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burrowbaddie · 2 years ago

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Moving On

Joe Burrow x Female Reader

Series Summary: Childhood friends to lovers to nothing. You and Joe had history, you were each others first and then you were nothing. Years later, you guys rekindle the flame but with more obstacles in the way this time.

Chapter 6 Summary: You and Joe try to move on from the scandal.

Word Count: 4.4k

Warnings: Afab!reader, smut, swearing. Oral (female & male receiving), vaginal fingering, penetrative sex, vaginal sex, unprotected sex, cheating! (You are the side girl, sorry.), the small fight scene, jealous Joe, mild violence, stalker

Series Masterlist

You lock yourself in your office, trying to avoid co-workers and patients. Your phone is blowing up with texts from family, friends, and random people who have your number somehow. All of it was sending you into a panic. Joe's name flashes on your phone.

"Joe." You cry.

"I'm so sorry, baby. I'll fix this. I promise. I'm going to fly home right now."

"What am I supposed to do?"

"Don't look at any of your social media accounts, and don't answer phone calls. I'll see you when I get home. I love you." Joe hangs up, leaving you alone again. Tate knocks on your door, but you're too ashamed to open it. He uses his master key and opens the door, locking it behind him.

"Mya is calming things down out there." Tate walks over and hugs you. You can't stop crying; people have already been texting you hurtful things. Tate takes your phone, so you can stop reading your IG comments which are flooded with hateful words.

"What am I going to do?" You can't stop crying. Your chest is so tight that you begin to hyperventilate.

"Hey, you have to calm down. Think about the baby. Hey!"

Tate's words are muffled together and unheard because of your rapid heartbeat. All you can hear is the blood pulsing. And then everything goes black. When you wake up, you're in a hospital bed with your OB next to you.

"Relax. You're okay. You started having a panic attack. Tate came to get me. I'm taking you off the rest of your shift. Tate is going to take you home." She says. Mya is sitting next to you with an apologetic look. You comply with your OB's ruling. Tate takes you home, and Mya promises to come by after work. When you get home, Tate turns off your cell phone and takes it. You argue that Joe might call, but Tate says he will handle it. George is on high alert because your new address was also leaked. You know that your parents must be blowing up your phone, so you cry yourself to sleep. a few hours later, Tate wakes you up to eat and let you know Joe is on his way home. You refuse to eat, but he drags you from bed downstairs to Mcdonalds on the dining room table. You take a seat, picking at the fries. The front door opens. Joe rushes to you, and you immediately break down. His eyes glare at Tate as he rubs your back. He knows this isn't the time to be jealous, but the thought of someone else comforting you pisses him off.

"I'm going to fix this. I promise."

"Joe, I don't think you can fix this," Helen states, making her presence known. You try to calm down and wipe your eyes.

"There has to be something. I won't deal with the media talking about her like she's a side piece."

"Joe, when you started a relationship with her, she was one. I told you to leak the story first; now the ball is in Nicole's hands. I don't know how you will be able to fix this." Helen looks at you with a frown.

"Sorry to step in on this, but you should come clean about Nicole. Do an interview and tell the truth."Tate says, making everyone turn to him.

"I'm not doing an interview. I never have and never will do one about my personal life. It's no one's business." Joe's intense, and you hold his hand to calm him down.

"The kid is right. This might help clear some things up."

Joe lifts you and takes you upstairs. He doesn't want to hear a thing from anyone else. For the next few days, you hide out with Joe inside your home. Joe misses practice, but he doesn't care. Your health and sanity are far more critical. Today, your parents are coming over, which sends you into a further spiral.

"I don't even know what to say! What were you thinking!" Your mother shouts, pacing the living room. Joe's parents and your father sit quietly to the side while your mother spends the next 10 mins chewing you and Joe out.

"You don't even want to know what the people at my church have been saying about you!" Your mother directs her anger toward you this time.

"Ma'am-"

"Boy, do not even fix those lips to interrupt me. I am speaking to my daughter."

"I understand that, but I'm not going to let you speak to my wife like that." Joe stands up in front of you protectively. Your mother's eyes widen along with everyone else.

"Your what?" Robin speaks up, this time entirely shocked by this news.

"What we did was wrong. I know that. I ended this with Nicole. I know I should have been upfront about everything, but I wasn't. That's on me. I kept telling Cheeks things with Nicole were over, and she believed me. So don't put it all on her. We love each other, and I'm going to be with her. I'm going to marry her. She is the mother of my child and future children. I'm not going to let you or anyone on this Earth disrespect her, ma'am." Joe's words take the room by surprise, and shut your mother up. Your dad coughs. Mr.Burrow comes forward.

"Joe came to me some time ago and told me about them."

"You knew?" Robin's voice is filled with disappointment. Your dad stands up.

"I think we all knew deep down. Look at them. The kid's been in love with my daughter since he was 12. Our daughter has been equally in love with him too. Right now, all we can do is support our children. I don't care what the media or church says about my daughter. Because she is my daughter, and I know her." Your dad kisses your head, and Mr.Burrow nods. Your mother leaves the room, and Robin stares at you and Joe.

"Dad." You whisper, hugging him.

"Your mom will take some time, but she will get over it. You and Joe are adults. What choices you make do not define the whole picture." He says, kissing your head before going off to find your mother. Mr. Burrow pulls Joe away, and Robin finally gets up. She puts her hands on your belly, smiling with tears in her eyes.

"That's my grandbaby."

You nod your head.

"I'm happy. I wish you would have said something to me. You or Joe, but I get it. You're not little kids anymore. No one wants to run to their parents." Robin continues rubbing your belly until your mother comes back. She won't even look at you. You don't blame her. Your mother grabs her things and leaves with your father behind her. Joe's parents stay awhile talking to the both of you; they leave an hour later when Helen comes.

"So here's the thing we need to take this thing head on."

"What are our options?" You ask, biting your lip.

"Interviews. You need to do one or Joe." She says, staring at you. You look at Joe for an answer.

"I can't. Doing an interview like this is too personal. There's nothing else?" Joe stands, running his hand through his hair. He's flustered and pissed, so you try your best to keep him calm by holding his hand.

"I-I'll do it." You whisper. It's been days since you've heard your own voice outside of crying. Joe shakes his head.

"I'll do it. Baby, I want you to rest. You don't need to be in front of the camera for them to ridicule you even more. I will come clean about everything."

"This is good. You two need to go out on a date. Show the world how in love you guys are. Your parents need to be on board with this too. A family outing. That's good." Helen claps at her brilliant plan. You give Joe an uneasy look. There is no way your mother would agree to this. Helen tells Joe she will take care of the interview and let him know when it is all set. The object is to get in front of the TV before Nicole. After Helen leaves, you're left alone with Joe. There hasn't been much talking between you two since the story broke up. Joe follows you to the bedroom, contemplating what to say. You sit on the bed staring out the window. Joe squats in front of you, rubbing your legs.

"I'm sorry about all of this. I should have ended things with Nicole right away. Talk to me. Please?" He begs. Your eyes look down at him, but you can't bring yourself to acknowledge his words.

"I need to go to work." This is your only response. You push his hands off your legs and walk to the bathroom. Joe stands up and follows you, but you slam the door in his face. You know you have no right to be mad. This is just as much your fault as his. But it hurts, and being pregnant fuels every little emotion inside you. So the only way you know how to cope is to ignore Joe and go to work, burying yourself in something you love.

You don't know why you thought work would be the best place to be because half the staff keeps asking you questions. People you've never met from the other departments. Tate protects you from most of their comments and questions, threatening to beat them up.

"Mr.Cove? Tell me where the pain is?" You ask, checking on a patient.

"Uhh, my right."

You look at the chart, which said his left side was the trouble area.

"Your right?" You question, walking to the other side of the bed.

"Yeah. I think. I need to ask you a question."

"What's up?" You ask, lifting his shirt.

"How long was the affair with Jie Burrow, and is that his child?" The man asks, pulling a tape recorder out of his pocket. You smack it out of his hand and call security.

"Come on! The silence is killing everyone! It has to be his child, right?" The guy shouts as security removes him. You return to the office, where you find Mike and the Hospital Director, Max. The board called a meeting to determine if you are eligible to remain head of the ED. You stand in the room watching everyone vote.

"All in favor of removing her as head of the ED? Raise your hands." Elaine says. Seven out of nine people raise their hands. Max looks around the room, shocked.

"We don't have a choice. The scandal will only cause further donations to stop. We're sorry. Mike will be named head immediately." Elaine states.

"What we do in our personal lives has nothing to do with work. She has worked her ass off-"

"Max, it's fine. I'll get going." You whisper, walking out. Mike wears a big victory smile. You don't burst into tears until you get home. Joe pulls you into a hug apologizing again. He was going to practice but said he would miss it and stay with you. You shake your head.

"I'll be okay. Quinn is coming this evening. Go to practice. you missed enough days." You whisper. Joe kisses your lips and grabs his bags. At practice, not much is said to him about the scandal. Everyone is focused on going to the championship and then the Superbowl. In the locker room, Ja'Marr sits beside Joe, shaking his head.

"How's Cheeks?"

"Not good." Joe looks down at his phone. Helen was able to get him an interview for 20/20.

"If there is anything we can do, let me know. It's really shitty how Nicole went about this. Like there is no way she didn't know the story was coming out." Ja'Marr says. Joe nods his head.

"Good looking out. Right now, Cheeks is struggling. They fired her from the head of ED."

"That's crazy. She's an amazing doctor." Sam chimes in. Joe nods his head. Dj walks by, not saying a word but making sure Joe hears him chuckling. Joe stands up, and Ja'Marr jumps and stands before him.

"Don't let him get to you. Focus on taking care of Cheeks and getting this ring." Ja'Marr tells him. Joe grabs his things and leaves the locker room. Leaning on his car is a young woman.

"I'm not answering any questions. Get off my car." Joe says, throwing his bag in the backseat.

"I didn't want things to get like this, Joe. It was honestly a huge mistake. I just wanted things with you and Nicole to be over. I thought she would end things. And the other girl, I thought if I scared her, she would stop too. I'm sorry."

"What? Who are you?"

"Your biggest fan. Here this is for you." She tries to hand Joe an envelope, but Joe reaches over to grab her hood. The girl drops the envelope and runs. Joe picks it up and empties the content in his hands. Inside are photos of DJ and Nicole from when he first got drafted. Joe looks around for the girl but can't find her when he gets home. Quinn is in the kitchen for the first time in days; he hears your laughter. Joe walks in and leans against the door frame watching you and Quinn.

"Joseph!" She waves him over. Joe stands behind you, rubbing your belly. You lean to the side so he can kiss your cheek.

"How are my babies?" He whispers into your ear. You nod. You were actually feeling better because of Quinn. Dr. Brian called you, telling you it wouldn't let this slide and would have it handled by Monday. Quinn walks away to answer a phone call, and Joe tells you about the interview. He shows you the photos of Nicole and DJ. You place the photos down on the counter.

"So this all came from that stalker. Your fan. Joe, that's scary. What did they want from this?"

"Me to be single, I guess. I didn't look at her face well, but I think we'll be okay right now. I will figure something out about it next week." Joe holds you and sighs. He asks you what he should do with the pictures. You tell him not to leak it. You don't want to fight dirty with Nicole. The next day you build up the strength to speak with your mother. She sits across from you while your father and Quinn stay in the kitchen.

"I don't hate you. I'm not mad, just disappointed. Everyone is saying such nasty things about you. They called you the new age Monica Lewinsky." Your mother shakes her head. You try to cover your laugh, but you can't. You start laughing hysterically. Your mother looks at you like you have two heads and laughs. Both of you are laughing so much that tears are rolling down your faces.

"Monica? That is the funniest thing I have ever heard." You wipe your eyes, and your mother smiles. She stands up and takes a seat next to you.

"I had to say unholy things to the women at the church. I will never let anyone disrespect my baby or my grandchild. I love you both so much, and Joseph. If you are happy, all I can do is support you. I hope you learned from your mistake."

"I mean, I have the man of my dreams. I don't plan on cheating or being a side piece again."

Your mother frowns.

"Don't talk about yourself like that."

"Mom, it's true. I've come to terms with what our relationship was. But we're past that, so we will focus on our family now and growing." You rub your belly, wearing a big smile. Your mother kisses your head and rubs your belly. Your father joins you with Quinn. Before you know it, Friday arrives. You and Joe have been seen out and about without a care in the world of what people think. While in LA for the interview, Paparazzi followed you guys, and you did your best to ignore them and their questions. You sat behind the scenes watching Joe sit across from the host.

"So, How about you tell us about her? Just the story between you two."

Joe smiles.

"We met in 6th grade during this meet new sixth graders event. She is allergic to bees, so when I met her, her face was swollen. She had just got stung by a bee. That's where the nickname Cheeks came from. In the back of my mind, I've always loved her since that moment. I couldn't really put my feelings into words." Joe chuckles.

"But you knew it was love. You guys dated?"

"We dated in college, yeah. We broke up because I went on to LSU, and she stayed to start her internship. We just kind of fell apart after the breakup."

"So things with Nicole. Why cheat?"

Joe sighs. This was hard for him; you knew it and gave him an encouraging smile.

"I wanted to end things with Nicole, but she was going through a lot, so I didn't want to add to the heartache. In the long run, I was a fool for that. I hurt both women in the process. I've apologized to Nicole many times. I completely understand if she doesn't accept my apology." Joe states. You told him not to bring up Nicole's threats because it would only look bad on his part. To the world, Nicole is the only victim. Joe continues answering every question thrown at him. He responds with honesty and with ease. It warms your heart every time he talks about you and his daughter.

"I'm excited to be a father. I'm excited to marry my first love, and I'm excited about everything in the future."

"What would you like to say to the fans who feel like you've let them down?"

"I would like to say I'm sorry. At the end of the day, I am a human, and I have flaws. I love this woman, and that is not one of my flaws, and I would like everything to pass and to move on. I know it will take some time for people to forgive me, but I am working on being a better man." Joe's words are soft-spoken.

"Anything you want to end on?"

"Cheeks, I love you. I'm sorry that you have to go through all of this because of me, but if I had to do it again, I would love you each and every time. In every life, In every world. I promise I will find you and love you every time." Joe is now looking at you. You wipe your tears and whisper you love him back. The guy ends the interview and shakes Joe's hand wishing him the best of luck. When Joe takes off his mic and makes his way over to you, you waddle as fast as you can to him, meeting him halfway and kissing him with so much love and passion. Everyone in the room smiles, looking on.

"I love you so much." You cry. Joe smiles in between kisses.

"Yeah? Enough to marry me tonight?" He asks. You nod your head.

"But My parents and-"

"Already handled that," Quinn says, showing her phone. You guys finish up on set and leave for a tiny little chapel where Joe's parents and your parents are waiting. Fran and Quinn stand to the side as you walk down the aisle. And in that tiny little chapel, you guys get married. You guys fly back to Cincinnati so Joe can get ready for his game. After the interview, people seem to have a better picture of you and Joe. And the weeks go by quieter than that scandal-breaking week. Joe is going to the Superbowl, and everyone is in a better place. Nicole does an interview that doesn't add on to your hate but doesn't make people like you more. But recently, you've come to terms with not caring about the outside world's opinion about you or Joe. You post Joe all over your IG and limit the comment sections for your mental health, and so Joe doesn't start cursing people out because he has twice already on his backup, of course. Joe posted you one time on his story, and the majority of people loved it; maybe because you are pregnant, no one wants to bully a pregnant person.

The night before the Superbowl, Joe's attention is focused on the game, which is driving you crazy. You'll be nine months soon, and your hormones have been through the roof, so you sit on his lap, cockwarming him. Joe rubs your back and turns rewinds the play. You want to move badly, but Joe only allowed you in this position if you stayed like that for 30 minutes. You shift, causing him to groan.

"Has it been 30 mins?" You whine. Joe kisses your neck.

"It's only been 10 mins, baby. Stop." Joe warns, his voice getting deep. You smirk and shift in his lap again. Your belly was preventing you from being close to him.

"You've been studying this same footage all week. Philly this, Philly that. fuck me right now." You moan, circling your hips. Joe groans and presses pause. He holds your hips and starts bouncing you on his cock.

"You are so needy, Cheeks. Begging me all week to fuck this pretty little pussy. Why?"

"I miss-mm-mm you." You moan, stuttering, when Joe's tip touches your cervix. Joe speeds up, bouncing you on his lap like a rag doll. You take every inch and begin sobbing as you feel your walls breaking; an orgasm follows after.

"Feels good. So good." You cry as you cum on his dick. Joe smirks and lifts you with his dick still inside of you. he carries you to the bed holding your legs up as he fucks you into the mattress. You awakened a monster because you knew before a big game Joe enjoyed fucking pretty much all night. During college, he would fuck you all night only to wake you right before 6 am practice to fuck you again. And just like college Joe takes you all night, but this time he lets you sleep in, cooking you breakfast in the morning.

"Nervous for tonight?"

"A little, but I have a good feeling," Joe says as his phone rings. You look at the name. Both of you are shocked.

"Nicole?" Joe answers, putting it on speaker.

"I just wanted to wish you good luck."

"Thanks," Joe replies. The line is quiet.

"Why didn't you leak anything about my bullying or my threats? Why would you take all the heat? You found out about me and DJ, right? I mean, it was only twice better than what you did to me."

"It wasn't worth it. I hurt you, and I was going to pay for it. Whatever happens next for you is on you. You can't live your life being nasty to everyone you meet." Joe answers. Nicole is quiet again.

"I hate you, and I don't think I will ever get over how you made me feel, but I hope you win."

"Thanks. Goodbye, Nicole." Joe ends the call and gives you a what the fuck look. You laugh and lay back on your bed. Joe kisses your naked body before picking you up to shower with him. After the shower, you dress and get ready to meet his parents for lunch and game time. Quinn sits next to you as you get ready to cheer Joe on. He finds you in the crowd and blows you kisses during warm-ups. The game is neck and neck, with the Eagles scoring, then the Bengals. Usher is the halftime performance, and you and Quinn lose your mind during the set. During the third quarter, you start to feel uneasy and slight pain.

"Are you okay?" Robin asks with a worried expression. You nod, but then another pain rips through your belly.

"Something is wrong with the baby." You cry, buckling over. Quinn jumps up.

"Honey, you stay here. Quinn and I will take her to the medical unit." Robin says, helping you out of the area. From the Medical unit, you are sent directly to the hospital.

"You're going to have to baby today or the wee hours of tomorrow."

"But I'm not due until the end of February. I really can't have the baby. Joe's playing. I can't give birth." You cry. Robin holds your hand, trying to get you to calm down.

"You are in the right time frame to give birth, and your blood pressure is very high, so the best thing to do is to induce labor." The doctor says. You nod your head.

"Can you at least turn on the game?"

"Of course. Let's get you started." The doctor says, leaving. Robin calls Joe's dad to tell him the news. Your mother and father hop on the first flight to Vegas. They induce labor as you sit there watching Joe battle for his ring.

"Ouch! I need the-"

"On it!" Quinn jumps up to get the nurse. You find out you are 7 centimeters dilated and ask for an epidural. After you get it, you are doing much better and can enjoy the game.

"Touchdown!" You, Robin, and Quinn shout as Ja'marr scores a touching putting the Bengals in the lead with only 30 seconds left in the game. Joe goes off the field feeling amazing. He watches the next 30 seconds praying for the defense to hold it down. And they do. The Bengals win 24-14. Joe cheers with his teammates, forgetting to look into the crowd. A few people grab him for an interview. Helen grabs him before he can get caught up.

"She's going to be giving birth soon. You need to go!" She shouts, smiling. Joe looks at the crowd and doesn't see you. He takes off his pads and sprints to the back. Joe gets to the hospital in record time.

"You did it!" You shout. Joe kisses your lips.

"Today? We're having a baby today?" He asks. His mother nods her head.

"I'm dilating pretty fast. Joella is ready to come out and see us."

Joe doesn't leave your side for the rest of the night, and at 5:15 am, you give birth to a healthy baby girl. Joe tries to hide his tears, but he can't stay calm. When he makes skin-to-skin contact, he breaks down. You cry, staring at your husband holding your daughter.

A/N: Well lol This chapter is blah! But I hope it was decent enough. I'm sorry if it sucked! If you guys wanted more drama sometimes I hate dragging the story out too long and I felt it was time to wrap it up! There will be a short follow-up chapter! For sure! What kind of series would you guys like to see after this?

Tags: @joselyn001@savii999@lostaurorax@simpgirl-lat@edenhess @blinkloverx3 @dboanalooaa @nm112495 @mhm-ok-sure@katiehud@blu3jeanbaby@mrosales16@wineauntharry @Cosmolover96 @loviingjihyo @hrlzy @spideybrina @wickedfun9 @dessxoxsworld @Tjb113 @heartsml @munsonrry @blu3jeanbaby

#joe burrow x you #joe burrow #joe burrow fic #joe burrow x reader #joe burrow fan fic #joe burrow x y/n #joe burrow imagine #second string #joe burrow x u #joe burrow x oc #joe burrow smut #joe burrow fluff

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burrowbaddie · 2 years ago

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Sorry Not Sorry

Joe Burrow x Female Reader

Chapter 5.5 Summary: Your perfect life with Joe doesn't exist without cracks.

Word Count: 4.4k

Series Masterlist

"Joe, you have had a fantastic season so far. You're glowing; You're making plays: calling the right calls. What has changed from the last season to this season?"

"I'm happy. I feel good. My teammates feel good, so it's all showing on the field." Joe responds with a wide grin.

"Is there something special that's happening? Like you really have a pep in your step these days. You're undefeated. What do you think the chances of getting to the Superbowl are?"

"I mean, we still have some games before we can talk about the big one. But we are going to get there and get that ring. I can guarantee you that." Joe winks and finishes his interview. You turn the tv off and place a blanket over Tate. Dr.Brian had to extend his leave for a year, so you've been adjusting to your position quite well. You're hoping he returns soon because you will be on maternity leave in a few months. Your pager goes off, and Tate jumps out of his sleep.

"Get some more rest. I got a call; it's okay." You tell him.

"Nope. I need to clean something before my boss catches me." Tate follows you towards the ED.

"What's going on?" You ask, making your way over to the commotion.

"This bitch really thinks I have time to sit around waiting for fucking tests! Discharge me!"

"Okay, sir, you need a CT scan; you were involved in an accident, and you need stitches on your head." You say, reading his chart.

"I'm fine, bitch! I want to go home!" He yells, getting in your face. A male nurse pulls him back, but the guy swings at him, knocking him down. He then turns his anger towards you. He grabs your arm and starts shaking you, shouting in your face. You quickly shield your belly out of reflex when Tate steps in, knocking the man to the floor.

"Are you okay?" He asks you. You're shaking and zoning out. Tate grabs your hand while security deals with the guy. You nod, and Mya takes you away to check on you.

"You're six months pregnant. Should you really be working here? You need to be in the office doing administrative work." She wears a look of concern on her face.

"I'm okay. It happens. Thank you, Tate." You turn to the boy, who wears a soft smile. Mya sighs, walking away.

"I didn't know you were pregnant."

"Have you seen this belly?" You laugh, rubbing it. Tate scratches his neck.

"So you have a boyfriend?" Tate's voice is filled with sadness as his eyes drift down. You put together what is happening and sigh.

"Tate. I'm much older than you, even if I had no boyfriend."

"You're acting like your 35. You're in your 20s! It's not that much older."

"I see you as a little brother. I'm an only child, so it's nice having you around." You pinch his cheeks, and he pouts like a child.

"I guess. What's the surprise you have for us next weekend?"

"It wouldn't be a surprise if I told you."

"Unless it's your hand in marriage, I don't care."

"Tate. Behave." You warn him. He nods and tells you he can't wait for the surprise. Fast forward to the following week. You pull into the parking lot of the Paycor Stadium. All three boys' eyes widen with excitement.

"No way! We're seeing the Bengals?! That's my favorite team!" TJ shouts, hopping out of the car as soon as you park.

"It's all of our favorite teams." Trey follows him out of the car to take in the scene. Tate wears a big grin and turns to you to thank you. But your gift doesn't end there. Before the game, you take them to meet some of the players.

"Ja'Marr, you're my favorite player ever! You've been a beast this season!" Trey says, watching Ja'Marr sign his jersey. You take notice of Joe and Tate talking and make your way over to them.

"Best QB in the game. No one can tell me otherwise! Plus, your girlfriend is hot. I have a crush on her for sure." Tate says with a cheeky grin. Joe's eyes drift to you.

"Really?"

"Yeah. I only watch the news because of Nicki. The rack she has is out of this world."

"Tate, watch your mouth." You shake your head laughing.

"But she is really hot. But my girlfriend is this one right here. Hottest woman to walk the earth." Tate throws an arm around you. You giggle and wiggle his arm off. Joe stops signing his jersey and eyeing Tate. You cough, getting Joe back to focus. He returns to signing but doesn't reply to Tate.

"Here. Enjoy the game." Joe walks away, and you shake your head. He can be so childish sometimes.

"You think he's mad because I called his girlfriend hot?" Tate asks you. You nod.

"Yeah. He can be petty like that."

"Ha. I made Joe mad. That's awesome."

"Grab your brothers and let's go get our seats." You tell him, making your way to Joe. Joe is sitting down getting his ankle wrapped when you approach him.

"You are such a child."

"How?"

"Why are you mad right now?"

"Why's he calling you his girlfriend?"

"Joseph, he is an 18-year-old boy with a crush. You are my grown-ass man boyfriend. Get a grip." You run your hand through his hair. Joe places his head on your belly.

"How is she?"

"Sleeping for now. Making me crave hot dogs and a ton of mustard."

"I'll go get-"

"Get ready for your game. I'm going to meet your mother and get our seats."

"I love you, baby." Joe looks up at you, waiting for a kiss puckering his lips together. You bend down, kissing his lips.

"Good luck, Joey boy." You turn to walk away when Joe slaps your ass.

"You know it turns me on hearing you call me that." He shouts after you. His athletic trainer finishes wrapping his ankle. You and the boys take your seat. The Bengals continue their winning streak. Robin hugs you and places her hand on your belly.

"I was so excited when Nicole said she was having a baby. But hearing that it was a false alarm made me sad. I hope I can be a pseudo-grandma to your little one."

"Of course. She's going to get all the love in the world." You tell her. After the game, you take the boys home and drop Tate off at his apartment. Tate was able to save up and get a small one-bedroom apartment with your help. The homeless house you signed off on should be opening in the spring. You made a hospital donor a deal he couldn't refuse; his name was on the project. Basically, you would be able to provide housing for the homeless for a lower cost for up to 18 months until the person could get a steady job. The small changes you've made around the department have helped open up the budget a bit, and with the donor ball coming up, you're sure you can persuade some more donations out of the rich.

At home, you draw yourself a bath, while your frozen pizza cooks in the oven. Your doorbell rings, and Geroge, your live-in security guard, jumps up to answer it. You moved in with Joe a month ago, but he refused to let you be alone, so he hired a guard to stay at your house whenever he was away.

"Where's Joe?" Nicole crosses her arms, staring Geroge down.

"Ma'am, you are not permitted to enter this house."

"Who the fuck are you? You can't keep me out!"

"What's going on?"

"Miss Nicole seems to be drunk. She is trying to enter your home."

"Oh gosh. It's okay. Let her in and get her some water. Thank you." You help Nicole into the house, and she stumbles to the living room.

"Nicole. Are you okay? How did you get here?" You ask her, helping her sit down.

"I fucking drove."

"That's not safe. Here drink some water." You give her the glass George hands you. You let her drink it while you call Joe. Joe is pissed and on his way home when you relay the message.

"Here," Nicole mumbles, handing you a manila envelope. You empty its contents and look over the photos and written messages. Nicole has been receiving the same threats as you. You stare at the negative pregnancy tests. Nicole confessed about not being pregnant last month, which wasn't a surprise to Joe.

"We thought it was you this whole time. After the attack, Joe got really protective. If he knew this was happening to you, he would have done something and-"

"He doesn't care about me. He hates me." She covers her face with her hands crying. You place a hand on her back, trying to console her, but you don't know what to say. Joe slams the door and makes his way to the living room.

"Nicole, what are you doing here?" Joe stands there waiting for her explanation. You get up and grab Joe by the forearm, pulling him to the kitchen.

"She's drunk, Joe. I think it would be best to let her sleep it off here."

"She's probably faking. Nicole is insane."

"Can I use your phone to call Amber? He clearly doesn't want me here." Nicole stumbles into the kitchen. You unlock your phone and hand it to her. Joe rolls his eyes and grabs water from the fridge. Nicole returns to the living room, ensuring you're occupied with Joe. She reaches into her pocket, pulls out a device that looks like a small charger, and plugs it into your phone, downloading everything.

"Fine, let her stay. I don't care." Joe walks off upstairs to the bedroom. You return to the living room, and Nicole hands you the phone.

"No answer. I guess I'm staying here." She whispers. You nod and take her to the guest room. Nicole stops in front of the nursery.

"You're having a girl?" She asks, leaning on the doorframe. You back peddle and stand beside her, looking at your progress in the room.

"Yeah. Her name is still being decided."

"Cool." Nicole rolls her eyes, and you close the door continuing to the guest room. Nicole sits on the bed, taking in this situation while you get her some clothes to sleep in.

"Just because I'm drunk doesn't mean I want to be friendly. I would rather sleep in my own clothes, thanks." She says, shoving them into your arms.

"Look, Nicole, I'm sorry about how we handled things. I'm not saying we should be best friends, but-"

"All I wanted to show you is the envelope. I've been getting the same thing for months. I didn't come here to make friends with you. You and Joe can die for all I care."

"Right. The envelope. Do you know who it might be? We thought it was you, but I guess not. Have they contacted you personally? From a phone or-"

"No. Just envelope and pictures."

"Umm, what do the photos of you and DJ mean?"

"I didn't cheat, if that's what you're asking. After Joe tried to break up with me, I might have had a fling with DJ. I was angry. That's it."

"It's fine. We should take all this to the police whoever this person is attacked me. They could very well attack you next." You warn her. Nicole rolls her eyes and climbs into bed.

"I'll be fine. Trust me."

You sigh and gather the photos taking them to your bedroom. Joe is already in the shower, so you join him in the bathroom. Leaning against your sink, you take a deep breath.

"The same person watching me has been watching Nicole."

Joe slides the shower door open.

"That's what she wants you to believe. Nicole is up to no good. I know her very well." Joe turns off the shower, grabs a towel, dries off, and wraps it around his waist.

"If she's such this terrible person, why were you with her?" Your tone takes Joe by surprise.

"What do you want me to say? She was nice, okay! But somewhere along the lines, her true colors started to show. Even if you didn't come back into my life, I would've broken up with her. She is a scheming, manipulating, egotistical person." Joe runs his hands through his wet hair waiting for you to say something; when you don't reply, he walks off. Joe intended to break things off with Nicole before you, but things happened fast.

"Look, I don't want to fight, but she is being stalked. She doesn't deserve that. I think if we both go to the police, something can be done. We have more evidence here." You shout, shaking the photos. You're getting frustrated that he isn't taking the situation seriously enough for you.

"It's Nicole. She wants you riled up. Why would she drive here of all places."

"Joe! They attacked me! I don't think she would be here showing me this stuff if she was part of it. What kind of person-"

"Nicole is that type of person! I am telling you! I know her. She only cares about her fucking self! She wasn't even picked for the news anchor position. Ask me how she got it. Ask, go on?" Joe's voice boomed through the room. You crossed your arms, shaking your head.

"She exposed Kelly, the girl who actually earned the position. How? Because she blackmailed Kelly into quitting. She's not a good person. That's why I can't take the bullshit she says to you seriously." Joe is calmer, but you are on the verge of tears.

"You knew what she would do to me if she found out about us, and you just let it happen?"

Joe realizes what you're thinking.

"Baby-"

"You let her do this. You should've ended things. Get out!"

"Cheeks, I'm tired and-"

"Get out!" You scream, throwing his clothes. Joe quickly dresses, and you slam the door on his way out. Joe sleeps on the couch while you sit in the bedroom, thinking about everything. If Nicole was playing you, you needed to find out yourself. But if she were telling the truth, you'd be even more of an ass attacking her. You tossed and turned all night until finally letting sleep take you. In the morning, Joe entered the kitchen to find Nicole eating cereal.

"Wifey said I could help myself. Noticed you on the couch. Sorry if I caused trouble." Her smile annoyed Joe, who ignored her, walking over to the fridge.

"Hey, don't be so mean, Joey babe! I came here to talk. Soon the news will break about your infidelity. I'm sure your publicist will contact you shortly. I thought I should warn you in person. " Nicole empties her bowl into the sink and pats Joe on the back.

"Nicole, come on. You know we broke up so-"

"You started seeing her before we broke up. I'm going with that story. Prepare yourselves." She smiles and turns away.

"If the stalker is after you, that means they have something on you too. What is it?"

Nicole freezes up.

"None of your fucking business. Have fun, pretty boy." Nicole leaves the house as you enter the kitchen. Joe tries apologizing, but you tell him you work a double today and will see him tomorrow. Just like Nicole warned him, his publicist calls him.

"When is the story dropping?" He asks.

"We can hold it off for now, but the best thing to do is come forward. Who knows how Nicole will bend this story."

"Cheeks is six months pregnant."

"Jesus, Joe. What the hell is wrong with you?"

"The stress from this story won't benefit the baby or her. So do what you can, Helen. Please." Joe is defeated when he ends the call. He drives to his parent's house to tell them everything. Only his father is home, and Joe takes a seat.

"You look stressed. This season is going so well. You are going to the Superbowl again. I can feel it, son."

"Dad. I need to tell you something."

"You're not doping, right?"

"No. No way. I cheated on Nicole."

"Joe. I don't know what to say. Have you made up with her? I'm sure it was a lapse in judgment, and you guys can work it out." His dad shakes his head, leaning back in his chair.

"Cheeks is pregnant with my child. I broke things off with Nicole, but now she will expose the affair. I wanted to tell you guys before the story broke." Joe can't look at his father as he tells him everything. His father is shocked but not really all that surprised.

"I had a feeling. You look at that girl the same way you did in 6th grade. The best thing you can do now is to come forward before Nicole does and flips the story her way. You have to protect what you love. Your career is meaningful. This could damage your public opinion."

Joe doesn't take much from the conversation besides the fact that his father wants him to protect his career. He should have gone to his mother first. Sure, she would be disappointed, but at least he could get some advice. Joe makes his way to practice trying his best to keep his head focused. As the holidays blend, no story drops. But Joe can't keep calm. He knows this impending doom can drop any day or anytime. You and Joe have been going through the motions since your fight a few weeks back. You decide to pick up shifts just to keep busy and avoid him. When you and Joe are home simultaneously, the words you say to each other are few. He holds you in bed, and you both drift to sleep, ready to start the next day. Except for this morning, when Joe insisted on coming to your check-up. You laid down watching your OB put gel on your belly. Joe couldn't stop smiling as soon as he heard the heartbeat.

"Very healthy heartbeat. She sounds great." Your OB says, helping you up. She looks at Joe, who kisses your head and smiles.

"That's our baby girl in there." He whispers. Your heart melts, and all your passive aggressiveness toward each other goes out the window. Joe offers to take you to lunch, but. You tell him you have to go to work.

"You're seven months pregnant. Do you think going to work for almost 14 hours is okay?"

"I'm chair right now, and it's important I do everything I can. Besides, I'll see you at the charity gala, right?"

Joe kisses your hand and watches you walk away. You go to your office, and Mya stands outside, holding her phone up. You take it and look at the photo a fan took of Joe in the OB's office.

"Rumors are spreading fast about Nicki being pregnant now." Mya follows you into the office. You sit down reading blogs and tweets about the speculation. Joe has attended every appointment, so this was bound to happen soon.

"It's fine. I'm sure it will be okay. Not many people were there." You're lying. This will not be okay, and it's only a matter of time before the shit hits the fan. You don't have to think of something because your pager goes off, indicating an emergency—the rest of the day counties with crisis after crisis. When the day whines down, you finally shower and get ready for the gala. You attend the gala with Mya and work the room. Dr. Brian pulls you into a big hug.

"You've done amazing things. I knew I had left my department in the right hands. The housing you opened, I don't know how you finally got that knucklehead to donate so big but thank you."

"My charm and promised it would be named after him." You smile, rubbing your belly. Dr.Brian takes you to more donors, and you guys get a few people talking about donating to the department. Joe spots you across the room and stands there staring at you. It seems almost unbelievable how beautiful you are. Joe feels like he's starstruck. He wipes his palms on his pants and makes his way over.

"Hey." He whispers, looking down at you.

"How do you know The Joe Burrow?" Dr.Brain shakes his hand laughing. You shy away because Joe's eyes haven't left you.

"We went to school together."

"Childhood friends," Joe adds. Dr. Brain smiles between the two of you and excuses himself. Joe pulls you to the dance floor, and you sway with the music.

"You look so beautiful. I feel nervous. I don't know how to explain it." Joe whispers against your forehead. The smile you're wearing doesn't falter. Being in his arms feels safe and warm. Joe wants to kiss you so bad, but he controls himself. The smile on his face disappears as Nicole makes her way over. You feel a tap on your shoulder and turn around to Nicole, asking you to cut in.

"Nicole, what are you-"

"Nice to see you too, babe." Nicole cuts him off, and you step aside, letting her dance with him.

"Why are you here?"

"My job has someone covering the gala. I am still your girlfriend. Wouldn't it be weird if we didn't attend together?" She smiles up at him. Joe stops and looks over at you, standing to the side.

"Not after tonight. My publicist is telling the public about our breaking up. I found out what the stalker has over you."

"You're lying."

"It took some digging, but Helen probably has even more connections than you. You're a bully even after all these years. The girl that you damn near bullied to suicide, yeah, she spoke with Helen. If it got out, what a bully you were. Would that fit your pretty perfect image?"

Nicole is speechless.

"Didn't think so. Leak anything about Cheeks to the press, and you will hear from our lawyer."

"You can't do that to me. You cannot."

"I tried to end things peacefully, but you took it to another level. Cheeks trust you, but I don't. I know whoever the stalker is, is probably working for you. Goodbye, Nicole. I wish you the best." Joe kisses her cheek and walks over to you, taking your hand. Some people look confused, but Nicole smiles and storms off. You ask Joe about what that was about. Joe shrugs and tells you not to worry about it. So you leave it be. Nicole rushes out of the gala and drives home. There is no way in hell she is going out like that. She lets that night stew for days. Everyone in her path feels her rage, from the poor barista at Starbucks to her assistant.

"It's fucking ugly. If you think I'm wearing that bullshit, you have another thing coming! Find me something else!" She screams at her assistant. The girl nods her head and runs off. The door opens to Ariel, who runs the gossip portion of the news.

"I gave you everything you needed to leak the story. Do it now."

"Joe's pub-"

"Do you like your job? Or do you want to go back to writing stupid little articles? I can and will ruin your fucking career!"

"Okay. I'll do it, but I don't want to get sued and-"

"You let me handle that. Go do your job."

"Is this better?" Nicole's assistant asks, holding up a new outfit.

"Perfect. Everything is perfect." She giggles to herself.

You spent the morning assisting in the ED and finally had some downtime around six, so you went to the cafeteria. With Tate following behind you, complaining about his shift today. Mya joins you, taking her usual seat next to you. You leave them to go to the bathroom you miss being able to hold your pee for longer than 5 mins. You enter the break room, and all eyes seem to be on you.

"Do I have food on me?" You laugh, trying to look at your shirt. Mike turns the tv up, wearing a huge smile.

"Allegedly, Joe has been seeing her for at least a year. Nicole and Joe's reps have yet to make a statement. It seems like the endzone isn't the only thing he has been scoring in. That is all for Ariel's Gossip corner. Back to you guys." Ariel smiles, ending her segment. The camera pans back to Nicole, whose eyes are filled with tears s she wears a smile. Her costar, Malcom, coughs and brings the 6 pm news to a closing. Everyone in the room continues to stare at you.

"Holy fuck. I thought you were seeing Dr. Brian but this- this is so much better. What a fucking cunt." Mike says. Mya slaps him across the face. Your chest tightens, and you run out of the break room before everyone can question you.

Nicole wipes her tears as the camera cuts. People start asking her if she's okay and apologizing. Nicole shakes her head and rushes to her room. She closes the door and starts laughing.

"I win." She whispers to herself.

Joe stands on the sideline, watching the defense play against the Jet's offense. A water boy looks at him and then at his phone, then back a Joe. He whispers to the girl next to him. She pulls out her phone and does the same. Joe focuses back on the game until a benched player approaches him.

"You are the man." He says, slapping Joe's back. Joe thinks he's talking about the game and nods. The game ends with the last play. The Bengals are going to the playoffs. Joe does post-game interviews, and one comment catches his attention because your name is mentioned.

"What?" Joe asks the girl to repeat herself.

"Are you seeing her?"

"No comment." Helen grabs Joe dragging him to the locker room. The guys are celebrating while Helen breaks the news. Joe punches a locker and goes through his bag to find his phone. He has messages from everyone. The calls from his mother won't stop. But the only message that sends his blood boiling is Nicole's three worded message.

Sorry, Not Sorry.

A/N: Sorry for the cliffy! I'm so busy, so I wanted to get this part out first. Are my tags working idk if you guys get it when I stage you because sometimes I can't tag you? Next chapter will be the aftermath of everything! And we will get to see the stalker for sure! Who do you guys think the stalker is? The reblogs and comments and likes and the team Nicole omg I LOVE IT ALL! It has been so much fun writing this. Don't worry I will be doing the requests this week too! Until next time take care :)

#joe burrow x you #joe burrow fan fic #joe burrow fic #joe burrow x reader #joe burrow #joe burrow x y/n #joe burrow imagine #joe burrow smut #joe burrow fluff #second string updates #second string

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