#blankets and throws uk

[bargainexpress]

Comfort with UK Blankets and Throws - Bargain Express

Wrap yourself in warmth and style with our exquisite selection of blankets and throws in the UK. Bargain Express brings you a curated range of affordable and luxurious options to elevate your home decor. Whether you're looking for a snuggly fleece throw for chilly evenings or an elegant knitted blanket to adorn your living space, we have it all. Explore our collection today and add a touch of comfort and sophistication to your home. Shop now for unbeatable deals!

[artsyhomesblog]

A kantha quilt made from recycled fabric is a thing of beauty and worth hundreds of dollars.

[lnfours]

half of me, half of you | l.n

summary: welcome to the world, baby norris <3 and welcome back to part 3 of this little universe we have going on here! 🩷 requested by anonymous: ‘Omg part three for forevermore??? Like the wedding and then maybe kids🫣’

warnings: pregnancy, surprises, hormones, lando finding out he’s going to be a girl dad 🥹, a whole lot of fluff n stuff

masterlist | ask box

₊‧°𐐪♡𐑂°‧₊

“how much longer?” you asked, sitting on the closed lid of the toilet in the bathroom. the brunette girl swiped down on her phone, displaying the timer she had set almost 2 minutes ago.

“30 seconds..” she trailed off, eyes meeting your nervous figure as you bounced your leg up and down. you sent her a soft smile back, beating yourself up for not taking a test sooner.

the past week you had felt terrible. felt like someone had hit you with a bus, thrown it in reverse and then backed up over you. your emotions were all over the place, you couldn’t keep anything down, and suddenly you were craving things you didn’t even like.

your suspicions had brought you to lily, your best friend. alex’s girlfriend, the girl you could rely on for anything.

the alarm of the timer echoed throughout the hotel bathroom. you jumped, eyes quickly moving to the box where the lily had shoved in the little white stick.

you felt like you were going to throw up again because of how the nerves were shaking through your body, “can you…?”

“you don’t wanna read it?”

you shook your head fast, “no, i’m scared,”

she frowned softly, kneeling in front of you, “whatever happens, whatever you decide, i love you and i’m here for you.”

you nodded, letting her hand you the box, “what if he doesn’t feel the same? what if he’s not on the same page? i mean we haven’t even really talked about kids yet, i-“

lily was quick to calm your rambling, coaching you to just breathe for a second. you nodded at her, following her direction as you sucked in a shaky breath.

“for as long as i’ve known lando, he’s always talked about wanting kids,” she said, “and it’s no secret that he wants them with you. he wouldn’t have put that ring on your finger otherwise.”

you smiled softly down at the ring on your left hand, letting out a shaky, “you’re right,”

“usually am,” she smiled back at you as you both let out a laugh, “you ready?”

you nodded again, opening the box and fishing out the little white stick that was about to change your whole life. you flipped it over, turned it the right way around and read it over and over again.

it was positive. you were pregnant.

your silence was an answer in itself for lily as she smiled, cheering and hugging you as you let some of the tears fall down your cheeks and splash onto the marbled tile beneath you.

she had tears in her eyes as well, “you’re gonna be a mom!”

you smiled, letting out a soft laugh in disbelief, “i’m gonna be a mom,”

“the best one out there,” she smiled, pulling you up for a proper hug, “oh i’m so happy for you.”

you laughed again, thankful to have her in your life before you pulled away. you wiped the tears off your cheeks, “guess i should call my ob,” you said and she nodded quickly, “and figure out how i’m going to tell lando.”

lily hummed, “i’m sure you’ll think of something special.”

and you did. you were fiddling with the ring on your left finger, dressed in a black slip dress you had brought with you to the uk. silverstone was the best place on earth, his home race, where his friends were, his family.

and where you were about to tell him he was going to be a dad.

you had given lily the ‘ok’ to tell alex so that you had two people to make sure he would get to the surprise. they both didn’t waste any time, making it their top priority to get lando and bring him back to where you needed him as soon as possible.

you were seated on the blanket in the grass, looking up when you heard footsteps making their way to you. you looked up, the boy dressed in black with his signature white mclaren backwards cap catching your eye.

“hey,” he smiled, letting out a puff of air and looking around at the blanket you had set up, “alex and lily said you had something planned?”

you nodded, “come sit,”

he joined you on the blanket, careful not to knock over the gift box sitting in the middle. you smiled over at him, sensing his nerves.

“what’s up, love?”

you tilted your head towards the white box with a pretty bow on the top, “open it,”

he raised an eyebrow at you, “is something going to pop out at me?”

you laughed, “no! just open it,”

he sighed, complying as he kept it at a safe distance while he took the lid off. once the coast was clear, he reached his hand inside. he felt the plastic stick in his hand and what felt like a photo. he fished them out, eyes landing on the pregnancy test and the picture of the ultrasound you had to confirm that you were pregnant.

he gasped softly, immediately looking over at you before his eyes traveled down to your belly.

“baby,” he started, licking his lips as he sniffled softly, “are you being serious right now?”

you smiled, “deadly.”

he dropped the things back in the box, moving to carefully pull you in the tightest hug he could get you in, “i’m gonna be a dad.”

you nodded, pulling back and wiping under your eyes with the back of your hands, “yeah,”

“and you’re gonna be a mom,” he was really stating the obvious but it brought more tears to your eyes when he spoke, “you’re gonna be the best mom, baby.”

you kissed his cheek softly, “and you’re going to be the best dad.”

he smiled, pulling you closer as he pressed a soft kiss to your lips, “i love you.”

“i love you.”

₊‧°𐐪♡𐑂°‧₊

the months moved on and baby girl norris had finally entered the world, and lord did she have lando wrapped around her little finger already.

from the moment the two met, the nurses handing the little pink blanket over to him, it was game over. her big eyes, which resembled yours, looking straight up at him and her happy gurgles had his heart exploding as he looked down at his baby girl.

“hi, angel,” he cooed, fingers softly brushing against her skin over the tiny little moles and freckles that littered her skin, “oh, you’re perfect.”

you smiled over at your now husband, watching the two interact, “she is,”

he looked up at you, “and so are you, baby,”

you smiled at him, pressing a kiss to his shoulder as he sat next to you with the little girl in his arms. she was starting to struggle to stay awake, barely keeping her eyes open.

the two of you watched in contentment, his eyes a little watery before he looked back over at you, “we made that,”

you let out a soft chuckle, “we did a good job, yeah?”

he laughed with you, pressing a kiss to your temple, “we did,” he said, “i think you did all the heavy lifting, though. i was just here for the ride,”

you laughed, meeting his eyes, “mm, true,”

he smiled back with that same boyish grin to you, releasing a soft breath, “guess we should probably name her, huh?”

you hummed, “still like the one we had picked?”

he looked down now at the little girl in his arms who now had her eyes closed, sometime during your conversation she had fallen asleep. she was so peaceful and perfect and everything he loved about you wrapped up into one tiny little human. a tiny little human he got to create with you, the other half of his beating heart.

“i do, yeah,” he nodded, “welcome to the world wren norris.”

₊‧°𐐪♡𐑂°‧₊

you made your way up the stairs, a smile spreading on your face as you heard the little girls’ giggle coming from her bedroom. you leaned up against the door way, trying hard not to snicker at your husband who had found himself joining your daughter and her stuffed animals for a tea party.

you watched the two talk about tea and serve them to the dolls and stuffed animals sitting in their respective chairs for a couple minutes before you walked into the room.

“hey, baby,” lando said when you knelt down next to him, giving you the biggest smile, “joining us for some tea?”

“for a bit sure,” you smiled, “everyone will be here soon.”

“oh, mommy, look!” wren said excitedly, “daddy and i drew a picture for you.”

“oh, yeah?” you asked, watching the girl grab the piece of paper, “what is it?”

“we drew daddy’s race car!” she smiled brightly back at you.

you took the piece of paper, noticing the three other stick-figure men in the picture, another one in orange, one in blue and one in red.

“and you drew uncle carlos, oscar and danny?”

she nodded, “it was daddy’s idea.”

you laughed softly at your grinning husband, rolling your eyes playfully, “of course it was.”

you spent some time with you little family, letting them tell you all about their afternoon tea session with mr bear, kitty and mrs froggie, all the stuffed animals sitting in their respective seats.

you grabbed lando’s arm softly, pulling it towards you to read the time on his watch, “we gotta get you ready, wren. everyone’s gonna be here soon!”

she smiled, “can i still wear my princess dress?”

“of course, love,” you smiled. she happily jumped from her seat and ran off to her closet. you looked over at your husband, a smile still on both of your faces.

while you helped change wren into her princess dress, lando had started greeting those who had come to help celebrate your daughter’s third birthday.

it wasn’t long until the little girl left your side, immediately running over to her favorite uncle, “uncle max!”

you smiled when he bent down, picking her up and she squealed happily, “there’s the birthday girl!”

he tickled her sides playfully, her laughter booming as you joined your husband, his arm wrapping around your waist.

“did you get a pony this year?” he asked and you both snickered as wren shook her head.

“mommy said no,” she said, “but she said i could get a puppy!”

“a puppy?!”

you looked over at lando, “i said maybe,”

lando shrugged, “i know you’ll crack.”

“oh she has you wrapped around her finger, mate,” max laughed, looking back at the little girl he was holding, “don’t ya little one?”

“easy, fewtrell,” you laughed, “don’t give her ideas.”

he laughed softly, the little girl going back to her dad to say hi to her uncle alex and aunt lily, leaving you and max standing in the kitchen. he pulled you into his side, giving you a squeeze, “how’re you? i mean, other than enjoying being a mom.”

you laughed, “i’m good,” you let out of a soft breath, “where’s p?”

“she wasn’t feeling well, but she told me to say hi to everyone.”

you frowned, “damn, tell her i said hi and that i hope she feels better.”

he nodded, “i will,”

you both trailed off as you watched lando and alex playfully chase wren, trying to see who could pick her up first, “so, a puppy, huh?”

you rolled your eyes, “it was all him! not me,”

he laughed, “sounds about right, he’d do anything for that little girl.”

you smiled, watching your husband and daughter laugh as alex and lily talked with the birthday girl, asking her questions that made her giggle in response, “he would, and i wouldn’t want it any other way.”

[mayakern]

upcoming store stuff & why we're doing a super sale

omg hiiii it's devin again, and this time i'm bringing store news

the short version: we're moving ourselves back to minnesota, and we're moving order fulfillment to a fulfillment center

wow, that's big news! maya and i are so so so excited to be closer to our minnesota friends (and also my family lol). i'm hoping to be back in northeast minneapolis, but let's be real we're probably gonna get priced out and into the suburbs

in addition to that, due to a variety of reasons i'll explain in more detail below, we're transitioning from in-house fulfillment to working with a fulfillment center (or 3pl, short for third-party logistics). we're at an awkward size that makes staffing difficult and have had issues with extended processing time. the 3pl should be set up by september, and we're working on the back end to have fulfillment centers in australia, canada, the UK, and eventually the EU. if tax authorities work with us we should have all that ready by december 2024!

to prepare for that we're doing a super sale. ash told me not to call it liquidation but she said that like 30 seconds after i hit send on the marketing email, sorry about that. items that we don't want to pay to move to the 3pl are discounted by 25-70%, with some of them priced at cost. under no circumstances will anything ever be 70% off again

if you're nosy you can read the q&a i made up in my head while eating pigs in a blanket:

how are the labor protections at the 3pl?

pretty good! we were shocked to find anything even halfway decent in the US; we went looking for a fulfillment center in the EU to handle all international fulfillment, and the one we found just so happened to have bought a US location two years ago.

they're located in ohio, pay $19/hr, and provide health insurance and 401k matching. that seemed too good to be true so we dug through employee reviews on places like glassdoor, and while there were some bad reviews those were all dated prior to when the facility was purchased by this new company. they also have a very low turnover rate which is a HUGE green flag

why are you transferring to a 3pl?

the serious

sometimes we have a high volume of sales, and it makes sense to have two full-time employees plus a part timer! but usually we have a low-to-medium volume of sales. we can float by on that, but it gets risky, and the economy is in a bad enough state that we're concerned about the longevity

related, the 2023 holiday sale showed us some major flaws in our fulfillment process. if the same issues were to happen this year the business probably wouldn't survive

we're moving cross-country in early 2025 and would've had to close this location anyway

the dumb:

i'm sick of dealing with commercial landlords and if i have one more wall leak i'm going to throw it into the river brick by brick

what about your staff?

unfortunately we will have to say goodbye to our office staff. they have been given 3.5 months notice and no-questions-asked PTO for interviews with a small severance

why are you moving back to minnesota?

troy was always meant to be a temporary move. initially the plan was to move to vermont or massachusetts, but after being out here for 7 years we just kinda want to go home. the weather in troy is perfect for us, we love the mountains, and we have some great friends here, but for some goddamn reason we want our eyelashes to freeze together.

will you be returning to midwest cons?

if we return to cons at all it will be with ariel and/or ash running the booth, maya will not be involved. this would likely be in california and/or in the northeast US.

my friends are begging me to go to CONvergence as an attendee so ig you might see me there? maya has pledged death before crowded venues tho

will you do any local events in minnesota?

we might do sample sales. honestly idk what we're gonna do with the samples we have in troy, most of them are terrible. do you want samples of the strangest low rise bell bottom pants ever created? please take them from me. my bush hangs out

also my kid brother has gotten really into library events and if he asks nice enough we might do some of those

is there anything else?

i mean probably, but i started this last week and i haven't had any other ideas on what to include

[disneyprincemuke]

you make everyday feel like it's christmas

alternatively: logan is weirdly great at giving presents

in which logan surprises her in the morning with a throughtful second present

(series masterlist)

"merry christmas," is the first thing she hears when she opens her eyes. completely blinded by the sun shining into the bedroom oscar had prepared for them, she closes them immediately and turns to nuzzle her face into logan's bare arm.

"merry christmas," she manages to say, wrapping her arms around logan's arm. "good morning."

"are you awake?"

"yeah, i'm answering you."

"you wished me merry christmas an hour ago while you were asleep," logan grins, turning his body to throw his arms and legs around her body. "i bet you don't even remember that happening."

"you're right, actually. i'm sorry. i think the eggnog really got to me," she sighs, moving her face away from logan's shoulder. she lifts her head and grins, slowly opening her eyes. "good morning, my love."

"good morning!" he beams, leaning down to press a kiss on the tip of her nose. "when you're ready, i've got a present for you."

her eyes widen, lips quickly spreading into the biggest smile. "a present? i thought we already exchanged presents last night? oh, the eggnogs were pretty strong, i guess. i didn't even realise."

"we did." he picks at her hair slowly, pushing it behind her ear as he massages her head softly. "i've got another one for you. i was supposed to get you one gift-"

"yes, like we agreed on last christmas."

"yes," logan nods firmly, "like we agreed on. but, i really had to get you another one. you'll love it."

"babe, you say that every year," she whines, hands chasing for him as he tries to untangle himself from her grasp. "i do always end up loving it, sure, but we agreed no surprise gifts this year!"

"i do like spoiling you," logan answers simply, hunched over in the corner of the guest bedroom while he digs into his suitcase. "i would have given it to you last night, but oscar never would have let me live it down."

"logan, if you actually bit into my joke of giving me nude pictures in polaroid form, i might just book a flight back to the uk early."

"no, it's not that!" logan gasps, furrowing his eyebrows. "it's christmas - not your birthday!"

"logan!"

"okay, shut up," logan giggles, jogging back over to the bed with his hands behind his back. he hops onto the middle of the bed, sitting on his feet as he knelt in front of her.

she sits up slightly, pulling the blankets over her shoulder. "okay, what is it?"

"i've had it stored in my closet forever," he giggles, shuddering ever so slightly as he contains his excitement. "by forever, i mean since december started."

"how? i put clothes in your closet."

"my shoe box."

"your shoe box?"

"yeah, you don't really touch my shoe box often," logan stares at her blankly, hands still behind his back to keep the present from her prying eyes. "right. anyway."

"okay," she smiles, eyes glistening in curiosity. "anyway?"

"right. so you scored your first podium in formula 1 this year, right? in singapore and you were up there with carlos and lando and everything," logan grins, recounting the exciting weekend as if it had happened to him personally. "it took me a lot of convincing seb and your principal to get this."

"i don't suppose you have an entire tyre behind your back, do you?" she laughs, throwing her head back.

"no," logan says monotonously, tilting his head. "but you're close."

"what?"

"i," logan cuts himself off, rolling his eyes sheepishly and giggling softly. "it's kinda stupid. seb had to convince your team principal to let me have these, and i had to make a powerpoint - it was a whole thing."

"mind getting me where your mind's at, babe?" she smiles slightly, a hand reaching out to rub his arm for comfort.

"it's a little silly," he waves her concerns off with a lopsided grin on his face. he moves his arms to rest on his thighs, presenting her with a small box. "it's a lucky charm bracelet."

"a bracelet?"

"yeah. of every single time you made history this year," logan grins, slowly handing her the box. "basically, seb and i begged your team for a teenie-tiny amount of tyre residue after you'd cross the line. then ciara and i found someone to preserve them and carve them into the track layout."

she opens the box, and logan did not lie. a silver bracelet sits in the black velvet box, charms hanging off in the shape of tracks like australia and singapore. "oh?"

"and then we can add more every single time you change history in the sport," logan smiles sweetly, craning his neck to stare at his gift with her. "do you like it?"

"like it?" she coos, slowly taking the bracelet into her hands. it feels so delicate, almost like she doesn't even want to wear it in fear of potentially losing or damaging it beyond repair. "logan, this is the most thoughtful gift anyone's ever gotten me. i love it."

"seriously? i thought it was a bit corny," logan presses his lips together as his cheeks turn a deep shade of red. "and kinda gross - it's tire residue mixed with gravel and heat and- well, you know."

"logan, i love it," she smiles, tracing the charms with her nail. "this is so sweet. suddenly, the custom shoes i'd gotten you didn't seem so special and thoughtful. thank you so much. i wish i could get you something as significant as this."

he frowns, squeezing her cheeks. "i got you this because you deserve it. thank you for letting me be a part of everything you're changing with the sport."

"thank you, seriously. i love you," she cries, frowning when logan takes it from her hands. she tears up as logan fastens it around her wrist gently, adjusting it for her. "i'm scared. what if this gets lost?"

"blythe thought you might say that." he wipes her tear-stained cheek as he presses a kiss to her forehead. "i've got an extra of the entire thing back in the uk. so, don't even worry about it."

she blinks blankly, looking up at him before glancing down at her wrist once more. she looks back up at him. "this is the sweetest thing anyone's ever done for me."

"what can i say? you deserve the best," logan shrugs, dimples showing before his smile. "the world, even. i love you."

she wraps an arm around the back of his neck, pulling him down to her as she catches his lips into hers. she sighs against his lips, slowly dropping herself back into bed while pulling logan down with her. he has a hand on her back, supporting her weight while she lowers, inching up to adjust to where her lips are.

"we don't have to be ready for brunch for another," she pulls away, reaching over to the bedside table to tap on her phone, "30 minutes. stay in bed a while?"

taglist: @myxticmoon

[moody-alcoholic]

Bonfire Night

Summary: Ghoap x f!reader established relationship, WC: 6k. All sorts of fireworks going off tonight ;) This is purely self-indulgent, bonfire night shenanigans.

CW: +18 content MDNI. Fireworks, PTSD, mentions of bombs, mentions of injures, description of injures, hurt/comfort, sex, fingering, PiV sex, shower sex, oral (M&F receiving), threesome, overuse of the word cock, reader can’t cook, not proof read/first draft.

AN: This one really got away from me so yeah...

Resources: Help for Heroes Combat Stress

The Missing Piece - Masterlist AO3 Stay safe and enjoy <3

“So what are we doing tomorrow?” You ask sitting down on the sofa between Simon and Johnny. They look confused, you look up at Johnny who’s eyes dart to Simon. 

“Tomorrow is..?”

“Bonfire night,” you say, frowning at them. Johnny smiles.

“I don’t think I’ve ever been in the UK for bonfire night.” He says. 

“Not even as a kid?” 

“Scottish.” He says as a matter of fact, pointing at himself.

“King James was Scottish.” You tease, leaning back. 

“What do you want to do?” Simon asks.

“I don’t know, when I was a kid it was hot-dogs and jacket potatoes while watching fireworks in the garden.” 

“One year instead of burning a Guy Fawkes effigy's me and Chloe made stick figures of our exes and burned them.”  

“Then did you dance around the fire and chant curses?” Johnny teases. You kick him and he grabs your feet pulling your legs onto his thighs. 

“Well we’ll probably be able to see plenty of fireworks from the balcony.” Simon says.

“Or we can see if there are any bonfires nearby?” Johnny asks. You lean against Simon as he wraps his arm round you. 

“A nice night in sounds good, I’m not working. I don’t mind cooking.” You offer. 

“Hot-dogs and jacket potatoes?” Johnny asks raising an eyebrow. 

“With so many caramelised onions you’ll have a heart attack.” You say smiling. 

“Sounds like fun.” Johnny says stroking your leg. You hum smiling at him leaning against Simon’s chest as you turn your head to watch the TV. 

—----------—

You’re cooking for the first time in what feels like forever. It’s simple food, jacket potatoes and hot-dogs. The potato part is easy, stab them, wrap them and chuck them in the oven. For some reason though the caramelised onions are kicking your ass.

“I can help if you want?” Johnny asks from the table. You look up at him over the second pot you’ve used today. The other one is soaking in the sink with a layer of burnt onions in the bottom.

“I’m fine. I know what I’m doing.” You huff, looking back down at the onions as you put more butter in the pan. You hear Johnny chuckle as Simon comes into the doorway of the kitchen. 

“Need a hand?” He asks, you look over at him frowning. 

“I said I could do it.” You snap, he holds his hands up going down the step and over to Johnny. 

“Quick Si, she might throw a plate at you or something.” Johnny teases. Simon goes behind him wrapping his arms around his chest as Johnny tips his head. You frown at them, digging your eyes into Johnny. He just smiles, the cheeky grin he always has on his face. For some reason it irritates you and you pick up your glass of wine taking a sip.

“Why don’t you both go and watch the fireworks until I’ve finished.” You say trying to hide the irritation in your voice. You can tell from Johnny’s giggle you’re not doing well. Simon nods though patting Johnny on the shoulder before turning to head for the balcony door. 

“Good idea, c’mon Johnny.” Simon says opening the door. Johnny smiles following him out. The sky is being lit up with all different colours as fireworks explode over London. In the distance larger public displays dominate the skyline. 

Simon leads Johnny over to the outdoor sofa as he picks up one of the blankets and throws it over them both. Johnny leans against Simon his eyes fixed on the sky, Simon hums leaning back throwing his arm over Johnny’s shoulder.

There is no break in the pops and bangs across the sky, the smell of gunpowder is strong in the air, Simon can see other people watching from balcony's. Some of the explosions are louder then others sounding like they’re exploding right above them as shades of red light up the area. 

A particularly loud set of large fireworks go off just on the other side of the Thames. Simon watches them in awe.

“Did you see that Johnny?” Simon asks nudging him, Johnny’s head turns slightly but he doesn’t say anything. No chipper remark or witty comeback.

“Johnny?” Simon looks over at him his eyes wide, his body stiff, his knuckles white as he grips the blanket. 

“Soap?” Simon calls in a slightly harsher tone. Johnny’s head flicks to look at him almost instantly. 

“Fireworks are just colourful bombs ya know.” He says, Simon can see the distant look in his eyes. He straightens up picking Johnny’s hand up. 

“They call gunpowder lift powder in fireworks factories.” He continues, there’s a shakiness in his voice. Simon smiles squeezing his hand.

“Yeah? What else Johnny?” Simon encourages him, turning in so he can pull him further up his chest. 

“Well I learnt that from a guy I trained with. He used to work in a fireworks factory before joining the army.”  

“Pretty bombs huh.” Simon says squeezing his hand again looking out as more fireworks pop across the sky. 

“Yeah, not very convenient as bombs though. I mean could you imagine selling anything that powerful to civilians.” Johnny chuckles.

“Yeah, it would be chaos.” Simon replies. Fireworks explode closer to the apartment building, each one makes Johnny tense. 

“‘Member that training exercise we did once. The one where they filled the fake bombs with smoke?” Simon says pulling Johnny’s hand to his lips and kissing it.

“Yeah, I always forget how much that shite stings your eyes.” Johnny smiles looking over at Simon. 

“Remember Gaz, dropping his gas mask and having to drag him out?” 

“I remember him throwing his guts up.” Johnny chuckles, Simon smiles. Another explosion very close by. Simon watches Johnny's smile fade and his eyes widen. His grip on Simon’s hand tightens. 

“C’mon let’s go inside.” Simon says brushing his hand with his thumb. Johnny sighs.

“I’m fine.” He insists. Simon kisses his hand again.

“Give me another fact.” Simon says smiling.

“Did you know fireworks where created by accident?” Johnny says turning to look out the balcony. He scoots closer to Simon who can feel Johnny's heart pounding in his chest. 

“Oh yeah?” Simon says pulling him closer and kissing him on the top of his head. He watches as colourful explosions fill the sky.  

Smoke is swirling in the air like a thick fog. Simon hears some kids shouting, screaming as the sound of rockets shoot through the air. He cranes his head over the balcony to watch them dodging rockets they’re shooting at each other. He lets out a sigh leaning back as Johnny strokes his hand.

The door opens and you step out. 

“Hey, foods ready.” You say watching as Johnny shoots up throwing his arm round you as you take him to the kitchen. 

“Smells good lass, so you won the fight with the onions?” He says looking at all the toppings you have laid out. In the kitchen, with the cooked potatoes and hot-dogs in buns.

Johnny takes his time to complement everything you’ve made ignoring the mess you’ve created in the kitchen. You promise him you’ll clean it up later. He nudges you telling you not to bother. 

You all sit on the sofa, watching TV while you eat. It’s a Saturday night which means the TV is dominated with game shows and talent shows which Johnny and Simon spend no time giving their opinions on. 

You’re tired from all the cooking and after you finish your food you curl up on the sofa with your head in Simon’s lap while Johnny is sat on the floor between Simon's legs rubbing his belly. He must have eaten at least 4 jacket potatoes, mounted with cheese and beans. 

“That was amazing.” Johnny says reaching over for his beer. Simon chuckles his hand running down your back. It’s nice, your belly is full and you're feeling sleeping, looking out the windows to see the different colours still lighting up the sky.

“It was very lovely.” Simon says. You turn so you’re laid on your back your head resting on his thigh. He looks down smiling at you as one of his hands comes up to stroke your hair. You hum as his fingers massage your scalp.

“Thank you, I’m glad I finally won the fight with the onions.” You say. Simon chuckles looking down at you, his eyes glaze over, there’s a twinkle there though and you smile back at him. It’s nice his other hand coming up to map out your face, his thumb brushing over your lips. It makes a burn rise in your core. You did a good job and you made them happy, that makes you happy. 

“You did good.” Simon smiles looking down at you. You close your eyes humming as Simon’s hand lazily travels down your body to your waist. His thumb dips below your waistband. His hands are warm, making goosebumps rise on your soft skin.

You turn your head back to the TV while Johnny tips his head back leaning against the sofa. Simon’s free hand runs through Johnny’s hair, running his fingers up and down his mohawk. You listen to

Johnny talk about what's happening on the TV, a talent show or something. Simon’s hand runs across your stomach, up to your chest, his fingers brushing over your nipples, the feeling is jarring it makes you gasp and your head looks up at him. He smiles looking back down at you. 

His eyes still have that cheeky glint. Your breathing picks up he doesn’t stop, pinching them between his thumb and finger. You try not to squirm, you don’t want Johnny to feel left out, at least it feels like he doesn’t care for right now.

You swallow hard, your body warm and relaxed his hand working it’s way down from your breast back to your waist. Your hand stops him and you shake your head. He looks at you confused as you tip your head towards Johnny.

Simon laughs and it makes Johnny turn round, your head snaps at him your mouth hanging open your cheeks flushed red with Simon’s hand halfway in your pants. Johnny takes in the scene smiling before leaning forward and pressing his lips onto yours. 

You close your eyes letting him play with your tongue, you can taste the salt on his lips. You’re enjoying this, Simon’s hand works down into your PJ bottoms his fingers pushing through your folds to press against your clit. It makes you moan into Johnny’s mouth. He pulls away getting up onto his knees. 

“Christ, Si you desperate or something?” He says moving from between Simon’s legs to the end of the sofa. You’re not sure what he want’s to do but he looks at Simon and they do that thing where it’s like they’re mentally communicating. Simon shuffles and you sit up his hand leaving your pants you suddenly feel empty. Johnny giggles hooking his hands under your knees and pulling you to the edge of the sofa. 

“Johnny you were full.” You say but honestly you don’t really care, you just want to feel someone's hands on you. Johnny seems to understand gripping the waistband of your bottoms pulling them off with your underwear in on quick action. 

Now you’re definitely sure you know what he wants. You spread your legs for him, Simon turns to face you gripping the hem of your shirt and you raise your arms letting him pull your shirt off. You let them move around your body as Johnny buries his head between your thighs and Simon locks his lips onto a nipple.

All of a sudden your whole body is tingling, goosebumps rising all over your skin as your hand lands on Simon’s head. It’s like their working in sync, each lick of their tongues making you moan. 

You can’t tell which feels better and you don’t care, it all feels good. “Is this your way of saying thank you?” You ask, your breathing picking up. Simon pulls off your nipple chucking, he hums moving his mouth to your lips. His hand coming up to cup your breast. The kiss becoming sloppy as you try to focus on one thing at a time, as your breathing turns into panting. 

Johnny’s speed increases. Simon looks down at him running his hand through his mohawk. His eyes look up but his mouth doesn’t move, his shiny blue eyes, he’s moaning on you sending vibrations though your core.

“Good boy Johnny, you gonna make her feel good?” Simon says his voice low humming in his throat as he grips Johnny’s hair keeping him in place. The frantic sucking and licking you’d been enjoying stops.

Johnny nods and Simon loosens his grip on his hair and he goes back to running his tongue over your clit. It’s deep and long strokes, you don’t even realise Simon has gone back to your nipples until he nibbles on them making you gasp. 

You’re getting close your hand gripping Simon’s hair again. “Johnny.” You cry, your legs squeezing round his head. Johnny chuckles, the vibrations push you over the edge. You cry out cumming as Simon and Johnny ride you through the orgasm, there mouths not leaving you until you chuckle letting go of Simon’s hair as you try to normalise your breathing. 

“Holy crap.” You breathe as Simon and Johnny pull off of you. They look up at you smiling. “Definitely a good way to say thank you.”

“Any excuse for Johnny give you a good time.” Simon says laying back on the sofa next to you. You look over at him palming his cock bulging in his pants. You smile at him pulling your legs onto the sofa, you get on your hands and knees crawling over to Simon.

He can tell what you want as he leans back further on the sofa letting you reach down into his sweat pants pulling him out. You hear Johnny sigh as he runs his hand up your thighs. You smile at Simon pressing your thumb over the tip of his cock, he’s already wet with precum as you bring your lips down letting your tongue circle round the head before thrusting your mouth down.

You feel Johnny stand up but he keeps his hands on you. Then he climbs on the sofa behind you. His hand running down your hips squeezing your ass his thumbs spreading you apart. 

You’re too busy preoccupied with Simon not paying attention to Johnny, just enjoying the feel of his hands on your body. The next thing you know his cock is pressed against your entrance. You’re moaning around Simon’s cock, forcing yourself to take him all the way with each thrust.

Johnny presses into you and you pull your mouth off Simon moaning as you feel Johnny stretching you out. You tip your head letting your hand pleasure Simon, you look up at him as Johnny lets out a moan before thrusting himself all the way into you. 

“Christ Johnny,” you breathe as his hands grip your waist bouncing you on his cock. Simon’s hand reaches down to your clit which makes you clench around Johnny. Your mouth waters as you replace your hand on Simon with your mouth again. 

He hums, his fingers knocking against your clit with each buck of your hips. You’re focusing on Simon, taking him all the way, or at least as far as you can. He doesn’t seem to mind though his moans sending shivers down your spine. 

You’re propped up on one arm with the other hand wrapped round the base of Simon’s cock. Johnny’s breathing picks up and his moans become more frequent, his hips drive into you harder his cock rubbing past your g-spot with each thrust. It makes you speed up your strokes on Simon, pressing your thumb into the underside of his shaft.

“Easy Johnny.” Simon says his free hand resting on the back of your head forcing you to slow down.

“Sorry Si, she feels so good.” He grunts, his hands moving up from your hips to your back. He runs his hands to your shoulders squeezing them before speeding his pace up again. You moan round Simon’s cock which causes him to squeeze your hair again, letting out a moan as his head tips back. 

You’re going to cum, Simon's fingers on your clit and Johnny’s relentless pounding is too much. You clench round Johnny as he slows his thrusts, almost pulling all the way out before pressing back into you.

“You gonna cum love?” Johnny asks between breaths. Simon pushes your head all the way down on his cock and you gag your mouth filling with saliva. 

“Mm-humm,” you moan as Simon lets go of your hair, giving you full control to move your head how you want. You’re chasing your own orgasm as Simon’s fingers press faster on your clit. You’re not going to last longer. You clench round Johnny thrusting your mouth all the way down choking on Simon as you cum.

“Christ love-” Johnny cums too, Simon’s speed on your clit doesn’t slow as Johnny throbs inside you. His hands running up and down your back as you shiver. You pull your mouth off Simon looking up at him smiling. 

As Johnny pulls out you sit back on your knees as he wraps his arms round you squeezing you. You watch as Simon strokes himself and you break away from Johnny straddling over Simon. You reach down gripping his cock and guiding it into you.

Simon sighs his eyes glazing over, as you bounce on his his hands coming down to squeeze your ass. You lean forward pressing your forehead against his looking into his eyes. He lets you control the speed as you take it slower. Then your phone starts ringing. You look over at Johnny who picks it up. You groan when you see the name Amy on the screen. Its work. You sigh looking over at Simon.

“Need to take it?” He asks. 

“It’s work, they probably want me to come in.” You sigh dropping your head and stopping your movement. Now you’re just sat there with his cock inside you. The call ends and you wait a few seconds before it rings again immediately. 

“Crap.” You say letting frustration slip though. 

“I thought you weren't on call.” Johnny asks as he hands you your phone 

“I’m not but it’s A&E on bonfire night, and it’s the weekend.”

“Hey Amy.” You say answering it. Simon smiles at you, there’s a twinkle in his eye as he hums gripping your hips. 

“Hey, can you come in and help, we’re 4 short.” She says, you sigh but Simon starts thrusting his hips in you causes your words to catch in your throat. Johnny chuckles, his hands landing on your shoulders squeezing them.

“I’m kind of in the middle of something, is there no one else?” You ask, as Johnny’s hands work their way round to your nipples.

“I’ve tried everyone, most people have hit their overtime already.” She explains you can hear the desperation in her voice. You have to bite down on your lip to stop yourself from crying out. You pull the phone a way from your ear pressing it against your chest. 

“Simon-” you say quietly, he shushes you pressing a finger up to your lips. It feels good you can’t focus on the call tipping you head back and letting out a moan as Simon drives into you harder. Johnny's still playing with your nipples as one of Simon’s hands moves to your abdomen his thumb pressing on your clit.

You almost forget about the call, maybe this is their plan to fuck you so good you can’t work. You snap back to reality bringing the phone back up to your ear. 

“What time?” You ask her hoping she can’t hear the slur in your voice and the wet sounds of sex echoing through the flat.

“Now, until 8am?” She says, you hear another phone ringing in the back ground, and an alarm. You’re too blissed out to care.

“I’ll come,” you breathe down the phone clenching round Simon to stop yourself from actually coming.

“Thank you so much, you’re amazing honestly, we could really use your expertise-” You hum hanging the phone up and throwing it on the sofa as you fall back against Johnny who holds you while you cum, Simon throbs inside you. His fingers pressing into your skin.

“You going to work?” Johnny asks. You nod enjoying the feeling of his hands on you as you come down from the high. You open your eyes looking at Simon who pulls you against his chest kissing your neck. You hum enjoying the feeling before sighing and sitting up. 

“I’m sorry, It’s going to be 12 hours of blast and burn injures. They really could use my help.” You step up off Simon's lap, you can feel their cum dripping down your inner thighs as you walk over to the bathroom to clean yourself up. You really wish you didn’t have to go to work, maybe you could said you were drunk or something. You leave the bathroom heading into the bedroom as Johnny follows you in. 

“How long will you be gone for?” 

“Hopefully I can get off as early as possible. 12 hours max.” You sigh pulling on some underwear and a bra.

“Okay, let me drive you at least?” Simon says coming over to the bedroom as you pull your uniform on. You nod.

—----------—

You let out a sigh as you walk through the front door, the sun is up now turning the sky pink and red. You need a shower you’ve spent way too much time covered in blood and burnt flesh for a lifetime.

It almost reminded you of some of the hospitals you’ve worked at in war zones, people waking around with limbs barely hanging on. The burns are the worst, you can deal with the blood but the smell of burning flesh and muscle is something you think you’ll never quite get used to.

“Hey.” Simon calls behind you as you’re emptying your pockets. You pulled an unused tourniquet out and what seems like half a wards worth of pens and tape. You let out a sigh putting them down next to your keys.

“Rough night?” He asks, you finally look up at him and nod. 

“First time I felt like I was back on deployment. Screaming ward sisters have nothing on angry generals though.” You smile. He comes over to you wrapping his arm round your waist and pulling you up to his lips.

The kiss is soft and gentle something you needed after such a long night. You forget the fact you stink, you let the horrors of the shift wash off you as he pulls you up against him. You kiss him back almost needy, you needed this. He pulls away first his hand coming to brush your cheek.

“Shower? Then you can tell me all about how horrible the shift was.” You smile at him and kiss him back quickly.

“Where’s Johnny?” 

“He had a bit of a rough night. Turns out fireworks so close to home, not really his cup of tea.” 

“Shit, you should have called me. I could have come home, said it was a family emergency.” Simon chuckles.

“Thought you would be having fun arms deep in blown off limbs.” He says wrapping his arm round your shoulder following you to the bathroom. You chuckle as you open the bathroom door.

“Join me?” You invite him raising an eyebrow. He doesn’t hesitate following you into the room as you go to turn the shower on. 

“Let me.” He insists almost bullying you out the way so he can mess with the water. You let him stripping your clothes before coming up behind him running your hands up his shirt. He turns, a smile growing on his face as he sees you naked his hands coming up to your breasts. You hum as he brushes his fingers over your nipples.

You pull on the hem of his shirt, you want to take it off. He gets the idea stepping back and pulling his cloths off as you step into the shower. It’s hotter then you’re used to but you don’t mind it’s nice to get the grit out your hair letting the water soak through to your scalp.

Simon gets in behind you his hands on your hips pulling you back against him, his hands work their way up your body. His hands are soft and slow as she maps your curves with his fingers. He’s not as needy as Johnny, he likes to take his time. Touch you all over before he starts squeezing and flicking your nipples between his fingers. 

He hums into your neck as his hand travels, down your stomach his hands never leaving contact with your body. You relax against his chest as his tongue runs up your neck. His fingers press through your folds running up and down your clit. You can’t help moaning, your hips pressing further against him. 

You can feel his hard cock pressing against your lower back. You turn in his arms and he presses you further into the shower. The water is hot down your back, your feet ache from being on them so long. You reach up on your tip-toes and kiss him your hand running down his chest. 

You run your hand down his cock, your thumb brushing over the tip. Simon moans in your mouth before pulling away to look down at you. His thumb brushes over your lips as you continue to work your hand round him. He presses you back against the wall. His fingers are pressing up against your entrance as you rock your hips towards him. He chuckles and you grip his shoulders. 

“So perfect.” He hums, pressing his lips to yours. You sink into the kiss as his tongue runs against yours. It’s hot and needy as you wiggle your hips trying to force his fingers in you. He finally relents after what feels like minutes of teasing, pushes his thick fingers into you. You break from the kiss moaning as works them deeper into you, curling them up to hit the oh-so-sweet spot. 

“Simon-” You breathe clenching round his fingers as he controls the speed. His palm presses against your clit as you buck your hips up against him, his cock pressing up against your stomach.

“Feel good?” He asks his voice low almost being drowned out by the running water. You tip your head back panting as he drives you closer to the edge. The steam makes your head feel stuffy as you chase the feeling. Every time you clench around his fingers he speeds up making you gasp and moan into his neck.

“Yes, don’t stop.” You beg as you dig your nails into his shoulder. “Si-” It’s all you manage as you cum on his fingers biting your bottom lip as you moan. You don’t want to be too loud and wake Johnny. 

Simon rides you through the orgasm slowly pulling his fingers out. Your using the wall to support you as your hands fall down to grip his biceps. You look up at him his hair wet pressed against his forehead, you smile at him he smiles back.

You run your hand down his chest to his cock, you wish you could suck him off but there is no way enough room in the shower. At least you would be off your aching feet though. Your thumb knocks against his tip and he twitches in your hand. 

“How’s this going to work?” You ask looking up at him. He cheeky smile comes across his face.  

“Let me,” he says, you frown at him before his bends down hooking his arms under your thighs pressing you up against the wall. You let out a yelp as he holds you like you weigh nothing. You wrap your legs round his back as he slowly lowers you down to the right height. 

“You okay?” He asks moving one of his arms as you lock your hands round his head. Your fingers brushing through his wet hair. He nods and you feel him line himself up with your entrance. You patiently let him do what he needs to do as you hold onto him for dear life. As he slowly lowers you down on his cock it’s like it’s pressing all the air out your lungs.

“Relax,” he says moving his arm back to support you better. You don’t want to what if he slips, he’s holding you up against the wall. “C’mon, I got you, relax.” You sigh relenting and shifting your weight. 

“That’s it,” he says bucking his hips up into you. You moan out as he thrusts into you. You grip his hair, twirling it round in your fingers as he grips your ass pulling you up and down on his cock. You feel so full as you clench round him, he twitches inside you causing you to dip your head into his neck. 

“You feel so good,” you say pressing your lips on his neck. He hums as he bonces you up and down. You’re surprised he’s managing to hold you up as your body becomes slippy with the water. You don’t care though, he feels too good it’s making your head spin, your body relaxes into him your hands running up and down his neck, your head tipping back to hit the wall. 

“Last night wasn’t enough?” You ask panting into his hair. 

“I couldn’t stop thinking about you.” He says, you chuckle moving your hands to his cheeks and pulling his lips to yours. You kiss him deep and long chasing the orgasm building inside you.

“Gonna cum.” You say between kisses. 

“Yeah, cum for me. You deserve it.” He pants. You moan out calling his name as you cum your pussy spasming around him. He cums too with one final thrust pulsing inside you. Your head drops against his chest as he pulls out of you lowering you to the floor. 

Your legs feel like jelly and you have to keep holding on to him. He chuckles, turning you round and letting you rest up against his chest as he presses you back under the shower.

He takes his time to wash you, picking up a scrubber and lathering your body with some kind of orange smelling soap. You let him wash you and listen to him as he tells you how good you’ve been for them. How strong you are for working a horrible 12 hour shift, you're almost falling asleep in the shower accepting the praise. 

“I love you.” You say to Simon as he reaches over turning to shower off. 

“I love you too.” He says bringing your chin up and kissing you. 

He helps you dry even though you don’t need It your body feels heavy your limbs feeling like lead weights. You accept the help as he follows you into the bedroom so you can change into pyjamas. Johnny is still asleep snoring softly as you try to be as quiet as possible pulling on clean clothes. You pass Simon the towel, reaching up and pressing a kiss on his lips. 

“Get some rest I’ll wake you up later.” He whispers smiling. You nod heading over to the bed. You pull back the covers climbing in behind Johnny, pressing your chest against his back and wrapping your arm round him. He murmurs tipping his head back as you snuggle under the duvet. 

“Missed you.” He says sleepily grabbing your hand and bringing it to his lips kissing it.

“Missed you too.” You say. Laying down into the pillows. He turns round in the bed, his eyes half open as he wraps his arm round you pulling you up against him. 

“How was your shift?” He asks yawning.

“Ugh, I’ll tell you later. I’m tired.” You say his yawn making you yawn too. He chuckles squeezing you tight against his chest. 

“Love you Johnny,” you whisper closing your eyes.

“Love you more.” He slurs his lips pressing against the top of your head.  

��----------—

“Hey love look what we got!” Johnny says enthusiastically coming over to you before you have time to react. You’re still rubbing sleep out your eyes as you walk over to him.

“Sparklers.” You smile as he thrusts the package in your hands.

“Yeah we thought since you missed the fireworks last night it would only be fair to save the sparklers for you.” He says, you look up at him smiling before wrapping your arms round him, hugging him. They didn’t have to do that. Johnny breaks away from the hug letting his hand drop to your waist pulling you over to the door. 

“Hey Simon, you coming?” You ask waving the sparklers at him in the kitchen. He nods picking up a lighter off the table. Johnny’s giddy with excitement bouncing out the door onto the balcony. It’s cold and you’re only in your pyjamas.

You should have got a coat but you’re too wrapped up in Johnny’s enthusiasm. He opens the package handing you a sparkler as Simon comes out onto the balcony. He hands you a jacket and you thank him before Johnny shoves a sparkler in his face. 

You pull the jacket on then hold the sparkler out so Simon can light it. You almost immediately start making circles in the air. You smile letting a chuckle come out spelling out your name in the air. You look over at Johnny who looks like he’s drawing spirals in the air.

You feel a warmth bubble inside you. It makes you think back to your childhood. Funny how such a simple activity can invoke such strong feelings of nostalgia. Simon lights his last moving away from Johnny. You take another step back. 

“Hey, lass.” Johnny calls, you look over at him as he draws a heart in the air. You chuckle copying him. Simon rolls his eyes, holding his out making swirls in the air. You watch as Johnny enthusiastically makes shapes, you smile leaning up against Simon. Fireworks are still going off sporadically but Johnny seems completely distracted. 

“I feel like Harry Potter.” He says at one point waving it around like its a wand. You laugh at him, Simon rolls his eyes. It’s nice being out here with them, you turn to look over the wall at the firworks flying across the sky. 

“Woah look at that one!” You call pointing with your sparkler. You turn to look at Simon and Johnny smiling back at you. Johnny’s sparkler dies out and he huffs throwing it on the floor. 

“Hey, maybe next year we can set our own off?” You smile. 

“I can make them!” Johnny shouts enthusiastically, looking at Simon who looks between you both. 

“That would be awesome, we can pick our own colours, we’ll have the best fireworks show in the area.” You say matching his enthusiasm throwing your spent sparkler on the floor and jumping into his arms.

“I don’t know if that’s strictly legal.” Simon says.

“You’re such a buzzkill LT.” 

“Yeah Simon, Johnny would make the best fireworks.” You chuckle. 

“Maybe, we can talk about it next year.” Simon says throwing his sparkler down. You smile at him letting Johnny throw his arm around you, pulling you against him. 

“It was a good bonfire night.” You say.

“You worked a 12 hour shift.” Johnny chuckles.

“It was a good shift. Let me tell you about all the burns I treated.” You nod. Simon smiles and turns to open the door back inside. 

“C’mon. It’s cold, lets order some food.” Simon says. Johnny follows in after him talking about what food he wants. You take a second to look back out at the fireworks still going off. It has been a good bonfire night, you smile and head inside. 

—----------—

[fayes-fics]

When The World Is Free: Chapter 11 - Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien

MASTERPOST PREV | NEXT

Pairing: Benedict Bridgerton x fem!reader, WW2 AU.

Warnings: none really... a little bit of kissing interruptus.

Word Count: 2.6k

Author’s Note: Multi-chapter fic based on a request by the lovely @amillcitygirl. Please see the masterpost for a synopsis of this story. This is a slightly transitional chapter after the seismic events in Chapter 10. Our couple have no regrets but cannot get time alone as our intrepid trio journeys to Aubrey Hall. Yes, here beginnith our latest trope: secret relationship! Thanks as always to @colettebronte for beta reading. Enjoy!

Portsmouth, UK, September 1939

Waking up in Benedict’s arms for a second time is a thoroughly different experience, a handsome smile creasing his face.

“Good morning,” he rumbles, and you feel it buzz in your cheekbone resting on his pectoral.

“Good morning,” you whisper, tilting to kiss his lips.

You want to burrow into his warmth, his naked body, curl around him like a vine. Forget the world; just exist with him here in this warm cocoon. His hand slides up your back, pulling you snugger into him as you kiss - languid, sensual, tongues touching, a stirring you can feel between your legs and in him where your thigh is draped over his lap.

Just as you are about to get lost in this, in him, there is a rapid-fire knocking on the door.

“Wakey, wakey, lazy bones! Let me in!” Eloise’s voice calls, muffled in the corridor outside.

You both swing your heads towards the door, then back to each other in almost comic unison, jumping apart as if burned, exchanging panicked looks as you scurry out of bed.

“Give me a minute,” Benedict grouses loudly for her benefit.

Then, there is a flurry of hushed movement as you fling open suitcases and rapidly throw on the nearest clothing. ‘Bed!’ you mouth, signalling for him to help. You work together in unison to make the bed, not to the point it doesn't look slept in, but certainly not the tangle of sheets from tumultuous lovemaking that it was. Belatedly, you realise you should have put a makeshift pile on the floor as if he slept there.

It's less than a minute from when you were naked in each other’s arms to Benedict opening the door to Eloise, you on the other side of the room attempting nonchalance. She wanders in, looking blissed out but also a little worse for wear, an apparent hangover clinging to her edges as she retrieves a hairbrush from her suitcase. You want to ask how her night was, but her frown stops you. 

“Doesn’t look like anyone slept on the floor…” she comments suspiciously as she pulls up to the mirror. 

“I am, in fact, capable of tidying away blankets and pillows after I use them, sister,” Benedict sighs and rolls his eyes, looking out the window. “It is what I was doing when you so rudely woke up half the hotel, in fact,” he lies.

Eloise sticks her tongue out at him in the mirror, which he roundly ignores.

“Your brother is a true gentleman,” you defend, staying intentionally vague, standing behind her and using the mirror as well to touch up your appearance. 

It's your turn to receive the Eloise look of scornful derision before you steer to a new, safer topic. 

“So, how was your night with Phillip?” you tease affably.

“Oh, he’s wonderful,” a wistful look claiming her face. A secret little smile you have never seen before. “We had such a memorable night.”

“Aaaand I don’t need to hear this,” Benedict deadpans. “I’ll see you ladies downstairs for breakfast…” is his parting shot as he heads for the door. 

But as Eloise leans down to grab a hairpin, launching into a whole story, he winks at you in the reflection, and your heart skips a beat.

——

“So, ready to party your life away in London?” Eloise chirps as the train trundles through rural Hampshire a few hours later. “It's not Paris, but it will do….”

“I thought we were going to your country home?” you frown.

“Well, yes, for a few days. But we can head back up to Bridgerton House for the weekend,” Eloise grins. “Phillip might be in town by then….” You chuckle at her lack of subtlety. “And we can find you a nice man!” she adds.

There is a scrunch of a newspaper diagonally across from you as Benedict’s grip tightens on the broadsheet he is holding, his face wholly obscured behind it.

“Oh, I don't know..” you attempt to laugh it off. “I think I might give that whole party lifestyle a rest.”

“Nonsense! You are not really a married lady, you know,” Eloise withers, rolling her eyes. “And you can take that off now,” she nods to your ring finger.

“Oh…” you fumble, touching it instinctively, the soft lamplight within the compartment making the gold glint brightly. “I thought it safer to wear it while we are still in transit,” you bluff, knowing Benedict is paying full attention to your conversation now, even as he hides behind The Times.

She frowns. “You have your residency now. The British government will not bother tracking you down with this war effort. You could get divorced tomorrow, and literally, nothing would happen,” she opines imperiously as if suddenly an expert on immigration matters.

“Better safe than sorry, Eloise,” Benedict pipes up, folding down the paper and removing his reading glasses with that lecturing elder brother air. His ring catches the sunlight as he does, making something bloom in your ribs to see it.

Just as Eloise goes to dispute it, her face instead lights up from the passing trolley service. “Oooh, snacks!” she exclaims distractedly, craning to look out into the corridor, allowing you to smile your thanks softly at Benedict unseen. His responding lopsided smile has your stomach vaulting.

Then Eloise is on her feet, chasing the attendant that rumbled past your compartment, apparently keen for refreshments. As soon as she is out of sight, you reach a hand across to him. He leans forward and grasps it with both of his.

“We will have time alone at Aubrey Hall, I promise,” he whispers earnestly, his eyes imploring, bringing your hand to his lips and making you stutter as he brushes warm lips over the back of your fingers.

“I want to touch you, Benedict…” you confess ardently, “all the time. So very much…”

His face is a storm of bridled intensity at your words, his pupils dilating rapidly. “As do I….” his words impassioned, even as his expression clouds wincingly, and you know where his thoughts have slid.

“But, Eloise…” you nod, understanding, reluctantly withdrawing your hand and sitting back, a tingle still on your fingers from his lips.

There is no way either of you wants to raise what is happening or what has happened yet. Neither of you is sure of anything except this magnetic pull between you—yearning to be together, alone.

“Yes…” he sighs, pained, slumping back into his seat just as the lady in question twirls back in, hands full with Cadbury's bars and a Fry’s Peppermint Cream.

“I thought you hated Peppermint Cream?” Benedict frowns as Eloise hands you both a Cadbury and immediately unwraps the Fry’s bar for herself, taking a big bite.

“I may be reassessing its merits,” she sniffs before leaning in to whisper to you, muffled around her mouthful. “It’s Phillip's favourite,” she divulges before staring dreamily out the window.

You have never known Eloise to change her mind about anything in the time you have known her, especially not from a man’s opinion. You just shrug at Benedict, conveying your equal surprise. Clearly, this one might be a serious contender.

—

Walking the connecting overhead path to Waterloo Junction for your onward train to Kent, you are startled when Benedict grabs your hand and places it into his coat pocket. You soon realise in the glass reflection ahead that the swish of the open fabric means the connection of your hands is unseen. 

Your heart pounds in your ears as you walk beside Eloise, her none the wiser as your palms grip each other, fingers laced. When you glance up at him briefly, you see the ghost of a smile at the corner of his lips, but he keeps looking ahead as if nothing unusual is happening. 

You want to kiss the little dimple right there at his sheer genius.

—

The onward leg only takes an hour and is filled with amiable chat, mostly about books and films. Soon, you are alighting the train at a charming rural village stop, the platform ablaze with neatly potted late summer plants of reds and yellows.

But you are struck with a sudden wave of nerves as a sleek car awaits you. You are not long away from meeting the rest of the Bridgerton family. Strictly, your family now too.

“Does anyone know?” You ask Eloise as the driver loads your cases into the boot.

“Know what?”

“That Benedict and I are married…?” You spell out, surprised she didn’t follow your train of thought. 

“Oh. Well. I didn’t call or telegram,” she twists to look at Benedict as he places your day bag on top of his. “Did you tell mother?”

He scoffs. “God, no. Not something I could begin to explain over the phone.”

“So what do we say? Or do?” You ask, subconsciously toying with your ring.

Benedict walks over and places comforting hands on your shoulders. It takes all of your willpower not to lean into him. “Don't worry. Follow my lead. I don’t think we can or should lie.” 

Less than a minute into the car ride, you sandwiched between the siblings, Eloise’s eyes flutter closed, face lolling against the glass. You signal to Benedict, and when he twists to see, his hand grabs your kneecap, fingers wrapping around and caressing the ticklish skin near the crease at the back of your knee. Something about this stolen moment is exciting, elicit, and endlessly arousing.

“I cannot go more than an hour in your presence without wanting to touch you,” he whispers, leaning close, his words a hot gust into your ear that has you melting.

“Same,” you murmur back, your hand sliding over his, mapping the raised veins with your fingertips, memories of the last night tumbling through your mind, those strong hands running over your naked flesh, grasping. It makes your breath hitch audibly.

“What are you thinking about?” His voice is a honeyed rumble that makes every hair on your forearms stand on end. He probably knows, but you confirm it anyway.

“Last night…” you mouth, turning your face into him so his lips brush your cheek. His grip tightens, and his breath rags into your hair.

“It's all I have thought about since…” he confesses; your chest flutters as his hand slides a fraction higher on your leg, playing with your hem. Every fibre of your being is calling for him. You want him to keep going, slide all the way up your thighs and touch you… but Eloise stirs, and instantly, his touch is gone, and you are left bereft. 

—

To call Aubrey Hall a country house is ridiculous. Your jaw drops as the car sweeps up a long gravel driveway to an enormous, handsome pile of a manor estate.

“Oh my god, Eloise,” you smack her arm lightly. “How rich are you!?”

She laughs. “What, that my brother is a Viscount doesn't give that away?” she guffaws.

“Well, I thought maybe it was an honourary title or something…” you mutter, feeling slightly embarrassed you don't know the full ins and outs of the British aristocracy you have clearly married into, entirely without knowing.

“Don't be intimidated,” Benedict soothes. “We are just a large family who inherited a big pile. I promise we aren't stuffy or cold.” You want to squeeze his hand for being so empathetic and reassuring.

“Or inbred!” Eloise cackles as the car stops, and you notice a beautiful, elegant middle-aged woman waving from the steps.

“Our mother,” Benedict elucidates before Eloise throws the door open and jogs up to hug the lady, who looks overjoyed to be reunited with her daughter after months away. You can tell Eloise is happy, too, even if her joy is more understated.

Benedict is by your side when you are out of the vehicle. A pillar of support, even if not touching you.

“Mum…” Eloise pulls her down the steps. “This is y/n!”

“Oh, it's wonderful to meet you!” the lady greets, pulling you into a welcoming hug that smells lavender and lilac. “I have heard so much!”

“Same!” you chime back.

Then it is Benedict’s turn to hug her; you swear there is an extra glint in her eye as if he is her favourite. However, you notice he keeps his left hand in his pocket throughout.

“Thank you for bringing them back safe, darling,” she reaches up and pats his hair affectionately as if he is still a child, not a grown man in his late twenties.

“We would have made it home perfectly safe without him, mother,” Eloise gripes with her trademark mettle.

“Eloise Bridgerton, you would have absconded to Saint Tropez if your brother were not there. Don't even lie about that,” Violet chides lovingly, and you can't help but giggle.

“Don't take her side!” Elose decries.

“Come on, it's true,” you laugh, bumping her gently with your shoulder as you walk in through the doors.

It is a beautiful stately home, but at the same time, it seems less imposing on the inside; it looks lived in and loved. A house that is full of family and life.

“You will meet the rest of the family later today,” Violet advises. “Well, minus our brave Viscount, who is in London with Churchill, and Daphne, who lives with her husband.”

“And Fran,” Eloise adds.

“Yes, Francesca is staying with her cousins in Bath,” Violet counsels as she guides you into their parlour.

“She’s barely my sister,” Eloise jests, dropping onto a sofa and grabbing a glass of water from a carafe on the coffee table.

Violet just shoots her an exasperated look while offering you a seat, too. “Eloise told me you were engaged, not already married,” Violet addresses as you get comfortable.

Benedict springs from across the room. “Ahhh, about that….” he placates with his left hand aloft.

“Is that also a ring I see on your finger, Benedict Bridgerton?!” Violet splutters.

“Mother, I can explain….”

And thus, he recounts the events of the last few days. Violet listening intently, looking, in turn, shocked, dumbfounded and proud. Of course, Benedict omits the whole part of the fact you are together romantically. Well, sort of. You think. You are dying to be alone with him so you can talk. Or perhaps do other more exciting things. That idle thought makes your cheeks flush.

“I am so very grateful to your son, Viscountess Bridgerton,” you jump in as much as to steer your own wayward thoughts away from dangerous waters. “Without him, I would likely still be stuck in France, all alone.”

His eyes dance with warmth as you glance at him, wanting to grab his hand and lace your fingers. Out of the corner of your eye, you can see Violet has the most intrigued look as she observes her son carefully—the all-knowing eye of a matriarch.

“Well, I am so grateful you are safe, my dear,” she turns to you. “And please, for goodness sake, call me Violet. You are welcome to remain with us as long as you need or desire. You are family now, after all. At least for as long as you wish to be considered such,” she concludes, seeming to choose her words very carefully.

“Thank you, Violet,” you murmur, so grateful, already feeling a warm glow from her hospitality. “I could not be more honoured to be here for as long as you will all have me,” your eyes drifting back to Benedict as you say it.

The tender look on his face makes you touch your wedding ring idly with your thumb, and your heart leaps as he does the same. Although you swear you can feel the weight of Violet’s stare as you do so.

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[sunsetkerr]

Y/N L/N BREAKS DOWN 'CORNELIA STREET' | s.kerr

summary: you breakdown the story behind and the lyrics of your song 'cornelia street'. [1k words]

pairing: singer!reader x sam kerr

notes: classic genius video

[STUDIO; PALE PINK BACKGROUND, Y/N SITTING]

Y/N L/N: Hi, I'm Y/N L/N and today I'm breaking down my new single 'Cornelia Street'.

'CORNELIA STREET: THE BREAKDOWN'

[CORNELIA STREET INSTRUMENTAL PLAYS IN THE BACKGROUND]

[STUDIO; PALE PINK BACKGROUND. Y/N SITTING, A SMILE ON HER FACE]

Y/N L/N: I wrote this song about my girlfriend, Sam and how we kinda came to be? I guess? It's about realising how much a newer love means to you and how much it could ruin you.

[INSTRUMENTAL PAUSES]

Y/N L/N: Well.. that was a little dramatic, wasn't it?

'WE WERE IN THE BACKSEAT DRUNK ON SOMETHING STRONGER THAN THE DRINKS IN THE BAR // "I RENT A PLACE ON CORNELIA STREET" I SAY CASUALLY IN THE CAR'

[STUDIO; PALE PINK BACKGROUND. Y/N SITTING, A SMILE ON HER FACE]

Y/N L/N: These lyrics reference one of the first times that I ever met Sam. She was in London and playing for Chelsea, I was there co-writing with another artist at the time and we were introduced by some mutual friends. We ended up in an Uber together after a night out and she asked what I was doing in the UK, and I told her about a little apartment that I rented at the time.

[CUTS TO A CLOSER SHOT OF Y/N'S FACE]

Y/N L/N: She soon became very very well acquainted with that apartment.

'WE WERE A FRESH PAGE ON THE DESK FILLING IN THE BLANKS AS WE GO // AS IF THE STREET LIGHTS POINTED IN AN ARROWHEAD LEADING US HOME'

Y/N L/N: Sam and I weren't really sure what we were doing at the time, if it was official or not, we were making it up as we went really. She's got a super busy schedule, her workload is very demanding. That was something we both came to terms with very quickly in our little 'will they, won't they' situation.

[CUTS TO Y/N HOLDING UP A POLAROID OF SAM POINTING TO THE 'CORNELIA ST' STREET SIGN]

Y/N L/N: I think we were really lucky that my schedule wasn't super hectic at that point in time, because I'm not sure how we would've managed it (CHUCKLES). Now we've been together for nearly two years, we've worked out a system.

'AND I HOPE I NEVER LOSE YOU, HOPE IT NEVER ENDS, I'D NEVER WALK CORNELIA STREET AGAIN // THAT'S THE KIND OF HEARTBREAK TIME COULD NEVER MEND, I'D NEVER WALK CORNELIA STREET AGAIN'

Y/N: This part is my favourite.

[CLIPS OF SAM FILMED ON A SUPER-8 FILM CAMERA, Y/N IS FILMING. SAM IS LAYING ON THE COUCH LOOKING OVER TO Y/N, SHE WAVES SHYLY FROM HER SPOT UNDERNEATH A GREY THROW BLANKET]

Y/N L/N: It's pretty self-explanatory to be completely honest. I don't plan on losing her anytime soon.

[B-ROLL FOOTAGE; SAM SITTING ON A CHAIR BEHIND THE CAMERA, WATCHING Y/N SPEAK. A BIG SMILE ON HER FACE]

'AND BABY, I GET MYSTIFIED BY HOW THIS CITY SCREAMS YOUR NAME // AND BABY, I'M SO TERRIFIED OF IF YOU EVER WALK AWAY'

Y/N L/N: I had never watched football before Sam... like, ever. I wasn't a fan, I had no interest in it. So when we started dating she took me to my first ever game and I watched her play again Man City. The crowd just loved her (Y/N SHAKES HER HEAD IN DISBELIEF). I never realised how much Sam could hold thousands of people in the palm of her hand. They adore her.

[CLIPS OF Y/N ON THE BIG SCREEN AT A CHELSEA GAME, PANS TO SAM ON THE PITCH, SMILING UP AT THE FOOTAGE]

Y/N L/N: It was funny because.. we had just gotten back from flying from.. somewhere? who knows. but Sam had gotten in the morning of the game and the crowd did this chant. It was 'even with jet lag, she's better than you' (LAUGHS).

[CLIP OF THE CROWD CHANTING 'EVEN WITH JET LAG SHE'S BETTER THAN YOU'. SAM TURNING AROUND TO LOOK AT THE CROWD SHYLY]

Y/N L/N: I mean it's true (SHRUGS). I was so taken aback by how much they all just loved her, but now whenever I sit in the crowd section, I make sure we chant it... it's my favourite.

'BACK WHEN WE WERE CARD SHARKS, PLAYING GAMES, I THOUGHT YOU WERE LEADING ME ON // I PACKED MY BAGS, LEFT CORNELIA STREET BEFORE YOU EVEN KNEW I WAS GONE'

Y/N L/N: There was a moment before Sam and I officially got together that I almost.. ran away? kinda.

SAM (OFFSCREEN): Kinda?!

Y/N L/N: (LAUGHS ALONG WITH THE CREW) I did, I completely did. I for some reason just got really nervous that she wasn't as serious about it. I had lots of conflicting feelings at the time, but Sam was very quick to get me back on track and make me realise what the important things were.

'BUT THEN YOU CALLED, SHOWED YOUR HAND, I TURNED AROUND BEFORE I HIT THE TUNNEL // SAT ON THE ROOF, YOU AND I'

Y/N L/N: She fixed it all, as she does. Sam is very good at that.

[CLIP OF Y/N AND SAM KISSING OVER THE BARRIER OF CHELSEA'S HOME GROUND]

Y/N L/N: She fixes everything.

'YOU HOLD MY HAND ON THE STREET, WALK ME BACK TO THAT APARTMENT. YEARS AGO, WE WERE JUST INSIDE // BAREFOOT IN THE KITCHEN, SACRED NEW BEGINNINGS THAT BECAME MY RELIGION, LISTEN'

Y/N L/N: I don't stay at Cornelia Street anymore, Sam and I live together now when we're both in London. We went back before I wrote this song and it was so surreal to realise that someone else was now in that apartment.

[PHOTOS OF Y/N AND SAM FADE ONTO THE SCREEN, ALL FROM INSIDE THE CORNELIA STREET APARTMENT]

Y/N L/N: We spent so much time in that apartment it was like our first home together. Really it was just a place for us to spend our down time. I love that apartment and I try to go back every time I'm in London... which is a lot. So, thanks to Cornelia Street for having me and thank you to Sam for having me.

[CUTS TO A CLOSE UP OF Y/N]

Y/N L/N: I'm very lucky.

[bad268]

Angel (Mick Schumacher X Reader)

Fandom: RPF/Formula 1

Requested: Day 16 of Writing Inktober prompts instead of drawing!

Warnings: pregnant reader, mentions throwing up once (literally just says it, doesn't actually go anywhere).

Pronouns: You/your (but pregnant reader)

W.C. 395

As always, my requests are OPEN

MASTERLIST // HITLIST

Writing Inktober 2023 Materlist

~~(^Google/US Sun)

It had already been a long day, and you hadn’t even done anything other than watch a movie, sleep, and throw up. Being pregnant was no joke, and currently, you were regretting it.

Currently, you were sitting on the couch, watching your comfort show while sipping some tea in an attempt to ease your stomach when your phone went off with a text notification.

“Are you feeling any better or is it still as bad as when I called you earlier?” It read from Mick. He called you right when you woke up since he was in the UK doing some pretesting and would be busy pretty much all day.

“Not really. I know you’re in a meeting, but I miss you,” You sent back. You didn’t want to be too much of a downer, especially when he couldn’t really do anything to help.

“I’ll always text you. Toto can’t take my phone away,” he replied immediately before three more dots appeared. “If you need anything let me know. I’ll call you after the meeting.”

It didn’t feel like you were asleep for long, but when you opened your eyes, the moon was high in the sky. Last you remembered, it was barely noon. You can’t even remember if you zoned out while watching your show or if you actually fell asleep. What pulled you out of your trance? Knocking, but who would be at your house at 10 o'clock at night (you checked the clock)?

You got up from the blanket cocoon you had buried yourself in to answer it, and it was a delivery of your favorite food. You thanked the person before closing the door and heading back to the couch to text Mick.

“Did you send me this?” You sent with a picture.

It didn’t take long for him to answer with, “Of course! I needed to make sure you ate something.” It made you tear up at his thoughtful actions.

“You're an angle,” You sent back quickly, immediately noticing the typo. You let out a groan before going to correct yourself, “**Angel”.

“Acute one I hope?” He replied to the first text, ignoring the correction. You laughed to yourself for a second, thinking of a response.

“If I say yes, will you come home sooner?” I joked, slightly optimistic.

“Answer the door,” his text read as there was more knocking.

~~~~~

© BAD268 2023. DO NOT REPOST WITHOUT PERMISSION.

[hirik0]

Save with you

09Soap/Ghost Omegavers AlphaSoap OmegaGhost

CW: mentioning of past rape/non-con

Ghost knows the second they are getting on exfile something is wrong. He just can't put his finger on it. Maybe he's just getting sick after 3 months in ass cold siberia. He's so tired and it's so warm, his cloths are to itchy. He rest his head on Soaps shoulder before closing his eyes the fly back to the UK is long, maybe he feels a bit better after he sleeped. Even through the scent blockers he could smell Soap, jew and the sea. Save, hes thinking and this should have make all his alarms ring he never feel safes around Alphas. He moves his head a bit to be able to scent the Alpha better making a nearly silent purr that Soap cant hear over the sound of the engins. The first heat Ghost has since Roba is about to hit him. The first time Soap notice that everything is going to hell is when he gets the smalest hint of a lemon smell in his nose. Not knowing that Ghost is a Omega he thinks the smell most be from on of the pilots, so he just rest his head on Ghosts before he also falls asleep. The walk to Price office for the debrief feels like its taking forever, Ghost knows is just 20 minutes from the runway to the office but every think in his brain is just so muffeld as if something is trying to pull him under. Ghost honestly just wants to sleep, with as much blankets as possible, at the same time a unexplainable feeling of dread is also start to build up. He still brushes its of as just getting sick, what is also happening rather rarely to the degree that he just wants to sleep. When he walks in to Price office he's put off by the smell of cigars in the room having to hold back a gaging sound. Something is wrong Ghost thinks to himself, still not able to put his finger on it. He can just go into his room after the debrief. It's probably not that big if a deal to even mention.

The moment Price notices that everything is going to shit is when he smells a very low hint of liquorice in the air. He stops Soap mid sentence and looks at Ghost and he sees how glossed over the Lieutenants eyes are. Soap looks concerned from Ghost to Price, feeling that something is off. "Simon? Are you going into heat?", Price ask suddenly really concerned and is blindsiting Soap totally with this information. Ghost heat? Ghost is a OMEGA?!? No that can't be right Ghost is a beta all the years he knows Ghost he never had a heat. Ghost is just getting sick, Price must be mistaken. That's when Ghost starts to panic. Heat?!?, he's going into heat? Oh fuck no, he can't NO. Please everything but a heat, he takes a bad flue everyday. The foul smell of Roba and his men is filling his nose and he's about to throw up. "Oh bloody hell", Price curses before calling medical when he sees the absolute horror in Ghost eyes. The two had a deal the second Ghost notices heat symptoms he tells Price even if its a false alarm, but he guess that this also hit Ghost totally unprepared. Suddenly Ghost is pressing himself into a corner of the office, hyperventilating. Feeling the hands of long dead men roaming over his body, hearing their disgusting remarks about him, hearing Roba laught everytime he cryed and blowing cheap cigar smoke right into face. He feels uterly disgusting felling the urge to just scrath away the skin this men touched all over again. So he start scratching over his arms till he starts to bleed. Soap trys to stand up but Price tells him to stay where he is, knowing that the second Ghost rembers he has at least 20 knives on him he will use them to defend himself unnable to distinguish between friend or enemy. It's ugly, when the quite big medical team appears. They have to press Ghost to the floor with 3 people what is an absolute fight for all people involved. Some people now having a bloody face from broken noses or bloody lips a few will have a black eye. When they are finally able to sedate Ghost everyone is sweating. Ghost clearly having the feeling he has to fight for his live.

Price and Soap are staying behind in the office Price looking worried and Soap is so fucking angry. His blood is boiling never being this angry not even in rut, this was preventable. This is something he needed to know, what if it had hit Ghost earlier when they where still in Russia. "Why was I never told Ghost is a Omega, why is it not in his file?", he demands to know. "It was never important, Soap", PRice trys to explain, setting Soap of in even more rage. "Never important, this is fucking important to know", Soap is bearly abel not to scream at Price. "This is his first heat since Roba. Soap, we weren't even sure he still is able to go into heat after everything. So it was not important to know for anyone. Besites a selected few." That stinks and fuels Soaps anger even more. Ghost trusted him, he worked so hard for it, did this not qualify to be one of the selected few? "So you led him on solo missions knowing he could go into heat?!", Soap is yellig now. "Soap he still takes supprestents and blockers this would never happen. We also talked about it that IF he notices something is off he returns to base mission unfinished everything was taken care of", the older Alpha growls, now having his own problems to stay calm. "Well did work out really good, hell does Ghost even fucking know what going in to heat feels like if he haden one in so long?", Soap screams and then he is hit full force with a realisation. The only person Ghost had contact for the last 3 months is him. This is his fault and that all because Price thought it was not important to tell him. The older Alpha makes a displeased noise when he sees a face of absolute horror on Soaps face. "Soap, this is not your fault", he trys to calm Soap down but failing miserable. "Well it's not like its his natural heat cycle. He spend the last 3 months nonstop with a only one Alpha, me, of course this is my fault", Soap spits out, the rage slowly gets replaced by guild and shame. Price wants to argue back, but the phone is interrupting him.

"This is Dr. Bloomberg with an update. When Lieutenant Riley woke up from the sedaction he had a full blown panic attack and started to hurt himself again. Because of the severity of the PTSD he's is experiencing we gave him a new experimental emergency drug. The drug basicly stops the hormone production that are neaded for a heat. Its the absolute sledgehammer solution. His reaction is really bad so we had to put in in a medicial coma." Price heart is dropping. "We think his reaction is so bad because he didn't had a heat in 7 years. We are optimistic we can pull him out of the coma by Friday if his blood work comes back good, we can't tell for sure because the drug is still so new and Lieutenant Riley beeing such a special case." Price face is dropping getting pale at the news, all the anger he felt just crumbling in to nothingness. "Thank you doctor." Soap sits on the chair feeling absolutely miserable, a hard knot of guilt is forming where is stomach used to be. "Is there anything we can do?" "I fear not Captain, time will tell, but we are optimistic that he will be as good as new when he's out of the coma", Bloomberg says not really convinced herself. "Captian, you should think about a mating candidate for him, the drug is generally working a lot better on mated Omegas." "A mate? Doctor, by all respect but I don't see Ghost take anyone as his mate in the near future." "I fear with how badly this all went down he dont has a choice anymore. We cant put him down in to a coma every time he gets a heat, Captain", Dr Bloomberg sounds like she also hates this. "Thank you Doc you can call me or Captain MacTavish at anytime if you have any updates.", Price ends the call sounding very mechanical. It's silent in the office and Soap wants to throw up in the hope to get rid if what ever the fuck is replacing his organs. "Its not your fault Soap. He's around Alphas daily, some off them not even bothering to take blockers with out ever going in to heat. Every Alpha in 141 could have triggered it", Price trys to reasure Soap again. Soap just looks at him with a gultiy expression and Price asks himself if he should have told Soap. Even if telling Soap wouldn't have changed a thing.

The news that Lieutant Simon 'Ghost' Riley is a Omega spreat like wild fire on base. The compalins of Omegas about mistreatment dropped drasticly. The new respect even the most macho Alphas starting to show is either a sighn of fear or respect. Soap on the other hand still feels missrable. Everyone in the 141 told him its not his fault but it dosent matter, he is at fault for Ghost being in a coma. Dr. Bloomberg called earlier totady that they will wake Ghost up today, his lab results clearly having improved, to a level they think he's stable enough. They will call later in the day if Ghost already can get visitors or if they have to wait till monday, because of how badly he reacted to the emergency drug. Soap sits in Price office, begging to be send on a solo mission. "Soap, i will not send you on a solo mission while you throw yourself a pitty party. You will end up dead. Even if Ghost is angry at you, he's just out of a coma he should not be able to kill you. I honestly dont even think he will blame you." "You just hope if i apologies he will not kill anyone for the mate think", Soap accuses Price. "Oh no, the mate thing that can Dr. Bloomberg tell him, its her idea anyways." Thats the second think Soap hates, Ghost getting a mate, he just hates to even thing about Ghost having a mate. His alpha instincts are raging over this. It dont make sence he knows that Ghost is a Omega for 4 days. Ghost getting a mate should not make him so angry, he never got angry over Ghost flirting with anyone before. The information that Ghost is a Omega just should not change how is Soap feeling about a potential partner choices. "You already looked for someone?", Soap asked stiffly. "Im not going behind Ghost back with this, his choice to chosse a mate might be forced on him, but I will not force a person on to him." This is relaxing Soap a bit. A small voice wispering in his head, so I can become his mate.

When Ghost opens his eyes he just wants to die. His head is feeling like his brain is trying to make his skull explode. He fells like the second hes moving hes about to throw up. For some reason his throat feels like he try to eat sand and hes having a pretty bad memory lost. He just remebers the fly bad with Soap and everythink after this is just gone. He notices how many nedels are in both his arms and even his neck. He in medical, why is he in medical? He was not hurt right? Did the aircraft crash? Where even is he, besides a hospital room? The next think he notices the smell of lemon and liquorice. Hes not on blockers, why is he not on his blockers? Hes feeling panik rise up again and this is not helping his nausia. A nurse is entering his room smiling at him timidly. "I will get Dr. Bloomberg, Lieutnant", she says before leaving the room again. His panic is diying down a bit, hes back at base he still dont know why hes in medic but it look like they made it to home base. If he would know what hes about to learn he would prefere to not made it back. When the Doctor is entering his room she has a nervous look on her face. As if she was hoping she had a bit more time before this conversation. "Im, so sorry Lieutnant", the female Alpha starts and the feeling of dread is bubeling up in Ghost. "You, got in a unexpected heat right after you returend with Captain MacTavish." Ghost pukes on the floor, this is the worst think ever to happen to him. "Because of your past you got a bad panic attack and we had to use a new drug on you to forcefully break your heat. Your body didnt took this so well, but we had no choice. So you were in a coma for 4 days. And Im so sorry to say this but we think it would be the best for you to take a mate from a medical point." Ghost is shortly stopping pukeing his guts out to look at the Doctor. "We have to asume you're about to get a regular heat cycel again and we hope if you have a mate we dont have to put you in a coma everytime you go into a heat. The new drug is working a lot better on mated Omegas. Im so sorry this is probably the last think you want to hear." And even while hes still pukeing out a concernig amount of acid he believes the doctor. "We will give you something against the nausia.", is the last think before the docotor is basicly running out of the room. The first think after telling the nurses about the anti nausia medication Dr. Bloomberg is calling Captian Price. "I think its the best if we give Lieutnant Riley time to prosses all the information, I will talk to him again tomorow, but no visitors till Monday, Captain." "How's he doing?" "Hes puking his guts out, what is not of concerns because thats a more normal site effect of the drug. I'm not sure how long we will keep him. He's really not handeling the drug well. I honestly would prefere to never use it on him again if we dont have to." "Even with a mate?" "Even with a mate, maybe he will response to the drug better if his heat cycel gets more regular. I honestly dont think it was ever used on a Omega that did'nt had a heat as long as the Lieutnant. Even if he refuses to take a mate, he atleast should have a few Alphas that can help him break the heat. He will not able to serve anymore other wise and he cant go back in to a civilian life like this. We really need to make this clear to him."

Price is sitting in his office still thinking about what the Doctor told him. He agrees that they cant send Ghost back into a civilian live, especialy with him having heats again and how horrible hes handeling them. He looks into some of the files of members of the 141, trying to figure out whitch of the Alphas besites him are now on duty to atleast get Ghost throw his heats. The list will be just as short as the list of people keeping it a secret that Ghost is a omega, that list only had 4 names on it. Its a struggel, he needs expirienct Alphas for this iliminating Roach one one of only Alphas Ghost trusts. The other canditate is Soap, but Soap is still feeling aboslutly horrible about Ghost going into a heat in the first place. The problem is the only other Alpha he trust with this is mated meaning that basicly all his candidates are the worst choice. He still orders the three in his office to talk about this. Soap, Roach and Ozone are sitting in front of him. "I had a call earlier with Dr. Bloomberg. Ghost is awake and still expirencing side effects from the drug they had to give him. Dr. Bloomberg is of the opinion that if Ghost refuses to take a mate he at least should have Alphas helping him with his heats. These Alphas will be us 4. If Archer is not confortable with this you're out Ozone." The three are nodding. "Roach you will team up with one off us at the begining, Ghost will not be a easy Omega to take care off. I will talk about this with Ghost first think on Monday before that nobody can see him he still needs to recover", Price explains the situation. Soap feels like throwing up upon this news. He of all people should not be here. "Soap, can you please stay behind?" "Yes, Sir."

Soap sees Roach and Ozone walk out of the room and he just feels miserable. "Son, I know you about to protest about this, but you are one of the only Alphas that Ghost trust enough to agree to this." Soap just looks at the floor feeling like he dont deserves this trust anymore. Tears are filling his eyes. "Soap, look at me", Price pleads and Soap looks at him as the tears start running down. "I'm sorry. I should have told you. You are right you had a right to know as the other Captian of the task force. But even if you knew it was probably already to late he was already at the beging of his heat. I honestly also wouldnt have know that is happeing if Simon didnt told me he what his scent is", Price says while Soap is sniffing and nodding along. "What is his scent, Sir?", Soap ask with a teary voice "Liquorice and lemon." "There was a hint of lemon smell on exfill but i thought is was one of the pilots." "Soap the only think you could have done different was bringing him directly to medical. Everythink else would have just turned out the same the moment Simon realised what is happening", Price reasures him and for the first time in 4 days Soap starts not feeling so miserable and guilty. "Thank you Price."

[oumaheroes]

Hello! Have u ever written little Peter with the UK bros and if not, do u have any headcanons as to how they would get along/what they would do when he’s over? Like Scotland carrying him on his shoulders taking him to a rugby game idk ! Basically, UK Bros + Sealand

PS thank god for u and ur big juicy brain I love all ur uk bros content SO much

I have far too many headcanons about little Peter and his strange father and uncles ;u;

I hope this little ficlet pleases you, Anon!

Characters: Sealand, Scotland

------

‘What on earth do you think you’re doing?’

By the light of a phone torch, Scotland saw Sealand start violently at the bottom of the stairs and press his fist to his chest in a vaguely England-like gesture.

‘You scared the shit out of me!’ He hissed in a stage whisper.

The boy was wearing long, light blue pyjamas; tatty, well-worn child sized things that England had kept about the house for the last thirty years in case of emergency. Whether emergency new child, or child emergency Scotland didn’t want to give thought to. Sealand been staying in England’s London house with him for a while, from what Scotland could guess, and he’d heard no whisper of him going back to his fort any time soon. Maybe longer too than England had planned for.

From his spot on the sofa, Scotland sat up enough to throw a cushion at him. It hit Sealand gently on the head and the boy glared at him, ‘What was that for?’

‘Asked you a question.’

‘I came down for a drink.’

‘Tap not good enough for you in the bathroom upstairs? And turn that bloody torch off.’

Sealand did so. ‘I wanted milk.’

‘Christ.’ Scotland flopped back down onto the sofa and crossed his arms under his head, ‘You’re spoilt, you are.’

Sealand said nothing. He stood there for unmoving for a while, as if waiting to be told off or shoo’d back to bed. When this didn’t come, after a moment Scotland heard him approach the sofa and then he appeared above him, arms crossed on the backrest and face dark in the dim light, ‘What are you doing down here.’

In reply, Scotland pointed to the ceiling. Sealand followed to where he was pointing and they both waited in silence until a large, rumbling snore made itself known through the floorboards.

‘Ah.’

‘Can’t shut him up.’

‘I thought you were in my room?’

‘I can hear him through the walls. Quieter down here.’

Sealand looked thoughtful, ‘You should have gone to bed before him.’

‘Wouldn’t have mattered. He’s had whiskey; that always makes him louder.’

‘Dad’s got special headphones you could have stolen. He uses them for when he and Uncle Rhys go camping.’

‘Do I look like I want more bullshit this weekend?’ Scotland huffed and pulled the blanket he was under higher up to his chin, ‘Bad enough with him griping about his fucking shed.’

‘The one you broke the roof of?’

‘It was rotten. I stepped on- you know what? I’m not having this argument at-‘ Scotland checked his phone, squinting at the screen in the dim light, ‘two o’clock in the morning. Now piss off and let me sleep.’

Sealand’s head disappeared. Scotland flipped over on his side, hiding his eyes under his hand as the kitchen light flicked on.

After a few minutes of rummaging and the sounds of cupboards opening and closing, the light turned back off and Scotland heard Sealand return to the living room.

‘Got you a digestive, if you want it.’

‘Nah ta. All yours.’

Sealand immediately took a huge bite. Scotland got the impression that the offer hadn’t been entirely genuine.

‘Are you going to be working on the car again tomorrow?’

‘Hmm.’

‘Can I help?’

‘No.’

‘Why?’

‘Christ Peter, ‘Scotland dropped his hand, ‘what do you want, lad?’

‘Nothing.’ The glass in Sealand’s hand reflected the streetlight through the curtain as he moved, ‘Just asked a question.’

A silence fell. There was something Sealand wasn’t saying, an all too familiar unspoken request that Scotland had encountered many times throughout the years.

He sighed and sat up, twisting to turn on the side table lamp as he did so. The light revealed Sealand by the coffee table, small looking in his baggy pyjama shirt. His hair was ruffled, tousled from a restless and uneasy sleep and he turned his face away when Scotland looked at him to toe at the rug. He reminded Scotland of someone very similar over a millennia ago, someone too stubborn to say what he really wanted but desperately wanting it anyway.

‘What.’ Sealand said defensively, meeting Scotland’s eye.

‘Can’t sleep?’

Sealand shrugged but stayed quiet.

‘If Arthur’s on your side of the bed, just kick him.’

Sealand conceded to a small smile but didn’t offer anything else.

Scotland swung his legs to the floor and reached for the remote on the coffee table, ‘What was that shit show you keep going on at me to watch?’

‘Ultimate Survivor?’

‘That’s the one.’ Scotland clicked the TV on and turned the volume down low, ‘Might as well get it over with if we’ve got nothing better to do. I’m not going to be able to sleep whilst Rhys is like that.’

‘Really?’ Sealand brightened.

‘Aye. And I’ll prove to you it’s all bullshit.’

‘It’s really not.’ Sealand joined him on the sofa and buried his legs under Scotland’s blanket, ‘They’ve got all these specialists-‘

‘Bullshit.’

‘It’s not!’

‘Nah, I mean what advice they give. Half is too pretentious and the other half’s all bollocks.’ Scotland settled back against the sofa and slung his arm over the back, ‘Like that Bear Grylls idiot- drinking your own piss. What an eejit.’

‘If you’re ever stranded without water-‘

Scotland made a face, ‘He wouldn’t know how to make a good fire if he was next to a burning house. Now shut up and let me focus.’

Sealand scooted closer and drew his knees up, ‘Bet you one of them will give up before ten minutes in.’

‘I reckon five. English pansies.’

‘Winner gets a tenner?’

‘Deal.’

[midnightkens]

29 with ken and colt PLEASEE

Colt has a love/hate relationship with Scotland.

The country is gorgeous, and fantastic for sightseeing. From castle tours, to island exploration and the various hiking trails, Colt has no time to be bored after a long day on set.

The negatives?

The rain feels never ending, and it's freezing.

Los Angeles spoils him. It hardly ever gets cold enough for him to need a heavy jacket, and it's even rarer that he needs an umbrella. January in the UK is brutal, bitter cold, and snapping wind. He's been here for five weeks, and he's sick of it.

The stunt team isn't needed on set anymore. Normally, Colt would only spend a couple of days sightseeing before heading home, but Ken's never left the States, and they've never taken a big trip together. A few road trips, sure, but nothing more than a few hours from home.

Naturally, Ken had jumped at the chance.

His partner got in yesterday, and Colt hadn't realized how much he missed him until Ken was in front of him again.

A small smile graces Colt's face. They'd gone on a castle tour yesterday, and Ken stopped every thirty seconds to take pictures. They'd gone to bed relatively early; Colt's used to jet lag, but it'd taken Ken off guard.

Which is why, when he rolls onto his side, he's surprised to find the other side of the bed empty. He frowns and leans up on his elbow, but then the smell of pancakes wafts under the door. He shouldn't really be surprised. Ken doesn't sleep well, especially in unfamiliar places.

Colt throws the blanket off himself and shivers against the chill that crawls down his spine. He pads over to his closet, searching for a familiar green sweater. He's had it for years, but it's as warm and cozy as ever. He scours the closet once, twice, thrice. He knows he packed it. That sweater travels to every cold location with him. It's not the same as his Miami Vice jacket (God, he misses it), but it's a decent second best.

He pauses his search and smirks when he remembers the empty bed, the smell of pancakes, and suddenly the sweaters whereabouts become clearer.

He quietly makes his way to the kitchen and watches his partner for a moment. Ken's in his element. His blond hair is still mussed from sleep, but his movements are energetic as he prepares pancake batter and bops his head, singing quietly to the music playing from his phone.

Ken has yet to notice his presence. Colt leans against the wall and grins.

"Morning, babe," he says conversationally. "I can't find my favorite sweater. Did you borrow it?"

Ken stops singing and turns around to look at him. He grins sheepishly and rolls up the sleeves. Colt relishes in the sight. He looks relaxed. A little over a year ago, he would've started anxiously rambling and explaining himself, but he hasn't done that in a long time. He feels safe with Colt, free to unabashedly be himself.

Colt's been given a precious gift in Ken's trust. What an honor.

"Listen..." Mirth dances behind Ken's eyes, and he shrugs. "It's warm. And huge." The sweater is pretty big on him. Ken isn't scrawny, but Colt's more muscular, and the sweater is even a bit large on him. Ken isn't swimming in it, but pretty damn close. "And soooo much cozier than mine."

Colt crosses the room in two steps and pulls Ken close to him, basking in the familiar, faint smell of lavender. Ken hums contentedly and leans into the touch, wrapping his arms around Colt's waist. His breath hitches as Colt trails soft kisses along his jaw.

Seeing Ken in his clothes just does things to him. Colt presses his lips to Ken's, soft and gentle. For now.

Ken pulls away and presses his forehead to Colt's. "It smells like you."

"Hmmmm?"

"You know what I mean. The sweater smells like you." Ken looks away, flush crossing his face. "I've missed you."

The rush of fondness is so strong that it overwhelms him. He loves Ken so much that sometimes he doesn't know what to do with it. He wants to give Ken the world, and somehow it doesn't seem like enough. "I've missed you, too." He whispers. "I love you."

"I love you, too." Ken threads his fingers through Colt's hair, and Colt closes his eyes. If he almost purrs like a cat, well. Ken won't tell anyone. "I can give the sweater back - "

"Nah." Colt shakes his head and grins. "That's okay. It looks better on you."

[daydream-cement]

Violet and Rose Ch. 24

Larissa Weems x OC (Fern Rogers)

“And you’re mad at me?” Larissa was seated upright in bed as she spoke to you. Her reading glasses were perched on the edge of her nose and a book rested in her lap. She was watching as you prepared for bed.

You weren’t exactly mad at her, but the entire situation. Yes, it was sweet that somehow she is helping you wield your powers while they seem to be nonfunctional, but you weren’t interested in needing help. She couldn’t be there with you every second of the day to help you grow the simplest of things. You need your powers to be effective in your career.

“I’m not mad at you.” You pulled on a nightshirt that had at one point been oversized, but now fit more snugly than you would have liked due to your growing belly. Even your tone made it sound like you were angry with her. You blamed it all on the hormones. One second you were up and the next you were down.

“You sound like you are mad at me.” Larissa didn’t seem to be particularly affected by your mood, instead her tone was very level and calm.

“Nothing makes sense. The forest is dying. Oh wait, no it isn’t. Hey, Fern, your powers don’t work. Wait, yes they do. Only with your wife’s help though. It doesn’t even make any sense.” You began rambling, just trying to get all of your thoughts out in front of you so you could begin sorting through them all. At the end of the way, you wanted to grow a couple of plants in peace. Was that too much to ask for? You had even begun replaying the timeline in your head, trying to remember when you used your powers last, “I used my powers on the way to Wisconsin, while we were in Wisconsin, and even in the UK when we first arrived. Then somehow, we fight, and I don’t have them anymore. Is it because of us? Is it because of the babies? I have no clue.”

“Wife?” Larissa couldn’t hide her smile.

“That’s all you heard? From all of that?” You move to throw your dirty clothes in the hamper before disappearing into the bathroom.

“I’m listening!” Larissa folded her book closed and removed her glasses, setting them both on her nightstand, “Perhaps we can consult with some books on outcast pregnancy or something?”

“Should I call Dr. Feng? She might know something.” You glance at her as you begin your nightly routine of washing your face and brushing your teeth.

“We can give her a call in the morning if that makes you feel better. I wonder if it’s a shapeshifter baby thing or a plant manipulator pregnancy thing?” Larissa began to ponder out loud, her fingers toying with the fabric of the bedspread, “We could call our mothers to see what their pregnancies are like? Maybe something happened to my mother’s powers when she was pregnant with me?”

You listened to Larissa from the bathroom doorway while she spoke as you brushed your teeth. You spat into the sink before adding your two cents, “Whatever it is, I want it figured out immediately.”

You wiped your mouth and rinsed your toothbrush, leaving the brush behind in the holder near Larissa’s. Circling the bed, you crawl into your side on the right, immediately pulling the covers to your chin, staring up at Larissa from your place on the pillow. Larissa turns off her bedside lamp, turning the room dark, and shifts down into the blankets so she can bring herself closer to you. Her fingers reach out in the darkness of the room, stroking your cheek gently, “We will figure this out together, Fern.”

You only hum in response, thoughts drifting to the potentially disastrous botany classes you are bound to have without being able to use your powers. Larissa shifts closer, trying to interrupt your thoughts. Her arms came around you to pull you close, wanting to feel your body against hers. Larissa’s hands teased at your hair, twisting your blond locks around her long fingers, gently combing out the knots. As she held and doted after you, Larissa idly spoke to you, “I am deliriously in love with you. We will figure all of this out, honey. Whatever you need, I will help you with it…”

“Thank you…” You mumble, happy to be babied by her for a little bit.

A few moments passed by and you felt yourself drifting off to sleep, the soothing rise and fall of Larissa’s chest was always one of the most comforting sensations to you. You were pulled out of sleep by Larissa asking a final question, “So you said wife, correct?”

—

You were grading some of the pre-course assessments for your introductory class when Larissa brought you lunch from the little diner on Main St. She delivered it with a kiss on your forehead, her fingers wiping away the lipstick afterwards. Larissa had apparently already spoken to both of your mothers and Dr. Feng between her meetings this morning. As she filled you in on the details of her conversations, you dug around the sandwich box, seeing a sandwich, chips, fruit and a little cookie, “When I talked to Dr. Feng, she said it was perfectly normal for outcast mothers to have fluctuations in their abilities during pregnancies. Between hormones shifting and possible exhaustion, your powers may be momentarily acting up.”

You nodded in understanding, taking a bite of the turkey sandwich without speaking and allowed her to continue on with her findings, “My mother said being pregnant me was the worst thing she has ever experienced and she thanks God everyday that I am not a complete disappointment.”

“Oh, so she was in a pleasant mood today?” You had to offer her a bit of a joke in response, setting your sandwich to the side and picking up a couple chips to pop into your mouth next.

Larissa plucked a couple of your chips from the bag, speaking before she ate them, “Yes, kinder than normal actually.”

“How sweet.” You return to your sandwich, sharing a smile with Larissa before digging back into your food.

Larissa leaned forward in her chair, excited to tell you the phone call with your mother, “Your mother has the most helpful information in my opinion. She said she was absolutely exhausted when she was pregnant with you. She said she was out of work almost the entire time she was pregnant with your grandmother caring for her. I wonder if you are pregnant with a baby who shares your powers and that's why you are struggling to use them?”

“Definitely a possibility. If that’s true, I’ll be a fairly useless teacher to you until next year. Even at that I don’t know if I’ll be of much use after they are born either.” The words seemed to tumble from your mouth, not quite understanding the gravity of your self-deprecation until you saw the look Larissa was giving you.

“Useless? Do you really think we hired you just for your outcast abilities?” Larissa’s voice was gentle, her fingers reaching out to brush a few stray hairs from your face, “Fern, you are more than qualified to teach students about plant science. I won’t have you talking yourself down just due to the absence of powers.”

“Yeah, yeah, yeah…” You wave a hand and take another bite, ignoring her affirming words. Larissa took a hold of your wrist, pulling your hand closer to steal a large bite of the sandwich. This drew a shocked reaction from you, “What are you doing?”

“Keep talking like that about yourself and I’ll steal the whole thing.” Larissa stood from her chair, reaching into the sandwich box, popping a strawberry into her mouth and then snapping the cookie in half, taking half into her hand. You glared up at her, reaching out to steal the food back, but she was far taller with much longer arms.

Now that she was towering over you, you became distracted by a whole different type of hunger. She was wearing one of your favorite outfits today. You found it hard to describe as most of her outfits were of the same color palette, but it was a beautiful beige color that just seemed to fit every curve just right. As you stared, Larissa pushed the bit of cookie into her mouth, winking at you. Larissa noticed the way your eyes lingered around her hips and took a step back before you could reach out and pull her close, “Oh no you don’t. It is the middle of a school day, no less.”

You let out a laugh, knowing that she was practically reading your mind, “I didn’t say a word!”

“I haven’t a clue at how your mind works anymore. One moment you are hungry, then self-deprecating, then…” She paused for a moment, checking to see if there could be any students around, her final word was spoken with a hushed tone, “…horny.”

“An astute observation.” Your response was sarcastic as you shifted your desk chair forward, putting a knee between Larissa’s and your hands came to rest on her hips. She didn’t move away this time, rather she seemed to lean into your touch. You gazed up at her, mesmerized once again by her beauty. Would this become a regular occurrence throughout your pregnancy or is this just a fact of life dating Larissa Weems?

Her hands gently came to rest on your cheeks, her eyes glancing up quickly to the clock on the back wall, checking the time before she engaged in anything with you. With seven minutes until your next class, Larissa gave herself the opportunity to lean down and press a kiss to the top of your head, her words coming softly, “I will see you at home… Perhaps we can have a little more fun then.”

You couldn’t hide your look of disappointment when she moved away from you, wishing you could have ended the workday early just to head home with Larissa and spend the rest of the day wrapped up with her. You would simply just have to wait. Perhaps you could send her a few texts later during the last few hours of the work day just to mess with her.

“I’m expecting you to live up to that promise.” You laugh, watching her gather her things in one hand and take one step closer, taking your face in her free hand and pressing a kiss to your lips.

“Anything you wish.”

Link to Chapter 25

[angel-inrealtime]

November F1c Prompts Day 20

Day 20 - Umami (savouriness, the essence of deliciousness)

“We are not playing monopoly again.” You warn, padding back through to the living room from the kitchen with a fresh bottle of wine. “I thought you and Michael were going to kill each other last time.”

The flat he’s renting in the UK had come fully stocked with a literal war chest of board games, which you’re slowly making your way through.

“That’s because he cheated.” Daniel mutters, shifting once you sit down to settle close to you again. Not for the First time, you stifle a laugh at him in his tracksuit pants and hoodie, blanket from the couch draped over his knees. He is not made for English winters.

“Scrabble!” Blake says triumphantly, putting the box onto the coffee table.

“Yes!” you agree, clapping your hands together.

Daniel groans. “That’s unfair, you and Blake are too good. We don’t stand a chance.”

“Hey, fuck off, I’m going back to uni. You don’t stand a chance, you mean.” Michael throws a pillow at him.

You pluck Daniel’s retaliatory pillow from his hands before it can leave them. “Someone will spill the wine.” You look at Michael pointedly. “Again.”

“That was not my fault.” He argues.

/

Predictably, you and Blake are practically having your own game while Daniel and Michael contribute a word every now and then. You’re pretty sure Daniel has been swapping tiles of his he doesn’t want with yours when he thinks you’re not looking.

“Umami, with a triple word score.”

Daniel frowns. “That’s not a word.”

“It is too!”

“What does it mean then?” He says it triumphantly, like he’s got you, shoving his head against your shoulder.

You nudge his head back, sipping your wine. “It’s like your sense for savoury taste, I think in Japanese it translates to ‘the essence of deliciousness’.”

There’s a beat and then Daniel is cackling. “‘The essence of deliciousness’? That’s fucking beautiful. Can I put that on a shirt? I’m putting that on a shirt.”

[thebeesareback]

Ladies, gents, froglets, the girls, the gays, the theys, and anyone who doesn't fit into these categories: it's time for the Bees random ramblings.

I've been revisiting some children's fantasy books when I can't sleep. It's winter here in the UK and I love a cosy moment. Fantasy books do that really well! The thing is, there's often something lurking underneath the feeling of safety.

For example, in The Hobbit, the little squad are hiking up a mountain during a storm. They're wet, tired, hungry and cold, and the weather is so bad that giants have appeared and started throwing rocks at each other. It's the sort of thing which would make anyone feel pretty miserable. Filli and Killi find a nice cave, and so everyone goes and shelters with them. The mood of the new scene is much nicer. Their ponies start to dry off and gently steam (this is a real thing), they spread their wet clothes out to dry; have something to eat; then lie on the floor in blankets and get out their pipes. Gandalf uses magic to turn their smoke rings into different colours. It's absolutely charming! I would love this! I appreciate being inside when there's a dramatic storm outside!

Unfortunately, Bilbo wakes up to see goblins stealing their ponies, and he and the dwarves are all dragged off to a place which feels like hell. It's very nightmarish and everyone thinks they're going to be eaten.

Lucy, in The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe goes through the eponymous wardrobe and finds herself in a snowstorm. She's rescued by Mr Tumnus the fawn, and ends up having tea with him, safe and warm in his little cottage. The food and drink are tasty; she watches the fire and sees the flames dancing; and Mr Tumnus gets out his harp and plays a tune. Like the cave scene, it's really charming and comforting. I would love to go for tea with Mr Tumnus.

Oh, except he betrayed Lucy and the White Witch's agents are on their way to kill her.

My theory is that, as Tolkein and Lewis fought in WW1, they found it hard to feel safe and knew that places which appeared friendly and welcoming were often traps. A lot of people have noticed how both WW1 and WW2 are clearly in Tolkein and Lewis' minds as they wrote, but I just wondered how frequently they were surrounded by things which once made them feel safe, yet were unable to truly relax.

But death of the author or whatever.

[a-forbidden-detective]

The snowball fight

—

Written for @flashfictionfridayofficial with the prompt #FFF235 Little Pink Houses

Fandom: Kamonohashi Ron no kindan suiri / Ron Kamonohashi’s Forbidden Deductions

* Saw two men playing on the street throwing snowballs at each other and suddenly I had the urge to write a RonToto fic situated in London after they visited the Scotland Yard’s Crime Museum. They looked like they were having fun these two… then the taller one attacked the other and they vanished. Got carried away as the word count surged to 995!!! (Beware of the spoilers if you don’t or haven’t read the manga.)

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There are six different ways to describe snow in Japanese, thought Toto. Of all those six, the sight of snow-covered streets reminded him of the untouched yuki-boshi. He grabbed a handful of lily-white snow from someone’s hood of a car and like a ritual began to mould it in a way Toto knew by heart as a small child in Tokyo.

The reminiscences brought a smile to his face, but right now he couldn’t be much happier spending New Year’s Eve in London with none other than Ron. It was not on Toto’s bucket list more than a year ago, yet here he was in the UK capital enjoying the sights with his friend, discovering its nooks and crannies away from the touristic places.

Accompanying the forbidden detective had been natural now for the Tokyo police officer after all what they had been through. To witness his friend donning a toga to officially graduate from the BLUE Academy was already a privilege.

The gruelling events in the late October at the cruise ship and the murders that followed were enough to be a good excuse to stay away from Japan at the moment, to give them the chance to heal from physical wounds and mental exhaustion, thus, to be alone together far away from his hometown.

Toto couldn’t help asking himself the real score between the two of them, but somehow there was something that was hindering him to take action.

It was only 4:45 pm, but already dark when they left the New Scotland Yard’s Black Museum. The snow on his black gloves started to melt. Ron looked at him fondly and was still shaking from excitement of meeting some of the Scotland Yard staff members that he learned to know as a student at the BLUE.

The immaculate white flakes blanketing the whole city still fascinated Toto even if he was already in his early 30s. The streets that they walked turned magical. Strange that the weather stopped the outpouring of a crowd where they were. They were almost alone except from one or two bystanders.

“Come to think of it, I don’t think it is more different than in Tokyo. My grandmother sent me pics from their balcony. The whole landing was full of snow as well,” Toto showed several pictures taken by his grandma.

“Whoah those!” Ron just exclaimed.

Toto wondered what made his friend astounded.

The image of little pink houses emerged from his view that he himself was dumbfounded seeing the landscape.

“Beautiful, isn’t it?” Toto said. The images were taken during the sunset. The reflection of the sun’s weird angle against the fresh snow decked on the roofs rendered the whole scenery with a pinkish hue.

Ron happily glanced at it again only to smack Toto’s face with snow. It took the police officer by surprise, but he was ready to avenge himself.

“You devil!” Toto scooped more snow from the parked cars and threw them nonstop at his friend who did the same thing.

Soon enough there was a barrage of flying snowballs in the air to and fro. The two behaved like children and the almost empty streets of London became their oyster.

Ron then got a hold of Toto’s coat collar and without further ado kissed him full on the lips as he poured bits of snow inside his shirt.

Stunned both from the amorous action and the cold temperature that engulfed Toto, removing his gloves, he then gripped Ron’s face to ultimately kiss him back. To hell with the melting ice running down his spine. The world stopped as Toto sucked Ron’s tongue and licked the insides of his mouth.

Laughing, Ron struggled to let go as he dragged Toto to an alley where no one could see them at all. Leaning on the abandoned store window, he then proceeded to kiss Toto again whilst taking off his scarf then lifted Toto’s shirt wiping away the wetness on his friend’s back.

After the initial contact, the younger man caressed his friend’s cheeks and kissed his forehead, nose, ears, the top of his head and back to his lips again.

“Apologies, Isshiki-san, it is taking you so long to get your act together.” Ron whispered, his voice two octaves lower than usual. His long hands travelled from Toto’s neck down to his lower back that made Toto shiver.

“Cunning devil…” Toto could only say as he smiled and gave in to Ron’s tender hands.

“So that settles the score, ne?”

Toto nodded and placed his head on Ron’s chest. With the forbidden detective’s fingers behind Toto’s back, Toto wished they could stay like that forever away from the madness of the M Family and gruesome crimes in Japan. But he knew that it would make his now lover sad and useless. Ron loved and lived for sleuthing, puzzles and crimes.

His phone beeped, a message incoming.

Toto searched for his left pocket where his iPhone was.

“Not yet, Toto…”

The messenger was insistent. Ron loosened up his hold on Toto so the latter could maneuver his hand.

“Oh shit! It is Spitz! He and his companion are already at the pub,” Toto couldn’t stand it when he forgot something, but on the other hand, he couldn’t pass up this moment with Ron.

“Ack! Oh well, we must take our leave, I guess…” Ron didn’t give any sign of moving at all.

“It is Spitz, Ron. He promised us to give more information concerning the M Family,” Toto looked at his friend-lover, who reached for his nose to stroke gently.

“Ron, we have to go now.”

“All right. But remember, we aren’t done here yet,” Ron seized Toto’s hand and placed it on his crotch. It made Toto’s eyes bulge.

“Oh my god, I created a monster…”

“Heh,” Ron showed Toto his winning smile.

Ron and Toto then tread the path leading them to Soho holding hands to meet up with their friend.

~ fin ~