#photo mug online

[krimsnkramsart]

[crazydesizn]

Personalized Gifts: Why They Make Every Moment Special

Personalized Gifts: Why They Make Every Moment Special

Gift-giving is a beautiful way to show appreciation, love, and care. While any gift can bring joy, personalized gifts have a unique charm that makes them truly unforgettable. They’re more than just presents; they’re heartfelt gestures that capture memories, emotions, and special connections. Let’s explore why personalized gifts make every moment special and why they’re the perfect choice for any occasion.

1. They Show Thoughtfulness and Effort

Personalized gifts demonstrate that you’ve put thought and effort into the gift selection process. Rather than choosing something generic, you’ve taken the time to create something unique that reflects the recipient’s personality, interests, or memories. Whether it’s a mug with a favorite quote, a photo frame filled with cherished memories, or an engraved piece of jewelry, personalized gifts show that you care enough to make the gift truly special.

2. They Create Lasting Memories

One of the best things about personalized gifts is their ability to capture and celebrate special moments. A customized photo album, a personalized calendar with family photos, or a custom wall art piece can instantly bring back memories of happy times. These gifts are more than just objects—they’re keepsakes that preserve moments that might otherwise be forgotten, making them perfect for anniversaries, birthdays, and other milestones.

3. They Strengthen Connections

Personalized gifts have the power to strengthen the bond between the giver and the recipient. They reflect shared experiences, inside jokes, and personal touches that standard gifts can’t offer. For example, a customized mug with a funny quote from a shared moment or a personalized puzzle featuring a favorite family photo can create a deeper connection and remind the recipient of the special relationship you share.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion

No matter the occasion, personalized gifts are always a fitting choice. From weddings and graduations to holidays and just-because moments, there’s always a way to add a personal touch. Customized gifts are versatile, making them suitable for everyone—from kids to grandparents. They can be tailored to suit the specific occasion, whether it’s a heartwarming keepsake for Mother’s Day or a fun, quirky item for a friend’s birthday.

5. They Stand Out in a Crowd

In a world full of mass-produced items, personalized gifts stand out as unique and meaningful. They aren’t just another gift that will be forgotten or set aside. Instead, they catch the eye and hold a special place in the recipient’s heart. Whether it’s a personalized keychain, a custom T-shirt, or a beautifully engraved piece of decor, these gifts leave a lasting impression and are often cherished for years to come.

6. Adds a Personal Touch to Everyday Items

Personalized gifts can turn everyday items into something special. A customized notebook, a personalized mug, or even a monogrammed towel can bring a little extra joy to daily routines. These items aren’t just practical—they carry a personal touch that brightens everyday moments, reminding the recipient of the thought and care that went into choosing them.

7. Expresses Emotions in a Unique Way

Sometimes, words aren’t enough to express how we feel. Personalized gifts can help bridge that gap by turning emotions into tangible items. A framed quote that perfectly captures your feelings, a piece of jewelry with a meaningful date, or a custom puzzle with a hidden message—these gifts go beyond the ordinary and offer a unique way to express love, gratitude, and affection.

Conclusion

Personalized gifts are more than just presents; they’re expressions of love, thoughtfulness, and care. They make every moment special by adding a personal touch that speaks directly to the heart. Whether it’s celebrating a milestone, cherishing a memory, or simply showing someone you care, personalized gifts have a way of making every occasion unforgettable.

So next time you’re looking for a gift that truly stands out, consider going the personalized route. It’s a simple yet powerful way to turn any moment into a cherished memory, making your gift one that will be remembered and treasured for years to come.

Visit us on :- https://crazydesizn.com/

[freedombacktoschool]

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[avaf00rd]

you’re like 30

Leah Williamson x Reader

I wanted to get my tillies fic out tonight but I feel so sick but I still wanted to write. Here is this short asf Leah piece!!!

————————————————————————

You woke up to Leah’s arms tightly around your torso, you being her little spoon as you slept on your left side of the bed. It was Leah’s birthday today and you couldn’t be more excited. You very gently peeled the last arm off of you waist, and slightly shifted her leg back that was hoisted over your legs to hold you closer.

You went down the hall after quietly creeping out, grabbing your bag of presents you had put on the dining room table, all nicely wrapped and also turning on your coffee machine, making yourself one and getting Leah a hot chocolate from the machine also. While the coffee was being made you decided to quickly post Leah’s birthday post on instagram that you both did for each other every year, consitisting of old and new photos of each other.

@y/n.y/l/n

happy 27th my precious girl. Thanks for being my whole world. So happy to be with you on your day, I hope it’s one to remember my love. Love you forever and always ⭐️ 🍾 @leahwilliamson

you quickly posted it before you heard Leah’s footsteps come up behind you. “No no baby go back to bed please” you smiled

“I’m already up” she shrugged still half asleep “happy birthday to me” she smiled, saying the part that you missed.

“Oh of course” you said gently grabbing her neck so you could give her a long morning kiss “happy birthday baby” you said softly before kissing her again. You handed her a mug before she thanked you and you brought her over to the living room.

You handed her a large bag that would sit up to your waist if you put in on the ground.

“What on earth” your girlfriend laughed

“There’s nothing crazy big. There was just a lot and it felt reasonable” you said motioning to the size

She unwrapped multiple presents from you. Like a new cowboy hat that you knew she would adore, an iPad for her piano app (well hopefully you didn’t spend that money just for that but the piano is an option), heaps of clothes from new and nice brands that she fell in love with, some random and silly gadgets you found online and while scrolling on instagram, and two new records - an old vintage record name ‘greatest hits of ‘75’ and a country hits one.

She gave you multiple hugs kisses after opening each gift. “Stop getting me so much” she teased, tickling into your side while you laid in her arms on the couch, wrapping paper surrounding you as you squirming under her touch.

“Never!” You exclaimed. “Wait was your card in there?” You asked her remembering she hadn’t opened it.

She peeked back in the gift bag “don’t see one honey”

“Hang on” you said, getting out of her arms and heading up to your shared room to grab it. “Here” you smiled excitedly as your threw the card on her lap before sitting next to her, head leaning now on her shoulder.

dear Leah

My old girl is getting older now

You mean everything on this planet to me and even further into the universe. I wouldn’t want to wake up next to a more sweeter, genuine, prettier, passionate, hotter and loving woman than you my Leah.

Thank you for being there for me when times were lower than usual, and I’m so proud of all of your achievements, it gets me emotional thinking of your beautiful and amazing career.

Love you to the moon and back and I hope you have the best day

Love your girl y/n xoxoxoxo

You studied her face as she read it, not quite being able to see her facial expressions from the next to the girl. When she finally looked up from the paper she brought her hand up to her eye to wipe it. “Oh baby thank you” she chuckled pulling you on top of her so you could cuddle into her,

“Of course” you smiled in the crook of her next “happy birthday I love you”

“I love you. And your old girl huh?” She said raising an eyebrow

“Yeah you’re getting old” you smiled shrugging, looking down at your smiling blonde.

“Your 26 and I’m 27. I was your age yesterday” she laughed

“Your like 30 basically. Maybe it’s time you settle down” you shrugged in a joking way “scratch the current plan you carry the children and I’ll be the grumpy dad who goes to work” you giggled

“Hm let’s take it day by day huh. And stick to our decision. And no one is giving up their career yet” she told you, wide grin still plastered on her face.

“Smart. Ok now read the second paper in the thing” you said pointing at the envelope before clapping your hands in excitement.

She pulled out an A4 piece of paper with some sort of writing printed out and an image of skydivers. “Oh my we are going sky diving?” She laughed throwing her head back

“Close. Bungee jumping. I printed out the wrong photo”

“That’s scary” she said cutely before you pinched her cheeks

“No we get to do it together. We are like connected together and get to jump together” you exclaimed. You loved heights. Leah didn’t mind them, you wouldn’t have gotten the experience if she didn’t like them. “Plus it’s way more safer than skydiving so” you shrugged looking back down at her.

“I love you and thank you. I’m excited to do it with you” she smiled kissing your lips slowly.

“Goody cause it’s tomorrow!” You said happily

“What!“

—————————

Super short but I’ll start my draft for the fic you guys asked for tomorrow.

Love you! Stay nice in the requests and have the best day xxx

[robobarbie]

Robo i miss my male wife (Nightowl)

In order to fill my void, what would the Blooming panic Ll’s do when they miss there partner 🥹

dw since I'm in charge of the askbox rn Robo can't put him down we're safe here

Quest will acutely feel those hiccups that happen when there's a sudden void in your daily routine. Putting the second mug back in the cabinet, automatically adjusting to your presence on the couch– or if you haven't met yet, checking the chat client when you're usually online. He's used to loneliness but this is a new one, and he just sort of rides it out, waiting until the day your side of the bed is warm again. If you're married he twists the ring on his finger and stares at nothing in particular for a spell, then sends you a text to let you know he's thinking of you.

Nightowl is the opposite– too much love and energy and nowhere to put them will make him a little chaotic. He makes an attempt to do the things he doesn't get to do as much as when he was solo: takeout joints only he likes, spending way too long shopping for new jewelry, sitting out in the cold and doing studies of interesting buildings. When that doesn't work he sends you a message or six, probably including a pitiful selfie and/or a photo of what you're missing. He counts down the hours on the watch or the days on the calendar and dreams up the ways he'll welcome you back on your return, over and over and over again.

Xyx would send a couple goofy pictures of him or Cat; depending on how far along you are in the relationship, he'll either tell you to hurry up or just say "come home soon, love". He finds things to fill his time– might as well get all his work done now, means more time with you when you return– and when all that is done or stops distracting him, he makes a reservation for something he knows you'll like. Then, he reads, and tries to sink into the book before he can sink into unproductive thoughts. You'll be back. It'll be alright.

Toasty acts a bit like they're used to, falling into their routine before meeting you. More gaming, more browsing, begrudgingly moving their cups and plates to the kitchen. This time, though, they look out the window more, check their phone, drum their fingers on the desk. If you can't call, he plays a video just to hear your voice, then gets a little embarrassed.

[mochalate]

[intro] new notification!

msby!atsumu x reader || w/c: 560 Atsumu discovers that the only thing worse than online dating, is dating advice online. a/n: oh look at that, another atsumu fic!! this one is less stressful for me though. its pretty short, with a cute little plot that won't cause me planning paralysis. making edits for atsumu is always so fun <3 i hope you'll read it!!

[chapter 1->]

r/relationship_advice • 3 hours ago

u/fattytuna95

I want to ask out my twin brother's girlfriend.

It's not as bad as it sounds. She's not really his girlfriend.

I'll try to explain.

We're colleagues, sort of. (Me and her— I'd rather starve to death than work for my brother.)

Last month, someone took a picture of us leaving the office. I was only walking her to her car but the person who took the picture wanted to imply that we were dating.

And that wouldn't have been an easy rumour for her to handle, so I got my brother (identical twin) to post a picture with her on his socials.

Obviously, just one picture wouldn't work to convince anyone, so they've been meeting up a couple times a week (they have similar interests, so they were friends already) to be seen together.

Now here's the issue— I never saw her like that before, and I thought it was just fucking annoying to watch people be lovey dovey, fake or not... but one of my other colleagues said it sounded like I was jealous.

And fuck, I am.

Do you think she'd be mad if I asked her out? I reacted pretty badly to the original picture. And I'm worried my brother likes her for real (those photos they're posting are kind of convincing...)

Edit: for everyone asking, no, I can't ask my brother. he'll know why, and if he really does like her I don't want to mess with it. and if he doesn't he won't let me hear the fucking end of it. i can hear the best man speech already.

↑ 25 ↓ •••

u/unicornpoodle • 2 hours ago

lol dude (I'm assuming you're a dude, unless you're a girl who unfortunately is built exactly like your brother) are you sure you like her and aren't just jealous of your brother being happy? fake or not

↑ 50 ↓ •••

u/fattytuna95 • 2 hours ago yeah i'm sure. I cut out a picture of one of my teammates and pasted it over his ugly mug and it made me even angrier. ↑ 35 ↓ •••

u/msbygirlie_13 • 2 hours ago

Oh hey!! I recognise you from the atsumu miya subreddit!! That's so cool you have a twin just like him!! And his brother got a gf recently too!!! (I think they're fr tho lol.)

Okay hmmm this is a tough one. wdym when yuo said 'reacted badly'??? and what was so bad about the rumour in the first place if it's an option for you now???? this is kinda weird ngl.

↑ 42 ↓ •••

u/fattytuna95 • 2 hours ago do you really they're the real deal??? I kind of laughed. And now that I look back at it, I think I might have looked way too eager to put it out there that we weren't dating. like I was disgusted or something. :( I wasn't, I just didn't want her to have any trouble. :( :( I'm sorry, I can't explain the situation any more for privacy reasons. ↑ 20 ↓ •••

u/guiltyassassin_ • 1 hour ago

well you don't have to talk to either of them... you said someone took the original photo. maybe they're still stalking?? ask them what they think?

lmfao you guys are either celebrities or highschoolers with this kinda drama

(also you keep calling your brother ugly, but then say you guys are identical? huh????)

↑ 5 ↓ •••

u/fattytuna95 • 55 minutes ago This is kind of an insane idea, but it does make sense. Maybe I'll do it. (and you wouldn't get it.) ↑ 2 ↓ •••

first chapter tomorrow! please like/reblog/reply/send me an ask if you enjoyed it :) it keeps me going lol [my other fics->] divider: @/cafekitsune

[crazydesizn]

Turn your photos into artful displays that captivate and delight!

#homedecor#interiordesign#photoframes#framingtips#cherishedmemories#photoframegifts#photoframegifts#gifts#giftshop#personalizedgifts#photoframesonline#blogpost#frameblog#WallDecor#wallhangingdecor#photoframeideas

[jgracie]

jason grace 💗 xx

send me a character + an emoji for a surprise! (CLOSED) on the radio . . . photograph (ed sheeran)

"could you get me my wallet please, my love?" jason asked as you passed by the counter where his wallet - a stylish black leather one you'd gotten him after discovering he had nowhere to put his money - was currently sitting. giving your boyfriend a smile, you turned back, picked up the wallet and made your way over to him

"here you go," you said, sitting next to him. then, noticing he was online shopping, you asked, "what're you getting?" jason has never been a big fan of buying things online, so every time he did, you couldn't help but get curious as to what item was worthy enough for him to buy it over his laptop

clicking on the checkout button, jason replied, "saw this mug and it made me think of leo, so i decided to get it for him," you felt your heart melt at how thoughtful he's always been, always having other people on his mind while disregarding himself, but your heart melted even more when he opened his wallet

"is that us?" you asked, your eyes widening. in his wallet, jason had a picture of the two of you from when you'd first moved into your apartment. he was sitting on the kitchen counter with you on his lap, your arms wrapped around his neck as you pressed a kiss onto his cheek. annabeth had taken the picture that day - she and percy were helping you move in - and you completely forgot about it until now

with a giant smile plastered on your face, you waited attentively for jason's confirmation - poor, shy jason, who's face was now bright red

giving you his own shy smile, jason replied, "yeah, it is, i really liked that picture so it's been there ever since it was taken... i can take it out though, if you don't want it there?"

immediately, you shook your head, "no, oh my gods, jason, i'm not upset, i just think it's really cute of you! i have a picture of us in my wallet too!" at your confession, jason's smile couldn't help but widen. he never thought he was important enough for anyone to put him in their wallet

"can i see?" he asked. you nodded and headed to your bedroom, where your wallet was, and showed him your own polaroid of the two of you: his 19th birthday, with jason mid candle blowing and you clinging to his arm. this turned into the two of you pulling out all your photo albums and reminiscing on your days together, leo's mug long forgotten in jason's virtual shopping cart

[leosficlist]

Parentlock Rec List (so far)

This trope is my biggest weakness, so you can expect to find fluff galore, lots of Sherlock being called “dad” for the first time, love confessions and guaranteed happy endings. Mixture of lengths

Parentlock 2, Parentlock 3

A Case for Domestic Propinquity by SilentAuror 32k words

Author’s Summary: As Sherlock and John renovate Baker Street with Rosie underfoot, Sherlock can't help but wondering how he could possibly convince John to just stay indefinitely...

Notes: The way this fic ends is genius, and one of my favorite concepts that I rarely see.

Iris by Slashscribe

Author’s Summary: Sherlock does his best to make John happy when John comes back to 221B with his new baby after the events of Season 3, but Sherlock has a track record of getting things wrong in this area. This story is an exploration of their gradual shift from friends to lovers, told from Sherlock's perspective, full of a lot of pining and lack of emotional awareness. 12k words

Notes: Sherlock falls in love with Johns daughter (named Iris in this), and John falls in love with Sherlock as he watches.

Small Sacrifices by Fandaround

Author’s Summary: Five times that Sherlock made small sacrifices for Rosie and the one time that John realized it was all for him. 3k words

Notes: soft and sweet, sherlock adjusting his life for his favorite people

Family Matter by FaithfulViewers

Author’s Summary: A little girl calling them both her daddies is all it takes for John and Sherlock to realize the obvious: they're a family now. (Parentlock.) 3.8k words

Note: Gen, no kissing or romantic vibes, still lovely and heartwarming

The Dilemma of the Watson Bedroom by Jemariel

Author’s Summary: Sherlock hates the name Rosamund. John wanted to call her Katherine. Sherlock thinks it suits her. Meanwhile, he and John are orbiting ever closer together. Sherlock tries not to wonder how long he will have them here, all three of them together in 221B. 7k words

The Stroke of Midnight by aqueliaofthelonelymountain

Author’s Summary: With asking John this one question, he might induce John to ask other questions himself. Like: Since when are you interested in college reunions? Or worse: You know that most people bring their significant others to college reunions, do you, Sherlock? Like spouses… 9.8k words

Notes: Sherlock thinks John is simply playing along to help him save face, but this is cleared up by the end of the night.

Lines In The Sand by JRow

Author’s summary: "He examines the plain white box, which clearly holds a new mug. John must have purchased it and he’s written a note on the top. “First time for everything. – J” Sherlock smiles and feels excitement as he opens the box. As expected, it’s a mug. It appears to be a boring, white mug. Sherlock pulls it out of the box and his breath hitches as he sees the image decorating the side. It’s not boring at all." 3k words

Notes: John is sappy and open, Sherlock is cautiously hopeful. getting together.

Beautiful Pictures by JRow (again!)

Author’s Summary: An adorable (but unacceptable!) photo of Sherlock and Rosie on the Mail online, a stolen Picasso, and a slip of the tongue force John to re-evaluate his long held assumptions 28k+ words

Notes: casefic, raising rosie together while pining, felt like a quick read, vulnerable sherlock, sherlock calls john when offered drugs, sherlock devotes himself to rosie, john takes a pre kiss walk

What Remains Unsaid by ScullysEvilTwin

Author’s Summary: “Sherlock,” he says quietly, shifting over beneath the now-ruined quilt. “Do you want children?” Sherlock stares at the ceiling, makes no indication that he’s heard John at all, but after a moment, he turns his head to meet John’s gaze. “Look at our lives, John. What a preposterous notion.” [] “Our lives are insane, yes, but you didn’t answer the question, did you?” 5.5k words

Notes: Established relationship, John sees Sherlock interacting with children a few times and decides they should consider their options.

Swan Dive by HitLikeHammers

5+1 Sherlock has definitely leapt blindly into worse things. Or: Five Times Sherlock Acted as a Parent, and One Time He Didn't Have Any Reason for Acting at All. 8k words

Notes: Little scenes from Sherlock raising rosie, absolutely heartwarming

Three Of Us by Salamboo6

Author’s Summary: He leans in as soon as he’s close enough, kissing Rosie’s forehead softly, murmuring a quiet “Morning love” as Sherlock goes into more detailed facts about Rosie’s sleeping habits. John isn’t sure what happens next, but without thinking twice about it and actually feeling like it’s the most natural thing in the world to do right now, he leans in towards Sherlock and kisses his temple with a smile. 2.8k words

Notes: starts with a sleepy kiss, end with getting together

Love Comes Softly by SHERLOCKED79

Author’s Summary: After Mary’s unexpected death leaves John alone to raise a months-old Rosie, the doctor tries to sort through the wreckage of his new life. Thankfully, Sherlock is there to pick up the broken pieces and put them back together. / A short, endearing fic in which it takes John Watson over half a decade of raising Rosie together with Sherlock to finally realize he’s absolutely in love with the man. (And in which John is the only one who doesn’t realize this.) 29k words

Notes: So fluffy I thought it must be a prank, but the love never stops ♡

Love Like Ours by Berty

Author’s Summary: In a moment of madness, John tells Sherlock that he loves him. He had not anticipated where the ensuing conversation would take them. 6,5k words

Notes: Lovely heartfelt, in character, love confessions and clarifications, John catching Sherlock being lovely with Rosies as.

[bau-thoughts]

Helping Spencer Reid recover from top surgery

I’m fully prepared for this to not do as well but Spencer is 100% trans in my head and he deserves to be pampered like this.

Spencer Reid has wanted top surgery since he was 15 years old.

At age 23 he is given an appointment date for his top surgery and at age 24 he is being driven to the hospital by you for his surgery date.

“Are you feeling okay Spence?” you ask, seeing him bouncing his leg in the passenger seat.

“Remind me Spence, how long will the surgery take? I know it was mentioned during the consultations but I can’t remember.”

“It shouldn’t take more than 4 hours. Do you have enough stuff to keep you busy while you wait?” He asks, trying to keep his mind off the surgery. He had been waiting nearly a decade for this and he didn’t quite know how to feel about it.

“Yeah I’ll be fine. I’ve got a couple of books in my bag to keep me entertained.”

The two of you park outside the hospital and you walk with him to his doctor’s office, you take his hand on the walk there and you try and figure out if you did that to comfort him or to comfort yourself.

As you watch him get wheeled down the hallway, a tear of happiness rolls down your cheek. You know how much he’s been waiting for this day and you’re so excited for him.

When he gets pushed around the corner before the operating room you turn around and go back to your car. In the boot of your car is everything you could think of that Spencer might need during his recovery. Spencer already researched everything he might need immediately post-op and systematically packed a bag based on the likelihood of him needing an item.

You start driving back to your apartment trying to make the most of the two hours you’ve given yourself to prepare your apartment. As you open the front door to your shared apartment, you struggle trying to get the box inside while propping the door open.

You start by preparing your shared bedroom. In the box you’ve collected pillows in a variety of firmnesses, which you arrange like the photos you were able to find online, multiple fuzzy blankets and a new weighted blanket to put over Spencers legs, and new soft button-up shirts. You had found Doctor Who and Star Trek cartoon characters printed across the shirts at you and Spencer’s favourite local thrift store when you were trying to find him a new cardigan.

You pulled out the picnic basket from your one year anniversary date Spencer took you on and filled it with his favourite snacks and drinks. On top of the pile, you gently place a cheesy mug you found for him with “Get it off your chest” written across the side for his sugar with a side of coffee. (There’s a picture at the bottom)

You climb onto the bed and hang small fairy lights above the bed to help with overstimulation from the ceiling light. You also place a new dim lamp next to the bed that’s bright enough for Spencer to read.

You hear a faint buzzing from the kitchen and realise your alarm is going off to remind you to go back to the hospital to pick up Spencer.

You rush down to your car and get back to the hospital as quickly as you can. You run inside and find Spencer’s room where he’s asleep with bandages wrapped around his chest. He slowly wakes up from the anaesthesia as you sit by his bed with a book open in your lap.

“I want to hold your hand when I look down for the first time.” You take his hand and squeeze it tightly.

“Look down whenever you feel ready.”

[writing-for-marvel]

Everyone’s Watching Him (But He’s Looking At Her) (3)

Actor!Bucky Barnes x Assistant!Fem!Reader

< < PART 2 | Series Masterlist | PART 4 > >

Summary: You’ve barely had time to recover from the controversial interview the night before, but it’s time for Bucky to step into the limelight yet again for his movie premiere.

Warnings: body insecurity and mention of reader sucking her stomach in, idiots in love, soft fluff, shy & insecure reader, jealousy, multiple POV switches, miscommunication, angst (yes, you read that right, though it’s me so you shouldn’t be surprised)

Word count: 4.6k (I may have gotten a little carried away)

A/N: photo credit to @justarandomgirly, banners by @vase-of-lilies

Main Masterlist | Ask me anything! | Taglist | Library

Sunshine creeps through the partly closed curtains, the brightness flickering against your closed eyelids causing you to wake from your serene slumber.

The bed is as soft as a marshmallow, and smells divine, like good quality fabric softener and an undeniable musky scent, which, when surrounding you entirely in the sheets, pillows and large duvet, is like coming home.

You’re still drowsy when you spread yourself out like a starfish, stretching all your joints that have become stiff with sleep. Which is when your brain kicks into gear and realises, in fact, this bed is much too large and comfortable to be your own.

Your eyes shoot open, and what you see confirms your suspicions that this indeed isn’t your bed. You’re met with a luxurious sized room, a large projector screen hanging from the ceiling against the wall opposite the king size bed and a chaise longue over in the corner beside a full length mirror.

Recognising it immediately as Bucky’s bedroom, you do a double take, checking to see if he’s in the bed beside you. You find your stomach sinks in disappointment when you realise you’re alone.

A soft meowing coming from the door catches your attention, but before you can shift positions too get a better look, a fluffy white cat jumps onto the bed and curls up beside your head. Much like his dad, Alpine was a little stand-offish at first, but once he became familiar with your presence, he’s been the most affectionate cat you’ve ever met.

“Good morning, handsome.” You murmur whilst reaching out to scratch under his chin. Alpine purrs in contentment. “C’mon, let’s see if your dad’s awake.”

James Barnes is of course not awake, though that doesn’t surprise you. He always needs a good eight hours of shut-eye, otherwise he’s in a horrible mood for the rest of the day.

Now that you’re wide awake, the memories of the previous night come back to you. In an attempt to distract Bucky from the chaos which would have been erupting online, you stayed up until four in the morning reminiscing, watching old movies and eating all the junk food in this extensive pantry.

Though from your last recollection you were still beside him on the couch, head resting on his shoulder as you became sleepy - you could only speculate that Bucky carried you to his bed after that.

You lean against the doorframe of his guest bedroom, coffee mug in hand and Alpine brushing against your leg as you take a moment to watch Bucky sleep. He looks so peaceful, his lips pressed together in a smile. You can’t prevent your mind from wandering to what exactly he dreams about when he closes his eyes at night, and the hope inflating like a balloon in your stomach that perhaps you have something to do with the subconscious smile he’s expressing.

After the ordeal the night before, you hate to wake him from the tranquillity he’s found for himself, rouse him into a day where all the headlines, both good and bad, will be about him, where his name will be trending on twitter, and all the gossip columnists will be speculating about who he’s dating and why he needs a prosthetic arm.

You wish you could protect him from the scandalous storm, but you also know he has a lot to do in preparation for his movie premiere tonight. The part of you who is employed as his assistant wins out this time.

“Bucky…” You coo gently from the doorway, hesitant to encroach on his personal space while he’s unconscious. You are just an assistant after all. Once you see him stir but not fully wake, you call softly again. “Buck, it’s time to get up.”

“Not yet.” He mumbles in response, making no effort to move or open his eyes, let alone get out of bed. You chuckle at how adorable he is when he’s tired. Most people would consider it being grumpy, you actually find it endearing.

“I made coffee.” You know those are the magical words to get Bucky Barnes moving for the day. He finally opens his eyes and they instantly meet yours, all you can think about is being the first thing he sees every single morning for the rest of his life.

“Thanks.” He says with a soft smile. “I’ll be right out.”

* * *

Bucky is still getting dressed when the doorbell rings.

He’s not expecting anyone, but he’s sure it’s just Maria coming over with last minute directives concerning the premiere tonight. A shiver runs down Bucky’s spine at the thought of stepping out in front of all those cameras again so soon after last night's debacle. It’s horrible timing really, but he doesn’t exactly have a choice but to attend, however reluctantly.

He’s buttoning up his shirt when he hears the distinctive sound of a toddler laughing, and he instantly knows who has paid him a visit.

When he exits his bedroom he’s met with four smiling faces. You, his darling sister, his best friend and their beautiful daughter.

“Buba!” She calls, not quite able to say his name yet.

“We thought we’d pop around after everything that happened last night. Much like her favourite uncle, Jamie has an infectious smile, and we think you could use some of that today.” Becks comments as she tickles her daughter's tummy, making her giggle. Bucky finds that contagious smile spreading over his features as his sister hands him Jamie, who, by the way she’s squirming in his grip, seems very happy to see her uncle.

He didn’t know it when he woke up this morning, but this is exactly what he needs to take his mind off yesterday’s disaster and his impending public appearance tonight.

You offer to leave, so he can spend time alone with his family, but he’s adamant that you stay. Bucky’s sure he will only ever be able to find true contentment and happiness with you by his side, because when you’re elsewhere, there will always be a fragment of himself missing.

The rest of the morning is filled with smiles, laughter and pure joy. His schedule has been so busy the last couple months with finishing the production of the movie in a different city and the press tour, that there’s a lot to catch up on in little Jamie’s life, as well as that of her parents.

“When are you going to tell her?” Becks asks in a low voice as the two of them make lunch in the kitchen, but Bucky can’t take his eyes off the scene playing out in the living room. He’s far too invested in watching you babble, laugh and play with his niece, the miracle his sister and best friend named after him, to care about anything else in the world.

“Tell her what?” Bucky asks, not paying enough awareness, even to his own sister, to figure out what she’s implying.

“That you’re in love with her.” This, however, does capture his attention and are perhaps the only words Becks could have uttered in order for him to take his focus from you.

“How do you know?”

“The way you look at her. Like she’s everything you’ve ever wanted and all you’ll ever need. Everything you’ve waited for.” Bucky chuckles, his sister knows him too well for her own good and he knows there’s no point in trying to deceive her - she also happens to be far too smart for her own good too.

“How come I could never see that between you and Stevie before you told me you loved each other?” It was the love found between his sister and best friend that made Bucky truly believe he too could find a love with someone that would transcend the remainder of his life. It may have taken him a couple years after that, but he then finally met you, and all fell into place.

“Because you were oblivious. Still are actually.” It’s now Becks’ turn to chuckle, but in a way that makes Bucky feel like he’s missing some vital piece of information.

“Why still?”

“Because you clearly don’t realise she’s in love with you too.” Bucky's entire world stops. All he can feel is his heart thumping so forcefully in his chest it might burst at any moment.

“You think- no, no she isn’t… is she?” Only in his fantasies do you return his affections. He’s dreamed, sincerely hoped, that bashful smile and twinkle in your eye when he says anything remotely flattering about you is an indication of something beyond friendship, but he’s never let himself fully believe that in fear of having his heart completely crushed.

Could you really love him?

“She’s the one who invited us around today, she thought seeing your family would be just the spark you need.” And that’s when he thinks his heart stops completely. You organised this? Without him asking or prompting in any way - you simply did it because you thought it would cheer him up? You knew exactly what he needed, what would brighten his day and you were content not taking the credit as long as he was happy?

“Buck, take it from someone who waited far too long to tell the person they loved that they indeed loved them - don’t wait. Stevie and I danced around it for years because he’s your best friend and I’m your sister. If you love her, tell her. It might just be the best decision you’ve ever made. It was for me.”

And with that Becks pats Bucky on the shoulder and leaves him with his l thoughts as she joins her daughter for feeding time.

Tonight. I’ll tell her tonight, Bucky pledges to himself with a new found surge of courage.

He just needs to get through the anxiety of this damn movie premiere without someone asking him why he’s missing a limb before he does.

* * *

After you bid farewell to the Rogers family, realisation sets in that it’s time to prepare for the premiere. You can tell by how tense Bucky’s shoulders are that he’s not looking forward to the occasion, which is a shame because he’s put so much time and effort into making an entertaining film for it to all be ruined by one bully interviewer.

And that’s what you attempt to remind him of, but to no avail. There’s a sharp, stabbing pain in your gut at the thought that, at least this time, you’re not enough to be able to cheer him up.

However begrudgingly, Bucky allows you to take him meet with his stylist for the final reveal of his attire for the night. After the award show season, he wants to go with a slightly different look, and Bucky seems to welcome the change.

“What do you think?” Bucky asks, strutting out in a navy blue suit with a cummerbund, doing a performative twirl just for you which makes you chuckle.

“I much prefer when I get to help you with a tie.” Is what you say, because you’re sure if you try to articulate how gorgeous he looks you’ll end up admitting he’s the most handsome man you’ve ever laid eyes on. The memory of helping you fix his tie last night flashes in your mind and your cheeks heat at simply the recollection of being that close to him.

“I’ll have to remind the stylist only suits with ties from now on.” Bucky smiles, his hands twitching in a way you hope indicates he wishes you were within proximity to touch. “Oh, I also have a surprise for you!”

He ducks back into the dressing area and for the minute it takes for him to return, excitement and suspense grow in your stomach. When Bucky comes back, he has a garment bag in his hands and a cheeky grin on his face.

“Try this on for me.” You try to protest, to object to him having spent any amount of money on you, but when he forces the garment into your arms and directs you to the dressing room with his large hands on your waist, you’re putty in his hands.

“Can you zip me up please?” You ask nervously, as you walk back out to model the gown for Bucky. You turn around and a wave of vulnerability overcomes you as he stares at your bare back. He slowly makes his way over to you, hands careful as he zips up the gown.

He looks at you in awe, but you’re sure it’s just because he’s used to seeing you in a pair of jeans and a band tee rather than an elegant dress.

“Bucky, I can’t accept this… this is far too beautiful and expensive.” You advise, though you're too busy admiring how the dress fits in the reflection of the mirror to fully appreciate the absolutely enamoured expression he’s regarding you with.

“Doll, it was made just for you, you wouldn’t want it to go to waste would you?” He says with a smile, unable to take his eyes off the dress and how perfectly it fits your body. He knows he’s going to have not so innocent dreams about it tonight.

“Thank you Buck, I promise I’ll pay you back.”

“No, you’ve already done so much for me, more than you know, please, let me do this for you.” You don’t push the matter any further, but make sure to express your gratitude again before leaving for the premiere. After feeling so out of place during the recent award show season, it means the world that Bucky would do this for you.

You feel confident in your custom dress when you arrive, not only because the gown you’re wearing actually fits you properly, unlike every other second hand dress you’ve worn to important events, but because of the way Bucky looks at you while you’re wearing it.

But when you get separated, him moving to the red carpet along with all the other exquisitely dressed celebrities and notable attendees, and you with the behind the scenes help, the distance between you allows space for doubt and uncertainty to creep in.

You watch Bucky greet his co-star, the gorgeous Sharon Carter. You can’t deny it, she looks absolutely stunning. Perhaps more than stunning, if that’s possible. A woman out of a man’s sexual fantasy.

A fire red dress plunges down her front, a long slit in the side shows off her tall, slim legs and taught material over her abdomen and hips leaves no room for questioning how flat her stomach is and the desirable curves of her waist. It makes you suck your stomach in, suddenly overly insecure about how your body looks in your gown.

It’s hard to breathe watching Bucky looking at her with such a genuine smile and an eagerness in his eyes that you could only describe as attraction. And that even though they’re in front of flashing cameras and being recorded for the entire world to see, you can see that he’s not feigning a second of it.

Everyone in attendance is abuzz with comments of how dashing they both look, but more notable, what a breathtaking couple they make.

Bucky’s hand slides lower and rests on the curves of her waist, making jealousy spread through your body and stomach churn with insecurity.

The ache in your chest is the painful reminder that it is only in your imagination where he is yours, even if in every version of reality you will always be his.

From that moment on you find it difficult to truly concentrate on the importance of the occasion, or the anticipation of seeing a blockbuster film before the majority of the world. You’re too caught up in the self doubting thoughts bouncing around your head like in a pinball machine.

The movie itself goes by in a blur. You try your best to remind yourself that Bucky’s playing a fictional character, but it’s difficult to sit through two hours of the sexual tension between him and Sharon which ultimately ends in a steamy sex scene.

The chemistry between them is tangible and you recognise that spark in his eye on the big screen as the same way he looked at her on the red carpet. It’s easy to convince yourself that there will never be that electrifying magnetism between you two when not only have they shown it while filming a movie for six months, but also have exhibited it right in front of your eyes tonight.

By the time the movie ends, it feels like someone’s sitting on your chest, every breath agonising, even though you have no right to be jealous. He’s not yours, he’s your boss, he’s never vocalised any romantic interest in you and quite clearly he’s capable of doing much better than you anyway.

The first person Bucky hugs as the credits roll is Sharon. Seeing him find solace in her arms is enough to push you to the edge - you need to get out of here.

As the cast is preoccupied by all the recognition and acknowledgements, you take the window of opportunity to slip out the side door, needing the fresh air and space between the setting bringing you so much anxiety.

You think you’ve escaped inconspicuously until you hear a door closing behind you. The way Bucky’s voice calls your name is like a warm embrace in the cold, lonely night and compels you to stop.

“Where are you going?” He enquires as he catches up to you, a confused furrow in his brow.

“I’m sorry Bucky, it was all becoming a bit too much for me in there, I just want to head home.” The concern brimming in his eyes is enough to make your knees weak and for you to forget that you’re actually incredibly insecure and jealous right now. Bucky knows you don’t like crowds so that’s the excuse you’ll stick with.

“Doll, why didn’t you just tell me? Let me drive you.” He offers thoughtfully without any further questioning.

“Bucky this is your night, you should be celebrating with your friends not driving me anywhere.” Your last wish is to inconvenience him, that’s why you attempted to leave unnoticed, because in the back of your mind you knew Bucky’s benevolent enough to try something like this on a night that should instead be dedicated to him.

“I want to make sure you get home safe. Please.” He looks at you with those puppy dog eyes you intrinsically know you’ll never be able to say no to, those same eyes which regard you with a tenderness you’re only familiar with from him, that make you feel more beautiful and treasured than all of the precious gemstones money can buy.

“Okay.” It should perhaps concern you how quickly you yield to him, but the elated smile which forms on Bucky’s face as you do is reward enough for conceding so easily. That, and the knowledge that if he’s with you, he’s not with Sharon.

“Thank you!” He exclaims, as if you’re the one doing him the favour instead of the other way around. His large hands cup your face as he leans in and kisses your forehead, much too quickly for your liking because before you’re even able to savour the feel of his touch he’s pulling away and rather all you can feel is the cold absence of where his contact was the moment before.

Bucky can see the shiver which runs down your spine and shrugs off his jacket before you even have the opportunity to protest.

“Here, take this, can’t have you feeling cold.” He places the large jacket around you without hesitation, making sure the shoulders are aligned correctly before his hands smooth down your arms before finishing in your hands. His proximity makes you feel dizzy and you’re suddenly hyper aware of how sweaty your palms are. Bucky looks down at you, eyes briefly flickering down to your lips as he licks his own, before settling on your eyes. Your desire to kiss him is about to overrule every professional instinct you’re attempting to exert, when he opens his mouth to speak. “Just wait right here, I need to say a quick goodbye to some people but I’ll be right back to take you home. I promise.”

He squeezes your hands as reassurance and before you’re even able to process the glint in his tender eyes, he’s disappeared inside.

You pull his jacket tighter around you as the wind picks up, losing yourself in the same captivating musky scent you were surrounded by this morning in his bed sheets. It’s soothing and reminds you that it was in fact you who was comforting him last night when he broke down. Not Sharon. You.

“Are you heading off?” A familiar voice asks. You look up to find Maria taking a drag of a cigarette, and for a rationale you’re unsure of, your grip on Bucky’s jacket becomes tighter.

“Yeah, Bucky’s driving me home.” You say with a smile you can’t suppress.

“Oh darling, he can’t leave the celebrations yet. He’s the star of the show!” Maria takes one last puff of her cigarette before she stamps it out with her red bottom shoes you’re sure cost more than your month's rent.

“But he-”

“Besides, I’m sure he’d much rather go home with his girlfriend.” If her words don’t kill you first the nonchalant tone she uses to implode your entire world just might.

“Girlfriend?” You choke out.

“Sharon - I mean, you saw how cosy the two of them were today? They’ve gotten awfully close after all those long months playing love interests.” Simply hearing her name makes your heart clench and brings back the suffocating envy you were feeling mere minutes ago.

“I guess.” Is all you can manage to say.

“Look, darling, you’ve had a long couple days working, you should head home! There’s a taxi rank just around the corner.” Maria almost pushes you forward, but with how weak and pliant you’ve become with self doubt, your body puts up no resistance. You mumble a quick goodnight before your feet shuffle you the rest of the way to the cab stand.

There was a small part of you that hoped, perhaps even believed, that Bucky reciprocated the overwhelming feelings of love and devotion you held for him.

Over time you’ve needed to syphon off larger and larger segments of your heart to be able to store your ever growing feelings for him and all the memories you’d made with him you refused to forget, until you realised that small section had instead become your entire, overflowing heart.

And you pondered that when Bucky looked at you like he didn’t even want to blink in fear of missing out on a single second with you, perhaps that’s what he was doing too.

But why should you trust your instincts when they’ve led you astray so many times before? When all it’s resulted in was the pain of heartbreak and rejection.

Why would Bucky Barnes, renowned playboy and the biggest movie star in the world, be any different?

To your dismay, it turns out he isn’t.

* * *

Bucky leaves the celebration with a pep in his step.

He’s going to take you home and tell you how he feels.

He can’t help the nervous twisting of his stomach at the thought of baring his heart to you. Revealing that his soul has become intertwined with yours and you carry his fragile heart wherever you go, but that there’s simply no one else in the entire world he wants nor trusts more to have that privilege.

He’s about to reveal his most closely guarded secret, open his heart and expose his most vulnerable side to you with the prospect of complete rejection. And as much as it scares him half to death, he’s taking his opportunity. Becks believes you love him, and that’s about as sure as he can be.

When Bucky rounds the corner, Maria is standing alone exactly where he left you and his heart squeezes tightly with anxiety.

“Where is-”

“She left, said she needed to get home and didn’t want to wait for you.” Maria informs flatly, but Bucky can’t believe it. You’re always so patient, so accommodating to his insanely hectic schedule, had you really grown tired of waiting on him?

“She left?” Bucky can hear the distress in his own voice. He looks around, desperately confused, feeling an abyss being carved into his chest as the realisation of your departure sets in.

He told you to wait right here.

He promised he’d be right back.

He was going to tell you he loves you…

Even though Maria confirmed otherwise, part of him expects to see you standing there, wearing his jacket over your shoulders and that shy smile of yours which makes his stomach perpetually flip. But there is nothing aside from the faint music reverberating from inside, and a cool breeze that reminds him you’ve left with his jacket, and his heart, without so much as a goodbye.

“She’s off the clock Bucky, no wonder she wants to go do her own thing, she’s not getting paid to cater to your every whim 24 hours a day. Besides, this gives us a chance to chat. I have to talk to you about Sharon Carter.” Maria platonically drapes her arm around Bucky’s shoulders and directs him back inside without knowing her words are like a knife to his chest.

Of course you want to do your own thing, you have a life outside of being his assistant, you don’t want to be around him every second of every day working. That’s why you were in such a rush to leave tonight.

How could he be stupid to mistake you doing your job for anything more?

“What about Sharon?” He doesn’t want to deal with any work talk right now, all he wants is to go home and nurse his bruised heart by himself.

“I’ve talked with her management, and we’ve agreed to push the angle that you two are dating.”

“No, Maria, I don’t want to do that, I’ve had enough of PR relationships.” You are all he wants. Bucky doesn’t want to have to hold hands, kiss and be excessively affectionate with someone else when it’s really you he wants to be able to do all those things, and more, with. He finds his palms are sweating at the mere thought of being able to do that with you, even if you don’t want that with him.

“James, it’s already in motion. Everyone’s speculating about who you’re dating after last night's interview, so we pushed the story before the red carpet tonight to drum up buzz about the movie. It’s perfect timing!”

Dread settles in the pit of Bucky’s stomach. The next week will be filled with press for the new movie and he’s going to have to play the part of Sharon’s devoted boyfriend when all he craves is to be yours. This was a nightmare he desperately wanted to wake up from.

Two hearts, connected in a way even their owners don’t understand, go to sleep that night feeling more alone and unloved than ever before, when in actuality they both dream of the same thing: being with each other.

Part 4 > >

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[e-dubbc11]

Hi, Ericca! I hope you’re well, my friend! 💜

How about, “Did they hurt you?” From the Protective Prompts with Billy?

Love you! 💜

My lovely Katherine,

Thank you SO much for participating in my sleepover but mostly thank you for being such a good friend to me, also supporting and reading my work…all of it means so much to me.

I love you to pieces and I hope you like what I did here, it took a turn I wasn’t expecting but I like the way it turned out.

Don’t Touch What’s Mine

Photos are not mine. They are courtesy of Pinterest/Google.

Pairing: Billy Russo x F! Reader

Warnings: fluff, angst, violence, swearing,

Word Count: 1.9K-ish

Summary: You write short stories for an online magazine and you like to do your writing at the New York Public Library. After finishing for the day, you’re waiting for your train and run into some unexpected trouble.

A/N: The “kids” I make mention of in this one are 18 and over…not actual children. Just making it clear. And thank you to my lovely Lily @munsonownsmyass for reading this and coming up with the title for me 😘

As always, thank you for reading!  I appreciate it so much and comments, reblogs are welcome and encouraged. Don’t be shy to tell me your favorite part. 💕💕 💕

“I love that picture of you.” He said, wrapping his long arms around your waist from behind and leaning down to kiss your neck.

It was a picture of you as a little girl in front of the New York Public Library, sitting in front of one of the majestic stone lions that sits out in front of the building.

You smiled, picked up the framed picture, and said, “I do too. That was my first trip to the library. I’d love to recreate that picture, same pose, same big cheese smile. That would be fun, wouldn’t it baby?”

You set the frame back down on the table.

Billy kissed your temple. “Yes it would be, my love. I’ll take it for you whenever you’re ready. You’re goin’ there tomorrow, aren’t ya?”

You wrote little short stories for an online magazine. They published them weekly and you usually did your writing at the library because it was quiet and there weren’t any distractions there as opposed to at the penthouse, where there were plenty. Your incredibly handsome boyfriend being one of those many distractions.

“I am, my deadline is in a couple days and I need to finish what I’ve been working on.” You said.

“Well, if you’re still there when I get off work, let me know and I’ll come get ya. I don’t like you walkin’ or taking the train.” He said. “Too many crazies out there lately.”

“I’ll be careful, handsome.” You said, turning around and burying your face into his soft gray sweater.

You inhaled the scent of his cologne, your fingers tangled in the fabric of the sweater, and his body was a warm cradle for yours. You felt safe in his embrace.

Billy always made you feel safe and he would fiercely protect you from anything and anyone. There was a sense of calm when Billy had his hands on you. He helped you relax, he made you feel at ease and the tension from the day just disappeared whenever he was around.

“Promise me you’ll be careful? There have been a lot of muggings around there lately.” He said, sternly.

“I already said I would, Billy. Yes, I will be careful.” You said with a warm smile. “You worry too much…but I know why you do. I love you.”

“I love you too, beautiful.” He replied.

The Next Day

Inside of the library was beautiful. Books on every wall from floor to ceiling. Rows of long wooden tables and chairs are set up in rooms with high ceilings and chandeliers with small table lamps set up every couple of feet for extra light.

Your bag carried all of your essentials…laptop, water, snacks, and a notebook. Billy bought the laptop for you. It was a really nice one too, you felt like you couldn’t accept it but he knew how much you loved to write so he wanted you to have the best and all the best programs to use.

He was always extremely thoughtful.

After staring at a blank page for what felt like forever, your inspiration came to you and it hit you like a ton of bricks. The words were flying from your brain, to your fingers, and onto the screen.

You were really proud of what you had written and felt good that you were actually going to be early for your deadline. You were on such a roll, that you decided to start another piece before you were out of energy and it was time to leave.

The sun had already started to go down and the late fall winds kissed your face as you walked through the revolving door. You knew Billy wasn’t out of work yet so you made your way to train that was about a five-minute walk away from the library.

The cool fresh air felt nice against your face since you had basically been inside all day. The streets weren’t too busy as you descended the stairs to catch your train. Since it was a little after quitting time, the platform wasn’t filled with people.

You had just missed the train so you would have to wait for another one. Standing on the platform, you could feel someone watching you. Slowly turning around, you saw a tall kid, no more than 20, standing behind you. And he was a little too close for your liking so you stepped forward a couple of steps. A few of his friends then joined him.

You heard the train rumbling along the tracks, light shining down the tunnel, and the brakes started to squeak.

Suddenly, your bag was ripped from your shoulder by one man and you were shoved down to the ground, very close to the edge of the platform by another.

You were careful not to move too quickly because you were dangerously close to falling onto the tracks. The group of men took off with your bag, no one tried to stop them, and a couple people rushed to see if you were alright.

Your laptop was gone, along with everything else that was inside of your bag, mainly, the thumb drive that had your story on it. Luckily, your phone and money were in your pocket so they didn’t take that from you. You hit the ground hard but you felt alright and when you looked up, you noticed two police officers running toward you. They took down your statement and the description of the men and they let you go home.

It upset you to know that the laptop Billy bought you was gone. He was so happy when he gave it to you and now you had to go home and tell him that it was gone.

When he arrived home, he found you drinking hot tea and standing in front of the large window, looking down at the busy streets below. He knew something was wrong. You had already cleaned yourself up, cried in the shower but burst into tears again as soon as he asked you “What’s wrong, baby?”

You had to tell him what happened. He sat and listened, his face flushed with rage when you told him they pushed you and hit the ground hard.

“Did they hurt you?” He asked, breathless with anger.

“I’m ok, Billy. I’m just sorry I lost the laptop you gave me. I know how expensive it was.” You said, with a hitch in your voice.

You weren’t used to nice things like that. You lived comfortably as a child, but nothing like this. You were still trying to get used to living in Billy’s penthouse.

“I can buy you another laptop, sweet girl. I’m not worried about that; I’m worried about YOU! Are you alright?!” He asked, clenching his fists.

Brushing his beard with your thumbs, trying to calm him down, you leaned in to place a gentle kiss on his lips. You were ok, but your story and your laptop were gone.

“I’m fine, baby. I am. It’s just…my story is gone too. I worked really hard on it and I think it’s one of the better pieces I’ve written and they took it.” You said.

“What station was it?” Asked Billy.

“It was Times Square…why?” You asked.

Billy got up and grabbed his jacket.

“I’ll be back. They’ve done it once so they’ll do it again. But they won’t after tonight.” He said.

Before you could protest, he was gone.

And he was right. They did it again. Billy watched four young men enter the subway, steal a backpack, and take off. He followed close behind them, doing his best to blend in and stay out of sight.

They ducked into an empty office building and took the backpack to a conference room where they kept everything they took for the day. Billy thought, more than likely, they would try and sell everything the next day.

He pulled his weapon.

“None of you fuckin’ move or you’re all dead.” Said Billy, softly and calmly but with acid in his tone.

They all froze.

Billy looked at their faces and thought if he didn’t change his stars that their lives could have been his. If he didn’t join the Marines after aging out of the group home, he could have been right where these kids were.

He could have been out assaulting people and committing crimes and in that moment, he was grateful. He had built something, created something, and became successful. Also during all of that, he found you.

Billy found someone that loved him and he loved you; he would do anything for you including holding four kids up at gunpoint to get back what they took from you.

“I want the laptop you took today. It was in a black leather bag with a keychain hanging off of it. There’s a picture of me and her on that keychain. Hand it over and I’ll consider not killing you.” Said Billy.

One of them wearing a red hoodie, moved slowly with his hands in the air and picked up your bag. He handed it to Billy, still pointing his gun at them, and moved back to join the other three.

“Which one of you pushed her to the ground?” He growled.

Silence.

“Tell me NOW!”

The kid in the red hoodie pointed to the guy next to him.

“He did.” He replied.

Billy moved closer and placed the barrel of the gun up against his eye.

“Give me one reason why I shouldn’t put a bullet through your eye right now? Ya know she almost fell onto the track when you pushed her? DO YOU?!!!” Yelled Billy, right in that kid’s face.

Petrified, he said, “I’m sorry…” His voice sounded raspy like he needed a glass of water.

“Do you know what you would have taken away from me, if she didn’t make it home today?!!” Billy hissed.

Again, the young man repeated himself. “I’m sorry…”

Tears had streaked down all four of their cheeks and one of them actually wet himself.

Billy’s dark eyes shined like two flat black marbles as he pushed the gun harder against the young man’s eye.

“BEG me not to kill you. I wanna hear you beg for your lives…ALL of you.” Said Billy.

They all begged to live until they were red in the face. They were all sobbing.

They didn’t want to die tonight.

“ANY of you do something like this again, I WILL come back and kill you all. I will not think twice about it and I’ll sleep well knowing that you won’t be able to do this to anyone else ever again. DO. YOU. UNDERSTAND. ME?” Billy’s voice dropped and he was calm again.

They all nodded and Billy backed out of that room, holstered his weapon, and left.

With your bag slung over his shoulder he made his way home. He thought about how easily he could have killed them, four shots, four bullets to the skull without a second thought. But he gave them all a second chance; a chance to turn their life around away from crime.

It was a chance he had after leaving the group home, a chance to live, to work hard, to make friends and friends like family. But also a chance to find love.

And he was so grateful for all of those chances…hopefully they would be too.

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