#kym loves stacey

[deanwinchesterswitch]

If you've hung around my blog long enough, you know that my drabbles and one-shots rarely stay drabbles and one-shots. I'm wordy. I own it.😏😆

So, if you saw this post. Not only did Stacey (@princessmisery666) taunt me with gifs to my comments in Discord ...

(x)

(x)

she also challenged me to keep it at 1,000 words or less.

The challenge was accepted, and I brought that puppy in at 993 words!

Upon review and editing, it was found that something was lacking, so she graciously gave me a 30-word extension.

😂😂😂I cannot tell you how fast my Defiant Dean coding kicked in,

making me determined to keep the fic at 1K or less and still write the story I wanted to share.

Because ...

I am happy to say ...

Task Accomplished!

So, if you've made it this far, glad to have you along! 🥰

Also, now you know that Lightning Rod, a Jack Reacher (TV Series) x Reader one-shot, will be available to read on Saturday, March 16, 2024.

I hope you enjoy it!😊

[deanwinchesterswitch]

🥹🥹🥹

I couldn't do it without you.🥰🥰🥰 You are amazing!!

Thank you.😘

Do u ever read a friend’s fic and it’s like holy shit how do you consider me qualified to talk to you?

[justagirlinafandomworld]

Oh, I'm catching up on things I missed while on vacation and I think there is a conspiracy @princessmisery666 @deanwinchesterswitch 🤔🤨 with your Dean stories posted last week, I can't help but feel a little attacked.

And you will be hearing from me.

[princessmisery666]

Happy birthday 🥳 @deanwinchesterswitch 💜 it’s Friday for me so it’s officially your birthday 🎂!!

I’m lucky and proud to be able to call you a friend. Thank you for your friendship and wisdom, for all the chats and help 🥰 I love you. 😍

I hope your day is as amazing as you are 🤩

[spnfanficpond]

May 2023 Angel Fish Awards

(Angel Fish design by @slytherkins!!)

WELCOME TO THIS MONTH’S ANGEL FISH AWARDS!

Every month all of you fantastic writers work your asses off to post some truly incredible stories. Our Angel Fish Awards are the way for all of us, as a community of writers and readers, to lift each other up and give praise to those who have captured our attention and deserve a few kind words.

The monthly Angel Fish Awards are peer-nominated, meaning ANYONE (you don’t have to be a member) CAN NOMINATE ANY POND MEMBER’S FIC. Everyone in this community deserves to be showered with love and feedback, and we hope that this fun, thoughtful award will do just that. (Click here to learn more about how to nominate a fic for an award!)

Be sure to read through this whole post because you may have been nominated more than once!

WITHOUT FURTHER ADO, HERE ARE THIS MONTH’S ANGEL FISH AWARDS!

Nominated by @glygriffe

Best Laid Plans by @thinkinghardhardlythinking

I usually don't read RPF but this came well recommended and it was so fluffy and sweet that I read it all in one sitting. I thoroughly enjoyed every word of it!

Prettiest One by @dean-winchester-is-a-warrior

I like when Dean opens up about his feelings. And if it takes morphine to do it... so be it! 😊

Foxholes by @thoughtslikeaminefield

The POV of Annie on our beloved characters is refreshing. It has an ethereal and reflective quality really effective in so few words. This is craftmanship!

Homesick by @mrswhozeewhatsis

I have a soft spot for fics that are missing scenes or character inner monologues for canon material of the show. This Sam POV from the pilot episode is just that, with equal parts of fluff and angst.

~*~*~

Nominated by @thoughtslikeaminefield

The Hero Always Gets A Kiss by @fandomoniumflurry

Swooned my face off at this! A little slice of Chestervelle not seen on TV but fitting nicely inside (head)canon — where I love the most.

Smokes and Sex Toys by @wayward-and-worn

This one's been lingering for a little over three years, and I ain't mad about it. I can still hear the rush of the river beside my campsite as I read this for the first time during the second lockdown in the summer of 2020. Perfect Dean characterization, a female character I'd love to hang out with, sexy as fuck, and real.

Local Legends (series) by @crashdevlin

This isn't usually my kinda thing, but Cassie's Dean is such a unique brand that I can't quit her/him! Looking forward to the drama. xox

_______ by @dean-winchester-is-a-warrior

At just 109 words it's almost an OG drabble and also makes my chest ache with its absolute Dean-ness, its tenderness, and its intimacy.

~*~*~

Nominated by @mrswhozeewhatsis

Run to You (series) by @deanwinchesterswitch

I finally got to read this series and I AM HOOKED!!! So far, the relationship has built up with no real complications, and I'm so very ready to see how everything breaks apart! (Before Kym puts it all back together, of course!!) This has delicious smut, and I'm betting it will also have delicious angst and some twisty turns before it's done. I can't wait to see where it goes!!

Go Easy by @negans-lucille-tblr

Bee has been posting a Soldier Boy series that wasn't my thing for a while, so imagine my surprise when she posted this hot and steamy Sam one shot!! I have been missing Bee's storytelling, and this was the best way to get a fix!! Don't read this one in public!! [insert ALL the sweating gifs here!!]

Show Me What You're Hiding by @dean-winchester-is-a-warrior

This is a short drabble, but it's descriptive enough of all of Dean's, ahem, ASSETS, that it gets the job done quite thoroughly! Lordy, the images this gave me were definitely rated NC-17!!! *fans self furiously*

Like We Used To by @princessmisery666

Stacey did these little ficlets to get her creative juices flowing, and she knocked all of them out of the park! This one gave me Sam snuggles, which is always a favorite for me. *SWOON*

Present Wrapping Problems by @katymacsupernatural

Tumblr took over five YEARS to tell me about this tag, and I'm gonna die mad about it, I swear. IT'S SO FLUFFY!!!! It's a Christmas fic, and I know it's not Christmas now, but if you need some super-sweet Dean fluff, go read it, anyway!

Who's Lost Now? by @glygriffe

This is a crossover with Doctor Who, the first one I've read, iirc, and I might have to find more, now! Dean just accepting so many of the Doctor's idiosyncrasies is just tickling me. He's so good about accepting people when he likes them. And I can't wait to find out the truth about the Doctor's pocket watch! (DW fans will know what I mean!)

~*~*~

Nominated by @katbratsupernaturalwhore

One Day, I'll Say Hello by @all-alone-he-turns-to-stone

That was adorable and heart wrenching and just so great 🙂 I loved it!

~*~*~

Nominated by @princessmisery666

I Promised by @deanwinchesterswitch

This is so descriptive and angsty, I was holding my breath waiting for the end.

THANK YOU ALL FOR THE AWESOME WORK AND GREAT FEEDBACK!

These are not actual awards, as in, there is no competition! This system is set up so everyone has a chance to share the love and promote a fic/author in the Pond that has grabbed your attention. The more people that participate, the better this will be :D

THANK YOU ALL AGAIN, KEEP UP THE AMAZING WORK, AND AS ALWAYS, HAPPY WRITING!

- FROM YOUR ADMINS AND MANTA RAYS, @MANAWHAAT, @MRSWHOZEEWHATSIS, @MARIEKOUKIE6661, @PRINCESSMISERY666, @THOUGHTSLIKEAMINEFIELD, AND @KATBRATSUPERNATURALWHORE!

[deanwinchesterswitch]

Stacey!!!!! 🤣🤣🤣

After your comment, I had to tag you @princessmisery666.

per a convo with @ghotifishreads

It's now a t-shirt!

[11tumbler]

Case Closed 19

Kym agreed to meet Derek the next day to talk with him. He expressed his concerns and Kym tried to listen. She accused him of being judgemental and closed-minded. When she got home she talked to Robert about it. “So he said he thinks of me like his little sister. I think he thought that would give me some comfort about his behavior. It actually made me mad. I don’t think he would think that if he had a male partner. It’s like he doesn’t see me as his equal. Just a little girl that he has to protect.”<

Being a cop was a very male dominated profession and Robert knew that. “Kym, I’m sorry. And I want to apologize for all men, we’re stupid it’s the way our brains are wired. We are the strong hunters. I don’t know how i would have treated a female partner. I would hope i would see her as any equal. I’m not defending him, cause one I hate him and two he’s made you upset and I’m <b>very</b> protective of you.” He smiles and pulls her against him. “But know that you are a better person than he is because you can look beyond gender stereotypes and do your job.”

The next few weeks Kym spends at home recovering. Robert was back working on his cases so was thankful her mom was here to watch her while he was out. She was gaining her confidence back. They both needed to go to the precinct to talk to internal affairs. Although Derek pushed them to fault Robert, they found the neither of them did anything wrong and she was off-duty at the time. Kym used her down time to plan the wedding. They were getting everything together quickly while her mom was still here, plus she just wanted to marry Robert.

After taking those first 3 weeks off Kym needed to go back to work, but she requested desk duty. It was ok, she worked hard to make detective so she didn’t want to give that up, but she was still weighing her options.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“I don’t know if I should let you go,” Kym says, her arms wrapped around Robert outside of the airport security line.

“Well you know I cant see you the night before our wedding anyway.” He gives her a cheeky smile.

“Ok but your friends better not take you to any strip clubs or get you drunk.”

“No promises,” Robert laughs. He kisses her. “Don’t worry I’ll be good.” He kisses her a few more times. “So what about you?”

“My friends are coming over we’re going to dinner and a wine bar. I want to be back early; I do not want to look tired for pictures.”

“Ok baby, well enjoy your last night of freedom because after this you’re stuck with me for the rest of your life.” Kym smiles at him, she was counting on that. They kiss a few more times and then he gets into the security line.

The next day Kym is getting ready, her mom and one of her girlfriends is helping her. Her mom asks if she’s nervous. “Yes, but it’s just because I want to get all this preparation out of the way and get to the I dos.”

Robert had flown back mid morning and was also getting ready with his friends. Robert sends Greg over to Kym’s room with a present for her. He got there just as her other bridesmaids were arriving. Kym wasn’t dressed yet, but she looked beautiful and he was so happy his friend found someone. He hands Kym the card. <i>Kym, I thought of what I could give you that you didn’t already have. You have my heart, my love, my companionship, my protection, my respect, my understanding and now my promise to love and cherish you for the rest of my life. I know I locked my heart away after having it broken, but you were the key to reopen it. I am thankful everyday that I met you and how much joy and life you have given back to me. I can’t wait to see you walk down the aisle and stand beside me at the alter so I can make this promise to you. Love always Robert. </i> Kym didn’t want to ruin her makeup but it was making her misty - eyed. Greg then hands her a teal box. It’s a white gold Tiffany key bracelet. Kym slips it on. “Here I got him something too.” She moves over to her bag and pulls out a small box with a little card attached. “Tell him thank you.” Greg leaves.

Back at Robert’s room, he’s dressed but doesn’t have his jacket on yet. “Hey, she says thank you. And I’m not sure what you wrote in that card, but it made her cry. This is for you.” He hands the box to Robert. He opens the card. <i>To my future husband, I love you and cannot wait to say I do. From this day forward I’ll be Mrs. Robert Herjavec.</i> She signed the card <i>RH + KH 4 ever </i>. Robert opens the box. There’s a pair of gold cufflinks with initials RH on one and KH on the other. Robert takes out the black ones he had and puts those in. They had about 30 minutes before they needed to be down.

The final few minutes, the last deep breaths and checking to make sure his boutinear and bowtie were straight. He then gets a hug from his friends and walks down to the alter. His groomsmen line up and then her bridesmaids come out. Everyone walks down. Then the music starts and Kym comes around the corner. She looks more than prefect. Robert cannot believe this is reality it feels like a dream.

She stands next to him, he is beaming he is so happy, “You look so beautiful,” he says. The minister starts and they repeat their vows. Robert says I do. He just smiles at Kym, he never thought he wound get remarried, but he never imagined he would find someone like her. She then says her I do. They kiss. The ceremony was short and sweet and perfect. They walk down the aisle being congratulated by their guests.

They make their way up to one of the rooms as they wait for their guests to head to the reception, which was in one of the ballrooms. Kym puts her arms around his neck, they slowly sway back and forth. “I’m so in love with you,” Robert says and places his hands on either side of her face kissing her.

They make their was back downstairs as they are announced as Mr. and Mrs. Robert Herjavec. They dance their first dance to Meghan Trainor’s Like I’m Gonna Lose You. It means something to both of them, they knew they were lucky they had a second chance and loved each other every minute like it could be the last.

Part way through the reception Stacey, Derek’s wife, snuck in. Kym let her know that she was not inviting them to the wedding after her fall out with Derek. She finds Kym. “Hi Kym.”

“Hi! Stacey!” She hugs her.

“You look so beautiful. I’m so sorry to crash, but I wanted to let you know that Derek is sorry about everything that happened and we both are so happy for you.”

“Thank you,” Kym says. “You’re welcome to stay.” Stacey is just about to say no when a few other officers and their wives come over. They convince her to join them at their table.

Later the DJ makes as announcement that the groom has a special song for the bride and she should join him on the dance floor. Kym has no idea what’s going on. Robert takes her in his arms. Toto’s Africa starts playing. As they are dancing Robert confesses, “I thought this a prefect song as I’m taking you to the Serengeti for our honeymoon.” He wouldn’t tell Kym anything about it, but now surprises her with an African safari. She’s so excited.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

They were packing for their honeymoon. “Robert?” Kym asks from the bathroom.

He was packing his suit case on the bed, he turns around, “Yes baby?”

“Should I pack this?”

It took him while to figure out she was holding up the package of her birth control pills. “It’s up to you.”

She looks at him a bit unsure, “Then no?”

He walks over to her, “Then no.”

She drops them into the trash. She puts her arms around his neck and smiles, “Then yes?”

He knew what she meant and he knew she wanted kids. “Then yes.” They kiss.

“Robert?” Kym asks, her hands still crossed behind his neck.

“Yes?”

“I’ve thought about it and if I get pregnant I’ll stay on desk work and when the baby’s born I’m going to quit.”

“That’s fine baby. If it makes you happy that’s what I want. You can stay home and raise all the babies.”

“All the babies?”

“As many as you want.”

Kym always had in her mind having 2 or 3 kids so she was excited that Robert also wanted that. He was her perfect match. She knew she would be loved and protected the rest of her life with him by her side.

[zarafoodrecipe]

Father and daughter face murder charges over Kym Taylor death

A third person, Stacey Lea Wright, 27, was initially charged with accessory after the fact on December 10. But that charge was upgraded to murder this week. Ms Wright will face Armadale Magistrates Court on Thursday on the new charge. WAtoday understands she is Mr Wright's daughter. Ms Taylors mother Courtney Hill-Aaron and her aunt Leanne Taylor spoke to the media several days after her body was found in an effort to generate leads for police. Her aunt described the 37-year-old as a beautiful and intelligent person, and remembered meeting her niece for the first time. "I remember her laugh as a little girl," she said. "She was a little redhead running around all over the place when we met her for the first time, when [Ms Hill-Aaron] brought her down to Esperance. "She was just this gorgeous little baby. When they had to bring her back to Perth, it was - 'no, don't take her away!'" Ms Hill-Aaron said her daughter was an intelligent woman. "She did go to uni, she was studying. She got into Indigenous servicing as well that was her passion," her mother said. "Kym ... really wanted to make something of herself, she really tried really so hard but there were a lot of things in her way. "She had a lot of demons, Kym did. But we know that we loved her. We still love her." Phil covers breaking news with a focus on court, crime and police for WAtoday. Most Viewed in National Loading https://www.smh.com.au/national/western-australia/father-and-daughter-face-murder-charges-over-kym-taylor-death-20181220-p50ndi.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feed

[deanwinchesterswitch]

Image courtesy of @scoundrels-in-love

Do you know what happens when you innocently yet excitedly tell a friend about the epic thunderstorms occurring in your area?

Well, first, since it's Thirsty Thursday, you get a couple of gifs sent of this man.

Then she tries to kill you by sending SIXTEEN more, each one funnier than the last because they are used to counter your responses.

The final blow was this one ...

So tell me, what was I to do, assaulted with the image of this near-naked hunk while the thunder crashed outside?!!

Well, what happened is I started writing a ficlet about cuddling with this mountain of muscle while listening to a thunderstorm rage outside!

The blame falls squarely on @princessmisery666.😂

Creators: ask for prompts, post ask memes, reblog your own posts and link your other social media. Be as thirsty for attention as you want to be!

Fans: Post about the fics/art/gifsets you want the most. Make a post with an open prompt available to any creators who are willing to take it on! Tell people what you want to see in your fandom, and be as self-indulgent as you want.

[deanwinchesterswitch]

If the aesthetics requests are still open…Rick Flag + music + making up 😘 💜

This is SO long overdue (It's the last request from Sep of 2023). Ugh. But it's finally finished.

I started with a tiny little drabble to go with the aesthetic, and it got way out of hand.

It is now my first ever Rick Flag fic with a little over 3,600 words.👀

It will be posted tomorrow, Feb 14.

Now, maybe I can get back to focusing on my beloved in RtY and AWtR.

[justagirlinafandomworld]

Maybe one night can turn into two...

Oh goodness, you and @deanwinchesterswitch both? 🥺💓 you know I just want to make you happy.

I'll poke my muse and see what she says. 😘

[princessmisery666]

💜🤩

He’s all sleepy and gruff and sweet and I love it 💜so glad you gave into the peer pressure 😜

Lightning Rod

Summary: Despite the chaos that often surrounds each of your lives, he is the calm in the storm. Pairing: Jack Reacher x Female Reader Word Count: 1,000 Warnings: Fluff, Implied smut Instigator and Beta: princessmisery666 Photo Source: (x); Banner made by me.

The howling wind picks up, making the wooden structure protecting you creak and moan against its force. Rain pelts the windows, bright, jagged lightning randomly illuminates the room, and deep, rolling thunder resonates to the marrow of your bones. But what makes your skin prickle and nerve endings tingle is the gruffly whispered, “It’s going to be a good one.”

“Promise?” you ask, laying a hand on his chest. The deep rumble of his laugh shakes the entire bed, and you smile, turning to kiss the warm, smooth skin beneath your cheek. You can’t help but squirm and giggle when his fingers tickle your side as he glides a hand down your back to rest it on your hip.

“There is a ninety-percent chance of storms continuing until 0200 with a small break and will start again at 0400. With the surface dew point at 58 degrees Fahrenheit and the latent instability that increased once the storm passed the Rockies, it is-” 

“Reacher.” You cut him off with a slap to his chest. His extraordinary intelligence is one of the many reasons you find him attractive, but the dry factual delivery can sometimes be arduous. Rolling your eyes, you settle into his side and chuckle, “Can we just lie here and listen?”  

Shifting to kiss the top of your head, he gives you a quick squeeze and then lies back, free hand shoved under his head, and states, “Yes.”

The storm is stronger now—the thunder louder and more intense. Rain no longer strikes the glass in heavy drops but flows down the pane like a waterfall. Sighing happily, you snuggle closer to his warmth. The only thing separating the two of you is the soft cotton boxers he’s wearing and the thin—too small for those seam-bursting muscles—t-shirt you stole from him.

Reacher's not a guy you expect a commitment from, so when he does stop by, you take full advantage of his visit. Since he unexpectedly showed up on your doorstep, the two of you have been holed up in your home, fucking, eating, napping, fucking—rinse and repeat. You match his stamina for the most part, but after three days, exhaustion is creeping in. When the storm lulls, the slow rise and fall of his chest and steady heartbeat beneath your ear are the Pied Piper of slumber.

Startling awake when a crash of thunder shakes the house and rattles the windows, Jack tightens his hold and runs a hand over your hair. “You’re safe. Go back to sleep.”

Humming contentedly, you whisper, “Love you.” He doesn’t reply but squeezes your hip. More often than not, each of your lives is a tempest of diplomacy, expedience, kill or be killed, and general mayhem. Reacher is your eye of the storm, your lightning rod. No matter what is happening around you, you know you will always be safe when he’s near. Nestling into the crook of his shoulder, you delightedly drift back into dreamland.

The shrill screeching of your alarm wakes you next, and you throw out your arm to hit the snooze button or toss it across the room. Either will work as long as the racket ceases, but you can’t quite reach it. The arm around your waist pulls you back against solid muscle and further away from the cacophony. “Jaaaaack.”

He groans, reaching over you to silence the offending hunk of plastic and metal. In the stillness that follows, you hear the ongoing storm; rain steadily patters against the window, but the thunder now echoes from a distance. Turning to face him, you grumble, ”Traffic’s gonna suck.” Kissing the hollow of his throat, you flatten a hand on his stomach, reluctantly pushing away to slip out of the bed. The iron band that is his arm is quickly around you once again holding you firmly in place.

“You don’t have to go.” 

His sleep-raspy voice sends a pleasant tremor through your body. You’d love nothing more than to stay right where you are, but the long weekend is over, and you have to face reality again. “I’m supposed to be back at work today,” you mutter as your finger traces a path between his prodigious pectoral muscles.

“No.” 

“I-” The soft scrape of stubble along your jaw parts your lips, allowing him to steal your breath in a hungry kiss—mouth released as your head starts to spin, you’re left with just enough functioning brain cells to realize how insane you are to contemplate leaving while this man lies naked in your bed. Weakly pushing against his chest, you stutter, “I need-”

The grip on your ass cheek and rough kneading are unexpected, but you desperately moan when he rolls his hips forward, letting you feel his desire pressed hard against your mound, teeth grazing the meat of your shoulder. Your body is a maelstrom of reaction—muscles flex, flesh warms, pulse ratchets, nerve endings ignite, breath stalls, and heat and pressure pool low in your belly, making you throb with need. When your walls clench involuntarily in response, hungry to be filled once again, you exhale sharply, “Shit, I-”

“Okay, fine,”

Did he growl? 

It takes a moment for your brain to catch up, but when you notice he’s released you from his hold, you tilt your head to look at him. There is no way you could ever accuse him of pouting, but you can see disappointment in his eyes. Holding back the laugh bubbling in your throat, you say, “I was trying to tell you that I at least need to call in.”

It doesn’t happen often, but when he smiles, it’s just as bright as he is big. Rolling over, he squishes you into the mattress with his lower body, resting most of his weight on his forearms. “I already took care of it.”

“Reach-” Warm breath tickles your upper lip, and your half-hearted admonishment is terminated with the sweep of his tongue and a thigh nudged between your legs.

Not sure who would be interested besides you, @kittenofdoomage.😆 Stacey's already mentioned above.

[11tumbler]

Case Closed 17

Robert had asked Greg to bring some clothes for Kym so she would feel more comfortable. He dropped them off and they talked before he flew back to San Diego. Robert was there when the nurse changed her bandages. “What does it look like?” Kym asks him. “Nothing baby, just a little cut.” Kym assumes he’s lying and studies them in the mirror as she changes. There was the one on her neck and then one above her right breast where they cut the bullet out. Robert was watching her. He knew it wasn’t vanity that had her staring at the scars, but the thought of her own mortality. She finishes getting dressed. “I can’t wait to get out of here, do you think they let me leave today?” “I don’t know, we’ll have to talk with the doctors,” Robert answers.

They said Kym needed to stay in the hospital. They put a scope down her throat to check the incisions. It was awkward and painful. She held Robert’s hand, he hated seeing her in pain. Once visiting hours start Kym gets a group of officers from the precinct. Robert feels out of place, but she insists he stay. The officers ask how it happened, where she was, etc. She keeps making eye contact with Robert, he can see she’s upset talking about it. He doesn’t want to offend any of her friends, but the third time she looks at him he says, “Hey guys. I know it was crazy how Kym was injured, but let’s just be excited that she’s going to be ok. We can talk about her recovery and when she’ll be back to work.” She smiles at Robert for his help to change the subject.

That afternoon, Stacey, Derek’s wife and his daughter visit. Their daughter made Kym a card. It was written in crayon and just the cutest. Shortly after they left flowers arrived from Robert’s friends in San Diego. Robert didn’t mind staying in the hospital with Kym, he just wanted to take care of her. She was still struggling with eating. The hospital was giving her soft food, but it still felt like sand grating against her throat. She tried to be out of bed as much as possible and was thankful Robert had her clothes brought there so she wasn’t wearing a gown. That evening she has Robert recline the chair and she sits with him, her back against his chest and his arms around her. She felt so safe.

The next day they are discharging Kym. They give Robert some tips on foods for her. They get back to Kym’s house. There a few dishes in the sink and they need to do laundry. Robert starts in the kitchen. Kym helps and washes the dishes. Robert says he’s going to start laundry, Kym asks him to help her finish up in the kitchen and she’ll help him. He notices she’s tired and suggests she lie down, but she doesn’t want to. He wasn’t a detective for 20 years to not pick up on subtle clues, he notices she’s staying with him wherever he goes.  He thought she was extra cuddly in the hospital because she was miserable, but now at home she was still insecure.  “I got terrible sleep in the hospital, come on let’s go lie down,” Robert suggests so she’ll relax.

Kym lies down on Robert, her cheek pressed against his chest.  He wraps his arms around her back and sits forward to kiss the top of her head.  After a few seconds she nervously asks, “Robert. What were you thinking when I was shot?” He takes a deep breath, he hopes he doesn’t upset her with what he says. “I’m sorry Baby, I was trying to stay positive, but I kept thinking you were dying.  I couldn’t stop thinking that the worst was about to happen.  i just kept holding on, every second was a second closer to help arriving. It was hurting me to see you in so much pain, but i had to do everything to keep you safe. It made me realize that I do not want to live without you.  I just couldn’t picture my future without you in it.” He tightens his grip around her. She pauses for a moment before saying what she needed to. “Robert, I was picturing all the things I wouldn’t have.  Getting married, having children and growing old, with you.“ She pauses, unsure how he’s going to react to that, “I know that’s not want you want, but” Robert interrupts her.  He was a bit surprised as they never even mentioned the word marriage or kids.  But he knew he was in love with her.  “Baby I meant what I said about not wanting to live without you.  I know this would be a lame marriage proposal, but I’d get down on one knee right now and ask you to marry me if you wanted me to.” Kym lifts her head and looks at him. “Really?”  “Of course,” Robert answers and sits forward and kisses her head.  She lies back down on his chest and snuggles into him. They quietly rest for a few moments.  “So you really want to go right to kids, we couldn’t just get a dog first,” Robert jokes.  Kym sits up and laughs.  She kisses him. “I love you.” “I love you more,” Robert answers. 

Kym’s phone is ringing and it wakes them both up. Kym sits up too quickly turning her head and breaths out in pain. “Baby be careful,” Robert whispers. Kym answers the phone. She hangs up. “That was my mum. Her flight lands at 11 tomorrow.” “Are you sure she’s ok with staying at my place.” “Yes! I want to stay there.” Kym just wanted to be out of the city, as far away from LA and what happened to her as she could.

The next day they head to LAX to pick up Kym’s mom. Robert was nervous to meet her for the first time especially under the circumstances.  Kym’s mom comes through security and Kym rushes to meet her.   “Oh my gosh, Kymmie. Sweetie how are you,” she says as they embrace.  “Yes mum, I am ok.  I missed you so much.  Mum, this is Robert.” “Hi Barbara, its great to meet you.”  Her mom agrees as she shakes Robert’s hand.  She and Kym continue to catch up as they head down to pick up her bags. “So Kym what happened, I was in shock when Derek called that you had been shot.  He didn’t know too many details.” “Mum, don’t worry about that.  There was a drug house and we were walking past and they just randomly shot, we were not the targets.” “Kym i cannot believe you live in a place where people just shoot at you. I am not sure why you do what you do.“ Kym heard this concern from her mom over the years. “Oh mum really, let’s not do this again. I’m fine, the states are not dangerous.” Robert could tell there was singe tension between them. “Barbara, I hope you don’t mind, but we were planning on staying at my place in Malibu, you’ll have your own bedroom.” “Oh that’s fine Robert, thank you. I don’t mind, I’m just happy to see Kym and know that she is alright.” They get her bags and Robert loads then into Kym’s car and he drives them up to his place.

Kym could see Robert was acting a bit weird, which she attributed to her mom being there and him being nervous. After they get settled and chat for a bit, Robert suggests he head out and get groceries. Kym is a little hesitant, but he assures her she’ll be fine.  He gets into her car and starts off for the store.  As soon as he parks he pulls out his phone and calls Greg.  ”Hey Robert, what’s up?” “Hi, uh,” he pauses. ”What’s wrong?  Is it Kym, is she ok?” “Uh yea, she’s ok.  Its, uhm.” he gathers his thoughts. “I want to marry her.” ”Ok.” Greg tries to bring Robert back to reality. “Well it seems like you really like her, so I think as this thing progresses its good that you are thinking about this now.” “No, I mean right now.  I want to marry her right now.  Like I want to get a ring and ask her today.”  ”Whoa, are you getting ahead of yourself.  I know you both just had a traumatic experience, so maybe that is it.” Robert disagrees with him. ”Ok so what’s the rush, you’ve only been dating a few months, why not wait a year. “No, what difference does it make if I ask her now or date her for a year then ask her.  I am in love with her, she wants a family and to settle down and I want to give that to her.”  ”Ok so why are you calling me, you must not be sure. Are you looking for me to talk you into or out of it?” “Neither. Greg she’s changed my whole life, I could never give her up. I just wanted some advice on how to ask her and maybe help picking out a ring?” They continue talking and then Robert gets some groceries and heads back.

“Kym, I was thinking there are a lot of people that want to see you, do you think we could have a small party and invite all your friends. I was thinking next week, if you think you’ll be up to it.” “Yea ok. I’ve been getting a lot of messages on my phone. I think you’re right.” “Ok. Well let’s do it next Saturday. At your place, that will be closer for everyone. You can invite whoever you want. I know my friends from San Diego would want to come also.”

That evening they are lying in bed, “Robert, can we go sleep upstairs?” Kym asks. “Sure,” he quickly agrees seeing the look in her eyes that he can’t resist. He knew they wouldn’t have any privacy since the bed was just up in the loft, so he throws a shirt on. They get snuggled into bed. Robert is propped up and Kym is lying in front of him her back to his chest. “The view is so beautiful,” she whispers looking out to the moonlight on the ocean. “I know. But that’s because I’m looking at you.” He sits up kissing her head. He continues, “You know I feel so lucky being able to hold you every night, it calms me down and makes me believe in true love. You are absolutely the most beautiful person I’ve ever met, inside and out and I’m so in love with you. Kym puts her hands over Robert’s and tightens his grip around her. “When I say I love you, I feel like it doesn’t even express how I feel. It’s like you’re every breath I take, I feel you through my whole body. I’ve never felt this way about anyone.” “Me either, baby.”

Kym’s mom was trying to sleep but it was mid morning for her. She heard everything they said. Now she knew why Kym was so in love, this was the most beautiful love story ever written.

[11tumbler]

Case Closed 14

Kym’s stomach growls, she and Robert are face to face softly kissing after sex. “Ok, I better feed you,” he jokes. He just throws his boxers on, Kym grabs a t-shirt and shorts. They start eating. “So Derek wants us to have dinner at his place tomorrow,” she explains to Robert. “Ok,” he smiles but inside he’s dreading it. Two cops one woman, never a good mix. Robert was her boyfriend, but Derek was her partner and that was such a strong bond for police officers. He would go and make Kym happy. “So how did everything go in San Diego?” Kym asks. “Good.  We got a lot of evidence.  I’ll have to go back in a few months to testify.  But I should be around here for a while.  I have a few other cases going.  Someone called me last night to hire me.  A young kid’s parents, heroin overdose.  They saved her thankfully, but she’s in a coma and they are looking for answers on where she got the drugs.”  They continue talking about work as they finish eating.  Then get back into bed and snuggle up together.  Which only starts as snuggling, but ends with them sleeping naked and relaxed.

It is Wednesday at work.  “Derek, I need to tell you something,” Kym says so nervous. “Hey you better not be backing out of dinner.  Wait did you make your boyfriend up,” he softly punches her shoulder teasing her. “No.  But look the guy I’m seeing.  He’s that private detective, Robert Herjavec.” “What?!  Really, Why?” “Well why, because he is nice and we get along great.” “Is that why he was so involved in our case.” Derek asks suspiciously questioning Robert’s motives. “Well I don’t know, I just know he helps out the police a lot, so he was just helping out.  I don’t think it had anything to do with me.”  Kym felt like she needed to justify this relationship to Derek.  But why, what was she trying to prove.  And to whom?

They arrive that evening at Derek’s.  “Hello Kym,” he gives her a quick hug.  And with a slight smug smile he extends his hand, “Hello, I’m Derek, we never formally met.” “Hi Robert.  Thanks for having us over for dinner.” “Sure, come in.” Derek’s wife comes out of the kitchen, “Hi, Kym, it’s been ages,” she hugs her.  Then she turns to Robert, “Hi, I’m Stacey.” “Hi Robert,” he smiles. “Well come in, sit down,” she says.

“So Derek says you’re a private investigator?” Robert starts to answer, but is interrupted by Derek. “You were a San Diego cop though, why’d you leave?” Robert knew that was a loaded question. He figures Derek probably dug into his background. “Yea I was. It just seemed like I could do more as a private investigator.” “More than begin a police officer!” Derek asks. “Or do you mean you could make more money?” “Ok what’s the issue here, that he’s a private investigator or that he’s dating me!?” Kym asks. “No issue,” Derek says backing off. “So Kym what have you both been doing the past few weeks?” Stacey asks trying to bring the conversation back to an innocent level. They continue talking for a few minutes until it’s time to eat.

They call their 4-year-old daughter down, who greats “Auntie Kym,” which Robert thinks is the cutest thing. They sit to eat. Robert is careful to complement Stacey’s cooking, “This is delicious. I’ve gotten so spoiled with Kym cooking for me every night. She’s also an amazing cook.” Kym smiles at him. The conversation was a little more polite with their daughter there, but Derek was still interrogating Robert.

At the end of the evening they all say goodbye and walk to Robert’s car. He helps Kym in and then gets in and starts to drive away. “I wonder if I had a female partner if I’d be that protective?” Robert says. “I will admit that was slightly ackward. Do you think he’s overprotective?” “Yes, almost like a brother or an ex-boyfriend” “Really?  I mean I never noticed before, do you think he is jealous?” “I don’t know, I just think he is suspicious of me and very protective of you.” They get home and ready for bed.  Kym faces Robert, “Thank you for coming to dinner with me.  I’m sorry Derek was acting like an ass.” Robert pulls her into his chest and kisses the top of her head. She falls asleep resting against his chest listening to his heart beat.

The next morning Kym’s alarm goes off.  “Ugh, I don’t want to go to work.  I really hope Derek isn’t an ass.” “Don’t worry about him, if you’re happy you don’t need to justify this to anyone.  And if you are not happy, you should probably tell me now.” Kym laughs.  She sits up over him and starts kissing him.  He takes her face in his hands and pulls her into more passionate kisses.  “Do I have time for a little love making?” In between kisses, Robert answers, “Depends on how late you want to be for work.”  Kym decided she wanted to be really late for work so fully straddles him and comes down on his chest falling into his kisses.  

[11tumbler]

Case Closed 13

Kym wakes up engulfed in Robert’s arms. She could feel that he was already awake. But she didn’t want anyone to move or say anything, so she tucks herself back against him. “Good morning,” he whispers. She creeps her arm out and around his back holding him against her. She doesn’t want to move away from his body. “I can see you don’t want to get up,” he whispers. Kym shakes her head no. He laughs at how adorable she is. He loves everything about her especially when she’s so soft and vulnerable. She had to be tough to be a cop in a male dominated profession, but this, just being in his arms and him surrounding and protecting her was what he treasured most. “Well I don’t have anything planned for today so if you want to stay like this all day I’m fine with that.“ He kisses her cheek.

Kym stretches open finding his lips and wrapping her arms behind his neck. They continue kissing, getting more and more passionate and then Robert eases himself inside her. It wasn’t even so much as the act of sex, but just the fact that they were together that they both enjoyed. They do eventually find their way out of bed.

Kym pouts as she’s towel drying her hair, “I don’t want to leave today.” Robert walks over putting his chin on her shoulder and his arms around her waist. “I know. We have a few hours before your flight was there anything you wanted to do?” “Can we just get lost somewhere? Where’s the most romantic place in San Diego, away from people and the busyness of life. We can just go and be alone for a few hours.” Robert grabs his phone and starts looking for activities. He finds gondola rides, but they start at 3 pm and Kym’s flight is at 4. He suggests they just walk around Balboa Park.

Kym was happy. She hasn’t felt this way about anyone. Something between them was just amazing even though it had only been a short time they’ve known each other. She walks with her arm around his back and her head tucked against his shoulder and chest. Robert’s arm was up along her back with his hand on her neck and shoulder. Everything was so comfortable between them. They mostly just walked. They talked a bit about some of the things they were looking at, but mostly they were silent.

Robert regrettably breaks the silence, “So you know it’s time we head to the airport.” Kym sighs. She knew she had to leave and she was going to see him soon so she just needed to suck it up and be strong. They make their way back to his car and to the airport. They stand in the lobby before the security line and hold each other. Just a few short months earlier Kym thought he was going to be a thorn in her side now she’s fallen in love with him. “When do you think you’ll be back?” Kym whispers. “Not sure maybe a week or so. I guess it depends on how quickly I can find some evidence.” “Well be quick about it then,” Kym teases. “I will.” He kisses the top of her head. She pulls back, they share several kisses before she heads through security.

Kym gets home and just starts going through her routine to get everything ready for work tomorrow. Kym is lying in bed wondering why she misses him so much. He’s only going to be gone for a short while and she’s been single for a long time. She thinks back to their conversation last night and when he said he was in love wth her and she admitted the same. Maybe it was the fact that she finally found the one. People talked about true love, soul mates, maybe this is what it feels like when you find yours. You always want them with you and you can’t breathe when they’re not there.

Monday at work,Derek can see she’s quiet. “Hey how are you doing?” “I’m ok.” “You know, Stacey was saying she hasn’t seen you in a while, why don’t you come over for dinner.” “Oh no, but thank you. I’m ok.” “Ok. Did you start seeing someone?” “Uh yea.” “Did you break up, you seem so down.” “Oh no.” “Well then, invite him to dinner too.” “He’s out of town right now.” Derek wasn’t sure if she was lying or not. “Ok well when he’s not out of town, you both should come over for dinner. I’d like to meet him anyway. You can give me his name I’ll do a little digging on him.” “You know I’m a cop too, i can do a background check,“ Kym laughs. “Ok. We will come for dinner.” Kym knew Derek would be surprised to know who she was seeing.

Robert was gone for the whole week and weekend. They would call or text when they could. Kym had two more homicides she was investigating so she was busy, which helped pass the time. Tuesday morning she gets a call that she has a delivery up front. She finds a bouquet of 8 roses. She brings it to her desk, everyone gushes over it. “One rose for each day I was away from you. Love Robert.” Kym saw the 8 roses, that would be through Monday, today was Tuesday, she really hoped that meant he was on his way home.

She phones him. “Hello,” he answers. “Hi. I received the roses. I noticed there are 8 of them. Does that mean you’re on your way home?” Kym asks hopefully. “Yes. I’m actually at my place in Malibu right now. I’ll be at your place tonight before you get home.” Kym smiles so big. She whispers, as to not scream in the precinct, “I can’t believe you’re home. I can’t wait to see you.” “I know baby, I missed you too.” “Ok I’ll see you later, I love you.” “I love you more,” Robert replies.

Kym was so excited that she was hoping to see him later. Derek walks back over to his desk. “Oooo, the boyfriend sent flowers,“ Derek teases as he smells the flowers. "So is he back in town yet?” “Yes.” “Ok then dinner tomorrow, no excuses.” Kym agrees. Then they head out to one of their crime scenes with the forensics team.

Kym walks into her house with a huge smile on her face. Robert gets up from the couch. She rushes to him throwing her arms around him kissing him. "I stopped and got something for dinner, it’s in the oven staying warm.” “Dinner can wait,” Kym says. They continue passionately kissing. Robert scoops her up and carries her to the bedroom.

[justagirlinafandomworld]

This is another gorgeous chapter, Kym. I can't get over how much love for Dean is in this! That's what I have come away with at the end of each chapter; the understanding and love for him and the earnestness to make him happy, physically, emotionally and spiritually.

Now, for my favorite parts:

Growling, Dean bends to pick her up and flips her over his shoulder. “Woman, I need sustenance and coffee.” Miracle barks loudly, tail animatedly wagging, as Nic’s peal of laughter echoes through the hallway.

Love how primal he got!

“Right.” He claps his hands, rubbing them together. “You two lovebirds eaten yet? Food, I mean.”

Sam’s bitchface is epic, and Stacey blushes as she tries to hide her face in Sam’s arm. Nic snorts under her breath.

This was hilarious! Love how you are including Sam's budding relationship with Stacey.

Nic's speech to Dean at the end there was so moving. 🥹 Again, the love for Dean is overwhelming in the best way. I'm looking forward to their road trip and seeing what Dean decides to capture with his new equipment.

The Girlfriend Who Remade Christmas

Square: Photographer AU (might be a bit of a stretch, but that’s what your imagination is for😊) ~ @spnchristmasbingo

Song: A Little Christmas - Ryland James

Pairing: Dean x Nicole {Nico/Nic} OFC

Summary: Dean receives a gift but isn’t pleased about the proviso… until he hears about the compensation.

Warnings: Flirting and more flirting; Implied sex (lots of it); Some angst was thrown in for good measure; Canon divergence

Word Count: 3521

Beta: @princessmisery666. Thank you!!!!💗

Credit: The stunning title card and dividers were made by @talesmaniac89.

Part Five: Let Me Show You

Rolling onto his side, Dean contentedly hums, eyes landing on the bare shoulder of Nicole’s sleeping form. It’s the first time in a week that she hasn’t slipped from their bed before he woke. Wrapping an arm around her waist, he gently tugs her back against him. Chilly flesh brushes over his shins, and he yelps in surprise.

“Cold,” she mutters, shivering as she wriggles closer. 

“I can feel that,” he chuckles. The room does feel colder than usual. As he debates whether to get up and check the furnace, the old ductwork groans to life. The outside temperature must have dropped overnight. He’ll adjust the thermostats later. Right now, he wants to snuggle with his girl and curls around her, “C’mere, I’ll warm you up,” hissing as he lets her slip her feet between his legs.

“S’rry,” she groggily slurs.

Chuckling, he kisses the back of her head. “It’s okay.”

As her body warms, the pattern of her breathing evens out, and he knows she’s fallen back to sleep. Yesterday had been busy and long. She’d made good on her promise to make it worth his wait, and it was well past midnight by the time he slipped from between her legs for the final time that night and fell onto the bed next to her, worn out and sated. He has no problem letting her sleep a little longer, especially when she’s snug in his arms.

He’s still kind of tired, too. The emotional rollercoaster of the previous day had taken a toll. It was great seeing his found family all together, but by the end of the day, the Christmas overload had him feeling like the grinch Nic had accused him of being. Since they have no plans for today, he pulls the covers tighter around them, shifting down to nuzzle into her neck. The faint aromas of vanilla and cinnamon lingering on her skin, combined with the heady scent of sex, lull him back into blissful slumber.

The next time he wakes, she’s sprawled on top of him, a leg thrown over his hips, an arm draped across his chest, and her face pressed into his neck. “Comfy?” he asks, knowing she’s not asleep, her fingers drawing figure eights on his shoulder.

“Very,” she laughs, sliding fully on top of him while kissing along his jaw. Straddling his waist, she kisses his cheek, his forehead, and the tip of his nose.

“Well, good morning, gorgeous. Didn’t get enough last night?”

“Never enough…” she moans, wiggling against him, “of you.”

Cradling the back of her head, an arm around her lower back,  Dean sits up before rolling them to the side until he’s hovering over her.  

Nic pushes her fingers into his hair, interlacing them at the back of his head. Smiling coyly, she pulls him toward her. “Morning, handsome.”

It’s another hour before they leave the room to take a shower together. She can’t seem to get enough of him today, but he’s not gonna object. Close to another hour passes before they’re finally dressed and headed hand in hand toward the kitchen. Miracle happily trotting along in their wake.

“I’m starving,” she whines.

“I’ll bet you are,” he laughs, letting go of her hand to throw an arm over her shoulders and pull her against his side. “That was quite a workout this morning.”

She giggles, sliding an arm around his lower back and splaying a hand over his stomach. “Sorry.”

Dean tugs her hand from his stomach, bringing it to his lips to kiss her palm. “Hey, I wasn’t complaining.” Using her hand to pat his stomach, he grins down at her. “But, definitely worked up an appetite.”

“M&M cookies and fudge?”

“Can’t believe I’m gonna say this,” Dean shakes his head, “but I think we need something a little more substantial.”

Nic stops short, halting him with a hand on his chest. Squinting up at him, she slaps the back of her hand against his forehead.

“Ow! What the-”

“You feeling alright? Maybe we should get you back to bed.”

Growling, Dean bends to pick her up and flips her over his shoulder. “Woman, I need sustenance and coffee.” Miracle barks loudly, tail animatedly wagging, as Nic’s peal of laughter echoes through the hallway. She’s still laughing as he sets her down in the kitchen, ensuring she’s steady on her feet before releasing his hold.

Nic begins gathering ingredients as he starts a fresh pot of coffee. Pouring himself a cup before it’s even finished brewing, not caring that the first tentative reviving sips nearly scald his tastebuds while he absently scratches between Miracle’s ears.  

She turns, holding up a bottle of the good maple syrup and a bag of powdered sugar when he steps up to her side and sets a steaming cup on the counter for her. “Hey, are there any unfrosted donuts left?”

“Yeah, a few. What are you thinking?” 

“Maple glazed, topped with…” Dean immediately knows where she’s headed, and they exclaim together, “bacon!” 

Smiling proudly, he squeezes her waist. “A woman after my own heart.”

“I thought I already had it,” Nic pouts. 

“You do, honey.” Kissing her forehead, he pulls her into a hug. “Every last piece of it.” 

It was a mess of duct tape and glue when they first met, but the entirety of it belonged to Nic from the start. Whenever his heart lies damaged and shattered in his chest, she gathers up the fragments, patching and mending with vigilance and devotion. It had been a dark, horrific job at first, but with each fractured piece that was unfixable, she replaced the missing shards with pieces of hers until it was whole again. It terrified him that she would lose too much of herself, that it would destroy her. He worried that he would lose her and, in turn, lose himself. 

It never happened, though. Every time she shone a light against the darkness of self-doubt and loathing he mired himself in, fought the demons that forever plagued his mind, or pulled him from the depths of guilt and despair, she seemed to burn brighter, hotter—a beacon fire to guide him home. 

It took him a long time, and honestly, there are still days filled with doubt, but he’s come to accept that she’s where she belongs, and it’s with him. If there’s one thing he can bank on in this crazy world, it’s her unwavering stubborn commitment to keep moving forward. He’ll never understand why she bound her heart to his, but not one day goes by that he’s not grateful she did, especially now that they have a chance at a life together. Something a little more conventional. 

So why am I having such a hard time accepting it?

Sam clears his throat as he enters the kitchen, stopping Dean from spiraling down a rabbit hole that keeps opening in his path. He kisses the top of Nic’s head and releases her, turning to see Stacey standing just behind his brother. Wriggling his eyebrows, he exclaims gleefully, “Morning, Sammy.”

“It’s S-” 

Dean quickly cuts him off with a nod in Stacey’s direction. “Good morning.” 

“Good morning, Dean,” Stacey politely replies, moving to stand beside his brother, “Nicole.”

“Stacey! Glad to see you’re still with us.”

After Sam had given Stacey a tour of the bunker areas they commonly use—Dean had overheard Nic’s whispered suggestion to Sam that maybe they ease her into the knowledge of the more unconventional rooms—the four of them had sat in the library, sharing a bottle of whiskey, filling her in on all the things that go bump in the night. There was still a lot she didn’t know, but after the basics had been covered, Nic had excused them from the conversation. 

“Food?” Nic whispers, tugging on Dean’s shirt.

“Right.” He claps his hands, rubbing them together. “You two lovebirds eaten yet? Food, I mean.”

Sam’s bitchface is epic, and Stacey blushes as she tries to hide her face in Sam’s arm. Nic snorts under her breath.

“I was just going to fix us something,” Sam stiffly replies. 

Dean directs his attention to Stacey. “Let me guess. He offered to make an egg white omelet with kale?” 

Stacey smiles and nods, slipping an arm around Sam’s, but Dean can see in her eyes that a tasteless pile of rubbery fluff stuffed with grass isn’t on her list of top menu selections.

“Right.” Dean shakes his head. “Okay, we’re gonna make you a proper breakfast. It won’t exactly be a fry-up, but close.” 

She looks surprised. “You know what a full English breakfast is?”

“Sure do, but we ain’t got any of that blood sausage,” Nic does a whole body shiver, making him chuckle, “or baked beans.” Snatching a pan from the rack, he twirls it in his hand. “Coffee’s ready. Grab a cup and take a seat while the master works.”

At her very sweet request and a promise of a surprise afterward, Dean’s in the garage a couple of hours later, giving Nicole’s Jeep a tune-up. Music from his favorite radio station plays in the background, and he hums along to the Seger song, smiling as his thoughts wander again to the past couple of days. 

Although he initially resisted and was upset that his kitchen would be crowded with people, spending time with his found family had been good for his soul. Good food, great company, and even Sam’s boozy eggnog didn’t taste half-bad. He had fun learning how to make donuts, only had to break up one fight between Claire and Alex, and was only mildly annoyed when Garth hugged him goodbye, but something still felt…off.

Talking to Nic had lifted some of the weight he’d been carrying. Maybe she was right when she said that admitting aloud how he felt may be the first step to understanding it. Nic and Sam had seemingly slipped into the new rhythm of their lives with minimal difficulty. His baby brother has a girlfriend and a chance at a normal life. Something he always hoped would happen for Sam. While Sam's dorky lovestruck expression during breakfast will be great fodder to use later, it made him happy to see it. 

Nic has always been resilient. No matter how many times she gets knocked down, she manages to find a foothold that sets her off on a new course, usually dragging him along for the ride. He doesn't really mind. He'd literally follow her to Purgatory as long as they were together. But he'd always been comfortable in his own skin, sure of his place in the world, even if he sometimes hated where that was. Now he feels out of step, like he’s on a different playing field altogether, unable to find his footing to keep up with her. 

The song ends, and sadly, it seems even the classic rock station is not immune to playing a holiday tune now and then, and as he clips the housing closed over the new air filter, the chords of a melancholy ballad fill the air. Closing the vehicle’s hood, he quickly makes his way over to turn off the radio before the carol can trigger an even bigger wave of doubt about his future and thoroughly pull him under. He needs to get a grip on his emotions. If Sam can find some Christmas spirit, he should be able to, also. 

As if she has a tracking spell on him, Nic meets him at the doorway to the garage with a huge grin and a beer.

“Kind of early, isn’t it?” He’d been trying to cut back, no longer needing to drown out the nightmares and pain. It wasn’t that they had vanished entirely, but they weren’t a constant anymore.

“It’s after two,” she shrugs, “and you’re not driving anywhere.”

He leans in to kiss her, but her nose crinkles when his thumb traces her cheekbone, and she sniffs. “Eww.”

Dropping his hand, he pulls back, concerned, “What?” 

Grabbing his wrist, she brings his hand up to inspect it. Oil and grime are wedged beneath his nails and cover his cuticles. “Normally,” she runs a hand up his arm and pushes up on her toes to nip at his earlobe and purrs, “I wouldn’t mind getting down and dirty with you, but I need you to go take a shower and then come to the library.”

“I thought we didn’t have any plans.”

She’s gone with a laugh before he even registers she’s left, hollering over her shoulder, “Don’t take too long.”

Less than thirty minutes later, he walks into the library, showered, shaved, and hair still damp. Sitting on the table is a stack of boxes wrapped in plain brown paper adorned with a single green bow. Nic is nowhere in sight. Skirting the table to get a closer look, he finds a simple white tag with his name and frowns. 

If this is supposed to be a Secret Santa gift, it’s not much of a secret. He hadn’t even wanted to participate in the stupid game, but everyone had given him such a hard time that, under duress, he finally drew a name. He made it clear to everyone that whoever’s name was on the folded piece of paper would not be getting a present and insisted that he didn’t want a gift from whoever got his name. He didn’t need the added guilt of receiving a gift but not buying one. Fortunately, he’d drawn Nic’s name. At least she will understand why she hasn’t received a present once all the names are revealed.

Lifting the top package, he tests the weight of it, turning it over in his hand; it’s heavy. There’s not a lot of movement when he shakes it, and his curiosity finally gets the better of him. Tearing the paper away, he’s shocked by what’s revealed. If the image on the box is to be believed, it contains a digital camera, and he quickly opens the package to verify the contents. It is, indeed, a very expensive digital camera. Removing it from its inner wrapping, he opens the housing to find the battery already installed. Pressing the on button, the battery meter shows it's full, and he snaps a picture of Miracle lying on a cushion in the corner.

“It’s not a Secret Santa gift,” reading his mind—he tries to remember if he ever tested her for psychic abilities—she enters from the war room, “It’s not even a Christmas present. It’s simply a gift.”

“Good to know since it’s slightly over the $30 stipulated budget, and it’s not exactly a secret.” He holds up the tag containing her handwriting.

“You going to open the rest or just stare at ‘em?” She faces him across the table, rocking on her heels.

Suspicious of the reason for the gifts, he tears into the next one with cautious excitement. After opening the final box, he stares, stunned at the array of equipment laid out on the table—a wide angle, a standard, and a telephoto lens, a Speedlite flash, a filter kit, an extra battery and charger, several SD cards, a cleaning kit, a travel tripod, and a case to hold it all. It’s an amateur photographer’s wet dream come true.

“Why?” he breathes, placing the lens he’s been fiddling with back in its box.

“I want you to find him.”

“Find who? And what does all this-” Greeted with a teary-eyed smile, he inhales sharply. “Nico?”

“I want you to find the man I see every time I look at you.” The tremble in her voice is like a pickaxe chipping away at the ice encasing his heart. “The man that’s more than the labels forced upon him. The intrepid, courageous man who took down god to save a world where only a handful of people know what he sacrificed to ensure everyone lived. The ingenious man that created an EMF meter out of a Walkman. The man whose hands contain the strength to snap a phone in two but cradle my face in the gentlest of holds when he kisses me.”

She swipes a tear from her cheek, and he blinks away one of his own, swallowing down the lump forming in his throat as she strolls toward him.

“The intelligent, swift-thinking strategist who’s funny, mischievous, and kind. The man that fought through the darkness to shine a light and love on all that welcome it.”

Her hand is pressed over his heart, and he can’t contain the tear that slips down his cheek at the flood of emotion for the woman standing before him.

“The man with a heart bigger than Texas.”

Said heart is hammering like it’s going to crack open his ribs. He grips her shoulders and stutters, “I- I don’t know if I can.”

Heat radiates from her palm as she puts more weight behind it, “You can,” fingers curl into his shirt, as she thumbs away his tears with her other hand, “we can.” Winking with a cheeky grin, she adds, “I have a plan.”

A firestorm of hope. It’s the only way to describe her. His chest heaves, and he chokes out around a half-sob, half-laugh, “Of course, you do.” Tugging, he locks her in his embrace, resting his cheek on the top of her head, tears of gratitude seeping into her hair.

A couple of minutes pass, and she squirms against him. “Can’t… breath.”

Dean sniffs, chuckling as he loosens his hold. Immediately sliding her arms around his neck, she pulls him down into a hug of her own, whispering in his ear. “I love you so much. I just want you to see your potential and find a path that fulfills you.”

Taking a step back after giving her a quick squeeze, he scrubs a hand down his face and clears his throat, trying to regain some composure.”Okay. Let’s hear it.”

Nic squeals, clapping her hands as she bounces in place. He arches a brow in caution, “I said I’d listen. I didn’t agree to anything.”

“You’re right.” Bobbing her head, she uses the hem of her flannel to wipe her face, moving closer to the table. “I’ll lay it out for you. We’re taking a road trip, going on a quest, as it were.” Walking her fingers across the tabletop, she picks up the camera. “We’re going to pretend that we’re in an alternate universe. I’ve hired you as my photographer. We’ll be documenting the mundane to the extraordinary in our search,” bringing the viewfinder to her eye, she snaps a picture of him, “for the elusive enigma… Dean Winchester.”

“Seriously?” he grunts, and this time she arches a brow in warning. Raising his hands in surrender, he bows his head, “Continue.”

“Let me show you the world out there waiting for you. The one filled with beauty, hope, and light. The one that you rarely got to see. In return, I want you to show me-“

“Oh, I can show you the world, baby,” he snarks, wiggling his eyebrows at her, but she ignores the punny innuendo.

“-your perspective of the world.”

Bewilderedly gawking at her, he asks, “And how am I supposed to do that?” 

“Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to take at least twenty pictures per day.”

“TWENTY?” He breezes over the reference.

“It’s not that many, and hey, I don’t care if every picture you take is of a rock. At the end of the day, I want to see at least twenty images of whatever you find interesting. Whatever speaks to your heart or sparks joy.”

“So what, now you’re Marie K-“ The lip bite and snicker cut him off, and he shakes his head in amused disgust. “Nice setup.” The giggle bursts from her, and though he tries to keep it inside, a laugh rolls out from his chest in response.

“I’m sorry, I couldn’t help it. I was concerned after you ignored the whole Mission Impossible lead.” Setting the camera on the table, she takes one of his hands in hers. “Seriously, though, remember what I mentioned before? About making new memories? This is a way for us to do that: you, me, sun, fun, and relaxation. Let me show you what you sacrificed your life over and over again for. It’s time you enjoyed it.”

“I guess,” he huffs. “But-” he raps his knuckles on the table as he looks over to Miracle.

“But nothing. Sam and Stacey will take care of Miracle and hold down the fort.” At the mention of his name, the terrier mix lifts his head and barks, seemingly in agreement. “See, even he agrees,” she laughs. “C’mon,” she coaxes. “There are more than enough hunters to cover any cases that might pop up. We don’t have anything else going on. What do you say, handsome?  You, me, and the open road?”

“What if I say no?”

“Oh, did I forget to mention the pay? It’s good food, lots of alcohol, a road trip, and as a bonus, unlimited sex… with me.”

“Let’s go, gorgeous!”

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