#man I couldn't even eat ranch back then

[trifoliate-undergrowth]

Daily pet peeve: why do people act like salad is a punishment. Salad is crisp and good and can be customized to have any combination of different leaves toppings or dressings. If you simply do not like any salad, just find another type and preparation of vegetable to eat that you enjoy. Salad gets such bad PR it's the boring health weirdo food. Yes you should eat a variety of foods and balance your nutrition but I really don't think that hating on salad and talking about how nobody likes salad is helping with that. If you don't like it just eat something else that you do like. Why is salad a joke

[ghoulfuckersincorporated]

Had a terribly great thought! The Ghoul and reader traveling together. She's a brat but loyal as a dog to that man. They get into a pretty bad fight and she storms off and he's too proud to follow after her, struggling with coming to terms that he's actually soft for her even though he's mean as hell. She finds him some days later, with her tail tucked between her legs. He's not surprised, comparing her to a female dog often. 👀 still, he's going to make sure she's sorry. Lots of groveling on her part, maybe some face slapping, boot licking, he gets off, she doesn't. Ends with her in his lap. Hair petting and praise for coming back to who she belongs to.

As A Dog

Pairing: Cooper Howard/The Ghoul x Female Reader

Word Count: 7,085

Warnings: smut (18+), DEAD DOVE: DO NOT EAT, Jealous!Cooper, canon-typical violence, intimacy issues, angst, insecurity, slightly fucked conceptions of love and loyalty, pet play-ish activity, hard drug use, forced intoxication, shotgunning, slapping, boot licking, oral sex (male receiving), face fucking, rough sex, riding, cannibalistic thoughts, orgasm denial (female), breeding kink, creampie.

Notes: I had several pieces in line in front of this one and then this prompt reached through my screen, sunk its teeth into my brain, and shook me until this came out. It really is a terribly great thought. Tagging heavy, since the themes/Cooper's mentality may be triggering for some. It is what it says on the can, folks.

I dunno what unholy demon you've unleashed on me here, Anon. But bless you for it. Another Coop POV because I have a problem. Thanks for the patience on this one; I've been doing some admin stuff the last few days, including setting up an AO3 that you can find here, where I'll be uploading all the long-form stuff. Enjoy!

Cooper's trigger finger was itchier today than it had been for a long time.

He was fully aware that he'd never be able to stop every man left in the world from talking to his little vaultie companion, but boy, he sure would love to try. On an average day, he struggled to hold his tongue as she drove away her own sun-baked suitors, standing silently aside until called up to defend her, no matter how badly he wanted to reduce whomever was bothering her to nothing.

Today was a worse-than-average day, and the girl wasn't helping anything, herself.

"Are you gonna be ready to go any time soon, princess?" he asked her acerbically as she passed by him for the millionth time, tossing his current cigarette down to the ground.

He'd intended to stop at this shitty little settlement, little more than a dingy bighorner ranch at first glance, for a few minutes at most, just long enough to unload some things and check to see if they had any vials on hand. Here it was, nearly four hours of glad-handing and chit-chatting and unnecessary gun repairs later, and he was still leaning against the same crumbing wall, still angrily smoking. She was pushing it.

"Oh, be patient." she shot back, rolling her eyes as she turned to saunter back to the little ramshackle counter. "I'm waiting for my gun back and I was having a nice chat with the mechanic. Try to be pleasant for five minutes, would you?"

She was so full of shit, he thought as he snuffed the still-glowing smoke butt out beneath the toe of his boot with just a little more force than necessary. Typically, she shied away from male attention at her most demure, refusing to acknowledge most advances, playing innocent, playing dumb. The big doe eyes and soft voice didn't hurt on that front, but usually didn't deter the more steadfast predators.

He preferred the days where she had a little extra spitfire, when she told them clearly and loudly to fuck off, no doubt emboldened by having the rather intimidating ghoul hanging over her shoulder, silently encouraging her as she did it. In the past, she had proven that she wasn't above evoking his capacity for violence as a threat when the desert trash was persistent, and it gave him a thrill he couldn't identify, one that ruminated deep in his gut.

That same gut feeling was burning him now, eating a hole in his patience as he watched her listening attentively to the third scrawny young man who'd approached her as she waited around the repair hutch to yap her ear off. She nodded and smiled politely, even laughed from time to time (the sound of which made him want to shoot he kid between the eyes just for that), but kept a respectful distance. Clearly, she'd finally learned that the sort of over-friendliness that she'd been raised with in the vaults could be read differently up here. The young buck, however, continued to try and dance into her space as he spoke animatedly, and, eventually, she reached out and quickly touched his chest.

The old cowboy was stomping across the sand to her before he was even aware he was moving.

His logical brain could see very clearly what had happened: the boy had advanced into her space for the half-dozenth time and she'd put her palm out to gently rebuke him, distracting him from the rejection with a laugh at whatever he'd said. But that part of his brain was rather quiet after a long afternoon of watching her rather blatantly flirt with the asshole she was having repair her plasma pistol (something that she would typically have him do, since it wouldn't cost her anything, and he almost certainly could do with equal or superior adequacy), and letting every other little piss-ant farmhand in the next mile radius chat her up.

"We're hitting the road in five. Get your shit and let's go." he hissed to her, ignoring the little scowl she shot him as he interrupted her newest conversation with the willowy, greasy mechanic, who was sliding her her pistol back across the knotted wood of the semi-exposed countertop. Flashing him that brilliant smile, the one that he wanted to be only for him, she checked the thing over before tucking it back into the holster she kept on her hip, pushing a stash of caps in a metal tin back his way. The old cowboy watched with inflamed indignation as the fucker opened the box, dug out a massive handful, and tucked them back into her hands, letting his own linger across her skin as he placed them back into her palms.

Frankly, he was impressed he was able to let her drop the things back into her bag before he grabbed her by the arm, none too gently, and wordlessly began to yank her back down the road, back in the direction they'd originally been heading in. He could've shoved the damn things in himself and just dragged her along; it wasn't like he was unfamiliar with where she put them. The long, sleepless nights could be boring, and early on, he'd been curious enough about her to nose through her things once or thrice. That, like this, had been quite illuminating.

"Oh, you're being such a prick today!" she yelled, yanking at his grip in an attempt to free herself. He humored her, dropping her arm and turning to face her, unpleasantly surprised as the last farmhand she'd been chatting with, the one she'd touched, came running up.

"Hey, leave her alone!" he yelled. Or, he would have, if he'd had a chance to finish.

The sound of Cooper's rifle butt cracking into the kid's face was incredibly satisfying, collapsing him into a limp, useless pile on the ground, deep crimson pooling around where he lie face-down in the dirt. The girl didn't scream, probably surprised that he hadn't outright shot him, but her hands did fly to her mouth in a quick moment of silent shock before she kneeled to quickly check his pulse, rolling his ugly mug to face the sun. Blood poured from his obviously broken nose, leaving the old ghoul wiping at his face to cover the smirk it sent twitching across his lips.

"What did you do that for?!" she demanded, frustration clear in her voice.

"Oh, my apologies, sweetheart. Your little boyfriend there was trying to join a party he wasn't invited to." he replied, though she was clearly ignoring him in favor of turning the boy onto his side and examining him.

His little companion let out a huff, casting a look between the body on the ground and the little cluster of buildings they'd just left. After a moment, she grabbed him by the fabric of his shirt the best she could and began to drag him back towards where he'd come from. The ghoul watched her pull him about five feet, red and huffing by the time she made it there, rolling his eyes deeply.

"Leave him. He'll be fine."

"He won't be if no one comes over to collect him soon, and you know it." she snarled, and her tone sent him seething, snatching the kid up over his shoulder like a sack of spuds and stomping ahead of her, depositing him unceremoniously against the ranch's handmade sign before yanking her along with him once again.

"Y'know, if you'd have just gotten in and out like I told you, that wouldn't have happened." he said eventually, dropping her arm once more.

"Oh, fuck you!" she hissed. "I was trying to see if I could talk him down on the price. And sometimes people know useful things, you know!" she yelled, exasperation clear in her tone as she threw her arms up in the air.

She pretended to be ignorant, but clearly knew what he was upset about before he specified. Interesting.

"Oh, I'm sure. Y'know, I'd wondered how long it was gonna take you to start sellin' that little ass of yours. Figured it would be for something nicer than a pistol repair or some bad intel, at least." he sneered. He could feel himself slipping further from rationality.

"What are you talking about? It wasn't even like that!" she insisted, an edge of something more worrisome creeping into her voice.

"Quit playin' dumb, doll. You make it seem too easy." he said, watching her entire face light up bright red in frustration. She was tersely quiet for a minute, the gears in her head clearly turning hard and fast as she worked to contain herself and formulate a response at the same time.

"I'm sick of you getting pissed off and treating me like I'm the stupidest person you've ever met." she spat, eventually, madder than he'd ever seen her. "I'm sorry that I haven't spent enough bitter fucking years walking around the desert and killing things and being an asshole to know everything like you do, Coop. I'm sorry I still have human emotions and desires. My sincerest fucking apologies."

That was it: the argument had officially become about...something else.

Honestly, he'd assumed that she was going to leave him a few days back, when they'd stayed in a rare hotel room waiting for a bad dust storm to settle, the little thing getting just a tad too tipsy on some whiskey he'd given her before trying to kiss him. He'd rebuffed her, though not as gently as he wished he had, and, feeling bold, she'd pushed back with surprising fervor, basically demanding to know why he wouldn't kiss her more, why he wouldn't sleep with her.

True, he felt closer to her than he'd felt to anyone or anything in a long while, and he thought she was the most beautiful woman he'd ever seen, but, as embarrassing as it was, the idea of being expected to perform sexually so suddenly made him feel a seizing sense of panic that he wasn't sure he'd ever felt before.

What he'd wanted to say was "I care about you so much, but I'm not sure I'm ready to take that step." Instead, what had come out was "Why are you buggin' me about this? I said no. Fuck off." followed by him storming out to spend several hours smoking in the decrepit, junk-walled-in parking lot.

When he'd returned, she'd been asleep, her poor face tear-swollen and red. He'd waited for her to rouse and hash it out with him, but she'd slept through the night, and, the next morning, didn't bring it up or seem amenable to discussing it. She hadn't seemed angry, necessarily, perhaps a little sad, but in the few days that had passed since, she had definitely been colder, poutier than usual.

It seemed, to him, that she was punishing him now for not doing what she'd wanted, and it was pissing him off.

It didn't matter that he hadn't fucked her yet, that he didn't feel ready to expose the most vulnerable parts of him, inside and out, so openly. She was his; she belonged to him and she knew it as much as he did. The fact that she was even still traveling with him after all this time, after what happened at the hotel that night, was proof. She proved it every single time she came back from one of her little stomp-offs every time he ticked her off, lacking the wherewithal to ever even move fully out of sight before slinking down to pout awhile, inevitably peeking out from whatever she was hiding behind to see if he was still there. Despite her lack of proper training, she was a loyal little bitch.

The fact that she suddenly didn't want to act accordingly sat entirely wrong in his mind, wriggled under his skin like when his stash ran low.

"All's I'm saying, princess," he growled, throwing out the nickname he knew she loathed once more, "is that you're too fucking friendly for your own good, and you shouldn't be shocked when it gets people hurt."

"Why would you give a shit who I'm friendly to, anyway?" she spat, suddenly pushing her way right into his bubble and sending him baring his teeth.

"I wouldn't. Didn't I made that clear enough the other night?"

He knew that this particular barb would hurt her, but he genuinely didn't expect what she did next.

"Alright, then." she said; her voice was trembling noticeably, as was her lower lip. With that, she snatched her backpack up from the ground, jammed her arms into the straps, turned, and began to walk back towards the way they'd come from. He watched her silently, waiting for her to duck back into the ranch, but she didn't; instead, she kept walking, as long as he could watch her, until she disappeared over the hill that fed into the horizon.

The old man watched her go, dumbfounded as she actually continued to walk instead of stopping as she always did. For a while, he hung around, waiting for her to come huffing back, but she still hadn't by the time the sun had fully sunk out of the sky. Eventually, he resumed moving himself, stopping after about a mile in their original planned direction, settling down for a grating night of looking out over the road at every little noise.

She'd never even looked back. He couldn't shake that thought from his mind as he sat there resting overnight. It was basically the only thought he had for hours, plaguing him as he puffed his inhaler and watched the world around him brighten with the rising sun.

When the next day started in full, he'd resolved to hit the road, to resume his travels as he would be resuming his existence before the girl had come along. Compared to how long he'd been exploring the desert solo, she'd been but a brief blip in his life, and there was no reason to fret so much over where she'd gone or what could happen to her without him around.

For some reason, he only covered about half the ground he would typically cover on a day like this, and he found himself beyond unreasonably frustrated...with himself. Nothing about the conditions was slowing him down; he didn't run into more trouble than usual, and he was fine on supplies, vials, but for some reason he found himself hypervigilant, looking for any excuse to move up high and scan the road with his binoculars.

By the time it was too dark to safely continue, he was seething once again, but at his weakness, at his cowardice. After he chose a tucked away little corner to settle down in for a few hours, he quite literally couldn't dig into his stash fast enough, doing line after line, hit after hit of whatever he had on him, until the horrible pain he felt behind his breastbone melted away into a familiar, soothing numbness.

But his numb mind liked to wander, and soon he found himself thinking about the softness of her voice, her skin, her lips against his that night...

And, quickly, he was back to pain and anger, but an irrational anger fueled by a far-more than reasonable dose of basically every kind of stimulant known to Wasteland man. This pain, too, was chased away with more and more chems, until he was so fucked up that he could barely keep his eyes focused and open.

She truly did plague him now, just as she had all the months she'd traveled with him. She plagued his thoughts at all points in the day, plagued his worries about the future, and even as he attempted to snort and huff himself free of the thought of her, she plagued him, dancing up along beside him in a quiet, stalking creep, watching him daintily from the end of the rotted log he sagged himself on, his back wedged against the large rock cluster behind him. At some point, he'd tugged his gloves off and shucked them somewhere nearby, leaving him feeling quite naked as his hands fretted with themselves absentmindedly. Against his will, he thought about running them through her hair like he'd wanted to for so long, and the unpleasant flip his stomach did made him sigh.

"I'm sorry." came a voice on the breeze, so much like hers. The visions of her were persistent, annoyingly so, the one staring hauntingly at him from the side really starting to unsettle him. He was no stranger to visual and auditory hallucinations when he was this far gone, but she was so solid-looking out of the corner of his eye, watching him so close. Judging him and what a fuck-up he was.

He squeezed his eyes shut hard, willing her away, willing himself to go back a few days and redo this entire thing differently.

"Aren't you...gonna say anything?" came the soft, timid voice once more, this time from beside him. Firmer, realer.

He narrowed his eyes in her ghostly direction, focusing as best as he could on her blurry, swimming visage.

"Huh. Didn't know that was really you."

When had she arrived, exactly? Fuck, he was dangerously gone if she'd been able to sneak up on him like that.

She frowned at that, leaning close and sizing him up with worrying eyes. Gingerly, she placed her palm on the back of his bare hand.

"Jeez, Cooper. How fucked up are you?" she asked, her tone sincere, almost apologetic.

Her glaring worry burned into him as judgment, harsh and stinging, and he struck out in response, yanking his hand away.

"Mind your fuckin' business." he slurred, forcing himself to sit up straight enough to point his full anger in her direction, growing with each passing moment. "Think you're better'n me? Hmm?"

He'd fully expected this to ignite another yelling match between the two of them, but she didn't scream back; instead, she quietly dropped her head, avoiding his eyes as she gazed around where he'd chosen to bed down. Truly, he was quite impressed she'd managed to find him at all, let alone in the dark. Turns out he was rubbing off on her even more than he'd thought. The idea left him bitter.

A big part of the anger he felt, the ugliest, most violent part, was the Jet; he knew this. The stuff had gotten him into more than his share of scuffles through the years, making him even meaner than usual, his sharp tongue exact and piercing. However, beneath the amphetamine fog, there was a nugget of true bitterness, an open wound of insecurity that pained him into lashing out when she tried to come close. He'd lashed out in such a way that night at the hotel, despite how hard he'd tried to hold back his sour words.

There was a fear there that he'd felt before, but never so strongly as when he'd watched her disappear over that hill. If she'd tried to leave over that relatively small argument, when would she try to leave again? He wasn't a pleasant man to be around, even when he actually tried to be, a lot of the time. Hell, he wasn't even pleasant to look at; if he'd been a giant prick in his old life, at the very least, he had been handsome.

Increasingly, since she'd come into his life, he tried to reach deep, deep into himself and pull out whatever remained of the old him, the one who was kind and hopeful and actually knew how to talk to women, but the process was infinitely more difficult and painful than he'd imagined.

She clearly wanted and needed intimacy from him, on more than one front, and the pressure of feeling like he couldn't give her what she needed was increasingly getting to him in a way that embarrassed him more than he could possibly say (not that he'd ever say it out loud). Centuries of time had passed, and yet, here he was, still dealing with the same anxieties and feelings of inadequacy that he had before, just dressed up in a new, uglier face.

When would he finally succeed in pushing her away, in frightening her away from him 'for her own good'? The walls around him had never failed him before, for better or worse.

Things were quiet between them as she fidgeted in her spot, the tension of an inescapable conversation in the air, but the desert's constant score, the hiss of sand across corroded asphalt, the soft rattle of the wind in the rocky hills, played on. His muddled ears played tricks on him, making him hear murmurs and distant gunshots and the crack of his rifle butt into that farmhand's face, but he tuned them out, focusing on her steadying, but increasingly heavy breathing, his eyes unable to leave her mouth..

He let himself drink in the fact that she really was there, sat on her knees in the dirt before him and already begging him for his forgiveness, for his acceptance; corporeal, flesh and blood and her sweet smell and that wet, warm place between her legs. Only in his drug-induced private fantasies had he felt it, but he knew he wanted to bury himself there, as deep as possible, and never let her pull away.

"I really am sorry, Coop." she whispered, those big, round eyes brimming with big, wet tears. It wasn't difficult to see her sincerity, even as he struggled to focus. But that hot coal of bitter anger still smoldered in his gut; not replaced by the lust he felt, but fed by it.

Slowly, his own movements labored under the weight of too many substances, he reached out and ran the thumb of his sullied glove along her smooth, smooth cheek. Smearing the trail of wetness there until he was tracing the outline of those pouty lips, he pushed it into her mouth.

"Prove it."

She let out a pitiful little retch, though whether it was from the taste of the incredibly filthy material, or because he was shoving her tongue back in her throat and gagging her with it, he didn't know. What he did know was that the sound made his cock twitch, which was already more blatant sexual desire than he'd felt in ages.

"How?" she asked, wiping at her mouth with the back of her hand as he pulled his own away. The wetness that trailed from his thumb, from her lips, made him feel feverish, and he quickly knotted his hand into the thick, soft hair at the back of her head, yanking her so close that their noses would've been touching, had he still had one. When her wide eyes met his, not so much as a sound escaping her lips at the sensation in her scalp, he finally gave in and harshly mashed his mouth to hers, swallowing the sigh that escaped her as he did.

Cooper was unsure how long they kissed, how long he plundered her swollen, eager mouth with his tongue before she stumbled onto her knees, pulling back slightly to pull air into her lungs. As she hovered there, eyes closed as she attempted to gather herself, he dug deep into the pocket of his duster and withdrew a Jet container, giving it a shake to prime it as she righted her breathing. Once she was steady once more, he cupped the back of her head again, bringing her to him and lifting it to her mouth. There was hesitation in her eyes, then disgust as the chem filled her lungs. It touched him with a twinge of amusement, knowing how badly the stuff tasted, watching her retch harder than before. He let her cough for a few seconds, allowing her a few half-cocked breaths of air before shoving the thing back between her lips and holding it down even longer.

By the time she managed to stop sputtering and drooling, he'd had a hit of his inhaler and started stroking his increasingly hard cock through his pants, watching her closely as she raised her now bleary, glassy eyes towards him. He waited for her to mouth off, to complain, to remark on anything that had happened, but instead, she sat there, unmoving, waiting for his instructions. She was the picture of obedience, but nevertheless, he could still see that glint of outrage behind her gaze, waiting to argue with him the moment she sensed an opportunity.

It pissed him off more than he thought possible, and, before he could even think to stop himself, he lashed out and slapped her across the face, the blow landing squarely in the center of her cheek and making her head turn away from him slightly. Surprising him again, she didn't make a sound, but she also didn't correct her head to look back at him.

Pulling a long drag off of the Jet inhaler himself, he held it deep in his lungs as he grabbed her by her long hair to kiss her again, exhaling the stuff right down into her lungs. She kissed him back until she choked on the sensation, leaning away to spew and cough more.

"Wanna prove you're sorry?" he hissed, his brain buzzing with the fresh hit as she leaned against his knee. "Clean my boots, vaultie. Show a little humility for once in your life."

His words were mean, meaner than he should be right now, but she didn't seem to register their full weight as she struggled to focus her eyes on the boots in question. When she lifted those dark, glassy pools back to his, he could see she knew what he meant, a heavy blush staining her cheeks and neck. Of course she knew what he meant; she was a smart girl, and her brain worked so much like his, even if she wouldn't freely admit it.

She looked up at him so dreamily through those thick lashes, though whether it was real affection in her eyes or simply the haze from all the Jet he'd forced down into her lungs, he couldn't tell.

In truth, his boots weren't as filthy as they could've been, as he'd cleaned the farmhand's blood off of them the night she'd taken off to get rid of the smell. But it wasn't about cleanliness; no, she'd humiliated him, her and her spoiled, entitled vault-dweller attitude, when she ran off, and he wanted to see her humiliate herself a little in kind.

The woman kneeling before him didn't hesitate as much as he'd thought she would, the red outline of his palm and fingers seeming to glow on her cheek in the dying firelight as she cast a vaguely-seeing glance around her, measuring her space before pulling herself into a sort of downward dog position, her round ass in the air as her marred cheek rested softly on the sandy ground. There was a moment of quiet tension as she seemed to study it, planning her approach before rather timidly leaning forward and running her tongue along the side, swiping a clean stripe across the tarnished black material from ball to toe. She gagged at first, likely from the dryness of the dust, but, again, she didn't complain.

He didn't have to tell her to clean the other boot; she did it with no prompting as soon as the first was finished, gagging less as she ran her pretty pink tongue all along the sullied, scuffed leather, and he couldn't believe how much it turned him on while equally failing to quell his indignation, his disappointment. Before she'd really finished her work, he yanked her up by her hair again; this time, she let out a slight yelp of surprise as he dropped her onto her ass, gesturing to her shabby, scavenged armor with one hand as the other began to wrestle his ammo belt, then his actual belt, open.

"Take that shit off."

Again, she did as he asked with only a moment's pause, placing all the little pieces of boiled leather and metal off to the side, her eyes flitting to him for a heartbeat before she proceeded with the rest of her clothes, quickly exposing herself completely. He could see her well in the moonlight, but not as well as he'd have liked, leaving her standing there, vulnerable and shivering ever-so-slightly as he took a good, long look at her. He was painfully hard at this point, desperate to have at least some minor relief from the confines of his trousers, but he was also uncharacteristically nervous at the idea of exposing himself to her this way. Beckoning her forward, he used her distraction as she kneeled once more to pull his cock free, grateful for the darkness and her weaker eyes.

"Suck me." he growled.

While he wasn't exactly pleased at how entirely fucked up he'd been going into this, he was sort of grateful that he couldn't feel almost anything with any vivid detail across the expanse of his body; the visual of her wrapping her dainty little fingers around him and obediently leaning down to take him into her mouth alone would have been enough to finish him if he'd have been able to feel her properly.

The way she went about it also seemed to indicate she wasn't entirely experienced, simply sliding her mouth down over his cock and setting to finding a pace that she could handle, as everything was surely spinning for her. For a while, he let her do so, fingers knotting into her hair again, before his patience wore thin and he began to push her head downwards, the sound of her gagging once more sending a thrill up his spine. Even with the numbness from the most recent hit seeping through him, he wasn't able to keep it up long before he yanked her back, taking in the drool hanging down from her swollen lips.

Cooper gave his spit-slicked cock a few firm tugs, hissing from between his worn teeth at her as he sat back, making room for her on his lap.

"Now get up here and show me you know who you belong to."

She didn't even look towards her bag, towards the condoms he knew she kept tucked deep inside her little toiletry pocket, as she quickly and sloppily pulled herself up into his lap. A part of him knew that he'd have stopped her if she did try to put one on him.

He tried so hard to not think of Barb as the pretty young thing on top of him began to sink down and envelop his cock in her heat, tried so hard to not feel guilty for giving himself to another, and he failed miserably. She felt heavenly, tighter and warmer and sweeter than he could've ever imagined, and he hated himself for how much he loved it, for how alive it made him feel when for so long he'd simply been existing. The choked noise that left his dry throat as the aching head of him fully breached her wasn't a sob, but he wouldn't have known what to call it.

It must've seemed to her, he thought, that he was forcing her to do all the work out of anger, wanting her to fully prove that she wanted him, that she was his; this was true, but he was also terrified, deep down, of how he would react if he allowed himself to freely touch her the way he wanted. He feared he would literally rip her limb from limb in his intoxicated state, sink his teeth into her pillowy flesh until it bled, tear a chunk off of her and swallow it so that she could be part of him forever.

He couldn't tell if the way she huffed and whimpered her way down his length was because she was high and hypersensitive or because she'd never been with a man this way before. That thought was quickly and harshly banished from his brain, however, his hands finding the plush fat of her hips, fingertips digging hard into the soft, supple flesh.

"Good pup." he breathed out when he eventually felt her ass rest on his thighs, fully sheathing him inside her.

The whimper she let out in response, her tight little clasp quivering around him as she clumsily reached out and braced her hands on his shoulders, made him throb hard, leaving him at least slightly grateful for his intoxication once again. If his numbed brain and body had been able to feel her fully, he knew he would've absolutely shot his load already.

Cooper struggled to stay still as she moved experimentally on top of him, lifting and lowering and grinding herself a few different ways before she found a rhythm that made him let out a throaty moan, the ghost of a smile flashing across her sleepy face as she rode away at him for a while.

What he really wanted, deep beneath all the unwanted feelings and unanswered questions about things he didn't want to think about right now, was to knock her up. For so long now he'd thought of her as his, and now that he'd claimed her, he wanted nothing more than to see her round and full to the brim of him. He wanted her to need him, to be completely dependent on him to provide for her and keep her safe.

He wanted her too vulnerable to get away from him.

On top of him, her movements were rapidly losing all coordination as her glossy, heavy eyelids drifted shut, her head nodding violently as she struggled to maintain her pace. He'd given her too much for someone who didn't use regularly, someone her size, and she was crashing out, falling asleep against her will right there. Poor thing.

He slapped her again, the sound ringing out across the vast, empty desert, watching closely as she startled back into a fully upright posture, her hips stilling for a moment before slowly beginning to churn again, her gaze unfocused.

"Mmm." she murmured groggily, leaning forward and placing her forehead against his shoulder, her arms winding around his neck as she tried her best to keep in some sort of motion.

This gesture, the way she cuddled up to him and sought comfort, support from him, even after the way he'd treated her, the fact that he'd literally just slapped her awake, was the only thing she'd done thus far that truly quelled the ugly, raging anger inside him.

"Thought this stuff was s'posed to wake you up." she sighed into the crook of his neck. She was entering the peak of her high, her body pitifully liquid against his chest as she clearly struggled to stay upright.

Personally, Cooper was reaching the un-fun part of his comedown, where everything started to feel grating and the mind began to uncloud, providing an increasingly painful level of clarity, but the senses remained muddled in a way that provided more discomfort than relief.

"Usually does. You had too much, baby." he responded, the mild chastisement in his tone doing a poor job of hiding the guilt behind it. His naked hands stroked reverently at her back, at the long, wind-swept hair that flowed down it, mindful to hold her so that she wouldn't lilt too far to one side as he attempted to soothe her.

Familiar with the unpleasant swimming sensation too much Jet could give you, he let her relax fully against him, the small sigh she let out one of gratitude as her whole body sagged even further. But she didn't stop grinding against him, probably out of some sort of pleasure for herself, he figured as he could feel her greedy insides tugging around him. He hid his grin again, this time in the crook of her neck as his hands found her hips once more, easily lifting her a few inches before dropping her down again, bouncing her on his cock as she rested.

Things went on like that for a spell, him bobbing and rocking her naked, lax body on top of his as she curled up on his shoulder, cooing and nodding off from time to time. As his high wore off, the sensitivity in his body was returning, and it made her feel more and more overwhelming as he continued to fuck her, her hot, wet little cunt leaking all over him as he continued to use her body to get himself off.

She seemed to be more conscious now than before, though barely, jostled awake by the increasing force of his thrusts up into her, bare breasts heaving with the movement. For a brief moment, he allowed himself to trace his lips down her chest, sealing them around her puffy, erect nipple and swiping his tongue along her slightly salty flesh. In response, her arms tightened around his neck, holding him on her breast as she clenched around him hard.

"Cooper." she whimpered, and that single little sound pushed him right into what felt like the most powerful orgasm he'd ever had, his fingers digging into her hips far too hard as he dropped her full weight onto him, grinding her down onto his cock and yanking her against him. His head dropped back, dead weight as he let out a feral snarl, tapering off into a throaty moan.

As he throbbed his gift up inside her, she squirmed at the feeling, tucking her bright red face into the side of his neck in what read as slight embarrassment, giving little huffs and whimpers as he continued to fill her. Another, smaller wave of guilt nagged at him as she clung to him, as he held her as close as he possibly could, struggling to regain control of his breathing; even if she'd had sex before, she'd never done this.

He held her as long as she could tolerate, her grip around him loosening slowly as she moved closer to real sleep. His girl was exhausted through and through, lightly snoozing against his chest.

For a few minutes, he let her rest uninterrupted, scanning her over to assess how badly he'd fucked up. She seemed fairly intact, though certainly more bruised than before. Eventually, he went digging into her bag, knowing (hoping) that she would have Radaway somewhere, and letting out a small sigh of relief when he found some jammed into the bottom.

Only one dose; he would have to find her more, and soon. This would be enough to see her through the next day, though, and he was pleasantly surprised to note that she wasn't showing even minor signs of radiation sickness as he found a vein in her arm, starting up the intravenous line to administer the thick, yellowed solution. Surprisingly, she didn't rouse fully when he slid the included needle into place, but she did begin to stir and groan mildly as the stuff began to effuse. Dimly, he remembered being given it when he'd been in the service, and how shitty it could make you feel.

Softly, he stroked her cheek with the backs of his bare knuckles before setting to jabbing her with a Stimpak from his bag around where she'd stuck some staples in her belly, making a note to ask her what had given her the several inches-long laceration he saw there.

He hesitated, though, when he moved to give her a dose of Med-X he'd dug out from the depths of his saddlebag. Most of the Wasteland's mind-rotting and pain-soothing substances were on the table for him, and in great amounts, but he hated the way the opiate made him sluggish and sleepy, reducing his accuracy in a fight significantly. The pain relief it provided wasn't worth it if he ended up dead anyway.

Smoothskins loved it, though, so he usually kept a few syringes on him for bartering purposes. Never did he think he'd be happy to give so much of his stash away for free.

He knew she must be hurting, or, she would be when she woke up, whenever that was. But he was hesitant to give her anything else, both for fear of how she would react, and, somewhat selfishly, because he knew a proper dose would make her sleep even longer, and he was desperate to actually get to speak with her again.

If she asked for the stuff, he'd give it to her. But...tomorrow. After they'd gotten a chance to discuss everything that had happened with cooler, more sober heads. After he was sure she wouldn't wake up in the morning and hate him for what he'd done to her.

His fingers played softly in her mussed hair as the indigo cover of night faded into the periwinkle of twilight, washing her nearly grey in his arms. She slept hard awhile, undisturbed until the awkward angle of her neck made him gently resettle her into a more comfortable-seeming position, letting her slip down until she was curled up in a ball on her side in his lap, her head supported in the crook of his elbow. Lying this way, he'd have to hold her up while she slept, but he found himself strangely excited at the prospect.

"M'sorry I ran away." she murmured suddenly after a long period of silence, readjusting herself in his lap to curl closer.

"I know, kid. I forgive you." he replied after a moment of hesitation, the words soft and strange as they formed on his lips. He petted her hair as gently as he could manage. "Did a good job findin' your way back to me, pup. Proud of you."

"Mmm. Please don't be mad at me." she echoed his own thoughts softly, so slurred as she finally began into unconsciousness that it was barely intelligible, her face buried in his side.

"I'm not." he said, fully, completely honest for once in his long life. He let his eyelids rest, his hand on his gun, ready to stop anyone who would try to ruin this quiet moment under the fading stars. "I promise. Now, get some sleep, pup. I know you came a long way today."

She sighed at that, as if to say "You have no idea." before flopping loosely into his arms, and was snoring lightly within a minute. He allowed himself a small smile at this, at how earnest and adorable she was.

"Good girl." he murmured.

[honoviadakai]

Rating Hazbin Hotel Characters based on how much I'd trust them to do a coffee run 🏨😈🎶👼

Charlie🎶🏨:

8/10

ah sweet Charlie

Dear sweet Charlotte

She would bend over backwards just to get you a cup of coffee, and that might be the main root of the problem

First of all, If 1 person asks her for coffee, everyone gets something. Everyone.

She's also gonna be a little overbearing

She means well, she really does

But if you only order something like a simple, small black coffee, be prepare to be brought a large black coffee, 2 large Frappes, a breakfast sandwich, a salad and a yogurt bowl

She's sweet but she be doing to much fr

Vaggie 🗡️🦋:

9/10

Vaggie is one of the best people in hell/the hotel you can ask to go on a coffee run for you

She's gonna go in, grab your order and get out asap

Where she loses a point is that she might accidentally get distracted by something she saw in a shop window that reminded her of Charlie

You can't even be that mad tbh cuz like...it is a cute outfit that she got for her XD

Other than the occasional distractions, she gets your order correct most of the time so shes a solid and trustworthy option

Alastor🦌📻:

-10/10

....No

Don't ask him to do any favors for you

Even an innocent coffee run might bite you in the ass later

And that's assuming he even get you what you asked in the first place!

He's either gonna bring you what asked for and be really ominous about there possibly being poison in your drink(9/10 probably poisoned it 💀)

OR

He's not bringing you anything

There is very little in between with him

He's also gonna high key judge you depending on what you order

He honestly might just get you a cup of black coffee instead of what you wanted because "It's the ✨proper✨ thing to have" 🙄

Angel Dust🕷️💕:

5/10

Listen...He means well but you can't trust him to get your order right sometimes

Hell, sometimes he'll bring you a half drunk drink cuz he just couldn't resist taking a sip 🤦🏻

He’s probably gonna forget what you asked for halfway to the café tbh

If he’s not feeling lazy he’ll call/text you and ask you to repeat your order

If he’s feeling lazy….may the odds be ever in your favor

It’s better to go with him tbh

He’ll even making it a day for the two of you

I mean who doesn’t wanna go shopping with this guy?🛍️😎

Husk🐈‍⬛🥃:

10/10

This man may be an alcoholic but he’s got job security for a reason!(Aside from, you know…Alastor 💀)

Memorizing orders is part of a bartender’s job so he’s gonna have your order memorized after you’ve said it once

He might complain but he’s out the door pretty quick for someone who just said he’d rather eat lead than go grab coffee for you XD

He also comes back quickly too

Mans does not mess around

He’s got a task to complete and he’s gonna do it asap so he can get back to the bar damn it! 😤

Efficient old kitty is efficient

Niffty🪡🐞:

2/10

…..I love this woman to death but I feel like trusting her to get you coffee is a death sentence…

If you see her preparing a coffee in the Hotel’s kitchen, go ahead and trust it, it’s probably pretty good

But sending her off to a café….

Best case scenario, she stabbed someone for their order because it was exactly what you asked for

Worse case scenario….the entire coffee goes up in flames because someone upset Nifty….

Please…for everyone’s safety….get it yourself

Sir Pentious🐍🥚:

3/10

He’s a leggless golden retriever and you know it

He’s gonna agree to get you your coffee with 1000% enthusiasm

This is gonna go down 1 of 2 ways…

Option 1: egg boys

Don’t let them go

Lord only knows when they’ll be back

They will deadass come back at 3am with a cheeseburger and 5 packs of ranch

No coffee…

Option 2: Snake boy

This option…is at least more likely to get you some coffee

Here’s the problem….

Pentious is a smart guy…sometimes…

And for some reason, he just can’t seem to remember your order

So by the time he gets to the café’s doors, your order is forgotten

And instead of maybe calling or texting you…he slithers ALLLLLLL the way back to ask you what you wanted….

Please just go with him….let him feel like he’s doing a good job

Please 🙏

[orchid-and-bone]

Could I have a John x fem reader where the reader reacts to John winning (but still beat tf up) in a bar fight?

Thanks bestie <3

Eyyy of COURSE you can bestie?! I have been practicing writing John, and I may not be the best, but I think I'm confident in my abilities. I think. But here, have a fun, flirty little brawl with your man~

"Trouble" ||

John Marston x f!Reader

Length: 2.1k

Rating: Mature: Mentions of blood, fighting, language

How John ended up in this situation was honestly beyond him, it was just an innocent outing with you and him running some errands for the ranch, and yet he was getting fist after fist pounded into his face. 

After a long day of working, you could tell he was going stir-crazy. His old life was all about freedom and running around, doing things to bring in money or just getting to do as he pleased, but now? He was on a ranch, pretending to be someone he wasn’t to get by, and his trigger finger was beginning to itch. But to make you happy, to keep your heads low, and to survive, John had to behave and live as his persona for the time being. 

“So, Jim,” you said with a smirk, “maybe we should stop at a saloon since it’s getting dark, we could eat a decent meal, maybe stay in a hotel for the night. I’m tired,” you sighed and leaned your head against the man’s shoulder. 

John matched your sigh and flicked the reigns on the horses as he pulled them to the right, heading into Valentine's territory, which he hadn’t expected to be back here so soon. “I mean, it is a long way back, we could use the rest. And I am starvin’, could use something that isn’t a stew for once.” 

You both pulled the wagon off and made sure the horses were comfortable, hitched to a nearby post, and then John helped you down to the ground and smiled wide with his arm wrapped around your waist. “Well, let’s get inside, maybe we can get a bath before bed, too,” he said softly with a smirk. He pulled you along and walked beside you, looking around the town that felt so different from when he was last here. 

As you both entered the saloon, you definitely could tell that the environment was more lively, but you both tried to keep your wits about you as you ordered some food and sat in the corner, away from the rowdy group of people. The food was delicious and the conversation you shared was pleasant, as usual, but John couldn't shake the feeling that eyes kept falling on you both. He'd look away from you as he stopped mid-sentence to see one of the men staring at the both of you, but he tried to pay no mind, you were taking his attention. 

The food was finished and you both were feeling content, the party of people in the saloon only grew larger in number and louder in volume, so you both figured it was time to head out to the hotel for the evening. John allowed you to walk out first so he could follow behind you, but you had barely gotten several steps toward the door when one of the men stepped in front of your path, blocking you from the exit.

“Hey there now, y'all ain't plannin’ on comin’ over to celebrate with us?” 

“Sorry, friend, but we have other plans to attend to,” John answered firmly. 

The man just scoffed, the reek of booze was strong on his breath, it was a wonder he was still standing. “Aww c'mon, my friend over there is gettin’ married, you could have one drink to congratulate him!”

“Sorry sir, but we don't even know you,” you said sharply, stepping back from him, and bumping into John. You felt a bit more at ease since he was here.

“And? You ain't heard of makin’ friends?” The man chuckled and grabbed your arm, pulling you along toward the table. He then decided to yank your arm and attempt to pull you over toward the table, but John stepped up and grabbed his wrist hard. 

“We ain't interested, sir. My woman and I are heading out for the evenin’, so maybe next time you should use your brain and not touch a lady when she says no.” 

John pushed the man away so you both had room to leave, but some of the drunk’s friends decided to get involved. 

John stepped up protectively, his spine stiffened as his hand hovered over the knife that was holstered, hidden beneath his jacket. “Sir, you got till the count of three to back off and leave us alone,” he warned. 

There had been a taller man who stood up from the table and interjected, pushing his friend gently off to the side. “Are you threatenin’ us?” He snapped. 

“I ‘spose I am,” John retorted, holding his ground as he pushed you further behind him to shield you. 

Another of the man's friends stepped up and tried to land a surprise swing on John, but he pushed you out of the way and took the hook to his shoulder. After that, John was brawling with several of the men who ganged up on you both. The one in the red shirt had tried to grab John to put him in a headlock so his friends could take their turns wailing on him, but your John was fast. He elbowed Red and kicked his leg in, causing the man to fall flat on his face.

That was one down—three more to go.

“I ain’t been in a bar fight in a long time,” John commented as he had both arms up, ready to block any attacks if needed, “but I’d rather continue my night with my lady if you gentlemen don’t mind.”

The three other men all ignored him and each one tried to punch him at different intervals to throw him off, but somehow, John managed to throw one man into the other and watched as the two tumbled straight into a table. The others who occupied the saloon were standing back and vacating the building. The bartender just sighed and walked off, not wanting to be part of yet another brawl. That left you, standing on the stairs away from the tussle. 

The gunslinger looked back and you, making sure you were out of harm's way, then he got back to it. The two men who collided with the table were too drunk to stand, and all they did was stumble over one another. There was one left standing, and he was a little larger than the others. 

“Look, I can just leave, no reason you gotta get involved,” John said nonchalantly, his stance easing up a little.

The man just glared down at him and he scoffed at the offer. “You ruined my engagement celebration, mister, I don’t take so kind to that.”

John just sighed and lifted his hands again, balling them into fists. “Alright then, have it your way,” he replied.

The man took a fast step forward and swung his fist straight at John’s jaw, and if it weren’t for the speed, maybe John would have dodged it, instead, he got nicked against his chin, which still caught him enough to cause some pain. That was all the distraction the man needed to step in and lunge at John, his larger body barreled into him and tackled him to the floor.

You let out a yelp, terrified that the man was going to have a one-up on John, and all you could do was watch in fear as your hands gripped the railing in fear. 

The gunslinger was pinned onto the floor as the man above him threw punch after punch, landing a blow on his cheek, and almost breaking his nose at one point. John held up his arms to block and tried his best to use the strength from his legs to somehow get him to slip off, and he managed to throw the man off of him for a split second. He scrambled to find some balance, then rolled off to the side as the man recovered. 

“Give up yet?” John asked with a smirk on his face as he licked the blood from his split lip, the bruises on his face forming fast.

The man just yelled out in frustration and then John had him in a blind frenzy, which made any man messy in a fight. John ducked from the swing and swung his right arm quickly, the blow landed in the side of the man’s temple, stunning him momentarily. Then it was over, John was finally standing over him and landing punch after punch in the man’s face until he fell unconscious. The gunslinger released the man’s collar, allowing his body to fall slack onto the wooden floor. 

He looked up at you, panting to catch his breath as he straightened his posture. The people who occupied the saloon had all either hidden somewhere or run off, and there were just the two of you left with the pile of unconscious men scattered about on the floor. You waited a moment before hesitantly walking down the stairs to run into his arms, thankful he was alright despite being a little black and blue. 

“As always you’re my hero,” you chuckled and reached up to touch his face, wiping away a smear of blood from his lip. 

“And as always, we’re both gettin’ into trouble,” he replied gruffly.

You just scoffed. “We?” 

“Well yeah, you’re my accomplice, partner in crime, ain’t you?” He asked as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. “Plus you’re the one always gettin’ the attention,” John teased as he slipped his arm through yours. He pulled you along and threw a couple of bills onto the countertop, then escorted you outside and across the muddly way, leading you straight to the hotel. 

You both walked inside, the environment a complete flip from the saloon, and you were more at ease now, and even more thankful when you saw the list of services. The gentleman behind the counter stopped sweeping the floor and greeted you both with a kind smile.

“Howdy, how can I help y’all this evenin’?” He looked between the both of you with concern but didn’t voice them. 

Your eyes looked over at John with a smile and then back at the desk man. “One bath and one room, please.”

The man smiled and got everything situated for you both, you thanked him and paid, then pulled John up the stairs to the bath. He followed obediently and cracked his neck as he ascended the stairs with you, groaning.

“Sleepin’ is gonna be a bitch, I just know it,” he complained.

“Well if you behaved for five minutes you wouldn’t have to worry about it, would you?” You scolded playfully as you looked over your shoulder at him. “He got some good hits in, but not gonna lie, Mister Marston, you looked really good kickin’ his ass.” You flashed him a cheeky smile and continued to lead him to the bath. “You go get cleaned up, I’ll get the room ready.” 

You almost walked away, leaving him in front of the bath door, but his hand grabbed your wrist, and then he pulled you back toward him, falling into him as his arms wrapped around you. “Yeah? You think I looked good, huh?” He asked flirtatiously, pulling you close so his face was mere inches from yours. “Then why do you think you can just leave me here alone?” “John Marston, are you implyin’ I’m gonna join you in your bath?” You gasped, faux shock crossed your features. 

All he could do was smile, the raised edges of the scars across his face made his face look extra handsome, and the dim lighting in the hall only made you admire his face even more. “Nah, I’m declarin’ that you are, unless you don’t wanna?” His hands cupped your cheeks, pulling you into the most tender kiss he could manage. 

When he pulled away, your eyes fluttered open and you just stared up at him with a lovestruck smile. “Well, when you put it that way…”

That was all the confirmation he needed, so he opened the door to the readied hot bath, pulling you in after him, and you couldn’t help but giggle as he closed the door behind you both. You sighed as he leaned your hands against his chest, just smiling up at him with that look.

“I know that look, what is it?” 

“Nothin’, you’re just trouble, John Marston,” you said softly, your hand cupped his cheek again, mindful of how gentle you had to be. “But I wouldn’t change it for the world, you know that, right?”

The man looked down at you and pulled you into another kiss, pulling away a moment later with that charming smile you were unable to resist, his hand reached up to brush your hair away from your face so he could see the light in those pretty eyes of yours. Just a minor setback to your shared evening, but John always had ways to make it up to you. 

[creedslove]

HEARTLESS 💔 - PART NINETEEN

Agent Whiskey (Jack Daniels) x f!reader

Summary: Jack needs to go on a mission and leave you and Wyatt at home; it hurts him but he needs to get the job done, at the same time you and your son prepare yourselves for Halloween 🎃

(This is the nineteenth chapter of my HEARTLESS 💔 series)

• PART ONE TO EIGHTEEN ON MY MASTERLIST

Warnings: fluff, a little bit of angst and overall no other warnings to avoid spoilers so you are on your own here besties

A/N: I missed our cowboy so much, my besties! As this is almost the end of our lovely story, we need to let him and sugar go with their happy ending, but of course there's still some Halloween treats going on. Also, kind of obvious but this chapter takes place on Halloween

5.8k words

If someone asked Wyatt exactly what a marriage was, he wouldn't be able to explain it properly, he didn't understand much about grown up stuff, it was boring and his little life of playing with animals and with his toys and eating his mommy's delicious food while being a cowboy with his daddy was way more important to him; however, Wyatt had watched enough cartoons to know that mommies and daddies lived together with their babies and his dad had told him that if his mommy accepted his surprise, then that would happen to them and he was excited about that.

Wyatt was so willing to have you and his daddy together for good, he took all the instructions Jack had given him seriously, because he wanted everything to be perfect for you, he wanted his mommy to be happy with his daddy after all, and for that, he would help Jack do whatever he needed, but luckily, his daddy's first instruction, apart from being completely silent about the beautiful, glowing ring, Wyatt was asked to act as normal as possible, so he could surprise you when the moment was right, and so was it that the next few days went by completely normal, you and Jack were going strong in your recent relationship as Wyatt was enjoying farm life more and more, and the very few times you actually had to go back to the city in order to pick up more clothes, check on your apartment and make sure everything was in order, your son was each time sadder and sadder to leave the ranch. He had everything he ever loved in there, a life with his mommy and daddy, animals, Silver Pony and Silver Star and the mere prospect of having to go back to the city scared him to death. He loved his home and his family and he had made up his little mind he wouldn't leave without a fight. Luckily to him, you also had no plans of returning to the city, as the weeks passed and your relationship progressed with Jack, you didn't see the need of returning permanently to the city. Of course it was still necessary to do so, eventually for some doctor appointments, shopping for new clothes and stuff like that, but if you were going to be honest with yourself, you also didn't see you and your son going back to a small, cramped apartment once you got used to that gorgeous ranch. It was beautiful, spacious and it had everything you needed; not to mention you had re-encountered love once more. Saying you weren't madly in love with that stupid cowboy would be a huge lie, it's not that you had ever fallen out of love with him, you hadn't, even during the worst time of your life and how cruel he'd been to you; you should have done it though, however, you simply couldn't. Even during the hard moments in which you burned with anger at the mere thought of what he'd done to you, that intense love was just there, underneath all. You had both dreamed and dreaded the moment Whiskey would walk back into your life not knowing what to do, and even if it was hard at first, then you were thankful it happened in a way you are able to see Jack really meant his feelings and you both couldn't fight the passion any longer, even if you still felt a paralyzing fear of being hurt, you decided to trust your man in your own terms: he had a chance, the only and final one, and in case he did anything to ruin that, then you and him would be history.

Luckily to you and Wyatt, Jack was nothing but the best and most caring boyfriend and father; all he wanted was to make sure you and your son were happy and well. He would spoil the two of you and do anything in his power so you would be next to him. He loved you more than anything in the world and his son was the most precious little thing he could ever ask for. He was taking care of his family like he should have from the beginning and there was no stopping him this time. That's why he went over his plan with Wyatt for several days, talking to his son and using his help to form an alliance in order to make you the best proposal he could think of. Yeah, you two had been engaged before your son's birth, but you didn't want it to be like that, especially because you both had come to an agreement of having a new beginning. So Jack kept your former engagement in a box and locked it in his closet, it was a pretty ring, but he still remembers coming home still feeling hot headed after the argument you two had over the revelation of your pregnancy. One of, if not the biggest regret he'd ever had in his life was definitely his reaction towards the news that changed both of your lives. He didn't know what to say or what to do after you broke the news to him, it was in fact, as if he had stopped processing facts for a while. However, when he finally realized what had happened it was as if something had broken inside of him, he felt as if he had lost the ground under his feet and above all, he felt betrayed, as if it didn't matter to you the family he had previously lost. Of course Jack knew that wasn't it, he knew he was severely mentally ill at the time and that was a reflection of it, and yet, he also knew he should have been a decent man for you and your son. But instead, he'd told you unspeakable things, he'd made you the vilest proposition someone could ever think of - for you to choose between him and your son - and he left you crying, on your own and went to a bar to get wasted.

When he came back home, all he found was the silence and emptiness he felt surrounded him and also around him. Your clothes, belongings, accessories, everything that made that home a little more yours than just his were gone, and the only proof you'd ever been there was the engagement ring you left on his pillow. You'd made your choice; you'd chosen your son.

So that was the whole reason why he thought it would be a nice idea to get you a new engagement ring, he had a feeling the previous ring carried a lot more negative meaning than the two of you would like to admit. Besides, he got to choose a brand new jewelry for you, not sparing any money - one of the greatest advantages of being a high profile Statesman employee after all. After gathering his son's help, Jack waited for the perfect moment, he was anxious and nervous, as he hadn't really planned on a specific scenario, instead, he tried to find a suitable time and place, feel in his heart when it should happen, preferably when Wyatt was also around, as your son showed great interest in it, being a supporter of the idea since the beginning.

It happened in the late afternoon, just a regular day of the week that ended up becoming one of the most special days of your life. You and your family had gone for a horse ride, Jack deciding - with your agreement - that Wyatt was already old enough to learn how to ride a horse, you three stopped by at the stables but the little boy went with Silver Star, which didn't stop her from trying to running and that lead your cowboy to use his lasso to stop her and your son from going too fast. On one hand you were a little scared, your heart racing from seeing your baby boy looking so big and independent from his parents, but also a huge wave of pride to see him becoming a cowboy just like his dad.

You'd made a basket with treats and sandwiches in order to have a picnic and the moment you three settled by the willow trees - one of your favorite places at his ranch - and Jack realized the sun was setting, creating the perfect atmosphere of laughter, happiness and a beautiful landscape. He winked and nodded at his son showing him it was time to propose to his mommy. Wyatt clapped his small hands in excitement and watched intently while the cowboy got on his knees in front of you, taking your hand and professing you love words. You knew what was happening, but at the same time it felt like you didn't, as your heart was racing so much and the tears simply couldn't stop clouding your vision. You held your breath the moment he showed you a brand new engagement ring, it was one of the most beautiful jewelry you'd ever seen in your life and there was no way you could ever say no to that.

The moment Jack finally asked you the question, proposing to you and you said yes, it was as if time had stopped and there were only the three of you in the world, your happy little family, you, your son and your future husband. You had said yes and that was how you were officially engaged to Jack Daniels once more.

•••

"Sugar, listen to me…" Jack placed his hands on your waist and pulled you closer "it will be a short mission, in a few days I'll be back home, I ain't even looking towards any women, you know they don't compare to you. I've never been unfaithful to you and I ain't starting now sugar…"

You could see the honesty and pleading in his eyes and even if it was recomforting to be assured like that by him and acknowledge how dedicated he was to you, however, you would be over the moon if your concern was reduced to only a bunch of whores throwing themselves onto your man.

"Cowboy, it's not it, I mean, I know you're faithful and I'm also faithful to you, and I will always be… but I'm scared and worried. You remember what happened on your last mission… I don't want that to happen again, I mean, I don't even want to think of the slightest possibility of it, please. You have a family now, me and Wyatt, you are leaving us home, but we want you here with us" You used just about the same pleading eyes in order to convince your cowboy to stay, you couldn't place your finger exactly on why you were so anxious and needy, but if it were up to you, you'd use his lasso to keep him tied down to your bed, not letting him leave at all. You felt so vulnerable without even understanding why, but your biggest desire was to be held by him and assured he wouldn't move an inch away from you. He placed his hands on the side of your face and stroked your cheek so gently, affection and love pouring from him as he saw you looking so helpless at that moment. He leaned in for a kiss and smiled

"It will be fine, sugar. It will be just a few days as I said, I'll be alright, keep my ass safe… you know it's an emergency, that's why Champ called me, I will call you every day, and I'll make sure to keep you updated, I have a gorgeous family to come home to, and I ain't never let that go, now please, help me out because I can't have two sad puppy faces staring at me like that without breaking my heart" he pointed at Wyatt who pouted and looked at his daddy's bag. You felt emotional and didn't know exactly what to do, but you nodded, as your future husband needed help. He was the best damn agent that place had ever seen, of course he would come back home safely.

You wiped your tears and lowered yourself, picking up your son and snuggling him.

"Don't be upset my angel, daddy will be gone just for a little while, right daddy?!" You looked at him, who picked up the cue and nodded

"Yeah buddy, daddy will be away for a couple of days to work, but I need you to be a strong cowboy and take care of mama, can you do that for me?" Wyatt nodded reluctantly, his red eyes almost making the cowboy turn around and give up the idea of going to work. He couldn't though, otherwise he would've done it once for all. The cowboy couldn't resist the urge of wrapping his arms around his son, pulling him for a tight embrace.

"You know daddy loves you and mama more than anything in the world, right? It will be for a short while, and soon enough I'll be here for you, remember you wanted to go out trick or treating? Daddy promises he will be back before Halloween, okay?"

After Wyatt nodded, sighing but snuggling him and you also pulled him into a real needy and long hug, leaving home to go on a mission was definitely the hardest task that cowboy had done; he questioned himself if he was doing the right thing, after all, when he got suspended from Statesman, all he wanted to do was get back on the field and show them all he was still a top notch agent, the best they'd ever had and that he could handle any kind of situation, but once he saw how his family felt anxious and upset about him leaving, he felt tortured to go to work, he didn't have to, he had plenty of money and wouldn't need to work violent and dangerous job now he was settling down once more. Still, he felt like he owed that to Champ, even if he disappointed the older man with his bad conduct during the last mission, they still shared a very special bond - Jack was like the son Champ never had, and the younger cowboy envisioned the older one as a fatherly figure. No wonder why Jack ended up only in therapy after nearly sabotaging such a serious mission instead of going to prison. He hopped on his Bronco and drove to the headquarters, trying not to think much of his broken heart to be gone.

The first night was rough without your cowboy, even if Whiskey had called, and then he had video chatted and talked to both you and Wyatt, it was still so sad and lonely without him. Worse than the years you spent alone with your son, the absence of Jack now was depressing, after staying with him, living almost an endless honeymoon it was upsetting to say the least. That night, your sweet Wyatt snuggled closer to you in bed and you only fell asleep with your face buried deep into his curls.

What really changed your routine happened the morning after Jack left; it was as if you knew something was up but you couldn't actually get a hold of it, instead, you simply woke up with the worst wave of nausea you'd ever witnessed. It was odd, you hadn't had dinner the night before nor eaten anything suspicious, so the first thought that crossed your mind was immediately dismissed. You couldn't and you wouldn't.

As much as you tried to push aside those thoughts, they insisted on coming back whenever you got distracted, you tried your best keeping your mind busy, focusing on the son you actually had. So you and Wyatt spent most days together, playing, cooking and baking, even if the slightest food smell made you feel sick to your stomach and riding and petting the horses. You knew Halloween was approaching and Wyatt was excited to go trick-or-treating, as it was going to be the first ever Halloween his daddy would be a part of it and even if you two had actually to drive downtown to do it, as the ranches were too apart from each other, you still promised him you would carve the pumpkins with your son, and you sort of kept your promise, if it weren't for the fact the moment you began cutting open the pumpkins, the smell was enough to make your stomach twist and you had to rush to the bathroom, however, this time wasn't possible to hide it from your son, which caused Wyatt to run to you worriedly

"Are you okay mommy?" He asked you while placing his small hands on your back "can we call daddy please?"

You shook your head and smiled weakly at him

"No baby, mommy is fine, I just got a tummy bug, that's all" you assured him, even though you knew there was more to it and you simply just didn't want to admit it. You asked your son for a bottle of water from the fridge as you grabbed your phone and checked the app you used to keep your cycle in check and even if you knew the answer, a part of you was still so stubborn you couldn't bring yourself to believe it. Taking turns between checking your app and the calendar, you sighed and closed your eyes, letting yourself digest the information that your period was late.

There was a huge chance you were pregnant again.

You couldn't sleep at all that night, tossing and turning in bed and playing the most different scenarios in your head. Jack would be happy, wouldn't he? He was the one who was insisting on having a baby, but you also terrified yourself at the possibility that maybe, he was just trying to convince you to marry him. What if he changed his mind and panicked? What if he never came back from the mission? No, you shook your head and squinted your eyes, trying to physically keep your anxiety away from you. The very little you managed to doze off were filled with dreams about you and the cowboy getting into a huge fight and breaking up. That was something that couldn't happen, you knew your heart wouldn't take that kind of disappointment for a second time, and if he even threatened to walk away from you both, well, from you three, you would never see him again.

But a part of you desperately begged you to calm down and relax a little, maybe you weren't even pregnant, you couldn't say for sure without a test, and all of that could've been just a mind trick after panicking so much at the idea your body actually began reproducing that kind of symptoms. It wasn't the first time your period was that late and it could have been a stomach bug, after all you hadn't been eating well since your cowboy left you a week ago. There was still at least another one to come and the idea of actually buying yourself a pregnancy test was horrifying. However, since Wyatt started asking you to dress up as a zombie cowboy, you knew you would have to buy him some things such as fake bruises stickers and a costume hat, as you wouldn't risk ruining the beautiful and expensive stetson Jack had gifted your son. It would be the perfect excuse, you would do some Halloween shopping and also get yourself a test, everything would be just fine, you assured yourself, after all, you still had a small hope in your heart things were nothing but your mind playing tricks on you.

The next morning, while Wyatt went to get dressed as fast as he could so you both could go out and get him his costume, you watched yourself in the mirror. We're your breasts larger? You didn't know if they actually were or if you were under the wrong impression, if Whiskey had been there, he would be able to tell it immediately. In fact, he would probably be the first one to even notice it. Then you stared at your stomach, was it a little swollen or you were just getting paranoid? As you were lost in your thoughts with your blouse lifted you felt tiny hands on your tummy and looked down at Wyatt's smiley face staring at you

"You look so pretty, mommy!" He said happily and smiled big at you, his small arms wrapping around your waist as he rested his head against your womb and sighed deeply. He was an affectionate boy, but he had never done that before… Why start it now?

You stroked his curls very gently and lowered yourself to his level

"Do you think mommy looks different?" You asked

"No, just pretty" he shrugged happily and ran outside the bedroom.

•••

Another week had passed without any confirmation nor denial; you simply didn't have the guts to take that test and see for yourself if you were indeed pregnant or not. You talked to your cowboy every single night, and even if he thought it was odd you weren't up for some web sex with him, he didn't push it, as you simply lied by saying you were on your period. Whiskey could tell something was off, but he assumed it was just a combination of his absence and your tiredness. Besides, Wyatt was staying up later each night, so he could talk to his daddy which caused you both to behave yourselves.

You had taken Wyatt out for shopping, he'd bought as many Halloween things he wanted, you also bought some extra candy just in case some trick or treaters passes by the ranch, which you thought it wouldn't happen, but you didn't want to risk not having any and while your son was too distracted by the shampoo aisle - you'd asked him to pick the best shampoo to wash his hair - you grabbed your pregnancy tests. Tests. Because you wouldn't trust just one, so you decided three would be a decent enough number. It broke your heart to see how sweet Wyatt was the moment he spotted a mother shopping with her baby girl. The moment he saw her, he giggled and rushed to them "look mommy! A cute baby!!!" Wyatt had squealed just as you hid the tests under a bunch of other stuff you followed him, smiling at how sensitive your son was. You nodded and agreed with him, playing with his soft curls.

Not only that, after the episode, Wyatt spent the whole week asking you about babies. If you thought they were cute, if he was a nice baby, if you and his daddy had a baby would it be a normal baby or would it be a cowboy baby. In other circumstances, you would be very amused by his questions, but given what was going on, you felt extremely anxious about it. Perhaps that was the whole reason why you kept postponing the test for days; however, you knew Jack was about to come home any day now, and you needed to have an answer, it wasn't fair to you or him, not to mention he would see right through you and figure something was definitely wrong. So the day before Halloween, you made your son dinner - chicken nuggets, mashed potatoes and peas, his favorite - and played with him until he fell asleep. When you were sure you wouldn't be interrupted, you finally took courage, grabbed your tests and followed the instructions.

And the wait began.

And it felt like forever, until the whole three of them showed the lines indicating that indeed, you were pregnant.

You didn't react for several minutes, perhaps it was the shock, even if you deep down inside already knew you were expecting a baby. You were going to be a mom, again. You got pregnant by the man who abandoned you and your son once, would it go wrong this time? You didn't want to believe it, at the same time you were flooding with all kinds of anxious thoughts and feelings. You wish you could just curl up on the couch and fall asleep until you could come up with a solution to that situation, but Wyatt's fast steps drew your attention "mommy!!! Help me get dressed!!!" He giggled as he barged in his cowboy outfit, holding his fake blood and wound stickers. His excitement was so adorable, it made your heart warm at how cute he really was. You wrapped your arms tight around him, pulling him closer and snuggling your son. He was a little confused at your affection but giggled "help me mommy!" He asked as he couldn't wait to go out.

The moment you saw your son, your heart warmed and filled with love, he was so precious, the most important little thing in your life, and you'd just learned you were growing a new life inside of your womb, his baby brother or sister, you didn't know, but at that moment, only Wyatt mattered, the way he looked so excited, his little chocolate eyes glimmering you decided you would stop feeling sorry for yourself, you were a grown woman, you had been through a pregnancy once and you could do it a second time. No matter if your cowboy was going to step up or not, though you hoped really hard he would, you would focus on your son, making sure he had the Halloween he had waited for all along.

•••

Wyatt jumped excitedly, although he still held your hand and smiled big

"I got a lot of candies, mommy!!!" He giggled as you carried his bag which was indeed way heavier than what it could be considered healthy. His costume was adorable, a mix of zombie and a cowboy as he fit in perfectly with the other kids. You had driven downtown where all the people gathered and enjoyed the festive day, seeing how your life would be like for the following years. You knew Jack had no intentions of moving away, definitely not going to the city, which you also agreed. You liked that atmosphere, the small town kind of warmth, it was nice and you also remembered you would need to start looking for a new school for Wyatt. And not only that, you would need to care for a whole new baby, and Jack wasn't even there to calm you down. And that was when it hit you: he hadn't called you that night, even worse, he had promised you and Wyatt he would spend Halloween with you both, as a family, but instead, he had established no communication and a wave of anxiety and worry rushed through you as you began picturing the worst possible scenarios. The story of Jack nearly dying his last mission, the cruelty of the death he nearly faced still haunted you and you would be lying if you didn't wake up quite a few times at night after having a nightmare about losing your cowboy. You couldn't give into those horrible thoughts, not at that moment, your son was happy, you were spending a very nice time together and if it weren't for the fact a lasso wrapped around you and Wyatt, making you both stop dead in your tracks…

And a lasso?!

You and Wyatt exchanged confused looks before turning around and facing Whiskey's shit eating grin as he was in his fight position, lasso in hands and looking every bit of devilish handsome he always did. Damn, stupid pregnancy hormones.

"DADDY!!!" Wyatt's deafening squeal was enough for Whiskey to loosen the rope around you both as he opened his arms to receive his son's sweet hug. They had missed each other so much, he couldn't even believe he had actually had the guts to leave his family to go on a mission, but the important thing was that he was back, in time to spend one of his son's favorite holidays. He wrapped his arms around Wyatt and snuggled him, kissing the top of his head and ruffing his hair gently, loving his costume, and chuckling at the enthusiasm in which your son told his daddy every single little thing that happened the days he spent away. And then it was your turn to rush to your cowboy, being too emotional after everything that happened, including the mini internal meltdown you had at the mere fear he had died during the mission, you rushed to him, wrapping your arms around his neck and kissing him deeply. Your cowboy was finally back home, to you and your family, and you couldn't be happier as you needed him more than anything now.

Jack was so happy at the warm welcome he received from his family and he knew that was exactly what he wanted all along; he wanted to have a good reason to come back home to, and now he had it. He wrapped his arm around your waist and pulled you for another kiss, he saw how beautiful you were, you were almost glowing and there was something different about you even if he couldn't actually tell what it was.

"I missed you sugar" he whispered against your lips and looked down as Wyatt kept tugging at his sleeve, wanting to spend some time with his daddy, after missing him desperately

"Come on daddy, let's trick or treat!" Wyatt begged with his cute puppy face, his energy restored to the fullest now he was surprised by the wave of excitement at the fact his father was there, for him and for his mommy.

•••

Jack had returned from his mission just about an hour before meeting his family, he thought of calling you and let you both know, but instead, he decided to surprise you and it couldn't have been better. He knew you two would be downtown, so it wasn't difficult to spot his family, but as much as he wanted to come closer, you were both walking fast at a reasonable distance from him, so the best idea that came to his mind was simply using his lasso on the two of you, which was both funny and cute, since you never saw it coming, but to him, the best part was when the two of you rushed to him, as if he'd been gone for months instead of just two weeks. It made his heart clench with love and affection, he was finally home, with his family and he cherished that like no other. The way they spent the rest of the evening walking around, getting Wyatt more candy, then they stopped by a small cute place to have some corn dogs and then the three of you headed home.

Wyatt only fell asleep after hours home, he had eaten some of his candy, while you figured what you'd do with the rest of it since it was way too much. Your cowboy had barely taken off his jacket and was already all over Wyatt, leaving you some time for yourself, in which you showered, and got ready for bed. You still didn't know how or when you'd break the news to him, but you felt your stomach twisting the moment you saw him walking towards you with a bottle of wine. You couldn't drink that, what were you supposed to say? Luckily to you, Jack hadn't insisted and even if he was a little suspicious, he didn't question you why you'd said you had a headache, though he seemed a little disappointed to miss you the opportunity to have a drink with you, he still kissed your lips gently and went to shower, needing the relaxation and the hot water pouring over his sore shoulders. He was so happy to be home, all he wanted was to finish his warm shower and get under the covers with his sugar, so he could relax and enjoy a moment of peace. Once he finished showering, he decided to shave, wanting his face to be smooth as possible in case his sugar decided to ride her cowboy. It didn't take him too long to finish, just a little trim on his mustache and he would be good to go. He didn't know exactly why he looked down, at the trash can, but for whatever reason he did it, and at first when he saw those boxes in it, he thought maybe they were antibiotic boxes, but that didn't make any sense, if either you or Wyatt got sick to the point of getting antibiotics you would've said something, so the cowboy squinted his eyes in order to take a better look at it and felt his heart skipping a beat the moment he realized it was indeed a pregnancy test.

In fact, it wasn't just a pregnancy test, there were quite a few boxes, which meant you really made sure to know whatever the result was. Now, it deeply saddened him to know why you hadn't said anything, you hadn't even mentioned the suspicions you had; and it also made sense why you were acting a little off. Jack shook his head and swallowed hard, he had desired to have a baby with you, another one, to give your son a baby brother and sister, and it hurt him to see you decided to be silent about it because he had hurt you way too many times. However, he couldn't simply shrug it off and pretend nothing had happened, he needed to talk things through and for that, he took the proof into his hands and went after you.

•••

When you heard Jack calling your name instead of 'sugar' you knew something was wrong. You swallowed hard, knowing something was up, just by the way he walked towards you. Your heart neatly dropped the moment you saw exactly what he was carrying. That was not how you wanted him to find out about things, you wish you had prepared him beforehand, talked to him or perhaps prepared him a cute surprise, you weren't sure, but you were so scared.

"Is this what I think it is? Are you really pregnant sugar?"

"I-I am so sorry Jack, I didn't mean to get pregnant, it was an accident, I didn't want to do that, please don't be mad and don't leave us, please" you begged but you were interrupted by the cowboy falling onto his knees in front of you. He wrapped his arms around your waist and with tears in his eyes, he lifted your shirt up only enough to see your belly. He placed an affectionate kiss to it and rested his head against it in complete silence. He didn't need to say anything else, he was hopelessly in love with the fact he was going to be a father again and this time he would do things right.

____

A/N: I hope you besties enjoyed this chapter, because the next one will be the end of this beautiful series 🥺❤️

[annaphoenix1994]

The First Stepping Stone

Previous Chapter - Masterlist - Next Chapter

»»-------¤-------««

"Good morning, Simon." Bud nodded at him while leaning against the panel that held up the round pen - a pen for working young or "problem" horses by experienced wranglers on the ranch. 

"Good morning, sir," Simon replied, looking over his shoulder to ensure Baler was on his best behavior, putting the decision in his head that Baler would have a much harder time earning his keep if he pissed off Kiera's father. 

Especially her mother. 

"I have a new stall cleaner for you." 

Bud arched a brow at Simon before looking at the roughed-up teenager before him - his clothes nearly tattered and stained by dirt and debris from his time homeless on the street. "A little young to be put on the payroll, huh?" 

"He won't be working for money, sir. He'll be working to earn his keep." 

"His keep?" 

"It was Kiera's decision I'm afraid." 

"Say no more. I won't get in the middle of that girl's decisions," Both Simon and Bud chuckled, Bud making eye contact with Baler. "Don't take advantage of her kindness, son. It's easy to lose her trust and twice as hard to get it back." 

"O-Okay-"

"That's not what you say," Simon warned in a low tone, slightly nudging his arm with his elbow. "It's yes, sir." 

Baler cleared his throat, "Y-Yes, sir." 

Bud flashed Simon a reassuring and hopeful smile, "What're you having him doing today?" 

"Cleaning stalls, maybe cleaning a few saddles, whichever I think might need done." 

"Will Kiera be coming down to join us?" 

"She said she will later," Simon replied. "She said she will in the afternoon when it warms up a bit." 

Bud nodded, "Alright. I reckon I get to oversee Johnny and Teeter today." 

"Best of luck to you, sir," Simon chuckled. "Where's everyone else?" 

"I have such a hard time remembering your comrade's names except for John, but they're all with him and a few other wranglers checking the fences in the upper pasture before we push the cattle up. You plan on coming with us when we do?" 

"I plan on it. This is my last week of work before my vacation time takes over." 

"Good to hear. You deserve a break." 

"Thank you. I feel like I need more time here to help out Kiera with the kids and around the house." 

Bud couldn't help but smile at Simon's response. A true man, he thought, appreciative of Simon's behavior towards his daughter, eager to see how much of a great father he would become throughout the years as well as being an important figure to Baler. Perhaps a father figure. "You'll be off just in time for our annual family get-together, too," He winked. "Say, would you like to come out turkey hunting with me sometime before then? Saw a bunch of 'em on the ridge. A big tom caught my eye, and that bastard is big enough to feed this family twice for Thanksgiving." He explained. 

Simon chuckled, "Sure. When were you thinking?" 

"Well, I was thinking about going out tomorrow morning or this weekend." 

"I'll be off after Friday. Saturday morning?" 

"Sounds good with me. Don't make Kiera mad between now and then. She won't let you go!" He poked. 

Simon couldn't help but chuckle and shrug, "Nah, she's hardly ever mad at me. I've insisted on staying home so much to help her out, she wants me to go do things for myself." 

"I'll have to agree with her on that, son," Bud shrugged. "But I'll leave you to it with our new associate." He poked. 

"Exciting, yeah?" 

"Very," Bud chuckled, walking towards the hitching post his horse was tethered to, mounting up after adjusting his chaps. "Eva is making dinner tonight. You and Kiera should come. We miss our grandkids... Even though we haven't seen 'em in a day." 

"We'll be there." 

"W-What about me?" Baler dared to ask Simon as he escorted him into the barn. 

"What do you mean?" 

"The dinner? Can I come?" 

"Do you think you should?" 

"I mean... What else am I supposed to eat tonight if you and her aren't going to be home?" 

"Do you think you earn the privilege to join her parents for dinner tonight when you took advantage of Kiera's hospitality by trying to break into her truck in the middle of the night just to scout out the same advantage in the home of her parents?" 

"N-No?" 

"We'll see," Simon huffed, already knowing that he'd be toting along another dinner guest. "The decision won't be made until after your work today." 

"What am I doing?" 

"You'll start by cleaning the stalls that don't have a horse in them. Then, you'll pick out the stalls with horses in them." Simon explained, pointing to the wheelbarrow and manure rake that hung close by. 

"Can you show me?" 

"It's not rocket science, lad," He scoffed. "You go in there, pick up the shite with the rake, then put it in the wheelbarrow. That's it." 

"What do I do when it's full?" 

"You take it out that way and dump it in the pile." 

"W-Where will you be while I'm doing this?" 

"Don't worry about where I'll be," Simon arched his brow, knowing Baler only asked the question to get by as lazily as possible. Unbeknownst to Simon, Baler had only asked Simon this as he was beginning to worry about earning Simon's respect and trust, not wanting him to see Baler fail in a job that was supposed to be simple. 

Baler had never worked before and especially never had to be put into a position where he had to earn someone's respect in exchange for a better life. 

"Just focus on getting the job done. You have twenty-four stalls to clean." 

"O-Ok-" Baler gulped, watching Simon's brow arch as if he was waiting for a better response. "Yes, sir." 

"Better." 

»»-------¤-------««

Four hours later, Kiera greeted Simon at the round pen, smiling as she watched him work with his preferred horse on the ground to keep himself busy as well as increase his bond with the horse, thanking the gelding for keeping his mind distracted every time Simon swung his leg over the gelding's back. Horses really are good for a broken soul. 

"Turning into quite the horse whisperer, I see." She smiled, adjusting the carrier that was strapped to her torso, effortlessly carrying both twins at the same time - Jacob on her back and Evie against her chest. 

Simon looked her way after he heard her voice, receding his body language to inform the horse that he could break from a trot to a walk, the gelding licking his lips as he approached his handler, Simon petting him between the eyes before he walked towards the fence to meet Kiera, smiling as he leant over to press a kiss to her lips as his free hand cupped the back of Evie's head. "Always trying to better my horsemanship, love," He chuckled against her lips. "You're definitely mum of the year for toting them all the way down here by yourself. Although I wish you would've called me so I could come up and help you. Don't need you falling." 

She giggled, "This carrier is a life-saver. It definitely takes the strain off of my back. And, it's not so bad of a walk. Helps me maintain my weight." She poked. 

"Stop with that bloody nonsense," He warned. "I don't see a thing wrong with you." 

"Mhm," She giggled. "I brought you and Baler some lunch." 

"What'd you bring?" 

"Guess you'll have to find out," She smiled. "Where's Baler?" 

"In the barn. Your father wants us at the lodge for dinner tonight." 

"I'm looking forward to it." 

"What about the kid?" 

Kiera furrowed her brows at his question, "Uh... He was going to come with us?" 

"Okay." 

"What's going through your mind?" 

He huffed, "Are you sure you want him meeting your parents after the shite he pulled last night?" 

"Well, would you rather him stay at the house when nobody is home?" She arched a brow. 

"No." 

"I was thinking about taking him into town to get a new outfit. Do you want to go with me?" 

"I'd rather go with you," He sighed, knowing that he couldn't compromise with a decision she had already made. "I don't want you to have to worry about keeping up with our two and something happen with him. Not on my watch." 

"Okay, well have him finish up whatever he's doing and meet me back at the house." 

"How about you wait here and I'll escort you back to the house?" 

"That works. Then you two can sit and eat your lunch before we go into town." 

Simon nodded, leading his horse behind him as he walked behind Kiera, entering the barn and watching Baler hastily move to the side to let Kiera and Simon through. "Hi, Miss Kiera." 

"How are you, Baler?" 

"Working." He nodded, licking his lips of nervousness as Kiera and Simon together made him more nervous than just Simon alone. Even though Simon wasn't as suffocating when he and Kiera were in the same room, but Baler sensed a presence that he didn't want to interfere with. 

And that was the presence Simon presented when he and Kiera's babies were in the room. I wish my dad was as protective over me, Baler thought, frowning at the distant memory of never feeling loved and appreciated throughout his childhood. 

Kiera nodded as she began looking at the open stall doors, nodding her head in approval at the work he had done, leaving no manure behind as it was clear he was focused on leaving as much shavings behind with no manure left in the stalls. "I, um, I also refilled the water buckets after I finished cleaning out the stalls... I left the doors open so that he could check my work." He explained. 

"You did good, lad," Simon complemented, watching Baler nod as it was clear Baler had rarely received complements throughout his life. "How many more do you have left?" 

"S-Six, sir. The six being with the horses still in there. I-I was going to do them first, but I'm nervous around horses..." 

"That's okay," Simon nodded. "You're done for right now." 

"Sir?" 

"Let's go. We have to go into town." 

Baler nodded, wiping his palms against his jeans as he followed Kiera and Simon towards the house, nervously standing at the front door as he watched Simon help Kiera with the babies, watching how a soft smile spread across Simon's face as he held his son in his arms, watching as Simon seemed to turn off the switch of being a domineering and direct man turned into a soft and supple father, seeming to handle his children as if they were made of glass as he gazed at Kiera with loving eyes, seeming to appreciate her in every moment for not only being his, but being the mother of his children. 

It was then that Baler regretted coming off to a bad start with Simon. He didn't want to be rejected by him nor did he always want to fight for his trust and approval. 

"Um, Miss Kiera? Where are we going?" 

"We're taking you into town to get some clothes. You're coming with us to dinner tonight at my parent's house." She smiled. A mother's smile. 

"I am?" 

"You worked hard today for your first day. You've earned it." 

He forced himself to hide a genuine smile, "Th-Thank you." 

"You're welcome. We're going to get you a couple of pairs of jeans, shirts, and socks. Simon will go with you to get your basic stuff." She explained. 

"I am?" Simon questioned. 

"Well, I don't know anything about underwear and deodorant for boys." She scoffed. 

"You sure know about taking mine off." Simon mumbled under his breath, earning a playful smack to his bicep. 

"You keep that up and I won't for a while." She glared playfully, watching him roll his eyes at her remark. "That's what I thought." 

He smirked at her, gently putting Jacob into the car seat he had sat on the counter, using the overhead light to his advantage to ensure he secured him properly and to keep him off the floor as Kimber was notorious for trying to get into the carrier with either Jacob or Evie. "Can you help Baler get freshened up before we leave?" 

"How is he going to freshen up if he doesn't have a change of clothes?" 

"Well, there's an extra stick of deodorant and an extra toothbrush in the closet. When we get him new clothes, I'll show him where the shower is so he can get ready for dinner tonight." 

"Alright," Simon nodded, adjusting Jacob's carrier closer to the inside of the table to reassure himself that he wasn't too close to the edge while Kiera sat Evie into her carrier, smiling down at the infant as she adjusted the socks on her small feet. Simon gestured towards Baler, leading him towards his and Kiera's bedroom before putting his hand out and telling him to wait at the door while Simon proceeded into the bathroom and to the closet, returning with a stick of deodorant and a new toothbrush. "This is yours. Freshen yourself up before we go into town." 

"O-Okay. Where do I go to brush my teeth?" 

Simon sighed as he led the kid towards the guest bathroom that was within the hallway, hating the fact that it was next to the nursery, the primal instinct of not wanting Baler too close to his children until he earned his complete trust, knowing that it was going to take a lot of work to break down the wall of trust Baler broke down in the worst way possible. "We're leaving in ten." 

"Yes, sir." 

Simon nodded, returning into the kitchen to offer his assistance to Kiera. Seeing that she had secured Evie into her car seat, he smirked as he carefully wrapped his arms around her tender abdomen, pressing a kiss to the crook of her neck. "Been waiting to do this all day." 

She hummed in amusement, leaning her head to the side subtly to invite him for more kisses to her neck, "Sounds like he respects you more already." 

"He's nowhere near having my respect yet, he's just on a stepping stone." 

"I think he's growing on you." 

Simon scoffed in disagreement. 

"You say that now, but you know he's growing on you." 

"Like a weed." He joked. 

"I mean, I think he's growing on you like Soap did..." 

[augustinapril]

Very random the Outsiders headcanons

warnings: mentions of really bad food combination, throwing up, insects, scratching & picking at skin, loud chewing, fears, please lmk if I forgot something!!

all created w/ @luvmarsbars & @stqrluvr !

˗ˏˋ ★ ´ˎ˗

To begin with we have food headcanons:

They all have a certain tastes in pizza!!

Johnny really likes olives on his pizza, like he just loves it.

Darry is a chicken bacon ranch pizza guy. it's his favorite pizza.

Dally really likes supreme pizzas but he can't stand pineapple on pizza. other than that he doesn't care.

Two bit LOVES pineapple on pizza, it's one of his favorites. (he argues w/ dally about it constantly). Him and Steve have no pickiness when it comes to pizza or food in general .

Ponyboy on the other hand is a VERY picky eater (me too man me too).

like he can't stand spicy foods, won't touch olives within an inch of his his life, has to have the edges of his sandwhiches cut off, won't eat pizza crust unless it's stuffed crust, hates cooked vegetables, the list goes on.

Ponyboy loves breadsticks!! it's one of the few foods he genuinely really loves. Same with pickles.

Steve is 100% the kid who you could pay to eat the gross food combinations that people came up with during lunch. yk, like the beans in milk? he would eat that. no hesitation.

Sodapop doesn't like soda because of the carbonation. (again that's me too I don't like drinking soda bc the fizz hurts my mouth).

Darry and Two bit are both lactose intolerant, Darry's just isn't as bad as Two's. Two bit does NOT care though because he loves eating lactose.

Also he loves BBQ sauce, Soda likes ketchup, and Pony loves ranch. like he LOVES it. he was the kid to eat it straight up.

Dallas hates sour foods, he can not stand pickles. He also hates fish, like he doesn't like sea food at all.

Dally also doesn't like mint, his favorite type of gum is watermelon.

He also is the type of person to chew with his mouth open. Like he didn't even realize he was doing it at first until people pointed it out. Then he did it to annoy them, especially Pony.

Ponyboy will get irritated and tell him to chew with his mouth shut and Dally would move his head so he was chewing directly into Pony's ear.

Johnny has random food cravings. like peanut butter on pickles, mustard on ice cream, etc. Pony has to hold back the urge to throw up.

Steve put sugar on his popcorn. he was also the type of person to have popcorn with his ice cream and m&ms and torn up pieces of candy bars & chocolate syrup, and probably maple syrup. he would throw any kind of sweet know to man into a bowl of ice cream and eat it.

Two bit really likes seafood. like he loves fish sticks.

Johnny was allergic to eggs and peaches as a kid. He isn't as much now, but he can't eat peaches anyway because he doesn't like the way they taste.

Headcanons w/ them and certain animals (dogs, cats, insects, etc.):

Darry loves dogs. He loves them and he really doesn't like cats because he thinks they're more of a hassle to take care of. Ponyboy loves cats and would rather have one than a dog. Sodapop loves both.

I saw someone else say Dally is scared of dogs and I just couldn't agree more. He really doesn't like them, and he isn't much of a cat person. He loves snakes though, like if he had the chance to have a pet snake he would 100% have one.

Ponyboy is terrified of any/all insects & bugs, including butterfly. He's allergic to bees as well.

He screams bloody murder if he sees a spider in the house and he HAS to be in a different room if there is one.

Johnny on the other hand isn't scared of them at all. He was the kid who would cry if someone squished a spider, so whenever Ponyboy is freaking out over one he will either a.) calmly pick it up and move it out of the house. or b.) be trying to capture it and tell ponyboy that it keeps moving so its hard to catch.

Then Darry would come in with a cup and paper and call them sissies.

Dally tormented Pony because of his fear of bugs. He would actually chase Pony around with a bug for his own enjoyment.

Miscellany headcanons:

Dallas finds horror movies hilarious. Like he isn't scared of them one bit and is completely unbothered. Johnny and Pony will be clinging to eachother during one and Dally is all like, "Cmon man, it's not even that scary!"

Johnny is afraid of thunderstorms and the dark. Like genuinely he is actually so scared of them.

Both Dally and Johnny bounce their legs when they're sitting, especially if they're nervous about something.

Ponyboy picks at the skin around his nails and Johnny scratches his hands a lot when he's nervous, neither of them really realize they're doing it.

Pony can't stand sherpa. like if the last remaining blanket was sherpa, he would rather sleep without a blanket.

Pony isn't the biggest fan of heights or rollercoasters and Soda doesn't like carnival rides that spin because they make him nauseous.

Dallas would rather die than use sunscreen, he absolutely hates it. Ponyboy loves sunscreen.

Two bit burns really easily. like he'll be outside for 30 minutes and he's already getting sunburnt.

Johnny doesn't go anywhere without his Jean jacket, it's his comfort item.

Steve was the kid to chew on his hoodie strings and his pencils. He couldn't have a wooden pencil without it having so many bite marks in it.

Darry cracks like every single one of his bones and it is so LOUD. He'll twist so he can stretch his back and it'll sound like if firecrackers and rice crispies had a baby.

[ftwdb]

Don't Say Go.

Chapter 15.

Summary: Soulmates find each other through what is known as The Pull. A sense within a persons body that their soulmate is within reach that guides them to find them. You find yourself following this Pull, guided by vague dreams of a man you can't quite see, until you collapse in the wild and are found by Troy, your soulmate, who has been following the same feeling toward you for days.

Once connected soulmates are able to share emotions through their bond, as well as being able to sense where the other is. But how this force works is very much a mystery still, it can vary from soulmate to soulmate, and just sometimes a connection too deep can lead twist a bond from something beautiful to, well...

Warnings: Dark themes, sexual content, violence, non-graphic description/implications of SA, child abuse and domestic violence. References to addiction. Unhealthy love/obsession/relationships. Soulmate AU. Eventual smut.

(I know the gif isn't Troy in his room but it's all I could find that would be similar to him sat on his couch - work with me k)

You wouldn't describe the rest of the day as awkward, but there was a definate tension between you and Troy which neither was willing to acknowledge.

Aside from that it had been nice to do something that felt relatively normal. Simply wandering the ranch and speaking to people - as Troy whispered his opinions on them in your ear as you walked away - had made a nice change of pace from running from the dead, escaping the living and simply retreating into your bunk to hide from the world.

It was as you finished your meal in the food tent and you spotted Jeremiah eating at the opposite end to yourself and Troy that you asked if you could see his place.

Troy stilled for a few moments before nodding once. You assumed it was only because he knew his father wasn't in the house and couldn't kick you both out again that he agreed. You had a slight spring in your step as you walked back toward the main house and even though Troy was still tense at your side you saw the half-smiles he tried to hide as you linked your arm with his.

The main living area was familiar, although it didn't look as imposing in the daylight. Jeremiah's desk looked smaller, messier. You eyed the bookshelves and the pictures on the wall, breathing in the smell of wood and dust.

"Where's you room?" You ask as Troy seems to hesitate, his shoulders stooping a little as he also glances around the place he called home. You could feel a sort of fluttering in your chest and realised he was nervous.

"I'm not going to pounce on you, don't worry." You say teasingly.

Troy scowls slightly, but its the cute scowl that tells you he's not actually mad.

"I don't know, this could all be part of a ruse to steal my virtue." Troy says mockingly as you laugh. He grabs your hand and leads you upstairs.

The house is dark but still warmly inviting with the sun streaming in through the windows. You end up on the top floor and Troy opens a door and ushers you inside.

It's a large size for a bedroom, more like a studio really. There's the usual dresser and mirror with an old shirt tossed over it. A leather couch and matching chair sit at the foot of his bed. It was all very... brown. With reds, greens and oranges thrown in. It felt like Troy.

You took a deep breath and smiled. It smelt like him too.

"Cosy."

You say as Troy stands by the door, one hand still on the handle as if he's unsure if he should close it or not. You give him a small nod, realising he is waiting for permission to shut you both in. The door closes with a soft click and the tension that was in the air before immediately changes to something... else.

You take a small step further in, toward the bed, then you realise how it might look and change direction to the couch. You take a seat, perching on the edge and look around. The room is quite neat without looking like it hasn't been lived in.

"It's nice. Much nicer than my bunk."

Troy, who has stepped into the room to lean against his dresser, shifts a little uncomfortably.

"I didn't mean anything by that..." You add quickly. "I was just saying... you have a nice home."

Troy takes a look around, his brow furrowing as if taking everything in for the first time.

"I guess..." He says slowly.

You sigh and lean back into the couch. It's worn, a little lumpy, but comfortable enough.

"I'm trying to picture you growing up here. Was this always your room?"

Troy's arms are crossed over his chest and his feet are kicking at a folded section of the rug.

"As long as I can remember." He says flatly.

Your hands press along the cool leather fabric. There was something off about him, he was giving off the energy of an animal trapped in a cage.

"Hey," You say softly and raise a hand to beckon him over to you, "come sit with me."

Troy's eyes fix on your hand before he crosses the room in just a few short strides, placing hisnpalm in yours as you slide over to give him space to join you. When he sits he mimics your posture, head leaning back on the edge of the couch to take in the slowly turning fan on his ceiling with arms relaxed at his sides.

Except for the hands which are intertwined with each other.

The tension seems to ease a little and you smile at nothing in particular.

"I had a great day today." You say quietly.

Troy smirks, "You're very easily impressed then."

"And aren't you lucky." You tease back.

Troy, usually so quick-witted, takes a second to realise your implication. His foot nudges yours as if to reprimand you. You chuckle and nudge him back, slightly harder.

"I'm not playing footsies with you. We are sophisticated adults." Troy tells you firmly as you grin.

You jab him in the ribs with your elbow and laugh.

"Speak for yourself!"

His eyes slide to you, darkening with the promise of retribution.

"Oh? That how your gonna be?"

You raise your free hand in a mock surrender.

"Wait... okay I won't-"

Your own ribs come under a sudden ambush of that most devious and dreaded attack, the tickles. You shriek, trying to lean away and escape as Troy uses your joined hands to hold you where you are.

"Surrender! I surrender god damn it!"

Troy sits back, victorious.

"Dirty move." You glare.

Troy gives you a grin that makes your stomach flip.

"There's no reward for fair fighting if you're on the losing team." Troy tells you, and its something in his voice that makes you think of Jeremiah. It sounded exactly like something the man would say to his son.

You were about to try and bring his father up when a sudden knock on Troy's door has you both frozen for a moment until Troy pulls you up by the hand, gesturing for you to be quiet and pulls you to stand beside the door where you'd be hidden once it was open.

You scowl a little at having to hide like this but if it meant avoiding Jeremiah than you could live with it for now.

Troy opens the door and you're able to see the way his shoulders relax.

"Jake." He greets.

"I was hoping to speak to you for a moment. We've got a problem with some of the dead caught up in our fences."

Troy sighs.

"Get Coop to handle it."

"Coop's on watch. Dad asked for you to deal with it. It's your responsibility - his words, not mine." Jake added quickly at the end.

Behind the door you silently roll your eyes. Jeremiah would find any reason to keep you and Troy separate as much as he could.

"Fine. Just... give me a minute."

Jake speaks up again as Troy goes to shut the door.

"I can walk her back to the bunkhouse, if you'd like."

You go very still as Troy glares at his brother. You can hear the supressed laughter in Jake's voice.

"Come on, little brother. You're too old to be sneaking girls into your room."

You smile to yourself before popping your head under Troy's arm and around the door.

"Hi Jake!" You smile, always genuinely pleased to see him.

He smiles back at you and quirks an eyebrow at Troy.

"I'd say you've got less than ten minutes until Dad gets back. Maybe go round the back way... see you out front."

You wave goodbye as Troy huffs. Troy escorts you from his room and you feel disappointed to be leaving. It was comforting there. Troy does indeed take you out through the back way and around the side of the house where Jake is waiting with his hands in his pockets, trying not to grin at you.

"I'll be back as soon as I can." Troy tells you, and you get the feeling you're being handed over to Jake like a child.

"You know I can walk back to the bunk by myself. Or even around the ranch! I don't need an escort all the time."

Troy looks a little embarrassed.

"I know. I just wanted to make sure you're okay, especially after..."

"We didn't mean to offend you," Jake adds. "But I'd enjoy the walk with you and one last check up would put my mind at rest with how you're recovering."

"Fine." You agree, knowing it was just an excuse to put Troy's mind at ease.

As Troy heads toward the source of the problem Jake keeps a steady pace at your side and begins to speak.

"So, how are you feeling now?"

"Actually quite a bit better today," you say honestly. "It's nice to be normal for a while."

Jake nods understandingly.

"That's good. I was getting worried about you being stuck in that bunkhouse for days."

You smile thinly, remembering how comfortable Troy's room was compared to your living arrangements.

"You don't need to worry. I'm feeling much stronger."

Jake pauses for a few moments and even though you don't share a connection that links your feelings you can still tell from his face he is contemplating asking you something. You smile at him.

"You know you really need to work on your poker face."

Jake looks at you, confused.

"What's up Jake?" You ask, making it clear you could read him like a book.

Again he hesitates, running his hand over his head just like Troy tends to do when thinking.

"I was just wondering how things are going... between you and Troy."

You feel your heart skip a beat and a slight heat rise in your cheeks.

"Really? Why?"

Silently you're wondering if Troy had said something to him. Brother's talk like that, didn't they?

"I just know how... intense... it can be when you find your soulmate. I thought I'd check in, see if you needed anything."

You smile a bit more warmly and shake my head.

"I think things are going fine. Although..." You remember earlier, the way Troy had seemed to shut off from you somehow.

"Actually, I do have a question. About soulmates."

Jake waits, looking at you expectantly.

"Is it possible to... hide something. You know, from the bond. Feelings?"

Jake tilts his head as if unsure of what you mean.

"Do you mean like being able to feel each other's presence?"

You shake your head.

"No I mean... I could tell something was wrong with Troy earlier. Something he didn't want to talk about. I couldn't get a sense on how he felt."

Jake continues to look confused until his face softens.

"You know, my brother is a... complicated person. It can take a while to get used to his habits. He doesn't really open up much but just give him time."

You begin to feel frustrated, Jake clearly was missing the point. He places a hand on your shoulder and gives a comforting squeeze.

"You know people think being soulmates is easy. That you'll just connect and everything will be perfect. But it's hard. A relationship still takes time and effort. You'll learn to understand each other and soon you'll be able to read Troy the same way you read me!"

Something begins to settle in your stomach as Jake speaks and you begin to realise something. You smile and laugh a little, as if what you're about to say was just a funny joke.

"I know right... wouldn't it be great if soulmates could just... feel what the other was feeling all the time!"

Jake lets out a laugh.

"Oh yeah, that'd make things a lot easier!"

Your stomach drops but you keep the smile on your face as you reach your bunk and Jake bids you a good evening. Once inside you sit on the edge of your bed and begin to shake slightly.

It was clear that Jake had never experienced a shared emotion with his soulmate. Was this just an exception between them specifically? Perhaps influenced by her sickness and closeness to death?

Or... was the exception you and Troy. Your bond.

Was their something wrong with you.

[fairly-linked]

Extra ✨ (Twilight x GN!Chubby!Reader)

I've had this on the brain all of a sudden and it's too good not to write. Strong ranch man with chubby lil' reader and a side of body image comfort? Mmm. Yes.💖

Reader is biologically fem but non binary.

Enjoy!💖

✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨

Twilight sighed as he entered the inn room. You were already inside, just having taken off your boots. He was exhausted; the last few days had not been kind to anyone in the chain, but thankfully, they'd reached a village earlier that day, and were able to stay someplace warm for the night.

He grinned tiredly, watching your figure with fondness. He loved the way you moved, the curve of your hips, your laugh, your voice-- hell, everything about you; and he wasn't afraid to show it. You were his? He still couldn't believe it, even if it had been almost a year already.

He watched you sigh and sit on the bed, leaning back into a reclined position. Then, he walked over to you, climbing eagerly into the bed beside you and resting his head on your chest, wrapping his arms around your waist and snuggling into you, sighing contentedly.

This makes you giggle.

"Comfy?"

"Hell yeah," he yawns. "You're like a pillow-- Ooh, you smell good, too," he mumbles, sniffing your hair. This causes your face to turn pink, and he notices it immediately, laughing.

"Aww, is that a blush I see? You're too darn cute, honey bunny," he laughs, resting his head back on your chest.

"Oh, shut up..." you mumble, sighing at his antics. He laughs once more.

"No way. Ain't nothin' prettier than your sweet lil' face turnin' ruby red."

"Twi..." you whine. "Knock it off already."

"Mm.... No," he says with a shit-eating grin, moving away from you. He sits up, scoots down toward the end of the bed and gently parts your knees.

Your face heats up, assuming the worst (or best? You're not sure)--

He rolls back over, lying on his back with his head on your lower stomach as he pulls your thighs onto his shoulders to cradle the back of his head. He sighs loudly, shifting to get comfy and feeling content.

"That's better," he says with a grin and giggling like an idiot. "...You blush any harder, you'll burst into flames, baby doll."

"S-Shut up!"

He laughs heartily, rolling over and squeezing your stomach, not realizing how it might affect you negatively.

"Aww, look at you! You're so--..."

He freezes the moment he sees the look on your face. He... Oh. He thought you two were having fun, but that look... He knows you're uncomfortable with something he just did.

He scrambles off of you, hastily coming to sit cross-legged on the bed next to you.

"Hey, hey... You okay? What happened?" he mumbles worriedly, his gaze holding nothing but concern for your well being. "Did I do somethin'?"

You don't speak for a moment, but he doesn't miss the way your gaze shifts from his face to where his hands were on your stomach moments ago.

...It doesn't take long for him to put two and two together.

"...Lovebug...?" he questions softly, almost coming to put a hand on your shoulder, but freezing when he thinks better of it.

...He never wanted his touch to hurt you.

"....Honey, are you... Do you..." he swallows, trying to think of the best way to word his question. But when he thinks of it, he gazes straight into your eyes when he asks the question.

"...Do you... not like this part of you?" he asks softly, his face only a few inches away from yours.

He watches as your expression turns a bit bitter as you nod slightly, and his heart breaks a little. He'd never meant to hurt you...

"Oh, honey... I'm sorry... Can I hug you...?" he questions once more, his voice remaining soft.

He's more than a little relieved when you nod, and he pulls you into a hug faster than even he knows what he's doing. He sighs, his hand cradling the back of your head as he rocks you gently.

"...Honey, I'm so sorry... I didn't realize..." he whispers, unable to hide the guilt in his tone.

He feels you shake your head, and your voice comes out in that soft, broken way it always did when you were upset.

"N-No, it's okay. You didn't know..."

...And here you were, forgiving him on the spot. You were too sweet... but it didn't make him feel any better, knowing he'd hurt you.

"....You don't have to answer this question if you don't want to, hun," he sighs, still rocking you. "But... is that something you were picked on for when you were younger?"

He feels you nod again, and he sighs once more. He loved the kids in his village dearly, like his own little siblings; but he remembers when they'd fight and it'd bring him back to his younger days, he himself having been bullied somewhat as a child. Children can sometimes be more cruel than adults, since they're not old enough to have a filter and understand the weight of their words and the damage those words could cause...

...Whoever it was that coined the phrase "Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me" was a goddamned liar.

He sighs a third time, pulling away to caress your face, which he now notices has a single tear slipping down your cheeks. His warm gaze stares straight into your own, his thumb coming up to brush away the tear.

"...You do know I think you're stunning, right?"

The way your gaze flickers around his face as you sniffle tells him you aren't entirely convinced.

"Baby... Look at me, sweetheart," he demands softly. You do as told, looking him in the eyes, and he smiles a little.

...Good pup.

"...I know you may not find yourself as stunning as I do, but..." he pauses, sighing again.

"...I wish you could see what I see. One person's trash is another one's treasure... and you are my treasure, whether you like it or not. This?" he says softly, pointing at your stomach. He doesn't want to touch it again, fearing he may upset you further.

"...That's beautiful to me. You might not understand it, but it is. If I was disgusted by anything about you, I'd have probably dated Ilia, or anyone else. But you know why I didn't?" he questions softly.

When you shake your head, he smiles.

"Because they're not you, babe. They don't have this... gentleness like you do. You're so... caring, so loving, so... comforting... I love that, and I want to give you that in return. They don't have it. And even if they did, I wouldn't want it, 'cause it ain't you."

When you don't respond, he keeps going.

"...You should know I like mine a lil' thicker by now," he says with a chuckle and squeezing your thigh. "A lil' extra never hurt nobody. You're perfect for snugglin' with at night."

This causes you to laugh a little, and his smile grows wider.

"Aww, see? There's that precious laugh," he says with a bright smile, leaning closer to you.

"Don't be so hard on yourself, sweet thing. And if you can't love yourself, I'm gonna make you," he scolds with a smile. "I'll tell you you're pretty over and over. I don't care if you get sick of hearin' it. I'll say it anyway, as many times as it takes for you to believe me. Okay?"

With your tears having stopped now, he melts a little at the way you look down, smiling a bit shyly as you nod. He chuckles again, kissing your forehead.

"There we go, that's better. Now, why don't we get somethin' to eat, bring it in here and cuddle for a bit?" he asks with a smile, leaning close to you and whispering.

"...And after that, maybe I'll make you feel just how much I think your body's a work of art."

Your face turns a bright red again and he pulls away, laughing heartily.

"You're too darn precious, my lil' lovebug," he chuckles, standing from the bed and putting his boots back on before holding his hand out for you to take.

"C'mon, sweet thing, let's get some food. I'm starvin'."

When you take his hand, he pulls you into him gently, giving you a hug and kissing the top of your head.

"I love you, (Y/n). You and all your flaws and scars. You're a beautiful person with a more beautiful personality; never forget that, baby doll."

[deanoheartspie]

Sunshine 4

Pairing: Cowboy Sheriff Dean x City Gal Reader

Summary: After your family cut you off, your great-aunt Laura invited you over to her ranch you often visited when you were just a child... You drive through the beautiful town until you accidentally graze a horse that just so happens to be the sheriffs...

Warnings: None

A/N: Let me know what you think and what your theories are!

•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•

DEAN'S POV

**BEEP** **BEEP** **BEEEEP**

Groaning I pull the extra pillow over my head as I bury my head in it. My head was pounding, the bright sun shining through the windows making it worse.

“Rise and shineee~” A voice sang out, awfully chirppy this morning. “Y/n. Go away” I grumbled gently pushing the woman who was now climbing up onto the bed shaking me awake.

She giggles. She fuckin giggles. Which if it were any other circumstance I probably would've cracked out a smile. “Y/n I swear to god-” I turn to lay on my back, and rub my eyes seeing her dressed in a nice pair of overalls with her y/h/c perfectly braided.

“Pay backs a bitch isn't it” She grins before walking off, her hips swaying side to side it was a nice view I had to admit. I shake my head getting my head out of the gutter before turning to my side seeing headache medicine and water on my nightstand.

Well thank you y/n...

I take the meds and down the water, checking my watch I already see im late on my routine which never really happens unless it's a bad night. Tossing some old jeans and a t-shirt with my boots and brown cowboy hat, I head downstairs seeing the lights on throughout the house.

“Wow son you look like shit” Clayton says from his arm chair, a news paper in hand.

“Clayton!” Laura shouted smacking the back of her husbands head. I tiredly chuckle “I feel like shit” I rub my temple, pouring some coffee into a mug.

The older man glances over and sets his newspaper down on the coffee table, “Go easy on Y/n please. She might not be good at this but it's because she's never had to do it before.” sure. I know I can be mean at times, but im not an asshole.

“Yes sir, I'll show her what she needs to know” Finshing up my coffee, I look over at her and gesture to the door walking out her following behind as I walk off to the stables.

°•°•°•°•°•°•

“Horses need to eat first, so you'll give them their grains and hay. Then some of these extra carrots.” I spoke as I pull out the bin of food and basket of carrots. Carefully watching over her, not wanting the woman to get her hand bit off.

Lilah the horse who she previously grazed, was giving the woman the biggest side eye i'd ever seen. I whistle at the tall horse, tilting my head “Be nice.” I warn when I notice Y/n stopped and watched me.

“Who would've thought big ole grumpy deano would protect me from a horse” She grins placing her hands on her hips, I roll my eyes “Well if you want your hand to get bit off, be my guest”

A messy long slow, morning goes by Y/n already covered in mud from the countless times she'd fallen and I've got to say it was much nicer to have someone to work with then do it all myself.

“You did pretty good for your first day” I compliment as we sit on one of the hay bales looking over the fields. She nods but stays quiet. I couldn't tell if it was the sun in her eye but her eyes were glossy.

I felt my heart drop, straight worry fills me as I face her seeing a tear stream down her face. Had I said something wrong? What had happened she had just been laughing not even a few minutes ago, hell she even wanted to race out to the field.

“Y/n... What's wrong?” I softly asked, gently wiping her eyes.

She shook her head and faked a smile, “Oh nothing, it's just quite beautiful out here can't help but make a woman cry” I hesitantly nod my head, still unsure but it wasn't my job to take care of her nor care too. Still I found myself worrying, not wanting to push it I leave it and get off the haybale after receiving a call.

“What? Again? I swear to god what is wrong with that man” I grumble, after hearing that Mr Andrews a 60 year old man who kept letting his unfriendly pitbull roam the town without it's owner.

I've always preferred dogs over cats, but after this pickles the dog might ruin it for me.

Sighing I hang out up, glancing at her offering my hand which thankfully you accepted, “Let's get you back...”

°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°

Four fucking hours. Four fucking hours it took to chase down Mr pickles.

Which only put me in a deeper hole then I already was in, making me rush over to Lisa's seeing her glare. Thank the lords, Aurora jumped into my arms after noticing me.

“Hey pretty girl how are you?” I ask softly pushing her light brown hair behind her ears, The small girl was quick to ramble talking about preschool, her friends, the yucky lunch she had, pretty much anything a toddler can tell you. I send her to grab her bag leaving me with the darker haired woman, who was occupying herself by cleaning the kitchen.

“Why are you late this time?” She asked not bothering to spare me a glance, while she wiped down the counters.

“Work. I had to chase Mr pickles today” I mutter out, itching the back of my head praying that Aurora would hurry.

“Sure you did. You sure it wasn't a particular woman keeping you busy?”

Who was she talking about? I sure as hell didn't come from the bar with a woman but if I did it wouldn't have been her business. So that leaves y/n.

“Y/n? The girl at the ranch?”

Lisa's silence told me everything I needed to know and I shook my head letting out a huff. She has been on my ass for the past year, about all of this. I can't hang out with who I want to hang out with because she didn't like it, it got exhausting after awhile. Especially when we weren't even together anymore.

Aurora skipped down the stairs with her unicorn backpack, and her arms full with stuffed animals. “is Ben not coming?” I ask with a head tilt as I scoop up the 4-year-old.

“No he's staying at a friends house” Nodding I let the mother and daughter say goodbye before leaving as we head our way to the ranch.

°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•

“Clay Clay!!” The little girl screached out hugging the older man.

“Ah I see what it is now” I act offended that I didn't get a greeting like that.

What I didn't notice was Y/n walking down the stairs until she came into my eye sight, she looked happier then before so it felt glad and relieved.

“Who's this little one?” She asks smiling down at Aurora.

“My daughter.”

°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°•°

----Tag list----

@deans-spinster-witch @leigh70 @mrsjenniferwinchester @ladysparkles78 @hobby27 @khaleesihavilliard @foxyjwls007 @lucidlivi @jc-winchester @globetrotter28 @beskarfilms @the141bandicoot @alysinwonderland-at-tea @randomgurl2326 @ambergoddess444 @westernwinchesters @lemmons1998 @julie040904 @nic-kolas @raisinggray @alternativeprincess

[little-yandere-ish-blog]

could you do something for yandere 2p canada? I’m so down bad for Matthieu 😭😭😭😭

Yeah totally!!! Man it's been a minute since I've gotten an ask! Also it's winter so why not a winter story?

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

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Title: welcome home baby

Reader: gen! Neutral

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Every year it was the same in your small town. The winter was coming and the crops were dying, The farmers have already stored the crops that they are going to use for the rest of the winter as well as selling them to make money. The farmers have covered up their animals so they can bear with the cold. The days were shorter in the sky seem to always have an overcast as snow was expected almost every single day, as well as temperatures below 20°F(-7°C). You were no different, you had a small ranch on the outskirts of town near the woods. You had a few cows and a large coop of chickens as well as some goats, sheep, pigs, and some small garden for your own eating. Like the rest of the farmer you had spent the entire summer stocking up as well as keeping your meat fresh from the animals You had butchered.

You always hated winter, it was always dark and damp. It always reminded you of the work that could be done but cannot be done. You were sitting inside your small farmhouse, your border collie named Maxwell at your feet. You were busy knitting another sweater. You found some things to do since during the winter you wouldn't have to worry so much about the farm work except checking on the animals and making sure they were cared for as well as their water containers weren't frozen solid. It was getting dark, the night time was always scary due to the fact that the small town you were in had no street lamps as well as the nearest neighbor being about a mile away. The woods always felt like they were watching you. You always brushed it off saying that deep down somewhere there was some pesky wolves or foxes that you just didn't feel comfortable with but you always knew you could take care of it. However unlike a coyote or a wolf or even something as much as a pesky fox seemed more manageable than this presence that always lurked in the woods. The presence itself seemed menacing but not in a way that could illy harm you however there was still the potential that this said Presidents could harm you. However though you couldn't help to linger on the presents due to the fact that you were so busy, after all worries don't keep food on the table nor your animals fed and kept safe. The sun had finally set and the windows were all dark, unlike in the summer there were no sounds outside except for an occasional owl. The summertime at least had crickets and fireflies to light up the area around even if it was just a little. Looking at all of your uncovered windows gave chills down your spine. You decided to draw the curtains on all the windows You didn't want to think about the outside It just seemed too much to think about right this second. The presence that was in the woods felt like it was staring at you, the drawn windows provided some relief to it but it just felt uneasy. Nonetheless you decided that it would be best to go to bed.

In the morning you went out to check on the animals and to make sure that they were all fed. You saw one of your neighbors by your back fenceline. His name was Matthieu, He had lived in the woods behind your house on his own land. He was sort of the lumberjack type not really having his own ranch. You smiled at him and gave him a small nod.

" Morning Matthieu, what seems to be the trouble?" You asked with a smile

" Oh nothing just wondering if you had issues with foxes, a fox came and dug under my coop and killed a dozen of my hens" he said sounding a bit annoyed, it was difficult to see his emotion or tone since he usually sounded uninterested and bored.

"No, no foxes over here but I need to ask you something, now this might sound crazy...do you ever feel like something is watching you in these woods?" You asked hesitantly.

Mathieu raised a brow and thought for a minute. You worried that you might have sounded like a crazy person. After all every single person in this town knows that there's nothing out in the woods except for some bears.

" no, not personally but if you're feeling like you're being watched then you might want to invest in some better curtains or something." He looked to one of the windows "might want some dark curtains to cover up at night. I'll keep an eye out for any strange activity." He gave a soft nod to you. You felt oddly reassured.

I mean this was your neighbor for gods sake! Neighbors can trust each other!

That night you were laying in bed. You felt like something was stalking you. You were the prey being hunted. You got up and grabbed your shotgun. You went outside in your nightgown with a loaded shotgun in hand. You walked around your property looking into the woods. You were tired of feeling afraid and you were going to do something about it. You walked into the woods, the horrible presence felt much stronger now. whatever it was. it was following you. You felt your heart begin to race as your pace quickened, you looked around desperately in the dark. A gun only does you so well when you cant see your target. In the dark something kicked your gun into the thick brush. You couldn't see only using the barely illuminated moonlight to guide you. Something grabbed you, you kicked and screamed trying to fight back the large dark figure took one good swing and knocked you out.

darkness....

darkness...

wait you hear noise

and feel warmth....a fire?

The world was swirling back. Man that was some gnarly head trauma. You opened your eyes seeing a stone fireplace. you were on a couch, the house was built like a cabin, The rug was a bear rug and there was taxidermized game busts on the wall. The House had a weird home like feel to it. You smelled black coffee brewing. Your head was throbbing. considering how you got knocked the fuck out. You heard the wooden floor creak as someone was walking in. You looked up to see Mathieu Williams! Wait Mathieu?

" Look, this isn't ideal but you'll understand soon enough" He said softly

"What the fuck man?" You said confused and rather pissed

"(name) , you need to understand-" He sounded rather calm

"No! what the fuck? Im leaving, be glad im not calling sheriff-"

He yanked you to him "I didn't fucking say you could leave." He growled.

You tried to swing, he grabbed your wrist. He tightened his grip on you. You kicked his stomach as hard as you possibly could. It just pissed him off more.

" sorry (name) but I'm not letting you go anytime soon, you're gonna have to fucking live with it baby"

"Please don't kill me" You begged

"Kill?" He sounded amused " Oh no baby I don't plan on killing you, i plan on keeping you. Like a spouse or a pet. Choice is yours baby" He chuckled darkly.

"Spouse or....pet? I want neither! I want to go home and for you to FUCK OFF!" You yelled at the end.

He was entertained by your pathetic attempts to free yourself. He grabbed rope tying you up.

"There we go. Cant have you running can we?" He said satisfied

" Fuck you! I hope you rot!" You screamed

He looked back at you raising a brow "If i rotted you'd rot right next to me. Till death do us part baby and I plan on having you be my little partner. Scream all you want. No one will hear you for miles baby." He laughed sadistically.

You felt your stomach sink. What were you gonna do?

"What about my animals?" you said thinking of them

"No worries baby they've been integrated into my farm and as for your dog, he's on the porch napping. You have nothing to worry about but i cant let you go outside baby. I need you here" He said softly

Seems like he planned this all. Escape might be harder than you thought. Good luck on running anytime soon hun..

[ccscocoapuffs]

Jack Marston Soft Smut + Body Worship

I sat on the porch of Beecher's Hope Ranch waiting for Jack to come home. He had been out doing God only knows wat for the past two days. None the less I waited on the porch with a book in hand as the wind blew through the trees. What felt like hours had passed and the sun began to set with no sign of Jack. I walked inside the house as I had just decided to make dinner anyway. Even if he didn't show I had to eat. I finished dinner and sat alone once again at the small dining table when I heard the sound of a horse galloping outside. I knew it was Jack, yet I remained seated and patiently waited for him to walk in. The front door swung open to reveal exactly who i expected. "Hi baby". He walked over to the table and kissed the top of my head. "what's wrong, you seem..." "Worried?" "Yeah, actually" "I was worried sick, Jack, I thought you were hurt...or worse" I couldn't help the crack in my voice as I spoke to him. " Hey now, don't go crying on me, darling, Come here". He pulled me into his chest and wrapped his arms around me. I clung to him as he swayed with me slightly. I felt Jack's hands start to roam my body feeling every inch. "You're so beautiful, Darling" "Oh hush, Marston" "You are the most beautiful thing I've ever seen". Jack's soft lips began kissing my neck gently as his whispers continued "Let me show you how beautiful you are to me". Jack lifted me up a carried me to our bedroom. The fireplace created a warm glow to the room enlightening the romantic aura I felt in Jack's arms. Jack laid me down on our bed and began taking off the many layers he tended to wear. "You're so perfect, Baby" "Mmmmm Jack". Jack Continued to remove both mine and his clothes, occasionally sucking on my neck as he did. He kissed his way down my body coming face to face with my dripping heat. Jack kissed my clit causing me to flitch from the sensitivity. "Does that feel good, beautiful?" "Yes....". Jacks tongue began to swirl around my sensitive bud, occasionally sucking it between his lips. "Damn, you're so beautiful" "Jaaack" "You sound so good moaning my name". Jack reached his hand up and laced his fingers with mine as his tongue continued to slide through my folds. "Are you ready for me, Princess? Can i please you some more?" "Hell yes, Jack please..." "Come here, Baby". Jack wrapped my legs around his waist and lined himself up with my entrance. He slowly slid into my dripping hole with a soft thrust causing us both to moan out. "Fuck you feel perfect, Baby". Jack reached back to hold my hand again as he started to softly thrust into me. "Holy shit......You're so fucking perfect baby, you're body is perfect" "oooh Jack please fuck!" "Does it feel good Babygirl?" "Yes!". Jack's thrust's continued as my legs began to shake from the overwhelming pleasure. "Jack...I-I-I'm so close!" "You ready, to cum beautiful? cum with me darling". Jack picked up his pace slightly as he buried his head into my neck. It wasn't long before i felt my orgasm reach its peak as I came on Jack. Jack followed almost instantly as I felt his load empty inside me. The room was filled with Jack and Mine's pants as we came down from our highs. Jack pulled out of me and laid me on top of his chest. "I'm so lucky to have you, my gorgeous princess". I chuckled at Jack's compliment as I buried my face deeper into his chest. "Just don't worry me like that anymore" "If it ends like this, I think I should worry you more often". He placed a kiss on the top of my head and pulled the covers over us both. I relaxed at the feeling of his warmth and slowly fell asleep on top of the man I loved.

[scariusaquarius]

Hi Hi Lyn!! I have an idea for John Marston!!

Imagine him coming home to you with a warm meal after his work on the farm, His favorite (if he has one. If you get what I mean LMAO)

I think he'd enjoy a nice plate of thyme venison <3

-

It was a smoldering day on the ranch and John was ready to get back inside and enjoy the rest of the day off. The chickens had been fedt, the cow had been milked, the barn had been cleaned, and the man was so sore that John swore not even his old outlaw life had worked him this hard.

However, taking a look around the ranch, John couldn't complain. After all, he couldn't have such a quiet life without a bit of strenuous work.

The sun was starting to set which meant that dinner was just about done, and at the thought of your cooking, John's stomach was an angry call for food.

He could never pass up dinner if it was your night to cook. Out of all the people he knew, you were the best cook of them all (not even Pearson could argue the fact!)

When John stepped inside, the aroma in the house was so strong that his mouth began to water. Inching his way to the dining table, the man couldn't help but to hum as he watched you fix his plate up for him.

"Lady, you're spoiling me, ain't you?"

You chuckled, glancing at him as you set his plate down for him, the man practically rushing to take off his hat and sit down to dig in.

"It's the least I can do for the most handsomest rancher in all of West Elizabeth."

John's ears began to burn, and he shook his head at you, almost shy when you leaned in just the slightest towards him.

"Now you're just pullin' my leg. What are you up to, woman?"

You chuckled, laying a sweet kiss to his lips, and John was tempted to chase after when you pulled away to dig into your food.

"I ain't up to nothin'. I can't be sweet on you?"

John huffed before taking a big bite of his thyme venison, and the man groaned.

"I did the right thing in marrying you. I think I'd have to kill anybody else that tried to give you their name."

You laughed gently, shaking your head as you tapped your foot against John's.

"Now you're talking crazy. The heat get to you or something?"

John smirked slightly, shrugging.

"I'm just being honest."

"Glad to know you only married me for my cooking, Mr. Marston."

John grinned, winking at you.

"It was a smart investment on my part, Mrs. Marston."

You guffawed, making John laugh gently as you shook your head.

"My goodness, you're hopeless. Eat your damn dinner and maybe I'll consider joining you in that bath i got going for you."

A smart investment indeed.

[ranchloved]

He was hurt. In more ways than one. He couldn't move much in his current condition and depended on Silva for pretty much everything, which he hated. In, also, more ways than one. Silva had only come to him for his son, had bedded him for his son. He hated him for it. Silva played with his heart, said Jake had never loved him, and then had even shot him. Silva was right about one thing, no one would believe Silva shot him after he had taken care of Jake. He had to blame it on the son too, which had ran away much to his dismay. Jake wakes up to the smell of dinner. He groans in pain as he shuffles on the bed and opens his eyes. Silva is walking in with a bowl and sits by his side. He glares at him as the man tries to feed him and he just looks away refusing the meal. One, he could feed himself. Two, he would not eat from what he had to offer. Silva leaves after trying a few times and leaves the bowl behind. After a while he gets hungry so, with a sigh and rather reluctantly, he takes the bowl and starts to eat. Its not nearly as good as his own but its edible. After he's done he tries to get up but, instead, hisses in pain and feels like sobbing. Not from the physical pain but the heartache. He sits on the bed with difficulty, hissing and holding his side. He wants to go to the bathroom because he knows he can't leave just yet. He depends on Silva for that. He stands up holding the blanket around his waist and starts walking around. Until he stumbles with Silva. He doesn't say a word, he just growls at him. "Where's the toilet. And don't say you'll help me because I don't want your filthy hands on me."

a parent would do anything for their child, would endure the worst, would give up the one thing they loved the most - if only to know their child was safe. silva was no exception. he loved his son with all his flaws, no matter the crime he committed. had he made mistakes? surely, but he couldn't change it now. joe was who he was & even if silva was angry & disappointed in him, but he still wanted him to be safe. even if that meant giving up the one thing he'd yearned for all his life.

jake.

for the past twenty-five years, silva had fought with himself, trying so hard not to give in to the urge. jake put a desert between them, it was clear he didn't love silva. he never did, no matter how much felt for him. for the longest time he thought jake might, but after they ..reconnected, after jake refused to even look at him now that he was satisfied & sober, silva knew. he thought the sheriff would ... that he would.. help him. that their love was undeniable & wonderful & that their night of passion would make him realize that so he'd show mercy on his son.

for him.

but he was wrong. there was no love in jake's heart. not for him, not for anybody. so .. he'd picked up the pieces of his broken heart & went to salvage the relationship with his son. send him off on his merry way to mexico. after that? he didn't know. he only had the ranch left now. but of course jake didn't give up. he'd never meant for it to go this way. hurting jake was the last thing he wanted to do, but he'd seen no other way. jake was too stubborn for his own good.

he still was, now, fighting his every move. stop it, please let me love you. he set the bowl aside, there was no force-feeding jake, he knew that. soup was left behind in the room while silva went to check on the horse jake brought, making sure it was bound in front of the house, safely. when he came back inside, he almost bumped into the other, too lost in thought until his voice rang in his ears.

"you can't be walking." soft hiss covered in concern, arms shooting out instantly to hold him, but they ..hover when he growled. his words cut deep, his brow twitching. "you'll hurt yourself and stay longer. is that what you want? i don't think so." if jake hated him as much as he said, he'd let silva help him. arms finally closed the distance, pushing his body underneath his arm & against his side, jake's arm over his shoulder to help lift his weight, his own arm around the sheriff's waist as he helped him walk to the bathroom.

jake could fight, he could growl & hate him, but he'd see this through until he was healthy enough to leave. probably forever. "hate me, but i will help you until you are better."

[creedslove]

DESERVE IT - PART TWELVE

Javier Peña x f!reader

Summary: you and Javi go on your date and that leads to other activities and some confessions too

Warnings: fluff, smut, oral sex (m!receiving and f!receiving), masturbation (m! and f!), ass eating (f!receiving) light spanking, nipple sucking, unprotected p in v, cum eating, to sum up i was horny for javi

A/N: I am so happy with how this story is going but also kinda sad it is coming to an end. I can't wait for their happy ending, besties ❤️

• PART ONE TO ELEVEN ON MY MASTERLIST

3.1k words

You ran home as if your life depended on it. You couldn't wait to get to your place, soak yourself in a warm shower and pick yourself an outfit. You were giggling like a schoolgirl and you didn't even care. After the talk with Messina, Steve and Javi himself you had never felt more sure of something, but now you did. You were going on a date with the man you loved, a man you began an unlikely friendship with and it evolved to a passion, unrequited at first, as you thought but later found out it was just as flaming as on your side. You two had gone through so much, it'd been only a year you had landed in Colombia knowing nothing than a few expressions in Spanish, and no one, but against all odds, Javi took you in. Of course, you were supposed to be just one of his many conquests, but you were honest, straightforward to him, and you admitted that if you hadn't been so hurt after your latest breakup you would definitely jump into his bed.

He took a liking on you, not only the usual liking he did when a girl was hot, but he actually liked you, and your voice, and your laughter and your brains and you got closer, until things went to shit, but that's history.

What mattered to you now, was that that whole cat and mouse catching game was finally over. Of course, there's a thrilling feeling about it, with it's ups and downs, it's tensions and certain moments, but in the end, it grows old, it gets tiring and all you wanna do is to be honest. And that was your moment with Javier. It was the beginning of something special, and the two of you could feel it. Of course, the ranch talk, the possible marriage, baby Peña, it all was some kind of inside joke, you never put much faith in it, though at the same time a part of you hoped really hard it would get to that point. But first things first, as you had told him, you couldn't plan a whole life without going on a date first.

It wasn't a big deal as you had already slept with Javier, but at the same time it was a big deal because Javi didn't take girls on dates, he fucked them and that was it, so if he was going to actually go through all those stages, it was because he had good intentions.

After your showered, you made sure to apply lotion, makeup and get your hair in a cute style, all so you could be pretty for yourself and mostly for Javi.

When Peña stepped inside the building, he was also in a hurry. He had to go back to the office and have a meeting with Steve, but all he could think of was taking you out. He would be lying if he said he wasn't excited, he didn't even remember when it was the last time he went out on a date, and that also made him nervous. What if he screwed it up somehow? Or what if you thought he was too old-fashioned… so many things haunted him as he felt the anxiety build up inside of him, but at the same time, a longing to see you, hold your hand and be seen in public with you was also growing. He didn't want to hide, he didn't want to keep you just for himself inside the doors of your apartment, but he wanted people to see his girl was beautiful, he wanted them to envy him and wonder how a guy like him could get a girl like you.

He wondered if you shared the same feelings or the same thoughts, and if you were also anxious. He also knew it was very recent and maybe even reckless to take you out literally a day after you broke up with your boyfriend, but Manu felt like a bump on the road and nothing more, it was like his participation in your life didn't even exist, besides, Javi and you had been dancing that tango for a long time, it was about time things got done.

He still stopped by a flower shop and got you a beautiful bouquet of red orchards. He didn't understand a lot about flowers, but he knew you found these pretty, and all the women in the world supposedly liked red flowers, so he figured it would be a good choice. He walked through the hallway and felt an urge to knock on your door, see what you were doing, what you were wearing - if you were wearing something at all and maybe initiate the date a little early. But at the same time, he wanted things to be classic, he wanted to follow the social rules and make you feel flattered. So he only smirked when he heard music coming from your apartment and got inside his.

Javi looked at himself in the mirror, he had tried several shirts before settling with his red one, and yet, he wasn't sure if he should go with that one. He wanted to look good, he wanted you to look at him and feel the same thing he felt when he saw you. Maybe it would match the flowers? Or maybe was it too red? He wasn't really sure, but he glanced at the clock and saw he was almost running late, so he just placed his watch back on, got his wallet, the car keys and went for your door, knocking on it hesitantly.

He looked around, hoping Steve wouldn't show up climbing up the stairs, or worse, Connie. He just wanted to get you out of the building and have a good night with you.

You opened the door on his third knock, you were just finishing getting your earrings when you finally saw Javi. He was standing there, looking like sin, with those tight jeans that hung so perfectly to his sexy body and that red shirt that made your core boil. You smiled big at him, leaning in and pecking his lips as you saw a blush spreading through his cheeks and he cleared his throat.

"Uh.. these are for you" he smiled softly and handed you the bouquet, which melted your heart. You weren't expecting it, but it was a very sweet gesture. He was just your sweet lovely Javi, there was no trace of that ruthless agent, or the guy who was a heartthrob and collected broken hearts and women around town. You loved that, because it was all for you.

•••

Javi was nervous.

And he was embarrassed about the fact he was nervous. It was crazy, he was on a date with you, the woman he loved and though you two knew that, it was still the beginning, you were trying to do things by the book, because you deserved it, but there he was, looking like a moron as he tried finding words to say.

He had drunk a whole glass of wine and still hadn't found something decent enough to talk about. Work? Los Pepes? Messina? Nah, he didn't want to bother you with it and he didn't understand why everything seemed easier when the two of you were just friends. It was like you didn't have that pressure, or maybe he was putting too much pressure on himself. He just worried you would snap out of the illusion being with him was a good idea and realize you deserved someone better, a better looking guy, someone who didn't have such wrong ways or someone who could actually make conversation during a date.

And as if you had been reading his mind, you placed your hand on top of his, giving him one of your reassuring smiles and chuckled.

"You're nervous, agent Peña…" you said sweetly and stroked his hand with your thumb "you know you don't actually have to be nervous, right? It's just me… your Y/N… your cariño" you blushed softly "and you're my Javi… and you don't have to try to impress me, let's just say you already won me over" you winked at him and watched as his shoulders relaxed and he took your hand in his big ones. His thumb ran across his bottom lip like it often did when he was thinking about something and he nodded.

"You're right, princesa… I was too worried about giving you a perfect first date, that I forgot we could just be ourselves" he admitted "I wanted you to see that I take you seriously, that I want you, for real, not just as a game…"

You thought it was adorable to see Javier like that, your heart was a melted puddle of love and affection for the man who stared at you with the biggest brown eyes you'd ever seen, seeking your approval and nervously hoping you were enjoying his company. If only he knew how much you loved him, he would know he was acting crazy.

Yes, you were excited about the date, but now that you were there, in public, holding hands and sharing a meal, you saw you were so much more than those vanilla couples who needed to go out once a week to remind themselves they were in a relationship. You were in front of Javier Peña.

You were in love with Javier Peña, and as far as you were concerned, Javier Peña was also in love with you, and there was absolutely nothing more you could ask from the heavens. So you simply moved to the chair next to his and hugged his arm, resting your head on his shoulder, loving how close he was and how close he would be, without you fearing him move away from you or push you away. He immediately softened up and lowered his lips, kissing the top of your head

"I'm just happy you decided to stay here, I know New York was a big deal but I promise I won't disappoint you and I will make your stay worthy" he said sweetly and your eyes met his, leaning in and kissing his lips.

Javier had the best lips you'd ever seen in a man, the way they just clicked perfectly with yours, being so soft and so smart, knowing exactly what they were doing, was something you would probably never get used to, and you loved every single aspect of it.

When you broke the kiss, your hand stroked his cheek gently, as your nose bumped against his softly, making the two of you giggle "I love our date, Javi… but I also know we are not an ordinary couple, we don't have to do what other couples do and it's fine by me…" you said as your hand went for his crotch, gently stroking it over his jeans as his eyes widened in surprise "we can just finish our night somewhere else, if you'd like, mi amor" you winked at him and leaned in, kissing his neck, lips just ghosting over his skin before you nibbled it gently.

Javi's tight grip wrapped around your fist, stopping your snoopy hand right there. He knew you could be one feisty little thing, but he didn't take you for that kind of tease… and he was loving it.

"¿Qué estás haciendo, mi amor?" He whispered against your ear as it was his turn to lean in and spread kisses all over your neck. You groaned and giggled, biting your lips before stealing a peck from him.

"I think we should go somewhere more private, Javi… like your car" you whispered to him and saw how his eyes darkened with lust and eagerness at your suggestion.

It only took him a few minutes to pay the check and you were soon inside his Jeep. You watched him drive, looking for a dark enough place to park, his handsome side profile already making you so hot and bothered because you could never wrap your head around the fact he was incredibly handsome.

You weren't sure you would be able to hold yourself back and ignoring completely any safety guidelines you began kissing his neck.

"Shit, baby?!" Javi groaned as he stopped the car abruptly, not being able to focus on driving and you touching him.

You giggled and slid your hand under his unbuttoned shirt. You felt his hot skin against the palm of your hand and knew you needed more. Your free hand went back to his crotch, his rough jeans were in the way and you were getting so impatient, you began unbuckling his belt.

Javi still hadn't found a decent parking spot, but he was so eager to feel you, he took his hand to your hair, stroking it softly as he couldn't get his eyes away from the road, but he also couldn't get away from your touch. You smirked and bit his neck harder, earning a ounce of pain from him and his arm running down your back, getting to your ass and giving it one smack

"Fucking slut" he said through gritted teeth and watched as you opened his jeans, his boner was so apparent your mouth watered.

"Javi, I wanna be your little puta, I need you…" you begged him, freeing his cock from his underwear and watched as he bucked his hips.

Javier groaned and cursed under his breath, you saw his tip glistening with pre cum, using your thumb to spread it all over.

Javi knew he wasn't going to be able to drive, so he just parked under a broken street lamp and gripped your hair.

"Wanna be my puta? Go ahead princesa, show me you can do it, muñequita…" he said with a tight grip on your hair, he was impatient and he didn't want teasing. You also didn't want to wait any longer, so you took your mouth to his long, thick cock, giving his tip small, little licks before taking his length down your throat as deep as you could.

His hand lifted up the hem of your dress, exposing your ass and caressing all over. He pulled your thin panties to the side and found the curve of your lips, running a finger up and down your slit, gathering your juices that pooled in your entrance. Javi threw his head back, your hand massaged his balls as your tight throat made him feel so good. His thick fingers got into your hot entrance and he pumped them in and out. He felt you squirm and the car was filled by nothing but obscene and erotic noises.

He wasn't going to hold back and let you know his hot load was coming, pleasure and bliss all over him as you willingly took all of it into your mouth and swallowed it.

He panted as you raised your head, you looked like a hot little mess for him and he could only pull you for another kiss, not caring if he could taste himself in you.

"Go to the backseat, querida" he whispered against your ear and waited until you got in position.

Javi followed you immediately, helping you get on your knees and hands and held your hips in place "now you're gonna be my puta, got it?" He whispered and smacked your ass a few more times, seeing the reddish shade spread but didn't give you enough time as he spread your cheeks and stuck his tongue into your cunt.

You whimpered at his ministrations, his tongue explored your pussy, going as deep as he could, finding your clit and suckling on it, feeling how your knees faltered but sustained your weight with his hand. His tongue moved up to your ass, touching your muscly ring and feeling it clench so sensitively at the unexpected stimulation.

"Javi" you could only whimper, but he shushed you, wetting your asshole and letting you relax, enjoying the new experience.

His hand found your clit, rubbing it up and down, feeling how hard it was and knew you were close. He shoved his fingers into you again, fingering you as fast as he could, thumbs taunting your clit and tongue into your sweet hole until you were nothing but a puddle of pleasure, shaking and cumming for him.

"My bed tonight" Javi said as he opened the door to his apartment and immediately pulled you against his body, kissing you hungrily as if he hadn't just fucked you in his car less than an hour before. He just felt such hunger for you, the way you put your dress back on in a sloppy way, not caring if your panties got lost in the backseat of his car, or how you couldn't stop touching him. How your hands wrapped around his cock in your beautiful bloody red nails and how you swallowed every drop of him. He just couldn't get enough of you, your post orgasm messy hair, your beautiful smile and your intoxicating perfume.

He loved every part of you. And he wasn't scared of admitting anymore.

"I don't think I'll make it to bed, Javi" you bit your lips, and went for another kiss, his arms wrapping around your body as he lifted you up and took you to the couch. He didn't want to wait anymore, as much as he loved to be in your mouth and have your taste on his tongue, he needed to be inside of you. He wanted to feel your walls squeezing and milking him dry, he wanted to cum inside of you. He didn't even know if you were on birth control, but he didn't actually care, he just wanted you.

Javier got on the couch, pulling you to him and touching your body, getting lost on you. He finally stripped you out of your dress completely, revealing your beautiful breasts, perky nipples that went straight to his mouth, licking and suckling on them, at the same time he helped you lower down onto his cock, loving how your soaked cunt took every inch of him.

He held you by the neck, having a firm grip on it as he watched you ride him, as if you were the most gorgeous piece of art in the world.

Javi threw his head back, hips bucking as you moved up and down onto his cock. He praised you, cursed under his breath, he wanted you whole for him, at that moment and forever.

He felt his balls quivering and the knot on his lower belly tightened as much as yours did too and you knew you were cumming for him again at the same time he came for you, his thick hot load spilling inside.

"Te quiero, Y/N" he whispered against your lips, kissing you once more, never getting enough of you. "I love you cariño" he whispered.

You smiled and tiredly rested your body against his, feeling a wave of happiness and pleasure ran through your body

"I love you too, Javi"

_____

A/N: besties, I know this isn't my best chapter, i just have the feeling I could have written it a lot better but at the same time it was the best I could actually write today, idk i had a weird, tiring, stressful day and to top that my head is killing me. I am just horny for Javi and I hope you guys liked this part at least a tiny little bit of it, because our series is almost over now 😭😭😭

[mariabtsos]

One That I Want ||m.yg|| Chapter 4: Hopelessly Devoted

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Description: It is summer of 1956, and leader of the T-Birds Yoongi is working at a food joint at the beach to make extra money over the summer, when he meets a pretty girl. They start a summer fling that unfortunately had to come to end, but an unexpected turn of events will bring them back together.

Genre: 1950s au, angst, fluff, some smut, Greaser!Yoongi x Square/Goody-Two-Shoes!OC.

TW: underage drinking and smoking, sexual content, violence, misogyny (it’s the 1950s so peak macho man era).

Word Count: 1k+

"Wait, so, meanwhile back at the ranch," Kim brought Lottie back from her daydreaming. "You brought your cookies all the way to the beach and he didn't lay a hand on you?!" She was shocked.

"He was a gentleman!" Lottie defended the way Yoongi had treated her to such a high standard, she wasn't going to let him be called a creep.

"He sounds like a creep, a drag!" Kim went back to eating her food.

"He sure sounds better than the deadbeats from around here," Miyeon looks back with disgust at the table full of boys behind her.

"Hey four-eyes!" A random guy yelled in their direction, clearly targeting Miyeon's new glasses.

"Stuff it, dirt bag!" She yelled back, quickly regaining her composure.

Nayeon rolled her eyes and linked her arm with Lottie's, "I think it's romantic! Did it really have to end?" She asked with a pout, Lottie's summer fling sounded like something out of a radio novella, a true knight in shining armor.

Lottie sighed, the memories were so sweet, her summer felt like the most wonderful dream; she thought about what could've been if they had continued the relationship, especially if she had actually gone back to the U.S. Continuing their little fling may have been good at first, but then she thought of the ending, being that far away, letters can get lost, or he could find someone else. That thought alone had her feeling down in the dumps, she wanted to only have good memories attached to what she thought was the best summer of her short life.

"It just wouldn't have worked out, so many things could happen and I'd rather just leave with the happy memories, you know?" Lottie explained briefly, Nayeon nodded, the other girls looked at her with a bit of sadness, they could all tell how much this guy meant to her.

Meanwhile, Yoongi's friends were asking him all kinds of questions about his summer. Yoongi couldn't bring himself to tell them the truth, that he was head over heels for the chick he met at the beach. So, he exaggerated, he made it seem like they had done a lot more than what had actually happened, telling them they had gone all the way in all kinds of places, when the reality is, Yoongi had all but gone soft for this girl. Lying was not something he wanted to do, but he had a reputation to protect.

"So, does she have a friend you can introduce me to hyung?" Hobi asked him, taking him out of his thoughts, the cat eyed boy rolled his eyes and chuckled humorlessly.

"If you used half of your brain as much as your dick Lee would leave you alone, you know?" He admitted, making Hobi punch him in the arm.

"So, you just told her that you'd still be friends? Have you even written to her since she left?" Jin asked him, giggling whilst leaning his head on his fist.

"No, I haven't hyung, you know how it is! I'm not going to get stuck on one broad," Yoongi dismissed the older, getting up to go to the edge of the bleachers to light up a cigarette.

"I don't know, you talked about her for a good while, and I've never heard of the Min Yoongi necking it with just one chick," Jin explained.

"I mean, I guess I do wonder how she's doing, what she's doing right now," he admitted, his voice was very soft, if Jin hadn't been directly talking to him he wouldn't have heard it.

The oldest let it go after that, the group engaged in a different conversation and they teased each other like they usually did, but what Jin said left Yoongi thinking, his heartbeat spiked just thinking back to the summer, and in a way, he couldn't wait for next one, hopefully she'd be there, that's what they had discussed anyway.

After lunch, the girls were walking to their next class. Still discussing Lottie's escapades and her mystery beach boy.

"So, what's this guy's name anyway? You talk a great deal about him so you must know his name!" Jiyoon asked her as they walked.

"Yoongi, his name is Min Yoongi," saying his name made her get the zorros all over again.

The girls on the other hand gasped, Miyeon and Jiyoon immediately giggling, only to be shushed by Kim.

"Well, I think that's a wonderful name!" She said in a sweet tone, but Lottie didn't pick up on the slight sarcasm in her voice. "And did you ever get around to asking this, Min Yoongi where he went to school?" She asked.

"He goes to some fancy boarding school, he's an honor's student!" Lottie answered with a smile, proud of him even from far away.

"Well, ring-a-ding-ding! I think he sounds peachy keen, and who knows!" The leader walked to her, pulling her sunglasses up to rest on her head, "if you believe in one of those fairy tales, Prince Charming may show up again soon, maybe even somewhere where you least expect it!" Kim assured her with a tight smile, "let's go girls," she pulled her shades back down to cover her eyes, Miyeon and Jiyoon followed their leader, and Nayeon stayed behind with Lottie.

"Do you really think that's true, Nayeonie?" She asked her friend with hope in her eyes.

Nayeon knowing what she knew hated that look, Yoongi had the reputation of being a player, on top being the leader of the T-Birds, and the last thing she wanted was for Lottie to be heart broken. "Sure," she giggled nervously, "we should head to class Lottie, come on," she linked their arms together as they walked to their next class.

Kim's words had been such an encouragement to Lottie. She spent the next few hours of class daydreaming about her guy, the dreamboat that had swooped her off her feet. She thought of how wonderful it would be if they reunited once more, how wonderful it would be to be in his arms again, to have him serenade her, and to talk about all the books he had to read. Gosh, if it wasn't because she had to pay attention she would be doing anything but writing notes.

How she would love to just see him, even if just for a moment.