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taure-annie · 3 months ago

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The Blue Glow

→ premise: What starts as late nights spent helping Paige through heartbreak slowly shifts - until you’re left wondering if friendship was ever the right word. (RoommateAU)

→ word count: 4k

It’s just past two when you hear the key rattle in the front door, followed by the soft creak as it swings open. Paige, your roommate, usually comes home late on Fridays, a little buzzed or maybe high after a night with her teammates or her girlfriend. You’re used to hearing her stumble in, her laughter still lingering from whatever fun she’d been having, always fading into the quiet of the apartment.

You call her name, waiting for her confirmation. She’s the only one with a key, but saying her name and hearing her respond feels safe, like a habit you’ve formed without thinking. Silence. You lean back in your chair, letting your game screen idle as you peer through the small crack in your door.

You wait a moment, letting the silence of the apartment settle around you before it's broken by the unmistakable shuffle of her kicking off her shoes, the soft thud of her door and then steady beat of music seeping from her room.

You turning back to your desktop and unpausing your game. Your fingers move across the key‐ board, killing pixelated monsters and yet still, your mind crawls back to 20 minutes ago, when Paige walked in.

Were you supposed to knock on her door and ask if she was okay? Basic roommate etiquette would assume so, but it's not as though you and Paige were buddy-buddy. Sure, you'd chilled together a few times to catch up on Netflix's latest murder doc and yeah, she'd invited you to one or two of her teammate's afterparties (none of which you'd gone to, instead you offered polite decline that assured she really didn't need to ask you again).

At most, you and Paige were just in each other's orbit. Nothing more than two girls attending the same university who got placed together in an apartment just off-campus.

The clock ticks to 3:15, and finally, the music fades into silence. She’s probably asleep now. You tell yourself to focus on your game, but your gaze drifts to the wall, your thoughts lingering on her room just a few feet away. Honestly, you’re not sure why you’re still awake.

***

You’re unpacking your groceries when you notice her—Paige, sprawled out across the couch like she’s trying to disappear into it. Her hoodie is pulled low over her face, but you can still make out the outline of her eyes, locked on you the moment you glance in her direction.

"You good?" You ask, feeling the need to soften your voice - something in your body tells you to tread carefully.

She yawns, stretches, and when she speaks, her voice is thick with sleep—rougher than usual, like she hasn’t quite woken up. “Yeah, just a bit fucked up.”

There's something in her tone that gives you pause like she's daring you to dig deeper. You hesitate. It sounds bad to say, but you've always liked the unspoken agreement between you two - the comfortable distance, once again, like planets moving in the same orbit but never touching.

You take the bait. "What's up?"

She pushes herself up, so she's now resting on her elbows, “Ari fucking broke up with me."

The two had seemed to be one of the few couples who could go the distance. In the few games you attended, you'd seen her girlfriend always present, aptly draped in a number 5 jersey titled 'Bueckers'. As far as college relationships went, it seemed like love.

"Oh." It's all you manage to say at first, unsure of how to respond. Were you supposed to hug her?

Paige drops back onto the couch, covering her face with her hands. "Yeah, oh."

"And it's final?" You ask, "Cause, it's never really over, over. It's probably -"

"She blocked me," she cuts in, still deep within the recesses of her hoodie. "She probably blocked me the moment I left her place ... I've messaged her and called her but it goes straight to green or voice mail."

You nod, once again unsure of what to say next. You'd don't have to think because Paige drops in again. She had a one-of-a-kind skill of unknowingly being able to fill in silences.

"It's not like I cheated or she cheated," you hear the emotions flooding back into her voice - it's not sadness, well it probably is but it's wrapped up in anger and disbelief. "Which spins me because it's not like we were in a bad spot - okay yeah, I wouldn't respond sometimes, but that's normal, sometimes I'm genuinely tired from training!"

"Maybe she's stressed too and it's all a bit too much to deal with," You say.

She throws you a quick look, something between betrayal and you're not helping. It's fast, and she cools her features back to normal.

"- Not that I'm saying it's a good excuse," you counter, "But, it's something to consider. Did she actually say why?"

"Something about I'm not present. It's bullshit," she sighs.

You want to say something comforting, anything, but everything that comes to mind feels hollow. Besides, it's not like whatever you could say could put a bandage over a 2 year relationship ending.

She sits up again, her hoodie falling back to it's rightful face. She looks around the room, her eyes itching for something to distract her from whatever uncomfortable feelings she can feel rising. Her eyes fall on her set of keys, the original red fob you'd both received on move-in day had long been overtaken by numerous keychains and fabric bracelets - even a heart picture frame.

"Hey, do you want to do something?" She asks, "Get out of here for a bit?"

At the tip of your tongue is some vague excuse about how you really need to cook right now, but before it can come out, she speaks again.

"Please - I really need to step out for a bit." Her voice is soft, just about holding back a crack.

You're not a monster so of course, you nod and say sure. You don't ask where to until you're following her long strides down the hall and into the low-lit car park. The night feels colder than usual and your bare feet in slides feel anything but appropriate for the weather.

An orange glow from a stray streetlight casts a small tinge of light on her face as she unlocks the door to her car. "I was thinking of going to the outdoor court. You know, the one near the park? It's just a short drive. I could really use a change of scenery, and maybe shooting around would help clear my head .... that cool?"

"Yeah," you say, because what else could you say? "That’s cool."

How cliche you think - a basketball player needing to shoot hops to clear their head.

The drive is quiet, the hum of the engine filling the space between you. Paige keeps her eyes on the road, and the tension in her shoulders is palpable. You can't help but think this is how she looks when she's on the bench, (playing the game in her mind, sizing up the opposition and just yearning to get back in).

Connecticut's lights blur past as you make your way out of the downtown area, the campus fading away as she turns into a quieter, more residential neighbourhood. The basketball court comes into view, illuminated by a few scattered streetlights and a single overhead light, casting a gentle glow over the cracked asphalt and faded court markings.

She pulls into the nearest parking bay, reversing in with ease, her arm draping over your headrest as she checks the mirror. It's then that you wonder how many times she's done this exact move with her ex. You imagine her ex sitting where you are now, lips fresh with a kiss and the seat shaped by her form.

A whole two years, you think. No wonder she was going stair-crazy.

You're now out of the car, rocking on the back of your feet as Paige gets her duffle bag out of the car. It's at that point when she finally asks you about your day.

You shrug, "It's been ight, nothing much to be fair. Just trying to get my head around ... we've got a new TA and the bitch marks hard as hell."

She chuckles in response, "Damn, tough one. You do something with economics, right?"

"Yeah, something about economics. Not my first choice but it's gonna do the job," you reply trailing behind her longer strides as she leads you both into the empty court.

"Economics. Get the job done?" she repeats with a playful scoff, a small smirk playing on her lips. "Can't tell if you're being humble or—"

"Not humble," you interject, "It's an ends to means."

She unzips her duffle bag and brings out her ball and bounces it a few times, the rhythmic thud echoing softly in the quiet night. "What's the end goal then?"

You're shrugging as you go to take your place on the edge of the court, watching as Paige moves around and seemingly becomes one with the court. (something about seeing her in her natural ele‐ ment) "Probably some cushy consulting job. I'm not gonna lie, I've got no idea but I've lowkey liked the subject all through school, it's just made sense to do it."

Paige dribbles the ball a few times, then takes a shot. The ball cuts through the air and swishes through the hoop. light work.

"I'm guessing you've always known what you wanted to do," you continue.

She nods, bounces the ball again, but this her feet and body moving across the court as though she's playing the last two minutes of a game. "Yup! It's always been basketball. From elementary, middle school and high school. Nothing but ball." she punctuates her last line with a throw.

"Wish that were me!" you say.

She looks over at you, the ball now finding itself passing from hand to hand. "You wanted to play ball?"

It's your turn to scoff, "No, I'm talking about the whole knowing what you wanted to do from the get go."

Paige pauses mid-dribble, her eyes narrowing playfully as she studies you. "Yeah, I get that. Not everyone figures it out early. But, you know, it's not like it's been easy. Just because I knew doesn't mean it wasn't a grind."

She takes another shot, and the ball glides through the net with a satisfying swish. As she retrieves it, she adds, "There's a lot of pressure, too. Once you say 'this is it,' everyone expects you to stick with it, no matter what."

You watch as she moves across the court, her pace slower now, more thoughtful. "I guess I just got lucky," she continues. "Or maybe I was stubborn. It's hard to tell sometimes."

"I guess that makes you one of the few," you say, leaning back against the fence, watching her with a mix of admiration and something else - something you can't quite put your finger on. Is this what her fans felt? It always spun you that she had fans. Fans. Would they be jealous right now? "Most people I know are still figuring it out, including me."

Paige stops dribbling and looks at you, her expression softening. "You've got time," she says, her voice losing some of its earlier intensity. "There's no rush to have it all figured out. Sometimes, the best things come when you least expect them."

She tosses the ball to you, and it lands in your hands with a gentle thud. You can feel the worn leather under your fingers, still warm from her grip. For a moment, you're both silent, the weight of her words hanging in the cool night air.

"Maybe," you say quietly, the ball feeling heavier and heavier in your hands. "But sometimes it feels like everyone else is racing ahead while I'm stuck at the start line."

"Play with me," she says, gesturing you over.

You look down at the ball and then back to her, "You're a D1 athlete. You're just gonna show me up plus I don't even know how to shoot."

"Come on, I'll teach you," There's a playful glint in her eyes. "It'll make me like five percent less sad."

You hesitate, but her enthusiasm is contagious. She hands the ball back to you and steps behind, lightly adjusting your stance. "Feet shoulder-width apart, knees bent," she instructs, her hands guiding yours on the ball. "Use your legs for power, wrist for control."

You try to follow her lead, feeling her breath close as she directs your movements. "And when you shoot, remember, follow through, like you're reaching into a cookie jar."

You chuckle at the analogy and take a shot. The ball bounces off the rim, and Paige claps. "Not bad. Let's go again."

Paige steps in front of you, her tone shifting slightly as she moves into coach mode. You can tell she's probably coached some little league somewhere here in Connecticut or wherever her home state was - she’d mentioned it numerous times but you’d forgotten. "Alright, keep your elbow in and focus on the backboard," she says, her hands demonstrating the movement. "And don't forget, it's all about the follow through."

You roll your eyes playfully. "Alright, coach. I got it."

"It's Coach P," She smirks, her eyes twinkling. "Just trying to make you a baller." You take another shot, and this time, the ball swishes through the net. Paige cheers, giving you a high five. "There it is! You're a natural."

"Light work" you say with a grin. It's anything but.

Paige bumps you lightly with her shoulder. "Not bad at all. But next time, we're working on your dribbling cause that shit was shocking."

***

Nights at the court, which you’d now come to know was actually called St Bernard’s Court, became routine much like when you’d call her name when she’d come back to the apartment.

You’d gotten used to settling into the passenger seat of her car, the familiar hum of the engine surrounding you as she drove, her hands gripping the wheel with that same steady determination. Conversations, once filled with awkward pauses and small talk, now flowed effortlessly. They were the kind of talks that never seemed to end - about everything and nothing, the mundane details of life at uni, complaints about bad food at the cafeteria, or her latest training session. It was simple.

Sometimes, she’d give up her dictator-like hold over the music and let your playlists take over, though more often than not, you let hers play on. You never minded; there was something comforting about the predictable beats of her curated selections. Her taste was always a little sharper, more nuanced than yours, and you found yourself adding some of songs to your liked list when you’d gotten back to the safety of your own room.

Sometimes, after an hour of shooting around, you’d both end up on the concrete, sitting against the low bleachers, legs stretched out before you, talking about whatever came to mind and letting the cold settle deep into your skin. But more often than not, the conversation would shift to her ex. It had become a quiet pattern: Paige would talk about her like it was a distant, painful memory she was still learning how to deal with.

She’d mention her in passing, her tone casual at first, as though it didn’t sting anymore.

It reminded you like she was just like any other girl despite the fame. Unable to resist feigning indifference to hurt - so you didn’t judge because you’d done it over and over.

“I don’t even know why she said that,” Paige would say, tossing the ball back into her hands, eyes focused on something far off. “I never meant to be distant. You know how it is; practice, school, games... life’s a lot.” She’d sigh, running a hand through her hair, shaking her head.

And then, almost like she couldn’t help herself, the bitterness would slip in. “She made it sound like I didn’t care at all,” Paige muttered, kicking the ball across the court. “Like it was all about me, me, me.” Her voice softened, the edges raw, the anger melting into something unspoken and lingering. “She didn’t even give me a chance to explain, to fix things. Not that it matters now.”

You listened. Not to solve anything, not to offer some platitude about how she’d be better off. You listened because, in those quiet moments, it felt like her words were a way of processing, a way to let the weight of everything settle into something less heavy.

Her ex wasn’t just a past relationship, not just a name you’d heard murmured in the back of conversations. She was a part of Paige’s present, even if it was an unwelcome one, lingering in the way Paige looked at the court sometimes, or the way she pulled away when you tried to get too close. Her ex was a shadow that loomed over your conversations, her absence filling the spaces that Paige didn’t want to admit she missed.

“You know, I thought she was the one,” Paige would often say with a dry laugh, picking at the fabric of her hoodie. “Stupid, huh?” She’d shake her head like it was all so ridiculous now. But the way she’d say it, softly, almost tenderly, like she was still trying to convince herself.

And then, just as quickly, she’d pull herself out of it, focusing on something else. “Anyway, I’m not thinking about her tonight,” she’d say, standing up and grabbing the ball.

At some point she’d move on. Stop needing the nights at the court and you’d be proud because your friend (it felt weird to call her a friend thinking about the times you’d dodged her invitations for connection, but things were different now) had moved on.

***

The nights eventually come to an end.

They’re stopped when you’re sitting in yours and Paige’s shared living room, letting the tv play in the background as you listlessly scroll on your phone.

The door to her room is closed but you can hear the familiar music playing through it. She emerges, her face flushed and eyes bright - frantic even.

“Yo ... Guess who just called me?” She announces, taking what felt like her first breath in hours.

You look up, the question hanging in the air between you. Your thumb hovers over your phone’s screen, trying to gauge her excitement.

Paige’s gaze is intense, a slight nervous energy vibrating beneath her words. She doesn’t wait for you to guess.

“Ari,” she says, her voice a little softer now, like she’s unsure what to feel about it. “She called me.” The words hit you unexpectedly, like a slow tide pulling at your feet. A small knot forms in your stomach, not because you’re unhappy for her, but because you weren’t prepared for this.

“Oh shit,” you manage to say, trying to push away the strange, unexpected sensation that’s fluttered inside you.

“She said sorry. She said she made a mistake. Fuck, I... I don’t know even know what think.”

You lean forward a little, trying to sound reassuring. “I mean, that’s a good sign, right? She’s reaching out.”

Paige exhales a short laugh, glancing down at her hands before looking back up at you. “I guess? But fuck, it just feels... messy.”

You nod, understanding the weight of her uncertainty. You’ve seen how much this relationship meant to her, and it’s clear she’s torn.

“You wanna talk about it?” you ask.

She shakes her head, a small smile creeping onto her face. “Not yet, I think. I just... I need to think. It’s all a bit much, you know?”

The room goes silent, save for the faint hum of the TV in the background.

For a moment, you sit in the quiet, the weight of the conversation hanging in the air. And maybe it’s just you, or maybe it’s just the way Paige is looking at you now, but you sense that something has shifted—ever so slightly, but undeniably.

You’re still not sure what that means yet, or if it means anything at all. But for now, you don’t push.

She sighs and falls back onto the couch, closing her eyes. “I’ll figure it out,” she says softly, more to herself than to you but you know she’s already made her choice.

You lean back, turning your attention back to your phone, but there’s an odd feeling in your chest that refuses to settle. For a moment, you wonder what would have happened if things had gone differently, if she’d never gotten that call. But before you can think too much about it, Paige shifts beside you, her presence pulling you back down to earth.

“Thanks,” she says quietly.

You smile, almost relieved that the tension has eased, even if only for now. “Anytime.”

The night stretches on, the air between you both comfortable again. And yet, you can’t help but wonder why you feel torn. Why aren’t you bubbling with happiness, like how you’d reacted when Zen had called you in senior year to say she and Trevor had gotten back together.

Eventually, you leave the couch, muttering an excuse about needing to get back to studying.

Ari comes back into the fold of life at yours and Paige’s apartment like she’d never left.

The songs that used to fill Paige’s room—those soft, sad, contemplative ones—shift back to some‐ thing lighter, more upbeat. Her shoes reappear, scattered carelessly by the door, mingling with Paige’s own, like they always belonged together. And just like that, you go back to being good roommates.

That doesn’t hurt. It’s respectful - because who’d let their girlfriend spend nights at the basketball court together? It makes sense.

It only hurts when you come back to the apartment and see them on the couch. The lights dimmed, a fluffy blanket over their legs and a Christmas movie playing.

The first time it happens, you’re awkward. Painfully awkward. Your body not knowing how to react for the first time to something you’d seen countless times before.

You hesitate in the doorway, suddenly unsure of how to move, unsure of what to say. The air between the three of you feels thicker, heavier than it ever has before. You wish you could say something light, make a joke.

They don’t even notice at first - Paige’s attention is wholly focused on the TV screen, her hand absentmindedly brushing through her girlfriend’s hair. You feel like you’re not even supposed to be here, even though it’s your apartment too.

Eventually, though, Paige looks up, her eyes meeting yours, and for a second, the warmth in them falters. She smiles, but it’s tight, apologetic.

“Hey,” she says, her voice a little too bright, a little too forced. “You’re back. We were just watching this cheesy Christmas movie. Wanna join?”

The offer is there, hanging in the air between you, but the tension is palpable. You force a smile, shaking your head quickly.

“Nah, it’s fine,” your voice comes out more strained than you’d intended. “I was just coming in to ... grab something.”

You spend the rest of the night at Zen’s.

“So bitch, what the hell is up with you?” Zen asks. her gaze sharp as she watches you.

You blink, focusing back on her, the buzz of the rosé clouding your thoughts. “Nothing, I’m fine,” you reply, maybe a little too quickly.

“Sure ... sure you are,” she says with a knowing look, before taking a long sip from her glass, then a pause. “Dude, you’ve literally been distracted all night. Moping around everywhere.”

You hesitate, a little caught off guard. You’ve told Zen about Paige, from the odd first meeting to playing basketball together and to the events which took place hours ago.

“You sure you’re okay with them... back together?” Zen continues, her voice quieter, but there’s a softness to it now. She’s not trying to push, just letting the question sit there.

The idea that maybe everyone sees what you’re trying to hide - maybe even Paige - that part makes you feel sick.

You take another sip of your wine, the sweet sharpness of it doing nothing to dull the growing ache in your chest.

“Yeah,” you say again, but it’s not convincing. Not to Zen. Not to yourself.

Zen’s eyes soften, and for a moment, she doesn’t look at you like she’s waiting for a response. She looks at you like she already knows the answer. You know it. Damn.

***

A/N: My first Paige fic! let me know what you think and if I should continue ... I haven't written fanfiction in years, which is a shame because I used really enjoy the fic writing/reading community. I've literally had this blog on the backburner for the last 3 or so years just waiting to find the right thing to write about and here it is ... I think?

#paige bueckers #paige x reader #uconn wbb #uconn x reader #paige bueckers fic #paige bueckers angst #ncaa wbb #ncaaw #wcbb #uconn huskies

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rafedarling · 9 days ago

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can you do the puppy interview with drew starkey x actress reader plss

𝐩𝐮𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰

pairing: drew starkey x actress!reader ft rustyn starkey

summary: you and drew, and your son rustyn participate in a puppy interview, creating heartwarming chaos on set.

warning(s): english is not my native language. none, fluff and family fun.

au: like, reblog and feedback are much appreciated. discussion can be send through my ask box, please feel free to send in anything. ⭐️ taglist | tagging: @rubixgsworld @rafeyslamb @bisexualcvnt @tracymbcm @maybankslover @anamiad00msday @stuffyownswrld @httpsdrewstarkey @mileyraes @enjoymyloves @akobx @noobmazter69 @victwrvale @xoxohoneymoongirl @xoxosblogsblog @wearemadeofstardust0 @saviorcomplexrry @percysley @littlelamy @winniemoe @emberaurora @watercolorskyy @kravitzwhore

“Hello, this is Y/N.”

You start with a smile at the camera.

“I’m Drew Starkey,”

Drew adds, a soft chuckle escaping his lips as a playful corgi tugs at his shoelace.

“And I’m Rustyn Starkey!”

Rustyn proudly chimes in, his little voice filling the room.

The way he says it, with a mixture of excitement and confidence, makes the crew chuckle.

“And we’re here for…”

“A puppy interview!” you and Drew announce together while Rustyn claps his hands, his energy infectious.

Rustyn immediately gets distracted by a wiggly golden retriever puppy climbing into his lap.

“Hi, puppy!” he says, giggling as the pup licks his cheek.

Drew picks up the first card, holding it in front of him dramatically.

“Alright, first question… Who is the biggest dog lover? Drew or Y/N?”

He pauses for a second before answering with a grin.

“I’ll say both because we all love puppies!”

You nod, laughing as a dachshund pup curls up by your side.

“Okay, fair answer. But Rustyn might be the biggest dog lover here.”

Rustyn looks up from petting his puppy.

“I love them sooooo much!” he declares, making everyone on set melt.

The next card is passed to you, and you read aloud,

“What would you name this puppy if you could take it home?”

You hold up a fluffy Bernese mountain dog sitting near Rustyn.

“This one feels like a Charlie to me, big and sweet.”

Rustyn thinks for a moment before pointing to the golden retriever still snuggled in his lap.

“I’d name mine Buddy, ‘cause he’s my buddy now!”

Drew laughs, ruffling Rustyn’s hair.

“Buddy’s a solid name. I’d name this little guy Rufus,” he says, gesturing to a dachshund sniffing around his lap.

“He looks like he’s up to something.”

“Dada, can we take them all home?” Rustyn asks, his big eyes looking up at Drew.

You and Drew exchange a knowing glance, both trying not to laugh.

“We’ll see, buddy,” Drew says, grinning.

“But let’s finish the interview first, okay?”

The next question is read by Drew.

“Who’s more likely to sneak the puppy treats?”

“Dada,” Rustyn answers immediately, giggling.

Drew raises his hands in mock surrender.

“Okay, okay, guilty. But you’d sneak them, too, wouldn’t you, Rusty?”

Rustyn looks thoughtful for a moment before nodding.

“Yeah, but only if the puppies are really good.”

“That’s my boy,” Drew says, laughing as a corgi puppy climbs onto his lap.

The crew brings out more puppies, creating a delightful chaos as they run around the set. One pup grabs a squeaky toy, making Rustyn laugh so hard he falls back onto the couch.

“Alright, next question!” you say, trying to regain focus.

“Who’s more likely to cry if the puppy gets hurt or sick?”

You, Drew, and Rustyn all point at each other simultaneously, which sends everyone into fits of laughter.

“No way, it’s Dada,” Rustyn insists, his tiny finger pointing directly at Drew.

“You cried when we saw the movie about the dog!”

Drew laughs, trying to defend himself.

“It was an emotional movie! And don’t act like you didn’t cry too, bud.”

Rustyn shrugs, giggling. “Maybe a little.”

You laugh, shaking your head.

“Let’s just agree that we’d all be emotional wrecks if anything happened to these little guys.”

The final question comes up, and you hand the card to Drew. He reads it aloud.

“What’s one quality in each other that would make you amazing dog parents?”

Drew pauses, his expression softening as he looks at you.

“You’re so patient and loving. You make everything, whether it’s taking care of Rustyn, the dogs, or me, feel effortless. And I know you’d raise the most well-behaved dogs in the world… somehow.”

You feel your heart swell but quickly focus on him.

“And you’re the most hands-on dad and partner I’ve ever seen. You’d be out there training the dogs, playing with them, and making sure they’re spoiled with love. They’d be the happiest pups ever.”

Rustyn looks between the two of you.

“And I’d give them hugs and kisses every day!”

“We know you would,” you say, pulling him close for a quick kiss on the head.

As the interview wraps up, Rustyn is lying on the floor with three puppies cuddling around him, his giggles filling the set. You and Drew watch, smiling at each other.

“Mommy, Dada can we take Buddy home, please?” Rustyn pleads, his eyes shining with hope.

Drew looks at you, raising an eyebrow.

“What do you think, Mama?”

You laugh, knowing the answer was already decided the moment Rustyn named the puppy.

“Alright, Buddy can come home with us.”

Rustyn cheers, throwing his arms around the golden retriever.

“Thank you, thank you, thank you!”

Drew leans over to kiss your cheek, his voice low enough for only you to hear.

“You’re the best.”

As the scene fades, Rustyn’s voice rings out

“This is the best day ever!”

#drew starkey #drew starkey imagine #drew starkey imagines #drew starkey x y/n #drew starkey fanfiction #drew starkey fanfic #drew x reader #drew starkey fluff #drew starkey one shot #drew starkey x reader #dad!drew starkey x mom!you #dad!drew starkey x mom!reader #dad!drew starkey

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solxamber · 1 month ago

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Octavinelle 4 comedy please!

Man vs Fish || Azul Ashengrotto

For the Holiday Event!! ; Prompt: "I'm NOT jealous", Genre: Comedy

You lean casually against the bar at the Monstro Lounge, giving Azul the kind of knowing look that screams, I know something you don’t want me to know. Azul, on the other hand, is fussing with some invoices, clearly trying to ignore your presence. He’s been like this all day—tense, distracted, and oddly defensive.

“Azul~,” you start, drawing out his name like you’re about to deliver the most earth-shattering news.

He stiffens. “What?”

“I know.”

Azul pauses mid-signature, slowly looking up at you like you’ve just accused him of a crime. “You... know what?”

You smirk. “I know you’re jealous.”

His quill drops. “Excuse me?”

You pat his shoulder in mock sympathy. “It’s okay, really. I mean, who wouldn’t be jealous of a goldfish?”

Azul blinks. “What.”

“You’ve been glaring at the fish tank all day,” you explain, jerking a thumb toward the shimmering tank in the corner of the lounge. Inside, a particularly lively goldfish swims in gleeful circles, its long fins trailing behind it like streamers. “You’ve been eyeing Mr. Glub-Glub like he owes you rent.”

Azul stares at you, utterly dumbfounded. “You think I’m jealous... of a goldfish.”

You shrug. “It’s okay. You’re allowed to feel insecure. I mean, look at him! He’s the life of the party. Everyone stops to admire him. He’s got presence.”

Azul makes a strangled noise. “I—he’s a fish.”

You tap your chin thoughtfully. “A very charismatic fish.”

“I AM NOT JEALOUS OF A FISH!” Azul bursts out, slamming his hands on the bar. The sound echoes through the lounge, drawing the attention of a few nearby students. Jade, ever the opportunist, pokes his head out from the kitchen with a curious glint in his eye.

“Something the matter, Azul?” Jade asks, far too innocently.

“No!” Azul snaps, face already starting to flush.

You give Jade a solemn nod. “He’s jealous of Mr. Glub-Glub.”

“I AM NOT!” Azul sputters, practically tripping over himself. “I don’t—why would I be—he’s just a decorative fish!”

Jade hums thoughtfully. “He is rather elegant. Such graceful fins.”

“STOP HELPING!” Azul cries, burying his face in his hands.

You, now fully committed to this bit, lean closer to Azul, your voice soft and conspiratorial. “It’s okay to admit it, Azul. We all have someone—or something—we feel we can’t measure up to. You don’t have to hide your feelings.”

Azul groans, dragging his hands down his face. “You are impossible. Utterly impossible.”

You pat his back reassuringly. “And you’re jealous. It’s okay, buddy.”

Azul straightens up, adjusting his glasses with a newfound determination. “You know what? Fine. If I’m so ‘jealous,’ let’s settle this once and for all.”

You blink. “Settle what?”

“I’ll prove that I’m not jealous of that... goldfish,” he declares, striding purposefully toward the tank.

Jade, clearly enjoying the chaos, sidles up next to you. “What do you think he’s going to do?”

“No idea,” you admit, watching as Azul begins to... negotiate?

“Listen here, Mr. Glub-Glub,” Azul mutters, leaning down to glare at the fish. “You may think you’re popular now, but this is my lounge. I run this show. I bring the customers. You’re just... aquatic decor!”

The goldfish bobs cheerfully in the water, entirely unfazed.

You exchange a glance with Jade. “Yup. Definitely not jealous.”

Azul spins around, his cheeks blazing. “I’M NOT!”

You and Jade burst into laughter, and even Azul can’t keep the twitch of a smile off his face, though he quickly hides it behind a grumble.

As the laughter dies down, you sidle up to him and grin. “For the record, Azul, you’re way cooler than Mr. Glub-Glub. He could never rock a suit like you.”

Azul huffs, but the faint smile returns. “Well... obviously.”

“And for the record,” you add, patting his shoulder, “you’re still jealous.”

Azul groans. “You’re the worst.”

“And you love it.”

He says nothing, but the way he flushes says everything.

Masterlist

#twst x reader #twisted wonderland x reader #twst #twisted wonderland #azul x reader #azul ashengrotto x reader #azul ashengrotto x you #azul #𓂃 ࣪˖ ִֶָ𐀔 holiday event

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rose24207 · 1 month ago

Note

Omg loved your Mafia lando hookup turned having a baby together turned into a love confession 💕

Can I request something similar where instead of reader being pregnant they already have a son together and there not together but Lando wants to but reader is hesitate, and one day while Lando is with his son, lando asks why the reader looked so exhausted and tired and his son says something about how his momma is tight on money and has to work double shifts at the diner from what he heard making Lando go to reader and ask why she didn't come to him for money if she needed it but she didn't want to seam like she was using him. And lando can see how exhausted she is, arks foe her to stay with him so he can look after them both.

Second chances

Summary: After overhearing his son reveal how hard his mother works to make ends meet, Lando confronts his ex about her struggles and offers them both the stability and love they deserve

Genre: Dad!Lando, ex!Lando, angst, fluff

TW: None!

A/N: Finally!! I know you guys waited long but here it is!! English is not my first language. I hope you enjoy it though! Requests are open and welcome!

Masterlist

The laughter of your son echoes across the park as he kicks a soccer ball around with Lando. You watch from a distance, sitting on a bench, a small smile tugging at your lips despite your exhaustion. It’s moments like these that make everything worth it—seeing Theo happy, his face lighting up with pure joy. Lando, as usual, is fully engaged, chasing after the ball and letting Theo score over and over, his own laughter blending with your son’s.

The two of you aren’t together anymore, haven’t been for a while. But Lando has always been a good father. He’s present, attentive, and Theo absolutely adores him. Still, it doesn’t change the ache in your chest whenever you see them together. It’s a bittersweet reminder of what could have been.

“Mom! Watch this!” Theo shouts, his little legs pumping as he kicks the ball with all his might. It barely makes it past Lando’s feet, but Lando falls to the ground dramatically, clutching his chest like he’s been defeated.

“You got me!” Lando exclaims, lying flat on his back. Theo runs over, his giggles infectious, and jumps onto his dad’s chest.

You shake your head, chuckling softly. “Careful, Theo. Don’t hurt your dad too much.”

“Mom, I’m strong!” Theo flexes his tiny arms, and Lando gives him an exaggerated look of awe.

“Super strong,” Lando agrees, ruffling his hair.

It’s these moments that keep you going, even when you feel like you’re running on empty.

Later that evening, you’re in the kitchen, trying to throw together dinner while keeping an eye on the clock. Your shift at the diner starts early tomorrow, and you already know it’s going to be another long day.

When Lando walks in with Theo, he pauses.

“You look tired,” he says gently, concern flashing in his eyes.

“I’m fine,” you reply automatically, brushing a strand of hair out of your face. “Just a lot to do.”

Lando doesn’t seem convinced, but he doesn’t push it. He kneels down to Theo’s level instead, helping him take off his shoes.

“Did you have fun today?” you ask, forcing a smile as you set the table.

“The best!” Theo exclaims. “Dad let me score, like, a million goals!”

Lando chuckles. “More like ten, but who’s counting?”

You watch them from the corner of your eye, a pang of guilt hitting you. You don’t want Theo to ever feel like he’s missing out, even though money’s been tight lately.

That night, after dinner, Lando and Theo are sitting on the floor, drawing with crayons. You’re washing the dishes, listening to their quiet chatter.

“Dad, can I tell you a secret?” Theo whispers, loud enough for you to hear.

“Of course, buddy. What’s up?”

“Momma’s always tired,” Theo says matter-of-factly. “She works a lot at the diner now.”

Your heart sinks. You turn your back, pretending not to hear as you scrub a plate harder than necessary.

“Yeah?” Lando’s voice is softer now. “Why do you think that is?”

Theo shrugs. “I heard her tell Auntie Sarah that she has to work double shifts to make more money.”

There’s a pause, and you can feel Lando’s gaze burning into your back. You don’t dare turn around.

“Thanks for telling me, Theo,” Lando says finally, his voice calm but serious. “Why don’t you go pick out a book for bedtime?”

Theo scampers off, leaving the two of you alone.

“Y/N.”

You stiffen, gripping the edge of the sink. “I don’t want to talk about it, Lando.”

“Tough, because we need to.”

You whirl around, defensive. “It’s not your problem, okay? I’m handling it.”

Lando crosses his arms, his expression a mix of frustration and concern. “Clearly, you’re not. Why didn’t you tell me you were struggling?”

“Because I’m not!” you snap, though the tears pooling in your eyes betray you. “I don’t want your money, Lando. I’m not going to be that person who uses you just because you have more than I do.”

He exhales sharply, running a hand through his hair. “This isn’t about you using me. It’s about you and Theo. If you’re working yourself to the bone, how can you take care of him properly?”

“I am taking care of him,” you insist, your voice cracking. “I’m doing the best I can.”

Lando steps closer, his tone softening. “I know you are. But you don’t have to do it alone, Y/N. Let me help you.”

You shake your head, tears spilling over. “I don’t want to depend on you. What if you change your mind? What if—”

“I’m not going anywhere,” he interrupts firmly. “I’ve never gone anywhere, have I?”

You’re silent, your chest heaving with emotion.

“Y/N,” Lando says quietly, “you’re exhausted. You’re trying so hard to be strong for Theo, but you don’t have to do it alone. Stay with me. Both of you. Let me take care of you—for him, and for you.”

The words hit you like a tidal wave. Part of you wants to say yes, to let him shoulder some of the burden. But the fear of being let down, of relying on someone else, holds you back.

“I don’t know if I can,” you whisper.

“You can,” Lando says, his voice steady. “I know things didn’t work out between us before, but that doesn’t mean we can’t try again. For Theo. For us.”

You look up at him, his eyes earnest and full of determination. For the first time in a long time, you feel a flicker of hope.

That night, after Theo is asleep, the two of you sit down and talk. Really talk. About the past, about the future, about the family you both want to build for Theo.

By the time the sun rises, you’ve made a decision. Maybe it’s time to let go of the fear and let someone in.

Maybe it’s time for a second chance.

Thank you for reading!

#lando norris #lando x reader #lando imagine #lando x you #f1 #fluff #angst #mafia!lando #f1 mafia au #mafia #formula 1 #formula one #dad!lando #ex

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luvlloyd · 9 months ago

Text

🌿 | 𝐈 𝐋𝐎𝐕𝐄 𝐘𝐎𝐔: drabbles

╰┈➤ how would the ninjas react to you telling them that you love them for the first time?

🍃 WARNINGS: fluff, sarcasm, minor wound (Jay), mentions of cursing and self doubt (Kai), nightmares (Lloyd)

🌳 CHARACTERS INCLUDED: Cole, Jay, Kai, Lloyd, Nya, Zane (separately), x (gender neutral) reader

🌴 AUTHORS NOTE: tehe first writing post, hi buddies!! :) A bit of OOC Nya but I still think what I wrote for her was too cute to change <3

˗ˏˋ〘 𝓒𝐎𝐋𝐄 〙ˎˊ˗

"Cole… That’s too much sugar-" You interjected, grasping your boyfriend’s arm before he could empty the sugar into the mixing bowl.

“Oh.. my bad, (Name)." Cole chuckled sheepishly, his smile betraying his embarrassment as he glanced at you, “Sorry,” He added.

With a playful roll of your eyes, you aided him in adjusting the sugar amount, "No wonder you’re a sucky chef, Cole," you teased, prompting a scoff from him.

“Me? A sucky chef, please!" He exaggerated the ‘please,’ earning a knowing look from you.

“What? Did you know I’m secretly Gordon Ramsey’s love child?" He grinned.

“In your dreams you probably are," you laughed, causing his face to drop in mock disbelief.

“How dare you? Take this." Cole took the flour that was laying on the counter, grabbed some from the packet and tossed it into your face.

“Cole..! Stop!" You squealed, shielding your face with your arms.

“Nuh uh, you are going to face my flour wrath, (Name)!" He persisted, continuing to shower you with flour until you managed to wrestle the packet from him. Soon, both of you were engaged in a flour war, filling the kitchen with laughter.

Eventually, his arms found their way around your hips, pulling you close as you leaned against his chest, both of you still giggling,

"Cole, I love you so much," you said playfully, feeling him freeze at your words. His pause prompted you to furrow your eyebrows and stare up at him. Cole gazed at you with eyes filled with passion and adoration before he leaned in to peck your lips,

“I love you too, (Name)."

He kissed you again, and again and again. Until you both were just contently sitting in each other’s arms, embraced within the euphoria.

Unfortunately for the two of you, the euphoria was to be put on hold—You both had a bit of some cleaning up to do…

˗ˏˋ〘 𝓙𝐀𝐘 〙ˎˊ˗

The brown haired boy seemed to be bubbling with anxiety, fidgeting with his fingers as he kicked his feet against the medical bed. You grabbed the first aid kit, placing it beside him with a huff, meeting Jay's eyes.

“Do we really have to do this?" he whined, but you reassured him with a smile.

“Of course, dear. We don't want your boo-boo to worsen, do we?" His ears turned pink at your pet name as you dabbed antiseptic on a cloth.

“It's just a cut, (Name)! I don't want to go through all this," Jay pleaded as you brought the cloth closer to him. You looked at him sympathetically,

“Exactly, it's just a cut, so why are you so scared?" You paused, a playful glint in your eye, "Aren't you supposed to be my brave boyfriend?" Jay's expression softened, a grin spreading across his face,

“You're right! I am your brave boyfriend!" he proclaimed proudly. You grinned as you brought the cloth to his cheek.

He winced softly at the burning sensation before the feeling got replaced with your delicate fingers. You applied a Thomas the Train band-aid to his cut and swiftly placed a small kiss on your boyfriend’s cheek, “There you go, your boo-boo is all better now,”

“Thanks doc,” Jay said, his smile cheesy and so incredibly contagious that it brought a smile to your own lips. His bright brown eyes staring into yours as though you were a delicately painted painting, simply a work of art for him to stare at. You cusp his cheek as you both continue staring at each other, you caressed his soft yet warm skin under your fingertips,

“I love you, Jay," you spoke softly. He grinned cheekily, his cheeks lightly dusted pink at your words.

"Well, I love you more!" he retorted playfully.

“No, I love you more," you countered.

“Nope! I love you the most mostful and mostest!" he declared, pulling you into a tight hug and nuzzling his head into your neck. As you let out a small giggle he whispered into your ear,

“I love you, (Name), forever."

˗ˏˋ〘 𝓚𝐀𝐈 〙ˎˊ˗

After enduring the agonizing training, you found yourself sprawled on the floor, Kai, your boyfriend of two months, grinning down at you, his weapon by his side.

His sweat-dampened hairs framed his face as he leaned closer to tease you, but suddenly, his playful smirk fell. He tumbled forward, landing directly on top of you. He muttered a curse as his eyes locked with yours, and your breath hitched. You both were merely centimeters between each other and in that moment, you swore the world seemed to stand still.

"Hey, sweetheart," he whispered, his voice soft and gentle, “Seems like I fell for you,”

"Hi Kai," you snickered, finding his attempt at being flirty endearing. "Seems like I caught you."

"Sorry about that," Kai chuckled, rolling off to lie beside you on the dojo floor. Together, you gazed up at the ceiling, embracing the silence in the room, until you couldn't resist stealing a glance at his side profile. Holding back the urge to caress his face, you traced the features with your eyes. You met his gaze as his smirked, his eyes staring into yours knowingly.

He wiggled his eyebrows playfully as he teased you, "Like what you see, sweetheart?"

"I love it," you whispered sweetly, brushing a strand of his hair before meeting his eyes again. "I love all of you."

Kai froze, his confident demeanor crumbling as a blush painted his cheeks. His face turning as bright as his gi. His face faltering into a slight frown.

“You don't mean that," his voice dropped low into a whisper, insecurity lacing his words. You could tell he was feeling incredibly vulnerable.

"Of course I do," you promised him, a gentle smile gracing your lips as you stare into his crestfallen eyes, “I love you Kai.”

He stared into your face, trying to decipher if you were truly being genuine with him. His face brightened up as he realized you were. A sly grin returned to Kai's face, but his eyes held a warmth that made your body melt. He grabbed your hand from your side and put it up to his lips,

“I love you too, sweetheart."

˗ˏˋ〘 𝓛𝐋𝐎𝐘𝐃 〙ˎˊ˗

Lloyd woke abruptly, his body drenched in sweat, heart pounding against his chest as his nightmare caught up to him. They’ve begun appearing more frequently the last couple of years… His eyes darted anxiously around the room, paranoia lingering in his gaze.

“Lloyd?” You whispered, concern lacing your voice, you could barely see him though the darkness.

"Sorry for waking you, darling," he murmured back, his voice quivering. Sitting up, you touch his trembling arm softly,

“Another bad dream?” you asked. The boy didn’t vocalize his thoughts but instead turned to you to nod his head at you like a sad puppy.

"You're okay, Lloyd," you reassured him soothingly, you brushed a strand of his sweat drenched hair away from his troubled face.

“You’re okay,” you repeated, wrapping your arms around him. You felt him crumble beneath your touch, he sunk into your chest as he stared into your eyes. Searching them for reassurance. You begun playing with his blonde locks, a soft hum escaping your lips. You stole a glance at him. The moonlight cast a gentle glow upon his face, revealing the subtle contours of his gentle features. His eyes closed, his breath steadying into a rhythmic pattern,

"Lloyd?" you whispered, uncertainty lacing your voice. There was no response, only the soft sound of his breathing filling the room. Did he already fall back to sleep? You paused, carefully staring down at his face,

“Well, good night Lloyd... I love you," you murmured softly, turning your gaze towards the window.

Unseen by you, a small smile graced his lips, a ghost of a whisper that you unfortunately didn’t pick up,

“I love you too,”

˗ˏˋ〘 𝓝𝐘𝐀 〙ˎˊ˗

You sighed softly as you slipped into your gi, the weight of your mission pressing against your shoulders even before the sun had fully risen. With your weapon at your side, you gazed out at the horizon, thinking about the mission you had to do. It was a task that demanded your immediate attention, one that couldn't wait for the rest of the ninja to stir from their slumber.

As you prepared to summon your elemental dragon, a familiar voice yelled out to you,

"(Name)! Wait!" Your girlfriend, Nya, still in her Spiderman pajamas, dashed towards you with urgency in her step,

“Nya? What’s wrong?" you asked, concern knitting your brow.

"Nothing! I just wanted to say goodbye to you before you left," she replied, quickly kissing you on the cheek. A warmth spread through you at her touch, a feeling of comfort and belonging that only she could ignite.

"Bye (Name)," she said, her smile gentle, but then she hesitated, a flicker of uncertainty crossing her features.

“What’s up?” you prompted, curious about the sudden change in her facial expression.

With a sheepish grin, Nya shook her head and presented you with a basket of food. "I um... I also wanted to give you this basket of food. I didn’t want you to be hungry while on your mission, so take it as your breakfast... I mean it’s obviously not going to be as great as Zane’s cooking, I’m sure—"

You interrupted her rambling by accepting the basket with gratitude, your heart swelling with affection for her thoughtful gesture,

“Thank you, Nya,” You stared into her eyes in adoration. Sincerity seeping through your words.

"Of course! Stay safe, (Name)!" Nya beamed, her happiness contagious as she pulled you into a quick one-armed hug.

"Bye Nya, love you," you said absentmindedly, your focus already shifting towards the task at hand as you climbed onto your dragon's back. You weren’t paying attention to her flustered behavior.

You soared into the sky, leaving Nya behind on the ground. Little did you know, as you flew off into the distance, Nya was left beaming with joy, her heart bursting with the simple words you had spoken.

"I love you too, (Name)!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with happiness as she watched you disappear into the horizon.

With a gleeful bounce, she couldn't contain her excitement any longer. "THEY SAID THEY LOVE ME—“ She quickly scowled to herself,

“Control yourself, Nya, but still!! They said they loved me!!" she squealed, her laughter echoing in the quiet morning air. Most likely awaking most of the Monastery.

˗ˏˋ〘 𝓩𝐀𝐍𝐄 〙ˎˊ˗

You sighed in frustration, your forehead meeting the cool surface of your desk with a dull thud. The blinking cursor on your computer screen taunted you as you tried to summon the words for your research paper. Procrastination had led you to this point, with the deadline looming close.

Lost in your thoughts, you barely registered the muffled noise at your door until it creaked open, revealing the analytical gaze of the ice ninja, Zane,

"Forgive me for interrupting, but I heard sounds of frustration and thought I would offer my assistance," he said, his voice calm and measured.

You managed a weak smile at his considerate gesture. "It's not a problem, I've just hit a roadblock," you admitted, gesturing helplessly towards the computer screen.

"I see no genuine roadblock, do you perhaps mean that figuratively?" Zane inquired, his literal interpretation of your words drawing a chuckle from you. As he approached your desk and effortlessly began typing away at the keyboard, you watched in awe as he swiftly completed the research paper that had been taunting you for hours,

"I believe this should suffice in terms of information. All that's left is to write your conclusion," he remarked, turning towards you with a straightforward expression.

You were dumbfounded by his efficiency, unable to believe he had solved your problem in mere minutes,

“You didn't have to do that!" you exclaimed, your gratitude tinged with surprise.

"I was simply assisting you," Zane replied, his tone neutral, mistaking your reaction for displeasure. You rose from your seat suddenly and enveloped him in a grateful hug,

"Thank you, Zane. I love you," you murmured against his shoulder.

For a moment, there was silence as Zane processed your words, his expression unreadable. Slowly, he brought his arms back up to exchange the hug,

"(Name), you are the optimal configuration for my circuits, the irreplaceable code for my function. To put it in simpler terms, I love you too," he finally responded, his words tinged with a hint of warmth that belied his nindroid nature.

TAGLIST: n/a if interested in getting tag for when I post a specific character lmk!!

©LUVLLOYD | please do not plagiarize, repost, or translate my work anywhere without my consent.

Thank you for reading! If you like or reblog or even decide to follow me, thank you sm! And if you don’t do any of those things, it’s all good! You spending your time to read this makes my day better nonetheless, so have a good one and drink lots of water and just know that I love you! (and so do these lego characters)

#🌿 luvlloyds drabbles #lego ninjago x reader #ninjago x reader #cole brookstone x reader #jay walker x reader #jay x reader #kai smith x reader #lloyd garmadon x reader #nya smith x reader #zane julien x reader #ninjago lloyd x reader #ninjago jay x reader #ninjago nya x reader #ninjago kai x reader #ninjago zane x reader #ninjago cole x reader #ninjago

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on-a-lucky-tide · 4 months ago

Text

Simon loves being Price's demonstration dummy. He loves the aftermath even more.

cw: sexual content, a horny lieutenant, body worship, oral sex, anal sex.

"Start by securin' a grip on yer opponent's arm with one hand, and use the other hand t' grab their collar or shoulder. Carrier vest works well too."

Simon stood at his captain's side, his body relaxed as he prepared to go airborne in the name of practical demonstration. He'd be lying if he said it wasn't his favourite part of the week... well, that and what always followed.

He watched Price from beneath low lashes, drawing deep, slow breaths through the fabric of his mask, if only to keep his bloody heart from thumping through the wall of his chest in excitement. Price's hands warm and firm against his body even through the cotton of his shirt, and his skin tingled in their wake.

"Step t' the side and lower yer hips while bringin' yer opponent close to ya," Price said, his attention on the new recruits gathered around the mat. Simon didn't resist as his captain drew him close, but he did breathe him in; sweat, deodorant and cologne, a deep musk that gathered at the back of Simon's throat, made his mouth water. Simon wanted to shove his nose into his ruffled hair, underneath his arm, across the ruff of his chest, for that scent to soak through to his bones.

"Yer shoulder should be positioned under their armpit. As ya pull yer opponent forward an' down, rotate yer hips and shoulders into them. Use yer legs t' lift an' drive yer shoulder into their body. Big fuckers like this? You gotta use their weight," Price moved and Simon's feet left the floor, "against 'em."

Simon's back hit the mat, punching a grunt from his chest, and he felt the familiar thrill unfurl down his spine as Price's body crowded over him. He studied the dark v-shape of sweat in the front of his shirt, the glisten of wet up his throat that disappeared into the scruffy stubble of his beard. Fuck, Simon wanted to lick it off him.

"As yer man's thrown, maintain yer grip t' control his fall and prepare for a transition into a dominant position or submission. Grapple, choke. Don't pause t' catch yer breath," he explained, half sprawled over Simon's body, his thick chest pressed to Simon's, so close that Simon felt the vibrations of his voice against him. "Any questions?" There weren't any. "Good. Pair up. Technique over strength."

The squaddies grabbed a buddy and headed to the other mats, and Price looked down at his junior officer's face. "You bulkin'?"

"Yeah."

"Thought so. Had to put some welly behind that one," Price said, lopsided grin making Simon want to shove his tongue down his throat. Those blue eyes framed in scruff and laughter lines, the curves beneath his sloped collarbones, the effortless way he had thrown Simon's sizable bulk to the floor, his form perfect, the explosive power in his body exercised with trained precision; everything about him made Simon feral.

The captain rolled to his feet and Simon grabbed the arm he offered down. "Take the four over there. Positioning like that's gonna lead to somethin' tearin'."

"Rog."

Simon wandered over to correct the indicated trainees and Price observed another set. This latest batch were promising, but they were almost skittish in their desperation for approval. More likely to make mistakes and second guess themselves. They needed to relax into it, listen to their instinct over the noise in their head. Simon decided to break the ice with the next demonstration.

It was a simple manoeuvre that tended to be a whole lot of fun to finish the session; the ranger roll. Quick and snappy way to pluck someone from the field and leg it under fire. Price was a pro at it. Simon upped the difficulty by latching onto a nearby bench, locking his legs so that Price flailed on his back halfway through the roll, splayed over Simon's belly with an arm hooked under his knee.

"What the fu--?" Price glanced up, saw Simon's ploy and elbowed him in the gut in retaliation, smirking. "Ya bloody muppet." The recruits laughed, their stances noticeably relaxing as Simon shrugged apologetically. Ice broken. Price rolled to his feet and performed the move again. This time, he lifted Simon from the floor, and Simon draped over his shoulders with a soft, satisfied hum. Fuckin hell, he needed Price on his back, needed those strong thighs around his hips, needed to hear that gruff voice sex-rough, fucked raw.

Simon suffered through another twenty minutes of watching others perform pale imitations of Price, before the captain finally dismissed them to the showers, heading out of the gym to his room.

Simon stayed long enough to ensure no one lingered by the dumb bell rack before swapping out of his boxers and shorts to a pair of grey joggers; he wanted as little between him and his prize as possible. Hands shaking, he knocked at Price's door after pursuing him down the corridors, shouldering his way inside only when Price greeted him from behind it. "Feelin' impatient, Simon?"

Simon watched as Price stripped off, revealing damp curls of chest hair, the sweat-slick curves and slopes of his body, still pumped from exercise, thick and flushed. His mane of brown scruff was ruffled out of place, sticking up in all directions, begging for fingers to grab it, to tug until he was forced to show his throat.

Simon's cock thickened in his joggers, pressing out against the soft grey material, and he folded his mask up above his nose in anticipation. Price chucked his t-shirt onto the floor, standing there in his shorts and nothing else, built like a fuckin greek hero and begging to be defiled, blue eyes dark. "C'mon then, boy. Come get it."

Simon didn't need telling twice. He growled low in his chest and surged forward, barreling Price into his bed, his mouth pressing to his throat as he ground his hip forward between Price's thighs. "Mmf, fuck, yeah," Price moaned, fingernails snagging in Simon's t-shirt as he bucked eagerly.

Price arched, his body begging for worship even if his voice stayed stoic, understated. For now. Simon buried a hand in his hair and pulled his head back, sucking and laving biting kisses down the arch of his throat to his chest, mouthing thick muscle with desperate, wet licks, before sucking a nipple into his mouth with a grateful moan. Price tasted like heaven, raw masculinity and power, and Simon wanted to overwhelm him, overcome the strength roiling beneath his skin, possess it and feel it wrapped around his prick until it yielded to him.

Mine, mine, his mind chanted, his nose burying in Price's armpit as he forced one of Price's arms above his head. Simon ran the flat of his tongue into the groove of it, tip flicking over the veins in his bicep before he sucked kisses into that flesh too. Price gasped, a low, raspy sound deep in his throat, his erection pressing up into Simon's belly, and Simon sank off the edge of the bed as he worked lower.

There was a layer of plush on Price's abdomen and Simon nipped at it, tonguing the trail of hair that disappeared below the waistband of his shorts, before wrenching those down too. Price's full cock bounced free, the slit wet with precum, but Simon ignored it to bury his face in the dark curls around his sac, inhaling the deep musk of him with a feral, half-wild growl.

"Filthy git," Price said through a throaty laugh, only to dissolve in a low moan as Simon sucked, wet and open mouthed, at his balls, teeth threatening tender skin in a way that made Price's cock twitch and throb with arousal. Simon didn't leave him waiting too long, swallowing the thick bulb of his glans to the back of his throat, tongue writhing and wriggling beneath his shaft. Price arched, strong fingers scrunching at Simon's mask and then dropping to grip the blonde tufts that escaped the back of it.

Simon let him fuck up into his mouth, his arms curling around his thighs to pull them apart, Price's heels nudging the backs of his shoulders. It was erotic, the way Price's body moved in search of pleasure, even splayed and vulnerable. His command didn't falter. "Nnh, Simon, fuck, fuck... Yer mouth's a bloody treat, sweet'eart."

Simon growled and pulled off, leaving strings of saliva and cum to trail down his chin to the tip of Price's cock as he stared up the naked length of him to the mischievous blue eyes watching him. Price knew what he was doing. Knew how he was baiting Simon to fuck him until his legs didn't work and his throat was raw from the moaning. Simon's cock ached, the brush of soft fleece enough to make him rut forward against the mattress in search of pleasure. "C'mon, Simon. Fuck me," Price snarled, strong thighs testing Simon's grip on them.

Simon surged up his body to smash their mouths together, teeth catching chapped lips, the taste of copper between them as he snatched the bottle of lube from where Price had chucked it in full anticipation of the railing he was about to receive. Simon squirmed out of his joggers, thick cock rutting into the sweat and spit slick skin of Price's hip, fisting the bed sheets with one hand as he gathered enough self control to tilt to the side and soak his cock in lube. A messy fist smoothed the gel down to the base before gathering Price's legs up his torso, his tip pushing into the snug grip of Price's hole.

"Mmf, fuck, slow, slow... Fuckin hells," Price snarled, nails biting into the side of Simon's neck as Simon quivered under the strain of self control. He rolled his hips in short, measured thrusts, easing in slowly, hunching down to kiss the grimace of concentration off of Price's face.

Simon was a decent length, nothing to sniff at, but it was the girth that truly satisfied, left people wrecked. It had taken previous lovers time to work up to and even Price, practiced and experienced, huffed deep breaths as his body yielded to it. "God bloody fuck, mm..." Price cussed, pushing his head back as he rocked up to meet Simon's hips, sliding himself up and down the full length of him. "Yeah, tha's it, right... Ah, right there, Simon, fuckin... Ah."

He was fucking beautiful like this. Beautiful. There weren't a word that fitted better. Blue eyes misty, his head thrown back, the flush of pleasure down his neck, splashed across his furred chest. His legs spread wide and wanton as Simon's fat cock sank into his greedy hole. Simon wanted to look, but he also wanted to taste, his teeth scraping through the scruff of Price's beard on their way to his neck. The pace was sweet torture, the pleasure curling up his spine, his balls pulled tight, sinking in all the way to the hilt, hoping Price'd be able to feel him in his guts if he thrust deep enough.

"G'wan, fuck me proper, boy," Price rasped, rewarded almost immediately with a firm thrust that startled a yelp out of him. It was all the encouragement Simon needed, gathering Price's legs to his shoulders as he began to piston his hips at a relentless pace, fucking hard and fast into the warm, wet clutch of Price's body.

Simon loved making Price loud, his bitten off cusses peppered with lower moans, gasps that almost bled into whines when Simon found the right angle. It was a complete and utter fracture of his iron control, and Simon revelled in it. His own noises ran away with him; snarls, growls, Price's name, his title, sir. The dizzying pleasure unspooled through him from head to toe, the day's tension burning out of his muscles with every pant of exertion, Price's body milking his cock with the most delicious friction.

Price didn't touch himself. He never did at first. He liked being fucked; liked the way a thick cock felt as it spread him open and pounded his prostate, his hands fisting the bed sheets as he met each thrust, demanding. When Simon shifted onto his feet, curving Price's hips up until he was fucking down into him like an animal mounting a mate, deeper, harder, than before, Price finally fisted his cock in search of his building release.

Simon lost track of anything but the heat of Price's hole, the pulsing clutch of it around his prick, the increasingly desperate noises each of his thrusts punched out of Price's chest. His orgasm curled up his spine, pulling taut in his muscles, his balls high and tight as he held off until the end he desired.

Price's hand stuttered and then he was spilling, thick ropes of cum splashed over his chest and neck, his impressive cock throbbing and flicking in the circle of his fingers as he teased himself through the aftershocks. Simon went to pull out, but Price snarled, "Don't you... fuckin dare. "

It flicked a switch in Simon's head, cut the final thread of a chord that had kept him tethered, and he began to rut like the animal he was. The wet slap of his hips grew louder as he chased his high, Price's groans broken around the pain-pleasure of overstimulation, his hole more lax post orgasm, relaxed, sloppy with lube and precum, the noise of Simon's cock fucking into it as obscene as his command to be bred full that punched out in the next breath. "Fuckin... breed me, Simon."

Simon came with a bitten off shout, grinding down into Price 's body as his balls emptied in hot, heavy pulses. Price moaned, pressing up into Simon's hips, rocking slowly as Simon's stuttering thrusts ended with him staying as deep as he could until his cock had stopped twitching, brimming Price with a week's worth of frustrated build up.

"Fuckin hell," Simon rasped, slumping down onto his elbow as he drew out, satisfied by the wetness that covered Price's thighs in the aftermath, and the puffy redness of his fucked out hole.

"Hope they do," Price murmured, shaking legs dropping off the edge of the bed. Simon slumped onto his back, and Price rolled onto his side, following him. "You broken?"

"Nah. Fuckin knackered."

Price barked a laugh. "Simon 'One Nut Wonder' Riley."

"Fuck off," Simon blustered through a laugh of his own. "Aren't you meant to be gettin' a limp dick at your age anyway?"

"Watch it," Price shot back, but without heat. He patted around blindly for his cigarettes and lighter, striking one up between his lips. He took a toke before passing it across to Simon, who puffed smoke at the ceiling thoughtfully.

"Surprised maintenance haven't beasted you for that smoke alarm yet."

"They'd have to catch me first."

"Wiley bastard."

Price smirked as Simon passed the cigarette back, smoke curling from his nose as they both gazed thoughtfully into the dark above them, comfortable and quiet in the afterglow.

They fucked again a few more times that night; slower, closer to lovers than the raw fuck of earlier, and Simon spooned up behind his captain, thrusting into him as he tenderly kissed his neck, drawing out softer moans and praise. "Yeah, Simon... Mm, fuck, that's, ah, ah, please..." The way Price arched into him, muscular body spreading itself eagerly to be pleasured, gravelly voice demanding and pleading in equal measure, made Simon heady with lust and adoration.

Simon wasn't sure what the fuck they had, what it was called; he knew it was wrong by the standards of the service, but they'd have to pry it out of his cold dead hands.

#captain john price #simon ghost riley #ghostprice #priceghost #cod #call of duty

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water-to-drink · 2 months ago

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How They Became Attracted to You pt2

(Characters): Sethos, Ayato, Itto, & Thoma

(Synopsis): First meetings with the most popular or influential students at the academy and how their love for you blossomed

(Tags/Warnings): gn!reader, school au, stalking, Kaeya is called a whore and a harlot in this, reader gets tackled, reader is an artist, (if I missed anything lmk)

(Word Count): 1.7k

(A/n): Sorry there’s none of the female characters in this one, tell me which characters you want to see in the next one

Part one

Sethos

🏜️ Like Ayaka, he saw you in the hallway with your sketchbook in hand or you drawing in it but instead of leaving you be, Sethos walked up to you and began to introduce himself. He goes on about how he rarely sees you talking with anyone and he wants to change that

🏜️ Just like that you were adopted by an extrovert. Sethos would find you and immediately talk to you, at first you went along with it because you didn’t have the guts to tell him to leave you alone and you wanted to be more social. After a couple of days you soon warmed up to his presence around you all the time

🏜️ You and Sethos would talk to each other and laugh at each other’s jokes, to him your humor came natural and often times caught him off guard making him double over in laughter. Sethos would introduce you to one of his friends and you got along great with him, Sethos’ heart swelled with joy seeing you spread your wings

🏜️ That was until he saw you with Kaeya, laughing and acting all buddy-buddy with him. A twinge of jealousy bubbled in his chest, sure he wanted you to be more social but not with him of all people! He’ll only break your heart after he got what he wanted

🏜️ Though Sethos doesn’t encourage stalking, but in this instance it’s warranted. Following you and that whore, he saw something that he feared the most. The look in his eye, it’s love!

🏜️ Sethos vowed to himself that he would protect you from that harlot and totally not to potentially have a relationship with you. No sir, Sethos doesn’t want to hold your hand nor kiss you on your soft lips. Obviously not! He’s just looking out for a friend

Ayato

🧋Isn’t stupid, as part of the student council and eldest son to the Kamisato family Ayato is more than familiar to picking up on whether people are hiding something from him, especially his dearest sister. He noticed that Ayaka seemed different, more happy and she won’t tell him what’s going on in her life (so mean (´༎ຶོρ༎ຶོ`) )

🧋 So as any loving brother Ayato sent members of the Shuumatsuban to follow his sister and to his surprise they followed her to a rinky dink cafe. The more interesting fact is that they found her talking to a waiter, you in fact, and both of you seemed very close. With his interest peaked Ayato had the Shuumatsuban follow you now

🧋 They pulled up the most basic information on you, coming from a low income family gave the blue haired student pause. Are you trying to warm up to his sister in attempt to get money from her? He can’t have someone trying to take advantage of his family, so time to delve in deeper. Having his spies enter the cafe and watch while you chat with Ayaka, an interesting thing came up during the investigation. Ayaka didn’t give much details about the family, only the fact that she has a brother who goes to the same school as her. Well at least that quells one of his concerns that you aren’t after their money

🧋 Maybe finally his dear sister has a friend that she can talk to like a normal girl and maybe he can check out your family’s cafe when Ayaka isn’t there and talk to you. But he has to be sure of that and so he investigated you even more

🧋 The more info they got, i.e. photos and videos, the more he finds you interesting. You’re so quick and witty with your responses with the few friends you have, even though he has the Shuumatsuban following your every move and sending Ayato the reports he feels that he’s right there with you. This goes on for a couple of weeks and soon it isn’t enough for him to just watch you on his phone, he has to talk to you in person. “Be natural” is what he told himself as he walked into your family’s cafe and took a seat in one of the booths

“Hello sir, what can I start you with?”

“Just black coffee.”

“Okay.” You said before you went to get the coffee pot and return to pour some in a white mug. “Would that be all sir?”

“Yes, and please call me Ayato.” The blue haired man spoke

🧋 Ayato made small talk and quickly found out that you were a shy little thing, cute. You nervously answered his questions and asked some yourself, obviously trying to be more social. It was clear that you weren’t fully out of your shell but he’ll take what can get. However as the hours rolled past you slowly showed that witty nature you had. Ayato never had so much fun talking to someone before, he was sad that once closing time arrived and thus had to leave. No matter there’s always next time, for your time the young man gave you a 100 dollar note. He loved the look of shock on your face

“Sir I can’t expect this!” You put the 100 back in his hands. “I had a good time but, I can’t take it in good conscience!”

🧋 Ohh he’s going to have fun spoiling you

Itto

🪲 Your first time meeting wasn’t too romantic or special, it was more chaotic to say the least. One day after school Itto was looking for the onikabuto he found earlier today, he had a feeling that bug would be his champion! While scouring the hallways the one heard a scream. So as any unreasonable person would do he ran into the classroom to see you about to slam your sketchbook on his meal ticket!

🪲 The obvious thing to do is to tackle you to the ground, don’t worry he used his hand to shield your head from hitting the floor. When he first got a good look at you, the larger student thought that you were cute. The look of shock was what snapped him out of it and made him get off of you

“I’m so sorry, but you were about to step on my onikabuto!”

🪲 You were still shaken up as you watched the oni pick up the bug and put it in the breast pocket of his blazer, feeling your hands empty you look around and don’t see what you’re looking for, until your eyes lands on the open window and your heart instantly drops

“Ack! My sketchbook!” You yelled out upon seeing your precious work in the school pond

“Don’t worry I’ll go get it!” The oni said

🪲 You watched as the white haired oni run out the room and out the building, he picked it up and threw you a thumbs up. Finally coming back to the classroom, Itto handed you the sopping sketchbook

“Thanks…” you said

“Uhhh, I’ll make it up to you! I swear on my oni pride!”

“You don’t have to. It’s fine.”

🪲 It wasn’t fine to Itto, he thrashed your book and so he has to make it up to you. The day after that little event Itto would find you at lunch and buy you milk cream bread from the canteen, he would sit with you on the roof and watch you draw much to your dismay

🪲 Itto would excitedly ask you about the characters and came to learn you like a lot of the manga that he likes! The more time Itto spends talking with you he sees you as one of the guys in the gang, no definitely more than that. Maybe a best friend, or a super friend? Whatever he just likes spending time with you

Thoma

🧹 Someone who met you at your family’s cafe, he knew you before you entered the academy. He comes in whenever he can to get away from the hectic schedule being one of the many secretaries of the student council and right hand of Kamisato Ayato. Not to mention he has to run all around campus either dropping stuff off or getting items, but here it’s still and quiet. A time to himself

🧹 Since the cafe isn’t well known and often times empty except for a few elderly customers drinking coffee, you know Thoma on a first name basis. He’s a bit of a regular and you know his order by heart. A croissant sandwich with a latte. You would sit and talk about stuff with the blond, you actually have a lot of stuff in common

🧹 You two relate to each other, not coming from well off backgrounds but against all odds both of you got accepted into a prestigious school. He knows the feeling of being looked down upon and having to keep your head up the whole time. Hell, the reason he joined the student council was to be respected like everyone else, but now he’s seen as the student council’s errand boy, here he can be him and not Ayato’s secretary

🧹 Sure he works hard, but seeing you work whenever the cafe gets a little spike in customers just inspires him to work even harder. The sight still stays with him as he is running some errands back on campus. He vows to get good grades, go to a good college, get a good job and hopefully support you

🧹 In his little fantasy of you two being married Thoma didn’t see where he was going and bumped into someone in the hallway. The papers in his hands scattered across the hallway, the poor boy profusely apologized to you as he picked up all of the papers and ran off to wherever he was originally going. Once back at the student council room, Thoma sorted through the papers and find a drawing of him sitting at the cafe. A piece of art in the blond’s eyes, he wonder how it got there

“Uhh excuse me?”

🧹 Thoma turns around to see you at the door looking down at your feet, he instantly thought that you looked cute in the school uniform

“I think you got something of mines.”

🧹 The blond hands you the drawing of him and a sudden look of realization and then horror appears on your face. You apologize profusely

“Thoma! I just was trying to do a still life to expand my portfolio!” You nervously explained

“It’s nothing, it’s actually pretty good. I can be your model if you want.” Thoma scratched the side of his face

“Ehhh?”

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kiwriteswords · 10 days ago

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Do you believe in life after love? [Aaron Hotchner x Haley's Best Friend!Reader]

Masterlist || Ao3||Word Count: 7.6k|| AN: I teased this story like...months ago, yet here we are now. Sorry for the wait! I hope it was worth it?

Tags/Warnings: female reader, mentions of Haley Hotchner, spoiler to Haley Hotchner's fate, canon-typical themes, non-BAU!Reader, Reader is Haley's best friend, reconnection, hurt/comfort, angst, mentions of Jack Hotchner, love after loss, potential for a part 2.

Summary: Years after Haley Hotchner's passing, Hotchner reunites with you, Haley's best friend, at Jessica's party. He never imagined the shared understanding of loss, love, and life would be within the comfort of your arms.

At Jessica's home, children's laughter sliced through the air. Aaron Hotchner stood slightly apart from the clusters of Brooks' family and friends, his gaze anchored by the sight of his son, Jack, who was cheerfully navigating the throng of party-goers.

Jack’s laughter, free and unabashed, was a balm to the ever-present ache in Aaron’s chest. An ache carved from years of accumulated loss and duty.

You arrived quietly, almost slipping into the backyard unnoticed, save for a single moment when your eyes found Aaron’s across the space.

It was as if the years peeled back in a sharp, sudden tug at his memory. You looked just as surprised to see him, your expression treading a line between joy and a sorrow that mirrored his own.

The last time Aaron had seen you was at Haley’s funeral, a day when grief had rendered him nearly unrecognizable to himself, a shadow amid the stark reality of his loss. A day that altered his life forever, yet still felt so fresh. So far away. So much all at once.

“Aaron?” Jessica’s voice was soft, but it sliced through his reverie like a delicate knife. She gestured to you, “You remember, right? Haley’s best friend.”

Of course, he remembered. How could he not? The friendship you shared with Haley had been a tapestry of confidences and laughter, woven into the fabric of their lives.

Now, as you approached, the years collapsed into a single, acute moment of nostalgia and what-ifs.

“Hello, Aaron,” you said, your voice a gentle echo of a past that once seemed filled with endless possibilities. Your smile was tentative as if you were reaching across a chasm not just of time but of all the words left unsaid since then.

He managed to breathe your name, his voice rough with emotions held too tightly in check. “It’s been a long time,” He paused, “Too long.”

The party buzzed around you both, a tableau of normalcy that felt oddly jarring. Jack ran up then, grabbing Aaron’s hand with a sticky one, his face alight with the simple joy of a child at a Aaron’s eyes softened as he looked down at his son, the spitting image of joy and innocence. “In a minute, buddy.” He promised, ruffling Jack’s hair before turning back to you. You were watching Jack with an affection that spoke volumes, reconnecting Aaron not just to the present but to all the might-have-beens.

“He’s wonderful, Aaron. Just like you,” you murmured, and the compliment lodged in his throat, thick and hard to swallow.

“Thanks,” he managed quietly, the words strained as he tried to dislodge the tightness in his throat. “Haley would have loved this—seeing him so happy.”

Your eyes met his again, and he saw in them a reflection of his own pain. A shared sorrow for the life and friend you both missed. “She would have,” you agreed, your voice a mere whisper amidst the surrounding noise.

The compliment knotted in his throat, thick and hard to swallow. He often found similarities between himself and his son. Oftentimes, it was a cruel mirror into his own personality--stubborn at times, strong-willed, orderly. Then, there were times when Jack was all Haley. With a quick whip response and those eyes, Aaron often felt he was back in a room with a young Haley Brooks.

As the afternoon shadows grew longer, casting a golden, melancholic light over the yard, Aaron found himself drawn into the easy rhythm of your conversation. It was as if each word you spoke was a thread, reconnecting him to a world he had thought permanently severed from him.

There was a time when you had been so intertwined into his personal life that you were, without question, always there. Birthdays, holidays, and random occasions from high school until the divorce, you were Haley’s right hand.

You talked of your travels, your career, the life you had built—a life impressive and full yet tinged with an undercurrent of solitude that Aaron understood all too well.

“You’ve done well for yourself,” Aaron said, his words not just an observation but a quiet acknowledgment of the sacrifices such a life demanded

You shrugged, a graceful tilt of your head that belied the depth of your reflection. “I’ve tried. It’s not quite what I imagined when we were all planning our futures, but…” You paused, searching for the right words. “But it’s full of chapters worth reading, even the sad ones.”

The simplicity of your metaphor struck him, the poetry of it winding through his thoughts like a vine. “I think that’s all we can ask for,” he replied, the sound of children playing a distant, sweet symphony. “Chapters worth reading.”

As the party dwindled and the evening chill settled in, Aaron felt the weight of the day begin to lift, feather-light, as if your presence had somehow begun to ease the burden he carried. Watching Jack wave goodbye to you, he realized that perhaps what he needed was not to forget, but to remember—to reconnect with those who could speak Haley’s name and share in the beauty and pain of her memory.

“Would you like to meet for coffee sometime?” Aaron asked as you were about to leave, the question an olive branch extended into the dimming light of the day.

Your smile in response was soft, yet it held the warmth of a thousand sunlit mornings. “I’d like that,” you said. And as you walked away, Aaron watched, a sense of peace settling around him like a promise, whispering of new beginnings formed from the fragments of past lives.

Not long after, the coffee shop was a quiet haven from the bustling city outside, a small universe encapsulated by the scent of freshly ground beans and the soft murmur of other patrons lost in their own worlds. Aaron Hotchner sat across from you, his fingers wrapped around a steaming cup, his eyes occasionally meeting yours before skirting away, as if direct contact might unravel him completely.

You stirred your coffee absentmindedly, the clink of the spoon against the ceramic cup punctuating the silence that had settled between you. The conversation had started easily enough—casual updates on life, work, mutual acquaintances—but now it meandered, lost, avoiding the one subject that linked you irreparably to one another. Haley Brooks Hotcner.

Aaron thought back to a hallucination he'd had of Haley when unconscious, “He’s not like you, Aaron. He needs words.”

That memory now echoed in his mind, a stark reminder of his limitations.

He watched you now, your expression thoughtful, your gaze occasionally flitting to the window as if the answers might be found in the passersby or the fall of rain against the glass. It was clear you felt it too--the weight of the unspoken, the shadow of a shared loss that was as much a part of you as your own heartbeat.

“You know, I sometimes think I’ve spent more time with ghosts than with the living,” Aaron said suddenly, his voice low, his words cutting through the noise of the shop. It was as if he couldn’t bear the silence any longer, the distance it created.

Your eyes snapped back to his, a flash of surprise there before it settled into a deep, understanding sadness. “Me too,” you confessed, the admission hanging between you, heavy and palpable. “I think that’s why I bury myself in work. If I’m always moving, maybe I won’t notice how much I miss her.”

Aaron nodded, the ghost of a smile touching his lips, not in amusement but in recognition. “I see her sometimes in Jack. In the way he laughs or the expressions he makes when he’s lost in thought. It’s both wonderful and…and heartbreaking.”

You reached across the table, your hand hovering over his for a moment before making contact. The warmth of your touch was a stark contrast to the coolness of his own skin. “She’d be proud of him, Aaron. Of you, too.”

The simplicity of your words was a balm to his frayed edges. Here, in this quiet coffee shop, you offered him a reflection of himself not as a failure or a broken man but as someone enduring, someone still capable of being seen as good in the eyes of another.

Then, there was this bitter taste in his mouth. Something deep within him could not agree with this, knowing, in part, he was at fault for his late wife’s death.

“I’ve been trying to keep her memory alive for him, but it’s hard,” he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. “He’s getting older, and I’m afraid he’s starting to forget her.”

“You’re doing your best, Aaron. That’s all she would have wanted,” you said, squeezing his hand gently before pulling back. “And maybe it’s okay to let the memories shift a bit, as long as we keep the essence of her in our lives. We remember her, not just by reliving the past but by living our lives fully because that’s what she would have wanted.”

Aaron let out a breath he hadn’t realized he’d been holding. There was a certain poetry in your words, a gentle reminder that life, like a river, was constantly moving, reshaping the landscape of memory with gentle, persistent currents.

“You always were the wise one,” he said, a genuine smile breaking through the clouds of his demeanor for the first time since you’d sat down.

“And you always pretended to listen,” you teased back, the familiar banter a light in the dimness of the past hour.

As you both laughed, the weight of the conversation didn’t lessen, but it seemed, for the moment, more bearable.

Aaron realized then that healing might not come from forgetting or even from remembering but from allowing those who understood the depth of your pain to walk beside you, even if the path was one of heartache and recovery.

With you, he didn’t need to navigate his grief alone, and perhaps, in this shared journey, there was a kind of solace to be found.

Coffee had gone so well--felt so well, you invited Aaron and Jack over for dinner one night. When both of your busy schedules aligned, it felt right to spend a night off with each other.

The evening light spilled golden and warm across your dining room, transforming the ordinary into something akin to a painting—one of those still life canvases where every detail felt intentional, every shadow perfectly placed.

You had prepared dinner, the aroma of seasoned herbs and roasted vegetables filling the air with an inviting scent, while Aaron and Jack had arrived with dessert in tow—double chocolate cupcakes, recalling your well-known fondness for anything cocoa.

Jack had quickly found solace in the corner of the living room, building fortresses from old blocks and the occasional shout of triumph drifting into the kitchen. It left Aaron and you in the quiet bubble of the kitchen, a space that seemed to encourage confidences as naturally as it welcomed the warmth from the oven.

As you both set the table, a rhythm developed between you, a dance of old friends comfortable in each other’s orbit. The initial awkwardness that might have clung to the edges of the evening fell away, piece by piece, as you began to share stories of the past, laughter mingling with the clink of dishes and the soft background hum of the refrigerator.

“I still remember when Haley tried to bake that cake for my thirtieth birthday,” Aaron said, the corners of his eyes crinkling with the memory. It was as if this once suppressed memory was at the forefront of his mind--fresh, as if it were just yesterday. “She was so determined it would be perfect.”

You laughed, the sound bright and clear. “It was perfect, if you were aiming for something resembling a volcanic eruption. I think we found frosting on the ceiling for weeks afterward.”

Aaron’s laugh joined yours, a sound that felt like it was pulled from a deeper place than he’d visited in a long time. “She was always so ambitious in the kitchen. Never quite had the timing down, though.”

The ease with which Haley’s name came up in conversation surprised him; there was no tightening in his chest, no swift detour to safer topics. Here, with you, it felt natural, a sharing of joy rather than a reopening of wounds.

“You know, she used to say the same about you and dancing,” you teased, nudging him gently with your elbow as you passed him a stack of plates.

“That’s slander,” Aaron protested, but the grin on his face belied his words. “I’ll have you know I’ve improved considerably since then.”

“Is that so?” You raised an eyebrow, amusement sparkling in your eyes. “I’ll believe it when I see it.”

Dinner passed in a similar vein, with Jack occasionally chiming in with the earnestness only a child could muster, his stories and questions weaving through the fabric of the conversation, adding his own threads to the tapestry of the evening.

As Jack eventually excused himself, retreating back to his makeshift fortress with a cupcake clutched triumphantly in his hand, you and Aaron lingered at the table, the remnants of dinner before you, the room dimming as the sun set beyond the window.

“It feels good, you know,” Aaron said after a moment, his voice soft, reflective. “Talking about her like this. I didn’t realize how much I missed just… remembering her with someone who knew her as well as I did.”

You reached across the table, your hand brushing against his. “Haley was... iis a part of us. We carry her in our stories, Aaron. It’s okay to smile when we speak her name.”

The profound simplicity of your words settled around him, a gentle embrace. It wasn’t about moving on from Haley, but rather allowing her memory to live in moments of joy and shared laughter, not just in silent reverence.

“Thank you,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper, but laden with an earnestness that filled the space between you. “For this, for dinner, for the laughter… it means more than you know.”

The candles flickered low, casting dancing shadows across the table, across your faces. In this light, with the remnants of a meal shared between friends, and the laughter of his son echoing from the other room, Aaron felt a shift. A loosening of the tight bands around his chest, a breath of air fresher than he’d dared to breathe in a long time.

You smiled, a soft, knowing curve of your lips. “Anytime, Aaron. We’re not just bound by our past, but by how we choose to remember it and who we choose to share it with.”

And as the evening wore on, the darkness outside encroaching upon the windows, there was a sense of peace, of something akin to healing. Here, in this place, with you, the ghosts of the past felt less like specters and more like guardians, their presence a comfort rather than a chain.

Haley didn’t feel so far away anymore.

In the weeks following the dinner at your place, Aaron and you carved out moments from your relentlessly demanding schedules to spend time together. These moments were rare gems, sometimes including Jack, sometimes not--opportunities for you two to breathe a little easier.

While Aaron navigated the complexities of running the BAU, you wrestled with the responsibilities of steering a major corporation. The windows of time you both found were brief, yet they were filled with the kind of mutual understanding and ease that Aaron was beginning to realize he found nowhere else.

One evening, after a particularly grueling case that had taken Aaron across state lines and a day that had seen you in back-to-back meetings, you both found yourselves seeking solace in the quiet corner of a familiar bar, the kind of place where the lighting was dim enough to forget the outside world for a few hours.

You were both nursing drinks, the ice clinking softly against the glass in a slow, rhythmic melody. The conversation drifted naturally to the past, to shared memories of Haley, which used to be a field of landmines but now felt more like a sanctuary.

“I remember missing your birthday party when I first got promoted to unit chief,” Aaron said, a hint of old regret coloring his tone. He glanced at you, expecting perhaps a shadow of the old disappointment, but found only understanding.

You laughed softly, the sound gentle and forgiving. “Haley told me about that fight you two had. It was one of the first times she really got mad about your job, wasn’t it?”

He winced at the memory, nodding. “It was, the beginning of…the beginning of many. I hated missing it, but there was a case…there’s always a case…”

“I know,” you said, your voice a mixture of empathy and amusement. “I felt like such a hypocrite back then, trying to support her but secretly getting where you were coming from. I told her more than once, ‘You knew who you were marrying.’”

Aaron looked at you, a soft smile playing on his lips. “And yet, here we are, both slaves to our work.”

You raised your glass in a mock salute. “Guilty as charged. But you know, you always had that drive, even back in school. Always the one aiming to be the best, even if it meant sacrificing a few parties.”

He couldn’t help but smile genuinely at that, the familiarity of your teasing a comfort in itself. “Guess some things don’t change,” he admitted. The warmth in your eyes told him you didn’t really mind that part of him—at least, not anymore.

“Doesn’t mean we can’t try to find a better balance now,” you suggested, your tone light but serious. It was an invitation, he realized, to keep creating moments like these despite the chaos of their lives.

Aaron nodded, feeling the weight of the day begin to lift slightly at the prospect. “Isn’t that what we’re doing now?” You smiled.

The conversation drifted then to lighter topics, but a new understanding hung between you two, a silent acknowledgment of past hardships and a mutual commitment to do better in the future.

And as the night wore on, the two of you shared more stories, more laughs, each moment weaving a new layer into the fabric of your rekindling relationship.

It was these threads, spun from old and new yarn alike, that began to form a picture neither of you had anticipated—one richer and more colorful than either of your solitary lives.

And as Aaron walked you to your car later that evening, the chill of the night air couldn’t compete with the warmth he felt inside. It was a warmth that came from shared histories, from understanding, from the possibility of a future where both could maybe, finally, find a balance.

The next time you met up, in the sprawling park where you had decided to spend the afternoon, Jack was a small figure of boundless energy, darting between trees and playground structures with the uninhibited joy that only a child could harness. Aaron and you sat on a nearby bench, an island of calm observance in the sea of laughter and distant shouts.

Casually, almost as if the question had been carried to him on the gentle breeze, Aaron turned to you. "Did you ever think about settling down?"

His voice was soft, careful, not wanting to disturb the ease of the afternoon. Looking around, he wondered if this was a life you ever wanted for yourself.

You watched Jack for a moment, considering the question. The answer felt weighted, more substantial in his presence. "It was hard," you began, your eyes still following Jack's movements. "I just never found the one who could understand me, you know?"

There was a pause, the kind filled with the rustling of leaves and the distant call of birds. Then you turned to him, your gaze thoughtful. "What about you, Aaron? Did you ever think about putting yourself out there again after Haley?"

He followed your gaze back to Jack, a soft sigh escaping him. "I tried once—with someone named Beth. But the timing was never right." Aaron’s words hung briefly in the air. "I found it hard to open up about Haley. It was like this... elephant in the room with her."

Your response was gentle, tinged with understanding. "It doesn’t feel like the elephant in the room when we talk, does it?" The simplicity of your observation struck a chord within him. You continued, "Haley was my best friend. Losing her, I became so closed off.” You let out a breath of frustration with yourself, “I understand you, Aaron. Maybe not in the same way, but…but I do get it."

He nodded, the autumn sunlight catching in his eyes, lending them a momentary sparkle. "With you, I can talk about Haley without the pain overwhelming me. And I don’t feel the need to hide that pain to protect you because... because you miss her just the same."

It was true; with you, Haley’s memory was a shared space, filled with both joy and sorrow, where neither had to tread lightly. Aaron felt a sense of relief, a loosening of a knot inside him that he hadn’t even realized was there until now.

"You know," Aaron started, turning to look at you fully. "It's strange, but talking to you about her, about everything really, it makes me feel like I'm not just living in the past, but that I'm actually moving forward."

Your smile then was like a warm blanket, comforting and inviting. "That’s because we are moving forward, Aaron. We’re carrying her with us, not letting her drag us back."

You reached for his hand on his lap then, covering it with your own. It was like instinct for him to turn his hand and hold yours. Neither of you pointed it out or moved, but sat there intertwined.

Jack's laughter broke through the seriousness of your conversation, pulling both your attention back to the present. Watching him play, a symbol of life's relentless march forward, seemed to underline your words.

Aaron felt a profound gratitude then, not just for your presence, which had become a steady beacon in his recent life, but for the peace that came with it…a peace that allowed him to look at the future with a sense of hope, rather than just duty.

Then again, life happens and Aaron Hotchner was far from the perfect person. He clung to old habits like a lifeline, and compartmentalizing was one of them.

It was only days later, when Aaron picked up the phone, his voice was flat, the edges sharp with fatigue. "I think I need to cancel our coffee today," he said, each word heavier than the last. The recent case had dredged up memories best left buried, memories of a mother's tragic end and a child hiding just a room away—echoes of his own past horrors with Haley and Jack.

On the other end of the line, your intuition cut through his attempted nonchalance. "Aaron, you're self-isolating again. It's not good for you," you countered, your voice firm yet laced with concern. "You've always been your own worst enemy in these moments."

He sighed, a sound that spoke of battles fought silently within. "I just need some time—"

"No," you interjected, the decision clear in your tone. "I'm coming over. Don’t argue with me."

Moments later, you were at his door. A tray with two coffees in one hand, still in your crisp business attire, a stark contrast to Aaron's disheveled appearance. He looked worn, like a book left out in the rain, pages wrinkled and ink run. He opened the door with a look that was less than amused but resigned, knowing better than to argue with you.

Without waiting for an invitation, you stepped inside, closing the door behind you with a soft click that seemed to seal off the outside world. You reached for his hand, his skin cool and slightly rough, pulling him gently but with undeniable resolve toward the couch.

Placing the coffee tray on the table, Hotch noticed one cup marked just how he liked his, the other…just how you took yours.

"Talk to me," you urged as you both sat down, your presence a grounding force.

He hesitated, his gaze fixed on his hands. The silence stretched, thin and taut, until it was filled with his deep, uneven breaths. "It was a mother," he began, the words catching slightly. "Killed while her child hid in the next room. I couldn't stop thinking about—about Haley. And Jack." His voice was a raw whisper, stripped of the usual composure.

You leaned closer, your shoulder brushing against his, a silent signal of support. "It’s okay to feel this, Aaron. It’s human. And it’s okay to talk about it, especially with me."

Aaron looked at you then, his brown eyes searching yours for something like absolution. "Every time it feels like I'm back there again. Not just remembering, but reliving it. I’m supposed to be past this."

"Being past it doesn't mean forgetting, Aaron. It doesn’t mean you won’t ever feel it again," you said softly. "It means you learn how to carry it with you without letting it pull you under. And you let people help carry it with you."

He absorbed your words, the tension in him unwinding slightly. "It’s hard. I always think I need to protect everyone—from the job, from my past. From myself."

"But you don’t need to protect me," you reassured him, your hand finding his, fingers intertwining naturally. "Not from this. I knew Haley, too. I lost her as well. And I know you."

That connection, the shared past and understanding, seemed to reach him, soothing the rough edges of his pain. "Thank you," he said after a long pause, his voice steadier. "For not letting me push you away."

"As if you could," you replied with a gentle smile, the kind that warmed him from the inside out, making the shadows in his mind recede just a bit.

As the silence settled between you and Aaron, thick with shared understanding and newly voiced fears, something shifted perceptibly in the atmosphere. He glanced at you, seeing not just the friend he had known for years, but a beacon in the often tumultuous storm of his life. Your presence, always reassuring, seemed especially vital today.

"Thank you," he murmured again, the words inadequate for the gratitude swirling within him. Slowly, almost hesitantly, Aaron opened his arms—an invitation rather than an imposition. You didn’t hesitate; you leaned into him, and he enveloped you in an embrace.

It was a simple hug, initially meant to be a brief comfort, but the moment your arms wrapped around him, something profound stirred in Aaron’s chest. How long had it been since he received this level of comfort?

The warmth from your body, the gentle pressure of your arms around him, it was grounding, a tangible reminder that he wasn’t alone. His own arms tightened slightly, pulling you closer, and he closed his eyes, allowing himself to just feel.

The sensation was unexpectedly healing. Here, in this quiet embrace, the world’s demands faded to a distant murmur. Aaron’s breaths deepened, syncing with yours, and a sense of calm spread through him. It had been so long since he’d allowed himself the simple comfort of a heartfelt hug--it was a balm to the lingering ache of old scars, a reminder that physical closeness could bridge the gaps words sometimes couldn’t.

He realized, perhaps for the first time, how starved he had been for this kind of simple, human connection. With you, it felt right, unforced, and incredibly soothing.

The hug spoke of mutual losses and mutual support, a physical manifestation of the emotional scaffolding you had built together over your recent conversations.

As you finally pulled back, there was a softness in his gaze, a thankfulness. "I needed that more than I knew," Aaron confessed, his voice a low rumble that resonated with newfound clarity.

"You're not alone, Aaron," you reiterated, your hand squeezing his arm reassuringly. "You don’t have to carry everything by yourself."

That moment, that hug, marked a turning point for him. In the simplicity of that gesture, Aaron found a profound truth—the strength of vulnerability, the courage found in sharing one's burdens. And perhaps most importantly, he recognized the potential for healing, for moving forward not just in solitude, but alongside someone who understood the deepest shadows of his past.

From there, the foundation for something deeper than friendship began to solidify, each shared touch and word laying down another stone.

The following weekend, on a crisp Saturday afternoon, Aaron found himself at a local park. You were there too, a serene figure seated on a bench, a book forgotten in your lap as you watched Jack spiritedly kick a soccer ball across the grass. The scene was bathed in soft, gentle sunlight, turning mundane moments into something akin to a painted landscape.

As Aaron approached, your face lit up with a genuine smile, the kind that reached your eyes and tugged at something deep within him—a realization that moments like these had become the highlights of his week.

“Hey,” he greeted, his voice carrying a warmth reserved just for these occasions.

“Hi, Aaron,” you responded, your attention shifting fully to him. Jack noticed his arrival, too and ran over, his face flushed with the exertion and excitement. After a quick hug and a rundown of his self-proclaimed spectacular goals, Jack returned to his game, leaving you and Aaron in a comfortable solitude.

Sitting beside you, Aaron felt an ease settle around him, the kind that only your presence could bring. The park around them buzzed with life, children’s laughter piercing through the air like music notes, but on your shared bench, there was a bubble of peaceful quiet.

“It’s beautiful today,” you commented, gesturing subtly at the scenery around you.

“It is,” Aaron agreed, but his eyes were on you, appreciating the way the sunlight danced across your features. The scene was idyllic, almost painfully so, highlighting what life could be—what he wanted it to be. And as he watched you, a thought crystallized in his mind, clear and urgent in its sudden appearance.

He turned to you fully, his expression contemplative, the lines of duty and years softening in the tranquil park setting.

“I’ve been doing a lot of thinking,” Aaron began, his voice carrying a weight that hinted at the gravity of his thoughts. His eyes met yours, seeking a sign of readiness for the words he was about to share.

You nodded, encouraging him to continue, your own expression a mirror of openness and quiet support.

“It’s about us. How we’ve…we have been spending more time together. It’s made a significant difference, at least for me. For Jack, too, I know that,” he said, his gaze drifting to where Jack was playing before settling back on you. “I find myself looking forward to our moments together... more than I anticipated.”

The admission hung in the air, tender and formidable. You took a deep breath, visibly moved by his honesty. “Aaron, I feel the same,” you replied softly. “There’s a comfort with you, a familiarity that doesn’t just stem from knowing each other as awkward teenagers.”

Aaron’s heart thudded with a mix of relief and burgeoning joy. This was the confirmation he needed, yet he proceeded with caution, aware of the delicate threads of a new beginning being woven between them.

Following the conversation in the park, the meetups, phone calls, and comfort continued as usual. The new normal. A normal neither of you could do without.

In the soft glow of the BAU’s late evening lights, Aaron Hotchner was hastily packing up his things, his movements brisk and somewhat scattered.

A rare sight for someone usually so composed. His briefcase snapped shut, a sound crisp in the quiet of the near-empty office. As he stood to leave, Rossi, ever observant, stood in the doorway of his office and raised an eyebrow.

“Got a hot date or something?” Rossi’s tone was teasing, but his eyes were sharp, missing nothing.

“No, just dinner with a friend,” Aaron replied, adjusting his tie out of habit more than necessity. “La Vie?” Aaron listed off the restaurant, knowing the foodie in Rossi would ask that next.

Rossi chuckled, leaning against the doorway. “That’s a pretty fancy restaurant for just a friend, isn’t it?”

Aaron paused, a slight flush creeping up his neck. “No? We're just catching up. The food is supposed to be good there?”

“Is this friend a woman?” Rossi prodded, his interest piqued, ignoring Aaron’s not-so-subtle change in direction.

“Yes, but--”

“Haley’s best friend?” Rossi interrupted, putting pieces together in the way only a seasoned profiler could. “The one you’ve reconnected with?”

“Yes, that’s right.” Aaron’s response was guarded, his FBI training kicking in despite the personal nature of the conversation.

Rossi studied him for a moment, then pushed forward off the doorway, standing straighter. “Is she single?”

Aaron frowned, not following Rossi’s line of questioning. “Dave, why does that matter?”

Rossi sighed, a knowing look in his eyes. “Come on, Aaron. Haven’t you ever thought about more with her? More than just comfort and reminiscing?”

The question caught Aaron off guard. He hesitated, the answer unclear even to himself. It was a possibility he hadn’t allowed himself to fully consider, not yet, maybe not ever. Sure, he knew for a fact, especially after your talk in the park over the weekend that it wasn’t an option to go on without each other’s presence anymore. The gap that had been open for so long had finally been filled by each other’s company. But more?

Rossi, watching the conflict play across Aaron’s features, pressed on, “Is she cute?”

The answer came a little too quickly, a little too sharply. “Yes.” Immediately, Aaron felt a pang of guilt wash over him. This was Haley’s best friend, he chided himself internally.

Rossi noticed the change instantly. “Aaron, listen to me,” he said gently, the tone of a friend rather than a colleague. “You’re not betraying Haley by acknowledging that her friend is attractive or by enjoying her company. It’s been years, my friend. It’s okay to live, to feel, to find happiness again.”

Aaron remained silent, absorbing Rossi’s words. They weren’t just a permission slip; they were a gentle push towards acknowledging a truth he had buried under layers of duty and self-denial.

“You’re not going to war with yourself here,” Rossi added, standing up and clapping a hand on Aaron’s shoulder. “You’re just considering the possibility of happiness. That’s not just allowed; it’s recommended.”

The simplicity of Rossi’s advice, devoid of any professional jargon, was like a light piercing through the fog that had settled around Aaron’s heart.

As he left the office, stepping into the cool night air, his steps felt lighter. He was headed to dinner, not as an obligation, but as a possibility, a chance to explore what might be if he allowed himself just to live in the moment.

Life continued to move fast, but the knowing support was a comfort that Aaron never wanted to take for grated. Throughout the dinners, the coffee, the drinks, the time spent in each of your lives, Aaron’s mind went back to the conversation Rossi proposed. Like most things, Aaron pocketed it for another time.

The air in the Hotchner apartment was alive with the electronic beeps and laughter of children, the walls decorated with colorful banners that mimicked video game screens. Jack, the birthday boy, was in high spirits, buoyed by the excitement of his friends and the attentive care of you currently helping him set up a new game, one he had been gifted today.

As Hotch cleared away the last of the birthday cake--chocolate with vibrant blue icing--Jessica approached him, wiping her hands on a napkin. "You both seem really happy together," she commented casually, observing how you interacted with Jack.

Hotch froze for a moment, a spoonful of cake halfway to the trash bin, feeling as though he'd been caught in an act he hadn't even defined yet. Jessica noticed his reaction and laughed softly, her familiarity with his expressions as clear as day. "Aaron, you're allowed to be happy, you know. Haley would want that for you, and I think she’d be thrilled it's with someone she loved."

"It’s not like that," Aaron responded quickly, a reflex born of years of self-imposed boundaries. He resumed cleaning, his movements a bit more forceful than necessary.

Jessica leaned against the counter, her eyes kind but piercing. "Why couldn't it be like that?" she pressed gently. "You guys could really benefit from letting yourselves get to that place. Think about it."

The conversation paused as you approached, having successfully launched the game for an excited group of kids. Aaron's heart was still racing from Jessica's implications, his mind a swirl of what-ifs and could-bes.

"What did I miss?" you asked, a hint of curiosity lifting your brows as you noticed the serious look between Jessica and Aaron. Aaron watched as you looked between him and Jessica, your brain working quickly to decipher a clear missing scene.

Jessica smiled, mischief twinkling in her eyes. "Just giving this guy some much-needed advice. Think about it, Aaron!" She tapped her temple playfully before walking off to help corral some of the more energetic party-goers.

"Later," Hotch muttered, almost to himself, but loud enough for you to catch.

"Later?" you echoed, your tone light but probing.

Hotch managed a small, somewhat tense smile. "Yeah, something Jessica said. We can talk about it later."

As you nodded, slightly puzzled but undeterred, Hotch's gaze lingered on you a moment longer than usual. The way the light played across your face, the way your laughter seemed to stitch itself into the fabric of his home. It was becoming increasingly difficult to deny how integral you had become to his and Jack's lives.

The rest of the party passed in a blur of games, laughter, and fleeting glances. Aaron found himself watching you more often, seeing not just the friend who had supported him through dark times but a possible future filled with light and shared smiles. Jessica’s words echoed in his mind, a gentle nudge toward a door he hadn’t allowed himself to open. Maybe, just maybe, it was time to consider what lay on the other side.

After the cheerful chaos of Jack’s birthday party dwindled and the last of the guests departed, the apartment settled into a serene quiet. Jack, overwhelmed by the day’s excitement and a substantial sugar intake, had fallen asleep on the couch. Aaron gently scooped him up, carrying him to his bedroom, tucking him in with the tender care that defined his fatherhood.

When Aaron returned to the living room, he found you still there, lingering with a contemplative air. The quiet of the apartment wrapped around you both like a soft shroud, a stark contrast to the day's earlier jubilance.

Aaron’s mind replayed the conversations with Rossi and Jessica, their words about potential and happiness echoing loudly in the calm. He knew it was time to address the unspoken questions that hung between you. He owed it to himself at the very least.

“You know,” Aaron began, his voice low as he sat down across from you, “My coworker, I’ve mentioned to you before…Rossi and now today, Jessica mentioned something to me... about us.”

You met his gaze, your eyes wide with a mix of curiosity and caution. “Oh?”

“They think... and I guess, I’ve been thinking too... about what it would mean to be more than just friends,” Aaron said, each word carefully weighed but flowing freer than he expected. “I don’t want to ruin what we have, but I also can’t ignore that you’ve become the most important person in my life.”

The room filled with a heavy silence as you absorbed his words. Finally, you spoke, your voice tinged with vulnerability. “I’ve felt the same, Aaron. But there’s also this guilt... like I’m somehow betraying Haley? You were the love of her life.”

Aaron nodded slowly, understanding all too well. “I know that feeling,” he confessed. “But sometimes I wonder if, in some way we can’t quite understand; Haley knew we’d both be left here... lonely. And maybe, just maybe, she’d think it was right--us finding comfort, maybe even happiness, together.” He sighed, running a hand over his face, feeling so lost with what to do at this current moment, “Jessica says she’d want this--”

“Jessica did know her better than you or I,” You laughed, cutting him off. You had a point. A thick pause filled the room, and then your eyes softened at that, a tear glimmering but not falling. “That does sound like something Haley would orchestrate, doesn’t it? She always wanted the best for us. I’d like to think... I’d like to try more than this. But I need to think about it. We both should. I don’t want us to have any regrets.”

Aaron felt a mix of relief and anticipation swirl within him. “Of course,” he agreed. “We’ll take all the time we need.”

As you stood to leave, pausing at the door, you seemed to hesitate. “Aaron, can I try something?”

Confused but trusting, he nodded. At that moment, you stepped closer, closing the distance between you with a few measured steps, and kissed him. It was not a tentative kiss, but one that spoke of all the unspoken words and pent-up emotions…a kiss that sizzled with electricity and felt like destiny unfurling at their lips.

Aaron had never thought about kissing you, surprisingly enough. You were beautiful, everything he would want in a woman. But now, he was sure he wouldn’t be able to stop thinking about you or your lips after this kiss.

When you finally pulled away, the look in your eyes was as shocked as he felt, both of you breathless from the intensity of the connection. Without a word, you turned and left, the door closing softly behind you.

Aaron stood motionless, the imprint of your lips still warm on his. The apartment was quiet again, but the air was charged with the promise of something new, something terrifyingly wonderful. As he touched his own lips, the memory of the kiss lingered, a promise of what could be if only they dared to reach for it.

That night, Aaron Hotchner lay awake, the darkness of his bedroom punctuated only by the occasional distant sounds of the city at night. His mind replayed the kiss over and over.

Its surprising intensity. Its rightness. He felt so much now. So much more than he even dared to feel before.

But amidst the replay, doubt crept in like a persistent fog. What if you regretted the kiss? What would Haley think of all this? Would she approve of him finding happiness again, especially with her best friend?

As he tossed and turned, Aaron's thoughts drifted to Haley.

What would Haley want? What about Jack? Jack was Haley’s biggest accomplishment and blessing, in the name of his happy life, what would she want for him? For them?

The answer came to him in the quiet solitude of the night. Yes. she would want them to be happy.

Happiness like this didn’t just stumble into one’s life without reason. It felt too right, too destined, to be anything but meant to be.

The next morning, still wrapped in the haze of his late-night revelations and running on less sleep than usual, Aaron’s phone rang just as he was about to enter the FBI building. It was you.

His heart skipped at the sight of your name. He had become used to your calls, but after the kiss, the conversation…all of the endless possibilities that lay ahead? He paused.

“So here’s how this will work,” you began without even so much of a greeting hello; your voice carrying a tone that was almost all business, yet he could detect an undercurrent of excitement. “You’re going to ask me on a date, and we’re going to try this for real because that kiss? Haley Brooks Hotchner would not have allowed a universe for a kiss like that to feel so good if she did not want this!”

Aaron laughed, a genuine, heartfelt sound that felt freeing. “Well, good morning to you, too,” There was no hesitation in your words, no regret—only forward motion. “I think that’s an excellent plan,” he responded, the weight of his previous doubts lifting. “How about dinner tonight? There’s a new place I’ve been wanting to try.”

You accepted with a laugh that echoed his own relief and happiness. “I’d love that, Aaron.”

As he pocketed his phone and stepped into the building, his step had a new lightness. He knew this was the start of something extraordinary--the beginning of a new chapter that promised as much joy as it did challenges.

But for the first time in a long while, Aaron felt fully equipped to embrace it all. He looked up briefly, as if through the steel and glass of the FBI headquarters he could see beyond to the sky above, and silently thanked Haley.

Her memory, always a part of him, now felt like a guiding star rather than a shadow.

Haley had wanted him to live fully, to love again, and in finding a future with you, Aaron knew he was honoring not just her memory but her wishes for him.

Tag List: @zaddyhotch @estragos @todorokishoe24 @looking1016 @khxna @rousethemouse @averyhotchner @reidfile @bernelflo @lover-of-books-and-tea @frickin-bats @sleepysongbirdsings @justyourusualash @person-005 @iyskgd @hiireadstuff @kcch-ns @alexxavicry

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pbuckets-5 · 20 days ago

Text

uconns lost player part 2

authors note - hey y’all i’m back

warnings - angst, SWEARING, alcohol, fluff if you squint, smut if you reaaaally look

be prepared

21 - gracie abrams

i see the look in your eye and i’m biting my tongue

the sharp echo of the ball slamming against the wood floor echoed through the gym, each bounce sending a shock through your body. you freeze, clutching your basketball under your arm like a lifeline.

“long time no see,” nika’s voice rings throughout the empty gym, the ball momentarily stopping. another pair of footsteps pad across the gym floor, coming to a stop with an abrupt squeak.

“y/n.” geno’s voice cuts through the charged air like a knife, his words sharp, as if he was about to coach you.

you spin around on your heel, smiling sheepishly. your cheeks flush pink, the two combined gazes making you shrink. “uh.” you start, stuttering. “hi?”

after what felt like hours of hard labor and repeated shots from all over the court, geno finally released you with a slap on the back and a note from him clearing you to the nurse to begin to play again (involuntarily). nika walked out with you, an eerie silence falling between you.

she tentatively reaches out to touch your arm, stopping you in your tracks. you stare at one another for a moment before she speaks up, her voice hoarse from the hours of exertion.

“you know..” she begins, clearing her throat. “paige misses you. i don’t know how she’s going to react when you come back. just, please, don’t pull the bullshit you pulled again. you know that’ll break her.” she pauses, as if she almost regrets what she’s thinking. the silence falls thickly between you, the air charged with unspoken words. “you should really come back to kk’s apartment. it’s where the girls are celebrating.” she pauses after seeing the totally mortified expression on your face. “just.. try.”

and that’s how you found yourself slumped in the front seat of nika’s car, the music playing quietly in the background as she talks about the game. “you would’ve loved it,” she says, a soft, nostalgic smile on her face. “you would’ve dominated.” she says, tearing her eyes from the road to look at your slumped figure. you wondered if she could see your racing heart or maybe even read your mind.

“eyes on the road!” you say, gesturing for her to look back to the car in front of us. “oh gosh!” you say, straightening in your seat. you can’t help the small smile that graces your cheeks, glancing over at your closest hoop buddy.

“i know how to drive, dipshit.” she says, grinning wider now as she pulls into the all too familiar parking lot leading to kk’s apartment.

your heart suddenly leaps, and you realize what the fuck you’re actually doing right now. you’ve just dug yourself a 6 foot hole, and you’re about to jump into it when you step into this apartment.

“fuck.” you murmur, climbing out of nika’s car. you could immediately recognize multiple cars in the parking lot as many that you’ve been in before. you followed behind her like a lost puppy as you stepped into the elevator, counting the seconds until your heart goons into cardiac arrest.

as the two of you step out of the elevator, nika places a reassuring hand on your shoulder. “it’s going to be fine. everybody misses you, anyways.” she says, flashing you that grin.

you smile back, trying to ignore there way your stomach twists as you take steps closer to the apartment. you can hear laughter and the bustling sounds of movement from outside, even from down the hall. you trail behind nika, hiding behind her broad shoulders as she pushed the door open.

the conversation falls for a moment, then quickly replaced by cheers.

“how was private torture with coach?” kk bounds over, seemly not noticing you as you fall back, even farther behind nika. you sag by the door, a blank but clearly terrified look plastered on your face.

nika drags you in my your wrist, and you can hear the gasp that echos through the room. all heads turn towards a slumped blonde one, her braids as always perfect and her usual bubbly self dimmed.

kk was the one to save the day, a broad grin spreading across her cheeks as she envelopes you in a hug, her arms squeezing you. “oh my god! i haven’t seen you in ages!” she squeals, squeezing the literal air out of you.

“yeah.” you croak out, wrapping your arms around her. “i haven’t seen you in a while.” you shoot nika a death glare for dragging you here, something that used to be your safe haven but was now a hell-hole.

she let’s go, finally, and bounds to the other side of the room, her radiant energy drawing everyone’s eyes to her. they were all obviously intoxicated, the room scattered with beer cans.

“paige!” she says, and you can feel your heart drop. all eyes turn to you as the color drains from your face, quickly then returning with a flushed hue. this is the closest you’ve been to paige since the accident, and your heart was already pounding out of your chest.

when she looked up, her red-rimmed eyes met yours with a look a pure shock, then betrayal, and then absolute admiration. you couldn't tell if she was mad as hell or proud to see you up again.

a snort escapes azzi's mouth, and a roll of her eyes only confirmed her feelings about you. "the fuck is she doing here?" she hisses, her eyes narrowing down on your shrinking figure.

"azzi." nika warns, her tone sharp and motherly. "enough. she's joining the team again." she says, wrapping a protective arm around your shoulders.

you couldn't wipe the way paige's face contorted at the sight of you. her mouth dropped open in shock, her nose crinkling slightly, something she does when shes happy, her eyes widening. the look was enough to leave you shaken for a lifetime, especially since she was still staring you down with the same look.

annoyance flashed across azzi's face, her eyebrows furrowing in anger. "we did just fine without her. why does she need to come back now? just because paige didn't drop 30 on a few games? it's not like she cared any sooner." she ranted, her voice droning and painful to listen to.

the room fell deathly silent, so quiet that you could literally hear kk's breathing.

your face flushed pink. "i think i'll go." you murmur the first words all night, spinning on your heel and ignoring nika and kk's protests, and azzi's obnoxious laughter.

you shut the door behind you, exhaling deeply and leaning against the wall. you try to calm your twisted stomach, or your racing heart, but that only picks up when you hear the door click open beside you.

a tall, very drunk blonde steps out, her bright blue eyes landing on you. before you have time to react, her lips are pressed against yours, a satisfied sigh slipping past her lips.

your eyes widen, but you don't pull away. this is the sole thought that's starred in your head ever since paige had finally left you alone. you thought that's what you wanted.

your hands slide to the nape of her neck, playing with the ends of her ponytail. her large hands slide down to your waist, drawing mindless shapes through your t-shirt.

"m' sorry about azzi." she mutters, pulling away for a moment, taking a deep breath. "i'm just glad you're back. i missed you." her voice is tinged with sympathy and a mix of desire.

"missed you more." you say.

last thing you remember from last night.

you wake up in a frenzy, peeling open your eyes in a too-familiar bed. "shit!" you hiss, throwing the blankets off you. you scramble the floor for your clothes, picking up discarded items and throwing them on. a rustle from the bed reminds you of what a painfully awkward situation you're in.

paige groans, then gasps, a horrible sound cutting through the silence of the apartment.

"y/n?!"

#paige bueckers #paige bueckers x reader #uconn huskies #uconn wbb #paige bueckers angst #uconn women’s basketball #paige bueckers uconn

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clare-875 · 1 month ago

Note

Love love love the New Names prompt! I loved Ace’s and Sabo’s!! Poor poor Ace.

I was wondering if you could do another part with: Corazon, Killer, Mihawk, and Penguin 👀👀👀

Have a lovely day/night! ✨🫶��

New Names pt.3 (Corazon, Killer, Mihawk, Penguin)

_____ Pairings: Corazon x Reader; Killer x Reader; Mihawk x Reader; Penguin x Reader Summary: His reaction when you call him pal, buddy, etc. Warnings: Mostly fluff, Female Reader A/N: I'm so glad you like the fics! This is my first time writing for these characters so I hope you enjoy! 💗 [One Piece Masterlist] [Part 1: Luffy, Sanji, Zoro, Ace, Law] [Part 2: Shanks, Sabo, Crocodile] [Part 4: Kid, Katakuri, Smoker] _____

Corazon

(A/N: Spoilers for Law's backstory)

A young Law looks to you from behind where he hid, unusual eagerness buried in his gaze. You and him had come up with a little prank to play on your boyfriend and despite being in the middle of a crisis, you would do anything to see Law's smile. When Corazon had left with Law to find a cure for his Amber Lead disease, you (being an undercover Marine yourself) had joined him. With time came the undeniable connection that was formed between the three of you.

You adored both of them with all your heart.

You were currently trying to hide the grin on your face as you looked up, anticipation thrumming as you watched your boyfriend finally approach from a distance. His painted face seemed to light up at the sight of you, and he moved faster to get to your side.

"Hello, love." His smile is wide as he approaches, but you watch as it fades to confusion in the absence of the boy usually by your side.

"Where's Law?"

You smile at his concern, but you continue with your little game.

"Don't worry buddy, he's just resting for now."

You expected a lot of things for his reaction, but what you didn't expect was the series of events that followed. One minute his face had been full of his usual adoration of you, the next came one of shock at your words, and the next moment his face was buried into the ground.

He had fallen.

You quickly approach in concern, rolling your boyfriend over so he is on his back. You kneel by him and look down at his face.

"Buddy, are you okay?"

You are surprised, however, that when you look down at your boyfriend's face, his eyes are clouded more with sadness than pain. There is a pout that lingers on his face.

"Love, why are you calling me that?"

You furrow your brows in mock confusion.

"What are you talking about, bud?"

Your boyfriend sits up quickly at your words, expression twisted in disarray.

"You-you're calling me buddy, but I'm- we're dating now. So, you should be calling me love."

He states it all so plainly to you, that you stare for a moment before losing yourself to your light laughter. This only causes the crease between your boyfriend's brows to deepen.

"Love?"

In that instant, you hear the rushing of footsteps, before Law jumps onto your boyfriend's back suddenly. He is smiling wide as he meets your gaze and amusement glistens in his eyes. Corazon yelps at the sudden weight on him.

"Surprise, you got pranked!"

Law grins in his mischief before running over to you and hiding behind your leg. Your boyfriend looks up in complete bewilderment as his eyes turn from you to Law, and back to you again. But then he spots the smile on Law's face and loses himself in a light-hearted chuckle; he tries to hold back his tears.

"...Not bad kid."

There is a pause before Corazon ruffles Law's head slightly and stands up to his feet. You smile softly at the interaction. You can see Law trying to play off the light blush on his cheeks at the gesture.

"Now you, love," your boyfriend says turning to you and taking your hand in his.

"I was expecting better."

You roll your eyes at his words but your smile does nothing to waver, and the three of you make your way back to camp.

That is until your boyfriend falls to the ground once more.

Killer

You fight the smile that wants to reach your face as you watch your boyfriend a small distance away talking to some members of crew. An idea had swarmed your mind and you were keen to see it take place. "What are you smirking about?" You hear the low growl of your Captain on your left as he looks at your expression with suspicion. A grin tugs wide at his words.

"Nothing you need to worry about Captain."

Kid grits his teeth as he seethes and walks away from your amused expression, but you pay him no mind; your attention is back on your boyfriend as he seems to conclude whatever conversation had taken place. You watch as his masked figure turns and spots you. You quickly put back on a neutral facade as Killer finally makes his way over, suspense bubbling within you.

"Hello, love."

His words to a stranger would sound surprisingly gentle, especially for a man named Killer. However, his kind nature is a given to you, and so you smile softly at your boyfriend, before giving way to your plan.

"Hey man, what were you up to?"

You watch as your boyfriend freezes momentarily. You grin discreetly, as you try to play nonchalant. Instantly, Killer's mind goes to concern.

"Okay love, what's wrong?"

His broad figure looms over where you are sitting and you don't have to remove his mask to know that his eyes are searching yours for answers. You keep up the act as you look at him in mock confusion.

"Nothing's wrong man, I've just been waiting for you."

He freezes again at your choice of words, and before he knows it his hand is under your chin.

"Princess, why do I feel like you're messing with me."

You feel warmth rise to your cheeks at his low words spoken softly to you. You try muttering an excuse, but it is for naught as Killer seems to put the dots together, and he has pulled you to your feet in an instant. You gasp as he swiftly drags you in the direction of your shared chambers, Kid still looking at the both of you in utter bewilderment.

"I'll show you who you're calling man, princess."

Mihawk

(A/N: Slightly suggestive at the end)

Your boyfriend is lounging on his chair, paging through the most recent newspaper copy that had been delivered. Your lips twitch upwards at the sight and you push open the door wider so you can get through. In your hands are two cups of steaming tea. Your boyfriend instantly perks up at your presence; he has sensed you lingering for some time now.

His sharp eyes soften slightly as he watches you get closer. "Hello love." You smile as you place his cup in front of him and put yours next to it. You would be lying to say you hadn't missed him. He had been so busy recently with whatever duties come with being the world's strongest swordsman and a warlord of the sea. But despite your sentiments, you wanted to go through with the little game you had formed in your head.

"Hi pal, anything interesting happened lately?"

You peer over his shoulder trying to look at the newspaper in his hands like nothing is wrong. But you would be stupid to think that your boyfriend did not notice the change in the name you usually called him.

"Love, what are you doing?"

Mihawk's eyes are sharp once more, buried perplexity masked in irritation. You simply play dumb and give him a look of confusion.

"Looking at the newspaper?"

At your words, your boyfriend places the paper in his hands on the table in front of him. One hand grabs yours as you look in bewilderment at his sudden movements.

"You called me pal."

His words are low as they are menacing and you hesitate, unable to meet his golden eyes.

"I- I don't know what you're talking about."

Your boyfriend has none of it though, as he pulls you closer to him so you're basically straddling him on his chair.

"You seem to have forgotten something. Something I thought I taught you not to forget."

You freeze as you try to hide your flustered face at the sudden proximity and the rumbling of his words.

"And that is?"

He pauses, before placing a hand on your face and inching closer to you.

"I am your partner, not some pal."

His breath is hot against your lips before he closes the space between you. You feel yourself flush and warmth fills you. His hands frame your face and you pull him impossibly closer. When you part, there is a shine in the gold of his irises that signifies whatever this is wasn't over.

You grin.

If this is what you get for calling him pal, maybe you should call him that more often.

Penguin

You and Shachi smirk at each other as a plan forms between you. "And then we watch him cry and piss his pants." Your smile widens as a laugh escapes you at the absurdity of his words. "You've lost your mind. He might not even react." You watch as your best friend rolls his eyes, more disbelieving of your words than you were of his. "Of course, he'll react, you're like the love of his life!" You fight the flush that wants to reach your face at his nonchalant words and shove him light heartedly. "Shut up!" He grins when he sees your flustered expression.

You had been close with Shachi and Penguin the instant you joined the Heart Pirates. You truly valued your friendship with Shachi and adored your boyfriend more than anything in the world. Your light-hearted banter continues for only a few moments until you spot your boyfriend making his way towards you. "Okay, actually shut up now. It's time!" You quickly shush Shachi and get up, as he gives you a lazy thumbs-up. Your boyfriend's expression instantly enlightens as you approach.

"Hey babe, I was looking all over for you." You can see his wide smile underneath his hat. When he approaches his expression doesn't fade. "I missed you." You hesitate only for a second before conceding to your plan.

"Missed you too dude, where were you?"

You answer him casually and like nothing was out of the norm. But to your boyfriend, he felt like the Earth had just stood still. You tilt your head, at your boyfriend's frozen expression, slowly waving your hand in front of him in concern.

"Um, dude?"

Unbeknownst to you, Penguin's mind is ablaze with flashbacks to a time well before you started dating, when you would call him friendly terms. He thought he would be stuck in the friendship zone for eternity, but when he confessed you had shocked him when you had returned his feelings too. He adored the pet names you called him in your relationship, but now with your words, it felt like he was back in hell.

"Dude are you-"

"Stop!"

His hands are flain out to you as he tries to stop the name from slipping past your lips again. You raise an eyebrow in false confusion. Shachi is now laughing his head off looking at what's taking place.

"Oi Shachi! This isn't a time for laughter! She's calling me dude again!"

You roll your eyes at the over-exaggeration of your boyfriend's words and actions, but it is Shachi and not you who accidentally lets slip of the prank you had played.

"Yeah, idiot. It's obviously a joke, can't you tell?"

"Shachi-!"

"Wait, it's a joke?"

You sigh as your boyfriend turns back to you with a more vulnerable expression on his face than you were expecting. "Yeah, I'm sorry babe." You reach out and grab his hand, as you watch him relax at the name you call him once more. "It was just a bit of fun?" He sighs deeply in a mixture of relief and exasperation. "Thank god, I thought you forgot we were dating or something." Your lips upturn more at the teasing grin on his face.

"Like I could forget that."

You step closer to him, and you see a familiar flush reach your boyfriend's face. His heart thrums in anticipation at your sudden proximity. "Yeah?" He murmurs to you, and you inch closer, almost closing the space between you two when-

"Okay! Enough of the mushiness! Not when I'm here!"

You hear Shachi's voice break the trance between you both, and you instantly see your boyfriend's face darken. He turns swiftly from your side.

"Hey, we were having a moment moron!"

Penguin makes his way from you to Shachi, a multitude of curses leaving his lips.

"Too bad!"

"Get back here idiot!"

You smile softly despite yourself. They were a handful, but there was never a quiet moment with the two of them; you couldn't give them up for anything in the world.

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goldfades · 8 months ago

Text

★ MIC'D UP ─── UCONN WBB MANAGER

❪ requested -> "fic for the manager being mic’d up at practice!!!" ❫

─ warnings | nothing but banter and teasing!!!!!

⇨ missing out on updates? check out my wcbb masterlist!

"KK, sweetie be careful. Put the water-" You were cut off abruptly by the loud crash that echoed throughout the gym as KK dropped the water jug on the floor, spilling it all over as Paige and Nika watched in horror.

"Put the water down slowly," you continued with a sigh as the camera zoomed in on your face.

The camera cuts and comes back to Paige as she delicately adjusts the mic on your collar, trying to shake off the unexpected interruption caused by KK's clumsy mishap.

"Okay, all set," Paige whispers, her voice barely audible over the sounds of the gym.

Before you could continue, the video pauses as a message comes onto the screen Sorry to all the headphone users, lower the volume 😛

"Hey guys, can you hear me?" You shout into the mic loudly as Paige giggles off camera, causing you to smile. The cameraman gives you a thumbs up along with an amused chuckle as you grin up at the camera.

Paige comes up behind you with a grin as she sticks out her tongue, earning a disgusted expression on your face. "Wait, wait did you get KK with the-" Paige couldn't even continue without laughing as she glanced back at your now, displeased expression.

The cameraman nods as Paige claps her hands together, laughing. "My god, that is gold. Everyone's gonna love it-"

"Paige, seriously?" You chuckle, trying to keep a straight face as she continues to laugh.

As Paige's laughter fills the air, you can't help but join in, the tension from KK's mishap melting away into amusement. "Alright, let's get back to business," you say, your voice still laced with humor.

Paige nods enthusiastically, wiping away a tear of laughter from the corner of her eye. "Yeah, yeah, let's do this," she says, her grin widening as she regains her composure.

The video cuts then comes back as the camera zooms in on you and Coach Geno as you watched the girls during warm-ups. You and Geno kept exchanging amused looks as you both overheard their conversations.

"Did you hear what she just said?" you whisper to Coach Geno, a grin spreading across your face as you exchange amused looks. "Ice, we can hear you!"

Ice just gave you a grin as she jogs back to the benches to get a drink of water.

The camera cuts again then comes back with you sitting on the bench with your hands in your face as the girls scrimmaged. You sighed loudly as you glanced back up, trying to recover from the terrible execution you just witnessed on the court.

You glanced back up from your hands, the frustration evident in your expression, but as you caught Coach Geno's eye, you couldn't help but crack a wry smile. "Well, that was... creatively chaotic," you muttered under your breath, trying to inject a bit of humor into the situation.

Coach Geno chuckled softly, nodding in agreement. "A perfect description," he replied, his own smile reflecting yours.

"I hear you talkin' shit, buddy!" You heard Paige's voice as Geno sent her a glare. "Oops, sorry Coach."

The camera zooms back into your face as you laugh, unable to contain your amusement. "We wouldn't be talking so much crap if you actually knew how to play basketball," you tease, your laughter bubbling up despite the frustration of the scrimmage.

Paige jogged up to you with a mock annoyed expression as she sized you up, looking at you up and down as you began to laugh uncontrollably. "Bro, you better watch yourself," Paige retorted, a playful glint in her eyes. "Cause I'd beat your..." she glanced at the camera with a grin. "Butt,"

You rolled your eyes as you bit your lip, trying to stifle your laughter. "Oh really?"

"Yeah, really." Paige sent you a mock glare as the girls began to come in for a water break. "Guys, guys, guys. Who would win in a 1v1, me or Y/N?"

"Y/N, easily." Nika responded quickly as you sent her a grateful smile.

Paige sighed loudly as all the other girls began agreeing with her, as you grinned. "You suck ups!"

"I mean, she pays for our food. And she like, lets us hang out in her dorm and borrow her clothes," Aubrey chimed in, eliciting laughter from the rest of the team.

Paige playfully rolled her eyes, unable to hide her amusement. "Alright, alright, I get it," she conceded with a dramatic sigh. "Y/N's the favorite."

"For sure," Coach Geno added as he smiled at you. "Okay girls less talkin, more workin."

The camera panned out, capturing the team as they reluctantly returned to their drills, a mix of groans and giggles filling the air. You stood up, shaking your head with a smile, and clapped your hands to get everyone’s attention.

“Alright, ladies, let’s focus. I want to see some real effort out there,” you called out, your tone a blend of authority and encouragement.

Geno turned his head, his expression surprised but pleased as gave you a thumbs up, earning a laugh from you.

As practice came to an end, the camera zoomed in on the girls as they gathered around for a final huddle. You and Coach Geno stood in the center, looking around at the faces of your team.

Coach Geno began, “Keep that same energy and focus, and we’re going to go far. Now, let’s break it out and get some rest. That's all I have to say for right now.”

“And great job today, everyone,” you began, your voice filled with pride. "Oh and! Don't forget, film is mandatory, you guys have to go. I'm looking at you, Paige."

"Bro, I was sick-"

Coach Geno cleared his throat before the two of you quickly shut your mouths. "Girls, please I'm tired."

"Okay, okay fine. UConn on three," Paige muttered as all the girls put their hands in.

The girls cheered, breaking the huddle with a unified chant. As they dispersed, the camera captured candid moments of laughter and camaraderie, emphasizing the strong bond within the team.

The screen then displayed a message: “Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes fun and game highlights. Go Huskies!”

↳ make sure to check out my navigation or masterlist if you enjoyed! any interaction is greatly appreciated !

↳ thank you for reading all the way through, as always ♡

#uconn wbb manager ★#uconn wbb x reader #uconn wbb fic #uconn huskies #kk arnold #wcbb #uconn #paige buckets #paige bueckers #uconn women’s basketball #nika muhl #wbb #aaliyah edwards #wbb x reader #wcbb x reader #uconn wbb #uconn wcbb #uconnwbb #ice brady

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daisymbin · 3 months ago

Text

wake up call - kwon soonyoung

warnings: alcohol, let me know if I missed anything

pairings: soonyoung x reader

genre: slight angst, mostly fluff, drunken confessions

wc: 2k

drunken confession masterlist

main masterlist! // soonyoung’s m.list

as the clock strikes 3am, the sound of laughter and music has finally faded from the living room. your small group of your friends have all passed out, some on the floor, others hanging off the couch, leaving just you and soonyoung sitting on the floor right beside the couch in the dim glow of the fairy lights strung around the room. the reminiscent scent of pizza lingers in the air, mixing with the coziness of the room, making everything feel warm and safe.

tonight had started like any other get-together: pizza, drinks, and endless jokes from the boys. soonyoung had been in a rather good mood, his laughter brightening the atmosphere as he cracked jokes and danced around but somewhere between the games, laughter and late-night snacks, soonyoung had hit the bottle harder than usual. now, he sits beside you, a little swaying, with a half-empty cup in his hand, his eyes glossy, a clear sign that this lightweight boy is now…drunk or at the very least, tipsy.

you glance over at him, the way his fingers absentmindedly trace the rim of his cup. you’ve known him long enough to sense when he’s holding something back, and tonight, he feels more vulnerable than usual.

“hey,” you say softly, nudging him gently. “you good, buddy?”

he looks up at you, his boyish smile spreading across his face. “y-yeah! just… enjoying the moment, you know?” he slurs, his words slightly jumbled but filled with an undeniable cheerfulness.

“enjoying the moment? or enjoying the drinks?” you tease lightly, trying to bring back his usual playful spirit that had died down earlier.

“both!” he exclaims, raising his cup like it’s a trophy.

you laugh, feeling warmth flood your chest. it’s nice to see him like this, carefree and happy, but there’s still a part of you that worries. “maybe you should slow down a bit. I don’t want you to regret anything tomorrow when you wake up with a pounding headache.” you say gently.

he shakes his head dismissively. “regret? pshhh, no way! tonight is all about having fun and… and feeling our feelings!” he exclaims, his voice rising slightly as he gestures dramatically.

“feelings?” you echo, raising an eyebrow. “what kind of feelings are we talking about here?”

he leans in closer, his breath smelling faintly of soju, and whispers conspiratorially, “i’ve got some deep feelings.” he admits jokingly as he wiggles his eyebrows, though you could sense the truth in his joke.

you chuckle, feeling the energy shift slightly. “oh really? what kind of deep feelings?”

he pauses for a moment; not expecting you to question him further, his eyes searching yours. “you know… feelings…. like how amazing you are. how funny and beautiful and smart and pretty you are!” his words tumble out, slightly slurred but sincere. “you make me so happy.”

your heart races at his unexpected compliments, but you can’t help but tease him a bit. “is that the soju talking? or do you really mean that?”

he leans back dramatically, clutching his chest as if wounded. “how dare you question my feelings! they’re real! they’re deep!” he shouts, laughter bubbling in your chest.

“okay, okay, I believe you!” you say, giggling. “but really, soonyoung, you should tone it down a notch.”

“no!” he insists, his eyes brightening with mischief. “i want to say more! like… like how i’ve been in love with you for so long!”

the laughter that once bubbled its way up from your chest, now dies in your throat, replaced by a heavy silence as his words sink in. you blink at him, trying to process what he just said. “what?”

“yeah! you heard me!” he says, his voice louder now, filled with both excitement and a hint of panic. “i’ve loved you, y/n! like, since forever! but i was too scared to say it!”

your heart pounds in your chest, the atmosphere thick with the weight of his confession. “soonyoung, are you drunk right now?” you already knew he was, but you asked anyway.

“maybe a little,” he admits with a sheepish grin. “but that doesn’t change anything! i’m tired of hiding it! you’re my best friend, and it’s killing me!”

you swallow hard, your mind racing. you’ve always had feelings for him, too, but hearing him say it out loud especially in this reckless, drunken state leaves you momentarily speechless. “i… i didn’t know you felt that way. why didn’t you tell me?”

“because it’s complicated!” he snaps suddenly, frustration bubbling over. “you have no idea how hard it is to watch you date other people and act like you're fine when you’re not! it’s exhausting!”

“what do you mean, ‘act like im fine’?” you retort, hurt flashing through you. “i’ve been waiting for you to say something! it’s not like i wanted to go out with anyone else! i thought you didn’t care!”

“of course i care!” he shouts, the tension in the room escalating as he stands up, swaying slightly. “but you make it impossible! you’re always so caught up in your own world that you don’t even see how much i’ve been hurting!”

“you think this is easy for me?” you fire back, your heart racing. “i’ve been scared to say anything because i thought you’d never feel the same! i didn’t want to ruin what we had!”

“well, maybe you should have just taken a chance!” he yells, frustration etched on his face. “because now it feels like everything is falling apart, and i can’t keep pretending anymore!”

his words hit hard, and you feel tears prick your eyes. “you’re right! it is falling apart because we never talked about it! we’ve been dancing around each other for too long!”

he looks at you, the fire in his eyes wavering for a moment, replaced by something softer. “i don’t want to lose you, y/n. that’s the truth. i just- i don’t know how to make this work.”

“then let’s figure it out,” you plead, desperate for him to understand. “we can do that, right?”

“and what if we try and it doesn’t work? what if it ruins everything?” he asks, his voice wavering as he runs a hand through his hair.

“i’d rather risk that than keep feeling like this.” you say, your heart aching as you watch him.

he falls silent, his expression a mix of anger and anguish. you can see the conflict raging within him, but he shakes his head, as if trying to clear his thoughts. “i can’t believe this is happening right now,” he murmurs, his voice barely above a whisper.

the silence stretches between you, heavy and suffocating. finally, after what feels like an eternity, he takes a deep breath and leans forward, resting his forehead against yours. “i don’t know how to do this,” he admits, his voice trembling.

“we’ll figure it out together,” you whisper, your heart aching with the weight of the moment. “we’ve always been a team, right?”

“right,” he replies, but there’s a sadness in his voice that lingers.

then, in a moment of reckless abandon fueled by the alcohol coursing through him, he suddenly pulls back and looks deep into your eyes. “i can’t hold back anymore. i’m in love with you, y/n. drunk or sober, that’s the truth.”

your breath catches in your throat, “you… you-?”

“yeah,” he says, answering your unspoken question. his gaze steady despite the tears in his eyes. “i’ve loved you for so long, but i was scared of ruining our friendship. i thought if i said something, it would push you away.”

you swallow hard, the rush of emotion overwhelming you. “i’ve felt the same way, soonyoung. i just didn’t know how to tell you. i was afraid it would change everything.”

he closes his eyes, as if trying to block out the truth of your words. “i don’t want to lose you,” he whispers again, his voice breaking.

“you won’t lose me,” you promise, tears slipping down your cheeks as you reach out to touch his arm. “i’m not going anywhere.”

he looks torn, his expression a mixture of longing and fear. “i just wish we didn’t have to have this stupid argument.”

“neither do i,” you say, your voice softening. “but maybe this is what we needed. a wake-up call.”

“a wake-up call,” he echoes, his voice shaky. “i just don’t want to ruin everything we’ve built together.”

“you won’t ruin it,” you insist, your heart racing as you draw closer. “we can make it stronger if we both want it.”

“i want it,” he admits, his eyes shining with vulnerability. “i’ve always wanted it.”

“then let’s just…try,” you urge, your heart pounding as you lean in closer. “let’s be brave for once.”

he nods slowly, his breath hitching as he searches your eyes. “can i- can i kiss you?”

you nod, your heart pounding in your chest as he leans in closer. the world outside fades away as he brushes his lips against yours, tentative at first, then deepening as you both lose yourselves in the moment. it feels electric, a rush of warmth flooding through you as you kiss him back, your feelings pouring out into that single moment.

when you finally pull apart, both of you breathless, he searches your eyes as if trying to gauge your reaction. “are you okay?” he asks, his voice shaky.

“yeah, as long as you are.” you say with a small smile.

his face softens as he takes your hand in his. the warmth of his touch sends a thrill through you. “i was so afraid of losing you that I didn’t know how to tell you. but now… i just want to hold on.”

“then let’s promise each other that we’ll be honest, no matter what.”

he nods, determination etched on his face. “i promise.”

just as the tension starts to ease, you hear the door creak open, and jihoon stumbles in. “hey, i thought everyone passed out…. but i heard voices. is everything okay? what’s going on in here?” he asks, his brow furrowing in confusion as he takes in the scene of 2 longing (ex) best friends.

you and soonyoung exchange a quick glance, both of you aware of the moment you’re sharing. “uh, just talking,” you say, your heart racing as you realize how exposed you feel now.

jihoon raises an eyebrow, clearly not convinced. “talking? or finally talking talking?”

you feel soonyoung squeeze your hand reassuringly. “finally talking talking,” he admits, his voice steady despite the embarrassment coloring his cheeks.

jihoon’s eyes widen in surprise. “oh. finally. well in that case…. he grins, clearly pleased but also awkward. “i didn’t mean to interrupt. i’ll just... uh, let you two have your moment.”

“wait, jihoon,” you call, stopping him before he leaves. “you can stay. we’re just…figuring things out.”

soonyoung nods, his face flushed but determined. “yeah, we’re still best friends. just… with more feelings now.”

jihoon chuckles, clearly amused. “this is going to be a lot to unpack. just so you know, I’ve always thought you two were meant to be.”

“really?” you ask, surprised.

“yeah! everyone could see it but you two blind fools,” he says, shaking his head. “but it’s good you finally talked it out.”

you share a look with soonyoung, feeling the weight of your earlier argument dissipate as you laugh together. It’s comforting to know your friends support you both.

“just keep me updated. I want all the juicy details. also, I hope you know, you’re both going to be the main subject of conversation for a while.” jihoon informs with a smirk before he heads back into the kitchen.

once he’s gone, soonyoung speaks up again, “I can’t believe we waited so long, but better late than never,” he shrugs, pulling you in for a hug. “let’s make sure we don’t take too long next time.” you joked back.

#seventeen #seventeen fluff #seventeen imagine #svt fluff #svt #svt x reader #svt angst #seventeen x reader #hoshi x reader #soonyoung x reader #hoshi fluff #hoshi angst #soonyoung fluff #soonyoung angst

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