#former England captain

[nfllivescores]

Root & Brook hit centuries as England near 500

Root & Brook In a spectacular display of batting prowess, Joe Root and Harry Brook both scored centuries to propel England towards a near 500 total on Day 2 of the ongoing Test match against [opponent] at [venue]. Their partnership, which showcased skill, resilience, and an unrelenting approach to batting, helped the English team build a formidable total as they look to take control of the…

[alotofpockets]

The Tooney and Russo Show | Alessia Russo x Williamson!Reader, Leah Williamson x Sister!Reader & Ella Toone x Platonic!Reader

Where you take over hosting The Tooney & Russo show when Vick is sick.

Woso masterlist | Words: 1.2k

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“Tooney, you’ve made it!” Alessia stood up and hugged her best friend. You were meeting Ella for breakfast before heading to the studio to film their last podcast episode for the season. “How was the trip?” You asked after you gave her a hug as well.

Ella sat down with a sigh, “I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, the tube is not my friend.” You shared a knowing look with your girlfriend before you both chuckled, Ella and tubes didn’t go together, and she would complain about them every single time. Alessia and Vick had offered to get a studio in Manchester and make the trip over, but Ella insisted that it was more practical if only one person would have to travel. Yet, she often brought her boyfriend with her, so the one person only rule rarely applied. Either way, it was always great when Ella was in town.

“Is Leah not here yet?” You shake your head, “You know my sister, always a busy schedule.” The two Lionesses nodded in agreement, “She said she’d join us when her meeting was done though.”

Just when your food was delivered to the table, Leah made her way through the door. “Sorry I’m late.” You all greet her with a hug and wave off her apologies. The four of you were having a great time chatting over breakfast, when both Alessia’s and Ella’s phones buzzed at the same time. It was a message from Vick, letting them know that she’s sick to the point where she has lost her voice, so she won’t be able to make it to the shoot.

While Alessia and Ella started discussing their options, you were thinking. “I can host it.” Three pairs of eyes met you in question. “Come on, it will be fun! I know all of you, and the fans know me as well.” It didn’t take much to convince them of your idea.

“Hello and welcome to this very special episode of The Tooney and Russo Show with me not Vick Hope.” Alessia and Ella cheered excitedly and Alessia announced “It’s the season finale!” 

“As you can hear and see, I am not Vick. Sadly Vick had to miss out because she’s sick, but I am here to step in. My name is Y/n Williamson, and yes the last name should tell you all you need to know. Speaking of Williamson’s, I am not the only one of them here today. My sister, Captain of the Lionesses, Leah Williamson is our guest for this episode.”

The four of you chat for a bit about the relationship with Leah on and off the pitch. It was an easy environment and it felt like it was just a chat between friends, which of course really it was. 

“Oh and before any of you start saying Tooney is the third wheel because Y/n is my girlfriend and Leah’s sister.” She looked between the two of you with a chuckle, “Let me tell you that those two are like the same person.”

“They really are.” Leah chimes in. “Sometimes when I see Y/n with Ella and Alessia, I think she might be dating Ella instead.” 

“In another life.” You joke, getting a laugh out of the Lionesses trio. “Yeah, we are pretty similar. We have the same sense of humour, and have a lot of the same opinions on things. When Less started dating her, I was afraid that maybe my bond with Less would be affected, but I think Y/n made us even closer.”

“Yeah, sometimes I even feel like the third wheel with them.” Alessia laughs. “But you love it.” Ella says in defence. “Yeah I do, I’m glad the two of you get along so well.”

“At this point, I think we annoy Leah and Alessia equally.” You say proudly, and Ella agrees with you. ”You two are a nightmare when you team up against us.” Leah says teasingly. “But we love you.” Alessia follows up quickly.

When everyone was done laughing you moved onto the next topic. You asked about them winning the Euros and how football changed in England after, and how Alessia’s move from United to Arsenal was through the perspective of her former and new club teammate.

“I actually had a question for you, Y/n.” Ella put out into the group. “What’s it like having the England captain, the woman that is the face of English football, as your sister?”

“That is an interesting question actually. I admire her for everything she has done and is doing, and I am so proud of her and to be her sister, but at home she’s just my sister. We still argue about who gets the last ham sandwich, and who took the last cookie from the jar.” You joke.”

“Oh yeah,” Alessia hooks on, “The love for ham sandwiches runs in the family, it’s not just Leah.”

“I’ve got another question!” Ella perks up. You chuckle, “If you wanted to host, you could’ve just said so.” She sends you a challenging look, before biting back. “Wouldn’t have to if you did your job right.” You chuckle, “Okay fine, you win this one. What’s your question?”

“Well, I know the story, but I’ve seen some comments from fans wanting to hear how Less and Y/n got together, with Leah being Less her captain and all.” You glance at Alessia, letting her speak for the both of you.

“Oh that is an interesting one. Many people think Leah wouldn’t have liked us getting together, but she actually told me to ask Y/n out.” Leah nodded, “Yeah, they kept looking at each other with heart eyes, and I couldn’t take their pining any longer. Every time I was trying to eat my ham sandwich in peace, they would just be all gross.”

You raised your shoulders, “Even I was shocked when Less told me that Leah approved. Now it makes sense though. Leah has always protected me and Jacob, and wants us to be happy. She knows Less and knew that she would treat me right.”

“Alright alright, we get it love birds, don’t ruin my appetite for lunch with your sappiness.” Leah jokes. “Speaking of lunch, I think we’re about ready to go have some. Thank you everyone who has stuck with the Tooney and Russo Show all season, personally I cannot wait for them to start on another season. As always, send in your questions and it could be featured in one of the next episodes!”

As you finished your sentence, the three girls waved to the camera and said bye. The cameras and microphones got turned off, and that concluded the first season of the podcast. “That was so fun!” Leah agreed, “Yeah, thank you so much for letting me be a part of this.”

After the four finished lunch, you went your separate ways again. You and Alessia made your way home, her hand in yours as you strolled the streets. “You were a natural, darling.” You smiled, “Yeah? It was a lot of fun, thank you for allowing me to join you.”

“Mhm! Vick might fear for her job when she sees the episode.” Your girlfriend jokes with a little nudge to your shoulder. “Hmm, as much as I loved hosting, Vick is a much better host. Plus that way I can just sit behind the scenes and look at you with heart eyes all episode.

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[crimson-and-clover-1717]

Stede Bonnet and the Subversive Shirt

In season one, despite the colours, lace, and detailing, Stede’s dress is mostly conformist in cut and style. His shirts are high-buttoned, cravated, and do not show much flesh below his chin. Coupled with the pantaloon and waistcoat, Stede’s wearing the clothes of traditional masculine presentation of his era.

There are times Stede’s clothing becomes less formal. During the sword practice with Ed in 106, Stede’s shirt is open and the cravat loosened. Again, in 107 we see Stede in his open nightclothes wandering on deck. During evening story hour, his jacket is removed. Stede usually seems more relaxed during these moments too.

Stede’s style changes properly on the second leaving of Bridgetown. What Stede is wearing openly as he drags the boat to sea is a rather romantic poet-pirate look with billowing shirt and sash. The look has links with future nineteenth-century Romantic freethinkers, championing individualism, revolution and liberty - including sexual liberation.

The open-neck shirt was popularised by Byron and Shelley a hundred years later. It was a deliberate choice of styling in opposition to enforced gender presentation and monogamous heteronormativity. The fashion of the times, similar to the 1700s, was high collars and neck-wrapping in order to force the holding of the male head in a stately and erect manner. It’s all about rigidity…

For an English gentleman of the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, to have his shirt open and loose in public, was a sign of effeminacy. It was women who showed their décolletage in society, who were allowed a softer presentation; this new style hinted strongly at sexual and gender nonconformity. Women were viewed as more animalistic, men as cultured. Cultured people cover up. Softness, looseness - these are aspects of female sexuality, a bit bestial. And women are also a little bit insane. Why would any man, especially a man of status, want to present as feminine and lesser? And what does it say about patriarchy if some men actively choose to relinquish their privileged status by presenting more effeminately? It’s dangerous.

By today’s standards, Byron was pansexual and polyamorous. Shelley’s sexuality is less clear, but he was viewed as a subversive atheist and disinherited. Both might consider themselves nonbinary today. Shelley especially seems to have had a strong gnc presentation. Both left England for more liberal Europe.

I feel the costume department must’ve made a very deliberate and informed choice regarding Stede’s shirts post season one, but I don’t feel it’s the one some people think it is. I know part of DJenks stated aim was to ‘make Rhys Darby as sexy as possible’, but it’s not about appearing more masc. just because he’s showing more flesh. It’s about appearing more Stede. Stede is expressing a new-found confidence in his sexual identity and gender expression, by choosing a more freer, less structured, less traditionally masculine way of dressing, associated rather presciently with future Romantic liberalism. It seems poets and pirates have more in common than we realise. And both were considered dangerous for questioning the system.

However, Stede is also an individual in flux and he circles back to a part of his former self. The Red Suit is a sort of hybrid male/female costume. The cuffs, detailing and shirt itself are femme. But there are elements of traditional masculinity which are quite toxic. The epaulettes reinforce the inverted masculine triangular shape. Anyone who grew up in the 1980s will remember their mothers feeling forced to wear exaggerated shoulder-padding as they entered male-dominated workspaces. They also enforce military rank. Stede thinks he needs this imagery to ‘be the Captain’. He doesn’t. The exaggerated coattails are also absolutely synonymous with upper class male power. It’s masculinity as performance and power-play. Stede needs to let all of this cursed patriarchal nonsense go.

As so often’s the case in OFMD, external struggle, this time with the crew over the Red Suit, could also be a manifestation of Stede’s internal conflict and shifting identity. It’s a final letting go of patriarchal ideas, especially around captaincy. The crew certainly don’t want it. Stede is (more than) adequate just as he is. At the end of all the pushing and pulling, Stede keeps the most relevant bit of the outfit - the shirt. It’s the least restrictive part, the more feminine and therefore, the more subversive on a male body. It’s a sartorial representation of a changing Stede.

The three shirts worn in series two are deliberately opened-collared and low-cut, showing more and more of Stede’s chest. This is a traditional feminine aesthetic which historically on a man, at least in the anglosphere, was considered subversive and dangerous. And Stede couples his shirts with a different sort of masculinity, a leather trouser. Class-wise, this is a traditional working man’s garment. Through his new choice of clothing, Stede is rejecting entirely his previous role within patriarchal hegemony, both the imposed status and imposed gender norms.

This was in my drafts a while but inspired to try and pull it together by @celluloidbroomcloset posts here and here

[pitchsidestories]

Alex Scott's daughter (1) II Leah Williamson x Reader

"Our song is the slamming screen door Sneakin' out late, tapping on your window When we're on the phone, and you talk real slow 'Cause it's late, and your mama don't know." ~ Taylor Swift, Our Song

part 2 I arsenal women masterlist I word count: 1747

Being the daughter of Alex Scott was significantly different to having any other mum. Not only had football a very important part in both of your lives, but you also were much closer than other families were. Alex had gotten pregnant with you when she was only seventeen, struggling to balance being a young mum and finding her way into a football career. You two basically grew up side by side, with the same people and on football fields all across the country. Often, you felt more like sisters than mum and daughter.

Now you were twenty-one sitting on the sofa and watching your mum slip on some heels while simultaneously putting in her earrings. “Are you sure you don’t want to come with me to this party?“, she asked for the hundredth time now.

You rolled your eyes with an amused smile; “Yes, I’ll be fine at home with my book and a hot chocolate, Mum.“ “Okay, fine. I won’t ask anymore. But you’re going to miss out.“, she warned you, holding up a finger in your direction. Satisfied, you nodded once; “Thank you and no, I don’t think I will.“

Your mum shrugged into her coat and walked over to give you a kiss on the crown of your head: “See you later. I won’t come home too late.“ You closed your book carefully, keeping one finger between the pages as a bookmark and raised an eyebrow at your mum; “We’ll see about that. If a certain redhead is there, I’m sure it will take longer.“ You knew your mum loved parties. Especially when her new crush was likely to show up.

Alex just waved your comment off; “Oh shut up. She won’t be there.“ “If you say so…“, you stated before returning to your book. “Hey, I’m not just saying it, I know it.“, your mum continued. “Mum, you need to hurry up or you’ll be late.“, you reminded her, pointing at the clock in your living room.

Hesitant the former player started to laugh:” Yeah, fine. Why do you want to get me out of the house so quickly?” “I don’t.”, you replied flushing. Despite her feeling that something was off in the way you tried to make her leave, she said: “I’ll see you later.” “Bye, I love you.”, you shouted as Alex was already at the door. With a huge smile she turned her head towards you before stepping out of her home:” Love you, too.”

A couple of minutes after your mum left the door ringed. A bright grin was on your lips as you opened the door for your girlfriend: ”Lee, come inside.” “Hi.”, Leah smiled. A loud sigh escaped your mouth:“ Hey, sorry, I thought she’d never leave.” “Couldn’t say goodbye, huh?”, the blonde threw her eyebrows up in amusement.  “Nope.” The defender admitted:“ That’s kind of cute.” “So, any plans four this evening?”, you winked at her.

In a casual tone the older woman answered:” No, I thought I’d just come over and we’ll see what we’ll do.” “Sounds good to me.” An innocent smile was showing up on Leah’s face while she showed you what the Arsenal player was hiding in her bag:” I even brought my book if you prefer to read together.” “Like in a reading date? I love that. Do you want a hot chocolate, or I think we do have a bottle of red somewhere if you prefer that.”, you informed her about the options.  “Oh, I don’t mind. I’m just here to spend time with you.” Time together, was something you rarely had, especially with the busy calendar your girlfriend had even with her ACL injury.

So you decided on the following evening plan:” Okay, let’s spend our time with reading so your physio can’t complain about the fact that you don’t rest enough.”  

“I’ve rested enough.”, Leah protested before she was lifting you up carrying you in the direction to your bedroom. Giggling you pleaded: “Lee, let me down.” Although you knew all too well about the England’s captain stubbornness. Determined the blonde shook her head: “No.” “Sofa or bed?”, you questioned her. “To read on?” “Yes.”, you nodded.

“Bed.“, Leah decided quickly. You nodded in agreement of her decision; “Good choice.“ “I know.“, the defender grinned back while following you into your bedroom. With a sigh, she let herself fall onto your bed. You immediately followed suit. With your head propped up on one arm, you opened your book; “Want me to read out loud to you?“ “Sure, why not?“, Leah agreed and turned around to put her own book on the nightstand. As you started reading, she drew her attention back to you.

However, this did not last long. You could feel her fingertips on the outside of your thigh tracing small patterns and then slowly wandering higher and under your shirt. In feigned annoyance, you slapped her hand away; “Hey!“ “What?“ Her blue eyes met yours with pure innocence. “You’re not listening.“, you scolded her. Leah shook her head in denial; “No.“ You shot her an amused look which Leah took as an invite to kiss you and finally, you gave in.

The book dropped from the side of the bed as you passionately kissed her back, running your fingers through her long blonde hair. “Now I know why you didn’t finished The Cost of Living yet even though it’s only 200 pages.“, you laughed between two kisses. Your girlfriend rolled eyes as answer and pressed her lips on yours again. You two were so absorbed in each other that neither of you heard the front door open and close. “Honey, I’m home.“, Alex’ voice echoed through the hallway.

In surprise, you two immediately drove apart but at the same moment, the door to your bedroom opened. Alex stood in the door frame, watching the scene before yelling out; “What the hell?“ “Oh shit. Alex, I can explain.“, Leah replied. She got up from the bed and took a few steps towards her friend. Your mum refused to hear any of it, looking from you to Leah with in an expression of betrayal; “No. That’s my daughter you kissed there, Leah!“ “Alex…“ Your mum turned back to you; “And you? Leah is one of my best friends!“ “Mum…“, you whispered, looking down at your hands because you could not stand to look at the hurt in her face.

“Can I talk to you for a moment, Alex?”, the blonde pleaded. Sternly Alex shovelled one of her closest friends out of the room:” For how long this has been going on, Leah?!” “Not long. Really. We just didn’t find the right time to tell you yet.”, Leah confessed. Out of breath Alex lips escaped an: “Oh wow.” “Don’t be mad at her. I started it.”, the younger woman told her, the softness in her words when she mentioned her daughter startled the older one. Devastated the former Arsenal player shouted: “You? When? How? Why?” “Because your daughter is cute.”, Leah said trying not to hurt her best friend any further while staying honest about her feelings.

Furious Alex looked at her:” I know she’s very cute!” “Alex.” Angrily the ex-defender waved with her hands:” What?!” “Calm down.”, the blonde asked her to. “So you started it?” “I did.”, the England skipper nodded earnest. “Are you serious with her? If not I swear-“, Alex began.  Without any hesitation Leah stated firmly:“ Alex, you know me. I don’t date unless I mean it.” Groaning the BBC reporter hid her face in her hands:” I know and I even told you recently you need to let someone in your heart again, that you’re ready to love again.” “And I am.”, the Arsenal player confirmed. “With her?” “Yes.”, the blonde affirmed.

Carefully you reached out to the brunette: “Mum?” “I’m fine. Sorry, I’m just being dramatic it’s what I do.”, Alex apologized.  A mild but also tired smile appeared on Leah’s face:“Only when it comes to her.”  “True.”, her friend admitted while putting the arms around her daughter into a tight hug. Quietly you said:” But mum I’m not a kid anymore.”  “I know that.”, your mum mumbled into your ear. “But?” “It’s Leah. And you. I’ve to get used to that first.”, the brunette revealed. You let out a sigh of reveal:” That’s okay, we respect that.” “You should leave now Leah.”, Alex told the younger woman. The blonde went to you and pressed a kiss on top of your head:” Oh okay, good night you two. See you both soon.”

You share on last look with Leah; “Night, Lee.“ “Good Night.“, Alex answered curtly and closed the door behind the blonde defender. Your mum turned back to you but didn’t say anything. “How was the event, Mum?“, you finally decided to break the silence. “I don’t want to talk about that right now.“, she shook her head earnestly. You bit your lip, trying to avoid the elephant in the room; “What do you want to talk about?“ “You.“, Alex replied simply. With a sigh you agreed; “Alright.“ Slowly, you sat back down on your bed.

Your mum was still looking at you with her arms crossed in front of her chest but her facial expression has relaxed a bit; “So? When did you want to tell me?“ “Soon, really.“ Alex raised an eyebrow and repeated sceptically; “Soon?“ “Yes?“ Unconvinced, she shook her head; “I don’t believe you that.“ “I’m really happy with her.“, you stated, tired of discussing with your mum.

Finally, she seemed to soften up and sat down next to you; “You really are, huh?“ “Yeah.“ “I can tell.“ You carefully tried to find her eyes; “You’ll get used to it, right?“ “I think I will.“, she answered, a smile tugging on her lips. You nodded gratefully in her direction: “Thank you.“

“Hey?“, she asked and nudged you with her shoulder. “Huh?“, you looked up in surprise. Your mum winked at you; “I don’t want to know anything about what you two are doing together, okay?“ Perplexed, you could not stop yourself from laughing; “Okay.“

After a moment of silence, Alex cleared her throat; “I’m sorry I send her away for tonight.“ “Don’t worry about it.“ Gently, she slapped you on your thigh as she got up from your bed; “Let’s order some food and you tell me about you two? How does that sound?“ A big smile on your face, you followed her; “That sounds great, Mum.“

[wheredidhiseyebrowsgo]

Any enemies to lovers future AU Sterek fics? At first they annoy each other just as much as they used to, but ofc that changes. Thanks, ur awesome

Oh definitely.

magical protection at the hands of a snarky spark by sychia_rin

(1? I 341 I General)

Stiles stormed his way through the room. The ward he literally just made felt broken.

He eyed the tall man standing on the balcony as he turned to face him, he quirked up an eyebrow looking as shocked as that grumpy face could get him. He must be some newbie guard.

"I just put that ward there shitface. Shoo," Stiles motioned for him to move. The guard stood in place, watching Stiles as he stomped closer.

....

Where an overworked Stiles works for the (royalish?) Hale family doing magical tasks. Vaguely Merlin inspired if you squint.

royal blue fits better with Derek by 08JustLizeth80

(1/1 I 3,129 I Mature)

Where Derek Hale is the prince of England and Stiles is the (extremely) ineloquent and mouthy first son of the United States.

Or

Where Stiles thinks royalty is such an archaic concept it shouldn’t even exist (which has nothing to do with his inadequate and totally not existing crush on the prince).

Knot Your Typical College Romance by stilesanderek (minxxx)

(1/1 I 51,546 I Explicit)

In which Stiles loves studying at Beacon Hills Supernatural University and even though he loves his group of friends, he just wishes that Derek wasn't included in it. Stiles hates the guy fiercely, and he knows it's completely mutual, and what he also knows it's completely mutual is the hate boner they both have going on for each other. What happens after they finally hookup after years of tension, though, isn't something Stiles ever signed up for.

“Shut the fuck up, Stilinski,” Derek hisses, their foreheads less than half a dozen of inches apart.

“Oh yeah, big guy?” Stiles says, stuffing his chest in defiance, licking his mouth once and then finally saying, “Make me.”

all you have is your fire by hansuckss

(7/? I 20,624 I Mature)

“Why wouldn’t I? I mean, if it’s a matter of saving someone’s life. You know,” Derek smirked. “There are lots of things I can do for an hour.”

Everyone knows they can count on Stiles Stilinski, the most composed paramedic at the fire station, and he takes pride in his work. At least until a new firefighter shows up. The newest firefighter-in-training, Derek Hale, is a former football player with a huge hero complex and limitless energy. And until fate brings them together, Stiles can put up with the man's presence. Sparks fly—not in a positive way. The fact that Derek is hotter than the fires he puts out and annoyingly charming doesn't help.

Help Wanted (But Not Really) by reillyblack

(9/9 I 26,096 I Mature)

"Stiles, I'll clear up your confusion about the position. Derek here needs someone to live with him. He's a difficult person to live with, so I won't sugarcoat that. But his responsibilities at the company right now make it impossible for him to actually take care of himself and his home. That would be your job," Laura explained.

Both Stiles and Derek objected at the same time.

Five Times Detective Stilinski and Fire Captain Hale Had Sex In Public, and One Time They Did It In A Bed by bleep0bleep

(7/7 I 32,853 I Explicit)

"Did you say--" Stiles starts.

"What?" Derek growls.

"We're not a couple!" they both retort in unison.

"We're not together," Stiles insists.

Lydia coughs pointedly. "An incident report filed by 87th Precinct Captain Erica Reyes. March twenty-fifth, eight p.m. Came back to the precinct to grab my coat, only to hear Stilinski banging his new boyfriend in the holding cell."

Words Cannot Espresso How Much You Bean to Me by isthatbloodonhisshirt (wasterella)

(1/1 I 68,366 I Teen)

“You’re late,” Derek informed him coldly, jaw clenched. He barely even moved his mouth to speak. This guy was seriously scary.

And because Stiles was suicidal, he said, “No, I’m Stiles.”

The look he got could’ve curdled milk. Stiles even noticed that Derek’s muscles were tensing, arms bulging even more and wow this guy was scary and hot but mostly scary holy shit.

“You’re not funny,” Derek informed him coldly.

Stiles shrugged. “I think that’s a matter of opinion.”

Like it or Not by Halevetica

(56/56 I 80,902 I Not Rated)

Stiles works as the editorial assistant at Vogue. He loves everything about his job except for his boss, Derek Hale. Derek Hale is the worst and Stiles hates him. But when Derek drags him to the yearly awards dinner within the company, he is forced to play boyfriend for the night to make Derek's ex jealous. Things couldn't get much worse...or so Stiles thought.

(Fuck you they said) As they threw their threads from their wedding bed by dearericbittle (dutchmoxie)

(9/9 I 96,199 I Mature)

First Son Stiles Stilinski just accidentally caused an international incident. And apparently the only way to save human-werewolf relations is to marry him off to Prince Derek of Triskele. Stiles is going to need all of his acting skills to make the marriage look real, because the Prince is kind of a fucking asshole.

Enemy Lines by qhuinn (tekla)

(17/17 I 149,179 I Explicit)

This is the story of werewolf Derek Hale and human Stiles Stilinski: two people who grew up in the same town but completely different worlds, their realities split by the war between men and wolves.

Years later when Derek returns to Beacon Hills, he does it as Alpha of a military pack on a mission to capture those responsible for the region’s resistance. With his main objective, Sheriff Stilinski, out of sight, he settles for the next best thing: his son, Stiles.

Neither of them suspects they’ll need to trust each other if they want to make it out this alive.

The Final Pack by Kedreeva

(33/33 I 428,148 I Mature)

Humankind is fighting its way back from near extinction against the supernatural beings that fed upon the remaining humans in the aftermath of the 2012 apocalypse. On the front lines, Stiles' best friend gets bitten by a werewolf and Stiles must strike a bargain with wolves in order to save him.

[leennaan]

Leah Williamson/ Coming Home

You were nervous. After working for the royal navy for now almost nine years you decided that you missed enough of important events in your wife’s and your family’s life. When you were first recruited at the age of 18 it was the best thing that could happen for you. You always wanted to step into your grandpas footsteps and you did.

You quickly climbed the ranks until you became captain just after you turned 23.

Your wife was esthetic when you told her.

You knew Leah since you both were just five years old.

You became best friends until she asked you to be her girlfriend on your 15th Birthday.

It was one of the happiest moments in your life.

After you asked her to marry you in the summer of 2016 you got married in a small setting after her season in 2017 both of you being just 20 but you were never more sure of something.

No one even knew you were together not even her teammates and you liked the secrecy it gave you a bit of a rush.

When you were told in 2020 you would be stationed in America for some years you knew it would be hard but you both managed the distance. One of the hardest things was not being able to be there with her when she captained England to the Euros win. But you were unbelievable proud of her.

When she raptured her ACL and you couldn’t be there for her it broke you.

So when you were told that you would have to stay over sea even longer you knew you couldn’t be apart from her anymore so you asked to be discharged.

That is what let you to this day.

Standing in a sold out emirates stadium at the semi finals of the champions league 2023/24.

You talked with Jonas and asked him to help you surprise Leah.

The players knew that a former navy captain would be honored but that was about all the information the players had.

After the players walked on the pitch, Leah captaining Arsenal and after the champions league hymn was played it was time.

You heard the Stadion speaker announce you so you walked out of the tunnel still in your uniform.

“And now before we start with the match we would like to honor former Royal Navy Captain Y/N Williamson for her service.”

Your eyes were only focused on Leah. She gasped as your name was announced and sunk to her knees as soon as she saw you walking out of the tunnel. You could see that a few tears had already escaped her eyes and you felt some of your own tears roll down you cheeks. Her teammates looking confused between you and her captain as you walked towards her.

Suddenly Leah jumped up and started running at full speed towards you, jumping in your arms once she reached you. You caught her and held her close, crying into her neck.

“ I can’t believe you’re here. I missed you so much! Please tell me that you’re here to stay.” She whispered into your ear. Still clinging to your body.

“I am here baby. I am home. I here to stay. I am not leaving you again.”

After you both had calmed down a bit you let her down, still holding her close.

And it you didn’t care that you were standing in the middle of a sold out emirates, four years without holding your love, without being able to hold her were just to long. So you captured her lips with your own.

The kiss was everything and more. You felt her shiver and smile into the kiss.

After what felt like a lifetime but wasn’t nearly long enough you pulled away. Breathing hard and looking at a smiling face.

“I can’t wait until after the match but now you have to what you do best. Win this match. I am so proud of you!” You said and she nodded, kissed you one last time before she went back to her team.

Once the game started you went to Leah’s family and did what you wished you could have done for the last four years supporting your wife at one of her most important matches of her career.

Arsenal won the game 3:1 and qualified for the champions league final.

This evening you didn’t move from Leah’s side. Together you told her teammates about how you got together and everything between. Just holding your girl in your arms.

Nothing could top this feeling.

You knew you did the right thing. Never before had you seen Leah so happy, not even after the Euros win.

Coming home was the best decision you ever made.

“I love you Leah Williamson.” You said to her when you were dancing together at the winning party.

“I love you to Y/N Williamson. Always.”

[summer-princess]

Part of the Game (Alessia Russo x Leah Williamson)

Summary: Alessia's return to Manchester doesn't quite go to plan. In the aftermath, Leah takes her mind off of things.

Originally posted on my ao3 in October after *that * match, but I decided (for reasons unknown) to start posting some of my stuff here!

Disclaimer: obviously fiction

🔞 minors dni

Alessia was trying not to take it too personally.

It was just part of the game, she told herself. Just part of the game.

But that didn't make it any easier to hear the jeers and the insults from the same fans who were, this time last year, cheering her on.

Her former teammates had been beyond kind, and some of them had even approached her at halftime with frantic apologies on behalf of their fans. Ella had glared daggers at the section of the stands where the loudest jeers were coming from, and the sight of her best friend poised on the edge of violence on her behalf had, admittedly, cheered Alessia a bit. But now that she was back at the team hotel, the blonde forward couldn't stop hearing the fans' cruel chants echoing in her ears, over and over again.

With nothing to distract her from it, the roaring of the crowd brought an unwelcome moisture to Alessia's eyes and, wiping angrily at any stray tear that dared to attempt an escape, she resolved to settle in for the night. She would return to London in the morning and put this behind her.

Just as she was about to pull the covers over herself and start trying to get to sleep, a gentle knock at her door forced the Arsenal forward to rise from her bed. One hand still tucked in the front pocket of her sweatshirt, Alessia swung the door open to reveal her guest.

Leah hadn't traveled with the team, but she had made her way to Manchester to attend the match. While Beth was on the brink of her return, the same couldn't be said for her national teammate- Leah was still a good way off stepping back on the pitch for a competitive match, but just having the England captain around the squad brought a significant boost in morale.

Alessia wished that she didn't know why Leah was here, though, at her door. The older woman took one look at the former United player's red-rimmed eyes and, suspicions confirmed, gently nudged her way past her teammate and into Alessia's room, laying a hand on the younger's shoulder and rubbing it gently.

"Hi, Leah," whispered Alessia, immediately cursing herself for how small her voice sounded and hoping that Leah hadn't noticed the little tremble of her lower lip.

That proved to be a futile hope as Leah sat down on Alessia's bed, opening her arms for her national teammate. Joining England's captain on the mattress, Alessia allowed herself to be pulled into Leah's side. The little kiss pressed to the side of her head didn't surprise her as much as it once might have- since signing for Arsenal, the blonde forward had quickly become acquainted with the vast amount of physical affection shown between teammates, with random hugs from behind and lingering touches relatively constant. Besides, even though she was somewhat reluctant to admit it to herself, the merest brush of Leah's lips against her skin was enough to send a warm shiver through her whole body.

"I'm so sorry they treated you like that, Alessia. You didn't deserve any of that."

Alessia shrugged, shuffling closer to the older woman. Leah's words didn't erase the ache, but they did plaster over the worst of the cracks. Even though Leah was only two years older than she was, the defender somehow seemed far beyond her years, her soft comfort exactly what Alessia needed.

"Thanks, Leah," whispered Alessia, leaning into the feeling of Leah's hand gently rubbing her back.

Leah's back was pressed against the pillows of Alessia's bed, the younger woman tucked into her side, half-seated but just one motion away from being flat on her back. The older woman's lithe hand came up to brush a stray tear away and, as she did, her eyes locked on Alessia's watery ones. Something flashed across Leah's face, something that Alessia couldn't quite read. Whatever it was made Leah take her own bottom lip between her teeth and bite at it gently, gaze raking up and down the teammate in her arms.

Slowly, she leaned down, closer, and Alessia's breath froze in her lungs. If she didn't know any better, she would say that the way Leah's mouth opened indicated something like desire. But that was impossible- here she was, jumping to ridiculous and fantastical conclusions as her teammate was only trying to comfort.

Right?

The blonde defender's thin fingers traced up her cheeks, stroking the bones there, searching for something in Alessia's face as the younger woman stared back, wide-eyed.

Leah's face was less than an inch from her own, gazing into Alessia's astonished eyes as the younger woman's cheeks flushed, quite unable to believe that this was actually happening, that what she instinctively knew that Leah was thinking was what was truly running through the older woman's mind. There was no way, no way this was real.

But it was- once a little nod from Alessia at the older woman's raised eyebrow established her consent, Leah was leaning down and pressing her lips to Alessia's. The kiss was gentle at first, the blonde defender's mouth taking control of the embrace as she explored Alessia's mouth with her own.

The coil in Alessia's stomach, the muted desire she always felt whenever Leah was this close, tightened, causing her to press her thighs together without a thought. Leah spotted the movement with ease, even through the kiss, and Alessia could feel how the older woman's lips parted in an eager grin. Hands wandering as she continued to kiss Alessia, Leah sought out the waistband of the younger woman's shorts.

“Oh, sweetheart,” said Leah, cradling the younger blonde against her chest as her fingers slipped down the front of Alessia’s bottoms, splaying against her lower tummy as she awaited permission to take things further.

“Let me take your mind off everything?”

Alessia let out a low whine, nodding and melting into her captain's touch. She could feel Leah's confident smirk as the defender tilted her younger teammate's head up, pressing another kiss to her lips, still slightly parted from where Leah's mouth first made contact. Still gentle, Leah's lips were nevertheless insistent, leaving no question as to who was controlling the kiss.

Not that Alessia minded, of course.

Especially when Leah's fingers breached the barrier of her panties, a single finger sliding through the gathered desire at her entrance. A second finger brushed against Alessia's clit, the sensitive bundle of nerves responding immediately to her touch.

"Oh, Lessi," cooed Leah, trying and failing to conceal the way her voice dropped, breath catching in her throat, suddenly very dry.

"Is this all for me?

Alessia nodded, and the older blonde leaned down to give her another kiss, even as she wetted the tips of her fingers with the forward's own arousal, bringing them up to stroke firmly at her swollen clit. The bundle of nerves sang under her touch, the pads of Leah's fingers rubbing firmly at the sensitive spot and forcing Alessia's eyes closed for a moment as she acclimated to the pleasure of fingers that weren't her own.

“Leah,” whined Alessia, rocking her hips into the defender’s touch. Leah's fingers were long and slender, pressed together as they drew circles around her teammate's swollen clit. Alessia's teeth came down to bite her lower lip, trying to disguise the moans that Leah was extracting from her with borderline humiliating ease. Her cunt clenched around nothing, pleading for more in a way that her voice couldn't.

The fabric of Alessia's bottoms hampering her fingers, Leah lifted them momentarily away from the forward's clit and, ignoring the younger woman's whine of protest at the loss of contact, yanked down her shorts and panties in one fluid motion.

Flushing scarlet, Alessia dared a glance up at her captain, a fresh wave of arousal gathering at her core when she saw how dark Leah's eyes had gotten, the older woman's intense gaze locked on the spot between her thighs. When she saw Alessia looking at her, Leah leaned down to give her another bruising kiss, using her own lips to pry Alessia's mouth open, devouring the younger woman.

"Fuck," Leah moaned into Alessia's mouth.

"Fuck, Lessi, baby, you're so beautiful."

The blush coating Alessia's cheeks deepened from pink to red, the forward feeling suddenly shy under Leah's scrutiny. Sure, this wasn't the first time that Leah had seen her body- they had been national teammates for years. But to have Leah see her like this, tank top askew and revealing the muscles of her strong stomach, bottoms discarded on the floor and no way to hide the pool of arousal that was growing bigger with every passing second, and find her beautiful... Alessia was fairly certain that she was going to die.

Leah's fingers quickly found a new pattern, the fingers which had just been stroking her clit gripping the nub gently and beginning to tug at it. With every fresh wave of sensation she provided to Alessia, Leah was rewarded with the forward's sinful noises in her ears. Alessia sounded like an absolute dream- the younger woman was so responsive, so wound up for her, and Leah's heart swelled unexpectedly at how right it felt to be the one inflicting this pleasure on her.

"Can I use my fingers on you, baby? Can I put them in?"

Alessia moaned her agreement at Leah's sudden request and was rewarded with a kiss to her neck, the older woman's lips crossing the sensitive skin, letting just the barest hint of teeth scrape across the forward's pulse point. Permission granted, Leah didn't need a second invitation as she stroked Alessia's soaking hole with one finger, the others continuing to work against the younger woman's clit. The younger blonde's copious arousal coated Leah's digit, tracing the warm and wet entrance of Alessia's perfect body.

Alessia whimpered as Leah let the single finger slip inside her soaking cunt. The digit, thoroughly coated, moistened by Alessia's own juices, slipped easily in, and the forward's eyes slammed shut as Leah pressed deeper inside her. It was only one finger, and not a very thick one, but the sensation of having her national team captain sliding inside of her, claiming her pussy with her gentle touch, was enough to make Alessia clench down around Leah as the older woman's thumb continued tracing unidentifiable patterns on her throbbing clit.

Leah waited a moment before giving into the instinct to move her finger, giving Alessia time to adjust to the welcome intrusion. Then, she began to thrust, curling her fingers to try and reach the places that would bring the forward the most pleasure.

"Such a good girl," cooed Leah as she fucked her younger teammate. "Doin' so good for me."

As soon as she was sure that she could take it without pain, Leah slipped a second finger into Alessia's soaking pussy, holding back a low moan of her own as the younger woman's velvety walls pulled her in. The forward was tight, tighter than she'd expected her to be even after the first finger, and so Leah waited until the younger woman shifted her hips, trying to get more friction, before she started moving her fingers gently in and out again. The gentle scrape of Leah's long digits against Alessia's walls made the forward whine loudly.

"Mmm," chuckled Leah. "You like my fingers inside of you, honey?"

Leah's voice was smooth and sinful as the younger woman's eyes slammed closed, head shaking rapidly up and down in confirmation of the rhetorical question. The nod wasn't enough for Leah, though, as she whispered into Alessia's ear.

"Words, gorgeous," she cooed, and the prolonged moan that the demand drew from Alessia's mouth was almost enough to make Leah abandon any plans she had to be gentle with the younger woman and throw Alessia's legs over her shoulders and fuck her, hard, until she passed out from the pleasure.

"Fuck, Lee," whined the blonde forward. "Please, it feels so good!"

"What feels so good, baby girl?"

"Your fingers," sobbed Alessia, shifting her hips to try and get Leah deeper inside of her. Her answer, barely coherent, drew a satisfied smile from the older woman as she increased her pace.

"That's it, honey. Opening up so perfectly for me.

"Eyes open, doll," said Leah, dripping confidence as she worked her two fingers in and out of Alessia's soaked pussy. She was almost tempted, based on how well Alessia's walls were stretching to accommodate the more than welcome intrusion, to try and add a third finger before shaking her head at the idea- the moment she did that, the poor girl wouldn't be able to hold back, if the way her cunt was clenching was any indication.

God, the way Alessia made her want to leave her better angels by the wayside...

"I want to see your face. Want to watch how well you take my fingers."

The effort seemed Herculean to Alessia as she forced her eyes back open, gaze quickly locking on Leah as the older woman concentrated wholly on her pleasure, on driving anything cruel or sad from Alessia's mind and replacing it with the ecstasy of her touch.

Meeting Leah's eyes with the older woman's fingers buried deep inside of her, taking her apart, brought Alessia to another level entirely. Seeing the refreshed tears at the corners of the forward's eyes, Leah had to bite back her own noises of arousal, muffling them with Alessia's lips.

"Don't care what anyone says," hummed Leah into Alessia's neck as her lips moved up and down, leaving little marks on the sensitive skin that Alessia hoped would remain in the morning, talented fingers continuing their welcome assault on the younger woman's soaking core.

"You're so good. So talented. So pretty and sensitive and perfect. My good girl."

As Leah spoke, her fingers curling into the sensitive spot that made the forward see stars, Alessia's mind was sinking deeper into a haze of pleasure, Leah's hands on her rendering any other concerns vacant. Nothing mattered but Leah, England's captain methodically taking her to pieces.

The way Leah's low voice strung her phrases together made her want to cry again. My good girl, Leah was calling her. She hadn't expected to love the sound of those three words as much as she did, hadn't expected the thought of being Leah's to draw a high-pitched breath from her throat, a noise that was quickly swallowed by Leah's mouth returning to claim her lips once again.

She could feel the coil tightening impossibly further, begging to snap. Before she even knew what was happening, Alessia found herself teetering on the edge of orgasm, Leah's expert fingers and sinful voice working her higher and higher, clouding her brain, mouth wide open as she moaned.

“Do you need to come, baby? Hm?”

Alessia nodded desperately into Leah’s neck, the thought of her upcoming orgasm at her captain's hands sending a fresh wave of pleasure through the younger Arsenal player's body.

"Please, Leah," she whined, too out of her mind with desire to care who might be able to hear her desperate begging through the walls. "Please, I need it!"

At the younger blonde's pleading request, Leah sped up her thrusts, curling her fingers into the sensitive muscle and massaging it mercilessly while her strong thumb pressed hard on Alessia's swollen bundle of nerves. The forward was senseless with pleasure, the need to come consuming her every thought.

"Oh, sweetheart," cooed Leah, voice saccharine and coaxing and straight out of Alessia's most private fantasies. "Come for me, Lessi. Let go. Come for me, be a good girl for me."

The older woman's long fingers continued their movement while her thumb rubbed steadily across her swollen clit. Hearing Alessia's desperate moans, Leah dragged her teeth across the sensitive skin of the forward's lower jaw, and that was the last little bit of contact that Alessia needed to crash over the edge of the cliff, every muscle contracting and releasing as her orgasm overtook her.

“There we go,” cooed Leah softly as Alessia flooded her fingers with her orgasm. Capturing her cries of pleasure with another kiss, Leah continued fucking her gently. The younger woman's nails dug into Leah's shoulder as she clung to the other blonde, small half-moon indents pressed into the silken skin grounding the former United player to the bed beneath them. Alessia's sweaty head fell back onto the pillow as she gasped, overwhelmed by the waves of pleasure still wracking her body.

She wasn't quite sure how long her orgasm lasted, only that Leah's fingers never paused their movements, wringing every ounce of Alessia's climax from her tired muscles.

"So perfect," soothed Leah as the waves ebbed, catching a gasp with her lips.

It took Alessia a moment to come back to herself, certain that if she tried to stand on her wobbling legs, it would send her tumbling to the floor. Seeing the younger woman shudder, Leah couldn't help but smile, a hint of smugness coating her lips, swollen from Alessia's kisses. The blonde forward looked so beautiful, so wrecked and perfect, and it was all Leah's own doing. Even though she was certain there would be a dark spot on her bottoms, Leah's own arousal was barely an afterthought for the defender.

For the younger Englishwoman, however, it was anything but.

As she slowly regained control of her muscles, the first thing Alessia did was reach tiredly towards Leah's waistband- even from her position, cradled between the pillow and the older woman's arms, she could tell that the defender was wet. That making Alessia come as hard as she ever had in her entire life, clearing her brain of any negative emotion and replacing it with pure pleasure, had certainly affected England's captain. Even as her hands connected with fabric, that realization sent a surging satisfaction through Alessia's prone form.

“Oh, no, no, sweetest,” whispered the defender into her younger teammate’s hair, taking Alessia's wandering hand in her own and giving the forward's knuckles a kiss. “Don’t you worry about me. You’re almost asleep already, you can show me what that pretty mouth can do another day.”

Alessia’s tired pussy spasmed in interest, sending a little shudder through her exhausted body, a fact that didn't go unnoticed by Leah. The defender chuckled gently, brushing a lock of hair out of Alessia's eyes.

"You like the sound of that, don't you, darling? Like the sound of putting your tongue to good use and making me feel so good?"

Alessia nodded sleepily, puckering up her lips. Leah acquiesced to the silent request with a soft smile, leaning down to press a gentle kiss to the younger woman's mouth.

"Wanna make you feel good," whined Alessia into Leah's mouth, drawing another fond chuckle from her national team captain's perfect lips.

"Don't worry, pretty girl," cooed Leah. "I'll let you show me how good you can be for me another day."

The younger woman was drifting, too close to sleep to properly express just how perfect that sounded, but the way she nuzzled closer to Leah conveyed the message well enough. Pulling the covers up over both of them, Leah dropped a gentle kiss to the top of Alessia's head, the younger woman practically cradled in her embrace.

Leah's hands stroking through her blonde hair, the echo of the older woman's praises repeating in her hears, drowning out the noise of the unfriendly crowd, guided Alessia to sleep.

[mapileonxputellas]

Player (Leah Williamson x Reader)

Request can be found here. I'm loving writing for some new people! 2.8k words x

You weren’t exactly proud of your reputation but you also had nothing to be ashamed of.

You liked having a good time and your teammates were included in that, they always knew what the deal was and you made sure no-one ever got hurt. You had rules and you stuck by them, the biggest of them all to never get feelings and never make it to a second night.

When you got the chance to move to Arsenal from your hometown club of Wolfsburg it definitely wasn’t a decision you took lightly. Everyone knew of your situation there, they were like a family to you and never judged you for all the bad decisions you made. But you lived your life so far taking risks and you never backed away from a challenge, so that’s how you found yourself stood outside the Arsenal training centre on a sunny August morning ready to start the preparation for the new season.

“Y/N, hey!” The unmistakable voice of Katie came out from nowhere startling you from your thoughts. “You just going to stand out here?”

“Very funny.” You muttered bringing her in for a hug. “It’s nice to properly meet you.”

“You too.” Your move was announced just before the Euro’s and your former teammate in Noelle had added you to the club group chat. The players had introduced themselves on there and you had the odd friendly chat with players after a game in the tournament but this was the first time you would be properly meeting everyone.

“Come on, everyone’s excited to meet you.”

Katie informed you on the way that everyone would be in the dining room for breakfast before training. Having played in the final for Germany you would be joining the England girls as the last to arrive back for pre-season, knowing you would just be in the gym today.

You must have been the last to arrive as you walked into the crowded dining room. “Guys.” The Irish woman grabbed the attention of the room, all eyes immediately focusing on you. “This is Y/N.” There was a general greeting back to you as you scanned the room trying to make eye contact with all the friendly faces.

Kim being the captain was the first to come over, breaking your scanning of the room as she went with you to get a morning coffee, talking you through what was going to happen. You got the idea that the team always had breakfast together before moving to whatever that day entailed in training. You had joined slightly late but she assured you that there was enough time for the coffee.

There were very few seats left but you found one free next to your fellow defenders in Jen and Lotte.

“Hey,” You said taking a seat. “It’s nice to meet you all.”

“Not quite the circumstances we met last time.” Lotte said referring to your place on the losing side in the Euro’s final.

Thankfully even though you wouldn’t consider yourself to be fluent, your English was very good so you could understand everyone. “Not quite.”

3 weeks prior: Euro’s final

The final whistly had blew, it wasn’t enough. Your dream was over.

120 minutes of giving it your all only to fall at the final hurdle.

It was as if the energy had been zapped from your whole body, your legs giving way as you fell to the floor. Every emotional just flooded out of you as you buried your head into the grass hiding the tears streaming down your face.

You felt a hand on your back, slightly lifting your head to find an unknown England player’s boots as they knelt down beside you. “You gave it everything. Let’s win the Champions League together.” Of course it had to be the England captain herself, a player you admired so greatly.

You couldn’t bring yourself to make eye contact with the captain however you sat up enough to bring her in for a hug. “Congratulations, go and enjoy it.”

“Thank you.”

You shared a short conversation with Beth before she was whisked away for all her duties, Lotte the final player to make her way over.

“Congratulations.” You once again said bringing her in for a hug now you’d stood back up. “This is some atmosphere.” The majority may have been cheering against you but you couldn’t help but soak in all the people here to watch you play.

“It’s incredible. You were too by the way, I’m looking forward to working together.”

“Thank you, enjoy tonight for me.”

“I’m sure we will.”

You watched them lift the trophy and despite your overwhelming sadness you were excited to play with these players and have a new start.

…..

You’ll never forget the first time you properly met Leah. Probably because to this day you were still embarrassed about the whole thing.

Lotte and Beth led you to the gym area where you would be for the rest of the morning which annoyed you to no end, just wanting to get out onto the pitch again after the final disappointment.

Though there were some drawbacks, for the majority of the time you prided yourself on your confidence. It helped you make friends, allowed you to show off your qualities and to put it bluntly it usually helped with the girls.

That’s how you found yourself in the weight section, clad in just a sports bra and shorts rolled all the way up as you wiped the sweat from running down your forehead.

“So….” You leaned against the bar and watched as Beth ran on the treadmill. “Is it true? About you and Viv?”

“Is what true?” The English woman questioned back.

“Has she got in before I got the chance? Who knows maybe I can still persuade you to go to dinner with me?” You could see the other woman trying to process what you said in her head so you put her out of her misery. “I’m joking, don’t look so worried.”

“So the rumours are true then…”

“Depends what rumours you’re talking about.”

“That, no offence, you get around.” Katie again appeared from behind you. “Again, no offence.”

“None taken, I mean if you’re surrounded by beautiful women all day then you appreciate them a little bit more and they were all very beautiful.”

“Who’s beautiful?” Another voice questioned and you turned to face the one woman you’d yet to meet, the one who you’d been waiting to meet. The woman you’d had probably the biggest crush ever on since you’d met her that day in Wembley.

“Oh, uh…” You stuttered. “Well you see Katie was just asking-“

“Y/N was just explaining her love of dogs.” It perhaps wasn’t the most believable lie but you were thankful for Lotte making that up on the spot. “I think you probably meant to say cute.”

“Yeah”

“Well it’s nice to meet you.” God what was happening to you. This was so embarrassing as Leah leant over to give you a hug and something just took over your whole body. It was like you couldn’t move your arms as you almost stayed like a statue. “Have you had a good break?”

“Uh, yeah I just spent a few weeks with my family. Caught the sun.”

“I can see that.” Where was the confidence now as Leah very obviously checked you out her eyes running over your tanned arms and legs. “Fancy coming on the bike with me? I’d like to get to know my new partner.”

“Yeah sure.”

“Is that the only word you know?”

“What do you mean?”

“Ah so you do say other words than yeah, I swear that’s been your answer to like all my questions.” The blonde teased getting on the bike next to you as you both started at a gentle pace.

“I’m sorry, I’m just a bit, I don’t know.” Any normal person would say nervous but you didn’t get nervous.

“It’s ok to be nervous, it must be a lot when you don’t know anyone. Well you know Noelle but you get my point.”

“Mm.” You couldn’t help but get a good look at Leah as she faced forward. Her whole appearance was just so commanding from her serious expression to her classic high ponytail and chiselled jawline.

“How was it back in Germany?”

“Huh?” What had happened?

“After the final.”

“Oh.” Get a grip. “It was incredible, maybe not on the same scale as in England but thing have definitely changed.”

“Why now then? Why not stay in Germany at your hometown club?”

“Why not?” You questioned back. “I’m 25 and it feels like now is the best time to go, my family were very encouraging.”

“Understandable.”

…..

The two of you spent a lot of time together over the next week or so. You’d often make the excuse that you needed to get to know your defensive partner, learn more about each other but the two of you just got to know each other. You learnt about her family, you told her about your own, she gave you the low down on all your new teammates and you told her about your ambitions.

The blank moments though continued, it was like it would only happen in specific moments, when she would make eye contact with you, when she’d sub-consciously touch your leg or graze your arm. Your mind just couldn’t concentrate on anything else. You’d been doing weights together when you suddenly forgot the name of your family dog back at home and what you’d had for dinner the previous evening.

Thankfully no-one else had yet to be witness to these moments. Until now.

You joined the rest of the team out on the pitch, Lotte and Jen had joined you as first out that sunny morning as you started playing with the free balls. This was when you were most confident, flicking the ball up in the air, showing off all your tricks. This was your comfort zone.

Your one touch football was something you prided yourself in and that’s why you flicked the ball up in the air in a series of moves receiving whistles from the two other girls only to be interrupted by a third voice.

“Impressive, maybe you can give me some lessons someday.” Damn the eye contact and one again you almost seemed to zone out, completely forgetting about the ball which you’d just flicked up in the air and therefore came crashing down on top of your head, breaking you out of your daydream.

“Fuck.”

It wasn’t anything serious and your teammates knew that which meant they all just burst out in laughter, your hand coming up to rub the slightly delicate spot on the top of your head.

“Very funny.” You told them.

“Maybe I don’t need the lessons after all.” Leah teased snatching a ball from your feet. “Come on let’s see what you can do with your feet this time.”

…..

It didn’t get better. In fact maybe it got worse.

In the following month you’d managed to spill your drink on her during breakfast, skied a penalty when she jokingly placed herself in the net and made countless errors in drills when up against her.

You’d played your first match together at the weekend and thankfully your game plan wasn’t affected by your growing crush. In game you were the serious defender you were known to be, sweet talking your way out of a few dubious tackles with the ref and denying a massive chance for the opposition in the final minute to close out the win for Arsenal.

“Y/N do you fancy coming round for dinner tonight?” Leah asked when you sat down the next morning with your toast and a coffee.

You could feel your heart start racing when she asked that question, what did she mean? As a date? As a friend? “Yeah, maybe we can order something in, as a treat.”

“Great, I think that’s seven of us now so we could all get a takeaway.” You didn’t let your face drop as you realised for better or worse that it wasn’t just going to be the two of you. “I’ll text you my address.”

“See you tonight.” You whispered as you watched her walk away from the table, instead coming to meet the eyes of Lia and Katie sat opposite you.

“I’m watching you.” Lia smirked. “I see that look in your eye.”

“Someone’s got a little crush.” Katie teased.

“Shut up.”

Leah had stayed true to her word and messaged you her address for that night. You all agreed to a takeaway but of course you couldn’t turn up empty handed and that’s how you turned up at her door with a wine bottle in one hand and a box of chocolates in the other. Thankfully you’d also all agreed to stay casual, your yoga pants and a sweatshirt suitable for the evening.

Lia opened the door for you, once again smirking as she let you into Leah’s apartment, a scowl from you enough to keep her silent.

“Y/N.” Leah said as you walked through into the lounge area where the group were congregated, the England captain the one to stand up and pull you in for a hug. Her arms were barely round your waist for a few seconds but that was enough to get your cheeks as red as a tomato something not missed by your sniggering teammates.

“You alright there?” Katie asked from her position on the sofa. “Something on your cheek.”

“It’s just a bit hot out there.” You muttered. “I need a drink.”

The night was going well, you’d all enjoyed a Chinese and enjoyed a few drinks, though you were only a tiny bit tipsy, before moving back into the living area to play a few board games.

Sadly first up was the worst of them all. Twister.

“Y/N left hand yellow.” That smirk was almost a permanent feature on Katie’s face as she read out the instructions and saw your current predicament. It would have been a simple move had Leah not been in the way. The only way to get your hand down was to basically hover or straddle over her waist as she basically did the crab underneath you.

If it was anyone else in this situation you probably would have laughed, sadly it was you and that red flush was coming up again. You moved across, avoiding eye contact with the woman below you as you tried to avoid eye contact with the woman.

“When I said I wanted to get to know you I didn’t quite mean this.” Leah whispered, her head mere inches away from your own. “Is it getting too hot in here again?”

“Something like that.”

You let everyone else have their turn before it came back around to you. “Y/N left hand green.” You’d done well so far to avoid any actual contact with Leah’s body before this instruction which meant you basically had to reach underneath her body to reach the green dot.

Your balance was good but not this good and before you could save yourself you fell straight onto the woman sending the both of you toppling onto the floor. In trying to save the both of you, you tried to reach down for the floor but instead of coming in contact with the carpet you instead you just grazed Leah’s chest being met with the bare skin from her cropped shirt.

“I’m so sorry.” You immediately jumped up. “Leah, I’m so sorry.”

In a stark contrast to your panicked face Leah couldn’t keep the laughter in, hunching over almost in tears with the rest of the girls. “Don’t worry about it honestly.” She said before moving in to whisper in your ear. “Maybe we could go on a date to make up for it?”

“Seriously?”

“Seriously.” She confirmed before moving out of the room, leaving you alone with all the curious faces as a little happy smile came up on your face.

“You’re such a loser you know that.” Katie teased as you sat down next to her. “You know you practically couldn’t keep your eyes off her the whole meal.”

“How on earth did you ever get laid by so many women when you can’t even think when you’re around them.” Beth teased.

“You have no game.” Lotte agreed.

“That’s how I managed to get a date with her then.” You teased back your confidence rising. “What can I say Leah is just unique. Very unique.”

[full-of-terrors]

Letter from Dr. Stanley to Dr. Fergusson written on board HMS Erebus July 12, 1845- Awe of the Arctic Exhibit 2024 NYPL

Transcript: My Dear Fergusson, having a few moments to spare before the letter bag is finally closed, I hasten to drop you a line to say that, although within the Arctic Circle , I'm not yet frozen to death and therefore in the land of the living and very jolly. We had a fairish passage out here but had a mighty gale of Cape Farewell, which sent us flying with closed topsails and courses to Cape Desolation, where in spite of the dismal name we found comfort. There's smooth water and a moderate breeze. These islands, and in fact, the whole of this western coast of Greenland, is the most barren and uninviting I ever beheld.

Some of the land is very high and serrated and has the appearance of being volcanic. On the bare rocks, large quantities of tripe-de-roche may be gathered, but as we were not reduced like our excellent captain on a former occasion to such a means of subsistence, no one I could find tried its qualities as a nutrient. We are completely surrounded with icebergs, some of them upwards of 200 feet high. They are, however, from the extreme heat disappearing fast and by their constant disruption, almost frightening your very life out of you.

I and a boat crew had a very narrow escape the other day out shooting. I had just fired and killed an eider duck when I observed that we had drifted closer to an immense iceberg, which I had previously noticed a day or two before in a decayed condition. I said to an officer who was with me "What luck it should come down by the sun!" And then ordered the men to pull quickly from our dangerous neighbor when it fell with a crash. Most stunning and awful to witness. There never was so lucky an escape. The discharge of my two barrels had no doubt hastened its overthrow. And although we were at a distance upwards of 100 yards, quite near enough we were knocked and tossed about by its displacement in the sea in a most uncomfortable manner.

The island swarms with mosquitoes and they are now flying about the gun room in all directions. They are the largest I ever beheld but not the most stinging. We sailed tonight for Lancaster Sound and the transport to dear old England with a report of our proceedings up to this period. At this season of the year, in this latitude, as you are aware there is no darkness. The sun never dips below the horizon. The nights I have there for devoted to shooting and the day to skinning and preserving the specimens I have killed. Since our arrival I have not slept more than 2 or 3 hours in 24. Goodsir is working harder than medusas and desires kindly to be remembered to you.

We are all sanguine and getting through the barrier into Beechey straits this year. Every one of the native Eskimos say this is the most open season they ever remember. And on the strength of our prospects I and the other officers have ordered letters to be directed to us at Panama and Kotzebue. The latter place will, of course, be the first port we shall make when we get through.

I have not a single man on the list and I have not had for several days. Sir John Franklin is not like the same person. He is so much improved in appearance and energy. He is almost always the first on deck and the last to leave it in all weathers. I must conclude now, old fellow, with best wishes and kind regards to Mrs. F and the bairns.

And believe me, your very sincere friend, Stephen S. Stanley. I had intended to have written to Fortnum and Masons. Pray tell them like a good soul that we are delighted with everything they furnished us and the members of the mess unanimously declare them to be trumps and we should be sorry to return before we have consumed all their good things.

[sccpmccabe]

ᅟᅟᅟ vacation & love at the first sight | leah williamson x brazilian!reader

Summary: With the Olympics drawing ever closer, the lionesses decide to take time out to enjoy the Spanish summer, but Leah didn't expect to see a familiar face there, or... When Leah meets a friend again and ends up falling in love with one of her team-mates.

* The hyperlinks guide you to the profile of some Brazilian players since most may not know them and a very famous song here, in case anyone is interested in knowing what it is like and what it is about.

ᅟ After a difficult season with even greater challenges ahead, Leah, as captain, made the decision to take her team to relax a little. The Lionesses had landed in Ibiza just over a day ago and it was already possible to feel the team's spirits lighter.

ᅟ The blonde was lying on the sofa with her legs on Georgia's lap, bored out of her mind while she scrolled through her Instagram feed when one post in particular caught her attention. Apparently, Rafa, her former Arsenal teammate and the rest of the Brazilian team had a similar idea and were also enjoying the pre-Olympic period in the Spanish paradise.

ᅟ Her fingers were quick to slide over to the other defender's profile and send her a few messages. Leah and Rafaelle talked for a few minutes before the Brazilian invited her and the other Lionesses to join them for lunch and a pleasant afternoon in their style as both captains thought it would be a good idea for their teams to get together.

ᅟ “Girls!” She caught the attention of the others who were spread throughout the living room and kitchen of the house. “We received an invitation to join another team for the rest of the day and after thinking about it a bit I decided that we would go, so get out of your pajamas and wear something comfortable. The Brazilian team awaits us.” Everyone was confused by the sudden announcement but they knew that once the blonde was determined to do something, nothing could change her mind.

ᅟ England and Brazil have met a few times on the women's football scene, with the biggest clash between the two teams being the Finalissíma played at Wembley and won by the European team after a tense and hard-fought game. Some players knew each other because they had faced each other in clubs or even played together on some occasion, however it was still new territory for them. With the change in the technical committee of the South American team, many new players ended up appearing in the new coach's squad, with the majority of them playing in national football and due to the Brazilian league being very subjugated, they and their skills were almost completely unknown. They all knew the big names like Marta and Cristiane who still remained in that cycle to share their experiences with the younger players as they were legends and great pioneers in the field of women's football, one of them being the winner of 6 Ballon d'Or, five of which won them consecutively.

ᅟ About an hour later the Lionesses arrived at the place where the other girls were staying, and they could already hear an unknown song playing loudly in addition to the sound of their laughter and the unmistakable smell of barbecue in the air. Rafelle, Gio and Geyse were already waiting for them outside with warm smiles on their lips, reassuring some of the players. Lucy was one of the first to run towards them, pulling the now United player into a hug despite Ella's protests telling her to leave her teammate alone. With that pleasant reception, the British already felt more comfortable in that environment, but when they arrived in the backyard where the “party” was taking place and the others were, Leah felt butterflies in her stomach, feeling a little nervous - something that was very unusual. for her -.

ᅟ The vast majority of them were gathered on the deck around the pool with a drink in their hands and excitedly singing a song in their language, barely noticing the presence of the other women, however, everything changed when one of them came running towards Rafa.

ᅟ “Graças a Deus tu voltou! A Marta estava te procurando feito doida. (Thank God you're back! Marta was looking for you like crazy)” An unknown girl began to speak, only then noticing the presence of the other women behind their captain. “Eita, eu nem vi vocês aí! Sejam bem-vindas, eu sou a Gabi, mas todo mundo me chama de Portilho. (Wow, I didn't even see you there! I'm Gabi, but everyone calls me Portilho)” She greeted excitedly, aware of the confused look on the Euro winners' faces as they didn't understand anything she was saying. When she didn't receive any response, the ward looked at the brunette in confusion. “Rafa, por que elas estão olhando pra mim como se eu fosse de outro mundo? (Rafa, why are they staring at me like I'm from another world?)”

ᅟ Since that was one of the first times that Portilho met a foreign player, she spoke in Portuguese as always, completely oblivious to the fact that the other women did not understand the language. Noticing this, the Brazilian captain was quick to correct her posture and translate what the other was saying to the British.

ᅟ “I apologize, I completely forgot that different languages could be a problem between us.” She said a little embarrassed by what had happened. “But, translating the previous statement, this one here is Gabi Portilho, she is one of our wingers and she basically welcomed you guys here.”

ᅟWith that clarification, they all smiled at the nice girl and greeted her with a handshake, saying their names to introduce themselves. As they continued walking around the yard and meeting the other women, They noticed that some had a certain trouble with English language, but they didn't let this affect them and did everything they could to try to communicate with the England squad. They were all a little shaken when Rafaelle guided them towards Marta, looking at her with total admiration and affection. Leah even stuttered a few times and was embarrassed when she was praised by the women's football legend for her defensive skills.

ᅟ The defender continued to explain to them a little more about the personalities of her teammates, finding it easier to separate them into groups. Antonia, Gabi Nunes, Portilho, Kerolin and Ary Borges were the most lively and extroverted. Marta, Tamires and Cristiane were the “mothers” of the group, Geyse, Lelê, Luana, Duda Sampaio, Zaneratto and Y/N were part of the more shy and reserved group and would certainly need some time to become completely comfortable in the presence of the European champions, but they were still as nice as everyone else and although she liked them all, Leah's eyes fell on you, marveling at your appearance.

ᅟ You were talking and laughing with someone Leah quickly identified as Duda, noting how close the pair seemed to be. The blonde was on the other side of the yard with Alessia, Mary and Gio, who were talking animatedly about something and despite wanting to interact with the others, her attention was focused on the young player. As if you were able to feel the blue eyes on your body, you turned your head towards the English defender and noticed that all her attention was on you, which resulted in a sudden wave of shyness and flushed cheeks.

ᅟ Despite the difficulty imposed by the language barrier, it was possible to say that the two groups got along very well and were having a very pleasant day, both introducing their own cultures in that peaceful environment and expanding their knowledge. At a certain point Leah learned that Y/N was 22 years old and that she played for a national club called Corinthians as a midfielder alongside Duda, the two being considered great promises in women's football but that they didn't have much intention of having a international career since they loved and identified a lot with the team from the east of São Paulo.

ᅟ Your shyness did not tend to last for long and this was proven when a little more alcohol was consumed. Now you sang and danced freely, having even more fun and creating a bond with some English players like Alessia, having tried to teach the clumsy striker how to dance, something that didn't work out very well, by the way.

ᅟ At that moment Marta was sitting in a chair with a guitar in hand, ready to show a little more of Brazil to the Lionesses. The oldest had already explained a little about the different styles of music that her country had and spoke proudly about MPB (Brazilian Popular Music) and was about to sing one of the biggest hits by one of the biggest names in Brazilian music. The song was ‘Carolina’ by Seu Jorge.

ᅟ “Carolina é uma menina muito difícil de esquecer, andar bonito e um brilho no olhar, tem um jeito adolescente que me faz enlouquecer e um molejo que eu não vou te enganar…” Most of them sing along with Marta, but in a more subtle way, while the rest just watched and listened carefully, loving the style of that song and getting into the mood, following the example of some players like Geyse and moving their bodies in movements. subtle. Despite her focus on the spectacle in front of her, Leah noticed your absence among the Brazilian players, frowning and wondering where you had gone when she saw a silhouette coming out of the house with something in her hands. It was only when that figure got closer that she understood that it was you carrying a tambourine, soon starting to play and joining the group again. “Maravilha feminina, meu docinho de pavê, inteligente, ela é muito sensual. Te confesso que estou apaixonado por você, ô Carolina isso é muito natural. Ô Carolina eu preciso de você, ô Carolina eu não vou suportar não te ver, Carolina eu preciso te falar, ô Carolina eu vou amar você.”

ᅟ The blonde wasn't sure if this was possible, but she felt even more mesmerized by you, every movement in sync with the music, moving your feet and hips in a graceful way that the defender had never seen and didn't even think she was capable of for someone to do. Due to the heat and burning sun of Ibiza, your tanned body was only covered by a white bikini and a thin layer of sweat. Your hair was still wet from the pool and adorned her face and delicate features to perfection. It was obvious to everyone there that she was attracted to you like a magnet is attracted to iron and you seemed to take advantage of that situation.

ᅟ None of the girls on the British team had ever seen their captain like that, so… helpless. It was as if the situations had reversed, suddenly Leah was the only one blushing at the slightest glance of your gaze on her. Rafaelle and Gio were talking to Georgia, Keira, Lucy and Mary about how painful it was to watch that while Ella and some other girls just took that opportunity to make fun of the blonde, who was just grumbling and threatening the young United player.

ᅟ At a certain point she saw an opportunity to get away from all those provocations and went to a place further away from that small crowd to put her thoughts in order, but she didn't count on the fact that you, among all those people, would be the one who would go after her.

ᅟ “Hey, capi. Everything is fine?" Your voice was sweet and carried the Brazilian accent that she found so adorable and that was almost enough to make her calm down. “Sorry if I'm intruding where I shouldn't, but you looked so good a few minutes ago and now you're seem annoyed... Did something happen?” Leah could tell your concern for her was genuine and felt her body relax even more at that.

ᅟ “Yes, everything is fine. I'm just feeling a little dizzy from the drinks, I'm not used to drinking that much alcohol, even though I have very good resistance. Your caipirinhas are definitely different from anything I’ve ever consumed.” With that, you laughed and Leah swore her heart sped up even more at that sound she had barely known but already loved.

ᅟ With the confirmation that it wasn't any bother, you got even closer to her, noticing that the blonde was admiring the view that the house's backyard had of the beach. Your thoughts were a million, having different ideas but still afraid of being inconvenient or being dismissed by her. In search of help, you looked over your shoulder, looking for Rafa in the expectation that she would give you some advice about that and ended up being surprised by everyone's attention on the two of you and several positive signs from you and Leah's companions.

ᅟ “Um, Leah, what do you think about getting out of here for a bit and taking a walk on the beach? I’m sure this can help you sober up.” Upon hearing your invitation, a huge smile lit up her expression and she said a very excited “yes” before gently taking your hand and walking towards the beach beside her.

ᅟ The sand was warm beneath your bare feet and the breeze blew a few strands of hair as you walked side by side in the middle of a casual conversation, taking advantage of the calm of the beach and the moment to get to know each other a little better. To both of your surprises, you had a lot in common on and off the field. Just like Leah, you were always a fan and always played for the same team since youth and you couldn't see yourself playing for any other club in the world other than him and despite identifying with your sentence and admiring the passion that you had for the sport and the club that created it, she couldn't help but feel a little disappointed since even with so little time spent talking she already imagined herself playing alongside you on the field.

ᅟ You seemed like the perfect person for her, a woman that Leah only believed existed in her wildest dreams but who was suddenly in front of her. The blonde felt like a teenager in love and, in a way, stupid for having given her heart so quickly to someone she barely knew. Damn, she didn't even know if you liked girls, how the hell could that work? Her thoughts were very confused and she was so caught up in her own head that she didn't even notice your gaze on her, staring as if the captain was a work of art.

ᅟ It took a long time for the British girl to find enough courage to ask you about your love life, but when she finally asked you if you were single, your first response was not something verbal, but rather a smile so bright that the defender thought be able to illuminate the entire world.

ᅟ “Why? Are you interested?" Your voice was provocative and the phrase had a great effect on the captain, who opened and closed her mouth without making any sound. “Hey, relax, I'm just messing with you! But to answer your question, yes, I am single.” With that answer, the blonde with flushed cheeks gave a small smile, muttering something to herself. She still needed time to compose herself and to plan her next move, but she was startled when she felt the wet sand on her feet. Leah was so oblivious that she hadn't even noticed that you were walking closer and closer to the sea and when she was about to say something her sweet voice interrupted her. “Wait, what is that?” You asked, pointing to something that was apparently in the water, causing the British girl to walk in that direction and start looking for what you had seen, but there didn't seem to be anything there.

ᅟ “What, love? I don't see anythin-” Just as she was about to finish her sentence you gave her a push, causing the poor girl to lose her balance and fall into the water. As she stood up with an irritated frown, you laughed louder and louder. Besides this, you were still able to notice her coming towards her with a serious expression that indicated that she wanted revenge.

ᅟ The two of you ran along the beach as if you were two children and the only thing audible was the sound of your laughter, her heavy breathing and the blonde's threats. Despite being a very well-trained athlete, your legs were already tired and it was no surprise that Leah caught up to you so quickly, but you definitely didn't expect her to throw herself at you.

ᅟ Despite the uncomfortable fall, you were loving the feel of her body on top of yours and when she gave you enough space for you to turn around and face her, the same roguish smile from minutes ago adorned your lips. Having Leah Williamson on top of you was quite a sight, her blonde locks were a little messy but still looked so beautiful and different from before, her blue eyes seemed to be a few shades darker and even more mesmerizing and carried a kind of determination and confidence. You could tell that she was as focused on admiring you as you were doing with her, it seemed like the whole world around yourselves had stopped and the only thing you were able to see was each other's presence.

ᅟ The attraction at that moment was so much that Leah barely noticed that their lips were just inches away. Kissing you seemed like the right thing to do at that moment, but she was still hesitant, but once again that afternoon, you surprised her. Your chest rose from the sand and now the distance between you, which was already minimal, became even smaller. The blonde licked her lips and looked at you expectantly, ready to reciprocate anything you did.

ᅟ “You know, I’ve been waiting for this moment all afternoon.” You confided, speaking so quietly that the other woman was barely able to hear. “But I have to tell you something, I don’t kiss before the first date.” And with that, your lips moved a little away from hers and rested on her cheek. Once again the captain was paralyzed and didn't know how to act while you freed yourself from her body and walked away laughing. It took a few minutes for the defender to recover and when she did you were already far away, but that didn't stop her from getting up and running away.

ᅟ“Y/N! WAIT"

[A/N: I'm definitely thinking about making a second part of this :)]

ᅟ

[transbookoftheday]

🏳️‍⚧️🏴‍☠️ Trans Books To Read If You Love "Our Flag Means Death" 🏴‍☠️🏳️‍⚧️

Can't get enough of Our Flag Means Death? Read some trans pirate books!

On Mar León de la Rosa's sixteenth birthday, el Diablo comes calling. Mar is a transmasculine nonbinary teen pirate hiding a magical ability to manipulate fire and ice. But their magic isn't enough to reverse a wicked bargain made by their father, and now el Diablo has come to collect his payment: the soul of Mar's father and the entire crew of their ship. When Mar is miraculously rescued by the sole remaining pirate crew in the Caribbean, el Diablo returns to give them a choice: give up their soul to save their father by the harvest moon, or never see him again. The task is impossible - Mar refuses to make a bargain, and there's no way their magic is a match for el Diablo. Then Mar finds the most unlikely allies: Bas, an infuriatingly arrogant and handsome pirate - and the captain's son; and Dami, a gender-fluid demonio whose motives are never quite clear. For the first time in their life, Mar may have the courage to use their magic. It could be their only redemption - or it could mean certain death.

(The audiobook for "The Wicked Bargain" is narrated by Vico Ortiz!)

In a world divided by colonialism and threaded with magic, a desperate orphan turned pirate and a rebellious imperial lady find a connection on the high seas. Aboard the pirate ship Dove, Flora the girl takes on the identity of Florian the man to earn the respect and protection of the crew. For Flora, former starving urchin, the brutal life of a pirate is about survival: don’t trust, don’t stick out, and don’t feel. But on this voyage, Flora is drawn to the Lady Evelyn Hasegawa, who is headed to an arranged marriage she dreads. Flora doesn’t expect to be taken under Evelyn’s wing, and Evelyn doesn’t expect to find such a deep bond with the pirate Florian. Neither expects to fall in love. Soon the unlikely pair set in motion a wild escape that will free a captured mermaid (coveted for her blood) and involve the mysterious Pirate Supreme, an opportunistic witch, double agents, and the all-encompassing Sea herself. Deftly entwining swashbuckling action and quiet magic, Maggie Tokuda-Hall’s inventive debut novel conjures a diverse cast of characters seeking mastery over their fates while searching for answers to big questions about identity, power, and love.

The Lost Boys say that Peter Pan went back to England because of Wendy Darling, but Wendy is just an old life he left behind. Neverland is his real home. So when Peter returns to it after ten years in the real world, he's surprised to find a Neverland that no longer seems to need him. The only person who truly missed Peter is Captain James Hook, who is delighted to have his old rival back. But when a new war ignites between the Lost Boys and Hook's pirates, the ensuing bloodshed becomes all too real - and Peter's rivalry with Hook starts to blur into something far more complicated, sensual, and deadly.

In the Christian Republic, homosexual people are given two choices—a camp to "fix" them, or exile to the distant islands populated by lesbians and gay men. Sixteen-year-old Jason chooses exile and expects a hardscrabble life but instead finds a thriving, supportive community. While exploring his identity as a transgender boy he also discovers adventure: kraken attacks, naval battles, a flying island built by asexual people, and a daring escape involving glow-in-the-dark paint. He also has a desperate crush on Sky, a spirited buccaneer girl, but fear keeps him from expressing his feelings. When Jason and his companions discover the Republicans are planning a war of extermination, they rally the people of the Rainbow Islands to fight back. Shy, bookish Jason will have to find his inner courage or everything and everyone he loves will be lost forever.

Book titles:

The Wicked Bargain by Gabe Cole Novoa

The Mermaid, the Witch, and the Sea by Maggie Tokuda-Hall

Peter Darling by Austin Chant

Rainbow Islands by Devin Harnois

[fatherforgivethem]

The Crown: The Targaryen Family

Queen Mother Alicent: Alicent, mother of four, served her country strongly for years leading up to her late husbands death. When her childhood friend, Queen Rhaenyra, took hold of the crown, Alicent was finally able to live a life of freedom. With Daeron, her youngest, away at school and only visiting on the weekends, her house was rather empty.

Several years had passed before she met Captain Criston Cole. They met at a small dinner hosted by their close friends. The two began to meet every time that Criston was in London, and before long, they found themselves falling for the other. While Alicent had been nervous to introduce her children to Criston, they seemed to like the man. After years of being together privately, Criston proposed, and the two married at Westminster Abbey surrounded by the Royal Family, the prime minister and other members of the British government, and many other notable friends of the family. Alicent likes to spend her days riding her horses in the country side with her grandson Jace, tending to the gardens with Helaena, and creating as many dinners as possible for her family to attend.

Queen Rhaenyra: While still young, to the throne and in years, the mother of one tends to be kept busy with her duties as Queen of England. She can be found attending galas, international charity tours, and private meetings with the Prime Minister, as well as walking the halls of Buckingham Palace with her half-brother, Aegon, right beside her.

She married young when she was still just a princess and gave birth to her son, Jace. Her son was only two when her husband was tragically killed in a car accident and she vowed to never marry again. Instead, she put her focus into her duties as the heir to her fathers throne, and when her father passed away, she was crowed Queen. While she had intended for her own son to be her heir, Jace abdicated when he was only 15, and so, with the council of others, named Aegon her heir.

She likes to spend her free time with her beloved son Jace, as well as her close friend, Alicent. The two can usually be found at tea at Buckingham Palace with newspapers in their laps. She also makes sure to spend her time with her siblings and enjoys when her little niece and nephew run through the halls of the palace.

Criston Cole: Captain Cole of the Royal Navy had never imagined a life where he was married to the former Queen Consort, now Queen Mother of England. He had never given much thought to the Royal Family, and with the ever going war, it was the last thing on his mind. However, on a rare trip back home, he met the love of his life, Alicent. His life shifted from there, and as time went on, and the war was over, he finally allowed himself to be with her the way she deserved.

It was hard to win the favor of her children, now his. While Daeron and Helaena had decided that they liked Cole quite early on, Aemond and Aegon gave him a rather hard time, out of worry for their mother. All without Alicent's knowing of course. Aemond had refused to shake his hand and Aegon was set on giving him a stare whenever they saw each other. Though, as time went on, the more they got to know each other, and the closer they became. By the time Alicent and Criston were getting married, Criston couldn't see them as anything other than his sons.

Prince Aegon: The young heir splits his time between the workings of the crown and his family. Though, those two things tend to bleed into the other at times. He's happily married to Helaena and they share their beautiful twins, Jaehaera and Jaehaerys. At only three years old, they keep Aegon and Helaena busy.

He hadn't expected to become heir, but when Jace abdicated, a sixteen year old Aegon more than rose to the challenge as the new heir to the crown. From the time he was young, Aegon took his position very seriously and he has become passionate about his role. With his younger brother being an infamous playboy, someone had to keep the family name from tarnish. He can often be found walking just behind Queen Rhaenyra, offering his council and advice while he learns the ways of the monarchy from his older sister.

He likes to spend his time with his family when he's not busy working. He and Helaena like to take the twins to Balmoral, the Royal Family's home in Scotland when they can. And when Aemond is back, the two can usually be found on a hunt of some kind. Family is the most important thing to Aegon, and it just so happens that his family is also his job. He enjoys playing polo with his club when he's able to get away. While he prefers polo, his wife does jumping, and their home has a large farm full of beautiful horses.

Prince Jace: The young prince is furthering his education at Oxford university for his masters degree. He went there with Aegon when they were both younger and he couldn't help but fall in love with the school and his studies. Despite the gossip that went around, Jace had found a good group of people he could call friends. In the beginning, it was normal for him to hear the whispers of others behind his back about the inter workings of his family and making assumptions about his abdication. However, he learned to ignore these people and the rumors eventually died down.

The truth of it all was that Jace didn't want to be king. He loved his family more than anything, and aspired to serve them as a prince and valuable member of the royal family, but he had no wish to rule. And so, the smartest decision he ever made was giving it to Aegon. Jace had always looked up to Aegon, and so it only seemed right. The man was like an older brother to Jace, still was.

Jace, when he's not at school or a public family function, can be seen with his (technically) grandmother, Alicent. The two like to go on horseback rides together, and when they get lucky enough, Rhaenyra will join them. He spends time with Helaena and they usually watch the twins roll around in the garden. And when Daeron is back from school, the two like to spend their days playing tennis. Jace's favorite place in the world is Balmoral Castle, the family's summer home in Scotland, where they spend every Christmas and summer holiday together.

Princess Helaena: The young princess and mother of two likes to stay away from the politics of the family crown as much as she can, though she's known to attend many of the charity events hosted and attended by the family. Her wedding to Aegon was one that the public would never forget. The young princess is a favorite by many and their wedding at Westminster Abbey was said to be quite magical.

She loves to spend her time training her horses for her horse jumping career. Aegon had the farm built and decorated just for her. With her favorite colors painted all over the barn, and beautiful trees planted everywhere to make it seem like she was in a different world. Aegon is known to spoil her, but she's also known to never tell him off for it.

While balancing her time as a mother and wife to the heir of the crown, she does love to attend the ballet, and the twins enjoy it as well. She also enjoys spending time with other members of the family, including Aemond, Jace, and her mother Alicent. While she's a private person, she's prepared to become Queen Consort alongside Aegon when the the time comes.

Prince Aemond: With being in the Royal Navy, he tries his best to see his family as much as he can. Though he still finds himself at home very little. However, when he is home, his time is full of family dinners, public events, and private family matters. At the moment, he's been trying to defuse an argument between Helaena and Jace because the two disagreed about something in a book.

Public events are full of photographers trying there best to get photos of him talking to the young ladies in attendance. He's been given the title of Royal Playboy and while that might be true, he knows that his mother doesn't appreciate the title too much. Aemond, when not with his family, can usually be found at a club, where the girls are nice to look at and the alcohol is top shelf.

While his elder brother doesn't always like his partying tendencies, Aemond is more concerned with making sure Aegon doesn't sleep at his desk to care all that much. Aemond likes to spoil the twins as much as he can, and on special occasions he's known to spoil Daeron and Jace. Aemond also enjoys getting to hunt with his brothers and Jace while on holiday at Balmoral.

Prince Daeron: Prince Daeron is young and trying his best to take on the world one exam at a time. Being away for school makes him both excited to have freedom and has him missing his family. While he was always told to never use his title to get what he wants, using the prince card to visit home on the weekends is the only exception.

At school he's been lucky enough to make the tennis team along with a few boys he calls his friends. Tennis is something he's passionate about.. that and sneaking out of his dorm at night.

When he's home he can usually be spotted following his mother around, playing tennis with Jace, and hanging out with his siblings. He's not sure what he wants to do yet, but he's got some time before he finishes school and is expected to serve in the Royal Navy. For now, he's fine with playing tennis and spending time with friends and family.

Moodboards and editing done by @sidraofthewildflowers 💓💓💓💓

(This was a really fun collaboration!!)

** Repost because I missed some tags in the original 🫣🫣

[wosowrites]

Legacy’s Daughter (Leah Williamson x Reader)

warnings: none

a/n: probably the shortest fic i’ve ever written. based off this request:

prompt: in which leah is dating the daughter of one of the old lionesses and the reader goes with her mother to get her legacy cap.

Your mother was Kelly Smith. Yeah, the Kelly Smith. She had adopted you at only 24 year old. The adoption was out of the blue, and quite random to the fans, but you meant everything to her.

It also just so happened that Leah Williamson was a pretty big fan of Kelly. Having done the walkout with the former english captain as a young girl.

In August of 2022, at a Euros celebration party, you had met Leah for the first time. At the time, you were 20 and Leah was 24. Things had gotten a little wild, there was a lot of alcohol involved, and then an unplanned hookup. But after that night, when the alcohol wore off, you couldn’t brush the feeling of wanting to see her again.

Today, 8 months later, you and Leah were dating. The lionesses knew, so did your mother, but your relationship stayed private from the fans for now.

You sat in the drivers seat of your mothers car, driving up to St-George’s park. Today, she would receive her legacy cap.

You pulled up in the parking lot and then looked over to your mother. "Mum?" You said gently. "Yes sweetheart?" She asked, putting her phone down. "I’m really grateful for you. You had no reason to adopt me when you were so young. But you did, and you kept on captaining England and I’m so lucky to have you. And i’m really proud you’re my mum." You said to her.

Your mother smiled at you and leaned it to hug you, holding her close to you. "Okay. Let’s go get that cap." You smiled at her. "You just want to see your girlfriend." Kelly laughed. "I do." You answered.

You had always been close with your mother, she was the best mother ever. The perfect balance of being parent like and your best friend.

You walked in together, photographers already taking pictures. The second you found yourselves in the large futsal gym, you took in your surroundings. Multiple tables with dozens of red legacy caps, a bunch of former and current lionesses, and in the middle of it all, your girlfriend.

You walked up to her, tapping her on the shoulder and making her look away from her friends. "Baby!" She said happily. She wrapped her arms around your waist and spun you around as you wrapped your arms around her neck. "I’m happy to see you" she said into your hair. "You saw me yesterday." You giggled. "And i’m happy to see you again."

You let go of her and smiled at her, taking in her features instead of kissing her.

She took in yours and then you had to look away to not be too suspicious due to the cameras everywhere.

The ceremony started soon enough, they called the names of different former lionesses, and eventually, it was your mothers turn. You clapped loudly and whooped as she walked up to get her hat. As current captain, Leah placed it on her head and gave her a quick hug and a smile.

Leah gave a speech at the end of the hat distribution, and then came over to you. "I’m happy you came with Kelly." Leah said to you, putting her arm around your shoulders. "Me too. Life’s really crazy. She would never have known that the girl she walked out with that one game when you were like… 8 would end up being her daughters girlfriend. And the best captain englands ever had." You said to her. "Woah! Dont let your mum hear that." Leah laughed. "Hey! There my words but there also hers. She always says it. You’re the best Englands ever seen, Leah." you told your girlfriend.

[chasdesvoeux]

MUSTER LIST UNDER THE CUT Note that a) there are likely others I have not accounted for moving outside Charles circle who have yet to be added, but also b) it looks like a long list but by no means are all spots taken. If you want to join in just make a blog/sideblog and start interacting and I'll add you no questions asked. If you want a list of who all *isn't* taken, dm me and I'll forward you a guide to the AMC Cold Boys. Also c) some links might not work as blog names occasionally change. Please let me know if one is broken and I'll update it. Enjoy!

Anon, Peach - Peaches

Armitage, Thomas - Gunroom Steward (Terror)

Asleepmottley, Ash - Surgery Apprentice (Terror)

Blanky, Thomas - Ice Master (Terror)

Bridgens, John - Officer's Steward, Captain's Steward (Erebus)

Cracroft, Sophia - Fumbler (England)

Collins, Henry Foster - Second Master (Erebus)

Crozier, Francis Rawdon Moira - Captain (Terror)

Des Voeux, Charles Frederick (You Are Here) - Mate, 12 Year-Old Father (Erebus)

Fairholme, James Walter "Walt" - Third Lieutenant (Erebus)

Fitzjamie, Jamie - Commander, Captain (Erebus)

Franklin, Jane - Widow (England)

Franklin, John - Former Captain (Erebus)

Gibson, Billie - Officer's Steward (Terror)

Goodsir, Harry - Surgeon's Assistant, Anatomist (Erebus, Terror)

Gore, Graham - First Lieutenant (Erebus)

Hickey, Cornelius - Caulker's Mate (Terror)

Hoar, Edmund - Captain's Steward (Erebus)

Hodgson, George Henry - Second Lieutenant (Terror)

Irving, John - Third Lieutenant, Holy Ghost Boy (Terror)

Jopson, Mary - Former Mother (Marylebone)

Jopson, Thomas - Captain's Steward, Third Lieutenant (Terror)

Le Vesconte, Henry Thomas Dundas "Dundy" - Second Lieutenant (Erebus)

Little, Edward - First Lieutenant (Terror)

MacDonald, Alexander - Surgeon's Assistant (Erebus)

Peglar, Henry "Harry" - Captain of the Foretop (Terror)

Pilkington, William "Pilk" - Private (Erebus)

Ross, James Clark - Rear Admiral (Enterprise)

Silna "Lady Silence" - Strongest Soldier (Nunavut)

Stanley, Stephen - Surgeon (Erebus)

Tozer, Solomon "Sol" - Marine Sergeant (Terror)

Fagin (Erebus)

Jacko (Erebus)

Rats, The (Erebus, Terror)

Tuunbaq (Nunavut)

Will be updated as new members join the club, let me know if links don't work!

[mermaidsirennikita]

I’m a WHORE for bodyguard romances but I haven’t read them in a veeeeeerrrrrry long time.

Any recs???

Absolutelyyyy

Princess by Gaelen Foley. A newer all-time favorite of mine, the ultimate bodyguard book imo. He was raised by her parents after the age of 13, she's a princess, he feels unworthy as hell but is also an ELITE killer.... She wants to be with him so badly and puts her entire back into trying to seduce him. He gravitates between going "GET OFF ME" *shakes leg she's currently clinging to* and "you're a bad girl huh" because he's so trying to resist but is also desperately in love with/horny for her. Alternates between perfect angst and perfect hilarity. He fucks her while probably bleeding internally. *chef's kiss*

Dearest Rogue by Elizabeth Hoyt. No bodyguard romance rec list can go without this one! He's a retired captain of the guard, she's a duke's sister who's recently lost her vision. He's suuuuper into her but is all "I'm OLD, and she's a DUKE'S SISTER". But then some motherfucker tries to kidnap her (future hero of another book, naturally) and they have to go on the run. There's only one bed (and one of the best dry humping scenes I've ever read) ensues.

The Duke Identity by Grace Callaway. This one is a lot of fun because she's an underworld princess, and he's actually working for the feds, but he's undercover as her bodyguard and she's actually a nightmare woman who one day decides she must have him and doggedly pursues him like her life depends on it. Also, he wears glasses.

A Fated Inked in Blood by Danielle L. Jensen. A fantasy romance based on viking culture; the heroine is coerced into marrying this gross old man because of a prophecy, but he really has zero interest in her sexually. And then he's all "POWERFUL STRONG MEGARAKE SON OF MINE, YOU SHALL GUARD HER WITH YOUR LIFE". Not realizing that she met the son first and they had a Moment. Has a scene where he fingerbangs her in the furs~ with like, seventy people including his dad sleeping nearby.

The Professional by Kresley Cole. A Russian mafia book; the heroine turns out to be the secret daughter of a mob boss, and the hero is sent in to collect her/protect her. Verrry kinky, very hot, very fun.

Joss and The Countess by S.M. LaViolette. Joss is technically Alicia's footman, but she's actually employed him to be her bodyguard while she (a widow 12 years his senior) bops around town trying to find a lover now that her husband is dead. Joss.... is a former gigolo.... and knows EXACTLY what she needs. Which is a dom. A dom who will toss her about the bedroom.

Heart of Iron by Bec McMaster. Paranormal historical, a fluttery debutante type girl gets involved with some undercover mission stuff. The hero, a virgin werewolf, is assigned as her bodyguard. The problem: he can't have sex with her, because werewolfitude is passed through bodily fluids!!!!

Moonglow by Kristen Callihan. Another paranormal historical werewolf book, the hero is the heroine's unofficial bodyguard because someone is trying to kill her. She's a witch, he's a Scottish werewolf rake, he's also recently had problems getting it up... But those problems sure don't seem to be an issue around HER...

Temptation of the Highlander by Elisa Braden. The heroine fled England because someone was stalking her, and the hero is a massive Scot who's been enlisted to protect her. You know how it goes.

Knockout by Sarah MacLean. Blueblood Imogen keeps getting into trouble because she blows things up. Detective Tommy gets hired by her family to protect her; the family does not know that Tommy and Imogen have been circling each other for mONTHS.

Waiting for a Scot Like You by Eva Leigh. A widow on her way to an orgy (because she can finally have fun now that her husband is dead) enlists a Scottish veteran as her bodyguard. He's very grumpy, and also very dominant.

The Lyonesse Series (ongoing) by Sierra Simone. BUT OF COURSE. Tristan is hired as the bodyguard for Mark, who he begins a sexual relationship with... only to find out that Mark is engaged to Isolde (they have an agreement, it's not really cheating). And when Mark sends a heartbroken Tristan over to collect Isolde for the wedding... shit goes down.

(He goes down.)

Lord of Danger by Anne Stuart. Anne Stuart usually has primary and secondary romances in her historicals. The primary romance doesn't have a bodyguard thing (though it's delicious) but the secondary one does. And it's GREAT, because the hero is a knight sworn to celibacy, and the heroine is a beautiful flirt who drives him INSANE.

[alexbkrieger13]

Double vision

Partners on and off the pitch, Bayern pair Pernille Harder and Magdalena Eriksson have firm convictions on all the big topics facing women’s football in an era of exciting growth and mounting pressures

In a room at Bayern München’s training ground, Magdalena Eriksson and Pernille Harder are talking bicycles. One of their favourite things about Munich, the place they have both called home since making the switch last summer from Chelsea to Bayern, is the ease of travel for cyclists in the Bavarian capital.

Eriksson: “Now we live quite centrally so we can use our bikes to get anywhere.”

Harder: “It is a bit easier to bike here in Munich than in London.”

Magda: “We even took our bikes to Oktoberfest once.” 

Pernille (laughs): “We were biking straight!”

This is the beauty of an interview with the pair (even one conducted over Zoom, as this one is): you raise a subject and they bounce it around between them, their insights and reflections interspersed with lighter moments and laughter. And, as arguably their sport’s highest-profile couple – Harder is a two-time UEFA Women’s Player of the Year, Eriksson a Sweden stalwart – they have plenty to say. 

Both care deeply about matters on and off the football pitch. They are members of UEFA’s Football Board (of which more later), they support the Common Goal project – pledging one per cent of their salaries to support football charities – and on top of that they are advocates for the LGBTQ+ community. 

But, first, back to finding their feet in Munich, where the duo bring serious know-how to a Bayern side with big ambitions, despite an early exit from the Champions League in January. In Harder’s case, the Denmark forward knew German football already from her three years with Wolfsburg between 2017 and 2020. For Eriksson, after six seasons in England with Chelsea, this is an entirely new experience – which is exactly what she was hoping for.

“I think that’s how we are as people,” says the former Blues captain. “A reason why we moved is I am really curious about a new culture and a new environment.” From the sounds of things, that decision is paying off too. Away from the pitch, she is enamoured of the local coffee shops; on it, she has been impressed by the way “a lot of the girls take responsibility around the dressing room and with how things should work around the team. There’s quite a clear structure of different responsibilities, and the players take ownership of that. That’s something more like how it was in Sweden, and not at all in England. It makes us take responsibility and it’s something I appreciate.”

As for Harder, she elaborates on the unique culture of Germany’s biggest football club – one which attempts to marry sustained success with humility. “It really is a club where you have to work hard, be humble but also know your worth,” she says. “It’s a bit weird. There is no arrogance: we know we’re good, we know we are a big club, but we know we also have to work hard. There’s a lot of respect for each other, and it’s not only in our team. When we go to the campus and meet the academy boys or some of the other staff, you have the respect. You treat others the way you want to be treated, and that’s a really good value which aligns with my values.”

Now both in their thirties – Eriksson is 30, Harder 31 – they knew the women’s game before its lift-off moments of recent years. Thus, they bring a helpful sense of perspective to any discussion of its development, and how it might evolve in years to come.

If female footballers today have opportunities beyond the dreams of previous generations, they face pressures unknown by their predecessors too, as Eriksson explains. “I think there are two sides to every story. Maybe, when we grew up, there wasn’t that much pressure, but with a growing platform [and how] the women’s game is growing, there is also growing pressure. The fans are growing, social media is growing, so there are two sides to it.

“We can really help the younger generation of today to deal with that kind of pressure, which you have to be able to manage as a footballer,” she adds. “You have to find what you need to focus on and what you should really just shut off and not focus on. You need to find the people that you talk football with and the people’s opinions you shouldn’t care about.”

Harder picks up the thread: “When we were younger, there was only one focus and that was football – to get better and to win. It was just football: that was the thing we played for. Now, there is so much more and, with social media, it’s also about a lot of individual awards, individual recognition, when the focus should be on the team. And I think it’s easier to be distracted [from] having that right focus. That’s something important to think about…”

“And to remind yourself about on a daily basis,” Eriksson cuts in. “And also to spread that within the team – that it’s a team sport and the team wins, the team loses, the team scores, the team concedes. All of those things.”

“Except when Magda scores!” adds Harder with a laugh, teasing her partner over a goal she scored in the week of this interview.

Jokes aside, the pair obviously think a lot about the game, which makes them natural choices to sit on UEFA’s Football Board, the body set up last year to draw on the knowledge of current and former players and elite coaches in the shaping of women’s football. For Eriksson, it’s “inspiring to know you get a direct line to some really big decision-makers”, and the welfare of players – “the football calendar and making football sustainable” – is something both women are keen to highlight.

“We all want a long career, but sometimes if you have to play all the time and have no break, that will shorten it,” says Harder. “Often, we have tournaments in the middle of summer or late summer, so we have four or five weeks before the tournament for our summer holiday, but then we don’t really have that time off because you train to prepare for the World Cup. And then, after the World Cup, [Magda] had ten days and I had two weeks off, and then you just go straight back into it. So, you have to put the tournaments earlier so you have at least four weeks after when you can really, medically, relax and be ready for the new season. Everything else is just too hard mentally and for the body.”

“It was the same last year with the EURO and the amount of injuries we saw after,” says Eriksson, who, ironically, just days after our interview, suffered a metatarsal fracture in her left foot. “Again, [it was] a couple of weeks off for a few, even less for others, and then you are straight back into a high-performance environment where you immediately have to play games. Finding a balance in the calendar where you get the breaks at the right time and don’t have too many games in short spaces of time is the most important thing.

“The fact we are starting now to do research on women’s bodies and women’s players is the first step. With the way we train, the way we train conditioning, everything is based on research on men’s football players, men’s athletes. We don’t know if it’s the same for us. Should we train more or less, or in a different way?”

From Harder comes further food for thought. “When you think about it, we use the same football as the men. It isn’t that I want to change it, but it’s also the same size of pitch and we don’t have the same body; we don’t have the same strength in the muscles. I don’t know the impact from every time I shoot or make a pass, if that’s actually a bigger impact on my muscles than it is on a man’s. That’s something I think it would be quite interesting to look at. I don’t know if it’s something we want to change and have a lighter ball. Maybe it’s just small percentages of how heavy the ball is that could change it.”

“There is rivalry in women’s football, but respect, love and joy always come first”

It’s fascinating to hear this to and fro on the physical side of the game they love, and it’s not the only challenge they see. We talk too about misogyny and what Harder describes as “a mindset of some people who don’t want to change [and see] that women can also play football, women can also be commentating on men’s football, that they also have knowledge about football. They have their mindset and their values about it and it’s really difficult for them to change.”

What is not in question is that women’s football has taken giant steps already in terms of status and recognition. As the commercial opportunities grow, however, neither woman wants to lose the things that make it different from the men’s game. Eriksson recalls the celebratory atmosphere in Australia and New Zealand during the last Women’s World Cup; she cites too the friendly fan dynamics in the club realm.

“We are coming off the back of a fantastic World Cup where there were only positive emotions connected to the games. Of course, some teams win, some teams lose – that’s part of football – but the way the tournament was held and the fan culture, that was amazing. So much positivity, so much joy, and that’s everywhere in women’s football fan culture right at the moment. That is what we want to keep. In women’s football, that rivalry is still there, but the respect, the love and the joy is always what comes first.”

The last word comes from Harder, ever the finisher. “It won’t be easy to keep it like that, but that at least is the aim.”