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amneris21 · 2 years ago

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The Wedding Date

Summary: It’s been years since Jay Castillo had been home for the holidays. When his sisters decide to have her wedding on New Year’s Eve Jay finds himself in a strange position. He had told his family he was dating someone, the only problem was that someone didn’t know they were ‘in a relationship’ yet. Jay convinces you to go along with it and be his fake girlfriend and his wedding date. Words: A little over 11,000 A/N: My first time writing for Jay, I took his entire backstory and made it my own as from watching his very short cameo role really didn’t give us much to go on. As always thanks to @heythere-mel for always listening to my randomness and reading half-written paragraphs. I love you!!!

**Just like ao3, “creator chooses not to use warnings.” If you click Keep Reading, that means you agree that you’re the age to handle mature themes. Also by clicking Keep Reading, you understand warnings may not be complete in order to avoid spoilers for the story. **

It was his favorite place to go after work. He’d grab a beer after a long day, talking to you made things better. Owning a business was hard and you weren’t a therapist but you were one of the few people who listened to him when he just needed someone to talk to. But then again, you were a bartender and it was basically part of your job description. Unlicensed Therapist you always joked. A lot had changed in his life over the last few years, a failed marriage being one of them. He had moved to a new city, somewhere to run away from his past. He wanted to start over. Sure, he had casually dated a few women over those few years, but nothing serious he was afraid of getting his heart broken again. You, however, became a friend. Someone he could trust.

The weather was getting colder, the bar had slowed some. Everyone, returning home for the holidays, and Jay’s business was slowing down too. The little bell on the door chimes as he pushes the door open. You were at the sink cleaning a few remaining glasses, you didn’t even need to look up to know exactly who was walking in, he showed up everyday at the same time like clock work.

“Hey Jay!” you shout “the usual?”

“Make it a double” he says, falling into the bar chair head falling to his hands

“You ok?” you set the a double shot of whiskey in front of him

He doesn’t respond. Jay was usually in a good mood for the time you had known him. He would always smile when he saw you, a smile that literally melted your heart. It was the kind of smile that your world could be falling apart all around you. But he would look at you, with those puppy dog brown eyes and smile and everything would be alright. He was handsome, there was no denying it, his short brown hair slightly longer now. He hasn’t had a haircut since you met him, you start to think of how soft it might be, or the sounds he’ll make if you gently pull on them.

He pulls an envelope from his coat pocket, his name written in elegant handwriting. He takes a deep sigh and downs the glass of whiskey, sliding the envelope towards you. You take it from him, you can hear him mumble the words, open it and you do.

“You and your guest are cordially invited to the wedding of Jennifer Castillo and David Garcia on December 31 in Sacramento, California. Please join us as we ring in the new year with a wedding no one will forget” you say “…a bit strange to get married on New Years Eve, but I mean ok. Why are you showing this to me?”

“My sister’s wedding” he sighs his finger tracing the outline of the rim of the glass

“Ok…” you sound a bit confused

“I was told to bring my girlfriend” he looks up at you

“I don’t see a problem here, I mean if you ask her nicely she’d probably go” you take the glass from him

“That’s the problem…I don’t have one. They just think I do. I made her up so they’d leave me alone”

“You could tell them she has other plans or something with her family” you set a glass of water in front of him.

There’s a long pause, and he stares at the water glass in front of him. You start to wash a few dishes from earlier guests. Letting him sit in his thoughts, you’ve learned over time that when he gets in his own head he tends to snap and the best way to let Jay figure it out, let him sit and let him talk to you.

“Ooooooor you could come with me”

You nearly drop the glass you pulled out of the sink. You set it down quickly and turn to face him “I’m sorry, what?” you voice a few octaves higher with shock

“I kinda described you…I don’t know. I was here and Jen called. She kept going on and on that I needed to date more. I told her I was and”

“Jay” you swallow hard seeing him scratch his head

“I know…I know” he stares at the glass in front of him before looking at you “I’ll pay for everything. Just be my fake girlfriend for a few days?”

You dry your hands and move back to his spot at the bar, it was late and as usual he was the only one at your bar. Leaning against the counter top “look, you're one of the few good things about this place. And I don’t want to ruin it doing something stupid”

“I understand, I can figure out something…I’ll see you tomorrow?” He asks standing and turning towards the door grabbing his leather jacket

“Jay,” you sigh, he stops “there should be some rules”

“You’ll do it?” His eyes widened “really? I’ll get us two rooms. I’ll get your plane ticket…you don’t have to pay for a thing. Thank you!”

“You don’t have to do that”

“No, no it’s the least I can do. You have no idea how much you are saving me. Stop by the shop tomorrow?” He asks sticking his hands in his pockets, suddenly feeling self-conscious and worried that your going to go home and change your mind

You nod, “Night Jay”

You push open the glass door, the bell chimes as you walk in, you can see Jay standing behind the desk. His laptop is on the counter, and he’s staring at the screen intently. He sticks his tongue out in concentration and he holds his drivers license typing out the numbers with one finger. You smile, it’s cute watching him work so hard. You move closer to him and he looks up from his screen smiling as you approach, greeting you with a warm welcome.

“Hey” you smile back and he waves you to come around the desk. You move next to him looking at the screen of flight times on the screen at different dates. He was looking at the day before, “don’t you want to spend a little more time with your family?”

You know he hasn’t been home for Christmas in three years, it’s actually how you meet him. It was your first year in a new town. You didn’t know anyone and you felt alone. Wondering downtown, snow lightly falling, you were hoping one of the little restaurants was open. Sure you felt horrible for being that person, but you were also praying that there were others that were just alone as you. You pass a tattoo parlor with the ‘OPEN’ sign flashing. Jay's, the name was simple, you pushed the door open and there he was. It was also the night you got your first tattoo. A small bullseye tattoo on your right hand.

“It’s been a while…” he says looking at you. Your hand on the back of his chair and hand on the table looking over the dates and prices

“You wanna make them believe I’m your girlfriend. Then make them believe. Take me home for Christmas”

He didn’t argue, he called his Mom and asked if she would like to see him for Christmas. You swear you could hear her shriek from where you stood. Truth be told you actually wanted to go for Christmas. To spend the holidays with someone, with a family instead of being alone at the bar waiting for a customer or eventually Jay to walk in. He sets the phone on the table, “she’s excited to meet you” as he clicks on the December 22nd date to look at prices and times. You both agreed that even though the cheapest flight was at 5:45 am it was worth it. Opting for the 8:30 am flight instead and spending the extra fifty bucks was worth it. He also booked the two of you a hotel. The only things that were left during the holiday was a single room with two beds. You told him that was fine, it wasn’t the room sharing you were worried about.

You had always found him attractive. The tall, dark and handsome type but with the boy next door charm. When you first met him his head was shaved and at that weird stage of growing back. He was clean shaven, a new look he was trying. His voice was like honey, so smooth and deep. The kind of voice you could listen to all day. He pulled you in with his chocolate brown eyes. The most beautiful brown eyes you’ve ever seen. His smile was warm and made you feel like you’ve known him for years. He was the first person in your new town that made you feel welcome, he was a friend. A shoulder to cry on when the world was falling apart and someone to help you fix things when you couldn’t figure it out.

“So the rules?” He asks sliding the credit card back into his wallet

“I just think there should be some ground rules to this” you say “like keeping things PG”

��But can I kiss you?” He lifts an eyebrow “I’ve said we been together for a while and I’m sure they will think it’s weird if we don’t kiss”

“No tongue…” you look at him in the eyes

“Oooook”

“Things like hand holding is fine, your arm around me, but nothing below the waist. No stupid pet names”

“Amor?” He asks “is Amor ok?”

“Yes…you?” You turn to lean on the counter

“I don’t know, I really haven’t had one. Babe? Is babe ok? He sounds unsure

“Babe…ok” you bite your lip “so yeah I mean I guess that’s really it, just keep things simple. Try not to go into too much detail about things”

He nods, the tickets were purchased, the hotel room booked. He told you there wasn’t a need to rent a car, you would take a taxi to his parents and then borrow one of theirs. You finalize a few things, and you stand up to leave. Turning around to him before you push the door open. He’s back to staring at the computer screen in front of him “oh and babe,” he looks up “one more rule…” you take a long pause “…don’t fall in love with me”

He chuckles “don’t worry. I don’t plan on it. Thank you for helping me”

That rule, that one rule was more for you then him. You didn’t want to ruin the relationship. He was the one true friend you had in this crappy town. You’d be lying if you hadn’t thought about being more than friends, a few times actually. But once sex gets involved things get complicated and you didn’t want to lose him.

The flight was smooth, trying to catch a cab was another story. After what seemed like forever you finally found one that wasn’t already in use, or waiting for another customer. Jay puts the luggage in the truck and you slide in, Jay sitting next to you and giving the address to the cab driver. A 45 minute drive later and you pull up to a modern family home. Two story red brick house. A large wrap-around driveway lined with flowers that were still in bloom.

You open the door as Jay tips the driver. You pop open the trunk and start to reach inside to pull out the two large bags when his hand brushes overs yours. You stop for a brief moment feeling the spark of just a simple touch, you move again but his hand is already on the suitcase handle “a lady should never have to take out her own luggage” he smiles

He closes the trunk of the cab and a sweet voice yelling ‘Mijo…you’re home!!’ has you turning around. An older woman no taller than 5 feet in the most adorable ugly sweater you’ve seen, short gray hair and big round glasses clapping her hands. He drops the bag as she walks towards him

“Wela…hola como estas?” He wraps around her tiny frame and throws her arms around his neck. Cupping his checks when she pulls away

“Oh so good, it’s so good to see you. You look a little thin…are you eating well? Are you eating greens” she squishes his cheeks making him do a fish face

“Yes, Wela I am” he tries to get out hoping she doesn’t catch him in his lie.

She shakes her head and looks directly at you still holding his face “is he eating his greens Mija?”

You freeze for a minute unsure if she is talking to you, you see Jay’s eyes drift to you almost pleading for you to say yes. Or to say anything at this point…”yes?” You say sounding slightly more like a question

“Hmm good woman. Lying for your man. She’s a keeper JJ” she pets his checks

He stands back when she finally releases his checks, putting a hand on your lower back, introducing you to his Grandmother “…she’s also the only person in the world who gets to call me JJ”

“It’s so nice to meet you Mrs. Castillo” you put out a hand for her to shake. She grabs your hand and pulls you into a hug

“Please Senorita Castillo makes me sound so old. Call me Wela” she pulls away grabbing your hand and pulling you towards the house “come…come we have so much to talk about”

You turn to look at Jay as the small lady has more strength then you had anticipated. He smells and nods his head for you to go, picking up the suitcases and following the two of you to the house.

“Jason, they are here!!” She calls into the large family room. A man who looks like an older version of Jay walks around the corner, a woman with short dark brown hair with specks of gray and a sweet, caring smile next to him

Before you know it, you hear Jay’s voice from behind you. It calms you and the sudden panic you feel, wondering if you are even going to be able to pull this off. “Mom, Dad” he calls out. Closing the door behind him. His hand on your back leading you towards his parents. He introduces you, and you can see the look of joy and happiness on his mothers face “…this is my girlfriend” he says it like he’s said it hundreds of times.

“Oh sweetheart, it is nice to finally meet you. Jay has told us so much about you” she takes both your hands in hers and her smile makes you smile

“It’s nice to meet you as well. You have a lovely home Mr and Mrs Castillo”

“Please call us Ma and Pops. Mr and Mrs are so formal, you’re family now” his Dad says hugging you. You know he meant well, but what he had said terrifies you. Are you going to be able to pull this off, and even worse what is going to happen at the end of all of this

“Are you two hungry? You must be hungry…flying always makes me hungry. Come, come Mary and I made tamales last night” his mom takes Jay’s hand and drags the two of you into the kitchen.

There is an entire buffet set up on the kitchen island, far more food for a small lunch then you’ve seen before. His Dad grabs a plate and starts to move down the line when his Mom playfully slaps his hand holding the plate “Mi Amor, our guests need to eat first”

“Guests…he’s our son,” he chuckles “plus he moves to slow and I’m hungry”

He fills his plate with food, and you follow behind him. Taking a little bit of everything. It all smelled and looked amazing. You take a seat at the small kitchen table, Jay taking the seat to your left. Small talk is made over the late lunch. Where you were from, school, a bit about your family. How Jay’s parents met and the plans for the week. “We put some drinks and food in the basement for you. Extra blankets and towels too” his mom tells you both

“You didn’t have to do that Ma, I told you I got a hotel. I was just wondering if I could borrow a car” Jay says pushing the leftover food around on his plate

“Sweetheart, you are my son and you are not staying in a hotel. The basement is completely finished. It’s like a little hotel anyways” she retorts

“Really, Mom…” he looks over at you

“Babe, if you wanna stay with your family. I think we should. You haven’t seen them in a while. It might be nice” you put a hand on his “I’ll be fine, phones got a map. I can’t get that lost can I?”

“Oh no dear, you’d be staying too. You two are adults we know you already sleep together” his Dad says casually “come on Mijo I’ll help carry the bags downstairs”

“You sure?” He asks turning towards you

You nod your head, he leans over and places a kiss on your cheek, “ok. I’ll call the hotel and cancel. I’ll see you in a few Amor” you cheek gets warm where his lips touched you. You bit your lip and nod again

He heads back towards the living following his Father to the living room to take the luggage downstairs, you eyes follow him out of the room while his mother asks you a question, “Hmmm I’m sorry”

“You and Jay? You have any plans while you are here…” his mother asks

“Oh no, not that I know of. I mean Christmas and then the wedding” you smile nervously hoping that you don’t get 21 questions while he is away

You were thankful when the questions weren’t about your relationship and more of the ‘what is your traditions?’ and ‘favorite foods’ type questions. After a few moments Jay and his Dad re-emerge from the basement.

“Hey babe…” you smile when he sits back down next to you, he puts his arm on the back of your chair and you lean to him

The rest of the evening went by quickly, sitting in the family room Jay telling his parents about what he’s been up to since he had moved. You yawn and your head falls to Jay’s shoulder. He chuckles and pats your leg “baby you can go take a shower and get ready for bed. It’s been a long day” he squeezes it gently.

“There’s towels under the sink in the bathroom sweetie, have a good night and we are so excited to have you” he mom smiles at you as you stand up

“Thank you Mr and Mrssssss I mean Mom and Dad?” You look at Jay who gives a soft smile “take your time, good night” you turn and make your way to the basement

After washing off the day's grime you wrap your hair in a towel and let it sit on top of your head. You find a robe hanging on the back of the door and wrap yourself in it. Opening up the door and moving into the bedroom, you come to a halt at the sight of Jay in nothing but a tight pair of black boxer briefs. Your eyes take in the expensive planes of his back. The muscle definition along his shoulders taping down to his skin waist and adorable little butt. Thick thighs and strong legs, you bit your lip. The soft light coming from the bedside lamp made him look like Angel with his golden skin. He turns around and catches you eyeing him and down

“Sorry…” you both say in unison “…I was” you laugh and Jay looks away

“I wasn’t expecting you…” “grabbing some clothes” you say over each other and laugh again Jay’s brown eyes look over your body, the low v-neck of the robe showing off more skin then he has even seen from you before. Little beads of water drip down your chest. “I didn’t know you’d be down here. I thought you’d still be talking to your parents. I’m sorry” you wrap your arms around yourself

“No, I told them I was tired. Which I mean I am…I was just grabbing some clothes to sleep on the couch” he grabs a pair of gray sweats.

“The couch?” you ask

“Rule number 13,” he says “sleep in different beds”

He was right, one of the rules that you both agreed on was sleeping in separate beds. But that was also when the only hotel rooms that were left were single rooms with two single beds.

“That was before…” you start

“It’s alright, really”

That was that, you slept in the bed alone while Jay slept on the small couch. The basement had been set up like a small apartment. His parents had been renting out once in a while for a little extra income. You felt terrible for having him sleep on the couch, but every time you brought it up and tried to get him to sleep in the bed and you’d take the couch he would refuse it and tell you that you as a guest didn’t deserve the couch and it really wasn’t that bad.

Much of the week was spent prepping the meal for Christmas Eve. You helped where you could, or you just watched with awe of how quickly his mother and grandmother worked. You offered to make some of your ‘world famous chocolate chip cookies’ well at least you like to say they are. Anytime you made them, everyone would always rave about how fantastic they were.

Before you knew it, it was Christmas Eve and family was beginning to show up. You quickly ran downstairs to change wanting to make a good impression and make it believable. A pair of black leggings, white Henley you paired with a green and black flannel. Little brown ankle boots completed the look, you could hear the doorbell ring as you climbed back up the stairs.

“Tío Jaaaaaaaaaay” a little voice tells and you can tear the excitement in her voice

“Oooh there’s my favorite niece” you walk in seeing him picking her up “how are you? Boys chasing you around school yet?”

She had to be about 5 or 6 and adorable can be. Short wavy brown hair pulled into two pigtails sitting a top her had. She was wearing a little elf out “ewww boys are gross tío…” she giggles as he tickles her sides

“But I’m a boy”

“No you’re not. Your tío Jay” she wraps her little arms around him and you lean against the door frame watching their interaction

“He’s great with her, kids in general really” a voice next you shakes you from your thoughts “Max…Jay’s brother. You must be the girl Ma keeps talking about”

You turn to look at him, “hopefully good things” you smile and introduce yourself. Putting a hand out, which he takes and pulls you into a hug.

“Of course, said Jay finally seems happy again” a woman about Jay’s age rounds the corner. Long brown hair, soft brown eyes like Max and Jay. She smiles as she walks closer to you

“He wasn’t lying! You do exist” she claps her hands together “so nice you could join us and thank you for convincing that dork to come home for the holidays and my wedding”

“I do exist…” you smile “congratulations on the wedding”

You make small talk with Jay’s siblings as he sits at the small ‘kids table’ playing a game of cards until dinner is ready. Stephanie can see you watching him “You two talk about that yet?”

“About what?” You ask, you attention pulled from Jay and back to the woman standing next to you

“Kids, you know that big relationship changing topic…” her hands float in the air

And there it was, one of the questions you were hoping to avoid during this time. So far you had done a good job of convincing his parents that you were in a relationship. The little hand holds, kisses on the cheek but of course his sister was going to the one to figure this was all just a joke.

“No, we haven’t. It hasn’t really come up” you say casually hoping she would buy what you were selling

“Mmmhmm”

His Mom announces that dinner is ready, the kids all leave Jay to clean up the cards as they run to grab a plate and wait in line to gather food. Jay’s sister doesn’t say anything as she watches you move towards him. Reaching for some of the cards splayed on the table and handing them to him. You turn your back to her so she can’t read your lips.

“I don’t think she believes us,” you say softly handing him the cards you picked up

He slowly stands up, wrapping an arm around your waist, and leaning to whisper into your ear, “she never does” he tells you and hopes that his sister takes it as sweet little nothings instead. He places a kiss on your cheek and sets the cards on a bookshelf. Grabbing your hand the two of you make your way to the rest of the family grabbing a plate and waiting to grab your food.

The family gathered around the table, and the kids at their table. Plates empty and stomachs full, the small talk towards you and Jay started up again. “So where did you two meet?” Jennifer asks, you look at Jay

“What was it four years ago now?” You ask him and he nods

“Yeah, that sounds about right. It was around this time too if I remember correctly. It was snowing, and cold and I swear I was an idiot for being open that night. I had my nose in my sketchbook, and the little bells on the door chime. When I look up, I see this beautiful woman walk into my shop. Snowflakes stuck to her hair, and I knew then that I was a goner. She was the most beautiful woman I’ve seen, even if she was bundled in a huge puffy coat” he laughs “we started to talk about nothing and everything. She told me she didn’t have any tattoos and was terrified of needles. But she really wanted to get one, so I gave her her first tattoo. The same first tattoo I ever got. Six years later, here we are”

You couldn’t believe that he remembered all that. You couldn’t believe he remembered the smallest details; the snow, the beanie, the tattoo. You look at your right hand on your leg before you turn to look at him. His eyes roaming over your face, and he leans in to give you a quick kiss to the lips.

“Awww booooo. Give her a real kiss” his brother teases “kiss her…kiss her”

“Hmmm I would, but there’s no mistletoe around. And we promised to keep things G” he looks at you with a knowing smile

“Think again baby bro” his sister is standing behind the two of you with mistletoe above your heads “kiss her…kiss her” chant begins again

“I guess we should kiss” you look at him, trying to read his expression “I mean it is the rules of Christmas”

He reaches to cup your cheek, thumb brushing along the top of it, eyes looking from your lips to your eyes, slowly moving forward giving you enough time to stop him if you want. When his lips touch yours, you can feel the spark. A spark you haven’t felt in a long time, you gasp in shock opening your mouth just enough for Jay to slip his tongue in for a brief moment before pulling back. “Awwww” his mom and grandma sigh together. While ‘ewww’ and ‘yuck’ come from the kids table behind you. Jay’s face still inches from your and you smile quickly kissing him again before turning back to his family at the table. His lips were soft, the kiss gentle and as fake as this was, the kiss was something you were hoping to try again.

The party eventually moved to the family room, the room filled with presents as the kids all ran to find theirs. You find a spot on the couch next to Jay, the kids excited for the gifts they had found. While the kids played and argued over who had the better superhero action figure the adults opened the few gifts that were left.

Jay’s mom handed him a bag with a small puppy in a Santa hat. He takes out the tissue paper and pulls out a bag of 20 pairs of socks. “Oh babe, this is great. You can finally get rid of some of the socks with holes in them” you try to play the girlfriend card. Jay turns to look at you the how do you know written on his face

“Yeah, I can…thanks Ma” he says setting the bag down, he reaches over you and opens a drawer on the end table pulling out a box and handing it to you “Merry Christmas Amor”

“Jay, I…but we…” you stammer “I didn’t think we were doing gifts”

“It’s no big deal,” he shrugs “open it”

You take off the little green tissue paper, pulling out a small box. You flip it open, sitting inside is a good chain with a two hearts intertwined pendant. Your finger touches the little hearts, biting your lip and looking over at him “this is…thank you” you lean over to kiss his cheek. He wraps his arm around you and pulls you into him “Really Jay, thank you”

The kids were starting to fall asleep in random areas of the house, his siblings claiming their spots on various chairs. You reach for his hand and nod your head towards the basement door. He shakes his head yes and pushes himself up from the couch, taking your hand to help you up. You quietly step over sleeping bodies and walk down the stairs, softly closing the door behind you. He stops at the couch that he had been calling his bed the last few nights, slowly letting your hand go. You quickly tighten your hand around the few fingers that hadn’t let go of you yet. His head jerks up to look at you, “what?”

“Since, I didn’t get you anything…how about my gift to you is the bed” you say “I mean it only seems fair”

“I’ve had that necklace for a while, I was going to give it to you one year for your birthday. But it felt weird since…we, you know we weren’t dating” he chuckles

“Hmm right, dating” you were still holding the box in your hand, “Please Jay just take the bed. I feel horrible making you sleep on this” you gesture to the small couch that he had been sleeping on.

“But the…”

“Jay, forget the rule. Sleep in the bed, we can roll up an extra blanket and stick it between us since you refuse to let me sleep on the couch”

It took some convincing but you finally got Jay into bed. It helped his future brother-in-law came down the stairs half asleep, and fell on the couch, snoring before he even hit the cushions.

You created a small mountain in the center of the bed. Jay kept his flannel PJ bottoms on a gray shirt, there was no way you could sleep with that many clothes on. You had a silk tank-top and a pair of matching shorts. You slide under the covers and stare at the ceiling. Hours go by and you stare at the ceiling, unable to sleep. You wanted to move closer to him, you wanted to curl into his side. Kissing him earlier was nice and you wanted to feel those lips on yours again. You were breaking the one rule you created for yourself. You had fallen for him.

“Can’t sleep?” He turns his head towards you he put a small night light in the room so you wouldn’t trip over anything in the dark if you had to use the bathroom

You shake your head, before saying no. “It was something your sister said” there was a long pause “do you want kids? I mean not with me…buuuuuuu”

“I don’t know, I mean I have thought about it. Getting older and stuff, like if I want much longer his friends are gonna think I’m his Grandpa at his graduation.” He chuckles “Why?”

“Your sister saw me watching you with your nieces, and I just, I don’t know. You’d make a great Dad. I was just wondering if you and your ex ever had that talk. She asked me if we had”

“And what did you say?”

“The truth” you say and you see the his silhouette sit up

“You what?!” He shouts before remembering there was someone sleeping just outside the door

“That it hasn’t come up, which it hasn’t” you feel his eyes on you “I don’t know if I want kids…I mean I can barely keep plants alive. I don’t think I could really keep another small human alive” you sit up

“You are the only person I know that was able to kill a cactus” he smiles

“Hey…” you playfully shoulder him “…I’m pretty sure that thing was half dead when I got it. And who knew being next to a window it would get cold” you lay back down crossing your arms

“Most people…” he laughs. Leaning down to kiss you softly on the lips. He lingers for just a moment waiting for you to say something before he kisses you again. A little longer this time “buenas noches mi amor”

“Night Jay”

The morning came before you were ready, and you felt something warm pressed against your back. It was much hotter than the blanket barrier you had created earlier in the night. There was small puffs of warm air on your shoulder every few seconds, you could feel the hand tighten on the hip it was holding. You slowly blink away and realize at some point the barrier had been thrown to the end of the bed and was replaced with Jay’s body. You’d be lying to yourself if you weren’t happy about it, but you also know that it doesn’t mean anything. He probably doesn’t even know that he is holding you the way he is. When you move as slow as you can reach for his hand, to lift it up so you can get out of bed and let him sleep in, his hand moves to wrap around your body. Tightening his grip on you, he pulls you even more into him. You wait a moment for him to stop stirring, and attempt to move again. This time, he doesn’t put up a fight, you lay his arm down on the spot you once laid when you stand up. Sliding on a pair of jeans and a hoodie, you open the door and walk out to where his brother in law was snoring away.

Tip-toeing up the stairs, you walk into the living room where his Grandma was sitting with a cup of coffee, watching the kids attempt to make pancakes with Jennifer and his mom. “Morning Mija” she says, “come, come sit” she pats the table next to her. His mother handing you a cup of coffee and you make your way to sit next to her. “How did you sleep?”

“Good. Thank you and you?” you ask politely

“Wonderful, it’s always nice to have the house full of family” she smiles “We were thinking of going into town to see the Christmas Lights, something about seeing the lights on Christmas Night makes everything more magical. Would you and JJ like to come?”

“I don’t see why not…you’ll have to ask Jay when he gets up” you take a sip of your coffee. The hot liquid warms your soul as it makes its way down. You continue to talk to his Wela and wait for your turn for pancakes. Jay’s mother asking you how many you would like before setting the plate in front of you, when Jay walks up the stairs, the almost brother-in-law right behind him. When you lock eyes with him it is almost as if relief had washed over him, he had a slight panic attack when he realized you were no longer in the bed with him. He knows he broke rule number 6 and he was praying that you didn’t leave.

“Amor…” he sighs “walking over to the table standing next to you he leans down and kissed the top of your head “I’m sorry, about this morning” he whispers into your ear so no one else could hear. He sits next to you

You shake your head, placing a hand on his thigh, still in his pajamas. You had him your fork with a piece of pancake still attached. He takes it and eats it, “it’s ok…you look like you needed the sleep” you smile and kiss his shoulder, then his cheek

“JJ..Mijo. Christmas Lights in town tonight?” his grandmother asks him although it sounded more of a statement

“Ok…sure? Amor?” he looks at you, as you take another bite of the pancake breakfast.

“I said, yes but it was up to you”

The kids in their beanies and matching light up sweaters, you in a pair of skinny jeans, comfortable shoes and a red sweater. Jay, wearing his favorite pair of dark jeans, green Henley and a brown jacket. The two of you behind the group taking in all the Christmas lights and the magic of the holiday. The park is busier than you had expected it to be. There’s a hot chocolate stand and you look over at Jay and he nods; Jay, David and his brother, making their way over to the little set up. You take a seat on the bench next to his sister waiting for him to come back

There was a line, and as he was waiting a woman with long strawberry blonde walked up behind him. He turned to face her, he was taller than her. You could see his eyes searching for you. He stands there nervously with his hands in his jacket pocket.

“Who’s that?” You ask

“That’s his ex-wife” she groans “he didn’t tell you?”

He told you that he had an ex-wife, the marriage didn’t last long and that is why he left town. He couldn’t face her, you didn’t know the entire story but you knew enough that his heart had been broken. “He told me some…” the longer you watch the more uncomfortable he started to look. You had to do something, but you didn’t know what.

Before you know what you were doing, your feet were carrying you over to him. Your hand reaching for his face and turning it towards you, completely ignoring the fact that she was standing there. You lean into him, your lips finding his, his eyes closing and mouth parting to fit yours. Your dip your tongue in tentatively wondering if you’re taking it too far. When you feel his hand grab your waist, his tongue brushing yours, you know it’s an invitation to continue. Your hand moves, fingers sliding through his hair, deepening the kiss, until you hear the woman clear her throat.

You pull away, opening your eyes to see Jay with a goofy smile on his face. “Sorry got a little lipstick on you” you brush your thumb over his lip before you turn to her “oh…hi sorry about that” you smile and introduce yourself

“Mmm Kat,” she sounds unamused by your little showing “his ex-wife”

“Well thanks for letting this one go, can’t believe someone like him was still on the market” you smile your hand resting on his stomach

“Still working as a struggling tattoo artist?” She asks

“Your boy toy still doing the detective thing?” he retorts

She pauses, the look in eyes shifts and her mood changes. You look up to Jay trying to read his expression, but he keeps the same still face “we aren’t together anymore” she sounds ashamed “he uhm…he cheated”

“Oh” you say and Jay tries to keep a laugh to himself

“You two pretty serious?” She asks

Jay looks at you, a smile spreading across his face. In his heart he is dead serious on taking this fake relationship to real. He has fallen for you over these few days, his arm wraps around you, “I don’t know what the future holds, but I hope she’s in it” . It was sweet, and sincere. It help more meaning than you expected. You nod against his chest while he leans to kiss your head.

“Isn’t that cute, good luck with life Jay” she tries to smile before walking away.

Jay’s arm stays around you when she leaves. Your hand lingers on him, hand running up and down “you ok?”

He nods his head, but his mind is a mess. He wants to keep holding your hand, he wants to keep his arm wrapped around you. He wants to lean down and kiss you. He agreed to the rules, he agreed to not fall in love with you. But the way you make him feel has him wanting to break all the rules.

“I am…thank you”

You finish the night staying next to Jay’s side. Lingering behind the family, watching the life that you wish you could have. Knowing when you get back home, back to your regular life everything is going to change. You are going to go back to normal, no more kissing him, no more pretending you were a couple.

“I’m gonna put some water on, make some tea. Who wants to stay up?” He Grandma asks grabbing the metal tea kettle

“I am exhausted, I think I might turn in. But thank you…” you look at Jay

“I’ll take a cup Weila…” he smiles “I’ll be down soon Amor” he kisses your cheek

You head down the stairs after bidding everyone a good night. It had been a whirl-wind of a week and it was all catching up with you. You were planning on taking a warm shower but you took this as a chance to sleep on the couch and let Jay sleep in the bed. He needed it; and it was the least you could do. You throw on your PJ’s and grab the pillow you had been using and curl up on the small couch. Your eyes closing before you even hit the pillow.

Jay sits and stares at the cup of hot tea sitting in front of him, his fingers tapping on the glass. His parents had gone to bed, and it was just him and his Grandmother. The one person who always knew not only the right words, but knew when there was something wrong.

“Mijo, que pasa?” She asks, running her hand up and down his back.

He takes a deep sigh, tears forming in his eyes as he turns to look at her. Shaking his head, “we’ve been lying to everyone” he tells her “I asked her to pretend to my girlfriend”

“JJ” she wraps her arm around him

He tells her everything, tells her how he asked you to go with him, to pretend to be his girlfriend so his family could get off his back about finding love again. That you actually are a bartender at the bar down the street and the only one that listens to him. How you two created some rules to get through the week one of them being to not fall in love with you, “…I love her” he confesses “I really do. Something happened…”

“Then you need to be honest, and tell her how you feel”

“I can’t…” he sighs his hand covering his face “…she’ll never wanna talk to me again and I’ll lose her as a friend. And I can’t do that. I need her”

“You won’t…” she turns his face towards her “…she loves you too”

He laughs at that comment, “yeah, cuz I’m so freaking great”

“Trust me”

He tiptoes down the stairs, making sure he is as quiet as can be. He knows it’s been a crazy week and he wanted you to sleep. You had been so tired you left the lights on. He comes to a stop when sees you curled up on the sofa and he shakes his head. He leans down, wrapping an arm under your legs and draping an arm of yours over his shoulder. He wraps the other around you and picks you up and walks you to the bed. You head nuzzling into the crook of his neck. His breathing catches for a moment and panic sets in that he shouldn’t be doing this

“Mmmm yoooourrrr waaaaaam” you say asleep “aalllllways warm and soft” you arm pulls you closer into him

He lays you gently on the bed. Removing his arm from under your legs. He know free hand goes to move your arms from around his neck, but your grip even in sleep is strong, you let out a small whimper when he finally breaks your grip. Could his grandmother be right? Could the feelings he has for you be reciprocated? Could you possibly love him?

He kisses your forehead “good night Mi amor” he whispers and pulls the covers over your body. He wants to lay down, fall asleep next to you. Hold you in his arms, but he doesn’t want to risk it. He doesn’t want to make things even more awkward. He shuffles over to where his sleep pants are grabbing them and pausing at the door, “I love you” he says quietly to himself. Gently closing the door behind him and falling on the couch.

You wake up a few hours later, blinking a few times and rubbing your eyes. Trying to figure out where you were. The mattress softer than the couch you had fallen asleep on, the room is quiet and the person you thought would be laying next to you was nowhere to be found. You twist and turn in the sheets, panic washing over you. You sit up and run to open the door. Then you see him, his legs hang over the edge; his arms crossed across his chest. His face is soft and he looks at peace sleeping. Your stomach flips at the sight of him and you walk towards him. Sitting on the coffee table in front of him. Watching him for just a few more minutes before reaching for his face. “Jay, why didn’t you sleep in the bed” you sigh

“You deserve the bed…it’s more comfortable” he says and you jump slightly thinking he’s asleep

Once your heart stops racing, you brush his cheek, “Jay, will you please sleep in the bed? I feel bad, and you deserve to sleep in a comfortable bed too”

His hand moves to cover yours that rests on his face, “I broke the rules the last time we shared the bed. I don’t want to do that again”

“It’s ok…just come to the bed” he shakes his head “fine…new rule. Rule 18. Jay sleeps in the bed”

He finally agreed to sleeping in the bed. The blanket barrier piled higher with a few pillows added. He was making sure he wasn’t going to find himself wrapped around you again, making sure he didn’t slip and lose you. The next few days, things were quiet between the two of you. He spent a lot of the time staying busy, helping his Dad fix things around the house. Doing some yard work that his Dad had been putting off. You helped his Mom and Grandma with some finishing touches for the wedding, his Mom sharing some old photos of the Castillo siblings as children. His Mom eventually leaves, his Grandma moving closer to you when she does.

“Are you and JJ ok?” She asks

You shrug, “I don’t know, he’s been weird since running into his ex. I am worried about him” she nods and you don’t know what happens but the next words out of your mouth shock when you “we’ve been lying to you. To the family”

“About what cariño?”

You tell her everything, not as much detail as Jay had. But you asked her to keep it a secret, you told her that it was hard to say no to him. You always liked him, but over the last few days you had started to truly fall in love with him. That you had always thought what it might be like, being with him. But he was a customer, he was a friend and you didn’t want to lose him as either “I have fallen in love with him”

“Then you need to tell him” she pats your leg “he needs to know”

“Tell him what?” Jay walks in

“What…oh nothing, just that you look adorable in little cowboy costume” you hold up the photo album to him

He rolls his eyes “…I was seven I wanted to be a real cowboy when I got older. It wasn’t weird ok” he gives an awkward laugh and moves towards you to take the book. “How about we put away Jay as a baby”

“But baby Jay was so cute” you smile at him “still is” you add hoping it will release whatever tension is happening between the two of you.

It did, for a brief moment. He looked at you the way he did when he gave you the Christmas gift. A look of love, admiration, and that you held his heart in your hands. The wedding was tomorrow, the entire reason you were here and it would be the last time you could kiss him…unless you got the courage to do something about it. Dinner was quiet between the two of you, his grandma watching you both. She looked like she would have told him you loved him if you didn’t do it soon. You didn’t know her long, but you know she would. It was the wedding tomorrow, and possibly the last chance to be able to tell him.

The wedding was late afternoon, you had spent most of the morning helping pack all the pasties. His parents and Grandma had already left, leaving you and Jay to get ready alone. His mother told you they had spent so much time with the two of you and wanted to give the two of you some alone time. It was a sweet gesture, if the two of you were in a real relationship, right now it was just awkward and quiet.

You were down stairs, sitting on the edge of the bed. The dress hanging behind the door. You tangle your fingers together and then untwist them. There’s a gentle knock on the door before it opens, “hey…just grabbing some clean underwear. I was gonna get ready upstairs” he says walking past you to his dresser and you shake your head ok. He walks back to the door after grabbing a pair of black boxer briefs, you were wondering if he owned another color when you heard him speak again, “I’ll see you upstairs when your ready”

The dress you picked was cut just above the knees. A dark green dress with velvet material. Sparkles of gold throughout the turtle neck dress with long sleeves had a cut-out in the front. Exposing just enough of your chest to show off the necklace Jay had given you. There was a matching cut-out in the back. Dipping just a bit lower in the back of your dress then the front. Showing off enough skin to be slightly sexy for New Year’s Eve. But also tasteful for a wedding with a man whose family you still wanted to impress. You had a pair of black ankle boots with a slight heel. It didn’t match the dress at all, but it was the only black heels you had that weren’t thigh high ‘stripper’ boots, or strappy heels that didn’t work well in the winter weather.

You give your hair one last look before you open the door and head up the stairs to Jay. You get to the family room and see Jay standing in front of the mirror by the door. He groans trying to put the cufflinks on. “Fuck…” he groans again in frustration.

“Do you want some help?” You ask stopping behind the couch

He looks over you and freezes. The cufflinks falls from his hand. You watch his eyes trail and and down your body. Stopping at your chest for a brief moment before returning his gaze to your eyes. You swallow hard, worried. His expression is hard to read. His tongue darts out licking his bottom lip, “wow, you look…you…you look beautiful. I mean you always do, but…”

“Thanks,” you tuck some hair behind your ear. “Do you want some help?” Your voice is soft and timid

“I can’t figure out these stupid things. I haven’t had to wear them for a…” he picks up the cufflink, “do you think?”

You had walked over to him, taking the small piece of jewelry from his large fingers. You pull down his sleeve, folding it to be able to attach the little cufflinks. Aligning the holes of the shirt you push the jewelry in and fixing the back so it stays in place. Gently adjusting the shirt, before moving to the other. You are so close to him, and Jay’s heart begins to race. The smell of your shampoo fills his senses and he wants nothing more than to tilt your chin up and kiss you.

He doesn’t realize you finished until you take a step back and the smell of strawberries is gone. He opens his eyes to see you admiring your work. “There we go, all set” you smile. Your hands linger on his sleeve. You go to pull away but his right hand comes up to stop you.

His hand holding you to him, “thank you” his thumb brushing the back of your hand. “You ready to go?”

You didn’t plan it, you swear you didn’t. But your dress ends up matching Jay’s tie. He told you long ago that his favorite color was green. Hunter green to be exact. You stand off to the side watching as the bride and groom take their photos. Siblings and family after a few minutes. You hear Jennifer call your name “get in the picture” she calls to you.

“No, no. That’s ok. You don’t wanna look back and wonder who this random woman is” you reply

“Pssssh ransom woman. You’re Jay’s Amor now get your pretty little butt over here” her hand motions for you to come over.

You put your head down and walk over to them. Max standing next to his sister as his wife wraps her arms around him. Jay standing next to his new brother-in-law. You stop next to him. Jennifer looks at the two of you “come on Jay, at least look like you love her” she jokes with him.

He lifts up his arm and you move closer. Wrapping an arm around his waist he drops his arm resting on your shoulder. The hand that isn’t wrapped around him moves up to intertwine your fingers with the one draped over you. You look over at him to see if what you did is ok, he gives you a small smile. The photos are snapped and you release his hand, but he keeps his arm around you. “We need to talk later ok?” He says softly and you nod your head

The party was fully underway, Jay had been dancing with his Grandma while you sat with his nieces coloring on the white paper cloth that had been placed at their table. The little girl drawing a bunch of flowers, “are you gonna marry my Tio Jay?” one of the little girls ask and you look up to see him smiling and laughing with his Grandma

“I don’t know, he’d have to ask me first. But I like him, he’s a good uncle isn’t he?” you turn your attention back to her and she nods her head

———————————-

“Have you told her yet?” she asks

“No,” he says quickly “I…I haven’t told a woman I loved her since Kat. I haven’t been with a woman since her either. What if, what if I disappoint”

“Mijo…go to her” the upbeat song slowly fades into something slower “she hasn’t stopped watching you since you got on the dance floor. Go get your Amor and tell her how you feel”

You were no artist; nothing like the talent Jay had but your little doodles lead to drawing a large heart a hand, or your poor attempt and a hand holding it. You feel his warm fingers touch your shoulder, “may I have this dance?” he asks as you turn your head to him “please…”

“Of course,” you turn to stand “you girls gonna be ok?” They smile and nod and go back to their drawings as Jay holds your hand and leads you to the dance floor.

Turning you, he places a hand to your waist and lifting the hand he is holding. He starts to move to the slow melody of the music. Your hand resting on his shoulder and you bring the one he was holding to his other shoulder “those kids love you, you know that?”

“Yeah…they are pretty great”

“They asked me if I was going to marry you” you smile at him

“Oh God, I’m so sorry” he closes his eyes tightly “their perception of love…”

“Jay, it’s ok…” you laugh

The music continues and he moves his feet, leading you a small circle. You had created your own little space in the far corner away from most of the other dancers. It’s like you’ve done this before, your fingers move to the back of his neck, fingertips lightly tracing up and down here his hair meets his neck, his thumb gently rubbing over your hips.

“I guess we should probably kiss now…Incase people are watching” he sighs staring into your eyes

“We should, keep up the image” you bite your lip

He leans to you, his nose rubbing over yours before. He slowly moves his lips to yours and the wait is unbearable. You part your lips inviting him to deepen the kiss. His tongue tentatively brushes yours. Your fingers wrap around his short hair, trying to keep him close to you. You follow his movements, kissing him was effortless. It felt like you had been with him for years, he made your heart race in a good way. He takes your breath away with a simple kiss and you want nothing more than to continue to kiss him and his soft lips. But he pulls away far too quickly “do you wanna get out of here?” he asks his forehead resting against yours. You nod…this is the time you were waiting for, it is now or never to tell him how you feel. “Spend our last night as a couple together?”

The car ride was silent and you battle with your inner self about how to tell him. What is reaction, will he feel the same…is how he kissed you just for show.

You're downstairs, Jay and turned on one of the New Years Eve music programs, you are in the room trying to take the dress off but you can reach the zipper. The sound of struggles reaches Jay. He sets the remote down and walks into the room. He sees you back to him looking at yourself in the mirror trying to reach the zipper.

“Everything ok in here? It sounds like a fight…” he has taken off his suit jacket and tie already the top button of his shirt undone.

“I’m stuck…” you groan and he gives a breathy laugh and it sounds like heaven “can you help me…please?”

He walks over to you, hestatently reaching for the zipper of your dress. His eyes taking in your bare skin in front of him. You can hear his breathing catch in his throat. Carefully he takes the small zipper in his fingers. An up and coming music star takes the stage and the music fills the empty space between you

“I swear the older I get, I don’t know who any of these people on these shows are…” you laugh moving your hair for Jay his hand still hasn’t moved

“I told her…” the words so fast you don’t understand him. His fingers still don’t move afraid to take this next step “…I told Wela everything”

“Everything?” You turn your head just enough to look at him

“I never should have asked you to do this, and I’m sorry” his fingers slowly unzip your dress “…I agreed to the rules I know that, but I…I’ve fallen for you”

His thumb trails down your back where the zipper lays, the skin contact dispite his warmth sends a shiver down your spine, leaving goosebumps behind. “Jay…” you say quietly but he doesn’t hear you

“…and I know it’s stupid and I…I want to call you Amor for real. But I can’t and I know that. I’ve realized I’d rather have you in my life wishing I could have you then not having you at all” his hand hasn’t left your back and you turn to face him, his hand doesn’t move

“Jay…you’re right. You shouldn’t have asked me. And your right…we both agreed to the rules” he closes his eyes and starts to let go of you but you grab his wrist to stop him “but the thing is, I would have always said yes. Jay I fell for you a long time ago. I made those rules because I was afraid. I was afraid this would change everything”

Your hand reaches to cup his cheek, the countdown to midnight coming from the TV in the other room, your heart pounding in your chest “Jay, I love you”

“7…6…5…4” the crowd continues the countdown

“Really?” He opens his eyes and you nod, you try to blink back the tears “I love you too”

The countdown hits one and he crashes his lips to yours. It’s more intense than any of the kisses before. His arms wrap around you pulling your body close to his. Your arm wraps around his neck, his tongue fighting for dominance as he explores your mouth. You have to pull away to catch your breath, Jay’s teeth grabbing your lip as you do. You hand holding his shoulder as you try to keep your balance the world was spinning and you wanted more…needed more. “Jjjjjjay…” you mumble against his lips, “Jay” you smile

“I love you” he says again, catching his breath running his nose along yours. Your finger moved towards the buttons on his shirt, he had taken the tie off on the drive home. Your eyes focused on his, fingers trembling the further down you work. Pulling out the tucked portion of his shirt and sliding the shirt off his broad shoulders, exposing his golden skin to you. You haven’t seen him with his shirt off and he is beautiful. His broad shoulders look so strong, the muscles toned and flex with the movement of his arms as he picks you up. You wrap your legs around his waist, arms wrapped around his neck.

His lips find yours again walking the two of you towards the bed. His knees hit the edge of the bed, shifting your weight in his arms as he crawls on the bed. Sitting on his knees and you sitting on his thighs. The kiss deeping with each passing moment his hands slide up your thighs sending a shiver down your spine. Your hands moving to hold his face, you take his bottom lip between your teeth, tugging as you pull away. Your thumb brushing over his cheekbone “Jay,” he nods “I love you”

The hand on your waist tights, as he thrusts into you again. His fingers lock with the hand he’s holding above your head, the once methodical precision Jay had has begun to flatter. Your free hand holding around his neck, his eyes on yours. You moan out his name one last time as your walls tighten around him. Jay pushes deeper chasing his own high, a few more deep thrusts and he is releasing himself into you. All that he has to give, leaning down and kissing you. The kiss slow and tender, his hand loosening around your waist. He moves his arm to prop himself up, holding his body weight above you. Jay pulling his lips away from yours “Amor,” he pecks your lips “I love you”

“I love you” you smile against his lips

As you watch him shuffle to the bathroom you think to yourself how much had changed over the last few days. You had always had a small crush on the cute tattoo artist, who became a friend. You can only hope the things that happened this past week wasn’t because of the season, or the wedding. But this was something that could last. He comes back, sitting on the edge of the bed next to you. Carefully he takes the damp cloth to clean you up and tosses it over in the direction of the rest of the clothes. You scoot over to make room for him and he snuggles next to you. Wrapping an arm around your waist and pulling you to him. His chin resting on your shoulder, his nose rubbing along your jaw bone.

“Amor,” he whispers, “new rule…”

“Ok…” you respond hand running up and down his arm that his holding you

“Don’t break my heart”

“Don’t worry…” you turn your head to face him “I don’t plan on it”

To find more great works of mine and other writers visit @littlemisspascal and her library

#jay castillo

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