#maya’s music moments ⊹ ⋆｡˚

[voidsuites]

this song has been simultaneously healing and destroying me recently ugh i’m gonna explode into a thousand pieces. like tell me why they reached into my chest and yanked out everything i’ve unknowingly been feeling for a while and then made this song and now i’m supposed to just be normal about it… UGH

[s-guacamolearts]

EVERYONE

WOMEN AND WEIRDGIRL ASSISTANTS

THAT'S IT. THAT'S THE WHOLE POST

[bruce-morrow]

Venmo Maya & Max Music, Central Park, NYC, 2024

Photo: Bruce Morrow

[lesbicosmos]

MAYA POSTED THESE AND DELETED THE REST OF HER POSTS??? WHAT IS HAPPENING

[astroauddy]

Thérèse makes me feel something l I’m e both the song and the painting(s)

Like How at first view it’s just a carefree looking, casual young girl and that’s what I thought instantly, but when I looked into it the painter was sexualizing her in a way and I find it sickening because it really just looks like a relaxed kid but it was painted with the intent to be this terrible ugly, male gazey fantasy.

And the fact that any kid looking at it won’t pick up on anything because they’re kids, and it’s like how as you grow up you start being sexualized when you yourself don’t even understand that. Like you start getting boobs or something and all of a sudden you half to change how you dress but you don’t even understand that because you’re a kid. Your body becomes sexual when you yourself dint even know what sex is.

[caramelapplesauce]

the exit by conan gray and right where you left me by taylor swift give the same energy

[killjoy-prince]

them announcing games 4-6 as an a/po/llo j/us/tice trilogy is so funny like i get why they marketed it like that but only 1 1/2 games are about him and the one where 1/2 the games about him only focuses on him in the second and last case

[nhlclover]

𝐈 𝐃𝐎𝐍'𝐓 𝐃𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐄 | 𝐐𝐔𝐈𝐍𝐍 𝐇𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐄𝐒

summary: despite your differing personalities, you and quinn find yourselves drawn to each other. but you know what they say? opposites attract.

warnings: none :)

word count: 0.78k

Quinn leaned back on the club's sleek bar, the polished surface cool against his skin as he observed the chaotic dancefloor. The thumping bass reverberated through the room, syncing with the erratic flickering of the strobe lights.

Amidst the mass of dancers, his eyes were on one figure in particular. You stood out among the pulsating crowd, commanding attention effortlessly. Adorned in a shimmering mini-dress that caught the lights with every sway of your hips, you exuded a magnetic aura. Quinn’s eyes followed your graceful movements as you twirled around with one of your friends, laughter ringing out above the music. In the midst of the chaotic dance floor was where you seemed most in your element.

It wasn’t uncommon for your relationship to raise eyebrows. You had always been a glass-half-full kind of person and always carried an effervescent demeanor. Your positivity was a beacon, drawing people towards you like moths to a flame. Meanwhile, Quinn was on the quieter side, not necessarily grumpy but far from the ray of sunshine that you were. Compared to you, Quinn was the calm after the storm, a steadying force that balanced your whirlwind of energy.

As Quinn continued to watch your effortless moves, he marveled at the way you situated yourself in the mass of people, your smile never wavering and your movements staying fluid and confident. Moments like these reminded Quinn of how he was drawn to you in the first place. You brought a lightness to his life, a spark that he hadn't realized he was missing until you came along.

His brief daydream was interrupted by Maya, one of your friends, sidling up beside him. “Hey, Quinn,” she said, knocking the neck of her beer against his glass.

Quinn offered her a small smile. “Hey, Maya. Having a good time?”

She took a sip of her beer and leaned on the bar beside him, her eyes following his gaze to you. “Always,” she replied with a grin. “You know, I’ve never seen her this happy with anyone before. How are you two doing?”

Quinn's smile widened as he glanced back at Maya. "We're good," he said, his voice carrying a hint of pride. "She's amazing, you know that.”

Maya looked between the two of you, a small smile on her lips. “You guys are total opposites though, aren’t you?” she asked.

Quinn chuckled softly, glancing back at you as you continued to dance with abandon. “Yeah, you could say that. But somehow, it works.”

Maya nodded knowingly. “She brings you out of your shell.”

“Exactly,” Quinn replied with a nod. “Even when she doesn’t realize it.”

As if on cue, you bounded over, a radiant grin lighting up your face. “Quinn! Come dance with me!”

Quinn chuckled, feeling a warmth spread through him at your presence. “I don’t know how to dance, y/n.”

Your eyes sparkled, shrugging your shoulders as you took hold of Quinn’s hand. “Well, it’s never too late to learn!”

Reluctantly, Quinn allowed himself to be pulled onto the dance floor. The music seemed louder there, the bass thrumming in his chest. You started moving immediately, your body swaying in time with the beat. Quinn tried to mimic your movements, feeling awkward and out of place.

You took notice and giggled. “Quinn, it wouldn’t kill you to move your body a little.”

You placed your hands on his hips, forcing them to move to the music, but his body seemed to fight you.

“It actually might,” Quinn replied, his eyes glancing around to see if people were watching.

You laughed again, wrapping your arms around his neck. “Just follow my lead.”

Quinn took a deep breath and tried to relax. He honestly didn’t know how you were just naturally full of energy and positivity. However, your energy was infectious, and soon he found himself moving more naturally, though still far from graceful. You teased him about his lack of rhythm, but your laughter was warm and encouraging.

“Baby, you’re doing great!” you said, your smile radiant. “See, I knew you could dance.”

Quinn felt his hesitation fall away as you continued to dance, your movements becoming synchronized as you lost yourselves in the music. Your friends cheered from the sidelines, Maya giving Quinn a thumbs up when she caught his eye.

A couple of songs later, you and Quinn headed off the dancefloor. You made your way to the table your friends had commandeered, Quinn pulling you into a tight embrace.

“You were right,” he murmured into your ear. “That was fun.”

“Told you so,” you replied, grinning up at him, eyes sparkling with the same energy that had captivated Quinn from the beginning.

[xtra7s]

Hi hi omg i love your writing it’s amazing! Can i request a Reneè fic where reader is in a famous band and admits in an interview how much she loves and admires Reneè (yk that clip where Reneè is like “Date me” for Rachel Mcadams) and Reneè responds and they get close and collaborate or whatever you want!

𝐄𝐜𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐬𝐞𝐝

Pairing: Renee Rapp x Reader

Synopsis: Y/N, the bassist for Eclipsed, gives Renee some props during an interview and ends up hanging out with her.

Content: mainly fluff

Word Count: 2k

a/n: okay so this one was a bit confusing to write mainly because I felt like nothing was really going on, I didnt know if you wanted smut or something else so I apologize if it isnt what u wanted :(

masterlist

The excitement buzzed in the air as Y/N YL/N, the talented bassist of the rising rock band "Eclipsed," prepared for a much-anticipated interview. The band had been making waves in the music scene, and the media was eager to learn more about the individuals behind the electrifying sound. Y/N, known for their skillful bass playing and enigmatic stage presence, was ready to share their journey.

The interview took place in a trendy studio, with the band seated on a chic, modern couch. Y/N's fingers idly traced the frets on their bass, a well-worn instrument that had seen countless gigs and late-night jam sessions. The interviewer, a music journalist with an infectious passion for the industry, dove straight into the questions.

"So, Y/N, let's start with your musical journey. How did you find your way to the bass guitar?" the interviewer inquired, leaning forward.

Y/N grinned, the memory of their musical awakening evident in their eyes. "I actually started with the guitar, but one day, I heard this deep, resonant bass line that just spoke to me. It was like the heartbeat of the song, and from that moment, I was hooked. I switched to the bass, and it felt like coming home."

The rest of the band nodded in agreement, acknowledging the pivotal role Y/N played in shaping the band's distinctive sound. The lead singer, Maya, chimed in, "Y/N brings a unique energy to our music. The bass lines add a whole new layer, creating this dynamic and powerful sonic landscape."

As the conversation flowed, the interviewer shifted gears, asking about the band's creative process. Drummer Alex spoke about the collaborative nature of their songwriting, while the guitarist, Jake, discussed the influences that shaped their sound. Y/N interjected with tales of late-night jam sessions and the organic evolution of their music.

"We all bring something different to the table," Y/N explained. "It's like a musical potluck. Each of us has our own tastes and influences, and when we come together, it creates this fusion of sound that defines Eclipsed."

The conversation turned to the band's recent successes, including a sold-out show and a growing fan base. Y/N's eyes sparkled with gratitude as they reflected on the journey.

"It's been incredible," Y/N shared. "Our fans are amazing. They connect with the raw emotion in our music, and that's the most rewarding part. Music is a language that transcends words, and seeing people resonate with what we create is truly humbling."

As the interview with Eclipsed continued, the interviewer shifted gears, a mischievous glint in their eyes.

"Now, Y/N, the music world is full of incredible artists, and one rising star who seems to have captured a lot of attention is Renee Rapp. Have you had the chance to meet her, and what are your thoughts on her music?" the interviewer inquired, a sly smile playing on their lips.

Y/N's expression lit up at the mention of Renee Rapp. "Oh, Renee is fantastic! I haven't had the pleasure of meeting her in person yet, but I'm a big fan of her work. Her music has this raw authenticity that really resonates with me. It's always refreshing to see artists who pour their heart and soul into their craft."

The rest of the band nodded in agreement, expressing their admiration for Renee Rapp's talent. Maya, the lead singer, chimed in, "I love how she fearlessly embraces her uniqueness. It's inspiring to see artists who aren't afraid to be true to themselves, both in their music and their persona."

The interviewer pressed a bit further, asking if there were any specific songs or aspects of Renee Rapp's music that Y/N found particularly inspiring. Y/N thought for a moment before responding, "I really connect with the way she uses her voice to convey emotion. It's powerful and evocative. As musicians, we're always drawn to those artists who can create a genuine connection with their audience, and Renee does that exceptionally well."

The conversation then meandered into a discussion about musical influences, with each band member sharing their favorite artists and the impact those musicians had on their own sound. It was clear that Eclipsed Echoes drew inspiration from a diverse range of genres and artists, contributing to the richness of their music.

"And, Y/N, given that you've expressed admiration for Renee Rapp's talent, do you have any comments for her?" the interviewer asked, a faint hint of curiosity in their tone.

Y/N, ever composed, smiled with her teeth. "I do,-" She paused, looking at the camera directly. "Keep your head up, bitch. you're effortlessly you and that shit is wicked. You gotta remember the comments of your loved ones are the only ones that matter."

The rest of the band nodded in agreement, sensing the delicate nature of the question. Maya, the lead singer, added, "Absolutely. It's crucial to separate someone's art from their personal lives. We're all here because of our love for music, and that's what we should celebrate."

The interviewer, quickly shifted gears steering the conversation back toward the band's music and upcoming projects. Y/N, always poised and focused on the music, gracefully navigated through the interview, steering it away from personal matters and back into the realm of creativity and passion.

As the interview concluded, it was evident that the members of Eclipsed were not only talented musicians but also individuals who valued respect and professionalism in their interactions. The episode served as a reminder that, while curiosity about an artist's personal life may arise, the primary focus should always remain on the artistry and creativity that unite the diverse and dynamic world of music.

A few days after the interview, Y/N found a pleasant surprise in their Instagram inbox. It was a message from none other than Renee Rapp herself. Excitement bubbled within Y/N as they read the message.

"Hey Y/N! 🌟 I caught your interview, and it was awesome hearing your thoughts on my music. Your band's sound is killer! Would love to chat more and maybe hang out sometime. What do you say?"

Y/N quickly replied, expressing their gratitude and enthusiasm for the unexpected message. The conversation flowed effortlessly as they exchanged thoughts about music, shared favorite artists, and found common ground in their passion for creating authentic, powerful art.

Renee suggested meeting up for a casual hangout, perhaps grabbing coffee or exploring a local record store. Y/N eagerly agreed, and plans were set in motion for a meeting between two talented musicians who had connected through their shared love for the art form.

As the day of the meetup arrived, Y/N couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nerves. They met Renee at a cozy cafe, and from the moment they greeted each other, it was clear that the connection extended beyond the digital realm. The conversation flowed effortlessly, filled with laughter, shared stories of musical journeys, and a mutual appreciation for the creative process.

Y/N and Renee's casual hangout unfolded into an afternoon of shared laughter, animated discussions about music, and an undeniable chemistry that lingered in the air. The cozy cafe provided the perfect backdrop for their burgeoning connection, with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee enhancing the warmth of the atmosphere.

As they chatted about their favorite bands and musical influences, Y/N couldn't help but be captivated by Renee's infectious enthusiasm. The conversation flowed seamlessly between topics, from the intricacies of songwriting to the exhilarating rush of performing on stage. Each shared anecdote deepened the connection, forging a bond between two artists who understood the unique challenges and joys of their chosen path.

The flirtatious banter began subtly, with playful glances and gentle teasing. Renee's laughter resonated like a melody, and Y/N found themselves drawn to her magnetic energy. As they strolled through a nearby record store, fingers lightly brushing against vinyl covers and sharing recommendations, the air seemed charged with an unspoken tension.

At a moment of quiet contemplation in the record store, Renee's gaze met Y/N's, and a playful smirk played on her lips. "You know," she said with a twinkle in her eye, "your interview made me curious. You mentioned appreciating someone's art without focusing on appearance. Do you always manage to separate the two?"

Y/N felt a flush of warmth creeping up their cheeks, realizing the subtle shift in the conversation. With a coy smile, they responded, "Well, I believe in appreciating the beauty in everything, whether it's in the artistry of music or… other things."

The air between them crackled with a newfound tension, and as they continued to explore the record store, the playful exchanges deepened into a more overt flirtation. A gentle touch on the arm here, a lingering gaze there—each gesture spoke volumes, creating an atmosphere charged with unspoken desire.

As they wrapped up their hangout, Y/N and Renee exchanged contact information, promising to meet again soon. The connection they forged went beyond the shared love for music, evolving into a magnetic attraction that lingered in the air, leaving both of them eager to explore the potential of this unexpected and thrilling connection.

In the days that followed their initial hangout, Y/N and Renee's connection deepened through playful messages and shared playlists. Their conversations became increasingly laced with flirtatious undertones, a dance of words that hinted at a mutual attraction.

One evening, Y/N received a message from Renee suggesting a joint songwriting session. The prospect of collaborating ignited a spark of excitement in Y/N, and they eagerly agreed. As they settled into the cozy ambiance of Y/N's home studio, surrounded by musical instruments and the gentle hum of creativity, the air seemed charged with both anticipation and a growing sense of intimacy.

As they worked on a new song, Y/N couldn't help but notice the subtle shifts in Renee's body language—the way she would lean in slightly, the lingering touches on shared instruments, and the occasional laughter that held a hint of something more. The energy between them was palpable, a magnetic force drawing them closer with each passing moment.

Renee, with a mischievous glint in her eyes, suggested taking a break and grabbing a snack from the kitchen.

As Y/N and Renee took a break in the cozy kitchen, the atmosphere crackled with a potent blend of creative energy and unspoken desire. The shared laughter and flirtatious banter lingered in the air, creating a magnetic pull that neither could ignore. Renee, feeling the palpable tension, decided to take a bold step.

As they stood near the kitchen island, discussing the finer details of their latest composition, Renee's gaze lingered on Y/N's lips. With a mischievous glint in her eyes, she leaned in, closing the distance between them and placing her hands on Y/N's waist. Time seemed to slow as Y/N felt the soft warmth of Renee's lips pressing against their own, and their back hitting the counter.

The kiss was electric, a spontaneous spark that ignited a fire between them. Y/N, momentarily stunned, soon reciprocated, their hands instinctively finding each other in a gentle embrace. The kitchen became a canvas for this unexpected moment, a dance of passion and shared connection against the backdrop of a creative haven.

Breaking the kiss, Renee grinned, her eyes filled with a mixture of playfulness and genuine affection. "Well, that was unexpected," she teased, her fingers gently tracing patterns on Y/N's arm.

Y/N, catching their breath, couldn't help but smile in response. "Glad you did it, Renee."

The shared laughter that followed sealed the moment, turning the kitchen into a haven where the boundaries between music and personal connection blurred. As they chatted over a plate of shared snacks, their knees brushed against each other under the table, creating a subtle yet electrifying connection. As they returned to their songwriting session, the newfound intimacy lingered, infusing their creative collaboration with an electrifying energy that promised more harmonies to come. The kitchen island, witness to the impromptu kiss, became a symbol of the uncharted territory their connection was now exploring.

[narcjsistx]

＃ 𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓 ₊˚ ෆ

name: maya, but i accept any other nickname as long they're not mean <3

age/level: 18, but mentally I'm still in my fairy world full of unicorns and cats that vomit rainbows and eat candy

current fixation: absolutely blue lock! thanks to my best friend for introducing me to this

what i write on tumblr?: I almost always write sfw stuff, maybe in the future I'll do something nsfw themed if I want. at the moment I only write for blue lock, but I have two masterlists dedicated to tokyo revengers and wind breaker, where you can find something I've done in the past!

about me: i've loved anime since i was 8 years old, but tokyo revengers is still my favorite. i play several instruments, but i'm mainly a bassist. i speak spanish, italian and a little french, and i can't live without eyeliner, sorry i can't. my favorite show is shameless, my favorite adaptation of a book is the hunger games saga (I love the books, proud lover of everlark), my favorite movie is lalaland (favorite horror film) and my favorite musical is heathers. i use she/her!

nationality: oh I don't know, who knows... just know that english is not my first language, so if you find any mistakes please don't get too angry, they are made unintentionally

DNI if... : you are a pedophile, homophobic, transphobic, whatever makes you a shitty person. I ask you to stay away from my blog, thanks for the collaboration!

YOU CAN INTERACT if... : basically if you are not the one written in the list above. feel free to write to me in my directs, I like to make friends and I warn you that I really talk a lot!

favorite characters of...

TOKYO REVENGERS: manjiro sano, kokonoi hajime, chifuyu matsuno, yuzuha shiba, mitsuya takashi, emma sano, hinata tachibana, izana kurokawa + basically all

WIND BREAKERS: suo hayato, tsubakino tasuku, jo togame, yamato endo, umemiya hajime, sakura haruka

BLUE LOCK: mikage reo, shidou ryusei, bachira meguru, itoshi sae, itoshi rin, alexis ness, charles chevalier, micheal kaiser, aiku oliver, isagi yoichi + basically all

my masterlists!

— 𝐓𝐎𝐊𝐘𝐎 𝐑𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐆𝐄𝐑𝐒 𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓

— 𝐖𝐈𝐍𝐃 𝐁𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐄𝐑 𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓

— 𝐁𝐋𝐔𝐄 𝐋𝐎𝐂𝐊 𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓

thanks for reading! i hope to see you in some of my posts <3

[voidsuites]

feeling this so hard rn. boooooo (it’s currently 5:43pm)

[quietzap]

how do you navigate your feelings towards ziam and cheryl/bear/kate/maya on top of this immense grief? i don't mean to be insensitive but i haven't found an answer for myself yet, i can't believe we'll never get answers now

(To anyone seeing this, read until the end before saying anything thank you.) Well. I'm gonna ramble a bit but bear with me. Spotify played Let Me and Common on shuffle the other day and I cried a bit. It's unfair. It should've never ended this way. But I had already accepted ages ago that we might never know the truth. I still have my beliefs. That Zayn and Liam were together. Maybe they had broken up who knows but if they did then I still truly believe their bond was a once-in-a-lifetime thing. I've gone through so many emotions this past week. But seeing the posts of cheryl etcetc or people mentioning bear (Zayn was the only one who didn't fwiw), it didn't make me feel anything. Maybe bc I had already accepted we couldn't do anything about the stunts, and/or maybe bc it's still difficult for me to accept he's really gone or bc it doesn't matter to me at this moment. Or bc I haven't actually sat down to think about what it means that he's gone. I've just been thinking of the pain all of Liam's loved ones are in right now and will be in for the foreseeable future. And I include Zayn in this. I also don't really want to think about it bc I think I might get angry. We've all seen Liam's video on snapchat from last month, where he said he was stunting and forced to do things he didn't want to do and to send help. I often used to say that I didn't understand why the boys accepted this situation instead of just getting out, consequences be damned. Ofc it's easier said than done. But I thought maybe they thought it was worth it in some way. But then, Louis got out. Zayn got out. (In some way, I mean they have privacy and a real career, like Niall and Harry). I guess I will never understand why Liam was still the only one so stuck in this shitty situation. Why couldn't he live his life in peace like Zayn and only appear when he released music? Why couldn't he find a better team or why did he even accept to go along for so long? Why did people let him? Why?! That's what I want to know. Fucking why. And I want Liam's image/reputation to be redeemed. Anyway I digressed I'm sorry.

I just sincerely hope Zayn will be ok. Jaymi who was in Union J lost his soon-to-be-husband a couple months ago (Olly was buried the day they were supposed to get married last month). They'd been together for 14 years. And Olly died in similar circumstances (a fall from the 3rd floor of a hotel). And as incredibly awful as this is, knowing that other people are going through similar grief helps a bit, and I hope it will help Zayn and Liam's loved ones know they're not alone. (Edit: I'm not saying these deaths are linked, Olly's death is an accident, Jaymi was there when it happened. This paragraph is about not being fully alone in grief because other ppl go through similar things).

Idek if I've answered your question. I guess basically the stunts don't cross my mind coz it's not important to me. These past few years when Liam was alive it wasn't important (tho I hated it) bc I accepted the boys made their own choices. And now it's not important bc it won't bring Liam back and bc his loved ones matter more to me. Now, if I'm actually wrong about my beliefs then it is what it is and I feel for his exes/gf/child, and if the maya thing is true I still think addiction made him act that way and that if he'd got a chance to really get better this wouldn't have happened again. If I'm not wrong tho, I truly feel for Zayn who doesn't get to grieve the way he deserves to. Tho I'm glad he has loved ones who know the truth and who can support him the right way.

I hope this helps. Feel free to tell me if you want to discuss this further or anything ❤️

(Link to the videos of Liam from snapchat: x)

[sc0lippi]

rewatched turnabout (the ace attorney musical) and im really fond of all the little moments with maya so here’s the one with gumshoe

as bonus here’s the initial sketch. i drew this as fast as possible in a panic while in the middle of playing a survival game

[tokyo-tower-symbolism]

Some fun stuff I saw in that first scene in the practice room

So when Karen is the first one in, she's drawn to the center of the stage

Mahiru only enters the stage after Karen invites her

But despite Karen taking the lead, Mahiru is the one who teaches and is more flexible, showing Mahiru's talents that she's just not aware of yet

The first to enter are Junna and Claudine, the hardest workers who are always first except for the student on day duty

Nana is here too, but we never actually see Nana enter. She just slips in undetected and is already in the middle of the conversation, and isn't that just a microcosm of how she is in the rest of the show

We also see Futaba, and how she's resigned to Kaoruko's selfishness, but will absolutely call out anyone else

Also an underrated thing that is hard to show in screencaps is that when Maya enters, the music and the background chatter all come to a close because she is that big of a deal.

(Also we never saw her enter, and just like Nana we only see their effect on the others HMMMMMM)

Although we do get to see Claudine go from playfully teasing to being all business and focusing on Maya once she's entered the room

We also see Kaoruko drop her sleepy persona and look determined. And a cute little moment is that she raises her arm up for Futaba to pull her up and Futaba doesn't even need to look to know what to do. She knows Kaoruko's laziness is just an act.

[nayziiz]

Stay | LN4

Summary: A new romantic prospect puts things into perspective in the best and worst ways possible.

Pairing: Lando Norris x OC (Cara)

Warnings: None

Masterlist

CHAPTER 2

The golden hues of twilight bathed Monaco in a soft, ethereal glow, while Lando and Cara found themselves nestled in the cosy confines of the kitchen, their laughter mingling with the tantalising aromas wafting from the sizzling grill. With practised ease, they moved in perfect harmony, their movements fluid and synchronised as they embarked on the culinary adventure that lay before them.

Together, they diced and sliced, grilled and tossed, their shared laughter punctuating the tranquil evening air as they revelled in each other's company. Amidst the clatter of pots and pans, their banter danced like music, a symphony of friendship and camaraderie that filled the kitchen with warmth and light.

Max and Pietra, their voices drifting in from the balcony, busied themselves with setting the table, their laughter echoing in the tranquil night air. With a shared sense of anticipation, they awaited the feast that awaited them, eager to partake in the culinary delights that Lando and Cara had lovingly prepared.

Cara paused in her task of slicing carrots and cabbage for the slaw, her attention momentarily drawn towards the door by the unexpected knock. With a bemused smile, she turned to Lando, who was deftly manoeuvring around the sizzling pan of chicken strips.

“You mind getting that? Kind of busy here,” Lando's request was accompanied by a playful dodge, his focus unwavering despite the flashes of oil splattering from the pan.

With a nod of agreement, Cara set down her knife and made her way to the door, her curiosity piqued by the unexpected interruption. With a quick glance over her shoulder, she chuckled softly at Lando's antics before turning her attention back to the task at hand.

Cara's grin widened as she wiped her hands on a cloth, her amusement at Lando's culinary antics still dancing in her eyes as she made her way to the door. With a sense of anticipation, she swung the door open, fully expecting to greet Max and Pietra with a playful jest or two.

But her playful banter was cut short as her gaze fell upon Maya standing before her, her presence a sudden interruption in the tranquil rhythm of the evening. Despite the surprise, Cara greeted Maya with a warm smile, her voice tinged with genuine warmth.

“Hey, Maya,” she greeted, stepping aside to usher her into the apartment. But to her surprise, Maya remained rooted to the spot, her demeanour guarded and aloof.

“Hi, I'm looking for Lando,” Maya responded, her tone clipped and brusque.

“He's in the kitchen,” Cara replied, gesturing in the direction of the bustling kitchen where Lando's culinary endeavours were well underway. But Maya's response was curt, her words laced with a hint of disdain.

“I know where the kitchen is, doll,” she retorted, her tone dripping with condescension as she breezed past Cara and into the apartment.

Cara watched in silence as Maya disappeared into the depths of the apartment, a sense of unease settling in the pit of her stomach. And as she lingered in the doorway, the echoes of Maya's sharp words hung in the air, a silent reminder of the complexities that lurked beneath the surface of their tranquil evening.

Maya's icy demeanour pierced through the warmth of the evening. Cara felt a pang of discomfort gnawing at the edges of her composure. Yet, for the sake of preserving the fragile peace for Lando's sake, she swallowed her unease and chose to let the moment pass without confrontation.

Turning away from the unsettling scene that unfolded in the foyer, Cara made her way through the apartment, her steps measured and deliberate. The sound of laughter and chatter spilled forth from the kitchen, mingling with the tantalising aromas of grilled chicken and fresh vegetables.

When she passed by the kitchen, a brief glimpse caught her eye, a fleeting moment of intimacy between Lando and Maya as they shared a kiss, leaving a bitter taste lingering in her mouth. With a heavy sigh, she pushed the unsettling image from her mind and continued on her way, her resolve firm as she sought solace in the tranquillity of the balcony.

Max and Pietra were already seated on the balcony, their faces illuminated by the soft glow of the evening lights of Monte Carlo. With a grateful smile, Cara joined them, her heart heavy with the weight of unspoken thoughts and emotions.

Cara's words hung in the air, a hesitant warning tinged with apprehension as she stepped out onto the balcony, her gaze seeking solace in the familiar faces of Max and Pietra.

“Just a warning,” Cara started. “Maya's here.”

“No fucking way,” Max's response was swift and vehement, his frustration palpable as he processed the unwelcome news. Sensing the tension mounting, Cara urged for calm, her voice gentle yet firm. 

“Just be nice to her for the night. It will mean a lot to Lando,” she implored, her eyes pleading for understanding.

“It would mean more to me if he just dumped her ass,” he countered, his voice edged with a hint of bitterness.

Max's retort was swift and uncompromising, his protective instincts flaring to life in defence of his friend Pietra, interjected with a soothing tone, her words laced with empathy.

“It's just one night, my love,” she reassured Max, her hand reaching out to gently squeeze his hand in a silent gesture of solidarity.

Max's keen intuition didn't fail him as he observed Cara's restlessness with a furrowed brow, his concern mounting with each furtive glance she cast towards the door. Sensing her discomfort like a palpable tension in the air, he couldn't help but feel a twinge of unease gnawing at the edges of his composure.

“What's bothering you?” Max's question was gentle yet probing, his gaze fixed on Cara with an intensity that bespoke his genuine concern.

“Nothing,” she lied, her tone strained as she struggled to mask the turmoil brewing beneath the surface. Cara's response was swift, her attempt to deflect his inquiry evident in the casual shrug that accompanied her words. 

But Max, ever the vigilant protector of his friends, refused to be placated by her dismissive answer. With a subtle raise of his eyebrows, he persisted, his unwavering gaze daring her to speak the truth. Before Cara could conjure up another evasion, the sound of footsteps approached from behind, heralding the arrival of Lando and Maya onto the balcony.

“Maya, you remember Max, Pietra, and Cara?” Lando asked.

Lando's introduction drew the attention of the group, his voice laced with a subtle warmth as he gestured towards Max, Pietra, and Cara. As he rested a protective hand on Maya's lower back, his affection for her palpable in the gentle press of his touch, he awaited their response with an expectant smile.

“Yeah,” Maya nodded in acknowledgment, her gaze sweeping over Max and Pietra with a casual indifference. Yet, when her eyes lingered on Cara, a subtle shift in her demeanour caught Max's attention.

The prolonged scrutiny didn't escape Max's notice, his instincts honed by years of keen observation flickering to life in response to the subtle tension that hung in the air. Sensing the unspoken undercurrents at play, he exchanged a knowing glance with Pietra, their silent communication speaking volumes in the quietude of the night.

Cara, though outwardly composed, felt a shiver of unease prickling at the back of her neck as Maya's gaze lingered upon her. A sense of apprehension crept over her, the weight of Maya's scrutiny stirring a disquieting sense of vulnerability within her. Yet, with a forced smile and a polite nod, Cara met Maya's gaze head-on.

“Dinner should be ready in about five minutes,” Lando's announcement filled the air, a sense of anticipation rippled through the group, their appetites whetted by the tantalising aroma of the meal that awaited them.

With a tender gesture, Lando pressed a kiss to Maya's cheek, his affectionate gesture drawing a fleeting glance from Cara before she averted her gaze, her fingers tracing the rim of her wine glass with a feigned nonchalance.

“It smells great, Lando,” Pietra's words broke the silence, her genuine compliment met with a radiant grin from Lando.

His pride evident in the sparkle of his eyes, he offered a gracious nod of acknowledgement before excusing himself to attend to the final preparations.

“It's so nice that you guys came to spend the summer break with Lan,” Maya hummed, her voice carrying a hint of genuine warmth as she settled into her seat opposite Cara at the table. “He's just been so exhausted the last few weeks.”

Cara's gaze remained fixed on her table setting, her fingers tracing idle patterns along the rim of her wine glass as she struggled to maintain her composure in the face of Maya's unwavering scrutiny.

“That's what travelling so much does,” Max mumbled gruffly, his tone tinged with a hint of bitterness as he lifted his glass to his lips, taking a long gulp of wine in an attempt to drown out the discomfort that lingered in the air.

Maya's attention shifted momentarily to Max before returning to Cara, her gaze piercing in its intensity as she directed her next question towards the silent figure seated across from her.

“Are you all staying here in the apartment while you're here?” she inquired, her curiosity palpable. Before Cara could formulate a response, Pietra interjected with a warm smile, her voice laced with genuine appreciation.

“Yeah, Lando's been such a great host,” she responded, her words a subtle reminder of the kindness and generosity they had experienced since their arrival.

Despite Pietra's efforts to steer the conversation away from the palpable tension that lingered between Cara and Maya, the latter's attention remained fixated on Cara, her gaze unwavering in its intensity. And as the uneasy silence stretched between them, Cara found herself unable to meet Maya's probing stare, her gaze averted as she sought refuge in the safety of her own thoughts.

“So, Cara, where's your boyfriend? Lan mentioned you were seeing someone?” Maya asked, changing the topic once again.

Maya's question sliced through the air, disrupting the fragile peace that had settled over the table like a jagged shard of glass. Cara's forced smile faltered, her grip tightening around the stem of her wine glass as she struggled to mask the sudden surge of discomfort that washed over her.

“Uhm, not recently,” Cara replied with forced nonchalance, her words tinged with a subtle undercurrent of unease. With a deliberate motion, she raised the glass to her lips, taking a sip of wine in a futile attempt to quell the rising tide of emotions threatening to overwhelm her.

The mention of her nonexistent boyfriend struck a nerve, dredging up memories of failed relationships and unspoken regrets. Yet, amidst the tumult of her thoughts, one thing stood out with piercing clarity—Maya's casual use of the nickname "Lan." The moniker, reserved for those who shared a deep bond of love and affection with Lando, felt like a cruel mockery in Maya's mouth. It was a name that Cara herself had used sparingly, a tender reminder of the intimacy they shared as friends. And to hear it slip so effortlessly from Maya's lips felt like a betrayal of that intimacy, a violation of the unspoken boundaries that defined their relationship.

“It's a good thing then, Monaco is full of eligible bachelors,” Maya commented with a soft giggle of amusement.

Maya's comment hung in the air like a taunt, its underlying implications veiled beneath the guise of casual conversation. Cara's forced smile faltered, her fingers tightening around the stem of her wine glass as she struggled to maintain her composure in the face of Maya's thinly veiled jibe.

“Cara! Your slaw!” Lando's voice rang out from the kitchen with a note of playful urgency.

Lando's voice cut through the tension like a beacon of light, drawing her attention away from the uncomfortable exchange at the table. With a silent nod of acknowledgment, Cara rose from her seat, her movements purposeful as she excused herself from the table and made her way back to the kitchen.

As she stepped into the familiar confines of the kitchen, the warmth of Lando's smile enveloped her like a comforting embrace, banishing the lingering shadows of doubt and insecurity that had plagued her moments before. With a grateful sigh, she returned his smile, her heart lifting at the sight of him.

“I'd finish it up, but you're the slaw master,” Lando declared with a playful grin, his eyes sparkling with admiration as he gestured towards the bowl of slaw perched on the counter.

Cara chuckled softly at his jest, her own smile mirroring his as she accepted the unspoken challenge with a sense of playful determination. With a deft hand, she resumed her task, her fingers moving with practised precision as she added the final touches to her signature dish.

As she mixed the crisp vegetables with a generous drizzle of her famous dressing, the kitchen was filled with the tantalising aroma of herbs and spices, a testament to Cara's culinary prowess. Lando, ever the eager assistant, leaned in closer, his eyes alight with anticipation as he dipped his finger into the bowl, stealing a taste of the savoury dressing before it was even finished.

“How do you do it? Every time it tastes better and better,” Lando groaned with satisfaction, his voice laced with genuine awe as he threw his head back in blissful abandon, his moan of pleasure echoing in the confines of the kitchen.

Lando's concern was palpable as he watched Cara, his brow furrowed with worry as he took in her uncharacteristic silence. The absence of her usual cheerful banter and infectious laughter weighed heavily on him, leaving a hollow ache in the pit of his stomach. Lando's concern deepened with each passing moment, his eyes searching her face for any sign of the vibrant energy that usually radiated from her.

“Hey, what's wrong?” he inquired, his voice soft with concern as he took a step closer, the tongs forgotten in his hand as he watched her with earnest eyes.

Cara's gaze flickered up to meet his, her forced smile faltering in the face of his unwavering scrutiny. For a moment, she hesitated, the weight of unspoken words heavy on her tongue, but she quickly shook her head, dismissing his concern with a gentle shake of her head.

“Nothing,” she replied, her voice barely above a whisper as she avoided his gaze.

Lando wasn't convinced, his intuition telling him that something was amiss. He took another step closer, his expression filled with genuine concern as he reached out to gently touch her arm.

“I can see you're not yourself, Cara,” he insisted, his voice gentle yet firm as he searched her eyes for any hint of the turmoil that lay beneath the surface.

Cara's resolve wavered under his persistent gaze, the mask of indifference slipping further with each passing moment. With a sigh, she relented, her shoulders sagging with the weight of unspoken burdens.

“We can chat tomorrow, yeah?” she deflected, her voice tinged with a note of vulnerability.

Lando nodded in understanding, his concern undiminished as he made a silent promise to himself to be there for her when she was ready to open up.

“If you need anything, tell me, okay?” he reassured her, his voice soft yet unwavering in its sincerity.

“Uh huh,” Cara agreed, her response tinged with a sense of gratitude for his unwavering support.

He wasn't sure if pulling her in for a hug would comfort her or cause her to cry, so he opted for a soft kiss on the forehead before walking out with the wraps on a serving dish. Cara followed suit with her bowl of slaw.

As Lando and Cara approached the table, their arms laden with culinary delights, Maya's gaze lingered on them with a mixture of amusement and intrigue. The sight of Cara's slight blush and the goofy grin that adorned Lando's face only served to deepen the mystery, leaving Maya to wonder about the unspoken dynamics that bound them together.

When Lando settled beside Maya, the unexpected touch of her hand on his thigh sent a jolt of surprise coursing through him. He could feel the weight of her gesture, a silent declaration of intimacy that caught him off guard in the presence of his friends. With a subtle shift in his demeanour, he refrained from glancing at Max or Pietra, choosing instead to focus his attention on Cara, whose discomfort was palpable even amidst the lively chatter and laughter that filled the air.

Max, ever the astute observer, couldn't help but notice the subtle interplay between Lando and Cara, their unspoken connection crackling with tension beneath the surface. The way Lando's gaze lingered on Cara, a silent plea for understanding etched in his eyes, spoke volumes about the depth of their bond—a bond that Max had long suspected held untapped potential.

But Lando, lost in the tumult of his own thoughts, remained oblivious to Max's silent scrutiny. His attention was consumed by the enigmatic figure seated across from him, her guarded demeanour a stark contrast to the easy camaraderie that had defined their interactions in the past.

As he watched Cara, her eyes flitting restlessly around the table, Lando felt a pang of unease gnawing at the edges of his composure. He made a mental note to speak with her later, to unravel the mystery of her discomfort and offer whatever support she needed to ease her troubled mind.

[jakeyt]

Covet: Chapter 12 (Sneak Peek)

a/n:

hi, friends!

yet again, I deliver a 4,000 word 'sneak peek.' l m f a o.

like I've previously mentioned, the monstrosity that is Chapter 12 was initially part of Chapter 11. buuut due to these two being quite the stubborn pair, the chapters continue on their pattern of being much longer than the I anticipated. hopefully they tone down after chapter 12 comes out, but... there is no telling. lmao.

the chapter count has increased by like 2 (? I think.....) chapters, if you check out the masterlist you'll see that. the ideas just keep on coming on my long drives to work everyday, as I blast the playlist to this silly little story.

plz enjoy the cringe manip of Josh... I couldn't help making it. just had to see him in the booth at Jungle Juice for god knows what reason l o l.

Warnings: (as always: MDNI 18+); vivid recollection of unprotected p in v sex; self doubt; body image issues; sadness; heartache; pregnancy; mentions of infidelity (sry not sry, maya); as always, if i missed anything that is triggering to you, PLEASE lmk!

-🌼🌼🌼- 

Arguably, as you left that yoga class, you felt the most relaxed you had in a long while. 

Your belly was still heavy at your front, but everything else felt so loose. Weightless. It was nice.

Josh had decided afterwards that it was a good plan to get a couple of smoothies. And who were you to argue that? It was even more tempting since he’d offered to buy them.

The drive to and from all of your ventures had been nice. You two had listened to music most of the car ride – enjoying the soul music you’d both bonded over several years ago. 

But, as soon as “You’re All I Need To Get By” came on the shuffle, you quickly reached forward to skip past that one. And, it must have been your lucky day because as soon as that one was out of the way, the other song from that morning on the living room floor was playing. 

"(You Make Me Feel Like) A (motherfucking) Natural Woman", to your lovely surprise. Because why not?

The only songs you’d skipped and, of course, Josh had noticed. 

He’d snorted at you, making you glance in his direction. “What did Miss Aretha do to you?” 

“Nothing,” you shook your head with a lip stuck out. “Just didn’t feel like listening to those songs, I guess.”

I imagine your brother stark naked, inside of me, when I hear those songs, if you must know, you thought with a skip to your heart at the memory. And that’s just not what I need at the moment, Joshua.

And, with absolutely zero surprise, you were back in that damn living room. No point in skipping the songs, it seemed. The gray morning, rain pittering against the windows. The stupid idea you’d had, forever haunting your association with the Queen of Soul.

You’d just sat up on your elbows to watch him as he thumbed through the records, appreciating the view. “You pick and I’ll let you know if I like.”

And, as he’d searched through the albums, you’d just let your mind wander, right along with your eyes. . .

His body was a work of art. Always would be. Your favorite work of art. 

His thighs, ever-muscular, from the way they flexed when he’d move his body with his guitar on stage. 

That perfectly round ass that was undoubtedly gifted to him by the body gods. 

And his broad shoulders – strong to match his equally strong personality.

When he’d turned a bit towards you, you’d been given an image you’d never forget. His eyes, quickly scanning the back of a vinyl. And as he did so, your eyes had instantly found his straining dick. 

And, in the current moment, right next to his goddamned twin brother, you had to cross your damn legs at the thought of Jake’s dick. Fuck everything. Even if you shouldn't, all you wanted was Jacob Kiszka. All. You. Wanted. It was stupid to ever think you could convince yourself out of that particular desire. 

You could still imagine every detail from the morning. His tip, swollen from being pulled mid-sex. Your clit thrummed and twitched in current time at the thought, remembering how he'd still glistened from your dripping center. 

He’d turned to you fully, the Aretha Franklin vinyl in his grip – her Greatest Hits. You’d found his eyes. They were questioning, but you hadn’t been able to focus entirely on his glance. No, you’d looked away from his eyes to admire your most favorite parts of his body. 

His toned pecs and his solid stomach— fuck. They made you fucking weak.

There were truly no words for the way he was built— pecs naturally firm and rounded with lean muscle. 

And his stomach— just a little soft and the perfect finish to it all, complimenting him just right— finishing out his sturdy, powerful stature. 

His aura would always be compelling. He was utterly beautiful, with his sparkling amber-brown eyes, flowing chestnut locks – even longer now than then – and his sharp features. And the way he was built matched so well with how he carried himself. Without even trying, he could control any room he was in. 

(And control you with a simple snap of his fingers.)

He was honestly what all of your dreams were made of.

And, in moments from the past, like the sacred one you were remembering. . . you remember wishing everyday – more than anything – that he was yours. Still wanted him to be yours. You could remember thinking. . . no matter how bad you could be for him, your selfish wants had you constantly feeling pulled towards Jake.

But. . . he wasn’t yours. Not then. Not now. 

And that bitter thought had helped to snap you out of your trance on that simplistic, perfect morning. You'd finally looked at him to answer. 

He was smirking, knowingly. “I love your body, too, Beautiful.”

Your thighs pressed even closer together as you tapped out the beat of the current song on your thighs. A Minnie Riperton song. Just focus on Minnie. Tried to remember the moment you were currently in. . . But you couldn’t. Not yet.

Wait. Minnie. This song. You focused for a second. Was fucking "Memory Lane" playing? O-kay. Your life was truly hilarious. (Meaning, it was, in fact, not hilarious in the slightest.)

You tried to tune her out, rejecting the lyrics that hit far too close to home for your taste. But all that happened when you tuned her out, was Jake repeating the statement about your body. . . You could only hear those words from his mouth on repeat when you squeezed your eyes shut, so tightly.

With a gentle touch, you placed a hand to the bottom of your tummy to hold it. Your body now was nowhere near the same as it had been then. . . 

How the fuck would he talk about your body now? You knew how he felt about some of your newer assets. But. . . how would it feel now to hear him say things like that about your body? During sex? His dick, impossibly hard and leaking for your current, swollen body? Your belly, your bigger breasts? Your fuller thighs. . . Would he look at you the same during sex now? 

Fuck. Why were you even thinking like that?! You were imagining things that were only breaking your heart. . . Getting your mind in a dangerous space it did not need to be in.

Realizing it was slightly safer in your memories, you leaned back against your headrest to feel the rest of the moment.

You’d flushed at the words then. Even going the extra mile to roll your eyes. Tried your best to play off the way his words made your heart flutter. Ridiculous attempt. With a peek briefly at the record, you nodded at the choice. “Aretha is always a yes.”

“Agreed.”

He’d turned to put it on the Crosley, and as soon as the needle hummed against the record, making its wonderful crackling sound, you knew he’d made the right choice. This record was something else.

And now, the Greatest Hits vinyl held your heart in ways you could’ve never imagined on that rainy morning.

You could remember how it felt to watch him – the intoxicating combination of seeing him walk back to you, with some of the most incredible music backing him. . . Shit. (If you know, you fucking know.)

“I hope you don’t mind. I skipped past the first few,” he’d said as he came back to you, falling to his knees beside you. So near to you and ready to resume sex with you. There'd been no constraints. No girlfriends. No ugly voice in the back of your head telling you how terrible you were for him. Things were still perfect. 

You’d smiled up at him. “Perfectly fine. This is the best song on the entire record anyway.” 

“I think so, too,” he said, eyes lifting with a grin.

God. You felt tears climbing your throat, right next to Josh, as you thought of his sweet face. The smile on his lips that could have cured every single piece of trauma ever. . . If you would have let it. He was so goddamn perfect. And you were. . . well. . . you.

Then, he’d come back to you. Laid on his back for you as you angled your body to straddle him, sinking onto him.

The look on his face when you fucked him was one of your favorite sights. He’d always watched you so closely. . .whether it be your face, your breasts, your ass, or your center that wrapped around him, so tight. He’d scrunch his brows and let his mouth open a bit with certain movements of your hips, and bite his lip at other times. . . 

But, in moments like this one, with one hand holding your face while the other gripped your hip, a small, close-mouthed smile on his soft, plush lips. . . His emotion-filled eyes, boring into yours . . .

Your world had always tipped slightly on its axis when he’d do shit like that. Moments like the one from many mornings ago. . . Those moments had never failed to make a whole lot of gray in what should have been a strictly black and white situation. 

And, as you’d listened to the soulful voice flowing quietly from the record player, your thoughts drifted further. . .

When my soul was in the lost and found,

You came along to claim it.

I didn't know just what was wrong with me,

Till your kiss helped me name it.

The song had perfectly summed up how you felt about this man. The same man who had once been the bane of your existence, was now a light on your darkest days. 

And, in the present time. . . the father of your baby. Fuck.

As you’d glanced down to watch him, his hips had begun to move on their own – never failing to make you feel complete and right. . . You truly couldn’t imagine your life without him. 

Having him around made you feel . . . whole. Without even knowing or trying, he’d helped you find missing pieces to your puzzle. Found hidden pieces of your soul that you hadn’t seen in a long time. Some good pieces. Some bad pieces. But all necessary pieces of you. Pieces you’d forgotten even existed. And by simply being near you, he made you feel authentic in a way you’d never felt with another man. 

As you’d continued riding him, you had leaned down on your forearms to get close to his face. His handsome, handsome face. You’d given him a long kiss. A kiss that you’d hoped, then, was able to say thank you. . . Because, truly, you were so grateful for him. 

But when you’d separated your lips from his and pressed your perspired forehead to his own, you’d found the deep pools of his eyes that held so much of your world in them. And you’d known then that you had to say the words out loud.

“Thank you,” you’d whispered, hoping he’d understand as new tears had clouded your vision. Your hips were moving languidly at the perfect pace, matching the slow rocking of his hips. You’d been holding onto him, keeping rhythm with the beautiful, now-special song.

He’d held your gaze for more than a few moments, a secret smile forming in his eyes as he spoke. “Thank you.”

You’d studied him seriously, the feeling in his eyes seeming to match the longing in your heart. Both of you had stayed there for a minute, taking the other in. 

You’d kissed him once more. And, rather than continuing the conversation, you’d focused on finding a release for you both. 

That hadn’t even been “You’re All I Need To Get By”. . . Not yet. No, that song, that blissful melody from your memory, was “You Make Me Feel (Like A Natural Woman)”. . . And that he did – he made you feel like the melodies of that song. Always would. He was every lyric of that song, sealed forever in your heart that way.

But the next song. . . When you’d fallen apart on top of him. And him, just barely pulling out in time, to finish onto your tummy. . . All while the song had been surrounding you, enveloping your senses. . .

“Y/n!” Josh’s voice called to you from the current moment, his fingers making you jump a bit, your eyes hurriedly blinking open as he continued to snap in front of your face. “Earth to y/n!”

Fuck. How were you going to explain getting lost like that? Thankfully, your eyes had been closed almost the entire time. You could just say you’d been sleeping. 

“I was just sleeping, Josh,” you lamely explained, looking to your right, hoping you were already at the cafe.

And, for once, fate had worked in your favor, as he’d just parallel parked at Jungle Juice. Perfect timing. Avoid avoid avoid.

You hadn’t missed the curious look in his eye after your barely-there explanation or the way he’d opened his mouth to begin to question you. But as soon as he’d parked, you were hopping out of that Jetta. 

-🌼🌼🌼-

You were just sitting down, pomegranate smoothie in hand, at a table inside. Josh was still at the counter, you having instantly put distance between the two of you. As you sat, your mind briefly drifted to the mundane task of taking a seat. You noticed how much easier than normal it was to simply sit comfortably, thanks to the yoga. 

Soon, Josh was sitting down across from you. And, after he took one tiny drink of his smoothie, he pushed it ahead of him with a huff. His fluffy mess of curls flowed around his head with the noise. 

There should’ve been no surprise when he didn’t drop what you'd started in the car. His ass had practically just touched his booth bench when he was asking you. “What the fuck is it with those songs?”

“What?” You crinkled your brow at that. He hadn’t ever been around before for you to skip past those songs. For all he knew, you’d literally fallen asleep after the relaxing yoga class. “Just didn’t feel like hearing them today. And I got tire–.”

“Jake gets weird when they come on, too. . .,” he interrupted with a raised brow, trailing off as if lost in thought while addressing you. “Specifically “You’re All I Need”,” he mumbled, sort of to himself as he looked down at the table. Then his eyes flashed back to yours. “And, no. You were not sleeping. Faker.”

Damn. Yeah, there was no explaining your way out of this one. Were you really going to have to be honest with him? It did not feel like the time – for more reasons than one. But you decided you’d say what you could. . . Maybe you could make him uncomfortable enough to move on. . .

“Jake and I just had some incredible sex to those songs,” you began, eyes not once leaving his. He held firm, even after that blatant statement. Okay. Second try. But you had to look down for this part, too embarrassed to look at Josh as you said it. “Got really close to making the baby that morning rather than the night we got high. He pulled out just in time to aim it on my bell–.”

“Noooo thanks,” the curly-headed twin stopped you, holding up a hand with his lips turned down. “That’s enough. Truly. Thank you, I now know what I need to know.”

You raised a brow, a tiny smirk on your lips as a laugh squeaked past your lips. “Joshua. You didn’t need to know any of that.”

“Well. . . maybe you’re right,” he surmised with another small sip from his green drink. 

“I usually am,” you answered, relieved that he’d gotten all he wanted – no, needed – to know. “So, how are things going with–?” “Also, you are not ‘usually right’, my dear,” he corrected you, air quotes and all. His nose twitched with his own grin as he watched you narrow your eyes in his direction. “I can tell you that right now. Your little speech from last night. . . You and Jake both. Fuck,” he snorted before taking another drink. He covered his mouth with a silent laugh before smoothing the hand down the side of his face. “Both of you are the worst liars to ever live.”

The breath you should’ve been breathing got stuck in your lungs. Where was he going with this? This had the potential to be an extremely embarrassing and awkward conversation you weren’t in the headspace to have. “What are you talking about, Josh?” 

“You and my twin, claiming you were ‘nothing’,” he began, lips quirked with a close-lipped grin and the air quotes coming out to play again with the word you’d both used to describe your situationship. “That all your relationship was was one night of meaningless sex that resulted in my niece or nephew.”

Niece, you silently added. You suddenly wanted to tell him really badly. But you would let Jake do that. Made a note to tell him he could do that whenever he was ready. 

“I just find it funny,” he finished, his mouth still curved into a smirk. “I’m pretty sure we all knew that you were lying out of your asses. Well. . . except for that Theo guy. He’s kind of a moron.”

How did you even respond to this? Did you lie? Confide? Half-heartedly agree? Completely avoid it and tell him you didn’t want to discuss it? Fuck if you knew. 

So, you just began talking. 

“How are you so confident in this assumption that we were lying about it being nothing?” You quizzed him, taking a drink to hide a little. “You didn’t even know that we were doing it while we were doing it. Did you ever stop to think that maybe you didn’t know because it was nothing more than sex?”

“Oh, y/n. How in the world can you begin to question my empathic tendencies? You know I’d sensed the difference in Jake,” he reminded you, noting back to your day of the first OB appointment. “And, the more I thought back on it, I remember there being a rise in your spirits during the summertime as well. . . Only towards the end of it did you get all mopey. When, I can only assume, you started doubting yourself and Jacob. Enough so that Jake wanted to host a night to raise your spirits. . .,” he trailed off, taking another drink before tapping a finger to his chin, sitting the cup on the table.

“But, yes. You were nothing, mhm,” he continued with a sardonic nod, closing his eyes briefly with a mischievous grin before he was looking at you again. “You both were noticeably different – good different. And he noticed every shift in your mood. . . You got emotional way back on the day of that first ultrasound when I brought up his relationship with Maya. . . Um, what else? Oh! The motherfucker takes you to therapy! Of course he does, because you feel safe with him. Big fucking deal, by the way. And, yes, I know all of this, y/n – I’m watchful. Don’t you argue that fact with me,” he pointed at you with a raised brow and a slight smile. “. . .But. You were nothing. Okay.”

Well. “I–.”

“And then last night,” Josh giggled, taking a sip of his smoothie before placing his hands on the table in excitement. “Jake had his hands up your shorts, touching you. . . like that in front of everyone–.” 

“It was a card he was playing, Jo–.”

“. . .Whispering in your ear, your fuckin’ body reacting to it. His bodily reaction to it – I mean, with an unfortunate glance downwards, anyone was privy to that situation in his pants,” he outwardly cringed, lips turned down as he shook his head at the thought. He’d been that noticeably hard? Fuck. “And then, going to the bathroom to relieve himself with everyone in the living room!” Josh couldn’t stop his wail of a laugh at the end of the last line, attracting multiple eyes from fellow customers at the sound. 

“Josh, be quiet–,” you tried to intervene, once again getting stopped with his rambling.

“Well, not everyone, per se. I wish Elsie could have experienced that shit,” he shook his head again, but this time with a laugh as if remembering a fond memory. “She would have gotten a kick out of the free porn!”

Free PORN?! Josh.

“Joshua!” You were stunned, his voice still a higher decibel than it should have been for a proper establishment like Jungle Juice. Voice hushed, you leaned towards him. “Please quiet the fuck down.”

He observed your expression, still cackling. But soon, it calmed down. Calmed down enough to where he was still letting out little huffs of laughter, but his eyes bulged a bit. He seemed to remember at that very moment that it wasn’t just the two of you. Face set straighter than before, he turned, looking around to hastily address the people near you with an apology. 

Meanwhile, your cheeks were positively burning at everything he’d said. How in the hell did you even begin to address that shit? And why was it always on you and never Jake? 

When he was facing you again, you decided to try that line. Just to gain your bearings. “Are you going to quiz Jake like this? Or is it only the emotional pregnant lady who’s getting the heat?”

“Oh, he got it first. I actually crashed his and Maya’s morning this morning,” he replied, waving it off. Your stomach dropped at the thought of them in bed together, like you knew it shouldn’t. “Well. . . if I can even phrase it as such. Maya was getting completely ignored by him. He’d separated himself as much as possible from her, his body was practically pushed against the wall. I know she noticed how far detached he was, though. . . She was looking his way when I barged in, a sad look on her face and everything. Poor thing. Didn’t take much for me to make her leave.”

The way you snorted at that was unstoppable. He what? “Josh! You made her leave?”

“Well, again – if I can even phrase it like that,” he shrugged, one hand waving nonchalantly in the air with a roll of his eyes. “Like I said, she was already awake when I went in. I think she’d just woken up to notice he’d pulled totally away from her,” he grit his teeth, baring them with a hiss as he shook his head. “So it didn’t take much more than me asking if I could please talk to my brother for her to leave. She was already kind of pissy, so she readily agreed. I’m sure she thought I was going to confront him about blatantly cheating on her in front of us all.”

Blatantly cheating. Harsh words. True words. You felt guilty at them. Because, yes, you’d completely joined in on Jake’s antics – helped him be unfaithful to her. To be fair, you couldn’t have stopped yourself if you tried. . . Hence your new determination to be nothing more than a friend. 

As much as it sucked.

“Did you? Confront him?” Was all you could croak out. 

“I did confront him about it, yes,” he nodded assuredly, his tone stern. Damn. Was he actually super pissed? Why had he been all giggly if he was so angry? 

So, you started apologizing. You felt really bad and you didn’t know what else to do. 

“I’m sorry, Josh. I don’t know what came over me. I just couldn’t–.”

“Help yourself?” 

You blinked with a nervous gulp. “Yes. I couldn’t help myself.”

“Well, of course not,” he replied, intonation light once again. You blinked again, this time in shock at the change in attitude. He continued before you could question it. “He couldn’t either, it seemed. There was no other reason for him to act so rashly in front of all of us.”

It was silent for a few seconds, your brain blanking on what to even respond to that. You were curious what he’d said to Jake. What Jake had responded. But you were scared to ask – didn’t want to make even more of an ass out of yourself by prying. 

Thankfully, Josh kept on before you could consider it any longer. “So, I told him this morning,” Yes! He was going to divulge. You tried not to look too interested. He cleared his throat, his eyes finding yours seriously, your stomach dropping at what he could have said. “I told him that if he’s going to do that shit, he needs to keep it out of Maya’s sight. Because, while I don’t condone cheating, I do condone my brother being happy. And hopefully, she’ll be out of the picture soon anyway, so the cheating won’t even have to be a thought. Keeping it out of her sight and all - won’t be an issue.”

Stunned. You were stunned. What the fuck?! Josh had told him what?!

You couldn’t stop staring at him. Your eyes, wide and expression shocked. The way your mouth hung open would have been more embarrassing had you been more aware of how much it gaped. But before you could give it much more thought, you were talking without thinking. 

“Excuse me?” You responded, rather loudly, you must say. "You told him what?!"

“Y/n!” Josh laughed, eyes bugged, pointing towards you before waving his hands theatrically around the restaurant. “‘Please quiet the fuck down.’”

-🌼🌼🌼-

a/n: I, personally, value Josh's opinions on the matter...... what about you? ;)

also. free porn. l m a o.

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