#single dad James

[pandoras-boxs-world]

I'm just sitting around thinking about an au where single dad James Potter falls in love with Harry's primary school teacher, Regulus Black

[buckyalpine]

Barbie

Single dad Bucky x reader

Had this idea that I thought would be cuteeeee; Bucky's little baby seeing a real life Barbie doll for the first time.

Bucky's POV "Daddy lets go!!" Bella's tiny hand tugged on Bucky's much larger one, urging him towards the door, determination written all over her little face, "It'll start soon!"

"Alright peanut, I promise we won't be late" he chuckled, letting his daughter pull him with all her might, not wanting to miss a second of the new Barbie movie. He raised a brow at the strength his four year old had when she got excited. It was all Bella talked about since the first movie trailer came out and ever since, the house was filled with every shade of pink imaginable. Bella had marked the date on the fridge, counting down the days though Bucky decided to wait a few weeks before taking her so the crowd wouldn't be too much for her, wanting her to actually enjoy the movie.

"Ready peanut?" Bucky scooped her up in his arms, carrying her over to the car, adjusting the frilly pink tutu she had on so he could buckle her in the car seat. She had been previously unamused at his lack of outfits that would match Ken but ultimately settled on something much, much better.

"Ready daddy" She nodded, straightening out the matching tiara she had placed in on his head, hardly able to contain her little squeals of excitement, double checking the pink heart magnets she'd stuck on his arm. Bucky pecked her chubby cheek before getting into the drivers seat and pulling out the car, just as excited himself to have a relaxing day with his babygirl.

Your POV

You huffed, smoothing out the front of your dress, hyping yourself up in front of the mirror before slipping on your heels, taking them off and putting them back on again.

Then slipping one off before strapping it back on firmly in place.

There was no reason for you to be nervous.

You looked amazing. There was no doubt there. That shade of pink was radiant against your skin. Not a hair out of place. Your makeup was perfect. Yet your heart wouldn't stop beating just a smidge too fast. You deserved this. After a long, exhausting week you deserved a day to yourself to just feel good and relaxed. Yet your nerves were lit ablaze while you double checked your lipstick.

You were a grown ass woman, you didn't need to explain yourself to anyone as to why you were seeing this movie alone.

Dressed up in your cutest matching pink outfit.

You could do whatever you wanted...Is what you whispered to yourself before grabbing your purse and making a beeline towards to door before you changed your mind again. You pulled into the parking lot, glad your decided to wait a while to see this movie instead of going on opening night, noting it was a much quieter night, easing some of your nerves.

You went over to the snack counter, browsing the wide selection of candy, grabbing both sour candy and chocolate before joining the line to have your ticket scanned. You glanced down at your outfit once again, smoothing your a hand over your hair before straightening your shoulders.

You deserved this.

Bucky's POV

Bucky's heart swelled at the little clicks his daughters dress up heels made as they made their way up to the snack counter hand in hand; she was a ball of pink and frills with a tiny purse to finish the look off. She stumbled slightly, keeping up with his long strides, eyes wide taking in her surroundings along with the smell of fresh popcorn.

"What do you feel like getting jellybean" Bucky picked her up, letting her scan the rack of candy while he ordered a large popcorn and soda.

"This please daddy?" She pointed to a large swirly rainbow lollypop, waiting patiently when he set her back down making their way towards the ticket line. Her hand was still firmly holding onto his, a gasp slipping past her lips when her eyes landed on the best thing imaginable. Bucky looked up towards the direction his daughter was staring in, curious about the tiny gasp she let out and what had suddenly caught her attention.

The prettiest doll she'd ever seen. But in real life.

She couldn't take her eyes off her pretty pink dress or her matching heels. She was sure her favorite Barbie doll at home had the same shade of lipstick as hers. She clung onto Bucky's leg as they made their way over, tugging at his jeans to get his attention.

"Daddy! It's a Barbie doll" She whispered as he crouched down to her level, "She's so pretty" He could tell by her antsy squirming she wanted to talk to the real life Barbie boll, itching to take off at any moment. Bucky blinked, feeling his heart flutter, brows furrowing at why it was doing that, stop that.

But Bella was right.

She was pretty.

As soon as he saw who his daughter was pointing to, his own mind momentarily stopped working, only noticing her take off when he saw a blur of pink dash away, making a bee line towards the young woman.

Shit.

Your POV

"Hi" A small voice chirped behind you, leaving you confused when you didn't see anyone near by. Until you looked down. You smiled seeing the little girl behind you dressed in all pink, the tiara on her head slightly crooked, a lollypop sticking out of her purse. "You look so pretty"

"Thank you sweetheart" You cooed, gasping when a handsome stranger, clearly her father, grabbed her into his arms, shaking his head. He had a sparkly gold tiara on his head matching hers, flecks of pink glitter dusting his cheeks, some sprinkled onto his fluffy chestnut locks. You couldn't help the smile that spread onto your face when your eyes landed on the many magnets that were stuck onto his arm ranging from pink hearts to rainbows and the Barbie logo.

"Bella" He scooped her up, blowing a raspberry onto her cheek making her giggle, "You can't run off like that babygirl"

"Sorry daddy, wanted to see Barbie" She gave him her best pout, making you laugh, your own cheeks heating up when he looked over at you with a shy smile, matching hers.

Fuck, he was beautiful.

A whole ass DILF.

You shook your head, figuring he probably had a wife or girlfriend, there was no way he was single.

Bucky's POV

"She's really exited" Bucky said apologetically while you both had your tickets scanned, walking towards the same theatre room, butterflies fluttering in his tummy again.

"It's okay, this little princess made my day" You tried to sound light hearted though you were nervous meeting his soft baby blue eyes.

"Can she sit with us?" Bella pipped up before anyone sat own, giving her dad another dose of puppy eyes and a pout before turning to you and giving you the same treatment.

"Oh-uh-" Bucky figured you would've come with friends (maybe even a boyfriend...hopefully not...), though he didn't see anyone around when you were in line earlier. Either way, he was sure you wouldn't want to spend your movie day with a single dad and his very cute, albeit excited little girl. "I don't know baby-

"Actually, it's just me, I-don't mind" you smiled at the way Bella's eyes lit up along with an excited squeak, wiggling out of Bucky's hold to slip her hand into yours, pulling you to the middle of the row.

"Thank you" Bucky gave you a grateful smile, a tiny greedy part of him happy to sit with the sweet stranger his daughter was enamored with.

****

You adored watching the movie with Bella, leaning down whenever she'd whisper something, her hand often holding onto your pinky through most of the movie. You both made your way out of the theatre once the end credits began to roll, feeling a pang of something again when you noticed your cars happened to be parked side by side.

What were the chances-

Stop.

He probably has a partner, you scolded yourself internally while Bella gave you a sleepy hug before Bucky settled her into her car seat and shutting the door softly.

"Hi again" Bucky smiled bashfully, hoping the pink on his cheeks wasn't too obvious as he leaned against his car door, rubbing the back of his neck nervously. Why would someone as pretty and kind hearted as you want to go on a date with someone who came with baggage.....but maybe...

"Hi again" You nearly stumbled over your words, your heart hammering while he fidgeted with his phone, chewing his lip before speaking.

"I wanted to say thank you again. For today. I-I hope this isn't too forward but-uh-to say thank you properly-maybe coffee? If you don't like coffee then something else-dinner? Maybe a date-unless you don't want it to be a date-"

"I'd love to" you cut off his nervous rambling while Bucky let out the breath he was holding, giving you his phone for you to add your number in. He waited for you to get into your car, waving as you pulled out before getting into his own car, surprised to find Bella now wide awake with a cheeky smile on her face.

"Will we see Barbie again?" Bella eyed Bucky curiously while Bucky's phone pinged with a text message from you.

Can't wait to see you, keep the tiara on x

Bucky grinned, reaching behind to playfully tickle her foot before smiling at his phone again.

"I think we will"

[my-castles-crumbling]

embarrass - @jegulus-microfic - word count: 245 - thank you @beautyoftheships

"Mister Reg?" A small voice sounded from somewhere around Regulus's waist, and he looked down to see wide, green eyes.

"Yes, Harry?" he asked the four-year-old, who was patiently waiting to be picked up after preschool by his father.

"Can boys be beautiful?" the little boy asked, blinking up at him.

The question seemed innocent enough, so Regulus shrugged. "Sure! Boys can be whatever they want to be. Why do you ask?"

Harry grinned, his messy hair falling in his eyes. "Because Dad was telling Uncle Moony that you're beautiful."

Regulus gaped, unsure what to say to that. But before he could think of a suitable comment that wasn't 'Well, I think your father's fit as fuck so why don't you tell him to give me his number?' someone cleared their throat and both Regulus and Harry looked up.

"Dada!" Harry shrieked, throwing himself into his father's arms.

But James Potter was too busy looking at Regulus. "Any chance you'll forget he ever said that?" the man asked, looking thoroughly embarrassed.

But Regulus had never been one to let things go. "No," he stated, crossing his arms, only enjoying the look of horror on James's face a little bit. "We'll have to talk about it. A lot. Over coffee," he continued, trying to hide his smirk.

James's face lit up, and he juggled the very excitable boy that was now climbing his leg to take out his phone. "Of course," he smiled. "Coffee sounds beautiful."

[diazsdimples]

When I met you (Teen, 11.3k | Buddie)

Carrie perks up immediately and runs at full tilt towards the two men, crashing into Buck’s middle before he has a chance to properly brace himself. “Hi Daddy,” she grins, her chin digging into his tummy as she looks up at him. She then turns to Eddie, somewhat shyly, and holds out the dinosaur-themed bag she’s got in her hand. “Here’s Christopher’s bag, Mr. Diaz,” she says politely, and with a look of bewilderment, Eddie takes it from her. Buck feels immensely proud at his daughter’s impeccable manners. “Thank you, Carrie,” Eddie says, accepting the bag from her, “but you can call me Eddie. Mr. Diaz makes me sound old.” “Okay Mr. Eddie” Carrie replies, rocking back on the balls of her feet with a gleeful grin. Christopher appears beside the small group and leans into Eddie’s side, looking a little worn out from chasing after Carrie. “Carrie’s my best friend, Dad,” he explains to Eddie quietly and Carrie puffs out her chest, looking pleased as punch. “Can she come over and play at our house?” “Uhhh–” Eddie looks up at Buck, faltering a little and Buck quickly swoops in, recognising a fellow father with the inability to say no to his child.

OR - part 1 of the Single Dads AU.

Read more on AO3

[sergeantbarnessdoll]

*incoming fluffy prompt bomb*

Single dad!Bucky Barnes x neighbour!reader

The gif is when you win against Bucky in snakes and ladders and Bucky’s three year old son comes over to your side to celebrate with you.🤭🤭🤭

This is adorable and I love everything about this🥰

Let me write a little something…

“Looks like I win.” You say, grinning at Bucky.

“Looks like you do.” Bucky says with a smile.

Bucky’s 3 year old son, James Jr, slides off the couch and makes his way over to you. He hugs you and smiles wildly.

“Y/N won! Y/N won! Y/N won!” James Jr chants.

You and Bucky smile at his cuteness and let him have his fun.

“You need a prize.” James Jr says, looking up at you.

“It’s ok. I don’t need one.” You say.

“Yes you do!” He playfully argues and turns to his daddy. “Daddy, kiss her!” He says.

Your eyes widened and Bucky rose his eyebrows as the two of you stared at the little boy. Bucky shook his head and lightly laughs at his son’s cuteness.

“James is right.” Bucky stands up and walks to you. “You do need a prize.” He says.

Bucky gently pulled you up from the couch and held you close to him. One of his hands cupped your cheek while the other found its place on your waist. You felt your breath hitch in the back of your throat when Bucky leaned in. The next thing you know is you feel Bucky’s lips on yours. He gives you a sweet kiss. The kiss took your breath away. After a few seconds, Bucky pulled away and looked deep in your eyes. Meanwhile, James Jr is jumping up and down and clapping his little hands.

“I did it!” James Jr shouts. “I got daddy and Y/N to kiss!” He says.

You two looked down at James Jr to see him having a little celebration of his own.

“What?” You and Bucky say in unison.

“I says to aunt Natasha and aunt Wanda that I can get you and Y/N to kiss cause you think she’s pretty and they have to give me cookies!” James Jr explains

“Well played, son.” Bucky says, smiling down at his son.

[papa-evershed]

Rob James-Collier as Saul Silva FATE: THE WINX SAGA

[empath-bunny]

Single Dad!James who trusts with his life that you, bsf!reader, will protect and take care of baby Harry.

Single Dad!James who thinks you staying over to help take care of newborn Harry are sleepovers (he didn’t mature one bit).

Single Dad!James who doesn’t correct people when they think you are Harry’s mum.

Single Dad!James who video calls you whenever toddler Harry accomplishes a small milestone while you are at work.

Single Dad!James who kisses your cheek and Harry’s crown who’s in your arms while passing beside you.

Single Dad!James who doesn’t realise women are flirting with him because he only has eye for his family, Harry and you.

Harry who looks at you like you hung up the stars 🥹

Single Dad!James who suddenly starts getting weird feelings when watching you take care of Harry and do mundane things.

Single Dad!James who apparates (had to Google how to write that fucking word) desperately at wolfstar’s house and cries out to Sirius that he likes you.

Sirius who barks out laughing, saying he doesn’t like you, he loves you.

Single Dad!James who is very vocal and close with his friends so him telling you “I love you” is a regular thing,

Until he meant it differently.

He loved you.

He wants to be with you.

He wants you to be Harry’s mum.

_______

Wrote this at 2:40 AM, so it’s rushed, sorry for any mistakes! Please let me know so I can fix them.

Tomorrow’s my first day back at uni and I wanted to write anything and get it out there, rip the bandaid off. I feel like a pop star bc one post I made got 50 reblogs!!! Like holy shit imagine 50 people in an auditorium listening to me talk shit!!!! Last time that happened I was in the theatre and I forgot the closing word of the play. I improvised, ofc.

So, Dad!james is currently the hot topic on my feed, you all know I’m a hoe for that combo, I had to put in my two cents, I’m totally projecting.

Constructive criticism is well received here! Actually, it is begged for. How am I going to improve if people don’t tell me where I fuck up?

[wizard-on-whales]

Acceptance

Angst and Fluff

You are James' daughter and you're struggling with yourself because you've recently come to the conclusion that you like women. But given James' past actions, you are terrified to tell him

Warnings: Angst, talk of homophobia, wlw, James acts like a deer in headlights

✭-----------------------------✭

You lay on your bed with your face buried into your pillow as your body wrecks out another sob. You didn't know how you were gonna tell him….or if you could. You knew your dad was a more “traditional” man and his reputation before you were born was not seen as an accepting one. Countless videos of him yelling slurs and saying other homophobic things could easily be found with the click of a button. So how the hell were you, his precious little girl, supposed to tell him you like women. Another sob escapes from your lips as you reach over and grab the lion plush he had given you years ago. It was his when he was younger and the smell of his cologne often lingered on it. You clutched it tightly like you did when you were a toddler, crying over nothing in particular. But this time you were crying over something huge, something that could determine your future and the relationship you had with your father going forward. As you curl into a ball and bring the lion to your chest, inhaling the familiar scent of your dad, there's a knock on your bedroom door.

“Dinners ready,” Your dad opens the door to tell you but his heart quickly clenches in his chest as he sees you curled up and crying. Despite the fact that you were almost 17, he still saw his little peanut, his little 5 year old girl who thought she could do anything.

“Hey, hey, sweetheart what's wrong,” He speaks quietly, stepping forward to sit on the edge of the bed. You quickly wipe away your tears and mumble a small “nothing” before trying to hide your mascara streaked face into your pillow.

“It's clearly not nothing baby, did something happen at school? Or did I do something? You've hardly talked to me the past few days,” He gently wipes a few strands of hair away from your face before resting his hand on your shoulder, his thumb rubbing back and forth to try and soothe you. Despite being upset over how he would react, the action did sooth you a little like it always had. Your heart jumps to your throat as he asks if it's his fault you're crying, you let out another sob, not being able to hold back. You felt awful about crying because of him and you felt guilty for not hiding it better.

“Is it something I did? You gotta tell me sweetheart so I can fix it,” He gives you a concerned look, clearly worried about how he fucked up if he upset you this much.

“I can't,” You sob quietly, trying to wipe your tears away as they fall quickly down your cheeks. He tries to help you wipe a few off your face but you get to them before he can. He rests his hand on your back, rubbing it slightly as he listens to your words.

“Why can't you tell me? I won't be mad or anything, baby, I promise,” His own eyes were glossy now as he helplessly watched his baby girl cry, clutching his old stuffy.

“You won't love me anymore,” You let out another full body sob as your words slip out, hiccups coming along with it as you bury your face back into your pillow. You hear your Dad let out a strand of “shhs” trying to calm you down as he attempts to pull you into his lap. He cradles you in his arms, his hand still rubbing your back as your tears stain his shirt.

“Why would you think that sweetheart?!? There's absolutely nothing you could do that would make me not love you. You're my whole world and I love you more than anything,” His own tears slip out of his eyes as he speaks, trying to calm you down. He tried so hard all your life to make you feel safe and loved, desperate for you to never have to feel like he did when he was a kid, but as he cradles your sobbing body he feels like he failed.

“I have a girlfriend,” You sob, your words muffled and quiet as you try to hide behind your lion stuffed animal. You feel and hear him let out a small chuckle as strokes your hair.

“Baby, why do you think I'd be so mad about you having a boyfriend,” Your heart jumps to your throat as he says boyfriend, clearly having misheard you.

“No! Girlfriend,” You lift your face away from him so that he can hear you as you cut him off. You see his face drop as he registered what you said. You push away from him, crawling back to your spot on your bed with your back turned to him. He stays quiet for far too long and with each second that passes the more you feel anxiety pooling in you. His hand gently rests on your shoulder again, causing you to jerk at first.

“Honey…I know I've, well…I-I don't really know what to say,” He says quietly, his voice defeated. A few more silent tears rolling down your cheeks as you fear the worst.

“You don't have to say anything,” You mumble, your hands fiddling with each other as you pick at the skin around your fingernails.

“No, I do have to say something. You're clearly upset over this. I know I haven't always been the greatest person…especially when I was younger but I'm willing to change that, especially for you sweetheart. I-well...I don't know much about, uhm…gay stuff…But if you give me a chance I can try,” He stutters over his words, clearly trying to find the right thing to say as he attempts to comfort you. He pushes your shoulder down so that you're on your back and facing him. He gives you a small smile, wiping more tears off of your face.

“What's her name?” He asks you for your girlfriend's name. The small action causes a smile to form on your face as he seems genuinely interested in knowing. He gives you another soft smile back as you tell him her name.

“She plays guitar like you,” You say quietly, looking away from him and continuing to fiddle with your fingers. He grabs your hand to stop you, knowing you have a bad habit of picking your skin when you're nervous.

“Yeah? I bet she's not as good as me though,” He jokes, trying to get a laugh out of you. You smile again, hitting him on the shoulder.

“She's better,” He pretends to act offended by that, clutching his hand over his heart and letting out a fake sob.

“How dare you,” He fake cries, trying to hold back a smile as you let out a small laugh. He looks back at you, wiping the excess tears off of your face.

“There is absolutely nothing you can do that will ever make me not love you, okay? Don't ever forget that,” He leans forward and places a kiss on your forehead as he speaks gently. You nod your head in understandment.

“Now c'mon, we don't want dinner to get cold. Maybe you can invite her over next time,” He stands up from the edge of your bed and holds his hand out to help you up. You take it and peel yourself out of your sheets, following him downstairs to see whenever monstrosity he's made for dinner this time.

✭-----------------------------✭

[boltlightning]

deadfall // chapter 1

Captain Elizabeth Swann and her dragon Scylla return to adventure through the Caribbean at the behest of Cutler Beckett. The sea itself is rife with danger with the fabled kraken on the hunt, yet the biggest threat to Elizabeth is Lord Beckett himself. ✦ potc + temeraire crossover, multi-chapter wip. here there be dragons

"I come to you with a proposition, Captain, one for which the Admiralty have already given implicit support. You see, I have recently been appointed to the Royal Commission for Antilles Trade and Protection," Beckett says.

Elizabeth pauses. “Antilles? The Caribbean?”

“Indeed. The charter grants the commission extraordinary powers both governmental and military.”

“Forgive my candor, Lord Beckett: such a powerful charter granted to a man of the Corps is rather unprecedented, is it not? Titled or otherwise, you bear our stain.”

They walk facing the corridor, not each other, but Elizabeth glimpses the corner of his mouth tug into a smile. “Oh, we each of us bring our own unique talents to and beyond the Corps: I, my ties with the Company, and you, a genteel upbringing. However low the Corps’ standing in society, expectations are removed where prejudices take their place. It grants a certain…fluidity, to influence those where we can.”

“When you can get your foot in the door, you mean. Or talon.”

“Yes,” Beckett agrees, “some would say I have an extraordinary military power already. You remember Augusta?”

He gestures with his walking cane. In the other corner of the courtyard is Augusta, Beckett’s Parnassian, mottled black-and-cream, a heavyweight dragon with talons each as long as a man is tall. Elizabeth thinks of Scylla, half an acre away in her cozy little clearing, a fraction of Augusta’s size, and her throat involuntarily constricts.

“Then what is it you need from me, Lord Beckett?” Elizabeth asks. “It seems you’ve all the power you require.”

“This mission requires your singular expertise. And your discretion is appreciated.”

(read here on ao3!)

[flowxrtimmy]

Through The Storm (n.h.)

when it’s your first thunderstorm in your new house, single dad Niall comes by to check on you, and you end up getting to know each other a lot more than anticipated.

You’ve thought about this for what seemed like forever, finally being on your own and living in your own house. It wasn’t too big, but not too small, and was located in a decent neighborhood, not too far from downtown. You didn’t even need your parent’s help, you’ve been saving so much since you started working as a registered dietician at a nearby nursing home, and made a serious commitment to stop eating out and spending unnecessary money, and with a strict budget you were finally able to get out of your crappy apartment and into an actual house. Plus, you were also closer to work with this new place, so that would help ease up on gas money. However, that wasn’t even the best part. Your neighbor was really friendly. His name is Niall, and he has a 4 year old son, Andrew, who was the cutest kid you’ve ever seen. Niall, though, was so fucking hot, there was no other way to say it. He was fit, always smelled amazing, always dressed nice, and if he looked that hot while being presentable, you could only imagine what he looked like just rolling out of bed. In fact, that’s what you imagined most nights before going to sleep. Him laying next to you, in just his underwear and a shirt, his hands running all over your body, it may have caused the habit of you reaching for a toy before going to sleep, but he didn’t need to know that.

Currently, you were sitting on your couch, trying to catch up on SVU when you heard a large thunder clap boom, scaring you out of your spot. A storm?! How? Your Alexa didn’t warn you, and upon checking your phone, there weren’t any notifications from your three different weather apps. How could it just appear like that? You looked out the window, and noticed it was indeed very dark out. You took a deep breath, and tried to focus on the show. Usually, storms didn’t bother you, but this was your first storm while living alone. At the apartment, there was always someone to go to, you did have pretty decent neighbors, but now it was just you. You could hear the rain start to come down, and with the sky lit up with lighting, followed by loud roars of thunder. You whimpered to yourself, standing up when the lights began to flicker before finally going out.

You tried to stay calm, making a mental note to not open the fridge, and went to your kitchen, grabbing your lighter and lighting the candle on the kitchen table, then walking to the living room and lighting the one in there as well. You winced at another loud clap of thunder, sitting back down on the couch, setting the lighter on the small coffee table in front of you. You could get through this, it was just a spring storm, everything would be okay. Having calmed yourself down a bit, you sat back on the couch, listening to the rain. However, that didn’t last long when a knock sounded at the door, making you jump. Oh my god, you thought to yourself, someone’s about to kill me. Despite your inner thoughts, you stood and slowly crept to the window, peeking out to see Niall on your front steps. You let out a sigh of relief and quickly walked to the door, opening it. “Niall! It’s raining cats and dogs out there!” You said with a relieved laugh, stepping aside to let him in.

“Hey, love! You can say that again.” He steps in, taking his shoes off, which had gotten almost soaked during his short walk over to your place. “Man, didn’t even see this one coming.” He said as you shut the door behind him.

“That’s what I was thinking, no warnings or anything. Can I get you anything? I can’t open the fridge, but I have water bottles that I haven’t put away yet.” This was your first time having any kind of company, and you felt bad that you couldn’t be a proper host.

“Oh no lass, I’m alright, but thank you.” He smiled at you. “Just wanted to come by and check on you, Andrew is at his mom’s right now, and I know this is the first big storm since you moved in.”

Your heart fluttered, he was concerned about you, and braved the storm to make sure you were okay. “That’s so sweet of you, you must be cold!” You grabbed a blanket from your couch, wrapping it around him. “Please, have a seat!”

“Well of course, honestly it gets pretty lonely without Andrew as well, also you’re too sweet.” He smiled as you led him to the couch, the two of you sitting down. It was still somewhat light enough that you could see where you were going, but that wouldn’t last long. “The first big storm of the season, actually.”

The fact that he admitted that he gets lonely hurts your heart, and you’re glad he decided to come over. “Oh yeah? Well I’m grateful you wanted to come over just to make sure I was okay, it means a lot to me.” It really did, you had relaxed now that he was here, and you definitely felt safer.

“Of course, but uh, that’s actually not the only reason that I came by.”

You looked at him curiously, raising a brow. “Oh? Well, what else can I do for you?”

“Well, I was just curious, how old are ya, lass?”

You blushed a bit at the nickname he’s called you twice now, but smiled. “I’m 23, 24 next month.”

“Oh, so not much younger than me, I just turned 30 in September.”

He was only 30?! You were surprised, not that he looks old or anything, but damn he was actually somewhat close to your age. “Oh wow, yeah only 6 years older, not too horrible.” You felt a lot more confident now, and you were itching to make a move, and you had a feeling that he wanted to do the same. “So, no electricity, just us and these candles.” You set a hand on his knee, not taking the time to think about it, you just wanted to take action.

He glanced at his knee then up at you. “You’re right, it is only us, and it seems like we have the same idea.” Without another word, he pulled you to him, crashing his lips against yours. You kissed him back as he set his hands on your lower back, you wrapping your arms around his neck as you two kissed. The thunder roared as Niall gently pulled back, looking up at you. “I’m sorry, I had-”

You didn’t let him finish, and kissed him again. He kissed back, his hands running down to the hem of your shirt. You pulled back, raising your arms up as he pulled it up, and tossing it aside once it was off. “Fuck, I’ve thought about this for so long, Niall.” You moved to the floor, smiling up at him. “Just, on the floor is how I’ve been imagining it.”

He looked down at you with a smirk, and chuckled. “That sounds like a great idea.” He pulled his own shirt off before joining you on the floor, wrapping his arm around your waist and pulling you close to him. “God, you look so fucking good right now, and we don’t even have everything off yet, petal.” He ran his hands up your back, unclipping your bra, and pulling it off in one fluid motion. His eyes went wide and he smiled, gently laying you back and leaning in, taking one of your nipples in his mouth, gently teasing it with his tongue.

Fuck, he knew what he was doing, and it only made you feel like you had to tell him the truth before things went any further. “Ni, hold on a sec.” You watched as he pulled his head back, looking at you with concern.

“What’s wrong, petal? You’re comfortable, right?”

“Oh absolutely, trust me you’d know if I wasn’t.” You took a breath. “This is just my first time doing anything sexual.” It was true, throughout college you did go to parties and such, but never went home with anybody or anything like that, and honestly, you hadn’t felt like you were ready. However, you felt something different with Niall since the day you met him, and deep down you knew that you wanted him as your first time, it was only just now becoming real.

He was quiet for a moment, then smiled. “So I’m your first time for like, anything?”

You nodded. “Yeah, but like, I’ve used toys before, if that counts” You let out a light laugh.

“Yeh, toys can help you adjust to having something inside you, but I’ll still be super gentle, and we don’t even have to do that, we can start light with fingering to get things going, how’s that sound?” He gently set his hands on your breasts, smiling down at you.

You thought about it for a moment, and smiled. “Yeah, that would be great, actually.” You loved that he was willing to help get you comfortable with everything, you had no reason to worry about him not wanting someone inexperienced.

Giving your breasts a gentle squeeze, he nodded. “You’re in good hands, lass.” He ran his hands down your sides, pulling your sweats down along with your panties, pulling them off your legs and setting them on the couch.

“You gotta catch up, Ni.” You joked while sitting up, undoing his button on his pants before pulling them down his legs, smiling at his red briefs as he helped you pull his pants off. You hooked your fingers around the waistband before pulling his briefs down, his erection now in full view, and the first time you’ve ever seen one in person. You let him take over getting his underwear off as you looked at his dick, shocked. “Woah.”

He smirked, stroking it once his hands were free. “Glad ya like it, petal. Now lay back, yeah?”

You obeyed, laying back on the carpet, bending your knees, watching as Niall gently opened your legs. “I’m excited, Ni.”

“Good, you should be, m’gonna make you feel so good, lass.” He looked around before looking at you. “Wouldn’t happen to have lube, would ya?”

“Um, I might have to check, it’s been a minute since I’ve used it on myself.” You blushed as you admitted your toy use. You stood up, smiling down at him. “I’ll be right back, unless you want to come with me?”

“I’ll be right here, love.” He said with a smile. If he was being honest, he liked the idea of having sex by candlelight on your living room floor, and feared that going with you would have the opportunity to change locations. As you checked your bedroom for the lube, he looked around your living room, and smiled. It was starting to grow darker outside and the room was lit by the candles. He felt a very romantic vibe, and was so excited to be the first one to give you this experience.

You walked back in with the lube in your hand, holding it up triumphantly. “Got it!” You sat back on the floor, handing it to him with a smile. “I’m kind of nervous, but I’m definitely ready.”

He gently laid you back with a chuckle, leaning down and pressing a kiss against your forehead. “I promise you’re in good hands, just relax, lass.” He opened your legs again, gently rubbing your inner thighs. “You have such a pretty pussy, y’know that?” He opened the lube, squeezing some out onto his fingers. “Take a deep breath, petal.”

You obeyed, taking a deep breath, but you tensed up a bit when you felt him gently insert a finger. “Sorry, Ni.” You took another breath, relaxing on your exhale as he began to push it in and out slowly.

“S’alright petal, just relax.” He slowly picked up the pace, moving his finger back and forth. “You’re doing so well, such a good lass, aren’t ya?” He asked, slowly inserting another finger.

“I am, Niall. So good for you.” You rested your head on the floor, letting out a soft moan as he rocked his two fingers back and forth, and you couldn’t believe that this is what you’ve been missing out on. “Fuck, faster please?” You asked, wanting to stay polite while also getting him to pick up the pace.

“Atta girl, asking nicely.” He picked up the pace, smirking down at you. “Glad you’re enjoyin’, petal.”

You could feel your orgasm building up, and you knew it wouldn’t be much longer. “I think I’m close, Ni.’ Once you said that, he pulled his fingers out, causing you to let out a soft whine at the emptiness. “Ni?” You ask, looking up at him with confusion to see him stroking his dick.

“Don’t worry petal, just getting ready, lay back down,” He set a hand on your shoulder, gently pushing you back into a lying position. “I don’t have a condom, but don’t worry, I’ll be sure to pull out, sound good?”

“Yeah, I like that idea. I’m so ready for you, Niall.” You shut your eyes again as he lined up with your entrance, slowly pushing in. You went to tense up, but remembered that it wouldn’t help. You let out a gasp when he pushed in, and he stopped for a moment, looking down at you with concern. It took you a minute to adjust to his size, but you eventually gave him an approving nod, and he began to move again.

“Fuck petal, yer so fuckin’ tight, you sure you’re okay?” He asked as he picked up one of his hands, using it to run his fingers through your hair. Once you nodded, he smiled. “Alright lass, I’m only gonna go half, make it a bit more comfortable for ya, is that alright?’

You thought for a moment, then nodded. “Yeah, that’s probably best, it’s okay with me.” You loved that he was so open with communication, it showed you that he truly did have your best interest in mind, and that he wanted to make you as comfortable as possible. Once he was in, he gave you a nod.

“Alright petal, tell me when you’re ready.”

You took a few moments to adjust to his size before nodding. “I’m ready, Ni.”

With that, he started gently thrusting in, pulling back, and thrusting in again. A mix of pain and pleasure coursed through your body as you laid your head back on the carpet, looking at the glow on the ceiling from the candles. By now, the sun was mostly down, and the street was dark from the outage. The only thing lighting this session was the soft glow of candlelight, and you thought that was sexy as well. “Can you please speed up a bit?” You asked, shutting your eyes and letting out a moan when he did just that. You weren’t expecting it, you thought he was going to say something first. “Fuck, just like that, Ni!” You brought your arms up, setting your hands on his back as he pumped into you, looking at him and not breaking eye contact. God, he looked so fucking beautiful like this. You couldn’t help but set a hand on the back of his head,and pulled him in for a kiss while he kept thrusting. As you kissed, you could feel your orgasm building once more, and you broke the kiss. “I’m close again, Ni.”

“So am I baby, let go, I want you to cum on my dick.” He kissed your neck, picking up the pace just a tad.

The slight change of speed was enough to send you over the edge, and pleasure waved through your body as you hit your high, finishing all over his dick. You heard him let out a loud moan, followed by a loud “fuck!”, and he quickly pulled out, adjusting himself so his dick was over your chest, groaning as the cum shot out, covering your breasts and chest. It was hot to watch him spilling out onto you, you would definitely remember it.

As you both came down from your highs, you looked at Niall with a smile. “That was so good, Ni. I loved every second.”

He smiled down at you before laying on the floor next to you. “Glad you enjoyed it, lass. Do you want to go clean yourself up, or do you want to maybe taste it?”

You shook your head. “No, I want the first time I taste you to be from sucking you off, so why don’t I go clean up, and we can try some other things?”

Niall’s eyes lit up, and he nodded. “Yes, absolutely! Go on, petal, why don’t I come with you this time and you can show me the bedroom?”

Hearing that made you excited, and you stood up, pulling him up with you. “I think that’s a great idea.” You quickly blew out the lit candles before grabbing a flashlight and leading Niall to your bedroom.

You weren’t afraid of thunderstorms anymore.

A/N: hi everyone! Currently in the middle of a 24 hour readathon, but taking a break to post this for yall! please enjoy, i love the single dad aspect hehe.

all the love x

[incorrecttonyxeveryonequotes]

[phone ringing]

Natsha: Yes?

Harley: It's us. Is Tony there with that guy Rhodey set him up with?

Natasha: They're here. And it's not good. Stephen is super-hot.

Peter: Oh my God, I hate Stephen so much.

Harley: Natasha, you and Bucky need to ruin this date. Just spill their drinks on them. Oh, tell lies about Tony. Just do whatever you need to get rid of this guy.

Natasha: On it. [hangs up, to Bucky] Get me a burger!

[Avengers Tower]

Harley: We need to find Steve and make him do something about his feelings.

Peter: He went to that TaskRabbit gig. We have no idea where he is.

Harley: He was walking. He can't be that far.

[mackenzielovee]

gray area (1) — bucky barnes

summary — you meet your new neighbor, Bucky, along with his friends and his son.

wc — 4k

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You stand in the middle of your new driveway, staring up at the townhome that you now hold the keys to. You’d signed your name on the dotted line last week, and although it feels like forever since then, a part of you can’t believe it’s actually happening. 

“Still not sure why you’re so against moving in with me,” Natasha, your best friend, grumbles as she grabs another box out of the truck of your car, “I mean, yeah, there’s a few bad things about my apartment complex, but—”

“Your next door neighbor shot his girlfriend last week,” you argue, then add, “And, half of the people that live there are selling drugs!”

“Okay,” Natasha rolls her eyes, “One, that girl was a bitch. She also survived, so it’s fine. And, honestly, Y/N, everyone is selling drugs these days.”

“I’m not,” you reply, sticking your tongue out at her. 

“Right. You’re too much of a workaholic to be selling — or doing — drugs, anyway. I’m surprised they haven’t paged you—”

“Oh!” you exclaim, “I actually should go check my work phone. Can you get the rest of the boxes out?”

Being a nurse in the critical care unit of one of the best hospitals in your state, you have no choice but to be constantly thinking about your job. Natasha, who runs her own company, understands your need to be available 24/7, although she rarely expresses it. She thinks you hold yourself too accountable, but you disagree. 

Being responsible is the reason you’re able to afford to live on your own at twenty four. Being responsible has landed you a great job, salary, and benefits. Sure, you’ve had to sacrifice to get it, and Natasha thinks you’re lonely, but you’re happy for the most part. 

You check your phone and find nothing, then breathe in a happy breath. That means you’ll get to spend the remainder of the day unpacking and moving in. The boxes are lining the walls and starting to feel overwhelming; the clutter too much for you to handle.

Natasha comes strolling in a few minutes later, holding nothing but a lamp in her hand. You raise a brow, and she smirks. 

“Seriously? That’s all you could carry?” you tease. 

She shrugs, “I found some reinforcements.”

Before you can ask what she means, two men come strolling into your living room, both with boxes in their arms. Your jaw falls as Natasha laughs beside you, shamelessly checking them out as their muscles flex against their tight tee shirts. 

“Where do you want ‘em, Natasha?”

Natasha whips her head over to you, “Babe?”

You swallow when both men look over to you. Up and down their eyes go, taking in your sundress and curled hair before respectfully looking back up at you. They smirk when you stutter under their gazes, then point to the free corner of the living room. 

“Um, over here is fine,” you say, “Thank you so much, I didn’t—”

“It’s okay, Y/N,” Natasha interrupts, tugging on your elbow, “I already told them how we needed two big, strong guys to help us.”

The blonde sets his boxes down first, then steps forward and extends a hand. You give him a friendly, shy smile and shake it, ignoring the way his large hand engulfs yours. 

“I’m Steve,” he says, “One of the big, strong guys your friend recruited.”

Your smile widens, “Hi, Steve. Thank you very much for being willing to help.”

“No problem, I—”

The other man shoves Steve’s shoulder, then grins at you and extends a hand of his own. 

“Sam Wilson,” he informs you, squeezing your hand, “It’s such a pleasure. We’ve been wondering who was gonna take this place.”

“Now we know,” Steve cuts in, “So, what’s your—”

Your phone buzzes on the counter, and before you even realize what you’re doing, you turn and rush to it. 

“Ouch,” Sam whispers, nudging Steve’s chest before turning to Natasha, “Boyfriend?”

“Worse,” Natasha rolls her eyes, “Job.”

“That’s why I retired years ago,” Sam grins, “Right, Cap?”

Steve’s eyes haven’t left you yet; watching as you slump your shoulders when you realize the alert is just a routine message from the hospital. 

“Let’s go get the rest of the boxes,” Steve grunts, grabbing Sam by the shirt collar. 

Natasha follows the men outside, and after a minute, you do, too. Steve is in the middle of pulling another box from the trunk when you appear outside, dress swaying in the slight breeze. Sam elbows Steve in the chest when he catches him looking, and the men exchange a silent glare before getting back to work. 

“You guys really don’t have to do this,” you gush, placing a gentle hand on Steve’s bicep to stop him, “It’s okay, we can handle it. It’s only a few more, right, Nat?”

Natasha smirks, then shrugs innocently, “I don’t see the harm in letting them help, Y/N. You can always thank them properly later.”

Steve blushes at Natasha’s comment, but doesn’t play into the innuendo in the slightest. Instead, he turns toward you and gives you a gentle smile. 

“We really don’t mind,” he says. 

“Yeah, and he speaks for both of us, now,” Sam grunts. 

You laugh and drop your hand from Steve’s arm as if to give him silent permission to continue. Just as his hands reach around the next box, all of you hear the loud, screeching voice of a toddler. 

“Jamie incoming!”

Sam turns with just enough time to catch the four year-old launching himself into his arms, grinning from ear to ear at the promise of a hug from his uncle. 

“What’s goin’ on, Jay-Man?” Sam asks, gripping the boy tight. 

“Nothin’,” he smiles. 

“I don’t believe you for a second,” Sam laughs, “Where’s your—”

“Jamie, you’ve gotta put shoes on before you run outside. You know better.”

You swallow at the sight of the man stepping off the porch of the house next door and into the grass, where he eyes the toddler resting in Sam’s arms. He’s wearing gray sweatpants and a tee shirt, sports messy brown hair, and has stubble that you’d bet is only there because he hasn’t gotten around to shaving. 

“Relax, Buck, he’s a kid,” Sam replies, “Tell him, Jay.”

“I’m a kid,” Jamie repeats, grinning widely. 

The man, the one who left the house following the boy, lets his eyes travel from his friends to you. He gives you a gentle smile and you do the same back to him, feeling your stomach twist and turn the longer his eyes remain on you. 

“Aww!” Natasha squeals, stepping over to Sam and Jamie, “How old is he?”

“He’s four,” Sam states proudly, “You think he’s cute? He’s got my eyes, doesn’t he?”

You continue to stare, knowing you should stop but completely unable to. When his eyes — those devastatingly blue eyes — leave yours to travel down your body, you swallow. You hope he likes what he sees, but you don’t question where that thought comes from. The male gaze has never been one you’ve longed for, but right now, you can’t remember why. 

His jaw ticks as he breaks into a smile, raising a hand and conducting a small, shy wave. You bite down on your bottom lip to conceal your own grin, waving back. 

“So, he’s your son?” Natasha’s voice draws you back into reality.

Sam shrugs, “I mean, I take care of the rugrat, you know what I mean?”

Natasha nods, her eyes moving toward Steve when he scoffs, “Jamie is not Sam’s kid.”

As if to prove it, Jamie starts to squirm in Sam’s grasp, then makes grabby hands as he reaches for Bucky. 

“Daddy,” he frowns, “Is it snack time?”

Bucky nods and steps forward, reaching out to collect Jamie from Sam, who sighs, now that his cover has been blown. 

“C’mere, buddy,” Bucky says as he takes hold of his son, who immediately cuddles himself into his dad, “We can have a snack if you’re hungry.”

Your heart rate seems to speed up at the image of a father caring for his son so outright — something you never experienced so openly. Shyly, his eyes find yours as he adjusts his son in his hold, giving you a more forced, pained smile. You try to smile back in hopes of telling him that you find Jamie to be cute; that you’re happy to have them next door. 

“C’mon, Sarge, you gotta meet the new neighbor, first,” Sam lectures, pointing over to you, “This is Y/N, even though she never actually introduced herself to us. Y/N, this is Sergeant James Buchanan Barnes, and his son, Jamie.”

“It’s just Bucky,” he immediately corrects, giving you another small smile as he offers his free hand out to you, “Nice to meet you.”

“Nice to meet you, too,” you reply, holding his gaze for a beat too long before your eyes catch on the little boy in his arms, “And it’s very nice to meet you, Jamie.”

He grows shy in his father’s arms and hides in his chest, earning a laugh from both you and Bucky. 

“Sorry,” Bucky says quietly, “He’ll open up eventually.”

You shake your head, “No need to apologize. He’s very cute.”

As if the compliment was meant for him, Bucky’s cheeks grow pink. To try and conceal it, he looks down at Jamie and tries to get him to talk, but the boy refuses. 

You try to think of something to say; a way to start up a conversation with Bucky, but Steve steps behind you — close enough that you can feel his body heat through your dress — and clears his throat. 

“Want me to take the kid for a snack, Sarge?” Steve questions, noting Bucky’s blushing cheeks. 

“Can we play superheroes, too?” Jamie asks his uncle, perking up. 

“Of course, dude. We can fly on the trampoline and everything.”

Jamie grins and immediately reaches for his uncle, changing grips yet again. Steve laughs and grabs hold of the toddler, then looks down at you. 

“Good to meet you, Y/N,” he says politely, then steps away and pats Bucky on the back, “You got this.”

Bucky’s face burns under the not-so-quiet encouragement from his best friend. Sam and Natasha grab more boxes from the car while simultaneously shamelessly flirting, which leaves you and Bucky outside in the cool air, alone. 

“Sorry about them,” Bucky says quickly, “They make quite the first impression.”

You nod in agreement, “They do. Do all of you live over there?”

Bucky’s eyes widen and he shakes his head quickly, so quickly that you try not to laugh. 

“God, no. The guys just come over to help me take care of Jamie. It’s, uh, just me over there. And Jamie, obviously.”

You laugh at the way he shakes his head, trying to collect his thoughts and stop himself from rambling. When he sees you laughing, he relaxes and even offers a chuckle at himself.

“Anyway,” he changes the subject, “What brings you to the neighborhood?”

“New job,” you answer proudly, “I’m a nurse at West County General.”

He cocks up a brow, “No kidding. Bet that keeps you busy.”

“It sure does,” you agree, “But, it’s really rewarding. I love it.”

He smiles as you smile, and when you see the tips of his ears grow pink, your grin widens. Sam and Natasha emerge from the house then, and they seem to burst whatever bubble you and Bucky have formed for yourself. 

“I should check on Jamie,” he mumbles, already taking a step back, “It was nice to meet you, Y/N. Welcome to the neighborhood.”

You grin, giving him a shy wave, “Thank you, Bucky.”

He returns your smile and wave, letting it linger between the two of you for a second too long before he turns and hurries back inside his house. 

When you turn around, Sam and Natasha are leaning up against your car, standing a little too close and looking a little too friendly. Clearing your throat loudly, you earn your best friend's gaze. 

“We should be getting ready, huh?” you ask her, giving her a subtle eyebrow raise. 

She sighs, “Yes. Thanks for the help, Sam. Hope we see each other again soon.”

He winks at her, then gives you a warm smile and a nod before taking a few steps back, inching toward Bucky’s house. 

“Nice to meet you, ladies,” he calls, offering a wave before he turns his back and heads away. 

“God, he’s so hot,” Natasha groans, “Like, did you see those muscles?” 

You chuckle and grab her, pulling her toward your new home, “Come on. Wanda’s gonna be pissed if we’re late.”

“Oh, who cares,” Natasha mumbles, but follows your lead, anyway. 

     The bar that Wanda planned for the three of you to go to is loud and crowded by the time you and Natasha arrive. To celebrate your new move and career, Wanda demanded a night out with you. Naturally, Natasha caught wind of the plans and invited herself — which was fine with you, because you always feel safer having her around while you’re drinking. Wanda, on the other hand, wasn’t wild about the inclusion of your best friend. They put up with each other, but they aren’t fans. And to you, it’s obvious. 

“Y/N!” Wanda squeals, “What do you think of this place? I thought it was cool, kinda has a retro vibe to it.”

“So retro,” Natasha quips, offering Wanda a smug smile. 

You nudge Natasha in the side and look around, taking the place in. It reminds you of Wanda in a way that you’d expect her to like it,  but you don’t necessarily care one way or another. A new area means new bars, new restaurants, and you know you have to figure out what you like and what you don’t. 

“It’s nice,” you smile, “Thank you so much for setting this up.”

“Of course,” she beams, “Let me get us a round. They have a killer lime mojito.”

“Oh, bummer,” Natasha pouts, “I’m actually on this new no-lime diet. Mind getting me a vodka soda?”

Wanda takes a calculated breath, “Sure. Be right back.”

You snort as soon as Wanda disappears and turn around to Natasha, who is smirking proudly at herself. When she catches your raised eyebrows, she feigns innocence and shrugs her shoulders. 

“What?” she teases, “It’s a real diet.”

“Mhm,” you hum, “Sure it is.”

“It is!” she laughs, then nudges you over to the two available barstools. You set your purse down on the bar and Natasha sits while you remain standing, not wanting Wanda to feel left out, “It’s new. I’m on a no-lime, all-new neighbor Sam diet.”

You let out a loud laugh, “Oh, right. He doesn’t even live over there, you know.”

“He doesn’t?”

“No,” you shake your head, “Bucky told me—”

“Bucky told you?” she gasps, grabbing your arms, “Oh, tell me exactly what Bucky told you.”

You huff, “Stop teasing me.”

“I’m not!” she protests, “I just want to know what your sexy new neighbor told you.”

“Stop.”

“Stop, what?”

You both turn and find Wanda standing there with three drinks in her hands, looking like she could use some help. Immediately, you grab one of them and set it down on the bar, then trade Natasha her drink for yours. 

“Oh, Y/N’s got this really hot neighbor,” Natasha fills her in, sipping her drink, “Total DILF.”

“Nat,” you hiss, then turn to Wanda, “He’s just a nice guy. He’s got a four year old son.”

“Look at you, remembering details,” Wanda teases, and suddenly, she and Natasha are laughing together — like they’re actually friends. 

“Oh, please,” you huff, downing half of your drink and listening to Natasha cheer you on before you speak again, “I’m sure he has someone, anyway.”

“He was blushing hard,” Natasha points out. 

“He was?” Wanda gasps. 

“Stop!” you demand, laughing as you take another sip, “Nat, why don’t we gossip about you and Sam, instead.”

She grins mischievously, “Yeah, I’ve definitely got my eye on him. But, that’s not as fun as watching you squirm.”

Wanda laughs, “Totally.”

You roll your eyes and finish off your drink, knowing Natasha is about to start in again, and you’re much too sober for it. 

“Wanda, you should’ve seen the way Bucky’s friend, Steve, was flirting with her, too,” she continues, “He carried in boxes, and I’ll be damned, she even put her hand on his arm! And that man is all muscles. She loves to play innocent, but I think she knows what she’s doing.”

“She definitely does,” Wanda agrees, “I’m sure you’ve got both of those guys in a chokehold already. This will be interesting.”

You sigh, “Anyway.”

“Aw, don’t get all pouty,” Nat teases. 

“I’m just not looking for that right now,” you explain casually, waving down the bartender for another drink, “I want a quiet life. My own house, my job, and my weekend outings with you guys. I don’t need some guy.”

They both soften as they stare at you, listening closely as you explain your feelings to them. They know how you’ve been handled by men in the past, and they understand that you’re not like them. You can’t let it roll off your back the way you do; you take it personally. You get hurt when you shouldn’t. You attach meaning to things where others don’t. Now, with your job and your improved mental state, you don’t feel like risking any of it over a man. 

“Well, cheers to that, then,” Wanda breaks the silence, holding her cup up in the air, “Let’s get fucking drunk.”

     You wake the next morning with regret, anxiety, and one big, fat headache. You groan and curse out loud at yourself, then climb out of the bed to get some coffee and aspirin in you. Briefly, you consider food, but the thought makes your stomach turn. 

You spy a note on the counter in Natasha’s handwriting, which is the first thing that clues you in that she isn’t here. 

Thanks for last night! Had to run. Chores to do at home. Still coming on Tuesday night with Chinese to help you unpack, so you better not be called in to work. 

XOXO,

Nat 

You smile at it as you fire up the coffee maker, then dig through the open box on your counter until you find the bottle of aspirin you always keep handy. You recap the night in your mind; the teasing about the neighbors, the drinks, the dancing, the drinks, the karaoke, the drinks. You hadn’t planned on drinking so much, but you wanted to let off some steam. Given that you work a fourteen hour shift tomorrow, you feel like you deserved it. Now, you’re not so sure. 

     After a few hours, your headache starts to subside and your stomach growls. Knowing you don’t have any food in the house and refusing to do an entire grocery store run, you resort to picking up takeout. 

As you pull down the newly familiar street with a bag of food sitting on your passenger seat, you notice motion at the house next to yours. Steve is out in Bucky’s front yard, tossing a foam football around with Noah. You smile at the sight, then let your eyes travel a little further left. Bucky is pushing a mower down his lawn, shirtless, sweaty, and showstopping. 

You groan when you realize you’re in shorts and a giant sweatshirt with messy hair; not at all presentable for him. Then, you scold yourself for even thinking that way. 

We’re just neighbors. That’s it. 

Regardless, you still try to fix your hair before you get out of the car. Steve recognizes your vehicle and waves over to Bucky, who stops the mower and walks over to his garage, where he grabs a cloth to wipe up his sweat. 

You climb out of the car shyly, wondering if you should clear out your garage today just so this could be avoided in the future. Before you even lock the doors, Steve’s voice carries across the yard. 

“Go ahead, buddy. She’s right there.”

You furrow your brows, gripping your food a little tighter. 

“Good afternoon, Miss Y/N.”

You can’t help but grin as soon as you hear his little voice, and you forget all about your hangover and the bag of grease in your hand as you spin around. 

“Good afternoon, Jamie,” you reply, watching the little boy’s cheeks grow pink, “Are you kicking your uncle’s butt in football?”

You gesture to the foam ball in Jamie’s palms, and shyly, he nods his head. 

“Yes,” Jamie grins, “He’s not very good.”

“Excuse me,” Steve cuts in, “I’ve taught him everything he knows.”

“Everything?”

Your eyes move from Jamie and Steve to Bucky, who is approaching with a teasing grin. You stare as he brings his cloth around the back of his neck and wipes his sweat away, then drags his eyes from his friend over to you. 

His muscles in his chest flex then, and you visibly swallow and look away. You swear you hear Steve’s low chuckle, but you don’t dare look over out of fear that the men will see right through you. 

“Hi, Y/N,” Bucky greets you, watching as you hesitantly look back up at him again. 

“Hi, Bucky,” you reply, trying to figure out what to follow up with, only to blurt, “Yard looks good.”

Steve snorts and you clamp your lips together, wishing silently that you could snatch the words right out of the air and back into your mouth. 

Even so, Bucky’s lips tip up into a genuine smile, and you swear you see the high points of his cheeks go pink — just like Jamie’s. 

“Thanks,” he says sheepishly, “I’m happy to help you out with yours anytime you need it.”

He watches as you recoil at his kindness, letting your shoulders drop and a pout form on your lips. Steve sighs audibly, but neither of you even glance his way. 

“Thank you very much, I appreciate that,” you smile. 

“You’re welcome.”

The two of you grow stuck in a trance of sorts as you explore him with your eyes; his tan skin, his chest, his softening belly that makes your knees feel physically weak, and his messy hair. His soft brown eyes that work all over your body, too. 

“Wouldn’t want that food to get cold, Y/N,” Steve says knowingly, drawing you and Bucky away from each other. 

“Right. I’ll let you guys get back to it,” you give Bucky a nod and he returns it, then you move your eyes down to Jamie, “Nice to see you, Jamie. Keep beating him, okay?”

Jamie grins, “Okay.”

Steve and Bucky both laugh and so do you, and with a wave to Steve, you disappear inside your house. You try not to replay the entire thing in your head as you set your food out to eat. You turn on a show on the TV that is only half hooked up, and just as you start to eat, you hear the lawnmower fire up again. 

With minimal hesitation and refusal to think twice, you hurry over to your window — the one that faces Bucky’s — and watch as he pushes the mower down the side of his house. He’s focused, sweaty, and tan, and it stirs something inside of you. Careful not to get caught, you let your food get cold on the coffee table, Steve be damned. Bucky is a sight to see, and you find nothing wrong with indulging. It means nothing, you tell yourself. It means nothing. He’s just nice to look at, that’s all.

a/n: pleeeease let me know if i should continue writing this or not! so curious what your thoughts will be! reblogs are appreciated and thank you for reading <3

*i no longer have a tag list. follow @mackupdates to see every time i post something new!

[diazsdimples]

Idk if any of you guys remember my Single Dads AU where Buck and Eddie meet pre s2 because Christopher and Buck's daughter Carrie go to the same school and become friends, but for Reasons, please interact with this post if you'd like to be a part of the taglist for this fic

A snippet (or two), for a memory jog:

Carrie’s not sure if Christopher needs protecting, but she’s pretty sure he needs a friend right now so she puffs out her chest, thrusts her hand in the air and says, “Christopher can sit with me, Mrs. Dixon!” Carrie watches as Christopher just about melts with relief and Mrs. Dixon shoots her a grateful smile. Mrs. Dixon guides Christopher over to Carrie’s table and helps him into the chair, before patting Carrie fondly on the head. “You’re a good girl, Carrie, your dad will be proud of you.” Carrie sits up a little straighter and grins. Dad will be proud, Christopher gets a friend, there’s no downside to this in her eyes. She turns to Christopher and smiles sweetly at him. “Your crutches look cool; I didn’t know they made them in blue!” Christopher looks at her, almost surprised, as if he can’t quite believe that she’s talking to him before smiling shyly. “My Daddy picked them out, he says they’re blue like Superman cause I’m his Superman,” he replies quietly, and Carrie beams at him.

And

“First time at pick up?” The guy’s head flicks up so fast Buck swears he can hear it click. “What was that?” “Is this your first time at pick up? I just – I haven’t seen you here before, not that I’m keeping track but I know most of the parents here, so I was just curious when I saw you and–” Buck swallows. He’s rambling, like an idiot, and the guy is looking at him with an expression that looks to be a mixture of confusion and amusement, as if he can’t quite figure out if Buck’s a threat or just some dumbass that won’t shut up. “Sorry, I swear I’m not weird, I’m just–”“ Buck holds out his hand. “I’m Buck. Well, Evan, but everyone calls me Buck.” A wide grin spreads across the guy’s face and Buck heaves a sigh of relief as he takes Buck’s hand, shaking it firmly. His hands are warm and calloused, a sure sign of a man who’s good with his hands. Buck tries very very hard not to think how good he might be with his hands. “Eddie,” the guy replies, his teeth flashing as he smiles, “Eddie Diaz. Yeah, first time at pick up. Yesterday was actually my kid’s first day here but my Abuela got him.”

Tagging some friends who have been interested in this fic (no pressure to actually interact with this if you don't want to be tagged btw)

@theotherbuckley @hippolotamus @bidisasterevankinard @daffi-990 @wikiangela

@steadfastsaturnsrings @spotsandsocks @bibuckbuckgoose @bucksbignaturals @actuallyitsellie

@perfectlysunny02 @loveyouanyway @cal-daisies-and-briars @kitteneddiediaz @slightlyobsessedwitheverything

@inell @alliaskisthepossibilityoflove @tommysdaddykink @exhuastedpigeon

[beautyofattolia]

Avatar: the Way of Water

Jake: I hope you two have an explanation for this.

Spider: We have three actually.

Lo’ak: Pick your favorite.

[elvendorx]

here’s my take on the latest discourse:

james potter is a passenger princess on the BIKE, which is how they mostly get around because it’s more fun and you can pass car traffic and it’s easier to park

sirius CAN drive a car but doesn’t enjoy driving a car, he thinks it’s boring 

james DOES enjoy driving a car but in a boy racer way, it’s a sport for him

i won’t accept flying mad james potter not liking to be in control of a vehicle at least some of the time

sirius is a car passenger but not a passenger princess. he does like watching james drive. james knows it and does unnecessarily elaborate gear changes to emphasise his arms, drives with one hand low on the wheel

sirius backseat drives to annoy james when he wants to be on the bike

[murderoushagthesequel]

Happy Being Happy

from @jegulus-microfic's prompt, domestic (156 words)

ahhh this one is really cute actually. give me more elderly queer joy!!!

James looks out at Harry running around in the grass with his kids. He enjoys the simplicity of a happy family playing on a summer day. He basks in the way the sunlight calms his aching bones.

And he looks over at his husband, greying and wrinkled, and still even more beautiful than the day James met him back in 1972. Regulus smiles at him and James notes the smile lines on his face. James brought those to him.

He leans over and kisses Regulus, hearing an eewwww! from one of the kids, and chuckling to himself. Regulus’ eyes still sparkle in the sun just as they always have. And right now, in 2023, James could not possibly be more happy with the path his life has taken.

He leans down and nuzzles Regulus’ neck and bathes in the warmth, from the sun, and from the love of his life, and is just happy being happy.