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be-with-me-so-happily · 2 years ago

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Chapter 3

Series Summary: Gemma is definitely Cassidy James' favourite Styles family member, considering they are best friends and all. And especially considering that Harry Styles is Gemma's smug and self-centered younger brother. Her life isn't perfect, and neither is she, but she hates how everyone thinks Harry is. Because she knows that's not the case.

Chapter Summary: We all know Harry has a cheeky side, and the interview will be no exception. Except she isn't the only one asking questions. Also, the holidays are here, which brings up a lot of emotions for Cassidy.

Chapter Warnings: Some explicit language, unexpected pregnancy, alcoholic dad, degrading, domestic violence

[ flashback - Feb 2016 ]

"Fuck. Fuck. Fuck."

"It's gonna be okay."

"Okay? Are you kidding? Gemma, I'm fucking pregnant!" Cassidy retorts, throwing her face into her palms as she sits on the bathroom floor of her childhood home. "My dad's gonna kill me."

"It's not like you're fifteen though."

"Gem… it's my dad…"

"Right. Well, you don't… you don't have to tell them right away…" She gingerly suggests, and Cassidy wraps her arms around her knees, physically trying to hold herself together.

"I guess."

"Are you gonna tell the baby's father?"

Cassidy's body stiffens. She didn't even think about that part, that step in this sudden life-changing moment. She should have, but she didn't, and now everything feels twice as chaotic than it did when those two pink lines appeared on that pee stick.

"I… I have to. Right?"

Gemma is silent for a moment, scooting closer to her friend and wrapping her arm around Cassidy's shoulders.

"I can't answer that for you, CJ. You have to do what's right for you."

The problem is, she doesn't know what's right for her. And now, it's not just about her either. There's someone else involved. Someone she hasn't even met yet but needs to be taken care of, more so than herself. She also has to do what's right for him or her, and that is something she doesn't have an answer for at the moment.

"I… I don't…" She shakes her head as tears gather all across her lower lashes. "I don't know yet."

"Take some time." Her best friend responds, squeezing her into a tighter hug. "In the meantime, are you hungry, or at least craving anything? What can I get for you?"

"Oh god, yes. I really want some shortbread biscuits."

"That sounds good actually."

"And Marmite."

"Okay. No. You're on your own with that one."

Cassidy sighs. She knows what Gemma means, her statement is a comical one solely about the food choices she is craving, but she can't help taking it to a deeper level. She feels so alone.

"Hey, no, none of that. You're not actually alone." Gemma states, clearly picking up on the shift in the atmosphere. "I'm always here for you, yeah? Always."

[ present - Dec 2019 ]

If Cassidy thought that her "crepe Saturday" was nerve-wracking, she clearly underestimated how anxious she can get.

It is probably due to the fact that Harry asked to do the interview sooner rather than later, which in this case means the next day. Thankfully, she was able to call upon Roxie to take Cecelia and entertain her for a few hours.

However, that means she and Harry will be together alone. Not that any kind of conclusion can be made from it, he's simply coming over for an interview, but it doesn't keep her from feeling frazzled.

Her pair of comfortable, flared jeans and a big knit sweater still seem to be the best option for the day's outfit, even though she's checked it over and considered a change roughly fifty times already.

The doorbell prevents her from reconsidering her clothing choices yet again, and she shakes the anxiety out of her hands before opening the front door.

"Good morning!" Harry exclaims with a wide grin and more coffees in hand. "Brought these.'

"You don't have to bring me coffee every time you come over." She chuckles, realizing this is the third time he's been at her house, and only the second time he's actually been invited over.

"I didn't. These are both for me." He smirks, causing a blush to her cheeks, but out of embarrassment for her assumption.

"I'm joking." He adds, handing her one of the cups, with a deep dimple caving into his left cheek. "F'course this is for you!"

She gives him a sarcastic glare, knowing she should have expected that kind of mischief from him. It won't ever go away. However, his comment is not bothersome this time.

"Thank you." She replies, grabbing the cup and further opening the door to allow him to walk through.

She finds a seat at the table, and notices him still standing at the end.

"Where should I sit?"

"Oh." She chuckles. "Across from me. Makes it better when I can see your face."

"Hmm, does it now?"

She rolls her eyes, but can't hide the small smile trying to push its way across her face. She clears her throat as she realizes that his cheeky charm is flustering more than it's frustrating her, and she hasn't tried to correct it.

"Don't flatter yourself, I do it like that with everyone." She chuckles, shaking her head at how his narcissism always manages to peek through, even slightly. But somehow this time it is entertaining.

"I'm only teasing."

"Nothing new."

"So, let's get to it. What questions do you have for me?"

She flips her notebook open, and reads over what she has written down. She pulls out a recorder from her pocket and places it on the table.

"Is it okay if I record this?" She asks shyly. She quickly has the epiphany that she is now interacting with and seeing him as Harry Styles, the famous singer. That will be useful to keep her thoughts professional and maintain the boundaries she convinced herself she would keep. Though, she isn't sure why she feels the need to have them in the first place. Nothing really happened between them. Just two nights of sex. Really good sex. The best sex she's had. He is really, really good at it.

"Sure. Makes it easier for you to refer back to, right?" He responds, and she lets out a breath she didn't realize she was holding in. Her eyes flicker up to him quickly before looking back down at her notes. "And it's old school. I like it."

She nods, presses the record button, and picks up her pen.

"Alright. So, Harry, you just had a secret show at the Electric Ballroom, showcasing the songs from your new album, 'Fine Line'. You also had one recently in Los Angeles. What made you decide to release your album and have those two performances at the end of this year rather than the beginning of the next?"

His eyes went wide and a huge grin displayed instantly. It looked as if he was surprised by her inquiry.

"That's a good question. Umm, I think for me personally, I was excited to share the songs with everyone and wanted to give my wonderful, wonderful fans something before the holidays and before tour next year." He replies, never taking his eyes off of her. She can feel them even as she looks down to the paper in front of her.

She looks back up to him, catching a bit of something in his gaze that she can't distinguish at the moment.

"Clearly you love the music that you make, and wouldn't put a song on the album that you didn't like. But is there one in particular that you are surprised the fans love as much as they do?"

"Umm, I don't think so. Obviously I hoped the album would be well received. I know not everyone is going to be a fan of every song. But what I didn't necessarily expect, and is a bit of a shame, is during the line in 'To Be So Lonely', when it says that 'I'm just an arrogant son of a bitch'... I didn't expect them to shout it so loudly back at me!"

They both laugh, and Harry begins to fidget slightly with the H and S initial rings on his hand.

"Did you?"

"Did I what?" She asks, looking up from the notes she just scribbled down.

"Yell it back at me?"

"I… umm…"

"You did!" He exclaims, throwing his hand dramatically against his chest in fake offense.

"I really didn't! I promise!"

He looks at her with a curious raised eyebrow, but flicks his hands at her to wave it off and continue the interview.

"So, talking about loving the music you make, is there a song from the album that you'd consider your favourite?"

As she waits for his answer, her own hand ready to write his response, she notices the silence. She looks back up and sees him staring down at his own hands, still fidgeting. His brow is slightly furrowed and his lips pulled inward.

"I'm sure most of your fans would have trouble choosing just one, so I can only imagine how hard it would be for you." She chuckles, hoping to ease whatever strain he seems to be feeling. Though, she is unsure why the question has caused him to stay quiet.

He clears his throat and runs one hand through his hair.

"No, no. I do." He brings his eyes up to meet hers, and there is now a discernible intensity to them, and it's an expression she can determine is one of vulnerability. For some reason, it makes her chest tighten. "Umm, I'd say one of my favourite songs from this album is 'Fine Line'. I'm really happy with it. Really proud of it."

Cassidy holds herself back from looking up to him and focuses on writing down his answer, but can feel his gaze burning into her.

"When we first made it, I instantly loved the melody, and the lyrics. I listened to it all the time during my last tour, like, I'd just listen to it in bed or during down time. I knew it would be the last song on the album, so we made it big. I wanted it to be big. It… it means a lot to me, that one."

"I think it's one of my favourites too."

"It is?" He replies with surprise. He sits up straighter and picks at his nails this time, her noticing a smile he's attempting to cover up. He never accomplishes that. She sees through the expression every time, but his question seems sincere. "What… what do you like about it?"

"It's… I mean… it's beautiful. And it just feels like a song, like, a relationship, that loads of people can relate to."

"Can you?" He asks quickly, and softly.

"Can I what?"

"Can you relate to it?"

She takes in a deep breath as she finishes writing down his last quotable words, staring at them for a moment, and doing everything she can not to entertain the thought of the song possibly being inspired by her. Specifically that last interaction, last fight, that they had over two years ago.

"Yeah, I can." She pauses, turning her gaze to the side and feeling emotions swirl through her stomach. Yes, she definitely can.

"Is it… is it because of… Cece's father?" He asks quietly. Shyly. He seems nervous to have asked the question, but she's even more nervous to answer.

No, she never told Harry that she was pregnant. She wasn't sure if he was even told by his family. The shock on his face, those few days ago, gave her the answer to that. He hadn't known. Not that there was a reason for him to know. It didn't involve him and frankly it was none of his business, especially considering how they left things. Especially considering how it happened, when it happened, and who she got pregnant by.

Yet, a small part of her feels as if that person, the father of her child, is not the one she might consider the song to be about for her. Because that relationship, for lack of a better term, was not something like Harry's lyrics describe.

She unintentionally reaches for the recorder and presses to stop it. "Sorry. I need… some water."

She stands from her seat, not able to come up with a better excuse to use, but hoping it'll suffice.

"I'm sorry, Cass. I'm not trying to pry."

"Yes you are." She gives him a small smile, which causes him to let out a quick, breathy chuckle.

"Can I ask a different question then?"

"Oh. Umm…" Her nerves peak.

"It's light-hearted. Promise. Casual conversation."

She nods. "Sure."

"Who are some of your favorite artists?"

She brings her glass to the table and sits back down. She looks up to him, watching as his smile turns into a full on grin and leaning back in his chair. He's waiting for her to say his name.

"Niall." She answers immediately, copying his posture by leaning back in her own chair, and hoping the wait for more is irritating him. "Cece absolutely loves him. Dances around to all of his songs. She likes Taylor Swi-"

"I asked who your favorite artists are, not hers." He chuckles with a faux frown, which only makes Cassidy giggle in response.

"I like them, too!" She jokingly scowls back. "I really like Ed Sheeran's stuff, and have been listening to Kacey Musgraves lately."

He sits there, one arm across his body and the other tugging on his bottom lip, a gesture she has seen many times before. A small smile appears on his lips and he leans forward, his forearms resting on the table with his hands clasped together.

"Does that mean I round out your top five?" He asks, his eyebrows raised in the most smug demeanor. It's one that Cassidy wants to squash, just a little.

"Not even close, Styles. I can't listen to you. I know you." She answers. She knows that in the context of their current conversation, her reply might not make sense. But in general, she has avoided listening to his songs, with the exception of a few, for the very reason she just mentioned. She knows him. And while she knows he hasn't written about her, besides potentially the one song she just proclaimed was her favourite, she hasn't been able to get herself to hear his heart in his songs. The reason is unknown to her. It feels silly. But she chocks it up to the fact that she has already dealt with enough from him, some good but mostly bad, and she would prefer not to awaken any of those frustrated emotions again if she can avoid doing so.

"Ouch." He dramatically hits his palm against his chest. "Usually your biggest supporters are the people who know you. You know, like your friends…"

He smiles but pulls his lips inward and drops his gaze, almost looking hurt by what he just said. Friends. He's the only person that word feels weird with. Complicated with. And they're not. They're not actually friends. Or, at least, they never have been before.

"I have one more question." He states, snapping her back to her task at hand. Well, not her task at the moment. But at least back to the present.

"Oh goodness."

"Hey." He quips, sticking his tongue out at her words. This is a side she's seen before, but always in a different capacity. It's playful. She has only ever seen it when he was pulling pranks. It makes her, as she always does with him, feel flustered. No, she feels frustrated. Usually. "Just wanted to know what you're doing for Christmas."

"Oh." She replies. "Just spending time here. Nothing major. Just me and Cece."

"Oh!" He clears his throat, a somewhat surprised look on his face. "Sounds lovely."

Her body tenses, wondering how much he might try to dig into that response, and truly hoping nothing more will be asked of her regarding the subject.

"Do you, umm, have any more questions for me?" He quickly changes the subject as he points to the recorder. She nods and reaches over to turn it back on, sitting in silence for a moment as she goes over her notes, also sneaking glimpses of Harry as he rubs his palms anxiously over his thighs.

She clears her throat and looks directly back up at him, smiling to regain the positive and professional atmosphere that was there at the beginning of the interview. He returns it with his own smile.

"Right, yeah." She begins. "Let's talk about the choice to cover Lizzo's song 'Juice' for the show. I was gutted that I had to miss it, so I need all the details."

•••

The holidays can be so bittersweet. Cassidy absolutely loves seeing the wonderment in Cecelia's eyes around this time of year, and each Christmas, though they've only had a few so far, has only gotten better and better. She's so excited to have her daughter at an age now where they can start sharing more experiences together, and maybe start some family traditions.

However, the bitter part comes about as Cassidy is reminded that it's just the two of them. Cecelia will never know what it's like to go over to her grandparents house, getting overly spoiled with presents and sugary treats. She doesn't get to experience her dad lifting her onto his shoulders so she can place the star on top of their tree. She doesn't get to have big family gatherings or holiday cards with both parents.

But then again, neither did Cassidy.

That's one of the reasons she would visit the Styles house every Christmas afternoon. She at least got a little taste of what that life was like, for them. With them. It was warm, and loving, and everything she wanted it to be. She has tried to recreate that for Cecelia, but she knows she can only do so much.

It makes her miss visiting with Anne and Gemma. They never missed an opportunity to include her in something. Usually it was some shenanigans to prank the boys. She sighs as she acknowledges how much she misses Robin, too. They always teamed up for one of their family games, and he would rave about how Anne gave him the most thoughtful gift. Every year.

But getting pregnant changed all of it. Cassidy doesn't regret having Cecelia, not even in the slightest, she just wishes she could give her more. More than her own parents ever did.

[ flashback - April 2016 ]

Cassidy feels as if she has just barely made it through her first trimester. Spending time at the Styles house seems to have helped keep her pregnancy hidden from her parents, but she isn't sure how much longer she can keep it secret.

"Darling, are you alright? You've barely eaten anything lately." Her mum states with concern, using the back of her hand against Cassidy's forehead to check her temperature.

She plays around with the food on her plate, resisting the urge to vomit at simply the sight of the cooked chicken. She looks over to her dad, who is passed out drunk on the sofa, and looks back to find her mum's concerned expression.

"I'm okay, Mum." She lies.

Her mum wraps her arms around Cassidy's shoulders, kneeling down next to her chair, and quickly glancing over to her husband before turning back to Cassidy.

"If something is wrong, you can tell me CJ. I'm your mum. I'm always here for you."

Cassidy glances over to her again, now seeing the concern has turned into compassion, and a mixture of emotions arise, not being helped by her heightened hormones. Tears start to form in her eyes and she leans into her mum's hold.

"You're pregnant, aren't you?"

Cassidy would have responded with shock, or attempted to continue to cover up her secret, but all she can manage to do is grasp onto her mum and let some tears fall, making sure to stay quiet and not wake up her dad.

She finally nods and her mum pulls back to look her in the eyes.

"It's okay, darling, it's going to be okay."

They both look over to the sofa as they hear stirring.

"We'll talk later, alright? We'll figure this out."

•••

It's the first time, in a long time, that Cassidy has felt good being at home. Somewhat good. Her mum has truly been taking care of her over the past week, and she's so grateful for the help. She's grateful to not feel alone there anymore.

They both walk through the front door, smiling and chatting, after being at the store.

"S'bout damn time!" Her dad exclaims as they place the bags on the kitchen counter, the stench of whiskey looming off of him. "What took so fuck'n long?"

"We had to get a few extra things this time." Cassidy answers, saving her mum from having to do it.

"But we got your favourite beer!" Her mum adds, a way to get him in a better mood and minimize the chance of a drunken outburst. It doesn't always work, but it is always worth a try.

He grunts and rummages through one of the bags as Cassidy and her mum begin to unpack the others.

"What the hell is this?" He suddenly asks, and both women swivel around to see him holding up the bottle of prenatal vitamins they had purchased. They had forgotten that they were there. They forgot to hide them.

"Ya better not be fuck'n pregnant!" He shouts at her mum, his intense glare causing Cassidy's stomach to drop.

Her mum opens her mouth to reply, but her dad immediately moves closer and grabs her neck, pushing her against the wall.

"I'm…" her mum breathes out in a whisper. "I'm…"

"How's it possible? You're too old! And I got that… thing… are ya fuck'n someone else?"

"Dad, stop!" Cassidy yells, rushing over to grab the arm that had her mum pinned. "Stop!"

"Shut up!" He scolds, pushing Cassidy and causing her to stumble backwards into the refrigerator.

"Please…" Her mum pleads, grasping onto her husband's hands to release her.

"It's not her!" Cassidy shouts, grabbing his arm again to gain his full attention. "She's not the one who's pregnant! I am! I'm pregnant!"

His head shoots over to Cassidy, and somehow a small amount of relief arrives. At least his anger isn't fully focused on her mum. At least she can spare her from what he could've done.

"Ya little slut!" He yells, removing his arm from his wife's neck, but holding it on her chest to keep her pushed against the wall. "Can't even b'lieve someone would wanna fuck ya! But ya would be dumb enough to get knocked up!"

"Let Mum go! She was only trying to help me!"

"She what?" He looks back to the woman he has under his hold. He brings both hands up to her shoulders and firmly presses her further against the wall. "Ya fuck'n knew? Ya fuck'n knew and didn't tell me?"

Her mum's breath becomes shallow, still catching up from the hold he had on her neck. She flickers her eyes over to her daughter, and Cassidy's eyes widen in fear. She didn't even realize what she had said, and didn't mean to throw her mum under the bus.

"No, she didn't! She didn't know!" Cassidy attempts to catch the gaze of her dad once again. "I meant… I asked her to stay longer at the store. But I bought them. I bought the vitamins and snuck them in there!"

Thankfully, he turns his head back to Cassidy and stands up a little straighter, still keeping his hold on his wife. And thankfully, he seems drunk enough to believe her half-assed, stressed out explanation. The only upside to his constant drunken state is that he is fairly gullible most of the time. But it's not much of an upside.

"Get the fuck out." He growls, piercing his gaze into her.

"What?" She quietly replies, stunned.

"Get the fuck out!" He yells this time. "Didn't even want ya 'round when ya was born. Not fuck'n dealing with another little brat in my house!"

"But, dear-" Her mum tries to answer.

"Shut the fuck up." He snaps back, finally releasing her and pointing towards their daughter. "Tell 'er she needs to leave! And tell 'er she can't come back!"

Her mum looks over with the most terrified look. Cassidy knows it's not completely due to her husband's actions. She knows it's in fear of what could also happen to Cassidy and her future child. She also knows that it's one of apology for what will happen next.

"CJ…" She states with shaky breath. "I think… I think it's better if-"

"Dad, come on…" Cassidy pleads. Even knowing the environment she lives in, it's her home, and she can't currently think of where else to go, where else she can stay.

"Leave!" He shouts once more, finally pulling himself away from his wife and turning towards Cassidy. She takes a few steps back and he stops in place, now pointing towards the front door. "Get ya stuff and get out!"

Cassidy's mouth drops open in disbelief and looks over to her mum, only to see her head drop as low as it can go.

She moves slowly past her dad, holding her breath in worry that he could hurt her too. She rushes to her room and slams the door shut. Her knees hit the floor and her face falls into her hands, tears already pooling in her palms.

What the hell is she supposed to do now?

She lifts her head and scrambles to grab a bag, shoving in anything she can find to at least last her a few days away.

Maybe her dad will come to his senses and change his mind. Although, the thought crosses her mind of whether she would actually want to come back. She needs to be somewhere where she feels safe.

She takes her phone out of her pocket and opens her messages.

🗨️ Cassidy: can i stay the night? dad found out

🗨️ Cassidy: i'm getting kicked out

She places the phone on the bed, next to her bag, and grabs a few more items before zipping it up. Even without a response, she knows she has to leave the house, and soon.

As she throws the bag over her shoulder, her phone vibrates, and she unlocks the screen.

🗨️ Gemma: come over right now

She opens her bedroom door and walks through the house, finding her mum leaning against the kitchen counter, her face in her hands.

"Mum?" Cassidy whispers, and her mum raises her head. Cassidy's eyes widen as she sees the red handprint across her mother's cheek, and a bruise already forming around her neck. "I… I don't wanna leave you here."

"You need to go, CJ." Her mum responds, a blank expression on her face. Cassidy can't tell if her mum is trying to save her, or save herself. It could be both. It probably is both. She knows there isn't much that the woman can do, but the fact that she didn't fight for her to stay does sting. The fact that she is staying there, with that man, stings even more.

They embrace in a hug, whispering 'I love you' to each other before they hear footsteps getting closer, causing Cassidy to look one last time at her mum before rushing out the door.

As she walks down the footpath, making her way to her best friend's house as quickly as she can, all the tears she has inside come barreling out.

As she shuffles her way up the path to the Styles house, the door swings open and Cassidy finds Anne with her arms wide open.

"Oh, sweetheart!" She exclaims, pulling Cassidy in as soon as she reaches her. "Come on, we'll get you settled in."

"I'm… I'm so sorry to put you out…" Cassidy replies through her sniffles and labored breaths.

"CJ, you know you're welcome here anytime." Anne replies, taking the bag and setting it down by the door. "And you can stay as long as you need. This is your house now too."

[ present day - Christmas Day ]

As always, Christmas morning is quiet. As quiet as it can be with a child this age. But it is just the two of them. It has been that way since Cecilia was born. Cassidy doesn't miss her mornings with her parents, but she does miss the afternoons at the Styles home.

Especially now, with her daughter being three.

"Fank you Mummy!" Cecelia exclaims, running up to her mum, who sits on the living room floor, and tackles her with a hug. It never ceases to amaze Cassidy how grateful her daughter is. No matter what she receives, she treats it like the best gift in the world. She wishes she could give Cecelia more, but it melts her heart to see her daughter so happy either way.

Cassidy's phone begins to ring, so she grabs it from the floor beside her and answers it, putting it on speaker when she sees the name of the caller.

"Happy Christmas Gem!"

"Happy Chri'mas Gem!" Cecelia shouts.

"Happy Christmas ladies!" Gemma replies with a chuckle. "Cece, did Santa visit you?"

Cecelia rushes over to her small pile of toys, grabs one of her new favourites, and brings it to the phone.

"He got me dis!" She holds it up.

"Oh, lovie, I can't see it right now. I should've video called." She states, thankfully unable to see the pout on the little girl's face. "But… if your mummy wants… maybe you can show me later today?"

"Gemma!" Cassidy exclaims, immediately taking the phone off speaker, and getting up from the floor, in an attempt to make the call a little more private. "Don't do that. She'll think you're coming over."

"Actually…" She clears her throat. "We were hoping you'd come over here. Today."

Cassidy stands in place, not certain as to why that suggestion throws her off so much. It's not as if she hasn't been to the house lately. She still goes over often to visit, especially with Cecelia, but it hasn't been for a holiday, for Christmas specifically, since the one four years ago. The one after she and Harry had sex. The one right before he left on that yacht with Kendall Jenner. The one before Cassidy found out she was pregnant.

"Umm… well, it's-"

"We miss you on Christmas, CJ!" Her friend replies with a pleading tone. "We want you here. You know you're always welcome here. We've got presents. And Mum would love to see you two."

This isn't the first time her best friend has made the request for their presence on the holiday. The first year was just too difficult with a newborn baby. Cassidy spent the day nursing, napping whenever possible, and ordering pizza when she had a free moment to eat.

The next Christmas was just after Cecelia turned one, and the first without Robin. She knew deep down that she should be there, for everyone, but the emotions were so high that they kept her away.

It began to feel easier to stay home, just the two of them. It would be quiet, and simple, and not intruding on anyone else's holiday.

"I don't know."

"I hate to beg, but I will…" Gemma states.

Cassidy sighs and looks over to Cecelia, who has gone back to playing with her new toys. Maybe this is the opportunity to give her daughter the fun Christmas experience she hasn't been able to have yet. A fun Christmas with the Styles family, just like she used to have. Her one worry though is that Cecelia will expect it every year. That's not something that can be promised to continue. And she doesn't want her daughter to be disappointed if it doesn't.

Cecelia runs back up to her mum, tugging on her pyjama pants and forcing Cassidy to kneel.

"Mummy, can I show Gem dis today?" She asks with the most persuasive, wide eyes, holding up a set of new sparkly bangles. "I wan' give her one."

As a mum, in general she doesn't want to just give into every request, but the bright, hopeful expression of her daughter just can't seem to be ignored this time. Plus, she's not fully opposed to spending more time with Anne and Gemma.

"Please?" Gemma reiterates through the phone.

Cassidy now also wishes that Gemma had done a video call, because she would love to shoot her a scolding glare, and maybe a few specific hand gestures, at this moment.

"Alright you two. We can go over there." She concedes, causing a laugh from her friend and a squeal from her daughter.

"Come over whenever you want." Gemma states, smug joy clear in her voice.

"We'll see you soon…" Cassidy replies, quickly hanging up and watching as her daughter gathers up an armful of her new presents.

"I'm so e'cited! I ge' see Ms. Anne, Gem, Harry…"

There's a lump in her throat forming instantly at the mention of his name. The last Christmas spent at that house included him, and she has to admit that not being in his presence anymore, especially on the holiday, and especially with a child, could be a minor addition to the reason she stopped going.

But, nonetheless, she has been overruled. And with the sudden, random, and unexpected pleasantness between the two of them now, it could actually be a good time. She really hopes it'll be a good time.

•••

"My girls are here! Happy Christmas!" Anne exclaims as Cecelia runs right into her arms, lifting her up in her embrace.

"I got bangles!"

"Yes, you did! They are beautiful!"

Anne places Cecelia back on the ground, giving her the freedom to run over to Gemma and share one with her. It also gives Anne the ability to wrap Cassidy in a big hug, possibly squeezing every ounce of love she has into her.

"We've missed you, sweetheart." She whispers.

"Anne, we visit loads…" Cassidy replies with a chuckle.

"I know. But the holidays are different. It's not the same without you." She gives a small, sweet smile, quickly rubbing her hands up and down Cassidy's arms. She looks to her side and the small smile turns into a wide grin. "But, maybe I shouldn't complain. Harry hasn't won a family game in a few years!"

"Hey…" He whines as he walks up to both of them.

"Harry!" Cecelia suddenly yells, rushing over to him and hugging his legs. Cassidy would find it hard to believe how quickly she's taken to him, but her daughter is outgoing, and Harry can charm even the youngest of people. That doesn't stop it from being a bit weird for her to see.

"Cece! Happy Christmas!" He kneels down to give her a proper hug, which she curls herself into.

She pulls back and holds out her arm.

"I got bangles!" She exclaims again, most likely not for the last time either.

"Yes you did!" He replies, with as much enthusiasm as she gave. "And you know… I think there's one or two presents for you under our tree, too…"

"Come on, moonbeam. Let's take a look." Anne states, grabbing Cecelia's little hand.

"Moonbeam?" Harry inquires, looking as his mum turns back around to him.

"Yeah. She was born at night, like, right when the moon came out. It was really cool, honestly. So, the nickname just seemed to fit." Anne shrugs.

"How… how do you know when-"

"So, my boss really liked the article. Published it online almost right away actually. So, thank you for doing that." Cassidy interjects, gaining Harry's focus as the curious expression begins to fade from his face.

"Happy to help." He replies.

"Are you…" She clears her throat, looking down at the fingernails she suddenly finds herself picking at. "Are you happy to be home?"

"It's always good to come back when I can be." He softly admits. "I miss everyone, so it feels better when I am home."

"That makes sense." She replies, not that she can really understand that feeling. She never wanted to be home. "It's a good place to come back to."

Her gaze flickers up to find Harry's, once again seeing him try to disguise a smirk, along with a shy smile.

"Do you get to see your folks much? I know they moved away, and you said you just spend Christmas with Cece…" He asks with sincere curiosity, but it causes Cassidy's heart to drop.

He was never at her house when they were younger, and wasn't there when she needed to move into his childhood home, so he was never aware of what had gone on in that household she once had to call hers.

"Oh…" She begins, her mind racing and her heart following the frantic rhythm. "No, we don't."

"That's a shame."

"Mummy!" Cecelia exclaims, grabbing the attention of both her mum and the man she already seems so fond of. "Can we open?"

Cassidy sighs in relief, grateful for the perfect timing of the interruption, and nods as she looks back at Harry. He nods as well, motioning for her to lead the way to the sofa by the Christmas tree.

Cecelia sits down next to the tree, kicking her feet in giddiness, as Gemma hands her the first gift.

"This is from me and Michal." Gemma states, as the little girl vigorously tears the wrapping paper off. She holds up a box containing a little tea time playset.

"Fank you! Fank you!" She exclaims, putting it down next to her and looking at the tree again.

"Alright, little moonbeam. This one is from me." Anne stands as she hands over a pink gift bag.

Cecelia pulls out the tissue paper to find a crayon colouring kit, a great gift since she loves to draw.

"I can colour! Can I open it?" She asks, looking over to her mum with those persuasive, hopeful eyes.

"Umm, one moment Cece." Harry suddenly states, getting up from his position on the sofa and walking over to the tree. He reaches behind it, pulling out two wrapped boxes, and handing the larger one to Cecelia.

"Here you go."

She looks up at him, wide eyed, and begins to open it up. Her expression grows even more when she pulls out the stuffed animal she was gifted.

"It's a… it's a…"

"Brown bunny." Cassidy whispers, seemingly only loud enough for Harry to hear, as she sees his face turn towards hers with a small smile.

"It's just like my ol' one! Mummy look!" She exclaims, jumping up from the floor and rushing over to her mum. "I love 'im! I love 'im!"

As soon as she reaches the sofa, she jumps up in between the two adults, holding the bunny in one arm and grabbing Harry with the other.

"Fank you Harry!" She hugs him tighter and he shoots a glance over to Cassidy, wrapping his arms around the little girl who has unintentionally become so enamored with him. And who he seems to have unintentionally become so enamored by, too.

She giggles as she hops back off of the couch and shows off her new stuffed animal to the others.

Cassidy turns her attention away from her daughter as she hears Harry clear his throat, finding him holding the smaller box out towards her.

"This, umm, this is for you." He states softly, and maybe even nervously, as his gaze flickers between hers and the gift in his hands. "From me… and Gemma."

Her mouth drops open as she looks down at the box, raising her hand, what feels like slow motion. She places it in her lap and begins to delicately remove the wrapping.

She opens the box and gasps as it reveals a necklace. Dainty gold chain, adorned with an oval locket, a small 'C' engraved in the center . She quickly looks over to Harry.

"Open it." He whispers, shifting in his spot with anticipation.

She looks back down and gently pries it open, a few tears forming instantly as she sees two photos of her precious little girl. The one on the left is from the day Cecelia was born, a photo that Cassidy knows was taken by Anne. The one on the right is a more recent one, taken by Gemma on her third birthday.

"Gemma told me you've been wanting one, and she had the photos, so I guess it's not really from me at-"

"I love it, Harry. Thank you." She utters, running her thumb over both photos, as if to draw out positive emotions and the memories of both days. "Thank you so much."

She looks to see his gorgeously dimpled smirk, but doesn't detect any arrogance from it this time around. Yes, it looks like he is pleased with himself, but not for his own ego, and she suddenly feels heat rush over her entire body.

"You didn't have to do this." She states. "I didn't… I didn't get you anything."

His Adam's apple bobs as he swallows hard, his brow furrowing slightly with his eyes still on hers.

"I wasn't expecting anything from you. I just… wanted to." He shrugs and runs his fingers through his hair. "Especially for Cece, she shouldn't go through life without another brown bunny!"

Cassidy laughs, quickly covering her mouth as she realizes the volume she used. No one seems to mind. Which she realizes is because everyone is comfortable as they are. Here. Together. Maybe this is how it should be from now on.

•••

With Cecelia down for her afternoon nap, sleeping in the guest bedroom, and Anne in the other room on the phone with some family members, the younger adults are all huddled in the living room with wine glasses in hand.

"It's a good thing you weren't here last night, CJ."

"Oh, cheers Gem, thanks." She replies, sticking her tongue out at her friend.

"No, no." Gemma chuckles. "Just 'cause you and Harry always win when you're on the same team! We've been winning since you stopped… coming…"

Her voice fades out and she gives an apologetic smile, to which Cassidy just shakes off. It wasn't their choice to not include her in their festivities anymore.

"I was just doing you a favor."

"Excuse me?" Harry chuckles, turning around to her on the sofa. "This was not discussed with your teammate. Just left me in the dust."

Cassidy gives a polite smile, subtly shooting Gemma an embarassed look, before turning her gaze back to Harry.

"So what you're saying is that I'm better than you?"

"What? No! What?"

The group laughs at his exaggerated defensiveness, clearly a small hit to his big ego, even in a comical manner.

"If you can't win without me, it means I'm the superior player." She smirks, seeing that she is instantly met with his scrunched face and tightly pursed lips.

He crosses his arms over his chest and sits back against the couch.

"I don't like this."

"That's because you're a sore loser." Gemma states, causing Harry to toss a pillow in her direction, hitting the wine glass in her hand and spilling a decent amount onto her.

"Oh shit!" He exclaims, covering his mouth with his fist. "I'm sorry."

She growls as she reaches for a few napkins on the coffee table, and begins to pat herself dry.

"See? A sore loser." She growls again, standing and maneuvering herself around the chairs. "You're just lucky this is white wine, and a black jumper."

"Gemma!" Cassidy suddenly states. "Is that jumper mine?"

Gemma looks down at her outfit, then back up to her friend with her lips pulled inward. Cassidy's mouth drops open slightly, hiding the smile that attempts to make an appearance.

"It is, isn't it?"

"I… well…" Her friend begins to fumble over her words with her own smile coming through.

"You thief! I've been looking for that for ages!"

"Not hard enough!" Gemma chuckles. "I found it right after you moved out of here!"

"Moved out?" Harry utters.

"Alright, since I love you, I'll let this slide." Cassidy laughs, shaking her head at her best friend and taking another sip from her own wine glass. "But I think you owe me a new one."

"What does she mean you moved out of here?" Harry asks, catching the attention of the two friends, whose eyes both go wide at each other before looking over to him. "When… when did you move in here?"

"It… it was, umm… when I got pregnant with Cece." Cassidy replies.

"What?!" He questions, running one hand through his hair, and then the other. "And I just… didn't know…?"

He looks up at her with something she could potentially mistake for sadness. He looks sad.

Why does he look so sad?

"It was just complicated." She responds, swallowing the lump that has suddenly appeared in her throat.

"You weren't here, Harry. Why does it matter?" Gemma adds, forgetting about the spilled wine and sitting back down in her seat across from them.

"It doesn't." He mumbles, looking over to Cassidy through the corners of his gaze. "It's just weird I didn't know."

"To be fair though, I'm pretty sure we mentioned it to you…" Gemma replies, crossing her arms against her chest and giving him one raised eyebrow, as if to strengthen her statement.

"What? When?" His eyes widen.

"When you were on set for 'Dunkirk'." She responds.

"Why don't I remember that?" His brow turns to a frown and he rubs the back of his neck.

"You were busy." Cassidy mumbles, causing Harry to shoot his gaze over to her, firmly keeping it on her face with an unreadable expression.

Anne comes walking back in and everyone straightens up, as if they were teenagers about to be caught making a sneaky plan. Thankfully, she doesn't seem to notice.

"Robin's niece, Amanda, just had her baby. Tonight!" She exclaims. She turns her gaze to Cassidy and smiles. "I could hear him screaming in the background. Not nearly as calm as Cece was that first day in hospital."

"You were there when Cece was born?" Harry asks Anne, subtly flickering his gaze between Cassidy and his mum.

"Of course." She simply states, making her way back to the chair she had previously occupied.

"For fucks sake." He mumbles, moving to rest his forearms on his knees and clasping his hands.

Anne turns to Gemma and begins a conversation about the new member in their extended family. Cassidy can see Harry picking at his fingernails and looks up to see his jaw clenching tight.

He lets out a strong exhale, pressing his palms against his knees and pushing himself up off the sofa.

"Excuse me." He states, brushing against Cassidy's legs as he makes his way out of the living and down the hallway.

Cassidy sits on the sofa, stunned, as she attempts to listen to the chatter between the others.

But the questions she suddenly has swirling around in her head seem to be louder than anything actually being spoken in that room.

Why does he care so much that he didn't know?

She decides to take a moment to herself and check in on Cecelia, so she gets up and walks towards the guest bedroom her daughter is sleeping in.

She cracks open the door, seeing her little girl still sound asleep, and quietly pulls it closed again. As she walks away, a figure in the other guest bedroom catches her eye, and she turns to see Harry sitting on the edge of the bed, his elbows digging into his thighs, his hands clasped together, and his gaze fixated on the floor.

He looks sad. Again. Still.

Without her knowing, her body seems pulled into the room and over to him, watching as he sits up straighter and hearing him clear his throat.

"Hey." She utters, moving a few steps closer to him.

"Hi." He replies.

"What are you doing in here?"

He shrugs, and his posture returns to the one he was displaying before she entered the bedroom.

"I just, umm, needed a minute to myself."

She nods and turns around to head back out the door.

"Cass?" Harry's words halt her to a stop, and she swivels on her feet to face him again. He exhales and shakes his head, focusing his eyes back down to the floor. "Why… like…"

He exhales strongly again, and shoots her a quick glance.

"Why didn't you tell me?"

Cassidy's body tenses and she sees his body do the same. He's really bothered by it?

She never told him because he didn't need to know. She never told him because, at first, she was embarrassed and ashamed, and wanted as little people to know as possible. Because she was terrified. Because he was busy living his megastar life and she didn't think he would even care to know. Because he had no reason to. Because they weren't even close, at all.

"Harry… I… it's just that…"

"I know you never saw us as friends, but… we, like, grew up together. I figured… I suppose I figured I'd at least know…"

"Well, Gemma said she did try to tell-"

"But you didn't." He interrupts. "You didn't tell me. Fuck… not even at the funeral."

A silence falls on them and both refuse to look at the other. Harry remains sitting, almost hunched over himself on the bed, as Cassidy stands there between him and the doorway, debating whether or not to just leave. However, his sad eyes encourage her to at least offer some sort of explanation. Especially with how kind he has been to her lately. And especially with how amazing he has been to Cecelia.

She saunters over and sits down next to him, her eyes focused on her fidgety fingers.

"Harry, you were starting your solo career, making a movie, then off writing and recording in Jamaica. Plus we…" She swallows the lump in her throat, her thoughts suddenly switching back to the argument they had before she found out she was pregnant. Before she even got pregnant. "We weren't really on speaking terms..."

"Oh. Right." He gives her a small smile as he stands. "You don't need to explain. I guess I just felt a little stupid for not knowing."

He looks right into her eyes, and she feels as if he is trying to read her mind, or have her read his. He gives her another quick smile and turns to walk out.

Cassidy's chest tightens and her hand suddenly reaches out to grab his wrist, causing Harry to stop and immediately twirl back around.

"They kicked me out." She mumbles, wondering if it was even loud enough for him to hear.

"What?"

She sighs, dropping her hand and feeling her heart race. This conversation was not expected. She didn't realize she was saying those words until they came out of her mouth. And she never thought they'd be spoken for him to hear.

"My parents." She clears her throat, trying to take the shakiness away. "They kicked me out when they found out I was pregnant."

He walks back to the bed and takes his seat on the edge again, flickering a few glances her way, but staying quiet.

"That's why I moved in here for a few months. Your mum and Robin helped me so much." She sighs. "They basically saved me."

"Why'd they kick you out?" He asks, a sincere compassion in his eyes as they gaze upon hers. "Sorry, you don't have to tell me."

She clears her throat, not entirely sure what to say, or how much to tell him. They aren't kids anymore, and although her parents are not exactly a subject that she purposefully brings up in conversation, it's also not something she should be so desperate to hide anymore.

"It's alright. My… umm… my dad didn't want another baby in the house. Like, he didn't want to deal with it. With me. With her." She sighs, giving a small shrug as she pulls her lips inward. "He was drunk and-... and kicked me out. I know you don't know this but he was, or is… I'm not sure anymore… but, he was an alcoholic."

She turns her head towards him, expecting a stunned expression splashed over his face, but is met with the sight of him nervously chewing on his lips.

"I, umm, actually did know that..."

"What? How?" Her eyes grow wide and her chest tightens more, not knowing if she should feel angry or embarrassed or relieved.

"Umm… well, I overheard Robin and my mum one night, when we were younger and you were sleeping over." He admits shyly, avoiding eye contact. "I heard them mention it."

"Shit." She mumbles, definitely feeling embarrassment as the leading emotion now.

"Wasn't gossip or anything. They were just worried about you."

Cassidy throws her face into her palms, her mind reeling from Harry's confession of knowing about her dad. And for a long time. Since they were kids.

And she hadn't known that he knew. She didn't even have the slightest clue. She would've expected some teasing, small remarks, or maybe even a cruel joke.

But he never said or did anything.

[ flashback - Sept 2012 ]

Just another day, just another argument, just another reason for Cassidy to run out of her house, grab her bike, and ride as far away as she can from the screaming match occuring inside.

Sure, she can drive away, and sometimes she does, but there's something about pushing the pedals around that makes her feel a little more in control, and a little more free. If she could fly away, she would, but this was the next best option.

She ends up where she usually does, at the Styles home, and she pumps the brakes of her bike on the footpath outside.

However, the comfort she usually feels there quickly dissipates as she sees the one other person who she usually wants to escape from. Harry. Of course.

He is sitting on the front steps, on the phone, and she rolls her eyes when he smirks as he sees her.

He says goodbye to whomever is on the end of the call and stands up, placing his phone in his pocket. Cassidy throws her leg over, off of her bike, and leans it on the kickstand.

"Gemma's not here." He states, as he makes his way closer.

"And why are you here?" She asks, already feeling the frustration build up and ready itself to give sarcastic responses to anything he throws her way. "Shouldn't you be off on some elaborate One Direction adventure across the ocean?"

"Here for a wedding, actually, and wanted to see the family." He glares a little, still keeping that mischievous smirk plastered on his face.

"Who's getting married?" She asks, idiotically assuming it is someone in the circle of people in town that she is familiar with.

"James Corden."

"Oh."

Of course it's a celebrity wedding.

"You know…" He takes a few more steps forward, his hands in the pockets of his jeans. "If you want to go, I s'pose I could take you as my plus one."

She immediately scoffs at his arrogance. The way he assumes she even wants to go, and that she'd want to go with him, is ridiculous.

"I'm sure whatever supermodel girlfriend you've got hanging 'round right now would not appreciate that."

"You didn't say no…"

"No, Harry! Get over yourself! Bloody hell!"

"So… why are you over here then?" He asks, chuckling, as Cassidy feels her face get red from frustration.

"I needed to get out of my house 'cause-... I just needed to. So I came to see Gemma."

She accidentally lets out a small sniffle as she feels the tiny drop of moisture make its way down her cheek. She swiftly wipes it away. And then, she sees Harry's expression change to one with widened green eyes.

"Are you crying?" He asks.

Of course she is. Her dad just hurled a bottle of whiskey across the room, shattering it, and yelling at her mum for throwing away something that would be insignificant to anyone else. For just a second, she had the desire to tell the truth. To just let it all out to someone, even someone like him. But that desire only lasted for a second. Why would she ever tell him? He'd probably make her feel worse, or not even care. And why would he, when his life seems to be so glamorous and perfect?

"Piss off. I'm not crying, it's from the wind hitting my face while I was riding over here."

"Cass, I was just asking if, like, you're okay." He replies with a straightforward tone.

"Well…" She raises her hands to tie up her hair, then throws her leg back over the bike and grabs the handles. "I'm fine."

[ present day - Christmas Day ]

"Cass?" Harry states softly, most likely shifting in his seat by the way she can feel the mattress moving. His gentle tone brings her back from the random memory of that random day. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to upset you."

"It's not a big deal, Harry."

"Well, it's not right that he kicked you out of the one place you should've been able to live." He remarks, a harsh tone coating his words sternly. If she wasn't so emotional, she'd allow herself to actually feel the admiration that's arising at the fact that he seems so protective.

"I wouldn't have wanted to have raised her there anyway." She suddenly utters, her head still whirling from the reminder of her past. Technically their past, since he was, unknowingly, there for it.

"What do you mean? Why?"

"Oh… umm… it's just… it's just that…"

"Sorry. It's none of my business."

"It's okay. It's just that my dad would…" She takes as deep of a breath as possible, considering how shaky they are becoming. "He was always drunk. Always. And… he would… would hit my mum."

"What?" He states between gritted teeth. She isn't sure if she's ever seen Harry that mad before. Not even during their little arguments, way back when. "Did… did he ever… did he ever hit you, too?"

Her throat becomes dry as she swallows the lump that stubbornly won't go away.

"No. I… I got pushed a few times." Anger at the memories, and the fact that she even had to make a statement like that in the first place, begins to boil. Rage is probably a better term.

As happy as she was to get out of that situation, she is furious that scenario even played out in her life. It's actually tragic that the two people who were supposed to love and protect her were actually the ones who did the exact opposite. The ones who made her feel unwanted and unsafe.

Her dad made her life a living hell. No child should see their mum being smacked or punched for no reason except the abundance of alcohol in the other parent's system. No child should experience the fear of what their parents could manage to do to them.

"Cass…"

He stops speaking and as she looks over to him, his eyes burn their empathetic gaze right into hers. A sad whimper unintentionally comes from her throat and tears begin to fall as she shuts her eyes.

Instantly, his palms are on her shoulders and her eyes shoot open again to see concern in his eyes. She immediately feels her chest rising and falling quickly, tightening with each labored breath.

"You're alright. Breathe. Inhale and exhale, yeah?" He states softly, with such comfort. It's most likely due to all of the emotions in the moment, she's assuming, but Cassidy can not remember a time that she's felt that safe with him, or ever. But, again, emotions are high.

She nods, staring into his beautiful green eyes and mimicking his movements as he takes in a deep breath with her, then lets it out. He slowly follows that rhythm as his hands glide up and down her arms.

His eyes stay fixed on hers, not wavering for a second, filled with compassion, concern, and care. She is baffled by how different things are now, and how different he seems to be now too.

"That's better…" He utters, keeping his tone calm and steady. "How do you feel?"

She nods, her mind and body still catching up.

"Stupid question, yeah?"

Cassidy gives him a quick, polite smile, but as her head drops, so do her tears. A lot of tears. She immediately feels his strong muscled arms around her, drawing her into his chest.

"I'm so sorry you were going through that." He consoles her.

"It's alright. It's not a big deal." She manages to utter. "Not anymore at least. I haven't seen them since they kicked me out."

[ flashback - Aug 2016 ]

"Mum, you don't have to do this." Cassidy paces around her living room, rubbing her growing belly, with her phone pressed tightly against her ear. "You don't have to leave."

She hears a sigh on the other end of the line, and her chest tightens. She feels as if her attempts are futile. They always have been.

"CJ, he's my husband. He supports me-"

"He beats you!" Cassidy yells, immediately throwing her hand over her mouth.

"He's… he's gotten better…" Her mum replies, but her voice lacks anything that could convince her daughter that there is any truth behind her statement.

"Mum, please… please don't move away with him. I'm getting my own place, it's small but maybe you-… I need you and I can't…" She chokes back the cries that want to burst out, wanting to be strong and show her mum the sincere plea behind her words. "I can't help you if you're gone."

Her body drops to the couch as her heart begins to break. She knows that the word 'gone' really has two different meanings, and she cannot fathom the thought of it being the more tragic one.

She also knows that this move would truly cut off all contact between them. Since her dad kicked her out, he has kept a tight watch on her mum's movements, and they've only managed to sneak in a few phone calls here and there. Moving away would destroy that last connection they have. Her mum will be lost to her.

"I'll be alright, CJ. It'll all be alright."

[ present day - Christmas Day ]

"Don't-... please don't do that." He pleads, and she feels him bring her just a little bit closer. Into his body and also back to the present again. "Please don't say it's alright. What he was doing wasn't alright."

"I… I know." She replies, and she hears his sigh coming from where his head rests on top of hers.

She never thought she'd be here, telling Harry about her past, and being comforted by him about it. The emotions are definitely getting the best of her. He's managing to get the best of her. Maybe. And at the moment, she is willing to allow it to happen. It's been a long time since she's talked about any of this. She didn't realize that she had been needing to get it all out. Even if it is to the one person she never thought she'd share it with.

"I feel so stupid. How did I not see it?"

"Because I did my best to hide it. It was something I really didn't want anyone to know. At all. Gemma only knew because, well, she's my best friend, and because she was there once when it happened…" She sighs, squeezing her eyes shut firmer as if opening them would take her back to those horrible moments. "She told Robin and Anne, understandably, and they said they'd let me over anytime I needed to. It's why I slept over so often."

"I really wish I had known. I could've helped you…"

"There wasn't anything you could've done, Harry, especially not back then. And it wasn't your job to help anyway. We weren't even friends at the time."

"At the time?"

"What?"

"You just said we weren't friends 'at the time'. Does that mean we're friends now? Or, I mean, can we… be friends now?" His question is full of hope, even though he looks as if he is preparing for rejection. Again. As she takes a moment to consider it all, she watches as a small, cheeky smirk appears as a replacement. "It could be your Christmas gift to me…"

Suddenly, the small, but demanding, voice of Cecelia bursts out from the other bedroom, instantly catching the attention of the two of them. Cassidy gives Harry an apologetic smile as she begins to stand.

He shoots up from the bed, facing her as they both seem to refuse to simply break away from the vulnerable moment they have just been in. Another call from Cecelia booms through the hallway and as Cassidy turns towards the doorway, she lets out a sigh. She doesn't even know why. It's not as if the moment, or conversation, was in any way positive to the point that she wouldn't want to leave. But somehow it felt nice. And maybe, just maybe, it has something to do with the fact that the two of them seem to finally be able to tolerate being in each other's presence. Maybe, just maybe, they can hang out like he used to ask for. She knows for a fact that Cecelia would not oppose. And that's just it. Cassidy wants her daughter to be surrounded by good people, which Harry seems to be now.

"Yes. We can be friends now. Happy Christmas."

Series Masterlist

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pacifymebby · 1 year ago

Text

t r o u b l e / chapter seventeen

"No, no Ada, don't you try to calm me down, I won't calm down alright I won't calm down not whilst she's out there right..."

I stopped dead at the sound of Tommy's gritted teeth voice, a quiet and cutting tirade against Ada in the next room. I could see them through the open door and though for a moment I'd hoped he wouldn't see me, when I recognised the anxiety in them both my own nervous curiosity got the better of me.

The hallway tiles were cold and my bare feet stuck to them as I stood there, my wet hair dripping, cold water trickling from my shoulder to be soaked up by my damp sweater.

"Fen!" he spoke sharply, his eyes locked with mine a little desperate. This was as close to panic as I'd ever seen on Tommy and as Bonnie came to a halt just behind me, his hand on my lower back must have felt the fearful shiver which shot through me when my brother called out to me.

Ada caught his arm with the back of her hand, a short sharp shock which made him soften his tone, lower his voice just enough to lull me into a false sense of security.

"Fen," he said again softer this time than before, "come here a minute sweetheart, come talk to us.." he said beckoning me in with his hand and a pair of eyes which told me not to ask any questions. It was a look i recognised on Tommy, the brother who had always believed "do as I say not as I do."

"What is it Tommy, why do..." I started but when I did as he said and came to stand before him, looking up at him with trepidation in the wobble of my bottom lip he shushed me, a finger to his lips.

I shot a glance over my shoulder to see Bonnie still stood there, leaning in the doorframe, quietly surveying the situation himself. He wore a small frown, his eyes dark as he watched me standing before my brother, shrinking into myself.

"Want you to listen very carefully to me now eh Fen, cause this is very important alright? Whatever your sisters told you eh, whatever secrets shes asking you to keep for her I need you to tell me now..."

"What?"

"Tommys right Fen... For once.." said Ada, "whatever Sylvie's doing, wherever she's gone off to Tommy needs to know... The Italians are..." but I'd stopped listening to them the moment that one word had left Ada's lips. My stomach sunk like a stone. Gone.

"What do you mean gone?"

"Come on Fen don't be like this eh, haven't got time for any tricks, just tell us where she's gone so we can..."

"She's gone? What do you fuckin mean she's gone Tommy?" I asked my heart racing away from me, my whole world shrinking around me, making me feel so much smaller than everyone else as I looked between Ada, Bonnie and my brother. They all wore the same dark look, one of knowing. Like they knew something I didn't. Like they were worried about things I couldn't even dream of worrying about.

Ada held herself, arms crossed over her chest as she let out a sigh and shook her head, tried to be sympathetic when she turned her sorry eyes on me.

"I know you want to protect your sister Fen but tellin Tommy where she's gone, that will protect her... Whatever she's doing she ain't gonna be in trouble..."

"Well that depends what she's fuckin doin..." smirked John earning a wack around the back of the head from Arthur. I hadn't noticed the two of them sitting side by side on the sofa, John with his legs kicked out, laid back as you like. Arthur pale as a sheet, looking like he might be about to kill someone.

"Fen," said Tommy his impatience beginning to show, his jaw tight, his eyes dark and threatening a frozen hell, "no secret keepin in this family eh, wheres your sister?"

"I..." I didn't know what to say to him, didn't want them to think I was lying to them, couldn't tell them the whole truth. "I don't know Tommy... I haven't seen her since this morning in the... What do you mean she's gone?" I couldn't get my head around it, couldn't get the words to sink in.

She couldn't be gone. She couldn't have just left without saying a word, without even warning me so that I at least might know she was safe. Of course it occurred to me that this interrogation might have been exactly the reason for Sylvie to leave without saying goodbye to me, even so, it didn't make it any less lonely to learn that she'd left me there alone. I felt alone then, my older siblings eyes all starring me down. Ada disbelieving, her eyes widening with frustration as she met mine. She mouthed something to me but I couldn't make it out. Couldn't concentrate on anything because my sister was gone and no one would tell me what was going on.

"She's fucking gone Sonya! Now what part of gone do you not understand?" snapped Tommy his voice never raising above that quiet and steady monotone. His eyes and the sudden sharp of his tongue startling me. I flinched but didn't dare humiliate myself by averting my gaze, remained stubbornly starring him down, fingers digging into the palm of my hand as I clutched at the sleeves of my sweater and held on for life.

"Sylvia's gone right, she's not here. She's taken her things and she's fucking gone which means she's putting not only herself but the whole fucking family in danger so you're going to stop this childish nonsense now eh little sister and you're going to stop fuckin lying for her..."

"Tommy!" scolded Ada though he cut her off before she could make her weak defence.

"No Ada, we don't keep secrets in this family," he said stepping up so close to me that I had to tip my head back just to meet his gaze. He towered above me and even with his slight build he shadowed me completely. Made me feel terribly small.

"No fuckin secrets," he said pointing down at me, his finger too close to my eyes, impossible not to wince away from. But I held my ground, blood run cold feeling smaller by the second.

My words weren't supposed to come out a whisper but they did. I wasn't sure whether it made them easier to believe or not.

"You already know my secrets." I said quietly, voice trembling like the rest of me as I glared up at him, resisting the urge to blink, feeling the sting of the tears I was trying to hold back. I knew the moment I closed my eyes they'd all come flooding out.

Tommy turned away from me then, his finger still pointing accusatory between my eyes.

"For fuck sake," he muttered, snapping his fingers at our brothers, nodding for one of them to get up and join him. As if having two of them stare me down would open me up.

But they couldn't have got the truth from me even if I'd wanted to hand it to them, because I didn't know it myself. And it was that fact that was really breaking my heart. Not the confirmation that Tommy didn't trust us, didn't really see us as being part of the family in the way our other siblings were. It was the realisation that Sylvie didn't trust me. That we'd been keeping secrets from another for too long. That somehow, sometime very recently, the gemini thread between us had been pulled to tight and had snapped. That she didn't think she could tell me about this, this wild, fucking reckless great escape, it meant we weren't as close as we once were. As I'd always believed we would be.

"John, get up for fuck sake, fuckin talk to your sister..." Tommy waved his hand, beckoned John towards us, who did as Tommy bid with a sigh and a roll of his eyes.

"If she ain't tellin you she ain't tellin me," shrugged John, a lazy smirk on his lips as he shoved his hands in the pockets of his joggies and looked down at me. A conspiratorial light in his eyes, a smirk designed to make me believe he was on my side, not Tommys. It was the sort of smirk I'd believed in one too many times as a child playing tig and had learnt to be wary of long ago now.

"Right Fen, now you 'eard our big brother eh, Sylvie might be in trouble yeah so no coverin for her..."

"What happened to snitches get stitches?" I glowered up at him, sullen watery eyes determined to remain on the chic side of tragic.

"Jesus fuckin christ S..." snapped Tommy, his shout met by John's in an instant.

"Oi! Don't fuckin shout at her!"

One brothers hand shooting out to catch the others wrist before Tommy could snatch at my sweater and petrify me.

"She's fuckin lying to us John! Her sisters god knows where and she's fuckin laughin at us!"

"She's not fuckin laughin at you Tom! Look at her! Fuckin look at her you're terrifyin her!" John cried, all his anxiety and distress forcing their way out of him then. His spit flecking Tommy's cheek as he got between me and our older brother so that I was no longer forced to look up into Tommys unforgiving eyes.

"I'm not a fuckin liar Tom!" I said quietly, my voice probably going unheard as my brothers teetered on the edge of a fight.

"Maybe she should be scared eh John, maybe she should be fuckin scared..." said Tommy standing down, his finger no longer pointed, his jaw no longer clenched tight and sharp.

"Is Isaiah with her?" I asked then, my voice quiet, still shaking as I looked around the room and realised he wasn't there with them. It gave me a glimmer of hope see, to think that wherever she was, whatever reckless way she was choosing to endanger herself, Isaiah was with her. Someone I could trust to take care of her, someone who knew what she was like, what she might be capable of. Someone she wouldn't be able to surprise as easily as perhaps she expected...

But when Tommy shook his head my stomach dropped.

"He's not here," he said, "but theres no way to know for sure that he's with her..."

"And if we find out he's let her boss him around like you did when you were little..." grinned Arthur making John chuckle. Making even Tommy crack the most fleeting of smirks.

"Alright boys enough posturing..." warned Ada, one last look to me, begging me to tell them the truth, sympathetic though because she could tell I really did know nothing, "but your brothers are right Fen, if she tries to..."

"Left her phone here didn't she," grumbled Arthur earning a giggle from Ada who cut him off scrunching her nose up at him.

"Alright old man, don't just use phones to talk to people now do we..." She said before announcing that she was going to check on Karl. That after that she was going to check on Pol who's absense suddenly seemed strange to me until Tommy told Ada where she was.

"Not by you perhaps."

"She doesn't want to be disturbed..." he said locking eyes with Ada who turned him down without a second thought.

🌼🐻🌼

When Ada left the rest of us remained quiet and still but only for a moment. John sat back down, legs stretched out long, one crossed over the other. Hands shoved in his pockets. His gloomy doomed eyes looked to his brothers, the three of them waiting for the other to speak up.

Tommy stood, still close to me, holding his chin in his hand. When he moved away from me, paced to the window and took out a cigarette I longed to ask if I could have one too.

I watched Arthur as he sighed and joined Tommy in the window. I watched John as he copied from where he sat leaning back into the settee. The three of them blew smoke out of sync, slowly clouding the little room with thin whisps of grey.

"Have you spoken to me da?" asked Bonnie, his voice disturbing the quiet.

John was looking at me but with the distance of someone who couldn't see at all. His skin was pale with worry and his freckles only seemed to add to the nauseous grey my sister had painted him with.

He was standing just behind me, I could feel him there just to the left of my shoulder, it should have felt too close but it wasn't. If anything I felt my fingers resisting the urge to reach for his. To hold his hand if not only to have an ally.

"Sent Johnny Dogs and Charlie out with some men to search nearby. We need your dad and your family to stay close to the house... Need to work under the assumption that this is the work of the Italians and, if it is, Sylvie's the distraction and the worst is yet to come..."

I couldn't help but notice how he changed when he spoke to Bonnie. So matter of fact, so business like. Bonnie couldn't really have been so much older than me for Tommy to see a difference and yet, it was only I who was spoken to like a child. Only I who found herself left out of the wordless conversations which surrounded me at all times when I was with my brothers.

"This is the Italians?" I asked turning to Tommy with wide eyes, eyes which should have shown him the truth I was telling him.

"We don't know so we have to prepare for the worst Fen..." he said, "thats why its important you ain't keepin any secrets... If you know something Sonya..."

"I don't," I cut him off, my voice sharp and defensive. A tightness in my throat which made it difficult to breath or to speak without showing how much it hurt. Without showing how scared I was.

I stood trembling, resisted the urge to wrap my arms around my waist and hold myself but only for a moment. When I crumbled seconds later I couldn't hold myself tight enough. Couldn't stop the cold which gripped me.

"The worst..." I said stopping myself before I could say anymore, before I could make myself cry.

"Bonnie," said Tommy with a sigh, "why don't you help Fen to her room eh, she's upset, looks tired..." he said holding his hand up to quiet me when I tried to protest, "if you can't tell us where she's gone you can't help us Fen so it'd be better if you went upstairs eh, got some sleep... Somewhere safe."

I knew I couldn't argue. I didn't have the heart to argue anymore anyway. So numb with shock, with disappointment. With the cold feeling that chills your bones and slows your mind right down so that you can't process anything that scares you.

All I could do was stand there, holding myself, trying to hold myself together for long enough to look the three of them in the eyes and tell them why it really hurt.

When Bonnie's fingers skimmed mine I let mine slip between his as if tugged on by a magnetic force drawing us together.

"You don't trust me, yet you think Sylvie would..."

No one said a word but I felt his other hand come to rest on my shoulder, the gentle squeeze an attempt to lure me back to life. It was just enough to remind me I wasn't totally see through. That even if my brothers were looking through me, I was there. A real girl with a real broken heart.

He squeezed my hand too, his hand swallowing mine whole, fingers locking over my knuckles like a protective shell and when he tugged gently on my arm I moved as if in a trance. I was watching Tommy still and as I drifted backwards out through the door I'd been lured through under false pretences earlier that evening, I remained with my eyes fixed on John's dull ones, willing him to look at me with some kind of recognition.

We let the door close behind us and at the foot of the stairs Bonnie stopped.

"Do you mind me coming with you?" he asked looking back over his shoulder down the hallways, "into your room like... I don't mind just hangin around outside... Get me a little stool, set up me camp.

"Its fine," I said softly, my throat aching with the pain of every word I forced through it.

"Are you sure..."

"I'm sorry if I upset you earlier lass..." he said, his own speech stunted too, awkward because it sounded as though he were holding back.

"Uhuh," I said ever so quietly then, holding onto his hand a little tighter than he was holding onto mine.

"Its fine," I said trying to regain a little self confidence, trying to steady the shake in my voice when I stopped outside the bedroom doorway and turned, back up against the door, with a self depricating smile, shy eyes I didn't really know I had. "Told you didn't I, I cry all the time..."

As if he had a lot more to say than he was allowing himself to.

I leant back against the door feeling the give and sway as it opened behind me and my body leaning against it pushed it open.

"Take Sylvie's bed if you like," I said chewing my cheek as I slid down to the floor at the foot of my own bed. I'd been going to try and stretch out the tight doomy feeling in my shoulders and spine but when my legs bent and I felt my skirt skim the floor I gave in, just let my bum hit the floor with a quiet thump. Sat there gazing at the window, the rooms reflection overlayed by the dark of the gardens at night like something out of a 90s coming of age movie.

"Don't think I'll be doing much sleeping somehow," he chuckled choosing, rather than to go to the window or to do as I'd said and throw himself down on Sylvies bed, but instead to slide down to the floor beside me. To link our fingers once more and sit by my side in quiet solidarity.

"You don't know where she is?" he asked, already knowing the answer, no raised brow, just a downcurving smirk and a nod when I shook my head.

"No," he said with a little smile, nudging me in the ribs, "no more than any other Shelby eh..." but I knew from his teasing little grin that he really did believe me. That the ally I'd hoped to find downstairs had been found in him.

"I'm not a liar," I said again and he nodded seeming to think about it but only really for a second or two.

#Trouble #Peaky blinders #peaky blinders imagines #bonnie gold x reader #Peaky blinders x oc #tommy shelby sister!#Shelby sister

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phxntomsdusk · 1 year ago

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Eye on the ball - part 2 - masterlist

previous | next

summary: she still hates your guts, but is beginning to find new ways to annoy you even further.

warnings: swearing, wilma being rude of course, angst

tags: @lillylvjy , @ax-y10 , @joviepog , @pheliiaa , @idontreallyexistyet , @rqvii , @vibestillaxxx (ask to be added!)

word count: 1.3k

The utter thought of Wilma had been haunting you since the last game. You had been worried if you somehow upset her, wanting to apologize, but didn’t know what for! Your mom picked up your behavior during a practice, and decided that throwing you into the mix would make things so much better.

She had you play a makeshift outfielder, just running around and grabbing balls that had been hit out there. One of your moms coach friends was hitting the balls to the girls, each at a different in-field spot, taking turns to get the balls and throw them to first base.

You didn’t have to do much, just occasionally jog across the grass, and toss the ball to the closest person. But it kept being Wilma.

She was at third base, and anytime the coach hit it towards it, it was either too far to the side, too high, too fast, it was just enough to have her come up to you and snatch the ball from your grasp.

Her annoyed look and hushed insults didn’t go unnoticed, but you didn’t say anything. Just pressed your lips into a thin line and nodded her off.

It had been going on for the past half hour, until she finally had enough and decided to take her annoyance out on you.

“Jesus Christ, hurry up.” She scoffed as you reached for the ball, ignoring your pants for air, simply glaring at you. “I’m- trying-..” You huffed and put the ball in her glove, bending forward and placed your hands on your knees.

She didn’t move though, laughing quietly to herself as she looked down at you. “You’re really this tired? That’s pathetic. It’s been only 30 minutes, you can do better than that.”

She walked away with a shit eating grin, throwing the ball to the first basemen. Her words irritated you, and for some reason, gave you the motivation to prove her wrong. You knew she didn’t like you, but insulting you straight to your face? I mean.. come on!

You quickly removed the sweater you were wearing, leaving it in the dugout and stretched a little. The girls had a few minutes to get water, eat a snack, and such. The next practice drill was gonna be catching fly balls, and throwing someone out. And you were stuck as the decoy runner.

You stood at first base, your breathing unsteady as you waited for your opportunity. You had been going easy on the girls, making it simple to throw you out.

Until Wilma was up.

You smiled to yourself, stretching your legs a bit as you watched your mom toss a ball up, and hit it high. You instantly started running faster, managing to get to second base before she even had the chance to throw.

The look on her face was priceless, she was fuming. She requested to try again, only to get the same result. And again.. and again.

“You know, Wilma. Psychopath behavior is going the same thing, the same way, expecting a different result. Might wanna.. give up?” You cupped your hands around your mouth, making your words louder.

She let out a sound of annoyance, storming off into the dugout and threw her glove into her bag. It was nice to see her so upset, until your mom scolded you and told you to be nicer.

Another hour passed by, and everyone was just tired. Half the girls had started taking breaks to run to the water fountain, having run out of their drinks.

Some girls were using their jackets to wipe off sweat, but Wilma kept a straight face, acting like she wasn’t internally dying.

She wanted to prove she was better than you. She just wanted to one up you.

She hated how all the attention was suddenly on you, the other girls were praising how you managed to handle the drills better than them, and you weren’t even on the team.

She wanted the praise, she wanted the looks from everyone else, she wanted to be in your spot. You weren’t even a player, yet they replaced her with you instantly. She used to be the star player of the team, and all of sudden you strolled in.

Well, that’s just how she saw it.

In reality the other girls hated it almost just as much as her, but for a different reason. They hated how you were forced to pick up after them, hated how you were put on the other end of getting hurt from their mistakes.

They didn’t want you to get hurt, but Wilma? She didn’t wanna hurt you physically, just your feelings. And it was painfully obvious at this point. Any slight glance in your direction was one filled with absolute annoyance and irritation.

When your mom told the girls to go back out onto the field, she was thankful to get away from you, and wore a shit eating grin as your mom gave you a somewhat disappointed look and pulled you aside.

“What is up with you and Wilma?” She crossed her arms under her chest, looking down at you with raised brows. “I don’t know, she started it.” You threw your hands up in defense, looking out at the field, seeing her staring at you with a knowing look.

“She’s been shitty to me since she first met me, and I don’t know what I did! She tried to make me get hit with her bat and balls, it’s insane.” You groaned at the thought of it, watching as your mom sighed and walked past you, shaking her head before speaking. “Just.. get a glove. You’re gonna help some more.”

You could only agree with her, grabbing a random glove she had brought and made your way onto the field, going to the spot she told you to stand in. You were gonna catch the balls from the first basemen and toss them into a bucket, simple.

It was the one time Wilma didn’t make it hell for you, and you were more than grateful for this. Even if she was staring you down like prey, she wasn’t saying or doing anything.

It was around 10 PM when practice finally ended, most girls having a ride already there to come and pick them up.

Your mom left you to pick up some stray things on the field, when all of a sudden you felt a presence behind you. You glanced over your shoulder and saw Wilma, raising a brow at her. “What do you want?” Your tone came off harsher than you wanted it to, crossing your arms over your stomach.

“Just wanted to see if you knew when our next game was.” She shrugged like it was nothing, as if she hadn’t been tormenting you for weeks at this point. “No. I don’t.” Which was a lie, you knew their entire schedule, you even helped with it.

You returned to what you were doing before, only to feel a hand on your side, and her whispering down in your ear. “Might wanna think twice about lying to me, y’know. Coach likes me a lot, if I simply start complaining about you, she may listen.”

The sudden contact threw you off, looking back at her and shoved her off, scoffing under your breath. “Whatever. It’s next Saturday.” You entered the dugout again, putting your things into your bag. She walked back with a small satisfied smile, patting your back roughly. “Thanks. See you then.”

Her words just bothered you more, why was she acting all buddy-buddy now? First she acted like she wanted to tear your throat off, and now she’s touching your waist and getting close and personal? What was her problem?

You watched from afar as she got into her truck, the high beams blinding you and forced you to look away. You sighed and rubbed your eyes, quickly grabbing your and your moms bags, before walking into the parking lot and placed everything in the trunk.

Your mom was talking to the other coach, leaving you with time to stare off at Wilma, an annoyed look on your face still.

You really didn’t wanna see her.

#phxntomsdusk #phxntoms fics #wilma soot #wilma soot x y/n #wilma soot x you #wilma soot x reader #wilma soot angst #softball!wilma

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jojo0039 · 2 years ago

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*Summer Heat* Parcel 9 Part 1

Jo wakes up in her new room at her dad's house. She hears a knock on her door. "Are you decent?" Her dad asks from outside. Jo stands up and opens the door. "I know that you're mad at me right now and that's fine. But you will respect the house rules even if you don’t like them." he tells her. She sighs and sits down on the bed. He sits down on her chair. "I need you in the house every night at 11 during the summer and 10 during school days. I need to know where you’re going to be at all times. I don’t want you just hanging out on the cut all the time with your friends." he tells her. "You will be in for dinner at least four nights a week. If you need the car then you need to say what for. You're not running off doing whatever with your friends anymore. Do I make myself clear?" he finally states. "Yes dad." she finally says. "I know this isn't what you want. But until you can start making better decisions this is the way things have to be." he tells her. "Can I at least use the car to go get some of my stuff from mom's?" she asks. He reaches into his pocket and pulls out the car keys. "You can use it for today. I need it back by 6." he tells her as he hands them to her. "Ok thanks." she says. He stands up and kisses the top of her head. "Things will get better kiddo. Just give it time." he tells her. He leaves the room and she starts to get dressed. She manages to leave the house without running into Topper. She is pulling out of the driveway when she spots John B walking down the road coming from the Cameron house. She pulls up beside him. "Get in." she says. "Thanks. This saves me from walking." he tells her. "Where we going?" she asks him. "The Wreck. Everyone is gonna meet us there." She glances down at the cast on his arm. "How are you feeling?" she asks. "I've been better that's for sure." he replies. ********************************************************* Once they make it to the Wreck, John B instantly starts telling the group what has been going on the past couple of days. "I'm sorry you're staying where?" Kie asks with attitude as she restocks the salt and pepper shakers. "I'm staying at Tannyhill." he tells them. "So you’re living with Sarah Cameron." Kie smarts. "Okay look, the only reason I'm living there is because her dad bailed me out." John B moves from the counter and over to the table where everyone else was already sitting. "It is way better than foster, which by the way is where I was about to go if Ward didn't-" John B gets cut off. "So do you guys both have memberships to the club now?" Pope asks. Jo rolls her eyes. "First of all, I've always had a membership which I've never heard you complain about before." Jo says as she throws a fry at Pope. "What about a golf cart? Do you get to drive one around?" JJ inputs. "Does it come with a sweater vest or do you have to buy one of your own?" Pope teases. "Look John B you promised that you weren't with her." Kie starts. "She's got you man. Just own it." JJ states as he sits down next to Jo. "Look, if you wanna hang out with her, that's fine. But I'm letting you know right now that I'm not doing anything with her. " Kie complains. "Do you guys see her here right now? No, you don't because it's still just about us. Okay, so a little focus would be fantastic. So we have the map right?" John B states getting right to the point. "Well, the thing is it's all out of whack 'cause the guy was ganja'd when he drew it." JJ states looking at the map. Jo looks down at the map. "It's because the coast has changed." She informs JJ with a look. He gives her a look back with a small smile. "So we should just look for landmarks that haven't changed" Pope says. "What about the old forts?" John B suggests. "Battery Jasper!" Jo and Kie speak at the same time. They both laugh before the gang gets up and head to the van. **************************************** Once they make it to Battery Jasper, they pull out the map and lay it flat on the monument so they can all look at it. "We're at battery here." Pope points on the map. "So if this is parcel nine, then it's somewhere northeast of here." Pope points out in the direction he was talking about. "Over there?" Kie asks. "Yea." Pope confirms. "Guys, over there isn't Tannyhill. Its a subdivision." JJ states. "Tannyhill Plantation was once the entire island. It just got sold into smaller pieces over time." John B informs them. Jo looks back at the map. "Okay guys, so we need to look for an old stone wall." Jo points out on the map. "Do we know where there is an old stone wall?" JJ asks as they head back to the van. "I know I've seen one before I just can't remember where I saw it at." Jo says as she climbs in behind JJ and Kie in the van. Pope sits in the front as he tries to read the map and gives John B directions. "Ok so the road should split up here." Pope directs. "Take this left here." John B makes a sharp left causing Jo to fall into JJ. He wraps his arm around her waist as she sits up. They lock eyes before they feel the car come to a stop. Jo looks out the window and sees a stone wall. "Yea that looks like a stone wall to me." JJ states as he opens the van door. "I knew I thought I had seen a stone wall somewhere." Jo comments. "Oh man, not the Crain house." John B breathes out. "Why did it have to be here of all places?" Pope groans. "I heard that Mrs. Crain buried her husband's head on the property." JJ tells them. *********************************** They climb over the wall and jump down into the yard. The grass is overgrown and by the looks of things there hasn't been any lawn care for years. "Look you guys know whose house this is right?" Kie starts as they start walking through the big yard. "Oh yea I know." JJ comments. "Honestly I don't even believe all the stories told about this place." John B tries to sound brave. Jo starts to laugh. "You're a big liar John B. I know you remember when our dads used to scare us when we were younger." Jo calls him out. JJ comes to stand beside and hovers over her. "Like what stories did you hear?" he asks sounding a little scared. Jo gives him an amused look. "The one where she killed her husband with an axe, and that she's been holed up here in the house ever since." Jo starts with a laugh. "On the nights when the moon is full, you can see her in the window." Kie teases as she makes a spooky sound at JJ. Jo starts laughing. "See no Kie that's not funny cause all of it is true." JJ defends himself. "I swear to god you guys, the stories are true. I knew Hollis. Jeez!" JJ jumps as a statue scares him. "Wait how the hell do you know Hollis?" Jo asks not believing a word that he is saying. "She was my babysitter for the longest time. She told me the truth about what happened with her mother and what happened in this house that night." he tells them. "As a kid, she heard all the stories about how her mother killed her father. She never used to believe it. Until that night." JJ pauses waiting for their reactions. "What night?" John B asks sounding intrigued with the story. "The night it all came back to her." They all wait for JJ to continue. "When Hollis was six years old, she heard her parents arguing downstairs. She goes downstairs to see her mom washing her hands in the sink filled with blood." Jo starts to feel uncomfortable with the story. "Her mother told her that she cut her hand. The next morning, she says her father and her split up. But then Hollis noticed something." JJ tells them. "What?" Jo asks. "Her mother going into the parlor constantly. In and out and in and out with plastic bags. Weeks pass and Hollis decides to use the outhouse. When he does she looks down and there staring at her is her father's head." JJ tells them dramatically. "God you are so full of shit." John B tells him not believing a thing he says. He starts to walk off and JJ chases after him. "Are you sure you wanna do this? She's an axe murderer. You got a cast on." JJ argues. "I don't care if she's an axe murderer, ok. I got nothing to lose. Are you guys coming or what?" John B walks off and Pope and Kie follow behind. Jo stops in front of JJ. "You're really spooked aren't you?" She asks as she places a hand on his arm in comfort. JJ makes a face. "What? Me? No!" he denies. "Its ok Jay. You're secret is safe with me." Jo jokes. JJ grabs her hand and pulls her closer to him. "I can think of something that will help me feel better." JJ whispers to her. "Oh yea? What is that?" she asks back with a small smile. JJ leans in closer to her. "I've been thinking about doing something for a while." he tells her. "What?" she whispers. "Guys come on! Come here!" They quickly pull away from each other. Jo turns and walks in the direction her friends went. ************************************** Jo can tell when JJ comes to stand beside her. They all huddle together. "So here's the plan. We need to look for the wheat near the water like it said in Denmark's letter." John B tells them. "So we need to look for the wheat near the water, like it said in Denmark's letter." John B comes up with the plan. "Okay but like what kinda water?" Pope asks. "Yea like is it specific like a pond or a creek or a stream?" Jo asks. "Bong water?" JJ suggests. Jo's face twists up as she gives him a dumbfounded look along with her other friends. She reaches up and pinches his cheek teasingly. "You’re lucky you're cute man." she jokes. JJ swats her hand away as she laughs. "Guys come on, it just says to look for water ok." John B tells them. "That is the shittiest secret message ever." Kie complains as she starts walking off. "You wanna complain a little more Kie? Nobody said this was gonna be easy." John B argues walking off after her. Jo sighs and follows behind them as she starts looking around. She back tracks and sneaks up behind JJ. She watches as he looks around frantic like. She steps on a branch on purpose to mess with him. He quickly turns around but doesn't see her. She puts her hand over her mouth to stop laughing as he turns back around. She jumps out from behind the tree. "Boo!" JJ jumps so high. She starts laughing so hard that he finally realizes it's just her. "Oh you are so dead!" he exclaims as he rushes toward her. She's still laughing as she puts her hands out in front of her in surrender. "No don't!" she exclaims as she is still laughing. He grabs her by the waist and starts tickling her. "Guys!" John B hisses out at them. "Come on, let's check in here." he tells them as he points to the cellar door. Jo and JJ follow behind everyone as they bend down to go into the basement. Jo grabs the flashlight out of her back pocket and looks around. "Down came Mrs. Crain and cut off all our heads." JJ starts singing as he follows behind Jo. "Up came the sun and dried up all our blood." Jo and Pope both turn around and flash their lights at him. "Can you stop?" Pope demands. "Yea your singing is sure to wake up Mrs. Crain." Jo insults. She starts looking around the room and all she finds is junk that looks to have been there a while. She swats at the mosquitos that start to fly at her. "Another dead end?" Kie states sarcastically. "You wanna know why we didnt find it? Bad karma." she states. John B rolls his eyes as Jo crosses her arms and waits for the blow-up . "Oh God here we go!" John B murmurs. Kie steps closer to him. "You know, we had a good thing going. And then you decided to rope in Barbie, and now the trail has gone dry. Coincidence? Probably not." Kie accuses and insults. "This is exactly why I didn't wanna tell you about Sarah!" John B argues back. "What the hell is the deal with you two anyway?" he asks. "Nothing!" Kie states. "Oh really? Nothing? The only other person who seems to know anything is Jo and won't say anything either." John B continues to argue. "Don't drag me into this. This has nothing to do with me." Jo retorts. "Is it because I kissed you? Is that the problem?" John B accuses. Jo raises her eyebrows in shock. "You did not just say that!" Jo exclaims as Kie smacks him across the face. "Oh shit!" JJ and Pope comment from beside her. "That echoed dude" Jo watches the exchange knowing that Kie could destroy their friend if she really wanted to. "Stop treating me like I'm some girl obsessed with you. Instead of your best friend who is actually just trying to look out for you!" Kie lectures. "Did you just uh hit me?" he asks shocked. "Yea I just did-" John B hits her back across the face. Jo steps forward instantly getting ready to push him away from her best friend. "Come on-" "That's not cool man-" "Skeeter." John B states. "Where is your proof?" Kie asks. John B shows his hand and a dead mosquito is sitting on his hand. He starts hitting her again and they go back and forth hitting each other. "I cant with you guys right now." Jo rolls her eyes at her friends. She keeps swatting at mosquitos and it seems like more and more keep coming. "What the hell is going on? Why the hell would there be so many of these things right now?" Jo questions as she swats. "That's what I'm trying to figure out. They have to come from somewhere." Pope thinks. Jo comes to stand beside him. "What are you thinking?" she whispers to him. He looks at a certain spot on the ground. "Do you have a penny or something on you?" he asks her. She digs in her pocket and pulls out a penny. "Yea here." she hands it to him. Pope starts stepping on some crates and they hear a creak. Kie and John B aren't paying attention and still hitting each other and laughing and JJ keeps swatting at mosquitoes. Pope drops the penny and they listen for any sounds. They finally hear the penny land and it sounds like water. Pope and Jo look at each other with excitement. "You guys we found something!" Jo got their attention as they quickly come over to them. They all grab an end of a platform and move it. They each lean over and shine their flashlights. They uncovered a well. They all look in shock. "Well, well, well." Pope mutters. "That's a good dad joke." John B states still in shock. "Oh my God you guys." Jo looks up at her friends. "We did it! We found the water!" she laughs. "We're gonna need some very long rope." John B tells them. ********************************* After they leave Jo tells them that she has to look like she spent all day packing up some stuff and get the car back to her dad. Kie and Jo leave and go over and start packing some stuff for her to take to her dad's. Once they get a car load Kie tells her that she'll pick her back up and meet the boys at the château. Jo manages to bring the car back at the time she was supposed to so she won't get in trouble. The girls make it back and instantly spot Sarah sitting with John B. "No effing way!" Kie objects right off the bat. Jo slips past Kie and stands beside Pope who is sitting on a roll chair beside JJ. She knows that Kie isn't going to take this well. Jo personally didn't have a problem with Sarah, but she supports her friends. "You brought her here?! So what, she's in on this now?" Kie questions angrily. The friends all look at each other. "Look the only thing I care about is her cut coming out of your share." JJ comments. Jo reaches over and flicks him in the arm. He just gives her a smile. "You know I don't remember taking a vote! This is our thing! A pogue thing!" Kiara continues to argue. Sarah glares at her from her spot next to John B. "I do have to say that I am a tab bit uncomfortable with this whole thing." Pope comments. "Thank you!" Kie inputs. "When are you not uncomfortable?" John B defends. Jo starts to get defensive. "Why are you talking to Pope that way? He just made a statement." Jo defends. "I rode here on the back of JJ's bike pretty comfortably." Pope smarts as he fist bumps Jo for defending him. "That's real cute." John B retorts. "No what's cute is knowing how everyone would react, yet you still brought her here anyway." Jo argues. "Jo is right. We were all extremely comfortable until you brought her here!" Kie retorts. "Stop talking about me like I'm not here!" Sarah finally argues back. "Then leave." Kiara fires back. Sarah scoffs and turns to John B. "I told you." she states. He looks at her with a sorry look. "Told him what exactly? That you're a liar-" Sarah cuts Kie off. "No, that you're a shit talking bitch!" Sarah yells harshly. Jo stands up to stand beside Kie ready to defend her. "Oh shit!" Pope and JJ were placing bets behind the girls arguing. "You better watch your tone Sarah. You're not on figure eight anymore." Jo warns her. The girls start arguing as the boys continue to say who they think would win. "Everybody shut up!" John B finally yells causing everyone to stop and look at him. "Kie, you are my best friend right? Jo, I know you're just looking out for everybody and I love you for that." He then turns to Sarah. "And Sarah you're my-" he trails off awkwardly. Jo shakes her head and scoffs knowing what he's gonna say. "Say it." Sarah tells him with a small smile. "You're my girlfriend." he finally says. "She's your girlfriend now?" Kie asks. Jo shoots her a glance knowing she's about to start some shit. "What was all of that talk about you were just using her for information? Get the map and cut her loose?" Kie stirs shit with a smirk. Jo starts to feel bad for Sarah. "You said you were just using me?" Sarah asks sounding hurt. "No." John B answers lamely. "Yes you did." "You definitely said those things." "Quit lying to everyone John B!" Jo lectures. John B finally looks up at everyone. "Love just walked in alright." John B tells them. "Oh vomit." Kie comments. "Yea real cheesy dude." Jo inputs. "Listen you guys. It just happened. I didn't mean for it to, but I'm glad that it did. And I'm not gonna deny it." John B defends. "That is super corny." Pope whispers. "Look cut the bullshit, John B. If she's in then I'm out." Kie states. "I'm not doing this with you Kie! I can't." John B argues. "You're gonna have to decide." Kie argues back. "Well, I'm not going to!" John B calmly states. Kie scoffs. "I'm actually very interested, actually us or her?" Kie points between her and Jo. Jo raises her eyebrows when she realizes she's getting pulled back into the argument. "All of you." John B tells her firmly not breaking eye contact. "Oh." Pope commented. "Went for the Hail Mary." JJ commented back. Kie shakes her head and leaves the porch and heads for the dock. "I'm gonna leave. Let you all chat. Just let me know." Without another word or glance at them she leaves. JJ stands up. "Well I think you handled that beautifully." JJ comments sarcastically. Jo shakes her head at JJ before she turns to John B. "That was horrible! You ambushed us with her! How did you really expect Kie to react?" Jo lectures. "What about you? What is your opinion?" John B asks. Jo is walking towards the steps to go talk to Kie when she stops after hearing the question. She sighs and turns back around. "I think you're an idiot and you shouldn't have involved her this way. But I've never seen you look at another girl like that so I know your feelings are real. But what I don't trust is the other kooks hearing about it somehow." Jo states her opinion. "You mean like Rafe?" John B asks. "Yea like Rafe. If he finds out that we are on a treasure hunt, he will try to take it. I've known the boy for years. I know how he thinks. That is the main reason for not wanting Sarah around. Plus she hurt one of my best friends." Jo turns and walks off the porch to go comfort her best friend. Jo walks down onto the dock and sits down next to Kie. "I can't believe he would do this." Kie starts as she doesn't even hide that she's been crying. "He's a boy and he's an idiot. Enough said." Jo jokes. Kie chuckles softly. "You and I both know how this is gonna go. She's gonna get bored and leave John B and tell all the kooks about the gold." Kie accuses. "You may or may not be right. But the truth is we don't know how this is gonna turn out. I know that you had a bad experience with Sarah and it completely shattered you. But things are different now and maybe things are going to be how they’re supposed to be." Jo tries to reassure her best friend. "I don't ever wanna be her friend again." Kie tells her. "I know sweetie." Jo says as she pulls her into a hug. "I love you." Jo whispers to her. "I love you too." Kie answers. They pull away as Pope makes his way down the dock. "I'm gonna go you guys. I have a curfew tonight." she tells them. "Do you need me to drive you?" Kie asks. "Nah it's Ok. I can use the walk." she tells her. ****************************************** Jo is lounging on her bed and it is dark out. She hears a motorbike, but doesn't think anything of it and continues to read her book. She hears a small tap on her window like something is hitting it. She stands up and goes to her window. She looks out and sees Rafe standing out in the yard and he looks like a mess. She sighs and has an argument with herself. She knows that she shouldn't have any communication with him at all. But she has always had a soft spot for the kook and she has a feeling she always will. She opens her window and holds up her finger in a hold-on motion. She shuts her window and opens her bedroom door. Everything is dark so she sneaks down the hallway and down the steps. She sees Topper sleeping on the couch watching something on the tv. She heads to the back patio door and opens it. She walks out onto the yard to where Rafe is standing. "What do you want? Topper is sleeping." Jo tells him. He looks like a lost puppy that doesn't know where to go. "I- I uh I don't have anywhere else to go tonight." he confesses to her. She shakes her head angrily. "Why come here Rafe?" she asks him. He looks nervous and at a loss for words. "I- uh I don't really know. You were just the first person I thought of." he admits. She wraps her sweater around her as a cool breeze passes through. "How did you even know I was here?" she asks him curiously. He shrugs his shoulders. " I didn't. I went to your mom's house first and she told me you were here." he tells her. "Oh." she says shortly. "Can I just stay here tonight?" he pleads with her. She looks shaken and doesn't know what to say. "I will be out of here first thing in the morning. I won't even try anything I promise." he tells her. "Yea, that's fine. Go down at the dock. I have some weed that we can smoke and you can tell me what happened." she tells him finally. He nods his head. "Ok. Thank you, Jo. I really appreciate it." he tells her. She gives him a small smile. "It's not a problem really." She turns and heads back into the house. She quietly rushes up to her room and grabs her favorite bowl, which happens to be the one he got for her birthday last year. She reaches into her small box and grabs her baggie. She stops to take a shaken deep breath. She knows that she is probably making a big mistake in letting him stay, but nobody ever called her smart. She quietly races back down the hall and down the stairs until she snuck out the door. She quietly walks down the dock and sees him sitting on the edge. "Hey." she greets as she sits down next to him. He watches her as she pulls out the bowl and the weed. She packs it silently. "I can't believe you still use that." he comments. "Its a perfectly good bowl. I'm not just gonna throw it away." she tells him. "Do you use it with JJ?" he asks. She gives him a glare. "Don't start, or you can find somewhere else to sleep." She says before she lights the bowl and takes a hit. She feels the smoke fill her lungs as she holds it in and passes him the bowl. He doesn't say anything and hit the bowl. She finally lets out the smoke and coughs. "So why did your dad kick you out?" she asks him. He hesitates before he answers. "I fucked up." he simply tells her. "How bad?" she asks as he passes her back the bowl. She takes another hit and waits for him to answer. "I owed Barry money. I tried to take a watch from dad and he caught me." he confesses to her. She shakes her head. "I'm not gonna lecture you anymore because what you do isn't my business, but you're better than that Rafe. I wish you never met Barry." she tells him. He looks at her with sad eyes. "I'm sorry Jo. For everything that I have done to you. You didn't deserve anything of what I put you through. I just don't want you to hate me." he tells her. She lets out a small gasp of surprise. She wasn't expecting him to apologize to her. "Thank you. That actually means a lot. And for the record I don't hate you. I honestly don't think I ever could." she says to him. He looks at her. "Yea well you mean a lot so-" he trails off. She gives him a small sad smile. "Can I ask you a question? What's going on between you and JJ?" he asks her. She gives him a hesitant look. "I don't know honestly." she tells him the truth. "I wanna tell you that I was completely jealous seeing you kiss JJ at Midsummers." Rafe confesses as he looks in her eyes. Her eyes widen slightly. "I'm sorry that I did that. It was just to make you mad." she confesses. "Well it worked." he says as he slightly starts to lean forward. Jo feels his breath on her lips and moves away. "Are you ready to head in?" she asks him. He nods his head with a sad look. They stand up and she sneaks him back into the house. Once they're back in her room, she starts to get nervous and he can tell. "I can take the floor it's fine." he suggests. "Don't be silly. The bed is big enough." she tells him. She slides in on the right side and he nods before he slides in on the other side. They lay in silence before she finally decides to say something. "No." she says out loud. "No what?" he asks confused. "I don't use the bowl with JJ or anyone else. I've only ever used it with you." she confesses to him. His eyes widen. "Ok." he responds lamely.

#outer banks #summer heat #fanfiction #jj maybank #rafe cameron #john b routledge #kiara carrera #sarah cameron #pope heyward #oc character #joanna mills #pogues for life

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lovelybarnes · 2 years ago

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flustered- b. barnes

pairings: bucky barnes x reader warnings: very flustered reader, not sure if i exaggerated it too much but i think i did im so sorry about: requested by the lovely stefi!! flustered reader basically lol part 2!

it’s one of those nice kind of days—where the sky is leadened with gloomy cotton balls and the heat of the sun is muted. the grass beneath you is fresh and smells of petrichor in anticipation of the rain, already cold between your fingers and needling through your jeans.

a breeze flutters your lashes, urging your eyes open and your hands to splay like a starfish into the ground. something else pricks at your skin, pulling your eyebrows together.

“hey,” someone says behind you. bucky, you realize.

“hi,” you respond automatically, lolling your head back to catch sight of him. he’s tall and solid and upside down when you blink up at him, eyes just as piercing as they observe you.

“it’s gonna rain,” he informs, stepping over to stand next to you. “y’gonna come back inside?”

“no,” you answer definitively, staring back up at the sky. “maybe when the lightning starts.”

“lightning?” he repeats, grunting when he lowers himself gracefully onto the ground. his knee pokes into your thigh, but he doesn’t move it away.

you go still, concentrating on not shifting weirdly. “it’s pretty, but it makes me nervous.”

“what if i stay out here with you?” he offers.

“what are you going to do against lightning?” you ask, laughing. “maybe if it were thor—”

his own laughter is rough, genuine. lightly, he nudges your shoulder. “punk.”

you grin, a little pleased and a little flustered. “what?”

“i’m offering my protection. super-soldier protection.”

“oh, i’m sorry,” you apologize. “i didn’t realize you guys could control weather.”

“you are…” bucky begins, searching for a word. “incorrigible,” he finishes, teasing.

you bark out a laugh, meeting his eyes. “incorrigible!”

he nods. “‘s okay, though. it’s part of your charm.”

bucky turns to observe your profile, silently scanning your features. your thumbnail goes to trace the nailbed of your index.

you clear your throat, watching the clouds as they roll in the sky. “thank you,” you reply. it comes out a little strangled.

bucky clearly hears it, but his eyes crinkle. he hums. “s’my pleasure. i get to talk to you and see you, y’know, be impossible.”

you nod, not sure when to stop. you’re still stuck on his previous compliment, like a thread caught on a hook and you can’t help but pull, let your sweater unravel green and greedy and coarse.

“i didn’t know that was a charm,” you start unsurely. “or that i had charms, more like.” it’s not smoothly said, a little halted in that you want to explain further, only encouraged to by the chaste curve of his lips, amused and patiently heartening. you urge him to silence you. “or charm? is it just charm, singular? i think of charms more like the bracelet things, but charm could encapsulate the entirety of the—” you crane your fingers and move your hands as if they’re cupping something large. “the idea. which i guess is what you mean and it implies a lot more than one, right?”

you’re rambling, you know.

bucky is grinning, though, purely amused and bastardly pleased. he nods along to your words as if he’s listening closely to each rise in your voice, paying attention to each word.

you clear your throat and attempt to relax your tense shoulders. you’re not uncomfortable, you remind yourself. your anxiety carries none of the unpleasantness associated with it, instead something so largely gracious and massively salubrious that it makes you slightly ditzy, spilling out like honey and sneaking into the cogs of your brain.

it makes the wheels stagger and slow, your mind lagging to dig up something more to say. so, you say: “i bet you were really charming back then. you know, because you were so popular? like steve and everyone says.”

bucky chuckles. “were, huh?”

you know he’s teasing. he’s only ever teasing, but you stammer to take it back. “are! are real charming! really charming. i mean—i meant that it was just, like, a lot back then. not that it isn’t anymore, just… just different?” you have to explain, having piqued his actual interest. “back then, it was smoother? from the way people talk about you, i can’t imagine it wasn’t something automatic. now it’s, it’s more deliberate, i think.”

you’ve been talking for so long.

“but, obviously it still works, right?”

he smiles something small, crinkling the edges of his eyes lightly and mischievously as if he’s caught you in something. “why do you say that?”

you shake your head as you look for a response. “uh…”

bucky decides to take pity on you, moving away from the topic to stretch his torso. a sliver of skin peeks from behind his shirt, gleaming and distracting as you try to look anywhere but there. you fail, obviously, your focus betraying you.

“you look real nice today, you know,” he says, a smidge more serious and totally sweeter.

you heat up immediately, ears burning as you squeeze the lobe between your thumb and index. “you too,” you force out, overwhelmed with the compliment, skin prickling with its genuity.

bucky observes you for a few seconds, eyes slow and deliberate as they take you in from a foot or so away, and then he settles a few inches closer.

“what’s wrong?” he asks, but he doesn’t really want to know, isn’t truly asking in the words’ definitions. there’s a pleased mask in his expression, hiding something flustered from your attention from your scrutiny.

you only blink and shrug, the weight of his gaze increasing with every second he stares. the blue of his irises has always been gentle in a sharp way, deep and crushing and grand like the ocean. warm and comforting like the sun that it reflects.

you swallow when he leans in, close enough for you to be sure he’s being entertained by how flustered he’s making you. you can’t think, you realize after a blank moment, mind crowded with the way his fresh scent interrupts the petrichor.

he’s smiling when he finally pauses in front of your face, nose nearly brushing against yours close, close enough that you can see the stars in his eyes and count each charcoal lash.

"you know you don't have to be so nervous around me?" he whispers.

you shiver, unable to help yourself as you dig teeth into your lips and your attention flickers to his.

they twist up when they notice, only crawling further when you choke out an affirmation. “yeah, yeah. i’m not—”

your reply dies on your tongue when he swoops in, noses nudging when he kisses you. your eyes stay wide open for a moment before they flutter shut, your body frozen before it melts inevitably, slackening into him. one of his hands moves to hold your waist, lips smiling beneath yours as he pulls away.

you swallow, attempting to blot away the haze his kiss has glossed over your mind. his grin isn’t helping, blinding you and chasing away the breath that kisses your lungs.

“i’m not nervous,” you finally force out. “you’re just—just really—”

“i’m really?” he urges.

you frown. “mean,” you finish.

he laughs, and you’re dizzy again.

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pabro-picasso · 3 years ago

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i finally finished this, after a good 3 weeks to a month of working on it

of course when the AC update hit i went stupid hard on it and bulldozed the island and tried to complete every little thing so i neglected everything else, especially drawing

but i was so hooked to the point where i made sticky note doodles of arthur and alfred as villagers at work and then i thought about how the other main 8 plus matthew would look and thats where we are now

theyre grouped by relative geography, and i made the heights of the different villagers consistent across all three drawings B) every piece of clothing is something you can also find in game

ok some explanations under the cut cuz im assuming not everyone wants to read this

ok lets start with the top:

yao is based off of a red-crowned crane, a crane found all over east asia, and i believe the national bird of china? idk, if i got that wrong my bad cuz i was all over the place in researching stuff. i had the hardest time trying to figure out what he should be, and i chose his villager model last. he was gonna be a regular tweety bird villager, but someone mentioned using feathers as a pony tail and the ostrich villager model was the only bird type that does that

ivan of course is a big old bear. i took some creative liberties with the scarf, but i figured that theyll give extra bits to villagers on occasion (like raymonds glasses or audies sunglasses) i struggled a bit w the shirt, but i ended up w a yodel sweater because at the time it looked the best out of all the sweater options. i think if i were to do this again id give him a different one but drawing the knit pattern took too damn long to start over w something else

kiku was also a bit of a challenge. not because picking a villager species was hard, but because of the color scheme. idk, when i think of japanese color schemes my mind automatically went to red black and white and i already had made yao, and it just was feeling too stereotypical at this point. i went with the earthen greens and browns as a reflection of a lot of the vintage japanese furniture in the game. he’s a deer because i instantly thought of the nara deer park and i thought that’d be cute. his antlers and fawn dots also reflect that.

next pic:

francis!!! i originally was going back and forth between a skunk (because of pepe le pew lol) and then a rooster, because roosters are like the animal of france right? but i couldnt get a decent design with either of them. i was scratching and racking my brains when i realized that the literal in canon joke is him being a frog 🤦‍♀️ then the design was almost too easy. i went with pastel colors because i thought of the french courts in the 1700s. while he’s the only one i went anachronistic with, i feel like it still suits him with how cute it is.

ludwig’s a german shepard. p straight forward w this one. i struggled with finding an outfit for him because while there is the bavarian lil leiderhosen suit, it just didnt seem to fit. i went with the collarless coat because it seemed very modern german fashion.

feliciano’s villager species was picked second to last, just before yao. idk, i really struggled with him too because while the entire show’s about him, not much really sticks out to me when it comes to picking stuff for him. there’s not really any classic “italian” animals other than like.... a greyhound? idk im kind of an ignorant boob about the mediterranean countries 😬but, i ended up with a duck because i pictured a matching, angry romano and it seemed hilarious. it didn’t show well, but i based his color schemes off olives. his belly is red like an olive pit. the sweater shirt also seemed very italian to me.

bottom crew (pun intended):

alfred!!!!! we had to go with the obvious classics. not much else to explain about this one. he’s a bald eagle with his flight jacket. i tried to make his design different enough from apollo’s to where it wasnt a one-for-one copy but 🤷‍♀️ not much you can do with a bald eagle

arthur’s a little english rabbit. i thought it would be cute to see him be very little and very angry. i’m not a huge fan of the color scheme i ended up with but tbh i really didnt know what to do with him that would still look good. i tried navy, but it looked awful. i feel like he needed dark, moody colors and the other two boys already had browns and i didnt want to make them all look the same.

and finally, matthew 🥰 while i did say that feli and romano would be matching ducks earlier, you know i had to make this fool a moose. he’s technically a bull character model, but hey this shit aint real i can bend the rules. i tried giving him a maple syrupy color palette, while not being as all out food based like feliciano was, but this might be a bit too subtle. either way tho, coloring him made me hungry. he has a flannel shirt because of course he does hahaha

i had a sticky note with style preferences, personality types and all that but i dont feel like digging for it, this post is long enough anyways, and also its late and i just want to get this shit out already. i’ve been stressing about finishing it for too damn long

#shit i drew #hetalia #hws china #hws russia #hws japan #hws france #hws germany #hws italy #hws america #hws england #hws canada #too many damn tags and too little brain cells #AC crossover #hope it looks decent enough because towards the end i just stopped caring haha

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baepsaesbae · 4 years ago

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Spring Will Come Again

Pairing— Jeon Jungkook x reader

Genre— Photographer!Jungkook x Baker!reader, SMUT +18, fluff, angst, Virgin!Jungkook, Sub!Jungkook, Switch!Jungkook

Warnings— Finger sucking, unprotected sex, multiple orgasms, squirting (?), slight choking, there are a lot of emotions, Jungkook is literally so sweet gosh I just wanna hold him tight, this fic is kind of a rollercoaster of emotions bc I myself do b going thru it

Word Count— ~10.9k

Summary— Springtime generally brings new beginnings, but being stuck in a small town all your life means nothing ever changes. Finally, something, or rather, someone, stumbles into your life. Can this shy boy manage to change your life forever?

A/N— This beautiful banner was made by @dee-ehn! Please let me know what you think of this fic! Hope you guys enjoy~

It all started on a beautiful spring day. Something had convinced you to go on an unprecedented early morning walk for some reason.

The morning air was cold but crisp. You were bundled up in your favorite sweater, and the scarf that your grandmother knitted for you was wrapped snugly around your neck. Normally you would be immersed in your headphones, but since today was already unusual you decided to forgo the music.

You walked along the banks of the stream that flowed next to your neighborhood. This particular stream held nothing but fond memories. You grew up here with all the other kids. During the summer breaks, you’d play out here from morning to nightfall. This was the place where you saw your first fireflies, and where you won your first fist fight.

You stopped to sit on the grassy hill that ran alongside the banks, relishing in nostalgia as you took in a breath of fresh air. Everything is so different now. Everyone moved away to pursue their careers or to go to a big university. You were the only one left. Your parents urged you to go to college, but you refused. Who else would help run the bakery?

As much as you hated to see it, your parents were growing old. Managing the family bakery was getting harder on them. You were such a huge help to them since you basically managed all of the front-of-house work. They worked diligently in the kitchen every day to create the best baked goods in town.

You had always dreamt of leaving this small town. You’ve fantasized about attending a big university in the middle of a bustling city since you were a little kid. Unfortunately, that can’t happen now. You can’t leave your parents or the bakery behind. You held no resentment though, you loved it. Being an only child was a bit lonely at times, but your parents made you feel loved no matter what.

You laid on the grassy hill, watching the clouds roll by. Maybe life was better this way. It was simple, and you always knew what to expect. Day in and day out, the routine was always the same.

Everything changed on that day. That was the fateful day that you ran into him. Or rather, he ran into you.

“Good morning, ____! Where were you this morning? Why weren’t you answering your phone?” your concerned mother asked when you returned home.

“Morning mom. I went on a walk and forgot my phone I guess. Sorry about that. I ended up laying on the hill by the stream,” you replied as you sat at the breakfast table.

Living with bakers was probably one of the biggest blessings in your life. Every meal smelled delectable and you had access to all the fresh goodies you could desire.

“Wow, you were awake before we were? What a surprise. Here, tell me what you think of this loaf,” your dad set it in front of you.

You tossed a piece of bread into your mouth. The taste was savory to say the least. It was your father’s signature banana bread loaf, only this time with a small twist.

“Why’d you take out the walnuts? It’s still delicious though,” you said, devouring another piece.

“Well so many customers complain about having nut allergies now. I thought we could sell more if we take them out! You think we can sell this?” he asked eagerly.

“I think this will be our newest best seller!” you happily replied, “I’m gonna go open up the shop. See you guys soon,” you kissed them each on the cheek before taking your leave.

The bakery was down the street from your house, so the commute was only about 5 minutes even if you walked slowly. You brought your phone with you this time, so you were jamming out to your music, oblivious to the outside world. You were so out of it, that you didn’t have time to react to the person quickly rounding the corner.

One moment you were walking to work, the next you were knocked onto the cold hard ground. Your assailant fell on top of you, and you soon locked eyes with him. It was as if time stood still for a moment. He was the most beautiful boy you’ve ever seen. His eyes were wide with concern, and for a moment, you swore you saw stars twinkling within them.

It took a second to register that this stranger was on top of you, in a compromising position no less. You’ve never been this close to a boy since...well it has been a while. Your legs were intertwined and his nose was only inches from yours.

“Oh my god, I’m so sorry! I didn’t see you until the last second,” the boy apologized as he scrambled to get off of you.

As he helped you up, you reassured him that you were fine. You laughed off the incident and took the boy by surprise. You had the most angelic laugh he’d ever heard. He stood awkwardly gazing at you, before you asked him if he was okay.

“I-I’m fine! I’m glad you’re okay. I apologize again for being so careless,” he bowed.

“I’m also at fault! I wasn’t paying attention either. So shame on both of us,” you smiled to show him you were joking, “Enjoy the rest of your day, don’t run into anyone else!”

And with that, you parted ways. You forgot about the stranger as the morning rush piled into the bakery.

Despite being located in a small town, your parent’s were nationally renowned bakers. The bakery was always busy. That was part of why you loved it so much, you were never bored. The regular customers were your favorite. Most of the townsfolk had been coming to the bakery since you were little.

“Is this banana bread new?” Mrs. Park, the local florist, asked.

“Technically, yes. It’s the exact same recipe but without the walnuts,” you replied.

“Perfect! I’m not too fond of walnuts but I adore your parents’ banana bread,” Mrs. Park beamed, handing you a loaf along with other goods she picked up.

“How’s Jimin?” you asked as you rang her up.

“Oh he’s doing well! He loves it out there in the big city. At first, I was terrified of letting him go. He’s just always been so passionate about dancing, I finally had to cave in. He recently auditioned to be part of some fancy dance crew, and he got in! Can you believe it?” Mrs. Park began to dote on her son.

“That’s amazing! I’m happy for him,” you smiled.

“You know, ____, Jimin is still single. You two would be perfect together--”

“Long distance relationships are hard, Mrs. Park,” your mother interrupted her, swooping in to save the day. Thank god. You wouldn’t have known how to react.

“She could always move out to the city to be with him!” Mrs. Park retorted, not picking up on the awkward situation she created.

“I could never leave the bakery,” you responded quickly.

“Ah, yes that’s right. You have such a good daughter, Mrs. _____. Jimin never took any interest in taking over the family business. I’m jealous of you!” Mrs. Park said to your mom.

After what seemed like an eternity, Mrs. Park finally left. You were fond of her, but she never knew when to stop talking. Jimin was a good friend of yours growing up. You never wanted to admit that you had a huge crush on him. You figured it wouldn’t have mattered anyway, since he was so fixated on moving out.

The morning rush had died down. You took this opportunity to restock and tidy things up before the afternoon rush. The store bell rang, indicating the arrival of another customer.

“Welcome in! I’ll be with you shortly,” you called out from behind the counter.

“No worries, thanks!” the customer yelled back.

Once finished, you popped up with a bright smile on your face. Your parents taught you to always greet the customers with a smile as soon as they walk in.

However, the customer wasn’t facing your direction. He was looking at the baked goods that aligned the opposite wall. You patiently waited for him to make his selection. He kept walking back and forth, eyeing all of the baked items. You left your station behind the counter and approached him.

“Can I help you with anything, sir?” you piped up behind him.

The man jumped back, startled.

“I’m sorry! I didn’t mean to scare you,” you apologized.

“It’s okay! I didn’t hear you at all. You must be some sort of ninja-- Oh it’s you!” the boy turned around to face you.

It was the gorgeous boy who ran into you earlier.

“Hello again! I guess it was my turn to frighten you,” you joked.

“That’s fair,” he nodded, “What’s the best thing here?”

“Mmm that’s hard for me to say, considering that I love them all. What kind of tastes and textures do you like?” your customer service persona kicked in.

“I like sweet things I guess? I like bananas too…” he trailed off.

“We don’t have any bananas in fruit form, but we do have killer banana bread,” you beamed.

“That sounds good, but I don’t really like nuts so--”

“There are no nuts in our new recipe! You must be lucky, this is the first day that we’ve started selling them. Want me to ring you up a loaf?” you interrupted him.

“Oh no nuts? Okay, I’ll try it,” he agreed quietly.

“Would you still like to get something sweet as well?”

“Yeah, if that’s okay,” he nodded timidly.

“Of course it’s okay! My personal favorite is our milk pudding bun. The pudding in the middle is pretty creamy plus the bread is unbelievably soft! If that’s not for you, then we have a classic chocolate bun filled with, surprise surprise, chocolate. We also have…” you led the boy around the entire bakery.

You were too focused on recommending various breads to notice him stealing glances at you that lingered longer than normal. He patiently let you talk his ear off about the goodies.

“I’ll go with the milk pudding bun,” he smiled shyly.

“That was the first one! You should’ve stopped me from rambling,” you huffed.

“I wanted to know my options. Plus you seemed pretty happy,” he added softly.

“Alright, let’s go check you out then,” you headed to the counter, “I haven’t seen you before. What brings you to our little town?” you attempted to make conversation.

“Mmm, to get away, I guess,” the boy said after a pause.

“Are you in some sort of trouble?” you leaned over the counter to whisper.

“Kind of,” he whispered back.

“Stay right here, I can call the police,” you frantically murmured as you whipped out your phone.

“No no! Not like that,” he couldn’t contain his laughter, “I’m a fine arts student. My main focus is photography, but lately I haven’t been able to capture anything worth printing,” he explained.

“Ohhh,” you said, feeling dumb, “Then why come to a town in the middle of nowhere? You won’t find much here.”

“To an untrained eye, maybe so. But to a professional, beauty can be found anywhere,” he said proudly.

“Then why can’t you find anything back home? And aren’t you still a student?” you questioned.

“You know, I was really hoping that you’d let me have that,” the boy deflated.

“Aw, I’m sorry! If you ever want to take photos of the beauty that is bread, you’re always welcome here,” you smiled.

“I might take you up on that offer,” he said as he grabbed the purchased goods, “What’s your name by the way?”

“____. Yours?”

“Jeon Jungkook.”

“I’ll see you around, Mr. Jeon Jungkook. Oh! And if you’d like a tour of the town, I’d be more than happy to show you around,” you suggested.

“That would be nice,” Jungkook pondered, “Where can I find you?”

“I’m here every day. I get off at 3pm,” you answered.

“Cool. I’ll drop by tomorrow, if that’s okay?”

“Sure! See you then!” you waved goodbye.

“Who was that?” your mother asked when the boy left.

“Some photography student that said he wanted to get away for some inspiration. I offered to give him a tour tomorrow after work,” you explained.

“Do you want me to come with you?” your dad offered.

“I’ll be fine on my own, thanks,” you quickly turned him down.

You spent the next morning frantically flip flopping between outfits. Should you go with a pretty top paired with a skirt? Or perhaps keep it casual with a t-shirt and jeans? Or should you go with a simple dress? You know you’re supposed to be a tour guide, but you still wanted to look somewhat presentable. You settled for the dress. It gave off a “cute but not trying too hard” type of vibe.

Time seemed to slowly drag on as you waited for Jungkook to return. You had already mapped out your route, making sure it was efficient (not like there’s much to see anyway). You wanted to surprise him with a picnic at the end of the tour. Hopefully it could help show off the natural beauty of the forests and meadows that surrounded the town. As the clock approached 3pm, you began to wonder if springing a surprise picnic on a stranger was odd. Oh god, what if it was? You hadn’t had much interaction with people your age once all your friends went off to live their own lives. Panic was starting to set in when the front bell chimed.

“Hey! I’m a little early, but I can wait around until you’re finished,” Jungkook greeted you. You noticed a fancy looking camera dangling around his chest.

“It’s all good! Business has been slow today, I’ve been bored,” you admitted.

“Oh I see--” Jungkook was cut off.

“Hi! I’m ____’s mom. Did you like the bread you bought yesterday?” your mom materialized out of nowhere with a pan of fresh bread in her hands.

“It was delicious! Better than anything I could get in the city,” Jungkook complimented.

“Why did you batch a new batch? No one has come in after 1pm,” you aggressively whispered to your mom.

“I got bored,” she pouted, “Here, have one! On the house, think of it as a welcoming present to our town,” she motioned for Jungkook to take a fresh loaf off the tray.

Jungkook’s face lit up at the offer as he thanked her for the snack. His smile lingered as he took a bite, savoring the taste.

“You must have some sort of good luck charm; you’re getting even more free food later,” you chuckled as you plopped a wicker basket onto the checkout counter.

“Sweet,” he beamed.

You let out a small sigh of relief. It didn’t seem like Jungkook was creeped out by the thought of eating with a stranger. With the basket in hand, you led Jungkook across the town. There truly wasn’t much to see. Your family’s bakery was in line with the rest of the town’s shops. You passed by the florist, the cafe, the grocery store, and the post office within the first 3 minutes just by walking down the street. You added in little personal stories with each business that you pointed out.

Jungkook paused by the flower shop, in awe of all the beautiful arrangements. His eyes scanned the outside displays, as if he was looking for something.

“Need something specific, dear?” Mrs. Park asked her potential customer.

“Do you have Tiger flowers?” he inquired.

“Tiger… No, but I can probably order some for you,” she offered.

“Ah, that’s alright. I’m sorry to bother you,” Jungkook apologized before rejoining you.

“Did you wanna take a picture of that specific flower?” you asked him as you strolled along the sidewalk.

“Yeah, it’s my birth flower,” he shyly nodded.

“Oh nice! I don’t know what my birth flower is, but yours sounds pretty. Ah, here is the town square. Over there is the courthouse/government building/boring stuff happens in there probably,” you said as you pointed out the building.

“This is cool,” Jungkook examined a decrepit well that stood in front of the courthouse.

“I guess. I always thought it would be better if they replaced it with a big pretty fountain or something,” you mentioned as you looked down into the dark abyss of the well.

Jungkook said nothing as he began taking pictures of the well from various angles. You watched him frown at each picture he took before he tried to take another.

“Maybe you could take a picture looking into the well? I mean, you’d probably have to stand on it to get a full shot and your feet will be in it but…” you suggested before realizing that you knew nothing about photography.

Jungkook immediately hopped onto the well, disregarding the loose pebbles that crumbled away under his weight. Pointing the camera directly down into the well, he snapped a couple of pictures. He didn’t bother hopping off of the well before scrolling through the pictures he just took. You caught yourself staring at him, admiring his features. His eyebrows were furrowed in concentration, his lips were pursed, and the wind was blowing his bangs over his forehead ever so slightly. He really was a handsome boy, though he seemed to be completely unaware of it.

“How’d it turn out?” you asked as he climbed down.

“Not bad actually. Better than the angles I took at first,” Jungkook smiled with approval, “I’ll show you after I touch them up.”

“I’m excited to see! Also, this basically concludes the tour because everything else is residential stuff. Unless you wanna take pictures of random people’s homes,” you joked.

“I’m good. Is this where we’re eating? I kinda skipped lunch,” Jungkook looked at the wicker basket in your hand.

“Nope! I’m gonna take you somewhere special. Are you okay with a bit of light hiking?”

“Sounds fun,” Jungkook grinned.

“Perfect! Now it’s your turn to lug this thing around,” you said as you handed him the deceptively heavy basket.

You took him to the outskirts of town, where nature was left untouched.

“Is this where all the cool kids have their picnics?” Jungkook asked as you led him down an old trail.

“All the cool kids left this town a while ago, so I can’t speak on their behalf. However, this is where I like to have my picnics so take that in whatever way you please,” you responded.

It was a sunny day on the verge of being too hot, but the densely wooded forest provided enough shade to make it comfortable. Your parents used to take you on walks in these woods when you (and they) were younger. Of course, now the hilly paths and loose soil would only wreak havoc on your parents’ old knees. You’ve grown accustomed to exploring on your own. Bringing Jungkook along was a pleasant change.

“You okay with eating here?” you suddenly stopped, pointing over to a field just off the trail.

“I’ll eat anywhere, I’m starving,” Jungkook quickly nodded.

“I’m fully aware of that; I could barely hear the birds chirping over the sounds of your stomach growling,” you teased.

An old tree that was large enough to cover up the entire picnic blanket with shade proved to be the ideal spot. Jungkook set down the wicker basket that you assigned to him earlier, eagerly waiting for you to finally open it.

“On the menu today we have fruits as an appetizer, ham and cheese sandwiches in homemade croissants as the main course, and last but not least, chocolate buns for dessert,” you proudly showcased each item.

“I never knew bread could taste so heavenly until I went to your bakery. I’m happy I walked in,” Jungkook praised as he wolfed down his sandwich.

“It’s not my bakery, it’s my parents’ bakery,” you corrected him as you ate the fruit.

“Don’t you work in it nearly every day? I don’t see how it’s not your bakery too,” Jungkook insisted.

“I’m not the one running the business,” you argued.

“You seem to put in the same amount as work as them. Instead of baking, you’re handling all of the customers. That’s gotta count for something, right?” Jungkook persisted.

“Fine, I guess you could say it’s a family bakery. Happy?” you huffed, clearly annoyed.

“Hey, I wasn’t trying to make you angry. I’m sorry if I overstepped,” Jungkook apologized, putting his sandwich down, “I wanted to let you know how much I love your family’s bread, that’s all.”

“No, it’s fine. I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have snapped at you. It’s just…” your trailed off as you gazed at the blue sky.

“I don’t want to pry, but I’m happy to sit here and listen,” Jungkook offered.

“I don’t want to scare you away by dumping my personal issues on you,” you tried to lighten the mood.

“I don’t think you could do that, ____,” Jungkook assured you.

Your eyes widened ever so slightly since he caught you off guard with his sincerity, but soon you gave him a soft smile.

“Fine, since we’re just sitting here anyway,” you caved as you picked up your sandwich, “I wish I wasn’t here anymore. Don’t get me wrong, I love my parents and I love the bakery. I just wish I got to go to a big city somewhere and attend a real university. I don’t know what I’d study, I just know that I thought my life would be different by now,” you turn away from him to hide your watery eyes.

“It’s not all that great,” Jungkook responded after a short pause, “I came from a small town too. The only difference was that it was along a beach, not by a forest. Wait, the location doesn’t matter,” he quietly scolded himself, “What I’m trying to say is that I did get away from my hometown. I was so excited to finally be a city kid. I didn’t realize how overwhelming it would be. Now look at me. I’m a senior in college with no direction in life. That’s what I get for choosing a career with no job security,” he chuckled as he looked down at the camera around his neck.

“But are you doing what you love?” you quietly asked.

“I think so. Are you?” he asked back.

“I think so,” you sighed, finally turning to look at him.

“I could always take you back to the city with me,” Jungkook flashed you a big bunny smile.

“Don’t joke with me like that. I hate getting my hopes up,” you playfully punch him in the arm.

“I’m not joking!” he yelped in surprise.

The conversation turned into a more cheerful one. You both spoke about your dreams, both childhood and present day. It was fun talking with Jungkook as you both watched the clouds roll by without a care in the world.

“Maybe you could get some pretty shots of some wildlife while we’re out here,” you recommended when the conversation came to a pause.

“Do you want to model for me?” Jungkook asked.

“Huh?” his sudden proposal surprised you.

“It’s completely okay if you don’t want to! Actually, just forget I said anything,” Jungkook looked down at the camera in his hands in a futile attempt to hide his flushed cheeks.

“Just tell me how to pose,” you smiled, already getting up.

“Uh, just act natural,” he said awkwardly as you leaned against the thick tree trunk.

At first, you made some silly poses that made Jungkook laugh. To be honest, you only did that because you really didn’t know how to pose next to the tree while making it look natural. Forcing a smile, you attempted to lean on the tree like as if it were another person.

“You don’t have to fake a smile,” Jungkook called from behind the camera.

“I don’t know what to do!” you called back.

“Act natural!”

“How do I do that?”

“Naturally!”

His response rewarded him a sarcastic eye roll, followed by a burst of laughter. Jungkook furiously clicked his camera as you laughed even harder. He praised you for ‘being in your natural state’ as he took shots from ridiculous angles. He gave you a thumbs up after he was satisfied with the impromptu photoshoot.

“Is laughing until I can’t breathe just me being in my natural state?” you asked playfully as you sat back down on the picnic blanket.

“It was authentic, so I would say so. I wish I could capture sound too, your laugh is so cute,” Jungkook said nonchalantly as he scrolled through the photos.

His eyes widened as soon as he realized what he said. He opened his mouth to try and take it back, or at least cover it up. He looked over at you shyly, only to see that you were digging out dessert from the basket. He let out a sigh of relief. Thankfully, you didn’t hear him.

“How were the pictures?” you asked, scooting to sit beside him after handing him the dessert.

“See for yourself,” he proudly showed you.

You were amazed by his talent. Even without editing, the photos looked like they were ready to be submitted into a contest. Everything looked so perfect. Your smile was genuine, the lighting was optimal, and your hair looked surprisingly good. You applauded him for his talent, to which he bashfully denied by saying he was still such an amatuer. You both finally dug into the desserts.

“These chocolate buns were amazing,” Jungkook licked his lips after he finished it.

“They’re my personal favorite! They’re also the best things that I can make on my own,” you winked at him as you finished yours.

“You made these?” Jungkook’s doe eyes filled with awe.

“Yep! Don’t act so surprised,” you pouted.

“Sorry, it’s just that you told me your parents bake everything. These were really good! Probably the best things I’ve had since--oh wait. You have a little something,” Jungkook leaned forward to wipe the corner of your mouth with his thumb.

You both froze for a second, in shock of this intimate gesture. Jungkook’s mouth opened to apologize, but you stopped him before he had the chance. Without thinking about it, you put your mouth around his thumb. You sucked on it for a second before you snapped back to reality. You started apologizing profusely the instant his thumb left your mouth.

“It’s okay! I shouldn’t have touched you in the first place,” Jungkook shied away from you, refusing to look you in the eyes.

“I don’t know what came over me,” you apologized as you grabbed his hand.

Jungkook looked at you with an embarrassed expression the moment you held his hand in yours. At first you didn’t realize why he was so embarrassed, you were the one sucking his thumb. But then, you noticed Jungkook sheepishly resting his other hand in his lap.

“Jungkook,” you said sweetly.

“Yes?” he answered, his eyes averting yours once more.

“Do you want me to do it again?”

“Huh?” he looked back at you with disbelief.

You made a bold move as you moved to straddle his lap, each leg settling beside his waist. You brought his hand up to your mouth and batted your eyes innocently.

“Like this,” you say before licking his pointer finger.

Jungkook gulped while slowly nodding his head, giving you permission to continue. His eyes stayed glued on you as you wrapped your lips around his finger. You dragged your flattened out tongue from the base to the tip. You then reversed this motion, but instead only using the tip of your tongue. You began to work on his middle finger as well. It was hard to fit his long fingers in your mouth, but you’re no quitter. Your tongue weaved between his fingers, adequately coating them with your saliva.

Jungkook’s breaths quickened the longer you went on. You felt a bulge grow between your thighs as you straddled him. Perhaps wearing a dress was a great idea after all. Your hips began to move on their own as you slowly grinded on Jungkook.

“____…” Jungkook moaned quietly when you daringly took three fingers into your mouth.

Rubbing your clothed pussy against his hard crotch spurred you on even more. Drool was dribbling down Jungkook’s arm and your chin, but neither of you cared. It just made you look more erotic to him. His other hand was on your hip to help you maintain a rhythm. You opened your eyes to make contact with his as you suckled his fingers. That’s all it took to make him come undone.

He quickly pushed you off of him as he cried out. You were both too shocked to say anything for a few seconds. Jungkook seemed too embarrassed to look you in the eyes again, his cheeks bright red.

“Jungkook, I--” you started to apologize.

“You probably think I’m pretty lame huh? Cumming in my pants like some sort of middle schooler,” he looked down in defeat.

“What? No, of course not!” you disagreed.

“Don’t lie,” Jungkook refused to believe you.

“Jungkook, that was honestly the hottest thing I’ve ever done. What we just did was hotter than when I was actually having sex,” you tried to cheer him up.

“You’re not lying?” Jungkook finally looked up at you with sad puppy dog eyes.

“I swear I’m not. I could help you clean it up, if you’d like,” you offered.

“I think that would make me feel worse. Just hand me some napkins and I’ll go take care of it myself,” he declined.

You packed everything up while you waited for Jungkook to return. He discreetly threw away the ball of used napkins into the designated trash bag, praying to god that you weren’t looking.

The walk back was quiet and awkward. Neither of you knew what to say. You were horrified with how you acted; you’ve never been so bold before. Jungkook was ashamed of cumming before he had the chance to do anything to you. He felt so pathetic.

“I’m sorry for making you so uncomfortable, Jungkook,” you finally apologized.

“Are you kidding? You think I would cum that fast if I was uncomfortable?” Jungkook looked at you with incredulity, “I’m the one who should be sorry. I’m disgusting and came in my pants while you did all the hard work.”

“You’re not disgusting at all, Jungkook. I enjoyed it too. I can’t remember the last time I was that horny,” you laughed.

All the tension in the air had disappeared. Jungkook bounced back to being his cheery self. The conversation went back to normal as you brought him back to the bakery. You hugged him goodbye and were about to leave when he caught your hand.

“Thank you so much for the tour. I know we’ve only known each other for a day but... would you like to go on a date with me?” Jungkook asked with a hopeful look in his eyes.

“No,” you said firmly, watching his shoulders fall, “I’d love to go on a date with you,” you smirked.

“You jerk!” Jungkook gasped.

You couldn’t help it, he was too easy to tease. After working out the details, it was decided that he would come pick you up on Friday night.

Jungkook took you to basically the only restaurant in town (that wasn’t the cafe). It was a family run Italian eatery, and it took Jungkook by surprise.

“Is everyone in this place a master chef or something? This is delicious!” he praised as he ate his pasta.

“I guess it’s the authenticity of family recipes? You probably eat at more chain restaurants while you’re in the city,” you shrugged as you twirled noodles around your fork.

The date went on pleasantly. Jungkook wanted to know as much about you as you did him. The conversations you had were lively and fun; there was never a dull moment with him. Something about him just automatically clicked with you.

“What’s your favorite thing to photograph?” you asked.

“I like taking pictures of landscapes and buildings. That’s why I was super excited about going to a university in the city. It’s a lot easier than taking pictures of people! Unfortunately, that’s where the money is right now,” he explained.

“You don’t like taking pictures of people?”

“Not really, no,” he answered bluntly.

“Then why did you ask me to model for you?” you were genuinely curious.

Jungkook froze in his seat. He took a long sip of his drink before answering you.

“For practice, I suppose,” he said softly.

“I’m happy I was able to help then,” you smiled, thinking nothing of it.

Jungkook seemed grateful that you didn’t press for more details, and was soon coaxed out of his shy shell once the topic of anime came around. You were happy that he took you out on a proper date, you hadn’t been on one in so long.

He walked you back under the pale moonlight. You were admiring the twinkling stars when you realized that Jungkook hadn’t said anything in a while. His hand awkwardly brushed against yours when you first left the restaurant, but you didn’t think much of it. Jungkook seemed to be thinking hard about something as he walked alongside you. You were going to say something when the back of his hand brushed against yours again. He instantly pulled away and uttered a small “sorry”.

“What’s wrong, Jungkook?” you were worried now, you thought the date went well.

“Nothing…,” his voice trailed off as he looked away.

You interlocked his pinky with yours without a word. Jungkook looked over at you with surprise, but said nothing. He admonished himself for not committing to hold your hand, but he was happy with this too. In fact, he thought it was cuter than actual hand holding.

You arrived in front of your house. Bidding Jungkook goodnight, you went in for a hug. Jungkook also went in for a hug, but he leaned the same way you did. In a quick bumble, your lips grazed the corner of Jungkook’s, causing you to jump back. You stood in Jungkook’s arms, looking away in embarrassment. He brought up one of his hands to cup your cheek, forcing you to look back at him. His eyes sparkled under the moonlight as he gazed into yours.

Slowly, you found yourself leaning forward. Jungkook met you in the middle, his lips finding yours. It was a tender kiss, sweet and soft. You broke it off after a couple seconds to giggle, but Jungkook pulled you back into it. He kissed you gently, yet with so much passion. You reciprocated his affection as your fingers intertwined with his hair, deepening the kiss.

He finally pulled away, smiling back at you. To be honest, you wish it lasted longer. However, you knew you would have had a hard time controlling yourself if it did.

“Thank you for dinner,” you thanked him with a soft voice.

“Of course, thank you for accompanying me,” he bowed like a gentleman and kissed your hand. You couldn’t help but laugh at his gesture.

“Too much?” he tilted his head.

“Don’t change a thing,” you continued to laugh.

All sorts of thoughts about Jungkook swam in your mind as you fell asleep that night.

Jungkook soon began to hangout with you every day. When he wasn’t out trying to take pictures, he would be in the bakery keeping you company. Your parents teased him, saying that he better buy something or else they’d kick him out, but they never did. In fact, your mom would always sneak him some freshly baked goods.

After work, you and Jungkook would spend even more time together. It didn’t matter if you guys were exploring nature, cooling off in the stream, or just watching movies; you enjoyed it all. It was nice having someone to talk to for a change. Jungkook never asked to make plans with you, he just assumed you guys would hangout the next day when he said “see ya tomorrow!”

You knew you had a crush on Jungkook, but you didn’t know how he felt. Yes, he took you on a date. Yes, you’ve kissed. Yes, you made in cum in his pants (not necessarily in that order). You were waiting on him to ask you to be his girlfriend. You didn’t want to pressure him, especially when you knew that he’d be going back to school in the fall.

One day, much to your chagrin, Jungkook was helping you with inventory. You argued that he shouldn’t work since he wasn’t getting paid, but he smiled and replied that spending time with you was all the payment he needed. You were too flustered to argue after that.

“Great, everything has been accounted for! Can you help me put this box back up there?” you asked him, nodding your head at a particularly high shelf that was out of your reach. You grabbed a step stool for him to make it easier.

Jungkook lifted up the heavy box of supplies with ease, and placed it back on the shelf. He looked down at you and smiled.

“What?” you cocked your head.

He said nothing as he leaned down and kissed your forehead, “You just look cute from up here.”

You looked away as you blushed, not knowing what to say. Jungkook laughed as he got down from the step stool. He teased you about it for the rest of the day.

Days flew by as it was getting closer and closer to Jungkook’s departure. You let Jungkook decide on what to do during his last day there. He picked you up at the bakery after your shift. He wanted to take one last stroll with you around town before he had to leave. You were about to hug him goodbye when he invited you over, saying that he had a box of popcorn he needed help finishing.

After watching a couple movies, Jungkook had his arms around you as you rested your head on his shoulder. Cuddling had become a norm between you two. Jungkook suddenly nudged your side, causing you to shriek.

“Sorry, just making sure you were still awake,” he giggled.

“I was, but now I definitely am,” you said as you returned the favor and tickled his sides.

It soon became a war of tickling as laughter erupted from both of you. Jungkook was just as ticklish as you were, making it a deadly battle. Before you knew it, you were straddling Jungkook, gripping both of his wrists in your hands. You both stared at each other as the laughter subsided, now replaced with heavy breathing.

“You could easily knock me over, you know,” you said as you lowered your nose to his.

“What if I don’t want to?” he whispered back.

He moved his head upwards to kiss you, catching you by surprise. You kissed him back, pushing him back down. You lowered your hips to rest on his hardened crotch. You let go of his wrists to help him take off his shirt before removing your own.

Once your lips connected again, Jungkook’s hands moved freely over your body, gently caressing your breasts. He treated you so tenderly, it made you even hornier. Your hands reached down to unzip his pants.

“Is this okay?” you paused to ask.

“Only if you take off your pants too,” he answered with a smirk.

Soon enough you were both down to just your underwear. You palmed Jungkook’s erection, curious to see it. It already felt huge in comparison to your hands.

“I want to fuck you, _____,” Jungkook groaned as you kissed his neck.

“I’m glad we want the same thing. Where do you want me?” you cooed.

“Like this is fine,” he quickly answered.

He helped you take off his underwear, revealing his massive dick. Your pussy clenched at the sight of it. You wriggled out of your panties and positioned yourself on top of him.

“Ready?” you asked.

Jungkook just nodded, his eyes wide with anticipation. He gulped as he watched you slowly lower yourself onto him, taking in each inch slowly. You moaned as he went deeper and deeper in you. You hadn’t had sex in a long time (and admittedly it wasn’t very good). Now, you were sopping wet and Jungkook was filling you up perfectly. Once you reached the base of his dick, you took your time going back up.

From the look on Jungkook’s face, he was in pure bliss. You continued to tease him as you fucked him slowly. You transitioned from taking his entire length to just swiveling around his tip, making him moan from the overstimulation. Jungkook dug his nails into your lower back, begging you to take all of him in again.

You leaned back over and peppered kisses along his chest and up his neck. Jungkook whimpered at the sensation, his breathing grew uneven. You giggled at him as you suckled on his neck, leaving wet kisses in your wake. Once you had enough of teasing him, you slammed back down onto him, and both your moans filled the room. Your hips began to move faster as you bounced on top of him. Jungkook’s grip on you tightened.

“I--I’m gonna cum,” he panicked.

You immediately hopped off, hoping to edge him. He whimpered at the loss of your warm pussy, but your plan seemed to work. His eyes begged you to get back on top.

“Now it’s your turn to fuck me,” you demanded as you laid down on your back.

Jungkook complied and positioned himself between your legs. He bent over to kiss you while he pushed his cock back inside of you. He took his time at first, but then tried to pick up the pace. His movements were awkward and stiff, and his pelvis hit your hips in a way that you knew they were going to bruise later.

“Jungkook, just relax,” you commanded.

Jungkook steadied his breathing and took your advice. He was finally able to find a rhythm and stuck to it. Luckily, it was the perfect rhythm for you as he continuously grazed your g-spot. Jungkook moaned with every stroke as your warm insides squeezed around him. You wrapped your legs around him, bringing him even closer. You looked up at him to see that the usual sweet star filled doe eyes of his had switched to a version of pure ecstasy as he gazed down at you with blown out pupils. The change was a little jarring, but also incredibly sexy when you realized the potential duality Jungkook could have. You pulled him into a deep kiss, tongues exploring foreign regions as he pounded into you.

“I’m gonna--,” his breath hitched.

“Cum on me baby,” you panted as you furiously rubbed your clit, desperate to cum with him.

With perfect timing, Jungkook got to feel you cum around him for a few seconds before he had to pull out and finish all over your chest. He gave you a quick peck on the cheek before scurrying off to find something to clean you with.

He rested his head on your chest as you held him close. You were falling asleep when he said something.

“Sorry, what did you say?” you asked him since you barely heard him.

“I am, well I guess was, a virgin,” Jungkook admitted.

“Oh,” you tried to mask your surprise.

“I didn’t wanna say anything. I mean, how lame is it that I’m a college senior and have never gotten laid. You’re probably surprised huh? I’m not lying, I swear.”

“I am surprised, but only because you seem like ladies would be all over you. You’re so handsome, funny, charming--”

“Yes yes keep going,” Jungkook joked.

“--and a genuinely good guy. Plus I feel like being a photographer would help you meet a lot of pretty girls,” you reasoned.

“While all of that is true, the real reason is pretty embarrassing. I’m...I’ve always been kinda scared of girls,” Jungkook sighed as you tried to suppress your laughter, “I’m not kidding! I always get so nervous around girls, I could never actually talk to them.”

“So am I not a girl in your eyes?” you teased.

“You’re a woman,” he answered cockily.

“Shut up! I hope your first time was enjoyable. Thanks for entrusting me with your v card,” you laughed.

You both continued joking and laughing the night away until you fell asleep in each other’s arms. While that night was enjoyable, it made Jungkook’s absence hurt more.

Life had sunk back into the same mundane routines once Jungkook left. Of course, he still kept in touch. He would text and video call you as often as he could. He’d send you pictures of his newest shooting locations, and you’d always be the first person he’d show his finished products.

You loved witnessing Jungkook’s passion grow, he had a new spark in him that wasn’t there before. With your encouragement as an extra shove, he applied to his dream job. He explained to you that it was with an agency that would send him to a random country where he’d work with a participating magazine company. You secretly envied him for even having the possibility of exploring the world.

Days and weeks started to blend together. Your parents insisted on having you help out more in the kitchen, presumably to get your mind off of Jungkook.

It was a weird fling you had with him. However, it also didn’t seem like a fling. Most flings didn’t still keep in touch in a long distance “friendship”, or whatever it was you had. You were never officially dating, but it sure as hell felt that way. You cursed yourself for waiting for him to ask, you should’ve just done it yourself. Of course, part of you felt like you’d just hold him back if you guys actually ended up dating.

These thoughts constantly swarmed your mind. Ironically, the only time you weren’t thinking about your dilemma was when you were chatting with Jungkook. The end of the semester was quickly approaching, and you could tell that he was getting antsy. He hadn’t gotten offers from anywhere that he applied. You could do nothing but give him hope but assuring him that someone somewhere will hire him.

You watched snow fall outside when you got a call.

“I GOT IN!!!” Jungkook exclaimed.

“What?! Where?!” you jumped up in excitement.

“My top choice! The one where they send me to another country! Guess where I’m going,” he sing songed.

“Umm… Italy?”

“Close! I’m going to España,” he said with a spanish accent.

“That’s amazing, Jungkook. I’m so proud of you! I knew you could do it. When do you leave?” you asked.

“In a week. God, I’m so excited! Oh, my parents are calling. I’ll talk to you later?”

“Of course. Congrats again,” you cheered before he hung up.

Before you knew it, you were crying. You were honestly happy for Jungkook, but reality hit you. You were never going to be able to tell him that you loved him. You were never going to be with him, not while you’re stuck in this town. It sucked, but you had no choice but to accept that.

Two days had passed since that phone call. Jungkook was probably busy packing and working out minor details, so you stayed out of his way. You figured things would probably be like this from now on. Why would he bother talking to a small town girl while he’s out exploring the world?

You were restocking the milk puddings rolls when the front bell chimed.

“I’ll be with you in a second,” you called out.

“No worries, I’ll wait all day if I have to,” a familiar voice responded.

You dropped the rolls as you turned around with lightning fast speed. Jungkook stood at the doorway, beaming a big bunny smile at you. You ran to him, embracing him in a tight hug. He wrapped his arms around you and kissed your forehead.

“Surprise,” he smiled.

“What are you doing here?” you asked as you wiped tears from your eyes.

“I needed to see you. I was planning on coming back and surprising you even before I left. You didn’t think I’d leave without saying goodbye, did you?” he ruffled your hair, “Oh, and those tiger flowers are beautiful,” he nodded over to the flower bouquet on the checkout counter.

“I got them because they reminded me of you,” you blushed, your ears turning red.

“Did I hear Jungkook?” you mom poked her head out of the kitchen, “Oh my goodness! Honey look! Jungkook is back!” she called your dad.

Your parents came out to greet him. He explained everything to them, and they congratulated him.

“How long will you be here? Aren’t you leaving soon?” your dad inquired.

“I leave tomorrow night. I wish I could stay longer,” Jungkook answered solemnly.

“____ suddenly doesn’t have to work until after you’ve left,” your mom smiled fondly at you.

Your eyes lit up as you kissed your parents on the cheek to thank them. After grabbing your jacket, you took Jungkook’s hand and dragged him out. You both aimlessly walked around the town as you chatted. He went more in depth with the details of his job. He was most excited about capturing photos of the city. After looking up some pictures of the architecture, he immediately fell in love with Madrid.

Jungkook invited you over to watch some of the short films he worked on over the past semester. While they were just videos of his friends with no plot, you could feel their friendship seeping through the screen. The way Jungkook played with music and colors really enhanced the already well shot video. You felt at peace sitting beside Jungkook on his bed as he showed you all his past projects. Part of you wished that this moment would never end.

“You’ve made me a better person, you know,” Jungkook said out of nowhere, “I’m more talkative around my friends, and I’ve gotten more comfortable with being myself.”

“I didn’t do anything, that’s all you,” you smiled as you poked his chest.

“You definitely helped,” he ran his fingers through your hair, “I love you, ____.”

Your heart skipped a beat.

“I love you too. I thought I’d never get to say that,” you said with a sigh of relief.

He looked into your eyes before leaning forward slowly. You’ve been waiting for this moment for so long, you practically pounced on him. You kissed him passionately, as if to show him how much you missed him. Clothes were thrown in every direction leading to bare skin being exposed.

Jungkook’s soft hands roamed across your body as if he were trying to memorize your every curve. His touch was a bit rougher than the last time, his lips crashed against yours as he pinched your nipples. You couldn’t tell if it was desperation, carnal lust, or just a new side of Jungkook, but you didn’t mind in the slightest. His erection pressed against your thigh as your hands tangled themselves in his dark hair. You reached down to grab his cock, gripping from the base and slowly dragging your hand to the tip and then back down. He shuddered at the sensation, moaning into your mouth.

“Should I get on top?” you batted your eyes.

“Nope, I have a better idea,” Jungkook growled as he flipped you over onto your knees, “Can I fuck you like this?”

“Fuck me however you want,” you answered gleefully.

Jungkook rammed into you without hesitation. He firmly gripped your hips to keep you in place as he thrusted into you. His dick sent waves of ecstasy as he crashed into you. He surprised you when he reached his hand around you to play with your clit, causing you to squirm under him.

“Be a good girl and stay still,” he ordered.

His newfound dominance turned you on. He was no longer the baby boy that followed your every move, although you were sure that side of him was still there somewhere. You got lost in pleasure and didn’t realize how far gone you were till you felt liquid dripping down your inner thighs.

“You’re so fucking wet baby. All this for me?” Jungkook panted as he continued snapping his hips into you.

“Mhm, of course. Only for you,” you managed to moan out between thrusts.

“That’s my good girl. Get up,” he demanded as he hopped off the bed.

You obeyed, curious as to what he was going to do. As soon as you got off the bed, he spun you around and pushed your chest back over the covers. He slipped back into you with ease, groaning as your slick juices coated his cock. This new position enabled Jungkook to directly hit your g-spot with each thrust. Again, his hand wrapped around your waist to find your clit. His other hand found purchase on your neck, slightly choking you. The overstimulation had you crying out in bliss that you had never experienced before.

You were practically gushing now as your wetness ran down your legs and sprayed onto Jungkook’s thighs with each strong impact. Jungkook lifted up one of your legs onto the bed, spreading your pussy.

“Now touch yourself for me,” Jungkook directed.

He didn’t have to tell you twice. Your legs started to shake as you played with your clit at the perfect pace while Jungkook drilled into you. You were sure that you had already came numerous times by this point, but you could feel the grand finale soon approaching.

“Jungkook I--” you didn’t get a chance to finish your sentence as you climaxed onto his dick. He was infatuated with the way you looked from behind, and he couldn’t get enough of it. He pushed you back onto the bed with your legs still hanging from the edge. He reinserted himself while you laid there, completely delusional from the pounding you had been receiving.

“You’re such a sexy woman,” he moaned as he anchored the weight of his arms onto your shoulders.

He continued his torment downwards. Your bountiful cheeks bounced back and forth while he repeatedly rammed into your g-spot causing you to release more of the juices his massive cock craved.

He slowed his pace but still kept going to help you ride out your high for as long as possible. The sensation of you cumming on him was enough to bring him right to the brink of no return.

“Can I cum on you?” he pleaded in a tone all too familiar to you.

“Please do,” you nodded.

“God, you’re so sexy,” he said as he gave you a couple more hard thrusts before pulling out and coating your ass with white strings.

Jungkook held you in his arms after wiping you down with a towel, both of your chests heaving in sync. You both managed to work up a sweat, but Jungkook still smelled amazing. He played with your hair as your eyelids started to get heavy.

“_____,” he whispered softly.

“Yes, Jungkook?” you replied with your eyes still closed.

“Come with me.”

“What?” your eyes shot open.

“Come with me to Spain. I know it sounds crazy, but I don’t care. You’ll finally get the adventure you’ve always wanted, and we’ll do it together,” he kissed your forehead.

His unexpected proposition had you overwhelmed. You were speechless. You would go with him in a heartbeat. It wouldn’t matter where you’d go, as long as you were with him.

“Jungkook...you know I can’t do that,” you fought back tears, nuzzling yourself further into his chest.

“I wanted to ask your parents as soon as I arrived but you rushed me out too quickly and--”

“I can’t leave them, you know that,” silent tears rolled down your cheeks.

“I think they’d understand. Plus, you’ve said that they’ve tried to convince you to go to college,” Jungkook was getting desperate, he thought you’d agree on the spot.

“They need my help now more than ever. My parents are getting old. As much as I want to leave this place, I can’t. I’m going to be stuck here forever. I’m so sorry, Jungkook,” you wept.

“It’s okay, ___. We can ask them tomorrow, how does that sound?” he rubbed your back.

“No, I can’t do that to them. You know they’ll say yes. I have to stay,” you sniffled.

“You’re a great daughter. I can’t force you to come with me. I’ll miss you. I don’t know how long I’ll be gone,” Jungkook’s voice started to falter.

“Don’t worry about me. Go live out your life. Eat great food. Take beautiful pictures. Meet pretty girls,” you tried to lighten the mood.

“You think I want to meet pretty girls? Why would I do that when I have you,” he hugged you tightly.

“We aren’t even dating, Jungkook. I don’t want to hinder you more than I already have,” you blurted.

“I...I know we aren’t dating. Not officially. But that’s just a stupid label. I want to be with you,” Jungkook’s voice softened to hide his pain.

“Maybe this was a bad idea,” you said as you got up.

Jungkook immediately pulled you back into him. Your nose brushed against his wet cheek, causing you to freeze up when you realized that he had also been crying.

“Please stay with me. At least just for tonight,” he pleaded.

“Alright. I can do that,” you softly kiss him.

You woke up the next morning with your head on Jungkook’s chest. Jungkook looked adorable while he was asleep, with his mouth agape and his hair falling messily over his forehead. You tried to inch away, but he just pulled you closer, making it impossible to escape.

He woke up with a yawn a couple minutes later. He smiled down at you before ruffling your hair.

“Jungkook, I’m sorry about last night. I--”

“Let’s not talk about it. This is my last day with you for god knows how long. Let’s just enjoy ourselves, okay?” he interrupted you.

It had been three years since that spring when you met Jungkook. You sometimes reminisce about the times you had with Jeon Jungkook. It honestly felt like a dream. Communication with him slowly faded away, and now the only conversations you had with him were one message long during birthdays and holidays. You kept up with him more through Instagram. He regularly uploaded his beautiful pictures, and you could tell that his talent only grew. He had a knack for making dull buildings and streets come to life.

Your parents planned to retire soon, leaving you to tend to the bakery by yourself. They mainly managed the front-of-house work during the busy hours now. Their goal was to finally sell the bakery, but you protested against it. As much as you wanted to be rid of the chains that tied you down, you were scared. You didn’t know what you would do if the bakery was suddenly gone. It was all you’ve ever known.

Ever since your parents announced their retirement plans, you started to dabble in pastry making. They were impressed with your skills, and your creations got added to the menu. Word spread that the already famous bakery was now carrying delicious pastries, and business soared.

You were busy decorating your latest desserts when your mother came into the kitchen.

“Your father and I have to go run a quick errand, we’ll be back soon!” she said before giving you time to protest. You grumbled to yourself as you placed strawberries on your cakes, praying that no one would come in.

“Hello? Anyone here? The sign says open,” someone called from the front.

‘God dammit’, you thought before putting on a fake customer service smile.

“Welcome to--” you stopped in your tracks.

Jungkook was standing in the middle of your bakery, looking even more handsome than you had remembered him. His face lit up as soon as he saw you. You couldn’t help yourself as you ran towards him, colliding into him with a forceful hug.

“I hear you sell desserts now,” he grinned.

“Jungkook! What are you doing here? Your hair, it’s so long! And...do you have tattoos now?!” you were in shock.

“Do I look more artsy now?” he laughed, “I came to see you. I wanted to try your desserts too, of course. No one would believe me when I said nothing can compare to your family’s bakery. Oh, I have a present for you.”

You became giddy with excitement as Jungkook brought out a brown paper bag and handed it to you. You pulled out prints of a beautiful girl standing in a forest. Wait...it looked familiar…

“Is this me?” you asked as your mouth hung open.

“Yeah, these are the pictures from when you took me on that picnic. Would you believe me if I said I barely had to touch anything up? They were already nearly perfect,” Jungkook said proudly.

“It’s because you’re a talented photographer,” you smiled.

“That, and because I had the perfect model. How could I not ask the most beautiful girl I’ve ever seen to model for me?” he said as he tucked your hair behind your ear.

“So I wasn’t just practice?” you recalled asking him about it all those years ago.

“I was so nervous back then, I couldn’t bring myself to tell you the truth,” he laughed, “I’m much more open now.”

You promptly switched the ‘OPEN’ sign to ‘CLOSED’ and sat Jungkook down. You brought out one of your fresh strawberry cakes, eager to hear his opinion. His face contorted with pleasure as he took the first bite. He complimented the flavors and textures, saying that everything tasted like perfect harmony. You laughed together as he shared stories of his time abroad. He intently listened while you opened up about the struggles of the bakery.

“Anyway, that’s enough complaining for now. I’m happy you’re back! How long are you staying for this time?” you tilted your head.

“Depends,” Jungkook answered as he gazed out the window. He looked back at you with a serious expression. He quickly grabbed your hand and pulled you close, bringing your face just inches away from his.

“Do you still want to explore the world?” he asked.

“Of course, that’ll never change. But...you know I can’t,” you answered somberly.

“After everything you just told me, you still think you have to stay here?” Jungkook raised an eyebrow, “My next gig is going to be in France. Come with me this time, _____.”

You stared at him with a stunned expression. You thought he had forgotten about you. Now here he is, asking you to run away with him again.

“Why did you lose touch? I thought you had moved on. I made peace with that. God, it hurt like hell, but I came to terms with it. And now we’re doing this again,” your voice cracked as tears welled in your eyes.

“Honestly, it hurt me too much. I couldn’t bear talking to you every day or video chatting you, without knowing when I’d see you next. I never stopped thinking about you. I tried. I tried to forget...but no one could ever come close to you,” Jungkook cupped your cheek in his palm, “There’s a really good patissiere academy close to where I’ll be working. You could go there and sharpen your skills! Then maybe one day open up a bakery of your own...if you wanted.”

“But what about my parents--”

“Stop using us as an excuse to hold yourself back,” your mom scolded you as she entered the bakery.

“Did you like your surprise?” your dad winked.

“You knew?” you were bewildered.

“Jungkook contacted us a while back, asking if we thought his plan could ever be a possibility. I figured you were still head over heels for him since you never dated anyone else,” your mom shrugged.

“If you want to go, go. Don’t worry about us. We can sell the bakery, and finally retire,” your dad said.

“You have your parents’ blessing, ____. This decision is entirely up to you. What’s it gonna be? Will you come with me to France?” Jungkook asked again.

“I..,” you looked at your parents before your eyes wandered back to Jungkook, “Yes. I’d love to,” tears of joy rolled down your cheeks.

Jungkook got up and embraced you in a tight hug before he whispered, “I’ve missed you so much,” in your ear.

“Well, we better start packing,” Jungkook turned to your parents.

“Packing? Already?” your eyes widened.

“We leave by the end of the week!” Jungkook gleefully took your hand and dashed out of the store.

Jungkook dragged you through the town up to your house. You couldn’t help but smile as you watched his long hair bounce around while you ran. You could’ve sworn that sometimes they looked like bunny ears.

He was definitely Jungkook, but he seemed like the upgraded version of the shy boy you once knew. He had a new confident aura around him, and he seemed more manly than boyish now. Everything was happening so quickly, but you were nothing but excited for the adventures to come.

As long as Jungkook was by your side, you were ready to take on the world.

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