#bookstore!AU

[lilyan-art]

I am terrible at keeping the socials updated 🤣 I had issues with the size of this gif so I just…pretended this account didn’t exist for weeks 🫥

Basically my first attempt at frame-by-frame animation, I learned a lot doing this!

From the bookstore!AU, as always from @acrookedtouchofficial discord server, an amazing place filled with amazing people 🥰

[spaceman-earthgirl]

Supercorptober Day 28: Book

ao3 fic link. ao3 series link. - Thanks to @itistakingover for this idea!

Kara knows she’s in trouble. She can see it as soon as she walks into their apartment and sees her sister sitting at the dining table, book closed in front of her.

“We need to talk.”

There’s no preamble, Alex getting straight to the point, which means Kara’s in even more trouble than she thought.

It also means there’s no getting out of this.

“I can explain,” Kara starts, even though she can’t. Or, well, she can, but Kara knows Alex won’t be taking any of her excuses, not this time.

“Kara, this has to stop,” Alex continues, ignoring her. “We can barely afford rent and food and all the bills that are piling up and you brought another book. You promised you wouldn’t.”

Kara swallows. She thought she’d hid the book better, but Alex must have found it as it’s sitting on the table between them.

Kara’s glad she took a bag to the bookstore today, Alex would be extra upset if she knew that in Kara’s bag is a new book she bought less than half an hour ago.

Kara opens her mouth but Alex cuts her off. “And don’t you dare tell me you had to buy it.”

“But Alex, I did!” It’s really not her fault, she wishes Alex could see that. “I was at the bookstore and Lena was there and I had to buy it or else she’ll wonder why I was in the store again.”

“Oh my God, Kara,” Alex groans, head falling forward, knocking against the table.

Kara, alarmed for a moment, rushes to her sister’s side. “Are you okay?”

Alex sits up, levels Kara with a glare. “You have to stop spending all our money on books. We all know you have a crush on Lena, we all know that’s the only reason you go to her store so often. So please, for the love of God, just ask her out so you’ll stop buying so many books.”

“No, that’s not-“

“Kara, please, just don’t. Yes, I know she’s pretty and I know she’s smart and funny and whatever else you have to say about her. That’s no reason to spend all our money. All you need to do is ask her out and then you’ll get to see her whenever you like and we won’t get kicked out of our apartment because we can’t pay the rent.”

“I...” Kara bites her lip. “What if she says no?”

Alex looks surprised because yes, maybe it is rather obvious that Kara has a crush on Lena, but this is the first time she’s admitted it. Or is close to admitting it anyway.

“Trust me,” Alex says. “She won’t. You’ve both got it as bad as each other.”

Alex has said this before too but Kara has never listened, because there’s no way it’s true. Kara is in way too deep with a girl she only knows because she visits her bookstore so often. To Lena, Kara is probably just another customer who spends a lot of money, which means being nice to her is good for business.

“So,” Alex says, pulling Kara from her thoughts. “You promise you won’t buy any more books? And this time actually mean it?”

“But what if she-“

“No.” Alex cuts her off. “That’s it, come with me.”

Kara is alarmed as Alex abruptly stands and grabs onto her arm. Kara stumbles a little as she follows her sister.

“Where are we going?” Kara asks as Alex drags her out of the apartment.

“We’re going to the bookstore so you can ask Lena out.”

Kara stops on the spot, pulling Alex to a stop too. “No.”

Alex turns and tugs on her sisters arm again. “Yes. It’s either this or we’re going to starve because I know the next time you see her you’ll want to buy another book and we just can’t afford that.”

Considering that that’s exactly what happened this morning, Alex might be right.

“But,” Kara starts, except that only excuse she can think of not to do this is because she’s terrified. Which is a pretty good excuse in Kara’s opinion.

“No buts. Please, we need that money.”

Kara sighs, Alex is right.

“What do I even say?” Kara asks, starting to walk again on her own, surprising Alex again.

“Hi Lena, I’ve been in love with you forever and I want to have your babies.”

This time, Kara glares at Alex.

Alex laughs. “Ok fine. You just say, ‘Hi, I really like you, do you want to go out for coffee sometime?’”

“That sounds too easy.”

“It is that easy,” Alex agrees, though Kara still doesn’t believe her.

Kara stops again once they arrive at the store, standing outside, too scared to go in knowing what Alex wants her to do. And she wants to do it too, has dreamed of this, of actually telling Lena how she feels, or Lena asking her out, any version that it goes well and she gets to be with Lena.

Kara sees Lena through the window and despite the fact that Lena is talking to a customer, she happens to look up and catches Kara’s eye through the window. Lena gives her a small smile and wave and something in Kara’s chest loosens.

This is Lena, who always makes time to chat with her in store, who is always nice and friendly and is kind to everyone she meets. Lena, who is always willing to help Kara with any book request, no matter how silly it is and always makes her feel so warm and welcome.

Lena, who she is in love with and maybe does want to have her babies, but she’ll never admit that out loud.

“Go on,” Alex urges and Kara takes a deep breath before she steps through the door. The bell jingles above her head and even that is comforting in its familiarity.

Alex follows her in and Kara is glad her sister is here, even if she’s probably just going to embarrass herself.

Alex wanders off, making herself look busy looking at books but Kara stands awkwardly in the middle of the store, unsure what to do.

It’s a few minutes before Lena is finished with the customer and then she immediately makes her way towards Kara.

“Kara, what a nice surprise. Was one book not enough for you today?”

Kara shoots a quick look at her sister and finds Alex glaring at her, so obviously she’d heard and hadn’t figured out Kara had already bought a book today.

Lena catches the look, glancing between them. “Is everything okay?”

Kara shakes her head, and then just goes for it. Honestly is good, right? “No, Alex is upset I keep buying books.”

Lena looks confused. “Is that a bad thing?”

Kara bites her lip. “Yes, when I’m spending all our rent money on books.”

Lena still looks confused. “Oh I-“

Kara cuts her off. “Let me explain?”

Lena pauses and nods.

“It’s not the buying books part that is bad, it’s that I’m buying books I don’t need because I come in here just to see you but use the books as an excuse.”

Lena’s eyes widen. “Oh.”

“And I have genuinely enjoyed all the books I’ve brought from you, but the main reason I come in here most days is just to see you.”

Lena smiles. “I know.”

“What?”

“I mean, I did think you wanted the books and I wouldn’t have let you buy them if I’d known you were spending your rent money. But I did know you were coming in here just to see me.”

“Oh.” It’s now Kara’s turn to not know what to say. “Is that okay?” Kara finally asks when the silence stretches too long.

“Is what okay?”

“Is it okay that I come here just to see you?”

Lena nods. “I look forward to your visits. Every time the bell jingles, I hope it’s you.”

Kara bites her lip, her heart skipping in her chest. This isn’t how she saw today going at all. “Does that mean if I ask you out for coffee, you’ll say yes?”

Lena presses her lips together, her cheeks pink as she nods. “I’d really like that.”

“I really like you,” Kara replies, the words tumbling from her mouth without much thought but as soon as she’s said them, she regrets it immediately. What if that’s not what Lena meant, what if she-

Kara’s thought process is derailed when Lena reaches out and takes her hand, warm fingers slipping between her own.

“I really like you too,” Lena says, voice soft and eyes bright.

Kara could spend forever looking into Lena’s eyes, trying to figure out exactly what colour they are.

“Thank God.” 

Both Kara and Lena startle at the interruption, Alex suddenly beside them.

“Sorry to break this up but Lena, you have a customer.”

Lena’s cheeks go properly red this time as she turns and sees a customer at the counter.

Lena turns back to Kara. She takes her hand, pulls a pen out of her pocket and scribbles something on Kara’s hand. 

“I have to go, but text me?” Lena asks, shy again like they didn’t just both admit they like each other. Of course, Kara isn’t going to say no.

Kara nods as she watches Lena go and help the customer. She looks down at her hand and sees Lena’s number written in blue ink, a little heart beside it.

Alex bumps her side. “Told you.”

Kara grins. “Thank you.”

“It was entirely selfish, I just wanted you to stop spending money,” Alex says but Kara knows that’s not true. It’s definitely partly true but by the way Alex is smiling at her, Kara knows her sister is happy for her too.

Kara links her arm with Alex’s. “Donuts to celebrate?”

Alex laughs. “At least now you can go back to spending all your money on food.”

Kara waves at Lena as she leaves, Lena sending her another small smile that makes Kara warm from the inside. She can’t wait for their first date.

[thesongistheriver]

The blond bloke in the suit swallowed heavily. “I’m looking for a Mr. Gaius White.”

Merlin’s mouth twisted. “That was my great-uncle, but he passed away. I’m the shop proprietor now.” He straightened to his full height and held out his hand. “Mer—”

Blond Bloke cut him off. “I’ll need some proof of that.”

Face scrunching up in distaste, Merlin snapped, “Why? Who the hell are you, anyway?”

Reaching into his breast pocket, Blond Bloke pulled out a business card. “My firm—er, my father’s firm—handled all the business legalities for Dragon Egg Books. My father has sent me to this ridiculous backwater to ensure our association continues.”

“It’s basically a suburb, not the bloody hinterlands, you posh tosser,” Merlin muttered, looking at the card.

The bookstore Merthur AU has begun!

[jameskinniesrise]

@jegulus-microfic | april 29 | prompt: fixate | words: 237

Remus couldn't understand why James had suddenly become so fixated on books. He was in and out of the bookstore almost every day. It first started on Lily's birthday. James had forgotten to buy her a gift and just went to a random bookstore near her house. Since then, Remus has noticed James buying a new book every week. James hated reading, so why would he go to a bookstore so often?

James was late for his shift again, so Remus decided to text him. Then he realised he could see James' location on Snapchat. Sirius had forced Remus to download it, but it had one good use. He could track Sirius and James.

Upon checking James' location, he realised that James was at that bookstore. Again. Remus decided to go to this bookstore himself. What was so great about it?

Remus reached the bookstore and peeked through the window, and there was James, chatting with the cashier. The cashier had short black hair and grey eyes, kind of like Sirius'. He smirked at something James had said. Remus then realised what was going on. James fancied the cashier. No wonder he's been emptying his wallet on books for the last three weeks.

Just as Remus was about to leave, he noticed James lean in for a kiss. He sighed with a smile and walked back to his car. James probably wasn't going to make his shift that evening.

[scholliski]

the genuine upset I feel when I remember that andrew is described as being ‘allergic to books’ … like wdym he’s not a glasses-wearing, tea-drinking bookworm?

[fiapartridge]

so that fic about another guy flirting with hazel got me thinking…. let’s turn it up a notch 😌

somebody from another team flirts with hazel WHILE she and beckett are officially dating 🤭

robbers -> beckett + hazel 🏹🦢💌

"she says, babe, you look so cool..." robbers, the 1975

pairing: beckett sennecke x hazel summary: when one of the players from the san jose sharks tries to flirt with hazel, beckett goes haywire... warning(s): lots of cursing LOL, fighting, blood (brief) author's note: i feel like beckett wouldn't hurt a fly but anything for his girl 💋 wc: 1.12k

Beckett didn’t like a lot of things in life: long division, beans on toast, spam calls from stupid telemarketers, and, oh, yeah, guys trying to take his fucking girl. 

It was a Friday night and the Anaheim Ducks were face-to-face with the San Jose Sharks. The score was 0-2 after the first period. The Ducks hustled down the tunnel, anger laced in their blood as they tried their hardest not to break a twig. It was the first game of the fucking season and so far, they were blowing it. The cheers from the crowd died down after the first Sharks’ goal, and even more so after the second. Everyone’s energies were draining—their confidence, too.

And the cherry on fucking top? Quentin Musty was flirting with Hazel—Beckett’s Hazel. He watched them talk outside the locker rooms; the way he stood next to her, his arm beside her head as she nodded along to something he said. It made Beckett’s blood boil. It should be him who’s all over her right now; who’s receiving her attention, her tiny smiles, and blushy cheeks.

He wanted to bash Quentin into a wall—especially when he watched the boy’s hand slowly move to her hair, sweeping a strand of hair from her face.

“Bro, get the fuck off of her!” Beckett shouted, walking towards them as Hazel immediately stepped back. 

To be honest, Hazel was tired of Quentin talking to her the entire time, only standing there so she could see Beckett before the intermission was over. She nodded absentmindedly to all of his stupid advancements, hoping that he would take a hint and leave her the fuck alone. And when his hand touched her hair, she immediately felt her body recoiling, moving to step away from the guy. 

The boys from both teams rushed out of their locker rooms to watch the scene, Mason scrambling to grab Beckett before he could throw himself at Quentin. Mason’s arms wrapped around Beckett, Trevor coming in to help as they dragged him away from the other boy.

“Chill, bro,” Mason said, throwing Beckett into his stall. “Leave that shit on the ice, okay? You want to fight him? Do it over there.”

Trevor stood in front of the fuming boy. His hands rested on his hips. “What the fuck even happened, man?”

“He was fucking out there flirting with Hazel,” he exclaimed angrily. Now he was upset over the terrible period and this stupid ass situation. “I’m not gonna let him talk to my fucking girlfriend like that.”

Trevor shook his head. “Take the high road, alright? He’s just tryin’ to get under your skin. Just—don’t get mad at Hazel, okay? She looked a little shook up after that.”

Becket sighed, resting his head back against his stall before closing his eyes. “Fuck. D’you think she hates me?”

Leo joined the small crowd forming around Beckett’s stall, a cool towel wrapped around his neck as he shook his head. “Nah. For some reason, that girl could never hate you,” he chuckled.

Before everyone knew it, intermission was over, and they were back on the ice for the second period. Beckett stood on right wing, Trevor center, and Ryan Strome on left wing. And luckily for Beckett, Quentin Musty stood right next to him as a left winger. 

“Got a little heated back there, huh, Becky?” Quentin smirked during the faceoff. 

“Just get off my girl,” Beckett said, brushing him off. The only thing he cared about was that fucking puck. He wasn’t going to let a guy named Musty get to him.

“Your girl?” Quentin chuckled. “Not what she was saying when I was on her a couple minutes ago.”

Beckett shook his head, his grip tightening on his stick. Take the high road, alright? He’s just tryin’ to get under your skin.

“Maybe next time,” Quentin looked at Beckett. “Put that bitch on a tighter leash.”

Throwing his stick, Beckett lunged at Quentin. His fist striking directly at his jaw as the crowd gasped, not expecting a fight to happen before the puck was even in play—especially not a fight from Beckett fucking Sennecke.

Hazel stood up from her seat in the media room where she was working on graphics for the Ducks’ Instagram story. She watched from the TV that hung in the corner of the room, Beckett’s fist repeatedly hitting Quentin’s bloody face as the referees tried their best to break them apart. Her heart beat rapidly as she ran out the room and towards the tunnel. Everyone watched her run through the halls, trying to get to Beckett.

And when she saw him, a bloody lip and a stupid smile on his face, she wanted to rip him to fucking shreds. “Beckett,” she called, his head whipping to face her. “What the fuck just happened?” 

He walked slowly to her, grabbing her hand as she rolled her eyes. “He was talking shit about you, okay?”

“Yeah, well now you’re thrown out of the game,” she scoffed. “This is the first game of the fucking season. Now everyone’s gonna think you’re fuckin’ Matt Rempe or some shit.”

“Hey, I’m tall, but I’m not that tall,” he chuckled.

“Beckett—”

“I know, I know,” he sighed, rubbing his forehead. “It was just—the fucking things he was saying. I couldn’t let him get away with it, okay? Not when,” he stammered. “Not when they’re about you.”

Sighing, Hazel anxiously met his gaze. “What’d he say? ‘Cause I swear to you, I didn’t say anything to him, okay? I didn’t even want him next to me! He just kept getting closer,” she panicked, thinking he would be mad at her.

“Hey, hey,” he smiled. “I’m not mad at you. I know you didn’t do anything. Thank you for not doing anything,” he whispered. Pausing, he sighed again. “He called you a bitch. ‘Said I should hold you on a tighter leash.”

Hazel gulped, her heart plummeting. “Oh.” No one’s ever said that about her. Did he think she was some sort of slut?

Noticing her pull away from him, he held onto her tightly, pressing her against his chest. His chin rested on her head as they swayed side to side. “Hey, no one thinks anything bad about you, especially me, okay? It’s okay.”

Looking up at him, Beckett held her cheeks, his thumbs wiping the tears from her eyes. “Thanks for sticking up for me” she smiled softly. “You looked really cool by the way. I kinda dig the cuts,” she smirked, brushing over his wounded face. 

“I should get into more fights then, huh?”

“If you get into another fight I will personally beat your ass,” she grinned before sighing. “Thank you.”

He smiled, pressing a gentle kiss to her hand. “Anything for the princess.”

taglist! @bunbunbl0gs @crazy4smitty

[strnilolover]

ditzy!reader and player!chris first date 😔

i could definitely see player!chris taking ditsy!reader to a place she’s been wanting to go to for a while because he just likes seeing her happy.

(i suck at writing in third person, so y’all are getting second person)

Your hands nervously smoothed over your outfit, your frame standing in front of your mirror. Earlier in the day, chris had asked you if you wanted to go somewhere with him. And you hesitantly agreed, but were happy he asked you to go somewhere.

When you felt like you were ready, you made your way out your front door — quickly locking the door. When you turned back around, chris was already there. His body leaning against his passenger side door.

“There ya are angel — thought you bailed on me last second.” He said, smiling as he opened the car door for you. You laughed nervously, ducking your head as you tucked yourself into his car. “Sorry… I just… um…” your words tampering off.

“Relax,” he said, leaning down in the doors frame as he watched you buckle yourself. “no need to be nervous, you know me.” he stated before closing your door and swiftly making his way to the drivers side.

Once you were on the road, you couldn’t help but wonder where he was taking you. You wanted to ask, but every time you opened your mouth, your nerves got the best of you. After a few minutes of silence, chris glanced over at you, grinning.

His hand reached over, placing it on top of your own before giving it a gentle squeeze. “You can ask where we’re going, you know.” You flushed, tucking a strand of hair behind your ear. “Oh… right. Where are we going?”

He chuckled, tapping his fingers on the steering wheel. “It’s a surprise. But I think you’ll like it.”

He drove a little longer, the city lights giving way to quieter streets until he pulled up to a cozy little bookstore nestled between two cafes. You eyes widened in surprise, a small gasp escaping your lips as you recognized it.

“This… this is a place i’ve been wanting to come to for a while.” you exclaimed, turning to him, your eyes sparkling. “How did you…?”

He shrugged, trying to look casual, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his lips. “You might’ve mentioned it once or twice. Figured it was worth checking out.” he said, getting out of the car as he made his way to your side, opening the door for you.

The bookstore was small and dimly lit, shelves packed tightly with books of all kinds, from fantasy novels to historical memoirs. The smell of old paper and coffee filled the air, instantly making you feel at home. You glanced at him, still in awe, and he just nodded toward the door.

“After you, darlin’”

Inside, you wandered through the aisles, fingers brushing over the spines of books. You stopped at a shelf lined with fantasy novels, picking up one you’d been wanting to read. You turned it over in your hands, momentarily lost in the synopsis.

When you looked up, chris was leaning against the shelf, arms crossed, watching you with a smirk. “You’re seriously just going to read? Didn’t know you’d ditch me for a book.” he said, faking a pout.

You blushed, hands fumbling with the book. “No! I just… I really like this one. I’ve been wanting to read it for a while.”

“Then get it,” he said, like it was the simplest thing in the world. When you hesitated, he rolled his eyes and snatched it out of your hands, heading toward the counter. “Consider it a gift, yeah?”

Your cheeks flushed a deeper pink. “Chris, you don’t have to—” He gave you a look, cutting you off. “I know. But I want to.” and you stopped, figuring he probably wouldn’t budge.

While he bought the book, you wandered toward the small coffee shop section at the back, feeling her heart race. You weren’t sure if it was because you had never been here before or if it was because he had brought her here. Chris, who you thought barely listened when you rambled about books, had actually remembered something you’d mentioned in passing. It was more thoughtful than you’d ever expected.

When he returned, book in hand, he nodded toward the coffee counter. “Go on, order whatever you want.” you opened your mouth to protest, but he gave you another ‘don’t start’ look and quickly dropped it.

So you picked a simple drink, something warm and comforting, and you sat down in the corner by a small round table, surrounded by shelves of books on all sides. You took a sip, feeling the warmth spread through you, and looked up to find chris already looking at you.

“So,” he said, leaning back, his arms folding behind his head. “have you been wanting to come here for a while? i know you mentioned it like, oh i don’t know, a billion times.” He teased, smirking.

You nodded, glancing around. “I saw this place on a post a friend of mine made… it looked so wonderful and it honestly doesn’t disappoint.” You admitted.

He chuckled. “I can tell. You look like you’re in heaven.” You looked down, blushing. “I just… really like books. They’re like… little worlds, you know? Places you can escape to.”

“Can’t say I get it, but… I don’t mind seeing you happy,” he said, his usual teasing tone gone. You glanced up, “So, what’s that one about?” he asked, nodding toward the book he’d just bought you.

You started to explain, describing the plot with growing excitement, your nerves forgotten. You were so absorbed in telling him about the story that you didn’t notice the way he was watching you. His usual smirk was now a smile. Something that only you really did to him.

As you finished, you glanced up, catching his gaze, and felt your face grow warm again. “Sorry… I didn’t mean to go on like that.” He shook his head, a faint smile still lingering. “Nah, it’s cute. Always seeing you get so excited over some books.”

You looked down, biting you lip to hide your smile. “I’m just… really happy you brought me here. I didn’t think… I mean, I didn’t think you’d even remember.”

He shrugged, trying to play it cool. “Just because I don’t spend all day reading doesn’t mean I don’t listen. Besides,” he added, leaning in closer, “I like seeing you like this.”

Your breath caught, heart pounding as you managed a soft, “Thank you… really.” He reached over, taking the book from your hands and flipping through the pages casually. “Guess I’ll have to read it, see what all the fuss is about.”

You laughed nervously, unsure if he was serious or just teasing. “I… think you might actually like it.” He smirked, setting the book down, his gaze steady on you. “Maybe I will. Maybe you’ll just have to tell me more about it.”

You stayed a while longer, sipping coffee and talking in quiet voices, surrounded by books and the warm, cozy ambiance of the shop. When it was time to go, he held the door open for you, walking you back to his car. You hugged the book close to your chest, a smile lingering on your face as you drove back in comfortable silence.

When you got home and reached your doorstep, he turned to you with that familiar smirk.

For a second, you thought he might lean in — and when he did, you froze. Quickly putting your hand up to rest on his chest. He stopped, a puzzled look coming across his face — but he just smiled. Opting to take your hand and press a small peck to it.

“s’okay angel.” he said as he pulled back. When he turned to walk away, he looked back at you. “see ya tomorrow, yeah?” and at that, all you did was nod.

© strnilolover

[ghost-n-butteredtoast]

Dimitrescu Books

Chapter 47 <<Link

They Didn't Believe Me

“After Miranda, I decided to keep any relationships private until I knew they were worth sharing with you girls. It is not until now, being with Jessica that I felt I had found anyone worthy of sharing my personal life with, sharing what means most to me in this world, the three of you!”

Cassandra shook her head. “So you kept secrets–”

“I would hardly consider keeping my affairs pre-Jessica to myself as keeping secrets,” Alcina interrupted. The matriarch set her jaw and collected what poise she had left before continuing. “But yes, I thought introducing my young and impressionable daughters to what only amounted to nothing more than–” Alcina pursed her lips, trying to choose her words carefully in front of her youngest.

Dani rolled her eyes. “ Sex , mother. Just say se–”

[lilyan-art]

Clothes swap 🥰

from A Crooked Touch bookstore!AU

(as always, from @acrookedtouchofficial ‘s discord server)

This one is very fluffy and makes me extremely weak

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

Off the Page 2

Warnings: non/dubcon and other dark elements. My username actually says you never asked for any of this.

Characters: skinny!Steve

Part of the Bookstore AU

My warnings are not exhaustive but be aware this is a dark fic and may include potentially triggering topics. Please use your common sense when consuming content. I am not responsible for your decisions.

As usual, I would appreciate any and all feedback. I’m happy to once more go on this adventure with all of you! Thank you in advance for your comments and for reblogging.

You take a page out of Maria’s book and sleep on the train. The night at the hotel wasn’t long enough. By the time you ate, you were too tired to enjoy the fancy tub and your alarm woke you well before you were ready. As your stop comes, you’re still groggy and barely ready for your evening meet and greet. 

Isn’t this the dream? Running yourself ragged as a bestselling author? Seeing all the fans who love the words that you wrote? Who see themselves in the characters you created? So much a dream that you feel as if you’re falling asleep again. 

Wake up! You splash water over your face in the bookstore bathroom. It’s not glamourous. You have the small space to refresh before you face the masses. You hoped for a smaller crowd given the time of day and the lesser known location. How wrong you are; you can hear the buzz of fans through the walls. 

“Hey,” Maria enters without knocking. She’s like that. You and your agent have gotten rather cozy in those last weeks. A bit too much at times. “Almost ready?” 

“Yeah, sorry, I... is this blouse okay?” You ask as you touch the satin, patterned with violets, “I don’t even know why I bought this?” 

“It looks fine,” she assures, “you’re not a writer if you’re not at least a little eccentric, right?” 

“Oh, and what about book agents?” You challenge, “are they all so stylish?’ 

“Of course. We’re the face that sells the tour. All you have to do is smile and sacrifice your hand to carpal tunnel syndrome,” she teases, “just you wait until the interview. That's the heavy lifting.” 

“Interview?” You check yourself one last time in the mirror. 

“Didn’t I mention? The local station wants a sit down before we’re off tomorrow,” she explains, “I said yes. It’s a decent check and good business. Any publicity is good publicity. Publisher signed off on it too so... can’t back out.” 

“Oh, and you were going to tell me when?” 

“Right now,” she shrugs, “come on, your adoring fans are waiting for their elf queen.” 

“Oof, don’t,” you cringe, “you make it sound so lame.” 

“If it was lame, you wouldn’t be here,” she asserts. 

“Suppose you’re right,” you pack your things up into your bag and shove it in the corner. “Alright, I’m ready.” 

You follow her into the hall and through to the main area of the bookstore. It’s been closed early for the event, a meet and greet exclusive to those who claimed the limited one hundred tickets for sale. Each ticket includes the cost of a free signed edition and bookmark. Funny to think you’d once been on the other side of one of these things. The eager beaver reader aspiring to be the star author. 

As you come into sigh of the audience, they cheer. You’re still not used to that either. You wave and smile out at them. The moderator, an employee of the bookshop chain, calls for their attention over the microphone and introduces you. There’s another softer round of applause. 

You take your seat on the stool and let out a breath. You start with the reading. You try not to do the same chapter, instead cycling through your favourites. Some you even know by rote now. 

Then comes the Q and A session. You know all the answers. You find it’s always the same questions. Besides, you created this world, these characters, if there isn’t anything written, then you get to decide. 

A group a giggly women finish asking their questions about the ‘rumoured’ sequel to which you give your PR friendly deflection. After them, you wait for the next person to appear. There’s some scuffling at the microphone as they lower it. You wait patiently and smile at the slender blond man. He’s vaguely familiar. 

“Hi, um, my question is, whether Emeris is truly the promised knight or if he was just in the right place at the right time?” 

You nod as you listen, your thoughts whirring. It’s not an entirely out-there question. It isn’t what he’s asking that gives you pause. You swear you’ve seen him before. 

“Well, we can’t know for sure. I like to think of the promised knight as not a specific person fated from birth but rather a possibility for all. The promised knight is the one who can step up in that time of need and do what it is needed,” you explain. “I hope that makes sense.” 

The man doesn’t speak right away, himself stalling before he can respond, “yes, I guess it does. Thank you.” 

He lingers at the microphone for a moment as he watches you. He clutches a worn copy to his chest tightly. That’s familiar too. 

Strange. You're sure there’s lots of people who double dip. You have to admit you did it once yourself. Sometimes you just need that thrill.  

The blond man steps back and lets the next person ahead of him but he doesn’t go far. He stays close to the queue of people and you feel him staring you down. Everyone is watching you but his gaze just feels so much more intense. You do your best to focus on the person at the microphone. 

Several others ask their questions or just give their praise. The man remains. You can’t shake the sense of him. He’s like a shadow. You don’t know why you’re so aware of him. 

Finally, you finish up and it’s time to announce the special prize. It’s a raffle set up by ticket number. The package isn’t anything special; a collector’s edition, a mug, and some pens that look like quills. The moderator brings up a box filled with slips and you reach inside. You read out the number and the crowd mutters. 

“Me,” a deep voice rings out, a hand popping up from lower down. The blond man steps forward and waves his ticket, “it’s mine.” 

Strange coincidence. You keep your smile plastered on. You don’t need another Maria lecture about your tired moping. You’re handed the prize basket and you carry it down to meet the man. 

“Congratulations,” you say as he meets you at the lip of the low platform. 

“Thank you,” he beams up brightly, “it’s nice to see you again.” 

You try not to show your surprise, “yeah, uh... you too.” You don’t know what else to say. You don’t remember exactly where you saw him and definitely not a name; you hear too many of those to keep track. 

“Really?” He breathes. 

“Er, enjoy your prize. Thank you so much for coming.” 

“Of course. Always. Anytime,” he avows shakily. “’To you, my queen, I bid my blood and breath.’” 

You hesitate. That’s from the book. Emeris proclaims it to the elvish protagonist on her quest to reclaim her stolen homeland. It’s flattering yet slightly unsettling to have it recited to you. 

“Have a good night,” you say gently and turn to walk back across the platform. You’re tired, you need to get out of here. 

[ekingston]

Would you rather have you art or your fic go viral?

gosh golly anon going viral doesn't carry the best of connotations, but as much fun as creating art might be my heart will always be more invested in the things i write. so allow me to ply my wares here for a shameless moment:

Multi-chapters

You & Me & Holiday Wine (M)

The Shape of Soup (M)

One-shots

Be Still My Beating Heart (E)

Penne for your Thoughts (G)

By Way of Wit (M)

Oh Oh Oh (I’m on Fire) (T)

Liar Liar Plants on Fire (G)

Tickled Ink (T)

[childotkw]

I am currently obsessed with the Bookshop au, and sooo many scenes pop up in my head. Current one:

Aurors storming the bookshop, because of rumours and the fact that so many dark wizards and witches are seen around, even the most noble purebloods. There has to be something wrong there.

But… it’s just books. And Harry offering them tea, being pleasantly polite and patient, chatting, asking about the kids, because obviously some of the aurors kids are friends with his godchildren, maybe some have even visited.

They are just so confused because they can’t find anything (because the really dark, forbidden stuff is always ordered and straightly delivered), sure there are some of the darkest things some have seen, but nothing illegal.

And they raid his shop multiple times, but nothing. Each time they get tea, and cookies (they did every possible spell, it’s really just tea and cookies), and they start to like Harry.

So, somehow, the bookshop became a neutral zone, where nobody is allowed to fight, because they would get kicked out. So it’s not weird for an auror to sit straight next to a wanted criminal, and just letting them be.

One auror once tried to arrest someone in the bookshop, but Harry kicked him out and banned every auror until he apologised and promised to never do it again. Said auror got bullied by his colleagues until he did.

And because by now so many people visit him, Harry bought the house next to him (super difficult negotiations, because he almost got it for free from the owner, and that just wouldn’t do), and added a coffee corner to his bookshop, where students come to do their holiday homework, and they always got help from the adults around, wanted criminals could meet their family they hadn’t seen since they were on the run, and the ministry just had to accept that no auror dared to arrest them in there.

Harry's store being Switzerland is honestly the kind of chaos this AU was built for. The aurors accepting that even if he is doing anything illegal they're never going to catch him, so they just join in is 10/10 😂

[dumbasslesbi2]

Let Me Read To You ~ Chapter 5 (Agatha x Rio Bookstore AU)

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4

Summary:

Agatha gets a call from her ex wife, Wanda wanting to see her but Agatha wants nothing to do with her. What will happen when Wanda finds out she's with Rio.

Notes:

DRAMA ALERT!!!!!!!! also some smut tbh.

Agatha was working at the shop while Rio was upstairs writing her new story, sorting and organizing the new shipment of books. All of a sudden she felt her phone vibrate and saw an unfamiliar number. With hesitation she answered it, unsure of who it could be. “Hello?” Agatha questioned, still organizing the books. “Hi Agatha” Wanda said in a loving tone. “What do you want Wanda” Agatha told her in a deadpan expression, already aggravated by the call. “What? I can’t call you? Don’t you miss me?” Wanda questioned, trying to press Agatha’s buttons. “No, I don’t” Agatha told her, still working. “Oh c’mon, don’t you want to see me?” Wanda said, trying to press further. “No and I don’t  need you trying to find out where I am either. I don’t want Nicholas to see you. He’s happy and I don’t want to ruin that” Agatha almost yelled into the phone. She was over this conversation already but didn’t have the heart to end it. “He doesn’t have to see me, I just want to see you baby” Wanda told her in a sickly sweet tone again. “Wanda, you have a husband and two kids. Before me there was Natasha who I should have listened to. Go back to your life Wanda and I’ll go back to mine. Goodbye.” Agatha told her, groaning as she hung up the phone. She got a bottle of wine and some snacks while heading upstairs, she needed Rio. 

Rio heard the door open and she instantly looked up from her computer. “Hi my love, everything ok?” Rio asked as she noticed Agatha’s expression. Agatha said nothing but put all the stuff she had brought on Rio’s desk and instantly took Rio’s chair out and sat on her lap. She hugged Rio and hid her face in her neck. Rio instinctually held Agatha and started rubbing up and down her back. “Sweetheart? What’s wrong?” Rio asked again, giving Agatha’s shoulder a kiss. “She called me. My ex wife” Agatha said, holding Rio closer. “What did she say?” Rio questioned, holding onto Agatha tighter. “She wants to see me but I told her no, that I don’t want to see her” Agatha told her above a whisper. “Mmm, well as long as you didn’t tell her where you moved to I don’t see how she’d find you. Plus if you want we can change your phone number so she doesn’t call you again” Rio said calmly, looking down at Agatha. “Yeah that’s probably a good idea. I just don’t want to deal with her anymore and I definitely don’t want Nicky to see her.” Agatha said with a groan, getting a headache just thinking about the situation. “And she won’t, I won’t let any of that happen my love” Rio told Agatha, caressing her  cheek. “Thank you Rio, I love you” Agatha said to Rio, kissing her on the cheek. Rio took the wine and poured a glass for the both of them. “So besides that, how’s the organizing going?” Rio asked, taking a sip. “It’s going, I got through about half of the new books before Wanda called,” Agatha said, practically gulping down the wine. “That’s good, thank you for doing all that baby.” Rio told her, taking one of her cigarettes and lighting it. “I still find it funny you don’t like organizing books but yet you decorate so well” Agatha said to her, laughing and taking her cigarette. “Because it’s work, if it wasn’t work I would probably enjoy it” Rio told her, blowing her smoke in her face as punishment for taking her cigarette. “God I hate you sometimes” Agatha told Rio, blowing smoke back into her face. “Mmm I think you love me” Rio said in a teasing tone to Agatha. “Maybe” Agatha said, side eyeing Rio. “Do you wanna go get lunch? I wanted to take a break soon anyways” Rio asked, kissing Agatha as she finished Rio’s cigarette. “Yeah, that sounds good,” Agatha told Rio, getting off her lap. 

It was two days later when Agatha had already changed her phone number and everything when Wanda showed up at her front door. She wasn’t home which Wanda thought was odd since she knew Agatha worked from home. She knew if she went looking into the town she would have to find her eventually, especially since it was such a small town. As she went into the more main area of the town she saw the bookstore and decided to check it out. Agatha did always enjoy reading so there was a good fifty fifty chance she would be in there. It was then when Wanda entered that she spotted the couple, flirting behind the register. Agatha had her hands on Rio’s hips and Rio had her hands around Agatha’s neck. “Well well well, no wonder you didn’t want to see me” Wanda told them, her arms crossed against her chest. “Wanda?!? How did you find me?” Agatha exclaimed, still holding onto her lover. “Don’t worry about it, who’s the side chick?” Wanda questioned, getting closer. “Actually I’m anything but the side chick. Also as far as I’m aware you divorced Agatha so why don’t you go ahead and leave like you left her” Rio told her, going around the register. Agatha was too shocked to speak, never expecting Rio to defend her like this. “Just because she’s divorced doesn’t mean we can’t see each other. Also what are you gonna do? Kick me out?” Wanda told Rio, agitated and getting closer to her. “Actually yeah, I will. This is my shop bitch and if you don't leave my girlfriend alone I'll make you fucking regret it.” Rio told Wanda in a dead serious tone, getting closer to her. “ I’d like to see you try,” Wanda said with a scoff but as soon as the words came out, Rio tackled her to the floor. “Rio!” Agatha exclaimed, trying to break up the two.  Agatha tried her best but she could break them up. Rio eventually got up from tackling Wanda and scratching her a bit and grabbed her hair. She dragged Wanda out of the store and kicked her to the sidewalk. “And if I ever see you here again I swear to god I'll kill you myself!” Rio exclaimed, wiping her mouth and shutting the door to her shop. 

She made sure to lock it before looking back at Agatha. “Rio, what the fuck!” Agatha yelled, getting closer to Rio. “Look I know that was stupid but I couldn’t let her-” Rio told her before getting interpreted by Agatha kissing her. “That was so fucking hot” she told Rio after she broke the kiss. “Y-you’re not mad?” Rio asked, taken a back from the whole ordeal. “At first but then I saw the way you took that bitch down and I've never been so attracted to someone in my whole life” Agatha told her, hugging her but letting go once Rio winced. “Aw my poor baby, let me go get some ice while you lay on the sofa” Agatha told her while walking away. “Tell me where you need the ice pack” Agatha asked her, laying down next to her on the sofa. “Just my knee baby, thank you” Rio said while putting the ice pack on her left knee. “Thank you for all that,” Agatha said, kissing Rio’s cheek. “Of course, I'd do it again. Fuck that bitch, she doesn't deserve you” Rio told her, giving her a quick kiss. “I still can't believe she found me somehow” Agatha told her with a scoff. “I'm more pissed about the fact she thought she could have you” Rio told Agatha, placing kisses on her neck. “Mmm, baby you're injured” Agatha said, trying to shift away from Rio. “Don't care, need you” Rio said, getting lower and nuzzling Agatha's stomach. 

She slowly lifted up Agatha's shirt and started kissing her stomach before unzipping her pants. “God you're so perfect my love” Rio told her, nuzzling her thigh and looking up at her. Agatha couldn't help but thread her hand through Rio's scalp. “Mmm not as perfect as you my love” Agatha said almost as a whisper as she slightly pushed Rio to where she wanted her. Rio propped herself up a bit to be able to shimmy down Agatha's pants and panties. She started licking and napping at Agatha's thighs. Agatha couldn't help but whimper and moan, she was practically puddy in Rio's hands. Rio stopped for a moment and started to kiss and nuzzle her bush. “Rio please, I need you” Agatha said, rubbing her hands on Rio's scalp. “What do you need my love? Rio asked, looking up at Agatha. “I need you, need you in me please sweetheart” Agatha told her, moaning at the mess she made her be. “ I'll think about it” Rio told her as she continued to spread and mark up her thighs. “Rio, please!” Agatha exclaimed, trying to grind for any friction but Rio wasn't having any of it. “Who do you belong to?” Rio asked, her breath heavy on Agatha’s pussy. “What?” Agatha questioned, never been asked this before by Rio. “Who do you belong to?” Rio asked again, looking up at Agatha. “You, you! I only belong to you Rio” Agatha began to exclaim, pushing Rio's head closer to her. Rio stopped teasing her and began to suck on her clit. Agatha couldn't help but practically scream from all the teasing Rio had done. “I'm only yours. Only yours Rio. Please don't stop, please!” Agatha plead, practically riding Rio’s face at this point. Rio was eating her out like it was her last meal and began to even pump two fingers into her. Agatha gasped as was shuddering from pleasure at this point. “That's right baby, all mine.” Rio murmured into Agatha's cunt. “Oh god baby! I'm gonna cum!” Agatha started yelling, gripping her hands into Rio's hair. Rio was going to tell her to stop but she was loving the pain. “Oh god Rio! My love, I'm cumming!” Agatha screamed, riding herself out on Rio's face. As soon as Agatha had caught her breath, Rio went back up to kiss her passionately. Agatha couldn't help herself and started licking off her own slick off of Rio's chin. “Mmm maybe I should get you jealous more often, I haven't orgasmed like that in a minute” Agatha told Rio, kissing her. “We can change that if you want” Rio told her snarkily, putting her hand down to Agatha crouch. “Not right now my love, let me take a breather” Agatha told Rio, putting her hand and her wrist. “Also I'm not letting anyone else have you. You're mine, sweetheart” Rio told her, entangling her hand with Agatha's. “Oh trust me, I've been well aware since night one. I've never been so badly marked before” Agatha said with a huff. “Need to let people know” Rio told her, bringing her hand to her face and kissing it. “How's your knee now?” Agatha asked, caressing Rio's face. “Better, especially now that I have you in my arms” Rio told her, giggling and giving Agatha Eskimo kisses. “Come on, let's go home. Nicky's probably waiting for us” Agatha told her, raking her hands through Rio’s hair. “Yes ma'am” Rio told her, giving a fake salute and a kiss on the cheek. Rio got up and went into her upstairs apartment which was now a glorified office when she wasn't home. She read over the last of what she wrote and smiled. She had left off on lady death, admitting her love for the witch and asking for a marriage ceremony. It had Rio thinking if it was finally time to ask Agatha Harkness for her hand in marriage.

[lonely-parrot]

Just you and me

@jegulus-microfic june prompts

Day 18: Date

Word count : 772

Summary: James desperately tries to get Reg on a date, but the poor sap has trust issues/ quick angst, fluffy ending

Regulus has had a lot of fun these last few weeks.

Every day his bookshop is open, at four p.m., James enters the door with a pastry and a coffee in his hand – and most importantly, a sunny smile. And every day he gives them to Regulus, while asking this single question: “hey, wouldn’t you like to go on a date, just you and me?”

And every time, Regulus answers no.

Regulus kind of hates himself sometimes.

Because it’s fun to see James pouts, and it’s fun to see him offer his treat anyway, and to hear him chats Regulus’ ears off until 5 p.m., but he’d like, oh, how he’d like to say yes to James. To say, take me wherever you want, take me however you want, let me forget I can’t trust anyone.

He doesn’t trust people to stay. The only person he trusted with all his heart was his brother and…

He can’t trust.

But James comes back. He asks the question, and when the answer comes, inevitably, he doesn’t stay mad. He talks, he talks. And by the end of his visits, he always buys a book.

“You know,” he says one day to Regulus, who leans closer to him, he can’t help it, he always leans closer to James, “I have bought so many books, that I think I’ll be forced to buy another appartement, just to be able to stack them all up.”

 Regulus is helpless when it comes to James, James Potter since he finally was able to learn the man’s last name, something that shouldn’t have warmed his heart so much.

James comes, again and again, probably ruining himself by the number of books and pastries he bought in a year, and Regulus is stuck in his ‘no’ pattern, and he wants to say yes, but he can’t. He never will be.

And, then, one day, James doesn’t come.

Regulus should have seen it coming. A year of James Potter. A year with the sun had to come to an end, right? Regulus doesn’t deserve the sun. Regulus Black doesn’t deserve good.

But, maybe, James just had to work, that day.

Maybe, because you know, it’s weird for someone to always be free.

Right. That must be that.

It must be, because he doesn’t come the next day either, and he can’t leave Regulus. He can’t. Regulus knows people easily get rid of him. He doesn’t matter to anyone, but James Potter spent one hour of almost every day to talk to Regulus. So, he had to matter at a point? Or was he just a game James got tired of playing?

No. He must be working.

Why hasn’t he said yes? How difficult was it?

Why hasn’t he asked for his phone numbers during all the year they spent side by side?

Maybe he’s dead.

Regulus checks the news, the paper.

No James Potter appears.

“I’m sorry, I should’ve warned you.”

James is here. James. Is. Here. Regulus doesn’t breathe. He’s mad. And relieved; he’s still alive.

“I… I don’t think I can keep up with the asking you on a date thing. It was too much. For me. I’m sorry. I should’ve realised it sooner. But… I still really like you. Maybe, we could be friends? I bothered you for a year and I didn’t even get your number. I’m sorry. Maybe you don’t want me to be your friend. I haven’t been the best human being.”

“Your silence speaks for itself. I’m going.”

He walks towards the door.

“I really would have loved to love you.”

He leaves the shop.

Regulus is alone.

He just had to say yes.

He’s in a movie in a mere second. He runs. It rains.

James is still under it, getting soaked, his eyes are red, and Regulus thinks he’s been crying.

“Yes.”

James’ body freezes.

“I… I want to go on a date with you. You and me. Yes.”

James turns. His messy hair are slack on his head, but he’s still as beautiful as ever.

“Did you say what I heard you say?”

“Yes. James, I have a question for you…”

James looks at him, through his wet glasses.

“Hey, wouldn’t you like to go on a date, just you and me?”

James is crying, but he’s running, not in the opposite direction but towards Regulus. He’s running and he stops a centimetre before colliding into Regulus.

“Yes. Can I hug you?”

Regulus nods, and when James’ arms encircle him, it feels like the world is righting itself up. Regulus breathes for the first time ever, his nose in James’ neck.

“Yes.”

[fiapartridge]

4th of july! -> beckett x hazel 🇺🇸💛✨

pairing: beckett sennecke + hazel summary: hazel introduces beckett to his first fourth of july, filled with hotdogs, fireworks, and of course, kisses... warning(s): kissing, fluff author's note: okay im a little late but i had to write about this LOL also someone requested a little makeout 👀 so i tried my besttt; i might do a hotter one in the future idk -- this one was like cutesy wc: 2.3k

is this really a tradition? —

“There is no way you guys do this on the fourth of July.”

Hazel and Beckett stood around the dining table in Beckett’s apartment, five hotdogs and a tiny American flag sat on the wooden slab in front of them as Beckett questioned the validity of this “apparent” tradition.

“We do it every single year,” Hazel shrugged.

Beckett nodded, eyeing the hotdogs like they were his sworn adversaries. “So, every American tries to eat a hotdog in less than a minute? Like, this is a real tradition?”

She smiled, nodding. “Yes, and you wouldn’t know that because this is your first fourth of July. So, c’mon,” she scooted him closer to the table. “Eat up, it’s tradition.”

And Beckett, being the innocent and oblivious angel he was, dove in headfirst. Hazel set the timer, her fingers trembling with barely suppressed laughter, and watched as he grabbed the first hotdog. He closed his eyes and stuffed the food into his mouth with the confidence of a boy determined to honor a tradition—or the confidence of a boy who wanted to impress the pretty girl he was with. But Hazel’s stomach churned, not from the sight itself—well, yes from that too—but from the absurdity of the situation.

Beckett attacked the hotdog, his jaw working furiously as he chewed. His cheeks puffed out like a chipmunk’s, and Hazel had to press her lips together to keep from giggling. She could see him struggling to chew quickly, his Adam’s apple bobbing as he swallowed. Ketchup dribbled down his chin, and a piece of bun stuck to the corner of his mouth, causing her hand to fly up to her mouth, trying not to gag.

She nearly lost her composure when he started on the second one. Beckett’s eyes were still closed, his face a mask of determination as he forced the second hotdog into his mouth. Hazel’s eyes widened as she watched him stuff the entire thing in, bits of bun and mustard smearing across his face. His fingers, slick with condiments, fumbled with the next hotdog, but he for some reason, perhaps because he’s a hockey player with a girl watching him, didn't give up.

Her stomach twisted in knots—not from nausea, but from the effort of holding back her laughter. Hazel glanced at the timer, watching the seconds tick down agonizingly slowly, her heart pounding with a mix of amusement and a sort of affection for the poor guy. No guy has ever eaten two and a half hotdogs in less than a minute for her.

When he finally managed to swallow the last bite, she couldn’t contain herself any longer. 

“OKAY, OKAY, OKAY! YOU DID IT!” she shouted, barely able to contain her laughter as Beckett put the hotdog down, ketchup smeared all over his once pristine face.

He looked at Hazel, breathing heavily, his hands on his hips. “Every American does this?”

She laughed as she took in his big, sad puppy eyes. Ignoring the mess of hotdog juices and ketchup, she wrapped her arms around him, and he hugged her back instinctively. “No, I’m just messing with you, but this was definitely entertaining to watch,” she said, looking up at him as he slowly broke into a grin.

“Oh, you’re gonna pay for this.”

“Beck–”

Before she could finish, he scooped her up and tossed her onto the plush couch a few feet away. He loomed over her, planting messy, ketchup-flavored kisses all over her face.

“Beckett, I’m gonna gag!” she managed to get out between fits of laughter. Hazel began to cough, making Beckett feel instantly concerned. He sat up, pulling her close, and rubbing her back in slow, soothing circles. His eyes watched hers, cursing himself for putting her in this situation.

But before he could feel too bad, she wiped her ketchup-covered hand across his cheek, smearing it all over his face.

Beckett paused, his mouth wide open in surprise, before scoffing. “I’m gonna give you five seconds,” he declared as Hazel yelped, her laughs bouncing off the walls as she ran off the couch, Beckett chasing after her.

Best 4th yet.

fireworks and kisses —

The beach was littered with Ducks players as Hazel talked with Amanda, discussing all of the questions they had queued for the next coming weeks. 

“We could ask for their skincare routine,” Amanda suggested.

Hazel laughed, watching the boys try to do handstands in the sand. Trevor egged on Beckett, telling the boy he couldn’t do it. In sheer willpower, and not wanting to bruise his ego, Beckett stepped forward, went down on his hands, and tried his best to do a handstand. It looked more like a sad downward dog position.

“They’re all gonna say they just use water,” Hazel replied, thinking back to Will’s interview with Bauer Hockey.

“What if we ask for their celebrity crushes?”

“Already know it: Livvy Dunne, Megan Fox, and Margot Robbie—ask any of them.”

Calling Mason over, Amanda asked him, to which he happily responded with, “The queen, Margot Robbie.”

Hazel’s hand shot up. “Called it!”

Sneaking up behind her, Beckett’s arm snaked around Hazel’s shoulder as he smiled down at the girl. “What’d you call?”

Holding the hand that drooped over her, she smiled proudly. “Mason’s celebrity crush.”

“Oh, Margot Robbie, right?” Hazel laughed upon hearing Beckett’s response as Amanda rolled her eyes.

“Okay, okay. That one doesn’t work,” she sighed.

Staring at Hazel, Beckett smiled. “‘Mind if I steal her for a sec, Manda?”

Sighing, Amanda began walking to the other guys. “Keep her, I need a drink.”

They both laughed as Beckett dragged her closer to the water before plopping down on the sand. Hazel followed, sitting beside him as their knees knocked together. Her head rested on his shoulder as they watched the night sky. There weren't many stars out, not like out in the woods in Washington where Hazel and her family would go out every year for Fourth of July. It was the best place to watch fireworks because you could see the stars, too. It felt special and safe and she just missed her family. She would be lying if she said she wasn’t feeling a bit homesick.

“How’re you feeling’?” Beckett asked, watching the rushing water in front of them.

“I’m okay,” she whispered softly. “Just missing home.” She didn’t have school during the summer, but her work continued during the draft and the development camp, doing more interviews and social media work than ever. This was her first summer without her family and to say she missed them would be an understatement.

Beckett’s heart ached for her. He also got bouts of sadness where he wished he could just be back home, watching movies again with his dad, cooking with his mom, and driving around Toronto with his sister. If he didn’t have Hazel, surely he would have been on the first flight back to Toronto right now.

“Did you facetime them today?” he asked, genuinely curious. He’s met Hazel’s sisters through facetime and Instagram comments. They’re funny and loud and unique—and they argue all the time, but it was hilarious. They felt like a big, close, tight knit family and he couldn’t wait to meet them in person someday.

She sighed. “Yeah.”

“What’d you guys talk about?”

“What they’re doing to celebrate, Marcy’s going to the fourth grade, and,” she stammered, her cheeks growing pink. “You.”

Beckett’s smile grew wider as he gently pinched her side. “Oh, you talked about me?” he teased.

Hazel laughed, rolling her eyes. “Didn’t say if it was good or bad.”

“Oh, well, knowing me, it was probably good.”

Shoving him, he fell into the sand as Hazel chuckled, her smile going from ear to ear. “You’re such a smug piece of shit.”

Beckett laughed, pecking a kiss on her cheek. “If it counts for anything, I’m glad you’re here.”

“Beckett—” Hazel started.

“OKAY, I’M STARTING THE FIREWORKS!” Trevor yelled, a smoldering stick in hand. “GET BACK, GET BACK, GET BACK!” he shouted as everyone laughed at him, yet staying at a safe distance because, well, it’s Trevor. Something bad is bound to happen.

Hazel and Beckett scrambled to their feet, their laughter mingling with the chatter of the Ducks players chirping Trevor. They made their way to a safe distance, watching as Trevor lit the first firework.

The fuze sparked and fizzed, casting an orange glow on the sand. A moment later, the firework shot into the sky, a trail of light streaking upward. It exploded with a loud boom, cascading into a shower of red and gold sparks that illuminated the beach below.

One after another, the fireworks followed, each one better than the last. Green comets burst into shimmering emeralds, blue stars scattered across the pitch black sky, and purple chrysanthemums bloomed in mid-air. 

Hazel watched in awe, her eyes alight with the show ahead. Her homesickness momentarily forgotten. Beckett stood beside her, his arm casually draped over her shoulder, their closeness and the laughter from everyone beside them being another comfort amidst her missing her family.

As the last embers faded into the night, Beckett turned to Hazel, their faces illuminated by the faint glow of the dying fireworks. There was a warmth in his eyes, a mix of safety and love and affection and a thousand promises that she knew he would always keep. There was a sort of “home” feeling she felt with him and everyone else on this beach, like maybe you could be in two places and still be home.

He gently cupped her face with one hand, his thumb brushing against her cheek. “You okay?” he whispered.

She nodded, smiling softly at the boy before whispering, “I’m okay.”

Slowly, he leaned in, closing the distance between them. Hazel’s eyes fluttered shut, her heart racing as she felt his breath against her lips.

Then, finally, their lips met, and it was soft and familiar and sweet. As the seconds ticked by, it deepened, becoming more confident like their lips fit together like a lock, or a puzzle piece. It felt…perfect. 

Beckett’s hand moved to the back of her neck, pulling her closer as she slid her hands to his shoulders, fingers tangling in his hair as she responded eagerly. Their breaths came in quick, heated bursts, the world around them fading in oblivion. The sound of the waves and laughter of their friends were distant memories as they lost themselves in each other. 

Beckett’s hand roamed from her back to her waist, his touch sending shivers down her spine. Hazel’s heart pounded in her chest, her entire being focused on the sensation of Beckett’s lips and the warmth of his hands and the closeness of his body.

As they broke apart, both were breathless, their foreheads resting against each other. Hazel opened her eyes to find Beckett gazing at her with a tenderness that made her heart ache in the best way possible.

“I really like you,” Hazel beamed.

“Next book’s gotta be about us, okay?” Beckett whispered as Hazel laughed.

“Okay.”

They stayed like that for a moment longer, savoring the closeness between them. With a gentle kiss on her forehead, Beckett took Hazel’s hand in his, their fingers intertwining. 

“Come on, Hazy,” he smiled, leading her back to where their friends were still celebrating. “Gotta tell the boys were the next great romcom.”

As they walked hand in hand, Hazel couldn’t help but feel this tightness in her chest—a good tightness. Not just because of Beckett, but because of everything. Because of the world around her, the people around her, the boy next to her. She felt something special here. Something worth staying for.

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[desert-feather]

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From my fic A Novel Encounter!