#and they tell MY family we need to come back.

[5sospenguinqueen]

Look Ma, I Made It | Liam Lawson x O'Ward! Reader

Summary: For years, you've been known as the younger sister of Indy driver, Pato O'Ward. Now you're going viral for a very different reason, all thanks to a small feature on F1 Wags.

Warnings: fluff, swearing, suggestive comment, being a liam lawson apologist 

Requested: yes by anon. i know you changed the fc to claudia cook gomez but i already had this planned and i couldn't find enough pics for her so i’m really sorry 

Faceclaim: Shira Klein 

F1 Masterlist

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yn_oward just posted

liked by kimi.antonelli, lilyzneimer and others 

yn_oward what do you mean this doofus got to drive an f1 car on our home turf??? he’s going to be unbearable after this 

22,590 comments 

patriciooward photographic evidence as to why i am the favourite child 

→ yn_oward “oo i can drive cars fast. i can pull off the colour orange” yeah, well, i can down a pitcher of mojitos in 6 seconds

→ elbaoward pride and joy of the family 

olliebearman only you could turn a post about your brother into a shameless selfie share

→ yn_oward but how hot am i 

→ olliebearman i fear there’s no safe way to answer this 

→ user1 every day ollie wonders why he chose to befriend y/n liked by olliebearman

liamlawson30 what do you mean you were in the paddock and didn’t come and say hello? 

→ user2 why would she?

→ user3 because they were friends growing up

→ yn_oward i couldn't get away from my fans (pato)

→ patriciooward nurse, she got out again 

liamlawson30 just posted

liked by logansargeant, patriciooward and others 

liamlawson30 mexican madness

67,048 comments 

user4 excuse me, mr lawson, sir. is that a woman?? 

yukitsunoda0511 that angle does me dirty. why do i look so small?

→ visacashapprb i think there’s something we need to tell you… 

user5 i’m confused. did anyone else know he was in a relationship?

user6 is this what gen z call a soft launch? 

yn_oward you’re strong enough to carry a woman? those noodle arms look like they’d snap 

→ liamlawson30 i’m going to pretend like that didn’t hurt my feelings

→ user7 this feels flirtatious to me 

→ user8 and pato liked this post?? 

olliebearman another victim of the ‘my legs are tired’ club,  i see 

→ user9 you know this woman?

→ user10 quick, someone make a list of potential people 

jackdoohan oh it’s finally happening 

→ user11 what do you know

→ user12 let us in 

yn_oward just posted

liked by jackdoohan, oscarpiastri and others 

yn_oward autumn dump 🍂🍁

26,993 comments 

patriciooward i have a reputation to maintain. take this down. i am a serious athlete 

→ arrowmclaren we’ve already passed this on to your trainer

user1 why is no one else commenting on the hoodie photo 

→ patriciooward because we are disgusted and trying to ignore it 

→ user2 i think it’s hot 

user3 so her brother only gets one pic, her bestie only gets one pic but her soft launch gets two!! 

→ user4 y/n’s man, reveal yourself! 

liamlawson30 it looks like you’re trying to smother that man 

→ yn_oward i can assure you, he enjoyed it

→ patriciooward ewwwww

olliebearman the pinata deserved it!

→ yn_oward if i remember correctly, you didn’t end up breaking it

→ olliebearman you’re next 🏌🏻

→ patriciooward get her ass

→ yn_oward why does your social media never get taken away from you. @/arrowmclaren do better 

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f1wags just posted

liked by charles_leclerc, patriciooward and others

f1wags breaking news! y/n o’ward was caught coming out of liam lawson’s garage during the mexican grand prix. the newest f1 driver was snapped pulling her back for a kiss goodbye 

19,009 comments 

user5 he pulled her???

user6 i think liam should release a manual on how to convince a girl wayyyy out of your league to date you 

user7 not charles liking this. he’s such a gossip girl 

→ user8 i bet he sent it to pierre

user9 so this is why they were soft launching around the same time

→ user10 i just thought it was coincidental 

→ user11 that’s because no one thought the cars maniac could pull y/n o’ward 

user12 pato liked this 😂

user13 why is everyone acting like liam lawson ain’t fine??

→ user14 what i’m saying! y/n o’ward is panty dropping but liam is hella fine as well

→ user15 i think if he had a different haircut, it would be over for the rest of the grid 

yn_oward hey look ma, i made it 

yn_oward and everyone thought pato was the famous sibling 

→ olliebearman this is your only reaction to this? 

patriciooward just posted

liked by landonorris, arrowmclaren and others 

patriciooward yes, they are disgustingly sweet together. i have suffered for the past 3 years so now you lot can too 

71,305 comments 

elbaoward i hope you had permission to post these, pato

→ patriciooward why? it’s not like they haven’t been caught already. everyone knows. she’s a pinned post on f1 wags 

→ yn_oward i’m a famous lady 

olliebearman these are the nice photos btw, guys. i have ones of them fighting each other

→ user1 we need to see these as well

→ yn_oward i am a lady. i am polite and docile

→ liamlawson30 baby, they’ve all seen photos that indicate otherwise

visacashapprb it’s nice to see pictures that don’t include y/n trying to climb liam like a tree 

→ patriciooward that is not a comment i want to see ever again 

yn_oward i knew you secretly liked us because these candids are so cute. wtf pato. i didn’t know you were capable of niceness 

→ patriciooward why have you misinterpreted the point of this point. i’m trying to embarras you 

→ yn_oward you love me, and my boyfriend 

→ liamlawson30 i’m really feeling the love bro. a whole post dedicated to us 

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Bonus

yn_oward just posted

liked by francolapinto, kellypiquet and others

yn_oward usually when your man gets a haircut without telling you, it ruins your sex drive. that was not the case today

22,994 comments

olliebearman i don’t think we should be friends if you’re going to continue this way 

→ jackdoohan i second that because bleurgh 

kimi.antonelli i miss when i couldn't read

→ yn_oward i didn’t know you were old enough to know how to 

patriciooward ew. ew. ew. ew. ew

→ patriciooward just ew

→ patriciooward blocked, deleted, removed

→ patriciooward i’m going to go and pluck out my own eyeballs

→ arrowmclaren no. you need them to race 

redbullracing we’re going to need to have a chat about pr 

→ yn_oward crap. @/liamlawson30 either you quit or we break up 

→ liamlawson30 nice try, babe. based on the way you threw yourself at me when i walked through the door, i don’t think you’ll let me go 

→ redbullracing we’re going to need to have a chat about pr 

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requests open

tag list

@peachiicherries @rosecentury @c-losur3 @heavy-vettel @evie-119 @raizelchrysanderoctavius @lilorose25 @sillyfreakfanparty @justaf1girl @piastri-fvx

[ruth-writes]

I hear screams and look up to find their origin. They seem to be coming from the bank. I get up and run into a back alley at the fastest speed a normal human would go before putting on my suit and following the sound of the screams at the spped of lightning. An armed group of people wearing ski masks is holding the petrified employees as gunpoint. Before anyone knows what's happened, I've disarmed them and carried each one to another alley. This one isn't too far from the bank- I want them to find their way home, after all.

"What the fuck, man?" screams one of the women. I can see some red hair poking out from under her mask. "We needed that money, you stupid son of a bitch!"

"I don't care why you did it," I tell her. "A crime is a crime."

The woman with some kind of band shirt speaks up. I can't exactly place the album it's advertising. Rage Against the Machine? She's also upset, but manages to keep her voice more steady. "Some kind of hero you are," she says. "Look, we weren't gonna actually hurt anyone. Our mom has cancer. We need the money for her treatment. But that kind of suffering doesn't matter to you, does it?"

Her words tug at my heartstrings. I think of my sister, and how when she got sick, her primary worry was saddling her family with debt. But I didn't start threatening innocent people over it. "Oh, and the people you traumatized by pointing a gun in their face? You didn't hurt them?"

Red hair gets in my face again. "Aren't you listening? We had no choice."

"You always have a choice," I tell her. "You chose the wrong one." Before they can protest, I continue, "I'm taking your guns. Don't try that shit again. If you do, I'll find you, and I won't be as nice next time."

I leave them with the warning and speed back to the square, where I can hear shouts of joy. "She's saved us again!" I hear someone say. Others cheer, growing louder as I speed past them. I can't surpress my smile. I'm doing good. I'm a hero.

Back in my original alley, I change into my regular clothes and walk back to my spot, leaning against the wall of the apple store, my paper cup in front of me. Today hasn't been a good day. People haven't been very willing to help me out with their spare change.

A woman walks past me with her daughter, wrinkling her nose and giving me a look of disgust. "Ugh," she says. "You'd think with all these superheroes around, they'd do something about you beggars ruining our city."

////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

I didn't really include the part about the reason for not being able to get a job being the superhero duties but oh well.

You're a superhero. While in your suit, you're beloved by the city, but outside of it? You're a homeless man, unable to get a job nor pay rent because of your duties.

[invoncible]

FAILSAFE ✧˚. 00 / PROLOGUE There's only a handful of people with the skillset to raise a gifted child.

knock, knock

Debbie stopped in her tracks. She just closed the door on a potential nanny who was, unsurprisingly, working for Cecil. Was he so desperate to keep tabs on her and her family that he would send these poor employees to wait at her door day in and day out?

She rolled her eyes as she turned around, walking back to the front entrance. He could send as many as he wanted. She wasn't going to budge—and she'd show him by sending away the next agent he put on her doorstep.

"Hi! I'm April Howsam, here for the nanny position?" The woman greeted cheerfully. "This is my aide, Y/N."

You peeked out from behind your mentor, offering a small wave and polite smile.

Debbie's tired eyes darted between you both but before she could put her foot down, April spoke up.

"Before we begin, you should know that Cecil sent us. Now, I wasn't supposed to tell you, but I think it's unacceptable to mislead a potential employer." April clutched her files close to her chest, her brows furrowing. "Especially one looking for someone to take care of their child."

Your gaze landed on Debbie's face, studying her shock with a hopeful heart. A moment of silence passed, but it wasn't uncomfortable or awkward, rather... like an understanding was being shared.

"Please come in." Debbie stepped back, her eyes holding onto a shred of suspicion but clearing the way for you and April to enter her home nonetheless.

You both smiled at her as you shuffled in, the scent of a clean home infiltrating your nostrils almost immediately. Everything was in place—pillows, rugs, art... It was clear Debbie ran her home diligently.

The door clicked shut behind you, Debbie joining you in the foyer. April handed her the file with your resumes.

"As you can see, I have extensive experience working with gifted children ranging from newborns to late teens." April explained as you rounded the corner.

Your eyes lit up upon seeing the baby in question; the cutest little grape-colored boy crawling on the ground. Your lips broke into a smile, mouthing a little hi! and fluttering your fingers in his direction.

He raised his head to look at you, tilting in confusion slightly before crouching lower to the floor like a lion cub about to pounce. He pushed himself up to his feet and returned his efforts to his excursion across the living room.

"So you know that Oliver is..."

"Half Thraxan, half Viltrumite." April answered. "I also know that Nolan Grayson is Oliver's father, and your son, Mark, is Oliver's half-brother."

"You've been thoroughly briefed, I see." Debbie's eyes lifted off the pages in front of her to glance at you and your mentor.

"Yes, we have," April turned to you with a warm smile, reaching an arm around your shoulder and bringing you into the conversation.

"And—I'm sorry, what's the purpose for both of you?" Debbie asked.

"Thraxans are known to grow quickly. I can foster Oliver's learning and mental abilities just fine, but he'll need someone younger who can keep up with him should he want to play outside, for example." April gestured to you. "Which is where Y/N comes in."

"Ah." Debbie's head tilted in acknowledgment, her lips pursing in thought.

"While I don't have the experience April does, my whole life has been centered around taking care of kids." You piped in, glancing at April for reassurance. She nodded kindly.

Debbie raised an eyebrow. "How old are you?"

"19." You answered quickly. Debbie's face fell just a smidge but you quickly continued, "Finished school at 16, spent the years since learning April's trade. You can rest assured I am well equipped to handle Oliver."

Confidence restored, if only a little bit, Debbie smiled. April waved to Oliver as he approached you.

"My philosophy on child-rearing is simple. Encourage a child's natural curiosity," April bumped your shoulder, handing you a teething toy and nodding towards Oliver. "while giving him structure and a safe space to grow."

You swiftly caught up to him, gently holding onto his wrist before he pulled out a pair of scissors from the plant pot. He whined, but you dangled the toy in front of him as a peace offering.

"How about this one?" You hummed. He grabbed it without any fussing, ditching the scissors. You watched him waddle away with a small smile and handed the scissors back to Debbie.

"I also play a mean lullaby on the ukulele." April joked lightheartedly.

Debbie sighed, putting the scissors away at a safe height before dropping onto the couch. "I appreciate your honesty. I just don't want a GDA agent in my house running interference for Cecil on how to raise Oliver."

"There's only a handful of people in the world with my skillset." April flattened her hand over her chest emphatically. "And I'm choosy with who I pass those skills onto. This allows me and my mentee freedom from government oversight. We work for you, Ms. Grayson. Not Cecil."

"You're the boss." You emphasized. Your attention was drawn to Oliver who was sat at Debbie's feet, toying with the teething ring.

"Mama boss." He chirped, twisting to look at her. Debbie instantly smiled, scooping him up in her arms.

"See? Oliver knows who's in charge." April's eyes closed as she laughed brightly, leaning back slightly in her chair. You couldn't help but go awwww at the endearing sight. You had worked with many kids over the last three years, but none as young as Oliver yet.

Debbie smiled, a low sigh passing through her lips. "Let's do it."

[]

Debbie left you both to your devices, deciding to take a meeting with her company to see how she could integrate her way back into her full-time schedule. She still kept a close eye on you, setting up on the kitchen island while she took calls.

"Alright." April cooed, pulling the coffee table out of the way to free up more open space in the living room. "What do you say we assess your abilities, Oliver?"

He babbled happily and April chuckled sweetly as she pulled out her checklist and notepad.

You sensed a break in Debbie's meetings, getting up and strolling into the kitchen area. "Do you mind if I grab a glass of water?"

"Oh, not at all. Help yourself." She smiled over her computer, fingers clacking away at her keyboard.

You thanked her, opening the fridge and pouring a glass. The fridge door swayed shut, revealing Debbie on the other side. You jumped slightly at her sudden appearance, eyes snapping to where she was just sitting.

"You're the same age as my son, you know." She began.

"Yes," You answered smoothly, refilling the pitcher and shelving it back in the fridge. "Mark Grayson. Invincible's a pretty big name right now."

"Ugh, I know." She groaned, a bitter glare focused on the floor.

You cast her a quizzical look before she quickly shook her head of her frown, clarifying, "I'm so happy for Mark, really. But I just worry sometimes. He's working so hard, and Cecil doesn't make it any easier for him—"

You laugh softly, calming her ranting to a stop. "Oh, believe me. I get it. Cecil doesn't make anything easy for anyone."

She smiled appreciatively. "It's so... refreshing to have people I can talk to about all of this, even the GDA."

The Graysons were a popular name at the GDA, what with Omni-man's betrayal, Mark's penchant for attracting the worst kinds of enemies, and now the new baby. You were well aware of Debbie's situation, her burden—it was one of the reasons you jumped at the offer for this case.

"Like April said, we don't work for the GDA and we have a wide skill set." You leaned against the countertop beside her. "Whatever counseling you need, or if you just need to vent, I'll listen. Nothing leaves this house."

She paused, considering your words. Debbie was smart. Even smarter to be naturally distrusting of anyone who is a part of her or her sons' lives. You and April were convincing enough, though, to make her lower her guard just a little bit.

"Yeah." She whispered, eyes creasing with a genuine smile. "I'd... I'd like that. I tried something and... it didn't really work out." Her face drooped, her waterline growing glossy as she recounted trying her luck with the support group.

Her moment of reminiscing shattered when her phone buzzed. "Uh... another time. Rain check?" She chuckled, rounding back to her station and answering the call.

"Of course." You smiled politely when she met your eyes, sipping from your glass.

You wondered how long it would take them to find out you're lying through your teeth.

[]

Mark wanted to drop dead after spending hours trying to do the exact opposite. But no—he negotiated with Cecil for a few days off so he could spend time with Amber. He wasn't going to crash when he had to prepare for their date tomorrow. He wouldn't forgive himself if he slept in.

Dusting off his sweater and pants as he flew back home, he quietly slipped in the back of the house. It was dark, as expected. His mom was usually asleep during this time, Oliver included on a good day.

It seemed to be a good day.

He wiped his shoes on the mat at his feet, trudging into the kitchen for a quick snack before bed. He had to be up early if he wanted to beat the crowds at the Comic Convention.

He froze when he heard Oliver's sniffles. His head twitched to the side, tuning out the low buzz of the fridge to listen in. He heard a voice—light and sweet, comforting, but most definitely not his mother's.

Panic snaked its way around his heart and tugged, his breath short as he bolted up the stairs. He stood tensely in the hallway, peering into his mother's room to see her untouched bed.

His brows furrowed as he burst into Oliver's room. "Oliver—?"

You and Oliver both flinched at the sudden intrusion, staring up at Mark with saucers for eyes. Oliver giggled happily, reaching out for his brother.

Mark lunged forward. Not to embrace his brother, no—his hand curled around your throat instead, driving you into the wall behind you.

You gasped sharply, eyes screwing shut as the force knocked the wind from your lungs. You clawed at his arm, feet kicking helplessly with nothing to stand on. "Wait—"

He hovered over your squirming body mercilessly, squeezing to watch you splutter.

"Who are you?"

© invoncible

[bucktommyyendgame]

Back to the Drawing Board

Wasn't that something? Are Buck and Tommy endgame-shaped, or what? I obviously couldn't let that ending go soo...here is a little post ep ficlet.

SPOILERS FOR 8X11: Holy Mother of God

bucktommy - words: 800-ish - rating: gen - complete

It does feel good to get things unpacked, that's for sure. His talk with Maddie helped but he knows she was wrong about plenty of things.

And definitely about the need to be alone. He doesn't want to be alone. He knows exactly what--who--he wants.

He pulls his phone out of his pocket, opens up a very familiar text chain.

Hey. Can we talk?

He watches and watches and watches.

And the bubbling starts.

He swears his heart is in his throat and he holds his breath. It feels like it takes forever but Tommy’s answer comes through.

I would like that. Free today?

Buck takes one long exhale in relief. Coffee shop in an hour?

I’ll be there.

Buck makes it in 45 minutes. He orders both their coffees, Tommy’s Iced Flat White with Almond Milk in one hand and finds a table. The feeling of deja vu is so eerie that he looks around to make sure he didn’t also accidentally pick the same table.

He texts Tommy to tell him where he is and waits.

It only takes Tommy about two more minutes before he’s walking up, an uncertain smile on his face. He still looks as sad as he did when he left the kitchen and Buck really really hates that he put that look there.

“Hey,” Tommy says as he sits down. Buck pushes the coffee toward him and he talks a sip, humming in approval.

“Hey,” Buck answers.

They sit in semi-uncomfortable silence for a moment or two before, at the exact same time, they both say, “I’m sorry.”

They each laugh a little before Tommy sobers. “Please let me start.

“Okay,” Buck says, feeling off-kilter.

Tommy bites the inside of his cheek, then says, “I never should have brought up Eddie. It was stupid. I never seriously thought I was in competition with him.”

Buck eyes him. “I’m not sure that’s true.”

Tommy sighs. “I-”

“No,” Buck insists. “Look, Eddie is my best friend. We’ve been through some really difficult things together. But I want you to know that there are no, absolutely none, romantic feelings there. When you said you wanted to try again...God, I thought I was getting exactly what I wanted.”

Tommy looks down, fidgeting with his cup. “Until I stuck my foot in it.”

“It was something that was clearly bothering you,” Buck points out. “Is...is that what you thought the entire time we were together?”

“No,” Tommy says. “No, I just...Look, Evan, I’ve never...I’ve never been the first. For anyone. You have this huge support network around you and I don’t.”

Tommy holds up a hand when Buck opens his mouth to say something.

“And I don’t say that to, garner sympathy, or something, I say it because when push comes to shove, I don’t have the family that you’ve found for yourself. I guess, maybe, I was unsure of my place in that,” Tommy explains. “I have friends, acquaintances, I’m not alone. I guess I just didn’t know how to fit into your life.”

“Okay,” Buck says slowly. “But what if I said that I wanted to do that? I want to work on us, I want you to fit into my life. I’m sorry Eddie cut off contact, I didn’t know that.”

Tommy shrugs, but Buck continues. “Maybe we just didn’t communicate enough in those first six months. I see that now. But, I want to figure this out. I want to be with you.”

Tommy purses his lips, takes a deep breath. “Yeah?”

Buck holds a hand across the table, palm up. Tommy barely hesitates, sliding his fingers through Buck’s lacing them together.

“Yeah,” Buck confirms. “That night...was everything I’ve been wanting for months, Tommy.”

This time, Tommy’s smile is sweet and soft. “Me too.”

“We slept on the box spring,” Buck says with a laugh, gratified when Tommy laughs too.

“I was a little desperate for you,” Tommy admits.

“I think you could tell I was the same with you,” Buck says wryly. Tommy laughs again.

“So,” Buck says with a deep breath. “What do you say? Can we try again?”

“I would really really love that,” Tommy says, squeezing his hand. “Starting now?”

Buck brings his hand to his mouth and kisses the back of it. “Starting now.”

tag list part 1

@desert--moonchild, @blitzynatural, @multishippinghussy, @mmso-notlikethat, @esendoran

@sunnywithachanceofbi, @sleepywinchesters, @buck-up-buckley, @manifestingchaoticvibes, @corvid-cryptidd

@lbltpsmspenguin, @theotherbuckley, @cliophilyra, @actuallyitsellie, @thecarrott

@louvemeanyway, @misstommykinard, @the-omniscient-narrator, @comfortpilot, @a-mel0n

@hyperfocusthusly, @mayorjack, @weewookinard, @swagmaster9k, @dudedudeduda

@byunbuckjunmy, @adamkaradecc, @retromodgirl, @gaybonesforivy, @cull3nblaze

[thewritingrowlet]

The Trembling Heart, ft. FIFTY FIFTY Chanelle

tags: first time, creampie

length: 6k+

author's note: I tried a more show-not-tell approach with this—let me know if you like it.

-

“Good morning, gentlemen,” you greet your men.

“We’re going to head to Pioneer Heights this morning. We will be taking over evacuating the earthquake victims, and since most of the big rubbles have been cleared a few hours ago, we won’t use as many heavy equipment this time.” As you speak, you notice the way some men are getting uneasy; your best guess is they have loved ones they haven’t heard from since the event of the quake. “I won’t waste more of your time; you already know what to do—let’s roll, gentlemen.”

After putting on your helmet, you get in the passenger seat of one of the rescue trucks. “Captain,” the man holding the wheel calls to you. “I’ll be honest, I really want to look for my wife and child.” You ask if he knows where they were around the event of the disaster, and based on the phone locator app he has, they were in the downtown area when the earthquake struck.

“I understand that you’re concerned, but we already have a ton of people there; your family will be found in no time,” you attempt to assure him, placing your hand on his shoulder for good measure. The man nods slowly, his eyes remain fixed on the steering wheel. “Yeah, I suppose you’re right,” he sighs, “alright, let’s head to Pioneer.”

Before long, you and your convoy are on your way to Pioneer Heights, and it’s only a couple of blocks away before you reach the edge of the area. While it’s true that heavy machinery has cleared most of the heavy wreckage, there are still some high piles you and your crew need to get through. “Alright, let’s get off here and spread around.” The men on the back of the truck catch the signal as you get off, following your gesture and doing the same. “Four hours of search and one hour of break for two shifts for now.”

You let your crew spread around the area while you opt to take on this sizeable pile of ruins in front of what used to be a high-rise apartment building. “Time to test this new toy.” You pull out a ground-penetrating radar that was recently developed by a high-tech contractor, and you’re glad to see that it allows you to get an idea of what’s trapped underneath all of this mess. “That… looks like a person.” As you put your ears against the rubble, rhythmic, nearly inaudible knocks are heard—only a person is capable of making such rhythm.

“Someone’s here!”

 With the help of a fellow rescuer, you lift the big debris, putting your backs to it to free this trapped person who turns out to be a woman around your age; her hair is a mess, her body is bruised and cut, and her clothes are damaged in various spots. “Let’s get you out of here, miss.”

“M-my brother,” she mutters weakly. “F-find him.” You nod firmly. “Of course, it’s what we’re here for.” You help her get on a stretcher, and as she gets carried away to receive medical help, you turn your focus back on the pile. “Alright, mister brother, where are you.”

After a few minutes of scanning, another void is detected in the pile. “I hope that’s him,” you think. Since the pile he’s stuck under consists of smaller pieces, you can dig through it yourself, and before long, you see a glimpse of skin through a tiny gap. “Someone’s here!” you announce again. You focus on pushing the rocks aside until more of the victim’s body can be seen. “Hold on, mister; help is coming,” you say to him.

“Ah, fuck—someone get me a drill, please.”

You stick your hand out, and a handheld drill is handed over to you by one of your crew members. You use the chisel-like tip to break the boulder into smaller pieces that are easier to handle. Soon, there is enough room to pull the man out of the mess, and based on the similar facial features, you guess that this is the brother of the woman from earlier. “You’ll be tended to by the medics now, mister,” you say to the weak, out-of-oxygen man.

-

A few days after the evacuation operation, you’re invited by one of the doctors of a nearby hospital to visit the recovering evacuees. She says that you should wear your duty attire, since that will likely help them recognize you.

You arrive at the hospital in your high-vis orange operative uniform, donning a radio on your chest for some extra appearance points. A doctor wearing a mask welcomes you at the front desk. “Good morning, Captain Morris.” You shake her hand firmly. “Good morning to you too, doctor.” As she guides you to your destination, the doctor, whose last name is Arnot (based on the name tag on her chest), proceeds to ramble about how everyone at the hospital has been working restlessly to tend to the survivors. “Doing God’s work as always, Doctor Arnot.”

The doctor stops at a slightly ajar door at the end of the second-floor hallway. “Let’s start here.” She opens the door for you and guides you in to see this survivor. “Miss Moon, this is the SAR operative you wanted to meet.” Your heart skips a beat. “Wanted to meet me, hey?” you thought.

The doctor soon leaves, giving you and this Moon lady a chance to catch up in private. “Hello, good morning,” you wave at her with a smile, “my name is Morris, Gerald Morris, from the Search and Rescue unit.” She returns the smile twice as sweetly. “Chanelle, Chanelle Moon,” she introduces herself. “Please, have a seat.”

You take her invitation, dragging a chair to sit close to her. “How are you, Miss Moon?” Her lips curve into a warm smile. “I’ve been well, and so has been my brother, all thanks to you.” Your cheeks warmed, and a flush crept up your neck thanks to her praise. “I don’t mean to brag, miss, but I was just doing my job.” Chanelle chuckles. “Sure, but you did your job so well, and for that, I’m thankful.”

Chanelle asks if you have time to spare to listen to her. “Well, yes, but if duty calls, I’m out of here.” Her face turns serious for a moment. “Oh, are there still evacuation operations?” You tell her that there are still open reports of missing loved ones submitted by the people, and the SAR department is busy turning every rock to find them. She nods, seemingly deep in thoughts. “Well, I wish all of you good luck. If there’s anything I can help you with, please don’t hesitate to let me know.” You thank her for the kind words and intentions.

“Yeah, that’s enough talk about work—do you have any other thing to talk about?”

“Not really, but I still would love to have you here with me,” Chanelle’s beautiful smile makes a return, “so, would you stay for a while?”

You offer a tentative smile as you think about the hidden intentions and unspoken words, and eventually, you decide to reply, “I will be honest, I don’t want to make us a subject of gossip by lingering around for too long.” Chanelle sighs as a flicker of disappointment crosses her features. “You’re… brutally frontal,” she says.

“I mean… I can give you my number, if that’s okay with you.”

Chanelle chuckles at your offer. “Are you interested or are you not, because I’m getting mixed signals here.” Her words have you scratching the back of your neck awkwardly. “I don’t know, really—I do know I enjoy being with you, though.” The way you’re saying these words oh-so-brazenly makes you think you’re not in control of yourself. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t be so presumptuous,” you try to save yourself. Chanelle shakes her head. “You weren’t, so please, write down your number somewhere.”

There’s no paper or pen in the hospital room, so you head out to the nurse’s desk to get one. “Excuse me, can I get a pen and paper, please?” Lucky for you, the nurse doesn’t ask any question; she just hands you what you’re asking for. With them in hand, you return to Chanelle’s room.

As you write down the digits of your number, your satellite phone rings, and because of the panic, your handwriting becomes rushed and ugly towards the end. “I’m sorry, but I’m needed somewhere else,” you say. She nods in understanding. “Of course—save them all, tiger.” You and Chanelle look at each other, as if waiting for one party to say something first. Her chuckle tells you that she has nothing else to say. “Right, well,” you hand her the paper with your number on it, “see you soon, Chanelle.”

-

Around a week has passed since the earthquake, and the city is slowly getting back on its feet. Shops and offices are reopening, remnants of debris are getting cleared, and sirens are heard less often. Compare this peacefulness to the chaos from a few days ago when things are a mess; it’s almost fascinating how quickly people move on. While you enjoy such peace and sitting around in your office, it’s getting… boring.

So, to combat this boredom that’s getting unbearable, you decide to head out of your office, and since it’s close to downtown—thank God for that promotion two years ago—you don’t have to walk far to reach civilization. You make your way to this minimalistic coffee shop called Memories at The Intersection that is located at the intersection opposite you, hoping to find one of two things: something that can warm your body or someone to chat with.

Your eyes pick up nothing extravagant inside the shop; wooden furniture is spread around the interior, the barista is at the back, and there are stools going around the counter. You approach the counter while looking at the no-frill menu shown on the overhead TV.

“Hello, welcome to Memories at The Intersection. What would you like to have, officer?” You have a habit when visiting a new coffee shop to test its quality, which is to get a large iced americano and a large latte with no sugar. “Of course, that would be $10 for both.”

You pull out your wallet from your pocket, and that’s when the woman sitting at the counter next to you says something. “No, he’s with me; I’ll pay for his stuff.” Without looking at her, you (politely) insist on paying yourself—the woman insists back, though. “Please, that’s the least I can do for someone who saved my life.”

Your gaze leaves your wallet and moves towards this woman, and your heart skips a beat. “Chanelle? What are you doing here?” She chuckles. “I mean, this place is mine.” You see the barista blushing at the movie-like scene that is unfolding before her eyes, and you can’t help but chuckle. “Well, isn’t this just convenient.”

Chanelle invites you to join her in her room upstairs, and you take the offer without thinking twice. “Send his orders upstairs, Athena,” Chanelle says to the barista as you leave with her. “Oh, and be sure to knock first—don’t walk in on us while we’re… talking.” Heat creeps up to your cheeks due to her suggestive words. “Of course, Miss Moon,” Athena says.

Chanelle takes you to her private space that almost feels like a living room at someone’s house. “Sorry about the mess, but nonetheless, welcome to my office, Gerald.” You break out a laugh. “Believe me, baby, my office is much messier than yours.” She turns around and looks at you straight in the eyes. “Baby, huh? You’ve gotten comfortable with me, haven’t you, SAR Operative Gerald Morris?” You slap your own mouth for letting the endearment slip out. “My, I’m so sorry, that was very rude of me.” Chanelle smiles sheepishly. “Oh, it’s fine—I mean, I would be lying if I wasn’t attracted to you.”

You’re stuck in a stupor. “She’s attracted to me, huh,” you ask yourself. Chanelle snaps her fingers in front of you. “C’mon, it’s not the time to lose focus.” She turns around after getting you unstuck, but her steps are halted when you catch her wrist in your hand. “What—” Before she can finish her sentence, a fleeting peck lands on her lips. “Thank you for everything, Chanelle.” She licks her lips, savoring the taste you left on them. “Sure, Gerald,” she smiles warmly, “thank you for everything too—I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for you.”

After easing the tension between the two of you, Chanelle makes her way towards her desk. “What’s that for,” you ask, pointing at the microphone that’s fixed on a stand. “Singing, of course,” she answers, excitement woven in her voice. You ask if she’s down to sing right now, but she says no; she’s not in the mood and isn’t feeling well enough to sing. “I will sing for you next time, though.”

Chanelle sighs deeply as her butt lands on her chair. “Gerald,” she calls to you. “Can I ask some things about your work?” You headed out of your office to take a break from thinking about work, but Chanelle wants to talk about work—eh, whatever; let’s entertain her for now. “Yeah, sure.”

“What was the most difficult operation in your career?”

“Physically or mentally?”

Chanelle pauses momentarily.

“Both.”

You take a few deep breaths as you formulate an answer for her. “Saving that drowned child was… very rough,” you reveal. Her features soften as she imagines what it must have been like for you. “Drowned child, huh? Can I ask why it was difficult?” You nod. “He was the only child of a couple who had been childless for 13 years.” Chanelle stays silent, giving you the chance to keep talking if you wish. “Talking more about the operation would kill the mood, so I’ll stop here.”

It seems that she regrets asking that question. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to go that deep right out the gate.” You close your eyes as you try to shake off the resurfacing images from that operation. “Yeah, well,” you sigh heavily, “that mission was both successful and unsuccessful at the same time.”

Some knocks are heard from the door, and you get on your feet to answer it. “No, no, let me,” she says, opting to answer it herself. Chanelle returns to you with your orders in her hands. “Here,” she hands them over to you, “let me know if you like it.” You first take a sip of the iced americano. “Pretty good,” you say. Chanelle lightly smacks you on the shoulder. “If you wanted to test us, at least do it properly—get a pour-over or something like that,” she says. Your cheeks turn red as you chuckle. “Sorry, I just like iced americano a lot.”

She then urges you to try the sugar-less latte, and your comment is the same as the americano. “Ugh, you’re so annoying—y’know, we should have a coffee date one day; I’ll teach you everything about coffee.” There is an opening to be bold here. “So, you’re saying that you want to see me again?” Chanelle, having been caught slipping, bites her bottom lip. “Maybe I do.”

As you enjoy the coffee and Chanelle’s company, rain starts pouring out of the night sky, falling hard right from the start. “Should’ve ordered something hot,” you blurt, thus causing Chanelle to laugh. “I mean, we have the best cappuccino in the city, if I do say so myself.” “Oh, yes, please,” you take her up on the offer right away. Chanelle calls the barista downstairs with the landline on her desk, ordering on your behalf. “Hey, uh, do you want some snacks too?” You say yes, so Chanelle orders a mixed snack platter for you. “Alright, they’ll be here soon.”

Before long, a cup of cappuccino and a plate of fried snacks appear before your eyes, delivered by the same barista from earlier. “You’re going to need to pay if you keep this up,” she quips. “Oh, don’t worry about it; I’ll even pay interests if I must.”

You take a piece of potato wedge from the plate and dip it into the sauce. As you munch on it, Chanelle looks at you intently while leaning against her propped-up arm. “I like garlic, and I hope you do too,” she comments. You show her two thumbs up. “Awesome sauce—just the perfect amount of garlic.”

Chanelle leaves her chair and joins you on the couch. “Do you mind sharing?” she asks. “No, not at all; have at it.” She replicates your gesture of picking up a piece of potato wedge and dipping it in the sauce, but she doesn’t look as satisfied as you. “Something’s off…” Chanelle trails off as she thinks about it. “Is it, though, because I think this is good?” Her forehead creases. “You don’t think this tastes bitter?” Well, you do, but you thought it was part of the charm. “Yeah, no, it’s not supposed to be like this.”

Chanelle offers you to get another sauce, but you decline, saying that you like this one despite the bitterness. She scoffs. “You like bitter? Is your life not bitter enough?” You chuckle a bit. “My life isn’t bitter now that you’re here with me.” She smacks your arm. “Oh, aren’t you the charmer,” she counters.

The satellite phone in your back pocket buzzes, a call to get back to reality. “Ah, shit,” you say in your head. “Not now,” you think. “Hello, this is Morris,” you greet the caller, forcing a calm, professional tone. “A landslide? Where?” A nervous shiver runs down Chanelle’s spine as she listens to the conversation you’re having; the thought of getting caught in a landslide triggers her trauma of being caught in an earthquake. Not only that, but the way you shift away from her does nothing to ease her nervousness.

“Hey, I—” The tenseness in her body is clear for you to see; her knuckles that are gripping her knees are white, and her gaze is long yet empty. “Chanelle, I’m sorry, but—” “Go, Gerald,” she says with urgency in her voice. “Do you need me to take you there?” You quickly consider the practical aspect of her offer, since your squad mates must have taken the truck. “Yes, please.”

Chanelle turns out to be quite the fast driver, zipping through traffic and cutting people off at every chance she gets. “Just a few kilometers to go, baby.” The endearing term flies out of your lips without restrictions—your mind is too occupied with thoughts of evacuating people out of the landslide.

As soon as the car stops, you quickly thank Chanelle for the help and sprint towards the evacuation site, not even bothering to put on a helmet first despite getting yelled at by your team members. “Then get me a damn helmet, why don’t you?” you bark back. Someone puts a helmet on your head from behind, and you make quick work with the strap, thus fixing it in place.

Chanelle steps out of her car after getting herself calm. Her gaze darts around, following your every movement as you scurry around the site. “C’mon, Gerald, save them like you saved me,” she thinks. She unconsciously steps closer towards the site, only stopping because a police officer reminds her to keep her distance. “Please, that’s my boyfriend,” she blurts. Insistent, the officer raises his hand, but his expressions are softening. “Your boyfriend is in safe hands, miss; these guys are the best we have,” the officer replies. Pride soars in her heart at the officer’s words. “Yeah, well, my boyfriend is the one with safe hands,” she says to herself, her eyes still stuck on you.

-

Time has passed by, and your legs finally give out, thus causing your butt to land on the rough asphalt. “Fuck, man.” Your chest heaves, each breath ragged and heavy. “W-water, please,” you say to a police officer who’s staring at you. With a firm nod, he turns around to find some water for you, and before long, you have a bottle of water in your hands. “T-thanks,” you say weakly.

“Gerald! Gerald, over here!” Chanelle’s voice cracks as she calls you over. You turn your head towards the source of the sound; Chanelle is waving her arm with fervor to get your attention. With a grunt, you gather your strength and walk towards her with heavy steps, dragging your legs along the way. You collapse near her, and Chanelle promptly gets down to her knees on the ground, her arms running on your body, trying to drive exhaustion away from your body. “You’ve done well, baby; you’ve done all you could,” she says, offering support and praise. Your eyes are closed as you nod. “T-thanks, baby.”

The blaring sounds of the ambulance siren pierce through the night, but they resemble the most comforting musical arrangement to your ears. “Yeah, take them,” you mutter weakly. Your racing heart gradually slows down as the sounds of the siren fade away, and now you’re able to open your eyes again.

“C-Chanelle,” you weakly lift your hand to reach her face, your voice barely audible, “t-thank you, seriously.” Tears prick at the corners of her eyes, threatening to spill over as she cups your dirty face. “No, baby, thank you—thank you for saving them,” she replies, her voice shaking from the emotions. The endearment wraps around your exhausted body like a warm blanket. “I’m sorry but let me catch my breath for a minute.”

“Baby, let me take you home—you look like you can’t even stand,” Chanelle offers you some help. You nod, grateful for her generous offer. “That… would be great, actually.” With her help, you lift your back off the ground and get in a sitting position. You then call one of your teammates over. “Wrap things up quickly and RTB,” you say to him. “Yes, sir,” he replies, leaving your side to spread the command around. After making sure that everyone gets the message, you shift your attention to Chanelle. “Alright, I-I think we can go home now.”

Chanelle wraps her arm around you, guiding you back towards her car. “You know,” she breaks the silence, “I’m so, so proud of you, baby—you were incredibly brave, you know.” Fighting the heat on your cheeks, you thank her for the supportive words. “Alright, I’ll take you home now, baby,” she says. “I promise you will have the best sleep tonight.”

You groan as you settle yourself into the passenger seat. “Oh, God, my back.” Chanelle looks at you, studying your expressions intently. “Patience, please—look, I’ll drive fast like earlier.” As the car starts rolling, you lean against the window, your eyes getting heavy. “I’ll… get some rest.”

-

Chanelle taps your forearm to wake you up. “Babe, we’re here,” she whispers softly. Sleepy you might be, but you know this isn’t the neighborhood you live in. “This is my place,” she confirms. “C’mon, I’ll help you inside.” You shake your head, determined to get yourself on your feet. “I’ll be just fine, baby,” you say, your voice heavy.

Once again, Chanelle puts her arm around you as she guides you around the interior of her house. “Look, that’s our destination right there,” she points at a closed door, and you’re relieved that you don’t have to go up some stairs.

Chanelle props you up on the edge of the bed. “Undress, baby,” she demands. “Don’t sleep in your uniform.” You pause as you’re hesitant to oblige, considering the type of dynamics you currently have with her. “I-I only have my boxers underneath this,” you say. She looks nervous to have you nearly naked in front of her, but it’s the best in her opinion. “Just… just do it, please,” she says, her voice firm yet tender.

You make quick work of your uniform, leaving them discarded on the floor by the bed. “Good, baby, now lie down for me,” she says. Chanelle's eyes widen slightly as she takes in the sight before her; the way the fabric of your boxers stretch with your every move steals her attention. “Not now, Chanelle—he doesn’t need it right now,” she tells herself, doing her best to resist the growing urge.

Fighting the hesitation in her head, Chanelle climbs onto the bed, hugging you from the side. “Oh my God, you’re hot.” You chuckle a little. “Excuse me?” She blushes at the realization of the ambiguous nature of her statement. “No, I… I didn’t mean it like that—your body is literally hot, Gerald.” A small laugh leaves your lips. “Yeah, I got what you meant,” you say, amusement drawn on your face.

-

Chanelle stirs awake when she feels you jolt out of nowhere. “Baby,” she calls to you in a whispered voice. Through her sleepiness and the darkness of the bedroom, she scans your body for signs of discomfort, and she finds plenty of them; your body is tense, your veins are popping under the skin of your neck, and your forehead is coated with cold sweat. Her heart clenches with worry as she touches your heaving chest, her hand trembling from the unease in her belly.

A tear rolls down her cheek as you keep shaking violently in your sleep. “G-Gerald,” Chanelle rubs your chest tenderly, “Gerald, please, it’s just a nightmare.” Her attempt at soothing you is futile; you’re still tossing your head around as if trying to dodge something. “Gerald, please, baby,” she voices her distress at your condition. In a moment of desperation, Chanelle shakes your whole body with all her might until you wake up.

“Gerald, just wake the fuck up already—please!”

“H-huh? W-what?”

Seeing you wake up, Chanelle falls limply onto your body, still unable to stop crying. “G-Gerald, y-you were having a nightmare, weren’t you, baby?” Your gaze roams the dim bedroom. “Y-yes, I-I think so,” you reply. She presses a kiss onto your chest. “Y-you’re safe with me, baby; y-you don’t have anything to worry about, trust me.” Your hand subconsciously lands on the small of her back just above her hips. “I-I’m sorry, baby; I… I didn’t mean to worry you like that.”

Chanelle’s sobs die down eventually, but her embrace isn’t losing its warmth at all. She snuggles closer while looking up at you. “Do you… want to talk about it?” You take a deep breath; talking about it will help ease the emotional strain. “I saw… people,” you begin, your voice shaky. “They were screaming, so desperate for help, but no matter how hard I tried, they just… they kept getting swallowed by the ground—I… I couldn’t save them.” Chanelle keeps her gaze while her fingers softly tap your chest as she listens to you, creating a safe space for your vulnerable self.

“You know what, though, baby,” she says in a loving, tranquilizing tone. “There are a ton of people out there who were so lucky to have you save them, and I’m one of those people.” Your mind goes back to the day you pulled her out of the rubble, comparing her looks then and now. “You were so… weak,” you mutter. Chanelle sighs at the cheerless memory. “I was holding on to dear life, and suddenly, you freed me from the debris. You’re a hero, Gerald—you’re my hero.”

Despite the dimness of the bedroom, Chanelle’s glassy eyes are clear for you to see. “I love you, Gerald—I want to be with you when nightmares invade your sleep.” You place your hand on hers, savoring the little electric shocks from the contact. “Nightmares won’t haunt me ever again, baby; they’ll be scared of you, my guardian.” A chuckle escape Chanelle’s lips as a tear cling onto her cheek. “No, that’s really cute, actually,” she says. “Now, let me take you to sleep again, Gerald.”

-

Chanelle, fighting the heaviness of her eyelids, looks around the bedroom that is subtly lit by the morning sun. She sighs in contentment as her body relaxes, the tension from the previous night melting away. She looks up towards you, and when your gaze suddenly meets hers, her heart skips a beat.

“Goodness me, I thought you were asleep.” Your lips curve into a smile. “I mean, I was—I woke up not long before you,” you say. Chanelle hides her face deep in the crook of your neck, filling her system with your scent. She silently wishes you had taken a shower before you slept, though.

“I won’t lie; I haven’t slept this good in a while.” “Must be because you slept next to your hero,” you quip, a hint of teasing in your voice. “Oh, yeah, absolutely,” she says. “It felt so safe, and I’m sure you felt the same.” You nod slowly, having no intention of disagreeing. “Thank you, baby, for everything you’ve done so far.” Her cheeks turn soft pink; hearing such an endearment feels rather overwhelming when it’s said in a relaxed situation compared to a heated one.

Chanelle slowly untangles her limbs from yours, gracefully sliding out of bed. “We should start the day soon—what if you’re called to duty again?” Your grin falters, but you quickly regain control of your expressions. “Well, you know the drill; if I get a call, I’m out of here.” She looks at you with a smile, her heart swelling with pride for what you do. “I probably shouldn’t say this, but I hope you don’t get a call today; I think you deserve some rest.”

You keep your eyes on her swaying hips as she leaves you alone in bed. “Oh, by the way,” she suddenly turns around, catching you staring at her asset, “I’ll make you some coffee, give you a taste of perfection.” You chuckle, already excited at the prospect of having Chanelle make you coffee. “Surprise me, baby.”

After getting yourself together, you step out of the bedroom, and the smell of coffee invades your nose unforgivingly—it’s dark with a subtle hint of chocolate. “It smells much better than your coffee shop.” Chanelle laughs, amused by your comment. “It’s far better and more expensive than the stuff I sell there,” she says.

Before your eyes comes this warm, magical brew that might as well be a love potion, the steam carrying every bit of aroma. “Wow, the smell,” you take a quick sniff, “that’s just incredible.” Chanelle watches you intently, a wide smile spreading across her face, her eyes sparkling with pride and affection.

You close your eyes as you savor the flavors that linger on your tongue; the coffee is rich yet smooth, and the chocolaty edge gives more character and depth to it. In a moment of speechlessness, you let your body melt into the chair of the dining table, sighing in contentment over and over again.

“Wow—just wow,” you’re simply in awe, “can I buy this somewhere, because I would love to start every single day with this?” Chanelle pads over to you with her fists on her waist. “Why buy it if you can get it from me every morning, baby, hm?” Your cheeks are almost as hot as the cup of coffee. “Oh, stop, you’re going to make me burst.” Her fingers on your chin have your heart racing as she tilts your head upwards. “Now you feel more like a regular person than a no-bullshit SAR guy.” A smirk graces your features. “Do I also feel more like a boyfriend to you now, baby?” Amused, Chanelle pinches your cheek lightly. “Yeah, you totally do.”

“In fact…” Chanelle climbs onto your lap and places her hands on your shoulders, her crotch hovering dangerously close over yours. “You’re a very, very hot boyfriend to me right now.” A shiver runs down her spine as your warm exhale hits her skin. “Say, baby, am I attractive to you just like you are to me?” Chanelle asks, her eyes dark with want and need. “Yes, baby; you’re insanely attractive,” you say, slowly losing yourself in the intimacy.

“Then kiss me…”

Her eyes close as she leans closer towards you, and as soon as your lips meet hers, Chanelle sinks into your muscular frame, surrendering herself to your touch. “Gerald…” she says your name in a whisper. “Make love to me, please.” Chanelle presses her forehead against yours, her breaths short and rapid. “Please, Gerald, I-I’ll do anything as long as you’ll touch me.” She moans when a fleeting peck lands on her neck.

Chanelle reflexively wraps her legs tightly around your waist when you lift her into the air out of the blue. “Yes, Gerald, take me to the bedroom just like this.” As she’s being transported to the bedroom, Chanelle’s mind races with thoughts of feeling your hot skin against hers, and the prospect alone is making her more desperate and eager.

Chanelle gasps softly when her back lands on the soft mattress. “Chanelle, baby,” you whisper right into her ear. “I love you.” Tears pool in her eyes, blurring her vision. She has been dying to hear those three words from you. As simple as they are, those words carry a bigger, deeper meaning for her—a promise of something real, something everlasting. “I… love you too, Gerald,” she replies, her voice trembling from the emotions.

You reach for the first button of her pajama top, your fingers shaking slightly from the nerves. “Take your time, Gerald; we have all day.” A small smile spreads across your face. “Of course, baby,” you punctuate your words with a quick peck to her lips. One by one, her buttons become undone, thus allowing you to have a tantalizing peek of her skin.

When your palm grazes her bare belly, Chanelle’s breath hitches, her back arching instinctively. “Baby, fuck,” she mutters with a hint of impatience in her voice. “Why must you tease me this much—why can’t you just take me right away?” Your other hand cups her cheek, your thumb tracing small circles on her face. “I’m not teasing you, baby; I’m just basking in the intimacy.” Chanelle sighs as she rubs her face against your hand. “You’re right; I should be more patient,” she looks at you with a tender smile, “after all, you’re my beloved, not my fling.”

Chanelle places her hands on the waistband of your boxers, hooking her fingers on the inside. “I’m glad you didn’t have anything to wear—it’s way easier like this,” she quips. You chuckle, impressed by how she’s able to make such witty comments amidst the intimate nature of the encounter. “I suppose you deserve credit for your quick-thinking last night,” you reply with a sly grin.

The banter fades into the cool bedroom air, in its place blooms a more profound intimacy. “Gerald, can we…?” Without saying anything else, you quickly free yourself from the constraints of your boxers, and seeing you undress swiftly with intent makes Chanelle do the same, tossing her unbuttoned pajamas to the floor. Chanelle gasps when your bare skin meets hers. “Yes, finally—now, take me, Gerald,” she urges you, too eager to lose herself in the sauce of want only you can offer.

Chanelle’s eyes slam shut as your manhood slowly penetrates her, her breath rapid and ragged, as she savors the sensual stretch of her glistening, sensitive flesh. “G-Gerald—” Your lips capture hers in a passionate tangle, adding more intimacy to the hot encounter. “Mmph…” Chanelle moans into the kiss as your tongue wrestles with hers.

Your thrusts become deeper, stronger, your rhythm matching the frantic beat of your hearts. Her cries fill the room, echoing your own ragged breaths. Her nails dig into your back, urging you on, her body arching to meet your every move. You feel yourself getting closer to the edge, the world narrowing down to this moment, this connection, this impending explosive release.

“Chanelle…”

With a soft whisper of her name, you come undone, flooding her insides with your hot essence.

“I love you, Chanelle—I love you so, so much.”

Tears, plenty of them, flow down her temples, leaving a wet trail in their wake. “Chanelle, what’s wrong, baby? Did I hurt you?” you ask while your thumbs are busy wiping her tears. She shakes her head as she tries to force a smile, but her trembling lips betray her. “That was… my first time, Gerald, a-and… I’m so glad I did it with you.”

You pull her closer, your heart swelling with a mix of emotions: protectiveness, tenderness, and a profound sense of belonging. “Oh, baby, thank you for granting me this honor,” you say, your voice shaking because of the genuine feelings you have for her. “I… I will never take you for granted, Chanelle.” Chanelle wraps her limbs more tightly around your body, afraid that you’ll disappear if she lets go. “I-I love you, Gerald. I love you so much.”

-

The first rays of the morning sun fill the bedroom, providing a gentle, warm blanket for both of you. You slowly open your eyes, and the first thing your gaze lands on is your cock, the remnants of last night’s encounter still visible; the tip of your manhood is coated with crimson streaks, proof of Chanelle’s lost innocence.

You reach out to the sleeping beauty, your touch firm yet careful. “Chanelle, baby,” you call to her in a whisper. Chanelle slowly stirs awake at your touch, a smile tugging at her lips at the sight of you. “Good morning, my love,” she says, no longer showing a first-timer’s vulnerability. She shifts closer to you, pressing her face against your firm chest. “I wouldn’t have it any other way, Gerald.” You give her a gentle peck to the top of her head. “Nor would I, my dear love.”

In the quiet warmth, Chanelle knows that nothing, not even earthquakes, can shake the ground on which this love is built.

Hell, even if it crumbles, she knows that you will save her out of it, just like you have.

[cherrygirlfriend]

touchy subject III pairing: reader x exfiancé!rafe synopsis: seeing your ex-fiancé after four years. warnings: angst and comfort. fluff. mentions of miscarriage/stillbirth and DUI. wc: 2.7k part 3 and the last part of touchy subject! click here for part 1, click here for part 2 i really liked writing for them and honestly i'm considering occasionally writing blurbs for them and what their relationship would shape into, lmk if you'd be interested!! originally posted 11/28/2024

part I & part II

seeing you in front of that store felt like it might've killed rafe. the first face he fell in love with, the woman who'd left him with nothing but scars and an engagement ring. somehow, he still managed to stay alive.

but hearing you say his name in the soft voice he hadn't heard in over four years, the same one that you used to tell him you loved him every single night before your body went slack in his arms, that might have been the final blow.

"what are you doing here?" you managed to mutter, your hand instinctively going to your locket, squeezing it in your hand, and the gesture didn't go unnoticed by rafe.

"what's this?" rafe asked as the two of you laid in bed, his finger tracing the patterns on the heart-shaped locket resting on your chest, the one you'd worn around your neck for as long as he'd known you.

"this?" you asked, opening the locket, displaying two pictures; one of them was of you when you were a little girl, standing between your parents with a wide, toothy grin on your face, and the other was a picture of you and rafe, taken at midsummers. "i got this from my mom. it's a family heirloom of sorts. when she's born," you looked down at your stomach, "we've gotta get a picture taken of us three so i can put it here."

he let out a small chuckle, "i'm honored that you want me in your heart."

"i think you're always going to be in my heart," you rolled your eyes, "whether i want it or not."

"i'm here to see you. i thought that'd be obvious." rafe said without an ounce of emotion in his voice, the sound causing a shiver to run down your spine. grieving your daughter on what would've been her fifth birthday wasn't a moment you exactly wanted your ex to witness, but this was still rafe. the man you loved for so long, the only man you ever loved, the one you were going to marry, and this was still the house that was supposed to be your home.

so you stepped aside, pulling your cardigan closed as a way to close yourself off from the man as you walked further into the house, not daring yourself to look back at him, fearing the urge that still remained in your chest to just pull him close to you and be in his arms.

you heard the door close, pressing your eyes shut as you stood in front of the fireplace, your arms crossed in front of your chest as if defending yourself, the man's footsteps echoing in the room, "it's cold in here."

"the radiator's broken."

"can you just, at least look at me, or something?"

"do i have to?" you chuckled humorlessly, and when you felt his hand on your shoulder, it felt like the room got ten degrees colder, the man slowly turning you around to face him, and when you refused to look up at him, focusing on the baby blue sweater he was wearing, he brought his hand to your chin, gently lifting it up, just like he did every time he was about to kiss you.

"we need to talk."

if someone was to ask you what would be the most uncomfortable situation you had ever been in, this would be among the top 3, right after you got the 'birds and the bees' talk and the time you said your goodbyes to the same man now sitting beside you, the space between you two big enough to fit another person.

"why did you come back?" rafe asks, without even sparing you a glance. you decide to do the same, your gaze staying on the fire crackling in front of you.

"i don't know. a part of me thinks it's because i missed home."

"and the other part?"

missed us. missed her. "missed my mom, i guess."

your mother had driven you home from the hospital, insisting that she'd stay with you for the next few days; you still hadn't seen rafe. you couldn't face him, couldn't face the guilt you carried around for being the reason your daughter would be coming home in an urn.

she'd gone to the store for groceries, leaving you to sit on the couch you and rafe had picked out, staring at the engagement picture that hung above the fireplace.

you didn't know how it started, how every single vase ended up as nothing but shards of glass on the floor, how the coffee table had ended up as planks of wood, how your fists were bruised from beating them against the walls, your knees bloody from when you'd collapsed on the ground amongst all the glass.

"do you know what day it is?" rafe asked with a weak voice, and you could hear him try to swallow down the emotion crawling up his throat.

his question made you want to let out a small, humorless laugh. you don't know how you could ever forget. "of course." the day i killed her.

rafe stood up, running his hand over his chin before trailing over the short strands of hair on his head, "why did you do it?" he looked to you. "why did you leave?"

"i had no reason to stay." you say emotionlessly, your fingers intertwined as you kept your eyes on them as if you were praying.

"you had me. you would've had me if you just let me be there."

"rafe, i killed our daughter."

"what-"

"i'm the reason our daughter isn't here. i'm the reason she doesn't exist. i'm the reason that today isn't only her fifth birthday, but also the fifth anniversary of her death."

rafe kneeled down in front of you, his hands cupping your cheeks, not caring if it made you uncomfortable, or that this was the first time he'd properly touched you in over four years, the only thing that mattered to him was that you listened.

"you did not kill our daughter."

"i did."

"no." he scoffed, "you aren't the reason she's dead. the reason is the drunken asshole who drove at you. you loved her with your entire being, with everything you had, even before she was born. you would've been the most amazing mother in the world. don't you dare blame yourself for something you had zero control over."

"i shouldn't have driven in that weather. i knew it was gonna be raining, that the roads would be slippery-"

"no." rafe said sternly, "look at me."

your eyes moved to look into rafe's steel-blue ones, shimmering with unshed tears, his jaw clenched, and only then did you realize that he was cupping your face in his hands, his touch somehow managing to make you feel warm even in the cold apartment.

"i won't have you blame yourself for something you had no fuckin' control over. evelyn was so wanted, by both of us. she would've been so loved. we would've done anything to protect her, and to keep her safe. if any fucker even thought about hurting her, i would've made sure they'd regret ever being born. but you are not to blame for her not being here."

rafe's hands moved from your cheeks to your hands, the man instead taking your clenched fists into his, letting out a small sniffle, and when he pressed his eyes closed and let out a sigh, a tear rolled down his cheek.

"yeah, you could've not driven in the rain. but i should've been the one to drive you to your mom's, you were eight months along, an insane man would make you drive yourself, or i should've made sure you got home before it was dark, or i should've picked you up myself. there are so many things we could've done differently, but that doesn't mean that either of us is to blame for it."

"i spent so long blaming myself for what happened, but not even for a moment did i blame you. you did everything to keep her safe, and i know it, and i'm sure that she knows it too. you loved her more than anything, and i won't let some drunk driving idiot make you feel like you did anything wrong."

slowly, you opened your fists, half-moon prints on the palms on your hands caused by your nails, and without even realizing, tears had been rolling down your eyes the entire time that rafe had been speaking, the man standing up and pressing a kiss on your forehead that felt like it burnt and would leave a mark that'd be there forever, before he settled down next to you.

a strand of hair was stuck on your cheek, almost glued on there by the tears you shed, the blonde man tugging it behind your ear, his eyes still on you, his hands still cupping yours.

"i don't blame you for what happened, nor do i blame you for pushing me away. but i wish you would've let me in, to be there for you, instead of leaving. so we could've grieved her together."

"i think we should break up, rafe."

"what?" rafe turned to look at you; this wasn't what he had been expecting to hear after two months of silence, "if this is about the baby-"

"i can't do it anymore." you closed your eyes, letting a tear run down your cheek, "i need to leave. start over."

you turned your head to look at him, his words feeling like a weight had been lifted off your shoulders, and even though you tried to find it, there was nothing in his eyes that said that he was lying.

"you don't blame me for any of it?"

your voice was weak and feeble, as if a part of you was expecting him to tell you that he did, but when he pulled you into his embrace, he told you the truth in the best way he knew how to: without saying a single word.

you didn't know how long you had been in rafe's arms; it felt like hours, while also feeling like the moment had lasted mere seconds, like you two lived in your own bubble. it felt like the last four years hadn't happened, like you had never left.

but when he pulled away from the embrace and looked down at his watch, letting out a sigh, you knew what was coming. the bubble burst.

"i should probably get going." rafe let out an exasperated sigh and rubbed the bridge of his nose before starting to get up off the couch, stretching his long limbs.

"yeah, yeah." you said softly, clearing your throat, trying to act like nothing had happened, like you hadn't gone through every memory you shared while he was just holding you to comfort you, "your girlfriend's probably waiting for you."

rafe stopped in his tracks, turning to look down at you, "girlfriend?"

"shit," you chuckle softly, fidgeting with your hands and chewing on your lower lip, "i guess she's your fiancée, now."

he sat down on the couch next to you while you simply avoided his gaze, not wanting him to read everything you were feeling like he so often seemed to do, but your attempt was unsuccessful, the man bringing his hand to your chin and gently turning your head so you were forced to look at him, his brows slightly furrowed while he looked at you pointedly.

"what girlfriend, or fiancée?"

you didn't know if rafe was acting stupid, or if he was genuinely confused, but you could still remember the woman with him at the jewelry store, the woman who had managed to make him smile, whose back rafe placed his hand on.

"you know," you clear your throat, taking his hand off your chin and turning your head away from him, not wanting him to see the tears brimming in your eyes as you thought about him waiting at the aisle for another woman, "the woman at the jewelry store."

rafe let out a soft laugh, and when you turned your head, facing him, he was nearly keeling over in laughter, his head in his hands.

"what?"

"that-" rafe said inbetween laughs, "that wasn't my girlfriend."

"what?" you mumbled softly, your brows furrowing, "what do you mean, rafe?"

"sorry-" he continued laughing for a while only to be stopped by a soft smack you delivered to his shoulder, before the man took a deep breath, looking at you with a small smile gracing his lips, a sight that still got your heart to flutter, "that wasn't my girlfriend, or my fiancée."

"then... who was she?"

"that was," rafe let out another chuckle as if you had said something foolish, taking one of your hands in his and intertwining your fingers, "wheezie's girlfriend."

you tried processing the words that had left his lips, but no matter what, they didn't seem to make since. "why were you in a jewelry store together? wheezie's only like-"

"wheezie's nineteen." rafe shook his head, "her girlfriend, lucy, asked me to help her pick out a ring. sarah was supposed to go with her, but she had some preschool stuff to deal with relating to jack, so i got stuck with that duty…"

"isn't nineteen a bit... young?"

"it is. but you remember how young we were when we got engaged? or sarah?" a fond smile took over rafe's lips as he turned to look at the fire that was slowly burning out, letting the next words out in a hushed tone. "guess it runs in the family."

"guess so." you say, biting down on your lip, turning to look at the fire with him, your cheeks warm as you felt like an idiot for your assumption.

"i still haven't moved on." rafe said, letting out a breath, "i don't know if i can. i don't think i even want to." you turned to look back at one another at the same time, both of you seeing the same melancholy in the other one's eyes, "there's no one i would ever want to be with other than you."

you took a deep breath, his words ringing through your head as you looked at him, a damp trail running down his cheek was still visible from the tears he had shed, and you took a deep breath, making a decision that you knew would impact the rest of your life.

"me neither, rafe."

you brought your hand to his cheek and felt the tear he had shed under your touch, pulling his face to meet yours until your lips clashed, feeling the exact same that it did four years ago, making you wonder how you ever let it go.

SIX MONTHS LATER...

you laid on a blanket in the middle of a field of sunflowers, your arms crossed behind your head and your eyes pressed closed, letting the sun beam down your face, warming you up as your bare feet were being tickled by blades of grass.

your daydreaming was interrupted by the sound of footsteps, and you opened one of your eyes to see rafe stumble through the long flowers into the small clearing you'd found, a small chuckle leaving your lips.

"don't laugh at me." he scolded, shaking his head as he landed on the blanket next to you, letting out a soft grunt.

"why not?" you asked, sticking your tongue out at him, your boyfriend gasping in feigned offence, about to quip back at you, only to be stopped by the small, chaste peck you pressed on his lips, even the small display of affection managing to leave him speechless.

as he settled down next to you, you smiled while looking up at the sky, white clouds covering a part of the beautiful icy blue nothingness that was so much like rafe's eyes, your thoughts on her. you took rafe's hand in yours, keeping your eyes trained up while you let yourselves just exist together.

"you're always going to be in my heart, evelyn louise cameron." you said softly as you traced the patterns on your locket, rafe turning his head to look at you, a somber expression on his face as he pressed a gentle kiss on your forehead.

"yeah, she will. and neither of us will ever forget her."

[16wolke11]

Every Little Thing - Oscar Pistri

A/N Comforting Oscar after the Australian GP

WORDS: 1350

The air around me is thick with tension, the crowd around the circuit roaring with excitement. The cars line up at the start and finish line, and the Australian Grand Prix is about to start. My heart is pounding, fingers fiddling with each other, while my eyes are firmly focused on the orange car with the 81 on it. Today is special, not only because it's Oscar's home race, but also because I'm attending a Grand Prix for the first time. I am more than nervous, even though I'm not even racing. Surrounded by Oscar's family, I watch the formation lap, needing to suppress a whine when the first driver is out before the race even starts.

When the lights finally go out and the next drivers end their race early, I flinch. Every time I see a car wiggle on track, struggling to keep traction, my heart sinks. This weather is a mess, and so is the race. Rookies and experienced drivers struggle to keep their cars on track, and at one point, I just wish for it to be over.

It's good for my pulse that McLaren manages to pull away, putting them in a safe distance from their rivals, until I remember that, even though Oscar and Lando are teammates, they are still rivals on track as well. Oscar's first slip-up makes his side of the garage groan, and my heart almost drops. But he manages to continue just fine, gets past Verstappen again, and everything seems to be going well for McLaren until it doesn't.

"Noo," Nicole and others around me yell when Oscar slips off track and ends up planted in the grass. Everyone thinks he's out of the race, but Oscar is already trying to reverse out of the patch and reach the asphalt again.

"Come on, Oscar," I whisper, hoping that he will somehow manage to get out of the grass. He steers carefully, and the crowd erupts with cheers when he brings his car back on track and makes his way to the garage to get his damaged tyres changed.

"At least he can continue," his mother mutters beside me not happy with the amount of struggle her son is having today and I'm sure she would have preferred for him to pick a different job. A less stressful one.

"He will be so disappointed," I sigh, knowing Oscar tends to be hard on himself, and I try to figure out what I can do to help him feel better.

The race continues, and while Lando easily manages to stay in front, Oscar makes his way through the rest of the grid, overtakes some of them, and ends up in the points. Something I'm proud of, while he's probably beating himself up already.

"He did good," Nicole decides, and I nod. At least we're proud of what Oscar did today. It might not be what he imagined his home race to be, but he did a great job recovering after slipping off the track.

"I know that he's the one thinking otherwise," I tell Nicole my thoughts, and she agrees, knowing how hard her son can be on himself. We part ways, knowing it will take some time until Oscar returns, but when he doesn't appear in his motorhome, even after the podium ceremony, I decide to search for him.

I walk around the rainy paddock, looking between the different hospitals, until I make my way back to the garage. Maybe he's with the team? I spot him almost immediately, even though he's kind of hiding himself away. He sits between a wall and the counters where his helmet is stored before a race. Oscar looks like he's deep in his thoughts, and I sigh softly, time to cheer him up.

"Hey," I mutter, approaching him slowly, waiting for him to look up and acknowledge that I'm there before I crouch to his height. Oscar almost immediately wraps his arms around me, pulling me against his chest, and I hug him tightly, trying to show him that I'm there, that everything is okay, and that he doesn't need to feel down. His grip around me tightens before a soft sigh leaves his lips.

"Sorry I didn't win or even get a podium for you," Oscar apologizes, and I pull my head back to be able to look at him. He avoids my gaze, but I will not let him do this. Not let himself shame his performance when there is nothing to be ashamed of.

"I'm still proud of you," I whisper, fingertips tracing his cheek until his eyes meet mine. There is nothing left of the excited glimmer he had the days before the race; now they are just empty.

"There's nothing to be proud of," Oscar huffs and lets his arms fall to his side, looking to the side, refusing to let me read his expressions.

"Don't say that!" I say sternly, and maybe my voice sounds a bit harsh because Oscar's eyes are back on me quickly. I rarely get loud, but I feel like Oscar must understand this.

"You fought back when everyone thought you were out of the race," I mutter, recalling the moment he was in the grass, people thinking he was another one out of the race, but then he managed to get back on track and put on a hell of a show.

"You swallowed it and raced your heart out to get points," I remind him that he did not do nothing but managed to do something others couldn't. He saved his car and even made it back into the points.

"This is not nothing," I end my little speech, and I can see a soft smile tugging at the corners of Oscar's lips.

"Why are you always right?" he asks, tilting his head slightly to the side, and I smile, knowing I managed to get him out of his downward spiral.

"To remind the little pessimist inside you to stop being so harsh on yourself," I tap my fingers against his heart, knowing that it is one thing he struggles with—being happy with what he's achieving and not listening to the pessimistic tugs in his heart and head.

"Every little thing about you makes me fall in love more and more," Oscar sighs, and my heart stumbles. Even though we've been in a relationship for a while now, we rarely talk about the deeper feelings between us.

"Osc," I mumble, hands finding his to intertwine them with each other.

"You know I love you, no matter how you're doing at a race?" I ask him, and Oscar's eyes widen in surprise.

"Wait, you love me?" he whispers, and I blush a little bit, realizing that I just said that out loud, but it's nothing but the truth.

"Of course, I love you," I laugh softly before adding, a little less seriously, "Going to a country full of spiders and other scary stuff isn't something I would do for anyone."

Oscar grins before locking his eyes straight with mine.

"I love you," he whispers, sharing it just between him and me, making the smile on my lips get wider.

"Love you too," I say again, and saying it for a second time makes it even more real. Oscar places one hand on my cheek, thumb brushing over it softly before he pulls me in for a kiss. It's not hectic, just a sweet touch to seal the words we just told each other, and I snuggle against his chest, not ready to face the world again.

"Maybe this day isn't the worst," Oscar says after a few minutes of holding me close, and I scoff.

"Charming," my voice is full of sarcasm, hinting that he's kind of ruining the sweet moment between us.

Oscar's chest rumbles with laughter. "You love it," he says, referring to the fact that his dry act is usually something I like about him.

"Can't deny that" I grin and snuggle back into his chest, knowing that those are the little things that make our relationship worth it.

[kayhi808]

First crush ask…

Has Miss Abby been to the beach? I’m thinking Bucky takes her and Mama on holiday somewhere warm and cashes in awe of the waves and so much sand.

But maybe she’s also worried about papas arm as well, or something else even.

🩵🩵

Oooh, I like this one! I'm bringing this little family to my island. Bucky is treating you and your baby to a Hawai'i vacation.

Abby starts to take off in a run, but your quick reflexes snag her arm. She lets out a scream, "No, Mama!" She continues to struggle, fighting to escape to the water.

"Abigail! Stop it. You need to put on sunscreen and your floaties. Do you want to drown?"

"I needs to shims!" Growling to be set free.

Peeling off his shirt, Bucky throws it onto one of the rented lounge chairs the resort provided to you. Ducking under the umbrella to look Abby in the eyes, "Or we can just go back home, and you don't get to swim at all," giving her a smirk & a careless shrug.

That stops Abby's struggling, but a frown remains on her face. "C'mere," pulling her close to you and start applying sunscreen.

You and Bucky were able to carve out some time off together and Bucky decided you all needed a family vacation. The next thing you know, Bucky booked a trip to Hawai'i. It has a Disney resort on the west side of the island of Oahu, Aulani. You'll be away from the hustle of Waikiki and the city, to hopefully get some true relaxation. Or as much as you can with a wild Abigail on your hands just dying to get into the ocean.

Not wanting Abby to be in pain first thing on vacation, you slather on the sunscreen. You'd be set for the day at the beach if Abby would stop squirming. "Mama, this sticky and stinky."

"Stop complaining." You stick her in her floaties and start applying sunscreen to yourself. Abby darts off again but Bucky scoops her up making her scream. "Abigail!"

Throwing her head back, "I need to SHIMS!"

"You need to wait for me & Mama. Do you want us sunburned?"

Frowning, "No." Bucky kisses her cheek and sets her down and she adds, "But pwease hurries up."

You and Bucky quickly get each other's back and hard to reach spots under Abby's winter soldier glare. Arms akimbo. Foot tapping. She's such a brat sometimes. Holding out your hand to her, "Ok, let's go!" She grabs your hand, squealing as you both run down to the ocean's edge. This isn't grey/green waters of Coney Island or the Jersey Shore. Crystal clear water meets you, cool and refreshing. Abby runs until she full body plops into the water.

She quickly stands, rubbing her face, "Mama!" She starts sputtering and spitting. You pick her up trying to wipe the water off her face. "It taste junk!"

Laughing, "I know! Keep your mouth closed. Your eyes too. The salty water is going to burn. This isn't like the pool.

Bucky comes running over,"Here Abby Baby, put these on so the water doesn't get in your eyes." You laugh at the ridiculously pink sparkly goggles.

"When did you get that?!"

Shrugging, "Before we left." He's so sweet you give him a kiss.

******

See the line where the sky meets the sea

It calls me

And no one knows how far it goes

If the wind in my sail on the sea stays behind me

One day I'll know

If I go, there no telling how far I'll go

Floating on your back, splashing around, building sandcastles, you and Abby sing Moana's song on repeat. Out of tune, but wholeheartedly. Abby spent the day swimming and playing with you and Bucky. She kept an eye out for "Pudge" the fish. If she found him Bucky said he'd buy her a sandwich so she could feed him.

Abby is not a fan of sand. It sticks to her body and hands and gets into the worst places. "It so much dirt Mama!" She waddles up to you and Bucky from her toys at the shore.

Bucky smiles, " It's sand, not dirt."

"I tinks it gots in my pants." She gives a little shimmy. "I don't wikes it!" You laugh, scooping her up and carrying her back into the ocean. You hold her with one arm while trying to empty out her swim bottom with the other. "Mama," she gasps, "my butts is out!"

Looking around, "No one can see. Do you want sand in your pants?" She giggles at that & shakes her head. "Ok then." You give her a little shake & adjust her bottom, "You should be fine until we get back to the hotel and take a bath." You smack her bottom as she runs back to the chairs with Bucky. "Mama had my butts out!"

Bucky cracks up, "What??"

"We shook out the sand in her bottom."

Abby wiggles her bottom, "I thought the fishies would bite my tushie!"

*****

The air was warm and balmy as you stepped out onto the lawn. You see the sun dipping below the palm trees and you can imagine the beautiful sunset you'll get tonight. You and Abby are dressed in sundresses. The weather being so much warmer than New York. There's live music being played as you make you way to the luau grounds. You and Bucky get kukui nut and shell leis upon arrival. Abby got the choice of a necklace with Maui's fishhook or a shell lei. She was excited to get the necklace.

"I thought you didn't like Maui for saying Pu'a was boat snack?" Abby pretends not to hear you as she examines her new necklace. Feeling a little guilty knowing Pu'a is propped up against her pillow back in the room.

There were so many demonstrations prior to dinner. You were able to leisurely wander from station to station. Abby found a temporary tattoo station, which she needed one. "Mama, I need one. Pwease!" How could you say no?

Then she found the lei making stand. She made a little orchid wristlet. The colors were so vibrant.

She also wanted a ukulele after taking a quick lesson. You said you'd think about it, but by the look on Bucky's face, you knew he was bringing a ukulele home.

By that time, Moana made an appearance inviting everyone to dinner. Abby squealed, jumping up and down, "Mama, lookit! That's Moana! She's here!!" Bucky grabs Abby, throwing her up on his shoulders so she can wave and get Moana's attention. Abby insisted Moana waves directly at her.

Once dinner and dessert was completed, the evening show started.it was not overly Disney or cheesy. Moana, Minnie and Mickey made an appearance, which thrilled Abby. The show was very educational, the history of the land was told through beautiful dance and song. Abby lost her mind when they invited the children to gather in front of the stage to participate in the dance. Covering her mouth to cover a gasp, "Oh Mama! Cans I go?"

"Get up there! Absolutely!"

Once she was up there, she kept waving to you and Bucky. You also saw the little furrows on her brow trying to learn the dance. Your baby is so adorable. Bucky kept inching closer to get pictures and videos of Abby dancing the hula. He had to send it back for the team to see. Just like a proud father would.

The evening ended with the famous fire dance, telling the story of how Maui fought with the Sun God, Kāne. Abby was cheering and clapping so hard her palms were bright pink and you thought her voice would be hoarse the following morning. This trip was going to be one she never forgets. Bucky keeps bringing magic into your lives. Giving you a life you never thought imaginable.

@waywardhunter95 @rebeccapineapple @ordelixx @onceithough @thezombieprostitute @ilovetaquitosmmmm @julvrs @unax @s-a-v-a-n-a-34 @winterslove1917 @mrs-bucky-barnes-73 @mrsnikstan @hisredheadedgoddess28 @itsteambarnes @otterlycanadian @purplecolordeer @buckitostan @littleredwolf @mcucatlady @silas-aeiou @hzdhrtss @florie1 @thecubanator2 @enchantedbarnes @selella @fireeyes-on-teller-dixon-grimes @cjand10 @pancake-05 @ozwriterchick @crazyunsexycool @baw1066 @nommingonfood @jvanilly

[luuvprincess]

✰࿎5࿎✰

Joshua

I walked down the hall towards Cece's room. I haven't spoken or seen her in 2 days she has the weekend off and spent time with her family in New York. I knocked on her door waiting for her to open it up.

"Damn girl hurry up." I said as continued to knock, eventually the door open. She had her robe on showing a little cleavage, she hair was in slick back bun with her glasses on. "What took you so long?" I asked. She stepped aside letting me in even just getting out of bed she still beautiful.

"Why are you so loud Jey?" She asked mumbling rubbing her eye. I sucked my teeth and sighed. She climbed back into her bed. "What time did you get in?" I asked.

"Like 5." She mumbled.

"Damn baby, you wanna cuddle?" I asked. She nodded her head. I kicked my shoes off and took my shirt off and I climbed into bed with her. "Just for a little set timer for 45mins." She said.

"Ma if you need more than 45mins to we can stay as long as you need." I tell her as I wrapped my arms around her pulling her closer.

"No babe you have a tight schedule today." She said resting her cheek on my chest. "How about this I'll go but you stay behind and sleep in a little and get some rest." I proposed.

The room went silent until I heard little snoring coming from her. I looked down seeing she definitely knocked out. I chuckled kissing her forehead.

1 hour later

"Hey Jey your phone is blowing up over here." My cousin Nia says as I was signing pictures . "Bring it over here." I tell her. She walks up over with my I take it to her seeing it was Sierra. I laughed shaking my head.

(5) iMessages from Little mama😻

Little Mama 😻

Little Mama 😻: JOSHUA!!!

Little Mama 😻: I told you to set a alarm!

Little Mama 😻: WHY DIDNT YOU SET THE ALARM JOSHUA!!!

Little Mama😻: your a asshole seriously 😒

Little Mama 😻: ughhh please tell me you at least made it on time

DaddyJucey 💋; yea I made it ma I'm signing right now

Little Mama 😻: Mhmm I'll see you in a little

DaddyJucey 💋: I hope you have a better attitude when you come up over here little mama

I finished signing everything just when she arrived I acted like I didn't see her, until she walked up to the table. "Hey." I said. "Joshua." She said folding her arms. Seeing she still had a attitude.I got up from my seat pushing it in "C'mere." I said taking her to a empty room.

"Didn't I tell you to have a better attitude coming over here?" I asked her. She groaned throwing her head back. "Exactly, so why you ain't fix it?" I asked.

"Boy move today is not the day for your bs." She said pushing me back slightly.

"Baby I'm tryna give you the benefit of the doubt and not fuck the shit out of you." I tell her. She rolled her eyes.

"Josh you were supposed to set the alarm so I could wake up." She says with a little base in her voice. I was little taken back by her tone. "I was doing you a favor baby I know that you work your ass off all the time, I just wanted my beautiful lady to get some good sleep, knowing you just got in from a flight."

We stared at each other not saying a word. "Ughh I blame you for why I'm so cranky." She said. I laughed pulling her in for a hug. "Nah you just a big ass baby that needs a little love and affection." I said kissing her resting our forehead together.

"You forgive me bae?" She asked.

"You can make it up to me and we got ourselves a deal." I tell her.

"Okay I gotchu later big daddy, but right now you got a lot of pictures to take so let's get back out there." She said pulling away. I gave her a love tap on the ass before opening the door for her. "You got a little something on your lip, sir." She said. I wiped my lip shaking my head evertime we kiss she leaves her lip gloss on my lips or my cheek.

As we were walking back to the front I could hear fans chanting my name. I clapped my hands together feeling excited. "You hear that ma?" I asked looking at Cece.

"Get out there and do your thing." She said. I gave her a quick little kiss catching her off guard running off out there.

Sierranicole 3mins ago

Next day

Sierra

"C'mon mama 5 more." Jey said. I whined tired as hell. Today we started our day off early and decided to hit the gym before Monday night raw. "Hey you ask for this mama."

"Yea I ask you to assist me not be my personal trainer and be aggy." I said. It was day 3 of my workout and I had do 3 sets of 12 shoulders presses and I had I known Joshua was gonna be so aggy about how I do things then I would have never ask him.

He took my phone away so now I can't listen to music. He's says it's a distraction from my work-out that I keep stopping to be on my phone with headphones in himself.

"Baby just finish so you can move on to the next and final exercise." He said slapping my ass. I rolled my eyes finishing my sets. "There you go pretty mama." He says after I finished my last set.

"Can I have my phone back?" I asked looking at him through the mirror as he was typing on his phone.

"Whatchu say?" He asked looking up at me.

"Joshua that's not fair your literally on your phone." I complained. He looked at me as he walked up behind me. "I'm not the one working out though mama you are." He said. I rolled my eyes again mumbling under my breath. I wanted to say he needed to be working out but he's already in shape.

"I'm tired baby." I said pouting hoping he would let me skip this last one. "Awe you are mama?" He asked kissing my cheek I nodded my head. "To bad finish girl you almost done."

"Joshhh!" I whined. "Your being mean to me." I said.

"Your just being lazy, I bet you if it was this dick you wouldn't wanna stop." He said. I gasped turning red thank god we're the only ones in here. "Mhmm c'mon finish so we go babygirl." He said. I sighed and quickly got this shit done.

After we finished up we collected our things, and went back to the hotel shower and took a nap before we went to the stadium.

First thing Jey did was go talk with Hunter about what he was doing tonight, while they talked in the office I sat outside and waited.

Jey then walked out about 10mins later. "Now we needa go to the training room so I could get my ankles taped up." He said. I stood up following him to the training room. 

"Your quiet." He says as the trainer was wrapping up his left ankle. "I'm just tired as hell this week my sleep schedule as been a little messy this past week." I tell him.

"Was the weekend not enough time off?" He asked.

"It problem would have been if I wasn't with my family we did all kinds of activities when I got there and damn nearly went broke spoiling my mom sister and my nieces." I tell him.

"How you think you be having me?" He asked. "You choose to do it, just like I choose to spend all my money on my family." I said. He chuckled having nothing to say.

The door opens and this girl walked and immediately you can feel tension in the room. "Hey Jey." She said. I looked at Jey to see what he was gonna say but he just waved at her. "Oh you can't talk now?" She asked tilting her head.

Oh hell no she not talking to him like that

"Excuse you why you talking to him like that?" I asked. She look at me like I had four heads. "I'm talking to you girl." I said.

"Sierra." Jey grunted. I looked at him for a split second then back her. "Hello I'm waiting for a answer." I said.

"Don't answer her Jaida." He says to her.

"Ain't you his assistant?" Jaida asked.

"Why is that any of your business?" I asked. "Oh okay then, anyways Jey how you been?" She says.

"Who you ta-sierra don't you say another word, we done here Kev?" Jey asked the trainer cutting me off. Kevin nods his head Jey gets up off the bench and it pissed me off that he's allowing her to speak to me like that. "Let's go now." He said as he held door open. I glanced at her one more time before walking out the room.

I feel Jey grab me but I quickly pulled my arm away. "Leave me alone Joshua."

"Nah Sierra you don't get to be mad at about this shit, you started that shit." He says.

"Because she was talking to you crazy, but fuck all that who the fuck is she? And you let talk to me like that?" I asked.

"You start it Sierra." He agured "It doesn't matter. I'm your girl right? You let everyone know I'm your girl so why you couldn't you let that bitch know?" I asked.

"Mane Sierra ion got time for this shit uce. At the end of the day you started that shit you could have cost me my job starting shit, matter fact just go back to the hotel I'll deal with you later." He said.

"I'll do you a better favor and book my flight back to Florida." I said walking away before he could speak, I opened my phone booking the next flight back to Florida.

Tag List🏷️💗 : @uceyliyahh @mselenalovebug @theusotwinzcom @isabella-2025 @dstark-0706

@4milly @zillasvilla @charmed-dreamssss @sheaabuttaababyy

Chapter 6 coming soon 👀

Please excuse any typos or misspelling but let me know if yall enjoyed this chapter wanted to give it a little spice.

[usedpidemo]

March Update - the end...?

Hi everyone, π here! 

Hope everyone has a wonderful start to their year already and is doing well. 🙂

This update comes from rather uncertain times right now, so please bear with me.

—————

Commissions Update:

Request Link

I’ve gotten a handful of inquiries asking me for fics in the high 20 to 30k word count range, and while not a single deal has been put to paper, it does mean there is a demand, so I have introduced 3 new commission tiers to cater to said requests. So for those of you wanting me to write a grandiose epic, here's your opportunity! Please bear mind that many of my rules when commissioning a fic still apply, so please read this post first and message me privately before ordering.

With that said, I have the executive decision to adjust pricing to the current available tiers. Previously ordered commissions prior to the change will not be affected in any way. I understand that the price jump might seem a bit much, but please understand that I’m also juggling with plenty of stuff right now—from college to IRL stuff in-between writing fics. There’s a lot of commitment into putting out a work, so please understand. I’m trying my best to stay sane in the meantime.

And speaking of personal issues—

The future of this account:

I wish I could tell you that everything’s fine on our side, but the reality is far grimmer than I’d like you to believe.

The family shop we’ve been running for almost 3 years closed down back in late February. The reasoning being that there’s a big renovation of the mall our shop is based in, specifically a parking and walkway extension connecting the current shopping mall with a new one that will open sometime in 2028-2029. Previously they closed off the parking, now they've decided to close off the entire stretch where our shop lies in as well. So yes, the corporate overlords forced us out of a job and livelihood with no compensation whatsoever. 

This has put us in a severe financial bind. We’re currently going through a bit of a corporate and brand restructuring, already in talks about setting up shop elsewhere. But the lack of a monthly income has begun to chip heavily into our monthly utilities and expenses. Basic necessities seem like a huge expense. Already lost electricity and water twice because we couldn’t pay on time. We’re literally just surviving day to day, only enough to get by, but just barely. Thank God we’re all perfectly healthy, but I can only imagine having to bear medical expenses as well.

In short, worst case scenario, we get financially buried, and this account is killed in the process. Not because I wanted to leave or retire—far from it—but because of circumstances beyond our control. It would be a damn shame because even four years on, I still really love writing and in a way, it’s become a lifeline for me. Met so many friends, got to experience my first events, and made unforgettable memories that I would gladly redo in another lifetime when given the chance. It may not seem apparent, given our current predicament, I’m barely hanging on—emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. It's hard to remain positive when all you see around you is darkness and uncertainty.

But I’m not gonna give up. Any little thing I can provide for my family, I’ll do the best I can. I know this is only temporary, a minor setback, but faith needs some action as well.

Of course, I also understand that most of you are probably reading me because it’s entertainment and a form of escape from your own respective troubles, so I won’t beg, force you to feel sorry for us, or paywall my content. Anything I write and release publicly will remain freely available in some capacity, but I also have to look out for myself during these uncertain times. I may consider doing a monthly based subscription/memberships where I can chat with you through a private Discord and give previews to upcoming work, but I don’t know if that’s worth anything, so commissions will make do for now. But if you feel obliged and compelled, any amount/form of donation will be graciously accepted. Hell, even a reblog or repost to spread the word is more than enough to help greatly.

To leave on a more positive note, I should have two releases in the coming weeks, so please look forward to that. If it hasn’t been made any clear, your continuous support is one of the few positive things I can celebrate right now, and I sincerely appreciate each and every one of you. Thank you for sticking through both great and hard times.

With grace,

Peter / π

[nyxanarchy]

SOTR SPOILERS

Anyway, this book made a hole in my chest so I need to talk to someone about the things that made the most impact on me. (I will also post my favourite parts in another post)

-Lenore Dove being Maude Ivory's daughter (probably).

-The fact that Maude Ivory, Lucy Gray and Lenore Dove died as a consequence of their love.

-The birds imagery. Doves, canaries, mockinjay.

-Burdock and Asterid. The fact that Burdock saved Ortho. The fact that if Haymitch didn't drive Burdock away he probably would have been an uncle for Katniss. Everything about their names (Burdocks being a "useful" plant, like Katniss, Asterid and Primrose being flowers.)

-The fact that while we see Katniss in Haymitch, he saw her first and foremost as Louella.

-The reaping being rigged. He was almost free. All of his games were avoidable. He could almost have a "normal life".

-Honestly everything about Maysilee and Merrilee, when she asked if she was always going to be a twin I almost cried. (My sister died not too long ago so this hit me like a train)

-The fact Louella died before the games???? And they didn't even bother telling her family?? Is her body still in the capitol? Did they give her body back?

-my god Ampert. They sent beete's boy to die, to punish him. And he knew he wasn't going to come back, that he could never save him.

-President Snow projecting his insecurities into Haymitch. That man Is fucking obsessed with Lucy Gray still. I hope seeing Katniss singing covey's songs gave him an aneurysm.

-Wyatt protecting Lou Lou even tho he knew he was gonna die. He knew it, because he is so good at calculating odds. We are led to believe he will use this skill to survive, and instead...

-When Haymitch stole Louella's body, thinking about the little bird Lenore Dove found. That almost drove me insane.

-Haymitch almost getting a "decent" ending with Lenore Dove, just to watch her die poisoned from something he thought was his own.

-Haymitch going to her house in the middle of the night like a madman asking where she is

-haymitch thinking Merrilee is Maysilee

-The covey's graves. That almost took me out.

-Loulou and Maysilee dying in his arms. Foul play honestly.

-THE FACT THAT HIS STORY IS REWRITTEN, AND NO ONE KNOWS WHAT HE REALLY DID DURING HIS GAMES.

-Effie being nice and kind to him, but absolutely detached from reality, the propaganda really did a number on her.

-Ma and Sid dying litterally the evening he came back

-Katniss being the one that procures him the geese's eggs.

[womanofwords]

Everybody's Favourite (Part 3)

Over the next few days, you and Penguin get really close. Penguin teaches you the ins and outs of business: branding, advertising, pricing. You encourage Penguin to invest in something that people could go to during the day. "Maybe an ice cream place or coffee," you mused. "You can name it whatever you want."

Penguin looked at you with glee. "I like the way you think. Helps me be less shadowy."

Word spread about the kidnapping scarily fast. "Oswald, are the rumours true? Do you really have one of the Wayne kids here?" the Riddler asked, dropping by.

"Yes, Y/N Wayne. I've been trying to get their idiot father to believe that they're in my custody, but no dice." Penguin dropped his voice to a terrified whisper. "Half of my collection has been organised in five hours! Do you have any idea how large my collection is?"

"Yeesh. Do they know that Bruce Wayne is being about as useful as a map drawn in invisible ink?"

"They must have some clue. They were supposed to have been gone by now, but they're still here. They even made a joke about their family wouldn't notice that they were gone."

Penguin spluttered as he gestured at you. You were asleep in a pile of blankets in lieu of a bed. "How would they not know that this little angel was gone?"

"Maybe they really don't care. Not sure how they could come to that conclusion." Riddler looked at you with a small smile. "You know, I have a bet that you can keep Y/N here for two weeks straight without acting suspiciously or trying to hide them and even continuing to ask for ransom money, and they won't do a thing."

"Does the two weeks start now or from the day of the kidnapping? Because they've already been here for four days."

"From the day of the kidnapping. I'm not a monster. Also, what do you want if you win?"

"I'll cross that bridge when we get to it. Until then, I'm ordering more Indian food. I don't know how to cook."

(PAUSE)

Time went on, and more of Batman's rogues gallery paid a visit to the captive Wayne child as if it were a baby shower.

Two-Face was the first to arrive. "You can't be serious. Brucie Wayne didn't want to collect his child? Didn't you tell him?"

"We sent messengers, we called him, we sent stuff in the mail, he just thinks it's a prank." Penguin threw his hands up with exasperation. "Nothing against the little dove, but this is a little longer than I thought."

"I'll tell him," Dent volunteered. "Me and him go way back. Once he knows that it's serious, he'll arrive with something. Either the bat or the ransom, but something."

"Go ahead, but you're gonna lose me a bet," Riddler said nonchalantly.

"What's happening?" you asked.

"We're . . . having some difficulties contacting your family, dollface," Two-Face said. "They're not taking this very seriously."

"They don't take me very seriously," you snarked. "It's not you, it's me. I'm not exactly on the list of people they're concerned about. Titus ranks higher than me."

"Is Titus another kid?" Riddler asked. "No offence, but he has so many."

"None taken, Riddler. Titus is Damian Wayne's dog." You stretched and straightened out your clothes. "You're going to have to put up with me for a while longer. Also, do you have some spare clothes I can wear? I've been wearing my school uniform for the last four days straight and I'm beginning to stink."

"I'll call Harley about it," Penguin said.

(PAUSE)

The clown prince of crime arrived with his harlequin. "You kidnapped Bruce Wayne's child? Penguin, I didn't know you had it in you."

"Where is the little sweetums?" Harley burst in with bags laden with clothes. "I wasn't sure what they'd like, so I bought everything!"

"Uh . . . hi," you said, waving awkwardly. "Who's that for?"

"You, sweetums!" Harley said. "I also brought soap, toothpaste, shampoo, general hygiene products. Everything you'll need to live here."

"Thank you." You smiled up at the jester. "I just wish my folks could be as nice to me as you guys are."

Harley's smile dropped. "I . . . take it they're not the most attentive."

"They haven't bothered noticing my ransom, why would they notice toothpaste?" you snarked.

Joker and Harley looked at each other with horror and pity before turning back to Reader. "OK, kiddo, can you tell me what the Waynes are like to you?" Joker asked, his tone softened. "We need details. Lots."

"But not yet! You need a shower first. A long one," Harley ordered. "Here's the bag with all the bath stuff and here's the bag with all the clothes. Once you're dry and dressed, tell us everything."

You looked at Harley with confusion. "You . . . really want to know?"

"Of course!" Harley insisted. "Think of it as talk therapy. While you're in there, I'll call Ivy. She's the best with hair. And Professor Crane, too. You are not going to be alone with all those thoughts, honey. Let me know when you're done so I can get you a snack."

Your head was spinning. All those people would be arriving . . . and all for you.

How would you ever get used to this?

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3 <- You are here

Part 4

Part 5

Taglist: @tinybrie

[februarysmoonlight]

the stars at night (are big and bright)

aka you force jason todd to visit buc-ee’s forgive me this is so self-indulgent where are my southern jason fans

———

you didn’t expect jason to offer his company to you so easily, especially when that company meant a two day road trip and a week’s stay in the heart of texas. beyond that, this week included lots of time with your slightly crazy, slightly redneck extended family. you told him in no uncertain terms that he didn’t have to go, that your family would rip him apart with questions, and that it would not be an enjoyable week for him.

he argued that you had to suffer through meeting his crazy, intrusive, difficult, baggage-heavy family, so it was only fair he got to meet yours.

so here you are. in a buc-ee’s. on the side of the freeway in nowhere texas.

when you pull in, he quirks an eyebrow, checking the fuel gauge because he swears he just filled up the car. to his surprise, the tank still reads as full, and he has no idea why you’re here when you just stopped.

but no, you pull into one of the few empty parking spots in front of a giant tan building, ignoring the rows and rows of cheap gas pumps behind you.

“buc-ee’s?” he asks, and you grin. you haven’t had a lot of opportunities to show jason where you came from, and, well, you’re excited.

“you can’t come to texas without going to buc-ee’s.” you explain, pulling down the keys and sliding them out the ignition. he smiles, shaking his head.

“its a gas station.” he argues.

“it’s buc-ee’s.”

“it’s a gas station.”

“it’s buc-ee’s.”

he stares at you blankly, and you realize the only way to expose him to the magic of buc-ee’s is to show him, so you drag him from the car towards the building. you smile, noting his astounded expression while his eyes follow the masses of people filtering in and out of the building.

your hand slips into his and you pull him towards the worn copper beaver statue at the entrance. “let me get a picture.” you say, taking a few steps back. he shoots you a look while you pull your phone from your pocket, but nonetheless pulls a cheesy smile and poses next to bucky beaver. even though he thinks it’s stupid to take a photo next to a gas station mascot, he’d do much more than this to see you smile.

he lets you guide him around the buc-ee’s, marveling at the scale of the building. hand in hand, you take him past the cashiers and towards the bathrooms that you explain are exceptionally clean. when you both exit, he mumbles something about the ludicrous scale of the restrooms, but he doesn’t complain. you take his hand again, steering him towards the center of the building where the brisket resides.

“—so i normally get the chopped brisket sandwich, but the pulled pork and the three meat are just as good.” you explain, swiping your favorite buc-ee’s sandwich from the food warmers. “oh, and we can split a sausage on a stick.” you say, grabbing the wooden end of the tortilla-wrapped meat stick.

he laughs, almost in awe. you smile, pausing to look at him. you love it when he laughs, when he has that amazed look in his eye, when his mouth hangs open and he relaxes just enough to let himself be happy.

eventually, after two chopped brisket sandwiches, a sausage on a stick, a small paper cone of cinnamon roasted cashews, a box of beaver nuggets, a square of fudge, a diet coke and a orange cream soda, and two matching buc-ee’s shirts jason begged you not to buy but promised to wear, you make it back to the car.

“i told you.” you say, sliding into the passenger’s seat, plopping all of the goodies in the center console.

he playfully rolls his eyes, shaking his head. “tell me why you need a gas station that big?”

you shrug, unwrapping your sandwich. “it’s buc-ee’s.”

[sensorytuna]

── LOVE ME NOT.

synopsis . as the guidance counselor of south park middle school, you support students, parents, teachers and administrators to ensure that the highest levels of student success can be obtained. but when two children with familiar last names keep on landing themselves a trip to your office, you're left with no choice but to break no contact and call two men that you have dug deep in your past.

notes . occasional swearing, age gap change between the mccormick siblings and broflovski brothers, lowercase intented, aged up chatacters (in their 20s) a choose your own ending series

♡ : kyle broflovski / kenny mccormick (K2) x reader

- your office is a mess of paperwork, a half-eaten granola bar, and stress-induced regret when the clock hits 4:30PM

- "so," you start

- "why am i seeing you two again?"

- ike broflovski and karen mccormick sat across from you, both in their respective chairs like two gremlins awaiting judgment

- you are one bad argument away from strangling them both

- you sigh, rubbing your temples as you glance at the two kids

- both of them have matching indifferent expressions like this is a normal tuesday for the two of them

- (which unfortunately it is)

- "didn't do anything," ike shrugs

- karen snorts at that

- ike is staring at the ceiling like it just personally insulted his entire family

- karen is slouched in her seat, legs stretched out with her hood up

- she's a sweet child, really

- until ike roped her into—

- "uh-huh," you flip through the files and the angry comments from their advisors in colorful sticky notes

- "let's see—oh wow, property damage? do i even wanna know?"

- ike grins like a little shit while karen shrugs, still not looking at you

- "depends," he says

- "do you want plausible deniability?"

- you pinch the bridge of your nose

- "okay, whatever. we'll get to that later."

- you spin your chair to the voip phone resting on your table, grabbing the handset and furiously dialing the phone numbers you saw from the scribbled emergency contacts in both kids' information files

- first up; mrs. broflovski

- ring... ring... ring...

- suddenly, in full speaker mode—

- "hello! you’ve reached the broflovski residence! if this is about a fundraiser, we already donated! if this is about a petition, send me the link and i’ll sign it! if this is about a complaint—just know that i am a mother, and i will not tolerate any nonsense about my family! leave a message after the beep, and i’ll get back to you when i can. kisses!"

- there's a short pause at that

- followed by a muffled "sheila, you need to shorten that—" before the voicemail cut off

-

- you hung up without leaving a message

- ike sighed loudly at the end of the voicemail, rolling his eyes

- "told you she wouldn't come here"

- karen snorts, who had been listening to the voicemail too

- you weren't even sure if you should call mrs. mccormick

- but you try to anyway

- ring... ring... ring...

- "yeah?"

- it's gruff, vaguely annoyed, sound just like mrs. mccormick herself

- "uh.. mrs. mccormick?" you start

- karen straights up slightly

- there's a pause, then a long drag of a cigarette

- "who's askin'?"

- you take a deep breath

- "this is the school counselor. i'm talking about karen."

- there's another pause

- in the background, there's a muffled voice of man speaking

- "who the hell is that?"

- carol sighed like speaking was too much effort for her, "the school."

- more muffled grumbling, then carol comes back to you

- "she ain't dead, is she?"

- your stomach twisted at that mere thought

- karen shook her head, going "god dammit, mom..." under her breath

- "no! no, she's—she's fine. but she and a friend got into some trouble at school, and we need a guardian to come in."

- more silence

- she takes a slow drag on the other side, then a sharp sniff like she was holding back a yawn

- suddenly

- "yeah, that ain't happenin'."

- you blink

- "i'm sorry?"

- "i said, that ain't happenin'. whatever it is, tell her don't do it again. there. problem solved. 'kay, bye."

- click

- she hung up

- you stare at the handset with an unreadable expression before putting it back in the voip

- right

- that went just as how you expected it to be

- karen bit the inside of her cheek, scoffing before looking away

- you took the hint of saying nothing about that before glancing down at your own phone

- being a guidance counselor pays off apparently, judging by the current model of your phone

- you still have their numbers

- kyle and kenny

- you pause at the sight of their contact names, your hands beginning to get all clammy at the abrupt thought of them

-

- you text kyle first

- you: ike is in my office again. your mom isn't answering, come get him

- in under any circumstances DO NOT CALL: are you serious

- in under any circumstances DO NOT CALL: jesus christ i'll be there in five minutes

- you let out a sigh of relief you didn't realize you were holding before going to kenny

- you: karen's here, your parents said fuck no so can you come by

- scam likely: lol what did she do this time

- you: kenny

- scam likely: yeah yeah i'm coming over

— ♡ —

- kyle arrives first

- you hear his footsteps down the hall, brisk and determined

- your office door swings open and there he is

- dressed in business casual, sleeves rolled up, glasses on, looking like he just walked out of an important meeting that he absolutely had to interrupt to deal with his brother’s bullshit

- damn

- "ike," he gritted his teeth

- "are you fucking kidding me?"

- "wasn't me," ike immediately counters while kyle took a seat on the couch

- "oh my god."

- you clear your throat, hiding your smirk

- "kyle—"

- "sorry," he says, shaking his head

- "hi. long time, no see."

- he gives you an awkward smile that doesn't quite reach his eyes

- possibly because he's holding in the urge to strangle his brother right in front of you

- "thanks for calling me."

- he turns back to ike, his curt smile immediately disappearing

- "i'm telling mom when we get home, dipshit."

- just then, the door creaks open once more

- kenny peeks his head in, looking far less rushed

- "hey babe,"

- you blink

- "excuse me?"

- his grin widens, "sorry, force of habit."

- that was NOT a force of habit

- kenny steps inside, still in his car workshop uniform like he's visiting an old friend

- technically

- he is

- "hey kenny!" karen grins, looking at her brother

- "hey sweetheart," kenny greets back, ruffling her hair while he sat down beside kyle

- "so what's the damage?"

- "yeah, they broke the sink."

- kenny snorts, whereas kyle groans

- a sharp contrast between the two

- "hell yeah, that's my girl."

- "christ, dude. nothing changed about you."

- you sigh

- "okay, okay. let's just... deal with this."

- "so what's the punishment? detention? suspension?" kyle looks at you, expecting you to be the other adult in the room

- you glance at kenny, who's sitting beside him like he lives here

- and then your eyes wander to the kids, completely unbothered

- "it's a one month suspension. they broke a damn sink in the bathrooms."

- kyle scoffed, running his hands through his face

- "great job, sweetie." kenny grins, fist-bumping karen

- this is gonna be a long day

TWO DAMN BITCHES AT THE SAME DAMN TIME 😜😜😜😜 (want a part 2? it's coming soon teehee)

[veevettel]

ONE CALL AWAY SERIES

PROLOGUE: A crazy idea involving a rookie Available on Wattpad ⋆ Masterlist here

PAIRING: Oscar Piastri x Louisa Wagner (original charater) TROPES: Friends to lovers, secret identity TIMELINE: Formula 1 2023 season

© VETTELSVEE (2025). please, do not steal, copy or translate my works. thanks for reading!

📍Thurgau, Switzerland 🗓️ January 19, 2023

What time are you arriving in Zurich, Lou?I need to tell Seb so he can pick you up 🥰And don’t you dare leave me on read and come on your own, we’re the ones who invited you!

Louisa reread the messages her sister had sent a couple of hours ago and sighed, resting her forehead against the car window. She wasn’t just hoping they were close to the Vettel household. She was also praying that none of them would scold her for not telling them she had arrived in Zurich and was already on her way to Thurgau.

“We’re almost there.”

The redhead turned to the passenger seat and couldn’t help but smile.

Mick was entirely focused on the road, but she knew he was happy, really happy, that the youngest Wagner sister had decided to spend some time in Switzerland… even if it wasn’t for the best of the reasons.

“You should have come earlier, you know? Anne went back to Germany a few days ago, and if you’d come sooner, we could have spent some time together. The kids would have loved that,” he said, glancing briefly at her before turning back to the road.

“And so would my sister and Seb, trust me. They would’ve handed those little beasts over to us in a heartbeat and escaped to a luxury hotel for one of those romantic weekends they love so much,” she replied.

Mick chuckled before asking:

“Speaking of Seb and Di, did you tell them you’ve arrived? That I picked you up?”

Louisa didn’t answer. Instead, the soft sound of the radio, now playing a Dua Lipa song, filled the silence in her place.

“Lou…”

“I didn’t want to bother them,” she finally said. “You know they’ve been having a tough time with the whole documentary filming. I don’t want to make things more complicated…”

It was true. And, at the same time, it wasn’t.

“I came here to help them, not to be another burden.”

“You know none of them would see picking you up as a burden.”

And he was right. But her stubbornness, the exhaustion from two flights and a four-hour layover, and the fact that Mick had just pulled up to the villa where her sister, brother-in-law, and nieces and nephew lived, stopped her from answerinf.

“I’ll come by in a few days to check in on you and keep you company,” Mick declared as he quickly got out of the car to grab her suitcase from the trunk. Louisa followed suit.

“You don’t have to do that,” she said.

“I know. But I want to. You’re my friend, Lou, and that’s what friends do, right?”

Once again, she had no words.

Schumacher didn’t say anything else. Instead, he pulled her into a quick hug before getting back in the car, starting the engine, and driving off, leaving her completely alone.

She walked toward the entrance, noticing the door was slightly ajar. In the distance, she saw the family dogs, Clifford and Bruno, playing together. The moment they realized the visitor had arrived, they started barking excitedly, running up to her in an attempt to jump on her and greet her properly.

“Aunt Lou!”

Emily’s excited shriek made Louisa jump. The girl had just burst out of the house, sprinting towards her. Lou barely had time to react before her eldest niece crashed into her, wrapping her arms tightly around her waist.

“You’re finally here! I’ve missed you so much!”

There was no denying it: Emily was the spitting image of Seb. She had his whole face, his blonde, curly hair, and his striking blue eyes. She hadn’t inherited anything from Diana, unlike Matilda and Enzo, who were a mix of both parents—or, in Enzo’s case, the perfect replica of his mother.

“See? I told you I’d come,” Louisa said with a laugh, ruffling the girl’s already messy hair.

“Yeah, but it took you forever to get here!”

“Emily, it’s only been two weeks since I told your mom I was coming.”

“Aunt Lou! Aunt Lou!”

Matilda now appeared at the door, bouncing excitedly. Even though it was early afternoon, she was still in her blue Spider-Man pajamas. Lou had no doubt Seb was to blame for letting her stay in them all day.

The moment Matilda reached her, Lou crouched down, and the little girl wasted no time wrapping her arms around her aunt’s neck so she could pick her up.

“So mommy and daddy weren’t lying after all! You really came!”

“Of course I did,” the twenty-something murmured, pressing a kiss to her niece’s forehead while pulling Emily closer with her free arm so she wouldn’t feel left out. “Have you been taking care of everyone like you promised me after Christmas?”

Matilda nodded, though not very convincingly.

“Yes! But Enzo is still a tiny baby, so I let mommy and daddy take care of him!”

Louisa chuckled at her niece’s logic, but before she could answer, or even step inside the house, another voice interrupted their little reunion.

“Alright, girls, let’s give your aunt some space to breathe. She just got here, and she’s already going to get tired of you.”

Seb stood there, Enzo in his arms, resting against his hip. He looked at her with that familiar warmth he always carried. The moment their eyes met, Louisa finally felt at home, for the first time in a long time. Maybe even longer than she was willing to admit.

“Welcome home, Lou.”

He took a step forward, freeing one arm so he could pull her into a hug.

“Why didn’t you tell us you’d arrived?” Vettel asked, concerned about lacing his voice. “Did something happen?”

“No, no, nothing like that,” Lou quickly assured him. “I just didn’t want to bother you, so I asked Mick to pick me up. We went to have lunch and catch up a bit. You know, with all of him going now to Williams… and dating your sister…”

“Come on in, it’s cold outside,” Sebastian finally said after a few seconds that felt like an eternity. He took the girl’s suitcase and ushered his daughters inside, followed by their aunt. “Make yourself at home, Lou, and get some rest, you need it.”

“Louisa! How could you not call me to let me know you’d arrived?!”

Diana’s voice rang out from what seemed like quite a distance, but within seconds, she appeared in the doorway, walking briskly while wiping her hands on the apron she was wearing. 

She quickly gestured for her husband to close the door, which he obeyed immediately, and then signaled to her daughters to settle down.

“For God’s sake, girls! What have I told you about going outside without a coat? You’re going to catch a cold!”

Sebastian handed Enzo to Lou, chuckling quietly, just as she did, and picked up the suitcase to carry it to her room. Diana grabbed Lou’s wrist, pulling her inside once and for all, then motioned for her to follow.

“You got here just in time,” Diana said as they entered the kitchen. “I made apple strudel. And cookies with all sorts of fillings, and cake, and even a pie…”

“You just wanted me to visit so you could give me new recipes for The Sunshine, didn’t you?” Lou teased, watching her sister pull a tray of pain au chocolat out of the oven, just like the ones she was used to making at the café in their hometown, Linz.

“Well… maybe you caught me,” Diana smirked.

Sebastian entered the kitchen, still holding the little one in his arms, and positioned himself next to his wife, trying to sneak a bite of something she had made, though not before stealing a kiss from her lips.

“Take advantage of it, Lou. She only bakes when she’s happy.”

“And when she’s stressed,” Lou pointed out. “Remember, she started The Sunshine after Ferrari fired.”

“I am not stressed,” Diana protested. “And they didn’t fired me: I resigned after they posted on social media I was parting ways with them by the end of the season before we even agreed on that.”

Sebastian glanced at Lou out of the corner of his eye, mouthing liar, which made both of them burst into laughter, soon joined by Enzo, who waved his chubby little arms excitedly.

“So, tell me, how was the trip?” Diana asked, turning to her sister while playfully smacking her husband’s arm with a dish towel. “Mick went to pick you up, right?”

“It was long, but there were no disasters, so let’s be thankful for that.”

Diana then approached her sister, placed a hand on her shoulder, and made her sit on one of the kitchen island stools.

“Come on, sit down. You need to eat something.”

She placed a plate in front of her with a slice of apple strudel and a couple of the cinnamon rolls she knew Lou loved.

The moment Lou took a bite of the apple strudel, she felt completely at home, enveloped in the warmth of one of her greatest comfort zones. It also brought back fond memories of her childhood with her sister and Sebastian, first as her best friend, and later, as her sister’s boyfriend.

“Well then…” Diana said, now holding Enzo while Sebastian tidied up the kitchen to make space for the sisters. “It’s time to catch up.”

“Where do we start?”

“Iryna. How is she?”

“Busy as always, you know how she is,” Lou replied, swinging her feet under the chair. “She’s a little overwhelmed with the book she’s currently writing. It’s a project she’s had in mind for a long time, but since it’s a bit different from what she’s used to writing, you can imagine… She thinks people are going to hate it.”

“She always says that, and then it turns out to be a huge success,” Sebastian chimed in, taking a seat beside his wife.

“Yeah, but you know how she is. She overthinks everything, even before anyone has read a single word of what she’s written.”

Diana nodded, completely understanding. She had never imagined that the Italian girl who had once walked into her café looking for a job would one day become part of their family.

“Does Max know what it’s about?”

“What do you think?” Lou asked. The couple shook their heads, and she nodded. “He says it annoys him when she writes and that he doesn’t deserve to get spoilers.”

“They’re like an old married couple with 60 years of marriage under their belt,” Sebastian joked.

“Speaking of couples who act like they’ve been together forever… Thoughts on Ame and Carlos?”

Diana and Louisa exchanged a look before bursting into laughter. 

If someone had told them less than a year ago that they wouldn’t just rekindle their relationship with their sister but that she would start fake-dating someone out of revenge—only to end up falling in love with Carlos Sainz—they wouldn’t have believed it.

“Ame hasn’t stopped talking about it since Carlos took her out to dinner to make things official,” Diana said, rolling her eyes. “I thought she was anti-romance, but it turns out the toughest of us is the complete opposite.”

“Do you remember when you and Seb started dating, and she wouldn’t stop teasing you because you were so cheesy?” Lou nearly shouted between laughs.

“Don’t remind me,” Sebastian groaned. “I still remember when Johanna invited me to dinner for the first time as Diana’s boyfriend. I held her hand, and Ame said we were disgusting. Not to be mean, but…”

“And now they’re the disgusting ones,” Lou continued, sighing dramatically. “Amelie won’t shut up about how perfect Carlos is, how attentive he is, how much he wants a dog…”

“A dog?” Sebastian raised an eyebrow.

Lou shrugged and began playing with her nephew, alternating her gaze between them.

“Apparently, he’s been trying to convince her. He says it’ll help them prepare for when they have kids.”

“Oh my God… They’ve been dating for less than a month, and they’re already thinking about having kids. They’re a disaster…”

The conversation went on for hours, covering everything from how their uncles were doing and how they planned to handle this new year without an F1 season to worry about, to the preparation for the documentary they would start filming in just a week, and how Lou was managing The Sunshine on her own now that Iryna was no longer working there since moving to Monaco.

By the time the night had fully settled over Thurgau, the kids were exhausted and fast asleep in their rooms, finally granting the adults some peace. The only sound from them was Enzo’s steady breathing, coming through the baby monitor resting on the armrest of the sofa where Diana was sitting.

Lou was lying on one of the armchairs next to the couch, having decided to give the couple some space as they cuddled together. Diana sighed, resting her head more firmly against Seb’s chest, trying not to overthink everything that was coming their way. Most of all, she was struggling with how to approach the conversation she had been avoiding with her younger sister, especially given how stubborn, independent, and emotionally closed-off Louisa could be.

A comfortable silence had settled between them, making words unnecessary. But that didn’t mean Diana could ignore the need to talk to her sister.

“So, Lou…” she said at last, sitting up on the couch. She crossed her legs and took Seb’s hand for support. “How are you? I mean… how you really are?”

Louisa didn’t answer right away. She knew she couldn’t avoid this question forever, just like she couldn’t avoid the conversation that was about to unfold. A tightness formed in her chest, one she hadn’t felt in a long time because she hadn’t allowed herself the luxury of feeling bad.

“I… don’t know,” she admitted honestly, exhaling sharply.

“What do you mean by that?” Seb asked gently, his voice calm and reassuring.

“I mean that I should know how I feel, but I don’t,” she let out a sarcastic laugh. “I’ve spent so much time pretending I’m fine that I don’t even know if I actually am or if I’m not. I don’t have an answer, to be honest.” She looked down, feeling slightly ashamed. “Most days, I just… act like everything’s normal.”

Di exchanged a quick glance with Seb before getting up. She walked over to where her sister was sitting and perched on the armrest of the chair, wrapping an arm around her shoulders.

“It’s completely normal to feel that way, Lou. You don’t have to be ashamed of it, or have everything figured out when you’re feeling so… lost.”

Lou swallowed hard, trying to hold back her tears. 

Trying, above all, not to seem weak.

She had always been the pure light of their family. The funny, adorable little girl who could brighten even the worst of days with her infectious smile.

She couldn’t be the opposite now.

“I feel like I should know what’s wrong with me. The rest of you have… I don’t know, lives that are sorted out. And I…” She forced herself to stop and take a deep breath. She wouldn’t cry. She wouldn’t allow herself to. “Ame has Carlos, and just look at them! And Iryna—not only does she have an amazing boyfriend, but her career is going great too. And you and Seb… you’ve always been my example of what I want in the future.” She smiled sadly at them. Diana felt her chest tighten, guilt washing over her in a way she hadn’t felt in a long time—possibly not since their father’s death. “I just feel like a useless person who’s merely existing and not doing anything.”

“Lou, sweetheart, that’s not true,” Seb said, trying to reassure her.

“Well, it sure feels like it,” her voice wavered slightly, but she tried to ignore it. “What have I even done in the past year? Work at the café? Post TikToks and YouTube videos about books?”

Diana opened her mouth to respond, but Lou stopped her before she could.

“Don’t get me wrong, Didi. I love working at the café. It’s my dream job. But it still feels like I’m just filling time doing things to keep busy because, deep down, I don’t know what to do with my life.”

Di squeezed her hand tightly.

“I’ll say it again: you don’t have to have all the answers right now. You don’t have to fix everything immediately.”

“Then when?” Lou shook her head, struggling to contain her frustration. “I’m twenty-one years old and the only future plans I have are calling Aunt Johanna to check on the café’s online orders and deciding what to post next on social media. Is that a future?”

Sebastian sighed. Louisa’s words reminded him too much of the conversations he’d had with Di over the past fifteen years.

One thing was certain: besides being stubborn, ambitious, and determined to take on the world, the Wagner sisters were incredibly insecure.

“Lou, you’ve been through a lot,” the German said. “You lost your mother when you were just a baby. Then you moved to Spain, only for your dad to get diagnosed with cancer, and Di had to take care of you while dealing with that. And then he… passed away. Coping with all of that, and everything that came afterward, it’s a lot. It’s not easy, really.”

Di lowered her head, trying to hide her tears, but both of them knew how she was feeling.

“And now… you’ve seen people you trusted with your life walk away.”

“You mean Vivian. You can say her name, Seb, it’s fine.”

“Of course, we mean her, Lou,” Diana chimed in. “And we’re not avoiding the topic. What matters is whether you are ready to talk about it.”

“I just don’t know what I did wrong for her to leave like that… like I was nothing to her. We have been inseparable since we were twelve. And then, one day, I text her, and surprise! She reads the message and never replies.”

“Some people leave for no reason at all, without any explanation,” Seb exhaled, rubbing his jaw. “And that doesn’t mean it’s your fault.”

Lou let out a bitter, sarcastic laugh.

She had spent months trying to convince herself of that, but it had only made her feel worse. It had made her overthink everything, questioning if she was actually a good person, or if she wasn’t at all.

“Yeah, sure. But at least if she had told me what I did wrong, I could have gotten some closure, moved on, and kept living my life like nothing happened.”

“The thing is, Lou… sometimes, we don’t get closure. Sometimes, someone is here one day and gone the next.”

“Yeah, well… it still sucks.”

Lou sank deeper into the chair, crossing her arms and staring at the wall in front of her, filled with photographs. She spotted one of her father, smiling, just months before he died.

She tried to convince herself that not being able to say goodbye to him, that not having the proper farewell was far worse than the unexpected loss of her former best friend.

And yet, the tightness in her chest remained.

“I think it would help you to focus on the things that genuinely make you happy,” Diana said softly.

“Like what?” Lou asked, sitting up and looking directly at her sister, who was now standing.

“Well… your YouTube channel. You could start there. Or your TikTok videos.”

“Didi, those are just hobbies.”

“But do they make you happy?” her brother-in-law asked. Lou nodded, and the German continued. “Then focus on that. You love to talk about everything. Why not take it seriously and give yourself permission to be a… that thing I can't remember the name…”

"Content creator," the sisters said in unison. “Influencer.”

"Exactly. So what’s stopping you from doing it?"

The girl swallowed hard and looked down again, nervously fidgeting with her hands.

"I suppose… the fear of letting people down. That exposing myself too much to the public might turn me into someone I’m not, like creating a mask for myself."

Diana let out a soft laugh and pulled her into a warm embrace, pressing gentle kisses to her head.

"You won’t expose yourself too much because you don’t like to—I know you," she reassured her. "And I’m also absolutely convinced that you couldn’t present yourself as anyone other than who you truly are, even if you tried. People love you, Lou, and it’s time you realize that once and for all."

"I don’t know… I still feel like it doesn’t make sense."

"My life didn’t make sense either when I first started karting as a kid, and look at me now," Seb chimed in with a chuckle.

"Yeah, but you’re good. That’s why you’re a four-time Formula 1 world champion."

"And you’re good at what you do too," Diana countered, trying to lift her sister’s spirits as she seemed to sink further into self-doubt. "The problem is, you just don’t believe it yet."

"I don’t know if I ever will. I don’t even know if you’re telling me the truth or if you’re just saying this because I’m family and you want to make me feel better. But if that’s the case—"

She didn’t finish her sentence. She stopped herself the moment she saw the disappointment on her sister’s face and the concern on her brother-in-law’s. That thought, the one that had been festering in her mind, had completely taken over. Without another word, Louisa abruptly stood up from the couch and headed to what would soon be her bedroom.

Neither Sebastian nor Diana dared to speak, not even when they heard a loud door slam upstairs, strong enough to wake the kids.

Diana, who had instinctively stood up to follow her sister but ultimately froze at the entrance of the living room, let out a sigh. She hesitated for a moment before returning to the couch and sitting down beside Seb.

She exhaled slowly, trying her best to calm down and, above all, not to feel guilty about what had just happened. Her only intention had been to make her sister feel better.

But she knew it had turned out to be the opposite, and that was the last thing she had wanted.

Then, in the middle of all the thoughts swirling through her mind, an idea struck her.

"You’ve got that look again, love."

Seb, who had his arm around her waist, straightened up slightly to look at her.

"What look?"

"The look that says you’re about to do something crazy."

She smiled. He knew her too well.

"Should I be worried?"

"No, no, not at all. I was just thinking about how much Lou needs a push."

Sebastian tilted his head, confused by her words. Diana stood up from the couch and walked over to the entrance hall, where she had left her phone. Then, she returned to her husband, completely focused on whatever she was typing.

That alone was suspicious enough.

"What do you mean by a push?"

"She’s stuck, Seb. She has been for years, you know it as well as I do," she said, lowering her phone to look at him. He still didn’t seem to understand where she was going with this. "It’s like she’s been in survival mode ever since my dad died. And yes, she had a much better childhood than Amelie and I did, or at least that’s what I tried to give her. But because of that, she never really let herself live like a normal person."

Seb nodded, watching as Diana paced back and forth, clearly deep in thought.

"And you think you can fix that?"

"I can’t ‘fix’ it, but I can help. She needs something—or someone—to help pull her out of that cycle of negativity she’s trapped in."

"Let me guess: you already have someone in mind."

She didn’t say a word, but the way her lips curled into a knowing smile while she typed was enough of an answer for Sebastian.

"Diana…"

"What?" she asked innocently, walking back toward him and settling onto his lap. "Sunshine, I know exactly the person who could help her with this… someone who could push her out of her comfort zone…"

"You can’t just throw someone at her like that, assuming it’ll fix everything," the German countered, trying to reason with his wife.

"I’m not throwing anyone at her!" she defended. "I just think it could do her some good to meet someone new… someone with a different perspective, yet similar struggles. Someone who’s in a position like hers but maybe sees things differently."

"And who exactly is this person…?" Seb asked cautiously.

Diana shifted slightly, now straddling her husband, wrapping her arms around his neck, her smile widening.

"Oscar."

"Oscar… as in Oscar Piastri?"

She nodded before pressing a kiss to his lips.

If it weren’t for the fact that he was absolutely and utterly in love with her, Sebastian might have lost his patience.

"Think about it, love," she continued, regaining her composure but keeping her hands on him, now tracing slow, teasing patterns along the waistband of his pants, occasionally tickling his arms. "Oscar is young and just starting his career, but he’s been under immense pressure for years. He knows what it’s like to have expectations placed on him, to have people talk about him even when they don’t know him. He’s also lost people, and despite everything, he seems to handle it all relatively well."

"That’s true… If I remember correctly, Lily left him out of nowhere right after he was announced as a McLaren driver."

"And without any explanation, just like Vivian did to Lou," Diana added.

Seb sighed, processing the idea.

"Well… I have to admit, this isn’t the worst idea you’ve ever had," he finally said.

“I'll take that as a victory.”

“And how exactly do you plan to make all of this possible?”

Diana picked up her phone, opened WhatsApp, and went straight to Oscar's contact, which she didn't hesitate to open. To her surprise, he had already replied.

Hypothetically speaking... what do you think about meeting someone who has no idea they need to meet you? the woman asked.

What do you mean, meeting someone who has no idea they need to meet me? Is this a riddle? was the response from the Australian. Or is this something a sponsor told you?

Diana showed the message to her husband, who raised an eyebrow.

“He wants an explanation. And I’m sure you’re also making the poor guy nervous.”

The woman nodded, and that was exactly what she did.

It's simple, really. Lou, my younger sister, is going through a... let’s say, somewhat complicated situation, and I think she needs to meet someone new! I don’t want to tell her who you are, so she doesn’t feel pressured or judged… what do you think?

“Do you think this is going to work?” Sebastian asked with a hard-to-read expression.

“I honestly don’t know, she admitted after sending the message to the guy. But I do know it’s a great opportunity for her to realize we don’t see her as a victim or some charity case, you know?”

“I hope, for both your sakes, that this works out…” Seb murmured as he kissed his wife on the forehead, now sitting next to him, hugging her knees.

“Yeah... me too…”

Diana’s phone, still by her side, vibrated once again.

She quickly unlocked it and went straight to Piastri’s contact. Seb leaned in, curious to see what the guy had replied.

Perfect, no prob! Just let me know what you need from me, but if I could give you an idea... how about I create an anonymous email to start? :)

[leighsartworks216]

Plant An Idea

Zayne x Sylus

This was gonna be Zayne x reader but then the Snowcrow took over. Could be seen as a prequel to Loving Life. Daughter is unnamed

Warnings: fluff, domestic fluff, family fluff, domestic bliss, family, parenthood, daughter, hair braiding, kissing, banter, ambiguous/open ending

Word Count: 1,418

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Blips, boops, and bopping music sound softly through the living room. Pixelated characters hop around the TV screen, one more confidently than the other, solving puzzles together. The clicking of buttons follows their movements.

Zayne shushes his daughter once again when she squeals in glee at getting to the next level. "We need to keep it down, sweetheart, remember?"

She gasps, looking back at him with wide eyes. "Oh no, I forgot!" she tries to whisper. He's useless to stop her when she looks up to the ceiling and shouts, "I'm sorry! I'll be quiet now!"

He smiles. He has no doubts that woke his partner up, though he's sure Sylus won't mind. Not really. Not if it's their little girl doing the waking.

He kisses her temple and brushes her hair back behind her ears. "Would you like to keep playing?"

She puffs her cheeks out, shaking her head. He takes her controller, gently removing the strap from her little wrist before he leans forward to set them on the coffee table. She twists in his lap, wrapping her arms around his neck. He wraps an arm around her back to keep her in place. "Papa, can you braid my hair?"

"Of course."

She lights up with excitement as she squirms back around in his lap. He chuckles, leaning back so he doesn't get hit in the face by her flailing arms. She sits herself on his knees, legs kicking lightly as she does her best to push her hair back for him. He helps her, lithe fingers gathering her hair from her face and behind her shoulders, combing through gently to detangle any knots and tangles.

She babbles to him about her current favorites - animal, color, cartoon, storybook, plushie - as he separates her mess of hair into three sections. Though he knows how to braid, it's certainly nothing fancy. He's had plenty of practice with the children in the pediatrics ward, when they shyly come up to him to tug on his lab coat and ask if he can help. He never minds; it helps calm the child down before his examinations and the meticulousness of it helps him get his thoughts and questions in order.

Over and under, weaving hair together. Her hair is quite soft, too. His husband insists on getting her the best of the best in products. Even if she decides to cut it short one day, Sylus will always want it to be well taken care of.

When he gets to the bottom, he holds it all together with one hand and holds his other in front of his little girl. "Can you get a hair tie for me?"

She nods, almost pulling the braid from his hand, and does her best to pull the tie off his wrist. He finds himself keeping one on hand more often these days. There are even times he almost forgets to remove it before he preps for surgery. Yvonne commented on it once, mentioning how nice it was for Zayne to always have one handy for the kids in the ward. He'd nodded politely and moved on, unsure how to tell her he simply put it on that morning with his watch in pure muscle memory.

He opens the tie around his fingers and wraps it multiple times around the end. Once it's secure, he lets the braid go. "How's that, sweetheart?"

She grabs it over her shoulder, loosening a few strands in her effort to look at it. "It's perfect, Papa!"

A hand stretches out over Zayne to tap the girl on the head. She gasps as she spins around, head tilting back to peer up at the man behind the couch. Sylus grins sleepily, raising an eyebrow at her. "What do we say?"

"Huh?"

"When someone does something nice, what do we say?"

"Oh!" She throws herself against Zayne's chest, hugging him tightly. "Thank you!"

Sylus chuckles softly. "Very good, sweetie." He reaches over again to ruffle her hair. Zayne tilts his hair back to shoot him a very unamused look. He sees that tired grin grow a bit wider. "There's some new outfits for your dolls on your bed. Why don't you run along and play with them for a bit?"

She pouts, cheeks puffed and lip poking out. "I wanna stay out here and play!" she whines.

Sylus leans over the back of the couch lazily, wrapping an arm across Zayne's chest as the other props his head up by the elbow. "You've had all day to play with Papa, sweetie. Can't I have five minutes with him, too?"

Zayne pinched her side lightly. She squirms with the ticklish feeling, breaking her pout almost immediately, though she tries really hard to reinstate it with little success. "We can do whatever you want when baba goes back to bed, dear."

"Promise?" She sticks out her little hand, pinky held out expectantly.

"I promise." He wraps his pinky around hers. They pull it apart, sealing the deal, but she holds it out to Sylus next.

"You, too!"

He chuckles fondly, but does the same. "I promise, sweetie. Now go play."

She squints her eyes at them suspiciously for a moment, before finally sliding off Zayne's lap. She runs around the couch to hug Sylus's leg. "I'm sorry for waking you up," she says.

He reaches down to rub her back. "It's okay, I forgive you."

They both watch as she then runs over to the stairs and scampers up them on all fours. Zayne's attention is brought back by a hand on his chin, guiding him to look up at his partner. He can't get a word in before lips are over his, kissing him languidly, taking their time tasting him.

It's not rare for them to have moments alone, but it's certainly not as common as they'd like. They always knew it would be this way with their sleep schedules alone, but a child on top of it all certainly threw an extra wrench into the mix. Now on top of sleep schedules and jobs, there's making breakfast and packing lunches, drop-off and pick-up to and from school, play dates, shopping, and so on and so forth.

Sylus pulls away reluctantly with a quiet hum, satisfied. "You taste like her yogurt," he murmurs.

"She insisted on sharing," Zayne defends. "How do you know what her yogurt tastes like, hm?"

"Shh." Another kiss, full of grins. Zayne reaches up to tangle his fingers in the hair at the back of his neck. Sylus groans softly in delight. His thumb rubs softly at his chin. Fingers brush lovingly along his jaw, down his neck, gracing the bulge of his Adam's apple.

Zayne tugs lightly on his hair to break the kiss. "You didn't just get up to kiss me," he accuses.

Sylus wastes no time dropping his head down into the crook of his shoulder, breathing in deeply the scent of jasmine and sugar. His arms both slip down to hug his husband, no matter how awkward the position may be. "I could have."

"Then you've had your fill," he plays along. "Go back to bed and I'll kiss you when it's time to get up."

He sighs with faux drama. "I have such a cruel lover."

"Be careful, or I may not kiss you at all."

He squeezes him with a chuckle. "You went into the wrong career, beloved," he teases. He presses light kisses along his throat. Chaste, and as though only there to ground him into what he wants to say. "I wanted to... plant an idea in your head."

Zayne feels the subtle shift in the air. He combs through Sylus's hair, scratching at his scalp and providing a quiet reassurance with one hand, as the other comes to intertwine with his lover's. He hum, encouraging him to continue.

Upstairs, they can hear their daughter talking to herself, acting out wild scenarios or gushing about the new clothes. Sylus has bought her nearly every accessory and outfit available. Anything she could ever wish for, he'd get it for her. That has always been the case. But, as they listen to her play, there is a certain hollowness to it, a gap where there should be something.

Sylus thumbs at the band on Zayne's finger. "She could use a friend," he whispers.

Zayne tilts his head to rest it lightly over his husband's. "By 'friend', I assume you don't mean someone from school."

"Well?" A pause. "What do you think?"

---

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