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born-to-lose-writing · 25 days ago

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You Make It Feel Like Christmas

Pairing: old!Roger Daltrey x reader

Requested by anon

Summary: You spend the holiday season with Roger.

Tags: fluff, one sexual reference

Words: 1,321

A/N: Since I've been down bad for old man Roger lately, here's some Christmas fluff 💖

Tag list: @johnentwistlesbassguitar

These weren't your first holidays with Roger, but the first you spent with him entirely after you had only had a small personal celebration on the 23rd last year before spending actual Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with your families, respectively. To say the least, you were excited to experience the whole holiday magic as you now lived with him and had the chance to prepare for and celebrate Christmas with someone you loved like you had dreamed of.

However, Roger was a worthy opponent in the battle of who was more excited. Since mid-November, he had pointed out nearly daily how many days there were until Christmas. You adored how he was still looking forward to it this much while most people his age weren't too invested anymore and only saw the stressful side of the holidays. Despite having played Ebenezer Scrooge, he wasn't one at all.

It was almost like he was a child again, especially when you started decorating the house. He had plenty of decorations—many from the time when his daughters and sons were little—and he let you go through them all and choose this year’s theme. In case you found you needed more, he offered to buy some with you, but his selection was good enough and you only ended up getting a new table runner while you accompanied Roger buying presents for his kids and grandkids.

You had met them all separately before during your time with Roger, but this year, you were going to be together with his whole family for the first time as they were coming over for Christmas Day. You were a little anxious, even though there was no real reason to be, yet you also couldn't wait to see them all again, not least because Roger was happy whenever they visited him.

First, you decorated outside the house, but it was inside where you got to be more creative, putting up fairy lights, candle arches, paper stars, bows, snow globes, nutcrackers, porcelain figures and whatever else you found in his collection. You regularly asked Roger if he thought it was too kitschy, but he just watched you adoringly, handing you more decorations with sparkling eyes and saying he got to decorate every year, so you were welcome to do whatever you wanted.

Obviously, you let him help you decide where to put the items you had picked. That way, it was more fun for both of you and to reward yourselves afterwards, he made some eggnog and you cosied up to the fireplace in the living room together.

“We should get matching socks, shouldn't we?” you suggested, rubbing your leg against his.

“I wasn't going to reveal it until Christmas Eve, but I got us two pairs,” he said after a short pause. “It's not the only thing I have for you, so if you want, we can wear them earlier than that.”

“You really think of everything, don't you? It’s up to you, I don't mind only getting them for Christmas either,” you shrugged.

Roger put his mug down and wrapped both arms around you. Suddenly, you started giggling. “What is it?” he asked, smiling because you sounded like you were up to something.

“I also got matching outfits for us, but you'll definitely only see them in three weeks.”

“That’s okay, I like surprises,” he laughed, interlocking his fingers with yours. He did like surprises, but he was curious what your matching outfits would be; he had a feeling it would either be ugly Christmas sweaters or those silly costumes you could get at department stores.

Besides decorating and other projects Roger had to keep busy and liked to involve you in, you took walks on most days and when it snowed, it was even better. There wasn't enough to build a snowman or make snow angels, but it was nice to just watch the snowflakes fall and realise that Christmas was coming closer.

Of course, you also baked at least twice a week and always together. Roger's recipes were the best and it was no wonder the cookies, cupcakes and cakes you made were gone within two days.

You put down the tray of cookies and turned around to get a plate from the cupboard, but bumped into Roger, who was puckering his lips. “Give me a kiss!”

“Again?” you asked, surprised. He had just kissed you before turning off the oven when the timer rang.

“Didn't you see the mistletoe?” He grinned and nodded up at the mistletoe dangling from the ceiling above you.

You wondered where he even picked as much mistletoe as he hung up all over the house, insisting it's tradition every time you were standing underneath one. However, you were not complaining at all. You would kiss him all day if you could and he was committed to getting as close to kissing you all day as possible. His smile each time you leaned in to give into his gentle demands was the cutest thing.

You chuckled, putting your arms around his middle and pointing out, “You put them up everywhere, and I know you have one behind your back.”

Roger moved his face towards yours and closed his eyes, mumbling, “Mhm, that's for special kisses.”

Then he raised his occupied hand above your heads and eagerly kissed you—deeper than your usual chaste and sweet mistletoe kisses. In the heat of the moment, he pressed you against the edge of the counter, but he soon pulled away and reached up to open the cupboard, handing you the plate you had almost forgotten about by now.

“Thank you,” you said, still playing with the curls at the back of his head and pecking his lips before he stepped aside to let you get back to what you had been doing.

Finally, the day to see your promised matching outfits came. You had wrapped them in pretty paper and gave Roger his, leaving the room to get dressed yourself. Watching each other change was no issue at all, but you found it would make for a more dramatic reveal if you did that separately. Your costume probably looked more stupid than his, but you liked wearing it for a laugh.

You heard footsteps getting louder from the doorway of the living room and before you stood Roger dressed up as Santa Claus, wearing his classic wide smile. As you looked him up and down with a grin, he put his hands on his stomach and laughed exaggeratedly. Due to the way his normal laugh often sounded like a jolly elf, your costume may have been fitting for him too. Perhaps next year. However, he looked better in this outfit than you had expected. A little silly, but it suited him and he seemed to be having fun with it.

“Father Christmas? More like Daddy Christmas,” you purred teasingly, walking up to him and placing the matching hat on his head.

He put his hands on his hips and looked over the edge of his glasses. “Don't make me add you to the naughty list.”

“Oh come on, I’m only guilty of innocence,” you said, batting your eyelashes at him. God knows he had been naughtier than you, though much less now than back in the day, which you appreciated in certain aspects.

Roger sat in the armchair next to him and you immediately took a seat on his lap, wrapping your arms around his neck. He gently put a hand on your thigh to keep you in place and smiled, stroking it with his thumb. Then he straightened up and asked like a mall Santa, but with genuineness in his tone, “What's your wish, darling?”

You stayed silent for a moment, getting lost in his blue eyes. “I have everything I could wish for,” you replied, gently pulling down his fake beard and cupping his cheeks as you leaned in to kiss him.

#mel writes #the who #roger daltrey #musician #self insert #fluff #one shot #roger daltrey x reader #roger daltrey fic #the who fic

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dramioneasks · 11 days ago

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Christmas Fics (2024) (Part 13):

Frosting, Fairies, & Father Christmas by sarahsempra - E, one-shot - “Wait,” Draco said, suddenly pulling away from Theo just as the brunette went in for a kiss. “Did you say you ate all of the Christmas cookies?” A sheepish expression crossed Theo’s face, his sapphire eyes flashing with the slightest hint of trepidation before grinning at Draco. "Well, the kids need to think Father Christmas came, right? Obviously, someone needed to eat the cookies…” Draco stepped back, leaving Hermione perched on the table, and looked at Theo with utter betrayal splashed across his face. And you didn’t think to share?! I love Christmas cookies!” OR The one where Hermione, Draco, & Theo get things ready to give their children a magical Christmas morning and end up having some Christmas magic of their own. [Draco x Hermione x Theo]

White Elephant by TotallyTalia - G, one-shot - During the Auror Department's annual White Elephant Christmas Gift Exchange at the annual holiday party, Draco Malfoy takes the term "White Elephant" a little too literally.

if you ever want to be in love by Wanderingfair - E, one-shot - “How did you two meet?” Rolf Scamander is nice, companionable. She likes him for Luna. She doesn’t correct the implication as Draco slips his hand around her waist. She wants to say, we’re partners. We’re friends. We’ve saved each other in a million tiny, life-altering ways. “Oh, we’ve met in every universe.” A love story told through the vignettes of healing over many Decembers.

Got Milk? by SomnophiliaSweetheart - E, one-shot - Hermione wants Draco to surprise her down her chimney dressed as Santa. What was meant to be a silly Santa roleplay quickly gets out of hand when he mistakes the "milk" left out for Santa.

Remember Me By Christmas by vinewrappeddragon - M, one-shot - When a spell goes wrong during Auror training, Draco loses six years of memories - including his entire relationship with Hermione. As Christmas approaches, Hermione must watch the man she loves look at her like a stranger, while Draco struggles with memories that feel like someone else's life. With a ring hidden in his sock drawer and a proposal planned for Christmas Eve, can they find their way back to each other before the holidays? Or will they have to fall in love all over again?

Sweet Tempered by vinewrappeddragon - M, one-shot - When his pastry chef quits three weeks before Christmas, Michelin-starred Chef Draco Malfoy doesn't expect to find her replacement in a corporate lawyer turned culinary school graduate. But Hermione Granger brings more than just perfect chocolate work to his kitchen - she brings innovation, challenge, and a determination to prove that sometimes the best traditions are the ones you create yourself.

Golden Balls by VintageCherry - M, one-shot - Draco loses his golden balls. - or - Draco wakes up to his balls missing and enlist the help of his wife and their friends to find the missing family jewels, which starts with walking around the house naked, traumatizing Harry, and making flyers.

If you really want to know by mischiefmandied - E, one-shot - It's Christmas Eve. Hermione just needs to finish closing Florish and Blotts for the day so she can get ready for Molly Weasley's Christmas feast. Except now, she's snowed in. With her coworker.

Mistletoe Kisses Don't Count by Crymsy - G, one-shot - A little Christmas one-shot/drabble to accompany my Christmas kisses drawings. Or where the mistletoe tradition is thrust upon the Dramione / Nottlock ship.

What We Carried Here by Serpent_Sortia - T, one-shot - The books looked older, untouched, their spines cracked and coated in dust. Yet they didn’t feel forgotten. They felt alive. _ Or, in the stillness of the days between Christmas and New Year’s, Hermione Granger finds herself drawn to the library. She doesn’t expect to find Draco Malfoy there, nor does she expect the strange, hidden section of the library that reveals memories long buried. Together, they uncover fragments of their pasts, facing the weight of what they’ve carried and the scars left behind.

It’s Christmas Eve My Love by her_beautifulidiot - G, WIP - Draco and Hermione at Malfoy Manor on Christmas Eve.

The Christmas Nanny by vinewrappeddragon - T, one-shot - When widower CEO Draco Malfoy interviews his fourteenth potential nanny, he expects another disaster. What he gets instead is Hermione Granger: doctoral student, temporary solution, and the woman who might just help him and his son learn to live again. Between Christmas pageants, memory books, and matching mugs, professional boundaries never stood a chance.

Unravelled by lemoneide - E, one-shot - After losing a dare, Draco wakes up with an enchanted ribbon on his cock right before an important meeting. What happens when Granger notices his afflicted state and wants to help?

An only child’s issue at Christmas by Imreadingforever - not rated, one-shot - Two loners found each other before Christmas Eve and started a conversation.

Winter Means Nothing (Without You) by nicolawritesdrh - T, one-shot - “I can’t be the one that makes you miss Christmas with your parents year after year,” she whispered, a tear slipping from the corner of her eye. “Bullshit, Hermione!” Draco exploded, his emotions giving in to the fear that was creeping into his veins. “Winter means nothing without you.” -- Draco's first Christmas back with his parents after his breakup with Hermione is as miserable as the weather outside.

Masks & Masquerades by vinewrappeddragon - E, one-shot - When Hermione attends a Winter Solstice Masquerade to escape her frustrating job, she doesn't expect to meet a mysterious stranger who makes her forget all her responsibilities for one perfect night. A week later, while investigating a case of magical fraud at Malfoy Enterprises, she realizes her masked stranger and her prime suspect might be one and the same. But with corporate conspiracies, stolen identities, and hidden agendas at play, the truth behind both mysteries proves more complex than she imagined.

#christmas #dramione

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1mlostnow · 5 months ago

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BIRD LORE

Stevie ‘Bird’ Corcoran was born to Lillian and David on November 2nd, 1978. He grew up in a three bedroom apartment with his two brothers and two sisters in Seattle, Washington.

Physical description-> stevie is blonde with wavy hair that he wears in a mullet. He’s got hazel eyes, he’s 5’10, he’s got snakebite piercings, and a scar covering the left side of his face.

Backstory -> TW SH/SA/Neglect/Abuse -> Stevie’s mother, Lillian, left after the twin girls, Emma and Lilly (1985), were born. Their financial situation was already bad, but David completely denied their struggles and continued to spend like it was nothing. This forced the two eldest, Mikey (1976) and Stevie, to have to steal food for their other siblings. Danny (1979) was usually in charge of watching the twins. When they were old enough to stay home on their own, because there was no way David would be trusted to watch them (he acted like a teenager, he’d have his loud friends over until late hours watching football and playing poker). When they could stay on their own, Mikey and Stevie brought Danny on one of their ‘shopping trips’ but he tripped and fell, getting the three of them caught. Stevie stayed behind and took the fall while his brothers ran, and he was taken in by police (he was 17). David picked him up and kicked him out of the apartment. He moved in with Gabi and her parents for the remainder of his senior year of high school. During this stage of his life he was incredibly depressed and used sh to cope. This would go on for a while, even as he worked at PPTH. He had earned enough in scholarships and outside work that he was able to entirely afford to earn his bachelors and PhD at University of Washington, where he got…fruity…with his roomate, who dropped out after two months. -> During his time there, he met Lauren at a bar one night. He was drunk, feeling a hell of a lot of internalized homophobia, and decided to go home with her to “fix himself”. He changed his mind when they got there but she wouldn’t listen and he could hardly stand on his own. So he let her do whatever. She became pregnant with Anna, and they got married, because that’s how he was raised. -> Lauren and 4 year old Anna attended Stevie’s final graduation where he earned his PhD, and he informed her that he wanted a divorce. As soon as that went through, he moved to New Jersey. He got a job at PPTH in the forensics department, and he was informed on his first day that the department head had quit, moving him up to the position. -> Gabi moved up there soon after and they moved into a duplex together. He wasn’t in much contact with any of his siblings besides Mikey, but he occasionally gets Christmas cards from the others.

Workplace relationships and dynamics (still editing) ->

Emilie -> they have breakfast 😋😋

Cosmo -> acquaintances, they bring each other food

Syd -> Cousins :D

Hen -> like surrogate father type thing

Teagan -> yappers 😮‍💨

Reina -> she and Anna are besties

Ev -> boyfriends 😝

Flux -> they’re friends :) flux has been trying to tell him for years that he’s probably bi at the least.

I think he’s also close with Danny, Bruce, and Andy, and they’re what he’d consider his friend group. Also—zombiebusters!

This will be edited!! Also lmk if there’s typos 😝 or if sm doesn’t make sense

#evan speaks #house md #housemdoc #house md oc #house md fandom #gregory house #oc #oc lore #bird corcoran #head of forensics #guyssss #look

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velvetstrorm · 1 year ago

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Fresh Start

Jeb Pyre × Reader

Summary: After shutting the case of the Lafferty brothers, Jeb finds it difficult to find his place in the church - so much so that he divorces his wife and starts anew in Boulder, Colorado. What he didn't expect was a pretty evidence handler at the Boulder PD.

(Please note that in this story Jeb has no children.)

Word count: 3,381

Warnings: mentions of religion, swearing, a bit steamy but nothing explicit

After shutting the case, Jeb tried his best to re-integrate into his community. To at least "sing the song", even if he no longer believed the words, as his partner suggested - but he was still eyed with suspicion and the forceful kindness of his fellow churchgoers became sickening. He felt as if he was tested, and they pressured him into recanting his beliefs at every opportunity. It was the worst with his wife who got him promising he'd stay faithful to the church whenever she felt uneasy, which was more often than he liked. He could see her mind turn whenever they were in the same room as if he was under constant surveillance. It angered him, but he knew showing it would throw him into a pit even deeper.

Things in the bedroom were terrible. Beca was insistent on conceiving, and he didn't blame her for it. He knew what it meant to her. Still, he was growing tired of having sex - a thing which he'd never thought was possible for a man. Somehow, whatever trick or new lingerie his wife would try just made him desire her even less. Whenever he couldn't perform, he'd blame it on work, but that opened a whole can of worms he didn't want to talk about. Arguments were frequent and even calm days were disturbed at least by a quarrel.

He got out when his mother passed. By then, the tension was palpable, not only in his marriage, but in the church. Eyes were even wider and glued to him - they expected him to turn to his faith in a time of need as such.

But he finally felt free. He divorced his wife, leaving her in shame, and the bishop was quick to retaliate by excommunicating him.

He was finally free.

He moved to Boulder, Colorado, to escape his own home, the cocoon. It was only natural that Taba followed him.

'You could stay, you know?' Jeb said one day as they were having lunch together. He bought fries.

'And be left in the snake pit alone? Not a chance.'

It made Jeb smile. He'd never conceal the amount of relief this gave him. Because he was afraid. As much as he wanted to get out, the newness of the "outside world" scared him. To have his friend by his side on this new journey gave him hope.

They both got a job at the Boulder Police Department and Jeb quickly became a favourite among his superiors and fellow officers. With no family and a pain to drown, he was always first to apply for night shifts, weekends, especially holidays. He poured his all into work.

'You are becoming a bit of a workaholic,' Bill noted on one Christmas Eve. There was a snowstorm outside, unlike anything else he had seen in Utah.

'You are here with me every time,' Jeb pointed out, watching the wind raging outside.

'Yes, but I'm not staying overtime,' his partner adjusted himself in his seat. It was getting to him not being able to smoke because of the crazy weather. 'Besides, you're young. You should find yourself someone.'

'I have you.'

'I'm flattered, but I don't like you like that,' Taba chuckled but was met with the mortified stare of his fellow detective. A lifetime of conditioning is difficult to weed out.

'What I'm saying is,' he started again. 'This is a new town. Maybe there's someone who tickles your fancy.'

Jeb honestly doubted that. He didn't find anyone interesting, and even if he had, he wouldn't be ready to open up.

That was until you came along.

You were the new evidence handler, archiving and organising everything the officers brought along, let it be testimonies or physical evidence. You were young and sweet which didn't sit right with him: he didn't want you to look at all the darkness that was out there in the world. He reckoned you should be protected from it, living in a bubble, not having your delicate features be degraded away by the horrors.

But above all, you were incredibly attractive. He saw other police officers trying to charm you or readily offer their help whenever there was an evidence box that "looked a little too heavy". Even Bill got into a harmless banter with you on occasion - you were easy on the eyes, he said, and Jeb agreed, though not out loud.

He could feel his heart in his throat whenever you passed by, and there was an uncomfortable feeling in his stomach whenever you arrived at work. Looking at you felt like a sin.

It just so happened that the two of you were very similar. Even if it meant staying longer, you'd get all the handwritten notes typed in, each piece of evidence filed away correctly. Before leaving, you cleaned your desk, despite it being a catastrophe the whole day.

It was a Thursday night and the detective was about to leave to check out a crime scene. On his way out, he spotted you, at your desk, still lost in paperwork. He checked the clock and then outside: it was already dark.

'It's getting late,' he announced as he stepped to you.

'Oh, it's alright,' you shrugged. 'Just a few more things to file away.'

He contemplated for a second before turning to a young officer:

'Deputy Jones, when Miss Y/L/N is done with her work could you give her a ride home?'

'That's really not necessary,' you knew you were blushing and you didn't want to cause any trouble to anyone.

''Course, Sir,' Deputy Jones said without hesitation. Jeb nodded to the deputy and left you with an "Evening" and completely confused.

That night, he could not sleep. He worried you might not have been escorted home, or worse, took a liking to the young deputy. He should've taken you home himself.

Even though he was head over heels for you, you got the impression that he did not like you. He was cold, distant and you'd never seen him smile in your presence. When he dropped off any evidence, he seemed as though he was trying to escape the soonest possible.

'Five forged checks and interrogation of two witnesses,' you scanned through the documents on your desk, then flashed a warm smile at him. 'Anything else?'

'No, thank you,' he replied quickly, his mouth more crooked than ever.

You watched him walk to his office. It was a shame, really, upsetting, even. For one, you never gave any reason for him to hate you, and besides… You found him incredibly handsome.

He was eyeing you from his office, sometimes glancing in the direction of Jones, even though it was a few weeks after that incident. Jeb made it a point to avoid you, but couldn't fool his partner.

'I don't blame you for liking her,' he flipped the page in the folder of their current case. 'I would be surprised if you didn't.'

'I've never felt this way,' Jeb admitted nervously. His friend had a smug grin on his face before it turned serious.

'Look, you should make your move soon. Nobody is blind in this department.'

It was this conversation that ultimately pushed him to ask you out. It was a few days later, and all of your colleagues had left already. You were still finishing up some tasks and he tried to do his own, but his nerves wouldn't let him concentrate. Finally, he gave in.

'Are you staying for longer?' Jeb had to swallow for he felt like his throat was going to close up.

'No, I'm packing away for tonight.'

'Do you… Need a ride home?' He asked, then quickly added: 'I can take you.'

'Oh, I… Don't wanna cause you any trouble,' you chuckled nervously and pushed the last folder to its place.

'I insist.'

'Well, okay,' you gave in sheepishly and grabbed your coat.

The drive home was even more awkward, if possible. You tried to strike up a conversation but he hardly replied. He sat stiffly behind the wheel and kept his eyes on the road. He parked just outside your apartment complex.

'You know, Detective Pyre, you don't have to take me home.'

'I just like to know you're safe.'

'Anyway,' you said quickly over the sound of your loud heartbeat. 'Thank you for the ride.'

You were about to step out of the car when he blurted out:

'Can I take you out for dinner sometime?'

You turned back and were muted by surprise.

'You can say no if you don't want to,' he felt as if he was being suffocated by his own tie so he pulled it looser.

'Yes,' you hurried your answer. 'This Saturday?'

'Perfect. Pick you up at 7.'

Friday, he was a mess. If it was possible, he avoided contact with you even more which left you doubting he ever asked you out. The truth was, he didn't know how to react. You made him feel such emotions he was unfamiliar with; was he supposed to just wave at you as he passed by when he felt his insides burning with the heat of a thousand suns?

'Bill, I need your help,' Jeb closed the door of their office behind him. 'I'm taking Y/N on a date tomorrow.'

'Does she know?' His partner teased, but as Jeb replied with such exasperation, he knew this was no time for jokes.

'Of course!'

'So you finally asked her out. What do you need me for?'

'I'm nervous,' he leant to his desk and pulled his hand across his face. 'I can't even look at her.'

Bill glanced out towards you: 'I think she looks pretty, still.'

'Don't do that,' his friend begged defeatedly.

'Jeb,' Bill looked at him. 'Do me a favour and relax. Just be yourself.'

'What if the church thing freaks her out? What if I make a fool of myself?'

'There's no way around it, pal,' he shrugged. 'Sooner or later, she will know. Don't worry, I haven't seen her eat anyone. Try and enjoy it.'

It was easier said than done.

Jeb knew he was done for right as he picked you up on Saturday. You had a black dress on that hugged your body, and your shoulders were bare for you had your hair in a bun. Inside of him was a raging battle between what his former church made him think about your attire and what he felt. He was hoping he could forget about both, and most importantly not mention his past, but it was unavoidable.

'No, I… I have never drunk.'

'You haven't?' You asked in disbelief. 'Surely you were a teenager at some point.'

'Yeah,' he chuckled. 'I grew up in a very strict church. Alcohol was forbidden.'

'So it wasn't the kinda wine tasting that disguised itself as Sunday church, huh?' You joked. 'Are you still part of this church? Should I not drink?'

'No, no,' he shook his head. 'I was excommunicated. I no longer hold those beliefs.'

'So…' you swirled the wine around in your glass. 'Why don't you drink?'

'I guess old habits die hard.'

'Do you want a taste? It's sweet wine. If you like lemonade, you're gonna love this.'

You held your glass towards him and he took you up on your offer. His movements were sheepish, almost fearful as he held the glass to his lips and took a small sip. It really was sugary, with an uncanny resemblance to the way he felt about you: sweet but intoxicating. Throughout the dinner you shared a few glasses, most of which you drank, but he was finally easing up by the alcohol. Jeb felt his stomach warm from the wine; he was more comfortable with his feelings towards you, while also finding it harder to keep them in control. Your eyes seemed even more alluring and your cheeks were tinted red from the alcohol. He found it cute and smiled dumbly at you throughout the whole night; and honestly, with him opening up, you really enjoyed yourself. Not only that, you realised that you did actually like him: he was kind and wholesome and made such intelligent remarks you knew he was listening to your every word. You joked and gently poked his hand and his eyes lit up like a teenage boy's. He tried to (very seriously) pick out the notes of the wine, only to add at the end that it mostly just smelled like alcohol. He accidentally kicked you under the table and you teased him whether you were getting friendly.

You had your fingers crossed that the effects of the wine would stretch into the workdays.

But apparently, you spoke too soon.

'Thank you for the night, Jeb, I really enj…' you could barely open your mouth when he stopped the car at your home, and his lips were on yours. His left hand came up from the gearshift to cup your face as his quick, eager kiss was followed by a deeper one. You leant closer to him and rested your hand on his thigh. You got so lost in the sensations (the scent of his cologne, how his tongue explored your mouth against yours, or how it ran across your lips every once in a while), that you didn't know how much time had passed. Was it minutes or half an hour?

'I'm sorry,' he broke away abruptly. 'I can't do this.'

You couldn't really comprehend his words.

'I… I don't think I'm ready for this,' he followed, seeing your puzzled expression.

'We can take it slower,' you chuckled.

'It's not about that,' his body was turned away from you. 'I can't be with you.'

Honestly, this left you in shock. You don't remember if you said anything or just left the car - the whole thing didn't make sense. He was the one asking you out, the date went well, he came in for a kiss… Which was amazing.

You were confused, and above all, hurt. You thought that there must've been something so wrong with you for him to turn you down like this.

When Jeb told Bill about the date, his friend's first excitement died away as he heard how the night ended.

'What's wrong with you?' Bill asked, almost angrily. 'That date was going great and you chose to close it like a teen girl who hasn't fucked before?'

'Language!' The other hissed.

'That girl likes you. You come to me worried you'd screw up the date but you did it in such a way I would've never imagined.'

'It's not easy, Bill. I was raised to believe everything I've just done is a sin. Even though I no longer think the same, I…' he ran his fingers through his hair. 'Can't help but feel that it's wrong.'

His partner seized him up, sighing out the frustration he felt.

'I guess I understand. You do what you feel comfortable with. But she'd be good for you.'

But would I be good for her - Jeb pondered, staring at the papers in front of him.

That was until an office party: his colleagues pressured him into beer after beer, so he'd already had more than he should've. Then, you arrived - late, but no less beautiful. The cream dress you had on was a lot more modest than the form-fitting one you had on during the date, yet its satin fabric draped on your body perfectly. You looked better than ever, which he never thought was possible: your smile was charming and your eyes twinkled in the decorative lights - though he couldn't help but notice that you carefully avoided his direction.

The other officers were quick to bring you your favourite drink and they'd made it a competition who would make you laugh louder. Hearing your chuckles turned his blood bitter, and he kept shifting between chewing the inside of his mouth and adjusting his lips.

'And you, Detective Pyre? Anyone special?' A fellow officer asked.

'Who? Me?' He said, half-stupefied, then chuckled, his eyes on the table. 'No, no one.'

To be fair, since the failed date, you had been avoiding him just as he did with you. You gave a cryptic description of the date to your friends, and your colleagues knew nothing of the encounter: they merely concluded that Jeb's past hunted him, and that's why he was so uncomfortable in your presence.

Maybe they were closer to the truth than anyone thought.

You accompanied some officers out for a cigarette; you were craving some fresh air and the cold of the night on your cheeks. You borrowed a cigarette from Detective Taba to take the edge off.

'You, dear, look prettier every day,' he took a long drag from his cigarette after lighting yours. 'Is there a gentleman you saw before coming here?'

'Nah,' you smiled sheepishly as if the suggestion itself was ridiculous. 'I was looking after an old relative and my cousin arrived late to take over.'

'Don't act so innocent,' he scorned with a grin and gestured with his cigarette. 'I bet you make every man turn anywhere you walk by.'

He wasn't wrong: you only had to take some letters to the post office to come back with a date for the next day, but lately, all you had on your mind was the kiss from a certain detective. Even at work, especially after seeing him, your thoughts would slip from your grip to morph into his firm grip on your waist or the unmatching tenderness of his lips. You'd mistyped witness names and found that you had catalogued a set of crime scene photographs into the wrong folder. You were incredibly embarrassed, despite the officers only laughing at these mishaps, reassuring you that they happened more often than ever with you.

So, you avoided Jeb's eyes, knowing that their dark brown colour would melt you right on sight.

Even though Bill was nudging him every ten minutes to go up to you, Jeb couldn't bring himself to do it. All night, he had been imagining how your dress would fall from your shoulders if he'd unzipped it and how soft your skin would feel under it - softer than the satin itself, he was sure.

The air of the venue grew heavy with each passing minute. Jeb resolved to peel the stickers from the beers, while you were constantly entertained by at least two of your coworkers. They were all respectful, although sometimes a bit loud. You needed a few moments of peace; so you excused yourself to the bathroom.

Once on your way back, you bumped into him.

'Hey,' you forced a smile.

'How you're doing?'

'Good, good. And you?'

'Pretty wasted,' Jeb admitted with a chuckle and after a brief pause (during which he stared long into your eyes and your legs began to feel like jello), he brushed a few hairs that got stuck in your mouth behind your ear. You got a whiff of his cologne, something you only caught once or twice when he brought evidence bags to your table. It always left you spellbound.

'I'm so sorry about that night.'

'Don't be,' you said. 'It was an amazing date.'

Jeb was only half-there, his thumb brushed the edge of your lip.

'Until the end I suppose,' he said dreamily, as if not even to you.

'Do you like me?' You asked abruptly.

'I'm fucking mad about you.'

His answer threw your head in a spin. You grabbed his tie and pulled him into a kiss which he reciprocated with a groan. His hands quickly found the small of your back from which one ran up into your hair. Unconsciously, he gripped a handful of your locks to pull your head back and give him better access to your lips. You were rendered weak with a wave of emotion but this very same thing reminded you where you were and that any second colleague could appear.

You cupped his face and gently pulled away.

'Maybe this is not the best place…'

'No, it isn't,' he agreed. 'I want to make it up to you. Please, let me take you on another date.'

'I'm free on Sunday.'

'Well, not anymore.'

#jeb pyre x reader #jeb pyre #utboh #under the banner of heaven #andrew garfield #andrew garfield x reader #reader insert #jeb pyre imagine #andrew garfield imagine

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decks-writing-blog · 27 days ago

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Here to Stay Drabbles: A Waste of Time

Summary: Bubby sneaks into the Black Mesa Christmas Eve party.

Technically Bubby wasn’t allowed to leave the lab part of the facility or even the specific lab they’d made him in. But he’d long since stopped giving a damn about any of that. They could take their rules and shove them up their collective ass. He was smarter than all of them, they made him that way on purpose so it was their own fault he was so good at outsmarting them.

Despite how long he’d held that stance for, this was his first time venturing into the living quarters part of the facility. Why would he care about the living situation of all the ‘real’ people when he had his own things to worry about? But the labs basically emptied for a handful of days every year. The longest stretch of which was always for Christmas. Bubby still didn’t particularly care but he was curious and this year, bored enough to investigate. And, more importantly, he could so he was going to.

The annual Christmas party that he always overheard so much inane chatter about was set in the central communal area. Right where one would expect it to be. In the center, drawing immediate attention as Bubby snuck in, was a large evergreen tree covered in multi-colored lights and shiny bobbles. On top was a glittering gold star. Shiny tinsel and more lights were hung up around the rest of the room, hung up on the walls and other plants.

Lots of people milled around, spread out enough to make the whole room looked crowded and creating a murmur of conversation that almost drowned out the jingly music playing over unseen speakers. None of them were in uniform and some wore garish clothing that made them fit right in with the decorations surrounding them. Whether this many people hanging out here was normal or just for the holiday was hard to say. The amount of them was for sure due to the holiday though since no one had to go to work. Lucky bastards. Bubby didn’t have to work either but he was expected to stay in the lab.

His curiosity was satisfied though. Christmas was just one big party with gaudy decorations. One he wasn’t invited to so why should he care about it? He turned around and…

“Not big on the whole Christmas thing, huh?”

Bubby turned to see someone he’d never met before. That being the case he was likely assuming Bubby was a ‘real’ person – a common mistake that Bubby never bothered to dissuade anyone on – and that that’s why he was coming over to talk. In casual clothing, it was impossible to tell what role he served within the facility. Not that it mattered, Bubby was smarter than him regardless.

“It’s a waste of time.” Bubby put as much bite into his tone as he could. He’d overheard one too many conversations about Christmas and the big Christmas Eve party to want to bother with engaging in one personally. He’d seen it now and that’s all he needed or wanted.

They guy didn’t look least bit put off though. “Exactly! We could be working on something important but instead we’re expected to hang around here chatting and partying. I’m not high enough yet to have much weight to through around but once I am, because trust me, I’m on my way up, I’m going to insist this break not be mandatory. I mean all the other major religious holidays out there don’t get nearly as much leeway, why should Christmas? I’m Arne Magnusson by the way.” He held out a hand for Bubby to shake.

With an inward shrug, Bubby accepted it. Magnusson’s grip was firm, the shake quick and business like, no time wasted in treating it like a dominance thing. “Bubby.”

As was always the case when Bubby shared his name, Magnusson’s face scrunched up a bit. “That a name you chose for yourself or did your parents name you that?”

“My parents.” A lie, he didn’t even have parents. His creators had chosen it for him based off his experiment serial number though.

“Ah, I see.” And just like that the judgment was shifted to Bubby’s fictional parents. “What department do you work in? If you’re allowed to say, anyway. I’m currently working on something classified, myself.”

“Rocket science.” Another lie but of all the stuff he knew, rockets and space travel had always been the most interesting subject. “I’m not allowed to say more than that, however.” He didn’t know enough about what the real rocket science team was specifically up to to make his lie believable if he went into detail.

Magnusson nodded as if he understood. “Well, I suppose if we’re forced to be here, it nice to finally find someone else who isn’t into all this nonsense.”

Bubby couldn’t necessarily relate on the ‘finally’ part but someone else being grumpy about it was kind of neat. Maybe he’d stick around here for a little bit longer after all so he could complain some more with someone who also wanted to complain.

#hlvrai #half life #here to stay drabbles #bubby #arne magnusson

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aydaptic · 1 year ago

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Do you have any headcanons for Gavin and Tina’s friendship ex. How they met, what they do in their spare time etc

Most of my headcanons are probably in my written works, but I sure don't mind sharing them here as well :)

1. Gav and Ti's Friendship

I like to think that they met in Law School and that Ti is a couple years younger. After all, she's a patrol officer, while Gav is of a higher rank. Either she's taking it slow or she's "fresh from the academy" like Chris.

There's something pure about someone having been in Gav's life for a longer time than most and still being on friendly terms. He's canonically described as having "garnered the hatred of his colleagues in record time," and yet, Ti hangs out with him... so maybe since she already knew him, she knows how much fun he is. Enough to gladly put up with his BS.

I imagine that Gav was somewhat of a wildcard back in the day bc of his extroverted nature. One that would shotgun beers and jump into pools. Meanwhile, Ti was the sensible one. She was his designated driver and stuff like that. Hell, I refer to her as Gav's "impulse control" in Adapt & Endure. Neil Newbon headcanons that he's the nicest guy at a party, so funnily enough, it adds up.

I like the idea of them reminiscing about those days as he's very career-driven now.

2. What Gav and Ti Do in Their Spare Time

Frankly, I don't think Gav does much outside of work. Aside from canonically starting fights at bars bc he "can't keep his mouth shut." I imagine he goes to a shooting range and works on his physique. No hobbies. Bc of his fit shape, I'm convinced he cooks his own food instead of grabbing a lot of takeaway. I think he participates in one-night stands on occasion bc he feels he doesn't have time for a relationship. Gives me the vibe that he takes good care of his car and has skills in the mechanic department, too. Just the idea of him fixing up a damaged Niner makes me happy.

As for Ti? Idk why, but I always headcanoned her as very tech-savvy. That she took a bachelor's degree in Computer Science or something before becoming an officer/during initiation. Probably bc she's a tomboy.

I imagine they go out for drinks together when they have spare time. I've never been a fan of celebrations like Christmas, so I'm biased... but I like to think they only really celebrate New Year's Eve in the simplest way possible: grabbing drinks.

#dbh #gavin reed #tina chen #reed900 #detroit: become human #dbh gavin #dbh tina #long post #Q&A #anonymous #*aydaptic

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sizzlingpatrolfox · 11 months ago

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i know there's a picture somewhere out there that has gotten lost to time with jimin and his mom walking in a street arm in arm and someone said they met him at the theater and they went to watch spiderman so around 2017. there was also that older actor fan of jimin saying he met jimin and his mom eating lunch in seoul. then there were the sightings of him and his mom and brother in gwangu visiting family when they were on break in 2019 (without his dad). i think his parents just visited him separately a lot because they both work and it's difficult to find time to be together all at once. or they're divorced, who knows. he did mention that he was alone a lot as a kid (probably middle school age) too.

Yeah, I was thinking about the time he was seen with his mom and brother. I remember something about them travelling but I wasn't sure so I didn't bring it up.

We don't really know what his mom does.

When he said that he was usually alone during Christmas I thought it made sense because his dad used to have a restaurant before magnate, and those type of places are usually open during holidays, especially in cities like Seoul. Some members of my family own a grocery store and they're always open during Christmas and New year's eve, they literally arrive to the family dinner at 23:30 because they're working until that time. So, having in mind that his parents allegedly already owned a business before, and that his dad is at magnate like every day even tho he can afford more employees, I always assumed that his parents worked in the food/ essential goods department and it was reason he was alone during Christmas.

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themculibrary · 11 months ago

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Hurt!Stephen Masterlist

A Perfect Body to the Grave (ao3) - HithertoUndreamtOf G, 465

Summary: Stephen gets kidnapped and buried alive by a group of other-dimensional beings.

A Strange Christmas Carol (ao3) - HithertoUndreamtOf T, 11k

Summary: A retelling of the classic A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens.

Stephen Strange is visited by three ghosts that teach him the value of teamwork and self-preservation, all while finding the joy in Christmas again.

each night like a white noise frequency (ao3) - Phierie tony/stephen M, 8k

Summary: Stephen is no stranger to making hard choices. He doesn’t regret his actions on Titan, but months later they weigh on his mind heavier than ever; the cracks begin to show.

Even Abraxas got Cornered (ao3) - HithertoUndreamtOf G, 3k

Summary: On a hunt to find the Talisman of Abraxas, Stephen quickly learns that he shouldn't have underestimated his enemies.

Every Scar Tells a Story (ao3) - HithertoUndreamtOf G, 699

Summary: Stephen's collection of scars over the years, some of which may not be physical.

Hold Me Still (ao3) - lantia4ever tony/stephen T, 10k

Summary: Just days away from Christmas Eve, duty calls for the newly allied Sorcerers and Avengers. As Stephen departs with Tony to tackle the threat, one wrong step later he realizes the alliance might be quite short-lived.

But one should never underestimate the force that is Tony Stark.

I missed you (ao3) - DarkKitty1208 tony/stephen G, 4k

Summary: What he pulled out was nothing close to his expectations. A single piece of cloth, likely ripped off of Stephen’s ridiculous wizard get-up, but it wasn’t just that. Blood splattered and seeped into it, a unique blend of the blue in his robes with a heavy tint of red, the smell coming out of it leaving him sick to the stomach.

i’ve always known in the end, i’d be sorry (ao3) - rainbowsponge mj/peter 14k

Summary: After the world forgot Peter Parker, one man remembered. Peter is in desperate need of anyone and Stephen Strange has no idea how to be a dad.

Light is Dark and Dark is Light (ao3) - HithertoUndreamtOf T, 3k

Summary: Stephen gets mistaken as the Sorcerer Supreme in battle and used as a lab rat.

Love Never Dies (ao3) - Blondie2000 wanda/stephen M, 4k

Summary: She places her hand on his chest. Her touch causes him to shiver. He knows he should pull away but as each second passed he found himself being drawn to her. Her words had a affect on him, made him see everything from a new perspective. He has been alone for so long the need for company suddenly consumed him.

Strange smiles and draws Wanda in for a kiss

Only When I Sleep (ao3) - Laily loki/tony/stephen G, 1k

Summary: Stephen is at the end of his wits trying to convince Loki to love him. Tony tries to help.

Puppet of Agony (ao3) - Kenobi1 T, 10k

Summary: How much does it take to break the unbreakable? Stephen Strange thought he knew pain until he met Ebony Maw. He was wrong, and suddenly death seems more forgiving than life. He knows he can’t survive the unimaginable horrors on his own, so he’s lucky he has some friends to help him out. Based off the Infinity War trailer. Warning: torture.

Siblings (ao3) - KuroPlayer tony/stephen G, 1k

Summary: Stephen was reminded of his siblings and Tony comforted him.

Survivors of the Wreck of Time (ao3) - amethyst-noir (Arbonne) tony/stephen T, 16k

Summary: Stephen had been in love with Tony Stark for so long, and through so many different timelines, that the feeling had become a fixed part of his being, something that was just there, fully intertwined with his very soul. Something that was treasured, something that gave him strength and comfort when he needed it, something he held close to his heart without even consciously being aware of it.

(Sometimes a timeline has to bend and twist to make things that are supposed to be happen.)

Unceasing (ao3) - Mcufaninmydreams tony/stephen M, 668

Summary: Stephen Strange has been held captive by Thanos for as far back as he can remember. He cannot think back very far, not when metal scrapes the insides of his bones and his arms are forever bound in mystical chains.

When The Maw finds out Dr. Strange was once a neurosurgeon, he comes up with an enjoyable new way to hurt the man.

under dust and rubble (ao3) - DarkKitty1208 tony/stephen G, 2k

Summary: It happened so quickly. One slip and they're suddenly trapped under fallen rubble, unable to escape, so close to each other that their knees are touching and their breaths are mingling with the other's; Tony's surprised they aren't dead or crushed under already. Stephen doesn't currently have his sling ring in hand, and neither of them could blast their way out as doing so will only cause the debris to fall and crush them. They are painfully aware of the fact that the only way for them to even survive this is to wait until help arrives.

Basically, they're stuck.

when we have each other, we have everything (ao3) - IronMum tony/stephen G, 61k

Summary: “Take it from the top. Tell me everything,” Stephen inquired as he took the seat opposite, hands steepled together and lightly pressed against his chin.

“Got a distress call from Peter’s suit. Tracked him down but couldn’t connect to his AI. Arrived on the scene to find exhibit A: tiny child, tangled up in the Stark Suit. Kid says he’s Peter Parker and the scans confirm it. Short Stuff just got shorter.” Or… Tony and Stephen go from snarky acquaintances to friends to idiot dads who clearly love each other whilst solving the mystery of a de-aged Peter.

#themculibrary #marvel #mcu #doctor strange #masterlists #stephen strange #hurt!stephen #hurt!stephen masterlist #injury

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nancypullen · 1 year ago

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I Lost My Mind

Sorry that I dropped off the face of the Earth for a bit. I have been in a holiday frenzy. I mentioned that I'll be flying down to visit my mom in Florida for a few days. What I did not consider is that taking a chunk out of the middle of December would send me into hyper-holiday prep. I felt like I needed to have EVERYTHING done before departing on the 12th. Ev-er-y-thing. So I put my head down and trimmed the tree, decorated the house, shopped, wrapped, wrote and addressed cards, wrapped some more, baked and baked, and finally checked the last task (packing and mailing a box) off my list. When I return home on the 17th my biggest worry will be preparing for the Christmas meal. I'll have a handful of days to panic. We may have tacos for Christmas dinner if I drop the ball.

youtube

The mister had mentioned making the hour long drive up to Christiana Mall in Delaware earlier this week. I told him that if I could get everything done on my list, I could go on Thursday. I worked like a mad woman so I could go to that damn mall. I used to take malls for granted, then I moved to Dogpatch. So I met my self-imposed deadline (the last cookie was packaged at 7pm on Wednesday night) and went to bed with a heating pad and visions of shopping dancing in my head. I was not disappointed. It turned into the best day! The most wonderful part? It snowed on us! All the way to Newark we were treated to this:

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I can't even tell you how happy it made me. After our snowy trip we walked into the mall and right into a giant Barnes and Noble. Man, have I missed browsing in a brick and mortar bookstore. I made a wish list a mile long. *sigh*

Mickey and I split up and I visited Lush and bought a couple of sparkly bath bombs for my favorite 5 year old, walked a couple of stores down and picked up a little something for my sister's upcoming birthday, browsed in Pottery Barn and Williams Sonoma (swoon!), and put some mileage on my shoes poking around in numerous other shops. It was such fun, I felt like an Amish girl on rumspringa. We met for a quick lunch and then headed off to the local Trader Joe's for a few things. We didn't have snow on the way home, but at least the car smelled good from that sack of bath bombs. Tomorrow I'm volunteering at the Friends of the Library booth at Winterfest. I think I'm running the Pin the Nose on the Snowman game. I doubt it will compete with all of the bouncy houses and big stuff, but hopefully some little bookworms will find us. After the festival I'll once again become a crazy lady, cleaning this house top to bottom and getting packed for the trip. I want to come home on the night of the 17th to a house that doesn't need a thing, because we'll be hurtling right into Christmas. Note to self: never again travel in December. I know I'll have a ball in Florida. I wanted to see my mom before I start the library job and lose the freedom to travel whenever I want (I've forgotten what it's like to ask for time off!). My sister is going to join us and we'll be able to celebrate her birthday on the 15th. It'll be good for all of us, some girl time. And that, my friends, explains my absence. I'm a one-woman holiday crew. The house is pretty, the tree is sparkling, gifts are purchased, wrapped, and tagged, cookies are baked, cards are mailed, and this elf is done. Well, I say one-woman, but I am never alone. Someone is always there, watching.

See her in there, just behind the white and gold bow? I can't keep her out of there. At least she doesn't climb it. I'll try to write a bit more tomorrow, I think I'll actually have a little time. I may tromp around in the woods and look for some greenery to cut. I want to make a festive swag to hang over those ugly blinds.

Hmmm. Maybe not. Looks a little too busy. Maybe some light garland. Whatever, it's not like we're on the Christmas home tour. Until tomorrow (I hope), I hope that you're enjoying every bright and shiny bit of this season. Turn on some holiday tunes and boogie your way through your chores. That's what keeps me going.

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Stay safe, stay well, stay jolly! XOXO, Nancy

#Youtube

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sociologyontherock · 14 days ago

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For Vince Walsh

By Linda Cohen

My husband Tim and I were travelling during the celebration of Vince’s life and couldn’t make it home in time, but we spent hours on the road reminiscing. Tim has so many stories going back to their teen years, including a trip to Toronto to look for work. As the oldest, Vince took charge and found an apartment and employers who hired on the spot. He knew what it meant to be a “migrant worker.”

Vincent Walsh

My memories “only” go back 40 or so years, to our early twenties. Vince was one of the few M.A. graduate students in my MUN cohort, he in anthropology and I in sociology. Our departments worked closely together at that time and we took many of the same courses. A favourite was Louis Chiaramonte’s “photography as fieldwork” course: our projects were hilarious! Documenting how we made wine and beer were favourite topics. We also worked together one summer. We were both hired as fieldworkers to go to Lark Harbour (NL) and take notes on return migration for a Nova Scotian professor. Being very young and too eager to get a job like this, neither of us asked any questions about transportation, pay, or accommodations. We found out too late that none would be provided up front, so we hitchhiked from St. John’s. With no money “until the grant came in” and nowhere to stay, we arrived in Lark Harbour late one evening as a pair of townie streels.

Vince was a consummate anthropologist, very good at breaking the ice. He managed to convince our last ride into Lark Harbour that we were harmless enough, if a little loopy. That guy brought us to a family who would let us sleep on their basement floor on the promise of rent to come. Week after week we waited and called the Nova Scotian professor. Our hosts very generously fed and housed us, largely because Vince was so engaging. They loved him and he enjoyed the work. He even helped dig out their septic tank (a barrel) when the added load on their plumbing threatened our stay.

I’ll remember Vince for his great conversation and his sparring with intellectuals in and beyond the university – particularly writers / philosophers John Horwood, Frank Barry and David Benson. Vince was a Marxist in the early days, even after becoming a businessman running the Ship Inn. He laughed at the irony of it. However, he was adamant about not imposing his theoretical interpretations on participants in his research on inner city housing and grassroots politics in St. John’s and Manchester, England. He always let them speak for themselves and vigorously upheld this position in successfully defending his Ph.D. dissertation (“The Social Life of Hulme: Politics and Protest in an Inner City Housing Estate,” 1994, University of Manchester, supervisor: Professor Tim Ingold).

Vince was a respected colleague in the Department of Anthropology at MUN. An active consultant and filmmaker in the Visual Anthropology Unit at Memorial University, Vince had more than a dozen films and papers on local issues and the arts to his credit. In addition to his many years as an online instructor at MUN, he taught sociology and anthropology courses in universities and colleges in Manchester (England), Cape Breton (Nova Scotia), Wolfville (Nova Scotia), Prince George (B.C.), Brandon (Manitoba) and Grand Falls (Newfoundland). He was a good friend to many and whenever we met, professors Tanner, Inglis, Chiaramonte, Nemec, Clarke, Leyton, Kennedy and others would inevitably ask how Vince was making out after he moved to Grand Falls. He continued to teach online for the Department of Anthropology until 2022, encouraging students to write and think critically about their worlds. Students loved his stories and illustrative examples.

Finally, Vince was a dad. Everyone in our family has great memories of times and outings with him, Katie, and Morgaine. He taught me (and many others) how to fish for trout! Even after he moved away, Vince sent in something every year for our communal Christmas Eve potluck table: moose or salmon or berries.

I miss Vince for all these reasons and more. He was a true brother in spirit. RIP, Dr. Vincent Stephen Walsh, September 7, 1955 – June 12, 2024.

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cherryeoo · 25 days ago

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Infinity Together

"I'd rather have a rainy day with you than seeing sunshine alone Or have a hundred days of winter with you in my arms I'll be your shelter from the storm just to have you by my side..."

"Today's the first day of winter." Ainsley sighed as she crossed off another day on her desk calendar. She hadn't felt the holiday spirit in a while. Living alone, miles away from her family, working full time as a journalist, and spending her free time writing, the holidays had lost their magic. She didn't celebrate with anyone other than her cat. Her social life, at this point, barely existed.

It hadn't always been like this.

When she first moved to the area, she didn't know anyone, but soon made friends at the local coffee shop where she worked. Weekends were spent with them, and then she met Jackson. He worked at a sports magazine, and soon after, they started dating. It was thanks to him that she landed her current job. Six months later, Jackson was offered a job at Sports Illustrated.

She didn't want him to go, but she knew he couldn't pass it up. On the day he left, he promised he'd come back for her. That was over a year and a half ago. The calls and texts grew less frequent, eventually stopping altogether. Ainsley tried reaching out, but her messages and calls went unanswered. Slowly, she accepted it—he had moved on, and her heart had to follow.

As Ainsley stared at a picture of the two of them from the last Christmas they spent together, memories flooded her mind. She shook her head, pushing them down deep inside her. Time seemed to slip away, the days blending together as she moved forward, each day like the one before.

"Well, time to work." She grabbed her purse from the doorknob and headed downstairs, braving the cold to start her car, only to find it chilled and unwelcoming.

The workday ended as usual—editing, reviewing, sending articles to various departments—leaving her the last one in the office. She had no plans, so staying late didn't bother her. At 8:21 PM, she turned off her computer, stretched, and gathered her things to head home. As she walked outside, she noticed the first snowfall of the season. Normally, she'd have found excitement in it, but now, it only deepened her sense of loss.

Back home, she fed her cat and heated leftovers for dinner, settling onto the couch in her favorite pajamas with tea and a show. She had the next few days off and planned to watch as many episodes as she could.

The next morning, Ainsley woke to the sunlight streaming through her living room window, her cat curled up by her feet. She groaned as she sat up, rubbing the sleep from her eyes before making her way to the window. Outside, a fresh blanket of snow sparkled under the morning sun. She pulled the curtain closed and went upstairs to shower and change.

Later that day, Ainsley received a call from her best friend, who invited her to coffee and Christmas shopping. Though Ainsley had planned to be alone, she didn't want to disappoint her friend. So, she agreed. The two met at the coffee shop where Ainsley used to work, and they spent the afternoon talking about their jobs, lives, and the holidays. Her friend's cheerful energy lifted Ainsley's spirits.

They shopped together, finding perfect gifts for one another. Later, they sat at the coffee shop, enjoying hot drinks and laughing. Ainsley enjoyed her friend's company. Their bond had grown so strong that they were like sisters. After a day of shopping, Ainsley bought a gift for her friend, and the two parted ways, promising to see each other again the next evening.

As evening fell, Ainsley prepared her house for their Christmas Eve sleepover. Her friend arrived, bursting with energy and Christmas cheer. The night was filled with movies, talking, and laughter. As they sat on the couch, sipping cocoa, Ainsley's friend asked, "Have you thought about dating again?"

Ainsley hesitated, but then nodded. "I have been thinking about it. Maybe it's time."

Her friend smiled. "I think you deserve it. It's been almost two years."

"I know. I'm not getting any younger," Ainsley said with a smile. "Maybe it's time to move on."

"That's the spirit! Don't be a crazy cat lady," her friend joked, making Ainsley laugh.

That night, Ainsley lay awake in bed, thinking about Jackson. How had things gone so wrong? He had been the one, the one she thought she would spend her life with. Yet, here she was, alone on Christmas Eve, thinking of the love that never was.

The next morning, Ainsley woke to the sound of her friend shouting, "Merry Christmas!" from downstairs. She joined her friend for breakfast—coffee, pancakes, and all the Christmas treats her friend had prepared. It was a small but perfect tradition. After breakfast, they exchanged gifts. Ainsley had picked out jewelry for her friend, and in return, she received the same scarf she had given her friend last year.

"I'm glad we're together today," Ainsley said as her friend prepared to leave. "But I'll be okay on my own."

Her friend gave her a quick hug before heading off to her family. Ainsley waved goodbye, watching her drive away. She locked the door behind her, feeling the weight of solitude return. She slipped on the scarf her friend had given her and bundled up for the cold, ready to face another Christmas alone.

She drove to her favorite spot, the park where she and Jackson used to meet. It had become a ritual for her to come here every year, hoping he'd return. This would be her last time, she swore. As she sat under the Sakura blossom tree by the frozen pond, the familiar memories surfaced, but she tried to push them away, listening to her favorite song, Liebesträume No. 3 by Franz Liszt.

Two hours passed, and Ainsley stood up to leave. She was cold, hungry, and tired of waiting for someone who wasn't coming. She was about to turn away when she heard a voice—his voice.

"Ainsley!"

She froze. Her heart skipped a beat. She turned to find Jackson rushing toward her, dressed in black with a familiar scarf—one she had given him the last Christmas they spent together.

Her breath caught in her throat. Jackson wrapped his arms around her, pulling her tightly to him, his face buried in her neck as if afraid she'd slip away.

"Ainsley," he whispered.

"J-Jackson?" Her voice faltered as tears welled up in her eyes.

"I'm here," he said, pulling away slightly to look into her eyes. "I'm here, and I'm sorry. I couldn't keep my promise. I was lost, and I should have come back sooner. I never stopped thinking about you, but I had to finish what I started. I know I've hurt you, and I don't deserve forgiveness. But I'm here now, and I always will be. I love you."

Ainsley stood still, overwhelmed by the weight of his words. She wanted to cry, scream, ask him why, but instead, her body took over. She threw herself into his arms, hugging him tightly.

"I never gave up on you, Jackson," she whispered through her tears. "I waited. Every Christmas, I waited. But now you're here. You're back. You promised."

"I'm here," he repeated, his voice breaking. "And I'll never leave again."

He pulled away just enough to look her in the eyes, and with trembling hands, he presented her with a small black velvet box. He opened it, revealing a delicate silver ring with two diamonds nestled between its loops—an infinity symbol.

"Ainsley, I swear, I will spend the rest of my life making up for the time I lost. Will you marry me?" he asked, his voice full of hope.

Ainsley's heart swelled. She took the ring, her hands shaking. "Yes. Yes, I will," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion.

Jackson gently slid the ring onto her finger and kissed her hand, then cupped her face, wiping away her tears. "Promise me, every Christmas from now on, we'll be together. Always."

"I promise," Ainsley said, smiling through her tears. "Always and forever."

They stood in the snow, holding each other, their hearts entwined. This was their infinity.

And so began their forever, together.

#writer #writerscommunity #writers on tumblr #female writers #cherryeoo; Infinity Together #q; Infinity Together #fiction #mystory #mywork

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callsign-phoenix · 2 years ago

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I wrote this as a part of my advent calendar fics, I hope you like it!

It is a Natasha ‘Phoenix’ Trace x female!reader imagine.

Thank you @marvelandotherfandomimagines for proofreading!

Day 12: mall Santa

Warnings: none

There was one thing that many children had done that you hadn’t experienced even once in your life.

Your family hadn’t been in tune with a lot of Christmas traditions, and so in contrast to your girlfriend you had never met a mall Santa.

When Christmas drew near and you talked about your traditions Nat was shocked as to how little you knew, and when you talked about the Santas in department stores she lost her patience entirely.

She was kind and caring but told you that you had missed out on a lot, and when you passed a department store the next day during gift shopping she pulled you inside with a loving but taunting grin.

You followed her, being pulled by her by your intertwined hands, but even though you shook your head vehemently she didn’t slow in her stride towards where all the kids were gathering.

There was no sign with an age limit so Nat and you stopped short at the back of the queue, where all the kids and parents were standing expectantly.

Your eyes were pleading with Nat to stop what she was determined to do.

But when she realized you were watching her she simply smiled, squeezing the hand she was still holding lovingly.

Santa took his time but you inched closer and closer in line to meet the man in the cheap coat and fake beard, who did his best to give everyone a special memory.

You were more nervous of the judgment of the bystanders than you were to talk to this actor, you took him seriously because you had watched him for a while, and he was very kind and sweet with the kids.

When it was your turn you stepped towards the man hesitantly, not quite sure what to do with yourself.

Nat smiled at him as she pushed you forwards, her arm reassuringly at the small of your back.

“My girlfriend has never met a mall Santa before, I felt it important for her to do it at least once in her life,” she smiled and Santa chuckled, nodding as she stepped back to wait at the spot where the parents waited for their kids.

Santa’s focus was on you and he suggested you sit in his lap, which you reluctantly did.

It wasn’t uncomfortable and you didn’t feel pressured in any way, you just didn’t know quite what to say.

“That your girlfriend back there?” He asked you softly and you nodded, a gentle but proud smile forming on your face.

“She’s the best person I know,” you answered him, and he nodded in turn.

“She seems special, but so do you. You deserve to be happy with her,” your Santa told you, and you thanked him for the compliments.

When you glanced at Nat your eyes got caught on her and a smile played at the edges of your mouth as you watched her look around the room.

There was a small pause in your conversation before Santa chuckled, drawing your attention back to him.

“What would you want for Christmas?” He asked you, and your eyes drifted back to your girlfriend for a millisecond.

“I’d like to call myself hers, completely. I’d like to marry her one day,” you told him and he nodded, smiling as if he understood what you were saying.

Nat and you went home not talking about what you had experienced but chatting about the rest of your day, and you spent the next few days preparing for Christmas.

You both dressed up for Christmas Eve dinner and you shared a date night just the two of you, your favorite music playing in the background while you shared your favorite food and drink.

Before dessert you found Nat on her knees in front of you with her hands outstretched, cradling a black case with a gorgeous engagement ring in it.

You could barely breathe as she proposed to you, looking entirely sure and happy as she smiled up at you.

You couldn’t answer her but you reached down to your pocket before pulling something out and holding it towards her.

It was also a ring box, because you had planned on proposing to her.

tagging: @wildbornsiren @mayhem24-7forever @green-socks @hederasgarden @letsfvckingdance @shadeds-library @a-reader-and-a-writer @yespolkadotkitty @whateverbagman @neptunes-curse @sweetheartlizzie07 @top-gun-rooster @iloveprettyboysblog @ateliefloresdaprimavera @imjess-themess @littlebadariell @angstyjellybean @marchingicenotes7 @midget713 @supernaturaldawning @gspenc @adorephina @gigisimsonmars @pansexualwitchwhoneedstherapy @bespinnn @softromantist @malindacath @oliviah-25 @kwanimations @18crazybutcutealsopsycho @glowingtree @natasharomanoffisbaebby @simping4wanda @starkleila @tamix44 @ycarlii @katesmadness @eggscrambler84 @d0ingitwithpassi0n @mavericksicybabe @kendra-rose @desert-fern @mavrellover91 @allivingstone01 @rhettabbotts @withakindheartx @trikigirl271 @cherrycola27 @bonitanightmxres

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#natasha phoenix trace imagine #natasha phoenix trace x you #natasha phoenix trace x reader #natasha phoenix trace #natasha trace imagine #natasha trace x you #natasha trace x reader #phoenix top gun #top gun phoenix

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joe9cool · 2 years ago

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Collide-Justin Herbert- 23

a/n: Usual disclaimer, I do not know or own the Los Angeles Chargers or their families. This is all fanfiction purposes

Christmas was getting closer.

Sara couldn't believe it was the last Saturday before Christmas. She was over at Justin's with Erika, wrapping last minute things. Her gifts all came at once, so did the groceries she ordered to make her desserts for his family.

Her sisters had called and expressed disappointment that she didn't come home. Alyssa had invited her to come back to St.Louis to spend time with her and the kids while Brent was on the road for a few games. She had to make some excuse that she had booked an interview that had to be done the day after.

She felt bad, but at the same time she didn't. Sara truly felt at home with Justin's family. Even thought she hadn't met Mitch and Isabel she knew that they would get along well.

Christmas music was playing softly as the sound of cutting and tearing of wrapping paper was heard throughout the large house. Sara looked at Nova, who was sitting next to her, observing the process. She took one of the stick-on bows from the bag and stuck it on her head. The girls laughed as they watched the cat try to shake it off. Finally she felt bad and plucked it off the poor baby's head. "Sorry Novi" She patted the spot.

"Isn't it crazy how we are wrapping gifts and playing Christmas music and we can go for a swim right now? It was a cool sixty six degrees, however it was sunny and they could go for a dip in the pool if they wanted to. "When does Justin's family get here?"

"Wednesday. We are celebrating Saturday before the team leaves Sunday morning." It was a bummer that they were on the road for Christmas, but she knew what Alyssa was feeling with Brent.

Erika was leaving Sunday, with Sara dropping her off before catching the game. Justin wanted her at SoFi since Joe and his crew would be there. But Sara decided to lay low. Heidi messaged her the other day saying that there was online speculation that she was seeing someone. It had started with the smile she gave the paps being out and about. Someone had decided to start something. Well it wasn't a rumor if it was true. But the public didn't need to know that."

Luckily Heidi put out an old interview from over the summer that was published in September . Sara said she was single (she hadn't met Justin yet) and that sorta settled the small speculation down.

Still, she decided to lay a low profile. She could clean the house, get everything ready for when his family got here. As much as she loved seeing Justin in person, sometimes TV got the best angles. Erika finished up her gifts to bring for her family and took Sara's as well. She always got something for her friends' parents, as well as her brother.

The rest of the evening was filled with baking. (Sara made sure to clean up so Justin wouldn't get annoyed with any leftover baking mess) the gifts for Justin and his family were placed under the tree. She did notice a few that were labeled for her from Justin and she squealed like a little kid.

The gift she was most excited about, which was the calendar, came In a vanilla envelope the other day. AnnSophie had done an excellent job editing and putting everything together. Sara and Erika admired every photograph and giggled when she told the story on how Justin almost found out about his gift and how jealous he got thinking the sexy photoshoot was for the public, when really it was for his eyes only. She wrapped the gift and hid it on her side of his closet.

Erika spent the night in the guest room. Sunday morning they were at the airport at 5 am so she could make her flight. They hugged and wished each other a Merry Christmas. Erika wouldn't come back til the 2nd and they would depart for Abu Dhabi on the 5th together.

On the drive back to Irvine, Sara teared up at the fact that the 5th was only two weeks away. She didn't want to cling, but she wanted to spend all of her time with Justin. She regretted not going to his game. Even being in the same room as him would calm her down. After going back and forth with herself, she decided to stay at his place. She could cook, play and cuddle with Nova, and stay in her pajamas.

One she pulled into his garage she brewed some coffee and took out the eggs and veggies to make an omelet. After the meal she began stretching and looked up YouTube pilates videos. Once she did that she did Joey's meditation routine he gave her.

After that, she did a deep clean of Justin's place, changed Nova’s litter, began seasoning the salmon, and was on a zoom call with her agent. Charlie facetimed her to express disappointment she wasn't coming home for Christmas. Her heart broke, it wasn't his fault that his grandpa was a stubborn man and refused to cut off his bitch of a sister, or realize that his daughter didn't want to follow the same path as her sisters.

She occupied Charlie's sadness by having him tell her about his class Christmas party and the gifts under the tree for him and his siblings. He told her that he was hiding in the bathroom to call her so his siblings didn't find out and try to hog her time. Again, as much as she wanted to scold him for not allowing his siblings to take a turn she understood.

Once they hung up. (She heard her sister yelling for him) the game started and she put the salmon in the air fryer while she made the guacamole. So far things were looking good for the Chargers. Sara knew how important it was for them to win the rest of their schedule. Justin was very dedicated the past week. On his day off he did go to the facility to lift for a bit and then spent the rest of the week reviewing video and practice.

As Sara was cutting the ingredients up she was trying not to drool over Justin in the royal blue uniform. He looked good in everything he wore, but those and the navy jerseys were the ones she liked the best.

She was just cutting up and putting everything together during the third quarter. The quarterbacks both exchanged interceptions.

However, Justin threw another one, and the overall play calling was awful. She was nervous, the titans would soon capitalize on the scoreless period. That was all she needed, Justin to be in an awful mood.

Then things changed. There was a touchdown, and almost another one.

She was on her seat the entire game, as the fourth quarter winded down and the titans were close to scoring she began stress munching and pacing around the house, Nova following her thinking it was playtime.

Of course the titans scored and she was sure it was heading into overtime until her man threw a thirty five yard pass to Mike and set up the game winning field goal.

"FUCK YES!" She screamed and picked up the cat to run around the house. No sulking Justin tonight. She was feeling good, maybe she could blow him.

She thought long, maybe the calendar gift was better to give to him before his family came in.

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Taylor was in her office.

She was tweeting away while trying to watch all the games. She had the NFL report tomorrow and she needed to be educated. Her assignments were heavy this week due to the insanity of all the games and pushing for a playoff spot.

Watching the Chargers game, she decided to post a tweet about the throw.

There aren’t many other QB’s I’d rather have in this situation…

48 seconds, no problem.

It was a simple, professional tweet. She hit send and set her phone down.

It had been months since she had spoken with him. As painful as it was to see him last week, it hurt a little less. Maybe she was finally getting over him. Maybe it was the confidence of other players commenting on her insta photos.

TAYLOR BISCOTTI TELLS TWITTER 'THERE'S NO OTHER QB I WANT' ABOUT BOYFRIEND JUSTIN HERBERT

Twitteruser 1 : TB being a good supportive girlfriend

Twitteruser2 reply : she wants to be a WAG so bad

@twitteruser2: Herb better publicly claim her she got other players in her DM’S

It was really late by the time Justin got home, they did all of the usual routine before heading out. They spoke about Christmas plans. Justin and Sara were going to celebrate the 23rd and 24th with his family before everyone (except Sara) would head out to Indianapolis for Monday night Football.

There was a part of Justin that wished he would get over his fear and claim Sara publicly. There would be no secrecy, no sneaking around. They could go anywhere they wanted, see anyone they wanted.

As much as Justin would like that he was terrified. He wasn't well known outside the NFL, Sara was a global superstar.

He was anxious to get home to his girl, who only had a couple weeks left to spend time with. Again, he shook that thought from his head as he finally beat traffic and turned down his quiet street. Justin came into the house and immediately saw the dimly lit room with the lights on the Christmas tree and windows. Sara was sitting down by the table with a bottle of champagne and a plate with delicious food. He bent down and greeted Nova first before greeting his other lady.

She got up and met him in a heated kiss, him lifting her up easily as she wrapped her legs and arms around him. They broke away, breathless. "You did so well today." She breathed. He smiled. "Even after two interceptions?"

She rolled her eyes. "Only you would kill the moment. He set her down and she went over to the champagne to pour two glasses. Handing one over to him she held hers up. "To being the number six seed." Justin clinked his glass against hers and drank. Normally he would be irritated over the early celebration, but for the first time he felt confident that despite the injuries, despite any and all adversity this team was going to make the playoffs.

They both finished and set the glasses in the sink. Sara looked up at him and smiled. "I need you to do me a huge favor"

Justin couldn't think of anything besides getting her out of her clothes. So he was ready to agree with anything. "Yes?"

She had a shit eating grin on her face. "Say turnt"

He groaned as she laughed her head off. "Not that. Come on." Referring to his post game interview. He smiled as she calmed herself down. But she continued the teasing. "Also can we talk about last week when you said we should be booing on an off day! You are such a nerd."

He turned pink. "Do you just spend all day watching my interviews like a creep?"

She smiled "Don't deflect. You were totally that kid that reminded the teacher that there was homework." He was silent for a bit. Finally he mumbled. "Well I didn't do it for no reason." She threw her head back

"Oh my god I would have totally hated your guts in high-school!"

He laughed and grabbed her hips to pull her towards him. "I probably wouldn't have liked yours either. But now I do. I want to be all up in them." She rolled her eyes. "Okay that was smooth." He laughed and bent down to kiss her again.

They made their way into his bedroom where he pushed her down on the bed. As he began to undress he saw her get up. "Wait, I forgot to give you one of your Christmas gifts." He was confused. "Babe we aren't exchanging til my family is here."

She laughed from inside his closet. "Trust me I don't think you want to open this in front of them." She came out with a slim item in green wrapping paper. She handed it to him. "I thought you might like this."

Justin Herbert's Calendar

The cover was Sara on her knees. An Oregon Jersey with the number '10' no doubt his. "I knew I wasn't crazy! I noticed something was missing" She sat beside him and rolled her eyes. "Glad to know that's what you care about." He kissed her head. "I love it."

"Open it." He tore the plastic wrap off and carefully studied all of the months. January had her in his Chargers jersey doing the huddle pose. He laughed and then groaned when he flipped it to February. The picture was the one he got jealous of a week ago. He looked up to see her shit eating grin. "All this time you had me believing this shoot was for everyone to see yet it was for my eyes only?" She nodded. Throwing the calendar he grabbed her. "You minx" He growled as he climbed on top of her. He lifted her shirt off of her and began to suck on her neck. She moaned as he hit the spot he knew where to go every time. His lips trailed down to her breasts as he began to suck and nibble on the pebbles that were her nipples.

Her breasts were always sensitive. From the first night they spent together almost six months ago he discovered that and he always joked he was going to make her cum by sucking on her breasts. He probably could too. She was so into what he was doing she didn't notice her panties had disappeared along with his pants and underwear. They both gasped and moaned as he slipped it in.

Justin lost focus on what he was doing, every time he was in her he lost all senses around him. It was her, it was always her.

He caught his breath for a few while he thought Sara was doing the same, until he felt her hands underneath his ass and pushed him up. "Move" She moaned.

With a strength he didn't know he had, he stayed still while she whined. "Actually I think I like this better." He put his body weight on her. "Oh yeah I like this. Nice and relaxing.

She was going to fucking kill. "Justin please. I do this nice thing for you and this is how you repay me?" He smiled and kissed her. "What? We are having quality time together." That was it, he wanted to play dirty, she was going to match his level. As much as she could, she rolled her hips and clenched down so she could spasm around him. It worked. He gasped and groaned. "Damn it." She giggled and it trailed off into a moan as he began to move. Gripping the sheets, her vision blurred as Justin adjusted his speed and his strokes to hit the spot. As she was about to finish he stopped and pulled out. Before she could protest he grabbed her hips and flipped her over. He reentered her and moved at a fast pace. "God baby you feel so fucking good." He breathed.

Sara couldn't even form words, just lost in the moment. Once again just as she was about to burst he slowed down. "Justin. What-" She moaned as he hit the spot going slow. It was pure torture, also a bit surprising since this wasn't usually his style.

For Justin it was confusing as well. But something in him went animalistic. He wanted to see how far he could take this, and make her fall apart completely on him. When she went to Abu Dhabi, he wanted her to be thinking of this moment, as well as the others they shared.

As she moaned underneath him, he decided to tease her some more. He no longer was hitting the spot but sped up and she was still a mess. "Baby pleasss" She dragged out, her moans turning breathy. Justin had enough he needed to flood her pussy soon or he would explode. He pushed her down on the mattress before putting all of his power back towards her sweet spot. Once he hit it at the correct power and speed she screamed and the coil in his lower belly broke loose. Throwing his head back, he made a noise that wasn't even human.

His vision blurred and he was not even aware of where he was. His partner was face first on the bed and he collapsed next to her. There was about a five minute silence except heavy breathing. Finally the only word Justin could get out. "Wow" she nodded and looked over at him, meeting her eyes, they both shared a smile and laughter. Eventually, they got up and showered before falling asleep quickly. Justin knew that he was going to be exhausted tomorrow (or later today) but it was worth it.

—-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The rest of the week went by in a blur. Wednesday Justin was at practice and then had to pick up his parents. Sara had her fenty shoot. It was a candy land theme, along with the fashion show. Christina Aguilera was going to perform, as well as Cardi B during the show and the after party.

It was a long shoot, one that she didn't get home til midnight, at that point everyone was asleep, besides Justin, who waited up for her. "My family wanted to stay up, but they were too exhausted from the flight and dinner. She nodded and she was tired as well, so the last thing she wanted to do was socialize. She got ready for bed and cuddled with Justin.

The next morning she woke up to an empty bed, football didn't stop just because family was in town. She looked at her phone to see it was 10am. Fuck she hadn't meant to sleep in that long. Sara already heard voices in the kitchen. Damn it.

She quickly jumped in the shower and did light makeup. She didn't want to look dead in front of his family. Doing a once over in the mirror, Sara decided she looked presentable enough. With a deep breath she opened the bedroom door and headed to the kitchen. Holly spotted her and hugged her, as well as Mark and Patrick. Carly was back in Oregon with her family. After the initial greetings she had to ask. "I thought Mitch and Isabel were supposed to come?"

Patrick rolled his eyes. "Oh they are here, they went with Justin to work out. They are huge fitness enthusiasts." She should have figured since Mitch did play football. "Speaking of fitness, did you lose weight?"

Mark hit his son's arm. "Didn't your mother and I teach you anything?" She laughed. "No it's fine, I have been working out more. I'm walking the Fenty show. So I'm trying to tone up a bit."

Patrick smiled. "Well that's great! Soon you will be running sprints with us!"

"Oh god no, your brother ran with me on a treadmill and I wanted to die." Pat laughed. "Let me guess he bragged about it?" She smiled, remembering the little fight they got into about a couple weeks ago. "Yeah he apologized once he figured why I gave him the silent treatment for a few hours."

Holly shook her head. "Sounds like my middle child." She gestured to the healthy breakfast spread on the table. "I made this for everybody. Mitch and Isabel should be back any minute." As on cue, the door opened and Sara took a deep breath. She had to admit, of all the members of Justin's family she met, she was most nervous about Mitch. It was probably because he was the oldest and obviously the wisest being in medical school. Also he was the same age as her. Her anxiety told her that he wouldn't like his younger brother being involved with an older woman, even though the rational side of her told her that was stupid. However, anxiety was winning the battle right now.

A tall, short haired man, and an elegant woman walked in. With warm smiles on their face. After they told Pat about their workout their eyes landed on Sara. She smiled and decided to walk over and hold her hand out. "Hi I'm Sara, you must be Mitch and Isabel. It's very nice to meet you." She began to laugh, a nervous habit. "I'm sorry I'm really nervous."

They both laughed. Isabel stepped in, a slight Spanish accent. "You're nervous! I was terrified! That was the whole reason we went to the facilities with Justin! I had to burn off the nerves." She laughed again. "I'm sorry I'm such a big fan of your movies and your show!" Mitch laughed. "She made me binge all three seasons in quarantine over the phone." Sara laughed. All the nervous tension melted away. She felt bad when Isabell mentioned the picture they took in NYC back when Sara thought she was just another fan. Small world wasn't it?

Everyone got along so well, and even though Sara loved Justin's family she wished her only family had more traits like the Herbert's. She saw so much of her family except without the toxic family members running their lives. They all shared a nice breakfast before making plans to go to the grocery store. As everyone got ready to leave. Holly looked at Sara, "aren't you coming?" Sara blinked. "Um, I don't think Justin would like that very much."

"Oh come on! We will wear a disguise! Unless paps are out this early." Isabells eyes widened. Sara laughed. "Trust me paps aren't around this area unless they are scheduled."

"Celebrities call paparazzi?" Sara rolled her eyes. "It's very common, if I have a movie coming out and I'm in a very public place my team will call them, otherwise I stay very low."

Mitch jumped in. "I have to admit when he told me about you I was shocked, considering he is so private." Sara smiled

"Same." Grabbing her sunglasses, baseball cap and mask. They headed out in a rental SUV. They pulled into Albertsons and began to shop. Sara thought about doing a mini cookie day and started throwing all of the ingredients in her cart.

Overall the entire group spent almost $300, and no one seemed to know or care who Sara or Justin's family were. They loaded up the car and stopped at Starbucks for holiday drinks. Mark was driving and Sara tried to hand him her card in the drive through. He laughed and told her to put it away.

They got back to the house and Sara told Holly about the cookie tradition. She loved it and with some resistance from Patrick and Mitch, they all began looking up recipes. The entire group laughed and joked around as they got everything together.

Justin came home to a sweet smelling house and his family and Sara sipping on wine and laughing. He smiled, and his heart swelled. He walked up to her and kissed her in front of his family.

The group tried to not pay attention, but this was something they would never have thought they would see in a million years. Justin, their shy, reserved, private Justin was kissing and showing affection for a girl who was the total opposite of him. This was one for the history books. Before anyone could mention anything, Justin snuck one of the turtle cookies. Munching on one, he groaned. "Oh my god these are my favorite." Mitch and Patrick followed suit and the decision was made that turtle cookies would be made.

As they did in Oregon, the group played board games. (Of course Justin had to win) at one point they had put on Christmas movies that basically served as background noise and they continued their conversation. At one point Justin looked over at Sara, who he saw was totally relaxed and smiling. He imagined how she was with her family, it was probably tense and stiff with talks about money and high society shit.

Once again, his mind drifted to January 5th Sara leaving. He saw the plane ticket in her bag. Her flight left at 5:00am, it just made things harder for him, that he had it down to the hours, the seconds that she would be leaving him for a few months. As she was sitting on the couch seat next to him, he felt that she was too far away. As she was listening to a conversation that Mark and Isabell were having regarding biology, she felt herself being lifted up and put on Justin's laugh. At one point Holly turned to Sara. "Oh I forgot to get the spinach for breakfast tomorrow."

"Oh don't worry, it was in my cart." Justin was confused. "Did you instacart?" Sara shook her head. "No, we went to the grocery store." He stiffened underneath her. "No one saw you with my family right?"

Mitch cut in. "Jesus bro. It was a trip to the damn store. We were in and out. No one in Irvine cares." Pat laughed. "You're not that famous."

Sara turned to face him. "I was careful, had on my disguise." He nodded "hopefully no one saw you guys or had your phone out and for some reason she felt offended. She got up off his lap and went to the kitchen. The last thing she wanted to do was start a fight in front of his family.

As she pulled out a dessert plate and filled it with cookies she felt Justin's eyes on her. She met his eyes and smiled trying to mask her hurt feelings. He looked around, seeing his family involved in their own conversation, he got up and walked over to the kitchen behind Sara. Grabbing her and pulling her to him. He spoke in a low voice "What's wrong?" She shook her head. "Don't lie to me" He kissed behind her ear.

She sighed. "Later, I don't want to have this discussion in front of your family." She leaned into his embrace. They both were unaware that his family was whispering about the unusual romantic gesture and pda he was giving Sara. Sure in high school or college when he would introduce girls they would hold hands or cuddle. But this was new. Mitch and Isabell side-eyed to each other smiling as Justin was embracing with Sara, he was so wrapped up in her he didn't see his brother take a picture with his phone. Patrick was giggling. Holly decided to end her boys teasing their brother.

Getting up from the couch, she clapped her hands. "Okay guys! Let's put on some Christmas movies and have some cocoa. The rest of the group came into the kitchen and began to make the hot chocolate along with the whip cream and all of the toppings. Sara didn't even see Holly throw all of this in her cart at the store.

They stayed up, til 11pm watching the classic Christmas movies. Once again

Justin would be tired but he was happy. As he and Sara laid down he remembered he had something to discuss. They were in bed as he pulled her to him. "So what did you want to discuss?" She looked at him with confusion and he smiled. "I didn't forget. I know you were bothered by something." She sighed. "Well it's just that I felt that you were so paranoid about me not being out with your family it was just offensive." Justin nodded as she continued. "It made me think of what happens when this becomes public."

Justin thought about it. "Well I mean I don't think we have to make an official statement. We just lay low."

"But what happens If someone does discover us? Or it leaks?"

Justin stiffened. "Do you plan to reveal something? Are your friends going to say anything?" He thought back to David's words

"No, but these things always come out eventually. Baby I just want to prepare you if it happens. I don't think this is something we can wing."

They kissed, both to melt their worries away. "Well i'll be gone, so that will take any speculation or heat. Only close friends now. What about your teammates?"

"I trust them one hundred percent. We will be okay. We have been very careful, no one is going to find us out. Now let's just enjoy our early Christmas." He began to bite and suck on her neck. "We aren't having sex while your family is here."

He groaned while she laughed. Nova eventually joined them and Justin sighed.

"I'm so glad I spent money on a bed for you Nova."

A/N: Merry Christmas! I just wanted to get caught out with stuff. Thank you guys from the bottom of my heart for reading and loving this story, as well as your feedback! As always my inbox is always open

#Justin Herbert #Alexa writes collide #Los Angeles Chargers #nfl #nfl imagine

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