#raisinwrites

[jealousraisin]

Luke X Reader 💖

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Ch.1 - The party

You were sat on the deck in the backyard of a friend of a friends friend’s party, mind slightly buzzing from the alcohol and rejoicing in the calmer environment compared to inside; where the party was currently in full swing with no sign of slowing down for the night. You tilt your head up to look at the night sky, not too much to see in terms of stars when you’re in suburbia, but if you look hard enough you can make out orion’s belt.

You feel someone set themselves down next to you, the sound of a lighter rings in your ears.

“Is it okay if i smoke?” the person says

“huh? oh. yeah. Knock yourself out”

“Cool” the clicks of the lighter sound out again. You turn to look at the stranger, the light from inside the party dimly illuminating both of you from behind, the flame of the lighter momentarily showing his features in better light.

“so,” He takes a drag of his cigarette “what brings you out here and not in there?”

You fiddle with the rings on your fingers. “i got a bit overwhelmed in there, wanted a bit of a breather before i go back in there and find my friend,” You turn and point in the general direction of where you saw her last, currently deep in the dancing crowd “she’s my ride home”

“ah, have to say with the way this party is going, i don’t know if you’ll be heading back home any time soon. Your friend seems to be having quite the time in there”

“yeah, figures”

You both return to silence for a while, him finishing off his cigarette while you gently drum your fingers to the music that bleeds out to where you’re sitting. The break in conversation didn’t feel as awkward as it usually does with people, you partially blame that on the alcohol. But something about this stranger feels easygoing.

“So, you asked me now i ask you” You throw out “aside from a smoke break, you don’t look in a rush to get back in there either”

“you caught me” He gently chuckles, jokingly raising his hands up lazily. “if you must know, i too needed a break from all that…I mean I like to party as much as the next guy but sometimes people and sounds get to be too much”

You feel yourself sobering up a little as you nod in agreement with his statement. You want to keep your buzz going, so you start to stand up getting ready to offer to get a drink for him as well.

“Well uh…” you trail off, you realise you haven’t asked his name yet.

“Luke” He smiles up at you

“yes, Luke. I am going to grab another drink, would you like one?”

Luke leans back, resting on his palms. “Whatever you’re having i’ll have too”

You bravely stumble back into the party, mission in mind.

You return, drinks in hand. You pass one to Luke and sit back down in your previously claimed spot.

He mumbles out a thanks as you both enjoy your drinks.

About an hour passes, conversation easily flowing just like the drinks you are having, neither of you making any move to return to the party.

“Man, she’s totally not taking me home tonight is she?” you chuckle, a little pissed off your friend who earlier tonight promised ‘it will just be in and out! i promised my friend we would make an appearance’ How you believed her is beyond you, you think with a smile

“I don’t know about you but i’m ready get out of here.” Luke stretches as he makes a move to get up “I live nearby, walking distance, if you’d like to tag along i was thinking of ordering in some really greasy shit probably a good pizza” He offers his hand to help you up.

Your stomach growls at the mention of proper food, the chips and other finger food at the party doing the bare minimum to satiate the hunger, especially with you being outside and the snacks being deep inside the party. “How can i say no to such an offer? Sure i’ll go to your place stranger. Promise not to murder me?”

“We’re not really strangers now are we? you know my name, i know yours” he pulls you up with ease ‘does he work out?’ you think. “Plus the walk back to mine should give us enough time to become even less of strangers, no promises on the murder thing, gee you know i just loooovee doing that all the time” he throws in at the end jokingly. You let out a big laugh as you both make your way out of the party.

You message your friend,

‘Not kidnapped, left with a friend, I’ll see you tomorrow.’

[jealousraisin]

Ch.3 - Back Home

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“Who was that?” your friend interrogates the second you walk through the door.

“who was what?” you feign ignorance, partially as a joke and partially from mild embarrassment that you left your friend hanging in your own home to go hang out with a guy you just met at a party.

“don’t play dumb with me, what did you get up to? who was it? Who was the person who was able to convince you to go to a secondary location. You KNOW that’s how they get you” Vanessa huffs, and to think last night she barely had any concern for you at the party.

“well if you MUST know, I met a guy at the party last night while i was hanging out outside of the party and we-you know what ‘ness I don’t exactly have time to be interrogated right now I really do have to go and get ready for work. You should too or we’re going to be late. You know our manager is going to bite our heads off if we are” changing the subject to the currently more important matter at hand. Vanessa begrudgingly agrees with you, pocketing this conversation for later, maybe your lunch break.

Vanessa and you barely make it to work on time. The office where you both work isn’t necessarily far, but the bus times are inconvenient if you miss it; and miss it you almost did. Out of breath and a little frazzled from this morning’s series of events you take the elevator up to your floor, mentally flipping the switch to work mode. The elevator dings and any words that Vanessa wanted to say to you on that short ride up are lost to the wind as you both break off to your respective workstations. As you settle in your phone chimes, a notification lighting up the screen. You glance over at your phone as you’re fixing up a stack of papers left on your desk over the weekend.

‘Unsaved number: Have a good day at work ☆*’

Picking up your phone, you realise that in your hurry to get your day going you didn’t save Luke’s phone number as a contact yet. You settle down at your desk, while waiting for your computer to boot up you add him to your contacts.

‘Luke 🥞😋’

silly enough.

Shooting back a reply ‘I will do my best to do so 🤞, you have a good day too. Those pancakes are my saving grace this morning….still thinking about them’

The computer chimes its’ start up sound, calling you back to work. Opening up your various programs you begin your day.

Lunch break rolls around particularly quickly, you were getting a decent amount of work done today. You considered working through lunch but a voice in your head chimes in that ‘working through lunch earns you no medals, just hunger” and you nod in agreement to the thought.

“alright, you’re not getting out of this as easily as you did this morning, get up we are going to lunch and you are telling me everything” Vanessa practically materialises at your desk. You swivel your chair to face her, a look on your face that says ‘do i have to?’

“Yes. You do. For my friend to do such a thing and not want to tell me makes me want to know even more. I will not rest until you do” She nags as she’s pulling you up and out of your chair, leading you back towards the elevator.

The two of you head down to your favourite cafe that runs a spectacular lunch deal. Swiftly finding your usual seats, Vanessa is making some intense eye contact at you. She knows you can’t take much of her stare when she’s like this, she knows you’ll break and it’s only a matter of time. You fidget in your seat, avoiding eye contact at all costs. You chance a glance at her and it’s all over.

“fine.”

“Yes!” Ness pumps her fists in the air, exclaiming a little too loudly as she notices a couple of heads turning her way. She coughs “Proceed”

You tell her about how you were outside of the party, how a guy sat next to you and you both were out there for the same reason. The way you found it so incredibly easy to talk to him. The walk to his place, The food, the pool swim and the movie. You conveniently fail to mention that you fell asleep in the same bed, and the way he undressed in front of you with no shame after jumping in the pool, as far as Vanessa was currently concerned you were both fully clothed and slept in separate beds. She doesn’t need to know that just yet, you’re already embarrassed enough about the details you told her.

“You haven’t told me his name yet,” Her eyes widen “Don’t tell me you forgot to ask him? oh that is so you i-“

“NO! I did ask, AND i remembered it, Gee have some faith in me Ness” You interrupt her ramble, smiling as you take a sip of your drink.

“Well?”

“It’s Luke”

“Luke….that does sound familiar” Vanessa knows way too many people for her own good, she’s the person who always knows a guy. Figures she might know who Luke is just by first name alone you think.

Poking at your near finished food you glance up at your best friend and coworker. She loves nothing more than meet-cutes. Unfortunately for her, this is just a fast friendship in your eyes. Vanessa knows it’s more than that, and she is very willing to help you see that, but she’s going to play the long game. With someone like you, she can’t just throw you into the deep end of recognising subtle signs, advances and going through the gauntlets of going on a very obvious date scenario. She’s going to have to play this smart, let you feel like you’re taking the lead on this and not her. She loves to meddle in other peoples lives, when she sees a situation like this she just can’t help herself, she’s all over this.

Lunch finishes up quickly after that, the two of you having to get back to work sooner rather than later. You’re hyping yourself up for a meeting you have to present in, mentally going through the slides and steeling your nerves. The meeting goes by without a cinch and your work day comes to a close. Vanessa once again meets you by the elevator, she’s heading back home with you to pick up the stuff she left back at yours this morning.

Unlocking your door, Vanessa swiftly grabs her things and parts ways with you for the day.

“see you tomorrow! don’t stay up too late!” she waves as the elevator door closes, you wave back with a small giggle

“no promises!” The door shut.

Turning back into your apartment you take off your shoes and turn on the TV allowing for some background noise. You go through the motions of finishing up your day; you shower, do your skincare, put on some laundry and heat up the dinner you pre-prepared over the weekend.

You head back into your room to have some ‘phone in bed’ time when you notice the red hoodie staring at you as it sits on top of your bed. You haphazardly threw your clothes into the laundry basket minus that hoodie earlier that morning during your preparation flurry. You didn’t want to admit out loud that you wanted to wear it a little bit longer before having to return it.

Your phone pings, notifying you of another text.

‘Goodnight :3 talk to you tomorrow?’ It’s Luke

‘Talk to you tomorrow :)’ you quickly reply

‘sweet dreams’

[jealousraisin]

Ch.2 - His place

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Delivery of that pizza couldn’t have come any sooner, the walk to his place amplified your cravings. It didn’t help that he was listing off all the food and snacks they could be having, he was having fun mentally torturing you with images of obscenely over the top sundaes, hot pockets and milkshakes, describing them in a way that was borderline pornographic to your starved mind and stomach. One thing you learnt about him on the walk over is that he’s a bit of a little shit and he loves it.

“Nothing you can say right now can ruin the love affair i am about to have with this pizza” You proudly state as you grab the greasiest, largest slice your eyes land on. Luke leans on the kitchen counter, head leaning lazily on his palm, smiling.

“oh no of course your majesty, i, a mere peasant in your presence would dare not to” He jokes with ease. “Though i can offer, my world famous milkshake to compliment your current lover” Luke slides over a milkshake he prepared moments before the pizza arrived, you quickly finish up your slice and try it.

“holy shit” you speak after taking a sip.

Luke’s smile spreads into an all knowing shit eating grin “holy shit indeed, i did say they were world famous, i didn’t lie. I have made this for many people while i’m travelling and they all agree, it rocks”

He leads you out to his backyard, eager to enjoy the summer night air. You both each sit down on a pool chair. The night sky looks a bit clearer closer to the ocean, you relish in the sight. Comfortable silence blankets over you two for a minute.

“so you travel a lot?” you ask, making conversation.

“Oh yeah, i have a bit of a habit of just getting on a plane and going, my sister is sick to death of texting me and finding out i’m in some random country. Not like i’ll stop though, so long as i have my passport i’m good to go”

You find that mentality a little bit insane, but you have to respect the man for being so brave. You have to google ahead the menu of your local Mexican restaurant that you’ve been going to ever since you moved here, meanwhile this guy is going somewhere where he doesn’t even know the language aside from basic greetings.

“So is being spontaneous your thing? Or is it just the wanderlust?”

“oh, no i’m impulsive as shit” He chuckles

“Really?” you challenge

In the blink of an eye, he’s up. Luke gets a running start and jumps straight into the pool, making a big splash. He comes back up the surface pushing his hair back and out of his face.

“Really.” he grins up at you. You scoff in disbelief, a smile adorns your face.

Luke swims over to the pool ladder and hoists himself out of the water. Standing tall, the moonlight illuminates his towering figure, you get a chance to get a good look at him. His once dry outfit now soaking wet, his shirt is clinging to his body tightly. You can confirm your suspicions that he does indeed work out. So you were ogling the man, is that a crime? You quickly cough and look to the side as he goes to pull off his soaked shirt and starts to unbutton his pants.

“relax, i’m not totally naked see?” he coaxes, you focus your eyes back on him to find he is still in his boxer shorts.

“i knew that….”

Luke lets out a laugh, he’s grabbing your hand and pulling you up with the same practised ease as when he helped you up at the party.

“now I don’t know about you but i don’t think it’s fair i’m the only one who’s drenched right now

“huh? what do you mean? you were the one who-WHOAH” before you can finish your sentence you feel yourself falling down.

SPLASH

A hand still holding yours pulls you up to the surface. In your confused state you turn to look at the culprit of your current situation, you give him an incredulous look.

He shrugs at you with that smug smile.

You two swim around for a while, splashing each other and playing some games, the warm night making it easy to stay in the water. After a bit you get out, both of you having had your fill of swimming. As you are wringing out your now drenched shirt Luke, unbeknownst to you, is now looking at you as you did him.

“Come on, you can shower inside. i’ll give you some clothes to change into, and i’ll wash those” He points to your chlorine saturated outfit. You give him a grateful smile.

The warm water hitting your body was nothing short of a blessing, and you were absolutely going to use all his soaps, shampoos and creams he has in this bathroom. Alone, you start to think about the situation you’re in, it’s not like you to meet a random stranger at a party and then be fine with going to their place. Maybe it’s the fact your friend left you to handle that party alone or the drinks you had but you were feeling relaxed and a little brave tonight it seems. You go to shampoo your hair and think about what to tell your friend tomorrow about your disappearing act.

“Hey i’m just going to leave the clothes out here, i’ll be downstairs preparing some snacks” Luke’s muffled voice rings out on the other side of the bathroom door. As you’re changing it’s not missed on you that what you’ve been given to wear is a men’s size red hoodie. Despite him having a sister around your age.

You tread down the stairs, towelling at your hair. You find Luke preparing some small sectioned plates with various snacks and treats. He looks up when he hears you coming down.

“better after the shower? hope you knew it was fine to use whatever was in there” He says as he puts the finishing touches on his whipped cream strawberry tower.

“I did, thank you. You have an impressive collection of stuff up there, good skincare. I’m almost jealous”

“Hey, a guy has to take care of himself. Did you think this dewy complexion was the work of god?”

You look off to the side and mumble “no but that face of yours is…”

He rounds the kitchen island and hands you one of the two plates he’s prepared along with another drink.

“I gave you some of my clothes because my sister would kill me if i went into her room without asking again, last time i did that she almost killed me with her laser beam stare of hate” he laughs

“besides,” he pauses, giving you a quick once over “you look good in my clothes”

You find yourself in his room, settled in a beanbag watching the hangover movies, he insists are so worth watching. The snack plate he constructed was amazing, fulfilling your cravings. He’s lazily spread on his bed on the side nearest to where you’re seated, occasionally taking treats from your plate for himself. You had to agree the movies did have some funny moments, couldn’t say you were bored with the company either. At some point in the night you migrate to sit on the bed with him, directly offering your plate of snacks after seeing he has finished his and was constantly picking off of yours. Finally the drinks, walking, swimming and socialising catch up with you, you doze off halfway through the third movie.

Buzz….BUZZ. You jolt up, vaguely remembering what happened the night before. Your phone is going off, your alarm and a barrage of texts hit you all at once. Ignoring the device for a moment you look to your side and find the ‘stranger’ from last night peacefully asleep, only just now starting to stir. Taking a moment you first and foremost freak out you fell asleep in a strangers’ bed, but secondly you take in his features in the warm morning sunlight. What was once obscured by moonlight is now revealed in daylight. You return your attention to your phone, which has been put on charge by someone. Texts from your friend fill up your notification drawer.

‘You WHAT?’

‘Turn on your location right now’

‘who is it?? do i know them?’

‘who are you and what have you done with my friend? you? going off with someone you barely know?’

‘message me back nowwwwwww’

Your friend’s concern makes you chuckle lightly. You start to text back, reassuring that you are in fact, not dead.

“man, when did we fall asleep? i don’t think i caught the end of the third movie” Luke pouts as he sits up behind you.

You turn back and acknowledge him “good morning, sorry i fell asleep in your bed i was exhausted”

He shrugs lazily “s’fine i was exhausted too” He stretches his arms, his shirt riding up a little, you catch a glimpse of a belly piercing. Luke reaches over to his nightstand and puts on some glasses he wasn’t wearing last night, they suit him.

“How about some breakfast?”

Your stomach growls at the mention of food, you nod in embarrassment as he laughs.

Both of you head back downstairs, you set yourself down on the stool of the kitchen island. Luke with practised ease goes around the kitchen collecting the ingredients and tools for pancakes.

The sweet smell fills the house, you’re just about ready to eat your plate when a decent stack lands on it.

“enjoy” he winks.

You do just that. Early morning conversation filling the quiet room as you and him devour the pancakes.

You glance at your phone. SHIT IS THAT THAT THE TIME? You barely had any time to get ready and leave here to make it back to your apartment so that you could head off to work.

“oh my god i’m so sorry i have to rush actually! i have work soon oh my god i forgot!!” You start to scramble a little, forgetting that you don’t know where your clothes from last night are. Luke calmly steps into a door next to the kitchen that you now realise is the laundry room. He comes back out, your clothes in a neat, folded pile. You thank him with a grateful look, heading into the bathroom to change and tame your hair enough to be presentable to your friend who was staying the night at your apartment. Folding up the clothes you borrowed, you decide to throw the hoodie back on as you feel the morning chill bite at you in the outfit you wore to the party last night. Composing yourself in the mirror You come out, a little less frazzled than 5 minutes ago.

You find Luke is also already dressed and at the door, keys in hand.

“I’ll drop you home, the least I can do” he offers. A small smile is on your face as you nod a small thank you to the offer.

He leads you to the garage where his car is, a red Lancer Evo stares back at you. Now you were by no means a car person but even you could tell this thing had some love put into it as evidenced by the stickers, decals and body mods added to it.

“This is ‘girl’, She will be our trusty steed that will get you home safely” he pats the hood of the car, unlocking it and opening the door for you before getting in the car himself. You look around the spotless interior.

He starts the car “I don’t think this is the use-case for my motorbike haha i think tilting and shaking you around on this particular morning would be a recipe for disaster after all the drinks and food we had in the past 12 hours”

“i have to agree with you on that one” Taking the phone he was handing over, you put in your address to the maps app he had open.

“Alright let’s take you home” Luke pulls out of the garage

Your apartment comes into view after a short calm drive. You gather your things, making sure you didn’t forget something in this well cared for car. Luke is parallel parking up to the curb with practised ease as you take off your seatbelt and turn to thank him and make a move to get out of the car. Luke’s hand reaches out to yours before you can get out a ‘thank you’ for the ride.

“Before you go, can i get your number?” his phone is once again outstretched to you.

“oh! of course” you put in your number and call yourself, letting it ring. “there we go”

You step out and round the car, coming to the driver’s side window. Luke rolls down the window as you lean down to make eye contact.

“Thanks for last night, i appreciate it” You smile at him

“Of course, i’m glad i got to meet you” he leans his arm out of the window “Now i’d love to stay and chat but I think you have things to do don’t you?” Luke reminds you of your previous rush to get ready and go home, your eyes widen remembering that you did NOT have time to exchange pleasantries right now. Turning towards your apartment you throw back a hurried wave as you step into your building. In the elevator, you catch a glimpse of yourself in the mirror, you’re still wearing his hoodie.

Shit.

[jealousraisin]

OC Masterpost

Character Tags

RaisinOcs - OC info tag

Luke - Luke Art

Charlie - Charlie Art

Jonothan - Jono Art

Jarlie (Jonothan&Charlie). - Jarlie Art

Raisinwrites - Tag for my writing :)

Posts (infodumps)

Character Introductions

Luke Facts

Charlie Facts

Jonothan Facts

Jono & Charlie's Relationship

Jonothan's "Backstory"/Past

Ocs and Cars! (Little art wip/info post) D&D/Medieval AU Info post Jarlie D&D/Mediaval AU Drabble

Luke X Reader Masterpost

[jealousraisin]

Ch.9 - Drive

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You feel yourself being nudged, you try to ignore the interruption and get back to sleep.

“Come on wake up” The nudging remains persistent. Who annoys someone who’s so clearly sleeping?

Poke. Poke. Nudge. Poke.

“Mmm? What?” Your sleep riddled voice manages to ask.

“Come on let’s go somewhere” he’s poking you again.

“What time is it? Did you even sleep?”

“Sun’s going to be up in a couple of hours” Luke says as you turn over to face the window, the sun wasn’t up but you could see the night sky brightening up. You groan, running a hand across your face. You are not a morning person, and you are especially not a morning person after going to a party. You run through your options; you could ignore him and hope he gives up OR realise that this is Luke and he can be incredibly annoying and persistent when he wants to, which you’re certain is the case right now.

“Is it going to be worth it?” You ask, turning your head to look at him and make sure he means what he says.

“Definitely.”

There are empty drinks in pretty much every corner you turn and look; evidence of a party. Pizza boxes and various snack bags laying around, and the most obvious piece of evidence of all; the people who didn’t make it home and were currently asleep in a variety of different positions. You do your best not to trip over the people in the hall and stairs, Luke offering his hand for some stability and stealth; doing your best to not wake anyone.

Once in the car, Luke makes sure you’re all buckled in and heads off. Still unsure of where exactly the two of you are going, you decide to sit back and tune into the music, let the scenery go by. Suburbia turns into highways and then to trees and winding roads. Once you’re on a more secluded stretch of forest road you feel the car speed up past the speed limit, the force holding you down to your seat bit by bit. You silently freak out; your mind starts racing with thoughts.

‘Does he realise he’s speeding down this secluded road? That we might encounter other drivers? Or cops?’

‘Oh my god, a bend is coming up! We’re going to crash I was so stupid to get in the car with someone without asking where we’re going!’ You’re gripping the seat as the bend comes closer and closer, you squeeze your eyes almost totally shut; not wanting your last moments to be in blind panic. You feel the car start to turn at speed; but you realise, in control. As the car comes out of the turn, you slowly pry open your eyes and let go of the breath you were holding. Loosening your grip on the chair, you turn to look at Luke with an expression that can only be described as panicked disbelief at what he just did. Luke was wearing a slight smile, not the least concerned with his actions two seconds ago, eyes steadily trained on the road ahead of him. You realise he’s in complete control of the car, that stupid move was completely calculated and you weren’t in as much danger as you originally thought.

‘Still’ You think ‘He could have warned me.’

“You looked like your soul was gonna leave your body” He laughed.

HE LAUGHED? You thought you were going to die and he laughs. You ought to strangle him right here right now.

“Not funny.”

“Oh, come on, relax! I do this all the time!” Luke’s eyes were still laser-focused on the road.

“All the time? As in drive like a madman down secluded roads?”

“Yeah, I mean aside from the time I get on the track, and the rallies. I do this route a lot, know it like the back of my hand.”

You stay silent.

“Look, I wouldn’t do anything that I wasn’t certain wouldn’t harm you. In fact, I took the corner a lot slower than I usually do. I got this.”

You’re really not letting go of the fact that what he just did was incredibly irresponsible. Doing your best to calm your frazzled nerves and try to trust the expertise that he seems to have, you notice the car has slowed back down to just a bit over the limit; that you can live with.

It’s still dark when you arrive at your destination, Where exactly? You probably should have asked that before getting out of bed, because you realise; you’re at a hiking trail.

“Hiking? It’s dark out and we were literally partying just a few hours ago.”

He doesn’t respond as he’s parking the car. Only giving you a nod in affirmation.

“You know if you wanted to murder me you had that chance when we first met. I don’t understand why you have to take me out to some hiking trail in the dark for that.”

“Oh, sure I do. Easier to hide the body that way” He shoots back easily. “Besides, we’re not going to go on that trail until the sun starts to come out properly. Granted we got here earlier than I thought we would so we’re going to have to wait a bit…”

“Yeah, because somebody over here drives like they don’t care if they die.” You’re still a little bitter about it, clearly.

“You liked it”

You don’t dignify that with a response. So, what if you did? You’re not going to tell him that, the idiot would probably gloat about it and never drive like a normal person with you ever again.

The parking spot for this particular trail had a nice view, so it wasn’t too bad that you have to wait until some sunlight to head out. Despite the view, you're nervously fidgeting, not quite sure of what to say or do now that the car ride is over and the waiting begins.

Just like the night you first met; you hear the sound of a lighter. This time the smell of weed hits you in the confined space.

"Wanna smoke with me?" He takes a hit, offering the joint to you " it's fine if you don't, I'll do it outside"

"Um…no it's fine, I've smoked before...it's just" you're playing with your fingers nervously, embarrassed about what you’re about to admit "I'm not the best at doing it, I always end up coughing a lung out."

"I can help you with that."

"You can?"

Luke turns his body towards you properly, he inches himself closer to you, His voice dropping just above a whisper "May I?"

You nod, a little confused on what he's about to do. Nonetheless deciding to trust him.

"When I nod, inhale through your mouth" Luke takes another hit, this time holding it in as he grabs the back of your head, gently guiding your face closer to his, he nods and you breathe in just as he's releasing the smoke into your now receiving breath. His lips are ghosting above yours. They linger for just a second too long, his gaze fixed on your eyes; flitting down to your lips then back at you.

You exhale.

"See? You didn't cough," he's softly praising you, the hand behind your head is now gently cupping your face "you did so well." Where his hands were making contact, you could feel heat spreading. The intimacy of your position not lost on you. Your mind runs back to that night on the couch where you were in a similar ‘compromising’ position and you thank the heavens you’re in an isolated area at this very moment. You don’t think you could take an outsider seeing you like this.

You feel shy, unable to squirm away from the feeling in your chest within the confines of this car. Luke lets go of your face, leaning back in his seat, he takes a couple more hits letting time pass as the sun slowly begins to rise, the dappled light filtering between the leaves of the trees an indicator that the morning was slowly beginning.

“Ready to go?” He asks as he grabs a bag from the backseat. You nod and make a move to get out of the car. Your mind still reeling from what just happened.

‘Friends do this all the time, don’t read into it too much.’ You affirm mentally as the two of you head to the foot of the trail.

“You look awfully prepared” You note, gesturing to the backpack.

“Oh yeah, I hike a lot. Clears your head.”

“Ironic with what we just did…”

“Hehe you still feeling it? I have a tolerance so it’s fine. You alright?” He’s examining you, making sure you’re good to do this hike. “I didn’t really plan on that earlier part, so it’s fine if you wanna bail.”

“No, I’m good. So long as you don’t get us lost, I’m fine with it.” You’re a little fuzzy but nothing unmanageable. The lack of sleep feeling like it’s taking more of a toll than the weed. A hike seems like the healthiest thing you’ll do all week. Hell, all month even.

“Alright! Let’s go then!” Luke somehow has the energy to be enthusiastic at this hour, you’re certain he slept less than you last night. He leads the way, easily navigating the path.

You’re about halfway through the trail when you start to get a bit out of breath, the inclines were just slightly steeper than what you expected and your lungs were playing catch up. You don’t exactly go on hikes, at best going on short walks during your longer lunch breaks at work; the intensity of the activity was starting to hit you. Luke notices the shift and slows down a bit to be by your side, he’s rummaging in his bag.

“Here, have some.” Water.

You gratefully take it, the few sips practically reviving you. With a satisfied sigh you hand it back to him.

“Thank you”

“Can’t have you dying before the best part now can we?” He offhandedly says while putting the bottle back in the bag. He’s pointing out plants, bugs and critters on your way; telling you all these fun facts he’s learnt over the years. You wonder where he keeps all this information but you intently listen in, he manages to make it all sound so interesting. Continuing your walk, you come across a lookout point. The dense trees thinning out to carve out a picturesque spot to take a break, you spot a large rock that has been worn down over the years by the many hikers before you sitting on it; no doubt taking in the breathtaking view. You sit down, Luke joins you. Letting out a sigh of relief from taking a break you allow the wind to mess with your hair a bit, not bothering to fix it just yet.

“See? The best part!” The sun is finishing it’s rise just in time for the two of you to catch a view of the sprawling forest below; and in the distance, the waking city. You look towards him, the morning sunlight is hitting just right, highlighting his features in a way that was unfairly ethereal. You’re so stuck in thought that you don’t notice he’s also turned to look back at you, a soft smile on his face as he catches you staring. Eyes widening at being caught, you quickly return your sights onto the expansive view ahead; he follows your lead. Neither of you say anything as you bask in the view and sounds. As the sun fully rises, the two of you continue hiking. The second half of the walk being easier than the first, finding comfortable conversation as you pass by trees, plants and birds.

Finally at the end of the trail, you feel accomplished that you survived being woken up before sunrise and taken on a nature walk. You high-five him in celebration, his face is flushed red from the long walk, he’s sporting a big smile. Heading back to the car, you check your phone; no signal. Oh well, I’m sure its fine…Vanessa is probably still sleeping God knows where. As Luke shuts the door and silence settles in the cabin of the car, your stomach decides now is the time to rumble.

Luke quietly laughs, dialling up your embarrassment.

“Let’s get breakfast.”

Nothing sounded better than some fast food right now, your mind was on what you were going to eat throughout the entire ride back into the city. You barely register that Luke is bringing the car into a drive through until the smell of the kitchen hits you. He greets the person on the other side of the speaker with enthusiasm, ordering a variety of things before turning to you; implying it was your turn to add to the order. As the order is read back and the total was given, Luke pulls up to the next window to pay for and collect the food. Your excitement for food was rising as the two of you waited for your order, the smoking and long hike making your hunger grow by the second.

Luke passes you a couple of bags donning the restaurants recognisable branding. You situate them on your lap as he puts your drinks in the cup holders, then he’s back to driving. As Luke was navigating the morning traffic, you were feeding him some fries here and there with an occasional nugget; just enough to hold the two of you off from destroying the contents in the bag straight away, opting to enjoy the meal back home. “Fancy style” as he put it, which just meant putting the food on actual plates using actual cutlery.

Pulling into the driveway and making your way back in, you notice that everyone who was straggling behind earlier were now gone. The only evidence of a party now being the slight mess that was still around; clearly someone started cleaning up some time after the two of you left the house. Setting down the bags, you set yourself down on the kitchen stools; Luke was too busy gathering the plates and cutlery to notice people coming downstairs.

“Look who decided to reappear!”

“Oh, g’morning Charlie! We got breakfast for everyone!” Luke gestured to the bags of food as he turned around.

“Don’t think you can bribe me with that, where were you? We thought you were face down in a ditch somewhere.” You could see Charlie was leaning to get a look better look of the contents of the bag. Her act of being worried was slowly cracking. Both you and her knew he did disappearing acts all the time.

“Oh please! I know you were too busy with Jonothan last night and this morning to be too worried about your dearest older brother. Besides, it’s none of your business.” He’s childishly sticking his tongue out at her, which she mirrors back. Jonothan was behind Charlie, blushing at Luke’s remark. He didn’t want to get involved and still got dragged into it so early in the morning.

“Did you get me my pancakes….”

“What do you take me for? Of course I did”

“We will talk about this later.” She remarks, squinting at Luke with scrutiny as she sits next to you; plating the pancakes she starts to eat them before anyone else can take a bite of their own food. As you begin to have your breakfast your mind wanders back to Vanessa.

‘I wonder where she is? I thought she would still be here…’ as you were running through all the possibilities your phone decides now is the time to play catch up on receiving texts. You see that you have one from Vanessa from just earlier this morning.

‘I saw you leave with him….’

She did?

‘Where are you?’ You decide to change the subject.

‘Bit of a late reply don’t you think? Where did you go? What did you do?’ She’s ignoring your question.

‘We went for a hike, then we got breakfast for everyone back at Luke’s. We’re eating rn. Soooo where are you?’ You were concerned about he whereabouts, but you suppose the fact that she’s still texting you means she hasn’t been kidnapped.

‘Relax lol. I had to head back home, had stuff to do I couldn’t leave hanging.’

You don’t reply to that message just yet, mouth full of breakfast.

‘A HIKE? Really? Hehe did you guys do something?’

There’s the follow-up.

‘WHAT? No?????? What the hell are you on about.’

‘Oh, you did do something. It’s only a matter of time before I find out what exactly.’ It’s too early for this, you decide that’s the end of this conversation for now. Putting down your phone you tune back into the conversation happening in front of you.

“So, Sierra ended up wrangling everyone into a taxi back to their hotel a bit after you guys headed upstairs, Jay kept on going on about someone but no one could really make out what. He had A LOT to drink and smoke last night haha.” Charlie recalls some snippets of last night. You didn’t really catch a glimpse of her at the party, you didn’t realise she would be there.

“Yeah, sounds like them…I’ll make sure to call them and make sure it’s all good later.” Oddly responsible coming from Luke.

You’re finishing up your breakfast, absorbing the idle conversation when you make eye contact with Luke. The scene of you and him shot-gunning in his car floods back into your mind and you’re trying so hard not to, feeling the embarrassing thoughts and emotions crawling their way up and making a home in your chest; like how you kind of wanted to kiss him. It’s like he knows you’re thinking about it because a smug knowing smile is quickly shot your way, before being replaced with a neutral expression when Charlie focuses her attention back on him.

‘Get your head in the game. FRIENDS! We are FRIENDS! Don’t think about it too hard!’ You will yourself to rid yourself of any other thoughts. When it came time to help finish cleaning up the house, you had renewed vigour. Wiping down surfaces like they personally wronged you. Just don’t think about it, nothing good comes from thinking about it.

[jealousraisin]

Ch 8 - This Weekend

Previous Chapter - Next Chapter - Masterlist

“Come on we’re going to be late” You pester Vanessa who currently has all her makeup and hair supplies sprawled on your bathroom sink.

“Girl’s gotta take her time to look pretty” She idly replies, applying her lipstick with calm precision. “Okay, there. Done. How do I look?” Turning to face you, she strikes a pose.

“Hot, now can we go?” The ride-share you ordered is rounding the corner as you check the map.

She doesn’t reply to you, instead heads towards the door with an exaggerated swing of her hips, just to piss you off even more.

“You’re annoying you know that?” You say as you bite back a smile.

“Annoying, gorgeous and someone you can’t get rid of. You know you love me”

“Whatever” The smile breaks through as you speak.

The short ride to Luke’s place was spent with Vanessa fixing up the small little details you missed while getting ready, for whatever reason she’s quite insistent on it tonight. The car finally rounds the corner to Luke and Charlie’s place.

“This is where he lives? Are you kidding me” Vanessa is practically pressed up to the glass. The poor driver is going to have to clean that…

“It’s nice, isn’t it?”

“NICE? Are you kidding? Ocean-front, Modern? In California? This is more than nice” her architecture nerd slips out, that’s the Vanessa you know from college.

You thank the driver as the two of you get out. You hear the muffled sound of music inside, there are some people on the front lawn having drinks and conversation. Vanessa takes lead, not even bothering to ring the doorbell; like anyone would hear or answer it anyway. Inside, the familiar home is now filled with people, the smell of alcohol and weed. Vanessa takes your hand, not wanting to lose you to the crowd. She easily weaves through the crowd as she looks for the source of drinks or a familiar face; whichever comes first.

“Over here!” You hear off to the side. You scan the crowd and spot Nicole waving you over. You attempt to weave through the crowd just as ‘Ness did earlier but it was obvious she was more skilled at it than you. Squeezing past the last line of people, you are met with some familiar faces, and some new.

“Hey! Glad you could make it!” Nicole greets the two of you with a drink in each hand, she lifts them up in offering. Your eyes quickly glaze over the group of people Nicole is with, Cassie and Mel are both there; Luke isn’t. Vanessa quickly introduces herself and starts making the rounds with everyone. Nicole slides over to your side and quietly remarks “If you’re looking, he’s near the pool with the others”

“Wha-Who said I was looking? For who?”

“Oh come on don’t be coy here, you know who” She’s playfully nudging you with her elbow. She points in the general direction. “Go on!” Nicole cheers you on, you decide to take her word for it and head that way.

Dodging another group of people, you spot him before he spots you. He’s with some people you don’t know; six others. He seems to be in familiar conversation with a redhead guy. You’re debating whether or not to get in there, hesitation creeping up on you. As you’re mentally debating, Luke looks up and notices you, he waves you over; now you have to go over there. You wave back and enter the circle of people.

“You came!”

“What like I wasn’t supposed to? You made sure I would just this morning” You joke.

“Yeah, fair enough” He laughs.

“You gonna introduce us?” The redhead interrupts, smiling at you as he gives you a once-over.

“Oh right! Let me make the rounds” Luke introduces them one by one. You learn the mint haired girl is Sierra, the one with micro bangs and curls is Frenchy, the two quiet ones chatting amongst themselves are Honey and Kim, the guy in the beanie is Quint and the redhead Luke was just chatting with is Jay. You honestly don’t know if you’ll be able remember them all but still nod along. Jay stands next to you; he leans on your shoulder.

“Luke and I go way back, he stayed at my place when he did his exchange year in Australia back in what you guys call middle school, year 8 for us.”

You raise your eyebrows at that, he never mentioned living in Australia for a year.

“Yeah, we used to get up to some shit, I taught him everything I know.” Jay smiles fondly.

“Ha! If making bongs with a Gatorade bottle and hose was ever considered a sparkling education” Luke jokes back. “I recall teaching you some things as well, it wasn’t all take!”

“Ah but we can’t talk about that now can we!” That comment left you curious, but it seems neither of them wanted to divulge any details on that.

The rest of the group joined into the conversation bit by bit. You found yourself striking up easy conversation with Sierra, who was telling you all about how she manages the groups stream schedule and special events. She seems to like what she does. As the sun sets, Luke’s American friend group and Vanessa meld into conversation with the Australian Squadron. Quite a crowd.

“I’m going to go get another drink” you say to no one in particular.

“Oh! I’ll come with!” It’s Jay, he seems to be sticking around you. You don’t reply, instead start heading off in the direction of the coolers

“So…” He’s leaning against the wall as you rummage through the selection of drinks, trying to find something you like. “Did you come here with someone?”

“Hm? Oh yeah, my friend Vanessa over there.” you jerk your head in the direction of where you last saw her.

“Ah so not with someone?” He asks, noticing you’re still rummaging for a drink. “Here, let me mix you something instead. It going to be a million times better than whatever you’re going to find in there”

Giving up on your quest for anything you like in the cooler you get up and let him make you something. He walks over to the table with drinks and cups set up and gets to work expertly mixing various spirits together. The result is a gradient drink with a slice of fruit floating on the top.

“A pretty drink for a pretty person such as yourself” he says with a smile. You shy away at the comment, not expecting it in the slightest.

“Heh, Thanks?” You take a tentative sip, it’s good. “Mm! This is better than what I was going to choose.”

“You’re talking to the drink expert after all” Jay puffs up at the complement. “So…no partner here with you tonight or no partner at all?” He tries asking in a more direct manner, leaning an arm against the table. Feeling a little bit under the microscope you answer him nonetheless.

“No partner.” You keep your response short.

“I find that hard to believe! So, you’re saying I have a shot?”

“Haha uh...” You’re really shying away from the attention he’s giving you right now. “That’s-Umm” Struggling to find what to say next, gee the ground looks awfully interesting right now.

“Don’t get shy on me now” Jay teases as he swings an arm around your shoulder. “I’d be an idiot to not shoot my shot with someone like you, I mean look at you!”

Your introverted side is not used to this kind of attention, you’re trying your best to come up with a way to let him down gently “I mean, I’m flattered and all but- “

“They’re not interested Jay, back off.” You hear Lukes’s voice.

“Yeesh, Y’know you could have let them say it themselves” Jay says dejectedly, removing his arm from around your shoulders in faux surrender. He heads back in the direction of the group, shaking his head; you miss the teasing smile he shoots Luke as he passes by.

“Sorry about him, he’s a bit relentless sometimes”

“Haha it’s fine, just not used to that kind of attention -or rather- wasn’t expecting it!” You take another sip of the drink Jay made you to break up the feeling in your chest, you laugh awkwardly.

“Come on” Luke gently takes your hand, “We should head back there, you’ve been gone for a hot minute; Nicole was asking about you.”

“Oh, right…”

He notices your hesitation. “It’s fine. If it’ll make you feel better, I won’t leave your side for tonight. Jay’s harmless, but he can be a bit much.” You nod in agreement, letting him lead you back to where everyone was.

And he didn’t lie, Luke was stuck by your side like glue for the night. Where you went, he went. Vanessa and Nicole noticed, oh they absolutely noticed and were whispering to each other like there was no tomorrow. You were too busy letting out your social side, the drinks you had were loosening you up as you hoped they would. A while passes like this, you talked with Cassie about his tattoo work and everyone was very enthusiastically showing you the work he did on them, Luke seemed to be a frequent customer of his. As you were talking about your college days with a couple of people, a particular song started playing that had you widening your eyes in excitement ‘Man! Did this bring you back!’ You drum your fingers against your thigh to the beat.

“You look like you wanna dance” Luke teases.

“Pshh-what? No…”

Before this little back and forth can continue though, Vanessa is taking you towards the crowd of dancing people; moving you and her about just like she did in your college days. “COME ON! You know you wanted to!!” She was right, you did. The two of you jumped about and did the “routine” you worked out over the years to the song, which was really just some uncoordinated dance moves mushed together. But hey, who was keeping track of that? As the song ends you take a second to catch your breath, you really don’t move like that often and adulthood really takes a toll on your physical capability. As you’re about to tap out though, another song starts up that really brings you back.

“Man, this playlist is good!” You offhandedly remark. Vanessa was still up and at it, her energy knows no bounds and you see her being swept away by another dance partner for this song.

“Thanks, I made it.”

You think you just about gave yourself a heart attack. You turn around to find Luke right behind you.

“Care to have this dance, your majesty?” He extends his hand to you, as if he were addressing someone of the royal court. You snort at the bit.

“Why yes, I do” Putting your hand in his, you start to dance with him. The moonlight and scattered fairy lights illuminate the two of you, Luke’s face is wearing an unabashed smile and you can’t help but smile just as big as the two of you move however you feel. The song feels like it goes on forever and it’s just him and you in this moment, you wish it could have lasted longer. But as the song fades out, so do your dance moves. He’s looking straight at you, neither of you making a move to get off the dancefloor just yet. He looks like he has something to say but as quickly he opens his mouth to say anything he’s closing it just as fast.

“What?” you smile, a little out of breath.

“Nothing” He grins right back at you, leading you away from the dancing crowd.

“Hey! If it isn’t the dancer duo!” Nicole welcomes the two of you back to the group, “You made it back just in time, we were about to light the bonfire on the beach!”

“Sweet! Would have sucked if we missed out on that” Luke strikes you as the kind of guy to keep a fire going at a party, so it’s no surprise he’s excited about this. Nicole takes your hand as she leads you through the back fence gate to the beach of the property. Sitting down on one of the available seats you watch as Luke, Jay and Quint get busy lighting the fire. Nicole and her girlfriend sit down next to you, the three of you watch as the guys work at the flames.

“What do you think of him?” Nicole points to Luke with a nod of her head.

“Think of him? He’s a good friend? What, am I not meant to?” Frankly, you’re a little confused about her question.

“Oh my god, Vanessa was right…” Nicole put her head in her hands, her girlfriend Teresa was patting her back in sympathy.

“Luke’s a good guy. He’s helped us through some tough times.” Teresa is looking towards Luke as she speaks, “Give him a chance, he may not be the most direct guy, but he means well.”

Yeah, that really clears it up. Aren’t you already giving him a chance? You guys are already friends?

“What Teresa means is- “

“Okay you two. Move over, I wanna sit here.” Luke cuts Nicole off before she can finish. She gives him a look that says she really wants to ignore his interruption and finish her sentence but she relents. You look at Luke in your peripheral vision as he sits down, he almost looks embarrassed. Huh.

“My friends mean well; They also love to stick their noses in my business” He’s sending a ‘not quite mad’ glare their way as Nicole and Teresa sit a couple of seats down from the two of you. Teresa sticks her tongue out at him in childish retaliation.

“I know what that’s like, I have one of those of my own.” You relate.

You spend the rest of the night in front of the bonfire, talking with everyone about a variety of topics. The ocean air bites at you, the outfit you chose being on the fresher side since it’s summer, the bonfire does little to shield you from the cold gusts that come. You feel something wrap themselves around your shoulders, you notice Luke has given you his jacket.

“S’cold, don’t get sick…”

You feel the leather as you pull it closer to your body, feeling relief from the wind. You lean on his shoulder.

“Thanks”

You hear him mutter something, but with the conversation flittering about and the sound of the waves crashing down you don’t quite hear him. You tune into other’s conversations, only really half listening as all the drinks you had settle into you manifesting as exhaustion. You fight the feeling, knowing that you’re still very much in a social situation, but the warmth of the jacket and the fire along with the sounds of the ocean are a recipe for sleep. Luke notices this and nudges you.

“Hey, come on let’s not fall asleep here.”

“Hm?”

Luke gets up and offers his hand to you. You gladly take it as he pulls you up onto your feet. He doesn’t say a word as he leads you away from the bonfire, through his backyard and back inside the house, where he guides you up the stairs to his bedroom. There aren’t too many people left at this time of the night, which you’re grateful for since you doubt you could navigate a crowd in this state. Luke leads you into his room, shutting the door behind him.

“Here” He’s throwing something your way, with your drunk reflexes you manage to half-catch it last second, with your face. Pulling the object off of your face you realise it’s a shirt. You stare at it, a little confused.

“I doubt you’d want to fall asleep in that outfit, use my bathroom. Get changed.” You heed his instruction and hobble over into the room. Getting out of your current outfit was a bit of a challenge but you seem to manage it efficiently enough. Stepping out donning a much more comfortable outfit you find that Luke has also changed into sleepwear. Noticing you’ve made it out, he’s lifting the blanket on his bed and slipping in, you follow his actions.

“G’night” You mumble out, rest coming easily in this very moment. You feel arms around you just as you slip into sleep.

“Goodnight”

[jealousraisin]

Luke X Reader Masterlist

Where you meet a stranger at a party and you find he very easily fits into your life.

Chapter 1 - The Party

Chapter 2 - His Place

Chapter 3 - Back Home

Chapter 4 - Texting and Little Treats

Chapter 5 - Chance Meetings

Chapter 6 - Insomnia

Chapter 7 - Drinks

Chapter 8 - This Weekend

Chapter 9 - Drive

Chapter 10 - The Summer Festival

Chapter 11 - What do I do?

Chapter 12 - Do I?

WIP NOTES: I may add or take chapters out as I go but I do want to have a vague idea of how many chapters i have planned out so far :thumbs up: I have never in my life written X reader, a multi-chapter fic, nor proper fanfiction ever so FORGIVE my pacing, this was truly born from me being insane about my OCs. I can cringe about this later, for now I shall be free.

[jealousraisin]

Ch.7 - Drinks

Previous Chapter - Next Chapter - Masterlist

“So let me get this straight” Vanessa is gripping the edge of the breakroom table so hard you fear she may take a chunk out of it. “Not only did you meet JONATHAN, like THE Jonathan. You went shopping with him and his partner who also happens to be your ‘friends’ little sister? I go out of town for a week and come back to this.”

You squirm in your seat; you haven’t even told her about last weekend yet.

“Hi guys!” A voice calls out from the entrance behind you, a welcome intrusion. With a sigh of relief you turn around to wave to the blonde.

“Hey Mati! It’s been a while!! The IT department has been keeping you busy, haven’t they?”

“You have no idea; I’m helping on projects I haven’t technically been assigned to but my manager wants me to do anyways” Mati sighs as they slump into one of the available chairs in the small break-room.

Vanessa poked at her salad as you idly chit chatted with your fellow coworker. She knows this is your way of avoiding saying the next part of your catch-up conversation. She’s not letting you go that easily.

“Out with it, I know there’s more to it.”

Busted.

“Ooh what are we talking about?” Mati curiously leans in as they unwrap their homemade lunch, probably made by their partner.

“Someone,” Vanessa points at you with an accusatory glare “Has been having some interesting turn of events while I have been out of town. She met with a famous person and now I KNOW there’s something else”

“I was going to get to that part eventually” you mumble, it’s true you tell Vanessa everything as does she. “Well…Uh…I couldn’t sleep, you were busy with your stuff. Luke couldn’t sleep either it turns out. And he ended up coming over at about 2:40 in the morning.”

Vanessa’s eyes widen slightly. She is getting used to hearing about this guy coming over often; But to hear that he’s coming over so late in the night? She’s a bit apprehensive. “Continue…” She goads.

“We chat a bit on the couch, but I end up suggesting that we could try to sleep together, in the same bed! not SLEEP together,” You feel the need to clarify that lest your friends and coworkers have the same misunderstanding you had the other night “and we end up talking all night like you and I do ‘Ness! And it worked; we fell asleep!”

“You gave me a mini heart attack there I thought you finally jumped him or he jumped you” Vanessa says through a mouthful of her lunch.

You start blushing furiously at her suggestion that you did that and were just very proudly telling her about your escapades at your workplace’s lunch room. “NO! What? We’re just friends? Don’t be silly ‘Ness”

“Mhmm” She hums condescendingly.

“Anyways” You continue “We end up making a deal that we can let each other know when we can’t sleep and we can help”

“Oh, that’s funny that you have a friend named Luke too!” Mati interjects “It’s such a common name, isn’t it?”

“Yeah, I suppose it is” “Sure could be” You and Vanessa agree in unison.

“There’s more isn’t there…” Vanessa’s intuition is rarely wrong.

“We kind of maybe, sorta, possibly ended up cuddling” you say quietly “Y’know, like friends do…nothing else”

…

“WHAT!?” ‘Nessa stands up from her chair in disbelief, she quickly regains composure and sits back down. You’re going to give her a heart attack from your obliviousness. “And nothing else happened? You invite a man into your home late at night, bring him to your bed and NOTHING happened?”

“Like I said, nothing happened. As friends do”

Vanessa has her head in her hands as Mati finishes off their lunch. “Oops sorry guys I have to rush back! Great hearing about your weekend!” They wave off as they scurry back to the IT department. You wish them good luck with everything over there, you know how busy it gets on that side of the building.

“So, anyway could I get an autograph from Jonothan?” Vanessa pesters you as the two of you are back at your workstations.

“Haha I’ll see what I can do" you muse, logging into your computer so you can return to the work you left for after lunch.

Getting home at around 5 was something of a miracle; work has been keeping you late for the past month or so due to some big project pretty much every department has to have hands on deck for. Putting down your belongings and removing the most constricting and uncomfortable parts of your office attire is the first thing you do as you lazily shut your apartment door. Sending Vanessa and Luke separate texts that you got home safe, the next item on your after work routine list is to grab a sweet treat from the kitchen and slump down on your little table out on your balcony and drink in the sunset. The sounds of the city fill your ears as you hear people and vehicles all moving along like ants, trying to get to wherever they’re going this evening. As much as you’d like to, you can’t spend too much time idling around this afternoon since you promised Vanessa you'd meet her for drinks later; with a tired sigh you get off your ass and get ready to head back out.

“Man it feels like ages since the last time we properly went out” ‘Ness laments as you get in the taxi parked in front of your apartment.

“I know, work has been so hectic I forgot we ever had free time before”

“I’m just glad I was able to get you out of the house” She laughs, she pokes your ribs.

“Yeah yeah” You nudge her playfully “You are totally paying for the first round, call it a celebration of me getting out of the house”

The taxi comes to a stop near the bar. Making sure the two of you have all your things, you get out of the car; not before tipping the driver of course. Vanessa hooks her arm with yours as you walk to the entrance of the bar, ready to have a bit of fun opposed to work related stress for a change.

Vanessa does the honour of ordering your first round of drinks, insisting they be shots. She says something about ‘Not wanting to waste our time on drinks that are practically water’; to that you mentally reply that it’s barely 8pm. The two of you enjoy a drink of your choice that is “practically water” after her round of shots, you really didn’t want to be off your face so early on in the night. Enjoying conversation and laughter you spend a while sipping on your drink as Vanessa gains a 2 drink advantage, admittedly Vanessa is much less of a lightweight than you are so the extra drinks don’t do too much to her.

You feel someone tap your shoulder, you turn around and are met with a familiar face.

“Hello stranger” Luke’s smiling at you.

“Wuh-Luke! Hi!” You give him a quick hug hello, “What are you doing here?”

“Same as you I suppose, getting some drinks with a couple of my friends”

An ‘AHEM’ rings in your ears, reminding you that you’re accompanied tonight.

“Oh! Luke, meet Vanessa! Vanessa, Luke” You introduce the pair, you know the two of them are recalling whatever you have said about the other throughout the thousands of times you have mentioned them in their absence.

“So this is the famed Luke huh? Glad to finally put a face to the name” Vanessa extends her hand, Luke shakes it.

“Likewise, this is the Vanessa I’ve heard so much about! Say, would you two like to join my friends and I tonight? We’re right over there” Luke points to a booth with some people loudly talking with each other, you can hear laughter already. Vanessa being the ever-social butterfly takes him up on the offer without hesitation before you can even ask her if she’s up for it. Luke claps his hands together with a smile.

“Then it’s settled! Come with me guys.” He walks back towards his friends, the two of you in tow.

“Luke! Already picking up people? We just got here man, can it wait until we’ve at least had something to drink?” A girl with long silver hair ‘berates’ him as she notices you and Vanessa.

“Oh come on Nicole, you said you wanted to meet them. Well here they are!” Luke gestures his arms to you; you shyly wave at the eyes that set on you.

“Wait as in the one that you can’t stop ta-“ Luke quickly interjects Nicole, as if she was going to reveal something compromising about him.

“HA! Look you got to meet them before everyone else, let’s not embarrass me so early on! Please ‘Cole?” He says as he slots himself next to her. Luke grabs you to sit down next to him as Vanessa sits across from you, next to a guy with wavy blonde hair and a freckled girl. Before the silence can get too awkward a server brings a tray of drinks. “Sorry to bother you but can we get 2 extra drinks for the table?” Luke adjusts the order to fit you and Vanessa into their night of drinking. The server nods and returns to the bar.

“Well, if that’s the case then. Let me introduce everyone” Nicole gestures around the table “I’m Nicole, this guy over here is Cassie and next to him is Melanie, but we all call her Mel.” Luke’s friends all wave when mentioned.

You introduce yourself, always a bit awkward around strangers at first. Vanessa gives you a reassuring nudge under the table. Vanessa follows after you, easily talking to people she barely knows is one of her many admirable talents.

“Ah and here I thought we would all have to wait until the party to meet you” Mel says as she takes a sip from her drink.

“Uh what party?” You’re confused.

Nicole turns to face Luke, an incredulous look on her face. “It’s this weekend and you haven’t told them yet? You kept on telling us you were going to!”

“I was gonna call and ask them tonight! Swear...” Luke pathetically replies.

“They’re here now, go on. Ask!” Nicole nudges him.

“Some friends from overseas are coming here this week, I’m holding a party with them at my place this weekend…I was wondering if you wanted to come?”

“Of course we’re going!” Vanessa accepts the invitation for the two of you, being one to never pass up an opportunity to go to a party. Despite Vanessas response to the invitation, Luke keeps his eyes trained on you; waiting for you to reply.

“Sure! Sounds like fun!” You agree.

The drinks flow freely at this table you notice. With every round, you feel confidence come to you as the volume of the now full bar dulls down to a comfortable muffle and your social side comes out with the company you keep; gone is the initial awkwardness of the night. Joking with everyone at the table as if you were all old friends, Luke puffs up with pride at how easily you mesh in with his closest friends; he puts his hand over yours underneath the table and is pressing his leg close to yours. Nicole and Vanessa notice Luke’s demeanour and give each other a knowing look, seems those two share similar personalities and are getting along very well.

“And then this guy! You know what he does? He somehow gets himself stuck in a chair!” Cassie is recalling something stupid from his and Luke’s youth with a fond smile and a laugh. “We had to call the fire brigade to get him out, I don’t even speak Spanish so it was hard enough to get help!” He says between tears.

“We should have left him there to figure it out and gone back to the hotel” Mel guffaws out.

You’re laughing so hard, you barely notice Luke leaning on you until he speaks up defending himself. “I thought I was going to have to live stuck in that chair forever! I can’t believe you would even think of leaving me in there”

“But we didn’t” Cassie counters. Conversation drifts elsewhere as you finish one of your many drinks.

As the night draws to an end, you’re outside hailing a taxi to get Vanessa and you back home. As you finally manage to get one you call out to Vanessa, who was hanging back talking to Luke about something.

“What was that about?” You curiously ask.

“Nothin’ much” Vanessa stumbles out. You shake your head in false disappointment at her lack of detail, she’s up to something; that much you know. As you get settled in the taxi Luke calls out to you.

“See you this weekend?”

“See you this weekend.” You mirror, mustering up a tipsy thumbs up.

[jealousraisin]

Ch.6 - Insomnia

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Tonight was just one of those nights, sleep was not coming. Luke has been tossing and turning for a while now, he doesn’t have a clock in his room so that he doesn’t stare at it all night wishing and hoping he was asleep at that very moment. It’s late, Luke knows that. He refuses to turn around and look at the time on his phone. He knows glancing over is only going to make the anxious, heavy feeling in his chest grow. He’s glancing up at the bedroom ceiling, he is sure he would have stared holes into the ceiling by now with all the sleepless nights he’s spent in his room. Trying to calm his mind, trying to think of anything to get his mind off of the anxious feeling and the gnawing thought that he should be soundly asleep by now…

‘What do I have to do tomorrow? list off the tasks in order. Reorganise them. Run through scenarios.’

‘Visualise a place where I am calm, a place where I am at peace just by being there’

No. Nothing is working; sometimes boring himself with trivial thoughts affords him at least a little bit of shut eye in this scenario.

Not tonight it seems.

Luke sits up in his bed, he admits defeat and looks at the time on his phone.

‘2:17 AM’ The numbers stare back at him; he sighs as he feels that desperation settle in his stomach. He’s been trying to sleep since 9:30 PM.

“I just want to be asleep” He anxiously runs his hands across his face and hair.

As he says that, his phone quietly pings with a notification. He glances at his phone; he’s obviously not sleeping tonight so he might as well look.

‘You awake?’

It’s you.

‘I am…. what are you doing still awake? Work have you doing another all-nighter?’

‘Nope. Can’t sleep :/‘

Luke feels a little reassured that at least he isn’t alone in this situation, though he’s certain the reasons for why either of you can’t sleep are different, you are still in the same boat.

‘Me neither’ He turns on the lamp beside his bed ‘tried all my usual tricks, looks like tonight isn’t a night that I sleep’

‘Wish I was asleep right now’ You don’t know why you’re messaging him, you kind of did it on autopilot since you’re always texting him. As you sent that first message you felt a little bad, worried you might have woken him up or that he was going to see that message whenever he woke up and it would have been awkward to have a missed ‘you up?’ text from a friend sitting in his notifications.

Your phone starts buzzing in your hand, you jump a little from the sudden noise in your quiet apartment. These past few weeks you learnt he likes to call rather than text whenever the two of you are able to. You’re still getting used to calling instead of texting, since you text all of your friends and only really call them to get them to answer the door or get an urgent message through.

“Hello?” your voice comes out a little awkward, having not really used your voice since you got home from work.

“hey” He’s speaking softly, Charlie must be home and asleep in her room. “Is it okay if we talk this way?” His voice sounds deeper, tired and soft. You shake away any straying thoughts from your head, your friend is calling because they can’t sleep, get your head in the game.

“Uh, yeah” you roll over to the side where your bedroom window is, looking outside at the night sky.

You hear shuffling on the other side, a beat of silence passes.

“This might sound a little silly…but could we hang out right now? I kind of don’t want to be alone tonight” He asks. You can hear the slight hesitation in his voice, how he said that last part a lot quieter than the first.

You nod, before realising he can’t see you. “Come over” your quiet voice rings through Luke’s speaker. You swear you can hear a faint sigh of relief at your response.

“I’ll be there soon”

The dial tone beeps.

You’re in the kitchen, having a late-night hot drink when the buzzer rings. You pad over to the small screen affixed your wall, seeing Luke’s familiar figure.

You buzz him in, shortly after there is a soft knock on your door.

“hey” you greet as you open the door to let him enter your apartment.

“hey” he mirrors back.

You get a good look at him; his figure is hunched over and showing obvious signs of exhaustion and anxiety. It’s strange to see the guy who is always smiling throwing joke after joke like this. You shut the door and lead the two of you to settle down on your couch.

“You look like shit” you joke.

He lets out a small laugh “Thanks, you too” he’s looking up at your barely tamed hair and mismatched choice of pyjamas. You both share a chuckle; Luke relaxes a bit.

“So neither of us could sleep tonight huh?”

“noPe” Luke pops the ‘P’ as he leans his head back on your couch, getting comfortable.

“I tried all of my usual tricks, hell, I even counted sheep” you recall.

“Did you get far?”

“I got up to about 260 sheep before I gave up, I don’t think anyone needs that many anyway”

“That sounds like way too many”

You really want to ask him why he can’t sleep but glancing over at him you can tell he definitely wants to think about anything but whatever is on his mind right now. You brush it aside for another time, if ever. You return to the topic at hand; the lack of sleep blighting the two of you right now. You’re twiddling with your fingers as a possible solution comes to mind, you hesitate a little bit before steeling yourself to suggest your idea.

“What if we slept together?”

Luke’s head turns to look at you so fast you fear it may snap.

Oh wait.

You realise the mistake in your wording.

“NO WAIT THAT CAME OUT WRONG!” You’re blocking the stupid mischievous look slowly spreading on his face with your hands as you hear him start to spew out teasing words, there’s the Luke you know again.

“You haven’t even wined and dined me yet”

You try to cover his mouth so he’ll shut up. He easily removes your hand without any difficulty

“Man, I knew I was irresistible, but to try to bed me when I’m in such a state? Wooowww, you dog”

You’re embarrassed, you should have known he would have taken your words the wrong way as they were coming out of your mouth. ‘Ground swallow me up now, I’m ready to go’ is all you can think as you turn red.

“You know that’s not what I meant!” as you say that you realise that this “misunderstanding” prompted a bit of a wrestling situation as Luke’s teasing and your need to hide and make him shut up at the same time put the two of you in a bit of a position. A position that if anyone were to walk in, they would hurriedly muster up a ‘sorry, you’re busy’ and back out of the room. Thank goodness you don’t have roommates.

Luke relents his teasing; feeling he has done enough. “Okay okay,” He repositions himself back on his side of the couch, letting you get back up as well, “What did you mean then?”

“What if we just, went to bed together. Talked there? No pressure to actually fall asleep. You know, sleepover style where you talk all night but somehow along the way you seemingly pass out?”

Luke never thought of that as a way to combat his sleeplessness, but you had a point. He felt a bit confident with your idea, having someone by his side while trying to sleep might curb his overthinking.

“Ya know what, that’s not a bad idea,” He’s stroking his chin as if he had a long beard “Let’s do it”

As you’re leading him over to your room your mind thinks over to your friend Vanessa, who you’re certain would be having a field day if she heard of what was currently happening. You can hear her voice now ‘YOU? Leading a MAN?? To your room late at night??? I’m not ready to be a cool aunt yet’ you smile and shake the thought out of your head. Vanessa can find out later. Currently Luke and you were insomnia warriors, ready to fight sleeplessness and win.

You didn’t fix your bed when you got up earlier so slipping back in was as easy as ever. You pat the empty side of the bed inviting him to join you, Luke hesitates for a split second before removing his hoodie; leaving him in his beloved band t-shirt he uses for sleep. He gets into the opposite side of the bed and mirrors your action of facing each other to talk.

Just like a sleepover, silly late-night conversations flow easily. Luke’s earlier demeanour of tension and nerves shifting to a lighter one as the two of you talk about nothing and everything all at once. You’re both laying on your backs, finding talking up to the darkness of the night freeing; like you can say whatever comes to mind. As Luke is recounting his various spontaneous adventures you feel the familiar and very welcomed sensation of sleep taking over.

“Hey"

"Mm?" You hum, sleep just about taking you.

"Let's make a deal"

You keep your eyes shut, silence prompting him to continue

"Whenever you can't sleep, you can always pester me. Y’know; Call me, beep me, if you wanna reach me"

You turn around to face him

"Was that a Kim possible reference…"

"No..." You can hear the smile in his voice.

"You dork. It's a deal," Before dozing off you add "and you have to do the same."

Silence envelops the two of you, finally able to sleep.

Sometime throughout the night the two of you end up in a tangle of limbs. As you wake up between dreams you feel the weight of an arm keeping your back glued to his slowly rising and falling chest, as you try to readjust you feel said arm hold you tighter. Seems his subconscious doesn’t want to let you go; What’s that about? Before going back to sleep you think about the other side of Luke, the little glimpse you got tonight sparking your curiosity and need to understand him.

The next morning Luke wakes up feeling unusually rested considering how late he ended up finally sleeping. He recalls falling asleep by your side but as he turns to your side he notices that it’s empty. He gets up, eyes still heavy from sleep as he makes his way to your living room. He finds you in the kitchen plating up an incredibly delicious breakfast. You seem to notice him at the last second, a smile spreads on your face as you greet him good morning.

“Welcome to the land of the living sleeping beauty!” You joke as you put down the final plate of breakfast options on the table. “I didn’t know what you wanted for breakfast but I didn’t want to wake you up to ask so I just made a bit of everything.”

Luke settles into the dining table chair, a dopey smile and messy bedhead accented by the sunlight that filtered in through the balcony sliding door. The two of you enjoy your varied breakfast in light conversation.

What a way to start off your weekend.

[jealousraisin]

Ch.5 - Chance Meetings

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These days it seems you have company at your place more often than not. Vanessa was always a frequent flier in your home; staying multiple nights was common place for her. Now though, Luke has managed to be added to that roster of people who always seem to be at your place. The two of them have yet to officially cross paths, Vanessa is constantly asking about ‘your new friend’ and Luke always hears about the hi-jinks the two of you get up to in and out of work.

Today was one of those rare days you have your apartment to yourself, it feels a little strange. You woke up decently early for your standards, treading out to the living room only after having some phone in bed time. Taking a look around your apartment you realise a bit of a clean is in order, so you put on your go to playlist and get to work.

It looked like it was going to take longer but after all that sweating, running around and off-key singing, you check your phone to see that it’s only 11 A.M. Moving some stray hairs out of your slightly sweaty face, you decide it was a good idea to treat yourself with some form of sweet treat from your favourite local café and some window shopping. You take a quick shower and put an effort into dressing up a little, accessorising and putting a bit of flair to your look. Grabbing your tote-bag, you’re out the door and on your way.

The door to the café rings as you push it open, the sounds and smells you have grown to love over the years flooding your senses. Making a beeline to the counter, the barista recognises you and greets you with a smile.  You smile back, rattling off your usual order and adding a pastry for good measure. There was no need to tell them your name, you’ve spent countless hours here ever since your last year in college; finishing assessments and homework while being a little bit too caffeinated sometimes.

You take a seat, now able to have a proper look around, you see that it’s quite busy today; an electric buzz in the air. It wasn’t unusual for things to be busy around here, the café is on a main street and has received many a dazzling review by a handful of food bloggers. A part of you sometimes wishes that this café stayed as popular as it was when you first started coming here, lowkey and underrated; but another part of you swells with pride knowing that you were here before it was cool, that you were here first. A bit of a silly thought you think. Before you can get too deep into your thoughts; you hear your name being called out. Making your way over to the counter, you grab your order but not before generously tipping your barista.

You were about to make your way over to the door and be on your way when you feel a tap on your shoulder. Turning around you’re met face to face with a girl, she looks slightly nervous.

“Yes?” you ask, hopefully giving her the courage to say what she seemed to want to ask.

“Um…you wouldn’t happen to know a Luke Miller, would you?” She asks, her eyes say she is second guessing every word as it was coming out of her mouth.

You smile, a little confused on her question, but decide to answer truthfully anyways. “Yes, I do? Why?”

Her eyes widen, relaxing a bit when hearing your answer, “That probably sounded so so creepy to hear from a stranger just now oh my god sorry! It’s just I heard your name, and like, you looked like someone my brother was telling me about, actually he’s been talking about non-stop – wait TMI for the moment….uhh,” She rambles, she steadies herself by breathing out “I’m Charlie, Luke’s sister.” Charlie extends her hand out to you.

Now it’s your turn to be surprised, a smile spreading out on your face as you take her hand. “Charlie! I’ve heard so much about you it’s nice to put a face to the name and stories”

“Good things I hope?” she giggles.

“About as good as a sibling can get when talking about their little sister” you chuckle.

“Oh my gosh I totally wasn’t thinking!! You were literally about to walk out when I interrupted you! Did you like, have some place to go? Did I keep you?” Charlie steps back a little, which admittedly is hard to do with the amount of people in the café today.

You’re quickly shaking your head in disagreement “Oh no you’re fine! Actually, today is a bit of a free day for me. I was just going to go and do some window shopping really,”

“If that’s the case, how about you join me and my boyfriend today? We were going to do the same thing! Great minds think alike”

You find it’s hard to not be absorbed into her enthusiasm. You agree to join them. Next thing you know, you’re being led by the hand to a table near the back corner of the café by Charlie. As you awkwardly stand at the table with Charlie beaming down at her partner, you’re struck with a feeling that you’ve seen this guy before but can’t quite place it. That train of thought gets interrupted by Charlie introducing you to him.

“Jono! This is that person Luke keeps talking about, can you believe it?? That we just happened to be here at the same time??” She beams at him as she brings the two of you to sit down. ‘Jono’ is staring at his phone, rapidly typing something.

“I’ve heard of YOU talking about how he goes on about them. I barely listen to a word that comes out of that guy’s mouth” He coldly says. Such a contrast to Charlie’s enthusiasm…

“Don’t mind him, he’s not good with new people. I promise he’s not mad at you, like, at all. He’s also a bit of a hater towards Luke.” She reaffirms, laughing about that last fact.

Jonothan looks up from his phone, putting it down on the table. “You know, if you have any dirt on him. I’m willing to pay”

“Jonothan!” Charlie scolds.

You’re a little taken aback, but realise he is mostly joking so you laugh and tell him you would ‘most definitely’ pass on all the gossip to him. Charlie is a little flustered that this is how your first interaction with her and him is going. The three of you enjoy your respective orders at the table before heading out of the café.

Charlie and you are getting along fantastically, from the way Luke was describing her she truly is a ‘girly girl’. She radiates femininity in concentrations you didn’t know were possible, if this were high school you would have been way too intimidated to even look her way. Glad that those days are in the past; you find her energy and conversation easy to enjoy and reciprocate.

“So, anything in particular you wanted to look at?”

You think a bit before shrugging “I was thinking of landing myself a new accessory today but I’m honestly not sure” speaking honestly

“Hmm, if that’s the case why don’t we check out some stores nearby and once we’re properly in the shopping mood we can find you the perfect accessory?” Charlie suggests thoughtfully. She truly is an experienced shopper if you’ve ever seen one. Jonothan seems to be absorbing in the sights of the manicured shop displays as you all walk through the shopping district.

The further you walk, the fancier the stores get. You feel a little uneasy about the growing price tags with every step you take, but don’t say anything. If it comes down to it you can just say nothing caught your eye. Charlie takes the three of you into various stores along the way, telling the two of you all about how ‘this piece is an offshoot of something that was in Paris fashion week this year’ and that ‘The stitching could have been better’ on this; clearly, she knows her stuff. Before you know it, you’re in the luxury brand side of the shopping district. You feel out of place, but Charlie and Jonothan guide you through these brands like it’s an average Tuesday.

As you walk through one particular store, one of their adverts catch your eye. It was promoting their summer perfume. The face staring back at you was about as familiar as three seconds ago.

“Haha hey Jono look! It’s you, BUT BIGGER. Ah man they totally edited out your freckles this time ‘round” You hear Charlie jab at Jonothan, your pale face must have been absolutely hilarious because you could hear Jonothan let out a quick laugh. Charlie smacks the back of his head.

“Be nice, not everyone rubs shoulders with high fashion models everyday like you do. Oh my gosh don’t be snooty” She reprimands.

It’s not that you’re in shock that your friends’ sister’s boyfriend is a famous model; but the fact that you didn’t recognise THE Jonothan Turner. The exact same model that Vanessa has been religiously following since you guys met in college. You have heard about basically every single online escapade this guy has had, which has stressed out his poor manager and social media team to no end. His latest shoots and promotional videos shoved in your face by her while you’re trying to get reports done at work.

You recompose yourself and shake your head “No it’s not that at all! I just can’t believe I met you and didn’t recognise you! My friend is a big fan, she’s shown me all of your shoots and despite all that I totally didn’t register that THAT was who I was talking to and hanging out with” You’re rambling.

“Ah, so that was it” Jonothan now had a slight smirk on his face “And I take it you’re…not a fan?”

“NO, it’s not that, just that this kind of stuff” you gesture to the various fancy displays and salespeople around the store “never really caught my eye, not my scene…”

Jonothan gently nods, and then goes off to continue wandering the store. I guess that’s that.

“Did your friend really show you every single shoot?” Charlie was back next to you in an instant, leaving Jonothan to do his own thing.

“Every single one since I’ve met her at least, I guess I’m up to date”

“How would she feel about seeing my own personal shoots with him”

“I think she would implode seeing stuff that hasn’t been released to the public,” you pause “But wouldn’t you feel weird showing them to her? I mean she’s a big fan…like ravenous almost”

Charlie giggles “Not really. A fan is a fan, at the end of the day that guy is still my boyfriend despite it all.”  You’re both sifting through some clothes “Besides, he’s a model. It’s his job to be looked at”

You guess you have to agree with that.

“Oooh let’s go in here! They have some amazing accessories!! Maybe we’ll find something for you” She enthuses. You not so much. The three of you were very much in the crazy expensive side of the shopping district now, so expensive that the pieces don’t have any price tags on them. But she wasn’t wrong, the pieces were amazing and so absolutely your style. Within the short amount of time you have been hanging out, Charlie has figured out your tastes with scary accuracy. As Jonothan is on the other side, trying out some new rings with one of the attendants; Charlie and you are taking a look at the necklaces and bracelets. Your eyes land on a stunning piece, something so your style it’s basically torture to look at knowing that it is most certainly out of your price range. You will yourself to look away, you can fantasise about it later while buying cheap jewellery online.

“See anything you like?” She asks, suddenly close to you. You jump a bit, so absorbed in that piece you didn’t notice her right next to you.

“Uhh, no, not really” You lie. “I don’t think today is my lucky day”

“Oh, that’s a shame”

Leaving the store, Charlie and Jonothan are walking out each with matching black paper shopping bags. You on the other hand are empty handed, save for those pair of sunglasses and shirt you bought earlier on in the day when the stores were a lot cheaper. Despite your lack of purchases, you were satisfied with the day, you well and truly did window shop. Charlie and Jonothan being professionals at such a thing. If you were to do it alone, you would have never dared to even step foot in the direction of the stores and boutiques you saw today. It really did refresh you to imagine styling and wearing all the clothes and accessories that piqued your interest. It helped that the energy Charlie and Jonothan brought to the table was easy enough to match. You still couldn’t believe you met THE Jonothan, Vanessa would be bouncing off the walls at this information.

“Thanks for today guys, it was really great meeting you”

“No way!! I should be thanking YOU” Charlie makes a move to give you a goodbye hug, Jonothan gives you an awkward wave “Honestly, sorry for coming up to you in the café like that. Not my smoothest introduction hahaha” She’s looking flustered, how cute.

“Yeah, it was alright meeting you” Jonothan adds.

“Oh!! Wait, like…I totally was going to ask when we were walking around the stores earlier. Can we exchange numbers?” She asks, fishing around her bag for her phone. You agree and add each other as contacts. “One more thing! Haha sorry I keep almost forgetting things. Let’s take a selfie to commemorate our meeting! What crazy chance we had today”

“As long as you promise to send it to me” you smile as you position yourself in the frame of the picture. Charlie quickly snaps various poses and angles. Once you’re done, you say goodbye to them and head in the opposite direction; waving them off for a little bit longer.

Your phone pings

’10 attachments’

‘Hope we get to hang out soon!’

You’re smiling down at your phone, something that seems to be happening more and more often these days.

‘Of course ;3 Thank you for today!!’ you reply back.

So much for a day just by yourself…this was better.

[jealousraisin]

Ch.4 - Texting & Little Treats

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These past weeks Luke and you have been texting non-stop. You sending him pictures of your lunches and craft projects. Him sending you updates on the most mundane things like how he went to the grocery store today and got a candy bar. During your breaks, your co-workers can find you head down, smiling at your phone at some stupid text. Vanessa is always trying to read your texts between him and you.

‘I am FIENDING for a little treat right now, work has been so stressful lately 🙄’ You relay. It was true. You had to help manage an important project with another department and some of the people on your assigned team just were NOT pulling their weight.

‘What kind of treat?’

You sigh, leaning back into your chair. You’re staying late tonight to catch up on some reports that slipped through the cracks while you were gone from the office doing field research. Your mind thinking about the only thing that could satisfy these stress cravings; an iced coffee and a donut, it would keep you awake enough to smash out this report, get home and crash for the weekend.

‘I would kill for an iced coffee and a donut rn 😫. Sucks everywhere is closed right now waaaaa’

‘I’m just complaining, ignore me’ you quickly follow up

‘I’ll get you some if you want’

‘Dude, everything is closed rn. As if’

‘I have my ways….drop your location and give me 20 minutes’

You doubt he’s serious. But there’s no harm in humouring him you think.

‘*Address* 👈 Where I am currently suffering’

Read.

You turn back to your work, having been distracted for long enough. These spreadsheets aren’t going to graph themselves and this report won’t write itself either. Tapping away at your keyboard you almost forget about the exchange you had earlier until your phone buzzes again.

Luke is calling…

You pick up.

“Hello?”

“Come downstairs I don’t have a keycard to get in”

“Huh?”

“Come down, let me in. I’m in the lobby”

You get up from your chair and head to the elevator. The floor numbers steadily going down until they hit the ground floor. As the elevator door opens, you catch a glimpse of Luke, phone still up to his ear. He turns around, face lighting up as he makes eye contact with you.

“There you are” muffles out from your phone’s speaker.

In his hand is an iced coffee and a paper bag, which from your assumption is a donut. He makes his way over; you tap your I.D lanyard on the terminal allowing him to pass through the automatic gates. Luke raises the items to you, nudging you to take them. Your face is one of disbelief.

“No way! Thankyou?!” looking down at the items, you feel your energy coming back to you already. “Did you want to come up? I could use the company”

“Sure, I’ve been curious about where you work. You have been mentioning it a lot”

Luke follows you to the elevator. Pressing your floor’s button; the doors close and now it’s just you and your late-night saviour. A bit of awkwardness blooms in your chest, you haven’t physically seen the guy since the morning after the party and have only been communicating with him through texting. That call two minutes ago being the first time you have called each other.

“so…” you awkwardly start “you gonna tell me where you got this so late?”

“Nope.”

You stare down at the iced coffee once again, still not believing this is the turn of events for the night.

“A magician never reveals his secrets” He jokes.

The elevator door opens, revealing the dark office floor where you have been holed up in the entire evening. The lamp on your desk the only real source of light aside from the lights in the hallway which are always on. You make your way over to your desk, Luke trailing close behind. Setting down your precious little treats, you wake your computer up from sleep. You get to work, starting to take a sip of the iced coffee

“Nothing for you?” You ask, noticing aside from your late-night snack, he didn’t bring anything else along.

Luke shakes his head. “Just wanted to help you out”

“Oh come on now, I can’t be the only one enjoying a little something right now” You offer up your drink “have some of mine, we can split it”

He wordlessly accepts, a little hesitant at first. He got this just for you. Taking a sip, he leans back in your coworkers’ swivel chair. You both quietly split the treats as you go back to working on your reports and spreadsheets, now with renewed energy you hammer away at the remaining tasks.

Finishing up a lot faster with a full stomach and company, you smile as you send off that last report and log off for the day. Stretching in your chair you revel at being able to finally start off your weekend. Save for a couple of questions here and there Luke kept relatively quiet throughout.

“I’m done! Hello weekend!” You quietly cheer “and I couldn’t have done it this quickly without your help”

“Glad to be of service” he jokingly salutes.

“Hey um…if you’re not doing anything after this…” you hesitate a little “did you want to come over to my place?”

“Bringing me back to yours already? At least take me to dinner first” He teases

“Does half of an iced coffee and a donut count as dinner?” You joke back as you walk to the elevator for the final time this week.

“You got me there, alright let’s go” He follows you

Once again on the ground floor you head outside, about to walk to the bus stop when Luke gets your attention; of course, how could you forget? He drove here.

“Unless you’re planning on meeting me at your own place, I would suggest I drive us both there”

You flush red a little, autopilot is one heck of a thing. Getting in the familiar car you find that you don’t have to put your address in again; he has it saved. Pulling out from the curb, Luke makes quick work of the commute back home. In the blink of a tired eye, you’re already parked and heading towards the doors of your apartment complex.

“Welcome to my humble abode” You jest in a regal tone as you open your door. You mentally high-five yourself for tidying up this morning so that he doesn’t have to see your laundry and miscellaneous scattered objects everywhere.

“Nice place” He looks around, taking off his shoes near the door “Roommates?”

 “Nope, just me” You think back to when you had roommates back in college “I’d rather not chance a repeat of my previous roommate experiences”

Luke nods as he takes in your apartment properly. It wasn’t a big place by any means, but it was more than enough for you and everything you wanted to do in your space. A 2-bedroom place, with a decent view out onto the city below.

“Would you like a drink?”

“Sure, I’ll take whatever you’re having”

‘Just like last time’ you think.

Bringing him the same drink you’re having to kick off the weekend, you both settle in on your couch. Taking your first sip you can’t help but sigh, it’s been a week. You can’t wait to sleep in and then go out and have some ‘me time’. You turn on the TV, opening a streaming app.

“We didn’t get to finish the last hangover movie; I feel like we have to commit to the bit after seeing the first two”

Luke turns to you; a smile is on his lips as he takes a sip of his drink. “Aww you remembered”

“I may have been vaguely drunk and exhausted at that point in the night but I do remember seeing those movies with you. Though I will admit, number three is fuzzy around the edges”

“Let’s watch it then” he nods.

The movie begins.

Throughout the movie you both end up finding various snacks and go through a few more drinks. By the end of it you’re feeling the effects of the drinks you’ve had. You get up to clear the plates, you stumble a little; tripping over your own feet. Your hands try to steady you by grabbing onto any surface it can find. Half-landing onto Luke, half-landing on the couch; You embarrassedly scramble to get off him.

“Woah there” he gently laughs as he helps you back up “I think we hit our limit of drinks for the night, here let me help you with the plates” You gratefully accept the offer. The two of you do the dishes in quiet synchronicity, him washing up and you drying and putting away. As you are finishing up finding all the proper places for your dishes, Luke takes a seat on the stools of your kitchen bench. He watches you as you go back and forth in your kitchen space. He makes conversation.

“So, no roommates…but surely your partner comes over and stays the night, right?”

You laugh a little, with your back to him as you put away some plates “No partner to come over and stay the night. Although my friend Vanessa, the one who left me to fend for myself at the party, does come and stay here with me often enough”

You miss the small smile that graces Luke’s face. As you turn back around, he quickly returns to a neutral expression. You finished tidying up and the two of you are feeling tired.

“I’d really rather you not drive after having drinks, I have a bed in the other room you can use” You offer.

He takes you up on your offer, but wants to take a shower before bed. You show him where your bathroom is and let him get to it.

As Luke is stepping out of the bathroom you realise you should give him something slightly more comfortable to wear to sleep, you remember that his red hoodie is still in your possession. You’re slightly embarrassed that you have been using it for so long without mentioning to him that you still have it. You go into your room to go and get it, the garment laying on your bed as you left it this morning.

“Here, I forgot to give this back to you that morning you dropped me back home.” You look off to the side as you offer it up to him.

“Oh! Thanks, I was starting to miss my beloved comfort hoodie” He sleepily smiles “It’s fine that it’s been with you though”

You nod in flustered agreement. Leading the way to the spare bedroom, you show him where he can charge his phone and let him know to feel free to have whatever is in the fridge and do as he does at his place.

“Mi casa es tu casa” You exclaim as you bid him goodnight.

“goodnight” He replies as he watches you go into your room right in front of his. Once you close the door he does as well. His eyes look down onto the hoodie he was holding in his hand, as he puts it on an unfamiliar smell hits him, your soap and shampoo. You’ve been wearing this more than just that morning he dropped you off home.

[jealousraisin]

“you can’t keep running off like this”

“who said you had to follow?”

“it’s my job to follow”

“i didn’t hire you”

“you didn’t have to”

Charlie tips her head back, a small laugh escapes her. She starts to idly run her fingers through the small patch of clovers, eyes scanning for any sign of luck she can pluck from the ground.

Jonathan scans their surroundings, relaxing just slightly once certain they are not under watch of anyone or anything. This isn’t the first nor last time he would have to follow Charlie’s little escapes throughout the castle and kingdom.

When they were younger, just reaching their teen years, Charlie (much to her dismay) was to be attending a small gathering in the courtyard. Her Majesty and a small number of her closer friends were having a high tea, an excellent opportunity for a young Charlie to put her etiquette lessons to practise. Jonathan was stationed nearby, monitoring the area for any threats as he was taught to do. First mistake. This was yet to be known to him, but Charlie was not, even for a second, intending on staying at this gathering for long. And a new annoying habit was about to begin, a habit which he could never voice annoyed him, lest he wanted his head to roll.

Finishing his assessment of their surroundings and deeming it safe, he took a glance to Charlie. Who was not there anymore. Oh. OH.

A sharp spear of internal panic ran through his spine, his face nor demeanour showing the thrashing flow of thoughts going through his head at that moment.

Focus.

Out of the corner of his eye he caught movement. Got you.

He casually and calmly moved towards the direction he saw her go off to. Her Majesty much too absorbed in entertaining her company to notice. Rounding the corner, he spots her heading into the hedge maze.

Great.

Making her way through the various turns and dead ends, she finds herself in a corner of the meticulously trimmed hedges that people often miss, with a bench and one of her many notebooks stashed away in a box hidden in the bush. Smiling lightly, she pulls out her notebook and pencil and is about to begin exploring her ideas for honing her artificer items.

“Princess, I strongly suggest returning to the gathering, lest your mother become upset at your absence”

Charlie practically jumped out of her skin. Unfortunately it seems she wrongly assumed this would be the best way to skirt the ever watchful eye of her knight and the incessant silent nagging from her mother to ‘use her etiquette knowledge’. A short huff of annoyance left her.

“Come on, you and I both know that you would rather be doing anything BUT standing there while my mother and her friends chat away about whatever is going on throughout the kingdom.” She looked at him head on, His expression not shifting from the look he always has; slightly scowling, brows and eyes set in a way that feels more and more threatening the longer you look, like he’s ready to bite at any second.

“I would much rather prefer if you would please return to the gathering Miss”

“And if I don’t?”

“Then i have no choice but to take you back by force, I can assure you, your highness, that it will not be difficult for me to do so, but it most definitely will be embarrassing for you”

Charlie’s mind envisioned her being carried by him all the way through the maze and back to the tea party, her cheeks flushed a deep red, her eyebrows furrowing.

“Fine,” She huffed “but i’m not happy about this, i’ll tell mother about this” Turning on her heel she started to head back towards the courtyard.

“Glad to hear you have had a change of heart, i am sure your mother would be delighted to hear that you would much rather not be in attendance of her gatherings.”

Charlie could have sworn she heard a smile through his words, but when she turned around to glare at him, that same stone like expression was still on his stupid stupid face.

“Well done on handling Charlie’s little escape today” An off handed remark from Her Majesty was said as Jonathan was retiring for the night. “Oh come on now don’t look so surprised, she is my daughter after all. She has been doing her best to slip by me from the moment she could crawl, today was the day i pass that responsibility of keeping her where she needs to be from me to you.” Jonathan blinked at her.

“Thank-you your Majesty, i apologise for any inconvenience I may have caused today” He bowed, The queen gently nods her head in return and continues down the hall.

“I remember the first time i tried sneaking off like it was yesterday, you have to admit i’ve gotten better at it” Charlie laughed softly

“i truly wish you wouldn’t” Jonathan replies, joining in on the search. Instantly his eyes land on one, a four leaf clover. He reaches towards it at the exact same time as Charlie does. He instantly retracts his hand at the sudden contact, clearing his throat.

“Sharp eyes Jono, here.” She picks the clover and places it behind his ear. “maybe with this your wish will come true, i doubt it though. I don’t plan on stopping this any time soon”

A gentle exasperated laugh escapes him. “Thank you” he relishes in the casual way they can interact with each other during these little escapes, over the years finding each others company more and more comfortable. “But i do believe it is time to head back your highness”

“aww come on, they definitely haven’t noticed us missing just yet”

“exactly, i would like to keep it that way, come on let’s go” he smiled while offering his hand to help her back up, Charlie gently taking the offer, brushing off her dress of any grass and clovers tangled in the lace.

They return, and it’s like they never even left the hall. Back is the unreadable mask Jonathan wears, and Charlie’s masterful manners and etiquette are on full display again to the company the Castle keeps. But a sharp eye would notice the extra little accessory a knight is wearing.