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tongue-like-a-razor · 1 year ago

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Brother's Best Friend - Part 5

Jake Seresin x F!Reader

A/N: Thanks for all the ideas you guys have been sending in! They're all so wonderful it's hard to choose what to write next haha Hope you guys like this chapter, inspired by some of the ideas sent in

Summary: The trials and tribulations of falling for your brother's best friend.

CW: Excessive drinking, swearing, slow burn, fluff

WC: 2000+

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Masterlist

“What are you wearing?”

You look up from your spot on the couch to see Jake standing at the entrance to the living room with a slightly bewildered expression. You grimace at him and then look down at your shirt. “Oh,” you respond with a laugh, remembering that you’d changed a few hours ago after spilling tomato sauce on your tank top. “It’s one of Bradley’s band tees.”

“No,” Jake corrects you, taking a single step forward. “It’s one of my band tees.”

You watch him steadily. “Okay,” you say slowly, not really sure what his problem is. “Do you want it back?” You rise from the couch and start pulling the shirt upward when you realize that you aren’t wearing bra. “Oh shit!” You clap a hand to your mouth. “You almost got a show,” you say with a laugh.

Jake’s eyes, which had drifted down to your bare abdomen as you were lifting the shirt, slide back up to your face. He doesn’t appear nearly as amused as you. On the contrary, he looks like he might pass out. “You – you’re wearing just my shirt?” he asks, his voice uncharacteristically brittle.

“Look, what was it doing crumpled up on one of our kitchen chairs, anyway?” you say defensively.

Jake licks his lips uncomfortably. He’s still holding your gaze but he isn’t responding.

You roll your eyes. “Oh god, don’t tell me there was another encounter in my house.”

Jake releases an unsteady sigh. “Would you call strip poker an encounter?”

“Jake!” you exclaim. “You have your own place!”

“It was a double date,” Jake responds sheepishly.

You shake your head. “Well, I hope you enjoyed seeing my brother’s ass.”

“Actually, your brother is surprisingly good at Texas hold’em.”

“Regardless!” You groan in frustration. “How do you walk out without wearing a shirt, Jake?”

Jake purses his lips. “I’m a little hazy on that part, to be honest.”

“You’re ridiculous,” you say.

“Well, you look ridiculous,” he counters.

You scoff. “I do not. I can totally pull off” – you drop your chin to examine the front of the shirt – “Pantera,” you finish with a slight cringe.

“Don’t make that face,” Jake says, pointing a cautioning finger at you.

You shrug. “You’re the one who said I look ridiculous.”

“Only because you’re drowning in in.”

“It’s not my fault you’re twice my size,” you retort, noticing that the hem of the t-shirt hangs so low that it hides the shorts you’re wearing underneath.

Jake takes another few steps forward, chuckling. “It’s actually pretty fucking cute that it goes all the way down to your knees,” he says, placing his hand over your head to ruffle your hair. “Keep it,” adds, and then drops onto your couch with a tired sigh.

“I can’t keep it,” you say. “People are going to ask me if I know any of their music –”

Jake waves a hand. “I’ll show you,” he says. “You’re gonna love it, trust me.”

You plop down onto the couch beside him and cross your legs. “Seems a little backwards.”

Jake looks over at you with a grin. “Suits your vibe.”

You smack him on the shoulder and he laughs. Then, there’s a knock on the door and you gasp. “Oh my god, I completely forgot to change for my date!”

Jake’s smile falters instantly. “You have a date?”

You give him a flat look. “Like you don’t.”

He shakes his head.

“Well, give it a minute, I guess,” you respond sarcastically, getting up.

Jake smirks and rises after you. “Maybe he’ll like your new look.”

You let out a nervous whimper and head for the door with Jake right on your heels. You pull open the door and nearly hit Jake with it because he’s so close behind you. You shake your head at him and then greet your boyfriend.

“Hey,” he responds hesitantly, his eyes darting between yours and Jake’s faces. “What’s going on?”

“Not much, come on in,” you say.

Jake remains silent, waiting to be introduced.

“Wow,” your boyfriend says. “What are you wearing?” He tilts his head to examine the shirt. “Pantera? Is that Spanish for panther? That's a lot of skulls.”

You notice Jake making a face at the back of his head and you give him a warning look. “I was just about to change,” you say with a tight smile.

Your boyfriend nods. “Good.”

Jake narrows his eyes and steps around your date to face him. “Hey there,” he says in a loud, exaggerated baritone. He holds out his hand in a gesture that seems more aggressive than polite.

You roll your eyes and rub your forehead irritably. “I’ll be right back,” you promise, eyeing your boyfriend apologetically as Jake throws you a massive grin.

You run up the stairs, taking them two at a time, as Jake begins grilling your boyfriend about the last time his vehicle was serviced.

You pull Jake’s t-shirt off and toss it in the hamper, and then you find a cute, backless top that looks great with your jean shorts. You glance at yourself in the full-length mirror before heading back down and smile. You’re a catch. Even if Jake Seresin will never see it that way.

You rush down the stairs just as Jake finishes instructing your boyfriend on how to check the pressure in his tires. The latter is watching him with a dubious expression.

“Alright, let’s roll!” you say, bouncing off the final step and charging the space between them.

Jake steps back as you crash into him, forcefully shoving him aside. “What time will you kids be back?” he asks as you hook your arm through your boyfriend’s and lead him out onto the porch.

You glance over your shoulder crossly. “No clue,” you say curtly, in response to which Jake gives you a once-over, as if he’s just noticed your attire.

When his eyes meet yours again, he’s wearing a more genuine expression. “Be careful,” he calls.

You wave a dismissive hand in his direction and turn to face your date, who is repeatedly checking to see if Jake has retreated into the house. “Is that your brother?” he asks.

…

Several hours and seven tequila shots later, you’re suddenly feeling extremely unwell. You stagger down the hallway, zigzagging between the walls toward the bathroom and, once you’re inside, you lock the door behind you and slide down the wall onto the floor.

You pull your phone out of your pocket, and it flies right out of your hand. With a groan, you crawl forward to pick it back up. You blink to focus your eyes on the screen, your thumb hovering over your brother’s name. You would call him, except that Bradley has been at the Hard Deck every night this past week, trying to woo the bartender. So, he probably isn’t in any condition to come and pick you up.

You sigh, squinting at Jake’s name in your contacts list. If you call him, he will never let you live this down. But the longer you wait, the faster the room spins around you and, by the time you tap on his number, you feel like you are on death’s doorstep, laying your back down on the cold, tiled floor.

“Hello?” Jake answers. “Y/N?” You can hear the edge in his tone despite the sounds of the bar in the background.

“Jake,” you say weakly.

“What’s going on?” he asks urgently as the background noises fade away. You hear the ring of the door as he steps outside. “Are you okay?”

“Mm-hm,” you lie. “I’m just very, very drunk. And I think I’m dying. The two are probably related.”

“Where are you?” he asks sternly and you hear the beep of his car as he unlocks the door.

“I’m at a house party,” you croak. “On the first floor. In the bathroom down the hall.”

You hear Jake sigh and then his car door slam when he pulls it shut. Next, you hear the engine. “The address, genius.”

“Oh,” you say. “Fuck if I know.”

“Drop a pin.”

“’Kay, hang on.” You lift the phone away from your ear and hold it up to send Jake your location. Only, your grip falters and your phone comes crashing down onto your face. “Ow!” you moan.

“Y/N?” Jake’s distressed voice is muffled by the fluffy bathroom mat on which your phone has landed.

You whimper and pick it back up. “Can you hurry?” you say, bringing the phone to your ear again.

“Y/N, I need you to concentrate, okay?” he says, steadily. “I still don’t know where you are.”

You let out a soft sob. “I’m in the bathroom!”

“For fuck’s sake, Bradshaw! Pay attention!” he yells and you flinch, nearly dropping your phone all over again. “I need the address!”

“Oh, right!” you exclaim. “Hang on.” You sit up and try again. “Did you get it?”

There’s a pause on the other end while Jake checks his phone. “Yeah, I got it. I’m ten minutes out.”

“Okay,” you respond with a slight whine. “That’s a very long time.”

“Don’t worry,” he says. “I’ll be there in five.”

“’Kay, don’t speed,” you mutter, closing your eyes as you lay back down onto the floor.

You hear Jake chuckle. “Did you forget who you’re talkin’ to?”

You sigh softly, too tired to actually laugh. “Jake,” you say. “I feel like I’m on a carousel in the middle of the ocean.”

“Hang in there, shorty,” he says. “Where’s your boyfriend, anyway?”

“No idea. Last time I saw him was when he lost at beer pong. Such a sore loser.”

“Classy,” Jake remarks. Then, after a few moments of silence, he says. “Keep talkin’, darlin’, I’m almost there.”

“I’m just going to take a little nap,” you say sleepily.

“I’d rather you keep talkin’, so I know you’re okay.”

“I’m okay,” you reply. “What do you want me to talk about?”

“What’s your favorite color?” he asks.

“You know what my favorite color is,” you say with amusement.

Jake chuckles. “Fine. Tell me about your plans for the weekend.”

“A nice, quiet funeral,” you say, willing the ceiling to stop rotating above you. “You’re invited.”

Jake snorts. “You any good at poker?”

“I’m not playing strip poker with my brother, Jake.”

“We can keep it PG for you, kiddo. Besides, Bradley might be too busy for us, anyhow.”

“Aww, did he get a date with the barmaid?”

“He got a date with the barmaid.” You can hear the smile in Jake's voice.

“But he’ll miss my funeral.”

Jake laughs. “Sorry to burst your bubble, cupcake, but I’m here. So, we’ll have to postpone that funeral, if you don't mind.”

The knowledge that he’s close by is a such relief that you let the phone slip out from your hand. In less than a minute, he’s knocking on the bathroom door.

“Y/N?” he says cautiously.

“Yeah,” you respond, rising unsteadily to your feet and unlocking it for him.

He bursts in and you stagger backward, so he grabs your hand and pulls you forward, and you sway right into his arms. Jake holds you tightly as you try to regain your footing. He lowers his face to get a good look at you. “Having a good night?” he asks with a cheeky grin.

You strike his chest with your palm half-heartedly. “Don’t be mean,” you murmur, resting your head on his solid pecs.

He smells fresh and warm and you detect a trace of cologne still infused into the cotton of his shirt; smooth and velvety with a hint of citrus and a hefty dose of ‘I’m about to rip your clothes off’ sandalwood.

“I think I’m going to vomit,” you say, bringing a hand over your mouth.

“It’ll probably make you feel better,” he says, gesturing to the toilet in the corner of the bathroom.

You shake your head, refusing to throw up in Jake Seresin’s presence. “Let’s just get out of here,” you whimper.

Jake leads you carefully through the house, making sure you aren’t bumping into any people or walls. Your boyfriend, of course, is nowhere to be found. Jake brings you outside and steers you toward his car. Without letting go of you, he opens the passenger door and helps you into the seat slowly. You drop your head back and close your eyes as he brings the seatbelt over your chest and buckles you in.

“Thank you,” you whisper.

“Wow, you smell like a distillery,” he notes with a laugh.

You smile and open your eyes. “I thought you were going to be mad.”

He furrows his eyebrows. “Why would I be mad?” he asks, still leaning into the passenger side of the car.

You shrug. “Because I’m irresponsible,” you try to say, however the words come out very slurred.

Jake chuckles. “You’re probably the most responsible person I know,” he says. He reaches up to tuck back a strand of your hair, his fingers drifting down the side of your face and lingering for a moment at your cheek. “You deserve a night off.”

You stare into his eyes, all the feelings you’ve been trying to suppress bubbling up in your gut, together with your nausea. What’s worse, your head is spinning even harder, if that’s possible. If only Jake knew how much you longed for him. If only he know how much you wanted him to kiss you.

“Cheer up, buttercup,” he says with a wink, pinching your chin affectionately. “You’re going to feel so much worse tomorrow. In fact, we should probably save your introduction to heavy metal until after your hangover.”

Read Part 6

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cruecifymesixx · 5 years ago

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Love and Leather /part fifty seven/

Word Count: 5.5k

A/N: Just a filler, and imo its boring :/ feedback is always appreciated! I’m gonna pair ‘Wish You Were Here’ from the playlist for this one! moodboard credit goes to: @itsclaranotcarla

Warnings: language

Taglist: @brideofdraculana , @xstarryeyes , @aryssav , @miserablecunt , @dangerous-like-a-loaded-pistol , @fandomshit6000, @anntheboneless @venus-calum, @justjodeye, @supernaturalvikingwhore, @are-we-real, @hi-my-name-is-riley, @extremesadnerding, @thatbandchick39, @awkwrdcait, @countrygirlswonderland, @natsuyaxo @awesomealmostdopestudent @romanticvengeance , @tashy-bear, @krazykatkay456, @terror-triplet, @shouttatthedevill @beachystars, @rodriguez025, @kickstart-myheart-sixx, @s-outhie, @anxious-diabetic, @awkwardblackgirls, @rockersbox, @brooklyn-antiques, @shamelessobsessions, @jerseytaint, @lilytalebi, @criminalyetminimal, @motley-queen, @trapt-in-a-dream, @lunamadhatter99, @broke-n-bitchy @thanks2pete, @slowandangry, @lovesick-heart0, @keepcalm-and-beyou, @miriampraez, @teenwolflover28, @lilyhw1, @swoopygorl, @motherloovebone, @random-internet-user-4471, @falcon-arrows, @talranocchia2001, @wheresmyvodkabitch, @waywardprincess666, @malibubarbievince, @iluvmesomemarvelndc, @zoenicoles @vamprlestat, @supersoldierballerina, @primal-screamer@electradestiny, @marshbev, @n0-sh0rtage-0f-faults, @cruebaby, @ggorehorror, @valentines-in-london, @miss2001babe, @nassauartistm @emmaelizabeth2014, @cmft-jr-winchester, @bokkie92, @notworthyofyou1120 @xrosegoldwolfx, @cranberribread, @lauravic, @mgkobsessed, @chaoticvybe @kellysimagines @thoughtsoftheantagonist @marvelismylifffe, @meetthesixxter. @xpoisonousrosesx, @sleepyjunhong @lovemythsworld @sparxx27 @gingerspicetalks, @unknownoblivion, @love-struck-aries, @lavendersoundbarrier, @oskea93, @idumpyourgrass, @minxtruck, @i-want-to-shoot-myself, @xsixxx, @fentitrbl, @cruesixxlover1991, @kaitieskidmore1, @arianareirg,

-May 14th, 1994-

*Nikki’s POV*

I stepped into the tattoo shop on the strip, Greg, my tattoo artist immediately coming out from the back, “Hey man, you ready?” He questioned as he lead me through the shop and over to his area. I loved the smell of the sterile environment, the lights gave me a headache sometimes but it was tolerable. Some other dude was getting his leg worked on by another artist as he gave me a nod of acknowledgment. I pulled off my shirt and sat down in the leather chair.

We were gonna start filling in the octopus on my other shoulder that would lead down my arm alongside the Motley tattoo, flowers and the little Cupid figure I already had. It was also going to cascade down my chest as well.

I let my mind drift off as the buzzing from the machine started. The band was on a little hiatus at the moment. Music was still being produced, but just not at the speed I would like for us to be at. I guess everyone’s just tired or something. Vince has been using his free time with Sharise and Skylar and when he’s not with them he’s driving race cars. It’s a new interest of his clearly, I haven’t been to the track with him yet but I know Tommy has.

Mick has been off doing his own thing with Emi, they got married a few months ago so he’s off in la la land with her. I think she’s a total airhead but whatever. He’s happy so I’m happy for him.

Tommy is currently going through a separation with Heather but his ass isn’t even here to deal with it because he keeps jetting off to New York for some bitch he met. I remember when he told me, he said he was in love. Which honestly, isn’t the first time those words has came out of his mouth. It’s annoying though, he just takes off and doesn’t tell anyone where he’s going or how long he’s going to be away for. Whoever this chick is, she has him wrapped around her god damn finger and I hope Tommy knows what the hell he’s doing.

“You still got that?” I opened my eyes to look over at Greg as he wiped away the excess ink.

“Still got what?” I questioned as he chuckled, “That.” He pointed down to Vanity’s name.

“Yeah, so what?” I became defensive and pulled away from him before he brought the needle back down on my skin.

“What does your wife think of it?” He grinned as I rolled my eyes.

“She hates it and wants it covered up.” I admitted as I looked down at the cursive, rolling my eyes at the arguments Brandi and I had have over it.

“Shit, I would too if my lady had an old boyfriends name tattooed on her. I can cover it up if you want?” Greg suggested as he continued coloring in my shoulder.

I was quiet for a moment, “How would you cover it?”

He glanced at me, “Well, I could either black it out or we could put some roses over it or something like that. At least you’ve learned your lesson on tattooing someone’s name on you.” He laughed a bit as i shook my head.

“I don’t regret it, not one bit.” I expressed as he nodded.

“Where’s she at anyways? She skipped town on you?” Greg questioned as I nodded.

“I don’t know, and I don’t really care. Can we stop talking about her?” I demanded as he nodded.

“Say no more, Sixx.” He finally shut up and continued working on my shoulder as I sat there staring blankly at the tattoo flash art in front of me on the wall.

“So, how is Brandi? Did that little tattoo on her ankle heal okay?” Greg asked me as I smiled.

“Yeah man, she’s great. Thanks for doing that for me..but she’s good, we’re good. She’s at some photoshoot right now working.”

He nodded, “...Saw her playboy issue last month, you’re a lucky dog.” I chuckled at his words with a proud smirk on my face.

“Yeah, maybe I am. She’s hot ain’t she? Always got some swimsuit photoshoot poster on my mirror at a gig. Sometimes she’s naked, sometimes she’s not.”

Greg laughed, “Lucky bastard.” He shook his head before we continued tattooing.

After a few hours of a needle being driven in and out of my skin, we were finished. I stood in front of the mirror, checking it out, “Man, this looks so fucking sick. Thank you. I fucking love it.” I praised him as he continued to wipe it down. My eyes drifted down to my rib cage.

“So roses?” I asked him, pointing at her name as he nodded, “Yeah, I’ll free hand it. Draw one here, here and here. Maybe color it with some deep reds and purples. It will be like it was never there.”

“Let’s do it man.” I looked at him as he patted the seat again. I sat down and rested, feeling him take a marker as he started drawing on my skin.

It was time to get it covered up. To close the book on the Nikki and Vanity story. The trial and tribulations of two fucked up people trying to be together when they clearly don’t mash well with one another.

“Okay? How does it look, Nikki?” Greg asked, holding up a hand held mirror as he showed me. I nodded, “Looks good man. Let’s do it.”

*Flashback, Nikki’s POV*

I laid in bed with Vanity, hearing her soft breathing as her face nuzzled into my chest and her lips ever so softly pressing light kisses to my skin. I sighed in our embrace as I pulled her closer to me, that alone being impossible. Our legs were entangled together as we were wrapped around the burgundy sheets of our bed.

Her arm was slung around my waist, holding me tight, “I love you.” She mumbled to me as I kissed the top of her head, running my finger tips up and down her back.

Her fingernail traced her name on my skin as i squirmed under her touch, “Stop, that tickles.” I laughed a bit as she lightly pinched me instead.

“I didn’t think I’d actually like this, but I do. It’s like I own you now.” She chuckled, looking up at me as she propped her head up by her elbow.

“Own me? Kinda like how my band owns your ass?” I retorted raising an eyebrow as she rolled her eyes at me.

“That wasn’t my choice, and quite frankly I was taken advantage of while I was under the influence.” She pointed out, combing fingers through her messy bed hair.

I laughed a bit, reaching up to give her a kiss on the lips. “Taken advantage of? If I remember correctly, you laid there and took it like a champ. Which I mean, is usually what you do- Ow!” I let out a loud laugh when she punched me in the gut.

“So mean in the morning.” I mumbled, wrapping her up in my arms as I rested my head on her shoulder.

“We can always get it covered up if you want.” I suggested as she looked at me like I was crazy.

“What? No! I absolutely love my tattoo! I’m never getting it covered up! I’ll be an old lady in the nursing home flaunting it and telling all the other old ladies how much I partied with the worlds baddest rock band back in my hay days.” She explained with a laugh as she kissed my lips.

“And rolled around the bed with the lead singer, or wait was it the bassist- Ow! Nikki!” She groaned as I swatted her tattooed ass cheek.

“And I’ll tell all those old ladies how I got this groupies name tattooed on me.” I smirked as she rolled her eyes.

“Haha, so very funny.” She muttered before giving me another kiss, “As long as I’m your favorite groupie ever, that’s all that matters to me.” She whispered against my lips as they tugged into a smile.

“Shit, I don’t know baby. How am I gonna tell the other groupies that they aren’t my favorite?” I questioned as she swung her leg over my hips and straddled my waist.

“You’re gonna pull up your shirt, point at my name and tell them to come talk to me.”

*End Flashback*

I watched as Greg started bringing the the tattoo needle closer to my skin, “No! Wait! Wait!” I shoved his hand away as he stared at me.

“I don’t-I don’t want it.” I said, wiping off the purple drawing of roses from my skin, “I don’t, no I’m not getting rid of it. Not yet.” I panicked as I grabbed my shirt.

“Okay man, just relax. You don’t have to. Do it when you’re ready.” Greg smiled at me as I nodded, trying to catch my breath.

“I...does it make me a bad husband?” I mumbled, looking up at him as I put my shirt back on.

He didn’t answer me, instead he started cleaning up his station, “It doesn’t matter what I think Nikki. It matters to Brandi. I’m sure it hurts her feelings every time she sees it.”

I rolled my eyes as I put my sunglasses back on, grabbing my jacket and put it on too as I handed over some cash for him, “Till next time, man.” He nodded as I walked out the shop.

I shook my head, stuffing my hands into my pockets as I moved to the side of the walkway as someone with birthday balloons walked past me. I walked to my car before getting in and driving back home.

*Vanity’s POV*

“Happy birthday to you!!” We finished singing to Arianna as she smiled at the camera, “Blow out your candles, princess!” I cheered and she attempted to do so until I had to help her. I didn’t want to eat a toddlers spit riddled cake.

“Good job, baby!” I kissed the top of her head as Clementine snapped a few pictures.

“I want cake! And presents!” She shouted, giggling as I started cutting a piece off for her, handing it to her as she started eating it.

It was just me and Clementine celebrating her birthday. Mom had sent gifts from my siblings and herself. My grandparents had sent their separate gift which included paperwork for a future bank account when she’s way, way older. Tommy left gifts before leaving a few days prior to go back to California. But it was okay, by the smile on her face and high pitched laughter ringing through the house, her heart was full and that’s all that mattered to me.

I opened my mouth when she attempted to feed me a piece of her vanilla frosted rainbow cake, only to smear it all over my face, “Thanks Arianna, that is exactly what I needed.”

I glared at the camera when I heard the click, “Oh, that’s gonna be a good one.” Clementine smiles, “Good job Ari.” She reached out for a high five.

I wiped my face quickly before sitting down at the table and having Arianna crawl into my lap right after. She turned three today, even though it feels like she was just born yesterday. Now she’s walking everywhere and talking in broken up phrases. Shes Constantly telling me what color car passed us while we’re driving to the park. I signed her up for preschool which she will start later in the fall. Mom suggested it to me, that since she is getting a bit older and a hell of a lot smarter. Plus, it would give me a few hours of the day by myself.

I also wouldn’t have to worry too much about leaving Arianna with people I don’t know because Clementine works as a teachers assistant at the school she’ll be going to. So, I pulled some strings, signed a check and she was placed into the Butterfly class with Clementine.

“Mommy, open presents?” Arianna tilted her head to look up at me, her cheeks and nose completely covered in icing. I wiped her face as fast as I could before she started complaining and wiggling off my lap. She ran over to her mountain of presents as she pointed at all of them.

“I think she’s in overload, way worse then Christmas morning.” Clem pointed out as I agreed with her, smiling as Arianna started ripping open packages of pink and purple metallic foil with yellow bows.

“Well, what can I say? She’s spoiled.” Arianna ran up to me putting a Barbie in my lap, “Wow, Malibu beach Barbie? How cool!” She took the new toy away from me and ran back to all her presents.

“Just think, after going to preschool her next birthday party will include a whole bunch of screaming, drunk on sugary treats children running around your house.” Clementine giggled as I shook my head.

“Hell no, her parties will be outside from then on out. I love my kid, but I don’t want someone else’s kid touching my stuff with their dirty little sticky hands.”

We watched as Arianna tore through all of her presents, throwing the clothes to the side as her only focus was on the toys everyone had sent to her, “What did Uncle Tommy give you now?” I asked Arianna as she trotted up to me holding a stuffed bear. She handed it over as I looked at it. It was your simple fuzzy teddy bear, however it was wearing fake spiked cuffs around the wrist and a black shirt that read ‘Mötley Crüe’ and the bear even had tiny fake sunglasses on it.

I handed it back to her, smiling “We’ll have to call Tommy and say thank you, right Ari?” She nodded as she held the bear close to her chest.

“That’s sweet of him.” Clementine said, adding a swooning sigh as I rolled my eyes.

“Oh please, don’t act like that when you’ve been turning him down every chance you get, Clementine.” I barked back as she chuckled.

“Keeps things just a tad bit interesting, don’t you think? Plus, I haven’t turned him down. I have at least hanged out with him once every time he comes to visit.” She explained with a snarky laugh as I smiled back at her.

“Watch out Clem, he might get bored.” I chuckled as she gave me a frown.

“You really think he’d do that?” I glanced over at her, leaning back in my chair as I kicked my feet up on the table.

“God no, Tommy’s in it deep with you. He won’t stop till he has you. It’s only going to get worse from here on out. The flowers, the gifts, the cute little comments he makes that you say you hate so much.” I pointed out as I saw her cheeks turn a rosy pink.

“Plus, I think you kinda dig him too.” I shrugged, licking the frosting off my spoon as I wiggled my eyebrows.

“He’s sweet and everything, but I don’t know. He’s...you know...he’s-“

“A rockstar? He’s what?” I questioned, curious to what her answer would be as I glanced over at her.

“Well yeah, he’s Tommy Lee. He gets chicks all the time why would he want me?” She shrugged as I laughed at her words.

“Cause Clem, you’re fucking hot if you choose to see it or not. And Tommy is a man who loves to love women and you just happen to be in his eyesight right now.” I explained as she shook her head.

She sighed and looked at me, “Vanity, I know he’s going through a divorce. What if I’m just something to keep him busy? How do you know he isn’t just keeping me around cause he’s lonely?”

“He would’ve already taken you to bed if you were just something to keep him occupied.”

“And how could you possibly know that Vanity, what if-what if.” Clementine continued to express her worries.

I rolled my eyes, “You’re looking way to deep. I know Tommy pretty well and I’m positive he’s trying to take his time for like once in his life.”

She let out a huff as she picked up her paintbrush and started painting again, “I hope you’re right Vanity.”

I smiled, “I’m always right Clementine.”

*Fall of 1994, Vanity’s POV*

“Mommy! School time!”

I shot up to a sitting position, half asleep as i stared at Arianna who was at the foot of of my bed smiling at me. Her morning hair reminded me of Nikki’s.

I groaned, laying back down, “But I don’t want to go to school, princess.” I heard giggling as she crawled up onto my bed and sat at my side. I turned to look at her.

“No! Not for you! For me!” She said, grabbing ahold of my hand and trying to pull me up as she started jumping on the bed.

“It’s my first day of school, mommy!” She shouted with glee as I pretended to go back to sleep, “Mom! Wake up!” Her little tiny hands tried pushing me off the bed as I started laughing.

“Okay, alright. Let’s get up.” I rubbed my eyes, glancing to the alarm clock and seeing it was only six thirty in the morning. I was caught off guard when Arianna climbed onto my back and tightly wrapped her arms and legs around me.

“I had a dream about unicorns and, and they had wings made out of cotton candy.” She explained as I walked to the bathroom, her clinging to me like a monkey.

“Well that sounds super cool.” I chuckled, pulling her off me and setting her down on the floor. I brushed out her hair with minimal complaints and whining. She wanted it up in a ponytail with a neon green bow so I obliged.

She followed me to the kitchen, climbing up onto the dining table chairs as I quickly fixed up a bowl of Frosted Flakes and a sliced banana for breakfast before I started packing a lunch for her and making sure she had her backpack ready.

“I need to go potty!” She announced before running down the hallway. It was time for coffee.

After Arianna finished her breakfast, we went back to the bathroom so she could brush her teeth and finish getting ready. She lead me to her room and went to her closet to pick out clothes as I made her bed.

Arianna picked out jeans, light up shoes and a matching shirt to go with her bow, “You get dressed and go watch some cartoons, mom has to get ready.”

I went to my bedroom, opened up the curtains and straightened up my bed before getting dressed. I tugged on a pair of leggings and pulled a red hoodie on before slipping on a pair of flip flops. I quickly washed my face, brushed my teeth and threw my hair up into a messy bun.

I glanced out my door when I heard loud rock music playing, “Ari! That doesn’t sound like morning cartoons!” I took one last look at the mirror before leaving and going to the living room.

Nirvana’s ‘All Apologies’ was playing as Arianna was slowly head banging to the music. I sat down next to her, “You like this?” I questioned as she nodded.

“Yes! It’s cool!” She chimed as I nodded in agreement, “I guess you’re right.”

I closed my eyes as she kept babbling about something until I heard Vince fucking Neil’s voice on the TV. I opened my eyes to see their music video for ‘Anarchy in the UK’. I sighed deeply when Nikki appeared on the screen before glancing down at Arianna who was amazed by the music. At least she has somewhat of good taste for a toddler. Way better then cheery nursery rhymes on repeat all day.

“Mommy he broke his guitar!” She pointed, “Uncle Tommy?!” And there it was, she made the connection and now it’s time for the question game.

“Mommy! Uncle Tommy is on the TV! Why’s uncle Tommy on the TV? Why do they have long hair? Why do they sound mean? When’s uncle Tommy coming back? Is he going to bring me a toy? Are those uncle Tommy’s friends?”

I smiled down at her, “That’s uncle Tommy’s band. He’s a rockstar and he makes music with those other guys. They have long hair cause they like it And they don’t sound mean, baby. That’s just the type of music it is. It’s rock n roll. And I’m not to sure when he’s coming back, but he’ll let you know don’t worry.”

She giggled, “But only girls can have long hair.”

I shook my head, “No, boys can have long hair too, it’s not just a girl thing.” I corrected her as she nodded.

“Oh, okay! Can we go to school yet?” She questioned as I glanced over to the clock, it was about a quarter after seven.

“Yeah, let’s get a jacket on and we can go.”

After a small traffic jam and me almost loosing my shit with Arianna laughing at the situation in the back seat, we arrived at her preschool. I helped her out of the car as she quickly grabbed my hand as we started walking up the stairs. We walked down a hallway with doors and art work littered across the walls, some teachers gave us a smile while other moms dropping off their kids gave me glares.

I saw Clementine standing at the door greeting other kids as she saw us, “Auntie!” Arianna yelled, letting go of my hand and running to her.

“Hi pumpkin.” She said, picking her up and giving her a hug, “Morning sunshine.” Clem spoke to me as I sent her a glare. I’m just not a morning person.

I knelt down next to Ari, “You know, you can’t call auntie that here. You have to call her Miss Clementine while you’re at school..” I told Arianna as she nodded, “Okay.”

“...cause all the bitchy moms will complain about it.” I whispered to Clem as she giggled.

I walked into the class with them, seeing other kids playing with building blocks and some coloring with the teacher, Miss Jackie. Arianna handed me her jacket, backpack and lunchbox as I gave it to Clem and she immediately went over to a group of kids and started playing with them.

“She’s gonna be fine.” Clementine told me as I nodded quickly.

I was trying to keep the water works from coming, “Van, look at me.” She nudged my arm as I chewed on my bottom lip, staring at her.

“She’s going to be okay here, alright? She’ll be more then ready for kindergarten next year. It’s good for the both of you.”

I rubbed my eyes, “I know, I know.” I smiled when Arianna came over to me. I bent down and fixed her shirt.

“You be good okay? I’ll be back in a few hours and be nice to the other kids. And please share the toys.”

“You can go mommy.” She gave me a kiss and then ran back to her little friends.

“Mommy, you can go now.” Clementine snickered as I rolled my eyes.

I gave Clementine a quick hug before glancing at Arianna one more time before leaving the classroom. Is this how every first day of school is going to be like? My daughter telling me to go away while I am trying not to freak out? But school is good, and Arianna needs to grow mentally and socially.

I sighed as I walked out the door of the school and headed back to my car, “You know this is the unloading zone, right?” I turned around to see a platinum blonde haired woman.

“It’s unloading for a reason, not put it in park and take your child inside.” She continued to bitch at me as I stared at her.

“Lady, I didn’t know. It’s my daughters first day here so back off. There’s no sign saying it’s the unloading zone.” I retorted quickly as she stared at me, pushing her knock off Gucci sunglasses to the top of her head.

“There doesn’t need to be a sign, everyone knows it’s the unloading zone. What’s your name? I’ve never seen you before.” She questioned as I leaned against my car and stared at her.

“Vanity, what’s yours?” My voice oozed annoyance and I hoped it would give her the idea to back off, but she didn’t.

“Ginger Thomas, I run the PTA here.” She stuck out her hand, her nails were done cheaply too. I shook her hand and forced a smile.

“Cool, look I gotta-“ “Were having our annual back to school bake sale next week. We encourage all parents to join.”

I went from snorting rails of cocaine and banging rockstars to fucking being apart of the PTA? No thanks.

“Uh, yeah. Sorry. Me and Arianna have a lot going on next week.” I explained, when in reality there was nothing I just didn’t want to deal with the other moms.

“A child appreciates when the parents are involved, all studies show that.” She told me as I nodded.

“Yeah, Uh…I’ll make cookies for her on my own time. Thanks for the invite.” I smiled at Ginger before stepping into my car and driving away as quick as I could in a school zone.

I decided while Arianna was in school I was gonna stop by a few places and apply for a jab. I knew I would be bored with Arianna being at school for a portion of the day, so a part time job would be fun. I noticed a sign say Daisy’s Gentleman Bar and Grill off the side of a building. I parked my car and headed inside.

I walked through a small corridor before seeing a whole bunch of booths and tables surrounding a stage area that was covered by a red curtain. Not a whole lot of people were in here. Just a group of guys off in the corner smoking and laughing. I looked over at the bar, seeing no one behind it as I pulled out a barstool and sat down.

“Can I help you?” I turned around to see an older red headed woman wearing blue jeans, cowboy boots topped with a blue and red plaid shirt. It made me miss Texas for just a split second.

I stood up and stuck my hand out, “My names Vanity Blackwood and I was wondering if you were hiring for like a waitress or something like that.”

“Daisy Jackson.” She shook my hand before sitting down text to me, “A waitress? With a beautiful face like that you belong on stage.” I furrowed my eyebrows before the gentleman’s bar clicked in my head. I looked back over at the stage and put one and one together. It was a strip club.

“Oh, I don’t- no, I’m not a dancer or a stripper.” I chuckled as she nodded.

“Well no one is born a stripper, sugar. Do you have experience bar tending?” She questioned, but I shook my head.

“I have experience drinking, but not bar tending. I have a lot of experience as a waitress though. My last job, I practically ran the place when my boss wasn’t around.” I explained as she nodded and grabbed two waters for us.

“May I see your resume?” Daisy questioned as I stared at her.

I scratched the top of my head, “Um…I don’t have a resume. I’ve um, only had one job.”

She looked at me like I was strange, “You’re out job hunting and you don’t have a resume?” She let out a laugh, “Wow.”

I frowned, but she spoke up, “Tell me about yourself, Vanity.”

I nodded, “I um…I’m from Dallas but I lived in California for a while before I moved here. I have a three and half year old daughter. I was the head waitress and hostess at a diner in Los Angeles and all my customers always loved me. I’m rather nice and funny as I get along with pretty much anybody I meet. I really like shopping too..” I added a nervous chuckle because by the look on her face I couldn’t tell if she took me serious or not.

“What are your worse qualities?” Daisy questioned me.

“Um, my mouth gets me in trouble sometimes-“ Daisy let out a laugh, “Me too, sweetie.”

“And sometimes I loose my cool but I’m usually level headed. I’m really blunt and some people don’t like that as well.” I added on as she just nodded.

“So you could handle handsy drunks?”

I nodded, “Oh definitely. I have a lot of experience with that.” I blurted out as she tilted her head to the side in a confused manner.

“Uh…I mean…I use to party a lot so I know how people can get when they are extremely intoxicated.” I quickly added on as she nodded.

“Well, you have a cute little face and a interesting personality and I’m sure you’re trainable. Can you start tonight?”

My eyes widened, “Tonight? I would prefer hours during the day…” I trailed off as she smirked.

“If you can’t tell, we aren’t busy in the day. I don’t need another girl in the day time, only at night. Those are our busiest and best hours. You’ll be walking away with a lot of tips. The hours are from eleven to four in the morning when the bar closes.”

I thought about it for a moment. I’m sure I could find a babysitter for Arianna or I’m sure Clementine would be more then willing to stay the night.

“It’s only three days a week, so it’s not much. But you’ll make up for it in tips.” She continued as I shrugged.

“I don’t care about the money, but yeah. I guess I could start tonight.”

“Good, wear something sexy and I’ll see you at-“

“Hey Daisy! Where did you want these boxes again?” I looked over seeing a buzzed cut blonde haired dude holding a few boxes. I took a second glance when I saw his neck tattoo.

“Oh, sorry. Didn’t know you were talking to someone.” He smiled at me, eyes drifting down my body and then back to me, “Have we met?”

“Jason, this is Vanity. She’s gonna start working here tonight as a bartender. You can put those on the back counter for me. Vanity, this is Jason. He’s a bouncer here.”

I nodded, his eyes narrowing at me “You look so familiar.” He chuckled as he left the boxes where she had asked, “Hey, Paul is asking for you.” He told Daisy as she rolled her eyes.

“Never work with your husband. I’ll see you tonight Vanity.” She patted my shoulder and went to the back.

I turned my attention to Jason as he was already looking at me, “You don’t remember me do you?” I asked with a bit of a laugh in my voice.

He sat down next to me, smiling “As much as I love to remember pretty chicks, I’m afraid I don’t remember…”

I shook my head, “It’s okay. Um, we met at a club a while ago you Uh…you gave me blow.” I whispered that part to him as the wheels in his head started turning.

“Oh! At Ivys! That’s right, that blue haired chick and that guy who I swear was Tommy Lee barged in. You never called me.” He pretended to pout as I chuckled.

“Yeah, he gets that a lot.” I smirked, “Yeah sorry about that. That blue haired chick kinda threw a fit over me doing blow.”

He nodded, “Well, you’re here now. I’m looking forward to seeing you from now on.” Jason rested just hand on my lower back as I smiled at him.

“I’ll see you tonight.”

*Later that evening*

“A…strip club? Vanity, can’t you get a normal job?” Clementine questioned me as we sat at my dining table while she painted and Arianna watched cartoons.

“I’m just gonna be a bartender! Not a stripper it’s totally fine.” I retorted as she sighed.

“What are the hours? During school hours?” She questioned as I smiled and took a sip of my water.

“Well, thats what I wanted to talk to you about. It’s only eleven to four in the morning for three nights…so I was wondering if you would consider staying on those nights. I’d pay you of course.”

She looked up from her sketchbook, “Vanity, really? You took an overnight job? What am I suppose to do on those mornings when I have to be at the school?” She asked as I shrugged.

“I mean obviously you can sleep too. She sleeps during the night so I’m not worried about that. She’ll be good for you, you know that! And I’ll tell her I’m just going to work and I’ll be back before she wakes up.” I clarified as she sighed.

“Tonight?” She groans as I nodded, “Okay, okay fine I’ll be her babysitter.” I squealed and gave her a huge hug.

“I swear, you better not turn into like an alcoholic being a bartender or whatever.”

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