#i am glad austin was able to comfort me

[weedhorse69]

Every day find one piece of evidence that contradicts I'm not enough

Evidence to show you are enough

THURSDAY EVIDENCE

girl what i dont even know how to start contradicting i am not enough. im gonna play tennis with friends? does that count? i am enough to play tennis with chelsea specifically . does that count? who can count? who all here graduated??

Sunday evidence

Lyn attempted suicide and came to me afterwards (cuz her mom told her to lol)

[mrsevans90]

Puppy Love

Captain Syverson x OFC Emma Miller Part 12

Summary: Austin Syverson has returned to Texas after retiring from the military and starts his own contracting business. Syverson is used to being alone and thinks he prefers it that way. While at work he stumbles upon an injured and abused puppy. When he meets the new veterinarian in town, Emma Miller, he is immediately smitten with her. It turns out Emma has some baggage of her own. Will they be able to make it work? Or is it just a case of fleeting puppy love?

Pairing: Henry Cavill as Captain Austin Syverson x OFC Emma Miller 

Warnings: mentions of sex, anxious Sy, Nana (because her sassiness is a warning), language

MINORS DNI! Must be 18+

I do not authorize any copying/pasting, stealing of my work, or using my words as your own. 

This story is not beta’d. All mistakes are my own.

A/N: I am an imperfect person who makes mistakes. All that I ask is to please be kind and if you enjoy it then please comment and REPOST! I appreciate any love, comments, and reposts more than you could know. Thank you for reading! 

Part 11

Emma and I spent Sunday together in pure domesticity. We grocery shopped and then went back to her house so that she could start meal prepping. She cooked loads of food and then divided them in little containers for the both of us. I spent as much time sampling little bits of the food when she wasn’t looking as I did with my hands wrapped around her waist. She was so cute humming to the radio in her tiny short shorts that I couldn’t help myself but to touch her. I guess I wanted to just feel her since our routine was going to be off. The next week, Emma is busy preparing her house for her parent’s upcoming arrival. I knew I wouldn’t get to spend the weekend with her, so I was already dreading it. I’ve become so used to having her in my bed all weekend and spending time with her that I felt like I was going to have withdrawals from her. The plan was to have brunch with her and her parents on Saturday where she would introduce me as her official boyfriend. God, I’m a grown ass man about to meet my girlfriend’s parents and I’m nervous. I know her dad’s approval means the most and I’m not certain he’ll feel comfortable with his little girl being with the big, gruff army captain. Plus, the term “girlfriend and boyfriend” feel so juvenile at this point. About midday on Wednesday, while I’m installing flooring at a jobsite, my phone chimes with a text.

Mills’ Mama: How do you feel about weeknight sleepovers?

Sy: Sounds like the best damn idea you’ve ever had. Yours or mine?

Mills’ Mama: Maybe we can swap back and forth? Mine tonight and yours tomorrow? I’ll cook you dinner!

Sy: I’ll be there after work, Sugar, with the dogs and my bag. Can’t wait to see you.

Mills’ Mama: Can’t wait to kiss you.

Sy: Is that so?

Mills’ Mama: Mmhmm. Maybe even more. 😉

Sy: Darlin’. We still got 4 more hours of work, you better quit teasin’ me.

The afternoon rolls around and after a quick shower and packing some clothes and toiletries in my military duffle, I load the dogs up and head to Emma’s house. I’m nervous about sleeping somewhere else since I’ve been retired, but I need to get over it eventually. Emma met us at the door and after loving on the dogs she pulled my cheeks down into a deep kiss. Dinner was on the table when I made it inside and it smelled delicious. I went and set my bag down along with the dog bed I brought for Aika to help her arthritis in her bedroom and smiled as it was immaculately clean with the bed made. I felt Emma’s arms wrap around my waist and squeeze.

“Mmm.. I’m so glad you’re here.” She murmured.

“Me too, Sugar. Ya had a good day?” 

“Busy.” She mumbles into my back and I chuckle. 

“Ya gonna let me go so I can see that beautiful face?” I chuckle and feel her shake her head with a mumbled “no” into my back. I reach back and tickle her sides which has her instantly let go and jump back.

“There’s my girl.” I say as I lean in to kiss her. I try to deepen the kiss but she pulls back. 

“Supper’s on the table.” She reminds me before grabbing my hand and leading me to the table that the dogs were already corralled under, begging for scraps. 

We enjoyed our meal sharing relatively bland aspects of our day before quickly retreating to the bedroom. I was a little nervous about sleeping over for fear that I might have a nightmare, and reluctantly told Emma so when she asked me what was bothering me. She promised that if I was too uncomfortable she would understand, but I didn’t want to wimp out. Emma promised to distract me and before I knew it, she was quick to undress herself and show me a sexy little dark green lingerie number she told me she was wearing just for me. My worries momentarily forgotten, I spent the next hour of our night thoroughly fucking Emma and bringing her to a total of four orgasms. Sweaty and exhausted, we showered together and then climbed in bed. I wrapped Emma’s body tightly against my own and exhaled a sigh of relief.

“You feel okay about sleeping here?” Emma murmured sleepily.

“Yeah, I think I’ll be okay as long as you’re in my arms, Sugar.” 

“My favorite place to be.” She sighs.

Just like that, we fell asleep wrapped in each other and I got one of the best nights of rest I’ve had in a while surrounded by Emma and the scent of her perfume.

The rest of the week went well and before I knew it, I was getting ready to meet Emma and her parents at the diner for brunch Saturday morning. I of course, arrive about 10 minutes early because the military man in me can’t seem to break that habit after years of having it engrained into my personality. I go ahead and get us a table before shooting a text to Emma letting her know where I’m at. A few of the local people I know stop by the table to say hello, or catch up which helps my anxiety about impressing her parents and before I know it, they’re here. I catch sight of Emma in a pretty pink sundress with a smile so bright that has my heart aching and my pants feeling a bit tighter. I politely stand up when Emma makes her way over to me and presses a light kiss to my lips which surprises me. I extend my hand immediately as she introduces us.

“Mom and Dad, I’d like to introduce you to my boyfriend, Austin Syverson.”

“It’s nice to meet you both. I’ve heard a lot about you as Emma has been looking forward to your visit.” I say as I shake hands with her mother and father who introduce themselves as Diana and James.

“It’s so nice to meet you, Austin. Emma has told me bits and pieces about you but she keeps a lot of things to herself so we were itching to meet you.”

“My descriptions wouldn’t do him justice.” She replies.

We all sit down in the booth and take a look at the menus before ordering and handing our menus back to the waitress.

“So, Austin, tell us about yourself.” James says and I take a deep breath before responding.

“Well, I’m a retired military captain who decided to open my own contracting company when I got back to Texas. I didn’t initially plan on it but I bought a house that needed a ton of work and found a lot of appreciation for fixing up myself. I ended up liking it so much that I decided to start my own company which is doing pretty well. I’m really close with my grandparents who own a farm about ten miles from here, and I have two dogs that I care about a lot. That’s how I met Emma, was taking my dog to the vet.”

“Interesting, Emma said you were in the military but didn’t say you were a captain. What division?” James inquires.

“Army, Special Forces.” 

“Damn. I’ve bet you’ve seen some things.” You don’t know the half of it.

“Yes sir, but I try not to focus on it. Easy to do with work, my dogs, and spending time with this pretty girl.” I say as I smile down at Emma.

“She did tell me that you were very helpful in getting all of the security installed at her home, so I appreciate that. Especially after that idiot stalked her all the way out here.” James says.

“I was happy to help out, and it gave me piece of mind that she would be safe at all times. Most importantly that she continued to feel safe at her home. That was my number one concern.”

“I agree. We tried to convince her that she should move back, at least closer to home, but she’s not budging. I guess we now know why, seeing as she has you here.” Diana replies with a smirk.

“She is sitting right here, you know.” Emma says and I chuckle. Sassy girl doesn’t like being talked about.

“I’ve told you, I’m happy here and I’m not going to run away from my problems. I’ve started a new life for myself and it makes me happy.”

I beam at her proud of her for not backing down when it’s her life and her decision.

“All I ask is that you take care of her. I know she’s grown, but I look at her and still see my little girl dancing in a princess dress to her favorite Disney movie.” 

“I promise, sir. Emma’s safety and happiness are my priority.” I look him dead in his eyes and he nods. Emma intertwines our fingers together under the table and squeezes my hand tightly.

“So, tell us more about your family. Parents?” Diana asks and Emma immediately interrupts.

“Mom, no.”

“No, darlin’ it’s alright. My father left when I was a toddler and remarried and I don’t have any contact with him. My mother passed away from breast cancer several years ago. I have an older brother, Mark, who is happily married and they have a little girl. They live in Tennessee so I don’t get to see them as often as I’d like. My grandparents and I are extremely close though and I see them every Sunday for lunch.”

“That’s lovely. I’m so sorry to hear about your mother. Cancer is such an awful thing.”

“It sure is.”

The conversation quickly moves on to how hard Emma worked to get the guest bedroom ready for their visit, where she praised me for doing the heavy lifting, before shifting to Emma’s veterinary practice. Emma explained in more detail how we actually met when I found an abused Mills behind a property I was working on.

“We are huge animal lovers; I guess that’s why Emma became a veterinarian. You’ll have to introduce us to your dogs at some point.”

“I’d be happy too. Mills doesn’t have the best manners yet, but he’s still a pup so he’ll get there.”

“We’ll have to introduce you to his Nana and PawPaw at some point too. His nana is an absolute trip! She is your typical southern sassy woman and I adore her.” Emma boasts and I smile. I know of a way to make Nana really happy if Emma wants to introduce them.

“Y’all are welcome to join us for lunch tomorrow. I know Nana would be tickled pink.”

“Oh my gosh, really? That’s not too short notice? I wouldn’t want to impose.” Emma responds excitedly.

“You know that woman will be absolutely thrilled if you and your parents join us. She always overcooks anyway. I’ll call her to make sure just for your peace of mind but I promise she’d love it. They don’t get many visitors these days so it will give her something to look forward too.” I smile, glad that the two most important women in my life seem to want to spend time together.

We finish eating and I pay for our entire meal as I had discreetly requested from the waitress when I arrived before everyone. James seemed absolutely shocked that I had done that but gave me a strong handshake and thanked me for the meal. I feel like I made a good impression but it’s likely too soon to tell. Diana hugged me quickly before Emma wrapped her arms around my neck and pecked a chaste kiss to my lips before they left to go explore the town with the promise to call me in a bit. I got in my truck feeling good about the experience before calling Nana.

“Well hello my darlin’ grandson!” She answered as lively as ever.

“Hey Nana. How y’all doing today?”

“Just as well as ever. We’re still kicking so at our age that’s all we can ask for.” She jests.

“What about you? I missed our Sunday lunch last week. Please tell me Emma’s coming tomorrow?”

“Emma’s parents are in town visiting, but I figured if y’all were up for it they could all come?” 

“Well I’ll be damned!” She crows and I have to hold my phone back from my ear slightly.

“Now, what do you mean by that?” 

“My sweet grandson is finally getting serious about a woman! Enough to let us meet not only her, but her family as well? Hot damn!”

“D’you curse like that in church, Nana?” I joke, making fun of her southern Baptist persona.

“Only if the sermon’s good enough.” She retorts.

“I’ll take that as a yes, then.”

“Of course! Oohh now I gotta be thinking about what all I’m going to cook.”

“Don’t go to any trouble, Nana. This isn’t some big thing. Whatever you had already planned will be perfect.”

“Nonsense. We need to make a good impression so her daddy will agree to let Emma marry you.”

“Slow down, woman! It’s not that serious yet. We haven’t even said I love you. Emma was telling them about you and PawPaw and it just came up. Promise me you won’t scare them off.”

“Boy, don’t make me smack you. I will be my typical charming self and they will love me. That’s not what I’m worried about. I need to make a good impression for you.”

“I met them and I think they like me.”

“Well, I’m going to make sure they love you.”

“I’m regretting this already, Nana.” I sigh. 

“Is PawPaw around?”

“Yes, let me get him…JOE! Austin’s on the phone!” She yells away from the receiver and I can’t help but shake my head and smirk endearingly.

“Hello?”

“PawPaw, how are ya?”

“I’m just fine, son. What have you done that’s got your Nana all in a tizzy? She’s running around crazier than a betsy bug.”

“Well, I’m bringing Emma and her parents to lunch tomorrow.”

I hear a low chuckle into the receiver.

“All I can say is, you’ve done it now. Hope you and Emma are prepared for an overzealous ole’ woman chatting her parent’s ears off tomorrow.”

“What was I thinking, PawPaw? Do me a favor, try to get her to be on her best behavior. She doesn’t listen to anyone but you.”

“Son, that woman doesn’t listen to anyone, myself included. Just take a deep breath and hope she doesn’t pull out the baby books.”

“Jesus. Hide them for me, please PawPaw.”

“Will do. Try not to worry. See ya tomorrow.”

“Alright, love ya Pops.”

“Love you too, Son.”

I take a deep breath and place my head on the steering wheel as I think about what I’ve subjected myself too. I ought to warn Emma’s parents before we get there tomorrow.

I meet up with Alex since I haven’t seen him on the weekends since I’ve started dating Emma and caught up with him. We played a few video games at his place before I grabbed some dinner on the way back to my house. I hated how empty my house felt without Emma there. Already she was this presence that I craved and even found myself wishing she left some of her things here so that I could more easily imagine her in my home. We had texted a few times throughout the afternoon but I wanted her to enjoy her time with her parents since they would be leaving Sunday afternoon. Emma had even invited me to go out to dinner with them but I just didn’t want to monopolize their time together. After my shower, I was trimming up my beard when I saw Emma facetiming me.

“Hey, Sugar. How was your afternoon?”

“It was good! I took my parents to the clinic and showed them everything before we went to the little town museum. After that, we did a little shopping for my house and I bought patio furniture for the backyard which will be great. Then we went to dinner and came back here to relax a bit. I’m exhausted.” She says dramatically while flailing back on her bed.

“I bet, you had quite a busy day.”

“What did you get up too?”

“Not much, just hung out with Alex. Played some video games with him before grabbing take out and coming home to the pups.”

“Wish I was there.” “Me too. I really found myself craving your presence here, Sugar. You’ve gotten me spoiled by staying here every weekend.”

“Aw, I miss it there too. I really liked our weeknight sleepovers by the way. I suggest we just start staying together every night.” I smile at her.

“You sure about that?” 

“Mhmm. I sleep so good cuddled up to my big teddy bear.” 

“I sleep the best with you too. Even though you put your ice-cold feet on me.” I say and she giggles.

“You’re always so warm! I’ll freeze tonight without you here to warm them.” She giggles while stifling a yawn. 

“Sugar, you’ve had a long day. Why don’t you go ahead and get some sleep. I’ll see you at mine tomorrow before going to Nana’s?” I ask and she nods.

“Okay, goodnight baby.”

“Night, Darlin’. Sleep well.”

The next day, I woke up at my usual time and after some breakfast I went ahead and gave both of the dogs a bath. Mills has turned into such a water loving dog, and I could hardly keep him from chasing the water hose while I cleaned him. After that, I decide to get a decent work out in my garage/makeshift gym. Since I’m already sweaty, I then cut the grass with the lawn tractor since I have such a large yard before heading inside and cleaning up a bit. Emma’s parents are going to be coming with her to mine so we can all ride together so I want to make sure everything looks good. Fortunately, the military is strict on tidiness, so other than wiping down the counters and taking out the trash there wasn’t that much to be done. Lastly, I cleaned myself up with a shower and put on some fresh clothes. Emma texted that they were on their way and so I played with the dogs a little bit before their arrival. When I heard Emma’s jeep pulling down the gravel driveway, I met them out on the front porch. My house was something that I was really proud of, taking a broken down, weathered Victorian style home and making it new and beautiful again was special. I just didn’t look like the type of person who owned a beautiful historic home with a wraparound porch. I know that Emma loves my home and I hope her parents do too. 

“Austin, your home is absolutely gorgeous!” Diana praises as she steps from the car. Emma walks up and hugs me tightly.

“Thank ya, ma’am. I’m pretty proud of it.”

“It must be worth a fortune.” She says and Emma rolls her eyes.

“It certainly wasn’t when I bought it. Roof leaked, porch was entirely rotten, plumbing and electrical were both in need of repair and a tree had fallen on the southwest corner from a storm. It sat abandoned for years. I grew up here and always thought it was such a shame because it had great bones, just needed a lot of work. When I moved back and saw it was still here, I jumped on it without giving it too much thought. I was needing something to keep me busy and it certainly did.” I say.

“Well, I’m sure it must’ve taken so long to do but you did well.” James adds.

“Thank you, I worked on it for about 10 months before I could get it to where I could live in it while repairing it, before I moved in and spent another year and half making all of the repairs and updates that it needed. Come on in, I’ll show you around and let you meet the pups.” 

Emma and her parents come inside where Mills races towards them. All of them, including Emma’s dad squat down to allow Mills to assault them all with puppy kisses. Aika’s a bit slower and not as forthcoming, but she of course comes straight to Emma who gives her all the attention and ear scratches.

I give them a short tour of the house before it’s time to head to Nana’s house. We all ride in Emma’s jeep but I drive and Emma enthusiastically tells them about my grandparents. I feel like it might be a good time to warn them about Nana. 

“Just so ya know, I love her very much but my Nana is one of a kind, in a very exuberant way. She thinks because she’s old she can just say whatever comes to her mind, but she’s been like that my whole life. Hopefully she won’t offend anyone. PawPaw is a very quiet, taciturn man but I figure he has to be to have been with Nana for as long as they have.”

“I’m sure they are just lovely, Austin.” Diana chirps from the backseat.

Emma reaches over and grabs my hand before winking at me. We quickly arrive and I help Emma out of her car before we head inside.

“Nana?” I yell as I open the door.

“Ohhh, Joe! They’re here!” I hear Nana chirp before she comes fluttering towards the front door that we’ve all entered.

“Hi! I’m Daisy! This is my husband Joe, and we are Austin’s grandparents. I’m so glad y’all could join us for lunch today.”

“Nana, this is Diana and James, Emma’s parents.” They shake hands and Nana wraps Emma into a tight hug.

“It’s so nice to meet you. Thank you for having us out here on such short notice.” James says.

“So nice to meet the parents of the most wonderful woman. Emma here is an absolute gem!” Nana dotes and I can’t help but smile. PawPaw gently slaps my shoulder and winks at me without anyone seeing.

“Aw thank you, Emma just adores you and tells us that you are a wonderful cook!” Diana adds.

“Oh that’s just the sweetest, but really I cook everything in butter or lard so it has to taste good!” Nana says and they all laugh. 

“Y’all come on in and make yourselves at home. Lunch is on the table. I’ve got southern fried chicken, steamed broccoli and carrots, mashed potatoes, and cornbread. I also have plenty of salad and fruit in case any of you are allergic or not a fan of meat.” Nana explains and I feel my stomach rumble. It all sounds so good to me.

“That sounds absolutely mouth-watering.” James says and I quickly agree with him.

We all sit down after stacking our plates sky high as Nana goes about filling drinks for everyone. Nana asks PawPaw to bless the meal like she usually does and the room is silent as he does so. My PawPaw has always been a man of few words, but he commands a room when he does speak and I almost feel like he saves those moments for times he considers most meaningful, like this.

We all get tucked into our meal and Nana is absolutely loving the constant praises of her cooking. She knows she’s an amazing cook, but she’ll never hesitate to take a compliment for it. We make light conversation throughout the meal talking about Emma’s parents in Alabama and where they work, etc. 

“Tell us about Austin growing up. I bet he helped a lot here on the farm.” Diana asks.

“Oh, he’s always been the hardest worker. We knew Mark never wanted much to do with the farm, but Austin took pride in even the worst jobs like mucking horse stalls even as a kid. Joe and him spent plenty of time out there building fences, sheds, feeding and watering the animals. He’s been such a help to us over the years.” Nana said as she pats my hand on the table.

“I was going to pull some photo albums out to show you all but I can’t seem to remember where I’ve put them.” Nana admits and I subtly glance at PawPaw whose expression of steel doesn’t change but I know that I owe him for that. 

“I’ll keep looking and show them to Emma next time she comes around. He was such a cute boy with wild curly brown hair like his mama. I feel like every time she bought him new pants, he’d hit another growth spurt. We couldn’t keep up!” Nana chuckles and I blush slightly.

“Tell us about Emma as a kid. I bet she was the cutest.” I interrupt and Diana quickly jumps in to brag about her beautiful daughter, not that I could blame her.

“Oh, Emma was just the prettiest little thing, but always very independent. She was stubborn but only about things she really cared about. She once rescued a baby squirrel, Pip, who she found covered in ants on the driveway and almost dead. She was about 11 and was adamant she was going to nurse it back to health. She fed it formula from a syringe every few hours and I swear, that thing would come back to her when she called it like a dog. We knew then, she was serious about becoming a veterinarian. She’s always been very compassionate and had a love for animals.”

“How sweet! What else did she do growing up?” Nana urges.

“Well, she was in high school and competitive cheer. She also did a few pageants and won some of them before she begged to stop.”

“I didn’t know you were in pageants?” I ask her and she blushes.

“I don’t usually tell anyone that. It was in an effort to get scholarship money towards college but I just couldn’t deal with the catty dramatic girls.” She says timidly.

“I can’t blame you for that! Teenage girls can be just awful, especially in that setting. Little poisonous bitches!” Nana says and Emma busts out laughing which causes us all to start cackling. Oh nana.

After we eat lunch, Nana has us all come out to the back porch to digest a little bit before slicing into the strawberry cake she made. I felt like I was going to puke if I ate another bite, but I’ve never turned down Nana’s strawberry cake. It’s delicious. We all continue chatting about different things with the occasional goat bleating or cow mooing in the background. I couldn’t be more relieved at how down to earth Emma’s parents are. Her dad accepting me was one of my biggest concerns, but we found ourselves in easy conversation about all sorts of things. I was also relieved that they seemed to flock to Nana just like she predicted. By the time we needed to leave, Nana had packed everyone a plate of food to take home and was hugging Emma’s parents like they were old friends. 

“Y’all better come visit us for lunch the next time you visit!” Nana hollered at James and Diana who readily agreed.

“After a meal like that, we may just come back to visit you and Joe instead of Emma and Austin!” James joked and they all just cackled. Emma leaned against my arm as she had a hand on my bicep and smiled up at me. I kissed her forehead before opening her door and thought Nana was just going to float away in her excitement. 

Everyone thanked them again for having us and I promised that I’d call Nana in the morning with a peck to her cheek.

I drove us straight back to Emma’s so that I could see her parents off with her. After lots of goodbye hugs and kisses from Emma and a surprise hug from them both to me, they drove away seeming relaxed and supportive of the life she has built herself here. 

Emma pulled me back inside and kissed me deeply.

“They love you. Thank you for being so wonderful.” She said.

“They’re great people. It’s easy to see why I like you so much, because they raised you. So thank you for being the best girlfriend I’ve ever had.” I tell her. Mushy but true.

Emma turns and walks to her room and I’m a little surprised because she walked away so abruptly. Did I say something wrong?

“Sugar?”

“Sugar, did I say something wrong?”

“Nope, never. I’m just packing a bag so I can go home with you.” She smiles as she throws a clean pair of vet scrubs into the bag.

“I sure like the sound of that…home with me.” 

“Me too.” She smiles and kisses me softly.

Ten minutes later, we are back in her jeep headed to my house to be together with the dogs and it feels so right.

Part 13

Taglist: @shellyshellshell, @henryownsme, @caramariehurst, @beck07990, @mollymal, @kingliam2019, @syversonswife, @identity2212, @starfirewildheart, @hannah9921, @wa-ni, @kneelforloki, @cutedoxie, @enchantedbytomandhenry, @foxyjwls007, @geralts-yenn, @courtlynwriter, @corrie1013, @squeezyvalkyrie, @summersong69, @livisss, @mayloma, @uunotheangel, @warriormirkwood, @sofiebstar

Authors Note: SO sorry this took so long. My kid brought home a stomach virus from school and it slowly went through each family member. I didn't think it was ever going to end but we are FINALLY feeling better and no longer cleaning up vomit. Hope y'all have a great week!

[asshlyyyy]

Absolute Silence Pt. 2

Part One | Part Three

I have no idea how well the first part did considering I finished this before posting the first part. However, thank you so much for all the love and affection on the first part if you left any! I am still working on my drafts and I hope to get those all finished before making my way back to Fairytale and Personal Nurse!

Masterlist

Pairing: Austin Butler x Deaf!Fem!Reader

Warnings: Some information may be inaccurate, swearing, Olivia is sort of a bitch but not really, spelling and grammatical errors. Let me know if I missed anything!

Word Count: 2k

You took a step back and smiled. Your dress was finally complete, and in perfect timing also. You and Austin were flying out to Nice in a couple of days for the Cannes film festival. To finally see the premiere of Austin’s hard work. You two decided to match in a subtle way. Austin would wear a black suit with a dash of color on his pin. A dark blue flower. You would wear a dark blue dress with black lace over top. 

You saw the flickering lights and turned around to find Austin. You smiled at him and showed him the dress. You pretty much always wore your cochlear, but Austin never knew when you were taking a break and when you weren’t.

“What do you think?” You asked him. Austin smiled and made his way over. He wrapped his arm around your waist and pulled you in closer.

“I  think you’re going to look beautiful.” He stated and pressed a kiss to your head. You let out a hum of comfort and smiled. You wrapped your arm around his torso and placed your hand on his chest. 

You two have been together for almost five years now. You wouldn’t have it any other way either. These past years have been amazing, even if there was a global pandemic sprinkled in with it. You ended up moving in with Austin during that time. You spent time helping him with his role in Elvis. You spent time digging deeper into each other. You meant that on a more innocent note then… not saying you didn’t though. 

“I can’t wait for this trip. I’ve always wanted to go to Paris.” You told him. You turned your head upwards to face him. 

“I’m glad you’re coming with me. I really need you there.” Austin admitted. You shook your head lightly.

“You don’t need me there Austin. You did amazing.”

“Maybe in your eyes. But I need my clover there.” You blushed at his words and shook your head. He really knew how to make your heart beat faster. Even if you two have been together for a long time. He was able to still surprise you. 

“You’re a dork,” you teased him and pulled away. Austin chuckled in response and pulled you back in. 

“Maybe, but you make me the dork I am.” He said as he leaned down and pressed his soft lips against your own. You hummed against the feeling and kissed back. 

You got to France not too long afterward. You two were in your hotel room getting ready. You had already got on your dress and were working on getting your makeup done. You saw Austin appear closer to you from the mirror. You looked at him through the mirror and smiled. 

“Hi, Austin.” You smiled and continued to put on your makeup.

“Hey beautiful,” he smiled and pressed a kiss to your head. “You look beautiful.” You blushed at his words and shook your head.

“Oh please, I’m nothing compared to your handsome looks. I’ll be the ugly nobody standing next to you.” You told him as you placed down the lip gloss you had just applied. 

“Never call yourself ugly, Clover, because you are far from it.” He pushed a piece of loose hair behind your ear.

“Hm, well… your opinion is the only one that matters.” You smiled and leaned closer to him and kissed him. Something that still drove you crazy to this day. There was nothing like kissing the love of your life. 

“May I make a suggestion?” Austin questioned. You nodded as you stood up.  “I think it’ll be smart if you don’t want your cochlear. Only while we’re outside with the press.” You looked at him confused.

“You want me to go silent?”

“It’s going to get real loud, clover. People will be yelling, it’s going to be chaotic. You can put it on once we get in the theater. I just don’t want you to get overstimulated.” He explained to you. You nodded taking in all the information. He had a point. When you were introduced to new sounds all at once you tended to get… a bit overwhelmed. 

“Okay,” you said softly and slipped the device off. You handed him the device and smiled sadly. Austin took the device and slipped it into his pocket for safekeeping. 

“Trust me, clover. It’s for the best.” You nodded once again and wrapped your arms around him. It was hard to take away your hearing when you only just got it. Maybe you were overreacting but… it was still hard. 

“I trust you,” you quickly signed and pulled away. Elvis gave you a slight smile and shortly you guys were off. 

You two got into the car and were on your way to the Cannes film festival. Your first festival, and probably not your last one. You looked outside the window and looked at the ocean. It was certainly a site to behold. A site that you could never get from your California apartment.  

Austin held your hand on his lap and his thumb rubbed patterns again your skin. You were nervous, but you knew he had to be more nervous. Considering he said that he needed his lucky clover by his side. It would be your first public appearance with him. You weren’t sure if you were ready for all the… for all the drama. 

But you knew better than to think about that. You knew that Austin loved you and that’s all that mattered. That was all that meant anything in the end. You had Austin’s love, and he had yours. 

You two came to the location and you felt immediately overwhelmed. There were hundreds of people. Hundreds of cameras. Austin was definitely right about you not wearing your device. The door was pulled open and Austin stepped out. Well… it was now or never. Austin reached his hand towards you and grabbed your hand. You smiled and gave his hand a squeeze before you made your way outside. You had no idea what was happening right now. You figured people were yelling to get Austin’s attention, but other than that… you were clueless.

“Don’t let go of my hand okay?” He quickly signed to you. You nodded and gave his hand a tight squeeze. You stood near Austin’s side the whole time. 

You felt out of place… You felt… you felt weird. Maybe it was because people were pushing cameras in your face, and trying to communicate with you. In reality, though, you were too overwhelmed to know what was going on. 

You felt like you were out there for hours. But, before you knew it you were sitting down in the theater. Austin pulled your device out of his ear and handed it to you. You thanked him with a smile and put it on.

“You okay?” He asked once he knew you could hear him. You nodded your head gently.

“Yeah, I’m okay. A bit overwhelmed but… I’ll manage.” You admitted to him. 

“I’m sorry clover,” he whispered, “but the hard parts are over. We enjoy the movie and then we head back to the hotel room.” He explained to you. 

“Thank you.” you whispered back and laid your head on his shoulder.

“Hey Austin,” Olivia came over with a smile on her face. She saw you and gave you a wave. You returned her wave with a smile. 

“Hey Olivia, everything all good?” He asked her. She nodded and sat down next to him.

“Oh yeah, I’m just excited to finally see the movie.” She admitted.

“I’m a bit nervous, but I got my lucky clover so.” Austin smiled as he gave your hand a squeeze. God, this man was going to be the death of you. You melted against his touch and closed your eyes ever so slightly.

“Oh please, you’re going to be amazing. We all are.” She continued on. The two of them spoke up until the movie started. Well, almost up to the movie, because Austin excused himself.

“So, Austin tells me you’re deaf?” Oliva turned to speak to you. That was a weird question to ask someone who was deaf. 

“Um… yeah.” You replied with a forced smile. It wasn’t like there was anything wrong with asking that. It was more or less the fact that she was asking someone if they were deaf. 

“That must be so hard,” she shook her head gently. You shrugged in response. Sure, it was hard at some points, but you’ve been living with it for years at this point.

“Well, I grew up like this so.” You replied and pulled off your device. You’ll make sure to put it back on when the movie starts, but for now, you didn’t want to listen to her anymore. You were positive she was still talking to you, but at this point, you just wanted to be left alone. 

Before you know it Austin came back with some water and a closed captioning device. You felt your heart do a flip. Sure you were able to hear movies now, but you still liked to be able to read what was going on.

“Sorry bout that, I’m back.”

“I took it off. Olivia was bothering me and I just wanted to be left alone. I’ll put it back on when the movie starts.” You quickly explained to him. He nodded his head and sat down. He handed you the device so that you could put it in place. 

“That girlfriend of yours is rude,” Olive said to Austin. Who in return looked at her confused. You have never been rude ever before in your life. Well, as long as he has known you. 

“I’m sorry?”

“She just started to ignore me. I mean, who even does that? I was speaking to her.”

“She probably didn’t mean to. She doesn’t have her device on. So, she can’t hear a single thing that’s happening around her. I also don’t appreciate you calling my girlfriend rude, because she is the nicest human being I have ever met in my life.” Austin stated and turned away from her. You looked at Austin confused.

“You okay?” You asked him. Austin nodded in return and opened his water bottle.

“Yeah, just Olivia,” he signed back. You nodded and waited for the movie to start. It didn’t take too much longer until the movie started. You slipped your device back on and grabbed Austin’s hand and gave it a squeeze. You were so proud of him. 

When the movie came to an end, everyone rose from their seats and clapped. It was truly a brilliant movie, and Baz had a certain direction he took and it worked. The movie was beautiful… your boyfriend was beautiful. His heart and soul really were put to work for this movie and you could tell.  

You peered down at your boyfriend and saw that he started to tear up. You smiled softly at your pretty boy and pulled him up onto his feet. You wrapped your arm around him and pulled him close. He deserved this attention. For all the hard work he did… he deserved it. 

The two of you got home a little bit later. You kicked off your heels and turned your back towards Austin. You felt his hands on your shoulders before they went toward your zipper. You were entirely pooped after the day you just had. You just wanted to spend the rest of the night in with Austin. 

“I still can’t believe they stood for twelve minutes. It couldn’t have been that good…” Austin said in disbelief. You let out a light laugh and shook your head. 

“Well better believe it because it happened.” You turned to face him once he was done. 

“Well… it wouldn’t have happened without you.” He admitted. You smiled and pressed yourself up to your tippy toes.

“Oh please, I just stood on the sidelines.” You said softly as you undid his bow tie. Austin placed his hands on your hips and gave them a squeeze.

“You did so much more clover. So so… so much more.” He whispered and leaned down to kiss you deeply. 

Mutual Taglist: @darlinboypresley @emmymaehereeeeee @venus-haze @austinstyles

[for-those-who-wait]

i have a lot of intrusive thoughts and have compulsive tendencies i do when reading (having to scroll/turn a page a certain way, etc) which sometimes help with them (although sometimes, they just remind me what i was thinking about in the first place) and i’m not diagnosed with anything so i won’t say i am but reading your fic has quieted my brain and i was able to comfortably scroll down with sometimes not needing to do the compulsions

so anyway thats a lot of words to say thank you Austin i appreciate you :D

I'm really glad that my work can be something that quiets the brain! I'm aware it can be a loud and busy place sometimes :') so I'm very happy that it helps you <3

I appreciate you taking the time to let me know, thank you!

[lindszeppelin]

Hi Lindsay!

I’m so glad you are taking care of yourself. I have been, too. I have been tempted to flee tumblr entirely in the past few weeks because it seems like most of the fandoms I’m am involved in are just fucking psycho! Lol. For now I’m staying.

I almost hope that once this debacle is officially over (I say officially because you know I firmly believe they’ve been over for many months), Austin will be able to re-tool his visibility to enjoy more privacy. I’ve been reading about various celebs who have consciously stepped back from the spotlight to nurture their life and craft. No two cases are the same in how they do it, but they all describe regaining control of their exposure and therefore peace of mind. I think Austin will move toward that approach because he’s not a fame whore like you know who. And we’ve seen repeatedly that he doesn’t get papped unless she’s using him for her latest pathetic attempt at getting attention. So it just seems like the natural next step.

On a brighter note: the stream of bts content from Caught Stealing is kind of unprecedented! So many amazing photos!

Nice to see you on my dash! Keep on taking care of you.

Love, MJ

Hi MJ!! Yeah the fandom is fucking psycho like, makes me wanna rip my hair out at how stupid people are and the drivel they spout from their mouths. That energy is rotten like a bad apple. I am sitting comfortably from the sidelines seeing everything knowing that this shit is ending. And once Austin is free for good then we can go back to what actually matters, which is him and his career. I will support him until the day that I die.

His team stated so themselves that he knows he wants to be with a normal girl “without famous parents”, once he finds that girl then he can finally be safe in the arms of a woman that loves him fiercely and unconditionally. Cannot wait for that day to arrive for him. He deserves nothing but good things in his life.

[fairchilds-glasses]

Hii Sophie, it's Austin, I'm back and I was randomly rewatching the Chucky series and saw the signs of autism with Jake, Devon and Caroline:

For starters; hyperfixatation. We already know that these three seemed to almost be obsessed with their passions/hyperfixatations on a tremendous amount. Like the amount of dolls Jake had stored, Devon creating a whole fucking podcast and having posters, Caroline's fit over not having Chucky, etc.

Second; monotone or too expressive expressions. Jake seems really expressive, while Devon and Caroline seem to have this straight face usually all the time. And the eyes - like they're analyzing every single detail about what's in front of them or their enviorment.

Special interest; like I said, Devon is obsessed with true crime and still is, Jake is obsessed with dolls, art, sculptures, Caroline is obsessed with Chucky and dolls and murder. Like Devon was literally reading true crime at 7 am.

Difficulty making friends; Devon doesn't really seem to have this problem A LOT but it's really shown in S2 how he has a slight difficulty with making friends that probably only adapted with his mom. Jake is repeatedly remarked and shown to have difficulty making friends, and so does Caroline, said by Lexy that she "rarely even speaks" meaning Caroline is probably selectively mute as well.

Black and white thinking; this seems to only really be shown with Devon. In S2, he seems to have a black-and-white certain way of seeing and overlooking things, which is one of his greatest traits and his greatest problem. With Chucky, he barely bothered to hear anyone out since his black-and-white thinking.

Stimming: I have my reasons to suspect why Devon barely does this, but Caroline is seem to be swaying or tapping her fingers, Jake bounces his leg alot, messes with his rings, cracks his knuckles even when he's not anxious. And Devon sometimes does it too, but he's probably used to masking a lot, especially near Lexy.

Pattern recognition; This is like the hugest thing with Devon and how he was even able to brainwash Chucky. Because he saw the patterns in his behavior and the way Chucky operated, and was able to exactly determine what would break him and how to break him. Which is also why I think Devon may have undiagnosed apophenia, since he seems to find patterns or meanings when others don't.

Sensory issues: This is shown with Caroline and her disgust with being touched, and I think Lexy made some kind of remark that she had a meltdown because she wore the wrong sweater. And both Devon and Jake collectively try to avoid certain patterns and textures with their clothing, you can literally see how Devon rarely wears anything tight, showing skin, like Jake's now wardrobe a little bit. He specifically sticks to sweaters, shirts, all that.

Little or too much eye contact: Was I the only one who watched Caroline and thought that this little terror was almost staring into everyone's soul? Devon kinda does it too, like keeps main eye contact too the point it would kinda be unnerving if you were talking to him long enough while Jake seems to make little eye contact and only really does it with those he feels comfortable with.

In conclusion, all of these fuckers are autistic.

Oh thank god you noticed, I thought I was the only one!!!

It’s a lot more obvious and in your face with Caroline considering the meltdown in ep 3 and of course her aversion to touch but I’m really glad you noticed the more subtle things with Jake and Devon as well. Also obviously in season two Nadine is very blatantly autistic and I love it so much and obviously as I’ve stated multiple times Miss Fairchild also shows autism/ADHD tendencies as well. So yes I’m conclusion they’re all autistic 😌

I didn’t know if I was just projecting but knowing that you see it to has just validated it for me.

[austinswhitewolf]

Blue Eyes Baby Pt. 16

End of the filming of Elvis...

It was getting close to the end of filming, Austin had a bit of filming for The International scenes and today was a day they were using a black jumpsuit that had gold embellishments and a black and gold cape. 

The energy Austin had that kept through each take all day amazed Gabe. She was sitting in his chair behind the cameras and just watched the magic that Baz was creating with the help of Austin. It was one of the last takes for today and when Baz yelled action, Gabe bopped along in the chair to the music. About just over halfway through the scene, Austin slid his leg out to dip low, and you watched him freeze. When he didn’t continue on, cut was called and Gabe tilted her head in confusion. It wasn’t like Austin at all to stop halfway through a scene like this. Austin shifted back up and moved off the stage, making sure to keep facing the crowd. Gabe hopped up from the chair she was in and moved over to where Austin disappeared. Baz was right behind her and when they both stepped to where the backstage of the scene would be, Austin was talking with Cathy and both were laughing. Gabe was now completely confused and was quick to slip up next to Austin and laced her hand with his. “Everything okay?” She asked, looking between Cathy and Austin, the confusion clear on her face. Both just laughed more, though Austin was able to calm down enough to speak. “Yeah… When I dipped, The pant’s split on me.” “What? Are you serious!?” Gabe asked, her eyes lighting up with laughter as she bit her lip. “Yeah. Cathy is going to have to work some magic to fix this.” He said, turning just enough so Gabe and Baz could see what he was talking about. Both just started laughing, Gabe pulled out her phone and was quick to snap a photo. “Babe, this is too good! I am so sending this to Ashely!” She said between bouts of laughter. “Dove!” Austin said in faux shock at her taking a photo, though that only lasted a few moments before he was laughing himself again. “Well I guess that is where I’ll call it for the day.” Baz said before he left to let the extras and everyone else know they could leave. “Dove, I would love to get changed into something more comfortable.” Austin said as he laced his hand with hers once again. Gabriel nodded and walked alongside him back towards his trailer so he could change. “Well you ended the day with a snap.” Gabe snickered. Austin rolled his eyes and looped his arm over her shoulder, her arm up over her chest, fingers still laced. “You could say that. Though it could have been a whole lot worse, that’s for sure. I’m just glad it was only the jumpsuit that ripped. Otherwise that would have been a completely different kind of show.” “Yeah, I am not willing to share that part of you with anyone.” Gabe said with a smirk, looking up at Austin. “I’d hope not. And you know I’m all  yours.” He said while kissing her forehead. When they reached his trailer, Austin opened the door for Gabe. She stepped up, turned and gave him a soft kiss. “Love you Aus.” 

“Love you too Gabriel.” With that, Gabe stepped into the trailer, Austin closing the door behind them and then started to remove the large belt from his waist. Gabe took it from him, laying it on the arm of the couch and then helped him with the cape which she draped over the back of the couch. Austin was quick to slip out of the boots before he started to shimmy out of the jumpsuit. Once he was stepping out of it, he felt Gabe’s fingernails scratch lightly over his back. A sigh and happy moan slid from his lips, a full body shiver taking over him. “That feels amazing, Dove.” Austin murmured out, his eyes closing in pure bliss. When she moved her fingers down to just under his shoulder blades, his body shifted back into her hands and she grinned.

All she could picture in that moment, was if he were a dog, he would be a golden retriever and his leg would be kicking so intensely. He tilted his head back, just feeling everything from the day drain from him. Gabe worked her way down his entire back slowly before sliding her arms around his waist, leaning her head on his lean back. Austin rested his arms over hers and gave her hands a soft squeeze. When she stepped back, Austin headed to the bathroom to shower off and Gabe took the outfit and ran it to wardrobe for Cathy quickly and was back before he was done. They got back to the hotel with enough time to go out for dinner together. They were seated in the back corner of the restaurant, more private and quiet for them. A few people would glance over but no one came up asking for a photo or anything. 

The next few weeks were finishing up filming for the end of the movie and then the last week was spent doing any reshoots that were needed. On the last day of filming, they were at the Graceland set. Both Austin and Gabe loved this one, it was beautiful, quiet and so peaceful. When the end of the day rolled around, everyone was gathered around, and a cake was brought out. Some champagne was popped open and everyone cheered at the end of filming. Though it was bittersweet. Everyone had become family, a home away from home. 

As everyone parted for the night, plans were made for breakfast the next morning before packing would start to be able to head home. When Austin and Gabriel got back to their suite that evening, they spent time just relaxing and curled up together. Gabriel had grabbed a book while Austin was just happy to lay with his head in her lap. When she started to run her fingers through his hair, he closed his eyes and smiled. “Read to me?” He asked softly, cracking his eyes open to look up at her. “Sure, I was just about to start one that I remember having read to me as a kid.” “You were read Grimms Brothers Fairy Tales as a kid?” He asked, blue eyes looking up at her around the book. “Yeah, I have always loved them.” Gabriel said before opening up to ‘The Singing Bone.’ As she began to read, talking about the two brothers, Austin closed his eyes again, relishing in her voice and her fingers in his hair. By the time she was halfway done with the story, Austin was sound asleep. Gabe smiled and continued to read for another hour or so before gently waking him up so they could go to bed and get more comfortable.

The following morning Gabe and Austin met up with Tom and his wife, Baz and Catherine, Olivia and a few others. There were lots of laughs and stories shared, numbers were traded that hadn’t been before. It was a sad moment when everyone started to split off to go pack their things to leave for home. As Austin and Gabe packed their things up, it was bittersweet. This had become home to Gabe, though she was excited to get to Austin’s, well now it was their house, back in Los Feliz. It took the rest of that day to pack everything up, and the following day they arranged a flight to get to LA. Between the two of them, there were three large checked bags, a carry on each, and then their backpacks. Their flight would be that evening, and they would fly through the night. Getting to the airport and their bags checked, Austin looped his arm around Gabe’s shoulder as they headed to the terminal they needed. Gabriel stayed tucked against him until they had to sit down and wait for the flight to board. They found a corner that had a few empty seats where they waited and watched the people. When their flight started to board, they were quick to get on. Austin had gotten them seats in first class so they had that extra room to not only be able to sleep but to have some more privacy. Gabe buckled herself in, and when Austin was settled in, she curled into his side, head on his shoulder. He wrapped his arm around her shoulder, kissed her forehead and then put an earbud in to listen to some music while they took off. Gabe was out by the time the take off safety instructions were finishing up and the plane started to move. Austin was asleep not long after that himself. 

[austin-cartwright]

Despite the chaotic way they met and her reaction to his help in the moment (and for longer than she'd like to admit afterwards), Austin had always felt completely at ease in Jesse's presence. Like she didn't have to hold herself back, quiet her loud personality to make him comfortable. It was something she was grateful for in a way she'd never be able to find the words for. But why? Maybe it was the way he'd saved her before he knew her, or maybe it was just one of those things- those connections that couldn't be explained. Whatever the reason, she was glad she met him, and even more glad that they'd run into each other so early in her return home.

"Better be careful, with attitude like that you'll be on the receiving end of it again." Her eyes narrowed as she tried to keep her expression stoic, even biting down on her lower lip in an attempt to stifle the bubbling laughter threatening to spill past her lips but it was no use. A grin stretched her features wide as laughter rolled off her tongue. "I don't know, you could be good at multitasking. Stranger things have happened." She teased, shooting him a playful wink. "After all, you did save my life and piss me off all at once. That takes talent."

Gently bumping her hip against his (or at least that was her aim, though the gesture landed more on his thigh due to their height difference) as they walked, Austin fully gave up on her attempts to suppress her growing smile as her eyes sparkled with amusement. "Oh, I can't. I'm fearless, didn't you know? It was the villains of my childhood that made me that way." Her tone was light and full of jest, yet she knew that while she faced fear more often than most, there was still a strong undercurrent of fear mixed with adrenaline any time she faced that kind of mortal danger. She hated that she still got so scared, but she was a strong proponent of fake it 'til you make it. She'd have time to cry or throw up in the bushes afterwards.

Eyebrows raised at his words, the redhead's grin was replaced by a smirk. "That's what they say." Her playful tone matched his. "So what you're telling me is that you think I'm perfect?" She asked, biting down on her lower lip though the attempt did nothing to hide the smirk that remained on her features. "And wait, you just said you're the Hector to my Achilles… so does that mean I bring you to your knees? What a visual…" Trailing off, Austin's gaze scanned the joyous scene around them before coming back to Jesse with a grin and a teasing glint in her eye. "Suddenly I'm feeling very godlike."

In high school, Austin was a decent student, but her focus had primarily been on soccer and her relationship at the time. That didn't leave much room for retaining information long term- only long enough for tests before it was forgotten. It seemed that literature, which was admittedly one of her worst subjects, was one of those subjects that she'd somehow erased from her mind completely. However, despite the slight blush of embarrassment that colored her cheeks from not quite following his line of humor, the redhead continued on. She knew he wouldn't judge her or hold her ignorance against her.

"Me?" She asked, pretending to be taken aback by the outlandish suggestion, "I am a pure innocent angel. I would never." Though she did her best to sound as innocent as she could, the wicked grin on her features gave her away. "Oh that's all I've gotta do?" She playfully mimicked his withered accent. "That's good to know. I'll have to keep that one in my back pocket, maybe save the confession for a rainy day." Releasing her hold on his arm and instead, slipping her arm around his waist while hooking her thumb into one of his belt loops, Austin continued to walk in stride with the man she'd dubbed her own personal superhero. "Oh, you don't even know. I'd lie awake at night, just tossing and turning with my thoughts of you. Then when I would finally get to sleep you'd haunt my dreams. They say I'd call out your name. Jesse, Jesse." His named was spoken wistfully, her free hand resting over her chest where her heart was, and for a moment she held the sincere look on her face before she broke out into laughter. "Yeah, you could say it was difficult." She grinned.

The s'mores table was something out of a fever dream, filled despite the constant throngs of people picking at it's contents, and Austin was no different. She had more graham crackers, marshmallows, and chocolate than she'd be able to eat but she couldn't help it. Her eyes always had been bigger than her stomach. Besides, they had Reese's cups and those on a s'more just sounded delectable. "A life? You? I can't see it." She teased right back. "Don't worry though, I'm home. The light of your life is back and you'll actually have a life again. I know you've been lost without me."

Once her plate was so full she was sure she was going to drop at least a few things on the way to the fire, Austin began searching for the metal skewers to roast her marshmallows with. In the time it took, she'd already eaten a couple marshmallows and pieces of chocolate, and she only found the skewers because she'd seen Jesse grab one. "Mm no, I don't think so. Think I skipped that health class and saw a movie instead." She mused with a grin, plopping a marshmallow on the end of her skewer and leaning over to snatch the one he'd just put on his with her teeth. "Maybe you can show me some time." She challenged, though her mouth was full of the stolen marshmallow causing her words to be slightly muffled.

Once they were standing in front of the bonfire, Austin set her plate down on an empty folding chair and stacked her skewer with two marshmallows to hold in the flames. She liked them burnt to a crisp and she wasn't about to deny herself the perfect s'more now that it was just within reach. "I knew you were obsessed with me." She grinned playfully. "Annoying is just part of my charm. Seems to have worked a little too well on you, though." Another tease accompanied by a smirk.

Pulling her marshmallows out of the fire just at the perfect time, she brought the still alight sweets to her mouth so she could blow out the fire and begin making her s'more. However, at the almost haunted look on his face her planned movements paused and her full attention was turned to him and him alone. "Because it's you." She said earnestly. "And I want to get to know you better."

Hesitation stalled her for a moment before she discarded her marshmallows and moved closer to him, placing a hand gently on his forearm as she offered him a sincere, albeit a bit worried, smile. "Used to it doesn't equal okay." After a second she continued, her voice purposefully lighter. "But you don't have to tell me anything you don't want to. Just remember I'm here for you, though. Whatever it is, you don't have to carry it alone. Even Batman had a Robin." She mused, nudging him gently. "Now c'mon, show me this perfectly toasted marshmallow you claim to have achieved." ( @jesseelmassalamy )

Before he could utter a response the redhead tossed another question, possibly an accusation, then another and another in such quick succession that he couldn't interject even a syllable. So, with amusement coloring his features, Jesse stood and waited for all that Austin had to fire away at him.

Considering that he was more of the quiet type, the Bostonian appreciated that the adventurer had no qualms about carrying more than her fair share of the load in conversation.

"Please," his large hands lifted in a white flag gesture, "don't be mad. I've been on the side of that before and I'm still healing from those wounds, to be honest." A jest. Though, her response had been incredibly confusing at the time, it'd been easy to move on from. "How could I have time for another woman when you keep me busy enough?" They were going down this line of teasing and Jesse wouldn't balk or shy away from it. In fact, he enjoyed it.

"And here I thought," the disgraced former policeman began as they strolled, their arms hooked left his hand to rest against his abdomen, "you couldn't be scared by anything." Since, in their first meeting, Austin had a strong way of letting him know that she could take care of herself. Given their next spot of humor, or his that hadn't exactly landed well, he dipped into that same mythology— "I guess even Achilles had a weakness, huh?"

"Why or how would that be offensive? Achilles was a demigod. Considered to be perfect and took down the great Hector of Troy." This wasn't where he would mention that the fearsome warrior wasn't the best half-human, especially since that was beside the point and not apart of his comparison. Maybe he needed to brush up on his high school literature? Anyhow, it was easy to continue on with Austin, the way she'd lifted his spirits so easily and quickly was a much better feeling than walking around aimlessly like a loner and like he didn't belong.

When she stopped and challenged him, misconstruing his words, a chuckle bubbled up Jesse's throat and he gently squeezed her arm at his side and pushed her along with him. "I'm starting to feel like it's been you that's been thinking impurely about me..." A brow was cocked as he glanced down at the petite woman at his side. "You're the one repeatedly jumping to innuendos. If you want me— all you've gotta do is say so," he jested in his somewhat faded Bostonian accent. "Must have been really hard for you having been so far away from this immeasurable sex appeal."

Then it was his turn to pause. "It's not game. This is all natural." Not allowing her the opportunity Jesse carried on toward the s'more setup. Brow wiggled as he added, "impressive, right?"

When they finally reached the table it was natural for him to clock and space the entire scene, the cop in him would apparently never completely fade away. That eleven year career had become instinct in so many ways. Something that Austin had seen example of. Rather than load up a plate like she was, the barista popped a marshmallow in his mouth then a piece of chocolate. "Ah, no, I actually had a life back then," he teased of not having seen the movie she seemed to highly regard.

Before they parted from the table with all of the goodies, Jesse grabbed a couple more pieces of each. The man didn't have a big sweet tooth yet when presented with such sweets he was decidedly all in. His fingers wrapped around a roasting stick and he popped one of those fluffy, sugary sweets on the end of it. "Push you over a bit, lay on top of you— do you know how sex works?"

Their conversation had caught the ears of those around them but he was in a zone, his attention only on Austin and their task. The man was smirking heavily and already preparing for a nudge or smack for his comments. They were too good to pass up. "You could never be an inconvenience. You're annoying sometimes," another play, "but not an inconvenience."

As her other stipulation was rattled off, the barista paused and then glanced over at the redheaded adventurist as the amusement that had been on his face slowly drained into something more guarded and serious. Even her joke couldn't pull him out of the rubble of that moment. "Why would you wanna hear anything about that?"

A few seconds later, "I'm used to it. Nothing to worry about." / @austin-cartwright

[jedifarmerr]

She’s Just Not That Into You   (Marcus Pike x F!Reader)

Hello everyone!! This is my first try at fan fiction, so please give feedback! This is somewhat based on He’s Just Not That Into You, Alex and Gigi relationship (which I do not own). I have the whole story laid out, and should be around 8 to 10 chapters (if there is interest)

I do not own the mentalist or the picture above (so credit to them)

Summary: After a failed marriage, and the world’s shortest engagement, Marcus is starting to give up on love. One late night, Marcus stumbles into a diner, and meets a young waitress, with whom he develops an unlikely friendship with. 

Warnings: Food, eating, mentions of heartbreak, some sadness, sad!Marcus, no use of Y/N! (If any more let me know)

Rating: M (just to be safe) 18+

Chapter 1: Diner Girl

Seeing Lisbon again had been a punch to Marcus’s gut. He thought it would give him closure, that he would feel better after seeing her. Maybe he hoped she would change her mind once she saw him. That she would be reminded of what they had. Instead, he was hit with the realization that it was really over. She had moved on, and was happy with Jane. He was just a pit stop to her final destination, it was always going to be Jane for her. He needed to accept that. He needed to move on. He just wondered what could Jane offer her that he couldn’t? When would it be his turn to finally have someone? 

Since his return to D.C., he had been in a trance. His thoughts consumed him, stuck in his own self-loathing. Matthew’s voice breaks him from his thoughts reminding him of the meeting starting in a few minutes. He rubs his face,  needing to pull himself together, focus on his job, he’s the leader of this department he needs to get it together. He catches his reflection on the black screen of his laptop, he examines himself noting that his eyes are tired, dark circles underneath them, and his beard really needs a trim. Marcus closes his laptop abruptly, and heads for the conference room. He just hopes this meeting is short so he can head home. 

Marcus’s luck was never great, the meeting ran long, and he was starving. He missed the diners in Austin, missed his regular breakfast places. In between his office and his apartment, there were three breakfast places. He had tried two of them so far, and had been gravely disappointed by both of them. The only one left was Lucy’s Diner, and he was just hoping it was better than the last place. He was scared, and didn’t know if he could face more disappointment. How does a breakfast place mess up pancakes?

Marcus entered the diner, the small bell above the door ringing. The diner was empty, he was guessing since most people aren’t in the mood for pancakes this late at night. He hears a voice from the back telling him to sit wherever he wants. While walking towards the bar top he gazes around the room taking in his surroundings. The diner had fluorescent lights that gave a yellow tint to the dining room, the booths and seats were covered with a teal sparkly leather covering, and a jukebox was in the corner playing Elvis Pressley. Really had the classic diner look down he thought. 

Marcus sits down and opens the menu, when suddenly he is hit with a memory of him with Lisbon on their first date. They had gone to a diner that had the best banana pancakes. He could remember how happy he felt that day, how she laughed at all his jokes, how beautiful she looked in that red leather booth. He could remember going home that night with the biggest smile on his face, and a feeling that she was his future.  A voice breaks him from his thoughts,  painfully reminded that he is here alone. 

-------

You were annoyed at the sound of the small ding. You needed to study for your upcoming test, you had stretched yourself a bit thin this week. Taking extra hours at the diner to help pay for school. You check yourself in the mirror, making sure you look presentable before heading out the swinging door. Before even fully entering the dining room you start on your spiel “Welcome to Lucy’s Diner! What can I get you?” The customer jolts back a bit, startled from his own thoughts. The man’s eyes quickly dart around, lingering for a second on your name tag, then your face. He then looks down to the menu and states his order. Once he finishes, his eyes meet yours for just a few seconds, and you see that his brown eyes are glassy and have dark circles under them. He must be also having a pretty stressful week you think. You give him a quick smile before heading back to get his order in. You start a fresh pot of decaf coffee, unable to give him the stale shit that has been sitting there for hours. He looks like he has had a bad enough day. 

After a few minutes you return to the man with his decaf coffee, “Freshly brewed, sir. Would you like any cream or sugar?” He shakes his head and gives you a quick thank you, while taking a sip of his coffee. The man didn’t seem in the mood to chat, so you leave him alone to sulk in his own thoughts. Not wanting to be a nuisance to the man. 

When in the back room, you can’t help but peek through the little window in the door to spy on him. He looks so sad, so lost in his own mind, he looks like he can hardly hold himself together. He looks like a child lost in a supermarket, and for some reason you want to comfort him. You wonder what he is going through, was it just a bad day at work? Or was it more?  Lenny breaks you from your reverie, letting you know that the order is up. When you pick it up, Lenny gives you a side glance, “I thought you had a test to study for, but seems you got something a little bit more interesting to look at then those books.” You roll your eyes at him, and turn to leave, the kitchen now full of laughter as you walk away. 

Once you set the food down in front of the man, he immediately digs in. He eats like he hasn’t seen food in days, and you are honestly worried for this man’s health. You don’t want to disturb him, but you break his focus anyway to ask how it is tasting and if you can get him anything else. His mouth is full, and he meets your eyes fully for the second time that night. It seems as if the taste of the food has boosted his mood. He smiles, a real smile for the first time that night and his eyes are not as glassy, and you swear you see a glow to them. He lightly chuckles, before replying “This is fantastic. Could I get a little more coffee when you have the chance?” 

You smile at him and motion to the room, “Yeah, I mean we are so busy, but I think I can do that for you.” He lets out a little giggle, while you go to get the pot from the back. You return only a minute later, and find that his plate is almost empty. 

“Wow! You must have really enjoyed those pancakes!” You slap yourself internally for not being able to think of anything better to say to the man. 

“These are the best pancakes I have had in a while, I have tried the other places around here” he says with a smile, “And they are nothing compared to this.”

You return his sweet smile, “I will let Lenny know you enjoyed them! I am glad you liked it.” 

After that, you are met with a bit of awkward silence that you decide to break “So, are you from around here or just visiting?” 

----------

He was trying to chew as fast as he could, this is the second time you have asked him a question mid-chew tonight. “Just moved here a few months ago actually, from Texas. Haven’t been able to explore too much, the new job is keeping me pretty busy.” He meets your eyes, placing one elbow on the table, giving you a small smirk “Do you have any suggestions for a newbie?” 

Your face lights up as you give him a few food suggestions, some hidden gems, and a low down on the days to visit certain monuments and when to avoid them. You continue to converse about local tips, and after a few minutes he checks his watch

 “I didn’t realize how late it was getting. Can I get the check? I am sure you are ready to close down.” 

He senses that you are a bit disappointed with him leaving, guessing you must be bored with the lack of patrons in the establishment. You hand him the check in which he quickly pays, leaving a very generous tip. 

Before reaching the door he hears your voice shout out “Hope to see you again soon!” 

He turns while opening the door giving you a quick smile  “I will definitely be back.”  

[datleggy]

I need both of your “surprise Buck was/is pregnant with Eddie’s baby and they find out because Chris finds him” anons to finish their drabbles. I need the Buddie confrontation scene with all the angst and betrayal from both sides. (Meanwhile Chris happily keeps his baby brother occupied and whispers about how he’s gonna parent trap their dads.) Please and thank you.

he anon sent more and here it is! it's wonderful, pls read!! <3

ANON: As the anon who your last ask was talking about might I just say I am sobbiiiinnnnnggggggg 😭😭😭 that was so good omg but ALSO now I have an addition to my earlier blurb 👀👀👀

Eddie is frantic, from the moment Buck called to now. Let's rewind a bit though, for context.

After running into Buck in Austin, they did meet up, without Chris, to talk. Buck had Eddie meet him at his new fire house, which. Hurt? It hurt, in a weird way that Eddie couldn't quite place at first, but he realizes now what he was feeling; jealousy that Buck has moved on and seems so comfortable here, longing for Buck to return to them, to the 118 (if he's being honest though, it's him he wants Buck to return to more than anything, but that's hardly fair after everything), regret that he treated Buck so poorly that the other man not only felt he couldn't tell him about the baby, but that he felt he had to move states.

Eddie met him there regardless, though, because ultimately it was Buck's choice. Eddie was grateful Buck chose to talk to him at all, so he wasn't going to argue over the chosen venue.

They met up, and they talked, and Buck confirmed that the baby he was carrying was Eddie's. He was in shock at the confession, upset for the first few moments, even. And it showed on his face, because the next thing Eddie knew, Buck was backing away from him, arms crossed over his stomach and tears running down his face, begging Eddie not to try and take his baby from him.

"I know I shouldn't have ke-kept this from y-you, but Eddie pl-please! He's all I h-ha-have left, I won't make it if you t-take h-him!" Eddie was shocked, and horrified at Buck's words. It took him a few minutes to calm him down, and weeks of slowly increased communication between the two of them (and Christopher, of course) before Eddie was able to convince Buck that he wasn't planning on trying to gain custody of the baby. He had explained that, yes, he wanted to be in their son's life, wanted Chris to be in his brother's life, but he wouldn't do anything to hurt Buck anymore then he already has.

It took almost the remainder of the pregnancy, but they were finally close to where they had been before everything went to shit. Not that they were lovers again, Eddie doesn't think either of them are ready for that, and Buck agrees, but they were on the fast track to becoming best friends again.

So of course he's the first person Buck calls when he goes into labor.

"I'm sorry, you're what?"

"In labor," Buck says sheepishly over the phone. "Or at least, I think I am? I mean, I'm three days overdue so I doubt these are practice contractions, but I guess there's always the possibility, and oh my god if I called you at 3 in the morning because of practice contractions, Eddie, I am so sorry oh god--" he can hear Buck working himself into a panic attack, so he cuts in.

"Hey hey, none of that. Even if these are Braxton Hicks or whatever they're called, I'm glad you called me. We agreed we would be in this together, right?" There's a pause on the other line before Buck speaks.

"Yeah. Together."

Eddie smiles at the soft tone of Buck's voice, and he can picture him perfectly in his mind's eye as though he were there in front of Eddie. Sitting at the end of his bed, both hands framing his belly (which has gotten big since the first time they ran into each other three months ago, the doctors estimating that the baby is somewhere between 8 and 9 pounds, which Buck was Not Pleased to hear, and blames Eddie for, especially when he found out that Chris was nearly 8 pounds when he had been born), and tears in his eyes despite the smile on his face at the prospect of meeting their baby soon.

Eddie takes a deep breath to steady his own racing heart and asks "So, what do you want to do?"

"Huh?"

Eddie can't help the breathless laugh that leaves him, every passing moment feeling more and more surreal as he realizes that /this is happening/. He's going to be a father for a second time, he and Buck are having a baby together and they're going to meet him soon.

"Do you want me with you, Buck? Because I can leave now, fly down there and be with you when he's born. Or we can stay on the phone, or you can FaceTime me. Whatever you wanna do, babe." The endearment leaves his mouth before he can stop it, but he doesn't try to back track.

"I--" Buck cuts himself off with a cry, more surprised then in pain, but Eddie still hates the sound. He starts to wonder, if Buck wants him there, will Eddie even be able to face seeing him in that amount of pain? He'll do it, of course he will, he would do anything for Buck and their boys, but god it might just break him. This isn't about Eddie, though.

"Breathe, baby. Deep breaths, just like in those classes TK took you to." Everytime he and Buck talk, the other man has stories either related to the baby, or related to his new family. Sometimes even both, like when he told Eddie about the Lamaze classes Buck's friend TK took him to, highly recommended from when TK went himself with his boyfriend Carlos leading up to their son being born. Eddie couldn't help but feel that ugly, burning jealousy, but he tried to sound as happy as possible over the phone. Buck wouldn't appreciate the jealousy, since Eddie lost out on what they could have been thanks to his own anger and mistreatment of Buck.

A few moments pass before Buck comes back on. "That hurt," he says with a small, pained laugh. Eddie can't tell if he wants to cry, punch something, or both, but he tamps those feelings down.

"I know, I know. But you've got this, Buck. You're gonna kick labor's ass, right?"

"Right," Buck responds weakly.

"Damn right, right. You're so strong, Buck. There isn't anything you can't do, and nothing you won't do for your kids. You've got this." He hears Buck take a deep breath, steeling himself.

"Yeah... yeah! I've got this. I've got this!" That golden retriever enthusiasm is back in full force, and Eddie grins.

Buck announces that he's going to start packing some stuff and getting his things together, so Eddie will be in speaker phone. For the next few minutes, Eddie listens to Buck ramble off random facts about babies and labor between verbalizing his hospital bag checklist. He hums in the appropriate places to show he's listening, asks clarifying questions so Buck knows Eddie isn't bored or just humoring him. Before too long, Eddie can tell that Buck has picked the phone back up, removing it from speaker phone.

"Hey, Eds?" His voice is quieter, more subdued then it has been for most of their time in the phone.

"Yeah, Buck?" His own voice is soft, curious but undemanding.

"I-- you said, earlier, that you would-would come down, if that's what I wanted? Like, to be here when the baby is born." Eddie feels his heart start to race in his chest, not sure if he's eager to hear Buck's decision or dreading it.

"I did," he confirms anyway, wanting Buck's comfort more than anything else.

"... Is that offer still on the table? You coming down here, I mean." Eddie can feel his breath catch in his chest, and he realizes that, yeah, he was eager to know what Buck wanted him to do. He feels like jumping into the air and cheering, knowing Buck wants him by his side as he delivers their baby boy into the world.

"I can leave in ten minutes, and be with you in four, five hours at the most." His response is almost immediate, and Buck laughs on the other end of the line. "Is that what you want, Buck? Me to be there, with you?" Eddie hears a sniffle and he knows Buck is in the verge of crying.

"I-- is that alright? I don't-- I can't do this alone, Eddie. I know I have everyone from the 126 here, and all of them would sit with me through this in a heartbeat, but... I need it to be you that's here with me. I want you to be here when our son is born, want you to cut the cord, be one of the first to hold him, all of it. I... I need /you/." And how could Eddie ever say no to that?

"Give me a few minutes to pack a bag and make some calls, okay? I'll call you right back, and before you know it, I'll be right beside you, holding your hand and letting you break as many fingers as you want." Buck gives a wet chuckle and agrees, but both men have a hard time saying goodbye, even if it will only be for a few minutes.

"I'll see you soon, Buck, okay? I swear."

"Yeah, I know you will, I know. I'm just nervous, is all. Having you here, even just over the phone, it helps. So much, Eddie." He knows what he means. Hearing Buck's cheerful voice after a long day never fails to make Eddie feel better, make him feel that no matter what, everything will be alright. He can only imagine how much better things will feel for the both of them once they can actually see each other, touch each other.

"I know exactly what you mean. I'll be there soon, okay? I'll call you back in a second and you can tell me more statistics about babies born in cars, or whatever." Buck snorts a laugh and Eddie smiles at the sound.

"I swear to God if you jinx this and I end up giving birth on the highway, I will kill you." They laugh together, but Eddie knows now that he has to get things in order if he wants to be with Buck ASAP. Neither man wants to say goodbye.

"I'll be with you soon, Evan."

"Yeah, okay. Eddie, I-I..." Eddie waits patiently for whatever Buck was going to say. His heart hammers in his chest.

"... Be safe, Eddie." He can't help the bitter feeling of disappointment that floods through him, but he returns the sentiment, regardless.

They hang up, and for a moment, Eddie simply sits on his bed, head in his hands. All he wanted to do as they said their goodbyes was to tell Buck that he loved him. He doesn't feel like he's earned the right to say that to him yet, though. He has to earn it.

With that in mind, he starts packing a bag, calling Hen to see if she and Karen would be able to babysit Chris while Eddie is in Texas.

Dhdhjajsiejsj so sorry about that again, hope you enjoy (and thanks again to that person who sent that other ask, bc that was an amazing blurb they sent 😌) 😭😭😭

[reyescarlos]

#30 from the Prompt list for Tarlos! Please :3

yesss, thank you for sending in a request! hope you like it!

#30 “I love you, okay? I’ll say it as many times as you need to hear it.”

TK looks up at the sky, watching clouds drift lazily above him. This is truly a perfect day, his mind at ease in a way it always seems to be whenever he’s spending quality time with Carlos, the man who has had his heart for eleven months now. There may be other people around enjoying the warm weather too but everything outside the perimeter of the blanket they’re stretched out on now doesn’t affect him.

A Sunday picnic in the park is just one of the many simple pleasures in life that he’s been relishing in. The simplicity of being in Carlos’ company is a comfort, one that TK never takes for granted.

Carlos’ head is beside his own, his body facing the opposite direction. Carlos sighs heavily and TK turns his head to read his expression. The man looks pensive, brows furrowed slightly, his lips now pursed in thought as his gaze remains on the sky. TK lifts a hand and smooths one of Carlos’ brows with his index finger, coaxing him from his deep thoughts.

“Where’d you go?”

Carlos faces him then, a small smile on his lips though it doesn’t quite reach his eyes. TK lowers his hand but Carlos takes a hold of it and clutches it to his chest.

“I’m right here with you.”

TK can’t help but to smile at the gesture, especially at the quickening thump of Carlos’ heart as the man peers over at him. Nothing seems to ground them more than physical touch; holding hands, hugging, a gentle squeeze. These little instances never fail to bring them back to base.

“Can I ask you something?” Carlos says.

There’s a note of hesitancy in the question that makes TK sit upright. Carlos very rarely sounds unsure of himself and if the look on his face now is any indicator, he appears to be truly nervous about whatever it is he intends to ask.

“Of course you can. What’s on your mind?”

Carlos falters for a fraction of a second before pushing through.

“It’s sort of about your relationship with Alex.”

The name comes out with some disdain. TK does his best to mask his surprise though he doesn’t think he’s doing a very good job of it. Carlos never mentions his ex and TK certainly hasn’t had any interest in thinking about the man, let alone bringing him up either.

“Oh? Um, sure. What about it?”

Carlos sighs and sits up too, rubbing at the back of his neck.

“I’m just wondering if that experience has spoiled your views on the subject of marriage.”

TK’s eyes widen and he tries to say something but comes up short. Things have been going perfectly for them since they made their relationship official. This is without a doubt the healthiest and most stable relationship TK has ever been in. To have such a connection to someone, especially on the heels of his last relationship, TK has been pinching himself over his luck.

He and Carlos always talk about loving each other forever but now that TK thinks on it now, they’ve never explicitly talked about it in terms of marriage. It just felt like a given.

He’d love nothing more than to always have this, to be this beside himself with joy and gratitude. In Carlos he’s found true love, one that doesn’t leave him feeling drained and yet still somehow as if he’s not enough. It’s the complete opposite of life with Alex and all the failed relationships that came before.

TK hadn’t been expecting Carlos to have marriage on his mind at this moment and he’s so stunned that he can’t even say anything.

Carlos cringes a bit at his silence and TK could just kick himself for it. But before he can clarify what his silence means, Carlos keeps talking.

“I’m not saying we’re there yet, of course. I know we haven’t even been together for a full year. But I’d be lying if I said I couldn’t easily picture that kind of future with you. And if, hopefully when, the time comes for us to actually reach that stage...I don’t know. I’ve never loved someone this deeply before.

“I don’t know if it’s too soon to even be talking like this. Or if I’m bringing up things you’d rather forget. All I know is that I always want us to be on the same page because I want a happy ending with you, TK, whatever that may look like for us.”

Carlos stops then and shakes his head. “This went a lot smoother in my head,” he jokes nervously. “Sorry for being all over the place.”

TK smiles softly. “You’re doing just fine, babe.”

Seemingly reassured, Carlos pulls in a long breath and nods before continuing.

“He was important to you. You loved him enough to want to make the ultimate commitment. But since things didn’t pan out as you would have hoped,” he says, a polite understatement TK thinks, “I’m curious if you’ve written off the idea of one day marrying someone.”

TK takes notice of the word someone but doesn’t press it. He can already see how vulnerable Carlos feels now even mentioning any of this. He supposes it may just make it easier for Carlos to discuss, phrasing it this way.

“Honestly, no, he hasn’t ruined the concept for me. I’ll admit, when it first happened, I didn’t see a way out of that hopeless feeling. I didn’t think I’d ever be ready to date again. Then you came along and proved me wrong.”

Carlos smiles faintly at this, placing a hand on TK’s knee.

“I’m not ruling anything out. My life has taken turns I never saw coming, some surprises much better than others,” he says, bumping his knee softly against Carlos’ with a smile. “But through it all, all those highs and lows, I’ve grown and I’ve changed.”

“So, you could see it in the cards for us?”

TK touches a hand to Carlos’ face, stroking his cheek.

“I could. Anytime I think about our future, it looks so damn bright to me...all of this potential. You make me the happiest I’ve ever been.”

It’s the honest truth. Each morning he wakes up grateful to have Carlos and on those particular mornings he sees Carlos in the spot beside him, he has to wonder how he’s even the same person that suffered so greatly in New York to be thriving so well in Austin.

“No has ever mattered to me this much. I know we’re in a good place with each other,” Carlos says. “ I don’t ever want to lose you or this feeling. And I know that’s a lot of pressure to put on someone, I know. I just had to put that out there.”

TK frowns. “You don’t ever have to worry about that sort of thing with me. I love you, okay? I’ll say it as many times as you need to hear it. I’ll invent a whole new language just to find another way to tell you how in love with you I am, if that’s what it takes for the message to sink in,” he muses. “I don’t think I really knew what love could actually feel like until this.”

“Even with…,” Carlos trails off but TK can fill in the blanks easily.

“I’ve been realizing that what I had with him wasn’t actually love. Not in its truest form like what I have here with you, anyway. It took my life blowing up to find something real.”

TK looks off for a moment, collecting his thoughts.

“Proposing to him was a last-ditch effort to save a relationship that was so broken. I just couldn’t see it at the time...I didn’t want to, more like it. Things had been off between us for a while and I got this idea going that we just needed to be closer to fix it. I was holding on to something that I should have let go of. Loving him almost cost me everything.”

“It’s a scary thought, imagining what it’d be like if we never met. The love of my life was up in New York that whole time,” Carlos says softly. “It’s scary to think what we could have missed out on. More importantly that the world could have lost you.”

Carlos lets out a shaky breath. “I’m really glad you survived all of that. You’re the strongest person I know and I’m really, really proud of you, TK.”

TK feels his eyes stinging at the sentiment and he blinks back his tears. This isn’t something they talk about often, never mind so openly. But TK is glad for it now. As much as he hates the difficult parts of his past, it’s still a component of his present, something he’ll have to be mindful of his whole life.

But with the support of his loved ones and this man who has become his entire world, he feels confident about his successes on the road ahead.

Carlos looks down, picking at blades of grass at the blanket’s edge.

“I hate even the idea of you ever hurting but it brought you down here to me. Maybe that makes me a bad person, I don’t know. It’s selfish and so wrong to be glad that you got uprooted. I hate the circumstances but I’m glad for the result.”

TK smiles, taking Carlos’ face in his hands. He stares at him for a moment, watching the way the sunlight brings out the honey tones in his brown eyes. It’s enough to make TK melt.

His last few days in New York had been some of the harrowing and challenging days he’d ever faced. Happiness was such an abstract concept, something he didn’t think he’d ever be able to experience again. It made the unexpectedness of finding Carlos just that much more special.

“It’s not selfish and you, Carlos Reyes, are a remarkable person. I’ve never met anyone with a heart like yours. I’m glad for the second chance I got.”

He rests his forehead against Carlos’, kissing the tip of his nose, a hand cradling the nape of his neck.

“Any road that led here would have been worth it. It took a few tries but I know I’ve got it right this time. I want it all with you, Carlos. No doubts about it.”

[bringbacktim]

Pretty kitty-jschlatt

I may have to confess to a priest after posting this

Synopsis: petplay with jschlatt

Warnings: pet play, use of belt as a collar , cat ears

Not edited or proofread

Wc: 598 words

I apologise for this beforehand, I am very unhinged when it comes to this man

Jschlatt never thought he would enjoy pet play in a million years , he would swear up and down that people who had it were weird and shouldn't be allowed pets

However, his views very quickly changed when him and his girlfriend y/n were packing their stuff for the move to Austin and she put the cat ears on as a joke

"I need a photo of you in those" he said hoping she thought he meant for social media purposes not to jack off to later when she wasn't around

"Another addition to the spank bank?" She said seeing right through him

"Where else would it go" he laughed

"Why do you even still have these" she said deciding whether to keep them or not

"I have no clue, but I'm glad i kept them now" he said putting them back on her head

"They're going to stay on during sex aren't they?" She said not actually minding

A lot of that day consisted of packing , which was hard for schlatt as he wanted to play with his pretty kitty (ew)

He was beyond hard at this point , his pants being barely able to handle the pressure of his erection pressing against the seam

Of course the one time he discovers a new kink he has to a pack an apartment up

Y/n knew that getting him all wound up was going to create the best sex ever so made sure to stay out of his way as much as possible or only ask him about cat related stuff if they were in the same room

"Jambo is getting so big , his collar looks like it could fit me" that was the straw that broke the camels back

"Bedroom . Now" he demanded in that gravelly voice that made her week at the knees and wet at the pussy

They looked like participants off the one hundred metre dash as they raced to the bedroom . Y/n was excited to see what fun accessories would come into play

"Where are your ears?" He said shocked she didnt bring them

"I was distracted by Jambo and forgot them" she said looking down at the floor disappointed

"You can go get them , but you have crawl on all fours" who was she to say no to that , and who was he to not stare at her ass as she crawled through the doorway and into the hall

She could hear his belt jingle as he took it off from the other room and was confused why his pants didn't follow until she crawled back to him , cat ears on her head safely, and saw it in his hand

"I thought I'd be nice and give you a collar and leash of your own so you wouldn't have to steal Jambo's" he said as he knelt down to where she was sat on the floor and tightened the makeshift collar around her neck so it sat comfortably as if it was his fingers

"Now get on your knees and purr for me" he said taking his cock out of his pants and stroking it at the sight

Just saw a clip of Anthony padilla saying get on your knees and purr and I CANNOT get pet play with Jschlatt out of my head

[bowenandjohnson]

Hi Sarah 🙋‍♀️

Well, since you asked... 😉 Can you rate your favourite “Sanas”? & perhaps could you include both Imaan and Esra (🇳🇱) in the ranking? 👼 (since Esra was in a sense also a Sana and she’s soo precious! 😻)

Thanks in advance! 💐

Love,

anonacht 🌃

P.S. Yes, I’m everywhere! 😈 Only friendly fire though! 💚

P.P.S. “nacht” = the Dutch word for night! 🤓 And it’s still a shame skamNL never moved beyond season 2! 😭

Hello, Twitter anon aka anonacht :) I love you too (also thanks for putting up with me on Twitter, because I am insufferable, at least to myself lol)

Thank you for indulging me, and requesting my Sana ranking. 

1. sana bakkoush - skam

It’s kind of sad that no other Sana season has been able to top the original, at least in my opinion. But Sana Bakkoush deserves this crown, because she is a character who redefined Muslim representation onscreen. Iman Meskini was such a force in her season, and everything Sana felt, she managed to make me feel like that too. When she cried, so did I. When she was angry, I was pissed, and so on. I love her and her Yousef so, so much. She is everything, honestly. I hope Sana is out there, being a doctor and revolutionizing medicine as we know it.

2. amira naybet - skam espana

Ooh, okay. I know a lot of people won’t agree with me on this one, and that’s fine! Amira Naybet means the world to me. Like literally, she is my comfort character. As I began this past fall semester as a junior in college during a freaking pandemic, she and Hajar Brown took my heart and ran with it. I personally love that she was also the Jonas in Cris’ season, as it gave her so much depth before her season aired. Ultimately, I agree that her season was flawed, and I definitely think that her season needed actual Muslim writers involved, and not just consultants. Her season production was also hindered by the pandemic too, which sucks, because I think a whole episode was cut from her season, and there was a lot of rewriting in the back half so they could meet COVID guidelines. But overall, I’m glad the writers tried to be different with their Sana and change some things up. I still love Amira, and I do love her relationship with Dani (although I will never understand that Al-Queda joke in his first clip, it feels like a misguided attempt at Spanish humor that did not translate well at all). And I’m glad Hajar felt safe and secure with this team and was happy with Amira’s story, given the circumstances. (ps: she deserved the full nine episodes, I don’t care what Movistar thinks.)

3. amira thalia mahmood - druck / zoya ali - skam austin

AMIRA THE SECOND. I love her too. I especially liked that she was technically the first Girl Squad member introduced in Hanna’s season, instead of Miss Mia. I liked that change. I also love the friendships she had with Matteo and David, and that Matteo was saved as “idiot” in her phone. She was truly a queen. Mohammed is also a king, one of my favorites. I also liked that Druck also tried to change some things and make their Sana season more relevant, with the Christchurch references and setting her season outside of Ramadan. But sadly, like Amira N.’s season, it failed to really delve into the racism that Amira had dealt with in the GS from Kiki. If Nadia was able to apologize well, I don’t understand why Kiki couldn’t have done the same thing. Again, I feel that her season needed Muslim writers to really delve into these issues. Also, the whole eight episodes thing? Dumb. They could have delved more into Mohammed’s immigrant experience and Amira reintroducing him to Islam, etc. Why can’t Amiras just get their full seasons for once? 

Onto Zoya, who sadly didn't get her season, but I feel like she was a great character, perhaps closest to the Sana from OG in terms of characterization. She was “no bullshit,” but also the fiercest, loyal friend out of the Austin GS, besides maybe Jo, who really had Kelsey’s back at the end of s2. I feel like we really missed out on seeing her story, as she was a Muslim teen living her high school experience under a Trump presidency and a Muslim travel ban (that’s now thankfully been repealed). I loved that she got Prom Queen in s2, but I hate that literally everyone dropped the ball when it came to supporting her. The GS basically ignored the locker graffiti aka a literal hate crime? *cough cough* hire POC and Muslim writers. She was a queen though, like all Sanas who came before her.

4. esra aydin & imaan elami - skam nl

Imaan was cool, I enjoyed her entrance in s1, which I rewatched just for this ranking. Her little car? The music? I love it! It sucks that she was absent for chunks of s1, but apparently the actress had personal issues, which is why she did not return for s2. Understandable. Long reign her entrance clip.

ESRA! I loved her! I’m so glad that after Imaan’s exit that they decided to cast another Muslim woman for Linn. I love her, I loved her relationship with Ralph and the other characters, and I have a feeling that Skam NL’s season 4 would have been about her. An Esra season would have been great because it would have given us an young adult main outside of high school, and probably further depth into the Esklid character. Again, pour one out for Skam NL :(

5. imane bakhellal - skam france

Imane seems cool. I haven’t watched much of Skam France outside of s3, parts of s6, and s7, which is currently airing. I’ve been wary to watch her season, because I’ve heard about her having to apologize to the GS, and things dealing with Ingrid and her brother... and Sofiane actually dating Manon???? Like, WHAT. IS. GOING. ON. Her Yousef seems cute but dumb. But otherwise, Assa is really pretty and really supportive of her fellow Sana counterparts on Insta, which has endeared her to me. And due to that fact, I will defend Imane to the ends of the earth, and I will watch her season eventually. I promise.

6. yasmina ait omar - wtfock

Yasmina is still a bit of a mystery to the audience, I think. But I do plan to watch her season, if only for Nora Dari, who is very pretty. Bel!Yousef, treat her right!

7. sana allegui - skam italia

No words needed.

[whatareyousearchingfordean]

Happiness Begins

Part 24

Chapter Summary: Jared sets his plan into motion. Elsewhere, the reader works on coming to terms with her struggles over these past few months. 

Word Count: 2.6K+

Warnings: Language, discussion of mental health struggles, 

Author’s Note: Only one more part after this!!! AH! I am tremendously blessed and constantly surprised by all the love and support I have received for this crazy little series. I couldn’t have done it without y’all, so enjoy the fruits of your labor. xo Alex

Catch up with the series masterlist and find more works by yours truly over at Alexandra’s Library! 

The sun was malicious as it beat down on the small Austin country club. It was normally packed on beautiful Sundays and this one was no different. Jensen was cruising down a hill in his golf cart, one of his old high school buddies riding shotgun as they played a full eighteen. It felt nice to get out and do something again for a change. It had been so long since he had any free time, seeing as he was between projects right now, and he wanted to soak up all of it before the next one came along. 

He slowed the cart down as they reached their hole, putting it in park on the flat grassland. He hopped out of the cart and searched his bag for a putter. 

“I don’t understand how you keep beating me. I’ve been practicing for months.” His buddy laughed, Jensen joining in along with him. He opened his mouth to comment, only for another voice to pipe up first.  

“Yeah, he always was the one to beat.” Jensen tensed as he recognised the familiar voice coming up to him and his friend. Jared was alone as he approached the men, but he was smiling brightly. Confusion was evident on Jensen’s face as he tried to determine what was happening. 

“Hey, Jared, good to see you again bud.” Jensen’s friend held out his hand for Jared to shake. 

“Likewise.” He nodded before turning his attention back to Jensen. “It’s good to see you too, man.” Jared pulled Jensen in for a hug, stunning his fellow actor before he returned the sentiment. 

“Can I talk to you?” Jared pointed his thumb behind him, indicating to Jensen that he wanted to talk in private. 

“Uh, sure.” Jensen was hesitant. He wasn’t sure what Jared was playing at yet. Especially considering the last time they talked outside of work, they were in a screaming match. But he followed him a little way away from the cart nonetheless. 

“What’s up?” 

“I figured you’d be here today.” Jared started.

“So are you following me?” 

Jared laughed. “No, no nothing like that.” 

“Then what is it?”

“It’s... well it’s about Y/n.” Jared ran a hand through his hair, pushing the long locks out of his face. He had a smile on his face, but Jensen could read the pain that hid behind it. 

“Jared…”

“No, just listen. I want you to know, I’m sorry. I fucked up, okay? I was selfish and stupid and I should have seen it sooner. I guess I couldn’t believe that you weren’t just using her to pass the time because it was easy.” Jared admitted. “And I hate myself for ever thinking that. I know you better than that. I think it was just my protective older brother coming out. You know she hasn’t had the best track record with guys, and I just couldn’t see past that for some reason.” Jared sighed. “You two, well, you guys are actually pretty perfect for each other, no matter how weird I may feel about that. And I’ll be honest, I do still feel weird. But I’m working on it.”

Jensen sighed, rubbing his hand across the full beard that adorned his face. “That’s great Jared, really I’m glad, but I think it’s a little late.” 

“Why do you say that?” 

“Y/n doesn’t want anything to do with me. I hurt her. I took back every promise I made to her. I don’t deserve her forgiveness anyway.” Jensen didn’t go into specifics, Jared would get the picture with what little he had offered. 

“Yeah, she is hurting. She’s hurting something fierce. I’ve honestly never seen her this way and it scares me. I overheard her tell Gen she is thinking of selling her business and moving to New York. Got some big offer from a huge beauty conglomerate. Didn’t even feel like she could tell me about it either.” Jared explained. Jensen’s head snapped up, his brows coming together on his forehead. 

“No, Y/n would never do that.” 

“That’s what I thought too. But she’s been offered some huge deal to sell her shares and be a VP for this new company. And she is seriously thinking of accepting it.” Jensen adjusted the ball cap on top of his head. 

“Why would she do that?” Jensen’s words came out in a sigh.

“Do you really have to ask that question?” Jared put a hand on his hip when Jensen scoffed at him. 

“Come on, you can’t put that on me.”

“I’m not blaming you, I swear. Y/n is hurting though, and I don’t think that anyone else will be able to talk her out of it.” Jared said honestly. 

“So that’s why you’re really here, to beg me to convince your sister to not run away because of me.” Jensen rolled his tongue behind his teeth, biting back the urge to yell. That would never get him anywhere. 

“I meant what I said. I am sorry. But I also know that she won’t listen to me. She may however, listen to you.” Jared jumped to the defensive the second the angry words left Jensen’s mouth. “Look, I’m not saying you two should pick up things where you left them, not that I would care either way, but she loves you in a way that I have never seen before, and that has to count for something.” 

“It did, at one point. Now, I’m not so sure.” Jared frowned at his friend. In one way, he did need his help, but at the same time he understood his hesitancy. They didn’t have the greatest history where his sister was concerned. 

“Just let me get you two in the same room. Then we can let it happen naturally. What do you say?” What could Jensen say to that. As much as he was hesitant about tricking her into something, he didn’t want her to go. Danneel’s words had been haunting him since he had returned from LA. Jensen had been on the fence about whether he should take her advice and go after the woman he loved, and if he let her run off to New York, he may never get his chance. Y/n deserved to have all the facts before she made such a huge decision. She needed to know that he wouldn’t let her go without a fight. 

“Ok, Jare.”

****

Gen’s words were still ringing in her head as she carried her tired body up the stairs to her apartment. Having babysat the three littlest Padalecki’s for the night, she was more exhausted than she had been in a while. She had forgotten how wild they could get sometimes, and she just had to be the fun aunt and cave when they begged for cookies. Three kids hopped up on sugar was, in hindsight, a bad idea. 

In the end, she was thankful for her time with family. Being able to spend real time with them had what Gen said to her affecting her more than she thought it would. She had all but made up her mind about going to New York, but the more she thought about it, the more the idea actually scared her. It was a big step to take, and she still had at least one more person to talk to before she called Mr. Baltussen back. 

The next morning, when she rolled out of bed, the sun was already high in the sky. She had slept far past her normal time, but for the first time in a while, she felt rested. Maybe it had to do with her plans for today. Or maybe she had truly needed to exhaust her body in order to get a truly restful sleep. Either way, she saw it as a bright sign. It was her reason to keep moving forward. 

Seeing as she slept in a little later than normal, she had to make quick work of showering and getting dressed before her appointment. Y/n plucked her favorite pair of converse from the stand near her front door and plopped down on her couch to put them on. As her weight settled in the middle of the couch she felt something bump her hip. She turned, her brow scrunched together on her forehead to find her laptop falling into her hip.  

“Seriously,” she huffed to herself. After all the time she spent looking yesterday, it had been on her couch all along. She could have sworn she checked the cushions, but apparently not as well as she thought. Y/n picked up the device and set it on the coffee table so she would be sure of where it was later, before bouncing out the door. 

Nothing had changed about the small office she once again found herself in. The walls were still the same soft shade of green she used love some time ago. They still held the same paintings and the plants that had once threatened to overtake the room were still alive and strong. Even the couch that she had hated sitting at was still full of accent pillows that tossed a splash of color into the otherwise neutral room. 

Y/n took a deep breath, allowing the essentials oils diffused into the space to ground her. It was like she had never left, and there was nothing she was more thankful for at this moment. When Gen had said she should talk to someone, she didn’t know Y/n had already scheduled this appointment. She had fallen so far from being a reasonably functioning human being. Just seeing Jensen and Danneel together and admitting out loud she wanted to sell her business, had sent her into a tailspin. Y/n had reached her breaking point, and she wasn’t hesitant to admit that she needed help. 

“Please, take a seat.” Dr. Hawkins stood up from her place behind her desk as Y/n entered, picking up her notepad and taking a seat in the armchair across from the couch. Y/n complied to her request, making herself comfortable on the soft furniture. 

“It’s been a while since we talked last. Where do you want to start?” Y/n bit her lip as she contemplated her choices. It truly had been a long time since she had been to see her therapist, and with everything that had happened in her life, she could build her way up or just jump right into things. “How about we start with work?” Dr. Hawkins suggested after a moment of silence. 

“Work is hectic. Things are really hitting off, not to mention I just spent the last few months juggling my business and working on set with my brother.” Y/n fidgeted in her seat, a movement that did not go unnoticed by Dr. Hawkins. 

“Yeah, and how did that go?” 

“Not at all how I expected.” Y/n was gnawing on her lip again. She wasn’t sure why she was hesitant to talk. After all, that was the whole reason she was here in the first place. Hell, she might as well just jump right into it. Y/n took a deep breath. “Long story short, I slept with Jared’s best friend slash co-star slash guy he considered his brother. All behind his back, for months.” 

“And why do you think you did that?” Y/n scoffed. She should have seen that question coming, she just expected more of a reaction. 

“Because I’m an idiot. Because the guy made me feel safe, and beautiful, and loved. I think I was lonely after clashing with my mother at Christmas about my dating life and also being stood up. He fed me every line I wanted to hear and for some reason I believed him.” 

“What makes you think he was lying to you?” 

“He told me he was all in. That he loved me and wanted to be with just me. He said it wasn’t just about the sex. But then Jared found out and things got bad. Jared punched him and wouldn’t talk to either of us. For weeks.” Tears were brimming in her eyes. Recounting everything was harder than she thought it was going to be. Admitting it out loud to another person broke her out of whatever bubble she had put herself into. It all sounded so ridiculous coming out of her mouth. “When things got tough he just bailed.”

“What exactly did he say to you?” Dr. Hawkins pushed.

“He said that we ‘all needed a break’.” Y/n made air quotes with her fingers. “His reasoning was that he wanted to give me my brother back and he knew I could live without without Jared.” 

“Was he wrong?” 

“You know me. Family is everything to me. He just failed to see that I can’t live without him either.” It was hard for her to admit that out loud. After all, she had promised herself that a man would not define her life. Yet here she was, a broken shell of a woman because Jensen left her. It was a constant battle inside her head, a seesaw bouncing back and forth against her skull. Most days it was just exhausting. 

“To me, it sounds like he didn’t lie to you. He may not have gone about things exactly like you wanted, but that doesn’t mean that he was ever insincere with you.” 

“What about me seeing him with his ex fiance all over the media? He told me he was over her, but they are out in L.A. together having dinner.” 

Dr. Hawkin’s lips curled up in a small smile. “Are they still friends?” 

“Not that I know of. I mean, she was at his birthday party a few months ago.” 

“So what is to say it wasn’t just two friends getting together? Who says it had to be romantic? Was there any indication they were intimate?” Oh, she was good. Y/n scrunched her nose up, shaking her head. Of course her broken heart had soaked up what the media had fed her to fuel its own story on things. 

“You know, I understand now when people call therapists ‘common sense filters’.” Dr. Hawkins chuckled along with the messed up woman across from her. 

“So, let’s say that he truly did love you. Perhaps his leaving hurt him just as much as it hurt you. Maybe he needed a friend to talk to? Isn’t that why you are here, to talk to somebody?” 

“Yeah.”

“And did you patch things up with your brother?”

“We are working through things.” 

“It sounds to me that he made the right choice.” 

Y/n bit back the tears. “And me and him? Where does that leave us?”

“Do you forgive him?” Y/n nodded. Of course she forgave him. She would be lying if she said she didn’t. Somewhere deep down, even as pathetic as it sounds, she forgave him the minute her and Jared started talking again. “Then as cliché as it sounds, if it is meant to be, you’ll find your way back to each other.” 

“You’re right, that does sound cliché.” Both women laughed, the moment lifting from Y/n’s shoulders. 

“You know, it is okay to mourn your loss. Because that’s what this was. It was a loss, Y/n. All that matters is that you don’t let that grief run your life. And that’s something I tell all my mourning patients. You are a strong and smart woman. I know you’ll get through this.” Dr. Hawkins pushed away her notepad, her full attention on Y/n. 

“Yeah, I see that now.” Y/n smiled, allowing more of the weight on her shoulders to dissipate. Right now, she was kicking herself for not coming back sooner. But that’s what happens, life gets in the way sometimes. What matters now is that she found her way back. Her way back to Austin, to her family. And she would find her way back to happiness, even if it isn’t in the way she expects. More than that, she would find peace.

Part 25 (Final)

Forevers: @spn-impala​​ @22sarah08​​ @turtlepad​​ @callmekda​​ @chaldei​​ @hobby27​​ @cowboysnwinchesters​​ @tranquility-or-chaos​​ @pikabootoyouchu​​ @dawnie1988​​ @grease222​​ @awesome-badass-cafeteria-sauce​​ @polina-93​​ @clarinette07​​ @moonlight-babeh​​ @suckerforfanfic​​ @witandnargles​​ @sleepylunarwolf​ @stiles-stilinski-24-dylan​ @geeksareunique​ @akshi8278​ @superfanficnatural​ @malfoysqueen14​ @deanwanddamons​ @waywardbeanie​ @emoryhemsworth​

Et Cetera: @jbbarnesgirl​ @hillface89​ @arses21434​ @thevelvetseries​ @sslater34​ @mrsirishboru​ @smoothdogsgirl​ @spnfamily-j2​ @encounterthepast​ @facadeformyrealblog  @supernatural-bellawinchester​ @screechingartisancashbailiff​​ @rebeccathefangirl​ @squirrelnotsam​ @heartinmyhead1​ @1d-killed-me​ @samsgirl93​ @deans-baby-momma​ @deanmonandnegansbitch​ @woodworthti666​ @supraveng​ @onethirstyunicorn​ @heartsaved​ @know2grow​ @littlewhiterose​ @surprisinglysarah​ @stoneyggirl​ @carryon-doctor-lock​ @thebookisbtr​ @youaremyfiveever​ @kalesrebellion​ @lilulo-12​ @winchester-fantasies​ @vicmc624​ @supernatural3002​ @winchester-writes​ @maralisa124​ @therollingstoners​ @parinarain​ @kaz11283​ @charmed-asylum​ 

[austin-cartwright]

Rolling her eyes as she leaned forward, nearly dropping the container of food in her lap, to grab an egg roll from the coffee table. Taking a bite of the fried appetizer, Austin leaned back and made herself more comfortable on the couch, short legs stretching out and poking at her twin brother's side just to annoy him as she bit back a grin. "I'm not helping you do shit if you're not going to give me forks and stuff when I'm over here just because I said I don't care if the match." Her tone was teasing, as was the grin on her features as she chewed another bite of egg roll obnoxiously. They both knew she was all talk, of course. She'd be there next week with bags and bags from Home Goods to help him decorate his new home. She may talk a lot of shit but she'd do anything for Dallas. "You can have a bite." Holding out the container with an iron grip, she held the now nearly finished egg roll in her mouth as she positioned the chopsticks in her now free hand in as threatening of a manner as she could. It was a silent communication, one she knew Dallas would understand. If he tried to take more than the one bite allowed she'd jab him with the chopsticks.

Normally, admitting how she felt was difficult for the photographer. She was open with most things in her life, with strangers hearing far too many inappropriate stories while she was traveling, just looking for people to talk to. Their mother called her a natural oversharer. And it was truth- but only with everything and anything that didn't matter. When it came to her emotions and feelings? Austin kept those close to the chest. But not with Dallas. It was cliche but because he was quite literally part of her, half of her soul it felt like at times, that she could tell him anything. And she did... most of the time. There were still some things she kept to herself, afraid to speak them into existence. Like her feelings for a man she hadn't even admitted to herself she felt. "I get that, but for what it's worth I'm glad you didn't. I don't know if I'd be able to stay without you here." Her sincere tone was accompanied by a soft smile shot in her brother's direction, both fleeting as she rolled her eyes in his direction once more. "Feelings for Max? C'mon, just because you're obsessed with Hana doesn't mean I like Max like that. But I am happy to be back with him and Atlas. And Kat. And everyone else, you brat." Finishing off the last bite of egg roll and nestling her container of chow mein protectively in her lap, Austin reached for a beer and took a long drink from it. "Okay but having mom do the decorating would be perfect. Say what you want about Rosie but she knows how to throw together a color pallet like nobody I know. She'll have this place looking like a bachelor pad in a magazine in less than 24 hours." She grinned. "Plus that means I don't have to drag my ass out here again. Sounds like a win/win for me." ( @dallasxcartwright )

"Noted...no cutlery for you next time. I still need you to come over next week and help me finish decorating this place, though." Despite being back a few months already, his place lacked the hominess that likely would've made moving home and settling in easier. "Change is only good when it comes to greasy takeout." As quick as the takeout container was snatched away from him, Austin was on the receiving end of an eye roll of his own. "At least leave me a few bites...I know how you get with chow mein and it's not pretty." His gaze scanned along the array of takeout dishes before he settled on one and leaned back into the couch.

Dallas wasn't surprised in the least to hear that Austin was struggling too, and yet it still provided a sense of relief for him. Maybe he wasn't as bad of a son and sibling as he thought for not settling back in as easily as the rest of their siblings seemed to. "I feel like I should've continued my road trip for another year or something. I like teaching and actually finally putting teacher's college to use, but the schedule kinda sucks. Bet you're over the moon being back with Atlas and Max. Speaking of Max, ever plan on telling him you've got the hots for him?" Her next words about their mom elicited a chuckle. "Rookie mistake...shouldn't have told her where you're staying. Just make sure you don't give her my address yet. She's not seeing my place until it's finished. I love her and all, but I'm not about to have her come try and become an interior designer."

[bellakitse]

We begin on a Tuesday

When the 126 have a spot to fill in their crew, Judd recommends his buddy Carlos Reyes from the 121.

*

Firefighter Carlos AU!

30 days of Tarlos - Day 16 

Part 1 of a 3 part series 

TK meets Carlos Reyes on a Tuesday. He studies him quietly from across the table between them as his father interviews the good-looking firefighter for a recently open position in their team. He and his father have been in Austin for almost eight months now, and in that time, they have built a solid crew, but when Price requests a transfer because her wife got a promotion that requires relocation, they’re left with a spot to fill.

Judd is the one that comes to them with Carlos Reyes as a candidate; the man sings his praises; he tells them about Carlos’ record, his instincts as a firefighter, his empathy, and his loyalty. It’s obvious by the way Judd speaks about his friend that he respects him – given that it’s taken months for him to earn the same level of respect from him, TK is impressed before they even meet with Carlos.

“I have to say, Reyes,” Owen starts, he looks down at his notes like he’s studying them again. TK sucks in the corner of his bottom lip to keep from smirking. His father has read it more than once, and though this interview has been going on for almost thirty minutes now, he knows his father made up his mind less than ten minutes in.  “Judd was right; you really are impressive.”

Carlos doesn’t blush, but it’s a near thing as he gives them a small smile. “Judd is a good friend, sir, he might have embellished a bit,” he says humbly, and TK has to bite down on his lip to keep from letting out a ridiculous smitten sigh.  He can’t help it though; Carlos Reyes is a dream, he’s the walking definition of tall, dark, and handsome. Add to that his soft voice, and bashfulness and TK is already crushing hard.

“Captain Blake also raves about you,” his dad continues, and this time Carlos does blush.

“Michelle has known me since I was in high school, I had classes with her sister,” he explains with a shrug. “She’s my best friend.”

“So she embellished too?” Owen questions with a raised eyebrow and a grin.

“Probably,” Carlos chuckles softly before turning serious. “I’m good at my job, sir. I work hard, and I make a commitment every time I put on the uniform to be the best I can be for the people we’re here to help, but most importantly, for my team. If I’m not, one of them can get hurt, and I’m not about to let that happen.”

TK looks over at his dad catching the glint in his eye; it’s one he’s familiar with, an understanding of that instinct to protect, to save, he’s seen it in the eyes of every one of his crew members at some point.

“You’ve been with the 121 for two years now, Carlos,” his father comments curiously. “That’s a long time to bond with a crew, and by what you just said, it’s obvious you’re loyal. Why consider coming here to us?”

Carlos makes a complicated face before letting out a sigh. “You’ve had run-ins with my former Captain, Billy Tyson,” he says matter of fact. Now it’s TK who makes a face at the reminder of the man that tried to take his father’s job.

He turns a little red when Carlos’ eyes stray to him; the way the corners of his mouth lift lets him know he caught his reaction.

“I hear he’s getting better,” his dad answers much more politely than TK could ever be.

“So I hear,” Carlos says with a tight smile. “But given that you know him and what he pulled here by trying to take your firehouse, you know Tyson is a bigot,” Carlos continues, not holding back. “His temporary replacement is cut from the same cloth.”

Owen sighs with a deep frown on his face. “Disappointing but not surprising, unfortunately.”

“I agree,” Carlos answers, his eyes drifting back to him for a moment before looking back at his dad. “It’s not a great place to be an ‘other’ as you can imagine, and that’s what I am because I’m gay.”

TK sees how the words cause his dad to sit up straighter, that protective streak of his radiating off him.

He feels a kinship instantly to Carlos; he remembers his first firehouse before ending up in his dad’s. It’s never easy being considered different, and he sympathizes with Carlos and what he might have to put up with on a daily basis to do his job.

“Now I’m not saying that Tyson or anyone else at the 121 discriminated against me because of my sexual orientation,” Carlos says quickly. “If that had been the case, I would have had them before a review faster than they could blink.”

“That’s right,” Owen says instantly, and with force, it makes Carlos smile, more freely and comfortable than before.

“Right,” he repeats, still smiling for a moment before it’s wiped away from his expression. “But even though they never discriminated against me, there has always been a wall between my team and me that I can’t seem to overcome.”

Carlos looks down at his hands, and TK can’t help but ache for him. His team is his family; he can’t imagine what it must feel like not to have that with the people that your life depends on.

“That’s why Judd recommended me for your team,” Carlos explains, giving them a half-smile. “He’s my friend, and he wants me to be in a place where I will be accepted. He talks about you, Captain, with so much respect and admiration.”

Carlos’ gaze finds him again, soft brown eyes that are warm and lovely, and TK just wants to get lost in them.

“He talks about the team,” Carlos says softly, his stare staying on him now, and TK has to remind himself to breathe. He’s been around good looking men before, but he’s never had an immediate reaction to a man the way he’s having one now with Carlos. It’s more than just Carlos’ pretty face; there is something in those brown eyes of his that TK is instantly connected too. “You’re his family; he and Michelle want me to have the same; that’s why they asked you to interview me.”

Owen makes a soft sound in the back of his throat, his face is neutral, but TK knows his father well, and knows he’s affected by Carlos’ words. “Carlos, would you mind stepping out of the office for a moment?”

“Of course,” Carlos says as he quickly gets up from his seat and heads for the door, at the last moment, he turns back to them. “Whatever you decide, sir, I appreciate that I was even considered. And given everything Judd has been through, I’m grateful you’ve made him feel welcomed,” he tells them with a nod before he walks out, closing the door behind him.

The office is quiet for a moment after Carlos leaves, TK studies his dad, waiting for him to speak.

“What do you think?” he asks finally, and TK can’t help but chuckle.

“Why are you even asking me that, when you’ve already adopted him in your head, dad?” he questions, raising an eyebrow when Owen tries to protest.

“Okay, fine,” Owen huffs begrudgingly. “Maybe I’m considering adopting him.”

“I know,” he says, laughing again at his father. “You’re awesome that way.”

Owen grins at him. “Did you like him?”

“Yeah,” he says quickly, knowing it’s entirely true. It’s not just that he’s attracted to Carlos, though he is, ridiculously so for someone he’s known for less than an hour and who spent most of that time talking to his dad and not him. He likes Carlos as a person; what little he knows of him just makes him want to know more; he wants to know everything. “I really liked him.”

The words aren’t completely out of his mouth, but he knows he’s said too much from the way his dad’s expression changes in a second, it goes from considering to amused in the blink of an eye.

“Oh TK,” he says, chuckling in a way that has him blushing at how knowing he sounds. “That fast, kid? Really?”

TK blushes harder, scowling when it just makes his dad chuckle some more. “Shut up, dad,” he says, standing up.

“Well then, on top of feeling like Carlos would be a good fit here,” his dad starts, zero remorse for his amusement at his expense. “It will be fun to see you deal with a crush; it’s been a while.”

TK ignores the ribbing for now and focuses on the rest of his dad’s comment. “So, you’re hiring him?”

Owen rolls his eyes at him. “Even if I didn’t like him, on qualifications alone, I would be nuts not too. He was being too humble; he’s damn good at his job. Plus, I do like him, and I don’t like the idea of him spending one more second in the 121 where he’s obviously not comfortable. This is a no brainer.”

TK smiles, his heart full of love for his father and his kindness. “Good, I’m glad.”

“I bet you are,” Owen snorts, and TK loses his smile to glare at him. “Go, let him know he’s ours now.”

TK rolls his eyes, but even now, he can’t hide that he’s pleased by his father’s decision.

“And TK?” he calls out, stopping him just as he reaches for the door. “Keep it professional while on the clock.”

He doesn’t say anything as he leaves, arguing with his father would be pointless. His dad has always been able to read him clear as day, and he knows when he’s interested in someone.

He finds Carlos downstairs sitting down on the edge of the ladder truck; he stays quiet as he takes a seat next to him.

“So,” he says, looking over at Carlos, swallowing hard when he turns his head to look at him. Up close, those brown eyes are stunning with their specks of gold.

“So,” he says back with a soft look on his face. “What’s the verdict?”

“Oh please,” he says sarcastically with a grin. “You won him over about five seconds after you sat down. You’re officially his new favorite.”

Carlos chuckles, shaking his head, the smile on his face is like sunshine.

“Come on,” he says, patting Carlos’ shoulder before standing up. “I’ll introduce you to the crew, and let's see if you can charm the pants off them too.”

Carlos gets up, bringing his body close to his as he goes to his full height, this close TK is even more struck by his beauty.

“Charm their pants off, huh?” Carlos grins, it makes his eyes crinkle at the corners, and TK is sure his heart is going to burst out of his chest from beating so hard. It beats with the knowledge that this is the beginning of something. “Yours too?”

TK licks his lips, his stomach clenching as Carlos’ eyes drop to his mouth, his eyes darkening when he looks up at him again. He smiles, the anticipation of what’s to come coursing through him. “If you play your cards right.”