#i gave her tights too because she deserves them

[mercvry-glow]

Hey Lover

parings. jack abbot x younger!reader

warnings. age gap (jack late 40s, reader late 20s/early 30s), hospital setting, reader has a sprained ankle, reader isn't treated the best by the ed, nothing too serious overall, reader is considered to be bratty, some suggestive parts but it’s just comments between reader and jack, let me know if there's anything else!

notes. I love jack and younger reader, I felt there was a lot of me in this one lol! since so many of you requested this hopefully y'all don't find her demeanor annoying, I read it as the reader is a bit scared and defensive knowing that the ed doesn't particularly like her for whatever reason. but as always please enjoy and feedback is appreciated as always!

wc. 2200+

You could admit you weren’t the easiest person to get along with.

You liked your oat milk lattes extra hot, your lip gloss to match your water bottle, and your schedule planned down to the exact minute. You didn’t do chaos. And people around here—meaning, this godforsaken hospital where your fiancé worked twelve-hour trauma shifts—tended to mistake that kind of organization for being high-maintenance.

And Fine. You were a little high-maintenance. But you weren’t mean… And you definitely didn’t deserve to be sitting in some back hallway of the PTMC ER with your hair still in a claw clip, mascara running down your cheeks, and one ankle the size of a grapefruit.

You sighed dramatically, shifting on the gurney. Your baby blue workout hoodie was streaked with tears and did little to hide the shame you felt in this very moment. Your phone was cracked. And worst of all—your favorite pilates socks had blood on them.

Today was not your day.

“I’ve been here for forty-five minutes,” you muttered, crossing your arms and wincing when your movement tugged your wrapped foot. “And if one more person tells me to ‘just wait,’ I’m going to scream.”

The nurse behind the little desk—tight bun, tired eyes, and feeling high and mighty—didn’t even look up. “Ma’am, we’re triaging other trauma patients—”

“I am also a trauma,” you said, gesturing at your foot. “Just because it happened in pilates at 5am and not a bar doesn’t make it less traumatic. I heard a crack.”

From across the nurses’ station, someone mumbled, “No wonder Dr. Abbot keeps her a secret.”

You froze. The room spun a little, but not from the injury.

Jack.

You blinked hard, biting down on your tongue. You knew what they thought. What they always thought. That Jack Abbot—with his calm voice, sharp eyes, and salt-and-pepper curls—couldn’t possibly be serious about you. That you were too much. Too loud. Too shiney. Too young.

But he’d never made you feel like that. Not once.

You tucked your phone tighter under your arm and exhaled through your nose, preparing to wait another hour—until the door to another room swung open into the hallway.

There he was.

Jack in a white long-sleeve under his scrubs, his stethoscope around his neck, and his hazel eyes already scanning the room. When he saw you—half-dressed like a ladies health magazine, clutching a cracked phone and looking entirely out of place—his whole face changed.

“ Are you serious right now?” he muttered, storming toward you. “Why didn’t anyone tell me you were here?”

“She didn’t ask for you,” someone muttered.

Jack didn’t even look at them. He was crouched in front of you already, gently brushing his hand over your shin, checking the wrap someone had done.

“I didn’t want to bother you,” you said quietly, lip wobbling just a bit. “It’s just an ankle. And, like… mild humiliation.”

His jaw ticked. “It’s not just anything if you’re hurt.”

“I fell trying to do that stupid split thing you like—”

He gave you a look.

“Okay, gracefully collapsed trying to do the split thing. And my instructor screamed, so then I screamed, and I cried in front of a room full of strangers.”

“Sweetheart.”

“I ruined my socks.”

Jack sighed and kissed the top of your knee, just above the bandage. “What am I going to do with you?”

“Take me home? Get me out of this place in a timely manner?”

His laugh was quiet but real, and he kissed you again, this time on the forehead.

Behind him, someone coughed pointedly. He stood, slowly.

“She needs a reevaluation. Now.”

The nurse gave a half-hearted “x-ray is backed up” shrug.

Jack’s tone turned colder than ice. “Then she’s priority after critical. Or get someone who cares and tell them why I’m walking my injured fiancée to get care, myself.”

That got people moving.

Jack helped you up, one arm tight around your waist. You clung to him dramatically, batting your lashes like you weren’t totally milking the attention—but under it, you could feel his heart racing.

“You okay?” you asked, glancing up.

His voice dropped low. “Not until you are.”

You smiled, a little smug. “Told you pilates was dangerous.”

He just shook his head, holding you closer. “I should’ve never let you sign up.”

“You didn’t let me. You said, and I quote, ‘try not to flirt with your instructor this time.’”

“Yeah, well. Next time I’m going with you.”

“You in pilates?” You snorted. “Please. Your hips are too tight.”

“I have very flexible hips, actually.”

“Oh, really?”

“Bed's ready,” a night shift nurse called.

You smirked at Jack. “To be continued.”

He groaned. “This is why they all hate you.”

You winked. “They only hate me ‘cause you love me, other than that I don’t know.”

And by the way he looked at you—like he’d walk through fire just to kiss you again—you knew you were absolutely right.

The space they gave you wasn’t fancy, but it was private. Probably borrowed from someone in observation or cleared just for Jack’s peace of mind. He didn’t say a word as he helped you onto the bed, tucking a blanket over your legs like you were made of glass.

“I’m not dying,” you said, wrinkling your nose as he fussed with your ankle.

“You’re really annoying,” he muttered. But his hands were gentle, steady as always, checking your range of motion and rewrapping your foot with crisp, even lines.

You watched him work, the little furrow between his brows, the tiny flecks of gold in his hazel eyes that always showed up when he was worried. His curls were a little messy, probably from running his hand through them a hundred times today, and his sleeves were pushed up, exposing the veins on his forearms you’d once drunkenly referred to as "your Roman Empire."

“You’re staring,” he said without looking up.

“You’re so hot,” you replied simply.

Jack huffed but didn’t argue.

He finished taping your ankle and stood, brushing your hair back from your face. “You’re gonna be okay. It’s a sprain, not a break, but you need to stay off of it for at least a week. Actually stay off it, not your version of resting.”

“Which is?”

“Pilates in a boot.”

You grinned. “Sounds like a challenge.”

“I’ll cancel your gym membership myself.”

You gasped. “You wouldn’t.”

“I pay for it, try me.”

You didn’t win that stare-down. He kissed your forehead again instead.

“Get some rest. I’ll check in after I get off here in a few.”

You pouted. “You’re leaving me?”

Jack gave you a look. “I’m an attending. I can’t just disappear mid-surge.”

“Tell Robby I said please, I saw him walking around.”

That got a faint laugh out of him. “No more sass. Be good.”

You made an angelic face. “I’m always good.”

He was halfway out the door when you added, “And please ask someone if they can bring me an ice water! Or tell them you’ll do it.”

“I just said—”

You batted your lashes.

Jack muttered something under his breath and disappeared into the hallway.

Twenty minutes later, Jack was standing near the lockers, hands on hips, when Robby stepped in with two bottled waters and a raised eyebrow.

“Your girl okay?” he asked, handing Jack one.

Jack nodded, cracking the lid open. “Sprained her ankle trying to impress a pilates instructor, apparently.”

“Sounds like her.” Robby sat beside him, stretching his legs out with a sigh. “She looked like she was about to throw hands when the nurse offered her ice chips.”

Jack huffed out a quiet laugh. “That tracks.”

“She really hates being fussed over, huh?”

Jack shot him a look.

“Okay,” Robby amended, hands up in mock surrender, “unless it’s by you.”

Jack didn’t argue. He leaned back against the wall, letting the silence hang a minute before Michael spoke again—more careful this time.

“She’s got some… strong energy going on today.”

Jack didn’t respond right away. Just glanced down at the bottle in his hands, then back up. “You don’t have to pretend you like her, man.”

“I’m not trying to judge,” Robby said, more gently. “You know that. I just… never pictured you with someone so… you know.”

“She’s also the first person I’ve met who makes me laugh like hell and still checks if I’ve eaten when I forget to eat. And she always puts me first. Even when it costs her.”

Robby’s brow creased slightly, more thoughtful than anything. “I get that. I do.. She always asks if I’m looking after you, like I’m the one keeping you alive.”

Jack’s lips twitched. “You kinda are.”

“Okay, but—” Robby pointed a finger at him. “She brings you little smoothie things and reminds you to call your sister and randomly knows what you need on your worst days. I see that. Doesn’t mean I fully get her, but I’m not against her.”

Jack finally relaxed, his shoulders dropping a bit.

“She’s not always easy,” he admitted. “But she’s real. And when it’s just the two of us? She’s… soft. Like, the kind of soft I didn’t know I wanted. She brings out all this stupid shit in me.”

Robby tilted his head. “You’re kind of a sap.”

“Don’t tell anyone,” Jack deadpanned.

Robby smirked, bumping his shoulder. “Your secret’s safe with me.”

Just then, a nurse poked her head around the corner, clearly amused. “Dr. Abbot? Your fiancée says she can’t find her lip balm and her lips feel like they’re about to crack. She says quote—‘You know the one I mean.’”

Jack didn’t even blink. “Little pink tube, side pocket of her purse. Tell her I’ll grab it.”

The nurse grinned and ducked back out.

Robby blinked slowly. “You really do know her inside out.”

Jack shrugged, already standing. “She’d do the same for me.”

As he disappeared down the hall, Robby watched him go, still smiling. He might not fully understand your dynamic—but he didn’t have to. Jack was happy, the girl loved him, and honestly? That was more than enough as a friend. 

A bit later you had barely settled into your space—fluffy blanket over your lap, perfectly stacked hospital pillows behind your back, and a comically large cup a nurse had left on the tray—when a soft knock hit the doorframe.

You glanced up, lip gloss freshly reapplied despite the fact you were still in the hospital.

Michael leaned in with his hands in the pockets of his blue hoodue, looking not nearly as judgmental as you were expecting.

“Hey,” he said, voice lower than usual. “Jack’s finishing up his last consult, so I figured I’d check in. How’s the ankle?”

You gave a bright (but very practiced) smile. “Swollen, hideous, and humiliating. But I’m surviving. Thank you.”

Robby chuckled lightly, stepping further in. “Well, the good news is you’ll walk again.”

“Oh, thank god. I was already mentally rearranging my living room for crutches.” You paused, then added, “I promise I wasn’t being dramatic earlier. I just… hate being in here. Even not as a patient, hospitals just freak me out.”

His brow lifted slightly. “You hang around one enough.”

“Yeah, but usually I’m here with iced coffee and lunch for my fiance, not a bum ankle.”

He smiled at that, leaning a shoulder against the wall. “You really do come in like a hurricane when Jack’s on shift.”

You looked down, suddenly fidgeting with the edge of the blanket. “Yeah. Sorry if I’ve been too much. I know I’m not exactly… subtle.”

Robby tilted his head. “You’re not.”

You blinked, and he quickly added, “But you clearly care about him. And that counts for a lot.”

You looked up again, surprised.

“I wasn’t sure at first,” he continued, more thoughtful now. “You’re different from what I imagined for him. But then I saw how he talks about you. How he looks at you.”

You felt your face heat up.

“He’s a lot lighter with you around,” Robby said simply. “Which is wild, because I didn’t even think that was possible.”

You couldn’t help but smile. “He’s not really the warm-and-fuzzy type.”

“No, but he’s yours,” Robby said with a small shrug. “And that seems to be working out.”

You stared at him for a second, then leaned back against your pillows. “So… you don’t hate me?”

“I never hated you,” Robby said honestly. “I just didn’t know you.”

You let out a soft breath, genuinely touched. “Well. You’ve officially been upgraded to my favorite of Jack’s coworkers.”

“That’s a low bar,” he quipped. “But I’ll take it.”

The curtain rustled suddenly and Jack poked his head in, curls messier than beforer and his hazel eyes immediately scanning you.

“You good?” he asked.

“She’s fine,” Robby said before you could speak, already backing up toward the door. “Being brave. And dramatic. But mostly brave.”

Jack gave you a long, warm look. “Dramatic is her default.”

You stuck your tongue out at him.

Michael was already halfway out the door. “Later, lovebirds.”

Once it was just the two of you, Jack pulled up a chair beside your bed and took your hand.

“You okay?”

“I will be,” you said softly. “Especially now that I know your work bestie doesn’t think I’m a total disaster.”

Jack smirked. “You are a total disaster. But you’re my disaster.”

You rolled your eyes but couldn’t hide the smile tugging at your lips.

“Shut up and kiss me, Dr. Abbot.”

And he did.

mercvry-glow 2025

[shy9-29]

From Dare To You ★ 심재윤

“a part two to love, lies, and sim jake” - enhypen campus series

🌿 After YN found out about the bet, Jake apologized, revealing he ended it before asking her out for real. Though hurt, she played along, but his constant effort and genuine care slowly broke through her walls, and trust began to rebuild between them.

🏷️ - @kristynaaah @firstclassjaylee @sheseung @c9b7luv @bswrldd @kiikiisblog @memyselfandkoo @k1ttyjwon @bloomiize @titttuaf @sunghoon-cam @xnatqq @azzy02 @rairaiblog @chvconn3 @wonzzziezzzz @blvengene @gvtdoll @a3r4-for3ver @luvksnn @sunarin96 @aerispark @monoidol @starnaris @pinknjm @marimariiisblog @blckorchidd @pinknjm @melodiessvy @gyulune @marimariiisblog @bgyusgf @doririsstuff @enhastolemyheart @prkhoonlvr @miamoari @dearestdreamies

wc. 9.7k · masterlist · enha campus series · part one

You didn’t plan to see him again so soon.

But there he was sitting alone on the bleachers behind the field after school, hunched forward with his elbows on his knees, eyes cast downward like the weight of the past few days was finally too heavy to carry. He looked smaller somehow. Not physically, but… quieter. Like the version of him who used to light up every room had dimmed.

You hesitated. Part of you wanted to turn back, to leave things unfinished and avoid another scene. But your feet moved anyway, slowly, carefully, until you were standing in front of him.

He looked up, his eyes meeting yours. For a second, nothing was said—just the breeze brushing past and the silence between two people who didn’t know how to start again.

“I didn’t know,” you said finally, voice soft. “About the bet. That you ended it.”

Jake stared at you for a moment, jaw tense, eyes tired. “Would it have changed anything if you did?”

You bit the inside of your cheek. “Yeah. It would’ve.”

He gave a small, humorless laugh, then looked away. “Too late now, huh?”

“No,” you said quickly, sitting beside him before you could change your mind. “Maybe not.”

Jake didn’t say anything at first. Then: “I was an idiot, YN. For agreeing to that bet in the first place. For not telling you sooner. I thought I could control it—my feelings. Thought if I kept it casual, it wouldn’t mess everything up. But then it stopped being casual, and I didn’t know how to fix it without losing you.”

Your heart twisted. “Why didn’t you just tell me?”

“Because I thought you’d never believe me,” he admitted. “And I didn’t think I deserved a second chance. I’ve seen it happen to heeseung and it still keeps him up , I didn’t wanna take the chance with you.”

Jake stared ahead at the empty field, jaw tight, like he’d run out of words to say—or maybe like he was too afraid to say the wrong one.

You sat next to him, your voice low but sharp. “Then why did you come running back to me?”

His head turned toward you slowly. “Because I couldn’t stay away.”

You scoffed, shaking your head as a bitter laugh slipped past your lips. “Right. After everything. After the bet, after humiliating me in front of everyone, after pretending to care…”

“I wasn’t pretending,” Jake cut in, voice firmer now. “Not when I kissed you. Not when I asked you to be mine. Not when I stayed up all night hoping you’d text back.”

You looked away, jaw clenched. “You made me feel like I was something to win.”

Jake exhaled hard, like the guilt had been burning in his lungs. “I know. And if I could take it back, I would. All of it. The joke, the dare—everything that hurt you. But the way I feel about you now?” He looked at you then, eyes soft but intense. “That’s never been a lie.”

You didn’t respond right away. Your throat was tight, like the words wanted to come out but didn’t know how.

Finally, you muttered, “I don’t know if I can believe you.”

Jake nodded slowly, not pushing. “Then don’t. Not yet. Just… let me show you.”

And for once, he didn’t try to close the distance between you. He didn’t reach out. He didn’t beg.

He just sat there, quiet and waiting.

Like he finally understood that trust wasn’t something he could ask for—he had to earn it.

And so that’s what he did.

The next couple of days, Jake didn’t text you paragraphs or blow up your phone with apologies. He didn’t show up unannounced or try to corner you in the hallways. He didn’t force you to talk when you weren’t ready.

Instead… he showed up differently.

He waited outside your classroom after the bell, never too close, never pushing—just there. Quiet, patient, like a steady presence.

He started walking slower when he saw you down the hall, letting you pass instead of calling out your name.

He laughed a little softer when your friends made jokes, stealing glances your way but never trying to pull you in unless you wanted to be.

He wasn’t perfect. He still fumbled sometimes, caught himself staring too long, said your name like it was still his favorite word—but he didn’t try to take anything more than what you were willing to give.

And even if you didn’t say much, even if your heart still felt bruised and hesitant, you noticed. You noticed it all.

Because Jake Sim wasn’t trying to win a bet anymore.

He was trying to win you.

And this time, it wasn’t about pride.

It wasn’t about proving something to his friends.

It was about proving something to you.

That he was serious.

That he meant it.

That he’d stay—without the game.

It was subtle at first.

You didn’t even realize the way your walls had started to shift until you caught yourself smiling at something he said in passing. Something stupid—probably about his dog or how he nearly tripped over a soccer ball in gym. But your lips had curved before you could stop them, and when you realized he saw it, you quickly looked away.

Jake didn’t call attention to it. He just smiled too. A quiet, knowing one. And kept walking.

Later, you found a note in your locker. No big dramatic gesture—just a piece of notebook paper folded in half.

Hope today’s better than yesterday. That’s all.

— J

You stared at it longer than you’d admit. Kept it tucked into your sleeve. Didn’t text him, didn’t mention it, but the knot in your chest loosened—just a little.

At lunch, Yuna nudged you. “He’s trying,” she said gently, not with that sharp tone she’d used before. “Really trying.”

You didn’t answer. You just watched him from across the courtyard, laughing with Sunghoon and Jay—but every now and then, glancing your way.

Like he was making sure you were still there.

By Thursday, you found yourself slowing your steps so he could catch up.

By Friday, you sat next to him during study period and pretended not to notice when his hand brushed against yours on the desk.

He didn’t push. He didn’t ask. He just looked at you with those soft, unguarded eyes and smiled like that moment was enough.

And somehow…

For now, it was.

Saturday came, and with it, a text from Jake.

simjyn:

Hey. I was gonna go for a walk later. Clear my head. You don’t have to come but… if you do, I’ll bring snacks.

You stared at the message for a good ten minutes. No pressure, no “we need to talk,” no expectations—just Jake, being soft and careful. The kind of boy you weren’t sure existed weeks ago.

You didn’t reply right away. But a few hours later, there you were—hoodie on, hands in your pockets, meeting him just down the block.

He grinned when he saw you. “You came.”

You shrugged. “You said snacks.”

He held up a bag of your favorite chips with a lopsided smile. “I don’t lie about the important things.”

The two of you walked in comfortable silence for a while. The streets were quieter than usual, the air warm with the smell of spring. Every now and then your shoulders would brush, and each time, Jake would glance over, like he was still surprised you hadn’t pulled away.

“I meant what I said,” he said eventually, voice softer than usual. “About showing you. I don’t want to screw this up.”

You didn’t answer at first. The sidewalk was cracked and uneven beneath your feet, like your thoughts.

Finally, you spoke. “You already did screw it up, Jake.”

He flinched, just a little. But he nodded. “Yeah. I know.”

You turned to him then. “So don’t just tell me. Show me. Keep showing me. Not just this week. Not just while you feel bad.”

Jake stopped walking. “I will.”

You searched his face for any sign of hesitation, but there wasn’t any. Just him. Raw and real.

He took a careful step closer. “Can I—?” he started to ask, but stopped himself.

And for once, you closed the space between you.

Just a little. Just enough to let him know that maybe—maybe—this was the beginning of trust again.

Jake didn’t touch you. He didn’t try to hold your hand or pull you into some movie-perfect kiss. He just smiled, slow and genuine, like that one small step meant everything.

And honestly?

It kind of did.

The next week passed like the world had slowed down—but in a good way.

There were no dramatic declarations, no big speeches. Just… Jake.

Sitting next to you during free period, not too close, but close enough.

Sliding you a note in class with the dumbest doodle imaginable—your name in bubble letters with a little crown on top.

Sending you a playlist that started off upbeat and chaotic, but slowly drifted into soft, late-night kind of songs you didn’t expect from him.

Smiling like he had a secret every time your eyes met in the hallway.

And you?

You found yourself waiting for it. For him.

You told yourself you were being cautious. That you hadn’t forgiven him yet. That your heart was still bruised from what he’d done.

But when he laughed? It didn’t hurt.

When he said your name? You didn’t flinch.

And when you caught yourself smiling—again—you didn’t look away this time.

It was Friday afternoon when he found you sitting alone near the back of the school garden. The spot you always went to when you needed to think.

He didn’t say anything at first. Just sat down beside you and handed you an iced drink—your favorite.

“I like this,” he said after a minute, eyes on the sky. “Just… being here. With you. No pretending. No games.”

You didn’t respond right away. The breeze was light, the sun warming your face.

“I still don’t know if I trust you,” you said quietly.

Jake didn’t flinch. “I’ll wait until you do.”

You looked over at him. Really looked. And maybe for the first time, you believed it.

Not because of his words.

But because of how he’d changed when he stopped trying to win you—

And started trying to deserve you.

So you leaned back, sipped your drink, and said nothing else.

But Jake’s smile widened.

Because silence from you now?

Wasn’t rejection.

It was peace.

And maybe, just maybe… it was the start of forgiveness.

By Monday, the whispers had started.

It wasn’t just glances anymore—it was full-on stares, hushed giggles, and not-so-subtle side-eyes when you walked into a room.

You were halfway to your seat in homeroom when you heard it.

“Do you think she did something to him?”

“She had to. There’s no way Jake Sim just—changes.”

“Dude hasn’t flirted with anyone in weeks. Not even once. He’s not even posting thirst traps anymore.”

“That’s, like, unheard of. What did she do? Put a spell on him?”

You rolled your eyes as you sat down, biting the inside of your cheek to keep from saying something.

Apparently, the student body couldn’t comprehend that Jake Sim—the golden boy, the walking distraction, the school’s certified heartbreaker—might’ve just… grown up. Or fallen for someone. Or both.

You heard someone mutter behind you, “Honestly? Kind of iconic if she did. Like… imagine taming Jake.”

The seat beside you stayed empty. You glanced at it without meaning to.

Jake’s chair. Still untouched. Still waiting for him to come back.

And even though you weren’t sure what this was between you and him yet—or where it was going—hearing the way people talked made you feel something you hadn’t expected:

Protective.

Because sure, maybe Jake had been a reckless flirt once. Maybe he hadn’t been the safest person to care about. But he was trying. He was changing.

And he deserved the chance to do that without being a punchline.

Even if you weren’t ready to say it out loud, you knew it deep in your gut—

Whatever you and Jake were building… it was already real enough for people to notice.

Back home, everything felt quieter without him.

You didn’t realize how much space Jake had taken up in your day until he wasn’t there to fill it. His empty seat in class, the silence where his random texts would pop up, the way your phone didn’t light up with his name the second you unlocked it—it was strange.

You hated to admit it, but… you missed him.

More than you wanted to.

You found yourself hovering over his contact a dozen times, thumb lingering on the call button. What would you even say? You still didn’t know how you felt. Still didn’t know if you were ready to let yourself fully trust him again.

But that didn’t stop your heart from aching.

So, one night—when the silence in your room felt too loud and the thoughts in your head wouldn’t shut up—you caved. You tapped call.

It rang once. Twice.

Then—“Hello?”

His voice was raspy, low. He sounded half-asleep. You glanced at the time. 4:02 AM in Australia.

“Oh my god—Jake, I’m sorry,” you blurted. “I didn’t mean to wake you up. I’ll call you back later, just go back to sleep—”

“No,” he said quickly, voice still heavy with sleep but suddenly more alert. “No, stay. Please. I wanna stay on the call. For you? Always.”

You went quiet, swallowing down the guilt that rose in your chest.

“Are you sure?”

“Yeah,” he breathed, a smile tugging into his voice. “Hearing your voice is already better than sleep.”

You let out a soft laugh, shaky and a little embarrassed. Then, without really meaning to—you started talking.

Not about anything huge. Just the little stuff. The rumors at school. How Kazuha almost knocked over a vending machine trying to get a free soda. How the cafeteria ran out of your favorite chips and it weirdly ruined your day more than it should’ve.

Jake didn’t interrupt. Didn’t talk over you. He just listened—soft, warm, awake only because you needed him.

And eventually, your words grew quieter. Slower.

“I didn’t think I’d miss you this much,” you admitted, your voice barely above a whisper. “It’s stupid. After everything, I should still be mad. And I am. But… I miss you anyway.”

There was a pause. Then his voice, low and soft through the speaker:

“I miss you too. Every second. Even the ones I’m supposed to be sleeping through.”

You smiled, curling deeper into your blanket, heart beating too fast for how calm your voice sounded.

Maybe this wasn’t forgiveness.

Maybe it was just… a step toward it.

But for now, lying in bed and hearing his sleepy breath through the phone—

It was enough.

The next day, the evening settled in quietly—soft rain pattering against your window, the smell of shampoo still lingering in the air as you curled up in bed in your oversized hoodie. Hair damp, phone warm in your hand, you finally gave in and called him again.

Jake picked up almost instantly, like he’d been waiting.

The screen lit up with his face, a sleepy smile tugging at his lips. His hair was a little messy, eyes a little puffy—he looked tired, but the kind of tired that made him look softer.

Then he paused.

You tilted your head. “What?”

Jake blinked, then bit his lip, trying not to grin. “Nothing,” he said, voice all low and lazy. “You’re just… cute like that.”

You rolled your eyes, pulling your hoodie closer. “Like what?”

He laughed quietly. “Like that. All soft and cozy. I dunno. It’s just…” He shrugged. “I’d like to see you in my hoodie one day.”

Your stomach did this stupid little flip, but you masked it with a scoff. “You’d probably never get it back.”

“That’s the point,” he said, eyes shining with something gentle.

You looked away for a second, trying not to let the smile win—but it crept in anyway. You hated how easy it was to slip into this, how warm his voice made you feel even when you were still trying to protect your heart.

Still… you didn’t change the subject.

Instead, Jake shifted the camera and suddenly, a golden blur popped into view.

“Oh my god,” you said, sitting up. “Is that Layla?”

Jake beamed, gently scratching behind the ears of his border collie. “Yup. She’s been sulking without me. But she likes calls with you.”

Layla barked softly, tail wagging, and it made something in you melt.

You smiled quietly. “She’s so pretty.”

Jake looked back at the screen. “She’d love you.”

You hesitated for a beat, watching him, the way his hand rested gently on Layla’s fur, the way his face relaxed when he looked at you like that—like you were something precious.

“I’m still figuring things out,” you said softly.

Jake nodded without hesitation. “I know. And I’ll wait, remember?”

Your walls were still there. But they were softer now, worn down in places.

And maybe… just maybe… you were starting to believe he really meant it.

The next night, you weren’t sure why your fingers moved so quickly to hit call.

Maybe it was the silence of your room again.

Maybe it was the way his name lingered in your head all day.

Or maybe… you just wanted to hear his voice.

Jake answered with that same smile—bright and sleepy and just for you.

“Hey, pretty girl,” he said, voice a little hoarse, a little teasing. “You always call me right before bed. Not that I’m complaining.”

You rolled your eyes but couldn’t hide the smile tugging at your lips. “Maybe I just like seeing Layla.”

Jake laughed, turning the camera to show Layla curled up at his feet. “She missed you too.”

You hesitated for a second. Your heart picked up.

And before you could overthink it, before your brain could yell no—you said it.

“I missed you,” you said quietly, voice softer than usual.

Jake blinked. His smile didn’t falter, but you could see something shift behind his eyes—like the words landed a little deeper than either of you expected.

“You… what?”

You swallowed. “I said I missed you. Don’t make me say it again.”

His lips curled into something warm and slow, something real. “You have no idea how long I’ve been waiting to hear you say that.”

You looked away, cheeks heating. “Don’t let it go to your head.”

“I won’t,” he said, still grinning. “But just so you know… I missed you more.”

And just like that, something shifted.

Not huge, not loud—but it was there.

A new softness in the way you looked at each other.

A new kind of trust threading its way through the call.

You still weren’t all the way in.

But you were no longer holding all the way back either.

“Three more days,” Jake said through the screen, stretching his arms above his head with a groggy little yawn.

It was morning there, the sunlight barely creeping in through the curtains behind him, and his voice was still heavy with sleep. His hair was messy, sticking up in every direction, and you could hear Layla snoring faintly in the background.

You smiled at the sight, tucked under your blanket, phone propped up on your pillow.

“Not that I’m counting,” he added, eyes flicking up to meet yours through the screen with a crooked grin.

You raised a brow. “You literally said that exact thing yesterday. And the day before.”

“Okay, so maybe I am counting.” He shrugged, grin widening. “What can I say? I miss you.”

You rolled your eyes, but this time, you didn’t try to hide your smile.

Jake leaned closer to the camera, as if trying to get a better look at you through the screen. “What about you?”

“What about me?” you said, playing dumb even though your heart was already speeding up.

He tilted his head, voice soft. “You still miss me yet?”

You let a pause hang in the air for just a second longer than necessary before you whispered, “Maybe.”

Jake let out a low laugh, running a hand through his messy hair. “That’s all I get? A maybe?”

You bit your lip, trying to look annoyed, but the truth was written all over your face. You missed him more than you wanted to admit, and saying it out loud felt like giving up the last bit of control you had left.

But still, you added, “Three more days.”

Jake’s gaze softened. “Yeah… three more days, and I’m yours again.”

You looked at him, really looked at him—sleepy, sincere, and a little too perfect for his own good.

And in that moment, it hit you:

Maybe this was real after all.

And maybe… you were finally letting yourself believe it.

There was a soft knock on your door—three gentle taps, familiar and unhurried.

You peeled yourself off your bed, phone still warm in your hand from just hanging up with Jake. Padding over in your hoodie and socks, you opened the door.

Yuna stood there, arms crossed, an all-too-knowing smirk already forming on her face. “You’ve been on the phone every night,” she said, stepping inside without waiting for an invite. “I swear, I can hear you giggling through the wall.”

You flushed immediately. “I do not giggle.”

“Sure,” she said, plopping down dramatically onto your bed. “Just like how you’re totally not falling for him again.”

You shut the door behind her with a sigh, leaning your back against it. “He’s… different now. I don’t know, Yuna. I can’t explain it.”

Yuna looked at you for a long second, all the teasing melting into something more sincere.

“I believe he’s actually trying,” she said softly. “I do. I’ve been watching. He’s not flirting with every girl in sight. He hasn’t pulled one of his stupid ‘fuck boy’ games since the party. He’s… quieter. Focused. On you.”

You bit your lip, walking over to sit next to her on the edge of the bed.

“But I’m still pissed,” she added, voice firmer now. “What he did to you? The bet? The way he played it at first—that wasn’t okay. And I hate that you got caught up in it.”

“I know,” you said, eyes on your lap. “I hate it too. But it’s not like I didn’t see it coming. I just… didn’t expect him to change.”

Yuna was quiet for a second, then nudged your arm with hers. “You don’t have to forgive him all the way. Not yet. But you’re allowed to feel what you feel, okay? Even if it’s messy.”

You looked at her—your best friend, the one who always had your back even when you were being stubborn—and nodded.

“Thanks for not saying I told you so.”

“Oh, I totally told you so,” Yuna said with a smirk. “But I’m saying it with love.”

You laughed, and for the first time in a while, it felt real.

Later that night, after Yuna had left with a dramatic “Don’t stay up all night whispering sweet nothings,” you were back in bed, your thoughts buzzing.

You stared at your phone, thumb hovering over Jake’s name. It felt different now—not like you had to call him, but like… maybe you wanted to.

So you did.

The screen lit up, and after just one ring, his face appeared—eyes half-lidded, hoodie hood pulled halfway over his messy hair.

“Hey,” he said, voice all gravel and sleep. “Missed me already?”

You snorted, shifting under your blanket. “It’s only been a few hours.”

Jake smiled lazily. “Still counts.”

You studied him quietly for a moment—how tired he looked, how soft he sounded when he was with you. And for a second, it almost felt easy. Natural. As if things had always been like this between you.

“Yuna and I talked,” you said.

Jake blinked more awake. “Yeah? What’d she say?”

You shrugged. “She still doesn’t like what you did. But… she believes you’re trying.”

Jake leaned back against his pillows, hand dragging down his face. “I deserve that. I don’t expect anyone to forgive me right away.”

There was a pause. His eyes flicked back to the screen. “But you talked to her about me.”

You rolled your eyes playfully. “Don’t get cocky.”

“I’m not,” he said, grinning. “Just… glad.”

You rested your cheek on your pillow, watching him through the screen. “I don’t know what’s going to happen when you come back.”

“I do,” he said. “I’m gonna see you. And I’m gonna keep proving it—every day. No games. Just me.”

Your heart did that thing again—that annoying, traitorous flutter—but you didn’t stop it this time.

“Three days,” you whispered.

Jake smiled so softly it nearly knocked the air out of your lungs. “Yeah. Three days.”

And even with all the scars and hesitation…

You couldn’t help but feel a little bit like you were finally getting your heart back.

Two more days.

That’s what you’d told yourself all morning.

Just two more days and he’d be back. Two more days and you’d see him—really see him—not just on a screen.

But that night, something felt off.

Jake hadn’t called.

Not even a text.

Not a “good morning” or a sleepy voice note. Nothing.

You tried to brush it off at first.

He’s probably tired. Maybe busy with his family.

But the longer you stared at your phone, the more uneasy you felt.

You sent a message. Then another.

And when the little “Delivered” didn’t change to “Read”… you panicked.

You tried calling. Once. Twice. Then five more times.

Your fingers moved on their own—FaceTime.

The screen rang for what felt like forever before finally—

Click.

His face appeared, flushed and damp, water still running faintly in the background. Steam curled around the edges of the screen, and his wet hair was slicked back. He was clearly still in the shower, the camera only catching his bare shoulders and face, but—

“Y/N?” Jake asked, breathless. “Are you okay? What’s wrong?”

Your words came out rushed. “What’s wrong with you? Why weren’t you answering? I thought— I don’t know. I thought something happened—”

Jake blinked fast, clearly still trying to process. “Shit, I’m sorry. I was in the shower. I left my phone on the counter but it wouldn’t stop buzzing—I thought someone died.”

You breathed out a shaky laugh, rubbing your eyes. “You scared me.”

He frowned, guilt all over his face. “I didn’t mean to. I swear, I just— I was in the middle of shampooing and suddenly it’s like twelve missed calls—”

“I thought something happened to you,” you admitted quietly, voice softer now.

Jake’s brows knit together. He adjusted the phone slightly—still just his face and shoulders on screen—and his voice dipped low. “Hey… I’m okay. I promise. You’re not overthinking, alright? I should’ve texted you first. That’s on me.”

You nodded, but your heart was still racing.

He gave a crooked smile. “For what it’s worth… I’m kinda glad you spammed me.”

“Why?”

“Means you care,” he said simply. “That’s all I ever wanted.”

You looked at him, steam rising around his face, eyes tired but warm.

“Next time,” you muttered, “at least answer before I have a meltdown.”

Jake chuckled. “Deal.”

And even though the call wasn’t long…

And even though he was still in Australia, two days away—

You went to bed that night with your heart just a little more at ease.

The next morning, sunlight filtered through your blinds as you sat cross-legged on your bed, phone propped up in front of you. Jake’s sleepy face filled the screen—his hair a little messy, eyes soft and hooded from just waking up. It was night over there, but he still looked wide awake for one reason only.

You.

“Okay,” you said, holding up two options. “Sweater or hoodie?”

Jake squinted, rubbing at his eye. “Wait, wait, go back to the blue one. The knit one.”

You held it up again, amused. “This?”

“Yeah,” he said, already smiling. “That. With the jean shorts. You’ll look so good, I swear.”

You gave him a look. “You didn’t even see it on.”

“Babe,” he said, voice low and teasing, “I already know. Trust me.”

You rolled your eyes but tugged the sweater on anyway. It was cozy, a little oversized, sleeves dropping slightly past your wrists. Paired with your denim shorts and a quick glance in the mirror—you had to admit, he was right.

You turned back toward the screen to find Jake watching you with this quiet, lopsided grin on his face.

“What?” you asked, reaching for your mascara.

“Nothing,” he said. “Just… you’re really pretty.”

Your hand paused mid-air. “Shut up.”

“I’m serious,” he said, his voice softer now. “Like, stupid pretty.”

You bit back a smile and kept doing your makeup, feeling his gaze linger. He didn’t say anything for a bit, just watched you brush and blend and put on lip balm.

“I don’t care how jet-lagged I am tomorrow,” he said suddenly. “I’m staying up all night with you.”

You glanced at the screen.

He looked dead serious, head resting on his pillow but eyes locked on you.

“I’m gonna hug you so tight,” he said. “Like, refuse to let go tight. And kiss you until you tell me to stop.”

You pretended to be unbothered, but your smile gave you away.

He laughed gently. “That a yes?”

You shook your head, cheeks warm. “We’ll see.”

Jake yawned and nestled deeper into his sheets. “One more day…”

“One more,” you echoed, slipping on your shoes.

And as you grabbed your bag and headed out the door, you couldn’t help but feel the smallest flicker of excitement under your skin.

Just one more.

That whole day felt… weird. Good weird. Butterflies-in-your-stomach kind of weird.

Everything you did—walking through the halls, sitting through class, zoning out during lunch—had one repeating thought in the back of your mind: Jake’s coming back today.

You weren’t texting him much. Just a few updates here and there.

He sent you a photo of the plane window, captioned: Next stop: you.

And that alone had you stuffing your phone into your locker before you completely melted in front of everyone.

By the time school ended, your legs were bouncing nonstop on the bus ride home. You told yourself you were being chill. Normal. Totally not overthinking the fact that Jake Sim, the boy who once treated girls like trophies, who once made you a bet, was now someone you were waiting for.

And maybe even falling for.

You got home, changed into something a little more comfortable, and threw yourself on your bed—phone clutched in your hand like it was your lifeline.

Then, a text buzzed through:

@simjyn: Landed. Be at yours in 20. Don’t freak out.

Your heart immediately started freaking out.

You sat up fast, checked your reflection in the mirror, and tried to tell yourself it wasn’t that deep.

But it was.

Because this wasn’t just any visit.

This was the first time you were going to see him since everything—

Since the bet, the heartbreak, the slow rebuild.

Since the quiet confessions and late night calls and the I miss yous.

This was real.

And you were about to find out just how real it truly felt… when he was standing right in front of you.

The next twenty minutes felt like an eternity. You paced around your room, picking up and putting down random things—your phone, your makeup bag, your shoes—anything to distract yourself from the nervous energy building in your chest.

You had to keep reminding yourself to breathe. It’s just Jake. It’s just Jake.

But it wasn’t just Jake, was it?

It was the Jake. The one you’d spent weeks on edge about. The one who’d broken your heart and then somehow, miraculously, started piecing it back together. The one who told you things that made your stomach twist in ways you didn’t want to admit.

The doorbell rang, sharp and sudden, making your heart jump into your throat.

You took a steadying breath and headed for the door, barely holding it together. When you opened it, Jake was standing there, grinning like he owned the world. His hair was a little messy, his eyes bright, and there was a certain softness to him that you hadn’t expected.

“Hey,” he said, voice low, a little hoarse from the travel. “Miss me?”

You just stared at him for a beat before a small laugh escaped your lips. “Are you really gonna ask that after everything?”

Jake stepped inside, closing the door behind him as he swept you into a hug. The warmth of his body was instant—familiar, comforting—and for the first time in days, you felt like maybe this was right. Like maybe it wasn’t a mistake to want him around.

“I’m sorry,” he said, his voice quiet now, like he was finally ready to admit it. “I know I messed up, but I really meant it when I said I wanted to try. I’m here for you. I want this… with you.”

You pulled back slightly to look him in the eye, your heart still racing from the flood of emotions crashing over you.

“You’re not just saying that because you’re back now?” you asked, unsure if you were ready to hear the answer.

Jake’s hand cupped your cheek gently, his thumb brushing over your skin as if he was trying to memorize the feeling of you. “No. It’s not just because I’m here. I was never going to get off the plane without making things right. I wanted to be here. For you. For us.”

You couldn’t say anything, couldn’t form the words you needed to say. Instead, you stood there, eyes locked on his, and let the silence speak for you.

Finally, Jake leaned in, pressing his forehead to yours. “So, how about we just… try again? No games, no past stuff. Just us.”

You took in a shaky breath, then nodded.

“Okay,” you whispered.

Jake smiled, that familiar cocky grin back on his face, but there was something new in his eyes—something deeper. “Good,” he murmured before gently leaning in to kiss you.

It was soft, tentative at first, like he was waiting for permission. You let him, sinking into the kiss, and for that brief moment, it felt like all the tension and uncertainty of the past few weeks just melted away.

When he pulled back, he grinned again. “Tomorrow, I’m not jet-lagged. We’re going out. I’m taking you on a real date.”

You laughed softly, still in a daze from his kiss. “What’s a ‘real date’ to you?”

“Dinner, movie, some late-night snacks, maybe another kiss or two…” Jake shrugged. “The usual, but with less games.”

You smiled, the butterflies in your stomach fluttering in response. “I think I could get used to this.”

Jake just chuckled and pulled you close again, arms wrapping around you like he wasn’t planning on letting go anytime soon.

For the first time in what felt like forever, you allowed yourself to relax into him, knowing that whatever came next, you were finally ready to let things unfold.

Jake stood by the door, his hands casually in his pockets, looking around your room like he was trying to make himself comfortable. His eyes settled on you, and there was that same soft look he always had when he wasn’t being cocky or teasing.

“So, uh…” he started, rubbing the back of his neck, clearly a little unsure for the first time tonight. “Is Yuna here?”

You blinked, glancing toward the empty bed across the room. Yuna was out with her boyfriend, which left you alone in the apartment for the night. You’d assumed it would just be the two of you hanging out, but the way Jake asked made your heart skip a beat.

“Uh, no, she’s out with her boyfriend for the night,” you replied, biting your lip. “Why?”

Jake looked almost shy for a second, before shrugging. “Well, I was thinking… maybe I could stay here tonight?” His voice was hesitant, and for a moment, you weren’t sure if he was asking because he really wanted to, or if it was just the most natural thing for him to do. But when his eyes met yours, there was a sincerity there that made your stomach flutter.

You froze, a nervous little laugh escaping your lips. Stay the night?

You’d never had a guy stay over, especially not someone like Jake—someone who had once seemed like the kind of guy who’d never do anything that serious with someone. The idea of him being so close to you all night, even after everything, made your heart race. You couldn’t lie—it made you feel… nervous.

“Uh… yeah. Sure,” you said quietly, looking down at your feet, suddenly feeling shy.

Jake smiled, a bit relieved. “You sure? I don’t wanna make it awkward or anything, I just… I’ve missed being with you.”

Your heart melted at his words, but the nerves were still there, fluttering in your chest. “It’s not awkward,” you replied, glancing up at him. “I just… haven’t really had anyone stay over before. It’s… different.”

Jake stepped closer, his presence suddenly overwhelming in the best way. He reached for your hand and gently tugged you towards him, his smile soft and comforting. “We don’t have to do anything you’re not ready for, okay? I just wanna spend time with you. Just you and me.”

Your heart skipped a beat at his words. “Okay…” you whispered, not sure what to expect, but feeling strangely calm in his arms.

Jake’s lips pressed softly to your forehead, his hand still holding yours as he led you to the bed. “Then, how about we just watch a movie? You pick.”

You nodded, still feeling that little wave of nervousness, but somehow comforted by the way Jake treated you. This wasn’t a game anymore, and maybe it wasn’t the big leap you’d both once imagined. But it was a step, and that was enough.

As Jake settled next to you on the bed, you grabbed your remote and flipped through the options. He leaned against the headboard, pulling you closer, as you snuggled into his side, your heart beating just a little faster than normal.

You weren’t sure what the future held, but right now, in this quiet moment with Jake, you were willing to let the night unfold however it came.

And, even if you were nervous, you didn’t mind that he was here. With you.

The bed felt a little too big for just the two of you at first. You were trying to settle in, but your nerves kept making it awkward. You told yourself it would be fine, but the reality of him being here—so close, sharing this space with you—was a little more overwhelming than you expected.

Jake, on the other hand, was perfectly at ease. He’d clearly been in similar situations before, and the way he moved around the bed, adjusting the pillows, grabbing the blanket to throw over both of you, was effortless. He wasn’t even trying to be cautious. To him, it was just another night, another moment to relax.

You, on the other hand, lay stiff beside him, your back to him as you tried to make yourself comfortable without being too aware of his presence.

Then, you heard him yawn. “So… not bad, huh?” he said casually, turning on his side to face you, his gaze sharp and mischievous. “I mean, I know you’re probably not used to me being here, but don’t worry. I’m a great bedmate.”

You snorted, rolling your eyes even though you couldn’t hide a small smile. “Yeah, sure. No more moving around, okay? I’m trying to sleep.”

Jake grinned, clearly not even the slightest bit tired. “It’s only like 6 AM for me, babe. It’s morning in Australia, so I’m wide awake.” He paused for a second before adding, “And don’t worry. I’m not that bad. I’ll let you sleep.”

But he didn’t.

The next few minutes were a blur of shifting blankets and restless movements. Every time you thought you might finally fall asleep, Jake would adjust, making sure you felt every inch of his presence next to you. It was like he was a human radiator.

He kept moving, lightly bumping into you, his arm brushing against yours as he stretched and shifted again. You groaned, turning onto your back, trying to get some space. But Jake had other plans.

“C’mon, you can’t be mad at me forever,” he murmured, his fingers trailing over your cheek as he pinched it, all while giving you that infuriatingly sweet smile.

“Jake, I’m trying to sleep,” you snapped, your voice more irritated than you meant it to be.

“I know. You’re cute when you’re grumpy.” He grinned and leaned in to pinch your other cheek. “You’re like a little puppy when you’re all sleepy and mad.”

You huffed, swatting his hand away, but Jake only laughed softly, ignoring your protests. He pulled you in closer, wrapping his arms around you tightly, so there was no escape.

“What are you doing?” you muttered, fighting the urge to squirm out of his grip.

“I’m cuddling you. Isn’t that what you do when you’re sleeping next to someone? Come on, you can’t be mad at me. It’s cute when you’re mad.” Jake’s tone was teasing, almost too playful for how much he was invading your personal space.

You gritted your teeth, pushing at his chest weakly, but the more you tried to get away, the more he pulled you in. Eventually, you just gave up, sighing in frustration, the warmth of his embrace making you feel a little too comfortable despite your annoyance.

“Seriously, Jake, I’m not in the mood for this,” you muttered, trying to wiggle free.

But instead of letting go, Jake’s hand rested on the top of your head, gently stroking your hair, as if trying to soothe you. “Shhh. Just relax, okay? You’ve had a rough couple of days. Let me take care of you.”

His words were soft and gentle, but the way he was treating you, so carefree and natural, made everything feel more intense.

You felt your face flush. God, why was he so affectionate?

Your body was tense, but Jake didn’t seem to care. He continued his little “babying” routine, pinching your cheeks again, running his hand down your arm. “You really are cute when you’re trying to act tough.”

You shoved his hand away again. “Stop!” you groaned, your face burning now, both from being flustered and from how absolutely done you were with his teasing. But even as you spoke, you couldn’t help but feel your frustration shift into something else. The warmth of his closeness, the way he kept trying to make you laugh—despite how embarrassed you were—it was impossible to ignore the fact that a part of you was starting to soften.

Jake seemed to sense that too, because his smile softened, and for a brief second, he pulled back just enough to look at you seriously. “Okay, okay. I’ll stop… for now,” he said, but there was a playful glint in his eyes that told you he was far from done.

“Good,” you muttered, turning to face the other side of the bed.

Jake’s voice suddenly broke through the quiet, whining as he flopped onto his back. “I’m bored!” he groaned dramatically, his arms thrown wide as he stared up at the ceiling. “This is so lame. Can we do something fun?”

The frustration that had been simmering inside you all night bubbled over. You were already feeling irritable from his constant moving around and messing with you, and now this? You turned on your side, facing him, opening your mouth to let him have it.

“What do you mean, bored? You’re the one who—”

Before you could even finish your sentence, Jake was already leaning in, his lips pressing urgently against yours, silencing whatever you were about to say. His kiss was sudden and intense, catching you completely off guard. The feeling of his lips on yours made everything in you freeze. You were mad, frustrated, confused—and yet your body couldn’t help but respond to him.

You pulled away, heart pounding, cheeks flushed. “What the hell, Jake?” you gasped, feeling a little more than just flustered.

Jake smirked, a glint of mischief dancing in his eyes. “Shh,” he murmured, his voice low and playful. “You were about to yell at me, weren’t you? I just had to shut you up for a second.”

Before you could even process what was happening, he kissed you again. This time, it was slower, deeper, and when he pulled away, your lips felt tingling, your mind a little hazy.

But Jake wasn’t done. His hands slid to your waist, and in one fluid movement, he was over you, his body hovering above yours. His eyes locked onto yours with an intensity that made your heart race, and his breath was coming out in soft pants.

“Jake, wait, we can’t—” you tried to protest, but your voice faltered as his lips moved down to your neck, his body pressing closer to yours.

“I’ve been waiting for this,” he murmured, his voice thick with something you couldn’t quite place. He kissed you again, more passionately this time, as his hands moved to pull you even closer. Every touch, every kiss, only seemed to stir something deeper in you.

And even though you were still mad, flustered, and unsure, you couldn’t deny how badly your body responded to his closeness. The kiss deepened, the air between you thick with tension and the weight of everything unsaid.

It was like you couldn’t breathe without him, even as your mind screamed at you to pull away, to think clearly. But all you could focus on were his lips, his hands, and the way his body made yours burn with the kind of heat you hadn’t expected.

And in that moment, everything else just seemed to fade away.

You pulled away from Jake just enough to catch your breath, your chest rising and falling rapidly. The heat between you was still lingering, and your heart was hammering in your chest.

“Jake,” you whispered, your voice shaky. “Don’t… don’t leave any marks.”

Jake paused, looking down at you with a mischievous grin. “What, are you worried someone’s gonna see? You know, it’ll just be our little secret.”

You felt the tension rise in your chest. “Jake, seriously. No marks.”

But he only smirked, brushing a strand of hair from your face. “Too late,” he said softly, pressing his lips to your neck again. His kiss was soft at first, but there was a quiet intensity behind it, his lips leaving a trail of heat.

You gasped, a shiver running down your spine. “Jake…” you protested weakly, but his lips were already moving with more confidence, his hands gently pulling your body even closer to his.

“Shh,” he murmured between kisses, his breath warm against your skin. “You’re just too irresistible, you know that?”

You squeezed your eyes shut, trying to focus, but the way his mouth was slowly marking the sensitive skin of your neck made it hard to think. He didn’t seem to care about your protests, and in a way, you didn’t want him to. The moment was too intense for you to pull back now.

“Jake, I said no marks,” you breathed, but your voice wavered as his lips pressed harder against the skin of your neck.

But Jake’s grin never wavered as he kissed you once more. “I’ll be gentle,” he whispered teasingly. “But you know you like it.”

And before you could say anything else, he placed another kiss on your skin, and this time, it was more than just a light touch—it was deeper, more possessive.

You couldn’t help but groan, your body reacting in ways you hadn’t expected, and all of your careful reservations melted away beneath him.

Jake pulled away for a moment, his eyes dark with something you couldn’t quite place. He gave you a slow, almost predatory grin before sitting up slightly. Without saying a word, he pulled his shirt off over his head, tossing it carelessly to the side.

Your breat caught in your throat as your eyes involuntarily roamed over his toned chest. It wasn’t like you hadn’t seen him shirtless before, but now… this felt different. The way his body moved, the way he stared down at you with that same confident smirk—something about it was making your pulse quicken.

He watched you carefully, gauging your reaction. “You okay?” he asked, voice low, teasing.

You swallowed hard, trying to collect your thoughts, but they were all scrambled. “I—yeah,” you muttered, not entirely sure if you believed it yourself. You wanted to look away, to regain some control over the situation, but your eyes kept drifting back to his chest, his body in a way you couldn’t quite pull yourself away from.

“Good,” Jake murmured, leaning back down toward you, his body pressing against yours once more. “Because I’m not done yet.”

You barely had time to process his words before his lips were on yours again, pulling you into another kiss that made it harder to think about anything else. The way his bare skin felt against yours, the warmth of his body, everything seemed to blur into a haze of desire and confusion.

Despite all the hesitation still lingering inside you, your body reacted instinctively, leaning into the kiss and feeling that undeniable pull toward him. And for a moment, everything else—your worries, your reservations, your doubts—faded into the background.

Jake’s kiss deepened, the intensity of it making your pulse race, and you could feel every inch of him pressed against you. Your heart pounded in your chest, and despite your earlier protests, you couldn’t stop yourself from responding. He was so close now, his body hovering above yours, the heat from his skin making you feel both excited and nervous.

His hands gently moved to your sides, his fingertips grazing the skin just beneath your shirt, sending a wave of electricity through your body. You wanted to pull back, to stop it before it went any further, but every part of you—every instinct—wanted to stay.

“You don’t have to do anything you’re not ready for,” Jake murmured against your lips, as if sensing your hesitation. His voice was quieter now, softer, and you could feel the tenderness beneath the teasing tone.

You closed your eyes, trying to steady your breath. “I know,” you whispered back, your voice trembling slightly. But the tension was still there, between you both, thick and palpable.

Jake shifted slightly, lifting himself up just enough to look down at you. His hands gently cupped your face, his thumb brushing along your cheekbone. “I don’t want to rush you,” he said seriously, his eyes searching yours for some kind of reassurance. “But if you’re still unsure about anything… just say the word, and we’ll stop.”

For a brief moment, you felt the weight of your emotions, the confusion swirling inside you. You wanted to trust him. Part of you did. But then the doubt crept in—how much of this was him really caring about you? And how much was just him playing his usual game?

You tried to push those thoughts away, your hand reaching up to gently rest on his chest. “I’m just… trying to figure things out,” you confessed, your voice quiet but honest.

Jake gave you a small smile, his thumb now gently rubbing over your skin. “I get it. And I’m here, okay? Whatever you need.”

And for the first time in a long while, you felt like maybe, just maybe, there was a chance things could be different between you two. The trust you had been struggling to build was fragile, but it was there. And despite everything—despite how complicated things had gotten—you couldn’t ignore the warmth that spread through you when you were with him.

“Thanks,” you said softly, looking up at him. “I’m still figuring it out, but… I don’t want to let you go.”

Jake’s smile widened, his eyes softening as he leaned down to kiss you again, slower this time, as if trying to communicate everything he hadn’t said with his actions. It wasn’t perfect, and you weren’t sure where things were headed, but for once, you let yourself believe that maybe this could be something worth fighting for.

The air was heavy with the quiet aftermath, both of you lying side by side in the tangled sheets, the room still filled with the lingering warmth of the moment. You didn’t speak at first, unsure of how to break the silence. Your heart was still racing, the intensity of everything that had happened swirling in your mind, and a part of you felt vulnerable, exposed.

Jake lay on his back, one arm draped across his chest as he stared up at the ceiling, his chest rising and falling in slow, steady breaths. He seemed calm, but you could see the subtle shift in the way he was holding himself, like there was more going on behind his relaxed exterior than he was letting on.

You turned your head to look at him, your heart still pounding in your chest. “Jake…” your voice was quiet, almost hesitant, like you weren’t sure what you needed to say. You wanted to ask so many things, to know where you both stood now, but the words seemed stuck.

Jake turned his head to face you, his eyes meeting yours with a softness that you hadn’t seen before. He smiled, though it was more subdued than his usual cocky grin. “You okay?” he asked, his voice low and gentle, as if he was giving you space to process everything.

You nodded slowly, unsure of how to explain what you were feeling. “I think so,” you whispered, but the words still felt hollow, as if you didn’t fully believe them yourself.

Jake reached out, brushing a strand of hair from your face, his touch surprisingly tender. “You don’t have to say anything if you’re not ready,” he murmured, his thumb lightly grazing your cheek. “But I’m here. And I meant what I said. I don’t want to rush you into anything.”

You looked up at him, feeling the warmth of his words sink in, and for the first time in what felt like forever, you felt a little more grounded. Maybe you didn’t have all the answers, and maybe this wasn’t perfect, but you weren’t as afraid anymore.

“Thanks,” you said softly, your voice barely a whisper.

Jake’s smile grew, and he leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to your forehead. “You don’t have to thank me. I just want you to be happy,” he murmured.

For a moment, everything was still, the only sound the faint hum of the night outside. It was messy, and maybe you weren’t ready to give everything over just yet, but you knew one thing—things with Jake were no longer the same. Whether that was a good or bad thing, you weren’t entirely sure, but for now, it felt real.

And for the first time in a long while, you let yourself believe that maybe that was enough.

The peaceful silence that had settled between you and Jake was abruptly shattered by the sound of a door creaking open, followed by the unmistakable click of a lock being turned. You both froze, panic and confusion flashing across your faces.

The door swung open, and to your horror, Yuna and her boyfriend, Mark, stood in the doorway, eyes wide with shock. Yuna’s face was a mix of disbelief and surprise, while Mark’s expression was one of utter confusion.

“What the hell?” Yuna’s voice was sharp, but still laced with the shock of what she was seeing. “It’s three in the morning, why the hell are you two—?”

You scrambled to sit up, suddenly feeling exposed in a way you never thought possible. Jake, always cool and collected, sat up quickly too, his face just as surprised. He looked at you, then back at Yuna and Mark, clearly trying to gauge the situation.

“Yuna,” you stammered, your voice betraying the chaos that was suddenly consuming you. “I… um, it’s not what you think.”

Mark looked between the two of you, eyebrows raised. “Y/n and Jake…such a weird combo. What’s going on?”

Yuna stood frozen for a moment, then slowly closed the door behind her, her eyes never leaving you. “This is… Wow,” she muttered under her breath. “We should’ve knocked.”

“Yuna, it’s… it’s not like that,” you said, your words coming out rushed, a little too desperate for comfort.

Jake was the first to break the tension, his usual cocky grin slipping back onto his face. “No, actually, it’s exactly like that,” he said with a shrug, leaning back against the headboard, his tone casual as though it didn’t faze him in the slightest. “But, uh, a little privacy wouldn’t hurt next time, right?”

Yuna’s gaze flickered between the two of you, her face still unreadable, but Mark’s expression turned more thoughtful. “Alright, well, we can talk about this later,” he said, stepping back toward the door. “But seriously, next time, maybe lock it, yeah?”

Before either of you could respond, they turned and walked out, leaving you alone in the room again. The door clicked shut behind them, but the silence felt deafening now, far more overwhelming than before.

You let out a breath, your heart still racing. This wasn’t how you imagined the night going, but then again, nothing about this situation had been how you expected.

Jake leaned over, a playful smirk on his lips. “Well, that was a nice surprise, huh?”

You shot him a look, still feeling a little dazed. “I think I just want to sleep now,” you muttered, pulling the covers up around you, your face flushed with embarrassment.

Jake just chuckled, his hand resting on your arm. “I don’t blame you,” he said softly. “We’ve had enough excitement for one night.”

But even as you tried to settle back into the quiet, the strange events of the evening felt like a reminder of how everything between you had shifted. Whether it was for better or worse, you didn’t know yet. But one thing was for sure: it wasn’t over.

enha campus series

[rraveboy]

hey guys did you know i fucking love Annie Atsuo Hazy River. women likers come get y’all juice

[antl3rqueen]

fwb!vi gets jealous and fucks you in a party bathroom

18+

warnings: g!p vi. mirror sex. spanking. degrading.

you and vi had an agreement. you two would occasionally hook up whenever you needed to satisfy your urges. no strings attached and you guys had been doing just that. all was well... until tonight.

you were currently at a party on campus and you were having a great time. you had had a few drinks with your friends and you were now making out with a cute girl. vi was at this party too, watching you make out with some random chick. she shouldn't feel jealous because she's done the same thing countless times before. you guys weren't even a couple. you were just a good fuck for her every once in a while and that was that. but seeing you let some other girl shove her tongue down your throat and possibly let her take you back to your dorm room later? no, vi wasn't about to let that happen.

vi storms over to you and grabs your arm, wordlessly pulling you away from the girl. "what the fuck-" vi tightens her grip on your arm and tugs you upstairs, not giving you a chance to wriggle out of her hold. she pulls you into an empty bathroom, locking the door before she turns around to face you, arms folded over her chest. "what the fuck do you think you're doing, vi? you can't just-"

your words were cut off by her lips on yours, her tongue immediately invading your mouth, almost as if she was claiming your mouth as hers. you melt into the kiss, still feeling a little confused about this but hey you weren't complaining. you had a hot girl kissing you... who would complain?

"you're such a fuckin' slut, you know that?" vi mumbles against your mouth, her fingers moving to unbuckle her belt. vi had never called you a slut before, it weirdly made a warm feeling settle in your lower stomach… "letting some whore shove her tongue down your throat like that. i didn't know your standards were that low." vi grabs your wrists and wraps her belt around them, forcing them to be restrained behind your back. her hands grab onto your hips and spins you around so you were facing the sink. you tug on the restraints and attempt to turn around but vi simply presses down on your back, forcing you to be pinned underneath her. "stay down."

vi's tone was commanding and deeper than usual- it made you want to obey her- so you did. as you lifted your head you're met with the sight of your reflection in the mirror, pressed against the sink with vi standing behind you, unbuttoning her jeans.

"if you wanted to be fucked you should've just said so instead of throwing yourself at the first person who was willing to give you attention." you feel vi hitch the bottom of your dress up your hips and pull your panties to the side, your bare pussy greeting her. vi let out a hum before her hand came down on your ass causing your hips to involuntary jerk at the sudden spank.

"now, be a good girl and let me take care of you, yeah?" vi pulled her jeans and boxers half down, her hard cock springing free. she thrusts her hips forward, burying her cock inside of you to a hilt, not even bothering to give you a warning. no, you didn't deserve a warning.

"f- fuck!" your mouth fell open in an 'o' shape as you felt vi's cock invade your tight pussy, your walls fluttering around her length. she gave you a moment to adjust before she started to thrust her hips forward, fucking you deep.

"mmm, that's it." vi growls as she fucks in and out of you at a fast pace. her fingers tangle in your hair, pulling your head up so you were forced to watch yourself in the mirror. "look at yourself... look like a fuckin' slut."

all you could do was let out a whine in response and bask in the feeling of vi's cock splitting you open perfectly, making eye contact with yourself in the mirror like vi had told you to. you had never been fucked in this way before and it made you a little concerned at how much you seemed to be enjoying it. you liked having vi bound your wrists, you liked having her call you a slut and you liked having her use your body for her pleasure. it seemed you were learning some things about yourself tonight that you never thought possible.

"such a perfect pussy." vi's other hand collides with your backside again, causing a moan to spill from your lips. "oh, you like that do you? not surprised." she spanks you again, your cheeks flush red from embarrassment at how much you were enjoying this.

"think you can just let other people fuck this pussy, hm?" vi let out a dark chuckle and shook her head, her fingers tightening their grip in your hair, earning a wince from you. the pain only added to your pleasure. "it's mine."

"say it." you felt her thrust deeper, hitting that one particular spot that made your pussy clench around her. her hand met your ass again, your skin starting to turn red from her actions. "go on." spank. "say." spank. "it." spank.

"It's- my pussy is yours, vi!" you were a blubbering, moaning mess underneath her, her cock hitting your g spot deliciously with every thrust. you could tell vi was getting close too because her movements were getting sloppier and her grunts were getting louder.

"that's- hah- that's my good girl." her hand untangles from your hair and drops to rest on your hips, guiding them up and down on her cock. her head falls back as she feels herself ready to cum, her hips snapping into you faster. "yes! fuck- baby!"

vi’s load spills inside of you, filling you up with her seed. her actions cause your own orgasm to tremble over you. she stays inside of you for a short while, slowly fucking you- and herself- through the pleasure. she places a soft kiss on your shoulder and pulls out of you, her gentle actions a stark contrast from her earlier demeanour.

she pulls her boxers and jeans back up, grabs your panties and stuffs them into her pocket- saving them for later- before she tugs your dress back down. she grabs your bound wrists and undoes the belt, freeing your hands.

she grabs your hips and spins you around so you were facing her, her lips finding yours. it was a soft kiss that instantly made your heart flutter. "you're mine, cupcake."

[neferaskingdom]

♡ Where's The Trophy? He Just Comes Running Over To Me | MV1

NEFERASKINGDOM

Summary: She ended it — he said she was too much. But now every time he wins, he looks for her.

A/N: Here's a little drabble for you guys. Inspiration is still on the down low but MAX WON IN SUZUKA GUYS and this lil idea struck.

MAX VERSTAPPEN MASTERLIST | MAIN MASTERLIST

It was all over the internet. The photos of him standing on the second step of the podium in Melbourne, jaw tight, eyes scanning the crowd with this distant, searching look. He should've been proud—second place with a car that was fighting him every step of the way—but it was like he was waiting for something. Or someone.

People on Twitter noticed. Reddit too. The way he didn’t smile properly, the way he glanced toward the sidelines right before the champagne came out. There were theories. Some people even guessed right. He was looking for her.

Max hadn’t been himself for a while. And maybe that wasn’t fair to say, because he was still fast. Still pushing the Red Bull harder than anyone else could’ve. But the car was holding him back this season. Everyone knew it. It wasn’t just bad luck or a weird setup. It was an actual issue. Aero, balance, whatever the hell the engineers were arguing about behind closed doors. Max could drive like hell, but if the car wasn’t ready, it just wasn’t.

Still, it didn’t stop people from whispering about him. And it didn’t stop her from wondering, in quiet moments, if he was okay.

It had been almost six months since they broke up.

Not that the anniversary needed marking.

It happened just before his fourth championship.

The fight had been coming for weeks—tension simmering beneath every conversation, every missed call, every cancelled dinner. She gave him space, tried not to take it personally when he snapped or forgot her birthday or ghosted her texts for two straight days because he was in sim sessions and meetings.

She really tried.

But he pushed. And pushed. And then, one night, he said something he couldn't take back.

It was late. Past midnight. The apartment in Monaco was dead silent except for the sound of Max’s voice echoing from the kitchen, clipped and sharp.

"You don't get it. You never have."

She was standing by the window, arms crossed, the city lights painting her face in cool blue. "Don’t turn this into that. I’ve done nothing but try to understand."

He walked past her, tossing his phone onto the counter with a thud. “You think trying means texting me after every quali like that’s supposed to fix it? I don’t need a cheerleader. I need someone who doesn’t make everything harder by hovering all the time. You're just too much!”

The words came out fast, angry. He froze as soon as he said them.

“I didn’t mean—”

She blinked at him. Just once. Then picked up her bag from the back of the chair. “Yeah. You did.”

Max moved toward her quickly, regret all over his face. “No, I didn’t. I swear. I’m—fuck, I’m tired, I’m under so much pressure, I—”

“I gave you space,” she said, voice quiet but shaking. “I let you push me away. I made excuses for you. I convinced myself this was just temporary. But this?”

He reached out, catching her wrist. “Please don’t go. I didn’t mean it. I’m sorry. I’m just tired. I love you.”

She looked at him, heart breaking and already halfway out the door. “I love you too. But I can’t do this anymore. I need space to think.”

She left. No big scene. Just keys on the counter and a cab at the curb.

The last time they spoke was the night of his fourth championship. She watched the race from her couch, pride and heartbreak mixing in her chest like poison. When he crossed the line, the tears came fast. It was supposed to be a moment they shared.

She sent him a message. Just one.

Her: congrats on the title. you deserved it.

He replied five minutes later.

Max: Please call me. I need to talk to you.

Max: I’m so sorry. I think about you every day.

Max: I fucked up. Please don’t shut me out forever.

Max: I know I don’t deserve it, but if there’s any chance at all… please.

She didn’t answer right away. It took her hours to even look at her phone again. And when she finally did, she typed out something simple.

Her: I’m proud of you. I really am. I know it was a stressful time. But what you said… it stuck. I just need some space. I hope you understand.

She didn’t text back after that. Not for months.

Then came the 2025 season.

It started off okay. Not great. Not Max levels of dominance. The car was twitchy, unstable in corners, and the engineers were playing catch-up from day one.

He still dragged it to second place in Australia. It was a miracle drive. But when he stood on the podium, he wasn’t smiling the way he used to.

Then China happened. P4. Not a disaster, but it hurt. Everyone could see he was wringing every last drop out of that machine and it still wasn’t enough. But he wasn’t throwing tantrums or being cold with the press. He just looked… tired.

That was when Lando started texting her.

Lando: okay hear me out

Lando: come to japan

Her: lol what?

Lando: serious. Quadrant’s first launch post-rebrand is in Suzuka and it’s a big deal and I want you there. you always said you’d come if we did something huge. You promised

Lando: don’t be mean i’m sensitive

Her: I don’t think that counts as a promise lol

Her: lando.

Lando: Please. I’ll keep you away from him. swear on my life. you won’t even smell a red bull. max won’t know. just come support your favourite british gamer boy.

Her: I’m not sure it’s a good idea.

Lando: It’s for me not for him. come on. just this one time.

Lando: I’ll buy you japanese snacks and let you win mario kart. i’m begging.

Her: you never let anyone win mario kart.

Lando: but for you. I’ll throw the race.

Her: …

Her: fine. one weekend.

Lando: YES. you’re the best. he won’t even know. it’s gonna be chill. just quadrant stuff. you’ll have fun.

Suzuka was buzzing. She had an amazing time with the Quadrant crew, watching all the behind-the-scenes of photoshoots and going out for ramen with Lando. But she couldn’t avoid the paddock. Not when Saturday’s quali brought a surprise. Max was on pole.

She watched it all from the shadows, tucked behind a wall of McLaren gear and camera rigs, staying low-key like she promised. But when he stepped out of the car, helmet tucked under his arm, grinning wide like it was 2023 again, her heart did this dumb little flip.

God, she missed him.

Race day came. And Max? He dominated.

He drove like a man possessed. Fast. Precise. Every lap smoother than the last. The Red Bull finally looked decent again—maybe not perfect, but close enough in his hands.

And when he crossed the finish line, hands raised, engine screaming, she didn’t mean to move. But her feet took her to the barricades at parc fermé before her brain caught up.

She stayed hidden, sandwiched between McLaren crew and camera guys.

Max was all celebration—yelling over the radio, hugging his engineers, trading high fives and slaps on the back. The joy on his face was infectious, the kind of smile she hadn’t seen in ages. He placed his helmet gently on the stand, grabbed a water bottle from the pit wall, and turned slightly—ready to take a sip—when he spotted her.

He froze.

The bottle slipped right out of his hand, hitting the concrete with a loud thud as he stared.

Then he ran.

No hesitation, no second-guessing. Just sprinted straight toward her and pulled her into a hug so tight it knocked the breath from her lungs.

She was too stunned to speak, too overwhelmed to do anything but hug him back. Her fingers curled into the back of his suit, and she held on as the flashes of cameras popped around them like fireworks.

She glanced up, catching Lando a few steps away trying to subtly signal if she needed help—if he should pull Max off her. But she shook her head, just barely.

Max wasn’t letting go.

“I’m so sorry,” he murmured into her hair, over and over again, voice hoarse with emotion. “I’m sorry. I missed you. I’m so sorry.”

She leaned back just enough to cradle his face in her hands, thumbs brushing his cheeks as she looked at him—really looked at him—for the first time in months.

“Congratulations Max” She whispered, watching him calm down a little.

He didn’t say anything at first. Just looked at her like he was afraid she'd disappear.

"I didn’t know you were here," he said finally, voice rough.

She nodded. "Wasn’t planned. Lando guilt-tripped me."

He gave a breathy laugh. Then his face sobered. "You saw the whole thing?"

She nodded again.

Max stepped closer. "I meant what I said. About being sorry. I think about it every day."

"Max—"

"Just let me say this," he interrupted, voice low. "I was angry. At the team. At the car. At myself. And I used you like a punching bag and took you for granted. That was on me."

She looked at him for a long second before smiling widely.

"Go celebrate," she whispered against his shoulder. "You earned it. I’ll meet you in your driver’s room later ok?."

He pulled back just enough to look at her. Hope flickered in his eyes. "Yeah?"

You nodded. "We’ll talk. After."

He didn’t push for more. Just touched their foreheads briefly before turning back towards the staff ushering him to the cooldown room.

And this time, as Max stepped onto the podium, standing tall as the Dutch Anthem played in the background, as he sprayed Champagne on Lando and Oscar, he didn’t need to search the crowd.

He already knew she was there.

[lascvitae]

❀ ༉ ‧ ₊ ˚ WANNA MAKE YOU MINE²

♯┆ karina pulls y/n deeper into her world, and even though y/n knows she should be careful, it's already too late. she’s falling hard and fast. and honestly? she already did.

part one. part two. part three.

pairing. karina x fem!reader genre. strangers to lovers, fluff, suggestive!!, goodness karina wants you so bad warning(s). making out, (lots of it actually) cursing, underage drinking, scream mentioned 🤓☝️ karina showing her true colors, karina teases you literally like throughout the entire chapter, she’s possessive and obsessive but you like it :shrug:

word count: 11k

❝baby, don’t be scared, want you everywhere

catch you if i fall, i mean it.❞

── ⟢ ・⸝⸝ katty ᥫ᭡: lawd.🧎‍♀️

masterlist.

minjeong didn’t look at you. she just stared ahead, eyes blank and teary, like her mind was somewhere else. 

you swallowed, chest tight. “i’m sorry. you didn’t deserve this.”

she let out another bitter laugh. “yeah, well. i did it to myself. didn’t i?”

“no. you didn’t. you had a crush. you were in love and you trusted someone with that.”

minjeong’s bottom lip wobbled, and her eyes squeezed shut like she was trying to hold everything in.

“why would jiwon do it?” you muttered. 

minjeong’s jaw clenched. “i don’t know.“

you turned toward her, your voice quieter now. “how long were you in love with her?”

minjeong didn’t answer right away. just curled her fingers tighter into her sleeves.

“too long. i was stupid. especially after i saw what she did to yujin.”

your eyebrows furrowed. 

“shit—“

“who’s that?”

“i— she’s— i’ll just let karina tell you.“ she sniffled. 

you bit your lip nervously before nodding slowly and curiously. “does jiwon know you’re here?”

another long silence.

then minjeong shook her head. “i don’t think she cares.”

it made your heart ache. because whatever happened between them, jiwon had a choice.

“i’m gonna fix this.” you said.

minjeong gave you a tired look. “how?”

you didn’t know yet.

  ───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

you didn’t know where else to look.

after hearing minjeong crying in the stairway, you needed jiwon. you needed her to look you in the eye and tell you it wasn’t true. that she didn’t hand over minjeong’s secret like it was nothing. so you ended up at the counselor’s office.

you told yourself that maybe jiwon was here. maybe the guilt pushed her into one of the chairs or forced her to ask the counselor for help. but when you opened the door the office was empty.

you sat down on the fake leather couch. it squeaked under you, and you just sat there. 

you stared at the wall with that dumb motivational cat poster. the one that said hang in there.

and then the door opened.

you didn’t look up. didn’t need to. you already knew who it was.

karina closed the door behind her. she stood for a second. as if she was debating whether to speak or just look at you.

“i figured you’d be here.” she said eventually.

you didn’t respond. she stepped further inside.

“you shouldn’t have run off like that.”

“sorry, i didn’t realize i needed your permission to walk away.” you scoffed. 

“don’t say it like that.”

“can you just… leave me alone? you knew this would happen. and you didn’t stop it.”

karina stayed quiet for a while. “but i didn’t cause it.”

you let out a bitter laugh. “no. you just sat back and let it happen.”

“she told jiwon and jiwon told someone else. that’s not my fault.”

“but you knew, karina. you knew it would blow up like this. and you let it.”

“no i didn’t.” she protested. “how was i supposed to know that she’d anonymously send in a tip on ning’s page? it isn’t my fault that jiwon betrayed her.”

her words stung you. 

‘it wasn’t my fault that jiwon betrayed her.’

‘jiwon betrayed her.’

when the words finally settled, karina was standing right in front of you. 

“it isn’t my job to clean up someone else’s mistake.” she continued. “you don’t get to stand here and act like i’m the bad guy. i didn’t sell minjeong out. jiwon did.”

“but you could’ve protected her.” you whispered.

“from what? the effect of her best friend’s actions? i told you. that isn’t my job.”

you winced at her tone. 

“leave me alone, karina.”

you looked up at her as she stayed silent. then she stepped back. 

“stop looking at me like that and maybe i will.”

and there it was. 

you locked eyes with her and even though you were upset with her, it was like you were entranced. again. 

you didn’t know what to believe. 

“i didn’t care about minjeong’s secret. i cared about what it would do to you.”

you stayed silent. 

karina stepped closer. “if i had said something, it still would’ve gotten out. and then you would’ve been right in the middle of it. i didn’t want that.”

“so you just let minjeong burn instead?”

“i would’ve let the whole school burn if it meant keeping you out of it.” the words hit you hard.

“you don’t mean that.”

“i do.” 

“i care about you. i care when you cry. when you walk away from me. when you disappear without saying anything.”

“that’s not caring, karina. that’s control.” you shook your head.

“maybe. but it’s still real.”

you didn’t know what to say. so you reached out for her. 

hell. you didn’t know why you did it.

maybe it was because you were tired of running from the pull she had on you. but you leaned in. 

not all the way.

not enough to say i forgive you or this is okay now.

but enough to feel her warmth. 

you didn’t look at her. 

“i hate that you always make it feel like it’s just us. like the rest of the world doesn’t matter.”

“because it doesn’t. not when it comes to you.” she said instantly. 

you winced. not because she said it but because you believed her.

her hand hovered between you two, not touching you. you let your fingers slide toward hers. just enough for them to meet.

when they did, she caught them softly. you looked at her then.

karina’s voice softened. “you’re not like the rest of them. and i… don’t like sharing things that matter.”

you knew what she meant. you knew she was talking about you.

you leaned into her shoulder. it wasn’t because you forgave now, but because you wanted to. and maybe that was worse. she didn’t say anything, she just let it happen. let you rest against her like she was waiting for it.

you couldn’t help but feel like you fell right into her trap. 

karina’s house always felt like it was trying too hard not to be a house. it was always too clean. but tonight, there was something different about it. 

the low hum of music from ning’s bluetooth speaker and the scent of popcorn filled the air, accompanied by her candy perfume. 

you were sitting on the edge of her velvet couch now, tucked into a cushion with a blanket karina tossed over you. your fingers gripped a cold glass of something sparkling and pink, courtesy of ning. 

aeri claimed the armchair, legs folded up with her hoodie zipped halfway as she scrolled through her phone. ning was sprawled out on the floor, face down in her phone beside a half empty bowl of popcorn.

karina sat close as she always did. her thigh pressed against yours, arm draped along the arm of the couch behind you. you could feel her fingertips brushing your shoulder every now and then. 

“anyway. i still can’t believe jiwon actually cracked. like damn. she really folded under pressure, huh?” ning started, voice casual in a way that meant she was about to say something dangerous. you didn’t say anything. just stared into your drink.

karina shifted beside you. “ning.”

“what? i’m just saying. i expected better. that girl keeps secrets like it’s her job.”

“she made a mistake.” karina said. 

“did she?” ning placed a gummy bear into her mouth before chewing lazily.

“kinda seems like she knew exactly what she was doing.”

“okay but that doesn’t mean you needed to go full tmz at lunch. you nuked our table.” aeri chimed in without looking up.

“and yet, no one one got up until y/n did.” ning said, eyes flicking toward you. the silence that followed made your ears ring. your throat tightened.

karina’s thumb found your knee, rubbing slow and soothing circles. “can you not?”

“i’m just observing. she’s here now, isn’t she? you’re welcome, by the way.” ning said. karina tensed next to you.

“maybe now you’ll finally chill out. stop staring at her like you’re crazy.” ning teased. 

“shut up.” karina said. it hit like a brick.

you felt it. the shift. the change in karina’s tone when someone crossed a line, even if it was someone she considered a friend.

“relax. you’re so sensitive when she’s around. it’s kinda cute.” ning said.

“i’m tired.” you said.

“you wanna go upstairs?” karina turned to you immediately. 

you stared at her.

“we don’t have to stay down here.“

“yeah. upstairs, please?”

she was on her feet before you could even set your glass down. her hand found yours again and you followed her out of the room without a glance behind you.

she didn’t say anything until you reached the stairs. “i didn’t want you to feel like this.” she mumbled.

you looked over and her eyes were already on you. she was concerned.  her gaze was protective in a way that felt way too intense for someone you’d only just gotten close to.

“i’m okay.” you lied.

“you’re not.” she said. and her hand squeezed yours. “but you will be.”

her room door opened with a click. you stepped inside first. you hovered near the doorway, unsure of what to do with your hands.

karina crossed the room and sat at the edge of her bed, kicking off her shoes without a word. she pat the space next to her but didn’t look at you.

you sat. not too close. but not too far either. and for a while, neither of you said anything. just sitting in the quiet. 

karina turned toward you slightly. “are you mad at me?”

you didn’t look at her. just stared at the soft curve of the candle’s flame. “i don’t know.”

“you have every right to be.” silence again. “i don't care if anyone else leaves. but not you.”

you turned toward her, heart pounding. “why would i leave?” she stayed silent. 

karina leaned back on her hands, eyes focused on the ceiling. “because i scared you.”

“what?” she finally looked at you. 

“i didn’t want you to think that i was controlling. or obsessive. you’re the only thing i’ve wanted in a long time that actually makes me feel something. and i was scared that if i pushed too hard, you’d run.”

your breath caught. your chest felt full and tight and warm at the same time. “i wouldn’t.” you said. 

karina gave you a laugh that was devoid of any humor. “you say that now.”

“i mean it.”

she looked down. her fingers curled slightly as if she was resisting the urge to reach out for you. “then tell me not to hold back.”

“what?”

“if you want me to stop, i’ll stop. but if you don’t…” she finally looked at you again.

“i won’t hold back anymore.” you were suddenly aware of how close you were. you could feel the heat radiating off her skin.

you stayed silent for a moment. “you scare me sometimes.”

karina wasn’t offended. if anything, she was curious. “why?”

“because you always know what you want. and you always get it.”

“that scares you?” a slow smile found it’s way onto her lips. 

“no. what scares me is that i think i want to be yours.” you could feel the air change.

karina leaned in, forehead pressed to yours. “you already are.” then she kissed you.

it was slow. her hand slid to your back, pulling you in. your fingers caressed her hair, her cheek, then her jaw. you memorized the way her breath hitched when you parted your lips for her. you pulled away to catch your breath. but only for a bit. 

karina’s lips found yours again. it was like she was memorizing the shape of your mouth and the taste of your breath. you didn’t mean to pull her closer. you didn’t mean to sigh against her lips, or let your hands twist in the material of her hoodie. you didn’t mean to pull her down with you as you leaned back. 

but she came willingly, moving with you until she was leaning over you, one hand beside your head and the other still at your back. she kissed you like she was starving. like she was holding back for weeks and finally let herself go. and god, you let her.

you leaned into her, melted into her. you let her kiss you like she owned the moment. because she did. her lips parted just enough to whisper. “you have no idea what you do to me.” your breath caught.

and then—

“HELLO?!?” you both froze.

“okay, wow. i knew it! i told aeri it was happening! pay up, bitch!” ning’s voice echoed from the doorway.  karina groaned into your shoulder as you jumped back like you were caught committing a crime. 

“ning— what the hell?!”

“oh, don’t ning me. i knocked. twice.” she leaned against the doorframe with zero shame.

“anyway. aeri’s making some strawberry lemonade cocktails and i came to get you before she mixes them with that expired peach vodka again.”

again?

you looked at karina, who looked more annoyed than embarrassed. and then ning disappeared. karina sighed, dragging a hand through her hair. 

you were still catching your breath, staring at the door that ning had just came through. “should we go down?” you asked eventually.

karina leaned in one last time, brushing her lips against your cheek. “in a minute.”

“hurry up! i want to toast to the sexual tension finally bursting!” you heard ning yell. 

karina groaned. 

  ───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

karina’s grip on you didn’t even loosen up once on the walk down. you stepped into the kitchen and were immediately hit by the scent of strawberries, citrus, and something that smelled dangerous.

“okay. i don’t know what to call this one yet, but it’s mostly lemonade and like, strawberry puree… and then like, a splash of evil.” aeri said while standing at the counter.  “define ‘splash.’” karina said, eyeing the bottle of vodka on the counter that looked more than half empty.

“i’m not a math prodigy. want some?” aeri shrugged. 

“absolutely not.” karina said, but ning was already pouring some into plastic cups for you. one of them was immediately put into your hand.

“cheers to tension relief! and karina’s face when i walked in.” ning said dramatically.

“i will murder you.” karina mumbled.

“i’m not judging! karina’s been like, clinically obsessed with you since day one. it’s honestly a relief that she finally acted on it.” you took a sip.

it was surprisingly good. it had just enough burn at the end to remind you that this was probably a very bad idea. “so are we gonna pretend that i didn’t clock the way karina was looking at y/n two weeks ago?” aeri said, sitting on the barstool. 

“are we finally past the mutual pining stage?” you nearly choked on your drink.

“we’re not past anything. we’re right in the middle of it.” karina said. that shut everyone up for a second.

“that was kinda hot.” ning giggled for you. you tried to hide your face behind your cup but karina pulled it down, locking eyes with you.

“none of that.” she said in a voice that only you could hear. you swallowed hard. something that you did a lot around her. 

“okay. this is where we toast, guys. you left me hanging.” ning rolled her eyes. you all raised your cups and for a moment it felt weirdly… normal. the tension turned into laughter, sarcasm, and increasingly dangerous drinks. karina stayed close the whole time.

you let her. you weren’t scared anymore. you were curious how much deeper this could go. and somehow, you ended up on karina’s balcony. 

one of them, at least. 

it was quieter out here. the sliding door clicked shut behind you and karina stepped onto the balcony right after you. the breeze was cool against your skin, courtesy of the ocean not too far away. 

your head was light and everything felt slower. it was quiet if you ignored the faint noise of playboi carti playing through ning’s bluetooth speaker. 

she finally spoke. “i hated that ning walked in.”

“yeah. i noticed.”

“i’m serious. i waited so long to kiss you like that. i wasn’t done.” she said in a lower voice than usual. her words were a little less accurate. you turned to meet her gaze. 

“i think you made your point.” you said quietly.

“did i?” she mumbled, tilting her head. 

“because i don’t want there to be any confusion. not with you.” her fingers brushed against yours on the railing as a reminder. 

“i like you. in the i can’t stop thinking about you kinda way. maybe i’ve done it all in the wrong order or came on too strong, but i’m not pretending.” your heart did something weird at her words. 

“i don’t want to pretend either.” you said. karina’s arm brushed against yours again. you could feel her sigh before you heard it.

“i don’t usually say shit like that. like, i never say shit like that. but with you, i can’t not.” she admit in a slurred voice. you turned your face toward her, and she was already looking at you. 

“stay tonight.”

you nodded. maybe it was the drinks. or honestly just karina. but staying felt like the only right answer.

the first thing you felt was warmth of a blanket. then the consequences of last night. karina’s scent still lingered on your skin. it was expensive and addictive. 

you stirred, stretching slightly before rolling onto your back. the spot beside you was empty, but it was still warm. you blinked slowly so that your eyes could adjust to the light slipping in from the slightly cracked bathroom door. that shit was huge. 

but when you looked inside, you nearly forgot how to breathe.

karina stood in front of the mirror, pulling her damp hair into a high, effortless ponytail. her outfit made you sit up.

it was a black cropped tank top paired with a skirt. just tight enough to show off the slope of her waist. she had on the silver rings she always wore with her sunglasses pushed in her hair. and her back was to you. that was when you saw it.

the spine tattoo.

black ink ran straight down her back. you couldn’t read it from here, but it looked like something elegant and sharp. just like her. 

it curved perfectly with the shape of her body, disappearing under the hem of her top. it was hot. unfair. 

she bent slightly to grab her lip balm off the sink and you caught yourself staring so hard you forgot how to blink. karina caught your reflection in the mirror.

“you’re awake. did you sleep okay?” you cleared your throat, dragging your eyes away from her back like you weren’t just hypnotized.

“didn’t think your bed would be so soft.”

“you drooled on me. that’s how soft it was.” karina smirked and turned slightly toward you. you groaned and dragged a pillow over your face.

“don’t say that to me right now.” she laughed quietly. 

“i made you tea. it’s probably not warm anymore now but it’s the thought.” she spoke. you peeked over the pillow to admire her. 

“thanks.” karina walked over to you and sat on the edge of the bed, reaching to caress your cheek with her thumb. 

“you looked so peaceful. i didn’t want to wake you.”

“you could’ve.” you mumbled.

“next time.” she responded. there would be a next time. you continued to stare at her. 

��what?” she asked, lips curving at your attention. 

“you have a spine tattoo.” you said.

“yeah.”

“for how long?”

“for a while.”

“you never said anything.”

“you never asked.” she said, slipping her jacket on slowly and hiding the ink from your view. it was a simple line, but it held so much weight. what else was she hiding from you? you sat up slowly, pulling the blanket up with you. “where’s aeri and ning?”

“alive.” karina smiled. 

“that’s good.” you replied. 

“i guess.” she stood again and grabbed her lip balm from the organizer, applying it in the mirror. “they’re texting like they’re stranded in the sahara.”

“we’re going out by the way.”

“out?”

“yeah. brunch. or lunch. something along the lines. ning just wants to eat.”

“and you? what do you want?” you smiled, pulling your knees up to your chest. karina tilted her head, giving you that look. the one that always made you forget how to breathe. “i want you with me.” she said simply.

it was crazy how one sentence from her could make your whole body feel like a firework. “okay.” you whispered.

she walked back over and leaned down, pressing a kiss to your temple. “take your time. i’ll wait.”

but all you could think about was that tattoo. and how bad you wanted to trace it with your fingers. you were going to ask about it again later. when it was just the two of you and no jacket in the way.

───────── ౨ৎ─────────

the doors of karina’s car swung open like a reveal scene in a drama. it was the kind of car that made people look twice. karina stepped out first with her sunglasses on. then aeri, stretching a little with an eye roll. then ning, dramatically fluffing her hair like she was getting her picture taken. 

then finally, you.

karina was there in time to help you out, her fingers wrapping around your hand before you could even close the door behind you. “keep holding my hand. i like when people see it.” she said under her breath, lips brushing your ear.

“see what?”

“that you’re mine.”

you walked past a group of college guys who clearly noticed her, then did a double take when they saw your hand in hers. karina didn’t react. she just tilted her chin slightly and pulled you closer. “i don’t like how he looked at you.” she said flatly.

“i think he was looking at you, karina.”

“exactly. and then he looked at you like he thought he had a chance.” 

you laughed. “you’re insane.”

she just smiled like it was a compliment.

and the second you stepped into the store, it was like something changed.

it was all because karina had entered.

it was like everyone noticed her at once. the store wasn’t even that packed, but heads still turned. people’s eyes drifted from clothes to the tall, sharp featured girl who walked like she didn’t need to try. the world just shaped itself around her.

karina wore that black cropped tank top that was still tight and unfair. the silver belt made it look like it was made to show off her waist.

you didn’t notice the way you fell in step beside her until aeri leaned in.

“everyone’s staring. it’s like walking next to an off duty model.”

“off duty? karina hasn’t clocked out since birth.”

karina didn’t care about the compliments. she was too busy scanning the racks like she had a mission. and that mission, apparently, was you.

you didn’t even get to touch a single hanger.

“oh— welcome back miss yu.” a worker said, already straightening up.

“we’ll bring you both something to sip on.”

your eyes widened. “we get drinks?”

“it’s karina. you could get a couch in here if you asked nicely.” ning said from behind you.

karina turned around with a red dress dangling from her finger.

“try this on. she said, it wasn’t up for debate. 

“you didn’t even check the size—”

“i looked at you.” karina tilted her head. 

“what if it doesn’t even fit?” you said, cheeks warming up already.

“then we buy you the size that does.” she replied as if it was obvious.

“karina—”

“baby. i already made up my mind. this one’s yours.” she said and you swore your soul left your body for a moment. 

“fine. but if i try something, you do too.” you mumbled.

“me?” karina raised a brow. 

“yeah. fair’s fair.”

she stepped closer. “you just wanna see me undress.”

you choked. “no— i mean—”

“then say that, sweetheart.” karina smirked, taking a corset top and black skirt from the rack like she was humoring you. 

you were in the dressing room, staring at yourself in the mirror with a dress so tight it was almost suffocating. it was red, strapless, and it clung to every curve you didn’t know you had. 

your thoughts were a mess.

“karina, this is insane.” you called through the curtain.

“does it fit?” she replied. 

“that’s not the issue!”

“then it’s perfect.”

you cracked the door open. “your turn.”

karina took the corset top and matching skirt from aeri. she disappeared into the stall next to you without even glancing back.

you tried not to listen. you really did.

but you could hear the rustle of fabric. and the sharp slide of the curtain.

and then—

“y/n.” her voice called. 

“i need help with the zipper.”

you froze.

aeri and ning had wandered off somewhere to look at outfits.

so it was just you.

you stepped out of your stall, heart pounding in your chest. “you’re serious?”

“wouldn’t ask if i wasn’t.”

you pulled her curtain aside.

and your brain? it stopped working. 

karina stood in front of the mirror in a black corset top that hugged her waist and the skirt hugged low on her hips. she was too hot for you. and your heart. 

just beneath one of the ribs in her top you saw something peeking out. 

it was a another tattoo. 

not the spine one. not the collarbone one.

this one sat just under her chest, printed in fine black ink. it was unreadable but unfair.

your breath hitched.

“zip?” she asked half turned, watching you through the mirror.

you nodded stupidly, stepping in.

your fingers brushed the bare skin of her back as you carefully zipped her up.

“how many tattoos do you have?” your voice was barely above a whisper.

“three so far.”

your eyes glanced at the ink again. “this one’s older?”

“mhm. older than them all.”

your gaze met hers in the mirror.

your body temperature was suddenly too warm.

“your hands are shaking.” she said in a teasing tone.

“because you’re hot!” you blurted.

karina laughed before biting her lip. like she wasn’t currently ruining your ability to form a coherent thought.

she turned to face you fully with that teasing gaze still in her eyes. her voice was low. “so you admit it.”

“karina—”

“i’m buying this. and yours.”

“i haven’t even decided if i’m getting mine—”

karina stepped in until your space was hers. her hand came up, tilting your chin up until your eyes met hers.

“if you won’t wear it for you, then wear it for me.” she murmured. 

“i like seeing you in things i picked out. is that so bad?”

you were helpless. and breathless.

it didn’t feel like just spoiling.

it felt like claiming.

“that’s not fair.” you whispered.

she smiled. like she already won.

“you didn’t answer.” she added.

“answer what?”

“do i look good?”

you didn’t even pretend to play it cool.

“you look… insane.” you said in a dazed tone.

karina smirked.

her hand dropped to your shoulder, fingers brushing lightly as she fixed the strap of your dress. it was so gentle that it made your stomach flip.

“you two better not be making out in there!” ning’s voice rang out from somewhere near the jewelry.

karina smiled. 

“not yet.” she replied, eyes never leaving yours.

your knees genuinely almost buckled.

karina stepped back, finally giving you room to breathe. but the heat she left behind lingered on you. your hands were still trembling as you retreated to your own stall, trying to steady your pulse and ignore the flush creeping on your skin.

you somehow managed to change back into your clothes, and the red dress draped carefully over your arm like it was made of glass.

when you stepped out karina was already waiting. she was back in her black tank top and skirt, with her phone in one hand. she looked like she owned the store. she probably did.

you opened your mouth to say something just when ning came skipping around the corner with a glass of champagne in her hand and a pair of sunglasses that were definitely not hers.

“are you two done eye fucking in the fitting rooms or should i grab another drink?” she asked, taking a sip.

“it was one sided.” karina was unphased. as usual. 

“it was not.” you hissed.

“awh! i love mutual delusion!” ning cooed.

aeri was behind her, holding three bags and a pair of stilettos that looked legally dangerous. “i’m ready.”

karina took both your dress and her outfit, slinging them over her arm.

the four of you strolled toward the register and the moment the cashier saw karina, her expression shifted from professional to terrified to mess up. like she already knew who she was.

“put it on my account,” karina said before the girl could even speak.

“you have an account here?” ning asked. 

karina raised a brow. “don’t you?”

“no!”

you stood there, trying not to look out of place in a store where a single price tag could probably pay your rent. meanwhile, karina was taking black card out like it was nothing.

“did you want the jewelry as well?” the cashier asked politely, gesturing to a small tray of necklaces and rings karina had set down.

karina didn’t even glance at it. “all of it.”

your eyes widened. “wait—”

“let me.” karina said without looking at you.

you went quiet. you were stunned. and maybe just a little bit turned on.

the cashier handed karina the shopping bags with both of your outfits folded neatly inside, along with the jewelry in a smaller velvet pouch.

karina handed the pouch straight to you.

you stared.

“they’ll look better on you.” she said.

and then she walked off, sunglasses finally down over her eyes like she didn’t just buy you an outfit and jewelry without blinking.

   ───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

“this is the last one,” ning groaned dragging her feet. 

“i’m begging. starving. withering away.”

“you had champagne in the last three stores.” aeri reminded her, adjusting the stack of bags in her arms.

“champagne isn’t food. it’s a coping mechanism.” ning snapped.

“you had two glasses. in every store.”

“you’re not helping, babe.”

the four of you stepped into the final store. it was so clean and so quiet that it felt like even breathing too loud would cost money. 

the employees were all beautiful and you were pretty sure you saw someone famous just casually browsing.

karina’s hand was already on the small of your back, steering you toward a rack of dresses.

“you’ll like these.” she mumbled, and she was right.

you glanced over your shoulder. ning had already zeroed in on the drink tray being passed around and grabbed a flute without even asking. aeri followed with no hesitation, sipping something sparkling while fully making eye contact with the most anxious employee nearby.

you, on the other hand, were kind of overwhelmed.

“karina. this is… insane.” you whispered.

“mm. try it on.” she said, grabbing a dress off the rack and holding it against you like she could already picture it.

you hesitated. “you’re not trying anything?”

“i’m not the one getting spoiled today.”

your face heated up. she said it so casually like you weren’t already fighting for your life every time she looked at you.

you disappeared into the dressing room before your knees gave out. and you didn’t notice her grab another dress. 

the one she picked was black and silky. you’d barely finished zipping it when she called out softly.

“let me see.”

you cracked the door and peeked out.

karina was leaning against the wall across from you with her hands in her pockets, and it made your stomach do a thing. the look she gave you could’ve killed a victorian child.

“turn.” she said.

you did. slowly.

she tilted her head, biting back a smile. 

“walk.”

“karina—”

“please?”

god. 

you did. a few steps back and forth, pretending you weren’t walking straight into your downfall.

“what do you think?” you asked, trying to sound unaffected.

karina stepped forward. “it’s not the dress that i’m looking at.”

you were already flushed, ducking back inside. you were halfway into the second dress when you heard the voice behind you.

“need help zipping?” she asked lowly.

you almost died.

you turned to look at her just as karina slipped inside your dressing room like it was nothing.

“you—” you started, clearly panicked.

but she was already behind you, fingers brushing your spine carefully. 

her voice was soft. “relax.”

you didn’t.

her hands ghosted up your back before adjusting the fabric with a precision that made you shiver. she wasn’t just zipping you up. she was watching. your every breath, your every twitch, and every timesucked in too sharply.

“you really like watching me suffer, don’t you?” you whispered.

“no. i like watching you fall.” she leaned in.

“fall for what?”

her smile curved against your skin. “you’ll see.”

the door creaked open suddenly.

“okay, i know you’re in there again—“ ning’s voice called out.

you jumped.

karina, who was unbothered, responded. 

“we’re almost done.”

“you said that at the last store.”

aeri was sipping again, arms full of designer bags. “ning’s gonna start eating the mannequins.”

“i am!” ning shouted.

you stepped out finally, still struggling.

you watched karina’s expression shift from relaxed to focused. then focused to something darker and hungrier.

she was just staring. “you’re gonna kill me.” she said quietly.

your throat tightened. “it’s the dress, right?”

“no. it’s you in the dress.” she said.

you swallowed.

“you… can’t wear that around people.” she said, voice low.

“why not?”

“because i’m not trying to go to jail.”

“oh my god.” ning said.

karina looked at the nearest employee. “we’ll take this one.” the employee practically bowed. “we’ll wrap it for you.”

when you made it to the counter the cashier smiled, probably thinking you were just another couple with money to burn. but karina didn’t smile back. 

she handed over her black card like it meant nothing again, eyes lazily looking between you and the total on the screen.

ning leaned over from behind and stage whispered loud enough for the whole line to hear. 

“she was moaning over the price tag earlier but not when karina was practically eating her in the dressing room.”

your soul left your body.

the cashier stared. aeri choked on her gum. karina just smirked.

“oh my god. ning.” you hissed.

“what? i’m just saying. karina spends and y/n bends.”

“stop talking.” you begged, face already ten shades of red.

karina grabbed the bagged clothes with one hand then handed it to aeri.

“let her talk. she’s not wrong.” she murmured near your ear. 

you nearly died on the spot.

   ───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

the brunch spot was the kind of place you only visited to take pictures in.

aeri ordered like she’d been here before. 

ning ordered like she owned the place.

“and three mimosas. just to start.”

two were for her. 

karina didn’t even look at the menu. she looked at you.

“get whatever you want.” she said softly, making you fold instantly.

you were still recovering from the dressing room.

and the walk here. where she held your waist the whole time and dared anyone to look at you too long.

you were just starting to feel normal again, laughing at aeri complaining about her mimosa and taking a bite of ning’s food without asking when your phone buzzed.

jiwon

hey. you should know something before school tomorrow.

your stomach dropped.

there no context. no follow-up.

just that.

your fingers hovered over your screen for a second before you typed fast.

you  

what are you talking about?

you stared at your phone. 

you didn’t realize your expression shifted until karina nudged you with her foot under the table.

“you okay?” she asked.

you nodded too quickly. “yeah. just— just got a weird text.”

karina didn’t press. she already knew that something was off. 

you opened up your text with minjeong. 

you

minjeong

jiwon texted me 

[one attachment]

your appetite disappeared.

“you sure you’re good?” aeri asked.

“yeah.” you lied, setting your phone face down.

they continued to talk and laugh.

but your chest felt tight.

you tried to stay present.

you really did.

but the second you flipped your phone down, the energy shifted for you. your mind kept spinning. what did jiwon mean? why now? and why send that kind of text without explaining?

karina didn’t take her eyes off you once since you read it.

“you sure?” she asked again, quieter this time.

you nodded, managing a weak smile. 

“mhm. promise.”

but your knee was bouncing under the table and karina clocked it immediately.

she leaned back just, draping along the back of the booth behind you. her thumb grazed the top of your shoulder.

it was subtle and protective.

she didn’t touched her food much. she was too busy watching you.

your phone buzzed again.

you didn’t dare to look. not with karina watching. not with her sitting so close.

but she was mid sentence. anxiety was eating you out from the inside and it made you hopeful. 

so you flipped your phone over. subtly. 

jiwon

i never sent anything in anonymously. that wasn’t me.

your heart dropped.

karina was still mid-sentence, but her eyes cut to your screen for a second.

just one second.

you angled it away instinctively.

but it was too late.

“everything okay?” she asked in a soft voice. but there was something sharper under it now. you couldn’t name what it was.

you forced a smile.

“yeah. just… texting minjeong.”

she tilted her head and the corner of her mouth twitched upward. “minjeong?”

you nodded, thumbs already typing out a quick message before you could stop yourself.

you

minjeonggggg

i need you

the moment it delivered, karina leaned over and gently kissed your temple.

“be right back.” she murmured.

“where are you going?” you asked, trying to keep your tone even.

“bathroom.” she didn’t wait for you to respond. just turned and walked off with the same effortless grace that made everyone stop and stare.

you stared down at your screen. it was still unread.

“she’s gonna find out, you know.” ning said suddenly. 

your head snapped up. “what?”

“whatever it is. karina’s not stupid. if anything, i’d say she knows everything.” aeri sipped her mimosa.

“you’re acting like i’m hiding something.”

“we’re just saying. karina doesn’t miss much.” ning sang.

“plus she already saw your screen.” aeri added.

“you might as well just tell her before she finds out on her own. she’ll like it better.”

you weren’t sure if it was a warning or advice.

maybe it was both. 

but then you remembered the message.

jiwon’s message.

“i never sent anything in anonymously.”

that meant someone else had. someone who knew.

your stomach twisted.

and before you could talk yourself out of it, you typed to jiwon.

you

who is yujin?

you barely had time to process the weight of what you just sent when you saw the text wasn’t delivered.

blocked.

you stared with cold blooming in your chest.

karina returned a few seconds later, sliding back into her seat like nothing happened. her hand brushed your thigh beneath the table.

“you okay?” she asked, smiling.

and you smiled back.

but you had no idea if it reached your eyes.

the car ride back was thick with silence.

it was too quiet. 

aeri and ning had stayed behind for dessert. it was something about a mochi place that was trending on instagram, but ning reassured the two of you that her ‘lil shit’ would pick them up. 

karina drove with one hand on the wheel and the other resting idly on the center console like nothing was wrong. 

like she hadn’t seen the name yujin flicker across your screen.

you haven’t said anything since. but it was eating at you. the silence. the question. the fact that jiwon blocked you the second you texted.

you looked over at karina, voice lower than you meant. “who’s yujin?”

she didn’t even blink.

her mouth curved, but it wasn’t a smile. it was something quieter.

a knowing kind of tilt.

“i figured you’d get there eventually.” she said softly.

your throat tightened. “so?”

karina turned to look at you briefly. her tone was gentle.

“don’t worry about it, princess.”

the car hummed.

you stared at her, but she didn’t elaborate.

it felt like a promise.

when she pulled up in front of your place, she didn’t say goodbye. she just looked at you.

“i’ll see you soon.” she murmured.

you stepped out with a shaky breath and the door shut behind you quietly.

you bit your lip.

first period felt off frim the beginning. karina’s seat was still empty.

you weren’t used to that.

she was usually early on time. but today? the silence she left behind felt heavier than usual. and you were already on edge.

minjeong was two rows ahead, slouched low in her chair. but when the teacher turned to write something on the board, she moved in her seat just enough to glance back at you. then she passed a folded note along the edge of the desk.

you opened it under your book.

"didn’t see jiwon on the bus. she hasn’t answered me either."

your fingers tightened around the paper. 

your eyes flicked up toward the door again as if somehow she’d be there now.

no one came.

you pulled out your phone under the desk and quickly typed out a message to minjeong.

you don’t think… karina—

before you could hit send—

the door creaked open.

your head snapped up.

karina walked in with an unreadable expression. her jaw was tight and she handed a late pass to the teacher without a word. 

she didn’t even look at you until she was sitting.

she leaned in slightly, voice low.

“you didn’t get much sleep last night.”

your blood chilled.

your stomach dropped.

no one knew that. you didn’t text it to anyone. you just laid there in bed, tossing and turning while your brain tried to put together jiwon’s text, her disappearance, and yujin.

“how do you know that?” you asked.

karina smiled, the corners of her mouth curving.

her thumb reached out, brushing underneath your eye gently. 

“the eyebags. they’re kind of cute.” she murmured.

you should’ve laughed.

but your heart was beating a little too fast and your skin felt a little too hot.

she turned her gaze forward like nothing happened.

you stared at her, the memory of her hand against your cheek still tingling.

   ───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

lunch rolled around, but it didn’t feel like a break.

your head was still spinning from history class. jiwon’s name wasn’t called on the roster. at first, you thought maybe she was just late, but the teacher didn’t even pause. like she wasn’t supposed to be there in the first place.

you were walking with minjeong toward the courtyard when you heard someone whisper behind you.

“she moved schools. out of nowhere.”

“i heard her parents pulled her. like, literally overnight.”

you didn’t even realize you’d stopped walking until minjeong tugged lightly on your sleeve.

“y/n?” she asked. her voice was quiet.

your mouth felt dry. “did you hear that?”

minjeong nodded slowly. “something’s wrong. i just… i know she wouldn’t leave like that without saying anything.”

your heart twisted. you knew how close they were, or they used to be. and now jiwon was gone. just like that.

“she didn’t even say goodbye. not even a text.” minjeong whispered. 

before you could respond, a familiar warmth grazed your wrist.

karina.

she appeared beside you like she had always been there, her fingers brushing. 

there was a small silver chain around her neck that you’d never seen before.

“you weren’t at the table.” she said softly, her smile unreadable.

“we were just— um— walking.”

her gaze moved briefly to minjeong, then back to you.

“come with me.” she said, her tone not exactly a request.

you looked at minjeong, hesitant.

she shook her head before you could speak. “it’s fine. i’ve got somewhere to be.”

you nodded, swallowing your guilt and letting karina guide you by the hand to her table. 

“you missed first period.” aeri said to ning. 

“i’m in my delinquent era.”

karina rolled her eyes then reached into her bag and pulled something out. a small, velvet box.

your brows lifted. “what’s this?”

she opened it. inside was a delicate silver bracelet with multiple diamonds. 

she was still spoiling you. 

“i had it made.” she said softly like it wasn’t a big deal.

she was still spoiling you. 

you blinked. “karina— ”

“don’t.” she took your wrist before you could react and fastened the clasp herself. her fingers were steady.

“it looks good on you.”

your brain stopped.

“you really didn’t have to—”

“i wanted to.”

ning made a gagging noise. 

“you guys are disgusting. in a cute way, but still. disgusting.”

aeri smirked. “she’s just mad she hasn’t gotten her matching bracelet yet.”

“i want a matching necklace, actually.” ning said. 

you tried to hide your flustered face behind your hand but karina caught your wrist again, turning it to admire the bracelet on your wrist.

then ning spoke again.

“sooo. did you hear about jiwon?”

karina just tilted her head, her thumb still brushing your pulse.

“what about her?”

“she left. like, gone gone. moved schools outta nowhere. no warning. it’s kinda sus, right?”

aeri raised a brow. “i thought she was besties with that other girl.”

karina gave a light laugh.

“i guess she won’t be getting that rain check.” she said, voice dripping with something too smooth to be innocent.

you tensed.

her words were so casual. her fingers didn’t leave your wrist.

and when you looked at her she was already smiling.

like she didn’t just say something that sent chills down your spine.

“one day she’s here, the next she’s just… poof. there was no goodbye, no story, not even a last-minute rumor. that’s not how people leave this school. not without someone knowing.”

karina let out a small hum beside you, like she was interested but already had the ending to the story.

“she probably had her reasons.” aeri offered.

ning leaned in across the table with a conspiratorial voice. “okay but what if she didn’t leave voluntarily?”

you tensed. 

karina’s eyes cut to yours. she was amused. 

“why so tense, baby?” she asked.

you glanced away too quickly and caught it.

sunghoon, a couple tables over, was laughing with his friends when his eyes briefly focused on you. and then he smiled.

it was enough to make your stomach flip. it was the type that would’ve felt sweet if you weren’t sitting next to karina.

becahse she noticed.

of course she noticed.

her hand that was resting casually on your thigh under the table tensed slightly. 

you looked back at her, startled by how unreadable her expression was.

“i’m not tense.” you said.

“you are.” she murmured, thumb brushing over your leg. 

“it’s okay. i’d be nervous too if someone disappeared right after betraying me.”

you froze.

“i didn’t— she didn’t betray me.” you started, voice catching. 

karina tilted her head. “didn’t she?”

her stare was magnetic. she was smiling but something behind her eyes sparkled with knowing. 

she was still tracking sunghoon’s glance like it was carved into her eyelids.

aeri was unaware. ning, unfortunately, was not.

“you two weren’t that close, right?” ning asked 

“i mean, i thought she was tight with minjeong, but…”

“she was. they were.”

ning’s brows raised like she just realizing something. “wait. minjeong didn’t mention anything, did she?”

you didn’t answer.

which was all ning needed.

“oh. damn.”

“let it go. we’re talking about someone who left. let her stay gone.”

ning smiled, slow and shark like.

“right, right. my bad. guess i just love a good mystery.”

“you would be terrible in a whodunit. you would expose the killer just for fun.” aeri said, sipping her drink.

“only if the killer’s hot.”

karina laughed.

then she leaned toward you again, her voice barely above a whisper.

“you’re thinking too hard.”

“i’m not.”

“you are. relax. you’re safe.”

you turned to face her, heart pounding.

“are you saying that because you want me to feel safe, or because you know i am?”

her smile widened, lazy and slow, like she knew something you didn’t. her hand moved up your thigh subtly. 

“both.”

then she leaned back like nothing happened.

across the table, ning raised her eyebrows. “damn, i still want whatever weird love potion she used on you.”

karina smiled.

“no potion. just luck.”

and maybe a little bit of control.

  ───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

you didn’t mean to hang out with them after school. really.

but one minute you were walking out with every intention of hanging with minjeong and the next, aeri had her arm around your shoulder while dragging you towards karina’s black car. 

you sat on the edge of the couch, guilt tugging at your chest. minjeong had only sent a “k” when you texted about changing plans and it stung more than it should’ve. you felt like you owed her something. but karina was sitting beside you now, watching you like she already knew every thought.

“tell me what’s on your mind.” she said softly.

you tried to shrug it off. “nothing.”

“you can’t lie to me.” she murmured.

you turned to look at her, and she was already closer than you realized.

“i’ll say it again. you don’t have to pretend around me. i don’t like it when you pretend.” she added.

maybe it was the way she said it. or the way her voice was grounding you.

“i’m starting to think you might be insane.” 

karina smiled.

it was a soft one this time. 

“but you like it.”

you didn’t answer. you didn’t need to.

she reached out and brushed a strand of hair behind your ear. “i’ve never let anyone get this close.”

you swallowed. “that’s not true.”

“it is. not since—”

she stopped herself. and then, instead of finishing, she leaned forward and kissed you.

your eyes fluttered closed on instinct.

it started like a question. gentle, like she was waiting for you to push her away.

you didn’t.

you kissed her back. and when she moved a little closer with a hand curling at the back of your neck, you let her.

the couch creaked under you. her thumb grazed your jaw and she kissed you again, deeper this time. and then her lips trailed to the corner of your mouth, then to your cheek, and then lower.

your breath caught when she kissed beneath your ear.

then under the edge of your jaw.

“karina—“ escaped your lips before you could stop it.

she paused there. lips against your skin, with a ghosting smile.

and then she whispered. “it’s jimin.”

you stared.

“what?”

she pulled back just enough to meet your gaze. “my real name. i thought you should know.”

yoh stared at her, heart still pounding in your chest.

“why now?” you asked quietly.

“because you say my name like it means something. and i want it to be the right one.”

you were still trying to process it.

jimin, jimin, jimin. 

then her phone buzzed on the coffee table beside you.

she glanced at the screen.

then declined the call. too fast.

you didn’t get to see the contact.

“everything okay?” you asked, breathless from more than just the kiss.

she gave you a soft smile. “yeah. just my mom. i’ll be right back.”

you watched her disappear down the hallway and past the kitchen. ning was arguing with aeri about “borrowing” a bracelet from karina’s jewelry drawer but it all faded into the background as you slowly stood up.

then you heard her voice again from an almost closed door.

“no. i told you. i’m handling it.”

silence. then softer, almost broken. 

“i can’t lose her like i lost yujin.”

your body went still.

you didn’t even realize you were holding your breath until your lungs started to ache.

yujin.

there it was again. that name. that secret.

and now, suddenly, it wasn’t just curiosity

it was dread.

you heard her footsteps before you saw her.

soft and steady.

you didn’t move when she stepped back into the room, but your body tensed. like it knew she was near before your mind caught up.

karina was quiet as she sat beside you again, her perfume infesting the air and claiming the space all over again. her thigh brushed yours, fingers reaching for your hand. 

“sorry about that. my mom needed something.” she said softly.

you nodded too quickly. “no worries.”

and that was your first mistake.

because karina turned her head slightly toward you and her voice dropped. velvet and sharp.

“what did you hear?”

your stomach dropped.

“i— what?”

karina didn’t push. she only tilted her head like she was looking through you, not at you.

“it’s not a bad thing.” she said softly. 

“you’re just a little quiet now.”

you swallowed. “just thinking.”

that was your second mistake.

her hand lifted and brushed the side of your neck. then her thumb caught the edge of your jaw.

“i know who you’re thinking about.”

your breath caught.

she said it like a dare.

you didn’t nod or speak. but your silence was a yes.

her thumb traced under your eye and you swore she could feel your pulse under her fingers.

“you’re a terrible liar, baby.” she whispered.

“i didn’t mean to— i just overheard—” your voice broke.

“i know.” she hushed you instantly, forehead brushing against yours.

“but now you know how much you matter to me.”

her hand curved around your jaw and tilted your face just so your eyes met hers again.

“i lost someone before. it won’t happen again.” she said, voice barely audible.

you felt her words more than you heard them. you felt it everywhere in your body. 

she leaned in and kissed your cheek softly.

then your temple.

then the corner of your mouth.

“i won’t lose you.” she murmured, and this time it felt like a promise with weight to it. 

like a vow.

you were still trying to breathe when her lips grazed your ear.

“you’re mine, right?”

your lips parted. “karina—”

“say yes.”

and when you didn’t answer, she kissed you.

it wasn’t urgent.

it was slow.

like she had all the time in the world to unravel you.

when she pulled back, your whole body felt light.

ning’s voice rang out from the living room. 

“if no one’s picking a movie, i’m making us watch the notebook again!”

you were still in a daze, heart thudding from the way karina had kissed you like she already owned the part of you you were still trying to understand.

aeri groaned. “i swear to god, ning—”

you stood, slow and little unsteady, your skin still tingled. you didn’t even make it a full step before—

her hand wrapped around your wrist.

“wait.”

you turned.

karina sat there on the couch, legs pulled up and hoodie sleeves too long past her wrists. for once, she didn’t look like the girl who had the entire school wrapped around her finger. she didn’t look like the untouchable center of the universe, or the beautiful girl who whispered your name like a secret. she just looked…

soft?

her hair was a little messy from your hands and her lips were pink and slightly swollen from the kisses you just shared. 

and when she looked up at you, there was no teasing glint in her eyes.

it was something she’d never let anyone else see.

“can’t we stay in a little longer?” she asked, quieter this time.

and it wasn’t about the others. it wasn’t about the movie.

it was about you. about the fact that something in her unraveled when it was just the two of you. something she didn’t let anyone else close enough to see.

your heart broke a little in the best way.

she looked down for a second, fingers curled around your wrist. “just for a minute. just you and me.” she added.

you sat back down.

her hand was still on you.

“i can’t say no to you even if i wanted to.”

“you’re not supposed to.”

you didn’t know how to look at her. you didn’t know how to not look at her.

and then she leaned in again, forehead resting gently against yours. her eyes fluttered like this was the only place she could breathe.

you swallowed, barely holding it together. 

“you okay?”

she nodded after a while, but it was slow. like she didn’t trust her voice yet. “i just… i don’t get this feeling with anyone else.” her voice broke a little.

you folded. completely.

your chest ached and your hands moved on their own, sliding up to cup her face. 

“you make me insane.” you whispered.

karina laughed under her breath. she opened her eyes.

“i win.” she said, quieter this time.

you smiled helplessly. “win what?”

she leaned forward until her nose brushed yours. “whatever game you think we’re playing.”

there was that again. 

you didn’t answer.

you couldn’t.

because you knew that she wasn’t playing.

and for once, neither were you.

karina sighed, already standing. but she reached for your hand like it was instinct. 

then fingers laced with yours.

“come on.” she said.

you followed her out.

  ───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

ning had already claimed the comfiest spot on the couch, mystery drink in one hand and the tv remote in the other. she was wearing fuzzy socks, phone lighting up every few seconds.

aeri was stretched out across the floor with a pillow under her head, scrolling through tiktok and arguing with ning about everything.

“we’re not watching a movie where the guy literally dies in the rain, ning.”

“he dies in the bedroom, aeri. after loving her for like sixty years.”

you stepped in with karina still holding your hand, and they both looked up for one second.

aeri smirked. “took you long enough.”

karina cut in before you could say anything. 

“y/n needed help with something. zippers are hard.” she said, so sweet it made your pulse stutter.

ning choked on her drink. “excuse me?!”

you turned, ready to hit karina with a you did not just say that, but she was already plopping down onto and crossing her legs like nothing happened. she tugged you down next to her, hand still warm around yours. her arm brushed your shoulder like a secret no one else was allowed to know.

ning leaned closer with a wicked gaze. 

“you two are freaks.”

“romantic freaks.” aeri corrected.

“lovers.” ning said.

karina smiled, resting her chin on your shoulder like it belonged there.

aeri finally tossed her phone down. “listen! movie time. i’m not sitting through another failed vote.”

“i already said the notebook—” ning started.

“and we said no. too soft. we need violence. blood. screaming.” 

“that’s… a shift.”

“i want to see people running for their lives, babes. scream. classic. camp. a cultural reset.”

“i agree. the notebook is too straight.” karina said.

ning groaned. “you are so gay.”

aeri sat up, suddenly way too enthusiastic.

“uh uh. you cannot tell me ghostface isn’t hilarious. and iconic. and hot. scream is literally a comfort movie.”

“comfort?? people die.” you asked. 

“exactly. makes my problems feel small.”

“i don’t mind. i’ve seen worse things before.” karina hummed. 

ning turned to you with a dramatic gasp. 

“is she talking about you?”

you shoved a pillow at her.

karina just laughed, pulling you in. her arm slipped behind you on the couch, fingers lightly brushing against your shoulder. 

“let her pick it. it’s her first group movie night.” karina said.

“wait— me?”

three pairs of eyes turned on you. karina tilted her head, curious.

you swallowed. “uhh… something scary is fine?”

aeri smiled. 

“this is why i fuck with you.”

“i’d hate to have to hold you if you get scared.” karina laughed. 

“you would love to hold me.” you gave her a look. 

“guilty.”

ning clicked the remote, scrolling. “okay, whatever, scream it is.”

the movie started and the room dimmed. 

you leaned into karina and her thumb was now lazily brushing your arm. she didn’t flinch at anything. of course she didn’t.

halfway through the first kill, you felt her lean in.

“you’re blushing again.” she whispered, lips barely brushing your ear.

you couldn’t help it.

because even while ghostface chased teenagers around in a suburban house, all you could focus on was her.

   ───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

the movie ended in a mess of blood with the credits rolling. ning was laid out across the couch dramatically, half sleeping.

aeri was halfway into her phone, texting with one hand. “that was not scary.” she mumbled. 

but karina hadn’t moved.

she was still beside you, elbow resting on the back of the couch behind you. her fingers grazed the edge of your shoulder.

you turned to look at her.

“be honest. you hated it.”

she smiled without looking at you, her eyes still on the credits. “i didn’t hate it.”

you raised a brow. 

“i liked watching you more. you get all quiet when you’re scared.” she added, turning to meet your gaze.

“that’s because i’m trying not to scream.” you scoffed. 

karina tilted her head while smirking. “you can scream around me.”

your heart was stuttering.

“karina—”

“you always say my name like it’s a question. like you’re not sure i’m real.” she murmured, brushing a strand of your hair behind your ear.

“sometimes i’m not.” you admitted. 

that made her pause.

she studied you, eyes unreadable, then sat back a little to really look at you.

and then her hand, the one resting near your shoulder, moved with her fingertips trailing gently across your collarbone like she was drawing a shape only she could see. her thumb brushed the strap of your top.

“you don’t show this side to anyone else, do you?” you asked, half whisper.

karina smiled. “no.”

and there was something about the way she said it. it was honest. and maybe a little scared.

you didn’t even realize you were leaning in until your nose brushed hers.

“i like you like this.” you murmured.

her breath hitched and then her lips were on yours, gentler than you expected. 

you could never get enough of her lips.

she didn’t pull away, mouth moving to your jaw, then your neck, leaving soft, slow kisses down to your collarbone like she wasn’t in a rush.

like she was memorizing you. 

your fingers found the hem of her shirt, anchoring yourself.

she kissed your shoulder once more then pulled back just enough to meet your eyes.

“you’re dangerous.” you whispered.

karina smiled “i know.”

then ning called out from the kitchen, “if you’re making out again, at least wait until i’m asleep!”

you jumped. karina didn’t react.

she just looked up at you with a gaze that made your heart stop and reached for your wrist.

you stood first, dizzy with affection, and she gently tugged you back.

and of course you obeyed. 

you rode with karina to school the next morning.

“you’re staring.” she said, tone light.

“i wasn’t.” you lied. obviously.

she smirked, one hand drifting from the wheel to rest on your knee.

“you were.”

you didn’t deny it this time. you were still a little dizzy from last night. from the way she said ‘can’t we stay a little longer.’ from the way she kissed you. from the way her voice dropped when she called you baby.

karina slowed the car, parking into her usual spot out front because of course she parked like she owned the school. a few students glanced over, taking mental notes who was in the car with her this morning. you weren’t imagining the change in attention.

and then— sunghoon.

he looked up as karina changed the gearshift into park, expression freezing the moment your eyes met. the moment he saw her.

he straightened instantly. paled even.

then bowed.

like a full ninety-degree ‘i fear for my life’ type of bow.

karina smiled slowly with her sunglasses still on. one hand draped casually over the steering wheel. “cute.”

you didn’t even have time to ask what that was about before she was opening your door for you like a chauffeur.

“come on.” she said smoothly, eyes falling to your lips for just a second.

she always made it feel like walking beside her was a privilege.

like being with her meant something dangerous.

and judging by the way people stared as you walked into school with her, they knew it too.

───────── ౨ৎ ─────────

you spotted minjeong near the lockers with her hoodie half zipped and earbuds tucked into her collar.

she looked up right as you stepped away from karina’s side.

“i’ll be right back.” you said, already moving.

karina caught your wrist.

her thumb brushed the inside of your pulse as if she was memorizing the rhythm. “where are you going?” she asked, head tilting like a puppy. 

except a puppy wouldn’t be wearing tinted dior lenses and a diamond studded earring.

you glanced at minjeong again. “to talk to her.”

“…now?”

you tried not to smile. “yeah. now.”

karina didn’t let go just yet. her pout was so slight and so subtle that you almost missed it. “i was gonna walk you to class.”

“i’ll only be a minute.”

she let your wrist go with a sigh that was a little too dramatic to be serious.

“fine. one minute. sixty seconds. that’s it.”she said. 

you shot her a look. “are you gonna time me?”

“i’ve already started.” she said.

“fifty nine.”

you rolled your eyes and turned toward minjeong who had absolutely seen all of that.

she didn’t say anything right away. her jaw was tight like she had been holding something in too long.

you leaned against the locker beside hers. 

“hey.”

“hey. you still haven’t seen her real side, huh?” she said. 

“what do you mean?”

minjeong didn’t look at you.

“you know what i mean.” she mumbled.

“karina doesn’t just let people in. she chooses. and when she does it’s not always a good thing.”

you shifted uncomfortably. “she’s been sweet, actually.”

minjeong looked at you now, finally. and her eyes were tired.

“she’s been obsessive. that’s how it starts.” she said.

you tried to speak but her next question caught you off guard.

“have you heard from jiwon?”

you shook your head, guilt creeping in. 

“she blocked me.”

minjeong furrowed her eyebrows.

“she what?”

“she blocked me after i asked her about yujin. i haven’t heard anything since.” you admit. 

minjeong looked like she was doing math in her head.

your throat felt tight. “you think karina—?”

minjeong shut her eyes for a moment. “i think you need to be careful. that’s all i’m saying.”

you were about to respond when karina appeared with a smile on her face. 

“time’s up.”

you groaned.

“unbelievable.” minjeong mumbled. 

the smile told you that she heard all of it.

“ready?” karina asked, already matching your stride without waiting for an answer.

you nodded. and she didn’t take your hand this time. just brushed her fingers against yours. 

you glanced up at her, trying to read her face. but she was unreadable in the way that made your chest flutter. calm, composed, and a little too quiet. 

“you’re distracted.” she said after a few steps. 

“she asked about jiwon.”

karina didn’t answer. not right away. but you could see the smile tug at the corner of her mouth, like she knew you would bring it up. like she was waiting for it.

“i’m gonna stop by the counselor’s office.” she said instead. 

“why?”

“finishing something up.”

you stopped walking. she took one more step before turning back toward you.

there was something in her eyes now. the kind of look that made your breath catch even when she wasn’t saying anything.

she leaned in close with a low voice. 

“you should tell minjeong to be careful, too.”

your heart thudded once, hard.

“…karina?”

but she just smiled like she didn’t just say something vaguely threatening.

“don’t look at me like that. i’m being good.” she said, brushing your hair behind your ear gently. 

“you’re being cryptic.”

“i’m being considerate.” she corrected. 

then she leaned in. "you don’t want me to show you what not being good looks like.”

you knew she was teasing. mostly. but it still made your knees weak.

and then, like nothing had happened, she stepped back.

“i’ll see you at lunch. don’t miss me too much.” she said with a soft little smirk as she turned. you stood there for a bit too long, dizzy with affection and dread equally. and the worst part? you already missed her.

taglist — @saysirhc @prologue-ae @yuyuy90 (@spidrgamer @sh1ba100 @1800hotnfunn)

[blushsturns]

can you write like either a blurb / new series on bsf matt x inexperienced reader? not necessarily like she’s innocent but more like she’s just never done anything, and he like teaches her everything and stuff

pairing: bsf!matt x inexperienced!reader

title: lessons

warnings: this work contains explicit content, but it is all consensual! m!receiving, f!receiving, pet names, pure filth.

w/c: 6307

you and matt have been best friends for as long as you can remember. he was always there for you, no matter what. nick and chris were your best friends too, but you always had a special place in your heart for matt. he understood you, listened to your feelings, spent time with you, and always protected you. people always assumed you two were dating because you were just that close. the bond you two had was impeccable and so special to you. 

when you got your heart broken, matt was there to pick up the pieces. he’d hold you tight, remind you that you deserved so much better, and find ways to make you feel better like having a movie night or going for a late-night drive to get the greasiest, indulging fast food to help soothe your soul. 

little did he know, matt didn’t even have to try very hard. just by being around him, you felt safe and secure. you always wondered what it would be like to be loved by him. sure, he loved you, but you always assumed he looked at you as his girl best friend and nothing more. when those thoughts would arise, you’d push them to the back of your head. 

friday night you had a date with a guy that your friend set you up with. you really didn’t want to go, but you’ve already put it off two times before and couldn’t get it out of this time. you were worried because you haven’t dated very much. sure, you’ve had a couple boyfriends, but they all weren’t right for you and ended up breaking your heart in the process. your last boyfriend got fed up with you because he complained that you didn’t ‘put out’ like other girls and didn’t satisfy his needs. it really took a toll on your confidence. 

it’s not that you were innocent. you knew all about sex and foreplay, you’ve been kissed before and you knew what to do when it came to sexual endeavors, but the problem was how to do it all. maybe you were inexperienced and that was your problem when it came to relationships. 

an idea popped into your head when you were hanging out with matt. you were lying next to him in his bed and watching a movie on his tv, but your mind wasn’t focused on the screen in front of you. “hey, matt?” you broke the silence, turning your body onto your side to look over at him, biting gently onto your bottom lip in a nervous manner. 

he immediately turned his head away from the screen to look over at you, his eyebrow furrowed up as he stared at you, his ocean blue eyes focused solely on you now. “what is it, ladybug?”

the nickname he gave you always caused your cheeks to turn a bright shade of pink and butterflies to roam in your tummy and you weren’t sure why. it’s not like this was the first time he’s called you that, or that it had any other meaning behind it. you flashed him a small smile, shrugging your shoulders nonchalantly, blowing a tiny raspberry out past your lips. “well, i was wondering if i could ask you something?”

he was really curious now as he grabbed the remote and paused the movie so that there wasn’t any distractions. he’d rather pay attention to you, anyway. “you can ask me anything.”

matt could tell you were nervous to ask him as you bit onto your bottom lip again, staring directly at him with your cheeks flushed. “well, you’ve had sex and done sexual things with girls, right? how was the experience?” 

he nearly choked on his own spit in surprise at your sudden questions, sitting up now onto the bed, his attention fully and directly on you. he wondered why you were randomly asking him these kinds of questions since it was out of the ordinary and not usually something you discuss as friends. “ladybug, why are you asking me these questions?”

you let a soft sigh emit from your lips before blowing another raspberry past your lips, placing a strand of your hair over your ear as you tried your best to keep your eyes locked onto matt. he looked baffled at the fact that you’d ask him such questions because you’ve never done anything like it before “well, i’m curious. i have a date on friday and i’m nervous.” you chewed onto your bottom lip for a moment before speaking again. “my past relationships never worked out and i never felt confident, like sexually with them. i’m thinking i might need some tips.”

your cheeks were extremely hot at this point and felt as if they could stay a permanent pink color that had tinted all over your cheeks. you looked at him the entire time, trying to read his facial expressions. he looked completely surprised at the sudden twist in conversation but also seemed quite curious at the same time. 

“and you want tips from me?” he pointed to himself as if he didn’t already know the answer. you nodded your head, a soft giggle emitting from your lips. “yes, silly. who else would i feel comfortable asking? i was wondering if you could maybe show me a couple things. just so i can be prepared for this friday.” you bit down onto your bottom lip again as you awaited his reply. sometimes it was really hard to read matt, even with his body language or facial expressions.

he looked like he was pondering this for a moment before finally speaking up. “okay, i’ll help you but only because i care about you and want the best for you. i’ll kick a guy’s ass if they hurt my ladybug ever again, got it?”

another soft giggle emitted from your lips at his words, nodding your head a little too eagerly, but you couldn’t help it. excitement rolled through you, but also a bit of nervousness. you knew what you were asking of him, and you hoped it wouldn’t ruin the amazing friendship and bond that you both have built to last a lifetime. “can we..start now? i was thinking maybe you can let me know if i’m a good kisser?”

you really semed to pique matt’s interest now. his eyes averted down to your lips, licking his own lips, before looking back up into your eyes, a taunting smile appearing onto his lips. “okay, that can be arranged. c’mere.” he motioned for you to scoot closer to him on the bed, his smile only widening by the second.

even though this was your idea entirely, your heart rate began to quicken with nervousness running throughout your entire body. you nodded your head at his command, scooting closer to him and immediately settling into his lap, wrapping your legs around him comfortably. your pajama shorts rose up slightly to expose more of your thighs, your hands pressed against his chest. you giggled softly as you stared up at him, noticing his cheeks were also becoming slightly flushed at the sudden position you both were in. “hi.” 

“so, this is actually happening.” matt said right away, a soft laugh leaving his own lips as he moved his hands to place firmly against your hips and squeezed gently. “hi, ladybug. okay, well if you’re ready i’ll show you how it should feel when a boy is kissing you and what to do that will drive ‘em crazy.” 

you nodded your head at his instructions, your cheeks still violently warm as you moved one of your hands to place against his broad shoulder. your hand pressed firmly against it, a shaky breath leaving your lips. “yes, please.” 

his lips curved up into a devilish smirk, moving one of his hands to place his index finger underneath your chin, your eyes immediately locking together in an intense gaze. your heart was already beating rapidly out of your chest, and you were so sure that not only could he feel it, but he could hear it too. “move your other hand here.” he took ahold of your hand that was in your lap and placed it on his other shoulder to keep you steady on his lap. 

before you even had any more time to process what was happening, you felt matt’s lips press firmly against yours causing a soft gasp to emit from your lips. it took a couple seconds for your brain to actually register what was happening considering this was your best friend in the whole entire world. you eventually settled into the kiss with your eyes fluttering closed and pressing your lips back against his deeply. your hands stayed rested onto his shoulders, the pads of your thumbs rubbing slow circles against his shoulders through the fabric of his shirt. butterflies roamed in your tummy at the feeling of his lips against yours, electricity running throughout your veins. 

it’s weird, you’ve never had this kind of feeling before with anyone else you kissed. it was a good feeling. more than good, actually. he pressed his lips a little deeper onto yours, a soft hum emitting from his lips throughout the kiss which almost drove you absolutely insane. you melted into him, moving your arms to wrap around his neck to pull him impossibly closer, your fingers now tangling into his tousled brunette locks. he hummed again, his tongue tracing your bottom lip which caused a soft gasp to emit from your lips. you immediately parted your lips to allow his tongue to enter your mouth, your tongues now colliding together slowly and teasingly causing a soft whimper to leave your lips. 

you couldn’t control the sounds that were spilling from your mouth, and matt didn’t seem to mind it. complete opposite actually considering his hand was now moving down your back to your ass and used the back of his palm to push your ass up into him. another gasp emitted from your lips as he pushed your hips into his and you instantly felt his hardening bulge through the fabric of his sweatpants. this was like nothing you’ve ever experienced before, and it left you hungry for more. 

your tongues fought together in a dominant battle as he used both hands to place onto your ass, continuing to encourage you to grind your hips against his hardened cock. you allowed him to push your hips into his, loving the feeling of his hands on your ass and the feeling of his cock hardening and twitching against you. matt really knew what he was doing, and it was such a turn on to see. you knew that matt has been with other girls before, but fuck, he really knew what he was doing and how to get a girl going.

you could feel your arousal dampening your panties through the thin material of your shorts as his hardening cock continued to push up into your center. you were the first one to pull away to catch your labored breathing, a soft whimper emitting from your lips at the friction of your hips circling against him. you opened up your eyes to stare down at him with rosy cheeks, your hips stilling but pressed firmly down against his cock through the fabric of his sweatpants that you wish could just fly off him this very second. your heartbeat rapidly in your chest, immediately biting down onto your bottom lip in a nervous manner, still tasting his lips against yours. “wow.” you breathed out, a tiny giggle emitting from your lips. “that was..wow. you really know how to make a girl feel good, even from just a kiss.”

his lips curved up into a slight smirk, his hands gripping your ass once more, his fingers kneading into your flesh through the thin material of your pajama shorts. “not just any kiss. a full on makeout session. can you feel how excited i got?” 

your eyes moved down to the front of his sweatpants, noticing his evident, prominent bulge through the material. he was fucking huge. without even thinking, you moved one of your hands down to press against it, watching it twitch underneath your touch with a soft grunt coming from the back of matt’s throat. you nodded your head at his question, your lips curving up into a daunting smile. “this is all from kissing me, matty?”

he nodded his head confidently, moving one of his hands to grip your face with force causing you to gasp in surprise at the sudden movement. your lips were inches apart, his hot and heavy breath lingering against your lips as he murmurs, “damn right it is. what are you gonna do about it?”

your eyes widened in surprise at his words with your hand still pressed against his cock through the fabric, feeling him twitch against your hand. knowing that he got this hard for you and you only were such a turn on. your panties were pretty much soaked now with your own arousal, your breath hitching as your own breath lingers against his lips. “you want me to take care of you?” you asked shyly, biting onto your bottom lip once again.

he nods his head confidently, his lips curving up into a sly smirk. “yes, ladybug. think you can do that for me? i’ll walk you through the steps. you’re learning, remember?”

after the intoxicating kiss that you just had with your best friend, you had completely forgot that you were doing all this for a reason. for another boy. you don’t know why that made the pit of your stomach feel unnerved, but you decided to push that to the back of your head and focus on the task at hand. even though this was matt, your best friend, you were a little worried. any time that a boy would ask you to touch them or go down on them, you’d make any excuse in the book. your favorite one was that you played hard to get and liked to build suspense for each and every time you hung out. eventually, they caught on to your excuses and didn’t want to deal with it anymore. it was sad that boys only seemed to want one thing, but you wanted to be prepared.

you nodded your head, your breath caught in your throat. your fingers danced along the outline of his cock through the fabric of his sweatpants, his cock twitching at the sensation. “i can do it. just tell me what to do.” 

he hissed through his teeth at the feeling of your fingers tracing over his hardened cock, pushing his hips up slightly into your touch, looking up at you with lust and desire filling his gaze. you’ve never seen him like this before and you were loving every second of it. “well, you can start by getting these pants off me.” he let out a soft chuckle, moving his hand to grab onto yours to pull it up towards the hem of his pants. 

your shaky hands helped him tug his sweatpants off his body, unhooking your legs from his waist so he could shimmy his way out of them and kicking the onto the floor. he was left in his boxers, his hardened cock restraining against the fabric. you were extremely nervous, but also excited. this was matt, your best friend. you felt comfortable and safe with him and glad that he was the first one you were doing this with. 

while on your knees next to him, you looked up at him with the most innocent expression you could muster up. “you’re so big, matty. i had no idea.” your fingers shakily move to slide between the waistband of his boxers and immediately began tugging them down and off his legs. an immediate gasp escaped your lips at the sight of him. he was fucking huge. your mouth practically watered and you could feel your center begin to throb at the sight. “shit.” you muttered out as you stared at him, licking over your lips in a hungry motion. his cock was really fucking nice, the tip of it already leaking a bit of pre-cum.

“like what you see, baby?” he smirked up at you as his cock sprang free, the cold air causing a slight hiss to leave his lips. you nodded your head slowly, a small smile creeping up onto your face. you watched as he spit into his hand and began to lather up his cock with his own hand from the base to the tip as he smeared the pre-cum that was coated there.

“so tell me what to do.” you ask him innocently, biting gently onto your bottom lip.

“wrap your hand around it like this.” he grabbed your hand and immediately wrapped your hand around the base of his cock, your fingers locking around it. his cock immediately twitched at the feeling of your hand finally against his flesh as he let out a soft grunt. “fuck, yeah, like that. then you can begin pumping at it. don’t be afraid to add some extra pressure.”

his words were reassuring and helped calm you as you listened to everything he said. you nodded your head as your hand began to pump his cock up and down slowly as you gripped him a little tighter like he commanded. you must’ve been doing it right because he immediately threw his head back against the pillow, a satisfied grunt leaving the back of his throat. “fuck, just like that. such a good girl.” he cooed proudly.

you felt the confidence building up inside of you at his words and watching his reactions. he seemed to be enjoying it which meant you weren’t so bad at it after all. you continued to pump his cock at a steady pace, moving your hand up each and every time and circling your thumb along the tip to gather more of the pre-cum and lather it along his cock. he angled his head towards you to watch you, his ocean blue eyes visibly darker with desire filling his gaze. 

watching him like this was only turning you on even more. you could feel your own arousal coating your panties, your center throbbing as you let out a soft whimper. you could begin to rut your hips against the bed for friction, but you wanted to focus solely on matt and the task at hand in front of you. “i’m doing it, ain’t i? do you feel good, matty?”

he nods his head at you, his vision hazy and filled with lust. “yeah, baby. just a little faster and you can squeeze harder. you won’t hurt me. feels s’good, promise.” he reassured you as he sat up slightly with his elbow propped up onto the bed, moving his other hand up to place a strand of your hair over your ear.

you lean into his touch for a brief moment before immediately getting back to it; wrapping your hand around his cock tighter, giving him a harder squeeze as you continued to pump him in your hand steadily. this elicited some drawled-out moans from matt, his hand moving over to your chest and immediately began to grasp your breast through the material of your tank top. your nipple hardened at the feel of his hand against you, the pad of his thumb instantly finding your hardened nipple and began to circle it in slow, circular motions causing a soft sigh to emit from your lips. 

as good as he made you felt, you couldn’t get distracted and had to make sure you were fully satisfying him. without hesitation, you leaned down to swipe your tongue along the tip of his cock, your hand still wrapped around the base of it. matt’s eyes widened in surprise at your sudden movement, placing both of his elbows on the bed now to keep himself propped up. “what are you-“

you look up at him as you hear the surprise in his tone, flashing him a small smile before flicking your tongue against his tip once again to get a taste; the salty taste of his pre-cum now coating your tongue. “just guide my head if you have to. i wanna try everything. is that okay?”

“it’s more than okay, sweetheart. fuck, such a good girl.” he grunted his words out, moving one of his hands over to run his fingers throughout your hair. 

you flashed him another grin before moving your head back down and immediately parting your lips to take the tip of his cock between them, your eyes closing shut. you weren’t completely clueless. you’ve seen porn, you’ve read stories. you knew the basics; you’ve just never done it in person before. not until now. 

matt groaned at the feeling of your mouth on him, his fingers running throughout your hair as he watched you the entire time. he was in absolute awe of you and couldn’t look away. you kept your hand wrapped around the base of his cock as you hollowed out your cheeks and began to take his cock down your throat, inch by inch until you felt the tip hit the back of your throat causing your eyes to water and you began to gag slightly. you pulled away a bit to relax, a couple of tears spilling down your cheeks from your mouth being so full and your damn gag reflux. “are you okay?” matt asked in worrisome tone, his hand pulling on your head with a bit of force to pull you off him to get you to look at him.

you immediately nodded your head, taking in a deep and shaky breath, a string of saliva at the corner of your lips. “just trying to figure it out. i’ll get it. promise.” 

he nodded his head, running his fingers throughout your hair to make you feel reassured and relax you. “just don’t push yourself, ladybug. you’re doing amazing. i promise.”

you flashed him a reassuring smile, nodding your head before positioning yourself more comfortably in front of him on your knees as his cock twitched against hand. you leaned down once again, your tongue rolling along the tip of his cock before dragging you tongue down his shaft to the underside of his cock across his veins. your eyes darted up as you heard his pretty moans, his head thrown back onto his shoulders. his cheeks were flushed, and his chest was heaving up and down. 

your hand gripped the base of his cock tightly as you suddenly leaned down once again to take his cock in between your lips once again and down your throat. you started off slow this time, hollowing your cheeks to get enough room as you began to bob your head in a slow motion. matt groaned loudly, his fingers tugging your hair with force now to keep your head directly onto his cock, not that you were going anywhere anytime soon.

you relaxed your throat muscles as you began to bob your head with a bit more speed. each time you came up to the top, your tongue would dart across the tip of his cock causing his hips to jerk up against your mouth and making your head move back down onto his length. “fuck, such a good girl f’me.” he groaned out breathlessly, tugging onto your head to keep it in place. 

your own pussy throbbed at the feeling and taste of his cock in your mouth, but you weren’t focused on your needs right now at all. you just wanted to satisfy matt and possibly get him to cum down your throat. you continued to bob your head up and down against his length, your hand squeezing the base tightly as you looked up at him through your eyelashes for his reactions. he looked so fucking beautiful, and you weren’t sure how you could have anyone else’s cock down your throat if they weren’t your best friend’s. 

you could tell he was getting close. his cock twitched inside of your mouth, causing a soft whimper to leave your lips. he rutted his hips up into your mouth, causing your mouth to take more of him into your mouth. your eyes watered as you blinked them and allowed the tears to fall down your cheeks, bobbing your head at a faster pace. “fuck. i’ gonna cum baby. you might wanna pull away unless you want me to cum down your pretty throat.” he warned you, his fingers still tugging onto your hair to keep your head in place. 

“want to.” you said breathlessly when you pulled away for a moment to catch your breath, a string of salvia hanging from the corner of your mouth. “need the practice.” you muttered before immediately sinking your head back down against his cock, bobbing your head up and down against him at a steady pace and allowing the tip to graze the back of your throat causing muffled moans to leave your lips against his cock.

his cock twitched repeatedly into your mouth, a string of moans fell from matt’s lips as he shouted out that he was about to cum. before you knew it, sticky, salty ropes of cum shot inside of your mouth and down your throat as your head was being tugged on to be held in place as he rutted his hips up into your face, loud groans leaving the back of his throat. he emptied his load down your throat, soft moans leaving your lips and muffling against his cock.

once he released your head from his spent cock, you pulled away and immediately swallowed what was inside of your mouth, licking over your lips before flashing him a devious smirk. “that doesn’t taste so bad at all.” you cooed at him, a soft giggle leaving your lips. a bit of cum was still present at the corner of your lip and matt immediately used the pad of his thumb to wipe it away. your heart was beating rapidly in your chest and your jaw ached now, but it was well worth it. especially by the look on matt’s face, he was spent, blissed out, and extremely proud of you. 

“fuck, ladybug. you did that. you fucking did that. you were incredible.” he flashed you a tired, but extremely proud grin. he moved his hand to run throughout your hair once again. “i think it’s time that i return the favor. what do you think, hm?”

your cheeks were completely flushed as you stayed perched on your knees, feeling your own arousal soaking your panties through the fabric. just by tasting him, touching him, getting him off made you incredibly turned on and your heart continues to beat rapidly in your chest at the thought of how amazing matt probably is at making a girl feel good. “i’ve never had anyone-“

he cut you off with his index finger immediately pressed to your lips, his words coming out soft and reassuring. “i’ll show you how a real man should make a girl feel. you just relax, okay?”

you nodded your head at him, excitement and nervousness rolling through you. he motions for you to lay back against the bed with your head hitting the pillow. matt immediately spreads your legs open with the palms of his hands, positioning himself in front of you. you stared at him, your cheeks permanently flushed at this point and biting gently onto your bottom lip. he used the pads of his thumbs to caress your inner thighs, circling them in a slow motion, causing your body to relax against the mattress. 

his hand traveled up from your inner thigh to the hem of your pajama shorts and began tugging them down your body and allowing them to fall off the bed. you were left in your soaked panties and thin tank top, your cheeks only warming up even more by the second. he stared at you longingly, a slight smirk tugging onto his own lips. “absolutely beautiful. i can tell how soaked you are, baby.”

you cover your face with your hands to try and hide, a soft groan leaving your lips and you try to close your legs, but matt immediately spreads them again before pulling your hands away from your face and placing his hands in yours. his face was inches apart from yours, his eyes staying locked onto yours with intensity filling his gaze. “you’re beautiful. you don’t have to hide, it’s just me.” 

his words were reassuring and comforting and all you could do was nod your head, your lips curving up into a shy smile. “i trust you.” you murmured softly.

he smirked at you, his eyes staying locked onto yours for a brief moment before pulling his gaze towards your center. he used the pad of his thumb to begin circling your clit through the fabric of your lacy panties, causing a soft gasp to emit from your lips. 

you’ve touched yourself many times before, but having someone else touch you was a completely different experience. he slowly slid your underwear over to the side to expose your soaking wet pussy, causing a shudder to run down your spine from the cold air hitting against you. his breath hitched as he stared down at you, licking over his lips in a hungry motion, a soft hum emitting from his lips. “so pretty, baby.” he spoke softly, his middle finger running up and down your dripping folds, his finger immediately coated with your arousal. “so fuckin’ wet.”

you moaned softly at the feeling of his finger against you, biting gently onto your bottom lip to try and contain your moans, but you knew it would be impossible. you looked down to watch matt as he positioned himself in front of you, so he was directly in front of your soaking wet pussy, his mouth practically drooling at the sight. his finger continued to run up and down your soaking wet folds, dipping his finger into slightly into your hole to gather the slick before pulling his finger back up, lazily rubbing your clit in slow circles. “f-feels good.” you breathed out, your gaze never pulling from his movements. you felt your heartbeat picking up once he dipped his finger right back into your tight entrance. you used his free hand to slip underneath the back of your thigh to pull you even impossibly closer against his face. 

“i’m gonna taste you and use my fingers, okay ladybug? tell me how it feels.” he looked up at you for your approval and all you could think to do was nod your head, your brain cloudy and foggy and unable to comprehend anything else but matt and the way he made you feel. he slid your underwear off you so that they wouldn’t be in the way and allowing them to fall onto the ground with the midst of clothes already piled there.

he slowly slipped his finger deeper inside of your tight pussy as you immediately clenched around the single digit causing a soft groan to leave his lips. you watched him the entire time, his focus intently on you and making sure that you felt good. your brain was clouded, your body was floating, and your heart was pounding incredibly fast. you’ve fingered yourself before to experiment and get a feel for what it would actually feel like, but you already could tell the difference. this was even better.

his finger immediately was coated with your slick arousal as he began to pump it in and out of your tight entrance, causing a low moan to leave your lips. without hesitation, he slipped his ring finger inside of you as well, causing a soft gasp to escape your lips at the sudden fullness. the sounds of your slick arousal coating his fingers with each and every thrust echoed throughout the room, and this was probably could’ve embarrassed you from how fucking soaked you were, but all you could focus on was how good it felt.

he tilted his wrist with his palm facing out to slide his fingers even deeper inside of your gummy walls causing your head to throw back against the pillow, louder moans leaving your lips. “oh fuck!” you cried out in ecstasy, pushing your hips up slightly as you felt every inch of his fingers pumping into you. 

just when you thought the pleasure was already intense, he leaned down and immediately flicked his tongue along your clit repeatedly before taking it between his lips and sucking onto it, a soft moan leaving his lips and muffling against you. you gasp out in pleasure, instantly extending your arm out to find the top of his head and grabbing a fistful of his hair, moans falling from your lips.

he moaned against you as the sweet taste of your arousal coated his tongue, his fingers still pumping in and out of you at a steady pace, going deeper and harder with each and every thrust as his tongue swiped across your clit repeatedly. he looked up at you through his motions for your reactions, your eyes opening to lock them with his and the sight of him between your legs was such a fucking turn on. you’ve always wondered what it would be like to be eaten out, and holy shit, this didn’t disappoint.

he used the command motion with his fingers inside of you to hit your sweet spot, his tongue rolling around your swollen nub causing you to gasp out breathlessly, “so so close!” you were so close to approaching your orgasm and you had no idea it was even possible to feel this immense amount of pleasure at one time, if at all. 

matt moaned again against your pussy that muffled against you, his tongue tracing up and down your slick, his fingers repeatedly hitting your sweet spot causing you to let out breathy moans. he pulled away only for a moment, licking over his lips as your arousal coated his lips and his chin. “cum f’me, pretty girl. come on. wanna taste you on my tongue.”

his words were the final straw. your fingers tugged into his hair harshly to keep his head still on your pussy as you let out a string of profanities and moans, pushing your hips up into his as the fire coursed throughout your veins, white stars dancing along your eyelids, your free hand gripping against the bed sheet. “fuck, matty. g-gonna cum!” your gummy walls immediately clenched around his fingers tightly as you came around his fingers and tongue. your sweet arousal coated his tongue, his fingers that were still pumping inside of you helping you rock through your orgasm. 

he moaned against you, his tongue lapping up your arousal. your swollen nub became overly sensitive very fast, a soft groan leaving your lips as you try to push his head away from your center while you come down from your intense high. he pulled away from you, his eyes opening as he stared up at you with a satisfied smirk on his face, licking over his lips to get the remainder of your arousal that had glistened upon his lips. he slid his fingers out of your tight heat, causing you to whimper at the sudden loss of contact. he got up onto his knees in front of you, his eyes staying locked onto yours the entire time. you watched his every move with your arousal coating his fingers as ran his tongue along his fingers to clean them, humming softly at the delectable taste of you. “so so sweet, for such a sweet girl.” 

your cheeks were extremely warm, a soft giggle emitting from your lips as you tried to control your heavy breathing. your mind was still foggy from your intense orgasm, your center now sore from the intensity of it all. it was well worth it, though.

you always knew matt would be fucking amazing at things like this and he exceeded every expectation. “wow.” you breathed out, another laugh emitting from your lips. “that was..wow.”

he let out a soft chuckle at your words, his lips curving up into a slight smirk at your reaction. “so, how do you think the lessons went?”

“absolutely incredible.” you said almost instantly, scooting up onto the bed and looking up at him with a small smile. “do you have any more lessons for me?”

he nodded his head at your words, his lips curving up into a wider smirk as he places his index finger against your chin to keep your eyes locked together, your breath hitching in your throat as your lips linger together. his hot and heavy breath falls against your lips as he whispers, “well how about this. take what i have taught you for now and use what you want with it with your own discretion, but don’t have sex with this guy, okay? save that for me and only me. got it?” 

you had almost forgot all about the guy you had a date with on friday. the entire reason why all of this had happened in the first place. you nodded your head slowly, flashing him a small, innocent smile. “are you saying you wanna be my first, matty?”

he moved his head down to begin pressing soft kisses to the crook of your neck, a soft hum emitting from his lips. your eyes fluttered closed, your head tilting up slightly, a content sigh leaving your lips. “fuck yeah i do. i think you got me hooked, ladybug.”

how the hell could you go on a date with another guy after this? 

taglist:

@sturnshood @strangelife122 @jessie-essie @rina3476 @chrissturnioloslvt @sturnslutz @sturns-mermaid @matthewsturnsgf @christmastreecake @rinahasspots @222wall876 @chris-hallelujah @izzylovesmatt @strniloslvts @oopsiedaisydeer @sophand4n4 @xclusivedesires @mattsplaything @katiebug3851 @poppingmypussy4chris @mattsbunnyxx @pair-of-pantaloons @chrissweetheart @slutformatt17 @sturnl0ve @pasteldreams @h3arts4harry @marrykisskilled @wh0remikasas @sturnzslut @camzeecorner @alesturniolos @emely9274 @2muchofaslvt @y3sterdaysproblem @sturnslux3 @bowsandsturniolos @moustacherryismyhusband @rafesapprentice @ivysturnss @headzgonewest @strawberryghost3 @il0vey0um0st @violetstxrniolo777 @bigbeefybitch @raesturns @courta13 @sofieeeeex @tylerthecreatorsglazr @sturniolochrismatt

a/n:

thank you for the request! if you have any more requests or just wanna talk, hit up my inbox! :)

-nessa ღ

[clockwayswrites]

Birds birbs birbritch - Part 29

masterpost this is a first draft, please no editing or concrit <3

“Well, there’s the my horde of children,” Bruce said, glanced to Steph, and added, “and otherwise.”

“Hi B,” Steph said with a large smile that was just a little too much tooth, “and hi Danny!”

“Hello Stephanie,” Danny said. His wings were pulled tight against his back, as if he could hide them from view.

He couldn’t.

“Sorry B,” Dick chirped with his most innocent smile, “we were in the middle of a Mario Kart battle and you know how those can get!”

“At least tell me nothing is broken,” Bruce said, sounding entirely resigned about it all.

“Nothing is broken. Yet.”

“Well… good enough, I suppose.” Bruce said. “Though everyone had better sit though before Alfred comes in and fusses.”

“Too late, Master Bruce,” Alfred drawled as he came into the room with serving tray in hand.

They all appropriately scrambled for seats.

What with Danny being there, the normal seating (not that it always stayed exactly the same) was thrown into complete disarray. Mostly this was because Damian insisted on sitting next to Danny while Cass took the seat across from him and Tim next to her. Dick tried to stuff back him smile, but Jason caught it and rolled his eyes at his brother.

Still, it was sort of nice, in a weird way like when big cats have a service dog, to see Damian having someone out of the family that he felt the need to look over and protect. The suddenness of it all was what bothered Jason. Cass meets the guy and he’s invited to the ballet. Tim sleeps in his office. Damian wants to protect him. Even Bruce was at ease earlier with Danny sleeping on his lap. It was just like Danny belong there in with the rest of their family.

Jason didn’t trust it.

He especially didn’t trust it because it seemed to be having an effect on him too. He hadn’t snooped nearly as much as he could have in Danny’s apartment. Hell, the revelations down in the Cave that they had just had didn’t bother him as much as they should have.

Jason looked across the table to Duke, who was squinting a little at Danny. Jason kicked Duke lightly under the table and tilted his head in question.

Duke rolled his eyes, but pulled out his phone and sent: He’s got, like, an aura about him.

Jason frowned, typing back quickly: Did he at the ballet?

Duke gave a little shrug, but shook his head.

Well, that was very interesting. Jason wished that Duke had seen Danny when he was in full bird form so that they could have had a full comparison, but this was something at least. Danny had admitted that he was a Meta, but was he a meta like Wally was or more like Duke or even Kori? The odd language certainly pointed more towards Duke or Kori.

Dick nudged Jason with his pointy elbow. When Jason glared at him, Dick just looked pointedly down at Jason’s plate and back up.

‘Eat,’ he mouthed.

Jason rolled his eyes, but dug into the meal. It was a vegetarian pasta of some sort. Salad and garlic bread were also on the table. Basically a nice, carb heavy meal to have after a long, hard day. Jason had to wonder if Alfred would even let any of them out tonight. None of the ‘kids’ for sure. Tim, Damian, and Steph were all certain to be grounded. Dick, Jason, and Cass could probably make a good argument to go out and get started on this Mad Hater thing, but Cass might prefer to stay close. Jason couldn’t really blame her for that if she did. She deserved to get to be close to her family.

Jason caught Dick’s gaze again, raising a curious brow with a little head motion down towards the Cave. Approximately.

Dick nodded, a seriousness in his eyes.

Okay, guess they had a plan.

-

Bruce found them as they were suiting up. He leaned against the Batcomputer and watched as Dick and Jason bickered and hindered each other actually being able to get dressed for patrol. It was good to see them able to be brothers like that again. Therapy with Harley had really been helping Jason and Bruce knew that Dick was seeing someone, even if he hadn’t pried into who. Bruce didn’t think it was fair too when it had taken him as long to start seeing help.

It was something he wish he had done far earlier.

Had pushed for all of them to do earlier.

“What are you brooding about over there, old man?” Jason called out. He’d finally wrestled his gloves back from Dick and was pulling them on.

“I can just be somewhere without brooding,” Bruce said.

Bruce sighed. “I was thinking how proud I am of both of you for making good of the therapy that you’ve been doing.”

There was a long silence before Jason mumbled ‘sap’ and ducked his head. Dick just grinned back, a faint blush on his cheeks. As old as they two were, they were still his kids.

“If I stay in tonight, will you two be fine out there?”

“Doubting us?” Jason asked. His voice changed part way through as he put on his mask and the modulation kicked in.

“Never,” Bruce said, which seemed to make Jason freeze again. “Just asking you want me out there as back up.”

“Stay in with the others,” Dick said with a little shake of his head. “I know they’ve brushed it off, but Dami and Tim have still been through a rough day. And Danny too. You should be around if anyone has issues in the night.”

“Let us go out and start investigating,” Hood added. Even with the mask, here was a softness to his voice. “We’ve got this.”

Bruce nodded. He knew they did. “I’ll keep a comm if you need me.”

“Sure. Just make sure to get some rest, old man,” Jason said and headed towards the bikes. Nightwing followed with a little wave.

Bruce stayed in the Cave until they were gone and then grabbed a communicator to slide into his ear, just in case.

[sttm99]

Bakugo understands that he spends a lot of money on you for just being his personal assistant. But he can't help it.

You honestly deserve it. You're smart, responsible, diligent. You're a hard worker with principles, and your work ethic is something he respects.

It didn't matter how many people were against him promoting you from secretary to PA so soon in your career. Your work was top notch, and you kept him organised.

Sure, you were pretty as well, a sight for sore eyes, really. But that wasn't his fault, was it? It wasn't your fault either.

It's not like you came into work every day with full glam, diamond earrings, or elaborate hairstyles.

It had pissed him off at first, when people demeaned you or underestimated your work because of your looks, especially when he knew you worked so hard so you wouldn't be considered some dumb corporate bimbo.

But now? Now he loved it. He loved when he had clients over, and they'd do a double take when he sent for you to take notes or deliver documents to his table.

He'd noticed the modesty with which you'd dressed when you first started working for him, how you tried to dim yourself with drab colours that obviously washed you out, or plain hairstyles.

Not like it stopped anybody from being able to tell how pretty you were.

But after, when you'd started garnering his attention and racking up more bonuses from your diligence, he began noticing you wearing nicer things.

Of course, you had to up your wardrobe once you were promoted to the role of Personal Assistant to one of the biggest heroes in Japan. But that wasn't it.

Bakugo loved seeing you walk in with a new shirt or new shoes or new earrings after he'd rewarded you a bonus or a pay increase. There was a sort of high he got, knowing that you took care of yourself with the money he gave you.

Oh, he spoilt you rotten.

Month end rewards became the norm for you. He just closed a hefty advertising deal? Best believe you were getting a cut out of that. He was given a bottle of champagne as a gift? You're drinking it with him in his office.

Sure, it may have seemed a bit inappropriate to some people; him locking the doors and closing the windows, and having you sit on his lap prettily whilst he poured it out into a flute for you.

Sure, it was inappropriate for him to have his hands up your skirt as you recounted the month end figures for him, but you were comfortable that way. He was, too. Oh, so comfortable with your hands inside his trousers and his teasing at the lining of your panties.

He was just taking care of his best employee.

And maybe he did spend a lot of money on you, but you had to keep up appearances. He needed you looking your best when you were next to him.

It wasn't his fault you were so beautiful that brands reached out to him to get you to model for then after seeing you appear in some pictures by his side.

It wasn't his fault that he couldn't get anyone else to come with him to the Hero Gala. Besides, you're meant to be with him during these things to take notes for him. So having you as his date was basically killing two birds with one stone.

"Your assistant's fucking sexy," Kaminari whispered into Bakugo's ear, both of them watching you go to order a drink for your boss.

Bakugo smirked to himself, his eyes raking over your body, clad in the tight fitting dress he'd bought for you to wear. He'd also bought the earrings you had on, and the shoes and the necklace. Sure, it cost him quite a lot, but he just couldn't help it when you looked so good.

"She's single, isn't she?"

Now, that had him snapping his head in Kaminari's direction. "Don't even fucking think about."

Kaminari whined, "But why? She's your assistant, not your sister or your girlfriend."

"She's my assistant," Bakugo seethed, standing up from his seat. "She's my employee, and I won't have you lowering her efficiency." He murmured as he made his way to where you were.

You smiled brightly as you turned around to see him, handing him the second glass of champagne in your hands. "You look like you'd rather be somewhere else." You laughed softly.

He grinned down at you before downing the drink quickly. "I would," he said before dropping his glass back on the bar. "Come on."

He spoilt you rotten, but he couldn't help it. You looked so beautiful in your tight dress and pretty hair and beautiful face.

Sure, being seated on the sink and having your legs spread before his lips in the bathroom at the Hero Gala may have been a tad inappropriate, but how could he stop himself?

You were quivering for him, thighs pressing down and shaking on either side of his head, and your fingers gripping harshly at his hair, pulling him even closer as you rutted your heat against his lips.

He let out a desperate groan, burying his face deeper into your cunt, eating you out shamelessly, hungrily.

"Fuuck..." He growled into you.

You'd been so shy the first time he had his way with you, refusing to touch him, grind on him, behaving so meek and cute.

Now look at you, so selfish and desperate, almost suffocating him as he feasted. He spoilt you rotten, sure, but you deserved every morsel of it.

"Katsuki..." You whined desperately, your back arching off the mirror, the hand not pulling at his hair tightly gripping the edge of the counter. "Katsuki, I'm so close... I'm so fucking close, baby-"

His hands dug into the flesh of your ass, pulling your harsher into him, your clit pressing against his nose as his tongue made a meal of you. He was always so desperate for it, digging the wet muscle so far into your pussy you saw stars.

And he was messy too, his saliva and your arousal staying your thighs, dripping from the marble counter unto the ground as he ate from you.

Anyone who came in after would probably be able to tell from the smell of the bathroom alone. The cum leaking unto the floor would only solidify it.

But the thought of someone finding out that your boss had his face buried deep in your pussy wasn't exactly what you were thinking about when you came for him, hard and rough, your hips shaking and raising off the counter as you rode out your high.

"We shouldn't be doing such during events, sir." You whispered to him as you both walked down the corridors back into the hall where the gala was being held.

He had his large palm over your ass, groping you just in the dark of the hallway, letting go just as you stepped into the crowded hall.

"Just be a good girl and wait for me to fuck you on the way home, hm?" He smirked at you, a small sheen still visible on his lips.

He never cleaned his mouth properly after eating you out during such events. It was inappropriate, sure, but he just couldn't help himself.

[buttercandy16]

Consequences to your Actions

PAIRING(s): Agatha Harkness x Reader, Rio Vidal x Reader

SUMMARY: A woman, betrayed by her wife, embarks on an affair with her boss, Agatha Harkness. Agatha's control leads to a divorce, but when the truth emerges, it’s too late—Agatha will do anything to keep her.

WARNING(s): Infidelity, Manipulation, Obsession, Implied Stalking, Betrayal, Deception, Abuse, Control, Gaslighting, Dub-Con, SMUT, and other Dark themes I forgot to mention.

A/N: The itching need to add Rio even if I'm only writing her as a minor character. Enjoy!

You should’ve known something was wrong the moment Rio started coming home late. At first, she had excuses—work meetings that ran over, urgent deadlines at her law firm, impromptu drinks with colleagues. You didn’t think much of it at first; your own work at Harkness Industries was demanding enough, and you weren’t about to begrudge her the same kind of schedule.

But as the weeks went by, the excuses started to feel hollow. She became distant, absent even when she was physically there. When she kissed you, it was fleeting. When she held you, it felt like her arms were a cage keeping something unspoken inside.

And then there was her phone.

It started buzzing at odd hours—late at night, early in the morning. She was quick to silence it, brushing off your questions with tight-lipped explanations. “It’s just work,” she’d say, or, “You know how chaotic things get this time of year.”

You wanted to believe her. God, you needed to believe her. But the unease festered.

Your life began unraveling on a quiet Tuesday evening. You hadn’t expected it—betrayal rarely came with a warning. As you walked into the apartment, exhausted from work, Rio stood in the kitchen, fiddling with her phone. At first, it seemed innocent, just another moment of routine. But when you greeted her, she flinched, quickly locking the device and shoving it into her pocket.

“What’s wrong?” you asked, your voice soft but tinged with curiosity.

“Nothing.” She gave you a nervous smile, brushing past to put the kettle on. “How was work?”

Her attempt to divert the conversation only made you more suspicious. It wasn’t like her to be evasive. Still, you brushed it off. Maybe you were overthinking things.

But the unease didn’t go away. In fact, it worsened as the days passed.

Late one night, unable to sleep, you saw Rio’s phone buzzing on the nightstand. The name flashing on the screen—"Unknown"—was strange enough. Stranger still was the message preview: “Can’t stop thinking about you. Last night…”

You froze, nausea twisting your stomach. Before you could react, Rio stirred, taking the phone in her hand and quickly silencing it.

“What are you doing?” she mumbled, clearly trying to sound nonchalant but failing miserably.

“Who is this?” you demanded.

“It’s not what it looks like,” she stammered, her voice shaky. “That’s—she’s just a friend. It’s not like that.”

“A friend?” You couldn’t stop the bitter laugh that escaped you. “Who texts their friends last night was amazing?”

She tried to defend herself, but the damage was done. You didn’t believe her. How could you? A message like that wasn’t innocent. Not when it left a dull ache pounding in your chest every time her phone buzzed. That pain, the uncertainty, stuck with you. It hung in the back of your mind at work, bled into your daily routines, and stole your ability to focus on anything else. You stopped going to bed with her. Stopped sharing your dreams or your fears because you weren’t sure if she deserved them anymore.

The seeds of doubt had taken root, and no amount of reassurance could pull them out.

At work, you found no reprieve. If anything, your performance began to suffer. Tasks that once came easily felt impossible to focus on. Meetings dragged on, your mind wandering to the phone calls and late nights that awaited you at home.

And that’s when Agatha Harkness began to notice you.

You’d always admired her from a distance—the way she commanded attention in every room she entered, the sharp confidence in her stride, the cool authority in her voice. As the CEO of Harkness Industries, she was untouchable, her presence as formidable as the empire she’d built.

The sound of heels clicking against the tiled floor broke your spiral of thoughts.

“[Your Last Name],” Agatha said, her smooth, smoky voice cutting through the hum of the nearly empty office. You jumped slightly, not expecting her presence this late. Looking up, you saw her—impeccably dressed, her charcoal-gray suit tailored to fit her tall, sharp frame. Her silver jewelry gleamed in the pale fluorescent lighting. Her presence dominated the room, her piercing blue eyes narrowed on you.

“Is everything alright?” she asked, though the amusement in her tone betrayed her true intentions. Agatha didn’t ask questions unless she already knew the answers.

“Yes, Ms. Harkness,” you replied stiffly, quickly closing your laptop. “Just catching up on some work.”

She leaned against your desk, clearly not buying it. “You’ve been… off lately,” she said, her voice softening ever so slightly, though her usual smirk stayed in place. “If something’s wrong, you can always come to me, you know.”

You hesitated. There was something unnervingly genuine in her tone, but that wasn’t what threw you off. What unsettled you was the realization that her gaze wasn’t just observing you—it was studying you, drinking in every little tell, every weakness.

“Thanks, but it’s personal,” you muttered, reaching for your bag.

She raised an eyebrow, giving you an indulgent smile. “Personal, huh? Let me guess—relationship trouble?”

You froze, your hands stiffening on the strap of your bag. She tilted her head, and for a moment, her smirk softened into something like sympathy. But even then, her eyes glinted with a hunger you didn’t fully understand.

The question caught you off guard, your heart skipping a beat. “What makes you say that?”

She shrugged, leaning against your desk with an air of casual confidence. “Call it intuition. But if there’s something you want to talk about…” She let the sentence trail off, her piercing blue eyes holding yours for a moment too long.

You shook your head, brushing her off with a polite smile. “Thanks, but I’m fine.”

But Agatha wasn’t one to let things go so easily.

It started innocently enough. After that conversation, Agatha began to invite you out. Sometimes it was coffee before a morning meeting, other times drinks after hours in her office. At first, you felt awkward accepting her invitations. She was your boss, after all. But you were desperate for a distraction from the storm at home—and she always had a way of drawing you in, her words dripping with charisma.

She began offering casual advice or anecdotes from her life. Before you knew it, she wasn’t just a boss—she was a confidante.

You never meant to open up to her about Rio. It happened one particularly draining night when you were both finishing late meetings. Agatha poured you a drink, her glass already half-empty as she leaned back in her leather office chair.

“Darling, what’s eating at you?” she asked casually, swirling the whiskey in her glass. “You look… burdened.”

It was her words—so precise and unnervingly accurate—that broke something in you. “It’s my wife,” you admitted, staring into your glass. “I think she’s cheating on me.”

Agatha didn’t react immediately. She studied you, her expression unreadable. “Cheating?” she repeated, her tone deliberate. “Or do you know it for a fact?”

You hesitated, recounting the texts, the lies, the evasive behavior. Agatha nodded slowly, her lips curving into a faint smirk. “Sounds like you already know the truth,” she said, her voice gentle but firm. “You’re just afraid to admit it.”

Her words hit you harder than you expected. And though you tried to shake it off, Agatha had a way of making the impossible seem logical. She fed into your doubts, her every comment precise and calculated. “She doesn’t deserve you. Not if she could betray you like that.”

Weeks passed, and Agatha grew bolder. She started showing up by your desk during breaks, brushing her hand across yours under the guise of sharing paperwork. She leaned a little too close when she whispered in your ear during meetings, and her compliments shifted from professional to deeply personal.

One night, she invited you to her penthouse.

The space was breathtaking: high ceilings, glittering chandeliers, and an unobstructed view of the city skyline. You felt out of place amidst the luxury, but Agatha made you feel welcome. She poured you wine, teasing you gently about your stiff posture.

“Relax, darling,” she said, her voice low. “This isn’t work. Consider it a treat for all your hard efforts.”

You tried to keep your guard up, but the wine and her proximity eroded your resolve. She was magnetic, her every gesture deliberate and sensual. When she leaned in to brush a strand of hair from your face, you didn’t pull back.

“You know,” Agatha whispered, her lips so close to yours that her breath brushed against your skin, while swirling a glass of Merlot in her other hand, “someone who cheats isn’t worth your time.”

The comment was blunt, almost cruel. You stiffened, staring into your own wineglass. “She says she didn’t cheat,” you said quietly, though even you didn’t sound convinced. “She’s been trying to prove herself, but…”

Agatha clicked her tongue, setting down her glass. Her eyes locking onto yours with an intensity that made your stomach twist. “But she broke your trust,” she said firmly. “That’s not something you can just fix. Trust isn’t some toy you can glue back together once it’s shattered.”

Her words stung because they echoed the feelings you’d been trying to ignore. And yet, there was a strange comfort in her conviction—in the way she made everything sound so clear-cut when your own thoughts were muddied.

Weeks turned into months, and Agatha grew bolder. She started calling you “darling” in private. Her hand lingered on your lower back when she guided you into her office. She’d brush your hair out of your face under the pretense of being “helpful,” though the look in her eyes told a different story.

You’d be lying if you said you didn’t notice. She was beautiful—undeniably so—with an effortless allure that seemed to cloak her every movement. And more than that, she understood you. Agatha didn’t sugarcoat things the way Rio did; she told you what you needed to hear, even if it wasn’t pretty.

The first time it happened, you blamed the wine.

You’d stayed late again in her penthouse. She’d convinced you to let her cook dinner—a surprisingly simple but delicious pasta dish that you ate together at her marble-topped kitchen island. The wine flowed freely, and by the time you were sitting beside her on the couch, your head was spinning.

“You deserve better, you know,” Agatha murmured, her voice low and intimate.

You turned to her, your heart pounding as you realized how close she’d leaned in. “Agatha—”

She cut you off with a kiss, her lips soft but insistent against yours. You froze, your mind racing with a thousand reasons why this was wrong. But when she cupped your face, her thumb brushing against your jaw, reason melted away.

The world seemed to pause in that moment, her lips soft but firm against yours, her hand cradling the back of your neck with possessive ease.

Her kiss deepened, her hand sliding into your hair as she guided you closer. It was overwhelming—the heat of her body against yours, the hunger in her touch, the way she seemed to pour all her intensity into that single act.

When you pulled back, breathless and dazed, she studied you with a small, satisfied smile. “Tell me to stop,” she whispered, her fingers still tangled in your hair.

You didn’t.

“You deserve to be worshipped,” she murmured, her voice husky. Guilt churned in your chest, but as she pulled you closer, kissing you again, it melted into a warmth you hadn’t felt in months.

The affair began in earnest after that night. Agatha was relentless, her touch searing and possessive every time you were alone together. She made you feel things you hadn’t felt in years—desire, adoration, worship.

You knew it was wrong. Every time you returned to Rio, guilt clawed at you, threatening to choke you. But you couldn’t stop. Agatha was a drug, and you were hopelessly addicted.

Her hands were everywhere, tracing the curves of your body as if memorizing every inch of you. Agatha consumed you in ways you hadn’t thought possible, her touch igniting a fire that left you breathless and desperate for more. Her hands were everywhere—pinning you against the cool walls of her penthouse with an intensity that bordered on possessive. Her lips left trails of fire on your skin, her teeth grazing your collarbone as she pulled moans from your throat. She made you feel wanted, consumed, and for the first time in months, alive.

She whispered things in your ear that made your heart race and your cheeks burn, things you’d never heard from Rio.

“You’re mine,” she murmured one night, her voice rough with need as she pinned you against the wall of her penthouse. “No one else gets to touch you like this. No one else deserves you.”

For weeks, you lived a double life.

But the guilt never went away.

“Agatha, I can’t keep doing this,” you said one night, pulling away from her lips with more effort than you thought you could muster. “I feel like I’m drowning in this lie.”

She tilted her head, her fingers brushing against your cheek. “Then come up for air,” she murmured, her voice dripping with reassurance. “You know what you need to do, darling.”

When you still hesitated, her tone sharpened ever so slightly. “She doesn’t love you—not really. If she did, she wouldn’t hurt you like this. She wouldn’t make you feel this… empty.”

Her words were surgical, cutting away your last shreds of resistance. Before you could stop yourself, you found solace in her arms again.

When you tried to end it a second time, Agatha didn’t take it lightly.

“You think you can just walk away?” she said, her voice eerily calm as she cornered you in her office after hours. “After everything?”

Her eyes burned into yours, her intensity both terrifying and magnetic. “I know you feel guilty, but what you have with me? It’s real. It’s worth the risk.”

She leaned in, her lips grazing your ear. “And you want it, don’t you?”

Your heart pounded as her words sank in. She was right. No matter how much you wanted to deny it, you couldn’t stay away.

Eventually, she began to push harder.

“You need to leave her,” Agatha said one night, lying beside you in bed. Her fingertips ghosted along your arm, her lips brushing against your shoulder as she spoke. “She doesn’t deserve you, and we both know it.”

“I don’t know if I can,” you admitted, your voice trembling.

She cupped your face, forcing you to meet her gaze. “Yes, you can. I’ll be here, darling. You don’t need her.”

Her words echoed in your head long after you left her apartment. The divorce papers sat on the kitchen table for weeks before you finally signed them. Rio cried when she found out.

“You’re making a mistake,” she pleaded, clutching your hands. “I didn’t cheat. I swear to you.”

But Agatha’s voice drowned hers out: “She’s lying. She’ll only hurt you again.”

After the divorce, your relationship with Agatha became official. The media marveled at her whirlwind romance with a “mystery employee,” and you found yourself thrust into the public eye —lavish dinners, expensive gifts, and a wedding straight out of a magazine spread. And yet, something felt… off.

Rio didn’t disappear. She called, sent emails, even showed up at your doorstep one day, begging you to listen.

“She’s manipulating you,” Rio said, her voice trembling with desperation. “She planned this. She’s dangerous, and you can’t see it because she’s in your head.”

You slammed the door in her face, brushing away the small seed of doubt her words planted. Agatha loved you—didn’t she? She couldn’t have orchestrated everything.

It was a rainy night when you found the folder. Agatha had left for a business meeting, and in a moment of idle curiosity, you opened the drawer of her desk. Photos of you—some from months ago, others dating back to years before you’d even started working for her. Copies of emails supposedly from Rio, doctored to look incriminating. 

Your stomach dropped as realization dawned.

She’d planned this. All of it. Agatha had orchestrated everything, from planting those damning messages to pulling you closer into her orbit.

“You’ve been busy,” Agatha’s voice startled you. She stood in the doorway of her home office, her eyes unreadable.

“How could you?” you demanded, clutching the folder. “You lied. You manipulated me. You destroyed my life—my marriage—all because you’re obsessed with me?”

Her expression didn’t falter. If anything, she looked amused. “I didn’t destroy your life,” she said calmly, stepping closer. “I saved you.”

“You ruined everything,” you spat, backing away.

She closed the distance between you in an instant, her hand grabbing your wrist in a vice grip. “I gave you everything,” she hissed, her voice dropping to a dangerous whisper. “Everything you have is because of me.”

Panic surged through you. “Agatha, you’re scaring me—”

She softened instantly, her hand loosening but not releasing you. “Oh, sweetheart,” she cooed, her voice dripping with mock tenderness. “You don’t need to be scared. I’d never hurt you.”

Her smile turned sharp. “But if you ever try to leave me, I can’t promise things won’t get… messy.”

Agatha’s grip on your wrist tightened, her nails digging into your skin just enough to make you wince. Her lips curled into a predatory smile, her eyes dark with a hunger that sent a shiver down your spine. “You think you can just walk away from me?” she purred, her voice low and dangerous. “After everything I’ve done for you? After everything I’ve given you?”

You tried to pull away, but she was stronger than she looked. Her other hand snaked around your waist, pulling you flush against her body. You could feel the heat of her through the thin fabric of her blouse, the hard press of her breasts against yours. “Agatha, let me go,” you pleaded, your voice trembling.

She laughed, a low, throaty sound that made your stomach twist. “Oh, darling, you don’t really want me to let you go, do you?” she whispered, her lips brushing against your ear. “You’ve always been mine. You just needed a little… persuasion.”

Her hand slid down your back, cupping your ass and squeezing hard. You gasped, your body betraying you as a jolt of heat shot through you. “Stop,” you whispered, but your voice lacked conviction.

Agatha’s lips found yours, her kiss fierce and demanding. She didn’t ask for permission; she took what she wanted, her tongue forcing its way into your mouth. You moaned despite yourself, your body responding to her touch even as your mind screamed at you to push her away.

She broke the kiss, her breath hot against your lips. “You’re mine,” she growled, her hands moving to the buttons of your blouse. “Every inch of you belongs to me.”

You tried to protest, but she silenced you with another kiss, her fingers deftly undoing the buttons and pushing the fabric off your shoulders. Her hands roamed over your bare skin, leaving trails of fire in their wake. “You’re so beautiful,” she murmured, her lips trailing down your neck. “I’ve wanted you for so long.”

Her hands found your breasts, her thumbs brushing over your nipples, making them harden instantly. You gasped, your body arching into her touch. “Agatha,” you moaned, your resolve crumbling.

She smirked, her hands moving to the waistband of your skirt. “That’s it, darling,” she purred, pushing the fabric down your legs. “Let me take care of you.”

You stepped out of your skirt, your body trembling with anticipation. Agatha’s eyes raked over you, her gaze hungry and possessive. “Perfect,” she whispered, her hands sliding down your thighs. “You’re perfect.”

She dropped to her knees, her hands spreading your legs apart. You gasped as her tongue flicked against your clit, the sensation sending a jolt of pleasure through you. “Agatha,” you moaned, your hands tangling in her hair.

She didn’t respond, her tongue working its magic as she devoured you. You could feel the heat building inside you, your body responding to her every touch. “Oh god,” you whimpered, your hips bucking against her mouth.

Agatha’s hands gripped your hips, holding you in place as she continued to pleasure you. You could feel yourself getting closer, the tension coiling tighter and tighter. “Come for me, darling,” she murmured, her voice muffled against your skin.

You cried out as the orgasm hit you, your body convulsing with pleasure. Agatha didn’t stop, her tongue lapping at you until you were trembling and weak. She stood up, a satisfied smirk on her lips. “That’s my girl,” she purred, pulling you into a kiss.

You could taste yourself on her lips, the taste of your own arousal on Agatha's lips sent a thrill through you, even as a small part of you recoiled at the intensity of the situation. But Agatha didn't give you time to overthink it. Her hands were on your body again, caressing and claiming every inch of skin as she backed you towards the bed.

You fell onto the plush comforter, Agatha's weight pinning you down a moment later. She straddled your hips, her eyes dark with lust as she looked down at you. "You're mine," she repeated, her voice rough with desire. "Say it."

Your heart pounded in your chest, fear and excitement warring within you. But as Agatha ground her hips against yours, you felt yourself giving in. "I'm yours," you breathed, your voice barely audible.

Agatha smiled, a wicked glint in her eye.

"Louder," she demanded, her hand wrapping around your throat. Not enough to cut off your air, but enough to make you feel owned, possessed.

"I'm yours," you repeated, louder this time.

"I'm yours, Agatha."

Her grip tightened for a brief moment before she released you, her hand trailing down your body to your breasts. She cupped them roughly, her thumbs brushing over your nipples. "Good girl," she purred, leaning down to take one into her mouth.

You arched into her touch, moaning as her tongue swirled around the sensitive bud. Her other hand moved between your legs, fingers teasing your still-sensitive clit. "You're so wet for me," she murmured against your skin. "So responsive."

She continued her ministrations, alternating between your breasts and your core. Your body was on fire, every touch sending sparks of pleasure through you. You were panting, writhing beneath her, desperate for more.

"Please," you whimpered, not even sure what you were begging for. Agatha seemed to understand, though. She withdrew her hand, leaving you bereft for a moment before she shifted her hips.

You felt the head of her strap on press against your entrance, and you gasped.

Agatha was large, larger than anyone you'd been with before. She paused, giving you a moment to adjust. "Breathe," she instructed, her voice calm and soothing despite the hunger in her eyes.

You did as she said, taking a deep breath as she slowly pushed inside you. The stretch was intense, bordering on painful, but it wasn't long before your body relaxed, accommodating her size. She filled you completely, her hips pressed flush against yours.

"Fuck," Agatha groaned, her head falling forward. "You feel incredible."

She gave you a moment to adjust before she began to move. Slowly at first, her hips rolling against yours in a steady rhythm. But as your moans filled the room, she grew bolder, her thrusts becoming harder, faster.

Your hands clawed at her back, your nails digging into her skin as she pounded into you. The pleasure was overwhelming, every stroke of her cock sending shockwaves through your body. You could feel another orgasm building, the tension coiling tighter and tighter in your core.

"Come for me," Agatha growled, her hips snapping against yours. "Come on my cock like the good little slut you are."

Her filthy words pushed you over the edge. You came with a scream, your body convulsing beneath hers. Agatha followed shortly after, watching you come undone was enough for her to find her own release.

She collapsed on top of you, both of you panting and sweat-slicked. For a moment, you lay there in silence, the only sound your ragged breaths filling the room.

But as the haze of pleasure began to dissipate, reality started to set in. Agatha had manipulated you, planned everything from the beginning. She had destroyed your marriage, ruined your life—all for her own twisted desires.

A lump formed in your throat, tears pricking at the corners of your eyes. Agatha must have sensed the change in you, because she pulled back, her gaze searching your face.

"Talk to me," she urged, her voice soft but insistent. "What's wrong?"

You tried to speak, but the words caught in your throat. You pushed at her chest, trying to make her release you. "Let me go," you whispered, your voice breaking.

Agatha's expression hardened. She didn't move, her body still pinning you to the bed. "No," she said simply, her tone leaving no room for argument. "You're mine now. I won't let you go."

Panic surged through you. You struggled against her, your heart pounding in your chest. "Please," you begged, your voice rising in pitch. "I can't do this. I can't be with you."

Agatha's grip tightened on your wrists, her face inches from yours. "You don't have a choice," she hissed, her eyes flashing with anger. "You're mine, and I always get what I want."

You felt the tears spill over, running down your cheeks and into your hair. You were trapped—trapped by Agatha's obsession, trapped by your own weakness. You had let yourself fall for her manipulations, for the thrill of being wanted so desperately.

Now, there was no escape.

Weeks turned into months, and you fell deeper into Agatha's grasp.

She isolated you from everyone—your friends, your family. If anyone tried to contact you, she intercepted their calls, their messages. She told them you were busy, that you needed space to focus on your new life with her.

And you let her.

Because what choice did you have? Agatha had all the power. She controlled every aspect of your life—where you went, what you did, who you saw. And if you tried to resist, she punished you.

At first, the punishments were subtle—a sharp look, a harsh word. But as time passed, they grew more severe. She would leave you locked in a room for hours, ignoring your pleas and sobs. She would confiscate your phone, your laptop—anything that could connect you to the outside world.

Once, when you tried to sneak out to meet Rio, Agatha found out. She dragged you back home by your hair, slamming you against the wall hard enough to leave bruises.

"You belong to me," she snarled, her face inches from yours. "I won't let you leave me."

That was the day you knew there was no escape. Not really. You were trapped in this gilded cage, a prisoner to Agatha's twisted desires.

And still, part of you craved her touch, her attention. Even as she hurt you, she made you feel alive. She made you believe that everything she did was out of love—that she needed you as much as you needed her.

It was a sick, twisted cycle—one that left you feeling lost, broken, and hopelessly addicted to the woman who had shattered your life.

You knew then that you were trapped. Rio had tried to warn you, but it was too late. Agatha had you in her web, and there was no escaping now.

The city lights glittered below as you stared out the window of her penthouse, feeling more like a prisoner than a partner. Somewhere deep down, you resolved to find a way out. But one look at Agatha’s cold, calculating smile told you that escape would come at a cost you weren’t sure you could pay.

_-_-_

Please don't forger to vote, reblog, and comment.

Happy New Year my Twisted Darlings!

[starfilmz]

close to you | rafe cameron

summary: you and rafe are together and no matter how long you two have been together, he still gets jealous. even if you’re admirers are 80% girls.

a/n: basically the jealousy trope but girls. bc i love girls :D

navigation

rafe cameron wasn’t the type to get jealous. at least, that’s what he told himself, day in and day out. but when it came to you—his girlfriend, the one person who had him wrapped around her finger—he couldn’t help but feel a pang of something every time a group of girls swarmed around you.

it was always the same. the way they’d giggle, whisper behind their hands, and act like they had some secret world he wasn’t a part of. he didn’t mind the guys; they were easy enough to brush off. a few sharp words and they’d back off, retreating into the background where they belonged. but the girls? it was different. they didn’t look at him like they were trying to size him up or steal him away. no, they acted like he wasn’t even there.

and that, to rafe, was a problem.

“you look good today, yn,” a girl would say as she sidled up beside you, eyes lingering just a little too long.

"thanks," you'd smile, not noticing the way rafe’s jaw clenched. you were always polite, always kind to everyone, but it did little to ease the tension in his chest.

he’d stand there, arms crossed, waiting for the moment to pass. but it never did.

“i can’t wait to see you at the next surf competition, yn! i’m sure you’ll crush it like always.” one of the girls would chirp, grinning like she had just made the most profound statement in the world.

rafe’s fingers dug into his palms as he glanced over at you, a possessive, yet proud look flashing across his face. he had to remind himself that it was because of you that all these girls were so…obsessed. you had that effect on people, on both guys and girls alike. it didn’t matter how many times he told himself he should be happy for you, that you deserved all this attention—there was still that sharp edge of irritation whenever you were in the spotlight.

“yeah, can’t wait to see you in action again,” another girl added, leaning in a little too close to you.

rafe resisted the urge to step in, though the thought of it brought an all-too-familiar feeling of frustration. you weren’t just his girlfriend—everyone knew that by now. yet somehow, you seemed to be this magnet for attention. people loved you. especially the girls.

but it wasn’t just the compliments or the giddy talk of your next competition that bothered him. it was the fact that these girls seemed to have no problem showing up at boneyard parties just to catch a glimpse of you.

“i heard yn's gonna be at the party tonight. i’m so excited!” one of them said to her friend, eyes practically sparkling. “i’ll be there early so i can get a good spot by the bonfire.”

rafe rolled his eyes, his hands curling into fists. you didn’t even notice them, didn’t care about any of this. you were just trying to enjoy yourself, trying to live your life, but it was like everyone wanted a piece of it. and most of all, they wanted a piece of you.

finally, rafe couldn’t hold it in any longer. as the girls continued to talk and laugh around you, he walked up, his presence undeniably commanding. he slid his arm around your waist, pulling you close, his face a study in controlled frustration.

“let’s go,” he muttered under his breath, just loud enough for you to hear. the girls hesitated, looking from him to you with a mix of confusion and intrigue.

“rafe, don’t,” you whispered softly, reaching up to touch his arm, trying to calm him down.

he gave you a tight smile, but there was something unspoken in his eyes. his possessiveness wasn’t something he liked, but when it came to you, it was almost uncontrollable.

“i’ll catch you guys later,” he said, his tone colder than usual, and with that, he guided you away from the crowd.

as soon as you were out of earshot, you let out a soft laugh. “you’re a little dramatic, you know that?”

“i don’t like them around you,” he admitted, his voice low but serious. “it’s not like i think you’ll do anything, yn. but you’re mine. and i hate how they act like you’re some prize to be won.”

you raised an eyebrow at him, a teasing smile on your lips. “and i’m supposed to be okay with you making a scene every time some girl talks to me?”

“you’re my girl,” rafe repeated, his eyes narrowing with that familiar intensity. “why would i want anyone else thinking they can just get close?”

you shook your head, a playful smile curving your lips. “you know i don’t belong to anyone, rafe. but i’m with you. only with you.”

he snorted, the tension in his shoulders easing a little. “that’s not the point. the point is—i’m not sharing, not now, not ever.”

“we’ll see about that,” you teased, pushing his shoulder lightly as you continued to walk away from the crowds.

rafe couldn’t help but laugh, even though he was still a little irritated. at least, for now, you were his—walking beside him, oblivious to the crowd and the chaos you left in your wake. he could live with that, for now.

“just don’t let them get too close next time,” he grumbled, eyes scanning the horizon as if daring anyone to make another move.

you rolled your eyes, but there was something in your expression that softened. “okay, rafe. i’ll try. but i can’t promise anything.”

“yeah, yeah,” he muttered, but the smile tugging at his lips said it all. for now, at least, he had you all to himself. and that, for him, was more than enough.

[wosohours]

not close enough - alexia putellas x reader

word count: 1854

“Alexia, I told you that I wouldn’t be able to hang out today because I needed to focus on my work,” you say in a serious tone toward the blonde standing in your doorway.

“I know that mi amor but I missed you so much. I feel like we haven’t been spending much time together because of our schedules,” Alexia gives you a cute pout as she raises two bags, “but look I brought you food and snacks and these pretty flowers you like.”

Biting back a smile you stand to the side signaling that she can come in. You knew that if you did not let her in now she would find her own way in, whether that be crawling through your window, again, or calling your mother who would convince you to let her in.

“Thank you. I appreciate it, baby,” you tell her as she speeds past you towards your kitchen.

“I just want to take care of my girl, bebé. I don’t like it when you work too much and stress yourself out,” she states while grabbing your waist to pull you into a tight hug.

“I only work so much so that I have more free time to spend with you, and also money to spoil you. You deserve to be catered to as well.”

Alexia can’t help but smile at your words as she kisses your neck. “While I really appreciate that amor, you know that just being in your company is more than enough for me.”

“I’m glad that you feel that way but I still have to work, these bills aren’t gonna pay themselves,” you tell her as you tickle the sides of her stomach, making her giggle and release you from her tight grip.

“Move in with me and I’ll pay your bills,” Alexia states. “We’ll talk about that later, but I’m not letting you pay my bills,” you roll your eyes as you open one of the food boxes she brought which was filled with some of your favorite pastries.

“We’ll see,” she shrugs, coming up behind you to take a bite of one of the pastries already in your hand.

____________________

“Thank you for breakfast, but I really need to get back to work. I have two more meetings today and then I’m all yours,” you tell your girlfriend as you pick up her plate to bring to the sink.

“I don’t want to leave you here alone,” she says, grabbing the dishes from your hand so she can wash them. “I’ll be fine, but if you really want to stay you can watch TV in my room or the living room,” you tell not really paying attention to her as you grab your computer and headphones.

“I’ll be in my office if you need anything just text me, okay?” you tell her while blowing her a kiss from the door of your office. As you are closing the door you catch her pretending to grab the kiss from the air and place it on her heart.

____________________

Though your relationship is not even a year old Alexia can’t help but be absolutely obsessed with you. She always wants to be around you, always thinking of you, and everything she sees and does can all be traced back to you.

This feeling was so new and different to Alexia that it scared her so much that she called her mother panicking. Of course, Eli calmed her down and gave her reassurance that this was a good feeling but told her if it bothered her that much then she should talk to you about it and take it slow.

A couple of days later when Alexia sat you down and told you how she felt she was relieved to know that you felt the same way and that you were more than happy to continue the relationship at whatever pace she needed.

It turned out that Alexia did not need to go as slow as she thought. Soon after your talk she was bringing you over to meet her mother and sister and hinting at you moving in with her, but you kind of talked her out of the latter, at least for now.

You two have been nothing but in love and happy and that is all Alexia could ask for.

____________________

After about an hour of laying around your living room and tidying up things here and there, Alexia gets bored and decides to go into your room. She flops on your bed on what she has claimed ‘her side’ and lays there in silence, basking in the atmosphere of your space.

The smell of your perfume she loves so much lingers in the air making her take deep breaths. As she turns over to your side she can smell the scent of the new shampoo you are trying out in your pillow making her smile.

She looks at your nightstand to see a framed picture of you two. The same one she has at home on her nightstand. As she reaches over to grab it she notices that you have one of her captain’s armbands. Alexia laughs at the thought of you stealing it from her bag. She holds it up to take a selfie and sends it to you.

To: Mi Reina 💕

“You are a little thief.”

*sent attachment*

Alexia gets up from the bed and into your walk-in closet. She can’t help but smile at the two different spots you have cleared out, one being a drawer for her clothes, and the other being her jerseys that you have bought or ones that she has given you.

From: Mi Reina 💕

“technically I didn’t steal it. i remember being told ‘take it off of me.’🙃”

After reading your message Alexia closed her eyes and let her head fall back with a deep sigh as she remembered that intense intimate night after the Champions League Final game.

Shaking her head out of thought she sends a reply back.

To: Mi Reina 💕

“Get back to work.”

From: Mi Reina 💕

“😭sorry baby. i was just getting the facts straight.”

Alexia rolls her eyes and smiles, putting her phone in her pocket before going back to look around your closet.

She reaches up to take your favorite hoodie off the hanger and brings it up to her nose, inhaling more of your perfume. Even though she is at your house, in your room, and you are on the other side of the wall she still can’t help but feel you aren’t close enough, so she strips off her FC Barcelona Nike jacket and tugs your hoodie over her head.

Ale lays down in your bed once again, this time on your side, and when she realizes that you aren’t going to be done with work any time soon she decides to just take a nap.

____________________

After both of your meetings, you get up from your desk to stretch and check on Alexia. You walk past the kitchen and living room when you notice she isn’t there and go straight towards your room.

When you open the door you see Alexia sleeping peacefully on her stomach with her face shoved into your pillow.

“Hey baby,” you whisper quietly, as you gently rub her back coaxing her out of her nap. Her eyes flutter open and she gives you a sleepy smile. “Are you done with work?” she whispers.

“No, I am done with my meeting though and I’m taking a break. Do you want to make some lunch?” you ask her.

Alexia nods her head as she sits up and stretches, letting out a small yawn.

“I see you stole my hoodie, who’s the thief now?” you tease, making her let out a little laugh.

You grab her hand and pull her out of the room towards the kitchen where you pull out ingredients to make sandwiches.

Alexia sits at the kitchen bar where she watches you with a loving gaze. When you are done making the sandwiches you pass Alexia her plate and a water bottle.

“Are you done with work?” she asks before taking a bite. “No, I still have emails to answer but I can probably get through those quickly,” you answer.

“Can you answer them on the couch and I sit with you?” she asks.

“I could, but you might be a little distracting,” you smirk at her as you take another bite.

“I am not distracting,” she pouts, crossing her arms which makes you laugh. “You can be sometimes, but it’s not always a bad thing. I like that you always want to be around me.”

“I just love you very much. Since we met, I have always wanted to be around you,” she tells you in an almost shy tone.

You walk around the bar to turn her chair so that you can stand in between her legs. Putting your hands on her cheeks you tell her, “You’re such a lover girl. I love you so much.” She leans in and pecks your lips multiple times.

“Go sit on the couch I am going to go grab my computer and I’ll meet you there,” you tell her pulling away.

____________________

“Alexia I cannot sit in your lap and do my work,” you tell her trying to pull away.

“And why not?” she asks.

“Because I said so,” you finally get free from her and sit on the other edge of the couch where you stretch your legs out and set your computer on your lap.

“Put a match on the TV or your ‘Love is Blind’ show,” you tease her knowing that she doesn't want to admit to liking that sort of show.

“I do not like ‘Love is Blind’ Don’t tell anyone that,’ she demands like she has been caught doing something wrong.

You can’t help but let out a loud laugh at the panicked expression on her face. “Oh really? I’ve caught you watching it multiple times, and did you forget we share a Netflix account? I can see everything that you watch.”

She lets out a puff of air and you can hear her mumble a ‘whatever.’

“You literally like to tell me all the red flags you see in these people. It’s okay baby, you know I’m not one to judge,” you say, raising your hands in a ‘surrender’ position.

Lifting your computer off your lap you motion for her to come lay between her legs. Alexia immediately replaces her pout with a big smile as she moves to lay her head on your stomach. “Is this close enough for you baby?” you ask her.

“It’s okay for now, I wish I could be in your skin,” she replies.

“Um. Okay,” you whisper to yourself a little stunned.

Still needing to work you place your computer on her back like a little table.

“Let me know if it gets too hot on your back,” you tell her as you kiss her head.

Alexia nods her head as she grabs the remote to turn on the TV…to ‘Love is Blind.’

[imnotkaizer]

rising lust. paigebueckersxreader.

S : after hooking up with your boss, you expected a significant raise, but she never delivered, feeling overly confident, you decided to confront her, hoping to secure the raise you thought you deserved.

W : asshole!paige. hook up. paige sees you as a whore, nothing else. fingering. degrading. humillation. strap on. basically prostitution.

"i told you! she dont want anyone meeting her right now!" her secretary tried her hardest blocking you but you are too stubborn, hands in her chest defending yourself.

"it wont take long, move." you gritted your teeth, having enough, you roughly shoved her running to the big door.

you scowled at the girl, slamming the door right infront of her face, then you looked over at the blonde girl who already tilted up her chin to look over at you.

you fixed your hair and looked down showing respect noticing her scary glare "im sorry maam im-" you stammered at your own words then she cut you off.

"what do you want?" she asked blunty, you expected a sweet talk from her because last night, thats what she was doing.

"yeah? good job baby..." she thrusted her fingers deeper groaning, completely turned on by your whimpering.

"well i just wanted to talk to you..." you played with your pinky finger, you heard the chair slide on the floor, she walked towards you her shadow covering you.

"talk." she muttured, you slowly looked up at her fluttering your eyelashes in hopes for a little empahty from her.

"ugh fuck! " you groaned gripping on her hair hard, legs wrapping around her hips, her lips trailing down rough kisses on your skin.

"well.. i was just wondering... because these past few days i have um.." your eyes scanned the whole room unable to find the right words, because honestly? did you really expect a huge raise just because you fucked her?

"oh yes yes! more!" you arched your back while she sucked on your tits moaning, she leaned up and shushed you down.

"i was just curious because, i have been good here but... my check seems to be the same..." your words were hesistant, the silence made you look up at her, she was already looking at you amused.

"you mean good in bed?" she asked, sure of her question, your face slowly dropped but you dared not to speak back.

"more huh? this fucking whore." she let put a breathy laugh curling her fingers, her other hand wrapping around your neck.

"im sorry... i just thought...i'll have a raise.." you looked down acting as if you have been just humilated, she clicked her tounge keeping her gaze at you.

"well i dont recall saying that." she muttured bluntly, your heart broke, dropping to your stomach, you took the courage to look up at her nodding.

"okay... im sorry.." you bit your bottom lip and she tilt her head gesturing to the door "im gonna go then..." you lowered your voice turning to the door, once your hand reaches the knob pulling the door open, she placed her hand to pushed them shut again, leaning closer to pin you.

"say it, say that your a fucking whore." she grunted slamming inside you relentless, "im whore..." you stuttered between words, heavy breaths, she harshly gripped your chin tightly furrowing her brows "say it right."

"thats it? your not gonna persuade me?" she asked leaning down face close to each other, you gave her a tight lipped smile "well.. you said to leave..." she scoffed smirking.

"im.. a fucking whore!" you yelped when she inserted another fingers, you placed both your palm on her cheek and pulled her in for a deep kiss.

"we both know damn well that wont happen, i mean look at you, coming here with that short skirt." you looked down at your attire, can you blame yourself tho?

"oh my gosh fuck.." you completely breathless know, but paige is still at it, your only break was her looking for her strap at her closet before she could lift both your legs again placing them at her shoulders.

"i know you expected something else" her fingers brushed the strand of your hair movint them aside, bringing your chin to look up at her "am i right?" she asked voice low the two of you keeping eye contact.

she positioned herself at your entrance, careful to push her cock inside your wet cunt "taking it so well..fuck.." she hitched at the way her cock is dissapearing inside you.

"y..yes..." you looked down embarassed cheeks flushing, she lifted your chin again and scanned your features "doing this on purpose?" she asked voice low, you simply nodded "cause its fucking working." she grunted focusing on your lips.

"Ahh!" you gripped on her silk sheets, arching your back, she placed both her hands on your legs thrusting deeper.

it didnt take long for her to give in and slam her lips against you, the kiss turning sloppy, breathy but passionate.

she placed her palm on your stomach pushing down "feel that?" she asked breathy and you quickly nodded.

she unbuttoned your blazer then bought her lips to your jaw down to your chest leaving bruises everywhere on your skin.

She groaned throwing her head back as she slammed into you relentless, you a moaning mess.

she pulled away, both of you out of breath, she quickly swing the door open and gently pushed you out, you gasped and quickly buttoned up, you didnt expect her to do that.

She leaned down resting her elbow on the matress, thrusting insanely deeper, your basically folded at this position now

Some few stares are shared at you, some are judgemental, shocked, amused, you didnt care, right now your fucking pissed at her "she didnt need to fucking push me, that bitch" you muttured under your breath making your way to your seat.

"I..im gonna cum fuck!" you moaned loudly and she increased her pace kissing your forehead "yeah go on, come f'me."

you plopped yourself on your chair, teeth gritted completely pissed, hands on the side of your head, to your suprise, your phone dinged, looking over at it.

" PAIGE B. has sent you 18,000k"

MORE WORKS .ᐟ

🔖 — @addl0vee @mrsarnold @melpthatsme @bellaprintz25 @janaelalfysblunt @ellehoops @belsoulss @apbueckers @uwupaige @janaelalfysloml @paige05bby @azzisbueckers @paigeluvvr @giavonnii @jupitermoonbaby @shootingstarrrrr @dalilahissilly @luldejamleer @d7dream @gabbyygoo @bravemode @latenighttalkinqwp @avvwritesstufff @prettygirl-gabi @yailtsv @bebitts @heartsforari @usuallyshadowybasement @authentic-girl03 @private-but-not-a-secret

[paigeluvvr]

happy birthday

paring: paige b x reader

warning: sumttt dom paige, fingering, strap on sex, squirting

summary: you let paige fuck you good and hard on her birthday…

you and paige are on y’all’s way to the bar, where she decided to go for her birthday. “i know i told you like 6 times already but, happy birthday baby.” paige laughs at that “thank you baby i love you so much.” “i love you too!”

yall make it to the bar and paige gets out to open your door. yall walk to the door hand intertwined with the other. yall walk in to see azzi, caroline, kk, and ice. yall walk you to the and greet one another. “ happy birthday p.” azzi says and so does caroline. “p, come do some birthday shots.” kk says. (kk is not drinking underage!) “baby i am going to go with kk, ok.” “ok baby have fun.” now it is just you and azzi and caroline. ice decided to you with kk and paige. “y/n you should come to our first game.” azzi says and caroline agrees. “i would love to but i can get tickets, sorry.”

yall have been at the bar for two hours now and you are sure paige is very tipsy. “imma go look for p.” you say “ok” caroline answers for them both. you soon find her by the bar ordering like her third dirty shirley. “hey, p you having fun.” “sooo much fun!’’ she slurred her words together. “i’m glad you are so just tell me when your ready to leave.” “otay”

after another two hours you said that yall left. but it was your girlfriend’s birthday she deserved a night out. “baby can you help me take a shower.” you laugh at how tipsy and whiny she sounded. “yeah baby just one second.”

“ok can you wash me please?” she asked “since you ask nicely, i can.” you grab the lavender body wash a gift you gave her, and lathered it up on her towel. soon as you start washing her she relaxes under your touch.

“ok baby i am done bathing you and me so we can get out now.” you help her out, because if she did it herself she would have fell. “baby come on, do you think you can dress your self?” you asked “yeah” you are already dressed and is just setting up the bed for sleep and just putting the extra pillows on the floor. “baby do you brush your teeth like i told you to?” “ma, you never told me to do that.” she pouted and went to go brush her teeth.

she finally makes it to bed and you notice the strap in her hand. “your planning on fucking me with that again?” “yeah i don’t see the problem. you loved it the first time.” she said all confused “i not saying it in a bad way i was just asking.” you tell her “oh sorry” she say and you remember all the air in your lungs was being suck out.

paige starts to move on you. she then takes your shirt off “so beautiful your all mine yeah?” “yes paige i am all your nobody except you.” you moan as she sucks on your nipple.

she takes the rest of your clothes off so your bear in front of her. “i want to give you another gift.” you say “what is it?” you pretend to think to tease her. “you can fuck me however you want.” her eyes lit up at this and she ask “are you sure?” “yep, happy birthday!” after you say that she wasted no time to shove her fingers in your dripping cunt. “oh fuck!” you yell and she immediately speeds up her fingers.

“you like that huh?” she says “yes, you do you love mommy’s fingers in the tight pussy.” she then starts to lapping at your clit.”oh go-d.” your voice is shaking. you are literally on the brink of crying because is feel so good. she starts to slow her finger down “don’t stop, keep going.” she laughs at how needy you are being. “baby i thought you wanted me to fuck you with my strap?” “i do, but i want you to let me finish off your fingers.” you pouted. “ohh baby why didn’t you just say so.” she asked “i just told you.” you says as you rolled your eyes. at this she grabs your chin to make you look at her “don’t be roll your eyes, and might want to watch that attitude.” she tell you and she is right you just told her that she could fuck you how she wanted to. “yes ma’ma” at that response she shoves her finger back in you dripping hole again.

you are on your second orgsam because of her fingers. “paige g-gonna cu-m!” you tell her “come on baby cum for me.” your orgsam feels different this time. you screamed so loud you knew the neighborhood knew what yall were doing. then you noticed you just squirted all over paige. “aww baby look at that.” she tells you. you cover your face in embarrassment put she quickly pulls them away. “no reason to be embarrassed baby i know i am that good.” you then sit up to suck her boob. she then pushes you back on the bed and says “no i am fucking you tonight remember?” you nod your head.

“god paige y-your so big.” you says as she has been fucking you with the strap for ten minutes. “you like it right.” you nod your head but she doesn’t take that. “talk or i will stop.” she says so you say “yes i love it.” you moaned out as she speed up her pace. you feel the same band in your stomach start to form. “gonna cum again.” but soon as you say that she said “hold it.” you look confused “yeah i said hold it love.” after she says that she flips you over so you on all fours.

she then fucks you long and hard your fear you might stop breathing. “ how is that.” she ask you as she fucks you from behind. “s-so good.” you surprised yourself with be able to talk after she already made you cum 7 times. “you gonna cum for mommy?” “yeah” with that your cumming and you feel you are going to pass out.

“you okay baby?” paige asks all nicely. when she was just wrecking you. “yeah better than ok” yall are cuddled up in the bed ready to sleep. “happy birthday again, i love you.” you tell paige. “thank you baby, i love you more!”

i was supposed to have this out at 10:00 but i took a long break…and this is my first long fic so…

taglist: @thaatdigitaldiary @makethemhoesmad @sierrale8ne @p0rtaled @paigestrap @bbydoll18xx @bueckersstrap @pbnbucks @pb524830 @ohbueckers @cosmopretty

[dumb-ster-fire]

Azriel x fem!Reader - Between Shadow and Sunlight - Part 1

Azriel x fem!reader , Helion x fem!reader

Summary: Y/N has always danced around the tension with Azriel—but how much longer can he deny it? When Helion pulls her into his arms at a Day Court ball, Azriel tells himself it doesn’t matter. But as he watches her laugh, watches Helion’s hands linger, jealousy coils tight. Shadows stir, and for the first time, Y/N wonders if Azriel will finally stop running from what’s always been there between them.

Part 2

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Helion watches Y/N with open fascination, a slow smirk curving his lips as they move together across the dance floor. He had expected her to be intriguing—after all, anyone who kept company with the Night Court’s infamous inner circle had to be remarkable in some way—but this… This was beyond what he had imagined.

She moves like she was born for this, like she’s always known the rhythm of power and seduction, her steps fluid, deliberate, exuding an effortless confidence that most could only dream of. There is fire beneath her cool exterior, a carefully restrained power, and Helion—lover of knowledge, of untold secrets—wants to unravel her, to see what lies beneath that wicked smirk and knowing gaze.

His thumb brushes the back of her hand as he twirls her, and he notices the way her eyes glint—sharp, amused, like she knows exactly what game he’s playing and has already decided whether or not to indulge him. Smart girl.

“The Inner Circle has been keeping secrets, I see,” he murmurs, his deep voice rich with amusement. “No one told me the Night Court had such a hidden gem.”

Y/N tilts her head, an almost lazy smile tugging at her lips. “Maybe they didn’t think you were worthy of knowing.”

Helion chuckles, utterly delighted. Oh, she is sharp. His eyes gleam with intrigue. “Then I should count myself lucky to be standing here now. And luckier still that you haven’t yet decided to put me in my place.”

Y/N hums as they turn across the floor, her silvery gown catching the light like liquid moonlight. “Oh, I’m still deciding.”

Helion throws his head back and laughs, the sound deep and unabashed. She is a storm wrapped in silk, a force as deadly as it is mesmerizing, and Helion—who has danced with queens and whispered to goddesses—feels something rare stir in his chest. Not possession, not conquest, but pure, unfiltered appreciation.

He had met many powerful women, had adored and worshiped them as they deserved, but there was something different about this one. Not just power—no, power was easy to find. It was the way she carried it. The way she wielded it with no need to prove herself, no need to demand attention, because she simply was.

Helion’s golden eyes flicker toward the Night Court’s table, where shadows curl and shift around a familiar figure watching them intently.

Ah.

A knowing smile ghosts across Helion’s lips. So, the shadowsinger watches. He had wondered what kind of claim, if any, Azriel had on this female. The unreadable spymaster, who gave away nothing, is not unreadable now.

Fascinating.

Helion leans in slightly, his breath warm against YN’s ear as he murmurs, “Tell me, starlight—do the shadows know how close you dance with the sun?”

Y/N laughs softly, not missing the way he angles his body, deliberate in his teasing. But she is no blushing courtier, no wilting flower wilting under golden heat. She meets his gaze with that same knowing smirk. “The shadows are always watching,” she muses, voice silken. “But the sun should be careful… Linger too close, and it might find itself eclipsed.”

Helion grins, utterly enthralled. Oh, this one is dangerous. And gods, if he doesn’t love it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

As the dance nears its end, Helion twirls Y/N one last time before pulling her back to him with a practiced ease, their movements seamless, almost as if they had done this a hundred times before. The music slows, and for a brief moment, the world seems to quiet around them, leaving only the golden warmth of the Day Court High Lord and the cool, sharp brilliance of the High Fae before him.

Helion studies her with open admiration, his thumb brushing lightly over the back of her hand before he finally releases her. “A rare delight, indeed,” he murmurs, offering her a dazzling smile. “Perhaps, next time, you’ll allow me more than just one dance.”

Y/N arches a brow, tilting her head as if considering his words. Then, with an infuriatingly slow smirk, she leans in just enough that he catches the intoxicating scent of dark cherries and lilac. “Perhaps,” she echoes, voice like velvet and shadow. “If you can keep up.”

Helion laughs, the sound deep and rich, utterly delighted. “Oh, starlight, I do love a challenge.”

With a final glance—one that is equal parts intrigue and mischief—Y/N steps back, turning on her heel with effortless grace, leaving Helion watching after her with something almost akin to reverence.

He is still smirking as he makes his way back to his table, golden eyes flickering toward the Night Court’s usual corner of the ballroom. Cassian and Mor are murmuring amongst themselves, Feyre and Rhys are watching Y/N with quiet amusement, and Azriel—ah, Azriel—is still seated, his fingers lightly gripping the stem of his untouched wine glass.

Helion catches the spymaster’s stare, unreadable and dark, shadows curling protectively at his shoulders. A lesser male might have been intimidated by such an expression. But Helion is anything but lesser.

So he smirks. Raises his glass ever so slightly in a silent toast.

And Azriel… does nothing. He doesn’t react, doesn’t shift, doesn’t move a single muscle. But the shadows? They do. They curl tighter, darker, whispering things Helion cannot hear.

Oh, Helion muses as he takes a slow sip of wine. This is going to be very interesting.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The moment Y/N steps away from Helion, the Inner Circle erupts into hushed murmurs.

Cassian is the first to break the silence, his arms crossed over his chest as he grins. “Well, well, well. Y/N really knows how to make an entrance and an impression.”

Mor snorts, taking a sip of her wine. “Did you see his face? I don’t think Helion has been that enchanted in centuries.”

Feyre hums in agreement, her lips twitching. “It’s not often someone manages to leave him wanting more.”

Rhysand, ever the picture of cool amusement, merely watches Y/N from across the ballroom, swirling his wine lazily in his glass. “Helion’s intrigued,” he muses, his violet eyes gleaming with something knowing. “Not that I blame him. Our Y/N is… something else.”

Nesta, seated beside Cassian, raises an elegant brow. “You say that like it’s a surprise.”

Amren chuckles, sharp and knowing. “It isn’t. But it is entertaining.”

Elain, ever observant, glances at Azriel, who has been uncharacteristically quiet. His posture remains relaxed, but she doesn’t miss the way his grip tightens ever so slightly around the stem of his glass, his shadows coiling restlessly at his shoulders.

Mor notices too, her golden-brown eyes flicking to him. “Az, you alright there?”

Azriel doesn’t look away from Y/N. Doesn’t even blink. “Fine.”

Cassian smirks, nudging his friend’s arm. “You sure? You look like you want to shadow-walk over there and drag her away.”

Azriel finally tears his gaze away from Y/N and pins Cassian with a flat look. “If I wanted to do that, I would have already.”

Nesta rolls her eyes. “So dramatic.”

Mor, never one to let an opportunity for mischief slip by, leans in toward Azriel with a wicked grin. “You could just ask her for the next dance, you know.”

Azriel doesn’t respond, merely tilts his glass to his lips.

Rhys chuckles, clearly enjoying the entire situation far too much. “Ah, but then where’s the fun in that? I think our dear spymaster enjoys the slow burn.”

Y/N, unaware of the attention still on her, finally makes her way toward them, a victorious little smirk still playing on her lips. “Did you all have fun watching?”

Cassian lets out a bark of laughter. “You were practically putting on a show.”

Y/N shrugs, completely unbothered. “Helion’s entertaining.” Then, casually, “And a good dancer.”

Azriel, who had just taken another sip of wine, sets his glass down with a little more force than necessary.

Mor barely holds back a laugh. “Oh, this is fun.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Y/N settles into an empty chair, crossing one leg over the other as she picks up a glass of wine from the table. She takes a slow sip, her smirk deepening as she feels the weight of everyone’s eyes on her—especially one pair in particular.

Cassian, ever the instigator, leans forward on his elbows. “So, how was it?”

Y/N swirls the wine in her glass, pretending to consider. “Mmm… smooth. Confident.” She grins. “He knows how to lead.”

Azriel doesn’t react outwardly, but Mor—who has been watching him like a hawk—catches the slightest twitch in his jaw.

Rhys lifts a brow, his amusement only growing. “And yet, here you are, sitting with us instead of twirling around the ballroom with Helion.”

Y/N shrugs one shoulder, her gaze flicking briefly—deliberately—to Azriel. “I prefer a more… challenging dance partner.”

Azriel, to his credit, meets her stare with an unreadable expression. His shadows, however, betray him—coiling subtly at his back, shifting like restless smoke.

Mor presses a hand to her mouth to hide her grin.

Nesta smirks into her drink. “I’d say you have your pick of dance partners, Y/N.”

Cassian nudges Azriel—not hard, just enough to be obnoxious. “Yeah, maybe someone here should take the hint.”

Azriel finally speaks, his voice smooth, unwavering. “Are you asking, Y/N?”

A challenge.

Y/N tilts her head, pretending to think. “I don’t know. Are you offering?”

The tension between them tightens like a drawn bowstring. A flicker of something dark and unreadable flashes through Azriel’s hazel eyes.

Rhys chuckles, shaking his head. “Careful, shadowsinger. She plays dangerous games.”

Azriel doesn’t look away from Y/N. “So do I.”

A slow, wicked smile spreads across Y/N’s lips. “Good.”

Cassian whistles low, leaning back in his chair. “Well, this just got interesting.”

Mor just grins. “Oh, it’s been interesting for a while.”

[punkshort]

Roommates | 10. just us two

Pairing: (ex)pornstar!joel x f!reader

Chapter Summary: You and Joel settle into your new lives together.

Chapter Warnings: language, alcohol and food consumption, massive quantities of fluff, smut (18+ MDNI), unprotected piv sex (reader is on BC), oral sex (f!receiving), spanking, pussy pronouns, multiple orgasms, some sex tape action 👀

WC: 7.1K

A/N: Okay, we've reached the end of the road for these two! I can't believe I'm wrapping up another fic, jfc. Thank you so much for sticking around and expressing so much love and excitement for this story. It means so much to me that I'm able to share this part of myself with people who are just as happy as me about these characters. This chapter wasn't really necessary, most loose ends are already tied up but they deserved to be happy, so this entire chapter is just love and fluff and smut. Shout out to @txtattoostark for listening to me yap and for the watermelon moonshine inspo. Enjoy, and thanks again ❤️

Series Masterlist

One Month Later

Joel smiled to himself as he watched you in the kitchen with his mom from his spot in the living room. The old radio next to the sink, dusty and missing two buttons, was softly playing jazz music while you both worked on dinner. It wasn't the trailer park he grew up in. The small ranch house his mother bought with the life insurance money she received after his father passed away wasn't too bad. He begged her for years to let him give her some money, to buy her a place closer to town, to pay for new appliances at the very least, but she always refused. Instead, he found himself visiting her whenever he had a few days off so he could fix the sink or the washer or cut the grass.

He didn't mind. It was a good excuse to come visit. He enjoyed catching up and spending time with her.

But now, with you? Watching the way you seamlessly moved around the kitchen, laughing with his mom and stirring things in pots while swaying your hips in those tight denim shorts... yeah, this was different. This was much better.

"Hey, brother," Tommy said from behind, startling him out of his rosy daydream. Joel stood with a smile to engulf Tommy in a hug once he kicked off his shoes.

"You look tan," he remarked, then reached for Maria and gave her a kiss on the cheek.

"New Orleans was sunny," Tommy said, holding some bottle of clear alcohol in his hand. "Brought back some moonshine. Watermelon. Mama's favorite."

"Oh, Tommy! Maria! You're back!" their mother cried from the kitchen before wiping her hands on a towel and hurrying over to the front door, her worn out blue slippers catching on the rug as she walked. "How was your honeymoon?" she asked after she squeezed them both within an inch of their lives.

"Amazing," Maria said happily. "We had such a great time. Have you ever been?"

Mrs. Miller shook her head. "Maybe James will take me one day."

"Is he here?" Tommy asked, handing his mother the liquor.

"No, he's visiting his daughter out of town this weekend. Come on, I have some snacks out."

The four of them entered the kitchen and you swiveled around with a big smile. Setting down the wooden spoon you were holding, you threw your arms around Maria's neck, then Tommy's.

"How was it?" you asked them, your eyes sparkling with excitement.

You and Maria fell into an animated conversation about some haunted ghost tour when Tommy cleared his throat and propped his hands on his hips.

The pair of you stopped talking to look at him questioningly, then realization dawned on you. You smirked and shook your head before digging into your back pocket to pull out a folded bill and slapped it into his palm.

"You were right, Tommy."

He laughed and tucked the money into his shirt pocket.

"Thought you mighta forgot."

Joel frowned and looked between the two of you curiously, but Maria seemed to know exactly what was going on because she was already chuckling to herself.

You glanced over at Joel, who was eating a cracker with cheese, and your expression softened. "Best hundred bucks I ever lost."

"The hell you givin' him a hundred bucks for?" Joel asked incredulously, but you just slipped your arms around his waist and rested your chin against his chest with a smile.

"I lost a bet," you told him.

He practically melted into a puddle under your touch. He couldn't get enough. After a year of denying yourselves or sneaking around, it felt so good to be open. He refused to ever take it for granted, so he tilted your face up and pressed a tender kiss against your lips. He felt your mouth twitch into a smile when Tommy groaned in fake disgust.

"Thought we were the newlyweds here."

You broke the kiss to shoot him a look over your shoulder.

"Try and keep up."

Joel tossed his head back and laughed, then released his hold on you so you could return to the stove. Maria washed her hands and picked up a knife to chop vegetables and Tommy reached for the bottle of moonshine their mother left on the counter.

"Let's crack into this," he said, and Joel nodded. He weaved through the kitchen to open up the cupboard where the glasses were kept, grabbing five tumblers. You were swaying again with the music and you gently knocked into him with your hips, just enough to tease him, and he sucked in a sharp breath.

"Watch yourself, baby," he warned with a wink before placing the glasses down next to Tommy so he could pour.

Joel couldn't remember a time he had seen his mother look so happy. The five of them sat around her dining room table, a table made for four but you all squeezed in, knees knocking together underneath, arms brushing against one another, and it felt perfect.

He leaned back in his chair after finishing his food, one arm draped along the back of your chair, his other hand loosely holding his glass of moonshine and he smiled. He tried to pay attention to Maria and his brother tell stories about their honeymoon, but he had a hard time looking away from you. Eventually, he stopped trying. His gaze slid down your face, admiring your smile and the way your eyes crinkled when you laughed.

He was so fucking lucky.

Tearing his eyes away to bring his glass to his lips, he caught his mother watching him across the table with a knowing smile. She winked at him before giving Tommy her attention once again and Joel felt his face warm.

Once dinner was over, he and Tommy stood to clear everyone's plates. A habit that was formed early on in their lives. Whoever didn't cook had to clean up.

After the dishes were done and the leftovers were packed away, the two brothers refilled their glasses and wandered out to the back porch where their mother, you and Maria had ended up.

Maria and Mrs. Miller were strolling around the yard, their mother pointing out plants and flowers and telling Maria some long winded story about each. The deer hate this one. Cindy up the street cut a chunk of this out of her garden for me, can you believe how big it is now? I got this from Home Depot on clearance half dead, look how good it's doing.

"Better go save her," Tommy murmured before jogging down the steps. Joel plopped himself next to you on the porch with a sigh and clinked your glasses together.

"Lucky you already got the flower tour earlier," he told you.

You bit your lip and chuckled. "She really loves her garden."

The two of you sat in silence for a few minutes. The sun was setting and you could hear the crickets coming to life all around you. Birds swooped anxiously overhead, rushing back to their nests for the night. A cool breeze floated through the air, rustling your hair and making you shiver.

"C'mere," he murmured, patting his thigh. You smirked and shook your head but put your glass down and stood to perch on his leg, wrapping your arms around his neck lovingly and giving him a chaste kiss.

He hummed in approval and licked his lips. "Taste good."

"Like watermelon?" you asked, fingers twisting around the long strands of hair on the back of his head.

He nodded. "And you."

You kissed him once again, lingering a bit longer that time so you could fully appreciate the softness of his lips between yours and breathing in deep the scent of soap still stuck to his skin.

Then voices began to grow louder behind you, indicating your alone time was coming to an end.

Tommy stumbled on the stairs leading up the porch and you turned around on Joel's lap. He wrapped his arms around your waist, keeping you right where you were, before teasing his brother.

"Better take it easy. You been out for two weeks at work, you ain't callin' in tomorrow 'cause you're hungover."

Tommy rolled his eyes and took your abandoned chair.

"Yes, boss."

"How are things at the bar, Joel?" his mother asked, sitting down with a sigh. "I'm so glad you found some work I can actually tell my girlfriends about without lying."

You stifled a giggle and glanced at Maria, who was also trying to hold back her laughter.

"Good, Mama," Joel said, ignoring her other comment. His chin came to rest over your shoulder as he spoke. "The remodel is done. Opened up the room so there's a place to dance. Easier for customers to move around. Everyone's been real excited to see the changes. Been busy."

"He's been working so hard, too," you added, twisting to your side so your fingers could lovingly rake through the hair on the back of his neck. "Some days I don't even see him."

Mrs. Miller gave you a sympathetic look but you could tell she was proud of her oldest son for venturing outside his comfort zone and applying himself.

"So you're all moved in, I take it?" Maria asked, and you nodded.

"Didn't really have much. Most of my things were still packed from when I moved out."

"She's been sprucin' up the place, too. You oughta see it," Joel said fondly. "Got pretty lookin' art on the walls, fluffy pillows and blankets for the couch. Actually got some food in the damn fridge, too."

Tommy laughed heartily. "That mean you'll stop swipin' fries and shit from the kitchen?"

"Hey, I'm payin' for those fries. I'll take 'em if I want 'em," he said with a scowl, then looked up at you, his eyes softening. "But it's nice to have dinner waitin' for me at home," he added, bringing a smile to your face.

"You were always terrible at cooking," you teased, tugging on his earlobe playfully between your fingers.

The night dragged on, the stars lit up the quiet night sky and Mrs. Miller eventually began to yawn, indicating it was time to head home.

Home.

It felt so right to think of it that way. It was where you belonged. But you knew it wasn't simply the house. You could have been living in a shack and you would still be just as happy because it was with him.

Joel gripped your thigh while he drove his truck with one hand on the steering wheel. The windows were down, the wind whipped at your face, tangling your hair when you turned your head to gaze over at him.

"See anythin' you like?" he teased when he spotted you admiring him from the corner of his eye.

You giggled and felt his fingers squeeze your bare leg.

"You know what I want?"

The corner of his mouth tugged upwards and his eyes darkened with excitement. "What's that, sweetheart?"

You seductively ran your palm up his arm, sighing at the way his muscles twitched under your fingertips.

"I would really, really love... a vegetable garden."

You laughed at the way his face fell in mock disappointment.

"I'll build you a vegetable garden," he finally said as he turned onto your street.

"Really?" you asked with a huge smile. He nodded and shot you a wink.

"'Course. Whatever you want, baby."

Joel stayed true to his word. About a week later you woke up on Saturday morning to the distant sound of a hammer beating a piece of wood in the backyard. Stretching a lazy arm out to your side, you pouted when you found Joel was missing.

Then the pieces slowly clicked together.

It was a rare weekend off for him. You had been talking about it for the past few days. He was looking forward to Tommy returning to work so he wouldn't be so short staffed and he could relax with you for two whole days. You didn't come up with any plans except laying in bed, ordering takeout and watching movies, content to just spend time together. But Joel sweetly surprised you by waking up early, something he absolutely detested, so he could build you the vegetable garden you asked for.

You lightly padded down the steps still clad in your tank top and shorts to grab a mug from the cupboard. The coffee pot sizzled with heat when you plucked it from the burner, half the liquid already gone. Once you fixed it the way you liked, you walked out onto the back deck and leaned over the railing, your mug cupped in both hands, to fully appreciate the sight before you.

Joel had his back to you as he crouched over a simple rectangular wooden frame on the ground. You could see the sweat collecting on the back of his neck and it made your mouth water. As your eyes traveled lower, you noticed the dark patches in his shirt forming at his collar and between his shoulder blades, making your thighs clench together while he worked, completely oblivious to you watching him, listening to him grunt and sigh when he lifted a new piece of wood.

You swallowed thickly before taking a sip of your coffee, your eyes never leaving his form while he stood to stretch his back. He lifted his hat from his head and wiped his brow with the back of his forearm and you sunk your teeth into your lower lip. Something was so fucking hot about him getting all sweaty and worked up, but on that particular day? When he was making you something, sacrificing his rare down time just for you? It lit a fire inside you that couldn't be tamed.

Before he noticed, you scooted back inside to fill up a glass of ice water. With your hand hovering over the door handle, you got an idea that sent a jolt of arousal right through you. Without giving yourself a chance to overthink it, you pulled down your shorts and underwear, kicking your panties off to land on the couch, and shimmied your shorts back on.

Your pulse was fucking racing with excitement when you stepped outside once again, but this time you made sure to make a little noise so Joel would hear you. When the door clicked shut, he turned around and grinned before setting down his tools and stepping into the shade.

"Thank you, darlin'," he murmured when you handed him the water.

"You're welcome," you replied, your hands clasping behind your back as you practically vibrated in place with nervous energy. His eyes flicked down your body curiously right when he was finishing up his drink.

"Sleep okay?" he asked, sensing something was off while he set the glass down on the deck.

"Mhmm," you said, a nervous grin spreading across your face. "Missed you, though."

He chuckled and wiped some sweat away from his face with the bottom of his shirt. Your mouth went dry and your eyes instantly locked onto his tanned stomach and the dark smattering of curls that led below his waistband. The sleep shorts you were wearing were thin. If they were a lighter color, you could probably see right through them if you really looked. As it turned out, they were also terrible at absorbing moisture because they were sticking uncomfortably to your inner thighs while you waited for him to notice.

"Huh?" you said when you realized he was speaking.

He shook his head and dropped his shirt back down. "I said, I'm makin' you the damn garden you wanted."

You inched forward and took his hand in yours. "Well, do you think it can wait? Because I need to show you something inside that needs your help."

Somehow, he was still not picking up what you were implying.

"Baby, I'm on a roll. I just need another hour, maybe two-"

You tugged the hand you were holding between your legs and his eyes widened when he felt the wetness waiting for him there.

"Sorry. Got tired of being subtle," you told him with a playful smirk. He whipped his head around, checking to see if any of the neighbors were out tending to their lawns or enjoying their morning coffee on their patios while his fingers hooked around the soaked material.

You saw in his face the exact moment he realized you were bare underneath your shorts. It was like his brain was buffering, desperately trying to calculate how long he allowed you to stand there practically begging to be fucked while he rambled on about a goddamn garden. The surprise in his features slowly faded into the hazy, lust filled gaze you were so familiar with, and you smiled triumphantly.

"Get your ass inside right fuckin' now before I do somethin' that'll get us both thrown in jail," he growled, something primal shifting in his face while his body flooded with arousal, his need for you dripping heavier in his veins with each steady beat of his heart.

You squeaked and covered your ass when he swat at you from behind, then you hurried past him, back into the house.

Looking back on it, to think you would have made it upstairs to your bedroom was comical. His hands grabbed your hips halfway up the carpeted steps, pulling you down as you laughed giddily and pretended to try to fight off his attack, clawing fruitlessly at the stairs while he smiled into your lower back where his mouth was alternating kisses and bites across your skin.

"You wanted attention, you got it," he mumbled before yanking your shorts down and sinking his teeth into the flesh of your ass. Not enough to really hurt, but enough to make you yelp in surprise and leave a few linear indents in your skin.

Joel usually took his time with you. He preferred it that way. He liked to watch your face as he tormented you between your legs. He liked to see what new sounds he could pull from your throat when he changed an angle.

But not that day.

No, that day he yanked your shorts all the way off, tossing them over his shoulder and down the steps before grabbing your hips with his hands, all rough and sweaty from working outside.

You braced yourself for the inevitable stretch, the welcome yet slightly painful intrusion that you yearned for, but what happened next shocked you.

Your eyes widened and you gasped when you felt his mouth descend on your pussy from behind, his tongue immediately setting an intense pace, which was a change from the way he usually ate you. But speed and passion weren't the only variation. He never, ever went down on you from behind before.

"I- J-Joel, what are... oh," you moaned, eyes fluttering closed as he lapped eagerly at your core. Instinctively, you spread your hips and sunk down further onto his mouth. Your cheek was rubbing harshly against the carpet and your lips were parted, allowing a small trail of drool to trickle down your chin. If you had any awareness left, you might have cared, but the pleasure he was building between your legs left your brain completely numb.

"Oh, fuck yes, Joel - keep going, just like that," you groaned, reaching behind you blindly to grab a fistful of his hair. "Fuck you and that fucking mouth," you gasped when his tongue flatted against your clit. He chuckled against your core but didn't stop. His hand slid up the back of your thigh and gave your cheek a firm jiggle before smacking his palm down across your ass. You jolted forward, your forehead bumping up against the next step, and cried out for more so he did it again, but on the other side.

"You like that?" he panted, pulling away from you for just a moment to catch his breath. You arched your back, giving him a generous view of the mess he left between your legs and he was afraid for the first time ever that he might come completely untouched. He inhaled sharply and pinched the bridge of his nose when he saw your cunt pulse, calling to him like a goddamn siren at sea. "Fuck, so beautiful," he growled before closing his eyes and picking up right where he left off.

His thumbs spread your lips so his tongue could tease your entrance, scooping up your arousal and rutting his hips against the stairs, eating you like he was about to go off to war.

"I'm... oh, shit, Joel!" you exclaimed, pulling at his hair roughly so he wouldn't dare try to stop when you were so close to your climax. And he could sense it. He was good at that. He knew what you needed sometimes before you even knew. So once again, he brought his palm down sharply across your ass, a little harder that time but not too much. Just enough to leave a few seconds of sting, electrifying your nerve endings and pulling you over the edge.

Two tears rolled down your cheeks when you came. The little bit of pain from his hand and the carpet digging into your cheek and knees mixed with your pleasure in such a way that it left you breathless.

Finally, once he felt your legs begin to tremble and whimpers fell from your lips, he pulled away with a deep gasp. His eyes were pinned to the way your pussy looked; all drenched with a combination of his spit and your release, and he cursed under his breath.

"She looks so fuckin' good, baby, wish you could see what I see," he murmured, mesmerized as he continued to stare without any shame. You hardly had any of your senses. Your breath was ragged and your throat was dry but still, you tilted your chin and whispered, "show me."

A wide smile stretched across his face and his eyes lit up.

"Yeah? You'd let me take a picture of this pretty pussy?" he asked, but he was already digging in his back pocket for his phone. You nodded, eyes still closed.

When both his hands left your waist, you arched your back a bit more and spread your legs, presenting yourself to him. You heard a deep groan rumble from his chest and he whispered, "fuckin' natural, baby," before you heard the shutter on his phone. One, two, three times at least you heard the familiar little click, click, then he leaned over your slumped body and slid his phone in front of your face.

"See? Look at you. Look at what I get to see," he murmured into your ear. Your eyes opened and widened as you stared at your wrecked pussy on the screen.

"Oh, wow," you breathed, not expecting at all to find it sexy, but you did. You fucking did. "Look at what you did to me," you said, craning your neck over your shoulder. His eyes flickered with heat and his mouth crashed down onto yours.

"Just wait til I split you open on my cock," he said, his voice rumbling against your back. "Have you all stuffed full with my cum. Now that's a pretty sight."

You groaned and shakily pushed yourself up.

"I'm begging you, please, Joel... do not fuck me on these stairs. My knees are killing me."

He laughed and helped you stand, legs wobbling just a little.

"Nah. I got an idea and we can't do it here."

You laid underneath the covers in bed, your lower half still bare and your tank top still on while you nervously chewed on your lower lip, watching Joel at the foot of the bed tinker with a camcorder he had buried somewhere in his closet that he swore up and down he never used with anyone else.

Never wanted to before, he had said when you eyed it suspiciously after he explained he swiped it from a set when it was used as a prop in one of his films years ago.

"Battery's dead but I'll just leave it plugged in," he said, then he flipped out the little screen tucked into the side of the device and swiveled it around so it was facing out. He set it on his end table and adjusted it until he was satisfied with the angle, then looked over his shoulder with a grin.

"You sure?" he clarified again. Your eyes flickered from him to the camera, then back again.

"Yeah," you squeaked, your voice very clearly betraying you. His gaze softened and he leaned across the bed to press a chaste kiss against your forehead.

"We don't gotta do this," he assured you. "I don't wanna make you uncomfortable."

"No," you replied, shaking your head. "I want to, I'm just nervous."

He scoffed and readjusted himself so he was lying next to you, blocking the idle camera.

"Nothin' to be nervous 'bout. It's just for me 'n you," he murmured before cupping your face and pressing his lips tenderly against yours. When his tongue swiped over your bottom lip, you sighed and looped your arms around his neck, melting into his embrace and deepening the kiss. His hand slid down from your cheek to squeeze your breast, groaning a little when he pinched your nipple through the fabric of your tank top.

His lips dragged down to your jaw, his teeth grazing your throat until he found a spot he liked and latched on while pushing the sheets from your body. The anticipation bubbled up while his hand continued to travel lower, your legs instinctively falling open for him. You finally relaxed when he successfully distracted you with his fingers through your folds and gasped as he slid two inside you with ease.

"Oh, yeah, you're ready for me," he moaned into your neck, his erection bordering on painful. He exhaled shakily when one of your hands wrapped around his length and began to gently stroke him, your palm so soft and warm that he almost forgot about the camera.

"C'mon, baby, sit up f'me," he said, pulling his hand from between your legs and leaning back so he could kick his jeans off. You scrambled to sit, your breaths coming in shallow pants as you watched him tug his shirt over his head. When he reached for the hem of your tank top, he paused and turned to tap the record button on the camcorder. Instantly, your limbs went rigid and your hands fell to your lap, covering yourself, but when he turned back to you he pinched your chin in his fingers, pulling your nervous gaze from the camera lens.

"Eyes on me," he told you, his voice low and deep, sending a shiver down your spine.

You nodded and raised your arms so he could peel off your tank top. He tossed it onto the floor and sat back on his heels to admire the way your tits sat exposed to him, his eyes darkening when your nipples hardened with arousal. He lunged forward and took one in his mouth, his hot, wet tongue lavishing your pebbled skin before switching to the other one. You tipped your head back and moaned, mouth open as you stared up blankly at the ceiling, your fingers rising to get tangled in his hair.

"You're so beautiful," he whispered, planting little kisses all over your chest and circling his arms around your ribs, tugging you closer. You wrapped your legs around his waist, trembling when his cock pressed between your bodies, his erection sliding through your wet heat and suddenly you couldn't breathe.

"I-I need you," you whimpered, weakly lifting your hips into his lap.

"I know, baby, I know," he hummed. One hand dropped to cup your ass so he could reposition his legs underneath you, then flexed his hips so the tip of his cock lined up with your opening. "Want me to fuck you just like this? Sittin' in my lap?"

You nodded, your eyelids heavy with desire as you tightened your grip around his neck. The second he pressed into you, you gasped. He watched with adoration as your eyebrows pinched together in concentration, breathing deep and slow as you relaxed and slowly took him.

"Joel," you whispered, jaw slack. "Joel, I love you."

He moaned and pulled your hips flush with his, forcing you to take the last few inches all at once. "I love you, too, baby. Christ, you're incredible. Fuckin' look at you."

Look at you. His words made you remember the camera. Your eyes flickered over to the little rectangular screen, the outline of your bodies perfectly centered, and you swallowed tightly.

"Pretend like it's the mirror," he whispered in your ear as he began to gently rock in and out, "just like the mirror at the hotel, okay?"

You nodded and sighed, your shoulders loosening and your muscles relaxing as you began to roll your hips in rhythm with his. He tightened his grip around your middle, his body engulfing you in warmth. You rested your head on his shoulder as he continued to fuck you nice and slow, stretching you out around him, reaching depths that had you reeling.

This was it. There was nothing else outside those four walls. You had everything you ever wanted right there. The way he kissed you, touched you, made love to you always left you feeling so safe. Deep down, you always knew he was the missing piece in your life, the mysterious thing you kept searching for in others and were always left disappointed. Because nobody else ever loved you and cared for you the way he did.

"I'm so lucky to have you," you told him, your tongue dragging up his neck, collecting the dried sweat with a moan. You began to bounce in his lap a little faster and he immediately matched your pace with thrusts of his own.

"I'm the one who's lucky," he said through clenched teeth. He exhaled heavily through his nose and tucked his chin to his chest so he could watch himself disappear inside your cunt. "So soft. Softest pussy. So fuckin' warm and wet, you feel so good. Goddamnit, every fuckin' time..."

You smiled to yourself as you listened to him ramble. "Maybe we're both lucky."

He chuckled and you gasped when his cock brushed up against that one spot that made you see stars. You feverishly grabbed his face with both hands and bit desperately at his lower lip, pulling it between your teeth and making him groan.

Your body was loose and pliant now, so with more confidence you quickened the roll of your hips, relishing in the way his cock felt dragging in and out of you, how your clit rubbed against the coarse hair at his base, in the noises you managed to pull from his throat each time your skin slapped together.

"Yeah, that's it, baby. Show me what you like. Oh, good girl," he groaned, hands sliding up your back to hold you as you began to lose yourself. He could see it in the look in your eyes and the way your fingers dug into his shoulders.

It was the most beautiful fucking thing.

Your body moved perfectly in tandem with his, your sharp gasps and his deep groans filling the room, the camera long forgotten by now.

"Oh, god, I'm close," you whimpered as you felt the heat that had been building begin to quickly creep up and spread through your stomach. "Oh, fuck. Oh, god... Joel, don't stop, please..." you begged, your breath coming in ragged gasps as your vision began to blur.

"I ain't stoppin'. C'mon, give it to me, lemme feel you," he growled. He snapped steadily into you now, each thrust punctuated by a grunt while his eyes locked on yours, watching with pride as you crumbled and fell apart, your walls squeezing him so beautifully as you came that it nearly pulled him right over the edge with you.

It happened fast. One second you were in his lap, your body tingling with the aftershocks of your orgasm and the next he had pulled out of you and flipped you onto your hands and knees. Only when you felt his thick cock slide back inside did you fully realize you had switched positions. And shit, taking him from that particular angle always was so much more intense, but combined with the fact that your new view included the camera in the corner of your eye made everything so much more powerful.

You could fucking see him now and you couldn't look away, completely entranced with the way his face looked as he slammed into you. His mouth hung open as he looked down at you with what could only be described as complete and utter desire. You could feel his hand running up the length of your spine but you could also see the look of worship in his eye, the way his face twisted in pleasure when he watched your ass ripple from the force of his hips, and you felt a heavy wave suddenly crash over you once again.

"Oh, fuck!" Joel groaned loudly as he watched another orgasm shoot through you. His hands grabbed at your waist to try to keep you still, but you were trembling everywhere and you couldn't hold yourself up any longer.

You fell onto your elbows, the side of your face pressing into the bed while he held up your hips, fucking into you harder now that he could tell you were spent. "I'm gonna come, baby, I'm -" he cut himself off with a desperate whine, the buildup from the past hour or so becoming too much and causing his release to intensify.

Your bodies finally stilled and he pumped you full of his spend, his groans getting caught in his throat as he pulsed inside you. He watched in a daze when his cum started to leak out even though he was still inside, and without thinking, he snatched the camera from the bedside table so he could get a close up.

"Fuckin' hell, baby," he whispered hoarsely, chest heaving and hands shaking as he held the camera at his chest, pointing it down to where you were connected. "So glad you're back on the pill. Fuckin' beautiful, all full of me like this. Shit," he muttered, swiping a finger to collect some of his release to rub it over your clit. With a whine, your body jolted forward and he chuckled before dropping his hand, knowing you were too overstimulated.

"Joel," you whispered tiredly. Your eyelids were heavy and your thighs were shaking from the effort of holding yourself up.

"I know, baby, just one more thing and then I'll clean you up," he promised. He took a deep breath and steadied the camera before slipping out of you.

He made a pained noise in the back of his throat when he watched through the lens the way your body leaked of him, your pussy all swollen and stretched out, completely fucked, messy and used.

"Jesus," he croaked, wishing he could keep filming but your body sagged forward and he stopped the recording before tossing the camera onto the other side of the bed so he could check on you.

"You alright?"

You nodded, eyes closed, lips bitten raw, hair a complete mess but you still wore a satisfied smile.

"Tired. I think I'm gonna just..." you yawned and stretched out your shaky limbs. "Just gonna close my eyes for a sec."

He grinned and stood up to go to the bathroom, plucking a couple clean washcloths from the linen closet and wetting them both under the faucet so he could clean himself up with one and take the other back to you.

"Did you eat?" he asked softly as he gently and carefully dragged the washcloth through your thighs. You shook your head, eyes still closed. "I'm gonna go make you somethin'. Gotta eat, honey," he whispered before kissing the top of your head and covering you with the sheet. But by the time he came back upstairs with a bagel and cream cheese, you were fast asleep.

So you're getting married, then?

Well, he hasn't really asked me, not in so many words.

Four, you mean?

Huh?

Well, that's how many it takes: will you marry me?

Your eyes fluttered open when you heard two familiar voices reciting an even more familiar dialogue from the television, the volume turned down so low, you could hear the neighbor's dog barking from four houses down.

Joel shifted in bed next to you as quietly as he could, unaware you had awoken. You peered up at him, hair all messy, chest still bare, and you smiled when you caught him stifling a laugh at Audrey Hepburn.

"Hey," you said, voice coming out rougher than you expected, so you cleared your throat. He immediately muted the television and turned toward you, grinning as his eyes raked up and down your sleep-addled face.

"Hey, yourself," he said softly. He pushed the hair off your face, letting his thumb linger on your cheek while he continued to examine you closely. "Feelin' okay?"

You nodded and yawned, stretching your sore legs out underneath the blankets. "You fucked me into a coma."

He laughed heartily and rubbed his palm over his chest, embarrassment flushing his bronzed skin.

"But I guess that's what I get for shacking up with a pornstar," you added with a giggle. He tossed his head back and laughed even louder at that and you couldn't resist, his happiness too infectious. You inched forward and nuzzled into his side, his arm dropping to wrap around your shoulders.

When the laughter died down, he gazed lovingly at you and, tucking a stray piece of hair behind your ear, reminded you, "ex-pornstar, but I suppose old habits die hard, huh?"

"Mm, maybe, but that's okay," you said, tracing light, invisible patterns on his stomach. "It's nothing I can't handle."

He cocked an eyebrow at you and smirked. "Careful, or I might have'ta hold you to that."

"Bring it on, superstar," you whispered before leaning up and pressing a gentle, soft kiss against his mouth. You licked your lips and hummed before looking up at him through your lashes. "Cream cheese?"

"I made you a bagel, but you fell asleep," he admitted, "but figured we could relax the rest of the day. Order in, watch movies... just like we said we would."

"I don't remember saying we would do all that naked," you teased.

"Thought that was implied, baby," he said with a frown. "You shacked up with a pornstar, what'd you expect?"

What did you expect? Did you ever imagine your life would turn out the way it did? Sitting in bed with a sheet wrapped around you, eating Chinese food and watching a Turner Classic Movies marathon with the man of your dreams? You always wished for it; before you met, after you became friends, while you were carrying on an illicit affair, and even when you weren't on speaking terms, you always, always wished for it. But did you ever really think it would come true?

You couldn't really remember, and at that point, it didn't matter. Because you didn't care how you got there, just as long as you were together, you were happy.

You did exactly what he said you would do. You stayed in bed until the sun began to set, wasting the whole day away curled into his side watching old movies and pointing out your favorite parts, exactly the way you used to.

It was around nine when Joel suggested going out for ice cream. Let's get out, stretch our legs and walk along the river, he had said after vowing to finish your vegetable garden the next day.

And on your way out, your hands fused together even while he struggled to lock the door one handed, you looked at the chairs on his porch and smiled to yourself.

"What's that for?" he asked, tapping your cheek lovingly while you walked side by side to his truck.

"Nothing, it's stupid," you told him with a shrug.

"Ain't nothin' you got to say is stupid to me."

You sighed when he let your hand go so you could round the truck and hop into the passenger seat. After you clicked your seatbelt into place, he put the keys in the ignition but waited to turn it on. Instead, he looked at you expectantly with his eyebrows raised.

"Fine," you mumbled, "I'm gonna sound fucking crazy, but... fine."

"Oh, well now this I gotta hear," he said.

You gave him a look before turning in your seat to face him. "The chairs on your porch." He nodded.

"So far, not crazy."

You rolled your eyes. "Remember when I came by to drop off the shirts for the Jack and Jill party?"

He nodded again and you could feel the self-consciousness begin to creep up.

"We weren't on great terms back then. I had just found out you bought a house. I felt like I hardly even knew you anymore. And I was so damn nervous, I didn't want to fuck things up even more than I already had, but when I saw you had two..." You paused when you saw the flicker of understanding cross his face. "I thought you maybe found someone else. I know. It's crazy, like I said."

Joel smiled and reached his hand across the seat to lace together with yours, his thumb brushing over your knuckles.

"Got the second one for you."

Your eyes snapped up to his in surprise.

"What?" you breathed.

He gave you a shrug and tilted his head bashfully. "I was just waitin' for you."

Tears welled in your eyes as you fumbled with the seatbelt, unbuckling yourself so you could stretch your body over to his seat and pull him into a deep kiss.

"I thought I lost you," you whispered against his mouth, and he chuckled.

"You didn't. I was all yours that very first night, sweetheart."

You didn't even try to deny it. He was right. It seemed so obvious now. Why didn't you see it back then? But before you began to mentally chastise yourself for being so bullheaded, you stopped. You couldn't change the past, something you've been learning to accept in therapy for months now, but what you could do was focus on your future. And while you sat next to Joel as he drove towards your favorite ice cream place in town, windows down and stars twinkling in the sky, you smiled because your future together looked pretty damn bright.