#jamie can still love keeley and keeley can still love jamie i think that’s great!!

[littleoceanbabe]

listen i know keeley was the one that rlly needed the hug in that moment but i am so glad jamie got one too that bbygirl needs constant love and affection

[its-time-to-write]

how about a Jamie x reader fic when they go away to Amsterdam they sit together on bus and they wake up cuddling and then there’s an issue w hotel booking and there’s a one bed trope and they end up waking up cuddled together and then they admit feelings and reader goes to game with a tartt jersey on <3

I’ve been thinking about this forever, and I’m terribly sorry it took so long!! I do enjoy being an adult, but I’m at a point in life where I don’t have much free time and if I do, I use it to sleep😂

I really miss the days when Ted Lasso was still airing and the x reader tags had new content every day. I feel like that one meme of Thanos when he’s like “Fine. I’ll do it myself.” Shoutout to all y’all who are still here and reading my stuff! Love you!!

smile at me

It’s straight-up fucked. It really, really is. But also maybe it’s good, as Keeley pointed out, because not having a boyfriend anymore means you can focus on yourself?

Or something. 

Of course he had to break up with you right before leaving for Amsterdam. Hell, he broke up with you because you were leaving for Amsterdam. 

“I don’t want you going to another country with a bunch of other guys,” he had said. “It’s them or me.”

“It’s literally my job,” you told him. 

Apparently, that didn’t matter. 

But what-fucking-ever, you’re at Keeley’s waiting for a car to take you to the airport, and she’s promised to make sure you don’t think about your stupid ex even once. 

It’s times like these you wish Ted were still here with a spot-on pun and some dad-type advice. All you ever get from Beard is a weird anecdote and a vaguely threatening look. 

Keeley chatters on for the entirety of the ride to the airport, through customs, and all the way to the lounge. 

“You’re gonna get loads of great content for the socials, babe. Candids, action shots, behind-the-scenes. Friendlies are fucking amazing!”

Last time Richmond were in Amsterdam, they had lost horribly. They’re hoping to make up for it this time around. 

The plane is full of Greyhounds, both footballers and coaches alike, with Rebecca at the very front. Keeley plops done in the seat next to her as Dani waves at you from the middle. 

“I saved you a seat!” he calls. You smile as Sam takes your bag to put it in the overhead. “Thanks, Dani. You excited?”

Dani grins. “I think this time I am ready to see a whole field of tulips!”

You laugh as the lads roll their eyes. Jamie leans across the aisle toward you and says, “Oi, what’s the twat doing while you’re away?” 

You press your lips into a thin line. “Not a clue.”

He raises an eyebrow and says, “You break up with him?”

“He broke up with me.”

Jamie twists his face into a scoff. “And you wonder why I call him the fucking twat. Prick. Bet it was so he could finally fuck his coworker.”

You shrug. Jamie’s never liked your boyfriend. It’s not like you were together long, only a few months. And sure, he was a little bit of a twat, but sue you. You had a special place in your heart for pricks with a heart of gold, only he didn’t even have a heart at all. 

“You should date someone better,” Jamie continues. 

You glare at him and retort, “Oh yeah, because it’s just that easy. You got some one in mind?”

Jamie gives you his most angelic look and says, “What about me?” which makes half the plane dissolve into laughter, yourself included. 

“Cheers, Jamie,” you say as you wipe your eyes. “I needed that.”

A strange look crosses his face, but it’s quickly replaced by his usual cocky expression. “Anytime, love,” he replies as you turn to start a conversation with Dani. 

As much as you’d like that, Jamie would never date you. His joke stings a little but you brush it off. Maybe you’ll find another twat in Amsterdam to distract yourself from the fact that you’re half in love with Jamie Tartt.

—

“I’m sorry, we don’t have a booking under you name,” the hotel concierge says.

You tap your nails to your wrist. “Are you positive? I’m with AFC Richmond, they should’ve had one.”

The concierge taps on his computer for a moment before shaking his head. “No, I’m afraid we don’t have anything. And all of our rooms are booked this weekend. Might I recommend the hotel down the road?”

Damn it. There’s no way this is happening. Everyone else has gotten to their rooms without a hitch and here you are, alone in the lobby as you pull out your phone to call Keeley. There’s no way this is fucking happening. 

“Everything alright?” asks a voice behind you, and you jump. 

“They don’t have a room for me, and they’re fully booked,” you explain. 

Jamie looks at the concierge, who shrugs apologetically, then back to you. He asks, “Why don’t you share with me?” and you frown. 

“I thought you were rooming with Declan,” you say. 

Jamie lifts a shoulder. “Yeah, but he switched with Richard because O’Brien fucking snores and he don’t give a shit.”

You say, “So you’re with Richard, then,” and he shakes his head. 

“Nah, Richard’s with Jan.”

“I thought Dani was with Jan,” you say. These fucking footballers. What’s the point in having set rooms if they’re just going to switch it all up.

“Dani is with Jan,” Jamie says patiently, as if this all the most obvious thing in the world. “But Dani’s a cuddler, so he’s probably going to fucking end up with, I don’t know, Isaac or someone. Which means I get a room all to meself.”

“Right,” you say slowly. “Alright, I can do that. As long as you don’t mind.”

Jamie winks. “Sharing a room with a pretty girl for four days? Ain’t a problem, love.”

You laugh and follow him to the elevator.

—

It feels a bit like playing with fire, agreeing to room with Jamie. Especially since you’re freshly single and definitely open to a rebound. But there will be two beds and a lot of space and anyway, you’ll be busy with the match and social media, respectively. 

Except as soon as you walk through the door, you realize there’s a tiny little hitch.

“There’s one bed,” you blurt out, so surprised you’re unable to filter your words. Jamie blushes a little bit as he says, “Yeah, um, Cockburn and I hate sleeping alone, so we asked for one. He grew up sharing a bed with his brothers and I just fucking hate being alone. I can sleep on the couch if you want.”

“No,” you say firmly, “you need good rest. It’s not a problem.”

It’s not a problem. 

Or at least it wouldn’t have been if Isaac had been a shittier captain. 

But as it is he’s great, so he’s got the whole team going out to dinner at a pre-determined location complete with a dress code of no t-shirts and apparently you count as part of the team, so you have to go too. You’re in your massive bathroom trying to curl your disgusting travel hair when Jamie walks in wearing one of those white hotel bathrobes.

He asks, “You mind if I’m in here?” so you shake your head, struck temporarily mute by his bare clavicle. Fucking hell, you feel like a repressed Victorian woman. 

Jamie says, “Mint,” and goes about his alarmingly detailed skincare routine. You’re pretty sure you’re done with your hair so you crane your neck in an attempt to check the back. 

“Missed a spot,” Jamie says. “Want me to get it for you?”

You shoot him a dubious look but hand him the curler. He runs a hand through your hair, picking up the offending strand and it’s all you can do not to shiver. 

“Mum taught me,” he explains and you nod ever so slightly, not wanting him to accidentally burn your neck. Jamie says, “All good,” and runs his whole hand through your hair this time, making the curls bounce. 

You choke out, “Thanks,” and hurriedly put away your things, desperate to leave before Jamie can pick up on the fact that you can barely handle being in the same room as him, and that you have great concerns about what the night will bring. 

—

“You look fucking hot,” is the first thing Rebecca says when you meet her in the lobby. Keeley looks mildly offended that Rebecca took the words out of her mouth, but she just laughs and taps your arm. 

“Gonna break a few hearts tonight, yeah?” she grins.

You’re not sure about that, especially since dinner turns out to be a very domestic affair. It’s loud, sure, but it’s definitely toned down since it’s a pre-match celebration instead of a post-match one. You’re with Sam, Keeley, and Roy with Jamie far, far away. You push all thoughts of him from your brain only for memories of your ex to surface. You frown. 

“The fuck’s wrong with you?” Roy says and for a moment, you think he’s talking to you. But he’s actually talking to Jamie who has moved from his place across the restaurant to right behind your chair. 

“Fuck off grandad,” Jamie says good-naturedly. “Wanted to tell this one that some of the lads are going out dancing after this. Not too late,” he hastily adds at Roy’s burning scowl, “just for two hours and we’re only allowed one drink.”

You’re pretty sure that’s a bit more liberal than Roy likes, but he nods his head slightly so he must be in a good mood.

“So, you coming?” Jamie asks and before you can reply Sam and Keeley chorus, “Yes she is.”

You give Keeley a Look before turning back to Jamie. “Guess I am,” you reply.

The smile Jamie gives you does more to make your head spin than any amount of alcohol you’ve had in your lifetime.

—

Jamie has taken it upon himself to wipe that frown off your face. He might have been watching you over dinner and that might have been why he chose that exact moment to invite you out, but he’ll never fucking admit it to anyone except Sam. And Keeley. And maybe Cockburn when it was the off-season and they were a little tipsy. (But not drunk, never drunk.) 

So yeah, sue him if he’s spinning you around on the crowded dance floor just because it makes you laugh. It’s not his fault that he’s been wildly in love with you since the day Higgins hired you. It’s not his fault that you’re easy to be around and have the most beautiful smile he’s seen in his life. 

And fuck, it certainly isn’t his fault you can’t see in yourself what others do. Why you settled for a piece of shit like your ex, he’ll never know. But he’ll be damned if he doesn’t do his best to show you how special you are. He knows you’ll never feel the same about him, but maybe he can help you level up your standards. Maybe if you’re with someone good, it’ll hurt less that it’s not him. 

So he lets you hold his hand for the entirety of the two hours that the team is out and doesn’t say a word when you don’t let go in the cab back to the hotel. 

You’ve gotten that closed-off look in your eyes again, the one that means you’re thinking about your ex, so Jamie knocks his shoulder into yours and asks why he can’t have the password to the team’s Instagram account, which is a sure fire way to get you to lecture him on irresponsibility and aesthetics and the best way to get your eyes to come back to life.

—

Honestly, it’s easier to fall asleep than you might have expected. It’s a big bed and you’re fucking tired. 

You just didn’t expect to wake up in the middle of the night crying, but it’s always fucking like this when you go through a breakup. You go to sleep fine and wake up sad, so you do your best not to wake up Jamie except you’ve both ended up entangled in each other’s arms, so he can feel you shaking. 

“Hey,” Jamie says in a soft voice, “You’re okay, love.”

You half expect him to push you away once he realizes you’re so close, but he only pulls you closer and presses a kiss to your forehead. Maybe it’s because you’re both half-asleep, but it feels like the most natural thing in the world. 

You sigh and settle into him, drifting off in a matter of moments. 

—

You wake up to a pair of blue eyes watching you. 

“How you feeling?” Jamie asks, voice gravelly with sleep. 

You just blink at him. It’s hard to form coherent sentences within the first ten seconds of waking up, and even harder with the memory of Jamie’s arms around you last night. 

Wait. Not just the memory. The present reality because neither of you have moved. 

Jamie misinterprets your silence and begins to extricate his arms.

“Sorry,” he says, “I’m not to trying to like, cross and fucking boundary or something. Should’ve left you alone.”

You’re still not awake enough to talk so you grab him to stop him from moving away. He gives you a questioning look so you say, “I wouldn’t have agreed to share a bed if I thought you were a creep.”

Jamie grins. “So like, if Jan had offered to share a room you’d’ve said no.”

You wrinkle your nose as you say, “Jan’s not a creep.”

“He’s the fucking worst,” Jamie grumbles, “And anyway, can we not talk about Jan fucking Maas this early in the morning?”

“Sure,” you say, “let’s talk about something else.”

Despite your comment, you both lapse into silence. You’re enraptured by Jamie’s blue eyes. You’ve never been able to study them this close before, and you want to take this opportunity to memorize every fleck of green. 

Jamie seems to have a similar thought, except his gaze flicks to your lips. 

“I have morning breath,” you tell him and he says, “Real men don’t give a shit, babe,” before leaning forward.

It’s softer than you’d expected, sweeter. 

It’s also strange to think that you’re making out with Jamie in bed, and that he’s the one who initiated it.

The thought is so absurd that you giggle, mid-kiss. Jamie breaks away and says, “Oi, there’s no way that was a shit kiss.”

“No,” you say between giggles, “it’s just weird that we’re doing this. Like, how are we supposed to look each other in the eye after?”

Jamie moves so he can look at you better, and you roll from your side to your back. “What do you mean?” he asks.

“Oh come on, we share a room and a bed, we kiss because I have all these sad feelings and you’re feeling a lot of emotions about the match, and then we have to work together after. It’s silly.”

Jamie cocks his head. “That’s what you think is happening?”

“Yes?” you say. None of this is going how it’s supposed to. “What do you think is happening?”

“I like you,” he says, and there is absolutely no mistaking his meaning. 

“Oh,” you reply in a small voice. “Since when?”

“Since before you started dating the twat. When Higgins introduced ya to the team.”

“That’s a fucking long time ago!” you exclaim. “Were you ever going to tell me?”

Jamie rubs his face. “Yeah, ‘cept you showed up to work tellin’ everyone how you started dating the twat. And I ain’t a home wrecker.”

You groan. “Fuuuck. I literally only dated him to try to get over you.”

Jamie shoots up. “What?!”

“Yeah,” you say, “I’ve been like a little bit in love with you ever since you winked at me during that first promo I did.”

Jamie blows out a breath. “Okay. Think that’s enough talking. C’mere. We’re making out proper, like, then we’re going to breakfast.”

You grin as you climb onto his lap. 

[cauliflowercounty]

In the Stands

Jamie Tartt x Reader

Summary:  Jamie x reader drabble for anon

“Can I request a Jamie Tartt fic based off this TikTok please?”

Warnings: Cussing but if you watch Ted Lasso idk why ur worried about that

Word Count : 1.1K

The Dog Track roars as the Richmond team walk out onto the field to play Tottenham Hotspur for the quarter final of this year’s FA Cup. Jamie surveys the crowd, a sea of red and blue alive with excitement, scarves and flags waving in the crisp air as the team huddles in a pre-game circle. The Richmond faithful's song swells and fills the air.

“We’re Richmond ‘till we die!  We’re Richmond ‘til we die! We know we are, We’re sure we are, We’re Richmond ‘til we die!”

As Isaac shouts out orders for warm up, Jamie can’t help but raise his gaze up to the private boxes. He looks up and smiles to himself, seeing you bundled up in your jacket and gloves next to Keeley, who’s whispering something into your ear.  You push up your Richmond beanie as it almost falls down over your eyes.  Rebecca steps down and takes a seat next to you, handing you and Keeley hot coffees.

Jamie had never expected to date a popstar, much less one that Keeley introduced him to. You’d come into his life unexpectedly. After getting rejected from Lust Conquers All and Man City, he thankfully was able to return to Richmond after Ted changed his mind, but the team had had a difficult time accepting his return. Despite being given the cold shoulder by the team, he still looked forward to coming to the club each day because you were there.

Keeley had brought you on for PR for the club.  She and Rebecca had decided you could write a song about Richmond, which would benefit both parties, and you had just returned to the UK after being away on a North American tour in support of your latest album.  

In order for you to get some inspiration for the song, Keeley and Rebecca asked Ted to let you observe training and attend games, so you could understand the essence and culture of the team, so the song would be truly representative of Richmond. Nate was originally very resistant to the idea, thinking that you would be a distraction to the team, Beard didn’t mind, and Roy was more or less apathetic to the idea, so you were brought onto the team. 

Once Jamie saw you, he knew you were different than anyone else he had known before.  You were creative like Keeley, but you had this air about you that put him at ease. You had shown every person in the club remarkable kindness and seemed genuinely happy to be there, but he had also seemed to catch your eye as well, but Jamie was unsure if that was real or just his imagination.

Overtime, you became universally loved by the whole Richmond team because of your warmth and humor. Day by day, the bond you had formed with the team got stronger and stronger as you traveled with them for matches, hung around the club, celebrated their wins, and mourned their losses. You were all close-knit, but your and Jamie’s relationship was different than the one you had everyone else.  

It all started two weeks after you arrived when you were singing in the locker room after you thought everyone was gone. You'd taken to songwriting after hours after everyone was gone in order to soak in the atmosphere of the club to spur your creative juices. He'd forgotten his phone yet again when he caught you singing to yourself, circling the locker room.

You were shocked to see him and had blushed in embarrassment that you were singing so loud when you weren't actually the only one left, but he had made it clear that you had nothing to be ashamed of.

"I think you sound great," he had said, which made you heave a sigh of relief. "Would you mind showing me more of what you have for the song?"

You obliged, and since that day, you and Jamie would hang back after training. You'd sing Jamie the melodies you were toying with, play your guitar, and run lyrics by him. Songwriting wasn’t ever something Jamie had shown interest in, but now that you were letting him in on the process, he had grown to enjoy it, especially since it was an excuse to spend some alone time with you.

Overtime, his inclination had blossomed into what felt like a boyhood crush. He desperately wanted to ask you out on a real date, but he was worried that you’d say no and that you’d never have another of your after hours songwriting sessions or that your friendship with Keeley would keep you from saying yes.  To his delight, you immediately said yes when he accidentally blurted out "could I take you for coffee sometime?"

Coffee turned to dinner, which turned into a budding romance. As soon as the team realized you were getting along with Jamie, they seemed more inclined to hear him out, and you even encouraged Jamie to apologize. Jamie was thankful that you had helped him bridge the rift between him and the rest of the team. Now you were all like one big, happy family and Richmond was on a win streak.

From the pitch, Jamie smiles in your direction and waves his hands high above his head to get your attention. He sees Keeley point his way, tapping your shoulder.  Your eyes dart to him and you immediately smile, seeing him grinning at you like a little kid.  The whole Richmond team lets out a series of “oohs” and slap Jamie on his shoulders when he makes a heart with his arms in your direction. You wave back to him, shouting “Good luck, Jamie!”

Some of the Tottenham players look over to the group of Richmond players and then up to the stands, trying to see what the commotion from their opponents is about.  Their kitman’s eyes raise as he nearly misses one of the players hands when he tries to hand him a water bottle.  

“No way!” the kitman gasps, his eyes wide.  

“What is it?” a player says, looking to the stands as well, finally seeing you waving at the Richmond gang.  “Oh shit!” The player goes to tap his teammate on the shoulder and points up at you from the field.

“Who’s the fuck's that?!” another says rather gruffly, which makes the entire Richmond team burst into laughter as the Tottenham players seemed completely taken aback at your presence, especially since you’re sporting Richmond gear of all things.  Jamie blows a kiss your way with a flourish, which makes you blush. You shake your head at his cheesiness.

You mouth “good luck! Go get ‘em” to Jamie, and he smiles in thanks to you, his heart swelling with confidence.  Ted calls the boys over for a few final words before the match starts and with your support, Jamie’s ready to go all out with his team today. 

--

Thanks for reading!

[lunar-years]

Okay. Let's talk Jamie and Roy getting beers and being idiots.

I know we are all still processing that whirlwind of a finale. I'm understanding that a lot of people hate the Roy & Jamie scene because it is 1) backslide-y (true) 2) they treat Keeley like a prize to be won (true) and 3) it's OOC (I actually disagree with this one, but I can understand why it's complicated). I want to start off by saying I completely see where this opinion is coming from and I respect everyone who just hates the scene because it shows normally kind characters being very unkind to each other etc. This is less me arguing against that as it is me trying to articulate (at great length, sorry) why it not only worked for me, but I genuinely liked it.

I like to think I strike a balance between loving everything the show has done and hating overwhelmingly on a show I claim to enjoy, but sure, you could definitely argue that I'm just giving my favorite characters the benefit of the doubt, or making excuses for them, because they're my favorite characters. I'll admit I'm historically very forgiving of all the main characters' many fuck-ups on Ted Lasso, but that's because I think the show works best when it emphasizes how kindness, forgiveness, friendship and love can still operate between imperfect, flawed people. I like seeing them make realistic mistakes much more than I like everyone handling everything perfectly, I'll bite.

So, back to Jamie and Roy. I enjoyed their finale plot because despite them making a world of mistakes, the regression felt very, very human. I don't agree at all with the take that this somehow erased all the progress they've made this season or the friendship the show has lovingly crafted between them. In fact, I think this actively reiterated it! (Note: I am operating with my ot3 goggles on at all times, so I'm going to write this with that at least partially in mind, but I think the gist of it works even if you ignore the bits that get a little shippy.)

For both Jamie and Roy, Keeley and their love for her is a major beacon guiding them. I think that is the crisp, clear thing in both of their heads this episode: Keeley is the love of my life. And they both believe that wholeheartedly, and they both want to be with her. (and it's goofy to pretend this came out of nowhere for Jamie/since when is Jamie still in love with her/etc. because he literally told her and us this last season and nothing that has happened since has indicated otherwise, btw.) But there's also something else now, which is their relationship with each other, battling with their Keeley thoughts. It's like, in Roy's head, for instance, I imagine there are two wolves: on the one hand he loves Keeley, and wants to be with her, and plans to win back her heart. On the other hand, there's his love and care for Jamie Tartt, which is much less defined and inarticulate and maybe still a little repressed, but just as overpowering. His love for Keeley feels so simple and clear in comparison, while his love for Jamie is something complicated and unsure, and in this episode, he's leaning hard into the first to avoid unpacking the second.

So Roy starts off strong. He sees Jamie with Keeley in the hallway and he doesn't flip out!! Instead, he approaches Jamie calmly, and invites him out for beers. Think about how different this is from his reaction to Jamie's love confession to Keeley in season 2. This is Roy's growth in action, and it's a resounding sign of just how important Jamie is to Roy now. Even when he is feeling jealous of the woman he loves potentially leaving him behind for a man he loves (a completely natural reaction, let's be so real, if not a "good" one), he also knows that for as much as he wants to be with Keeley, he doesn't want to lose his friendship with Jamie.

As for Jamie, I know some people took his reaction and subsequent response to Nate's question as like, shock at the realization that he and Roy are actually friends now, which I agree is something that had to have come earlier in the timeline (what was Mom City if not that) and would seem very out of place at this point. What I saw it as instead was Jamie's brain more just. sort of short-circuiting? Because: holy shit isn't this the best day ever? First Keeley agreed to go to Brazil with me and now Roy is asking me on a date for beers? this is so sound. This invite is out of place behavior from Roy even within the parameters of their friendship, because they still have a match to win and Roy has banned Jamie from beers as part of his training and despite them being close now I find it hard to believe that Roy often comes up to him right there in dressing room to ask him to grab a beer with no pretense.

Therefore, they're already walking into that bar in completely different head-spaces. Jamie isn't planning to discuss Keeley, and for Roy that is his major intention behind the evening. Jamie is nervous and downing his beer, and Roy is internally panicking, I'm imagining, over when and how to bring Keeley up. I think Roy is thinking: Well, I don't intend to stop pursuing Keeley, I genuinely don't want Jamie's feelings to be hurt when I get back together with her (and yes, it is a huge presumption for him to assume Keeley's going to eventually take him back. But I think it's also an understandable one), so I've got to tell Jamie I care about him, and that I'm going to keep going after Keeley, and he needs to be okay with that so that this won't get in the way of our friendship, which I also desperately need and am unwilling to give up. In his mind, Jamie is of course going to accept all of this, because Roy and Keeley are soulmates, which Jamie will clearly recognize deep down because it is so obvious and right and anyway, Jamie always does what Roy tells him to do (again, this is all misguided thinking. But we can see how Roy's anxious little brain that's bad at processing feelings and holding space for emotions could get himself here, can't we?).

So again, we start off strong with Roy saying he's proud of Jamie and them both thanking one another. But then Roy's blurting out nonsense about how Jamie just needs to pull himself out of the running and just let Roy be with Keeley. Which is obviously not on. And Jamie responds, simply, with No. I'd argue this is also a huge step for Jamie. Jamie really doesn't tell Roy no anymore, he doesn't tell anyone no. Jamie has spent so much of his time since coming back to Richmond working to be the person everyone around him wants and expects him to be. This is him fighting for something he wants for once, doing what is best for him. It was a fabulous progression to see. In the moment, boy does it work Roy up, because why is Jamie not agreeing with me, Jamie always agrees with me? but obviously at this point, Jamie is in the right. His relationship with Keeley was no less meaningful than Roy's just because Roy says it was, Roy doesn't have any claim on her, and there's no real reason Jamie should not try and shoot his shot with Keeley if Roy is going to do the same.

Here's where things start to spiral. Established flaws we know about Roy: he's competitive. He's bad at voicing his feelings productively. And he is territorial about the people he loves, a category that safely includes both Jamie and Keeley at this point in time, for better and sometimes worse. Yes, his next actions are grossly possessive over Keeley, yes Roy has made a lot of effort over the past year to do and be better than that, to break free of that cycle. But look, it's not a linear process. He's going to still mess up, and he does here. In fact he's downright mean, weaponizing Keeley against Jamie and throwing having sex with Keeley a month ago into Jamie's face, bragging about it, boasting. Same old cycle, same old patterns of ego-driven, prideful mistakes.

Which promptly prompts Jamie to also fuck up by bringing up the leak. It's a concentrated response intended to get a suitable rise out of Roy, because Roy has really, genuinely hurt him here, and Jamie knows bringing up that video is the one thing that will hurt Roy just as much in turn. It's not the right thing to do, obviously, but again, it's such a human thing to do. Hurt the person who's hurt you right back, even if you're hurting someone else (Keeley) by extension. Mind you, Jamie came here expecting a hangout (/date) with Roy over a rare beer, and instead he got Roy being a complete asshole and lecturing nonsense at him out of seemingly nowhere. He reacts to this change-up, well, not greatly. There is something so messy and emotionally complicated happening here and it hinges on how very much Jamie and Roy care about each other, not negates it.

Keeley, queen that she is, rejects them both out of hand and kicks them out not the curb immediately because they're both being complete idiots, acting like they're so gracious in giving her the honor and privilege of choosing between them. Not to mention they've clearly got something going on between them they haven't worked through and that sure as shit isn't her problem, is it? Keeley (presumably, and I wish we had seen this) calls them out their shit and tosses them right back out the door.

Which leaves Jamie and Roy to lament how they've let their egos get away from them, they've been idiots (which they acknowledge immediately) and decide that now they should go for kebabs, presumably to actually hangout this time, not to interrupt themselves with inflated talk about who "deserves" Keeley more. They both screwed up, they acknowledge it, and all they can do is try again tomorrow, and in the meantime, go on that kebab date.

I guess....I can just see where both of them are coming from? it's not mature behavior, obviously, it's maybe not what we would have liked to have seen from them in the finale episode of the show. But it was regression that I didn't feel impeded their overall progress. Roy in particular was being a complete dick about it, but that's why the very next morning he's finally knocking on the Diamond Dogs' door. And honestly, that conversation was heartbreaking. When Roy admitted he'd expected, after a year of putting in the work, to be a whole new person...god. This is a man who still completely hates himself, to the point where he can't quite grasp that he can be better where he's at now, that he doesn't have to transform magically into someone new in order to do right by himself and others. And so he has to consciously determine, once again, to do better, be better.

The message is: change isn't linear, you're going to fuck-up, and fall back into old patterns. What matters is trying every day to do better together, and be better for one another, than you were the day before. That is the meeting point all three sides of the royjamiekeeley triangle were heading towards by the end of the episode.

So yes, it was rushed, because no one gets much screen time in a finale (and the overarching issue with this season anyway is god awful pacing. The last three episodes could've easily been the second half of the season, while the first half of the season was stretched out and largely extraneous). And yes, I would've liked a more thoughtful follow-up conversation between Roy and Keeley or all three of them. My biggest issue was that we didn't get to hear Keeley's voice hardly at all. I would at the very least have liked to have seen her setting them straight at her kitchen table, because turning both of them down signifies very important growth in her, too, and I would've liked exploring that more explicitly. So it wasn't perfect. But I still liked it, I really did.

[ofstarsandvibranium]

if it’s not too much to ask (🥺) could you do a reader who’s best friends with Colin and he teases her about her crush on Jamie and tries to get them together? If not, NO WORRIES. Your stuff is so 🥰

(this ended up being a lot longer than I intended...whoops!)

You and Colin grew up together. You were two peas in a pod, the thickest of thieves. You knew everything about each other. You were the first person he told when he realized he was gay. He was the first person you told after you had your first kiss. You're each other's platonic soulmates.

As such, you're always trying to help each other in regards to your dating lives. When he told you about Michael, you were excited to see your best friend finally found his person. Michael was amazing and you two clicked instantly, to Colin's relief.

Your love life? Weeeell...

Colin and Michael were expecting you since twenty minutes prior, you texted them: THIS DATE SUCKS. IM COMING OVER.

So you're now sitting on Colin's couch in between the couple.

"So what happened this time?" Colin asks.

"All he talked about was football, specifically West Ham," that got Colin groaning, "He also looked my Instagram up and saw the pictures of you and I. Asked if we dated in the past, if you'd be able to get him tickets to the next Richmond versus West Ham game."

"You know you can archive the pictures of us so people-"

"No. I'd never do that to you, Col. It's like I'm ashamed of you and I'm not."

Colin gives a small smile and nod of appreciation, "Thanks, babe."

"Maybe you can set her up with one of your teammates," Michael suggests.

A lightbulb went off in Colin's head and you immediately said, "Don't."

"He's available."

"It'll be weird!"

"No, it won't!"

"Isn't he a dickhead?"

"Not as much anymore!"

Michael waved in front of you and Colin, "What's going on?"

You groan, hiding your face in your hands, "Kill me."

Colin snickers, "Y/N's celebrity crush before I got into the league was Jamie Tartt. When she found out he was being lent to Richmond, she freaked out. Made a complete fool of herself by tripping in front of him and getting a bloody nose."

"Ooohh. That's pretty bad." Michael says, wincing.

"It was so mortifying!" you cry out, "There's no way he'd want to date me after that disaster!"

"He might not even remember it," Colin says reassuringly.

"I don't want to risk it," you turn to Michael, "Michael, tell him it's a bad idea."

Michael looks to his boyfriend, "Do you vouch for Jamie?"

Colin nods, "I do, actually. He's completely turned his act around. He can still be a prick sometimes, but it's not as bad as it was when he first joined the team."

Michael focuses back on you, "You should go for it."

You immediately stand up, "Nope. I'm not making myself out to be a fool again. No thanks! I'm out!"

_____________________

"Hey, Jamie," Colin rushes up to Jamie as he exits his car.

Closing the door behind him, Jamie responds, "Yeah, mate?"

"You're not seeing anyone right?"

"No," Jamie replies with furrowed brows, look of confusion.

"My best friend, Y/N, she's beautiful, funny, and smart and think you and her would be a great match." Colin holds out his phone, showing Jamie a really great candid picture of you that he took when you two went to dinner months ago.

Jamie nods at the picture. You were, indeed, very beautiful. The way the sun hit your skin made you look angelic, "She's...nice."

Colin rolls his eyes, "One date. That's all I ask."

"Why me though?" Jamie still looks a bit confused, "Why not Bumbercatch or Isaac?"

"I just think you and Y/N would fit really well. She's been having a rough time with dating so I figured you'd show her how she should be treated."

To be fair, Jamie was thinking about getting back into the dating scene. He finally got over Keeley, accepting that they'd just be better off as friends. You seemed like a decent person, from the few things Colin mentioned. Might as well, right?

"Fuck it. Sure."

Colin fist bumped the air, "Yes! You won't regret it. I'll make the plans. You just show up."

"Yeah, yeah, alright."

_______________

You show up to Ola's, a place you've been to before. As soon as you walk in, Colin and Michael are there.

"I need to preface this and say you can't be mad at me," Colin says.

You narrow your eyes at him, "What did you do?"

"It'll be fine. I promise. Michael and I will be on the other side of the restaurant if you need anything, but you won't, because it'll be great."

"But if it goes wrong, it was definitely all his doing," Michael says, pointing to Colin.

Colin grimaces, "Thanks, babe." He takes your hand and leads you towards the back corner where Jamie fucking Tartt was sitting.

You immediately give Colin a look and he pushes you towards him, murmuring, "It'll be fine!"

You slowly approach the table and Jamie looks up, giving you a polite smile as he pockets his phone.

"Hi, I'm Jamie," he offers his hand out.

"I know," you say as you shake his hand, "I'm so sorry Colin roped you into this. You really don't have to be here if you don't want to."

He shrugs, "It's fine. Been meanin' to get back into the dating game. Besides, if things don't really work out, we get free dinner and drinks out of it, yeah?"

Your brows shot up, "Colin's paying?"

Jamie nods, "He said he would."

You smirk and gesturing for a server. He smiles at you, "Would you like to start with drinks?"

You nod, "Yes, we'll have your most expensive bottle please."

It's now Jamie's brows that shoot up and he looks at you in surprise. When the server leaves to get the drinks, you lean in and said, "It's payback," you sigh as you sit down.

"So...you weren't too keen on going on a date with me then?" he asks awkwardly.

You suddenly look mortified, "No, no! That's not it at all it's-I-ugh!" you slump back in your chair. You let out a deep breath and sit up again, "Alright, so I believe two years ago, you and I actually met before and I made a complete fool out of myself because I tripped and ate the pavement. I busted my lip, there was lots of blood. Not a pretty sight or a cool thing to do in front of your celebrity crush."

Jamie smirks, "I'm your celebrity crush?"

You sit there in silence, mentally cursing yourself and Colin for making you go through this embarrassment again. You stand, "Right, okay, I've embarrassed myself enough. I'm leaving."

Jamie rushes to a stand, "No, please, don't. I'm only teasin' ya. It's nothin' bad, I promise. You're-You're very cute when you're flustered."

"Thanks," you murmur.

Luckily, the server came back with the most expensive bottle of wine. As soon as he poured your glass, you began downing it. Jamie watches you in amusement.

"Sorry, I just need some liquid courage to get through this."

Jamie leans forward, resting his arms on the table, "How about this, we just forget who I am for tonight. I'm not Jamie Tartt, the most amazing striker in the league. Just Jamie, a nervous lad on a date with a beautiful girl."

"You're nervous?" you ask in shock.

He shrugs, "It's been a while since I've gone on a proper date. Kinda forgot how to do this sort of stuff."

"Pft, I've gone on many dates and so far, you're the best one."

"Yeah? Tell me about 'em."

And that's how dinner goes. Over another glass and eventually over some food, you tell Jamie about your past dates. He tells you about some ridiculous things he's done with the guys when Coach Lasso was around. It was nice. It was nice knowing that Jamie wasn't here because he wanted to get close to Colin. He was there because he wanted to. You assumed he was interested in you by the way he flirted with you throughout the nice. So maybe this wasn't such a bad thing after all.

Once dinner was over, Colin came over with a pout, "Did you guys really have to order the most expensive items here?!"

"That's what you get for tricking me like that," you boop his nose and Michael snickers as he weaves his fingers through Colin's.

"But it went alright, yeah?" he looks at you and Jamie.

"I'd say so," Jame puts his hand on your lower back, "We're, uh, actually gonna head to a pub for more drinks."

"Oh! Well, uh, I think Michael and I will head on home then."

You don't want to give Colin the satisfaction just yet, so you say, "I'll text you later when I'm home."

"Sounds good," he says and pulls at Michael's hand, "Let's go, babe."

Looking over his shoulder, Michael gives you a wink and a thumbs up.

You snort and then turn to Jamie, "Ready?"

"Whenever you are, love." and you two head out onto more drinks, more talking, and, hopefully, more dates after this.

[alwritey-aphrodite]

Paint The Town Blue

Chapter Five of There’s Nothing Like This

Series Masterlist

Pairing: Jamie Tartt x fem!footballer!reader

Warnings: drinking

Word Count: 2.9k

Author’s Note: I love how every Ted Lasso fic series has a gala chapter, we’re so cute like that

The rest of the week passes in a blur of glittering gowns and sweaty training sessions, face masks and bruises. It was surprisingly easy to find a dress for the gala, and you settle on something simple enough so you can hopefully wear it again after looking at the price tag. Training is rough, and you leave every day wondering how you’re able to walk, but your mood had improved considerably after Monday’s episode.

By the time Thursday morning rolls around, you’re nothing more than a bundle of nerves, terrified for the match and the gala and what everyone is going to think of you. You’d always assumed that people’s opinions of you wouldn’t affect you as much as what you think about yourself, but now that seemingly everyone has something negative to say, it’s starting to wear you down. It’s like there are two different forces propelling you forward: one that wants to win and one that needs to prove everyone wrong.

You know your teammates feel the same way.

The dressing room is thrumming with energy and tension about to snap, all of you primed and ready for the match ahead. Your nervous energy has peaked and dissipated after spending time in the dressing room, laughing and smiling with your teammates while you prepare, securing your hair back and waiting for one of the coaches to give the pre-match pep talk even though you’re paying more attention to readying yourself mentally than anything that comes out of their mouths, and you leave the dressing room feeling ready for whatever happens on the pitch.

When you return to the dressing room ninety minutes later, it’s to the jubilant singing of your teammates. It’d been a harsh fight, but you managed to score in the seventieth minute to secure a 1-0 win, pushing you higher in the standings.

“Oi!” Roy breaks through the revelry, “Don’t get too shit-faced tonight, you still have training tomorrow.”

“And free drinks tomorrow night!” Keeley adds as she enters the dressing room, causing another wave of fanfare to erupt, more for the woman herself than her statement.

“So maybe we push off the celebration?” Elena offers, and even though she’s met with a chorus of booing, you all eventually agree that tonight will be for resting and tomorrow can be for celebrating while bringing attention to whatever charity is at the center of the gala.

As much as you want to bask in the glow of the win, you change out of your kit as fast as possible, already dreaming about the warm shower waiting for you at home. Maybe you’ll treat yourself to some takeout instead of whatever leftover meal prep is sitting in your fridge. You say your goodbyes to the girls, congratulating Naomi, your goalkeeper, on all her amazing saves as you leave the dressing room to wait for Mackie in the hallway, where it’s cooler and less crowded and you can breathe deeply for the first time in ninety minutes.

Checking your phone, you see a text from Jamie and are a little embarrassed at how quickly you open it.

Congrats on the win!! You played great today, might have to ask you for some pointers

You hate the way you smile down at your phone as you type a response, reminding yourself that Jamie is your friend and a new one at that.

Thanks! Are you sure you could even handle any more training?

The three little dots appear as Mackie leaves the dressing room, so you close your phone and slip it into your pocket as quickly as possible. Knowing Mackie, she would make everything into a big deal, and you didn’t want to ruin one of your first friendships in Richmond outside of the team just because Mackie loves jumping to conclusions.

Driving home with Mackie is always the perfect way to end your evenings, she always knows if you want quiet or talking or hype music or relaxing music, and even when you don’t talk it’s wonderful to know you have someone next to you. Today, she’s a chatterbox, going on and on about all the calls she thought should have been fouls or yellow cards.

By the time she’s dropping you off, you’re laughing so hard there are tears pouring out of your eyes and you never want to spend a moment apart from her ever again.

“Alright, get out, I wanna go to bed,” Mackie says through the remnants of her laughter, pushing at your shoulder until you leave the car.

Your evening plans are very similar to Mackie’s, and you order takeout before you take a long, hot shower to relax your muscles that had gone into overdrive before you slip into your bed and turn on mind numbing television while you scroll through your phone. You text back and forth with Jamie for a while, confirming that he’s coming to the charity event Keeley has planned for Friday and he tells you that he’s pretty sure Keeley stuck you at the same table as him.

It’s terrifying how nervous that makes you feel, nervous like you’re about to hit the peak of a roller coaster or walk down the aisle in a white gown.

When you wake in the morning, it’s after a solid eight hours of sleep where you were plagued by the strangest dreams of weddings and fancy dresses and cars driven by Jamie Tartt. As odd as your dreams were, it was the best sleep you’d gotten since you arrived in Richmond and you’re finally starting to feel less keyed up.

Training is easy as well, and most of your day is spent reviewing game footage and reevaluating certain tactics and laughing so much you’re a little bit worried you’re going to pee yourself. As serious as you all can be, as anxious as everyone is on match day, it’s hard to feel anything but joy when you’re surrounded by your team and you’re riding high on the win from yesterday and the promise of free booze later.

As everyone’s packing up and showing pictures of dresses and shoes and hairstyles, Keeley pops in, clearly looking frazzled.

“Remember to be on our best behavior, yeah? At least until all the old people get tired and go home,” she smiles then, and you just wish you could tell her that tonight will be perfect and have her believe you.

Your training ended at the same time as the men’s team, giving everyone ample time to get ready for the gala, and you pretend to ignore the way Mackie stares at you when you wave goodbye to Jamie. She drops you off, promising to pick you up at seven and you know she’s refraining from making a joke about you finding a “better date” with a certain striker and you’re grateful for her self control.

When you finally make your way inside, all the stress and pressure from the week, from the month, come crashing down around you but you do your best to work through it, knowing you have a weekend full of absolutely nothing to look forward to. You take your time getting ready, luxuriating in the shower and spending longer than you ever have on your hair and makeup, the threat of a red carpet and paparazzi making bile rise in your throat.

Still, you manage to finish getting ready before Mackie arrives, giving you plenty of time to marinate in your own self doubt and anxiety. Never in your life have you needed to attend an event like this, let alone an event when most of the attention will be on you and your teammates. All you hope is that everything goes smoothly, for your sake and for Keeley’s. You know it’s eating at her how poorly received the women’s team has been, and you know she needs a win from the press.

Hopefully tonight goes well and she raises lots of money for charity before getting absolutely shitfaced with the Greyhounds.

As expected, Mackie arrives right on time, looking absolutely stunning in the suit you’d picked out together on Tuesday. She gives a wolf whistle as you lock your front door and make your way to the car, pausing to give her a little spin so she could see the dress, and you, in all its glory. You’ve never been one for fancy dresses, but Mackie’s reaction makes you think you should dress up more.

The drive to the venue only serves to give your anxiety time to grow, despite the gentle way Mackie tries to distract you with her talks of nonsense. Throughout your years of friendship, she’s always done her best to support you through events and nights like these, even though standing in the spotlight has always come naturally to her. By the time you slip out of the car and spot the photographers and the carpet and the rest of your teammates, you’re on the verge of throwing up and considering making a run for it when Mackie grabs you gently by the arm and steers you towards the carpet.

Finding your team waiting to get their pictures taken, you’re met with excited shouts and whistles and expletives as you and Mackie approach, as if they’re not also dressed to the nines and looking more beautiful than anyone you’ve ever seen. There are a few of the men’s players hanging around and chatting with your teammates, but they usher you forward onto the carpet, letting your team bask in the spotlight for once.

Mackie, as if sensing the anxiety radiating off of you in waves, grabs your hand and pulls you forward, stopping and posing with you until you make it safely to the other side of the carpet. Already overwhelmed, you simply squeeze her hand in silent thanks before dropping it as you make your way inside, dazzled by Keeley’s hard work and dedication.

The entire space is transformed, and what was before an empty, boring ballroom is covered in silver twinkling stars and ambient lighting and a sea of tables complete with numbers and place cards. Keeley truly never ceases to amaze you, and the fact that she could pull all of this off while working at her own PR company and helping to run the Greyhounds’ social media is mind boggling to you. As much as you want to tell her how great of a job she’s done, you can see her bouncing around from table to table and you can’t even imagine the stress she’s under, so you promise yourself you’ll tell her later.

When you finally find your table in the sea of others, Jamie, Colin, and Isaac are already sitting down, and the way Jamie smiles when he notices you makes you feel a little bit dizzy.

“Well, now it’s a party!” Colin says when he glances up and sees Mackie after noticing the spaced-out look that had appeared on Jamie’s face, and he stands to get everyone a drink. Your seat, apparently, is right next to Jamie, and you have to wonder if Keeley had planned it that way or if someone might have meddled.

By the forced look of nonchalance on Isaac’s face, you’re guessing it’s the second one.

“You look really nice,” Jamie says as he scrambles to pull your chair out, and you shamelessly let your eyes rove up and down his body, taking in the way his dark trousers hug his thighs and the exposed skin of his chest underneath his mostly unbuttoned shirt. Friends are allowed to admire how their friends look, you tell yourself, forcing the word ‘friend’ into your brain over and over again.

“So do you,” you tell him truthfully as you take a seat, and your heart flutters a little as his cheeks redden slightly.

The chatter throughout the room and the music playing softly creates a gentle hum in the background, but you’re not paying attention to anything except your table. Colin’s boyfriend, Micheal, was giving you all an earful about all the pains of dating a footballer, and between the way he’s cracking jokes and the drink you’d all but pounded to calm your nerves, you’re laughing harder than you have in ages. Lucky for you, your entire table seems to be in a similar position and the tables around you are so wrapped up in their own conversations that no one notices your rambunctious group.

After the food is served, though, you all manage to calm down to respectable levels, preparing yourselves for the long, drawn out auction that’s to come. Keeley is still fluttering around, and she stops by your table shortly after the entrees. She’s grinning, but you can tell she’s more than anxious from the way she keeps asking if everyone’s having a good time.

“Everything’s great, it’s beautiful in here,” you tell her, casting a glance around the room to look at the decor again.

“You guys look beautiful!” She counters, a genuine smile taking over her face and you just hope that the charity portion of the event is over soon so she can enjoy herself.

“Go eat!” You shoo her away, and you see Rebecca send you a wink out of the corner of her eye when she comes to steer Keeley back to her table.

Almost as soon as the plates are cleared away, Rebecca is thanking everyone for coming and thanking Keeley for planning such a beautiful night before beginning to auction off signed kits and match balls and VIP tickets for the rest of the season. You’re not sure if everyone’s been making good use out of the open bar or if the event is always this successful, but those items go for more money than you would have ever imagined.

While a few other guests continue to chat and sit by the bar to savor one last free drink, much of the remaining crowd works at Nelson Road in some capacity, and by the way Keeley glances around the room from her spot by the door, thanking everyone for coming as they leave, she’s clearly waiting for something.

Once it looks like the last guest has left, leaving behind the Greyhounds, Keeley takes to the stage, finally looking relaxed and bouncy and ready to party.

“Thank you guys for your good behavior,” she says to the crowd, and you all cheer back at her, “now let’s fucking party!”

If everyone had cheered for the first part of her sentence, then everyone was going crazy now, yelling so loud your ears hurt a little. The tables were all pushed away and some apparently famous DJ took the stage, and then it was time for a night of drinks and dancing with your friends, the perfect way to celebrate your win from yesterday and Keeley’s successful charity event.

Despite never being one for the club scene, the drinks and the company were making you feel like you could conquer anything, so you join the mass of swaying bodies, finding space to dance near Mackie and Amelia. You can’t remember ever feeling this loose, this carefree, so you intend to savor it.

After a few songs, though, your feet start killing you and you navigate your way out of the crowd to find a seat at the bar. Luckily for you, Jamie was sitting at the bar, watching the crowd with a beer bottle in his hand, and you know you light up when you see him. With all the drinks coursing through your body, you forget to be nervous around him, forget to remind yourself that he’s just a friend.

Plopping down next to him and unbuckling the tiny straps on your shoes, you sigh in relief once you can feel your toes again, giving yourself a little break before going back out to dance.

“Want a drink?” Jamie asks with a little nod back to the bar, an amused smile on his face as he watches you staring at your feet, willing them to feel better.

“Sure!” You chirp, talking louder than you normally would to be heard over the music. Jamie, ever the observer, remembers your drink of choice from early in the evening and slides one to you from across the bar.

“Why aren’t you dancing?” You ask him after taking a healthy swig from your drink.

“Don’t wanna,” he shrugs, looking from the crowd to you to the bottle in his hand, “someone here should be responsible, yeah?” Instead of a response, you just clink your glasses together with a smile.

Soon, you’re so wrapped up in Jamie that your mission to get back on the dance floor is completely forgotten. The two of you make your way outside, to hear each other better, and your heart ticks up when Jamie carries your shoes out for you, making no comment on you being barefoot in London.

He takes a seat on the steps and you follow suit, sitting closer than you normally would. You talk for what must be hours, trading stories from training and old clubs and your childhood determination to make it to the top, and much too soon for your liking, Elena is coming outside with Mackie on her arm.

“I promised I’d bring these two home,” she says, Mackie immediately pouting at the older woman.

“I guess it’s time for me to leave,” you sigh, gathering your shoes and standing as Elena attempts to get Mackie down the stairs, “thanks for talking with me.” You lean back down to plant a kiss on his cheek without a second thought.

You turn to leave, and you don’t notice the way Jamie tenderly touches the faint lipstick mark left behind on his cheek.

Tags: @andr0medafallen @buckychristwrites @benedictscanvas @whimsical-roasting @sokkigarden @guccilongboard @onceuponaoneshot @presidential-facts @yepyeahuhhuh @loveslide @allthefandomtherapy @gibby31 @buddyjuststop @ellietartt @cancvr @brianandthemays @sonyume @aiyaiy @captainfrisbee @dalebo3 @theloud-yet-quietone @imsoluckyeverythingworksoutforme @rockchickrebel @legobatmans9thab @curlypeter @lostinwonderland314 @yokolesbianism @jamietarttdodo @fan-goddess @innocentbi-stander @skewedcherries

[thetarttfuldickhead]

Like Phil, I’d like to think that Jamie and Keeley still go to Brazil, in spite of the boys’ recent fuck-up, but I’d also like to think that Roy comes with them. Not because Jamie and Keeley can’t be friend on their own or wouldn’t have the best time doing Brazil together – they would! – but because I think Jamie might be conscious, given everything that’s gone down recently, of potentially upsetting what he currently perceives as a rather delicate balance.   

Maybe he brings it up a few days later before they head over to Keeley’s for a joint apology, or maybe it happens already at the holy kebab place, once they’ve had a few bites and a chance to settle back into their normal; a little worse for wear, but with no lasting harm done.

And Jamie fiddles with his sleeves and makes little faces as he tries to decide what to say (and Roy notices and waits with some trepidation) and in the end he just comes right out and says it, because that’s what Jamie does, isn’t it?

“I asked Keeley to go to Brazil with me, for that Nike thing I’m doing.”

Roy blinks. He hadn’t known Jamie was doing a Nike thing. Jamie might have told him, but Roy usually stops listening whenever he starts blathering on about brands and clothes and shit, so yeah, if told he hadn’t heard.

“What did she say?” he asks after a slightly too long and awkward moment of Jamie looking up at him, almost through his fucking eyelashes, trying to gauge his reaction.

“She said yes.” And hastily, as if worried what Roy might say or do if given a moment to, he adds: “I didn’t do it to try to get back together or anything. I mean, I do wanna get back together and she’s my friend and I love her and I thought we’d have a great time, yeah, but also, she’s great at PR and all that stuff, so. Yeah. That’s why I asked her to come. Make sure I don’t fuck it up.”

And because you want her to be your girlfriend. Roy doesn’t say it, though. Neither of them want a repeat of what went down at the bar. This isn’t Jamie trying to goad him or hurt him, he’s pretty fucking sure of that, so he’ll listen carefully to everything Jamie has to say, and then he’ll react like a fucking grown-up.

Probably. Possibly.

“Anyway, I think you should, like, come with us.”

Fucking what now? “What?”

“You should come with me and Keeley to Brazil.” Jamie is nodding his head decisively, as if repeating the statement has fully convinced him of its veracity.

“You want me to come with you and Keeley to fucking Brazil?” Roy is aware of sounding like a demented parrot, but he doesn’t give a fuck, does he, because he doesn’t want there to be any fucking room for misinterpretation here.

Jamie doesn’t seem particularly concerned about Roy’s tone. Too used to it, probably. “Um, yeah. Yeah. I mean, probably can’t get Nike to pay for it, right, but you’re rich, so you can just get your own ticket and you can stay with me and Keeley in this villa they’ll set us up in. Can’t mind that.”

Which all sounds very reasonable, of course, but still doesn’t answer the most pressing question:  “Why?”

Jamie makes a face. “What do you mean, why? Because I don’t want shit to be weird between us, mate. And I think it’d be weird if Keeley and I went away and you stayed here after what happened, you know. Besides,” he adds, and suddenly he looks slightly shy; younger than he actually is, and vulnerable, “It’d probably be fun, yeah? All three of us going, together. Because we’re friends and all.”

And there’s something sharp and jagged turning in Roy’s gut at that, because underneath Jamie’s claim there’s a note of uncertainty that Roy had no trouble whatsoever guessing the origin of, and he adds it to the long list of things he hates himself for.

He doesn’t know how to express any of that, so what he says is, “Yeah. I guess. I’ll think about it.”

Jamie’s grin is immediate and wide; relieved and triumphant in equal measure, like he’s already won – like he already knows for a fact that Roy’s going to say yes.

Roy can’t even find it in him to mind that the little prick is right.

And then they all go to Brazil and I’m currently thinking that nothing further really happened between them there, because apparently they all need to do a little more thinking and feeling and figuring themselves out, but I’m sure they still had a grand, grand time of it.

[marvelling-at-marvel-blog]

The thing about S1 Jamie that I think is interesting is I think on rewatch there is some insight as to why Jamie went so hard on the bullying of Sam. (Not gonna be defending Jamie's treatment of Sam just looking into maybe why). Because out of all of the things Jamie did is season one. The one that seems hardest to understand or really forgive is his treatment of Sam. The first time around, you couldn't understand it. Sam is legitimately the kindest man in existence. (I know as a stroyteller it was the easiest way to really get us to dislike Jamie and really make us more understanding of Roy's treatment of Jamie which to be frank is not great and understand Ted's fruatrations with him) and Sam just keeps trying with Jamie.

But know I think it far to say thay S1 Jamie was jealous of Sam and his easy going, happy, postive nature. I dont think he was aware of it though.

Season 1 Jamie is so interesting because on paper, he had everything he thought he wanted. But I dint think he was overally happy. But yeah it seemed to be all his way

1. He played for the team he grew up supporting and dreamed of playing for. I imagine his first time stepping on that fiels in that uniform would have been monumental. Sure, maybe he wasn't a starter, but he got some minutes and the unspken agreement that in a few years, he would be a star.

2. I imagine he was initially disappointed to be loaned out, but then he learns he is being loaned to Richmond. Yeah they suck, but he gets to play a full 90 minutes, is basically going to be the best player, kick most of thier goals and he gets to be team mates with Roy Kent (he dreamed of playing against him one day, with him is a dream come true, I really think pre show Jamie would have been so excited to play with Roy Kent and was so disappointed in how it turned out). Plus, it has the added advantage of getting him away from his dad. And once his done his loan, he can come back to Manchester. This is his chance to get away from it for a while and be the star

3. He meets and gets to date Keely Jones who his always had a crush on. Dhe is literally a dream girl for him

So he should be happy right. His got everything he wanted, but it's not going the way he expected because.....

1. Roy Kent hates him (in my mind Roy was standoffish from the start, heres come this whizkid who was everything he used to be and slowly losing. I think Jamie came in at 100% and immediatley put Roy on the back foot). Jamie tries with Roy but the more it doesnt work the more Jamie goes OK, if I cant make him like me I will show him I am better than him. Hence the beginning of that relationship.

2. Yeah his away from his dad and his killing it at Richmond, scoring their goals, winning them matches but it only seems to be winning over half the team (he can't see yet his attitude is what is stopping the other guys from liking him). And the team still isn't doing great even with him. Plus he may be away from his Dad but his relationship with his mum feels like it in a werid place which sucks cause she is his favourite person ever.

3. And Keeley seems to be where its going right but sometimes it feels like his a bit of a project for her. And I think he has heard people (like Roy) question why she is with him.

And let's face it, he is still likely hearing from his dad when he doesn't perform up to his standards.

And then heres Sam. Who (at this point in time) isn't playing well, isn't scoring goals, not massively contributing to thier wins and yet he seems so genuinely happy all the time and everyone loves him, Roy Kent seems to like him and is friendly with him, complimenting him (which he has never done to Jamie). Sam is so open and kind he has probably talked about his dad in the locker room, and his relationship with his family seems perfect and that must gnaw at Jamie because all he ever wanted is to make his dad proud and his pretty sure he will never achieve it because the man is a d***k who is impossoble to please, yet Jamie never stops trying and things are werid with his mum which he hates. But all he hears when its brought up from Sam is how great his family is.

Then along comes the new gaffer who Jamie can't even understand why he is coaching, but he also seems to love Sam and wants him to be the decoy so Sam can kick the goal. Even though Jamie knows if he kicks it, it will go in.

Now we all know the reason Sam is liked is because he is an amazing, kind hearted, dedicated person, but I think S1 Jamie is so jealous and does not even know it.

Because S1 Jamie is still living with the notion that being the best in the most important thing ( thank you James Tartt Sr) so to Jamie he is out here busting his ass at training to be the best, scoring all the goals yet Sam seems to be the one who is living what he thought his dream time at Richmond was going to be. And I know I mention it but I think it is a big thing for Jamie, the harder he tries the more Roy seems to despise him, and take enjoyment in his embarrassment.

And S1 Jamie in all maturity handles his jealously by trying to make Sam feel as bad as he is feeling. Which Jamie, baby. That's kindergarten mentality. And poor Sam actually thinks Jamie is a great player and would love to learn from him in the beginning and isnt having a great time either.

But yeah. I dont think Jamie ever disliked Sam. I think he was insanly jealous of him all the time and didn't know how to handle that or even admit it himself.

Thanks for coming to my Ted Talk. Apologies for my rambles.

[youwillfindilluminating]

Roy x Jamie x Keeley & Roy x Jamie fic recs - Part 3

Part 1 is here

Part 2 is here

These recs cover the fics I’ve read from about 6/19/23 - 11/23/23, but some of them were written earlier. Sometimes there are spoilers for the fics themselves in the descriptions/quotes, but not too many. (They're all happily-ever-afters anyway. 🥰)

-

Roy x Jamie x Keeley:

Heart Trouble - MoreThanSlightly (cadignan) - Ted Lasso (TV) [Archive of Our Own] 7k. Set post-S3-fist-fight at Keeley’s. She asks them to reenact their fight and basically physically shoves them together in a NOW KISS situation. It’s fantastic! Roy working through his feelings, figuring his shit out in the moment - with lots of help from Keeley. Keeley directs R & J, and then she kicks them out to shower, and they still get kebabs and talk about their feelings.

family, right - jedusaur - Ted Lasso (TV) [Archive of Our Own] @jedusaur 3k. Jamie and Keeley go to a Pride parade with Phoebe and the team. Roy stays home and bakes them a rainbow cake, because he wants to be private about that kind of thing. It’s all very sweet! (No pun intended.)

There are so many quiet people Roy could have fallen in love with.

Triple blend - Dancey96 - Ted Lasso (TV) [Archive of Our Own] 7k. Holy SHIT, this is fantastic. An OT3 fic set right after Keeley kicks them out in S3. Roy and Jamie go to the kebab shop and talk about what she meant by “mixing their coffees.” The feelings and the way they take care of Jamie and just everything about it is so perfect. This could be canon.

Jamie licks the corner of his mouth, tongue poking out as he smirks at Roy. “You’d have sex with me, then?”

“Oh, for fuck’s sake,” Roy groans.

-

“That I was queer?”

Roy snaps his head up to look at Jamie. “You can’t say that.”

“Yes, I can,” Jamie says. “We’ve reclaimed it or whatever. That’s the word I use.”

-

“What are we gonna do with this one?” she asks.

“You tell me,” Roy offers, fingers scratching at Jamie’s scalp absently.

“You’re gonna make me come too soon, is what your gonna do,” Jamie manages to get out, teeth clenched under the strain of staying still.

we start and end as one - Chapter 1 - FlYiNgPiGlEtS - Ted Lasso (TV) [Archive of Our Own] 8k. An OT3 established relationship fic where Roy and Jamie get in a fight after Jamie is asked to come back on Love Conquers All (he says no, obviously). I love a good fight and make up fic! The last chapter with the convo between Roy and Jamie is so great.

the body of someone you love - goodmorninglovelies - Ted Lasso (TV) [Archive of Our Own] @goodmorninglovelies42 2k. OT3 h/c where Jamie gets rear-ended by Colin when leaving practice. He gets stitches and Roy is all pissy because he only knows how to express his worry as anger. Then he and Jamie fight a bit. Keeley draws Jamie a bath at home and Roy apologizes. It’s lovely!

-

Roy x Jamie:

so afraid that time will take it all from me - LikeAMovieIOnceSaw - Ted Lasso (TV) [Archive of Our Own] 10k. A really good fic about Roy being gay. Starts from when he was little through all the Ted Lasso seasons, basically. Kind of an AU/rewrite. The scene where he and Jamie finally kiss at his house is really, really sweet. Roy starts crying because he’s so overwhelmed and didn’t think he could allow himself to have this. Also some cute stuff with Phoebe like Uncle’s Day and Roy and her going to the England match. I’m always impressed by Roy fics because the man will forever remain a mystery to me.

let your hook be always cast - Literatus - Ted Lasso (TV) [Archive of Our Own]  @literatus-ao3 25k. The fic starts when Jamie joins the team. There is SO much good pining, from both of them, although Roy doesn’t get it yet. And there’s a good amount of angst because obviously Jamie’s loved him forever and Roy treats him like shit when he first gets to the team. Then Roy starts to have sex dreams about Jamie, and they’re hot. Jamie is also super cute with Phoebe. He’s her favorite player and there’s a cute scene where Roy introduces them, and Jamie suggests they play a little football.

“Her mum is bringing her around in thirty minutes, and you’re going to be nice and fucking charming and you’re not going to upset her. If you do, I’ll rearrange that pretty fucking face of yours.”

Jamie blinks at him slowly. “You think I’m pretty.”

absolutely definitely nota - Chapter 1 - talkfast - Ted Lasso (TV) [Archive of Our Own] 12k. Roy watches Lust Conquers All with the yoga mums. Sort of a speed run/AU of S2 and S3 where Roy hugs Jamie after his fight with his dad, and starts training him much sooner (I think).  [Stefon voice] This fic has everything - Magic pancakes, tunnel hugs, Jamie finding out Roy watched Lust Conquers All and being self-conscious about his nails being painted on the show, Jamie painting Roy’s nails, the yoga mums meeting Jamie then making Roy a cake about it, and a tandem bike gag gift!

The moment feels too gentle. Like Roy should set the volume to maximum and startle Jamie awake.

He doesn’t do that.

Instead he just fucking sits there until Jamie shifts and stretches out his limbs with a hum. Jamie blinks blearily at the ceiling and turns towards Roy without lifting his head from the couch cushion. When he sees that Roy is still there, his mouth curves into a sweet smile.

Roy’s heart stops for a second.

I could be violet sky - liesmyth - Ted Lasso (TV) [Archive of Our Own] @liesmyth 9k. Sadist Roy and accommodating Jamie written by one of the best authors out there! Jamie finds out Roy gets off on hurting him. Everything is consensual. In the end they talk more, and Roy admits he likes it even more because Jamie isn’t into pain. But Jamie likes it when he slaps him because it “means he’s his.” ROMANTIC BDSM MY BELOVED.

That’s kind of a trend—after Roy’s rough with him, he likes to hover, oddly solicitous, and Jamie’s not above taking shameless advantage. If Roy really wants to attend to his every need, then good for him—Jamie’s got plenty of those. He sends Roy running round the house to get him freshly squeezed orange juice or Jamie’s favorite pillow that he left in the bedroom, and Roy tells him to fuck off but he still does it, and always tilts down his chin to accept a kiss.

-

“I can be great all the time. Watch me.”

“I’m always watching you.” Roy’s voice is raw, frightfully open. “Leave me no other choice, do you?”

Roy Kent's Dramatic but Inevitable Jamie Tartt Induced Bisexual Awakening - chelicerata - Ted Lasso (TV) [Archive of Our Own]  8k. This is part 1 of a lovely set of fics. Roy kisses Jamie when they’re on the couch after he makes dinner for them, they fool around, and then Roy freaks out a bit and Jamie leaves. There is a little bit of angst here! Eventually Roy apologizes (after talking with Keeley about bi stuff), and then R & J have dinner and fool around but this time with feelings! Poster talk. Light D/s. All things that are good.

The thing about him and Jamie - the worst part, the absolute worst part, the part he thinks about when staring up at his ceiling at four in the fucking morning is that Roy doesn’t just want to fuck Jamie, and doesn’t just want to be his friend again. He wants to kiss his stupid pouting face and tell him what a good job he’s doing and fucking cuddle with him at night and sink his teeth in and never, ever, ever let him go.

-

“I’m not doing anything to fuck up my star player,” Roy says, aware that he’s being completely fucking mental about it.

“Your star player, am I?” Jamie looks immensely pleased and at least a little turned on.

Roy Kent's Long and Incredibly Fucking Irritating Coming Out Saga - chelicerata - Ted Lasso (TV) [Archive of Our Own] Part 2 of the above fic. 10k. Established relationship from Roy’s perspective. The process of coming out to various people – Phoebe, Georgie and Simon, etc. This fic is so gorgeous, and you already know I’m impressed by Roy meta!

“You’re… out?” The words feel awkwardly shaped in Roy’s mouth, like he’s mimicking lines that he’s only seen in films, lines that shouldn’t belong to him.

better than dreaming - Literatus - Ted Lasso (TV) [Archive of Our Own] 16k. Get-together fic. Jamie buys Roy a Garmin watch and it tells him every time Jamie jerks off (via his wrist). Lots of talk about how Jamie used to be obsessed with him (which I love!). And Roy telling Jamie he can keep a house key. And Roy wanting more than sex. And just!!! So many lines in this made me want to scream with happiness.

“Easy,” Jamie soothes, like he’s coaxing a skittish animal. “Bet you’ve not been wanking. Probably afraid you were going to think about me, right?”

Roy’s skin heats. “Shut up.”

“I think about you,” Jamie says, conversationally. “Have done for fucking years. That poster on my wall I told you about—we had a beautiful relationship.” His eyes are dark and lovely. “I had this fantasy ‘bout you.”

-

Roy could fall asleep like this, standing up and with Jamie in his arms. “I don’t yell at you.”

“Yeah, you do.” Jamie presses in closer, dipping his head so that his entire face is pressed into the curve of Roy’s neck. “Like it though. Makes me better. Feels like you care.”

There’s so much to unpack in that, too much for when there’s Phoebe in the other room. So he spreads his palm across Jamie’s back instead, letting it settle right between his shoulder blades while fighting the urge to dip the other beneath his jacket to touch skin.

where it goes from here - Literatus - Ted Lasso (TV) [Archive of Our Own] A 12k fic where Jamie gets hit in the butt with a ball, and that leads to them getting together. FULL of fanboy Jamie (he gets fucked in the trophy room). The dialog is really good, and the ending is so sweet. Roy tells Jamie he wants a proper relationship. This particular bit has been stuck in my head ever since:

“I’m…a lot. I don’t mean to be, but I’m…Keeley said I’m suffocating.”

“I’m not Keeley,” he says, relaxing, happiness spreading through him and making his toes tingle. “Fucking suffocate me, coach. More suffocation.”

run it up - immordelle - Ted Lasso (TV) [Archive of Our Own] 16k. Roy accidentally becomes Jamie’s sugar daddy. Or rather, he shows his love through gifts. This is one of those fics that I read basically having to stop and whisper-scream into my hands, it’s so good.

The cologne, the necklace, the way everyone at Richmond and every journalist at their press conferences know, without needing it to be said aloud, that Jamie is Roy’s pet project. He’s been Roy’s this whole time.

-

“Are we going shopping?” he asks. […]

“I’m taking you shopping,” he corrects, and Jamie’s eyes widen.

7 for Roy x Jamie. Also, I adore your writing! ❤ - do i dare disturb the universe (tumblr.com) A tumblr ficlet by @reinvent-and-believe where Georgie teases Roy for being like two years younger than her and she also teases Jamie about his crush on Roy when he was younger. Love at first sight! Pure fluff. <3

A Sure Thing - smashthatlikebutton - Ted Lasso (TV) [Archive of Our Own] 14k. Jamie meets the yoga mums. Fake dating, kind of. I usually don’t like fake dating that much, but I read this and OH BOY I’m so glad I did! Roy brings Jamie to yoga night, and when the ladies assume they’re together, neither Roy nor Jamie corrects them. When Roy calls Jamie “love,” … I will NEVER RECOVER. This has the feel of a romance novel in the best way, I don’t know how else to describe it.

“Uh, no thanks,” Jamie says, looking at Roy for permission first. As though Roy would let him drink on this diet, let alone in the run-up to the Everton match. Christine raises her eyebrows at the two of them, like ”I didn’t know the two of you were like that.” Roy is incredibly surprised when Jamie flushes all over, “It’s not— he’s my— it’s part of my training.”

-

Jamie stares at him. “You’re nothing like him, you know that, right? You’re not an arsehole. Well, you are, but not in that way. You’re nice, even. In your own way.” 

Roy isn’t choked up. He is not going to cry. He stares straight ahead of him and blinks rapidly.

a little of what's going on - Literatus - Ted Lasso (TV) [Archive of Our Own]  A 10k fic where Roy convinces Jamie to do coke at Ted’s going away party. The hotness and the sweetness are truly cranked up to 11 here.

“Oi,” Jamie laughs. “How d’you flirt then? Is it all—I’m Roy Kent, fuck me?” “Let’s find out,” he says, lowering his voice and leaning closer. Jamie freezes, eyes wide as Roy’s voice turns into a velvet rumble. “I’m Roy Kent, fuck me.” Jamie whimpers. “You prick.”

-

“You’re fucking important to me. Muppet.”

Jamie huffs a laugh, hands fluttering light and hopeful against Roy’s side. “You love the Muppets.”

I love you, Roy thinks, but he’s not going to put that out there. Not now.

suffering, the optional pain - Literatus - Ted Lasso (TV) [Archive of Our Own] 10k. Fuuucking Christ, I loved this one. This one might not be for everyone because it isn’t that fluffy, but ohhh boy, if it’s your thing it’ll hit just right. I love a fight within an established relationship, and this one doesn’t shy away from Roy being a bastard and really snapping at everyone. Roy fucks up his knee when playing with Phoebe and gets real pissed about it. Treats everyone like shit for days. Yells at a player, snaps at Phoebe when she runs into him and it hurts his knee again. Jamie has to set him straight. Bottom!Roy, D/s, very mild dub-con.

“I deserve a fucking medal for putting up with you. Fucking hard work, you are. Making everyone walk on eggshells around you. It’s rude, is what it is. What the fuck am I going to do with you, huh?”

-

Gen:

Something to be said - macaronicism - Ted Lasso (TV) [Archive of Our Own] 6k. A really great fic from 2021 that deals with post-Man City stuff. Jamie’s nervous to go back to practice and face the guys, but he does and it’s all fine. He talks to Sam and Ted and finally Roy. It’s all very sweet and protective and really well done. This needed to happen in canon!

Lemons and Lavender - LivingProof - Ted Lasso (TV) [Archive of Our Own] 8k. A Jamie h/c fic from 2021. He ends up in the hospital and at first his dad shows up and is a piece of shit, then Roy and Ted show up and save the day. It’s SO precious. It’s technically gen, but it could be read as pre-slash. The writing is fantastic. Fuzzy Jamie written in a believable way.

Letting go, holding on - Chapter 1 - macaronicism - Ted Lasso (TV) [Archive of Our Own] 8k. Another amazing h/c story that is technically platonic. Set after the finale. Roy apologizes to Jamie about the beer date thing being about Keeley. Then finds out Jamie is planning on talking to his dad, and tells him he’s against it. Lots of emotional h/c!  Jamie stays the night at Roy’s in the spare room and gets some good sleep, and Roy gets Ted to come over the next day and talk to Jamie more about his dad, etc. <3

[oh-surprise-its-me]

Omg okay I got a comment saying I should write the team’s reaction to Roy x Jamie mating.

Tw! Alpha/beta/omega dynamics (non traditional??) ((if I understand the traditional correctly??))

-

When Jamie walked into the locker room he basically dances in. It had been a week since he has seen the guys. New mating and all that. There’s protocols in place that even he can admit are necessary.

Colin is drinking out of a bottle when he catches sight of Jamie. He chokes. Isaac turns and smacks him on the back. The room goes quiet.

It’s Dani who speaks first. “Jamie! You’ve got a bite! Who do we get to threaten!”

Jamie laughs. He rubs a hand over the bite. “No one guys. He’s great. Don’t want any threats thrown his way.”

Colin stares at Jamie. “He?”

“Yeah mate figured you would’ve figured that out by now.”

Colin pulls Jamie into a hug. The smaller alpha always smells nice. “Mate I knew about a crush you have but this is a whole different level.” Jamie returns the hug. Suddenly he’s surrounded by the guys.

He’s passed from one hug to another. Almost everyone brushes a scent mark over his arm. A casual friend way to mark.

Jamie hears Roy come in. They’re still questioning him so thoroughly that he doesn’t really pay his mate any extra attention then a smile and wave. He gets a smile in return.

“How big is his cock!”

There’s a smack and Roy’s ears go a bit red.

Sam makes a sound of realization.

Jamie points at him. “No don’t.” Jamie smiles the entire time to make sure Sam knows it’s okay to say it.

Sam hops up on the bench and claps his hands. The beta always did have a flair for drama. “I know who Jamie’s mate is!”

There’s a commotion from everyone. They all turn to look at Sam.

Jamie takes the opportunity to slip back to Roy. He knows where this is going.

“Jamie Tartt. You mated…”

“Come on hurry up we wanna throw them a party!”

“Yeah! We gotta threaten him!”

“Drum roll please!”

The guys of course do it. Sam claps his hands together again and points.

“Roy Kent!”

Everyone’s heads whip around. They’re all staring at Roy and Jamie holding hands. The fresh bites on both of their necks.

The noise erupts around them. Cheers and money gets passed back and forth. They refuse to train on the bias that they have to throw a party and need time to plan.

Everyone races off to gather things. Isaac sticks behind with Dani. He points at Roy. “Don’t gotta say don’t hurt him do I?” Dani nods. “He was ours first. He always will have our support.”

Roy gives a small smile. “No worries. I’ll take care of him as long as he’ll let me. Forever is my plan.”

Jamie bounces up and presses a kiss to Roy’s cheek. “Also Keeley beat the rest of you alpha’s to the threats! Didn’t know she was so creative!”

Will and Jan Maas nod from where they’re leaned. The two omegas know that Jamie can take care of himself. They saw him fuck people up. Know what he’s capable of. But also know Roy let Jamie bite him. It might be 2023 but a lot of alphas don’t let omegas bite them for tradition sake.

They know it’ll be fine. They could tell it was meant to be.

-

Beard leans against the door and waits until everyone has left. He catches the only two still there. “Sign these.”

Roy blinks at him. “How did you fucking make these so fast?” Beard shakes his head. “I already had them obviously.” Jamie stares at him. “You’re fucking with us.” “Nope. Sign here.”

They sign.

Beard snaps the folder closed. “Great! Now you’re fully legal at the club. Says the relationship was not a power play. Y’all are good now. But expect an insane mating gift from Jane and I.”

He turns and walks away.

Jamie leans against Roy and tucks his head under his chin. “Think they’ll give us sex things?” Roy shudders. “Fuck I hope not. I think Jane would go a bit farther then either of us want.”

“You’re an incredible mate. Love you Roy.”

Roy grins down at Jamie. It’s only a smile he sees. “So are you. Love you more baby.”

They walk out holding hands.

They’re always going to hold hands.

—

“Roy can I please post an Instagram to tell the world? Pleasseeee.” - “Goddamn it fine but use one where we’ve got clothes on.” - “Whoops! Too late!” - “I’m going to fucking ruin you.” - “oh please do. Do the thing with your tongue!”- “this thing?”

—

It quickly becomes one of the most liked photos. They give an exclusive interview with Trent. Said they wouldn’t talk to anyone else. He knows the limits. He truly wouldn’t dare to ask about kids. Knows how the two of them work.

—

The marriage is a highly photographed event. People absolutely love that Jamie wore white while Roy wore all black. Their guests in a rainbow of colors. It’s one of the most talked about events that year.

[freakofnerdsher]

I just found out that Ted Lasso is apparently getting a new season??? And I decided that I have the best way for them to have enough conflict for a plot that doesn’t completely trash all the in-universe progress the team has already made

At the end of the season three finale, Keeley goes to Rebecca with the idea of creating a Richmond women’s team

So! Ted’s going to be all sad in Kansas because he misses his dream job even though he absolutely loves being back home with his family. (Whether he and Michelle are back together or not, I literally do not give a shit. They were in a good enough place at the end of s3, and we saw enough annoyance with Jake that I think they could make them getting back together work. He grew in ways that were working on things she had said bothered her the first time around.) blah blah blah, Ted decides he’s going to at least reach out to Rebecca and see if there’s any way for him to beg for his job back, and all three of them move to London. This will give some personal life conflicts for the new season as Henry and Michelle acclimate to a new country.

I don’t know how long of a time jump there’s going to be, but the women’s team exists already at this point and has played at least one season and isn’t doing great. New character women’s coach is either going to quit/get fired or just be in desperate need of help. Thats where Ted comes in! Voila, new coaching position, he’s back as an underdog, and Roy doesn’t need to get ousted as the Men’s coach. They’re still doing their thing. The men’s team is either going to be the women’s team’s collective big brothers, OR there’s going to be some sort of epic in house rivalry between the men’s and women’s teams.

From there there’s so many options! If the existing women’s coach stays on and they just add Ted, they’re going to get in each other’s way too much at the beginning and have to work with each other cohesively. If the existing women’s coach gets fired/quits, then Ted gets to start from scratch and realize that the things that worked with one team won’t necessarily work with this one and he will continue to learn different strategies and general football knowledge. In that scenario I think they’d pull Beard over from the men’s team and let Roy and Nate fumble a bit without any sort of mediator like they’re used to. (More conflict to explore in the plot!)

And then one thing I’d love for them to do but I know is very much a chance in hell is to get Roy/Jamie/Keeley together in a throuple. Whether that means Keeley dates both of them but Roy and Jamie don’t date each other or all three actively dating each other they had the set up for it and dropped it at the last second. If they DO have Roy and Jamie dating each other in any capacity, that could be another way to get Ted back! In this scenario there would be pushback about them dating while also being employer/employee (is that the case for a coach and player at a professional level? The coach isn’t the one employing them technically but there’s a power imbalance that would work for the sake of my idea) and so either Jamie needs to go to another team (no way) or Roy needs to leave and they put Roy to coach the women’s team!! Ted can come in back to the men’s team, Roy stays at Richmond but without the conflict of having power over Jamie in the workplace

[its-time-to-write]

ugggghhh I love your writing! your style and just voice are outstanding!

could you write something with Jamie and a professional footballer (female reader) who are dating (but no one knows) and they are doing a PR thing for England or some ad campaign? And they have to do silly things and show how much they know about each other (like they have known each other since they were in school and have been friends for a while) but then Keeley catches on or something. Sorry if this doesn't make sense, but essentially it is Jamie and a professional footballer (female reader) relationship, thank you! <3

✌️😗

you’re a mansion with a view

There’s an insistent knocking on the door. It’s who-the-fuck-knows o’clock Jamie has been inside all day, lights off and dealing with a wicked hangover. The pounding on the door syncs up with the pounding in his head, and he Jamie shuffles to open it so the person on the other side can shut up.

He opens it to find you, mid-knock.

“Put a shirt on, Tartt,” you say as you push past him, grocery bag in hand. Jamie looks down. He’s just in his trousers, and for once he’s grateful that it isn’t the other way around.

“Fucking hell, Killer,” he groans. “Shouldn’t you be at training?”

You shake your head, ignoring the fact that he used your football nickname as opposed to your actual name. “Nope. It’s five. Training’s done for the day.”

Jamie follows you to his kitchen. Why you’re walking around like you own the place, he has no idea.

“What the fuck are you doing here?” he asks. “And how do you know where all my stuff is?”

You tap your head. “Our houses have the same layout. I can see yours from across the street, and noticed you haven’t been out in like, a week. That’s a record for you.”

Jamie rubs his face. “Fucking hell,” he says again. “So why are you here?”

You turn around from the fridge. “Figured you haven’t had a decent meal besides vanilla vodka.” You make a face. “Disgusting. Just because you’re not playing football doesn’t mean you can neglect nutrition, Tartt.”

“I ain’t neglecting my nutrition,” he replies. “Just…” he trails off.

You smirk. “Uh huh, that’s what I thought. The great Jamie Tartt, drowning his sorrows in vanilla vodka and becoming a couch potato. You haven’t even had any women ‘round to numb the sting. That’s new.”

You flip on a light to which Jamie groans. You flip it off. “So are you going to put on a shirt, or..?”

“Killer,” Jamie says for the third time, “the fuck are you doing in my house?”

You pretend to be digging in the grocery bag so you don’t have to look at his face.

“Saw your interview,” you reply as nonchalantly as possible. “Thought you might need someone to make sure you haven’t, I don’t know, died.”

Jamie knocks his head against the wall. “Has everyone fucking seen that?” 

You shrug. “Personally, I liked it a lot better than your season of Lust Conquers All. Lot more feeling in that one interview than the whole show, if you ask me.”

“So you saw that,” Jamie comments. This is far too many words for the headache he has.

“Yup.” 

“And you’re still here.”

“Uh huh.”

Jamie is at a loss for words. Everyone else has left him because of that fucking tv show, where he acted like the worst version of himself and didn’t even fucking win.

Doesn’t make sense that you, a midfielder from some women’s FC, would be in his house pulling out real food and making sure he’s alright.

For a moment, Jamie feels bad that he can’t remember what team you play for.

He thinks that this goes beyond neighborly duties. Sure, you live across the street from him and you’ve seen each other at various events, but this is probably the first real conversation you’ve ever had. He has no idea what to make of it.

He asks, “Why do you care?” then immediately cringes at the harsh tone of his voice.

You slam the fridge door harder than you anticipate, making you both jump.

“Because,” you say, then you sigh. 

“Footballer life off the pitch sucks sometimes. I wish someone had checked on me.”

“I ain’t a footballer,” Jamie points out, vaguely remembering something about your name in some less-than-friendly headline.

You roll your eyes. “Whatever you say, Tartt.”

—

Five months later, you’re at some random football pitch in your full kit and far more makeup than you’d wear to a match. 

Some magazine is doing some profile on different footballers, taking photos with different men and women from all kinds of teams together. You’re not sure why you, a midfielder, are here with Tartt, a striker.

You’re not complaining.

“Oi, Tartt,” you call, “how does it feel to be scored on by a girl?”

(The photographer wanted some action shots of you and Jamie playing 1 v 1.)

Jamie scoffs. “My masculinity ain’t fragile, Killer. Just lucky you didn’t break any of my bones.” He says the words carefully, as if they’re unfamiliar to his tongue and he wants to get them just right.

“You know I have a name, right?” you ask, breathing hard. You’ve dribbled the ball back to Jamie and are standing practically forehead to forehead. “Like, a real actual name that you’re allowed to use?”

Jamie grins and drops his voice to a near-whisper, “Oh I know how to use your name, love.”

You shiver, trapped in his gaze for a minute. 

The spell is broken as the photographer shouts, “Alright loves, let’s stage some of you two together.”

You both turn to jog to the sidelines, where she begins posing you. 

“Wow,” she remarks, “you two have great chemistry. Usually I have to tell you footballers to act like you like each other.”

Jamie grins and knocks his shoulder into yours. “Hear that, Killer?” he asks, “She thinks we have good chemistry.”

You roll your eyes and feign annoyance. “Be professional, Tartt.”

The photographer asks, “How long have you known each other?”

You and Jamie say, “Two years,” in perfect unison.

“My goodness,” she laughs, “you two are just in sync today! How’d you meet?” You say, “we’re neighbors,” at the same time Jamie says, “at a party.”

You both look at each other. “We met because we live across the street from each other,” you say.

Jamie shakes his head, “No, we met a week before you moved in at a party.”

“What party?” you ask. “Pretty sure I would’ve remembered meeting you.”

“Nah,” Jamie replies, “You were too busy getting sloshed with your teammates while they all hit on Keeley.” 

You scrunch your nose. “Was I sloshed?”

“Yep,” Jamie says. “Properly. It was the end of the season, so makes sense.”

“Weird,” you reply. “My first memory of you is when you tried to break into my house because you were too busy snogging this model to figure out you were on the wrong side of the street.”

“Oi, it could happen to anyone!” Jamie says defensively.

“Sure,” you laugh. “Happens to me all the time.”

You reach out to steal the football that’s tucked under Jamie’s arm, but he’s too quick for you. 

“Give it!” you say, still laughing.

He holds it above your head. “Give what?” he asks innocently. “Don’t know what you’re talking about.”

You’re jumping and trying to pull his arm down to where you can reach and are almost successful when he tosses it to his other hand.

“No fair!” you cry, “You’re taller than me!”

Jamie grins. “Oh, you want the football then? Maybe try asking nicely.”

You still. “Jamie,” you begin, “could you please give me the football?”

He’s still holding it high above you as he considers. “Hm.” He pretends to think for a moment. “No.” He breaks away from you and kicks it into the goal across the field.

“You can have it now,” he says when he returns. You’re trying so hard to be mad at him, but he has that silly little grin he gets when he’s trying to make you laugh and you just can’t fake a frown.

“Screw you, Tartt,” you laugh.

Jamie raises an eyebrow and opens his mouth to reply when he’s cut off by the photographer.

“You two get along really well,” she says. “I think you’d be cute together.”

You blush and Jamie says, “I fucking hope so. She’s my girlfriend. Oi, d’you want a picture of us kissing?”

“No she doesn’t,” you say.

“Yes she does,” Jamie says. “We’re fucking adorable, babe. Football’s power couple. Behind Posh and Becks, of course,” he says as an afterthought. 

“Fine,” you say, “One. Then I’m getting that football and your ass is grass, Tartt.”

Jamie grins. “Fine by me, love.”

He leans in to kiss you but you pull away at the last second, sprinting toward the football still under the goalposts. Did he really think you were going to play fair?

[abubblingcandle]

Words: brace, tired, hotel and/or kitchen

Thank you love!!! These asks have been amazing in keeping me motivated and keeping my queue full :)

Brace - from Ch17 of The Richmond Job

“How you doing there Sully?” Ted’s voice took over from Beard as Jamie was in the zone. This was, god Jamie had never felt so alive. He had a bedsheet as a projector background, his laptop running a flight simulator through the Jet2 plane systems and a PS5 controller in hand … and he was flying a plane. He was going to land a fucking plane using computers. Well landing might be a strong word for it but it was going to end up on the ground in one piece. And he did that. Jamie fucking Tartt was going to save this flight and his team. No one would ever know but he would know. He would always know. Never make anything of himself, that was what his dad always said. “You’re made for this kid. Nothing more than a blunt instrument for others to use.” Well fuck that. Jamie Tartt was a fucking pilot. “You might want to brace for impact Ted. You’re coming in hot,” Jamie warned, glad that no one else could see the manic grin on his face.

Tired - Augusnippets Day 18 (It Worked Too Well)

“Jamie? What’s going on?” Keeley was immediately there, squatting down at Jamie’s bedside with a comforting hand on his hip rubbing little circles. Which was exactly what he knew was going to happen, and exactly what he didn’t want to happen. “Just tired,” Jamie groaned, throwing one hand over his eyes so he didn’t have to look at Keeley’s disappointed expression. “Can I go home?” “We need to wait for the doctors. So we can have this conversation now. Why the fuck were none of us called?” Roy growled. “Roy,” Keeley scolded, but Jamie could tell her heart wasn’t in it and she wanted to know as well. “I’m fine it’s just some bruising,” Jamie muttered. No one listened. He knew no one would listen.

Hotel - from Ch6 of A Treatment Room Doors Moment

“I should try and get a hotel,” Roy sighed when the plinky plonky end credits music started to play in the season finale. It was the middle of the night and Jamie had training the next morning. “Fuck that,” Jamie huffed, stretching like a cat in a sunbeam as he untangled himself from the blanket and pillow pile. “It’s late, we’re both pissed. I’ve got like three spare rooms. Just stay here,” Jamie rolled his eyes. “I shouldn’t,” Roy shook his head, rolling to his feet and groaning as his knee spasmed. “Why? Why shouldn’t you? Do you like murder people in your sleep or something because if that is the case lad then I think you should talk to someone about that,” Jamie scoffed crinkling his nose. “Shut up,” Roy growled, “I shouldn’t put you out.” He hadn’t warned Jamie. He hadn’t thought about anything apart from making sure the lad wasn’t going to do anything stupid. It felt wrong to stay. “I have cleaners,” Jamie shrugged. “Come on Roy. I’ll even let you buy me breakfast?”

Kitchen - from Ch2 of God Forbid You Leave Me

“How can I help?” Jamie was lingering nervously in the doorway to the kitchen. Sir Arthur was weaving in and out of Jamie’s legs only pausing whenever Jamie’s hand crept down and scratched at his ruff. Guess it wasn’t only the adult Higgins’ who had adopted their new lodger. “Oh there’s no need Jamie. I’ve got it all under control here,” Higgins smiled, tapping the wooden spoon on the side of the pan where the mince was cooking. “Oh,” Jamie muttered, his shoulders slumping and hand migrating back to patting the dog. Higgins stopped and turned to properly take Jamie in. He was tired, clearly. His hair was mess where it had been vaguely patted down after his sleep and he was still curled in on himself. He must want to just rest yet he was stood in the doorway offering. Higgins wanted to make it clear that Jamie didn’t need to be useful to stay here. But maybe today Jamie just needed to be useful. “But more hands are always better. Or instead you could help entertain the boys instead, it would be a great help to keep them out from underfoot?” Higgins suggested.

[puppypeter]

You know I love possessive/jealous/growly guard dog Roy as much as the next gal, but I think we're all forgetting the potential of rabid-super-fan-who's-literally-living-out-his-childhood-fantasy-and-will-therefore-stop-at-NOTHING-to-protect-it Jamie.

And like, let us not forget!! Roy is still ROY FUCKING KENT!!! He may be retired from footbal but I REFUSE to believe that there aren't still ppl who are gagging for a piece of THAT action.

Picture this: a new transfer arrives at Richmond. Great!! Seems like a cool guy!!! A bit on the younger side, a bit naive, and he is clearly absolutely star struck at being coached by THE Roy Kent. He's the flustered, blushy, wide-eyed type of fan, almost too shy to speak to Roy directly who practically swoons every time Roy gives him PERSONAL advice. And PRAISE??? This kid is panting for it, bruh. Totaaaall teachers pet.

And while Roy's not encouraging anything, he's also not blind. The kids crush is VERY obvious, and Roy's first instinct is to shut that shit down fast, but he learned his lesson about being a grumpy twat asshole to people who idolise him and he doesn't wanna hurt the kids feelings, especially since he's the Head Coach now, so he just politely ignores it.

Cut to Jamie fucking Kubrick Staring this fresh young thing down in the locker room, literally seconds away from ripping the fucking lockers off the walls because who the actual fuck does this little baby slut brat think he is???!!!! Drooling over Roy when it is so fucking obvious that Roy is HIS!!!! The spoiled only child / bratty sub rise up within Jamie and cannot be contained. The locker room turns into a crossover between Mean Girls and a dog fighting ring.

Best part about this idea is it can either be established!RoyJamie OR this new threat could be the instigating factor Jamie needs to mark his territory and jump Roy's bones.

I can totally picture Jamie sweetly inviting the new kid out to go clubbing as a welcome to the team type thing,,, only to sit in Roy's lap, practically performing a fucking floor show the entire time they're ther, smirking at the gobsmacked and bitterly envious newbies face every chance he gets because 'You. Fucking. WISH.'

(Roy would obviously drag Jamie home and punish him for being a smug fucking brat and a needy little cock tease, but it is SO worth it to flounce into training the next day and show off all the bruises Roy left on him, just to reaaaallly rub salt in the wound. Sorry new kid, the only one living out a wattpad y/n celebrity self-insert fanfic is JAMIE. Eat your fucking heart out ❤️)

uuuuuhhh I love this idea

I think a lot of jealousy in royjamie fic is based around keeley like in canon vs other external threats

So I absolutely love a new "puppy" coming in, Jamie not being considered one anymore (he's not the youngest but close) and now there is a new fresh faced talented player everyone welcomes and pays more attention to and he is just so jealous

And he thinks he is retreating to being old angry bitchy jamie but then he realises it has very little to do with football. He is happy the team has a new talented striker, especially now that that is not his focus with total football. And that all the jealousy and these feelings he has towards the new kid are entirely because of roy.

And roy has been really nice, trying to be a good coach and be more-lasso and welcoming. Him and jamie had to stop the 4am sessions because he has so much more to do and he trusts jamie he can do it by himself and he's matured so much. VS jamie feels like he's being left behind / maybe roy doesn't care about me anymore and he can't see that actually roy just has so much confidence in him and pretty much considers him equal in terms of footie now (there's a parallel to ted and nate there)

But jamie starts acting all bratty and pricklish until he snaps and kisses him and then it all makes sense

And roy admits he 100% does not have eyes for an 18 year old because he's just so horny for jamie having become so confident (the good kind) and competent and efficient and he gets a boner just by seeing him play lmao

[ofstarsandvibranium]

Unexpectedly Yours: Part 14 (Final)

Fandom: Ted Lasso (Regency AU)

Pairing: Roy Kent x F!Reader

Summary: Lord Roy Kent still has yet to marry. He hates the notion that marriage is a way to ensure your status in society. You have delayed your debut to society for years because of the same idea. So what happens when two people who hate the idea of marriage are constantly drawn to each other?

Series Masterlist

Today is the day. Your wedding day. Quite honestly, you didn't think this day would be here so soon. You delayed your debut for so long and you were sure you weren't going to be married any time soon. Now, not only are you to be married today, but you're marrying a man who infuriated you in the beginning. A man who frustrated you, still does, but you came to love him and found him endearing, selfless, charming, and kind.

Despite that, you're still nervous.

Everyone is waiting for you. Roy and the bishop are at the altar, both of your families are standing on their respective sides, talking amongst themselves. You're just outside the doors your father watching as you're pacing back and forth.

"Darling, I must apologize, but I don't understand why you're nervous. You said you love him, yes?"

"Yea, I do, it's just...will I make a good viscountess? I know mama's done her best to make sure I know the duties I need to fulfill it's just...what if I'm terrible at it?"

Before your father could respond, Keeley peeks her head out, "Everything all right out here?"

"Wedding jitters, I'm afraid, Keeley," your father responds.

She nods in understanding, stepping out and gripping your hand that isn't clutching the bouquet, "It's alright. I felt the same before I married Jamie. You'll be fine. If you trip or anything, just say the word and Jamie and I will distract them all."

You can't help but snort at whatever nonsense your two friends might have come up with, "Thank you, Keels. I'll be fine."

"Maybe...do you want me to get Roy for you?"

"It's bad luck for-"

"You can stay on this side and he'll stand on the other. The door will be slightly open so you can hear each other."

You nod and Keeley quickly excuses herself to get your soon-to-be husband. Your father steps away to speak with the coachman to give you two some privacy.

"You okay?" you hear Roy's gruff voice through the crack in the door. His hand peeks out and you immediately grab it, "Yes. Just nerves."

"That so?"

"I know you said I would be a great viscountess...but I'm still not sure..you truly want to marry me?"

"Yes. Of course, I do. And you?" you don't see him, but you can tell he looks worried.

"Absolutely," you reply in a whisper.

"Then nothing else matters. Whatever you need help with, I'm there for you as well as Clara. You're not alone in this, Y/N. You'll never be alone in this." Your hand raises as he brings it to his lips and kisses it. You don't see it, but you feel it and it brings you a smile to your face.

"I'll see you shortly?" he asks.

You take a deep breath, "Yes. I'll catch my breath for a moment and be right now."

"Alright...I love you," he says earnestly.

You bite your lip in a grin and reply back, "I love you too."

You hear his steps fade as he walks further up the aisle and back to the altar. Your father joins your side and smiles, "Ready?" he offers his arm to you.

You take a deep breath and loop your arm around his, "Ready."

__________________________

While the wedding itself was a small affair, the luncheon was anything but. All of Richmond's society had come to see you and Roy, the viscount and his new viscountess.

As you two mingled, walking around the gardens of Roy's home, your hand never unraveled from one another's. You kept each other close as friends, family, and others greet you and give you your wishes.

It was odd to hear people now address you as "my lady", but you soon had to get used to it.

Once the wedding cake was cut and guests shovel the sweet dessert into their mouths, you and Roy allow yourselves to rest for a bit on a bench underneath a nearby tree. You lean your head against his shoulder after he wraps his arm around you.

"You know, if someone told me months ago, I would be marrying you, I would've had a doctor check on them."

Roy snorts, "I know what you mean."

You sigh, "We won't end up like the duke and duchess, right? You'll still love me even after I'm old and grey?"

"As long as you continue to love me when I'm a grumpy old geezer."

You pull back slightly to smirk at him, "You're like that now."

Roy rolls his eyes, "You're infuriating."

"But you love me all the same."

He looks back at you with loving eyes, "I do." He leans in, pressing a kiss to your lips. You lean more in to further the kiss, but you hear someone clear your throat and you immediately break apart.

You look to see Cece and Phoebe standing there with huge smiles on your face, "We told you you'd get married and live happily ever after!" Cece exclaims with joy.

You chuckle, "Yes, you young ladies were right."

"I hope I find someone who loves me as much as Uncle Roy loves you, Aunt Y/N!"

Roy groans, "God help me when that day comes."

You snicker and pat your husband's leg, "You still have time, love," you proceed to stand and gather your cousin and niece's hands in yours, "Now, how about a dance?" you look over your shoulder, "Roy?"

"I'll be with you in a bit," he waves at the three of you and watches as you and the two girls head to the dance floor.

Clara then occupies your spot, "Look at you, all lovestruck and happy. Never thought I'd see the day."

"Fuck off," Roy replies with a grunt, but a hint of a smile on his face.

His sister looks out onto the dancefloor, and smiles as you dance with her daughter and your cousin, "I told you, you deserve love and happiness."

"Suppose you're right, but I know that woman won't make things easy for me."

Clara laughs, "She never made things easy for you."

"Yes, but that's why I love her," he watches you move along the dance floor, your laugh is all he can hear above the music. He loves you. Truly. Deep within his soul, he firmly he believes, he was always, and, unexpectedly, yours.

[lunar-years]

THESE TAGS YES.

i loooove jamiekeeley (whichever way u wanna read that) however i think jamie was firmly over her in a romantic way by then. also re roy i just think of that one post like “everything is about football except for jamie except jamie is actually about keeley. but keeley is also about jamie so.”

and then we kinda cement royjamie’s relationship as positive with roy forgiving jamie and by the end 100% they are friends. roy getting close to jamie and being vulnerable with him and then saying he’s proud of him only to follow with “btw back off from keeley”….. [jamie voice] ok! awesome! i feel so great about myself and whatever we have going on. which is fucking nothing. apparently. cuz u were just buttering me up

this is so poorly written and nothing no one hasn’t already said. i just needed to rant -_- and then roy comes out looking like the bad guy but he’s literally not. he’s just repressed & even with keeley being the one to choose she’s still just a prop. which ok tbf with rj i can see how that happens ngl,, but that doesn’t mean i have to like it LOL

Me forced to look at my own spelling /grammar errors because its so annoying to add tags on this damn tumblr app 🫣 *roy springS

Anyway YEAH!! The only thing I don’t agree with you about is that I do very much think Jamie is still in love with Keeley romantically in the finale and I think he was being genuine to Roy when he told him as such. I just also think he’s in love Roy!

To me that scene is entirely about royjamie rather than keeley at its core. The whole reason Roy arranges it is because he loves keeley and wants to get back with her but he also loves Jamie (and probably doesn’t realize it yet, but DOES know he can’t stand the thought of Jamie not being in his life). he’s downright terrified being with keeley is going to change his relationship with Jamie and he quite essentially Can’t Deal With That. So he’s trying to preemptively tell Jamie how it’s going to be, because it NEEDS to be that way in Roys head since he wants to have both Keeley AND jamie as part of his life and this is the only way he can see himself getting that. He’s not intentionally trying to hurt Jamie (well, up until Jamie rightfully pushes back and Roy gets egotistical and pissy about it!). I think he really thinks he’s doing the right thing and being the bigger person by asking Jamie to back off?? Which is obviously so absurd and misguided but also so very Roy. Of course it doesn’t go well because he’s a repressed AND entitled asshole about it and thereby hurts Jamie in the process. But like. I think the intentions were warped but coming from a good place?

Meanwhile from Jamie’s POV he thought he was having literally the best day of his life, where crush #1 Keeley agreed (and was extremely excited about) going to Brazil with him AND crush #2 Roy finally asked him to hang out outside of training!! On possibly a date!!! And then he’s telling Jamie he’s PROUD of him, which is like, literally what Jamie has been waiting to hear from him!! Jamie must fully think he’s dreaming because DAMN. But then Roy (seemingly randomly) pivots to talking about Keeley and acting like his relationship with her was so much more Important and Real than Jamie’s (which. It wasn’t. Not in Jamie’s mind, certainly). I think Jamie is SO hurt because he thought he and Roy were really friends on the verge of more and then Roy instead decided to like. Be a giant dick again! Out of nowhere! So Jamie says what he says to hurt him back just as much.

It’s about keeley but it’s not about keeley, if you will. And the lines are all crossed.

Which is to say, I don’t hate that scene as much as most people. I think it actually exemplifies (in the messiest way imaginable) how deeply royjamie care about each other and how goddamn terrible they are at successfully communicating it to each other, let alone learning how to navigate those feelings together.

I do hate that Keeley lacks onscreen agency in her big “choice,” because there really IS no choice with royjamie behaving like that (though I think she’d have turned them both down regardless). And her telling them as much happens offscreen with no follow up!! Which sucks!!