#queen of social media | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

agentstarkid · 23 days ago

Text

THREE POINTS WHERE TWO LINES MEET ✦ DR3

✦ PAIRING: daniel ricciardo x famous!latina!reader

✦ CHECKERED FLAG: 10.6K words

✦ TRACK LIMITS: jelousy, fluff, angst, depresh sesh with Danielito.

✦ MAY'S RADIO: TA-DAAA! First fic of 2025 💪🏽 I was dying to get to thissss that I started writing it back in June, way before I even started Revenant 😅 dialogues are my nightmare but I reaaaally tried to add as much as I could so I hope you guys like this! Alsoo, first official Dan-Y/N encounter since their breakup lezzz gooo 😎

Part of The Joker & The Queen series | Set during Revenant.

divider: cafekitsune

< previous | series masterlist | general masterlist | next >

As spring unfolded its tender touch during the second week of May, the gentle breezes and soft sunlight of the Venetian landscape painted the city with a palette of warmth and tranquility. Throughout the day, the sun casted its golden rays upon the city's timeless architecture and labyrinthine canals, infusing every corner with a sense of ethereal beauty.

He could see the people around him, familiar and unfamiliar faces alike as the sun dipped slowly below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the picturesque city as anticipation hung in the air like delicate lace. Chloe and Scotty's wedding weekend was in full swing, with laughter and love weaving through every corner of the estate.

As Daniel stepped into the elegant hall of the hotel where the rehearsals were being held, his heart fluttered with a mix of nerves and anticipation. He knew she was part of Chloe’s bridesmaid entourage—the bride made it known to him every chance she had these past months, as a way to prepare him for that moment? To warn him to behave? All of the above? Who knew; he certainly did not.

It had been so long since he last saw her, and now, with the wedding rehearsals underway, he couldn't shake the feeling of excitement tinged with uncertainty. He scanned the gathering group, hoping to catch a glimpse of her familiar figure among the throng of guests, but she was nowhere to be seen.

“Let's start!” came the voice of the wedding coordinator, breaking through Daniel's thoughts. He shifted nervously, his eyes darting around in search of her, but she remained elusive. “Are we, um, all here?” Daniel asked, his voice betraying a hint of disappointment.

Chloe, having been close enough to hear it, exchanged a knowing glance with Daniel before replying, “Yes, Dan. We're all here.” Her words held a deeper meaning that only he seemed to grasp, and he fell silent, his mind filled with a whirlwind of emotions as she left to take her place at the back of the forming line of bridesmaids and groomsmen where Lance was already waiting for her.

As the rehearsal unfolded, Daniel couldn't shake the feeling of disappointment mingled with a glimmer of hope. She was nowhere to be seen in that room, but there was one groomsman without a partner. Despite the festive atmosphere surrounding him, and as he watched the bridal party practice their steps, his thoughts drifted to her, wondering where she could be now. Daniel couldn't shake the sense of longing that lingered in his heart, a silent ache for the one who was conspicuously absent from the proceedings.

The evening progressed with lots of laughter caused by shared shenanigans—with him being one of the main perpetrators—and tears of sweet affection. He willed his head—and his heart—to shake off all the worries surrounding the mysterious absence of a certain Latina singer. It wasn’t right, he told himself. They were not together; in fact, he was in a happy relationship with a sweet and beautiful girl who helped him go through his calamitous last year as a driver for the team in Wokings. Someone who was waiting for him in their hotel room unaware that his thoughts were riddled with eyes like a kaleidoscope, ever-changing and full of wonder, and an adventurous and kind personality to complement them.

—

In the hours leading up to the wedding, Daniel found himself surrounded by the groom and his band of groomsmen, their laughter echoing through the luxurious suite where they had gathered. Scotty, the groom-to-be, was the center of attention, his nerves masked by an infectious grin as he basked in the camaraderie of his closest friends.

Amidst the banter and jests about Scotty's impending journey into married life, Daniel couldn't shake the lingering thoughts of her that plagued his mind. As he joined in the laughter and good-natured ribbing, a part of him remained lost in a world of uncertainty, wondering if she would make it to the wedding, if she would grace the occasion with her presence.

As Daniel and Scotty shared a moment away from the hustle and bustle of wedding preparations, Daniel couldn't resist the urge to broach the subject that had been weighing on his mind. With a casual tone masking the underlying curiosity, Daniel sidled up to Scotty, hoping to glean some insight into her absence.

“Hey, man,” Daniel began, trying to keep his voice light as he casually leaned against the nearby railing. “Uh, I noticed Y/N wasn't at the rehearsals earlier. Everything okay with her?”

Scotty glanced at Daniel, a knowing glint in his eye as he caught onto the true reason behind Daniel's inquiry. With a small smirk, he leaned in closer, his voice lowered to a conspiratorial whisper.

“Ah, mate, don't worry about her,” Scotty replied, his tone filled with amusement. “She's still Chloe's bridesmaid. She just had some schedule issues, couldn't make it to the rehearsals.”

Daniel's eyebrows lifted in surprise, relief washing over him at the explanation. “Really? That’s it?”

Scotty chuckled, nodding in confirmation. “Yep, that's it. But you know Chloe, she's always got everything under control. When Sparky apologized profusely to her, telling her she had to decline the role, she refused to not have her by her side. So she told her that she shouldn’t worry, she knows that she’s capable of walking in a straight line.”

Daniel couldn't help but laugh at the image of the blonde heiress' straightforward response, feeling a weight lifted off his shoulders at the reassurance that there was nothing amiss. With a grateful smile, Daniel thanked Scotty for clearing up the mystery, the tension that had been lingering in his mind dissipating into the warm evening air.

As they rejoined the festivities, a sense of ease settled over him, surprising him. He convinced himself that it didn’t mean anything else but an innocent curiosity. But deep down, he couldn't help but look forward to the possibility of seeing her once more.

—

As he made his way to the canals where the wooden runabouts awaited to ferry the wedding party to the venue, a flurry of emotions churned within him. The anticipation of the impending ceremony mingled with a sense of apprehension as thoughts of Y/N lingered at the forefront of his mind. He glanced around, the bustling activity of the waterfront doing little to distract him from the turmoil within. He knew he was only moments away from seeing her again.

Thump, thump, thump, his heart quickened its pace in a tumultuous symphony.

Despite his attempts to maintain a composed exterior, subtle signs of his inner turmoil began to betray his true feelings. His fingers fidgeted nervously with the buttons on his camera, betraying the restless energy that coursed through him. It was just the jitters and anticipation in the air, he tried to convince himself.

Despite the thrumming excitement that pulsed through his veins, a subtle undercurrent of anxiety gnawed at his insides. What would she say? How would she react to seeing him after so long? Would she even greet him or just completely ignore his presence? Even though he once was able to read her perfectly, people can change a lot in a year—he was the perfect image for that statement. And he knows his words and actions in the past had hurt her deeply. And if she decided he was not worthy of a tiny bit of her attention, he’d understand. His heart would have to learn to, too.

The wooden runabout cut through the tranquil waters of the Venetian canals, its sleek form gliding effortlessly beneath the warm Mediterranean sun. Daniel sat among the groomsmen, the camaraderie of the group, the laughter and banter, provided a welcome distraction from the nervous anticipation that pulsed through him.

As the boat rounded a bend in the canal, the wedding venue came into view, its elegant façade bathed in the soft glow of the afternoon sun. A surge of adrenaline coursed through Daniel's veins as they drew nearer, the realization that the moment he had been waiting for was finally at hand.

With each passing moment, the anticipation grew, the air crackling with energy as they approached the dock. As the runabout slowed to a stop, Daniel's heart raced with excitement, his gaze fixed on the venue ahead. Just a few more minutes.

As he scanned the crowd, he could see guests lined the pier, from the bride and groom's families to friends, all gathered to celebrate the love and union of Scotty and Chloe.

Then, amidst the gentle lapping of the water against the wooden dock, another sleek runabout emerged on the horizon. Its silhouette glided gracefully through the shimmering waters, its occupants a vision of elegance and grace. Daniel's breath caught in his throat as he watched the bridesmaid runabout draw nearer, his pulse quickening with each passing moment.

And then, as the runabout neared the dock and came into full view, Daniel's gaze locked onto her. She stood at the bow of the boat, her figure illuminated by the soft afternoon light, a vision of beauty that took his breath away. Her long, flowing taupe dress cascaded elegantly down her back, the neckline dipped modestly drawing the eye to the décolletage while hinting at a subtle allure that captivated him instantly.

As she stepped onto the dock, her eyes met his, a fleeting moment of connection that sent a surge of electricity coursing through him. In that instant, everything else faded away—the bustling crowd, the scenic backdrop of Venice—and all that mattered was the magnetic pull between them, drawing them inexorably closer with each passing heartbeat.

Daniel felt a rush of emotions wash over him as he drank in the sight of her, her presence stirring something deep within his soul. Despite the passing time and the distance that had separated them, the connection between them remained palpable, a silent reminder of the bond they shared.

The breeze gently tousled her hair, framing her face with an ethereal glow. As she approached with the rest of the bridesmaids, for a fleeting moment, he dared to hope that she was coming to speak to him, that they would have a chance to exchange words amidst the bustling crowd.

As she drew closer, Daniel's pulse quickened with anticipation, his eyes fixed on her with a mixture of longing and apprehension. He could feel the weight of their shared history hanging in the air, the memories of their past flooding his mind with a bittersweet intensity.

But as she reached him, her gaze met his once more with a polite smile and a tiny nod of her head in acknowledgment. Daniel's heart sank with disappointment as he realized that she was simply acknowledging his presence, nothing more. There was no lingering glance, no hint of the connection that once bound them together.

With a heavy heart, he watched as she walked past him, he could see her greeting her partner with a bright smile and a cheerful hello, arm in arm as they made their way to their designated places.

And yet, despite the ache of longing that lingered within him, Daniel couldn't help but admire the grace and poise with which she carried herself. She was a vision of elegance and beauty, her presence commanding attention even as she moved past him with quiet determination.

Once the wedding ceremony commenced, Daniel found himself swept up in a whirlwind of emotions, his eyes fixated on the breathtaking scene unfolding before him. The Italian vineyard-turned-venue was adorned with a constellation of white floral arrangements and greenery, creating an atmosphere of romance and enchantment that seemed to permeate the air.

His attention was drawn to the front of the venue as the bridal procession began, and his heart skipped a beat as he caught sight of Y/N walking down the aisle with one of the groomsmen by her side. She was radiant, her beauty illuminated by the natural light bathing the place.

Once they reached the end of the aisle, everyone took a seat at the front. He was seated on the third row, giving him the perfect view of the Latin artist who was sitting on the second row at his right. As the ceremony progressed, the vows were exchanged and the couple pledged their love to one another, while Daniel found himself lost in a sea of conflicting emotions. Despite his best efforts to focus on the proceedings unfolding before him, his attention was drawn inexorably to her, his eyes tracing her every movement with an intensity he couldn't quite explain. He knew he was being selfish and stupid, he knew his girlfriend was right behind him, but his brain was too in sync with his heart at the moment to care.

She didn’t look at him once.

His heart longed for just one glance, one opportunity to feel her gaze on him, but her eyes stayed glued to the couple. Teary-eyed and soft, and her smile…

My God, her smile.

Her smile had a way of lighting up her entire face. There was something infectious about the way her lips curved upwards, something that made it impossible not to smile in return.

At one point during the ceremony, Daniel glanced over his shoulder to see Blake watching him from the back row, sitting next to the Austrian-Portuguese actress, a knowing and disapproving look in his eyes. Daniel's heart skipped a beat as he realized that Blake had noticed his behavior, his thoughts laid bare for all to see.

It was clear to Blake that his friend's feelings for Y/N ran deep, despite the passage of time and the heartache that had ensued. As he sat next to Heidi, Daniel's current girlfriend, Blake couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy for the girl. He could see the way her eyes flickered with uncertainty as she observed Daniel's glances directed at Y/N, a silent witness to the undeniable affection that still lingered.

Despite his loyalty to his friend, Blake couldn't ignore the underlying sense of guilt that gnawed at him. He knew that Heidi deserved better than to be caught in the crossfire of Daniel's unresolved feelings for Y/N. And as he watched the scene unfold before him, Blake couldn't help but feel a sense of sorrow for all those involved.

—

After the newlyweds sealed their union with a tender kiss and walked down the aisle to the cheers and applause from those in attendance, he made his way to the pier accompanied by Blake and Heidi, a pang of guilt tugged at his heart as he observed their easy camaraderie, the warmth of their interaction highlighting the contrast to the unsettled feelings brewing within him. Even as he engaged in small talk, his heart wasn’t in it.

As they boarded the wooden runabout, Daniel's conflicting emotions threatened to consume him. On one hand, there was the comfort and easiness of his relationship with Heidi, the stability she offered amidst the chaos of his fast-paced life. Yet, on the other hand, there was the lingering memory of Y/N, her presence haunting him like a ghost from the past. Deep down, he couldn't shake the gnawing sense of longing that tugged at his heart, a silent plea for resolution amidst the tempestuous sea of emotions that threatened to engulf him.

He would approach her at the party and he’d ask her how she's been, he decided. Another wave of thoughts crashed into his head. Did she come alone? If she didn’t, did she come with a friend or a date? Sure, he knows about her new relationship. Richard? Rafael? Raúl? Whatever his name was, she looked happy.

—

As the yacht filled with the star-studded guest list, Chloe & Scotty’s Italian Market Fiesta basked in the last rays of the setting sun. Daniel, now in an emerald-colored suit with a floral shirt underneath, boarded the luxurious vessel with Heidi’s hand clasped in his. After being throughoutly lectured by Blake, which included a very serious “you need to get a grip, mate”, he willed himself to enjoy the party and focus on his girlfriend, who by the way looked stunning in a long dark blue dress with a straight-across neckline.

But, as if being mocked by fate, she appeared. Daniel's breath caught in his throat as he watched Y/N make her way onto the deck, her figure bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun. Apparently, he wasn’t alone in his idea of a quick outfit change. If she looked breathtakingly beautiful before, she looked intoxicatingly divine with her majestic blue, backless halter dress clinging to her curves in all the right places.

But Daniel's heart sank as he realized that she wasn't alone. Beside her stood another figure, tall and imposing, his presence commanding attention even from a distance. Though Daniel couldn't see his face clearly, there was something about the way the brown-haired man carried himself that spoke of strength and confidence.

As Y/N and her companion made their way inside the yacht, Daniel couldn't tear his gaze away. He felt a pang of jealousy gnaw at him. And yet, despite the ache in his heart, he couldn't help but admire the way she looked, the way she moved or the way she seemed to light up when the brunette whispered in her ear.

Despite his best efforts to push down the rising tide of jealousy and longing, Daniel couldn't help but feel a pang of regret with each stolen glance at the pair. He watched as they danced together, shared kisses and what struck him harder was the way she looked at him. He’s seen that look in her eyes before—Hell, he was the reflection on those bright eyes once.

“Hey, isn't that Rúben Dias over there?” Heidi wondered aloud, making their little group turn and glance in the direction of the singer and her companion, “He’s a Portuguese footballer, he plays on the national team.” she explained once she saw one of their friends’ questioning gaze.

“Oh yeah, that's him! He's a beast on the field, one of the best defenders out there.” added excitedly Sean, Scotty’s younger brother.

“Yeah, he's been killing it for Manchester City lately. Solid player. Considered one of the best defenders in the world, actually.” one of the group chimed in.

“Y/N seems like she has a thing for #3 athletes, doesn't she?” Another one jested making the group chuckle as they eyed Daniel waiting for his reaction, but he could only offer them a fake smile.

“Hey, can't blame her! I’ve met Rúben before, he is a class act on and off the field.” his girlfriend spoke up in their defense.

As Blake observed Daniel's reserved demeanor amidst the lively chatter of their friends, a pang of empathy tugged at his heart. He could sense the maelstrom brewing beneath the surface of Daniel's quiet façade, the storm of emotions raging within him as he listened to their friends discuss Y/N and her new boyfriend.

Despite Daniel's best efforts to conceal his feelings, Blake could see the turmoil etched into the lines of his friend's face—the subtle tensing of his jaw, the distant look in his eyes. It was instantly clear to Blake that Daniel was grappling with a whirlwind of emotions, torn between his lingering feelings for Y/N and the painful reality of her newfound happiness with someone else.

“Seriously, she has good taste.” declared one of their mates’ girlfriends.

Daniel listened intently as his friends continued to sing Rúben's praises, absorbing every detail about the man who had captured Y/N's attention.

The long-haired blonde turned to him suddenly, “Daniel, have you met him before?”

His eyes widened a little, clearly caught off guard “No, uh—” he cleared his throat, trying to get rid of the lump that had suddenly found its way there. “I haven't had the pleasure.”

“Well, he seems like a great guy. She looks really happy with him.” Blake, ever the diplomat, tried to end the topic for his friends’ sakes.

“Yeah, she does. They make a cute couple.”

“Definitely. You can tell there's something special between them.”

And they kept going. Some people just couldn’t grasp subtle cues it seems.

“And did you see the way she looks at him? It's like she's looking at her whole world.”

He needed to remove himself from this conversation, and he needed to do it fast. It won't be long until he could not fake the unbothered façade anymore.

He leaned toward Heidi to tell her he was heading to grab a drink. For a moment, she just stared at him, her eyes searching his face like she could see the turmoil he was trying so hard to hide. He worried she actually could. Something flickered in her expression—hesitation, or maybe quiet understanding—but it was gone as quickly as it came. She offered him a small smile and leaned in to press a gentle kiss to his lips, whispering a small okay. So he excused himself to the group and made his way to the open bar.

Daniel stood near the bar, nursing a glass of whiskey that was more for appearances than comfort. He couldn’t seem to focus on the conversations swirling around him, his gaze consistently drifting toward the far side of the room. There she was—Y/N L/N, his Chip, though she hadn’t been his for over a year. She glided across the room with the same effortless grace she always had, only now her hand was looped securely through the arm of Rúben Dias.

He clenched his jaw as he watched them laugh together, her eyes sparkling in the soft light. It wasn’t fair. How could she still have this effect on him? Worse, how could she look so at ease, so radiant, when his chest felt like it was being crushed by the weight of her absence?

“Bro, what the hell are you doing?” Blake’s voice cut through his spiraling thoughts. Daniel turned to find his best friend giving him a pointed look.

“What d’you mean?” Daniel replied, feigning ignorance as he took a sip of his drink.

“You know exactly what I mean,” Blake shot back, crossing his arms. “You’ve been staring at her all night. Do you think Heidi hasn’t noticed? Because she has.”

Daniel winced, glancing over to where Heidi was engaged in conversation with their group of friends. She hadn’t said anything, but he knew Blake was right. He wasn’t exactly being subtle.

Blake stepped closer, lowering his voice. “Look, I get it, man. Seeing her with someone else—it’s brutal. And I told you this already, but you need to pull yourself together. Either go talk to her or let it go, because this… whatever this is—it’s not fair to anyone, least of all yourself.”

Daniel ran a hand through his hair, his frustration bubbling to the surface. “What am I supposed to say to her, man? ‘Sorry I broke your heart, but I’m still not over you’? That I hate seeing her with him even though she deserves to be happy? What good would that do?”

Blake sighed, his expression softening. “I’m not saying it’s easy. But sitting here stewing in your jealousy isn’t helping either. If you want to move on, you have to face her. Otherwise, you’ll just keep torturing yourself—and dragging everyone else down with you.”

But what if he didn’t want to move on from her?

Daniel looked back across the room, his heart twisting as Y/N leaned into Rúben’s side, her smile wide and genuine. Blake was right, of course. He always was. But knowing what to do and having the courage to do it were two very different things.

For now, all Daniel could do was watch and wonder if he’d ever get the chance to tell her the truth—that losing her was the biggest mistake of his life.

Daniel exhaled shakily, his grip tightening on his glass. Blake had walked away, leaving him alone with his thoughts, but the pep talk only added fuel to the fire of emotions raging within him. He knew he didn’t deserve Y/N’s forgiveness, much less a sliver of her attention, not after everything he’d done. But seeing her here, in person, for the first time in over a year—alive and glowing in a way that made his heart ache—was undoing him.

He thought he’d buried these feelings, shoved them deep down where they couldn’t hurt him anymore. But now they were surging back like a tidal wave, crashing into him with a force that left him feeling dizzy and as though a boulder was sitting on his chest. Every laugh she shared with Rúben, every gentle touch between them, felt like another twist of the knife.

She hadn’t so much as glanced at him all night, her gaze firmly fixed on the footballer, as though he were the center of her universe. And maybe he was now. The way she looked at the Portuguese man—it was devastating. It wasn’t just admiration; it was awe, reverence, the kind she reserved for things that truly moved her.

Daniel had seen that look before—back when she’d gazed at him with the same adoration, back when she believed in him, in them. Now, it was directed at someone else, and it felt like losing her all over again. He thought about how she used to light up when talking about her favorite museum pieces, those marble statues she loved so much. She’d tell him their stories with wide eyes, her voice animated with wonder, like they were alive to her. That was how she looked at Rúben now.

He exhaled sharply, rubbing a hand over his face. He was angry at himself. Angry that he’d let her slip through his fingers. Angry that he hadn’t been the man she needed when it mattered most.

But he was trying.

Since that disastrous day in Bahrain when everything fell apart, Daniel had been putting in the work. Therapy sessions every week, cutting ties with the people who only dragged him down, facing parts of himself he’d been too scared to confront before. He didn’t do it for anyone else. No, deep down, he knew the truth. He was doing it for her.

He never admitted it out loud, not even to Blake. The idea was locked away deep inside him, buried under layers of denial and self-preservation. But it was there, a quiet, stubborn hope he carried in his heart. He wanted to be worthy of her—for real this time. Maybe, just maybe, if he could get himself together, he could be the man she deserved.

His reasons were fucked up, he was aware of it. He was being a right asshole to Heidi and she didn’t deserve it. But as much as he tried—and God knows he did—he couldn’t, wouldn’t, imagine a lifetime with her, not the way he did a relationship ago. Heidi deserved more, so much more than he could ever give her. She deserved something extraordinary, something life-changing, and all he had to offer was something half-hearted and incomplete.

She deserved more than being a placeholder for someone he could never forget. He hated himself for it, for dragging her into this mess and making her believe there could be more when deep down, he knew there wasn’t.

And Y/N… God, Y/N. She deserved the world, and he’d failed her in every way that mattered. She deserves someone who could keep their promises, someone who wouldn’t falter when things got hard. Someone who could meet her where she was, with all her brilliance and light, and not let her down. He hadn’t been that person—not then, and not now.

He wasn’t sure he’d ever be. But the persistent, selfish part of him, refused to give up. For her, he’d keep trying. He’d work on himself to the end of time if it meant even the slightest chance of being worthy of her one day.

He knew it might never be enough. She might never look at him again the way she once did. But if there was even the smallest chance, he would take it. Because she was the one thing in his life that had ever truly made sense, and if there was one thing he could promise himself, it was that he would never stop trying to be the man she deserved—even if it took him forever.

His mind drifted to the thought about the promises he’d made to her, the dreams they’d shared. The ring he’d once hinted at, the home they’d talked about, the life they’d planned together. Cradles, forever, love. He’d imagined it all with her. And then he’d ruined it.

Daniel’s chest tightened at the memory of her tears that day in Bahrain, the anguish in her voice as she asked him why she wasn’t enough. He’d replayed it a thousand times, haunted by the knowledge that he was the one who’d broken her.

He hadn’t seen her since—until now. And seeing her again, radiant and happy in the arms of another man, made him realize just how much he still loved her.

But what could he do? What right did he have to interfere in her happiness? She deserves someone who could give her everything she wanted, someone who wouldn’t let her down.

And yet, the thought of her looking at Rúben the way she used to look at him—like he was her world—was unbearable.

—

On the other side of the room, the sound of Y/N’s laughter floated above the hum of conversations and the soft clinking of glasses. Seated beside Rúben, she looked every bit the picture of ease and joy, her eyes alight as she listened to him recount a story from Man City’s dressing room.

“It was Jack, of course,” Rúben said, a smirk playing on his lips as he leaned slightly closer to her. “Who else would grab the wrong tub of protein powder and not realize it until it was all over his hair?”

“No,” she gasped, her laugh spilling out before she could even stop herself with her hand lightly touching his arm as she wiped at the corner of her eye. “Please tell me someone got it on video.”

“They did,” Rúben said with a nod, his own chuckle rumbling low and warm. “But Jack’s sworn revenge on anyone who tries to leak it, so for now, it’s staying in the group chat.”

She shook her head, the laughter still bubbling in her chest. “I’m actually curious to hear what his payback will be.”

The two shared a grin, completely engrossed in the lighthearted conversation. Y/N’s cheeks were flushed from laughter, her posture relaxed in a way that suggested she was finally letting herself enjoy the evening.

Just as she reached for her glass of wine, a woman in a sleek black dress approached the table, her presence calm but purposeful. “Excuse me, Miss Y/N?” the woman said politely.

The Latina artist turned to her with an easy smile, the warmth of the moment still lingering on her face. “Yes?”

“The bride and groom are about to begin their first dance,” the woman said, clearly part of the wedding staff, her tone soft but clear. “Mrs. James asked me to let you know it’s time.”

For a moment, her breath hitched, the weight of the request settling over her. A month ago, Chloe had asked her to sing during their first dance—a deeply personal and intimate request that she had accepted after much persuasion from the Canadian heiress. She didn’t think she was worthy of that honor but when Chloe set her mind onto something, she always gets what she wants. So she'd spent hours preparing, carefully choosing the song and rehearsing until every note felt perfect. But now, with the moment upon her, nerves pricked at the edges of her confidence.

Her eyes darted across the room instinctively, landing for just a second on a curly-haired man. Daniel was leaning against the bar, drink in hand, his profile sharp under the dim light. She caught the faintest hint of a furrow between his brows, a trace of something unreadable in his expression. For a fleeting second, she wondered if he knew she was about to perform—if he’d even care. But she quickly dismissed the silly thought, quickly pulling her gaze away before their eyes could meet.

She glanced at Rúben, her nerves briefly flickering across her face. He noticed immediately, leaning in closer with a small, reassuring smile that sent a wave of warmth through her. “Hey,” he said softly, tilting his head to catch her gaze. “You’ll be amazing, anjo” he said simply, his voice steady and calm.

The sincerity in his tone steadied her, and she gave him a grateful smile before leaning in to kiss him. His hand, which had rested lightly on her face earlier, moved to the back of her head, his fingers tangling gently in her hair as he let out a soft sigh. Before she broke the kiss, she caught his bottom lip between her teeth, teasingly soft but enough to draw a low sound from his throat that sent a shiver through her.

When she pulled back, his gaze was dark with warmth, a look that said he couldn’t get enough of her. He chuckled lowly, brushing his thumb across her bottom lip. “You are trouble,” he whispered, his voice laced with affection and something else that excited her.

A cheeky smile tugged at her lips as she kissed his thumb lightly. “Go,” he said, his grin widening as he motioned toward the piano on the side of the dance floor. “You’ve got this.”

“Thank you,” she said, her voice quiet but full of meaning, before standing, smoothing the fabric of her dress and turning to head toward the dance floor, her nerves replaced with a gentle hum of excitement.

Her heart thudded in her chest, but there was a warmth that spread through her, all thanks to his words and that quiet, lingering kiss.

She reached the piano placed on a corner where Chloe and Scotty were already standing, smiling up at her. Chloe’s eyes sparkled with excitement, and Scotty’s grin was wide and proud. The married couple greeted her warmly, their smiles wide with appreciation. They spoke to her for a moment, sharing how much it meant to them that she was there, their words full of gratitude. She could see how happy they were, how much they truly loved each other, and it made her heart swell.

She quickly hugged them both and before she made her way toward the piano, Chloe gave her hand a light squeeze and a smile. Oh, she could feel the tears on her water line. ¡Ay, no! she was getting emotional and she hasn’t even sung yet. She gave her best friend a warm smile and her hand a squeeze back before she took her place in front of the black and white keys.

The room grew a little quieter as the master of ceremony’s voice filled the air, announcing the couple’s first dance. The lights above the dance floor softened, dimming the atmosphere just enough to create a magical glow, drawing everyone’s attention to the center.

With a steadying breath, her fingers gently brushed the first notes of the song. The melody started slow and soft, cascading through the room like a gentle wave, its rhythm weaving seamlessly with the heartfelt atmosphere surrounding her.

The song began to fill the space, and the newlyweds took their place on the dance floor, their eyes locked in a moment of pure joy as they held each other close.

As her voice joined the piano’s melody, the room seemed to hold its breath, captivated by the raw beauty of her performance. The happy couple moved in sync to the music, their steps gentle and unhurried, their smiles radiant as they swayed together under the soft glow of the lights.

She had written this song once upon a time with someone else in mind—a love that had been everything to her until it wasn’t.

The memories tugged at her heart as she sang, but she didn’t let them overwhelm her. Tonight wasn’t about the past. It was about Chloe and Scotty, about celebrating their love and giving them something beautiful to hold onto forever. Still, the meaning behind the lyrics—so raw, so honest—flowed through her as if they had been written for this exact moment.

The bride and groom danced gracefully in the soft glow of the lights, completely lost in each other. Chloe rested her head on her husband's shoulder, her eyes closed as if savoring every word and every note. The Aussie held her close, his hand gently stroking her back in time with the rhythm, his smile soft but radiant.

Y/N’s gaze flickered over the scene, and a bittersweet ache settled in her chest. This song had meant something entirely different when she wrote it, but now, seeing it through a new lens, it felt reborn. It was no longer a relic of what she’d lost but a gift of love she could give to two people who truly deserved it.

How long will I love you?

As long as stars are above you

And longer if I can

Her voice carried the weight of the lyrics, a vulnerability woven into every word.

Her eyes betrayed her resolve as they scanned the crowd, searching for something—someone. And then she found him. Daniel’s brown eyes were fixed firmly on her, his face unreadable except for the unmistakable depth of emotion etched into his features. He looked like a man in agony. Like a man who had just realized that every note, every lyric, was meant for him.

How long will I need you?

As long as the seasons need to

follow their plan

When their eyes met, she swore she saw him exhale deeply, his shoulders sagging just slightly as if a long-held breath had finally escaped. The intensity in his gaze burned into her, and for a fleeting second, the room seemed to dissolve around them. But the moment was too raw, too overwhelming. She quickly broke the eye contact, her throat tightening as she focused back on the married couple swaying on the dance floor.

Her heart pounded in her chest, her emotions threatening to spill over as she fought to keep her composure. A few tears slipped down her cheeks, and she desperately tried to stabilize her breathing, silently praying no one noticed. If they did, she hoped they’d assume her tears were for Chloe and Scotty—a friend overcome with joy for the couple. But she knew better. The bittersweet melancholy spreading through her veins wasn’t for them.

For a moment, as her fingers danced over the keys, her mind betrayed her completely. She allowed herself to imagine this moment as hers. She saw herself as the bride, the glow of love and devotion surrounding her. But when her mind filled in the groom’s face, it wasn’t Rúben who smiled back at her. It was Daniel. Those deep brown eyes, a smile so wide it revealed his dimples, the well-trimmed beard framing his face, and that unmistakable roman nose. The vision was so vivid that it nearly stopped her hands mid-song.

How long will I be with you?

As long as the sea is bound to

wash upon the sand

A wave of guilt crashed over her, snapping her back to reality. She cast a glance toward her table, where Rúben sat watching her with a soft smile. When their eyes met, he mouthed a quiet “I love you,” his expression so genuine it made her chest ache. The guilt spread like wildfire, consuming her. He didn’t deserve this. He didn’t deserve a partner whose heart faltered at the sight of someone else.

The piano’s final notes lingered in the air as her voice softened into a delicate whisper for the last line:

"How long will I love you? As long as stars are above you, and longer if I may."

The soft notes of a new melody began to drift through the room. When the singer had sent a selection of songs—some released, others still unreleased—to the couple, Chloe had secretly asked her if she could add a little bit of the song to the first one, as a surprise to her fiancé. In the end, she created a mash-up, blending two of her most personal pieces into one seamless arrangement. The couple had loved it instantly, but not before hesitating and gently asking if she was absolutely sure about sharing these songs. They knew their significance, understood who they were meant for. Both songs were deeply personal, ones she had kept tucked away, hidden from the world and guarded within her heart.

'Cause I walked down the aisle

When I first walked up to you

When you asked me out

That's when I said, I do

The preacher will say we're starting a new life

But I took your hand when you first held mine

'Cause it's always been you

And I've always been your wife.

As the final notes of the song faded, she let her hands linger on the keys for a moment, the applause erupting around her almost feeling distant. She rose from the piano bench slowly, her cheeks wet and her heart heavy. Offering a small smile to the bride and the groom, who turned to her with tears in their eyes. Chloe mouthed a heartfelt “Thank you,” while Scotty gave her an appreciative nod and a wink, his arm never leaving his wife’s waist.

She moved back to her seat beside Rúben, his warm hand immediately finding hers. He gave her a gentle squeeze, his smile unshaken, his love unwavering. He pulled her into a gentle embrace. “You were amazing,” he murmured against her temple, his voice low and filled with genuine admiration.

She leaned into his touch, her stomach twisting as the weight of her emotions bore down on her. Tonight wasn’t the time for self-reflection, nor for the ghosts of her past to take hold. But as much as she tried, she couldn’t shake the image of brown eyes staring back at her, seeing everything she’d tried so hard to hide.

—

Daniel didn’t notice the room or the people around him anymore. The moment the first notes of the song began to play, something shifted in him. His chest felt tight, a knot forming in his throat as Y/N’s voice softened, her words taking on a hauntingly familiar tone. He knew this song—no, not because he’d heard it before, but because it was his. It was them.

He swallowed hard, his gaze locking on her as her fingers glided over the piano keys, her voice laced with raw emotion. Every lyric carried a memory, a feeling, a truth that only they shared. He wasn’t sure if anyone else could tell, but he could. He knew.

It hit him all at once: Perth. The ranch. The quiet, unpolluted nights during quarantine when the world outside seemed to stop, and it was just the two of them. A memory unfolded in his mind, vivid and unshakable.

They had been lying on a blanket she insisted they take outside, the cool grass underneath and the vast, star-filled sky above. The ranch had never felt so peaceful. It was early in their relationship, just a few months in, and everything still felt new and exciting, but there was a comfort in being with her that made him feel like he’d known her for years.

“Isn’t it incredible?” she’d whispered, her voice barely louder than the rustle of the breeze. “You don’t get skies like this everywhere. The stars feel... closer here.”

He turned his head to look at her, her features softly illuminated by the moonlight. “Yeah,” he murmured, but he wasn’t looking at the stars.

She laughed softly, catching him staring. “You’re supposed to be looking up, Ricciardo, not at me.”

“I am looking at the stars,” he teased, earning a playful nudge to his side.

For a while, they lay in comfortable silence, the kind that only existed between people who didn’t need to fill the quiet with words. But then she spoke again, her voice thoughtful.

“Do you ever think about how long things last? Like... how long the stars have been here, and how they’ll probably still be here long after we’re gone.”

“Deep thoughts for a Tuesday night,” he joked, but his smile softened when he saw the wistful look in her eyes.

“I just mean... it’s kind of comforting, don’t you think? Knowing something can last that long? Like, how long will I love you?” she asked, her voice dropping to a near whisper.

Her words unexpectedly tugged at something in his chest. This was the first time those three words were being said. He couldn’t stop the smile that spread across his face as he answered softly, “As long as the stars are above you.”

Her eyes met his, glimmering with something he couldn’t quite place but knew he’d never forget. “And longer if I may,” she finished, her voice barely a whisper, yet it carried the weight of a thousand unspoken emotions. A soft smile tugged at her lips, but her eyes told a different story—wide and vulnerable, like she had just handed him her heart and was bracing for what he would do with it.

Daniel's breath hitched, the words hanging in the air between them like a fragile thread. He felt his chest tighten, his pulse quicken, as if the entire world had narrowed down to this single moment under the stars.

Her lips parted as though she might say more, but she didn’t. Instead, the silence stretched, charged and electric, like the split-second before a thunderstorm breaks.

And then, slowly, almost shyly, she leaned into him, resting her head on his shoulder. The contact was soft but grounding, anchoring him to the earth while his mind reeled.

He let out a shaky breath he didn’t realize he’d been holding, his arm instinctively wrapping around her to pull her closer. The words echoed in his head—I may love you longer than the stars. He didn’t say them aloud, but he didn’t need to. The way he pressed his lips to her hair, lingering there for a moment longer than necessary, said it all.

It was the first time she’d told him she loved him, and it wasn’t in those exact words, but Daniel knew it all the same. The stars above bore witness, and he swore he’d never forget the way his heart felt like it was bursting in that moment—full, terrified, and absolutely certain.

The memory faded, but the ache it left behind remained. Daniel blinked, his gaze fixed on her as she sang. Those words, her words, were woven into the song she was performing now. He felt like the air had been knocked out of his lungs.

She’d written these songs for him, about him. And now, she was sharing them with a room full of people. But as her eyes briefly met his, before darting away, he knew she wasn’t singing for them. She was singing for the man she used to believe in, the man he used to be, the man she loved.

He gripped the edge of the table, his knuckles turning white. He didn’t deserve to feel the things he was feeling—not the longing, not the regret, not the faint glimmer of hope that maybe, just maybe, she still remembered too. But it didn’t stop him from feeling them anyway.

—

The soft hum of the party lingered in the background—the murmur of conversations, laughter, and the loud music blending with the faint lapping of water against the yacht. Daniel stood at the edge of the deck, his eyes scanning the scene until they landed on her. Y/N was leaning against the railing, a glass of champagne loosely held in her hand, her gaze lost in the moonlit waves. She looked ethereal, like she belonged to the stars above rather than the world below.

He hesitated, nerves buzzing in his chest. But something pulled him forward—a force stronger than his doubts or the fear of rejection. He couldn’t let the night end without saying something.

“Hey,” he called out softly, his voice cutting through the quiet between them.

She turned her head, startled, her brows lifting in surprise before her expression softened into something unreadable. “Hi.”

He stepped closer, careful not to invade her space, but close enough that her perfume—a familiar scent that made his chest tighten—wafted toward him. “You were incredible tonight,” he said, his tone genuine. “Your performance… It was—” He paused, searching for the right word. “Beautiful.”

Her lips curved into a polite smile, but her eyes didn’t quite meet his. “Thank you.”

Daniel’s hand gripped the railing beside him as he leaned slightly forward, lowering his voice. “Those songs...I-I understood.”

That got her attention. Her head snapped toward him, her eyes wide for a split second before narrowing slightly, guarded. Then, to his surprise, she let out a soft, defeated laugh, shaking her head as she looked away.

“I figured you would,” she said quietly, her voice steady but tinged with a faint melancholy. “You always did pay attention to the details, even when I thought you weren’t.”

He let out a soft chuckle, one that didn’t quite reach his eyes. “Guess I still remember a thing or two.”

That earned him a glance—a fleeting one—but her lips tugged into a faint smile. “Well, they were for Chloe and Scotty tonight. That’s what matters.”

He nodded, his expression thoughtful. “They were beautiful. Your voice, the lyrics—it’s all... breathtaking.”

“Thank you,” she said sincerely, finally turning to face him. The soft glow of the party lights danced in her eyes, but there was a guardedness there, a layer of glass between them he knew he had placed.

They stood in silence for a beat, the sound of music and laughter in the distance filling the gap.

“I’m glad you’re doing well,” he said eventually, his tone warm, genuine. “You deserve it. All of it.”

Y/N inhaled deeply, her gaze dropping for a moment before she lifted it back to his. “I could say the same to you,” she replied, her voice softer now. “It’s... nice to see you in a good place.”

Daniel offered a small smile. “Took some time. Still working on it, you know?”

She nodded. “Aren’t we all?” A moment later she continued, her voice softer now, “We’re not who we used to be.”

Daniel wanted to let her know that he had changed but the words stayed trapped in his throat. Instead, he stayed silent, letting her have the last word.

Finally, she straightened, offering him a more relaxed smile.

“I should get back to the party,” she said, tilting her head toward the music before adding with a faint, almost playful smile, “Y’know, find Rúben before he thinks I fell overboard or something.”

Daniel let out a quiet chuckle, though the mention of her boyfriend stung more than he cared to admit. “Wouldn’t want that. He seems like a good guy.”

“He is,” she said, her tone soft but firm, and for a moment, her smile faltered. “He really is.”

The way her voice carried both affection and something unspoken made Daniel’s chest tighten. He nodded, forcing himself to keep his expression neutral. “Then you better not keep him waiting.”

“I won’t,” she said, her gaze lingering on him for a fraction of a second longer than necessary. “It was... good to see you, Daniel.”

“You too, Y/N,” he replied, his voice quieter now.

With that, she turned and walked back toward the party, her heels clicking softly against the deck. Daniel stood frozen for a moment, the sound of the ocean beneath them mingling with the distant hum of celebration. A part of him wished he could follow her, say more, but another part knew this was all he deserved for now.

—

Daniel was leaning back in his seat, an untouched drink in his hand, his camera hanging from his shoulders. Heidi was perched on his lap, her arm looped around his neck, and Blake was beside him, sipping his drink with a relaxed grin.

Scotty approached them, his cheeks flushed with the telltale signs of celebration. “What a night, huh?” he said with a wide grin, his steps only slightly uneven. “Thought I’d come see how my mates are holding up.”

Blake laughed, raising his glass. “Still alive and kicking.”

“Mate,” Scotty slurred, pointing at Daniel with an exaggerated wave of his hand, “you’re sitting there like a goddamn statue. What’s the matter? Too cool to dance now?”

Daniel managed a small laugh, shaking his head. “Just taking a breather, mate. You’ve been going non-stop.”

“That’s what weddings are for!” Scotty exclaimed, throwing his arms wide. His loud proclamation turned a few heads, but he didn’t seem to care.

Chloe joined them moments later, her beaded dress catching the light as she looped an arm around Scotty’s shoulder. Her eyes sparkled with warmth as she took in the group. “Everyone surviving?” she asked with a teasing smile. “Because you all better be ready for round two on the dance floor soon.”

“Haven’t had this much fun in ages,” Blake replied, nudging Daniel’s arm. “This guy’s just taking a little break, saving his energy.”

Chloe nodded approvingly, her grin widening. “Smart move. You don’t want to miss the chaos we’re about to cause.” She turned to Heidi, her tone playful. “You keeping him out of trouble?”

Heidi laughed softly, leaning into Daniel. “Always.”

As they chatted, the mood remained light, full of camaraderie and joy. The faint hum of music and laughter surrounded them, and it was clear that, even in their tipsy states, Scotty and Chloe were mindful of the moment, focusing on the happiness of the night and the people they cared about.

Amidst the lively chatter, Y/N and Rúben passed by, hand in hand as they headed toward the open deck. Chloe’s eyes lit up when she spotted her best friend. “Sparky!” she called, her voice warm and enthusiastic. She stumbled slightly as she let go of Scotty to grab Y/N’s arm to pull her closer.

“Chlo!” Y/N exclaimed, laughing as she steadied her friend. “How much have you had to drink?”

“Just enough to make me happy,” Chloe quipped, her cheeks rosy and her grin wide.

“Having a good time?”

“The best,” Chloe replied, her grin wide. “You’re not getting away just yet. Come, sit for a moment.” She gestured to the empty seats near them.

Rúben followed, a patient smile on his face, but when Chloe grabbed his arm too, dragging him along, he chuckled and let himself be pulled by the bride.

“Look who I found!” She announced triumphantly as if the singer and footballer were a prized discovery.

Daniel’s eyes flickered toward them, his expression carefully composed, though there was an unmistakable tension in his shoulders. He nodded at Y/N and gave a polite smile to Rúben. “Hey,” he said simply.

“Hey,” Y/N replied, her voice even, though her eyes briefly darted toward Heidi, still comfortably seated on Daniel’s lap.

Blake’s face lit up. “Sparkyyyy,” it was clear that he was enjoying the open bar because he shouted with excitement. “It’s been ages! How have you been?”

“I’m good,” she replied warmly, giving him a hug. “It’s nice to see you again, Blakey Blake.” she mumbled into his shoulder, his arms tighten around her frame for a second. “How have you been?”

“Busy, as always,” Blake replied with a chuckle, throwing a teasing glare at Daniel. “But you know how it is.”

“I do,” she replied with a light chuckle.

“Rúben, is it?” The short-haired Aussie extended a hand to her boyfriend, who nodded and shook it firmly, “Blake.” he introduced himself.

“Pleasure to meet you, Blake.” he replied, leaning into her again. “And Heidi, right?” Rúben said with his trademark charm.

“Yes,” she replied, her smile softening slightly. “We’ve crossed paths before, haven’t we? A couple of events in Lisbon?”

Rúben nodded, a small smile on his lips. “That’s right. It’s good to see you again.”

Heidi returned the smile, though there was a hint of caution in her eyes as they flicked briefly to Y/N. “Likewise.”

Y/N, ever composed, stepped in with ease. “Heidi, it’s wonderful to meet you properly. You look absolutely stunning tonight.”

“Thank you,” the blonde replied, her tone polite. “You look beautiful as well. It’s no surprise everyone’s still talking about your performance earlier.”

She gave a modest smile—those countless hours of PR classes did come in handy sometimes. “That’s very kind of you to say. It was truly an honor to be part of such a special night for these two.” She grinned, jerking her thumb towards the couple.

Chloe, a little tipsy but ever attuned to the nuances around her, joined the conversation with a light laugh. “Y/N’s being modest. She’s a force of nature. The honor was ours actually”

“Chloe,” She said with a gentle, reproachful tone, though her smile softened the words. “You’re too kind.”

“Not at all!” Chloe insisted, her words slightly slurred but earnest. Her gaze flickered briefly between both women, sensing the subtle tension. Inwardly, she chastised herself for her tipsiness, hoping she wasn’t making things worse. “Anyway, it’s just so nice to see everyone together.”

Rúben’s hand tightened slightly on his girlfriend’s waist, a subtle reassurance that she acknowledged with a barely perceptible glance upward. Daniel, though silent, couldn’t help but steal glances at the interaction. His jaw tightened imperceptibly when caught the gesture and quickly looked away.

“It really is,” She agreed, her voice calm and measured. Her gaze briefly met Heidi’s. “I’m glad we could all be here to celebrate Chloe and Scotty.”

“Me too,” Heidi replied, her tone polite, though her fingers fidgeted slightly with the stem of her glass. “They’re such a beautiful couple.”

“They are,” Rúben agreed, his deep voice steady as he gave Chloe a warm smile. “A perfect match.”

Chloe’s laughter bubbled up again, breaking some of the tension. “Alright, alright, enough about me and Scotty. You guys have to tell me,” she said, pointing a manicured finger at the woman and her boyfriend. “What’s your secret? You two look like a fucking movie poster.”

Y/N laughed softly, exchanging a look with Rúben. “No secret,” she said lightly. “We just clean up well.”

Rúben chuckled, moving her in front of his toned body and wrapping an arm around her. “And she makes it easy,” he added, with a kiss to her hair, his faint accent lacing the words with warmth.

Chloe sighed dramatically, placing a hand over her heart. “You two are disgustingly perfect. I love it.”

Daniel’s grip on his glass tightened slightly, but he kept his expression calm, a fake smile adorning his lips, nodding along to the conversation. Heidi shifted on his lap, leaning into him slightly, but he barely noticed.

As the conversation began to settle, Chloe, clearly still tipsy but determined to contribute something cheerful, leaned closer to Y/N with a bright smile. “You know, the invitation to the familymoon is still open. A whole week in Italy, just us and family, eating pasta and drinking wine. Doesn’t that sound perfect?”

Daniel’s eyes widened for a second and his ears perked up instantly. Blake and him were also invited to the trip, a sudden wave of hope bloomed in his chest. Y/N chuckled softly, her smile polite as she shook her head. “That’s so sweet of you, babes, but my answer still stands,” she gave her a fake chastised look. “I’ll have to pass this time.”

Chloe pouted playfully. “Come on, babes, you work too hard. It’ll be fun!”

“I’m sure it will,” Y/N replied with a light laugh. Then, with a subtle shift in her tone, she added, “But I’ll be busy celebrating with my man.” she looked up at him with a cheeky smile on her lips, placing a hand on his toned chest. “His team’s about to clinch the Premier League title in a few days, and I’m confident we’ll be celebrating a Champions League win next month too.”

Rúben gave her a small, knowing smile, his humility evident even as he nodded. “We’re working hard for it. Nothing’s guaranteed yet, though.”

“Don’t be so modest,” She teased, glancing up at him with a proud sparkle in her eye. “You’ve been phenomenal this season.”

Rúben gave a small, humble shrug, his lips curving into a modest smile. “It’s a team effort.”

Daniel couldn’t help but feel a slight pang of envy at the comment. While her tone was light, the pride in her words stung in a way he didn’t expect. His own career felt like it was hanging in limbo—a state of uncertainty he was getting accustomed to. Though he was in conversation with AlphaTauri to race in the remaining events of the season, nothing had been finalized, leaving him feeling adrift.

Chloe grinned, picking up on the subtle brag and clapping her hands together. “Alright, fine. I guess you have a pretty solid excuse. But just know I’ll be texting you pictures of everything you’re missing.”

“I wouldn’t expect anything less,” Y/N replied warmly, her gaze softening toward her friend. “You all deserve to have the best time.”

Chloe leaned back into Scotty’s side, looking pleased, while Y/N subtly leaned into Rúben’s comforting presence. Daniel, from his seat nearby, shifted slightly, his gaze briefly flickering toward the couple before he turned his attention back to Blake, engaging him in conversation as if nothing had happened.

Suddenly, the familiar opening notes of "Shower" began to play over the yacht’s sound system. Chloe’s excited shriek pierced the air as she jumped up from her seat, clapping her hands together.

“Oh my God, Y/N! It’s your song!” Chloe exclaimed, her voice gleeful and slightly slurred.

She immediately felt her cheeks warm, a bashful smile tugging at her lips as she leaned further into Rúben for support. He chuckled softly, his arm tightening around her waist.

“You’re a global superstar, meu anjo,” he murmured with a teasing glint in his eye. “You can’t be shy about your own song.”

Y/N let out a small laugh, hiding her face against his shoulder for a moment. “I’m not shy… it’s just unexpected!”

Before she could protest further, Chloe grabbed her hand, pulling her away from his tall and toned body. “Nope! No hiding! We have to dance to this—come on!”

“Chloe!” The singer protested, half-laughing as her friend tugged her toward the DJ booth.

The crowd, already energized by the music, erupted into cheers as they recognized her. People parted to let Chloe and Y/N through, and several phones lit up to capture the moment.

Rúben stayed behind, leaning casually against the bar with a fond smile on his face, watching as his girlfriend let herself be swept up in the moment. Her initial shyness melted away as she reached the DJ booth, giving the crowd a small wave and laughing as Chloe twirled her dramatically and proceeded to hand her a microphone.

The atmosphere buzzed with energy, the infectious beat of the song bringing everyone to their feet. Even Daniel, who had been quietly nursing his own thoughts, found himself glancing toward the impromptu scene, his lips twitching upward at the sight of her joy—effortlessly radiant, as always.

61 notes · View notes