#because a premiere softly creeping

[linklethehistorian]

Counting down to “That special series I adore will no longer be able to be my beloved little well-protected secret” in T minus 19 days.

[paxtito]

secret door

pairings: jenna x fem!reader

word count: 4936

warnings: smut 18+, fingering, kissing- that’s about it

summary: you’re not famous so attending your first event (mexico beetlejuice, beetlejuice premiere) with jenna was nerve racking

a/n: so, so bad at summaries. this is for the anon who wanted more jenna content and the other anon who wanted smuttt— twas not originally gonna be smutty but — everything i touch turns to smut — #poetic

MASTERLIST

The hotel suite buzzes with activity. Jenna sits at the vanity, her makeup artist carefully blending a soft shimmer onto her eyelids. She’s wearing a silk robe, her deep teal leather dress hanging nearby, waiting to transform her into the star of the night.

Her stylist, Enrique, circles the room, picking at details, double-checking accessories, and adjusting the angle of her shoes laid out by the full-length mirror. Meanwhile, you’re standing by the suite’s other mirror as a tailor pins the last adjustments to your suit.

You glance at Jenna through the reflection, watching as she talks with her team, that familiar mix of excitement and focus lighting up her expression. She catches your gaze and smiles softly, the kind of smile that feels like it’s meant just for you, even with all these people around.

“How’s the suit looking?” Jenna asks, her voice cutting through the gentle hum of conversation.

You turn to face her, straightening your jacket. The tailor steps back, allowing you to move freely. “It’s coming together,” you reply, running a hand down the lapel. The suit is sharp—deep teal with subtle leather accents along the cuffs and collar, designed to complement Jenna’s dress without competing with it.

Enrique claps his hands dramatically. “It’s more than coming together,” he exclaims. “You look fantastic.”

Jenna tilts her head, her eyes scanning you from head to toe. “He’s right,” she says, her lips curving into a grin. “You look incredible.”

You feel a blush creeping up your neck and try to brush it off with a playful smirk. “Not bad for a first-timer, huh?”

“Not bad at all,” Jenna replies, her voice warm.

Her makeup artist steps back, admiring her work. “Done! You’re all set, Jenna.”

Jenna stands, tying the belt of her robe before walking over to you. Up close, she’s even more breathtaking—her hair styled to perfection, her makeup subtle yet striking. She places a hand on your chest, right over your heart, and looks up at you.

“Are you ready for this?” she asks softly.

You exhale, the weight of the evening settling over you. You’re not famous, not used to the flashing cameras and crowded red carpets. But then Jenna’s fingers curl slightly into the fabric of your suit, grounding you.

“As long as I’m with you,” you say, meeting her gaze, “I’m ready for anything.”

Her smile widens, and she leans in, pressing a quick kiss to your cheek. “Good. Because you’re going to blow them away.”

Enrique claps his hands again, pulling both of you back to the moment. “Alright, lovebirds, let’s get you dressed, Jenna! The car’s going to be here soon.”

Jenna winks at you before turning to Enrique. “Alright, alright, I’m coming!”

As she steps into her dress, you take a moment to compose yourself. Tonight isn’t just about her—it’s about the two of you, stepping into the spotlight together for the first time. And as nervous as you are, you can’t help but feel a swell of pride knowing you’ll be by her side.

A few minutes later, when Jenna emerges in her dress, the room falls quiet for a beat. She looks stunning, the deep teal leather hugging her figure perfectly, the details nodding subtly to the Beetlejuice theme.

“Wow,” you murmur, unable to stop the word from slipping out.

Jenna grins, brushing her fingers against your arm as she passes. “You’re not so bad yourself,” she teases, though there’s a sparkle in her eyes that tells you she means it.

As the two of you head out, hand in hand, you can’t help but think that no matter how many cameras flash or how loud the crowd gets, the only thing that really matters is the way she looks at you—like you’re the only person in the world.

The car ride to the premiere is a blur of laughter and nervous energy. Jenna keeps brushing her fingers against your thigh, a small gesture that sends shivers up your spine. She tells you stories from the set of Beetlejuice, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she recounts the behind-the-scenes antics.

When the car pulls up to the red carpet, you feel your heart rate kick up a notch. This is it—the big moment. Jenna squeezes your hand, her skin warm against yours.

“Remember, breathe,” she says, her voice low and soothing. “And if it gets too overwhelming, just find me in the crowd. I’ll be looking for you.”

You nod, drawing strength from her calm presence. As the car door opens, the flashes of cameras and the shouts of fans hit you like a wave. Jenna steps out first, her dress swishing around her legs as she takes in the scene. She turns back to you, her hand extended.

“Come on,” she says, her smile wide and infectious. “Let’s do this.”

You take her hand, letting her pull you out of the car. The world seems to spin for a moment, a kaleidoscope of colors and noise. Jenna keeps hold of your hand as she leads you towards the mass of reporters and photographers.

She stops every few feet, posing for photos and answering questions with ease. You hover slightly behind her, trying not to be trampled by the flood of people. Every so often, Jenna glances back at you, her eyes checking in, making sure you’re still there.

When it’s your turn to pose together, she wraps an arm around your waist, pulling you close. The cameras go wild, the flashes nearly blinding. Jenna leans in, her lips brushing your ear as she whispers, “You’re doing great.”

Her words settle something inside you, and you stand a little taller, a little prouder. As the night goes on, you find yourself relaxing into the role of being by her side. When Jenna introduces you to her co-stars and friends, she does so with a casual intimacy that makes you feel like you belong.

After what feels like hours, the red carpet portion of the evening finally winds down. Jenna leads you into the theater, her hand still clasped tightly in yours. The cool darkness of the space is a welcome reprieve from the hot glare of the lights outside.

As you take your seats, Jenna leans over, her breath warm against your ear. “Thanks for being here tonight,” she says softly. “It means a lot to me.”

You turn to face her, taking in the way the dim light plays across her features. “I wouldn’t miss it for the world,” you reply, your voice barely above a whisper.

The movie starts, and for the next two hours, you find yourself lost in the world of Beetlejuice. Jenna’s performance is captivating, her ability to blend comedy and depth leaving you awestruck. Every so often, you catch her glancing at you from the corner of her eye, a small smile playing on her lips.

When the credits roll, the audience erupts into applause. Jenna stands, pulling you up with her. She leans in, pressing a soft kiss to your cheek before pulling back to take in the standing ovation.

As the crowd begins to disperse, Jenna tugs at your hand. “Come on,” she says, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “Let’s get out of here.”

Jenna leads you through the quiet door, the sudden silence a stark contrast to the bustling energy of the theater. You find yourself in a small courtyard, the walls draped with lush greenery and the air heavy with the scent of jasmine.

She turns to face you, her eyes searching yours. “I needed a moment away from all that,” she says, gesturing vaguely back towards the main event. “Just the two of us.”

You nod, understanding all too well the pressure of being constantly in the public eye. “I get it,” you reply, reaching out to brush a stray lock of hair from her face. “It’s nice to breathe.”

Jenna leans into your touch, her eyes fluttering closed for a moment. When she opens them again, there’s a new intensity in her gaze. “Yeah,” she says softly. “It’s nice to breathe with you.”

She takes a step closer, her body almost pressing against yours. Your heart races at the proximity, at the way her eyes drop to your lips for the briefest of moments.

Jenna's eyes meet yours, a silent question hanging in the air between you. You answer by leaning in, closing the distance until your lips are a mere breath apart. She exhales, her breath mingling with your own, and then you're kissing, soft and slow at first, then deeper, more urgent.

Her hands come up to cup your face, her fingers tangling in your hair as she pulls you closer. You respond by wrapping your arms around her waist, molding her body against yours. The kiss goes on for a long moment, the rest of the world fading away until it's just the two of you, lost in each other.

Finally, Jenna pulls back, her chest heaving. She looks up at you, her eyes dark and half-lidded. "Wow," she breathes, a small smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. "That was..."

"Incredible," you finish for her, your voice rough. "You're incredible."

She ducks her head, a blush staining her cheeks. "I'm not the only one," she murmurs, her fingers toying with the lapel of your suit. "You look pretty amazing yourself."

You grin, pulling her back into your arms. "I guess we make a pretty good team, huh?"

"The best," she agrees, pressing a soft kiss to your jaw. "Now, what do you say we explore this beautiful city? I hear the food here is to die for."

You grin at Jenna's suggestion, your eyes roaming over her figure appreciatively. "Food sounds amazing," you agree, "but first, I think we need to change out of these fancy clothes. I'm not sure I can eat a taco in a leather suit without looking ridiculous."

Jenna laughs, the sound bright and melodic in the quiet courtyard. "Good point," she says, smoothing down the front of her dress. "Though I have to say, you wear it well."

You wink at her, enjoying the way her cheeks flush at the compliment. "Thanks, but I think I'd rather be in something more comfortable. Plus, I don't want to risk getting any salsa on this thing. Enrique would have a heart attack."

"True," Jenna agrees, glancing down at her own outfit. "I'm not sure I can handle the stares if we waltz into a taqueria looking like this."

You take her hand, lacing your fingers with hers. "Then let's find somewhere to change. I'm sure there's a shop nearby where we can pick up something a little more casual."

"Ooh, shopping!" Jenna exclaims, her eyes lighting up. "Now you're speaking my language. Lead the way, miss fashionista."

You laugh, pulling her along as you exit the courtyard. The cool night air feels good on your skin, and you can't help but feel a sense of excitement at the prospect of exploring the city with Jenna by your side.

As you walk, you keep up a steady stream of chatter, pointing out interesting shops and restaurants as you pass. Jenna listens attentively, asking questions and sharing her own thoughts. It's easy to forget, in moments like these, that she's a famous actress. Right now, she's just Jenna—your Jenna—and that's all that matters.

As you and Jenna walk down the street, you suddenly freeze, your eyes widening in horror. "Did you see that?" you gasp, your hand tightening around Jenna's.

She follows your gaze, her brow furrowing in confusion. "See what?"

You point a shaky finger at a dark shape scurrying along the sidewalk. "That! That rat!"

Jenna squints, then bursts out laughing. "Y/N, that's not a rat. It's just a sock."

You blink, realizing she's right. The "rat" is indeed just a stray piece of fabric, fluttering in the breeze. You feel your face flush with embarrassment.

"Oh," you say lamely, trying to regain your composure. "Right. A sock. Not a rat."

Jenna grins, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "You're cute when you're scared," she teases, bumping her shoulder against yours.

You roll your eyes, but can't help the small smile tugging at your lips. "Thanks," you reply dryly. "I think."

As you continue walking, you can't help but marvel at the way Jenna makes you feel—safe, cherished, and loved, even when you're being silly. With her by your side, you feel like you can face anything, even the threat of a sock-turned-rat.

After your close call with the sock-rat, you and Jenna make your way to a nearby clothing store. The shop is small but cozy, with racks of colorful clothes and friendly staff. You head to the changing rooms, each grabbing a few items to try on.

Inside the dressing room, you peel off the leather suit, feeling a sense of relief as the tight material slides off your skin. You opt for a pair of simple black sweatpants and a gray hoodie, the soft fabric a welcome change from the structured lines of your suit.

As you emerge from the changing room, you spot Jenna across the store, her arms laden with clothes. She's wearing a pair of ripped jeans and an oversized pink hoodie, her hair pulled back in a messy bun. She looks adorable, and you can't help but grin at the sight of her.

You make your way over to her, your own arms full of potential purchases. "Find anything good?" you ask, setting your clothes down on a nearby bench.

Jenna nods, holding up a pair of red sneakers. "These are perfect," she says, her eyes bright with excitement. "They'll go great with the jeans."

You help her try on a few more outfits, offering your opinion on each one. She does the same for you, her eyes roaming appreciatively over your body as you model hoodies and sweatshirts.

Finally, with bags full of new clothes, you pay for your purchases and step out into the night. The air feels fresh and cool, and you can't help but feel a sense of anticipation for the rest of the evening.

As you walk hand in hand, you glance over at Jenna, a smile playing on your lips. "Ready to find some food?" you ask, your stomach grumbling at the thought.

Jenna grins back at you, her eyes sparkling in the streetlights. "Lead the way," she says, giving your hand a squeeze. "I'm ready for whatever you have in mind."

You and Jenna wander through the bustling streets of Mexico City, the night air filled with the tantalizing aromas of street food and the lively chatter of locals. After a bit of exploration, you stumble upon a cozy little taqueria tucked away in a side alley. The smell of sizzling meat and warm tortillas draws you in like a magnet.

"This looks perfect," Jenna says, her eyes lighting up as she takes in the colorful decor and the inviting atmosphere.

You nod in agreement, your mouth watering at the thought of authentic Mexican cuisine. "Definitely. Let's check it out."

As you enter the restaurant, the hostess greets you with a warm smile. She leads you to a small table in the corner, the candlelight casting a soft glow over the checkered tablecloth. You settle into your seats, the menus already making your stomach rumble.

"Everything looks so good," Jenna sighs, her finger tracing the options. "I don't know what to choose."

You grin, leaning back in your chair. "Well, we could always share a few dishes. That way we get to try more things."

Jenna's eyes light up. "Ooh, I like the way you think. How about we start with some guacamole and chips, then maybe some tacos al pastor and enchiladas?"

"Sounds perfect," you agree, flagging down the waiter to place your order.

As you wait for the food to arrive, you and Jenna chat about the movie premiere, the different outfits you tried on, and your plans for the rest of your time in Mexico City. The conversation flows easily, punctuated by laughter and the occasional brush of hands across the table.

After a long evening of exploring Mexico City and indulging in delicious food, you and Jenna arrive back at your hotel room, exhausted but happy. You can barely keep your eyes open as you stumble through the door, kicking off your shoes and collapsing onto the plush sofa.

Jenna flops down next to you, her head landing on your shoulder. "That was amazing," she mumbles, her words slightly slurred with fatigue. "But I think I might have eaten too many tacos."

You chuckle, wrapping an arm around her waist. "You and me both," you agree, rubbing your stomach. "I thought I was going to burst."

Suddenly, there's a knock at the door. You both startle, your heads snapping up in surprise. The knock comes again, more insistent this time.

"Jenna? Y/N?" a voice calls from the other side. "Are you guys in there?"

You recognize the voice immediately—it's Enrique, Jenna's stylist. You exchange a glance with Jenna, your eyes wide with panic. You had completely forgotten that Enrique was expecting you back earlier.

"Uh, yeah, we're here!" you call out, your voice slightly strained. "Just give us a minute!"

You scramble off the couch, hastily straightening your clothes and running a hand through your hair. Jenna does the same, her movements slightly clumsy with exhaustion.

When you open the door, Enrique is standing there with a look of concern on his face. "Where have you two been?" he demands, his eyes narrowing. "You disappeared for hours! We were worried sick!"

You and Jenna exchange another glance, then burst into laughter, the events of the day catching up to you in a wave of hysteria.

"Sorry, sorry," Jenna gasps out between giggles, wiping tears from her eyes. "We got lost in the city and ended up on a taco crawl. We didn't mean to worry you!"

Enrique's stern expression softens, and he can't help but join in your laughter. "You two are impossible," he sighs, shaking his head.

As Enrique steps into the room, his eyes widen in surprise. "Wait a minute," he exclaims, his gaze flicking between you and Jenna. "What are you two wearing?"

You glance down at your outfit—a simple hoodie and sweatpants, a far cry from the designer leather suit Enrique had so painstakingly selected for you. Jenna looks similarly casual in her ripped jeans and oversized hoodie.

"Oh, uh, we went shopping," Jenna explains, a sheepish grin on her face. "We wanted something a little more comfortable for exploring the city."

Enrique's eyes narrow, his gaze sweeping over your casual attire with a critical eye. "Shopping?" he repeats, his tone a mix of disbelief and exasperation. "You two went shopping while you were supposed to be at the afterparty?"

You and Jenna exchange a guilty glance, suddenly feeling like naughty schoolchildren caught in the act. "Well," you begin, trying to find the right words, "we thought it would be nice to have something a little more practical for our time here in Mexico City. And we didn't want to get the fancy clothes dirty or ripped."

Enrique sighs, pinching the bridge of his nose. "I understand the practicality, but you should have at least let me know. I was starting to think you two had run off and eloped or something."

Jenna lets out a snort of laughter, quickly covering her mouth to stifle the sound. "Eloped? In Mexico City? On the same day as the premiere?" She shakes her head, her eyes sparkling with mirth. "If we were going to do that, we would have at least planned it better."

Enrique rolls his eyes, but you can see the hint of a smile tugging at his lips. "Very funny," he says dryly. "Just promise me you'll let me know next time you decide to go on a spontaneous shopping spree, okay?"

"We promise," you assure him, holding up your hands in a gesture of surrender. "No more disappearing acts without warning."

Enrique nods, seemingly satisfied with your response. "Alright then. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have some calls to make. I need to do damage control after your little stunt." He gives you both a mock glare before turning to leave.

As soon as he's gone, you and Jenna collapse onto the couch once again, dissolving into a fit of giggles. The exhaustion of the day catches up to you, and before you know it, you're fast asleep, your heads resting on each other's shoulders.

The morning sun filters through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the hotel room. You blink awake slowly, your eyes adjusting to the light. For a moment, you're disoriented, unsure of where you are. Then the memories of the previous night come flooding back—the premiere, the shopping trip, the delicious tacos.

You turn your head to the side, your gaze landing on Jenna. She's still fast asleep, her face relaxed and peaceful in the early morning light. Your heart skips a beat at the sight of her, and you can't help but smile.

Carefully, so as not to wake her, you shift closer, your bodies pressing together under the soft sheets. Jenna stirs slightly, her arm draping across your waist as she mumbles something unintelligible.

You let your fingers trace the curve of her cheek, marveling at the smoothness of her skin. In moments like these, it's hard to believe that she's a famous actress, that thousands of people adore her. To you, she's simply Jenna—your Jenna—the girl who makes your heart race and your soul sing.

As if sensing your thoughts, Jenna begins to stir. Her eyes flutter open, her gaze hazy with sleep. When she sees you watching her, a slow smile spreads across her face.

"Morning," she murmurs, her voice rough with sleep.

"Good morning," you reply softly, leaning in to press a gentle kiss to her forehead. "Sleep well?"

Jenna stretches languidly, a soft yawn escaping her lips. "Like a baby," she says, her voice still groggy. "You?"

"Pretty good," you reply, your fingers still tracing lazy patterns on her cheek. "Though I might have gotten used to this view."

Jenna's cheeks flush a soft pink, and she ducks her head shyly. "Flatterer," she teases, but you can see the pleased smile tugging at her lips.

You lean in, your forehead resting against hers. "I'm not flattering," you murmur. "I'm just stating facts."

Jenna's eyes sparkle with mirth, and she closes the distance between you, pressing her lips to yours in a soft, sweet kiss. You melt into it, your arms wrapping around her waist and pulling her closer.

The kiss deepens, growing more urgent as the morning haze lifts. Jenna's hands slip under your shirt, her touch sending shivers down your spine. You lose yourself in the sensation, in the feel of her body against yours, the taste of her lips.

After a long moment, you both pull back, breathless and smiling. Jenna's hair is mussed, her lips swollen, and you've never seen anything more beautiful.

"Wow," she breathes, her eyes dark with desire. "Good morning indeed."

You grin, your heart feeling full to bursting. "Breakfast?" you suggest, though your gaze lingers on her lips.

Jenna laughs, a sound of pure joy. "Food can wait," she says, pulling you back in for another kiss. "I'd rather savor this moment a little longer."

You lose yourself in Jenna's kiss, the rest of the world fading away until it's just the two of you, wrapped in each other's arms. Her lips are soft and insistent against yours, her tongue teasing the seam of your mouth until you part your lips to let her in.

A small moan escapes you as Jenna deepens the kiss, her hands sliding up your back to tangle in your hair. You can feel the heat of her body through the thin fabric of your sleep shirts, the curves of her hips pressing into your own.

Dimly, you register the sound of a phone buzzing somewhere in the room, a reminder of the outside world waiting beyond the closed door. But you push it aside, too lost in Jenna's embrace to care.

After a long moment, you both surfaced for air, your chests heaving. Jenna's eyes are dark, her pupils blown wide with desire. "I want you," she whispers, her voice low and husky. "I want you so badly."

Your heart races at her words, at the raw need in her voice. "I want you too," you breathe, your hands sliding down to cup her face. "So much."

Jenna takes your hand in hers, guiding it slowly down her body. Her skin is warm and soft beneath your fingertips, and you can feel the rapid beating of her heart as you trail your hand lower, over the swell of her breasts and the dip of her waist.

She lets out a soft gasp as your hand skims over the hem of her sleep shirt, dipping just beneath the fabric to brush against the smooth skin of her stomach. Her grip on your hand tightens, urging you higher, until your palm is cupping the weight of her breast.

You can feel her nipple hardening against your touch, the sensitive bud straining against the thin cotton of her shirt. Jenna arches into your hand, a soft moan escaping her lips as you knead her flesh.

"Please," she whimpers, her hips grinding against yours in a slow, deliberate motion. "Touch me, Y/N. Make me feel good."

Your own desire is a hot, pulsing need between your legs, but you force yourself to focus on Jenna, on bringing her pleasure. With a gentle tug, you pull her shirt up over her head, exposing the creamy expanse of her skin to your hungry gaze.

"You're so beautiful," you murmur, your hands skimming over the curve of her breasts, the dip of her waist, the flare of her hips. "I can't believe I get to touch you like this."

Jenna shivers under your touch, her skin pebbling with goosebumps as your hands explore every inch of her bare flesh. She reaches for you, tugging impatiently at the hem of your own sleep shirt, desperate to feel your skin against hers.

You comply eagerly, lifting your arms so she can pull the shirt over your head. As soon as it's gone, Jenna's hands are on you, tracing the contours of your chest, your stomach, your sides. She leans in, pressing hot, open-mouthed kisses along your collarbone, down the center of your chest, until she reaches the valley between your breasts.

You gasp at the sensation, your head falling back as Jenna's lips and tongue work their magic on your sensitive skin. Her hands slide lower, slipping beneath the waistband of your sleep shorts to cup your ass, pulling you harder against her.

The ache between your legs is growing, your clit throbbing with need, but you focus on the feel of Jenna's body against yours, the way she makes you feel cherished and desired. You slide your hand between your bodies, palming Jenna's breast, thumbing over her nipple until it's hard and straining.

Jenna moans into your skin, her hips bucking against your hand. "I need you," she pants, her voice rough with want. "Please, Y/N. I need to feel you."

Your own need is a pulsing heat, your panties damp with arousal. With trembling fingers, you slip your hand into Jenna's shorts, groaning at the wet heat of her. She's soaked, her folds swollen and slick with desire.

"Fuck," you breathe, circling her clit with your thumb. "You're so wet for me."

You slide your fingers through Jenna's slick folds, teasing her entrance with the tips of your fingers. She's so wet, so ready for you, and the knowledge sends a thrill of desire straight to your core.

Slowly, carefully, you push one finger inside her, groaning at the tight heat of her walls. Jenna bites her lip, her hips rolling in a slow grind against your hand as you work her open. Her inner muscles flutter around your digit, drawing you deeper.

"More," she whispers, her eyes dark and pleading. "Please, Y/N. I need more."

You add a second finger, curling them just so, brushing against that spot deep inside that makes her see stars. Jenna's breath hitches, a small moan escaping her lips as you stroke her most sensitive places.

You kiss her deeply, swallowing her whimpers as you finger her faster, harder, pushing her towards the edge. Her hips move in time with your hand, her thighs trembling with the force of her arousal.

"That's it," you murmur against her lips. "Let go for me, Jenna. Come for me."

Jenna shudders, her walls clenching around your fingers as she comes with a soft cry. Her orgasm washes over her in waves, her body shuddering and twitching as she rides out the pleasure.

You hold her close, your fingers gentling their movements as she comes down, pressing soft kisses to her neck and collarbone. When she finally stills, you withdraw your hand, bringing your fingers to your mouth to taste her essence.

Jenna watches you with heavy-lidded eyes, her lips parted and her chest heaving. "That was... incredible," she breathes, reaching out to tangle her fingers in your hair. "But I'm not done with you yet."

With a wicked grin, she pushes you onto your back, settling between your thighs. "Your turn," she purrs, her fingers hooking into the waistband of your shorts. "And I plan to take my time."

—

[writersblog20]

It’s okay, sweetheart

Pedro Pascal x reader

Credits to the gif makers!!!

Summary: When your period strikes, Pedro strikes back harder

Warnings: mention of fear of commitment, mention of always feeling alone, hints of neglection. Mention of being scared to let people in, period, cramps, and a whole lot of fluff

Words: 3,2K

It’s okay, sweetheart

You were traveling around the world with your co-star Pedro Pascal to give interviews about the upcoming new series that everyone was dying to see. You and Pedro hit it off great, like you’ve known each other your entire life and he was your comfort person. You’ve told him that and there was nothing wrong with it. in contrary even. “I’ve never gotten a better compliment sweetie. I love you too.” Was what he told you when you confessed how attached you were to him. “And I promise you, I’m not going anywhere.” So that’s how you got even closer to each other. You guys were inseparable. Where he went, you went and the other way around and if not, than you would facetime each other. You both had such a wholesome relationship, it was absolutly amazing

He was your safe space and he gladly took that spot with love. You weren’t afraid to tell him anything. You were used to pushing people away, sometimes even friends and you hated that. You wanted to trust people and let them in your ‘sacred garden’ but you just couldn’t and that was the same with relationships. You ended things before they could. It scared you to death but with Pedro it was different. He creeped up on you and slowly made his way to your heart and the moment you realized that he was standing next to you in your ‘sacred garden’, holding your hand tightly, you realized that you let him in. Let him love and care about you. it still scared you but Pedro radiated so much trust, love and care, it was something you’ve never experienced. You’ve kind off always been alone but not when Pedro came along. He held your heart on a golden plate. He was the first person you trusted 100% and where you weren’t scared or uncomfortable with. And trust me, that says a lot since you were almost from nature uncomfortable and awkward but not with Pedro and that was when you decided to open up and tell him everything. That’s when he made you that promise and you knew he would keep his word.

So you were finally done with the interviews and you would have a premiere to attend to and an after party but you felt physically a little off today, maybe because your period was on its way. You had cramps and they got worse with every passing second. It’s been a very long while since your period was this bad.  You and Pedro exited the room and he noticed how you crouched a little and put pressure on your stomach, trying your best to hide it but of course he would notice. He noticed everything, every discomfort, panic or whatever would bother you, he would notice.

“Hey, you okay sweetheart?” he asked you as he stopped next to you and placed his hand on your back. You bit your lip and tried to give a smile but Pedro gave you a stern look. “I have horrible cramps. I’ll just lie down when we’re back at the hotel before going to the premiere.” Pedro didn’t looked convinced but let it slide, wanting to bring you safe to your hotel room. “Alright, you set the pace okay?” he told you and brought your arm to his so he could link it and hold you. You nodded and carefully walked to the car.

When you were finally in the car, you brought your knees to you, hoping that would ease the pain a bit. Your arm was between your stomach and your leg, pushing pressure on the painful spot. Pedro sat next to you and softly went with his fingers over your scalp and placing so now and then kisses on your head. Luckily it didn’t took long when you arrived at the hotel. Pedro helped you up to your room and waited on your bed while you cleaned yourself a bit up in the bathroom and changed into pajamas. You had a plushy with you which you could heat up so it was a plushy and a heating pad in one. You were so happy that you had microwave in your room. You got out in Pedro’s oversized sweater that he gave you and joggings. You had the hoodie over your head and placed the plushy in the microwave and waited. “Go lay down sweetheart. I’ll take care of this.” he told you when he walked up to you, rubbing both of your upper arms with his hands.

You turned around and placed your arms around him for a hug. Pedro chuckled lovingly and pulled you in tighter. You weren’t really an affectionate person. You’ve said it before, you sometimes reminded yourself of Sheldon from the big bang theory. You didn’t mind a quick hug but you were so touched starved that a longer hug or any other type of affectionate felt unnatural because the last time you’ve had affectionate was from your mom and that stopped when you turned 10 years. So it was quite a while ago. Pedro on the other hand, was very affectionate and it scared you in the beginning because you didn’t know how to act or what to do and what I said earlier. It felt so unnatural. But you didn’t want it to stop and that’s how you learned to receive affection and give it back.

Pedro kissed the side of your head and led you to the bed. You crawled in with a groan from pain and worry took over the features on Pedro’s face. You laid down on your side, knees tucked towards your chest. Pedro got some painkillers and gave you a bottle of water. You smiled softly from gratitude. Pedro smiled and placed a kiss on your forehead. “Sweetheart, I think it’s better if you stay here tonight. Get some rest and try to get better. They’re going to be more premiers that we will attend. It’s not the end of the world if you stay in tonight.” Pedro tried to convince you as he sat on the side of the bed and softly rubbed your back.

The microwave pinged and he got the plushy out. It wasn’t the best heating pad (Because there was just a small pad in the plushy) but it was better than nothing at all. You thought about what Pedro said and you had to be honest with yourself. You weren’t seeing it happen anytime soon and walking crouched down on a red carpet was not a great look. “I think your right…” you mumbled and Pedro looked at you while walking back. He placed the covers away for a second and looked for your consent, making you nod. He carefully lifted up your hoodie and placed it over your shirt that you were wearing underneath the hoodie. He looked at you if he placed it right and you nodded again. He got the covers up and tucked you lovingly in.

“You take your time and rest princesa. You’ve worked hard enough. I’ll let them know okay? You go and rest now mhm?” you gave him a weak smile but felt grateful that Pedro would take care of it. “Thank you P!” Pedro just smiled adoringly at you and kissed the top of your nose and after, your forehead. “You have fun okay? And drink one for me.” Pedro smiled. “I will. I’m gonna miss you but see you later okay?” you nodded “You completely comfortable? Need something else? Can I do something for you? You need stuff from the store or…” you stopped Pedro from rambling with a chuckle “I’m good P, thank you. Have fun!” Pedro smiled again and gave you a last kiss before exiting the room. You scrolled a bit through Youtube but you fell asleep fairly quick.

You woke up from your hotel room opening and closing. You quickly looked up, not expecting someone to come in but as soon as you saw Pedro, you smiled and felt relieved, that was until you realized he wasn’t supposed to be back yet. “Hi….” you said softly, you haven’t moved since Pedro left the room earlier. “Wasn’t expecting you back.” you told him. He still had his suit on and he looked dashing. “I’m skipping the afterparty. The’re more to come, besides, I want to be with you.” You smiled and felt your heart fill up with love. You weren’t alone anymore because of Pedro. And he meant that.

“So…. I got some stuff from the store on my way back.” he told you and placed the bags on the bed. You sat up with a lot of groaning and Pedro was by your side in no time to help you sit up. He placed the pillow straight up so you could rest your back against it. You curiously tried to look in the bag but Pedro pulled it towards him with a smile. “So I figured that this heating plushy isn’t doing too much for you, so I got you 3 extra…..” you looked surprised at the amount while he got them out. One was a bunny, the other a pink bear and the last one, he kept in the bag. “And now my favorite…” he told you and got Grogu out of the bag. You were surprised but you had the biggest smile on your face and that was all Pedro wanted. He smiled at your reaction. “I didn’t even knew these existed but I thought you might like it.” he told you and gave them to you. 1 plushy was already bigger than yours so the fact he got you 3…. That was just too sweet.

“P, this is too much! Thank you! but why so many?” you chuckled out. “Couldn’t choose and I liked them all.” you chuckled and couldn’t wipe away the smile off your face. “Besides! This one smells like eucalyptus” he told you excited when he held Grogu up. “And this one smells like lavender” he got the pink bear up. “And this one smells like patchouli!” he told you, holding the bunny. Pedro sat next to you and you reached your arms out to hug him. Pedro chuckled and scooted closer to you and held you lovingly in his arms, softly rubbing your back. “Thank you so much! You have no idea how much this means to me.” Pedro kissed the side of your head. “You are more than welcome princesa. Trust me, it’s my pleasure.”

“Oh and I got you some other stuff.” He told you and reached in the brown bag. “ginger, some painkillers, fruit, fruitjuices, and snacks if you’re up for it and I didn’t know if you still had any left but I took some pads with me.” he told you and looked at you, only to see you with a big smile. “Thank you… really.” Pedro shrugged. “It’s fine sweetie, really. You don’t have to thank me anymore.” He told you with a chuckle and kissed the top of your head. “How did you know that I had to get my period? Besides the cramps of course.” You asked him. “We’ve been on the road for a while now, so I kind of know when you have to get your period” He chuckled while scratching his neck. It was sweet really, besides that just showed you how much in tune he was with you and the small things you showed from discomfort and how fast he picked up on them, while for some people it would take years and even then, you could be a closed book.

“So I was thinking…. I get changed into something I can breathe…” you were already laughing, knowing that Pedro found the suit a bit too tight but it worked. “And after, I get my laptop and we watch something on Netflix. Let me take care of you.” he told you casually as he rubbed your back. you smiled and wanted nothing more. “That sounds really nice, I’d like that.” You still learned to be vulnerable around people and letting Pedro in like this and let him take care of you, was something you extremely missed and it was the first step in the right direction. Pedro smiled at you. “Alright. I’ll be back in a sec princesa.” He quickly excited your room and you got the plushies in your arms, smelling them. You LOVED the Grogu heating plushy.

It didn’t took him long before he got back in his pajamas. He placed some of the stuff in your small fridge and put the kettle on so he could make you some fresh ginger tea and got the plushies out of your hands, placing them one after the other in the microwave until they were nice and warm. He placed them besides you and on your stomach. Obviously you held Grogu tight. Pedro smiled when he saw you cuddling Grogu. “I love them all but this one is my favorite.” He chuckled. “I figured and to be honest, I would be butthurt if it wasn’t.” you chuckled.

Pedro got the tea and placed it next to you and gave you some stronger painkillers with more water. “You’ve got to drink more water sweetheart.” You knew he was right so you took some good gulps and placed it besides you again. “Good job.” He praised you casually and kissed the top of your head before getting comfortable next to you. He helped you getting the pillow right again. Pedro held out his arm so you could cuddle up to him. You let your head rest on his shoulder and partly chest. His arm going around you, his fingertips already back at your head and he tucked the covers more up. “Comfortable princesa?” he asked you and you just nodded.

You and Pedro choose out a movie that you both wanted to watch. You sat up to drink your tea for a moment and lied back down. “How was the premier by the way?” you asked him curious. “Boring… you weren’t there.” you smiled softly. Pedro chuckled “It was fine. The usual. You didn’t miss much but I missed you.” you crawled closer to Pedro. “Thank you for coming back ya know” you told him softly. Pedro went over your head. “Always sweetheart. Always.” You turned your focus back on the tv and halfway through the movie Pedro touched the plushies and got up. You looked questioningly at him. “I’ll warm them up again for you.” You smiled and whispered a small thank you as you handed him the plushies.

He got some fresh fruit that was cut up out of the fridge and handed it to you. “Try to eat something sweetie.” Pedro helped you sit up a little bit and got you comfortable again by tucking you in again and propping the pillow up. You felt spoiled even though it was normal to take care of someone who was sick, you were just used to do it yourself. You were glad that you were learning to open up with Pedro. You didn’t want it to be someone else. He carefully placed the plushies back while you ate some fruit.

He laid back down next to you and stole some fruit. You smiled and shared some fruit with him while you rested your side against his. You didn’t want to eat anymore so you waited for Pedro to finish and in the meanwhile you let your head rest on your shoulder. You felt his head slightly leaning against yours and you felt so very loved in that moment that you felt it radiate through your entire being. It felt warm like a nice hug without the actual hug.

When Pedro finished, you both laid back down again. Until you felt the cramps coming back at a high speed. You squeezed your eyes tightly shut and sat up straight, worrying Pedro in the meantime. You put your hand on your stomach and put pressure on the spot. Pedro felt helpless, looking at you when you were in so much pain and he couldn’t do anything about it broke his heart. He just kept rubbing your back and when he saw that a tear escaped the corner of your eye, he scooted closer to you and pulled you carefully into his body, resting his chin on your head as he tried to comfort you through the pain, placing kisses on your head and softly rocking you both.

“Can I try something princesa?” he asked you. You reluctantly nodded. “You trust me right?” you nodded again. “Okay, lay down sweetheart.” You did as he asked and Pedro laid down next to you. “I’m going with my hand underneath your shirt if you’re okay with that and rub your tummy and put some pressure where the cramp is. It used to help me when I was younger and was sick. Are you okay with that?” he asked you, knowing it was a step closer to letting him in and he new you found that scary. You nodded, wanting to try anything that could help. Pedro looked at you again for once again, consent. Which you gave him. His hand was big and warm underneath your shirt. “Where are the cramps exactly?” he asked you.

You grabbed his hand and let him to the horrible spot that pained you so much. Pedro immediately put pressure on the spot and you the cramps ebbed away and it felt like you could take a proper breathe again. “This works.” You remarked a little out of breathe from the pain. “Good, that’s good.” He told you and got one of the heavier plushies and placed it besides his hand on your stomach. His thumb softly rubbing your tummy and normally you would feel extremely insecure but not this time. It felt so nice, warm and safe that you didn’t care anymore. Besides, it stopped the pain. You covered Pedro’s hand with your own. Pedro linked your fingers through each other and you felt your body relax again, thank to Pedro.  

You haven’t felt so content, relaxed and peaceful in so long that you didn’t want to fall asleep. You wanted this moment to last forever so you tried to fight against your heavy eyelids. The warmth coming from the plushies, the body heat of Pedro and the closeness of it all enveloped you whole, making it hard to stay awake in such a relaxing state. You opened your eyes when you felt and heard Pedro softly chuckle, who was clearly keeping an eye on you and saw you fight against your sleep. “It’s okay princesa. Close your eyes, I’ll be right here when you wake up. I won’t go anywhere okay?” you nodded, too tired to speak up. You closed your eyes and felt Pedro softly tighten his fingers with yours as a confirmation that it was okay. He softly placed his lips to your forehead and lingered them there for a bit before placing a kiss.

You got more comfortable, your head resting on Pedro’s chest slightly, eyes already closed and it didn’t took long before a peaceful deep sleep brought you over to dreamland, handing over the best dreams to you.

[thegettingbyp2]

Just wanna say real quick I love your fics!! And if you're still doing requests what about fem reader x Knoxville and them dealing with the paparazzi. Reader gets super overwhelmed by them but Knox is always there and protective of reader. 🥺💕

One Hand to Drive

Johnny Knoxville x reader

A/N: Thank you!! I wrote this using my experience with anxiety because it's what I know (sorry if it's not what you were hoping for!) feel free to send in any other requests you have, at the moment I write for Brandon Flowers, Johnny Knoxville, Steve Harrington and Anthony Bridgerton :)

My relationship with Johnny Knoxville is the best relationship that I’ve ever been in. Everything just feels easy when I’m around him and despite what fans see on the TV when they watch him in Jackass, he’s so careful around me, making sure that I’m okay and comforting me when I see him get hurt doing a stunt.

The only downside to this relationship was the fact that we’re right in the middle of the public eye. With Jackass being so popular, people are constantly coming up to Johnny in the street which is completely fine, Johnny loves meeting his fans and he’s always so nice to them. However, for every nice person that approaches him on the street you have herds of paparazzi following our every move and other fans coming up to flirt with him, sometimes right in front of me. Every time, Johnny turns it into a joke and lets them down easily but it still makes me feel a bit crappy.

Me and Johnny were walking hand in hand down the street, enjoying a rare afternoon we both have off together. We’d gone for lunch before Johnny insisted that he wanted to buy me a gift, not taking no for an answer so I’d dragged him into my favourite bookshop and chose a book, now we were heading home.

‘Nice day?’ he asked.

‘Nice day,’ I replied, ‘thank you for my book, you know you didn’t have to get me anything though.’

‘I wanted to treat my girl, if I had my way, I’d have gotten you something different from a book.’

‘Yeah, well I love it.’

‘I love you.’

‘I love you too,’ I smiled as he stopped us in the middle of the street and leaned down to kiss me sweetly. One of my hands still in his, I put my other hand on his forearm as he heard them.

‘Johnny! Over here!’

Johnny sighed lightly as he cheated his body to cover me from the cameras, ‘sorry darlin,’ he said softly.

‘It’s fine,’ I said, feeling my anxiety start to creep up my chest and I knew Johnny saw the change in my body language because he squeezed my hand tighter, letting me know he was still here.

We carried on walking down the street, not acknowledging the paparazzi as they continued to follow us, shouting questions at both me and Johnny.

‘Where have you been?’

‘When are we seeing the next Jackass film?’

‘Is it true you and (Y/N) are moving in together?’

‘Just ignore them darlin,’ Johnny said in my ear as they started to get closer to us, trying to get us to answer their questions.

By this time, my anxiety had skyrocketed and my hand had begun to shake slightly in Johnny’s hand. Noticing this, Johnny pulled me around so I was walking directly in front of him, both his arms now reaching round my body, keeping me close but giving himself enough space so he wouldn’t trip over me, his hand never leaving mine. As soon as I felt myself surrounded by Johnny, I felt my heartrate begin to slow, comforted by the scent of cigarettes, mint toothpaste and Johnny’s cologne.

By the time we reached the car, my heart had completely gone back to normal and I’d partially relaxed in Johnny’s arms.

‘Sorry about that darlin, I didn’t think they’d be around today,’ Johnny said as he started up the car, still holding my hand.

‘It’s not your fault, Johnny and I can handle them most of the time like at your premieres, it’s just when I’m not expecting them, I don’t know, it just freaks me out,’ I said, disentangling our hands as he started driving.

‘Woah what you doing darlin,’ he said, chasing my hand back, linking our fingers once again and pulling my hand over to rest in his lap, keeping control of the car with one hand, ‘I only need one hand to drive.’

[weirdkittenhere]

Lost chance

Fandom: Tears of Themis

Paring: Artem x f!reader

Genre: a tiny bit of angst at the beginning and then fluffffffff

Synopsis: A new rookie at the firm was starting to be a bit too friendly with y/n and Artem did not like that.

A/N: Very self-indulged

w/c: ~1,5k

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There you were again. Standing there with that gorgeous smile of yours. The only problem was that it wasn’t aimed at him. He sighed silently, praying for the coffee machine to work faster so he wouldn’t have to look at you much longer. He has a coffee machine in his office but he still goes to the pantry every time, as a habit. A habit, he developed so he can see you more often. Even though you're partners and you’re seeing each other most of the time, he wanted more. Even if he wasn’t able to admit it, he enjoyed spending time with you, a bit more for it to be just a work relationship.

That was until the new rookie appeared at the firm, and started to fawn all over you all the time. You were talking, laughing, and generally looked like you enjoyed each other's company. He was doing all the things Artem was too scared or embarrassed to do. And it was killing him seeing you so happy because of someone else. Every time he sees you together, his heart breaks a little.

“You should’ve made a move before. Now you lost your chance, coward” he thought to himself, swallowing the bitterness in his throat. He took his cup and went to his office, not looking in your direction anymore.

After some time while he was burying himself with work to stop thinking about you, you went through the door of your shared office with a loud sigh. You plopped onto your desk chair and hid your face in your hands. That worried him a little.

“Something happened?” He frowned forgetting about his work and you sighed again

“Sorry, It’s nothing related to work I’m just… tired”

“If you want you can take a break for the rest of the day. We don’t have anything urgent, I can drive you home and-” You interrupted him.

“No no, I’m not tired because of work.” You hesitated. You didn’t think it would be appropriate to talk about your personal problems with your superior, but on the other hand, after such a long time of working with him and sharing so many conversations about private matters too, you really wanted to let out what was bothering you. You sighed again. “It’s this new guy, John.” He perked up at this name, his grip on the pen tighten. “He’s starting to be… annoying.” He blinked a few times. But you were so happy talking with him? And now you're saying he annoys you? “I’m- sorry I shouldn’t have talked about my personal problems” You shook your head

“No no!” He exclaimed a bit too loud to his liking. He coughed. “I’m… happy to listen to anything you have to say if it helps you.” He couldn't lose another chance. You smiled gently at his words, feeling soft inside.

“Well then... he was funny at first, but now he just… he’s desperately trying to go out with me even though I said no multiple times. But he’s so persistent and tells me that I'll change my mind when I get to know him. He just can’t understand that I'm not interested!” You got carried away and almost yelled the last part. “Sorry I went off the deep end” You looked away a bit embarrassed. Meanwhile, Artem was fuming from his seat. He took a deep breath and tried very hard to keep his cool.

“I’m glad you told me this. If he starts bothering you again, don’t be afraid to come to me and I’ll... talk to him about it. You won’t have to deal with him anymore” You looked at him shocked and blinked a few times

“Artem, it’s fine, he’s just annoying that’s all”

“No. You told him clearly no and he keeps pushing you instead of accepting your decision. I won’t let him disrespect anyone at the firm, especially y-... my employees.” He coughed trying to hide what almost slipped through his mouth.

“I- don’t know what to say.” You said shyly, couldn’t hide a smile from your face. “Thank you, Artem”

“Don’t mention it. It’s nothing” He shook his head turning back to the computer screen to his neglected work. Ironically, he feels a lot better knowing you're not interested in him and he has new hope. And this time, he won't lose his chance.

The next day he arrived at the firm and, as usual, went straight to his office. Going through the pantry he saw the person he wanted to see the most, y/n and your infamous colleague, but after your talk yesterday, he wasn’t sulking while looking at you anymore. When he wanted to greet you and continue his way to the office, you called out to him with a pleading gaze, which alerted him.

“Hello Artem, John was just talking about a new movie premiere this weekend, I was thinking we could go as a group with other people from the firm? What do you think?” You said with a polite smile, but John grabbed your arm and gently took you aside before he could answer.

“Please excuse us for a moment.” He said but Artem had no intention of leaving you both alone, especially after seeing how uncomfortable you looked and how you tried to stop him from touching you.

“I apologize, but that’s something I can’t do.” He answered immediately, freeing you from his grip, and shielding you behind him. Before John was able to protest, Artem looked at him with a sharp, cold gaze and frowning his brows. He looked so intimidating, the guy was only able to swallow his saliva “I don’t recall her giving you permission to touch her like that. Moreover, I believe she already refused your invitations on going out on multiple occasions, no? Aside from that, if you can’t tell when a lady is clearly uncomfortable in your presence, I advise you not to bother them, until you learn how to respect them. In summary, leave her alone, and grow up before you try to approach any other woman. Do I make myself clear?” The guy was so flabbergasted, he only managed to nod his head. “Good. Because next time I might not be able to keep calm like this.” He loosened his fist he didn’t even realize he clenched and turned around to face y/n. He gently took your wrist, wary of your reaction, and went in the direction of the office. You were only able to look at him from the side with admiration, completely stunned.

When you arrived at the destination, he released your arm and after a few seconds of silence he spoke

“I’m… sorry if I overstep your boundaries. I got carried away.” While he was thinking about his next words, you coughed gently, a shade of pink dusting your cheeks.

“No no, you didn’t do anything wrong. I’m thankful you intervened. He was starting to be more and more pushy.” You spoke softly, averting your gaze.

“Are you ok? He didn’t do anything to you?” He stepped closer to you, taking your hands into his and inspecting your silhouette, worried what he might have done to you.

“No, I’m fine. Thank you again, really.” You looked up at him, into his mesmerizing azure eyes. You drowned in them for a second, your cheeks becoming a bit redder.

“Don’t mention it. I’m glad you're okay” He smiled softly, his thumbs gently stroking knuckles on your hands. His heart almost explodes in his chest while he’s looking into your eyes. The temperature in this room rose to dangerous values and only then, he realized what he was doing. His cheeks instantly became bright red, he dropped your hands and stepped aside turning around to his desk, coughing harshly. You covered your red face with one hand, the other grabbed the wall to support your weak knees.

“Well then!” He finally said “I’ll send you a few files that I found concerning Mrs. Tailor’s case”

“erm… Artem?”

“Yes?” He said not looking at you. Then you took a deep breath and mustered all the courage you had left in your body.

“About the movie premiere this weekend… do you… wanna go with me?” Your head was turned right and you weren't looking at him. However, your words made him perk up in slight surprise and he looked at you, wanting to make sure he heard that correctly.

“I’d love to” He couldn’t stop the smile on his face. His, almost instant response, made you give him a quick peek with a blush on your face and a smile creeping up on your lips as well.

After that, both of you came back to work, but couldn’t stop your racing hearts at a thought of the weekend.

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©weirdkittenhere 2021

Thanks for reading <3

[skiesofthesketchy]

Stood Up {1}

Pairing: JJ Maybank x reader

Summary: You have a date with your friend that you’ve liked forever, but he never shows up.

Note: Heyyyyy Please read the warnings before proceeding. This is one of the darker things I’ve ever written, and it might trigger some people so please be careful. I’m usually a fluff writer but I’ve been feeling... ya know, down lately so this is what I made. I’m working on the second part to Unsend still, but haven’t been in the mood lately so sorry it’s taking so long!

Let me know what you think! :)

Word Count: 6.5k

Stood Up: {Part 2} / { Part 3}

WARNINGS: Violence and abuse! sexual violence! trauma! swearing, angst

WARNINGS: Violence and abuse! sexual violence! trauma! swearing, angst

***

Y/N’s P.O.V.

10:00 PM

I pulled my sweater tighter against me when I felt a small burst of wind, the chill making goosebumps surface on my bare legs. I looked left and right down the black street, but nobody was around. It was quiet, almost silent besides dried leaves scraping against the pavement, and the only light was the orange glow from the street lamps and the red neon sign above my head casting onto the empty street. It was a nice night, even with the cool breeze, but I could feel my nerves kicking in.

I tried to remain optimistic though. Maybe he’s just running late... I pulled out my phone again to see if JJ had texted me back, but he hadn’t.

On my way! See in you 20 :)

I sighed, looking at the last text I sent him. I only sent it hoping to remind him that we had plans tonight in case he forgot. He always forgets. 

‘He’s just a forgetful person,’ I tell myself for what feels like the thousandth time. It’s usually that phrase that makes me feel better, or ‘He’s got a lot going on.’ I never make it a big deal when he misses our plans, even though it feels like a small piece of my heart breaks off and dies every time it happens. 

‘This time is different though,’ I told myself. It was just yesterday that I mentioned the movie theater was showing a bunch of Quentin Tarantino films this week. I tried to act like it wasn’t a big deal, just a fun thing me and my friends could all do together, but I was truly very excited about it and really hoped they’d be down. 

“Are they showing Kill Bill?” JJ asked with a smile. The other pogues didn’t seem interested but I was happy that JJ was. 

“Yeah. Tomorrow night actually,” I shrugged.

“We should go.”

I smiled softly at him. “Sure, if you want to.”

He chuckled, blue eyes lighting up as he poked my cheek. I knew he could see right past my nonchalant demeanor. “That’s your favorite movie ever. Of course I want to go see it with you! My treat.”

I ignored the fluttering in my belly, but couldn’t hide my smile. He remembers my favorite movie and wants to watch it with me. “You don’t have to pay for me,” I shook my head with a laugh. I didn’t expect him to, but the fact that he offered made my chest warm. JJ doesn’t have much money to begin with, and with what he does have, he usually spends on weed and beer, necessities in his daily life.

“No, no,” he tsked, bringing me into a hug. My giddy grin was thankfully hidden in his chest. Being this close to him always makes me feel lighter than air, warmer than the summer breeze. “You’re my girl. Let me take you out,” he finished, chuckling into my hair. 

I felt heat rise to my cheeks, like I always did when he called me his girl. I nodded in agreement once I pulled away from his embrace. “Ten o’clock tomorrow, okay?”

“I’ll be there,” he replied, saluting me with a wink before turning to join the conversation the rest of the pogues were engaged in, leaving me to internally gush about going on a date with the boy I’ve liked since forever. 

Maybe it wasn’t a date, or maybe it was. I didn’t really know, but I didn’t care as long as I got to spend time with JJ. It really did feel like this time was different. My thoughts swirled, wondering if he likes me back. Wanting to take me to a movie makes it sound like he likes me, right?

Date or not, I wanted to look nice, so I spent more time getting ready than I normally did. I experimented with some light makeup, trying to make it subtle but still pretty. I left my hair down after making it look somewhat decent, something I hardly ever do because my go-to is always putting it up. I even picked out a dress to wear but made sure to choose one that JJ had seen me in plenty of times. I didn’t want to look like I was trying too hard, but still hoped he would notice my appearance and think I looked pretty. 

10:10 PM

The movie started ten minutes ago, and still no word from JJ. I glanced down at my shoes and hugged myself tighter. ‘Maybe he did forget... again.’ I didn’t want to believe it, giving JJ the benefit of the doubt like I always did. But he still wasn’t here.

Yo are you coming? I sent another text.

I was really excited about tonight, not just because I’d be seeing one of my favorite movies in the theaters as if it was premiering for the first time. Now I just feel... heavy. Like I’m carrying the weight of the reality I should’ve realized a long time ago. If I was important to him, he would remember our plans.

My frown deepened. That’s what it comes down to, right? If he actually cared about me, he would be here, or at least tell me he’s not going to make it. Constantly forgetting our plans is a huge sign that he doesn’t like me the way I like him, that I don’t matter to him enough to follow through. It’s a sign I’ve been ignoring even though it’s been there the whole time, blaringly obvious and all too painful. 

No. JJ does care about me, even if it’s just as a friend. He’ll be here. He told me he would be.

10:20 PM

Spinning around and looking at the movie theater entrance, I thought about going inside and watching the movie anyway, but I suddenly wasn’t up for it anymore. This sick feeling in my gut was all I could think about. 

Of course JJ doesn’t like me. Why did I get my hopes up so high when all he’s ever done is not show up? It hurts. It feels like something crawled up inside of me and slashed its claws at my dumb, naive heart. Its terrifying and hoarse voice whispering in my ear, “What did you expect?”

Perhaps this is my fault; letting myself fall for someone that doesn’t feel the same. JJ Maybank: one of my closest friends, the biggest player on the whole damn island, and the most emotionally unavailable boy I’ve ever met. Of course I had to fall for him. I’m a fucking idiot. 

I slumped my shoulders, feeling defeated and tired. It’s like I was tossed to the side without a second thought, much like the trash lining the curb. My throat tightened with the emotions threatening to pour out in sobs, but I held them back. It’s not his fault. I’m the one with these stupid feelings, waiting around for him to feel them too, but he doesn’t. 

10:30 PM

I checked my phone one last time, still nothing. With a deep sigh, I started walking towards the direction of my house. I focused my attention on my sandals hitting the sidewalk, each step feeling like another crack in my heart. 

‘You’re fine,’ I told myself. ‘Don’t cry. You’re fine.’

But I wasn’t, and I felt the stubborn tears brim my eyes. I turned the corner and this street was much darker, the street lights dim and far apart. The sound of someone else’s footsteps pricked my ears, and I kept my head down to hide my frustration and the sadness running down my cheeks. I wanted the footsteps to belong to JJ, finally showing up but just a bit late. I knew better though, and didn’t bother looking up. 

“Well, look who it is. A little pougie.” I halted in my tracks, my eyes flicking up to find his cold ones, and I shot him a glare. As if I needed something to make my night even worse. Fucking Rafe.

“Not even gonna say hello?” he asked. I kept my posture stiff and my stare hard, trying to act tough even though I was most certainly in a vulnerable state.

“What are you doing here, Rafe?” Rafe was predictable in the way that he lived to torture me and my friends. That’s the only reason he’d ever be caught dead in The Cut.

He stopped right in front of me, his tall frame dark and intimidating. Even under the blanket of night I could see his eyes were bloodshot and a sickening smirk lined his lips. He ignored my question as his eyes dragged up and down my body, making my stomach twist and skin crawl. “Where’s the rest of your dirty crew?” he spat.

“You’re lucky they’re not here.” I kept my tone steady, but I could feel my hands start to shake and an uneasy feeling settled inside of me. I need to get out of here. 

With hands stuffed in his pockets, he leisurely walked around me, eyes still glued to my bare legs. “You look pretty,” he whispered. “Were you on a date?” 

“No.”

“Then why are you all dressed up, darlin’?” His gaze met mine again when I spun around to face him, and with the way his features slightly softened, he probably noticed that I had been crying. “Oh. You were stood up, huh?”

Is it that obvious? “No,” I snapped. 

He chuckled darkly, stepping even closer to me, and I took a step back. “His loss.” Then he just stood there staring at me while I was lost in a sea of confusion. Is he trying to be nice?

“Well. It’s been not so nice talking to you. I’m going home now.” I turned around to escape this unpleasant conversation, but I was spun back around with the man’s grip on my arm. 

“Don’t leave. I’m not done talking to you.” I felt fear creep under my skin as I looked up at his face again, hardly able to make out anything but his eyes. He wasn’t asking, he was demanding. 

“Leave me alone.” I tried to snatch my arm out of his grasp, but he pushed me into the brick wall of the building we were in front of. 

The sudden movement caused me to stumble and twist my ankle. “Ow! Rafe, what the fuck!” I felt the pain shoot up my leg, but couldn’t focus on it for long. Rafe’s menacing features had panic surging through my veins as he came closer.

I pressed my back into the hard wall trying to separate myself as much as I could from the man towering over me. “You’ve had a rough night. Let me make you feel better,” he said. He stepped into me, his chest pressing against mine as he looked down at me.

“Get the fuck off of me,” I choked out. 

His wicked laugh fanned over my face and I felt angry tears fall. “Come on, little poguie. At least I actually want you.” His words seemed to drive a knife into my chest. JJ doesn’t want me, but I don’t have time to think about that right now. I can hardly think of anything right now. 

My palms rose to his chest, but he caught my wrists in his hands, keeping me from shoving him off. He laughed again, and the realization that Rafe isn’t sober washed over me like a tidal wave. What have I gotten myself into? “Let me go!” I screamed.

He shut me up by forcing his mouth onto mine. I screamed against his lips but he pressed into me harder. I started thrashing my body under the weight of his, but his hold became tighter. He brutally clutched both of my wrists into one of his large hands while the other came up to slap over my mouth, cutting off my cries.

“Just let it happen, darlin. Enjoy it,” he whispered into my ear. Hot tears ran down my face as I felt his lips on my neck. He sucked harshly on my skin as I squirmed, trying desperately to escape, but I couldn’t. Even if I couldn’t, I would die trying.

His mouth attacked my throat while I struggled between him and the wall. With the adrenaline pumping through my body, I used all of my strength and pushed him as hard as I possibly could. With the few inches I created between us, I picked my leg up and stomped my heel into his foot. 

I prepared to bolt with the time I had bought myself, but a second later he was landing a ruthless slap to my face. I registered the burning pain as he pinned me to the wall with his body again. “Oh, now you’re really gonna get it, pogue.” His sudden anger shook me to my core, his sick laugh echoing in my ears like a fire alarm. 

His hand landed on my thigh and dragged along my skin, pushing my dress up higher and higher as I felt the screams get caught in my throat. I dug my nails into his arms but he wasn’t bothered. He kissed me again and I took his bottom lip between my teeth, biting down hard until I tasted blood.

He yanked his head back, face twisting in rage. Even with his violating hands still searing into my skin, I brought my knee up into his crotch, and he yelled in pain. I didn’t waste any time and took off running, but I was yanked back by my hair. 

“Fucking bitch!” My head throbbed as I crashed to the ground, feeling my elbows scrape the pavement. I was seeing stars as I felt Rafe’s weight drop on top of me, his form straddling me. I threw my fists wildly into his stomach and chest, desperately trying anything to escape him, but I knew my efforts were becoming futile. His ring-clad fist connected with my cheekbone and a sob crawled its way up my throat.

“Stop!” I screamed. His hand suddenly grabbed my throat, cutting off my cries once again. I clawed at his skin to get him to stop, but he only increased the pressure on my esophagus until I couldn’t breathe, and I squeezed my eyes shut. My world was spinning and my terror didn’t let me register the pain anymore, only the horrendous realization of what’s happening to me taking over my thoughts. 

After what felt like minutes but was only a few seconds, I felt his breath fan over my face from where he hovered over me. “You’re not fucking worth the trouble.” He released my neck and I felt him get off of me, but I dared not open my eyes. I was too scared of what might happen. It surely became known when I felt a sharp kick to my stomach. I whimpered, then he landed another kick to my side. “Nobody wants you now! Nobody will ever want you! You’re just a dirty little pogue,” he seethed. 

“Fucking bitch,” he spat again, and I heard his heavy footsteps as he stormed off, leaving me on the ground in pieces. 

11:00 PM

I finally sat up, finding the strength to put myself together again, but was pulled into a coughing fit, my throat burning. I wish I could say I was numb, but I was brutally aware of the torment my body has been through, of the emotional trauma I’d have to live with. 

I carefully stood to my feet but folded in half with arms wrapped around my stomach, clutching myself in pain. Everything hurts. I forced myself to straighten, holding back the tears. I felt broken in every way possible, but I willed myself to figure out how to get help.

I picked up my bag that had been tossed to the ground and rummaged through it for my cell phone. With a heavy heart, I called the one person that I needed more than anyone.

But of course, he didn’t answer. More tears were shed, even though it felt like I couldn’t possibly cry anymore. “Answer, goddammit,” I sobbed. I called again. “Please, JJ. Please. I need you.” Again, the call went to voicemail. 

I let out a wail of anguish. Even with nasty bruises already forming on my skin, the loud shatter of my heart is what hurt the most. He’s never here. Even when I need him. 

I didn’t even want to call anyone else. My ankle, my face, my stomach, my throat. Even though I was shaking in pain, I wanted to wallow in my heartbreak alone, so I slowly started walking again, and limped all the way home. 

***

JJ’s P.O.V.

“How was the movie last night?”

I stretched my arms over my head with a yawn, barely registering what John B. asked. “Huh?”

He chuckled and sat next to me on the pullout couch in the living room where I slept. “You got back pretty late last night. I’m guessing you and Y/N had a good time?” Now I’m thinking it’s not just my sleep induced brain that’s making me so confused.

“What do you mean? I wasn’t with Y/N,” I groaned while rubbing my eyes, the sunlight seeping through the windows too bright and annoying.

“What do you mean, dude?” His eyebrows furrowed and his eyes suddenly flashed with anger. “You were supposed to take her to a movie last night.”

“What the hell are you talking about?” I grumbled, getting even more annoyed. He doesn’t have a right to be pissed at me, not when I have no idea what he’s even pissed about. It’s too fucking early for this shit. 

John B. stood up with a sharp laugh. “I can’t believe you forgot again, man. Seriously?”

I sat up, my anger matching his now. “You wanna tell me what this is about?” He shook his head before looking at me again, baffled. 

“Y/N? Kill Bill? You guys had a date planned.” 

I glared at him before realization finally hit me. I slapped my hand to my forehead. “Fuck. Was that supposed to be last night?”

He shook his head again. “You’re unbelievable, really.” I sighed. It was an honest mistake. At least I know she’ll forgive me. She always forgives me. 

“I’ll fix it. I’m sure she won’t be mad.” John B. rolled his eyes. “And it wasn’t a date, by the way.”

“Yeah? Did you tell her that?”

“Stop talking in riddles, man. What the hell do you mean? Of course she knows.” He hit me on the back of the head, reminding me of my headache, the dreaded hangover starting to take effect. “Hey! What was that for?”

“She likes you, idiot! No idea why, considering you’re just a dick that doesn’t bother to show up to the plans you guys make.”

“Is this why you’re yelling at me? She doesn’t like me, dude. Not like that,” I rolled my eyes. I could punch him for getting on my case over nothing. Y/N doesn’t like me, and missing plans has never been a big deal. I just want to deal with my hangover in peace.

“You don’t deserve her. And she doesn’t deserve your shit,” he said, walking away into the kitchen. 

“You’re getting mad over nothing. Fuck off,” I grunted, head in my hands. I need coffee and advil. His yelling is making my headache worse.

He sauntered back into the living room, throwing a bottle of painkillers at me, too forcefully if you ask me. “Just tell me, if you weren’t with Y/N, what did you do last night?”

I smirked, remembering the events that took place. “A hot blonde that I met at the boneyard,” my smirk widened. I expected some sort of congratulations from my best friend like usual, but I was met with a scoff and a water bottle being thrown at me.

“You’re a prick. You know that?” 

“And you’re an asshole. What do you want from me?”

“Whatever, dude. Let’s just hope Y/N forgives you this time,” he snapped, walking away and finally leaving me in much needed silence.

“She will!” I yelled after him, hearing his bedroom door slam shut.

I sighed before gulping down the painkillers for my headache. I grabbed my discarded shorts from yesterday on the floor and grabbed my phone out of the pocket. I had forgotten that I put it on Do Not Disturb mode after the hot blonde and I left the party. Girls like it when you give them all of your attention, and aren’t distracted by calls and texts. 

I sighed again when I saw the text’s from Y/N.

9:36 PM: On my way! See you in 20 :)

10:10 PM: Yo are you coming? 

I sure feel like an asshole now. I hoped that she would’ve watched the movie without me anyway, but considering she called me twice at 11:00, she probably didn’t. I feel even worse now that I can see she waited over an hour for me. I typed out a text to her, but I wasn’t sure how to word this apology.

Hey, sorry I missed out last night. Got held up :)

I opted for keeping it nonchalant, not wanting to make this a big deal. I’ll make sure she knows how sorry I am the next time I see her. I’m not worried though. She’s the only one out of the pouges that doesn’t get mad at me when I do stupid shit, and she always forgives me. This time won’t be any different.

I laid back down with my arm covering my eyes, and I thought about what John B. said. Y/N doesn’t like me. She’d be stupid to like a fuck up like me. No, no, we’re just friends, and have been for years. I laughed at the thought. 

John B. was right about one thing, though. I definitely don’t deserve her. She’s way too good for me, especially when I’m not good to her.

***

Y/N’s P.O.V.

I stood in front of the mirror and peered at my naked body in the reflection, tears spilling down my cheeks for what felt like the millionth time. 

My eye was swollen and bruised, a cut on my cheek from Rafe’s ring. Large spots of sickly green and deep violet stained my torso. Dark rings around my wrists from his tight grip. A lighter purple ring wrapped around my neck from where Rafe’s hands had cut off my breathing. 

My hot tears dripped from my face and landed on my collarbone, bringing my attention to the hickeys littering the side of my neck too. I wanted to vomit. I could take the physical assault, but that’s not all this was. He violated me. Kissed me. Sucked on my neck while his hands traveled under my dress. 

Going to the police was a thought that bounced through my mind, but I couldn’t, not yet at least. I was much too unstable. I needed support if I was going to report it, but I still hadn’t told anyone what happened. I spent all of yesterday locked in my room, letting myself wallow in the pain.

JJ had texted me yesterday morning, apologizing for not showing up. A simple text wasn’t enough this time. He texted me again that afternoon.

I’m really sorry, Y/N. I’ll make it up to you. Please don’t be mad at me :(

I wasn’t mad. I was heartbroken, and didn’t bother responding to that text either. If he had shown up, I wouldn’t have been assaulted by Rafe. If he was there, we would have been happily watching my favorite movie, eating snacks and probably laughing at the gore displayed on the screen. If he was there, I wouldn’t have been crying in the dark streets alone, trying to wrap my head around the fact that I could have been raped. That I was almost raped.

The other pogues were trying to get a hold of me yesterday too, inviting me to their plans, but I never responded to anyone. I didn’t want to face them, or anyone for that matter. I didn’t even think I wanted to tell them what happened. It was all too much, and I didn’t want to relive it by telling anyone what Rafe had done to me. Not to mention it would add even more ammunition to the war between us and the kooks. 

I don’t feel any different today, still just wanting to curl up in bed and be alone for probably forever, but I don’t have that luxury today. My mom had left for work this morning before I even woke up, but she sent me a text asking me to run some errands. When I protested, she gave me the whole lecture on how I only ever spend time with the pogues and never help out. I didn’t have a choice. 

With one last glance in the mirror, I wiped the tears off my face and started getting dressed. I had to cover the bruises somehow, but makeup was not going to do the trick. Despite the hot temperature outside, I threw on a large sweatshirt over my sports bra. If I put the hood on, nobody would notice the disgusting marks lining my neck. I found a pair of my mom’s oversized sunglasses and they covered enough of my face to hide the cut on my cheek along with the black eye. I put on shorts and shoes and grabbed my bag before looking in the mirror one last time. Nobody would notice.

***

JJ’s P.O.V.

“Have you guys heard from Y/N?” Pope asked the group. “She hasn’t responded to any of my texts for like two days.” I frowned. At least I wasn’t the only one she was ignoring. I thought that she was probably still mad at me for bailing on our plans, but since she isn’t responding to Pope either, maybe she’s just busy with other things.

“No, I haven’t,” Kie answered. “Pretty weird, right?”

“Yeah, I wonder what’s up.” Pope’s face looked concerned suddenly, and I found my own expression matching his.

“Why don’t you ask JJ here,” John B. said, tone sharp with annoyance. Kie and Pope both whipped their heads towards me, eyebrows raised in question. I just scoffed, turning my attention back to waxing my board.

“What the hell did you do?” Pope asked. His accusing words pissed me off. Who said this was my fault?

“Nothing, okay? I just forgot we had plans, and--” I was cut off by John B.

“No surprise there,” he mumbled under his breath. 

Kiara sighed, her disappointed eyes casting down on me. “Seriously, JJ?”

“What? You guys can’t pin the blame on me! I got distracted, it wasn’t my fault.”

John B. scoffed and I wanted to punch him, much like yesterday morning. “Yeah, what was her name again? The distraction, I mean.” I rolled my eyes. 

“Come on, dude. Not cool,” Pope added with a shake of his head. With all three of them staring at me in dismay, it felt like my friends were attacking me. It’s also like they knew something I didn’t. Why is everything always my fault? 

“Stop turning it into a big deal. I just forgot, okay? I already apologized, so it’s fine.”

“So she forgave you?” JB asked, eyes narrowed like he already knew the answer.

“Well, no...” I let my head drop, looking down at the golden sand with all of our beach gear. “She never responded. But come on, this is Y/N we’re talking about! She never stays mad for long.” The words were meant to get my friends off my back, but I found myself taking comfort in them too. I had never really seen Y/N mad before, but if she actually was mad at me, I hoped she’d let me make it up to her and forgive me. I let myself believe that everything would be fine.

Nobody had anything else to say, only sighing and turning their gazes away from me. I felt the anger sitting in the pit of my stomach, but at least they dropped the subject. I’m more upset that this might actually be my fault. ‘Y/N isn’t the type to get mad easily,’ I reminded myself again. But she’s also not the type to ignore her friends. My mind drifted, wondering if she’s okay. 

“Eat up, boys,” Kie said, taking a stack of sandwiches out of the cooler she brought. We all sat down on our towels and started eating, but I couldn’t shake the thought of Y/N from my mind. Maybe I should text her again.

Hey. We’re all at the beach having lunch if you wanna join us. Even if you don’t, that’s ok. Just let me know you got this. We’re all worried about you. I’m worried about you...

I typed it out, but couldn’t bring myself to send it. If she really is ignoring us, I’m sure it’s for a good reason. Maybe it’s best to just give her space. She’ll reach out when she wants to. Whatever the reason, though, I really hope it’s not because of me. She’s the one person I can always count on to be on my side, and I don’t know what I’d do if I was the cause of her distancing from us.

“Oh, no way. It’s Y/N!” Pope interrupted my thoughts. My head turned to see where he was looking, and sure enough, it was my girl, passing through the boardwalk.

Pope was up on his feet and ran to her, calling over his shoulder that he’ll bring her over to us.

***

Y/N’s P.O.V.

“Y/N! Hey!” I stopped in my tracks when I heard my name being shouted, and I noticed Pope running up from behind me.

“Oh, hey Pope,” I said, trying to swallow down my nerves. I didn’t plan on running into my friends here. I didn’t need them finding out about what happened the other night, so I put on a half-hearted smile, trying to act normal, trying to act okay.

“Where the hell have you been?” he asked with a laugh, pulling me into a bear hug. I held back my wince from where he grabbed my sides, the bruises there shooting pain through my body. 

“Oh, ya know,” I gulped. “Just busy with my family.” I was glad that my sunglasses were dark enough so that he couldn’t see my eyes. If he could, he’d know I was lying within seconds. “Sorry I’ve been M.I.A.”

“It’s alright. Come on. We’re having lunch right now.” He grabbed my hand and started pulling me towards the beach, and the other pogues sitting together on the beach came into my focus. 

My eyes widened. “Uh, no, Pope. Sorry, but I have to go.” He stopped and gave me a weird look. “I... I’m running errands for my mom,” I shrugged, hoping he would let me go so that I don’t have to talk to the others, talk to JJ. 

“Just come say hi then. Everyone missed you!” He tugged my hand again, but I didn’t budge from where I planted my feet in the sand. 

“No, Pope. Really, I have to get going.” I didn’t have any other excuses up my sleeve, and I could feel my resolve coming undone. He gave me another weird look, probably wondering what the hell is going on with me. I wanted to tell him. I did, really. But I was not ready to talk about it. I didn’t need him or the others seeing what I looked like under this sweatshirt, or the black eye I was sporting under my glasses. I knew it would only cause more problems, more rage, and I couldn’t handle that right now. If anything, I just needed a hug.

“Is everything okay?” I looked down at my feet and sighed, trying to muster up the strength to lie to one of my best friends. When I looked back up to him, he had sent a look towards the pogues, and they all got up and started making their way over.

“Yes, Pope. I’m fine,” I breathed out a laugh, trying to cover up my panic. “I gotta go, now. Really.” I turned around to run away, but I was too late. The pogues had already crossed the beach and were surrounding me. 

“Y/N! Hey, we missed you!” Kie smiled, pulling me into a hug. Again, I had to hide my grimace from the pain that engulfed me so that my friends couldn’t see. I knew I couldn’t keep up this act for long, and I felt my heart sinking further into my chest.

“Yeah, I’m glad we ran into you,” John B. smiled with a nod in my direction. His expression was soft and kind, and it strangely made me feel like he understood that I wasn’t all the way okay.

“There’s my girl,” JJ’s voice rang through my ears. He looked relieved, and pulled me into his chest, squeezing me tight. This time, I wasn’t able to hold in the small noise that escaped past my lips. When he pulled away, he looked down at me with concern. “You okay?”

I pushed him away. “Yeah, I’m fine.” I couldn’t put on a half-assed smile this time. He’s the one causing my pain. The one that bailed on me. The one that wasn’t there when I needed him, leaving me alone and in broken pieces on that horrible night.

“Why are you wearing a sweatshirt?” Kie laughed. “It’s like one hundred degrees out here.” I just shrugged my shoulders, even though I was dying under the heavy material and the heat of the sun. I looked over my shoulder down the boardwalk, trying to avoid their worried glances, especially JJ’s. I could feel his eyes burning into me, and I couldn’t bear the weight of it for much longer.

“Yeah, what the hell? It’s burning hot out here,” Pope added, and pulled my hood off my head. 

“Pope, don’t,” I said. “I have to go.” I turned away after putting my hood back on and started walking, not even caring that they definitely know something’s wrong now. I just need to get away before I break down.

JJ was the one to catch up to me, leaving the pogues behind us and sharing worried looks. “Y/N, wait.” He grabbed my wrist, and I winced at the contact. “I just wanted to say that I’m so sorry for missing our plans. I got held up with a touron, and you know how it is. She was so hot, how could I not go home with her?” he laughed. Looking up at him, I felt my heart shatter all over again. Of course. He wasn’t with me because he was hooking up with some girl. This fucking hurts more than the punch Rafe landed to my face, and I felt anger swell inside of me.

“Come on, you’re not mad at me, are you?” He smiled, bringing his hands up to cradle my face. He was being his charming self like usual, which is precisely the reason I even fell for him in the first place. But his cute dimples and bright eyes aren’t going to fix anything this time. If anything, they’re just another stab to my chest.

He could sense I wasn’t giving into him. “I’ll make it up to you. Promise,” he pouted. My lips parted to speak, but no words tumbled out. He suddenly ripped my sunglasses from my face.

“JJ, don’t!” His face dropped at the sight of my bruised eye. The glasses fell to the sand when he stepped closer to me, eyes scanning my face. I pushed him back, but he swatted my hands away.

“Y/N?” His features quickly turned from worried to angry. “What the fuck happened?” I felt tears pricking my eyes, but I held them back as I tried to push him away again. He yanked my hood off my head and I knew he was piecing it all together now.

He reached for the bottom of my sweatshirt, and my hands grabbed at his to try and stop him. “Leave me alone,” I yelled, but he didn’t. Despite my attempts to stop him, he had grabbed the bottom of my sweatshirt and started pulling it up over my head. “JJ, stop!” I yelled again, but I couldn’t fight him back anymore because it hurt too much. He had taken it all the way off, leaving me just in my sports bra, my beaten body on full display.

A series of gasps surrounded me as the other pogues gathered around us again, shocked and bewildered expressions on their faces. I watched JJ scan my body. His eyes lingered on the bruises on my belly before flicking to my face again, and then my neck. With the way his eyebrows furrowed and he clenched his jaw, I could tell he was examining the hickeys on my skin. Tears ran freely down my cheeks, and the silence was deafening. 

“Oh, Y/N...” Kie whispered, eyes becoming glossy.

“What the fuck happened?!” JJ burst. His face was twisted in rage as his hands reached for me. I stepped away, but he grabbed my arms. “Who the fuck did this to you?!” I shook my head, trying to swallow the sob that was making its way up my throat. “Y/N, who the fuck was it?!”

“JJ! Lay off!” John B. spoke up. Kie had wrapped her arms around me, wanting to shield me from our angry friend. They could tell JJ wasn’t helping. 

John B. and Pope pulled at JJ’s arms to get him to step back, but he exploded even more. “YN! Tell me who did this to you!” Seeing his reddened face and furious eyes made my own burning anger swim to the surface.

“Stop yelling at her!” Pope told JJ, him and JB still holding the blonde away from me.

“No! I swear to god I’m going to kill ‘em. What the FUCK happened??”

“It wouldn’t have happened if you had bothered to SHOW UP!” I flared, my voice slicing through the chaos among the group. My heated gaze met JJ’s, and his entire face fell at my words, the rage washing away from his pools of blue and replaced with sadness.

Everything seemed to still at my outburst, even my tears. I watched as JJ crumbled beneath the weight of my words. As angry and heartbroken and hurt as I was, I wanted to see him this way. I wanted him to feel guilty. 

“I should’ve known you wouldn’t show up. I should've known you wouldn’t answer when I called you for help. Because you never do.” With every word I spat, I could see the effect they had on him. I kept my ruthless stare fixed on him. “Congrats on fucking some touron, though.” 

Everyone stayed silent as I picked up my sweatshirt and sunglasses from the sand. I glanced at JJ one last time before putting my glasses back on and turning around, leaving everyone behind me without another word. 

***

Read: Stood Up - Part 2

Masterlist

***

[serenityseventeen]

♪ The Last Day of Summer With You

Boo Seungkwan: Beach Volley

“Hey! I told you to keep your hands around my waist!” Seungkwan scolded, glancing back at you who was sitting behind him on the bike.

“It's fine, Seungkwan, it's only for a short moment!” You replied, closing your eyes gently. Around your body was a large strapped bag that contained a volleyball signed by Seungkwan's favorite volleyball team.

Seungkwan hated that he had to be so worried as you daringly opened your arms to hug the wind, allowing yourself to lean back slightly. From the moment you two began riding the couple's bicycle to now, you had made Seungkwan like a father who was concerned for their naughty child, even though he was your boyfriend.

Seungkwan's eyebrows arched inwards as he clenched his teeth and shook his head in disagreement. Despite his constant worries for you who was so carefree like a bird, he felt a relieving sensation as he spotted the beach down below creeping closer into view.

The sound of the waves was getting closer too and now, he could understand how you could open your arms so carelessly. He wanted to hug the wind too but Seungkwan knew that he would be way too scared to try.

“You didn't let the bag loose, did you??” Seungkwan asked half-joking and half-serious as he took a small turn, heading towards the bike parking area.

“Of course not! For the last day of summer, you brought your special, lucky ball! If I lost it, you would kill me even if I'm your darling,” You smiled and opened your eyes, finally clasping your hands around his waist and resting your head on his back.

Seungkwan scoffed and got off the bike. You got off too and made sure the bag was still tightly strapped around your body as Seungkwan locked the bike. You felt excitement rising inside your body and then like a child, you excitedly found yourself running toward the beach, away from your guardian.

After Seungkwan locked the bike, he asked, “Okay, take out the-”

He looked at the place that you were standing previously only to find that you blasted off into the distance with your arms wide open. Seungkwan couldn't help but watch you in disbelief. The initial plan of the day was to bike to the beach then play some volleyball before going to eat at a seaside restaurant but he could tell that you were already getting carried away by the thought of having your feet sink in the sand.

Watching as you ran closer to the water, Seungkwan couldn't help but laugh. Seeing you being all smiley like that made his heart flutter and left him in a daze for a few seconds before he realized, “What am I doing, still here? I should catch up with Y/N...”

You took off the black bag and tossed it down on the sand before you crouched down to unzip it. Seungkwan had jogged over to you and came just in time as you were taking out the volleyball. There were two volleyballs, one signed and one not, because Seungkwan claimed that sometimes, children on the beach would want to play with a ball too, so he always brought an extra if he wanted to play beach volleyball.

You smiled while thinking about how kind your boyfriend was. You just felt so glad to be with someone you knew was an angel at heart. You always thought you were lucky to have Seungkwan but he would always come at you with a counterargument, saying that it wasn't luck, but it was his choice to be with you. Seungkwan would also say that you feeling lucky was how he felt too but vice versa.

“Okay okay, let's just do some rally,” You said, picking up the signed ball. Seungkwan always said that that ball gave him luck when it came to games. “If you fail to receive the ball then you have to do what I ask you to do, okay??”

“Okay, fine,” Seungkwan replied, feeling competitive. He cracked his knuckles and began stretching his arms and legs from side to side. “But if you lose, you have to do what I ask. Let's not make it something too embarrassing.”

You nodded with an aware nod. Standing quite a far distance apart, you served the ball to Seungkwan, who quickly returned it to you. The rally continued with the two of you also trying to sabotage each other in shady ways, but even so, it seemed more fun.

The way Seungkwan was acquiescently smiling left you smiling even more blissfully, eventually distracting you from the ball. Before you knew it, all you could focus on was Seungkwan's joy pouring out of his scintillating eyes and ecstatic smile.

There was a small, soft thud as the volleyball hit the quaggy sand. Seungkwan jumped in joy and you, who had belatedly realized that the ball was flying in your direction, had dived for it, only to land on the floor, missing the ball by a strand of hair.

After his little victorious dancing ceremony, Seungkwan waddled over to you who was sulking, sitting with your legs crisscrossed on the sand. He fanned himself with the end of his white t-shirt and while giggling cutely, said, “Now, what should I make this loser do?”

You stood up while holding the volleyball. You wiped the sweat that was trickling down his sideburns. The sun was so bright that even the cool wind that occasionally passed by could not beat the humid air.

“How about... look, I'll go easy on you because I love you, okay? How about just running to the end of the beach and back? I'll wait for you and play with some of the kids on the beach,” Seungkwan said, smiling. The way he was smiling was painfully annoying but you lost and there was no way around it.

Or was there?

You pouted, trying to get him to change the punishment but he had his eyes closed, feeling the fresh air of the beach flow into his lungs. You couldn't understand how Seungkwan could be so cruel but even so, you loved him.

You sighed and said, “Okay, fine.”

You had to admit that if you were the winner, you would have given Seungkwan the same punishment. It was just how things were between you two; you two were like playful kids.

“Okay, go!” Seungkwan said, opening his eyes to see you start your run to the end of the beach and back, but instead of seeing you blast off, his lips were met with yours. He couldn't deny that he was expecting it, but even if he knew you were going to kiss him, he was still flustered by the sudden action.

“A kiss won't get you out of it every time, even if I badly want to change the punishment now, I won't! I'm not going to fall for that anymore!” Seungkwan said, flipping your around to face the other side of the beach that you had to run across.

“Come on, get going.”

“Fine, fine, whatever, but,” You said softly, taking your beloved boyfriend's hand. “Isn't it better to go together?”

Before he could reply, you were dragging him as you ran, with your destination being the end of the beach. You both ran past people who were sunbathing and it wasn't until Seungkwan called out, “Hey! My signed volleyball, we need to go get that!” that you both paused. After catching your breaths, you both made a U-turn and fetched the bag and volleyball, before executing your punishment again.

“Gosh, this isn't fair,” Seungkwan said as he ran with you. You couldn't help but smile.

“Honestly, I find it pretty fair,” You replied, glancing at him who was lagging behind.

“What? How?”

“Because it was because of you that I lost that rally! Don't you know how beautiful your smile is?”

Seungkwan laughed, unable to believe how incredibly sweet your words were, making his already racing heartbeat accelerate.

“Fine, fine, I guess this is fair enough.”

----------------

© serenityseventeen

a/n: SEVENTEEN IN THE SOOP PREMIERED TODAY!!!! (Spoiler ahead) I loved it so much- jun's hot pot restaurant, shua making a clay tray, wonwoo and jeonghan building legos, and dk and mingyu building the brick oven- plus dino and jeonghan catching tadpoles was so cute... i can already feel that it was such a healing trip for them 🥺🥺

[footballffbarbiex]

Smut Blurb. Four.

Player: Son Heung-min Words: 435 Type: fluffy smut.  Warning: I went a little...soft with this one. I wasn’t sure how “hard” to go with him as I’ve not written him too much so far, and I don’t wanna put a foot out of place with his character yet. I’m incredibly soft though for Son, so I’d love to write more, I just don’t know what his readers would like to see from the smut side of things. Request:  smut for son heung min , a time that you haven't seen for a long time and he missed you so much that the first thing he does when he comes is kissing u without even breathing

Something about this time away from Sonny had been harder than before. Usually, you handled it to the best of your ability, and while you missed him, it felt bearable. Seeing his happy face on your screen as you wrapped your arms around his jersey which covered your torso, made the time away from him easier to manage because as you watched him, it was easy to think, “that’s my man there. That’s exactly what he’s doing right at this moment in time.” You weren’t sitting feeling sad wondering what he was doing, you could see for yourself. He was there, on the pitch, scoring goals and assisting Harry.  

Every heart he sent your way, it made it a little easier. Usually.  

Every text he sent saying he missed you and couldn’t wait to come back helped. Usually.  

But this time, it just made the ache in your chest increase and the sadness to creep in further. Not that you’d tell him that. You didn’t need him feeling as sad as you. Knowing he was on his way home now had made you pace the halls, checking the windows and your phone until finally, headlights appeared, and his car pulled up on the driveway.  

You’ve only just made it to the front door when he comes through it. You’d heard the expression “a smile that lit up his face” but this was the first time you’d truly seen it. He doesn’t bother to close the door as he strides towards you; one hand grips your waist, the other cups your jaw and his lips are on yours.  

Son leaves no time to say hello, how’re you?, I’ve missed you or any other small talk. He pours every unspoken question, thought and need into the way he kisses you and you’re thankful to feel your back hit the wall as he directs the two of you there, needing some support to keep the two of you upright as he deepens the kiss.  

A quiet hum sounds in your throat as your tongues meet, your hands slipping beneath his shirt, needing to feel his bare skin beneath your hands before you hold his waist, pulling his body closer to yours. You’re unable to hide the smile that curves your mouth as you feel him hardening against you. Feeling him thickening  

“I need you,” he whispers, breaking the kiss to re-place them over your jaw and throat. “I’ve missed you so much.”  

“You get the door,” you tell him, nibbling at his bottom lip softly as he lets out a small groan, “I’ll meet you in the bedroom.”

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[princess-of-riviaa]

Can’t Help Falling In Love

Part 2 to I Won’t Say I’m In Love

Pairing: Henry Cavill x Reader

Summary: Henry makes you confront your feelings about him.

Warning(s): voyeurism(ish), dirty talk, body worship(ish), fingering, squirting

Word Count: 1,955

The Tudors premieres ten months after that blissful day you helped Henry practice a steamy scene. You watch it religiously, purely because you want to support your best friend (and not because you’re so addicted to those realistic love scenes). You’re drawn in to the show and quickly find yourself thinking about the characters in your everyday life. Henry is an arrogant ass who only gets away with everything because of his position as king; Charles Brandon is just as bad, getting away with treating women terribly because he’s so attractive. Your blood boils every time they’re on screen, but you can’t seem to pull your eyes away from them. You’re as hopeless as the women they prey on.

You hadn’t been expecting an explicit love scene with Charles in the pilot episode, and when it came on screen, you were grateful you’d decided to watch the show alone. You were instantly wet. Hearing Charles groan and talk dirty to the lucky woman getting pounded by him made you clench your legs together. You found yourself burning with both want for him and jealousy for the girl.

There aren’t any sex scenes with Charles in the next two episodes, so when Henry calls you and asks you to watch the next week’s episode with him on Friday, you agree, thinking nothing of it. It’s only when you’re halfway through the fourth episode that you recognize the scene unfolding in front of you: it’s the scene you’d practiced with Henry. Suddenly you’re very aware of the way his thigh rests against yours on the couch, how he has one hand resting on his leg and the other stretched out on the couch behind you. There’s no way you can get up and excuse yourself now without it looking suspicious, though you know there’s also no way you can make it through this scene without getting wet. You focus on staying calm as the scene continues on Henry’s TV.

The way Charles Brandon looks at Margaret sends heat straight to my core. He’d practiced that look on me. You know it’s rehearsed, but that doesn’t mean it affects you any less. The tension between Charles and Margaret resembles the tension between you and Henry now. You’re painfully aware of how his body heat radiates off of him, only adding to the fire inside of you. Margaret excuses her ladies in waiting, leaving her alone with Charles. There’s a look on both of their faces, like they know exactly what’s about to happen, and even though you know exactly how this scene plays out, you can’t stop yourself from gasping slightly when Charles first kisses Margaret. You want it to be you, being kissed like that.

You recall how his mouth had felt on yours that day you’d practiced with him. Too late, you realize how terrible of an idea tugging on that memory was. You squeeze your legs together as the memory makes your heart race.

It quickly grows worse. Charles kisses Margaret again and she lets him. There’s something about how he keeps his eyes open, only half-closed, that you find arousing. Normally it would be a turn-off, but the way Henry does it… you find yourself holding your breath.

A bolt of thunder makes you gasp again and suddenly Charles has Margaret pressed against the wall of the ship, his hands snaking up her dress. The sounds he makes as he kisses her draws even more memories to the surface of your mind: Henry grabs your hand and moves it lower. Your fingers ghost over the muscles of his stomach before resting over his jeans. Warmth radiates from his bulging erection, burning through his jeans. His mouth finds yours again as you palm him over his jeans and you swallow every delicious moan you pull out of him.

A moan rips you out of your daydream. That sound hadn’t come from the show; it had come from you. Fuck. Your face burns, but before you can think to say anything, Henry’s hand comes to rest on your thigh. His hand is warm like always and his touch makes your skin tingle deliciously.

“You like it, don’t you?” he asks, his voice breaking the heated tension in the room. “Like watching me kiss her? Do you wish it was you I was kissing instead?”

You can’t answer him. You know it will give you away, and you don’t want to freak Henry out with how badly you want him. But he softly grabs your chin and forces you to look at him. Even with the lights off, the tv provides a bright glow that shows you just how dilated his pupils are. He’s just as turned on as you right now.

“I had to know,” he admits, “whether you were pretending that day or not. I couldn’t tell if you’d done it all because you thought I needed it and were trying to help me out, or if you actually want me like that. I needed to see your reaction to this scene, needed to know if it would affect you how I hoped it would. And it did.”

“Henry…” Your voice is small, quiet, barely audible above the show. “I-I don’t want this to ruin our friendship.”

He gives you a doubtful look. “You really think we can go back to being just friends after all of this? When it’s clear that we both want more than that?”

You don’t know what to say.

“How can I leave you alone now, knowing that you’re soaking wet?” he asks, the hand he’d had on your thigh slowly moving towards your core. “I want to touch you, want to memorize the spots on your body that, when I touch them just right, make you come undone. I want to make you feel pleasure so intense that you can’t think. I can make you feel good, baby girl. Let me.”

Something about hearing him call you baby girl sets something off in you and before you know what you’re doing, his mouth is against yours. He kisses you roughly, deeply, passionately, and you sigh into his mouth. His hands are on your waist, pulling you even closer to him as his tongue pushes past the barrier of your lips and collides with your own.

“Stand up,” he says suddenly, pulling away from you.

Your mind is foggy, your heart beating so fast that you’re dizzy, but you manage to listen and move to stand in front of him. He unbuttons your shorts slowly, his blue eyes checking your face for any signs of hesitancy. But not an inch of you doesn’t ache for this. He finally moves his attention back to your shorts. As he tugs down the zipper, he leaves a ghost of a kiss just below your belly button. You can’t help but bite your lip and lean into him. He chuckles at your desperation as he tugs your shorts down, taking your underwear with them. You’re suddenly embarrassed now that your most intimate parts are right in front of him. But the way he looks at you… all your embarrassment fades and you’re left feeling like the sexiest woman in the world. He reaches for your shirt next and you lift your arms, letting him undress you completely. Your nipples harden as the cool air whips around them. Henry drags his hands up your sides and cups your breasts, which feel even smaller inside his large hands. He begins to knead them and you’re suddenly more breathless than you were before. You whimper as he pinches your nipples between his thumbs and forefingers. Your arousal begins to drip down your legs.

“Sit in front of me,” he orders.

You don’t know what he has planned but you do it anyways. He spreads his legs so you can sit between them. With one hand between your knees, spreading your legs even further apart, he brings his other hand to your hip and draws you tighter against him until your back is resting against his chest. You can feel the solidness of him against your back, can feel his body heat wrap around you and the unsteady rhythm of his heartbeat. The smell of cedarwood and eucalyptus--a smell that you’ve come to think of as pure Henry--envelopes you as you relax against him. As you find comfort in his arms, you also find yourself growing more aroused. He slowly creeps his hands towards your core. The closer he gets, the more your legs fall open, eager for him to touch you and take everything he wants.

“Fuck,” he breathes into your ear when he runs two fingers between your folds, making your breathe hitch and a shiver snake up your spine. “You’re so wet. Is it all for me?”

You nod, unable to think of words as he begins to rub your clit in agonizingly slowly circles. You release a moan with every breath. No one’s ever made you feel this intense or desperate before. You clutch tightly onto Henry’s thighs, desperate for something to hold onto.

“You have no idea what watching you fall apart does to me,” he says, but a second later you feel his erection press into your ass. You love knowing you’re having an affect on him.

Henry circles your entrance with two wet fingers before pushing them inside of you. His fingers are thick enough that the intrusion stings, but the pain quickly turns into overwhelming pleasure as he begins to finger you. His free hand comes up to your throat, gently squeezing. You let yourself get lost in your pleasure. Your hips buck up against his hand, desperately meeting every curl of his fingers.

“That’s it, cum for me,” he breathes. “I want you to fall apart. Let yourself go.”

And you do. Your legs shake as you fall over the edge and land in a lake of ecstasy. Everything disappears. All you know is Henry--touching you, pleasing you, loving you. You struggle to open your eyes after. Henry doesn’t stop fingering you even after you’ve finished coming.

“Henry--” you gasp out.

“I’m gonna make you feel good,” he promises, tightening his grip on your throat until you can’t speak. “I want you to squirt all over my hands.”

I’ve never done that before, you want to tell him, but his hand on your throat keeps you from speaking.

He keeps up the quick pace and before you know it you feel yourself nearing the edge again. You struggle to breathe as your body mindlessly chases down another orgasm. It feels different this time, though. You tense as you start to feel the desperate need to pee.

Henry moves his hand from your neck to your stomach, gently rubbing your tense muscles until they relax. “It’s okay, baby. Relax against me. Let me make you feel good.”

You trust him enough to listen. Your body falls back against him as the wave of pleasure continues to near. Your breath gets caught in your lungs as you feel your mind stop in its tracks, unable to think.

“That’s it, baby girl,” Henry says.

Your body tenses as you orgasm. But instead of just your legs shaking this time, it’s your entire body. It’s overwhelming, terrifyingly so, because you know that you’re going to spend the rest of your life chasing this feeling.

You’re both quiet as you come back to reality. You force the fog to clear from your mind. “Henry?”

He kisses your neck. It’s such a sweet, simple touch that it makes you blush. Or maybe you’re just coming down from your high still.

“I think you’re right,” you admit. “We can’t go back to just being friends now.”

***

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[golden-barnes]

Divinità I: Musa

Bucky Barnes X F! Reader

Description of the series: Divinità. A deity. A goddess. One that Bucky has only seen 3 times before and now he can’t get Y/N out of his head. So he decided to put an idealized version of Y/N in his books. But what will happen when he gets to meet the real Y/N? Will you still be his deity?

Summary: (Muse) Bucky was shocked when he saw his muse at his book presentation. 

Warning: Cursing and some self-deprecating remarks because of Bucky’s inner monologue , mentions of anxiety, some suggestive comments. 

Word count:.1.6k

A/N: I’m sorry for the slow updating schedule. But I have some things planned for this break, including for Divinità. I am also having a taglist for this series.If anyone is interested send me an ask. 

Prologue  

6 years later, 

“Thank you all for coming to the release party of my new book “Daybreak”. Yeah. Uhm I am not a speaker, I am more of a writer.” The crowd laughed at his little joke. Bucky let out a little chuckle.

“After I released Longing, I never expected it to be such a hit. I just thought this was gonna be swept under the rug. But that wasn’t the case. Anyway, I hope everyone has fun reading Daybreak. The same amount of fun, it was to write it. Thank you for the support and enjoy the party.” Bucky handed the microphone to Steve who patted him on the back. Steve smiled at his friend, proud of his achievements. Hell, even Bucky was proud of how far he has gotten. Who would have thought a veteran with a metal arm would end up in the New York Times bestseller? 

A year after leaving the Rehabilitation Center, Bucky found himself writing everyday. But it wasn’t his thoughts anymore. He found himself constructing another world. Different from the one he was living. It wasn’t that his life was bad. He had Steve and Sam as his roommates. He helped Steve with his bookstore. He got really good at baking (Sam would often call him Betty Crocker when he got into his baking mood). Steve talked to his friend Tony Stark and got him to make Bucky a metal prosthetic, which was a great help in his quest to establish a sense of normalcy. But he still had some anxiety. Some days were worse than others. Some days he was a little bit of a social butterfly, some he won’t leave his room if it isn’t to raid the fridge and go to the bathroom. 

But writing Longing made it easier for him. It was his little happy place that he had created, controlled and decorated to help him escape. The story of a man who gets lost in the forest then is rescued by a woman that resided in a cabin in the middle of the woods. Long story short, she saves him from dying alone in the forest and helps him feel a lot better with himself. 

“Is Longing biographical?” He was often asked. And he would always say it wasn’t. Because explaining that he wrote it about a woman named Y/N who he saw three times and never talked to her but she was constantly invading his thoughts would be very difficult. It was hard to explain to his best friend. Sam and Steve looked at him as if  he was stalking her but in their defense, it was really weird. But writing about her calmed him down. Even remembering her voice could soothe him when he was having an anxiety attack. It was like nothing he has ever experienced before. If he focused enough, he could still feel her warmth overtake the room. 

Was writing a second book about her and her being an angel, healthy? No. Did that stop him? Absolutely not. Did he regret it? Maybe, once he saw Y/N walking into the coffee shop.

Why was she doing here? Does she know about the books? Oh my god, she knows and she is going to sue him and curse him out. Damn it Barnes, you knew this wasn’t a good idea. Why the fuck did you do this? Idiot.

Bucky felt his hands getting clammy. But he also felt calm. Again, it was her presence. It soothes him, but also makes him anxious. She walked in with the biggest smile. The heart melting smile that was brighter than the sun and all the stars. She was walking but Bucky swore he sees her floating with every step. He saw her smiling towards one of the patrons of the coffee. Her friends maybe. Y/N ran towards the other woman and gave her a hug. Yeah , they were friends.

“Ay Tinman. What are you looking at?”Sam snapped him out of his little day dream. Sam noticed where he was staring and gave me a smirk.

“C’mon. I’ll introduce you. They are really nice. ” Before Bucky could protest, he was being dragged by Sam. Bucky made a sound of annoyance but he knew it wouldn’t stop Sam from possibly embarrass him in front of Y/N.

Bucky found himself in front of her. I hope she doesn’t recognize me. I mean she won’t. After his first book premier, Bucky’s manager was pretty adamant of him getting a change of look. His long locks were cut and his beard was trimmed. Back when he was living at the Rehabilitation Center, he kept his hair long and usually in his face and he also barely did anything to his beard. Change. Bucky didn’t really enjoy change. If it wasn’t for Natasha, he would still look like that.

Y/N turned her head and looked directly at him. Warmth spread across Bucky’s chest. If her smile could melt Bucky, her eyes were like rays of sun. Why is she so warm? Why does it feel like I am burning up? Oh can she see me sweat?   

“What are you two professor doing here? On a school night? Aren’t we in midterms? Out here partying when you should be grading.” Sam teases. Both women laughed. And oh how she laughs. Contain yourself Barnes. You don’t need to be more of a creep for fuck’s sake. 

“Could say the same to you, Professor Wilson.” Y/N joked. The brunette that was with her rolled her eyes at her two colleagues. It seems like this was the dynamic between them. Bucky couldn’t help but feel his chest tighten up a bit.

“Y/N wanted to come here to get her hands on the book. And she decided to drag me along.” The brunette said. It was Y/N’s turn to roll her eyes. Sam let out a chuckle but also nudged Bucky in the ribs. Which prompted Bucky to give his attacker a pointed look.

“Bucky, this is Wanda Maximoff, psychology professor” Sam said pointing at the brunette who gave him a small smile. “And this is Y/N Y/L/N, literature professor.” Y/N gave Bucky a big smile and extended her hand towards him. But Bucky just stared at her hand, stuck just like the second time he saw her. 

Fucking Barnes, as always. Freezing up. She might think you are a weirdo. Just shake her hand you fucking idiot. Bucky extended his hand and shook Y/N. He felt a jolt from where their hands joined. They both looked surprised. Maybe she felt it too.

“Nice to meet you, Bucky.” Y/N said softly. She looked Bucky directly in the eyes. Bucky felt time had slowed down and everyone had disappeared. All his focus was on her. And it felt right for him. 

“Nice to meet you too.” Bucky let out in an even softer tone. Her smile widened at his words. Bucky noticed Sam smirking at them.

“Y/N, did you know that Bucky is the author?” Sam said, still smirking at his buddy.

What is he planning? Y/N looked at Bucky with wide eyes. She looked shocked. Oh no, did she hate my book?

“Oh my. I -uhm- was expecting to meet the author but I didn’t…. I- I love Longing.” When the words left her mouth, Bucky’s heart started to soar. If she only knew the truth. Bucky cleared his throat nervously. 

“I am glad you did.. I uhm. Yeah” Bucky put his hands inside his pockets. Sam and Wanda shared a look. And Wanda decided to set up.

“Oh she is down playing it. She even added it to the syllabus of her class.” Wanda stated. Y/N slapped her friend’s arm. And shushed her. Wanda then looks at Sam.

“Yeah, you should have seen her when she finished it. She didn’t shut up about it.” Sam added. Y/N looked embarrassed. Bucky froze again from what he was hearing. She liked what he wrote. About her.

“I just really like unrequited love stories.” She said looking at the ground. As if she was scared to see Bucky’s reaction. But it actually snapped him out of his frozen state.

“A lot of people don’t think it is an unrequited love story.” Y/N looked up at Bucky when he said that.

“I mean it is though. The man does fall in love with the woman from the cabin but she later tells him to leave once he is healed. He is still in love with her and yearns for her. But she doesn’t seem to feel the same.” Y/N rambles. Bucky looked at her with awe. He never expected anyone to get that. Especially the muse of the book. Obviously telling their story. Well an idealized version of their story.

“See Buck! You should hear what else she has to say about your book.” Sam said.

“I would love to hear it all.” Bucky blurted out. Oh fuck, that was so quick. Dumbass. But she didn’t seem to mind. She just smiled at him. Wanda gave her a nudge. Sam had picked pocketed Bucky and grabbed one of his business cards. Before Bucky could get it back, Sam handed it to Y/N. She gave them both a smile and looked at the card. 

“I would love to tell you all. Here’s my card. Maybe after I read Daybreak, I can talk about that one too.” Y/N replied.

“He doesn’t work. He’s more of a freeloader. Y’all can meet up any time.” 

“Sam!” Bucky punched Sam in the arm while Sam, Wanda and Y/N laughed. 

“I’ll take you up on it.” Y/N said winking at Sam. Bucky felt as if his head was in the clouds. He felt light. But also he couldn’t  help but feel an overwhelming sensation of dread in the back of his head. But if I can push it down, I’ll finally get to meet up my muse.

[mae-gi-writes]

Une Premiere | Ju Haknyeon (The Boyz Christmas Series)

La Joie De Noel Series.

Sangyeon | Jacob | Younghoon | Hyunjae | Juyeon | Kevin | Changmin | Chanhee | Haknyeon | Sunwoo | Eric

'Une Premiere' : A First, included in the expression ‘That’s a first’. 

In which you and Haknyeon go on a first date on Christmas Eve.

things to know:  - moelleux au chocolat : molten chocolate cake. It has a liquidy chocolate sauce inside. 

I dedicate this story to:  @atbzkingdom​ , Dee, thank you for always bringing me comfort and for always having my back. Being friends with you on Tumblr has helped me so much this year and I wanted to write this fic for you as a gift. So I hope you like it <3 

-♡-

The warmth of Haknyeon’s hand on yours was burning through your palm and making it sweat bullets even though the cold was busy biting at the rest of your body. 

You were surprised that he hadn’t pulled away in disgust yet. Your mind was internally screaming at you: you had one job Y/N, and that was not to make a fool of yourself! 

You wouldn’t have been in such a state if not for the sudden inclination of such events tumbling one after another so that they left you feeling dizzy with euphoria, in a mess of feelings that made you want to squirm in place.

When Haknyeon had proposed to you that it was about time you’d had a first date with him -- he had confessed his feelings a few weeks ago and ever since there was this unknown, unspoken feeling that teetered between the two of you as though you were constantly balanced on a plate about to crash at any moment -- you had agreed wholeheartedly without thinking twice about the consequences that followed. 

Like right now, when you were practically unable to function because he’d intertwined his fingers with yours like it was the most normal thing he could’ve done. 

You wondered whether he could hear the way your heart seemed to palpitate within your chest like a ping pong ball.

Y/N you loser. Get a grip.

The Christmas Eve market was bustling with people and shining with lights that were strung, multi-coloured LEDs adorning the pedestrian cobblestone and turning the scene in a fairytale wonderland. You could hear music, Christmas jingles that floated through the air, and managed to somewhat relax despite your initial nervousness around the said young man. 

"Oh look, they have Christmas cookies,” Haknyeon tugged you along to one of the stands where a multitudes of red, green and white Christmas cookies were displayed for the occasion. 

“Three for five dollars!” The girl beamed while handing out samples.

“Woah it’s good,” your eyes rounded in surprise as you looked at Haknyeon, who chuckled at your expression, “we could buy some for your grandma. She likes Christmas cookies doesn’t she?” 

His thoughtfulness for your own grandmother made your heart soften. He was so considerate that you wondered how someone as angelic as Haknyeon could walk this earth.

Precisely one of the reasons why you’d fallen for him so hard. 

After thanking the cookie seller and stuffing one of her Christmas cookies boxes in your bag, you followed the string of people down the line of stands filled with various Christmas-themed items; decorations for sale, gift ideas already wrapped up in their respective bags, food items that would make good appetizers for your own family dinner if you hadn’t already prepared anything. 

"Oh my gosh they’re all so pretty!” You couldn’t stop yourself from exclaiming as you crouched along the row with barely restrained excitement thrumming through your veins, “what do you think? Look at this one!” you held out a glittering gold angel silhouette, “your sister would love that.” 

“Yeah. Unfortunately she’s at that stage where she likes to shove everything in her mouth, edible or not,” Haknyeon grumbled softly, causing you to giggle as you tried to hang it off his ear.

He eyed you with amusement, “Do I look like Christmas tree material?”

"More like boyfriend material,” the words slipped from your mouth before you could stop them, though he just burst out laughing before tugging you closer to drop a kiss at your temple, “you’re so cute.”

Face burning with heat at his bold action, you tried your best not to show your embarrassment, which proved to be useless since he noted the way you ducked your head away and how your hands seemed to pick at your nails in that adorable way of yours whenever you weren’t sure of what you should be doing. 

Deciding to warm yourselves up, you decided to stop by one of the cozy coffee shops that sold only Chocolate-themed desserts. Haknyeon’s excitement doubled when you confessed you’d never actually been to this place, quickly whipping the menu from your hands and promising that this was going to change your life forever.

“You’re in for the biggest surprise of your life,” he stated upon spotting the waitress making her way to your table. You had not failed to notice, in all this flurry of excitement, that his hand had entangled once more if yours under the table and was now currently rubbling circles over your palm. 

You hoped that your face didn’t betray the way your heart was racing about hundred miles an hour.

“Y/N,” he probably noticed your expressions, “you okay?” 

“Y-Yeah,” oh shit. Were you that obvious? “so what’s so special about that place anyway?” 

“I’ll tell you later,” and his hand squeezed yours softly, almost making you gasp at his tenderness.

A few minutes later your table was filled with a moelleux au chocolat and a macha-dark chocolate infused crepe garnished with bananas and snow sugar, accompanied by two hot macha lattes decorated with foamy little kittens.

Haknyeon didn’t hesitate to feed you, even folding the crepe nicely so that there was no need for you to open your mouth wide. Though you made a face at being babied (especially in public), he just insistently kept on urging you until you gave in.

“Good?” he tilted his head, watching you with affection practically brimming through the corners of his eyes. 

You nodded, taking a quick sip of your latte and sighing in bliss, “okay, you win. This is really good.” 

“Told you it would.” 

You cut into the moelleux as the chocolate oozed out of the cake, a delicious sight really. You reached over the table, “your turn now.” 

Haknyeon accepted your offered fork though from the reddish tips of his ears, he was just as embarrassed as you were. This was the first time you two were out in public, officially anyway. Still, you couldn’t help but coo at how cute he was.

“I’m not cute,” he scowled while unable to keep the grin off his face, “you’re the cute one in the relationship.”

“That’s debatable,” you take another bite of the crepe, “have you seen yourself?”

“Actually I have, and I disagree with you.” 

Without warning, he reached over to pinch your cheek, “look at you, so adorable,” he said, laughing as you swatted him away.

It was getting closer to midnight by the time you two hopped off the last night bus to walk towards your house, the streets alight with golden hues cast by the light posts and the snow that bathed the entire scenery in magic. A muffled silence rang through your ears, only interrupted by the soft stomping of your boots up your porch as you looked up and perceived the darkness coming from your humble abode, meaning that everyone was already asleep and no prying eyes would be peeping out at you.

Haknyeon’s grip on your hand tightened ever so slightly when you finally reached your door. Turning to meet his gaze, a small smile tilted your lips upwards when you are met with his eyes that seem to shine brighter than the snowflakes falling to the earth.

“I had a lot of fun today,” you murmur out, scared that speaking too loudly would break the magical bubble you’ve created with Haknyeon by your side, “thank you.” 

"Would you...” he tilted his head to the side, eyes averting for a second before locking with yours once more, “would you be okay to do this again?”

You knew it was eating him up on the inside, but you decide to drag it out of him, pressing your lips and drawing out a hum as if you were thinking it over. 

Haknyeon just shuffled uncomfortably, glad that the darkness was hiding the red flush creeping up his neck.

“Sure,” you grinned then, “why not? I quite liked it--”

And that was when you spotted a gleaming sliver of leaf atop Haknyeon’s head. Your mind stuttered to a stop, heart jumping up through your throat.

“What?” Haknyeon frowned at your shocked face, before tilting his head up. You scrambled to stop him, “don’t!--”

Too late. He gaped at the mistletoe hanging atop his head, blinking slowly. 

And when his head dipped back down slowly to gaze at you, something in his eyes had shifted. His orbs a darker, glimmering obsidian as he seemed to trace your features for a full minute.

Silence. You wondered whether he could hear how your heart was beating a thousand miles an hour.

“It’s just a petty tradition,” you finally found your voice and hoped you didn’t sound so desperate as you struggled to string a coherent sentence together, “I mean, really. Think about it--”

But he only tugged you closer, causing your words to die in the back of your throat as he leaned down so that his nose brushed yours softly, “should we just...” he gave you a look, hesitantly licking his lips and making you swallow, “humour it?” 

It felt like all air had constricted inside your lungs so that no words could make their way out of your mouth. He was so close, chest brushing yours and his hand entangled with your own in a firm grasp that had goosebumps skitter up along your arm. 

Your head dipped into a nod.

Haknyeon’s sigh was shaky. His other hand softly skimmed along your waist to pull you closer still, before he tilted his head and softly, tenderly allowed his lips to touch yours.

Your heart skipped a beat. He was so warm. His lips so soft. 

It was impossible not to melt slightly.

When it was clear that you had no intentions of pushing him away, Haknyeon proceeded to pull you even closer so that your curves blended into his frame, causing your lips to part with a soft gasp, one that he swallowed as he proceeded to kiss you a little deeper, a little longer. He massaged your lips with his own plush ones, catching your lip, kissing it, before going to your lower lip and letting his teeth nibble on the patch of skin with growing endearment. The sensation had sparks fly through your chest, butterflies practically rocking through your body as your lips gently moved back against his, as shyly as a baby fawn taking its first steps and Haknyeon would be lying to say that his own heart hadn’t leapt in excitement at how innocent you were, at the purity of your kiss, your lips.

When you parted, it was only to come up for air and he took this chance to run his thumb over your lower lip in adoration.

“Merry Christmas Y/N,” he breathed, nuzzling the side of your face before burying his nose into your hair.

Your hands wound around him in a gentle hug and you closed your eyes, allowed yourself to feel his warmth encircle you, “merry christmas Hak.”

--

[romanianseba]

Salty Pasta

Pairing: Sebastian Stan x Reader

Summary: Dinner with Sebastian.

Warnings: none, but fluff!!!

World Count: 1.4k

A/N: i believe I wrote this when seb was in greece last year filming monday, so tanned sebastian was in my mind just so you know. this is one of my favorite things i've written and i don't know why i didn't post it sooner (also, hope this doesn't make sense only for me) i hope you enjoy this in this weird times we're living.

—

"You don't like the pasta." Sebastian commented suddenly from across the table.

It was a nice, chill, summer night you were spending on a small table situated outside a quaint Italian-themed restaurant. You looked up at him with a slight frown, taken aback when he said just what you were thinking.

"Do you?" He quirked an eyebrow when you didn't respond, his eyes on you.

You shrugged unbothered, not wanting to let a small thing ruin the beautiful moment you were having together because, knowing Sebastian, he wouldn't let it down if you said the truth.

"Babe, I know you. You always eat what you don't like first; completely. If you happened to like everything in your plate right now, you'll be eating it all together."

"It's too salty." You mumbled, giving up. Known to be a terrible liar, you didn't really stand a chance.

"Is it?" His brows frowned together as you nodded. "And why are you still eating it?" He chuckled.

"It's okay." Shaking your head you smiled softly as he leaned to take a taste of your pasta.

"Babe, it's too salty!"

"I know." You winced.

"Why didn't you say anything? Let me call the waitress."

"No! Sebastian, it's fine, really." You grabbed his wrist when he reached to take your plate.

"Babe, we're paying for this. As customers we have the right to give opinions."

"Look, I know that. But what if this person gets fired? I couldn't carry with the guilt."

His expression softened. "Your heart is pure gold, doll. But we need to tell them. In a nice way obviously, as a suggestion only. Maybe they made a mistake. They'll thank us you'll see."

"Seb..." You begged when he turned around his chair to call the waitress.

"I'm not gonna enjoy the rest of this dinner knowing that you're not enjoying yours, I'm not letting you finish this pasta. So we tell them or I'll eat it myself because I know you don't want to feel like we're wasting food." He said firmly.

You sighed. "Okay, but just don't tell them to bring a better pasta. Just give them the suggestion and I'll order something else."

"Of course, sweetheart." He leaned across the table to kiss your forehead and turned around to call the waitress. The young woman approached the table as soon as she realized she was being called.

"Is everything okay?" She asked with a lovely Italian accent, wearing a kind smile on her face.

You smiled at her and looked at Sebastian who was looking at you. He smiled and looked up at the waitress.

"Yeah, thank you very much. It's just that the pasta my wife ordered is very salty." He explained politely.

Your smile grew bigger. You loved to hear Sebastian letting people know you were his wife. Your heart would always jump happily inside your chest. You just loved the reminder of it coming from his voice, because one; you were his wife and two; he would always say it with a joyful little smile on his face. Your smile reached your eyes because you loved the condition he was in. Slightly sunburned, a simple white t-shirt, shorts, messy hair, and a relaxed expression on his beautiful, beard covered face. He was finally not looking tired after the past exhausted months he went through, between traveling, filming, press tours and premieres.

Your hand supporting your chin, all sounds and all actions happening around him being blocked out; you were in the middle of admiring your husband when you felt your plate being retired and Sebastian returned his attention to you. You came out of your trance to realize that the waitress was also looking at you now, a polite smile still on her face. You looked back at Sebastian, completely lost at where their conversation had gone and now, apparently, they were both expecting you to say something.

"She asked if you want to try a different kind of pasta. She says that's how people usually eat it here, saltier than pasta usually should be. Most costumers are regulars here and that's how they like it." Sebastian informed you when he saw the confusion in your eyes, urging him to explain to you what was going on.

"Uhm, yes, of course." You said nervously to the waitress, embarrassment taking over your features after being caught not paying attention, flush creeping up your face.

"I'll bring it back to you, Mrs." She said politely and walked away.

When you turned back to Sebastian, he was looking at you, his lip between his teeth in an attempt to hide his amusement. You laughed, playfully throwing your napkin at him.

"What happened, babe? Got a little distracted?" He made fun of you.

"I was just thinking how relaxed you look right now. Makes me happy to see you in such state of peace."

"C'mon, just confess you're utterly in love with me."

"Oh, that I am for sure. You're out here looking beautifully sun-kissed, it's just unfair for the rest of us. My pregnancy hormones are not helping either."

He grinned. Leaning across the small table -so small, your knees were touching his- he cupped your cheeks in his hands and pressed a tender kiss to your lips.

"You look wonderful." Sebastian murmured against your lips. "The most stunning momma out there."

He kissed you again as you wrapped one hand around his wrist. This kiss lasted longer and you were almost positive you had eyes on you already but you didn't care. It was a soft kiss and you rarely kissed in public. Not wanting to be that clingy couple to the world, you two enjoyed those moments to yourselves really most of the time.

But you melted with his touch immediately against his soft lips. You felt like jelly, only being held together by this man.

"I do feel relaxed." He said when he pulled away, leaving you floating in the air.

"That's what you deserve, honey." You managed to say after composing from the feeling of his lips against yours, and reached to steal some veggies from his plate. "The amount of times I saw you in the verge of collapsing during the past months. I would cry my eyes out, specially after you got me pregnant. I got very sensitive."

You saw the quick change of emotion on his eyes, a glint of sorrow when you mentioned crying for him and a joyful sparkle when you pointed out he got you pregnant. And his response was the exact reflection of those emotions; he said; "Oh God!" In the most adorable way, something he always said when he felt joyful and excited about something, and then; "I'm really sorry." Something he always says because that's how Sebastian is, it's his nature.

"Are you sorry for leaving me pregnant or for making me distressed?" You teased, already knowing the answer.

"I could never regret leaving a baby in you, is the most amazing thing in the world. You look gorgeous with a pregnant belly and I cannot wait to meet that little human being you're so courageously carrying with." His voice broke a little, his gaze full of love and emotion causing happy tears to come rushing to your eyes. "I do feel sorry for making you worry about me. I promise it won't happen again."

"I'll always worry about you not matter what, Sebastian." You giggled.

"Okay, yeah I know, but I won't give you reasons to get over worried. Not anymore."

"Thank you very much, sir." You beamed at him and he grinned back, playfully rolling his eyes.

"Here it is, Mrs. We're sorry for the misunderstanding, I hope you enjoy." The waitress came back and she placed your plate back in front of you.

"Thank you very much." You smiled at her.

Flushing once again for being caught when you and Sebastian were in your own bubble, looking at each other with goofy smiles on your faces. She kindly asked if you wanted something else and then just walked away.

"How is it now?" Sebastian asked as you both continued talking, pointing at your pasta.

"It's real good." You said, chewing some bread.

"Is it?"

You nodded.

"Are you sure?"

"Pretty sure. I'm fine. Wanna try?"

"Oh, I know you are. But I'm asking how's your food."

You rolled your eyes. "Dear God."

"What?" He smiled innocently. "Hey, I thought you were talking about yourself."

"Stop it, silly."

You laughed, he laughed. And the night continued like that. Just you and Sebastian talking about everything and anything. From silly little things to how life would be as parents to more silly comments to what you were both most afraid about being new parents, baby names, encouraging comments to each other, loving glances, getting lost admiring each other's features and just a magical perfect night.

[ad1thi]

aankhon mein teri

Summary: It should be noted, for the sake of posterity - that Steve usually wasn’t one to buy into the craze that surrounded celebrities. At the end of the day, they were still people. Tony Stark though, that was his exception.

insp // part of my series bollywood but make it gay

au - modern, actor! tony stark, illustrator! steve rogers, meet cute, pining, pre slash, tony stark is steve’s celebrity crush, 1.5k(ish)

//

It was a truth universally known, that there were two kinds of people on this planet. There was the kind that everybody fawned over, the kind that was put behind the lens of a camera and splayed out on billboards for tens of thousands of adoring fans to gaze up to in admiration; and there was the kind that spent their lives in the shadow of such people - waiting with baited breath to be touched with their light. 

Steve Rogers firmly fell into the second kind, but he wasn’t upset about it. Steve knew his place in the world, and he would gladly give up a spot in the limelight if it meant that it was shining on the likes of Tony Stark. It should be noted, for the sake of posterity - that Steve usually wasn’t one to buy into the craze that surrounded celebrities. At the end of the day, they were still people. Tony Stark though, that was his exception. There was just something about him, the way he -

“Hey!” Steve yelps, reaching out blindly to steady himself when Bucky pushes his legs off his desk, “what was that for?”

“You have that stupid look on your face,” Bucky says, “you were thinking of Stark again weren’t you?”. Steve doesn’t respond, instead opting to glare at his best friend. From the way his cheeks heat up though, he supposes that the effect of the glare is somewhat dimmed. 

“One of these days Stevie,” Bucky says, shaking his head, “you’ve got to get your head out of the clouds”

“My head’s not stuck in the clouds,” Steve grumbles, extending his leg to kick at Bucky, “I just think he’s neat is all”

“Yeah I’ve heard it all before,” Bucky leans forward with a manic grin, “which is why you’re gonna love me after you find out what I’ve got you for your birthday���

“Buck, I thought we agreed; no gifts!”. The economy hadn’t been kind to either of them; and it was a sheer stroke of luck that Steve was scraping enough together as an illustrator to keep a roof over their heads.

“Yeah we did, but I didn’t pay nothing for these babies,” Bucky says with a waggle of his eyebrows, “I got these for free”

Bucky pulls out two tickets from his pocket and waves them in front of Steve with a flourish. Steve reaches out to grab them, bringing them closer to read because he isn’t wearing his glasses. In the background, Bucky is saying “Am I the world’s bestfriend or what?” but Steve is no longer listening. 

“These are -” he points at the tickets and then looks back up at Bucky, “these are tickets for Tony Stark’s new movie premiere” 

“I know,” Bucky says, extremely smug.

“These are tickets for Tony Stark’s new movie premiere,” Steve says again, because it bears repeating, “for the movie premiere in Manhattan tonight”

Bucky leans down and places both hands on his shoulders, squeezing lightly, “you’re gonna get the chance to see your beau up close and personal Stevie”

The sound that Steve makes when he finally realises what he's holding in his hands is inhumane.

/

Steve has never been one to gripe about his clothes, content in what little he has, but that all changes tonight. At the risk of sounding like a girl in one of those soaps that his mother is always watching, Steve has nothing to wear. 

He twists this way and that in front of the mirror - assessing his one good suit, the one he generally reserves for business interviews and the like, and manfully resists the urge to tear it at the seams. The suit might be good enough to meet the occasional managing director, but Steve cannot show up to Tony Stark’s movie premiere in this. It’s simply not done.

“Steve honey!” his mother knocks on the door, huffing when she sees the way he’s glaring at himself in the mirror, “honey Bucky’s waiting for you downstairs; you’re going to be late”

“I’m not going,” he says, turning to face his mother with a frown, “I have nothing to wear”

“What’s wrong with what you’re wearing now?” his mother asks, brushing non-existent lint off his shoulders, “I think you look dashing” 

Steve just shrugs. There’s no good way to explain to your mother that a suit she bought for you with her hard earned money isn’t good enough for the actor who doesn’t know you exist. From the look she gives him though, Steve has the feeling that she already knows. 

His mother pulls at his tie slightly, silently gesturing for him to bend so that she can adjust it properly, “You look absolutely smashing darling, and if this isn’t good enough for your Tony Stark; well then maybe you should reconsider whether he’s the right man for you”

“You’re just saying that because you’re my mother,” Steve says in an accusing tone, but he still presses a kiss to her cheek and follows her down to where Bucky is waiting for him; one foot already out the door. 

“About time you brought your bony ass down,” Bucky says, “we’re going to be late. Bye Miss Rogers!” he calls over his shoulder, pulling Steve out the door and shoving him into the car. Steve barely has time to wave to his Ma before Bucky puts one foot on the gas and turns off their street. 

For all his complaining about being late, Steve and Bucky actually make it relatively early to the premiere. There’s a couple of people milling about, but not enough that they have to push through a huge crowd - so they take the opportunity to position themselves as close to the red carpet as possible. 

It’s only after the crowd starts filling out and some of the supporting cast members take to the red carpet that the reality of what’s about to happen truly hits Steve, and he turns to Bucky with wide eyes, “I’m about to see Tony Stark Buck. In person”

Bucky stops craning his neck to give Steve a rueful smile, “yeah you are punk - but if you keep looking at my ugly mug; you’re gonna miss it,” he grabs Steve’s chin and turns him to the road, where a black limousine is pulling up, “look - its your beau”

The driver steps out first, a burly man in a suit that’s more expensive than anything Steve’s ever owned; and he goes around to open up the passenger door. There’s a beat of silence; where fans and press alike are holding their breath - and then Tony Stark steps out, and Steve swears his heart drops. 

Tony looks absolutely resplendent, and Steve itches for a sketchbook to capture him. One hand fiddles with the button of his blazer while the other comes up to wave at the crowd; mouth stretched in a soft smile. 

It isn’t that Steve wasn’t aware of how attractive Tony was, he’s always been aware of how attractive Tony was, but it was one thing to see him in photos and videos; and another thing to see Tony Stark in person. He seemed to radiate beauty, and it was in everything he did: from the way he glided across the red carpet to the way he effortlessly dodged the thousands of fans that were reaching out to touch him, to be able to bask in his glory. 

Later, if you asked Steve to explain what happened - he couldn’t. But Bucky says it happened something like this.

Tony walks past them, and while he’s not facing them; it’s enough for Steve to just be this close to him. But then, inexplicably, Steve’s bracelet gets caught on the button of Tony’s blazer, on the hand that’s lying limply on his side - and Steve gets pulled onto the red carpet.

It doesn’t last more than a couple of seconds, because it doesn’t take long for Tony to realise that someone is pulling his hand. He turns to Steve with a mixture of confusion and anger, and Steve - at a loss for words; simply lifts up his wrist to show that no, he isn’t a creep that’s grabbed Tony’s hand, he’s simply been caught along for the ride. 

“Oh,” Tony says softly, face softening into one of amusement, and he reaches out to gently unclasp the bracelet from his blazer, “sorry about that”

Steve wants to tell him that there’s nothing to be sorry about, that Steve would gladly be attached to Tony’s blazer any day; but before he can get a word out - security grabs him with both arms and drags him away. The last thing that Steve sees before he’s thrown back into the crowd is Tony’s brilliant smile - concentrated completely on him.

Fin

[hes-writer]

Better Half

Summary: Y/N has a bun in the oven and Harry’s not up for it

Warnings: angst

Word Count: 1710 words

--------------

Being a couple for over three years definitely makes you realize how much one can grow as a person. Harry and Y/N were no exception. 

She was in university when they first met—him being invited to a house party while she had just finished her exams for the term. He was the star of the night—famous, popular Mr. Harry Styles dresses in casual Gucci from head to toe, yet his appearance never caved with his personality. He was the sweetest of the bunch–the life of the party. He made horrible jokes that still managed to plant a smile on everyone’s faces. The stress of school and degrees disappearing from undergraduates’ faces because of him and for a moment; they forgot that he wasn't one of them. He was a famous pop star–a rock icon that has not stepped foot in the chilly great walls of large universities that sucked endless amounts of money from mere students. 

It wasn’t a bad thing, per say, he just went a different direction with his life. Instead of spending his teens being tormented by pressure of having dates during school dances, Harry was out having late nights at the studio to delve into a new song to write. Unlike Y/N who almost chewed the ends of her hair off studying for her Chemistry test one night, Harry was out walking a red carpet premiere for the VMA’s. 

But none of that mattered—especially when Harry approached Y/N at the corner of the room, drinking her own mix of liquor that was enough to get her tipsy. The leather couch was soft but the exterior was cracking. He sat down beside her with his legs spread wide to which she glared at him for—not realizing who he was. But it shouldn’t matter anyway. She wasn’t going to put him on a pedestal. 

They got to talking. The ambiance of the party root too intense for them so Harry and Y/N separated themselves from the crowd. He spoke passionately about his job—the pressure, his influence, touring—everything that he has had the pleasure of experiencing in his short years of life. Y/N spilled her struggles getting into graduate school with a GPA that was on the brink of disappointment—how she spent her last semester as an undergraduate scavenging for extra credit and work experience to satisfy what her grades couldn’t. She was smart—Harry told her. And indeed she was, school just wasn’t measuring it the way it was meant to. 

By the end of the night, they had shared information about each other more than either of them have to another person. Real feelings projecting themselves from their deepest parts, being spilled to a near stranger. Their emotions being validated by one another. The more things change, the more they stay the same. And maybe Y/N’s problems were very dissimilar to Harry’s—but nobody can deny that the obstacles they faced made them who they are today. 

---

If anything, Y/N would probably credit Harry for everything that has happened in the past years of her life. He was there for her—through thick and thin, sickness and in health—and it almost seemed that they were to be wed. 

Except, one thing happened that she didn't expect. 

---

“What's this?” Harry whispered, eyes set stoned on the pink pregnancy test he clutched between his fingers. 

Y/N looked at him fearfully, voice shaking while she answered, “It’s a pregnancy test, Har.”

She gulped the lump in her throat when he didn't respond for a solid few seconds. His eyes twitching ever so often from her to the device—mouth forming words around nothing that would come out of him. 

“I-it’s—”

“It's positive, yeah,” Y/N interrupted. “We’re having a baby,” She gently concluded seeing as though he seemed a little shook at the moment. 

His neck snapped up to make his head meet her eyes. He was drawing holes through her skull as he stared at him with an intense look in his gaze—this was not good. He pursed his lips, allowing a moment of acceptance (and denial) to overflow his brain. Harry’s heart was pounding to an extreme and his throat felt dry despite downing a glass of water. 

“You're pregnant,” He enunciated, staring at her middle section. He scanned her figure to see any changes due to pregnancy and indeed–he found some. 

Y/N nodded in response, palms clutching her belly softly. She blinked effortlessly at him since he hadn't responded to the news after all. 

“H?” She questioned, stepping closer to touch his arm. He moved away, feet declining a couple of steps. 

“No, that can't be—we were careful!” He retorted. Nimble fingers pulled on the hair of his scalp, making the silky locks cause pain on his head. “This is not happening,” He whispered breathily. 

This absolutely cannot be happening right now. 

He sat himself on the couch, knees spread wide apart with his head in his hands. His life was flashing before his eyes. 

Y/N felt chills breeze through her body from the sudden gust of wind, or Harry’s reaction—she didn't know. She was much too preoccupied with handling the situation at hand. What did he mean ‘this is not happening’? Did he not want it?

She didn't have to wait for an answer for long. 

“It's not mine, is it?” 

Y/N gaped at him in shock, “Of course it is!” She couldn't believe that he would accuse her of something like this. Yet, as she made eye contact with him—she couldn't help but be persuaded that he did not back up his relentless denial; he was afraid of change. 

“If you say so,” he shrugged casually as if his words didn't just snap her heart in two. 

---

He was too young, Harry said. He was at the peak of his career—his second album was on its way to be released and he would be too busy afterwards. Tour, promos, premiers—he was to do every bit of those while raising a child? It just wasn't possible. 

He was a busy man and a huge change like this would only damage everything he had worked so hard for. He could imagine the headline “Father at twenty-five” and his ego couldn't handle the criticism he would receive. 

Harry was not ready to take on such a responsibility. He was afraid of the unknown and he knew his mother tirelessly paved a way for his younger self to thrive in, but Harry wasn't sure f he could provide the same nurturing element in his child’s life. He was away half of the time—it wouldn't be good anyway. 

He would be living in FaceTime because he would be on the other side of the world. He would have to live with the pain of missing their child’s birthday—their first steps, words; everything. 

“That's it?” Y/N pried, “That's your excuse?”

He nodded, said that he could provide the money and financial stability if they needed it. But he couldn't account himself to be more than just a provider for. 

And Harry was shooting up all these excuses to avoid what was to happen, not taking into account the two-fold experience of fear that Y/N must be going through. 

“You can keep it if you want,” 

To which Y/N looked at him, disgusted. 

“Of course, I’ll keep it.”

“That's not what I meant,” Harry would never push Y/N to get an abortion, but he wouldn't force her to keep the baby if she didn't want it either. 

It was her body— her choice and Harry was completely supportive of that notion. Of course, he preferred that she keep the child and raise it the way it deserves to be, but he has no say in this case. 

---

Y/N tried to understand. Really, she did. But no matter how much she tried, her mind couldn't wrap around the fact that Harry flat-out crushed her future dreams. They were supposed to get married and have a family some day. Sure, it didn't go chronologically but she truly believed in the promises they made to each other. 

“What happened to that?” She asked. 

He only shook his head knowingly. Y/N was smart and she knew what it all meant. If he couldn't stick around because of the child in her, then there was no way that he would stay around for long. 

He wouldn't understand—however—the daily fears creeping up at the back of mind. How was she supposed to do this alone? She knows that her family would be around to help but knowing that the love of her life wouldn’t be around to watch their child grow into a beautiful human being strikes her to the very core. 

——

As Y/N bid goodbye to Harry at the chilling hours of the morning at the airport, she did her best to push tears back to her eyes, seeing as though she felt as if she lost a part of her that she needed to keep standing. He walked away—looking back once with sad eyes—ripping and shredding pieces of Y/N’s heart along with him. She palmed the growing bump in her belly—pounding slightly as if it had its own heartbeat but really, it was only hers that punctuated itself to the point of reverberation because she was so frightened of the future. 

Albeit she was a little angry at him for leaving on the day of her ultrasound, Y/N let her nerves overpower her emotions for him. She wasn’t going to let Harry’s weeping excuse of fatherhood interrupt her aspirations of being a mother that was always there for her children, regardless of whether they were born or not. Her knees jostled against each other from her uncontrollable trembling, jaw rapidly closing and shutting as her teeth gritted together as she waited for the results. 

And there it was, about the size of a grain of rice—her little baby. 

-------------

let me know what you thought!

[mirkwoodshewolf]

You’re not him; Jack Kline x reader

*Author’s note*

Okay so SPOILER ALERT!!!! IF YOU HAVEN’T WATCHED THE PREMIERE EPISODE OF SPN THEN STOP RIGHT HERE AND GO WATCH IT BEFORE READING THIS FIC!!! If you have seen the episode then you can stay, so if you don’t want to be spoiled PLEASE. LEAVE. NOW!! 

So warning wise it’s the typical SPN warning; swearing, violence, zombies, ghosts, and there is a scene with kissing w/o consent (ALWAYS ASK BEFORE KISSING OR TOUCHING SOMEONE. CONSENT IS POWER!!) other than that, not really anything else. Hope you all enjoy this fic :)

Taglist:

@psychosupernatural

@plethora-of-things

@ixchel-9275

@waddles03

________________________________________________________

Well we were screwed….no I don’t even think screwed is even the right word I would use right now.  Here we are trapped like rats in a crypt with a bunch of possessed zombies trying to break down the door.  As my brothers and Cas were trying to figure a way out of this place or how to stop those—things outside, I was on the ground touching Jack’s cheek.

Thanks to the bastard Chuck, Jack’s forever gone.  His eyes burned out and I knew that there was no coming back from that. This was all too much for me. Jack didn’t deserve something like this, no one did. Not Pamela, not Kevin, and certainly not Jack.

“Jack—” I muttered as I leaned my forehead against his chest.  Why must everything bad happen to those we care about? Just shortly before Lucifer stole Jack’s grace, the two of us admitted to each other while we were stuck in Apocalypse world with Mary that we started developing feelings for each other.

While he was fully human, I taught him the basic necessities on how to stay alive.  And from there we just—kinda grew closer to each other.  Even when he burned out his soul, he somehow made me still believe that he was in love with me.

Now he’s gone.

Suddenly I began to hear something.  Something from within the walls.  As my brothers kept arguing with each other, I pressed my ear to the wall.

“(Y/n)? (N/n).” Dean said.

“Guys I—I think there’s a pipeline in here.”

“Probably a sewage line.” Both Sam and Dean came up and Sam helped me stand back up while both he and Dean removed the concrete slab to reveal the brick structure underneath.  Using the iron pick they chipped away at the brick wall but suddenly coming out was a possessed corpse.

I jumped back screaming.  God I hate it when those things do that.  Cas then picked up the concrete slab and slammed it right on top of the corpse which killed it but the ghost that had it possessed took off flying.

“God I hate it when that happens!”

“You’ve been doing this since you were ten, how does that still scare you?” asked Dean.

“Hey give me a wendigo, vamp, werewolf, leviathan, whatever any day. But having something that just pops out, especially when they look like they’re from the Thriller music video, forget it!”

“Well so much for your pipe theory, now what do we do?”

“Hello.” No. It—it can’t be.  We all turned around and there stood Jack alive!

My heart stopped and I froze like a deer in headlight.

“Jack? You’re alive?” Sam asked in disbelief.  It can’t be, it just can’t be. Please anyone but god tell me this is a joke.

“That’s not Jack. It’s a demon.” Cas said. At that point, I was enraged. Okay making my older brother into one, and forcing my big brother into being the vessel of the devil himself is one thing, but no I repeat no demon should ever, ever possess Jack’s body.

“What?”

“Yeah.” The demon said using Jack’s voice. “Sorry about that.” he shrugged nonchalantly.

“How in the hell—”

“Look I just got here and I needed a body so—”

“So you are a demon.” Sam asked to confirm this was a demon and not one of those spirits that came out of hell.

“Yeah. I would do the whole eyes thing but—no eyes.” He then walked over towards my bag and pulled out the sunglasses he and I once bought for him when he and I had some downtime together a few months back before we hung out with those teens we saved from the psycho serial killer clown.

“Put those down!” I snapped.  Of course he ignored me and put the shades over his eyes and he said.

“Sorry but I gotta blend in.”

“Get out of him!” Cas sneered.

“Look I know it’s weird. Okay where do I start? Like the first day of school. Hi, uhh my name’s Belphegor I—” I snapped as I trudged up towards him, gripped him by the throat and pinned him against the wall holding my demon blade.

“Get. Out of him!”

“Ooo wow kitty’s got claws. I like that in a woman. I would wink but like I said—no eyes.”

“I’m not gonna ask you again you son of a bitch!”

“Look, hey I can get you out of here. I can help.”

“(Y/n).” Dean said to me trying to get me to get off this demon possessing my boyfriend’s corpse.

“No, I’m with (y/n) on this. He’s an abomination!” Cas said as he came up over my shoulder.

“You’re an abomination with that stupid, dumb trench coat.” I pressed the blade closer to the demon’s neck and I snarled at him.

“You don’t get to talk to him!”

“(Y/n) hey, hey okay back off! Back up!” Dean said as he came up and forced me off the demon.

“He’s defiling his corpse Dean! And you’re acting like you don’t even give a shit! What if this were Mary, huh?!”

“Hey listen to me She-wolf. Jack’s gone! Okay I know you don’t want to admit it yet but your boyfriend’s gone! Now I say we just listen to what he has to say, and if we don’t like it. Then you and Cas can stab him.”

“(Y/n),” Sam’s voice spoke up softly.  I turned towards him and he agreed with Dean. “He’s right. We need to get out of here.” I forced myself out of Dean’s grip and walked away and faced the wall.

“Whew, feisty. She available?”

“Hey focus back to right here!” Dean snapped.

“Right. Look I’m not a crossroads demon or one of those black eyed ones that ooze slime to take out virgins or puppies or—virgin puppies. I like my job, I check in a soul, torment it. Repeat. Simple basic eternity to eternity job. You want all those bad guys back where they came from right? Me too. I mean—we’re like twinses guys.”

“We are not twinses!” Cas snarled.

“Can you fix this?” asked Sam gesturing towards outside.

“Umm no. but I can get you out of here.”

“How?” asked Dean.

“A little spell. You know nothing major.” God he was such a pain in the ass with his cycling of nonchalant teasing. “See a little graveyard dirt, and some uhh angel blood.”

“Cas.” I turned and watched as Cas reluctantly cut his palm with his angel blade and allowed some blood to flow into the demon’s hand.

“Oh wait, one more thing; I also need a lock of hair from a beautiful girl.” Oh hell no!

“You’re making that part up.” Cas stated.

“Actually I’m not. I need the hair otherwise it won’t work.” I walked up to him and Cas said.

“(Y/n) wait, you don’t have to do it. You know he’s lying.”

“Cas I don’t like it as much as you do but—what if he is telling the truth?” he and I looked at each other before I walked right up to the demon possessing my boyfriend’s body.  He gave me Jack’s famed grin that once made me flutter and go weak at the knees.

“Well beautiful?” I took out my pocketknife and picked up a strand of my long hair. Then I cut a strand from underneath so that way no one would notice an uneven strand of hair.

I held the hair in my hands and hesitantly held it over Jack’s hand before finally placing it on top of the dirt and Cas’ blood.  Just before I could remove my hand from his palm, his hand closed over mine and he hummed.

“Mm, so soft. Fierce and calloused but very soft at the same time. Been awhile since I held a girl’s hand.” I quickly took back my hand and held it over my chest and turned away getting creeped out.  Cas protectively wrapped his arm around me as the demon then just held his arms out like he was about to do a chant.

But all he did next was clap his hands, the soil, blood and my hair fell to the ground. At first I thought it did nothing, that was until I heard nothing but silence outside.

“Huh.” He bragged.  I was the first to race outside and all there were around were dead corpses no longer possessed.

“Holy shit.” I muttered.

“Didn’t I tell you? It worked. High five.” Belphegor said.

“The spirits have been destroyed.” Cas said as he walked ahead.

“No, I just blasted them out of those bodies. Yeah.”

“So where the hell are they now?” asked Dean.

We were now in the car driving on home hoping to figure out a plan.  Thankfully Cas sat between me and the demon possessing Jack because all the while through the drive, I could feel his—well metaphorically speaking his eyes were on me.

“You know—you’ve got some good style taste there doll. I like ‘em.”

“Don’t call me doll.” I lowly muttered.

“Alright Romeo enough with the flirting back there. That’s our sister and I wouldn’t press her if I were you. You think we’re bad, she’s worse than us.” Dean spoke.

“Empty threats. Not to say that you’re not strong there doll. I mean—every female demons has envied you for the way you’ve been known to torture us. In fact some learn from you.”

“Flattery will get you nowhere with me.”

“On that note explain to me this, how many souls are we talking about specifically?” asked Sam trying to drive the conversation away.

“What you mean in hell?” asked Belphegor as Sam nodded.

“Oh I don’t know 2-3 billion.” Great.

“Okay for now we just stick to the plan. We head back to the bunker. Figure a way to close the riff.” Dean said as he kept driving.

“If you can.” Said Belphegor.

“You got any better ideas?”

“I do not. But if you wanna buy some time, you could just—contain the ghosts.”

“How?” I asked.

“Magic.” He stated with a shrug.

“And you just happen to know the right spell?” asked Cas skeptically.

“Lucky you.”

“What do you mean by contain them?” questioned Dean.

“Magical circle about a mile wide. No ghosts get in, no ghost get out.”

“Yeah, great, great.”

“But Sam we can’t. Harland, Kansas is less than a mile from the cemetery. What are we gonna do about the people there?”

“We get them out.” Dean stated.  

“How?” asked Cas.

“We lie.”

As we drove on we soon found an abandoned car still running up ahead with its lights on.

“Whoa, whoa pull over for a second Dean.” Dean did as Sam suggested and we parked right behind the abandoned car.  My brothers and I got out of Baby and we shined out flashlights on the car.  

The first thing I noticed was the blood along the window, the radio was still playing but there was no body so this wasn’t your typical murder.  Yet for some reason this scene was very familiar to me.

“This look so familiar to you guys?” asked Dean.

“Looks like a—woman in white.” Said Sam.

“Exactly.” I remembered back on the first case after we got Sam out of Stanford of the woman in white.

“Guys….I think this is our woman in white.”

“No way we sent her to hell years ago.” Dean said.

“No think about it. God opens up the doorway to hell, every soul to ever go down there escapes. Including our woman in white.” I explained.

“But then that means if she’s back—” Sam stated off before Dean finished his brother’s thought.

“Then every last one we ever killed and sent down there is back.” Well that’s just great.

By morning, donning on our fake FBI uniforms, we headed for Harland and began to evacuate the city.

“Alright look (y/n). Sam and I got the evacuation part down, so why don’t you and Cas take Crowley Jr. and get him the things he needs.”

“Are you serious Dean?” I snapped. “Dean you—you really don’t care how this is making me feel do you? I—I can’t even look at him. I just—I just can’t…..” I took off down the street and he called out to me.

I sat down on a nearby bench and pressed my face into hands trying to contain my sobs but I could feel tears in my eyes.

“(Y/n).” I looked up to see Cas standing over me.  He sat down beside me and I said to him.

“If you’re—trying to make me go back there and make amends with Dean then uhh—” I looked around and found an abandoned half eaten peanut butter and jelly sandwich. “I’m about to hit you in the head with a PB&J sandwich.”

“No, no I—I get why you walked away from him. I—can’t even look at….you know. So I can’t imagine how it must be for you. After all you and Jack….”

“It may have seemed difficult to decipher our relationship especially when his soul completely burned out. But—somehow even in that soulless way, he still made me believe he was in love with me. I have no idea how but—he did. I just….feel like this is all my fault.”

“It wasn’t. The only person to blame for Jack’s death is God. All this time following his orders and commands, and this is how I’m repaid.”

“To be fair we did kinda make you turn against your traditionalist ways. I mean remember how you were back then.”

“Yeah I guess I did have a stick up my butt.”

“Not even a stick is big enough Cas to describe how stuck-up you were.” I teased which caused the two of us for the first time to actually laugh.  It was small but still a laugh.  “I just wish he was still here. Like here here, not some demon possessing him using his voice and doing those little quirks he did.”

“I know. So do I.” he wrapped his arm around my shoulder and hugged me close to him. “So do I. I promised his mom I would take care of him, now I feel like I let her down. Again.”

Eventually I went with Cas and Sam to do some evacuations.  I went to one house just three blocks from where Cas went.  Holding my shotgun close and ready to fire in case any ghosts came up, I called out.

“Hello? Anybody here?” I cautiously walked along the hallways leading towards the upstairs bedrooms.  But when I opened the door, I held in my puke for right there before me were two teenage girls around my age covered in blood, however most of the blood came from their eyes and I knew only one legend that ever made that happen.

Bloody Mary.

I quickly raced to find a nearby mirror.  It worked on her once before and it should work on her again.  But just as I went to grab the mirror that hung in the hallway, she suddenly appeared before me in my reflection then turned into me.

Blood started tearing down my face as I couldn’t look away now.  She had me.

“Been a long time Winchester sister. And in all that time you’ve become a killer, just like your brothers. All those people you’ve helped kill, Kevin, Charlie, Bobby, but worst of all precious Jack. It’s your fault all this happened to him. If he hadn’t liked you, he’d still have his grace.”

“Shut up……shut up!” I soon felt this agonizing pain as I collapsed into the table and she soon came out of the mirror repeating over and over that it was my fault, my fault, my fault.

“Hey.” Oh shit it—it couldn’t be him. I looked up and through the blood that had dripped down from my eyes, I could see Jack’s body standing before us.  Bloody Mary turned into Jack and said.

“You’re a true monster. Killing Sam and Dean Winchester’s mother. Releasing the archangel Michael, it’s all your fault.”

“Yeah sorry there Mary but,” he lifted his shades revealing the burnt out holes in them. “Plus I’m not this guy uhh—Jack. So you might as well hit the road bitch cause honestly out of all the legends you were the worst, and as a demon I don’t mean in the good way.” Mary phased back into herself and launched at the demon but he held up a mirror before her.

And just like last time, her reflection spoke back to her which killed her right then and there.  The mirror shattered and the demon shook the glass off of him.

“That bitch is gonna have it in for me when I get back. Lucky for her, I’ve got something up my sleeve for her for leaving hell in the first place.” Slowly I got up and wiped the blood out of my eyes. “Red looks good on you.” I growled and steadied myself up along the wall. “What? No thank you for saving your ass?”

“Not from you. Had it been Cas or Sam I would thank them. But not to creeps like you.”

“Aww c’mon babe after all the fun we had last night?”

“That was for the spell only and you know it! Now did you find your ingredients for the spell? Does Dean even know you left him?”

“Technically no. See for whatever reason I found myself here and I could hear you screaming….well bloody Mary up here so I figured might as well save one Winchester, maybe their cute sister and maybe get on a better side with you and the others.”

“Saving my life doesn’t atone for what you are.” I said as I cleaned my face up in the bathroom.

“Why so stuck on me? It’s not like I had a choice. This body was the nearest one I could find. I would’ve found another back at the cemetery but those meat suits were well you know. Wormy. Difficult to blend. I sorta got an answer from your brother but I wanna hear your side now. Who was he to you?”

I turned the tap off and stared at him through the mirror.  I dabbed my eyes with a towel and muttered.

“He was a friend.”

“Ahh there it is.”

“What’s there?” I demanded.

“See down there,” he pointed downward gesturing to hell. “You may be praised for your fighting skills and some torture methods. But you are laughed at for your lying skills. I mean I know there’s some truth to it, but I know there’s gotta be more.”

He then slowly walked closer towards me as he continued.

“So c’mon just between us. Was he—Your confidant? Your secret keeper?” he now stood almost chest to chest with me as he now had me up against the vanity counter. “Your boyfriend?” at that my breath hitched sharply. “Ahhh, ding-ding. Seems I’ve found a winner?”

“So what if he was? Just because you have his body and use his voice to talk, doesn’t mean that you’re him. So stop with the flirtation and just—” suddenly I felt his lips on mine.

I almost lashed out but I was suddenly hit back to the time Jack and I shared our first kiss in Apocalypse world.  Jack had just performed another puppet show for the kids, we told them an epic tale of a young warrior searching across the galaxy to eventually become a great warrior (Star Wars).

After getting all the little ones to bed, Jack and I just stayed up and talked and that’s when I leaned in and kissed him.  At first I regretted it because he just sat there in shock, but when he kissed me back I threw my regret out the window and just accepted the kiss.  And ever since then, we’ve been a couple.

I felt Jack’s hands cup underneath my chin just as he always placed them whenever we kissed.  I tried to resist but I guess this is what I needed for long.  Ever since his soul got burned out, his kisses didn’t hold the same feeling of love as they had compared to our first kiss.

Wait—what the fuck are you doing (y/n)?! You’re kissing a demon! A bloody demon! I whined and pushed him away from me and I slapped him in the face.

“Never. Kiss me. Again!” I snarled.

“Oh yeah like I haven’t heard that before.” He teased.

“I’m serious. Whatever you think is happening between us, forget it! Now get your stuff for the spell and get out of my sight!”

“As you wish. My sapphire star.” My heart stopped as he actually used the nickname Jack gave me.  I turned back around and saw that he was gone.

“(Y/n)! (Y/n)!” soon running up the stairs was Cas. “I heard you screaming as I got closer to the house, are you alright?”

“Yeah, yeah I’m fine. I’m fine.” He cupped my face before saying.

“Your eyes are bleeding.”

“Oh right I—I had a little reunion with bloody Mary. But I handled it.” It was best not to tell Cas about the demon coming to save me, since I really had no real father figure in my life Cas has kinda filled in that role after getting him to loosen up a bit and hanging around us humans for a while.

“Does anything else hurt?”

“Well I’ve got a splitting headache.”

“Here.” He placed his two fingers to the center of my forehead and I felt this warmth come over me.

“Thanks Cas.”

“No problem. Come on Sam might need us.” I nodded and the two of us headed outside.

After reuniting with my brother and saving a mother and daughter from the killer clown as well as some other ghosts that popped out.  We saw this bright light suddenly rushing across the ground like the tide coming out.

“The spell.” I said.  The ghosts all glared at us and took chase.

“Run! Run get them out of here!” Sam urged us.  I picked up the kid and took off running down the street.  Once we got to across a certain path of the road, the ghosts stopped and psycho clown couldn’t reach us with his knife.  He growled before yelling at us before my brother finally told him to shut up.

“It’s done. They can’t get out now.” I said.

“C’mon we gotta get to the high school.” Sam said as we now walked calmly out of the neighborhood to meet up with Dean and Balthagar.

After getting the mom and daughter to the high school five miles away, I was leaning against the wall of the high school when I felt two familiar hands cover my eyes.

“Guess who?”

“Enough.” I elbowed him in the chest.

“Ow! Hey I thought we had something back in the bathroom?”

“I already told you, you may wear Jack’s body but you aren’t him. You even touch me again, and I’ll let you see firsthand why demons down there probably talk about me.”

“Ohhh, kinky. I look forward to it.” He flirted.  I glared at him and walked away from him.  I came up to my brothers who were looking inside Baby’s trunk.

“Did he just cover your eyes playing the guess who game you and Jack used to do?” asked Dean.

“I don’t want to talk about it.” I told him bluntly.  He looked towards Belphegor and he said.

“Listen, if he tries to flirt with you in anyway talk to us, okay. I—I had a talking to with Cas and he set me right. I should’ve been more understanding of what all this has meant to you (n/n) I’m sorry.”

“It’s alright. All of this really has gone to shit. I mean not just the souls of hell being free but God literally screwing us over. I mean—guys pardon my French but…..we are in some serious horse shit.”

“She’s right. I mean yeah we can keep up the lie for what 1 maybe 2 days before the real FBI shows.” Sam agreed with me.  We already had two encounters with law enforcement we don’t need a third strike.

“Yeah I figured. But right now we need to get you fixed up.” Dean said gesturing to Sam’s shoulder.  Of course stubborn as an ox Sam Winchester refused but with Dean’s persuasion he managed to talk Sam into showing him the bullet wound he telepathically got after shooting God.

It wound itself looked like it was about to close up but when Dean said there was no exit wound, I got a little worried.

“Hey you remember when you were little, and how I used to always distract you? You know when it involved a band-aid or something like that?” Dean asked as he got the rubbing alcohol out and poured it onto a cotton patch.

“Yeah you—used to tell some stupid joke. You even did it for the munchkin there.”

“Don’t go there green giant.” I mocked.

“Knock, knock.” Sam at first turned away like it was a joke. “Come on knock, knock.”

“Who’s—” before he could say there, Dean placed the patch on his bullet wound.

“Still got it.” Dean praised himself with a grin.  I shook my head and I said nervously.

“Hey guys,” they turned towards me and I continued, “So—when Chuck said welcome to the end…..do you think he meant this? I mean by like—ending the entire human race with ghosts, demons, and all that?”

“Baby girl you know as well as I do he’s been playing us the entire time. So screw him.” Dean said.

“I know but….think about it. If one of us dies, that’s it. We’ve been lucky in the past but now that he’s pissed at us. He’s gonna ensure that no one or nothing brings us back. No resurrections this time. I may not look it but—I’m terrified guys.” Sam being the caring brother that he is, wrapped his arms around me in a big bear hug and I continued. “We’re nothing but rats to him. And now that he’s had his fun, he’s gonna ensure that we end up in the pathway with furious cats ready to devour us. While he just sits back and watches us being ripped apart.”

“Yeah nothing but rats in a maze. Sure we could go left, sure we could go right. But we were stuck in the damn maze. It makes you think—what did all of it mean?” Dean said agreeing with me.

“It meant a lot.” Sam answered. “We still saved people, saved you kiddo.” Sam said looking down at me.

“But what for?” I asked.  He stroked down my hair.  “He just throws us one end of the world after another and sits back just to make us do all the hard work.”

“Yeah. That’s what he does. He gets bored and-and-and-and pulls the rip-chord. That’s what he did with Apocalypse world, and probably….. with all of them. He moves on and starts another story. And you know what—good. Because if he bailed it’s just us. For the first time; it’s just us.”

“You forgot the 3 billion ghosts there Sammy.” I said.

“Yeah well what’s one more apocalypse right?” I softly laughed and shook my head. Sam patted my back comfortingly as he separated from me. “But seriously. If we win—when we win this. God’s gone. There’s no one to screw with us, there’s no more maze, it’s just us. Then we’re free.”

“So you, me and (n/n) versus every soul in hell……I like those odds.”

“Yeah. Me too.” The boys looked at me and Dean asked me.

“(N/n)?” I looked at them.  I sighed deeply before saying.

“Well….I guess you know what this means, right boys?” they softly grinned at me and we turned towards Baby’s trunk as Sam said.

“We’ve got work to do.” Before closing it up.

[slippinmickeys]

Of the Eight Winds - Part 5

This is part five in who knows how many from the prompt from @sunflowerseedsandscience : “Mulder is unhappily married when Scully is partnered with him, and while he doesn’t cheat (because sorry that’s not romantic), he falls for her so hard that he finally gets the courage to end the marriage and start fresh.”

Links to parts one, two, three and four.

1

“He left his wife,” she said, apropos of nothing, cutting her sister off mid-rant. Melissa had just walked through the door, carrying a bottle of wine and complaining about the parking in Dana’s neighborhood.

Missy froze where she was, one arm still in her coat.

“You’re kidding,” she said.

“I’m not,” Scully said, trying not to smile and failing.

Missy finished taking off her coat and threw it haphazardly over the back of Scully’s couch, swinging into the seat next to her at the table, her eyes intense.

“Are you sure?” Missy went on, “because they always say they’re going to leave their wife and then they nev-”

“I’m sure,” Scully said, sitting up straighter. “He went to court on Wednesday. I guess it’s been in the works for a while. It’s done.”

Missy sat there with her mouth open like a koi. She put her hand on the neck of the bottle of red wine she’d brought and then looked at it.

“Now I wish I’d brought champagne,” she said, excitement creeping in.

Blackwell chose that moment to jump onto the table. She sauntered over to Scully and gave her gentle head butt. Scully ran her hand over the cat once and then put her back down on the floor.

“What are you going to do?” Missy asked.

“Do?” Scully said, “He literally just got divorced. I’m going to give him some time to heal. I can’t do anything, Missy, the ball is necessarily in his court.”

Missy leaned back in her chair.

“That’s a mistake, Dana,” she said, “what if someone else swoops in?”

Scully smiled, thought of his mid-air confession.

“I’m not worried,” she said.

2

The morning after he walked into her apartment and kissed her, bedded her, started their forever—was awkward.

It was like taking the invisible fence collar off the dog--it still didn’t feel comfortable leaving the yard.

Finally, at 11:00am, he leaned back in his chair, threw the pen he’d been holding onto his desktop, and huffed a sigh.

“Why is this so weird?” he said, sounding perturbed.

Scully, sitting at her own desk across the room, laughed lightly.

“It doesn’t have to be,” she said, gently.

“And yet it is.” Another sigh.

She looked at him sympathetically.

“Up until very recently, what we did last night was… impermissible. Forbidden. It’s bound to take some adjustment,” she said.

He frowned.

“But I feel like we wasted so much time,” he said.

She smiled again, charmed.

“Can I see you tonight?”

Bless him, she thought, he looked nervous.

“I’d like that,” she said.

3

Mulder showed up at her door with flowers. Nervous, looking a little sweaty.

She took the flowers from him, smelled them thoughtfully.

“It’s been a long time since I’ve done this,” he said, when she finally looked up and caught his eye.

She pushed her door all the way open, stepped back so he could enter.

“You…” she started, clueing in to his mindset, “you don’t need to court me, Mulder.”

“Sure I do,” he said, swiping a hand across his upper lip.

“You’ve been wooing me for five years, Mulder,” she said, her heart melting a bit at his nervousness, “an intellectual, platonic wooing, but a wooing nonetheless. You’ve got me.”

He pulled at his collar and she had to stop herself from laughing.

“Let me take you out,” he pleaded.

“Mulder, the last time you walked through that door, you planted a kiss on me that ended in my bedroom. I’m kind of a sure thing.”

“Christ Scully, I have flop sweat,” he said, plowing ahead, “please just me do this.”

Her heart ached for him.

“I’ll get my coat,” she said.

Just before they headed out the door, he pulled a tiny terra cotta pot with a small catnip plant growing out of it from his pocket.

“For Blackwell,” he said.

4

He relaxed over dinner. The bottle of Merlot helped.

They had finished their meal and were waiting for dessert. Scully ran her finger over the top of her wine glass and looked closely at Mulder. She felt emboldened by the alcohol, and the restaurant’s dim light made his eyes dark, brewing with intrigue and a shade of lust.

“You mentioned earlier that you regret all the time we wasted?”

He nodded at her slowly, licked his lips.

“Take me home, Mulder,” she said, “take me to bed.”

He threw a wad of cash onto the table and they were in a cab three minutes later.

XxX

She fell back onto the pillows, out of breath and panting, her throat raw. She’d never been loud during sex, but Mulder’s oral fixation had proved to be her undoing.

He crawled back up her body, gave her a peck on the shoulder.

When she felt like she could talk again, she said, “I will never again complain about sunflower seeds. You can leave the husks wherever you want.”

He huffed a laugh and rolled onto his side lazily, his erection bumping into her hip. He looked at her languidly, he seemed in no hurry. She reached down, her fingers light.

“Shouldn’t we do something about this?” she said coquettishly, grasping him in her hand and giving him a long, slow pull.

His eyelids fluttered closed for a moment and then he smiled, grabbed her hand and pulled it away.

She gave him a puzzled look and he leaned in, kissed her softly but insistently. She could taste herself on his tongue.

He pulled back an inch and said “we’ll get to it.”

He began kissing his way down her body once again, stopping at her breasts to lave at and then suck one nipple into his mouth and then the other. Her back arched off the bed of its own volition.

Then he began working his way lower again until finally he was settled back in between her legs in a very oh-I’m-just-getting-comfortable kind of way.

“Oh,” she said, “listen, I can’t… I’m not one of those women who can... twice.”

Mulder quirked a grin at her.

“But you see, Scully,” he said, lowering his head until he was talking directly into her sex, “you’re the skeptic here. Me?” he paused and ran his tongue slowly and firmly from her perineum all the way up to her clit, “I’m a believer.”

5

Robert Modell had a sister. In the end, they were able to subdue and apprehend her, but she would never forget the raw sound of his voice, nor coming around the corner to the sight of him clutching at Linda Bowman’s body as though it were her.

“I’m going to kill you,” he said when he pulled his gun, and she had never seen a rage as shattering as the one flowing through Mulder when he said it.

After she had fired at and dropped Linda Bowman over Mulder’s shoulder, he had dropped his gun to the floor and wrapped her in an embrace so tight, she feared she might bruise.

It took three weeks for him to let her out of his sight.

6

A freshly-tumbled Mulder was quickly becoming her favorite view. Hair mussed and sticking up, lips swollen from kisses, penis laying thickly down his thigh.

He came in from her bathroom and paused at the foot of her bed to consider her. She looked her fill.

“Let’s move in together,” he said.

“You think the Gunmen will let you move out?” she asked, as he slid under the covers and wrapped an arm around her waist. “Your presence has upped their cool quotient by a factor of ten.”

He smiled.

“I’m sick of hauling clothes back and forth,” he said, snuffling her ear thoughtfully. “We could carpool everyday, or take the Metro. It’ll be good for the environment.”

“Well, when you put it like that,” she said, swatting at him playfully.

“There’s a place I want to show you,” he said, “get dressed.”

He slid back out of the bed and whisked a shirt over his head. She wondered what she’d done to deserve him.

7

In LA, he took her to Griffith Observatory. They were still in their formalwear from the movie premiere. As night set in, they looked out over the city, at the vast sprawl, the lights shimmering in the desert heat. The dark void of the Pacific was miles off to their right.

“What did your mom say about the movie?” he asked her, as they leaned over the railing meant to keep people tumbling down the hillside near the top of the mountain. There was a sign warning people of cougars ten feet away.

“She’s thrilled,” Scully said, shaking her head, “she’s getting a big group of friends to go on opening night. How about yours?”

Mulder laughed.

“She’s mortified. She’s pretending it doesn’t exist.”

“I think I’m going to do the same,” Scully said, and pushed off from the fence, grabbed Mulder’s hand. They began walking back toward the waiting limo. Their driver, Carl, had told them to take their time.

They passed a couple of statues scattered intermittently throughout the landscaping.

“Galileo, Copernicus, James Dean,” Mulder said, listing them off.

“All the greats,” Scully said, shaking her head. She squeezed Mulder’s hand. “I’m hungry,” she said, as they approached the waiting car. Carl had seen them coming and was holding open the door.

“I think anyone in that dress,” Mulder said, and held up his arm to twirl Scully around once, “could probably go for a hot dog.”

“You read my mind,” she said, smiling at him.

They had Carl take them to Pink’s.

8

When Lily was born, Scully wasn’t even sure her labor was real labor, at first. She was a week past her due date, and as far as she knew, was having Braxton-Hicks. By 9:00pm, she knew it was the real thing. Mulder wanted to go to the hospital, but she wanted to be able to eat, so she sent Mulder to bed, thinking it would be best if at least one of them was rested. The contractions were just painful enough that she couldn’t fall asleep.

He was back by her side by 10:00.

“You shouldn’t have to do this alone,” he said.

She smiled up at him, rubbed her stomach. “I’m not,” she said.

By 2:00am he was digging his thumbs into her back while she rested on a yoga ball, her back aching. He would gently ask about every 30 minutes if she was ready to go to the hospital. She would not so gently tell him no.

At 4:00am, she felt a gentle pop and a warm gush. Her water had broken. She told Mulder to make her a sandwich and get the go bag. It was time.

Her contractions, now about five minutes apart, had gotten a lot worse. She had to stop walking to the car twice just to breathe.

It was dark in their neighborhood, quiet. Mulder was doing his best to remain calm, but there was an anxious excitement in his eyes. She looked over at him after a contraction passed, streetlights throwing light on him in waves as they drove down the silent streets, and she felt a rightness to her life.

“Did you picture this,” she said, “that first day you met me in the basement?”

He looked over at her, his eyes crinkled with affection, and put a gentle hand on her hard stomach.

“This?” he said, “Is why they put the ‘B’ in ‘FBI.’”

The sandwich went uneaten. Lily was born three hours later with a throaty complaint and full head of red hair. It was only the second time she had ever seen Mulder cry.

9

The baby was sick, had a fever. They’d all been up for at least 18 hours--it was the middle of the night. Lily wouldn’t stop crying, gut-wrenching wails that raised Scully’s blood pressure. She felt like crying, too. She was pacing the living room with the baby -- she had one lamp on and could see nothing out the window but her own reflection; eyes dull, hair a mess, holey yoga pants with dried spit up down the knee. And Lily would not. Stop. Crying.

Movement in the window and she turned to see Mulder shuffling down the hallway, blinking into the light. He’d gone to bed an hour ago.

“Do you want me to take her?” he asked, and had to repeat himself so she could hear him over the throaty wails of their daughter.

Scully shook her head, tears in her eyes, turned away from him, bouncing the baby, even though it didn’t help. She should let him take over, try to get an hour or two of sleep, but she was exhausted and so close to tears herself and misery loved company, didn’t it? She felt like being a martyr.

“Let me take her,” he said, this time not framing it as a question.

She was a millisecond away from picking a fight, but she handed the baby over instead.

“Is it time for the Tylenol?” he asked, shifting the baby to his other shoulder, and wincing when she screamed in his ear.

“She won’t take it,” Scully mumbled, and then on one piercing shriek, she felt the goosebump-flush of her milk letting down--and liquid began leaking from her breasts, soaking her shirt. She felt a drop slide down her abdomen to soak into the waist of her yoga pants.

“What?” Mulder said.

“SHE WON’T TAKE THE FUCKING TYLENOL!” she screamed, and then broke down in tears.

Mulder gave her one good look and then turned and walked the baby down the hallway and into the nursery.

Scully crumpled to the floor, spent.

The wailing continued from Lily’s bedroom, and she jumped in surprise when she felt a gentle hand come down on her shoulder. When she looked up, Mulder was crouched in front of her, his face one of sympathy.

“She won’t take the medicine?” he asked softly.

Scully sniffed, ran her wrist over her eyes and shook her head.

“I should go in there,” she said, and started to rise, but Mulder pressed her back.

“She’s in the crib, she’ll be okay for a minute or two.” Scully nodded again. “I’ve got her, okay? I’ll try again with the Tylenol. You should go try to sleep.”

Scully looked down at her shirt, twin circles of wet fabric looking back.

“Sleep,” she said doubtfully, shaking her head, wincing.

Mulder ran a hand down her face, his touch light as a feather.

“I’ll bring in some clean bottles so you can pump, okay? Just leave them on the bedside table, I’ll take care of them. I’ve got her, Scully. We’ll be alright.”

Scully felt defeated but tiredly acquiesced, shuffled to their bedroom, whipped off her soaked shirt and threw it towards the dirty laundry. Blackwell looked up from where she’d been asleep next to Mulder’s pillow, lazily watched the arc of the shirt until it hit the edge of the hamper and fell to the floor. The cat yawned, bored.

Mulder came in then with two clean bottles. Lily was still crying down the hall. When he left, he closed the door, and the silence felt loud until she turned on the pump and it wheezed to life beside her.

Six hours later she awoke from a dead sleep to find a peacefully sleeping Mulder on the couch with a peacefully sleeping Lily curled on his chest. On the coffee table sat the liquid Tylenol, two empty bottles of breast milk.

Father and daughter slept deeply, their matching full eyelashes fanned decadently across the tops of their cheeks, both their lips wet and loose in the bright morning sunshine. She touched Lily’s back lightly -- her fever had broken.

10

He was offered answers. Information. The golden ticket he’d always sought. There was a time when she knew he would have pursued it without thought to fallout or consequence, but instead he stepped back.

He chose her.

When she asked him about it, he said “I’ve chosen unhappiness before. Over and over again. I know what lies down that road.”

Two weeks later, they found out she was pregnant with their second child.