#bad ideas and good girls

[madamebaggio]

Notes: Previously...

***

Chapter 3

Okay, so waiting sucked.

A lot.

Why did she tell Arthur to take his time? What if he really took his time? What if he needed weeks to come to some conclusion, and that conclusion ended up being a ‘no’? (Which was his right, of course.)

And just because she’d told him to take his time, it didn’t mean he should really…

“Hello?” Sansa answered her phone without even checking who it was.

“Hey. Red.”

“Arthur!” She almost dropped her phone.

“Is everything okay?”

“Yes, of course.” She cleared her throat. “What can I do for you?”

“I was under the impression I was the one doing something for you.” He teased, and Sansa could picture the grin he likely had on his lips perfectly.

“Oh.”

He chuckled. “I thought about it.”

“That was fast…” As much as she’d been complaining about him taking his time it’d barely been 36 hours.

“I didn’t have much to think about, honestly.” He admitted.

Sansa frowned. “No?”

“Nope. I may be many things, Red, but an idiot is not one of them.” He chuckled. “I’m in, but I want to meet and discuss some things. Would you like to meet at my place or yours?”

Oh. He was saying yes. Arthur agreed.

OMG!

“Mine?” She suggested.

“Will do. Is 8 okay?”

“Yes.”

“See you then, love.”

OH LORD! HE’D SAID YES!

What was she thinking of?

***

Sansa believed she’d thought this over until there was nothing left to even consider.

She was clearly wrong.

Apparently there was a lot to think about now that Arthur was on his way to… Oh shit.

“Breathe in. Breathe out.” Sansa commanded herself. “It’s Arthur. He’s fine. He’ll be nice to me.”

He would, Sansa knew that deep inside. Arthur would never treat her badly, even if she decided she didn’t want to do this anymore.

The two weeks she spent reflecting about it had been kind of weird, though. Sansa hadn’t thought about Arthur like that before. She did know he was hot and all, but he was Robb’s friend, so it’d never crossed her mind.

Arthur didn’t treat her differently from the other girls in the group. He was a huge flirt, and they had all been his target at some point, but it’d never been serious. He and Marge flirted outrageously all the time and they never -ever - had hooked up.

She’d danced with him at a wedding once and Arthur said they’d look really cute as cake toppers on their wedding. Sansa had snorted so loudly another guest thought she was choking. She was almost sure it’d been the same wedding he’d told Maggie she could have his babies.

The point was: Arthur was a flirt and a huge slut, and Sansa didn’t hold it against him. As previously explained, he wasn’t a pig and she was pretty sure he’d treat her well -in all senses.

That was why she’d chosen him. As much as she’d rolled her eyes at his smugness, she could understand why he was so pleased with her trust.

“Red.” He grinned at her when she opened her door for him, his eyes crinkling in a way that was so Arthur.

Every time he smiled it felt as if he was doing it so genuinely. It always made her want to smile back at him.

“Blondie.” She teased him, since he insisted on calling her for her hair color.

He just dropped a kiss to her cheek. “I brought dessert.” He showed her the bag of a bakery Sansa loved.

“Are those…?”

“Lemon cakes for my favorite Stark?” He said. “Yes.”

“I’ll tell Arya you said that.” She threw back, grinning as well.

“I’ll deny it until my last breath.”

That was good. She could talk to him like this.

“Come sit so we can talk.” She said, gesturing toward the couch.

“Thanks.”

There were some pleasantries, some tea and the best lemon cakes ever. It was easy and it was fine.

That was until Arthur patted the spot next to him on the couch. Once they sat down side by side and it became quite clear they were about to discuss sex, Sansa started feeling uncomfortable again.

As much as she was an adult and she’d had sex before, she never had such open discussions with previous partners. That was probably part of the problem, but it still felt strange.

“You’re blushing.” Arthur informed her.

“I know.” She grumbled, making him chuckle.

“Take your time, love.” Arthur said easily, resting on the couch like he had no concerns in the world.

“How should I start?” She asked, feeling her face warm.

Arthur thought about it for a second. “Just dump it all on me. Everything you want, everything you don’t want at all. Just spill. Afterwards, we wade through it and see what works for both of us.”

She could do that. How bad could it be? She’d gone to his house and told him she - possibly - had a praise kink and wanted him to help her with it. After doing that, this couldn’t be much harder.

“I never minded some dirty talk, but most of the time it didn’t feel exactly like what I wanted to hear.” She started carefully. “ And it also feels kind of weird when it’s silent during… But I’d never figured out what I was missing specifically. Then Marge gave me an audiobook for my birthday and…” She cleared her throat.

“Was it naughty?” He teased her.

“Very.” She admitted. “But it was not that what got me. There was this guy saying a few of the parts, and when he said ‘good girl’...” She cleared her throat again, and Arthur nodded, like he really got it. “I didn’t really like the book in general, because it was more like a daddy kink thing, but I heard it all because of the praise.”

“I see.”

He was so chill about it. As if he had similar conversations everyday. Sansa thought he might tease her a bit about it, but he seemed like he understood what she meant and had zero judgments about it.

“I tried finding some other books and things about it, then I came across the praise kink thing. I did some research.” She continued. “And it seemed hot to me.”

“But you don’t want a dominant/submissive type of relationship.” It wasn’t really a question, but Sansa shook her head anyway.

“No. Like I said, I don’t want to call you ‘sir’ or -worse - ‘daddy’. I really - really - don’t want to receive punishments or be called names. I don’t mind dirty talk, but I really don’t like degrading words.”

“I need to ask this just so we’re clear.” Arthur said seriously. “We are talking about having sex, right?”

Oh god. Trust Arthur to ask something like that so directly. “Yes, Arthur, I don’t want to sit on the bed and braid your hair while you tell me I’m pretty.”

He laughed. “I was just checking. I also don’t want you braiding my hair when we could be…”

“Arthur!”

He grinned. “And for the praise? Are you talking about just words or do you want gestures as well?”

Sansa hesitated for a minute. She was worried that if she told the truth, Arthur would think this was getting too close to a relationship kind of thing. However, she was tired of hiding what she wanted, and Arthur had the right to know where he was getting himself into.

“I like gestures too. Being held, kisses on the forehead…”

Arthur hummed like it -once again - made perfect sense to him.

“I guess in a way you’d have a more dominant role in it.” She mused. “Since, you know, you’re the one giving praise and all. I just don’t want to feel like I’m at risk of making you angry and getting punished, you know?”

“You don’t have to worry about that, San.” He told her softly. “I know you, and I know how sweet you are.”

She didn’t want to feel as pleased as she did by what he said, but… Yeah. A shiver ran down her body. “Thank you.” She murmured.

He smirked, making Sansa narrow her eyes at him. “What about you?”

“Well, if you wanna tell me I’m pretty, I won’t complain.”

“Arthur.”

“I’m joking, love.” He winked at her. “I like the things you said, and I’m not against any of it. The things I’m not into I imagine you also aren’t. Unless, you have a very naughty side and are into choking.”

“No!”

He chuckled. “So we’re good. We do this slowly and we talk. A lot.”

She nodded. “That’s good.” She let out a relieved breath. “Thank you, Arthur. Really.”

He smirked at her. “It’ll be my pleasure, love.” He sighed and got up. “I’ll see you tomorrow for dinner.”

Sansa watched him walking toward the door, completely confused. “Wait. What?”

“Dinner tomorrow.” He said, clearly getting ready to leave.

Sansa hurried after him. “But… I thought we were…”

Arthur was grinning when he looked at her. “I’m taking you out on a date.” He told her quite simply.

She frowned. “Why?”

Arthur rolled his eyes dramatically, as if Sansa was being obtuse on purpose. He turned to her fast, and suddenly Sansa found herself pressed against a wall.

Just like in a book, a movie, those horrible soap operas her mother loved.

Wow.

Although Arthur was really close, he was only touching her on the waist. His other hand was by her shoulder, against the wall. His eyes were on hers, and he looked dead serious.

“Sansa.” His voice was lower, more intimate. The hand that was on her waist went up and he pinched her chin. “We’re going out, we’ll have dinner…” He ran his thumb across her bottom lip. “You’re going to wear something pretty.” He slid the thumb down her chin, her neck, until he reached her collarbone. His eyes never left hers. “And something even prettier underneath it.”

Sansa’s heart was beating insanely and she felt the urge to press her legs together. He was barely touching her, hardly doing anything that scandalous and she was already… Oh lord.

He hadn’t finished, though. Both his hands grabbed her waist. “We’ll talk, and laugh and flirt a lot.” His left hand went down until he reached the hem of her dress. “I’ll be charming and you’ll be even more so…” His hand slid back up, touching her thigh, getting higher. “And only then - after dessert - I’ll bring you back home…” His hand stopped just shy of touching her underwear. “And see what happens. Deal?”

Sansa opened her mouth to reply, but her voice failed her. She had to clear her throat and try again. “Deal.” Her voice came out breathless and not steady at all.

Arthur grinned all the same. “That’s my girl.” His hand squeezed her thigh before letting go. “I’ll pick you up tomorrow at 7.”

Sansa just nodded, and Arthur was still grinning when he kissed her cheek. “See you tomorrow, pretty girl.”

Well… Fuck.

[godforsakenpaladinofnigh]

Girl dad 🌸

[heartorbit]

figure skating set right now please. thanks

[marshmallowpuffcat]

Caine knows that sharing is caring 🫶

Meme reference!

[truepsychicbedtimestories]

Having a slumber party in the 2000s stimboard!

💤 / 🎉 /💤

🎉 / 💤 /🎉

💤 / 🎉 /💤

[ratatatastic]

maffhew who refuses to say runebergin torttu because he knows hes gonna butcher it so bad he might be kicked out of the country the second he tries and staunchly avoids that by going "the one dessert that barky is going to have to explain 😃"

sasha who gets faced with the most generic description of everything hes ever eaten in his life so far because of maffhew and going "???... oh you mean runebergin torttu!"

"he did good he liked the food and he likes the finland so far so its good" sasha says with so much pride now that all the anxiety has left his system that his husband teammate is enjoying his country and doesnt hate it

media availability | 10.29.24 (x)(x)

the smile of a man who knowlingly doomed his husband and said husband using all his brain power to context clues his way to whatever the fuck he just got asked that his brain is running hotter than a mid 2012 macbook air thats somehow still alive in the year of the lord 2024 but girl does she chug along shes louder than a fighter jet

[sneakyboymerlin]

One more time… Merlin didn’t owe anyone his secrets. No one was entitled to them, not even Gwaine. It’s like, actually bizarre that you will all call magic a gay metaphor and then die on the hill that he’s sadistic if he doesn’t tell anyone, as if it’s “harmful” to others if he keeps it a secret when he actively lives in a place where he will be killed for it. You are all embarrassingly susceptible to right winger anti-lgbtq logic and only surface level pro-gay. Except it’s ultimately a metaphor for religious persecution so uhh anyways… bite a brick

[blueskittlesart]

deeply refreshing to see someone critical of Swift who also like, genuinely likes her. Like i'm neutral to positive on her, but the online discourse has been absolutely rancid. flipping between "Taylor Swift has never done anything wrong ever and she's a fucking genius" and "Taylor Swift is the worst lyricist of all time and also a bad person" is exhausting, so thank you for like. nuance or something lmao

not to make it serious for a sec but i genuinely think that being able to like things that are bad is really important. like I think that it's an important skill to be able to look at something and see what you personally enjoy about it and then take a step back and acknowledge that objectively it's flawed. and to also be able to acknowledge that liking something isn't necessarily an identity or a moral stance. and i think that fandom space in general could really benefit from more people taking the time to learn how to do that. it's okay to like things that are bad

[louieshalo]

demiromantic asexual riz gukgak save me… save me demi/ace riz who can’t distinguish his romantic feelings for fabian from his platonic ones

[kronoscythe]

this is the first season, their first quest, they should make a lot of mistakes but the show aims at a perfect portrayal where the 12 year old kids are never tricked by millenia old creatures. "well annabeth is so smart it wouldn't make sense if she didn't figure it out!" if we get season three maybe annabeth will know better than to fall of a cliff since she's a daughter of athena. riveting television i tell you. cinemasins ass logic

[snortoborto]

I'm so over the victimhood complex of feminine cis women.

Gender diversity isn't a threat. Diversity in gender presentation isn't a threat.

Femininity is not equivalent to purity and innocence.

Femininity can still be harmful when enforced on people who don't want it. Women and feminine people can still do harm. Femininity can still be weaponized, especially white femininity.

[madamebaggio]

Notes: And there's one more chapter because I'm a weak woman.

Previously....

***

Chapter 2

This was how - two weeks later - Sansa found herself in front of Arthur’s door, getting caught red-handed by him.

It did take her two weeks to come to a decision about whether she should ask him for help or not.

The thing was… Arthur was kind of a slut -and Sansa said that with a lot of love. He was the ‘love’em and leave’em’ kind of guy, but not in a douche way. At least, as far as Sansa knew.

Which was why he was the perfect one to ask this to. Arthur wasn’t into commitments and Sansa didn’t want a boyfriend. She just wanted to try this one kink.

It was a kink, right?

Like… Probably a boring one all things considered, but still a kink. 

“Sansa?” Arthur called again, an uncertain smile on his face. “What are you doing here?”

It was just her luck that he’d be out and come back right when she was reflecting about her bad choices.

“Nothing.” She declared grandly. “I was just leaving.”

“Princess.” He stepped in front of her. “You didn’t come here for nothing. But…” He pressed when she’d have said something else. “You don’t have to tell me why you came. How about tea?”

She opened her mouth, then closed it again. “I wouldn’t want to impose.” She finally said.

“You never do, San.” He grinned at her. “Let’s have some tea.”

And that was how she found herself inside his flat, talking about nothing in particular and drinking tea.

Sansa liked Arthur a lot -in a very platonic way. He was funny and ridiculous, really smart and honest to a fault. He wasn’t a bullshitter, but he also wasn’t those ‘brutally honest’ people that just used that as an excuse to be assholes.

Was he hot? 

Yes, incredibly so. However, he was also much more.

Sansa didn’t choose him just because he was hot and didn’t want commitment. She came to him because he was a man she felt she could trust with this.

For all the time she knew Arthur, she’d never heard him saying one peep about the girls he hooked up with. And she was also aware he didn’t talk to the other boys about it, because Theon was always grumbling about Arthur never sharing the ‘hot bits’ with them.

And if the rumors were true… There were many hot bits.

There was a girl in Sansa’s university that said she’d had a threesome with Arthur and another girl. When Sansa asked Arthur if that was true, he gave her the same reply he always gave in those cases.

“Wouldn’t you love to know that, Red?” That was his official ‘no comments’ piece.

So, really, as far as she knew, Arthur could have zero experience with sex. It didn’t seem possible - or fair to humanity - but it could happen.

“What are you thinking about, Red?” The man in question teased her. “You’ve drunk all your tea, so now it’s time to spill it.”

She snorted, but fell quiet.

“Is something wrong?” He asked her gently. “You can tell me.”

“No.” She assured him quickly. “I just… I feel silly now. I shouldn’t have bothered you.”

“Sansa.” He admonished quietly. “Don’t say that. I don’t know what’s on your mind, but you aren’t silly. It’s fine if you don’t want to say it now.”

Sansa took a deep breath in and came to a decision. “Remember the last time we were at the pub?”

“Yeah.”

“And Percival was talking about the handcuffs and stuff.”

“Unfortunately, I’ll never forget that.”

That made Sansa giggle, but then she blushed. “Were you… Were you serious?”

He frowned. “About?”

It was now or never. “Volunteering as tribute.”

Arthur was silent for a long time. Long enough that Sansa started to worry.

Then he cleared his throat, leaned back against his couch and crossed his arms. “What am I volunteering for again?”

“I want you… And me…” Oh lord, this was humiliating. “To… You know.”

Great. Very mature.

He got quiet again, but he recovered faster this time. “San, I’m not saying this to give you a hard time, but love…” He uncrossed his arms and scratched his cheek. “If you’re hinting at what I think you are, I’d appreciate you being very clear about it.”

That was fair.

She could do this. “There’s something I want to try… Sexually.”

Arthur nodded, like this was a perfectly normal topic of conversation for them. “Okay.”

“And I’ve never felt comfortable or safe enough with any of my boyfriends to even suggest it.”

Arthur’s eyebrows went up. “And you believe you’ll feel safe with me?” He pointed at himself.

“I do.”

Suddenly a smile broke on his face, and he looked… “Are you proud of yourself?” Sansa demanded incredulously.

“Hell yeah.” He said shamelessly. “That’s flattering as fuck, Red.”

“I can’t believe you.”

“Sorry, sorry.” But he was still grinning. “I didn’t mean to make this about myself. You were saying?”

Sansa rolled her eyes. “Oh, you don’t want to gloat a bit more?”

“I’ll save that for later.”

She snorted, then became more serious. “It’s nothing big. You’ll probably think I’m an idiot…”

“Sansa.” He chided. “Don’t say that, please. Remember what we discussed at the pub? Trust is important when you’re vulnerable, and expressing those desires makes you vulnerable. No matter how ‘big’ they are.”

She bit her lower lip. “I see.”

“And I am honestly happy that you thought of me.” His face softened. “Because as much as I was joking a bit before, knowing that you trust me so much… Yeah, it means a lot.”

She gave him a shy smile. “That’s good. I wouldn’t consider asking anyone else.”

“And I’m very much willing to hear it.” He frowned. “As long as you’re not asking me to take your virginity.”

That made Sansa scoff. “Kind of late for that. Why is that the limit?” She asked, curious despite herself.

“Way too much pressure.” He said immediately. “And I do believe you should do it with someone special. Unless…” He drawled with a grin. “You’re about to say you love me.”

She scoffed again. “No. No virginity and no feelings.” She took a deep breath in. “I think I have a praise kink.”

“You think?” He repeated.

“I’ve never tested it.” She pointed out. “And sometimes things are better in theory than in practice, but it’s always interested me.”

“It makes sense.” He conceded.

“It does?”

“Sure. You do like praise in general and you’re a good one.” He explained, clearly thinking about the situation. “Honestly, it’d be weird if you said you were into BDSM.”

“Yeah, no.” She winced. “I don’t want you to be my Christian Grey. I don’t want to have to call you ‘sir’, and I sure as hell don’t want to be punished.”

Arthur smirked. “Of course you don’t. You’re a good girl.”

“Hey!” She blushed.

“I see.” His smirk grew impossibly large.

“I’m sure you do.” She grumbled.

“And you really never tried this before?”

Sansa knew she needed to be honest with him about this, but it didn’t make this any easier to tell. “The first - and only - time I suggested it to a boyfriend, he took it completely out of the context I wanted, and he turned it into a dom/sub thing where I had to earn his approval. It revealed a very mean side of his.”

“I’m sorry you had to go through that.” Arthur was frowning. “Who was the boyfriend?”

“Why?” She wanted to know.

“Just curiosity.”

No. The look in his eyes wasn’t one of curiosity. It was one that was promising someone a world of pain. “It doesn’t matter. It’s over and done.”

“It’s not. Because after him you never felt safe to ask again.” Arthur pointed out.

“I’m asking you, right?” She pressed.

“Okay…” He sighed. “No other experience?”

“That was a boyfriend that wanted to try some specific dirty talk.” She confessed. “But it was words of degradation and I hated it, every second of it.”

Arthur pressed his lips together, but said nothing. Sansa did not like the look in his eyes. “Can I ask his name?”

“Let’s not go there.” She hurried to say. “I just want to try this in a safe way. You don’t need to treat me like a princess or a china doll, that’s not what I want.”

“I get it.” He assured her. Arthur scratched his chin. “How do you think this would affect our relationship?”

Oh. Time to be careful. “I don’t expect you to date me, if that’s what you’re asking. It’d be more of a ‘friend with benefits’ kind of thing. However, I’d appreciate if we were exclusive for as long as it goes on.”

Arthur hummed. “Sounds fair.” He said slowly. “I need to think about this. Properly. Is that okay?”

“Of course it is. Take your time.” Sansa said, hoping her voice didn’t show the relief she was feeling. She thought he’d say no immediately. “I know I’m kind of springing this on you…”

“It’s fine.” Arthur said easily. “I’m surprised, not gonna lie, but it’s in a good way.”

“Is it?” Sansa frowned.

“You’re hot, Red.”

“Arthur.” She rolled her eyes.

“I’ll think about it.” He promised her. “But you do the same, okay? Remember you can change your mind at any time.”

“So can you.”

He just hummed again, but said nothing.

Sansa was happy to leave his place. This had been less horrible than she thought it’d be, but… Well, now she had to wait for his answer.

[ladyantiheroine]

“What’s your favorite ship dynamic?”

[gabbbyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy]

CHAT.

DO Y’ALL SEE THE VISION HERE. OR AM I JUST TRIPPING

[berberriescorner]

“Are You Listening?”

Part Three: “Bad Idea”

Characters: Rio x Black!Reader.

Summary: It’s part three…expect the unexpected.

Warnings: Profanity, angst, fluff, drinking, and drama.

Word Count: 5,900+.

A/N: I just wanted to thank my lovelies again for showing this story so much love. I had no idea people would love it this much. Thank you for all the sweet, hilarious comments and asks💓. Enjoy the chaos😂😏😈.

"Are You Listening?" - The Playlist:

Apple Music.

Spotify.

Part One Here.

Part Two Here.

Inspired By:

Dark clouds filled the evening sky as a drizzle fell against your windshield. Your thoughts were adrift as you fought to make a proper decision. There were only two choices. Accept the offer and hope for a positive outcome, or leave immediately. The loud vibration of your phone halted your decision-making. Sucking in a shaky breath, you accepted the call. It was your best friend. The word hello barely left your lips as she began firing off questions.

“Did you make it to your destination safely? Are you sure it’s smart to be around him right now? Should you trust him?”

You cut your friend off.

“Sis, calm down. Let me answer at least one of your questions.”

“Seriously though, Y/N. How did he find you?”

“He didn’t find me, per se. We’re just in the same state, city, and establishment. Ironic as it may seem.”

“That’s just a little too coincidental for my liking. Look, just be careful and keep your guard up dealing with him. Y/N, you’ve got enough shit going on. There’s no need to fan the flames. Your situation is bad enough. Accept his offer but keep your head on a swivel. Now, take your ass inside that building. Call me once you’ve settled for the night. Do you need money, sis?”

“How’d you know I’m sitting in the car? Yes, I’m good on cash. I withdrew half of our joint account before I left town. I should’ve emptied the account and made his damn pockets hurt.”

“It’s my job to know. You’re my best friend. I agree you should’ve drained that account, girl.”

You inhaled, attempting to calm your nerves, “alright. I’m going in. I’ll call you later with an update. Love you, sis.”

Even after ending the call, you spent a few more minutes in the driver's seat of your vehicle. 

Oh, fuck this. Let me just see where it goes. It’s been years since I’ve been here. It wouldn’t hurt to accept the help of a familiar face.

Exiting the car, you enabled the lock as you walked towards the luxurious hotel lobby. Halfway across the threshold, you felt his presence to your left.

“I was starting to think you had changed your mind. It was as if I could see the thoughts racing through your pretty little head from the lobby window, sweetheart. I’m glad you decided to accept my assistance.”

“I’m not sure I’ve decided to do so. Listen, I appreciate the hotel recommendation, but don’t you think it’s odd, maybe even inappropriate?”

“Why’s that? Are you afraid that I’ll inform your husband of your whereabouts?”

“Cut the shit. Why are you being so helpful? What’s the real motive here?”

“Listen, believe it or not, we’re family. Just because you’re mad at Rio doesn’t mean I should just leave you out here all alone. I don’t plan on telling him I saw you. There are no plans to notify him of your location. I’m securing a place for you to stay because I wouldn’t feel right leaving you to sort everything out alone. I have no idea why you’ve left my dumbass cousin. The fact that you packed your bags and just left suggests it’s serious. I won’t pry. Tell me or don’t, but I will secure and pay for your entire stay here. No arguments.”

“If Christopher finds out you’re helping me stay away from him, he’ll explode. The two of you already have a strenuous relationship.”

“If he finds out. Then he’ll just have to get over it. I honestly don’t give a damn, darlin’.”

“What are you even doing in California, Nick?”

“I’m here on business.”

“What kind of business?”

“I’ll answer that once you explain why you left your husband. What exactly did my cousin do, sweetheart?”

Rolling your eyes at Nick, you walked over to the hotel clerk. She greeted you with a warm welcome, offering you help. Giving her your last name, she informed you that you were staying in the penthouse. About to object and ask for something smaller and less expensive, Nick interjected.

“It’s already been taken care of, cousin.”

Your head snapped in his direction with an incredulous expression.

“Are you out of your mind? No, on second thought, you're not paying for my stay here. I’m not letting you put me in a penthouse and allow people to think I’m your whore. Do you have any idea how that will look, Nick? Are you crazy? You must want Christopher to kill both of us. No wonder you two don’t get along. You love pushing his buttons. The whole damn family’s crazy.”

“Are you finished with your little tirade?”

“I see that you’re also a sarcastic asshole like Christopher.”

“Did you miss the point where I had no intentions of Rio finding out? Just take the room, and enjoy the luxury. I’m sure my cousin has been putting you up in the nicest of places since the day he laid eyes on you.”

“I’m starting to feel like you’re implying I’m a gold digger. Tread lightly. I’d hate to have to kick you in the nuts. Now do us both a solid and change the damn room. Be glad that I’m accepting your help, to begin with.”

“I think it’s best if you know something. I'm just as pushy and controlling as your old man, sweetheart. We both know I’m helping and paying, no matter what you say.”

“Switch. The. Damn. Room,” you growled.

“Fine. Jesus, you’re just as stubborn as your husband.”

“That offer to kick you in the balls still stands. Please stop tempting me.”

“I have a business meeting here at the hotel. I made arrangements for my associate to stay here for a few days. He’s a man of luxury. I’ll switch the rooms for the two of you.”

“Yes, do that, Nick.”

“I’ve got to admit I enjoy hearing you say my name.”

You had grown tired of his antics and landed a sharp jab on his chest.

“One more inappropriate comment and I’ll leave to figure things out myself. I don’t know what you think is happening between Christopher and me, but we are married.”

Not for long, but he doesn’t need to know that.

“Even if I were single, I wouldn’t give you a second glance, honey. Please do not fool yourself.”

“Why is that? Am I not rough enough around the edges, like your hubby?”

“You honestly want to know?’

Nick shrugged his shoulders as if to say, “sure, why not?”

“You’re overly arrogant, and your sense of entitlement is ridiculous.”

He started to interject, but you pressed on.

“I’m no fool, Nick. Deep down inside, you’re hoping that somehow, some way, Rio finds out. I see you. You’ve been sparring with my husband his entire life. You’ve spent your life trying to prove that you are the bigger, better man than Rio. What’s the difference between you two? Nick, you’ve spent your entire existence having everything handed to you. All while my husband did the heavy lifting, grunt work, and the bids. Or have you forgotten about that? Rio earned his empire. He got it out the mud. You just sat and watched, sticking your hand out to take a chunk when it was all said and done. While Rio can be arrogant, it’s warranted. He can talk his shit and back it up.”

Although I’m pissed to the highest level and treading the waters of divorce, I’ll be damned if he sits here and insults everything Rio has worked hard to accomplish.

“Do not flatter yourself. You’re nowhere near half the man my husband is.”

Even if he is a cheating ass bitch.

“Such a beautiful, passionate rebuttal, and yet you’re here. With me, might I add, after walking out on mi primo. Let’s just call a truce. I’ll try not to flirt with you, but I won’t lie and say my cousin doesn’t have good taste,” he teased.

I just insulted him, and he’s still thirsty. Lord, help me.

“For the love of God, Nick!”

“Okay, I’ll back off. Now let’s get you settled into your room, shall we? I’ll accompany you back to your car. Carry your bags up to your room,” he responded, throwing his hands up in surrender.

With squared shoulders, you lifted your chin into the air.

“That won’t be necessary. Don’t you have a meeting to get to?”

“Why do I feel you’re trying to get away from me? Are my good looks too much of a temptation for you?”

“Boy, stop! Don’t nobody want your shallow, overconfident, big-headed ass.”

“You’re so mean, mama.”

Did this motherfu-I know he didn’t just say that! Now he’s pushing it!

Moving closer, you crowded his space. The smirk dancing along the corners of his lips proved he knew the nickname he used was out of line and disrespectful. You looked around. Making sure he’d be the only one to hear what you had to say. Through clenched teeth, your words dripped with venom.

“So long as we both have breath in our bodies, don’t you ever make the mistake of calling me that again. Please do not get it confused or twisted. Rio did not marry a weak bitch. Call me that again. I’ll do Rio a solid and spray you full of bullets myself.”

“Aww, why not, sweetheart? Does it make you miss hubby?”

“Keep playing with me, Nick. It won’t be funny to you when I want to laugh too. I’m over this conversation. Thank you for the room. Now, leave me alone. Go make yourself someone else’s problem.”

“Fine. I’ll come by and check on you later, prima.”

“No, you will not. Goodbye, Nick.”

If Christopher finds out about this, he will lose the little sense he has left. Wait, why do I even care? It’s fuck him from here on out.

“I Gave You More Than You Wanted. I Gave You More Than You Needed. So Tell Me, How Does It Feel To Lose The One You Believe In?”

-Chloë.

The suite turned out to be very spacious and elegant. Much better than the cramped room you had stayed in the night before. You trudge through the doorway of the bathroom, wrapped in a towel. It hadn’t taken long for you to unpack and settle in. Fresh out of a hot shower, you mope to the bed and fling yourself backward. Thoughts race through your head. You hadn’t taken the time to soak in everything. You were too busy trying to run from the situation at hand. Yes, there had been many crying sessions and stewing in anger. Now that you were in another state and settled, it hit you.

Did I just walk away from everything I’ve known for the last four years? The one person I trusted with my heart. My soul. He ripped it out and stepped on it. The audacity. The unmitigated gall to play with my love and emotions. Did he? Rio did that shit, right? How can he possibly have a reasonable explanation?

“You Never Miss A Good Thing ‘Til It Leaves You. And Finally, I Relaize That I Need You. I Want You Back. Baby Girl, I Need You Back. Gotta Have You Back, Babe.”

-Usher.

Just as the tears started to roll down your face, a call came through. You huffed, tapping the ignore button. Seconds later, it started again. The call went unanswered a second time, and a text came through.

It’s me. Please answer your phone.

The phone lit up once more. With a heavy sigh, you accepted the call.

“What do you want, Mick? I don’t want to talk to him, and he knows that.”

“Since you won’t communicate with him. I’m in charge of finding out if you’re okay. I’d personally like to know myself. You good boss lady?”

“Mentally and emotionally, we both know the answer is no. Physically? I’m breathing and somewhat eating. That’s the best I can give you. I appreciate you checking on me. As for your boss? He can go fuck himself. Goodbye, Mick.”

“Hold up, boss lady. I need to see it for myself.”

Mick sent a FaceTime request. With an irritated sigh, you angle the camera so he’d only see your face and a white wall. You begrudgingly accepted the call.

“See. Just fine.”

He frowned as he looked at your red puffy eyes.  Mick could tell you hadn’t been sleeping much.

“Yes, I’m aware my eyes are puffy. I’ll be fine. Bye, Mick.”

Mick was about to plead with you to come home, but his face vanished from the screen. Your eyes sparked with resentment and anger as Rio appeared.

“Mama…”

“What part of I don’t want to speak to you don’t you comprehend,” you spat.

“Can you just fuckin’ listen to me?”

“You suddenly have so much to say! That’s because you no longer have me sitting at home. I’m no longer playing my role as your stupid little unsuspecting wife. No, not anymore. Stay the fuck away from me. Don’t call, don’t text me. Tell your boys to stop looking for me. There is nothing we need to discuss!” “Oh, I’ma keep calling and texting. Please, believe me. Mama, I will find you. You’re coming home; we gon’ work this shit out. Just let me explain everything. You’ll feel silly when it’s all said and done, darlin’.”

“You Didn’t Say It, But You Said It…”

-Chloë.

“Did you fuck that bitch, Rio?”

He looked at you with anger written on his face as his jaw flexed.

“That’s what the fuck I thought. Silence speaks volumes. Fuck out my face. Go find your whore and live a shitty life.”

“Ma-.”

You ended the FaceTime, not giving him another moment of your time.

I'm Going Out Of My Mind, And I'm Running Out Of Time. Oh, I Just Wish I Could Find You, Girl.

-Usher.

Rio stood there, rage coursing through his body. He gripped the phone in his hand tightly, “Fuck!”

“Anything I can do,” Mick questioned.

Rio took a deep breath, exhaling slowly. He handed Mick his phone.

“Let’s take a ride. Red better have a plan. If I don’t get my wife back soon, it’s game over for her.”

“You think she’s the reason behind this?”

“It doesn’t appear that she knows what’s going on. We both know that her innocent deer-in-headlights expression can sometimes be a facade.”

“You’re right about that.”

“We have to find her. I have to fix this. Real shit, man, I need her. I love that stubborn ass woman.”

“Then let’s handle business and get her back.”

“Loved You More Than Ever, More Than My Own Life. The Best Part Of Me I Gave You, And It Was Sacrificed.

-Beyoncé.

Still reeling from the conversation, you tossed your phone across the bed. Everything was just too much. You were overflowing with anger, sadness, and grief. The betrayal of it all had you drowning. A sorrowful cry spilled from your lips as you curled into a ball. You remained in that position, cradling your face until sleep consumed you.

Hours later, your eyes fluttered open. The sun had set, and your room darkened from nightfall. Your feet flung off the side of the bed as a headache throbbed in your temples. The rumbles coming from your stomach echoed throughout the room.

I haven’t had shit since this morning. This stupid ass man got me going through it. I need a damn drink.

You called the front desk to ask if room service was still available. To your surprise, the clerk recommended the hotel restaurant. She explained that both tables and bar space were available. You thanked her for the recommendation as you dug through your wardrobe.

Let me at least look presentable. I can’t be walking around this nice hotel looking bummy. If I play my cards right, I may find my next husband. Nope, scratch that. Fuck these cheating ass men.

Rio sat slumped in the passenger seat with Mick at the wheel. Leaning back on the headrest with his hood pulled up. Rio sat there as his mind kept going over everything. They pulled into the park, waiting for dingbat and her crew. Once they were in sight, Rio gave his boy a nod. Mick exited the car, exchanging duffle bags with Beth. She told him she would have the next one ready at the appointed time. 

“Did you find a way to handle the situation we discussed the other day?”

Beth shook her head with pleading eyes. She promised to find a way to get to the bottom of it. Mick nodded in reply. As she started to leave, Mick halted everyone’s movements.

“Backseat now. We’re going for a ride.”

With a frightened look, Beth started walking toward the vehicle. Mick stopped her again.

“Not you. I’m talking to you half pint,” Mick ordered, pointing at Annie.

Annie’s eyes stretched wide as the three women gawked at him. With a devious smile, he taunted, “don’t worry, I’ll take real good care of her.”

Beth walked over to the passenger window and pounded on it. She took two steps back when Rio rolled down his window. The look he gave stole the breath from her lungs. 

“Is there a problem, darlin’,” his question dripped with danger.

“I told you I would get you answers. I-I just need a little more time.”

“That’s cool, but you may want to watch your nephew for little sister. His mama’s going to kick it with Mick for a bit. Got a little side hustle for her.”

“I can do it.”

“Did I ask you to?” Rio snapped.

“Please keep her safe,” she whimpered.

“Get me that information. Baby sister will come back better than she left. Stay safe, Elizabeth. We don’t want anything bad happening to the little mama to be right? It’s not very responsible of you to be downing liquor bottles, don’t you think,” Rio questioned in a knowing tone.

Elizabeth looked at him with fear in her eyes.

“I notice everything, darlin’. We’re going to take a ride tomorrow. Just the two of us. Check on the little bambino.”

He rolled up his window before she could say anything else. They sped off, leaving Beth to explain everything to Ruby.

Not wanting to turn too many heads, you settled on a simple black dress. You figured it was appropriate, given that it matched your mood. The form-fitting bodycon paired well with the dark red heeled sandals and lipstick you sported. Checking that the room key was inside your handbag, you exited the room.

The hostess gave you a warm greeting. She granted your request for a seat at the bar. As you claimed your spot, the gentleman behind the bar asked for your drink of choice. His eyes had roamed your body from the minute you sat down. It hadn’t gone unnoticed. Prepared to answer his question with disinterest, someone stepped up next to you. Strong hands braced against the top of the bar. A silky baritone sounded, making your breath hitch.

Are you serious? Who else am I going to run into? This day is beyond me. Maybe it’s not him. I have to be trip-.

“She’ll have a whiskey sour. That’s what she used to drink whenever a frown touched that beautiful face.”

Yes. That would be the one and only.

You turned your head slowly to take in the familiar voice. His face was as beautiful as you had remembered it.

“Hello, mi amor. May I join you? I could use a drink myself.”

Confusion and shock danced across your face. You looked back and forth between the thirsty bartender and your long-lost friend. His eyes connected with yours as that handsome smile crept across his face. He signaled for the bartender to go ahead with the order. Taking the seat next to you, he chuckled at your expression.

“It’s nice to see you after all these years, querida. What brought you back here? Last I checked, you were happily in love. Are you and the husband here on business?”

Hearing him mention Rio snapped you out of it.

“Miguel,” you whispered.

His eyes crinkled as he gave you another beaming smile.

“It’s good to see you again. How have you been? Are you enjoying married life? What’s it been a year or two since the I Do’s?”

The smile that had occupied your lips for a moment faltered. Your eyes started to water as you looked away and faced the bar. Miguel’s hand covered yours gently. 

“What is it, sweetheart? Tell me what’s bothering you.”

Just as you were about to answer him, a familiar pain in your ass sounded off behind the two of you.

“Yes, prima. I’d like to know what’s going on as well. Most importantly, how do you know my associate here,” Nick questioned.

Nick waited for an answer as he sat there looking smug. A knowing look crept onto his face as if he had discovered a secret.

“How do you two know each-wait? Prima? You’re related to her husband?”

“What business are you two dealing in? Are you working with Rio, Miguel?”

Before he could answer, Nick answered for him.

“Relax, prima. It’s my business deal. Rio isn’t involved. We do have individual businesses. We butt heads too much to do everything together.”

“I wouldn’t do business with your husband without telling you, querida. Then there is the fact that we’ve never met in person. The meeting is my first encounter with your cousin. I’m sure you know Rio wouldn’t want to go into business with me.”

“And why is that? He used to tap that or something, prima? Maybe I should give Rio a call.”

“Are you interested in talking about business or not, Nick? That is the only thing that needs to be questioned or discussed,” Miguel responded in an aggravated tone.

“Hey, whatever you say, man. She knows I’m just teasing.”

“Then perhaps you should find someone else to aggravate. The lovely lady certainly doesn’t enjoy it. Is our table ready?”

“Yes,” Nick bit back.

“Then let’s get this over with. I do have other business to attend to. You have my attention for the next hour. We aren’t starting on a good note, wouldn’t you agree, Nick? You need to fix that. I assume the warehouse visit has been scheduled and prepped for tomorrow. Let’s make our way to our reserved table.”

“Right this way.”

Miguel’s hand gave your shoulder a light squeeze before he got up to follow Nick. 

“I’m sure you still have Nestor’s number,” he asked, tilting his head toward his security/cousin. 

“If you need anything, give me a call. It was a pleasure running into you, querida.”

You gave him a weak smile and nodded softly. Turning back to the bar, you downed the whiskey sour. Your fingers tapped the bar for another. The drink was halfway to your lips when Rio started blowing your phone up. With a deep sigh, you ignore it and turn your phone off.

“Bartender? Go ahead and bring me two more.”

The universe is funny as fuck. This man’s going to find me. I can just feel it.

You rubbed your temples as you contemplated where to go from here. One hour, four drinks later, you sat there wallowing in your pain. Thankfully you had made a conscious decision after the last drink to switch to a glass of red wine. Feeling buzzed, you decided it would be your last drink of the night. Taking your time with it, you nursed it for a while. Just as you had swirled the remaining liquid in its glass, Miguel reclaimed his seat from earlier.

“A penny for your thoughts, querida?”

Your eyes drifted from the stem of your wine glass to Miguel’s face. He noticed that you were slightly inebriated. His hand reached up and brushed your hair out of your face. The palm of his hand rested on your cheek.

“Don’t you have other meetings to get to?”

“I just wanted that smug asshole to hurry up and discuss the deal. The sooner we did that, the quicker your dear cousin would be gone,” he replied sarcastically.

“Hmm. Smug bastard, huh? That best describes his thick-headed ass,” you toast, downing the last of the wine.

“You shouldn’t be drinking at a bar by yourself, amor. I’ve watched half the men in here ogle you the entire time you’ve been here. Come. Nestor and I will escort you to your room.”

Miguel didn’t want to give you time to protest or continue drinking. He paid your tab and held his hand out. You stared at it for a moment.

“Though you’re wearing heels, those cute little legs still dangle from the stool. Come, sweetheart. I promise to be a respectable gentleman. I don’t make it a habit of approaching married women,” he chuckled.

Not giving it any more thought, your hand gently grasped as he helped you down. The elevator ride was quiet. That was until you blurted the one question that lingered in the back of your mind.

“Where’s your wife, Miguel?”

You noticed how his jaw ticked, nostrils flaring slightly.

“She had other plans tonight,” he answered.

Before you could ask him to elaborate, the elevator dinged.

“I do believe this is your floor.”

Miguel placed his hand on the small of your back. Nestor stepped aside, allowing you two to step out first. He asked for your hotel key as you walked down the hall. You turned the corner as you placed the key card in his hand.

“You said the first door on the left, right?”

“Ye-.”

You lost your train of thought as you started to panic. There was a large bouquet of yellow roses in front of your door.

“Shit.”

“What’s wrong, querida,” Miguel asked as he rubbed the small of your back.

The worry in your eyes set off alarm bells in his mind. Miguel took a look and noticed the flowers. The distress about possibly working with Rio. The teasing from Nick. He turned to face you, blocking the view of your door. His hand caressed your face.

“Tell me the truth. Are you in danger? Did you leave your husband, querida,” he whispered as he searched your eyes for the truth. 

No longer able to keep the emotions bottled up, your lip trembled as the tears slipped down your face. You nodded slowly. Miguel frowned at the response. He pulled you into an embrace as you cried into his chest. His hands rubbed your back as he attempted to soothe you.

The two of you stayed that way for a few moments. Pulling back from his embrace, you wiped at your tears. Miguel’s hands slid up and down your arms.

“Did he hurt you,” he asked, jaw ticking again.

“Rio would never put hands on me. He-he.”

Unable to finish the sentence, a fresh set of tears spilled.

“Okay, okay. Shhh. I think I’m starting to understand. Come here.”

He embraced you again. Once he calmed you, Miguel escorted you to the door. He nodded at Nestor, signaling him to pick up the flowers. Unlocking your suite, he grabbed the flowers and followed you inside.

“Thanks for getting me here safely. Sorry, I just unloaded all my emotions on you like a crazy person.”

“It’s fine, querida. That’s what friends are for. We were close once. Lost time won’t affect that.”

His thumbs swept residual tears away. He bent to your feet and helped you out of your heels. Standing, he grabbed your hand and held it. His finger lifted your chin.

“Try and get some rest. Come deadbolt the door behind me.”

Following him to the door, you watched as he opened the suite door. Stepping into the hallway, he turned to speak with Nestor.

“Have one of the other men come and watch her door for the night. If it’s not me, no one gets in here. Don’t even let them knock. Watch the door until your replacement gets here.”

Nestor nodded in agreement taking his position in front of your door. Miguel turned to you, his hand running down your arm again.

“If you need me, I’m on the top floor. Just ask whoever is guarding the door to call me. Better yet, here. Call me if you need anything.”

Miguel handed you a card that had both his business and personal number.

“Okay,” you whispered.

“I’m serious.”

“I’ll be fine, Miguel. Rio’s just adamant about us staying together. He would never physically harm me.”

“You can’t blame him for wanting to work it out. Any man would be a fool not to fight for you. Still, if you need me, call me.”

“Yeah, because Emily would just love that. She’s never been fond of me.”

“Don’t worry about her. I’m the least of my wife’s worries at the moment.”

No longer wanting to discuss his personal life, Miguel pecked your forehead.

“Goodnight, Y/N.”

Locking the deadbolt behind him, you made your way to the bedroom. Stripping out of the tight dress, you bundled up in a complimentary robe. Falling into the couch, you turned your phone back on. Six texts and two voicemails. You rolled your eyes. Noticing the flowers, you mumbled to yourself, “fucking Nick probably snitched. Little shit.”

You snatched the card from the bouquet and flipped it over. Your breathing sped up as your mind started to race.

What the fuck? I don’t need this shit. What next?

Hands trembling, you re-read the card.

“I see hubby’s out of the picture. Who’s going to protect you now? What better way to kick Rio when he’s down? He would probably be beside himself if his precious jewel came up missing. Stay safe, pretty lady.”

To top it off, now I have to run from his ops too? You have to be shitting me!

Snatching the door open, Nestor saw the look of fright in your eyes.

“The flowers aren’t from my husband. I’m pretty sure whoever sent them just threatened me. Tell Miguel I appreciate everything he did tonight, but I’m getting the fuck out of here.”

Nestor talked you down. He instructed you to grab anything needed for the night and lock up. In less than twenty minutes, Nestor was escorting you to Miguel. He was anxiously waiting for your arrival. His hands instantly cradled your face.

“You’re staying with me for the night. We’ll figure out where you’ll go from here in the morning. Sleep in the bedroom. I’ll take the couch.”

“That’s nonsense. I can sleep on the couch.”

“No, you won’t. No arguments.”

“Why are most men in my life so damn bossy.”

“They also seem to have the same types of occupation. You don’t seem to like men who like legal work, querida.”

“Ha, ha. You’re so hilarious.”

“There’s nothing wrong with that. Those mentioned tend to be extremely successful at it,” Miguel replied with a shit-eating grin.

“Anyway.”

The conversation was interrupted by yet another call from Rio.

“Look, I'm going to have to answer him. I’ve been ignoring him for hours now. I know his veins are about to pop out of his neck.”

You excused yourself, taking the call in his bathroom.

“For someone who’s always so busy, you sure are blowing up my phone. Go back to ignoring me, please. I don’t have the energy to go back and forth with you, Rio. I’m tired and stressed out.”

“Just come home, mama. I’ll leave and stay somewhere else. Just come home,” he slurred.

“Are you at that stupid bar that demands your attention as well? Go home, Rio. Sleep off the liquor.”

“I gotta be near you, mama. Who's going to protect you? What if someone tries to harm you while you’re not with me? I can’t live with that shit. I need my wife to come home. Come on, mama.”

“It’s a little too late to protect me now. Isn’t it? Don’t worry about me, Rio. I can handle this shit myself,” you snapped, quickly regretting the last sentence.

“Handle what shit, mama,” he barked.

Fuck.

He instantly knew something was up.

“It’s okay, Rio. I’m a big girl. Luckily my stupid ass husband taught me how to use a gun. You know I stay strapped.”

“Either come home or tell me where the fuck you are. I’m going to light whatever city you’re in up. Better yet, I’m about to spray any suspected target.”

“Don’t be stupid. There is no need to start a war on my behalf.”

“I’m not going back and forth about this anymore. Tell me where you are.”

“No, goodbye, Rio.”

“Don’t fucking hang-.”

Miguel stood propped against the door frame.

“I know he fucked up, but it sounds like he wants to keep you out of harm’s way.”

“Don’t, Miguel.”

He placed his hands up in surrender.

“If he can’t do that for you, I will.”

Yeah, cause my husband would just love that. Jesus, be a therapist. I need Iyanla to come and fix my life, bruh.

“I Can Understand Why You Want A Divorce Now. Though I Can’t Let You Know It, Pride Won’t Let Me Show It.

-Jay Z.

Rio had been sitting in his bar for a few hours. Though the argument made him even more aggravated, he took your advice. He wasn’t in the mood to take a chance at catching a DUI. Rio instructed Mick to drive him home.

He swaggered into the family room and lounged on the couch. The house was painfully quiet without your presence. Rio’s thoughts drifted to you as his chest tightened at the thought of you being in danger. Sighing, he closed his eyes in an attempt to shake the negative thoughts. Your scent still lingered throughout the house. Nothing seemed to help him shake the memories and intrusive thoughts. His eyes fluttered open, nostrils flaring. Rio was trying to be patient with you, but it was starting to wear thin. You could be mad for however long, but divorce was out of the question. Could he do a better job at loving you? Yes, and he was willing to do so. Would you be willing to give him another chance? 

Rio’s buzz had started to wear off. Blowing out a breath, he stared at a picture of you two. The frame on the console table contained a photo from your first anniversary. Shaking his head, he stood up and walked over to the bar cart. Throwing back another glass of brown liquor, he fixed one more and reclaimed his seat. He asked Alexa to play a specific song. The lyrics hit home as he nodded to the beat and recited them. Song Cry by Jay Z flowed through the entertainment system.

“They say you can’t turn a bad girl good, but once a good girl’s gone bad, she’s gone forever. Mourn forever. Shit, I gotta live with the fact I did you wrong forever.”

What happened to everybody deserves a second chance, mama? Damn, I miss my wife.

Sis can't catch a break, huh lovelies😩😆? I hope you all enjoyed part three. More drama to come in part four! I can't wait for you all to read what happens next. Can't say for sure when part four will be done and ready for posting. I'm still taking things slow. Please, please, please love, reblog, and comment. I would love to hear from you all. My ask box is open as well. I missed y'all, man!

Be sure to check out the playlist I created for this fic. It's on both Apple Music and Spotify. The links are towards the top of this post (in case you missed. Still adding to it, so if you have any song suggestions just drop an ask. The playlist is pretty lengthy and it's best on shuffle in my opinion. Thank you once again for all the support. Words can't express how appreciative I am. Love y'all🥹🫶🏾! Keep scrolling for another bomb-ass mood board (saved it for the end so it wouldn't spoil the reveal)🥰.

Divider Credit: @firefly-graphics

Taglist:

@4everbrookemarie @nightlywords7 @amorestevens @rio-reid-whoreee @abcdestinyyyy @hihellogoodbyebruh @sunshine-flower @lemmewritesomeish @catxo @naughtyslashers @realhotgurlshit @peaches007 @gardenof-venus @aizawash0e @minton131 @novaniskye @90sisthenew80s @cjricks98 @skyesthebomb @myownworstenemydw @lifeofthelovelyone @tashawar @gabbywontlose @skelly-baby @adg1115 @blessedboo @fandomcitysstuff @drinaj @being-worthy @sxkxna @elliesrealgf @batgurl42 @gotbeefbitch-blog @thedopestblackgirl @imjustheretoreads-blog @memeaaaa @djconde58 @astoldbychae @fineanddandy @1andonlytashae @alertyoulikeitsamber @blackmissfrizzle @darqchilddaydreamz @heytaewrites

[iheartbookbran]

Also ngl I kinda love the concept of Debling courting Penelope and Colin getting jealous because of it, not because I ship it (he’s barely a character) or because I’m part of the crowd that wants to see Colin ~suffer (though I’m not opposed to seeing him dramatically yearn), but because the reason Penelope specifically is going after this vegan man is so fascinating to me. Like, she obviously doesn’t love him. But she will marry him to protect LW… she’ll marry him to please Portia, that’s so funny.

Girl’s so desperate to escape her awful family life while at the same time keeping her secret, but she also wants her mother’s approval. And she’s so caught up in that toxic mindset that she completely misses the guy she’s been in love with since childhood making heart eyes at her from across the ballroom.

Pen only has her parents’ terrible marriage as a frame of reference, so she probably thinks it’s a bonus if her future husband is much older than her because that could make her a young widow. He’ll leave the country for the majority of the year to fuck off to Antarctica? Oh to be left alone by your own life partner!!!

Meanwhile Portia is enthusiastically nodding behind Penelope like yes, perhaps he’ll die at sea, and neither of them think there’s anything wrong with this outlook in life.

Hilarious.