#not even to say we'd circle back after the holidays

[ardentperfidy]

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[xwanderlusterx3]

Christmas in the UK (Tom Hiddleston/OC Fanfic)

Author's note: This is all inspired by a dream I had over a year ago; I haven't written in a long time and am trying to get back into it- be gentle with me. Hope you enjoy.

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Tom and I have been what one would describe as best friends for years- it was the holiday season and he had invited me to his flat in London to have dinner with his siblings who were in town for Christmas. This was my first time meeting them after years of just hearing their names and stories. When I arrived they were all already there, sitting cozily in the living room of Tom's large flat- his sisters and their small families. As I entered the room I was immediately greeted by warm smiles, and a kiss on the cheek from Tom.

Emma, small with dirty blonde hair and a sweet smile, the youngest of the three Hiddleston siblings, shook my hand and introduced her husband Jack and two boys- Aiden who was 5 and full of energy, and Charlie who was only a few months old, cuddle in blankets in Jack's arms.

I turned and greeted Sarah, the middle child of the Hiddleston family, with strawberry blonde hair, tight eyes and a fierce face that was a bit intimidating as she took a minute to assess me. Her husband Yakov gave a polite smile as she introduced him and their daughter Lacey, age 9, who was spinning in her Christmas princess dress.

“It's great to finally meet you all. I'm just sorry it took so long to do so.”

“Don't be sorry,” Emma smiled, “Its not your fault Tom didn't bring you around sooner.” she smacked him lightly on the shoulder.

“Hey now, its not been necessarily easy to international travel here as of late, or have you forgotten?” He replied.

“Excuses, excuses.” Emma sasses, “but we are so glad you could be here to join us this evening. We are so happy to have you.” and she seemed genuine about that.

“I'm surprised you were able to breakaway from work and family around the holidays in order to come out to merry old London.” Sarah was looking at her nails, almost disinterested. “What does your husband think of all this?” she pries and I can already sense she may not not like me.

“Sarah. .” Tom warned.

I reach a hand toward him in protest, “No, its ok. I was expecting a question like that.”

Sarah looked surprised.

“He's totally fine with it. Brett's met Tom plenty of times and knows how close we are. Plus, it's been my dream to make it out to London around Christmas and unfortunately he wasn't able to get the same time off as or he'd be here too.”

“Right. How unfortunate.” she nodded.

Jeez, we'd just met and already I could feel the disdan radiating off her.

Emma smiled, taking the smallest of her two boys from her husbands arms. “Forgive her, she can be a bit cheeky sometimes, but she means well.” she came beside me, cradling little Charlie in her grasp.

“It's ok, I promise.” my voice slowly turned into a coo, as I reached my hand to Charlies, letting his tiny hand wrapping around my finger.

“Do you want to hold him?” she offered, motioning the baby toward me.

“Oh no, I couldn't.”

“Sure you could” Tom beamed, “It'll do you some good.”

I could spit at his shit eating grin, he was doing this on purpose. Tom knew I wasn't a kid person, and he adored them.

“Just for a moment, I promise he barely cries.” Emma adjusted her form to give me access to taking hold of little Charlie, I grabbed at him awkwardly, worried I'd not support the neck or heaven forbid drop him mid transfer, but there he was, in my arms, staring back at me with bright eyes and a hint of a smile.

Maybe this wasn't all bad.

I made sure to look up to give Tom a small glare and he chuckled before whispering, “but you're doing so well.”

I shook my head and began to bouncing Charlie, walking around in a circle where I stood.

“I guess you aren't so bad,” I say lowly, freeing one of my arms to let Charlie wrap his small hand around my finger again. I had to admit, he was pretty cute and he smelled so sweet. I never imagined having children, it wasn't something I wanted, but the longer I held him, the more I found myself able to at least consider becoming a mother. . .maybe. . one day.

I could feel several eyes on me all around the room, I gazed up to see Emma, her head cocked gently to once side, admiring the maternal instincts come out in me, Sarah, biting the side of her lip with an annoyed expression and lastly Tom, his eyes glistening with a wide grin on his face. He moved toward me, walking around to position his chest at my back, placing his hands on either of my shoulders, resting his chin by my neck. “Careful, Brittany.” his voice low and buttery, “We might make a mum out of you yet.”

I won't deny, in our years of friendship and the depth of how I felt for Tom that I hadn't fantasized about what a life with him as my partner would be like. Marriage, kids, a house with a white picket fence - the whole thing.

Just then an image flashed in my mind of he and I pushing a toddler in a swing and my cheeks burned red.

I was snapped out of my day dream by Toms hand, moving hair from the side of my face to tuck it behind my shoulder, I positioned my head to look at him and he rested his forehead on mine, letting out a sigh of what sounded like contentment.

I would have paid good money to know what he was thinking in that moment.

“Alright then!” Sarah shouted, clasping her hands together, “When can we anticipate dinner?”

Tom dropped his hold on me and suddenly the room was a little colder.

“Ah yes, dinner. It should be ready any moment now, Brittany - would you be so kind as to help me set the table?” Tom began for what I imagined was the kitchen. I happily agreed, gentling handing Charlie back off to Emma who praised me for how good I'd been with him.

Making our way into the kitchen to load up on dishes and silverware Tom rested a hand on my lower back, guiding me to the correct room of the flat.

“I am truly sorry about Sarah,” he said in little more than a whisper.

“Don't even worry about it, like I said, I expected questions.”

We were in the kitchen now and it smelled divine. Mashed potatoes and thick brown gravy on the stove and the scent of turkey radiating from the oven.

“You did all this yourself?” the kitchen island was full of homemade cookies and small tarts as well.

“My sisters brought a few dishes, so I can't take all the credit, but you do know I love to cook.” Tom said stirring the gravy.

“I can't believe this is the first time I've let you cook for me, Mr. Hiddleston. I promise it wont be the last.” I say playfully.

“You only needent ask , my dear.” he smiles and it touches his eyes.

It warms my heart seeing how happy he was to have my company. It had been almost a year since we'd seen each other in person, but we talked almost every day via text or facetime. He had been so busy lately with shooting films, press interviews and such, that he barely had time for mundane tasks, let alone visit with a friend who lived so far away.

“I'm really happy you're here.” he reassured my thoughts, reaching to take my hand in his.

“Really? I couldn't tell.” I tease, watching his thumb rub over the back of my palm.

“What? Why not?” his brow furrowed.

“Well, for starters. . You haven't hugged me yet.”

He chuckled, “Then come here, you.” he pulled my hand, motioning me into his arms for an embrace. Tom hugs truly were the best hugs. Warm, deep and comforting- like a cozy blanket. I had to stand on my tippy-toes to rest my head on his shoulder, not only because I was short, but because he had always been so tall. My nose was greeted with the scent of his hair that lay resting there, it had grown quite long since I'd last seen him, and it really did suit him.

I'm sorry I've been so busy lately,” he said into my hair, laying light kisses on my head. “I promise I'll make it up to you in the four days we have. I'll be at your beck and call every second, showing you all around London. How does that sound?” He has me at arms length now, looking me directly in the eyes with such promise.

“Sounds perfect.” I almost forget how to speak, our time apart had caused me to completely become oblivious to the chemistry we shared. There was always a magnetic pull between him and I, since day one. It wasn't anything he and I could act on since when we met I had already been married for some time, but out friendship was too precious to just let go of because we couldn't be together romantically. This had been something we had had heavy talks about several times in the past, but nothing ever really changed between us.

His eyes scanned my face, as if taking in all the detail of my features he had missed, memorizing them, before stopping at my lips. Like gravity pulling him in, his face began to close in on mine and before I could object Sarah's voice interrupted.

“This doesn't look like setting the table to me.” her voice was laced in anger and my face went red with embarrassment.

“Oh good, Sarah's come to help. It'll go quicker with another set of hands.” Tom chimed, apparently going to act like we hadn't just almost been caught in a kiss.

“ Brother, I. .”

“Later, dear sister. We've got hungry mouths waiting.” Tom zoomed past her with plates in his hand, headed toward the dinning table.

Sarah simply glared in my direction before opening the silverware drawer with a huff.

Lovely, just lovely.

Dinner was as delicious as it smelled, we had all managed to make enough small talk to fill all possible silence. . Well everyone but Sarah, who refused to do anything but glare back and forth between Tom and I. I learned a lot about Emma and husband, their jobs, how they met- even a little about their son, including his favorite color. Sarah's husband would join in from time to time, but not a peep was made from Sarah, herself.

When everyone had finished their meal, Tom and Emma were in the middle of a reminiscent conversation, so I decided to take this time to collect everyone's dirty dishes. I hated doing dishes, but I felt like it would be a nice gesture as well as give me a little time to think and collect myself after what had taken place by the stove not long ago.

“No, no. Set those down. You are a guest, guest don't do dishes. What kind of host would Tom be if he let you clean up after us.” Emma said the moment she realized what I was doing.

“It really is no trouble, plus I want to feel like I did something for you guys tonight.” I replied, taking the dish from in front of Sarah, careful not to make eye contact.

“Set those down, love. I will take care of them.” Tom cooed. I directed my eyes to his that were apologetic, knowing his actions earlier had probably completely shot my nerves.

“Please, let me.” I tried to communicate to him without words- to give me this moment to myself. “I love doing dishes. It'd be my treat.” I lied. I know he knows I hate dishes.

His eyes fell to his wine that he'd barely touched and nodded. “Alright. I'll allow it, but only because you love it so.” he said, taking the glass in his hand before downing the contents. “And bring me back another glass on your way back, will you, love?” I half smiled, knowing the situation had driven him to drink. I really shouldn't have come.

“Of course, be back in a bit.” I excused myself to the kitchen.

What was I doing here?

I had battled with my decision to say yes to Tom's proposal that I come out here for months before I agreed to. My husband, Brett, had reasoned with me, telling me I'd kick myself if I didn't come, which I would have, but he had no idea there was anything but friendship between Tom and I.

This was a mistake, right? I had just gotten here and already we had almost kissed. I had 4 more days of having to be on good behavior.

This was foolish, yes- but I couldn't just leave on the next plane out of the country.

Or should I?

I was a few dishes way from being finished when I felt someone enter the room with me.

“Are you just here to break my brother's heart, or what?” I turned around startled to see Sarah in the door way, a glass of red wine in her hand, almost empty.

“What? No, I would never. . .”

“Really? Than why are you here? Half way on the other side of the world from your dear husband, with a man who is clearly head over heels for you.” she sloshed her glass at me as she spoke.

“Sarah, I promise- we are just friends, really good friends. I didn't come out here to make trouble, I came here to meet you guys and see London. I. .”

“Do you think I'm daft? That Emma and I are both blind to the way he feels about you? Bloody hell, are you really so foolish?” she laughed. “We've tried to get him to date for years and he refuses. Something about time,” waving a hand in the air, “but we all know it's because of you.” she glares.

“I promise, I. .”

“No, listen here. . I know exactly your ploy. You came out here to use Tom for a good time, let him dote over you, spend his hard earned money on dinner and gift. .just so you can leave and run back to your husband when its all over. Breaking him, when he realizes he can't keep you, leaving Emma and I to pick up the piece.” tears are filling both our eyes at her words and I'm at a loss for what to say.

“That's . .”I stumble over the lump in my throat. “That's not why I'm here.”

“Well, good- because I won't allow it. Tom deserves happiness, damnit. A happiness you can't provide, so why don't you finish those dishes girl, grab your things and go right back where you came from.” she gulped the last of her wine before turning on her heal to retreat back into the dinning room.

I stood in place, shocked.

Sarah held nothing back and I was left to process it all.

I had to leave, I couldn't spend another moment here. Not if it meant hurting Tom, not if it meant being in the same house with Sarah.

Crying, I quickly finished the last of the dishes, dried my hands and took a few deep breaths. I would have to think of something clever, something believable. I wiped my eyes, to clear the tears while thinking of a good reason for my exit.

I'd' grab the next taxi and head directly back to the airport, hopping the next plane back home, even it meant sleeping in those uncomfortable chairs while I waited. I'd have to figure out what to tell Brett on the flight.

I collected myself before working up the courage to show my face again in the dinning room which I now realize was most likely full of people who don't want me here. My heart clinches at the thought of Emma faking her delight in meeting me. Was acting just a talent that ran in the family or was she actually genuinely happy I was here?

I shook the thought from my head, it didnt matter anymore, I was leaving.

Biting back my pride I made my way to the table. "Brett just called," my voice wavering. "He thinks he might have Covid." I lied, looking only at Tom whose expression turned concerned.

"Oh that's awful. Is he ok?" Emma stood from her chair and leaned toward me.

"He isn't doing so well, so it looks like I'll be cutting my trip short." I dropped my gaze. I couldn't continue looking at Tom, he'd know I wasn't truthful, he could read me like a book.

"Well that's no good, when will you be leaving?" Jack, Emma's husband asked.

"Right away, I'm afraid. I've already got my flight booked." Lies continued to spew from my mouth in the form of word vomit and all I could do was hope that I was half as good at acting as Tom was. 

"What? So soon?" Tom stood from his seat. 

"Unfortunately." I nodded.

"Well, that really is to bad." Sarah tried for sincere but I could hear the victory hiding in her voice.

I felt the tears forming, threatening to split over the brim of my eyes, giving me away. "Thank you all for tonight. For. .everything." I take one last apologetic look at Tom before hurrying for my things in the living room. 

"Brittany, wait." He calls for me, but I've got to get out of here and into the next taxi or I won't be able to keep up my act. 

In a rush, I sling on my coat and grab my luggage.

"Brittany. . " Tom calls again, closer this time.

And I'm out the door, greeted by frigged air and a light snow fall.

The road is busy with the Christmas hustle, as I hail for the next available cab. 

"Come on, come on. . " I urge as two taxi's voom past. 

I think to walk around the corner to make it look like I'm long gone when Tom inevitably comes to find me, but I'm too little to late. Tom's concerned tone rings out from the door of the flat behind me. 

"Sorry I. . " 

Somewhere on the walk from the door to my side Tom's concern turned to anger, "So that's it then?"

"Wha.."

"I nearly kiss you and you run?"

Oh Gods, he thinks this is his fault. "No, that's not at all what this is about. . I told you .."

"I know what you told me, I also know it was a damn lie." He sneers, "Do you truly think I don't know you well enough to tell when you're blatantly lying to my family and I's faces?"

Ouch. This whole plan was set to avoid hurting him and it seems I've managed to anyway. 

"Tom, I. ."

"If it wasn't the almost kiss, than what is it than?" He huffs and the warm air is visible in the cold. "And please," his voice falters a bit, "try not to lie."

I can feel a part of my heart shatter at his plea. This isn't at all how I saw this trip going and depending on how the next few minutes went I may lose my best friend forever. 

"It was a mistake coming here." That didn't come out how I meant it to and I'm plague with instant regret. 

Tom's expression had fallen so quickly, I'm afraid I'll never be able to mend what was just broken. "I see."

"Tom, I don't know what I expected to happen when I came out here. . I'm married." I reminded him.

"Wait. ." His left eyebrow lifted. "Did Sarah say something to you?".

I wasn't sure if I should be relieved that he came to this conclusion on his own without me being a tattle-tale or worried that he'd found the truth and what rift that may cause in the relationship between the two. 

I paused to think.

"Brittany, tell me." His teeth were gritted together in anger again. 

"She's only looking out for you." I came to her defense and not even I'm sure why.

His arms raised, landing his hands behind his head, "I knew it." He said, almost relieved? "What did she say to you exactly?"

I shrugged, "Just that I shouldn't be here. That it would only hurt you. To go right back where I came from. ."

He sighed. 

"But, is she wrong?" I huddled my arms as close to my body as I could to try and keep warm. 

"Brittany, I invited you here because I want you here." Slowly he makes his way toward me. 

"You belong here." He reaches a large hand toward my face, resting it on my frozen cheek. "With me."

"Tom. ." I try to pry my gaze from him, but its no use. I'm a moth to the flame.

"And I should have done this a long time ago. . " before I even have a chance to think, his lips are on mine in a kiss so full of longing I almost burst. I know this is wrong and that I should move away, but my motor functions are just as much frozen in shock as they are from the cold. 

When he finally pulls away he rest his forehead on mine, his eyes to the floor. 

"I know I should apologize for that, but I have nothing to be sorry for. I've been holding that in for years." He chuckles, moving back a bit to look at me. 

It's been a moment and I'm still at a loss for words. I wasn't mad he kissed me, and in that moment I barely felt any guilt, only complete and utter contentment because I wanted it too. 

"I love you, Brittany. None of this has gone as planned so far, but as long as you know that. . " he trails off, bending my head toward him to kiss my crown.

I'm still speechless as I look at him. He seems so happy and proud of himself, its almost adorable. I'm afraid anything I might say will ruin the moment so I just stare awkwardly.

"Please," he laughs nervously. "Say something. . .anything?"

"That's just it, I don't know what to say." I grab a button on his peacoat and begin to latch it to the other side. "Or do for that matter. Where do we even go from here, Tom?"

He takes my hands in his."Brittany, look at me."

I meet his eyes.

"Do you love me?"

"Yes, but.."

He shakes his head, "Are you in love with me?"

"Again, yes- but. ."

He shakes his head again, "That's all I need to know. Now please, come back inside out of the cold. I'll deal with Sarah. We don't need to have everything figured out right now. We have 4 days to sort it all, but for the time being lets get you warm again, darling." He wraps his arm around my shoulders rubbing my sides with both his hands creating warmth from the friction. 

"When we get inside, I'll show you to your room. You get settled in and I'll deal with my sisters, alright?" 

I nod, thankful I wont have to fess up to my lie or face Sarah again. 

"Draw yourself a bath and we shall talk when your completely relaxed, ok?" 

I nod again.

We've made it to the door and I take a deep breath, he spins me toward him and plants a chaste kiss on my lips, "I love you, Brittany. You have no idea how good it feels to finally be able to say it aloud."

The End

[kitkatd7]

Old Fashion Way

12 Days of Christmas; Day 3

Pairing: Steve x Reader

Summary: Finding the perfect tree… The old fashion way

Warnings: none, just fluff! (And minor editing)

Word Count: 462

A/N: This is my 3rd 12 Days of Christmas fic! I hope yall like it! It's also a follow up to A Day in the Snow

Masterlist of Masterlists

12 Days of Christmas Masterlist

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Nestled away in the woods in a log cabin, you're enjoying your Christmas holiday. Or you were until you hear Steve murmuring, "Babe, wake up," from outside your pile of blankets. "Baby, you gotta get up now- you said we'd go get a tree today," Steve persuades, rubbing small circles on your back. 

"Mmf fine, but later," you groan. 

"Nope. Now." 

"Fine… Only if there's coffee involved though," you barter, peeking up at him. 

Reaching to his side of the bed, he returns with a travel mug of your favorite coffee. 

"I love you," you say to no one in particular, accepting the fragrant beverage. 

Chuckling, Steve asks, "Are you talking to me or the coffee?"

You take a sip. "Both."

He laughs, shaking his head at you. "You're a mess."

"True, but you're stuck with me." You hum, feeling much more awake.

"And I wouldn't have it any other way- now get up." 

30 minutes later, after a hearty breakfast and a wardrobe change out of your pajama pants, you grab the car keys from the ring by the door.

"We won't need those," Steve informs you, grabbing his thin coat. 

"Why not?"

"Because… we're doing this the old fashion way! We're gonna walk out the back door, into the woods, find the perfect tree and cut it down ourselves!" 

"Why are you always so adventurous and eager?" You mumble, placing the keys back. 

"I can still hear you," Steve huffs playfully from the sliding glass door on the side of the cabin. 

"Yeah, yeah. Supersoldier and all that," you chortle. 

Walking hand in hand through the forest with Steve, you wrap your other hand around his bicep, getting closer for warmth- mostly for warmth anyway.

"How 'bout that one?" He suggests, looking at a pretty spruce, perfect aside from a bare patch on one side. 

"Mm… let's keep looking." Breaking away from his side you begin to wander around the forest thoughtfully.

Weaving between pines, cedars, spruce, white pines, furs, and all the evergreens available, you both point out different trees for nearly an hour, never finding quite the right one. 

"How 'bout this one?" Steve calls.

Glancing over you shake your head. "Too little." 

"This is gonna take forever," he mumbles. 

"You're the one who wanted to do this," you remind him, "Also if I get frostbite I'm blaming it on-" Stopping, you look up, taking in the tree before you. 

"How about this one?" You ask, examining it from all angles thoughtfully.

It was a beautiful tree; standing 8 or 9 feet tall with soft needles and a beautiful blanket of snow covering it.

His gaze lights on you, bundled up against the cold, your cheeks rosy and your eyes bright. Not even sparing the tree a glance he murmurs, "Yep. That one's perfect."

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Thanks for reading! Please let me know what you think!!

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12 Days of Christmas Tags: (OPEN)

@myraiswack

[nicolewoo]

All Along

Pairing: Joe Anoa’i X Reader, Roman Reigns X Reader

Warning: Talk of sex and an erection. Lots of cussing

I had been moved up to Smackdown a couple months ago. Becky was super excited to see me. We'd wrestled in Canada together years ago and had become great friends. Becky made it so easy to get to know everyone. She spent most of her time with Seth (I still wasn't used to calling him Colby), which meant that Joe (Roman) and I spent a lot of time together. We bonded almost immediately and were practically inseparable. When we weren't busy, you could always find us together. We were becoming the best of friends. We ate together, we hung out together, we were always hugging, touching and tickling each other. Most of the talent at WWE was physically affectionate, especially Joe who flirted with everyone, so I never thought anything of it.

When Smackdown ended up in Tampa for the Thanksgiving break, the four of us decided to host Thanksgiving at Joe's house for anyone who wasn't going home. That was about 25 people. Joe invited Colby, Becky and I to stay at his house. I offered to cook the meal, but since I was the only one who knew how to make Thanksgiving dinner, I was going to end up doing all the work. Joe decided that I deserve to relax and ordered dinner from a restaurant.

Everyone had a great time, laughing and joking. It warmed my heart to be able to host people who had nowhere to go for the holiday. Joe commented on it too. “We did good.” He said as he wrapped an arm around my waist and I nodded in agreement. Even though we ate at 4, guests stayed long into the night. Once the guests left, we began cleaning up the kitchen. I was putting the last of the dishes in the dishwasher, while the four of us talked.

Joe was on other side of kitchen, leaning over an butcher-block island nursing a scotch he'd poured a while ago. Colby and Becky sat on kitchen stools picking at he turkey leftovers before we put them away. Joe was telling the most embarrassing Colby stories he could think of, so Becky and I could hear.

“So we're sneaking into the arena late, because this dingbat had to order his double fluffy chai, soy, whatever coffee. We were trying not to get caught. All of a sudden, we turn the corner and Colby sees Vince. He freaks out and spills his fancy coffee drink all down my back.”

“Wait Wait Wait!” Colby stopped him. You can't blame that on me.” He turned to Becky and said, “There was a cat that darted out in front of me.”

“Yeah right! Nobody else saw a cat.” Roman said as he sipped his drink. “You were just scared of Vince.”

Colby protested, “I was not!”

“Either way,” Joe continued, “So now, I'm supposed to go in the ring to do this promo, but it flat out looks like I shit myself.”

At that, Becky broke into laughter and backhanded Colby in the stomach. “No!”

Colby joined in, “Dean just about fell over laughing. He's pointing at Joe's pants and saying it 'looks like you pooped yourself' over and over again.”

Joe chuckled, “Hey, that ended up working out in our favor. Vince got so concerned about finding me clean clothes, he never realized we were late.”

“You're kidding.” I chimed in.

“Nope.” Said Colby. “We got off lucky.” He emptied his glass of wine. “I'm going to go get another glass. Does anyone want anything?”

“I'll go with you,” Becky said.

That left just Joe and I in the kitchen. He looked at me for a minute still smiling from the story he'd just told. Then there was a dead moment in the conversation.

“I don't know how to start this dishwasher.” I said.

“I'll get it.” He came over and hit a few buttons and the woosh of the machine began. Joe turned around and leaned against the counter next to me. He put his arm around my waist and I leaned my head onto his shoulder.

“This was a fantastic idea. I think everyone had a great time.” He said softly to me.

“Yeah,” I agreed.

“Thanks for helping me host it. I couldn't have done it without you.” As a thank you, he pressed a kiss onto the top of my head.

I picked my head back up and looked at him. “Oh, you could have done it yourself.” I assured him.

He smiled big, turned to me and placed his hand on my cheek. “It wouldn't have been the same without you.” He paused for a second and his voice quieted down to almost a whisper. “I'm really happy you came to Smackdown. I appreciate your friendship so much.” His smile faded, and was replaced with an expression I'd never seen from him. Tentatively, he grazed his thumb over my cheek and brushed my lips with it, his eyes watching it trail over my lip.

In that instance, I panicked. Was this what I thought it was? Dare I hope? Joe's friendship meant so much to me, but I couldn't deny the ever growing attraction I had for him. I was trying desperately to figure out what to do when his thumb stopped on my bottom lip and pressed downward so my lips parted. He ran his thumb over my lip again the pad of it now covering the whole lip and leaving a trail of heat behind it.

“Joe,” I started to say, but before I could talk, he leaned in and pressed the most gentle, loving kiss on my lips. It took my breath away. He pulled back and looked at me. When he took a deep breath, I knew the kiss had affected him as much as it did me. I leaned in and kissed him, longer this time. His arms circled around my waist as I ran my hands over his back.

We both pulled away for a second, searching each other's eyes, trying to gauge how the other felt. When Joe leaned in again, it wasn't a soft gentle kiss. It was hot, passionate and full of need. My body blazed at the feel of him against me. I parted my mouth, and he slid his tongue in. He tasted so good.  He moaned as he deepened the kiss more, his right hand going into my hair, his body began pressing me up against the counter. I was overcome by desire, and I pressed harder against him trying to get closer.

We heard Becky's laugh and pulled apart from each other. Joe had a second to look into my eyes before Colby and Becky came in. When they did, he was beside me against the counter as if nothing had happened.

Everything in me was on fire, and I was sure they would notice the tension between Joe and me, but Becks was in the middle of a story when they came in. I looked over at Joe who was still a little breathless. I noticed his hand gently brush his pants to adjust to his semi-hard penis. I smirked at him and he smiled back.

“Guys, I'm beat.” Becky began. “Do you need any more help?” she asked.

Both of us tried to answer at the same time. “No.” he said at the same time I said “We've got this.”

“You two are hanging out together too much. You're starting to think alike,” Colby joked.

“I'm tired too.” Joe added. “I think I'll be right behind you.” He said as they bid us goodnight.

We listened as they walked away. I waited until I was sure they couldn't hear us. “Joe. What....” I started, but he turned to me and held me pressing his forehead to mine. His jaw tensed as he tried to fight his desire.

“I'm sorry. I....” He trailed off.

I placed my hand to his cheek as I pulled back a tiny bit to look into his eyes. I smiled at him warmly. “It's ok.”

“I can't hide my feelings any longer.” He kissed me again. “I'm crazy about you. I have been since the minute I saw you.” He whispered, his lips still on mine.

"Why didn't you tell me?”

“I didn't want to ruin our friendship.” He said lovingly. “What if you hadn't felt the same way?”

“But I do,” I looked up at him. “I have all along.”

That brought the biggest smile to his face, and that made me smile big too. He kissed me again, then wrapped me in a giant bear hug. Joe's hugs always made me feel so safe and so warm. “I'm so happy, baby girl.”

The pet name made me smile bigger. “Sooooooo what now?” I asked.

He was grinning ear to ear. “I don't know, but I really am tired. Maybe we should sleep on it.”

“I'm tired too.” I answered.

“Then why don't we go to bed.... separately, and figure out what the next step is tomorrow after Colby and Becky leave?” He smoothed a hand over my back.

I nodded. “That sounds great.”

Joe kissed me one more time as we paused in front of my bedroom door. “Night baby girl.”

“Goodnight.”

I went to bed with the hugest smile on my face. I couldn't believe all this time Joe liked me. I mean yeah, he flirted with me, but he flirted with everyone. My mind thought back to every hug, every time he held my hand, every time we'd snuggled together watching a movie...... all of the time we'd spent together trying not to let the other know how we felt. Wasted time. And now... now that I know... now that he knows.... He's just a few feet away from me. If I go to his room now, what would happen? What did I want to happen? What would he want to happen?  My brain wouldn't stop churning, no matter how tired my body was.

I slipped out of bed and paced my room for a minute; considering my options. If I did sneak into his room, I'd probably find him asleep. I could just curl up into his arms. Colby and Becky wouldn't have to know I was in there. I could slip back into my room before they saw me.

My body yearned for him, and my heart yearned too. I wanted to feel him beside me. Would I be able to just snuggle with him now that I know how he feels? What would he think if he woke up? Question after question rolled through my head, and I didn't have answers. I knew only one thing. I wanted to be close to him. I needed to be close to him. I slipped out of my bedroom and went to his. I expected to find him sound asleep snoring, but instead, the second I opened the door, he shot up in bed. He'd been awake too.

“Come here.” He said and pulled the covers back. I snuggled into his arms.

“I couldn't sleep. I wanted to be near you so bad.”

He smoothed his hand down my back. “Me too. I wasn't sure if I should go to you or not. I'm glad you came here.” He pressed a kiss to my forehead. “Let's go to sleep.” I could feel his body relax in a matter of seconds and soon after, I heard a slight snore. I snuggled closer and fell asleep on his shoulder.

————————————————————————

A knock on the door woke us. I opened my eyes adjusting to being in Joe's bed. He smiled at me. “Lay flat.” He whispered with a giggle on his lips. He threw the covers over me and bunched them up a bit to hide me. Then he stuck a pillow over my head, causing us both to giggle more.

“Yeah,” Joe called out to the person at the door.

“Hey,” It was Colby. “Have you see Y/N? She's not in her room.” he asked peaking his head in the door. “Becks and I wanted to let her use the bathroom before we showered.”

“Nah, man. Maybe she went for a walk or something.” Joe said smoothing his hand over his face. I did my best to lay perfectly still.

Colby obviously didn't think there was any chance I was with Joe, and he didn't look for me me in the darkened room, so he didn't notice the lump in Joe's bed.

“She can use my bathroom if she needs it.” Joe replied. “Go ahead and shower.”

“Thanks man.” Colby quickly exited.

Once he was gone, I flung the pillow off my face and into Joe's. “What do you think you're doing, baby girl?” He quirked an eyebrow as he laid next to me. We both broke out in laughter; trying to stay quiet. He leaned in for a sweet kiss, a chuckle still on his mouth. “Good morning. How did you sleep?”

I stretched my legs out, “Once I came in here, I slept well. How about you?”

“Exactly the same here.” He smiled and kissed me again. “We should try to sneak you back to your room before Colby and Becks get done with their showers.”

I snuggled closer to Joe's chest. “I don't want to leave this bed. EVER.”

I expected another chuckle, but instead he hooked a finger under my chin and raised my face to look at him. “I don't either. Trust me! but we should.” He kissed the tip of my nose.

He was right. I knew that, but I wasn't going to leave his bed without one last kiss. I looked into his big brown eyes and ran my fingers through his hair as I moved toward him for a kiss. He leaned in and placed a sweet, tender kiss on my lips that quickly turned into something much deeper, much warmer, much more passionate. I ignored the feeling of his growing appendage as it brushed my thigh.

“I gotta stop.” He pulled away breathing heavily. He paused to catch his breath. “Can we have lunch here today? Take some time to talk?” He asked. I agreed, and he got up. Throwing a shirt on, he asked, “What are you going to tell them?” He nodded toward Colby and Becky's room.

I had already thought it out. “If I can get back to my room, I'll get dressed quickly and say I just got back from running errands.”

“So we're going to start lying to our friends?” He quirked an eyebrow and I felt a pang of guilt. My friends knew I hated lying. I detested it.

“Joe,” I got up and wrapped my arms around him. “Just for a few hours until we can talk. After we talk, I've got no trouble telling Colby and Becks about this.”

“Good point.” He placed his forehead to mine. “Meet you here at noon?” I agreed.

He brushed some hair behind my shoulder. “Go get ready, baby girl, before they are out of the shower.” He peeked out the door and confirmed the hallway was empty. I quickly slipped out of his room into mine.

———————————————————————

After working out, coming back to his house and showering, Joe and I finally settled down to eat and talk. There were a few awkward moments as we tried to figure out what to say.

“I... uh... like I said last night, I'm crazy about you. I want to be together with you.” He looked unsure of how to continue.

“What do you mean “together with” me?” It was a fair question. “Are we talking about sex, a relationship or what?”

“No. Not sex.. well, yeah, I want to have sex with you....” He looked down at the floor but peeked up at me. “I mean in time...uh....” He rubbed his hand over the back of his neck “when we're ready, but I want to date you.” He finally said.

That brought a smile to my lips and he perked up a bit, looking less scared. “I want that too.” I agreed.

He reached his hand across the table and held mine. “Do..... do we tell other people?” he asked.

I thought for a second before deciding, “We don't lie.” He smiled again. “Let's just go on like we are, and if someone asks, we tell the truth.”

“Baby, I get asked if we're dating ALLLLL the time.” He smirked at me. “It doesn’t help that I can’t keep my hands off you.”

I thought I saw a hint of a blush cross his face. “Do you want to handle this another way?”

“No. I'm just sayin'. If we do it your way, the whole roster will know by the second match.” He chuckled. “I seriously get asked all the time.”

“Babe, would you say we're best friends?” I asked.

“You know it, sweetheart.” He looked questioningly at me. “Why?”

“Well, if someone asks, and you don't want to talk about our relationship, you can truthfully tell them that we are best friends.” I smiled warmly at him as I ran my thumb over his knuckles.

“Good idea.” He said smiling warmly at me. “We're going to have to tell Colby and Becks though. You know that? After the show tonight?” He asked and I agreed. He got up from his seat and came to my side. “Are you done eating?” He reached for my mostly empty plate.

“Yeah. I'm full.” I answered.

He took both of our plates to the kitchen counter and came back to grab my hand. “Feel like watching a movie?”

“That sounds great.” I answered, standing up and letting him lead me to the couch. We snuggled close as we always did, but this time it felt so much more meaningful. It wasn't unusual for us to kiss each other's hands, cheeks, temples, but this time, I got to kiss his lips... the lips I'd thought of kissing so many times before. Each kiss though started a fire in me that was hard to suppress. In time... when we're ready he'd said earlier, and he was right. We had to wait until we were both ready.... no matter how much my body ached for him.

—————————————————————————

Becky stood with her arms crossed in front of her. She had a puzzled look on her face as she stared first at Joe and then at me. “What happened after we went to bed last night?”

“Nothing.” I answered with a straight face. “Why?”

“Well, for starters, you weren't in your room this morning. Now you told me you were running errands,” she began pacing a bit, tapping her finger on her bottom lip like she was a detective at Scotland Yard about to reveal the murderer in an old movie. “but I know that you would rather have a tooth pulled than to go shopping on Black Friday. Then we get here and you two are acting all weird.” She looked to Colby who shook his head in agreement.

“Weird? How are we acting weird?” Joe asked trying to hide a smirk.

“Normally you two can't keep your hands off each other. You're always hugging or snuggling....”

Colby chimed in. “But today... I don't think I've seen you two touch at all.” He looked back at Becky prodding her to agree.

She confirmed that we hadn’t touched. “Did you two have a fight or something?” Becky asked.

“No. We're good.” I couldn't hold my smile back as much as I wanted.

“OH HOHOHOHO!” Becky proclaimed when she saw my smile. She turned to Colby. “I know what's going on here. They finally fucked.”

Colby's eyes got wide in realization as mine got wide in embarrassment. “FINALLY!” He said.

“No!” Roman nearly yelled. “It's not like that.” He said standing to come to me. He wrapped his arms around me and kissed me sweetly. “No. I just couldn't hide my feelings for her any longer.” He looked deep in my eyes. After a second, Colby's proclamation registered in his head, and he turned to his friend. “What do you mean by 'Finally'?”

“The whole company's been waiting for you two to get your heads out of your asses and admit you like each other.” Colby said nonchalantly as he started digging through his bag for something. “Wait!” He turned his gaze to me. “Were you in Ro's room this morning?” I didn't have to answer, because of the shit eating grin on both Joe and my faces. “Where were you?” He asked me.

“Next to me in bed. I covered her up with pillows.” Joe admitted.

“So, you lied to us?” Colby looked upset and Becky looked flat out mad.

“We weren't ready to tell you guys, because we hadn't had time to talk about it.” Roman tried to calm them.

“You didn't have time?” Becks asked. “How about the hours you guys spent in bed together?”

“Becks... listen... nothing happened. We both fell asleep about 5 minutes after I climbed into his bed. We decided at lunch today that we wanted to be together and that we weren't going to hide anything.”

“And we decided to tell you guys tonight after the show.” Joe added. I nodded in agreement.

“Ok. Ok. Let's back this story up. What exactly happened last night?” Colby said, and Joe told him the story.

“Man, when you went to get more wine at the end of the night, I was thanking Y/N for her help, and telling her how much I appreciate her friendship.” He ran his hand over the back of his neck. “And I just couldn't stop myself. I kissed her.” 

“Then you guys came back and said you were going to bed.” I continued the story. “We decided to go back to our own beds, but I couldn't sleep knowing Joe was so close, so I threw caution to the wind and went to snuggle with him, and we fell asleep.”

“So this morning when I came knocking?” Colby asked.

“Dude, we didn't even know what we were doing. We had kissed a few times and snuggled. That's it.”

Becky's stern face stared at me for a minute before she walked up to me. I half wondered if she was going to hit me, but instead, she wrapped her arm around my neck and pulled me into a giant hug. “I'm so happy for you.” She reached her hand out to grab Joe's hand. Colby came over to congratulate Joe, and we all ended up hugging.

Check out part 2 here!

[chloenwckobiaarchive]

Oh, absolutely! I mean, who wouldn't want to come out and search for the mysterious Benefactor if they're rumored to also be a lobster king? We'd be a hot spot for tourists and news people alike. Maybe we'd even end up on Good Morning America or 20/20 so other people could get some scoop on us. I don't have any experience with script writing per say, but I did write for Cornell's student-led newspaper, so that's something! We could just wing it, and I don't think they'd mind. You're right about that because once it gets closer and closer to those specific holidays, it's a free for all to try to get any good candy until it's on sale after everyone's been stuffed full of sugar and chocolate. Exactly! Like you go in circles and until you go back to where you started and it's been there the whole time. It makes for a good workout, though! Totally! Like it's cool to see some who their personalities as well because you don't always get to see that from them. I did enjoy having them, but it felt the same compared to the others I had. I used to have so many different kinds of pets when I was younger, it was kind of wild to think about all the ones I've had. Did you grow up with any other pets? Yes! And it'll be kind of like a trial run to see if I could really deal with having one and taking care of one. Me too, I think I'm good on befriending any AI dolls. Or any dolls for that part. I think it's going to be really fun to see everyone get dressed up, more so than the last time we've had parties and events. Ooh, I'm sure you'll get the best shots. Hey, are you excited for your birthday tomorrow?

Granted, if we've got a giant talking lobster as our leader -- or whatever you want to refer to them as -- this is going to draw in even more tourists, isn't it? I mean, everyone's going to want a piece of this. Which is fair, I get it. Good point, got any experience with script writing? Or are we just going to wing it and see what we can come up with together? It's a good time of year to stock up on candy, before the Valentine's Day and Easter rush hits, because then it turns into a major 'good luck' thing. Exactly, although I hate that sometimes, because you spend forever wandering around the store looking for it and then have a 'duh' moment when you realize it was where it should be the whole time. Right?! I love Celebrity Family Feud! It's just interesting to see how smart and clever some of the celebrities are, like you don't expect it from some of them, you know? I love it. Did you like having a lizard, or did it end up being one of those pets that was too much work in the end? Oh, good idea -- that's smart! And you can pet them and hang out with them first that way, too. You're very welcome! I think I'll be staying away from little… AI doll things wandering around. But the dance scene did make me laugh. I cannot wait to see what you turn up in. I have a feeling everyone's going to really, really knock it out of the park. I can't wait to take some artsy pictures of the event, too!

[existentialstatesofmind]

Our First Christmas

Clare: wrapped her arms around his waist and hugged him close. "Love you." She whispered. She felt validated, finally someone else thought those movies were awful and a stupid waste of time. "They won't miss me...accidentally throwing the bowl of popcorn into the air or spilling my soda on them." Clare chuckled. "I can, I always went for the big dramatic exits! Of course I regretted the decision after I fell and cut my hand. What's harder to believe is we went this long without having the horror movie talk." Obviously she'd realized they weren't Drew's favorite since he didn't push her to watch them. But it never really came up. "Aww, what do they know. You protect me. We can hide under the blanket together from now on. Your brother and Eli always had to push my limits too. I only like campy Halloween movies. Michael Myers and Chucky don't scare me." She shrugged. "Erika was scared. I don't know if that counts. She let me hug her too, and by let I mean it was her idea." Clare smiled. "Probably and she's welcome anytime. I'm on board with her staying here if Omar says no. We'd just have to be prepared for it to be temporary. Because if we get attached and they do find a family for her...there's nothing we can do about it. Right? I mean we're not licensed to foster and we can't rush into an adoption." She frowned deeply. Most people wanted babies not a four year old who'd spent most of her life in hospitals. "I hate that Erika knows the cancer is hurting her chances with some couples. She's been through hell." Clare bit her lip. Adam should be the best man. No matter who it was instead, he'd just be a stand in. "You can borrow my nephew for ring bearer." She offered. Clare didn't know if Drew had anyone in mind for that or not. But Thomas was going to be his nephew too. "The bridemaids have to be Darcy, Alli, and Jenna. Is three a good number? Or do I need more since one of them will be maid of honor?" She laughed knowing Alli would fight her sister for the title and she deserved it. "If Erika's here she can be a flower girl with Mary. I think Mary's too little to do it alone. We need to decide what time of year to get married. Then find out which dates are available." Clare smiled at Drew. She responded to the kiss and only pulled back a bit after to continue talking. "Is that so? At least let me try on one unless you think this is sexy?" She motioned to her Mrs. Claus costume. She gave him a surprised look at his question. "Yes and no. I ran out and I had the appointment so I missed a couple of pills. I haven't gotten it refilled yet because of the holidays. However, I wasn't going off them yet. If I got pregnant now...I guess we'd plan the wedding around the baby? Or if I get pregnant close to the wedding it won't matter. The problem is the inbetween..." Clare cut herself off and kissed Drew. They didn't have to worry about it tonight. She giggled because she'd planned on this room all along. It was where she'd hid the presents. Clare kissed Drew deeply and slid her hand underneath his shirt, caressing his skin. She worked on undoing his buttons and pushed the shirt off his shoulders. Clare fell back onto the bed still kissing kissing her fiance. She moaned softly as Drew kissed down her neck. She meticulously moved her hands all over his upper body. "We need to make love more often." Clare whispered, giggling softly. They did have sex a lot. Work just got in the way sometimes. She moved her hand down to his trousers, and started to tug at the zipper.

Drew: laughed when Clare mentioned "accidentally" spilling her popcorn and soda. "Bee never let me hold the popcorn for that reason, I would jump and spill it everywhere." he laughed a bit, then smiled when she mentioned them hiding together. "We can just invite them here if you want and the two of us can hide in a blanket fort. I don't do Chucky. Seen it at the age of 4, woke up with a Chucky doll in my bed and I freaked out. My uncle found out after and hid Chucky dolls everywhere. There were even robot Chuckys that chased me around the house. He's a robotics expert and it wasn't just me he did that with. It was all of us, my cousin Chelsie is 30 and still terrified of the dark and being alone because of him. We all hated his house, but we rioted against him when Adam entered the family. Adam had liked horror so he took the lead, we all followed. He showed us parts of Clockwork Orange and the Shining that we're really scary to teach us what to do and how to do it. I dressed as Alex from Clockwork Orange and my twin cousins dressed as the twins from the shining. We created our own torture chamber to get even with him. He now resides in a mental institute." he shrugged. "But I'm still afraid of Chucky." he stated honestly, he didn't think he'd ever get over that fear. Hearing Clare talk about Erika being scared caused Drew to smile. "That counts. In the hospital when she had to do something she was scared of such as needles, there was a nurse there when my mom or myself weren't there since she hugged us while getting it, she wouldn't hug the nurse she'd hug her bear instead. The fact that she chose you over her bear means something." he assured her. Hearing Clare talk about keeping Erika with them if Omar said no caused him to smile. "We could probably foster her, if Omar says no. If you like I can look into it and maybe meet with someone. The chances of her getting adopted are slim, sadly. Not many can afford to care for her like we can so we have that going for her, plus you survived cancer too which will help you bond with her as well as get them to let us foster her and if it comes down to it, adopt her in the future." he shrugged. "So get attached if you want, I'm already attached to her and she's already attached to my mom and I." he smiled and kissed her head. When she started to talk about their wedding, he smiled. "No three's perfect and tradition. Just make one your maid of honor and two bridesmaids. My best man is actually Adam. Chelsie said she'd make a life size cardboard cut out of him to stand besides me. She'll be a groomsman next to him and will hold the ring, after that is my cousin Charley. I haven't seen him in ages, but when he found out I needed a groomsman he called up and offered. He said he'll be here regardless of the wedding and will take time off work. He doesn't really take vacation time so he has months saved up and I would love Thomas to be my ring bear." he explained with a smile. When Clare mentioned lingerie, he smiled at her. "It's too time consuming. You'd have to put it on and then I'd take it off you, whereas I can already take off your Mrs. Clause costume." he smiled at her. He listened to her talk and kissed her when she kissed him. "What in between?" he asked between kisses knowing it confused him. His lips never left hers as she kissed him while undoing his shirt. His hands immediately going to the zipper on the back of her costume and undoing it just before she laid on the bed. He smiled breaking the kiss as he stood up and looked down at her. "This needs to go." he breathed as he started to remove her clothing, then kissed her more. "We do need to make love more often and in more places." he smiled and started to kiss down her body. His lips moved from her neck to her voluptuous breasts and he circled his tongue around her nipple while his hand made its way between her legs and over the fabric of her panties.