#just two guys kissing in new york celebrating new year

[hawleywilby]

[desperate-gay]

Would you write for Aitana, it would probably work for another Spaniard like Alexia since she's also cold averse, if not.

My thought is that r is from some colder climate country and takes player back to their country to celebrate the holidays, and player is constantly freezing and like demanding cuddles and kisses to "keep warm". Fireplace cuddles, cute snowy moments, meeting the fam, and just fluff all around.

Frost Bite

Aitana Bonmati x fem!reader

summary: your girlfriend has never been to the states during christmas, and boy does she have some problems with it

“You guys live here voluntarily?” Aitana asks in disbelief, already shivering from the New York winter’s breeze.

“I lived here, last time I checked I now live with you in sunny Barcelona. Now please help me with our bags, Tana.” You correct, dragging two heavy suitcases out of the taxi cab’s trunk while your girlfriend rushes to your side after previously hugging herself in an attempt to warm up.

The tip of your nose is already beet red from just the few minutes of standing outside. Aitana and you are both bundled up in thick coats and hats, already prepared for the intense change of weather. Your breath can be seen entering the air as you softly knock on the door that used to be called home years ago.

“You guys are finally here!” Your mom squeals after nearly ripping the door open off its hinges. She quickly pulls you into a tight hug you can’t exactly return due to your hand still holding onto your suitcase.

“As much as I have missed you, we are terribly freezing out here.” You hint with a smile, causing your mom to gasp in realization and pull both you and your girlfriend into the warm atmosphere of the house.

Aitana sighs in relief as the heat washes over her body, not at all being used to the drop in temperature. You both take off everything that can be hung on the coat rack and what can be left by the door in order to move further into the room.

Your oldest brother along with his wife sit on the large sofa, enjoying whatever is playing on the TV. While your other brother who is only a year younger than you lays on the floor, wrestling with the two family dogs. Then you have your eldest sister with her husband both smushed on the chair, and finally, your youngest sister in the kitchen, helping your mom and dad.

Your girlfriend has already met your family plenty of times, having been dating for 5 years. She never feels awkward or out of place, especially when everyone welcomes her with open arms. Aitana was the first girlfriend you actually brought home to meet your family and thankfully they all adore her.

“Someone decided to finally see her siblings!” Your younger brother, James, jokes while throwing his hands in the air in celebration, causing the dogs to go crazy and tackle him to play.

“Now that is exactly what you get.” You say pointedly, grabbing Aitana’s hand and pulling her over to the dining table which is between both the living room and kitchen.

After a few minutes of catching up and greetings, you both stay seated at the wooden table, watching all your siblings bicker at each other and your mother and father prepare dinner. 

“Are you okay? I know that all the chaos can be a bit overwhelming at times.” You smile sympathetically, realizing you haven’t asked how your girlfriend is feeling since you’ve gotten here.

“Oh please, I live and work with chaos every day, and plus, I love tu pequeña familia.” You smile at the spaniard's words and reach over the wooden surface to hold the soft skin of her hand.

You both look at one another with lovesick smiles etched across both of your faces. Many couples warn about the spark fading after years of being in a relationship, but yours and Aitanas only seem to get brighter with time. Besides the occasional argument here and there, nothing has ever made your love for each other dim.

“So Aitana, have you been using your English over in Spain?” Your mother asks behind the counter, cutting off your little love bubble. 

Your mother always teases her for forgetting some English when she visits because she never really speaks it over at home. You are usually the one who speaks Spanish in order to communicate better with your Barcelona team.

Aitana blushes in deep red, knowing her answer won’t be satisfying. “Uh, yes?” The brunette says in her thick accent, trying to make your mother happy by speaking in the language.

“She so has not. Keira and I try to get it out of her after every game so she can use it in post-conferences.” You intervene at your girlfriend’s obvious lie, sitting back in your chair with your arms crossed over your chest, watching as the girl’s jaw across from you drops in disbelief.

“Traidora.” Your girlfriend gasps, continuing to stare you down with squinted eyes as you just smirk in response.

After an hour or two, dinner is all finished and everyone is packing up to go to their own destinations. You and Aitana are staying at the house considering you live a few countries away along with your younger sister who is on college break. Your parents have made sure you’re both settled in your once-old bedroom which is now a guest bed. 

“As much as I love and treasure my family, they sure can be exhausting.” You huff while dramatically falling backward on the bed in a starfish position, bouncing up and down from the springs.

“I thought everything went well.” The brunette shrugs, folding the rest of her clothes to put in the dresser.

“I never said it didn’t go well, I said it was exhausting. Two different scenarios.” You sit up on your elbow with your head resting in your hand so you can watch your girlfriend.

“Meh meh meh.” Aitana mocks, smiling when she sees your offended expression.

You dramatically sigh, flopping right back down on the bed and turning around to make your back face your girlfriend in fake offense. The creak of floorboards approaches you slowly, making you smile in triumph to see your plan to get the spaniard’s attention is working.

“Muy bien, mi amor, tú ganas.” Her arms wrap around your midsection, forcing you to roll over onto your back so the brunette can have a good look at you.

“Siempre gano.” You peck her nose and flip your bodies around so you’re now resting on top of her lap. “So tomorrow we will be going downtown to see the huge christmas tree, and then we will maybe go window shopping, play in the snow, maybe even ice skating-”

“-No, no skating. I may be good with my legs in football but on ice? Absolutamente no.” She declares, rubbing her hands up and down your thighs, sending waves of heat through your body at the simple touch.

“Alright, no ice skating, got it.” You fake solute, bringing a smile across your girlfriend’s face.

“Besides that, everything sounds magnífico. I just can’t wait.” You quirk your eyebrow when she begins to sit up more with you and inch her hands higher up your thigh. “So why don’t we fill in the time we have, sí?” She husks before sharply flipping you both once again so she now hovers over your body.

“My parents are just down the stairs, and my sister is across the hall.” You say in a hushed voice but a smile is still engraved across your face.

“Mmm your parents are downstairs sleeping, and your sister is across the hall also sleeping.” Aitana says, kissing your neck in all the right spots that she’ll know will make you cave.

“I don’t know-”

“Just be quiet bebé.”

—

“Tana, I have to go grab our drinks.” You laugh as the girl continues to latch onto your arm, acting as if you’re her only source of heat, even in the cozy cafe.

The spaniard is bundled up in a large coat, which makes her frame look extremely small, gloves, a scarf, and a beanie hat. Granted, she isn’t used to the weather, being in a warm cafe should help her with cooling down.

“Here you go, baby. There’s a seat over there.” You say, handing her the warm beverage and pointing over to the corner of the room.

You both sit in comfortable silence while talk fills the busy cafe. Aitana has finally taken off her gloves and instead uses the hot chocolate as her hand warmer. You’re both around the same height and size but with her being shriveled up, she looks abnormally cute and small.

“I don’t know how you do this. Siento como si mi anillo de la nariz se estuviera congelando.” Aitana exaggerates, taking another sip of her drink, and letting the hot liquid warm down her throat.

“You know, you seem to speak a lot of spanish when you’re cold. Should I expect this when we play out in the snow?”

“La nieve? Oh no no no, mi vida. We are not playing in the snow.” Your girlfriend replies bluntly, shivering at the thought of touching the cold surface.

“What? That was part of our plans.” You frown sadly, having been looking forward to showing the girl a huge part of what it was like growing up here in winter.

“Not happening.” The brunette shakes her head, sounding as if she has already made her decision.

You felt an overwhelming sense of sadness replacing your once contentment. Aitana seems to notice it as she watches you go quiet and stare longingly outside where families sprinkle snow at one another, laughing in cheer.

“Alright, fine, but you owe me so many kisses and hugs. Deal?” Aitana rasps, willing to do anything to make you happy, even if it means almost freezing to death in the fluffy ice.

“Deal!”

A bright smile plasters on your face, making the girl across from you chest flutter in delight, loving nothing more than your radiating happiness. Aitana basically goons at you with heart eyes. Any person who shared half the amount of love as you two would be considered extremely lucky.

After finishing your drinks, you drag a begrudgingly Aitana out of the cozy building into the crisp air. The brunette swears she can feel her insides frost up when the cool wind hits her.

“Over there! There’s a bunch of people making snowmen.” You exclaim, continuing your tug on the spaniard, wanting to claim your space before anyone else can.

“I don’t know how to do this.” Aitana admits, standing awkwardly on the side as you begin to pack a snowball to roll.

“I’ll teach you then.” You smile as you place the ball of snow back on the ground. “All we have to do now is roll this ball around so more snow can stick and gather to it so it becomes bigger.” Your girlfriend nods her head before taking a deep breath and rubbing her gloved hands together, preparing herself for a bit of coldness.

Once she gets the hang of it, she begins to smile in joy, knowing she’s doing something you love with you and actually being able to do it. You begin to make another ball for the middle of the snowman’s body as Aitana continues rolling the bottom.

“We did it.” Aitana grins cheerfully, looking at your standing creation.

“Ah, we’re not done yet. Oo, there’s some twigs over there.” You stomp off, leaving your girlfriend standing confused and watching you longingly.

You come back merely seconds later with two sticks in your hands. The brunette looks at you confused when you extend your arm, handing her one of the brown twigs. She hesitantly accepts it but continues to stand there in silence.

“There we go.” You smile triumphantly after sticking the twig deep into the frozen ball before nodding at your girlfriend to do the same but on the other side.

“He’s complete, no?” 

“As complete as we can make him for now.”

“So, we can go back to the house now?” You look over at the girl with a quirked eyebrow, taking in her sheepish smile and rosy cheeks. 

Rolling your eyes in defeat you agree, making the girl pump her fists in victory. You shake your head amusingly before locking arms and starting your walk home.

—

“Thank you for humoring me and playing in the snow.” You whisper, cuddling into your girlfriend’s side while watching the fireplace flicker.

Your parents and sister had left to go to some neighborhood christmas party while you and Aitana decided to stay back. You both now lay on the cozy couch in the living room, warming up in front of the fireplace as the TV plays some cheesy Hallmark movie.

“I was not humoring you. I wanted to make you happy and also see your fun but cold traditions.”

You move your head off her shoulder and face her with a big grin. Aitana and you both lean in halfway into a soft and passionate kiss, locking lips tenderly and rubbing your hands slowly against one another’s skin. When you pull away, Aitana chases after your lips in despair, not wanting the kiss to end quite yet.

“Tu prometiste besos.” The spaniard grumbles in fake irritation, wanting to connect your lips once more.

“I also promised cuddles which I will be giving you now, miss grumpy pants.” You tease, pushing her to lay back against the couch so you can sink in front of her, allowing her arm to wrap around your waist.

“That will be mrs. grumpy pants soon.” Aitana mumbles under her breath.

“What was that?”

“Nothing, mi amor. Let’s watch this movie that has the same plot as the twenty others we have already watched.”

[loveyhoons]

SAY YOU WON’T LET GO ᯓᡣ𐭩 | p.js

pairing: park jongseong x f!reader

genre: non-idol au! new guy in the city jay!

synopsis: you did not expect to fall for your little brother’s new guitar teacher nor did you expect him to show up in your class as a new student either

featuring: all of enha! (maknae line aged down to 12 for purpose of story!!) , ningning & karina from aespa, julie from kiss of life, taehyun & beomgyu from txt

word count: 9.8k words

warnings: mild cussing, kissing

author’s note: hewo everyone!! i wrote this in celebration of jay’s birthday and wanted to write a fluff one shot! he sang say you won’t let go during the oakland stop and WAHH he did so good :’) i thought it was a good idea to include this song into the story

for the setting, i was thinking of this story taking place in new york, but you can imagine it to be any state in the east coast honestly!! this oneshot spans out so there is a few time jumps here and there but it's not too much ~

happy reading <33

You walked into the music store with your 12-year-old brother Jungwon, hearing a song playing faintly in the background. You said a quick good morning to the lady at the front as she was ringing up a customer buying reeds for his clarinet.

As you carried Jungwon’s guitar case, he ecstatically looked at the guitar picks, waiting for his guitar lessons to start. You sat in the seats by the entrance, waiting for time to pass by, debating if you should get a pastry in the nearby bakery. 

It was the last Friday before school would start again. Jungwon chose his guitar lessons to be early in the morning during the summer, dragging you along with him. 

With your parents both at work and your grandma visiting your home country for the entire summer, you were asked to bring Jungwon to his guitar lessons.

As much as you hated waking up early, you always went because of your little crush on his guitar teacher Heeseung Lee. 

Heeseung went to your high school and was a year above you. You never made advances per se but always loved sparking up a conversation with him whenever the lesson would finish for the day. You remember the day you met him during your freshman orientation and you immediately were stunned by how friendly he was to you and your group. 

With the years passing by, you would just give him a wave or a how are you during passing period. It made your heart flutter even if it was just the smallest interaction. 

You admired him because he was sweet and kind- exactly what you looked for in a guy. You were miserable to find out he was going out of state for university, trying your best always to drop off Jungwon, just to be able to talk to him. 

Looking at the time at the clock, it was 9:58 AM meaning Jungwon’s lessons should start soon. You nudged Jungwon, telling him to go towards the hallway on the left to one of the practice rooms. 

The two of you walked towards the hallway and you handed him his guitar case as he walked into the practice room. You peeked in, surprised to find no one there. Heeseung was usually early, it was weird for him not to be. 

“Oh hey, sorry, I’m here.” You turned around to find an unfamiliar guy standing beside you. With his jet-black hair, tan skin, and catlike smirk, you gulp a little. As much as you were loyal to your little crush on Heeseung, you had to admit to yourself he was a bit too cute. 

The guy looked towards you as you raised your eyebrow. “Oh, is Heeseung not here today?” 

“Oh, he left already for uni.”

“Sorry, I forgot to tell you, my last lesson with him was last week…” You glanced towards Jungwon who started to whistle, slowly taking his guitar out of his case. 

Feeling like you were about to combust any moment, you calmed yourself down and let out a little smile. “Oh.” 

“I’m Jay by the way,” The guy extended his hand. “I’ll be Jungwon’s new guitar teacher.”

“Nice to meet you, I’m Y/N, Jungwon’s sister.” You shook his hand.

“We’ll get to it then. Nice meeting you.” Jay smiled. 

You nodded your head as you waved bye to Jungwon, walking towards the outside of the music shop. You went straight to the bakery, wanting to eat your own heart out. 

You were heartbroken, to say the least, but you started to think to yourself that maybe it was truly the end of your little infatuation with Heeseung. 

“I am going to kill him, why did he not tell me?” You screamed into your pillow, in disbelief of what happened in the morning. 

After Jungwon’s lesson, you dropped him off at his friend Sunoo’s house. You were scolding him, annoyed that he did not tell you Heeseung was leaving. In his defense, Heeseung should have told you- which was a good point. You tried to think back if you zoned back in your past conversations if you missed him mentioning him leaving this week. He did not post anything about leaving on his Instagram either so you were gobsmacked. 

But then again, he already left, what can you do? 

You immediately called your best friend Ningning to tell her of your little encounter with Jay. She came running-literally running as soon as you got home, telling her to spill all the details of what happened. 

Ningning sat in your chair by your desk, eating a bag of potato chips. She looked towards you and shrugged. “Hey, but you admitted Won’s new teacher is cute.”

“That is not the point!” You sighed as you put down the pillow. “Heeseung left!”

“Girl, you did not say anything to him while he was still at school.” Ningning sighed. “I know he’s cute and all but maybe this is good for you.”

“I know Ning, but ugh.” 

“Hey, we start our last year this Monday. Come on, be excited. I know you’ll forget about him.”

“You just want to hear more about Won’s new teacher, don’t you?”

“Maybe, maybe not.” Ningning giggled.

You sat in your Statistics class, yawning. It was only the first class of the day and you already wanted to go home. With your teacher reading the class syllabus out loud and the material shown on the projector, you slouched in your seat a little, ready to drift off into a nap.

A knock came from the door as you peered towards it. Your classmate opened the door as a familiar face walked through. You sat up in your chair a little, baffled by who was standing right in front of the classroom.

Jay?

“Listen up class, we have a new student transferring in from-”

“Seattle.”

“This is Jay Park and starting today he will be going here. Give him a warm welcome.”

The students all looked towards him giving him a polite hello. You can already see a few girls in your class, gawking in awe over Jay, fawning over his looks.

 As you realized there was an empty seat next to you, you blinked your eyes rapidly as he took a seat. You can already hear some girls whispering, looking at the both of you. 

“So we meet again Y/N.” Jay smiled as he took off his bag.

“Hello to you too Jay.” You replied, turning your head slowly back to the front of the classroom.

The ironic part of everything was that Jay had a lot of classes with you. Despite both of your electives being different, you had most of your classes together such as Statistics, Literature, Anatomy, and Government. And he sat next to you for each class.

As you set your belongings down, you waited for Ningning and your other friend Julie in the cafeteria. You parted ways with Jay after Government as he had Culinary and you had Yearbook. You were still in shock, your friend Taehyun asked you if you were okay in class, staring at the blank canvas that was on the computer screen.

“There you are!” Ningning smiled as she took a seat. Next to her, Julie took a seat too, putting her stuff down. “Hey Y/N!” 

“Hey…funny story.” You let out a dry laugh. “Guess who’s a new student in our grade.”

“No way,” Ningning replied.

“Is this the guy you were telling me about this morning?” Julie asked as you nodded your head. “My luck is so good guys, I swear.”

“My manifestations worked.” Ningning put her hands together as she smiled. “This year is about to get more interesting.”

You rolled your eyes as you took a sip from your water bottle. “Okay, you can stop it now.”

“Let me guess? You had a lot of classes with him too.” Julie asked as Ningning and her looked at you intently.

“Yes. But that’s beside the point, I already got some girls staring at me like a hawk. I just wanted peace this year.” You complained.

“First Heeseung now Jay, you can’t catch a break.” Ningning cooed.

“And I’ll see him again later to drop off Won.” You glanced up to find Jay already in the line with your other classmate Jake. 

You looked down at your food, feeling like you saw stars. Why was he everywhere?

It has been a week since Jay transferred to your school. You still were warming up to him, a bit quiet whenever you guys would sit next to each other in class. You guys did not talk about much. Your conversations usually consisted of classwork homework or any projects that would be due soon. 

You already had some girls in your classes who asked how you knew each other and if he had a girlfriend. You specified he was Jungwon’s music teacher and that’s how you knew each other. 

It was annoying to the point where you’d be in a bad mood whenever you were in class or just out and about ready to leave due to how many questions would be asked in a day.

Either you were still sad over Heeseung or just baffled he left. You felt bad because you did not mean to treat Jay like that, you just weren’t good at adapting to changes so quickly. 

As Jungwon unzipped his guitar case, you said a quick goodbye. Jay walked into the hallway as he waved. 

“Hey Y/N.” Jay smiled as you waved back. “Nice to see you again.”

Jay then crossed his arms as he leaned against the doorframe. “Jungwon told me you’re not used to me teaching him yet.” 

You looked to him in confusion then back to Jungwon who started to whistle. He then put his guitar down and walked out of the practice room. “Uh, I need to use the bathroom.” 

As he walked away you looked back to Jay in confusion. “What did my brother tell you?” 

“Well, he said that you had a little crush on Heeseung- don’t get mad at him though I swear I won’t say anything.” Jay chuckled a little as he rubbed his neck.

“Oh uh-oh-” You were too stunned to reply.

You didn’t know how to react. You were annoyed that Jungwon just exposed your little crush but also felt a bit bad because Jay seemed a bit more pressured than he should have been. 

“Don’t worry though I’ll prove that I’m a good teacher too,” Jay replied. “After all I’ve been playing guitar since I was small.” 

The both of you let out a small smile, not saying a word. You felt terrible. You did not realize your little actions made it seem like you hated Jay when honestly you did not know him to even act like that. 

“Jay, I’m so sorry, I hope my brother didn't make it seem like I hate you. I know you’re capable of teaching him.” 

“No, you’re good I get it.” Jay then stood from the doorframe and smiled. “I hope in these next few weeks, you’ll maybe change your mind on some things.” 

You muttered a little “huh” in confusion as Jungwon came back. He waved bye to you as Jay did the same.

What was that supposed to mean? 

For the next couple of weeks, your routine consisted of dropping off Jungwon at his guitar lessons after school and taking photos for the yearbook after the football games. You were exhausted, to say the least, wishing you could go back to sleep. You were glad your grandma picked up Jungwon from his guitar lessons so you could just stay after school for most of the week. 

Jay and you started to become acquaintances, talking here and there. You both would eventually work on classwork together and walk to your classes during the passing period. 

You were happy you gained a new friend- somewhat. You did feel sorry for that small misunderstanding but was glad it was resolved. 

You learned that Jay was a big baseball fan, loved all different kinds of music, and was an only child. You also learned he loved anime and could speak a few basic sentences of Japanese- you were impressed, to say the least.

You also found out that the owner of the music shop was his uncle and that’s how he became a part-time guitar teacher. With Heeseung being away, his uncle offered him the position, asking him if he could step in. 

You also learned that he moved here in hopes of scouting for places he could go to university in the future. With his mom still a bit worried he’ll be a bit too far from home, he thought the best option would be to stay with his Mom’s brother and his family in another state. 

Having some free time in the Yearbook, you decided to visit Jay in Culinary and take some photos of the class. Snapping photos of the variety of baked goods the students cooked, you could smell the aroma of cookies that lay in the back of the room. 

The assignment of today’s class was to bake a fresh batch of baked goods to start the semester. 

You walked by each of the tables, delighted by all the different goods. 

As you walked towards Jay, he was slicing the banana bread he made as he blew carefully on his fingers as it was still hot. He put the knife down as he glanced towards you, waving. “Y/N, try the banana bread.” 

You waved, setting the camera down. “Wow, someone’s a chef.” 

“Get a piece,” Jay said as he walked over towards the sink.

You said a quick thank you, taking a bite. You glanced back up at Jay and nodded your head. “Geez, this is good.”

“Thank you, thank you I try.” Jay smiled as he walked back towards you. “You know, you can get another slice before you leave.” 

“No, isn’t this for a grade?” You raised your eyebrow, unsure. 

“I made two, the other one is over there by the oven still.” Jay pointed towards the oven as you smiled. “You’re too kind.”

You got a paper towel put the sliced banana bread on it and smiled. “Thank you again.” 

You and Jay talked for a little as you headed back quickly to your classroom, seeing that class would end soon. 

When you got back, you set your banana bread down on the desk, packing your camera in its bag.

“Oo, that looks good who made that?” Taehyun asked as he stood by your desk.

“Jay did, here get a small piece.” You said as he ripped a piece off.

“Okay, you were not kidding this is good.” Taehyun nods his head. “Aren’t you lucky you have a friend who can make snacks for you during the day?” 

You smiled as you put on your backpack. “Mhm, I’m grateful he even shares it with me.” 

“You know Jay asks about you?” Jungwon said as he ate his chocolate ice cream.

The two of you sat on a bench in the park, enjoying the ice cream you just bought from the corner convenience store. 

It was a Saturday afternoon and you and Jungwon had nothing to do in the house so the two of you decided to just talk for a stroll in the park. The weather was nice today and you both were in the mood to have a sweet treat and just sit for a while. 

“Is that a good or bad thing?” You asked as Jungwon shrugged. “I don’t know, I think he may have a crush on you.”

“Are you not learning anything with him? Do I need to switch out your teacher?” You replied, trying to change the subject.

“I’m just saying! Plus Jay is a really good teacher, don’t switch him out.”

You laughed, shaking your head. “I’m just joking.”

“No but really, he asks me about your favorite songs, what you like to do. He asked me if you played any instruments if you played any sports…” 

“Oh.” You just continued eating your ice cream, hoping Jungwon did not see your cheeks turn a shade of red.

“I don’t know but I find it very cute. Can’t wait to tell Mom you’re getting a boyfriend soon.”

“Won, just eat your ice cream or no one is dropping you off to lessons after school on Monday!” 

It was homecoming week and you were running all over campus to get photos of the decorations. After dropping Jungwon to his lessons, you would go back to school and start snapping photos, occasionally helping your grade plan to decorate your section. 

With Friday approaching so quickly, you were relieved; ready to sleep the day after. You were happy your friends in Yearbook would cover the dance, as you decided not to go. You were not really into going to events, you just wanted to stay home and rest.

You were currently in the hallway where most of the seniors’ and juniors’ lockers were, decorating the ceiling with some long confetti pieces and streamers. The ladder was a bit unsteady so you decorated a bit slowly, trying not to make too much movement.

Jay was with you as he also decorated the left side of the hallway. With your other friends not involved with the Homecoming preparations, they all already left to go home. He was glad that the other guitar teacher was able to step in for him today- he wanted to help you out. 

You glanced towards him as he helped Taehyun straighten out the banner at the end of the hall. You felt your cheeks burn a little, thinking about your little talk with Jungwon. Was it possible that he may have had a small crush on you? You just met a few months ago- how did he fall so quickly if so? 

As Jay turned his head in your direction, you looked away as you put the last streamer up on the ceiling with some protective tape. As you were about to take a step down, you felt the ladder wobble, you tried to stay balanced but your foot stumbled a bit off the top step.

Jay ran to you as quickly as he could with Taehyun after him. He then caught you right in his arms right before you fell on the floor. 

“Y/N, are you okay?” Jay asked in a panic. He held you in his arms as you hiccuped a little. You nodded, covering your mouth. You had your arms wrapped around him, and the two of you stayed in the same position for a few more seconds. 

You could see Taehyun trying hard not to giggle as he looked away, pretending not to see anything.

Jay put you down gently as you scratched your head a little, embarrassed.

“Thanks for catching me, erm, do you mind helping me put the ladder away?” You asked Jay as he nodded his head.

“You sure you don’t need to see the nurse or anything?” Jay asked.

You nodded your head giving a thumbs up. “I’ll be okay.” 

The awkward silence between the both of you ensued when you walked towards the storage room.

Jungwon’s friends tagged along with you and Jungwon to his guitar lessons. They wanted to go to the arcade after he was done and agreed to wait with you outside the store. You decided to go with them too, as you had nothing to do after class. It was the one day you were free and only had homework to do in the evening- it felt like a relief.

As soon as Jungwon called you to tell you he was done, you and his friends Sunoo and Ni-Ki went to pick him up.

The three of you walked into the music store and towards the hallway to wait for Jungwon. As he walked out of the hallway, Jay walked behind him as he waved towards you.

“Jay, this is Sunoo and Ni-Ki, my best friends.” Jungwon smiled cheekily as the two boys waved to Jay.

“Nice to meet you two. Where you all heading?” Jay asked.

“We’re going to the arcade across the street,” Sunoo replied.

“You should come! Y/N is all alone.” Jungwon offered as you glanced at him in confusion.

Jay looked towards you as he shook his head. “Oh no guys-”

“There’s a plushie I’ve been wanting.” You blurted out loud as the boys looked at you. “You want to help me win it?” 

Jay’s eyes lit up a little as he looked at the time. “You know what the person after Jungwon canceled, I can come.” 

The boys cheered as he went back to get his bag and lock the practice room. He went to tell his uncle in the back he would be back later and met you guys outside. 

Jungwon nudged your arm a little as he smirked.

Oh how sneaky your little brother was. 

You and Jay were in front of the crane machine looking at the Pompompurin plushies that were scattered inside. You sighed a little in frustration- you’ve been wanting it for a month already. 

Knowing how the arcade changes its stock frequently, you were determined to win it this time.

“A month?” Jay asked as you nodded your head. “My luck is not good.”

Jungwon peeked behind the other crane machine as Sunoo and Niki did the same.

“Your sister is blushing red like a tomato.” Sunoo giggled. Ni-Ki shook his head. “Jay is worse, he seems nervous like he can’t win it."

“Shh guys, let’s see if he’s successful,” Jungwon told his friends, looking back towards you and Jay.

As Jay put a token into the coin slot, the circus music started to play from the machine as the crane started to let loose from its spot. Jay cracked his knuckles as he moved the crane around, focused.

You smiled to yourself, seeing how focused Jay was. He never seemed so determined in his life to get something and you appreciated he was doing it all for you. As he set the crane on top of the Pompompurin plushies that were laid down towards the right of the front side, he took in a deep breath. He looked from the side as you held your breath a little, hoping it would work out.

Jay then pressed the button, hoping it would pick up the plushie. As the crane went down and scooped the plushie, it dropped as soon as it reached the top. 

You heard Jay said “shit” as you shook your head, reassuring him it was okay. Jay shook his head, stretching his neck. “No, I will win it.”

Jungwon giggled from behind as he, Sunoo, and Ni-Ki were too invested. They decided to go towards you guys and see if Jay was successful this time.

“Moral support!” Sunoo cheered.

Jay’s face started to get pale; he did not want to embarrass himself even more right now. He put another token into the coin slot and took in a deep breath. He aimed for the same Pompompurin, asking the boys to go on the side and see if the angle was okay. 

The Pompompurin was dropped closer towards the exit- he hoped this time around it would work out.

As soon as he angled the crane, the boys looked at the side and gave him a thumbs up, telling him it was okay to press the button. 

The 5 of you looked towards the stuffed animal in hopes it would work. As soon as the crane got it, it stayed intact and was then dropped towards the exit. You all cheered and screamed in excitement, not caring if anyone was looking.

“Jay, holy shit, thank you!!” You squealed. 

You got a bit too excited and hugged Jay as he hugged you back. Not realizing the two of you were so close to each other, you both then let go as he rubbed his neck.

“No problem. I’m glad you got it.” Jay replied, trying not to bring attention to his flustered cheeks. 

Jungwon bent down to get your Pompompurin plushie and held it up. “He is finally going to a new home.”

“Jay, you need to help me get my Charmander plushie please!” Ni-Ki said as Jay nodded his head. “Oh yes, where is it?”

As he and Sunoo led Jay towards the other crane machine, Jungwon handed you the plushie.

“He’s a keeper!” Jungwon smiled as he walked quickly towards the others.

“What did you say?” You asked, rolling your eyes.

You then looked back towards your plushie, feeling too happy. You then felt your heart race a little as you held the plushie to your chest.

Why did your heart race as soon as you and Jay let go after your hug? 

With the month of November rolling around the corner, it meant that it was the annual talent show. Your school always had a talent show right before the Winter season, showcasing different grades and their variety of skills. 

Jay told you he and his friends Jake and Sunghoon signed up with him- as a dare from their classmates in their band class. You never heard Jay sing- from what Jungwon said, he had a nice voice. He did not want to give you any spoilers, saying that you would enjoy watching them sing. 

You told Ms.Ling, the Yearbook teacher, that you wanted to volunteer to take photos for the event and take over the page since it was still empty. So here you are now, getting ready and setting up all the cameras making sure the angle looked nice.

“What made you want to join the page for the talent show?” Taehyun asked as he walked up to you, holding his camera.

“Nothing, I just wanted to watch that’s all.” 

“Mhm, okay. Anyway, I saw the list, and seems like Jay and his friends are the 5th group to go.”

Taehyun scurried away as his friend Beomgyu was calling him from the front of the stage. You rolled your eyes, sitting down by the camera on the long tripod. 

People slowly started to walk in as the show would start soon. You had your camera in your hands, sitting back, waiting for time to pass. 

As it then was already 7 pm the front doors to the theaters closed and the lights started to dim. Your other friend Karina who was also in charge of the page took a seat next to you.

“Go ahead and take pictures from the side, I’ll help the school news team record.”

“You sure?” You ask as Karina nods her head, giving a thumbs up.

You then stood off saying Excuse me to the family on the left of you, walking towards the middle aisle.

The host of the evening which was Beomgyu stood in the center with the drama teacher welcoming the audience. You turned on your camera and started to adjust the brightness, ready to take photos. 

The first group was just introduced as you walked closer to the stage, taking photos as Taehyun did the same on the other side. You snapped a few from different angles, making sure the photos came out just right.

So far, the groups that performed were a dance team, another performed magic tricks, and another impersonated famous people. The group after was two people who juggled pins which you were very impressed by. 

Then it was time for Jay and his friends to come up. 

As soon as Beomgyu said their names, the three walked up and pulled up wooden stools in the middle. Beomgyu helped put a mic stand in front of Jay’s stool as Jake and Sunghoon held their own mics. 

Jay had his guitar with him and he smiled as soon as he spotted you in the aisle. You looked back, smiling, a bit excited to hear what they were about to sing.

As the trio introduced themselves, Jay then strummed his guitar, a familiar tune starting to play. The whole audience started to gasp, immediately whispering to themselves. 

You realized it was the song Say You Won’t Let Go.

As Jay sang the first part of the song, you started to snap photos- as in click the button as many times as you can. Seeing you already took a handful, you put your camera down to enjoy the performance.

Little cheers started to erupt as Jake took the chorus and Sunghoon took the part after. You started to cheer a little as Jay sang the second chorus, and the audience started to sing along. 

After the boys finished, everyone cheered as you clapped. As Jay caught your eye you gave him two thumbs up as he laughed a little, smiling. “Someone’s a fangirl.” You then looked next to you as Taehyun also cheered. You just laughed it off, letting Taehyun have it this time. 

“So what did you think?” 

You and Jay sat at the corner convenience store, drinking milk tea together. After the show ended, he introduced you to Jake and Sunghoon. As you knew of Jake already from your Algebra 2 class from last year and Sunghoon from PE in freshman year, this was the first time you had a conversation with them. They were nice people and you were glad Jay was taken in by them when he first arrived. 

The two figured Jay wanted alone time with you so they parted ways as soon as you guys got your drinks from the milk tea shop. 

“You’re so good at singing?? I was really surprised.” You replied as you took a bite of your pastry. 

“You didn’t think I would sound good?” Jay joked as you rolled your eyes. “Don’t get too cocky there Mr.”

“Thank you though for actually going, I thought you didn’t plan on going.” Jay smiled. 

As you looked up at him, you felt your heart race faster- just like it did when you guys first hugged at the arcade. It was a strange feeling for you because not once did your heart ever beat like this for anyone else, heck it never beat like this when you had a crush on Heeseung either.

“It’s no problem. Think of it as a thank you for being such a great friend and also a good teacher to Won.” 

“You are too sweet Y/N.” Jay took a sip of his milk tea as you poked to his cheeks. “Did I make you blush?” 

“No!” Jay choked out a little. 

“Aw, I made you blush.” You giggled as Jay shook his head. “You’re seeing things.” 

Maybe you are starting to believe that Jay did have a little crush on you. 

Jay still did not know his way around city- more like he just never got the chance to. With his uncle busy at the shop and his aunt still at home, taking care of his little cousins, he only knew the route to and from the school and the area around it.

You felt bad he never got to explore the area and decided to spend the entire day going to your favorite places. You thought it would be nice to unwind with Jay for the day- considering you both never went out on your before. 

You put on your sneakers, looking at the mirror on the top of the shoe cabinet.

As soon as you saw a notification pop up from your phone and saw Jay’s message, you opened the front door.

You said a quick bye to your grandma who was currently watching a game show on the TV. 

You walked outside, closed the front door, and saw Jay standing in front of your house. The both of you unknowingly color-coordinated today, both wearing dark blue and black jeans. 

“Good afternoon,” Jay said as you smiled,waving back. “You ready to go?”

“Yup, let’s go. I’m excited to see what you have planned.” 

The two of you walked then towards the bus stop by your house, waiting for the next bus to arrive. As soon as it came you both paid your fares and went to the middle as you took the window seat. 

You rode a bit further down to the other side of the city. The two of you talked for a little, him asking you what building was what and which parts of the city you go to often. 

You both then got off a few minutes after and stood in front of a beach walk. 

“Oh wow, it’s pretty over here,” Jay said in awe. 

“We can get some ice cream floats then walk on the beach. How does that sound?” You asked as he nodded his head. “You are in charge today, I’m just following you around.” 

The two of you then walked towards the small shops by the beach walk and went straight into the ice cream parlor. 

After enjoying large chocolate floats, the both of you walked on the beach as the breeze softly caressed both of your guys’ faces. You both decided to sit for a little and wait for the sunset. 

“Ah, thank you for showing me your favorite part of the city today, I enjoyed it.” Jay thanked you.

You smiled in relief. “I’m glad. I didn’t know if you would like it or not.” 

“I’m guessing you come here quite often?” 

“Yup. I used to come here often with my parents.” 

“What happened?” Jay asked as he leaned back a little.

“Well they just get busy that’s all. We don’t have time to go out anymore because they both work long-hour shifts. That’s how I figured out bus routes to certain places so I can take Won and me out whenever I have some free time.”

“You’re a really good sister, I hope you know that,” Jay replied. “I don’t have any siblings but I can tell that you care for Won a lot.” 

“Thanks, Jay, I try, I do.” You sighed. 

The two of you then looked at each other. You felt your cheeks burn a little as he sat a little closer next to you. You gulp as the sky slowly starts to turn a darker shade of pink. 

As the sun slowly started to set, Jay leaned in closer and he turned his neck a little, leaving a kiss on your lips. You did not pull away as you both stayed in the same position for a few more seconds. 

You both then sat aback, as a little smile left your lips. You tried not to show your smile, looking at your feet dig into the sand. 

Jay was your first kiss,

And you felt like you were floating on a cloud, glad it was him who took it. 

Ever since you shared a kiss with Jay, the two of you did everything together. It was to the point he and his friends also joined you guys at lunch in the cafeteria and even took the same bus going home. 

The two of you would subtly brush your hands against each other while walking, sometimes he’d intertwine them and sometimes he’d draw circles in your palms.

Your friends already got the hint something was going on between the both of you; they just let things be, waiting for you guys to admit to whatever was going on. 

You sat in the library with Ningning, Julie, Jay, and his friends. You guys sat at the large table, looking at your laptops reading each other’s college application essays. 

It honestly did not cross your mind about applying to college so soon. You decided just to stay locally as Ningning and Julie wanted to go out of state. You were too attached to stay home and did not know whether you wanted to leave just yet- also because you did not want to leave Jungwon yet either.

“Where did you plan to go?” You asked Jay as he closed a tab on his laptop. He sighed and shook his head. “Honestly I don’t know yet. I was thinking of just staying here.” The others smiled to themselves as Ningning and Julie held a giggle to themselves.

“Oh, you’re considering on staying here too?” 

“Yeah, why are you?”

“Mhm.” You nodded your head. “My parents are always busy with work, Grandma is getting old. I feel like Won will have no one, as much as he drives me off the walls, I don’t want him to be alone.” 

Jay nodded his head. “Makes sense.” 

“I’ll still apply though to other schools, it’ll be a second option if anything.” 

“Tell me which schools, maybe we can go to the same ones,” Jay replied as you nodded your head, showing him your possible schools. 

What you didn’t know was that Jay wanted to originally go to where Sunghoon and Jake were planning on going to- which was a school in Los Angeles. He planned to apply soon too but as soon as he heard you wanted to stay, he wanted to stay too.

He thought he was going insane when he made a choice so quickly but in fact, he probably fell in too deep when it came to you. He already had the change of scenery he wanted and he liked it here with you. He did not mind if he kept working at the music store and did not mind either if he had to stay with his uncle and his family still. He felt like it was just right to stay here. 

“That leaves the two of you to stay here, won’t you guys miss us.” Julie sighed as you shook your head. “Think of it this way, wherever you guys go, it gives us a reason to visit.”

“Fair enough,” Sunghoon replied as he and Jake switched their laptops.

You and Jay looked at each other’s essays, pointing out some grammar mistakes and poking fun at the little typing errors. 

You walked into the music shop to pick up Jungwon’s guitar. He and Jay inspected his guitar last week and figured it needed some quick repairs as some screws were loose. With Jungwon out on a volunteer trip for school, you decided just to pick it up for him.

It was the weekend after Thanksgiving and things were still calming down. You and your friends all submitted your college applications the week before, feeling a relief of calmness wash over all of you. 

You decided to apply to 3 schools as Jay applied to 4. He also applied to a school back in Seattle just in case things didn't work out here. 

You secretly hoped you both would be accepted to the nearby university which was 10 minutes away. Since everyone else was leaving, it would be nice just to have one person by your side-especially if it was Jay.

Now it was just a waiting game for the results. 

“Hi, I’m here to pick up-Heeseung?” 

As the boy turned around, he waved and smiled. “Hi Y/N, long time no see.”

“You’re back?” You replied in confusion.

“Oh no, I’m just visiting. I go back this Monday. I figured I’d say hi to Mr. Kim before I go back.” 

“And you’re working here for the day?” You asked, setting down your phone on the table.

“One of the workers called in sick and he asked if I could help out. I had nothing to do anyways.”  

Jay then walked out of the practice room, waving bye to his student. As he walked out towards the front, he saw you and Heeseung talking. With his guitar in one hand, he turned his head a little, realizing that it was the guy Jungwon was talking about.

He remembered his uncle saying that one of the old workers would take a shift for the day but did not expect it to be Heeseung. 

Jay saw your doe eyes and how they lit up a little. He saw you smile intently as you asked Heeseung how he was doing and how university was for him. He held on to his guitar, thinking if he should interrupt but just walked back to the hallway towards the back room, feeling a bit unamused. 

“Can you believe he joined their rugby team and is also part of the music department’s main singers for their events?” You said as you moved a few Christmas decorations to the living room. 

Jungwon tuned you out a little as he focused on putting the Christmas tree together. 

As your parents and your Grandma were out currently buying more Christmas decorations, you and Jungwon decided just to prepare the tree and put the stockings by the fireplace before they came back.

Setting down the last box, you sighed. “Won, did you hear anything of what I was saying?” 

“I mean I did for the first half,” Jungwon replied as he put the plastic pieces on the stand of the tree. “But then I didn’t hear anything you said for the second half.”

“I just wanted to let you know how Heeseung was doing.” 

“Mhm, about Jay, did you see him? He was working today.” 

“Oh really? I texted him and he said he wasn’t there.”

“Interesting,” Jungwon mumbled as he tried the put the middle of the tree together. 

“Why? I don’t like Heeseung like that anymore, it felt nice. It was like catching up with an old friend.” 

When you saw Heeseung again, you felt a wave of nostalgia hit you. You felt like a lot of things changed since he left and you felt like your little crush on him disappeared. It was cause your heart is now with someone else. 

And that someone is Jay.

“So are you openly admitting to me that you like Jay now?’ Jungwon’s eyes lit up. He waited patiently for an answer from you as you then threw a pillow at him from the couch. “I am not admitting to anything.”

“You’re boring.” Jungwon huffed as he then went back to fixing the tree. 

You smiled to yourself, humming the beginning of the song Jay sang at the talent show. 

“Yeah guys, it’s bad, I don’t know.” Jay sighed as he kicked the ball into the net. 

He and the boys were at the park playing soccer. He called the boys as soon as he got a call from his mom in Seattle, saying that his grandpa had fallen ill and was rushed to the hospital. He and his uncle were thinking of making a trip back to Seattle after Christmas to visit.

“We just hope everything will be okay man.” Jake sighed. “Have you told Y/N?” 

“Not yet. I sorta told her I could not hang out yesterday after I saw her talk to Heeseung, I feel like an idiot being a bit jealous right now.” 

Jay took a seat in the middle of the field with the soccer ball and rolled it in between his arms. Sunghoon and Jake also took a seat next to him, grabbing their water bottles.

“You’re acting like you guys did not just kiss a week or two ago,” Sunghoon said. “We see the way she looks at you.” 

“Yeah, she gets all smiley and giggly with you. There is no way she likes Heeseung like she used to.” Jake agreed.

“I don’t know. Maybe I’m just a bit skeptical about how things will end.” 

“Enjoy for now then man, you got some time before Christmas,” Jake said as Sunghoon nodded his head. “You have some time, maybe you can finally tell her how you feel.” 

“I mean, I want to but-”

“But what?” Sunghoon asked.

“What if I don’t come back you know?”

“You are acting like you can’t visit or whatnot!” Jake sighs. “Come on, we’ll support you no matter what happens, I bet that’s the same for Y/N too.” 

“I’ll think of something…” Jay muttered. He wanted to make sure to spend a bit of time with you before he leaves. He was quite unsure whether his mom wanted him back home sooner than thought; he wanted everything to be perfect when it came to you. 

Jay sat nervously in the practice room. He asked Jungwon and his friends to help decorate the practice room the night before. With his uncle’s permission, they decorated the practice room in fairy lights and plated your favorite cookies and desserts from the bakery across the street. 

He had his guitar in his hands a bit nervous, shaking his head. He sang in front of a large crowd before heck, he’s done it so many times back at home for school events. Why was he so nervous with you just being his only audience? 

Jungwon told him that you’ve played the song he sang at the talent show around the house and in the car. He told Jay that it was your favorite song at the moment and it’s been like that for weeks already. 

Jay thought serenading you with the song would be a good idea. He asked his friends and your friends for their opinions and they all thought it was a sweet idea. And so everyone helped him with the past week's plan while Jungwon and his friends helped him decorate the practice room.

You thought Jungwon had lessons so you just dropped him off after class as per usual. You could not help but look at Jungwon on the bus as he was all smiles and giggles. You just figured he and his friends had a lot of fun in class beforehand.

As you got off the bus, the two of you went straight to the music shop. Mr.Kim was at the front desk and greeted you both. 

You both went straight to the practice room as the door was closed. Jungwon took his guitar case from you and smiled. “I think you should be the one to go in.” 

“Huh, what?” You replied in question.

“Thank me later.” Jungwon walked away towards Mr.Kim as you looked to him in confusion. 

You opened the door as you saw Jay sitting right in the middle of the room. He was sat on the wooden stool and had his guitar in his hands. You gasped a little, closing the door behind you. “J-jay?”

“Y/N,um I wanted to do something special for you,” Jay said a bit nervously. “I hope you like the song I’m about to sing.”

Jay started to strum his guitar and you instantly covered your mouth in shock. It was the song he sang at the talent show.

You felt tears well up in your eyes, a bit overwhelmed. No one has ever serenaded a song to you or ever done something special like this before. It felt like you were in your little romance movie and you were the main character. You were lost for words and could not believe it. 

Jay really did all of this for you. 

As soon as Jay finished singing, he looked up towards you and put his guitar down. He stood up and pouted. “Why are you crying? You didn’t like it?” He wiped the tears off your face, shocked by your reaction. 

You shook your head. “No, no. I’m just- no one has ever done this for me, thank you.” 

“I know it’s obvious but Y/N I like you a lot.” Jay took in a deep breath as he then held both of your hands in his. “Remember the first week I was here? I said I hope you change your mind on some things?”

“Gosh, how do you remember that?” You laughed a little, biting your lip. You tried to hold in more of the tears that streamed down your face.

“I liked you the first time I met you. The more I got to know you and the more I got to be around you, my heart started to save a spot just for you. I know we have a long way to go but I want to be with you.”

“It’s so funny how I despised you at first for no reason.” You let out a small chuckle. “But now, I really want you to stay in my life Jay. I really do.” 

“Can I be your boyfriend Y/N?” Jay asked.

“Yes, yes you can.” You smiled. “100 times yes.”

You swooped in and kissed Jay. He puts his hands on your cheeks and you can feel the tears subside. You did not want to let him go. He was all yours. 

You sat with Jay on the bus, on the way to the mall. Your friend group wanted to go watch a movie and get some milk tea before finals next week. 

“Y/N, I need to tell you something,” Jay spoke up.

“Mhm, what is it?” You asked.

“Well, you know how my Grandpa isn’t doing well? My mom wants my uncle and I to fly for a few weeks to go visit right after our break starts.” 

“Oh wow Jay, don’t even worry, you need to go.” You replied.

“She’s been talking with my dad about me coming back…” 

“Like permanently?” You asked. 

“I don’t know to be honest.” Jay sighed. He took your hand in his as he looked to you with a weary smile. “I don’t want to just leave you guys.”

“There is always FaceTime and we can always visit each other if you do need to stay.” 

You wanted Jay to focus on his time with his family. They needed him more than ever now and plus with him here, he could not give them his full support. He needed to be there. 

“Thank you for being so understanding Y/N,” Jay said as he kissed your forehead.

“We’ll get through this.” You smiled as he put his arm around you. You got your earbud as you put one in your ear and the other in his. “Here, let me show you my favorite song right now.” 

It has been around a month since you last saw Jay. He was currently in Seattle with his uncle to visit his Grandpa. You remember him putting his head on your shoulder, stressed about everything a day before he left. You reassured him that everything will be okay and that his Grandpa will recover soon. 

You spent Christmas and New Year at your Dad’s side of the family in New Jersey and stayed there for the entire winter break. You and your friends all facetimed during New Year's, staying up just for Jay to reach New Year's at his place. 

Jay did not come back in time for school to start. He was gone for the first and second week, telling you and your friends that his parents wanted more time with him before he came back. You admit you were a bit scared he would end up staying there. You did not want to say anything and just kept your thoughts and feelings to yourself. You just wish you had more time to do things as a couple if worse did come to worse. 

It was a Tuesday afternoon and the snow started to fall outside. You heard your classmates rush to the window in awe, happy that the snow finally fell after so long. You look as the snow starts to cover the trees and bushes and the parking lot having white specks on the pavement. 

With nothing to do in your free period, you just sat in the library, catching up on some schoolwork and some preparations for college. Ningning joined you as she had nothing to do in her free period either. 

You decided not to tell Jay yet that you got accepted to all the universities you applied to and got into the one in the city. It was a perfect distance from home to school and you could just take the bus still. He did not mention anything yet to you about his applications so you waited until he’d come back.

“Wow, the snow finally came,” Ningning muttered as the two of you looked towards the large window pane by the side entrance. “It seems heavier than usual.”

“We can finally have a snowball fight with the others.” You smiled. “I need to show Jay.” 

“He’s missing out that’s for sure,” Ningning replied as she looked back down to her work.

“I’m just relieved his grandpa is doing much better, Jay told me he can finally get some sleep.”

Jay’s grandpa made a recovery as soon as he and his uncle arrived. He assumed that his grandpa just missed him and what not. You were relieved knowing that his grandpa was doing better than before.

“Me too, that means he can come back to you.” Ningning cheered as she let out a cheeky smile.

“Yea, yea.” You smiled. 

You admit you did miss Jay but knew he needed time with his family. He was appreciative of how understanding you were and felt bad you could not celebrate your first month together physically. He even bought a small cake for both of you and blew it on FaceTime as a celebration. 

“Oh yea, don’t forget, we need to reply to the admissions offices to our chosen schools by the start of February.” 

“Mhm, I’ll get that done soon.” You replied, going back to work on your essay.

“You decided on where you want to go?” 

“Yeah, I think I’m going to stick to our local university.” 

“I’ll miss you Y/N, we really been together for so long.” Ningning pouted. 

“Don’t worry I will try to visit often and you need to give me a campus tour. We got a deal?” 

“Sounds like a plan.” 

You plop yourself on your bed, grabbing your phone from the top of your desk drawer. After helping your grandma load the dishwasher, you and Jungwon went up to your bedrooms to do some homework. You both were full from the delicious dinner your grandma made and could feel a nap coming in. 

 As Jungwon decided to stop lessons until Jay would get back, you were able to go home earlier and just work on homework. You both spent more time with your grandma, watching her favorite game shows. You and your friends would sometimes tag along with Jungwon and his friends to the arcade. Jake and Sunghoon were helping everyone get the stuffed animals they wanted you, Ningning, and Julie just sat back down, watching it all unfold. 

You glance towards the Pompompurin Jay won for you on the top of your pillows. You smiled to yourself, thinking of him. 

Jay has not texted since late last night. You wondered if everything was okay and decided to check on him. He usually was a fast replier too so you were curious if he was just busy with his family. 

As you were about to text him, his Caller ID appears on your phone screen.

“Jay!” 

“Y/N, I am super sorry, I got busy.” Jay said on the other line. You can hear him panting a little like he was out of breath.

“Are you okay, you seem like you ran a marathon?” You asked as you sat up.

“Look out your window.” 

“What?” 

You stood up from your bed and walked towards the window by your desk. You saw Jay on the side of the street, waving towards you. 

He was here. He was right in front of your window. 

“Oh my god-” 

“Surprise!” Jay said as he waved, jumping. 

“Stay right there, don’t move.” 

You ended the call, immediately getting your winter coat. You ran down the stairs, grabbing your boots, telling your Grandma you’d be back in a few minutes. You opened the front door and ran down the porch as Jay appeared right in front of you. You ran to him and into his arms as he held you tightly. You kissed him out of excitement and pulled away, holding his face in your hands. “You’re not a figment of my imagination right?”

“No, I’m here.” Jay chuckled. “I missed you so much.”

“You’re here for good or you’re heading once we graduate?” You ask. 

“Well… I wanted to tell you but I wanted to tell you in person.” Jay held you close. “I got into the university you wanted to go to. Well, more like we wanted to get into.” 

“Jay, wait, you too?” You smiled. “Me too.”

“I told my Mom I wanted to stay and go to school here. I told her I didn’t want to leave you plus it was the change of scenery I needed away from home.” 

“We are doing this?” You asked as he nodded his head. “I’m not letting you go that easily Y/N.” 

You hugged Jay again, smiling.

You had your fair share of crushes and infatuations, but never did it lead to anything. Jay proved to you that you do deserve someone who loves you just as much as you loved them. He showed through his actions that he cared deeply for you and that he wanted to stay with you even if things were a bit rough at the start. With the snow starting to fall again, the both of you looked up and back at each other. He came right in time to experience the first day of snow with you. 

“Come in, it’s freezing out here. I think my Grandma would like to meet you.” You smiled. “Lead the way,” Jay replied as you held his hand. 

You both walked back to the inside of your house as Jungwon stood on the front porch. Not knowing if he stood there the entire time, you looked at him as he clapped his hands, calling out to Jay. He waved to Jay and immediately hugged him. 

“Y/N move over, I missed my guitar teacher.” Jungwon joked as you laughed, letting him and Jay have their little reunion.

You then welcome Jay into your house as he meets your Grandma who instantly smiles upon seeing him remove his shoes. She greets him, telling him to take a seat. Jungwon stands next to him, immediately bringing over a baby photo of you from the top of the fireplace. 

You closed the front door, removing your shoes. You looked towards the sight in front of you, smiling. Jay looked back at you, holding your baby photo, gawking over how adorable you were.

“Y/N, come here, I’m going to make you guys some hot chocolate.” Your grandma motions to you as she walks into the kitchen.

You nodded your head, removing your coat, and walking over to the living room. You sat next to Jay as he started to go on and on about your missing two front teeth in your baby photo.

You giggled to yourself as Jungwon brought more photos over to him. 

Oh, how thankful you were for dropping Jungwon off to guitar lessons that one summer day back in August. 

© loveyhoons , 2024

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[agentstarkid]

ENCHANTED TO MEET YOU ✦ DR3

✦ DEBRIEF: Amid the vibrant energy of a New Year's Eve party, chance encounters led to unexpected connections where captivating eyes, a charming accent, and a carefree personality were all she needed to be forever enchanted by his presence.

✦ PAIRINGS: daniel ricciardo x famous!latina!reader

✦ CHECKERED FLAG: 7.3K words

✦ TRACK LIMITS: female!reader, latina!reader, fluff, really sappy thoughts, there's a nine-year age gap.

✦ MAY'S RADIO: holis babes! i'm back with another attempt at writing! the last chapters were angsty and i needed a lil bit of equilibrium so please enjoy reading how the night they met went. Y'all can thank Tally for it <3 + FYI, the next chapter is nowhere being finished yet—this is a little treat for y'all because of that— this past month has been crazy at my job and the chia seeds' harvest season starts in June so I'm not sure how much time—or energy—I'll have. I'd probably be a bit absent but I'll try my best to keep this show going. Also, can you guys find all the references? 👀 PLEASEEEE let me know what you think of this. 'kay, byeee.

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December 31st, 2019 | 6:27 p.m.

As the world buzzed with excitement in anticipation of the approaching New Year, with its promises of new beginnings and fresh starts, I found myself yearning for something different. While others eagerly made plans for extravagant celebrations and wild parties, my heart longed for the simple comforts of home. The allure of crowded festivities and glittering fireworks paled in comparison to the warmth of my own cozy sanctuary, where I could embrace solitude. In a world that seems to thrive on noise and commotion, all I desired was the quiet embrace of familiarity and peace.

Despite my steadfast resolve to stay home, I found myself facing relentless persuasion from a certain Dutch DJ, my long-time friend Martin Garrix. His invitations to join him at a New Year's Eve party in New York, where he was scheduled to perform, grew more insistent with each passing week. Not content to pursue this endeavor alone —and knowing he wouldn’t be able to win this battle by himself—, Martin enlisted the help of my closest confidantes—Fio, my ever-reliable personal assistant; Vittoria, the vivacious soul who never shies away from adventure; and Danna, the wise and grounding presence in our lives.

You'd think that at 21, with a career that keeps reaching new heights everyday, I'd be excited to join those types of celebrations.

Nuh-uh.

Years ago, the prospect of attending a high-profile party filled with celebrities and socialites would have thrilled me beyond measure. Back then, I reveled in the glamour and excitement, relishing the chance to mingle with the elite and bask in the spotlight.

Furthermore, the aftermath of my final breakup with Harry —after two years together and the last year of it being on-and-off— had left me feeling disillusioned and wary of the intentions of those around me. Once the darling of the celebrity circuit, I now found myself excluded from the inner circles I once frequented, my invitations to exclusive events dried up almost overnight. It's a harsh reality I had to come to terms with, one that has left me questioning the true nature of the friendships I once held so dear.

With Martin's persistent pleas ringing in my ears, I gathered my resolve and attempted to explain my desire for a quiet evening in. “Guys, I really appreciate the effort, but I just want to stay home tonight,” I insisted, sinking deeper into the cushions of the couch. “I've been looking forward to a High School Musical marathon all week.”

Fio, my fiery assistant, raised an incredulous eyebrow. “High School Musical? Are you serious, chica? This is New Year's Eve! Yo lo que quiero es que salgas a janguear patabajo y pasarla de show. You can watch Zac Efron dance any other night!” Hailing from the sun-kissed shores of Puerto Rico, she wore her heritage proudly, her voice ringed out with the rhythmic cadence of her native land.

Vittoria, the true embodiment of Brazilian beauty and spirit with her sun-kissed complexion and luminous smile, chimed in with a playful grin. “Yeah, fofinha, come on! You can even ask Martin to play ‘The Start of Something Newʼ if it pleases you,” she grabbed my left hand between both of hers and tugged at it, “We can dance and sing along to Zac Efron together at the party!” she exclaimed, shaking my arm excitedly. 

Well... I could definitely ask Martin to play it, he'd probably say yes in a heartbeat if it meant I would cave in and go to this party. After all, he's been awfully insistent on my attendance. 

Danna, the 23-year-old American with an effortless grace and quiet confidence, offered a gentle smile. “I understand wanting a cozy night in, but trust me, you'll regret missing out on this party. It'll be a night to remember.” she punned with a wink and smiled when Vitto offered her an enthusiastically high five. Vitto sometimes reminded me of a puppy with an impressive amount of energy and excitement, always prompting me to try and keep up with her and leave my comfort zone.

Despite their protests, I remained steadfast in my decision. There was no way I was moving from this couch. “Thanks, guys, but I'm sticking to my plan. You all go ahead and have fun without me.” However, I was but a simple human surrounded by three forces of nature and it was super clear that my friends had other ideas and soon they were bustling around me, pulling me off the couch and insisting I get ready for the night ahead.

Reluctantly, I allowed the girls to coax me off the couch and into action. With Fio's enthusiastic energy, Vittoria's impeccable sense of style, and Danna's calming presence, they transformed my quiet night in into a whirlwind of preparation for the party.

Fio rummaged through my closet, pulling out a stunning short dress made with net-woven high-end silver jewelry that would—quoting her—help highlight and show mi sazón latino among the precious stones, while Vittoria offered her expert opinion on the perfect outfit. “Uff mami, that definitely screams ‘New Year's Eve glam’!” she declared, holding up the sparkling ensemble that catched the light just right. 

Meanwhile, Danna took charge of my hair and makeup, opting for a soft, glamorous look. “You're going to turn heads tonight, babes,” she assured me, brushing a hint of shimmer onto my cheeks. 

Despite my initial resistance, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of excitement as I watched my reflection transform before my eyes.

“Who knows, babes,” Danna paused, carefully applying a nude shade gloss to my lips. “Maybe you’ll find your own Troy Bolton tonight, and have your own The Start of Something New moment” she wiggled her eyebrows playfully.

“You are on a roll tonight with the puns and references, aren’t you Dannita?” Fio peeked out her head from inside my closet and asked jokingly, letting out a laugh while she ducked from a damp sponge lightheartedly tossed her way by Danna.

“Nossa, cara! Você parece uma deusa!” Vitto exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine admiration. (Wow, dude! You look like a goddess!)

A blush crept up my cheeks at her compliment, and I turned to Danna with a grateful smile. “Seriously, Danni, you've outdone yourself,” I praised her, marveling at her skill in transforming me for the evening. “Thank you for making me feel like royalty.”

With a modest smile, Danna accepted my gratitude, her eyes shining with pride at the success of her handiwork. And then, just as the last finishing touches were being applied, she posed the inevitable question: “So, what are your New Year's resolutions?”

With a playful grin, I shrugged, the weight of the question settling over me like a familiar cloak. “I think this year,” I replied, my voice tinged with determination, “I just want to have fun and focus on myself. No boys, no drama, just me.” It was a simple resolution, yet one that carried a weight of significance, a commitment to prioritize my own happiness and well-being above all else.

As I sat there, unaware of their subtle exchange, the girls exchanged knowing glances and smiles, a silent understanding passing between them. Little did I know, they had orchestrated this moment with a shared knowledge of Martin's plans for the evening.

After I was allowed to rose from my seat, I grabbed and put on the large hoops and a set of very discreet rings that Vitto opted for, she explained to me that the expensive design I was wearing ‘perfectly adorned my tanned skin in such a way that I did not need almost any other accessory to elevate the look to its maximum potential’. 

As I waited for the girls to finish getting ready, I idly scrolled through my WhatsApp contacts' status updates, seeking a distraction from the anticipation bubbling inside me. My mom uploaded a video showing all the food they had cooked for dinner. A homesick feeling hit me even if I just came back from spending two weeks at home. Next, Martin’s status showed up on my screen, he posted a photo showcasing his DJ set getting set up for the party. I tapped on his name and took a quick selfie flipping him off playfully and sent it, he didn’t take long to respond with “Does this mean I won?” followed by two pairs of eyes emoji. “Yes” I answered, also followed with the rolling eyes emoji. 

I scrolled through a couple others, when I stumbled upon Selena’s. She posted a selfie all dolled up with her friends and pinned New York City as her location which piqued my curiosity. I composed a brief message, my fingers dancing over the keys as I typed out a casual inquiry about her plans for New Year's Eve in NYC. A response appeared on my screen moments later, “Hey girl! We’re actually heading to a party at The Bowery Hotel. What about you?” a smile tugged at the corners of my lips as excitement coursed through my body, I haven’t seen Sel in a while! We’ve been friends for years and she was one of the few people that was always there to lend me an ear and words of advice whenever I went through a rough patch in my life. “No way! That's where we’re going too! Maybe we'll bump into each other!”

“That’s awesome!!!!! I'll keep an eye out for you. See you there!” she replied. I let out a little happy sigh and shook my head. With my friends by my side, laughter filling the room, I began to anticipate the night ahead with a newfound sense of anticipation. Maybe, just maybe, this New Year's Eve won't be so bad after all.

Unbeknownst to the singer, Martin's persistent efforts to persuade her to attend the party were driven by a secret agenda. For months, he has harbored a hidden desire to introduce her to a friend of his, in the hopes of sparking a connection between them. Despite Martin's best intentions, his attempts to orchestrate their meeting have thus far been thwarted by her obliviousness to his matchmaking schemes.

After receiving the confirmation that the first part of his plan had been successful, Martin discreetly sent a text message to his friend, informing him of her attendance. “She's finally agreed to come,” he typed, a hint of excitement evident in his words. “Be ready to charm her off her feet.”

On a different hotel floor, a 5'10'' curly-haired Aussie’s mind raced with possibilities, wondering who this mystery woman could be.

With a shrug, he tapped out a quick reply, his fingers flying over the keys as he crafted a response. “Sounds intriguing,” he typed, his tone laced with a hint of amusement. “Looking forward to meeting her. Just hope I can keep up with your high expectations mate!” As he hit send, Daniel couldn't shake the feeling of anticipation that lingered in the air.

Daniel's phone buzzed again with a response from Martin, and he couldn't help but chuckle at the playful banter that ensued. “Oh, don't worry,” Martin's message read, “I have complete faith in you. Just be yourself, that’s all you need”

Daniel grinned at his friend's confidence. Despite not knowing much about this mysterious woman, he couldn't deny the thrill of anticipation that coursed through his veins. With a sense of determination, he resolved to make the most of this opportunity, determined to leave a lasting impression on whoever this enigmatic figure turned out to be.

Little did he know, this chance encounter would set the stage for a fateful meeting that would change the course of his life in ways he never could have imagined.

As the sleek black car pulled up to the curb outside The Bowery Hotel, the pulsating energy of New York City's nightlife enveloped us like a warm embrace. Stepping out onto the bustling sidewalk, we were greeted by the soft glow of string lights and the distant hum of music drifting from the rooftop above.

Linking arms, we made our way through the elegant lobby of the hotel, the click of our heels echoing against the polished marble floors. Excitement crackled in the air as we rode the elevator to the top floor, anticipation mounting with each passing moment.

As the doors slid open to reveal the rooftop terrace bathed in the soft glow of fairy lights, we were met with a breathtaking view of the city skyline glittering against the night sky. The sound of laughter and conversation filled the air, mingling with the infectious beat of the music that pulsed through the crowd.

We stepped out onto the terrace and navigated through the crowd, the scent of champagne and laughter filled the air; our eyes alight with wonder as we took in the scene before us. The air was alive with the hum of excitement for the new year ahead.

Finding a secluded corner of the rooftop, I paused and craned my neck in search of the blond responsible for me being away from my cozy apartment that night. I spotted him talking with some people near where his set was set up. When our eyes met, he waved enthusiastically, his excitement palpable even from a distance.

Exchanging quick pleasantries, Martin excused himself from the group he was chatting with, his strides purposeful as he made his way towards our little circle. With a grin that could light up the entire city, Martin reached our group, his charismatic presence immediately drawing us in. “Ladies, you look stunning tonight,” he greeted us with a cheeky smile on his face, “and well, well, well, look who decided to grace us with her presence,” he teased, his voice laced with playful banter as he directed his attention towards me.

I couldn't help but roll my eyes in mock exasperation, a smirk playing at the corners of my lips. “I had four people ganging up on me, Martin, I couldn't exactly resist for long” I replied, my tone teasing as I shot him a playful glare.

Martin chuckled, his laughter infectious as he leaned in to give me a playful nudge. “That's what I like to hear! Now, let's show you what you almost missed by being a grumpy old lady tonight,” he exclaimed, his enthusiasm contagious as he gestured towards the bustling rooftop party surrounding us.

Half an hour later, Daniel made his way through the vibrant crowd, his eyes scanning the faces around him, he caught sight of Martin amidst the sea of revelers. With a nod of recognition, he approached his friend, a curious glint in his eyes. 

Martin turned towards him with a grin, anticipation dancing in his eyes. “Hey! What’s up, mate?” he gave him a quick hug. “She's already here," Martin exclaimed, his voice tinged with excitement.

Daniel's interest was piqued, and he glanced around the crowded rooftop, searching for any indication of who Martin was referring to. “Oh, really?” Daniel replied, his curiosity evident in his tone.

Martin nodded eagerly, but instead of gesturing towards our group, he simply smiled mysteriously. “Yep, but I'll introduce you later. Duty calls,” he said with a shrug, gesturing towards the stage where he was needed.

Daniel's brow furrowed slightly in confusion, but he simply nodded in understanding as Martin hurried off to fulfill his obligations. 

Martin's cryptic reply intrigued Daniel, sparking his curiosity further. He decided not to dwell on it for too long. With a shrug, he turned his attention back to the lively atmosphere of the party, eager to enjoy the night ahead. As he mingled with his friends, his thoughts occasionally drifted back to Martin's enigmatic words, wondering who exactly the DJ was referring to and what significance they held. But for now, he was content to simply soak in the excitement of the moment and let the night unfold as it may.

As Daniel's gaze lazily scanned the room, it landed on a group of vibrant individuals, among whom stood a figure that instantly commanded his attention. His eyes locked onto hers, and he felt a jolt of electricity course through him as their gazes met. In that fleeting moment, the noise of the party faded into the background, and all he could focus on was the captivating presence of the woman before him. Despite the nagging reminder of his supposed obligation to meet someone else, he found himself unable to tear his gaze away from her, his curiosity piqued and his interest unmistakably piqued.

Throughout the night, I found myself engaged in conversation with Selena and both of our friend groups, along with a few others who had approached us. However, the initial excitement I had felt was beginning to wane as my social battery ran low. I forced laughter and plastered on fake smiles as the people around us tried to create conversation, drawn to us for our status and connections rather than genuine friendship. My walls were up and I couldn’t help but be filled with nostalgia for the days when I effortlessly navigated the social whirlwind. God knows how I was able to endure all that, but now, that shiny façade of fame no longer held the appeal it once had. My eyes kept shifting around the multitude, trying to find an escape in the midst of the bustling party. Martin had to leave us after a while to greet other people that I’m sure he also invited. And now he was on the stage making sure everything was ready for the show, so that ruled him out of the equation. 

I found myself wishing I could channel Fio's bold attitude, and just tell all these phonies to go pal’ carajo. She had this undeniable strength and fearlessness about her that I envied. I couldn't imagine myself possessing even a fraction of her confidence. Yet, all of these thoughts melted away when my gaze landed on his face across the rooftop.

In that moment, it felt as though the chaos around me dissipated, leaving only him in sharp focus. Our eyes met, and a smile graced his lips, instantly captivating me. There was something magnetic about him, an inexplicable allure that drew me in without a word spoken.

His smile held a warmth that felt achingly familiar, as if we shared some unspoken connection that transcended the bounds of time and place. With each passing moment, his gaze seemed to deepen, as though delving into the depths of my soul with a silent question: “Have we met before?” It was a question that echoed in the recesses of my mind, sparking a curiosity that I couldn't shake.

As I stood there, locked in this wordless exchange, I couldn't help but wonder about the secrets hidden behind those piercing eyes. Despite the throng of people around us, it felt as though we were the only two souls in the room, bound together by an invisible thread of fate.

Suddenly, his silhouette cut through the crowd, moving with purpose and determination. With each step he took, my heart quickened its pace, anticipation rising in tandem with the rhythm of my pulse. The air crackled with a silent energy and I found myself holding my breath caught in the gravity of his presence. The distance between us narrowed, until finally, he stood before me, his eyes locking onto mine with a magnetic intensity that sent shivers down my spine.

As he extended his hand towards me, a rush of warmth flooded through me, tingling at the touch of his skin against mine. “Hey,” he said, his voice smooth and resonant, sending a ripple of anticipation coursing through me. “I'm Daniel.” His name rolled off his tongue with a certain charm and a twinge of an accent, and I couldn't help but feel drawn to him even more. 

“Hi” I managed to say, attempting to regain my composure. “I'm Y/N.”

“Y/N,” he repeated, the name rolling off his tongue with a hint of curiosity. “Lovely name for a lovely lady.”

I could feel my cheeks flush at his compliment. “Thanks,” I replied, trying to play it cool. The spell broke for a moment as he suddenly realized that there was a group of people staring at him, his own cheeks seemed to redden for a second but he recovered fast and greeted them with a radiant smile. I couldn't help but admire the way he carried himself with such effortless charm. The realization sinked in that this wasn't just any charming stranger – holy shit, this was Daniel Ricciardo, the Formula 1 driver. 

A playful glint danced in his eyes as his eyes drifted back to me, and a mischievous smile tugged at the corners of his lips. His easy charm catched me off guard, and I found myself blushing involuntarily. I stole a quick glance at my friends, who shot me knowing looks, clearly amused by my reaction. It's as if they could read my mind, teasing me silently. 

Okay Y/N, keep your cool. He is just a dude, I thought as I tucked a lock of hair behind my ear. He is a gorgeous, smoking hot dude with a megawatt smile who smells wonderful. ¡Agh, mierda!. 

Yeah, I was fucked. I guessed it was time to put those acting skills to use.

“So, Daniel, what brings you to this fabulous party?” I tilted my head as I asked, I prayed it came out in a flirty but nonchalant way and not in a way that revealed the nervous flutter in my stomach. Daniel grinned, his gaze lingered on me. “Well, a friend insisted that I come, said it was going to be the party of the year. And, I must say, meeting someone as captivating as you was an unexpected bonus.”

A light blush spreaded across my cheeks at his words, and I glanced away momentarily, trying to regain my composure. “Flattery will get you everywhere, won't it?”

He grinned, his eyes sparkling with amusement. “I certainly hope so.”

I chuckled, trying to play it cool. “Well, we'll just have to see about that, won't we?”

He grinned, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “Challenge accepted,” he replied, leaning in closer. With a playful smirk, he asked, “But first, would you like to grab a drink?”

The playful exchange between us continued as we made our way towards the bar, the atmosphere around us seemingly faded into the background as we became engrossed in each other's company.

Our playful banter flowed effortlessly, each quip and witty remark met with a matching response from the other. It's like we were in our own little world, oblivious to the party swirling around us as we exchanged jokes and anecdotes. There's something about him that feels like coming home, yet I know we've never crossed paths before. His genuine smile and easygoing demeanor put me at ease, and I found myself opening up to him more than I had in a long time. 

We both paused to stare at the DJ in his element, the corners of my mouth turned up when the Dutchy’s words ringed in my head: I almost missed this by being a grumpy old lady. I glanced over to find him already fixated on me, he smiled at me softly and a soft flutter danced in the pit of my stomach as I caught his eyes lingering on my lips. Was it just my imagination, or did the air around us suddenly crackle with an electric charge?

I tried to keep my tone light, “So, what's been the highlight of your evening so far?”

“If you’d asked me this about two hours ago I’d say the good vibes and great company,” he replied smoothly, his gaze never leaving mine. “But now that I've found you, I think I've found the best part of the evening.”

“Oh, stop it,” I chuckled, feeling my cheeks warm further.

“I mean it,” he insisted, his eyes sparkling with sincerity. “You've got this magnetic energy about you. I couldn't resist coming over to say hi.”

I felt a flutter in my stomach at his words. “Well, I'm glad you did,” I replied, a smile tugging at the corners of my lips. “It's nice to meet someone genuine at a party like this.”

Daniel grinned, leaning in a little closer. “Tell me about it. Most people here seem more interested in flashing cameras and rubbing elbows with celebrities than having a real conversation.”

I nodded in agreement, feeling a sense of relief wash over me that he felt the same way. “Exactly. It's refreshing to find someone who values authenticity.”

His smile widened. “Well, authenticity is my middle name,” he quipped, earning a laugh from me.

“Is it really?” I teased back, raising an eyebrow playfully.

He chuckled softly. “Not quite, but close enough,” he replied. The sound of his laughter was like music to my ears, washing over me in gentle waves. I couldn't help but smile in return, feeling a warmth spread through me at the sight of his genuine amusement. There was something so effortlessly charming about him, something that made it impossible not to be drawn to him.

As the clock ticked closer to midnight, Martin, from his place behind his console, grabbed the microphone, sending a burst of excitement through the crowd. The music softened, and all eyes turned towards him, eager to hear what he had to say. With a smile, he leaned into the mic.

“Alright, everyone! Get ready, because we're about to kick off the countdown to the new year!” his voice boomed over the speakers, igniting cheers and applause.

Daniel and I exchanged surprised glances, realizing how swiftly time had slipped away during our conversation. A sheepish grin spread across our faces as we chuckled at the realization.

“Wow, can you believe it?” Daniel exclaimed, his eyes wide with amazement.

Shaking my head in disbelief, I replied, “I know, right? It feels like we just got here!”

But despite our astonishment, there was an undeniable excitement in the air as we eagerly awaited the start of the countdown. Time may have slipped away unnoticed, but we were more than ready to welcome the new year with open arms.

With the pulsating energy of the crowd and the anticipation building up, Martin's announcement seemed to mark a pivotal moment in the night. It was as if time paused for just a brief moment, allowing us to reflect on the year gone by and the possibilities that lay ahead.

As the countdown began, the atmosphere on the terrace grew electric. Each second ticking by felt charged with anticipation, drawing us closer to the threshold of a new beginning. Daniel and I joined in with the crowd, counting down in unison as the numbers on the screen dwindled.

“Ten!... Nine!... Eight!” The voices around us echoed, filling the place with excitement and joy.

As the final seconds ticked away before the stroke of midnight, I stole a moment to scan the crowd, searching for familiar faces amidst the sea of revelers. My gaze locked onto Fio, Vitto, and Danna, who were huddled together nearby. Fio, ever perceptive, caught my gaze first. With a playful nudge to Vitto and Danna, she directed their attention towards me, and they turned in unison, their eyes met mine with knowing looks and a mischievous grin spread across their faces.

With playful antics, they puckered their lips in exaggerated kissy faces, teasing me in a lighthearted manner. I couldn't help but roll my eyes at their antics, a light blush tinting my cheeks in response to their jovial teasing.

Amidst the playful exchange, a fleeting thought crossed my mind. I wondered, for just a moment, if perhaps Daniel, standing closer than before, was considering the same playful gesture. But before I could dwell on the thought, the clock struck midnight, and the room erupted into cheers and celebration.

As the cheers filled the air, Daniel and I turned to each other with shy smiles, caught up in the infectious excitement of the moment. “Happy New Year,” we said simultaneously, our voices barely audible above the din of the crowd.

For a brief moment, there was a subtle shift in the air, a silent pause that seemed to linger between us. In that fleeting instant, it felt as if time slowed down, and I found myself meeting Daniel's gaze, our eyes locking in a silent exchange filled with unspoken thoughts and emotions.

There was a palpable tension, a delicate balance hanging in the air, as if both of us were teetering on the edge of something unspoken. In that moment, it seemed as though Daniel might lean in, his movements tentative and hesitant, as if contemplating a gesture that could change everything.

Was he gonna kiss me? Oh, I wouldn’t be mad if he stole a kiss. 

Or several.

But then, just as quickly as the moment had arisen, it passed. With a soft smile and a gentle nod, Daniel seemed to reconsider, pulling back slightly as if to preserve the moment's delicate equilibrium. And in that simple gesture, the unspoken understanding between us remained.

As the moment hung in the air between Daniel and me, on the brink of something uncertain, the sounds of joyous screams suddenly pierced through the atmosphere, drawing our attention away.

Before I could fully process what was happening, I felt warm arms wrap around me, pulling me into an exuberant embrace. It was the girls, Fio, Vitto, and Danna, their laughter mingling with the cheers of the crowd as they enveloped me in their enthusiastic greeting.

"Happy New Year!" they exclaimed in unison, their voices filled with genuine warmth and excitement.

I couldn't help but chuckle at the timing of their arrival, grateful for the distraction from the almost-kiss tension that had begun to linger between Daniel and me. With their infectious energy and playful banter, they effortlessly diffused the slight awkwardness that had threatened to overshadow the moment.

As we exchanged hugs and well wishes, I couldn't help but feel a surge of gratitude for their timely intervention. In their presence, the lingering tension dissipated, replaced by a sense of sisterhood and shared joy.

And as we laughed and celebrated together, I couldn't shake the feeling that perhaps some moments were meant to be savored, not rushed. Whatever the future held for Daniel and me, I knew that in that moment, I was exactly where I was meant to be.

With infectious enthusiasm, the girls dragged me towards the terrace railings, eager to get a better view of the fireworks illuminating the night sky. Laughing and chatting animatedly, we leaned against the railing, our eyes fixed on the colorful explosions lighting up the darkness.

As we marveled at the spectacle unfolding before us, Daniel excused himself with a smile, promising to join us in just a moment. I watched him disappear into the crowd, his easy charm drawing smiles and greetings from everyone he came across.

Alone for a brief moment amidst the excitement of the celebration, I took a deep breath, allowing myself to soak in the energy of the night. The air was alive with anticipation, the promise of new beginnings hanging in the air like a tangible presence.

And as the fireworks continued to paint the sky with bursts of color and light, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the moments shared with friends, old and new. In that fleeting moment of tranquility, amidst the chaos of the celebration, I found solace in the knowledge that no matter where life took us, our bonds would always endure, guiding us through the highs and lows of the journey ahead. I felt grateful to call these incredible women my friends. And as the last remnants of the fireworks faded into the night, I turned to raise my glass in a toast with the girls following, my heart full with the promise of the new year ahead.

Just as I turned back to try and catch a glimpse of a certain Aussie in the crowd, Daniel appeared at my side with a warm smile. His eyes sparkled with the residual excitement of the celebration, and his easygoing demeanor put me at ease.

“Hey there,” he greeted me, his voice carrying over the lingering echoes of the fireworks. “Did you enjoy the show?”

I returned his smile with a nod, the exhilaration of the moment still coursing through my veins. “It was amazing,” I replied, my voice filled with genuine awe. “I can't believe how quickly the year flew by.”

Daniel chuckled softly, his gaze drifting towards the horizon where the last traces of the fireworks faded into the darkness. “Yeah, 2019 feels like it was yesterday,” he quipped, a playful twist to his words.

I couldn't help but laugh at his silly joke, shaking my head in amusement. Despite its simplicity, his humor didn’t fail to bring a smile to my face. And as my laughter echoed into the night, I noticed Daniel's own smile widening, his eyes alight with infectious joy.

As my laughter subsided, Daniel's eyes softened, his gaze lingering on me with a warmth that sent a flutter through my chest. In the soft glow of the terrace lights, his features seemed to soften, his smile taking on a tender quality.

“You know,” he began, his voice gentle, “you look absolutely beautiful under the firework lights.”

A blush rose to my cheeks at his words, a rush of warmth spreading through me at the unexpected compliment. It was a simple gesture, but it carried a weight of sincerity that touched me deeply.

“Thank you,” I murmured, my voice barely above a whisper, but filled with genuine appreciation.

Daniel's gaze held mine for a moment longer, his expression softening even further as he had the purest beam of light on his face that made my heart melt.  “Actually,” he continued, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper, “you outshine even the fireworks themselves.”

A surprised chuckle escaped my lips, and I could feel my cheeks flush with a warmth that spread from his endearing words. His unexpected compliment caught me off guard, leaving me momentarily speechless.

It was such a simple yet profoundly sweet sentiment, and it took me by surprise in the best possible way.

As Daniel's sweet words lingered in the air, a comfortable silence settled between us, punctuated only by the distant sounds of the continuing celebration. It was a couple minutes after midnight, and there were already a couple resolutions broken.

I couldn't help but chuckle softly at the thought, the warmth of Daniel's presence enveloping me like a comforting embrace. Despite the inevitable imperfections of the past year, there was a sense of hope and possibility lingering in the air for this new one, a reminder that every moment held the potential for growth and renewal.

We continued to chat and laugh as we made our way to one of the high tables to continue our conversation in a more comfortable setting. Martin even made an appearance, greeting us with his usual kind and friendly attitude. A shit-eating grin adorned his face as he saw us talking. He inconspicuously winked at me which prompted me to affectionately roll my eyes. 

Okay Martin, I get it, you were right...again. 

But one curious thing happened when Martin approached. I noticed a flicker of apology in Daniel's eyes, a subtle shift in his demeanor that caught my attention. Confused, I glanced at him, wondering what had prompted this sudden change. It wasn't until much later that I would come to understand the reason behind his apologetic expression.

Unbeknownst to me, Daniel had misunderstood Martin's intentions, believing that the girl he had spoken to him about was someone else entirely. In his mind, there was no connection between Martin's matchmaking scheme and the girl he had been conversing with all along—me.

And so, we were unaware of the intricate web of plans and schemes being woven around us. Little did I know, the seeds of something special had already been planted, waiting to bloom and blossom in the days and weeks to come.

A while later, one of the waiters passed by, weaving through the crowd. Seizing the opportunity, Daniel called out to him, “Excuse me, do you have a pen?”

The waiter nodded and swiftly produced one, handing it over with a friendly smile. Once he left, Daniel grabbed a napkin from the table and quickly sketched out a tic-tac-toe grid with the pen. With a mischievous grin, he declared, “Let's make a deal. If I win, you have to give me your number.”

I couldn't help but laugh at his spontaneous challenge, the playful glint in his eyes infectious. “Alright, you're on,” I replied, picking up the pen to make my first move. 

“But,” I paused with a smirk. I raised an eyebrow at Daniel, unable to suppress a playful grin. “What do I get if I win?” I challenged him, my tone teasing and light. 

Daniel's lips curled into a flirtatious smile, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “Well,” he replied, leaning in closer with a playful glint in his eyes, “if you win, you get my number instead.”

His response elicited another laugh from me, the playful banter adding to the already vibrant energy between us. With a nod of agreement, I made my move, determined to give him a run for his money.

However, despite my best efforts, Daniel proved to be a formidable opponent—athletes do tend to have another level of competitiveness after all, even with the smallest and silliest things—, and before I knew it, he had emerged victorious, marking the final square with a triumphant flourish.

With a mock sigh of defeat, I conceded, acknowledging his win with good humor. “Alright, you got me,” I chuckled, conceding to his victory. “Looks like I owe you my number.”

With a pleased smile he passed me his phone. As I began typing my number into Daniel's phone, focused on the task at hand, I felt a sudden movement beside me. Glancing up, I saw Daniel grab another napkin, his expression mischievous as he quickly scribbled something onto it. 

Curious, I watched as he slid the napkin across the table towards me. My eyes widened in surprise as I read the words written in his handwriting: “You are cute.”

A warmth spread through me at his unexpected gesture, a rush of flattered excitement tingling in my veins. With a playful smile, I looked up to meet his gaze, my heart fluttering with anticipation.

“Smooth move,” I teased, unable to hide the smile that danced on my lips. “But I think you've already won me over with your charm.”

As I finished adding my number to his phone, I slid it back across the table towards him. With a grin, Daniel accepted his phone back, his eyes sparkling with satisfaction at my response. “Can't blame a bloke for trying,” he quipped, his tone light and playful. 

The playful energy between us only seemed to intensify and I found myself drawn further into the magnetic pull of Daniel's presence, captivated by his whiskey-colored eyes that held a depth that seemed to unravel the secrets of the universe. And when he spoke, his Australian accent danced with a melodic cadence that resonated deep within my soul, infusing every word with a warmth and charm that was impossible to resist.

But it wasn't just his accent that captivated me—it was his carefree personality, his easygoing demeanor that made every moment feel effortless and free. He laughed with abandon, his infectious joy spreading like wildfire and igniting a spark of laughter within me.

And then there were his hands, expressive and animated as he spoke, each gesture painting a vivid picture of his thoughts and emotions. It was as if his hands had a language of their own, weaving tales of adventures that left me hanging on his every word.

Just as the party was reaching its peak and the energy in the room soared, one of the girls came up to me with a sense of urgency in her expression. “Hey babes, we need to head out already,” she informed me, a hint of regret in her voice.

My heart sank at the sudden announcement, realizing the abrupt end to the evening's festivities. With a mixture of disappointment and resignation, I turned to Daniel, silently conveying my apologies with a glance.

“I'm sorry, but Vitto's had a bit too much to drink,” Danna explained, her tone apologetic as she gestured towards our intoxicated companion. “We need to get her home.”

There was a flicker of disappointment in Daniel's eyes, mirrored by my own sense of frustration at the untimely interruption.

With a sympathetic smile, Daniel nodded in understanding, his expression reflecting a mixture of disappointment and acceptance. “Of course, safety first,” he replied, his voice filled with empathy. “Take care, and hopefully, we'll see each other again soon.”

As I exchanged final farewells with Daniel, a pang of regret lingered in the air, accompanied by the bittersweet realization that our time together had been cut short. Yet, amidst the disappointment, there was a glimmer of hope, a silent promise of future encounters.

With a nod of gratitude, I turned to join my friends. And as I reached the girls, I couldn't help but sigh softly, my concern for Vitto mixing with a hint of amusement. “Ay, Vitto,” I murmured, shaking my head in disbelief at how quickly she had managed to get drunk in just an hour.

Vitto, in her intoxicated state, offered a drunken apology and let out a soft laugh, her carefree demeanor infectious. “Sorry,” she slurred, her words accompanied by a playful giggle.

I couldn't help but smile at her antics, reassured by her good spirits despite the unexpected turn of events. “It's okay,” I assured her, placing an arm around her shoulder. “Let's get you home safely.”

As I turned to leave, I couldn't resist stealing a last glimpse back at Daniel. To my surprise, I found him still staring at me, his smile widening as he waved goodbye. A rush of warmth flooded through me at the sight.

On our way home, the girls couldn't resist teasing me about Daniel, joking about how we had spent the whole night together. Their playful banter only served to deepen my blush, fueling the whirlwind of emotions swirling within me. The city lights blurred into a mosaic of colors outside the car window and the laughter of the girls faded into the background as I found myself lost in the memory of Daniel's captivating smile, the warmth of his gaze still lingering in the corners of my mind.

I couldn't shake the feeling that there was something truly special about that smile, something that lingered long after the party had ended and the night had grown quiet. To me, it wasn't just any smile—it was warm, genuine, and filled with an undeniable spark that seemed to reach straight into my soul. It was a smile that spoke volumes, conveying a sense of understanding, a twinge of mischief, and unspoken promise that left me breathless with anticipation.

With a soft sigh, I couldn't help but reflect on the serendipitous twist of fate that had brought us together tonight. In that brief moment of connection, amidst the music and laughter, I had felt a spark of something special—a connection that defied explanation and left me yearning for more.

And as I stared out into the night, the city lights twinkling like stars in the darkness, I knew that I would carry the memory of that encounter with me forever. In that moment, meeting him felt like a spell had been cast upon me, capturing my heart in an instant.

The thought made a soft smile tug at the corners of my lips, my heart fluttering with the anticipation of what the future might hold.

At the end of the night, all I knew was, 

Daniel, I was enchanted to meet you.

[divinedelusional]

while you were sleeping

nate archibald x gn!reader

word count: 1565

warnings: tooth rooting fluff as usual, besides that I think none:) reader is really sleepy in this but again it's not a warning right?

synopsis: before christmas break you worked hard on college projects, so your sweet boyfriend takes care of you on Christmas Eve and plans a cozy Christmas morning for just the two of you♡

a/n: hi loves! this is my last christmas fic this season♡ I hope you are having wonderful time and you'll enjoy this, as I said, last xmas fic, after that i'll try to work on requests, i love what you asked for and I want to make as good as I can

Your face was actually starting to hurt from all the smiles you were giving to Nate's co workers. Nate started his internship for Time in the summer and he was doing amazing. He was happy even though he wasn't sure that was a magazine he wanted to work for, he was just living in the moment, enjoying the experience.

That's how you've found yourself at Time's Christmas brunch, carrying conversation with journalists and other people who work at a magazine, that Nate introduced you to. You had fun, you couldn't lie. It meant a lot to you to meet people working on one of the most iconic New York magazines, but the excitement was slowly wearing off. Holiday break came late this year, since Christmas Eve was on Friday, you had classes at college until Thursday and you were thankful that Time decided to throw a brunch at Christmas Eve instead of a party.

"Are you okay?" Nate asked, he was holding your hand caressing it with his thumb. He always did that when you were just sitting together enjoying each other's presence but also when he was feeling like you were somewhere else with your thoughts.

"I'm fine, promise." you kissed his cheek. "Just wish we could be home already." You guys were really close to Nate's penthouse but were stuck in a cab in traffic.

"Come on, we'll walk" Nate smiled and handed a cash to a driver. You got out of the cab waked a couple steps when suddenly it started raining. You made it home as quick as your high heels let you.

"Shit I'm freezing" you chuckled, hugging Nate when you were in the elevator. Nate held you tighter pressing his lips to your forehead. When you got in, he run you a hot bath while you were picking some clothes to change into.

"Hi baby, got you your favorite tea" he said entering your bedroom. You were wearing your favourite sweatpants and a pink t-shirt with a Grinch.

"Oh my got, were that came from?" Nate snorted. "That was part of my pyjamas set, I grew out of it, but I loved the tshirt too much."

"And you had this here in my closet?"

"I brought it here for emergencies, Archibald."

You wrapped yourself in blankets and sipped your tea while Nate went to fix himself some coffee and take a quick shower. He told you he'd be back in a minute and you can watch some Christmas movies and finally start celebrating without any pressure of your daily tasks. 25th was tomorrow and after the brunch you were free of any responsibilities. When Nate walked in he found you sprawled on a bed, deep in your sleep. You looked so peaceful, finally being able to rest after everything you'd been working at college. Nate didn't want to wake you, so he took an empty tea mug from the night stand and walked out.

You woke up to the smell of freshly baked cookies. "Natie what are you doing?" you asked even when it was obvious. Your boyfriend was wearing an apron, placing formed cookies on a baking sheet.

"Oh hiiii princess" he came up to you kissing you shortly. He tasted like chocolate and you wanted more. You'd kiss him longer if you weren't so confused and if he didn't return to the baking tray right away.

"I decided to do one last thing that need to be done before tomorrow" he informed you.

"Are these for Santa?" you asked, finally connecting the dots.

"Of course!" he exclaimed happily.

You looked at the table where you saw a batch of regular chocolate chip cookies, double chocolate batch was in the oven, Nate formed the last gingerbread one on a baking paper and on a kitchen island you could see a plate with fleshly decorated snickerdoodle ones.

"How long was I asleep for?" before Nate could respond you looked at a clock which read 8:30 pm. "Oh my God, why you didn't wake me up Nate?" you asked sitting down.

"You looked so peaceful, y/n, besides you still look like you're kinda sleepy, I think you really needed that, probably still do" he laughed when you yawned and shot him a cold glare.

"Yeah but now if I get back to sleep I'll probably be up at like 3 am" you sighed defeated.

Nate put gingerbreads in the oven.

"Well, we can decorate gingerbread men when they're ready" Nate smiled at you. You smiled back.

"Will you make me some tea? I'll clean up" you said getting up from your chair.

After two hours kitchen was spotless and gingerbreads beautifully decorated. Nate put a plate with double chocolate ones on a small table near the tree with a glass of milk and two carrots.

"You really had fun with this, didn't you?" you asked your boyfriend when you two sat comfortably on the sofa. It was your first Christmas with Nate, spend together in one apartment as a couple, so you could see for the first time how he was preparing for Christmas.

"Course I did" he said smiling, pressing his lips to your head.

"We could even make our own gingerbread house next year" you told him and he felt warmth in his chest at the idea of future with you.

You ate all the snickerdoodles you brought yourselves on a plate, laying on the sofa just talking about things. With fireplace lit, tummies full with yummy cookies and warmth from the embrace you guys been in, you didn't even notice how fast time flew by.

"Hey babe?"

"What?" you mumbled shifting in Nate's arms, nuzzling against his neck.

"It's midnight, merry Christmas!" You looked up at your boyfriend, adoration in your eyes.

"Merry Christmas, Natie" you said and kissed him sweetly, putting all of your feelings into the kiss. Unfortunately after a while you had to pull back.

"Nate I'm so sorry, but I was sleepy already..."

"Baby it's okay, you should rest right now, we'll have plenty of time for other things later" he said kissing your nose and you giggled. "Come on let's get you to bed" he give you a hand to get you out of the couch. Holding hands you went to your bedroom.

"You're gonna go to sleep too?" you asked tiredly, your face already buried in pillows.

"Yeah, I'm just gonna change quickly" Nate took his shirt off and looked through the window, suddenly getting a feeling like it's much lighter outside. "Baby it's snowing!" he exclaimed.

"Oh my god really?" you got your head up, noticing snowflakes falling. You layed down again. "That's amazing snow on Christmas finally... " you mumbled something else and then you were out. Nate chuckled to himself at your state and layed next to you, spooning you.

One more time you woke up smelling something delicious from the kitchen, only this time it was light outside and everything was covered in snow. You sighed relieved, because you thought you only dreamt of snow. You got out of bed as Nate wasn't by your side. Just like yesterday evening you found him in the kitchen, but today he was so focused on whatever he was doing, humming "Merry Christmas Everyone", that he didn't notice you coming in the kitchen. You came up to him, gently wrapping your arms around his waist. You pressed a light kiss onto his bare back.

"Oh hi, baby, thought you're gonna sleep a little longer" he turned his head to kiss you. You looked at the clock on the oven.

"Nate oh my god, we have to be at Lily's in 30 minutes" you panicked. "Wait are those Rufus' waffles?" you looked at the counter where Nate was previously putting your favourite toppings on waffles. Nate smiled as he turned around to face you.

"I called Rufus yesterday when you were napping. I told him that you were working really hard at your final projects until Thursday and we would probably oversleep anyway, so he decided to bring Christmas breakfast to us" he said pointing at the waffles, pancakes and fresh fruits. "He wanted to tell you that you shouldn't worry as we're going to see them at dinner at Waldorfs" he added when he saw you wanted to protest. You looked at him slightly shocked. "Oh and it's not the best part, come with me" Nate took your hand and covered your eyes with the other.

"Nate what are we doing?" you asked laughing.

He got you to the living room and you saw so many packages under the tree, much more than yesterday.

"Me and Dan also took all of the gifts for you that were under Van der Woodsen's tree and brought them here"

"But the ones for you too right?" you asked Nate when he hugged you from behind and kissed your neck.

"Yeah, yeah, mine too" he chuckled "Wanted to have our first Christmas morning together at our place, since you were so tired, no rush or anything."

"Nate I can't believe you did all of this for me" you said meaning taking the gifts to your place, cookies that Nate baked yesterday and how he prioritized your well being. "And all of this while I was sleeping?"

Nate laughed at your reference of one of your favorite Christmas movies. "Yeah, while you were sleeping, baby"

natie's taglist: @luluartpop @lanawinterscigarettes

(if you wanna be tagged in Nate's fics lmk! send an ask or dm)

endless appreciation for comments and reblogs♡

[imtryingbuck]

Epilogue

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x OFC!Theo

Summary: Bucky has to marry a woman who surprises him more and more as their story goes along.

Word count: 1,511

Warnings: angst. Swearing. Fluff.

A/N: thank you to everyone who liked, commented, reblogged this series. I was worried that no one was going to like it because of it being an OC but I’m so glad that some people did, you’re the best!💕

Masterlist   Series Masterlist

After a month long honeymoon in beautiful Romania they were landing back in New York, it was back to normal, sadly. Bucky really wanted to stay in Romania for as long as possible but they couldn’t.

Wanda all but rugby tackled Theo the second they got off the jet, Nat jumping in too. “I think they’ve missed her.” Bucky said to Steve and Sam.

“They wouldn’t shut up asking when she was coming home.” Steve laughed.

“What about me?”

“Don’t care about you!” Wanda shouts from the floor where she’s still hugging Theo.

“The disrespect.” Bucky mumbled with a shake of his head. “Can you get off my wife please?”

“She’s our wife now!” Nat and Wanda shout in unison causing Theo to giggle.

“She isn’t and we’ve got places to go, so let’s go.”

Bucky moves over to where the three lay on the runway and helps them all stand, his hands smoothing out Theo’s dress. “Come on pretty girl.”

In the Range Rover Theo told the girls all about Romania and the places they visited, she didn’t realise that they hadn’t arrived back home yet or that the car was pulling up to a large building. Even then she didn’t really understand what was going on.

“Pretty girl, this is yours.”

“What?”

“It’s an art gallery.”

“Oh, it’s nice.”

“It’s yours.” He tells her again, they all chuckle as her feet stop dead. Her eyes wide as she looks back at Bucky.

“Mine? Why?”

“So you can show off your art work? Do you not like it?”

“I love it! Thank you Bucky! Thank you.” She ran over to him and practically threw herself into his arms. “Thank you!”

*a year later*

Bucky’s heart was in his throat as he rushed through the hospital corridor, he couldn’t be late, he promised her that he wouldn’t miss this moment!

“She’s in here!” Wanda shouted as she saw Bucky running down the corridor with the guys in tow.

Three months after Bucky gifted Theo with the art gallery, the doors opened to the public - Theo was terrified that no one would come, she was left speechless when Sam came running in with a massive smile on his face telling her that there was people waiting down the street. And Bucky didn’t even have to threaten anyone.

Theo honestly didn’t think she was any good but when people kept asking to buy her artwork it gave her the confidence to carry on doing what she enjoyed doing.

That night Bucky and Theo celebrated a successful day at the gallery, just the two of them.

That was the night their baby was conceived.

“I’m here, I’m here pretty girl.”

Two hours after Bucky arrived at the hospital a healthy baby boy was born. Piercing blue eyes, patch of brown hair, a cute button nose, a dimpled chin. To his parents he was the definition of perfection.

“You did so well my pretty girl, so well.” He whispered as he puts her hair back up in a bun, kissing her forehead as he did. “Poor boys been cursed with the chin.”

“Shut up, I love it and yours.”

Their family came in an hour later all wanting a glimpse of their nephew and grandson. All quietly arguing with each other about who was going to hold him first.

It was Winnie that won.

“Have you picked a name for the little boy?” Sam asked as he leaned over the back of Winnie’s chair as she held his nephew.

“James Junior but we’ll call him JJ.” Bucky smiled.

Both Theo and Bucky knew that baby JJ was going to be loved and spoiled by his grandma, aunts and uncles.

Bucky wrapped his arm around Theo as sleep started to take over her tired body. “I love you my pretty girl.”

*five years later*

Not long after JJ was born Steve, Sam, Nat and Wanda decided it was time for them to fly the nest - as Sam put it - so they brought the house next door… they didn’t want to go far.

Obviously.

Since Bucky took over Michael’s businesses his empire grew, before Theo came along he would normally handle his operations himself but since Theo and the birth of his children he took a step back letting Steve and Sam take control. He still did go on business trips but never without Theo and JJ by his side.

Theo’s gallery had become so successful that she even brought a new building with her own money, her artwork was being brought and taken all over the world. There was one piece that many people had tried to buy going as far to offer millions for the piece but she wouldn’t budge. It was of Jess. It was the one project she took ages completing as she wanted it to be perfect.

As Bucky came home from being at the office, Martha greeted him with a soft smile her hand going out to take his coat off him but he shook his head. “You don’t work for me anymore Momma.”

“I know, just let me do this.”

“Fine but it’s the last time.”

The years were catching up to his other mom and with a heavy heart Bucky told her that it was time for her to retire, but making sure that she knew that she could always come home whenever she wanted. For her years of service Bucky brought Martha a new house, one that was closer to him. Winnie brought the house next to her, both Winnie and Martha now spent more time together… at Bucky and Theo’s house.

“They’re in the back yard.” She informed him. Pressing a kiss against her cheek he walked through the house to the backdoor.

He leaned against the door, watching as JJ drove his mini Range Rover - just like daddies as he said - as Harrison played in the sandbox, Theo trying to get him not to eat the sand.

Three years after JJ was born they were back in the hospital this time for Theo to give birth to a healthy baby Harrison. To them, their family was complete.

“Daddy!” JJ screamed as he saw him, driving over to Bucky - nearly hitting him in the legs.

“Hey buddy, you been good for momma?” He bends down to pick him up from the car.

“Yeah but Harry wasn’t he was eating mommas hair” the five year old giggled.

“Is that true little man?” Bucky asked Harrison who was now climbing all over Theo to get into Bucky’s arms.

“Momma hair.” Harrison began giggling along with his brother.

Putting JJ down, he quickly running off to get his car, Bucky picks up Harrison just before his foot hits Theo in the face. “You eating mommas hair again?”

“Hair!”

“I know mommas hair smells nice but we can’t eat it, little man.”

“Want sand!” And just like the two year olds mind was onto something else and wanted to be put back into the sandbox.

Putting Harrison down he went back to his toy truck, Bucky turned to face his love. “There’s my pretty girls.”

Yes they thought their family were complete after Harrison was born but it was finally whole after Theo gave birth to a healthy baby girl, just two months ago.

“See that Jessy? We’re the last ones who daddy greets.” Theo winked up at him with a grin on her lips.

“I had to greet the men of the house first, please forgive me pretty girls.” Jessy makes a gargled noise that they both take as a sign that he’s forgiven. “What about you pretty momma?”

“I forgive you Buck.”

He gets down on his knees and presses a kiss to her lips, a kiss to Jessy’s forehead and one to Harrison’s as he came climbing all over Bucky, JJ is quick to run over to his parents and siblings pointing to his own forehead wanting a kiss too.

Bucky use to think about marriage, he had dreamt about coming home after a long day at work to his wife cooking dinner or happily playing with the kids, slow dancing with her throughout the house whilst the children are tucked in bed. Sharing his dreams, fears, stories and life with his other half, a wife who he can spoil with gifts and love, but Bucky never thought it was possible for him but here he is seven years after meeting Theo, coming home to his perfect wife and amazing children, sharing his dreams, fears and life with the better half to him. Telling their children stories as they get ready to go to sleep, he could spoil his wife and children with whatever their hearts desired and more. He had more love in his whole body than he ever realised especially when it came to Theo and their precious babies.

As the sun began to set Bucky sat on the grass - the exact spot where he and Theo married - and held onto his greatest achievement.

His family.

<Previous

Tags: @sapphirebarnes @bellabarnes1378 @unaxv @skulliecadaver-blog @mrsnikstan @sebastians-love @pattiemac1 @julvrs @undf-stuff @violetwinterwidow01 @cjand10 @angrykitsune01 @drdbnkl2008

[werecreature-addicted]

I WANT A HALLMARK HALLOWEEN MOVIE. Put in the same energy as they do in their Christmas ones.

Like I know they did do Halloween movies a couple years ago but it’s not what the people want.

Those are like almond mom Christian movies that take the fun out of the spooky month.

I want coco to be replaced by pumpkin spice. Snow replaced by fallen leaves.

Girl moving into a small town and somehow finds herself at the widowed lumberjacks barn who turns out to be Frankensteins monster or moth-man.

I don’t want a Christmas prince! I want a Halloween prince. Where we get married on Halloween and by some lazy writing our baby is born on Halloween!

Decorating the Christmas tree with the town bad boy? I want to carve pumpkins with the loner werewolf.

I want that corny romance stuff. With a sprinkle of Halloween spirit of spooky miracle. Idfk.

I doesn’t even have to be hallmark that does it. There are tons of other small studios that make those kinds of movies. I just Halloween girlies to feel special.

busy businesswoman from New York City is back home for her small hometown's annual Halloween Festival/ Parade/ Celebration. She thinks Halloween is corny and for kids but also her birthday is October 31st- a fact she tries to keep secret from the rest of the town although her family eventually lets it slip.

she has a meet ugly where the town handyman jump scares her with a plastic skeleton Halloween decoration and she trips back and falls into a puddle of mud ruining her busy business suit! the man isn't a bad guy though and he gives her a change of clothes and hey- she actually looks better dressed down out of that stuffy suit.

She's still pissed though and is in the middle of threatening him with the dry cleaning bill when her Execntic Uncle/ grandpa/ town old man walks in and officially introduces the two. Definitely not a werewolfman, who's been doing all this work setting up the town Halloween festival and Female Lead Back from the big city for the holiday and for some convoluted business reason too. even though they might not like each other now they have to at least be polite for the sake of this weird random old man they both know.

It becomes clear that Definitely Not a werewolfman is too kind for his own good and keeps trying to make everyone happy by promising impossible things at the Halloween festival and puts off planning and arranging things to play with kids and drink warm apple cider with old ladies so Female Lead has to step in with her busy business skills and get things in order, things start to fall into place and hey- they make a pretty good team. and even if Werewolfman isn't as serious as her new york boys...maybe that's a good thing.

They spend the night eating pumpkin spice cookies and drinking hot chocolate while making paper bat banners for a parade float and share a kiss. things are going great until oh no!! it turns out he's a werewolf and transforms in front of her.

she is inraged he never told her this huge secret over the week that they've known each other. She doesn't care that he's a werewolf- she cares that he lied to her and the town. Then she gets a call from Business Inc. back in New York. they need her back in town TOMORROW but- tomorrow is Halloween. what will she do? will she choose the town that accepted her and the Halloween festival she worked so hard on? or job?

Werewolf man sets off the festival and it's a huge hit but the whole time he's looking for Female Lead but can't find her...she must have gone back to NEEEEEW york... but then someone jumps out at him with a plastic skeleton it's Female Lead!! she staid after all and has been at the party in a Halloween costume. something she swore she'd never wear. he apologizes for hiding the fact he's a werewolf from someone he's known for less than a month. she says she's quit her job and is staying in town with him. they kiss and say i love you. then he pulls her away from the party to make a wish on a small cupcake with a candle on it- it is her birthday after all.

The cammera pans out to a shot of the old man from before who winks at the camera. he was the spirit of Halloween magic all along (sorry there's no Halloween equivalent of Santa)

[fiapartridge]

bigger than love | jack hughes

jack hughes x reader

summary: jack’s birthday turns out to be so much bigger than you two ever thought it would be.

warning(s): alcohol, cursing?? maybe??

a/n: it’s only 9PM for me, so it’s still jacky boy’s birthday, so here’s a silly little imagine that i kinda don’t love, but considering that it’s jack’s birthday and i wanna post, here’s an imagine for the fresh 22 year old !!

The sun peeked through the sheer white curtains and you sighed upon seeing Jack’s exposed back underneath the cotton sheets. For the first time in a long time, you were happy about your life. You were truly content. And you had Jack to thank.

Actually, you had Jack to thank for a lot of things: for your friendships with his family, his teammates, their WAGs. For the places you’ve gotten to visit while being with him, and the fact that you can now properly celly — which consists of Jack cheering you on like a kid at a birthday party and spinning you around until you both felt sick.

“And the crowd goes wild!” Jack would announce, picking you up in the middle of the ice, and spinning you around like a figure skater.

You would laugh, tangling your hands in his hair as you would realize that you had never been happier.

“Jack!” you would scream.

He would place you back down on the ice, hold onto both sides of your face, and give you the biggest kiss known to man. Jack loved giving you kisses. And you loved receiving them.

You ran your hand down his back, watching him turn over in response. His eyes fluttered open and you could’ve sworn it was like the first time you fell in love with him. Every morning felt like the first time you fell in love with him. You couldn’t wait to feel like that forever.

You smiled softly. “Happy birthday, baby.”

He turned over again, laying his arm over your torso and snuggling into your body. He left lazy kisses on your neck, breathing in your familiar scent. If he could, he would lay there with you for the rest of his life— you were all he needed.

“I’ll love you more than you’ll ever know,” he murmured.

“Highly impossible,” you laughed. “But c’mon, we have things to do.”

He shook his head, anchoring himself deeper into the sheets. “Very much possible, and why,” he whined. “I just wanna stay here with you. That’s my birthday wish.”

“Too bad, too sad, Jacky boy,” you ruffled his hair. “We have a birthday party to attend.”

You removed his arms from your waist, beginning to slip out of his hold before he held onto your wrist, gently pulling you back.

“Please? Just a couple more minutes?”

You sighed, sliding back into his arms and pressing a kiss to his temple. “A couple more minutes.”

*ೃ༄

The rooftop was warm, but the mingling bodies around you made it even warmer. Jack’s closest friends, his teammates, and their significant others all gathered in New York to celebrate the 22 year old.

You sat on Jack’s lap, your arms loosely wrapped around his neck as you talked to Nico.

“Maybe let go of the picture with you and the Hello Kitty sculpture,” you said, eyeing Nico’s Tinder profile. Jack nodded in agreement.

“Well, it shows that I have a soft soul.”

“Also shows that you have a soft di—“ you slapped Jack’s shoulder before he could finish his sentence.

“Maybe use the picture of you with your niece,” you suggested. “Girls love guys that are nice to kids.”

He nodded. “You’re right. Thanks, Y/N/N.”

You smiled in response, turning your attention back to a frowning Jack.

“Now what’s wrong with you?” you asked, a smile gracing your lips as you pulled him closer.

“Have I ever told you that I love you?”

You squinted. “Mmm, only a couple hundred times today.”

“A couple hundred and one: I love you,” he grinned up at you, like he was staring at the stars. You had that effect on him. Jack didn’t think he would ever love anyone, or at least have the time to love anyone, as hockey was his number one priority, but when he met you, it was like every wall he’s ever built was broken down by your smile, and your jokes, and your kisses.

And he loved you in a way where “love” was too much of an understatement. It didn’t serve you two justice. What you had was bigger than that.

To him, you two were bigger than the whole world.

Quinn walked over with a drink in one hand and a second one in the other. He smiled at you first, greeting you with a handshake that you two made back in Michigan a couple of months ago before turning his attention to his younger brother.

“Drink up, Z’s here,” he said, taking a big swig of his drink— and the other.

Jack shook his head, laughing. “Your guys’ feud has nothing to do with me.”

“No, no, you brought the guy into our life, this has everything to do with you.”

You couldn’t contain your laughter. “You guys are like children.”

You shook your head before standing up from Jack’s lap as he whined in response, trying to get you to come back down. “I’m gonna go say hi to Coley and get you a drink— Tequila Sunrise, I know. And you,” you looked at Quinn. “Please try to be civil— or at least limit the insults to two,” you said, patting his shoulder as you spotted Trevor on his way over to the Hughes boys.

You made your way to the bar, as you shouted, “Cole!” The poor boy flinched upon hearing his name before his arms took hold of your shoulders.

“Y/N/N! Nice to know Hughesy finally got his death grip off of you,” he chuckled, leaning back against the bar.

You shook your head. “I’m not always with him.”

“And Turcs and I don’t call you Y/N Hughes,” Cole shrugged. “See, we can’t both be liars.”

“Where is Turcs, anyway?” you asked, looking around the rooftop to which you only saw people dancing and Nico getting more help on his Tinder profile from Marino.

Cole laughed. “Trying to stop Quinn and Z from killing each other.”

You rolled your eyes, finally spotting Alex in between Trevor and Quinn, and trying to hold back his laughs because, to be honest, they were ridiculous. The last time they fought, which was yesterday, they were arguing over Trevor eating the last pancake with blueberries in it. You had to make Quinn a single blueberry pancake just so they could be even.

You felt like their mom on most occasions. The feeling didn’t help when Luke began to call you and Jack his parents once he moved in with you guys in New Jersey. You found it funny, though. It was like having children without the actual ‘9-month pregnancy’ part.

“So, when are you and Jack getting married?” Cole asked, causing you to choke on your drink.

“Sorry?” you prompted.

“You guys have been dating for six years. Don’t you want him to pop the question already?”

You ran the question over and over in your mind.

You’ve loved Jack ever since the moment you met him — literally — you ran into your mom’s arms after meeting Jack and his family the day they moved into the house next door. You told her he was your soulmate; that you were gonna marry him someday. And although it sounded naive and stupid back then, the realness of it all started to settle with you for the past couple of months.

Did you want Jack to ask you?

You expelled a breath, staring heavily at your hands like they held the most important answers in the world.

“If Jack asked me to marry him, I wouldn’t say no.”

ೃ༄

You and Jack laid in your bed, clothes thrown somewhere around the room, long forgotten. Your fingers were drawing shapes on his chest as Jack played with the ends of your hair.

“How was your birthday?” you asked, breaking the comfortable silence you two built.

Jack smiled. “The best. Thank you, baby,” he kissed your head and ran his hand up and down the expanse of your back. When it felt like he had more to say, because he always does, you felt him pull back.

You furrowed your brows, visibly confused. “Tell me.”

You knew him better than everyone else— sometimes he loved that, and sometimes he hated that. Right now, he didn’t know how he felt about it. Did he really want to tell you what’s been on his mind ever since the party? What’s been on his mind since the day you moved in with him, told him you loved him, since the day you first kissed him. Since the day he laid eyes on you.

He knew better than to keep secrets from you— they never lasted long, but this one? This one held the weight of the world. But you two were bigger than that, remember? You were bigger than love, so why was this so hard to say?

Your hand moved from his chest and up to his cheek, angling his head down to look at you. When you caught sight of his green eyes, you wished you could see right through them. You wished you could hear what was going on in that beautiful head of his. What was he not telling you?

He sighed before letting go. He could never keep anything away from you, because you, Y/N L/N, you made Jack Hughes weak.

“I heard you today.”

That was all he said. He heard you. You wondered what he was talking about. Surely he heard a lot of things you said today, I mean, he was with you the entire time. What was so hard to say?

“Okay,” you said, not fully comprehending. “What did I say?”

He paused, thought about his words, and said, “You wouldn’t say no if I asked you to marry me.”

Oh.

That.

“I, uh,” you stammered. “I didn’t— well, I mean, I did, but I— really, this is Cole’s fault. If he never asked, I wouldn’t have admitted it. But yes, I did say that, but I didn’t say that, you know,” you laughed nervously. When you were nervous, you just couldn’t stop talking. Your mom called you “the little train that could,” because you just never stopped! God, you wished you could stop.

“Marry me.”

I guess that was all it took to make you stop.

You shook your head. “Sorry, I— um—“ you laughed. “It sounded like you told me to marry you.”

“Because I did,” Jack said. He angled your head up to look at him, watching your confused eyes and the gears in your mind turn.

“I know I don’t have a fancy ring, and I’m not on my knees in front of The Grand Canyon, but when I heard you say that, I didn’t want to wait. I want to marry you, Y/N. I want to feel like this forever— with you.”

“Okay,” was all you whispered.

“Okay?”

You smiled softly. If you knew anything, you knew this. There was no doubt about it. “Let’s get married.”

Jack laughed, sweeping you up into his arms and kissing you like his life depended on it. He kissed your cheeks, your forehead, your nose, your chin— everywhere. The man worshiped you. He couldn’t wait to tell his family.

“Good birthday, Mr. Hughes?”

“The best, Mrs. Hughes.”

[mvpswift]

tease - juan soto

warnings: smut!!! fingering!! MY FIRST SMUT SO BARE WITH ME!!!!

the new york air brushed against your skin. as you sat with the other wives and girlfriends of the yankees team. sipping on some margaritas, as you all caught up and watched the game in front of you. your soto jersey hanging on your shoulders as you watched number twenty-two up to bat.

the yankees game was tied in the 9th. the stadium hoping their team could walk it off in this inning. everyone held their breath as the pitch was thrown to your fiancee. then, the sound of the bat-filled the stadium. the ball went past a fielder and into the outfield, scoring gleyber torres. the crowd erupted in cheers as the yankess celebrated the walk-off.

you jumped up and down with the other WAGs. your eyes watching number twenty-two as he celebrated with his teammates. of course it was juan who walked it off. he was having a crazy year. and you were so proud of him. this meant a lot to him, you knew that.

and you couldn’t deny how good juan looked. as the reporter interviewed him — your eyes scanned his frame. the jersey off and him in a tight black long-sleeve shirt. you were practically drooling. all you wanted to do was pounce on him right then and there.

after what seemed like forever. the wives and girlfriends met with their significant other. you leaned on the wall as you waited for juan to get out of the clubhouse. he always took the longest.

finally, juan came out with aaron judge. the two were talking about what to do next. if they wanted to go out with the team or not. you didn’t care either way, as long as you got to spend time with juan. plus you were starving anyway.

“hey love.” juan spoke wrapping his arms around your waist before placing a kiss on your lips.

“would you be okay if we got some food with the guys?” he asked.

“i’m starving so i’m down.” you smiled as he intertwined your fingers with his. the two of you walked out into the summer air. he opened the car door for you, before getting into the passenger seat himself. pulling out of the parking lot.

suddenly you felt his hand on your bare thigh. you were wearing short shorts and a half tee. it was quite hot in new york right now. which made you decide on the outfit choice.

the music was playing lightly in the background as juan drove. you noticed his hand getting closer and closer to where you wanted. your mind was spinning as you felt him getting more and more dangerously close to your core.

“what are you doing?” you asked him. you knew exactly what he was doing. but to do it in the car? as you were about to see your friends?

juan pulled into the restaurant parking lot. juan finally slipped his fingers under your underwear which made you gasp. his fingers working on you. which made you whimper. his lips were attached to your neck, placing kisses along it. gently sucking on your sweet spot he knew so well.

“cum for me baby,” juan whispered against your skin.

you let out another whimper before following his command. juan chuckled before kissing your neck again. pulling his fingers away.

“you just looked so hot tonight. i had to do something about it,” juan smirked.

“what am i supposed to do now?” you asked him, pointing to your neck. you were talking about the hickey he had left there.

juan shrugged before leaning towards you again. his hot breath brushing against your ear.

“it’s just a preview of what i’m gonna do to you” juan whispered in your ear. before getting out of the car and going to your side of the vehicle and helping you out of it.

“people are gonna notice this!” you state as the two of you walk through the parking lot. juan chuckled and gave you a shrug.

“everyone will know you're mine.”



[earthtoharlow]

Flashing Lights

12) Yellow

Jack Harlow x Singer!OC

Series Masterlist

“The charismatic rapper’s second album captures absolutely none of his real-life persona.”

“There are ways that Harlow could position it as a real album, able to point to specific points of growth on tracks like “Side Piece” and “Poison (Ode to Maryse)” which are meant to be adult and sexy, or the closing “State Fair,” which finds him reflecting about how he’s famous but still the same guy.”

“Harlow, despite the growing fame and unending fascination, is still finding his footing. He is funny online and in interviews and knows how to grab people’s attention. Without much to grasp with his music, it’s easiest just to stare.”

-Pitchfork

Jack clicked his teeth and ran a hand through his hair as he read the reviews on Come Home The Kids Miss You. He would be lying if he said the negative reception didn’t upset him. Despite putting so much time and hard work into the album, it wasn’t enough. What if the music critics were right? Maybe he hasn’t found his footing yet, even though he’s been in the industry for years now. Was this album career ending?

He didn’t realize he was biting his manicured nails until Maryse came from the restroom and interrupted his thoughts.

“What are you thinking so hard about?” Maryse asked as she crawled into bed next to him. They hadn’t seen each other in weeks, Jack had just wrapped up filming the White Man Can’t Jump remake in California, while Maryse was preparing for tour and for her upcoming role as Belle in the 30th Celebration of Beauty and the Beast.

Jack was only in New York for less than 24 hours as he just performed at the Governors Ball, the two didn’t know when they were going to see each other again as Jack was headed back to California to perform at the BET Awards and then straight to Sweden.

Putting his phone face down on the side table, he turned to face her. “Just thinking about how much I missed you.”

“Yuck!” Maryse said with a roll of her eyes, Jack pinched her hip making her jump.

She leaned closer, pressing a kiss to his lips feeling him relax a bit. She knew he wasn’t telling the truth about what he was thinking about, but knew Jack would open up when he was ready.

“I wish I was going to the BET awards to see you perform.” Maryse pouted.

“Yeah, it’s too bad you’re going to be off being a Disney Princess instead!” Jack said with a smile, he was so proud of her. Even though his career seemed to be weavering, he was glad Maryse’s wasn’t.

Maryse smiled “Oh please! It still doesn’t feel real, and it probably won’t until I put on the dress. Right now I’m just recording the music.”

She started thinking about how busy their schedules were about to get. Jack was about to be out of the country for most of the summer, while she’ll be bouncing back and forth from NY & California.

With Nate she never had to worry about long distance because even when he had away games, he was only gone for a couple days at a time. Maryse always knew when he was coming home. She didn’t want to come off as clingy towards Jack and scare him away.

Maryse’s thoughts were cut short by Jack reaching out and rubbing her cheek with his thumb.

“Welcome back, what’s going on that head of yours?”

Not wanting to worry him, she replied “Just thinking about how much I’m going to miss you when you’re off being a superstar!”

Being called a superstar now suddenly made his stomach turn. “Yuck!” Jack said, mocking Maryse from what she said earlier.

Jack pulled her closer against him, as they were now cuddling. “Let’s stop thinking about how much we'll miss each other and just enjoy these last few hours we have together.”

Maryse nodded knowing he was right. “Goodnight, I love you.” She said, picking up his hand that was around her waist, giving it a gentle kiss.

Jack kissed her forehead. “I love you too, I’ll meet you in your dreams.”

***

“Okay, you’re going to join Coldplay’s world tour.”

Maryse squealed in her seat. She has always been a fan of Chris Martin.

Coco continued “you’re going to be replacing Camila Cabello, her last stop is the 24th of September and you’ll be starting October 11th in Brazil.”

Maryse eyes widened “Brazil?! Holy shit I’ve never been to Brazil before, this is going to be amazing!”

Her manager gave him a smile, happy for her client. “Yes, so we have to start preparing soon. Coldplay's team wants us to start drafting a stage design for your set.”

Maryse nodded, writing down notes in her notebook, she hadn’t even thought about a stage design always content with just having a microphone and chair.

“and then the most important part is figuring out your setlist, we know you’re going to perform your hits but we need some deep cuts as well. I would start working with your band now on that.”

She started bouncing in her seat with excitement, she couldn’t wait to tour and see all of her fans from all over the world.

The team went over smaller details before Maryse was able to leave and go home. When she was finally settled she immediately called Jack hoping he was still awake. He was currently in London as he was going to be performing at Wireless.

Pressing the phone to her ear, the phone continued to ring and as it was just about to go to voicemail Jack picked up.

“Hey, M.” Jack answered, not sounding as excited to hear from her as she thought he would be. Maryse tried not to think so hard on it, figuring he was exhausted from the traveling.

“Hi baby! I miss you so much!” Maryse cooed into the phone.

Jack was laying in his hotel room, he would be leaving in a few hours to go perform. He was exhausted and was feeling homesick.

“I miss you more.” And he did, so much.

“I wanted to call you cause you’ll never guess who I’m going on tour with!” Maryse said excitedly.

Jack rubbed his chin in thought, interested in finding out. “Ok, who?”

“COLDPLAY!” She squealed into the phone

Hearing her so excited made him smile. “Holy shit! Maryse, that's incredible! You think you could get Chris Martin’s autograph for me?” He said jokingly and laughed when she clicked her teeth.

“Ignoring that, but it starts in Brazil in October but I’ll be leaving early in September just to get everything settled, like the setlist and stage.”

Hearing her say the dates made his stomach hurt. Maryse was still talking excitedly about the tour when he cut her off. “Wait September and October?”

“Yeah, I’ll be touring overseas all fall then I’ll end the year in California for Beauty and the Beast.”

The more she spoke the more queasy he started to feel. He could barely get it out as he spoke again, “So, where do I fall in all this?”

The silence on the other end of the phone was loud. “Um, what do you mean?”

Jack swallowed. “I knew there was a possibility of us touring at the same time but I at least thought we were going to both be in the U.S.”

“Well, yeah it’s unfortunate but we’ll make it work. I mean, that’s what they have planes for!” Jack couldn’t appreciate Maryse trying to figure something out. His mind was racing, and his heart was pounding. Maryse was going to be gone while he toured the U.S. Sure they could try to talk everyday but it was going to be hard with the different time zones.

“Maryse, this is different from you coming to visit me from New York or vice versa, you won’t be able to just get up and leave the tour to visit me.”

There was another long pause from Maryse, when she began to speak again he knew he was starting to upset her. But his anxiety over not seeing her for months while he was already feeling overwhelmed and homesick was getting to him.

“Jack, where is this coming from?”

He was happy for her, and unbelievably proud. She was his only peace and he wanted her around.

Jack sighed knowing he needed to turn things around. “I’m just going to miss you, that's all. But you’re right we always make it work. I’m so proud of you. Don’t ever forget that.”

“I’m going to miss you too, just hang in there okay, you’ll be back in the states soon, remember you’ll be back here for the Today Show. Plus, I made sure I’ll still be able to go to the opening night of your tour. I wouldn’t miss that for the world.” She reassured him

That made him feel a little better. “Good. I love you, M. So much.”

“I love you too. No matter what. Have a good show and I’ll talk to you soon.” They said goodbye once more before hanging up the phone.

Jack flopped back on the bed, running his hands roughly through his hair. He wanted nothing more than to just be home, and if not home then just with Maryse.

Trying to dust off these feelings he stood so he could get ready for the show later that night, to perform lyrics to songs he wasn’t even sure he believed anymore.

He just tried to remember that he just needed to get through the next couple months, and he’ll be home.

***

🥺 as always tell me your thoughts, thank you for reading

and thank you @harlowcomehome for reading the first half and letting me know if it makes sense or not lol 🫶

Tag List:

(message me if you'd like to be added or removed)

@heavyhitterheaux @hoodharlow @neon-lights-and-glitter @babiefries @bout-mine @mace23477 @snows-blog-of-fiction @dstark-0706 @harlowsbby @itsyagirljaz @leftapricotprofessorlover @comehomeimissyou@minkookie95@harlowcomehome @jackharloww@jaydaaasworld@xxkoolkatxx @kkrenae @hufflewhore128 @w1ldthoughts @jackiehollanderr @katiaw2 @halfmoondaze @babybardi2@vinniehackersbaee

[demigodsanswer]

Ballet AU Drabble: Percy knows all about Annabeth's romantic history, now she wants to find out about his, and all the women in New York who are probably still fantasizing about his kind smile and pretty eyes and also his tongue.

Drabble got longer and spicier than I expected. Will probably post to ao3 soon. Set two weeks after chapter 12

Rating: M

~

They’d been going out for two weeks, and Percy had spent half of those nights at Annabeth's apartment. Tonight was one of them.

He was half on top of her already, kissing her lazily, one of his legs slotted between hers. They hadn't decided if they'd take things further yet, but the idea was tantalizing. It was their two week anniversary after all. It was a good reason to celebrate.

But Annabeth couldn't focus her mind on his gentle touch or the teasing thigh up between her bare legs. She had promised Percy that she would work on her jealous impulses (and she was), but tonight she was losing that battle.

"I talked to Katie Gardner today," she started, pulling away from the kiss.

~

Katie was in the second cast of A Midsummer Night’s Dream as Hermia, and so she had been sharing all of Annabeth and Piper's rehearsals. On each five minute break, Katie and Piper went back to working out Piper's astrological birth chart. They'd offered to do Annabeths, but in her post-breakup months of soul searching she'd briefly dipped into crystals and astrology to no avail. She didn't like what the stars told her about herself, and the shiny rocks were too expensive for what they were -- shiny rocks.

Piper had been the one to suggest the figure out Percy's birth chart.

"He's a Leo," Annabeth and Katie said at the same time.

"I did his birth chart for him years ago," Katie said. "I don't remember his rising, but I remember he was a Cancer moon, because I was surprised at first," she looked at Annabeth, "but he really is very sensitive and sweet." It almost sounded like a Percy Jackson sales pitch, and Annabeth wanted to tell Katie that it was unnecessary. She was sold on Percy Jackson in every way. And he was the same with her. 

Annabeth just nodded. "Yeah," was all she managed to say.

Katie had gone on to explain -- either ignorant to Annabeth's bubbling jealousy or indifferent to it -- that she was so happy for Percy and her. "He's such a great guy," Katie said. And she would know. They'd gone out for six months a few years ago.

Logically, Annabeth knew Percy had been with other people. He was far too skilled to have been a virgin when they first slept together. But she hadn't thought about just how many company women he'd probably been with. How many of their mutual co-workers knew ... what she knew about her new boyfriend? His mouth alone … Christ. How many times would she have something like this conversation? Katie, thankfully,  politely didn't mention anything about Percy's skills in the bedroom.

"Why did you break up?" Annabeth asked. "If you don't mind ..."

Katie gestured with her hand as if to say it's not a problem. "We didn't have a lot in common. We had fun together, but when Nutcracker rolled around, we just didn't have enough incentive to keep seeing each other. Nothing dramatic." Annabeth didn't ask about the kinds of fun they had together. "But you two? You guys seem great together."

"A Cancer and Leo? Is that a good match?" Piper asked.

Katie nodded. "It's a lot of big feelings, but as long as you communicate, it should work out great."

Annabeth hated when the stupid stars were right.

~

"I talked to Katie Gardner today."

"Oh?" He asked. "Did she tell you anything embarrassing about me?"

"She told me you were a Cancer moon," Annabeth said.

Percy furrowed his brow. "What?"

"We were doing Zodiac birth charts," she said, trying to get back on topic, but Percy interrupted her before she could move on.

"Oh yeah, she was always super into those. Always seemed kind of dumb to me. No way the stars control who we are," he said. He kissed her again. "What's yours?"

"I'm a Cancer sun, Virgo moon, and Capricorn rising," she said, growing more and more frustrated and anxious to get to her point.

"What does that mean?"

"It means I'm an overly emotional control freak. Let's move on," she snapped at him.

Percy held back a laugh. "Yeah, see? Totally inaccurate." She rolled away from him, but he followed. "No, come back, I'm sorry. What did you and Katie talk about?"

Annabeth took a deep breath. "I didn't know you and her used to go out, is all."

There was a beat of silence between them.

"That was like four years ago," Percy confirmed. "Does it matter?"

"No, it ..." she rubbed her eyes with the heels of her palms, pushing her glasses up to her forehead as she did. When they settled back down in front of her eyes, she saw she'd smudged the lenses. "It doesn't matter. I'm not jealous of Katie -- and don't worry, I didn't say anything mean to her -- but how often should I expect to have that conversation?"

She was trying to approach this with some kind of grace, but she felt herself floundering.

"What sort of thing?" Percy asked.

"Look, you don't need to tell me if you don't want to, but you know how many other men I've slept with," really what singular other man I've slept with, but that didn't matter, "I was just wondering how many company women you've been with."

Percy smiled and kissed her forehead. "I don't mind telling you. Just company women or all of the women I've been with?"

Annabeth shrugged trying to act so casual about it. "Whatever you're comfortable with," she said. She was aiming for nonchalant, but she feared she was terribly chalant.

"I've gone out with technically two company girls. Katie and ... Piper," he said, "although Piper was just one date, and we barely kissed."

"You went out with Piper?" She asked.

"Yeah, but, you know that scene in Mean Girls where Janice and Damian kiss? It was a bit like that."

Annabeth almost laughed.

"Only two? Really?"

"Yeah, and then there was my girlfriend at SAB, Cally. I lost my virginity to her. She's a soloist out at PNB now. Haven't talked to her in years," he said. "And then there was Lily. She's a dancer on the Broadway side, and a friend of a friend. We went out for almost a year actually."

"What happened?" She asked.

"It was mutual. We weren't feeling it anymore. We broke up about a year ago. But she did pick up on the fact that I was getting feelings for someone else," he kissed her. "I told Lily it didn't matter. The woman I had a crush on was getting married, but that didn't help."

Annabeth laughed, realizing who he meant. "You're such a liar," she said.

Percy kissed her, a long, deep kiss that almost made her forget about their conversation. "I am not," he said. "It was 'Diamonds' rehearsals, and I," kiss, "couldn't," kiss, "stop," kiss, "thinking," kiss, "about you."

"What about me?" Annabeth asked.

Percy's hand slid down her side, toying at the waistband of her panties. 

"Where I'd take you out to dinner, what museums we'd go to, all the things we could dance together," he kissed her again as his hand slid under the fabric, "how I'd touch you, where I'd touch you," he slipped a finger inside her, curling it a little to find that spot that quickly had her seeing stars and coming apart in ways that turned Percy into a mad man. What little arousal she'd built up while kissing had been squashed by talks of his ex-girlfriends, but without much effort, Percy brought it back tenfold.

"Who ... who else?" she asked before she lost control of herself completely.

Percy stilled and slipped his finger out of her. "That's it," he said.

Annabeth shook her head. "No way."

"Way," he promised, moving to kiss her neck and collarbone.

"Three? You've only had sex with three women?" She asked.

"Four counting you," he said, his kisses moving up her neck to her jaw, "and we should count you, shouldn't we?" He asked, his fingers slipping back into her panties.

"Yes, but ..."

"But what?"

"How are you so ... good at it?" She asked.

Percy laughed. "I don't know, I just listen? I mean, for one thing Katie and Lily were bisexual, so if I was going to compete with women I needed to make a real effort. And I'm not kidding when I say Silena and Piper have given me so many tips over the years. When I started dating Katie, Silena pulled me aside -- middle of the day, fully sober -- and explained that when a woman said she was about to cum, it meant don't change anything about what you're doing. Don't go faster, deeper, harder. Just keep that pace."

So it was Silena to whom she owed a fruit basket.

"Alright," Annabeth said, "I believe you." He kissed her, smiling against her mouth as he finally got to continue touching her. "I don't know if I'll have anything to teach you for the next girl, though."

Percy frowned against her mouth, slowing his fingers but not stopping them or removing them.

"There's not going to be a next girl, Annabeth," he said. Her heart beat hard in her chest, and she couldn’t tell if she was thrilled and aroused or on the edge of panic at his words. 

"You don't get to possess me," she said.

"I'm not asking to possess you," he curled his fingers inside her, and she lifted her hips involuntarily, seeking him out. "I'm telling you that whatever you need, whatever you want, whatever will make you happy, I'll do it. Anything, Annabeth. Anything."

"I want ..." oh god, "I want," she was close already. She still had her goddamn panties on and she was close, "I want," her brain supplied a long list of dirty things she wanted from him in the moment, "I want," he was smirking. He knew he was going to make her soak her panties and her side of the bed, and he wanted her to do it. Well, if he was going to get what he wanted, then she was going to put him to the test, "I want the moon," she said with a smile.

He kissed her, his hard cock still in his boxers grinding up against her hip. "Alright gorgeous, I'll get it for you," he promised, before tipping her right over that blissful, toe-curling edge. 

~

Four days later, he handed her a light blue cardboard box with a bow on it.

"What's this?" She asked.

"It's a present," he said. They were in her apartment again. He had planned to stay at his own place that night, but she’d woken up with her period that morning. She was cranky and her back hurt. So Percy had come over to keep her company. She was on the couch sewing more pointe shoes while he'd done the dishes. Annabeth hardly expected more gifts than not needing to touch wet food.

Annabeth opened it. It was a pair of earrings, silver with little dangling stones. Gray, iridescent, and familiar.

"Gray moonstones?" She asked. In her brief crystal phase, her moonstone had been her favorite.

"I've sent emails to Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos about getting to the actual moon, but I don't know if they'll respond. So, I hope these are okay."

She pulled him in for a kiss by the front of his tee shirt.

"They're perfect," she said, tears already in her eyes. She started to take out the diamond studs she usually wore. "You know, moonstones are a sign of new beginnings? They support emotional stability, and inner growth?"

"Huh, you know, maybe all this," he held his hands out in front of him and wiggled his fingers as if to pantomime woo woo witchy shit "isn't so dumb after all."

"Oh no, it's complete nonsense," she said, clipping in the first earring. "But it's fun and pretty."

[swissboyhisch]

Are They The NHL Power Couple or Just Best Friends?

If you know who Connor McDavid is then you would definitely know who Y/n L/n is. The young captain of the Edmonton Oilers, who is only aged 19, is very quiet about his private life, rarely posting on social media. But one thing for certain is that he constantly posts about his "best friend" Y/n L/n, or Y/n/n as he calls her. If either one of them isn't posting a picture about the other, usually someone else – either their childhood friends Y/b/f/n or Dylan Strome or a teammate of McDavid's – posts a picture of the two. The pair claims their just best friends but by the looks of the pictures, everyone expects them to be something more than just best friends. Even their close friends and family hint towards them being more than best friends. It seems like everyone wants them to be a couple.

From what we know, McDavid and L/n have known each other since birth; their parents were close friends before either of them were born. What we do know is that L/n was born in 1998, meaning she is only a year younger than McDavid. Our first public sighting of her was at the 2015 NHL draft, where McDavid was drafted 1st overall by Edmonton Oilers. There we witnessed McDavid celebrating the announcement by hugging his family and pressing a kiss to L/n's forehead, the young teenagers smiling at each other. As the years go on and McDavid becomes one of the best players in the league, their "friendship" becomes more public.

Currently, L/n is in Edmonton and our feed is getting flooded with photos of the best friends from both McDavid and L/n , along with their friends and family. These photos prove there is something between them but we don't know what that something is. Here are 10 photos to help you get to know the girl behind the youngest captain in NHL history and 5 photos that make us believe that there are sparks are flying between Connor McDavid and his best friend, Y/n L/n.

1) The Girl Behind The Captain

Y/n L/n seems to have her selfie game down pat though as she looks absolutely stunning in this picture she posted last month. It's a simple picture really, with not all that much going on, so the fact that she still manages to look so good speaks volumes. The selfie craze might be a little overdone in most cases but what we can say Connor is a lucky guy.

2) Besties

Y/n posted this photo during this past offseason when the large group of friends went on holiday to Europe, celebrating many things, like Octavia's Graduation and Connor's rookie season celebration. In this picture: Y/n L/n, best friend of Connor McDavid; Y/b/f/n, girlfriend of Oiler's forward Leon Draisaitl; Clover Bennett, cousin of New Jersey Devil's Forward Beau Bennett; Zara Strome, younger sister of New York Islanders' Forward Ryan Strome and Arizona Coyotes' Forward Dylan Strome; and Kennedy Moore, Girlfriend of Dylan Strome.

3) Prom Season

This past May, McDavid himself posted this picture to his Instagram, mcdavid97. Y/n, who was finishing her senior year, had asked Connor to be her date to her senior prom back in Erie. The caption was "Prom with Y/n/n 💕 #4". We believe that the hashtag four is the number of Proms they've attended together. Doesn't Y/n look just stunning though?

4) Talented

Just last month, Y/n represented the US at the Shotokan Karate World Championship in Paris. Her sister, Y/s/n, posted this photo, congratulating Y/n on her gold medals in her events. This isn't the first time she has been declared world champion. The young girl has travelled the world, competing and representing her country.

5) Siblings

Now we know McDavid has an older brother, but Y/n has an older sister named Y/s/n who we predict is roughly the same age as Connor's brother, Cameron McDavid. The two sisters are close, often posting photos of each other and photos together. And from the comments on their posts, all siblings are close, along with the Stromes and the Y/b/f/l/n. If we wanted to join any family, it would be the McDavids or L/n.

6) Support

Dylan Strome, now of the Arizona Coyotes, posted this after an Erie Otters game in 2015, McDavid's last season with the Otters. The caption thanked Y/n for always being at their games and being their number one supporter. It proves her, and Y/b/f/n, have been there since the start of both of their hockey careers. 

7) Future Family

Earlier this year, McDavid's older brother Cameron finally married his high school sweetheart, Holly Jensen. The day after the event, the bride posted this adorable photo of herself and her bridesmaids, including Y/n L/n (Far Right). We knew that Willow was close to the McDavids but they were closer than we thought! At the age of 17, L/n was asked to be a bridesmaid for the McDavid family wedding. She looks absolutely beautiful and we wished our puberty was that good!

8) WAG Life

At the age of 18, young Y/n is constantly spotted with the older WAGs; and not just Oiler WAGs! Even though she is not publicly known as a WAG, L/n is known to hang out with Kelly Talbot, Y/b/f/n and Mikayla Marrelli (Darnell Nurse' girlfriend) in Edmonton. But the young adult is also friends with many of the Lady Leafs, such as Stephanie Le Chance, Molly Robinson, Lucy Cashin and Sydney Esiason. But it doesn't stop there, she's also been seen with Arizona WAGs such as her best friends, Zara Strome and Clove Bennett.

9) Adorableness

Posted only yesterday by Y/n, the two friends are shown skating together, McDavid having to hold the brunette steady as they posed for the picture. If you look in the comments of the post, McDavid replies with "Just as bad as last time ❤️" and Y/b/f/n state that she's still bad at ice skating even though "she's basically dating an NHL player". I mean is that confirming everyone's wishing of them being together?

10) Future Mum

Isn't this picture just adorable?! No, she doesn't have a child; L/n just happens to love kids! She is known to be the team's babysitter when she is in Edmonton. This was posted by the teenager's older sister. The baby she's holding is the girl's niece. Honestly, if McDavid and L/n have a baby, wouldn't it be the cutest baby alive?!

11) Potterhead

This summer, we got updates on the young Oilers rookie as he experienced his first offseason of his NHL career. With his first year paycheck, he could have bought many things but instead, he decided to spoil his best friend. McDavid ended up taking L/n to the place she had always wanted to go since she was a kid, The Wizarding World Of Harry Potter. There, the pair took over the Oilers Instagram, doing a live stream as the pair sat and drank butterbeer at the Leaky Cauldron. This photo, posted by a fan, was a screenshot of the Livestream as they headed to the ride, Forbidden Journey.

12) High School Sweethearts

Y/n's best friend Y/b/f/n, posted this when McDavid was in his senior year. This was taken during Homecoming where all the athletes are celebrated for their part in the school spirit. McDavid played ice hockey for Erie Otters at this point, and well recognised at the school, while Y/n was a cheerleader for her school team while also heavily training in karate.

13) Travel Bug

How is she only 18 and yet travelled to more countries than most of us have in our entire lives? Whilst travelling the world for karate competitions, she also regularly travels during the summer with her friends and family, this year travelling to Europe with a group of friends as a graduation celebration. This stunning photo was posted by McDavid last June, he captioned this by simply putting the heart emoji underneath it.

14) Animal Lover

Don't you just want to steal this cute pup? The L/n family pet is a rescue German Sheppard, which was gifted to Octavia by her family after Connor and Dylan had been drafted in 2015. Rightfully named after Oilers mascot, the gorgeous dog is named Hunter. We don't know if L/n brought the dog with her to Edmonton, but we hope that we get more pictures of this in the future.

15) The Look

And our favourite picture of the two best friends was posted by the Edmonton Oilers account its self, reposted by the NHL official account. This year's Thanksgiving fundraiser night was a blast and after his killer rookie season and being named the captain, McDavid had a stunning girl by his side for the night. The team account posted this adorable photo of the young friends, both looking amazing. But just by looking at them, you can tell there is something more. Now it's a waiting game.

We're just saying if they were together, they would be the NHL's power couple!

TAG LIST

@penny4yourthoughts @mp0625 @nowandkei

[theeoriginals]

CHAPTER TWO:

ALL THE TIME IN THE WORLD

“where you lead me,” i said. “i’ll follow.” he laughed. “baby. baby. baby. i love you. and i’m going to build us a table and a whole lot of folks going to be eating off it for a long, long time to come.” - james baldwin, if beale street could talk

summary: the millers ring in the new year, and then celebrate sarah's birthday. joel decides he wants to settle down with blue.

warnings: the last chapter of just fluff lmao, enjoy

baby blue series masterlist

DECEMBER 31, 2002 / JANUARY 1, 2003

“Five minutes!” Sarah’s gleeful call echoed through the house, and the three adults chuckled at her excitement. 

Joel lifts his beer up, drinking the last bits of it before it gets too warm for him to enjoy. His arm tightens where it’s wrapped around Blue’s waist and she lets him pull her impossibly closer, a laugh in her voice as she and Tommy bicker back and forth. 

“Oh, come on, Miss Blue, you have to start the new year off with a kiss for good luck!” 

“And you think my good luck will come from you?” She questions incredulously, wrinkles crinkling in her face from the wide spread of her grin. “How many girls do you use that line on, huh?” 

Tommy waved a hand, smirking at the eye roll he earns from his brother. “Only you, Miss Blue, you’re the apple of my eye, the fire in my–”

“Alright now, Shakespeare,” Joel cuts in, giving his brother a faux-stern look that makes Sarah giggle. “She’ll be gettin’ a good luck kiss from someone who hasn’t spread his luck around the whole city of Austin.” 

Tommy’s jaw drops and Blue laughs loudly, the sound bouncing around the walls of the home that’s warm with the love they all have for each other. 

“Two minutes, guys,” Sarah reminds them, wiggling her way in between her father and Blue. They move easily enough, giving her the space she needs to fit amongst them. “My teacher says that a New Years kiss means you’ll find love that year,” 

“Your teacher is right, babydoll,” Blue lays a hand on Sarah’s head, tilting her head back so she’s looking up at them. “But even if you don’t get a kiss, you’ll still have plenty of lovin’ to go around.” 

Sarah smiles, but her attention is quickly torn away by the countdown beginning on the TV screen. “Look, look!” 

“We’re lookin’, baby,” Joel lays his free hand on her shoulder, sharing a smile with Blue as the timer ticked down, and the giant crowd gathered in New York on the TV began cheering as the ball dropped with each passing second.

“Ten, nine, eight,” 

“I’m saying it now, y’all, 2003 is going to be the year of the Millers. We’re kickin’ ass and takin’ names,” Blue raises a fist, earning a supportive cheer from Tommy and Sarah.

“Five, four, three, two– Happy New Year!” The four people called out over the raucous cheer from the television, and Joel leaned over Sarah’s frame to kiss Blue, the two of them smiling into it. 

Pulling apart, they shared a look before they leaned down and started kissing Sarah’s face all over, making the girl break into uncontrollable giggles. 

“Stop it, stop it!” 

Joel looks at his daughter’s flushed face, seeing her preen under the affection. “That should be enough love and luck to last you ten years, don’t you think, Blue?”

“At least ten, I think.” The woman wrapped an arm around Sarah’s shoulders and the teenager rested against her side. “She’ll be takin’ over the world before we know it.” 

“I don’t wanna take over the world,” Sarah shakes her head, scrunching her face up slightly. 

“Oh, really?” Tommy raises a brow at his niece. “Why not?” 

The girl shrugs and looks from her uncle to her dad, to Blue. “I’d rather just stay here with you guys.” 

Joel sighs, lifting a hand to cup his daughter’s cheek fondly. “You can do whatever you want, baby. You got all the time in the world.”

The night wound down shortly after the clock struck twelve, and Tommy ended up on the couch with his feet hanging over the end of it while Joel cleaned up as quietly as possible. Blue took it upon herself to help Sarah into bed, tucking the girl in as she faded into a sweet sleep. 

Leaning over the girl, she pressed a kiss to her forehead, smiling when Sarah leaned into the touch. “Goodnight, babydoll. Sleep tight, and don’t let the bedbugs bite.” 

“Blue?” Sarah mumbles, sleepy eyes looking up at her in question. “Are you gonna be my mom now that you’re moving in with us?” 

The woman stills, looking at the open bedroom door and suddenly wishing Joel were there to handle this delicate question. Clearing her throat, Blue smiled softly. “You already have a mama, Sarah.” 

Sarah shakes her head slightly, brows furrowing. “Yeah, but she left my dad. I don’t even remember her, and dad never talks about her, but Uncle Tommy says she wasn’t right for dad, not like you are. So, I want you to be my mom.”  

“Oh, babydoll,” Letting out a somewhat shaky sigh, Blue smiles. “I’ll be whatever you want me to be, alright? As long as it’s okay with you and your daddy, I’ll be anything you want me to, even your mama.”

“Dad loves you,” She says, matter-of-factly. “And so do I. Do you love us?” 

“‘Course I do, Sarah. Both of you– so much. I think I’m gonna love you for a long, long time. Long as y’all let me, that is.” 

Sarah smiles then, sleepy and content as Blue smooths her blankets out again and switches on the small night light on her nightstand. “Night, Blue.” 

“Night, Sarah. Sweet dreams.” 

─────

JULY 20, 2003

“The birthday girl gets what the birthday girl wants, and your birthday girl wants pancakes,” Blue looked at a tired-looking Joel, quirking a brow when he rubbed his hands over his face, the early hour on a Sunday morning making him wish he was back in bed with Blue, still asleep. “So get up and go to the store before she wakes up.” 

“The store?” He echoes incredulously. “I don’t even like pancakes, baby, I’m not goin’ to the store at 7am on a Sunday!” 

Blue sets her hand on her hip, giving him a narrow-eyed once over. “You better hope we got all the shit to make pancakes, otherwise you’re explainin’ to my babydoll why she doesn’t have pancakes on her fourteenth birthday.” 

Joel groaned softly, smashing his face back into his pillow as Blue turned on her heel and walked out of the room, heading for the kitchen. He gets up slowly, ignoring the persistent creak of his bones and aches in his muscles as he makes his way for the kitchen, bypassing Sarah’s bedroom door that was still shut, only reaffirming the fact that Blue was up far too early. 

“Blue, what are you doin’?” 

She looks at him over her shoulder, gesturing to the small mess she’s managed to make in the five minutes it took him to get out of bed. “I’m makin’ buttermilk pancakes, what’s it look like?” 

“It looks like there was a tornado in my kitchen,” 

“Your kitchen,” She scoffs as he comes up behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist and dropping his head into the slope of her neck, still holding onto the last remnants of sleep despite knowing there’s no way he’s making it back to bed. “The other night you said it was my kitchen, and it had to be clean in order for me to use it.” 

“Yeah, but that was just so Sarah would do her chores.” 

Blue makes a noise of amusement as she slowly mixes in the concoction of dry ingredients. “Get me the vanilla extract– and the cinnamon, please. Since it’s your kitchen, Master Chef. And keep your hands to yourself, you can’t scar your daughter on her birthday.”

“Oh, Lord,” Joel groans, stoutly not moving from his place draped around Blue. “She’s seen worse. Heard worse from Tommy,” 

“I can’t believe you just used your brother as an excuse to grope me in the kitchen,” 

“What are you guys doing?” 

Blue and Joel both startle, Joel stepping back from Blue as they snap around to face Sarah standing in the entryway to the kitchen with a sleepy frown on her face. 

Clearing her throat, Blue points a finger at him accusingly. “Your dad wouldn’t go to the store to get pancake mix, so I’m making ‘em homemade for you.” 

“I can’t believe you just threw me under the bus like that–” 

“Do we have chocolate chips?” Sarah grins excitedly, cutting her dad off as she bounds towards them, exhaustion suddenly nowhere to be found. “I want chocolate chips, and whipped cream!” 

Joel grunts as Sarah throws herself against him, hugging his waist tightly, but he quickly recovers and squeezes her as tight as he can without hurting her. “It just might be your lucky day, because we have chocolate chips and whipped cream.” 

Blue shares a secret look with Joel, smiling at the girl’s excitement. “And you know, I think there might be a present for you in the livin' room, but you’ll have to go check.” 

“A present? Is it a car?!” 

“A car?” Joel echoes incredulously as Sarah pulls back, meeting his look of shock expectantly. “You’re fourteen, not twenty!” 

“I’m getting a car before I turn twenty, Dad,” 

“Not with that attitude.” 

“Blue!” Sarah whines, turning to look at the woman who’s hiding a smile behind her hand. “Tell him that I’m getting a car before I turn twenty.” 

Blue shakes her head, holding her hands up in surrender. “I am not getting in the middle of this. All I can tell you is that a car definitely does not fit in our living room, so you might be disappointed.” 

Sarah feigns an eye roll and Joel pushes her back, pointing a finger in the direction of the living room. “Go get your present while Blue finishes these pancakes for you,” 

The teenager does as told, scurrying off to the living room before she comes back with the gift bag in tow. “Can I open it now?” 

Joel nods, and Sarah pulls the tissue paper out of the bag, her smile growing as she pulls out a folded shirt, the shark-tooth necklace tucked into it, and a set of earrings. 

“Earrings?” She frowns, looking at her dad. “My ears aren’t pierced.” 

He crosses his arms over his chest, heaving a sigh as he looks between his daughter and Blue. “Blue and I have talked about it–”

“More like I had to bribe you,” 

“We talked about it,” He huffs, earning a cheeky wink from the woman. “And if you still want to, she’s gonna take you to get your ears pierced today.” 

Sarah’s eyes widen and she grins, looking at her dad. “For real? You’re gonna let me pierce my ears?” 

“If you want to,” 

“If I want to, he says,” Sarah mocks. “Like I haven’t asked you every day since I was twelve!” 

“Well, I finally got him on board,” Blue leans against the counter, looking at Sarah. “So we’re goin’ out for lunch, and then we’re goin’ to get ‘em done, and when we get home we’ll have dinner and cake, and you can have the rest of your presents.” 

Sarah launches herself at the two adults, wrapping her arms around them to the best of her ability, making them both chuckle. “This is the best birthday ever,” 

“Just wait for your sixteenth when you actually get that car you’re talkin’ about,” 

“Alright, that’s enough now,” 

“Dad!” 

───── 

AUGUST 15, 2003

"Dad,"

Joel ignores the whispered call from his daughter, his nervous hand turning the lit candle ever so slightly in the middle of the table.

"Dad!"

Joel whips around, looking at Sarah with wide eyes. "What?!"

"She just pulled in the driveway."

"Shit," He curses, backing away from the carefully set table for three. It's the nicest the Miller kitchen table has ever looked, and he applauds Sarah for her help. The single red rose sitting in a cup-turned-vase beside the candle, against the black tablecloth she'd pulled from deep in their linen closet looked as romantic as Joel Miller ever could be. "Are we ready? I don't think we're ready,"

"Dad," Sarah lays a hand on his arm, giving him a reassuring look. "You guys are practically already married, it's gonna be fine,"

He groans, forcing himself to calm. "You're right. She has no reason to say no."

"Exactly," Sarah smiles smugly as the sound of the front door opening alerts them both.

"Fret no longer, Miller family, your favorite person is home!"

Joel smiles, warmth flooding his face as he looks down at his daughter, seeing her matching grin. In unison, they call out to her. "Kitchen!"

Her footsteps come around the corner into the kitchen, and Joel finds himself floored at the sight of her smile, meeting her in the middle for a kiss that Sarah, for once, does not make fun of him for. "Hey, Blue,"

"Hi, baby," She leans in, giving him one, two more kisses before she parts from him and moves to drop a kiss onto Sarah's forehead in greeting. "I got some wine like you asked, though I'm curious as to why we're havin’ wine and not beer."

Joel huffs, briefly panicking as he shrugs his shoulders. "We're having a nice dinner, figured wine would go better," He gestures to the done-up table and her eyes fall to it, widening in surprise before a look of pure adoration floods her face.

"Oh, wow," The words are breathed out in awe, and Joel's reminded as to why exactly he wanted to do this in the first place. Because she's always looked at him and Sarah and the things they do as the best. From nosebleed seats at a football game, to simple, homemade dinners with a rose and a candle on the table, she acts like it's no less than perfection. It makes him feel giddy like a kid again.

"What's this for, huh? Did Sarah get honor roll again?"

"No," Joel cuts in, making Sarah huff as she goes to sit down in front of her plate of spaghetti. "Just wanted to have dinner with the three of us."

"Well, I love it," She grins at him before joining Sarah at the table, setting the bottle of wine in between their empty glasses. "And I am starving, so let's eat,"

Joel takes his seat with a smile, heart racing as he and Sarah share a secretive smile across the table.

"So, how was work?"

"It was alright," She waved her hand vaguely, reaching for her glass of wine as she, Sarah, and Joel talked amongst their meal. "Mr. Carden came into the center again asking about you, telling me you've been ignoring his calls."

Joel looks sheepish, but he feigns innocence as he shoves another bite of spaghetti in his mouth, manners be damned. Around the mouthful of food, he says, "I haven't gotten any calls,"

It comes out muffled, but she and Sarah both hear it, and they share mutual looks of exasperation before laughing at Joel's poor attempt at innocence.

"Joel Miller, are you ignoring that sweet old man?"

He swallows the bite of pasta, holding his hands up defensively. "I'm busy! I've been working!"

Blue shakes her head, still smiling fondly. "You just want me to be the one that has to make excuses for you,"

"Yeah, because you're so good at it, Blue,"

"I'm good at lying to people?!"

"On my behalf," He corrects, grinning crookedly as Sarah giggles uncontrollably beside them. "And I love you for it."

She points an accusing finger at him, pursing her lips to hide her growing smile. "You're supposed to be a gentleman, Joel,"

"And I am," Joel shrugs, lifting his wine glass to his lips. "But I only have to be a gentleman to you two. That's all that matters."

"You only have to be nice to me and Blue? What about Uncle Tommy?"

Joel heaves a sigh, rolling his eyes exasperatedly at the mention of his brother. "Uncle Tommy does not need me to be a gentleman, because he's an idiot."

Blue leaned over, whispering conspiratorially in Sarah's ear. "But we love him anyways,"

Sarah nodded, watching her dad shift nervously across the table. Eyes widening, she clears her throat pointedly, looking at Blue. "Dad has something he wants to ask you,"

"Sarah!"

The woman looked between them suspiciously, narrowing her eyes. "Does he now?" Turning in her seat to look at Joel, she raises a brow. "What is it you need to ask me?"

Shooting a glare at his daughter, he let out a somewhat shaky breath. "Well, uh, you– you know that I love you, right, Blue?"

"I do know that," She hums, smiling softly despite her growing nerves. "You told me about two minutes ago."

"Yeah," He nods, wiping a hand over his mouth. "And you know– you know that Sarah loves you, too,"

Sarah nods furiously, smile playing at her lips.

"Joel, is everything alright?"

He mutters a curse, quickly pushing his chair away from the table and getting down on one knee.

"Oh, shit,"

Sarah nudges her in the arm even as tears well up in her eyes. "Language,"

"Sorry," Blue distantly mutters, her eyes bubbling with tears the longer she looks at Joel. “Joel,” 

“Just– give me a minute, alright? I, uh, I’m not the best with words, but I got some things I wanna say to you,” 

She nods silently, pressing a hand over her mouth to hold back the sob that wants to break free from her lips. 

“Every day I wake up beside you, and I think about how lucky I am that Sarah wanted to go across the street and talk to our pretty new neighbor. Without her, I wouldn’t– none of this would have happened, and I wouldn’t have the two most important girls in my life. You love me and Sarah far better than I ever could ask for, and I’ll never be able to thank you enough for it, baby. I,” 

He stops, swallowing around the lump in his throat. “I love you, Blue. I love you, and my– our daughter loves you, so will you do us both the honor of marrying me, and sticking around for a while?”

Blue laughs wetly, wiping her cheeks with a shaky hand. “Just a while?” 

“Forever is preferred,” He smiles softly. 

“Forever, then.” She nods, laying her hand over his trembling one holding the diamond ring up for her to see.

“Is that a yes?” 

“Of course it’s a yes, baby,” She laughs, practically launching herself at him and tackling him to the floor in a hug. “I’ll marry you a thousand times, if you want me to.” 

Sarah giggles, abandoning the table to join them on the floor. Blue and Joel move, easily letting her wiggle in between them, and they all share teary-eyed looks as Joel grabs Blue’s hand and slides the simple engagement ring onto her finger. 

She wiggles it against the gleam of the light before dropping her hand to her chest, clutching it tightly like she’ll lose it if she doesn’t. 

“Hey,” Sarah hums, garnering both adults’ attention. “If someone gets you a dog as a wedding present, can we keep it?”

Blue laughed, shaking her head at Sarah. “Who on earth is going to give us a dog as a wedding present, babydoll?” 

“Uncle Tommy if I ask him to,” She says it fast, and it takes a moment for her words to settle in before Joel and Blue burst into laughter, Sarah quickly joining them in their hysteria. 

Blue lays on the kitchen floor, happier than ever, wondering how moving into a little old house on a random street in Austin, Texas, had ended up being the best thing to ever happen to her. 

[hsfan94]

Dress

Y/n and Harry had an interesting friendship. They were best friends sure but people always suspected they were more. At first Harry brushed it off and laughed about it even but as time went on the jokes got old. Simply because he could no longer tell where the boundaries were anymore either and he didn’t need outsiders putting their two cents in.

The first time he felt the shift in their relationship was a little over three years ago.

Dancing around the kitchen in the middle of the night Harry realised he'd never had a friend like her before. They'd been friends for a little over two years. He couldn't remember what it was like before her and he didn't want to imagine a time without her.

They were in his New York apartment. After going out to dinner and getting chased by that stupid TMZ guy that's obsessed with him, he suggested she stay at his place since it was closer. That's how they ended up drinking three bottles of Rozé and dancing around like lunatics. Her drunkenness caused her to take a wrong step which sent them both to the floor. He landed on top of her in somewhat of a compromising pose and they both bursted out laughing.

"I've never been this drunk on wine before." She confessed. She wouldn't have told anyone something like that before but his eyes had some sort of truth serum in them.

"Oh yeah?" He could have stared at her for hours.

"That's probably because I don't usually have more than a glass at a time." She impulsively reached up to brush a stray curl out of his face. "You're a bad influence, Harry Styles."

"Where have you been all my life Y/n?"

"Waiting to be a part of it." She wasn't even sure what she meant.

He almost kissed her. If she hadn't swatted at his butt and said, "move I gotta pee," he would have crossed that line. He spent the rest of the night thinking about what it would be like if he had. What else might have happened? Maybe eventually she would even live in the very flat they were in.

He was beyond prepared for the badgering he would get when he told his friends they were doing a joint birthday celebration this year. Their birthdays are so close together and they’ve always talked about celebrating together out of convenience and this year it was happening. And sure enough the teasing had been endless.

“So, H, is it like a coming out party? Are you and the missus finally taking that step?” Jeff asked, sipping his coffee. They were having a meeting about his birthday shows when Jeff read the email invite from Y/n.

The design she went with was adorable and so perfectly her that Harry couldn’t find it in him to make changes when she asked him to edit.

“Come on, Jeff. We’ve been over this.”

“Seriously I think it’s a cute idea. I just wish you two would stop fucking around and get together.”

He received texts from Mitch, Sarah and Ben that day as well all stating something similar. Harry kind of hoped it would be that kind of party.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Y/n was nervous. She knew what she wanted for her birthday this year and she wasn’t going to let anything get in her way. She had been trying to cross the line with Harry for so long. Unfortunately for her, they had horrible timing. One of them was always taken. That night in the kitchen when he almost kissed her she had to run away because she was seeing someone. She would have had sex with Harry right there on her floor if they had kissed and she didn’t want to be a cheater. When he got cast as Jack in ‘Don’t Worry Darling’ they had been staying together and she thought for sure that would be it. Then he came home drunk one night proclaiming love for Olivia and she was proper annoyed. She hadn’t expected it to go on for two years either. So when they broke up, she wanted to give him time to process, but she was ready to go for it as soon as she thought he’d had enough time. And what better way to do that than at their birthday party?

“I don’t know about this one,” she said, looking herself up and down. The black silk gown adorning her body not quite living up to expectation.

She had decided to buy a new dress for the party for the sole purpose of it aiding in her confession.

“I think you look stunning.” Julia stood behind her looking at it from all angles.

“I don’t know Jules. I want his jaw to hit the floor.” She turned around to grab the other one she picked out.

“You say that like his jaw wouldn’t hit the floor if you showed up in sweats.” Julia rolled her eyes as she exited the changing room.

“Shut up. You know what I mean. I’m just scared” Y/n said.

“Why?”

“Because what if he’s just a big flirt. Part of me feels like if he really wanted me he would have done something about it already.” Y/n knew her and Harry were meant to be but she couldn’t figure out why it hadn’t happened yet. So she couldn’t help but worry she was wrong sometimes.

“And I think you severely overestimate men. They don’t always know what they want. Or what they need.”

Y/n opened the curtain and showed Julia the dress.

“This is the one,” they spoke in sync and then they laughed.

“Okay babes get changed and we can get lunch and game plan some more.” Julia ushered her back into the changing room.

She looked over herself in the mirror and sighed happily. It really was the one.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Harry hadn’t actually seen Y/n in a long time. They emailed and texted or called everyday, but she hadn’t been around as much lately due to conflicting schedules. At least she claimed it was her schedule. He wasn’t an idiot. He knew she did not like Olivia and to be honest he hoped it was cause she was jealous. He’d never actually admit it though. Since it had been months since a proper Y/n and Harry moment he could not contain his excitement at seeing her tonight. In fact, he was staring at the entrance to the venue with utmost concentration waiting (not so patiently) for her arrival. Y/n loved being fashionably late. So, Harry was nodding along pretending to be listening to whatever Niall was telling him waiting for his best friend to finally show up.

When Y/n walked through the door, everything stopped. Time stood still. At least Harry thought so anyway, until Niall noticed he no longer had his friend's attention.

"Ah I see. Go talk to her mate."

Without another word Harry all but stormed up to her.

"Hi," he said smiling down at her.

"Hi, Harry. How are you?" She gave him a hug and upon pulling back she stayed attached to him, looking up at him from within his embrace.

"A lot better now."

After another minute of just staring at her, he noticed Julia who had come in beside her.

"Miss Michaels, how are you this evening?"

"Great," Julia replied, "Everything looks fantastic you all did a good job."

Julia and Y/n exchanged a look that Harry couldn't decipher and then she spoke again.

"I'm going to go catch up with Niall. I'll see you lovebirds later."

She skipped away before Harry could say anything about her comment.

“Lovebirds?” He questioned Y/n who was just staring at him, dare he say starry eyed.

“What’s wrong? Is that not accurate?” Y/n was playing with fire. She wanted to really test him.

“What do you mean, lovie?” Harry’s heart started beating faster.

She didn’t want to lay it all out just yet so she leaned up to whisper in his ear, “I don’t want you like a best friend.” Then she cheekily squeezed his left ass cheek and scampered away.

Harry was left speechless watching her walk away. And damn did that dress look good from the back.

~~~~~~~~~~

Y/n wasn’t avoiding Harry per se but she was definitely putting space between them. She was currently talking to Jeff about future projects he could help her with and her and Harry kept meeting eyes. She couldn’t tell how well received her ass grab and best friend remark were and it was driving her crazy. So crazy she decided to just ask his friend.

“I hate to interrupt your thought J, but I have to ask you something.”

“No worries what’s up?” Jeff was always so understanding.

“I’ve been sending all these signals, I mean for years, and I feel like I get nothing in return and it’s driving me crazy.” She started to ramble.

“Y/n. Breathe. Get to the point.” Jeff chuckled at her frustration because he knew what the question was.

“Ok. Umm. How do I put this? Does Harry ever talk about me? Like in a romantic way?”

“You mean is he in love with you?” Jeff asked.

She nodded. He looked over at Harry only to find him shamelessly staring at Y/n. His eyes were traveling all over her body, completely ignoring Mitch and Sarah who were stood beside him, and Jeff had to end it.

“Yes he’s been madly in love with you for years, but between you and me,” he looked between Y/n and Harry, “he’s a big pussy.”

Y/n cackled. She had never heard Jeff say that word and it was fucking hilarious, especially in the context of describing her silly best friend, her love.

“Thank you. So much. Now if you’ll excuse me I’m going to go make an announcement.”

Y/n scurried over to the stage they had set up for toasts and karaoke.

“Excuse me everyone.”

The crowd went silent and all eyes were on her.

“First I want to thank you all for coming. It means so much to Harry and I. We love each and every one of you.”

She looked at Harry and saw how confused he looked.

“I just umm. I have an announcement to make and I don’t know how to form my own words for it. The irony is not lost on me as a songwriter.”

The crowd laughed.

“But I’ve tried to write songs about this in the past few days and I’ve just had major writer’s block so, if it’s okay with you, I’m going to borrow words from my friend Taylor.”

She looked at Taylor who gave her a thumbs up.

“Alright then. This song is called Dress.”

The music started playing and everyone except Harry seemed to understand immediately.

“Our secret moments, in a crowded room. They got no idea about me and you.” She made eye contact with Harry as she sang.

“Made your mark on me, a golden tattoo. All of this silence and patience. Pining and anticipation, my hands are shaking from holding back from you.”

She lifted up a shaky hand and everyone laughed including Harry who had seemed to catch on a little.

“Say my name and everything just stops. I don’t want you like a best friend. Only bought this dress so you could take it off.”

On that line she got bold. She pointed to her dress and then to him and his eyes shot wide open. Then she gestured him closer with her finger and he complied, slowly approaching the stage himself.

“Inescapable, I’m not even gonna try and if I get burned at least we were electrified.”

He was on the stage now.

“Everyone thinks that they know us but they know nothing about.” She held the mic out to him and he sang, understanding it was meant to be a mutual announcement.

“All of this silence and patience pining and anticipation my hands are shaking from holding back from you.” He lifted his hands up hovering them above her face but not touching to animate the line. Everyone laughed again.

They sang the rest of the song loosely but Y/n finished alone with the line “Only bought this dress so you could take it off.”

The music ended and the crowd cheered. Then, somebody (Y/n swears it was Jeff immediately followed by Taylor) started chanting “Kiss, Kiss, Kiss”. And they did.

Harry’s hands finally found placement on her cheeks and their lips met delicately. It was a perfect first kiss. When they broke away but he was still so close she whispered “I love you,” and he kissed her again.

“I love you too.”

A/n: I thought about writing more (maybe what they do after the party), but I also wanted to post this before it had been too long after his birthday. So I hope you like it. Comment if you want more from this universe.

[blowflyfag]

WORLD WRESTLING FEDERATION MAGAZINE :  JANUARY 1996

THE WRITER, THE OWNER, THE COWBOY, AND THE HITMAN

Athlete, Actor, Entrepreneur & Columnist, Hart Has It All Goin’ On

By Keith Elliot Greenberg

The beard itched and made Bret Hart uncomfortable in front of his fans. “I don’t know about this,” he said about the stubble on his face as a doctor checked his blood pressure in the dressing room prior to a match with Isaac Yankem D.D.S. at New York Madison Square Garden. “You sure you want to run a picture of me with the beard? I mean, people might get the wrong idea.” Bret’s main concern was that his followers would think he was trying to change his image. In reality, he was simply slated to play a bearded character in the television western Lonesome Dove. “I want to make someone clear,” he stressed. “I’m not going for a new look–I’m the same guy. Plus, my 7-year-old daughter won't kiss me as long as I have this beard. So as soon as I’m finished with Lonesome Dove, it’s coming off. I just want to be me again.”

[Bret the Writer : Bret, the artist and writer, has a weekly column that is published in his hometown paper the Calgary Sun]

That’s a difficult challenge for Hart. As one of the Federation’s most sought-after personalities, he must divide–and then subdivide–his time. THe morning of our Madison Square Garden conversation, he attended a benefit for disabled youngsters. The night before, he wrestled in Boston. His schedule for the next few days was dizzying: A morning autograph session in Washington, D.C., followed by an afternoon match in Providence, Rhode Island, On Saturday–the same day his weekly column was published in his hometown paper, the Calgary Sun, accompanied by a Hart-illustrated cartoon. Then there was Lonesome Dove on Tuesday. On Monday, Thanksgiving in his native Canada, Bret combined business with pleasure. He and his family were going to watch the Calgary Hitmen, the junior hockey team he co owns.

[Bret the Owner : Bret has been playing hockey since he could barely walk. Today he skates with pride as part owner of the Calgary Hitmen.]

Two days after our conversation in New York, Bret and I hooked up again in Calgary at the Hitman’s office. Trying to make the most of his time in his hometown, Bret brought along his sons Dallas, 11, and Blade, 5. I talked to Bret about watching wrestling as a kid with my father and grandfather and noted how a night at the matches drew the family together. The Hit Man thought about my statement and seemed a little sad. While other families were growing close, cheering him on night after night, he was often far away from his own children. 

As we chatted, a family walked into the office to purchase tickets for the day’s hockey game. As they evaluated the location of their seats, they spotted the two-time Federation Champion standing in the lobby with his sons. Each member of the family jumped back in disbelief. Bret responded with a smile and handshakes for everyone. 

Two other sports celebrities, hockey players Theoren Fleury of the Calgary Flames and Joe Salic of the Colorado Avalanche, are shareholders in the team, but the Hitman takes its name—and much of its inspiration—from the World Wrestling Federation superstar. 

“When Bret shows up at a press conference, we get double the media,” said Assistant General Manager Rusty James. “He adds an emotional element to the games. When he went on TV before we played the Red Deer Rebels and promised to run them out of town, it fired up the whole city of Calgary.” Incidentally, the Hitmen won that game 7-1.

The Hitmen are in their inaugural season in the Western Hockey League (WHL). Most of the players on this level are between 16 and 20 years old, and all have put everything else on hold for a chance to be recruited into the National Hockey League (NHL). The pressure is enormous, and the pace is hard; but in last year’s NHL draft, 55 WHL players were chosen. 

Like most Canadians, Bret has been playing hockey since he could walk. His father, legendary Calgary promoter and wrestler Stu Hart, owned a resort in Clearwater Beach, Alberta, and when the lake would freeze up, all 12 Hart children—boys and girls—would choose up sides and go at it on the ice. “If someone had told me at the time that one day I’d own a hockey team named after me, it would have seemed quite unbelievable,” the Hit Man says. 

Two years ago, Hart was chosen to drop the puck before a game between two Saskatchewan teams, the Regina Pats and the Saskatoon Blades, with the proceeds going to lupus research. “There was something about that experience I can’t explain,” Bret says. “I guess something from my childhood came out. You know, I grew up watching the WHL because we didn’t have an NHL team in Calgary, I wanted to get involved.” 

At the Corral—an arena on the Calgary Stampede fairgrounds where he once broke a record for selling wrestling programs (1,000 in one night)—Bret met up with his wife, Julie, daughters Jade, 12, and Alexandra—better known as “Beans”—7, and a niece, Annie, 10. Players were jogging around the circular building, while hockey stickers were being prepared and blades sharpened.

On the way into the Corral, Bret was stopped by a radio reporter from Regina, birthplace of Julie Hart and home of the Hitmen’s opponents, the Pats. Bret answered every question, even though his mind was on other matters. Afterward, he asked the reporter if the interview was up to par and whether they should do it again.

“Don’t worry about it,” the journalist answered, surprised by Bret’s perfectionism. “You were great.” 

Now it was time to have some fun. Hart suited up in the locker room and clowned around with such Calgary players as Mike Piersol, the 20-year-old left defenseman from Arlington Heights, Illinois–the only American on the team; Ukrainian right wing Boris Protsenko, 17; and Rod Branch, the 20-year-old goalie from Fort St. John, British Columbia. When he passed the locker of “Sugar Ray'' Schultz, 20, the Edmonton-bred right defenseman who’d later get into a scuffle on the ice, Bret joked, “He could probably teach me how to throw cheap shots.”

Some 3,800 fans turned out for the game–an incredible crowd for the WHL on a holiday afternoon–but the Pats would come out on top. Nonetheless, the Hitmen waged the same type of noble battle Bret was known for during his early days in the ring. 

Schultz actually drew a parallel between the team and the man called the “Excellence of Execution”: “We’re not a big, bruising team. We’re a finesse skating team. We care more about skill than acting like meatheads.”

[Bret the Cowboy : Luther Root, alias Bret Hart, seems to be making Curtis Wells another home as he rides high in the saddle on “Lonesome Dove.”]

This is the same ethic Bret brings to his acting career. “All athletes talk about going into movies and television,” he said later as we sat in his trailer in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, waiting for the director to call him for his scene in Lonesome Dove. “But how many are really good at it? I just didn’t want to do this for the money. I wanted to give my heart to it.” 

Last year, Lonesome Dove watchers met Bret’s character Luther Root, a mountain man in the town of Curtis Wells in Montana Territory 115 years ago. This year, Luther returns for several episodes. The discovery of copper has changed the town forever. Workers and desperadoes have flooded into Curtis Wells. The roughshod Luther Root no longer lives in the wilderness. Now he has a job riding shotgun on the stagecoach and regularly interacts with onetime bounty hunter Newt Call (played by Scott Bairstow), former Confederate Colonel Clay Mosby (Eric McCormack) and the passionate Amanda Carpenter (Tracy Scoggins). According to Lonesome Dove’s promotional material, Luther is “as quick with a joke as he is with a gun–a good man to have on your side.”

“I find my character easier to play each time,” Bret said. “Last year, he was a snarly, unfriendly trapper, but now he’s learning to have fun.” 

The show has particular significance for Bret, since part of his father’s family lived the life of the characters as pioneers in Dakota Territory. In the cowboy city of Calgary–where the yearly Stampede draws spectators from all over the world to rodeo events–young Bret read western fiction and history fantasized about meeting such legendary figures as Davey Crockett and Jesse James. 

While the Hit Man relaxed in the “circus,” a collection of trailers and motorhomes serving as the cast and crew’s headquarters, I took a tour of Curtis Wells with photographer Chris Large and assistant Matt Paler. This is one of the most extensive western towns in Tv history, with about 70 houses and buildings  stocked with a million dollars’ worth of antiques from the Old West: 25 cast iron stoves, 100 oil lamps, enough tables and chairs to seat 150 people in the saloon, 20 beds, a functioning blacksmith shop and a newspaper with a working press.  None of the buildings are heated. As it gets cold in this part of Canada in the fall, some actors have had to suck on ice cubes before scenes so their breath wasn’t visible on camera. 

Bret fit right in. He has an iron-clad memory and rarely forgets a line. Plus, his years with the Federation have made him comfortable in front of the lens. “For someone without acting experience, he’s done a great job,” Palmer said. “He’s not just an athlete getting a role because of his name. He definitely has some natural talent there.” 

Bret found out about Lonesome Dove through his friend Mitch Ackerman, a vice president at Disney. When Ackerman discovered the show was being filmed near Calgary, he put him in touch with producer Steven North. “I went for one interview,” Bret remembered. “I thought they’d say, ‘See you later,’ but three days later they called to say, ‘We wrote in a part for you.’”

On the day I visited the set, Luther Rott was engaged in a tense exchange with Sheriff Austin Peale (Paul Johansson). Although Luther is a man of few words, every sentence from Bret’s mouth had its desired effect. It was easy to understand how–after just two appearances on the show last year–Bret’s name was submitted for a Gemini Award–or Canadian Emmy–for Best Actor in a Guest Role in a Dramatic Series. 

[Bret the Hitman : Writer, owner, actor, wrestler–Bret may be the best there is, the best there was and the best there ever will be.]

“It’s great to get this kind of recognition,” he said. “It’s also tough being busy with so many different things at once, but I believe in doing the most you can while you have the opportunity. When this all ends, I want to be remembered as a guy who made as many inroads as possible.”

[vessels-for-good-intent]

Happy Birthday, Old Sport! (and other September 18th-related shenanigans)

Tags: Nick Carraway/Jay Gatsby, Nick Carraway, Jay Gatsby, Birthday, Birthday Fluff, Birthday Presents, Post-Canon, Fix-It, Jay Gatsby Wears Glasses, and nick is here for it, Jay Gatsby Lives, the picture of dorian gray - Freeform, it was nick’s birthday present to jay, Swimming, Swimming Pools, Humidity, First Kiss, Kissing, Domestic Fluff, Pet Names, Internalized Homophobia, Writing, Literal Sleeping Together, y’all they are so sweet

Summary: Nick Carraway’s Birthday, a year after the end of TGG

Notes: Nick’s birthday is not known canonically—thanks Fitz for not using a calendar, but a Monday around the end of summer 1922 is September 18th. If based on the weather reports, Nick’s birthday would have been August 17th. I choose to put Nick’s birthday in September for my own reasons (as the Gatsbin server knows) but have a silly guy calling another man gorgeous.

story is under the cut (4145 words)

Another year. Thirty-one, still a bondsman in West Egg, in a small cottage next to my only friend’s mansion.

Tuesday, September 18, 1923, a day that was turning out to be just as hot—if not hotter—than the previous year’s. However, our tempers were in great contrast to the heat, unlike 1922. The New York Tribune had stated it was likely to be in the high 90s, with humidity of around 60%.

My cousin and her husband were long gone by now, and Jordan had traveled to some golf tournament or another. Our quintet was only a duo now. I prefer it, and I believe Jay does too. Instead of trekking into the city again, I decided I would ask Jay if I could use his pool, and so I called him up. “It’s Nick,” I said, hoping that it was Jay on the other end of the line, not someone paid to take his calls.

“Happy Birthday, Nick!” were the first excited words, confirming it had been Jay. He continued, “Old sport, I was wondering if you’d like to go somewhere with me today? To celebrate your birthday?”

I laughed, feeling suddenly awkward. It went against all I’d learned, to invite myself somewhere. But Jay was a lonely man, and I hoped he’d appreciate the company.

“What is it, old sport? Don’t tell me you have work?”

“Actually, Jay, I was wondering if you’d drained the pool yet? It looks to be a scorcher.”

“It’s a splendid idea, old sport! And the pool’s not been drained yet, so you’re in luck!”

“All right, then. What time should I come over?”

“Any time that suits you best,” he said, which I had expected. He was like that, unfailingly polite.

“I’ve invited myself over, you should decide the time.”

He chuckled over the line, warm and bright and reminding me of sunlight. “Look here, Nick, you could come over right now and I wouldn’t say a word in complaint.”

“I’m serious, Jay, I don’t want to bother you.”

“You won’t be,” he insisted. “Come over, old sport. We can talk until the heat gets the best of us. Then we’ll swim, all right?”

“If you’re sure, Jay.”

“I am, Nick. See you in a few.”

I gathered my things up after he hung up the call. My bathing suit. A book, in case our conversations grew pointless before the heat. As I did, I thought about the year before. Staying for breakfast. Almost leaving before demanding Jay—who I had still considered as Gatsby then—come to the city with me. Coming home to find two dead men in his yard—the gardener who had been draining the pool had been mistaken for Jay, and George Wilson, the cuckolded husband of Myrtle.

The week we had spent, tucked away in my house while the police searched for a motive, had been one of the best and worst weeks of my life. It had finally hit upon me that I was attracted to Jay. And so I was stuck in a glorified box with only him for company. It had been almost too much at that time. Looking back on it now, it wasn't enough.

My things don’t take long to gather, and I put them in a small bag for safekeeping, walking over to Jay’s around 10:30. It’s only 78° out, according to the thermometer placed on my porch. Compared to coming home last night (around 90°), it’s positively cold.

—————

When I knock on the door, it opens to Jay’s butler.

“Mr. Gatsby is in the library, sir.”

“Thank you,” I nod to him.

As I head to the library, I wonder what Jay is doing there. We had—well, I had discovered four months ago the reason for the uncut pages–Jay doesn’t have 20/20 vision. “Up close,” he had said, “everything is blurry. Far away is fine.” I had felt a little guilty—I had just given Jay a book for his birthday—The Picture of Dorian Gray—and Jay couldn’t enjoy it!

Jay had apparently seen the look of panicked guilt crossing my face, for the next words out of his mouth were, “All right, old sport, it’s as good a reason as any to finally get myself glasses. I’m not offended by it. You didn’t know, Nick,” and I found myself nearly in tears with his easy sincerity.

By this point I had arrived at the library, so I knock on the door.

“Come in, Nick! And happy birthday!” Jay calls.

I entered the room, finding Jay by the dark blond hair peeking over an armchair. His head is down and he’s holding a book in his hands. It’s open.

“Jay?” I ask.

His head whips around, and I see the edge of frames on his face, as well as the slight upward tilt of his lips.

“Hello, old sport! It’s good to see you.” Jay lays back in his chair, tilting his neck up to look at me—glasses. Holy shit. His glasses.

Whether it was done purposefully or not, they take me by surprise. I can see Jay’s face perfectly from where he’s standing.

He’s gorgeous. Well, he’s gorgeous already, but the way the frames enhance his features in a way I can’t describe. His hair, fluffy without its typical gel, only helps.

Jay sits up suddenly, pushing himself eagerly out of his chair. I watch as he stretches, wincing at the cracking noises.

“Sorry, old sport. I know you don’t like that noise.”

“That’s okay. You sounded pretty stiff—how long have you been sitting there?”

“Well, old sport,” Jay says, taking the cheaters off his face and waving them at me, “These came this morning. I remembered your gift and have been reading it since.”

“How do you like it, Jay?”

He thought a little, and then answered, “It doesn’t make much sense to me yet. But I believe it will as the book goes on.”

“What scene are you at now?” I asked curiously.

Jay grabbed the light green book I remembered from a few months ago, opening it to a bookmarked page. “Found it!” he mumbled. “Dorian has just wished for his own eternal youth and mourned that the painting will never change.”

“I’ve caught you at a dramatic part, then. If you’d like, I’d be happy to let you read.” I sincerely hoped otherwise, but I’d let Jay read, even as much as I’d like to talk with him.

“Nonsense, old sport, it’s your birthday! I can tell you what’s gone on in my life since your last visit,” he paused, “Unless you’d like to read, Nick? It’s your birthday after all. What would you like to do?”

“Let’s talk, Jay. How do you like reading now?”

He laughed, smiling, from where he now sat on the arm of his chair. “Well, old sport, you knew I liked to read before my sight gave, and I simply didn’t have time to get fitted. Did you know they’re—magnifiers especially—called cheaters? I think it’s because of the fact that it’s not my natural vision, but rather a correction to it.”

Jay was rambling at this point, but it’s always nice to listen to—especially now that it’s not about my cousin. “You felt guilty about giving me that book, right Nick? Well, I’m glad you did. I can read what I want again.”

“I’m glad, Jay. They make your eyes stand out.” The last bit had slipped out, but I appreciatively watched Jay’s face flush. Awkwardly checking the time, I found it was 11:15. We had spent a long time talking.

Jay interrupted my thoughts to offer lunch.

“That’d be great, Jay. Do you have anything cold?”

“How do you feel about macaroni salad, old sport?”

“All right,” I agreed. Blueberries?

We went downstairs shortly after, realizing the walls were becoming damp with humidity, and the library uncomfortably hot.

Jay groaned. “I should have closed the windows. It’s going to be miserable in here.”

“Do it now,” I suggested.

“Come with me, then.”

As we trudged up the stairs to the highest level of his mansion (eight, with this tower), we both began to breathe heavily, a combination of over exertion and the heat.

At one point, we paused at the top of the stairs, and Jay leaned—and then slid heavily down the wall.

“Every year,” he grumbles, “I forget how damned hot New York can be.”

“I—yeah,” I break off awkwardly, realizing I had been about to make some comment about the previous year’s events. “Anyway, the hottest day of the year has been my birthday for two years. It’s never been this bad this late in Minnesota.”

We drift up the next stairwell, both of us lost in thought.

“I’m sorry, old sport,” says Jay, suddenly. “This probably wasn’t how you wanted to spend your birthday.”

“Jay,” I tell him, smiling and pausing til he looks at me, “I don’t mind. I like having your company, you know.”

I watched as the words registered and he blushed. Then he cursed. I spun around in surprise, only to find him holding the cheaters away from his face. He’s gorgeous, with or without.

“What happened?” I ask, curiously.

“It got—so humid—that my glasses fogged!” he pants.

Curiously, I feel the wall, face twitching in disgust as my hand comes away damp.

“That’s disgusting. Please, let’s close these windows.”

Jay laughs, sudden, bright, unexpected. “Or I could have someone else do it and we can go eat lunch.”

“We just got up here,” I protest, half hearted. “But sure, let’s do that. I don’t even know how many windows there are in this place.”

“Do you want me to count?” Jay jokes, and I smiled. He’s gorgeous, even in his heat-flushed state. I was no match for him, dark hair hanging lank over my forehead, my torso impossibly sweaty. We hadn’t even made it outside yet, and the air felt like you could grab a handful of it.

“You’re not wrong about the humidity,” Jay’s voice broke through my thoughts, “But you look more than fine, Nick.”

I realized belatedly I’d spoken aloud. “Christ, Jay, I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be,” he insists. “Let’s go have some lunch.”

The walk back down is easier, although Jay nearly slips down a few stairs.

“What else did you have made for lunch, Jay?” I ask, curious.

“I had some fruit brought—strawberries and all that.”

“Blueberries?” I ask. “If you got blueberries—God, Jay, I’ll—“ I stop there, certain I would embarrass myself if I continued. “I’ll be very happy,” I finish lamely.

To my surprise, Jay was blushing at my elbow, smiling. “Yes, old sport, I do know of your love for blueberries. Don’t worry.”

Lunch was then served. We ate quickly with little conversation other than the weather and our now joint wish to swim. Jay thanked me for pushing him to read again, saying, “I had forgotten how relaxing it is. It’s quite nice to disappear into a book for an hour.”

I smile. “That’s why I like it. Although it usually occupies me for longer than an hour.”

“Have you written anything lately, Nick? I know you used to.”

“I miss it, but no, Jay, I haven’t recently. Today’s my first day off since the Fourth of July.”

“I’ll have to take you on more breaks, then,” Jay mutters, and I wasn’t quite sure whether he had intended for me to hear it, so I tried desperately not to react—though I could feel a blush rising on my face.

He continued, louder this time. “You’re flushed, old sport. Has the heat gotten to you?”

“A swim would be nice,” I agreed, ignoring his statement.

“Of course,” Jay said. I got the idea that he had wanted to say something different, but I said nothing. We got up from the table in an awkward silence and walked to the library—I had dropped my bag there—in the same fashion.

“Why, old sport, I haven’t even given you a birthday gift yet!” Jay exclaims.

“That’s all right, Jay,” I told him, suddenly nervous for whatever he had planned. “Perhaps after our swim?”

Jay smiles in agreement, leading me to a room near his. “Change here, and I’ll meet you shortly.”

When I enter the room, the first thing I notice is the mirror. Or rather, what the mirror shows: my hair, waves tighter by way of the humidity, and flyaways nearly tripled. Glancing around for a hair brush, I sigh when there’s not immediately one in view. Something to ask Jay for then—Jay didn’t say anything. He had to be aware of it. Why didn’t he say anything?

Exiting the room, I find Jay already dressed and waiting. He’s absolutely gorgeous, and I find myself staring. I can’t compare, and I lock my arms around my chest in sudden discomfort.

“All right, Nick?” he asks.

“Fine. Do you have a brush I could borrow? My hair, you see,” I gesture towards it, watching his eyes flick up.

“Your hair’s great, old sport. And besides, we’re just about to swim!” I blush heavily at his first words, more so when he follows them up with a smile. His bathing suit doesn’t help matters, clinging to him like that. He’s so pretty.

“C’mon, old sport,” he cries, polished accent slipping away slowly. We walk to the pool. It’s even warmer and more humid outside, and I watch as Jay immediately jumps in, graceful. I find my eyes catching on the gentle lines of his body.

“Well,” I call, “How is it?”

“‘S nice! C’mon, jump in!”

“I don’t want to accidentally hit you, Jay.” He pouts, then flips to a backstroke, away from the pool’s edge.

“How ‘bout now, old sport?” his tone teasing. I laugh, sitting at the lip of the pool, water cool on my legs. Jay frowns. “Don’t tell me you aren’t jumping in, Nick?”

“I’d rather not, Jay. I prefer to get used to the water, rather than all at once.” Then he smiles, and I am again struck silent by the beauty of it.

“I’d just take the chance. Especially with weather like this.” He swims over suddenly, grabbing hold of my hands. “C’mon, old sport. Give it a chance,” and with that I let myself be pulled into the water.

“Oh!” I exclaim once I break the surface—Jay, in his excitement, had pulled me under as well as in.

“I’m sorry, Nick.”

“It’s just fine, Jay. Nice and cool,” I assure him.

Apparently realizing that our conversation had drug to a halt, Jay smiled, a teasing glimmer in his eyes. “So, old sport. Your birthday gift.”

“What is it?” I demand, a little excited. Last year, I had forgotten all about it. After Jay found out, he had apologized profusely and promised a much better celebration this year.

He turns that bright smile on me, and I feel my blush come back. “A surprise.”

“Come now, Jay, tell me!”

“I don’t think I will,” he said, and disappeared under the water. He surfaces next to me, saying, “You’ll see!” and I flush at his proximity. “See, you’ll love it!”

“What do you mean, Jay?” but he only smiles.

“Come swim, Nick,” he invites.

Instead of swimming away from him, I cup my hand, driving it quickly through the water towards Jay. It hits him in the face, and I see him flash through shock before settling on hilarity.

Jay laughs, big and bright, calling out a jokingly betrayed-sounding, “Nick—” before his hand mirrors mine, and I find myself dripping with water. I retaliate, lunging through the water at him, hoping to push a large wave at his chest. It works—but I also find myself with my hands pressed against Jay’s chest.

We both blush, and I hurriedly remove my hands from my friend’s chest. “I’m sorry,” I quickly apologize.

Jay’s mouth opens and closes, once, twice, before his voice finally comes, choked and low. “Why, old sport, I’d hoped to give you your gift inside. But if you’re going to touch me like that, well. I’ll have to give it to you here.”

“Jay—“ I broke out, “I—what in hell are you planning?”

“You’ll see, sweetheart,” he almost purrs, and I shiver.

We swam without talking for a few minutes more before I became too distracted to swim and instead stood in the shallows watching Jay’s graceful turns. I should have been aware of Jay’s repetitions changing—he had swum around behind me, and latched his hands around my torso. “Jay! You—you surprised me!” I could feel the blush rising on my face.

“Really?” he teased, “And yet you paid so much attention to me.”

My blush increased tenfold, and Jay laughed, withdrawing his arms from me–he had told me later he had done this to watch my skin turn pink–but in that moment I lost my footing, and managed to steady myself—using Jay’s chest.

He gripped my arms from behind, attempting to help. “Don’t fall, old sport. Even if it is f—into me.”

I turned around to face Jay, and to my surprise I found him about as red-faced as I was. Still gorgeous, perhaps even more now. Suddenly, the last vestiges of a fear I had been trying to rid myself of over the past year left me, and I found myself grasping Jay’s hips through the thin material of his bathing suit. His head snapped up, and when he spoke it was almost too quiet to hear.

“Sw—Nick, I’m going to do something very rash if you don’t let go,” he warns.

“Do it, then,” I challenge. “I don’t mind.”

“I did warn you,” Jay breathes, before I feel his hands clasp at my neck, pulling me down to him.

Our eyes met for a split second before we were kissing for all our worth. When we separated—for air, although I thought at that second that I would not mind being kissed to death, and by Jay no less—we stayed close. “That’s—that was your birthday present, Nick. Although I’d like to kiss you again, if you’d like.”

Jay had caught his breath faster than I had, and when I did, I agreed, “I’d like that. This is the best birthday present I’ve had in years.”

“And way better than the mess you had to deal with last year, sweetheart.”

I blushed warmly at him. “Certainly,” before drawing him up again to my lips.

—————

We had gotten dressed again, though in one room this time, stealing glances and pretending at shame when caught by the other. When Jay moved to put gel in his hair, I grabbed his wrist. “You didn’t earlier, and your hair’s great, Jay,” I parroted back to him the words I had heard an hour or so previous.

“All right, Nick. I won’t. But you shouldn’t either,” he said, smiling at me.

“Fine,” I agreed, gazing at that brilliant smile, before remembering I was able to kiss him now. I moved to do so.

“Hi,” Jay said when I stopped.

I smile, warm from the heat but also the comforting feeling of being cared for. “Like your smile, it’s gorgeous—you’re gorgeous, Jay Gatsby.”

“You’re the gorgeous one in my opinion,” Jay said. “Your hair is soft, your eyes are such a pretty hazel, and your face is perfect.” He reached for my face, carefully trailing his fingers over my eyebrows and down my cheeks.

“No, no. It’s you who’s gorgeous, Jay. Your hair and your eyes fit together so perfectly—dark blond hair and deep blue eyes. I find myself lost in your eyes so often, Jay, you wouldn’t believe it. Don’t get me started on how pretty your lips are, I won’t stop talking for hours.”

“I’d let you,” Jay assured me. “But I’d kiss you every time you paused.”

We found ourselves in the library again, Jay’s glasses gloriously returned to his face, The Picture of Dorian Gray open in his hands. I had pulled my book out of the bag I had brought, but found myself staring at Jay more than reading. He was exquisite in every situation, a lip quirked as he read about Dorian’s misadventures in late 19th century London.

He glanced up. “You’re staring, sweetheart.”

“In my defense, you’re very pretty,” and I watched in satisfaction as he flushed pink.

“If you’re not going to read, come sit with me,” Jay said, and I slid over, putting an arm around his shoulders and leaning in to read. Reading the page he was on, I found Lord Henry talking to his uncle about who Dorian Gray was, before Jay turned his head and pecked my cheek.

“Sometimes I wonder if you had a motive for getting me this book.”

“Oh?” It was true, of course. The Picture of Dorian Gray had been a favorite of mine, especially after finding out certain details about Mr. Wilde.

“Yes,” Jay said, “I think you did. You see, Lord Henry and Basil both think that Dorian is very good looking. Did Wilde intend it to come across like this?”

“He did. But it caused him a lot of trouble, seeing where he ended up.”

“What happened to him, Nick?” Jay asked, curious.

“Mr. Wilde was placed on trial, because the book contained references to people like us. He was convicted, spent some time in an English prison, moved to France, and died a short while later.”

“Was he like us?”

I nod, “He was. The man stopped communicating with him after the allegations were formed, and he went on to marry.”

Jay leaned into me, his cheek on my shoulder, and said, “For what it’s worth, I’m sorry for Mr. Wilde. I wouldn’t leave you, Nick. Ever. “

“It won’t come to that, Jay. We’re careful men.”

“Yes,” Jay agreed, and said no more.

“Actually, Jay, could I have some paper?” He beamed, kissed me, and walked over to a drawer.

“You going to write, sweetheart?”

“I got inspired,” I told him simply, quirking an eyebrow.

He played along. “By who? Do tell, Nick?”

I laughed and walked over to him, grabbing his hand to kiss it. “You, Jay.”

“You’re sweet,” he said, handing me a few sheets of paper and a pencil.

“Thank you,” I said, and led him back to the couch. This time, he lay down with his head on my chest. Not the most comfortable position for him to read—or me to write, but it was Jay. Jay, my darling, handsome man.

He fell asleep soon after, and I carefully reached for his glasses and book, marking his place. The cheaters went on the table next to me, and under them I placed the sheets of paper, which had ended up as just a ramble about Jay’s attributes.

I lost myself to sleep, hand curled around his chest. Jay had given me the only thing I needed.