#now i’m just thinking about what a beautiful idea having an engagement ring with your partner’s birthstone in it is

[norrisainz33]

golden || ls18

☆ summary: lance and his long term partner and actress, y/n, attend the golden globes

☆ pairing: lance stroll x actress!reader

☆ fc & warnings: zendaya & none

☆ a/n: shorter one bc i was inspired by zendaya and the big ring she was wearing last night hehe also lance has been moving me lately

ﾟ. ✿ ୨❤︎୧⠀✿ . ﾟ

ynuser has posted a story

view all story replies

user1: tuning in for you only

user2: i can’t wait to see what you wear!!! you are going to shine like always

lance_stroll: my beautiful gorgeous girl

ynuser: my sweet precious boy

lance_stroll: hoping on the plane now! should be there in a few hours.

ynuser: wonderful! thank you for coming all the way out to la baby - i know things are busy for you these days

lance_stroll: you are always my first priority y/n/n and this is a big deal ❤️

ynuser: i am so lucky to call you mine lancey

lance_stroll: i’m the lucky one 😘

yourbff: i’m so excited for you my love

ynuser: and i’m so excited to see you soon 🫶🏻

user22: people died!!! (me i’m people)

chloestroll: yayyyy!!! you’re my favorite superstar!!

ynuser: chloe 🥹

user3: MOTHER!!!

lance_stroll has posted multiple stories

view all story replies

user2: the prettiest princess to ever princess

user8: when i show up to a who loves y/n most contest and ur there 🙄

astonmartinf1: make sure you send us all the pictures possible. can’t have our man stepping out without posting about it 😮‍💨

lance_stroll: don’t worry admin - you’ll get them before anyone else does!

user87: just casually showing up with bouquets and dior… oh to be a wag 😭

ynuser: reunited and it feels so good ❤️

lance_stroll: nothing beats being with you darling 🤍

user12: happy for you (i’m single and jealous)!

chloestroll: give my girl a hug for me

lance_stroll: you got it 😘

user9: your commitment to be at every event of hers is truly the sweetest thing

ynuser has posted to their private story

view all story replies

yourbff: girl call me wtf

yourbff: DONT LEAVE ME ON READ IK YOURE JUSY GETTING YOUR HAIR DONE RN YOU CAN CALL ME

ynuser: CALLING NOW CHILLLLL

yourbff: OMG BESTIE IM SCREAING AT THE TOP OF MY LUNGS

ynuser: 😂😂😂😂 i can hear you all the way from la

yourbff: this is one of the best days of my life fr

ynuser: s a m e girl

estebanocon: mon ami what happened?

ynuser: lance will call you shortly my dear friend ❤️

lance_stroll: 🤭

ynuser: eeeeeeek i love you

lance_stroll: i love you to the moon and back

flavy.barla: cryptic? but also give your little puppy a kiss from me mon ange 😘

ynuser: are you and estie together? if so, expect a call sooooooonnn!!!! also puppy says they miss you

flavy.barla: omg yes we are together!

flavy.barla: y/n/n! i’m still crying im so excited for you two you have no idea

chloestroll: HEHEHEHEH

ynuser: sisssyyyyyyyyy

ynuser has posted to their story

view all story replies

user2: GORGEOUS????

user18: is it just me or are you showing off that ring in like a …… it’s more than just an accessory way

yourbff: how is it that everything looks perfect on you?

ynuser: stop ittttt 😭

flavy.barla: stunning, beautiful, perfect! not a single note

ynuser: thank you flavy 🫶🏻

f1gossip: now y/n/n…. is that what we think it is?

lance_stroll: genuinely speechless. how does one get so beautiful?

ynuser: lots and lots of makeup

lance_stroll: oh stop! its natural

user19: foaming at the mouth

madelyncline: begging you to style me. i wanna be like you when i grow up 😩

ynuser: your wish is my command 🙌🏻

user34: you never miss

user21: s2g that’s an engagement ring

mclarenf1: nice color dress 🤭

F1Gossip has made a post

liked by user1, user2, user3, user4, user5, user6, user7 and 12,643 others

f1gossip: actress, y/n y/l/n, attended the golden globes last tonight with long term partner and our very own, Lance Stroll, sporting a rather large diamond ring on her left hand. when asked by a reporter if the ring on her finger was an engagement ring, all she did was give a coy smile and a shrug before changing the subject. looks like wedding bells are ringing for one of our favorite duos!!

view all comments

user2: first of all - y/n is radiant. second of all - i’m so glad these 2 are end game i love them

user6: how lance bagged this baddie will forever be beyond me

user28: he’s a good man savannah

user12: happy for them (i’m crying my eyes out)

user44: a little commotion for the dress my god

user33: all i can think abt is how it’s papaya

user9: now that is a ROCK! making my partner take notes

user4: my shot is with y/n is now GONE

user22: what do i have to do to get myself a billionaire to give me the biggest ring i’ve ever seen in my whole life

user35: no fr asking for a friend

user11: no lance!!!! that’s MY girl!!!

user9: i’d put a ring on that too if i was him

lance_stroll has made a post

liked by astonmartinf1, ynuser, estabanocon, hugoboss, yourbff, fernandoalo_oficial, and 540,928 others

lance_stroll: had the best evening with the most beautiful girl to have ever graced a red carpet. thanks for having me goldenglobes and thanks to hugoboss for the magnificent suit.

view all comments

user18: we got a lance post before gta6

user22: missed him dearly

astonmartinf1: that’s our driver 🤩

user34: that old money hotness is real

fernandoalo_oficial: looking good!

ynuser: magnificent suit indeed 😍

lance_stroll: maybe i should wear them more often

ynuser: yes please 😩

user3: don’t think i didn’t notice the big ring on y/n’s hand. care to explain lance?

chloestroll: two of my most favorite people 🥹

user24: seething with jealousy

estebanocon: cleaned up real nice mon ami

lance_stroll: merci esteban 🤍

user28: i am down so catastrophically bad. i cant decide which one of you i want more

ynuser has made a post

liked by lance_stroll, landonorris, yourbff, sabrinacarpenter, astonmartinf1, glenpowell, and 980,285 others

ynuser: it’s all in the details

view all comments

landonorris: cool papaya dress

ynuser: it’s orange mate

landonorris: close enough! thanks for being a fan 🧡

user99: this is all but confirmation honestly

sabrinacarpenter: i think i might be in love with you

ynuser: well thank god the feelings are mutual 😭

user12: there’s not a single red carpet where you don’t devour

lance_stroll: you have one new really good detail

ynuser: i do yeah! someone special picked it out for me

lance_stroll: well they certainly did a good job

ynuser: the best job some might say!

mclarenf1: currently fangirling! don’t mind us

astonmartinf1: back!!! back i said!!! 🤺

user13: the squeal i just let out

flavy.barla: reject me so i can move on already 😭

ynuser: i have no interest in rejecting you!!! lets run away tg instead

estebanocon: only if lance and i can run away together without you then

flavy.barla: fine by me!

lance_stroll: wow 🙄

user88: my 2 favorite people just got engaged no one speak to me

ﾟ. ✿ ୨❤︎୧⠀✿ . ﾟ

a/n: thanks for reading!! likes and reblogs appreciated 🤍

ﾟ. ✿ ୨❤︎୧⠀✿ . ﾟ

disclaimer: pictures are not mine and everything i write is fiction

© norrisainz33 || please do not rewrite, translate, or copy any of my works posted here on to any other platform

[miley1442111]

admitting- b.floyd

----------------------

----------------------

a/n: i got this idea from the comments of my last post with ranch! bob floyd so thank you to @nerdgirljen for planting this idea in my head!

summary: how bob finally gets what he wants

pairing: ranch! bob floyd x reader

warnings: SMUT 18+, breeding kink, slight praise and degradation kink, unprotected piv, talk of cum (i think that's it?)

----------------------

He’d had the dream again. He was a dad. You two had a baby girl and boy, twins. He was playing with them out in the field and you were by the picnic blanket, pregnant in one of your gorgeous sundresses. 

Fuck he wanted it so bad. 

He got out of your shared bed and walked downstairs, grabbing himself a cold cup of water. He chugged it down as his mind raced, thinking about your kids, how beautiful you’d look pregnant, how much he wanted to get you pregnant and-

Oh. Bob was hard. 

This had been an increasingly common issue in recent months, essentially since you two moved onto the ranch and got engaged. You both had chosen that you’d wait until after the wedding to start trying, since you wanted to have the wedding, a nice honeymoon, and a few months alone as newlyweds without kids or pregnancy to spoil your fun. 

If Bob had it his way? You’d already be pregnant. Since moving to Texas and with the summer was fast-approaching, you usually opt for sundresses, long skirts and breezy tops, or shorts with one of his light hoodies. Some days, you'd forego clothes all together and just walk around in a swimsuit or just your bra and panties.

It was driving him mad. Everyday, you looked so fucking good he could barely keep it in his pants. You two fucked like rabbits, in the morning, in the afternoon, and at night. But every time you did, the dreaded question of ‘do you have a condom?’ would dampen his fantasy. He didn’t mind, trust me, it’s just he knew how good you’d look with his kid inside of you, his marks on your neck, and his ring on your finger. 

“Are you thinking about it again?” you asked sleepily, leaning against him.

Bob’s face turned pink. He’d been caught, but how did you know? “Well baby… yeah.”

“I’m so excited,” you smiled and kissed his cheek. “It’s going to be amazing.”

Bob turned around from his position of leaning on the counter. His arms wrapped around you with his hands smoothing up your back and his lips finding yours in a sweet kiss. “Yeah, I can’t wait to be parents.”

Your head snapped up and looked at him quizzically. “What?”

Of course that wasn’t what you meant. He doesn’t exactly bring up his sexual fantasies that often, and when he does it’s usually just to do it raw, or from the back. He’s a pretty vanilla guy, but don’t get me wrong, it’s amazing. 

He stuttered his way through half a sentence before you cut him off. “I want to be a mom too.” 

He smiled at you. “Yeah?”

“Yeah.” Your wedding was 4 weeks away, what’s the worst that could happen?

“And I want you to fuck a baby into me,” you whispered seductively and Bob’s brain short circuited. 

“Really?” he asked as you pulled his top up and over his head, kissing his neck. 

“Please Bob,” you begged and he knew he couldn’t say no. 

He grabbed your waist and turned the position around, now your back was against the counter and he was pulling off your clothes, leaving you bare in front of him. “Walkin’ around everyday in those damn sundresses, just waitin’ for me to fuck a baby into you, weren’t you?” he kissed up and down your neck as he groped you all over. 

You moaned at his words alone. When you two had sex, his accent came out a lot more, which was a definite turn-on for you. 

“I asked a question honey,” he stopped his kisses and delivered a soft smack to your ass. 

“Yes! Yes! Always for you! All for you!” you whined and he smirked. One thing no one would even truly understand was that, while he was the perfect gentleman outside of your bedroom (or kitchen counter, or bathtub, or couch, or stables, or car, or plane- yes it happened, but only once) he was down-right depraved in bed. His hands grabbed anywhere, his lips were all over your skin, and his dick? He was huge. 

“Good girl,” he cooed and you could feel yourself getting wetter. “My good girl, right?” You moaned out an incoherent agreement and his finger ran through your folds. “So wet for me, yeah?”

“All for you,” you whined. “Please I-I want it-” Your begging was lost in your throat as you felt his dick pushing in. The entire length of it was shocking, and the girth was something you’d never get used to. 

“Fuck,” he cursed. “You’re such a good girl, letting me take you like this, on the kitchen counter,” he cooed as he started to slowly move, wrapping his hand over your chin to turn you so he could watch you. His other hand landed on your hip, kneading the skin there. “You gonna’ let me fuck a baby into you?”

You nodded furiously as you moaned into his hand. “Please, I want it-”

“Be patient honey, you’ll get what you want,” he smirked. 

He picked up the pace as you screamed and moaned his name, something he’d never get enough of. Your voice as you screamed out in pleasure, as he was giving you that pleasure, he’d never stop loving it. 

“Bob! Bob, I-I’m close!” you whined. “Please don’t stop-”

“I’m not stoppin’ ‘till I put a baby in you,” he groaned and he felt your walls clamp down on him as you came, squirting all over his cock. He came with you. But he pushed himself and you through overstimulation and continued fucking you. His finger circled your over-sensitive clit, his cock was snapping in and out of you at a godly pace, and his cum shooting into you again, triggered another orgasm. 

He pulled out and plugged it with his finger, kissing you sweetly. “I don’t want you to waste any of it, yeah?”

You just nodded your head, to fucked out to even respond. 

“Good girl,” he smiled. “You’re going to be such a pretty momma,” he smirked as he slowly pumped his fingers into you, fucking his cum deeper into you. You leaned against the counter as he fingered you to another orgasm, spewing lines like “my perfect girl, ye’ gonna give me a baby?” and “Gonna look so beautiful pregnant with my kids,” and your personal favourite; “God you’re my whore, lettin’ me come inside like that.”

You came a lot that night. 

----------------------

He carried you back up to bed, dressed, and cleaned you up, then planted a soft kiss on your forehead as you fell asleep on his chest. 

Maybe he should admit his sexual fantasies more often. 

And maybe he should start painting the nursery.

----------------------

navigation for my blog :) (criminal minds, obx, the bear, marvel, top gun, the hunger games, challengers :)

topgun masterlist :) (requests open!)

[halsteadlover]

Haunted

*Gif not mine credits to the owner*

• Pairing: Jay Halstead x Female!Reader.

• Requested by @lelaartt: So reader and Jay are engaged, her working as a nurse in the ICU. She gets followed by a stranger on her way home for couple of occasions (She doesn't tell anyone) as the stranger becames a main suspect in case that intelligence is dealing with. Jay completelly worried about her safety and she tells him about the stranger following her for couple of weeks.

• Warnings: stalking, cursing, blood, description of violence, brief mention of killing and rape. (Let me know if I missed something).

• Word count: 9530.

• A/N: I know this is a long ass fic and I’m so sorry please don’t come at me 😭. I’m kinda nervous because I really don’t vibe with the fic but I really hope it turned out okay. Let me know what you think and reblog, comment and like if you want. ❤️ thank you again for your support, forever grateful for it. Sending lots of love to you all xx

Your hospital shift was nothing short of exhausting.

That day there were three hospitalizations in the ICU due to a terrible accident that happened in the afternoon. Three patients, all of them brain dead. The ward was short-staffed and it was just you and another nurse, Amanda, on that shift so dealing with these three new patients, along with the other ones, was really exhausting.

After closing your locker, you removed the necklace where you hung the ring and slipped it onto the ring finger of your left hand, which you did at the end of each shift. You didn't want to risk losing it during work, you’d never forgive yourself for it so you just carried it around your neck during the shifts. You looked at it for a moment with a smile on your lips thinking back to the day Jay asked you to marry him.

You took your cell phone from the pocket of your uniform and, as you walked towards the exit, bag on your shoulders, you noticed various texts from Jay, the last one dating back to a couple of minutes prior.

From Fiancée 💍, 7:17 pm

Baby we're still dealing with a difficult case, I think I'll be late tonight. Please let me know when you get home. I love you endlessly. Be careful.

From Fiancée 💍, 7:55 pm

Baby? Are you okay?

From Fiancée 💍, 8.21 pm

Should I send a patrol to the hospital? You know I'll do it love.

You chuckled not doubting about that, you knew he would. Jay had always been very protective of you, which you wouldn't admit but loved it madly. You loved he cared about you, so much he’d leave everything and everyone to come to you if you asked him to.

From you, 8.27 pm

I'm sorry love, it's been a hard shift and I just picked up my cell phone. I'm going home now. How are you? When will you finish? You’ll come home soon, right?

You left the hospital and started walking home. It was late spring and the temperatures were finally starting to warm up a bit, allowing you to finally breathe fresh air. You really needed it after a whole day of smelling the hospital and disinfectants.

Your cell phone started ringing following a call.

“Hi baby! You really miss me that much, don’t you?” You begin, bringing your cell phone to your ear, a smile on your lips.

“I always miss you, you know that,” your fiancée answered on the other end of the phone. “Are you walking home?”.

“Yes, it's a beautiful evening and I felt like walking.”

Jay sighed. “Baby you know I don't like the idea of you walking alone in the dark, you could’ve taken a taxi or waited for me to pick you up.”

“Oh come on Jay, what’s gonna happen. I'll be home in twenty minutes,” you retorted “Where are you?”.

“I'm still in the district baby, I have to finish writing a case report and then I'm finally leaving,” you heard some noise in the background but you couldn't figure out what he was doing.

Jay continued to keep you company on the phone, refusing to leave you completely alone even though you'd insisted that he finish work so he'd get back to you soon.

You asked him about his day and he started telling you what he had done as you listened to him carefully, asking him a few questions from time to time when you didn't quite understand something. You bumped into a person and quickly mumbled an apology before walking on, quickly glancing at the man who reassured you not to worry.

“Everything okay baby?” Jay asked.

“Yeah, yeah, I got distracted and bumped into a guy, no big deal. What were you saying?”.

Suddenly an unease feeling went through your body. You tried to let it go, thinking it was just a figment of your imagination.

You clasped your hand around your purse, quickly picking up your pace when you began to hear footsteps behind you.

They were so loud you seemed to hear them only a few feet away from you.

You turned around and stopped in your tracks, looking around for a few seconds before letting out a sigh of relief.

There was no one walking behind you.

Your heart was pounding and anxiety was eating up your stomach and you forgot for a moment you were on the phone with Jay.

Stay calm, you're just tired.

“Baby? You still there?” Jay's voice brought you back to reality. “Oh yeah, sorry, I couldn’t hear you anymore.” You answered. You didn't want to make him worry about your simple and stupid feeling, you knew if you told him you had the impression someone was following you he would’ve rushed to you and acted like the world was about to end.

You were sure it was just the fatigue speaking, but your senses remained alert until you got to your apartment. You took a shower while you waited for Jay to come back home, ordering food since you knew neither of you would feel like cooking.

You were about to lower the blinds in your bedroom window when, glancing outside, you noticed a figure standing on the sidewalk in front of you.

It was too dark for you to make out who it was and for a few moments you stood paralyzed, your eyes fixed on that dark figure, trying to figure out if it was just a hallucination.

The noise of the front door opening and closing made you jump in place, nearly giving you a heart attack.

You took your eyes off that figure for just a second.

Just for a moment.

And it was no longer there.

You ran your hands over your face in frustration, letting out a deep sigh at the same time before walking over to Jay, deciding you were going to ignore it and just needed a good night's sleep.

-

The following days went on quietly and the strange episode that happened a few nights before passed into oblivion. But that was before something else weird made your skin crawl.

“Are you sure you don't want me to drive you to work babe?” Jay asked you as he planted numerous kisses on your lips, making you smile between them. It was morning and you were both in the doorway, your arms around his chest as you both struggled to pull away.

“I'm positive baby, just think about resting okay? I’ll see you tonight.”

He cupped his hands over your face, giving you one last long, sweet kiss on your lips. “I'll have dinner ready for you. You be careful. I love you so much.”

“I love you more.“

The day went on peacefully. You had to work a double shift in the hospital as the nurse on the afternoon shift was sick and had to take over her place.

You loved your job, you really did. There was nothing else you would’ve done in your life but sometimes you couldn't deny how difficult and tiring it was.

“Y/N, sweetie!” You heard the voice of your colleague, Becca, calling you from a patient’s room you'd just passed. You sighed, recognizing the tone she used when she needed something.

You took a few steps back, looking into the room and noticing Becca intent on changing the unconscious patient's dressing.

“Becca I was about to leave, why do you still want to torture me?” You whined and she rolled her eyes. “Please help me change these dressings. Pretty please, I can't wait to leave too.”

She put on the sweetest puppy face she was capable of and for the second time you sighed and rolled your eyes. You ended up disinfecting your hands, putting on a pair of gloves and helping her to change the patient’s dressings.

By the time you finished you were dead tired and couldn't wait to get back to Jay and sleep, you probably would’ve just run away if anyone else had asked you any other favor. For this reason, you practically flew out of the hospital after saying goodbye to your colleagues.

It was particularly cold that evening and you found yourself rubbing your hands on your arms in an attempt to get some warmth. Thank God you took the car that day.

You walked over to your car and grabbed the keys from your bag. Before unlocking it, you noticed an object resting on the windshield, held on it by the wiper. You furrowed your eyebrows when you realized it was a rose.

A black rose.

What the fuck?

There was no card attached to it, just the rose.

Your heartbeat began to accelerate and anxiety took over you. You tried to keep calm and not freak out since there was definitely an explanation why someone had to put a damn black rose on your car.

Maybe they were wrong, maybe it was for another person and they got mixed up with the cars.

Who the hell gives a black rose though?

Your eyes scanned the parking lot around you but you didn't notice anyone suspicious or anyone nearby watching you, before dropping the rose on the asphalt, trying not to think about it. There was definitely a mistake.

The car ride was strange.

You couldn't shake the feeling something was wrong. You kept looking in the rear view mirror to notice if there were any cars following you, you were probably just getting paranoid but you couldn't keep yourself calm.

When you parked in your usual spot once you got back home, that feeling of discomfort hadn't disappeared, on the contrary, it had increased.

The streetlights hadn't been turned on yet and it was dark enough outside so distinguishing objects or people was pretty hard.

After locking the car you were about to enter the apartment building when your gaze fell on the sidewalk in front of you.

You didn't know if it was just your imagination, but you swore there was someone standing, exactly in front of you and, despite the darkness, you were sure they were watching you.

You couldn't figure out who that person was, only that he was a man.

Your breath caught in your chest as you realized it was the same figure you'd spotted a few days earlier from your bedroom window.

The silence was almost deafening, making everything more frightening and suggestive.

Your muscles were paralyzed as your eyes seemed to be glued to that man.

Suddenly he moved and your heart almost stopped beating.

But when you saw him go away, that was the last thing you expected.

He did nothing, just walked away.

You tried to explain what was happening in your mind. Maybe it was just a coincidence, that man was there for another reason and you had nothing to do with it.

You let out a sigh you didn't realize you were holding and quickly entered the apartment building, rushing to your home where you found Jay on the couch watching a show.

That rose left you with a feeling of anxiety that you couldn't get rid of easily, also caused by that figure you saw standing in front of you. You didn't immediately tell Jay, you didn't want to worry him since you already knew how he’d react and he’d worry to death and go crazy about it.

You just wanted to be sure that something’s happening before alarming him.

But, knowing you like the back of his hand, he immediately sensed there was something strange, that something was bothering you. You tried to convince him otherwise, that you were just awfully tired after working a double shift at the hospital.

“Baby, really, I'm fine. I'm just dead tired,” you said for the hundredth time since you'd set foot inside the house.

“Are you sure? You know you can talk to me. Did someone upset you? Did something happen at work?” He kept going, thumb and forefinger under your chin to keep your head up and make you look into his eyes. Your hands slid under his shirt, caressing his chest as you placed your lips on his, trying to distract him.

“No baby, nobody did anything. Seriously, nothing happened,” you muttered against his lips, “I just missed my fiancé like hell.” You bit his bottom lip and he hissed, his breathing suddenly heavy. “Do you want to take a shower with me?”.

“Fuck yeah,” Jay had said before crashing his mouth on yours and kissing your breath away. His tongue explored every corner of your mouth as his lips moved masterfully with yours. His hands went down your body and he bent slightly before reaching your thighs, pressing his fingers against your skin and urging you to jump into his arms.

You wrapped your legs around his waist and your arms around his neck meanwhile he carried you to the bathroom, never letting go of you. As he kicked the door open, you found yourself completely lost in him, the rest of the world vanishing and all negative thoughts forgotten.

However this sensation of bliss was destined to vanish.

In the following days the feeling that was tormenting you didn’t disappear, instead it only got worse.

You started to sense someone was constantly following you and watching you, that every time you walked in the middle of the street there was someone behind you even if every time you turned around there was no one.

After finding that rose on your car, this kept happening and almost every night for two weeks a rose would appear on your windshield.

Jay knew something was wrong, you weren't acting normally anymore.

You were always jumpy, any sudden noise made you almost have a heart attack, even if you were cooking and he suddenly hugged you from behind you’d be scared to death.

Needless to say Jay asked you a million times what was going on, what was it that was bothering you so much but you didn't want to bother him. You didn't want to upset him, make him worry about some stupid feeling of yours, not when his work was already haunting him enough.

Maybe deep down you were hoping whoever was leaving you those roses would stop and eventually leave you alone.

One evening you went out with your friends, on one of your rare days off, to try to keep your mind occupied and to catch up with them since you didn't always have the opportunity because of your hectic job.

Between laughter, jokes, chatting and various cocktails, the evening went on normally and by 1:00 am each one of you went back home. You headed towards your car, parked not far from the bar where you had all met together, calm and happy for the first time in weeks.

However, this feeling of calmness faded the instant your gaze fell on a damn black rose sitting on your windshield, again.

A wave of anger took over you.

You were tired, so damn tired of this little game that whoever it was was playing against you.

Who the hell was this person? What the fuck did they want from you? Why were they targeting you?

Whoever that person was they following you, they knew what you were doing, who you were with, and it scared the shit out of you as well as infuriating you.

You tore all the petals off that rose that would haunt you forever before throwing it angrily on the asphalt and getting into the car. You started it and quickly drove away from there, intending to go home immediately.

You wanted Jay, you wanted your fiancée. You wanted to hug him, feeling safe again in his arms and forget about all that shit that was going on.

As soon as you got home, however, your heart skipped a beat when you saw Jay laying on the sofa, asleep. The TV was on and he had his cell phone resting on his stomach, holding it close in case you called him. A smile was born on your lips and for an instant all negative thoughts flew away as your attention focused on the sleeping figure on the couch.

You leaned towards him, leaving a sweet little kiss on his forehead, also gently stroking his hair with your left hand. He stirred in his sleep and opened his eyes at the same instant, looking around before looking at you, a sigh of relief to see you were back home safe and sound.

“I’m sorry I woke you up baby,” you whispered, kissing his forehead again “Let's go to bed so you can sleep again.”

He mumbled something you couldn’t catch and rubbed his eyes before flashing a smile that nearly made your knees buckle. He nodded and then stood up, stretching his arms before pulling you into a hug. “How are you my love? Did you have fun?”.

The memory of that rose returned to your mind but for some reason, seeing his eyes so red and tired, you decided not to worry him about it and you’d talk to him about it the following morning.

“Mmh,” you muttered nodding your head “I really had fun, we needed this girls night out even though I missed you a lot.”

He chuckled, placing his hands on your face and giving you a kiss on the lips. “I’m glad darling, you deserved it since you’re working so hard lately. And I missed you so much more,” he kissed you again “Come on, let's go to sleep now.”

But that night you couldn't sleep given the thousands of thoughts that were going through your head. You couldn't help but think who would do something like that, what the hell those roses meant. Was there anyone who had it in for you? Did you do something to someone? Maybe an angry patient?

You thought again and again about who could be doing this but none occurred to you. Jay told you about his cases so many times you knew that whoever did this was doing it to torture you, to keep you on your toes, to make you live in fear.

And the fact they were succeeding was infuriating you.

Fear turned into pure terror when, while checking your cell phone, you noticed a text from an unknown number.

So pretty. Can’t wait to meet you.

How did they get your number?

You were so immersed in your thoughts you didn't notice it was morning and that Jay had woken up in the meantime. He literally jumped out of bed when you told him the time after he asked you, realizing he was late. You had the afternoon shift so you didn't have to worry about getting ready for quite a while longer.

“Baby can I talk to you about something?” You had asked him, not being able to hold it in anymore even though you knew you picked up the worst time to do it.

How smart were you for wanting to talk to him about something so delicate as he was hurring to get dressed and going to work? Not much.

“Can you tell me about it later? I'm so sorry, but I'm super late…” he replied frantically as he ran from one part of the room to another looking for the keys. He stopped for a moment in front of you, placing his hands on your face, analyzing your features. “Is it something important though? If…”

You shook his head, placing your hands on his chest and giving him a reassuring smile even if anxiety was making you nauseous. “No, it's not urgent baby. I'll tell you tonight. Now go.”

He smiled at you and made sure to leave you a long, sweet kiss on your lips before saying goodbye and literally flying out of the front door.

It could wait, right?

You tried to keep yourself busy all morning, cleaning every corner of your apartment and keeping your mind from the negative thoughts.

You couldn't deny the slightest noise made you jump, even when you accidentally dropped something on the floor. You hated this feeling, you hated having to be afraid in your own home, you hated whoever was doing this to you, you hated them so fucking much.

You nearly jumped for joy when you realized it was time to get ready for work, the thought that for few hours you'd be safe made you especially happy to go to the hospital.

You took a shower before quickly putting on your uniform and packing your bag. You checked that everything you needed was there, house and car keys and hospital locker keys, a bottle of water, tissues, tampons, some snacks, pepper spray and a small knife. Jay had forced you to carry them around constantly, asserting you could never be too safe and he’d be comfortable with the thought you had something to protect you in case of need, and never as then as then you were grateful to him.

Once you left the apartment, you made sure you locked the door at least three times. The anxiety that had been living with you for weeks was now gripping your stomach, forcing you to constantly look around and keeping you alert to any individual passing by you.

You forcefully clutched your purse to you, walking briskly to your car and unlocking before climbing in and locking yourself inside. You let out a breath you didn't realize you were even holding as your eyes continued to scan the perimeter for any type of threat.

Did you already mention how much you hated this?

“It's okay Y/N, it's okay, just take it easy,” you whispered to yourself, taking a deep breath before putting on your seat belt and starting the car.

As you drove to the hospital you couldn't help but constantly look at the rear view mirror, almost as if you expected someone to be following you but they weren't, there was no car that you repeatedly noticed behind you.

Your cell phone started ringing and you took it from inside your bag, not taking your eyes off the road. Without even looking who it was, imagining for a moment it was Jay, you answered.

“Hello?”.

The smile on your lips instantly disappeared when instead of a voice you started to hear a heavy sigh, almost a pant.

“Hello?”.

You took the phone away from your ear and glanced at the screen, noting that it wasn't Jay, or anyone else you knew, but an unknown ID.

“Who is this?” You continued, hoping whoever it was would answer and maybe you'd recognize the voice. The person on the other end of the phone just kept sighing heavily, making your heart beat so hard you thought you were about to have a heart attack at any moment.

“What the fuck do you want from me?! Leave me alone!” You screamed, in the grip of fear, anxiety and anger that this person was forcing you to suffer. You closed the call and threw the cell phone on the passenger seat, not caring if it had bumped into something or was broken.

Your vision began to blur with tears fearing for your safety. They had your number. They knew where you lived. What kept them from taking you and killing you?

Your hands were shaking on the wheel as you parked at the hospital, palms sweaty. Your heart was still pounding and there wasn't a muscle in your body that didn't shake like your hands.

You took a few minutes to compose yourself, not wanting to cause questions from colleagues about the reason of your emotional state.

You took a few deep breaths and wiped your tears away, constantly telling yourself that everything was fine, that you'd be fine, that no one could hurt you in the hospital.

You never felt the need to have Jay with you like then. God you were stupid, so fucking stupid for not telling him about all of this before, for keeping everything inside you and hoping it’d eventually just go away, for underestimating what was happening. You were being stalked.

You texted him, telling him you'd arrived at the hospital and asking how his day was going, determined to tell him about the person who was stalking you as soon as you got off work.

You never thought you'd say it but you were never as glad you had a hard shift as you were that afternoon. Four patients arrived, one after suffering a stroke, two from a car accident and another after falling from the roof of his house.

The entire shift consisted of you and your colleagues running back and forth across the ward, treating patients, resuscitating them after one of them went into cardiac arrest twice. Your mind was focused on nothing but your patients and in treating them, everything else was left out of the hospital. You wouldn't let whoever was stalking you ruin your job, ever.

At the end of the shift there was no need to say you were dead tired and couldn't wait to go to sleep and although it was only 8:00 pm, the lack of sleep of the night before starting to take a toll on you.

As you placed your stethoscope in the locker and grabbed your bag, you removed your engagement ring from the chain around your neck and putted it on your finger. Your cell phone rang following a text notification and your heart skipped a beat for an instant.

The anxiety, which you managed to not to think about during the afternoon, returned stronger than ever to grip your stomach and for a moment you considered to throw the phone away.

But you thought it’d Jay and when you realized that it was indeed him, you breathed a sigh of relief. He said he'd be late that night because of a particularly difficult case and to let him know when you'd be done and went back home.

You tried to hide your sorrow, not wanting to be alone, especially in that situation.

You quickly typed a text back, asking him what he’d like for dinner, and put your cell phone in your bag. You said goodbye to your colleagues and walked towards the hospital exit.

You took a deep breath, praying to God to go home safe and sound.

Although spring had arrived it was particularly cold that evening due to the wind blowing and you cursed yourself for not bringing a jacket with you.

You walked, actually, almost ran to your car.

Anxiety was eating you alive and your heart was pounding, fear flowing like a river through your veins.

After taking the keys from your bag and unlocked the car, you quickly looked around, a sigh of relief leaving your lips when you saw no one was around you.

But suddenly the keys fell out of your hands as a slimy hand placed over your mouth and an arm around your hips.

Your bag fell to the ground as you began to squirm in an attempt to free yourself from whoever grabbed you.

Adrenaline coursed through your veins as the fear of dying made you fight like never before.

You screamed, your throat burning, even though because of the hand your scream came out muffled.

“Stop fighting it, it had to happen sooner or later, you knew it was going to happen sweetie,” A man's voice came hoarsely to your ears and you suppressed a gag.

You managed to hit his side with your elbow, hard enough to loosen his grip on you and you tried to push him away with all the strength you had in your body.

“You fucking whore!”.

You threw yourself to get the car keys on the asphalt but the man was faster than you and grabbed your arm, pressing his fingers into your skin with such force you were sure they’d leave a mark.

A searing, stinging pain radiated up your face as his fist hit you full-on, knocking you to the ground. You put your hands forward to try to cushion the fall, but it caused you scratches and minor lacerations on both your forearms.

“We're meant to be. I know you want it. I saw it.”

You glanced at him and almost fainted when after few seconds your recognized him.

You had already met him. He was the guy you bumped into two weeks ago.

What the fuck?!

He tried to grab your wrists but before forcing you to get up, you managed to kick him in his genital area, using all the strength you had in your body. A sound of pure pain escaped his mouth and he backed away, leaning forward and gripping the sore area with his hands.

You took advantage of that moment of weakness to get off the asphalt. You weren't going to let him hurt you, not anymore.

You grabbed his black hair in two fists and you didn't care about the damage you would’ve caused him, you didn't care you were a nurse, that you were supposed to be the one to treat people and not hurt them, but you kneed him in his face and the horrible noise his bones made, suggested you most likely broke his nose.

You pushed him to the ground, ignoring the way he grunted in pain and the blood pouring profusely from his nose, kicking him in the stomach with such force that even you were stunned.

You never fought in your entire life, never kicked anyone or punched someone, you hated the idea of hurting people but at that very moment your life was on the line and you had to protect yourself.

The man was laying on the asphalt grunting and muttering some curse word and you took advantage of it. You had to run away, that was your only chance.

You quickly grabbed your car keys and purse off the ground before opening the door and getting in. You locked yourself in before you started fumbling to get the vehicle going.

Your hands were shaking and your vision was still blurry from the punch he had thrown at you.

You gave him a quick look, terrified he’d get up and kill you on the spot.

You didn't know how but you managed to start the car and without even looking back you drove away from that parking lot. You knew you couldn't drive in those conditions but you just wanted to get away from that monster.

You didn't know where to go, you didn't want to go home, the terror of being attacked there would’ve killed you so you went to the place where there was the only person you wanted to see, the only one who could make you feel better, safe.

The journey to the district was awful.

Your body was driving but it was as if you were experiencing everything from the outside, as if your soul had left your body and was looking at you from afar.

You didn't know how you managed to drive and not run over anyone or crash yourself.

Your breathing was still quickening, your chest rose and fell as if you'd run a marathon, your trembling hands struggling to hold onto the steering wheel. Your vision was blurred due to copious tears flowing from your eyes and streaming down your face, not even realizing you were crying desperately.

Your face was in pain and you were sure a huge bruise would appear on your cheek, although you didn't care, grateful you were still alive, that you managed to escape.

When you arrived at the district, you didn’t care about parking your car properly, or to take your bag or lock it after getting off. You just wanted Jay.

A smile appeared on Sergeant Platt's face the moment she saw you walking up the stairs, but when she noticed the way you were running, it immediately disappeared.

“Oh my God Y/N!” she exclaimed as soon as she saw you up close. Your face was streaked with tears, an expression of pure terror and fear contouring your features, your uniform stained with dust. She ran towards you, placing her hands on your arms. “What happened to you?” She took a look at your body looking for any other injury. “Oh dear. It's okay, whatever happened you're safe here.”

You kept breathing hard and your eyes were so full of tears you could barely see her.

“Shh it's okay. Come on, let's go sit down.”

She put her arm around your shoulders as she took your hand with her free one as a sign of support. She led you into one of the break rooms, making you sit on the couch and sitting next to you.

Her hand kept squeezing yours meanwhile the other stroked your back, trying to calm you down.

“Do you want some water?” She asked and you nodded, not being able to speak at the moment. Trudy got up and ran to get a bottle of water.

She handed it to you after opening the cap and it broke her heart to see the way you were shaking. “T-thanks,” you stammered, your chest shaking with sobs. “J-Jay.”

“I'm going to call him right away, don't move from here,” she said, seeing the way you needed him. She got up and ran upstairs, where Intelligence was still busy working on the case.

Everyone turned to the sergeant, who was at the top of the stairs with an expression that did not bode well. “Trudy, did something happen?” Voight asked as soon as he saw her but her gaze fell on Jay, who was standing by the whiteboard, arms folded across his chest.

“Jay… It's Y/N…” She spoke, saying nothing else. “She's downstairs now…”

Jay's eyes widened at the sergeant's words, his eyebrows furrowed in an expression of worry and fear. He knew something was up, by the way Platt looked at him and a wave of anxiety hit him, his mind now focused only on you.

Without even letting her finish the sentence, he quickly moved away from the others, running down the stairs, almost tripping on his feet. Trudy followed him, giving no explanation to the rest of the team who just exchanged a worried look.

“Where's she?” he asked hurriedly and Trudy pointed him to the room you were in.

He burst into the room and breathed a sigh of relief when she saw you sitting on the sofa but immediately worrying when he saw the state you were in. Trudy closed the door behind him, leaving you two alone and not giving any other cops a chance to snoop.

You had your elbows resting on your knees, your hands on your face as your leg bounced up and down almost obsessively.

“Baby!”.

His voice made you snap your head to him and before you knew it, you were rushing into his arms, squeezing yours around his torso with so much force you were almost afraid he’d disappear.

Jay was surprised for a moment but immediately returned that hug, wrapping his arms around your shoulders and hugging you like he never did. He had no idea what had happened, but whatever it was he knew it was serious and that was enough to make his heart race.

“I'm here baby, I'm here. I'm not going anywhere. It's okay,” he whispered, placing a kiss on your head, stroking your hair. You cried in his arms, with relief because he was finally there with you.

His heart sank as he heard you cry like that, feeling helpless like never before. You kept shaking and, without even knowing anything, Jay promised himself whoever had done this to you was a dead person.

“Baby you're making me worry to death. Please talk to me,” his voice coming out desperately. You broke away from his embrace, but still remained very close to him. “Darling, look at me. What happened?”.

His hands rested on your face and inevitably on the bruised cheek. You winched in pain and this didn't escape Jay, who was on the verge of losing his mind by then. “Y/N. Look at me,” he urged and you did as he said, lifting your head and making eye contact with him.

His breath caught in his chest as his gaze fell on the clear purple bruise on your cheek.

“What the fuck? Y/N…” he stammered, an incredulous and horrified look on his face as he looked at you. He took his hand away from your wounded cheek, placing two fingers under your chin and turning your head to inspect it better. “Shit baby… What happened? Who did this to you?”.

His heart was pounding in his chest and as his eyes looked at every single inch of that bruise that lined your cheek, every single cell in his body lit up with rage. Seeing the desperation on your face, the look of pure terror with which you were looking at him, the way your eyes were so full of tears, Jay felt as if he had stabbed and someone had twisted the knife over and over again.

“I-I… H-he…” you stammered meaninglessly, sobbing between words clearly still unable to speak.

“Oh baby come here,” he hugged you again, this time even harder than he had before. “My beautiful princess. It's okay, it's okay, you're safe now do you hear me? You're safe.” He tried to comfort you “I'm here now, I'm here. You’re not alone anymore and I will never let anyone hurt you again. You’re safe with me my love.”

“I-I was…” another sob “So… S-so scared…” you cried into his shirt, wetting it with your tears.

“I know, my baby, I know,” he whispered, placing lots of little kisses on your head. “I'm so sorry. It wasn't supposed to happen, not to you. But you're safe now, I'm here with you, you’re safe with me.” He kept repeating to you.

You both sat on the couch and he continued to hug you indefinitely, holding you and cradling you in his arms until you calmed down. “Sorry,” you muttered, your voice weak as you pulled away from his embrace, gesturing at his tear-stained t-shirt.

“Don’t even say it,” he replied. He raised his hand and stroked your hair, tucking it behind your ears as you kept your gaze on your hands. He was about to continue speaking when his eyes fell on the bruises on your arm, visible outside of your uniform.

His fingers lifted the sleeve to take a better look of the bruises on your skin. He immediately understood they were finger markers, a sign that someone had violently grabbed your arm.

“Oh darling,” he whispered, shattered at the sight of those horrible marks on your beautiful skin “What have they done to you?” His fingers caressed you gently, being careful not to hurt you further.

He was furious, like he had been a few other times in his life, and he still hadn't heard the story.

“Tell me what happened, please.”

You sighed and with still trembling voice, started talking. You told him about everything, about the roses, about the feeling of being followed, about the text, about the call and about the man who attacked you, the fact you already saw him for few seconds weeks prior, how he hit you and how you defended yourself.

“Why the hell didn't you tell me about it sooner?!” Jay snapped, when you finished speaking “This was never going to happen dammit! I would’ve killed that fucking son of a bitch.”

He leapt to his feet, running his hands over his face and pacing around the room. He didn't want to pick on you, it wasn't your fault and he knew it, but he was so damn angry, so angry you had to go through this, that he wasn't there to protect you.

His eyes landed on you noticing how yours quickly filled with tears again at his words and the tone of voice he used. “No, no, no baby, don't cry,” he rushed over to you, kneeling in front of you and wiping away the tears with his thumbs. “I'm so sorry, I didn't mean to blame you. It's not your fault, please don't cry.”

His hands rested on your knees as you looked at him with sad, broken eyes, making his heart break over and over again. “You’re right I should have told you about it…”

“No, baby, don't get this into your head okay? It's not your fault, I’m so sorry for snapping like that I’m just so fucking furious for what that piece of shit did to you. It’s his fault, he hurt you and make you go through all of this. I hate you had to go through this alone and I wasn’t there to help you,” He sighed “I knew something wasn't right, I should have…” Jay stopped his eyes suddenly widening as you looked at him confused.

“Oh my god, that's… That's what you wanted to tell me this morning, isn't it?”. You didn't answer, effectively giving him the answer he needed.

Jay scrambled to his feet again, as if he'd just been given an electric shock. “Fuck!” He tried to keep control but you jumped as he kicked a chair in anger before placing his hands on the table and bowing his head, his back towards you.

“Jay…” you mumbled, standing up and walking towards him. You placed a hand on his back even though he didn't move from that position.

“It's my fault, this…” he choked on his own words “If I had stopped and listened to you this morning… Shit… It shouldn't have happened… I’m so sorry…”

“Hey, hey, no baby,” you interrupted him “Don't be hypocritical and tell me to not blame me and then do the same.”

He turned his head to you and it broke your heart to see his eyes full of tears. “I was late Y/N… I… This happened to you because I didn't stop for five fucking minutes to listen to you!”.

“Jay, listen to me,” you spoke to him softly. You lightly pulled his arm, causing him to straighten his back. You cupped your hands over his face, stroking his cheeks. “It's that crazy bastard's fault okay? Not yours, not mine.”

“If something happened to you… God…”

“No. Let's not do this. No ifs and buts. I'm here and I'm fine, I was scared shitless, I'm still scared shitless, but I'll be fine. You’re here with me and you’re all I need baby. These are just bruises and they'll be gone in a couple days,” you croaked “You should’ve seen how he looked then.”

He sighed before letting out a chuckle though the tears, hugging you for the third time, his hand stroking your hair. “We'll get him okay? And I'll fucking make him pay for what he did to you.”

You and Jay went upstairs, not wanting to let you disappear from his sight for even a second, after reassuring Trudy and telling her what had happened. Needless to say, she threatened to kill the bastard herself if Jay didn't. The way he answered told you that there was no need and that he’d certainly sort it out.

“I'll get you some ice for the bruise,” Kim had offered. The rest of the team didn't take it quite well either and Voight promised you they’d catch the bastard who hurt you. You and Jay had been together for a long time and you were part of the group now, an attack on one of them was an attack on all of them.

“Thank you,” you thanked her with a warm smile, placing the bag of ice on your face. The cold sent a rush of shivers up your spine.

“Come on baby, let's go in the break room,” Jay had said, his hand resting on your lower back. However, your gaze fell on the white board on which various photos and sentences were hung.

At first you didn't notice, but when your eyes saw a particular photo, you did a double take, stopping in your tracks and lowering the hand that was holding the ice.

“Baby? Are you okay?” Jay immediately asked alarmed, then following the direction of your gaze. “Oh. That's the case we're investigating.”

The photo just on the blackboard wasn't clear enough, it was a frame taken from a surveillance video but you could distinguish the features of the man it portrayed.

You stopped breathing for a second and your mind retraced in those brief moments your aggression, still fresh and imprinted in your memory.

“Y/N?” Jay pressed, worried about your reaction as his hand caressed your back.

“It-it… Jay…” you breathed out “It's him…”

“What?!” Jay's eyes nearly popped out of their sockets and everyone in the unit couldn't mask their surprise.

“It was him… H-he attacked me… Oh god…”

Your hands start shaking again and you thanked that Jay was there to hold you or you would’ve probably collapsed on the floor.

Your eyes moved from that frame to the other hanging photos. There were four photos depicting four different women, more or less your age and similar in appearance to yours. Alongside these were other photos portraying instead what were unmistakably the victims’ bodies.

You were in complete shock.

What were the odds that the man stalking you was the same Jay was investigating on?

“C’mon let’s go,” Jay put his arm around your shoulders, leading you to the break room and closing the door behind him.

You weren't even crying. You were just completely shocked.

“Jay… He…” you stammered as if you were having trouble coordinating your thoughts. He put both of his hands on your shoulders.

“Baby, just breathe okay? Do it with me, take a deep breath.”

You shook yourself out of his grip, now in a panic. How could you calm down?

“He was… He would’ve killed me Jay, like… Like those women… Holy shit…” you continued to babble. You couldn't believe it. You understood that bastard was to be locked up somewhere, but you never, ever imagined he was a serial killer, that he’d done that before to those poor women. What if you didn't fight? What if he managed to overpower you?

Jay closed his hands into a fist, pressing his nails into his palms in an attempt to let out even a tiny bit of the anger, rage and fear he was feeling at the moment.

He didn't even want to imagine it, the thought was enough to make him sick. He didn't want to imagine what could happen to you. He run the risk of losing you forever without even realizing it.

Jay couldn't exist in a world where you weren't there. He couldn't even pass the idea of not having you next to him, the pain from this thought alone was unbearable and it was enough to make his heart shatter to pieces. Damn it, he asked you to marry him, you were his fiancée, his soon to be wife, the future mother of his children. You had to start a family together, buy a bigger house to raise your children and you’d live and grow old together, forever.

He couldn't accept some son of a bitch threatened to take you away from him, the most beautiful person he'd ever met, the love of his life, his anchor and his salvation.

“What happened to those women?” You asked, afraid to hear the answer.

“Baby…”

“No Jay, please, just… Just tell me. What happened to them?”.

Jay took a deep breath, knowing that telling you would only make you feel worse. “No, love. Listen to me now,” he walked over to you, placing a hand on your healthy cheek and stroking your skin with his thumb. “Don't torture yourself like this, it won't do you any good to know, please trust me. You were so brave and you managed to knock out that son of a bitch and now you're here with me, safe, so just think about this okay? I beg you. I don't even want to think about what happened to those poor women, I don't want to think something like that could’ve happened to you and I don't want you to think about it either.”

He was right. You didn't want to know, sometimes it was better to live in the unknown.

“I'm so proud of you,” he whispered, kissing your forehead as his fingers wiped away your tears with excruciating delicacy. “I would’ve died if anything had happened to you baby, I love you so, so fucking much. I couldn't have survived without you.”

“I love you so much Jay,” you too replied in a whisper before sharing a soft, sweet kiss, your nerves starting to finally calm down. “What happens now?”.

“You’ll stay here and we’ll continue to work non-stop until we catch that bastard.”

“Are you sure I can stay here?”.

“Is this even a question?” He looked at you as if you were an alien “Yes baby, of course you can. You have stay here. I need to know you're safe or I won't be able to think of anything else and I know nothing can happen to you if you’re here. If you need anything call me and I’ll be here okay? Try to get some rest, and put ice on your cheek.”

You nodded, knowing that even you wouldn't feel safe anywhere else but there in the district.

After sitting on the small sofa in the break room you eventually fell asleep, tired and worn out from the shift, the day's events and the lack of sleep from the previous night.

Jay and the rest of the team worked nonstop to try and locate the suspect whose name was still unknown. After learning you had hit his nose and you had probably broken it, they called the hospitals in the area and within a radius of about 20km – deducing he wouldn’t be so stupid to go to the hospital where you worked – with the hope that he’d go to get treated.

This hope turned out to be a reality when Kevin was told by a hospital just outside the city that there was a patient matching the description who was still there waiting to be treated for his broken nose.

When Jay went into the break room to warn you they'd found a lead, his heart skipping a beat seeing you asleep. Your head was resting on the back of the couch, your arms folded across your abdomen as your chest slowly rose and fell.

A sad smile spread across his face as he approached you with silent steps, his chest tightening at the sight of that horrible bruise on your cheek. As his eyes roamed on your body, he then noticed some scratches on your forearms and his stomach dropped again for the thousand time that night. He’d never forgive himself for not being able to help you, for failing to realize sooner what was happening, allowing someone to hurt you, he was hating himself for not being there to protect you.

He decided not to wake you up and he leaned over you, gently stroking your hair and tucking a strand behind your ear that had fallen in front of your face. He kissed your forehead, taking an extra second to savor the moment, grateful to still being able to do it.

“I love you so much my baby,” he whispered, “Everything will be okay, I promise you.”

After telling Trudy to stay by your side and never leave you alone, he headed towards the hospital where the suspect was supposed to be, his blood boiling with anger, his hands shaking with the frenzy of being able to have that son in his hands.

The stalker, however, after seeing the cops coming, didn't hesitate for a second to run away. Jay chased after him, determined not to let him get away.

“Chicago PD! Stop now!” Jay shouted as he quickly descended the emergency stairs and followed the man, skipping a few steps at a time in an attempt to reach him first. The fact the man was injured went to his advantage as Jay took the opportunity to jump on his back, causing both of them to fall heavily to the ground.

Jay's vision immediately blurred with anger.

He punched him in the face, using all the strength he had in his body to hurt him. “Son of a bitch!” He exclaimed through clenched teeth, punching him again and again. He didn't care about anything, he didn't care about the consequences there could be. He just wanted to see him suffer, to see him writhe in pain and fear, just the way you did.

“You made a fucking mistake tonight,” Jay spat, standing up and grabbing him by the collar of his shirt, lifting him up like a sack of potatoes before slamming him heavily against the wall. The man coughed, letting out sounds of pain even if Jay couldn't care less. “You'll wish you’d never met her when I'm done with you, you worthless piece of shit.”

He hit him in the face with another punch, not caring about the blood splattered on him after each blow.

He didn't even realize he wasn't alone anymore. Voight was there and watched the scene without batting an eyelid. He deserved it, he deserved everything Jay would do to him, not just for you but also for those poor women who weren’t lucky enough to survive. He knew there was no way to stop him, even if he wanted to, especially since you were involved.

Jay hit the man's head against the wall, then pushing him to the ground. He approached him and without any mercy and without even acknowledging the man's suffering, he kicked him in the stomach.

“Fuck…” the man murmured weakly.

“Look at me you son of a bitch!” Jay cursed, grabbing him by the collar of his shirt again and punching him in the face. “You thought it was fucking fun to hurt my fiancée?!”.

Another strong punch.

“Answer me!” He shouted, knowing he’d not receive a response.

Jay had completely lost control.

His mind was only picturing your wounded and tear-stained face, your terrified expression, your eyes full of tears, the bruises on your arm, on your face, the scratches, the way you hugged him so tightly because of the terror you felt, the fear you must have felt in those weeks.

“You thought you’d get away with it huh?! Making my future wife's life a fucking hell?!” He growled again, kicking this time the man’s face. “Making her scared of her own fucking shadow?!”.

Another kick in the stomach.

He was about to kill him and he didn’t give a fuck.

He bent over the man who was then barely breathing. “Did you like putting your useless dirty hands on my girl, huh?” he hissed as his foot stepped on one of the man’s hand with so much force until he heard his screams and his bones cracking.

He didn't move anymore, now unconscious and covered in his own blood.

Voight intervened at that point, not even knowing if he was alive or not. “That's okay Jay, calm down now.” He placed his hands on his shoulders, pulling him away from the unconscious man. Jay was breathing heavily, as if he had just run a marathon, his angry eyes still focused on the bastard lying on the ground.

“Now get away from here. Go out from the emergency exit and drive back to your fiancée, you were always there with her okay? I’m sure she needs you now.” Voight had ordered him but Jay didn't respond at first. “Halstead.”

At that point Jay focused his gaze on his boss and nodded feebly, casting one last glance at the stalker before walking away.

He wiped his face and hands with a handkerchief he had found in the car, trying to ignore the pain in his swelled hand, his knuckles red.

He never regretted what he did.

He had always condemned the brutal ways some cops used, like his own boss did sometimes, but in that moment he didn't stop to think about how he’d not hesitate even a second to do it again and make suffer anyone who’d hurt you.

When it came to you he’d lose his mind, his judgment clouded. You were the most important person in his life, the most precious of treasures, and he’d protect you with his own life if he could, if it meant keep you safe forever. It may have seemed an exaggeration, it may have seemed crazy, but he didn't care, God, he would’ve burn the entire city to the ground if it meant protecting you.

And as he drove to the district, eager to see you again, only one thought ran through his mind: how much he regretted not making that piece of shit suffer more.

General tag list: @hngbrooks, @alexxavicry, @mrspeacem1nusone, @halstead-severide-fan, @allivzs, @omniaimy, @cursedashes

Jay Halstead tag list: @burgstead, @bebataylor84, @ares-kelani-wayne, @ixna-mikaelsxn, @sande5098, @smoothdogsgirl, @withakindheartx, @jess2013, @maddu-oliveira, @lovemesomepietro, @onechicagodrawings, @jinxfan18, @ready-hit-it, @rainroo2, @tinfoilhat2719, @upsteadlovingheart, @nevaehstreater18, @sophiatellerrhodes, @dedlund82, @kellykidd, @rippl3s, @stephanie708, @annahargrove, @smutlOver, @kuroe-san, @caroldanverwife, @baby, @nosy09, @luvreading67, @danielmarie, @saiyuo12, @nachodaze, @waywardhunter95, @deanstead, @fighterkimburgess, @ephemeral314, @mads-weasley, @itskellysev, @lovemedlife, @atarmychick007, @amazedbyitall, @glodessa, @xeleni-dutchnurse, @ossypooh, @itriedtoexplain, @randomwriter1021, @averyhotchner, @ellavanderberg, @mrshalsteadxx, @junevoidzombie, @nocturnalherb16, @croissantthief, @jayhalsteadsbadge, @youngblood199456, @dreamss-wavess, @halsteadloversworld, @laaaauuraaaaa, @firerusher, @itserickalove, @23victoria, @slytherlight, @goingwiththewind, @notanordinaryprincess95, @cadyfanninger, @acewritesfics, @iloveest, @instantpizzacat, @wickedlovely121, @hart-kinsella, @novabckly

Click here to be added to the tag list ❤️

Main Masterlist

Jay Halstead Masterlist

Support me on Ko-Fi ☕️

Side blog -> @halsteadloverslibrary

[pandapetals]

The Wedding

You and Logan get married!

professor logan howlett x professor fem!reader - married couple, cute, fluff, teasing, no y/n used, no reader description, your an english professor, logan is a history professor - imagine days of future past logan with the white streaks in his hair

also thank you to @coocoocachewgotscrewed for the idea of logan keeping the pen reader gave him and using it to write his vows.

read on ao3 or find more parts for the series: here

divider credit: @enchanthings

"It'll be a small wedding," Logan grumbled, scratching the back of his neck with that familiar, slightly awkward air he got whenever something made him uncomfortable. He stood in the middle of the living room, looking like a bear that had wandered into a tea party, completely out of place.

You raised an eyebrow, glancing up from the pile of bridal magazines scattered across the coffee table. "Small? Logan, there's at least a hundred people living at the mansion alone," you said, your voice somewhere between amused and exasperated. "It’s not exactly going to be 'small' with that kind of guest list."

Across from you, Jean nodded, sitting cross-legged on the couch with a wedding planning book perched in her lap. "My wedding had three hundred guests, remember Logan?" she chimed in helpfully, flipping through a page on flower arrangements.

"Our wedding," Scott corrected from the armchair beside her, not even looking up from the paper he was reading.

Logan groaned, running a hand through his hair. "Exactly why we should skip all this crap and just get hitched already," he muttered, his voice low and gruff.

You shot him a playful look, shaking your head. "What happened to 'you can do whatever you want, darlin'?" you asked, mimicking his gravelly voice with a teasing smile.

Logan’s mouth twitched, almost into a smile, but then his eyes flicked back to the growing mountain of wedding plans, suggestions from friends, and magazines full of over-the-top ideas. You could see the tension in his shoulders, the way he stood just a little too rigid like he was bracing for an attack.

Truth be told, you were feeling the weight of it too.

At first, you had been excited—three months of engagement bliss, giddy over every little detail. The idea of a big, beautiful wedding had seemed like a dream. But now? Now it felt overwhelming. Everyone had an opinion, from the color scheme to the type of cake to the seating arrangements. You loved your friends, but the constant suggestions had turned into something else, something bigger than you and Logan. It had started to feel like the wedding wasn’t really yours anymore.

Jean leaned in, holding up a sample invitation. "Oh, and I was thinking," she began, clearly not picking up on Logan’s discomfort. "You could have this gorgeous ice-blue theme with silver accents—it would match the winter season perfectly."

Logan shot you a look—one of those looks that said I’m two seconds away from walking out of here. You couldn’t blame him. The more Jean talked, the more you realized something had shifted inside you. Somewhere along the way, you’d gotten caught up in making the perfect day, and forgotten what this wedding was really about: you and Logan.

Not the flowers. Not the guest list. You two.

Logan cleared his throat, trying once more to gently steer the conversation. "Listen, all this sounds real nice," he said, his voice tight with barely restrained frustration, "but what if we just kept it simple? Y’know, courthouse, couple of rings, call it a day."

Jean blinked, clearly baffled. "A courthouse? Logan, this is your wedding! It’s supposed to be a special day, something beautiful."

You opened your mouth to agree with Jean, to defend the idea of having a "proper" wedding. But then, you looked at Logan again. His eyes—those deep, hazel eyes—were watching you closely like he was waiting for you to decide. Not just about the wedding, but about what you wanted, deep down.

Suddenly, it clicked. You realized that Logan was right. You didn’t need a grand affair. You didn’t need three hundred guests or ice-blue color scheme or a designer dress. You didn’t need all the noise and spectacle. What you needed—what you wanted —was something that felt like the two of you. Something real. Something simple.

You smiled softly, the decision made. "You know what?" you said, standing up from the couch and tossing the magazines aside. "I think Logan’s right."

Jean’s eyes widened. "Wait, what?"

Scott finally looked up from his paper, equally surprised.

Logan raised an eyebrow, his usual gruff skepticism tinged with curiosity. "Really?"

You nodded, crossing the room to stand in front of him, resting your hand on his arm. "Yeah," you said, your voice quieter now, more certain. "I don’t need the big wedding. I don’t need all the fuss. All I need is you. " You smiled up at him, feeling the weight lift off your shoulders as the words came out. "Let’s just get married. Just us."

For the first time in days, you saw Logan’s shoulders relax. He let out a low breath, his lips twitching into that half-smile that always made your heart skip a beat. "You sure?"

"Absolutely," you said, your hand slipping down to intertwine with his. "Let’s get hitched."

A week later, you found yourself standing outside the courthouse, the sun just beginning to set in the late afternoon sky, casting a warm glow over everything. It was quiet, just the way you wanted it. No crowd, no elaborate decorations, and no endless chatter. Just you and Logan, and the soft hum of the world around you.

You looked down at the simple dress you’d chosen—nothing fancy, just something that made you feel good, made you feel like you. Logan, dressed in his usual button-up, looked handsome in that effortlessly rugged way only he could pull off. His shirt was slightly unbuttoned at the top, a teasing glimpse of his chest visible, and his hair styled in those little tufts as always, the white streaks more visible. 

"Ready?" you asked, your heart fluttering in anticipation.

Logan’s eyes met yours, steady and calm. "More than ready."

As you both stepped inside, the courthouse was quiet. There was no fanfare, no grand entrance—just the two of you, walking hand in hand, a quiet sense of peace settling over the moment.

The ceremony itself was simple, just like you’d wanted until Logan surprised you. He cleared his throat, looking a little awkward as he reached into his jacket pocket.

"I, uh... I’ve got somethin’ for you," he muttered, his voice rough but filled with something soft underneath. From his pocket, he pulled out a pen. Not just any pen.

Your breath caught in your throat. It was your pen—the one you’d given him two years ago when he had started his first-day teaching history at Xavier’s. A "good luck" charm, you had called it, but it had become something meaningful to Logan.

You felt tears prick at the corners of your eyes as Logan handed it to you with a small smile. From the same pocket, he pulled out a folded piece of paper, slightly crumpled, like it had been carried around for a while.

"I wrote somethin'," he said, his voice low as he unfolded the paper, his eyes flicking nervously to yours. "Figured you deserved more than just... y’know, me wingin’ it."

He cleared his throat, glancing down at the paper. Then, with that same rough tenderness that was so purely Logan, he began to read.

"I ain’t great with words, darlin'," he started, his voice softening. "But I figure you already know that. So, I’ll keep it simple. You’re the best thing that’s ever happened to me. I ain’t perfect... never will be. I swear to you, I’ll spend the rest of my life doin’ whatever it takes to make you happy, keepin’ you safe, and showin’ you that you’re loved. 'Cause you are, more than I ever thought I’d love someone."

By the time he finished, your vision was blurred with unshed tears. You didn’t need any more words. You didn’t need anything grand or fancy. In that quiet courthouse, with Logan standing before you, holding the pen you had given him long ago, you had everything you could ever want.

"Logan," you whispered, your voice trembling with emotion, "I love you. I never thought I could be this happy, but every day with you... you show me something new. You make everything better."

He smiled then, a real, full smile that softened the lines of his face and reached his eyes—a rare sight, but one you cherished every time. He stepped closer, his hand warm and rough as he gently tucked a strand of hair behind your ear, his touch grounding you in the moment.

"I love you too, sweetheart," he murmured, his voice a low, steady rumble that sent warmth spreading through you, just like the way his presence always did.

You held each other's gaze as the quiet world around you seemed to fade, leaving just the two of you standing there. Together, you exchanged rings—simple gold bands that glinted in the soft light, but they felt like so much more.

Logan leaned in, his lips brushed yours, sealing the vows with a soft kiss. It was as steady and certain as the love you had found with him. It was simply perfect.

[azzibuckets]

Paper Rings [Part 10/10 | Paige Bueckers]

paige bueckers x fem!reader

summary: you and paige find your way back to each other and it’s better than you could’ve even imagined

a/n: this is the last and final part of paper rings!! if you’re still here thank you sm for reading, it genuinely means so much

word count: 1k

masterlist w/ all parts

“Leave my girl alone.” The entire team laughed, and Paige pulled you closer to her.

“I swear, she was so angsty for you that it was borderline pathetic. Every day she’d accidentally walk by the pool deck and watch your games.”

Paige whined, burying her head into your neck as her cheeks flushed red with embarrassment. You giggled, finding the entire thing hilarious. “Don’t listen to them,” Paige begged under her breath.

“Why? You’re so fucking adorable P.” You smoothed out her hair as you shot a quick wink of approval to KK, who nodded at you with a smirk on her face. “Besides, I already knew you came to watch my games.”

The blonde’s head shot up, and she looked at you suspiciously. “How? I thought I was so smooth!”

“You were! I never even noticed.” You fixed the collar of her shirt. “Until one of my friend’s moms came and mentioned you. Said you would tell everyone how amazing I was.” You batted your eyelashes at Paige, and her face turned an even brighter shade of red.

“Why is everyone out for me?” Paige groaned. You only laughed in response, pressing a quick kiss to her hairline.

When conversation waned and the team started scattering, Paige pulled you aside. “Can we get out of here?” she whispered. “I love the girls but I want you jus’ to myself now.” You blushed and nodded, following her out of Nika’s hotel room.

You guys walked along the quiet hall of the hotel in silence. You peeked at Paige, who seemed deep in thought. “Penny for your thoughts?” you asked, nudging her pinky with your own.

Paige interlaced her fingers among yours. “Nothing,” she said, a small smile on her face. “Just thinking about how happy I am with you.”

You tried to fight back a grin. “You’re so in love with me,” you joked, swinging your hands.

Paige stopped, turning to face you. “I am,” she said quietly, her eyes searching yours. Your heart throbbed at the sight in front of you. The soft look in Paige’s eyes combined with the slight pout of her lips was enough to make your knees weak.

“You know just how to make the girls swoon,” you teased, pushing her chest lightly.

“You’re the only girl I wanna swoon,” Paige breathed, pulling you in. She kissed your forehead, then your eyelids, making her way down to the slant of your cheekbones and then the tip of your nose.

“Paige,” you groaned when she kissed the corner of your mouth, dodging you when you tried to connect your lips.

“What?” she asked innocently.

You glared at her. “Kiss me.”

She chuckled, placing a long kiss on your mouth. You savored the feeling of her pillowy lips, the dampness of her tongue, the little moans escaping her mouth. Her teeth tugged on your bottom lip, making you shiver.

“Yes, officer, I see two young women engaging in a very scandalous and salacious affair in public, in sight for young and innocent children to see and be corrupted by.”

Paige huffed in annoyance when you pulled away to flip off Aubrey and Aaliyah, both of them laughing like coyotes. “You guys have a bedroom!” Aubrey yelled. “Use it!”

You rolled your eyes, but tugged towards Paige towards your room. “I feel kinda gross,” you said, taking off your shoes in the doorway. “I’m gonna take a shower.”

“A shower sounds like a great idea,” Paige grinned, following you into the bathroom. “Can we?” She looked at you with the biggest puppy dog eyes.

“You don’t have to beg,” you chuckled. “I would love to take a shower with my sexy, beautiful, amazing girlfriend.”

Paige’s eyes brightened at the last word. “I could get used to that,” she remarked, starting to take off her jacket.

The water was hot, and you relaxed under the pressure of the water streaming out from the shower head. Paige admired you for a second, your jaw tilted upward and your eyes closed as you basked in the warmth, water droplets sliding sensually down your hair and your jaw and your neck. When you opened your eyes, she stepped towards you. “You’re so gorgeous,” she husked before kissing you slowly.

This was the most intimate you’d ever been with Paige, you thought. Sex was nice, you thought, mind blowing with Paige, even. But somehow, this shower was the least sexual thing you’d ever done, and the feeling was unbeaten - Paige gently rubbing shampoo into your hair as she pressed kisses on your shoulders, Paige’s hands leisurely exploring your body as she spread soap over your skin, Pauge holding you as you both stood under the water, your cheek resting on her shoulder and her nose buried in your hair.

When you stepped out of the shower, Paige wrapped a towel around your hair, messily scrunching it up as you giggled. She wrapped a second towel around your body, patting you dry. “Do you wanna do my skincare for me?” you asked, and Paige nodded enthusiastically. Her arms wrapped around your waist and she set you on the counter. Standing between your legs, she carefully opened all of your products.

“Serum first,” you instructed. Paige looked at the little bottle strangely. “Just squeeze the dropper, babe,” you laughed.

Following your directions, she carefully placed a few drops on your face before gently rubbing it in. Her eyebrows furrowed and her tongue poked out slightly in concentration, and you cooed at how focused she was on making sure she was doing your skincare right.

She rubbed in your toner, making sure to do it in light circles, then applied your moisturizer. When she was done, she wiped her hands, then cradled your face. “You are perfect,” she told you.

“Stop it.” You looked down, heart bursting at the seams from all the affection that Paige was showing you.

“I’m serious. God really did spend extra time with you.” She brushed a strand of hair out of your face. “Don’t ever forget how beautiful you are.”

You wrapped your legs tighter around her waist. “How can I? You’re always gonna be there to remind me.”

Paige’s lips split into a grin. “Damn right I am.” Then she pulled you into yet another kiss, which you didn’t complain about. You could never get tired of tasting Paige’s lips.

[wildflower-otome]

[Translation] Shuuen no Virche EpiC:lycoris - Scien Brofiise - Salvation Epilogue After Story

Source: Shuuen no Virche -EpiC:lycoris- Otomate Sweet Box Story Book -L'histoire de Lycoris- Note: Spoilers for Scien's Virche de la Coda -Émotion- Salvation Epilogue below.

Ep. Scien - Gaze that beholds beautiful colours

‘I love you, my Death. My first and life-long love is solely yours—.’

Back in the days when I had first begun to take a panoramic view on the world, I never imagined the time would come when I would say such a thing.

* * *

‘In that sense, your existence is like a miracle. There is nothing in this world that I do not understand, and yet you far exceeded anything I could have predicted.’

‘Y-You’re exaggerating things.....there’s nothing particularly special about me.’

In bed after spending a plentiful amount of time making love, keeping her trapped within my arms, I was devotedly cherishing my future wife.

One, two, three—. I kissed her neck, making flowers bloom on her white skin.

‘S-Scien, you’re going to leave marks......’

‘That is the idea. At this point, I doubt you’re going to have a change of heart, but somehow or other, it would appear I enjoy marking you as mine. —You needn’t worry though; I’m placing them so they won’t be visible.’

‘Wh-When you put it that way, I’ve got no choice but to happily accept them then.’

‘And you? What will you do to me?’

When I asked her teasingly, she looked to have been taken by surprise. 

‘Um, well then.....would you allow me to touch your hair? I really enjoy touching your hair, Scien....’

‘Do as you wish. .....Still, aren’t you usually the one that does my hair anyway?’

‘Touching your hair to tie it up and simply touching it are—slightly different things.’

Just as she’d said, she seemed to be in high spirits as she touched my hair.

‘I’d only just been letting it grow longer out of laziness but if it makes you happy, I’ll keep it at this length.’

‘Thank you, it would. .....I’m really looking forward to seeing what kind of hairstyle you’ll have for our wedding ceremony.’

‘That should be my line.’

As she pulled the bed sheets in, wearing them about her like a dress, she continued.

‘.....It won’t be long now until the wedding.’

‘Yes. I’ll be sure to make it a day befitting our new journey.’

—That’s right. In just a few days’ time, we would no longer be merely engaged, but husband and wife.

‘Baby-making was also part of the plan, but perhaps it would be best to take our time and enjoy our married life first. .....I’ll need to study up on how to act properly as a husband too. It wouldn’t do to keep on focusing solely on my research like I have up until now.’

‘I’m plenty happy, even with things as they are now.....’

‘I won’t let you say that. I intend on making you even happier than you are now.’

‘...............-’

I couldn’t help but chuckle at the now reddened face of my future wife.

‘I’ve only just begun, so don’t go getting embarrassed already, alright? I still haven’t loved you nearly enough yet. Once we’re married, that’s when I plan on really getting started.’

‘R-Right. I won’t lose either—I’ll show you just how much I can love you too, Scien.’

‘You really have gotten bolder, haven’t you? But that’s more than fine with me.’

After laughing a little.....I took her hand and kissed her ring-wearing finger.

* * *

—Love is nothing more than foolishness. A bug that gets in the way of rational thinking.

I didn’t plan on rejecting my past self, who had once said such things.

It was for that reason I had, in my previous body, remained true to my belief that I would not love anyone until the very end.

—That’s right, I would never regret even the sins I had committed.

Because it had been that very heartlessness that had allowed me to meet my future wife.

* * *

 ‘Are you ready?’

In a single room at the church.

As the bridegroom, I asked the question of the girl in the pure white dress—no, of the woman who, in just a few hours, would be my future wife.

‘Yes. Mam helped me get changed.’

‘I see. I had thought for sure that woman would prattle on about it “Not being too late to change your mind” or some such nonsense.....’

‘Heheh, you’re completely right. But she did hug me in the end.....and told me to “Be happy.”’

‘.....That goes without saying. I suppose she is going to be my mother-in-law, more or less. I'll have to go and pay her a visit from time to time.’

‘Thank you. Once the ceremony is over, would it be alright if we went and told Adolphe and the others still dressed like this?’

‘I don’t mind. That was my plan too.’

I gazed at the veiled face that was now even whiter than before.

‘—I like the look on your face. Your expression tells me that you have no doubts about becoming happy.’

‘.....I’m glad you think so. Until just a while ago, I might have worried about whether it was right for me to be the only one to become happy..... But now, I will no longer hesitate to become happy with you, Scien. I.....won’t say that it’s in place of Adolphe and the others, but for the sake of the future they weren’t able to reach—I will become happy and never forget them.’

‘I would expect nothing less of my wife.’

Deciding to save kissing for the main event, I patted her golden hair to show my approbation.

.....From far away I heard the voice of the priest bidding us to enter.

Now was the true end of the time we spent together as mere lovers.

‘—Let’s go.’

‘Yes-.....!’

I took my wife’s hand as we began to walk at the same speed.

Heading for a future in which we would age and live out our life spans together.

‘—Let us become the happiest married couple in the whole wide world. That will be the greatest proof of my love that I can give you as your husband.’

Even without romance or love, I would be able to advance on towards the next frontier.

But at the very least, the person who I was right now was glad I had been able to meet my wife.

‘Ah, what a—’

I was completely different to how I was in the past.

‘—fascinating and dear world this is.’

Everything had appeared barren to my eyes before, but because of the existence of a single woman, it was all now dyed in beautiful colours—.

[countrymusiclover]

13 - Greatest Date Ever

Part 14

Dr. Redheaded Neighbor

Tag list - send an ask to be added @annieradcliff @watermeezer @zaidatorcuatomorgado @kmc1989 @tallrock35 @melvia-ito

Slipping on a light red dress that fell down to my ankles Will and I had called into work for the evening so that we could have the whole time to ourselves. Maxon was being watched at the Firehouse by Brett so we had no real worries. Hearing a knock on my door I pulled it open shaking my head at him. “You know you wouldn’t have to knock if we were living together.”

“I know but I like the idea of coming over and not knowing what you’re gonna wear on date night.” He chuckled standing in the doorway. “You look beautiful by the way.”

“You look nice too.” I eyed him and down dressed in some dark blue jeans and a black dress shirt. I don’t think I’ve ever seen him in a full on suit but I bet that is a sight to see for sure.

Will held out his hand for me to take. “So shall we head out for dinner?”

“We shall, Dr. Halstead.” Placing my hand in his he rolled his eyes.

“I’m not at work, Mal. Just call me Will.”

Clicking my tongue I closed my door and locked it behind us before we headed down to the lobby area of our apartment building. “Uh Will we might have a slight problem.”

“Shit!” He cursed under his breath running a hand through his hair. “This is not what I had planned for tonight at all.”

Raising a brow at the auburn haired man beside me. “What’s so special about tonight?”

“I wanted to take you out to dinner. I wanted to buy you your favorite dessert before we went to the fairs wheel that you’d told me you’d never been on. And then I’d - it’s not gonna be here. Come on.”

I giggled when he grabbed my hand dragging me back to the elevator and we headed right outside our apartment doors. “Will! What are we doing - what are you - oh my god.”

“Mallory, I know you haven’t been in my life since we were kids. But it feels like I’ve known you my whole life. You know me better than I’ll probably ever know myself. You are beautiful, smart and funny. And I’ll never get tired of your sarcastic remarks. But all in all, it’s your kind heart and love for helping people that drew me towards you and Maxon. So will you please marry me because I love you so much.” He had himself down on one knee with a tiny black box opened in his hands

Covering my mouth with my hand I laughed through happy tears I couldn’t truly believe this was happening right now. “Yes. Yes, Will.” He slides the ring on my left hand that he was holding onto.

Will rose up from the carpet floor kissing me deeply. “You’re not thinking we’re going too fast I’m guessing.”

“Not at all. Now kiss me, Halstead.” Looking up into his eyes I wrapped my arms around his neck bringing him in for another kiss. He wrapped his arms around my waist where we just held onto the other, deeply kissing and pulling at the clothing of the other until we broke the heated kisses for air.

Will held my face in his hands seeing a weak smile cross my face. “Hey, what’s wrong?”

“Will , I’m there’s something I need to tell you before we do anything further.” He nodded opening the door to his apartment where we stood near his bedroom after removing our coats and boots at the door.

“What do you need to me, Mallory?”

Closing my eyes I paused for a moment worried that he would laugh at me or worse. Regardless of him being my best friend I knew that he had slept with other girls. I mean he’s attractive and an ED doc at Med, what girl wouldn’t want to be sleep with him. “Will, I’ve never slept with anyone before. So, before we went any further as an engaged couple, I thought you should know that I’m a virgin.”

“Mallory don’t think for a minute that it’s a bad thing. You’ve been waiting for the right person.”

Draping my arms over his shoulders I sent him a genuine smile. “And now I have. It’s you, William Halstead.”

“You’re my person too, Mallory Easton.” He leans down cupping my face in his hands and I deepened the kiss threading one of my hands into his ginger hair.

I broke the heavy kiss nuzzling my nose with his whispering up to him. “Will, I – I want you to take my virginity tonight.”

“I’d say we should wait until the wedding night, Mal-“

Cutting him off I passionately kissed him, gripping the fabric of his dress shirt in between my fingers until I broke the kiss declaring to him. “I love you, Will. I don’t want to wait till the wedding night. I’m not worried we’re going too fast, we’ve spent a long time to get to this moment. So I wanna sleep with you tonight.”

He kissed me back passionately and he gently dropped me down to the bed. My back hit the soft silk sheets before I rose up from the bed staring at him softly and brought a hand to his cheek stroking it softly. He leaned into my touch, and he lifted his shirt over his head and threw it to the ground.

"I'll go slow with you." He reassured me, grabbing my hand with his. "We can stop anytime if you want. I don’t want to make you do anything you’re not comfortable with."

"I want to do this." I said, wishing my heart would stop beating so rapidly like I was scared.

My best friend still silently looked at me, slowly kicking his shoes off. "You're sure you wanna do this?”

"Yes. I want you to be my first." My hands started to trace his form, I began to run his fingers up and down his chest softly while I began to feel his hand start to crawl underneath my shirt. He lifted my shirt off my head, throwing it to the ground only once breaking the kiss

He hovered over me and brought his lips down upon mine. I wrapped my arms around his neck and embraced more into the kiss. I felt a hard rock positioned at my lower religion, he placed his member at my center and looked up at me. "Babe, this will hurt a little. Just tap my shoulder twice if you want to stop."

He nodded and aligned himself against me before thrusting into me softly , I hissed out in pain as I felt him breaking through my wall, tears began to well in my eyes. "I’m sorry, Mal. I promise once the pains gone you’ll enjoy it." He moved slowly against her, I bit down on my lip hard trying to bear through the pain.

Within moments I felt the pain suddenly vanish and began to feel pleasure. I began to move against him and leaned up pressing my lips down upon his. I came moaning out loudly as I felt a wave of pleasure come over me. He came seconds later as I felt him emptying inside of med, both moaning and groaning until we fell back onto the mattress together.

"Will, can I ask something of you now that I’m your fiancé?” I whispered cuddling up into his chest giving us time to catch our breath.

Will stopped moving his fingers through my tousled hair. “Anything.”

“I don’t want to wait for the off chance that I may or may not come back from serving for our country again. I want to marry you before I am deployed. I want to become your wife when I have to leave with Maxon. Can you do that for me?”

Will’s soft gaze scanned over my face before he touched the side of my face bringing my lips up upon his gently. “I’d want nothing more than to call you Mrs. Halstead as soon as possible.”

“There is one more thing that we need to take care of. I’m finally gonna have to meet your brother Jay.” We kissed for a few minutes until a thought came to my mind where I broke the kiss running my hands up his bare chest.

Will tilted his head suggesting a place to start. “How about we have him meet us at Molly’s?”

“That sounds like a great idea.” I grinned up at him before he placed his hands on my hips, rolling himself onto his back so I was on top. Connecting my lips with his again we got lost in one another for the rest of the evening.

[canadianfangirl-95]

Benny Miller- Sugar Daddy edition

Chapter One!

Summary: Your gym crush becomes unmanageable when he is suddenly thrust upon you as your new boxing trainer. After a drunken hook up at a night club opening, you begin to explore your feelings as you continue to learn new and exciting things about him.

About: Continuation of the sugar daddies AU Triple Frontier collection. See Frankie’s story or original teaser post for more information.

Characters- Kayla and Tasha are undescribed, so you can imagine them as your own friend group.

Chapter Warning: 18 + minors, DNI, age difference, reader is early 20s, Benny is late 30s, swearing, alcohol, violence (boxing), making out, grinding (dancing)

Chapter Word Count: 4k+

“Duck!”

Your attention suddenly turns to the padded boxing glove coming right at your face, it collides just seconds later with your right cheek, sending you bent over onto the boxing ring mat.

“Ooo, that looks like it hurt.” Your friend Kayla mutters into her fist, leaning on the ropes of the ring.

An outstretched hand reaches down to pull you back up, you accept it begrudgingly, knowing it was your own damn fault you ended up down here.

Your face was met with your trainer, Carlos when you stood up straight. He was in his forties, but you’d never know. He had short black hair and a stiff jaw, his arms adorned with tattoos. He had been training you for a while now and offered a sort of big brother relationship you hadn’t had before.

“What’s with you? Your attention has been all over the place tonight.” he said, peeling off his gloves.

You looked down at the mat embarrassed, “I don’t know, just got distracted. Come on we don’t have to stop; I promise I’m in it.” Bouncing on your feet you tried to engage him again while the throbbing in your cheek started to grow.

Shaking his head, he replied, “I’m not trying to hurt you, we’ll stop here, and you can do some cardio.” He collected the rest of his training supplies in his bag and stepped out of the ring.

Slumping your shoulders forward, you walked over to the corner where Kayla was leaning on the ropes, standing on the floor below the ring to take off your gloves.

“What was that all about?” she asked.

You shrugged, “It was nothing, I just lost focus for fucking what, two seconds? It happens.” But that wasn’t the truth, the truth was that you were distracted by him again.

You don’t even know his name, just see him in the gym all the time, either working out or training other boxers. You sipped from your water as you casually peered over to the other side of the gym to the mirrored wall. He was standing in front of it lifting weights.

Tall, dirty blonde hair, muscles flexing out of his Army t-shirt, a bit of scruff and the most beautiful blue eyes you’ve ever seen. He had a tattoo of an army man on his right shoulder that made you swoon. He was so handsome it made your core ache just watching him lift weights.

You couldn’t even fathom the idea of talking to him. Just looking at him made your knees weak. You imagine to yourself how easily he could throw you around with those big strong arms, and how badly you wanted to run your fingers through his hair.

Once again, you and Kayla found yourselves at the gym down the road from the University of Kentucky. They had an agreement where students got free membership, so you only had to pay for the training. The room had dark green paint and motivational sayings all over the walls. It was part of a big organization, but the employees worked really hard to make it a personal experience. There was a long wall of mirrors with weights for people to lift facing and every exercise machine you could possibly think of. You both made your way to the far back corner where a boxing ring is set up.

You tossed your gym bag up onto the mat and climbed in, adjusting your sneakers before standing up and placing your bag on the stool in the corner. You glanced around the room, looking for nothing really, you knew you wouldn’t see him here today as you had somewhat learned his routine, but you couldn’t help but hope you might catch a glimpse of his t-shirt being pulled tight across his chest.

“You know you should really just talk to him.” Kayla said pointedly, fiddling with your roll of athletic tape that you tossed on the mat as you tried to collect your things.

You furrowed your eyebrows at her, “Who?”

She rolled her eyes, “The hunky guy you’ve been staring at for months.”

“Oh, you uh- noticed that?” You ran your hand through your ponytail and leaned on the ropes so you could speak quieter to her.

Nodding, she replied, “Mhmm, and I really think you should take a shot.”

“Girl, have you seen him? How old would you think he is?” You jousted back at her, growing frustrated by her intrusion.

She pursed her lips and smiled, “Well, if this were One Tree Hill I’d say he’s old enough to be your dad-,”

“Exactly, fuck.” You exclaimed.

“Which, is pretty hot if you ask me.” She smirked.

You leaned forward and grabbed the tape from her. Ripping off a piece and strategically wrapping it around your knuckles you commented, “It’s a good thing I didn’t ask you then, did I?”

She scrunched her nose and gave you a smug look, to which you flipped her off.

“Hey, I’m just saying, you and Mike have been broken up for 4 months, your grieving period is over and now it’s time for you to have some fun. Like having a dirty, depraved hookup with a guy you have no business being with. Like that guy I hooked up with after the St. Patrick’s Day party.”

You rolled your eyes, “If that guy is the standard I’m looking for I think I’m happy being celibate.”

“Hey, he was cute!” She swatted your leg through the ropes.

You nudged your leg back at her, “He had a handlebar mustache and was wearing cut off jean shorts so don’t even start with me.”

“Shouldn’t you be doing your own workout? You don’t have to spend your whole time here watching me train.”

She hummed, “Yeahhhh, but it’s also more fun to bug you. Plus, I’m not really here for the whole exercise thing, just for the eye candy.” She said as she scanned the gym intently.

You giggled to yourself as you finished putting together your tape and gloves.

Suddenly her eyes widened and reached back to swat your leg again, “Speaking of eye candy.”

You followed her gaze and saw none other than your crush talking to the receptionist at the entry way. You bent down, “What the fuck is he doing here today? He never comes on Fridays!”

She shook her head, “I don’t know, but- um he’s walking in this direction.” She quickly turned her back to him and gave you a shocked expression.

“What!” You quietly exclaimed. “No, no, no why is he coming over here?”

She waved her arms casually, “Just calm down, no need to panic. He probably just needs something in this general area. No reason to think he’s coming over here.” You nodded, shifting your gaze to find that he was still on a path towards the ring. “But I mean if he was coming over here. You could finally talk to him.”

“Not happening! I am perfectly content staring at him from a distance and imaging what his bicep would taste like thank you very much.” She giggled at the mental image you just tossed into her head.

You glanced above her head and realized he was definitely walking towards the ring and was now trying to make eye contact with you. You muttered to Kayla, “No, no, no, no, no-,”

“Hey.” he said with a wave as he reached the outside of the ring beside Kayla. He was wearing a grey Under Armour t-shirt that was so tight the arms sat snuggly on his biceps, with navy gym shorts and running shoes.

You flung up straight, “Hi.” Kayla gave you a little thumbs up from the side of her body he couldn’t see.

He tossed his bag through the ropes and climbed up, “You must be Carlos’ 4 o’clock?”

Nodding, you hummed, “Yep.” Slowly backing into the corner of the ring.

“Great, I’m Benny. So, uh- bad news. Carlos had to go home to Honduras for a family emergency, he’ll be gone for a few weeks at least. So, I promised I would take over his sessions until he returns.”

Your eyes widened; he’d be training you? Oh no, this is not good you thought. “Oh, sorry to hear about Carlos. That sounds like a lot to take on, don’t you have your own clients? I could always just take a few weeks off.” You said brazenly, trying not to be too flustered.

He shook his head, “No, no it’s fine I promise.” His smile was so bright you could’ve melted under its shine. “I’m happy to help, I just had a client transfer to a different gym anyway, so I’ve got the time.”

“Really? Because that seems like a lot to take on.” You choked out.

“I’ve got the time.” he stated, resting his hands on his hips, and grinning at your flustered state.

Kayla chirped in from below you, “He’s got the time.”

You glared down at her, and she winked.

Clapping his hands together he began putting his boxing mitts on. You feigned a smiled and turned to Kayla who was still beaming from the interaction.

You chugged your water, your mouth had gone completely dry during the interaction and finally stepped towards the center of the ring.

After getting himself prepped he met you there. “So, Carlos said you’re not training for professional fighting, just for exercise, right?”

Nodding, you pulled your lips tight. “Yep.”

“What got you interested in boxing?” He asked.

You shifted your stance, “Um, just uh- wanted to be more active and I find the machines boring.” You lied through your teeth.

He nodded, “Alright well let’s see what you got.”

The hour was excruciating. Both from the work out, and from how your heart ached even more for him. The entire time he was nice and understanding and not at all condescending like some of the other trainers who had stepped in for Carlos. He has an enthusiasm about him that finally broke your resolve and made you laugh and smile throughout. You felt the want to impress him and really started focusing on the skills you had learned over the last few months. You bounced around the mat ducking his advances until you finally planted a jab into his gut.

He let out a grunt and slapped his glove onto his stomach, “Oof! Damn girl, that was sneaky. Talk about float like a butterfly, sting like a bee. You look like a bunny bouncing around on the toes.”

You smirked and knocked your gloves against his to close the session. “Thanks, you’re a good teacher.”

He removed his one glove to toss his hair back that had gotten sweaty during the session and was sticking to his forehead. You held your gaze far longer than you should have.

Benny collected his bag and turned to you, “That’s all I got for today, I’ll see you on Monday Bunny.”

“Okay, see you.” You smiled shyly. He offered you a large grin and nodded to Kayla as he exited the ring.

Once he was far enough away you fell to the mat and sat with your knees bent, leaning against the corner.

“Awwww, Benny and Bunny!” Kayla mewled.

You huffed, “Fuck, he’s got a lot of energy. I’m exhausted. He’s like a golden retriever. Just keeps going and going.” You panted.

Kayla leaned forward, “Yeah, can we keep him?” She had shit eating grin on her face and popped her eyebrows up and down.

“Fuck, no. I don’t need another dog.” You smirked.

She looked confused, “What other dog do you have?”

“You, ya fucking mutt.” You nudged her and her mouth gapped with a sarcastically hurt look on her face. “You’re enough to take care of, trust me.”

She shook her head, “Well, I think once Carlos is back you should see if he wants to go out.”

When Carlos gets back. Huh, you thought to yourself. You loved working with him, but Benny was something else. You almost didn’t want to lose your 3 hours a week where you would have his undivided attention.

The following Friday was your fourth session with Benny, each one better than the last. He was fun and bubbly and dare you say flirtatious. Even Kayla saw and quite frankly could not shut up about it.

You had just finished up your session when Benny crossed back over the ring to your corner. “So, what do you lovely ladies have going on tonight? Friday night, any big parties?”

Kayla and you glanced at each other before you replied, “We’re gonna go to that club opening downtown actually with a few other friends.”

His eyes lit up, “Gators? Oh, sweet I’m going too.”

Your eyes widened, “Cool, well maybe we’ll see you there I guess.”

“See you later.” He beamed with excitement as he left the ring once again.

You groaned as you entered your apartment with Kayla, who was skipping behind you.

Your other roommate Tasha perked up from her place on the couch, noticing your disgruntled attitude and how you rested your head between your crossed arms on the kitchen island, Kayla shimmying her shoulders beside you. “What’s her problem?”

Kayla bounced in her spot, “Her hot trainer Benny is going to the same club opening tonight.”

You groaned louder into your arms, Tasha squinted her eyes and drew her eyebrows inward, “And that’s a bad thing because?”

Your head shot up and you replied exasperated, “Because he’s so, so hot, nice and funny.” You paused, biting your lip, Tasha staring at you waiting for the boot to drop, “But he’s older.”

“How much older?”

“At least fifteen years I’d guess.” You said, tucking your head back down.

Kayla scoffed, “Can you just not count yourself out before you’ve even started? Geeze, Mike really did a number on you. Remind me to kick his ass next time I see him.”

You huffed a laugh into your arms. She continued, “Just, put on something sexy, try to have fun tonight and if you see him, just be yourself. Whatever happens, happens.”

“You’re right, I’ll try to have fun.” You said, pulling your head up begrudgingly and exiting for your post work out shower.

Loud country music filled the room as crowds of people danced along. You glided through, holding hands with your friends as you all tried to find a place to settle before grabbing some drinks. The room was a pretty typical country bar; dance floor in the middle, wood and western style décor with a mechanical bull on the stage, a big painting of an alligator with a cowboy hat on it on the wall behind the DJ booth.

Upon finding an open tall table to stand at, you and your friends leaned against it and scanned the room, bobbing your head to the music. You had done your hair and makeup nicely and had put on a tight black dress with spaghetti straps that showed off your curves with short red cowboy boots.

Kayla leaned in, “Does anybody want a drink now?”

You nodded with Tasha and her friend Chris. “I’ll come with you. What do you want?”

Tasha and Chris gave you and Kayla their orders and cash. You and Kayla sifted through the hoards of people to the densely packed bar. Kayla squeezed her shoulders between two guys while you stood sturdily behind her, trying not to get knocked around.

Your eyes flicked around the buzzing room, looking for Benny. You weren’t sure if you would even talk to him if you found him, but it still made you nervous at the thought he might be here.

Kayla turned to you, grabbing your attention back and she handed you two drinks before reaching again for the others. You and she returned to your friends and started drinking and getting into the vibe of the club. Eventually you all made your way to the dance floor after the drinks had started flowing and you let yourself forget about Benny and just enjoy the night.

You and Tasha were dancing along to the music when you suddenly felt unfamiliar hands land on your hips from behind you. You turned your head and were met with a man, around your height and age, plaid shirt to match the theme of the club, a brown beard and mustache with green eyes. Not unattractive by any means but not your type. You kindly stepped out of his clutches and danced beside him, rolling your eyes at Tasha. The man seemingly unaware of your rejection, followed behind you, moving his hands to your waist again and situating himself closely behind you. You stopped your movement and grabbed his hands, pushing him off you.

Turning to him you bluntly said, “No thanks.”

He crowded you again, which caused you to raise your hands in a defensive manner, “Oh come on baby it’s just one dance.”

Your face could not show more annoyance, but before you were able to respond, a strong hand latched onto the man’s shoulder, spinning him in his spot. You glanced over his shoulder, your eyes widened when you spotted Benny looming over the man.

“She’s not interested man, get lost.” he said, still clutching the man’s shoulder. He was wearing a simple white t-shirt, light washed jeans with a few intentional rips and square toe boots.

Benny’s stature and attitude clearly did the trick as the man nodded nervously and stepped aside, disappearing into the crowd.

“I guess I owe you a thank you.” You stated nervously.

He smiled, “Don’t, the only one thanking me should be him. I’ve seen your right hook, and he probably would prefer he goes home tonight with his nose intact.”

You grinned, looking around you. Tasha had apparently exited sometime during the incident, and you were left totally alone on a booming dance floor with your mysterious crush.

He leaned forward, “Wanna get a drink?”

His eyes were so light and inviting, you swallowed deeply, willing your nerves away and replied, “Sure.”

Taking your hand, he led you through the crowd to the bar. He easily captured the attention of the bartender and ordered the two of you shots. He turned to you handing you the second shot, he had a devilish grin on his face.

You looked down at the liquid, not recognizing the colouring. “What is this?” You yelled through the music, pointing to the shot glass in your hand.

“Tequila!” he replied, popping his eyebrows up and down and shimmying to the music.

Your eyes bulged, you hadn’t had tequila in a while and last time you did you made some unfavorable decisions. You looked back up at the handsome man in front of you, waiting excitedly for your acknowledgement that you wanted to do the shots with him. You took a deep breath and held it up for him to cheers with. His eyes lit up and clinked his glass against yours, both of you downing the burning liquid swiftly. You both let out a huff and laughed to one another.

“You wanna dance Bunny? I’ve already seen your moves in the ring, but I wanna see what you’ve got on the dance floor.” he asked, shimmying his shoulders towards you.

“Aren’t you here with anybody?” You ask.

He shook his head, “I came here with my brother cuz’ he’s in town visiting from New York, but he just ditched me like 20 minutes ago. Doesn’t like clubs anymore, he’s like really old.” He said with a wink.

You nodded, suddenly feeling the effects of the tequila as your body became warm. “Sure, why not!”

He took your hand again and returned to the dance floor. The two of you bounced back and forth from the dance floor to the bar for an hour. Downing shots and dancing along to the country music that played along with the rest of the crowd.

Midnight struck and the DJ announced they would be switching the music to a more night club vibe.

The room darkened and the lights flashed as vibrant hip hop music boomed through the speakers. The people cheered and started bumping about, effectively pushing you into Bennys chest. You let out a meek sorry and tried to separate yourself from him.

He looked down at you, leaning into your ear to speak, “Don’t be.”

You met his eyes, they were dark. You didn’t hesitate when he reached his arms around your back, bringing you closer and slanting his leg between yours. You instinctively brought your arms up and wrapped them around his neck as you both started swaying to the music. No words were spoken, but your bodies clung to one another like your lives depended on it. He had his hands grazing gently along your back and hips, following your movement as you lightly grinded on his leg. Your eyes never strayed, each of you staring into the other with a burning desire that felt so questioned at the same time. Should you, shouldn’t you passed through your mind on repeat. You would surely survive if you held your resolve and refused yourself in your want to fall into his body fully. You still had at least a week of training with him before Carlos returned, and even then, you would still have to see him at the gym multiple times a week. If he didn’t feel a spark, if he didn’t want you longer than a night, you may not survive the ache that would bring to your heart as you had gotten to know him more in the last week.

Kayla’s words rang through your eyes, “Don’t count yourself out before you’ve even started.” How were you to know this couldn’t be the start of something. Maybe he isn’t just some guy in his late thirties who likes to bang college girls. Perhaps he does feel what you feel, and perhaps the risk would be worth it in the end.

As you toyed with your own emotions, Benny seemed fully decided, flicking his eyes between yours and your lips. He readjusted his hold on you, bringing his hands together on the small of your back and squeezing slightly. You both leaned in and after a desperate breath of desire, slotted your mouths together in an aching kiss. Wasting no time, he licked at your mouth, begging for entry to deepen the kiss. You obliged and the two of you fell into each other, hands grabbing at hair and bare skin. The rest of the room disappeared, all you could hear was your heartbeat and the intense breathing between the two of you as you gasped for breath between kisses. You felt your core start that unbearable ache and need to be satisfied. You squirmed slightly, trying to get a bit of friction on his leg and release some of the tension you felt building.

After what felt like eternity and no time at all, you broke the kiss and looked up at him, chest heaving, “Wanna get out of here?” you asked, timidly.

He grinned, “Fuck yeah.”

Benny took your hand and led you out the club, you were quickly able to shoot a look at Kayla as you passed, to which she responded with a big cheer and a crude gesture.

When you emerged from the hazy club, the liquor you had both been consuming began to overtake you as you stumbled towards a cab Benny was somehow able to wave down between his own hiccupped laughs at your imbalance. You slid into the cab and chuckled to him as you gave the driver your apartment address and he mocked you for the way your words slurred.

Once the cab pulled off the curb and began the quick drive to your place, Benny was back on you like a cat on a mouse. You held his face in your hands and laughed between mouthfuls of each other. He pulled your leg up onto his lap and ran his hand up your thigh to squeeze your ass through your skimpy dress. His poor excuse for facial hair tickled your neck as he lapped up every inch of exposed skin he could find.

The cab finally pulled to a jolted stop in front of your apartment, Benny reached into his wallet and handed the driver some bills, as well as an apology for the misconduct that had occurred in the back seat. He guided you out of the car and shut the door behind you.

You took his hand and led him upstairs to your floor. Upon reaching your door you paused, looking to him, your uncertainty taking over you once again, “Are you sure you wanna come in? It’s okay, if you don’t. We can just blame this whole thing on a drunken mishap and-,”

Before you could finish your self-deprecating rambling, Benny crashed his mouth back into yours. He pushed your body into the front of the door with his own and held your jaw with his hands. You were taken aback but accepted that he did in fact want this as much as you did, so you lifted your hands up to his elbows and stayed in the moment with him.

He slowly pulled his mouth off yours with a slight pop, his lips were already swollen and eyes stary. “Are you gonna let me in or you gonna keep trying to convince yourself I don’t want this?”

You swallowed deeply, and nodded, turning your body from his grips so you could unlock the door. It swung open and you fell into your apartment, dragging Benny behind you by the neck of his t-shirt.

His eyes stayed on you the whole time, while you kicked off your shoes, while you put your purse on the counter, while you fumbled with the lamp in the living room to give some light to the space.

The air between the two of you was electric as you met in the middle of the room, bringing each other into one last kiss before you break and take his hand, leading him down the hallway to the bedrooms. He smiled to you as you opened your bedroom door and followed you in. You prompted him to pass you and then reached up onto the front of the door at the sign hanging there. You grabbed it and turned it over to read “Do not disturb”, before kicking the door closed with your foot.

Next chapter

@rmwarn90 @meveispunk

[theextendedbriechyne]

A Quick Chat from My Desk

Today, I’m sitting at my desk, watching a vlog on YouTube. I’ve been thinking about writing a short story, but it’s not really in my comfort zone. I usually stick to blogs, especially ones that feel conversational—like I’m talking directly to you. This relaxed style is a nice change from the essay-style pieces I typically write, which are much more formal and structured.

By the time you’re reading this, I’ll probably be studying for my college applications. (If you have any tips, please share them in the comments—I’d really appreciate it!) But for now, I wanted to take a moment to write about how I’m feeling after returning to school. This is more of a personal update, so it won’t be going on Patreon—you can read it here instead!

Coming back to school hasn’t been too overwhelming yet. The first few days are always a bit easier, so it’s not too mentally taxing. Physically, it’s no big deal either. In fact, I enjoy tasks that combine mental and physical effort—it’s satisfying and keeps me engaged. Sure, you’d expect to feel tired, but there’s something fulfilling about using both your mind and body in tandem.

That said, I have to admit—I’m not exactly thrilled to be back. I much prefer vacations, where everything feels lighter and freer. It might sound a little pessimistic, but my first semester was rough, and the teachers didn’t make it any easier. Honestly, I don’t even know how to explain it—it’s just one of those things that’s hard to put into words.

When it comes to studying, I’ve developed some unconventional habits to keep myself motivated. I can’t sit still and focus for hours; instead, I like to walk around with my materials, condensing and memorizing information as I move. It’s a little odd, but it makes the process more fun and engaging for me.

I’ve also realized that creating something beautiful—like moodboards—or striving for high grades can be inspiring. Those small moments of accomplishment make the effort worthwhile. If you’re here reading this, you’re more than welcome to join me on this journey.

Anyway, that’s all for now. I’ll return to my usual essay-style blogs soon, diving back into literature, philosophy, and maybe even more Lord of the Rings content. Let’s see what ideas come to mind next!

Wish me luck!

Oh, and before I forget—my friends and I managed to squeeze in a quick café trip during our break before the last subject of the day. It was a nice little escape, even if it was short. If you want to see more snippets like that or just keep up with me, feel free to check out my Instagram. No strings attached—promise!

[briechyne]

A Quick Chat from My Desk

Today, I’m sitting at my desk, watching a vlog on YouTube. I’ve been thinking about writing a short story, but it’s not really in my comfort zone. I usually stick to blogs, especially ones that feel conversational—like I’m talking directly to you. This relaxed style is a nice change from the essay-style pieces I typically write, which are much more formal and structured.

By the time you’re reading this, I’ll probably be studying for my college applications. (If you have any tips, please share them in the comments—I’d really appreciate it!) But for now, I wanted to take a moment to write about how I’m feeling after returning to school. This is more of a personal update, so it won’t be going on Patreon—you can read it here instead!

Coming back to school hasn’t been too overwhelming yet. The first few days are always a bit easier, so it’s not too mentally taxing. Physically, it’s no big deal either. In fact, I enjoy tasks that combine mental and physical effort—it’s satisfying and keeps me engaged. Sure, you’d expect to feel tired, but there’s something fulfilling about using both your mind and body in tandem.

That said, I have to admit—I’m not exactly thrilled to be back. I much prefer vacations, where everything feels lighter and freer. It might sound a little pessimistic, but my first semester was rough, and the teachers didn’t make it any easier. Honestly, I don’t even know how to explain it—it’s just one of those things that’s hard to put into words.

When it comes to studying, I’ve developed some unconventional habits to keep myself motivated. I can’t sit still and focus for hours; instead, I like to walk around with my materials, condensing and memorizing information as I move. It’s a little odd, but it makes the process more fun and engaging for me.

I’ve also realized that creating something beautiful—like moodboards—or striving for high grades can be inspiring. Those small moments of accomplishment make the effort worthwhile. If you’re here reading this, you’re more than welcome to join me on this journey.

Anyway, that’s all for now. I’ll return to my usual essay-style blogs soon, diving back into literature, philosophy, and maybe even more Lord of the Rings content. Let’s see what ideas come to mind next!

Wish me luck!

Oh, and before I forget—my friends and I managed to squeeze in a quick café trip during our break before the last subject of the day. It was a nice little escape, even if it was short. If you want to see more snippets like that or just keep up with me, feel free to check out my Instagram. No strings attached—promise!

[edogawa-division]

Happy Halloween from Wicked Requiem

(+ A.D.A, A.R.K, & A.M.U!)

“Happy Halloween, everybody!”

“Kaoru…what on earth are you wearing?”

“A devil costume like we all agreed to this year, duh.” 

“I think Yuriko-san means why are you dressed like that Kaoru.” 

“Like what?”

“A whore.” 

“Excuse me Halloween is the one night a year when a girl can dress like a total slut and no one can say anything about it.”

“Did you…did you just quote Mean Girls?”

“My money is Kaoru dressing like that because she wants her boyfriends to goon after her.”  

“I have no idea what that means Kanra.”

“I do and how the fuck do you know that you little brat.”

“Am I wrong? You want Lyall-san and Joey-san to rip that off you and-”

“KANRA! SHUT UP YOU DAMN-” 

“Hahaha! Can’t catch me! You gooner!”

“Get back here!”

“You two! For fuck’s sake! Quit fighting! Hm? You’re still here? Then take this. I have to go stop those two from killing each other.”  

You received a treat!

Candy Pitchforks. Hard candies made into the shape of the devil’s pitchfork. They come in various flavors such as grape, blueberry, and cherry. Be careful they’re quite sharp. A stab from the devil if you will. 

Meanwhile…

“Oh A.M.U you look so adorable! Let me just give you a hug!”

“Nee-san A.M.U asks that you let her go. A.M.U is ready to go meet up with Sei-chan.” 

“Just a bit longer A.M.U this is your first Halloween! Yours and Seizou’s! Where’s A.R.K? He’s supposed to be done getting ready by now?” 

“A.D.A. you’re fucking lucky that I love you enough that I’m not fucking making you pay for making me dress like this. I already had a damn costume picked out.” 

“A.R.K your outfit was too scary for the kids! Besides KAITO is fitting for you don’t you think?” 

“Look I fucking get it Kaoru based my appearance off the damn Vocaloid but that doesn’t mean I wanna fucking dress like the bastard.”

“I don’t care A.R.K you’re dressing as the Vocaloid.. Also, a reminder you’re taking A.M.U and Seizou out trick or treating tonight.” 

“When did I sign up for that shit? My plan was to fucking get drunk off my ass and find some random bitch to ACK-” 

“A.R.K Tartarus Aruto Shinozaki, you listen to me, and you listen to me well. You will take our younger sister and brother-in-law trick-or-treating tonight. I swear if they come back home with a hair out of place, I will dismantle you in such a way that not even Kaoru will be able to put you together. Am I clear?” 

“C-crystal. Holy fuck you scare me sometimes. How Mal handles you I don’t have a fucking clue.” 

“Wouldn’t you like to know.”

“Never fucking mind you damn freak. I still want to fucking punch him for corrupting you.” 

“Do not punch my husband A.R.K.”

“Nee-san, Nii-san someone is here…” 

“Oh! So sorry, here you go dear! Happy Halloween, and be safe out there! Now you two give them something to.”

You received a treat!

Candy Ring. A ring pop that looks like an engagement ring, it’s very beautiful and very sweet in flavor. However, this is one bride you do not want to be marrying. A certain husband will tear you apart if you dare try.

“Hello. A.M.U was told to give this to you. So here.”

You received a treat!

Hell Lollipops. Simple red lollipops. However, don't let their appearance fool you. They pack quite the punch with how bitter they are that even Hell doesn’t want them.

“Ugh here. Happy fucking Halloween you bastards. Enjoy or…not.”

You received a trick!

A gas bomb?! It exploded right in your face! Leaving you gasping for air and clawing at your throat as your eyes slowly close. A certain spider android standing over you.

“A.R.K!!!”

“It’s not gonna fucking kill them!”

AMAZING AND BEAUTIFUL ART BY @minato-division03 / @akihabara-division03 !!!

[aphroditestummyrolls]

✨engagement series✨

HI ❤️❤️❤️ this is an idea I’ve had sitting in my drafts for ages, and I’m finally breathing some life into it. This is the first time Mikhail DeVries and his fellow merchlings meet the fabled Mr. Fahey.

“Isn’t it beautiful?” Karl insisted, taking him by the arm yet again and pulling him down the corridor, round the corridor into the parlour. Mikhail just blinked owlishly at the trail of purple rug under his feet. Purple. “Mickey?”

It was a childhood nickname, one that shook him out of his slack jawed silence.

“It’s-it… yeah.” He sounded stupid to his own ears, and his friend snorted a laugh at him.

The parlour was even more staggeringly decorated than the front hall. If Gekkehuis was red before, this might just kill the old bastard. Mikhail was feeling a bit faint himself.

It was absolutely unheard of. It was… it was insane. Yet, there it was. What was once a sombre place of business was now a colourful explosion of brocade silks and pinstripes, reupholstered cushions and a merrily dancing hearth. But, mounted above the sleek, lacquered wood of the mantle, there used to be a particularly ostentatious portrait of Jan himself.

It wasn’t there any longer.

Instead, there was a slightly smaller golden frame, filigreed and gleaming. Inside it, there was an oil portrait. It was the austere, soft lit style of formal merchant council portraits. In it, a young Kerchman sat in the traditional, mercher black suit, at 45 degrees of profile. Yet, it was the most illuminated portrait Mikhail had ever seen— as if it had been painted in spring sunshine, or someone had turned up the lamps inside the canvas. His skin was supple and flushed with warmth, a spatter of light freckles high on his cheeks. His dark auburn hair seemed more coppery than usual, curling artfully over his forehead.

This young man wasn’t the odd part of the painting. He was just a beautiful Kerch youth— Mikhail recognised Wylan immediately.

The odd part of the painting was the second man— a tall, wiry Zemeni man in a blue suit and a brash orange tie the colour of jurda blossoms. His handsome face was caught in an eternal grin, like he had a secret far too delicious not to share. A secret he appeared to have just told to Wylan, judging by the twinkle of his wide brown eyes. He looked out at the viewer as if he was trying very hard not to laugh. Jesper leant against the back of Wylan’s chair, one of his multi-ringed hands resting on Wylan’s shoulder. His pale, thin hand was posed to hold it in place just over his heart.

Well, Mikhail blew out a long breath, none of us will ever hear the end of this one… he thought, a little impressed despite himself. Wylan, you’ve certainly put your foot down.

To have a formal portrait commissioned? No one on the council even had their own wives included in their portraits, let alone a cohabitating boyfriend.

“Can you believe it?” A familiar voice came up to whisper in between them. He turned to see Antony Boer, his usually implacable expression wide eyed. He sniffed derisively. “They aren’t even engaged.”

Karl rolled his eyes. “Well, I think it’s brave. And look at the artistry! We must ask Wylan who he commissioned it from, they’ll be the most in-demand ar—!”

“I just don’t want to hear all the bluster from the fossils at the council meetings.” Mikhail griped.

“You won’t have to wait for a council meeting.”

A new voice— a rich baritone he’d never heard before— sent him jumping out of his skin. He nearly dumped his champagne all over his suit.

Jesper Fahey was grinning. That portrait is a magnificent likeness, Mikhail thought begrudgingly.

“The moment Gekkehuis sees it, he’ll be starting a whisper-campaign about tradition and propriety, or something or other.” The Zemeni man sipped his drink, and glanced knowingly at them with storm grey eyes. “Wylan’ll be thrilled you’re here— c’mon, let’s hunt our little merchling down, shall we? Unless you’d rather join the whisper campaign.”

That had Mikhail swallowing his tongue. Maybe he didn’t trust this interloper, but the last thing he wanted was to hurt Wylan.

Thanks for playing ❤️✨

[projectjasper]

hi, i have a question related to nlmg. i saw its number one in your rankings list. and i remember your post about futs. i wanted to ask, is there anything you would’ve written/done differently for nlmg? sorry if you’ve already answered this anytime in the past, i’m new here :)

oh and i also read your palm/neung fic, it was amazing!

hiii, thanks for the fun question! 😌🫶 and thanks so much for the compliment on the fic, it means a lot to me 🥺

in terms of nlmg, as in the main series, really the only thing i'd change would be ben / ben and chopper. i do not like ben. i think he was very shitty to both palm and chopper, and i do not think there was any legwork done to properly redeem him in any way. he definitely needs to stay away from both palm and nueng, but - as for chopper - i would have loved to see him kick ben to the curb. and i think it would have actually been a wonderful parallel to his relationship with his father, with chopper truly learning that he deserves better than the ways in which both ben and his father were treating him. plus, rejecting him, despite still having a crush on him and generally having some complicated feelings towards him, would have been a cool catalyst for him to then also realise he will be better off without his father, even if he is - well - his father.

now, if we also take our skyy 2 into account, i kind of have two answers there.

i do like the our skyy 2 x nlmg episodes and this idea of palmnueng constantly meeting as both different reincarnations of themselves in their universe and also as alternative versions of themselves in other universes is beautiful. the one thing i am adamant about is that palm should have proposed. that scene where he reaches into his pocket and ends up fishing out a passport and a plane ticket? should have been a ring and i will die on this hill! i just think it makes so much sense for palm with how traditionalist he is in some sense, how intensely loyal he is to both nueng and their relationship, and as an additional resolution to the conflict of the episodes, with them getting engaged being sort of a concrete promise of building the life that palm wants for himself and them in the future, although it is postponed due to nueng's desire to further pursue education (but palm should definitely also use that plane ticket, absolutely).

all that said, and this is probably very clear from my fic, but my ideal endgame for nueng is him quitting the company. now, this wouldn't make sense to happen by the end of the original series with all its specific events, but - since we did get an opportunity for a bit of a sequel - i kind of wish that was what it focused on. with my fic, i tried to explore an alternative scenario, in which nueng's life takes such a drastically devastating and lonely turn that he comes to the conclusion that he wants to quit the company in a pretty dramatic way. but i think jojo was kind of softly making his way towards the same possibility with nueng going abroad to study something completely unrelated to business and to pursue his true passion. and, ideally, i would have wanted nueng to actually get there in canon and tell his mom that he is not going to carry the company on his shoulders in the name of his father's ghost anymore. i wish that for him, complete freedom.

[honeyjars-sims]

1.48 Blessed

Bonnie: Any sign of the twins yet?

Trinity: They’re heading to the staircase now.

Bonnie: Oh, good. I was starting to get worried that they wouldn’t show. I never know about your brother. That reminds me, don’t say anything to him about your dad being out of jail.

Trinity: Why not?

Bonnie: Because I’m really trying to work on our relationship and I feel like it’ll just set him off. I’ll tell him later, but I don’t want to make this situation any harder than it already is.

[The doorbell rings and Bonnie lets Johnny and Chantal inside]

Bonnie: It’s so good to see you!

Johnny: You too!

Chantal: You look so grown, Trin!

Trinity: Yeah, right. I need a growth spurt already. I’m the shortest kid in my grade.

Johnny: It’ll happen before you know it.

Chantal: Yeah, I grew a few inches practically overnight when I became a teenager.

Bonnie: Are you sure neither of you will be able to come for Christmas?

Chantal: Sorry, but we just have a lot going on with Dad and Pops.

Bonnie: I know, I know…I just don’t see why you can’t come here just one time. You’ve spent the past few Christmas’ with them, and I just think–

Johnny: Mom, you know we don’t like it when you meddle into our relationship with our dads. Besides, I have plans with my girlfriend, too.

Chantal: Look, we’re here now, so let’s just try to enjoy our time together, ok?

Bonnie: You’re right. So, Johnny, is this the same girl you were telling me about before?

Johnny: Yeah, her name is Lexie. She’s really great.

Chantal: You should see them together. They’re so into each other. It’s adorable!

Bonnie: I’d love to get to meet this girl you’re so smitten with.

Johnny: Sure, maybe one day. 

Bonnie: Do you know what you’re getting her for Christmas yet?

Johnny: I’m not sure. I had an idea, but shopping is harder than I expected.

Trinity: You should get her a ring. That’s what Demarcus is getting me.

Chantal: A ring??? You’re not trying to get engaged at your age, are you?

Trinity: No way, I’m still a kid! I just like jewelry. 

Johnny: Wait, how do you know he's getting you a ring?

Trinity: Um, because I told him to!

Bonnie: Are you seeing anybody, Chantal?

Chantal: No, I’ve been too busy with work and school and everything. I’ve really been liking my job, though. I already got my first bonus!

Bonnie: That’s wonderful, baby! And don’t you worry, you’ll find a man when you’re ready. You’re too beautiful to be single for long.

Chantal: Ok, mom.

Bonnie: I’m just so glad that all of my kids are doing so well. I know it hasn’t been perfect, but I feel really blessed right now.

Johnny: Yeah, so do I.

Chantal: Me too!

Trinity: Oh my God, you guys are so embarrassing. I’m going to go to my room before you make me sick.

Johnny: Aw, don't go Trinity! We love you so much, our little pookie bear!

Trinity: Ugh, gross!!!

Previous | Beginning of story | Beginning of chapter | Next

[jerzwriter]

Hot Idea

Book:              Open Heart (Post Series)

Pairing:           Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Kaycee MacClennan)

Rating:            Teen

Words: 990

Summary: Ethan & Kaycee are poolside on one of the hottest days in Boston's history; Ethan's eager to go inside until Kaycee mentions wedding planning. Then, there's a brilliant idea.

A/N: This is loosely based on an old ask from @potionsprefect. I think this took place just days after Kaycee got her official engagement ring in As Planned. And look at me keeping it under 1,000 words!

It was sweltering outside. One of the hottest days in Boston’s history, bound to break all records. Ethan removed his sunglasses, or maybe they slid off; he was undoubtedly sweating enough for that. After a long chug of ice water, he rolled over on his lounger to address his fiancee.

“If there is a god, she intended for days like this to be spent one way… and one way alone.”

Despite the heat, Kaycee couldn’t help but grin. “If and she. There is a reason I said yes to you, Ethan.”

“And that’s what it is,” he smirked. “I assumed one of my many other talents made you arrive at that decision.”

“It was a million little reasons. But tell me, how did the possible goddess intend for us mere mortals to spend days like this?”

“Indoors,” he deadpanned. “Where it’s air-conditioned.”

“Poolside isn’t good enough for you?” She teased.

“Before dating you, I didn’t know my condo had a pool. Does that answer your question?”

“Well, it is boiling,” she agreed. “And it’s our only day off this week; we probably should go inside and start discussing wedding plans.”

“You know,” Ethan said, reclining in his chair. “If we drink more water, it’s entirely bearable out here.”

Kaycee reached for her glass of ice water and playfully tossed it atop Ethan’s bare chest.

“HEY!” He hollered.

“What? If ingesting the water will keep you cool… and away from discussing wedding plans… I figured external application would merely assist you.”

“You realize I have a glass right next to me, and I’m not above retaliation.”

Reaching over, Kaycee stole his glass and chugged the water in its entirety. “There! Now, that threat is eliminated.”

“But there is still ice,” Ethan winked. “And you know our history with ice.”

“Mmm,” she hummed. “Nice attempt at deflection… but I’m not letting you off the hook. Why are you so unwilling to discuss wedding plans with me? If I hadn’t received two beautiful proposals, I’d think you had cold feet.”

 “It’s not you,” he sighed. “Or the marriage. I’d head down to City Hall today and make it legal. It’s… the wedding…”

“I know,” Kaycee sighed, slumping back into her chair. “I’m not all jazzed about that part either.”

“Wait,” Ethan exclaimed. “You’re not? I assumed you’d want a big, fancy thing with all the trimmings.”

“Have I ever alluded to that?”

“No,” Ethan agreed. “But you went on and on about how you liked Reynaldo’s wedding in the City.”

“I did. For Reynaldo, but it’s just not… me.”

“Your mother would kill us if we eloped,” Ethan stated.

“Without question,” Kaycee laughed. “My Mom is part of the problem. I know she means well, but she’s Italian. She can’t help herself. A wedding means a church, hundreds of distant cousins I never knew I had, and a dress that would make Cinderella look understated.”

“Hundreds?” Ethan moaned.

“Don’t worry,” Kaycee smiled, gripping his hand. “We aren’t doing any of that. But… I have to the talk I’ve been avoiding with my mother.”

Ethan removed his glasses and looked at her sincerely. “Kaycee, what do you want?”

Kaycee closed her eyes, a slow smile spreading on her face. “I want a pretty dress, but nothing fussy. I want our closest friends and family there, but no one else. Good food, drinks, music, and laughter are musts, and at the end of the day, I better be married to you. But outside of that… I don’t care.”  

“Well, I approve of that,” he beamed. “So, how do we go about doing this?”

“I’ll talk to Mom. She’ll come around… eventually… with my father’s help,” Kaycee sighed. “Her heart’s in the right place, but. I wish I could avoid the headaches. Maybe we should plan a surprise wedding,” she laughed.

Ethan’s eyes went wide. “Kaycee! You’re brilliant!”

“I am?” she asked. “I mean, I am... but why now?”

“That’s a perfect idea! We plan the wedding… something simple to our liking. Then, we invite everyone to our ‘engagement party,’ and when they show up… SURPRISE! We’re getting married!”

“Wait… are you serious?”

“I’ll admit it’s unorthodox, but….”

“But I freaking love it!” Kaycee gushed.  

She jumped on Ethan’s lap before he knew what hit him. Peppering him with dozens of little kisses, the remnants of her pink lip gloss leaving slight kiss marks all over his face.

“Would you stop,” he chuckled. “We’re in public!”

“Ethan Jonah Ramsey! We have done far worse in public, and you know it! Do you really think we can do this?

“We can do whatever we want,” he assured. “I just have one request.”

“What’s that?”

“I want it to be soon. I’ve never seen the point in long engagements, and if we aren’t going to have a gala to prepare for, I see no need to delay.”

“Ethan Ramsey rushing to the alter,” she giggled. “Who could have predicted this?”

“OK, wiseass,” he smiled. “Stay on topic! Where should we have this? Mistral has a private room; we could look into that.”

“As much as I love Mistral, that is a little stuffier than I envision.”

“OK!” He snapped his fingers. “La Famiglia in North End, it’s one of your favorite places. It’s Italian, so your mother will be somewhat happy… it’s perfect!”

“It could be,” she pondered. “But I was thinking…Oh my God!” she gasped.

“What?”

“Our vacation! The house rental on the Cape!”

“We could do it there!” Ethan enthused.

“It’s perfect! Do you agree?”

“I agree… there’s only one problem.”

“What’s that?”

“Kaycee, it’s three weeks away.”

“So we better get moving,” she said, jumping from her chair. Let’s get into that air conditioning you were talking about. We have a wedding to plan.”

“You know,” he grinned as they walked toward the elevator. “This was all part of my master plan to get you inside.”

“Ethan?”

“Yes.”

“Hush.”

“Ah, it’s like we’re married already.”

Tagging separately.

[ladykissingfish]

*Sasori and Deidara by a river on a warm day; Sasori is washing their clothes and cloaks, and Deidara is bathing a little further downstream*

Sasori, sighing: These things are so dirty … and that last trip really did a number on our cloaks. No matter how hard I scrub, I keep finding more and more sand in-between the folds.

Deidara: Our shit got pretty torn, too. When that stuff is dry, we’re going to have to sew up all the holes and rips, hm. 

Sasori: Heh; this is the one thing I miss having my grandmother around for. She always took care of tedious chores like this. If I still had an organic body, I’m sure my arms and shoulders would be terribly achy by now.

Deidara: Oi, don’t forget, I did offer to help you, Danna, hm.

Sasori: No no; you just focus on cleaning yourself. I’d wager you’re dirtier than anything I’m working on.

Deidara: Gee, what a kind thing to say. *lowers himself down and begins wetting his hair* But you know, when we’re married, I’ll be doing most of the chores, anyway. Although you don’t eat, hm, so I guess cooking for myself won’t really be a chore …

Sasori: Married? Whenever did I express a desire to be married? 

Deidara: Oh, come on, Sasori. You know you love me and want to be with me for forever.

Sasori: Me loving you and us getting married are not mutually exclusive concepts, my dear. Are you washing behind your ears?

Deidara: *picks up his wash cloth and starts scrubbing the area in question* Don’t try and change the subject, Danna. This is serious. We’re at the point in our relationship where it’s time to give each other some ideas about the future, hm.

Sasori: You want assurances? Alright, that’s fair. I promise I’ll always love you. I promise I’ll always take care of you, and protect you, even if that means protecting you from yourself. I promise I’ll always listen to you and respect your opinions and —

Deidara: Sounds a lot like marriage vows to me, Sasori. *rises from the water and walks to the sunny riverbank, where a sun-warmed towel is waiting for him*

Sasori: You know, I’d have never imagined that such a thing would hold such importance to you, Dei. You certainly don’t strike me as being a traditionalist.

Deidara: I’m not, but you’re right, this IS important to me. *speaks softly* All my life, I never had anything that I felt was completely, 100 percent mine. Getting married, being able to show a ring on my finger, knowing that I belong to someone and they belong to me, and only me, it means a lot to me. And the person I want for that? The one I want holding my hand and yelling at me when I’m being reckless and telling me to wash behind my ears? That’s you. Idiot.

Sasori, smiling: You’re quite rude, aren’t you? No matter; you’ve given me some things to consider, Deidara. No promises, but I will be seriously thinking over what you said. Alright?

Deidara: Alright, hm. Thanks, Danna. 

Sasori: And just for the record, or for your peace of mind … I DO belong to you. All of me, ring or no ring. And you know something? If my grandmother and I were still on speaking terms, I’d be rushing you to Suna to introduce you to her.

Deidara: Aw, Danna! That’s so sweet, hm! You really mean that?

Sasori: Of course. I’ve been trying to find a way to take that old biddy out for years; hard considering, like me, she’s built up a powerful immunity to poisons. BUT if she sees me, the grandson she swore would always be alone, with a beautiful spouse? Instant heart attack. Wouldn’t even have to touch her; it’d be the perfect crime! 

Sasori: And then we could go around doing the same to everyone else in Suna that doubted me. We could take out the whole damn village in one fell swoop!

Sasori: And then, my dear, you could engage your art and completely blow Suna off the map. And we could have our wedding night on top of the smoldering ashes.

Deidara:

Deidara: It bothers me how much of a turn-on I think that is, hm.