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that-bwitch · 2 months

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london boy

am I in my lover era? probably, but am I ashamed? no, not really. but just a warning, I won't even try to commit to posting this often. literally just a burst of inspiration (and taylor swift).

london boy by taylor swift as inspiration sirius x muggle!reader warning: prolly nothing, it's just fluff wc: 2,2k

From your very childhood up to your late teens your parents really liked bringing you to London with them from time to time. It was a truly beautiful city to be a tourist in. You’d been there so often that you felt like some sort of an expert. You could recite the history of any major landmark, just point at, say, the Tower, and one could hear a whole lecture from you about the fortress, the prison, the ravens, all the good stuff. You got cocky at times, thinking you could easily become a tour guide. Your friends back in your hometown rolled their eyes every time you even mentioned London, and the level of your excitement grew every single day throughout the month before you finally moved there.

Turned out, London wasn’t so great to live in. At least that’s what you thought on your first day, when you paid thrice the price you expected to pay for the cab taking you from the airport to the hotel. Then, the hunt for a rental began. The hotel started to get expensive day by day and soon enough you really lost your spirits. You didn’t have enough money to pay for a room and a real estate agent, so you resorted to looking through tons and tons of newspapers, hoping that an advertisement of a one-bedroom would at some point catch your eye. It wasn’t working as well as you expected, so one gloomy rainy afternoon you found yourself just walking through a random neighbourhood looking at houses and thinking that cooking some hot soup on your own stove sounded really nice at the moment. You realized that your exterior was pretty miserable for someone who couldn’t hold in an excited shriek right after buying a ticket to London last month. As if to confirm your assumptions, a sudden laughter disrupted the cacophony of raindrops hitting the ground and wind howling between the branches of nearby trees.

Oh, god.

“You aren’t from ‘round here, right?”

A motorcycle rolled from behind you along the roadway. You continued on your way, thinking it was just some creep who noticed your vulnerable state and decided to, well, be a creep.

“Hey, hey, ma’am, you don’t have an umbrella and I do. Pretty sure I win.”

“Ma’am? Really?”

You stopped at last to see who had the audacity to just ride up to you like you were their longtime friend.

“Bet that’s what you think us Brits talk like, foreign girl.”

The rider took off his helmet and you saw what was probably the best sight you had a pleasure to witness in the entirety of London. The young man was truly divine: his dark hair barely reached his shoulders and was a bit messy from the helmet; he had a stubble that was too short to be called a beard yet, but it was getting there; when he smiled, you could see small dimples forming on his cheeks. You felt stupid staring at him like that but couldn’t help it at all. With his stunning looks, the obvious accent you immediately took notice of sounded even more charming.

“Alright, not a talker, I see.”

The man stood up from his vehicle, pulled out a kickstand so that it wouldn’t just roll down the street and walked up to you, pulling up the collar of his leather jacket to shield his face from the rain.

“You said you had an umbrella.”

Kind of stupid of you to say, but you couldn’t really make up anything else that wouldn’t give out your infatuation.

“Just like that, huh? Could at least ask my name, you know.”

He didn’t wait for your response, holding his hand out to you.

“Sirius.”

You shook his hand, although yours was already pretty numb from the cold, and introduced yourself as well. You had to say something at that point because you started to look weirder and weirder by the second.

“That’s… an interesting name.”

Oh, come on. This is all you have?

“Bit rude, darling. What did you think it was?”

“Like… Matthew?”

The man laughed, just like you heard him laughing minutes ago. He wasn’t taunting you, no, on the contrary – he was rather amused by your mild naivety.

“Oh shit, do I look like a Matthew? I’m gutted, I have to say.”

You couldn’t help chuckling at his words. The rain didn’t feel so bad anymore, now that you had someone to share it with.

“Hop on. I have to get you to a pub, or else you’ll turn into a bloody icicle.”

He helped you get on his bike and soon you were riding straight through the streets of London with your hands wrapped around Sirius’ body. You felt it was a wee bit inappropriate for someone you met, like, five minutes ago, but you couldn’t say you didn’t like it. What is more, you expected raindrops to become some small annoying mosquitoes who would relentlessly bite your face during the ride but surprisingly, it didn’t happen. It almost felt like you actually had an invisible umbrella above you, because you glanced at a sleeve of your coat and it had become much drier than it was before.

The pub Sirius took you to looked like one of those places you saw on TV when the setting was supposed to be the UK. Lots of wooden furniture around, lightbulbs hanging from the ceiling and emitting warm and rather dim light. In the corner you saw an old record player with a small TV on top of it. You saw it as a symbol of modernity overtaking the old school, which epitomized London itself, but decided not to voice your thoughts in order not to appear as a nerd.

“Fancy a beer?” Sirius asked, leading you to a large counter.

In your mind you would much prefer some tea to warm yourself up, but the stranger was already too kind for you to make any extra demands of him. So, you just nodded and let him have free reign over the type of beer for you.

“We come here with my mates sometimes,” Sirius explained, having made an order while you made yourself comfortable on a bar stool.

“That’s nice.” You felt a bit awkward and out of place, but Sirius didn’t seem like the shady type, so you felt more comfortable with him than you would have likely felt with anyone else. “Do you watch rugby here?” You gestured towards the TV.

“I mean, if it’s on…” Sirius tried but failed to hide a chuckle. “That’s what the rest of the world thinks of us English lads, huh? That we hang at pubs and watch rugby all day?”

“To be fair, you took me to a pub.” You felt slightly embarrassed but attempted not to show it.

“That much’s true.”

You took a small sip out of a glass mug of beer placed in front of you. It wasn’t that bad, to be honest – a bit too bitter for your personal taste, but you could see yourself finishing the whole thing.

“Is this a British thing, beer in the afternoon?” you asked, looking at a huge grandfather clock behind the bar and remembering that it was, in fact, only midday.

“I guess, but I’ve always thought of it as a me thing.”

You held your mug in front of your face so that Sirius wouldn’t notice a huge smile forming on your face. You found everything about him irresistibly attractive – his voice, his mannerisms, his whole presence was alluring in a very authentic kind of way. It was obvious that in front of you he wasn’t pretending, he was just being himself.

“How did you know I wasn’t from here?” You finally had the courage to ask the question that had been pestering you for a while.

“Oh, it’s obvious,” Sirius replied, taking a swig of his beer. “You can always tell, it’s just how us Londoners are wired.”

You couldn’t really retort.

“Are you on holiday, or…?” Sirius went silent, letting you fill in the gap.

“I moved here a week ago,” you explained, feeling a very annoyed expression taking over your face. “Been trying to find an apartment but no luck so far.”

Sirius frowned a bit, thinking about something.

“I reckon I could help you, darling,” he finally told you with a playful smirk on his face. “I’d have to ask you for something in return though.”

“Oh, sure, I’ll pay!”

And you were ready to, because you had heard from someone that word of mouth was actually the best way to find an apartment on a budget these days. It’s just that you didn’t have this mouth before.

Sirius just grinned in response.

“Hey, that’s on me.”

He stopped your hand as it was reaching into your purse to take out your wallet and pay for your beer.

“Really?”

“Well, I dragged you here, so it’s only fair.”

Afterwards you stepped out of the pub to see daylight again. Fortunately, you discovered that it stopped raining and the sky was of a much lighter gray than before. Sirius caught up to you and stretched out his arm, wrapping it around your shoulder. You didn’t mind at all but were still quite stunned because, well, a teenager in you woke up and started internally screaming from this handsome stranger’s closeness.

“A nice weather we have here, darling. Which is super convenient as I don’t prefer driving drunk.”

Sirius looked like someone who would gladly drive drunk, you thought, but instead simply asked about the bike.

“A friend will take it,” he gave you a rather nonchalant reply, already headed somewhere to your left, with your hand now in his. “Come on, London doesn’t wait.”

“What if I have plans?” you tried to retort but your feet still carried you after Sirius and you weren’t going to stop them.

“Really? You just moved here, can’t find a flat and you have plans? Don’t believe it.” Sirius didn’t leave any room for objections as he was absolutely right. “Come o-o-on, darling, I know you want it.”

And for god’s sake, you did.

—

“So… Is this the part of the day when we say goodbye?”

All of a sudden you felt a wave of sadness coming over you. This day turned out to be truly magical and the last thing you wished for was for it to end. Sirius showed you everything, and you meant everything. He had his ways around the city that you would never even think to take, but they worked wonders, almost like some kind of portals transporting you from one place to another (but of course, it was just Sirius). Soon you could take pride in having explored pretty much all the central boroughs from inside and out. You, once again, had a very tourist-y experience of eating fish and chips in Hyde Park, and Sirius showed you an amazing little Chinese place where you promptly had dinner. You couldn’t have been thankful enough when he told you he would take it upon himself to look for an apartment – sorry, a flat – for you, but when you tried to give him some cash, he adamantly refused, so you were left wondering what he meant when he said he would ask for something in return. But most of all, you couldn’t really understand why he would do anything for you at all.

“I guess it is…” you mumbled, wishing with your whole heart you were wrong. But it was late, the sun hid behind the horizon hours ago and your eyes became increasingly more and more itchy.

“Well, we’re meeting tomorrow, so… Not so bad, huh?”

Sirius didn’t seem tired in the slightest, so you decided to just fire away and ask the question that had been swirling in your mind for the whole day.

“Why are you doing all this?”

“What do you mean?” Sirius raised his eyebrow and, judging by the look on his face, thought you were making a joke.

“I mean, you saw me on the street and just… took me under your wing, I guess. I wouldn’t have all this experience without you, London boy. And this apartment thing… It’s too generous. You don’t have to.”

“I know I don’t have to.” Sirius had the widest smile on his face. It was captivating and you didn’t even notice how you started smiling yourself. “But I want to, that’s it, darling. I really, really want to.”

His hands kept yours warm while he spoke. You had a sudden urge to do something you might or might not have regretted in the future. You stepped closer to Sirius, getting up on your toes and pecking his cheek ever so slightly, as if you were afraid to scare him away. Then you leaned away, staring at his face with worry in your eyes. Sirius slowly ran his fingers along his skin, where your lips just were, like he couldn’t believe what happened. Then, much to your surprise, he got closer and before you could realize it, your lips met his. They were a bit chapped, but the pleasure they brought you couldn’t have possibly belonged on planet Earth.

“I fancy you, foreign girl.”

Sirius pulled back and looked deep into your eyes. His gaze was so tender that you understood that from now on, London wouldn’t be such a bad place to live.

my masterlist

#sirius black x reader #sirius black x fem!reader #sirius black x y/n #sirius black x you #sirius black fanfiction #sirius black imagine #the marauders #the marauders era

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jaegeraether · 6 months

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Sunsets and footballers (Part 44)

Lucy Bronze x Reader (39) & Jordan Nobbs x Leah Williamson Mini (3)

Masterlist (other parts here)

((**This is now my largest chapter at 7.5k. Enjoy!**))

YFN had instantly fallen asleep in her seat on the plane and woke to the jolt of the landing gear absorbing the impact on touchdown. She shook her fatigue away and took her phone off flight mode. 11:15am UK time. She gave a sigh of relief that the flight had been quicker than usual. She knew she’d been cutting it close with the flight time and instead of Ruby picking her up as planned, she’d told her to go to the stadium instead so she could get an Uber. It worked out well, because it meant she had time to speak to Jordan without feeling rude talking in front of Ruby.

She collected her bags and timed the Uber well, hopping in immediately as she exited the building. The stadium was thirty minutes from the airport so she’d be arriving just at kick off. She wasn't too concerned, though. Bridget and Emily were also in Manchester for a 1300 game between Man City and Brighton and were getting a bit more experience up onsite with Ruby at her game. She was lucky to have such good workmates.

She slid into the cab with a polite hello and found the only contact with a fish in it.

“Hey chicken! How was Barcelona?”

“Oh my god, Dory, it was amazing. Absolutely amazing. But I’m dead on my feet.”

Jordan laughed. “I’m guessing Lucy didn’t let you sleep much?”

“Don’t be cheeky. But you are correct.”

“How many hours are you running on?”

She counted. “I had two hours sleep on the plane so…about five hours?”

“What?!”

“I think…I remember we had a ‘midnight snack’ but that was about 4am so…”

“You’re unbelievable. Priorities, right?”

YFN chuckled. “I have no regrets beyond the struggle to walk-”

“Oh god! I don’t want to hear it.”

They both laughed together.

“How are you? Tell me everything.”

Jordan hummed and then proceeded to tell YFN about her dreams and the flowers and note that morning.

“Why didn’t you lead with that?!”

“I don't know. Good news before bad?”

“You think the flowers and note are bad news?”

“I don’t know. My head’s all over the place from the dreams. They were good and bad, but it’s just wrecked me emotionally.”

“I understand that…it’s not great for game day. Are you on your way there now?”

“Yeah, I’m on the bus. We have another hour and a half to go.”

“Well, you can’t resolve these emotions before the game because that would be a miracle. So how about you put a movie on and distract yourself? Don’t sleep, you won’t be able to.

“Yeah, I think I’ll do that to be fair…”

“Perfect. Have you messaged her?”

“No. I can’t do that today. Trying not to mess with my head before the game.”

“That’s all good, I was going to suggest maybe not responding until after the game.”

“You’re doing two games today, aren’t you?”

YFN’s mouth almost dropped open. “You have no idea how proud I am that you remembered that? I told you a while ago...”

“Oh, sorry, I should probably keep up my forgetfulness, right? Who are you again?”

YFN laughed. “I love forgetful Dory. She’s my favourite. Along with cuddly Dory. Football Dory though…jeez she’s terrifying.”

“I definitely will be today.”

“Get those emotions out, girl! Just don’t hurt anyone or get red carded please.”

“No promises.”

“As for your question, yep. I have the 1200 Man United versus West Ham game at Leigh and then the 1845 Arsenal versus Leicester game at King Power.”

“Oh that's right! Kyra…”

YFN had obviously told Jordan about Kyra. They both thought it was cute.

“Yes ma’am.”

“Our bus will drop us back at Villa Park about 7pm tonight…I can drive and meet you there?”

YFN could tell that Jordan needed comfort, and most of her friends were in London. She did the timing math in her head.

“You’d arrive about 8pm tonight with the traffic…how about you get a lift with my guy, Matt? He’s relocating to my game and then driving me back to Birmingham after it’s done.”

“Oh, yeah! That works out brilliant, that does. God, you’re so good at this logistics stuff. I just kick a ball around.”

YFN had a giggle at the visual image and messaged Matt. “And you look great doing it. Plus, you do more than that and you know it.”

“Yeah, yeah.”

YFN bit her lip as she thought a little. Jordan needed some love, and she knew just what to do. “What do you think about us asking Katie and Caitlin to stay the night? We’ll all finish up around 9pm in Leicester so they’ll have overnight accommodation. If I message them then they’ll have time for the team to cancel their room. They can come home with us.”

“Ohhh I didn’t think of that! See, this is why you’re the best.”

YFN grinned at the sound of genuine happiness in Jordan’s voice. She knew she missed them a lot.

She looked up and could see the stadium approaching in the distance. “I’m excited! Okay, I’m almost at the stadium. I’ll message the group.”

“Okay, love you!”

“Love you more. I’m so excited to see you tonight! Have a good game today, please. Smash it.”

They hung up happy and she opened a message from Matt that replied with an excited yes. Being a Villa supporter meant his dream just came true. YFN wondered how the car ride with them would be to Leicester and couldn’t help but be amused.

YFN then put a message in their little four-way group. Caitlin was usually the first to respond whether it be message or Instagram, and today was no exception. She’d answered an unequivocal yes for the both of them before she’d even stepped foot into the stadium.

The national anthems were playing just as she arrived and met up with her workmates. Bridget was running the boundary line, excitedly videoing the singing while Emily and Ruby were taking photos.

“Hey, Em.”

“YFN! Hi!” She gushed, wearing her purple and yellow Lumos hoodie. YFN was wearing Lucy’s hoodie so she opted for a beanie instead. “How was your flight?”

“I slept the entire trip,” she admitted with a chuckle.

Emily snapped a few shots of the starting line-ups.

“How are you and Bridget?”

“Oh, great! Yeah, we’re excited to be staying in Manchester tonight. Because we all have tomorrow off, we have plans to sight see and visit some family.”

They chatted for a little longer when YFN recognised the photographer from the last game she’d been to. The one who followed her home. She pretended to not notice him as she kept speaking to Emily and then made her way around the field to get a few good videos and say hi to Ruby and Bridget also. Bridget was running a mile a minute as she usually did, and Ruby mentioned that she had a date with Matt the next day. Ruby also ran a mile a minute, just with her mouth rather than her legs like Bridget. The whistle blew.

“Oh are those two already leaving already?” She asked rhetorically as Bridget and Emily waved on the way out. “Aw I didn’t say bye! Anyways, Matt said he’d take me on a date but I don’t know where-” she snapped a few photos and then cringed at the tackle she’d just captured, “-and I know it’s going to be amazing because we’ve been talking for a while now and…well not a while but since we all met and we were first partnered up-” she jogged further up the field to take another and came back when she was satisfied, “-and we’ve both been talking about supervising this next group of people coming in and we’re so excited for them to join us-” she took photos while YFN pulled her phone out to get a good Instagram video of Man United’s goal as they were both standing just a few metres from the West Ham goal. Goal number one, just three minutes in. YFN uploaded the video straight to their social media with an update on the score, “-and I just think it’s going to be amazing to have so many people with us. Is that guy staring at us?”

YFN turned to the photographer who’d been following her around the boundary, more focussed on her than the game.

“Yeah…just ignore him. He won’t hurt us.” She said, repeating what Catherine had said to her. Phone still on video mode in her hand, she pressed record but before she could lift her arm up to video him, they were interrupted.

“Now, now, physical violence isn’t my thing.” The voice teased from behind them.

YFN didn’t even have to turn, but she did out of polite habit as Mark stepped next to her, his eyes focussed on the game. She kept her phone on record and down near her body, but angling the mic towards him.

“Mark.”

“YFN. I hear you had a lovely trip up to Edinburgh to meet your…controversial leader.”

Ruby frowned, not understanding.

“He’s just teasing,” she assured. “Could you give us a minute?”

Ruby nodded and headed back up the field.

“So none of them know then?”

“What could you possibly be referring to, Mark?”

“Joanne.” He almost hissed. “That heartless woman.”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

“Well let me be clear, then. I know your boss. She took something from me, so I’m going to tear her whole fucking business down.”

“Which business would that be?”

“The only one not protected by a board. Lumos. Her baby that she’s trying so desperately to hide. And you know exactly how I’m going to start?”

“By getting a photographer to follow me?”

He gave a grin that sent shivers down her spine. “Something along those lines.”

He handed her a large yellow envelope. Against her better judgement, she took it and looked inside. She found several printed photos of herself and Lucy kissing at the airport. The photos weren’t the best quality, they looked like they’d been taken on a phone, but still…it was disturbing.

She turned her attention back to the game as if she were unbothered. “Congratulations. You gave me photos of my girlfriend and I. You do realise that we are public? We have nothing to hide.”

“You don’t think that someone in your position dating one of the most famous footballers of all time is a conflict of interest? Let me give you some advice…people will care. Whoever Joanne has investing in her company will. And this is just the start. I’ll get more and more dirt on not just you, but your workmates also. I’ll drag you all into the fucking ground.”

She sharply breathed in. “You want to ruin a good thing for a little rivalry?”

“A good thing?” He scoffed. “Nobody wants to watch women play. Look around you. The stands are only filled with friends and family. As for everyone who works at Lumos…” He shrugged. “Collateral.”

YFN let herself look at him. He was determined and deadly serious.

“See that photographer? Get used to seeing him around. As for Joe…tell her I’m going to tear down her company before it even begins.”

It was a dominant display by Manchester United who ended up winning 5-0 with five different goal scorers. YFN felt for West Ham who she’d grown a soft spot for since her visit, and especially felt empathetic for their Captain, Mackenzie Arnold, a fellow Australian, as she was the goalkeeper. She couldn’t imagine how hard it must have been mentally after a game like that. You’d feel like it was all your fault while having to be the one to pull the team together.

A few of the players wandered over to her after the match, one being Mackenzie. She gave her a hug and surprisingly agreed to an interview. She interviewed her alongside Mary Earps, letting the two talk business. Mary didn’t exactly have a quiet game, she’d had shots that she’d saved and they both bantered about that, with YFN steering the questions when and where she wanted. The fact that they both pointed out the brilliance in several different moments of each teams and gushed over not just their team but the opposite was the exact reason she’d fallen in love with women’s football. After those two, she interviewed Kirsty Smith and Riko Ueki with Ella Toone and Lucia Garcia. The dynamics of who she put together were interesting and got the results she wanted. She felt like she was Graham Norton putting interesting guests on and leading them here and there with questions, making sure they each felt acknowledged and appreciated for their time and their skill on the pitch.

They finished up around 2:30pm and stopped for a late lunch and some quick editing and posts before they started their two-and-a-half-hour drive to Leicester for their next game. It was only early evening, and YFN could already feel herself getting tired.

As they got into the car, Ruby noted that and told her to get some sleep. She had no idea that Ruby could be quiet for long enough and was pleasantly surprised.

Just before she went to sleep, she sent the video recording of Mark’s voice to Catherine who she knew was busy with few royal duties, and then she fell asleep just after she put her phone on charge.

YFN woke to the loud sound of her phone ringing and she jumped, her face feeling half numb from the window. The car was stopped and she looked outside to Ruby who’d noticed her wake and gave her a thumbs up from the fuel bowser. She gave one back and answered the phone without checking the caller ID.

“YFN! Are you okay?!”

She recognised the voice immediately. “Cath- I mean. Joe? Wow, you really did a great job of sounding not yourself before we met.”

Catherine gave a light chuckle. “One of my secret talents. I listened to your video. Did he threaten you?”

“Not physically, just what you heard on the video.”

“He’s absolutely insistent and much more of a pain than I’d expected.” She sounded annoyed and that was amusing to YFN as she was always painted as the perfect Princess. “I’m so sorry. I spoke to Joe and even she is surprised. He will not hurt you. If you feel unsafe at all, I will hire security.”

“That’s okay, I think we’re okay for now. He seems to be all bark at the moment..”

“He is, I assure you. Also, there is no conflict of interest here. I’m aware of your relationship. We are not even covering her games yet and when we do, it is absolutely not a conflict of interest. The man doesn’t know what he’s talking about. I know you, I chose you for a reason and your judgement, and your actions won’t be compromised by your relationship. Not only that, but there’s nothing in which to base these allegations on just yet. I understand the implications that may occur with you interviewing her and potentially being seen as biased, but I’ve seen your work, I’ve seen you interview friends and colleagues without that bias. I chose carefully.” She sighed. “My plan was for us to build your reputation in the field so high it would surpass any of these allegations before they even occurred.”

“I appreciate the support, and I promise that anything to do with Lucy or her team against another team will not be an issue. I want everyone and every team to be represented, regardless of if they’re against her or not.”

“Perfect. We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it, I think. In the meantime, you don’t need to hide your relationship. I’d never ask or expect that of you.”

“Thank you…also I’m assuming part of your security check on us is that you look for anything controversial which may be used against us like this?”

She hesitated. “Yes. I don’t like it, but we need to protect ourselves and the business from any potential threats…”

“I understand, and I agree.” Ruby hopped back into the car then with a grin. “You have my support…Joe.”

Catherine took the hint. “He won’t find anything controversial on the other employees because there is nothing. We just need to stay a tight knit group and continue our jobs.”

“Copy that, will do. Would you like me to send out a group memo about him?”

Ruby started to drive again.

“Yes, absolutely. If you don’t mind, I’ll write it and you send it?”

“Perfect, that saves me the work.”

“Lastly, the office won’t be ready tomorrow.”

“Oh?” Her interest peaked at that. She could be with Lucy on her day off. Jonatan had been giving her more days off with her knee. She only had to train four days this week, Tuesday to Friday.

“It’s all related. Mark somehow managed to talk to the local council…anyways I’m sorting it. It’ll be ready by Wednesday, I promise you.”

“Okay. That’s perfectly fine. I’ll meet up with the real estate agent and then the original ten of us will settle in and prep for the new group to arrive.”

“I thought it would be best to start the new group on Thursday instead because of the timing with the office date moving, but I wanted to check with you first to make sure you weren’t losing too much preparation time with them for the next round?”

YFN thought about it a little. Their first game was Saturday, and it was the only one. Catherine had gotten permission for ten employees at that game which allowed her to send two original crew with a full new crew to train. “I think Thursday will work. It’ll give us two full days to cover everything which is enough, and for eight of them, they’ll get experience on Saturday at Stamford Bridge. If I feel we need more, I’ll organise Saturday with the others not at the game to prep more.”

“Agreed! We think very much alike, you know.” It was a compliment that made her blush.

Catherine asked if she had any more questions before the call ended. She wasn’t surprised it wasn’t a long conversation, as she knew she’d been busy all day with regular duties and then Mark’s drama in the background. She couldn’t help but think about the possibility of booking a flight to Barcelona to spend the next two days with Lucy, as she knew she had the next day off. She could explore Barcelona with Narla and do a bit of work on the Tuesday while Lucy was training… She bit her lip and shook her head. Jordan needed her. Jordan was her priority. Thinking of, she looked up Jordan’s game which was almost finished. It had been fairly even all game and Jordan had been subbed on in the 65th minute, having a goal attempt in the 66th minute. YFN smiled as she watched Jordan running around, looking frustrated which was so opposite to her everyday self. Aston Villa were up 1-0 and she watched while Ruby listened to the end of the game. Multiple fouls were made by both teams. Aston Villa scored a second goal. A foul by Jordan at the 90 minute mark. And then it was over. Jordan had only played 30 minutes, but she’d made an impact. YFN sent Jordan a message saying how proud she was of her.

They arrived in Leicester around 5:45pm and stopped at a local café for another snack and a drink before the game. Being too early at the stadium meant boredom. They made sure to arrive around 6:15pm and set their equipment up, capturing the players during warm up. The Leicester players exited first to warm up and a few came over to chat. Luck have it, Courtney was one of them. Australians tended to flock together outside of Australia, she realised. YFN asked if she’d do an interview after the game and she agreed for the price of a hoodie. She liked Courtney and could see why Kyra did too. They were both cheeky.

“Hey stranger.”

YFN turned to see Leah’s smile as she stepped next to her. She was alone and not in kit, not quite ready to play after her ACL.

“Leah!” She smiled, pulling her into a hug. She liked Leah, regardless of her issues with Jordan, and she’d previously spoken to Jordan about their little growing friendship. She was okay with it, of course, otherwise YFN wouldn’t have been so forward. “How are you?”

“Oh mate, desperate to get onto that field, I’m telling ya.” She looked longingly at the pitch and then back to YFN. “I watched your interviews. They’re great! I don’t know why anyone hasn’t interviewed like that before.”

“The ones from last week?”

“Yeah and this morning. I loved it, honestly. I’ll be happy to do interviews anytime with you, just let me know.”

“That’s just given me an idea…” She hummed as she thought.

“Taking me up on the offer already?” She laughed.

“Actually I’ve been trying to work out different segments and ideas that would make us stand out from other companies….you’re not playing today. There are always players who are not playing but watching their teams. So it might be a good idea to get players willing to on the sidelines with us to interview and to film some of the snippets we upload with their own perspective and jokes and insight. Sort of like when you’re excitedly screaming motivation at the girls from the bench, but this time they’d be in snippets for our social media. It’ll promote the team and show just how supportive all of the players are with each other. Plus, I think it'd be hilarious.”

“Sort of like when they mic up the cricket players?”

“EXACTLY.”

“Put me in, coach. I love the sound of that. Plus, if it mucks up, you can just blame me.”

“You are 100% my scapegoat if it goes bad.” She laughed. “You’d be willing to today?”

She shrugged. “I have nothing else going on and I’m used to the camera so why not.”

“Perfect! Yeah, oh that’s so exciting-” She stopped and bit her lip as she thought of Jordan.

“What is it?”

“Um…maybe not today? Maybe next game?”

The frustrating thing was that she didn’t know yet if she’d even be at Arsenal’s next game. It depended on the roster.

“YFN, just tell me.”

“So…hm…here’s the thing…”

“Please don’t tell me this is about Jordan?” She asked, a little upset. “I was hoping that wouldn’t affect our relationship…”

“It won’t! Dory’s fine with us being friends. It’s just…”

“Spit it out, mate.”

“She’s going to be here in under an hour.”

She swore Leah paled. She definitely froze. “Oh.”

“Yeah…so she’ll already be with me on the sidelines for company.”

“She just finished a game…” she looked at her watch. “…so if she’s coming here I guess it’s to talk about us?”

“Leah…”

“She told you about this morning?”

“Yes.”

“Okay.” She groaned and ran her hand through her hair. “Look, I don’t know your opinion on everything and I don’t want to drag you into it all, but I promise you I just want the best for Jordan.”

“And the best for Jordan is you?”

Leah held her eye contact. “Yes. Just…I know I don’t have the right to ask but I will. Can you please maybe tell Jordan it wouldn’t be such a bad thing to go with me this Friday night to the awards? I want to win her back, to be there for her but I can’t without opportunity to actually be around her.”

“I won’t convince her to do something she doesn’t want to…”

“I wouldn’t expect you to. Just…advocate for me? You don’t have to push it. Just…please?”

“I’ll have a talk to her,” she murmured.

“CHICKEN!”

The Arsenal players were headed out for their warm up and most were headed her way led by the Irishwoman who was being overtaken by a smiley, wavy Kyra.

“Thank you, I really appreciate it. Also, I can still do that thing with you, I can be over the other side away from Jordan if she doesn’t want me near.”

“Thanks Leah, I’ll ask her about it when she gets here,” she replied with a smile.

“Ask who about what?!” Kyra asked as she landed on YFN’s back. YFN’s hands immediately caught her legs.

“Oof. You do realise I’m small, right?”

“Yeah, but I knew you’d catch me. When’s Nobbs here?”

A few of the Arsenal girls looked awkward because Leah was there. “It’s okay…” she assured them. “She’ll be here during the first half.”

“Okaaaaay.”

“Oh, also Kyra invited herself tonight.” Caitlin said as she wrestled Kyra off of YFN so she and Katie could give her a hug.

“Tonight? Where was our invite?” Beth asked.

YFN grinned sheepishly. “Our apartment isn’t big enough for the entire Arsenal squad…”

“I’m just joking, this one wants an early sleep anyways,” she said as she nudged Viv who looked unimpressed as usual.

“Aw what a granny!” Kyra teased.

YFN couldn’t help but laugh at the look on Viv’s face. Kyra giggled at her joke, ducking away from Caitlin’s motherly swat to the back of the head when a blue shirt appeared amongst the red and Kyra stilled.

“Hey…”

“Courtney!” YFN replied, making sure she didn’t feel left out. “Hey!”

Courtney looked around, her eyes finding Kyra and then tearing them away pretending she hadn’t looked at her. “Just letting you know Sam and Sophie are both good for the interview after the game. Do you know who it’ll be with?”

“Awesome! Yeah, I was hoping Beth and Frida would be up for it…”

“Me? Yes please! Not sure if I’ll be subbed on though,” Beth said eagerly.

Viv rolled her eyes. “She’ll be subbed on.”

“FRIDA!” Katie yelled.

“FRIDA!!” Beth yelled shortly after. Viv covered her ears and YFN chuckled at that.

The blonde spun around and jogged over. “Yes?”

Frida Maanum was a Norwegian midfielder who’d been with Arsenal since 2021. She was rarely chosen to be interviewed and softly spoken, so YFN thought it’d be great to involve her and help her confidence out with Beth who she could always rely on to talk if she didn’t.

“Want to do an interview with me after the game? YFN wants to know.”

Frida looked over at YFN with a polite hello wave. “It’s going to be with Sam Tierney and Sophie Howard from Leicester. You can absolutely say no if you want.”

“You want me?” She sounded surprised.

“Of course she wants ya, you’re amazin’.” Katie said with a playful grab of her shoulder.

“O…okay. Yeah.” She smiled at YFN which made the Australian feel good for asking.

“Aw, I’ll look after you mate! No need to be nervous!” Beth said loudly, extending an arm around her shoulder.

“So…Beth and Frida,” YFN said to Courtney with a smile. “And then you and Kyra. Is that okay Kyra?”

“Yeah that’s cool.” Kyra said, suddenly quiet.

Courtney’s eyes widened hearing that she’d be interviewed with Kyra. YFN knew it was sneaky of her but it was an opportunity for Courtney to reject the idea before she surprised her with her ex. Not that they were ever public knowledge.

“Okay. I’ll see you after the game.” She said, directed straight at YFN but she knew it was more for Kyra from the tone of it.

Caitlin and YFN shared a sheepish look.

“Come on girls, Jonas is about to kick our asses. Let’s get warmin’ up!” Katie ordered.

“If you see me shouting from the sidelines, it’s because I’m mic’d up!” Leah warned them and received some amused looks in return.

“You’d better not be focusin’ on my ass.” Katie teased.

Caitlin messed up Kyra’s hair. “You’d better be focusing on this one’s debut!”

They all jogged off and Leah turned to YFN.

“Okay boss, where do you want me?”

Jordan and Matt arrived just after 7pm, both with wide grins. Matt because he’d just spent a car ride with Jordan and Jordan because of YFN.

“Dory! Come here!” She took her friend in a hug big enough to lift the footballer off the ground and a few Arsenal fans spotted Jordan and shouted their love for her as she did so.

“I missed you.” She mumbled into Lucy’s hoodie.

“It’s been a day. Needy, hm?”

“I’m always needy.” Jordan grumbled as she put her down.

“I missed you too.” YFN chuckled before turning to Matt. “You look excited, mate.”

He was still grinning ear to ear and nodded.

“I think I tired him out with all the talking, to be fair.”

“I’m glad you two got on for the drive then. Matt, are you okay taking a few of us back to Birmingham tonight? If not, I can ask Ruby…”

“Yes!” He almost shouted and then cleared his throat. “Um, yes, of course. Who..?

“Uh Dory, Katie, Caitlin, Kyra and myself. Oh actually that won’t work… Ruby will have to take some of us anyways… maybe those three and I’ll ask Ruby if she can take Kyra and I.”

“Done.”

“How was the game?”

“Yeah, great. Noel and I got some great footage. A few of the girls were asking about interviews but I said we’d start next week.”

“Next week hopefully… and congrats on Aston Villa’s first win for the season?!”

“Yeah!” Jordan grinned. “I wasn’t on for long but I think I did alright.”

Loud noises from the crowd turned their attention to Leicester running towards goal. The ball was pushed out by Lotte for a corner.

“I’ll go record that.” Matt said as he ran towards the goal up the side of the pitch. Jordan spotted Leah behind the goal then.

“Leah…?”

“You had to have expected her to be here,” YFN teased.

“Well yeah but…is she recording with a phone?”

“I have her mic’d up for some footage. Trying something new out and she’s helping.”

Jordan frowned but her eyes remained on her, mixed emotions in her eyes.

The crowd went wild as Leicester scored from their corner. Jordan swore. The game reset.

“She really wants you to go with her on Friday..”

Jordan’s eyes flicked up to meet hers. “She said that? What else did she say?”

“Nothing you don’t already know… that she wants the best for you, she wants to win you back, and she wants an opportunity to do so.”

Jordan groaned. “I can’t. We rarely went to events together before. Now she wants to show me off to the world like I’m hers when I’m not?”

“I think she just wants a night with you, Jords…”

“Nope. No way. Unless she has another plus one and you come to chaperone us.”

YFN tilted her head. It wasn’t football but… “I could get an invite?”

Jordan spun back around. “You could?”

“My boss can 100% get me a ticket. Now, did you mean it?”

“I mean…” she looked over at Leah. “If you’re going, I will.”

“And is this really what you want?”

Jordan got a little frustrated and pouted, trying to think. She was a bundle of confused emotions and the dreams wouldn’t have helped. YFN put her arm around her and pulled her close.

“What do you think?”

“I think whatever this is, you need to resolve it. The best way to do that is communication. I think you should go. Sooner or later it’s going to be clear to you if you do or don’t want to have her back in your life.”

Leah looked over at the pair, her and Jordan looking at each other. She nodded. “I’ll go.”

“You’re sure?”

“I think I wanted to, I just didn’t want to admit it. Plus, you’ll be there now so it’ll be less awkward.” She grinned up at her.

YFN rolled her eyes and messaged ‘Joe’. Just as she finished the message, Leicester was surging forward, forward, forward, and tucked away their second goal. Two goals in two minutes. A terrible start for Arsenal.

Jordan settled next to YFN, following her and her camera around, watching the game intently. She always wanted the best for Arsenal. They had more of a catch up in between photos that she’d changed to as Matt was now doing the videography. YFN didn’t miss Leah off and on staring across at them just as longingly as she stared at the pitch she missed. Jordan and YFN gradually moved closer to Leah through that first half, though Leah ducked away to the change rooms for half time with her girls.

While it was half time, Ruby, Matt and YFN on worked on their footage while they talked.

“New office tomorrow?!” Matt asked excitedly.

“Oh…no. That’s been delayed until Wednesday. Waiting on approvals. New group are now starting Thursday.”

“You’re not going to Barcelona?” Jordan asked. “Doesn’t Lucy have tomorrow off?”

“You spoke with her?”

“Yeah she messaged me. I assumed you suggested it,” she laughed, “she’s terrible at messaging.”

“Not with me.” YFN winked. “Also that was all her, I promise.”

Jordan rolled her eyes and nudged her almost off her chair. “She misses you.”

“I was there this morning…”

“You miss her too.”

“Dory…” She groaned.

“No.” She said, putting her hand on the camera YFN was playing with which made her look up at her. Ruby and Matt shifted a little nervously as they could do nothing but listen. Jordan looked serious. “Don’t you dare stay here tonight just for me. You barely get any time with her as it is. She’s my friend too, and I like to see her happy. And you happy. And you’re both never as happy as when you’re together.” YFN opened her mouth to argue but Jordan continued. “Let me live vicariously through you. You’ve already done enough, I have Katie and Caitlin and Kyra tonight! They need a bed.”

“You’re kicking me out of our apartment?” YFN laughed.

“Only if you can find a flight.”

She put her camera down and took Jordan into a warm, long hug, mumbling into her. “I love you, Dory. You know that? If we’re both single in five years, I’m going to propose.”

Jordan laughed but they were both emotional. They just wanted the best for each other. “Okay but Blu will be ring-bearer.”

YFN laughed back into her and sat back, wiping tears away that she didn’t even know had formed.

“You’re putting Kyra on the couch?”

“I’ll let her share my bed if she shuts up.”

“She’s only small, she’ll be asleep before you all finish dinner. She tends to tire herself out fast, the little baby.”

“Little baby,” Jordan mimicked adoringly. “Now look for flights. I’ll message Lucy.”

“Or…how about we make it a surprise?”

“I love it! If she thinks you’re robbing her and knocks you out though, that’s not on me.”

She did wonder what Lucy’s reaction would be. She found a flight from Birmingham to Barcelona at 11pm.

“Won’t you need her to unlock the door?”

“I have keys…”

“You two are adorable.”

“I found an 11pm flight from Birmingham…”

“Do you think you’ll make that?!” Ruby asked. “I’m happy to take you…”

“That…sort of works out perfect because then the girls will all fit in Matt’s car. Um…the game finishes at 8:30pm. Interviews until 9pm. Arrive at the airport around 10pm. Cutting it close for international but it’s a late flight and nobody will be there… I think we can make it?” She shrugged and booked the flight anyways. If she didn’t make it, it wasn’t meant to be.

Jordan grinned. “Tell her to thank me when you get there.”

“Honestly, I’m probably going to be passed out from fatigue all day and not even get the chance.”

Her phone buzzed. It was the flight confirmation.

“Are you sure?” She asked Jordan. Sure, she’d already booked the flight, but it was cheap and she didn’t care. She wanted Jordan to be okay.

Jordan grabbed her around the shoulders and smiled. “I promise it’s okay. You’ve really cheered me up today and helped with my Friday night decision. Plus, I have the girls tonight. We both know you’ll just pass out anyways.”

“How dare you…” she laughed as the crowd began cheering loudly as the players re-entered the field. Ruby and Matt got to work. She stood to do the same when her phone buzzed again.

Joe: Done, they sent us through two invitations. Check your emails. Enjoy!

She grinned at the message and then at Jordan.

“What?” She handed her phone over and Jordan took it, an ecstatic look crossing her face. “Yes mate!”

She took her phone back and pocketed it, holding her camera up to take photos of the players as they ran out.

“One condition.”

“Anything.”

She jerked her head towards Leah who was wandering over to the pair. “You tell her.”

Jordan groaned. “Okay but at the end of the night. She can sweat until then.”

YFN chuckled at that.

Starting the second half 2-0 against them meant Arsenal had to push deep. And they did. Arsenal kicked six goals in the second half. Their first came at a hesitation from Courtney which YFN felt terrible for. She was next to Leah when that happened who filmed a mic’d up scream of joy from behind the Leicester goal as the shot went in. Slowly Jordan gravitated towards Leah more during the match, Leah managing to let her come at her own pace. The rest of the match was an absolute riot. Caitlin with an assist and a goal, Katie with an assist, and Kyra with multiple attempts at goal. She was shocked when she saw Courtney take Kyra down in the 83rd minute and wondered just how much of the history between them she didn’t know. The game ended 2-6 Arsenal. A complete second half dominance that had Leah screaming with joy on the sidelines. It turned out to be the perfect day to test the mic’d up segment, as she posted the live updates with video’s Leah had taken of her yelling at the girls running towards goal and screaming, turning the camera around on herself to show her celebrating. It was great content.

Regardless of the outcome, the Leicester players still came over for their interviews. First she had Sam, Sophie, Frida and Beth who actually did get some game time and almost a first goal since she’d come back from her ACL tear. Beth was the loudest, of course, and helped Frida to open up a bit. Frida had some back and forth with the Leicester girls talking about some of the plays including Sam’s goal. Overall, she was happy with the results of the interview, and how much the girls had come out of their shells.

Next was her interview with Courtney and Kyra who seemed equally nervous next to each other. They knew each other well though. YFN waited to sense the overall mood before she allowed herself to go in with some cheeky questions about Courtney’s tackle on Kyra, and Kyra’s debut. Her goal was to get them to start teasing each other, and it worked. At first, they didn’t want to address each other, and after a few comments here and there, it was more them talking and throwing cheeky comments to each other, and YFN could almost sit back and enjoy watching the show. She had to steer it a few times of course, both were young, but the tension between the two was obvious. For the sake of the viewers and their privacy, YFN made sure to make it known to the camera that they were teammates and brought up that they went to school together as justification which started a whole other line of questioning about their start in football.

Only when she was satisfied that she’d helped them break whatever awkwardness they’d previously had, did she end the interview, but not before she told Kyra how proud she was of her on camera for her debut. Courtney gave her a proud shove for that too.

Being Australians, and women, they all hugged their goodbyes, Kyra whispering a thanks into her ear. As they were packing up, she could see them still chatting as Courtney was being called away. She gave Kyra her phone and she typed into it what YFN assumed was her number. Courtney gave an awkward wave, obviously not knowing whether a hug was appropriate, and ran into the change rooms. Kyra turned to YFN with a grin and a little fist pump. It was adorable.

She looked past Kyra to where Leah and Jordan were standing, Jordan telling her she’d go on Friday. Leah’s expression flashed excitement before she contained it, and then it went a little shy as she pretended to be calm about it. They didn’t speak for long, just enough for Jordan to agree before she wandered off with Leah’s eyes following her longingly. She watched for a while until she met YFN’s eye and blushed, having been caught. She mouthed a ‘thank you’ to which she gave a smile in return.

“We really need to go.” Ruby stressed. She looked at the time and groaned. She only had time for quick goodbyes with everyone and a threat to Katie and Caitlin to not have sex in her bed. Katie seemed to enjoy the idea of the threat, to be honest, and that terrified her.

She rushed through security as quickly as possible and was the last person to board the flight, sweating and grateful she’d made it, though cursing herself for having to stay longer just to make sure Kyra and Courtney were good. As with her morning flight, she passed out immediately and wished she had a chance for a shower before seeing Lucy. Instead of a shower, she tidied herself up in the bathroom at the Barcelona airport when she touched down, changing her clothes and washing away the day. She brushed her teeth and did her nightly makeup routine, ignoring some funny looks. She sure as hell wasn’t going to let her skin suffer more than it already was with the change in weather between the UK and Spain.

Her Uber dropped her off at just before 3am and for some reason she was nervous, jiggling the keys Lucy had given her in her hands and playing with the little flags. At the front door she took a deep breath in and unlocked the door, entering as quietly as possible so as to not wake Lucy or Narla. She kicked off her shoes and left her suitcase in the entrance, not wanting to risk the wheels waking them. The smell as she walked into the house was home. Vanilla and bitter orange, and whatever the hell Lucy had been cooking for dinner. She swore she could even smell the big breakfast they’d had that morning. She looked at the trophy Lucy still had out and smiled, putting her phone on charge next to it before tip-toeing her way into the bedroom.

Lucy was quite literally dead asleep. She was on her back facing YFN’s side of the bed, one hand touching the pillow YFN had been sleeping on the night before. She was beautiful. She loved seeing her so vulnerable and herself. Her dark hair was spread out over the pillow, another thing she loved. Lucy with her hair down. She clicked the door closed quietly and snuck around to her side of the bed, avoiding Lucy’s collection of shoes around the bed. She carefully laid down and when she touched Lucy’s hand to move it, she jerked awake, her head rising and her eyes opening.

“It’s just me.” She whispered and put a hand to her cheek, coming closer so Lucy could see her better without her glasses.

“What? What?” She was dazed and confused, her body tense.

“Shhh. Shhhh.” She comforted and cuddled up to her, her head finding Lucy’s collarbone. “It’s okay, it’s just me. I’m sorry for scaring you.”

“Little one?” She asked, unbelieving. “You…you’re here.”

Her arms wrapped around YFN tighter than they ever had before, holding her close to her body, her own body softening into her. “Is everything okay?!”

“Everything’s fine, Luce. I have the next two days off. I’m all yours.”

Lucy groaned happily and kissed her wherever she could reach.

“Sleep now, Luce.”

“You’re home,” she whispered huskily with emotion, her voice already fading.

“I’m home.”

156 notes · View notes

assortedseaglass · 1 year

Text

Come Back To Me - Chapter Eight

Billy Washington x OFC

[Masterlist]

Warnings: Language, Mentions of Racism, SMUT, Trigger Point (TV) Spoilers

Author’s Note: Thank you so much for all the support you have given me on this; I was so scared to share any writing before and you have all made me fall back in love with it! I was initially only going to do one more chapter, but I think it’ll be two, just to tie it all up! More notes at the end.

Word Count: 6.8K

“Are you sure you’re going to be ok on your own?” Sofia said, worrying her bottom lip as she leant against the kitchen door.

“Stop!” Ida laughed from the living room sofa. “I’ll be fine, and if I need anything, I’ve got gran and these guys.” She held up a battered copy of Lady Chatterley’s Lover.

Sofia wolf whistled. “Spicy. We really do need to get you a fella,” she joked. At that moment, Faisal popped his head around the corner.

“Taxi’s here, babe.”

“Promise me you’re ok with us going-”

“Leave her alone, Sofia!” Faisal cut in. “She’s a grown woman!”

“Thank you, Faisal,” Ida replied. “Now hurry up and get to the airport. And send me a postcard!” Sofia pecked Ida on the cheek as Faisal saluted, and in a moment, they were gone. Through the open balcony window, Ida heard Sofia and Faisal chatting to who she assumed was the taxi driver before the slamming of doors and the cab driving away.

The July heatwave had at last been broken by the first of the summer storms. Water thundered across the flat’s roof, fat drops dripping off the balcony awning onto the street below. The neon signs of shop fronts were reflected in by the rain-soaked roads, and from the window, Ida could see forks of lightning hit the skyline of the city ahead. This downpour had lasted for days, and Ida welcomed it. It was a week since the incident at Cranstead Fields, and she and Billy hadn’t spoken.

In the days after Billy’s rescue, Ida retreated to the flat to be cared for by Sofia and Faisal. Those first few nights, Sofia slept in Ida’s bed, cradling her when she woke with fresh nightmares. Nightmares where she hadn’t reached Billy in time. These were only intensified by the writing of a report for EXPO, with the help of Lana, about that day’s events.

After that, Ida spent her time walking, miles and miles through London’s parks and backstreets. One day, she caught the tube to Chalk Farm and walked to the top of Primrose Hill. The notepad and book in her bag sat untouched as she watched couples entwined on the grass, children riding bikes and running around, singular old men and women walking their dogs against the backdrop of the city. When the rains eventually came, she nestled on the sofa of the lounge with a stack of books and blankets. Ida slept more often than not, and her waking hours were filled with the distraction of books. Romances, mostly. She asked Sofia and Faisal if they could leave the balcony door open; Ida had always loved the sound of heavy rain, and she needed the fresh, open air just to remind her she was alive. Gwen would occasionally stop by with food, soups and cakes usually, and news of the Washingtons.

According to her grandma, the only time Lana’s car left the driveway was to come and help Ida with her report. The Washington’s door was never closed such was the constant stream of visitors for Billy, “even that Becky girl came over.” Ida had tried to not let this affect her, but that evening she, Sofia and Faisal sank a whole bottle of vodka. Billy left the house rarely, though when he did it was always with his dad, and when Gwen had gone round for a cup of tea, he had barely uttered a word. “I think he’s been sleeping mostly, poor lad.”

Gwen said this aside to her granddaughter almost as a way to soften the fact that Billy had not spoken to her, as though she expected her to be angry. But how could she be? Ida herself barely wanted to speak to anyone after Cranstead Fields, and she hadn’t been the one nearly blown up. And after all, had she tried to speak to Billy? What could she say?

Hey Billy, we still haven’t chatted about your arrest for racially aggravated assault!

Hey Billy, remember that time you said I was perfect, then that you didn’t want me anymore while you pinned me to a wall?

Hey Billy, did your folks tell you that I called them a shit family?

Hey Billy, didn’t think the next time we’d see each other after our raging argument would be me dragging you out of a car filled with explosives!

Ida laughed a little at that thought and returned to her book. She’d picked it up in a second-hand bookshop not long ago, drawn to it by the annotations that adorned its pages. Ida was continually drawn to one such highlight near the beginning of the book;

‘The cataclysm has happened, we are among the ruins, we start to build up new little habitats, to have new little hopes. It is rather hard work: there is now no smooth road into the future: but we go round, or scramble over the obstacles. We've got to live, no matter how many skies have fallen.’

She took a sip of her wine and, out loud to the rain, said “We’ve got to live, no matter how many skies have fallen.”

KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK

Ida jolted and laughed properly this time. How typical of Sofia to forget something. She could see Faisal now, frantically checking the airport departure times and recalculating their trip. Springing from the sofa, she hurried to the door and swung it open, calling out as she did so. “What have you forg-”. The words died in her mouth. Stood in the dark doorway, head bowed, was Billy.

Droplets of rain clung to his sandy hair, which was shorter than the last time she’d seen him. His stubble was gone too, highlighting his sunken cheeks. He looked exhausted. The dark circles around his eyes only made them more fantastically blue, and God Ida wished he’d look at her. He took a few deep breaths and, speaking quietly to his feet, said “Saw Sofia and Faisal downstairs, and they, er, they let me in.” Then he did it. He looked right at her and something in Ida snapped. She flung herself at him, burying her face in his neck and wrapping her arms around his shoulders. Billy stumbled, letting out a little hmph as her body knocked into his. There was no hesitation in his hands as he brought them to her back and nestled is nose into her hair.

“I’ve missed you,” he said, breathing in her scent. She pulled back to look at him, a brilliant smile on her freckled face, and took his hand to lead him into the flat. Ida dropped it as she hurried into the kitchenette, and Billy shuffled awkwardly a little as he looked around the flat.

It had been a while since he was last here. Faisal’s birthday, maybe? He could see evidence of Sofia and Faisal. Sofia’s trinkets from her travels, all brightly coloured. Faisal’s stack of games and house plants. Still, Ida was unmistakably sewn into the fabric of their little home. Fairy lights were strung above the windows and old sofa, which was covered with blankets. Her childhood teddy, patchworked and worn, sat atop them next to a small selection of books and her grandad’s Cork County Football Team mug. Frameless photographs of her friends were stuck to the walls. Looking closer, Billy saw many of them together. Mucking about in a field, painted faces at a church fair, drinks in hand at a bar in Spain, chatting conspiratorially at a table in Gwen’s garden. There were three of Sofia and Faisal that Ida herself had taken. They were lined up together, and in each one Faisal was gazing lovingly at Sofia, who’s blonde hair was illuminated by the setting sun behind her. Billy’s stomach did a little flip, and he turned to the open door of the balcony. The rain was coming down harder now, and he watched from the shelter of the awning as people scurried into shops to avoid the summer downpour. The air was thick with humidity, and he wiped his newly cut hair from his brow, certain that his nerves were doing little to dissuade the heat. When Ida joined him on the balcony with a glass of wine and a beer for him, Billy chugged a few mouthfuls then held the bottle to his neck.

Ida sat on the small balcony bench, feet outstretched. Billy joined her, sitting awkwardly, formally, at the other end. Neither said a word. The relief each had felt at finally seeing one another had faded, their recent history worming its way to the forefront on their minds.

“Warren’s-”

“Gran said-”

They spoke at the same time. Ida gestured for Billy to continue, picking her glass of wine up from the table to take a sip.

“Warren’s going on trial. I had to go down to the station for an interview, hours it took, and they managed to catch him. Fucking bastard,” Billy muttered that last part bitterly, and Ida grew hot with anger. This Warren bloke was lucky that the police got to him before she did. “I’ve got to go and testify. Will you be coming?” He looked at her hopefully.

“To the trial? No, they have my statement from the day, no need for me to be there really.”

“Right.” Billy took another sip of his beer and began peeling off its paper wrapper. “They’ve dropped my charges, dunno if Lana told you?” Ida shook her head. She wasn’t sure she wanted to hear this, she was still so angry at him. Her Billy would never have done what the one before her had. “Just had to pay a fine for the cost of the window. Dad and I went to help them put it in, thought it was the least I could-”

Ida cut in sharply. “But Billy, that doesn’t-”

“I know it doesn’t excuse what I did.” Billy replied tersely. He huffed a sigh as if to calm himself and wiped his face. “It doesn’t excuse what I did, or what I thought. I know that. Everything with John, with Nut dying,” he trailed off before continuing. “I was just so sick of not fitting in anywhere. All my friends have outgrown me, my family were sick of me hanging around and never achieving anything. But then everything-” Billy was gesturing with his hands but his voice died away. Ida knew he was thinking about Cranstead. How his new friends had used him as a means to a terrifying, bitter end. Billy sighed and relaxed into the seat. His hand found the hem of Ida’s skirt and fiddle with it, running his finger up and down the seam absentmindedly. Occasionally, his thumb grazed the skin of her calves and she shivered, despite the heat that the action caused to prickle at her cheeks. Billy noticed her stir and, realising what he was doing, retracted his hands and took another swig of beer. He changed the subject hastily.

“Been spending more time with Dad.”

“Oh, that’s lovely. Really, Bill!” Ida’s voiced sounded falsely cheerful and she mentally scolded herself.

“Think he’s scared you might come after him again.” Billy laughed and Ida hung her head in her hands.

“Oh God,” her voice was muffled by her palms. “Oh my God.”

“Don’t be embarrassed!” Billy was still laughing. “Lana told me all about it. I’m sad I missed it!”

“You would have been there if you’d turned up to your own birthday!” They laughed together, and Ida watched as the skin around his eyes crinkled. She suddenly realised how long it had been since she had seen him laugh properly, and she smiled softly at him. He caught her gaze, lips quirking in the corners, then turned back to face the rainy city.

“Becky came by too,” he said matter-of-factly, as though it was just a passing comment.

“Oh right?” Ida didn’t need to tell Billy that she already knew, or that this news caused an almighty night of drinking.

Billy caught her aloofness and laughed again. “Don’t worry,” he nudged her legs. “She won’t be around again. Talked some bollocks about how she hadn’t been able to sleep since she’d heard. As if she was the one who…who was stuck-” He recovered himself quickly. “She wasn’t happy you were there, either.”

“I bet she wasn’t,” Ida said under her breath.

“I’m glad it was you.” Billy said suddenly, looking directly at her. Despite the darkness of the evening, his eyes were bright and Ida felt that if she looked at them too long, he’d be able to hear her hurried and confused thoughts. She looked away. “Thank you, Ida.” Nodding awkwardly, she took a large gulp of wine and winced at the bitter taste.

“You didn’t know, did you?” Billy shifted on the bench so that his body was facing Ida’s.

“Know what?”

“That the timer was a decoy,”

“Lana and Has said it was-”

“But you didn’t know, did you?” Billy cut across her. “Not for certain.” Ida stilled, and Billy watched as her usually rosy cheeks drained of colour and her eyes widen. He continued when she didn’t respond. “Seeing you there. I-I can’t stop thinking about it. Every time I close my eyes, it’s your face at the window. You looked so wild, like an animal caught in a cage. Knowing now that you didn’t know for certain-” His hands were shaking as he put down the beer bottle. “Christ, Ida! You could have died!”

“And you would have died.” Ida had found her voice. What was I meant to do, Billy? Sit there and watch you die? All scared and alone in that car!?”

Billy turned away from her. “I think, sometimes, it would have been better if I had.” Ida felt like she had been slapped. She stared at him, open-mouthed as he let his last sentence hang dreadfully in the air. “I brought this whole mess upon myself. And Lana. And you. Mum’s been inconsolable since, and seeing dad try to be better...He’s trying to be a better dad, but I feel such a burden to be a better son.” Fat tears were filling Billy’s eyes, and he pushed the palms of his hands to them roughly, trying to force them back in. He moved to the edge of the balcony and Ida followed. “What’s the point of me, Ida!? I tried to stop fucking everything up and leave you all alone, only to fuck it up even more! I’m just a worthless-”

“How dare you.” Ida whispered and Billy turned like a whip. This time, it was he who looked like they had been slapped. “HOW DARE YOU!” Ida was shouting at him now, her voice tearing from the effort of keeping back sobs. “I risked my life for you! Have you learnt nothing!?”

“Ida-”

“NO!” She thrust a finger aggressively into his chest. “Look at where this pitiful thinking got you last time! For fuck’s sake, Billy! I wish you could see yourself the way I do.” Billy scoffed, but Ida ignored him. “When your heart is high, God, you’re the best person to be around. You’re gentle and kind and light. It’s like staring at the sun. Everything about you is sunshine.” She laughed at how childish that sounded. “You don’t understand, do you? My life isn’t the same without you! These last few weeks have been agony.” Ida pressed a hand to her chest, where the dull ache that had been following her since their argument was reaching its painful peak. Billy watched with wide eyes as she continued to shout at him, tears streaming onto her cheeks as her voice shook. “Whether I had been by your side at Cranstead or not, I’d have died anyway! I can’t go on without you.”

Billy stared at her. She was gulping down air, her chest rising from the effort of shouting at him. When someone on the street below whistled up to them and shouted, “Lover’s quarrel?”, Ida gripped the edge of the balcony and screamed at them.

“FUCK OFF!” Billy took a step closer to her, but she wheeled around, a manic look in her eyes. “All I can see is you in that car. Your eyes…and I wake up in the night having dreamt that the bomb…that you-” She was rubbing her hands in panicked agitation, an unfocused look in her eyes as they darted everywhere but Billy’s face.

“Ida. Ida, I’m here.” Billy moved to block everything but himself from her vision, gripping her arms and holding her still.

“Billy?” Ida whispered, as though waking from a bad dream. Billy supposed, momentarily, that she had. Taken back to the same nightmare that he himself has been reliving these past agonising days. She curled her fists into the chest of his t-shirt, her breath slowing. Billy’s own caught in his throat and he had to fight to keep himself still. Her palms lay flat on his chest, and she looked up at him. There she was. Back with him. Ida’s breath was deep, and with every inhale she could smell what was unmistakably Billy. His cedarwood shower gel, jasmine laundry detergent, the faintest hint of fresh sweat and now, beer on his breath as it fanned across her cheek. She put her head to his chest and gripped him tighter, running her hands to his shoulders and back to his chest. She felt a deep hum rumble through his chest.

“Making sure I’m real?” He said, looking down at her with half-lidded awe. One of his arms wrapped tentatively around Ida’s waist, skirting the flesh beneath her top as he brought her body closer to his. The other brushed her wayward hair from her neck, letting his hand tangle at the back of her head.

Ida shuddered as he pulled her head back a little, the action causing her lips to part. She closed her eyes and whispered, “Please don’t joke, Billy.” His mouth was a feather’s width away from her lips.

“I’m real, Ida.” His eyes flashed momentarily to her parted mouth, and when Ida whispered his name against his lips all sound around him ceased but for the roaring of his heartbeat in his ears. Billy tightened his grip in her hair and Ida, finally, any fight or thought of resisting gone from her, gave herself over to him. Billy’s warm lips brushed against her own so delicately that she whimpered. Clutching at his t-shirt, she dragged him closer and wrapping her arms around his neck to hold his face to hers. Billy towered over her, his hand reaching her neck, one thumb ghosting over her cheek as he continued to kiss her. He pulled back, every so fleetingly, to look at her. Ida’s eyes were still closed, the smallest of furrows between her brow. Hers lips were pink and a little swollen, a sheen of moisture covering them from where he had kissed her. Billy ran his thumb over her plump bottom lip and dipped his head to kiss her once more, his tongue brushing gently against her bottom lip. He kissed her languidly, and she moaned when his tongue parted her lips. Fuck, he needed her. Billy walked her back against the wall of the flat, mouth never leaving Ida’s, as rain bounced off the balcony edge and pattered their skin with cold. Keeping his hand in her hair, he pulled her head back and left gentle, open-mouthed kisses against the column of Ida’s neck. He nipped at the skin with his teeth, and when she shuddered, he did it again. Unable to stop himself, he pressed a knee between her legs, the hand that had been holding her waist suddenly at her hip, pushing her into the wall and holding her in place. As Billy pressed his weight against Ida’s, she opened her eyes with a gasp as a memory invaded her thoughts.

“Did you ever stop to think, Ida, that I’m not shutting myself off from everyone? Just you!”

“Billy,” she croaked, placing her hands on his shoulders. He continued to kiss her. “Billy, please.”

She could see Billy towering over her, pinning her body against the wall of his flat. He had licked his lips and braced himself against the wall, leant towards her and pressed his weight against her torso. She could see him closing his eyes as he felt her beneath him. “Did you ever stop to think, Ida, that I’m not shutting myself off from everyone, just you?”

“Billy,” he looked up at her, his eyes wide and questioning. He watched as more tears came. “Don’t Billy. My heart can’t take it again.” Ida dipped beneath his arms and hurried back into the flat. Billy stood there, staring at the spot where Ida had been.

“Fuck!” he hissed, hitting the wall. “FUCK!” A few tears of his own fell this time, and he wiped them away furiously. Here it was again, that painful, humiliating voice at the back of his mind. You’ve fucked up. Again. He leant his head against the rough wall and listened to the rain. Focus on what’s around you. That’s what Lana told him to do when he got flashbacks of Cranstead Fields. Eyes shut, head against the wall, Billy listened to the rain, the laughter of night-time revellers on the street below. He stuck his arm over the balcony and felt the rain against his hand. He heard Ida slam her bedroom door, and his heart contracted painfully. Sometimes, Billy felt like he could read Ida’s mind and sometimes, it scared him. Like now. He knew that she had been taken back to their argument in his flat. As he pressed his body against hers, he had remembered it too. The way she had watched him lick his lips, and how she had cried when he told her he didn’t want her anymore.

You’ve fucked up. Again.

No. Billy remembered why he came here. Remembered how desperately he wanted to see her, so desperate that his body had brought him here before his mind had caught up. Billy needed Ida, and he needed her to know.

Ida stood with her back against her bedroom door, one hand at her heart, the other just below her stomach. On the opposite wall was a photo of her and Billy, at the beach on his birthday last year, and she stared at it. Her hand moved to her mouth, and she shut her eyes. She could still feel the ghost of Billy’s lips there. In the mirror, she caught site of a little red mark on her neck, and heat blossomed shamefully between her legs.

Fuck.

She was standing at a precipice, leaning forward ever so deliciously. Behind her was the Collected History of Billy and Ida, volumes and volumes of memory, all compiled to make the woman she was in this very moment; heartbroken, terrified, excited. Ahead, who knew? Ida wanted to lean over, to peak at was waiting. But that’s not how it works. Jump thrillingly into the unknown or turn back to the familiar. Could she and Billy go back to the way they were before? After all that had happened, all that Ida wanted to happen…

Her phone vibrated in her pocket. A message from Sofia.

Just arrived at the airport, all on time. Will message when we land. How are you feeling honey? xxx

Ida hastily texted back, a flush on her cheeks.

Horny and confused

Three little dots appeared immediately to signify that Sofia was writing.

Erm, what? xxx

As Ida’s hands hovered over the screen, she heard the balcony door shut and Billy making his way into the kitchenette. The taps turned on, and there was the clutter of glasses. A fork of lightning illuminated her bedroom, and Ida made her way to the window. Rain cascaded down the panes, London only just visible. A sliver of light from the hall cut the bedroom in two. She looked over her shoulder. Billy stood there, leaning against the doorframe and silhouetted by the light, watching her once again.

“Ida-”

“Everything’s changed.” She said simply. Another fork of lightning split the sky, and Ida was reminded of the book laying open on the sofa. “’We’ve got to live, no matter how many skies have fallen.’”

“Pardon?” Billy crept into the room to stand at her side.

“It’s from Lady Chatterley’s Lover,” she replied, eyes still focused on the night beyond.

A small laugh escaped Billy; of course Ida had a quote for everything. He looked at her looking at the sky and said lowly, “Say it again.”

She looked at him looking at her. “’We’ve got to live, no matter how many skies have fallen.’” Another spark of lightning. His eyes were electric. Billy stared at her, unblinking, as though she would disappear if he did. Above the neck of his t-shirt, Ida saw his pulse quicken. God, how she wanted to run her tongue over the freckled skin there. Fuck. This was it. The jump.

“I- I-” She huffed at the disappearance of her confidence. Billy leant forward, his brow questioning, eyes hopeful, plush lips parted. Ida looked at them and in a breathless whisper said, “I wish we could go back to how we were before.”

“I don’t,”

“What?” Ida’s heart froze. “Why?”

Billy’s body relaxed. Everything he’d been through, everything they’d been through together, was leading to this. A great weight lifted from his chest and, looking at her with bright eyes, he said with a simple smile, “Because I love you, Ida.” He watched her lips part, and my God even though he loved it when she talked back, he continued before she could. “I can’t go back to how we were before, looking for some half-hearted attempt at love with someone who isn’t you. Being so near to you yet knowing you aren’t mine is torture. I can’t say when I started loving you, Ida, all I know is it’s easy.” Ida had Billy’s heart in her hands, and he paused, knowing his next sentence would change everything. “If…if…if you don’t want me, say the word and I’ll go, but I had to tell you. Loving you is what I’m best at.”

Ida’s face was unreadable. Just for a moment. Then, quite unexpectedly, she laughed, advancing on him at lightning speed. The last thing Billy Washington remembered of his old life was the sound of Ida’s rasped “Oh, Billy,” before her lips came crashing to his.

Billy’s disbelief didn’t last long. No sooner had her lips met his was he grabbing the plump flesh of her hips and forcing her backwards. She hit the wall with a thump and Billy’s body ground into hers. He grabbed her jaw and pushed her face away so that he might cover her neck with kisses. He saw the mark he had left on her not ten minutes before and licked languidly over the skin, causing Ida to mewl in pleasure. His lips skirted over the flesh of her exposed collarbones, between the clothed valley of her breasts and he sank to his knees. Ida’s hand instantly found his flaxen hair and he looked up at her, a giddy smile on his boyish face. She giggled and caressed his cheeks as, ever so delicately, so tantalising slowly, he lifted the hem of her top to place feather-light kisses on her stomach. Every touch, every moment that Billy spent worshipping her body only added to the heat rising in her chest and pooling at the apex of her thighs. She needed more of him, and reached down to bring her top over her head. Billy groaned as he looked up to see the curve of her breasts, the movement of her soft, pink nipples as her breath shuddered. Ida’s hips rolled involuntarily at the sound of him, and Billy grinned. That damn smile, Ida thought.

He continued to kiss her naked torso as one hand made its firm way up her thigh. Ida whimpered. “Please, Billy.” Nervously, Billy undid the tie of her skirt and let it fall to the floor.

“Fuck.” He could smell her. See her, the wetness of her underwear displaying her wanton need for him. Once more grabbing the soft flesh of her hips, he pressed his face to her arousal and breathed in her scent. Ida sobbed and grabbed his hair.

“Please,”

He wrenched down her underwear and there she was, completely exposed to him. She giggled again, though Billy knew her well enough to hear the nerves they hid. “You’re so beautiful, Ida,” he whispered, looking up at her. How many times had he imagined her like this? Here she was, wild haired and panting, her body illuminated by the city light, shadows of rain from the window caressing every curve of her. Her dark eyes were bright, teeth tucked between her bottom lip, simultaneously smiling while trying not to moan in pleasure. Billy watched her breasts rise with her breathing, and he reached up to run his hand over the sensitive flesh there. The moan was rent from her lips and her hips rose to meet his face. Billy made use of her body’s reaction and hooked his arm under her thigh. Ida gasped when she realised what he was doing. Laying her leg over his shoulder, Billy pushed her further up the wall as he brought his face closer to the thatch of curls above her centre.

He paused just a moment, waiting for her to stop him. When she didn’t, Billy brought his other hand to part her wetness and ran his tongue lazily over her pink centre. Ida cried out, and sank slightly onto him, desperate for more. Billy’s heart swelled with pride and he repeated the action, marvelling in the sounds Ida made above him.

“You taste incredible.” He rasped, continuing to lap at her pussy. Carefully, nervously, she ground herself against him, his nose rubbing against her sensitive bundle of nerves. She laughed, remembering all the sinful times she had thought about his nose.

“What?” Billy laughed too, in between kisses to her core.

“It’s good,” she whispered. “You’re so good.” Billy stood and brought his forehead to hers.

“I love you,”

“Billy,” she kissed him with urgency, tasting herself on his lips. She grabbed his hips and brought him closer to her. Gripping his shoulders, she rolled her hips against his and the hard fabric of his jeans. The bulge beneath them against her clit ignited a desperate need within her. Her mouth broke away from his and her hands frantically made work of his belt. Billy could barely contain himself. He watch as she needily undressed him, and he brought his shirt over his body as she undid the button of his jeans. Distracted by his naked torso, she pressed her bare chest against his and he moaned. Her hands raked over the plains of his chest. The lean muscle, the smattering on hair. Her nails dug into his shoulders and their tongues found each other once again, desperate to taste once another.

“I need you, Billy,” Ida moaned into his mouth. God he’d do anything for her. Taking her hands in his, he spun her around and pushed her lightly on to the bed. He could have sworn he felt his cock twitch as he watched her body bounce on the mattress. He unzipped his jeans and, hooking his fingers in the band of his boxers, slowly removed them, never taking his eyes off Ida.

Her mouth watered. Billy’s cock sprang free from his trousers, and she marvelled at the glisten of precum that adorned its tip. The way it curved upwards, the tautness of his balls, the size of him. She ached to feel him inside her. Billy smirked as she gawped at him. He teasingly ran a hand up and down his length.

“Stop-” she groaned. Billy did so once more before he knelt to kiss her legs.

“You look like that painting, the one we saw in Paris,” he whispered seductively before licking a stripe up her centre.

“God, Billy,” she half laughed, half moaned. They had gone to Paris for her 21st birthday. At the Musee d’Orsay, Billy had blushed furiously when he found Ida gazing at a painting of a woman’s naked torso. He had taken her hand and led her away, but not before looking back over his shoulder.

He crawled up the length of her body. Another pulse of arousal throbbed between Ida’s legs as he did so. The roll of his shoulders and his darkened gaze; she felt like prey. Billy brought a hand to cup her breast, the other reaching harshly between her thighs.

“Fuck!” she cried as Billy ran his long fingers between her wet folds. The sound of her sex was obscene, and Billy fought every urge to sheath himself fully in that heavenly spot between her legs. Slowly, he dipped two fingers inside her, and Ida arched off the bed. Billy caught her nipple between his lips and sucked lightly, ran a tongue over the sensitive flesh, then nipped at it with his teeth. Her pussy clenched around his fingers and he swore. She drove him crazy. Between the pulse of her walls, the soft flesh of her breast and the nipple he tugged between his lips, he could barely focus. He pulled his fingers out of her suddenly and she whimpered. Licking his fingers, he closed his eyes at the taste of her. Ida’s hands wound their way into his hair and tugged him closer. She kissed him. Slowly, deeply, and tasted herself on his tongue. He was intoxicating. Warmth burst in Ida’s chest. No matter how many times she had imagined him when only her hand would do, nothing could compare to this.

Using her hip, and the hand that had found his shoulder, she pushed him lightly so that he fell back onto the mattress. She leant down as though to kiss him, but as he raised his head she moved away. Billy’s frustrated huff died away when Ida bit the pulse point of his neck, when she kissed her way down his chest, hair tickling his abdomen as her fingers brushed over his nipples.

“Oh my God, Ida.” She edged closer and closer to his cock, and when she ran her wet lips over him, he saw stars. Nothing could have prepared Billy for the warmth of Ida’s mouth on him. The swirl of her tongue around the tip of his swollen length, or the way she wrapped her hand around its base as she took him in her mouth. Torturously she worked her mouth around him, sucking as she took him fully. He tasted delicious, but the sounds he made were greater. Wetness gathered on Ida’s thighs as she listened to him beg and moan her name incoherently. When Billy looked down, he saw Ida’s lust-filled eyes staring back at him, and she didn’t miss the way the muscles of his abdomen flexed. Releasing his cock and licking away the precum coating her mouth, Ida straddled his small waist and looked at him with awe. The tight scrunch of his brows, the sheen of sweat that decorated them. The curve of his beautiful lips and the way his Adam’s apple bobbed when she rolled her sex over his achingly hard length. She braced herself with hands splayed across his chest and he gripped her waist with bruising intensity.

“Ida,” he whined as she rubbed her slick across him. Her head fell back when she repeated the action. “Ida!” He was louder that time. Needier. Leaning down to place a tender kiss on his plump lips, idea took him in her hand. With foreheads together, Billy’s hand guiding her hips, Ida sank slowly onto Billy’s length. They moaned in unison, and a few tears of pleasure pricked at Ida’s eyes.

Finally.

She looked down at Billy, her Billy, who smiled, love-drunk, up at her. He raised himself onto his elbows, one arm wrapping around her waist tightly to hold her secure. Ida whimpered as he shifted them to the edge of the bed, the movement causing him to thrust into her.

“Fuck,” Billy whispered against her chest. Feet planted firmly on the floor, his head was just below hers now. His other hand carded through her hair and she hummed with pleasure. Breath ghosting her neck, Billy placed more sloppy kisses to the skin there. Ida shivered and began rolling her hips. “Fuck.”

The rain continued to hammer on the windows of Ida’s bedroom, now joined by the sounds of their lovemaking. Breathless moans, whimpers of pleasure and the sound of skin on skin as Billy thrust into Ida’s tight heat, every sinew and fibre of him alive and alert to her body. Steadily, the pace at which he drove into her increased, his cock hitting the sweet spot inside her perfectly. He watched as she continued to ride him, transfixed by the bounce of her breasts and the way her mouth fell open.

“God, Billy,” Ida was crying now, the pleasure she felt as he fucked her overwhelming. “Don’t stop.” With a growl that almost sent her over the edge, Billy flipped her back onto the mattress and wrapped her legs around his waist. Harshly he rutted into her, one hand holding her hip in place as the other gripped her throat lightly. Her eyes fluttered shut.

“Look at me,” he pleaded, and with great effort she did so. Hair was sticking to his forehead and his jaw clenched as he pounded into her. His pleasure was so beautiful. Ida kissed his neck as he continued grinding his hips into hers. A hand suddenly flew between their entwined bodies as Billy sought to tease her clit. The pressure to her bundle as he continued his frantic thrusting was blinding, and Ida felt her orgasm build in her stomach.

“Billy, don’t stop!” She cried out, hand flying to his thigh and encouraging his thrusts. Billy’s hips snapped faster into her and the coil snapped. A guttural cry ripped from Ida’s throat as the world turned to white noise, feeling nothing but the shockwaves of her orgasm pulsing through her body. Billy watched as her body tightened beneath him, a flush covering her chest as her pussy fluttered around his cock. It was mere moments before he too came undone, crying her name as he came within her.

Neither of them knew how long they stayed there, bodies bound together as they rode out the high of their orgasms. Billy’s arms gave out on him, and he collapsed on top of Ida. She held him there awhile, feeling the shudder of his body as her legs did the same. When he began gently kissing the glistening skin of her chest, she lifted his head to look at her. Behind the fucked-out, peaceful glimmer in his eyes, she could still see his nervousness. The fear of rejection ever present.

“I love you, Billy. So much.”

Tears formed in his eyes. “Fuck.” Billy buried his face in her chest.

“I love you,” she kissed him. “I love you,” she kissed him again. Between kisses and whispered dedications, she held her Billy, willing him to feel how much her life depended on him. “Stay with me tonight. Please?” He rose to place a kiss to her lips, and nuzzled into her neck, breathing deeply.

“I’m not going anywhere.”

Billy woke to a faint stream of sun. Rain clouds still blanketed the sky, but the cacophonous downpour had faded. All that could be heard were the faint breaths of the woman beside him. Hair spread across the pillow in every which way, body relaxed in sleepy bliss. Ida. He reached out to stroke the curve of her exposed tummy, and she hummed.

Everything had changed.

Note: The painting referenced is L’Origine du Monde by Courbet. First ever smut so be kind! As I said at the beginning, I’ve decided to do two more chapters rather than one. See you for the next, thank you for all the kind words and support 😊

Tags: @jessssica1234 @anditsmywholeheart @bookwyrmsblog @phantomontheinternet @aemonds-wifey @slytherincursebreaker @valerie977 @i-killed-ramsey @greenowlfactif @yentroucnagol @schniiipsel @multiple-fandoms-girl @just-emmaaaa @tosiaf

#ewan mitchell #billy washington x oc #billy washington #trigger point series #ewan mitchell x reader #aemond x reader

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starkandthewaynes · 4 months

Text

Bengal & Lynx

Ch. 1

"Kyo, I think this final is gonna drive me insane." Lennox says to her cat, who looked at them and then just bit their laptop. "I know, you don't like it either." Lennox says as they get their phone out for a picture. They quickly took to Insta, but just shook their head.

Jason was right only 3 more days until Kyo and them were on a plane to Gotham City, New Jersey. They couldn't wait. Last time they had seen Jay, he hadn't died. When he did die, Bruce hadn't known what to do with Lennox so he shipped them off to boarding school in London, England. Yeah, that hadn't been a fun time for anyone. Dick had reached out several times, but it had turned into more of an annoyance than a help.

And when Jay did return to the land of the living, and re-joined the family, Lennox had also changed. They had always been able to see shades and ghosts, but when they moved to London, it had gotten worse, and this side of the pond the best person they could call was John Constantine. That had been a fun phone call.

"No way kid, I am not teaching you magic, I didn't even teach your brother, I ain't teaching you." John had said on the phone, but then they'd replied with; "Uncle Johnny, please, I keep seeing shit in the teacher's lounges. I need help." Who knew Johnathon Constantine, Hellblazer, Laughing Magician, Conman had a weak spot for kids who had supernatural gifts.

Lennox shook their head, thinking about the past was not going to help them study for their last final, or help them pack for summer. Luckily they didn't have to pack up the whole flat, Bruce had bought it for them. Nah, they were just heading to Gotham for the summer, before they came back for their senior year of college. Sure they were graduating early, but they had a plan for after school. They we're gonna help run the Bengel & Lynx foundation, a subject of the Martha Wayne Foundation that helped impoverished areas get help for local theatres and libraries. It's why they were triple majoring in Theatre, English, and business, while also minoring in art and history. Or They will once they pass these finals then two more semesters.

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Lennox was checking everything to make sure they had everything. Kyo was already in his little bag ready for the flight. He was so cute and ready. They took a picture. They couldn't help it, their Instagram page was practically dedicated to Kyo, at this point they really should just make it his page, but then all the press would get uppity. The only bad thing about having Wayne attached to Pierce was the press.

Lennox laughed. They had met Steph when she, Duke, and Cas had come over to London with Tim on a business trip. Or at least that was the official public story. The real reason was Spoiler, Orphan, and Signal had a joint case. It was still a fun trip where Lennox had gotten to meet their older sister and younger brother and pseudo sister.

Lennox took a cab to the airport, just because their family had money doesn't mean they needed to use the private jet. As soon as they were through security and on the plane, they could finally relax. They pulled out an old warn copy of Treasure Island, a comfort story.

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Lennox liked Jay's, duke's and Tim's tweets as they picked up their bags, and looked around for Jason. They heard a loud engine and saw a pretty badass bike show up. They driver skided into park, got off and held up a sign. Lennox couldn't help but cackle as they read it. In Jason's chicken scratch blown up were the word's "Welcome Home, Lynx!" They loved and missed their twin so much. They couldn't help it when they ran into his arms. "Bengal!" They shrieked as hepicked them up, careful of Kyo, and spun them around. "I missed you so much, Lynx." He whispers as the two just stand in one another's presence. "By the way, do you know how to ride a bike?" Jay asks, grabbing their bags. They chuckle. "Yeah, Bengal, I know how to ride a bike; Dickie made sure of it." So did working with Cinstantine, made for quick getaways. Lennox adds in their head. "Right." He says, handing them a spare helmet.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------"You totally forgot Bruce had all of us on twitter, didn't you?" Lennox asks, Jay, Dick and them are in the family room. "I tried getting him to stop, but he was being Jason." Dick whines, as three of the oldest Waynes sigh. "How long you think we got?" Lennox asks, as Dick looks at his watch. "Well, Bruce tweeted that 30 seconds ago, so I think we got probably-" "Twins! Dick! Study now!" "Now, we got until now." Dick sighs, getting up. On the way there they passed by the others, who were snickering. They weren't in trouble.

"You three wanna tell me something?" Bruce asks, as the three kids rock back and forth on their toes. "I'm graduating next winter?" Lennox tries, as the three men stare at Lennox. "You have been working hard huh?" Jay asks as they shrug. "Got myself a plan Bengal, and Tim's been helping me get a jump start." Lennox says, as Bruce nods. "I wanna hear when we're done here, Lynx." Jay says as Lennox nods. "

Yes, well, firstly I wanna know how old you all were." Bruce says as Lennox smiles. "Well, Bengal and I weren't here that's for sure." Lennox says as Jay turns wide eyed. "What are you doing?" He hisses as Lennox just smiles. "What?" Bruce asks, as Lennox nods. "Yeah, it's what happens when you grow up in the Alley, cigs are just apart of the ambiance. So yeah, Jay bought us our first pack three days before you picked us up, we we're celebrating that we had gotten ourselves a job." Lennox says as Bruce stiffens up, just like Lennox knew he would. Bruce doesn't like to be reminded of how hard some of his kids have had it. They walk out of the study, and all their siblings are staring. "Check Twitter." Is all Dick says

Yes this is another new batfam smau I need to spice things up sometimes leave everyone on their toes (PS if you saw this earlier no you didn't)

Masterlist

#batfam #jason todd #tim drake #dick grayson #damian wayne #bruce wayne #steph brown #cassandra cain #duke thomas #batfam social media #my ocs #Lennox Pierce #barbara gordon

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trulybetty · 1 year

Text

Welcome to New York | (Dieter Bravo x OFC)

Pairing: Dieter Bravo x OFC Warnings: alcohol, smoking & zero angst, promise! Summary: Bryony attends a housewarming party in New York City, where surrounded by the laughter and energy of the party, she encounters Dieter Bravo for the first time. Sparks fly hinting at an unexpected connection that could forever change their lives. AO3: Linked

A/N: in passing with @gnpwdrnwhiskey last week I mentioned that I didn't think I knew how to write without adding angst, so this was my challenge to myself to try and do so! Also to give Bryony and Dieter a little reprieve from the drama! Still not 100% on this piece, throwing it at the wall and seeing if it sticks, so feedback, as always, is welcomed! Also, if it's not apparent, the poster in the graphic is not a visual of Bryony.

Welcome to New York.

2017

The night air was warm, winter was turning to spring and the city of New York was buzzing. It was Bryony's first time in the city, she had travelled to other cities in the US before. But hadn't really understood the call of New York. The idea of a city that never slept made her feel exhausted and wasn't that just London? A city she was already too familiar with. However, that was all until she had touched down earlier that day and taken a cab from JFK to her hotel across from Central Park.

The cab ride from the airport had been an experience in itself. As she zipped through the bustling streets, past towering skyscrapers and neon-lit billboards, she couldn't help but be swept up in the city's vibrancy. Each sight was a stark contrast to the tranquillity of her native South Wales and the sophisticated charms of London.

Gina and Lloyd's brownstone, nestled in the heart of Brooklyn, was Bryony's destination. Arriving just as the sun began to dip below the city skyline, casting long shadows and bathing everything in a soft, golden light, she felt a twinge of anticipation coursing through her veins.

Bryony, having watched enough Sex and The City, knew all too well that these brownstones didn't come cheap. Despite being thirty-two and having almost a decade's worth of experience in the TV and film production industry, the magnitude of the property's value was somewhat intimidating. She couldn't shake off the feeling of being somewhat out of her depth.

Bryony had grown up in Cardiff, in a close-knit community where her grandmother and both her aunts lived just down the street. When her career meant a move to London, she found a roommate in her brother. Rhys, retired from professional rugby, had a few international tours with Wales and had a good run with a professional club. Both of which had ended with a crushed disc and falling back on his law degree that he swore he'd never need. That arrangement had ended when they could no longer stand the sight of each other, and Bryony subsequently moved to a modest flat in Islington.

She paused at the doorstep at the top of the stairs, adjusting her dress, a nervous habit, she tried to quell the butterflies fluttering in her stomach. She inhaled deeply, the scent of the city, a blend of fresh flowers, car exhausts, and tantalizing wafts from a nearby pizzeria, filling her lungs.

Arriving in New York also marked a pivotal chapter in Bryony's career. She was currently basking in the glow of being the lead producer of the BBC overnight sensation, 'Dark Waters'. The engrossing drama had captivated the nation for six tension-filled weeks, catapulting Bryony's name when her relentless efforts to launch the show were finally acknowledged. The waves of her success were still riding high, the demand for her talent leverage that had carried her across the Atlantic.

Taking one last moment to gather herself, she reached out and pressed the doorbell.

As the heavy oak door swung open, Bryony was embraced by not only the welcoming chorus of laughter and lively conversation that escaped the townhouse, but the arms of Gina, who upon seeing Bryony nearly took her off of her feet despite her petite stature. The diminutive blonde held her at arm's length, her chic bob bouncing with the infectious energy that matched her smile.

Gina had a good ten years of experience in the industry when she'd first taken Bryony under her wing in her first years. Gina had been a guiding light then, her role as a producer instrumental in shaping Bryony's growing career. Over the years they continued to work on various projects together, and as they did, their friendship grew.

"You made it!" Gina exclaimed in excitement.

Bryony smiled "Wouldn't have missed it!" she replied. "Congratulations on the new home! It’s beautiful!"

Bryony followed Gina into the awe-inspiring brownstone, where New York charm met Gina's exquisite taste in decor. The walls were already adorned with photographs and personal mementoes, reflecting their new home's warm character.

Basking in the glow of the lively gathering, Gina turned to Bryony, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Thank you, love. I can't tell you how thrilled I am to have you here." She squeezed Bryony's arm in excitement, "And brace yourself - I've invited someone who I'm convinced will be your one true love!"

Bryony's brow arched in a mix of curiosity and playful exasperation. "Wow, dinner and my future husband? You do know how to throw a party Gin!" She was all too familiar with Gina's relentless penchant for playing cupid, this wasn't the first time.

"Lay off the matchmaking, Gina," came a voice from behind them, rich with amusement. They both turned to find Lloyd, his face split into a wide grin, cradling a glass tumbler in his hand. "I'm pretty sure Bryony has had her fill of your romantic schemings for a lifetime by now." He extended the tumbler in his hand to Bryony, his smile infectious. "A warm welcome to our abode, Bryony. Gin and tonic, if my memory serves me right?"

"Right as always, Lloyd," Bryony responded as she accepted the glass.

Lloyd exuded an aura of sophistication that was almost tangible. He was the kind of man who could spout lines of profound prose at the drop of a hat, and then be found at the heart of good gossip. His charm was effortless, much like the characters he brought to life on stage, making him a beloved figure within the New York theatre circles.

Gina crossed her arms, feigning a pout. "I'll have you both know that I'm an exceptional matchmaker."

Bryony laughed, the sound echoing lightly in the lively atmosphere. She took a refreshing sip of her drink, the cool tang of the gin and tonic a welcome contrast to the warm room. "The jury is still out on that one Gina."

Gina shot Bryony a grin, her eyes twinkling. "Well, don't be surprised if someone manages to catch your attention tonight."

With a playful roll of her eyes, Bryony retorted, "We'll just have to wait and see, won't we?"

---

As the night went on, Bryony navigated the party, pushing herself out of her comfort zone to network and engage in conversations with various attendees. Excusing herself from another discussion about the nuances of British television, she headed off in search of another drink.

Surprisingly the kitchen was empty, the sleek expanse of the island held an array of dishes wrapped in anticipation of dinner. Bryony’s stomach grumbled reminding her that she’d eaten no more than the limp sandwich that had been served prior to her plane's arrival to JFK. Eyeing a box of crackers, she opened the box, popping one into her mouth as she turned her attention to making herself a drink. As the ice cubes clinked in the glass, Bryony savoured a brief pause from the energetic ambience of the party.

Lost in her thoughts, she was startled when a voice broke the silence. "Looks like we both found the one quiet spot in this place," the voice said.

Bryony jumped, startled by the sudden sound of another person in the kitchen. The box of crackers nearly slipped out of her hands as she spun around, her gaze meeting that of a face she certainly didn't recognize. He was tall, with dark brown eyes that twinkled with amusement at her surprise, and an easy smile that complimented his features. He stood casually against the kitchen island as if he belonged there.

Bryony felt her cheeks flush as she stammered out a response. “Jesus, you scared the shit out of me.”

He responded with a deep, hearty chuckle, "Apologies. Wasn't my intention to startle you. I'm in search of a refill myself."

Bryony eyed his half-drained glass of bourbon and raised an eyebrow. Unfazed, he winked at her and polished off the remaining liquor. "As I said, in dire need of a refill. Call me Dieter. Dieter Bravo."

Bryony suppressed a smirk, finding it hard to believe that his name could be real.

"Bryony," she countered back, mimicking his theatrical name presentation, "Bryony Morgan."

"Your accent gives you away, Bryony," Dieter said in a low voice as he leaned around her to access the cabinet to her left. His shoulder grazed hers, sending sparks through her. He was close enough that his hips brushed against hers as he reached for the stash of premium spirits. "Seems like you're a long way from home, no?" A hint of a flirtatious smile tugged at the corner of his lips, pulling something within Bryony along with it.

"I suppose I am," Bryony said and gave him the cliff notes of her background. Tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear as she watched him select a bottle. "New York though is quite a bit different from London."

He chuckled, popping the cork off a bottle of vintage bourbon before taking a sniff. "That it is, Bryony. I've spent some time in London myself. Fine city, but it doesn't quite have the... chaos of New York, you know?"

Her soft laughter filled the warm, bustling atmosphere of the housewarming party. "I'll give you that. The chaos is definitely unique here."

Their eyes met as he poured the liquor, the amber liquid catching the light as it filled his glass. He held her gaze, a slow smile spreading across his face. There was something enticing about him, every bit of him demanded her attention.

"So, Bryony Morgan," he started, setting down the bottle and turning to face her. He leaned back against the counter, crossing his arms over his chest. "What brings you to Gina and Lloyd's party tonight?"

"Friends with Gina, we've worked on a few projects back in the UK over the years," Bryony replied, tracing the rim of her glass with a fingertip. “And of course, by proxy, that's how I know Lloyd.”

"Ah, working with Gina, that must be quite the adventure," Dieter chuckled, taking a sip of his bourbon. "She is one of the best in the business."

“How about you?” Bryony reached into the box of crackers, popping another into her mouth before offering the box to Dieter, “How do you know Lloyd and Gina?”

Dieter grinned, accepting a cracker from the box. "Lloyd and I go way back. He's quite the taskmaster when it comes to his stage productions. I'm currently starring in Lloyd's latest production. It's... interesting, to say the least. He's got a knack for the dramatic."

Bryony chuckled, her gaze meeting Dieters. "That he does. I've seen a few of his works. Quite compelling. And you? Do you enjoy the drama?"

"Depends on the day," Dieter answered with a shrug, a wry smile playing on his lips. "It can be... exhilarating. And other times, it's just exhausting."

Bryony found herself drawn in by his candour, the easy way he spoke about his work. There was a vibrancy that was hard to ignore.

He looked at her then, his gaze inquisitive. "So, what about you, Bryony? What brings you to the chaotic city of New York from the refined streets of London?"

“Work,” she replied simply as she took a sip of her drink, “there's the promise of work out in LA, so I'm meeting with some studios this week for interviews and meetings. I'm also hoping I get a chance to take a look around New York, I've never been here before.”

Dieter clutched at his chest dramatically, “Never been to New York before? How is that even possible?”

"I guess I never saw the appeal," Bryony replied, the crinkle at the corner of her eyes betraying her amusement.

“Well, how are your first impressions?"

"Honestly," she began, a light chuckle escaping her as she glanced down at her watch. "I’ve been here less than twenty-four hours, and most of that time was spent in a taxi or adjusting to my hotel room." She met his gaze again, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

He smirked, taking a thoughtful sip of his bourbon. "Well, the beauty of New York can't be appreciated in the back of a taxi or from a hotel room window," he responded, setting his glass down on the counter. "There's a certain life to it, a rhythm that you have to immerse yourself in to really understand."

“Anything, in particular, you recommend I see first?” Bryony asked, emboldened by the gin she'd already consumed on top of the jetlag.

"New York?" Dieter arched an eyebrow, a smirk playing on his lips as he swirled the amber liquid in his glass. "The city has endless possibilities. A little exploration could be just what you need."

Bryony lifted her glass to her lips in the hope to hide the blush she felt creeping up her cheeks. She couldn't deny the appealing prospect of Dieter Bravo as her personal city guide. "That so?" she replied, her tone playfully challenging. "Sounds almost like an invitation."

He grinned, his eyes twinkling in a way that promised fun and adventure. "Consider it an opportunity, Bryony. An opportunity to see the city through the eyes of a man who's lived and loved here."

"Aren't you a busy man? You must have a lot going on," she retorted, trying to keep the conversation light.

A dismissive shrug accompanied his smug grin. "Oh, there's always room for one more adventure," he replied, casting her a playful wink over the top of his bourbon.

Bryony's unexpected laughter surprised them both. "Adventure, you say? Is that how you see me – a damsel in need of a thrilling rescue?"

"Not exactly," he said, the flirtatious veneer fading for a moment, replaced by something more genuine. "I think you're someone who's about to embark on an exciting new chapter, and I'd like to be part of that story, even if it's just for a brief moment."

Dieter's words echoed between them, the background chatter of the party fading into a muffled hum. There was an honest charm about Dieter, an attraction that went far beyond his clean-cut Hollywood looks. She studied him thoughtfully, his proposition appearing less a daunting task and more a promising adventure in the grandiosity of New York City.

A subtle rush of excitement coursed through her veins, her cheeks blooming with a soft blush. Generally, the thought of navigating a social situation like this with a stranger would have her mind plotting potential escape plans. Yet, with Dieter, she felt inexplicably at ease, wrapped in the warmth of his charismatic pull.

Taking a deep breath, she locked eyes with him and, with a spark of anticipation, accepted his offer, “I think I'd enjoy that.”

---

As the dinner call was announced, Bryony reluctantly extricated herself from the comfort of the kitchen, following in Dieter's wake. He was soon swallowed up by the crowd, enticed away by a familiar voice. Dieter cast her a playful wink before weaving his way through the sea of people, his name echoed around him.

Much to Bryony's frustration, Dieter sat further down the table. However, he could be heard over the thrum of conversations. Throughout the course of dinner, her attention kept gravitating towards him. The way he held court, the way he drew people in, it was undeniably captivating.

"Unparalleled, really," he expressed fervently, his hands dancing in the air to emphasise his words. "The enchanting realities we conjure up on stage are truly astounding." He passionately shared captivating anecdotes and viewpoints, mesmerizing his captivated audience with his fervent words and expressive gestures

His laughter, enchanting and infectious, would fade into a knowing smile whenever their eyes met. Yet, every time they found a chance to navigate through the crowd towards one another, the currents of the party would sweep them away. Another admiring compliment here, a spirited debate there.

As the evening wore on, it felt as though the number of guests had multiplied. Bryony found herself questioning the architectural integrity of the brownstone, surprised that it could hold such a vast variety of party-goers. Gina and Lloyd, the soiree's hosts, had long since disappeared into the vibrant mass of their guests, leaving her adrift amidst the waves of well-wishers and hangers-on.

Eventually, needing a breather from the crowd, and the repetition of hearing people try and imitate her accent, Bryony sought refuge in the cool New York night of Gina and Lloyd's garden. The slight chill was a soothing contrast to the stifling warmth of the party, and she welcomed it, wrapping her arms around herself. Eyes closed, head tilted up towards the sky, she took a deep breath. The nagging pangs of jetlag reminded her it had been almost a full day since she'd left Gatwick, yet she tried to put that aside.

Her moment of peace was broken by a gentle voice, rich with intrigue, "Finally, didn't think I'd get to see you again this evening."

The sound of footsteps echoing against the flagstone pavement announced Dieter's approach. In his hands, he balanced two filled-to-the-brim champagne glasses and a box of cigarettes. Wordlessly, he offered her one of the drinks, taking up a casual stance against the railing next to her. His dark eyes, sparkling under the dimly lit sky, darted her way, a playful smile tugging at his lips.

She returned his smile as she accepted the champagne. The crisp, cool bubbles of the drink served to heighten the pleasant chill of the evening.

As Dieter offered her the cigarette box, Bryony shook her head, "No thanks."

Unfazed, Dieter tilted the box toward himself, raising an eyebrow in silent query. Bryony gestured for him to go ahead. He then smoothly pulled out a cigarette, placing it between his lips with a lazy finesse that was impossible to ignore.

Captivated, Bryony watched as the dimly lit tip of his cigarette cast a warm glow onto his chiselled features. Dieter took a long, thoughtful drag, his posture subtly shifting to ensure the smoke veered away from her. Despite her personal aversion to the habit, she couldn't deny the allure the habit added to him.

When he finally released a slow stream of smoke into the air, he turned back to her with a mischievous grin, his eyes twinkling in the soft light. The silent intensity of his gaze ignited a familiar energy between them, a thrilling undercurrent that had been palpably present since their paths had crossed earlier in the evening.

“Managed to escape, then?” His voice was quiet, meant only for her, a stark contrast to the vibrant energy he displayed inside.

Bryony smiled, shrugging lightly. “Needed some air. It’s a bit much in there.”

A deep, resonating chuckle echoed from Dieter. His nod of agreement punctuated the understanding that passed between them as he savoured another puff. “Absolutely, it's quite the circus.” His eyes locked with hers in the sparse lighting, the soft intensity within them captivating her completely. The quietude that stretched between them was comfortable, each seeming to find solace in the other's company.

"Is it always this easy for you?" Bryony asked, playfully referring to the seamless charm he seemed to exude.

His shoulders moved in a casual shrug, his mischievous grin remaining in place, "Only with someone worth the effort." His statement, laced with flirtatious intent, hung in the air, amping up the tension between them.

Bryony blushed, "So, 'More Than I Should'," referring to Lloyds play that he'd mentioned he was starring in, "How's it coming along?" Her question attempted to keep the conversation casual, but there was no mistaking the flirtatious undertones.

Dieter exhaled a slow stream of smoke before answering, "It's intense," he confessed, his eyes following the trail of smoke. "Lloyd is a genius, and he’s pushing us to explore some profound emotional depths. The play has these intricate themes of love and loss that are quite compelling."

Bryony found herself nodding along. "I've been debating asking Lloyd for tickets. It sounds like an experience I shouldn't miss."

Dieter quirked a brow at her, "Why bother Lloyd when I can get them for you?" He challenged, his grin teasing and magnetic. "And I can do you one better. A dinner date after the show perhaps?"

"Really?" Bryony's surprise swiftly morphed into a delighted smile. "That's quite a generous offer, Mr. Bravo."

His response was a rumble of laughter, the sound warm and intimate. "Think of it as the first stop on Bravo New York experience," he quipped with a theatrical wave of his arm.

Bryony found herself laughing, charmed by his casual bravado. "A proposition like that is quite impossible to turn down. I'm in."

His eyes lit up at her acceptance, a spark of excitement dancing in them.

A yawn, wide and deep, escaped Bryony. She swiftly covered her mouth, but it was too late to hide. She laughed in embarrassment, "Sorry," she apologized, but it was barely a moment before another yawn surfaced.

Observing this, Dieter's lips curled into a smile. "Bryony my dear, I do believe your jet lag is catching up with you," he mused, "Perhaps it's time for Cinderella to consider her exit?"

Feigning a hurt expression, Bryony shot back, "Are you trying to get rid of me so soon?"

Dieter returned her playful jibe with a roguish grin. "On the contrary," he responded, his voice rich with amusement, "However, it wouldn’t do well for my reputation to have a lovely lady like you dozing off on me," he paused, his smile broadening, "Well, at least not because of my conversational skills."

Bryony’s laugh rang out, the sound brushing away her fatigue, if only for a moment. "Well, we certainly can't risk damaging your hard-earned reputation, can we?"

With a flourish, Dieter stubbed out the remnants of his cigarette and extended his arm to her. "Shall we?" He proposed, his tone layered with charm. "I owe you at least the courtesy of hailing you a cab."

Bryony bit her lip, taking appraise of the man before her. It wasn't as if she'd been lacking any attention on the romance front. Being currently single had been a choice for Bryony, she'd dedicated the last two years to her work on Dark Waters, determined to ensure its success. Her trip to New York however was initially intended for interviews and exploring the city's attractions. Dieter Bravo, on the other hand, was an unexpected surprise

Taking a deep breath, she linked her arm through his. "Alright, Dieter. Let's get a cab." She smiled gratefully at him. "You're quite the gentleman."

He returned her smile, the corner of his lips quirking up in a way that set her heart fluttering. "Only on occasion," he quipped as they started making their way out to the front of the townhouse.

Once outside, Dieter pulled out his phone and quickly typed something into it. He held it out to Bryony, the new contact page open, "Just making sure you can schedule your 'Bravo Tour' of New York," he teased, his tone a playful blend of humour and earnestness.

Accepting the phone, Bryony couldn't suppress her smile. Swiftly, she entered her number and hit 'save'. Regardless of the spontaneity of this evening, she knew one thing for certain: there was no doubt in her mind that she wanted to see him again.

Returning his phone, Bryony gave him a teasing smile, "I'll be expecting five-star service on this tour, Dieter." She could see the glint of excitement in his eyes, matching her own.

As their playful banter melted away, giving way to a comfortable, yet electrifying silence, an unspoken understanding passed between them. The air around them was charged with a palpable tension, a connection that neither of them could deny.

The late winter chill didn't bother Bryony as she stood under the muted glow of the street light, her eyes locked with Dieters. As he moved a step closer, erasing the minimal distance between them, a sense of anticipation knotted in her stomach. She was acutely aware of his presence - the intoxicating scent of his cologne, the broad expanse of his shoulders just inches from her, the defined angles of his jaw, and the alluring smile playing at the corners of his mouth.

Taking her by surprise, Dieter gently cradled the back of her neck, his gentle fingertips tracing over her skin. A small gasp escaped her lips, and without thinking, her hands found their places - one on his firm chest, the other resting lightly on his hip.

He ran his tongue over his lips, a seemingly innocuous gesture that set her heart racing. The playful tilt of his head and the knowing look in his eyes made it clear he was aware of the effect he had on her.

He pulled back slightly, surprising her with a gentle gesture as he pressed a soft kiss to her forehead, creating a moment of sweet tenderness that left her stunned and craving for more.

The unexpected tenderness of Dieter's kiss to her forehead sent a rush of warmth coursing through Bryony, leaving her a little breathless. The hint of surprise must have registered on her face, because Dieter's face split into a self-deprecating grin, "I know, not my usual style." He said with a shrug.

Exhaustion was starting to make itself known, her brain fuzzy around the edges, but she couldn't help the chuckle that escaped her lips at his admission, "You don't say."

His hand still held at her neck, thumb gently stroking the bare skin of her collarbone. The night was quiet around them, leaving them standing alone under the streetlamp. New York’s nightlife was dwindling down into a softer lull, the noise distant. Their surroundings were forgotten for a moment as Bryony got lost in Dieter's deep-set eyes.

The sudden transition from a simmering tension to this tender intimacy left Bryony both surprised and yearning for more. She found herself captivated by Dieter, his proximity allowing her to notice the faint flecks of gold in his deep brown eyes. His warm breath fanning her face caused her to catch her own.

"Dieter..." she uttered his name, a whisper amidst the gentle night breeze. Her emotions were bubbling to the surface, threatening to spill over. The fatigue of the long day, mixed with the unexpected intimacy she was experiencing with Dieter, was a potent concoction that made her feel unsteady.

Responding to the bewilderment mirrored in her eyes, Dieter offered a small, soothing smile. He swept a loose lock of hair away from her face, his thumb brushing lightly against her jawline. The electrifying sensation this created stayed with her, a tantalizing suggestion of what might be.

"You're tired," he acknowledged softly. His thumb traced the contour of her jaw in a languid stroke, igniting a trail of goosebumps down her spine. Then, in a statement that contradicted his usual impulsive nature, he added, "The city can wait for you. And so can I."

His words hung in the night air, a promise that left Bryony both intrigued and more confused than before. For Dieter, who was accustomed to pursuing his desires with relentless intensity, this restraint was uncharted territory. He was aware of the profound impact his words had, a stark contrast to his typical behaviour. The unfamiliar sensation of patiently waiting, rather than chasing fervently, gave him a sense of strange satisfaction.

But as the horn of a taxi Dieter had flagged broke through the silence, Dieter reluctantly let go of Bryony. "Your chariot awaits," he said with a smirk, his hand lingering for a moment longer before he finally stepped forward to hold the taxi door open for her.

"Goodnight, Dieter Bravo,"

"Goodnight, Bryony Morgan," he replied.

As the cab pulled away, leaving a somewhat dazed Dieter on the sidewalk, Bryony couldn't help but feel that this was just the beginning of their story. Little did she know, at that moment, just how drastically this unexpected rendezvous with Dieter Bravo would impact her future, transforming her world in ways she couldn't yet fathom.

---

As Bryony settled into the back of the taxi, the Brooklyn dissolving into a whirl of twinkling lights, she felt the familiar buzz of her phone from inside her purse.

Pulling it out, she noticed a new text message from Gina lighting up the screen.

"Sorry I missed you leaving babes, I hope you had a great time??? Coffee tomorrow? I didn't even get a chance to introduce you to that guy! He's a production assistant on Lloyd's latest show, James. I think you and him would hit it off! Love you lots, g'night xxx"

#dieter bravo #dieter bravo x oc #dieter bravo x ofc #dieter bravo fanfiction #pedro pascal character fanfic #pedro pascal character fanfiction #the bubble

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xpressairporttransfers · 6 months

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taxi transfer from Heathrow Airport to York for business and leisure travelers

Traveling from Heathrow Airport to York is a common route for both business and leisure travelers. Located about 210 miles apart, Heathrow Airport in London and the historic city of York in North Yorkshire are connected by a variety of transportation options, with hiring a taxi being one of the most convenient and comfortable choices.

Benefits of Hiring a Heathrow Airport to York Taxi

1. Convenience and Comfort: Hiring a taxi offers door-to-door service, allowing you to travel directly from Heathrow Airport to your destination in York without the need for multiple transfers or handling luggage across different modes of transport.

2. Flexibility: Taxis provide flexibility in terms of departure time. You can schedule your pickup according to your flight arrival time and travel at your own pace.

3. Privacy: Unlike public transportation, a taxi offers a private and quiet environment, ideal for resting after a long flight or preparing for upcoming meetings if you’re traveling for business.

4. Luggage Handling: Taxis can accommodate your luggage needs, offering ample space for both standard and oversized bags.

About Heathrow Airport :

Heathrow Airport, located in London, is one of the busiest and most well-known airports in the world. Serving as a major international gateway, it handles millions of passengers annually, connecting them to destinations across the globe. This article provides a detailed overview of Heathrow Airport, covering its history, facilities, operations, and significance in the aviation industry.

Terminals and Facilities

Terminal 2 (The Queen's Terminal): Serving primarily Star Alliance airlines, Terminal 2 features modern amenities, including numerous shops, restaurants, and lounges. It is designed to provide an efficient and pleasant experience for passengers.

Terminal 3: Known for its extensive long-haul network, Terminal 3 Terminal 3 hosts airlines from various alliances, including Oneworld and SkyTeam. It offers a wide range of dining and shopping options, as well as luxurious lounges for premium passengers.

Terminal 4: Catering to a mix of international and regional flights, Terminal 4 includes facilities such as a spa, executive lounges, and diverse retail outlets. It serves as a hub for SkyTeam airlines.

Terminal 5: Exclusively used by British Airways and Iberia, Terminal 5 Terminal 5 is known for its state-of-the-art design and extensive services. It includes numerous retail stores, a variety of dining options, and multiple lounges.

Cost of Hiring a Heathrow Airport to York Taxi

The cost of hiring a taxi from Heathrow to York taxi from Heathrow to York can vary based

on several factors:

· Distance: The journey covers approximately 210 miles, influencing the base fare.

· Type of Vehicle: Standard sedans, executive cars, and larger vehicles like minivans have different pricing structures.

· Time of Travel: Nighttime, weekends, and holidays may incur additional charges.

· Additional Services: Requests for child seats, extra luggage handling, or meet-and-greet services can increase the fare.

On average, you can expect to pay between £250 and £400 for a one-way trip, depending on the factors mentioned above.

Booking Options

1. Online Taxi Services: Many companies offer online booking platforms where you can schedule your trip in advance. Websites like Xpress Airport transfer and UK Airport Rides allow you to compare prices and book directly.

2. Taxi Apps: Apps like Uber and Bolt provide the convenience of booking a ride through your smartphone. These apps often show real-time availability and estimated fares.

3. Airport Taxi Services: Heathrow Airport has designated taxi ranks where you can hire a black cab or book a private hire vehicle through companies operating at the airport.

4. Pre-Arranged Services: Travel agents or hotel concierge services can arrange taxi bookings for you, ensuring a hassle-free experience upon arrival.

Tips for a Smooth Travel Experience From Heathrow Airport to York

· Book in Advance: To ensure availability and possibly get better rates, book your Heathrow Airport to York taxi well in advance of your travel date.

· Confirm Flight Details: Provide accurate flight information to the taxi service, allowing them to monitor your arrival time and adjust pickup if there are delays.

· Check Reviews: Look for reviews of the taxi service provider to ensure reliability and quality of service.

· Prepare for the Journey: The drive from Heathrow to York takes about 4 to 5 hours. Have snacks, water, and entertainment ready, especially if traveling with children.

· Understand the Cancellation Policy: Be aware of the service’s cancellation policy in case your travel plans change unexpectedly.

Hiring a taxi from Heathrow Airport to York or York to Heathrow Airport taxiYork to heathrow Airport taxi is an excellent choice for travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and a direct travel route. By understanding the costs, booking options, and tips for a smooth experience, you can ensure a stress-free journey from one of the world's busiest airports to the historic and charming city of York. Whether you are visiting for business or leisure, a taxi ride can provide the perfect start to your trip.

Popular Attractions In York

1. York Minster: This magnificent Gothic cathedral is one of the largest of its kind in Northern Europe, boasting stunning stained-glass windows, intricate stone carvings, and a rich history dating back over a thousand years.

2. The Shambles: Often described as Europe's best-preserved medieval street, The Shambles is lined with overhanging timber-framed buildings housing boutique shops, cafes, and traditional businesses, offering a glimpse into York's historic past.

3. Clifford's Tower: Standing atop a grassy mound, this 13th-century tower offers panoramic views of York's skyline and surrounding countryside. Originally built by William the Conqueror, it serves as a reminder of the city's medieval fortifications.

4. Jorvik Viking Centre: Transport yourself back in time to the Viking age at this immersive museum, where visitors can explore reconstructed Viking streets, witness archaeological finds, and learn about York's Viking heritage through interactive exhibits.

5. York City Walls: Walk along the ancient city walls, which date back to Roman times but largely reflect medieval construction, for a unique perspective on York's layout and history. The walls offer scenic views of the city and access to various historic sites along the way, including gatehouses and towers.

Other Route to and From Heathrow Airport We Serve :

Taxi from Gatwick Airport to Southampton port

Taxi from Southampton port to Gatwick Airport

Taxi From Southampton Port to Gatwick South Terminal

Taxi From Southampton Port to Gatwick North Terminal

Taxi from Stansted Airport to Southampton port

Taxi from Southampton Port to Stansted Airport

Taxi from Heathrow Airport to Southampton port

Taxi from Southampton Port to Heathrow Airport

Taxi from Southampton Port to Heathrow Terminal 3

Taxi from Southampton Port to Heathrow Terminal 2

Taxi from Southampton Port to Heathrow Terminal 5

Taxi from Southampton Port to Luton Airport

Taxi from Luton Airport to Southampton port

Taxi from Heathrow Airport to York

Taxi from York to heathrow Airport

#Taxi from Heathrow Airport to York

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peliccancars · 1 year

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Airport Ride from London City Airport E16 to Gatwick Airport RH6

Introduction: Traveling between airports can be a challenging task, particularly when it comes to finding a reliable and convenient transportation option. If you're looking for a trusted airport ride from London City Airport (E16) to Gatwick Airport (RH6), Peliccan Cars is the perfect choice. With their unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and dedication to providing top-notch transportation services, Peliccan Cars ensures a seamless and comfortable journey between these two significant airports.

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Comfort and Convenience: Peliccan Cars understands the importance of comfort and convenience during your airport ride. Their fleet of well-maintained vehicles is designed to provide a comfortable and relaxing experience. Equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, spacious seating, and ample luggage space, Peliccan Cars ensures that you can sit back and unwind during your journey. They strive to make your airport ride from London City Airport to Gatwick Airport as comfortable and convenient as possible.

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Conclusion: When it comes to a reliable and convenient airport ride from London City Airport E16 to Gatwick Airport RH6, Peliccan Cars is the ideal choice. With their commitment to reliability, convenience, comfort, and safety, they strive to make your journey a seamless and enjoyable experience.

#taxi london city airport #london city airport ride #cab london city airport #london city airport taxi near me

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haileyholland · 2 months

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𝑙𝑒𝑡𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑠 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑗𝑜𝑠𝑒𝑝ℎ𝑖𝑛𝑒 𝑡𝑜 𝑛𝑎𝑝𝑜𝑙𝑒𝑜𝑛

whenever someone mentioned the tale of two lovers, hailey swore she had felt the exact same way. the depths to which two people suddenly merged into one, the sensation of desire and the need to constantly be embraced by your significant other—she had felt it. or at least, that's what she thought she had. in high school, like everyone else, she had read hamlet and romeo and juliet. for an assignment, she had studied the letters from napoleon to josephine. she had felt it.

but the thing is, she hadn't. not until she found herself completely shattered by losing tom. for over a month, she questioned why she had married him so fast to begin with. it made no sense, especially when she knew firsthand that vows could easily be broken. it didn't matter that they had stood before god and vowed to love each other for as long as they both lived. all it took was a piece of paper, and those vows were nothing more than words spoken to entertain the illusion of love. but losing tom made her understand. she understood why some people struggled to breathe.

over the course of 43 days, hailey received flowers and letters from tom. she heard his plea for redemption, felt the weight of his apologies scar her heart, and the echoes of his voice cut deep. mostly because she wanted to give in, to cave, to let him know that she still believed his love could awaken her soul. but she was afraid. afraid that if she ever opened up to love once again, her heart wouldn't heal. no, she knew it wouldn't heal.

but then, last night, when tom told her to come home, his demeanor shifted from begging to downright commanding, hailey felt a rush course through her veins, as if she had been woken up from a long slumber. and even though she didn't give him an answer, unsure of what she truly wanted until his voice commanded her to wake up, she knew deep down what she should do.

so, after pleading with kim to let her use her private plane to fly to london, listing all the reasons why she needed it, kim finally caved. thankfully, kim was a believer in love, understanding the importance of fighting for the person you believe you're destined to be with. with determination in her heart, hailey hailed the first available cab and headed straight to camarillo airport.

throughout the plane ride from california to london, hailey found herself unable to sleep, her mind consumed by fear. she didn't have a plan—she didn't even know where to begin. all she knew was that she was tired of feeling numb, tired of the constant ache that had left her heart in complete darkness.

but in the middle of that fear, one thing remained clear: tom was the key to unlocking the emotions she had long buried. he was the beacon of light in her darkness, the promise of warmth. with each passing mile, she found herself drawn closer to the one person who held the power to heal her shattered heart.

after a 10-hour flight, kim's plane finally landed at heathrow airport. exhausted and disheveled from the plane ride, she wasted no time in securing a rental car to navigate the rain-soaked streets of london. with raindrops splattering against the windshield, she started driving through the city.

arriving at tom's apartment building, her mind nervous and fear evident on her features, she hurried inside. but her hopes were crushed when the doorman informed her that tom had left hours earlier. alone in the lobby, raindrops tracing paths down her cheeks, hailey tried to recall places that tom had mentioned whenever he spoke about london..

letting out a deep breath, hailey quickly grabbed her phone, her fingers trembling as she dialed paddy's number. as the call connected, relief flooded her when paddy quickly provided her with tom's whereabouts.

as soon as hailey pulled up to the theater where tom was supposed to be, she pounded on the main entrance door, rain drenching her clothes. but no one answered. she could have just waited at his apartment building, but deep down, she knew that epic love stories were born from grand gestures.

so, after thinking for a minute, she ventured behind the theater, down a shadowy alley. and there, like a stroke of luck, she found two stage workers on a break. nervously, she walked up to them and poured out her heart, explaining why she needed to get inside, and after what felt like an eternity of pleading, they finally relented. reluctantly, they allowed her entry. and with each step she took into the theater, she felt her heart racing, knowing that she was one step closer to finding him.

walking through the narrow corridors, passing numerous people dressed in medieval robes, she paused the moment she heard a familiar voice coming from the center stage. with her heart pounding, she edged closer until she finally spotted him, standing mid-stage, rehearsing lines with the director. she knew it wasn't the right time to approach him, nor was it appropriate to disrupt his work. but as she stood there at the edge of the stage, her fingers clutching the curtain for support, she closed her eyes and took a deep breath. it was now or never.

with a sudden wave of courage, hailey stepped onto the stage, her heart racing with each stride until she reached him. "i'm home," she declared, her voice echoing in the now silent theater. / @cfhllnd

#( para : tom holland. )

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petertingle-yipyip · 2 years

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DIRTY THOUGHTS - MARC SPECTOR

Pairing: merc!Marc Spector x merc!Reader

Word Count: 3,859

Summary: When the perfect mission falls in your lap, you and Marc take your assignment a bit too literally. //slight praise and i think minimal dirty talk, nothing explicit//

At that point, you couldn’t remember your contact’s real name. You had changed his name in your phone to simple dollar signs, a nod to the fact that you only called him or answered his calls when you needed extra cash. And that weekend, spare time meant taking a job.

“Just the girl I was thinking about.” Your contact said happily as he answered.

“Yeah, yeah.” You rolled your eyes, though you wore a small smile as you dropped over the arm of your couch. “I got a free weekend and need some extra cash. What do you got?”

“Félix Ortega.”

The man you had a personal vendetta against. Slum lord for your parent’s neighborhood. Cartel boss that roped your brother in. Murderer who killed your childhood friends. He pretty much had a hand in ruining everything in your life.

“Shut up.” You said firmly and sat up in shock. “Are you serious?”

“Have I ever lied to you?”

“Yes.” You deadpanned. “Multiple times.”

“Sure, okay, but not this time. I swear. I’ll send the file when we’re off the phone. Who do you wanna take?”

“Who’s available?”

“All of your favorites.”

You thought for a second.

“I want Spector.”

“I knew it.” He chuckled.

“What’s the payout?”

“200K.”

“Make it 250 each and I’m in.”

“Really?” He teased and you heard typing from the other side of the call. “You’ve been wanting to go after Félix for months and now you wanna barter?”

“Told you I need cash.” You shrugged. “We got a deal?”

“Whatever you want.” He sighed and you grinned triumphantly. “Where you flying out from? I’ll send a ticket and a hotel res with the file.”

“Vegas.. Where’s Marc?”

“London.”

The next day, you and Marc were in a taxi driving through the streets of Mexico City. You were sent the file the night before and you reviewed it on your flight. You and Marc met at the airport, his flight arriving a couple hours after yours.

You liked working with Marc. He was quick and efficient, but knew when enough was enough. He avoided civilian casualties and injuries as much as he could. He still had a heart and that was unheard of as far as mercenaries go. You wouldn’t even say you had a heart persay, just a stance against hurting kids or innocents.

But that soft spot Marc had, it earned him a special part in your head and heart. You tried to work with Marc as often as you could, just as an excuse to spend time with him. You thought that not only did he have a pretty face, but he had a good heart and that was something you wanted to keep.

Even if it technically wasn’t yours.

“Did you get the reservation?” You asked Marc as you two exited the cab and grabbed your bags from the curb. “All I got was the file and my plane.”

“Yeah, I got it.” Marc nodded, holding the hotel door open for you. He followed quickly behind you, sidestepping to get in front of you when you reached the desk.

“Hi.” He greeted the receptionist with a smile. Her eyes widened a bit before she looked him up and down. “We have a reservation, last name Grant.”

You quirked a brow at him but said nothing. You hadn’t realized your contact was going to use a fake name but you supposed it made sense.

“The honeymoon suite.” She nodded and slid over a paper and the keycards. “Congratulations.” There was a jealous bitterness to her voice. It almost made you laugh.

Marc signed the paper with a small chuckle, glancing up to shoot you a wink as he gathered the cards. He nodded in thanks to the receptionist and dragged you to the elevator.

“Honeymoon suite?” You teased as the door closed behind you two.

“Guess that makes you Mrs. Spector for the weekend.” He smirked, nudging you with his elbow.

“Mrs. Grant if anything, it seems.” You crossed your arms and he smiled. “You do realize the Honeymoon suite probably means one bed?”

You turned to look up at Marc and he held your wide-eyed gaze, if only for a second. You knew your cheeks were turning pink and your lips were fighting to turn upwards in a teasing smile. He cleared his throat when you tilted your head and turned to the elevator doors as they pinged and opened.

“Yeah.. The couch’s probably a pull-out so I can sleep there.” He shrugged and motioned for you to go first.

“We’ll see if I want you to.” You nodded, though Marc stole one more glance at your face as it fell slightly before you stepped out.

He followed quietly behind, only speaking up when you two got to the room. He unlocked it and sidestepped, again letting you go first. You hummed a thanks and stepped inside, not surprised to see the one massive bed in the room. Though the room was more spacious than you figured, having a bathroom to the left of the front door and a small kitchenette to the right. Beyond the bathroom was the bed and then a short step down to what you could best describe as a common area with two arm chairs, a plush sofa, an entertainment center with a fair sized TV, and a small dining table with two chairs to match. The farthest wall housed a sliding glass door that led to a wide balcony that had a beautiful view of the older, historical parts of town.

“Did you read over the file?” You asked Marc as you propped a knee on the edge of the bed.

“I glanced.” He nodded, dropping his bag down in one of the armchairs. “You?”

“Yeah, I read it on the plane.. Ortega has a pattern that we have to fit into, but should be easy enough”

“What kinda pattern?” Marc asked, though his back was to you as he rummaged through his bag.

“Every weekend, he goes to the same club.” You turned and opened your own bag, hunting for the dress you had packed for that night. Black, tight, short, and low cut with a slit. “He picks one or two girls and takes them home.”

“So you’re gonna seduce him?” He snorted. “How do you plan to seduce a guy you hate? You’ve-“ He chuckled. “You’ve probably told me seventeen different ways you’d want to kill him.”

“We are gonna seduce him, actually.” You corrected, turning to see him staring at you with hands on his hips. “He only goes after hot women-“ You gestured to yourself. “-with hot boyfriends.” You pointed to him.

“He likes his women to be trophies.” Marc nodded and turned away again.

“He has a type.” You shrugged and found the dress. You began changing out of your travel outfit. “That being said, when we get to the club, you need to pretend like you’re into me.”

“Yeah, I can do that.”

“Okay, but not just ‘Yeah, she’s kinda hot’.” You rolled your eyes as you wiggled into your dress. “I need you to act like you want to fuck me or we’ll never get Ortega alone.”

There was no answer to that. You stepped into the bathroom and twisted around in the mirror to try and zip your dress. Though when you couldn’t quite get it, you huffed and went back out for your makeup bag.

You glanced up at Marc and saw him buttoning his shirt, a dark green shirt with sleeves neatly rolled up to his elbows. He tucked his shirt into his slacks and turned towards you as he zipped, buttoned, and did his belt. He cleared his throat and your attention snapped from the movement of his hands to his face, which gave you an amused smirk.

“Can you help with the zipper?” You asked sheepishly, turning your back to him quickly to hide the blush creeping across your cheeks.

The tension between you two wasn’t quite a secret, but it was still embarrassing to be caught staring. Especially as your mind was threatening to wander towards dirty thoughts.

He chuckled and came over, gently pushing your hair over your shoulder. He pulled the zipper up slowly, ghosting his fingers across your shoulders when he finished just to see if you would react. And you did, shivering slightly.

“Thanks.” You tossed your hair back and grabbed your small pouch so you could duck back into the bathroom.

“So.” He came and leaned against the doorway. “That’s the dress you’re wearing tonight…”

“No, I had you zip me up just to take it off.” You rolled your eyes slightly as you pulled out the makeup you needed. “Why?”

“You look good.. Really good., actually.”

“Then you’ll have no problem playing along, right?” You teased and started your quick makeup routine. “Less work I have to do the better.”

“Right… Might lead to another problem though.”

“Which is?” You turned to him.

He simply shook his head with a chuckle. He pushed himself off and left, leaving you to wonder what he could possibly mean by that. You turned back to the mirror and made a face to yourself before touching up your makeup. After a few minutes, you went back out and tossed the makeup in the bag before finding your heels.

You sat beside Marc on the bed, who had been laying on his back on his phone. Your weight making the bed dip drew his attention and he watched as you leaned over and worked the buckle on one shoe. He hauled himself up without a word and knelt in front of you, his hands covering yours and taking over. You glanced up and saw just how close he was and it made your breath catch in your throat.

Dirty thoughts, indeed.

His hands easily fastened the buckle and then switched to the other shoe. Once that was done, both hands went behind your knees and pulled you towards him. He offered you a shit eating grin after you gasped. You broke into a laugh and scooted yourself back, though it was hard to ignore that it was a beautiful angle to see him from.

“Fucker.” You laughed it off and he held a hand out for you as he stood.

You accepted his help and let him pull you up. He lifted your hand above your head and gave you a spin, letting out a long whistle as he did. You giggled and pulled the fabric of your dress down. His hand found your lower back as he guided you out of the room and towards the elevator.

“My purse.” You tried, though his hand continued to push you forward. “Wait-“

“Don’t worry about it.” He said with a shrug.

“But my gun is in my purse.”

“You won’t need it.”

“Marc.”

You turned to face him after you two got into the elevator.

“I got you covered, babe.” His fingers came under you chin as he gave your face a small shake. “You trust me?”

He looked down at you with a small smile and slightly raised brows. You knew you trusted him and he knew it too. You knew he just wanted to hear you say it. So if he said he had you covered, you were covered. You smiled widely and reached up to take his wrist. You slowly pulled his hand away, noting how his thumb dragged down your chin.

“Yeah, I trust you.”

The ride to the club was quick enough. The bouncers let you two in without much of a second thought and the music blasted you as soon as you walked in. The smell of liquor was all over as you two squeezed through the crowd, hand in hand. You weren’t sure if it was to sell the facade, make sure you two didn’t lose each other, or just because Marc wanted to.

“See him yet?” He leaned over to ask you.

“No… What do you wanna do?” You asked in return.

He jerked his head towards an open table near the dance floor. You followed him easily and sat close to him, close enough that your knees pressed together. He kept a hand on your thigh as he looked around. He had scooted forward to the edge of his seat, as if to block you from the rest of the club.

Your own eyes scanned the room and locked with someone familiar in the VIP area behind a thick velvet rope. You smiled at him and his eyes scanned Marc before he looked back to you. He nodded to Marc and then to you and you tilted your head back and forth as if you were thinking. He smiled and wagged a finger at you before he nodded and stepped away. You rolled your eyes once his eyes left you and nearly gagged at the interaction.

You sat up on your knees and leaned forward and draped your arm over his shoulder, resting your chin on the other side. You turned your head to speak lowly in Marc’s ear, his own head turning towards you slightly.

“Hi.” He smirked.

“I’ve got him.” You answered. He shifted in his seat to face you better. “VIP. We caught his eye already.”

“That was easy.”

You hummed in agreement and swung your leg over his lap. His eyes went wide for a second but his hands found a home at the back of your thighs and his fingers inched under the hen of your dress. He leaned his head back against the wall and smirked lazily up at you.

“Enjoying the view?” You teased and rested your hands on his shoulders.

“I am, actually.” He chuckled, pulling you up and closer to his chest.

“I can tell.” You nodded towards his lap and he just shook his head with a smile. “Is that the ‘other problem’ you mentioned?”

“Can you blame me?” He shrugged.

You leaned forward so your lips grazed his as you spoke. “Dance with me.”

“Fuck.” He groaned quietly, fingers gripping your thighs a bit tighter.

He tilted his head up as he shifted the position of his hands quickly. One hand landed on your hip and pushed you down against him while the other came to the back of your neck. Your own hands took a tight hold of his shirt as he pulled you closer so your lips finally met.

The pulsing music of the club seemed to disappear. The flashing lights behind your closed lids seemed brighter. Everything seemed to disappear other than Marc, his grip on your hip and the way your lips moved together. You had to be the one to pull away, though he chased your lips.

“Dance with me.” You repeated, mildly out of breath. “We still need Ortega.”

“Screw Ortega.” He shook his head and leaned into you again.

“No.” You giggled and pulled back, earning a frown in response. “We need to get this done first. We have a job to do, baby.”

You climbed out of his lap and pulled your skirt down again while he grumbled to himself before getting up. You held a hand out to him and he took it dramatically before you led him to the dance floor. You turned to face him while placing his hands on your lower back. You wrapped your arms around his neck. He pressed you close to him as you two began to match the fast beat of the music.

“I’m impressed, Mr. Spector.” You giggled.

“Why’s that?” He chuckled.

“I didn’t think you’d know how to dance to Hispanic music.”

“No? Guess there’s a lot you don’t know about me.” He shrugged with a cocky smirk.

“Is that an invitation to find out more?” You raised your brows. “Cause I’m willing to stick around.”

He smiled and spun you around so your back was against his chest. He leaned down to speak lowly in your ear.

“Speak of the Devil.” You grumbled as Marc reclaimed his hold on your hips.

“You’ve got an admirer.” He said before placing a teasing kiss below your ear. Your shoulder instinctively came up and your head turned towards him, earning a chuckle from him. “You okay, baby? You’re blushing.”

“Fuck off.” You smiled and turned away with a heat rising to your cheeks.

You locked eyes again with Ortega and he lifted his drink towards you. You blew him a kiss and his brows raised as he laughed. He nodded and held a finger to you, as if to ask you to give him a minute but your next actions made him hold your gaze with his mouth slightly agape.

Your hips moved in a steady rhythm against Marc. You felt one of his hands sliding up your spine and pressing gently to bend you over while the other held your waist. Your hands braced yourself against your knees while Marc moved with you to the music, hips grinding against each other in a way that sent goosebumps across your skin. Marc’s hands slid to your chest and pulled you up quickly, allowing you to flip your hair and lean your head back against his shoulder.

You were so lost in your movements and Marc’s presence that you forgot you were supposed to be teasing Ortega. Your mission had easily become a cat and mouse game between you two, and you both loved every second of it.

You guided Marc’s hands in two different directions. He hummed in interest as you brought one hand up and over your chest to the base of your throat. The other was guided down over your stomach to the top of your leg.

Your clouded gaze found Ortega, the eye contact practically slapping you back to reality as he grinned excitedly and turned to talk to his friends. Marc’s fingers landed on either side of your jaw and he jerked your head to the side to look at him. Your eyes were wide, only for a second.

“Do you know what you’re doin’ to me, pretty girl?” He mumbled.

“You’re doing so well, handsome.” You smiled lazily, returning his praise.

He squeezed your face gently and you bit your lower lip before he kissed you roughly. You hummed in content and twisted in his arms so you were chest to chest, his hands gripping your waist as your fingers slid into his hair. He bit your bottom lip gently, drawing a small noise from your throat.

“Perdón.”A voice said from your side. You two pulled apart slowly, though Marc’s grip on you never faltered. You had to drop your face to the crook of Marc’s neck to hide your expression, which was a mix of annoyance and disgust. “May I?”

Looking over, you saw Ortega staring at you with lust clouded eyes. You forced a smile and glanced back at Marc, finding he was already looking at you. You gave his arm a slight squeeze before kissing his cheek. He frowned at you slightly but released his grip and let you leave with Ortega.

The man led you out of the club and into the side alley that opened into the parking lot. He backed you against the wall and placed a hand against it near your head. You hummed slightly as you looked up at him with wide, doe-eyes.

“All night, I see you with him.” He said lowly, his free hand tracing your cheekbone. “But I see how you look at me.”

“You’re an easy man to be distracted by.” You answered smoothly, watching him swallow hard at your words.

“What is your name?”

“Whatever you want it to be.”

“That mouth gets you into trouble, doesn’t it?” He smiled as his thumb traced your lower lip.

“That’s not how my husband would explain it.” You glanced around and noticed Marc had followed you two out and was waiting behind one of the cars in the lot. He raised his brows at you expectantly when you caught his gaze but you ignored it. Instead, you turned back to Ortega.

“Husband, hmm?”

“Yes… My husband… Very handsome, very generous lover.”

“Yet you’re here with me.”

“Mhmm.” You slid your hands up his chest and under his jacket, earning a groan from his throat. Your fingers brushed the gun in his holster but he didn’t seem to notice. “I hope you’re worth it, Félix.”

“I assure you I-“ He began but paused, tilting his head with a small chuckle. “I didn’t tell you my name.”

“No.” You said softly, gripping his gun under his jacket. “You didn’t.”

You pulled the gun and pushed him away, pressing the barrel against his forehead. He backed away from you with hands raised in surrender until his back hit the opposite wall. Marc was quick to come to your side with his own gun in hand. One of his hands came around your waist and he pressed a quick kiss to your temple.

“The mastermind, Félix Ortega.” You mocked. “And all it took was a pretty face to get you alone. You’ve tormented my family for years… How fitting that I’m the one to end it.”

“I don’t even know who you are.” He tried to defend.

“Good.”

You pulled the trigger.

Later that night, back at your hotel room, you were still in your clothes from the club. Marc was getting out of the shower.

You thought you should be glad, relieved even. You caught up to Ortega and got rid of him. You earned 250k and hardly did anything. But still… Your mind was elsewhere.

Your mind replayed Marc’s touches, the way he gripped your body and the way he kissed you. Every memory reignited those parts of you, memories leaving that patch of skin alight with desire, with the ghost of his touch that you wanted to feel again - even though you knew it was fake. You were so caught up that you hadn’t even realized he came back into the room.

“You okay?” He asked. snapping your attention up.

“Huh? Yeah, I’m… great.” You tried.

“I know you better than that, Y/N.” He sighed and sat beside you. “What’s wrong?”

“It’s just surreal, I guess. That he’s gone… That I did it.” You shrugged and looked down to your hands in your lap. “You were really good tonight… Real convincing. It was fun..”

“Cause I wasn’t pretending.” His fingers came under your chin and gently turned your face to look at him. “I didn’t have to. With the way you looked in that dress, I…” He licked his lips as he scanned your figure. “I had to try not to fuck you all night. Just the thought of it, I… I couldn’t stop thinking about it.”

“Yeah?” You smiled slightly. “You gonna do something about it, handsome? Or are you just gonna think about it?”

“Oh, baby.” He groaned and pulled you closer by your chin. “Just want you to say it.”

“Say what?” You teased and leaned in closer. “That I want you?”

“Say it.”

“What do you want me to tell you?”

“Say it, baby. C’mon.” He squeezed your face gently and you hummed, biting your lower lip. “Lemme hear you, pretty girl.”

“Well, we are in the honeymoon suite after all. And what are honeymoons for?”

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