#jude belling x oc | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

calif0rnia-lovers · 4 months ago

Text

every road ends.

pairing: jude bellingham x fem!oc "kaira bennett" | fc: justine skye

request: Jude Bellingham and his girlfriend start to grow apart, but he’s convinced she’s his soulmate.

author's note: this started as a reader one shot and morphed into something else. my brain mapped out a four part story, if y'all are down for the ride??? based on four tracks from maeta's ep "when I hear your name."

sum: when jude signed to real madrid, he knew it would come with immense pressure. as he struggles to balance his new club, fast rise to fame, and expectations, he finds Kai slipping away.

warnings: angst--first heartbreak. | words: 5.9k

part i: denial

Kaira sat at the elegantly set dinner table, her eyes scanning the faces of her colleagues and boss as they engaged in animated conversation. The warm glow of the candles and soft laughter filled the room, creating an atmosphere of celebration and camaraderie. Yet, despite the festive surroundings, her mind was elsewhere.

She had been waiting for Jude all evening. His absence had been a nagging concern, and as the dinner progressed, her anticipation turned into a gnawing worry. He was supposed to be here, celebrating with her, but as the minutes ticked by, there was still no sign of him.

She discreetly glanced at her phone, half-expecting to see a text from him saying "I’m here" or something reassuring. Instead, she found an empty screen, the only message being the reminder of time slipping away.

The dinner continued around her, the conversation flowing effortlessly between the guests, but Kaira's attention was fragmented. Her attempts to focus on the lively discussion felt hollow, her mind preoccupied with thoughts of Jude and the reason for his delay.

Memories of past evenings with Jude flickered through her mind—the times he had been there to share in the laughter, to offer a comforting presence during stressful moments. Now, the absence of his familiar warmth felt like a stark contrast against the backdrop of celebration.

Her fingers drummed nervously on the edge of the table, a subtle sign of her growing unease. She checked her phone again, her hope dwindling with each passing moment. The text she had hoped for never arrived, and the empty screen only deepened her sense of disappointment.

As the evening wore on, Kaira tried to shake off the feeling of being incomplete. She forced a smile and participated in the conversation, but her thoughts kept drifting back to Jude. Each time she looked around the room, she found herself scanning the doorway, wishing to see him walk in with that familiar, reassuring smile.

Her boss raised a toast, and everyone cheered, lifting their glasses in celebration. Kaira managed to join in, her smile bright but her eyes betraying a hint of sadness. She couldn’t help but feel the weight of Jude's absence, which seemed to overshadow the joy of the evening.

The night continued, but the echo of Jude's missing presence lingered, casting a shadow over what was meant to be a joyful and memorable occasion.

Jude stumbled through the door, the weight of the evening's events pressing heavily on his shoulders. He had been attending a sponsor event for work, his mind preoccupied with business and the social obligations that came with it. His tie was loosened, and his jacket hung over his arm as he made his way to the bedroom.

He found Kaira lying in bed, her back turned to him. The room was dimly lit by the soft glow of a bedside lamp. Jude started to undress, the fabric of his formal attire feeling heavy and oppressive after the long day. His removed his phone from his pocket, and he pulled it out, noticing the single text sent from her.

Seriously?

As he began to remove his dress shirt, his eyes fell on the discarded dress draped over a nearby chair. It was Kaira’s emerald evening dress, the one he'd helped pick out a few weeks ago, and seeing it now, the realization hit him like a ton of bricks. His heart sank as he understood the significance of the evening that he had completely overlooked.

The dinner—Kaira’s dinner. The one where she was supposed to be surrounded by colleagues and friends, celebrating her new role in the company. He had completely missed it.

A wave of guilt washed over him as he approached the bed, his voice tinged with guilt. “Kaira, I’m so sorry. I thought it was next Thursday. I know how important tonight was for you. I should have been there.”

Kaira remained silent, her body tense and unmoving. The silence stretched between them, a heavy blanket that seemed to press down on both of them. Jude’s apology hung in the air.

After a long pause, Kaira finally spoke, her voice soft but firm. “It’s fine,” she said quietly, reaching over to turn off the lamp. The room was instantly shrouded in darkness, the only sound the soft rustle of the sheets as she settled into her side of the bed.

Jude stood in the dimness, the reality of his mistake sinking in. He felt the sting of her silent treatment, a painful reminder of the evening he had missed.

Kaira sat at her desk, the soft hum of the office filling the air around her. She sipped her coffee, the warmth and familiarity of the oat milk blend a small comfort amidst the chaos of her day. Her gaze fell on the bouquet of lilies on her desk—her favorite flowers. Delivered an hour prior, they filled her room with a comforting scent. She gently took out the card nestled among the blooms and flipped it open

Jude's familiar script was pressed into the cardstock. He'd ordered the flowers the moment she'd left for work. Three days passed and she hadn't said anything about him missing dinner. When Jude tried to apologize, she smiled and provided the same response, "it's fine." He wished she'd be angry, yell at him. Let out her frustration but she didn't. She never has.

Kai,

Sorry I missed dinner. Can we call a truce? I’m really missing fighting for my side of the bed—turns out it's the key to a good night's sleep.

—J

The moment was interrupted by the sound of a knock on her door. Kaira looked up to see Mr. Thompson, her boss, standing there with a warm, inviting smile. He was an older man, his graying hair and gentle eyes radiating a kindness that always put her at ease.

"Morning, Kaira," he greeted, stepping into her office. "How’s everything going?"

"Morning, Mr. Thompson. Everything’s good, just reading over the brief for the latest project," she replied, quickly storing the card in her nearby planner.

Mr. Thompson’s gaze drifted to the bouquet of lilies on her desk. "Those are beautiful lilies you’ve got there. They look like they were picked with care. A nice touch from Jude, I’m sure?"

Kaira nodded, a smile finding her lips. "Yes, they’re my favorite."

"Well, it’s clear he knows how to make the other ladies of the office jealous," Mr. Thompson said with a chuckle. "We were hoping he’d join us for dinner, but I understand how things can get busy."

"Now, I wanted to discuss the brief. We’ve got a potential set of clients in Washington, D.C. They’re a major firm looking to overhaul their marketing strategy, and they were genuinely impressed with our previous work."

Kaira’s eyes widened, her pulse quickening with anticipation. "Really? That sounds incredible."

"It is," Mr. Thompson agreed, his eyes twinkling with enthusiasm. "And I’ve been giving a lot of thought to who would be the best fit to lead this presentation. Your work has been nothing short of exceptional, Kaira. I’d like you to consider taking this on."

Kaira blinked in surprise, her heart skipping a beat. "Me?" she asked, her voice tinged with disbelief. "Are you sure?"

Mr. Thompson’s face broke into a warm, reassuring smile as he chuckled softly. "Absolutely. You have an extraordinary knack for understanding client needs and delivering results that exceed expectations. Here’s how it works: You’ll need to create a detailed presentation to share with the team. We’ll review it and then hold a vote to select the lead for this project."

Kaira’s eyes widened. "And if I’m selected?"

"If you’re chosen," Mr. Thompson continued, "you’ll be traveling to Washington, D.C., to oversee the project. It’s a significant role, and it will involve a five-month commitment there"

Kaira hesitated, her face reflecting her uncertainty. "But five months away from home… that’s a long time. What if it’s not the right move?"

Mr. Thompson nodded thoughtfully, his expression empathetic. "I get it, Kaira. Relocating for an extended period isn’t ideal for everyone. It can be challenging to be away from loved ones. However, this project offers a unique opportunity for growth. Leading a major project in D.C. will not only enhance your skills but also elevate your career to new heights. It’s a chance to make a significant impact and open doors for future opportunities."

Kaira’s shoulders relaxed slightly as she considered his words. "Thank you, Mr. Thompson, for considering me."

"Of course," he said warmly. "Just remember, if you decide to take this on, you’ll have our full support. Now, go ahead and start working on that presentation. I’m confident the clients will be impressed with what you bring to the table."

As Mr. Thompson left her office, Kaira sank back into her chair, the enormity of the opportunity slowly settling in. She had the chance to lead a major project in Washington, D.C., a city brimming with opportunities and fresh challenges. The thought was both exhilarating and intimidating. She knew she needed to share the news with Jude, but with his current stress and their growing distance, she wasn’t sure how he would react.

For now, she pushed those worries aside and focused on the task at hand. Opening her laptop, she began to brainstorm ideas for the presentation, determined to prove to herself and her boss that she was ready for this next pivotal step in her career.

Jude sat at the kitchen table, his coffee growing cold beside him. He reached for his phone, hoping for a distraction in the form of the latest sports headlines, but instead, his heart sank.

A notification from a popular sports and celebrity gossip site caught his eye. The headline blared: “Trouble in Paradise? Jude Bellingham’s Girlfriend Spotted with Mystery Man.” His stomach churned as he clicked on the article, dreading what he might find.

The page loaded with perfectly timed and zoomed-in photos of Kaira at a café, having lunch with a man Jude didn’t recognize. The images captured them greeting each other with a hug, their faces lit up with smiles, and their conversation full of animated laughter. The media had twisted their innocent lunch into a scandalous story of potential infidelity.

As he absorbed the images, his phone buzzed again. This time, it was a message from Jobe, accompanied by a link to the same article. “You seen this, mate?” the text read. Jude’s jaw clenched in frustration as he stared at the screen.

Despite his better judgment, Jude read the article. The blurb detailed their interaction: "Kaira Bennett, Jude Bellingham’s girlfriend of nearly three years, was spotted enjoying a cozy lunch with a mystery man at a charming outdoor café. The two were seen greeting each other with a warm hug, and their animated conversation was punctuated with smiles and laughter. Is there trouble in paradise for the young football star and his American love?”

The article speculated about their relationship being on the rocks, noting that Jude hadn’t shared any recent pictures of Kaira on his social media, and her lack of appearance at his most recent sponsor event. “Sources close to the couple suggest that their relationship is strained due to Jude’s demanding schedule and the pressures of playing for Real Madrid. Little is known about Kaira Bennett, who works in marketing, but she had uprooted her life to be with Jude, first moving to England and then following him to Spain. A decision she might now regret, being as the Real Madrid star is spending more time with his new teammates. Could this be the end for the seemingly perfect pair?”

Jude’s blood boiled as he read the baseless speculation. He knew the man in the photos was a friend of Kaira's, yet the media had distorted their innocent lunch into something scandalous. The sight of Kaira’s genuine, radiant smile in the photos made him pause. What if there was a grain of truth to the article? Was there a strain in their relationship he hadn’t acknowledged? He thought about his busy schedule, the constant demands of the club, and how little time they had spent together lately. Doubt mixed with his anger and frustration.

Just then, Kaira rounded the corner. She looked flustered, dressed for work in a fitted blouse and pencil skirt that accentuated her figure. Her natural hair was styled in a sleek bun, and she was adjusting her earrings—an anniversary gift from Jude—as she entered. Running through the day's agenda in her head, she grabbed a bottle of orange juice from the fridge.

It wasn’t until she started to pour her glass that she noticed the tension in the room. Her smile faded as she set the glass down and looked at him with concern.

“Everything okay with the team?" she asked, her voice tinged with worry.

He held up his phone, the article glaring from the screen. “Have you seen this?” he asked, his voice tight with irritation.

Kaira’s eyes widened as she took the phone and read the headline. Her brow furrowed the further she skimmed the article. “Why are you reading this?” she muttered, scrolling through the photos.

“Half the team’s sent it to me,” Jude said, struggling to keep his emotions in check. “They’re trying to make it look like you’re cheating on me with that guy. Who is he, anyway?”

Kaira’s eyes flashed with a mix of anger and frustration. “This is ridiculous.”

Jude sighed, rubbing his temples. “So, me not wanting the world to see some guy getting chummy with my girlfriend is ridiculous?”

“No, Jude,” Kaira shot back, her frustration boiling over. “Giving this tabloid trash any thought is ridiculous. That’s Mark, my coworker. You would have met him if you hadn’t skipped out on the company dinner.”

“I didn’t skip it." Pinching the bridge of his nose, Judge sighed. Looping back around to this topic was the fuel to the flame. "I had to attend that event. You know how important my commitments are.”

"Trust me, I'm reminded every day that they're clearly more important than spending time with me,” she retorted, her voice rising. “It feels like you’re always tied up with something. I’ve been supporting you from the shadows, never asking for anything in return. But the one time I needed you to show up for me, you couldn’t even remember.”

Jude’s expression softened, a mix of regret and confusion crossing his face. Nearly two weeks had passed from that night. “Kaira, you said it was fine. If I'd known you'd still be pissed I would've gone—”

"You're supposed to know that it was not fine, Jude." She snapped. The tone of her voice one he'd never been on the receiving end of. "I never had to beg you to pay attention to me before."

"So, you go and get it from him?"

Jude knew the words would sting, yet he let them out anyway.

"Mark was helping me with a proposal for work. He was there with me and Alix. Something that stupid article didn't mention. We were just discussing the details over lunch. It’s my first big assignment, and I need his help.”

Jude’s eyes widened as he racked his brain, trying to recall if she’d mentioned this before. “What proposal?”

“Mr. Thompson offered me this project--".

Kaira's phone buzzed on the kitchen counter, and she glanced at the screen. Mark was calling. Jude’s jaw clenched as he noticed it.

Kaira took a deep breath, eyes closing as she listened to the ringtone. It was not until the ringing stopped that she spoke. Her voice came out soft and slow. “I have a meeting and can’t afford to be late. I need to go.”

Kaira gathered her things, lingering long enough to allow Jude the opportunity to stand. To give her a kiss goodbye, but he never did. As she headed for the door, she glanced back once, but Jude’s eyes were already back on his phone, lost in his thoughts.

As the weeks passed, the once vibrant and loving dynamic between Kaira and Jude began to shift subtly. What had been a seamless connection started to fray at the edges, giving way to an undercurrent of tension and miscommunication.

It began with the small things. The tender gestures they once shared, like the way Jude would ignore his morning alarm to steal a few extra minutes with her or the way she would rest her head on his lap as she worked on her laptop, began to wane. Their time together became marked by tense silences and strained smiles. Dinner conversations, once filled with plans and dreams, now centered around logistics and conflicting schedules. The warmth that had once defined their evenings was replaced by a cold formality, as if they were merely coexisting rather than truly living together.

Jude’s demanding training sessions and media obligations began to dominate his time. Since his high-profile signing with Real Madrid, the media had been abuzz with speculation and anticipation. Headlines screamed about the immense pressure he was under to live up to the expectations that came with joining one of the most prestigious clubs in the world. To navigate this new chapter, Jude spent his evenings getting to know his new teammates, attending team dinners, and engaging in social events. What had been occasional late nights turned into a regular part of his schedule, and his absence from their shared moments became more frequent. When he was home, he seemed distant, his mind preoccupied with the relentless scrutiny and the weight of living up to the lofty expectations set by fans and the media alike.

Kaira, too, was grappling with her own challenges. The looming pressure to build an impressive proposal for the D.C. clients cast a long shadow over their interactions. What had once been an exciting opportunity now felt tinged with anxiety as she worried about its impact on their relationship, making it impossible to find the right time to tell Jude. She was deeply immersed in crafting her proposal for the project, pouring countless hours into perfecting every detail. The pressure to deliver an impressive presentation weighed heavily on her, and she threw herself into her work in an attempt to stave off the growing distance between them.

When they did spend time together, their interactions often ended in arguments or misunderstandings, often caused by stress and exhaustion.

The presentation came and went. Kaira had been steeling herself all week to have the conversation she knew was inevitable. The thought of telling Jude about her potential move to D.C. had been a constant in her mind, a weight she could barely shake off. She had received the email from Thomas two days ago, offering the lead.

Kaira and Jude were nestled at a charming outdoor café, the city square alive with the gentle hum of evening activity. They were savoring their ice cream, a much-needed treat after their hectic schedules.

Jude watched Kaira with a fond smile as she took a spoonful of his ice cream, her eyes lighting up with mischief as he moved the cup out of reach.

As she ate, Jude’s gaze lingered on her. His fingers absently traced gentle circles on her knee under the table, a gesture that was both comforting and foreign. He couldn’t remember the last time they’d had a date. Kaira felt his gaze, passing over her shoulders, her neck, her cheek, her lips. Her fingers fidgeted with her earring—a nervous habit she had whenever she sensed his intense focus on her. Jude smiled at the action. Grateful he could still make it happen.

She met his eyes and tilted her head slightly, a playful smile tugging at her lips. “What?” she asked, her voice light and teasing. “Not in the mood for ice cream?”

Jude’s eyes twinkled mischievously. His touch drifting up her thigh, the shift in her posture encouraging him to continue. “Not in the slightest.”

Kaira laughed softly, as his touch retraced their path leaving a heat that spread from her head to her toes.

The smile on Jude’s face is enough to distract Kaira from the approaching familiar face.

“Hey, Jude! Kaira!” Mark greeted, his tone cheerful. “I didn’t expect to run into you guys here.”

Jude’s smile faltered, watching as Kaira stood to give Mark a brief hug. “Hey, Mark. Fancy seeing you here.”

Mark extended his hand to Jude, and they shook hands. “Nice to finally meet you properly. I’ve heard so much about you.”

“Likewise,” Jude replied, his smile not reaching his eyes.

Mark’s attention shifted to Kaira, his expression warm. “I see you’re already celebrating. Everyone’s been talking about you being offered that DC gig. Congratulations!”

Jude glanced down at Kaira, watching the way her grin spread across her face. “Thank you! It’s been a lot of work, I’m just glad it’s over. But, I couldn’t have even gotten the offer without your help.”

Mark waved off the compliment, “We’ll miss you around the office, but we’re already planning a big welcome-home party for when you return.”

Jude zoned out. His brain does not seem to move past the words “offer” and D.C.” It’s not until Mark is gone, Kaira settling back in her seat that he blinked.

Jude broke the silence, his voice soft but edged with hurt. “Kaira, why didn’t you tell me about the offer?"

"I didn't get the official offer until a few days ago."

"This is tied to the proposal he was helping you with? That was weeks ago--" Jude's brow furrowed, eyes passing over her face. Her gaze unable to lift to his. "We’re supposed to talk about everything, right? Why didn’t you trust me with that?”

Kaira paused, her spoon hovering over her melting ice cream as she looked up at him. Her voice came out small. “It’s not that I didn’t trust you. It’s just that you’ve been so busy lately. I didn’t want to add to your stress.”

“You’re placing this on me?” Jude scoffed in disbelief.

“No,” Kaira sighed, her fingers tracing the rim of her cup.

"Good. I tell you about everything, Kai. Every business deal, sponsorship, training date, match. Every single detail about my job. Since when do you hide shit from me about yours?"

She got the words out as quickly as she could. There was no point in lying, Jude could figure it out. "I was afraid that if I told you, you’d ask me not to take the job." She winced at her own admission. The silence from Jude tightening her throat. "Jude, I've moved more than once to be with you, no hesitation. I really like this company, and they're giving me an amazing opportunity.”

Jude’s eyes widened. “Are you saying that you thought I would hold you back? That I wouldn’t want you to go for something that’s important to you?”

Kaira’s voice softened. “I didn’t want to put you in that position. I didn’t want to say anything until it was a done deal.”

Jude’s shoulders slumped slightly, the weight of her accusations settling heavily on him. “Clearly, It is a done deal, Kai.”

“What do you mean?”

“Take the job,” Jude said. Standing, he gathered his untouched ice cream. “You’ve already decided.”

"I did not--"

"You did, Kai. That's why you didn't tell me the moment you found out." Jude paused, the level of calm in his voice causing Kaira's stomach to churn. "You want the job. Take it."

His words lingered long after his departure. Hanging over the two of them in future days. They barely breached the conversation. An unspoken wave of "space" creeping in their movements. Falling into a pattern of spending less and less time together. A week was all Kaira was granted. A week to pack. A week to find an apartment for her stay. A week to crush the fear that constantly churned in her stomach. The fear of living in a city without Jude.

Kaira's going away party was held in a stunning Spanish venue, where tradition met elegance. The grand hall inside was adorned with crystal chandeliers, ornate tapestries, and tables draped in rich fabrics. Soft, ambient lighting cast a warm glow over the room, highlighting the joyous faces of their friends and co-workers who had come to celebrate her next chapter. The laughter and chatter mingled with the soft strains of classical music played by a live quartet. Jude had planned every aspect, surprising her.

Outside, the venue opened up to a lush garden, a hidden oasis bathed in moonlight. The garden was a paradise of fragrant blooms, with roses, jasmine, and lavender. Fairy lights were strung delicately through the trees and along the shrubs, casting a magical glow. At the heart of the garden was a beautiful stone fountain, its gentle cascade of water adding a soothing soundtrack to the night.

Jude had stepped out to the garden to get some fresh air. It was hard for him to be inside, watching Kaira smile and laugh, knowing she was leaving in the morning. He finished his drink—a glass of dark whiskey, the warmth of which did little to soothe the emotions within him.

Kaira eventually noticed his absence and went to find him. She wandered through the garden, her eyes reflecting the soft glow of the fairy lights. The scene was almost dreamlike, the perfect setting for a night meant to be remembered. She found Jude sitting by the fountain, staring into the rippling water, the glass of whiskey resting on the stone beside him.

She approached him quietly and sat down next to him, the stone cool against her skin. With a sigh of relief, she slipped off her heels and wiggled her toes. She looked up at the night sky, the stars twinkling like diamonds against the velvet backdrop, before turning her gaze back to the enchanting garden.

"It's beautiful," she said softly, gently massaging her sore foot. "Thank you for the party. You didn't have to do all this."

Jude's touch found her ankle, and she shifted slightly on the fountain to face him. He began to gently massage her foot, his hands warm and soothing against her skin. "I'd do anything for you, Kaira. Anything to make you happy."

She closed her eyes, allowing the sensation to wash over her, listening to the distant music from the party and the rhythmic sound of the running fountain. "I know you would," she replied, her voice filled with warmth and gratitude. "I am happy, Jude. I really am."

"I'll miss this," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Jude’s brow arched, the corner of his lips turning up slightly. "My foot massages? I knew I had a hidden talent."

Kaira chuckled softly, opening her eyes to look at him. "True, but I meant these peaceful moments with you."

"This night is almost perfect," she said, shifting closer. Her lips brushed against his. "The only thing that would make it truly perfect is if you were inside, enjoying the party with me."

She reached out to cup Jude's cheek, her touch warm and gentle. The warmth of her hand was meant to soothe, but it seemed to highlight the sadness in his eyes. "You've been quiet all night," she said softly. "What's wrong?"

Jude’s hands trembled as he reached into his chest pocket and pulled out a small blue box. "I need to give you this before you leave," he said, his voice barely more than a whisper. "It’s a promise… a promise that I’ll always love you, no matter where you go or what you do."

Kaira’s eyes widened at the sight of the box, her breath catching in her throat. With trembling hands, she took it, the irregular pounding of her heart quickening with anxiety. She slowly untied the ribbon.

Kaira looked down at the dainty silver necklace, her eyes softening as she took in its beauty. The small, intricate heart pendant, adorned with delicate diamonds, sparkled gently in the moonlight. Her breath caught in her throat, touched by the thoughtfulness behind the gift.

"It's beautiful," she said softly, wrapping her arms around him in a hug. She pulled back slightly, her eyes meeting his. "Will you put it on me?"

Jude nodded, his hands trembling as he took the necklace from her. Turning, Kaira gathered her hair and lifted it away from her neck, exposing the delicate curve of her shoulders.

As Jude's fingers worked with the clasp, his touch was tender and careful. He moved slowly, his fingers brushing against her bare skin with a warmth that sent shivers down her spine. The flutter of her heart the same from the first moment their eyes had met across the crowded arena years ago.

When he had finished fastening the clasp, he pressed a soft kiss to the skin just below it, moving to the curve of her shoulder. Traveling, his lips brushed against her pulse, a tender gesture that felt like he was trying to commit the beat of her heart to memory.

He rested his face against her neck for a moment, savoring the closeness and the comfort of her presence.

Slowly, she turned back to face him.

“Jude… why does this feel more like a parting gift than a congratulations?” Kaira asked, her voice trembling slightly.

Jude’s gaze met hers. His voice was heavy, cracking under the weight of his decision "Because, Kaira, I think we’ve reached a point where… where it’s become clear that we’re heading in different directions.”

"Different directions?" She echoed, her brow furrowed in confusion. “Where is this coming from?”

"I love you," Jude lifted her hand, pressing a tender kiss to her fingers. "Asking you to split your focus between me and your job is something I can't do. It’s not fair to ask you to while you’re starting a new chapter. We should break up...so you can go to D.C., no strings attached."

Her breath hitched, and Kaira shook her head slightly. "You're not a string, Jude," she replied, her voice trembling.

She couldn’t let him reduce himself to that. Strings could be easily torn, snapped with a single pull. But Jude wasn’t something that could be ripped from her life without a second thought. He was something much deeper, embedded within her very core. He was woven into the fabric of her existence, his presence a constant pulse within her soul.

She placed her hand over his chest, feeling the steady, reassuring rhythm of his heartbeat. It thumped against her palm, strong and unwavering, a tangible reminder of the life and love they shared. "You’re...everything," she said softly.

He swallowed hard.

"This--breaking up? It's not part of the plan. Our plan--we have a plan," she reminded him. "You and me. We are supposed to be together, we're supposed to--"

Jude knew the plan. Three years of giggles, whispered desires, dreams that seemed insane, yet somehow attainable with each other. Plans that involved a wedding, kids. He'd known from the moment they'd met, he'd never find a woman as captivating as Kaira. He'd dated others before her, but they couldn't compare.

"Plans change."

"You're saying you don't want me in your future?" The confusion in her voice dropped Jude's gaze.

Jude wanted to tell her that he couldn't imagine a future without her. He'd tried the moment he learned of the offer--and each day after. But, when you've spent three years imagining a future with someone it's hard to blink it away in an instance. He wanted to confess he couldn't imagine a future where he wasn't in love with her.

"I can’t stand in the way of you and what's the best decision for your future," he chose to say instead. "If I do, then I’m not the person you believe me to be."

"You don't just make decisions about us without asking me," she began, her shifting world turning her words into a rushed and panicked response. "Long-distance relationships can work. Your parents made it work. They managed to stay strong and support each other even when they were miles apart."

He gently removed her hand from his chest. "If we stay together now and go long-distance, our choices might end up being influenced more by our relationship than by what’s truly best for each of us. Our careers, our futures—they could all be affected by this."

Her eyes welled up as she bit her lip to keep from crying. She thought about what might happen if the summer position turned into something more permanent. Deep down, she knew he was right. She had hesitated about the taking the opportunity, aware that she would turn down an extension without a second thought if it meant coming back to him sooner.

"But what if this isn’t the right choice? What if we..." Her voice came out barely above a whisper, tapering off as her eyes lifted to meet his. Jude's fell to his own shaking hands.

What if we never come back to each other?

As Jude struggled to find the right words, his fingers found their way to Kaira's knee, his touch gentle but firm. Kaira looked at him, and in that moment, she recognized the expression on his face—the same one he wore whenever he was resolute, determined to face a challenge head-on. It was a look of unwavering conviction, the kind he displayed when he had set his mind on a course of action, no matter how difficult or painful.

"If I ask you to stay, part of me knows you’ll resent me for it later."

Her mouth opened in protest. She should deny it. Tell him that she could never resent him, of all people, but nothing came out. She couldn't lie to him—not even a harmless fib. It was never in her nature. It also didn't help that Jude had been able to read her from the moment he laid eyes on her. According to him, she had a tell. Kaira had yet to figure out what it was. Which is why she chose not to respond. Or, it could be the lump rising, tightening her throat.

Kaira’s eyes filled with tears, face dropping into her hands, the sight of her crying hitting Jude in the chest. He had seen her cry on numerous occasions—when she was overwhelmed with stress, when she was moved by something deeply sentimental, and even in moments of shared joy. But tonight was different. This was the first time he had seen her cry because of his own actions, and it felt like a jagged knife twisting in his heart.

He fought to keep his own tears at bay, but the sound of her crying, the quiet, painful sobs, was almost unbearable. His touch instinctively reached for her, his fingers brushing against her cheek. Jude wanted to say something that might make this easier, but the words stuck in his throat.

Kaira's eyes avoided his as she stood up. She wiped at her eyes, trying to steady her breathing. "I need to get back to the party," she said softly.

His eyes followed her, and he struggled to hold back the tears that threatened to fall. He wanted to call out, to pull her back, but he knew he’d take back every word if he did.

Jude was on autopilot. The familiar streets blurred past him as he drove, his mind numb. His home came into view, a place filled with memories of simpler, happier times. He parked the car and trudged up the path, the night air cool against his tear-stricken face.

Inside, the house was quiet, the soft ticking of a clock the only sound. Jude closed the door behind him. His legs felt weak, barely able to support his weight. Jude sank onto the base of the stairs, his hands trembling as they moved to cover his face. The burning in his eyes intensified as tears welled up and spilled over, streaming down his cheeks uncontrollably. He let out a shuddering breath, the sound almost a sob, as he buried his face deeper into his hands.

The image of Kaira’s face swam before his closed eyes—the confusion, the way her eyes had filled with tears when he spoke the words that would change their futures forever. He could still hear her voice, trembling and filled with pain, echoing in his mind. Each tear felt like a searing brand, a physical manifestation of the heartbreak that was tearing through him.

His breaths came in ragged gasps, his heart throbbing with a relentless, sharp pain. It was a strange, foreign feeling. One that gripped his eyes shut. It felt as though his heart was slowly tearing, each beat more excruciating than the last.

Jude didn't notice the sound of approaching footsteps until a gentle hand touched his shoulder. He looked up, his vision blurred with tears, to see his mother standing there in her pajamas, concern etched across her face. She looked past Jude, her eyes scanning the entryway, expecting to see Kaira standing there. But realization set in as she looked back at her eldest son, struggling to loosen the tie around his neck--in hopes it'd make it easier to funnel the air through his tightened lungs.

"Jude?" she spoke softly, her voice filled with worry. "What’s wrong, sweetheart?"

Jude opened his mouth to speak, but the words caught in his throat. His chest ached unbearably, a sharp, relentless pain. He rubbed at it, trying to ease the strain, but it wouldn’t subside. His mom sat down beside him, wrapping her arms around him in a comforting embrace.

Jude managed to get out a choked, “Kaira,” before resting his head against his mom’s shoulder.

“Kaira was the first girl you ever truly loved, baby." She gently kissed his forehead and whispered. "And that pain you’re feeling in your chest—that’s your first heartbreak.”

if you'd like to be removed, or added, to future stories let me know.

tagging those who liked my jude taglist announcement post.

bellingham tags: @stephiii29 @inlikea-coolway @kindofaintrovert @your-tiny-love @avatarwifey @naya29 @uhmhahawhat @kjw678392 @blubsberries @barcafan2003 @everleigh76 @crnamaccaa @topslizzy @lewisroscoelove @smokey1404 @shewhoshantbenamedd @by7a @iuoiyr @tomhollandwhore @gl0ssgirl @dontworryboutit007 @simply-the-best23 @inlikea-coolway @Kmajuraaz @ninaxgavi @xxxstormyninixxx @stephiii29 @xenayi @viiadaa @jiminsbestiee

all stories: @darqchilddaydreamz @teardropzih @girlnred @wabi-sabi1090 @jad3djay @crowngold @cant-decide-at-this-moment @wiccanmetallicrose @themarkblues @gemini0410 @binooo98 @the-jer-bear @abbiesthings @trhett21 @trulysuccubus @leahnicole1219 @starrynite7114 @queenbeered @cocotheclown @oscars-wifeyyy @jennisdirtyimagines @ughdontbeboring @myakai13 @linziland13 @sadeyesgf @brattyfics @pearlkitten33 @tian-monique @megapeacelovemusic-blog @rosieposie0624 @appropriate-writers-name @ourlittlesecretsoveragain @beiroviski @chaneajoyyy @seize-the-droid @cutiebubbleboo @siempremamita @awkwardtayler @relaxing-najee @tomhardydallasstarsgirl @toni9 @cynderbelle @peoniarose @sincerelykas @making-starsdance

#let me know what you think?#the last part had me in feels #jude bellingham x oc #jude bellingham fic #jude bellingham x black reader #black fic writer #bells #Spotify

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bl00dst41ned · 1 year ago

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*.·:·.✦ my little secret (jude bellingham ‘series’ pt.3) ✦.·:·.*

pairing: jude bellingham x female oc (Mariah)

summary: in which Jude tries to do right but has to face his past actions

author's note: part 3 is out, part 4 on friday. masterlist here. tag list: @barcagirly @everlyjay @alwaysclassyeagle @urmotheris (if you want to be tagged, drop it wherever you want: post, repost, in my asks or comments)

series masterlist

word count: 909

4:12 PM

As minutes passed, Jude grew more and more nervous. He and Mariah had arranged to meet at a dessert shop at 4PM, after having a conversation through Instagram. He sensed how she still felt resentment, and he understood why. But he deeply wanted to do right and it started with apologizing in person. If she showed up.

Mariah was 12 minutes late and had not sent him any message. He just prayed she would show up.

His suffering was cut short by the bell ring of the door. Mariah appeared in the doorstep, still looking gorgeous in his eyes. His facial expression changed once he noticed the baby car seat she was pushing.

Jude definitely didn’t expect her to introduce them so quickly.

“Umm, hello” He got up to greet her, only to be ignored as she sat down and placed the car seat next to her. “Alright…”

“So” She started, her annoyance clearly heard. “What am I here for?”

“You might want to order something before- I’m cool, thank you”

Her tone was so soft yet her attitude was so harsh. Jude had hurted her deeply but it could not take away her softness.

“Okay…” said a distraught Jude. “First, how you been?”

“Jude, let’s not act like that” She instantly dodges his nice approach. “We’re here for Tami, right?”

He nodded in response, not letting out a word. He was scared to say the wrong thing.

“Tami is yours if this is what you wonder. I wanted to tell you immediately but someone decided to break my heart that night”

The last part of her sentence brought him back to that night. He remembered she did say she had to tell him something. He also remembered how disrespectful and rude he was towards her. How wrong he was. He could not feel anything else than remorse.

“Mariah, I’m sorry for the way I treated you”

Mariah expected him to apologize, but not genuine. As much as she did not want to believe him, she could only accept them, for the sake of her daughter.

“I appreciate you for that” She simply thanked “I can’t lie, that one hurted deeply but now that you’re here, I can’t take you away from Tami”

Jude saw in her response how much she grew from their relationship. She had became a mature woman who loved her child and was willing to keep thing in perspective for her. She impressed him and he regretted losing such an incredible person.

“Tami’s the apple of my eye.” Her tone got more serious at the mention of their baby. “If you promise to be there, do it”

Jude felt pressured by her words. He wanted to do good and repair his mistakes, hurting her being the biggest one.

“You hurted me, that was enough. Don’t do it to her”

“I’ll be the best, I promise” He looked straight in her eyes so she knew he meant it.

Just as they ended, little Tamara wailed in the car seat. Jude’s head snapped towards her. She had been silent all along, making him forget her presence. Her whines popped their bubble.

He watched Mariah get her in her hands, placing her in her arms. She gave the diaper bag to Jude, who hesitantly took it.

“Can you get me the bottle”

He did so, analyzing the content of the bag. He closed it and lifted her head, looking at Mariah and Tamara.

The young mother’s soft moves, Tamara’s mouth movements as she ate, her hands trying to grip the bottle, the way they looked at each other, with so much love. The sight touched Jude straight in his heart.

He suddenly felt like that’s what he wished forever. He wanted their daughter to look at him like that, to feel the love of a little human. He could only blame himself for it. He’s the one who first blocked her before she reciprocated the action. He messed up.

Mariah smirked noticing Jude’s face expression. She didn’t think he’d have matured after a year but was surprised. Seems like they both grew better people apart. Maybe they weren’t meant to be together.

Once Tami finished eating, Mariah burped her before placing her back in her arms. She looked back at Jude, whose eyes still haven’t moved from the baby.

“You wanna hold her?”

“Ye-yeah” He stuttered out of nervousness.

She got up, and went to his side.

“Place your arms like me”

He obeyed and Mariah placed Tami in his arms, making sure her neck was secured.

His eyes met his daughter’s, who looked back between him and her mother. Once Mariah went back to sit, she settled them on him. Jude’s eyes had diverted on her entire face, taking in her features. Her little hair was starting to curl. Her hands were constantly opening and closing as if she tried to grip something.

Jude’s body stiffed as soon as she started stir in his arms. Mariah let out a little chuckle, looking at the scene.

“Don’t worry, she won’t fall” She reassured with a smile on her face. “Long as you got her, it’s all good”

Though she was just talking about that moment, her words made Jude think. He had missed enough time, he needed to be there now. As long as he kept up with his promise, the three of them would be alright. Long as he got her, it’s all good

like and repost for support (hope you liked it)

masterlist for more

#written by bl00dst41ned #my little secret series #football #football fic #football imagine #football x oc #jude bellingham #jude bellingham fic #jude bellingham imagine #jude bellingham x oc #hope you like it

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drachonia · 2 months ago

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Multi-Villains x OC Inserts (Fluff)

𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬: a welcome home embrace from a few OC inserts that have been on my mind lately or will be featured in my posts for October this year. some fluff for everyone.

𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠: just fluff and a lil bit of blood/wound description.

William It was rare night that Elisabeth’s protection was needed. A disgruntled count managed to pull a gun on the group that had been dispatched for the evening’s mission, and his lover had reacted faster than he did, pulling him down in time but managing to get a bullet lodged in deep in her arm as a result.

One painful bullet dissection later and William was carrying her down the hall to his room. Her lovely eyes suddenly fluttered open as he opened the door to slip inside, then pushed it shut behind him with his foot.

“Mnn, Will?” She glanced up at him, her fingers sinking into his lapels, just over his rapidly beating heart. He pulled back the quilt of the bed with one hand and lowered her back onto the bed gingerly with the other, pressing a kiss to her forehead amongst her dark curls.

“We’re back at Crown?…how long was I out.”

Instead of answering, William gave a gentle smile, brushing her cheek as he sat beside her in bed, “My darling knight, my sweet lover…” he murmured reverently, pressing a tender kiss to her lips as her eyes begged for his attention.

“….Welcome back.”

Harrison Harrison wiped his hands on his pants with a light sigh as he made it a point to stick to London’s shadows during and after a mission until it was light once more. Out of habit, he strode down her street, glancing up to see that the cafe’s warm light was still very much burning long past midnight.

“I should go back.” He sighed, but despite his lone words, his feet thumped against the street as he made his way to the door, lightly pushing against it and entering with the quiet ding of the bell, seeing Jesse hustling behind the counter, only to pause when she heard the chime.

Her fluffy red hair stopped bouncing with movement, hazel eyes narrowing happily as she put down the prepped pastry in her hands and bounding around the corner to run and jump into his arms, legs wrapped around his midsection as he caught her with an ‘oof!’

“Missed ya.” She nuzzled him with a sigh of content, her fingers threading possessively through his milk-and-tea locks. Harry couldn’t resist the urge to press a trail of kisses up the side of her neck, drawing a giggle from her as she tugged at his jacket.

“Care to test some sweets for tomorrow?” Her expression matched his as she gazed at him with gentle eyes.

“I’d love to.”

Ellis Nerves wracked him slightly as he waited at the entrance to Crown, sitting and tapping his foot on the hard floor. There was no mission tonight but Bryn was out late with her family for once, something Ellis wanted to give her some space with.

Seeing her as she opened the door, a soft smile on her face, he stood and made his way to her in only a few strides, sweeping her up in his arms and nuzzling his face in her neck. Her heart beat with his at a quick, excited pace.

“How did it go?” He whispered, grip tightening around her waist as he stared up at her with tender eyes. The smile that he got in response melted his insides with how sweet it was, feeling its warmth in the flush of his own cheeks.

“Good! Emile wanted to talk business, thank goodness Sveta and Thomas kept him from it. Camille didn’t ask me to say hello to Jude for once which is a bit odd, but…sisters, what can you do?” She smiled, looking up at him with a sigh. Words bubbled out of his throat, soft and happy.

“Welcome back. I missed you.”

Jude He walked down to that one street corner near the harbor, a calm settling in his bones for once as he put out his cigarette. His fingertips lightly scratched the barrier as he sat there.

“Tch. What are ya doing…” he muttered to himself, stretching his neck as a pair of heels approached him in the night, their owner coming into the light of the street lamps with her ink black hair shimmering beneath. Pale periwinkle eyes met his as she approached him.

“So now you’ll talk to me.”

He scoffed, a sarcastic smirk on his face “If you’re gonna be an inconsiderate princess, do ya really wanna talk.”

“My apologies Mr. Jazza.” She gave a mock curtsy, her own grin tugging at her lips, he took note that they were neatly painted a shade he imagined wasn’t so far from her actual lip color…and then he immediately smacked himself internally for thinking about such a thing.

“Welcome back, princess, ‘know you said you’d be out on business, didn’t think you’d come back so soon.” He started off sweet, but ended on his usual sour, sarcastic notes. With gentle eyes and a shy but happy smile, she looked up at him. What Camille said next as she stood next to him threw him for a loop.

“Glad to be back, I missed your company.”

“Tch. Damn princess…”

Alfons Another mission turned messy. The gore never really phased Alfons, honestly, the reality of such violent acts were etched into his psyche by now. Ugh, he craved an escape again. When would he be able to rest, he wondered? The man sighed heavily as he walked in Crown castle’s doors, loosening his cravat with an annoyed grimace. Surely she wouldn’t want to see—

“Alfons!”

Oh hell.

That familiar wave of hair flashed in front of him, her body colliding against his chest as she threw her arms around his neck tight.

“Darling, I am terribly filthy. Surely you can see that?”

“Mhm. I dont care.” She huffed happily next to his ear, nuzzling her chin atop his shoulder as the mud and blood slowly soaked into her pale blue dress. He couldn’t help but smile weakly, tightening his grip on her waist as he held her just a bit closer. His heart ached sweetly and his fingers tightened their grip on her as he managed a soft sigh, whether it was from exasperation or pleasure he didn’t know.

“Ah. I see.”

Nika A very noticeable copper odor was present among Nika’s cologne this evening, white jacket sprayed with a fresh layer of blood on one side as he ran a hand through his hair. The mission this evening was nothing fun, unfortunately, but he knew something else could be.

Just then, the clack of heels caught his attention, head snapping up slightly to see his partner walking down the hall toward him with a severe look on her face. He was about try and to duck out of her grasp when her soft hands drew him in close by the jaw and a cloying kiss pulled him right back.

Lips left his with a faint noise and Nika glanced down at her with slightly narrowed eyes, silently asking her what she did that for.

“I’m happy you’re home safe, liebling.” The pink that heated up his cheeks was something he tried to hide as he nuzzled into her neck and shoved off his jacket as he drew her in, eagerly pressing kisses to her cheeks and neck as Sigrid protested with light thumps to his chest. Her half-hearted curses filled the entryway as he held her to his chest tight and peppered her in all the kisses he could muster.

Darius The gentle clack of a metal cane on wooden floors caught Evelyn’s attention almost instantly as she jumped up from her seat and ran toward the door.

“Welcome back!” She beamed, reaching her hands up to gently cup his cheeks and pull him down for a kiss, one that the blonde happily returned two times over, pulling away to a breathless and slightly flustered lover.

“How cute, that flustered face never ceases to delight.” He cradled her chin between his thumb and forefinger with a confident glint in his eyes,

“Ahem.”

The two looked up to see Nika with a slightly more reserved look than usual as he stared over at Darius, “I don’t mind seeing the little bird dote on you, — it’s quite cute — but I don’t think Ring can handle much more of it.” He jerked a thumb over to where the younger Schwartz twin had both eyes covered with his big hands, parting a couple fingers to check if the displays of affection were over yet before hiding again.

“Ah. Then excuse us.” Darius beamed, a slight edge to that gentle smile as he lightly spun his lover by the waist, “I can check on my beloved fairy in private.” He murmured only for her to hear, lips ghosting her ear as he watched Eve turn bright red with a seemingly innocent smile as they walked up the stair.

#ikemen villains #ikevil #drac writes #ikevil william #ikevil harrison #ikevil ellis #ikevil jude #ikevil alfons #ikevil nika #ikevil darius

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moongumi · 6 days ago

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if anyone wants to read my Bell/OC x Adler it's on AO3 under the same username MOONGUMI!

Theres a few parts out and I'm loving writing it, if you're looking for TOXIC, angsty shii, and some WILLIAM 'CASE' CALDERON love.

It's set during BO6, very much age-gap, and many love to my boy Case. It follows the story of the game until the end, that's when I will add my own thing and make it even more toxic xd.

It's about Bell/OC called Jude 'Veil' Gray, she works for Livingstone until old friend Marshall needs help. Basically Adler knows it's Bell, she looks like Bell but acts nothing like it, her accent is different etc and the plot unfolds... : )

#adlerbell #russell adler x oc #russell adler x bell #russell adler fic #russell adler smut

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devil-doll13 · 2 years ago

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Moodboard Masterlist 📸

Slashers:

Brahms Heelshire

My OCs:

Abigail Williams

Witches’ Valley ⚡️ (medieval au)

Of Blood And Wine 🍷

Saturnine 🪐

Nurse’s Office 🧸 (orphanage au w/ Selena & Odile)

Death, Judgement & Three of Swords 🃏

Judith “Jude” Bell

Dawnrazor 🌅

Gold Dust Woman ⚜️

In Our Angelhood 👼

Mary On A Cross ✝️

I’d Make A Deal With God ⛪️

Death, Judgement & Three of Swords 🃏

Zachariah “Zach” Johnson

Demon Cleaner 👿

Psalm 23 📖

Dawnrazor 🌅

Cold Case In Harlem 🗞️

Death, Judgement & Three of Swords 🃏

Drinks of Choice (Zach & Cathryn) 🩸

Maxwell “Max” Holt

Givin’ The Dog A Bone 🦴

Living After Midnight 🌉

I Was A Teenage Werewolf 🕹️

Things’ll Work Out Just Fine 🐕

Strange Girl ✨ (Max x Izzy)

We Will Need Some Pizza Too 🍕(Max And Cylas)

The Fool, The Moon & Five of Cups 🃏

Ciarán 🗡️

Deathrider 💀

Adam 🌱

Treehugger 🌳

Mountains of Mars 🌋

Brand New Person 🌿

Nox Library 📚

Item 411-1

Other People’s OCs:

I’ll Be Seeing You 🕊️ (Tilly Maynard belonging to @flower-crowned-lady)

Why Don’t You Do Right? 💋 (Lauren Hayworth belonging to @flower-crowned-lady)

Caged Bird 🐦 (Anansi belonging to @flower-crowned-lady)

Ready To Blow 🔪 (Cylas Kier belonging to @vincent-sinclair-deserved-better)

Fascination Street 🌹(Manon “Doe Eyes” Driftwood belonging to @myers-meadow)

When The Sun Hits ☀️ (Eleonora Mason belonging to @rottent33th

They Say I’m Sick 🦇 (Olivier Benoit belonging to @rottent33th)

Snake Dance 🐍 (Griffin Marks belonging to @rottent33th)

By The Sea 🌊 (Calder Beachum belonging to @rottent33th)

Postscript🦞(Calder Beachum belonging to @rottent33th)

Graveflower 🪦 (Milo Vess belonging to @slaasherslut)

Graveyard Shift💀 (Milo Vess belonging to @slaasherslut)

Poltergeist 👻 (Milo Vess belonging to @slaasherslut)

Ouroboros ⚕️(Mischa belonging to @myers-meadow)

Luna 🌕 (Selena “Ghost” Firefly belonging to @vincent-sinclair-deserved-better)

Persephone 🦢 (Odile belonging to @solmints-messyocdiary)

Black Cathedral ⛪️ (The Priest belonging to @solmints-messyocdiary)

By Moots:

Abigail Williams

The Devil’s Mark 🖤 (by @rottent33th)

Shadow Dancer 🔮 (by @slaasherslut)

Abby x Knight!Clay 🗡️ (by @rottent33th, medieval au)

Style Moodboard Request (done by @myers-meadow)

Judith “Jude” Bell

Style Moodboard Request (done by @myers-meadow)

Maxwell “Max” Holt

Hunted Down 🐾 (by @rottent33th)

#moodboard #masterlist #my stuff

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graygvf · 2 years ago

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You’re The One

Part Seven

Pairing: Josh x Sage (female OC)

Word Count: 2.8k words in this chapter

Summary: Sage is trying to adjust to her new life in Frankenmuth by auditioning for the school play. But will her past hinder her from reaching for her dreams? Or will Josh be there to lend a helping hand?

Warnings: Some mentions of mental health

Moodboard created by @parizonefourfour (Thank you for being my bestie <3)

MASTER POST

PLAYLIST

The rest of my classes move by slowly. I keep my headphones in my ears all day to keep my mind off Jude. I spend lunch alone in my car, not wanting to have to talk to Cora yet about everything. She would normally be upset that I wouldn't open up to her, mainly out of pure fear that I may begin to recluse myself again. But I told her that I would talk to her about everything at work so that I would have time to process this morning before needing to express my feelings further.

After school I run out to my car, bracing myself against the drizzling rain and cold until I can rush to open my car door. Normally, I would have time to go home and change before going to work, but today I was scheduled thirty minutes after school got out. I start my car before putting on my seatbelt, giving my 90s era jeep time to warm up before I start the drive to Clothesline.

I start to reverse my car from the parking spot, and I suddenly slam on my breaks as someone begins to rapidly knock on my driver's side window. I look over, heavily breathing from the sudden rush of adrenaline. It's Josh, his curls being weighed down by the rain collecting on each tendril of hair.

I start to crank down my window, only opening it halfway to prevent the rain from getting inside, "Hey, do you think we could talk before you head home." His eyes look at me eagerly, it kills me to have to remove that cheeriness from them, but I don't have a choice.

"I'm sorry Josh, I can't. I'm going to be late to work if I don't leave soon." His smile falls along with his shoulders.

"Oh, it's okay, we can talk later. Have a good night, Sage," He turns, picking up his speed from a walk to a jog to get out of the rain and into his truck.

My eyes dart to my rearview mirror, watching until he starts heading out of the parking lot. Once his truck is out of eyesight, I start my trek to Clothesline. The drive isn't very long, maybe fifteen minutes at the most, but I needed the extra time to calm myself and get ready for my shift in my car before everything begins.

I get into work that day and start mindlessly sorting through the donation pile, trying to come up with the right way to tell Cora what happened when she gets in for her shift. The words with my mother spin through my head repeatedly as I carelessly sort everything into different piles. The more I think the more guilty I begin to feel. Her words were given to me out of love, not out of hate. I know she really means the best, but I only started feeling normal again around the time school started. I had no intention of trying to find anyone while I finished out high school. I even had really no intention on focusing my time on anyone besides myself and drama, but that only changed when Cora fell into my life.

Feeling the guilt building up inside, I pull out my phone and start to type out an apology text to my mom. I only get to type out the first few words when I hear the ringing from the small tin bell above the shop's front door. I lock the phone screen and quickly shove it into my pocket, hoping whichever customer came in didn't see me. I sigh and lean against the counter when I see that it was just Cora, coming in for her shift.

"What's making you look all scared?" She says to me as she pulls off her raincoat and hangs it onto the coat rack by the entrance.

"I thought you were a customer; I didn't want them to see me on my phone. But I guess it's only you so I can go back to what I was doing," Smirking at her I pull my phone back out and continue to type my apology to my mother.

Cora laughs and walks behind the counter next to me, clocking in to work before trying to sneak a peek at my screen, "Who are you texting? Joooooooshhhh?"

Pulling my phone away so she can't see I type out the last few words and hit send. I turn around and cross my arms, "No it isn't Josh. It's my mom. Besides I can't even text Josh because I don't have his phone number."

"That doesn't mean you wouldn't if you could." She smirks at me as her words make me blush.

"You're ridiculous Cora," that's when I glance up at the clock to check the time, "And you're also thirty minutes early today, why?" I cross my arms and give her a condescending look. One that she knows all too well.

"Oh, don't look at me like that, you know why I'm here early. I need to know why my best friend avoided me all day today. And why she sat around and looked like someone had just stolen her pet hamster." I can't help but laugh at her response, turning away from her I start to sort through the donated clothing again, an attempt to try and get my laughing to stop.

She slaps her hand down on the pile of clothes, keeping me from being able to continue my work, "Spill it, Sage Walsh," Refusing to lift her hand no matter how much I tried.

I keep my head down and take a deep breath as I start to tell her the full story, "I had a fight with my mom this morning... or well I guess it was more of me being angry and storming out on her this morning."

"Mmmhmm, and why is that?" she knows I wouldn't just storm out on my mom for no reason, my mom is my best friend.

"She brought up Jude..." I hear her sigh, her arm pulling me against her. Saying his name out loud brings tears to my eyes and I let my body melt into her side in an effort to return her hug.

"What brought him up? You haven't said anything about him in a while... this all seems so out of place from her," I pull away from her grip and lean against the counter, shielding my body with my arms as I cross them against my chest.

"I came out of my room dressed nice and she asked if it was for a boy. When I told her no, she brought up how it had been so long since I had been with anyone and she thought it was time for me to put myself back out there." Cora stared at me, not speaking at all. She began chewing on her lip, obviously mulling over my mother's words, and trying to find the right words to say without upsetting me.

"Well, Sage... she's not wrong." I groan and roll my eyes and my head tilts back with them, making myself be as dramatic as I can. "All I'm saying is that it's been months since you guys broke up, and I think she's right. It would be good for you to try and put yourself out there again."

I turn from her and start mindlessly sorting out the clothes again, "I know."

My words obviously shock her, it's rare that Cora is unable to come at me with a quick remark, "Is this you finally admitting that I'm right for once? Without even fighting it?" She has a chuckle hidden behind her words, and I can hear her smile as she speaks.

"Yes, for once you are right, but I never said I was actively going to try for anything."

"What do you mean by that?" Cora stands next to me as a few customers start walking into the store, her words becoming quieter so that they aren't tempted to listen in.

"What I mean is that I understand that I need to get over him, but that doesn't mean I'm looking for the love of my life right now."

I hear her groan a little before she finally starts to speak again, "Well I guess that's fine, at least now you'll finally start talking about what guys are hot in school." I nudge her shoulder with my own and laugh at her response, us both becoming quiet as we continue sorting through each donated item.

It had been an unusually busy day that day. Cora usually dealt with talking to customers while I stocked the shelves and took in deliveries. Today had been so busy that I started letting people just leave things on the counter while we both ran around helping anyone who needed it. It took at least two hours before it was calm enough that Cora and I could take a break behind the counter. We both started sorting through the piles of things that had been left on the counter for donations, going through the clothes and old movies to make sure there wasn't any extreme damage to them. That's when my heart skipped a beat, I pulled open a plastic bin to find what looked like at least fifty vinyl records.

"Oh my gosh, it's been forever since we got anything like this," I run my fingers through the cardboard files and pull one out randomly. The bright yellow of The Jimi Hendrix Experience seemed to have never been touched. I pulled out the record and checked it, both sides looking like dust had never even touched them.

"Damn and they're all so nice, I wonder why anyone would want to give these away," I keep my eyes locked at the box as I flip through the different vinyls, paying close attention to the ones I'd buy once I got my next paycheck.

After making sure that they were all good enough to put onto the shop floor I pick up the box and head over to our usually small record section, "I'll organize these if you want to start on the clothes?"

"Sounds like a plan," Cora says, already starting to add price tags to a massive mountain of shirts. When I make it over to the music section, I start to remove each vinyl one by one, making sure each one is placed in the right section as carefully as possible.

I make it about a fourth of the way through the box before I hear the bell above the door ring again. I don't look up at the sound of the bell, Cora usually being the one to help if anyone needs it. Putting all of my focus into the records, I look at each one again before putting it away. Thinking about which songs are the best on each album before adding them onto the shelf. I almost drop The Beatles White Album when I feel a tapping on my shoulders. My adrenaline rushes through me as I watch it start to fall, but the hands that just tapped me grab it before it can hit the floor.

"Oh my gosh, thank you so much! You're a lifesaver," When I look up all I can see are two brown eyes that seem so familiar but also so new. I look at this stranger up and down before I realize who it is.

"No problem, I can't a beauty like that break, can I?" His eyes look over the record before placing it into the spot designated for it.

"I... is there something I can help you with?" I stammer, my words coming out a lot faster than I mean them to.

"Yeah actually, I'm Jake, I think you're friends with my brother Josh?" My hearts start pounding and my cheeks start to feel hot.

"Yeah, I'm friends with Josh, is there something wrong?" He smiles at me and turns and points towards the men's clothing section. Josh is standing with his brother Sam and another boy. This one I don't recognize as well, very tall with long brown hair that is almost as curly as my own.

Jake turns back to me, a smirk replacing his bold smile. "Nothing is wrong other than he won't leave me alone about you, do you think I can get your number for him?" I move quickly and hide my body behind the record stand, trying to hide from Josh. Jake follows me, laughing.

"He knows I work here now?" I can't hide the panic in my voice.

"Wow there..." Jake's smirk falls, and his arms fly up in a defensive position, "He isn't stalking you or anything, I promise. I only know you work here become I come almost every Saturday, though you aren't the one who normally checks me out," His smirk returns before he finishes his sentence, "Cora normally helps me when I'm here."

My eyes fly to Cora, who seems to have been staring at us this whole time. Her emotions seem confused, but she leaves us to our conversation. My eyes fly back to Jake, and I start to relax, "Can I see your phone?" Jake obliges and I type my phone number into his cellphone quickly.

"Thank you so much! Hopefully, this helps him keep a little quieter at home... or well as quiet as Josh can be," Jake turns from me and heads over to his brothers and their friend, I crouch down and watch until they all decide to leave the store. Waiting until their car is out of the parking lot before I stand back up, stretching all the stiffness out of my muscles from the uncomfortable position.

By the time I'm fully standing, Cora's face is only a couple inches from mine, "Now what was that all about?" I jump back and start laughing before answering her question.

"That was Jake, Josh's brother." Cora rolls her eyes and crosses her arms.

"Sage I was born and raised in Frankenmuth; I know who the Kiszkas are." My laughing settles at her sarcastic tone.

"Jake came to ask me for my phone number, for Josh." Cora's eyes widen and a Cheshire cat smile beams from her lips.

"JOSH KISZKA ASKED FOR YOUR NUMBER," Cora screams and I hush her before she can continue to yell anymore.

"Well not really Josh, Jake did. It's probably just for our project, He probably needs it so we can start working on it." It's Cora who laughs this time, not me. Her eyes look at me with disbelief by my statement.

"So, you're telling me that the boy who begged me to let him drive you home yesterday sent his brother all the way here just so he can ask you for your number? And it's only for a project?" Cora snorts at her own comment, "Sure Sage that's why."

I bite my lip and decide that I won't tell her that Josh didn't even know Jake was asking, I don't need her to ask me a million questions that I don't even really know the answer to.

The rest of my shift was slow and uneventful, apart from random comments about Josh from Cora. When my shift is over, I grab my things from the coat rack by the door, "Bye Cora, I'll see you tomorrow!"

She smiles, "You better tell me when Josh texts you tonight!"

"Love you too Cora," I chuckle as I make my way out of the door. The cold wind and rain bite against my skin as I run to my car, flipping the heater on full blast as soon as I start it. The first few chords of, "Dream A Little Dream of Me," start filling up my car when my phone vibrates for the first time. It vibrates three more times before I make it home.

I sit in the heat of my car before going into my house. I avoid looking at my phone, not knowing who texted scares me, but knowing who it probably scares me even more. I take in three deep breaths before picking up my phone and looking at my screen. All three texts are from a not-so-unknown number.

Josh

Hey Sage, this is Josh!

Josh

Jake gave me your number; I hope that was okay.

A few minutes passed before he texted me again.

Josh

I'm sorry if I upset you, I really didn't mean to.

My heart fell at his last text. He never did anything wrong.

I look up at my front door, knowing my mom is waiting for me on the other side. I lock my phone screen, not sending Josh a reply before getting out of the car and going to the house. I need to talk to my mom before I talk to him.

Sighing as I place my hand on the doorknob, whispering to myself, "Guess like tonight is the night I apologize to everyone."

______________________________________________________________

Taglist:

@parizonefourfour @kenzmeehan @heatmyfleet @thefifthsidetome @chipbunkerswhore @weightofdreamz @fvxni @mnmbmswabp @joshkiskal0ver @angelqueen99

#gretavanfleet #GVF #gvf fanfiction #josh gvf #josh gvf fluff #josh gvf fanfiction #josh kiszka fanfiction

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witchofinterest · 4 years ago

Text

Ocs

Psych:

Fic title: the trick is to keep breathing?

Willow Spencer (fc: Victoria Moroles)

Marley Perez (fc: Daniella Nieves)

???

Supernatural:

Fic title: please stop my relentless daughter

Dinah laurel Winchester

Jeremy? (fc: Vincent karthriser??)

Serena sparks (Rowena daughter, Kevin love interest??) fc:kat McNamara or Madison Davenport?

Zoe - Reaper (reader? Reed? Reid?)

Prodigal son:

Aubrey belle hart (fc: Sarah shahi)

Grimm

Title: villeneuve

Lorelai “Rory” burkhardt (Willa Holland???)

Helen (damonfuer) ( first interaction based on knife trick)

? (Willahara)

Merlin: (ad astra per aspera)

Wakely

Buffy:

John Jax

Angel:

Fic title: angel investigations (A&j/AJ investigations) know it well??

Josette Jax

The umbrella academy:

Ivy lane

Sep fic

Keke kennedy fc: Kat graham)

The gifted:

Lynn Allen “Heart” (kaylee frost) (change Lynn’s physical mutation?)

Empath mutant rival

Lorna Dane little sis gravity also Andy li) Luna/lane/Lana/Lori/Miranda “Mira/Mandy/Mimi ” “miracle” Dane? Needs mutant name (zero?) (lady gravity?) (revolution?) (orbit?) (Luna? Lady Luna?)

Tvd:

Rylee O’Connell (Virginia gardener)

Akira Ito

Evander Salvatore (Cameron Kennedy)

Charmed:

Poppy Halliwell (fc: kaylee Bryant)

Separate story

Title: yellow? Dandelion? Heads or tails?

Sophie?? Half-demon/half-witch (Penelope Mitchell

Charmed 2.0

Iris Maxine “Max” Vera fc:

My babysitters a vampire:

Charlotte “Charlie” Cruz (fc: Paris Berelc?)

Legacies:

Cassandra “Cassie” (Ngo) Lockwood (fc: Lana condor)

Emmett Lockwood (fc )

Elenor “Ellie” something-Lockwood (fc)

Lab rats:

acacia “casey” clover

Teen wolf:

Christina “Chris” (Hunter) (mom friend)

The order:

Louise “Lois” Iim (fc: Kristen Kruek)

Titans:

Katherine “Kay” Mulaney

Poi???? Variables

Cj ardnt (parallel to the machnne, maybe Tm I Initials)

Ouat:

Georgiana mills

Freya “Faye” periwinkle

Nancy drew:

Judith “Jude” drew (?):Danielle rose russel?)

Heroes:

Title: bury me dead

Olive Henry

Heroes reborn:

???

Leverage:

estella “este” Jin

Daybreak:

? (Fc: lyrica okano)

Scorpion:

Veronica “Ronnie” Curtis fc: Jenna Ortega

The flash/legends:

Sam Snart (eventually)

E2!Theresa “junior/tess/a” hwang (x Jesse)

Sam and Wally spin-off after legends season 3, they were partners in flashpoint and make appearances in the flash

Prison break:

Selena talia wu Aka TW

October faction:

Bettina “Bette” zhu (fc: Leah lewis)

Arrow:

Elizabeth Erin “Lizzie” lance? Little canary fc giorgia whigham (Quentin forces her to take self defense) (title: behind the eyes?)

Gotham:

Lara Covin fc: holly Marie combs

Kevin Covin (father murderer(

Constance “Connie” Covin fc: Ciara bravo (crime princess??) (father, Mario Calvi)

Sara Essen niece fc: Megan Tandy

Fiona g (final girl) fc:

Fiona’s resurrected friend?

community:

jennifer “cat” winger

stargirl:

raegen “rae” patrisha knight

xmen:

alexandra “alex” logan aka speck

sydney summers aka sparrow

daredevil:

wilhemina “mina” woods murdock

nikita:

oc: birdie oshiro

#ignore thos pleasee #future ref #oc list #ocs

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80steenmovie · 6 years ago

Text

Single: Part One

Billy Hargrove x OC

part two

Summary: in the days leading up to when billy would officially meet your parents, you reflected on the the events and the time you had spent together.

Word count: 3.8k

Warnings: none

a/n: ahh I did a thing!! my first billy story so don't be too hard on me but tips and constructive criticism are always welcome. there's probably some common writing errors but I edited so quickly and needed to get this out already. I know this first part barely has any billy but good things come to those who wait I promise!! (also thought I should mention that what initially sparked this idea in my head was the song single by the neighbourhood so that’s where I got the title. it was initially going to be a short little thing but here we are.)

________

Attending an all girls private school meant no interaction with the opposite sex, just how your parents wanted it. That meant for eight hours a day, they didn’t have to worry about anything their precious daughter was doing besides preparing to attend an Ivy League school. But the other sixteen hours, aside from sleeping in your bed and being at home with them, they had no control over. As long as your parents believed you were at a friends house studying or staying after school for college prep classes you were free from their realms and were free to do whatever, with whomever.

February 1985

Hawkins High was located in the town right next to yours, but was only a few blocks down the road from where the town borders met. Rumours had circulated their way from Hawkins High into the halls of St. Jude that their was going to a huge party this weekend, the party of the century some were speculating.

You were at your locker, collecting your books for last period when a petite girl with short, brown hair jumped next to you.

“Three words. Party. You. Me. Going.”

“Lexi, that’s four words.”

“Oh. Yeah. Gee, how the hell did I even get into this school?” She joked.

Lexi always made you laugh, right when you needed a good laugh, and sometimes when you shouldn’t be laughing which was admittedly the times when you wanted to laugh the most. You bonded at orientation over the fact that neither of you were thrilled to be attending a school made up of a hundred percent estrogen and zero percent testosterone. For only being 5’3” Lexi was a fireball who wouldn’t let anyone stand in her way, and wouldn’t let a second go by without defending you against anyone. If it weren’t for Lexi, you might have still thought you would have had no life outside of school. But from that time freshman year when she invited you over for a “sleepover”, only to find out that there was no sleepover and her plan was sneak into a Hawkins High football game, you knew the next four years were going to be anything but dull with Lexi by your side.

“There’s parties all the time, what makes this one so special?” You speculated.

“Don’t tell me you’re going to make me go all by myself.”

“No, never. It’s just another lie I have to make up to tell my parents. It was fun for awhile, but now it’s starting to feel like a chore.”

“I’ll make up something and tell them for you.”

“No, I don’t want you to do that. But you never answered my question.”

“Shit girl, I don’t know. Apparently some kid who lives in a big ass house with a pool is having it as his house because his parents are out of town.”

A girl passing by in the hall was holding a bright yellow piece of paper and Lexi didn’t let her go by without checking it out. She quickly asked the girl if she could borrow it and you and Lexi quickly skimmed the flyer for you both to see Lexi’s assumption to be confirmed.

“party @ the harrington house

saturday @ 8

b there or b square

food and drinks 4 dayzzz”

“Be there or be square. How original.” You quipped.

“Okay so whoever this Harrington kid is isn’t acing English but no one makes flyers for a party unless it’s going to be insane.”

“Lex...I don’t know…”

Lexi cupped her hands together and with a puppy dog face pleaded, “Please, Anna. I promise if it blows we’ll leave.”

“Not the puppy dog face, come on.”

With that, Lexi pursed her lip and bowed her head even more than before.

“Damn you, you know I always fall for the puppy dog face.”

“So you’ll go?”

“Yes, I’ll go.” You sighed.

“Yay! I promise you won’t regret it!” She bubbled and wrapped you in a hug almost knocking you over. “Meet up with you after class!”

As you watched Lexi trot off to her next class, your mind started to wander and you hoped you wouldn’t regret this decision as Lexi had promised.

______

Last period seemed to drag on for forever and a day as you were scrambling your brain for a feasible lie to tell your parents what your whereabouts would be tomorrow night. It would be the third time this week you were going out after dark and you worried your parents would get suspicious and start asking questions. You’ve been to a handful of parties before and had no problem telling your parents you would be at Lexi’s or going to a study group but there was a pit in your stomach telling you this wouldn’t be like the other parties and things would be...different.

“Anna!”

You had spaced out from your mind racing and hadn’t noticed that the bell rung and Lexi was standing in front of you at your desk.

“Are you good? When I got here you were staring at the ground and I said your name like three times.”

Still collecting your thoughts and being pushed back to reality you tried to form a coherent sentence by opening your mouth. But your brain wasn't cooperating and nothing came out.

Lexi could tell you were troubled and sat in the desk next to you. “Are you still worried about talking to your parents?”

It only just now occured to you that for almost three years the majority of your conversations with your parents were based off of lies, lies that you created. If it were up to them you would be in school all day until it was time for dinner and then to sleep for seven to eight hours. You couldn't live your life like that. And after the one time freshman year when you asked them if you could go to a small party and their reaction was anything but reasonable, that's when the lies started. But their disciplinary nature drove you to that, and you couldn't possibly try to reason with them now. Yet still, in the back of your head you feared a day would come when they find out and you would be on house arrest for the rest of your life. There was anxiety looming over you at the thought of having to tell another lie straight to their faces.

You lifted your head and shifted your body to look at Lexi and said, “Honestly, for the first time in three years I'm scared to death.”

“Hey, I'll do all the talking. You just stand there and nod in agreement. Deal?”

You couldn't help but smile and let out a small laugh at Lexi’s sly manner, “Deal.”

______

“Mom? Dad? I'm home. Lexi’s here.”

The only response was the echo of your announcement.

“Well, they're not home so I guess we’ll have to tell them later.”

Lexi had a big grin on her face and wagged her finger at you, “Ohhh no you don't. We're telling them tonight and you're not getting out of it. What happened to what we agreed to?” She protested.

You sighed out of defeat and pursed your lips as there was no way you could back out of an agreement with Lexi.

“Remember. I’ll do all the dirty work. You don’t have to do anything except stand there and look pretty. Got it?”

“Got it.” You hesitantly agreed.

“Good. Cause a car just pulled into the driveway.”

Your eyes went wide and your heart rate accelerated, you quickly whisked around to see your father grabbing his briefcase out of the backseat and headed towards the front door.

Lexi grabbed your hand and pulled you towards the kitchen. She took hold of your shoulders to place you on a seat at the island then grabbed a glass out of the cabinet.

“Anna? Are you home?” Your father called.

“In the kitchen dad!” You replied.

You were leaning on the island with one hand under your chin and the other tapping the marble. Lexi was filling a glass with water and shot a quick glance at you assuring you that she had it under control.

A tall, tan man with blonde hair that had recently started graying at the roots entered the room. He set his briefcase on the island before greeting you with a kiss on top of your head. The most your father ever greeted you with was a warm smile. This was extremely unusual, but you went along with it as if everything was perfectly normal.

“Hello, sweetheart. How are you?” He greeted while holding his hand to your cheek.

You placed your hand on his and replied, “Alright, Dad. How are you?”

“Just alright? Is everything okay at school?”

“It's okay, there's just a lot to do before spring break.”

“Ah, of course. Spring break. I had been meaning to talk to you about that.”

Lexi broke in before the conversation between you and your father went on any longer, “I apologize for interrupting Mr. Prescott, but there's actually something we wanted to talk to you about first if that's okay.”

“Oh Lexi, you were so unusually quiet over there I almost didn't notice you.” He griped.

You knew Lexi well enough that if it were any other time she wouldn't let that snide remark from your father pass, but she needed to be on his good side and let it slide.

With a wide smile almost through gritted teeth, she mustered up a reply to his remark. “Again, I sincerely apologize for interrupting. As I was saying, there's something Anna and I would like to talk to you about. It's actually my idea so if you're not okay with it, don't put any of the blame on her. I'm solely accountable.”

“Go on.” He muttered.

“St. Jude and Hawkins High are conducting a joint bake sale to raise money and I was put in charge for St. Jude’s contribution. My mom is an amazing baker and I thought if Anna, myself and my mom all put our heads together we could whip up some great ideas for the bake sale.”

You were unaware of what Lexi was going to prepare to tell your parents until just now and you sat there in shock at the performance she just gave. Your mouth was slightly agape and Lexi motioned to you to close it as your father turned his attention towards you.

“Anna, did you agree to this?” He questioned.

Quickly closing your mouth you replied to your father’s question, “Uh, yeah. You know I’m always looking for ways to get more involved at school. Lexi had this great idea and I thought she should pitch it to you.”

Before he said anything else he squinted his eyes and furrowed his brows staring at the ground for a moment and for a split second you were worried he would ask more questions out of suspicion. Your eyes darted to Lexi who was raising her brows in confusion, then back to your father.

You couldn’t bear the dead silence in the room and finally spoke up. “Dad?”

“That’s fine. Do you need money for supplies?” He said flatly.

You were surprised at his question, you were given a monthly allowance which was more than enough and never asked for more unless it was something extremely important, which was rare. But not knowing what may come of tomorrow night, and wanting to be fully prepared, you didn’t hesitate to take him up on his offer.

“Actually, yeah. That would be great.”

“Take whatever you need out of the safe and make sure to close it back up when you’re done.” He murmured while gazing at the floor.

Still a bit taken aback by his offer, you slid off your chair and at first only lazily putting your arms around him then pulling yourself closer and resting your chin on his shoulder. He hesitated before putting his arms around your waist and lightly pressing his lips to your cheek. Your father was never one for warm embraces, the most affection you ever exchanged was a cheek to cheek kiss, and that was a rarity. To your parents, a hug was barely touching the other with at least a few inches in between them. Your mother would lightly place her hands on your father’s shoulders and your father would place his hands under your mother’s elbows while their lips touched as if there was a force pulling them apart. Sometimes you wonder how you even got here.

“Come on Anna, we need to start brainstorming.” Lexi interjected.

Hesitantly pulling away from your father you gave him a warm smile and said, “Thanks Dad, for everything. I love you.”

“I love you too dear.” He replied with a faint smile in return.

You almost forgot Lexi was still standing in the corner of the kitchen sipping her water before she uncomfortably cleared her throat.

“You better get going before it gets late.” Your father stated.

“Oh and one last thing, Mr. Prescott. We’re probably going to be up late whipping up baked goods, so is it okay if Anna spends the night?” Lexi asked.

“Yes, Lexi. Now go on.” He said.

As you grabbed Lexi’s hand to hurry upstairs she shouted back, “Thank you Mr. Prescott!”

______

Entering your parent’s room, you guided Lexi towards the back of the closet where the safe was located. Neither of you uttered a word till you opened the safe and reached in and took out a few hundred dollar bills, “So now what?” You questioned.

To your dismay, Lexi’s face didn’t share your satisfaction and only showed disappointment.

“What is it?”

“So are we just not going to talk about it?”

“We both know damn well that was something out of parallel universe.” She quipped.

Your face fell, avoiding Lexi’s gaze, you brushed past her, making your way out of the walk in closet and sat on the end of your parents bed staring at the shiny hardwood floor.

“I’m sorry. That was a shitty thing to say.”

“No, you’re right. I really don’t know what the hell just happened. I hope he’s okay. He’s not even like that towards my mom.”

“You mean being so affectionate?” Lexi inquired.

“His entire body language was strange, it felt...off. Something told me that was the right thing to do. Now I feel awful for lying to him. Maybe if I tell him the truth, he’ll try to be understanding.”

“Maybe. Maybe not. You don’t know that and it’s probably better this way.”

“Yeah, you’re probably right.” You sighed. “Can I ask you to do something for me?”

“Anything.”

You lifted and turned your head to look at Lexi and worriedly said, “Help me not regret doing this.”

“I think I can do that.” She said with a sly grin.

______

Saturday mornings usually consisted of 10 AM breakfast on the balcony with your father’s head in the newspaper and your mother discussing her latest case. That was the routine, and you didn’t assume this morning to be any different. In anxious anticipation of what lied ahead, eager to start the day, you rushed down the stairs and headed towards the back of the house to the kitchen to see everything was untouched and pristine, aside from the glass Lexi had used yesterday.

Did they eat without you? Why did it look as if no one had been in the kitchen? Did your mom even come home last night? These among several other questions that were swirling around in your head, still not fully awake.

You knew no would respond, but shouted to the air anyways asking if anyone was there. To no surprise, you and the dust in the air were the only ones residing in those walls. Too worried and anxious to eat a full meal, you would have opted for coffee made by your father but the espresso machine was sparkling clean and you could never make it like he did. Trudging over to the refrigerator, about to open and stare at it fully stocked but still claiming there was nothing to eat, a note stuck to the door stopped you.

“Your mother and I had some business to take care of this morning. I apologize for missing breakfast on both of our behalf's. Here’s a 20 for food in case there is nothing to eat. - Love, Dad.”

Taped to the note was a crisp twenty dollar bill; you stared at it for a few seconds, then back at the note, then again at the dollar in your hand.

Something was happening with your parents that they didn’t seem to want to let you in on, whether it was good or bad you didn’t know and couldn’t even begin to make a guess. You would have to contemplate it later, the party was consuming any other thoughts and you and Lexi still had plans to do quite a bit before eight o’ clock.

______

You weren’t expecting a call from Lexi, she knew your Saturday family ritual and made a point to not call and interrupt it. You always knew it was her without her having to say it. She quickly told you to make yourself look decent, meet her at Benny’s and hurry before she hung up.

The town car pulled up to the front of the diner and you threw the door open before it came to complete stop. “Thank you, James!” you yelled back while slamming the door shut.

Jogging towards the door and almost tripping over your own feet, you shuffled into the diner not letting the music from the jukebox or the voices talking over each other distract you. Quickly pacing the room, you spot Lexi nestled in a booth, seemingly unharmed.

Breathing heavy, you throw your bag in the booth and almost fall into the seat.

“What’s with you? Did you run here?” Lexi asked with a puzzled look on her face.

“I thought it was an emergency. You made it sound like you were in trouble!” You blurted while still trying to catch your breath.

“Wait, so you did run here?”

“No, of course not. I took a town car.” You hissed.

A waitress with bright red, curly hair and big glasses strided towards your table with a wide smile on her face and cheerily asked, “Can I get you anything young lady?”

“Black coffee with two sugars and a splash of non-fat milk please.” You hastily replied.

“Will that be all?” She asked.

“Yes, thank you.” You said with a forced smile.

“And your food will be right up dear.” The waitress mentioned to Lexi.

With the same forced smile, Lexi thanked her and gave her your menus. She put her hand on the table, and tried to make eye contact with you to break the tension.

“Your dad called this morning. He said your mom and him were going to be out, and that I should meet you for breakfast somewhere. He also told me to make it a surprise. Not exactly sure why but I took matters into my own hands by calling you and sounding worried because I knew you would ask questions.”

You met her eyes and there was only one thing you took from that entire explanation. “My dad called you? Willingly?” You were perplexed.

“His voice is the last I would expect to hear on the other end. I thought he was going to chastise me because he found out I was lying and I almost hung up. Everything has been super weird since last night.”

“I mean, why would he call you and not me? He left a little note on the fridge that I almost didn’t see.” You mumbled.

“I’m sure he just didn’t want to wake you.”

“If something is wrong, I would hope they would tell me. It feels like they’re hiding something.”

“They probably have a big surprise for you, your birthday is coming up soon. I know it’s easier said than done, but try not to worry too much. In any case, I’m here for you no matter what happens.”

You put your hand on top of hers and smiled softly, “I know.”

The red-headed waitress made her way back to your booth with your coffee and Lexi’s food, “One coffee with two sugars and a splash of milk and an order of french toast with a side of hash-browns.” She announced. “Are you sure you don’t want anything to eat hon?”

“Yes, I’m good, thank you.” You replied with a now genuine smile.

“Alrighty, enjoy.” She said with a genuine smile in return.

“Are you sure you don't want some of this?” Lexi muffled with mouth full of food.

You laughed at Lexi’s lack of social grace and shook your head while taking a sip of your coffee. She was mumbling something about how that was the best french toast she's ever eaten when your attention was diverted by a bell above the door and a young man walking in. He took a seat at the counter and you noticed the red headed waitress rush back into the kitchen out of the corner of your eye. Maybe he was a rowdy regular who tried to give the employees trouble? The cigarette between his lips and his dangly earring didn't exactly exude warmth and kindness. Or maybe it was the clunky boots and what seemed to be permanent scowl on his face. But you knew better than to make assumptions based on what someone chose to show the world. Especially not with a face like that.

“Anna, you have to try this. I-” Lexi said still with a full mouth.

“Lex, turn around. But don't make it obvious.” You urged.

Disregarding your request, Lexi whipped around and her jaw dropped. “Damn, cut me off a slice of that.”

“Lexi!”

“Sorry but he’s just - wow. He's like nothing I've ever seen before.”

“I know.” You hummed.

“There's something about him that's so…”

Forget his stature and finely chiseled figure. Forget the way those jeans held his posterior. Forget his salty locks and golden skin. Forget his eyes that he stole from the ocean. Even with a scowl painted on his face, you felt a fiery glow deep within him buried by coal and you were determined to dig it out. He was like a fallen angel who spent a few too many nights with the devil and now couldn't get out of a bad deal. Could you be his guiding force?

“Otherworldly.” You whispered.

It felt like you were staring, or maybe you were dreaming. You couldn't take your eyes off of him and he demanded your attention without saying a word or looking your way. You were hooked on every move he made; a sip of coffee into his soft lips and down his throat, a shift to get more comfortable on the bar stool, his chest puffing out and back in from a deep sigh. You longed to be in his ember glow and could feel your body temperature rising and your slow breaths getting deeper and deeper.

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