#i think i wanna make a tiny like small little series who knows!
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milkbreadandtadpoles · 1 year ago
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stsg x angel
˚ ༘ ೀ⋆。˚⋆˚🐾˖°⋆。°🎧•‧.₊˚🐰‎₊˚⋆⭒。⋆୨୧˚˚ ༘ ೀ⋆。˚⋆˚🐾˖°⋆。°🎧•‧.₊˚🐰‎₊˚⋆⭒
snippet: measly 0.5k of an insight into my poly!stsg brain. reader is neutral!
warnings: stsg it it's own warning. suggestive language, suggestive dom/sub behavior and dynamics. reader being a pouty angel ଘ(੭ˊᵕˋ)੭* ੈ✩‧₊ also, proabably poorly edited
author's note: dawg i just had some inspo and had to put thoughts to paper. and i must share! please enjoy my brain rot, my little clan of followers and those who will be searching in these tags.
˚ ༘ ೀ⋆。˚⋆˚🐾˖°⋆。°🎧•‧.₊˚🐰‎₊˚⋆⭒。⋆୨୧˚˚ ༘ ೀ⋆。˚⋆˚🐾˖°⋆。°🎧•‧.₊˚🐰‎₊˚⋆⭒
“Would you suck the strap?”
“It’s seven thirty in the morning, Satoru. Please don’t start right now.”
“But I’m serious!”
“Shut up, Suguru is still sleeping.”
“I’m not.”
You palm your face, glaring at Satoru through your fingers, “You woke him up.”
“I doubt me talking about your sexual tendencies woke up the household princess.”
“Can you just flip the pancakes?”
“Oh, you’re making pancakes?” Suguru murmurs, gruff and syrupy. His hair is haphazard, yet silky and smooth. The frizzled strands frame his angular, gaunt face. It’s too cold for there to be color in his face, kissed by late moonlight instead.
“Yes, like the mother hen I am.”
Suguru has a sleepy, languid smile on his face when he watches you roll your eyes. You’re in the prettiest pajama set- cozy and warm and accentuated, eyes still riddled with sleep, head of hair a little out of place. But the light flooding the kitchen makes your cheeks glow.
“We don’t need a mother hen in the house.”
“Oh, please,” Satoru snorts, waving around a spatula with chunks of gooey batter threatening to splash against the back of the kitchen wall, “‘Toru, please make me some breakfast. Toru, I’ll give you a kiss if you-“
“I didn’t say that.” You bark, brows furrowing. Placing your hands on your hips, you frown.
Satoru beams. “You might as well have- it was with your eyes.”
“My eyes?” There’s a pout on your face when Suguru has the audacity to smile. “They were half closed when I walked into the kitchen this morning-“
“They wouldn’t have been if you drank the tea I made you-“
“I did drink it.”
“Oh?” Satoru’s lips quirk, satisfaction apparent in his shrewd smile. “You’re such a good pet for listening.”
Your cheeks burst into flames, mortification further trailing into the deep lining of your gut when the little, white haired freak has the audacity to coo. Suguru holds a hand up, and both of you quiet. Submission is a small word compared to what authority he can pull from the two of you.
“It’s seven thirty in the morning, Satoru.”
And you smile, looking at the man who might as well have hung the moon and stars and sun himself. Shit, he might as well be the sun. The gravitational pull of the planet of you and Satoru that make it bearable living together.
That shatters briefly when he murmurs slyly to Satoru as he flips a partly burnt pancake, “Give it at least an hour or two before you start making her look like that.”
“Suguru.” You whine and he smiles the type of smile that melts your insides.
Huffing a breath, he tells you about going to get ready, to be good before he leaves the kitchen- abandoning you and Satoru in a vice like silence. There’s a pout on your face, laboriously crawling onto the kitchen counter to swing your sock-covered feet while the devious little shit continues to stack up pancakes as though there were four more of you in the house.
But they have an insatiable appetite, so it's a comment you hold with a bite of your tongue.
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theyluvkarolina · 4 months ago
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౨ৎ PLAYING FAVORITES ౨ৎ
masterlist / rules / requests & talks with me!
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SUMMARY౨ৎ Oscar’s daughter has favorites. And sadly, he isn’t one of hers, in fact her favorite happens to be her favorite American, Logan. He says it’s fine and that he doesn’t care… but actions speak louder than words.
PAIRING ౨ৎ Not really a pairing, but reader makes multiple apperances 🩵
WARNINGS ౨ৎ Sadie being a menace
A/N ౨ৎ got requested more sadie, the more sadie you shall receive. i was writing this before the logan news and i’m absolutely distraught. i decided to start from the group up and include logan to feel a bit better hurt ❤️‍🩹
Part of the Dad Oscar mini-series 🩵
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“Sadie, are you ready to see Dad drive fast?” You asked, adjusting her little McLaren cap as I held her hand to the garage.
“No.” Sadie says bluntly in her toddler way, her lips forming a small pout as she clutched the tiny stuffed koala Oscar had bought her from her a year ago from Australia.
You couldn’t help but blink at her straightforwardness, crouching down to be at eye level with her. “No? Not even to cheer him on?”
Sadie shook her head with determination. “No. Wanna see Logan.”
Sadie’s pout deepened, and she hugged her koala closer to her chest. “Logan’s funny.”
“Yes, he is. But you know who else is funny? Daddy. Remember when he made silly faces during breakfast?” You suggested.
Sadie tilted her head, considering this for a moment, before shaking her head again. “Logan’s funnier.”
Before you could respond, you heard footsteps approaching, and there was Oscar, already in his race suit, with a forced grin on his face, clearly overheard the conversation. “Hey, little miss,” he greeted giving a kiss on your cheek before crouching down beside you and holding out his arms for a hug.
Sadie looked at him for a moment, then back at you, before finally deciding to toddle over and give him a quick hug. It was short, sweet, but not as enthusiastic as the ones she usually reserved for Logan recently.
Oscar’s smile faltered for just a second, but he quickly recovered, lifting her up in his arms. “Guess I’ll have to up my game if I want to be the favorite, huh?” he teased, though there was a trace of something more behind his words.
“Daddy’s funny,” Sadie said, almost as if she was trying to console him.
“Yeah?” Oscar’s eyes lit up with hope, but Sadie quickly added, “But Logan’s funnier.”
You winced, but Oscar just laughed it off, giving her a playful tickle. “Well, Logan better watch out then, because I’m coming for his title.”
This was going to be a long day for Oscar.
`· . ୨୧⭒๋࣭ ⭑
The buzz of the McLaren garage was background noise to Oscar as he watched his Sadie, toddle around with a bright smile on her face. It was a year after her first ever Grand Prix… and safe to say you and Oscar have definitely learned a lot from it. Normally, her little smile would make his heart swell with pride, but today, it was bittersweet. The reason? Logan Sargeant was the source of her joy, not him.
Logan, Logan, Logan. that was the name coming out of her mouth the past month.
Sadie had been enamored with Logan since the first time she was born. Who wouldn’t when their godfather was her dad’s best friend who happened to have the same job?
She would light up at the sight of him, smiling at every chance she could excitedly in her toddler way, always eager to be scooped up into his arms. And Logan, the ever-charming American, was more than happy to oblige.
Oscar leaned against the wall, arms crossed, watching as Logan lifted Sadie into the air, eliciting giggles that echoed around the garage. He tried to convince himself that it didn’t bother him. So what if Sadie liked Logan more? It wasn’t a competition. He was her father, not Logan. Surely she likes him more.
Right?
“Hey, mate. You good?” Lando’s voice snapped Oscar out of his thoughts. His teammate had appeared beside him, eyebrow raised in concern.
Oscar forced a smile. “Yeah, I’m fine. Just… thinking.”
Lando followed his gaze to where Logan was now letting Sadie play with his cap, much to her delight. “Looks like someone’s got a new best friend.”
Oscar’s smile faltered slightly. “Yeah… guess she does.”
Lando didn’t miss the hint of disappointment in Oscar’s voice. “You know she still loves you, right? Kids go through phases.”
“I know, I know,” Oscar replied, trying to sound nonchalant as he rolls his eyes. “It’s just… I didn’t think I’d be playing second fiddle to Logan, of all people.”
Lando chuckled. “Well, at least she has good taste. Logan is fun… in his weird American way. Baseball, football, hotdogs and stuff like that. But you’re still her dad… no one can take that from you.”
Oscar nodded, though his eyes were still glued to the scene in front of him. Logan was now teaching Sadie how to high-five, her little hand smacking against his with enthusiasm. The sight should’ve made Oscar laugh, but instead, it made him feel… left out.
“Maybe,” Oscar said quietly, “…but sometimes it feels like I’m just not enough for her.”
Lando looked at him, surprised by the admission. “Oscar, she’s a 2-year-old. It’s not about you being enough or not. She just likes Logan because he’s fun and new. Trust me, when she needs comfort, when she’s upset or scared, it’s you she’ll run to.”
“Did you indirectly call me old and boring?”
“You know what I meant!”
Oscar wanted to believe that, but watching Sadie beam up at Logan made it hard. He knew he was being irrational, that he shouldn’t let a child’s innocent preferences get to him, but the sting was still there.
“…Zak is calling me over.” Lando gave a sigh, running a hand through his hair as he spots the CEO waving a hand over. “Just keep what I said in mind. She loves you Oscar. Sadie’s just happy to see a face she rarely sees. Good luck in quali, yeah?”
Oscar nodded as Lando walked away, but his focus was still on Sadie and Logan. He wasn’t used to feeling like this—jealous of his best friend, of all people. It was silly, really, but he couldn’t shake it.
As the preparations for Qualifications continued, the garage was abuzz with activity. Oscar was trying to get back into the right mindset when he felt a familiar hand on his shoulder.
“You look deep in thought,” You said, coming up beside him with a warm smile.
Oscar turned to her, managing a half-hearted smile. “Just thinking. You know how it is.”
Your eyes followed his gaze to where Sadie and Logan were now playing with a small toy car. “She seems to be having a blast with Logan.”
Oscar sighed. “Yeah, she’s been obsessed with him lately. It’s like I’m invisible.”
Your expression softened. You wrapped an arm around him and gave him a reassuring squeeze. “You’re not invisible, Oscar. Kids can be unpredictable. Logan’s just the new fun thing right now. It doesn’t change how much she loves you.”
Oscar looked at you, the weight of your words hitting him. “I know you’re right. I just hate feeling like I’m second place.”
“Oscar,” You said, lifting his chin with a gentle touch. “Sadie is 2 years-old. I think you need to remember that Sadie’s attachment to Logan doesn’t diminish her love for you. She’s just interested in her godfather she rarely sees. If anything, it just means she’s comfortable with the people around her, and that’s a good thing. Remember how she went from hating everything Lando did in the free practices to loving him at the end of the day? It’s the same thing. You’re her dad, and that’s a role no one else can fill.”
Oscar took a deep breath, letting your words sink in. Your gentle touch and reassuring smile helped ease the knot of insecurity that had settled in his chest. He glanced back at Sadie and Logan, and the sight of his daughter’s unrestrained joy started to warm his heart, even if the jealousy still lingered a bit.
The buzz of the garage continued around you both, and Oscar gave a thoughtful exhale, a much needed one. “Thank you, lovely. I guess I needed that.”
You gave him a soft smile, then glanced over at Sadie. “Logan might be fun for her at the moment, but remember that she’ll always be the one calling you dad.”
Oscar’s lips curved into a grin at your comment.
Yeah. Dad does sound pretty nice.
“Dad!”
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tubbytarchia · 11 months ago
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Doc and Jimmy brainrot part 1 lmao oh no
Basically "What if Doc was in the Life games and Jimmy triggered his parental instincts again". You guys will see my vision. I don't care what it takes. You will see this very specific vision I have god damn it if it's the last thing I do
This is all I have to use as propaganda right now but some ideas and justification below cut!!
Been imagining a lot of Doc/Jimmy interactions both in a traffic and HC context, both of which I'd love to draw for but obvs this for now is 3rd life and I want to draw a little something for each Life series. You'll see!!
The general idea is inspired by a moment from one of the Decked Out streams in which Jimmy calls for Etho and Doc's all "you're triggering my parental instinct... I wanna take you into my hand and take you to a safe place" yep that's it that's the whole inspiration!!
Jimmy deserves love and he does get it to various degrees ofc (Tango, Bad Boys etc) but man... It's so fun to me to imagine Doc in traffic, I think he claimed that he didn't want to be part of the life games because he was afraid of being too competitive (or so I heard), but god it's so fun to imagine big scary mad scientist goat man in that scenario and him probably going at it on his own a lot of the time, but this god forsaken mf Jimmy knows exactly how to unintentionally trigger his parental instincts. I want Doc to subtly take Jimmy under his wing especially as Jimmy keeps dying first. So maybe Jimmy is a bit incompetent and loud as far as he knows, but he sees that he's trying his best and the dad in him can't help but intervene just a tiny bit (and I do mean just a tiny bit) as the games go on. Yes I'm just gonna shove Doc into the Life Games just because I wish this dynamic could have happened and I beg you to put up with it!!
For the above drawing specifically since, sigh, I'm slow and that's all I have to offer rn... it's of course 3rd life, starting off. I imagine Jimmy's wings sprouting during that, because the whole "canary curse" began with the Life Games etc. And this post isn't about FH but just for context as I imagine it, Scott who doesn't like unpredictability convinces him to clip his wings (thanks Bree) because Jimmy's not a proper avian (unlike Grian who has a more "airborne" body, bird feet etc rather than just... wings) and he'd never be able to take flight anyway, those wings would only encumber him. (And then Jimmy keeps clipping them himself until DL Ranchers but cough this post isn't about that). I imagine the avians (for my specific roster, just Grian) have their wings magically clipped anyway just enough to prevent flight and make the games fair. Doc ofc isn't avian himself but he knows that Grian greatly frowns upon the act of willingly clipping wings so when he sees that Jimmy's quickly growing wings have been clipped as well, he can't help but ask, because why would that be necessary while his wings are so small anyway? And Jimmy's response triggers a wee bit of fatherly concern in him but thats it for 3rd life woo
For the rest I just wanna draw more tiny moments of interaction until I get to Secret Life, I guess!! The brainrot is really fucking strong guys
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rispwr · 4 months ago
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If i were you i'd do me - JK - MDNI - 2
pairings : fuckboy! jk x fem! reader, established relationship, mentions of smart! namjoon x oc, slow burn, enemies to lovers
contents/warnings : rich! oc, nepo! oc, fuckboy! jk, rich! jk, slight love triangle, smut, spoiled! oc, jk, big c! jk, fingering, semi-public xxx
taglist : comment if yall wanna be added
context : Jungkook, the notorious campus heartbreaker and player, unexpectedly becomes your groupmate alongside Namjoon, the guy you’ve secretly admired for ages. However, it seems your feelings have started shifting from Namjoon to someone else entirely unexpected…
two or three part series
It had been a week and a half since the group project began, and we only had two days left before we were supposed to present. I couldn't believe how fast the deadline was approaching. Surprisingly, Jungkook and I had managed to get along a little better in the past few days, although our relationship was still complicated. There was definitely more tension between us—lots of bickering over small details in the project, but there was also something else. A weird undercurrent of sexual tension seemed to creep into our interactions, though I tried to ignore it as much as possible.
We were in class, and the professor was droning on about something I wasn't paying much attention to. My mind wandered, thinking about how we were going to pull everything together in just two days. Suddenly, I felt my phone vibrate in my lap. Curious, I glanced down at my screen under the table to see who had texted me. It was Jungkook.
Jungkook: Hey, princess. Got any plans after class?
I rolled my eyes, my lips curling into a small smirk. Of course, he couldn't just ask normally. I typed a quick response.
Y/N: Not unless you're counting trying to save our sorry excuse for a project.
Almost immediately, my phone buzzed again.
Jungkook: Touché. How about we finish it at my place? You, me... Namjoon. Group work, you know?
Y/N: Why at your place?
Jungkook: Because my place is more fun. And I can make you a proper coffee. You know you want to.
Y/N: Fine. But this better be about the project and nothing else.
Jungkook: Can't promise that ;) See you after class.
I shook my head at his winking emoji but couldn't deny the tiny thrill that ran through me. Whether it was the impending deadline or something else, the air between Jungkook and me had been charged with an underlying tension lately. I wasn't sure how to feel about it, but it was becoming harder to brush off.
Once we settled in Jungkook's place, the tension between us was unbearable. It had been building for days, and now, in the quiet of his living room, it felt like we were teetering on the edge of something we couldn't take back.
Jungkook sat next to me on the couch, his casual demeanor masking the intensity in the air. I opened my laptop, pretending to focus on the project, but my mind was far from it. I could feel his eyes on me, and when his hand casually drifted to rest on my thigh again, I froze.
"Have you eaten yet?" he asked, his voice low and smooth, like he wasn't fully paying attention to his own words but to the way my body tensed at his touch.
I forced myself to look at him, raising an eyebrow. "wow. you suddenly care about my wellbeing now?"
He smirked, that familiar cocky grin that always seemed to piss me off. "What? Can't a guy ask a simple question?"
I rolled my eyes and turned my gaze back to the screen. "Yeah, I ate. Did you?"
"Mmhmm," he murmured, not removing his hand, his fingers starting to gently trace little patterns on my thigh. "Just making sure you're not starving before we start working."
I bit my lip, trying to focus, but every nerve in my body was screaming at me to pay attention to his touch. His fingers were moving now, grazing my skin in slow, deliberate strokes, each one lighting a fire in my core.
I couldn't take it anymore. 
The tension, 
his hand, 
his stupid smirk
—it was all too much. I turned to face him, my chest rising and falling with barely concealed frustration. Before I could think about what I was doing, 
I grabbed his face and crashed my lips onto his.
The kiss was messy,
 desperate, fueled by all the frustration and tension that had been boiling over between us for weeks. He responded immediately, his hand tightening on my thigh, pulling me closer as he kissed me back just as fiercely. His other hand tangled in my hair, and for a moment, it felt like nothing else mattered except the way his lips moved against mine.
In between the kiss, he pulled back just a fraction, enough to murmur, "Thought you hated me."
I barely registered his words, my breath coming in short, heavy pants. "I do," I whispered, my voice a mix of defiance and something else. "I think."
Jungkook chuckled softly, the sound vibrating against my lips as he leaned back in, his hand now traveling up my side, slipping under my shirt. His touch was slow, teasing, as if he was testing just how far he could push before I stopped him. But I didn't stop him. I couldn't. The warmth of his palm against my skin sent shivers through my entire body, and I leaned into him, craving more.
His lips were on mine again, but this time, the kiss was deeper, slower, like we were savoring every second of this moment. His hand moved higher, grazing the edge of my bra, and I let out a quiet whimper, the sound muffled against his mouth.
"Still think you hate me?" he teased between kisses, his lips brushing against the corner of my mouth, trailing down to my jaw.
I tried to answer, but my thoughts were a jumbled mess, lost in the haze of his touch and the overwhelming heat building inside me. Instead, all I could manage was a shaky, "Shut up."
Jungkook grinned against my skin, his breath hot against my neck as his hand slipped further under my shirt, his fingers ghosting over my breast. "You know," he murmured, his voice low and full of that damn cockiness, "I'm not even doing anything, and you're already..... horny?."
I swallowed hard, trying to regain some control, but the way his hand felt on me, the way his lips moved against my skin, it was impossible to think straight. I opened my mouth to say something, to tell him to stop...or maybe to tell him not to stop, but before I could, 
I heard the sound of the door opening.
Panic shot through me, and I jerked away from him, pulling my shirt back down and scrambling to sit up straight. Namjoon had just walked in, completely oblivious to the tension that had just filled the room.
Jungkook, on the other hand, didn't even flinch. He stayed where he was, leaning back casually with a smug grin on his face, like he was savoring the fact that he had completely undone me in a matter of minutes. He rubbed his lips with his thumb, his eyes glinting with amusement as he watched me try to pull myself together.
Namjoon, blissfully unaware of what he'd just interrupted, smiled and waved as he set his bag down. "Hey, sorry I'm late."
"Uh, it's fine," I mumbled, still feeling the heat in my cheeks as I avoided Jungkook's gaze. My heart was pounding in my chest, and I couldn't stop thinking about what had just happened—or what almost happened.
Jungkook finally sat up, stretching lazily as he glanced at Namjoon. "We were just getting started," he said, his tone casual, though the smirk on his face told me he was still very much enjoying the moment.
Namjoon nodded, pulling out his laptop. "Cool, let's get to work then."
I shot a glare at Jungkook, who only grinned wider, clearly reveling in the fact that I was still flustered. And as much as I wanted to punch him, I couldn't deny the way my body still buzzed from his touch.
This was going to be a long night.
As the three of us sat around Jungkook's living room table, trying to focus on the project, I couldn't help but feel the lingering tension between us. My mind kept drifting back to the kiss, the way his hands felt on me, and it didn't help that Jungkook kept sending me these playful glances when Namjoon wasn't looking.
We were supposed to be reviewing some notes Namjoon had brought, but my attention was elsewhere. Namjoon was talking animatedly about his ideas, while I pretended to follow along, nodding occasionally. Meanwhile, Jungkook, who sat way too close for comfort on my other side, started to shift, his knee brushing against mine under the table.
I froze for a second, my heart racing, but I didn't move. I didn't pull away. Instead, I shot him a quick look out of the corner of my eye. He glanced back, smirking, and then, without warning, his hand slipped under the table and onto my thigh again.
This time, though, it wasn't innocent.
His fingers began to creep higher, just brushing the hem of my skirt. I tensed up, glancing at Namjoon, who was completely focused on the work in front of him. Jungkook's hand continued its slow, deliberate journey under my skirt, and I couldn't help the way my breath hitched.
I should've stopped him. I should've pushed his hand away, but I didn't. My body reacted on its own, allowing him to continue as my heart pounded in my chest. I swallowed hard, trying to maintain some semblance of normalcy as Namjoon droned on about the project.
Jungkook's fingers slowly rubbed my clothed clit, and I bit my lip, trying to suppress a gasp. I shifted slightly in my seat, hoping Namjoon wouldn't notice. Jungkook, of course, noticed everything. He leaned in just a little closer, whispering softly, "You okay?"
I shot him a glare, though it lacked any real conviction. He chuckled under his breath, clearly enjoying the fact that I was letting him get away with this. His hand traveled higher, pushing my panties to the side enough for him to enter. 
i then let out a slight whimper catching their attention. jungkook smirking as he inserts another finger into me "are you okay y/n?" namjoon asks concerned about me "a-ahh no no..haha i-i stubbed my toe" i tried to reply as i was unable to talk normally. the pleasure was too good. 
now i know why girls love to throw themselves at jungkook
i held onto jungkooks shirt tightening my grip as i felt my orgasm being near. jungkook sensed it as my walls then starts to tighten around his fingers, he then fastened his pace, making my heart race faster. he then looks at me as i struggle, biting my lips trying not to make any sounds but my legs were shaking. 
i finally came. my white liquid coating his fingers as he pulls out making a 'plop' sound. 
i breathed heavily trying to pull myself together as i lick my lips, turning to jungkook watching him as he licks his fingers, cleaning my cum that was on his fingers.
once we were done with our study session Namjoon stood up to leave, an awkward silence settled in the room for a brief second. He gathered his things, explaining something about a school board meeting that he couldn't miss. I nodded along, thankful for the distraction from the tension that had been building between Jungkook and me for the past hour. Jungkook, on the other hand, remained calm, though I could sense the playful energy still simmering beneath the surface.
Namjoon finally said his goodbyes and left, closing the door behind him. The silence between Jungkook and me felt thick, heavy with the weight of everything we weren't saying. I didn't dare look at him at first, knowing that the second I did, we wouldn't be able to hold back any longer.
i then got up from the couch as i got on his lap, ruffling and playing with his hair. i tilt my head keeping eye contact with him giving him a smile as his hands starts travelling it's way to undo my bra until my phone suddenly rang distrupting our moment. 
i got up to get my phone and it's hoseok. 
i answered the call but jungkook took it 
"hey y/n where are you?" hoseok asks concerned as it has already been past 6 pm.
"she's with her boyfriend" jungkook answers making me shook my head in panic as i try to get my phone from him "what the fuck jungkook!" i got up on him trying to get the phone as i heard hoseok mutter "what the fuck is happening" on the phone. "kiss first" jungkook points at his lips hinting me to kiss him. 
and without hesitation i kissed him. i pull away looking at him in the eye as i spoke softly "can i get my phone now?" "say please" he replies making me annoyed. "can i please get my phone now?" i answered him as he slowly gave me the phone giving a cocky grin.
i yanked the phone from him a little bit harsh but i was already annoyed. 
"hey hoseok? i'm sorry that was jungkook" i said  awkwardly
"i was right then?" he asks 
"huh?"
"you like him do youuu??" he teases 
"hell nah what the fuck" i shook my head
jungkook then interrupts and yell on the phone "says the girl who kissed me and wanted to make out with me!" i hit jungkooks shoulder playfully as hoseok on the phone "omygod!! jimin and jin has to know about this bye!!" 
"wait hoseok no-" before i could speak hoseok ends the call.
"what the fuck?" i said to him annoyed 
"sorryyy princess" he gives me a peck on the cheek and points at his hard bulge
"i made you cum and i didn't get to cum" he pouts 
"my precious pussy doesn't deserve a cock that goes in other pussies that we don't even know it clean. maybe stop fucking other girls and i'll let you, hm?" i cup his face as i answered softly 
i then sat down on the couch to relax, closing my eyes, i couldn't stop thinking about what had happened today with jungkook.
After everything that happened, Jungkook broke the silence with a smirk, his usual confidence returning. "Let me take you home," he offered, tilting his head towards the door. "You know, on my bike."
"Sure," I said, keeping my voice steady, though internally I was anything but calm.
As we walked out of his house and towards his bike, I could feel the unspoken tension between us, a silent reminder of the unresolved tension lingering in the air. Jungkook handed me a helmet, his fingers brushing lightly against mine. I couldn't help but notice how his eyes lingered on me for a second longer than necessary before he turned his attention back to the bike.
"You sure you trust me on this thing?" he teased, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips as he adjusted his helmet.
I rolled my eyes, but a small smile crept onto my face despite myself. "Just don't kill me, Jeon," I said, slipping the helmet on.
Jungkook chuckled before straddling the bike. "Wouldn't dream of it," he replied, patting the seat behind him. "Hop on."
I hesitated for a second before sliding onto the seat behind him, wrapping my arms around his waist. The moment my body pressed against his back, I could feel the firm muscles under his shirt, the warmth radiating from him. I mentally cursed myself for feeling flustered by something as simple as a bike ride, but there was no denying the electricity that sparked between us. The memory of his hands on me, his lips, kept flashing in my mind. God, what had happened to me?
As soon as the engine revved to life, the city streets blurred past us, and I tightened my grip on Jungkook. The wind whipped around us, the cool night air contrasting with the warmth of his body. My chest was pressed firmly against him, my heart pounding in my ears, and I couldn't help but bury my face into his back. Being this close to him, especially after everything that had just happened, made it hard to think straight.
The ride home was both exhilarating and maddening. Every second, I was hyper-aware of how close we were, the subtle movements of his body as he steered the bike, the way my arms tightened around him with every turn. I had never ridden on a motorcycle before, and the adrenaline only added to the charged atmosphere. As much as I hated to admit it, part of me didn't want the ride to end.
But all too soon, we pulled up in front of my house. Jungkook parked the bike, cutting the engine, and I reluctantly let go of him, sliding off the seat. My legs were a little unsteady, whether from the ride or the emotions swirling inside me, I wasn't sure. I pulled off the helmet, my fingers brushing through my hair as I handed it back to him.
As soon as Jungkook and I stepped through the front door, my mom, ever the gracious host, immediately beamed at Jungkook, practically pulling him inside with an invitation to stay for tea. I was trying to mentally prepare myself for the inevitable barrage of questions from her, but before I could even process that, I heard the familiar voice of my best friend, Hoseok, from the living room.
"Y/N! Guess what? I found—oh..." Hoseok's words trailed off when he saw Jungkook behind me, his eyes widening in surprise. His playful grin faltered for a second, replaced by curiosity as he glanced between the two of us. "Wait, what's going on here? You're bringing home the infamous Jeon Jungkook?"
I shot Hoseok a warning look, but he only raised his eyebrows, clearly amused. Of course, he would be staying over tonight. Hoseok was practically family at this point—my mom loved him, and he often stayed over when he was in town. I should have known he'd be here, lounging on the couch like he owned the place.
Before I could answer, my mom jumped in, leading Jungkook toward the living room, where she immediately started gushing over him. "Oh, it's so nice to meet one of Y/N's friends from school! She never brings anyone home. Please, make yourself comfortable."
Jungkook chuckled softly, giving my mom his signature charming smile. "Thank you, ma'am. It's nice to meet you too."
I could see my mom's eyes light up at his politeness, and I mentally groaned, knowing she was going to absolutely love him by the end of the night. Great, just what I needed—my mom falling for Jungkook's charm.
While my mom was busy fawning over him, I made my way over to Hoseok, who was sitting on the couch with an overly dramatic grin plastered on his face. The moment I sat down next to him, he leaned in, lowering his voice.
"So... you and Jungkook, huh?" Hoseok's tone was dripping with playful curiosity. "Did I just sense some serious tension there, or am I imagining things?"
I rolled my eyes, trying to act casual, though I could feel my cheeks warming up. "It's nothing. We're just working on a group project together."
Hoseok snorted, clearly unconvinced. "Yeah, sure. A group project. Is that what we're calling it now? What happened, huh? Did you two—" He paused, his eyes widening. "Wait, don't tell me you guys really kissed."
I froze, my heart skipping a beat as I glanced at Hoseok. I didn't need to say anything; the look on my face was enough to confirm his suspicions.
Hoseok gasped dramatically, his voice dropping even lower. "You did kiss! Oh my god, Y/N! I knew there was something going on between you two."
I nudged him with my elbow, whispering harshly, "Will you keep it down? My mom's right there."
Hoseok grinned, completely unbothered by my attempt to hush him. "How was it? Was it good? Was it like... you know, fireworks?"
I shot him a look. "Hoseok, seriously, now is not the time."
But Hoseok, being the relentless best friend he was, wasn't about to drop it. He leaned closer, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "Come on, spill the tea. I've got to know. You can't just drop a bomb like that and expect me to stay quiet."
I sighed, knowing he wasn't going to let this go. "Fine," I muttered under my breath. "We kissed. "
Hoseok's grin widened. "And? How was it? You can't just say it happened and leave me hanging."
I glanced over at Jungkook, who was still talking with my mom, oblivious to the conversation Hoseok and I were having. "It was...something. he uhh you know?" i glanced down at my bottom area hinting him what had happened
Hoseok raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "OMYGOD! So, like... good or bad?"
I gave him a pointed look. "What do you think?"
Hoseok let out a low whistle, shaking his head in disbelief. "Wow. You and Jeon Jungkook. Who would've thought? The bad boy and the good girl. This is like some kind of drama."
I groaned, burying my face in my hands. "Please, don't make this a thing."
"Oh, it's already a thing, Y/N," Hoseok teased, nudging me with his shoulder. "You're in deep now."
I glared at him, though I couldn't help but smile a little. "You're impossible."
Hoseok just laughed, but before he could say anything else, Jungkook walked over, finally free from my mom's grasp. He glanced at me and Hoseok, a curious look in his eyes, but didn't say anything. Instead, he leaned against the wall, arms crossed, his gaze briefly meeting mine before flicking away.
"You guys talking about something interesting?" Jungkook asked, his voice casual, but there was a hint of playfulness there.
Hoseok, of course, jumped on the opportunity. "Oh, nothing much. Just talking about how Y/N never brings anyone home. Guess you must be special, Jungkook."
I shot Hoseok a look, silently telling him to shut up, but he just grinned back at me, enjoying every second of this.
Jungkook smirked, his eyes locking with mine for a moment. "Yeah, I guess I am," he said, his tone teasing.
I rolled my eyes, feeling the heat rise to my face again. "Hobi, don't you have something else to do?"
Hoseok shrugged, standing up from the couch with a stretch. "Nah, I think I've caused enough trouble for one night. I'll leave you two to... whatever it is you're doing."
I watched as he sauntered off, but not before giving me a wink. I let out a breath, mentally preparing myself for the inevitable interrogation that would come from him later. But for now, I turned my attention back to Jungkook, who was still watching me with that same playful glint in his eyes.
"So," Jungkook said, his voice low enough that only I could hear. "You really couldn't stop talking about me, huh?"
I narrowed my eyes at him, crossing my arms defensively. "Don't get cocky, Jeon."
But he just grinned, clearly enjoying the effect he had on me. "Too late."
387 notes · View notes
pandapetals · 5 days ago
Text
Healing
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Something shifts in you after Jean and Scott have their baby making you wonder if you and Logan should have kids.
professor logan howlett x professor fem!reader - established relationship (y'all married), no y/n used, no reader description, your an english professor, logan is a history professor - imagine days of future past logan with the white streaks in his hair, trying for a baby, angst, mentions of miscarriage, mentions of blood, triggering topics, self-loathing, healing
a/n: been sitting on this one for a while. Not going to lie this fucking hurt to write. I cried so much. I have never been through this but i know a few people who have and i can’t even imagine the pain and strength they have.
read on ao3 or find more parts for the series: here
divider credit: @enchanthings
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Jean beamed, her face glowing with a soft pride, as she held her baby boy close. His tiny hands curled around the fabric of her shirt, his chubby face peaceful as he dozed off in her arms. Over the past few months, you’d watched him grow from a fragile newborn, all soft whimpers and sleepy eyes, into a curious, squirming infant. It seemed like only yesterday he was swaddled and still, but now here he was, wide-eyed and alert to the world.
Scott stood beside Jean, his posture softer than usual, his typically intense gaze almost watery as he watched her gently rock their son. He looked at them both like they were the center of his universe. A quiet awe in his expression that made something tighten in your chest.
"He’s so precious," you said quietly, unable to tear your eyes away from the little family in front of you. The warmth between them radiated out, a kind of contentment that was hard to describe but impossible to miss.
Jean glanced up at you with a knowing smile, one that made you feel as though she could read you like an open book. "He is, isn’t he?" she said, her eyes sparkling. Then, almost without thinking, she added, "Makes you wanna have one, I bet?"
The words hung in the air for a second too long, and you felt your breath catch, an awkward chuckle slipping out before you could stop it. "Oh, kids aren’t really my thing," you blurted, your voice a little too quick, a little too high. "I mean, I love kids—who doesn’t—but, me... well..."
You trailed off as both Jean and Scott turned toward you, exchanging a quick, subtle glance. Their expressions were a mix of curiosity and mild confusion, like they hadn’t expected that answer, like maybe they were wondering why someone like you—someone married to Logan, no less—would feel that way.
The truth was, you’d never really discussed it. Not in depth. Sure, it had come up in passing a few times, but it was one of those conversations that lingered at the edges of your relationship, something neither of you had pushed too hard to figure out. Logan, with all his complications and dark past, never really seemed the type to want a family. And you? You weren’t sure if you did, either. It was easier not to think about it, to enjoy the life you had now—the two of you, perfectly in sync, no added weight of expectation.
But something had shifted recently. Maybe it was watching Jean and Scott, the way they orbited around their son like he was their entire world. Or maybe it was something deeper you hadn’t allowed yourself to feel until now.
"Do you want to hold him?" Scott asked, his voice gentle, trying to break the tension he had sensed creeping in.
You shook your head quickly, hands coming up in protest. "No, it’s fine, really—"
Before you could finish the thought, Jean was already moving, carefully transferring her sleeping son into your arms. You froze for a moment, a rush of panic flooding through you as the small, warm weight of the baby settled against your chest.
"There you go," Jean said softly, stepping back with a smile.
For a heartbeat, you felt a strange rush of anxiety—what if he started crying? What if you held him wrong? As the baby squirmed lightly against you, something softened inside. His small face scrunched up for a moment, but he didn’t stir, and before you knew it, the panic eased into something warmer, something you weren’t sure you were ready to name yet.
"You’re a natural," Jean whispered, her smile widening as she watched you gently cradle her son.
You glanced down at the tiny face, his soft breathing rising and falling steadily, and for a moment, everything else seemed to fade away. There was something so... peaceful about it. The weight of him in your arms, the delicate rise and fall of his chest. It was calming in a way you hadn’t expected. Your mind drifted, just for a second, imagining what it would be like to have a child of your own, one that looked up at you with Logan’s piercing eyes, with his stubbornness and strength.
The thought caught you off guard, making your chest tighten. You had always been so certain that kids weren’t part of the plan, or at least, that’s what you told yourself. Now with this small life cradled in your arms, you weren’t so sure.
Logan’s low, familiar voice broke through your thoughts. "There you are," he muttered, stepping into the room. His eyes softened immediately when he saw you holding the baby, though he tried to hide it behind his usual gruff expression. "Didn’t know I was married to a babysitter now."
You smirked, though your heart was racing a little. "Jean practically forced me."
Logan grunted in response, but there was a subtle shift in his expression as he watched you. His eyes lingered on the baby for a moment longer than usual, and you could see something flicker there. He stepped closer, his hand gently resting on your lower back, warm and reassuring.
"Doesn’t look like you mind too much," he said, his voice softer than usual, his eyes meeting yours.
You shrugged, feeling the baby shift slightly in your arms. "It’s... nice," you admitted quietly, surprising even yourself with the truth of it. "Holding him, I mean."
Logan didn’t say anything right away, but you could feel him studying you, the way he always did when he was thinking something over. Finally, he nodded toward the baby, his voice low. "You look good like that."
You blinked, caught off guard. "Like what?"
His eyes dropped to the baby in your arms before meeting yours again. "Holdin’ him," Logan said quietly, his voice rough but filled with something more. "You look... happy."
You smiled, but there was a knot forming in your chest now, a new kind of weight pressing down. You couldn’t shake the image from your mind—Logan, holding a baby of your own, the two of you together as parents. It wasn’t something you had let yourself picture before, but now that it was there, you couldn’t unsee it.
Later that day, as you watched Logan outside, talking to Jubilee with that soft, fatherly look he sometimes wore, it hit you again. The way he was with her, with Rogue or the younger kids at the mansion—it was so natural, so instinctive. He had this way of guiding them, protecting them, even if he’d never admit it out loud.
You started to wonder if maybe Logan would make an incredible father. As much as you tried to deny it, the thought made your heart ache.
When Logan caught you watching him, he smirked as his eyebrow raised in curiosity. "What’re you lookin’ at?"
You shook your head, smiling softly. "Just you."
Logan came closer, wrapping his arm around your waist, his usual smirk softening. "Yeah?" he murmured. "What’s that look for?"
You hesitated, biting your lip. "Just... thinking."
"‘Bout what?"
You glanced up at him, your eyes searching his, and for the first time in a while, you didn’t brush the thought aside. "Logan," you started softly, your voice unsure but steady, "have you ever thought about... having kids?"
Logan’s eyes widened slightly, caught off guard by the question. He was quiet for a moment, his brow furrowing as he considered your words. Then, after what felt like forever, he sighed softly, pulling you a little closer. "I dunno," he admitted quietly, his voice rough. "Never thought I’d be good at it. But... maybe." His gaze met yours, something unspoken lingering between you. "What about you?"
You swallowed, your heart pounding. "I think... maybe I’m starting to."
Logan didn’t say anything, but his hand slipped into yours, his calloused fingers curling around yours. He gave your hand a gentle squeeze, his silence saying more than words could at that moment.
𓂃
In the days that followed, you couldn’t shake the thought from your mind. It was as if a switch had flipped inside you, and now you were noticing every little thing Logan did—the way he spoke softly to one of his students who was struggling, the way he offered a stern but patient lecture to one of the kids running down the hallway, his voice rough with that familiar gruffness but still carrying a warmth that hinted at something deeper. Every time, your heart tightened, as though it was trying to tell you something you hadn’t quite figured out yet.
The idea of having kids had never seemed urgent. It was like a vague notion floating somewhere in the distance, something other people did after getting married. For you and Logan, it hadn’t felt like a natural progression. You liked your life the way it was—just the two of you, wrapped up in each other. Lazy evenings spent tangled up on the couch, quiet mornings with coffee and teasing banter, spontaneous trips to the city where you wandered hand-in-hand without any real plan.
Now, with every small act of kindness, you saw Logan show, you couldn’t help but imagine him as a father…and it scared you.
The thought of having a child felt like a seismic shift—one that would change the landscape of everything you loved. It wasn’t just about the sleepless nights or the endless responsibilities. It was deeper than that. You worried that the closeness you shared with Logan, the way your lives intertwined so effortlessly, would somehow slip away. That all the little moments you cherished would be replaced by the constant demands of a tiny person who needed everything from you, leaving little room for the quiet intimacy you had now.
Most of all, you worried that your love for each other would get... lost. That Logan, with all his quiet strength and unspoken fears, would pull away when faced with the weight of fatherhood.
It was late one evening, the two of you curled up in bed, the room dimly lit by the soft glow of the lamp on the nightstand. Logan was lying on his back, one arm behind his head, the other draped over you, his fingers absentmindedly tracing circles on your shoulder. You were nestled against his side, listening to the steady rhythm of his breathing, but your thoughts were racing.
You hesitated before speaking, your voice barely above a whisper. "Logan," you began, your tone uncertain. "Can I ask you something?"
He tilted his head slightly, looking down at you with those piercing hazel eyes, his expression softening as he nodded. "Always," he said quietly.
You swallowed, trying to find the right words. "Do you ever... do you ever feel like we might lose what we have if things change?"
Logan’s brow furrowed slightly, a hint of concern in his eyes. "What do you mean, darlin'?" His voice was low like he was afraid to push too hard.
You took a deep breath, your fingers absently tracing the outline of his chest. "I mean, if we had a kid," you whispered, the words feeling strange on your tongue. "If we became parents… I’m worried that we’d lose... us. The way things are now."
Logan was silent for a moment, his hand stilling on your shoulder as he considered your words. "You think a kid would take that away?" he asked, his voice gruff but gentle.
"I don’t know," you admitted, your voice trembling slightly. "I just—everything would be different. We wouldn’t have these quiet nights or our spontaneous trips. We’d have to give up a lot." You paused, feeling the weight of your confession settle between you. "I’m scared that I won’t have as much time for you. Or that… you’d pull away."
Logan’s gaze softened, a deep sigh escaping him as he pulled you closer, his arm tightening around your shoulders. "I get it," he murmured. "I’m not gonna lie, I’ve thought about that too." He hesitated, his eyes drifting to the ceiling for a moment before returning to yours. "Hell, I’m scared of a lot of things when it comes to havin’ a kid. What if I’m no good at it? What if I… pass on the worst parts of me? All the anger, the darkness?"
You reached up, your hand cupping his jaw as you turned his face toward you. "You wouldn’t," you said firmly, meeting his gaze with unwavering certainty. "You’re more than that, Logan. So much more."
He looked at you, his expression raw. "I try to be," he whispered, his voice rough with emotion. "But there’s a lotta things I can’t control. And I don’t know if I’d be any good at raisin’ a kid. I’ve spent most of my life tryin’ to protect people by keepin’ ‘em at arm’s length. How do I protect someone I can’t keep away from everything bad in the world?"
His words sank into you, and you could see the fear in his eyes, the way his past haunted him in a way that was hard to put into words. It wasn’t just about fatherhood—it was about feeling worthy of it. Of deserving that kind of joy.
"You protect me," you whispered, your thumb gently stroking his cheek. "Every day. And you do it without keeping me at a distance. You let me in, Logan. That’s not easy, but you did it. You do it. And if you can do that, then I think you’d make a great father."
Logan’s eyes searched yours, his breath hitching slightly as your words settled in. He leaned in, pressing a kiss to your forehead, his lips lingering there like he was drawing strength from the contact. "I’m not sure I deserve you sayin’ that," he murmured against your skin. "But it means more than you know."
You pulled back just enough to meet his gaze, your hand slipping down to rest over his heart, feeling its steady rhythm beneath your touch. "I’m scared too," you confessed. "I’m scared of everything changing, and of not being able to handle it. But I’m also scared of… what if we don’t even try? What if we let fear decide for us?"
Logan’s expression softened, his thumb brushing gently over your knuckles as he held your hand. "If we do this," he said, his voice low and steady, "we do it together. No matter what. It won’t always be easy, but…" He hesitated, his voice breaking just slightly. "I’d rather face that with you than spend the rest of my life wonderin' if we shoulda tried."
You felt a warmth spread through your chest at his words, and suddenly, the idea didn’t seem as overwhelming as it had before. It was still scary, yes, but knowing that Logan was just as unsure, just as scared, made it feel more... real.
You pressed a kiss to his lips, letting it linger, your fingers curling into his hair as you drew him closer. "So… we're gonna try for a baby?" you whispered, the words slipping out softly.
Logan’s arms tightened around you like he was anchoring himself to the moment. He pulled back just enough to meet your gaze, his eyes searching yours with a mix of uncertainty and quiet determination. There was a heartbeat of silence before he nodded. "Yeah," he murmured, the sound almost lost in the space between you. Then, with more conviction, he added, "Yeah, why the hell not." His lips curved into a small, genuine smile.
𓂃
Trying for a baby had started out exciting—a new chapter to explore with Logan. You’d always had an active and passionate sex life, and the thought of intentionally building a family together made your heart swell. 
It wasn’t the act of trying that was hard—it was the waiting, the endless cycle of hope and disappointment. You had been so sure, so confident at the start. But now, after months of trying and nothing to show for it, doubt had begun to creep in like a shadow you couldn’t shake.
Standing by the window in the quiet library, you stared out at the sprawling gardens, but your gaze was unfocused. Your mind was too busy unraveling itself. Why hadn’t it happened yet? Was it you? Was something wrong with you?
Your thoughts drifted back to the last four years of marriage with Logan. You couldn’t help but wonder why you hadn’t gotten pregnant sooner, even by accident. Not once had there been a scare, not even a close call. The questions swirled in your mind, each one more suffocating than the last. Was it my body? Did I do something wrong? Am I broken?
“Hey.” Logan’s familiar voice broke through the haze. You hadn’t even heard him enter the room.
You felt the warmth of his arm as he wrapped it around your shoulders, his touch gentle, steady. “What’s wrong, darlin’?” he asked, his voice low and filled with concern.
You stiffened slightly, shrugging his arm off and taking a small step away. “I don’t want to talk about it, okay?” you whispered, your gaze still fixed on the window.
Logan hesitated. He wasn’t the type to push when you didn’t want to talk, but this—this distance, the way you’d been pulling away lately—was starting to worry him. He could see the weight you were carrying, the exhaustion etched into your face, even though you tried to hide it behind small smiles and quick deflections.
“Sweetheart,” he said softly, his voice almost a plea, “you don’t have to talk to me if you’re not ready. But… you gotta talk to someone. You can’t carry this by yourself.”
His words broke something loose in you, and you bit your lip hard to keep it from trembling. A tear slipped down your cheek before you could stop it. “I just don’t understand,” you finally said, your voice cracking. “I thought I’d be pregnant by now. I thought it’d be easy… but it’s not, and I can’t stop feeling like—”
“Like what?” Logan pressed gently, stepping closer but keeping his distance enough to not crowd you.
“Like a failure,” you admitted, your voice barely above a whisper. The words felt heavy leaving your mouth, as if speaking them made them more real.
Logan’s expression softened instantly, his brow furrowing with a mix of concern and heartache. “Darlin’,” he said quietly, closing the gap between you and gently cupping your face in his hands. He tilted your chin up so you had no choice but to meet his gaze.
“You listen to me,” he said, his voice steady but filled with emotion. “You’re not a failure. Not even close. Don’t you dare think that.”
“But, Logan,” you choked out, your tears now spilling freely. “What if it’s me? What if there’s something wrong with me? You deserve someone who—”
“Stop,” he interrupted firmly. His thumbs brushed the tears from your cheeks, his hazel eyes locking onto yours with an intensity that made your breath hitch. “Don’t do that to yourself. Don’t put all this blame on you. We don’t know why it hasn’t happened yet, but it sure as hell isn’t because you’re not enough. You’re everything to me.”
Your knees felt weak at the raw sincerity in his voice, and you leaned into his touch, letting his warmth hold you together. “I just… I don’t know how to stop feeling like this,” you admitted, your voice trembling.
Logan pulled you into his chest, his strong arms wrapping around you in a way that made you feel shielded from the weight of the world. “We’ll figure it out,” he murmured into your hair. “Together. However long it takes, whatever we have to do—we’ll figure it out. But I need you to promise me somethin’, okay?”
“What?” you asked, your voice muffled against his chest.
“Promise me you’ll stop beatin’ yourself up over this. You’re not weak, darlin’. You’re the strongest person I’ve ever known. And if this doesn’t happen the way we planned, it doesn’t change a damn thing about how much I love you.”
His words wrapped around your heart like a warm blanket, soothing the ache that had been gnawing at you for weeks. You tilted your head back to look at him, your hands resting on his chest. “You always know what to say,” you whispered, a faint, watery smile tugging at your lips.
He gave you a small, lopsided grin, his fingers brushing a strand of hair from your face. “Guess I’ve got a good reason to.”
You took a deep breath, feeling a flicker of hope reignite in your chest. “You know, sometimes I wonder if this is harder on you than you let on,” you said softly.
Logan hesitated, his gaze dropping for a moment before he looked back at you. “It’s hard,” he admitted. “But not because of me. It’s hard seein’ you like this. You’ve always been the one who makes things feel right, and I hate seein’ you doubt yourself.”
Your heart swelled at his honesty, and you leaned up to press a soft kiss to his knuckles. “I love you so much, Logan. No matter what happens, I’m just glad I have you by my side.”
His hazel eyes softened, and he pulled you closer, resting his forehead against yours. “I love you more, darlin’. We’re in this together, okay?”
You nodded, letting the warmth of his embrace settle over you like a safety net. The quiet hum of the library wrapped around you both, cocooning the moment in a kind of stillness you hadn’t felt in weeks.
𓂃
It was a few weeks later, and life had settled back into its usual rhythm—teaching classes, grading papers, and the occasional chaos that came with living in a mansion full of mutants. But something was… different. At first, you didn’t think much of it. Everyone felt off sometimes, right?
The fatigue came first. You yawned at least five times during one of your lectures, earning amused glances from your students. “Long night, Professor?” one of them teased, and you waved it off with a laugh, though you were secretly confused. You’d gone to bed early the night before, and yet you still felt like you could curl up under your desk and sleep for hours.
Then, there was lunch. Your usual favorite—whatever Logan had grilled up the night before—suddenly turned your stomach. The smell alone had you rushing out of the dining hall, your hand clamped over your mouth as you tried to breathe through the nausea. Jean had given you a concerned look, but you waved her off, blaming it on some "bad leftovers."
By the third day of these strange symptoms, you couldn’t ignore them anymore. Your mind began to piece things together— the fatigue, the nausea, the way your favorite coffee suddenly tasted too bitter to drink. A flicker of hope sparked in your chest, but you tried to push it down. Don’t get ahead of yourself, you told yourself. It could be anything.
Still, the thought wouldn’t leave you alone. That night, after Logan had gone to bed, you slipped out of your shared room and quietly headed to the mansion’s lab. You grabbed a pregnancy test, your hands trembling slightly as you tucked it under your arm and snuck back to the bathroom.
What if it’s negative again? What if this hope I’ve been holding onto is just… nothing?
But then, something shifted. A small voice in the back of your mind reminded you of Logan’s words. We’re in this together.
Finally, you took a deep breath and glanced down at the test. Your heart stopped.
Two lines.
Tears welled in your eyes, your hand flying to your mouth as a soft, disbelieving laugh escaped you. Positive. You were pregnant.
For a moment, you just stood there, staring at the test as joy bloomed in your chest, spreading through you like sunlight breaking through clouds. The months of waiting, of disappointment, of wondering if it would ever happen—all of it melted away in that instant.
You couldn’t wait to tell Logan. He deserved to know right away. But you wanted it to be special, something he’d never forget.
The next morning, you woke up earlier than usual, your excitement too much to keep contained. While Logan was still asleep, you snuck into the kitchen, rummaging through the cabinets for supplies. If there was one thing Logan loved as much as you, it was breakfast—specifically pancakes.
You whipped up a batch, taking extra care to shape them into letters. The smell of warm batter filled the air, and you couldn’t help but smile as you arranged the pancakes on a large plate, spelling out: You’re going to be a dad.
By the time Logan wandered into the kitchen, his hair sticking up in every direction and his usual gruff morning expression on full display, you were practically bouncing on your toes.
“Mornin’, sweetheart,” he grumbled, rubbing the back of his neck as he headed for the coffee maker.
“Morning,” you chirped, barely containing your excitement.
He turned, narrowing his eyes at you playfully. “What’s got you so chipper this early?”
You gestured to the table, where the plate of pancakes sat waiting. “I made you breakfast.”
Logan raised an eyebrow, clearly suspicious as he stepped closer. But the moment his eyes landed on the pancakes, his entire body stilled.
His gaze moved slowly over the words, his expression unreadable at first. Then, his eyes shot up to meet yours, wide and filled with a mixture of disbelief and hope. “Darlin’… are you serious?”
You nodded, tears brimming in your eyes as you whispered, “Logan, we’re going to have a baby.”
For a moment, he didn’t say anything. Then, he let out a shaky breath, a hand running through his hair as he took a step toward you. “You mean it? You’re… we’re…”
You smiled, nodding again as tears slipped down your cheeks. “Yes. It’s real.”
Logan’s arms were around you in an instant, pulling you tightly against his chest. You felt his body tremble slightly as he held you, his face buried in your neck. “I don’t even know what to say,” he murmured, his voice rough with emotion.
“You don’t have to say anything,” you whispered, your fingers tangling in his hair. “Just… be here with me. That’s all I need.”
He pulled back just enough to look at you, his hazel eyes shining with a rare vulnerability. “I never thought I’d get to have this,” he said softly. “A family. You’ve given me more than I ever thought I deserved.”
You cupped his face, your thumbs brushing away the tears that had slipped from his eyes. “You deserve everything, Logan. And I can’t wait to do this with you.”
A soft, genuine smile curved his lips as he leaned down, capturing yours in a kiss. His hand cradled your cheek, his touch warm. When he finally pulled back, he rested his forehead lightly against yours. 
Logan’s gaze flickered downward, his expression softening even more as his roughened hand moved to rest on your stomach. His palm was warm against you, and for a moment, he seemed almost in awe, his thumb brushing gently over the fabric of your shirt.
A chuckle rumbled through him, deep and affectionate. “Things are about to get a whole lot more interesting,” he murmured, his voice carrying both wonder and a touch of that familiar, teasing tone.
Your lips curved into a smile as you rested your hand over his, fingers threading together as your eyes followed his gaze to where your hands now lay. “Yeah,” you whispered, the word carrying a quiet awe of your own. “They really are.”
The world outside the kitchen faded away as you both stood there, the enormity of what was to come settling in. Logan’s thumb idly traced circles over the back of your hand, his expression a mix of pride, love, and something almost boyish—like he couldn’t quite believe this was real.
“You know,” he said softly, his eyes lifting to meet yours, hazel and filled with an emotion so raw it made your breath catch, “I’m not sure how we’re gonna do this, but… I can’t wait to figure it out with you.”
Your chest tightened, tears prickling at the corners of your eyes, but you held his gaze, your hand squeezing his. “We’ll figure it out,” you whispered, your voice trembling slightly but full of certainty. “Together. Like we always do.”
Unable to resist, you leaned into him, resting your head against his chest, your arms slipping around his waist. He held you close, his hand still protectively resting on your stomach as the other wrapped firmly around your back.
“You’re gonna be a great dad,” you murmured into his chest.
Logan let out a low, soft laugh, his chin brushing the top of your head as he pressed a kiss there. “I’ll try, sweetheart,” he said quietly, his voice heavy with emotion. “But with you beside me… I think I might just figure it out.”
You tilted your head up to meet his eyes again, a tear slipping free but your smile unwavering. “You already have,” you said softly, your fingers gently brushing along his jaw.
𓂃
Everything was going great—or, well, as great as could be expected when you were juggling teaching, mutant chaos, and the excitement of being newly pregnant. You’d gone to the doctor for a check-up, double-checking everything was on track, and Logan had been, well… different.
Attentive wasn’t even the right word for it. Logan had turned into an overprotective force of nature. He refused to let you lift anything heavier than a book, shot you a look of warning anytime you so much as bent down, and always seemed to be hovering nearby like he thought the baby might need saving from a falling bookshelf or something.
Not that you minded. In fact, you found it… sweet. Especially when his rough hands would slide under your shirt at the end of the day, his palms brushing over your barely-there bump as if he could somehow connect with the life growing inside you. The way he looked at you—at both of you—made your heart feel like it might burst.
But of course, Logan's changed behavior didn’t go unnoticed.
You and Logan stood outside on the mansion’s back patio, enjoying a rare moment of peace. The fresh air wrapped around you like a soft blanket, and you leaned back into his chest as his hands gently rested on your stomach, his thumbs absentmindedly brushing little circles there.
“I like that it’s just between us,” Logan murmured into your ear, his lips grazing the shell of it as his arms tightened around you.
You hummed in agreement, resting your hands over his. “Me too, but… we can’t hide it forever, you know.”
Logan chuckled low and warm, the sound sending a pleasant shiver down your spine. “Pretty sure Chuck already knows,” he muttered, the corner of his mouth quirking into a smirk. “And Jean. She’s probably just sittin’ on it, waitin’ for you to spill.”
You tilted your head back to glance at him, a knowing grin on your face. “Oh, she’s definitely sitting on it. Jean loves a good secret almost as much as she loves saying, ‘I told you so.’”
He grunted in agreement, lowering his head to press a soft kiss to the side of your neck. “If you wanna tell everyone, darlin’, just say the word. I’ll follow your lead.”
You sighed, closing your eyes as his lips trailed down your neck in a way that made you forget about anything other than the warmth of his embrace. “Should we do something special? Oh! What if—”
“Is there any place you two won’t get freaky in?”
The voice startled you both, and Logan quickly yanked your shirt back down as you peeked over his shoulder to see Scott and Ororo walking toward you. Ororo had a toolbox in hand, presumably for the greenhouse, and Scott, as usual, was looking far too amused for his own good.
You burst into laughter, unable to help yourself. “We were just—”
“Just about two seconds from Logan ripping your clothes off,” Scott interrupted with a smirk.
Logan shot him a glare, his arms still loosely wrapped around you. “I was not,” he growled, though the faintest hint of pink dusted his cheeks.
You grinned, turning in Logan’s hold to face them. “We were enjoying the fresh air, Summers. You should try it sometime. Might do wonders for your sunny personality.”
Scott rolled his eyes, but his expression grew suspicious as he glanced between you and Logan. “Something’s… different.”
“Yeah,” Ororo chimed in, narrowing her eyes at Logan. “He’s not acting like himself. He didn’t even make a sarcastic remark about Scott interrupting his make-out session.”
Logan groaned, pinching the bridge of his nose as if to will away their nonsense. “I’m right here, you know.”
Ororo gasped dramatically, clutching her chest. “No witty remark again? What in the world is happening? Is Logan… soft now?”
Scott snorted, crossing his arms. “What’s next? Is Logan volunteering to help with art class? Baking cookies for the kids?”
You bit back a laugh, looking up at Logan with mock seriousness. “You have been oddly chipper lately. You’re not sneakin’ cookies out of the kitchen again, are you?”
Logan shot you a look, though the faintest twitch of a smirk betrayed him. “Real funny, sweetheart.”
“Actually,” Ororo interjected, her eyes narrowing in playful suspicion, “maybe it’s not the cookies. Maybe you’re the reason Logan’s gone all soft and smiley.”
Scott’s eyebrows shot up, his lips curving into a sly grin. “Ohhhh, I think ‘Ro’s onto something. Spill it, you two. What are you hiding?”
Logan sighed, running a hand down his face as he grumbled, “Can’t a guy just be happy without you nosy lot diggin’ into it?”
Ororo and Scott exchanged knowing looks, but before they could press further, you took pity on Logan and looped your arms around his waist. “Honestly, I think Logan’s just been spending too much time with you two,” you teased. “It’s rubbing off on him. Maybe we should keep our distance, huh?”
Scott chuckled, shaking his head. “Yeah, right. Whatever’s going on, I’ll figure it out eventually.”
“Don’t hold your breath,” Logan muttered, shooting Scott a glare as he led you back toward the mansion.
Once you were out of earshot, you rose up on your toes, your voice dropping to a playful whisper. “Well, that went… better than expected. Look at you, handling things so maturely.”
Logan glanced down at you, his signature smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. “Don’t get ahead of yourself, sweetheart,” he drawled, his tone low and teasing. “I’ve still got plenty of gruff left in me.”
“Oh, I know,” you quipped, giving his hand a gentle squeeze as you leaned into him. “But maybe you should save a little of that charm to keep them from growing even more suspicious. You’re practically glowing, Logan.”
He huffed a soft laugh, the sound rumbling in his chest as his fingers brushed absentmindedly over your stomach. “So, let me get this straight—you’re tellin’ me to be grumpy? Never thought I’d hear you say that.”
You grinned, nudging him with your elbow. “Hey, mister, I love you and all your grumpiness. You can’t just go soft on me because we’re having a baby.”
His lips twitched, but he wasn’t listening anymore. His gaze had shifted, fixating on your stomach with a quiet intensity, like the world had narrowed down to just the two of you—and the life you were carrying. His fingers stilled, brushing softly over the fabric of your shirt as if he could feel the baby beneath it.
“Logan,” you said, trying to stifle a smile as you reached up to cup his jaw. You tilted his face back up toward yours, catching his hazel eyes. “Eyes up here, tough guy.”
He blinked, snapping out of his daze, though his lips curved into a sheepish smirk. “Can’t help it,” he muttered, his voice softer now. “Kinda hard to believe, ya know? That it’s… really happening.”
Your heart squeezed, and you ran your thumb gently along the scruff of his jaw. “It’s happening,” you murmured, your voice tender. “And you’re already doing so much. You’re gonna be the best dad, Logan. I know it.”
His hand slipped up from your stomach to rest against your hip, grounding himself in your touch. “Dunno about the best,” he said, his voice low and raw, “but I’m sure as hell gonna try. For you. For them.”
Tears prickled at the corners of your eyes, but you refused to let them fall. Instead, you leaned up, brushing your lips softly against his. “You’ve got nothing to prove, you know,” you whispered against his mouth. “You’re already everything we need.”
Logan didn’t say anything for a moment, just let his forehead rest against yours as he closed his eyes. His hand found its way back to your stomach, resting there protectively. “You make this gruff old guy believe in things he never thought he’d have,” he finally murmured, his voice rough with emotion.
“Good,” you replied with a small smile, threading your fingers through his. “Because we’re not going anywhere, Logan. You’ve got us—gruffness and all.”
He chuckled, pressing a kiss to your temple before wrapping his arm around you and guiding you back toward the mansion. “Guess I better start practicing my grumpy dad voice, huh?”
“Oh, absolutely,” you teased, leaning into him as the warmth of his presence surrounded you. “You’ve got a reputation to maintain, after all.”
𓂃
A few days later, you stood in front of your class, pacing slowly as you explained the finer points of literary symbolism. Your voice was steady, your gestures fluid, but the dull ache in your lower back that had been nagging you all morning suddenly sharpened, sending a jolt of pain through your abdomen.
You froze mid-sentence, your breath hitching, one hand instinctively moving to your stomach.
“Mrs. Howlett?” a girl in the front row asked hesitantly, her wide eyes filled with concern. “Are you okay?”
You forced a smile, straightening up despite the discomfort clawing its way through you. “I’m fine,” you replied, your voice gentle but strained. “Just… give me a moment.”
The room felt too warm, the air heavy, and the students’ curious gazes only amplified your unease. You gripped the edge of your desk to steady yourself, taking a slow breath.
“Claire,” you said, turning to the girl who had spoken up, your tone soft but firm. “Can you keep an eye on the class for a few minutes? I’ll be right back.”
She nodded quickly, her concern etched into her features, and you grabbed your bag, clutching it tightly as you made your way to the door.
The hallway felt endless as you walked, the sharp pain twisting in your abdomen with every step. You tried to focus on your breathing, on the soft click of your shoes against the tiled floor, but panic was starting to creep into your mind.
By the time you reached the bathroom, your hands were trembling. You pushed the door open, the fluorescent lights casting a harsh glow as you stumbled toward the sink. The pain was intensifying, and a sense of dread settled heavily in your chest.
The sound of the bathroom door shutting behind you echoed in the silence, but you barely heard it over the pounding in your ears. Something was wrong—very wrong. Your hands trembled as you stumbled into a stall, the sharp pain in your abdomen making it hard to catch your breath.
You fumbled with the clasp of your bag, searching desperately for aspirin, though deep down, you knew no pill was going to fix this. Then you felt it—a warm, wet sensation and your heart plummeted.
“No, no, no…” you whispered, your voice cracking as you yanked open the bathroom stall door and hurried to the sink.
With shaky hands, you splashed cold water on your face, trying to calm your racing thoughts. But when you glanced down and saw the crimson staining your pants, the world seemed to tilt on its axis.
Panic clawed at your chest, your breath coming in short, shallow gasps. “Please, no… please…” Tears blurred your vision as you stumbled back, your legs giving out beneath you. You crumpled to the bathroom floor, clutching your stomach as sobs wracked your body.
This couldn’t be happening. It couldn’t be.
In the hallway, Logan was walking back to his classroom after helping a student with a project. He’d been in a surprisingly light mood—until he heard it. The sound of your sobbing carried faintly down the corridor, and his entire body tensed.
He broke into a sprint, following the sound to the bathroom door.
“Darlin’, you in there?” His voice was urgent. The sound of his voice only made you cry harder. You couldn’t bring yourself to respond, couldn’t find the strength to tell him what was happening.
Logan didn’t wait for an answer. He pushed open the bathroom door, and the sight before him made his heart stop.
You were curled up on the floor, your arms wrapped tightly around your stomach as you sobbed uncontrollably. The crimson streaks on the tiles told him everything he needed to know.
“Sweetheart,” he breathed, his voice breaking as he rushed to your side. He dropped to his knees beside you, his hands hovering over you like he wasn’t sure where to touch without hurting you further.
You looked up at him, your tear-streaked face filled with anguish. “Logan… I think—I think we lost—”
Your words dissolved into a fresh wave of sobs, and Logan’s chest ached with the weight of your pain. He wrapped his arms around you, pulling you tightly against his chest, holding you as if he could shield you from the cruel reality of what was happening.
“I’m here,” he whispered, his voice thick with emotion as he pressed a kiss to the top of your head. “I’m here, darlin’. I’ve got you.”
You clung to him, your fists gripping his shirt like it was the only thing keeping you from completely falling apart. Logan’s hand found its way to your hair, stroking it gently as he rocked you back and forth.
“It’s not your fault,” he murmured, his voice trembling. “Do you hear me? It’s not your fault. Don’t you dare blame yourself for this.”
“I… I wanted this so badly,” you choked out between sobs, your face buried in his chest. “I wanted this for us, Logan. And now it’s… it’s gone.”
Logan’s jaw clenched, his eyes burning with unshed tears. He hated how powerless he felt—how he couldn’t fix this for you, couldn’t take away your pain.
He gently scooped you up into his arms, cradling you like you were the most precious thing in the world. “C’mon, sweetheart,” he murmured, his voice barely audible. “Let’s get you outta here.”
You buried your face against his neck, your tears soaking into his shirt as he carried you down the hallway. Logan’s usual gruffness was gone, replaced by a quiet, tender resolve to be whatever you needed him to be at this moment.
When he reached your shared room, he gently laid you down on the bed, pulling the blanket over you. He sat down beside you, his hand never leaving yours, his thumb tracing soothing circles over your knuckles.
Your words were barely a whisper, fragile and heavy. “I’d gotten used to the idea of us… us being parents.” The tremble in your voice made Logan’s chest tighten, and he couldn’t stop the pained expression that flickered across his face.
He leaned closer, resting his forehead against yours, his hands cradling your face. “I know, sweetheart,” he murmured, his voice low and raw. “We… we just have to find a way to keep going.”
You gave a small, broken nod, tears slipping down your cheeks as your fingers reached out, trembling slightly, to cup his cheek. “I just… I wish I could fix this, Logan. I wish I could do something to make it better.”
Logan’s jaw clenched as he swallowed hard, his thumb brushing over your cheek, wiping away a tear. “There’s nothin’ to fix, darlin’,” he said quietly, though his own voice cracked at the end. “This ain’t on you. It never was.”
But you shook your head, your voice breaking into a sob. “It feels like it is. What if—what if my body just… can’t? What if this is because of me?”
The words spilled out, laden with guilt you couldn’t seem to shake. Logan’s breath hitched, and for a moment, he couldn’t speak. He hated seeing you like this—so vulnerable, so broken, carrying the weight of something that wasn’t yours to carry.
“Stop,” he said firmly, though his tone was still soft, his hand gently tilting your chin up so you’d look at him. His hazel eyes, glassy with his unshed tears, locked onto yours. “Don’t you dare blame yourself for this.”
You shook your head again, unable to stop the wave of tears that came. “But what if it’s me, Logan? What if I can’t—”
“Enough,” he cut in, his voice barely above a whisper, but the rawness of it stopped you in your tracks. “It’s not your fault. You hear me? This… this is just somethin’ that happened. And it hurts like hell, but it doesn’t mean you failed.”
His words cracked something inside of you, and you turned away, burying your face into the pillow as another sob wracked your body. Logan didn’t pull away. He stayed close, his hand rubbing slow, steady circles on your back, his presence grounding you even as your world felt like it was crumbling.
After a moment, Logan’s voice broke the heavy silence, softer now, as if he was speaking to himself as much as to you. “Darlin’, we’re not givin’ up. We’ve faced worse. We’ll get through this, too. But you gotta stop thinkin’ this is somethin’ you did.”
Your muffled voice came from the pillow, shaky and raw. “But I wanted it so badly, Logan. I already—I already pictured everything. The nursery, the little shoes… us holding—now it’s been ripped away from us.”
Logan’s chest ached at your words, and he let out a shaky breath, leaning down to press a kiss to your temple. “I know,” he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. “I wanted it too. I already saw you as a mom, sweetheart. I still do. I always will.”
You turned your head slightly, your tear-streaked face meeting his gaze. His honesty—his vulnerability—broke through the wall of guilt you’d been building. “You still…?”
“Always,” he said firmly, his thumb brushing away another tear. “I’m not gonna let this define us. We’re more than this pain. And I know it feels impossible right now, but we’ll figure it out. We always do.”
A shaky sob escaped you as you reached for him, wrapping your arms around his neck. Logan pulled you close, holding you tightly against him, his hand tangling in your hair as he pressed a lingering kiss to your forehead.
“You’re not alone in this,” he murmured, his voice a quiet promise. “We’re in this together, no matter what. You and me.”
You allowed yourself to lean fully into him, your tears soaking into his shirt as he held you. His arms were strong and steady, and the way he cradled you made you feel, just for a moment, like maybe things could be okay again.
“I love you,” you whispered into his chest, the words muffled but heavy with meaning.
“I love you too, sweetheart,” he replied, his voice rough with emotion as he rested his chin on top of your head. “More than anything. Don’t forget that.”
𓂃
Life was supposed to keep moving, but for you and Logan, it felt like time had stopped. The days blurred into weeks, and while the mansion hummed with the usual chaos of students and X-Men missions, you both drifted through it like ghosts.
The weight of the miscarriage hung heavy between you, unspoken but ever-present. You couldn’t bear to talk about it, not yet. Not to anyone except Logan, and even then, words often failed. Nights were the only solace, the quiet hours where he held you tightly in his arms as you sobbed until exhaustion finally overtook you. In those moments, he didn’t say much—what was there to say even as his own grief simmered just beneath the surface.
Logan hated feeling helpless, but this was something he couldn’t fight, couldn’t fix. He saw the pain in your eyes every time you avoided his gaze, the way you masked your tears with a smile that never quite reached your face. And it scared him. His mind spiraled into dark places late at night when he couldn’t sleep. What if this broke you? What if it broke your marriage? What if you left him because he couldn’t give you what you wanted?
The others started to notice. It wasn’t just that you both were quieter than usual—it was the way Logan didn’t bite back as much during arguments or how your laughter, which used to light up any room, had grown rare.
“You two seem pretty... off lately,” Scott had commented to Logan one morning in the kitchen.
Logan barely glanced at him, too tired to muster a sarcastic reply. “We’re fine,” he muttered, his tone gruff but unconvincing.
Scott frowned, crossing his arms. “Fine? You’ve barely said three words to anyone all week, and she’s not much better. Is something going on?”
Logan clenched his jaw, his hand tightening around the coffee mug he was holding. “Drop it, Summers,” he growled before walking out, heading upstairs to check on you.
But Scott didn’t drop it.
It was a Friday night, and the team had gathered in the living room for what was supposed to be a relaxing evening. Someone had put on a movie, but the dialogue barely registered as you sat curled up on the couch next to Logan. His arm was draped around your shoulders, protective as always, but you could feel the tension in his body. You weren’t much better, fidgeting with the edge of the blanket you had pulled over your lap.
“Alright,” Scott said, breaking the lull in conversation. “I can’t be the only one who’s noticed something’s off with these two.”
You froze, your fingers tightening on the blanket as all eyes turned toward you and Logan.
“Scott,” Jean warned, her tone cautious.
“What?” Scott pressed, looking around the room for support. “They’ve been acting strange for weeks now. Don’t tell me none of you have noticed.”
You forced a smile, trying to deflect. “We’re fine, Scott. Just busy, that’s all.”
Scott wasn’t convinced. “Busy? Come on. You guys are like the most annoying, lovey-dovey couple in this place. Now you’re quiet and avoiding everyone? Something’s up.”
“Scott, maybe—” Ororo started, but Scott cut her off.
“No, I’m serious. If something’s wrong, we can help, but we can’t do that if you don’t tell us what’s going on.”
Logan’s grip on your shoulder tightened, and you could feel the tension radiating off him. He leaned forward, his jaw clenched, his voice dangerously low. “I said drop it, Summers.”
“Why? What’s the big deal? We’re just trying to—”
Before he could finish, Logan shot to his feet, his voice breaking as he shouted, “Because we lost our baby, alright?”
The room fell into a stunned silence. Logan’s chest heaved, his hands clenched into fists at his sides as he stood there, raw and vulnerable in a way none of them had ever seen.
You stared up at him, your heart breaking all over again as you saw the tears streaming down his face, the anguish he’d been holding back finally spilling over. Logan, the man who never cried, was now sobbing in front of everyone, his shoulders shaking as he tried—and failed—to pull himself together.
“Logan…” you whispered, rising to your feet and reaching for him.
He shook his head, his voice cracking. “I—I couldn’t protect the baby. I couldn’t do anything. It’s my fault, sweetheart. I let you down.”
“Stop,” you said firmly, wrapping your arms around him despite the way he tried to pull back. “Logan, stop. It’s not your fault. None of this is your fault.”
He collapsed into your embrace, his head resting against your shoulder as he clung to you, his sobs muffled against your skin. “I’m so sorry,” he choked out, his voice broken.
Tears streamed down your face as you held him, your fingers tangling in his hair as you whispered, “You didn’t let me down. You could never let me down.”
The others sat in stunned silence, their initial shock giving way to quiet understanding. Jean wiped at her tears, her hand resting on Scott’s arm to keep him from saying anything more.
“It’s going to be okay,” you murmured into Logan’s ear, your voice trembling under the weight of your uncertainty. The words felt hollow, like trying to patch a dam with a handful of sand, but you needed him to hear them, to believe them.
Logan pulled back just enough to meet your gaze, his hazel eyes brimming with unspoken pain. His rough edges, the walls he so carefully built, seemed to crumble in that moment. “I don’t know how to do this,” he admitted, his voice hoarse and raw, each word a struggle.
“You don’t have to know,” you whispered, your fingertips brushing a tear from his cheek, the small gesture grounding both of you.
For a moment, he just stared at you, like he was searching for something—hope, strength, maybe even forgiveness. Then, with a shaky exhale, he let himself lean into you, his weight resting against your shoulder as though surrendering to the vulnerability he so often avoided.
You guided him back to the couch, easing him down with gentle hands. Logan found your hand gripping it firmly, almost desperate, as if letting go would make the pain worse. You stayed by his side while the rest of the team sat in stunned silence. Their usual chatter and banter were gone, replaced by an unspoken understanding that this was something fragile that required care.
Jean broke the stillness, her voice soft but resolute. “Why don’t we give them some space?”
One by one, the others stood, their footsteps hesitant as they left the room. Scott lingered near the doorway, his expression conflicted. He seemed rooted to the spot, torn between leaving and staying.
“I’m sorry,” Scott finally said, his voice cracking under the weight of his guilt. He took a step closer, his gaze darting between you and Logan. “I didn’t mean to push earlier. I didn’t know…”
Logan lifted his head slightly, his jaw tight, his expression unreadable. The tension in the room was palpable, but there was no anger in his gaze—just a quiet exhaustion.
Scott ran a hand through his hair, clearly struggling to find the right words. “I was out of line,” he admitted, his voice thick with emotion. “I didn’t realize… I just thought something was off, and I pushed when I shouldn’t have.”
Jean stepped into the room, placing a steadying hand on Scott’s arm. She looked at both of you, her own eyes glistening with unshed tears. “Scott didn’t mean to make things worse,” she said gently. “We’ve… we’ve been where you are.”
You blinked, taken aback. “What do you mean?”
Jean hesitated, her fingers tightening on Scott’s arm as if drawing strength from him. “Before we had Nathan, we… we lost a baby.” Her voice was barely above a whisper, but the weight of her confession filled the room.
You felt your chest tighten before glancing at Logan, who looked just as surprised as you. Scott’s usual stoic demeanor was gone, replaced by a raw vulnerability that you had never seen before.
Scott cleared his throat, his gaze fixed on the floor. “We didn’t tell anyone. Not even the Professor. It was early… and we thought we could handle it on our own.” He let out a shaky breath, his hands clenching at his sides. “But it was hard. Harder than we ever expected.”
Jean nodded, her eyes glistening as she looked at you. “We blamed ourselves. Blamed each other. But eventually, we realized… it wasn’t anyone’s fault. It just… it happens.”
You blinked, the tears welling in your eyes threatening to spill over again. “I didn’t know,” you whispered, your voice barely audible.
Scott let out a bitter laugh, shaking his head. “No one did. I thought if I buried it deep enough, it wouldn’t hurt as much. But seeing you two...” His voice cracked, and he cleared his throat, trying to steady himself. “I’m sorry for pushing earlier. I didn’t mean to make things worse.”
Jean stepped closer, her hand reaching out to yours. “It’s going to take time,” she said softly. “But you don’t have to go through it alone. If you ever need to talk… we’re here.”
Her words, simple but heartfelt, broke through the wall of grief that had been suffocating you. You nodded, a small, grateful smile breaking through your tears. “Thank you,” you whispered.
Scott extended a hand to Logan, who hesitated for a moment before shaking it. It wasn’t much, but it felt like the beginning of an unspoken understanding, a bridge between two men who had rarely seen eye to eye.
As they left the room, you turned to Logan, your hand squeezing his. “That… helped. A little.”
Logan nodded, his thumb brushing over your knuckles. “Yeah,” he murmured, his voice low and steady. “Guess even Scott has his moments.”
You managed a weak laugh, leaning into him as he pulled you close. For the first time in weeks, the weight on your chest felt slightly lighter even if you knew this was only the beginning of trying to find a new normal. 
𓂃
Months had passed since the miscarriage, and while life had begun to find its rhythm again, the pain lingered like an uninvited guest. The grief wasn’t as sharp as it had been in the beginning, but it still loomed over you and Logan, casting a shadow on your once-effortless connection. You both knew it wasn’t your fault, but knowing and feeling weren’t always the same.
Logan, always the protector, had become even more so in the aftermath. His hand rarely left yours, as if letting go for even a moment might cause something else to slip away. He hovered constantly—not in a stifling way, but in a way that spoke volumes about his fear and guilt. While you appreciated his care, you could see that he was holding something back, burying his pain in the only way he knew how.
It wasn’t until one late night, when you reached out for him in bed and found his side cold and empty, that you realized just how much he was struggling. Pulling on a robe, you wandered the quiet halls of the mansion, searching for him. It didn’t take long; you heard the familiar snikt of his claws in the training room.
Peeking inside, your heart broke at the sight of him. Logan stood shirtless in the dim light, sweat dripping from his forehead as he lunged at the sparring dummy. His movements were wild, full of rage and frustration. His claws tore through the dummy with brutal efficiency, slashing and stabbing until it was shredded to pieces. When the dummy finally collapsed in a heap, Logan dropped to his knees, his claws retracting with a metallic hiss. He leaned forward, bracing himself on his hands, his breath coming in harsh, uneven gasps.
You stayed in the doorway for a moment, debating whether to give him space or step in. But as you saw his shoulders slump, the weight of his grief almost palpable, you couldn’t hold back.
“Logan,” you called softly, stepping into the room.
His head whipped around, his eyes wild for a second before softening when he saw you. He wiped a hand across his face as if trying to compose himself. “What’re you doin’ up, sweetheart?” he asked gruffly, his voice low and strained.
“I could ask you the same thing,” you replied, walking closer until you stood in front of him. “I woke up, and you weren’t there.”
He looked away, his jaw tightening. “Just needed to… work some things out.”
You knelt in front of him, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. “You can’t keep doing this, Logan. Pushing it all down, burying it in anger. It’s not going to help.”
His eyes flickered back to you, and for a moment, you saw the raw vulnerability he rarely let anyone see. “I don’t know what else to do,” he admitted, his voice breaking slightly. “I can’t… I can’t stop thinkin’ about it. I don’t know how to make it right.”
You cupped his face in your hands, forcing him to look at you. “You don’t have to make it right,” you said softly, your voice trembling with emotion. “We can’t fix this. We just have to accept it and move on.”
His eyes filled with tears, and he shook his head, his hands coming up to cover yours. “I just wanted to protect you. To give you… everything,” he said, his voice cracking. “And I couldn’t even do that.”
“You did,” you insisted, your thumbs brushing his cheekbones. “Logan, you were there for me every step of the way. You held me when I thought I wasn’t worthy of it. You loved me through it. That’s everything. But you have to let yourself grieve too. You can’t keep punishing yourself like this.”
He looked up at you, his hazel eyes searching yours as if trying to find some kind of answer. Finally, he pulled you into his arms, holding you tightly against him. You felt his chest heave as a sob escaped him, and it broke your heart all over again. You stroked his hair, whispering soothing words as he finally let himself feel the weight of his grief.
After a while, when his breathing steadied, you pulled back just enough to meet his gaze. “Logan,” you began gently, “we need to get out of here. Just for a little while. Go somewhere quiet, just the two of us. We need time to heal.”
He hesitated, his brows furrowing. “You think runnin’ away’s gonna fix it?”
“It’s not running away,” you said firmly. “It’s giving ourselves a chance to breathe. To remember who we are together. We’ve been so caught up in the pain… we need to find our way back to each other.”
He considered your words for a moment, then nodded slowly. “Alright,” he said quietly. “Where do you wanna go?”
You smiled faintly, brushing a stray strand of hair from his face. “Somewhere peaceful. Maybe the cabin up north? Just us. No distractions, no one else.”
Logan exhaled, his shoulders relaxing slightly for the first time in what felt like weeks. “Yeah,” he said, his voice soft but resolute. “I think that’s exactly what we need.”
You leaned in, pressing a tender kiss to his lips feeling a flicker of hope. It wouldn’t be easy, but you knew that as long as you had each other, you could find a way forward.
𓂃
The secluded cabin was tucked away in a quiet corner of nowhere, surrounded by towering trees that swayed softly in the breeze. The air smelled of pine and earth, and the only sounds were the rustling of leaves and the occasional chirp of birds. It was peaceful, untouched, and exactly what you and Logan needed to find each other again.
The calm of the place had worked its magic over the past week. The tension that had weighed heavy on your shoulders began to ease, and you could see the same was true for Logan. His usual gruffness was quieter here, softened by the stillness of the forest and the warmth of the cabin.
As you laced up your hiking boots near the fireplace, you glanced out the window at the sun filtering through the trees. “I’m gonna walk the trail,” you announced casually, straightening up and brushing your hands against your jeans.
Logan’s voice rumbled behind you as he walked into the small living room. “Do you want to go alone?” He leaned against the doorframe, arms crossed as a small, warm smile played on his lips.
You turned to face him, quirking an eyebrow as you stepped closer. “Depends… are you gonna be good company, tough guy?”
That earned you the smallest huff of laughter, his smirk tugging wider. “There she is,” he murmured, his tone warm and teasing as he reached out to pull you into his arms. His lips brushed against the bridge of your nose, lingering for just a moment before he tilted his forehead against yours. “I missed those little remarks,” he admitted quietly.
You chuckled, your hands sliding up to rest on his chest. “And here I thought they annoyed you,” you teased, glancing up at him with a playful glint in your eyes.
Logan rolled his eyes, though the grin that spread across his face betrayed him. “Darlin’, I’d be lost without ‘em,” he said, his voice softer now. His hazel eyes searched yours for a moment, and his hand came up to gently cup your cheek. “I love you,” he added, the words quiet but weighty, as if they held the sum of everything he couldn’t quite say.
You felt a warmth spread through your chest, and you leaned into his touch, brushing your thumb over the back of his hand. “I love you too,” you whispered, the words spilling out like a promise. Then you grinned, breaking the moment with a playful nudge to his side. “Now hurry up, or I’m leaving you behind.”
Logan smirked, dropping his hand to give your hip a playful squeeze. “Don’t get cocky. Let me grab my boots.” He turned toward the door, muttering something about you always keeping him on his toes, but there was no bite to his words—just affection.
A few minutes later, the two of you were walking side by side down the dirt trail, surrounded by the serene beauty of the forest. The sunlight trickled through the canopy above, casting dappled patterns on the ground. You could hear the crunch of leaves beneath your boots and the faint trickle of a nearby stream.
For a while, neither of you spoke, content to simply exist in the quiet of nature and each other’s presence. Logan reached out to take your hand, his fingers wrapping securely around yours. You glanced up at him, catching the way the golden light softened his rugged features. He looked more at ease than he had in months, and it made your heart ache.
“You know,” you began, a teasing lilt in your voice, “I didn’t peg you for the hand-holding type.”
Logan glanced down at you, one brow arching. “Don’t start,” he warned, though the corner of his mouth twitched.
“What? I think it’s cute.” You swung his hand slightly, earning a quiet groan.
“You’re lucky I’m in a good mood,” he muttered, but the smirk tugging at his lips gave him away.
You laughed, leaning into his side as you walked. “Admit it—you like it.”
He let out a low chuckle, his thumb brushing over the back of your hand. “Maybe I do,” he murmured, his voice softer now. “Can’t say I mind when it’s with you.”
Your chest swelled at the admission, and you stopped walking for a moment, turning to face him. “Thank you,” you said, your voice earnest.
Logan frowned slightly, confused. “For what?”
“For bringing me here,” you explained, gesturing to the forest around you. “For… letting me have this time with you. I needed it.”
His expression softened, and he reached up to tuck a strand of hair behind your ear. “I needed it too,” he admitted, his voice low. “I didn’t know how much until now.”
You smiled, leaning up to press a kiss to his cheek. “You know, this whole reconnecting thing looks good on you, Logan.”
He huffed a laugh, shaking his head. “Yeah, yeah. Don’t let it go to your head.”
“Oh, it’s already there,” you teased, slipping your arms around his waist. “Now, let’s see if you can keep up, old man.”
Logan let out a bark of laughter, his hand sliding to rest on your lower back. “You’re gonna regret that, sweetheart,” he warned, his voice full of playful challenge.
“Promises, promises,” you shot back with a grin, taking off down the trail as Logan chased after you, the sound of your laughter carrying through the trees.
Eventually, Logan caught up to you, his strong arms wrapping securely around your waist as he pulled you to a stop. Your laughter echoed through the trees, a sound that seemed to brighten the peaceful forest around you. “I was so sure I was gonna win,” you teased, still catching your breath as you squirmed halfheartedly in his grip.
Logan let out a low chuckle, the rumble of it vibrating through you. “Guess I’m not as old as you think I am,” he shot back, his smirk smug as he held you against his chest.
“Oh, you’re definitely old,” you teased, leaning back into him. “I mean, just look at your white—”
“Don’t finish that sentence, gorgeous,” Logan warned, cutting you off with a playful growl, though the amusement in his voice betrayed him.
You turned in his arms, grinning as your fingers reached up to play with the strands of his hair. “You know I love you,” you said softly, letting the teasing drop for a moment. “Pretty sure if I met you… say ten years from now, I’d still fall for you. Still, marry you.”
Logan’s expression softened, his hazel eyes meeting yours with a tenderness that made your chest tighten. “I don’t doubt that,” he murmured. “But for the record, darlin’, I’m glad it didn’t take ten years.”
You smiled, your fingers tracing small circles on the back of his neck. “Me too,” you whispered. The peaceful silence of the forest wrapped around you both, and for a moment, everything felt still, like the world had paused just for the two of you.
Logan’s hands settled on your hips. “You’ve been thinkin’ about the future a lot lately, haven’t you?” he asked, his voice quiet but full of understanding.
You hesitated for a beat, then nodded. “Yeah,” you admitted. “I mean, with everything that’s happened… I guess I just wonder what’s next for us. Like, are we supposed to keep trying? Or are we supposed to let it go?”
Logan’s jaw tightened slightly, his gaze dropping to where his hand rested on your waist. After a moment, he sighed and looked back up at you, his eyes steady and sure. “I think… maybe we don’t need to push so hard. If it happens, it happens,” he said, his voice low but resolute. “But what we’ve got right now? It’s enough for me. You’re enough for me.”
His words hit you like a warm wave, washing away the doubt and guilt that had lingered for weeks. “Logan…” you began, but your voice caught, the lump in your throat making it hard to speak. You swallowed hard and managed a smile. “You really mean that?”
“Of course I do,” he said, his thumb brushing gently against your cheek. “I don’t need anything else, sweetheart. Just you. The rest? That’s just… bonus.”
You let out a soft, shaky laugh, leaning your forehead against his. “You always know just what to say, don’t you?”
He smirked, pressing a quick kiss to your lips. “That’s my job, isn’t it?”
You grinned, shaking your head. “Well, for what it’s worth, I feel the same way. I don’t want us to lose ourselves trying to force something that’ll happen when it’s meant to.”
Logan’s arms tightened around you. “Good,” he murmured. “Because I don’t want to miss a single second of us, just the way we are.”
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kithtaehyung · 1 year ago
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drabble: first one pairing: 3tan!yoongi x reader(f) rating/genre: pg ; fluff ; three tangerines au note: uhh. surprise and happy holidays LOL. based on this ig reel sent in the discord multiple times, this little slice is gonna kickstart the "3tan does sm" mini series! basically this little ongoing collection will have all the drabbles/requests based on social media things y'all send in. if it inspires me, i'll make a drabble or something out of it hehehe. enjoy! warnings: nothing big. just 3tan yoongi lol links: three tangerines mlist ; masterlist drop date: december 28, 2023, 7:07pm est word count: 1.1k
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In the middle of winter, you decide that tonight is the perfect time to try something new. 
Which leaves Yoongi confused as hell because this attempt requires him to be outside in the freeze, when the two of you were just bundled up in blankets and watching a movie minutes ago. 
But he can scold your lack of attention span and tendency to watch videos during long movies later. 
“What am I doing?” 
Placing him on one spot of the sidewalk just outside his apartment, you urge, “Just, hold on. Stay right there.” 
“Huh?” 
Giggling, you give no other instructions, instead rushing forward to bring your phone to a nearby bench. When you set it down to see what the camera catches, you determine that you look fine enough, so you tell Yoongi—who is simply standing there and still looking devastatingly handsome—what you wanna do. “Okay, pull up the video I sent you.” 
“Shouldn’t we go back inside?” 
“Yes, yes, after this.” 
When you walk up, he pulls up the link, and you both watch as people run to their partners and rush them out of frame, spinning them around or chasing them away. 
Ever consistent, Yoongi is both unfazed and wondering what goes on. “What’s the goal of this again?” 
Shrugging, you’re just happy he’s not tugging you back indoors yet. “I don’t really know, but. I just wanna see how you do it.” 
“Mm…” He looks one more time, cementing his answer with the way he smushes his lips. “Fine.” 
“You’ll do it?” 
“Uh huh. But this is just for you.” 
Right. Because of course this can't be seen anywhere else. Your smile is rueful with a tinge of holiday hope, “I know.” 
And Yoongi’s expression carries the same weight. 
Maybe one day this conversation will be a lot different. Just like the way your quick stay at his place while your brother is at a work dinner will prove a lot longer of a night. One day. 
Maybe.
Cheering yourself up, you practically bounce back to where the bench is, slipping a bit with a tiny “whoops” before reaching out to press record. Backing up onto the sidewalk, you throw up peace signs, poses, do a few different filler moves until Yoongi does his part. 
But nothing happens. 
And no one appears by your side. 
So you turn to see if he actually left but goddamn it is he recording you? “What the!” 
Yoongi just laughs as you kick your head back in laughter, and stops holding his phone up. “So cute.” 
Damn it, he can’t give you this fluttering feeling while being annoying! “Focus!” 
Groaning, you turn your recording off and then back on again, repeating some of the same things for the camera and shuffling a little in place to warm up. Because it is freezing and this idea could have waited another season or two. 
And when you look to the side after a pause, Yoongi is recording again. 
You bend forward to shield from the chill, your yell echoing throughout the small little courtyard, “Yoongi!” Does he have to keep grinning like that? There’s no time for prolonging this even more! “I cannot with you right now.” 
After another attractive huff of amusement, he keeps going, “I can’t help it! You’re being adorable.” 
Well. At least Yoongi’s having his fun. If anything, he’s stalling because he doesn’t wanna do whatever challenge this is. So you can drop it. “Ugh… Never mind, we can go inside.” 
After grabbing your phone, you walk up to him again before he stops you. And you think it’s because you were about to slip once more, but his low tone gets you to see his face under those locks. 
“Nah, we can do it.” When you give him a pouting frown, his teeth shine. “Serious!” 
Easily placated, you’re back to grinning. “Okay, for real this time! It’s cold!” 
“I know! You didn’t even let me get my beanie!” 
Laughing out your guilt, you warn him over your shoulder, “If you run into me, you better not knock me over.” 
“I won’t, doll.” 
“Okay!” Placing your phone down for hopefully the last time, you hit record, seeing yourself sigh before gingerly walking back to the sidewalk. 
In hindsight, maybe it wasn’t the best idea to try and get Yoongi to do this. It’s colder than hell’s deepest frost at this point, and some snow is still falling from darkened skies. 
But all the little reactions in the videos looked too cute, and you are genuinely curious to see what he’s gonna do. So even through your poses, you brace yourself. Is he gonna run in for a hug? Is he gonna rush you off with a big warm embrace? 
…Is he really not gonna do anything?
Feeling a little bad, you drop the cute poses and turn. 
Only to feel him right at your side, gathering you with a soft, strong arm and leading you down the sidewalk. 
Well, damn.
The gesture is so him that, for a second, you genuinely think that he saw something and led you out of harm’s way on instinct. But as you look around, you don’t see anyone else in the wintry courtyard besides the two of you. 
“What’s wrong?” 
Your vision flicks away from the lighted trees dotting the area. “Oh, nothing, I was just…” 
“Wanna run it back? If we do let’s go somewhere else. It’s icy right there.” 
Blinking, you see his eyes full of pure curiosity and attentiveness. 
And suddenly you wanna go back inside for a completely different reason other than warmth. 
“That felt perfect,” you whisper, eyes lowering to his ever inviting lips. “Lemme check it.” 
Leaving his cozy side, you go back and retrieve your chilly phone, stopping the recording that you are relieved you successfully started. Both you and Yoongi watch as you play the full thing, and after he leads you out of frame, your jaw drops. 
“Oh, my god. This beats all the ones I’ve seen.” 
“Really?” 
“Damn… Now I’m actually sad I can’t post this.” When you laugh, it’s not all joyful. Turning to him, you pretend to be mad. “Why are you so cool?” 
Huffing small, Yoongi looks up and around you before giving your cheek a kiss, and your knees weaken at how tender it is. “Send it to me,” he murmurs. 
“You want it, too?” 
“Mm.” 
“Okay.” 
“Just a little longer, babe.” He gives you another peck on your very cold nose. Then both cheeks. And your forehead. 
All while you’re out in the open where anyone could witness. 
Just his willingness to amuse you was already perfect. Yoongi didn’t need to do any of that, and he certainly didn’t need to be so charming with his stylistic choice. But he did it all anyway while freezing his pretty ass off.
And his next words make your chest yearn to stay with him—for every holiday season and silly trend that comes around. 
“Then this’ll be the first one of us we post.”
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fin. :)
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🌨️ what do we feel! i needed this little drabble :')) 🌨️
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a/n: did i mean for this to be a full blown drabble? no! was this the video that bo originally sent me that i flailed over? no! but it's the reel i saw and apparently had been sent in the server multiple times. so here we are with a surprise hahaha.
enjoy your holidays, everyone! and if you have anything social media related that 3tan reminds you of - or you can see the 3tan crew doing - send them in and maybe i'll get inspired again. :D this didn't take me long at all and i wanted to do it, so no worries about extra work!
a/n 2: 3tan12 is going strong alongside the holiday fics! should be posting teasers and taglists for those, too. very very excited for all of them mwahaha
🌨️ links: three tangerines mlist ; masterlist
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sweetteainthesummerx · 7 months ago
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THE LOVE LASTS SO LONG (12)
In which the Ferrari gang tackles Austria
series masterlist
Note: YAY their relationship is finally starting to develop more teehee. Let me know if you have feedback or if you want to be added to the taglist. Warning: mentions of an erection, mildly sexual
★・・・・★・・・・ ★・・・・★
aubreyyang posted
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aubreyyang sound of music type beat
liked by dior.n.goodjohn, alexandrasaintmleux and 100,753
dior.n.goodjohn OMG THE COWS ARE SO CUTE
-- aubreyyang ikr I got to pet them I can die happy
user1 MOTHERS they're so pretty ughhh
-- user2 oh to be traveling with f1 drivers over europe
charles_leclerc pic creds for first slide and also THATS MY GF
-- aubreyyang not with that attitude
-- user3 BAHAH they're so funny bye
walker.scobell oh look its you on the third slide
-- aubreyyang I bought you a t shirt im throwing it out the window
-- walker.scobell NOOO I TAKE IT BACK
-- pjo.fandom.08 aww shes so older sibling
MESSAGES
alex 🖼️
hey cherie! I think Charles and I are going to stay in for today the hiking yesterday knocked us out
aubrey 🎬
aww okayy
we'll have dinner or lunch today tho?
alex 🖼️
bien sur!!
MESSAGES
aubrey
morning!
ollie
good morning :)
aubrey
charl and lex aren't coming to explore the city are you still up for it?
ollie
yeah ill come pick you up at ur room
Ollie silently thanked Charles and his old age: a whole morning alone with Aubrey.
“Hey.” Ollie smiled down at Aubrey when she cracked open her door at his knock.
“Morning! You wanna come in for a second? I need to put my shoes on before we go.” She pushed her earring backing on, turning as he let himself in. 
She was wearing a tiny top with no straps the colour of a ripe peach and a white skirt. The heat was unbearable, so her hair was pushed from her face in a long, pretty tail. He wondered how she would react if he smoothed his fingers along her soft, tanned skin  or if he ran his tugged at her dark hair. 
Friends, he reminded himself. But she was so…
He thumped onto her bed face down, earning a giggle from Aubrey. He flipped back up goofily, a little taken a back by the strong smell of her shampoo and perfume while she puttered around the room, retrieving knick knacks and dropping them into her little handbag. 
He pretended for one moment that she was his, and that he didn’t have to take her presence in like a drowning man gasping for air. He wouldn’t mind drowning in her, if this was the sight he would be greeted by everyday. 
“Dude. Stop staring at me like that.” She scrunched her nose. 
“Sorry.” He murmured, not sounding sorry at all. 
She tugged her sambas on, falling onto the bed next to him. He sighed, closing his eyes when she ran one hand through his hair, fingernails catching pleasantly on his scalp. 
He bit back a noise that would surely embarrass himself. 
“Tired? We can stay back today if you want.” The morning light glowed yellow beyond his eyelids, and her soft, accented voice was husky. His chest ached for her, and she was barely a foot away. 
“No, s’alright.” His eyes fluttered open. He realized with a start that while he was flat on his back, Aubrey had propped herself up on one elbow on her side next to him. He tried his best not to look at the slender expanse of her neck and chest. He failed miserably. 
“Hmm. Some shopping, some food and then we’ll head back and take a nap?” She asked, standing and reaching a small hand out to help him. Who was he to refuse? He let her drag him up, laughing when she had to put her whole body weight behind it. 
They spent the rest of the morning perusing shops after the subway ride, not really buying anything but looking and talking. He loved having her near, loved making her smile and laugh and hit his chest when his jokes were inappropriate and childish. 
Every time she turned to tell him something - that usually made him laugh - his hand twitched to reach out to touch her. Her hand, her bare face, the small of her back. 
When they realized that they’d missed breakfast and lunch (Ollie’s stomach was starting to growl, he was still growing, thank you very much) they decided to head back and see if Charles and Alex wanted a late lunch together. 
They made their way to the subway, and Ollie grabbed her hand and slid it into the crook of his elbow with the excuse of not wanting to lose her in the crowd. He threw in a short joke with it, hoping that his need to touch her was not so obvious. 
Ever since she told him that she turned her brain off when she was with him in public, he made sure to show her that this trust she held for him was very much safe and sound. 
She hummed some pop tune as he guided her onto the train, settling them both onto seats. She was showing him Formula memes when someone beside her jostled, tossing her across his lap. 
He glared at the careless man, and hauled her easily onto his lap by her waist without thinking. She went very still, and he was about to apologize profusely or dig a hole and bury himself in it (or both) but she wiggled into a comfortable position. Even sitting on his lap, he could see past her head. As she leaned back against his chest, he carefully pulled her hair up so it was resting against his shoulder and not crushed between them. 
“Let me know if I’m too heavy, I can stand-“
He kissed his teeth with his tongue, “You weigh like 5 kilos, love.”
She let out a contented hum, turning her face into his neck. Her warm breath, her scent and the tip of her nose against his jaw was too much. 
He was a man, after all. And Aubrey was objectively one of the most beautiful, kind and decent people he’d ever met. So with her moving around on his lap and her mouth dangerously close to his neck…
“Is your phone in your pocket?” She asked, reaching behind her. Panicked, he caught her wrist. 
“That’s not-“ his ears felt hot, and she stiffened. 
“Oh.”
Great, now she thought he was a pervert who-
She was laughing. At him, because they were on a subway in Vienna with her on his lap while he had a hard on. 
She was laughing, that bright, clear sound that made him melt like wax on a candle. 
He poked her side, whining, “It’s not funny!”
“It’s a little bit-“ she moved to stand, but he locked his forearm around her waist.
“Give me a second.” He muttered, and much to his chagrin she was giggling again. 
"You know, you had me worried. I thought you weren't..." she started, shrugging, face flushed prettily, "sorry, this is weird, isn't it? You're...you're my best friend."
"You're more than my best friend. You know that." he murmured and he felt her cheek tense into a smile, "What were you going to say?"
"I thought you didn't find me attractive." she bit out, mortified.
"I'm sorry? Have you seen yourself? Of course I'm attracted to you, love. I just didn't want to scare you off."
Finally, it was their station, and they walked back to the hotel, hand in hand. 
She made fun of him all the way there, and he found that he really didn’t mind, especially if she kept smiling that wide, rosy smile. 
olliebearman posted on their story
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caption: bit of shopping
aubreyyang posted on their story
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caption: collecting mirror selfies in bathrooms with my girl
tagged: alexandrasaintmleux
"Good to head back?"
"Oui." Alex smoothed her hair one more time, and they returned to their boys at the small restaurant in Vienna they were eating dinner at.
When they returned to the table from the bathroom - she was seriously collecting mirror selfies from bathrooms - and sat, Ollie wrapped one large hand around the leg of her chair ( and if she had wished that it had been her calf, that was nobody’s business) and tugged her closer to himself. He slung his arm around the back of her chair, fingers grazing her shoulder. 
“Hi.” He grinned, proud of himself. Across the table, Charles made a gagging sound. Alex rolled her eyes while smiling at her boyfriend, passing Aubrey the plate of fruit. 
“Okay, so tonight we leave for France and we stay there for two days, n’est-ce pas?”
“Oui, and then do we have plans?” Charles asked as Ollie swiped a piece of orange off of Aubrey’s plate.
“Le Tour Eiffel, obviously. Louvre, maybe some shopping?” Aubrey suggested, and the boys groaned. 
“It will be fun.” She protested, and Alex smiled sweetly. 
“Sure, Aubs.” His finger traced down her shoulder, and she resisted the urge to shiver. Ollie was getting brave. Ever since their day together exploring the city, he seemed to be getting more affectionate and clingy - which she didn’t not mind one bit. 
Before the Vienna Train Incident, as Alex and Aubrey dubbed it, he had been so sweet. The perfect gentleman, always respectful and kind. She had actually wondered if he’d found her attractive at all. 
But when he had whispered low and panicked in her ear that the hardness nudging into her thigh was indeed not his phone, it was almost like a confirmation for her. In fact, she started to notice the little things: his ears would turn red when she traced the veins on his forearms while they waited for Alex and Charles to come down to the lobby, his eyes seemed to be magnetic against her back whenever she wore a sundress (floral usually. He really liked pale yellow. Not that she was taking note) and his hands almost always drifted to her like he wasn’t thinking. 
She was gaining confidence; that little voice in her head that kept telling her she would be so happy and safe with him if she would just her herself try…
He could make her so happy. If being friends with him was that great, being his girlfriend would be a dream. She just wanted to make sure. 
An idea came to her head, and she looked down. Ollie liked to manspread, so his knee was knocking into her crossed legs. Aha. The shoes she’d chosen for tonight were nice white heels with pointed toes. Very slowly and deliberately, she hooked the point of the shoe under his pant leg and dragged it up his skin. He choked on his water, coughing. And, bingo. His ears were turning that endearing Ferrari colour. 
“You alright, mate?” Charles asked. Aubrey saw through her peripheral that the tall man beside her was most definitely looking at her accusingly. Cute. 
“Yeah, sorry. Choked. So-“ he cleared his throat. “Shopping probably the second day, yeah? Maybe a nice dinner and then we leave for the south?”
“Mm. I think you are right, Ollie,” Alex brushed a crumb off of Charles’s shirt, “the Louvre will take a while. I want pictures.”
“Sounds good.” A very large, warm calloused hand just landed on her knee, sliding slowly up to her thigh. His pinky finger - probably as long as her pointer - slipped under her skirt. Her breath caught, but no choking occurred. 
“Let’s head out then?” Charles asked, waving for the check. 
Disappointed, Aubrey felt Ollie’s hand leave her skin, feeling suddenly cold. But then he draped a heavy arm around her shoulder when they stood, waiting for the other couple to join them in their trek back to the hotel. 
★・・・・★・・・・ ★・・・・★
Taglist: @callsignwidow @iloveyou3000morgan @honethatty12 @taygrls @destinyg237 @ilivbullyingjeongin
© sweetteainthesummerx.tumblr. all rights reserved. unauthorized copying, translation, or claiming of my writing or any works as your own is strictly prohibited.
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mountttmase · 1 year ago
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Winter Sun - Chapter 3
Note - chapter three already I can’t 😭 honestly thank you so much for all the love and interaction on this it’s really warming my cold little heart 🥹 enjoy this one kiddos and let me know what you think ���� also sorry if the tag list didn’t work last week I think I’ve fixed it for this one 🤞🏻
Pairing - Mason Mount × Reader
Word count - 7.1k
Warnings - series will contain fluff, smut & angst
Masterlist
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After your late night between the sheets, you treated yourself to a lie in the next morning. Waking to find a text from Carly to meet her by the pool with the others when you were ready, so you quickly threw on a bikini and shorts before throwing over a shirt and grabbing your things to go and find her.
You knew they shouldn’t, but Mason's words from yesterday were playing in your head a little bit still. You knew he meant nothing by it and was just being his cheeky self but you didn’t want to be a customer of his no matter if he meant it as a joke or not. It made you feel as if you were in a long line of girls he picked up whenever he felt like it and yes you were technically just friends but you couldn’t help but feel upset about it. Especially after the awkward good night you’d suffered through after you were both done last night and you felt like the whole arrangement you had going on was a bit weird now.
By the time you were outside pretty much everyone was there bar Woody, Kayla and Mason and you quickly said hello to Dec and Lauren before making your way over to Carly who had Ben's head laid in her lap as she played with his hair.
‘Morning lovebirds’ you smiled, standing at the end of their sun lounger before Carly patted the one next to her.
‘I’ve saved you a seat’
‘Oh, that’s a double though I don’t wanna take up a whole one to myself’ you told her, looking to see if one of the single ones were free but they were on the other side of the pool so you wouldn’t be able to speak to her.
‘There’s plenty for everyone else, come on it’s fine’ she pouted and after another quick scan around you realised she was right so you got yourself comfortable. The pair of you sat chatting and catching up until the others emerged and about half an hour later Mason showed up. The sight of him making your mouth water as he made his way over to everyone.
You’d seen him in a lot less by now but the tiny black swim shorts were making your tummy churn as they accentuated all your favourite features of his. Low on his soft hips but his thighs were still strong and the mole on his tummy was driving you wild. You kept your eyes down though and pretended to read as he made his way over to you.
‘Morning all’ he chirped and you sent him a quick smile before going back to reading. It didn’t deter him from flopping down next to you though and when you didn’t look at him, you felt his hand gently trail up your thigh before giving it a quick squeeze.
‘What are you doing?’ You whispered, heart racing from the feel of his fingers. Gulping down a nervous lump and quickly flashing your eyes his way to look at him. He was giving you his usual cheeky, innocent smile but you knew he knew what was happening.
‘What?’
‘Don’t, people might see’ you told him, moving your leg so his hand dropped onto the cushion with a thud and you could see his scowl from the corner of your eye.
‘What’s wrong?’
‘Nothing, I’m fine’
‘Did you sleep okay?’
‘I said I’m fine’
‘Y/n, I grew up in a house full of women. I know fine doesn’t mean fine’
‘I just wanna read my book’ you told him lowly and after a small nod he slowly got up and made his way over to the pool.
You felt awful instantly, watching him over your glasses as he swam a few laps with a solemn expression. You knew Mason and you knew he meant no harm with what he’d said yesterday. This was a tricky situation, lines were a little bit blurry but there was no use being snappy with him for something you knew he meant as a joke and you were being sensitive over. No matter how much he’d made you feel like it was something else, even in this short space of time, you were friends and the friendship comes first.
The longer you watched him, the more guilty you felt and you watched as he propped himself up at the end of the pool. His chin resting on his arms as he faced away from you and you knew you had to talk to him and apologise so you carefully got up to go and see him. Plonking yourself down at the edge of the pool next to him so you could dangle your legs in the water before looking at him in hopes you could catch his eye.
He looked up at you instantly, his big brown eyes making your tummy sink so you reached out to gently grasp the back of his head so you could pull him closer to you and he thankfully went with it. Your heart leaping when he settled himself between your legs, arms wrapping around your thighs before he rested his cheek on top of one so he could look up at you.
‘Sorry Mase. I didn’t mean to be moody’ you told him quietly and the small smile on his lips filled you with relief.
‘S’okay. Are you alright?’
‘I’m fine, I promise’ you reassured him, feeling even worse that he didn't seem to mind your mood swing. He just wanted to make sure you were okay. ‘Maybe I should have stayed in bed a bit longer, huh? I’ll be fine after a nap’
‘You’ve only just woken up’ he chuckled, eyes brighter than before which caused you to smile as you knew you were okay again and you let your hand get lost in his hair.
‘Hey, naps can be taken anytime of the day’
‘Very true’ he giggled, squeezing your thighs gently. ‘Let me know when you’re taking one I’ll join you’
You weren’t sure if it was the sun bearing down on you or if it was Mason himself but you felt warmed from the inside and as your hand was trailing over the top of his back and you were surprised at how warm his skin felt too. ‘Have you put sunscreen on?’ You asked but he shook his head shyly. ‘Come on, I’ve got some let me help you’
‘You don’t wanna come for a swim?’
‘No thanks, waters not really my thing. You should be thankful I’m even sat here’ you laughed before he kissed your thigh and swam back slightly to let you up.
Mason managed to dry off a little bit before he sat at the end of the sun lounger with his back to you and you slid in behind him to get to work. You'd never really taken a good look at his back before but he was much broader than you realised and you loved the way his muscles contracted under your touch. Taking your time to really look at him and feel him before telling him to turn and face you.
You let him get comfortable, one leg stretched out on the lounger now so you could sit yourself closer to his body. Noticing the way he shivered as you applied the cold cream to his skin before sending him an apologetic smile. He didn’t seem to mind though, a soft smile playing on his face as he watched your every move and you hoped he couldn’t hear your heart going at a mile a minute as you touched his chest and down to his abs.
It felt weird having these feelings. Mason was a friend and you knew that. But he was a gorgeous, funny and kind friend with an incredible body and you couldn’t believe you were sat here touching him up like this in front of everyone. Only made worse when his hand reached out to touch your thigh carefully.
The sound and feel of his belly rumbling as you applied the sunscreen to his body made you chuckle, eyeing him curiously as he laughed at himself before you rested your hands on his hips.
‘You not had anything to eat yet?’ You asked, watching him shake his head before you let out a little sigh. ‘Why not?’
‘You didn’t make me anything’
‘Oh so it’s my fault?’ You laughed, squeezing his sides playfully and watching him giggle and squirm before he nodded his head.
‘Well sort of yeah. It’s sort of your job whilst you’re here’ he winked causing you to roll your eyes but you knew he was right.
‘Fine. Just your face to do then I’ll make you something’ you smiled, applying some more cream to your fingers before awkwardly pushing your sunglasses up your face so you could get a better look at him. Thankfully for you the sun was behind you so you could see him perfectly and the sight almost took your breath away. Admiring all the tiny freckles that littered his face, the curve of his nose and the fullness of his lips. He really was beautiful and you used the excuse of putting sunscreen on his face to look at him like you never had before.
You knew he was watching you too, his bright brown eyes following you out of the corner of your eye but as soon as you tried to make eye contact, he looked down and a rosy tint began to flush over his cheeks.
‘I’ve never noticed how many freckles you have before’ you told him quietly, letting his eyes flicker up to you again before looking away. ‘They’re really pretty, I’m actually very jealous’ you whispered but before he could reply the sound of someone else’s voice caught your attention.
‘Oi Mase, why are you so red?’ Ben laughed from behind you and the fact that Ben had noticed only made it even worse. ‘Are you blushing?’
‘No, fuck off. It’s the sun’ he retorted, his hands suddenly retreating from your leg as he played with his fingers in his lap and you felt your heart sink a little bit.
‘Ben’ you suddenly heard Carly moan. Drawing his name out in disappointment followed by the sound of a gentle slap to the back of his head. ‘Will you stop it. Leave him alone’
‘What? I’m just-‘
‘No you’re being mean’
‘Come on, let me go make you something’ you smiled softly, standing up and offering him your hand even though you knew it was a bit risky but he took it anyway and let you pull him up before following you into the kitchen. ‘You want anything in particular?’
‘Whatever the chef recommends’ he winked and after a quick look in the cupboards you found everything you needed to make pancakes.
Mason sat and watched as you got everything together, asking if he could help in any way so you passed him a few bananas for him to slice up so they were ready before asking him to get the drinks ready. When you finally placed his food down in front of him he sent you the most appreciative smile and your heart thudded at his wide grin.
‘Thank you, Muffin. These look amazing’ he smiled as you put your plate down opposite him and watched him dig in. You loved waiting for Mason's reactions whenever you made him something to eat as he was always seemingly blown away and this time was no exception. Shovelling it in like he’d been starved for weeks as he let you know how good it was in between mouthfuls.
‘What’s going on here?’ You suddenly heard, turning to see Dec walking in, eyes on your plates as he licked his lips before sitting down next to you. ‘Why is he getting special treatment?’
‘He’s not’ you laughed, cheeks flushing at the thought of being found out. ‘Do you want something?’
‘No thanks, Lauren made me something earlier’ he teased whilst nicking a few blueberries from Masons plate.
‘Why are you moaning then?’ Mason laughed, moving his plate away out of Declan’s reach so he couldn’t take anymore of his food.
‘Cause that looks better than what I had’
‘You wait till I tell Lauren that. You won’t be eating for the rest of the week’ Mason teased, watching Dec’s face drop before standing up.
‘You do that, and I’ll make things difficult for you’ he scoffed before grabbing a few bottles of water out of the fridge. ‘Now hurry up you two, we need someone else for water volleyball’
‘I’ll be out in a minute, y/n can keep score’ Mason told him, sending you a quick wink as if he was acknowledging what you told him earlier and once you were both done he quickly helped you wash up before meeting them outside.
Kayla had also decided to sit this one out so you sat with her, pretending to keep score as you got to know each other a little better and you were pleased to find out how suited to Woody she was. She seemed to really care for him and when Woody jumped out the pool to grab his glasses she blushed as he placed a quick kiss to the top of her head.
‘You and Mason seem sweet together’
‘Oh we’re not together’ You told her, ‘we’re just friends’
‘Oh I’m so sorry’ she panicked, face going ever redder and she tried to hide in her hands but you just laughed which seemed to make her feel better. ‘I just assumed, thinking it was a couples holiday. That’s why I was so confused about you having separate rooms, you seem really close’
‘Its okay, we are pretty close and I think since he’s moved away i just miss him a bit more than usual. It’s nice to be with him again for more than a couple of hours’
‘Oh trust me, Woody doesn’t shut up about him and then every Tuesday at 8pm on the dot they have their little weekly facetime. Sometimes I think I should be worried’
‘You should speak to Lauren about that’ you laughed, watching Mason try and climb on Ben's shoulders so he could reach higher for the ball. ‘I think she’s genuinely worried Dec might leave her for him one day’
After another 20 minutes or so everyone was ready to get out, Woody stealing Kayla away to their own lounger and you’d noticed Mason had sunk down on the one you’d been occupying earlier. His eyes caught yours straight away as he called you back over so you gathered up your things to go and sit by him again.
‘Mase you’re all wet’ you complained as you got there, walking round to his side so you were further away from Carly and Ben and hopefully out of ear shot before watching him shake his hair like a dog as he sent you a lopsided smile.
‘It’s alright, I’ll dry. I wondered if you fancied that nap you spoke about earlier?’ He asked and you couldn’t deny him. Placing your things down on the floor but he was quick to stop you before you tried to lay down. His hand on your thigh to cease your movements causing you to look down at him in confusion. ‘I have conditions, and those are that those shorts and that shirt need to come off’ he told you quietly. Fingers dancing over the backs of your legs as he teased you but you figured two could play at that game.
‘You wish is my command’ you laughed, stepping back and away from him so you could remove the open shirt off your arms before unbuttoning your shorts and pulling them down your legs so you were just left in your white bikini. ‘That better?’
‘Perfect’ he smiled, his tongue darting out of his mouth as he looked you up and down before helping you back onto the lounger. He wasn’t sat down for long though, quickly getting up to pull the umbrella over you so you could both be out of the direct sunlight and you smiled to yourself at the thoughtful gesture. ‘I’ll try and have a think about what I want for lunch next’ he teased, laying beside you as you turned to face each other.
‘Hey Mase, why don’t I have a FaceTime time slot?’
‘What are you on about?’
‘Kayla told me you and Woody facetime every Tuesday at 8 and I bet Dec and Ben have a slot. Where’s mine?’ You teased, watching his face hide in the pillow as he laughed before facing you again with a wide smile.
‘I can add you to the rota. I’ll have my receptionist send over my availability’ he teased but you just rolled your eyes before turning onto your back.
‘Very funny’ you huffed, shutting your eyes as you could feel them becoming heavy but the feeling of Mason's pinkie linking yours made your heart thud and when you opened an eye to look at him he was still on his side but his eyes were shut.
You woke up a little while later pressed up against something warm but soft. Opening your eyes to find yourself laying on Mason's chest with your arm across his waist whilst he rested his hand on your back, dangerously close to your bum.
‘You make sure you’re behaving, Mason’ you whispered, noticing he wasn’t fully asleep and the little chuckle that fell from his lips let you know he’d heard you.
‘I always am’ he smiled. Pressing a light kiss to your forehead as his fingers danced just above the waistline of your bikini bottoms. ‘You’re not a bad sight to wake up to, Muffin’
‘Gee, thanks Mase’ you laughed, attempting to move but he didn’t let you. Holding you tighter to him as he trapped your leg in his and you knew better than to try and escape.
‘Don’t go, I’m comfy’ he breathed so you stayed where you were even though you knew it was risky but by the looks of it everyone else was asleep too so you basked in the feel of him while everyone else napped around the pool.
After you’d made Mason some lunch, you topped up his sun cream and he offered to help you with yours. Your skin tingling as his hands massaged you slightly and you had to bite your lip so you didn’t start laughing.
You and the rest of the girls went off to get dressed early, going all out tonight and the four of you were in the upstairs sitting room so you could do your makeup together before you popped downstairs to slip your outfit on. You hadn’t got dressed up like this in a while and you couldn’t wait to see Mason's reaction to your frilly lemon two piece that was showing off your tan perfectly.
The plan was to meet in the kitchen at seven so at two minutes too, you grabbed your bag and made your way out of your room. Just as you closed the door behind you, Masons opened. Standing there dressed in cargos and a baggy blue button up but his face was a picture. Eyes wide as they scanned your body fully but it was his tongue nearly falling out of his mouth that made you laugh.
‘Do I look alright?’ You asked, giving him a little twirl but the shuddery breath he let out told you all you needed to know.
‘Are you joking? I’m an actual dead man. Have your worn this just to taunt me?’’
‘No, I just thought it looked cute’
‘Well that’s one word for it’ he breathed, letting you walk in front before he gripped your hips and placed a kiss behind your ear. ‘I think yellow might be my new favourite colour’
‘Come on Mase keep your hands to yourself’ you chuckled, a tingle heading straight down your spine at the feel of his lips on your skin and you were hoping there would be more where that came from later.
‘How can I? I know what you’ve got hiding under here now’ he teased but he slowed down on the stairs so it looked like the pair of you weren’t too close.
Once you were out for dinner, Mason sat next to you again and his arm was back around your chair as you all casually chatted amongst yourselves. Laughing and joking as the boys told stories from camps and all the adventures they’d been on and you felt so full of happiness to be there with them enjoying moments like this.
You’d known it all day, but you were so thankful for Mason and his kindness. You knew you wouldn’t be here without him and you were having the best time so when you caught his eye and he sent you a wink, you had to hold yourself to your seat so you didn’t lean over and kiss him.
The club you were all going to wasn’t far and all the girls led the way with the boys trailing behind and it’s like you could feel Mason's eyes on your bum. Feeling his hand on your shoulder as you neared the entrance so he could lead the way in and over to your reserved table.
Carly ordered your drinks, four pornstar martinis showing up a little while after for all the girls as well as a few bottles of some sort of spirit the boys had ordered and you made it your mission to let loose tonight. Accepting as many shots that were thrown your way, even pouring them straight into Carly’s mouth at one point until Mason cut you off for a little bit and even though you sent him a pout you knew he was just looking out for you.
You were buzzed enough to join the girls for a dance, thankfully not being touched up by any random men this time so you could finally let go. Not caring about what you looked like or who was even looking at you in the first place. Just you and your girls having the time of your lives.
You had to take a break eventually, running out of steam so you plonked on a table in your section and Mason appeared as if by magic with a glass of water ready for you.
‘You’re a lifesaver, thank you Mase’ you gasped, gulping the whole glass down as he looked at you with a funny look in his eye.
‘That’s alright, Muffin. You having a good time?’
‘I really am. Honestly thank you so much Mason, I’ll never be able to repay you or say thank you enough for letting me come here’
‘Don’t be silly. You belong here with us’ he teased, bumping his shoulder into yours playfully but you knew he was just feeling a little shy.
He sat with you for the next 15 minutes or so, talking about the boat trip tomorrow and if you were going to be okay on there. Promising if you didn’t like it he’d get you off and you could spend the day on the beach together but you let him know you’d be fine and you were excited as long as you stayed in the middle.
‘Hey Mase, come join the boys’ you suddenly heard Dec shout from not too far away but Mason just scoffed at him.
‘I’m fine here’
‘Mate come on’
‘I’ll come in a minute, I’m in the middle of a conversation’
‘Look mate I’m not gonna lie, you’re ruining my plans’ Dec told him seriously but you both looked back at him unsure as to what he meant. ‘How are we supposed to find y/n a shag when you won’t leave her alone’
‘Dec I’m not here looking for a shag thank you very much’ you laughed. ‘This trip is supposed to be about us spending time together’
‘Yeah yeah whatever, I’ve made it my mission to get you a man’
‘Dec, I don’t need your help’
‘Sure you do now come on, who’s got your eye’
‘I’m not having this conversation with you’ you laughed as Mason finally stood up.
‘I’ll take one for the team and go with him’ Mason laughed, squeezing your thigh gently but as you looked up to Dec you knew he’d seen so Mason quickly scurried away to go and sit with the other guys.
‘I’ve got my eye on you’
‘What do you mean? What have I done now?’
‘I’m not sure yet, but I’m watching you’
The girls were back soon, coming to sit with you so you could order more drinks and take silly selfies before joining the boys again. Noticing Mason was standing just off to the side on the phone and you wondered who he was speaking to before he walked back over, rolling his eyes.
‘Mase? Everything okay?’ Carly asked but he just let out a huff before speaking.
‘No the bloody security alarms going off in the villa. They’ve tried turning it off remotely but they need someone to put a code in. It’s fine it’s not loud or anything and they said it can wait but I’d feel better if I sorted it out. I’ll pop back there now it won’t take me a sec’
‘I’ll come with you, just to be safe’ you offered and even though you could see him trying to hide a smile you knew it would take some convincing.
‘You don’t have to’
‘No these shoes are killing me, I can change them while we’re there’ you replied and that seemed enough for him.
The house wasn’t far away and it was a nice night so you suggested walking, only making it two streets before your shoes became unbearable and Mason noticed straight away.
‘Shall we just get a cab?’ He laughed, pulling his phone out before you even answered but you were grateful for his suggestion. Popping yourself down on the wall next to the pavement so you take them off and the sympathetic smile he was giving you made your heart melt.
‘I’m wearing flats the rest of this week’ you huffed, looking up to find Mason taking a picture of you but he just shrugged when you raised your brow at him.
‘You look cute tonight’ he winked, popping his phone back in his pocket before taking a seat next to you and you knew you were blushing. ‘Cab shouldn’t be much longer’
‘Thanks’ you nodded, pulling your phone out and taking a picture of him unaware and when the flash made him look up you sent him a wink. ‘What? You look cute tonight’
‘Very funny’ he rolled his eyes, before holding his hand out for you to take. Pulling you flush into his side so he could wrap his arm around you. ‘Can I ask you something? About this morning?’
‘Of course, what’s up?’ You asked, unsure of what he wanted to talk about but he seemed a little shy about it.
‘Are you okay? You know after this morning when you were a bit upset? I know you said you needed a nap but I just wanted to make sure you’re fine’ he explained, your heart melting at his concern for you but you knew you’d have to be honest with him now. ‘I know I keep saying it but it really is fine if you don’t wanna carry on-‘
‘No mase, that wasn’t it’ you laughed, resting your hand on his thigh and he smiled at the gesture.
‘What was it then? You can tell me, even if it was me. I just want you to be comfortable with everything’
‘I am, I promise. I just… you said something last night and I couldn’t stop overthinking it but I realised earlier I was being silly and it’s fine. You’ve done nothing Mase, I promise’
‘What did I say?’
‘I’m gonna sound ridiculous’
‘That’s okay, you normally do but I’ve learnt to just go with it’ he joked and you playfully scoffed as he tickled your side.
‘Thanks Mase’
‘I’m kidding, please tell me’
‘Last night, you said you like to keep your customers happy. I don’t know it just felt weird being referred to as a customer of yours and I know that makes no sense but-‘
‘No, it does. Sorry I shouldn't have said that I was just trying to be funny’ he told you, rolling his eyes. ‘I’m sorry Muffin, I didn’t mean anything by it’
‘I know you didn’t, and I didn’t mean to have a strop, like I felt awful for how I spoke to you’
‘Let’s just forget about it yeah’ he laughed, placing a kiss to your forehead but wished he’d kissed somewhere else. ‘But if I say something stupid again just tell me’
‘I will’ you laughed, squeezing his thigh gently. ‘And if I have a strop again please just ignore me’
‘I’ll try. You’re pretty hard to ignore though, Muffin. Especially dressed like this’
You didn’t have time to say anything else, the taxi pulling up and you both jumped in the back seat so you could take the short journey back and before long Mason was carrying you on his back up to the door.
‘I’ll call the people, you change your shoes and we’ll head back, sound good?’
‘Yes sir’ you winked, watching his eyes nearly rolling back in his head at your words.
‘Fuck, don’t do that’ he groaned, laughing as you ran away from him before he could reach for you but the growl that left his lips gave you butterflies.
‘Behave, Mason’ you told him, trying to give him a cheeky smirk. ‘Go sort the alarm and I’ll meet you in a sec like we promised’
You were just pulling on your left shoe when Mason knocked on your open door, turning to find him leaning against the frame with a sweet smile on his face
‘Alarms off’
‘Perfect, I’m good to go now too’
‘You want me to get us a cab back?’
You didn’t have a chance to reply, your phone ringing as you walked out into the hallway to stand by him and as you took it out of your bag you saw Carly calling.
‘Hey, you alright? We’re just leaving now’
‘Yeah good, don't worry about coming back if you don’t want to. Woody is feeling a little fragile so him and Kayla are heading back and we’ll follow shortly. The boys just want to finish their drinks so give us about 40/45 minutes and we’ll be back’
‘Oh okay’ you breathed, looking up at Mason's confused face but the fact you now had some alone time made you smile, much to his confusion. ‘In that case, I think I’m gonna have a shower and head straight to bed then but I’ll see you tomorrow yeah?’
‘Yeah I think we’ll all do the same’ she replied and after a quick goodbye you popped your phone back in your bag before wrapping your arms around Mason's neck.
‘Woodys not well. He’s on the way back with Kayla but we’ve got about 40 minutes until the others get back’
‘Oh really?’ He smiled, wrapping his arms around your waist as he backed you up against the doorframe to your room. ‘You know now that we’re here, we could use this time to our advantage’
‘Oh yeah?’ You teased, running your fingers through the back of his hair as his face got dangerously close to yours. ‘You know I was thinking of taking a shower’
‘Funnily enough so was i’
‘Maybe we could share one? Save water and all that’ you offered, causing him to squeeze your sides playfully.
‘You’re a very smart woman you know’ he winked but he didn’t give you a chance to reply, kissing you with a moan as he tried to back you into your room, kicking the door shut behind him so he could press you up against it. ‘God I hate this no kissing rule. I’ve wanted to do that all day’ he confessed, whispering his words against your neck before pushing himself off of you slightly. ‘Wanted to take this off you all night too’ he mumbled, reaching for your skirt and not caring to look at how to undo it, so you pushed him off with a laugh so you could get it off without ripping it.
‘Well calm down, this was expensive’ you laughed, blushing from his words and how needed he seemed for you but you were just as needy for him too so you carefully unzipped the back and pulled it off before doing the same with the top. Thanking your lucky stars that you remembered to put one of your new underwear sets on and you could see him practically drooling at the sight of you in your strapless lacy set.
‘You’re the biggest tease I’ve ever met in my life’ he breathed, pulling you into his still fully dressed frame and as you let out a little giggle he captured your lips again in a hungry kiss. Feeling his hands dip into the top of your underwear and grip you bum tightly as you moaned into his mouth and you swore you could have stayed there kissing him forever but you didn’t want to wait any longer for him. Reaching to the collar of his shirt so you could start undoing the buttons before trailing your fingers up his body and under the shoulders so you could push it off of him. Feeling him shiver under your touch but he just pulled you closer afterwards so he could feel your warm skin on his.
You were frantic, pulling away from him so you could focus on unbuttoning his trousers but he didn’t seem to want his lips to part from you. Kissing all over your neck and shoulders as you finally pushed them down his hips and to the floor before he hugged your thighs and threw you over his shoulder so he could take you into the bathroom and you squealed as he lifted you. Holding onto him wherever you could before he popped you down and shut the door behind him. Making sure to lock it just in case someone came in on the off chance.
The pair of you quickly rid yourselves of your underwear and walked behind the glass. Giggling like kids as you took each other in your arms so you could pick up where you left off outside the bathroom before Mason broke away, fiddling with the shower panel to make it come on so you used this time to kiss over his chest. Sneakily leaving a little love bite by his nipple before you felt his fingers thread through the back of your hair so he could tug you away and his dark eyes made your knees weak as he tutted softly.
‘Thats naughty’ he whispered, lips attaching to your jaw so he could kiss along up to your ear. ‘Turn around for me’
You did as he asked, turning away from him and walking towards the shower wall as he held your back and walked with you. Propping your hands on the shower wall as he pressed you right up against it, your head turning to the side so you could just about see him over your shoulder before his lips came to your ear.
‘Good girl, that’s it’ he mumbled, placing his knee between your thighs so he could inch them apart. One hand gripping your bum and the other grabbed hold of himself so he could guide himself in. ‘You ready for me?’
‘P-please Masey’ you breathed, hearing him groan one final time before he pushed himself in gently. Knowing there wasn’t much foreplay involved so he needed to take his time but the stretch of him felt delicious. Moaning louder than you’d intended to but the slow movement of his hips were speeding up by the second until he was pounding into you. Your back pressed firmly against his front as he laid some of his weight on you whilst his hands reached round to grab your chest. Slowly kneading your flesh before you felt his teeth ever so slightly sink into your shoulder.
‘M-Mase, fuck that’s so good’ you panted, wanting to grip onto something more tangible as you fingers were slipping on the wet shower walls so you reached behind you to grab onto him and the feeling of your hand on his lower back made him plough into you even harder.
‘Arch your back for me, Muffin’ he asked, pulling your hips away from the wall and with him a step, forcing you to stick your bum even higher in the air before his hand came to hold your waist so he could control you a bit more. ‘That's it’
‘Mase’ you whimpered, this new angle hitting even better. Feeling your knees almost give out but his strong grip was holding you up as he used your body how he wished.
‘You can take it, I know you can’ he panted, the sounds of skin slapping in skin making your brain go foggy but you knew you’d never felt like this before. ‘God you feel so fucking good’
You had no idea Mason had the power to be like this with you, to be rough with his touches yet make you tingle with his praise. You wanted to be good for him, to take what he wanted to give you and make him feel good too and from the way he was moaning and groaning behind you you had a feeling he was enjoying it just as much.
You were close, closer than you wanted to be as you were enjoying this far too much and he must have felt it as he slowed down ever so slightly before pulling out of you and spinning you so your back now pressed against the tiles.
Your eyes followed his every move, letting him hook your leg over his arm so you were more easily accessible before he was pushing back into you. Your hands settling on his shoulders so you could support yourself as his free hand held your waist.
He was taking things much slower this way round. Gently rocking himself in and out of you but you weren’t sure if this pace was better or worse for you as you felt your high build once more.
‘You’re doing so good, I can feel you wanna cum though so just let go for me okay?’
‘Okay’ you whispered, letting him pick his speed up again and it didn’t take much more for you to be tipped over the edge. Moaning his name as he still went at you relentlessly until you felt his hips stutter, a string of curse words falling from his lips before he slumped against you slightly so you could both get your breath back.
‘Was I too much? I was still thinking about you calling me sir just before and I think I just went a little crazy’ he laughed in your ear, pulling out of you with a hiss so he could pull you straight into his arms and under the running water. Your heart thumping at his sweet gesture.
‘No mase, I liked it’ you laughed, holding him around his waist as he did the same to you and you couldn’t help but mirror his shy smile.
‘As long as you’re sure?’
‘Positive’ you winked before he pressed a sweet kiss to your forehead.
You didn’t spend long in there, quickly getting washed and out before meeting Mason in the main part of the bathroom where he was sitting on the closed lid of your loo. Beckoning you over to come and stand in between his legs but as soon as your hands made contact with his skin you knew something was off.
‘Mase, your shoulders look a bit pink’ you told him. His skin feeling hot to the touch and he slightly winced as you stroked his skin.
‘Yeah they feel a little weird I think I’m a bit burnt’
‘Stay there, I’ll put some after sun on for you’ you told him. Reaching for the bottle on the side so you could apply it but you felt bad as soon as he flinched when the cold cream hit his skin so you rubbed it in as soon as possible. Feeling his muscles relax under your fingers as you massaged him slightly before he looked up at you with his big brown eyes.
‘What’s all that stuff up there?’ He asked, nodding to the shelf under your mirror and you smiled when you caught onto what he was referring to.
‘My skincare’
‘Why do you have so much?’
‘We weren’t all blessed with clear and baby soft skin like you unfortunately’ you teased, tapping the end of his nose lightly which caused him to blush. ‘Would you like to try some?’
‘Okay’ he whispered, watching you with curious eyes as you applied various creams and serums to his face. His hands holding the backs of your legs the whole time and when you were done you pressed a light kiss to the end of his nose without even thinking.
‘All done’ you smiled, taking a step back to you could reach for the after sun and start to apply it to yourself but he took it from your hand and stood behind you. Massaging it into your shoulders as you caught eyes in the mirror in front of you.
‘Do you think we need to tone it down a bit?’ You asked, picking up your cleanser so you could start on your own skincare. ‘I don’t want anyone to suspect anything and I’m pretty sure Dec’s picking up on some vibes’
‘I’ll tell him to back off, don’t worry’ he laughed, hands smoothing over your skin still even though the after sun was all rubbed in. ‘Plus if we go too far the other way they’ll be suspicious too’
‘I guess you’re right’ you shrugged, Turing in his arms after applying the last of your moisturiser before covering your face with your hands so he didn't see you yawn.
‘Aww is my little Muffin sleepy’ he teased
‘It’s been a long day’ you defended with a light laugh so hand in hand he walked you to your bedroom door and with a quick kiss to your forehead he walked across the hallway to his room opposite.
‘Oh wait’ he suddenly called, just over the threshold of his room and by the time you looked up he’d removed the towel from his body and was standing there completely naked. ‘You can have this back’ he laughed, throwing it in your direction and thankfully it landed on your head so you couldn’t see him anymore but you heard the door click and the sounds of his muffled laughter ringing through the halls.
y/n
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liked by masonmount, laurenfryer_, woody_ and others
y/n yellow to make the boys say hello 💛
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declanrice yeah right you wouldn’t leave our side let alone say hello to anyone. I know your game
y/n wow sorry for wanting to spend time with my friends 🙄 won’t bother next time
laurenfryer_ don’t listen to him girl 😩 we’ve got the whole week to find you a man 😉
masonmount who’s that handsome devil in the last picture?
y/n no idea, I don’t see one
benchilwell I don’t either
woody_ neither do I
masonmount ☹️
okaylaaa girly you look delectable 🤭 like a little lemon cupcake I’m living
y/n SAYS YOU 🥹 you’re actually the cutest
conorgallagher92 Mason I think that shirts a little too big mate
masonmount it’s called fashion
y/n if you say so
conorgallagher92 good to see you in blue 😉
carlywlms_ my beautiful bestie 🥹 so excited for our week together like you don’t understand 🩷
y/n trust me I think I might be more excited than you 😭
masonsprivate hello
y/n 👋🏻🙊
Tagged: @footiehoemcfc @prideofpd @yoursselo @chelseachilly @willow-writer-ivy @mm-vii @katharinanadiaa @mmountseb @carlottawllms @saltyheartnightmare @masonmtxo @harvestmount @chillymountsjess @treblebluesblog @pulisicsgirl @bluesswift @feelinglikeineedlotsofnaps
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lvnleah · 1 month ago
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joys of growing up.
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find the series masterlist here!
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September 2030 | 6 & 2 years old 
“Do you think Els will be okay tomorrow?” Leah asked you with a sigh as she slipped her hand underneath your shirt. “I never worried this much about Finn but Els is so attached to both of us.”
You smiled as you finished washing the dishes, “Le baby, I’m sure she’ll be fine. It’s her first day of pre-school and it’s only a few hours.”
Leah leaned her chin on your shoulder,  "I know, but it feels different this time. She's still so little. She’s only two, Finley was three."
You dried your hands, turning to face her. "I get it. It's a big step, for all of us. But we went through this with Finn, and look at him now. He loves school."
Leah chuckled softly, her thumb tracing gentle circles on your hips. "Yeah, but Finn was always more independent. Ellie…she’s our little shadow. She hates being away from us, she can just about stay at my mum's without crying.”
You turned around and kissed her forehead, pulling her close. "I know, I’m worried too but we can’t keep her with us forever, Le. She’ll be okay.”
Leah smiled but her eyes still carried a look of worry. "I hope you're right. It’s just… the thought of her being somewhere without us, even for a few hours."
"You know," you said softly, "I bet by the time we pick her up, she’ll be talking nonstop about all the new things she did. And if it’s too much for her, we’ll figure it out, together."
Leah nodded, leaning into you for a moment before pulling away to stretch. "You're right. We’ll take it one day at a time." She grinned at you. "But just so you know, you’re on snack duty for the first week. I have no clue what to take for her afterwards."
You laughed, “Deal. I’ve got some ideas to make her first days sweet.”
The next morning arrived all too quickly. You and Leah stood in the kitchen, your head cuddled into Leah’s chest as she wrapped her arms around you and leaned against the kitchen side. Finley was already up and dressed, excited about seeing all of his friends. 
Ellie, on the other hand, was not as enthusiastic. She’d been a grumpball ever since you’d woken her up earlier than usual. You’d just finished breakfast and asked her to go to her bedroom and grab her backpack. 
From the bedroom, you heard her whimpering before she even came out. Leah sighed, “Here we go."
Ellie shuffled out, clutching her stuffed bunny tightly and her backpack. Her eyes were red and puffy from crying. "I don’ wanna go," she sniffled, her tiny voice wobbling with emotion.
You crouched down to her level, reaching out to gently smooth her wild morning hair. "Els, baby, it’s just for a little while. Then Mumma and I will come get you!”
She shook her head furiously, tears already welling up in her eyes. "No! I don’ wanna! I wanna stay with ’ou!" Her lower lip trembled as she clung even tighter to her bunny.
Leah knelt beside you, her face soft with understanding. "I know it feels scary, bubba girl. But school is going to be fun. You’ll get to play with toys, paint, and make new friends!”
Ellie ran into Leah’s arms and buried her face into Leah’s chest, her small body trembling with sobs. "I don’ want friends! I want ‘ou and Mummy!" Her words came out muffled, but the heartbreak in her voice was clear.
Leah rubbed soothing circles on her back before standing up with her in her arms. "We don’t have to rush this," she whispered to you, “Maybe we should wait a while.”
You bit your lip. "Let’s try today, just for a few hours. If it’s too much, we can talk to her teachers about easing her in."
Finley, who had been watching quietly, stepped forward and patted Ellie’s leg before Leah knelt down. "Hey, Els, it’s not so bad, I promise." He leaned in, placing a kiss on her temple. "You’ll have so much fun! Then you can tell me all about your day like I do with mine!”
Ellie peeked out from Leah’s chest. "No… I don’ wanna go."
Leah sighed softly, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. "Why don’t we get dressed first, okay? You can wear your favourite dress and bring Bunny with you!”
Ellie nodded reluctantly, though it was clear she was far from convinced. You exchanged a knowing glance with Leah as you helped your daughter get ready, both of you preparing yourselves for a tough morning ahead.
When it was time to leave, Ellie was still clinging to you, her small hand wrapped tightly around your finger. Finley skipped ahead, holding his backpack, while Leah held Ellie’s other hand. 
“Finley, don’t forget your lunchbox!” You called out, glancing over your shoulder as you tried to wrestle Ellie into her tiny pink coat.
Finley gave you a thumbs-up. “Got it, Mummy!” He said, ”I’m ready to go!”
Ellie, on the other hand, wasn’t. She stood in the middle of the living room, her small arms crossed defiantly. “I not going, Mummy,” she declared, her voice rising in protest.
Leah knelt down beside her. “Eloise don’t raise your voice to Mummy okay? That's not nice. You’ll have fun, I promise,” she said, trying her best to sound encouraging. 
“Sorry Mumma. No fun,” Ellie replied, her face scrunched up in a pout. 
“Let’s just get Finley to school first,” Leah suggested, and you nodded in agreement.
You gathered the kids up in the car before heading to Finley’s school. You said your goodbyes to him and he walked straight in with no fuss with his friends. 
Leah then drove to the preschool and as you approached, Ellie slowed her steps, her face scrunching up as she realised where you were headed. "No! I don’ wanna go in!" she cried, tugging at your hand in desperation.
You knelt down, pulling her into a hug. "Just for a little bit, Els. We’ll stay with you until you’re ready, okay?"
Ellie sobbed into your shoulder, her small body trembling. Leah bent down beside you, rubbing Ellie’s back gently. "We’ll be right outside, Bubba girl. And if it gets too scary, we’ll come get you."
The door to the preschool opened, and a kind-looking teacher stepped out with a welcoming smile. "Hi, you must be Ellie! We’ve got some toys inside and a story ready to read. Do you want to say bye to your mums and come with me?
Ellie peeked over your shoulder, her tears still flowing but her curiosity piqued just enough to look.
You whispered in her ear, “Let’s take a little peek inside together, okay? And if you don’t like it, we’ll come right back out.”
She sniffled and nodded hesitantly, still holding tightly to you and Leah as you both guided her toward the door. As soon as her little eyes saw the classroom, she bursted out crying once again and this time clung to Leah’s legs. 
Leah crouched down and scooped Ellie into her arms, "Shh, it’s okay, Bubba. We’re right here."
The teacher approached gently, bending down to Ellie’s level. “I know it’s scary, but you can bring your bunny with you, and if you want, we can sit together and draw. Do you like to draw?”
Ellie looked at her, still crying but slightly intrigued by the mention of drawing. Leah rubbed her back soothingly, "You love drawing, don’t you, Els? Why don’t you try it for a little while? Mummy and I will be back soon, just like we always are. You could draw something for Finn!”
Ellie slowly nodded as she clutched her bunny tighter. Her eyes darted between you and Leah, her little face still wet with tears. "You back soon? Promise?"
You knelt beside them both, brushing a stray tear from Ellie’s cheek. "We promise, baby. We’ll be back before you even have time to miss us."
Ellie hesitated for a moment, then slowly nodded. Leah gently handed her over to the teacher, who smiled warmly as she took Ellie’s small hand. "Come on, Ellie. Let’s go see what we can draw together! You can tell me all about your big brother and what you want to draw!”
As Ellie walked inside, her hand still clutching Bunny, she glanced back at you and Leah one last time, her expression a mix of fear and trust. You both waved, forcing reassuring smiles despite the heaviness in your hearts.
Once she was sat down, you and Leah quickly made your way outside before Ellie could change her mind. "That was harder than I thought it would be." Leah sighed. 
You wrapped your arms around her, pulling her close. "I know, I feel bad for leaving her!”
Leah nodded against your shoulder, "I just hope she’s okay in there. I hate leaving her like that."
"We’ll keep an eye on the time," you said softly. "If she’s really struggling, we’ll come back early. But she needs this.”
Leah pulled back slightly, "You’re right. What the hell do we do now with no kids?”
You laughed, brushing a kiss against her forehead. "No clue, we ain’t been kid-free in six years.”
Leah chuckled softly as you made your way to the car, "Feels weird, don’t it? Like we’re missing something.”
You smiled. "Definitely. I half expect Ellie to shout for me or you any second.”
Leah let out a long breath, squeezing your hand. "Maybe we should go grab some breakfast? Distract ourselves a little?"
You nodded, glancing at your watch. "Yeah, we’ve got a couple of hours. Let’s make the most of it."
The two of you drove to a nearby café, the air feeling lighter without the usual chaos of the kids. Sitting down at a small table by the window, you ordered coffee and breakfast, though the conversation kept circling back to Ellie.
"Do you think she's stopped crying?" Leah asked absentmindedly.
You took a sip of your tea before answering, "I hope so. But it’s her first day— it might take a little while."
Leah sighed. "She’s so sensitive, so different from Finn. He just took everything in stride. But Els…she feels everything so deeply."
You reached across the table, taking her hand. "She’ll find her way, just like Finn did. And we’ll be right there to help her if she needs us."
Leah smiled at that, her thumb brushing over your knuckles. "We always are. I just hate seeing her so upset."
"I know," you said softly. "But it’s part of growing up, for her and us. It’s hard, but we’ll get through it."
Leah nodded, her gaze drifting out the window as the sun started to break through the clouds. "You’re right. Maybe by the time we pick her up, she’ll be telling us about the new friends she made or the pictures she drew."
You smiled, imagining Ellie’s little face lighting up as she shared her stories. "I bet she will. And if not, well, we’ll try again tomorrow."
Leah squeezed your hand. "Yeah. One day at a time."
“It feels so silent without the kids.” You laughed, “I keep panicking that I've lost them.”
Leah smiled, “Maybe we should have another bubba.”
You stared at Leah, momentarily caught off guard by her suggestion. "Another baby?" you repeated, your voice soft with surprise. “I don’t think I can handle pregnancy again, Le.”
Leah laughed, but there was a trace of seriousness in her eyes. "Yeah... I mean, I know we’re just now sending Ellie to preschool, but..." She paused, a slight smile tugging at her lips. "I don’t know, maybe it’s the silence today, or maybe I just miss having a little one around."
You couldn’t help but chuckle, leaning back in your chair as you processed her words. "Are you sure you're ready to go through all of that again? The sleepless nights, the diapers, the crying?"
Leah’s eyes sparkled as she shrugged. "Well, we survived it with Finn and Ellie. Plus, we make a pretty good team. I’m more than happy to carry.”
You bit your lip, a warm feeling blooming in your chest. "It sounds kinda nice when you put it like that." You met Leah’s gaze, both of you grinning now. "It's not like we’re in a rush to decide anything today. If you’re ready to carry then I think it’ll work.”
Leah nodded thoughtfully. "No, we’re not in a rush. But it’s something to think about. Maybe... just maybe, we’ll have another little one to chase around the house soon enough." 
You smiled, feeling that familiar mixture of excitement and uncertainty. "It’s definitely something to think about."
Leah leaned forward, her eyes softening as she kissed the back of your hand. "Whatever we decide, we’ll figure it out. Just like always."
You couldn’t help but laugh again, the tension easing between you both. "So, breakfast first... and then maybe we’ll start making plans for another little Bubba?"
Leah winked at you, her grin playful. "Sounds like a plan to me."
As you finished your breakfast, the thought of having a little quiet time together felt both strange and comforting. For once, the house wouldn’t be filled with the usual noise, and you both could steal a few rare moments of peace before diving back into the whirlwind of parenting. 
But as you walked back to the car, you couldn’t help but feel a tug in your chest, wondering how Ellie was doing, hoping she was adjusting to her new world, one step at a time.
The hours seemed to crawl by, even though you and Leah tried to make the most of your rare kid-free morning. As the time to pick up Ellie finally arrived, you both drove to the preschool, both of you still worried about Ellie. 
Leah glanced over at you as you pulled into the parking lot. “Think she made it through without too much trouble?”
You shrugged, giving her a small smile. “Guess we’ll find out soon enough.”
The two of you walked up to the door, hand in hand. As soon as Ellie spotted you from across the room, her face lit up, and she came running over with Bunny in one hand and a crumpled piece of paper in the other.
“Mummy! Mumma!” she called out excitedly, her earlier tears long forgotten.
Leah knelt and scooped her up into her arms. “Hey, Bubba girl! Look at you! How was your first day?”
Ellie smiled brightly, her cheeks flushed with excitement. “It was fun! I played wiv toys and drawed a picture!” She held up the paper for you to see, a colourful scribble of what looked like her, you, Leah, and Finley. “Dis is us!”
You crouched beside them, admiring her artwork. “Wow, it’s beautiful, Els. Did you have fun with your new friends?”
Ellie’s smile widened as she nodded eagerly, but then her face turned serious for a moment. “But Mummy, my most favourite part…” She paused dramatically, looking between you and Leah.
Leah raised an eyebrow, curious. “What was your favourite part, bubba?”
Ellie leaned in close, her voice dropping to a whisper, “It was crying.”
You blinked, sharing a surprised glance with Leah. “Crying?”
Ellie nodded enthusiastically. “Uh-huh! I cried and cried ‘cause I missed you. I hate it here!”
Leah looked at you, eyes wide with confusion. “You cried a lot?”
Ellie nodded, completely earnest. “Lots!”
Just then, Ellie’s teacher walked over with a smile. “Well, I have to say, Ellie did so well today! No tears at all after you left. She was a little quiet at first, but once we started playing and drawing, she settled right in.”
You and Leah exchanged incredulous looks before Leah burst out laughing. “Els, you didn’t cry at all?”
Ellie frowned, looking confused. “But I wanted to cry…”
You couldn’t help but laugh too, pulling her into a hug. “You’re so funny, Els. I’m so proud of you for being brave!”
Ellie looked paused for a moment. “Well... next time I cry, okay?”
Leah kissed her cheek, still grinning. “You can cry if you need to, bubba girl. But we’re so glad you had fun!”
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bloodibambiidoll · 1 year ago
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Purple Houses and Paranorman
(Single!Dad Eddie Munson x Single!Mom Reader)
Summary: Eddie asks you and Oliver to go to a special screening of Paranorman with him and Charlotte. WK: 3.9K
Series Masterlist My Masterlist
Warnings: Basically none, modern AU, mention of a dead family member (readers aunt), There’s like one second where Eddie is checking reader out and his thoughts get a little carried away, readers son has a speech delay, reader is implied to be alternative and have tattoos but I don’t talk about it much besides her outfits, fluff fluff and moreee fluff. But as always my blog is 18+MNDI
A/N: So I might have gotten a tiny bit carried away talking about the house, it wasn’t something I originally planned out but it kind of just came to me as I was writing, I’d like for them to all live there together eventually. I’m trying to make it a lil slow burn but I suck at that so hard so we will see how much longer I can go without making them kiss LOL. Also I said these were blurbs and this is almost 4K sooo Oopsie. As always my requests for these guys are open and feedback is greatly appreciated.💜💚
Your phone vibrated and the screen lit up, the contact reading “Eddie🎸🦇” you smiled to yourself before pushing the green accept button.
“Helloooo Edward, what can I do for you on this fine autumn morning?”
“Hey weirdo” He let out a laugh, one you’ve grown to find comfort in over these last few weeks. “What are you and Oli up to today? The theater is doing a special showing of Paranorman and I was wondering if you guys would wanna go with us later?”
“What’s in it for me?” You joked.
“Ummm you get to spend time with your bestfriend and do something Halloween related, which I know you love.”
“Bold of you to assume you’re my bestfriend.” You laughed, knowing he definitely had become the best friend you have but still wanting to fuck with him a little.
“Me? I’m talking about Charlotte, you are her new self proclaimed bestfriend and also you do her hair better than me, apparently. Can’t believe my own daughter likes you more than me.” He sighed dramatically and you could practically see him faux fainting.
“Awww I love her, she’s my new bestfriend too. Verdict is still out on her dad though.”
“WOW I can’t believe you would betray me like this, I thought you loved me.”
“Don’t worry, you’re better at playing monster than me apparently sooo I think we are even. What time do you want to go?”
“I guess we can call it even, for now. How about around two? Gives us a few hours to get the goblins fed and ready to go.”
Jokingly teasing each other had become the norm for you and Eddie, easily falling into flirty banter since the day you met.
“Okay, perfect.”
“Want to meet us there? Or I can come get you guys and we can ride together.”
Something you had noticed about Eddie is how perceptive he was. He picked up early on that you’d avoid going places you’d have to drive especially if you’d never been there before, which in those first few weeks was essentially everywhere. So he always offered to pick you and Oliver up whenever you all did something together.
“Could you pick us up? If that’s okay.”
“I wouldn’t have offered it if it wasn’t okay, babe.” Babe, was something he only started calling you recently but it made you giddy every time.
He was also constantly reassuring you that he didn’t mind helping you when you needed it. He knows how hard it is to do this alone so he was always offering to do anything to make things easier on you. Even if it was something as small as picking you and your son up for a movie. At first you declined his help every chance he offered, used to doing things alone, not wanting to burden him. But he’s told you over and over how he doesn’t mind, that it makes him happy to be able to help you.
So who could blame you if you had developed a not so small crush on him? You tried not to, but he was all kind gestures, big brown eyes and chunky jewelry. So how could you not? It’s not your fault it was like he was your dream come to life. You weren’t positive but you were pretty sure he felt the same. Hugs started lingering just a little longer than they should have, hands started brushing when you followed behind your rowdy children on evening walks, the cute little pet names he would always call you that made your stomach flip, the kisses on the cheek you had started giving each other.
So after you got Oli ready you gave him his tablet and spent a little extra time getting ready. You did your hair in your favorite style and added just a tiny bit more makeup than usual, both turned out perfect. But now you were standing in front of your open closet, staring at it like the perfect outfit was just going to jump out at you.
The October chill had set in throughout Hawkins, the days still sunny but the breeze cold, not quite bone chilling like in mid December, but cold enough that you needed some layers. You were also going to be sitting in a movie seat for two hours even if they were the reclining ones you didn’t want to spend that amount of time sitting in jeans.
After trying on several outfits, you ended up deciding on a black long sleeve skater dress, the neckline scooped just enough to make your boobs look nice. You layered some thigh high socks and leg warmers before pulling on your boots. You grabbed a plain zip-up just in case you got cold in the theater and gave yourself a once over in the mirror.
You couldn’t deny the fact that you looked good, and you hoped Eddie would think so too. He had never seen you this dolled up, usually wearing more comfortable clothes and simpler make-up.
You felt butterflies erupt in your stomach, a mixture of emotions going through you. Excitement to see Eddie was in the forefront, but the nervousness was lingering in the background. Are you reading things wrong? Is it smart to get involved with someone that your son has already started to form an attachment to? You took a deep breath, checking your hair one last time before shaking your head as if it would erase those feelings like an etch-a-sketch, willing yourself to enjoy something for once.
When you decided you were as ready as you’d ever be you got on Oliver’s shoes and jacket before grabbing your purse and taking him outside on the porch to wait on the swing. You smiled to yourself as you looked at the porch you spent many summers drinking lemonade with your aunt. The various wind chimes that hung moons and stars and zodiac symbols chime in the mid October breeze.
You loved this house, it belonged to your late aunt who left it to you in her will when she died. It was beautiful but eccentric, kind of like your aunt herself. It stuck out among the many suburban style houses in your neighborhood. It was a late 1800s Victorian style home, with beautiful arches and various types of windows, a wrap-around porch, and a beautiful backyard with a garden that your aunt cared for until the day she couldn’t anymore. You and Eddie had planted pumpkins back there with the kids in her honor, she’s the reason you love them so much after all. They were almost ready to be harvested and carved, a Halloween movie on in the background and the smell of pumpkin seeds baking in the oven.
But what really made the house stand out was that your aunt had it painted a deep purple color, the shutters and roof black, matching the porch. The door was black but it had a beautiful stained glass window in the middle of it, depicting the same kind of crescent moon and stars that dangled from the wind chimes. Inside there were four bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living and family room that held a mixture of her old and your new furniture, and your favorite part, the kitchen. It had been updated since the house was built, but still held a vintage feel. Your aunt had the cabinets and drawers all painted the same purple as the outside of the house, wallpaper with those same moons and stars adorned the walls. The only modern thing about it being the fact that she had replaced all the appliances with shiny new ones.
It was a lot of space, too much for just you and Oliver. But you couldn’t bring yourself to sell it, some of your happiest memories were spent here. So you decided you’d take this opportunity and get the fresh start you’ve been needing. You didn’t have much keeping you back home anyways. You and your mom weren’t particularly close but when she found out your aunt left you everything, not just the house, but her money too, she was furious.
Now that you’ve settled you know it was the right choice. Oli started school and despite his struggles with communication he was thriving in class, you got a job at a local diner where you made pretty decent tips, you had this beautiful house, and last but not least you had Eddie and Charlotte.
A large smile stretched across Eddie’s face when he turned down your long driveway and saw you and your son sitting on the porch. He loves your house, he used to drive by it when he would deal to the rich kids in highschool and always admired it. But when you stood up his jaw actually dropped. He had never seen you in a dress before, you always looked beautiful but right now you were fucking radiant.
He got out of his SUV to help you get Oliver’s seat in and you were even more breathtaking up close.
“Wow. You look… wow.” Eddie shamelessly lets his eyes wander your form for a moment, his cheeks turning red when he reaches that little sliver of skin between your socks and your dress.
“Thanks, babe. You’re not so bad yourself, I guess.” You repeated his words from earlier back to him and he cackled.
“Ha ha veeerry funny, brat.” He stuck his tongue out at you.
“Reaaaal mature, nerd.”
“Hi Eddie!” Oli ran over to hug Eddie’s legs and smiled triumphantly, having recently gotten his new friend's name down.
“Hey little dude! How’s a going?” He gave your son a wide smile while he affectionately ruffled his hair.
“Where Char?” He tilted his head to the side, more concerned with where his friend was than answering Eddie’s question.
“She’s in the car buddy, you wanna to say hi to her while I get your seat in?”
He just nodded, grabbing your hand and dragging you around to the other side of the car where Charlotte was, knowing he’s not supposed to walk down the driveway without holding hands.
Eddie couldn’t help but watch you walk away, internally groaning when he saw that same sliver of skin from the back. The dress is long enough to cover your ass, but not by much and he can’t help but imagine flipping the skirt of it up and-
“Eddie? Are you gonna put the seat in the car or are you just gonna stand there and ogle me?”
You couldn’t help but tease him when you turned around and he was just standing there holding the car seat with his mouth hanging open.
“Huh? Oh! Uh, yeah- yeah sorry.” His face turned beat red and he turned his back to put the seat in to try and hide it, but you saw it. At least you know he thinks you look cute, mission accomplished.
Once the kids were all buckled and ready to go you got in the passenger seat and flashed him a smile. He turned towards you and reached under your seat, his leather jacket covered arm going across your thighs where your dress rode up. You tried to act like your heart wasn’t beating a thousand miles a minute whenever you were this close to him, hopefully succeeding.
But Eddie caught the tiniest little squeak that came out of the back of your throat when he first touched you. Feeling satisfied with himself that he had any kind of affect on you because you made him feel like he was in highschool with a crush on a girl he didn’t have a chance with. But you were constantly showing him that maybe he did have a chance with you.
He pulled a bag from under your seat, plopping it in your lap.
“Me and the princess stopped at the dollar store and got your guys’ favorite candy. I figured since the movie theater candy is like crazy expensive we could get the candy before and get popcorn and drinks at the theater.” He said it so casually, like it wasn’t a big deal that he remembered you and your son’s favorite treats. But to you, it was. Every single time you saw him he gave you another reason to fall for him.
“Wow, thank you Eds. That’s really thoughtful of you.” You smiled at him sweetly, the kind of smile that made him feel like he was going to melt into a puddle in the driver's seat.
“Of course Darlin’ anything for my favorite dude and my favorite girl.” He smiled back at you, the kind of smile that reminds you of sunshine that you wanted to bottle up for a rainy day.
He put the car in reverse and of course he had to put his hand on the headrest of the passenger seat while he pulled out. You just wanted to tilt your head up and kiss his wrist where his jacket rode up. You wanted to be close to him so badly, you’ve been trying to find the courage to ask him to hang out, just the two of you but you keep psyching yourself out. You didn’t have anyone to watch Oli anyways and if he wanted that he never hinted at it. Always suggesting things for you to do with the kids. Which you love, having someone think of both of you the way Eddie does is something you’ve never really had. But what you wouldn’t give for just a few hours alone with him, no kids, just being yourselves. But maybe he didn’t want that?
Eddie glanced over at you as he turned onto your street, you were staring out the window, chewing your lip that way you always did when you were thinking hard about something. Usually something that was upsetting you, so he did what any good friend would do and reached across the center counsel to grab your hand.
You whipped your head around at the feeling of his larger hand engulfing yours.
“You okay?” He ran his thumb over the top of it before intertwining your fingers. He had never held your hand before, and you felt your insides grow warm at the feeling. His palm was surprisingly soft against yours, but his fingers were calloused from years of playing guitar and working on cars. The juxtaposition of rough and smooth was more soothing than you ever could’ve imagined.
“Yeah, I’m okay. Just got lost in thought for a second. Thank you for checking on me.”
You smiled at him sweetly, squeezing his hand in yours. Expecting him to let go after he knew you were alright but he just held on tighter. One hand on the wheel, the other in yours, hidden from the kids by the center console.
“DADDYYYYY! I want an icee, a blue oneeee!” Charlotte said in a sing-song voice.
“Okay baby, we can get a blue icee.” Eddie smiled at her in the rearview mirror and she clapped her hands in triumph.
“Oli, do you want an icee?” His eyes moved over to the other side of the backseat as he addressed your son.
“Yuuppp! Blueeee!” He said in the same sing song tone as his friend. He was always parroting her and saying things she said back to her and it warms your heart. He’s come so far with his communication skills since he started school and started spending so much time with Charlotte, you couldn’t be more proud of him.
Eddie held your hand up until he parked the car and took the keys out of the ignition. Squeezing it before placing a quick and sneaky kiss on the back of your hand, giving you one of those goofy smiles you love so much and exiting the car like he didn’t just make a bomb filled with butterflies go off in your stomach.
You got the kids out of their seats and walked into the movie theater, Charlotte and Oliver insisting on being in the middle so they could hold hands too. Eddie showed the guy at the ticket booth the barcode on his phone that had the tickets on it since he insisted on paying for everyone.
“Icee! Icee! Blue!” Oli jumped up and down as he pointed at the machine spinning the different colored slushy ice.
“Yeah baby, I’m gonna get you an Icee.” You chuckled at how cute his excitement was, letting him drag you toward the concession stand with Eddie and Charlotte in tow.
You ordered two small and two large blue Icees and a large popcorn. You go to pull your wallet out of your purse to pay since Eddie bought the tickets but you feel a large hand on yours, pushing it back down.
He already had his card out before you even open your purse, handing it to the woman behind the counter.
“Eddie… you paid for the tickets, it's the least I can do.”
“Nope. My treat.” A triumphant smile spread across his lips and he sent you a wink.
He always did this, paid for you, drove you, brought you little things he saw in the store that reminded him of you or Oli. It’s not like you didn’t have money, your aunt left you plenty of it and you had your job at the diner. But you knew Eddie did well for himself, he had told you some about his childhood, how he grew up with very little and he didn’t want his daughter to ever feel like he did as a kid. So after he finally graduated he and his uncle opened their own mechanic shop. It was fairly successful, their lower prices and more efficient work times drawing in and catering to the less wealthy people of Hawkins.
“Dada I have to go potty!” Charlotte tugged on Eddie’s hand, pouting toward the bathroom sign that was on the way to your designated theater.
“Alright sweets, let’s go potty. Oli and your bestie will go get our seats.”
She shook her head and pouted, looking at you with big round brown eyes, asking without verbalizing, something you’ve became an expert at understanding after having Oliver. Ever since you had all started going on outings together more often she had been asking you to take her to the bathroom. She had hardly ever gone in the girls room, always having to have her dad take her, so after you took her that first time, she always asked.
“Do you want me to take you potty honey?” You smiled at her sweetly, titling your head toward the bathroom.
“Yes! Please! I like going to the girl potty room!”
“Alright little dude, looks like it’s you and me with the snacks and the seats. They have lady business to attend to.” He grabbed the drink carrier from your hand, guiding Oli to walk in front of him into the bright colored double doors that led to dimly lit theater.
You stood outside the stall while Charlotte used the restroom, “standing guard” as she called it.
“Have you ever seen Paranorman before?” You asked her as you helped her wash her hands.
“No but my daddy said it’s a lot like Coraline and I love Coraline so I hope I will like this one too!” She smiled at you in the mirror.
“I’m sure you will, Oli loves it!” You helped her dry her hands before leading her out of the bathroom and into the theater to find the boys.
“Mommmmyyyy! Sit!” Oliver patted the seat on his left, signaling for you to sit down next to him. Charlotte sat to his right and to her right sat Eddie.
You knew you wouldn’t be able to sit by him before you even got here. But he felt like he was a world away with two reclining seats between you, it made you miss the old movie seats, at least then you’d be close enough to reach behind the kids to hold his hand over their heads. You missed his hand in yours the minute he let go, it still felt empty now even as you held the large cup filled with sugary blue slush in your hand.
The movie went as smoothly as it could’ve with two five year olds. You had to shush them both more than a few times and twenty minutes in, Oliver had to go to the bathroom, Eddie took him, he liked going in the boys bathroom just as much as Char liked going in the girls.
When it ended you corralled the kids back into the car, Eddie offering to drive through McDonald’s on the way to your house to get the kids happy meals and they cheered.
The ride was filled with small talk, jokes, and all four of you singing along to different songs on your playlist because Eddie even let you pick the music in his car. He never let anyone pick the music, it didn’t hurt that you had good taste.
When you were a few minutes from your house, just like before Eddie reached over to grab your hand. You took it instantly, intertwining your fingers and looking over at him with a shy smile.
“I had a lot of fun today, thanks for coming with us.” He glanced over at you at a stop sign, his smile sweet and his eyes filled with affection.
“I did too, thank you for inviting us. Next time I’m paying though.” You ran your thumb along his, the soft gesture contradicting the teasing tone in your voice.
“Yeah, we will see about that sweetheart.” He sent you a wink as he turned onto your street, giving your hand one last squeeze before getting out of the car to help you with the seat.
He got Oliver and his seat out of his car, you grabbed your son's hand and he held onto the car seat as he walked you a few feet to your door. He sits the seat down on the porch before turning to Oli and asking him for a high five, he happily obliged, even offering to bump knuckles with him in return.
“I really did have fun today, I love hanging out with you guys, it’s nice… to have someone else to do things with.” Eddie rocked on the balls of his feet with a bashful look on his face.
“It is nice, I’m glad we have you guys. I love spending time with you, both of you.” You were sure the smile on your face was lovesick and dopey but you couldn’t bring it in yourself to care. “The pumpkins are almost ready to harvest, would you guys want to come over and carve them next weekend? We can put a Halloween movie on, make some popcorn, make a whole thing of it.”
“I’d love that, and I’m sure she would too. It’s a date.” His eyes widen as he realizes his choice of words and you can tell he's about to correct himself so you cut him off.
“It’s a date.” You nod, wrapping your arms around his neck to pull him into a hug that he immediately reciprocates, his arms wrapping tightly around your waist, his chin resting on the top of your head. You give him a final squeeze before pulling away and placing a gentle kiss on his cheek.
“Goodnight Eddie, get home safe.”
He was beat red with a flustered look on his face, you had kissed him on the cheek a few times now, but something about this felt different, more intimate.
“Goodnight sweetheart, sleep tight little dude!!” He waved at Oli before giving your forearm a squeeze and walking back towards his car. You sigh as you watch him drive away, knowing you’ll be counting down the days until next weekend.
Taglist: @comic-harley @yujyujj @witchwolflea @ali-r3n @bmunson86 @ineedtosusoutmyreadinglist @sheneedsrocknroll92 @melodymunson
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acute-crashout-jeyuso · 22 days ago
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Sacrifices (Book 2 of 3 BTR Series) a Jhea Fanfic.
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Chapter 26: beginning of swollen feet..
Thursday, March 6th, 2025 – 8:27 PM
“Girl, you really letting this thing ride out, huh?” Trinity teased, sitting cross-legged on the guest bed as she helped Rhea fold the stack of baby onesies laid out between them.
Rhea sat on the floor, her back against the edge of the bed, carefully smoothing out the tiny fabric in her hands. “It hurt me, Trin’,” Rhea muttered, her voice quieter than before. “What he said… it really hurt.”
Trinity sighed softly and set down the onesie she’d been folding. “I understand,” she said gently. “I heard the whole thing. And you know… it’s normal to feel like this, but don’t you miss him?”
Rhea paused, her eyes fixed on the onesie she was holding. “At night, yeah,” she admitted after a long silence. “Sometimes I wanna cave in and let him hold me, just so I can feel okay for a second. But then I squash it and remind myself I’m still mad. We sleep in the same bed, Trin, but fuck man we might as well be on different planets.”
Trinity tilted her head as she studied Rhea, concern clear in her eyes. “That doesn’t sound sustainable, Rhea. You’re not just shutting him out—you’re shutting yourself down, too.”
Rhea pressed her lips into a thin line, her shoulders tensing. “What the hell am I supposed to do? Act like everything’s okay? Like he didn’t make me feel small?”
“I’m not saying that,” Trinity replied, her tone steady. “I’m saying talk to him. For real, this time. You two are having a baby. And I’ve known you long enough to know that when you’re holding onto something this tight, it’s eating you up inside.”
Rhea rubbed her forehead and sighed. “I just… I don’t know if I’m ready to talk to him about it yet.”
Trinity leaned forward, placing a hand on Rhea’s knee. “It’s okay if you’re not ready. But don’t wait too long, Rhea. You know Jey—he’s not perfect, but he loves you. And you love him.”
Rhea didn’t respond right away, her gaze distant as if lost in her own thoughts. “I don’t know what love is supposed to look like anymore, Trin,” she whispered finally.
Trinity gave her knee a soft squeeze. “It looks like two people who keep showing up for each other, even when it’s hard.”
Rhea blinked rapidly, trying to push back the sting of tears. She let out a shaky breath. “I’ll think about it.”
“Good,” Trinity said softly, leaning back and picking up another onesie. “Now, let’s finish folding these before your little thunderstorm comes into this world already dressed to rock.”
Rhea laughed lightly despite herself, a small smile tugging at her lips. “You and Damian really gotta stop calling my kid that.”
“Not a chance,” Trinity grinned. “We’ll let Jey try to win that argument when the baby’s here.”
Jey carefully packaged up the gift he’d bought for Jaciyah, smoothing out the red wrapping paper before setting it on the counter. Across the room, Jon stood on a stepstool, stringing up a black and red “Happy Birthday” banner over the living room entryway.
“Man, this banner better stay up,” Jon muttered, stepping back to admire his work. “I ain’t tryin’ to redo this tomorrow.”
Jey chuckled lightly as he taped down the edges of the gift. “You act like you ain’t used to this. You’ve hung up a million birthday banners for your kids.”
Jon smirked as he stepped off the stool. “Yeah, but I’m gettin’ older now. Banner duty ain’t my thing no more.” He headed toward the kitchen, pausing to shoot Jey a pointed look. “But for real, Uce… Damian’s got a point.”
Jey sighed, his shoulders tensing as he looked up. “Man, can we not? I’m tryin’ to focus on tomorrow.”
Jon ignored him, grabbing packs of meat from the fridge and setting them by the sink. “Nah, I’m just sayin’—you’ve been messin’ up lately. Rhea’s holdin’ it down with the baby and everything else. You lucky she’s still ridin’ with you.”
Jey didn’t answer right away, his focus shifting back to the gift. “I know, man. I don’t need you tellin’ me.”
Jon turned on the water, rinsing the meat. “Well, somebody’s gotta. You can’t just keep lettin’ it slide, Jey. You’re gonna have to step up at some point.”
Jey leaned back against the counter, staring at the ceiling for a moment before muttering, “I am steppin’ up. I’m tryin’, alright?”
Jon glanced over his shoulder, his tone softening. “Tomorrow’s about Jaciyah, though. You gotta make sure he feels like the king of the world for his day, no matter what’s goin’ on with you and Rhea.”
Jey nodded, his voice quieter now. “Yeah… I got it. Tomorrow’s for my boy.”
“Good.” Jon grabbed a knife and a cutting board, starting to prep the ribs. “Now, go make sure the grill’s cleaned out. I don’t want no excuses when it’s time to throw the meat on tomorrow.”
Jey let out a small laugh, shaking his head as he grabbed the tongs from the drawer. “Ain’t nobody gonna outcook me, Uce. I got this.”
Jon smirked as he sprinkled seasoning over the meat. “We’ll see.”
As Jey headed toward the backyard to prep the grill, he let Jon’s words linger in the back of his mind. Tomorrow wasn’t about him or the tension in the house—it was about Jaciyah. His oldest boy deserved a perfect day, and Jey was determined not to let him down. Everything else could wait.
Rhea had just finished showering, her damp hair clinging to her shoulders as she dressed in silence. The tension between her and Jey had become a third presence in the room, unspoken but suffocating. She plugged her phone into the charger and turned off her bedside lamp, climbing into bed without so much as a glance at him.
“Goodnight,” she said softly, her back already turned to him.
Jey stared at her for a long moment, the weight of her coldness pressing on his chest. Finally, he sighed heavily, his frustration bubbling to the surface. “I’m tired of this, Rhea.”
She stiffened but didn’t turn to face him. “Tired of what?”
“This,” he said, his voice rising slightly. “This distance. Us actin’ like strangers in our own house, in our own bed.”
Rhea turned abruptly, sitting up to face him. Her eyes glinted with anger and something deeper—hurt. “What do you want me to do, Jey? Just forget everything you said? Pretend like I didn’t hear it?”
“I never said that!” he shot back, sitting up to meet her glare. “But I can’t fix it if you keep shuttin’ me out!”
Her laugh was bitter, a sharp contrast to the warmth they once shared. “Fix it? Jey, you think you can just fix this with words and gifts? You think that makes it all go away?”
“I’m tryin’, Rhea!” he snapped. “I’m here, ain’t I? I ain’t givin’ up on us, but you gotta meet me halfway!”
Rhea’s voice broke as she responded, her emotions spilling over. “Maybe there is no ‘us’ anymore, Jey! Maybe it’s better if I just raise this baby on my own!”
The room fell silent, her words hitting Jey like a punch to the gut. His eyes widened, his breath catching in his throat. “What?” he whispered, his voice barely audible.
Rhea looked away, tears threatening to fall. “I can’t keep doing this. The hurt, the feeling like I’m not enough. I’m tired, Jey. And maybe it’s just better this way.”
Jey’s heart shattered as he stared at her, his hands trembling. “You’re serious?” he asked, his voice cracking. “You think I’d just let you walk away? Let you raise my baby on your own?”
Rhea’s eyes snapped back to his, her tone sharp. “It’s not your baby, Jey. It’s my baby.”
That was it. The breaking point. Realizing his mistakes for the first time, his jaw clenched and he leaned closer, his voice firm but laced with pain. “You know what? You’re wrong. It ain’t just your baby—it’s our baby, Rhea. Yours and mine.”
Rhea shook her head, tears streaming down her face. “You don’t get it, Jey. You don’t understand how much this hurts.”
“I do,” he said, his voice softening as he reached for her hand, though she pulled away. “I know I messed up, and I’ll regret it every damn day. But I love you, Rhea. I love you and this baby, and I’ll be damned if I let you shut me out.”
Rhea’s lip quivered as she looked at him, her defenses crumbling under the weight of his words. “Jey…”
“I’m not givin’ up on us,” he said firmly, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. “I’ll fight for you, for us, for this family. But you gotta let me in, Rhea. You gotta let me try.”
She covered her face with her hands, sobbing quietly. Jey moved closer, hesitating for a moment before wrapping his arms around her. This time, she didn’t pull away.
“I’m scared, Jey,” she admitted through her tears. “I’m so scared.”
“I know, baby,” he whispered, holding her tightly. “But we’ll get through this. Together. I promise.”
Jey pulled back from the embrace just enough to look into Rhea’s tear-streaked face, his hands cradling her cheeks. His voice was steady, full of conviction. “You’re gonna be my wife someday, Rhea. I’ll be damned if I let you leave like this. We’re gonna be together—through it all—until we’re old and gray. Because my feelings for you never changed. I love you, Rhea.”
Rhea stared at him, her breath hitching as his words sank in. She saw the sincerity in his eyes, the unwavering love he still carried for her despite everything. Her walls crumbled completely. Without thinking, she leaned in, her lips crashing against his in a desperate, passionate kiss.
It wasn’t just a kiss—it was everything. All the pain, the longing, the nights spent apart, the unspoken apologies, and the love that refused to die. She clung to him, her fingers curling into his shirt as if anchoring herself to the one person who had always been her safe haven, even in their darkest moments.
Jey responded just as fervently, his arms wrapping around her, pulling her impossibly closer. The warmth of her lips, the way she melted into him—it was everything he’d been yearning for. He kissed her as if trying to prove every word he’d just said, pouring his heart into each moment their lips met.
When they finally pulled away, both of them were breathless, their foreheads resting against each other. Rhea’s voice was shaky but firm. “I don’t want to do this without you, Jey. I’m just so scared of losing us again.”
“You won’t lose me,” he promised, his thumb brushing against her cheek. “We’ve been through too much, baby. We’ll figure this out. Together.”
Rhea nodded, her tears drying as a small smile broke through. “I love you,” she whispered.
“I love you more,” Jey replied, his lips grazing hers again in a softer, more tender kiss.
For the first time days, the weight on both their shoulders felt lighter. They weren’t fixed—there were still cracks and scars—but they were together, and that was the foundation they needed to start rebuilding.
Friday March 7th, 2025 7:11 AM
The next morning, Jeyce sprinted toward the lamppost at the end of his street, his backpack bouncing on his shoulders. As he reached the familiar spot, he spotted Demi already waiting for him. She was leaning casually against the pole, dressed in her usual edgy style—a black Motionless in White band shirt, snug gray jeans, and a pair of well-worn purple Converse. Her matching purple butterfly lunch bag hung from her shoulder, likely filled with the snacks she always packed for them to share.
When Demi noticed Jeyce approaching, her face lit up with a bright smile. “Took you long enough,” she teased playfully, tucking a strand of her dyed lavender hair behind her ear.
“Blame my dad for that,” Jeyce replied, smirking as he came to a stop in front of her. “He wouldn’t stop giving me that ‘man of the house’ talk again.”
Demi giggled. “Sounds like Jey.”
Without hesitation, the two leaned in for a quick, shy peck on the lips—something they had started doing since officially becoming a couple. Jeyce felt a rush of warmth in his chest, and judging by the blush on Demi’s cheeks, she felt the same.
“Ready for another thrilling day at school?” Jeyce asked sarcastically as the bus came into view.
Demi rolled her eyes. “Totally. Algebra’s just been fhe highlight of my week.”
Jeyce laughed and adjusted his backpack. “Hey, at least we’ll survive together.”
“True.” She grinned, looping her arm through his as the bus pulled to a stop in front of them.
As they boarded, the two settled into their usual seat in the middle of the bus, chatting about anything and everything—school, music, their weekend plans. For Jeyce, these moments with Demi made the school day something to actually look forward to.
Meanwhile, Jey and Rhea stood under the warm spray of the shower, the steam curling around them like a soft veil. It had been days since they shared such a moment of quiet intimacy, and for Jey, it felt like a piece of what they’d been missing had finally returned. He let the water run down his back as his eyes settled on Rhea.
Her fifteen-week bump was more noticeable now, a gentle curve that seemed to reflect the life growing inside her. She stood with her head tilted back, letting the water cascade over her shoulders, her skin glowing in a way that Jey couldn’t help but admire.
“You’re glowing,” he said softly, his voice just loud enough to rise above the sound of the water.
Rhea opened her eyes and gave him a small, tired smile. “I feel huge already,” she said, resting a hand protectively over her belly.
Jey chuckled, shaking his head. “Nah, you look perfect.”
He reached out and gently placed his palm against her belly, feeling the warmth of her skin. His touch was tender, reverent, as if he were connecting not just with Rhea, but with the life they had created together. Without thinking, he leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to her forehead, then another on her lips.
Rhea sighed into the kiss, her hands coming up to rest lightly on his chest. For a moment, everything else—the tension, the arguments, the lingering doubts—seemed to wash away with the water.
“I missed this,” Jey admitted, his voice thick with emotion. “I missed you, baby. I know I’ve said it a hundred times, but I’ll keep saying it until you believe me.”
Rhea looked up at him, her green eyes searching his face. “I’m trying, Jey,” she whispered. “I really am.”
He leaned his forehead against hers, his hand never leaving her belly. “That’s all I ask. Just… don’t give up on me. On us. I need you, Rhea.”
A tear slid down Rhea’s cheek, quickly lost in the spray of the shower. “I won’t,” she promised, her voice trembling.
Jey kissed her again, more deeply this time, pouring every ounce of his love and determination into the gesture. It wasn’t just a kiss—it was a vow, unspoken but deeply felt.
For the first time in days, it felt like they were truly connected again.
Rhea and Jey stepped out of the shower, the warmth of the water still lingering on their skin. Jey walked over to the sink to grab a towel, tossing Rhea one as he met her eyes with a soft smile. She returned it but was already focused on getting dressed.
Rhea took her time, drying off and starting to pull on her black cargo pants. She slipped into her black vintage Jey shirt, the one he’d given her as a joke during a road trip, but now it fit her with a special significance. She slid on her black Vans, but as she stood up to look at herself in the mirror, she noticed they felt a little tighter than usual.
“Ugh,” she muttered under her breath, adjusting her shoes. The pressure on her feet was starting to build. The early signs of swelling had begun, and it only irritated her further. She bent down and rubbed at her feet, trying to ease the discomfort, but there wasn’t much she could do.
Jey, noticing her struggle, walked over with a frown. “You okay?”
Rhea sighed and rolled her eyes. “Yeah, just the beginning of swollen feet. Gonna be a long day.”
Jey chuckled, though the sound was warm and full of concern. “You’re gonna need more comfy shoes soon, huh?”
She gave him a sarcastic smirk. “I swear, you’re the last person I want to hear that from.”
Jey raised an eyebrow and gave her a teasing look. “What? You don’t want your loving fiancé to remind you to take care of yourself?”
Rhea shook her head but couldn’t help the small smile that tugged at her lips. She appreciated the attention, even if it was wrapped in humor.
“Alright, alright, I’ll take it easy today,” she said, giving in. “But only because Jaciyah’s birthday is today and I’m not missing it..”
“Good. We’ve got a whole night planned for him. He deserves a great birthday,” Jey replied, looking over at the time on his phone. “I’ll make sure everything’s ready here. You just focus on him.”
Rhea nodded, her eyes softening as she thought about their son. Despite everything that had happened recently, she wanted to make this day special for Jaciyah. “Thank you,” she said quietly, her voice full of affection.
Jey smiled and leaned in, pressing a quick kiss to her forehead. “Anything for you, baby.”
As they finished getting ready, Rhea still felt the slight ache in her feet but pushed it aside. Today wasn’t about her discomfort—it was about making sure Jaciyah had the best birthday he could have. And for that, she’d give it everything she had.
Despite the discomfort in her swollen feet, Rhea made her way down the stairs with a soft smile on her face. The moment she entered the kitchen, the sight of the yellow cake in the display made her feel a sense of pride. It was the final touch to Jaciyah’s birthday celebration. She pulled out the chocolate frosting and began to carefully cover the cake, her movements slow but deliberate.
Trinity was already downstairs, busy at the counter baking Jaciyah’s favorite—brown butter chocolate chunk cookies. The sweet scent of freshly baked cookies filled the air, making Rhea’s stomach growl despite her discomfort.
“This boy, all he wants is sweets,” Rhea remarked with a laugh, as she spread the frosting evenly on the cake.
Trinity chuckled, shaking her head. “That’s your bonus son for you.”
Rhea smirked, but the smile softened as she looked over at Trinity. “Where is he, actually?” she asked, curious.
“He’s at his job,” Trinity replied. “Went in early so he could leave early. Wanted to get the day started and have some time for himself later.”
Rhea nodded as she finished the last corner of the cake. “Of course, he’s growing up too fast,” she muttered, almost to herself, as she set the frosting knife down.
The kitchen was filled with the sound of cookies being scooped onto a baking sheet. Rhea grabbed her backpack and keys, ready to head out for work.
“I’ll see you guys later when I get off,” Rhea said, throwing Trinity a quick smile.
“Have a good day at work, babes!” Trinity called, her hands busy but her eyes warm as she waved Rhea off.
Rhea smiled as she pulled on her jacket, feeling the warmth of her family around her even as she headed out the door. It wasn’t the easiest of days, but moments like this made everything worth it. She was grateful for the love and support, even if it was just the little things like frosting a birthday cake or baking cookies in the morning.
As she stepped out the door and into her car, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of hope for the day ahead. No matter how challenging things might get, she had her family, and they were always there to help her through it.
10:26 AM
Jeyce grabbed his science book and stuffed it into his locker, glancing at the little details that decorated the inside of the door. His eyes softened at the printed selfie of him and Demi, her wide grin and his shy smile captured perfectly in the picture. Just as he smiled to himself, his phone lit up with a notification.
Before he could check it, a tap on his shoulder pulled his attention. He turned to see Demi standing there, her excitement almost tangible.
“Did you see what I sent you?” she asked, practically bouncing on her toes.
“I just opened my locker,” Jeyce replied with a laugh. “Give me a second!”
“Well, hurry up and look!” she said, nudging him playfully.
Jeyce unlocked his phone and opened her text message. It was a flyer for a Motionless in White listening party tomorrow at CD Master Copy. His brows furrowed until Demi grinned and pointed at the screen.
“Check the bottom! Zoom in!”
Doing as she said, Jeyce squinted at the tiny print at the bottom: “With an appearance from lead vocalist Chris ‘Motionless’ Cerulli.”
“No way,” he muttered, eyes widening.
“Yes way! He decided to make a last minute appearance!” Demi said, her excitement bubbling over. “And guess what? My mom got four tickets! Two for you and Jaciyah, and two for me and Daya!”
Jeyce grinned, his enthusiasm matching hers. “That’s awesome. I can’t believe we’re gonna meet Chris Cerulli in person!”
“I know, right?” Demi said, practically squealing. “We’ll pick you and Jaciyah up tomorrow morning. I was thinking we could grab breakfast first, then head to the store.”
“Sounds perfect,” Jeyce said, sliding his phone into his pocket. He leaned against his locker and smirked. “You always know how to make things fun, huh?”
“That’s kind of my specialty,” Demi said with a playful shrug. She reached for his hand, giving it a quick squeeze before letting go. “Now get to class before you’re late!”
Jeyce laughed, watching her walk away, her purple butterfly lunch bag swinging at her side. Shaking his head with a smile, already looking forward to the weekend ahead.
As Jeyce grabbed his English book, a rough shove sent him slamming into his locker. He turned to see Bart—the flunkie and Demi’s ex. Bart stood there with a smug look, towering over most of the seventh graders in the hall since he’d been held back a year.
“Still wasting your time with Demi?” Bart sneered, loud enough for nearby students to hear. “Guess nobody told you she’s just practicing until she finds someone better.”
Jeyce squared his shoulders, his hands balling into fists. “Back off, Bart.”
Bart laughed, stepping closer. “What’s the matter? Truth hurt? Ask anyone. Before me, Demi was all over Sam last year—said she’d still be with him if his parents didn’t make him switch schools.”
“That’s not true!” Jeyce snapped, his voice rising. He glanced around, noticing a few students stopping to listen.
Bart shrugged, his grin widening. “Oh, it’s true. She’s got a type, you know—whoever’ll fall for her ‘poor me’ act. Thought you were smarter than that, but I guess not.”
Jeyce stepped forward, his jaw tight. “Don’t talk about her like that. You don’t know anything about her.”
Bart’s grin turned into a mocking smirk. “I know enough. Like how she’ll dump you the second someone cooler comes along.” He turned to the crowd that had gathered. “What do you guys think? Should we take bets on how long it’ll take?”
Laughter rippled through the group, and Jeyce’s blood boiled. He could feel the heat rising in his chest. “Shut up, Bart!”
Bart shoved Jeyce’s shoulder. “Or what? You gonna fight me? Demi’s not worth it, dude.”
Jeyce snapped. “She’s worth more than you’ll ever be!” He swung, his fist connecting with Bart’s shoulder.
The hallway exploded into chaos. Bart stumbled back but quickly recovered, tackling Jeyce into the lockers. “You think you’re tough, huh?”
Jeyce struggled against him, shoving him off and throwing another punch that landed on Bart’s jaw. Bart retaliated, grabbing Jeyce’s shirt and yanking him forward.
“Stop it! Leave him alone!”
Jeyce heard Demi’s voice, but it only fueled his anger. He pushed Bart off him, shoving him hard against the lockers. “Keep her name out of your mouth!”
Bart swung again, but Jeyce ducked, grabbing him by the shirt and slamming him back. The crowd around them was yelling, some cheering, others calling for a teacher.
“What is going on here?!”
The booming voice of Mr. Daniels broke through the chaos. The crowd scattered as the teacher stormed forward, pulling Jeyce and Bart apart. “Fighting? In my hallway? Both of you—principal’s office. Now!”
Jeyce was still breathing hard, his shirt wrinkled and his knuckles sore. Bart smirked, rubbing his jaw as they were escorted down the hall.
As they walked, Bart leaned over, his voice low and taunting. “She’s going to ditch you, Jeyce. Just like she ditched me. You’ll see.”
Jeyce didn’t reply, but the fire in his eyes burned brighter. He knew Demi better than anyone, and no lies from Kevin were going to change that.
Meanwhile, Jey, Trinity, and Jon were lounging in the living room, watching The Sopranos. The dim glow of the television cast flickering shadows across the room as the sound of Carmela’s sharp voice filled the space. Barry and Bella, the family’s loyal dogs, lay sprawled out beside Jey on the couch, their tails occasionally thumping when Jey absentmindedly scratched behind their ears.
Trinity was perched on the arm of the recliner where Jon sat, both sipping on glasses of sweet tea and sharing quiet commentary about the show. Jey, however, was half-watching, his phone resting on his thigh as he absentmindedly scrolled through emails.
The quiet was interrupted by the sharp buzz of Jey’s phone. The screen lit up with a familiar number, and he furrowed his brow. “Hold on, y’all,” he muttered, picking up the call.
“Hello?”
“Mr. Fatu, this is Vanessa from the Mead Middle School division,” a crisp, professional voice began on the other end.
Jey sat up straighter, immediately alert. “Uh, yeah, this is him. What’s this about?”
“I’m calling regarding another incident involving Jeyce,” Vanessa said, her tone both apologetic and firm.
Jey rubbed his forehead, already bracing himself. “What happened now?”
“There was an altercation between Jeyce and another student this afternoon,” Vanessa explained. “It appears there was some kind of disagreement that escalated into a physical fight. Both boys have been sent home, and we’ve scheduled a meeting with the principal to discuss disciplinary action. We’d like for you to attend on Monday morning.”
Jey closed his eyes, letting out a heavy sigh. Trinity and Jon had paused the show, both of them watching him with concern.
“Is he okay and my son takes the bus, how is he getting home?” Jey asked, his voice strained but calm.
“Jeyce is fine, though it seems he’s a bit shaken up and we’ve contacted a Demi Bennett, she said she is on her way.” Vanessa replied. “But this is the second incident we’ve had involving him recently, and we’re growing concerned. We’ll need to address this more formally during the meeting.”
Jey clenched his jaw, nodding even though she couldn’t see him. “Alright. Monday morning. What time?”
“Eight o’clock sharp,” Vanessa said. “We’ll see you then, Mr. Fatu.”
“Thanks for the call,” Jey said shortly before hanging up.
He dropped the phone onto the couch beside him and leaned forward, rubbing his temples.
“What’s going on?” Trinity asked, sliding off the recliner and sitting beside him.
“Jeyce got into another fight,” Jey muttered, his frustration evident. “They want me at the school Monday for a meeting.”
Jon let out a low whistle. “Man, that boy��s got fire in him, just like his old man.”
Jey shot him a look, not amused. “Not the time, Jon.”
Trinity rested a hand on Jey’s shoulder. “What was it about?”
“They didn’t say much, just that it was a fight. Second one already…” He let out another sigh, shaking his head. “I swear, he’s been acting up ever since we moved here. I don’t know if it’s the school or something else, but I need to get to the bottom of it.”
Trinity gave him a reassuring squeeze. “You’re doing your best, Jey. He’s a good kid, just going through something. You’ll figure it out.”
Jey didn’t respond immediately, his mind already racing through how he’d approach the situation with Jeyce. Barry nudged his leg, and he reached down to pet the dog absentmindedly, wishing for a moment of peace that felt increasingly out of reach.
Rhea pulled up to Mead Primary School, her frustration mounting as she spotted Jeyce sitting on a bench near the entrance, his head bowed. Beside him stood the secretary, Vanessa, holding a clipboard and wearing an expression of polite concern.
Rhea put the car in park, sighed deeply, and got out. Her vans hit the pavement with a determined stride as she approached the pair.
“Jeyce,” she said sternly, her hands resting on her hips. “What did you do now?”
Jeyce didn’t respond, keeping his eyes fixed on the ground.
Vanessa cleared her throat. “We’ve already contacted Jeyce’s father about the situation, Ms. Bennett.”
“Well, I’m his stepmother,” Rhea replied firmly, crossing her arms. “So what did my son do this time?”
Vanessa adjusted her clipboard. “He was involved in another altercation with a fellow student. It seems this incident escalated into something physical. This is the second time—”
Rhea held up a hand, cutting her off. “On your brother’s birthday, really, Jeyce?” she said, her tone dripping with disbelief as she fixed him with a sharp glare.
Jeyce finally looked up, guilt written across his face. “He was saying stuff about Demi,” he muttered, his voice guilty.
Rhea sighed, crouching down slightly to meet him at eye level. “What kind of stuff?”
“He’s lying about her,” Jeyce said, his tone defensive now. “Saying she flirts with other guys and cheats on me. It’s not true, and I’m not gonna let him talk about her like that.”
Rhea closed her eyes briefly, pinching the bridge of her nose. “And you think throwing punches is the way to fix that?”
Jeyce shrugged, his defiance slipping as guilt crept back in. “I didn’t start it.”
Vanessa chimed in. “Regardless of who started it, Mr. Fatu, the situation needs to be addressed. We’ve scheduled a meeting with the principal on Monday morning to discuss next steps.”
Rhea straightened up and nodded. “Fine. We’ll be there. But for now,” she turned back to Jeyce, “get in the car. Your father will be having a serious talk with you when we get home.”
Jeyce stood up reluctantly, slinging his backpack over his shoulder as he trudged toward the car.
Rhea looked back at Vanessa. “Thanks for letting us know. We’ll handle it.”
Vanessa nodded, her expression sympathetic. “We’ll see you Monday.”
Rhea got back in the car, her fingers gripping the steering wheel tightly as Jeyce sat in silence beside her.
“You’re lucky I came instead of your dad,” she said after a moment. “He told me he is already frustrated about this whole thing. You need to start thinking about the consequences of your actions, Jeyce.”
Jeyce stayed quiet, staring out the window, his jaw tight.
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alexfromjersey · 1 year ago
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𝓣𝓱𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓽𝓼 & 𝓛𝓪𝓼𝓽 𝓓𝓪𝔂𝓼
jenna ortega x g!poc
summary: it's jenna's last day in new york. jah contemplates a career move
warnings: mature language, a male
a/n: imma be honest with y’all….I lost all the creativity for this book. I was struggling to find a path for it but I found one and I hope you guys enjoy it. (Vc: sensei.klx on TikTok)
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THE NEXT DAY
"Our baby is big as a lemon right now. At this stage, our baby's intestines and vocal cords are developing. Tiny bones are also beginning to form in the arms and legs. This is so fascinating" Jenna gushed as she leaned more into your side.
You were currently focused on the intense game of baseball as your feet were propped on your coffee table. The two of you were enjoying each other's company until Jenna had to leave for London to film Beetlejuice 2 later tonight.
"Are we going to have a baby shower?" You asked.
"Yeah just a small one though and a little more into my pregnancy, maybe when I'm around 30 weeks" Jenna answered.
You nodded at your girlfriend. Your attention is then stolen by the Yankees vs. Padres baseball game on the TV. Jenna continued looking at the information the pregnancy app provided on her phone. Suddenly, the buzzer to your apartment goes off. You go to the buzzer, "Who is it?"
"Yuh Mada" Delyse responded. You buzz your mother in and unlock the door so she can come in. You then sat back down next to Jenna. A few minutes later, Del burst into the apartment with multiple bags in her hands.
You sighed, "Ma what is all that?"
"Nothing for you, some of this is for Jenna and...maybe the baby. Anyway, Jenna since you are leaving tonight I packed you a little pregnancy kit. I got you some prenatal vitamins, ginger & peppermint for any nausea you may get, and raspberry leaves for your iron and it can increase milk production if you decide to breastfeed" Del listed off.
Jenna's heart swelled at your mother's thoughtfulness, "Thank you so much Ms. Delyse. I appreciate this."
"Oh sweetie, us mothers have to stick together and watch over one another" Del smiled at the young woman.
"Do I get anything?" You ask.
"You get a non-cranky baby mother" Del replied to you.
You playfully glare at your mother. Del handed Jenna the bag of her stuff and sat opposite the couple. The buzzer to your apartment goes off again. You groan in frustration and confusion about who it could be.
"Who is it?" You asked.
"Davis" Davis answered. You buzzed him in and sat in your spot again. Soon after, Davis walks in with a flyer in his hand.
"Hey, Ms. Del I haven't seen you in a minute. How was Jamaica?" Davis asked.
"Wonderful. I needed that vacation" Del answered.
"I feel that. I need a vacation too. I haven't been on one in months" Davis said and sat in the empty spot next to you and Jenna.
"We should plan to go to the Bahamas" You suggest.
"Oh let's do it I've always wanted to go to the Bahamas," Davis said.
You then notice the flyer in his hand, "What's that?"
"Oh, that's why I came over here. This is a music competition, winner gets a five million dollar record deal with Passion Records. I saw that Twitter video of you singing, you should sign up" Davis proposed.
"Nah I'm good" You declined.
Davis looked at you in shock, "What? Why not?"
"I don't wanna be under another label. I've done it before and it went sideways. I don't want people telling me what music to make or getting the majority of the money I worked hard for" You explained and shrugged your shoulders.
"But it can expose you to different opportunities so you can propel yourself properly in the industry. You don't have to stay under a label forever" Davis said.
You sighed, "I don't know I'll think about it."
"Well, you better think about it sooner than later. The deadline to submit your demo is in two weeks" Davis informed you and handed you the flyer.
You read over it and the information on the paper. Submission deadline ends on June 15th at 11:59 pm. Any type of music is accepted but it has to be under three minutes. Five million dollar record label with Passion Records. You heard about the label, but before signing with the local one, you tried numerous times to get a rep. to listen to your music. You never got a response from them. But now you have a chance to finally pursue your dream of being a global sensation in music. A dream you've had since you were 8 and went to your first concert.
Maybe it would be a great opportunity.
"We still going to the courts around 1?" Davis asked.
"Oh yeah, I almost forgot about that. Sisqo owes me my $50 from the last game" You said.
"What's the courts?" Jenna questioned.
"Basketball courts around the corner from her. Me and Davis always play a pickup game with some friends from the block every Friday" You answered.
"Oh, can I come?" Jenna asked.
"Of course. You can see me whoop some ass in basketball" You smirked.
🤰🏻🩵
"Jah!" You heard Davis yell from your right. Your eyes glance at Davis who was getting pressed by his defender. You knew if you passed it to him, he was either going to lose the ball or shoot and miss. You were down by 2 and if the other team scored it was game over. You had to play smart.
You pass it to Davis but you sprinted behind him to shake your defender. You were successful and got to the corner where Davis passed it to you. You caught it and immediately shot a three. You watched as it swished in the net, winning you the game.
"Yeah, buddy!" You exclaimed excitedly.
Jenna clapped and cheered on the sidelines while you and Davis dapped each other up. She sat back down in her seat while you started talking to the other team. She was surprised she even sat through the whole basketball game. She was more into soccer than any other sport but pick-up basketball was entertaining.
"Mind if I sit here?" A soft voice brought Jenna out of her thoughts. She looked to her right and saw an angelic woman. She looked like a Disney princess.
"No, no go for it" Jenna smiled. She grabbed her book from beside her but she felt eyes burning into the side of her head. She looked and saw the woman staring at her with recognition in her eyes.
"My apologies for staring at you but I love your work. Wednesday is currently my favorite series right now. You also did your thing in the Scream movies" The woman complimented.
"Thank you so much" Jenna gave the woman another smile.
"You know I never expected to run into you in the Bronx. This is the last place I ever thought" The woman chuckled.
Jenna nervously chuckled, "Yeah...just hanging and watching some basketball."
She didn't want to deal with a fan's pressing questions. She knew she should've put her disguise on. But luckily, Jenna relaxed a little when she saw you look at the woman with recognition in her eyes. Jenna watched as you tapped Davis rapidly on his arm and pointed toward the bleachers.
"Yo Diana, I ain't know you were gon' be here" You smiled and gave her a side hug.
Davis, on the other hand, was staring at her like a lovesick puppy.
"Yeah I was just walking by and I saw the two of you. Thought I'd stop and say hello...hey Davis" Diana smiled at Davis.
"H-Hey Diana" Davis nervously waved back.
You and Jenna smirked at each other while watching. Davis is a nervous mess in front of Diana.
"Oh Jenna, this is Diana, Diana this is Jenna. The three of us went to school together along with her twin sister Stacey" You said.
At the mention of the name Stacey, jealousy flushed through her as she remembered the night of the Met Gala. The beautiful girl that was attached to your hip like glue all night, posting you any chance she got.
"How is Stacey?" You asked.
"Good. She went back to Spelman last week but she'll be back for summer break" Diana told you. You nodded, took a sip of your water, and sat in front of Jenna.
"Word? I ain't know she got into Spelman. What is she going for?" You asked.
"Major in Music and minor in Theatre & Performance. Same as me just at a different school" Diana answered.
Unconsciously, you leaned back in between Jenna's legs. She placed her head on top of yours and her arms on your shoulders.
Diana smirked, "Y'all are cute together."
"I'm cute all the time" You playfully said.
"Mhmm I don't know about that. You have your moments" Jenna commented.
"Whoa, whoa, whoa you gon' do me like that babe. That's wild" You exclaimed.
"All I said was you have your moments. We got our moments too" Jenna defended playfully. Diana let out a giggle at the two of you.
"Speaking of cute, you should holla at Davis. Don't think I don't see the way you keep glancing over at him" You smirk.
"Uh...I don't know. I just got out of a relationship, a bad one at that. I don't think I'm ready for another one just yet" Diana vacillated.
"You don't have to jump into another relationship. I'm just saying to you know talk to him and become friends. But if you don't wanna do it, that's fine I'm not gonna force you or anything" You said.
Diana glanced at Davis again who looked up this time from his bag and smiled at her. She looked down to hide the blush that appeared on her cheeks. She then went into her purse and grabbed a piece of paper and a pen. She wrote her number and walked down the bleaches.
"I have to go but call me whenever you aren't busy" Diana smiled at him and placed the paper in his hands. She gave him a quick kiss on the cheek before walking off the court.
"I'm the best wingwoman ever aren't I" You smiled.
"Uh I've seen better" Jenna shrugged.
You suck your teeth as she laughed, "You a hater bruh."
🤰🏻🩵
"Tap, tap, and then we lock our middle fingers. End it off with a fist bump and touch thumbs" You explain to Jenna and demonstrate the handshake you guys just came up with. The two of you came back from the basketball courts and went back to Jenna's hotel room so the actress could finish packing.
"I don't want to leave" Jenna pouted as the both of you sat on the floor against her bed. It was getting closer to the time for Jenna to leave for the airport and she was having a hard time. The both of you were really, you just kept to yourself.
"You could always call me you know. No matter the time, I'll always pick up for you" You said sincerely. 
Truth be told, it was nice to finally have someone around. Someone new.
“You'll pick up at any time?" Jenna questioned amused.
"Yep. I'm an insomniac so 9 times out of ten I'll be up doing absolutely nothing productive" You chuckled. 
Jenna giggled, "I'm going hold you to that."
The two of them sat in a comfortable silence looking out at the sun setting sky. Neither of you uttered a word but your eyes slowly drifted to the woman next to you. The orange color bounced off her skin beautifully, making her freckles pop even more than before. You've seen your fair share of beautiful women but nothing compared to her. 
"Take a picture it'll last longer" Jenna spoke softly. 
You pulled your phone and quickly captured a picture of the actress. 
Jenna chuckled, "No way, you actually took a picture."
"You told me too. Now, I have an exclusive picture of Jenna Ortega. Should I sell it to these paparazzi weirdos?" You joked. 
"Do it. I bet you'll make a fortune" Jenna replied.
Suddenly, a ding is heard from Jenna's phone. She grabbed it from the nightstand and sighed as she looked at the person who texted her.
Nancy The Manager: we're outside
Jenna pouted as she read the message. She was hoping she got at least another hour with you but the universe didn't want to lift her spirits.
"They're here" Jenna grumbled.
You stood up from the floor and slipped on your slides. You grabbed her bags and Jenna got her airport outfit on. She checked to make sure she had everything before the two of you walked to the elevator.
After the elevator takes you to the hotel parking garage, you help place her bags in the trunk before you turn to her.
"I'm going to miss you" Jenna sniffled.
"Imma miss you too Hollywood" You pouted. The two of you hug each other tightly, not wanting to let go. But before she left, you bent down to be level with her small protruding stomach.
"Aight listen, it's just gon' be you and momma for a couple of months. You two take care of each other, if she is overworking herself, you better tell her to sit her ass down somewhere" You added, "Mama loves you and I'll be waiting here for the both of you to come back." You kiss her stomach and stand up.
"Why would you do that? Now I'm crying" Jenna cried and tried to wipe the tears from her eyes.
You chuckled, "I just to let it be known."
Jenna wiped the tears from her face and climbed into the SUV.
"Call or text whenever you land," You said.
"I will" Jenna reassured.
You then step back from the SUV. Big L climbs into the driver's side and after a moment pulls off. Jenna blew you a kiss which you caught and you waited until you couldn't see them anymore to walk to your car and eventually left the hotel.
The journey to the airport was a quiet one. Jenna was scrolling through her social media, which is rare for the girl. Music was blasting in her ears as she didn't want to engage with anyone, especially Hudson. She was still furious with the male after the stunt he pulled with her family. She didn't even spare him a glance as she got into the SUV, which stung him a little.
After almost an hour, Jenna finally arrived at Teterboro Airport. She was flying private this time and she didn't know why but she was secretly thankful that she didn't have to deal with the regular airport this time.
Everyone checked in and was walking to the private jet. It was small and nothing too extravagant which she liked. She just wanted to get from point A to point B safely.
The young actress was the first to step onto the plane but halted in her steps as she came face to face with someone she didn't want to see.
"Ah, nice to see you again Jenna. It's been a long time" Corneilo smiled at the girl.
Jenna looked behind her at Nancy and Hudson and saw the same shocked look on their faces.
"Please settle down and let's prepare for take-off," Neil said and pointed to the seat in front of him.
Jenna hesitated before slowly sitting in the seat in front of him, "You usually don't do in-person meetings."
"Yeah, but we have much to discuss. Things that couldn't be said over a video chat" Neil shrugged.
Nancy and Hudson hurriedly took a seat behind the two. Jenna was on edge, she was tense in her seat and she wanted nothing more than to be in your comfort again.
"Champagne?" Neil offered.
"No I'm good" Jenna declined.
The Cuban man nodded and down his glass of champagne before pouring himself another.
"What do we have to discuss?" Jenna asked impatiently.
Neil grinned, "I'm sure you know Jenna."
Jenna unconsciously hooked her arms around her stomach. She knew the man in front of her was unpredictable, she needed to be on guard the whole time.
"Do you remember why the court signed that paper Jenna?" Neil questioned.
"Because they wanted to keep the tradition going of a man ruling over a woman's life" Jenna retorted.
Neil let out a breathy laugh, "No...it's because you're reckless. That paper was designed to save you. Save you from the destructive road you were speeding down. The same road you found yourself back on."
Jenna didn't respond to him, just glared at him.
"20 years old and pregnant with a child by a talentless rat from the hood at the top of her career. Do you know how that makes me look? That I can't keep my clients in check because they do whatever they want to" Neil hissed.
"I care less about how it makes you look" Jenna snapped at the older man.
This makes Neil snap, at the speed of lighting he reaches over the table and grabs Jenna by her throat. Jenna tried to pull his hand away from her but was unsuccessful.
"You seem to forget who's in charge here. I'm the one in charge. I have the final say in what you can and cannot do, and who you can and cannot be with. I own you, Jenna. So when I tell you to jump, you ask how high. No sassy comeback, no attitude. Nothing." Neil snarled.
“Let her go Neil” Hudson glared at the older boy.
Neil’s eyes then snapped to Hudson. He let go of Jenna who was breathing heavily with tears running down her face. The older male then made his way to Hudson. He stopped just a breath away from him.
“Little Hudson Maverick, rich daddy’s boy that doesn’t know when to mind his business. A flaw of his that’s going to get him into some trouble in the future. How is mommy doing by the way? She still seeing that private exercise trainer on Thursdays and Saturdays during your father’s meetings?” Neil taunted the boy.
Nancy stood up from her seat, “That’s enough Corneilo.”
Neil then turned to look at the woman with a smirk on his face. He opens his mouth to say something but an alarm goes off on his watch.
“Hmph, dodge a bullet there Nancy” Neil commented. He smoothed out his suit and looked at them with a smile, "Enjoy the flight." He then left the private jet.
Once he left, Nancy slid next to Jenna. The young actress then gripped her shirt as she sobbed into her side.
a/n: y’all going to hate me…and possibly not hate me a little bit after 🙂
taglist: @grandpatrolnut @raven-ss @fanboy7794 @morganismspam23 @cinffy23 @darklron @cheesybacon1 @octavias-next-meat-bite @playboysaleen @niqmandu @zaclewiss @yescruzzzzzzz @silentfor @gemz5 @alwaysdangerouschild @onceblinkarmyandmore @melonfruit442 @zataracloud @nepobaby08 @jennasslut @rimaybank @jaewu @j3nc0re
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porcelainseashore · 1 year ago
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Teenage Headache Dreams (2)
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Series Masterlist
Pairing: High School! College! Leon Kennedy x Dancer! Fem! Reader
Summary: You’re a bored, but ambitious high school student who can’t wait to escape small town life and make it in the big city. You thought you had it all figured out, until you unwittingly befriend the resident golden boy, Leon. A series of events beginning from junior year to college until Resident Evil 2 Remake.
Warnings: 18+ Swearing, Recreational Drug Use, Eventual Smut, No (Y/N), Ambiguous/Open Ending
Content: High School AU, College AU, Pre-Resident Evil 2, Fluff, Romance, Cliche, Friends to Lovers, Hurt/Comfort, Angst, Lack of Communication
Author's Note: Cliché alert and mostly fluff in this chapter! There’s been a mini time skip, but I wanted to show that Reader x Leon became fast friends in the meantime and are relatively comfortable with each other. I made Leon a lot cheekier this round, but I feel like he uses mischief to mask his true feelings.
AO3 Link
Chapter 2: More Than Meets the Eye
The first couple of weeks of the new term had already flown by and managing your tight schedule of school work, actual work, dance and cheer practice left you with literally no time for anything else. Sighing as you yanked open your locker to retrieve your school books, a familiar figure popped up at your side, slouching against the metallic compartments with a loud thud.
Without even turning your head in its direction, you already knew who it was. “Hey, loser,” you called out, smiling inside.
“Hey, yourself,” came his gruff reply.
As you finally faced the culprit, you and Leon laughed at each other’s greetings.
“So, since it’s a Friday, wanna hang out and watch something tonight?”
Both of you had been almost inseparable until school started, and that’s when you guiltily kept postponing your regular meetups in favor of working on your future goals.
“Uh… I don’t think I can.” You rubbed the back of your neck sheepishly. “I seriously need to get some studying time in and I have cheer practice after school.”
“What was that again?” He put a hand to his ear, listening for something non-existent and pausing for dramatic effect. “All I heard were excuses.”
“Hey-”
“Come on, relax.” Placing his hand on your shoulder, he gave it a tiny squeeze. “School’s only just started. You’re gonna burn out if you keep going like this.”
“Leon…” It came out a lot whinier than you intended.
His eyes widened as you caught a brief glimpse of something devilish in them. You knew it was too late to stop the bullshit that would come out of that filthy mouth any second now. 
“Mm, say it like that again.” Ah, there it is.
Groaning internally, you smacked his hand off your shoulder playfully. “Ugh, you know there’s no way-” 
You turned your head around, checking behind you before lowering your voice. “-I’ll ever get outta here, if I don’t push myself from the start.”
He straightened up a little as he considered your words. “You hate this place that much, huh?”
“You think?” It came out almost as a whisper.
“Shame,” he muttered. “Well, tell you what,” he glanced quickly to the side before looking back at you. “Since you’re so damn keen on this study session, we could do that and then grab some burgers after. Maybe even a movie. How’s that sound?” He puffed his chest and looked almost victorious, as though he knew it was an offer you couldn’t back out of.
Fuck Leon and his persistence. “Yeah, fine,” you grumbled as you shut your locker in defeat.
Once again, that smug grin flashed across his face. “Great, so uh, see you at 5?”
“Mm hm, library,” you nodded reluctantly.
“By the way, your girl gang is here,” he motioned with his head in the direction behind you. “Guess that’s my cue to leave.” Before you could respond, he had already walked ten paces away.
Nobody likes gossip. Ever since you had started hanging out with Leon, people talked and they assumed many things. How far the rumors reached, you didn’t know, but you didn’t want to ruin things between the two of you. You cursed small town gossip under your breath. This was probably one of the few genuine friendships you had, so you tried to keep things as lowkey as possible. Thankfully, Leon agreed to play along. For now.
You tightened your grip on your books as you spun around, plastering a bright smile across your face as you greeted your teammates, who were still sporting tans from their holidays and bubbly chatting with each other.
“Hey, babe,” Kayla, the cheer captain, moved in to give you a quick hug. You caught a whiff of her tropical-scented, coconut vanilla perfume. “So where did your boy run off to?” She winked, giving you a side smile. The other girls around her immediately broke out in hushed whispers.
There wasn’t anything malicious about her question. In fact, your teammates were nice enough, but they could be rather superficial and nosey. You tried to downplay it with a look of confusion in your eyes, shaking your head as you remarked, “He’s just a study partner, Kayla.”
Some giggles broke out and your ears burned. Great, they didn’t buy that a single bit. Defending yourself would just raise more suspicion, so you unhappily resigned yourself to the fact that you were probably doomed for the rest of the term.
“Yeah, whatever.” Kayla waved her hand dismissively. “Was about time anyway, and he’s quite the catch.” She licked her lips suggestively, but quickly added, “Not as good as mine though.” Of course, her obnoxious football boyfriend. You tried to hide your grimace. 
Flipping her shiny, raven-colored locks, she continued, “Still, very cute. I approve.”
Your mouth ran dry. Why couldn’t they just mind their own business? You swallowed your anger as you tried to change the subject. “Um, cheer practice at 3, right?”
She snickered, seeing right through your act. “Yeah, same as always.” She turned to leave, wiggling her fingers as a form of goodbye. “Oh, and you’re leading warm-ups today. Ciao, babe.”
You could hear audible groans coming from the rest of the team as they trudged off with Kayla. They definitely weren’t looking forward to your intense warm-up session, but to you, warmer bodies meant lesser injury risk and better preparation for stunts and routines. Pursing your lips at the less-than-ideal conversation you just had, you tried to shove it to the back of your mind as you hurried off to class.
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As you flung open the double doors leading to the school’s indoor gym, you were greeted by the unfamiliar sight of another group you didn’t exactly recognize next to your cheer team. It seemed like Kayla was speaking to their coach, as she nodded a bit too enthusiastically - a nervous habit she displayed when she was irritated but didn’t want to show it. Slowly, you inched closer to listen in on their conversation.
“There must have been a double booking-”
“I’ll sort this out with the admin right now,” Kayla offered.
“It’s just going to eat into practice time. Anyway, this lot won’t need much space today. Functional training.” He sucked his teeth and gestured towards the group. That’s when you spotted Leon, sitting at the side with his arms across his lap, chatting merrily with another girl on his team.
Just my luck, you sighed, folding your arms as the coach continued, “I’m sure you girls won’t mind sharing?”
You saw Kayla clenching and unclenching her fists as she hesitantly agreed to the proposal. With that, she spun around and called out shrilly, “Ladies! We’ve gotta share the space. We’re taking this half.” She drew an imaginary line with her arms as if to stake her claim, before brushing past you seething, “They always think they can sideline us, like we’re not important.”
At this point, Leon made eye contact and waved over. The girl beside him suppressed a laugh and you weren’t sure whether she was embarrassed or making fun of you. Furrowing your brows, you gave a hasty, lopsided smile before heading over to your side of the gym, making a mental note to question Leon about that exchange later.
Wasting no time for further pleasantries, you proceeded to blast your high-energy mixtape on the cassette player as loudly as possible, secretly smirking as you heard the coach swear under his breath at the intrusion.
“Ok, everyone! Let’s get those heart rates up!” You hollered, running through the exercises as they copied you dutifully, breaking out in a sweat and panting furiously. 
Your eyes filtered through the crowd, checking for anything they could improve on, as you continued calling out prompts. “You can lift your legs higher than that!” Hm, that sounded rather… You ignored that prickly feeling at the back of your throat and continued, “Face up, not to the floor!”
When it came to the stretching section and the music toned down, you suddenly heard the unmistakable yell of a reprimand being given from the other end of the room. “Kennedy! You can stare at girls after training!”
Wait, what? Your head darted in the direction of the bellowing. Sure enough, you saw the coach glaring at Leon, who seemed pretty flustered as he denied the accusations with a feeble “I wasn’t!”, which was met with roars of laughter.
Really, Leon? Getting distracted by a bunch of cheerleaders? You were oblivious to what actually happened there and decided to pay no more attention to it. Instead, it was time to go through the routine and fortunately you were relatively decent at compartmentalizing.
“Alright, a few things I wanted to point out,” you began. “This part’s looking good, but it would start off even more amazing, if you frame your body like this.” Adjusting your shoulders with your arms slightly back, profile tilted a smidge upwards, you angled yourself in a semi-diagonal position, shifting your weight towards one leg as you lengthened the other for the prep stance. The other cheerleaders shuffled around, attempting to imitate what you showed.
Kayla motioned for you to demonstrate the full sequence before she took over and you obliged. “Ok, watch me.” You danced through the routine dynamically, hitting all the accents and flowing through the softer parts more sensually. Whipping your hair around as you transitioned from a body wave into a hip roll, you swung the pom poms above your head at the same time and trailed them across your body.
It all seemed to happen in a haze, but after coming out of the next spin, you somehow ended up holding a gaze with those same piercing blue eyes that had caused you so much trouble today. They widened and flickered, but didn’t break away for what felt like an eternity, until-
“Leon Scott Kennedy! I swear to god!”
Uh oh.
“You either train, or you can leave!”
Leon’s cheeks flushed bright red as he bit his lip, stammering, “Sorry coach, won’t happen again.”
You’d never seen Leon get this unnerved, which concerned you. He emanated a natural sense of confidence and was usually laid-back to the point where nothing could ruffle him. In any case, you were also sure as hell everyone heard and saw that commotion, especially since a number of students were now looking between him and you, mumbling to each other.
Nothing could beat the relief you felt when Kayla took over your position, as you stepped away from the center to join the rest of your team. Just when you thought you were in the clear, one of your teammates scooted over to you, whispering seductively in your ear, “Ooh he definitely enjoyed the show you put on.”
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The minute practice ended, you bolted straight for the restroom, just so you didn’t have to deal with anyone else for the time being. Hiding in one of the cubicles for a good 10 minutes until you could hear the last footsteps trickle out of the hallway, you unlocked the door and stumbled over to the wash basin, splashing cold water on your face. Checking yourself one last time in the mirror to make sure you looked presentable, you inhaled a deep breath before exiting and making your way towards the library.
From afar, you could see Leon waiting patiently outside of it, as though he fully trusted that you would still show up after that little stunt he pulled earlier. Walking gingerly towards him, you cleared your throat.
“Oh, hey. So… what’re we studying today?” He asked casually, while browsing through his pile of books, as if nothing had happened.
“Math. Definitely Math,” you concluded, also pretending to ignore the white elephant in the room. “If that’s ok with you?”
“Sure, I suck at it. So why not?”
The study session went by rather sluggishly and uneventfully, with both of you going through equations after equations and figuring out the logic together. It was a wonder you could concentrate at all with the events of the day playing back in your mind like a broken record. 
You were thankful for Leon’s earlier suggestion of burgers when it was time to pack up to leave. He gave you a knowing smile when your stomach growled and you placed a hand over your belly instinctively, as you cast back a self-conscious glance. It seemed like he had thought of everything again, where you often had trouble remembering your own basic needs when you were lost in your schoolwork.
Both of you plopped down on the cushy, retro red seats opposite each other in a booth at the only diner in town, getting in your orders as quickly as possible. You suspected that he was just as famished as you, but trying his best not to show it. During the waiting time, the two of you caught up with and exchanged news on all the goings-on of the past weeks.
When your orders finally arrived, you snatched up your burger, devouring large chunks of it, while Leon looked on amused as he bit into his.
“Wuhhff?” You managed to cough out with your mouth stuffed with food.
Almost instantly, he mimicked your reaction, resulting in a fry being thrown in his direction, as he ducked to avoid it while snickering.
“Here, you got some sauce on your chin.” He reached out with a paper napkin, gently wiping it away, as his bright blue eyes bore into yours. That prickly sensation you felt earlier in the school gym started to bloom again, as you squeezed your eyes shut and cleared your throat. “Is it gone now?”
“Uh… y-yeah.” 
Fluttering your eyes open, you caught sight of him looking down at his plate, suddenly completely engrossed with his meal, as he chucked the used napkin to the side. You were quite certain you spotted a pink tinge dusting his cheeks while he slowly chewed his food.
The table grew silent as you muttered a quick, “Thanks.”
Giving it a few minutes before you attempted any form of conversation, you casually decided to bring up the topic you had both been avoiding till now.
“So…” you breathed, testing the waters.
“So…?” Leon questioned, raising an eyebrow, still munching the last bits of his burger.
“At the gym. What was that all about?” You picked at your fries nervously, as you felt a rush of adrenaline coursing through your body in anticipation of an answer.
“What do you mean?”
Ugh. He’s deflecting again. But you weren’t about to let this go so easily. “Don’t play dumb, Kennedy.”
Leon paused, and you could see the wheels turning in his head as he considered his words carefully. It only took a moment for his face to light up as if he hit the jackpot. “I got distracted, that’s all.” His signature smirk broke out across his lips, before adding, “By you.”
The boldness of his answer caught you by surprise, as you choked on your food. Patting your chest, you gulped down some water before sputtering, “Excuse me?”
All at once, he was back to his usual, composed self, as he remarked, “You dance really well. Can’t I admire that?”
“Um… y-yeah, I guess.” You weren’t sure how to respond. Coming from a background where dance teachers often gave you tough love and criticisms in an effort to spur you on, you never really learnt how to accept compliments.
“A ‘thanks’ would be nice.” 
Clenching your jaw, you wished you could wipe that stupid smirk off his face. Trying to approach it from a different angle, you blurted out, “But, people talk.”
Leaning back against his seat and placing his hands behind his head, Leon seemed unfazed. “So let them talk.” Noticing your frown, he continued, “What’s wrong if they think we’re dating? Am I really that bad to be with?” He mentioned it as if it was the most normal thing to say in conversation between two friends, and the worst thing was that you didn’t know how to counter that.
“No, you’re gre-,” you quickly corrected yourself. “I mean, you’re fine.” Sighing, you explained, “I just don’t want things to be awkward between us.”
His gaze softened as he reassured you, “It won’t, trust me.”
Since he was that calm about it, you decided not to pursue it any further. Maybe you were thinking too much into things. However, another question popped up in your mind. “Who was the girl you were speaking with back there?”
He propped himself up again, a little taken aback by the quick change of topic. “Oh, you mean Val? Yeah, we sometimes participate in relays together. She can be a real handful though.”
“She seemed to find me amusing,” you pointed out.
“Really? I didn’t notice,” he shrugged and scoffed down the remainder of his fries. You searched his eyes to detect if he was messing with you, but couldn’t find anything of the sort. “I told her about you.”
Well, that explains it. Crossing your arms, you prepared to release an earful until you were interrupted by the grinning idiot in front of you. “Do I even want to know-”
“I said…” He drifted off, taking his time to sip his soda, leaving you hanging on purpose. You subconsciously leaned in closer as your patience started to wear thin. He lowered his voice, presumably to utter something serious. “You’re the coolest kid I met over summer.”
“You’re such a dork!” You exclaimed, as you punched his arm lightly from across where you sat.
“Ouch! And here I am baring my soul to you.” He rubbed his arm melodramatically and feigned a hurt expression on his face, which only served to encourage you to taunt and play fight with him further.
Sometimes he could be so infuriating. But funnily enough, that was part of what drew you to him in the first place. 
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It turned out that Leon had rented some VHS tapes from Blockbuster, so you had the choice of either heading to the local cinema for a late night screening or watching a movie from the comfort of his home. Naturally, you picked the latter. Going to the cinema together would seem too “date night”-like and you had endured more than enough gossip that day to last a lifetime.
You greeted his parents as they kindly let you and Leon hog the living room TV. Before heading upstairs to their bedroom, they gave a half-hearted reminder not to stay up too late, that they knew would go unheeded. They were friendly and way more relaxed than your parents, so much so you preferred hanging out at Leon’s place over yours.
After making some hot chocolate, you settled onto the couch as Leon popped the tape into the video player. Relaxing into the cozy atmosphere, you hugged the warm blanket he offered you and savored the steaming drink between your hands.
Unfortunately, the day’s events probably caught up to you, as your eyelids grew heavier as time went by and you were fighting a losing battle to keep them open. At some point, you must have drifted off to sleep and then accidentally used Leon as a makeshift pillow. He swallowed thickly, as you curled up beside him, resting your head against his shoulder and nuzzling his neck, completely unaware. His heart was pounding so hard in his chest that he was afraid he would wake you. Something made him instinctively wrap his arm around you, even though his mind was screaming to do the exact opposite. This is just gonna make things worse, he sighed, but he didn’t feel the urge to remove it and maybe he could get away without you knowing. So he let you sleep soundly until the credits ran.
“Hey.” He called out softly, as you stirred. “The movie’s over now.”
Blinking groggily, your vision was still blurry as you tried to make out where you were. You weren’t sure if you felt an arm around you or just the back of the couch, as you rubbed your eyes.
“You fell asleep,” he explained, as he let you go and tried to shift away from you as stealthily as possible, hoping you wouldn’t recall the previous position you were in.
“Hm?” You stretched your arms out, yawning lazily as you scratched your head. “Uh, what time is it?”
“Just past midnight.”
You jerked upwards, startled. “Shit, so late?” Your face swung in his direction. “You didn’t wake me?”
He bit his bottom lip, eyeing you apologetically. “You looked like you needed the rest. I didn’t want to disturb you.”
You buried your face into the bunched up blanket on top of your knees, groaning, “Ugh, my parents are going to kill me.”
That drew a faint laugh from him. “Don’t worry, I took care of it.”
You turned towards him with a puzzled look.
“I called them before-” he stopped himself abruptly, as you noticed him tense up.
“Before what?” You questioned out of confusion.
“Nothing.” He shifted uncomfortably in his seat and refused to meet your gaze.
You narrowed your eyes at him, trying to figure out if something out of the ordinary had happened. It started off as a vague recollection of falling asleep, maybe leaning against something and the smell of fresh citrus and musk… which smells exactly like- Oh god, no. Your stomach dropped. The realization that you had snuggled with Leon in your sleep dawned on you and your head was whirling.
At this point, Leon knew you had worked out what happened, so he did the only thing he could do in such a situation. “Man, you were heavy.” 
That snapped you out of it and earned him a slap to his chest. “It was a joke, jeez!” He raised both hands up in defense and quickly moved to a different topic, “Anyway, as I was saying, your parents told me to walk you home when you woke up.”
“Oh… thanks,” you shook your head and sighed. “Sorry to put you through the trouble.”
He waved it off. “It’s really no big deal. I’m just glad I finally got to hang out with you again.”
“Yeah, me too,” you admitted. “This was nice.”
As you got up from the couch to prepare to leave, it seemed like Leon had another idea. Grabbing your wrist, he coaxed, “And?”
You knew what he meant and nodded in agreement. “And… I promise I’ll make time for this in the future.” A random thought flashed across your mind as you grinned cheekily. You had to get him back after all his teasing. “How about…”
“I’m listening,” he mentioned with a hint of suspicion in his voice.
“...we meet for more study sessions?”
It was his turn to groan, as you giggled uncontrollably. “That’s such a cop-out!” He responded accusingly. 
Placing your hands on his shoulders and bending down to meet him at eye level, you pleaded, “Come on, we could do something fun after too?”
Rolling his eyes, he rebutted, “You’re kinda driving a hard bargain here.”
You weren’t ashamed to play dirty though, so you turned on the best doe eyes you could muster, and insisted, “Please?” You knew he was a lost cause now.
“Damn it, that’s not fair,” he grumbled, though he eventually gave in. “Ok fine, but only if fun’s a guarantee.”
“Deal.” With that, you took his hand in yours, giving it a firm handshake.
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dropthedemiurge · 11 months ago
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Love for Love's Sake | Things You Didn't Notice #9
(okay it's not an episode number this time i just still have many details to point out oops pls let me go)
I swear. I thought I'd stop mentioning small details because I already wrote like 10 posts on Tumblr translating and explaining all the cultural stuff regarding this show and the obsession is already becoming embarrassing, but I rewatched the last episodes again and I've got tiny. Little. Details. That I can't help but point people to once again. Because damn, the amount of thought put into this show!
(trigger warning: first part talks about suicide and depression, next ones are linguistic and cultural)
The Black Suit & The Sea
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I would've asked Koreans I know about the significance of such symbolism but they are celebrating Seollal (New Year) today and I don't wanna ruin the festive mood asking about "how would people dress for suicide" x)
But after watching this scene, I recognized some strong parallels in Korean media depicting depression, suicide and one's decision to end their life. One of it is bridges and jumping (if you don't know what Bridge of Life is, ask me and I'll share, so this post wouldn't become too long) but another one is sea.
My interpretation - Koreans wear black suits to funerals, so if someone is headed to the sea in a black suit, it might mean this is the character's attempt to "have" their own funeral before finally ending their life. Why do I think this combination is somehow significant?
Because I remembered a music video one of K-pop artists I like (Kim Hanbin) made, after he experienced the downfall of career, extreme hate and rejection from the public, and severe depression. His whole album Waterfall tells Hanbin's personal story, dark thoughts and his battle to survive during the time when he was gone for 2 years, but in the music video for this album (illa illa) he is seen emerging from the sea in a black suit – metaphorically regaining his music and, most importantly, desire to live. Watch with lyrics!
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If we think, this is how you depict suicidal thoughts/attempt in Korean media (of course, Love for Love's Sake was even more blunt in telling us the meaning), then Myungha wearing black suit wasn't just for the pretty or dramatic picture. More than that, we see him wearing the black suit for the whole last evening – especially when he goes to finally meet his mother.
Which tells us Myungha has already decided to disappear from this world, and was determined to do it on that day, and his mother rejecting him and pretending she doesn't know her son might not have been just the last straw... but it definitely could've been Myungha's last attempt to find anything in his life worth staying for, worth not going through with his plan.
Anyway, what a scary but beautiful symbolism.
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Let's talk about something happier! More heartwarming!
Do you remember when we talked about the carefully placed movie posters in previous episodes? I payed more attention to the background this time when in Episode 8 Yeowoon ran to the cinema searching for Myungha in his world. And what an amazing discovery! When Myungha starts existing again and calls Yeowoon, the movie poster behind Yeowoon says "Guardian" (보호자).
And I already said in another post that Myungha in previous episodes admitted himself being Yeowoon's "guardian, protector" in the exact same word. But now this word is shown next to Yeowoon! As Yeowoon is the one who changed the main mission and has now declared himself Myungha's guardian and protector and will do his best to make him (his favourite pereson/bias/blorbo) happy. They have now both become guardians for each other. This. Goddamn. Show.
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And I also want to shout out the VFX & Production team for this show – all the visual effects are very down to earth, gentle and not over the top but enhancing the series to the max. Like, maybe you wondered where on the screen does it say "Monday, August 14" and "Saturday, August 12"? Well, as expected, you see it on four monitor screens above the box office – the date, the ongoing movies (yep, still our favourite two fake movies) and available dates etc.
But when Yeowoon and Myungha agree to meet each other in the exact system time, they are facing each other without a barrier, and the screens are now counting down the time until the Game End. Instead of normally showing movies, like in the previous shot, it says "Time remaining: 3 hours, 23 minutes, 15 seconds". It was either done with VFX or practically, but still, the thought of incorporating system messages into the actual background is insane and I'm always happy to discover such details.
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I don't know how many of you have motivational stairs at your schools, we definitely didn't have this but it's quite a popular thing in Korea. They put popular and uplifting sayings for students on each stair, sometimes they even quote motivational phrases from idols, like this:
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And it's interesting that when system gets broken and Myungha is about to disappear, we see the deep cracks coming through the stairs, we see ruined school BUT at the same time the quotes in the show are so obviously in our focus. And they are already written (see screenshots above) in Korean and English, but I'll still write down: one is saying "Stay hungry, stay foolish" and "If you dream it, you can do it, you will succeed". So, perhaps... motivational quotes from sunbae?
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And the last moment isn't heavy on translation but I still want to talk about it because cool Korean culture!xD You see the gang grilling meat on the roof (it's called samgyeopsal and it's very popular to have for gatherings), and then Myungha makes a "ssam" and feeds it to Yeowoon – but Sangwon steals it.
Ssam is a wrap, you grill meat then put it on the salad leaf, add other ingredients (like mushrooms, sauces, garlic, green onions etc, there are many side dishes) and then you wrap it in this sort of salad sack and eat it. It's very tasty and unusual combination. But the thing is! There is no way to make it for someone else and leave it on their plate so if you make a ssam wrap for someone and want to give it to a person, you literally have to feed them (like Myungha does with a very fond smile). This is why it's often seen as a romantic gesture (aka feeding someone from your fork etc) and why it's hilarious that Sangwon steals this ssam from Yeowoon (because he wants and he gets Myungha's affection and he's not above being a brat about it!)
I'm sure you can already sense it anyway without me telling you about romantic/close-friend implications, but I thought you guys might wonder why are the guys fighting over the salad leaf.
Another funny thing – Sangwon mentions "There's a saying, 'Don't scold dogs while they eat'". This is a Korean proverb "밥 먹을 때는 개도 안 때린다" ("You don't hit even a dog when it eats") which means that, no matter how annoying you find someone, no matter how angry you are, you can't scold this person while they are eating. Eating is a very important cultural thing in Asia, of course, so do not have arguments at the dinner :D But it's funny how Sangwon uses old proverbs to be mischievous and steal Myungha's love without consequences xD I adore him
I swear, this gotta be my last post about all the details in Love for Love's Sake. There is one more scene with the mirror and a caption, and I'm very curious if it means something because it was seen twice, during system breaking down scene as well, but it's either in Chinese or Japanese and I can't read it.
Anyway! Hope you enjoyed your everyday magazine, I love reading all your tags and thoughts and comments, and if you want to read all my previous translations and pointed out cultural details in Love for Love's Sake, go read this tag!=)
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notsogoodphotographer · 9 months ago
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Hi i want to talk about my all time favorite camera 📸
pls ignore all my grammar mistakes, i’m not professional reviewer 😂 i just wanna talk about this camera.
This is the Sony RX1Rii, this is the third and “most recent” version of this camera. i put “most recent” in quotes because this camera is almost 10 years old. don’t like the old age fool you because this camera can keep up with the newest cameras in its niche.
This little point and shoot sports a 42mp full frame sensor. YES, F U L L F R A M E!! This tiny camera is actually smaller than all the x100 series (minus the lens on it). The camera has an incredibly sharp Zeiss Sonnar 35mm f2 glued to. This camera has 399 af points, with eye AF. The camera is incredibly fast and accurate!! the camera is pretty much a tiny packaged Sony A7Rii!
One of my favorite features of this camera is the pop-up EVF! This is a feature that was added to only this version of the camera and it’s a feature that i wish sony continued to incorporate into some of their other smaller cameras like the A7c or a6k series!
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The camera does shoot video up to 1080 120fps, but does not have picture profiles such has S-log or HLG. This was a camera made strictly for photos, which is probably for the best because the battery life on this camera is terrible, any kind of prolong video shooting would absolutely burn through these batteries in minutes.
That brings me to my next point, my cons. There’s not many but i figured i’d point them out anyways for those who are interested in this camera. these aren’t make it or break it cons, these are just issues that hinder it from being the greatest camera ever released (IMO)
1) battery life, i believe it’s rated for like 220 shots. Ive definitely gotten it to last twice than that. That tiny body processing all that data on some of the tiniest batteries makes sense why it’s so bad. Luckily batteries are cheap and like i said they’re tiny, so they’re pretty easy to carry around!
2) no picture profiles in video. i know i touched on it briefly up above and this camera is mainly a photo camera AAAAAND hybrid cameras were just beginning to grow in popularity around the time this camera came out but it would’ve been amazing to have s-log in this camera for little snippets here and there. i know at the time IG and other photo sharing apps were mainly photo sharing apps, and a camera that was built strictly for photo has no business having usable picture profiles in video.
3) no crop mode in RAW. this one is weird to me because i know the A7Rii has an APS-C mode where you can shoot RAW photos with an inbody crop and there’s times that i’d love to shoot something at 50mm (35mm + sony’s 1.5x aps-c crop). there is a digital zoom option but that’s for jpg only.
4) PRICE!!!! why the fuck is this camera still being sold for $3200??!! this is a 10 year old camera with outdated tech. i bought mine used for $1900 (which is about the price of the fuji x100V at the time of purchase) and i still think that’s a little too much.
that’s really about it aside from minor complaints of not having tele/ wide converters. i’m also sure all of those cons stem from the small battery. I’d love to see all of these corrected in a Mk3 one day, but as of a couple weeks ago sony just discontinued the Rx1rii’s production. I’m being a little hopeful but maybe that means we’re getting a successor, i doubt it but a boy can dream.
I don’t really do reviews or anything but this camera has had my heart for the past 9 months so i had to show it off/ talk about it. this to me in the perfect everyday camera. it never leaves my side and comes with me to any and every trip! Im always blown away by the photos i create with this little camera and i know whenever a mk3 comes out im going to hop on the chance to buy on immediately!
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neewtmas · 10 months ago
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ᴛʜᴇ ʜᴀᴜɴᴛɪɴɢ ᴏꜰ ᴀʙʙᴇʏ ʜᴏᴜꜱᴇ // ᴘᴀʀᴛ ᴠɪɪ
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pairing: george karim x fem!reader
wordcount: 3.6k
summary: a case that takes longer than expected, an unrequited crush, and the hardest decision you ever had to make
a/n: the angst has finally started hehe
masterlist series masterlist
taglist: @maraschinomerry @sstrawberriel @poisonquinzell @holymotherfxrkingshirtballs @thl3c @oblivious-idiot @bobbys-not-that-small @myownpainintheass @taygrls @marinalor @y0urm0m12 @fearlessmoony @quack-quack-snacks @ahead-fullofdreams @aphroqite ((if you wanna be added or removed, just tell me)
For a moment, it felt like the world itself had stopped spinning. You were frozen in place, fingers hovering over the bag's zipper unmoving.
Your heart was racing almost as quickly as your thoughts as you stared down at your now trembling hands, trying to process what you had just heard.
"W- what?"
George didn't say anything, and with your heart beating out of your chest you willed your muscles to move, to turn around, expecting him to be looking at you.
But he wasn't looking at you. Instead, he had his eyes and the light of his flashlight fixed on a piece of paper.
"I love you more than you could ever know", he repeated, slowly lowering the paper and raising his head to look at you. His gaze was so intense it sent shivers down your spine.
"Love letters, (name)."
He came around from behind the desk with quick steps, pointing excitedly at the paper that had neat handwriting on one side.
"Do you know what means?"
You just stared up at him, unable to get a single word out or even just shake your head.
But he ignored you anyway.
"Lockwood! You gotta see this!"
As soon as he was out of the room, you collapsed on the floor. The hilt of your rapier, that was fastened to your belt, was pressing painfully into your stomach, but you ignored it. Over the ringing in your ears, you could hear George and Lockwood talking animatedly in the other room, but you ignored it.
Instead, you forced yourself to take one deep, slow breath after the other. Your chest felt so tight it might as well was the only thing that kept your heart from splitting into a million tiny pieces. Your vision was blurry, and you blinked away the tears frantically, though one still managed to escape and made its way down your cheek to your trembling lips.
Pull yourself together.
You bit the inside of your cheek so hard it almost drew blood and the searing pain was enough to snap you out of it.
Just as you had managed to get up, your knees feeling weak for all the wrong reasons, Lucy came in. Her brows furrowed immediately upon seeing you and she rushed over, her hand on your elbow as if she wanted to steady you.
"Are you okay, (name)? You look a little pale", she asked gently.
At that moment, you wanted nothing more than to just collapse in her arms and cry, but instead, you straightened your back and took a deep breath. You just nodded because you didn't trust your voice yet and together, you made your way over to the other room.
Lockwood and George stood at the desk, leaning over the letter, Lockwood holding the flashlight while George was running his finger over the page, reading intently.
You went to stand next to Lockwood.
"You good, (name)?", he asked after he glanced at you and you wondered just how much of the pain you were feeling was showing on your face.
"There is some stuff in here that I'm not going to repeat", George said finally and took a step back from the desk. "But it seems like the butler… well, let's say he isn't just a butler to her."
Lockwood crossed his arms.
"I think I know who the ghost is we're dealing with here."
Lucy looked surprised. "How did you get that from this letter?"
"Remember when I told you Lord Blackwood himself called me a few days ago?", he began. "Well, he didn't. I've been trying to figure out what it was that bothered me so much about the few words the butler said to us earlier, and why he hadn't been talking to us at all before that."
Lockwood ran his fingers through his hair, making it stand up in all different directions. Hedgehog, was all you could think of for a second.
In the dim glow of the flashlights, the darkness around his eyes seemed deeper than usual.
"You mean…" Lucy trailed off.
"He was the one who called me, yes."
"They killed him", George said slowly. He had picked the letter up again, holding it close to his face.
"(name), go check if you can find more letters", Lockwood said. "Ideally we find one where they admit to it. That will make dealing with DEPRAC much less of a hassle later."
You didn't find it in yourself to protest, so you made your way back to the other desk. The drawer was still pulled open, and you kneeled down next to it for better access. There was a neat stack of letters, it seemed like George had just picked up the one at the top. You put your flashlight aside to get them all out of the drawer, when the light flickered, then went out.
You cursed under your breath and felt around for the flashlight on the plush carpet when suddenly a loud thud sounded behind you. You startled, knocking your knee hard against the edge of the drawer which had a small yelp of pain slip past your lips.
"Is everything alright, (name)?" That was Lucy.
Just at that moment, your fingers found the cool metal of the flashlight and closed around it to pick it up. You aimed the light behind you, where a thick book was lying on the floor. It looked completely unassuming, but you knew better.
"Just a book that fell down", you called back, trying to keep your voice sounding calm and pleasant. "I'm coming back now."
You grabbed a handful of letters and stood up slowly, trying to level your breathing.
Do not panic.
You didn't dare turn your back to the bookcase so you were walking backwards towards the door. You were in the middle of the room, only a few steps away from - relative - safety, when you noticed a second book inching forward gradually as if an invisible hand was pulling it off the shelf.
You watched in horror as it tipped over the edge and fell, almost in slow motion. But before it could hit the floor, you whipped around and sprinted to the door.
There was no way for you to slow down as it slammed shut with a deafening bang, so you collided full force with the wood.
You felt dizzy for a few moments as you stumbled back disoriented.
On the other side of the door was a rush of voices and footsteps.
"(name)! (name), are you okay?!" George was violently shaking the door handle, it even sounded like he was throwing himself against the door, but it wouldn't budge.
"(name), get into the iron circle immediately!" Lockwood's voice was stern, but you could hear the worry behind his words.
You bent down to pick up the flashlight you had dropped, and your vision went black for a second.
It was when you turned around that you realised you never got as far as even getting the chains out of the bag.
"I'll have to make one first", you called over your shoulder.
George was now banging against the door. "Why is there no circle? You were supposed to make one!"
You felt tears prickling in your eyes at his accusing tone. With blurry vision you ripped the zipper of the bag open and pulled the chains out, trying to ignore how several other books fell out of the shelves behind you.
"(name), answer me! Are you in the circle?!" George was shouting now, and you were crying. The chains slid through your hands, banging on the floorboards, and you dropped to your knees to try and form a circle with them.
"(name)!"
"What?!" you yelled back, tears flowing freely as you stood up inside the iron circle, drawing your rapier with a shaky hand. This was all too much.
"Are you in the circle?!"
You laughed bitterly. His concern just made you angry now.
"I wouldn't have to be if you had just secured the door, like you were supposed to do!"
"Stop arguing, it's just gonna feed it of your anger!" This was Lucy.
You closed your eyes, trying to calm the storm that was raging inside you. You felt like you were submerged under water, your emotions like big waves and strong currents throwing you around like a puppet. If you wanted to get out of here alive, you need to get a grip on yourself.
"How am I supposed to stay calm when she is in there alone!?" George was pounding against the door so hard you thought it might fly off its hinges at any moment.
"George, stop it! You're just hurting yourself!" Lucy sounded exasperated and then lowered her voice to say something to him that you couldn't make out through the door.
Your head was pounding, the static noise that until now had just been like a mildly annoying fly in the corner of the room had increased in volume. When you went to push a strand of hair off your face, you noticed your fingertips came back red. Shit. You felt over your forehead and temple and winced at the sharp pain as your fingers brushed over a cut above your eyebrow. Your run-in with the door hadn't left you entirely unscathed, it seemed.
"(name), do you have the letters with you? Maybe you'll find something about what might be the source in there." You could tell that Lucy tried her best to stay calm, and you had never been more thankful to have her.
You sat back down, your rapier next to you, and with trembling hands, you ripped open the first letter. Luckily the handwriting was legible even in the dim light, but in your haste to read you stumbled over the words, sometimes skipping whole sentences and paragraphs. You briefly wondered why the letters were here, in this office. It couldn't be Blackwood's office then.
The pile of unread letters in front of you was shrinking as you were making your way through them, even though the freezing cold air had made your fingers so stiff you could barely move them anymore.
So far, you had found nothing. It was just pages over pages full of love confessions that frankly, made you sick to your stomach. There was nothing you wanted to think less about at that moment.
Staying inside the small iron circle you had made for yourself had kept you safe so far, though it was hard to block out the sounds of falling books, the rattling of pens in drawers and the sinister creaking of the heavy desk as if it might lift off the ground and smash you to death any second.
You got startled by a thick book that flew off the desk, skidding over the floor towards you and coming to a halt in front of you.
The surprised sound you made prompted a commotion on the other side of the door.
"What is it? Are you okay?"
You didn't reply. Your eyes were fixed on the book, which should have stopped before it made contact with the iron. Instead, it had made a dent in the chain circle.
The panic that you had been able to control so far was threatening to take over your body. The atmosphere in the room had shifted while you had been busy reading the letters, and you hadn't noticed the fine slivers of ghost fog that had gathered in the corners of the room.
George called out your name, banging against the door and shaking the handle once more.
"I'm fine", you said, but it came out as nothing more than a whisper.
You forced yourself to go back to reading the letters, even though every fibre in your body told you to run. You cursed yourself for the hot panic that was searing through your veins, that was making it hard to focus. What kind of pathetic agent were you that you couldn't even keep your cool in a situation like this.
The first time you read it, you almost didn't register it. It was only after a few more lines that your brain caught up and you realised that this was it.
"They strangled him", you called out, your cracking voice sounding just like Lord Blackwood's might have in his last moments.
At your words, there was a gust of wind that pulled on your clothes and whirled up the letters you had carelessly thrown aside.
"Is there more?!" Lucy yelled through the door and you flattened the letter on the ground, trying to hold it in place despite the supernatural wind growing stronger, and more books falling off the shelves and sliding over the carpet and the floorboards, some of them reaching unnervingly close to your circle of chains.
The static noise was getting unbearable loud, filling your head and making it difficult to keep your eyes open when you just wanted to squeeze them shut and curl up in a ball.
"The source needs to be in there somewhere!", Lockwood shouted. The banging on the door had stopped. The beam of light from your flashlight cut through the darkness as you shone it around the room, desperate for any sort of hint of a source. But nothing was catching your eye until you turned around.
The wallpaper was glittering under the glow of the light, tiny ice crystals blooming on the rough surface, spreading further out.
"Lucy! The picture!", you cried, and you heard someone take off running. The wind roared, and you almost lost your footing, flailing your arm around in an attempt to hold onto something, but your hand grasped at nothing. Another blast of wind, and this time it was strong enough to blow the chains apart. You screamed.
And then, just like that, silence.
You stood in the dark, breathing heavily, feeling strangely empty as the static noise was still echoing in your head.
The door burst open, and as soon as arms wrapped around you from behind, it was like all strength left your body at once and your knees buckled.
"Are you okay?", Lockwood asked breathlessly, holding you up.
You nodded feebly, and he released you as soon as you found your footing again.
He raised his flashlight and grimaced. "That cut doesn't look good."
Just then, Lucy came rushing in. She hugged you tightly, gripping your shoulders after she stepped back.
"I'm so glad you're alive!"
You smiled weakly. You felt like a truck had run you over.
"Where is George?" The question slipped past your lips before you could stop yourself. As much as you were trying to fight it, it did sting a little that he didn't seem to care enough to come check on you. Part of you had even hoped he'd be the first through that door, hoped for his arms around you instead of Lockwood's.
Lucy grimaced. "He uhm… he's not been doing so well for the past few minutes. We think it might be the after-effects of the boneglass."
George was sitting slumped against one of the bookshelves, staring off into the distance with an empty expression. You fought the urge to kneel down next to him, instead you extended your hand.
He looked up at you, and for a few moments, you just stared at each other, before he slowly raised his arm. His hand settled in yours, and you were surprised by how cold it was.
You helped him stand, and time seemed to slow down as he stood close to you, studying your face.
"You are hurt." It wasn't a question, but it did pull you out of the trance you were in and made you take a step back. His hand slipped out of yours.
"It's not that bad. What is wrong with you?" That question wasn't entirely just about the state he was in, but he couldn't have known that.
He shrugged. "Boneglass. I was just feeling … dizzy."
"Hey lovebirds, get over here", Lockwood called from the desk, where he had gathered all the letters.
Never before had a comment from Lockwood felt so much like cruel mockery, and yet you could still feel yourself blushing. But you didn't want to see George's reaction to that or to Lockwood's stupid comment, so you made it a point to not look at him and went to stand next to Lucy.
A glance at the watch on your wrist told you that it was just after 2 am.
"I think I know what happened here", Lockwood said and pointed out a few paragraphs on the pages spread out in front of him.
"Blackwood's daughter has some sort of a secret affair with the butler and they needed Blackwood out of the way. What do you do with an unpleasant parent?" He looked around, but no one was saying anything.
His finger came down on one of the letters. "That's right, you kill them. Strangled in this case, it seems like. For whatever reason, they felt the need to write that down in excruciating detail."
"But why would they leave these letters here?" asked Lucy.
Lockwood shrugged. "I have no idea. I had already guessed that they moved something out of the way last night and that's why they held us off until tonight, but I have no idea what and why it wasn't these letters." He picked up one of the pages. "They strangled him, so there is no murder weapon. Would explain why the painting was the source."
You realised that in your panic to read all the letters to find a way out of the room you hadn't really taken anything in.
"And why are we here?"
Lockwood was picking up one letter after the other, scanning it quickly. At that moment, he was reminding you of George.
"They want to sell the manor and leave with the money. Can't sell a haunted house, so we're here to remedy that. Obviously, they can't tell us they are responsible for the haunting, so the butler called me, pretending to be Lord Blackwood and then they just tell us he's sick so we don't ask any questions."
He grinned at you brightly. "But we're Lockwood and Co, so of course we're asking questions. I say we gather our stuff, sneak outside, call DEPRAC, and give them these for a little light reading." He gathered up the letters and stuffed them into the inside pocket of his coat.
⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘
The rest of the night went by in a blur. After you stepped outside and took a few deep breaths of the crisp cold night air, you realised just how exhausted you were. Everything that had happened tonight had left you with aching limbs, racing thoughts and a deep sadness. You managed to push it all down while you were sitting and waiting for DEPRAC, while they were dealing with Genevieve and her murderous lover, while a medic patched up the cut over your eyebrow, even while you sat in one of the DEPRAC vans that took you and your equipment back to London.
It was only after they had dropped you off at 35 Portland Row, after you had turned down Lockwood's suggestion for all of you to drink a cup of tea before going to sleep, after you had changed into your pyjamas and had crawled under your covers, clutching them to your chest in the darkness of your room. Only after that the tears came, silently running down your cheeks as you replayed the scene over and over in your mind.
Having George say these words to you must have been the cruellest joke the universe ever played on you. It was a ten-second glimpse into the life you wished for yourself, a beautiful fantasy that had been shattered immediately after by none other than George himself. And he probably hadn't even noticed. He probably didn't think twice about it.
⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘
You spent the entire next day in your bed. You didn't even open your blinds, instead keeping the room dark and slipping in and out of sleep every few hours. You ignored Lucy and Lockwood knocking on your door, and when George knocked, you just pulled your blanket over your head and waited until you heard his footsteps on his way back down the stairs. You did get up to get the cup of tea and the pile of toasts he had left in front of your door though.
By the time you heard George and Lucy go to their rooms in the evening, you had made your decision. You wanted to cry just thinking about it - but deep down you knew it was the right decision for you. You couldn't keep going like this.
And so you wrapped yourself in your dressing gown and snuck down the stairs to the library, where Lockwood sat on the couch reading yesterday's paper.
You knocked tenderly on the half-open door to alert him of your presence and closed it behind you after you entered.
Lockwood glanced at you and smiled, but it was quickly replaced by a concerned frown as he noticed your expression. He folded the paper and set it aside, then motioned you to sit on the couch.
"Everything alright?", he asked gently.
You felt a lump in your throat as you sat down, clasping your hands in your lap and digging your nails into your palms, hoping to get through this without bursting into tears.
"I want to quit."
thank you for reading <3
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