#kk arnold

[akaz2908]

[thatswhatisaidd]

LMAOOOO, youtube funny sometimes 😂😂

[prettygirl-gabi]

Title: Cleaning Up

Pairing: Paige Bueckers x Reader

Word Count: ~2.5k

Genre: Angst, Fluff, Comfort

POV: First-Person

Summary: cleaning isn’t always better than asking for help.

this is based off my current life experiences rn ngl….

I don’t know when it started. Maybe a few days ago, maybe weeks. Time blurs when I’m like this, stretching out like a long, dark tunnel where I can’t see the light at the end. All I know is that at some point, I stopped making my bed. Then, I stopped doing laundry. Then, dishes piled up, clothes scattered across the floor, and my desk became a mess of unopened textbooks and half-empty water bottles.

Now, my dorm room is a disaster zone.

I tell myself it’s not that bad. I just need to clean up a little, and everything will feel normal again. I just need a reset.

That’s what I tell Paige when she calls me, her voice light but laced with something knowing.

“You comin’ to team dinner, baby?” she asks, and I picture her leaning against her dorm wall, probably already dressed in one of her hoodies and sweats.

I glance at my room—clothes everywhere, my bedsheets half on the mattress, my desk cluttered with God knows what. My chest tightens. “I’m gonna sit this one out. Gotta clean.”

A pause. Then, “You sure? You’ve been missing a lot lately.”

I press my lips together. It’s not that I don’t want to see her or the team. I just can’t. Not when my head feels like it’s drowning, and my room is proof that I’m sinking.

“Yeah,” I say, trying to sound casual. “I just need to clean up a little. I’ll see you tomorrow, okay?”

Another pause. A longer one.

“…Okay.” Paige doesn’t sound convinced, but she doesn’t push. She never does.

I hang up before she can say anything else and toss my phone onto my bed.

The thing about cleaning when I’m like this is that it’s less about making things tidy and more about trying to scrub the weight off my chest. I pick up a shirt, toss it into the hamper. Grab a water bottle, throw it in the trash. Each action is small, but the mess is overwhelming, and no matter how much I do, it never feels like enough.

I don’t know how long I’ve been at it when there’s a knock at my door.

I freeze.

No one ever comes by unannounced.

I consider ignoring it, pretending I’m asleep, but then I hear voices—multiple voices.

“C’mon, we know you’re in there!” KK’s voice.

“You better open this door before I do it myself,” Ice adds.

I squeeze my eyes shut. Of course, it’s them.

I hesitate, debating whether to just pretend I’m not here, but then Paige speaks. “Baby, open up. Please.”

Something in my chest cracks.

With a sigh, I drag myself to the door and unlock it. The second I do, they push inside like a wave. KK, Ice, Aubrey, Azzi, and, of course, Paige, standing in the middle of them with a look that’s a mix of concern and quiet understanding.

They don’t say anything at first. Their eyes sweep over my room, taking in the disaster. I wait for the judgment, for the comments about how gross it is, but they never come.

Instead, KK claps her hands. “Alright, let’s get to work.”

I blink. “What?”

Azzi moves past me, already gathering my laundry. “You sort your clothes or just throw ‘em all together?”

“Uh… just throw them together?”

“Cool.” She grabs my hamper and heads for the door like she’s done this a million times.

Ice starts picking up the trash, Aubrey is straightening my bed, and KK is gathering the mess on my desk. It’s like they planned this.

Paige doesn’t move at first. She just looks at me.

“Why are y’all doing this?” I ask, my voice quiet.

Paige finally steps closer, placing a hand on my cheek, her thumb brushing gently over my skin. “Because we know what this means for you,” she murmurs.

I swallow hard.

“We’ve known for a while,” Aubrey adds, smoothing out my blankets. “You always disappear when your room gets bad.”

“You call it ‘cleaning,’ but really, it’s you spiraling,” Ice says, not unkindly. “So, we figured we’d help.”

My throat tightens. I look at Paige, who’s still watching me with those soft blue eyes, and something in me breaks. I didn’t think anyone noticed. I didn’t think anyone cared.

I turn away quickly, blinking back tears.

“You don’t have to do this,” I say, my voice shaky.

“Yeah, we do,” Paige says. “Because we love you.”

The words hit me harder than they should. I press my lips together, trying to hold it together, but then Paige wraps her arms around me from behind, pressing her forehead against my shoulder.

“You don’t have to do everything alone,” she whispers.

And that’s it. The dam breaks.

I turn in her arms, burying my face in her hoodie, and she holds me like she’s been waiting for me to let go. My hands clutch at her, and I shake, silent sobs wracking through me.

The room is quiet except for the sounds of them moving around, cleaning up the pieces of my mess. Of me.

And for the first time in weeks, I don’t feel so alone.

By the time they’re done, my room looks… normal. The bed is made, the trash is gone, my clothes are either folded or being washed. It doesn’t feel suffocating anymore.

I sit on my bed, exhausted but lighter. Paige sits beside me, threading her fingers through mine.

“We’re always here,” she says softly.

I nod, squeezing her hand.

“Next time, just tell us,” KK says, sitting on the floor with a grin. “Or don’t. Either way, we’re coming.”

I laugh—a real laugh—for the first time in what feels like forever.

“Y’all are the worst,” I mutter, but it’s filled with affection.

Paige leans over, pressing a kiss to my temple. “Nah. We’re just your people.”

And maybe, just maybe, that’s enough to keep me from drowning.

---

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                 -Thank You For Reading!🩵🩶

                             -prettygirl-gabi🎀✨️

[vicsstufff]

I desperately need more Paige x ballerina reader😫😫🙏

p. bueckers x ballerina! reader moodboard ⋆˙⟡

authors note: i loveee making this. i have some blurbs chillin in my drafts and i will finish them once school becomes calmer

remember what i said about the willis? imagine her face when u get a role as one or just randomly do variations of them in front of her

drives u to any show, event or practice!

helps u choose new ballet shoes and practice outfits

she goes “that looks easy.” when she sees u on pointe

did once tried to do pointe (she broke one nail, her fingers cracked badly, definitely doesn’t have any ballet skills, her fingers were sore when she walked)

doesn’t like when ur dance instructor/teacher gets a little touchy when correcting u

also when the role u play has to do with u dancing with a guy

“i can pick you up like him, you don’t need him.”

don’t even try to explain her even basic stuff, she won’t understand

insist on u adding more protection to your feet

tries on your costumes and makeup

once she discovers arabian dance part on the nutcracker

she is obsessed!!!!!

prays silently when u audition for the nutcracker (hoping u get the arabian princess)

silently likes more calmer ballet shows then energetic ones

listens regularly to swan lake by tchaikovsky

knows the full story behind the nutcracker and swan lake

gives u flowers after a performance + any fast food too

drags all the team to see u perform

shows geno and cd videos of u dancing

i feel like cd would actually go with paige to see u perform

[authentic-girl03]

Kk with the bonnet toss, Ice just being ice, and Sarah being nonchalant as always 👏🏽🤣

[paxaz535]

Northwood Ends

pazzi (+team) x black!oc (+team)

note: this is my first attempt at writing a fiction topic with non fiction people so it might not be realistic in some ways! the whole team won’t be in this story, only some of them. I’ll see where this goes and figure out if i want to continue it or not.

————

It was a calm evening at Michigan University. Carmen was in the college gym getting some shots in. She was going to go out with a few teammates later on before their big day. Carmen was excited to play but also annoyed because they were playing UConn. The school Paige Bueckers goes to. They’ve been rivals ever since their freshman year of college. 

Carmen wasn’t sure how it exactly happened, but she knew that the UConn Women’s basketball team and the Michigan University women’s basketball team did not mess with each other.

~

Carmen was at a bar with some teammates, having a nice time. They had a big day tomorrow but wanted to let loose a bit. Carmen turned and noticed the look on Emani’s face. Confused, she asked, “What’s wrong?” Emani continued to look over at the door, “Look who just arrived.” Carmen turned around and saw Paige. “Oh, you’ve gotta be kidding.” She had the biggest smirk on her face when she and her team spotted Carmen. “Here they come.” Nyla spoke. Carmen groaned and rolled her eyes. 

“Carmen, isn’t it nice to see you?” She had her arms crossed, a slight glare. Carmen noticed Azzi, Nika, Ice, and Kk also glaring. “Yeah, whatever, Bueckers. You and your little team ready to lose?” A slight smirk on her face. “Why would we if we’re the best team out there?” Kk spoke. Mia scoffed, “Persuade me.” Nika scoffed, rolling her eyes. “Have you seen me play? I make 20 assists a game.” Paige smirked at her teammate. 

“Wow, Nika has talent,” Emani spoke sarcastically as she crossed her arms, “Call us when you can actually shoot a ball or two.” Nika took a step, trying to get into the girl’s face, but Kk held her back. “You watch your mouth.” Ice spoke as she nodded towards Emani. Emani put her hands up in surrender, a smirk on her face.

“What? Can’t take a little trash talk? Come on, I thought you guys were tougher than that.” Carmen said as she looked at the five opponents. “Says you, Carmen. Your little feelings get hurt every time I make a three on you.” Azzi exclaimed as she looked the girl up and down.

Carmen chuckled, “I couldn’t give a fuck about a three you make, fudd. We all know what-“ Carmen was cut off by a loud thud that came from the other side of the bar. The rest of the girls followed her look, noticing the bar getting quiet. “The fuck?” Nyla muttered as she watched the scene.

“Hey, are you okay?” A girl asked as she crouched down by the guy lying on the ground. The guy didn’t reply to her after a hot second. “Hellooo, are you g-“ Suddenly, he popped up and looked around, his sight landing on the girl in front of him. “Dude, a-” She got cut off by her scream, the guy grabbed onto her arms and sank his teeth into her neck. “Get him off of me!” The bar erupted in chaos, some backing away, others still standing in shock.

It was safe to say that the ten basketball players all had the same expression on their faces. “I know he did not just bite that girl in her neck?” Kk spoke out of shock. Carmen was confused, her eyes not leaving the sight. “We need to go! Like now.” Emani rushed as she quickly got up. Carmen was still standing there, Nyla had to pull her out of her trance.

After everyone made it outside, Mia took a deep breath. “Okay, what the hell was that?!” Carmen still slightly confused, looked inside the window to now see two people running around trying to bite everyone. It must be contagious.

“Like hell we know!” Nika bit back as she looked at the redhead. Mia rolled her eyes, scoffing in the process. “She’s right. How would we know?” Paige spoke. Carmen looked back at the girls, an alarmed expression on her face. “I think it was something in his drink.”

Everyone turned towards her. “I noticed his glass was empty after he fell.” Paige scoffed, amused at this situation. “Why should we believe you?” Their attention was drawn to glass shattering. A person… or whatever it was came out, looking for something. Their face looked swollen and it didn’t look like a human in the face. The thing spotted a person lying on the ground, yelling for help but it was too late.

It got to the girl and bit her leg, the girl screaming in pain. Carmen looked back at Paige, “Does that make you believe me now?” Paige just rolled her arms, grossed out and upset that Carmen was indeed right.

“This isn’t possible.” Ice spoke out of fright as she looked around. Nyla raised her eyebrows, “It looks pretty possible to me.” she spoke back smartly, Ice groaned and waved her off. “Shut up, Johnson.” Carmen was thinking about where everyone could go and then she finally remembered.

“I know somewhere we can go but it’s a bit of a run.” The girl told everyone. Mia was quick to nod, “We’re all athletes. We can run a few miles. Let’s just get the fuck out of here.” Carmen nodded, immediately starting to go towards the destination when she noticed all five UConn stars standing still. “Hello?”

“You’ve got life fucked if you think we’re following you.” Paige spoke as she stood. Carmen groaned, she was getting sick of the back and forth thing. “Look, cry all you want but I recommend following me. Where I’m going has food, weapons and places to sleep. So unless you wanna die out here like a little bitch, I suggest you toughen up and follow me.” Carmen finalized and turned back around. Paige groaned, looking at her teammates before unfortunately following the Michigan team.

-

It had been at least 10 minutes, and the girls were now walking. They stopped running like 8 minutes ago. “Holy fuck. Where is this place you so-called claim to have?” Nika complained as she continued to follow. Carmen looked at the girl before shaking her head. “Stop complaining. We’re almost there.” Carmen noticed the familiar sidewalk that led up to the destination and smiled. She always spent her summers here.

After a few more steps, Carmen stopped right in front of the safe house. “Holy shit.” Emani cursed as she noticed the house. “What is this, some kind of safe house?” Paige asked as she crossed her arms. Carmen just nodded, walking towards the entrance. “This should keep us good for a while. At least until everything cools down.”

The ten young women walked inside, being met with the smell of cinnamon and vanilla. Her grandma always loved the two, so she made sure to keep the house smelling like them all the time. “It smells good.” Carmen just nodded, locking the door behind them. “Okay. We all saw what happened back there.”

Everyone just nodded, still a bit shocked. Azzi then spoke up, knowing that the none of them knew what was going on at this moment. “Let’s turn on the news. Keep us updated.” Carmen nodded, going into the couch arm rest to get the remote. Everyone piled up in the living room, UConn on one side, Michigan on the other. You’d think everyone hated each other guts and it was some type of war going on, which technically, they do hate each other guts but still.

Carmen turned to the news. A lady stood out in front the bar they just recently ran from, looking a bit too close due to the fact that’s where everything transpired.

“It appears that the outbreak has occurred right here at the Vile Bar right on Northwood street in Michigan. One moment, a male supposedly collapsed out of no where and the next, a woman has gotten bitten.”

Carmen continued to watch, knowing that they were all there when it happened. Then, the tv had cut to the news reporters that sit down in the studio.

h

The 20 pairs of eyes never left the screen, invested in what was being said. This was obviously a very serious matter and it was only going to get worse.

“Never in a million years would we have thought this would happen. you’ve probably seen it in video games or movies but this is real life. We suggest you stay inside and stay safe, make sure to tell your loved ones you love them and hope for the best. Goodluck.” Carmen turned the tv off, not quite satisfied with what was told, she expected more information. not some fuck ass ‘goodluck.’

“Goodluck? The fuck is a ‘goodluck’ gonna do for us?” Ice spoke as she looked at everyone. “Don’t know. but we’re safe so there’s nothing to worry about.” Carmen spoke as she stood, walking to the kitchen. Paige, still confused on certain things, began to question the girl.

“How is this gonna work? I mean, say we do run out of things. It’s ten of us!” Carmen opened her pantry to see it luckily stocked and filled with food and treats. She checked every place that could possibly have food and was met with satisfaction. “Don’t worry about food. We’ve got plenty.”

“Okay, fantastic but what about everything else? Electricity? The weapons? Where are we all gonna sleep?” Ice asked as she stood. Carmen turned around to be met with all eyes on her. She just sighed, “There’s 2 bedrooms up here and a basement. If you want to include the living room as a spot to sleep then so be it. I told you guys we’re gonna be fine.”

“I think we should stay in the basement. Safest place in the house.” Mia said as she looked at everyone. Nika scoffed, “are you dumb? why would we go to the basement?” Mia snapped her head towards the brunette. “Why wouldn’t we, Nika?” Mia then stood up, not liking the way the girl was talking to her.

“What? and let something break in while we’re all down there? you gonna come up and kill it?” Nika sassed as she crossed her arms. Mia glared at the girl, “If I have to then yea. We all know you’re not capable of doing it.” Nika mugged her. “The fuck is that supposed to mean?” She took a step closer to Mia, making them face to face.

Mia scoffed, “Exactly what I said. You’re a pussy.” Nika shoved the girl, making her stumble into Emani. Mia held her arms up in surrender, a smirk on her face. “Cut it out!” Carmen yelled from the kitchen, making everyone turn to her. “Whatever we have between us has to be put to the side. There’s people out there dying and running around trying to bite people in their fucking necks!”

Nika huffed, looking at Mia before looking back at Carmen. “I understand we all hate each other but us going back and forth like this ain’t doing anyone any favors.” Paige sighed, looking at everyone. “Shes right. As much as we all hate each other, we gotta grow up. Especially if we’re all gonna be with each for who knows how long.”

Carmen gave the blonde a look of gratitude, appreciative of the fact that the girl was able to compromise. It was quiet for a moment before a soft voice spoke. “What if some people stay up here and the rest downstairs?” Everyone looked at Emma.

“Are you guys sure you wanna be separated?” Emani asked as she laid on Nyla. “I mean… it’s not the smartest move but if everyone is comfortable, then why not?” Emma reasoned as she stood next to Carmen. The braided hair girl nodded, not opposed to the idea.

“Aright, it’s settled. Me and my girls will stay downstairs, Paige, you and your team can stay up here.” Carmen spoke. Paige put her hand up, “hold up. what if we wanted to stay downstairs?” Carmen looked at the blonde. “Nika just had a whole tantrum about not wanting to go downstairs. I think that says enough.”

Nika flipped the girl off, rolling her eyes and flopping on the couch. Emma and Emani were the first ones to go down there, turning on the light to see a cozy basement. It had a couch, a tv and a bathroom. it was almost like an extra bedroom.

“is anyone hungry? thirsty?” Carmen asked as she walked into the kitchen. “I’ll take a water.” Azzi said as she sat next to ice on the couch. “yea me too.” Carmen just grabbed 7 water bottles and set them on the counter. “Where’s your bathroom?” Kk asked Carmen.

Carmen nodded towards the hallway, “Two doors down to your right.” Kk nodded and turned the hallway light on since it was dark. She found the bathroom and went inside. “Never did I once think I would be staying with the opps.” Nika spoke as she stared into space. “you know, we’re not the worst people in the world.” Mia stated as she looked at the brunette.

Nika sighed and looked over at the girl. “You’re gonna have to prove that, sweetheart.” Mia just shrugged, the nickname not bothering her. Azzi went next to paige and sat down. She leaned her head against the blonde and wrapped her hands around her arm. Paige let her, pulling the curly head closer. Carmen watched the whole interaction, only looking away when the two noticed her eyes on them.

Paige and Azzi looked at each other before looking back at Carmen. Carmen looked at everything but them, not wanting to make things awkward. She then remembered about the weapons in the back office. She shot up off the counter, looking for the keys in the drawers.

Kk came out the bathroom, going right next to Ice. “What are you looking for?” Nyla asked as she played with her hair. Carmen didn’t answer right away, focusing on the task ahead of her. “Keys.” She simply replied. “For what?” Mia pressed.

Carmen found the keys in the drawer under the dish rack and looked at the girls in front of her. “Weapons.” She closed the drawer and walked towards the back. “Oh, fuck yea.” Nyla commented as she stood. Carmen heard pairs of footsteps behind her, not bothering to tell them to stay where they are.

She unlocked the office and turned the light on. It looked like a regular working office but there was a door right behind the working desk. Carmen nodded, walking towards it and unlocking that door as well. When she opened it, two large boxes were inside. she pulled one out, opening it and looking inside. Everyone else looked inside too, looking at all the weapons inside the box.

“How does one acquire so many weapons?” Carmen just shook her head, “My grandparents are lowkey crazy..” She hopes they’re doing okay, she noted to contact her family. “This should be enough for everyone. Nyla, can you go get Emma and Emani?” Carmen asked as she grabbed the desk chair and pulled it up to the box. She sat down on the chair, and looked at everyone. Just analyzing.

“Wait, are we all getting assigned our own weapons?” Nika asked, she was excited but didn’t show it. Carmen nodded, still looking at everyone. “Yall are responsible for these things, alright? please only use them when necessary.” The three girls came back into the room, now joining the circle the girls has created. “Can I get a gun?”

Carmen looked at Nyla, a laugh escaping her lips. “Hell no.” Nyla just scoffed and shook her head. The girl was known for being clumsy, so Carmen would be stupid to give her a gun.

-

“Has anyone got a hold of the rest of the team?” Paige asked as she looked at her phone. She was met with disagreements around the room, her heart dropping. “My phone literally just died.” Ice spoke as she leaned against the couch. Azzi looked at paige, “I texted but no one has responded.” Paige just nodded, turning her phone off to not stress herself even more.

Carmen came upstairs because Emani wanted some chips, and since the girl loved her so much, she decided to get them for her. “Yall good?” Carmen asked as she noticed everyone was slightly off. Paige nodded, “Hey, you got in touch with any of your people?”

Carmen looked at her, “Only my grandparents. i haven’t heard from my teammates though.” Paige nodded, “us either.” Carmen noticed how close her and azzi were but ignored it. She then noticed how everyone looked slightly uncomfortable. She looked down at her clothes and realized why.

“Tell you what. Tomorrow’ll be a new day. There’s a mall right up the street from here, we can all go get some clothes. I know you guys are uncomfortable.” Paige just nodded, a small smile on her face. “Yea, that’ll be nice.” Carmen nodded, grabbing the chips before turning off the light.

“Goodnight, uconn.” She teased. Paige chuckled, “night, michigan.” Carmen just grinned and closed the door, going back to her team. When she got down there, she saw Emma and Nyla sleep. “What were yall talking about?” Mia asked as Carmen got back onto the couch. Carmen told them what happened and went to bed, they all had a day to look forward to tomorrow.

-

Carmen didn’t feel right. She felt off, like something had changed. Was it always this cold? She got up and immediately grabbed her pocket knife, looking around the basement. Everyone was still asleep, it was 5 in the morning to be fair.

She didn’t notice anything different so she made her way upstairs, slowly walking towards the door. She opened it, the place was quiet. She looked over to see Ice and Kk on the couch. Immediately her mind went to Paige and Azzi.

She walked towards the first bedroom, taking a peak inside. Nika was spread across the bed, the cover hanging off of her. Carmen just closed the door back up, letting the girl be. She then made her way towards the second bedroom, listening in for any movement.

She didn’t hear anything and opened the door quietly. The first thing she noticed was the window. It was wide open, making her sigh in annoyance but also in relief. She walked towards the window, not even thinking to look at the bed until she turned back around and noticed the two bodies fully up, looking at her.

She jumped, her pocket knife dropping out her hand. “Sorry.” Azzi apologized as she watched Carmen pick her knife back up. “No, you’re fine,” Carmen sighed. “It felt like something was off so I came up here to check.” She explained.

“It got hot.” Paige spoke. Carmen looked up and noticed this wasn’t the room with a ceiling fan, making her sigh in realization. “There’s a fan in the office, do you want it? I just don’t feel safe with windows open.” Carmen offered as she put her knife back in her pocket.

“Yeah, we’ll take it.” Azzi softly spoke as she pulled the cover over her more. Carmen just nodded before leaving the room and quickly coming back with the fan. She set it up for them and sighed, “There you go.” Carmen walked towards the door but stopped when Paige called out. “Thank you, carmen.” The girl looked at the couple, her stomach flipping as she just nodded.

“Don’t mention it.” Carmen closed the door before letting out a breath. She shook her head before walking back towards the basement. It was still early so she might as well go back to sleep.

“that was strange, no?” Azzi asked as she looked at the blonde. Paige just shrugged, not thinking much of it. “Let’s get some sleep.” Azzi nodded, kissing the blonde on her cheek before lying down completely. Paige followed her movements, getting comfortable in the blankets.

-

“Ugh, where the bacon at?” Nyla asked as she, Emani and Mia stood in the kitchen. They hadn’t mean to be loud, but they woke up Nika and that girl is grumpy when she gets waken up. Nika came out, her hair a bit frizzy but she didn’t care. “Can yall be any louder?” Mia’s head moved at the girls deep voice, a bit taken aback that she sounded like that. Nyla face went blank, “my bad, muhl.” Nika just rolled her eyes before stepping more into the kitchen.

“What are yall even making?” She asked as she scratched her head. Emani turned around, a spatula in her hand. “Breakfast! you like pancakes, right?” Nika just nodded, then looked at Mia who hadn’t looked away from the brunette. Her defensive instincts came, getting a bit self conscious. “You need something?” Mia shook her head, a small grin on her face as she just looked away. Nika’s eyes kept on the girl before she heard a groan come from behind her.

“I smell food.” Kk’s voice could be heard, making Nika mood lift a bit. She sat next to the brunette and hugged her, Nika leaning more into it. “Is anyone else awake?” Mia shook her head, sighing in the process. “Nope. They need to get up, though. Didn’t Carmen say something about a mall?”

Emani nodded her head, finishing the final pancake and sat it on a plate. “Well, breakfast is ready. Go crazy.” She spoke softly as she grabbed dirty dishes and placed them in the sink. Kk was the first in line, grabbing a plate and placing food on it. “Don’t over do it, Kamorea.” Nika spoke as she grabbed a plate as well. Kk just rolled her eyes, waving the girl off. Emani heard footsteps coming up the stairs so she just opened the basements door.

Carmen could be shown walking out, a tired look on her face. She noticed the breakfast on the table, a small smile on her face. “You guys are so nice.” Emani just chuckled, cleaning up any messes she made before grabbing a plate herself. Carmen noticed Paige and Azzi wasn’t there with everyone, not that she cared..

“ICE!” The girl flinched, Kk’s loud voice waking her up. Kk just laughed, taking a bite of her pancake. “Bro, you always doing dumb shit.” Ice muttered as she hid her face from the light. “Can you go wake up paige and azzi?” Nyla asked Carmen. The girl looked at her like she was crazy.

“Why I gotta go do it?” Nyla pointed at everyone. “We all eating, you not.” Carmen just smacked her lips, shaking her head before walking towards the bedroom. She knocked twice before she heard Paige’s voice. “Come in.”

She opened the door softly to see the two looking at her. “Hey, there’s breakfast.” She stated simply, taking note on how the two look like they just woke up. Paige nodded, “Okay. we’ll be out.” Carmen just gave a tight lipped smile before backing up. She didn’t know why things felt a little different between them and her, it was almost like they were speaking about something without actually talking.

“So what’s the word about this mall or whatever?” Nika asked as she took one last bite of her eggs and washed her plate. Carmen finally got her food, sitting down at the dining table. “It’s right up the street.” Paige and Azzi came out while carmen was talking mid sentence, going straight to the kitchen.

“All we can do is pray that there aren’t any of those infected people inside.” Carmen finished as she looked at her food. “I don’t think it’s gonna be empty. Especially since things are so fresh.” Azzi spoke as she ate a pancake. Carmen nodded, a small smirk on her face, “which is why we have our protection.” Azzi nodded, going back to her food.

Carmen looked at everyone as she just thought. About how unfortunate things had went in not even 24 hours, about how at one point they would run out of food, about how in some way she felt responsible for these girls. They’re in a crisis and things don’t always go how you want them. “Is Emma not up yet?” Mia asked as she noticed the girls absence.

Carmen set her plate on the counter, going straight for the basement. “After I get her up, we can head out.” carmen went downstairs and noticed Emma lying there, but she was awake. “Em, you okay?” Emma hummed back, her eyes still on the ceiling. Her body was limp, the blanket still covering her bottom half. Carmen knew something was wrong, “talk to me.” Emma sighed softly, her fingers slightly playing with the strings of a pillow. The question she asked shocked Carmen, it was so abrupt and random. She almost didn’t know what to say.

“What if one of us dies today?”

Carmen heart dropped, the question taking her aback. “I won’t let that happen, Emma.” The girl looked at Carmen. “Anything can happen, carmie.” And she’s right. Anything can happen and that’s what terrified her. “I won’t let anything happen to you.” Emma smiled softly. She looked back at the ceiling, grateful of Carmen words but she had a feeling in her brain.

“I just want you to know,” Emma started as she put her hand on top of Carmen’s. “If anything does happen, please don’t blame yourself.” Carmen looked at the girl, waiting for her to continue. “I know how bad that can get and I don’t want you to get that bad.” Carmen swallowed, her throat going dry.

Emma was always the one Carmen went to first, when it came to anything. Emma always knew what to say and always kept it real with her. She felt the most connected with her and the girl truly had nothing bad to say about her. “Promise me, carmie.” Carmen looked at the girl, gaining her voice back. “I promise, Em.” For her, she’ll try.

my goal is to keep this under 5 parts, no more than 7.

yes, people will be getting killed off (including some of the girls) so be prepared for that

again, this is my first time writing something like this so hopefully it turns out good

byee

[pboogerswbb]

remember when this happened and we all had a communal crashout

[wbb-17]

GOD FUCKING FINALLY

[ohmybueckers]

i’m sorry geno in the halftime interview is killing me

[laylaysdelusions]

Women’s basketball masterlist

<3

Azzi Fudd

azzi fudd x girly!reader

cherry

Pazzi x reader

my silver dress and your kisses

pazzi x short!reader

innocent bliss p1

innocent bliss p2

till she shivering

Paige Bueckers

precious

good morning baby

waiting room p1

waiting room p2

tattoo artist!paige

i heard you like magic

sim wife

me and your mama

sweet and twisted

Pazzi

the princess and the blonde

club jealousy

my little reader

Moodboards

kk x fem!reader moodboard

juju watkins x fem!reader

azzi x fem!reader moodboard

Kk Arnold

jump 5 times

Misc

wbb girls x goth!reader

wbb x goth!reader p2

wbb x neurodivergent!reader

<3

These aren’t all of my fics these are just the ones I like

[burntthebacon]

kamorea the kids and i miss you come home pretty pleaseeee 😫😫

can we talk about her eyes they're sooooo beautiful😋

[urantisocialgay]

I don’t even have the fucking patience.

[prettygirl-gabi]

Chapter 31: Distractions & Comfort

Rating: Teen and Up

Warnings: Mentions of past abusive relationship, stalking, panic attacks, nightmares, fluff, kk and Paige fighting over you.

Paring: Paige Bueckers x !photographer fem reader

Fandom: UConn's Women's basketball

Summary: never go places alone

Welcome to the chapter 31 of Through The Lens. I hope you all enjoy and there is more to come...stay tuned my loveies!! 🏀💕📸

Reader’s POV

The room was dark except for the soft glow of the tv. Paige and I were curled up under the covers, her arms wrapped tightly around me. Sleep felt impossible. Every time I closed my eyes, I saw Marcus standing in my dorm, blocking my way out. My chest felt tight just thinking about it.

Paige’s fingers traced slow, soothing patterns along my arm. “You’re safe,” she whispered for what felt like the hundredth time.

I nodded against her chest, but my mind wouldn’t stop replaying the moment. “I’m sorry,” I muttered.

Paige immediately pulled back just enough to look at me. “Stop that,” she said firmly.

I swallowed hard. “But if I hadn’t gone back to my dorm alone—”

“Don’t,” Paige interrupted. “Don’t do that to yourself.”

I turned my face into her hoodie, my fingers curling around the fabric. “I should’ve called campus security first. I should’ve—”

“Baby,” Paige’s voice was softer now, but still firm. She lifted my chin, forcing me to meet her eyes. “None of this is your fault. Marcus came back because he’s a controlling asshole, not because of anything you did.”

I knew she was right, but the guilt sat heavy in my stomach.

Paige pressed her forehead against mine. “You did everything right. You called Azzi. You stayed calm. And you’re here, safe, with me.”

My eyes stung, and I exhaled shakily. “I don’t want to be scared of him.”

Paige brushed her thumb across my cheek. “You won’t be. Not forever. And until then, you’ve got me. And the entire team.”

I let out a small, tired laugh. “Yeah, I don’t think KK’s letting this go anytime soon.”

Paige grinned. “Oh, absolutely not. She’s been talking about setting up a security detail.”

I rolled my eyes, but my heart felt lighter.

Paige kissed my forehead. “Try to sleep, baby. We’ve got an early morning.”

I curled closer to her, letting the warmth of her presence chase away the lingering fear.

The Next Morning – the bus was buzzing with energy as we headed to the airport for our game against Creighton. I was sitting near the window, laptop open, trying to focus on my business communications assignment. But of course, Paige and KK had other plans.

“I’m sitting next to Y/N,” Paige declared as she plopped into the seat beside me.

KK immediately turned from the row behind us. “Uh, no. I am.”

Paige narrowed her eyes. “She’s my girl.”

KK smirked. “So? Who cares? She’s my mom.”

I groaned. “KK. Paige, for the last time, I am tryin to do school work.”

KK ignored me, still grinning at Paige.

Paige threw her hands up. “Seriously, KK? She’s my girl.”

“Soo? Who cares? You sleep with her, like every night.”

The entire bus erupted into laughter, and I felt my face heat up. “KK!”

Paige’s ears turned red, but she was clearly trying not to laugh. “You’re so annoying.”

I pinched the bridge of my nose. “Neither of you are sitting next to me.”

Paige turned to me, fake-offended. “Excuse me?”

I shot her a look. “Ayanna or Caroline is sitting next to me.”

Caroline, who had been listening from a few rows up, gave me a thumbs-up. “I got you, Y/N.”

KK pouted dramatically. “Betrayal.”

Paige leaned into my side, huffing. “Fine. But just so you know, I’m sitting next to you on the plane.”

I rolled my eyes. “Whatever helps you sleep at night.”

Once on the plane of course, Paige got her way with sitting next to me.

I was trying to finish up my assignment, but Paige had other plans. She kept nudging my arm, whispering nonsense, and generally being a distraction.

“Take a break,” she said for the fifth time.

I glared at her. “Paige.”

She smiled innocently. “Yes, love?”

“I will take your iPad and hide it, for a week if you don’t let me finish this.”

Paige gasped dramatically. “You wouldn’t.”

I gave her a deadpan look.

Azzi, sitting across the aisle, snorted. “She absolutely would.”

Paige sighed, leaning back into her seat. “Fine. But only because I love you.”

I smiled despite myself. “I love you too. Now let me work.”

Paige kissed my temple before finally letting me be.

Safe in her presence, surrounded by my team, I finally felt like everything was going to be okay.

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       -Thank You For Reading!🩵🩶

                             -prettygirl-gabi🎀✨️

Tag list: @sayurireidotcom , @astroeliza , @paxaz535 , @0phantom0 , @yailtsv , @authentic-girl03 , @sevyscoven , @elalfywhore , @sitawita , @jadasogay , .... (more to be added) 

[frankoceannnnn]

I need a moment…

[sidestepsam]

Assisting her teammates on and off the court 🐐