#friendly voice actor reminder

[cosmicnovaflare]

Sonia from The Legend of Zelda: Tears of The Kingdom.

I unintentionally drew two characters back to back that share the same English voice actor.

[dangan-kagura]

Friendly Reminder: Gundham’s voice actor Chris Tergliafera is a fan of Hifumi. Just watch his stream of the first game to find out.

[weirdlittleberry]

Ten years ago I was commenting Eurovision song contest on Facebook. I'll translate it to you so you can enjoy the madness

1. Gay Dracula fucks hard but is misunderstood

2. San Marino, you ungrateful bastard

3. We should erase Azerbaijan

4. The Greek are wonderful drunk

5. I want an Icelandic god in my bed

6. In Ukraine they have giant vikings

7. The Swiss and the French can, sometimes, be nice

8. In Hamburg a young girl is digging her own grave with her bare hands

9. In order to win we need to be annexed to the ex-URSS

10. People on Tumblr think Mengoni is a sexy beast

[cherry-burst]

Hiya 😊 I'm not sure if you're taking requests but I had an idea for a Zayne one shot, MC and him shower together with him initiating, starts off gentle and eventually gets heated🔥😗😂 I was thinking could even work as a pt. 2 to the Rest Easy fic 🥰 Let me know what you think! 🤗

Hey! Thanks for the ask. And for sure! I like that idea ❤️

Zayne x F!MC “I Owe You”

Love and Deepspace

Smut🔞MDNI | Fingering | Shower Sex | 3.4k Words

AN: This is a companion fic to “Rest Easy” but you do NOT have to have read it to understand or enjoy this one. Cheers!

The sun was setting in the sky as Zayne made his way home. The news on the radio reminded him that there was a possibility of a snowstorm overnight. That didn’t concern him. But, his girlfriend urged him to get home before the snow started to ensure his safety. It was supposed to be a long weekend after all, and the two of them had lots of things planned. She, understandably, didn’t want anything to stand in their way.

When he finally made it home, he removed his coat and scarf and hooked them onto the coat rack. The house was tidy, the curtains were drawn, and the dishwasher was running. He toed off his shoes and called out for her. 

She didn’t respond so he walked farther into the house. She had to be home, her shoes and purse were sitting by the front door. 

“Where are you?” He asked curiously when she didn’t respond. 

Zayne’s footsteps echoed in the hall as he made his way to the bedroom. The sound of the shower made him realize why she hadn’t been responding. The rushing sound of the water would have muffled any noise beyond their bedroom.

Now that he was in the room, he knocked gently on the ajar door. Steam rolled out from the crack as it creaked open from his touch. 

“I’m home.” He spoke into the attached bathroom. 

“Oh!” he heard her voice, jarred by the sudden intrusion. Zayne was amused by how little was needed to startle her. He was sure he could put effort into scaring her and make her scream like an actor in a horror movie that was getting chased if he tried. The shower curtain crinkled, and her head popped out from behind. “Welcome home!” She smiled at him, conditioner sitting on her hair. 

Zayne smiled, removing his watch and glasses and placing them on the nightstand. “I made it back before the snowstorm hit, like you requested.” 

He mentioned this casually, but secretly he wanted the praise for listening to her request. He looked back at her as he untucked his shirt from his slacks. 

“You sure did,” She smiled at him. Her eyes lingered on him for a long moment before she asked, “Would you like to join me?” she said with a flirty quirk of her brow. 

“In fact, I would love to join you.” He agreed immediately, stepping into the steamy bathroom while undoing his tie. His day hadn’t been particularly stressful, but seeing her was always a stark contrast to anything mundane. She lit up his life, she was the color on the page, the light in a dim room. 

She disappeared back into the shower to rinse off. The condensation fogged the mirror as the heated water billowed mist over the top of the shower curtain. The steam made it harder to breathe and caused his hair to stick to his face. 

Zayne unbuttoned his shirt as he walked over a pile of clothes she’d discarded on the floor. Her bra was on top of the pile, and his tie quickly joined it. He shrugged off his shirt and froze when his girlfriend popped her head out again. 

“How was your day?” She asked him, her tone light and friendly as water dripped down her face and hair. She reached beyond the curtain with a wet hand and pressed against his stomach. 

Zayne inhaled at the gentle touch. “Not bad. It hasn’t been as busy lately. I only had three back-to-back patients,” He looked down as her hand continued to move until it reached his slacks. “The rest were spaced out,” He tried to keep his tone even, but when she hooked her fingers into the waistband of his pants and pulled, Zayne’s words faltered. “I had plenty of time to get my reports done before my next appointment.” He finished, his tone dipping lower. 

She pulled until Zayne was inches away from her face. “Oh? That’s good. I’m glad it hasn’t been too stressful for you.” Her gaze drifted down to his torso. “And how was your stitch removal?” 

Zayne angled his body so she could see where the old stab wound from weeks ago had fully healed. The stab wound he’d gotten from a feral patient had healed rather quickly despite its size. The healing process left a pink line on his skin, healing perfectly back into place. 

“It was fine. I did it myself.” He rubbed the scar and then looked up at her. “How was your day?” 

He began to unbutton his slacks, the steam of the shower making him sweat. Now he really wanted to rinse off. 

“It was fine.” She answered just as Zayne began to enter the shower with her. She pressed her lips together as her eyes wandered over his tall frame. “I’m glad it's finally the weekend. I’m ready to spend time with you.” 

Zayne kept his eyes on hers, stepping closer to place his hands on her waist. He hoped the blush he was sporting could be misconstrued for being hot in the humid air the shower caused. 

“I’m ready for that as well. I know we split up the planning to keep things a surprise for one another, but I am rather curious about what you will have us do tomorrow since the snowstorm may make us homebound.” 

He tugged on her waist and his girlfriend swapped places with him under the shower head. Zayne faced the spray of water and ran his fingers through his hair, soaking himself. Hot steam rose off his body, the scalding water making his pale skin tinge pink. 

“I planned some alternate things just in case one of my ideas fell through.” She answered, her hands squeezing water out of her hair. 

Zayne was so lost relishing in the heat of the shower, that he was surprised by a sensation on his back. His girlfriend was rubbing a washcloth over his shoulder blades, soapy suds bubbling over his skin in its wake. 

He let out a small ‘hmph’. “Are you going to wash me?” He said in an amused tone. 

He twisted to look at her but was quickly pushed to turn back around by her smaller hand. His brows rose. 

“Only if you stay still.” She admonished. 

Zayne let her lather up his back with the floral soap, the suds slowly dripping down to his thighs. Her other hand smoothed down his spine, slowly inching down until she was holding his waist, then moving lower. 

Zayne’s heart rate spiked at the touch. He took a deep breath as her hand crept down brushing over his backside. “I see now. You have ulterior motives. And here I thought you just wanted me clean.”

“Of course, I want you clean. That's my only motive.” She responded, her hand running over the curve of his ass. 

“Mhm,” Zayne responds, letting her do as she pleases. He grabs a bottle of shampoo from the ledge, her bottle, and administers a healthy dollop of strawberry scented soap into his hand.

As his girlfriend's hands wander, her fingertips find their way to the pink scar on his side. She runs her digits along the line, his abs flexing with her touch. The sensation caused a gasp to catch in Zayne’s throat. 

She asks “Does it hurt?”

He shakes his head “Just sensitive is all. It's fine” He scrubs his hair with her shampoo, then steps under the water to rinse it out. 

She moves the washcloth over his neck while her hand rests on his side. 

“You know,” He began, his tone dipping as the washcloth carefully ran down his right arm. “I recall a moment when I said I owed you.” 

Her hand paused. That was weeks ago, of course. The two of them had been careful as his wound healed, making sure not to indulge in too many bedroom activities so he could heal quickly. They were also not always home at the same time. It had been a while since they’d been properly intimate and Zayne was keen on taking advantage of that this weekend. Starting now. 

“You don’t owe me anything,” She spoke quietly, the washcloth moving up and down his side. 

Zayne turned to face her, the shower water washing the suds off his back. “Oh, but I do.” 

His fingers slid over her collarbone as he allowed his gaze to lock onto hers. Her pupils dilated under his watch, his hand cupping her cheek to angle her face to meet his. The kiss ignited a deep ache in Zayne, an ache only she could satisfy. He moved to kiss her at a new angle as her hands came up to wrap around him, the washcloth plopping to the bottom of the tub.

She pulls back first, the conditioning treatment in her hair sliding down her forehead. “I need to rinse off…” She was breathless sending a ping of confidence through Zayne. 

They swapped places so she could get the brunt of the shower’s hot water. The wall tiles were dewy with droplets as Zayne helped her rinse the conditioner out of her hair. He squeezed and rang out extra water until it ran clear. 

“Thank you,” She said, rubbing her eyes free of water so she could see. 

Zayne’s lips pressed against her neck as his arms wrapped around her from behind. “You’re very welcome.” His voice was a whisper against her skin. He licked at the warm water droplets on her skin and left heated kisses trailing to her ear. 

His girlfriend took a deep breath as he kissed her neck again, and again. Water flowed down their bodies in rivets. The scent of the mixed soaps on her body flooded his senses. 

His large hand moved up her ribs to run along her chest. She gasped when his fingers grazed her nipple. Zayne’s lips moved from her neck to her shoulder then back again while he teased her sensitive skin with his fingers. He rubbed, pinched lightly, and then squeezed her breast until she was practically panting. Water ran down between her cleavage, slipping past her navel and then lower to where Zayne wanted to go. 

“Z-Zayne.” She gasped as his hand swapped to the other side of her chest. 

His lips curled into a small smile as he kissed the sensitive skin beneath her ear. “Yes?” 

“Mm… more.” She answered. 

“More?” He used both his hands to cup her breasts, teasing both nipples with his fingers. 

She moaned, her head pressing back into his shoulder. Despite all the water and soap, his girlfriend still smelled like herself. It was a deeply comforting scent to Zayne, something he could never truly put his finger on but was uniquely her. She always smelled like it, even after a scrub down in the shower.  

“More, uh,” She tries to correct. “Lower,” her backside presses against his obvious arousal. 

Zayne hums like he’s thinking about it, his fingers still busy with her chest. “Lower?” He asks, his sultry voice right in her ear. “On your stomach?” He teases. 

She nods eagerly. “Yes, and then… lower.” 

“Even lower than your stomach?” He feigns innocence, yet he complies. 

One hand slowly follows the water droplets that rush down her torso. He moves past her navel and dips lower and lower still. His fingers follow the valley of her body. She’s already slick, so his finger easily enters her with zero resistance. 

His movements are slow, exploratory almost, as he dips inside over and over. She parts her legs to give him easier access and Zayne adds a second finger. His lips press against her neck, his teeth tantalizingly scraping the skin. He loved the way his girlfriend easily unraveled for him. Even something as simple as a kiss made her eyes linger on him for just a moment too long, making him very aware of how much he affected her. She affects him too, even when she’s not there thoughts of her flood his mind day in and day out. 

He eases his finger out of her to give her clit unfettered attention. He circles and rubs until she moans for him. Zayne couldn’t help but press himself against her backside, to get some kind of friction as she made noises like that for him. 

“I have a fever,” She says, her hips rocking with the motion of his fingers. 

“Oh?” Zayne plays along. “Why do you say that?” He continues his ministrations.

She gasps, pressing her hips into his hand. “I’ve become so hot.” 

Zayne’s teeth trail along her neck until he whispers in her ear. “It seems I need to examine the patient for signs of overheating.”

She whimpers when his fingers enter her again, two of them rubbing just the right spot to make her legs quake. The water rushed down between them, keeping them both from drying off. Her hand came up, reaching for the back of his head to hold him to her neck. Zayne’s hair dripped onto her collarbone, his lips latching onto the sensitive skin below her ear. 

“Oh fu-... Zayne,” She moans his name so beautifully. 

He breathes heavily, his lips grazing her shoulder. “Nothing abnormal,” He says, his other hand still cupping her breast. “Maybe if I go deeper,” He adds in a sultry whisper. 

He presses his fingers deeper and his girlfriend's knees almost buckle. He keeps her upright squeezing his arms against her while he keeps up his ministrations. 

“Right there,” She rocks her hips in time with his fingers pumping motion. 

“Ah, yes. I see the problem here.” Zayne teases in a low voice.  His girlfriend whimpers as he removes his fingers. “You need something more, is that right?” 

She agrees, “Yes, yes! Something more,” She leans all her weight onto him. 

Zayne gently eases her forward. “Put your hands on the wall,” His voice is oh-so low in her ear. He likes how goosebumps rise on her skin when he does this, even when the heat of the water makes it sweltering. 

His girlfriend places her hands on the wall like he instructed. Zayne’s large hand engulfs her thigh, easing her leg up to rest on the ledge of the tub. His heart hammered away in his chest, his breath coming heavier than before. 

His girlfriend arches her back to give him better access. She peers over her shoulder and is met with a kiss from Zayne. He kisses her languidly, the tip of his cock teasing her entrance. He stands behind her, his body curling around her protectively while he enters slowly. 

She’s wet enough to accommodate him, so Zayne doesn’t stop until he’s all the way in, pushing and rocking until she takes all of him. 

His girlfriend inhales deeply. He's thick, so thick, inside her. When he starts thrusting, so slowly, rocking his whole body into hers, it makes her heart feel like it's falling. The adrenaline pumping through her veins makes her rock back eagerly into his hips. She tries to quicken the pace, but Zayne is determined to keep it achingly slow.   

He holds her with his strong arms, wrapping around her to keep her upright. She tosses her head back, her wet hair pressing against his shoulder. He knows good and well that if he keeps this slow, deep, pace, it’ll make his girlfriend come undone twice as fast. Then, after she’s already come once, he will go faster to make her come again. He remembers the first time they slept together, how many hours it took of them kissing and touching before he ever entered her. The slow exploratory movements made her rush to the finish line so much faster than the other times when he went as quickly as she begged him to go. He always kept this in mind. 

“Zayne,” She moaned his name and he almost lost his composure. 

He buried his face in her neck again, one hand sliding down to press against her clit as he fucks into her. He’s breathless, thrusting into her over and over while her walls flex against him. The water of the shower now flows behind them, pools then rushes past their feet to the drain. The steam from the hot water kept them from freezing. But then again, Zayne never minded the cold. 

She pants, open-mouthed, while her hands slide down the wall. Zayne keeps her steady, seeking that tell-tale sign she's close. Sweat easily pebbles on his brow due to the humid climate and his physical exertion. His lips seek the pulse point on her neck, littering gentle sucks along her neck and ear.

Her head tosses back, pressing into his firm shoulder. It detaches his lips from her and prevents his groans from being muffled. Their mixed sounds echoed off the bathroom tile, growing louder as their mixed pleasure grew to a fever pitch. Zayne pressed his cheek against her wet hair, the scent of her shampoo overwhelming him. He held on to her body with a firm grip while his hips rocked into her again and again.

Her skin was warm in his embrace. Droplets dripped down the bridge of his nose as he sped up his pace. His girlfriend’s hands clawed up the slick tile wall as she warned him, “So.. close. I’m close!”

He kept his quick pace, keeping the perfect angle that was making her tremble in his arms. His hand moved back between her legs, rubbing her clit in quick succession. He knew he found the perfect pace when she started freely moaning his name.

“I won't stop until you ask,” Zayne reassured her, his breathing heavy. Even if his stamina was starting to wane, he’d push his body's limits to make sure she got the climax he’d been working her so hard toward.

He kissed the side of her neck and pressed her clit harder. He couldn’t hold himself back much longer, his thrusting intensified, rocking her whole body. It was the perfect combination to send her over the edge. She arched her back, her hips rocking desperately to meet his. 

Zayne’s breathy moans grew louder as her pussy throbbed against his straining cock. Fuck, that was his favorite feeling. The way her walls tightened and pulsed against him. It was a dizzying sensation that filled him with a sense of accomplishment and pure lust. 

Too bad they were in the shower, Zayne wanted to push her forward and fuck her from behind while her back sloped sensually to the bed. Being confined to the shower at the moment, Zayne conceded to the situation and grabbed her hips. He pulled her into his thrust, the sounds of skin getting louder.

Once her pussy stopped fluttering, Zayne began seeking his own release. He held her tight, his biceps flexing as he squeezed his eyes shut. He had been holding himself off for so long, it was hard to relax and let his body find the release it craved.

His girlfriend, after having caught her breath, picked up on the fact that he was close. 

“Do you want to cum inside me?” She asked, her voice sultry. 

Zayne's stomach flipped at her words. “Yes,” He answers immediately. “Yes, Hh-” He moans into her ear. 

“I want you to…” She reached her hand back, dragging her nails through his wet locks. “I want you to cum inside me, Zayne. Please.”

Zayne groans, his thrusting becoming erratic. “I want,” He pants, “I want to-” he’s out of breath but his climax is imminent. “-to cum inside you.”

“I want it,” She moans, pressing her ass back against his thrusting. 

He curses, a rare occurrence for him, before his pleasure comes to a head. He closes his eyes, his hands gripping her body so tight while his cock throbs inside her. He’s still while his girlfriend rocks back into him prolonging his pleasure. Zayne holds his breath while waves of pleasure wash over him.

“Come on,” His girlfriend eggs him on. “That’s it.”

He finally takes a deep inhale as the most intense part of his orgasm subsides. It still feels so good inside her, though. He stays like this, his larger form curled around her in the hot shower while his cum seeps out and drips down her thighs.

He takes deep breaths while her fingers rub the back of his head. 

“I still owe you, technically.” He finally manages to speak. “I want to focus on just you.”

“Well,” She soothes him with her nails scratching gently over his scalp. “We have a nice long weekend to keep owing one another.”

[hummingbird-games]

2024 in Review (Indie Games)

2023 | 2022 | 2021

Helloooo gamer friends!!!

I'm so tired.

Lol.

Anyhoo, y'all don't care about that!!! Y'all are here to see what games I played and what the heck I have to say about them! Reminders: I don't bash games I didn't like, and I try to post more in-depth thoughts and reviews and general yapping to Gem's Game Gems.

DEMOS

When Stars Collide - I am by no means a sci-fi girlie. I need a HEAPING dose of fantasy or fantasy elements to help me out. That said, y'all might remember how I went feral for Gilded Shadows, so I am locked in for this journey with WSC. It's just as mysterious and lore intense as GS, but also just as intriguing and engaging!

Love Me, Love Me Not - I looooove when a game charms me to pieces??? Our MC Addie, the introduced LIs, the story, the art??? Where do I begin?? Anyway, please check this one out y'all! I'm impatient for the full game (shocker, I know).

Threads of You: Beyond the Bay - So my thoughts and reactions for this one are on the side blog, but I really enjoyed the demo and I have eyes for Chris, Vince, and Alex hehehe.

Lost in Limbo - While I'd been keeping tabs on this game for what seems forever because of the character art that originally caught my attention, I almost didn't finish the demo because it was lowkey disturbing (I'm a wimp and not all horror is made equal). But!!! BUT!!!! I push through to the end, had a good time, noted that I need to play the full game in the daylight with the music turned down low. And I absolutely adore Ara and Xal so, so much.

A Simple Twist of Fae - Absolutely no one cares, but I read a lot of manga this year. Like, a lot-a lot. Like, ~180 books and 1/3 of that was manga. Anyhoo, When JMB announced she was cooking up this game, I was impatient to get my grubby hands on it. AND THEN I PLAYED IT AND IT WAS THE SHOJO INSPIRED GAME OF MY DREAMS?!?! Like.....I wish I could both have it on my computer and also on my bookshelf. Final build dropping when??? (Also the UI design is utterly delightful, I cry.)

The Summit Library (FULL DEMO) - The last time I reviewed this game, we got chapter 1 as a taste, and I was. Locked! In!! The full demo gives us the first 2 chapters as well as the previews for all the romance routes and while giving everyone a whirl I'm *still* undecided on who to go for in the future, I must mention this: TSL is so aspec friendly???? I do love a game with smut, don't get me wrong looks at College Craze but sometimes I have my moments of being overwhelmed/sliiiiiiightly repulsed and the variety of options you have to choose how you react and interact with the various LIs in this game is amazing. (I have more thoughts on this, so I'll try to remember to post to the sideblog, but please understand that this game is totally worth your attention and time imo!!!)

Fully Released & Played (at least 1 playthrough)

Rabbit Trail - This. Game. Is. SO. Cute. *punches the air* 😭🥹(Copy + paste of my review on the itch.io page -> This was so charming, so fluffy, so cozy, just delightful all around??? I've only reached one ending so far, but René is just the cutest protag to play as, and his interactions as he delivers his mail made me cheese so dang hard! (Also, I wanted to fight his parents for not properly appreciating their kid LOL))

Stuck by Design - I checked this game out because I was looking into games that fellow programmers had worked on, and this cozy game stumbled onto my lap. The music was perfect, the UI is beautiful and clean, and I thoroughly enjoyed the performance of the VA for the LI, Yuki.

Wake Me Up If You Need Me - I called this game older!HSDJY MC x Ryan coded and I'm still right. The voice actor MAKES this game, and the interactions the player has with Reed is so flippin' delightful?? All my love and adoration to the game developer. May they make more beautiful games.

CTRL FREAK - The developer team brought us The Faithfulness of the Universe which is a banger in its own right, and CTRL FREAK is the team's commercial, finished project that I also found delightful. The soundtrack and the animations are chef's kiss 💛

Breathless Winds - Ooo, baby, ooo. So. If there is only one game you play from this list and you have some spare cash to spend (at the time of writing, the game is on sale!!!) please, please, check this one out. It left me absolutely spellbound, both the orginal demo, and then the full game. While I didn't get to blog fully about this one, and I only tackled 2 of the 4 routes, this game is absolutely everything. This is my indie game of the year. Poppy and her journey resonated with me, and between the music and the art, everything just came together so perfectly.

Wake Up Magical Girl - Listen TF up, if miseri creates it, I'm gonna play it, idc, idc. That being said...this game had a kick to it that when I finished my first playthrough, I had to stare off into space and gather myself. It takes the concept of magical girls and heroism and gave me a teeny tiny existential crisis, but other than that, I'm fine, it's fine, play this game, thank you.

Sleeping Under Spells - God, I love me a game where I get to argue with a LI. I love it. Bonus points if it's lowkey stupid stuff we're bickering over LOL!!

Our Wonderland - Yeah, uh huh, you thought you'd escape me talking about this game this year, didn't yah???? Too bad. The fifth and final arc dropped this year and I played it and I cried and felt for the briefest moments that life was okay. To say something different than my review of last year, I love that this seems to be the game that helps fellow ace devs find and flock to each other, I'm not kidding 🤣 so thank you Carrot for helping us fellow aspec peeps feel seen and validated and understood!

I Watched a Full Game Playthrough and Highly Recommend

Replay Boys - Okay so technically at the time of posting, there's still one more video I'm waiting to watch (Naja of BlerdyOtome uploaded her stream to YouTube) but my Godddddd. I've had my eye on this game for FOREVER but I was lowkey waiting for it to move to itch.io (I'm still a lowkey Steam hater 🥹) anyhoo, watching this absolutely wild game made me go ahead and buy a copy for myself to replay at a later time, but it's just great. The summary only scratches this surface of what the game entails 🤣

Gemi’s Gushies

(a list within a list of games that have devs trucking along in the background and I want to spotlight for y’all)

Save the Villainess - Life got away with me and unfortunately I never finished my play of the demo BUT what I have played was fun and I hope to return to this in the new year!

Woman of Xal 2 - Plot Twist Studios is on that Sequel Train with the next installment of WoX!!! Which I'm VERY excited for!!! I've unfortunately only completed one playthrough of this game, but the first game is definitely a masterclass in replayability, and I hope next year I'll be able to do a second playthough as I wait for game 2's Kickstarter!

...

And that's 2024! Any shared favorites?

- Gemini 🫶🏾

[alittlegiraffe]

Title: 5 Times You Accidentally Made Marshall Jealous (and 1 Time You Did It on Purpose)

1. The Barista Incident

You’d been at your favorite coffee shop, picking up drinks before heading to the studio to meet Marshall. The barista, a tall, good-looking guy with a bright smile, leaned a little too far over the counter as he handed you your latte.

“This one’s on the house,” he said with a wink. “For the prettiest customer we’ve had all day.”

You blinked, caught off guard. “Uh, thanks?”

You were still processing the interaction when you walked into the studio, handing Marshall his drink.

“What took so long?” he asked, eyeing you.

“Oh, nothing,” you said, shrugging. “The barista just… gave me my coffee for free.”

His head snapped up. “He what?”

You explained the encounter, trying to laugh it off, but Marshall’s jaw tightened.

“Guess I’ll be getting your coffee from now on,” he muttered, pulling you into his lap and wrapping an arm possessively around your waist. “Don’t need some random dude thinking he’s got a shot.”

2. The Gym Trainer

You’d recently started going to the gym, and Marshall insisted you get a trainer to help you with your workouts. What he hadn’t anticipated was how much you’d get along with said trainer.

One day, you came home excited, talking about how your trainer had shown you a new technique to help with squats.

“Wait,” Marshall said, narrowing his eyes. “He was showing you *how* to squat?”

“Yeah,” you said, oblivious to the warning in his tone. “He said my form was off.”

Marshall set his phone down, giving you his full attention. “How close was he standing?”

“Close enough to correct my form, I guess.”

The next day, Marshall showed up at the gym unannounced, watching like a hawk as your trainer worked with you. After that, he insisted on being your “new trainer.”

3. The Actor at the Party

You and Marshall had gone to a party hosted by one of his industry friends. You’d been talking to an actor you admired, gushing about one of his recent performances.

Marshall walked up just in time to hear the actor say, “If you ever want a private acting lesson, let me know.”

“Oh, that’s sweet, but—” you started, only for Marshall to slide an arm around your waist, pulling you into his side.

“She’s good,” he interrupted, his voice sharp. “She’s already got everything she needs.”

The actor looked surprised but quickly excused himself.

“Subtle,” you said, raising an eyebrow.

Marshall smirked. “Just making sure he knows you’re spoken for.”

4. The Friendly Neighbor

Your new neighbor had been overly friendly since the day he moved in, always stopping to chat when you were outside. One evening, he came over while Marshall was in the garage, offering to help you carry some boxes.

“Need a hand?” he asked, flashing a charming smile.

“No, I’m good, thanks,” you said, but before you could finish, Marshall appeared.

“She doesn’t need help,” he said, his tone clipped. “I’ve got it.”

The neighbor quickly retreated, and Marshall pulled you into the house.

“Friendly guy,” you teased.

“Too friendly,” he muttered.

5. The Studio Assistant

Marshall’s new studio assistant was polite and professional, but you could tell he was a little starstruck by you. He complimented your outfit one day, and you smiled, thanking him.

Marshall, however, didn’t take it so lightly.

“Does he always talk to you like that?” he asked later, his tone laced with annoyance.

“Like what?” you asked, genuinely confused.

“Like he’s auditioning to be your boyfriend,” he said, pulling you close. “Maybe I need to remind him who you belong to.”

+1: The Time You Did It on Purpose

You didn’t *mean* to enjoy how possessive Marshall could get, but there was something undeniably thrilling about the way he claimed you when he felt even the slightest hint of competition.

One evening, you decided to test it. You wore a dress you knew Marshall loved, one that hugged your curves perfectly, and spent a little extra time on your makeup. When you arrived at the studio with dinner for him, you made a point to be extra friendly to the guys in the room, laughing at their jokes and lightly touching their arms as you spoke.

It didn’t take long for Marshall to notice.

“Babe,” he called, his tone firm. “Come here.”

You walked over, feigning innocence. “What’s up?”

He didn’t say a word, just grabbed your hand and led you to a private room. Once inside, he pressed you against the wall, his hands on either side of your head.

“You think I didn’t notice what you were doing out there?” he asked, his voice low and dangerous.

“I don’t know what you mean,” you said, though your smirk gave you away.

His eyes darkened, and he leaned in, his lips brushing against your ear. “You’re playing a dangerous game, baby.”

“Maybe I like the way you play,” you whispered back.

His mouth captured yours in a heated kiss, and you knew you’d gotten exactly what you wanted.

“You’re mine,” he growled against your lips, his hands gripping your waist. “Don’t ever forget it.”

“Never,” you promised, your heart racing as he kissed you again, leaving no doubt in your mind—or anyone else’s—about who you belonged to.

[she-wolf09231982]

Joe Toye

“The Bunny and The Fox”

Summary: You thought Joe Toye was too scary to even consider a friend, but he proves to be not only a great friend, but also a lover.

A/N: One shot, Mature audience, JoeToyeX!FemMedic, WW2, Female Pronouns, Cursing/Swearing, Derogatory Slurs, Womanizing Comments, Military and Medical Terminology, Inappropriate Nicknames, HBO Band of Brothers References, Mentions/Descriptions of Injuries, Weaponry, Smoking. Angst/Conflict, Smut, *John Wayne/McClintock Movie Quote*, FOREVER FLUFF

@awaterfalls 😁🪖♠️🦅❤️

These stories may not fall entirely in accordance with the TV series timeline. I do not know the real soldiers the actors portray in this series, so please understand I show no disrespect. Some or most of historical events and character interactions in my fanfics are fabricated purely for the sake of the enjoyment of fiction*

~~~~~~~

He always appeared so….serious. His face in a constant state of pissed off and disdain. If looks could kill, Joe Toye (and Johnny Martin) wouldn’t have needed weapons in the war.

You avoided him all through Toccoa. He just seemed like the type to leave the hell alone. But every now and then, you caught a glimpse of him smiling or laughing with the guys.

“Not bad.” You’d think to yourself as you admired his smile.

Since you trained with Easy as a medic, you rarely had an excuse to speak to him unless he was injured. Even then you kept your conversation short and sweet with hardly any eye contact. But with his low raspy voice came a sense of calm while you took care of him. You supposed he seemed friendly enough.

~~~~~~

June 1944 Post D-Day

Orders were given to take Carentan where German soldiers were being sheltered. Carentan was the main crossroad between Cotentin and Calvados where the ally force's tanks needed passage to attack the main objective, Cherbourg.

"Listen up!" LT Welsh shouted. "It'll be dark soon. I want light and noise discipline from here on. No talking, no smoking. And no playing grab-fanny with the man in front of you, Luz. We're taking Carentan. It's the only place where armor from Omaha and Utah Beach can link up and head inland. Until we take Carentan, they're stuck on the sand. General Taylor's sending the whole division."

Some of the men began to grumble under their breath. Everyone started to stir to gather their gear to begin the journey to Carentan.

Walking in a file formation on each side of the road to Carentan. You found yourself walking in front of Toye as Perconte proceeded you.

“Hey Toye, why you always in the middle when we convoy anywhere? Ain’t you ever in the front?” Guarnere teased.

“I go wherever the medic goes in case I get hit, Bill.” Joe responded.

You blushed and dared to sneak a glance behind you. As you did, Toye met your gaze shooting you a quick wink. You quickly look back to the front embarrassed he caught you acknowledging him.

“Awe now look what ya did. You scared her.” Guarnere teased.

You hear some of the guys laugh.

“Maintain your noise discipline.” Winters reminded.

~~~~~~~

"MEDIC!!"

You and Doc on separate ends of the streets trying to keep low to tend to the wounded.

You rush to two soldiers landing on your knees next to them, one on the ground with a trail of blood coming from his helmet, the other crouching over him.

"He's still breathing, help me carry him!" You call out. You each grab an arm of the injured soldier and drag him behind a building.

While you're working on the nameless soldier's head wound, a drug store gets blasted by German artillery not far from where you were, the force from the explosion sending you sideways into the brick wall next to you.

You shake your head to stop the ringing in your ears. Everything you could hear was distant as your vision became fuzzy and dark. You start to smack your ear trying to make it pop so you can get back to your senses.

“Y/L/N! We gotta move! Get up!” Toye’s muffled voice yelled out.

He grabbed you by the arm pulling you up to your feet. You still couldn’t barely see so you held onto his arms for dear life.

“I-I can’t see nothin’ Joe!” You called out to him.

“Ok, come on…UP we go!” You hear him grunt as he threw you over his shoulder.

You feel him trotting to safety while blast after blast erupted all around you. You feel him lower you as gently as he could to the ground against a wall.

“Hey, look at me.” Toye said as he guided your face towards his, “Can you see me now?”

You shake your head, “No, it’s all dark and blurry.” You reply as tears started to stream down your cheeks.

Were you going blind?? Is this it? You’re not going to be able to see your family’s faces? Never see your own reflection? You feel yourself slipping into shock.

“Hey! Stay with me now, ok doll? Don’t cry. Doc’s on his way.” You hear Toye’s voice break through your thoughts.

Doc ducked behind the wall with you and Toye.

“What’s the matta’ with her?” You hear Gene ask.

“She can’t see. Says everything is blurry.”

“Gene, I think I’m going blind. Am I going blind??” You asked panicked trying to reach out for him.

“What happened before she couldn’t see?”

“A shell dropped right by her and she went flying into a brick wall.”

Gene nodded, “That’ll do it. You got a concussion, Y/L/N, you ain’t goin’ blind.”

You released a sigh of relief.

“Joe, can you get her back to HQ? She ain’t no good out here if she can’t see nothin’.”

“I got her, Doc.”

~~~~~~~

Toye got you back to an aid station not long after Easy Company claimed victory over Carentan. You remained there until the following day after your vision returned. As you approached a group of the guys from Easy, you were welcomed with whoops and cheers.

“Hey! Look who it is!” Luz called out.

All the guys turned to find you walking towards them.

“Hey look what the cat dragged in!” Malarkey joked.

The chorus of laughter from the men lifted your spirits.

“Yeah, I look rough, I know. Thanks guys.” You greet.

You looked around for Toye.

“He’s over there.” Luz pointed out as he gestured with is thumb over his shoulder.

“Oh, I just, uh, wanted to thank him for-“ you began.

“-yeah, yeah we know. He’s over there.” Malarkey interjected pointing down the street.

You feel yourself get flustered so you scamper off to where they said Joe was. As you walk through the rubble that Carentan has become, you see Toye standing in a circle with a few of the other guys from Easy. He throws his cigarette butt on the ground, stomping it out with his boot before he turns and sees you.

His face lights up when he saw you walking up.

“Hey there she is!” Guarnere hailed.

Bill met you and extended his hand for you to shake, which you obliged.

“Good to see you, Bill.”

“Glad to see you up and about, doll.” He pulled you in closer, “Someone’s been real worried about you since they left you at the aid station, by the way.” He disclosed.

You pull back and met Bill’s face with confusion. He winked and motioned over to Toye with his chin.

“Go on and say hi to him.” Bill added.

You narrow your eyes at him and smile. You slowly approach Toye as he stood there with his hands in his pockets and smirking as he patiently waited for you.

“Hey, Toye.” You squeak.

“Hey, Y/L/N. Good to see you.” He replied with his signature husky voice.

“Well, if it weren’t for you, I probably wouldn’t be here. Thank you for helping me.” You say as you leaned in and kissed him on the cheek.

You hear Guarnere whistle. You turn around and shake your head at him.

Toye cleared his throat, “It was nothin’.”

You both stood there awkwardly until Bill came over.

“Hey, the guys were going to go to the bar that survived the wreck. You wanna join us later for a few night caps, Y/L/N?”

“Sure, if I can find a place to get cleaned up.”

“Ok it’s that little place over there. We’ll all be there around 1900, aight?”

You knew Bill was scheming something for you and Toye. You look at him suspiciously.

“Ok, I’ll see you guys there later.”

~~~~~~~

You breeze through the front door of the pub and begin scanning the room for the familiar faces of Easy.

“Hey! Y/F/N! Over here!” Guarnere called out waving his hand.

You push through the crowd to get to the table where most of your guys were sitting. You catch Toye playing darts with LT Compton, Luz, and Heffron.

“What can I getchya?” Bill asked.

“Oh, whatever you’re drinking, Bill.” You reply.

“Comin’ right up.” He announced as he walked to the bar.

You look back to Toye and catch his eyes looking at you too. He smiled and raised his glass to you with a wink. You smile back and give him a little wave.

“Here ya go.” Bill returned handing you a pint glass of beer.

You cheers and take a hearty gulp.

“Thanks, Bill.” You say as you squeeze his arm.

~~~~~~~

The night was filled with laughter, banter, and taunts amongst Easy. And somehow, your glass kept getting magically refilled by each of the guys. You had to refuse Malarkey’s offer to buy your next round because you felt your head starting to spin.

“Ok, we’ll slow down.” Don chuckled, “But when you’re ready, I got the next one!”

“Yessir.” You quipped.

You turn towards the dart boards and see that Toye had moved. You began to search the room for him and suddenly stop at the bar where he was talking to a local woman dressed in a tightly fit dress.

You felt a distinct sense of dread mixed with anger, but you weren’t sure why. The longer you watched Toye leaning closer to whisper in her ear while she giggled, the more your rage boiled over inside.

“What’s the matter, doll? You gotta look on ya like you’re gonna murder someone.” You hear Guarnere chime in.

You avert your eyes to the floor.

“It’s nothing.” You say quickly.

Bill looked where you were just looking.

“Well ain’t that a son of a bitch. After all the trouble I went through to set you’s guys up, he goes and finds another bird to chat up.”

You look at Bill, “What do you mean set us up?”

Bill looked at you alarmed.

“Oh, well, I thought you knew. Toye over there has got it real bad for ya. Has ever since basic but he figured he never had a chance. I told him you were a catch and that you had a thing for him too.”

“Oh do I now?” You asked astounded by his response.

“Well, don’tchya?”

“I suppose he’s handsome. Good soldier. But looks like he’s not as sweet on me as you think.” You state as you gesture to Toye by the bar getting disgustingly close to the blonde bombshell.

“Ah, he’s an idiot. He’s just trying to get laid.”

You look at him with daggers behind your eyes. Bill’s eyes widen.

“Uh, what I mean is he don’t care about her, ya know? He’s trying to not think about you because he thinks you’re outta his league.” Bill hastily explained.

“Yeah? Well, I’ll get his attention.” You declare as you storm off towards the bar.

“Ah shit.” Bill mumbled to himself rolling his eyes.

You walk up to a soldier from Fox Company standing a few feet away from where Toye was with his new little friend. You approach the bar and slightly bend over to the surface of the bar and rest your elbows on it. The soldier noticed you right away and a devilish grin appeared across his face.

You look over at him and smile.

“Hey, angel, you’re the prettiest face in here.” He said as he scanned you from head to toe.

You see Toye look over the blonde’s shoulder at you. So you inched closer to the stranger.

“At least someone noticed how hard I worked on my make up tonight.” You say loud enough for Joe to hear.

Toye’s jaw started to tighten. Your plan was working like a charm.

“What are you talkin’ about? You’re a dish!” He returned enthusiastically, “Can I get you a drink?”

“A pint is fine.”

Toye excused himself from the company of his little vixen and approached you with obvious vigor. He stopped so close to you, you can feel his breath on your face.

“You think you should have anymore?” Toye asked in a low gravelly tone.

You were almost a puddle at his feet.

“What’s one more?” You dismiss.

“Hey, buddy, this one’s mine. Get lost.” The Fox soldier warned.

Toye glared at him, a clear warning with his fierce gaze to back off. “Shut up.”

He turned back to you. “You hit your head hard yesterday. You got a concussion, remember? Drinking too much isn’t good for you right now.” He cautioned.

The soldier behind Toye huffed outloud. You bring your face closer to his.

“How about you go on back to your little blonde bunny over there and worry about her?” You say softly staring intensely into his eyes.

You snidely smile and gently push him aside to accept the beer the Fox soldier was holding for you. Toye grabbed your wrist before you could get your fingers around the glass.

“Because I’m worried about you.” He sternly replied.

“Hey, pal, I’m not gonna tell ya-“

Before the guy could finish his sentence, Toye swung and punched him across the face sending him to the ground like a sack of potatoes.

“Joe, what the hell is the matter with you?” You bark.

He turned to face you, his teeth clenched and resentment in his eyes.

“Isn’t this what you wanted? You got my attention.” He said raising his arms to the side.

Just then, another Fox Company soldier soared in and tackled Toye. When Guarnere saw Toye get sacked, him and the rest of Easy rushed in, clashing with Fox Company in a battle royalé in the middle of the dance floor.

You grab a bottle of whiskey and force your way into the horde to smash it over the head of one of the opposing soldiers when you suddenly feel your feet swiftly leave the floor, and you find yourself once again thrown over Joe Toye’s shoulder as he rushes out the front door.

You start to push off of his back to look at him.

“What are you doing?? Put me down, NOW! This is completely barbaric! Were you raised by wolves??”

“Shut your mouth.” Toye said sharply.

He wouldn’t cave no matter how hard you struggled. He continued to carry you until he got to the house where you had been staying at with the field nurses. He opened the front door and practically threw you onto the couch in the main corridor.

“You’re an absolute animal, Joe Toye.” You snarled at him.

“Yeah? You haven’t even seen the worst of it yet.” He retorted.

You stood up, only to lose your balance and fell backward on to the couch again.

“Well save it.” You spit back crossing your arms, “You can go now. I’m sure that little dish at the bar is waiting on you.”

Toye furrowed his eyebrows at you, “You’re the only one even thinking about her. I haven’t even given her a second thought since you walked through the door of that place!”

You scoff, “Sure, Joe. Didn’t seem like it when your hands were all over her like a magnet.” You pointed out as you stood up slowly.

“Yeah?” He queried as he closed the gap between the two of you, “You mean like this?”

He roughly grabbed you by the waist and kneaded your hips with his strong calloused hands as he pulled you into him. Your faces so close, you thought he was going to kiss you, but he only hovered over your mouth. You were a deer in the headlights, your words caught in your throat somewhere. You almost forgot to take breath when you started to feel faint, so you took in a deep breath through your nose to recover.

You put your hands on his chest and started to push away.

“What are you doing, Toye?” You manage to say.

He jerked you back into him, slithering his one hand across the small of your back while the other one firmly caressed the swell of your ass. You tried to protest, but your voice betrayed you only allowing a whimper to escape from your throat. This man had you a melting hot mess in his arms and it only made you angrier that he was getting you flustered.

“What? Got nothin’ snarky to say now, sweetheart?” He teased.

The fire inside you began to rise, and you weren’t sure if it was because you were turned on, or pissed off.

“I hate you.” You sneered as you slipped out of his grasp and headed for the staircase.

Before you could lift your foot to take the first step, you feel yourself twirled back around and face to face with Toye in his arms.

*“Half of the people in the world are women…Why does it have to be you that stirs me?”* He growled before grabbing the back of your head to bring your mouth to his.

You wanted to fight back and push away again, but your body fought you, leaning into his body and fisting his uniform jacket to pull him as close as possible to you. You part your lips to allow his tongue to pass and explore yours. You playfully nip at his bottom lip eliciting a deep guttural groan from him. His hands scoured your body as his hips instinctively pushed his hard on against you. You dig your nails into his shoulders as you moan into his mouth.

You pull back, “Let’s take this upstairs.”

Toye only replied with a mischievous grin, then picked you up bridal style to carry you up the stairs. When you direct him to your room, he set you down to secure the door. Right at the moment he turned around, you forced him against the door and hungrily kiss him while unraveling his tie.

He grabbed you by the shoulders swinging you around pinning you against the door with a ‘thud’ then placed his hand around your throat. He tightened his grip enough to make a point he was in charge, but not hard enough to alarm you. You instinctively grab his wrist with both hands as you clenched your thighs together, hoping to get some friction against your core and to prevent the wetness from dripping down your leg.

You hissed through your teeth as a smile stretched across your face. Toye pressed himself harder against you, the bulge in his pants grinding into your pelvis. You slide one hand away from his wrist gradually finding your way to his belt buckle. His fingers around your neck increased their grip.

You ran your tongue along your lower lip. He looks from your eyes to your mouth as a smirk tugs at the corner of his mouth. He suddenly scooped you up from behind your thighs wrapping your legs around his waist and carried you over to the bed, dropping you on your back onto the mattress.

He removed his tie, then with one hand unbuckled his belt all the while staring at you like a starved wolf about to pounce on his prey. You scoot to the edge of the bed and start to unbutton your uniform top. He situated himself between your spread knees at the edge of the bed.

You look up at him through your lashes and smile as you start to work on removing his pants. Your top partially open with your cleavage peaking through, he fisted the front with both hands and yanked the blouse off your shoulders. You wiggle out of the shirt and drop his pants and briefs as he removed his uniform top.

Now you were both ravenous for eachother just yanking off articles of clothing and throwing them carelessly onto the floor. Finally when he slid your panties off, a devilish grin graced his face when he saw how wet you were for him.

He looked at you roguishly as he glided two of his fingers up and down your drenched slit.

“Is this all from me?” His gruff honeyed voice had you melting in his hand.

You nod without breaking eye contact. He crawled over you, caging you in between his brawny arms. As his hardened dick rested on top of your center, he started to grind into you, coating the tip of his cock with your slick between your folds.

You couldn’t help but arch your back, rhythmically moving your hips with his to feel him rub against your clit. Your needy sighs spurred him on, knowing he was making you feel so good.

“Oh my God, Toye-“

“No. No more ‘Toye.’ I want to hear you say my name.” He commanded.

You stare at him.

“Fucking say it.” He ordered.

“Joe…” you breathed as you playfully nip at his lower lip, greedily locking onto his mouth.

He lifted you by the ass and pushed his length through your dripping entrance with one fleeting thrust forward.

You gasp then wrap your legs around his waist, waiting for the ride to begin. Joe unleashed over a year’s worth of pent up rage and frustration from the war onto you, railing into you in almost a deliciously painful pace. He was rough, and aggressive, yet attentive and sensual.

He sat up resting on his heels and angled you closer into him by hugging your thighs against him and driving into you, hitting that spot that had you edging to your finish.

He feels your walls constricting around his cock, and starts to slow his tempo. You look at him with a pout.

All you could manage was a strained, “Why?”

He pulled out and hastily flipped you onto your hands and knees. He reached around your front under your arms once again grabbing your throat with his perfect hand. He pulls you back until your back was flush with his chest.

He guided the back of your head to rest on his shoulder before he turned to your ear.

“You think that fucking Fox Company chump could’ve done this for you?” He hissed.

You feel his grip constricting your neck. You’re so fucked out you can’t help but laugh.

“Fucking answer me, sweetheart. You think that asshole’s got anything on me?” His voice rumbling in your ear like thunder.

You start to pant, your bare chest and peaked nipples heaving from overstimulation and restriction of oxygen.

“No, Joe. Never.” You huffed.

You feel his lips curl into a smile against your jawline. He nipped at your ear.

“That’s right, baby.” He purred before he thrusted you forward on all fours.

He lined his dick up with your slippery pussy and entered you with a sweet push forward until he bottomed out. He plummeted into you, spanking you occasionally while his hips slammed into you.

“My God, Joe.” You moaned pushing back into him so he can get inside you as deep as possible.

“Yeah, scream my name so all Fox Company can hear.”

He had a vice grip on your waist, guiding you back everytime his hips came forward. The slams of his front against your ass grew steadily louder with groans and grunts between the two of you.

His stride began to stagger, and you could feel him pulsate inside you.

“I’m getting close, sweetheart.” You hear his low rugged voice from behind you.

“Me too, Joe.”

“I know, I can feel you squeezing on me. Let go, baby.” He hummed.

He reached around finding your clit and began rubbing hard circles onto the bud.

You close your eyes and focus on the sensation of where his hands were and the throbbing of his cock inside you then hearing his voice roar,

“Come on, baby, let go for me.”

He chased your orgasm until he felt your walls fluttering around his cock. You throw your head back practically howling as ropes of Joe’s cum released over and over again inside you. A guttural grunt left Joe’s lips as he groped your ass to have something to hold onto to steady himself.

Sweat glistened on his chiseled torso while he caught his breath. He snatched the hand towel by the basin next to the bed to clean you up after he pulled out. He plopped onto the bed next to you, pulling you into him to hold you.

You each sigh, content and relaxed in eachother’s afterglow.

“Your little bunny friend is going to be heart broken.” You joke.

Joe chuckled, “Yeah, I have that effect on people.”

You giggled.

“I got my girl right here.” He added.

Joe looked down adoringly at you with your head on his shoulder, sensing his eyes were on you, you look up at him. He gently kissed your lips, then rubbed his nose on the tip of yours.

~~~~~~~

[eternalera]

friendly reminder that if anyone says, shipping jayvik is 'weird' because youre 'sexualizing' them just because theyre two men, that the OFFICIAL league of legends account commented on a jayvik post saying that they support it.

also jayce's voice actor literally supports it <3

[nebulo-philiac]

Friendly reminder that creators aren't responsible for what the viewer does, viewers affected by what's happening onscreen if they care about the characters. but that shouldn't lead to them harrassing the voice actors <3

If you can't grasp this then your extremely r#tarded, hope this helps!!

[theoriginalkaminari]

Friendly reminder that they share the same english voice actor

[cheynovak]

Happy ever after?  

Sequel to: Another, other Cinderella story.

Soldier Boy x Reader (Y/N)  

Warnings: Angst, Smut, 18+, Alcohol, Soft dominance, ...   

Side note: English isn’t my first language.   

Words:  7286

*Does not follow The Boys storyline!* 

If you liked this, please check out my masterlist for other stories.

--------------------------------- 

Y/N is the rebellious daughter of a famous actor in the 1960. Her dad wants to keep her out of the public eye, since he cheated on his wife with her mother. All she wants to do is leave, have fun and start a life of her own. On one of her father’s parties, she meets Soldier Boy, who despite his reputation falls for the young girl. She is mesmerised by him, but how long can he hold the little rebel from discovering the world?  

--------------------------------- 

Y/N woke up from the sunlight on her face. She turned around to feel her bed already empty and cold. Which unfortunately wasn’t a surprise anymore, he hasn’t been home for weeks.  Ben got more and more tasks, missions and projects since Vought knew about them.  

And even though he did manage to give her a nice condo, she did miss the action and fun she used to have in her old life. The last couple of months became clear he wanted her for himself, a nice woman to come home to. But deep down she knew that isn’t who she really is.  

Her dreams were to travel the world, see beautiful nature, cities that come to life at night, enjoy different cultures. She hoped Ben would be the same, but his red, white and blue blood thought there was nothing better than the USA. Why would one want to travel to let’s say Europe.  

But for now, she was content. 

Y/N got up and did her daily morning routine, she threw on one of Ben’s old shirts, she loved the fact it smelled like him, tobacco, vanilla and some other spices. She walked in the kitchen and made a fresh pot of coffee, while loading the washing machine, she would take a quick shower. Ready to start the day fresh.  

She lifted his shirt over her head and looked in the mirror, noticing a pretty big bruise on her hip. Y/N’s finger mover over the spot when realising Ben got a little too excited the last night they had spent, before him leaving. Maybe time to remind Ben again she is not a supe. Although the night itself she didn’t mind his roughness.  

While the hot water was streaming over her slightly sore body, her mind started to drift away to all the placed she once read about. Hoping that one day Ben would agree to come along with her. But for now, it stays with daydreaming.  

After breakfast Y/N went into town, trying to get her mind off of the fact that Ben was gone for a while to shoot a documentary on his life. And she was, once again, left to herself to enjoy life. Unconsciously she walked towards the travel agency.  

She stopped in front of the store, looked through the window. Asia, Europe, Africa, ... before she knew it, she stepped inside. It took almost an entire afternoon, the shop assistant was very friendly and helped her pick out 3 trips worth seeing.  

With books and information under her arm she walked back to the condo when she heard a familiar voice. “Y/N?” She turned around seeing the twins, Anna and Sara, she once befriended in school. “Oh my...Hi! How are you guys?” She hugged them.  

Y/N invited the girls over to her apartment for a cup of coffee. It had been almost 9 months since graduation. “Wow, girl you really did good for yourself.” Sara said looking around in the pretty big place. “It’s all from Ben, to be honest.” Y/N said while emptying her bags on the counter.  

“You really went through with that didn’t you?” Anna asked curiously. “We both thought it was just another one of your casual hook ups.” Y/N blushed hearing that. Answering, “Turns out he has something worth sticking around for.” -” Clearly.” They both said at the same time.  

The afternoon coffee turned into late night wines and take out Chinese food. Y/N never really thought often about her old life, but this lovely evening made her homesick, thinking about the fun times she was around her friends.  

Anna, Sara and Y/N agreed to see each other in the morning for breakfast and a shopping day. Just to relive their high school Saturdays. Y/N waved the girls goodbye at the door, smiling when she walked back inside.  

Y/N looked back at the mess they left on the table. “Right.” she let out with a satisfied sigh, she turned on the radio before cleaning and placing the last food scraps in the fridge. The music made her hum.  

She closed the fridge, jumping up when she noticed Ben leaning on the cabinets in the kitchen. “Yeez, Ben, you scared me.” She smiled as he walked towards her without saying a word. Her back pushed against the fridge. 

His hand went through her hair, while he looked in her eyes. “Hi.” Y/N whispered, drowning in his beautiful green eyes. His lips turn into a small smirk. “Hi.” he answered with the same tone before his lips claimed hers.  

Ben’s hands roamed over her body, it wasn’t new to her, him coming home and needing some sort of relieve before being able to have a ‘normal’ conversation. Y/N managed to break free for a second to breath. His mouth found its way to her neck. Sucking and kissing her skin.  

“I would really like to clean the rest of the table before going to bed.”  

” Who said I want to go to bed.” His voice sounded muffed against her neck. “The kitchen is good enough for me.” His hands moved from her thighs back to her cheek, demanding her head to look at him, so he could kiss her again.  

“B-Ben, I’m serious... give... me... 2 seconds.” she managed to say in between his hungry kisses. He let go of her lips with a deep and annoyed sigh. “Fine, hurry.” He answered grumpy. “I don’t want the room to smell in the morning.” She explained herself while Ben leaned back watching her.  

Secretly he loved that she played the role of housewife. Might even say it turns him on. His eye fell on the books that were lying on the corner of the kitchen cabinet. His curiosity took over, “What are you reading?” He asked while looking through the books. 

“Er, some travel research, just inspiration.” His eyes shot up from the counter to her. “Travel? You’re still thinking about leaving?” - “Well, not leaving.” She said rinsing the rag. “More like explore.” Y/N could feel his look, his disapproval, afraid to look up.  

A little hum was all he responded before she felt the warmth of his body radiating against her back. She felt his big hand caressing her hair, almost petting her. “Maybe you need a reminder.” His hand covered her neck right underneath her chin, pulling her head back.  

“Now, are you done?” His husky voice whispered against her ear. She nodded slow, part of her hated his dominant side, hated the fact that it turned her on as much as it did. Months ago, she would never, ever give up control. But with Ben, it was different.  

He turned her around before lifting her on his shoulder like a ragdoll, caring her to the bedroom. “I thought you didn’t want to go to the bedroom.” She answered a little sassy.  Ben’s hand landed flat on her ass. Making her gasp shortly. “Auw!” She sneered.  

He dropped her on the bed, hard enough to see the matrass bounce her back, ones. “You really need to learn how to keep that pretty mouth of yours shut.” His voice sounded deep and firm. “I thought you like me loud.” She said while pressing her lips together, trying not to laugh.  

She would have sworn his lip twitched at that comeback. But his dominant side came back fast. “Strip.” He said while looking down on her. Y/N did as she was told, throwing her clothes on the other side of the bed until she was bare.  

“Come here.” Ben said still fully dressed in his suit. She crawled towards him, the second her face was within reach he pulled her up by the back of her head. Making her kneel in front of him, his thumb moved over her partly separated lips.  

Y/N felt his finger pushing between her lips making her automatically wrap her lips around it and suck softly. Ben’s lips curled into a smirk, “That’s it baby girl. That is all I want that mouth of yours to do.” He said while pulling his finger out of her mouth.  

He looked down to his belt, giving her a silent order before he took off the bulletproof vest he wore over his shirt. Y/N undid his gun belt, unzipper his pants. She’s mouthwatering only by the thought of him. She never liked giving head, but the way Ben praised her made up for it.  

Ben was already hard for her, he lazily strokes himself a few times. “Open that dirty mouth.” once again she obeyed without a question. Her hands moved up his thighs, on their way to the base, so she could help herself a little.  

“Na-ah, hands on your lap, doll.” he said while he held her head. Y/N could feel his large hands guide her over his warm length, tasting the precum on her tongue. She looked at him while her eyes started to fill with tears. Each time Ben pulled her in she felt him further in her mouth.  

She focussed on taking him without gagging. “That’s it, good girl.” His praises made her moan around his cock. “You like it don’t you, sucking my dick.” She noticed a crack in Ben’s voice, she knew he was enjoying her moans. So, good girl as she is, she moaned again when Ben hit the back of her throat.   

And again... and again. Making Ben growl underneath his breath. His hips unable to stay still, he really wanted to fuck her mouth, but knew he would hurt her if he did. So, a little to his disappointment he needed to hold back.  

By the time he pulled out of her mouth the tears were streaming down her cheeks, her mascara ran out just a little under her eyes. “On your back. Hands above your head.” while she placed herself on the bed, she noticed him taking of the last pieces of clothing.  

He hovered above her, “now tell me baby, who do you belong to?” He asked sweet yet demanding, while his fingers moved in between their bodies, spreading her wetness with his fingers. Her head snapped back, gasping for air. “Hm? Who owns this tight pussy?” He repeated his question.  

“Y-you... Oh... Ben.” She felt the sharp sting of him pushing his dick all the way inside her. Her hands snapped to his shoulders, wanting to pull him closer. But before she could do so, Ben had his grip on her wrists above her. “I said hands above your head!” he commanded again.  

Ben’s thrusts were hard, sharp, normally he waits for her to adjust, but today he was needy. She felt the grip on her arm tighten when she fucked her so hard it was on the brim between pleasure and pain. “B-Ben... Slow..” He interrupted her by kissing her, forcing his tongue in her mouth.  

This movement made him slow down just a second, until he abrupt stopped. “What’s wrong doll, can’t take me anymore? Didn’t I fuck you enough lately?” His voice sounded sarcastic. “Need me to stop?” He asked while pulling out, making her whine at the sudden emptiness.  

“No, no Ben. Please.” She pleaded. “Please what?” He smirked. “Please, please fuck me... Please don’t stop!” She begged him, her hips moving underneath him trying to find friction. Before he pushed back into her, he let go of her wrists but pressed his hand down on her throat.  

Making her eyes roll to the back of her head. “Look at you, such a needy slut.” He pounded hard, holding his face next to hers “You’re not leaving me. You’re not going anywhere.” He breathed heavy. “All you’re going to do is fuck me. Whenever, wherever I want.”  

Y/N felt his thrusts getting uneven, the rhythm of his hips slowed down. One last thrust, one last growl, and Ben came inside her. His hold on her neck loosed and for the first time she realised how strong it was.  

Ben rolled of her, breathing heavy. He pulled her close to him, caressed her back. After a few unspoken seconds she opened her mouth, “I’ll be right back.” but the second she placed her feet on the floor trying to walk to the bathroom, she felt lightheaded. Ben noticed, jumping out of bed holding her.  

“Hey, hey, calm down, get back in bed. I’ll get a washcloth. Take it easy sweetheart.” All of the sudden all of the dominants in his voice changed to worry. Ben walked out holding two wash cloths. “Here.” He said, placing a wet cold one on her neck. She looked confused until she realised it felt amazing against her soar skin.  

“I keep forgetting you’re only human.” He said while taking care of her. “Is that an apology?” her voice sounded hoarse. She knew it was his way of saying he cared for her and that he was sorry. Or at least she hoped.  

He crawled back in bed. “Just, be more careful next time, ok?”  She whispered against his shoulder. Ben kept looking at the ceiling. “Or we could find another way.” Y/N didn’t understand him. He noticed her confused look.  

“Vought suggested to turn you into a supe, and honestly, I wouldn't mind.” She opened her mouth, “Hell no!” She answered harsh. “Hold your horses sweetheart, I told them you wouldn’t want that.” - “Why would you even want me to be one. Compound V is poison, it kills people.” 

“No, it doesn’t, that’s a gossip created by anti-believers.” - “Ben, I can’t believe this, a-are you serious?” -” Jesus Y/N, just...Stop lay down, relax.” - “No! No, I need to know Ben. Why would you want that? I’m a not good enough?”  

“It would be nicer not to hold back every time I touch you, yes.” She heard the hint of annoyance in his voice. “You’re a fucking porcelain doll in my hands. Like walking on fucking eggshells around you. I constantly need to think of it in the back of my head, quiet the turn off when you’re fucking someone.”  

Y/N held back every insult she wanted to throw at him. Instead, she turned her back to him and covered her sore body with the blankets. Feeling her eyes tear, not wanting him to see how deep those words hurt her. “Then why don't you find someone who is fucking perfect for you.” she whispered under her breath.  

The next morning, to her surprise she noticed Ben still sleeping, laying on his stomach, hugging the pillow. Due to their fight last night, he didn’t have the time to tell her they finished shooting early being able to be home for a few days. 

The doorbell rang Y/N put on a robe, before answering the door. Ben lifted his head, looking over his shoulder wondering who was here at this time. Y/N completely forgot the twins were here for breakfast and a day out. 

“HAPPY BIRTHDAY!” They yelled, hugging her, while holding balloons and a basket filled with croissants and sweets.  “You remembered.” Y/N seemingly surprised. “To be honest I'm not prepared yet.” She felt her cheeks blushing.  

“Don’t worry we’ll help you with the table.” The women fell immediately in their old habit of laughing and joking. Ben heard Y/N’s laugh in the other room, it gave him a warm feeling. But also, he felt a little guilty he didn’t got her anything for her birthday. He never even asked her when it was.  

After a short while Ben walked out the bedroom, wearing a sweatpants and shirt. He looked at the women around the table before he poured himself a coffee with wiskey. “You want something to eat?” Y/N asked. “Hm, yeah.” he grumped.  

She walked over to his grumpy ass in the kitchen. “Why didn’t you ever tell me your birthday?” He whispered a little irritated, she bends over to grab him a plate. “You never asked me.” She placed the plate next to him on the counter.  

“Plus...” She wrapped her arms around his waist. “I had no idea you would be here today.” Ben didn’t hug her back, he noticed the light bruise on her neck. He just moved her robe slightly and kissed her sore neck before making sure it was covered again with robe.  

He turned around, to fill the empty plate, leaving for the open kitchen again. Not in the mood to join the girls.   

Y/N’s friends noticed the tension between them, “Everything ok?” - “Yeah, it’s nothing... Hey I’m going to get ready.” - “Where are you going?” They heard Ben from the kitchen while he crushed a few tablets on the counter. “We made plans to go shopping.” - “Have fun.” He said while snoring a line.  

Ben hated the fact that she went out, leaving him alone, but deep down he knows he can’t tie her up wanting her to wait for him like a lap dog. He saw the books again. She wants to leave me, she will leave me. Was all he thought.  

Y/N got home by 9pm a little tipsy, she saw Ben watching a tv show, his brows still frowning. “Honey I'm home.” She joked while dropping her purse on the table. Ben looked up at her, clearly not liking the state of her. “Took you long enough.”  

“Sorry mom.” She started to giggle at her own response. “Are you drunk?” Y/N could hear Ben’s disapproval. His tone surprised her. “Yess-sir” Y/N placed her hands on her hips after saluting him. “Had no idea I had to justify my action to you. Especially when you’re the picture of class.”  

Ben’s brows lifted. ”Come again?” -” You swear like a sailor, drink like a fish and take drugs like a, a, a fucking rockstar. Pretty embarrassing meeting my friends like that.” 

Y/N didn’t stop there. “You have no manners, whatsoever. You think you’re a gentleman while you are NEVER gentle with me. Ever thought about the fact that I actual love you?” Ben, surprised by her confession, walked slowly towards her.  

She continued her preach “...And that being loved, making love would be so much more satisfying mentally, maybe if you thought about anyone else except yourself for once, you would have noticed I'm rotting in this golden cage for you... YOU, BEN!”  

She made her way to the bedroom, leaving Ben standing in the living room. “Oh, and next time when you hear it’s someone’s birthday, you wish them a fucking HAPPY BIRTHDAY!” She yelled before smashing the door close. Her words lingered in his head. She loves me...  

Ben knew he felt different about her, different than any other person he’s ever been with, but he never thought of the idea this might be love. After a second that felt like an eternity, he opened the bedroom door only to hear the water running in the bathroom.  

Y/N heard Ben moving around in the bedroom next door, her tears blended with the water streaming down her face. She couldn’t believe she said all that to him, hoping it wouldn’t backlash. Because no matter how much she wanted to leave this place, she wants him more.  

She took all the courage she had to face him again. Ben was already sitting in bed, watching her walking over to her side, crawling under the covers. He still thought about the fact she, even though she was angry, admitted she loved him.  

He wanted to tell her he felt the same, or at least say something. But he had no idea how to.  “Goodnight.” was all she said giving him a soft peck on his cheek, before turning off her light.  

Y/N felt Ben moving behind her sinking down in bed, to her surprise he wraps his arms around her. “Happy birthday sweetheart.” he whispered in her ear before giving her a small kiss on her shoulder. She turned around facing him, nose to nose under the covers. “Thank you.”  

“And... I am...” Why was it so difficult to say he was sorry. “It’s ok. I know.” she said. Her hand moved to his cheek, feeling the light stubble growing under his skin. The air shifted, Y/N felt warmth rushing through her veins when Ben’s lips caressed hers.  

Their kiss deepened but she noticed a difference in his touch. Softer, more loving. “Ben... I’m exhausted.” She sighs while breaking the kiss. “I know.” He pulled her close to him. “Try to get some sleep, doll.” His large hands caressed the back of her head. “Sweet dreams.” He mumbled against her head. 

That night was the first time in a long time Y/N slept good, really good. Her face was hugged by Ben’s chin and chest. His steady heartbeat made her feel at ease, the circles Ben’s fingers drawn on her back felt soft and loving. Unfortunately, she got woken by the sound of the phone on the nightstand.  

Y/N felt Ben’s body move right before he answered the phone, letting go of her. Ben answered with an irritated sleepy voice. “Hm? Yeah, ... now? Can’t this wait? Hm, ok.” - “Duty calls?” She asked when he turned back to her. “Yes.” She lifted herself a little so she could kiss his grumpy lips. 

Ben held the doorknob in his hand, without looking to her, he asked: “I know there is a lot we still need to talk about, just... just promise me you wait with... making decisions until we had a decent conversation?” For the first time she saw a nervous Ben. he couldn’t even look at her.  

“I’ll be here when you come back.” She reinsured him. Ben nodded before leaving for Vought.  

---  

A few days had passed. A man had called her today, saying he was an assistant at Vought, clamming Ben wanted her to come to Vought. This was unusual request, but she was hoping he wanted to talk about all that had happened over the past few days.  

Y/N was led into a small waiting room, sitting next to the security guard she met months ago. He greeted her at the door claiming to bring her to Ben. The blond receptionist kept giving her judgy looks. Y/N heard her phone ringing, she stopped typing only to answer it, when she hung up the phone, she told Y/N she could enter the room now. Still being followed by the big fella.  

Once inside she noticed Ben wasn’t there, the uncertain feeling in her gut became fear. “Why am I summoned here? Who are you?” her voice almost broke trying hard not to let her fear out. “Ah, miss. Y/L/N/, good to finally meet you. Please sit.”  

"You can call me the legend, Senior Vice President of Hero Management here at Vought. You may have heard of me.” - “I’m sorry can’t say I have.” She said while taking the chair opposite his. 

“We asked you to come here to discuss an urgent matter. We are aware of your relationship with Soldier Boy. And he made it very clear he doesn’t want to break things off with you. And even though we are thrilled there is a woman out there who can, tame, our best soldier, we still want to make sure he knows his duty. “ 

“I don’t see the problem. As far as I know he has been up and ready every time you called.” - “Well miss Y/L/N you are not around when he is doing his job. On his last job, a documentary he left, leaving us with a lot of debt to a lot of people.”  

“Because I quote: “He didn’t need this fucking job, and he sure as hell don’t need a team, he can spend his time with someone better.” That did sound like Ben. “Now we, at Vought, believe a crew would lighten the workload and encourage young supes. You know send a bright message to the world.” the man gave his sales pitch.  

” Let me guess, you want me to convince him?” Y/N interrupted his story. “Well, actually miss Y/N, can I call you Y/N?” She nodded once. “We want you to be part of it, guide Ben in being a leader, show the young girls out there a woman can accomplish the same things a man can. After all you are quite the rebel back in the day I heard.”  

Y/N frowned, “Oh Soldier boy couldn’t stop talking about the young girl turning her back to her family to run away with him. Almost a fairytale we want to tell.” Y/N’s suspicions grew bigger, shifting in her chair.  

“But then again...” He stood up walking over to her. His hand moved away her hair. “ We don’t want the world to see that our beloved hero leaves bruises on pretty little girls.”  His hand moved over the sore spot on her neck. Making Y/N push his hand away.  

The bodyguard took a step forward, but the legend waved him away. “I don’t care about your popularity.” Y/N said. “But you do care about him, and he does care about his status. So here is the proposition, we give you the power, make you a superhero, and you get your life out in public with Ben.”  

“No.” Y/N could see the old man’s brows frown. “Sorry?” - “Are you deaf, I said no.” Y/N got up, but the large man blocked her. “I really wanted to do things different sweetheart.” She heard the older man say before she felt a pinch in her neck.  

The next thing Y/N knew she woke up under rubble, her throat was dry from the dust around her. She would have sworn she heard Ben’s voice. She tried to call for him but was unable to get a sound out of her. A beam of light shined on her face. “WE GOT ONE.” She heard a man yell.  

Bricks and other rubble got lifted of her, piece by piece. Her legs still trapped under a metal beam. “We need assistance here, she is trapped.” The man called out. Y/N vision was troubled. “Y/N? Oh god Y/N!” This time she was sure, she heard Ben’s voice.  

Ben lifted the beam of her legs before he kneeled down next to her. “I got you sweetheart, hang on.” He carried her in his arms, her weak body close against his. “MOVE!” she heard him shout at the people in front of him. He brought her over to the ambulance. “Soldier boy, there are still other people trapped in the store.” 

He looked at the police officer in charge, “looks like there is enough help from the fire department and the police. I’m going to the hospital with her.” he closed the door of the ambulance with Y/N in it. The entire ride he held her hand, worried, trying to understand why she was in the travel agency again. She did promise him not to make decisions before they could talk.  

Once in the hospital it became clear Y/N needed blood and quickly and even then, it wasn’t sure she would make it. Ben was angry and upset. He yelled at the doctors they needed to do more when he felt the legends hand on his shoulder. “There might be a way to help her heal up faster.” - “No, no she won’t...” he thought for a second. “She would never agree to turn her into a supe.”  

“Who said anything on turning her my boy. She needs blood, give her yours.” Ben looked at the doctor. “Could that work?” - “It might. We never tested it.” Ben looked through the window at Y/N laying in the hospital bed with a weak heartbeat on the monitor. I can’t lose her. He thought. “Ok”  

Little did he know, Vought had run tests with Ben’s blood. Turned out that injecting someone with enough blood would change them. Ben had enough compound V in his system that his blood made it possible to create or change the cells inside another person. Only if their body was shutting down, his blood would react like a surviving mechanism.  

-- 

Y/N woke up from a discussion in the hall, without opening her eyes she knew it was Ben. “You told me she is healthy, then why the fuck isn’t she wake yet!?” Slowly she opened her eyes, getting used to the light in the room. The fog before her eyes cleared, but soon she felt the pounding headache making her growl under her breath. 

She looked around the room noticing Ben was talking to the doctor in the hall, she saw that the door was closed. Weird I thought he was standing next to me. Y/N thought. “Ben?” she softly spoke. She saw him turning his head looking at her through the window before storming inside. “Hey doll. How are you feeling?”  

Y/N thought about that for a second.” Part from the headache, fine. What happened?” - “A terrorist blew up midtown, you were.... shopping. I found you amongst the victims.” Y/N couldn’t recall this happening, couldn’t even remember she went shopping in the first place.  

“How many...” Her voice broke. “Everyone made it. You lost a lot of blood, we had to eh, give you a blood transfusion.” She saw the terror in Ben’s eyes. “What’s wrong?” - “You almost didn’t make it. And eh, we decided to try something... new. We, eh, gave you, my blood.”  

“What?” - “We gave you, my blood.” he repeated. Y/N blinked her eyes a few times, trying to understand. The doctor walked in checking her vitals one last time. “So, what side effects does that give?” Both men looked at each other. “I presume there will be side effects.”  

“We don’t know yet, but there is a possibility you will have his powers or maybe even copy some of his personality traits, just for a while until your blood fought off his cells.” The doc said. “Is that why I have a headache?” - “That’s my best guess. You may leave the hospital now, but I would like to see you for a check-up later this week.”  

The entire ride home Y/N didn’t say a word, the thought of having his blood, compound V, rush through her veins made her stomach turn. But she also knew he did it to safe her. Once inside their safe space in the apartment she turned towards Ben, wrapped her arms around his ribs and just hugged him. He answered by rubbing his hand on her back.  

“Y/N?” - “Hm?” - “Why were you at the travel agency?” - “I don’t know, I don’t even remember going shopping.” she looked at him. Y/N saw the fear in his eyes. “I just... thought, we would talk when I got back.” He pulled her arms off him. “But it seems you already made your decision without me.”  She shook her head, “No.”  

“How can you say that when you don’t even remember a thing.” His voice turned cold. “Because I remember our fight, how miserable I felt, thinking I want to be with you, Ben.” She could see he wasn’t convinced yet. “Ben, let’s talk now. Let’s fix this, this tension between us.” - “There wouldn’t be tension if you just knew your place!”  

“My place? Where the fuck would that be!” She matched his tone. “You know what, fuck this, no! Fuck you. Since the first day we met you claimed me like some fucking price. I’m no fucking object you can buy. I’m not a toy you can play with when you’re bored! I’m done. I’m so, SO DONE!” Y/N smashed her fist against the kitchen counter breaking the marble countertop. 

Ben grabbed her hand to check if she was fine. “Let go of me.” she pulled her hand out of his grip. “I’m still mad at you.” He looked him dead in the eye before she walked to the bedroom packing a bag. “What are you doing?” He stood in the door. “Maybe you need a little time alone. I know I do.” 

“Time alone?” - “Yeah, alone, like not being used to me waiting around for you, not being able to visit your puppet, you know the one you think about only when your fucking boner talks to you.” Y/N was ruthless, the things she said to him, she never even dared to say out loud afraid he would walk out on her. But now she felt strong enough to walk out on him.  

“I just saved your life.” - “You changed me into the last thing I wanted in this life.” - “We had no idea. This will all end sooner or later.” - “What if it doesn’t? I can’t even look at you anymore Ben. So fucking selfish.”  

Ben grabbed her arm. “If you leave know, you don’t need to come back.” He said in despair, his body screamed anger, his eyes trying to show dominance but glanced at hers in fear. Y/N nodded slow, letting his words sink in. “Good luck finding another fuck toy.”  

--  

Years passed; Y/N travelled the world like she wanted to. But never really being able to forget about Ben. She sends him a post card from every land she visited, not even knowing if he would receive them, or even still had the condo. But she needed to tell him about her days.  

Once she heard the news that Soldier boy and Crimson Countess started dating, she stopped sending cards. She hated herself for not getting home earlier, she always planned on getting home, talk to him, convinced him she still loved him. But she was afraid, afraid he would turn his back to her.  

Y/N needed the travel not just for the memories, but for her mental health. During her time alone she noticed more and more powers compatible with Ben’s. She had a hard time trying to figure out how to live with it, how to accept it. She used the time to find a cure, but never found one. So when she had to deal with the fact, she would be forever a superhero, she hated herself.  

-- 

Now many years later, Butcher had found her, via intel coming from the legend himself. “You want to win him over by bringing him the head of Countess on a silver plate? Boy you need much more than that.” He shook his head. “I suggest you find the reason he made his relationship with the young redhead public. Y/N.”  

The entire It couple gimmick began when Ben had the brilliant idea of making Y/N jealous. He had no idea where she was so reaching her was difficult, by the time he got her cards she was probably halfway around the world again. So, he agreed, after a few years, to leading a superhero team. Making Crimson countess his girl.  

When Y/N broke all contact, he started to appreciate crimson more and more. Desperately trying to forget Y/N.  

“Can I help you?” Y/N said to the men waiting at her door, in her New York apartment. “Maybe luv, we are looking for miss Y/N Y/L/N.” - “You found her.” she answered very calm, leading them inside. Hughie was surprised, thinking they were searching for a woman in her 80s. Not a young girl looking not even a day older as him.  

Butcher explained her how they found Ben. How he was the one to blow up mid-town. Y/N sat at the table looking over to Hughie, French and MM while Butcher kept giving his pitch. “So, you are telling me not only that Ben is still alive, but that he has a new superpower, radiation or something?”  

“Precisely luv.” She British fella grinned while leaning back in his chair. Y/N nodded slow. “And you want me to ‘control’ Ben, for... you?” - “Well to ease him. Making sure he won’t blow up again.” Hughie corrected trying to flash her a smile but to nervous.  

“Get the fuck out of my apartment.” She said looking Butcher straight in the eye. Who clearly didn’t expect her answer. “Out, before I kick you out.” She got up and opened the door for the men. ”Oh and a word of advice. No one, and I mean no one, can guide Ben. He does what he wants, when he wants and well, how he wants. So, good luck.” Y/N said before closing the door in their faces. 

But Butcher had made her curious, a part of her wanted to see Ben again, she always had known, the story of him being dead was fake.  She felt he was still alive, was it her undying love for him or the fact that his cells made her to who she is now a days. But she knew one day he would be back from the dead.  

So, Y/N decided to follow the men, seeing where Ben stayed. No intentions to meet him, but when she saw him, her heart stopped. She sat in her car watching Ben opening the small motel door, wearing a baseball shirt and sweatpants. But his physique was nearly untouched, she saw he was slightly skinnier, what to expect after 40 years of torture and sleep in Russia.  

Before she knew it, she stood in front of the door, letting out a deep sigh. “Please don’t be angry.” she whispered under her breath.  

--  

Ben held his hand up, making Butcher and Hughie shut up. “Did you...” he broke off the sentence he wanted to say walking towards the door.  

-- 

Right when Y/N wanted to knock on the door, it opened. Her eyes locked with his in an instant. “Hi.” she said breathing heavy. For a second that felt like a lifetime she stared at his beautiful eyes, roamed his face, noticing those freckles she loved. Feeling the desire to kiss his full lips. Needing to taste them once more.  

Ben kept looking at her like he saw a ghost. When he didn’t move aside or say anything, she started to regret coming here. “T-this was a mistake, I’m sorry to bother you.” But those words seemed to wake him up. Right when she wanted to turn away, he grabbed her tight, pulling her in his arms.  

She felt his chin and nose on her head, while one of his hands rested on her back the other one caressed her hair. “I thought I would never see you again.” He blurred out. “I thought you didn’t want to see me anymore.” He slightly loosened his grip on her, only to look at her again.  

“You cut your hair.” He noticed the once luscious locks were trimmed to a long bob, making her hair wavy now. “Well, you grew a beard.” Her hand instinctively moved to his chin. Accidently moving her thumb against his lips.  

That small touch started the fire withing them. Ben immediately held the back of her neck, pulling her up to kiss her. Passioned but controlled, when they let go of each other, their eyes where once again locked. Butcher and Hughie left the room. “We shall give you two time to talk.” The Brit said when walking passed them.  

“Fuck I missed you, Doll.” She could hear the heat in his voice. “How much?” she flirter, Ben’s lips curled in a smirk. “I’ll show you.” he whispered before finding her lips again. All their sorrow, doubts and fears flew out the window.  

Ben placed her down on the bed underneath him. His hands moved over her body, already stripped her from her clothing. His large hands cupped her breast, kneading softly before pulled her bra straps down.  

His lips sucked at her already harden nipples. Making her moan his name in a prayer. “You haven’t aged a day. Still so fucking beautiful.” He breathed out when his hand moves in between them, finding her wet core. His fingers glided through her fold, coating before slipping two fingers inside her.  

“Hm.. Still so tight.” He moaned in her ear while her back arched. When Ben wanted to move down she pulled him back up by the back of his head. “Ben... I don’t want to wait.” - “Tell me what you want doll.”  

She pulled his shirt over his head before using her strength to turn them around. Pulling his pants down to his knees and straddled him. “I need you...” she pumped his hard, thick cock with her small hands. “Inside me, now.”  

“Are you sure?” His cocky grin appeared. “Fuck... yes.” she answered while she sank down on his cock. Letting her head fall back. Ben’s hands moved up over her breasts and neck. Her body instinctively started to grind against his. 

The moans and praised sounded out of porn movie. But for them this felt like heaven. Ben lifted himself, kneaded her ass cheeks while guiding her. While her hands found their way to the back of his head and shoulders. Feeling his slightly longer hair through her fingers. Tugging while her lips concurred his.  

Ben felt her tightening around his shaft, knowing she was close, he turned her on her back. Hovering over her while his hips found a little faster but, oh so good pace. He knew from that moment he wouldn’t be able to hold back when she came, and he didn’t care, he needed to hear her moan his name in ecstasy.  

“Oh Ben...” She moaned while her back arched, her legs tightened around his hip. “Let go sweetheart, I got you.” Where the last words she heard before blanking into a breath taking, leg shaking orgasm. She was so out of this world, that by the time she came down, she noticed Ben had his at the same time as her.  

Ben laid down next to her. She looked at him, “what?” he asked out of breath. “You were, softer than I remember.” She noticed. ”Well...” his hand moved over his face to his hair. “A very special girl once told me to be more... gentle. Something about making love would be so much more satisfying.” 

Y/N bit her lip. “And I promised myself, if she ever gave me a change, I would show her how a man makes love to his woman.” he added. Y/N felt tears of joy in eyes. His woman... She crawled back on top of him, kissing him once more.  

“Thank you.” She smiled.  

She noticed a question lingering on his lips. “What’s wrong?” His eyes found hers again. “Stay here, at least tonight.” Ben said, realising his words weren’t a question. So, he added “Please?” after a second.  

Y/N’s lips curled into a smile once more. “Why should I?” she teased, knowing it would drive him crazy. Expecting him to say something along the line of “I’ll make it worth your while, or I'm not done fucking you.”  

But no, he thought about it for a second and said:  

“Because I love you.”  

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Thanks for reading, if you like it feel free to like, share or comment. 🩵

[aliterealsimp]

Friendly reminder that these two share the same japanese voice actor /srs

[mephilesthedork]

A friendly reminder that these four share the same voice actor:

Have a wonderful day.

Steve Blum

[wordsaresimple-imnot]

Truth or dare - Joe Toye x F!Reader

Summary: Could taking Toye's cigarette from his mouth on a dare be the push Reader and him need to cut the recent tension in their friendship?

Warnings: Cursing, heavy make-up, suggestive ending. 1st person POV (female, no use of y/n).

A/N: I have the biggest respect for the real life heroes of WWII (and all other wars, past & current), this work & all other works is based on the actor(s) and character(s) portrayed in the Band of Brothers series.

A/N pt 2: This is the second fic I've posted today and I'm really hoping it's good. The ending leaves room for a possible smut part 2 if anyone is interesting. Comments, likes, reblogs mean everything to me. Thank you & enjoy!

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"What's so funny?" I ask as I sit down at the nurses table in the mess hall. I got there just in time to grab the last bits of lunch options before my shift starts.

"We are playing 'truth or dare' and Emily just had to answer who she'd rather kiss: Tab or Luz." Betty told me between giggles.

"Well? Who'd you pick?" I shoot Emily a smirk, already knowing her answer as we've been the only ones in our group that came from Toccoa and therefore the closest.

"Tab." Her face gets redder, as if that was possible, then she gets a mischievous look in her eye. "Your turn. Truth or dare?"

"Dare." I know she knows too much dirt on me to let her ask a question. But judging by the smile spreading on her face, I'm not sure I chose correctly.

"Go get that cigarette Toye is smoking." Her smile widens as the girls within earshot say 'oh' and some whistle.

Joe Toye is not someone that most of the nurses like dealing with. Not that he's rude or inappropriate, he just intimidates them. Not as bad as Spiers, but they put him right up there. From an outsiders point of view I can understand, he's not overly friendly like most of the guys in Easy you have to work a little to weasel past the hard exterior.

For myself, all I had to do was shoot Tab down for the billionth time back in Georgia as I was wrapping up his ankle that he twisted on yet another Currahee run. Don't get me wrong, I like Tab but not in that way and the quicker I could make him understand that the sooner we could just enjoy being friends.

Right when I was finishing up with his wrap, he started to say another pick-up line and being at my wits end I snapped a little. Grabbing his ankle I put enough pressure on it that made him stop talking and sit up straighter.

"Tab, if you come onto me one more time I will break your ankle. Do you understand me?" I kept my voice low and hard, maintaining direct eye contact so he knew I wasn't playing. With a small gulp, he nodded his head and I put on my most charming smile. "Wonderful, now take it easy with that ankle. If Sobel gives you a hard time about it, let me know and I'll put in a word with my supervisor to find a reason to annoy him."

With a final nod, I got him off the bed and started to help him to the door when a hand pushed me to the side and took my spot next to Tab. My protest died on my lips as I came face to face with Toye.

"I can take him from here, ma'am, thanks." He threw Tab's arm over his shoulder and started moving to the door. Two steps later he looked over his shoulder back at me with a small smirk on his face and said, "Remind me to not piss you off when you're fixing me up." Without waiting for a reply, he turned back around and kept himself and Tab moving.

From that day forward a friendship of sorts grew and since landing in Europe and dealing with the horrors of the war in our faces everyday, we'd grown even closer. The past few weeks things are taken a turn to being more flirty with beginning stages of intimacy. Jokes whispered in each others ears just so we can be closer than normal, fingers touching when handing each other items, lingering hugs, forehead and cheek kisses. It was all adding up and creating a tension neither of us seemed ready yet to break but didn't want to dispel either.

Emily's foot nudging mine under the table breaks me from my memories and makes me send her a glare. She's fully aware of the gray area Toye and I are in at the moment and seems to be all too happy to add fuel to that fire. I give a loud sigh and look around till I find him sitting a few rows to our left, sitting with Guarnere and Buck. Inwardly I groan, those two are never going to let me live this down.

With a final glare in her direction, I stand up and make my way over towards the guys. I can feel all of the girls eyes on my back which does nothing in helping me stay calm.

All three of them see me at the same time and smile in greeting.

"Hey doll, how's it going?" Buck asks as I sit across from him, next to Toye.

"About to go on shift, thought I'd say a quick hi and get a smoke." I shrug, trying to sound nonchalant.

"Here ya go." Bill tosses his pack my way from next to Buck.

"Thanks, but uh, I think I'll take this one." Before I can over think it, I pluck the cigarette resting between Toye's lips and take a long drag. I blow the smoke right in his face, hoping it'll hide how red my face is and stand up quickly. "Always a pleasure."

I practically jog to the nurses table, ignoring the laughs and 'good jobs' as I grab Emily by the arm and force her to leave the mess hall with me. I don't let go of her until we are nearly at the medic station. With a final puff I toss my stolen cigarette into the road and turn to face my friend that hasn't stopped beaming at me since I grabbed her.

"What?!" I sound almost frantic.

"Oh calm down, it's not the end of the world. It was just a cigarette."

"How do I even begin to explain what that was?" I put my hands on my hips.

Emily shrugs and flicks some invisible dust off her shoulder, "Just tell him that it was dare. But honestly, I don't think he really cares why you did it. The way he was looking at you as we left was more than mild interest. You're welcome." She pats my cheek and goes into the medic station, leaving me with no choice but to groan and follow her.

It doesn't take long for me to push the earlier experience from my mind and become overwhelmed with current and new patients in need of varying medical attention. Most are stable and just need an easy wrapping or cleaning up. There's a few that have been with us for a little while that still need monitoring but they're in relatively good spirits so it helps make the shift not too depression.

It's fully dark outside when I finally am able to step away and take a breather. With a signal to Emily letting her know I'll be around back, I slip out quietly and lean against the backwall of the building. I can't be alone more than a few minutes when I hear footsteps heading my way. I just want to be alone. But my annoyance goes away when I see who it is.

Neither of us speaks as he stops right in front of me and tucks a lose piece of hair behind my ear.

"You okay?" His words are soft and light, barely above a whisper as if he's afraid anything louder would break the small bit of peace we've managed to get in this hidden area. All I do is nod, not wanting to elaborate on the different faces and wounds I've been dealing with the past hours. His response is to pull me in his arms and spin us around so that his back is against the wall and I'm leaning against him.

We stay like that for a bit, listening to the noises on the street and each other breathing. It's nearly enough to make me fall asleep when I feel his chest rumble and the question I've been dreading is asked.

"So what was that at lunch?" I groan into his chest before pushing back far enough to look at his face. Fuck Joe Toye for being beautiful and sexy at the same time when he allows himself to give a full smile, not just a smirk.

"The girls were playing truth or dare and that was my dare. Sorry." I shoot him a small smile and pray he just drops it. He gives a small hum as he takes in my words.

"Well then, truth or dare?" He leans more against the wall, waiting for my answer. I gape at him.

"You can't be serious." The intimidating Joe Toye is trying to play 'truth or dare' with me? What the fuck.

"I'm always seriously," Joe winks, "so, truth or dare?" The glint in his eyes tells me there is no safe choice.

"Dare." I'd rather do something stupid than be asked something I'd rather not answer right now.

The silence stretches between us almost to an unbearable point, making me start to fidget in his arms.

"Close your eyes." His words make me freeze and my face scrunches up in confusion.

"That's my dare?" I'm trying to figure out what the catch is, but I can't find one.

"Close. Your. Eyes." His voice leaves no room for argument and since it's not anything crazy all I can do is comply.

With my eyes closed I try to use my others senses to figure out what his next step is. At first all he does is stand up straighter, move one hand up my back and gently cups my cheek. Joe pulls me a little closer to him and then I can feel his breathe on my lips.

"I'm going to do something now and I only want you to respond if it's something you really want. If you don't, just push me away." I barely finish processing his words when his lips brush against mine softly, teasingly.

When I don't make a move to push him away, he gently pecks my lips still in a teasing manner. The next time his lips touch mine I grab onto his jacket to hold him there and kiss him back. At the feel of his tongue tracing my lips I open my mouth and let him have complete control.

We lose track of time staying wrapped up in each others arms, making out like teenagers. We break apart at the same time when we finally need air. I'm not sure what comes over me but I kiss along his cheek, making my way to his neck and begin nipping at his exposed flesh. The hand that had been on my check moves to my the back of my head, fisting my hair but not moving me away. His breathing is becoming more ragged and when a groan escapes his lips from a particular bite I leave I feel like I've died and gone to heaven. As my tongue works to sooth the sting, the hand that was on my back drops down and grabs my ass, pushing my hips against his, letting me feel his erection.

"Joe." His name comes out as a whimper mixed with a moan and that makes him grind against me again.

Just as we are about to kiss again, someone clears their throat and we freeze.

"Very sorry to interrupt, and believe me I am sorry, but I need help checking wounds and restocking the stations." Emily's voice is both amused and apologetic.

"Yeah, I'll be right there, Em." My voice comes out much too ragged but it's not like she doesn't know the reason at this point. I wait till her footsteps grow faint, before beginning to pull away from Joe. He's slow to let me go and only manages to move his hands back to my waist.

"I should be off in a few more hours...can I come find you after?"

"No need, I'll be waiting outside for you. I believe we have some things to finish." He pulls me flush against him, making his point perfectly clear. Before I can think of a cheeky response, he gives me a final, firm kiss and spins me around towards to way back inside the building.

I walk a few steps, then turn around and shoot him an innocent smile, "No touching before you find me, Toye. I have a few ideas on how to spice up 'truth or dare'." I laugh lightly to myself when all I can hear as I round the corner to the building entrance is Joe cursing.

[katuschka]

Olalla Chapter Twelve

Josh Kiszka x f!OC x jake Kiszka 7.480 words

Disclaimer: This is a work of fiction, intended for adult readers. Any resemblance to real persons is purely coincidental. Also, if you're under 18, go find some other entertainment elsewhere.

Warnings (are spoilers): deception, emotional cheating, secrets and insincerity, petting, light dom play, oral sex (m!receiving), including rimming, very light breathplay, a brief mention of sex toys, a brief mention of war, and as always, an unhealthy dose of heavy emotions and feelings, crying

(Oh, and yes, Cody Bowles has been my inspiration fro Christopher.)

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Previous chapter Olalla masterpost

In every corridor that shifted the maze No single part of you was ever the same Now we're so tired by the things we have seen All we've forgotten only visits in dreams How I misunderstood Here I stand undressed Here I confess my doubt Did you know that I would? From this fractured lens We're unveiled again and again

Jake

He felt trapped. He fucked up, and he knew it. This was not how he wanted it to end, despite all the secrets and circumstances that had led them all into this exact situation. 

Now, with three pairs of eyes boring into him, Jake’s mind started racing in a desperate attempt to come up with a plausible explanation that would hurt no one. Yeah, it seemed to be an impossible task, and he felt like the universe had brought Veela’s sister there simply to make it even harder. Her previously friendly smile quickly transformed into a fierce glare that was so disturbingly familiar. Same room, different woman, different time. What a deja-vu. She-wolves, both of them. Fuck this shit. 

Maya was a stranger to him. She knew nothing about this, at least seemingly, and he simply didn’t want her there. 

But one look at Agnieszka’s hand holding her sister firmly by the shoulder for support reminded Jake that he was a mere visitor here, and Maya had every right to be present and ask questions. He, on the other hand, had no right to lay down conditions. 

While obviously younger, it was also immediately apparent which one of them possessed more strength and innate authority. From what Josh had told him, she had also played the role of a matchmaker at the very start. So the bitch was also fond of his brother. Great. Jake missed Sam all of the sudden. Sam would know what to do. He’d insult everyone in the process, but at least he always somehow knew how to soothe disturbed hearts and prevent any further damage. Ok, what would Sam do… 

“Jake? What is going on?” Agnieszka’s voice broke the silence, and he cringed at the sound. Not commanding. Pleading. And containing all the previous questions. She was trying to stay outwardly calm, but he could see the self-consuming storm raging behind her eyes. If only she learned how to let it out more often. They’d get what they both rightfully deserved and she’d stop destroying herself. 

Jake looked into Josh’s eyes again and found a silent plea there, followed by a simple gesture that only Jake knew how to decode. He answered in the same manner, by brushing the back of his hand across his chin. He made up his mind then, and took a deep breath. She would be angry, but Jake knew Josh was no hypocrite, so no real harm would be done… 

“I’m sorry Veela, but I told him we kissed. We had an ugly fight then, he wanted me to cancel this trip and threatened to leave the band…” In his peripheral vision, he could see Josh raising his eyebrows in astonishment, but it was gone a second later. He knew he could count on his brother being a good actor. Perhaps too good… Let’s worry about this later. Neszka, on the other hand, looked shocked and hurt, but that was the price he was ready to pay.  “So…yeah…that’s kinda how that happened,” he continued, referring to Josh’s injury.  “Yesterday evening I told Lisa, because things got tense again on the way here.”

Agnieszka’s horror-struck stare quickly transformed into a mask of vigilance and Jake wasn’t entirely sure she really bought his explanation. In his mind, he was quickly calculating whether it covered and clarified everything that was said. Meanwhile, she looked at Josh, wondering if he’d confirm the story. To Jake’s mild astonishment (and great relief), Josh returned her gaze with a soft, sad smile and blinked slowly. He looked almost relieved. Really…?

“I’m sorry…,” she said, taking the blame just like she always did. Jake felt instantly bad and regretful for putting her in that position, while still knowing that the truth would be much worse. Before he could say something, Josh beat him to it. 

“No babe! I already said this has nothing to do with you… I mean… it kinda does, but… there’s nothing you should apologize for.” 

Maya looked like she was just about to say something when a cute little sprite with two long braids danced into the room. “Mama, jesteš tutaj!” She started tugging at the hem of Maya’s sweatshirt impatiently. She looked no older than four. 

Maya replied in a sweet voice, but quickly added something that sounded like a commanding reproach, making the little girl turn towards him and Josh bashfully. “Dzień dobry,” she squeaked, while batting her eyelashes at them, making Jake smile. She reminded him of young Ronnie and he suddenly wondered how Lulubean would have looked like. This Christmas was supposed to be completely different, but the safety of his arms was now just an empty cradle. The sudden pang was very unwelcome. 

Meanwhile, Maya whispered something to Neszka, to which the latter only shook her head. Grabbing the girl’s hand, Maya kissed her sister’s cheek and shot an ambivalent glance at Josh, who responded with a tentative pat on her shoulder, but averted his eyes immediately. 

“It was a pleasure meeting you, Jake,” Maya nodded towards him on her way out, sounding like it was the least pleasurable thing she had experienced during the whole week. Honestly, Jake couldn’t care less. He was more concerned with the oppressive silence that engulfed the room the moment she left. Suddenly, they had nothing left to say, even though the situation was far from resolved. Josh sat down on the nearest chair and rubbed his still a bit puffy eyes. Apparently, Lisa must have woken him up with her call. 

Without a word, Neszka poured him a large glass of orange juice and he drank it down immediately, thanking her weakly. Jake felt like he overstayed his welcome and immediately chuckled at the thought, considering that he had come uninvited in the first place. 

“What’s so funny?” Josh looked up, annoyed. 

“Nothing…I… think I should go back,” he sighed, then grimaced immediately, remembering his phone was dead. “Although I have no idea how to get there. Jesus Christ…”

“I’ll drive you,” Neszka chimed in with a stoic tone. Josh looked like he was going to protest, but stopped himself the moment he saw her face. “Just let me change into jeans and grab a coat.” She left without giving either of them a second glance and Jake had a feeling that she probably wanted to be alone for a second, while giving them a chance to talk. He returned back to his coffee and cake opposite to Josh and took a small bite. 

“Thank you,” Josh murmured at last. 

Jake ignored this. He didn’t do that for Josh and it wasn’t anything anyone should be thankful for, anyway. I didn’t change a thing. It certainly didn’t make anything better, only worse. And, it raised new questions. “You didn’t seem surprised. Either you’re good at pretending, or Lisa already told you about the kiss.” 

Josh shook his head. “Yeah, she told me. But I wasn’t surprised, because while I might be good at pretending, you’re not. You think I hadn’t noticed? You two had been almost inseparable during the first week. Then suddenly, she comes to my room in the middle of the night, her shirt reeking of Sauvage. And I also heard you talking on the stairs later that night. But even if I hadn’t, Jake… Do you think I’m stupid? With you suddenly avoiding her? Or reeking of booze half of the time… I’m your twin!” 

Jake felt a huge lump in his throat. Really?! His twin would have said something. Who is this person? He pursed his lips and looked at Josh defiantly, while the latter shook his head with a pained expression etched on his face. 

“So now that we settled this,” Josh sighed. “Tell me, Jake, why are you here?”

“We didn’t settle shit. And I already told you. At least now you know why I don’t wanna let you hurt her. Oh, wait, you’ve known all along. My bad.”

“I wasn’t lying, Jake. I know you don’t believe me, and I have no idea how to make you, but nothing happened!” 

“Why the hell did he kiss you then? Why did you both look so reconciled?”

Josh scoffed. “As if sex could ever make it right.” 

Jake didn’t respond to that. He had told Lisa he knew Christopher… so now he had to admit to himself that Josh was right. However, his brother was also obviously still not telling the whole truth. “Fine. Ok. But something happened, Josh. If you think that I can’t fool you… well, brother, let me remind you that it works both ways. If nothing happened, why do you look so uneasy?” Leaning on his elbow with his head resting in his palm, Jake raised his eyebrows and looked intently at Josh, daring him. They just stared at each other for a few more seconds, unmoving, before Josh finally sighed and leaned back on his chair. 

“It’s a bit complicated.”

“Naaaah, definitely not the answer I was looking for.”

“What do you want me to say, Jake?!?” Josh’s voice suddenly sounded unusually hoarse, and Jake knew that usually happened when Josh was choking on uncomfortable emotions. “Taffy just doesn’t believe that this will last.” He made a sweeping gesture towards the door behind him. “And he told me that he would be there once I got back home and wanted to call him…” Josh let out a shaky breath and looked past Jake, staring at the wooden ornaments on the wall and looking like he didn’t even believe what he just said. His lower lip started to quiver slightly, and Jake suddenly felt almost sorry for him. Almost… Also, Taffy what?

“And you?”

Josh looked back at Jake, frowning. “Huh?” 

“You believe it? You must have said or done something that made him not believe it, and we both know Taffy’s not an idiot. So, what did you tell him? Why are you here, Josh?” 

“I…”

“Ok, I’m ready.” 

The sound of Agnieszka’s voice right behind him made Josh visibly tense. Eyes wide in horror, he looked at Jake and his nostrils flared. Another silent question only the two of them understood. In response, Jake placed two fingertips on his lower lip. No. No, she probably didn’t hear them. She was smiling, albeit weakly. 

“Fine, let’s go,” he stood up, grabbed his own coat and followed Neszka back into the hall, leaving Josh alone with his thoughts. 

The drive was not long, just a few minutes, but they spent it in silence, so it seemed like an eternity. Only when she parked in front of the small row of private chalets, she spoke. 

“I wanted to say that I wished you had been sincere, but that would be hypocritical.” 

“What do you mean?” Jake looked at her, frowning. She didn’t return the gaze; instead she kept looking at the wild, snowy horizon in front of her. 

He waited patiently for the answer, but she didn’t give him any. Instead, her face suddenly twisted slightly and she squeezed her eyes shut, but all her attempts to calm down only resulted in a shaky sob. Jake panicked. 

“Hey! No…” He reached out and pulled her in an embrace. “Shhh. What did he do?”

“Eh? What? No…nothing. He didn’t do anything. Wrong, I mean… That’s not…,” she sobbed with her face buried in his shawl, before she collected herself enough to pull away and take a deep, calming breath. “Don’t you think we’re all behaving like complete idiots?” She smiled mournfully, with her eyes now completely red and puffy. Jake desperately wanted to stroke her damp cheek, but stopped himself almost in mid-motion to rub his own lips instead. 

“A bit, maybe, yeah…” You have no idea, actually. “What are you trying to tell me, Veela?”

“I should be mad at you. For telling him, and for hurting him. And I should be asking you why you did that in the first place, but…”

“Veela, I…”

 “I’m glad you’re here, Jake,” she cut him off, sighing. “I really mean it. I missed you.”

She wasn’t making it any easier for him. Just a second earlier, it was almost impossible to breathe. Now the creature inside his chest roared with delight, and he had to remind himself to be sensible. He felt like there was a huge, unpronounced “BUT” lingering at the end of her last sentence. Besides, seeing her like this was making his stomach clench. He didn’t want to keep this unresolved, but what could he possibly say to resolve this? He wished he could lighten the mood, at least. It was, after all, almost Christmas. Before he could come up with anything to say, she spoke again, almost as if she could read his mind. 

“I hope you two are still coming tomorrow.” 

“Yeah, sure,” he answered quietly, almost in a whisper. “Of course.”

“Good. Family needs to be together. That’s the most important thing,” she looked at him intently, a silent “tell me you understand” written all over her face. He nodded, his throat constricting. Sincerity be damned, then. Fine. He was already used to it. 

“The dinner starts as soon as the first star appears, so around four, but you can come earlier. Cooking is part of the festivities, really. We usually have so much fun, and I’m sure mama will be delighted to see you,” she added, sniffing, and he quickly searched his pockets for tissues, before handing her one. She blew her nose, while thanking him, and stuffed the tissue into her pocket, but her cheeks were still wet. Against his better judgment, he took another one to wipe the tears away. 

He was perhaps too gentle about it, and looking directly into her eyes while doing so probably wasn’t a very good idea either. She let him do it, though, returning his gaze as if hypnotized. He shoudn’t…

The moment was suddenly interrupted when the door in front of them opened and Lisa stepped out, holding a phone. 

“Yeah, they’re here.” Jake could see, rather than really hear her saying that. There was also no mistaking who was on the other side. She ended the call and stepped forward, huddling in just her cardigan. Jake groaned internally and opened the door, mentally preparing for the confrontation. He hadn’t thought about it up until now, accidentally making the situation even worse. At least judging by her face. Agnieszka made a move to get out of the car as well and he looked at her in alarm before he could consciously stop himself. 

“I think I should…” she motioned towards Lisa, confused. 

Of course, she was right. It was a natural thing to do, especially if they were going to spend Christmas Eve in Eulalia the next day. Still, Jake felt like he’d vomit any second… 

Lisa, however, shot one stone-cold glance her way and then continued to act as if Neszka was nonexistent, leaving her standing there awkwardly like an ice statue, frozen in an awkward welcoming gesture. “Where have you been?” she barked at Jake, her eyes teary. It was, in a way, a very stupid question, considering she knew the answer very well, as well as why. She wanted him to say it out loud. 

Jake was not going to play this game. He just hoped she wouldn’t want to destroy her opportunities, whatever it meant, by exposing him here and now. 

“Could you please calm down? I just went for a walk and got a bit lost.” He couldn’t hide the irritation in his voice, no matter how he tried. He expected the storm to get worse, but her next move surprised him. Lisa simply threw herself on him, wrapping her arms around him and burying her face in his shawl, just like Veela did a moment ago. He returned the embrace reluctantly. 

“I was just worried! I woke up completely alone and you weren’t answering the phone!” 

“Shhh, I’m sorry, that was shitty of me.” He had to admit that. He already had a history of leaving her alone because of Neszka. In the bed, in the room… and this was a whole new level. This vacation… simply didn’t start well. At the same time, Lisa was a pretty independent and capable woman. This was still a game. And it worked…

“I think I should go,” Neszka said weakly and made a move to get back in the car. 

“No, wait,” Jake broke the embrace and turned towards her. “Let’s settle this first. It was a bit rude.” While still looking at Neszka, the last sentence belonged to Lisa, who however made no indication that she was going to back away and show some decency. 

“That’s ok, Jake. I’ll see you tomorrow. This is obviously not the right time for unnecessary pleasantries.” She even tried to smile at Lisa, who did not reciprocate. 

“Yeah, I’m quite freezing. But he’s right. Uuum, Olalla, right? It was nice to meet you and I’m looking forward to tomorrow, she blurted out, while shaking violently in her sheer cardigan. Perhaps too violently… “Please, let’s go inside,” she turned to Jake. He had no other option but to obey, nodding irritably. 

“Ok, tomorrow then. Nice to meet you too,” Neszka muttered. Lisa successfully made her feel like a third wheel and utterly out of place, and Jake wasn’t going to let it slide. She was just reaching for the car door and he stopped her. 

“Wait. Thank you for the ride. You ok?” he asked and ran his hand down her arm. She smiled, but shrunk back from his touch, albeit as politely as possible. It didn’t go unnoticed. Lisa saw it and Jake noticed a glint of satisfaction in her eyes. 

Neszka excused herself once again and drove off, leaving Jake utterly miserable and frustrated. Back in the chalet, he threw his dead phone on the table with a clank. 

“You wanna play games? Fine! Let’s play. Get naked. NOW!”

Knowing what was to come, Lisa shot him a wicked smile. 

Josh

He put the phone down and remained sitting there unmoving for a few more minutes, staring stolidly at Jake’s abandoned piece of cake, the knot in his stomach refusing to loosen. 

He had woken up with a gnawing hunger, only to lose all appetite again as soon as he heard Lisa’s words, feeling like the whole universe plotted against him. How was he supposed to figure it out in this constant state of fear and anxiety? 

“He won’t tell her, but I might. Just make sure he doesn’t get near her, ok? It’s in your own interest, after all. We don’t want to ruin the holidays, do we?”

Yeah, well, he failed… and now he had to sit here and wait, wondering what the fuck was going on there. She sounded as if this was some sort of a game, but it was fucking not! I’m fucking uneasy because your fucking girlfriend is fucking nuts, you fucking idiot! And it was Jake’s fault. Again. 

Josh’s head was spinning, his hands were shaking, and the lack of sugar in his bloodstream only made it all worse. The orange juice helped a bit, but not entirely. So, with reluctance, Josh reached out across the table for the remaining chunk of poppy seed roll and crammed it into his mouth, regretting the decision almost immediately. It took all his remaining willpower to swallow the mouthful. 

As soon as the last wave of nausea subsided, he got up and returned back upstairs to Olalla’s private apartment. 

He had never been there completely alone before, never really paid attention to the pictures on the wall above her work desk. It was like a small, private exhibition, depicting different stages of Olalla’s life. A little girl with two ponytails sitting on a seesaw, or two slightly older cuties with toothless grins, standing in the kitchen next to an older woman wearing a headscarf with a colorful floral pattern. Their grandmother, no doubt. The next picture was a bit smudgy, but he recognized them both thanks to the previous photo. They were playing soccer with four other boys, their long braids flailing in the wind. 

There were also several pictures of her and her dad, hiking. Small, pre-teen, adolescent. She truly loved this. The last two frames contained snapshots from university days. She looked almost the same, and yet so different, with her hair cut in an asymmetric bob and her eyes full of life and mischief. He touched the picture with his fingertips, tracing the contours of her face just like he had done a few times before in the middle of the night. 

It took him a while to find her in the middle of a group of lively people in the second picture, all dressed in costumes. There she was, on the left, dressed as a pirate. His heart sank. A subconscious reaction, but a strong one nonetheless.

There was no photo of Dominik; instead, she had framed a small handwritten note. Josh couldn’t understand a word, but he had no doubt it was important. It was accompanied by a small pressed flower, attached to the piece of paper with a small band-aid… as if she could not bear to see his face, but she wanted to remember the feeling. Broken love frozen in time, forever cherished. 

His eyes traveled down to her desk. There was another tiny standing photo holder placed right next to the monitor, containing an older picture of him and Jake in their stage outfits. Black and white, day and night, and huddled together, with Josh’s arm wrapped around Jake in a brotherly hug.

Josh sighed. Oh, you do, baby, don’t you. What are we gonna do…

In an attempt to keep his racing mind occupied with something else, he focused on the contents of Agnieszka’s small bookcase. Most of the volumes there were in Polish, so he chose a huge traveler's guide for climbers full of beautiful photos. 

Sitting on a couch, he just leafed through it absentmindedly, not really paying attention to what he was looking at, until his eyes fell on a double page image of Hala Gasienicowa and he stared at it for several seconds until the pain in his chest reminded him that he was holding his breath. He exhaled, while closing his eyes, but the pain didn’t go away. It kept sitting on his chest, squeezing it tight. In his mind, he could hear her sing again while his whole body felt as if it was on fire. The air smelled of pungent mountain grass and sweet coconuts and blood and love and fear, all mixed together in a peculiar sensory cocktail. It still felt like a strange fever dream from which he remembered only bits and pieces. 

He longed for comfort and his traitorous mind led him back to a dimly lit wooden cabin in a place where there was no fear, only love. This love smelled like palo santo and toffees and hair oil infused with herbs. It had made Christopher’s dark, thick curls shine so bright and Josh had been playing with them, wrapping the ringlets around his fingers as if they were real rings. It used to mean something, before he threw it out of the window without thinking. 

He deserved nothing. 

Maybe Jake was right; he just kept hurting people. 

A few stray tears slid down his eyelashes and he blinked a few times to get rid of them. He had been crying way too many times lately, with all the important people either too far away or otherwise unreachable and distant. A few times he’d been considering calling mom, but shame always prevented him from doing that in the end. He had no idea how to make this right. 

The sound of the door opening freed him from his racing thoughts momentarily and he quickly wiped the remaining tears away before he gave her a questioning look. Olalla smiled back. Thank god for small mercies. 

She sat next to him, looked at the open book on his lap and sighed knowingly, before taking another deep breath. “I really am sorry. I guess I should have told you right away.” 

He looked at her, confused, before he remembered Jake’s half-arsed substitute story. “It doesn’t matter at all.” It really didn’t. He never cared. It’s not like they were a pair back then. Besides, there were more pressing questions right now. He closed the book and put it on the table. “So… you met Lisa? I hope she wasn’t rude…”

“Yes, I did. She’s a pretty girl. And, well… we’re not going to be friends,” she answered, pushing her lower jaw forward theatrically. It made him laugh and his face immediately squeezed in discomfort. 

“Your lips are completely chapped, Joshua. No wonder it still hurts. Wait a second,” Agnieszka breathed out while getting up from the couch and leaving him in the room alone again. Josh let out a long exhale. He was relieved, even if only slightly. Not great, not terrible. Could have been worse…

Olalla  was soon back from the bathroom with a small plastic jar containing some yellow ointment. 

“What’s that?”

“Marigold,” she answered as she sat back next to him before smearing some on his lower lip with her fingertip. She tapped carefully around the half-healed gash, careful not to graze the scab. “You’re awfully pale. Have you eaten?”

“Yeah,” he lied, closing his eyes while she applied some more on the upper lip. She then applied some more on the irritated skin above the bruise. It really was soothing. “Thanks, that’s much better.” 

“It matters to me, though,” she picked up on their previous conversation, referring to the kiss again, while screwing the lid shut. He really wished she would just drop the subject, but obviously, she had more to say. Much more to say… “I could be a bitch about it and just say that it was him kissing me, but the truth is that I didn’t stop him at first. And… I’m done with pretending,” she took a deep, shaky breath, as if bracing herself, “so I’m not going to say that it meant nothing.” She paused for a few seconds, letting the words sink in. Josh swallowed hard and waited patiently, while not really knowing what for. She continued after that brief pause. “I had promised myself not to do these things anymore. You know how I used to be. I just want you to know that…”

“Shhh.” He grabbed her cheeks in both of his hands and pressed a quick, gentle kiss on her lips. He could feel her relax.  “I know, baby. But our fight was about much more than just that. None of it is your fault, and I really don’t want you to worry about that.” 

“I figured. It’s true that I had asked him not to tell you, but a lot of things have happened since then; I got to know you a little bit more, and I’m quite certain you wouldn’t say or do anything harsh just because of one stupid kiss. Jake, on the other hand… but he always has his reasons, and I know you two are not telling me everything, but as long as you can figure it out, I don’t care anymore.”

“Why?”

“Because you’re here,” she answered, looking deep into his eyes, smiling. With his hands still cradling her cheeks, he traced slow circles with his thumb over her flushed skin. Without breaking eye contact, she continued: “I made a decision that night, and nothing has changed since then, even though I do need to admit that I missed you both. And also, part of me didn’t even believe that you’d ever come back. But you’re here. And last night… you…”

Her confession almost broke his heart again and he made his decision too, while the voice at the back of his head screamed ‘coward’. Wasn’t she just honest about her feelings for Jake? Shouldn’t he do the same? But he couldn’t. The last time he had been completely sincere and open about his complicated feelings, Taffy grabbed his jacket and left the hospital room without another word. And just a few days ago, he dismissed Josh’s feelings for her once again. For Taffy, love was always either-or, absolute and uncompromising. Josh had been right thinking that Olalla would probably understand him, he was not almost certain, but he was too much of a coward to risk it. So instead, he just kissed her again. It was a feather-like touch, but this time he let it linger for a little bit longer. 

“Last night should have been much better, actually. This is torture. You deserve more.”

Sighing, Agnieszka returned the kiss, just as lightly. “How long?” she asked, looking down at the stitches. 

“These are dissolvable. Should be gone by Friday. Monday tops.” 

“So I guess it’s mostly up to me until then.”

“What do you m…” Before he could finish the question, she straddled his lap and attacked his throat hungrily, licking a long stripe up to his earlobe, before she grabbed the earring with her teeth and pulled at it playfully, sending shivers down his spine. 

“What are you doing, Neszka,” he moaned. 

“You shush now. What does it look like?” she murmured against his skin and wrapped her left hand firmly around the other side of Josh’s throat. It was unexpected, but very exciting. “I’ve waited too long for this, so just let me play a bit, will you!” she hissed, while grazing his jugular with her bared teeth. 

Overwhelmed with her sudden attack, he tilted his head back, closed his eyes and succumbed to her touch completely, while she sucked on the tender skin behind his ear, making him whimper. In response, her grip on his neck only tightened. 

The effect was immediate, and her appreciative hum told him she could feel it too. Always responsive and always teasing, she moved her hips slowly a few times, grinding on his growing erection. Letting go of his throat, she straightened and grabbed a handful of his curls with her other hand, while looking down at him intently. He could see untamed wilderness in her eyes. It was dizzying, almost overwhelming. 

In a vain attempt to regain at least a semblance of dominance, he grabbed her hips and tried to steady her, and in response, she applied more pressure on his windpipe. “No!” She commanded hoarsely, her piercing stare now almost savage. He let out a strangled whine and his dick twitched. 

Emboldened, Agnieszka grabbed the hem of his long-sleeve and motioned to him to lift his arms up. He immediately obeyed, letting her pull the shirt over his head. “Jaki posłuszny chłopiec,” she crooned approvingly. “What an obedient boy.” Pressing her palms on his bare chest, she dug her fingernails into flesh below his collarbones and leaned forward, licking into the right corner of his parted lips. “I’m going to suck you dry now,” she whispered in his right ear. His response was almost involuntary; he thrusted his hips up, chasing the sensation elicited by her previous movements. 

Laughing softly, Agnieszka slid down on her knees and tugged at his waistline. Getting the hint,Josh lifted his hips a little and in one swift motion, she pulled his sweatpants down. His dick sprang up, the tip already glistening.

She grabbed his knees and spread his legs apart, making him yelp. Josh wasn’t even trying to fight it anymore; the sudden power that emanated from her kept him glued to the couch. Her warm palms gliding slowly up his inner thighs towards his crotch robbed him of the last feeble remnants of resistance. From now on, he was just putty in her hands, and he wondered if she had been planning this. 

Josh could feel her hot breath on his balls, and braced for whatever was going to follow, but instead, Olalla straightened up again, hooked her arms under his knees and pulled his whole body lower towards the edge of the couch, putting him in an even more vulnerable position. 

“Here, make yourself more comfortable.” She grabbed two cushions and stuffed them under his back for support, before she stood up and took off her own shirt and sports bra. “I’m leaving the jeans on, because this…,” she reached between her legs and cupped her clothed pussy, giving it one languid stroke, “is off limits now. But I might let you play with these if you promise you’ll be good.” To illustrate what she meant, Olalla bent forward, cupping her tits right in front of his face. “Fuck,” he muttered under his breath and stuck the tip of his tongue out mindlessly, being drawn to those hardened, rosy buds like a magnet. Impatient, she grabbed one of his wrists, planted a gentle kiss in the middle of his palm and pressed it on her chest. “Touch me,” she breathed out with urgency. He obeyed, cradling the soft mass almost hesitantly, as if he saw and touched it for the very first time. His own visceral reaction to the whole new situation almost startled him. Meanwhile, Olalla was really putting on a show, swaying gracefully above him. She tilted her head back and moaned. Like a siren. 

He watched her, mesmerized, with his lips slightly parted, and she returned the gaze. “God, you’re so pretty,” she whispered and let her fingertips slide down his chest, while still hovering above him. She did it again, and he could feel his cheeks getting hot. 

“Pretty…?”

“Yes.”

“I’m not…”

“I said shush,” she threatened and snaked her hand down between their bodies. Wrapping her hand around his hard dick, she gave it an appreciative squeeze, before she slid down to cup his balls, making him moan lewdly and loudly. He kept kneading her breast; it was so soft and plump, like a giant marshmallow, and he wished he could just stuff it in his mouth like a huge piece of soft candy and suck on her nipple hungrily like a babe. The fact that he couldn’t was almost maddening. Either he would have to do something soon, or she would. “Please…,” he whined. 

Olalla just smiled knowingly and got back on her knees, took a deep breath and blew hot air in between his legs. “You’re a tease, woman.

“I know.” 

She said something more, but Josh no longer heard, because she got dangerously close and a split second later, and she pressed her hot, flattened tongue at the base and his brain short-circuited. A few more languid catlicks, before she wrapped her lips around his balls, gently sucked them both in her mouth and he cried out in earnest. “Oh my god, that’s so…” 

“Good? 

Nonono, please don’t stop. Don’t talk. Just…

He wrapped his hand around his cock frustration, immediately expecting retribution. But not only she let him stroke himself, it seemed like she could read his mind again, because the velvety tip of her tongue was soon back where he desperately needed it. This time, though, she wandered in the opposite direction and he almost bit his wounded lip as a sudden surge of panic washed over him. 

It was too good, too familiar. Two worlds colliding. “Olalla, please…,” he whispered. 

“Not pleasant?”

“Too pleasant. Just… please…” 

She understood. Swatting his hand away, she wrapped her lips around his head this time and started sucking it like a lollipop. It felt wonderful…and safe. Soon after that, she swallowed him whole, changing pace and intensity just the way he liked it. She could do everything. Deepthroat, pressure, tender licks; she could play with him until he was a whimpering mess. 

Finally, he let out a telling, strangled moan. “Neszka…”

She blinked, telling him she understood, before she cupped his balls in her right palm and slid all the way down one last time, letting him shoot his cum down her throat. 

Finally, he relaxed, and his mind too. He stroked her hair as she rested her head on his thigh, smiling up at him. 

he closed his eyes, willing his heartbeat to calm down too, and his stomach rumbled. 

Maya, 24th December

Christmas Eve dinners in our house had always been lively. It’s hardly ever just up – the family. Every now and then, there’s someone naive enough to think that they could get a last-minute reservation somewhere in town. Sometimes, there are those solitary mountaineers intending to spend the evening alone in their room, but…well… They don’t know our mother. She would never allow it, not under her roof. 

Then there was Svetlana, a woman from Kharkiv who was helping to take care of the willa. 

This year, we had two vloggers from Ireland. A lovely couple; and the naive kind. It doesn’t matter. There are always enough chairs in our dining room. 

And, of course, the Kiszkas.

I have to admit, I had my doubts after the incident the previous day. And surely, while they were both outwardly friendly and civil towards each other, something wasn’t completely right. I could see it in Neszka’s eyes, too. Well, as long as she’s smiling, it’s not really my business. I’m always on a watchout, though.

The house was literally buzzing from the early morning. Most of the guests, including Josh, slept late. However, me, Neszka, mama and Svetlana, we started early, because mama insists on the traditional fifteen courses. You can imagine that’s a lot of work. 

Jake and his girlfriend arrived shortly before two in the afternoon. 

Jake was all smiles from the very start, but it was also quite obvious that he was trying to avoid his brother. He greeted my parents heartily, grabbed a spare apron and got to work almost immediately. It was a bit unusual, though very welcome, and I could finally see why mama liked him so much. 

Lisa joined the Irish couple by the table and spent most of the afternoon in their company. I could tell she was just suffering through the day. Personally, I wouldn’t care, but the way she was talking to, or even looking at Neszka made my blood boil. 

Shortly before four, we were almost finished; and all of us hungry as wolves. I helped myself to my second glass of mulled wine, while watching the hum. Neszka was playing with the kids and dad insisted on teaching Josh his favourite game of cards. 

“That’s quite bold.” It was Jake, pointing at my half-finished glass. “On an empty stomach, I mean.” I have to admit that the man has a charming smile. 

“No, it makes it all much more interesting,” I laughed. “Cheers.” He was drinking lemon water, but we clinked our glasses anyway. I returned back to observing the room and he followed my gaze. You know, I really couldn’t help but notice how he was looking at her. Men are simple creatures. When they’re longing, you can spot it from a mile away. I simply didn’t understand how she couldn't have noticed. Or maybe she did. Well, as I said, not my circus… 

Everytime she made the kids laugh, he smiled too. There was something dark in it, though. Tinged with sadness. The whole situation was making me more and more uneasy. 

“She’s a great aunt,” I remarked, breaking the silence that was getting rather uncomfortable. 

“I can see that,” he replied hoarsely. “It looks like she really loves them.”

It only reminded me of a rather difficult task that had yet to be done. “Oh yeah, she will miss them greatly,” I sighed.

“Miss them…?”

“Yes…uum, will you excuse me?” I left Jake standing by the main kitchen counter and approached Agnieszka slowly, telling the kids they should go play with daddy for a while.

“I have something to tell you. Mom and dad already know, and I want you to know before the dinner starts.” 

Neszka looked at me quizzically, but urged me to continue. 

“We’re moving to Frankfurt in January.” 

“Frankfurt? For how long?” My Jacek worked for a German company that offered both short and long term positions in a few cities outside Poland. Quite a few of his colleagues already made use of the opportunity and Agnieszka knew it, so I guess the news didn’t really come as a surprise, but… this was different. 

“We already sold the apartment in Katowice, Neszka. This is not temporary.” 

“What are you talking about? You’re moving moving to Frankfurt? Why?”

“You know why. He’s worried, and so am I. We have two small children. I couldn’t make it without him.”

“Nothing’s going to happen.” 

To that, I said nothing. How many people had thought that, only to lose everything? I’m sure Svetlana must have thought that too at some point; and a few days later, she arrived at Eulalia with one duffle and two plastic bags. It had been almost four years now since she had last seen her husband. At least she was safe. For now. 

I hate having such thoughts during times and days that are supposed to be happy and festive, but here we are. Neszka tried not to show her emotions. She reached for my glass with mulled wine and I offered it to her without hesitation. 

She took a healthy swig and sighed. “Well, but I’ll come visit at Easter. Probably not summer, but I’m not celebrating my birthday without you this time. You won’t get rid of me,” Neszka smiled mournfully. 

“Of course I won’t. Sounds like it won’t be any different from how it is now,” I laughed. “But we’re yet to see where the wind takes you.”

As always, she dismissed my hint. 

The rest of the evening was quite pleasant…well, if you don’t count violent stomach cramps and one insufferable, loud bitch. Maybe I’m biased, but that was my impression. Sue me. 

She and Jake stayed for the whole dinner, but excused themselves soon after. I think that he wanted to, and would have stayed longer, but I for one was rather glad that they did not. 

Agnieszka, 25th December

They woke up early that day. Agnieszka was up way before dawn, taking the opportunity to watch his relaxed face in silence. It was a peaceful morning, disturbed only by his light snores. 

Joshua had fallen asleep almost instantly the evening before. He had managed to just shed his clothes and was asleep before his head hit the pillow. So naturally, as soon as he opened his eyes, he excused himself and disappeared in the bathroom to take a “quick shower”. Quick is actually a bit of a stretch. In his case, fifteen minutes was the lowest limit. 

Agnieszka took the opportunity to prepare everything. It was Christmas morning, after all, the time when he was used to getting his presents. 

It had not been an easy task – to come up with a good gift. He had everything he needed or wanted, and when he didn’t, he simply bought it without thinking twice. 

There was one thing she could do, though. Maybe a bit of a cliche, not really very original, but still better and more sensible than some other options. Men, huh? 

He had seen her in a sundress a few times, but otherwise, her wardrobe was pretty boring and essentially “practical”, including her underwear. She had a few pretty pieces, but it all reminded her of her previous life, and she did not want that. She wanted to try something new, and to surprise him, too. 

The body ouvert seemed like a lacy monstrosity when she first saw it, but Maya finally convinced her to buy it. And sure enough, the woman looking back at her in the mirror was a pretty one. She watched her reflection for a few minutes, and finally smiled encouragingly, before she slid into a satin bathrobe. He should unwrap his gift first, shouldn’t he. 

Almost ready, she quickly checked the rest of the contents of the special box, brushing her fingers over the purple strap-on. Maybe it was a huge mistake, but she wanted to ask, at least. Carefully, she put the lid back on when Joshua’s phone lying haphazardly on the bed lit up and started buzzing. She glanced at it, frowning slightly, before she quickly brushed her hair again because she could no longer hear the water. The phone rang again. The same number. 

Joshua emerged from the bathroom a minute later, completely naked and with water dripping from his hair. Chaotic, as always. His face lit up when he saw her wrapped in satin and he smiled charmingly. “Hey! I heard the phone. Someone called?”

“Yeah,” she smiled back and put her hairbrush down on the dresser. “Someone called Taffy,” she replied matter-of-factly, but soon became alert when she saw how quickly the smile vanished from his face.

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