#my mum nearly hit him but she was a bit too tipsy

[little-doggy-girl-kisser]

got my hair cut cause a man flirted with me at work (for the first time ever) had to make sure it never happened again so cut it super short, messy and dyke-y

IMMEDIATLEY AFTERWARDS a man kisses my hand NOT ONCE but TWICE he was 50 and knew MY NAME WHEN I'D NEVER SEEN HIM EVER

[milkiane]

slowburn

pairings: colin zabel x reader

warnings: mentions of food, mentions of alcohol consumption (wine), implication of introversion

word count: 1529

author’s note: thank you, @tatesimper and @evanmybeloved for helping me, ily. requested. idk if this was what you wanted but i hope you enjoy it nonetheless <3

different, you thought, preposterous.

a new version of yourself arising from the carapace of who you used to be.

it was odd, looking at your orthodox self on the mucky reflection of the living room’s mirror. a striving endeavor to get out of your comfort zone.

“you cleaned up rather nicely tonight, what’s the occasion?” your mother asked, a bag of chips in hand in preparation for her usual movie reruns.

you stared back at her through the mirror, “uh, yeah. i’ve got a date with a friend of mine, he’s coming to pick me up in a few,”

she had a teasing grin on her face, “ooh, who’s the lucky man, then?”

a soft rap on the door interrupted the conversation you were having. you and your mum exchanged looks before the both of you scurried towards the door, attempting to get there before the other does.

once you had a hand on the knob, you sent her a warning look before opening the door.

and behold came the fine view of colin in casual clothes, much different from his professional attire as a detective, and whilst you were too busy ogling at each other, your mother, who was rather being too nosy for your liking, is trying to get a look at the man.

“i- wow,” colin breathed out, “you look lovely.”

“she does, doesn’t she?” your mother finally peeked through your shoulder and looked at colin from up to down in approval, “oh! what a handsome young man,”

your face flushed in diffidence, as did he but you were too busy shooting your mom a look to even notice. clearing your throat, you gave colin a sheepish smile, “are we ready to go?”

“oh, yeah!” he grinned, offering a hand of his to hold, “shall we?”

your mother giggled, making you scrunch your nose up. you took his hand and stepped out, before you could even close the door shut, colin looked back once more and waved to her, “it was nice meeting you, mrs. l/n!”

colin brought you to a nice park just by the eastside, surprising you by grabbing a picnic basket and a typical red and white patterned blanket.

“i’ve got just the perfect spot for us,” colin murmured, “just around here somewhere.”

you smiled, basking in the golden hour of the afternoon, auric hues enchanting your face in striking ways possible, walking side by side with colin as you clutched the blanket against your chest.

children were running around the grassy field, not a care in the world as they continued to go wherever their legs take them. friends and family scattered around, each one of them stuck in their own worlds.

colin took the opportunity to admire you, the casts of the sun had you glowing more than ever, having you locked in a state of celestiality. an angel amongst the crowds of delinquents and liars — if colin had ever seen one.

feeling the weight of his stare, you glanced back at the man. he looked away immediately, feeling the heat rise to his cheeks in embarrassment from getting caught.

you bit your lip to prevent the smile from growing wider, but colin caught it and let his own smile adore his lips. he beamed up as he finally found the spot, “there it is, c’mon!”

colin led you towards the huge sycamore tree that provided the right shade from the sun, but still a perfect view to watch it set from the burnished and tranquil collisions of a burst of red and yellow in the night’s calm.

setting down the blanket, you helped him unpack the remains of the basket. a bottle of wine, sandwiches, pastries, strawberries dipped in chocolate and other varieties of picnic-friendly food.

once everything was ready, you poured some wine for the both of you.

colin watched you with a small smile, your eyebrows furrowed and tongue poked out in concentration as he felt his adoration for you grow immensely.

you handed him a glass and furrowed your brows, “what?”

he shook his head and took a sip, “nothing, you just look gorgeous,”

letting out a small laugh, you turned to look at him, taking a moment to admire his features. there was a tiny scar on his right eyebrow, an aspect that proves that even the most perfect of people could have specks of imperfections, “you’re a sight for sore eyes yourself, colin,”

half a basket empty and a tipsy little detective later, the both of you were now sprawled across the blanket. eyes focused on the fluffy clouds that were fluttering across the blue sky.

you had tons of theories on how this date could possibly go, but cloud watching with a man who got tipsy from a couple glasses of wine hasn’t ever crossed your mind.

“look, colin, that looks like a heart,” you pointed out, your heads nearly bumping into each other.

“oh, yeah,” he grinned, his eyes turning to the next bundle of clouds. one particular flocculent cloud caught his attention, his eyes beaming up in fascination, “hey, look! that one looks like you.”

“where?” you asked, tilting your head as you tried to find where his eyes were trained.

with a little bit of liquid courage left, colin grabbed your hand and pointed it out. for a second, you completely forgot about the cloud he was currently tracing while holding your hand, your attention is entirely directed at him. you felt your cheeks heat up, and you were quite sure it wasn’t from the cold breeze that easttown brought.

his lips were moving, but you couldn’t focus on what he was talking about. there were crinkles at the side of colin’s eyes whenever he smiled or laughed, a freckle on the tip of his nose, and dimples that were worthy of charming anyone.

“did you see the resemblance, y/n?” colin grinned, turning his gaze away from the clouds to see you already looking at him.

you snapped out of your thoughts, chuckling nervously as he caught you staring, “oh- yeah, yeah, i did,”

colin marveled at you, the slow overcast of the sun creating an ambient filter that could give the greek goddesses a run for their money? lightning? magic? colin didn’t know, all he knew is that not a single person or mythical physique could ever be as ethereal as you.

you smiled softly, turning away to look back at the sky, “oh, colin, the sun is setting!”

you and colin sat up, eating the leftover strawberries as you leaned against the tree.

your hands were inches apart, and colin was the first to notice, but not before he smiled at your lighthearted state. he let his head hit the trunk, slowly moving his hand closer, lifting his pinkie a bit on top of yours.

too shy to make a move, he left it there. you looked at your grazing fingers, staring at him momentarily before looking back at the sun, slightly moving your hand to intertwine your pinky with his.

to any beholders, all they would see is a casual couple, getting lost in their own bubble of love.

but for the both of you, it was more of a start of a new beginning, a teenage love experienced by two grown adults. butterflies in your stomach, bashfulness that causes rosy cheeks, and discretion to keep your heart from getting broken.

colin parked his car and rushed out to your side to open your door. the sun was long gone, the shaded colors of reds and yellows now consumed by specks of twinkling stars that coated the dark sky.

he walked you towards the front door and you turned to him with a bashful smile and said, “well, this is me,”

he chuckled, “yeah,”

seemingly not ready to accept that your date is over, the both of you stood there silently.

“i really-”

“today was-”

you both shared a laugh, “you go first,”

“i really had fun today, colin,” you confessed, interlacing your fingers together as you balanced yourself back and forth on the heels of your feet.

“me, too, actually,” he chuckled, running a hand through his hair, “and i’m hoping that we could go out again sometime?”

“of course,” you smiled. the curtains from your living room got drawn open, in came the sight of your mother watching with anticipation.

you groaned in embarrassment, “i-”

he only laughed softly, with your head still turned away from him, colin leaned in a bit to kiss your cheek, “well, i’ll be staying in touch with you for next time,”

but when you turned to look at him, he pecked your lips by mistake.

colin’s eyes widened, stuttering out an apology, but you cut him off by pulling him into a sweet kiss, your hands finding their way on his face and one running through his hair. kissing back almost immediately, colin slowly wrapped his arms around your waist respectfully.

pulling back a bit, he leaned his forehead against your own, both of you unable to open your eyes for a moment.

“finally!” your mom exclaimed, “now this is a slowburn better than the movies!”

“mom!”

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[pixie88]

Rem’s Birthday BBQ

Chapter 5 - Always the Bridesmaid.

A/N: Remy set Laila up on a date, but Laila and Harry aren’t happy about it. How will the birthday celebrations go? Yes, Laila’s embarrassing moment has happened to me haha! I hope you like it.

If you would like to be ADDED or REMOVED just let me know!

Read previous chapters HERE!

Warnings: Fluff, Mild NSFW & Adult Language.

Word Count: 2106

Pairings: Laila x Harry

Enjoy!

"A date?" Laila questions him "Yeah, with one of Alec's mates" Rem seems super excited about this "What friend?" Harry asks, looking over to Alec "Freddie, I didn't think he'd be Laila's type, but Rem seems to think that he is" as soon as Alec tells him its Freddie Harry chuckles "Freddie?! Really?! Good luck Laila!" There is almost a hint of jealously in his voice.

"Come on, Harry he's not that bad!" Alec tries not to laugh through his lie "She'll fall asleep before they have even ordered drinks. He has no chat when it comes to girls" Laila looks over to Rem "So you're setting me up with a bore?" Rem shook his head "No, he is actually really funny! Ignore these two! I just want you to find someone...it's been 8 years since Josh...you need to get over him at some point!"

A sadness still came over Laila each time someone mentions his name "Rem! Look, it's your birthday and I don't want to fall out with you over this, so here is your present I'm going to walk away from this conversation before I say something I regret!" She gets up leaving before anyone can say anything.

"Auntie Laila!!!" Carly collides with her "Come on, we are all on the zip swing" Laila parents had a huge back garden surrounding their house, so her dad built a park for the grand kids. All the kids loved the zip swing they would take turns on having a go and pulling the seat back each time.

Having 3 older brothers Laila had a total of 11 nieces and nephews. Chris had Lilly - 11, Luna - 9 and Carly - 5, Max had the twins Isla and Arya - 10, Nate had Alfie - 5, Issac - 7, Blake - 11 and  Zeppy the oldest at 18.

"Auntie Laila" Alfie zipped past on the swing as he hit the end the swing flies up nearly dropping Alfie off backwards "Wow, be careful Alf!" Laila watches her nephew run back to the start with the swing in tow.

"Where are your parents?" she looked round at the kids "Nanny and Grandad had us stay over last night. We had a camp out in the living room" Carly tells her "Why don't you have a go?" Carly pushes her towards the swing "Yeah, Auntie Laila!" Alf cheers her on "But....!" she hesitates but the kids aren't taking no for an answer.

Laila gets on, gripping the swing for dear life "3...2....1...Go!" they count her down, she zips along the line, then as it hits the end.... the chair flies forward up into the air and Laila's grip loosens, she fell backwards onto the grass the swing above her with no passenger "LAILA!!" she hears a familiar voice shout within seconds she knows whose voice it is as he stands over her "Are you OK?" Harry looks down at her as soon as he asks, she bursts out a laugh "Other than dying of embarrassment? Yeah, I'm OK" he starts to laugh with her as he helps her up off the ground.

"You went down before the seat did!" he laughs, "I didn't expect it to throw me off," she looks over to the kids who are laughing at her, "Should we get you a drink?" he puts his hand on the small of her back leading her to a table.

She sits as Harry grabs them a drink "Laila, are you OK?" Terry looks at her worried "Dad, I'm fine," she laughs, "Still, I better go and tell them to be careful" he leaves her alone at the table walking over to the kids.

Harry hands her a Pimms can "I wasn't sure what you wanted but thought you can't go wrong with Pimms right?" he sits down next to her with a beer in his hand "Actually, I don't like Pimms" she lies, "Oh! I can go and get you something else?" he's about to get up when she giggles and pulls him back down "I'm joking!" She laughs, he narrows his eyes at her with a grin "That was just mean!" he laughs, "Erm...Its looks like you have a date this Friday!" She scrunches up her nose at the question "Argh...I need to find a way to get out of that one!"

"Oh?" he's sips his beer trying to sound neutral "I know Rem means well..." he has to ask. It's now or never right?! "What was he talking about earlier? When he mentioned someone called Josh?" He watches as her walls slowly go up.

She turns to him "No judgment?" He nods just wanting to listen to her "OK, Josh was someone I met in college, we were together for over 4 years. Engaged, but then he got sick...." she takes a deep breath gearing up to say the words "He passed away...." she looks down at her hands in her lap.

He wished he never asked now, he takes her hand.

She looks up at him "It took me a while to date after that and I'm not trying to give you a big head or anything, but you are probably the first person to have made it to a second date," he tries to hide his smirk, but it breaks out "Must be my amazing dates" she shook her "About that... do you do normal dates" she raises a questioning brow at him.

He chuckles "I...to be honest with you, I've never done dates as extravagant as I have with you.." Laila tuts at him finding it hard to believe "Honestly, it's the truth. You have this thing about you that makes me just want to impress you"

She lets out a little laugh, "I love the big wow dates, but I prefer simple ones," he smirks at her "Now she tells me! What if I was to do a movie night and dinner at mine? You would be happy with that?" She pretends to think for a second "It depends on your cooking skills" she winks, he howls "My cooking skills are fantastic actually!" she shoves him "Of course they are!"

"Friday come over and I'll show you!" she knows exactly why he has chosen to do it on that day "Have you forgotten? I have plans," he knows she's baiting him, "We both know you don't want to go on that date and I wasn't lying earlier when I said you'll be asleep before ordering" for a split second she could see a hint of jealousy in his eyes as she decides what to do "I'll let you know" she smirks, teasing him.

Later everyone is a little tipsy now and Nate drags Laila up to dance "Nate, No!" he isn't listening to her "Come on, every family gathering, we always get up and dance!!" all the kids that haven't fallen asleep are up dancing too. Pharrell Williams - Happy is playing everyone that is still at the party is up dancing except Alec and Harry who are watching from the sidelines.

"Grandad, you dance like an old man!" Carly laughs at Terry doing the robot, Remy dances his way over to Laila "I'm waving my white flag!" she shook her head at her oldest friend "Rem! I'm sorry I snapped a bit earlier," she hugs him "Hey, you made up for it as soon as you came flying of the zip swing. That was priceless! But one thing I did notice Harry seem to run to your rescue pretty quick?" Remy gives her a look he always give her when he knows there's more to the story.

She can't keep it a secret from him anymore, she looks round Harry isn't within earshot, but his eyes are glued to her, "If I tell you something you can't tell anyone! I mean not even Alec! Pinky promise?" Rem rolls his eyes "Laila, how old are we again?!" she huffs at him "OK, I pinky promise! Now what is going on?" she checks one more time "Harry and I have been on a couple of dates" Remy's face lights up "W...what!? You and Harry?! When did this start?" Rem has 21 questions for her.

"It started after your stag weekend. He came to the salon for a haircut and it went on from there," she whispers to him, "Do you like him? Have you....you know?" He winks at her, she can't believe he just asked her that "Rem! No! We haven't! I do like him" Rem pull her in for a hug "Lulu! I'm happy you've finally gotten yourself back out there!"

She blushes "Lulu, you haven't called me that in years!" She laughs. "Called her what?" They hear behind her, turning they saw Alec and Harry joining them "Lulu, I used to call Laila it growing up"

"Well, Lulu you won't mind if I stole my Remy for a dance?" Alec spins Remy, she laughs, "No, of course not. I'm happy for you to take him off my hands! His dances moves are awful" she laughs.

Alec and Remy start dancing together with everyone else.

"Lulu huh?" She turns towards him "Oh, no! Don't tell me you're going to start teasing me about it?!" He laughs, "Nah, I might start calling you it myself. Oh, by the way your dad offered to let me stay the night" she looks at him confused "He did?!" Why has he done that? "I told him I couldn't have more than one beer because I was going to drive Alec and Remy home, so he said we could all stay"

"That's my dad for ya! I'm staying the night too" her dad had already told her that she could stay a few days ago "We could be sleeping next door to each other again?" He winks. "Just keep the snore session down, yeah?!" she laughs, "I do not snore!" he protests "OK, if you want to believe that!" She teases him more "You are so irritating, but I like it. I really want to kiss you!" she smirks "Sorry, but you'll have to keep your lips to yourself!" He huffs.

Its after midnight Remy, Alec, Harry and Laila were the last ones to head the bed "Night Lulu and Haribo!" a drunk Remy sways into his old bedroom with Alec. "Which room did your mum say I was in?" Harry whispers trying not to wake everyone "The guest room next to my old ro...." his lips crash to hers, the kiss is electrifying making every nerve ending stand on end.

They stumble into her bedroom onto the bed. His lips trail down her pulse line, his hand glides up her leg, slipping under her playsuit and brushes against her centre "Harry?" he pulls away to look at her. "I want to....its just..." he strokes her face and smiles as he collapses on the bed next to her "It's fine. We can take it slow" she felt relieved he understood. "Not too slow we can't cuddle?" he lets out a soft chuckle "I do like to cuddle" he wraps his arms around her.

"I am sorry! It's been so long since I've been with someone in that way," he kisses her forehead "Don't give it a second thought. I can do slow" he begins to stroke her hair making her eyes drift.

~*~*~*~

"Laila! Are you awake?" she heard her mum call out, followed by a knock on the bedroom door, she looks around the room realising where she is.

With Harry is asleep next to her "Laila?" her mum calls out again.

Shit! She can't have her catch Harry in here! Laila tries to wake him "Harry! Wake up!" he begins to stir, she silences him with a finger to his lips.

When the door handle twists Laila pushes him off the bed and he falls to the floor with a thud "Ouch!"

"Laila, Are you..?" Laila smiles at her mum "Mum?! You alright?" Laila tries not to blush.

"Yep, I just wondered if you wanted breakfast?" Laila nods "Great, what about Harry?" Laila is shocked by her mum's question "What? Harry?" she asks, "Sweetheart, if you're going to get him to hide behind the bed at least make sure his feet aren't sticking out the bottom or did you forget he's nearly 6 foot? Well, I suppose we are all the same size when we're doing the horizontal tango" she winks as turns to leave the room "I'll take his silence as a yes to breakfast" she closes the bedroom door.

Harry pops his head up smiling at a very red Laila....

Continue reading this story here - Chapter 6.

@secretaryunpaid​ @lem-20​ @aussieez​ @khoicesbyk​ @irisofpurple​ @shewillreadyou​ @txemrn​ @pixiezilla6​

[cottonwren]

Can you write me something with Ada and Freddie (or not if you wish) and can you include the following: a phone message, hot chocolate and a single flower.

Hi lovely! I really hope you enjoy this

Pairing: Ada Shelby x Freddie Thorne

Words:1947

——————————————–

“Ada, love, you know he’s going to come back, and you know you’re going to get him straight back without any hesitation. No point in getting worked up when you’ve got other things to focus on.” Polly told Ada as she watched her write - it was Christmas, everyone was staying in Tommy’s for the holiday, and everyone apparently meant everyone except Freddie Thorne.

Ada understood that he had a duty to his party, and really, she did. Ada’s patience wore thin, however, when Freddie got arrested at every other protest that he went on and her own family had to fork out money so that he could be at home with them. She knew that one day that the money would not be enough, and a Campbell lookalike would come along, and he’d be gone for a year. Ada didn’t think about the possibility of death.

Shelbies didn’t do death.

“I’m going to be pissed at him first, Pol.” She told her aunt, watching Charlie and Karl play on the carpet with their soldiers. “Wonderful, this shit. Married life.”

“Don’t worry, he’s going to be stuck in a car with Thomas and Alfie, then I’m going to talk with him.” Polly told her, watching the kids over a glass of whiskey.

“Thanks Pol,” Ada chuckled, shaking her head. “Bloody watchdogs, the lot of you.”

“Pissed!” Karl squealed, happy to have learnt a new word.

“Where the fuck did he learn that?” Tommy asked as he walked in, accompanied only by Alfie. No Freddie in sight. Ada visibly drops, and the anger furthers itself.

“More to the point, Tom, where the fuck is my husband?” Ada asked back, setting her notepad down and standing up. Every second that she went without knowing was a second that she was convinced they’d done it this time. They’d locked her man up.

“Your husband stopped on the way. Should be back in an hour, I reckon.” Alfie grunted from behind Tommy, tapping him on the thigh gently and moving past him to sit down.

“Tommy, a word.” Ada told him - it would have been a request from anyone else, but Tommy knew his sister better than to take it as anything but a command.

Once they were in Tommy’s office, tucked away and out of earshot even if Ada shouted, Ada nearly did just that. She nearly shouted so hard that she passed out, she was so angry, so full of rage, but she didn’t.

Instead, Ada hugged Tommy. Which is how Tommy knew that it must be bad, and Freddie deserved the hiding that he and Alfie had given him in the car.

“I’m so pissed at him.” Were the first words that came out of Ada’s mouth, muffled against his tailored suit.

“He knows.” Tommy hummed, wrapping his arms back around her, remembering the time that she’d bitten a teacher’s finger off and come to him first with a red face and watery eyes.

“I’m more worried than pissed. Makes me more pissed.” Ada admitted, reaching behind him to find a bottle of whiskey and succeeding. She broke from the hug to take a sip, offering him the bottle.

“That’s love. I think. I’m still figuring this shit out myself. Freddie promised me he’d be back here tonight with a decent apology, otherwise not only would I break his kneecaps, but so would Alfie. Alfie was threatening a lot worse but we settled on kneecaps.” Tommy told her honestly, taking a sip. “How are you?”

“I’m alright. Too worried about this to be anything else. Keep thinking I’ll be one of those women who has to take their kid to see their dad in prison.” Ada sighed, sitting up on the desk.

“I won’t let that happen, Ade. You know that.” Tommy told her, clearing up the desk.

“You shouldn’t have to stop it from happening, that’s the point. I’m going to put Karl to bed, it’s late Want me to take Charlie up as well? They should go down easy.” Ada asked, walking towards the door, whiskey still in hand after Tommy handed it back.

“I’ll take them up, I’m Karl’s favourite anyway.” Tommy told her, unusually pleasant. It unsettled Ada - she had only seen this side of him in youth and dire situations. They were not young anymore, nor were they in a dire situation. Were they?

Ada nodded, thanking him and walking into the living room. She was greeted by Finn cross legged on her seat, reading what she’d written. If it was anyone else she’d be a little annoyed, but Finn? She was proud that he wanted to read - that he could read.

“Ada, this is really good. Is it for a publication?” Finn asked as she said goodnight to her son and her nephew, sending them up with Tommy.

“Yeah, The Call. I’ve been writing for them for a while - it’s shit pay but I enjoy doing it, and I’m working on some bigger things that will hopefully pay a bit more.” Without Freddie’s position as a blinder, Ada would have had to accepted money off of Tommy whilst they were raising Karl. Socialism was all fun and games until you relied on it to feed and clothe growing boy.

“I’ll buy an issue that you’ve written in if I can, Ade.” Finn told her, having supported all of her previous ventures before he could read them - all about the sentiment, he decided.

Soon after Karl and Charlie had gone to bed, everyone else did.

Everyone but Ada, that is, who sat up and waited for Freddie. The clock managed to go slower with every second, and she wanted to sleep. She’d finished up the first draft of her article and had learnt not to edit drunk, even though she was tipsy at most. Ada didn’t want Karl to wake up to a mum with a hangover.

The Shelby family had already got enough alcoholics. Ada was not one of  them.

It had hit midnight, and Ada had had enough. She was promised an hour or two, she had waited four. It was now the next day, and Ada was walking up the stairs. Freddie had been arrested, and would have been home four hours ago - the same time as Tommy and Alfie - if he really wanted to be there, he would have been.

“Ade!” Called a voice, followed by rampant running through the hall - Mary would be offended by the dirty footsteps on the floor she so diligently checked every morning, but would make no comment because the pay more than compensate for the fact that she worked for complete crackheads. Not literally, anymore, though.

Ada spun on her heel, arms crossed around her waist, journal in hand. Who else would she see than Freddie. Her own love, her own equal. Relief flooded her veins when she saw him, only paralleled by the rush of anger.

“Where the fuck were you?” Ada hissed, glaring him out. She was too angry, too tired to have a screaming match, so she just hissed.

Freddie found that scarier.

“I had to get my stuff, and I got you flowers, and other stuff, and fuck, Ada, I’m sorry.” Freddie apologised, racing towards her. “Is Karl okay?”

“About Karl - he’s fine. He wouldn’t be fine though, Freddie, if this was the time that they decided that no bail could get you out. If I had to drive to prison every saturday so that our son knew he had a dad? If I had to drive to prison every saturday to see my husband? For what? Freddie, I can’t do this without you!” Ada told him in a hushed yell, shaking as she let it out.

“That’s not going to happen, alright? It’s not going to happen. Even in all of the alternate universes, there’s not one where I don’t stay.” Freddie told her honestly, hand gently cupping her jaw.

“We’ll talk about alternate universes later; you’re very wrong.  Right now I want to know why the fuck the dead Karl Marx is more important than the real Karl upstairs, who asked where Daddy was and I had to distract him with trains.” Ada explained, pointing up the stairs to where Karl was sleeping with Charlie a few rooms down. “I have to explain why Daddy sometimes doesn’t come home.”

Ada watched as her words registered on Freddie’s face, and waited for his reply. She had no idea what she needed to hear, but she knew that she needed something other than sorry.

“Ade, I took the time to think - both in the cell and whilst Tom and Alfie were threatening to mutilate me. I keep putting the cause in front of you and Karl, and it’s not right - it’s not what I married you to do.” Freddie told her, just happy that she hadn’t ran away yet or told him to get fucked.

“I didn’t marry you to never see you either, Fred.” Ada told him, most of the anger seeping from her, leaving only the relief that he wasn’t dead. “Tom did say that Alfie was being nice.”

“I have a feeling he was.” He chuckled, scratching the back of his neck.

Ada laughed, nodding. “He probably was.”

“So, back to this. Ade. Promise you I’ll do my best not to get arrested - actually, this time - and I’ll be at home more.” Freddie promised, aware that there was still a car boot full of things in the drive if she accepted his promise, including the flowers that he hoped weren’t wilting.

“Good. Now if I’d have heard that three hours earlier…” Ada mused, smirking.

“I got you flowers!” He protested, kissing her cheek.

“Where are they then?” She teased, pulling him back in for an actual kiss. “Go get the stuff - I’d help you but it’s fucking freezing.”

“Hot chocolate?” Freddie asked, walking back down the stairs with her.

“I would love some. I’ll be in the lounge, I’ll help you take the stuff up when we go up.”

“Great.” Freddie thought he probably deserved to be the one making hot chocolate at that moment so he didn’t comment.

Freddie had a suitcase in one hand and a single flower in the other, making Ada grin as she saw him. Something about that smile of his reminded her why she loved him in the first place, of the time spent under the bridge, sitting on coats.

“A single flower for Mrs Thorne.” He smiled, dropping the suitcase down carefully and giving her the flower on a bent knee.

Ada took it in between her fingers, then pulled Freddie up to sit next to her.

“It’d be more, but they got damaged on the way.” He told her, wrapping an arm around her and letting himself just breathe. God, he loved her so much. If only he knew how to express it.

Ada hooked the flower through her buttonhole and shook her head. “It’s perfect.”

“I’m glad, love. Still want that hot chocolate?” Freddie asked, not wanting to move from her. A day was too long, especially when he was aware that it could be the time he had forgotten to say I love you before walking out the house that morning.

“I’d love some.” She nodded, sinking back into the sofa as he left to boil the kettle. Typical, she thought, her aunt was right again. It had taken a remarkable thirty minutes, and everything was normal again.

Ada wouldn’t really have it any other way, though - she needed him, her equal, her best friend, her biggest annoyance. They needed eachother, and no policeman, no brother, no son, no queen, nor anyone else could take that from them.

[poweredbycoffeeandwine]

A Glance at the Sun

Mass Effect Andromeda Fic - Camille Ryder x LIam Kosta - Pre-relationship  Here is my take on the first Christmas in Andromeda for Camille. Hope you enjoy!

Morale among Initiative staff had been on an upward trend, and nothing could keep that going like a big holiday party. With that in mind Addison had suggested that the station celebrate the Earth holiday of Christmas. The timing was perfect. She hoped that a party would demonstrate the good that could come from supporting the Initiative. Tann however announced the celebration was “In honor of the Human Pathfinder and her recent accomplishments.”

She knew what being manipulated was like, and this was definitely it. Forcing her to be involved to help boost morale put more strain on her, and she was quite frankly tired of “Eight” yanking her around when she had important leads to follow. Camille wanted to call bullshit, and take her crew elsewhere, but couldn’t bring herself to do it. The Salarian’s scheming aside, Ryder was astonished by the decor and lights squirreled away in personal -and even official - Nexus supplies. Overnight the station workers transformed the place to look like a proper winter wonderland. With her team, and so many others, excited with the prospect, she didn’t have it in her to deny them the chance to let loose.

Instead of having the mother of all tantrums, hiding in her room with corney holiday vids, she found herself watching the festivities from Addison’s office. With any luck people would forget she was around, and she could slink back to the Tempest. One hand gripping the glass barrier, she sipped whatever beverage Dutch was calling wine, and attempted to avoid eye contact with everyone. Her plan backfired quickly as a slightly tipsy -and very handsy- Keri T’Vessa found her. Her normally professional friend had obviously drank a little too much, and was a decidedly friendly drunk.

Ryder broke free, ushered her into Hakim’s waiting arms, and rushed to the Operation’s balcony. She was flustered and blushing profusely. She knew Keri would be mortified by the interaction once sober. Smoothing out her dress, she tucked her hair behind her ear and took the opportunity to survey the area. Gil had commandeered a table, and set up an impromptu game of poker. By the look on his face, she believed he was already making a killing. Vetra was not far away, talking shop like always. She smiled to herself, the idea of the Turian taking a night off was too amusing.

Drack held court, pretending to hate the attention he was getting. Nexus Security -especially the humans- pleading for war stories and tips from the grizzled war veteran. She attempted to look casual as she glanced his way. Pretending not to be looking for anyone specific, but knowing full well that if Liam was going to be anywhere, it was near Drack. Despite their squabbles, Drack won him over with his tough love attitude that didn’t fool anyone.

She would never admit to actively keeping tabs on Liam. She toyed with the idea of confessing how she felt about him, but shoved the idea back down time and time again. Getting caught up in his teasing and flirting happened far too often. When she stepped back, silent witness to his interactions with others, she doubted that he saw her as anything special. He had a natural ease and charm, a disarming smile, and no shortage of admirers.  Ryder really had no interest in seeing him be the life of the party, no interest in playing savior of the galaxy while nursing a broken heart. Especially since he had done nothing but show her kindness.  She would never accuse him of leading her on, however, she allowed herself to rush into infatuation faster than she previously assumed possible.

Glutton for punishment that she was, she scanned the room for him, heart plummeting when she didn’t find him. She was being an idiot. Why could she handle fighting Kett, playing diplomat, and general Pathfinding, but she couldn’t talk to a guy? A very goofy guy. Hell, she could do this. She tossed her drink back, downing her mostly full glass in one go, and stopped by the makeshift bar. Shared a pointed look with Anan T’Mari, and reached behind the counter, helping herself to a bottle of alcohol. If she was going to speak to the object of her affections, tell him she was falling madly in love with him, she was going to need more courage than she had at present. Of course, her entire plan hinged on Liam being somewhere she could find him. Should she inquire about him? That wouldn’t be unusual, right? Just looking in on her squadmates, nothing that anyone could take out of context…

Like a sign from the universe, Drack appeared next to her at the bar, ordered something strong, and grumbled. “What’s got you looking like a jumpy little pyjak?”

“I don’t… what do you mean? Nothing going on here, just relaxing, hanging out….chilling.” She cringed internally, did she actually say that aloud?

He laughed, a deep rumble, and gave her a pat on the back, “Is being uncomfortable part of this Christmas of yours? The boy looked a little green, too.”

“Liam’s not feeling well?” she asked, quickly feigning plucking at imaginary lint; fighting to appear nonchalant, but the urge to bolt making her skin itch.

“Mmmhmm,” Drack grunted his assent, pausing to drink, “he got this queasy look about him like a bronto kicked him in the quad.”

“That doesn’t sound good. Maybe someone should go check on him?”

“Probably.”

“So…I should go.”

“Not stopping you, kid.”

“Ok…right. I guess I’ll do that.” Camille grabbed for her pilfered alcohol, two glasses, and walked quickly to the tram, happily leaving the Christmas party behind.

**

Liam stalked to the Tempest. The artificial air of the Nexus only slightly cooler than the interior area hosting the party. The bodies packed together had done nothing to settle his nerves. He would be lying if he hadn’t thought of trying to get Camille alone at some point, hoping to use the crowd in his favor. Maybe casually drop how pretty she looked, even if that didn’t come close to describing what he felt. When she first stepped on stage with Tann, his heart had damn near stopped. She wore a cream tulle skirt that hit her knees, and a burgundy long sleeve sweater. The heels on their own were enough to send him into shock. Sure, Ryder always looked good. She was fighting fit, got dirty on missions, and filled out the armor. But seeing her in a dress, all shapely legs, and hair curling around her neck, had him reeling.

When did everything go all pear shaped? He was standing around, trying to be obvious, in case she was looking to talk to him. Or making sure he would see her first in case some other bugger tried to talk her up. He didn’t count on the damn Asari. Were they snogging and he hadn’t noticed? That didn’t seem right, and the gossip mongers would have caught wind if she was in a relationship. Even struggling to survive, people loved their tabloids.

Inside the ship, he wandered a bit, not quite sure what to do. The quiet of the ship never settled right with him. Thoughts came unbidden, and when he had time to think, he realized how much he missed. Everything he lost, and most of it gone for good. He rolled up his sleeves, and took a good look around. Camille had a fake Christmas tree set up in the hangar bay. She begged them all to help her decorate it. Some weird team building kick she was on. Ryder had been so cute and hopeful, he had volunteered to help, even though everyone else said no.

It took them three hours. The lights had been easy, some multi colored strand she got from the Nexus. The hard part had been coming up with ornaments. They ended up using strange bits of things - cereal box pieces tied with string for Vetra, playing cards for Gil, shiny rocks for Suvi. All random ridiculous items for each member of their mixed up crew. Liam lay on the floor and stuck his head under the tree. He stared up at the lights, squinting his eyes, watching them blur. He had done it often as a kid. Mum had shown him, told him it was her favorite part about the tree. Lights shimmering, ornaments reflecting light, quiet and calm.

“Is there room for one more under that tree?”

He closed his eyes, he knew her voice like the melody of his favorite song, and damn if it wasn’t the best thing he’d heard all night. “Course, always room, Pathfinder.” She had been walking towards him, but he could see her now bare feet pause mid stride. She always hesitated when he used her title. He felt like such an arse at times. Not knowing what made him use the title. She had a name, had asked him to use it once, but it always felt wrong. Like he wasn’t respecting her somehow.

She set her shoes down on the floor, and slid next to him. Shoulder to shoulder, hands nearly touching, hair spilling around her like a halo,  it was certainly the closest they had been out of armor. Liam swore he could feel the heat of her, the scent of roses and jasmine pulling him closer than appropriate. God he was in love, and she didn’t have a clue what effect she had on him. Probably thought he was a replacement brother since hers was out of commission. “This is a great spot for a party, sorry if I’m crashing it,” she finally said breaking the silence that had fallen around them.

“No worries, Camille. I just…that was a bit much for me. Room full of people, guess I’ve gotten used to being on the Tempest out in space.”

She sighed, and rubbed a hand up and down her arm, “Yeah, I get it. Things have been different. Not what I expected at any rate. It’s exhausting being Pathfinder. I wish…”

Liam turned his head to look at her, “Alright?”

She let out a half laugh, “It’s stupid isn’t it. Mom and Dad both gone, I don’t have a clue if Scott will ever wake up, and it’s the first Christmas in Andromeda. I’m not the only person that’s missing family, but I feel so alone.” Her voice cracked and Liam reached over for her hand, holding it tightly in his own. “Everyone wants something from me, and I can’t stop thinking about what I would be doing if we hadn’t left Earth.”

He knew, knew exactly how that felt, and damn if having first hand knowledge didn’t make his heart break for her even more. “Tell me,” he offered voice a little rough with emotion. “What else did you get up to? Bet you were a right piece. Your poor mum having to deal with two of you.”

She laughed, genuinely this time, amber eyes dancing with mischief mingled with unshed tears. “Oh we did all the normal things like rummaging through mom’s closet to find presents early. We still did that, even though we were grown. Sang along terribly while we watched Muppet Christmas Carol on repeat. Mom baked, amazing and delicious things, and always let us lick up the batter.” She went quiet for a moment, then continued in a whisper, “I’m such a jerk.”

“What’s that? I don’t follow.”

“Here I am whining like a brat, and you are probably suffering more.” She rolled out from under the tree, skirt puffing up hiding her legs, making her look like a mermaid in ocean foam. She tugged at his hand, pulling him along with her. She smiled, huge and unguarded, and if he had thought she was beautiful before, he had been very wrong. Seeing her true smile was like stealing a glance at the sun, bright and warm. She set him on fire from the inside out. Picking up a bottle of wine, and waving it in his face she supplied, “I swiped this from the bar, I’m going to drink it all, are you going to make me do it alone?”

“Hell no, Ryder. Pour away.” He watched her face as she concentrated on filling each glass to the brim, tossing him a grin when she achieved her goal. They clinked their glasses together, then Liam leaned over voice soft and said, “I have Muppet Christmas Carol on vid, and I’ll share my comfy couch.”

“This is why you are my favorite man in the universe,” she squealed kissing him soundly on the cheek. He sat dumbstruck as she stood and began to walk out, leaving her shoes behind. She looked over her shoulder, eyebrow raised and asked, “You coming?”

“Wouldn’t miss it, Ryder.” He scrambled up, trying not to spill his drink, hoping there might be something between them after all. He wouldn’t press it tonight, only a sod would take advantage of a woman’s loneliness, but he would tell her soon. He wasn’t fool enough to let her slip away.

[notwithout-mymuse]

Fic: too much information

7 Days of Robron: Day 5 – Smut + “Do it. Please”.

In which Aaron wants Robert to make some friends, but may end up regretting it.

Ok, so this one is sort of cheating, because I’m a rubbish smut-writer, but it’s sort of smut related, so I hope it’s still enjoyable! Vic and Adam are still together in this fyi.

Pairings: Robert/Aaron, Vic/Adam, Pete/Leyla, David/Tracy.

Warnings: sexual references, alcohol.

–

Aaron is half-way down the spiral staircase, but he can still hear Robert complaining from their bedroom.

“…just don’t understand why you invited the others? I mean Vic and Adam I understand but…”

“Look, it’s happening so you might as well just shut up and deal with it! It won’t hurt you to socialise for one evening, you never know – you might even get some people to like you!.” Aaron hollers back. He stops by the mirror to check on his hair and watches as his whining husband follows him down the stairs in his new white shirt and his best jeans, looking unfairly gorgeous for someone acting so grumpy.

Although, Aaron thinks his reflection looks slightly less grumpy when he wraps his arms around him from behind, and nuzzles into his neck.

“You know the only reason I’m letting you get away with this is because you look fit in that shirt I bought you, right?” Robert tells him, now nipping slightly at the lobe of Aaron’s ear.

Aaron shrugs his husband off and turns to face him before he gets any ideas. He doesn’t respond to the comment, because he already knew that. It’s why he’d chosen the new crisp, slim-fitting, navy button-down, rather than one of his usual t-shirts, to sweeten the deal.

“Can you at least try to enjoy tonight? Do it. Please! For me if nothing else?”.

“Okay, okay! I’ll be on my best behaviour. I promise.” Robert says, leaning in to kiss Aaron, long and lingering, until they’re interrupted by the doorbell.

“I’ll get the door, you get the booze.” Aaron tells his husband, and Robert at least looks enthusiastic about that.

So really, Aaron knows he’s only got himself to blame. This had all been his fault after all. They had been in the Mill for nearly six months, when Adam had pointed out over lunch in the portacabin, that they had never rescheduled their postponed housewarming party.

Neither of them had been keen to have a huge party, and there had been no point inviting masses of Dingles when they had all been round a hundred times before, so Aaron had ended up inviting Pete and Leyla when they had got chatting the next day in the pub. Leyla had immediately latched on to the idea of a couples evening, and somehow David and Tracy ended up invited too.

So with Liv staying for the week with her mum, that’s how the eight of them ended up taking over the living room of the Mill. It’s a little bit awkward at first, as many parties are, with people making polite small-talk.

But before long the alcohol is flowing, they order a load of pizza, and Aaron finds a pack of cards for them to play with around the kitchen table. They’re all having a laugh as David recounts Eric’s latest dating disaster and Pete tells some pretty hilarious stories about Ross as a teenager.

Aaron is pleased to see that a couple of beers have loosened Robert up, and honestly that had been a lot of the reasoning behind Aaron’s plans for tonight. Once again, the idea had been planted in his head by Adam, in his best friend’s usual (completely unintentional) wisdom. It had just been a passing comment made in the pub one night, when Aaron had been watching Adam and Robert bicker over a game of darts again. Robert had disappeared off to the toilet, and Adam had clapped Aaron on the shoulder on his way to the bar, still chuckling.

“You know, that husband of yours i’nt so bad once you get to know him properly.”

Of course, Aaron knew that Adam was right, that Robert was so much more than what most people expected of him, he just wasn’t used to other people realising it too. It’s not that Robert is bad with people, he’s capable of being incredibly charming and charismatic when he wants to be, Aaron knows that he’s just not a very trusting person, and it takes a lot for Robert to open up and form connections with people.

So seeing his husband laughing and joking with a group of mates made Aaron smile. Until he heard the next words out of Tracey’s slightly tipsy mouth.

“You know what we should play next?” She asked the group, tossing her cards down in the centre of the table. “Never have I ever.”

“Seriously, what are we, fourteen? We’ll be playing spin the bottle next!” Pete snorts.

“Nah why not, it could be a laugh.”

Aaron’s head shoots up when he realises that it was Robert who agreed with her, and when he turns to look questioningly at him, Robert’s already watching him, eyes sparkling with mischief and Aaron knows instantly that this is payback.

As the others search the kitchen for shot glasses, Robert leans over and whispers in Aaron’s ear, echoing his own words from earlier back to him.

“Do it. Please.”

It starts off not so bad.

“Never have I ever… been arrested.”

“Never have I ever… skinny dipped.”

“Never have I ever… forgotten the name of a one night stand.”

Most of them are drinking frequently, and Aaron thinks maybe this won’t be so bad after all. But then Leyla, not far behind Tracey in her tipsiness, decides to spice it up a bit.

“Never have I ever… had sex outdoors.”

This time, the second he’s knocked back his shot, Aaron becomes painfully aware that he and Robert were the only ones who had drank. Aaron can feel his neck and ears burning red already, and there’s an awkward silence, broken only by Vic’s grumbling as she face-palms

“Ugh, I knew that playing this game with my brother was a bad idea! I really didn’t need to know that!”

It’s Tracey who breaks the awkwardness, with a low whistle.

“Fair play lads, fair play!” Her comment prompting the group to burst into laughter.

Aaron can’t ignore the smug look on Robert’s face though, and has to resist the urge to kick him under the table. Especially when the questions keep catching the two of them out:

“Never have I ever… shagged someone in the backseat of a car.”

“Never have I ever… sent someone a dirty picture.”

“Never have I ever… had sex on my desk at work.” (Which had been the only one that Adam hadn’t cackled at.)

The others are drinking here and there too (David and Tracy seeming especially enthusiastic about the car one), but Robert and Aaron are the only ones drinking almost continuously now, and everyone knows it.

Aaron could end the game, or think of a different one to play, but Robert’s still got that arrogant smirk on his face every time he looks at him and Aaron would never back down from a challenge like that, even if he ends up blackout drunk with a face the colour of a lobster.

It’s Vic who thankfully puts an end to it, looking a little bit ill, and insisting that she doesn’t want to know a single word more about what her brother gets up to with his husband in private, thank you very much!

“Not always that private though, ey boys!” David sniggers.

There’s one more round of drinks before everyone starts to stumble home, Adam wearing Vic’s scarf, David and Tracy somehow knocking over a plant pot, and Pete giving Leyla a piggy-back after it quickly became obvious that her heels were a disaster waiting to happen.

The kitchen and living area look like they’ve been hit by a bomb, and Robert is slumped on the sofa when Aaron finally closes the door behind their guests. When he sits down next to his husband, Robert looks so relaxed and cheerful that Aaron can’t bring himself to be annoyed so he cuddles up to him instead.

“You were right, tonight was good.” Robert tells him.

“Told ya. I’m getting you back for that bloody game though.”

“Mmm ‘kay” Robert mumbles sleepily from his spot on Aaron’s shoulder.

They both end up falling asleep on the sofa, all thoughts of their cosy bed and the mountain of rubbish forgotten.

And if they both end up getting wolf-whistled at the next time they go in the pub, Aaron supposes there are worse things to be known for.