, on your lips while he kissed you. His tongue around you, his intoxicating scent under your nose, he smelled good, he smelled so fucking good.

How much you would have wanted hug him and sink your face on his neck inhaling his intoxicating essence that night in New York. Rubbing your lips on his neck to his earlobe and feel the slight pinching of his beard on your face. It was true, you had him under your skin and you’re still fighting against this obviousness.

Apart from the two big luggages you boarded and the hand one with the most essential things, all your stuff would have arrived in two days with the truck, because you opted for the longest but cheaper option. Embarking everything on the plane it would have cost you too much, so before you collapse on the bed and get some sleep, you want to unpack your bags ago least.

LATE THAT AFTERNOON

"You don’t have to do it Chadwick, really, I can deal with it alone. Kevin didn’t even have to write to you"

“Don’t be so cocky, damn, I’m not doing it because I've been forced, but because I want to do it. I’m pleased to"

A moment of silence passes through your conversation as you snort silently on the phone looking at the ceiling

“Ok, fine. But give me time to get ready, I’m a mess”

"Write me the address, I'm going to get you"

Just as Kevin had told you, Chadwick's phone call wasn’t long in coming. You were resting on your still unmade bed when your phone started ringing incessantly. You had every intention of ignoring all the phone calls to rest, but when you saw his name appearing on the screen of your phone, you didn’t hesitate to respond ... despite everything.

His voice was quiet, inviting, you could hear him smiling as he talked and asked what you were doing in Los Angeles, since Kevin had omitted the reason.

You didn’t give him too many details, but when he proposed to take you for a drive in the late afternoon and then take you to dinner, you tried to refuse, but he insisted a lot.

After all, maybe it’s a good thing ... at least for tonight you do something and distract yourself, seeing a known face can only make you good.

In the meantime you try getting ready at your best, choosing the less wrinkled dress from one of your bag, opting for a very casual short dress and flat jewel shoes. The top and the shorts are in one piece, the top of your mini dress is in white lace, while the shorts have a beautiful red floral pattern. You love it and thank god it was no wrinkled.

It's very hot outside, and this is another thing you'll have to face. The temperature in New York is very different and you already know that you'll have to set aside heavy sweaters, hats, scarves, heavy coats and maybe go shopping to change most of your wardrobe. 

You look around while you look yourself in the mirror and you wonder if it’s appropriate to completely unpack your bags and boxes that will have to come with all your stuff inside. You realize that the apartment is really disgusting, you have to clean it from top to bottom, but beyond that, the apartment is old, the furniture is old, the plants are old ... and you promise to yourself that, as soon as you settle with your salary and monthly pay, you'll look for something else.

While you’re lost in your thoughts about money, rent, apartment, job the bell suddenly rings and you start thinking about who it might be, only to remind you that you had written to Chadwick the floor and the number of the apartment. So it must be him.

After checking through the peephole, you open the door. He takes off his sunglasses to look at you better and you notice that his eyes light up, as well as his smile. His eyes fall on your body and then return to the same level as yours. The effect is welcome, on both sides.

But before greeting you, his gaze inevitably rests behind you.

"Damn ... if you had called me, I would have recommended you something better"

He tells you standing still in the doorway, looking at the apartment over your shoulders.

In the meantime, it’s your turn to take a look to Chadwick, who is simply dressed in a tight-fitting white t-shirt that highlights his perfect body, his breath-taking figure. His light gray leather jacket holding in one hand, while in the other he holds the car keys tight. Sunglasses are hung on the V-shaped collar, and further down you can see the shape of his sculpted chest and his defined six-pack. You remember perfectly when your hands have caressed his body, perhaps a little too hastily to enjoy all its form in every detail. But the first thing you really focus on are his shoulders and his arms ... to tell the truth these are the first things you always look at in men, but his broad shoulders and toned arms are on the verge of legal. His dark jeans wrap perfectly his long, toned legs and at his feet just simple white and blue tennis shoes. You’re staring and drooling a bit.

"Hi Chadwick"

"Hi darling, how you doing?"

“A little messed up, but I'm fine, come on, come in" you wave to him.

You move to let him in and you see his look again on you, then smiling smugly stroking his soft beard, and then look around a little confused.

“Well, at least there’s a beautiful view"

You burst out laughing, an almost nervous one 

"That's what I said after walking around"

"Damn ... if you want I'll give you a hand to look for something else, have you already signed the lease?" He asks you, frowning

"No ... but I’ve already paid the first month"

"Well, do not sign anything. Can I take a look?"

You nod, smile and sigh as he disappears into the kitchen and then into the bedroom.

"Ok, are you ready? A drive and a dinner? So you can tell me what you're doing here” he says smiling as he approaches you, slightly touching an arm and then gently tighten the grip, while he makes a sign with his head that it's time to go out.

You get your bag, your sunglasses, house keys and you follow him out where his beautiful car is parked, right outside the entrance and you stop to admire it just standing a few feet away. You like beautiful cars, a passion maybe inherited from your father, but you gaze it, because you recognize it’s the same car Chadwick drives in that Super Bowl Commercial that Kevin has shown you a thousand times. A light grey Lexus L500 F Sport, with red, leather interiors

"Beautiful uh? Limited edition ... get your fine ass in” he tells you waving his head

“well … Long live the King" you say to him sensually and winking, approaching the car and passing him who keeps the door open for you.

You feel his eyes overwhelmingly on you while he licks his lips the moment your face is a few inches from his, before you lower to get into the car for sitting in the passenger place. You smile to yourself noticing his expression, at least now you’re sure he’s not completely disinterested.

DINNER

"I was not an asshole"

"Chad ... yes, you were an asshole!"

"And why would I be an asshole? Tell me"

“Oh I have a loooong list”

“fine, enlighten me”

“First of all because you invited me to dinner and you came with a woman, then because you ignored me all the time, then again because you didn’t even kiss me out of the restaurant and finally because ... because your friend didn’t leave me alone!”

"Well, you were such a bitch on the phone, so we're even"

After telling him the reason for your sudden moving, inevitably during your dinner, the argument of your meeting in New York comes out, and you can’t fail to point out your disappointment and his not very elegant and nice behavior.

But you’re appalled and your expression is clearly read on your face, when for a moment you remain silent and your mouth falls open

"No, it doesn’t work that way! I apologized immediately afterwards, but you did it on purpose, it sounded like a revenge"

"Yes, it sounded like that and I did it on purpose"

"So you admit it? You fucking asshole” you look at him with your mouth still open and eyes wide, you're incredulous at what you’re hearing, especially because he had told you that everything was ok.

“Of course I admit it. I was so damn pissed off. You can’t answer me like that, after a video call where we … we” … He lowers his voice until only you can hear him "where ... we masturbate one in front of the other, and then you treat me like a shit saying to me - I’m not asking you anything, I'll let you know if I'm free- It doesn’t work this way, beautiful. I don't beg anyone”

You raise your eyebrows as you wrinkle your lips and then soften your expression, nodding with a grin on your face thinking back to that phone call … and thinking about Chadwick begging for you and for more is really inviting.

You brush your fingertip on the edge of your glass of wine, then tasting a sip before answering

"And why are you here with me now and you're not being an asshole?"

Now he’s the one drinking some of his wine staring at you from the edge of his glass, his expression is serious, almost sorry.

"Because I saw your expression when I sent you away by taxi, I realized I went too far and you didn’t deserve that shitty behavior from me and even that bad evening, I was so awful and I didn’t know how to fix it”

You don’t know what to say, your face becomes serious and what you can do is just swallow and place your glass on the table. You can feel his sincerity, his sorry, you could go on talking about it, being bitchy, making him feel even more guilty, taking advantage of the situation and his feelings, but you opt ​​for a smile and another sip of wine, but without saying anything.

You know you’ve to learn letting go your emotions in the right way, and being quiet doesn’t help to communicate. 

"I know you cried feeling uncomfortable because of me. I don’t like it when a woman cries because of me, whatever the reason …” he says, stretching towards you, trying to take your hand in his and then brush it weaving his fingers with yours. A purely harmless gesture, but very very sweet.

But your main attention is on the fact that he knew you were bad and you cried.

"Remind me to cut your brother's tongue and fingers the next time I see him, so he can’t talk to you or write about it” and Chadwick’s look tells you hit the point. 

You curse Kevin for talking to Chadwick about that night and how you felt and you don’t even want to know what they were talking about, so you don’t ask and don’t investigate. So you enjoy that unexpected caress and sweet gesture you didn’t receive from a man since long time, or better, you did’t allow anyone to do it since long time.

"Your dessert, ma’am" as soon as the waiter approaches your table carrying your last order, instinctively your hands loose, ending under the table, almost as if to hide.

“Let’s say that tonight you've made enough of it and then I forgive you Mr. Chadwick Boseman" you jokingly tell him, trying to soften the mood of the evening, stretching your spoon towards his mouth to make him taste the ice cream you chose as dessert. You love ice cream, any taste and in any season, even in winter.

You stay with your spoon in the air for a few seconds waiting for him to open his wonderful, plump, perfect lips and taste what you propose. You don’t deny you would like to be that spoon right now.

For a few seconds his eyes go from your eyes to the spoon, and from the spoon to your eyes, he smiles slightly before tasting the ice cream and then making a slight moan of approval, closing his eyes.

At that little moan the butterflies in your stomach start flying and your temperature rises, you feel your pelvic muscles contract involuntarily and inevitably your mind explodes with the memory of him above you rubbing his body against yours and moaning inside your ear.

"Fuck ..." the curse comes out without sound from your mouth and immediately you try to hide your clear expression and your mood.

“You good?" He questions you smiling with a grin, knowing exactly the effect he caused you, also because it’s the same effect you did to him all for all the evening, especially while you ate the rest of your ice cream and you kept sliding the spoon and your tongue around. He looked at you all the time without you noticing, so you were intent on enjoying your dessert.

Dipped in his thoughts and intent to look at you intensely touching his beard on the chin, he stared at your lips, hands, inside your neckline, imagining you both in his bed while he licked off the ice cream that accidentally he would have slipped on your body.

He would have looked at your crossed legs too, drunk by the complete and meticulous vision of your body, if only they weren’t well hidden under the table.

He felt his jeans becoming too tight between his legs, unable to contain his excitement to those very impure thoughts.

But he doesn’t dare to ask ... although, what he really wants to do right now, is taking you home and fucking you non-stop in his bed until tomorrow morning, then taking a shower with you and fuck you in the shower too, under the jet of water. He just want to make you scream his name like a chant, and he wants to chant your name too, into your ear, losing himself between your legs.

"Chadwick? Chad? Are you there?"

"Mm? Yes yes, I'm here, forgive me, I was lost ... in my thoughts "

"I saw, I hope not to disturb ..."

"No, it was nothing important ..."

Insisting, he offers the dinner and you both walk out of the restaurant for a few meters to head to the car. Like a few hours ago he keeps the door open waiting for you to sit inside and fasten your seat belt.

You watch him turn it on, set the radio and easily maneuver to get out of the parking lot, he's so sexy driving his car, and you're sure to be drooling looking at him. 

After a few meters done in complete silence, except for the music, the tension between you begins unexpectedly rising. You play with the flap of your dress, intertwining your fingers and biting your lip repeatedly in a sign of nervousness, he taps his fingers on the steering wheel and on the manual gearbox, but he’s the first to break the silence after clearing his throat.

“At least, did you like the dinner and restaurant?"

"Very much, the dinner was great and the place was exquisite, thank you Chad"

“you’re welcome, I'll take you home? Tired?"

You nod just because the tiredness is felt, the time zone also, and even a bit of excitement for tomorrow morning peeps between your feelings. He also nods, even if he would rather turn the car and head for his house that is not very far from your apartment, but he can see the tiredness in your eyes and again he doesn’t dare asking, so your conversation in the car touches various topics, but without entering the lustful. No smirk and no languid look.

Chad doesn’t even dare to take an approach as soon as he parks the car under, what you now call, your home.

“here we are"

“here we are…”

"Ready for the big day tomorrow?"

"Mmm I hope so ... but I don’t wanna think about it too much, otherwise I don't sleep”

“Need a ride?”

“no thanks, she’s gonna picks me up”

“ok…”

“ok…”

Tension is palpable between you both

“well … will you update me about your new job?”

You nod smiling to all his questions, then asking: “Is it a harmless way to tell me  -let’s keep in touch, I want to see you again?- or … I didn’t get anything?” 

You ask him shyly. Damn it, you know that you don’t want emotional involvement and don’t want to tie to any man. You’re fighting with your whole self to avoid any sweet and compromising emotion, but Chadwick seems to be able to throw down all the walls with a simple smile or look. You know you’re not yourself right now, shyness and nervousness sometimes implies involvement and you’ve promised to yourself you don’t want to feel love. Love hurts. Sexual involvement ok, but love … nope.

But you can’t deny that having him close to you makes you feel good, even if he was a big asshole with you. This man is flipping your world and all the securities you built around you.

He smiles nervously as he looks in front of him avoiding your gaze, brushing the skin of the steering wheel of his Lexus LS500 F Sport and the tapping it again with is long fingers.

"It was exactly what I meant instead ... adding also, let's meet soon"

"Ok ..." you nod, smiling sweetly

"Ok ... so, good night Y/N"

"Goodnight Chadwick"

But you stay still while sitting in the car, in silence

"Chadwick ... if I don’t unlock the door, I can’t get off"

"I don’t know if I want you to get off" he tells you in a whisper, his tone is deep and sensual.

You quiver in anticipation.

You look at him with soft eyes, he looks at you through his long eyelashes ... you look at his lips, he looks at your lips licking his ... he looks into your eyes staring, you look into his eyes and you still look at his lips while your faces approach dangerously, you can feel his breath almost inside your mouth and his nose touch yours, you both start to close your eyes and what the fuck! both jumped for the scare banging hard each other foreheads.

"HEY, HEY !!! Fuck, can you move you car man?? !! I have to go in!!”

“WHAT A FUCK! I move! Keep calm! JESUS!” Chadwick answers to the idiot who is honking repeatedly behind you

"Ok, it’s better I go, otherwise the neighbors get angry” you tell him by rubbing your forehead for the hit

"Ok, write to me when you're at home and ... please, don’t sign the lease”

“Goodnight Chad”

“Night beautiful”

TO BE CONTINUED ...

Hope you like it and enjoy the reading ❤ Reblog if you like it ❤ Pleaseeeee or drop a comment, I like reading them and interact with u

[jennago]

Life on the Railroad

This Thanksgiving, I took Amtrak from Chicago to Tarrytown, NY, to visit with my extended family. We had a grand time, with only minor drama, good food and good memories abound. My story begins on the return trip home.

Approximately half way between Albany and Schenectady, NY, our train struck a pedestrian. We were eating dinner in the dining car when suddenly the train made an abrupt stop. You could smell the brakes, that’s how hard the stop was. You could tell this wasn’t a planned stop. I remember thinking, I hope we haven’t hit anything. Nothing out of the ordinary was felt on the train, other than the shock of the stop itself. I thought maybe we hit a deer or something like that.

Then the conductor made the announcement that we struck a pedestrian. I froze, looking around at the other passengers, including my family. Everyone was calmly continuing with their conversation. Maybe I hadn’t heard right. But then I caught my husband’s eye and knew I had. I lost my appetite. I felt it in my gut. There’s a dead person under this train, likely in pieces. None of us wanted to discuss it but I couldn’t stop thinking about it. There were actual—not CGI or prop—body parts, under or alongside the train. 

In my darkest depression days when I had relentless suicidal ideation, this was one of my “plans.” It’d be quick and then be over. There are many reasons why I never did this, including getting mental health treatment. But if I’m honest, one of the biggest was concern for the people who would find what was left of me. Specifically, the train crew, the EMTs, and law enforcement. Thinking of what happened after I was dead actually saved me from seeking death. I did not want to put anyone through that, no matter how much depression lied to me about my worth.

Now I was seeing what the train crew went through. I saw the conductor on one of his strolls back through the train cars and spoke to him briefly in the vestibule. He said we should be drinking, because he couldn’t. His face was ashen and I reached out and gently touched his arm. As I tried to comfort him, he said he was relieved that he didn’t have to see the guy’s face, it was turned down. I grimaced. He didn’t provide any other gruesome details, and I didn’t ask, unable to decide if morbid curiosity made me wish to know more or if I were grateful he didn’t elaborate. I found out that the engineer and the conductor get three days off after ‘incidents’ like this. Once the EMTs and police gave the all clear, the train went on to Schenectady to get a new engineer and conductor. I expressed empathy for all of the train crew, one of whom just shrugged and said, “that’s life on the railroad.”

In the end, I found out it wasn’t an intentional act at all. I’m not sure if this makes it worse or not. But I actually felt better. (Better that it wasn’t a version of me, a person who wanted their mental suffering to end.) Apparently there were two guys who were playing “chicken” with the train and one of them lost. My brother says this is worse, but I dunno. Both of them are dumbasses and now one is dead. They weren’t even kids, the conductor said he guessed they were in their 30s. Life and death on the railroad, indeed. 

I’m all right. It hasn’t been a week since this happened. I think about the dead guy’s family. I hope they’re all right. I put my game face on and pretend like there’s nothing to see here. My family needs me. And I am glad to be alive.