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magics-neptunes-things · 4 months ago

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The City (One Love 10)

Hi guys :)

I haven't post since forever and I'm sorry. I started to work again and my brain wouldn't let me write. I didn't want to force me to write, so you had to wait a little bit.

Here is a new chapter for the serie "One Love" but you totally can read it without having read the others.

Also the title is because I was listening to Ed Sheeran while writing it.

Please enjoy ♥

As soon as they arrive in London, Lucy takes the lead about everything. She drags Ona through the airport to take their suitcases easily and find them quickly a cab to go to her apartment. The sight of it isn’t new for Ona, she already came here since Lucy lives here. Lucy never came back to Barcelona for now and she really looks to be able to do it soon.

But Ona has ten days of recovery offered by Barcelona, where Lucy doesn’t. She has training with Chelsea starting very soon and they both decided that Ona would come here to pass time with her girlfriend when she will have finished her training. They happened during the morning, that let them all the rest of the day to enjoy things together. And like that, Ona will be able to sleep in during the mornings.

Lucy laughs when Ona let herself fall on her stomach on the couch the second they enter the apartment, rolling her eyes playfully.

“You slept during almost all the flight and dozens of in the cab, Bonita. Aren’t you a little bit dramatic here?”

Ona grumbles something in Catalan for any answer, making Lucy’s smile wider. She loves to see the frame of the Spaniard in her apartment, even if it’s not ideal, it’s kind of remembered her the first days of their relationship. Ona coming discreetly in Barcelona and herself coming in Manchester. Less discreetly though, because she literally got caught on television while watching Ona playing with Manchester United.

Ona having only clean clothes in her suitcases, Lucy drags them to her bedroom before joining Ona on the couch. Sitting near her hips, she slowly strokes her hair. She was joking earlier, but she never seen her girlfriend as tired as she is right now.

“Would you like to sleep one hour before going to the restaurant? Or we can order in and go outside after if you don’t feel like going out” she proposes with consideration.

But Ona rolls as much as she can on her side, finishing with her back pressed against Lucy.

“No, I will have plenty of time to sleep when you’re not here. But would you mind if I take a shower before?”

“Not if I have the right to come with you” Lucy smirks back.

Several hours after, they are going out of the restaurant Lucy reserved for them. Ona has never been a big fan of the English gastronomy (apart from the Sunday Roast of her mother-in-law), but she has to admit that the meat pie she just ate was pretty amazing.

“Oh look, e-bikes” Ona points suddenly.

Lucy smiles softly, remembering how much Ona loves to use them near the beaches in Barcelona. Still, she wasn’t expecting the gaze full of hope from her girlfriend when she looks at her.

“Do you want to use them?” Lucy asks slowly.

“Yes?”

Ona was frowning, not understanding the surprise easily visible on her girlfriend’s face. They have made a lot of strolls with them in Barcelona and as far as she knows, Lucy loves it too.

“You just come out of weeks of training for the Olympics, and you want to ride a bike?” Lucy explains her point of view with a smile.

“Oh” Ona realizes, before smiling and shrugging. “Yes, if you don’t mind. I still need to stay in shape”

“You are very in shape, don’t worry” Lucy smirks cockily.

It makes Ona laughs, and she rolls her eyes before hitting Lucy playfully on her arm.

“Alright Lucy Bronze, get us two of those and we can flirt all you want while we pedal, yes?”

Being the one living here, Lucy takes the lead once again, taking Ona through London. Maybe not on the places full of tourists, even if they passed next the Tamise or other places like this. Ona takes advantage of their stroll to take so picture of her girlfriend. She even posts some of them when they are back home, Ona comfortably cuddling in Lucy’s arms.

“What are we doing tomorrow?” Ona yawns after having put her phone somewhere between two cushions.

“Well tomorrow morning I have training so you can sleep until I come to wake you up. Then I organized a creative activity, if you are up too.”

“What kind?” Ona asks with curiosity.

She seats a little more next to Lucy to have a better look at her. She never has been good with surprises, loving to know what will happen. She likes organizing them, though.

“You’ll see, Señorita Batlle. And while you are here, you will have a lot of surprises so you must learn to enjoy them”

Lucy giggles when she sees the pout on Ona’s face, who is however quickly erased when she kisses her.

“Let me take care of you, yes?” she whispers against her lips.

Ona hums, but she’s not sure about what anymore. She missed her girlfriend, but her girlfriend touch too and she might be more interested in Lucy than in the film in the TV.

Two days later, Lucy comes back home after training to find only silence. Yesterday, Ona was up when she came back but it looks like today it’s not the case. The living room is exactly like she let it before leaving this morning. She doesn’t mind though, and she happily take the direction of her bedroom.

She finds Ona dead asleep in her bed, her face hidden between her cushion and her messy hair. The sight makes her smile, and she use all of her discretion to crawls under the sheets without waking Ona.

The Spaniard still stirs when she feels Lucy passing her arms around her waist and kiss lovingly her jaw.

“Bon dia Bonita” Lucy whispers before kissing her again.

Ona mumbles something that Lucy doesn’t understand, she even wouldn’t be able to recognize the language Ona used. But she lets Ona turn in her arms and hides her face in her neck.

“Did you sleep well?” Lucy asks after several minutes.

“Better when you were here” Ona answers.

Lucy smiles one more time and strokes Ona’s hair softly, letting the younger one waking up slowly. Her gaze stops on the painted bears they made yesterday, standing proudly on the dresser in her room, next to one picture of her and Ona.

“What are we doing today?” Ona asks.

“Nice try” Lucy smirks before kissing her. “First you can go take a shower while I cook us something. Then we will go out”

“No, first cuddles” Ona decides.

Lucy obliges with pleasure, making the Spaniard laughs when she rolls on her, crushing her deliberately in the process.

“Lucy I can’t breathe” Ona managed to say still laughing, despite the attack of kisses that Lucy lays all over her face.

Lucy puts a last kiss on Ona’s nose with a noisy “Muah” before sitting on the bed. She feels her heart fluttered when she looks at her girlfriend, lying on her back in her white sheets with her hair spread all around her head.

“How can you be so beautiful?” Lucy sighs softly.

Ona rolls her eyes when Lucy strokes her cheek, but then Lucy slaps playfully her nose. They kiss for some minutes again, before Ona eventually gets out of the bed to go on the shower. Lucy takes advantage of it to make the bed and then go to the kitchen, making a brunch for both of them.

She pulls the bacon out of the pan when Ona joins her, getting on her tiptoes from behind to be able to kiss her neck. Lucy smiles before turning in her arms, not even mentioning the fact that Ona is literally wearing on of her shirt. To be fair, she’s actually wearing herself a white shirt who is at Ona, that Ona was wearing on a picture she posted on Instagram several days before.

“That smells good” Ona smiles, looking with at the food with appetite.

“With some luck it will taste good too”

Ona grabs the drink while Lucy takes their plate to eat on the balcony of the apartment. At London Lucy might have more trouble to be on it unless it’s during the Summer, but she wanted to have a balcony anyway. Lucy sits as close from Ona as possible, their chair glued to each other.

As always, the small talk is great, funny and interesting. After the breakfast they both clean the kitchen and the dishes before getting ready to leave the apartment. Ona still don’t know where they are going, but she follows happily Lucy to her car. Even if she almost sits on the wrong seat, the conductor being on the other side in England.

“How was training?” Ona asks during the trip.

“Pretty great. They made me answer some questions, I have to lie about one thing” she rolls her eyes.

“About what?”

“They asked me who is the last person I called. It was you obviously, but I answer my mom.”

Ona snorts at that, rolling her eyes before looking by the windows. They decided to be less secretive about their relationship, but she will probably answer the same thing if Barcelona ask her the same question in several days.

“You aren’t mad, are you?” Lucy asks nervously after realizing that Ona stayed silence after that.

“Of course not” Ona smiles softly, stroking Lucy’s neck with her fingers.

It makes Lucy shiver and Ona smiles. The Spaniard decides to continue to play with Lucy’s hair here while they start to talk again about something else. A little while after, they arrive in front of a building, and it would be hard for Ona not to understand what they will do.

“Golf?” she asks, arching an eyebrow. “I know we didn’t know each other at that time, but haven’t you seen videos of me playing golf before?”

“I did” Lucy chuckles before getting out of her car. “But I’m sure you will be great with a good instructor.”

Ona hums, not really believing it. But if playing golf makes Lucy happy, she will play golf. Ona grabs Lucy’s arm while they go to the reception, taking the reservation Lucy made several days before, when she prepared everything.

She lets Lucy talk with the woman behind the desk, looking with distraction at her, just to be sure that she won’t be hitting on the English woman. But she doesn’t and several minutes later they are going to one of the booths with thousands of balls and several golf clubs.

“Come on, show me what you can do” Lucy smirks.

Not being the one to take offense, Ona smiles and rolls her eyes once again before choosing a ball and a club. She then puts herself on position, looking the different targets on the green. Taking a big breath, she closes her eyes when the club hits the balls.

A metallic sound makes her understand that her ball didn’t go far, but Lucy’s laughs could have made her understand alone. When she turns in her girlfriend’s direction, the brunette was taking a picture of her.

“Stop making fun of me” Ona smiles. “Where’s my instructor anyway?”

“You are looking at her right now, Princesa” Lucy rolls her eyes while coming closer to Ona. “Like I was going to pay to watch someone putting their hands on you. Now, behave.”

Ona smiles, always amazed to see that her girlfriend might be jealous about her. She willingly let Lucy puts her in the position she wants, smirking when she feels almost all of Lucy’s front pressing against her back.

“Is it really professional, miss Bronze?” she teases.

“Mh, probably not” Lucy smirks before kissing Ona just behind her ear.

Ona smiles too, turning slightly her face to look at her. She could feel Lucy’s breath on her skin like this.

“Behave I said” Lucy smiles, turning softly Ona’s face on the right direction.

Ona smiles and let her girlfriend do once again. She listens with attention when Lucy gives her some advice about how to hold her club, trying to mimic her moves. She presses herself a little more against Lucy, unable to resist at her envy. Of course, Lucy feels it and she bites her neck softly, making Ona gasp.

“You’re such a tease” Lucy smiles against her skin.

“Not my fault if the instructor is hot as hell” Ona smirks.

Her smile gets wider when Lucy kisses her right where she had bite her, before releasing her. Lucy misses Ona’s body against her almost immediately, but they are in public, and she really wants Ona to be able to send this ball on the other side of London.

“Come on, make me proud”

Just to tease Lucy, Ona bows her ass a little more than necessary. She doesn’t have to look back to know that Lucy’s eyes are probably glued to it, before taking all of her concentration to hit the ball the right way. Lucy told her not to close her eyes so she lets them open and just like that she’s able to see that her ball fly way away than before.

“Vamos!”

Ona raises her fist with a big smile, before turning to Lucy, who smiles at her with a mix of pride and fun. The older one comes closer to Ona, careful to the club.

“Told you” Lucy smiles at Ona before kissing softly her cheek.

Ona hums happily before she hands out the club to Lucy who doesn’t hesitate before she takes it. And when Ona is fully allowed to check her girl out when she prepares herself to shoot, she tells herself that golf isn’t actually that bad.

“Lucy”

There is a moment of silence.

“Lucia”

Lucy groans and stirs in her bed, before rolling on Ona, preventing her from making the slightest gesture. But the Spaniard just laugh, stroking Lucy’s naked back with her fingers.

“You’re going to be late for training” Ona whispers.

“Don’t have training” Lucy grumbles, her head hidden in Ona’s hair and neck.

“You didn’t tell me” Ona frowns.

“Surprise. Now sleep.”

Almost two hours later, it’s Lucy who wakes Ona up with tender stroke in her face. She’s actually tracing her freckles together and kiss the corner of Ona’s mouth when she realizes that the Spaniard is awake.

“Hola Princesa. Time to wake up.”

Ona sighs and stirs in the sheets, and she wonder if she already felt so comfortable and warm.

“Why aren’t you naked anymore?” Ona frowns when she realizes.

“Because I went to take some pastries, couldn’t do it undress, could I?”

Ona groans possessively at that. It makes Lucy smiles, and she kisses her softly, her thumb still caressing her jaw softly.

“We will need to eat and drink on the car though, we have to leave in thirty minutes” she adds, looking at her watch.

“Where are we going?” Ona asks with interest.

“Somewhere where you will be able to relax entirely” Lucy answers, taking Ona’s hand to make her sit on the bed.

“I’m totally relax now, just like I was last n…”

Ona begins before Lucy puts her finger on her lips to makes her quiet.

“No talk about sex otherwise we will need to start again, and we don’t have time for that now”

She smiles in front of Ona smirks but still gets up to grab a sport bag in her cupboard and leave the room.

“Twenty-eight minutes, Bonita.”

Twenty-four minutes later, they are in Lucy’s car, Ona freshly showered even if Lucy told her that it wasn’t necessary. She still wanted to feel fresh and comfortable. She’s drinking her coffee, trying to guess where they are going. Lucy’s Spotify being wracked with Spanish songs, they have Rosalia singing in the background.

“When will we be able to see each other again, after that?” Lucy asks softly.

She wanted to let that question for later, not wanting to kill the mood of the day. But the question is still in her mind pretty much all the time.

“I don’t know” Ona sighs softly. “We have our games almost always the same days. I won’t be able to watch you play often…”

“Well at least it means that we will have two days free at the same time” Lucy shrugs.

She was right. Ona nods softly, trying to remember the planning of their games. It hasn’t been posted online officially, but the team already have it.

“I will come to Barcelona next time, if that’s ok for you?”

“Of course it is” Ona smiles. “I miss having you there”

Lucy smiles softly at that. She hasn’t left since a very long time, the season hasn’t even started yet. But she understands very much what Ona means. She loves London, but she would have preferred to stay in Barcelona. They badly couldn’t assure her what she needed so here she was, but she’s longing to live with Ona again.

They arrive soon after at the right place, Ona looking around with a little smile.

“A Spa?”

“A Spa Day for my very talented and very tired girlfriend, who needs to be taken care of” Lucy confirms before stopping the car.

“I’m already very well taken care of, thanks to you” Ona smiles.

Lucy smiles back and leans between the two seats to steal a kiss. Ona seems indeed very much relaxed and rested than when she arrived at London several days before. But it was in Lucy’s plans, and she doesn’t have training today so they will have all day to enjoy it together.

Lucy passes her arm around Ona’s shoulder to take her in the main building, taking their bathrobes and everything they will need during their time here. It was during the week so not a lot of people are here, which is pretty enjoyable.

They start with the hot swimming pool before going to the massage Lucy asked for. Then, both of their stomachs start to groan, and they decided to go to eat something in the restaurant of the place.

“Thanks for all you organized during my stay” Ona says, above her burrata salad.

“It was the least I can do, Bonita. You really need to rest, or you will end up injuring. I can say it now, but I really was concerned about you.”

“I know”

Ona sighs softly, playing with a piece of tomato and her fork. She didn’t say everything to Lucy because she knows that the older one was already worried. She didn’t want to worry her even more.

“The hardest was to be mentally tired” Ona adds softly without looking at her girlfriend. “I felt like we weren’t considered at all. I don’t understand why the staff wanted to try new things every time and not going for things we know would have worked.”

Lucy hums only. She has a lot of ideas about it, but it’s maybe better for now not to add fuel to the fire. Ona is out of it for now and Lucy really hopes that Montse Tome will leave soon for someone better.

“Maybe when you will stop playing, you can become Spain’s coach” Ona says suddenly.

Lucy almost chokes on her food.

“I’m pretty sure Leah would ask for my name to be erased from all the cups and wins we’ve won since I’ve played” Lucy rolls her eyes.

Ona smirks, thoughtfully chewing her food. She never really met Leah, the last time she saw her was on a pitch and it was when she did her ACL. And for the coaching, she was joking, of course. Lucy isn’t really interested in becoming a coach after her career, she knows it. Plus, she’s not sure that the coach is allowed to have a relationship with one of her players.

When they finish their meal, Lucy proposed to Ona to go for a jacuzzi. They have the possibility to have a private room with one in it, as long as one is still free. Luck seems to be on their side because they managed to find one who is empty. Lucy steel pouts when she sees that they have a view on the swimming pool.

“They were some of them with the view on the park” she explains.

But Ona doesn’t seem to mind, shrugging before taking her bathrobe off. A smile had been on her face all day, much for Lucy’s pleasure. Ona’s smile is definitively one of her weak spots.

Well, Ona is her weak spot, she thinks when she sees her girlfriend coming closer to her before passing her arms around her neck.

“It’s perfect like this. With you next to me, I have the most perfect view anyway”

Lucy can only smile too, kissing her girl softly. That day is perfect, but just like the entire stay of Ona. They both know they will need to say goodbye to each other in several days, but everything is perfect for now and they couldn’t ask for more.

#woso imagine #woso fanfics #ona batlle #ona batlle imagine #lucy bronze #ona batlle x lucy bronze #lucy and ona #lucy bronze imagine #lucy bronze x ona batlle

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nottswitch · 8 months ago

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london boy

am I in my lover era? probably, but am I ashamed? no, not really. but just a warning, I won't even try to commit to posting this often. literally just a burst of inspiration (and taylor swift).

london boy by taylor swift as inspiration sirius x muggle!reader warning: prolly nothing, it's just fluff wc: 2,2k

From your very childhood up to your late teens your parents really liked bringing you to London with them from time to time. It was a truly beautiful city to be a tourist in. You’d been there so often that you felt like some sort of an expert. You could recite the history of any major landmark, just point at, say, the Tower, and one could hear a whole lecture from you about the fortress, the prison, the ravens, all the good stuff. You got cocky at times, thinking you could easily become a tour guide. Your friends back in your hometown rolled their eyes every time you even mentioned London, and the level of your excitement grew every single day throughout the month before you finally moved there.

Turned out, London wasn’t so great to live in. At least that’s what you thought on your first day, when you paid thrice the price you expected to pay for the cab taking you from the airport to the hotel. Then, the hunt for a rental began. The hotel started to get expensive day by day and soon enough you really lost your spirits. You didn’t have enough money to pay for a room and a real estate agent, so you resorted to looking through tons and tons of newspapers, hoping that an advertisement of a one-bedroom would at some point catch your eye. It wasn’t working as well as you expected, so one gloomy rainy afternoon you found yourself just walking through a random neighbourhood looking at houses and thinking that cooking some hot soup on your own stove sounded really nice at the moment. You realized that your exterior was pretty miserable for someone who couldn’t hold in an excited shriek right after buying a ticket to London last month. As if to confirm your assumptions, a sudden laughter disrupted the cacophony of raindrops hitting the ground and wind howling between the branches of nearby trees.

Oh, god.

“You aren’t from ‘round here, right?”

A motorcycle rolled from behind you along the roadway. You continued on your way, thinking it was just some creep who noticed your vulnerable state and decided to, well, be a creep.

“Hey, hey, ma’am, you don’t have an umbrella and I do. Pretty sure I win.”

“Ma’am? Really?”

You stopped at last to see who had the audacity to just ride up to you like you were their longtime friend.

“Bet that’s what you think us Brits talk like, foreign girl.”

The rider took off his helmet and you saw what was probably the best sight you had a pleasure to witness in the entirety of London. The young man was truly divine: his dark hair barely reached his shoulders and was a bit messy from the helmet; he had a stubble that was too short to be called a beard yet, but it was getting there; when he smiled, you could see small dimples forming on his cheeks. You felt stupid staring at him like that but couldn’t help it at all. With his stunning looks, the obvious accent you immediately took notice of sounded even more charming.

“Alright, not a talker, I see.”

The man stood up from his vehicle, pulled out a kickstand so that it wouldn’t just roll down the street and walked up to you, pulling up the collar of his leather jacket to shield his face from the rain.

“You said you had an umbrella.”

Kind of stupid of you to say, but you couldn’t really make up anything else that wouldn’t give out your infatuation.

“Just like that, huh? Could at least ask my name, you know.”

He didn’t wait for your response, holding his hand out to you.

“Sirius.”

You shook his hand, although yours was already pretty numb from the cold, and introduced yourself as well. You had to say something at that point because you started to look weirder and weirder by the second.

“That’s… an interesting name.”

Oh, come on. This is all you have?

“Bit rude, darling. What did you think it was?”

“Like… Matthew?”

The man laughed, just like you heard him laughing minutes ago. He wasn’t taunting you, no, on the contrary – he was rather amused by your mild naivety.

“Oh shit, do I look like a Matthew? I’m gutted, I have to say.”

You couldn’t help chuckling at his words. The rain didn’t feel so bad anymore, now that you had someone to share it with.

“Hop on. I have to get you to a pub, or else you’ll turn into a bloody icicle.”

He helped you get on his bike and soon you were riding straight through the streets of London with your hands wrapped around Sirius’ body. You felt it was a wee bit inappropriate for someone you met, like, five minutes ago, but you couldn’t say you didn’t like it. What is more, you expected raindrops to become some small annoying mosquitoes who would relentlessly bite your face during the ride but surprisingly, it didn’t happen. It almost felt like you actually had an invisible umbrella above you, because you glanced at a sleeve of your coat and it had become much drier than it was before.

The pub Sirius took you to looked like one of those places you saw on TV when the setting was supposed to be the UK. Lots of wooden furniture around, lightbulbs hanging from the ceiling and emitting warm and rather dim light. In the corner you saw an old record player with a small TV on top of it. You saw it as a symbol of modernity overtaking the old school, which epitomized London itself, but decided not to voice your thoughts in order not to appear as a nerd.

“Fancy a beer?” Sirius asked, leading you to a large counter.

In your mind you would much prefer some tea to warm yourself up, but the stranger was already too kind for you to make any extra demands of him. So, you just nodded and let him have free reign over the type of beer for you.

“We come here with my mates sometimes,” Sirius explained, having made an order while you made yourself comfortable on a bar stool.

“That’s nice.” You felt a bit awkward and out of place, but Sirius didn’t seem like the shady type, so you felt more comfortable with him than you would have likely felt with anyone else. “Do you watch rugby here?” You gestured towards the TV.

“I mean, if it’s on…” Sirius tried but failed to hide a chuckle. “That’s what the rest of the world thinks of us English lads, huh? That we hang at pubs and watch rugby all day?”

“To be fair, you took me to a pub.” You felt slightly embarrassed but attempted not to show it.

“That much’s true.”

You took a small sip out of a glass mug of beer placed in front of you. It wasn’t that bad, to be honest – a bit too bitter for your personal taste, but you could see yourself finishing the whole thing.

“Is this a British thing, beer in the afternoon?” you asked, looking at a huge grandfather clock behind the bar and remembering that it was, in fact, only midday.

“I guess, but I’ve always thought of it as a me thing.”

You held your mug in front of your face so that Sirius wouldn’t notice a huge smile forming on your face. You found everything about him irresistibly attractive – his voice, his mannerisms, his whole presence was alluring in a very authentic kind of way. It was obvious that in front of you he wasn’t pretending, he was just being himself.

“How did you know I wasn’t from here?” You finally had the courage to ask the question that had been pestering you for a while.

“Oh, it’s obvious,” Sirius replied, taking a swig of his beer. “You can always tell, it’s just how us Londoners are wired.”

You couldn’t really retort.

“Are you on holiday, or…?” Sirius went silent, letting you fill in the gap.

“I moved here a week ago,” you explained, feeling a very annoyed expression taking over your face. “Been trying to find an apartment but no luck so far.”

Sirius frowned a bit, thinking about something.

“I reckon I could help you, darling,” he finally told you with a playful smirk on his face. “I’d have to ask you for something in return though.”

“Oh, sure, I’ll pay!”

And you were ready to, because you had heard from someone that word of mouth was actually the best way to find an apartment on a budget these days. It’s just that you didn’t have this mouth before.

Sirius just grinned in response.

“Hey, that’s on me.”

He stopped your hand as it was reaching into your purse to take out your wallet and pay for your beer.

“Really?”

“Well, I dragged you here, so it’s only fair.”

Afterwards you stepped out of the pub to see daylight again. Fortunately, you discovered that it stopped raining and the sky was of a much lighter gray than before. Sirius caught up to you and stretched out his arm, wrapping it around your shoulder. You didn’t mind at all but were still quite stunned because, well, a teenager in you woke up and started internally screaming from this handsome stranger’s closeness.

“A nice weather we have here, darling. Which is super convenient as I don’t prefer driving drunk.”

Sirius looked like someone who would gladly drive drunk, you thought, but instead simply asked about the bike.

“A friend will take it,” he gave you a rather nonchalant reply, already headed somewhere to your left, with your hand now in his. “Come on, London doesn’t wait.”

“What if I have plans?” you tried to retort but your feet still carried you after Sirius and you weren’t going to stop them.

“Really? You just moved here, can’t find a flat and you have plans? Don’t believe it.” Sirius didn’t leave any room for objections as he was absolutely right. “Come o-o-on, darling, I know you want it.”

And for god’s sake, you did.

—

“So… Is this the part of the day when we say goodbye?”

All of a sudden you felt a wave of sadness coming over you. This day turned out to be truly magical and the last thing you wished for was for it to end. Sirius showed you everything, and you meant everything. He had his ways around the city that you would never even think to take, but they worked wonders, almost like some kind of portals transporting you from one place to another (but of course, it was just Sirius). Soon you could take pride in having explored pretty much all the central boroughs from inside and out. You, once again, had a very tourist-y experience of eating fish and chips in Hyde Park, and Sirius showed you an amazing little Chinese place where you promptly had dinner. You couldn’t have been thankful enough when he told you he would take it upon himself to look for an apartment – sorry, a flat – for you, but when you tried to give him some cash, he adamantly refused, so you were left wondering what he meant when he said he would ask for something in return. But most of all, you couldn’t really understand why he would do anything for you at all.

“I guess it is…” you mumbled, wishing with your whole heart you were wrong. But it was late, the sun hid behind the horizon hours ago and your eyes became increasingly more and more itchy.

“Well, we’re meeting tomorrow, so… Not so bad, huh?”

Sirius didn’t seem tired in the slightest, so you decided to just fire away and ask the question that had been swirling in your mind for the whole day.

“Why are you doing all this?”

“What do you mean?” Sirius raised his eyebrow and, judging by the look on his face, thought you were making a joke.

“I mean, you saw me on the street and just… took me under your wing, I guess. I wouldn’t have all this experience without you, London boy. And this apartment thing… It’s too generous. You don’t have to.”

“I know I don’t have to.” Sirius had the widest smile on his face. It was captivating and you didn’t even notice how you started smiling yourself. “But I want to, that’s it, darling. I really, really want to.”

His hands kept yours warm while he spoke. You had a sudden urge to do something you might or might not have regretted in the future. You stepped closer to Sirius, getting up on your toes and pecking his cheek ever so slightly, as if you were afraid to scare him away. Then you leaned away, staring at his face with worry in your eyes. Sirius slowly ran his fingers along his skin, where your lips just were, like he couldn’t believe what happened. Then, much to your surprise, he got closer and before you could realize it, your lips met his. They were a bit chapped, but the pleasure they brought you couldn’t have possibly belonged on planet Earth.

“I fancy you, foreign girl.”

Sirius pulled back and looked deep into your eyes. His gaze was so tender that you understood that from now on, London wouldn’t be such a bad place to live.

my masterlist

#— witch’s works ☾#sirius black x reader #sirius black x fem!reader #sirius black x y/n #sirius black x you #sirius black fanfiction #sirius black imagine #the marauders #the marauders era

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jaegeraether · 1 year ago

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Sunsets and footballers (Part 44)

Lucy Bronze x Reader (39) & Jordan Nobbs x Leah Williamson Mini (3)

Masterlist (other parts here)

((**This is now my largest chapter at 7.5k. Enjoy!**))

YFN had instantly fallen asleep in her seat on the plane and woke to the jolt of the landing gear absorbing the impact on touchdown. She shook her fatigue away and took her phone off flight mode. 11:15am UK time. She gave a sigh of relief that the flight had been quicker than usual. She knew she’d been cutting it close with the flight time and instead of Ruby picking her up as planned, she’d told her to go to the stadium instead so she could get an Uber. It worked out well, because it meant she had time to speak to Jordan without feeling rude talking in front of Ruby.

She collected her bags and timed the Uber well, hopping in immediately as she exited the building. The stadium was thirty minutes from the airport so she’d be arriving just at kick off. She wasn't too concerned, though. Bridget and Emily were also in Manchester for a 1300 game between Man City and Brighton and were getting a bit more experience up onsite with Ruby at her game. She was lucky to have such good workmates.

She slid into the cab with a polite hello and found the only contact with a fish in it.

“Hey chicken! How was Barcelona?”

“Oh my god, Dory, it was amazing. Absolutely amazing. But I’m dead on my feet.”

Jordan laughed. “I’m guessing Lucy didn’t let you sleep much?”

“Don’t be cheeky. But you are correct.”

“How many hours are you running on?”

She counted. “I had two hours sleep on the plane so…about five hours?”

“What?!”

“I think…I remember we had a ‘midnight snack’ but that was about 4am so…”

“You’re unbelievable. Priorities, right?”

YFN chuckled. “I have no regrets beyond the struggle to walk-”

“Oh god! I don’t want to hear it.”

They both laughed together.

“How are you? Tell me everything.”

Jordan hummed and then proceeded to tell YFN about her dreams and the flowers and note that morning.

“Why didn’t you lead with that?!”

“I don't know. Good news before bad?”

“You think the flowers and note are bad news?”

“I don’t know. My head’s all over the place from the dreams. They were good and bad, but it’s just wrecked me emotionally.”

“I understand that…it’s not great for game day. Are you on your way there now?”

“Yeah, I’m on the bus. We have another hour and a half to go.”

“Well, you can’t resolve these emotions before the game because that would be a miracle. So how about you put a movie on and distract yourself? Don’t sleep, you won’t be able to.

“Yeah, I think I’ll do that to be fair…”

“Perfect. Have you messaged her?”

“No. I can’t do that today. Trying not to mess with my head before the game.”

“That’s all good, I was going to suggest maybe not responding until after the game.”

“You’re doing two games today, aren’t you?”

YFN’s mouth almost dropped open. “You have no idea how proud I am that you remembered that? I told you a while ago...”

“Oh, sorry, I should probably keep up my forgetfulness, right? Who are you again?”

YFN laughed. “I love forgetful Dory. She’s my favourite. Along with cuddly Dory. Football Dory though…jeez she’s terrifying.”

“I definitely will be today.”

“Get those emotions out, girl! Just don’t hurt anyone or get red carded please.”

“No promises.”

“As for your question, yep. I have the 1200 Man United versus West Ham game at Leigh and then the 1845 Arsenal versus Leicester game at King Power.”

“Oh that's right! Kyra…”

YFN had obviously told Jordan about Kyra. They both thought it was cute.

“Yes ma’am.”

“Our bus will drop us back at Villa Park about 7pm tonight…I can drive and meet you there?”

YFN could tell that Jordan needed comfort, and most of her friends were in London. She did the timing math in her head.

“You’d arrive about 8pm tonight with the traffic…how about you get a lift with my guy, Matt? He’s relocating to my game and then driving me back to Birmingham after it’s done.”

“Oh, yeah! That works out brilliant, that does. God, you’re so good at this logistics stuff. I just kick a ball around.”

YFN had a giggle at the visual image and messaged Matt. “And you look great doing it. Plus, you do more than that and you know it.”

“Yeah, yeah.”

YFN bit her lip as she thought a little. Jordan needed some love, and she knew just what to do. “What do you think about us asking Katie and Caitlin to stay the night? We’ll all finish up around 9pm in Leicester so they’ll have overnight accommodation. If I message them then they’ll have time for the team to cancel their room. They can come home with us.”

“Ohhh I didn’t think of that! See, this is why you’re the best.”

YFN grinned at the sound of genuine happiness in Jordan’s voice. She knew she missed them a lot.

She looked up and could see the stadium approaching in the distance. “I’m excited! Okay, I’m almost at the stadium. I’ll message the group.”

“Okay, love you!”

“Love you more. I’m so excited to see you tonight! Have a good game today, please. Smash it.”

They hung up happy and she opened a message from Matt that replied with an excited yes. Being a Villa supporter meant his dream just came true. YFN wondered how the car ride with them would be to Leicester and couldn’t help but be amused.

YFN then put a message in their little four-way group. Caitlin was usually the first to respond whether it be message or Instagram, and today was no exception. She’d answered an unequivocal yes for the both of them before she’d even stepped foot into the stadium.

The national anthems were playing just as she arrived and met up with her workmates. Bridget was running the boundary line, excitedly videoing the singing while Emily and Ruby were taking photos.

“Hey, Em.”

“YFN! Hi!” She gushed, wearing her purple and yellow Lumos hoodie. YFN was wearing Lucy’s hoodie so she opted for a beanie instead. “How was your flight?”

“I slept the entire trip,” she admitted with a chuckle.

Emily snapped a few shots of the starting line-ups.

“How are you and Bridget?”

“Oh, great! Yeah, we’re excited to be staying in Manchester tonight. Because we all have tomorrow off, we have plans to sight see and visit some family.”

They chatted for a little longer when YFN recognised the photographer from the last game she’d been to. The one who followed her home. She pretended to not notice him as she kept speaking to Emily and then made her way around the field to get a few good videos and say hi to Ruby and Bridget also. Bridget was running a mile a minute as she usually did, and Ruby mentioned that she had a date with Matt the next day. Ruby also ran a mile a minute, just with her mouth rather than her legs like Bridget. The whistle blew.

“Oh are those two already leaving already?” She asked rhetorically as Bridget and Emily waved on the way out. “Aw I didn’t say bye! Anyways, Matt said he’d take me on a date but I don’t know where-” she snapped a few photos and then cringed at the tackle she’d just captured, “-and I know it’s going to be amazing because we’ve been talking for a while now and…well not a while but since we all met and we were first partnered up-” she jogged further up the field to take another and came back when she was satisfied, “-and we’ve both been talking about supervising this next group of people coming in and we’re so excited for them to join us-” she took photos while YFN pulled her phone out to get a good Instagram video of Man United’s goal as they were both standing just a few metres from the West Ham goal. Goal number one, just three minutes in. YFN uploaded the video straight to their social media with an update on the score, “-and I just think it’s going to be amazing to have so many people with us. Is that guy staring at us?”

YFN turned to the photographer who’d been following her around the boundary, more focussed on her than the game.

“Yeah…just ignore him. He won’t hurt us.” She said, repeating what Catherine had said to her. Phone still on video mode in her hand, she pressed record but before she could lift her arm up to video him, they were interrupted.

“Now, now, physical violence isn’t my thing.” The voice teased from behind them.

YFN didn’t even have to turn, but she did out of polite habit as Mark stepped next to her, his eyes focussed on the game. She kept her phone on record and down near her body, but angling the mic towards him.

“Mark.”

“YFN. I hear you had a lovely trip up to Edinburgh to meet your…controversial leader.”

Ruby frowned, not understanding.

“He’s just teasing,” she assured. “Could you give us a minute?”

Ruby nodded and headed back up the field.

“So none of them know then?”

“What could you possibly be referring to, Mark?”

“Joanne.” He almost hissed. “That heartless woman.”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

“Well let me be clear, then. I know your boss. She took something from me, so I’m going to tear her whole fucking business down.”

“Which business would that be?”

“The only one not protected by a board. Lumos. Her baby that she’s trying so desperately to hide. And you know exactly how I’m going to start?”

“By getting a photographer to follow me?”

He gave a grin that sent shivers down her spine. “Something along those lines.”

He handed her a large yellow envelope. Against her better judgement, she took it and looked inside. She found several printed photos of herself and Lucy kissing at the airport. The photos weren’t the best quality, they looked like they’d been taken on a phone, but still…it was disturbing.

She turned her attention back to the game as if she were unbothered. “Congratulations. You gave me photos of my girlfriend and I. You do realise that we are public? We have nothing to hide.”

“You don’t think that someone in your position dating one of the most famous footballers of all time is a conflict of interest? Let me give you some advice…people will care. Whoever Joanne has investing in her company will. And this is just the start. I’ll get more and more dirt on not just you, but your workmates also. I’ll drag you all into the fucking ground.”

She sharply breathed in. “You want to ruin a good thing for a little rivalry?”

“A good thing?” He scoffed. “Nobody wants to watch women play. Look around you. The stands are only filled with friends and family. As for everyone who works at Lumos…” He shrugged. “Collateral.”

YFN let herself look at him. He was determined and deadly serious.

“See that photographer? Get used to seeing him around. As for Joe…tell her I’m going to tear down her company before it even begins.”

It was a dominant display by Manchester United who ended up winning 5-0 with five different goal scorers. YFN felt for West Ham who she’d grown a soft spot for since her visit, and especially felt empathetic for their Captain, Mackenzie Arnold, a fellow Australian, as she was the goalkeeper. She couldn’t imagine how hard it must have been mentally after a game like that. You’d feel like it was all your fault while having to be the one to pull the team together.

A few of the players wandered over to her after the match, one being Mackenzie. She gave her a hug and surprisingly agreed to an interview. She interviewed her alongside Mary Earps, letting the two talk business. Mary didn’t exactly have a quiet game, she’d had shots that she’d saved and they both bantered about that, with YFN steering the questions when and where she wanted. The fact that they both pointed out the brilliance in several different moments of each teams and gushed over not just their team but the opposite was the exact reason she’d fallen in love with women’s football. After those two, she interviewed Kirsty Smith and Riko Ueki with Ella Toone and Lucia Garcia. The dynamics of who she put together were interesting and got the results she wanted. She felt like she was Graham Norton putting interesting guests on and leading them here and there with questions, making sure they each felt acknowledged and appreciated for their time and their skill on the pitch.

They finished up around 2:30pm and stopped for a late lunch and some quick editing and posts before they started their two-and-a-half-hour drive to Leicester for their next game. It was only early evening, and YFN could already feel herself getting tired.

As they got into the car, Ruby noted that and told her to get some sleep. She had no idea that Ruby could be quiet for long enough and was pleasantly surprised.

Just before she went to sleep, she sent the video recording of Mark’s voice to Catherine who she knew was busy with few royal duties, and then she fell asleep just after she put her phone on charge.

YFN woke to the loud sound of her phone ringing and she jumped, her face feeling half numb from the window. The car was stopped and she looked outside to Ruby who’d noticed her wake and gave her a thumbs up from the fuel bowser. She gave one back and answered the phone without checking the caller ID.

“YFN! Are you okay?!”

She recognised the voice immediately. “Cath- I mean. Joe? Wow, you really did a great job of sounding not yourself before we met.”

Catherine gave a light chuckle. “One of my secret talents. I listened to your video. Did he threaten you?”

“Not physically, just what you heard on the video.”

“He’s absolutely insistent and much more of a pain than I’d expected.” She sounded annoyed and that was amusing to YFN as she was always painted as the perfect Princess. “I’m so sorry. I spoke to Joe and even she is surprised. He will not hurt you. If you feel unsafe at all, I will hire security.”

“That’s okay, I think we’re okay for now. He seems to be all bark at the moment..”

“He is, I assure you. Also, there is no conflict of interest here. I’m aware of your relationship. We are not even covering her games yet and when we do, it is absolutely not a conflict of interest. The man doesn’t know what he’s talking about. I know you, I chose you for a reason and your judgement, and your actions won’t be compromised by your relationship. Not only that, but there’s nothing in which to base these allegations on just yet. I understand the implications that may occur with you interviewing her and potentially being seen as biased, but I’ve seen your work, I’ve seen you interview friends and colleagues without that bias. I chose carefully.” She sighed. “My plan was for us to build your reputation in the field so high it would surpass any of these allegations before they even occurred.”

“I appreciate the support, and I promise that anything to do with Lucy or her team against another team will not be an issue. I want everyone and every team to be represented, regardless of if they’re against her or not.”

“Perfect. We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it, I think. In the meantime, you don’t need to hide your relationship. I’d never ask or expect that of you.”

“Thank you…also I’m assuming part of your security check on us is that you look for anything controversial which may be used against us like this?”

She hesitated. “Yes. I don’t like it, but we need to protect ourselves and the business from any potential threats…”

“I understand, and I agree.” Ruby hopped back into the car then with a grin. “You have my support…Joe.”

Catherine took the hint. “He won’t find anything controversial on the other employees because there is nothing. We just need to stay a tight knit group and continue our jobs.”

“Copy that, will do. Would you like me to send out a group memo about him?”

Ruby started to drive again.

“Yes, absolutely. If you don’t mind, I’ll write it and you send it?”

“Perfect, that saves me the work.”

“Lastly, the office won’t be ready tomorrow.”

“Oh?” Her interest peaked at that. She could be with Lucy on her day off. Jonatan had been giving her more days off with her knee. She only had to train four days this week, Tuesday to Friday.

“It’s all related. Mark somehow managed to talk to the local council…anyways I’m sorting it. It’ll be ready by Wednesday, I promise you.”

“Okay. That’s perfectly fine. I’ll meet up with the real estate agent and then the original ten of us will settle in and prep for the new group to arrive.”

“I thought it would be best to start the new group on Thursday instead because of the timing with the office date moving, but I wanted to check with you first to make sure you weren’t losing too much preparation time with them for the next round?”

YFN thought about it a little. Their first game was Saturday, and it was the only one. Catherine had gotten permission for ten employees at that game which allowed her to send two original crew with a full new crew to train. “I think Thursday will work. It’ll give us two full days to cover everything which is enough, and for eight of them, they’ll get experience on Saturday at Stamford Bridge. If I feel we need more, I’ll organise Saturday with the others not at the game to prep more.”

“Agreed! We think very much alike, you know.” It was a compliment that made her blush.

Catherine asked if she had any more questions before the call ended. She wasn’t surprised it wasn’t a long conversation, as she knew she’d been busy all day with regular duties and then Mark’s drama in the background. She couldn’t help but think about the possibility of booking a flight to Barcelona to spend the next two days with Lucy, as she knew she had the next day off. She could explore Barcelona with Narla and do a bit of work on the Tuesday while Lucy was training… She bit her lip and shook her head. Jordan needed her. Jordan was her priority. Thinking of, she looked up Jordan’s game which was almost finished. It had been fairly even all game and Jordan had been subbed on in the 65th minute, having a goal attempt in the 66th minute. YFN smiled as she watched Jordan running around, looking frustrated which was so opposite to her everyday self. Aston Villa were up 1-0 and she watched while Ruby listened to the end of the game. Multiple fouls were made by both teams. Aston Villa scored a second goal. A foul by Jordan at the 90 minute mark. And then it was over. Jordan had only played 30 minutes, but she’d made an impact. YFN sent Jordan a message saying how proud she was of her.

They arrived in Leicester around 5:45pm and stopped at a local café for another snack and a drink before the game. Being too early at the stadium meant boredom. They made sure to arrive around 6:15pm and set their equipment up, capturing the players during warm up. The Leicester players exited first to warm up and a few came over to chat. Luck have it, Courtney was one of them. Australians tended to flock together outside of Australia, she realised. YFN asked if she’d do an interview after the game and she agreed for the price of a hoodie. She liked Courtney and could see why Kyra did too. They were both cheeky.

“Hey stranger.”

YFN turned to see Leah’s smile as she stepped next to her. She was alone and not in kit, not quite ready to play after her ACL.

“Leah!” She smiled, pulling her into a hug. She liked Leah, regardless of her issues with Jordan, and she’d previously spoken to Jordan about their little growing friendship. She was okay with it, of course, otherwise YFN wouldn’t have been so forward. “How are you?”

“Oh mate, desperate to get onto that field, I’m telling ya.” She looked longingly at the pitch and then back to YFN. “I watched your interviews. They’re great! I don’t know why anyone hasn’t interviewed like that before.”

“The ones from last week?”

“Yeah and this morning. I loved it, honestly. I’ll be happy to do interviews anytime with you, just let me know.”

“That’s just given me an idea…” She hummed as she thought.

“Taking me up on the offer already?” She laughed.

“Actually I’ve been trying to work out different segments and ideas that would make us stand out from other companies….you’re not playing today. There are always players who are not playing but watching their teams. So it might be a good idea to get players willing to on the sidelines with us to interview and to film some of the snippets we upload with their own perspective and jokes and insight. Sort of like when you’re excitedly screaming motivation at the girls from the bench, but this time they’d be in snippets for our social media. It’ll promote the team and show just how supportive all of the players are with each other. Plus, I think it'd be hilarious.”

“Sort of like when they mic up the cricket players?”

“EXACTLY.”

“Put me in, coach. I love the sound of that. Plus, if it mucks up, you can just blame me.”

“You are 100% my scapegoat if it goes bad.” She laughed. “You’d be willing to today?”

She shrugged. “I have nothing else going on and I’m used to the camera so why not.”

“Perfect! Yeah, oh that’s so exciting-” She stopped and bit her lip as she thought of Jordan.

“What is it?”

“Um…maybe not today? Maybe next game?”

The frustrating thing was that she didn’t know yet if she’d even be at Arsenal’s next game. It depended on the roster.

“YFN, just tell me.”

“So…hm…here’s the thing…”

“Please don’t tell me this is about Jordan?” She asked, a little upset. “I was hoping that wouldn’t affect our relationship…”

“It won’t! Dory’s fine with us being friends. It’s just…”

“Spit it out, mate.”

“She’s going to be here in under an hour.”

She swore Leah paled. She definitely froze. “Oh.”

“Yeah…so she’ll already be with me on the sidelines for company.”

“She just finished a game…” she looked at her watch. “…so if she’s coming here I guess it’s to talk about us?”

“Leah…”

“She told you about this morning?”

“Yes.”

“Okay.” She groaned and ran her hand through her hair. “Look, I don’t know your opinion on everything and I don’t want to drag you into it all, but I promise you I just want the best for Jordan.”

“And the best for Jordan is you?”

Leah held her eye contact. “Yes. Just…I know I don’t have the right to ask but I will. Can you please maybe tell Jordan it wouldn’t be such a bad thing to go with me this Friday night to the awards? I want to win her back, to be there for her but I can’t without opportunity to actually be around her.”

“I won’t convince her to do something she doesn’t want to…”

“I wouldn’t expect you to. Just…advocate for me? You don’t have to push it. Just…please?”

“I’ll have a talk to her,” she murmured.

“CHICKEN!”

The Arsenal players were headed out for their warm up and most were headed her way led by the Irishwoman who was being overtaken by a smiley, wavy Kyra.

“Thank you, I really appreciate it. Also, I can still do that thing with you, I can be over the other side away from Jordan if she doesn’t want me near.”

“Thanks Leah, I’ll ask her about it when she gets here,” she replied with a smile.

“Ask who about what?!” Kyra asked as she landed on YFN’s back. YFN’s hands immediately caught her legs.

“Oof. You do realise I’m small, right?”

“Yeah, but I knew you’d catch me. When’s Nobbs here?”

A few of the Arsenal girls looked awkward because Leah was there. “It’s okay…” she assured them. “She’ll be here during the first half.”

“Okaaaaay.”

“Oh, also Kyra invited herself tonight.” Caitlin said as she wrestled Kyra off of YFN so she and Katie could give her a hug.

“Tonight? Where was our invite?” Beth asked.

YFN grinned sheepishly. “Our apartment isn’t big enough for the entire Arsenal squad…”

“I’m just joking, this one wants an early sleep anyways,” she said as she nudged Viv who looked unimpressed as usual.

“Aw what a granny!” Kyra teased.

YFN couldn’t help but laugh at the look on Viv’s face. Kyra giggled at her joke, ducking away from Caitlin’s motherly swat to the back of the head when a blue shirt appeared amongst the red and Kyra stilled.

“Hey…”

“Courtney!” YFN replied, making sure she didn’t feel left out. “Hey!”

Courtney looked around, her eyes finding Kyra and then tearing them away pretending she hadn’t looked at her. “Just letting you know Sam and Sophie are both good for the interview after the game. Do you know who it’ll be with?”

“Awesome! Yeah, I was hoping Beth and Frida would be up for it…”

“Me? Yes please! Not sure if I’ll be subbed on though,” Beth said eagerly.

Viv rolled her eyes. “She’ll be subbed on.”

“FRIDA!” Katie yelled.

“FRIDA!!” Beth yelled shortly after. Viv covered her ears and YFN chuckled at that.

The blonde spun around and jogged over. “Yes?”

Frida Maanum was a Norwegian midfielder who’d been with Arsenal since 2021. She was rarely chosen to be interviewed and softly spoken, so YFN thought it’d be great to involve her and help her confidence out with Beth who she could always rely on to talk if she didn’t.

“Want to do an interview with me after the game? YFN wants to know.”

Frida looked over at YFN with a polite hello wave. “It’s going to be with Sam Tierney and Sophie Howard from Leicester. You can absolutely say no if you want.”

“You want me?” She sounded surprised.

“Of course she wants ya, you’re amazin’.” Katie said with a playful grab of her shoulder.

“O…okay. Yeah.” She smiled at YFN which made the Australian feel good for asking.

“Aw, I’ll look after you mate! No need to be nervous!” Beth said loudly, extending an arm around her shoulder.

“So…Beth and Frida,” YFN said to Courtney with a smile. “And then you and Kyra. Is that okay Kyra?”

“Yeah that’s cool.” Kyra said, suddenly quiet.

Courtney’s eyes widened hearing that she’d be interviewed with Kyra. YFN knew it was sneaky of her but it was an opportunity for Courtney to reject the idea before she surprised her with her ex. Not that they were ever public knowledge.

“Okay. I’ll see you after the game.” She said, directed straight at YFN but she knew it was more for Kyra from the tone of it.

Caitlin and YFN shared a sheepish look.

“Come on girls, Jonas is about to kick our asses. Let’s get warmin’ up!” Katie ordered.

“If you see me shouting from the sidelines, it’s because I’m mic’d up!” Leah warned them and received some amused looks in return.

“You’d better not be focusin’ on my ass.” Katie teased.

Caitlin messed up Kyra’s hair. “You’d better be focusing on this one’s debut!”

They all jogged off and Leah turned to YFN.

“Okay boss, where do you want me?”

Jordan and Matt arrived just after 7pm, both with wide grins. Matt because he’d just spent a car ride with Jordan and Jordan because of YFN.

“Dory! Come here!” She took her friend in a hug big enough to lift the footballer off the ground and a few Arsenal fans spotted Jordan and shouted their love for her as she did so.

“I missed you.” She mumbled into Lucy’s hoodie.

“It’s been a day. Needy, hm?”

“I’m always needy.” Jordan grumbled as she put her down.

“I missed you too.” YFN chuckled before turning to Matt. “You look excited, mate.”

He was still grinning ear to ear and nodded.

“I think I tired him out with all the talking, to be fair.”

“I’m glad you two got on for the drive then. Matt, are you okay taking a few of us back to Birmingham tonight? If not, I can ask Ruby…”

“Yes!” He almost shouted and then cleared his throat. “Um, yes, of course. Who..?

“Uh Dory, Katie, Caitlin, Kyra and myself. Oh actually that won’t work… Ruby will have to take some of us anyways… maybe those three and I’ll ask Ruby if she can take Kyra and I.”

“Done.”

“How was the game?”

“Yeah, great. Noel and I got some great footage. A few of the girls were asking about interviews but I said we’d start next week.”

“Next week hopefully… and congrats on Aston Villa’s first win for the season?!”

“Yeah!” Jordan grinned. “I wasn’t on for long but I think I did alright.”

Loud noises from the crowd turned their attention to Leicester running towards goal. The ball was pushed out by Lotte for a corner.

“I’ll go record that.” Matt said as he ran towards the goal up the side of the pitch. Jordan spotted Leah behind the goal then.

“Leah…?”

“You had to have expected her to be here,” YFN teased.

“Well yeah but…is she recording with a phone?”

“I have her mic’d up for some footage. Trying something new out and she’s helping.”

Jordan frowned but her eyes remained on her, mixed emotions in her eyes.

The crowd went wild as Leicester scored from their corner. Jordan swore. The game reset.

“She really wants you to go with her on Friday..”

Jordan’s eyes flicked up to meet hers. “She said that? What else did she say?”

“Nothing you don’t already know… that she wants the best for you, she wants to win you back, and she wants an opportunity to do so.”

Jordan groaned. “I can’t. We rarely went to events together before. Now she wants to show me off to the world like I’m hers when I’m not?”

“I think she just wants a night with you, Jords…”

“Nope. No way. Unless she has another plus one and you come to chaperone us.”

YFN tilted her head. It wasn’t football but… “I could get an invite?”

Jordan spun back around. “You could?”

“My boss can 100% get me a ticket. Now, did you mean it?”

“I mean…” she looked over at Leah. “If you’re going, I will.”

“And is this really what you want?”

Jordan got a little frustrated and pouted, trying to think. She was a bundle of confused emotions and the dreams wouldn’t have helped. YFN put her arm around her and pulled her close.

“What do you think?”

“I think whatever this is, you need to resolve it. The best way to do that is communication. I think you should go. Sooner or later it’s going to be clear to you if you do or don’t want to have her back in your life.”

Leah looked over at the pair, her and Jordan looking at each other. She nodded. “I’ll go.”

“You’re sure?”

“I think I wanted to, I just didn’t want to admit it. Plus, you’ll be there now so it’ll be less awkward.” She grinned up at her.

YFN rolled her eyes and messaged ‘Joe’. Just as she finished the message, Leicester was surging forward, forward, forward, and tucked away their second goal. Two goals in two minutes. A terrible start for Arsenal.

Jordan settled next to YFN, following her and her camera around, watching the game intently. She always wanted the best for Arsenal. They had more of a catch up in between photos that she’d changed to as Matt was now doing the videography. YFN didn’t miss Leah off and on staring across at them just as longingly as she stared at the pitch she missed. Jordan and YFN gradually moved closer to Leah through that first half, though Leah ducked away to the change rooms for half time with her girls.

While it was half time, Ruby, Matt and YFN on worked on their footage while they talked.

“New office tomorrow?!” Matt asked excitedly.

“Oh…no. That’s been delayed until Wednesday. Waiting on approvals. New group are now starting Thursday.”

“You’re not going to Barcelona?” Jordan asked. “Doesn’t Lucy have tomorrow off?”

“You spoke with her?”

“Yeah she messaged me. I assumed you suggested it,” she laughed, “she’s terrible at messaging.”

“Not with me.” YFN winked. “Also that was all her, I promise.”

Jordan rolled her eyes and nudged her almost off her chair. “She misses you.”

“I was there this morning…”

“You miss her too.”

“Dory…” She groaned.

“No.” She said, putting her hand on the camera YFN was playing with which made her look up at her. Ruby and Matt shifted a little nervously as they could do nothing but listen. Jordan looked serious. “Don’t you dare stay here tonight just for me. You barely get any time with her as it is. She’s my friend too, and I like to see her happy. And you happy. And you’re both never as happy as when you’re together.” YFN opened her mouth to argue but Jordan continued. “Let me live vicariously through you. You’ve already done enough, I have Katie and Caitlin and Kyra tonight! They need a bed.”

“You’re kicking me out of our apartment?” YFN laughed.

“Only if you can find a flight.”

She put her camera down and took Jordan into a warm, long hug, mumbling into her. “I love you, Dory. You know that? If we’re both single in five years, I’m going to propose.”

Jordan laughed but they were both emotional. They just wanted the best for each other. “Okay but Blu will be ring-bearer.”

YFN laughed back into her and sat back, wiping tears away that she didn’t even know had formed.

“You’re putting Kyra on the couch?”

“I’ll let her share my bed if she shuts up.”

“She’s only small, she’ll be asleep before you all finish dinner. She tends to tire herself out fast, the little baby.”

“Little baby,” Jordan mimicked adoringly. “Now look for flights. I’ll message Lucy.”

“Or…how about we make it a surprise?”

“I love it! If she thinks you’re robbing her and knocks you out though, that’s not on me.”

She did wonder what Lucy’s reaction would be. She found a flight from Birmingham to Barcelona at 11pm.

“Won’t you need her to unlock the door?”

“I have keys…”

“You two are adorable.”

“I found an 11pm flight from Birmingham…”

“Do you think you’ll make that?!” Ruby asked. “I’m happy to take you…”

“That…sort of works out perfect because then the girls will all fit in Matt’s car. Um…the game finishes at 8:30pm. Interviews until 9pm. Arrive at the airport around 10pm. Cutting it close for international but it’s a late flight and nobody will be there… I think we can make it?” She shrugged and booked the flight anyways. If she didn’t make it, it wasn’t meant to be.

Jordan grinned. “Tell her to thank me when you get there.”

“Honestly, I’m probably going to be passed out from fatigue all day and not even get the chance.”

Her phone buzzed. It was the flight confirmation.

“Are you sure?” She asked Jordan. Sure, she’d already booked the flight, but it was cheap and she didn’t care. She wanted Jordan to be okay.

Jordan grabbed her around the shoulders and smiled. “I promise it’s okay. You’ve really cheered me up today and helped with my Friday night decision. Plus, I have the girls tonight. We both know you’ll just pass out anyways.”

“How dare you…” she laughed as the crowd began cheering loudly as the players re-entered the field. Ruby and Matt got to work. She stood to do the same when her phone buzzed again.

Joe: Done, they sent us through two invitations. Check your emails. Enjoy!

She grinned at the message and then at Jordan.

“What?” She handed her phone over and Jordan took it, an ecstatic look crossing her face. “Yes mate!”

She took her phone back and pocketed it, holding her camera up to take photos of the players as they ran out.

“One condition.”

“Anything.”

She jerked her head towards Leah who was wandering over to the pair. “You tell her.”

Jordan groaned. “Okay but at the end of the night. She can sweat until then.”

YFN chuckled at that.

Starting the second half 2-0 against them meant Arsenal had to push deep. And they did. Arsenal kicked six goals in the second half. Their first came at a hesitation from Courtney which YFN felt terrible for. She was next to Leah when that happened who filmed a mic’d up scream of joy from behind the Leicester goal as the shot went in. Slowly Jordan gravitated towards Leah more during the match, Leah managing to let her come at her own pace. The rest of the match was an absolute riot. Caitlin with an assist and a goal, Katie with an assist, and Kyra with multiple attempts at goal. She was shocked when she saw Courtney take Kyra down in the 83rd minute and wondered just how much of the history between them she didn’t know. The game ended 2-6 Arsenal. A complete second half dominance that had Leah screaming with joy on the sidelines. It turned out to be the perfect day to test the mic’d up segment, as she posted the live updates with video’s Leah had taken of her yelling at the girls running towards goal and screaming, turning the camera around on herself to show her celebrating. It was great content.

Regardless of the outcome, the Leicester players still came over for their interviews. First she had Sam, Sophie, Frida and Beth who actually did get some game time and almost a first goal since she’d come back from her ACL tear. Beth was the loudest, of course, and helped Frida to open up a bit. Frida had some back and forth with the Leicester girls talking about some of the plays including Sam’s goal. Overall, she was happy with the results of the interview, and how much the girls had come out of their shells.

Next was her interview with Courtney and Kyra who seemed equally nervous next to each other. They knew each other well though. YFN waited to sense the overall mood before she allowed herself to go in with some cheeky questions about Courtney’s tackle on Kyra, and Kyra’s debut. Her goal was to get them to start teasing each other, and it worked. At first, they didn’t want to address each other, and after a few comments here and there, it was more them talking and throwing cheeky comments to each other, and YFN could almost sit back and enjoy watching the show. She had to steer it a few times of course, both were young, but the tension between the two was obvious. For the sake of the viewers and their privacy, YFN made sure to make it known to the camera that they were teammates and brought up that they went to school together as justification which started a whole other line of questioning about their start in football.

Only when she was satisfied that she’d helped them break whatever awkwardness they’d previously had, did she end the interview, but not before she told Kyra how proud she was of her on camera for her debut. Courtney gave her a proud shove for that too.

Being Australians, and women, they all hugged their goodbyes, Kyra whispering a thanks into her ear. As they were packing up, she could see them still chatting as Courtney was being called away. She gave Kyra her phone and she typed into it what YFN assumed was her number. Courtney gave an awkward wave, obviously not knowing whether a hug was appropriate, and ran into the change rooms. Kyra turned to YFN with a grin and a little fist pump. It was adorable.

She looked past Kyra to where Leah and Jordan were standing, Jordan telling her she’d go on Friday. Leah’s expression flashed excitement before she contained it, and then it went a little shy as she pretended to be calm about it. They didn’t speak for long, just enough for Jordan to agree before she wandered off with Leah’s eyes following her longingly. She watched for a while until she met YFN’s eye and blushed, having been caught. She mouthed a ‘thank you’ to which she gave a smile in return.

“We really need to go.” Ruby stressed. She looked at the time and groaned. She only had time for quick goodbyes with everyone and a threat to Katie and Caitlin to not have sex in her bed. Katie seemed to enjoy the idea of the threat, to be honest, and that terrified her.

She rushed through security as quickly as possible and was the last person to board the flight, sweating and grateful she’d made it, though cursing herself for having to stay longer just to make sure Kyra and Courtney were good. As with her morning flight, she passed out immediately and wished she had a chance for a shower before seeing Lucy. Instead of a shower, she tidied herself up in the bathroom at the Barcelona airport when she touched down, changing her clothes and washing away the day. She brushed her teeth and did her nightly makeup routine, ignoring some funny looks. She sure as hell wasn’t going to let her skin suffer more than it already was with the change in weather between the UK and Spain.

Her Uber dropped her off at just before 3am and for some reason she was nervous, jiggling the keys Lucy had given her in her hands and playing with the little flags. At the front door she took a deep breath in and unlocked the door, entering as quietly as possible so as to not wake Lucy or Narla. She kicked off her shoes and left her suitcase in the entrance, not wanting to risk the wheels waking them. The smell as she walked into the house was home. Vanilla and bitter orange, and whatever the hell Lucy had been cooking for dinner. She swore she could even smell the big breakfast they’d had that morning. She looked at the trophy Lucy still had out and smiled, putting her phone on charge next to it before tip-toeing her way into the bedroom.

Lucy was quite literally dead asleep. She was on her back facing YFN’s side of the bed, one hand touching the pillow YFN had been sleeping on the night before. She was beautiful. She loved seeing her so vulnerable and herself. Her dark hair was spread out over the pillow, another thing she loved. Lucy with her hair down. She clicked the door closed quietly and snuck around to her side of the bed, avoiding Lucy’s collection of shoes around the bed. She carefully laid down and when she touched Lucy’s hand to move it, she jerked awake, her head rising and her eyes opening.

“It’s just me.” She whispered and put a hand to her cheek, coming closer so Lucy could see her better without her glasses.

“What? What?” She was dazed and confused, her body tense.

“Shhh. Shhhh.” She comforted and cuddled up to her, her head finding Lucy’s collarbone. “It’s okay, it’s just me. I’m sorry for scaring you.”

“Little one?” She asked, unbelieving. “You…you’re here.”

Her arms wrapped around YFN tighter than they ever had before, holding her close to her body, her own body softening into her. “Is everything okay?!”

“Everything’s fine, Luce. I have the next two days off. I’m all yours.”

Lucy groaned happily and kissed her wherever she could reach.

“Sleep now, Luce.”

“You’re home,” she whispered huskily with emotion, her voice already fading.

“I’m home.”

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minicabride · 2 years ago

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How to make the most of your London City airport Taxi transfer ?

When it comes to traveling, ensuring a smooth and stress-free airport transfer is essential. For travelers flying into or out of London City Airport in London, choosing a reliable and efficient taxi service can make a significant difference. In this article, we will explore how to make the most of your London City Airport taxi transfer, providing you with useful tips and insights to enhance your overall travel experience.

Pre-Book Your Taxi:

One of the first steps in maximizing your airport transfer experience is to pre-book your London taxi in advance. By doing so, you ensure that a reliable and professional driver will be waiting for you upon your arrival at London City Airport. Pre-booking also allows you to secure a competitive fare and avoid any last-minute hassles or long waits for transportation.

Research and Choose a Reputable Taxi Service:

Take the time to research and choose a reputable Airport Taxi Transfer service for your transfer. Look for companies with a strong track record, positive customer reviews, and a proven commitment to punctuality and customer service. Ensure that the taxi service is licensed and regulated, providing you with peace of mind regarding safety and reliability.

Opt for Meet and Greet Service:

To start your journey on a pleasant note, consider opting for a meet and greet service. With this option, a professional driver will meet you at the airport's arrival hall, holding a personalized sign with your name. They will assist you with your luggage and guide you to the waiting London City Airport taxi, making the entire process seamless and hassle-free.

Choose the Right Vehicle:

When booking your London City Airport taxi, consider the number of passengers and amount of luggage you will be carrying. Select a vehicle that accommodates your needs comfortably, ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey. Reliable taxi services offer a range of vehicle options, from sedans to larger vans, to cater to varying group sizes and luggage requirements.

Plan Your Journey in Advance:

While the London City Airport taxi service will handle the logistics, it is essential to plan your journey in advance. Take into account factors such as traffic conditions, the time of day, and any potential road closures that may affect your travel time. Consider communicating with the taxi service to discuss your travel plans, allowing them to suggest the best pickup time to ensure you arrive at the airport with ample time for check-in and security procedures.

Provide Flight Details:

To facilitate a smooth airport transfer, provide your London City Airport taxi service with accurate flight details during the booking process. Share your flight number and arrival/departure times so that the driver can monitor your flight status, ensuring they are aware of any delays or changes. This information enables the driver to adjust the pickup time accordingly and ensures that they are waiting for you promptly, regardless of any unexpected schedule adjustments.

Consider Additional Services:

Some London City Airport taxi services offer additional services that can enhance your airport transfer experience. These services may include in-car Wi-Fi, charging ports, child seats, and even refreshments. Consider these extras when selecting your taxi service, as they can significantly contribute to your comfort and convenience during the journey.

Communicate Special Requests:

If you have any special requests or requirements, communicate them with the UK taxi service in advance. Whether it's the need for a larger vehicle, assistance with disabled passengers, or any other specific needs, informing the taxi service ahead of time ensures they can make necessary arrangements to cater to your requirements.

Stay Informed and Remain in Contact:

Maintain communication with your London City Airport taxi service throughout the transfer process. Stay informed about any updates or changes and be available via phone or messaging apps to provide real-time updates on your arrival or departure. This allows the driver to adjust their plans accordingly and ensures a smooth and efficient transfer.

How Much A Taxi Cost From London City Airport To All London Airport?

London City Airport Taxi Price for any transfer booked for any of the International airports are as follows

Airports Transfer Price (Saloon Car)

Taxi From London City to Southend Airport Transfer - £69:00

Taxi From London City to Stansted Airport Transfer - £69:00

Taxi From London City to Gatwick Airport Transfer - £79:00

Taxi From London City to Luton Airport Transfer- £89:00

Taxi From London City to Heathrow Airport Transfer- £79:00

#London City Airport Taxi #London City Airport cabs #London City Airport minicab #London City Airport Transfer #London City Airport to heathrow Airport taxi #London City Airport to gatwick Airport Taxi #London City Airport to Stansted Airport taxi #London City Airport to Luton Airport Taxi #London Airport Taxi #London Airport Cabs #London Airport Transfer

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tact-and-impulse · 4 months ago

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Narumayo Week 2024 Day 5

I just had to pull together the idea at the end of the day, but I made it!

Prompt: Travel

“You finally made it? That took forever.” Pearl gasped on the other end of the line. “Can you see the big clock tower? Or London Bridge?”

Maya wryly looked past the glass, at the rainy weather obscuring the city lights. “Not right now, it’s already nighttime here. And guess what? I’m calling from tomorrow, it’s the next day.”

“Oh, my gosh…” Her little cousin was awed.

She spied a familiar blue blazer staggering out of the men’s restroom. “There he is. Nick is totally wiped out, even though he slept for half the flight.”

“I heard that, Maya. Hi, Pearl.” He yawned. “And it took almost fifteen hours. The Legal League of Attorneys is paying, so I probably shouldn’t complain that much.”

Maya was already enjoying the trip. She’d never traveled by plane before, and she had the window seat. The green fields, craggy mountains, and tiny bustling cars were fascinating, but she was absolutely enthralled by the glow of sunset among the clouds. She had taken pictures with her digital camera, although none seemed to capture the beauty of that golden hour.

A crack of thunder caused them to startle. Maya hurriedly said. “It’s also raining here, and we should get to the hotel. Talk to you later.”

“Bye, Mystic Maya.” The phone clicked, and they rushed to baggage claim. They headed for the exit, stopping short at the sheet of water rippling over the glass windows. A flash of lightning illuminated their resigned expressions.

“Uh, Nick, did you-?”

“No…ugh. And London’s known for it too.”

They’d forgotten to pack umbrellas.

And the airport had to jack up the prices. While Maya sifted through the sightseeing magazines and tried not to stare at an incredibly expensive toy tea party set, Phoenix paid for their shield from the rain. As he returned, she noticed it was a single clear umbrella. Just one.

Her pulse picked up, and she hoped she sounded nonchalant. “We’re operating on a budget, huh?”

“It’s only for tonight. Do you mind if we stick close together?”

“After sitting next to you for hours and hours?” No, she didn’t mind at all. In fact, that was crucial to her enjoyment. “I think I’ll survive.”

“I’ll try to keep you in one piece. Who else is going to ride a trolley and eat fish and chips with me?”

“And sticky toffee pudding. We have to get the full experience while we’re tourists.”

“Legal exchange representatives.”

“Only in the courtroom. Outside of it, that’s a different story.” She purposefully raised her eyebrows. He gave a low laugh, and she was too pleased.

“A fair argument. That’s why I asked you to come along.” Despite his weary demeanor and the dark circles under his eyes, he still offered his arm. That was him to the core, continuing to the very end. “Let’s go.”

She acquiesced, tightly hanging on to his solid presence. “Okay. First one to find a cab wins.”

And with that, they went stamping into the stormy darkness.

#narumayo #narumayoweek2024 #ace attorney #it's when they land in london for the layton crossover game

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archivist-crow · 3 months ago

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On this day:

CONNECTED

On September 14, 1966, two British sisters visiting New York City for the first time queued up at the airport for over an hour to get a taxi. Amazingly, as they got in the cab, their driver, a complete stranger, asked them about their actor cousin, Guy Middleton, who had performed in New York thirty years earlier. The cabbie used to take him to and from the theater nightly. The girls had spoken to Middleton two days earlier as they were leaving London, and he had asked them to say hello to New York for him; he had many good friends there.

In September, 1891, Dr. Amie Guinard, a surgeon in Paris, France, awoke with a stabbing toothache and decided to get up to finish a paper he was writing on the surgical treatment of stomach cancer. In the morning he went to the dentist down the street, whom he had met once, six months earlier. When Guinard entered the clinic, the surprised dentist told Guinard that he had spent all the previous night dreaming of him. Guinard hoped they were pleasant dreams, but no; the dentist had dreamed that he had cancer of the stomach and that Guinard was going to operate.

In 1967, Constable Peter Moscardi of Essex, U.K., gave his phone number to a friend. But he had accidentally got a number wrong and was unable to get in touch with the friend to change it. Nights later, Moscardi was in the industrial park and noticed a factory door open and a light on inside. As he entered, the telephone rang, and Moscardi answered it. It was his friend calling the wrong number to speak with Moscardi.

In 1992, in Dover, England, a woman, looking at a staff list, mistakenly called her coworker by dialing his payroll identification number instead of his home phone number. He answered, shocked that she had found him; he had been shopping, and the number she had mistakenly dialed turned out to be the number of the payphone he happened to be standing by at that moment.

Text from: Almanac of the Infamous, the Incredible, and the Ignored by Juanita Rose Violins, published by Weiser Books, 2009

#on this day #september #coincidences

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assortedseaglass · 2 years ago

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Come Back To Me - Chapter Eight

Billy Washington x OFC

[Masterlist]

Warnings: Language, Mentions of Racism, SMUT, Trigger Point (TV) Spoilers

Author’s Note: Thank you so much for all the support you have given me on this; I was so scared to share any writing before and you have all made me fall back in love with it! I was initially only going to do one more chapter, but I think it’ll be two, just to tie it all up! More notes at the end.

Word Count: 6.8K

“Are you sure you’re going to be ok on your own?” Sofia said, worrying her bottom lip as she leant against the kitchen door.

“Stop!” Ida laughed from the living room sofa. “I’ll be fine, and if I need anything, I’ve got gran and these guys.” She held up a battered copy of Lady Chatterley’s Lover.

Sofia wolf whistled. “Spicy. We really do need to get you a fella,” she joked. At that moment, Faisal popped his head around the corner.

“Taxi’s here, babe.”

“Promise me you’re ok with us going-”

“Leave her alone, Sofia!” Faisal cut in. “She’s a grown woman!”

“Thank you, Faisal,” Ida replied. “Now hurry up and get to the airport. And send me a postcard!” Sofia pecked Ida on the cheek as Faisal saluted, and in a moment, they were gone. Through the open balcony window, Ida heard Sofia and Faisal chatting to who she assumed was the taxi driver before the slamming of doors and the cab driving away.

The July heatwave had at last been broken by the first of the summer storms. Water thundered across the flat’s roof, fat drops dripping off the balcony awning onto the street below. The neon signs of shop fronts were reflected in by the rain-soaked roads, and from the window, Ida could see forks of lightning hit the skyline of the city ahead. This downpour had lasted for days, and Ida welcomed it. It was a week since the incident at Cranstead Fields, and she and Billy hadn’t spoken.

In the days after Billy’s rescue, Ida retreated to the flat to be cared for by Sofia and Faisal. Those first few nights, Sofia slept in Ida’s bed, cradling her when she woke with fresh nightmares. Nightmares where she hadn’t reached Billy in time. These were only intensified by the writing of a report for EXPO, with the help of Lana, about that day’s events.

After that, Ida spent her time walking, miles and miles through London’s parks and backstreets. One day, she caught the tube to Chalk Farm and walked to the top of Primrose Hill. The notepad and book in her bag sat untouched as she watched couples entwined on the grass, children riding bikes and running around, singular old men and women walking their dogs against the backdrop of the city. When the rains eventually came, she nestled on the sofa of the lounge with a stack of books and blankets. Ida slept more often than not, and her waking hours were filled with the distraction of books. Romances, mostly. She asked Sofia and Faisal if they could leave the balcony door open; Ida had always loved the sound of heavy rain, and she needed the fresh, open air just to remind her she was alive. Gwen would occasionally stop by with food, soups and cakes usually, and news of the Washingtons.

According to her grandma, the only time Lana’s car left the driveway was to come and help Ida with her report. The Washington’s door was never closed such was the constant stream of visitors for Billy, “even that Becky girl came over.” Ida had tried to not let this affect her, but that evening she, Sofia and Faisal sank a whole bottle of vodka. Billy left the house rarely, though when he did it was always with his dad, and when Gwen had gone round for a cup of tea, he had barely uttered a word. “I think he’s been sleeping mostly, poor lad.”

Gwen said this aside to her granddaughter almost as a way to soften the fact that Billy had not spoken to her, as though she expected her to be angry. But how could she be? Ida herself barely wanted to speak to anyone after Cranstead Fields, and she hadn’t been the one nearly blown up. And after all, had she tried to speak to Billy? What could she say?

Hey Billy, we still haven’t chatted about your arrest for racially aggravated assault!

Hey Billy, remember that time you said I was perfect, then that you didn’t want me anymore while you pinned me to a wall?

Hey Billy, did your folks tell you that I called them a shit family?

Hey Billy, didn’t think the next time we’d see each other after our raging argument would be me dragging you out of a car filled with explosives!

Ida laughed a little at that thought and returned to her book. She’d picked it up in a second-hand bookshop not long ago, drawn to it by the annotations that adorned its pages. Ida was continually drawn to one such highlight near the beginning of the book;

‘The cataclysm has happened, we are among the ruins, we start to build up new little habitats, to have new little hopes. It is rather hard work: there is now no smooth road into the future: but we go round, or scramble over the obstacles. We've got to live, no matter how many skies have fallen.’

She took a sip of her wine and, out loud to the rain, said “We’ve got to live, no matter how many skies have fallen.”

KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK

Ida jolted and laughed properly this time. How typical of Sofia to forget something. She could see Faisal now, frantically checking the airport departure times and recalculating their trip. Springing from the sofa, she hurried to the door and swung it open, calling out as she did so. “What have you forg-”. The words died in her mouth. Stood in the dark doorway, head bowed, was Billy.

Droplets of rain clung to his sandy hair, which was shorter than the last time she’d seen him. His stubble was gone too, highlighting his sunken cheeks. He looked exhausted. The dark circles around his eyes only made them more fantastically blue, and God Ida wished he’d look at her. He took a few deep breaths and, speaking quietly to his feet, said “Saw Sofia and Faisal downstairs, and they, er, they let me in.” Then he did it. He looked right at her and something in Ida snapped. She flung herself at him, burying her face in his neck and wrapping her arms around his shoulders. Billy stumbled, letting out a little hmph as her body knocked into his. There was no hesitation in his hands as he brought them to her back and nestled is nose into her hair.

“I’ve missed you,” he said, breathing in her scent. She pulled back to look at him, a brilliant smile on her freckled face, and took his hand to lead him into the flat. Ida dropped it as she hurried into the kitchenette, and Billy shuffled awkwardly a little as he looked around the flat.

It had been a while since he was last here. Faisal’s birthday, maybe? He could see evidence of Sofia and Faisal. Sofia’s trinkets from her travels, all brightly coloured. Faisal’s stack of games and house plants. Still, Ida was unmistakably sewn into the fabric of their little home. Fairy lights were strung above the windows and old sofa, which was covered with blankets. Her childhood teddy, patchworked and worn, sat atop them next to a small selection of books and her grandad’s Cork County Football Team mug. Frameless photographs of her friends were stuck to the walls. Looking closer, Billy saw many of them together. Mucking about in a field, painted faces at a church fair, drinks in hand at a bar in Spain, chatting conspiratorially at a table in Gwen’s garden. There were three of Sofia and Faisal that Ida herself had taken. They were lined up together, and in each one Faisal was gazing lovingly at Sofia, who’s blonde hair was illuminated by the setting sun behind her. Billy’s stomach did a little flip, and he turned to the open door of the balcony. The rain was coming down harder now, and he watched from the shelter of the awning as people scurried into shops to avoid the summer downpour. The air was thick with humidity, and he wiped his newly cut hair from his brow, certain that his nerves were doing little to dissuade the heat. When Ida joined him on the balcony with a glass of wine and a beer for him, Billy chugged a few mouthfuls then held the bottle to his neck.

Ida sat on the small balcony bench, feet outstretched. Billy joined her, sitting awkwardly, formally, at the other end. Neither said a word. The relief each had felt at finally seeing one another had faded, their recent history worming its way to the forefront on their minds.

“Warren’s-”

“Gran said-”

They spoke at the same time. Ida gestured for Billy to continue, picking her glass of wine up from the table to take a sip.

“Warren’s going on trial. I had to go down to the station for an interview, hours it took, and they managed to catch him. Fucking bastard,” Billy muttered that last part bitterly, and Ida grew hot with anger. This Warren bloke was lucky that the police got to him before she did. “I’ve got to go and testify. Will you be coming?” He looked at her hopefully.

“To the trial? No, they have my statement from the day, no need for me to be there really.”

“Right.” Billy took another sip of his beer and began peeling off its paper wrapper. “They’ve dropped my charges, dunno if Lana told you?” Ida shook her head. She wasn’t sure she wanted to hear this, she was still so angry at him. Her Billy would never have done what the one before her had. “Just had to pay a fine for the cost of the window. Dad and I went to help them put it in, thought it was the least I could-”

Ida cut in sharply. “But Billy, that doesn’t-”

“I know it doesn’t excuse what I did.” Billy replied tersely. He huffed a sigh as if to calm himself and wiped his face. “It doesn’t excuse what I did, or what I thought. I know that. Everything with John, with Nut dying,” he trailed off before continuing. “I was just so sick of not fitting in anywhere. All my friends have outgrown me, my family were sick of me hanging around and never achieving anything. But then everything-” Billy was gesturing with his hands but his voice died away. Ida knew he was thinking about Cranstead. How his new friends had used him as a means to a terrifying, bitter end. Billy sighed and relaxed into the seat. His hand found the hem of Ida’s skirt and fiddle with it, running his finger up and down the seam absentmindedly. Occasionally, his thumb grazed the skin of her calves and she shivered, despite the heat that the action caused to prickle at her cheeks. Billy noticed her stir and, realising what he was doing, retracted his hands and took another swig of beer. He changed the subject hastily.

“Been spending more time with Dad.”

“Oh, that’s lovely. Really, Bill!” Ida’s voiced sounded falsely cheerful and she mentally scolded herself.

“Think he’s scared you might come after him again.” Billy laughed and Ida hung her head in her hands.

“Oh God,” her voice was muffled by her palms. “Oh my God.”

“Don’t be embarrassed!” Billy was still laughing. “Lana told me all about it. I’m sad I missed it!”

“You would have been there if you’d turned up to your own birthday!” They laughed together, and Ida watched as the skin around his eyes crinkled. She suddenly realised how long it had been since she had seen him laugh properly, and she smiled softly at him. He caught her gaze, lips quirking in the corners, then turned back to face the rainy city.

“Becky came by too,” he said matter-of-factly, as though it was just a passing comment.

“Oh right?” Ida didn’t need to tell Billy that she already knew, or that this news caused an almighty night of drinking.

Billy caught her aloofness and laughed again. “Don’t worry,” he nudged her legs. “She won’t be around again. Talked some bollocks about how she hadn’t been able to sleep since she’d heard. As if she was the one who…who was stuck-” He recovered himself quickly. “She wasn’t happy you were there, either.”

“I bet she wasn’t,” Ida said under her breath.

“I’m glad it was you.” Billy said suddenly, looking directly at her. Despite the darkness of the evening, his eyes were bright and Ida felt that if she looked at them too long, he’d be able to hear her hurried and confused thoughts. She looked away. “Thank you, Ida.” Nodding awkwardly, she took a large gulp of wine and winced at the bitter taste.

“You didn’t know, did you?” Billy shifted on the bench so that his body was facing Ida’s.

“Know what?”

“That the timer was a decoy,”

“Lana and Has said it was-”

“But you didn’t know, did you?” Billy cut across her. “Not for certain.” Ida stilled, and Billy watched as her usually rosy cheeks drained of colour and her eyes widen. He continued when she didn’t respond. “Seeing you there. I-I can’t stop thinking about it. Every time I close my eyes, it’s your face at the window. You looked so wild, like an animal caught in a cage. Knowing now that you didn’t know for certain-” His hands were shaking as he put down the beer bottle. “Christ, Ida! You could have died!”

“And you would have died.” Ida had found her voice. What was I meant to do, Billy? Sit there and watch you die? All scared and alone in that car!?”

Billy turned away from her. “I think, sometimes, it would have been better if I had.” Ida felt like she had been slapped. She stared at him, open-mouthed as he let his last sentence hang dreadfully in the air. “I brought this whole mess upon myself. And Lana. And you. Mum’s been inconsolable since, and seeing dad try to be better...He’s trying to be a better dad, but I feel such a burden to be a better son.” Fat tears were filling Billy’s eyes, and he pushed the palms of his hands to them roughly, trying to force them back in. He moved to the edge of the balcony and Ida followed. “What’s the point of me, Ida!? I tried to stop fucking everything up and leave you all alone, only to fuck it up even more! I’m just a worthless-”

“How dare you.” Ida whispered and Billy turned like a whip. This time, it was he who looked like they had been slapped. “HOW DARE YOU!” Ida was shouting at him now, her voice tearing from the effort of keeping back sobs. “I risked my life for you! Have you learnt nothing!?”

“Ida-”

“NO!” She thrust a finger aggressively into his chest. “Look at where this pitiful thinking got you last time! For fuck’s sake, Billy! I wish you could see yourself the way I do.” Billy scoffed, but Ida ignored him. “When your heart is high, God, you’re the best person to be around. You’re gentle and kind and light. It’s like staring at the sun. Everything about you is sunshine.” She laughed at how childish that sounded. “You don’t understand, do you? My life isn’t the same without you! These last few weeks have been agony.” Ida pressed a hand to her chest, where the dull ache that had been following her since their argument was reaching its painful peak. Billy watched with wide eyes as she continued to shout at him, tears streaming onto her cheeks as her voice shook. “Whether I had been by your side at Cranstead or not, I’d have died anyway! I can’t go on without you.”

Billy stared at her. She was gulping down air, her chest rising from the effort of shouting at him. When someone on the street below whistled up to them and shouted, “Lover’s quarrel?”, Ida gripped the edge of the balcony and screamed at them.

“FUCK OFF!” Billy took a step closer to her, but she wheeled around, a manic look in her eyes. “All I can see is you in that car. Your eyes…and I wake up in the night having dreamt that the bomb…that you-” She was rubbing her hands in panicked agitation, an unfocused look in her eyes as they darted everywhere but Billy’s face.

“Ida. Ida, I’m here.” Billy moved to block everything but himself from her vision, gripping her arms and holding her still.

“Billy?” Ida whispered, as though waking from a bad dream. Billy supposed, momentarily, that she had. Taken back to the same nightmare that he himself has been reliving these past agonising days. She curled her fists into the chest of his t-shirt, her breath slowing. Billy’s own caught in his throat and he had to fight to keep himself still. Her palms lay flat on his chest, and she looked up at him. There she was. Back with him. Ida’s breath was deep, and with every inhale she could smell what was unmistakably Billy. His cedarwood shower gel, jasmine laundry detergent, the faintest hint of fresh sweat and now, beer on his breath as it fanned across her cheek. She put her head to his chest and gripped him tighter, running her hands to his shoulders and back to his chest. She felt a deep hum rumble through his chest.

“Making sure I’m real?” He said, looking down at her with half-lidded awe. One of his arms wrapped tentatively around Ida’s waist, skirting the flesh beneath her top as he brought her body closer to his. The other brushed her wayward hair from her neck, letting his hand tangle at the back of her head.

Ida shuddered as he pulled her head back a little, the action causing her lips to part. She closed her eyes and whispered, “Please don’t joke, Billy.” His mouth was a feather’s width away from her lips.

“I’m real, Ida.” His eyes flashed momentarily to her parted mouth, and when Ida whispered his name against his lips all sound around him ceased but for the roaring of his heartbeat in his ears. Billy tightened his grip in her hair and Ida, finally, any fight or thought of resisting gone from her, gave herself over to him. Billy’s warm lips brushed against her own so delicately that she whimpered. Clutching at his t-shirt, she dragged him closer and wrapping her arms around his neck to hold his face to hers. Billy towered over her, his hand reaching her neck, one thumb ghosting over her cheek as he continued to kiss her. He pulled back, every so fleetingly, to look at her. Ida’s eyes were still closed, the smallest of furrows between her brow. Hers lips were pink and a little swollen, a sheen of moisture covering them from where he had kissed her. Billy ran his thumb over her plump bottom lip and dipped his head to kiss her once more, his tongue brushing gently against her bottom lip. He kissed her languidly, and she moaned when his tongue parted her lips. Fuck, he needed her. Billy walked her back against the wall of the flat, mouth never leaving Ida’s, as rain bounced off the balcony edge and pattered their skin with cold. Keeping his hand in her hair, he pulled her head back and left gentle, open-mouthed kisses against the column of Ida’s neck. He nipped at the skin with his teeth, and when she shuddered, he did it again. Unable to stop himself, he pressed a knee between her legs, the hand that had been holding her waist suddenly at her hip, pushing her into the wall and holding her in place. As Billy pressed his weight against Ida’s, she opened her eyes with a gasp as a memory invaded her thoughts.

“Did you ever stop to think, Ida, that I’m not shutting myself off from everyone? Just you!”

“Billy,” she croaked, placing her hands on his shoulders. He continued to kiss her. “Billy, please.”

She could see Billy towering over her, pinning her body against the wall of his flat. He had licked his lips and braced himself against the wall, leant towards her and pressed his weight against her torso. She could see him closing his eyes as he felt her beneath him. “Did you ever stop to think, Ida, that I’m not shutting myself off from everyone, just you?”

“Billy,” he looked up at her, his eyes wide and questioning. He watched as more tears came. “Don’t Billy. My heart can’t take it again.” Ida dipped beneath his arms and hurried back into the flat. Billy stood there, staring at the spot where Ida had been.

“Fuck!” he hissed, hitting the wall. “FUCK!” A few tears of his own fell this time, and he wiped them away furiously. Here it was again, that painful, humiliating voice at the back of his mind. You’ve fucked up. Again. He leant his head against the rough wall and listened to the rain. Focus on what’s around you. That’s what Lana told him to do when he got flashbacks of Cranstead Fields. Eyes shut, head against the wall, Billy listened to the rain, the laughter of night-time revellers on the street below. He stuck his arm over the balcony and felt the rain against his hand. He heard Ida slam her bedroom door, and his heart contracted painfully. Sometimes, Billy felt like he could read Ida’s mind and sometimes, it scared him. Like now. He knew that she had been taken back to their argument in his flat. As he pressed his body against hers, he had remembered it too. The way she had watched him lick his lips, and how she had cried when he told her he didn’t want her anymore.

You’ve fucked up. Again.

No. Billy remembered why he came here. Remembered how desperately he wanted to see her, so desperate that his body had brought him here before his mind had caught up. Billy needed Ida, and he needed her to know.

Ida stood with her back against her bedroom door, one hand at her heart, the other just below her stomach. On the opposite wall was a photo of her and Billy, at the beach on his birthday last year, and she stared at it. Her hand moved to her mouth, and she shut her eyes. She could still feel the ghost of Billy’s lips there. In the mirror, she caught site of a little red mark on her neck, and heat blossomed shamefully between her legs.

Fuck.

She was standing at a precipice, leaning forward ever so deliciously. Behind her was the Collected History of Billy and Ida, volumes and volumes of memory, all compiled to make the woman she was in this very moment; heartbroken, terrified, excited. Ahead, who knew? Ida wanted to lean over, to peak at was waiting. But that’s not how it works. Jump thrillingly into the unknown or turn back to the familiar. Could she and Billy go back to the way they were before? After all that had happened, all that Ida wanted to happen…

Her phone vibrated in her pocket. A message from Sofia.

Just arrived at the airport, all on time. Will message when we land. How are you feeling honey? xxx

Ida hastily texted back, a flush on her cheeks.

Horny and confused

Three little dots appeared immediately to signify that Sofia was writing.

Erm, what? xxx

As Ida’s hands hovered over the screen, she heard the balcony door shut and Billy making his way into the kitchenette. The taps turned on, and there was the clutter of glasses. A fork of lightning illuminated her bedroom, and Ida made her way to the window. Rain cascaded down the panes, London only just visible. A sliver of light from the hall cut the bedroom in two. She looked over her shoulder. Billy stood there, leaning against the doorframe and silhouetted by the light, watching her once again.

“Ida-”

“Everything’s changed.” She said simply. Another fork of lightning split the sky, and Ida was reminded of the book laying open on the sofa. “’We’ve got to live, no matter how many skies have fallen.’”

“Pardon?” Billy crept into the room to stand at her side.

“It’s from Lady Chatterley’s Lover,” she replied, eyes still focused on the night beyond.

A small laugh escaped Billy; of course Ida had a quote for everything. He looked at her looking at the sky and said lowly, “Say it again.”

She looked at him looking at her. “’We’ve got to live, no matter how many skies have fallen.’” Another spark of lightning. His eyes were electric. Billy stared at her, unblinking, as though she would disappear if he did. Above the neck of his t-shirt, Ida saw his pulse quicken. God, how she wanted to run her tongue over the freckled skin there. Fuck. This was it. The jump.

“I- I-” She huffed at the disappearance of her confidence. Billy leant forward, his brow questioning, eyes hopeful, plush lips parted. Ida looked at them and in a breathless whisper said, “I wish we could go back to how we were before.”

“I don’t,”

“What?” Ida’s heart froze. “Why?”

Billy’s body relaxed. Everything he’d been through, everything they’d been through together, was leading to this. A great weight lifted from his chest and, looking at her with bright eyes, he said with a simple smile, “Because I love you, Ida.” He watched her lips part, and my God even though he loved it when she talked back, he continued before she could. “I can’t go back to how we were before, looking for some half-hearted attempt at love with someone who isn’t you. Being so near to you yet knowing you aren’t mine is torture. I can’t say when I started loving you, Ida, all I know is it’s easy.” Ida had Billy’s heart in her hands, and he paused, knowing his next sentence would change everything. “If…if…if you don’t want me, say the word and I’ll go, but I had to tell you. Loving you is what I’m best at.”

Ida’s face was unreadable. Just for a moment. Then, quite unexpectedly, she laughed, advancing on him at lightning speed. The last thing Billy Washington remembered of his old life was the sound of Ida’s rasped “Oh, Billy,” before her lips came crashing to his.

Billy’s disbelief didn’t last long. No sooner had her lips met his was he grabbing the plump flesh of her hips and forcing her backwards. She hit the wall with a thump and Billy’s body ground into hers. He grabbed her jaw and pushed her face away so that he might cover her neck with kisses. He saw the mark he had left on her not ten minutes before and licked languidly over the skin, causing Ida to mewl in pleasure. His lips skirted over the flesh of her exposed collarbones, between the clothed valley of her breasts and he sank to his knees. Ida’s hand instantly found his flaxen hair and he looked up at her, a giddy smile on his boyish face. She giggled and caressed his cheeks as, ever so delicately, so tantalising slowly, he lifted the hem of her top to place feather-light kisses on her stomach. Every touch, every moment that Billy spent worshipping her body only added to the heat rising in her chest and pooling at the apex of her thighs. She needed more of him, and reached down to bring her top over her head. Billy groaned as he looked up to see the curve of her breasts, the movement of her soft, pink nipples as her breath shuddered. Ida’s hips rolled involuntarily at the sound of him, and Billy grinned. That damn smile, Ida thought.

He continued to kiss her naked torso as one hand made its firm way up her thigh. Ida whimpered. “Please, Billy.” Nervously, Billy undid the tie of her skirt and let it fall to the floor.

“Fuck.” He could smell her. See her, the wetness of her underwear displaying her wanton need for him. Once more grabbing the soft flesh of her hips, he pressed his face to her arousal and breathed in her scent. Ida sobbed and grabbed his hair.

“Please,”

He wrenched down her underwear and there she was, completely exposed to him. She giggled again, though Billy knew her well enough to hear the nerves they hid. “You’re so beautiful, Ida,” he whispered, looking up at her. How many times had he imagined her like this? Here she was, wild haired and panting, her body illuminated by the city light, shadows of rain from the window caressing every curve of her. Her dark eyes were bright, teeth tucked between her bottom lip, simultaneously smiling while trying not to moan in pleasure. Billy watched her breasts rise with her breathing, and he reached up to run his hand over the sensitive flesh there. The moan was rent from her lips and her hips rose to meet his face. Billy made use of her body’s reaction and hooked his arm under her thigh. Ida gasped when she realised what he was doing. Laying her leg over his shoulder, Billy pushed her further up the wall as he brought his face closer to the thatch of curls above her centre.

He paused just a moment, waiting for her to stop him. When she didn’t, Billy brought his other hand to part her wetness and ran his tongue lazily over her pink centre. Ida cried out, and sank slightly onto him, desperate for more. Billy’s heart swelled with pride and he repeated the action, marvelling in the sounds Ida made above him.

“You taste incredible.” He rasped, continuing to lap at her pussy. Carefully, nervously, she ground herself against him, his nose rubbing against her sensitive bundle of nerves. She laughed, remembering all the sinful times she had thought about his nose.

“What?” Billy laughed too, in between kisses to her core.

“It’s good,” she whispered. “You’re so good.” Billy stood and brought his forehead to hers.

“I love you,”

“Billy,” she kissed him with urgency, tasting herself on his lips. She grabbed his hips and brought him closer to her. Gripping his shoulders, she rolled her hips against his and the hard fabric of his jeans. The bulge beneath them against her clit ignited a desperate need within her. Her mouth broke away from his and her hands frantically made work of his belt. Billy could barely contain himself. He watch as she needily undressed him, and he brought his shirt over his body as she undid the button of his jeans. Distracted by his naked torso, she pressed her bare chest against his and he moaned. Her hands raked over the plains of his chest. The lean muscle, the smattering on hair. Her nails dug into his shoulders and their tongues found each other once again, desperate to taste once another.

“I need you, Billy,” Ida moaned into his mouth. God he’d do anything for her. Taking her hands in his, he spun her around and pushed her lightly on to the bed. He could have sworn he felt his cock twitch as he watched her body bounce on the mattress. He unzipped his jeans and, hooking his fingers in the band of his boxers, slowly removed them, never taking his eyes off Ida.

Her mouth watered. Billy’s cock sprang free from his trousers, and she marvelled at the glisten of precum that adorned its tip. The way it curved upwards, the tautness of his balls, the size of him. She ached to feel him inside her. Billy smirked as she gawped at him. He teasingly ran a hand up and down his length.

“Stop-” she groaned. Billy did so once more before he knelt to kiss her legs.

“You look like that painting, the one we saw in Paris,” he whispered seductively before licking a stripe up her centre.

“God, Billy,” she half laughed, half moaned. They had gone to Paris for her 21st birthday. At the Musee d’Orsay, Billy had blushed furiously when he found Ida gazing at a painting of a woman’s naked torso. He had taken her hand and led her away, but not before looking back over his shoulder.

He crawled up the length of her body. Another pulse of arousal throbbed between Ida’s legs as he did so. The roll of his shoulders and his darkened gaze; she felt like prey. Billy brought a hand to cup her breast, the other reaching harshly between her thighs.

“Fuck!” she cried as Billy ran his long fingers between her wet folds. The sound of her sex was obscene, and Billy fought every urge to sheath himself fully in that heavenly spot between her legs. Slowly, he dipped two fingers inside her, and Ida arched off the bed. Billy caught her nipple between his lips and sucked lightly, ran a tongue over the sensitive flesh, then nipped at it with his teeth. Her pussy clenched around his fingers and he swore. She drove him crazy. Between the pulse of her walls, the soft flesh of her breast and the nipple he tugged between his lips, he could barely focus. He pulled his fingers out of her suddenly and she whimpered. Licking his fingers, he closed his eyes at the taste of her. Ida’s hands wound their way into his hair and tugged him closer. She kissed him. Slowly, deeply, and tasted herself on his tongue. He was intoxicating. Warmth burst in Ida’s chest. No matter how many times she had imagined him when only her hand would do, nothing could compare to this.

Using her hip, and the hand that had found his shoulder, she pushed him lightly so that he fell back onto the mattress. She leant down as though to kiss him, but as he raised his head she moved away. Billy’s frustrated huff died away when Ida bit the pulse point of his neck, when she kissed her way down his chest, hair tickling his abdomen as her fingers brushed over his nipples.

“Oh my God, Ida.” She edged closer and closer to his cock, and when she ran her wet lips over him, he saw stars. Nothing could have prepared Billy for the warmth of Ida’s mouth on him. The swirl of her tongue around the tip of his swollen length, or the way she wrapped her hand around its base as she took him in her mouth. Torturously she worked her mouth around him, sucking as she took him fully. He tasted delicious, but the sounds he made were greater. Wetness gathered on Ida’s thighs as she listened to him beg and moan her name incoherently. When Billy looked down, he saw Ida’s lust-filled eyes staring back at him, and she didn’t miss the way the muscles of his abdomen flexed. Releasing his cock and licking away the precum coating her mouth, Ida straddled his small waist and looked at him with awe. The tight scrunch of his brows, the sheen of sweat that decorated them. The curve of his beautiful lips and the way his Adam’s apple bobbed when she rolled her sex over his achingly hard length. She braced herself with hands splayed across his chest and he gripped her waist with bruising intensity.

“Ida,” he whined as she rubbed her slick across him. Her head fell back when she repeated the action. “Ida!” He was louder that time. Needier. Leaning down to place a tender kiss on his plump lips, idea took him in her hand. With foreheads together, Billy’s hand guiding her hips, Ida sank slowly onto Billy’s length. They moaned in unison, and a few tears of pleasure pricked at Ida’s eyes.

Finally.

She looked down at Billy, her Billy, who smiled, love-drunk, up at her. He raised himself onto his elbows, one arm wrapping around her waist tightly to hold her secure. Ida whimpered as he shifted them to the edge of the bed, the movement causing him to thrust into her.

“Fuck,” Billy whispered against her chest. Feet planted firmly on the floor, his head was just below hers now. His other hand carded through her hair and she hummed with pleasure. Breath ghosting her neck, Billy placed more sloppy kisses to the skin there. Ida shivered and began rolling her hips. “Fuck.”

The rain continued to hammer on the windows of Ida’s bedroom, now joined by the sounds of their lovemaking. Breathless moans, whimpers of pleasure and the sound of skin on skin as Billy thrust into Ida’s tight heat, every sinew and fibre of him alive and alert to her body. Steadily, the pace at which he drove into her increased, his cock hitting the sweet spot inside her perfectly. He watched as she continued to ride him, transfixed by the bounce of her breasts and the way her mouth fell open.

“God, Billy,” Ida was crying now, the pleasure she felt as he fucked her overwhelming. “Don’t stop.” With a growl that almost sent her over the edge, Billy flipped her back onto the mattress and wrapped her legs around his waist. Harshly he rutted into her, one hand holding her hip in place as the other gripped her throat lightly. Her eyes fluttered shut.

“Look at me,” he pleaded, and with great effort she did so. Hair was sticking to his forehead and his jaw clenched as he pounded into her. His pleasure was so beautiful. Ida kissed his neck as he continued grinding his hips into hers. A hand suddenly flew between their entwined bodies as Billy sought to tease her clit. The pressure to her bundle as he continued his frantic thrusting was blinding, and Ida felt her orgasm build in her stomach.

“Billy, don’t stop!” She cried out, hand flying to his thigh and encouraging his thrusts. Billy’s hips snapped faster into her and the coil snapped. A guttural cry ripped from Ida’s throat as the world turned to white noise, feeling nothing but the shockwaves of her orgasm pulsing through her body. Billy watched as her body tightened beneath him, a flush covering her chest as her pussy fluttered around his cock. It was mere moments before he too came undone, crying her name as he came within her.

Neither of them knew how long they stayed there, bodies bound together as they rode out the high of their orgasms. Billy’s arms gave out on him, and he collapsed on top of Ida. She held him there awhile, feeling the shudder of his body as her legs did the same. When he began gently kissing the glistening skin of her chest, she lifted his head to look at her. Behind the fucked-out, peaceful glimmer in his eyes, she could still see his nervousness. The fear of rejection ever present.

“I love you, Billy. So much.”

Tears formed in his eyes. “Fuck.” Billy buried his face in her chest.

“I love you,” she kissed him. “I love you,” she kissed him again. Between kisses and whispered dedications, she held her Billy, willing him to feel how much her life depended on him. “Stay with me tonight. Please?” He rose to place a kiss to her lips, and nuzzled into her neck, breathing deeply.

“I’m not going anywhere.”

Billy woke to a faint stream of sun. Rain clouds still blanketed the sky, but the cacophonous downpour had faded. All that could be heard were the faint breaths of the woman beside him. Hair spread across the pillow in every which way, body relaxed in sleepy bliss. Ida. He reached out to stroke the curve of her exposed tummy, and she hummed.

Everything had changed.

Note: The painting referenced is L’Origine du Monde by Courbet. First ever smut so be kind! As I said at the beginning, I’ve decided to do two more chapters rather than one. See you for the next, thank you for all the kind words and support 😊

Tags: @jessssica1234 @anditsmywholeheart @bookwyrmsblog @phantomontheinternet @aemonds-wifey @slytherincursebreaker @valerie977 @i-killed-ramsey @greenowlfactif @yentroucnagol @schniiipsel @multiple-fandoms-girl @just-emmaaaa @tosiaf

#ewan mitchell #billy washington x oc #billy washington #trigger point series #ewan mitchell x reader #aemond x reader

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