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Harnessing the Power of Speech Analytics in Contact Center
The modern contact center, also referred to as a customer engagement center, is a dynamic hub for customer interactions. But with every call, email, and chat conversation comes a wealth of untapped data. This is where speech analytics comes in – a powerful tool that unlocks the hidden insights within customer interactions, empowering businesses to optimize their contact center solutions and elevate the customer experience.
What is Speech Analytics?
Speech analytics is a technology that utilizes natural language processing (NLP) to analyze and extract valuable information from recorded customer conversations. It goes beyond simply transcribing calls; it delves into the sentiment behind the words, identifying emotions, keywords, and recurring themes.
How Does Speech Analytics Benefit Contact Center and Engagement Center Solutions?
By leveraging speech analytics, contact centers can gain a significant edge in several key areas:
Enhanced Customer Satisfaction: Speech analytics helps identify customer pain points and frustrations. By analyzing call sentiment, you can pinpoint areas requiring improvement and proactively address customer concerns. This leads to a more positive customer experience and increased satisfaction.
Improved Agent Performance: Speech analytics provides valuable insights into agent interactions. It can identify areas where agents excel and areas where coaching and development are needed. This targeted approach empowers agents to improve their communication skills, handle complex issues more effectively, and ultimately, resolve customer inquiries faster.
Increased Operational Efficiency: Speech analytics can automate quality assurance (QA) processes, freeing up valuable agent and supervisor time. By identifying trends and recurring issues, businesses can streamline workflows, optimize call routing, and reduce average handle time (AHT).
Boosted Revenue Generation: Speech analytics can uncover upselling and cross-selling opportunities during customer interactions. It can also identify trends in customer buying behavior, allowing businesses to tailor product offerings and promotions to better meet customer needs.
Improved Compliance Management: Speech analytics ensures adherence to industry regulations and internal policies by identifying non-compliant language within calls. This proactive approach mitigates risk and fosters a culture of compliance within the contact center.
Investing in a Speech Analytics Solution
By implementing a robust speech analytics solution, businesses can transform their contact centers into true customer engagement centers. This technology empowers businesses to extract actionable insights from every customer interaction, leading to a more satisfied customer base, a more efficient operation, and ultimately, a stronger bottom line.
Ready to Harness the Power of Speech Analytics?
Celebal Technologies offers a comprehensive suite of contact center solutions, including industry-leading speech analytics. Contact Celebal Technologies today to learn how we can help you unlock the hidden potential within your customer interactions and take your customer engagement to the next level.
#Contact Center solutions#Engagement Center solutions#customer engagement center#Speech Analytics solution#natural language processing
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#sports center#sports#football center#good music#music playlist#music for business#music streaming#sports music#background music#music curation#jukebox app#customer engagement#customer experience#customer satisfaction#customer service
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WooCommerce WABAAPI WhatsApp Alerts: Enhance Your E-Commerce Communication
Unlock the power of instant messaging in your WooCommerce store with the WABAAPI WhatsApp Alerts Plugin. Effortlessly send customized WhatsApp order notifications, manage customer engagement, and enhance your online store's performance with our user-friendly, free plugin.
#SMSGatewayCenter#WooCommerce WhatsApp Alerts#WABAAPI Plugin#Instant Order Notifications#E-Commerce Messaging#WooCommerce India#WhatsApp Integration#Customer Engagement#Online Store Communication#WooCommerce WhatsApp Add-on#Automated WhatsApp Messages#WooCommerce Custom Alerts#WooCommerce Plugin India#sms gateway center
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AI in CRM: 5 Ways AI is Transforming Customer Experience
New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/ai-in-crm-5-ways-ai-is-transforming-customer-experience/
AI in CRM: 5 Ways AI is Transforming Customer Experience
In today’s digital world, delivering a robust customer experience has become integral to any business, with hyper-personalization as a new standard.
Nearly every company offers a digital product now, and organizations strive to deliver a seamless customer experience at every touchpoint in the customer journey.
CRM platforms are efficiently designed to handle these customer service-related needs. Moreover, modern CRM systems also leverage artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the functionalities of CRM tools.
According to recent Customer Behavior Statistics, 91% of companies use AI in their CRM systems, and 42% have already implemented AI in their CRM strategy.
In this article, we will see how AI is transforming CRM platforms and why they have become necessary to adopt.
The Need for AI in CRM
Customer expectations are at an all-time high, and they expect seamless personalization of their experience at every touch point. However, as the data grows, managing and acting on it will become more complex.
AI in CRM platforms is infused to address these data-related complexities. AI ingests and analyzes huge amounts of data in real-time to predict customers’ needs. The powerful synergy of AI in CRM platforms enhances overall business operations and helps build stronger customer connections.
Traditional CRMs have limitations in terms of data gathering and managing external workflows. They provide insights based on data that is manually integrated and often tweaked.
On the other hand, AI-powered CRMs are faster and provide actionable insights based on real-time data. The collected data is more accurate, which leads to better customer information. On the operations front, it enables data democratization and ensures data governance.
5 Key Ways AI is Transforming CRM
Integrating AI in CRM systems has become a secret weapon in enhancing customer engagement and retention. Companies using AI-driven CRM tools see a 29% increase in sales.
Let’s see how AI is transforming customers’ relationship platforms.
Personalized Customer Experience
AI-powered CRMs provide in-depth customer insights and forecast customer behavior using predictive analytics techniques. With an in-depth view of leads and conversions, intelligent CRM suggests personal customer recommendations based on their preferences.
Additionally, with all this information about customer preferences, sales and marketing teams can target customers with precision.
Routine tasks Automation
AI CRMs are designed to automate routine tasks, such as customer behavior analysis, data entry, customer follow-up emails, delivery status, sales entries, etc. Automation saves time while allowing teams to focus on strategic planning and innovation.
With real-time customer interactions and automated replies, companies can also mitigate the risks associated with manual procedures. Moreover, companies using AI-driven CRM tools show a 29% increase in sales and 25% in customer satisfaction.
By leveraging machine learning algorithms, companies can prioritize leads, schedule follow-ups, and handle customer service queries accurately.
Enhanced Analytics
AI in CRM platforms can take analytics to new heights. By leveraging ML and natural language processing (NLP) techniques, CRM platforms can collect raw data from disparate sources, such as purchase patterns, customer interactions, buying behavior, and purchasing history.
Data ingested from all these sources, coupled with predictive capability, generates unmatchable analytics. These enhanced analytics anticipate businesses to target customers more accurately, allowing businesses to:
Optimize marketing campaigns
An in-depth look into business metrics, such as
Strategize for proactive customer service
Better Sentiment Analysis
Sentiment analysis should be the top priority when choosing an AI-based CRM. It leverages the power of NLP techniques to analyze the customer’s tone, level of urgency, and intent.
When it comes to customer services, sentiment analysis plays a vital role.
For instance, Zoho CRM’s AI assistant, Zia, analyzes customers’ emails and chat messages, segmenting them into positive, negative, and neutral. Once a negative customer tone is detected, the message is prioritized so the support team can address the issue quickly.
Moreover, this capability also improves overall customer retention and proactively resolves pain points.
Continuous Improvement
AI-based CRMs can handle large amounts of data continuously. They’re always learning based on real-time data ingestion from disparate touchpoints, allowing businesses to proactively refine their customer retention strategies.
By leveraging ML algorithms, organizations can optimize their processes and drive ongoing improvements in customer relationship management.
Challenges 0f AI in CRM Adoption
The integration of AI in CRM brings new ways to handle customer relationships, but its integration comes with some definite challenges that might hinder performance.
That’s why it’s necessary to address these roadblocks. Some of the difficulties that organizations confront during the adoption of AI-CRMs may include:
Data Privacy & Governance
AI-based CRMS operates on vast amounts of data collected from multiple customer touchpoints. Therefore, concerns about data privacy might emerge at any stage. However, relevant compliance and data governance policies should be in place to address data privacy concerns.
Data Quality and Integration
For AI-based CRMs, robust data integration tools must be integrated with supportive underlying infrastructure. Without the availability of quality data, the investment in AI CRM initiatives will not yield the expected results.
Therefore, data pipelines and underlying infrastructure should be capable of supporting AI-based CRMs.
Training and Resource Enablement
AI-based CRMs are expensive initiatives, so effective utilization should be a top priority. However, inadequate training and resource enablement can lead to wasted investment.
To avoid this, companies should arrange comprehensive employee training to improve skills and gain new knowledge to use AI systems optimally.
The Future of AI in CRM
Today, interacting with customers is more than a call center initiative. AI-powered CRMs can deliver hyper-personalized and efficient solutions in real-time by anticipating customer needs through predictive analytics.
Additionally, teams can accelerate trend identification, issue resolution, and sales optimizations with AI systems.
Visit unite.ai for the latest trends on AI, CRMs, and the latest technology.
#adoption#ai#ai assistant#AI Hyperpersonalization#AI systems#AI-powered#AI-powered CRM#Algorithms#amp#Analysis#Analytics#Article#artificial#Artificial Intelligence#automation#Behavior#Business#call center#Companies#compliance#comprehensive#continuous#crm#customer engagement#customer experience#customer experiences#customer relationship management#customer relationships#customer retention#customer service
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Crafting a Value Proposition that Resonates with Your Audience
Create a value proposition that connects! Learn how to highlight your unique benefits and solve customer pain points to build a message that drives engagement. #MarketingTips
Crafting a Value Proposition that Resonates with Your Audience Written By: that Hannah Jones Time to Read: 5 minutes A value proposition is a promise of value to your customers. It explains why they should choose your product or service over a competitor’s and how you can meet their needs better than anyone else. A strong value proposition speaks directly to your audience’s problems and…
#audience connection#audience-focused marketing#brand consistency#brand differentiation#brand messaging#brand positioning#brand promise#brand value#building brand loyalty#business branding#business value#competitive advantage#content marketing ideas#content marketing strategy#crafting a value proposition#crafting brand identity#customer engagement#customer pain points#customer-centered marketing#customer-focused content#Digital Marketing Tips#effective messaging#improve engagement#marketing clarity#marketing for businesses#marketing strategy#unique selling points#value proposition examples#value proposition tips#value-focused content
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Knowledge Base SEO-Visibility and Engagement
Optimizing your knowledge base for search engines is crucial for driving organic traffic and enhancing customer engagement. By following these expert tips, you can ensure your knowledge base is SEO-ready and provides valuable insights to your audience. Continue reading to learn how to boost your knowledge base SEO and improve your online visibility. Optimizing Your Knowledge Base for SEOEnable…
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#search engine optimization#search keywords#knowledge base SEO#visibility#engagement#SEO tips#content marketing#knowledge base#user engagement#online visibility#SEO strategy#content optimization#SEO best practices#website SEO#SEO guide#organic traffic#digital marketing#customer support#knowledge management#help center#FAQ SEO#SEO techniques#SEO for beginners#user experience#search rankings#content visibility#SEO tools#content strategy#knowledge base optimization#content engagement
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#Call Center Growth#Customer loyalty#Customer retention strategies#Call center optimization#Enhanced customer experience#Call center efficiency#Customer feedback analysis#Call center performance#Customer support excellence#Service quality improvement#Call center success#Customer satisfaction metrics#Call center best practices#Customer engagement tactics#Employee training in call centers#Customer service innovation#Call center technology#Customer feedback solutions#Data-driven customer service#Call center productivity#Continuous improvement in customer satisfaction#Employee motivation in call centers#Customer-centric approach#Call center solutions#Customer service enhancement#Call center management strategies
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Contact center solutions of the Future: Embracing the Age of Agility, Intelligence, and Empathy
In addition to fixing problems, contact centers are becoming into engagement hubs that shape consumer attitudes and brand loyalty. To successfully navigate this shift, innovative solutions that prioritize intelligence, agility, and empathy are required. The following are some trends that will affect contact centers in the future:
The Imperative of Empathy: Customers desire personalized, human-like experiences. What to anticipate seeing:
AI for emotion: By analyzing voice and text, agents may use emotion recognition to tailor their responses, resulting in a more sympathetic and caring interaction.
Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): Combined visualization of events using augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) fosters trust and shared knowledge.
Gamification: Gamification is the process of making customer service more enjoyable by including both agents and consumers in interactive processes.
AI Advances, Humans Elevated: Automating complex tasks frees up agents while enhancing productivity and self-service.
Conversational AI chatbots: These chatbots can respond to commonly asked questions, divert simple queries, and point users toward pertinent information.
Natural Language Processing (NLP): Quicker answers and more intelligent solutions are possible when the goal of customer requests is understood.
Speech Analytics: Based on agent calls, speech analytics identifies trends and potential improvement areas, resulting in better coaching and training.
Accepting the Omnichannel Journey: Customer satisfaction requires seamless channel transfers.
Omnichannel routing: This method links customers, irrespective of the channel (phone, chat, email, etc.), to the right agent.
Unified agent interfaces: By giving agents a unified perspective of customer interactions across all channels, you can boost productivity.
Integration of social media: Directly responding to customer concerns on the channels of their choice to show that you are paying attention.
Cloud-Based Agility: To accommodate changing needs, contact centers will be scalable and flexible.
Cloud-based solutions: These facilitate rapid development, reduce infrastructure upkeep, and allow for remote workforces.
API integration: Establishing connections with various business systems to offer a thorough understanding of the client experience.
Data-driven decision making: Using analytics to improve agent scheduling, resource allocation, and overall performance is known as data-driven decision making.
The Security Shield: Protecting customer information and interactions will come first.
Enhanced authentication: For safe access, enhanced authentication combines biometric verification with multi-factor authentication.
Data encryption: During transit, sensitive data is safeguarded using data encryption.
Cybersecurity awareness: Agents adhere to stringent security protocols and get continuous training.
In summary, contact centers will profit from cutting edge technology that improves both AI and human abilities. Companies that adopt these trends may create engagement hubs that encourage enduring relationships, foster trust, and eventually boost profitability and customer loyalty. Contact Celebal Technologies today!
#Contact Center solutions#Engagement Center solutions#customer engagement center#Speech Analytics solution#natural language processing
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Best Practices for Managing Call Center Operations
Managing a call center can be a complex task, with many moving parts to consider. From hiring and training employees to maintaining equipment and managing workflows, call center operations require careful attention to detail. However, by implementing best practices, call center managers can help ensure that their operations run smoothly, their employees are engaged and productive, and their customers receive exceptional service. Here are some best practices for managing call center operations: Hire the right people: Hiring the right employees is crucial to the success of any call center. Look for individuals who are friendly, empathetic, and have excellent communication skills. In addition, consider hiring employees with experience in customer service, as they will be more familiar with how to handle difficult situations. Provide comprehensive training: Once you've hired the right employees, make sure to provide them with comprehensive training. This should include training on the company's products and services, as well as on how to handle different types of customer interactions. Ongoing training and coaching can also help employees improve their skills and stay engaged. Use technology to your advantage: Technology can be a valuable tool for call center operations. Consider investing in a customer relationship management (CRM) system, which can help you track customer interactions and provide personalized service. In addition, use analytics tools to track metrics such as call volume, call length, and customer satisfaction, which can help you identify areas for improvement. Monitor employee performance: Regularly monitoring employee performance can help you identify areas where employees need additional training or coaching. Use tools such as call monitoring and quality assurance programs to identify areas where employees are excelling and where they need improvement. Foster employee engagement: Keeping employees engaged and motivated is key to maintaining a productive call center. Provide opportunities for employees to share feedback and ideas, and recognize employees for their achievements. In addition, provide opportunities for career growth and development, which can help employees feel invested in their work. By following these best practices, call center managers can help ensure that their operations run smoothly and that their customers receive exceptional service. By hiring the right people, providing comprehensive training, using technology to your advantage, monitoring employee performance, and fostering employee engagement, you can create a call center that is both efficient and effective.
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Elevating ROI through Personalized Voice Call Marketing: A Strategic Approach for Targeted Audience Engagement
In today's competitive market, businesses are constantly seeking innovative ways to connect with their audience, reduce operational costs, and ultimately boost their return on investment (ROI). One of the most effective strategies emerging in this realm is personalized voice call marketing.
#SMSGatewayCenter#Personalized Voice Marketing#Higher ROI Marketing Strategies#Voice Broadcasting Services#Targeted Voice Messaging#Customer Engagement#Cost-Effective Marketing#SMSGatewayCenter Services#Marketing Conversion Rates#Voice Marketing Analytics#Multichannel Marketing#sms gateway#sms gateway center
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Unleash the Power of AI to Boost Your Customer Connections
New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/unleash-the-power-of-ai-to-boost-your-customer-connections/
Unleash the Power of AI to Boost Your Customer Connections
In a game of inches, communication service providers (CSPs) are looking for tools or practices to help them get ahead. With revenue in the communications services market projected to reach $337 billion in 2024, there’s inevitably a lot at stake. To explore how CSPs can gain a competitive advantage and get ahead of the competition in this growing market, let’s take a look at the potential impact of connecting with customers on their terms and leveraging generative AI (GenAI) to personalize those interactions.
For CSPs, the ultimate goal is to turn potential customer issues into meaningful steps that enhance their experience and drive loyalty. Previously, CSPs could predict the likelihood of someone calling in and would have a generic, purely reactive solution in place. Those predictions were based on large, nonspecific sample sizes and not very personalized to the individual calling in, treating valued customers like numbers or problems to be solved rather than people. With the evolution of customer analytics (thanks to AI), CSPs can get more personalized than ever before and tailor each conversation to the customer’s specific wants and needs.
Breaking Free from One-Size-Fits-All
CSPs aren’t just guides on a customer journey, they’re the cartographers who made the map and the meteorologists who let the guide know when a trail is safe to travel. CSPs can’t afford to specialize in one tiny part of the customer journey but should use all available tools to provide a great experience from start to finish. With GenAI, customer journey analytics and mapping now in play, CSPs can more seamlessly contextualize their unique customer data and predict their customers’ next steps before they even realize themselves. In doing so, they can deliver personalized experiences that make customers come back for more and differentiate them from the competition.
Now, GenAI is based on models that have been trained on giant public data sets, and while they provide interesting information, this information is available to everyone. To truly gain valuable insights, models need to be augmented to the industries in which they specifically support. Why is that relevant? Because CSPs have an opportunity to refine these models with their unique structured and unstructured data that is relevant to their industries. This next level of data intelligence will also allow them to engage on a much more personal level with their customers.
So What?
The big change in this approach is that CSPs can’t be solely satisfied with predicting the “what,” meaning what the problem is; they must proactively get ahead of the “so what,” find the root of the problem and explore how to solve it. As an example, it is not enough for them to know bill confusion is the main driver of call center traffic – the “what” but understand what led to the bill confusion in the first place – the “so what” – and how to prevent it. In getting there, it’s worth remembering that not all friction is bad if you prepare for it. However, preventing confusion will be more valuable to the customer than clarifying the bill for them.
With this proactivity in mind, it’s time to think about the “so what” and what’s next for CSPs to do after having reacted. What if CSPs asked their customer what parts of the bill they were confused about and then leaned into that confusion instead of skirting around the issue? If customers are confused about an unexpected fee, for example, then what’s next? CSPs should use this direct feedback to personalize the experience by breaking down the customer’s bill using step-by-step navigation that explains what has changed and why. This itemization of charges helps customers understand the “why” behind each charge with clear and contextual explanations that leave the customer informed and in the know about what’s coming. But CSPs shouldn’t stop there – if they understand the confusion and then engage with the customer, maybe they can create a better service offering that is tailored to their needs. CSPs should strive for a dynamic catalog of offers to direct the customer experience, seeking out personalized customer input for the customer engagement all consumers want.
Beyond running the analysis to identify issues, GenAI will also allow CSPs to prioritize outbound communication and interactions—the “what”— without adding extra work for human representatives for each engagement—the “so what”. Similar to how they can now hand off basic analysis work to GenAI, when employees have more time to focus on the tasks that give their work meaning, they are happier and more satisfied. GenAI allows them to do just that: offload more mundane tasks so they can devote their time and attention to more fulfilling projects. This means not just an improved customer experience, but a better employee experience overall. This combination of efficient analysis and employees who are focused wholly on customers will also prevent the faux pas of overstepping boundaries when it comes to personalization, which can turn customers off rather than add to the overall customer experience.
Proactivity + Personalization = A Happy Customer
Happy customers and improved employee efficiency have always been (and should continue to be) priorities for CSPs, but there is an additional benefit: the capacity for increased revenue. By using GenAI to its full potential, CSPs can get to the heart of customers’ needs quicker, which will increase loyalty, drive new promotions and create market differentiation. As always, the bottom line for the bottom line is customer experience, and a happy customer has always resulted in a competitive advantage.
The game is changing for CSPs. GenAI, when used correctly, will become the tool that lets CSPs predict and tackle customer needs before they even realize they have them—it’s like having a crystal ball for customer satisfaction. And it’s not just about keeping customers happy; employees also get to break away from mundane tasks and focus on what really matters. By understanding the “so what” behind customer problems and being proactive with innovative solutions, CSPs aren’t just in the business of happy customers – they’re on the road to increased revenue and a leg up against competition.
#2024#ai#Analysis#Analytics#approach#attention#billion#Business#call center#change#communication#communications#consumers#crystal#CSG#CSP#CSPs#customer data#customer engagement#customer experience#data#data intelligence#efficiency#employees#Evolution#friction#Full#game#genai#generative
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The Power of Storytelling in Content Marketing
Want to make your content more impactful? 🎯 Discover how storytelling can transform your marketing, build trust, and create lasting connections with your audience. #ContentMarketing
The Power of Storytelling in Content Marketing Written By: that Hannah Jones Time to Read: 4 minutes In today’s saturated digital landscape, businesses are constantly vying for attention. But while eye-catching visuals and SEO techniques can drive clicks, they don’t necessarily keep readers engaged or create a lasting impact. This is where storytelling shines. Storytelling goes beyond simply…
#Audience Engagement#audience-focused content#authentic brand voice#authentic storytelling#brand loyalty strategies#brand storytelling#building brand trust#connection-driven content#content creation tips#content marketing ideas#content marketing impact#content marketing strategies#customer journey storytelling#customer-centered marketing#effective content strategies#emotional connection in marketing#engaging content#engaging your audience#humanizing your brand#marketing with empathy#memorable marketing#powerful marketing techniques#relatable marketing#story-driven content#storytelling examples#storytelling for business#storytelling framework#storytelling in marketing#storytelling techniques#storytelling tips
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StreamBuilder: our open-source framework for powering your dashboard.
Today, we’re abnormally jazzed to announce that we’re open-sourcing the custom framework we built to power your dashboard on Tumblr. We call it StreamBuilder, and we’ve been using it for many years.
First things first. What is open-sourcing? Open sourcing is a decentralized software development model that encourages open collaboration. In more accessible language, it is any program whose source code is made available for use or modification as users or other developers see fit.
What, then, is StreamBuilder? Well, every time you hit your Following feed, or For You, or search results, a blog’s posts, a list of tagged posts, or even check out blog recommendations, you’re using this framework under the hood. If you want to dive into the code, check it out here on GitHub!
StreamBuilder has a lot going on. The primary architecture centers around “streams” of content: whether posts from a blog, a list of blogs you’re following, posts using a specific tag, or posts relating to a search. These are separate kinds of streams, which can be mixed together, filtered based on certain criteria, ranked for relevancy or engagement likelihood, and more.
On your Tumblr dashboard today you can see how there are posts from blogs you follow, mixed with posts from tags you follow, mixed with blog recommendations. Each of those is a separate stream, with its own logic, but sharing this same framework. We inject those recommendations at certain intervals, filter posts based on who you’re blocking, and rank the posts for relevancy if you have “Best stuff first” enabled. Those are all examples of the functionality StreamBuilder affords for us.
So, what’s included in the box?
The full framework library of code that we use today, on Tumblr, to power almost every feed of content you see on the platform.
A YAML syntax for composing streams of content, and how to filter, inject, and rank them.
Abstractions for programmatically composing, filtering, ranking, injecting, and debugging streams.
Abstractions for composing streams together—such as with carousels, for streams-within-streams.
An abstraction for cursor-based pagination for complex stream templates.
Unit tests covering the public interface for the library and most of the underlying code.
What’s still to come
Documentation. We have a lot to migrate from our own internal tools and put in here!
More example stream templates and example implementations of different common streams.
If you have questions, please check out the code and file an issue there.
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Better Not Pout*
Summary: The one where Harry isn't leaving until he gets what he really came for.
You.
Word Count: 10.6k
Content Warning: 18+, smut, violence, guns, gunplay, exhibitionism (This one-shot is a bit darker, so please only read if you feel comfortable! 💞)
December 24th, 1945.
The streets of Chicago are cold. Windy. Dark. Everyone is either at home, visiting loved ones, or spending their Christmas Eve at the one place they know they’ll be welcome.
The Bees Knees – the renowned, underground speakeasy – is rather sparkling tonight. The customers continue to bustle in, some here for the booze, some here for the atmosphere and warmth, and some for the entertainment.
You.
You’re one of the establishments best performers, three nights of the week. Employed by none other than Johnny Winters himself to sing for the lost souls of Chicago as they drown their worries in a bottle of whiskey.
You quite like your job, and the people you work with. Milton, who tends the bar, always has a compliment to lend, offering you engaging small talk between sets or any new mixes he might make.
And Johnny isn’t so bad. But perhaps you’re a bit biased, seeing as he is your fiancé. But more than that, he’s one of the most powerful men in all of town. And considerably wealthy, which you suppose doesn’t exactly hurt.
But he’s also kind. Giving. And so very attentive. He spends every second he’s not working with you. Doting on you, showing you off to all of his friends. And having such a handsome man on your arm is certainly not the worst thing.
Tonight, however, Johnny is nowhere to be found. Which you don’t consider to be too terribly odd, given how much work he mentioned he’d be catching up on.
Even still, he hates to miss your performances, and insisted that you keep a part of him with you as you take center stage tonight in the small bar.
That part happens to be in the form of a stunning red, silk dress that was gifted to you for this very occasion. It sits on your frame like it was always meant to be yours, hugging every desirable curve, and showcasing just enough skin to taunt the imagination of those in the audience.
You don’t think you’ve ever felt so beautiful, and you walk up the steps tonight with pride. Shoulders back and painted lips poised with your first song.
The few gentlemen scattered across the main floor holler when the spotlight finds you, and you offer your signature smile.
“Evening, gentleman,” you call as the pianist begins behind you. “How are you all doing tonight?”
A few whistles are offered that make you laugh, and just like that…the show begins.
Santa Claus Came in the Spring is always a favorite, and you croon the festive lyrics while the live band follows your lead.
And even though the crowd is rather dull and distracted, you have a blast. You feel comfortable in this role and in the way their eyes drink you in. Even if their attention drifts between you, their drinks, and the cigars.
In fact, you get so swept up in your act that you hardly notice the door open or the tall, lanky stranger that slinks in from the cold.
But when his head lifts, and his eyes find yours, you feel a hitch in your throat.
Unfortunately, he looks away all too quickly, pulling off his trench coat before moving along the shadows toward the far end of the bar.
He goes unnoticed by those around him, yet your attention follows him all the way to the booth that he settles in. And it stays even after he’s leaned back, gotten comfortable, and pulled a cigarette from his rather expensive looking suit pocket.
But even though your focus has drifted, you don’t miss a single beat of the song. After all, you could sing it in your sleep, and this habit serves you well as the intriguing stranger finally shifts into the light and allows you a better look at his face.
He’s…stunning. Absolutely beautiful, with his slicked back curls, sharp jaw, and pointed nose. And he’s lighting the end of a cigarette with what you can only call practiced precision before perching it between his two, crimson-colored lips.
Rings adorn his fingers as he holds the nicotine to his mouth, inhaling a long drag before exhaling the dark smoke from his lungs.
Yet unlike the other patrons in the bar, this man seems to be rather put together. He’s not missing any teeth, his skin isn’t stained with dirt or grease, and his clothes appear to be rather new. It’s quite the upgrade from the usual appearance you’ve grown used to, and you can’t help but feel rather relaxed.
And it’s now that you realize that this striking stranger seems to be watching you much like you’re watching him. Studying your dress, your silhouette, the way you grip the microphone stand. He takes in each detail presented before him with what looks to be wonder, and your cheeks instantly grow warm.
Still, you carry on with the ballad, making your way through the final chorus and the last few notes as the band plays you out with a flourish.
The few men in front of the stage clap, and you smile gratefully as you nod your thanks and call out your appreciation.
Jingle Bells is next, and a few more people join in on the fun this time around. They clink their glasses together or belt out the lyrics a few seconds too late and wildly off-key.
Even still, it’s rather fun as you continue on with your set before finally wrapping it up with a high note that’s accompanied by a rather lively trumpet solo.
And once it’s all over, the room bursts into applause. You wave to the growing audience, taking a quick bow before gesturing toward the band. Offering them their due praise which the crowed quickly obliges.
But you notice the man in the booth keeps his expression indifferent as he continues to watch you exit the stage and make your way to the bar. He doesn’t applaud your performance or even offer a smile of encouragement. He merely takes another hit of his cigarette and throws his arm over the back of his seat. A position you imagine is intended to display dominance more than it is to find comfort.
Truth be told, you find it rather unnerving. He doesn’t seem to be here for the alcohol or the company. Perhaps he’s only here to get out of the cold or perhaps he’s avoiding his home.
Either way, his focus stays only with you, and you feel a sharp chill run down your spine as you turn to the counter and flag down Milton’s attention.
You ask for a drink and request that he tell Johnny that you’ll be waiting in his office until he arrives.
He quickly agrees, preparing the beverage for you before jutting his chin toward the silent stranger.
“Want me to have him escorted out?” he asks, but you only smile as you shake your head.
“No need, I’m sure he’s harmless.” You take the crystal glass and tip it toward him in thanks. “Besides, the attention is rather nice.”
Milton nods his understanding and you leave it at that, taking your drink toward the hallway just off the corner of the room.
You sip leisurely as you stroll to Johnny’s office, picking up the edge of your long gown so it doesn’t drag on the floor. The sounds of the crowd grow quieter and quieter with each step you take, and soon, it’s nothing but silence.
After retrieving the key Johnny insisted you keep on you at all times, you slip open the door, and make your way inside.
It’s quite dark, given the time of night and lack of lighting. He’s only got three lamps in the room, one by the window, one on the shelf, and one on his desk.
Right beside a photo of you.
Getting your photograph taken is quite the privilege, but Johnny insisted he have a vision of you in his office at all times. And you couldn’t help but indulge him, allowing him to dress you up and place you in front of the large contraption one Sunday afternoon in spring.
It’s his favorite thing in the entire world, and he mentions it constantly. Commenting on your beauty or your ethereal outfit. You know he’s only trying to embarrass you, but it’s still rather flattering to hear.
You grin to yourself as you take a seat in the large chair behind the wooden table. Downing the rest of the contents in your glass before setting it down and taking a glance around the large space.
Vaguely, you hear footsteps approaching just outside the door. Echoing through the hall as your grin grows a bit wider.
And as the knob turns, you expect to see the handsome face of your Johnny.
What you don’t expect, however, is the green-eyed devil and his quiet charm.
He’s followed you. You assume this immediately, and your heart leaps into your throat as he steps inside…and shuts the door behind him.
A tense silence settles between you as you slowly sit up and force in a quiet breath. “Hello,” you call quietly.
The sound of your unsteady voice seems to amuse him, the corner of his mouth curling up as the burning cigarette sits tucked between his lips. “Hello, mama.”
You feel your lashes flutter. “Can…can I help you?”
“I’m looking for your fiancé,” he says, and his voice is low. Deep. And you believe you catch just a hint of an English accent. “This is in fact his office, is it not?”
You hesitate, unsure whether or not to disclose such information to a stranger. “It…yes. Yes, but he’s not here right now. Perhaps you could come back later?”
“Later,” he repeats, almost thoughtfully as his head tilts. Then, he tsks. “See, I’m afraid later just doesn’t work for me. I need to speak with him right now. It’s quite urgent, and I’d like to finish this up and be home to my lover by midnight.”
“Oh…” You shift a bit in your seat and hope he doesn’t notice how nervous you’ve become. “Well, I would love to help, but I don’t believe I know when he’ll be in.”
He considers this for a moment before striding further into the room. Eyes tracking every tremble of your fingers and heave of your chest. “Can I tell you a secret, mama?” he murmurs, placing both hands on the desk and leaning closer.
You nod.
“Your boy Johnny owes me money,” he whispers. “And I’m here to collect.”
And now you understand. Now you know why he’s here. Because even though his tone is friendly, it can’t disguise the threat you know lingers underneath.
“Oh,” you whisper back, and he hums.
“Exactly. And I’m a pretty reasonable guy. Decent. So, I’ll make you a deal.” He begins to smirk behind the cigarette. “If he’s not here within the next five minutes…you and I will find another way.”
The truth is, you don’t really know too much about the financial side of Johnny’s affairs and business. You know he has plenty of money, but you don’t know what he does with it. Or where he keeps it.
And if this alluring stranger seems to think you’ll be his key…you’re afraid he’ll be mistaken.
“Problem, Doll?” He seems smug, and it makes your skin crawl. “M’not scaring you, am I?”
The answer is obvious to you both, but you force yourself straighter and attempt to appear calm. “Not at all, sir. I only want to help.”
"Mm? Good girl,” he mumbles, eyes flicking down to your painted red lips. “Knew you’d behave for me.”
Your heart is hammering inside of your chest. You’re unsure what to do now. Do you ask him to leave? Do you scream for help? Do you call the police?
And where the hell is Johnny?
He should be here by now, especially after promising to wrap up his meeting early in order to catch your last performance before Christmas. He’s always here. One of your biggest fans and greatest protectors.
The only thing you can truly think to do now is attempt to call him. You figure the police won’t get here in time, but at least if this gentleman can be assured that Johnny is on his way, he won’t be as inclined to act rashly.
However, the moment your fingers lift from the desk in order to reach for the phone, the stranger reaches for something, too.
In a matter of seconds, he’s wrapping his hand around the barrel of a gun, pulling it from his back pocket, and aiming it straight at your head. Cocking it loudly as you gasp and withdraw your arm as quickly as possible.
“What are you doin’, hm, mama?” There’s a haughty condescension in his sneer, laced with just the faintest disappointment. “Thought you were gonna be good.”
“I…I was just going to call him,” you stammer. “I know you’re in a hurry.”
The stranger studies you now, that familiar smirk beginning to fade as his attention flicks across your face. Perhaps he suspects a lie or perhaps he merely doesn’t trust you, but truth be told, you know better than to try and pull a fast one on him.
Finally, he plucks his cigarette from between his lips before tossing it to the floor and nodding at you. “Yeah? Go on, then,” he instructs, reposition the barrel at your chest. “Call your little pretty boy. Tell him he’s got a visitor.”
With a racing pulse, you once again slowly reach for the telephone, eyeing the gun carefully as you scoot closer.
You’re careful not to make any sudden moments. Hesitant to even look at him for fear of upsetting him, but your timid demeanor only entertains him further.
He simply chuckles as he slowly makes his way over to your side of the desk. Snatching up the phone just before you can reach for it and handing it to you almost cockily.
Curious, you glance up. That soft green in his eye is almost alluring, even despite the circumstance. Still, he reeks of nicotine and expensive cologne, and you lean back in an attempt to put as much space between you as you can.
He smiles. “I’m gonna watch you dial,” he tells you calmly. “Make sure you keep your word. Okay, Doll?”
Posed like a question, although you both know you don’t exactly have a choice. And you'd likely point this out if you were just a touch braver, but nevertheless, you nod. Agreeing to his terms as you take the phone and begin to dial.
As the seconds go by, you feel him watching you closely while the line rings. Leaving you to desperately await the sound of your sweet Johnny’s voice. A sound you’ve never needed more than in this moment.
Yet his voice never comes, and your heart sinks to the cold floor blow as you return the phone to the desk.
“He…he must already be on his way,” you murmur, and the man hums.
“You think so?”
You nod weakly.
He takes a seat on the edge of the desk, just inches from your arm before leaning closer. “How much are you willing to bet, hm?” His brow raises. “How sure are you that your precious fiancé will actually save you tonight?”
You feel trapped by him now. The closer he moves, the faster your heart pounds. You have nowhere to run, no personal space to disappear into.
But you only have to hold on for just a little longer. Johnny will come for you. He always does.
“Incredibly sure,” you respond, ignoring the slight waver in your voice. “He said he would be, so he will.”
The man considers this before clicking his tongue. “All right. Then how about I make you another deal, yeah? For every minute he’s late, and for every minute he leaves you here unattended…I’ll put an extra bullet through his head.”
A sharp chill runs down your spine, skin growing hot and prickly, but you force your expression to remain unfazed. “And why would you do that if you need him so badly?”
The gentleman laughs now. A sound that would almost be charming if he weren’t so vile. “Because I don’t need your precious Johnny,” he answers calmly. “I just need what’s in his safe.”
And despite the danger you’re in and despite your better judgment, your features scrunch into a grimace as you scoff, “Oh, how pathetic.”
Your reaction loosens his smile.
“Truly, how incredibly pathetic to come all the way down here at this time of night – and on Christmas Eve – just to break into his safe,” you huff. “Honestly. He won’t give you a damn thing. And you have absolutely no business to come storming in here and—”
You don’t get the chance to finish the rest of your furious scolding before he’s suddenly standing to his feet and wrapping his fingers around your arm.
Instantly, you’re yanked from your chair and shoved against the bookcase just behind you. Hard enough to knock the wind from your lungs as he traps you there, leaning in so close, his nose nearly brushes your own.
“I’d be careful how you fucking speak to me, mama,” he seethes quietly, yet even still, there’s just an air of pleasure. “Because you might not get the chance to do it again.”
He’s desperate to scare you. Desperate to see you cry, but you refuse to give him the satisfaction.
Instead, you suck in a sharp breath, and do the one thing you can think to do:
You spit.
The collection of saliva just misses his eye, landing on his cheek with a rather wet splat until the amusement fades and fury takes its place.
His fingers leave your arm and find your throat, curling around the delicate skin and forcing your head up as he begins to chuckle darkly.
“So, that’s how you wanna play, hm, Doll?” Another tsk. “You wanna be bad? Wanna test my fucking patience?”
You squirm a bit in his hold, yet for some reason, you don’t feel as frightened as you did before. Because there’s this look in his eye – this hunger. And even though his grip is tight…you feel oddly safe.
“Better find a way to keep this pretty little mouth shut,” he says next, head cocking to the left almost curiously. “Or I’ll have to shut it for you.”
His attention returns to your mouth, fingers slowly slipping up toward your chin until he can brush is thumb over the painted fibers of your lips.
Just enough to taunt you yet startle you all in the same second.
“Maybe,” you finally breathe before jerking your head away from his cruel touch. “If you knew how.”
The cocky grin widens as his hand immediately returns to your neck. “Still disobeying me, hm?” he nearly purrs. “Guess I could always just squeeze this sweet, little throat to keep you quiet, yeah? Feel your pretty pulse beneath my fingertips. Feel the life drain from your body…watch the light go out in your eyes.”
You take in a strained inhale, and he makes a sound that almost sounds like a groan.
“Yeah,” he murmurs, moving in just a bit closer until his lips are ghosting across yours. “Or maybe…I could put my gun in your mouth. See how chatty you are then, yeah, mama?”
Your chest heaves anxiously, but you find just enough confidence to whisper, “But without your gun, how will everyone know what a tiny cock you have?”
And you’re so proud of yourself. So endlessly pleased with the way you’ve managed to make his smug expression waver, even if he keeps his smirk in place.
“Oh, you think that’s funny,” he snorts as you attempt to bite back a laugh. “Well, you wanna know what I think is funny? I think it’s funny that you said Johnny would be here…and he’s not.”
“He will be,” you retort, a bit firmer. “He will.”
“See…you keep saying that,” he muses, placing one hand on the bookshelf beside your head. Truly trapping you beneath him. “And yet…your noble fiancé still isn’t here to save you.”
You tilt your head back in an attempt to appear stronger, but it doesn’t seem to fool him.
“Are you afraid?” he whispers, chest brushing against yours. “Are you afraid your Johnny won’t be able to keep you safe from the bad man?”
It’s almost hostile, the way he goads you. And yet you can hear just the slightest concern beneath his question.
“Or maybe you’re afraid he can’t pay up,” he continues. “Maybe you’re afraid he’ll have to find another way.”
Suddenly, the grip on your throat constricts. Recapturing your attention.
“Are you gonna be my other way, mama?” he exhales. “You gonna be my consolation prize?”
You feel dizzy. The room is spinning. And you aren’t sure if that’s because of the hold on your neck or the way he’s speaking to you.
However, before you can decide if you’re actually intrigued by his intimidation tactics…the sound of footsteps echo outside through the hall.
Johnny.
It has to be him. You almost need it to be him, and your shoulders unwind as the man glances toward the closed door curiously before finally leaning back.
Then, he grabs onto your arm for a second time, and flings you back toward the chair. Shoving you down and keeping you still.
“You’re gonna sit here and you’re gonna keep your fucking mouth shut,” he hisses softly right as the door swings open. “And then maybe…I just might reward you.”
But you don’t even mind this malicious threat because then you see him. Your fiancé, smiling brightly as his eyes find you before they flick to the man to your right.
For a moment, he seems surprised, seemingly assessing your position and the situation before his grin widens.
“Ah, Mr. Styles,” he calls as he strides into the room, quickly removing his hat and coat. “What a pleasant surprise. Did we have a meeting tonight?”
He seems relaxed. Almost too relaxed, as though he doesn’t view this man as a threat, and you aren’t sure whether to feel relieved or wildly confused. You hadn’t exactly expected him to grab the mysterious guest by the collar and throw him out the window, but you also didn’t expect him to welcome him with open arms.
A strange man is alone with his future wife, in his office, in the middle of the night, and that doesn’t seem to concern him even a little?
Perhaps Johnny is far too friendly for his own good.
The gentleman, in turn, straightens up while subtly slipping the gun behind his back. Tucking it into his belt just out of view before Johnny can catch it. “Not quite,” he says coolly. “I’m here to discuss a bit of unfinished business.”
Your heart sinks, yet Johnny merely nods. “Ah, I see. Well, is there any way this can wait until after Christmas? It’s been a long night, and I’d like to be getting the lovely lady home.”
Now, both of their stares turn to you, and eagerly, you begin to rise from the chair. Grateful for the opportunity to leave this unsettling stranger behind.
Yet before you can even find your footing, the man’s hand is coming down in a firm smack on your shoulder to force you back down.
“I’m afraid the lovely lady isn’t going anywhere,” he replies, and you catch Johnny’s expression fall. “And neither are you. Have a seat.”
Johnny begins to frown. “Look, Harry, whatever business we might have, I’m sure it can—”
“I said, have…a seat,” the man – Harry – repeats a bit brasher. “Yeah? Or things will get a lot worse for your darling fiancé.”
Johnny hesitates, eyes flicking to yours. But he must notice the panicked look you wear because he finally sighs and does as instructed. Taking a seat in the chair just in front of the desk before glancing toward Harry.
Harry nods, almost proudly. “There you go. S’not so hard, is it?”
Johnny’s figure slumps but his lips purse together. “What do you want?”
“Oh, I just want to talk,” Harry says, his smirk returning. “And lucky for you, your schedule just cleared up.”
“Harry—” Johnny begins, leaning closer as though getting ready to stand.
But instantly, Harry is reaching back behind him for the gun, pulling it free, and aiming the barrel straight at his head.
Johnny quickly leans back, eyeing the weapon hesitantly while you gasp and glance up at the stranger pleadingly.
Harry only looks at Johnny. “See, I’m running out of fucking patience. Eight goddamn months I’ve had to listen to you go on and on about this special fucking shipment you got. And now…it’s time to collect.”
Your sweet fiancé understands now. Realizes why this man is here and how real the threat is, and glances back at you almost apologetically.
You merely mouth, “It’s okay.”
Johnny’s eyes flick back to the gun. “I’d be careful waving that thing around. Somebody might get hurt.”
The man merely hums. “Oh, I’m fucking counting on it.”
Now, the office grows quiet. A tense, charged sort of energy that filters between the three of you as Harry begins to walk around the desk.
“So,” he continues, grabbing onto the other free chair in order to spin it around and sit in a straddle, “where’s the safe, Johnny?”
Johnny’s brow raises, but his Adam’s apple bobs with a thick swallow. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”
“Sure you do. Down at the club, you said you just got a brand new, fancy safe to hold everything from your latest shipment. Practically bragged about it to the whole goddamn bar, yeah? So…where is it?”
With piqued interest, you look between the two men curiously as you await Johnny’s answer. You’ve never really been sure where he gets all his money. You assumed most of it came from the bar and alcohol sales, so you’re rather stumped by what sort of shipment they might be referring to.
However, Johnny isn’t so quick to divulge all his secrets. “And what is it you’re expecting to get out of my safe, Mr. Styles?”
There’s another heavy pause as Harry rests his arms over the back of the seat and whispers, “Everything.”
Instantly, Johnny scoffs. “You think you can storm into my office on Christmas Eve and threaten my fiancé? Threaten me? That you’re entitled to anything you damn well please?” A bitter scoff as he leans back. “You’ll be arrested before morning, and you’ll never see a red fucking cent.”
His retort dangles between them for only a moment as a breath catches in your throat. Pulse racing as you watch the stranger’s reaction closely.
Yet the mystery man doesn’t so much as flinch as he suddenly repositions the gun into the air, aims it just to the left of Johnny’s head, and fires.
The sound is deafening, much like your sharp, shrill shriek as the bullet flies through the air – just missing Johnny’s ear – and lodges into the wall behind him.
Johnny immediately flinches, eyes screwing shut and muscles recoiling before he seems to realize that he remains unharmed.
And once he does, he takes a deep breath, and begins to smirk. “You missed.”
“Did I?” Harry runs his tongue over his bottom lip before re-cocking the gun. “No, see…I never fucking miss. That was your first warning.”
Johnny simply snorts. “Yeah? Well, eat my shit.”
Things move quickly from there.
Harry is instantly on his feet, tossing the chair aside rather angrily before he’s turning to you once more. And you don’t even have a moment to think before you’re being yanked from the seat for a second time and immediately tugged to his chest as he presses the barrel of the gun into the side of your temple.
“Where’s the fucking safe, Johnny?” he says again, and you notice Johnny’s face pale.
“Styles,” Johnny murmurs, “you don’t have to do this—”
“The safe,” he seethes. “Where is it? Or do you need a little incentive, huh? Need to see her pretty little brains all over your goddamn floor? Is that what it’s gonna take?”
Poor Johnny doesn’t know what to do. He looks from the gun, to your face, to the arm keeping you hostage.
And you almost feel bad for him, yet you aren’t even afforded the chance for empathy before Harry furiously growls and shoves you in Johnny’s direction.
You stumble across the wooden floor until Johnny can quickly take you into his embrace, keeping you safe from the bad man as you begin to sniffle.
“My love,” he whispers, tightening his hold on your trembling frame while turning you away as if to protect you. “It’s gonna be all right, I promise.”
With a quick nod and a hiccup, you look up and slip your hands around his neck for comfort. “I know.”
He smiles.
It’s Harry’s disgusted sneer that brings you attention back. “Fucking pathetic. Really, mama? This is who you choose to save you?”
Your features fall ever-so-slightly while Johnny begins to pull you behind him, shielding you from the aggravated aggressor. “If you need money so badly, there are plenty of other ways.”
“It’s not just about money,” Harry retorts calmly. “It’s about your money. Yeah? So where’s the fucking safe.”
“None of your goddamn business—”
The reply no sooner leaves his mouth before there’s another gunshot fired into the air.
One of the paintings on the wall falls with a crack and you jump almost two feet into the air, nails scratching down Johnny’s nice shirt.
“Johnny,” you whisper faintly, refusing to let this go on any longer. “Johnny, tell him. Tell him, please. I don’t care about the money; I don’t care about any of it. I just want you. I love you, and I can’t lose you.”
The office falls silent as you request hangs in the air, and you feel Johnny take in a deep breath.
“Yeah, Johnny,” Harry adds in a condescending murmur. “She loves you. Don’t make her watch you die. It’d be such a shameful waste of her tears.”
Johnny looks to you, and your expression softens. “It’s okay,” you tell him. “It’s okay, I promise.”
Finally, he sighs. “Under the desk.”
Harry’s head whips toward the large table curiously before he frowns. “Where?” he murmurs before repositioning the gun at Johnny’s chest. “I promise you don’t wanna lie to me.”
However, Johnny’s indifferent expression remains. “Under the desk,” he repeats while thrusting his chin toward the massive piece of furniture.
And now Harry seems to understand, although it does little to relax him as he suddenly reaches for you again and yanks you from your lovers’ arms.
“Show me,” he hisses, keeping you hostage again while ushering Johnny forward with the barrel of the weapon. “And don’t be dense.”
And Johnny can do nothing but obey, seemingly defeated while sending you one last remorseful look. Finally moving to lift the desk and pull it back.
The sound of wood scraping against wood is heavy, and it takes him quite a while to relocate the table beneath the window by himself.
But once it’s out of the way, you notice a particular part of the flooring juts out. The rotten board almost askew.
You and Harry lean closer, both magnetized by intrigue as he bends down in order to wrench the board up, revealing the hollow hiding place underneath.
And there you find it. The large, black box with a gold dial in the middle.
He glances up toward Harry, perhaps looking for permission – which Harry quickly gives him – before reaching down to put in the correct combination.
And after a couple seconds of clicking and turning…the door swings open.
Truth be told, you were hoping to find a secret gun that might help you out of this situation, but it seems there are no weapons to be found as Harry shoves you back in order to get a better look.
He no longer seems concerned about Johnny or the possibility that he might attempt to attack because Johnny seems to have given up.
All your dejected fiancé does is straighten up and motion you back to him, watching Harry bend over and reach inside the safe almost uninterestedly.
Your heart aches for him, yet you can’t help feeling relieved. You’re a few steps closer to this wretched night being over, and perhaps once Harry has what he came for, you’ll be able to leave.
“Are you all right?” Johnny whispers to you now as Harry begins to unload the contents in the floor.
You nod quickly, clinging to his strong frame as though you’re scared you might be taken again. “Yes, I’m all right. Are you?”
“I will be once I know you’re safe,” he says, and your heart sinks.
Once everything inside the safe has been shoved into a bag, Harry turns to the two of you. “That was a good start, Winters. Now where’s the rest of it?”
Johnny frowns. “I don’t know what you mean. Everything I have is in there.”
But Harry only tsks as he sets the items down and begins to stride closer, making you curl even further into Johnny’s embrace. “Come on, now,” he mumbles almost tauntingly. “You know what I really want. And you know that you’re gonna fucking tell me. Isn’t that right, mama?”
He looks to you for only a moment as you swallow.
Johnny begins to seethe. “No. No, you can have everything else, but you won’t touch that.”
“Johnny,” you try, unnerved by the sudden look of warning in Harry’s eye. “Johnny, please…just give it to him. Whatever it is, I don’t care, just…just make him leave.”
“Smart girl,” Harry adds. “Come on, Johnny boy, your darling fiancé is scared. Don’t you wanna save her?”
Your lover simply grows stiff, eyes narrowing at the faux sincerity in the stranger’s voice.
“Johnny,” you mumble again. “Johnny, please, he’s right. I’m scared and I don’t care about what you have or what you don’t have. I just want you. And I want him to go away.”
Still, Johnny wrestles with his decision. With the choice he’s being forced to make, and as the seconds go by, Harry’s patience reaches its limit.
He grabs for you – again. Forcing the weapon under your jaw this time around as Johnny’s muscles tense and his fingers curl into his fist.
“God, look at him,” Harry whispers to you now, lips ghosting up the shell of your ear while forcing your eyes on your fiancé. “Fucking look at your pathetic excuse for a man.”
You attempt to remain indifferent – appear unafraid – but he sees right through you.
“D’you really think he cares about you, Doll?” he murmurs. “Do you really think he’ll choose your life over his own?”
“Let her go,” Johnny barks, yet it only forces the barrel even further into your skin.
Your chin is tilted up, a sharp inhale getting caught in your throat until Harry begins to chuckle.
“How about this,” he says. “I’ll let you choose, mama. I’ll let you decide if he gets to watch me kill you…or if he gets to watch me take you. All for myself.”
“Fucking piece of shit—” Johnny hisses, but Harry simply tsks.
“So, what do you say? What’ll it be? Either way, I’ll have him on his goddamn knees by the end of the night. And then we all win, yeah?”
“Enough,” Johnny yells, and a strangled silence splits the air. “Fine. Fine, I’ll tell you. Just let her go.”
Harry’s arm begins to lower but not very far. “Once it’s in my hand, she’s all yours.”
And you want to resent these men for treating you like you’re some sort of object to be traded, yet you’d happily be given back to your lover if it meant you could leave this nightmare behind.
No matter the cost.
Johnny rolls his shoulders back and flicks his unrelenting stare back to his desk. “There. The picture.”
You feel your eyebrows raise while Harry slowly begins to loosen his hold on you.
“Get it,” he instructs, and with an aggravated sigh, Johnny obliges.
He retrieves the golden frame from the table before pulling open the back and removing the picture inside.
The picture of you.
It almost breaks your heart, the look on his face. Like he’s absolutely gutted to be defiling this memory of you both, and you ache to comfort him.
Once the photo has been plucked from the glass, you catch the faintest sparkle in the soft light of the moon, and hear yourself gasp.
There, sitting snug inside the small frame, is the biggest fucking diamond you’ve ever seen.
It’s…stunning. The most gorgeous jewel you’ve ever been privileged to lay eyes on, surrounded by what you can only assume to be hundreds of tinier diamonds and rubies arranged in a delicate but intricate pattern.
Altogether creating the most breathtaking necklace you’ve ever seen.
It has to be worth hundreds of dollars – thousands, in fact – and Harry reaches over to take it from the frame with the biggest Cheshire-like grin you’ve ever seen.
This is what he came for.
“You have it, all right? You have it, now go,” Johnny calls, already attempting to reach for you. “You got what you want.”
With an agreeable hum, Harry studies the necklace a moment longer before finally looking to you. “You’re right. We did, didn’t we?”
You both smile.
Instantly, you raise the gun that Harry had discreetly and secretly slipped into your hand only moments ago and aim it at Johnny’s chest.
Three.
Johnny’s expression shifts, eyes widening as he begins to piece together what’s really going on. Why Harry looks so proud and why you look so relieved.
Two.
His lips part. Ready to speak to you, whisper your name, ask for an explanation. And a part of you can’t help but wonder if you’ll feel any remorse for the deception you’ve put him through these past few months.
But as you stare at him now…you feel nothing but liberation.
One.
The third and final gunshot echoes through the air. Louder and far more permanent. Resolute.
Johnny stumbles back, unable to catch himself before he goes tumbling to the ground. A dark red stain expanding like watercolor across his chest, ruining the clean white shirt underneath.
You’d bought him that shirt.
And as the look of life slowly leaves his eye, you feel your muscles unwind, and your shoulders droop.
It’s over.
Harry’s got his arms around you before you can even release the deep breath you’ve been holding onto for so long.
“Oh, good fucking girl,” he nearly groans, pressing his lips to yours for the first time in months as you sling your arms around his neck. “Fucking hell, I missed you, mama.”
If Harry had had it his way, Johnny would have been dead months ago. He never liked this plan – not because he thought you couldn’t handle it, but because the idea of going without you for so long nearly killed him.
But it was the only way to gain Johnny’s trust. And to find his true weakness. He never would have given you the location of the safe or the necklace if you’d simply held him at gunpoint from the get-go.
No, he needed a reason to cave, a reason to put his possessions on the line in order to save something else he truly cared about.
And that’s where you came in.
Sure, it was hard to be without Harry, but you knew it had to be done. Getting these items would set you up for years. You’d never have to work in sleazy bars again. You could simply be with him…forever.
And perhaps pretending to be a stranger to him and appear frightened of his intentions wasn’t quite necessary, but you happen to like the roleplaying aspect.
The way he threatened your life as though he wouldn’t do everything in his power to protect it. The way he taunted you, teased you, scared you…when he knew deep down how much you fucking loved it.
You can still feel his fingers around your neck. The pressure of his hand against your throat, holding you still, keeping you close. You hadn’t felt it in months and a part of you wanted to keep the game going for just a bit longer if it meant you could have him.
You weren’t able to run into his arms and kiss him the way you can now and it’s…perfect. Absolutely perfect.
“Did he hurt you?” he whispers, leaving a trail of kisses along your jaw. “Did he fucking touch you—”
“No,” you’re quick to assure him. “No, never. He wanted to, but I never let him.”
“Good.” He takes hold of your hip and gives it a firm squeeze. “Good girl, knew you’d be on your best behavior, yeah?”
You grin. “Of course. Only ever thought about you.”
“Is that right, doll?”
“Mhm.” You tuck your lip between your teeth and nuzzle your nose to his. “How could it ever be him?”
His lashes flutter, and you can see the edges of his frayed sanity coming loose. He’s had to pretend for far too long, and you don’t imagine he can do it much longer.
“Yeah?” he murmurs, nearly clawing at your dress. “Then, maybe I’ll—”
“What…did you do?”
The sound of Milton’s confusion pulls you apart instantly. He’s standing in the doorway, eyes wide, expression horrified. Looking from his boss, to you, to Harry, and back.
He sees the necklace on the desk, sees the gun in your hand, sees the bag of gold and cash lying at Harry’s feet.
He understands, and your heart almost sinks. Milton was one of the good ones.
Quickly, Harry takes the weapon from you and points it in Milton’s direction.
Milton only leans back with a soft inhale while you turn to your lover and whisper, “No. No, not him.”
Harry’s pursed lips and furrowed brows never waver. “What?”
“Not him,” you repeat, as firmly as you can.
And he hesitates for only a moment before dropping the weapon and nodding his chin at you. “Grab the bag and go out the window.”
You nod your understanding before stealing one last glance at the bartender by the door.
He’s heartbroken and terrified…but his features grow softer as he finally mumbles, “…five minutes. I’ll give you five minutes.”
And you can’t help but smile.
You rush to grab what you came for and hurry to the window, with Harry right behind you. You don’t have a lot of time. Once Milton makes the call to the police, you’ll need to be far enough away that they can’t find you.
You know they’ll be looking. Know they won’t stop until they find you both – after all, they’ve been searching for you for years.
But you don’t mind a life that’s on the run, as long as it’s with him.
And the pleased smile he offers you now only confirms this.
You quickly lift the hem of your dress and begin over the ledge, with Harry right beside you to help. He takes your hand for support, keeping you steady until you can safely drop to the ground outside before he’s following suit.
The moment his feet hit the ground, you both run. The Chicago air is cold – frigid. You don’t have enough clothes to truly cover you and your feet are sore from having to wear these outrageous shoes all night.
But you somehow feel…alive. Invigorated and so very free. You have everything you’ve ever wanted.
You have him.
You both slip along the shadows as you make your way through town, leaving the speakeasy and Johnny Winters behind. After a minute or two, you hear the sirens in the distance, and the stakes are raised. They grow louder and louder the closer they get, and it’s then that Harry recaptures your hand and tugs you into a dark alleyway for cover.
This is where you stay until the cars have zipped down the street and proceeded without you. They don’t even think to look for you here and you’re rather impressed with your lover’s quick thinking.
Harry, however, isn’t as quick to revel in the success. Continuingly peeking around the corner in order to watch for anything unusual. Ignoring your amused laughter and giddy grin of accomplishment.
He’s on edge. Alert. Ready to run again if need be, and while you rather admire his practiced precision, you hope to put it to better use.
You drop the bag near the wall and make your way for him, palms quickly finding his cheeks in order to pull his attention to you.
He grunts. “What?”
But you don’t answer with words. You answer with a kiss. A kiss that makes your stomach flip and your mind grow fuzzy.
And this seems to be explanation enough as he groans with approval and wraps his arms around your middle to keep you against his chest. Nipping and licking at you as though his life depends on it.
Perhaps it does.
He shoves you back against the brick after only a few seconds, finding the leverage he needs in order to deepen the kiss and truly claim you. In a way he’d been desperate to the moment he saw you sitting in that office in such a beautiful dress.
“Trying to distract me, hm?” he murmurs, and you can’t help but smile. “Yeah? Or did you just need me that badly?”
He spins you around, pressing your cheek to the cold blocks of clay before dancing his fingers down your spine. Indulging in you.
It makes your insides twist.
You feel the hem of your dress gather in his fist as he finally gets a proper look at what he’s been missing for months. And the sound he makes goes straight to your cunt.
“You filthy fucking thing,” he whispers, rather delightedly while moving in to trail his mouth along your neck. “Look at you. Look at how perfect you are.”
His fingers find your pussy, stroking over your covered slit once or twice before plucking the covering from your hips and dragging it down your thighs.
“Just dripping for me, yeah? All fucking night.” He drags his palm up the inside of your leg. “Power makes you weak, doesn’t it, mama?”
You nod desperately, unable to answer with words.
But he understands, smirking to himself rather deviously before his hands are tangling in your hair in order to yank your head back. Just to hear you choke on a whine. “I’ve waited months for this. Yeah? M’gonna take my time with you…gonna make it worth it.”
And you don’t doubt that you will.
You nod again as the sound of his leather belt coming undone echoes between your ears. You’re trembling with anticipation, body aching for the feel of his cock. It’s been far too long, and you’ve nearly withered away without him.
You imagine he feels about the same, already fisting himself in one hand and readjusting your dress in the other. You hear him mumble something under his breath – you’re not quite sure what. But you suppose it doesn’t matter. He can say whatever he likes as long as he gives you what you need.
Normally, he’d take his time. He loves to make a show out of ruining you, but there’s no chance for that tonight. No patience. So, he kicks your feet apart, grabs your hip, and eases himself in all before you can take a breath.
And it’s perfect. Exactly the way you remember. The stretch, the scratch, the desperation. Nobody feels the way he does, and you both know it.
He’s still for a moment, merely pushing himself in and watching your pussy swallow him whole. As if so overcome by the sensation that he can’t do much else. As if losing control over his own body.
So, you push against his chest to remind him you’re here while your fingers reach back for his hair in order to tug it softly.
You feel him smile against your cheek. “All fucking night,” he whispers the moment he’s buried to the hilt. “Knew exactly what you were doing, didn’t you?”
You grin as well. You’re rather happy he noticed.
“Spitting in my fucking face,” he continues. “Challenging me. Acting like a fucking brat. S’all cause you were so fucking needy for me, wasn’t it, mama?”
“Maybe,” you can’t help but retort. “Maybe I knew you’d like it.”
He laughs now. A low, deep, sadistic sound from the back of his throat. Using his hold on your scalp to force your head into his shoulder. “Is that right, hm?”
You only nod.”
“Yeah? Then say it,” he hisses. “Tell me you missed me. Tell me you missed my cock. That nobody fucks you like I do—”
He accompanies this request with his first, sharp thrust. Pulling back only to drive himself in so hard, the air is nearly knocked from your lungs.
“Because they can’t, can they?” he coos, yet it’s angry. Fingers moving from your hair to your neck. Squeezing until you gasp. “Nobody knows how to treat this little pussy like I do. Do they?”
You fall mute. Going limp in his hold as the pleasure begins to build.
“You love it when I fuck you like this.” His nose presses to your cheek as he breathes, your delicate throat a plaything in his touch. “Love it when I kill for you. Love it when I make you mine—”
You gasp at the ecstasy, hardly able to hear him, but you wouldn’t have it any other way.
“You love me,” he murmurs, and you just about disappear into his embrace.
“I do,” you gasp, almost too loudly. “I do, Harry, please—"
“Quiet,” he hisses, glancing now toward the street in order to make sure the police haven’t found their way to you. “You know better than that. You’ll take me and you’ll do it quietly. Understood?”
Your only response is to whimper pitifully while your nails scratch down the brick walls of the alley.
In turn, he grasps onto your jaw, forcing your head to the side until your eyes can meet. “I said, is that fucking understood?”
“I thought you said to be quiet,” you can’t help but retort, and he hums.
“Oh, is that how you wanna play it?” He releases your throat only to take hold of your hips once more and spin you around between thrusts. Quickly returning to his place between your thighs before lifting one of your legs and hiking it around his waist.
“What…” you begin, chest heaving as the tip of his cock drags down your clit. “What are you—”
“Had to see you,” is his gritted response. “Had to see this pretty, bratty face as I ruined you.”
You imagine you’d smile if you weren’t so close to coming apart, but he understands. Pressing his forehead to yours before reaching up toward the top of your dress and ripping the fabric down to reveal your chest.
You can tell he’s been wanting to do this all night. Know he’s been ogling your tits from behind the expensive fabric since the moment he walked in, and truth be told, that’s the real reason you wore it.
Not because Johnny loves you in red.
But because Harry deserved to look at something pretty.
The cold air meets your skin with an unforgiving fervor, and you squirm against the brick as Harry’s eyes fall to the tattered fabric lying so pathetically on your chest.
Instantly, his head dips, mouth leaving open and sloppy kisses to the beautiful pair before him. Tongue stroking the hardened nipples rather respectfully, all things considered.
In turn, you run a hand through his dark curls as he does this to you. As you watch him take whatever he wants. Feeling the way his hair moves like butter between your fingers. The way he hums against you. The way his lashes flutter.
You’ve missed this.
Then, your grip tightens, and you yank his head up until his lips can meet yours. And you take. Take the taste of him, the taste of you, and the taste of victory.
His palm comes up to rest against the wall beside your head. Steadying himself as he works to find that perfect rhythm again. Over and over and over.
And all you can do is move your anxious kisses to his throat as he fucks into you. Whispering, “Nobody, baby. Nobody feels like you do. Nobody.”
Your fingers trail down his strong back, feeling each muscle that dips and flexes as he moves. The way he grunts when you scratch your nails down his spine. The way he consumes you and succumbs to you all at once.
Johnny was beautiful, but Harry is a beast. You’ve never seen a man like this before – never felt a man like this before. Every curve of his body is ethereal. Every detail, every touch.
Your touch continues to move lower and lower down his strong frame until you find something at the base of his spine.
And it makes you grin.
You slip it from his belt with ease, feeling the way it sits firmly in your hand as though it were made for it.
Harry doesn’t seem to notice. Or perhaps he just doesn’t care with the way he’s so deep into you. Emotionally, physically.
But he’s quickly pulled from his pleasured trance the moment he feels the familiar, cool touch of his gun sweeping across his jaw.
He stills. Straightening up ever-so-slightly, eyes finding yours.
But you’re too busy gazing at the barrel that dances across that beautiful face.
After all, he got to have his fun this evening.
Now it’s your turn.
You bring it to a stop just under his chin, tilting his head up exactly the way he’d done to you earlier as he releases a deep breath.
“Mama…” he warns, but you only hum.
This isn’t the first time this deadly weapon has made this an unofficial threesome, but it is certainly the first time you’ve been the one to wield it.
You hate guns. You do. But you love Harry’s. The way he holds it. The way he handles it. The way he uses great care and great power.
Because there’s something about seeing him with it. Seeing the way he controls it, controls the room. The way he holds someone’s life in the palm of his hand…
Perhaps you should be concerned by how enamored you are by it. By him.
But not tonight. Tonight, you simply enjoy.
And from the look in his eye, he seems to be enjoying it, too.
After all, you know he loved watching you use it on Johnny. Know he almost had you right then and there, on Johnny’s desk, before the mission was even through.
He’s endlessly pleased with you, and you can’t help but use this to your advantage.
So, with the weapon still taut to his clenched jaw, you lean forward and ghost your lips over his. “What’s the matter, Daddy? Does power make you weak?”
The twitch of his cock is answer enough.
You go in for the kill. With your fingers dancing over the trigger button, you lean back and dip down before dragging your tongue up the length of the barrel.
His eyes nearly roll back, and the sound that leaves his chest is euphoric. You think you might just kill him.
Because you’re slow. Meticulous. Licking every inch of the weapon until you finally reach the tip still tucked just beneath his chin.
Then…you kiss him.
And he’s so overwhelmed that he growls into your mouth, no longer threatened by the gun at his throat. Instead grabbing onto the back of your neck in order to squeeze it tight and keep you close. Devour you the way he’s been so frantic to.
You don’t even realize that you’ve begun to lower the gun until you feel it snatched from your grasp.
And pressed tightly to your clit.
The cold surface of the weapon against the warmest part of your body has you arching your back with a whimper. He has the upper hand once more, and he’s certainly not about to waste it. Mouth curling up into a satisfied, smug grin at the way your expression has gone hazy.
You’ve never looked at another man the way you look at him and he knows it.
“Is this what you wanted?” he asks softly, adding just enough pressure to make you whine. “All fucking night? The moment you saw me? Saw my gun? Wanted me to fuck you with it?”
Your nails meet your chest, scratching down the frigid skin in a desperate attempt to find something to ground you.
His only response is to drag the tip of the weapon down just a bit further. Until he can watch it glisten in you.
“Fucking looking at you,” he muses beneath a strained exhale, enamored by the way you subconsciously begin to grind on it. “So desperate to feel it. To be fucked by it. And what if I do, hm? What if I fuck you with my gun right here in this alleyway?”
You only whisper his name and an airy, “Please…”
“I thought about it,” he continues quietly, nose brushing yours as he slips the soaked barrel back up your cunt. “Thought about ripping off this pathetic little dress and fucking you right in front of your precious fiancé.”
You wish he had.
“You’d have liked that, wouldn’t you, mama?” His fingers drum against the handle. “Yeah? I know you would. Would have loved to watch him watch me.”
And he’s not wrong. He hardly ever is when it comes to your darkest fantasies, and it’s just one of the many reasons why you love him.
“But I had to wait,” he tells you now, finally pulling the gun away from your dripping clit until you nearly crumple to the cold concrete below. “Because after all this time…I’m the only thing that gets to fill you tonight, yeah?”
You simply nod again as he brings the gun back to your mouth with a proud grin.
And you know exactly what he wants, swiping your tongue all along the barrel and tasting every drop, every indication of your need for him. Swallowing it all as he watches proudly.
The moment you’re finished, he takes the gun and returns it to his pocket, tucking it away safely. Because he’s right again, and you need to feel him far more than you’ve ever needed anything else.
So, you grasp onto his face and bring his lips to yours, allowing him to pick up right where he left off.
Because as much as you love the power…you love being weak for him more.
At least in moments like this.
He fills you and fucks you until you’re dizzy. Until you can taste the pleasure and the unraveling.
You make a show of it. A way to apologize for all the time lost. Trailing the tips of your fingers along your own chest and down your sternum until you notice you have his attention.
He watches you take your tit into your palm before you’re tweaking the hardened nipple with a soft whine. Allowing your head to drop back into the wall while you do it again and again.
And he’s an angry sort of infatuated. Groaning almost pitifully before kissing you again and easily swatting your hand away in order to do it himself.
But that’s still not enough. So, you play your ace, and move your touch down to your clit in order to pinch it exactly the way he likes.
And it’s beautiful. The most exhilarating feeling, and this is what sends him over. The feel of your pussy clamping down on his cock, the sight of your fingers against your clit, the sound of your pathetic whimpers and pants as you cry out his name.
He fills you before he can stop himself, kissing you quickly as he releases into your aching, abused cunt.
Claiming you in more ways than one until you have no choice but to follow.
It rips you apart in the same way he ripped the dress. Until you see stars, and your back arches, and your toes curl. And everything makes sense.
He works to make it last for as long as he can, and once it’s all over, there’s a soft, tender moment of silence as you work to catch your breath.
You forget about everything else. The sirens, the lies, the deceit. Even Johnny. You forget about it all.
Because you got more than a diamond necklace tonight.
You got Harry back.
After a second or two more, you lazily reach up to sweep some of his rogue curls from his forehead. Wanting to really see his eyes as he holds you tonight.
“Harry?” you whisper into the cold, dark alley.
He hums. “Yes, mama?”
“I love you.”
And you’ve never seen him so happy. “I love you more,” he breathes, kiss you again as if to cement this vow.
Eventually, the moment comes to pass, and you have to drop your leg back down to the floor and part from him. You find that your muscles are sore, and just a touch achey, but you don’t even mind. Because it’s somehow just as deliciously pleasurable.
Harry works to readjust your dress and keep you covered; despite the way he’s ruin the expensive fabric. He offers you his jacket – insists on it. Wrapping it around your shoulders before you can even argue.
You smile as you snuggle into the warm material, feeling calmed by the familiar smell of him.
“There,” he says as he looks at you before his head tilts. “Just missing one thing.”
Curious, you watch as he slips his hand back into his pant pocket in order to fish something out.
The necklace.
He hadn’t told you about it before the mission. Only about the safe, and now you think you’re beginning to realize why.
He places it around your neck and readjusts the clasp until it can sit comfortably over your heart.
And you both look down as it sparkles from your chest, smiling together as though you truly can’t believe it’s real.
“You like it?” he whispers.
You grin so wide, your cheeks hurt. “I love it.”
He kisses you again, and it’s perfect.
Everything. All of it.
Him.
Suddenly, a loud toll echoes through the small town. The sharp chime coming from the clocktower in the town square.
Once, twice, three times.
Midnight.
“It’s Christmas,” you realize aloud as you and Harry both glance toward the clock.
His expression softens, and it makes your heart soar. “I guess it is.”
And then…you feel it. The first drop of something cold on your cheek. And then another. And another. And another. Gathering in your hair, getting stuck on his lashes.
Snow.
With a gasp, you look up into the dark sky as it dances down onto the quiet Chicago streets.
A rather perfect ending to a perfectly imperfect day.
And you wouldn’t have it any other way.
With a soft giggle, you curl yourself under his arm and press your lips to his cheek. “Merry Christmas, Harry.”
He laughs, and you’ve never been so happy.
“Merry Christmas, Mama.”
I'M SORRY THIS ONE GOT A BIT DARKER, IT WAS FUN BUT MOSTLY JUST FOR THE ERA ASPECT!! Thank you for reading if you did and letting me write something a little weirder 😭💞
~ Main Masterlist
Amazing divider by @firefly-graphics! 💞
Taglist: @walkingintheheartbreaksatellite @keepdrivingkisses @swiftmendeshoran @tiredinwinter @straightontilmornin @justlemmeadoreyou @harrysdaydreams @tiaamberxx @peterparker1sgf @myfavfanficsever @littlenatilda @vamprry @fdl305 @tchalametishot @ssaama @indierockgirrl @likeapplejuicenpeach @vane28282 @lukesaprince @closureesny @lc-fics @0nlythrowharrybeaux @hannahdressedasabanana @iguessyourejustwhatineeded @dylanobandposts21 @butdaddyilovehim-hs
#harry#harry styles#harry styles imagine#harry styles x reader#harry styles x you#harry styles fanfiction#harry styles blurb#harry styles fan#harry styles smut#harry edward styles#harry styles story#harry styles oneshot#harry styles mafia#mafiarry#mafia!harry#smut#1940s#chicago#harry and doll#better not pout#christmas#christmas oneshot
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a distinguished gentleman - t.w.
pairing: fem!reader x toto wolff
warnings: allusions to smut, mentions of oral (m! receiving), mentions of fingering (f! receiving), some cursing, lemme know if there's anything i missed, yadayadayada
a/n: this isn't necessarily a cohesive fic, more like a spitballing of the thots i have related to this topic. i hope y'all enjoy them hehehe <3 thank you to @chaerylecq for the inspo!!!
when it comes to driving, toto is the one who always offers.
after all, you are his passenger princess.
i feel like he wants you to be comfortable as possible in his car, so he always has a little makeup bag or cosmetics bag with deodorant, makeup remover, makeup wipes, perfume, etc., for you in case you ever need to touch up. he also has a plethora of hair accessories for you to use in case you ever need one. all you have to do is just reach in the glovebox, or he keeps the pouch in the center console for your convenience.
when he starts to drive, his hand is either resting comfortably on your thigh, or his fingers are intertwined with yours. for longer drives, he always offers for you to lay your legs on top of his. (even if it not necessarily the safest route)
his windows are tinted (duh) so there are numerous times in which his fingers are plunging into you, curling as they pump in and out. for clean up, he'll usually just have you suck on his fingers, groaning and cursing under his breath as your tongue laps at the juices.
if he can't wait until you make it home, he'll have your head bobbing, one hand clutching the wheel while the other is palming the back of your skull, applying pressure so that you'll go deeper and deeper. he prefers to keep the radio off, so the filthy, obscene noises will flood the intimate space. his desire to fuck you only soars by the second, his tip pressing deeper and deeper down your throat.
if he's desperate enough, he'll nearly swerve off to the nearest exit, pulling off in an enclave or parking lot. with his large stature, he typically has you ride him in the driver's seat, savoring the way your figure molds with his perfectly as the windows fog.
other times, he just wants to hear your voice, engaging you in deep conversation. there are a variety of topics, each with their own nuance and question he'll begin with. there's nothing more that he cherishes than drives with you, because he gets to build more and more emotional intimacy. getting to know you is one of his favorite things to do, so of course he's going to seize the opportunity.
he is the type of person to request kisses at stoplights, even if they are brief. there was one time he took you cruising along the brackley campus, purposefully stopping for as long as possible at the lights or signs, just so that he can get a smooch.
of course, you don't mind. you love him. oh so dearly. of course you're going to kiss him whenever the opportunity is presented.
also, you are the one who has the aux most of the time, your phone paired to the bluetooth the second you're in that passenger seat. he enjoys your taste in music, finding a new favorite song or two each time. sometimes he'll ask you to add the song to his personal playlist, not shy in the fact that he gets a lot of his new music from his girl.
whether it's cruises at night, enjoying the skylines of whichever city you're in, or countryside tours, you just love being in that passenger seat. there are times in which you tease that he needs to get that section of the dash engraved, customized with your name.
little do you know, he has that in the works.
not just for that car, but for every vehicle in his fleet.
#toto wolff#toto wolff x reader#formula 1#f1#formula 1 x reader#toto wolff x you#toto wolff x y/n#toto wolff smut#toto wolff fanfiction#formula one#toto wolff fanfic#toto wolff imagine#mercedes f1#mercedes amg petronas
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