#obviously your reply can just be two lines and I'll adapt but I wanted you to know that

[smiletimeisrunningout]

@fantasywritten liked this

"Emma." Emma had swung around ready to stab and stopped, mouth falling open as she stared up at him, at the monster that still infested her dreams - he couldn't be there. It wasn't real. But she was still frozen on the spot, her arm falling and letting her knife drop on the ground as her eyes followed his movements, and suddenly she was just a girl again, facing the man who had nearly ripped her heart out a decade ago. And because she had stopped fighting, obviously no one had attacked; she could feel the confusion in Kate's voice as she called her name, saw Jack look at them, feet behind him. And then with one hit of the back of his hand he sent her flying and rolling down the slope. She heard the others shout for her and tried to regain her breath, head spinning after hitting a rock, and heard the noises of her friends fighting, trying to reach her, but he was on her a moment later, punching her straight in the face. And again, and again, and again. "Told you it wasn't over," he gloated, and she instinctively tried to crawl away in between the hits, but he kicked her to turn her again-and then moved to avoid being shot. Emma saw his grin right before he ran through the trees again but couldn't do anything except cough and spit blood, curling on the ground and trying to soothe the pain in her ribs.

After the general panic she had been carried to the tent and tended by a surprisingly gentle, if shocked, Jack who tried to ask a few questions about how she obviously knew him, but got no answers, with Kate brushing her hair soothingly while he had to stich her shoulder from the fall and check on her broken face. She kept staring at the tent, arms crossed against her stomach, eyes shining with unshed tears while she heard them talk about her outside, and felt Sayid come in because yes, of course they'd send him in, or let him in if he felt bad enough for her even though they weren't on the best terms now, and she hated how much she wanted to hide in his arms and let him comfort her, protect her-she wasn't a girl anymore, damn it. She was a woman, she knew how to fight. And he was the last person she could ask for help to. He had felt lied to and betrayed. She didn't deserve his help. She wanted him to be there so badly. "It was that guy." Her voice was as broken and small as she had expected it to be, and she unfolded her arms enough to let her finger trace down the scar on her chest. "From my nightmares."

[acanvasofabillionsuns]

[ID: A tweet by Mark Arby @/markarby that says, "Not sure how it happened but a bus crashed into a building near Tottenham Court Road Station. Police, Fire Brigade and ambulance in attendance." There are two pictures attached of a yellow double decker bus crashed into a large building, one from behind and the other from the side. All the other images are replies to this tweet.

The first reply is by BBC London, saying, "Hi Mark, we hope you're OK. Would BBC London please be able to use your images in our coverage?" Mark responds, "Yes, that's absolutely fine."

The second reply is by London Live, saying, "Hi Mark, hope you are ok. Would we be able to share this video with credit to you please? Thanks." Mark responds, "It's not a video, just photos but yes, you can use them."

The third reply is by Dan Falvey (who has a verification check mark along with a GBN logo next to his username), who asks, "Hi Mark, hope you're okay. Can GB News use this image for our coverage? - with credit, of course." Mark responds, "No, I don't want anything to do with GB News. You don't have my permission."

From here, the replies get much less official and sillier. Jamie Crichton replies, "Hi Mark would it be okay to adapt your story into a feature film screenplay? In advanced discussions with Keanu Reeves but we've got Keith Chegwin in reserve." Mark responds, "Hi Jamie, I hope you're OK. Yes on the film screenplay but I want Rege-Jean Page to play me."

Greggg Wallace replies, "Hi Mark, hope you're OK. Would it be okay for me to spell okay like this rather than OK with credit to you?" (As o-k-a-y rather than capitalized O-K) Mark responds, "Hi Gregg, I'm great thanks, I hope you're OK too. I'll contemplate the best way to spell OK/okay at my next morning gym session, not as early as yours though. Have a great day and continue spreading your joy."

Steve Sales (he/him) replies, "Hey Mark, I'd like to use this as my phone's wallpaper but with absolutely no credit. Is that ok?" Mark responds, "Yes, of course."

Joanna Di-Bella replies, "Hi Mark- is it OK if all teachers in the land use this as a photo prompt for writing newspaper reports?" Mark responds, "I'm always happy to help teachers, you do such an amazing job."

Seán Clarke replies, "Hi mark I saw a frog. Would you like to use the picture? With credit of course." Attached is an image of a frog on asphalt. Mark responds, "No, I would like to save the frog before it gets run over by a bus."

HAJiME (emoji of an arrow pointing right with "soon" under it) Megacon BHAM replies, "Hi Mark, hope you're ok, can I get this tattooed on my arse?" Mark responds, "Yes, as long as they use a rusty needle."

Can't be blank replies, "Hi Mark, hope you're OK. (line break) Nothing else, just want to make sure you're having a good day!" Mark responds, "Thank you for asking, I'm having a busier day than I expected but all's good. I hope your day has been OK."

Ali replies, "Hi Mark, I hope you are ok. Would I be able to have these images burned into my retina with credit to you please?" Mark responds, "Yes, you can do what you like but don't credit me."

James Ratcliff replies, "Hi Mark. I hope you're ok. I'm at a bar with some friends, is it ok if I show them your photos, with a credit?" Mark responds, "Yes as long a you get me a pint of London Pride."

MJ | conversation killer (sparkles emoji) replies, "Hi Mark, hope you're OK. I see you posted these photos and notice they are already credited to you. Is this OK? Thanks." Mark responds, "Yes, that's fine."

EAFC COIN STORE (trademark emoji) replies, "Hi Mark. I hope you're OK, Is it acceptable if I don't use your image and give no credit, ovcourse. Cheers." Mark responds, "Yes, absolutely. May I use your tweet and not give you any credit too? I hope you're OK and having a joyous day."

gary replies, "Hi Mark. Would it be ok if I took tomorrow off work? Obviously giving you credit for it?" Mark responds, "I'm afraid not, the UK economy is relying on you working to save it, especially as there is one less bus to get people to work tomorrow."

DiscipleOfTron replies, "Hi Mark, hope you are ok. Is it okay if i take this and use it as promotional imaging for my new album im releasing?" Mark responds, "That will depend on how my negotiations with Beyoncé goes as she asked first. I hope you're OK too."

mike! (snowflake emoji) replies, "hi mark can i use your photos to make a tweet relating to hit eighties band the smiths and their song 'there is a light that never goes out', concerning the popular lyrics 'and if a double decker bus crashes into us.'" Mark responds, "Heaven Knows I'm Miserable Now after reading that suggestion." Heaven Knows I'm Miserable Now is capitalized, referencing a different Smiths song by that title.

Gary Lee Wadsworth replies, "Hi Mark, would it be OK if I printed off these pictures, tore them into strips and ate them, with full credit to you of course." Mark responds, "Yes of course but give the credit instead to the Gaviscon you will need after doing that." (Gaviscon is an antacid used for upset stomachs.)

Gerboa replies, "Hi Mark. I hope you are okay? Have you got any other photos? They don't have to be of buses or crashes or owt. We'll give full accreditation of course." Mark responds, "Yes on OnlyFans."

The final reply is from someone with a username of a long smiley face, consisting of six underscores, ^_^, and seven more underscores, saying, "Hi Mark, I hope you're not okay." Mark responds, "Sorry to disappoint because I'm feeling fantastic." End ID]

[ggomos-maribat]

D-DAY Chapter 2 | 244 Days Before

Her contact hadn't been modest in his description of Gotham. The city was as insipid as he told her, with puffs of mixed clouds and smog looming over. not as guards but as judgmental observers. Muted colors accompanied black umbrellas and gray pavements. Even the greener areas was a smudge in the scenery, rather than a striking element of surprise.

Marinette pushed on the gates of the manor. She had one pink suitcase, a matching purse, and a will to survive the city.

At first, she had planned to rent a humble apartment but when a family friend had caught news of her visit, he immediately urged her to reside in the manor instead. She jumped at the offer rather quickly when he mentioned that she could earn some money as his assistant.

"Marinette, it's good to see you." Alfred welcomed her at the door, helping her with the luggage.

She gave a smile and a wave. "Alfred, hello. Thanks for inviting me again."

The interior of the house exceeded the grandiosity she had seen in her rich friends' abodes. She couldn't help but gawk at the chandelier and pristine carpeting. Alfred manages all of this on his own?

"The masters are not around at the moment," said Alfred. "Shall I take you to the bedroom and tour you around the house?"

"Sure." She nodded.

The prepared bedroom looked comfy enough. Alfred had even added a sewing machine for her to use. After the tour, they headed to the back gardens for afternoon tea and snacks.

"How did you find the trip here? I would've fetched you if you told me about your flight schedule." Alfred set down two cups of green tea on the table, along with an array of pastries.

She laughed a little. "Exactly why I never told you. I just got a cab."

His expression was tinged with disapproval; she sounded like she was making herself a clear target for crime. Despite this, Alfred didn't comment on it. "What do you think of Gotham so far?"

"Just like how you said it would be." Marinette shrugged. "Guess I have to get in touch with my depressive side to fit in."

"It does take some time to get used to."

"I'll try to adapt more quickly."

"I'm happy you volunteered to take some work off my hands," said Alfred, as he passed her the sugar. "You will be on kitchen duty most of the time. I'm certain the masters will appreciate a new style of cooking."

Marinette brought the teacup to her lips, savoring its warmth against the cool weather. "I can help with anything you ask, don't worry."

"I wouldn't want to get in the way of your other . . . responsibilities."

Other responsibilities. She pursed her lips.

"I have more than enough time for them," she assured. "Speaking of cooking, is there anything I need to know? Allergies and restrictions? Likes and dislikes?"

Alfred took a piece of cheese bread. "Not everyone in the family stays in the manor everyday, but there are times where they do dine together. As for restrictions, I have prepared some lists for your perusal."

"Of course you have," Marinette smiled, eyes glittering. She and Alfred were similar like that.

"If you would like, you can also help in ordering our groceries if there are any ingredients you wish to purchase."

She reached for a puff pastry, still warm from the oven. "I was thinking of baking something as a 'thank you' for taking me in. You said the family will be around for dinner tonight . . . how about macarons?"

"Macarons would be wonderful. I believe I have the ingredients stocked," Alfred replied.

Although cooking and baking weren't first in line for her career options, Marinette was satisfied with gaining new experiences.

"I must warn you about the boys. They can be quite a handful." Judging from the exasperation in his tone, Alfred seemed to stand by that on a daily basis.

"Not as chaotic as my friends, hopefully."

"I would say they can be a headache." He sighed. "If they give you trouble, feel free to inform me."

The Wayne family . . . She had done her fair share of research. Obviously, there was much more than what the public knew. She was already aware of their nightly escapades, but she'd never dare tell them that she was in the know.

Marinette leaned back on the chair.

"How are your Guardian duties?"

Her lip caught between her teeth. She didn't expect him to bring it up. "It's going well," she responded coolly, touching one of her earrings. "I brought two Miraculouses with me but I don't plan on using them that much. Only for emergencies."

"The kwamis?"

"I'll make sure to keep them hidden." She needed to avoid unwanted attention after all.

"If you need help, you're welcome to ask me." Alfred poured another cup of tea. "You need a healthy recovery. I do think Gotham is not the best place for it, however a getaway from Paris is suitable."

No. Leaving Paris won't do anything different. I'm not here to escape from it. I'm here for something else. She swallowed. A part of her regretted telling Alfred about Paris.

Her gaze lowered. "Yes, I'll keep that in mind."

---

Tim padded down the stairs wrapped in a blanket from the top of his head, down to his ankles. The manor was quiet. It usually was. Heavy curtains hung motionlessly, barring the sunlight from intruding. Oak furniture held nothing but lifeless objects with dust littered inside nooks and crannies. The hallway seemed to stretch for miles. Empty. Hollow.

It was like the Drake Manor all over again.

He was lucky Alfred persuaded him to get some sleep. If he hadn't spent the hours in his slumber, he would've collapsed in the middle of the meeting. But the problem with sleeping was that his extra work would pile up, and he'd spiral into a draining schedule once again.

Work. Eat. Work. Drink coffee. Patrol. Work. And repeat.

He wouldn't mind extra company. But the others had lives of their own, immersed in their timelines that seldom crossed with his. If he voiced out his complaints, he was sure they wouldn't take him seriously if they were even there to listen to him in the first place.

And so he trudged, dragged his starving body along the hall, thinking maybe—maybe—if he reached out to any of his siblings, at least one would try to spend time with him.

Tim took one step into the kitchen and froze. "Who are you?"

Everything hit him at the same time: the scent of baked pastries, the heat coming from the oven, the sight of an unfamiliar girl holding a mixing bowl. His unfocused eyes blinked tiredly.

"You must be Mr. Drake. It's nice to meet you." The girl smiled. "I'm Marinette. I'll be helping Alfred around the manor."

Tim blinked again. His fuzzy memories recalled Alfred and Bruce announcing a newcomer, with a warning to hide signs of their vigilante activity. But he couldn't remember the specifics.

He eyed her suspiciously.

"Did Alfred not mention anything . . .?" The girl frowned.

Tim cleared his throat, taking a seat on one of the barstools. "Yeah, sorry I kind of forgot."

He completely forgot. He would've done a background check if he had a clear mind during the past few days. Not that Bruce or Alfred wouldn't have done one as well. He was cautious of strangers he knew nothing about, especially if they were allowed inside the manor.

"It's all good. I'm baking macarons for dinner's dessert. Alfred's trimming in the gardens but I'll let him know you're awake." Marinette pointed to a metal tray. "Would you like me to make you something? Brunch? Snacks?"

His stomach growled loudly. Tim blushed. "Brunch, please."

She nodded. "Any preferences?"

"Anything edible, thank you."

She grabbed a plate of the macarons and handed it to him. "Here, help yourself while I prepare."

Tim took a yellow piece between his fingers as he stared at it. It wouldn't be smart to readily accept it from someone he didn't know yet. But if Alfred knows her and trusts her enough, that's okay, right? He took one bite. A sour flavor erupted in his mouth, satiating a part of his appetite.

He took more macarons as he watched her glide around the kitchen. Short stature, agile, dark hair, he noted, an accent . . . she's not from around here.

"So where did you come from?" Tim asked.

"Paris," she answered breezily. "Alfred's a longtime friend of my grandmother. He suggested I come work here when I mentioned my trip to Gotham."

"Why the sixth circle of hell?"

Marinette laughed a bit. "Opportunities. Some friends of mine have connections in Gotham, so I'm thinking of reaching out to them."

Still, coming to Gotham of all places was rather sketchy. He'd have to look more into her reasons during the background check.

"Does that include Wayne Industries?"

Pink tinted her cheeks. "Yeah, it does. Oh, but I'm not planning to take advantage of my work here or anything like that!"

The corner of his lips tugged upwards. "Too bad, I was planning to give you an easy way in as co-CEO."

She narrowed her eyes at him. "I'd rather earn my merits, Mr. Drake."

"Tim. Call me Tim."

"Tim," she repeated.

Marinette moved towards an open binder propped on top of a chair. Tim took a peek and saw that it was a set of instructions from Alfred. She continued her cooking before finally giving him a steaming cup of coffee (and she knew to use his favorite mug!)

The first sip took him to the heavens. The ambrosia drink burned his tongue but satisfied the junkie in him. It was unlike anything he'd tasted before.

"This is amazing," he rasped out.

"My personal brew!" She chirped. "I tend to pull a lot of all-nighters myself."

He'd drink it everyday. Inject it into his bloodstream if he could. Marinette must've seen his stunned expression. "Are you leaving for work today? I can pack you a thermos," she said.

His eyebrows shot up. "I'd like that."

Tim eagerly sipped on his coffee as the smell of brunch wafted around in the room. Doesn't matter if it's poisoned, he decided, this is my new drug.

He pouted at the empty mug afterwards. "If you can make this everyday . . ."

"I'll make sure to have it on hand all the time."

Finally, she slid the plate food in front of him before grabbing a cup of coffee for herself and settling by the bar. Tim held himself back from wolfing down the whole thing in seconds.

"I have to admit, I didn't expect anyone from the family to be home," she told him, drinking her coffee. "Alfred said I'll be meeting everyone tonight."

He grimaced. "I think he assumed that I won't be waking up until later today. Actually, I usually stay in my apartment, not in the manor. Sorry."

"No, no, don't apologize. I was just a bit surprised." She ran her thumb on the cup handle. "I don't mind the company."

I don't mind the company.

He could say the same for her. As they fell into a continuous conversation, Tim slowly compared her to a breath of fresh air, a wave of color in the restrictive walls of the manor. The kitchen felt alive with her in it. The entire manor even.

"What do you do that makes you so sleep-deprived, by the way?" he asked.

"Clothing commissions, designing, my online courses," she listed off. "Making sure my friends don't get into trouble. I also helped in my family's bakery."

A fashion designer, he stored the thought away for later. "Sounds like a lot." He lifted a spoonful of food. "More hectic than my life."

"I'm sure you're busier." She shook her head, ponytail swaying. "I can't imagine what it's like to oversee a company of your own."

"Yeah, I won't recommend that life." Not to mention the vigilante gig.

"Before I forget." She set her cup aside and laced her fingers together. "Do you have any advice for meeting your family?"

Bruce will pull out his faux persona either way, he wanted to answer, and the others will be too preoccupied to pay attention to you. It was even a miracle they'd be getting together for dinner.

"You don't have to be nervous, they're not—err—stuck-up people if that's what you're worried about," he replied. "Alfred's already vouching for you. It's not like they can change his decision. Also, your macarons are enough to win them over."

Her lips parted. "You think the macarons are good?"

"More than good."

"Will you be here tonight?"

There's papers to be signed. Background check. Monitoring. Board meetings. Project proposals. Emails to be answered. That one favor for Babs that I haven't finished.

"Sure, I'll be there."

Marinette smiled widely. Her radiance seemed to spread around the place. It was strange for her to be in gloomy, ruthless Gotham. She was an outsider among outsiders. At the same time, Tim couldn't say that her presence was unpleasant.

She went back to the kitchen counter to brew more coffee for his thermos. "I'll pack macarons with this, if you want."

"Can I get two boxes? I'll give one to my assistant as a peace offering."

She chuckled. "Of course."

Tim's gaze flickered to his empty plate. He was full. Energy buzzed in him. The loneliness had somewhat disappeared.

When was the last time I felt like this?

He blew out a shaky breath whilst watching Marinette. She was still a mystery. He was yet to know everything about her but his subconscious already chose to trust her. Breath hitching at the realization, he gripped the edge of the bar.

Tim rubbed both his eyes. I have to start coming to the manor more often. 

chapter list | prev | next

AO3 Link

Taglist: @tinybrie

[atalho-s]

Light Up The Dark

Part 2 | We are accidents waiting to happen

pairing: bartender!tom x famous!reader

warnings: smut +18 miniors dni, swear words?, drinking, let me know if anything else!

words: 5.0 k

a/n: english it’s not my first language, so i’m sorry for any mistake! I don’t have a taglist yet, but if you want to be tagged in the next chapters let me know!! 

PART 2 if you want to read part 1 click here! 

It was already Saturday. The day Y/n took for herself. Writing was extraordinary, but she loved having a day off to take care of herself. She spent the day doing things she enjoyed, whether it was lying in bed watching a movie or trying to cook something.

After the fateful day of writer's block she started writing like crazy, so she didn't feel guilty about taking a day off without thinking about her characters and how they would get out of the challenges she had created for them.

The fateful day. For some reason she kept thinking about that damned Brit with that accent. For a moment she'd been scared that she'd been seen by paparazzi hanging out with the mysterious bartender, or even some picture of him leaving her apartment. But nothing came out in the news on the gossip sites, which made her relieved.

As much as she deserved to have fun once in a while and wasn't doing anything wrong, she still didn't want to bring attention to herself and even less to a guy who wasn't even famous. She was afraid to put anyone who wasn't famous in the media. Fear that one day suddenly, this person might be persecuted because of her.

Anyway, it had just been a crazy night. Nothing much. And she didn't intend to see him again. So she had nothing to worry about.

Sitting down in the kitchen counter with her familiar cup of coffee she got lost in some thoughts. Why hadn't she stopped thinking about him ever since? It had been a great night, but that was all. She didn't even know him well.

Maybe it was because her creative block had been broken after being with him. But obviously it was just a coincidence. She had just felt inspired after a distraction.

She shook his head away from the thoughts and placed the cup in the sink. She took a deep breath and thought about what to do next. But before she could think of anything else her cell phone started ringing on the counter. She was almost jump by the sudden sound, seeing the screen indicating that it was Milla, her agent, who had become one of her best friends.

- Hi Mil! - she said after sliding the screen.

- Good morning baby. - she said on the other end of the line. - Ready for the party?

- Party? What a party? - Y/n asked confused starting to wash the small amount ofdishes she had soiled.

- How you don't know? I thought I sent you the invitation on your email and I even sent you a message!

- Bestie, I haven't seen my email or message for days. I was super focused on the book, my writer's block finally went away.

- Really? I knew that would go away! You were worried for nothing. What did you do to go back to writing? - Milla asked and Y/n smiled a little.

- Well... I just went out to chill out a bit...Nothing much.

- Y/n getting out on weekdays? And even on the days you're writing a book? That's what I call grow. - she said and Y/n rolled her eyes laughing. - I'm even afraid to invite you to parties, because I know when you're writing you hate to go out... But it's good to know that you're getting out of your routine a little...

- Yeah, sometimes it's good to breathe new air. - Y/n replied drying his hands on a towel. - But what party are you talking about?

- A party of none other than Emma Brown. - Y/n snorted. Emma Brown was a great actress who to tell the truth she didn't know much, she only knew her from a couple of her movies, but other than that she didn't know much about her.

But what she did know was that she had some also famous friends of questionable taste. They were those famous people who only knew about money, women, cars and mansions. But she was tipped for a theatrical adaptation of one of her books and she wanted everything to come out perfect. She was very afraid the movie would end up ruining her work.

- Do I really have to go? - She asked in a tearful voice.

- Yes you have! It's going to be a really fancy birthday party for her, all the famous people in the industry are going to be there. You know you have to socialize with these people. Who knows, you can make some important friendships...

- Milla... I don't know... I don't need important friendships. I don't need anyone to stand up or approach others for interest.

- I know you don't need anyone for that... I just meant that you're very isolated, you need to make connections, understand? I know it's hard because you hate all that fame and stuff. But if you want the adaptation of your story to be good, there's no way... Besides, one of the great directors you left me on the list to research will be there too. So it would be really cool to kill two birds with one stone. - Milla said and Y/n sighed. She was right, if she wanted everything to work out she had to at least have a conversation with these people. It would be weird to refuse Emma's invitation to her birthday. It would just show that she was uninterested.

- Okay... You won ok? - She said and Milla gave an excited squeal. - But I won't stay long!

- Okay, okay... Just for you to go is great! Andrew will be there shortly for you to choose a dress. -Andrew was her stylist and she practically jumped every time Y/n had an important event, because it was rare for her to go. Good thing he didn't just have her as a client, because otherwise he'd be bored out of his mind for a long time.

- Okay Mil, thank you... I love you! - She said and Milla said goodbye hanging up the phone.

It was late afternoon when Andrew arrived at her apartment with several suitcases and bags in both hands. He really had brought up thousands of options. But Y/n ended up choosing a slightly shiny black dress that went just above the knee with a V-neck. Something cute, but nothing too fancy.

He did her makeup. Which wasn't too heavy either, as she hated things that were too heavy on her face. Finally she put on a mid-heeled sandal in the same color as the dress and her sparkly earrings. Before Andrew left her apartment satisfied with the result.

It was almost 7:30 pm when a black car that would take her to the party location arrived in front of her building and she got out enter the backseat right after. She was apprehensive. She hated socializing to tell the truth. Large crowds and cameras really made her anxious.

After almost 20 minutes the car stopped in front of what appeared to be a large gate. Several paparazzi showed up and started taking pictures of her car surrounding her or even tapping on the window a little, asking her if she could talk to them. Which she obviously ignored. The driver introduced himself to the doorman and he opened the gate letting the car pass and stop in front of a luxurious mansion.

Some people were coming in and others were standing in front talking. She saw that there were some familiar faces of the media. Actresses, actors, singers, famous people of every imaginable type.

She opened the car door and walked out towards the large entrance. She smiled at a few people, nodding her head as she passed and found herself in a crowd of people as she entered the place. There really were a lot of people, despite the place being even bigger inside. Many with fancy drinks in hand and chatting. A song playing on the background.

She walked deeper into the room and took a quick look around trying to find the birthday girl. After a few minutes she found her near one of the sofas. Y/n walked over and stopped beside her, causing Emma to stop her conversation with two more people and look at her.

- Happy Birthday! - Y/n said in the friendliest way possible and Emma smirked and hugged her lightly afterwards.

- Thank you! Glad you came! - she said, breaking out of the hug after a few seconds.

- Your party is very beautiful, I loved the decoration. - Y/n said looking around. Indeed Emma had decorated the place in a simple way, but at the same time fancy and beautiful.

- Oh thank you... - she said, still smiling. - I'm very happy that you accepted my invitation, we have a lot to talk about since maybe we'll work together, right?

- No problem, obviously I would come... - Y/n said and almost punched herself because she was very fake in saying that. - But we really have to talk!

- Well, I was talking to Jim just now... I can give you his number later... He's a great director and I think it would be great for your adaptation... - Emma said and Y/n thought that she was really interested in that adaptation, because she was even talking to the possible renowned director, which surprised her. She thought Emma was a little more oblivious to her books and even movie stuff. She thought she was one of those famous actresses who expected others to come after her, not being interested in the work itself, but only on the fame and money. - We love your book! I think it has great potential for a grand adaptation.

- Wow, that is good to hear! Thanks a lot! - Y/n said sincerely this time. - I'll love talking to him too...

- Sure! - She looked behind Y/n and motioned to someone from far away. - Hey Jim! You can come here? - She asked speaking loudly for him to hear and Y/n turned around watching the director approaching after saying goodbye to someone. He wasn't much older than she thought, maybe in his early thirties, he wore a small beard that fit his face and short hair, but with curls that jutted out around his head. -That's Y/n... Y/n that's Jim...-Emma said when he got in front of her and Jim held out his hand with a smile.

- Nice to meet Y/n, we finally met... - he said and Y/n shook his hand also smiling.

- Nice to meet you Jim! - She said and Emma sat in one of the armchairs indicating for the two to sit, which they did next.

- Do you two want something to drink? Champagne?- Emma asked and they both accepted as she motioned for someone from far away to bring them.

- Well, I found your book very intriguing Y/n... I can say I haven't slept for a while... - Jim said laughing a little and Y/n smiled. - It's a very well written story, I loved the plots and it has a great resolution. I think I would make a good 2 hour movie with all this material... - he said and Y/n paid attention until something took her a little out of focus. Something not. Somebody.

It was the waiter, and not just any waiter. It was Tom. He came into her vision and she couldn't believe what she was seeing. Maybe it was a mirage or she was mistaking him for someone else. But when he approached she was sure it was him. He came with a tray with drinks in one hand. He was wering a white dress shirt, with black pants. The typical pattern of a fancy party waiter. But he was beautiful. Y/n felt a shiver for a moment and tried to hide it by looking back at Jim who was still talking about his plans for the possible movie.

Maybe Tom didn't even remember her. She was just a one-night stand, he should do that with a lot of girls out there, so it wasn't something new to him. As soon as he arrived, he handed one of the glasses to Emma beside her and Y/n felt her breath quicken a little. She didn't know why she was so nervous. It was just a waiter she had slept with a few days ago.

- Excuse me... - he said and Y/n looked up at him quickly seeing that he was right in front of him. -Here it is miss...-he said looking her in the eyes and then winking at her, wich almost make her shrink in her chair. He held out the tray for her to take one of the glasses and she did, looking away at Jim.

- So, what do you think? - Jim asked taking the glass from the tray and Y/n took a sip of his surprise drink.

- Sorry? - She asked guiltily for having been distracted.

- About us meeting and having a meeting next week? That way I can show you my idea better. - he said and Y/n smiled.

- Of course, that would be great! - she said and Tom walked away not looking in her direction again, which left her disappointed for a second. She would going to love looking into those eyes again.

- Perfect! - Jim replied excitedly and started talking about other things as well as Emma.

They talked for almost an hour, until Emma went to talk to other people and Jim said he was leaving as he had some work in the morning. Y/n sat for a while and finished drinking the last of her champagne and placed it on the table in front of her.

She thought about leaving. She had already done the important interactions for the night. So, she had no reason to stay there. But she kept thinking about the damn waiter. Would it be weird to go talk to him? Maybe just say hi? But she doubted he would want to talk to her. Besides, he was working. She didn't want to get in his way.

Getting up from her chair and straightening her dress, she forced her steps towards the exit, but stopped midway as she saw Tom walking into what appeared to be the kitchen with the tray tucked under his arm. She looked at the exit door and sighed. Okay, if she went to him just to say hi, it wouldn't hurt would it?

Y/n turned and headed in the direction that Tom had gone. She couldn't even believe she was doing it this. She would looked ridiculous in his eyes. But she choose to ignore the little voice of reason again. Passing by a few people, and walking out into a empty hallway, she opening a single door at end. She closed in behind her and turned to see that Tom was on his back piling some boxes in a corner. His muscles in that outfit made her feel tempted somehow, so she swallowed hard. He turned at the sound of the door closing and looked at her with a mixture of confusion and curiosity.

- Looking for something madam? - He asked with a smirk.

- Actually... - Y/n thought of some excuse, maybe it would be better, so it would seem that she was there for something else and not for him. - Yeah... I was looking for the bathroom, I think I take the wrong direction...

- Yeah...Actually, the bathroom is on the other side of the hallway... - he said leaning against the kitchen counter and looking her up and down, making her feel completely vulnerable. After his eyes roamed her legs and bust, they came to her face and he grinned.

- Okay, I'll... - Y/n started saying and turned around taking a few steps. But she stopped midway, closing his eyes, tearing himself apart from the inside out of embarrassment. She turned around again seeing that he was still watching her, now with his arms crossed over his chest, wondering what she would do next. - You remember me don't you? - She asked fearfully.

- Of course I remember darling... - he said, practically intensifying his accent in that nickname that was so perfect in his voice. Y/n took a few steps forward also crossing her arms. - How could I forget the famous writer Y/n?- He raised an eyebrow and she rolled her eyes with his last sentence.

- It really was an...- She looked at her feet trying to find a word. - Interesting night… - she finally said and he chuckled, making her look up.

- Very interesting indeed... - he said putting his hands in his front pockets, pulling himself away from the counter and heading towards her. Y/n wanted to say goodbye and leave, run away as fast as possible. But she couldn't, every move he did was too tempting, so she just stood there watching him get closer and closer to her. He stopped in front of her and looked into her eyes, smiling slightly.

- What are you doing here? Do you work as a waiter at parties too? - Y/n asked curiously.

- My boss sometimes receives proposals for us to work at these rich parties... - he said with a shrug.

- Oh... Nice... - she said crossing her arms. - Well...Now I really have to go... - she said trying to get away from it one last time.

- Why did you really come here love? -Tom asked tilting his head a little to the side and she felt the hairs on the back of her neck stand up.

- I told you, I was looking for the bathroom. -Y/n looked at his face trying to be firm, but saw that he still wore that smirk. Why did he have to be so confident like that?

- Oh sure... Just like you also looked for some excuse that day for me to leave, but failed miserably?- he asked making a thoughtful face and she still hadn't decided if she wanted to slap him or kiss him.

- Why did you leave without saying goodbye tho? - She asked ignoring what he had said.

- So that's why you came after me? Are you hurt that I didn't leave you a goodbye kiss? - he said pouting.

- Of course not, I just... I don't know, it would be nice to say that you were leaving and that you wouldn't stay for breakfast... - Y/n said looking to the side, avoiding those brown eyes that intimidated her.

- Darling, I'm not that type guy, sorry...

- What type of guy? - she still avoided looking at him.

- The type who stay for breakfeast. -he said taking a hand from her pocket and taking her chin gently, making her look at him. - But if you want some fun I'm at your disposal. -he said and she bit her lower lip lightly making him deviate his eyes towards her lips. - Do you want darling?- he asked quietly and Y/n seemed to be transfixed by her touch. She was surrendered, she couldn't deny it. Maybe even hypnotized.

- I...- she said with a little shaky voice. - I don't know...

- Yes or no?- he asked looking from her lips to her eyes and she felt her breath getting heavy.

- Yes...- she just spoke as a whisper and he smiled satisfied.

- How about you meet me in 15 minutes in the bathroom of the pool house? - He said and she just shook her head slowly. Tom released her chin and backed away slowly, not taking his eyes off her, and then walked away leaving her alone with her heart racing.

Y/n took a deep breath and tried to place herself in what had just happened. Did she really want this? Her mind could try to hear the voice of reason, but it was drowned out by her body's reaction. She wanted to feel him again.

She walked away quickly, passing several people who were talking loudly or who were already drunk. She looked around and saw the door that led to the back side and sneak there, getting out and feeling the slightly chilly night air, closing the sliding door behind her.

She saw the pool that had some people around it and a little further to the right a door that opened into another closed space. Probably the pool house. She walked over there, trying to hide it so no one would see her, and went inside. She closed the front door slowly and headed towards the bathroom.

The place was dark, with only the lights outside. So she was holding her hand into to some stuff until he found the door. She went in and turned on the light. The bathroom was spacious, with a large sink and a huge mirror in front of it. She closed herself off and looked at herself in the reflection.

That was crazy. She had never done that at parties. Not even when she was drunk. And now she was there, looking forward to what might happen. In fact she knew what was going to happen, just as she knew when she invited him up to her apartment that night. But even so, she felt butterflies in her stomach in anticipation.

After almost 10 minutes of waiting she heard the bathroom door open and she turned in the direction, feeling extremely anxious. Tom came in looking over his shoulder and closed the door soon after, looking at her with an opening grin. He locked the door slowly with one hand and came towards her in a hurry.

The next thing she felt was his lips pressing against hers urgently. He kissed her like it was the last thing he would do. Running her tongue over her lips asking permission and Y/n opened it slowly letting him explore her mouth with his burning tongue.

She ran her hand around the back of his neck pulling his hair and he responded by holding her waist tightly. Tom walked forward and she leaned her back against the sink counter. Making him lift her with agility, sitting her down on the cold surface and getting between her legs. She grunted in surprise against his mouth and he broke the kiss for air. Kissing from her neck to her collarbone and she closed her eyes feeling his touch.

- Tom... - she said in a low voice. - You won't get in trouble if you disappear like that? -he now kissed her neckline and squeezed her thigh with desire.

- Not if we're fast darling. -He spoke a bit husky, moving his kisses to her earlobe, biting lightly and she moaned low. - And despite loving your sounds, you will have to be silent. - He looked at her smiling maliciously. - Promise? -He spoke touching her nose with his lightly, looking at her closely, and she nodded making him attack her lips next.

Still kissing her he pulled the hem of her dress up a little and she bit his lip making him smile against the kiss. Her fingers reached her inner thigh and then moved up to her panties. Tom put the fabric aside with one of her fingers and passed one slowly at her entrance feeling her wetness.

- Always ready for me aren't you darling? -He said pulling his mouth away from hers, staying just a few centimeters away from her. She moaned softly again and he smiled as he pulled her fingers away and replaced them around her thighs pulling her closer to the edge of the sink.  He started to finger her really slowly and she bite her lips, trying to control her moaning. Tom keep his pace just watching her face squirm with pleasure. After seconds he removed his delicious fingers making her almost protest out loud, makind him smile even more. If wasn't for the rush he would definitively make his time with you.

Y/n then put his hands on the collar of his shirt and opened the first buttons. Kissing his neck with desire, making him squeeze her thighs in response. Biting her lips he unfastened his belt and then the buttons of his pants pulled them down along with his boxers, revealing his cock. He pulled her in for one more kiss before taking the condom package from his pocket and opening it, meanwhile Y/n was kissing uncovered place she could reach, from his face to his chest, opening more buttons of his shirt.

Tom adjusted the condom on his cock before taking a few thrusts. He moved even closer to her, if that was even possible, and gave her a peck.

- Ready? He spoke softly against her lips and she nodded almost in despair, wanting to feel him inside her more than anything.

He smiled once more and slid his cock easily as she was completely wet. Tom growled low against her ear and Y/n bit her lip so no sound could come out. He started to move, after she was more adjusted to his size, at first slowly and starting to increase his pace with each second.

-Fuck... - he cursed softly against her ear and she pulled the hair from his neck with one hand, while the other squeezed his shoulder. The more he increased the pace she felt as if she were coming off the ground. - So tight darling... - he said between small grunts. - Feels so good...

- Tom... - Y/n spoke and he increased the pace even more making her moan with the sudden sensation of pleasure and he muffled her sounds by sticking his lips on hers.

-Shh… - he said after moving his lips from hers and Y/n tried her best to keep the sounds to herself, but he filled her perfectly and made her feel so good that she couldn't help it. Tom smirked and put his hand over her mouth, covering her moans. - Can't contain yourself? -he said and kissed her neck giving light bites and hickeys. -You're so easy for me, love... Look at you...- he spoke in a low voice, while still holding his hand firm in her mouth and kissing below her ear. - So easy...- he said going faster, as if it were possible, and bit his lower lip trying to contain his own moans this time, touching his nose to her cheek.

- Please…- she managed to speak muffled against his hand, feeling her orgasm quickly building.

- I know sweetheart... - he said making her feel his heavy breath into her cheek. -I got you ...-he finally said and that was enough for her orgasm to release with force, making him also come right after her with one last muffled grunt against her neck. He continued to move slowly for a few more seconds, before coming to a complete stop. The two of them with their breaths out of control. Reaching their high.

After a few minutes Tom took his hand from her mouth and soon after took his member out of her slowly. The two were silent the entire time. Y/n felt empty as  soonTom walked away to clean up, still half dazed from all the pleasure she just felt. He cleaned himself up and discarded the condom, zipping his pants and turned around, buttoning his shirt right away. Y/n didn't take her eyes off every move he made and he smiled approaching her.

- Want some help darling? - he asked standing in front of her and she held in his arms before he helped her getting down from the sink. She felt a little dizzy and if it wasn't for him holding her she thought she would fall. - You're right? - he asked still holding her on her waist.

- Yes...Thank you... - she managed to say.

- Well, I have to go, before they notice that I'm gone... - he said, releasing her.

- Of course... - Y/n said. - Tom… - she didn't know what to say. It might be the second time they'd done this, but it still felt like it was the first and she felt somewhat embarrassed. Maybe because she wasn't used to casual sex.

- See you soon? - He said giving a quick kiss on her cheek, fixing his hair in the best way he could and winking as he walked away, going to the door and unlocking it. He got out and closed it behind him while she back staring into the mirror.

She took a deep breath and was trying to figure out what to do next. After cleaning her up she finally got out of there. She crawled to the door and managed to get through the party without the weird looks she thought everyone would send to her when they bumped into her. For some reason she thought everyone would know, but obviously not. She felt weird doing that at an party, it really wasn't like her. But why did she feel so good?

She looked around before heading out of the house, but she didn't find Tom in her vision and she didn't know if that was a good thing or a bad thing. She wanted to look at him one last time from afar, but at the same time she didn't. Maybe that was the last time they were going to do that. She didn't think she'd find him like this anywhere else, and she didn't intend to go to the bar he worked at just to get another night with him. Besides, that's what she was, just one night, just a "quickie" in the bathroom. And everything was fine. He was that for her too, so what did it matter?

For a moment she felt his head fill with ideas. Y/n had a perfect plot for her story now. She had to go home and get back to writing right away. Calling the driver from a distance, she practically ran towards the car.