#so glad they found their way back to each other

[rmadridcore]

Love in Slow Motion

Pairing: Jude Bellingham x Reader

Summary: Nine times Jude felt a strange warmth whenever he was around you, and one time he finally realized what it was.

Word Count: 1.8K

Author’s note: took a break from writing, but i’m back with a little fluffy Jude fic 🤍 i’ll start getting through my requests as well 🫂

The type of relationship you and Jude had was very special to him. It hasn’t been too long since you two became a couple and he wasn’t the type to get too serious, too fast. He preferred keeping things casual — no heavy responsibilities, no complicated emotions, just light and easy. But that all shifted when you walked into his life. It was like a switch flipped, and suddenly, what used to feel complicated or burdensome didn’t seem that way anymore. He found out how peaceful it could be to have the right person by your side. With you, everything felt good, natural. He was attracted to you, sure, but it went far beyond that. There was this deep respect, an admiration that ran much deeper than anything he had ever experienced before. And he was glad to have you in his life.

But then there was that other feeling. It was subtle at first, a strange, confusing fuzz in the pit of his stomach. A warmth that spread through his chest and left him feeling... overwhelmed, in the best possible way.

The feeling would hit him at the most random times, uninvited but never unwelcome. He couldn’t quite put a name to it at first, but it was undeniable — it was strong, intense, and utterly inescapable when he was around you. And it took him a while, 10 moments to be exact, before he finally realized what that feeling really was.

The first time it hit him was during an ordinary Tuesday at his place. You two had just come back from the gym, snacks in hand — a little indulgence after an intense workout. You sat cross-legged on the floor near the coffee table, meticulously sorting through your favorite candy, arranging them by color like it was some life or death mission. Jude couldn’t help but watch, utterly mesmerized. The way your brows furrowed in concentration, the seriousness in your expression over something so trivial. It was adorable. He didn’t even realize he was smiling, his heart swelling with that familiar warmth. He’d barely noticed it then, but that was the first time the feeling crept in.

The second time was less subtle. You two were lounging in bed, tangled up in each other’s arms as the worst crime series he’d ever seen played on TV. You loved it, adored it, despite how horrendously predictable and dull it was. If it were up to him, that show would never grace his screen, not in a million years. But when you asked him to watch it with you, he couldn’t say no. He didn’t want to. Even though he didn’t care for the show, he found himself invested — not in the plot, but in the way your face lit up during the ridiculous twists, how you laughed at the over the top dialogue. It hit him then, that same feeling, stronger this time. He didn’t care about the show. He cared about you, about how happy you were. And somehow, that made it all worth it.

The third time it hit him was at dawn. Thirst had woken him up in the middle of the night, and after a quick drink of water, he climbed back into bed. But sleep didn’t return as easily. Instead, he found himself gazing at you — your sleeping figure, so peaceful, so serene. You looked perfect, nestled into the fluffy pillow with the blanket pulled up to your chin. His heart swelled as he watched you, that same unamenable feeling washing over him again. There was something mesmerizing about how relaxed and beautiful you looked, your soft features illuminated by the faint light creeping through the curtains. You were flawless to him, like a dream come to life. And as he lied there, wide awake, he realized how happy it made him to be the one who got to fall asleep and wake up next to you. He was happy, so happy, and he couldn’t believe how lucky he was.

The fourth time came just before he had to leave for training. He was sitting at the kitchen table, lazily texting his brother, when you came over and placed a cup of coffee in front of him. You gave him a quick kiss before heading to the bathroom, leaving him to take his first sip. As the warm liquid touched his lips, it hit him — you hadn’t asked him how he liked his coffee in months. Only once, when you first started seeing each other. Since then, you had memorized his exact preferences, down to the smallest detail, making it for him just the way he liked without ever needing a reminder. That tiny, thoughtful gesture struck him harder than anything else could have. You knew him so well, and you cared enough to remember the little things. It was a simple moment, but it made him feel that same warmth, that same fuzzy feeling in his chest, stronger than ever.

The fifth time was during a dinner at your friend’s house. The evening had been fun, filled with laughter and conversations, but it was after dinner when that familiar feeling surged through him again. The guests had spread around the house, sipping on drinks and chatting in small groups. He had just come back from the balcony, where he had been talking with a few friends, when he spotted you across the room. You were sitting on a couch with your girlfriends, your head thrown back in laughter, the sound echoing through the room. God, you were beautiful. The way you laughed, so carefree, so full of joy, it made his breath hitch. Your eyes crinkled at the corners, your cheeks flushed from whatever joke had you in stitches, and he felt like time stopped for a moment. In that instant, all he wanted was to hold onto that image of you, happy and glowing. He wanted to freeze time, to keep you laughing forever. It was in moments like that when he felt it the most, this overwhelming, undeniable feeling.

The sixth time hit him when he was getting ready for an award show. You had been by his side all evening, calming his nerves, reassuring him with your words, building him up when he felt uncertain. He loved how involved you were in his career, how you were genuinely his number one fan. As you stood there fixing his collar, making sure he looked perfect before he walked out the door, that feeling rushed over him again. There was something so tender about the way you took care of him, focused on every little detail, and it hit him just how lucky he was to have someone who cared this much.

The seventh time happened on a simple stroll through the city. You loved being outdoors when the weather was nice, and Jude loved tagging along, happy to do anything that brought a smile to your face. As you two walked hand-in-hand along the sidewalk, an adorable white puppy caught your attention. Without a second thought, you dropped Jude’s hand and rushed over to pet the dog, kneeling down and squealing at how cute it was. Watching you gush over the puppy, completely losing yourself in the moment, made that warm, fuzzy feeling flood his chest again. He stood there, grinning, watching as you melted into a bundle of squeaks and giggles, and all he could think was how much he loved seeing you happy.

The eighth time came after one of the hardest days he’d had in a while. Exhausted and stressed, he came home expecting to collapse, but instead, he was greeted by the heavenly smell of his favorite meal cooking. You had surprised him, knowing full well that he’d be grumpy and starving after the long day. The house smelled like comfort, and you acted like it was no big deal, just something you casually did to make his day a little better. But to him, it meant everything. He kissed you as a way of saying thank you, feeling so grateful for how effortlessly you made his life better. You always knew exactly how to make him feel like the luckiest man in the world.

The ninth time was pure simplicity. He had just gotten out of the shower, towel wrapped around his waist, another one in hand as he dried his hair. He walked into the living room and saw you lounging on the couch, reading a book and wearing his T-shirt. Something about you in his clothes, looking so relaxed and at home in his space, hit him hard. It was such a small thing, but it sent that familiar warmth surging through him, stronger than ever. The sight of you so comfortable in his world, in his shirt, made him realize — he could get used to this. In fact, he wouldn’t want it any other way.

And the tenth time was the epiphany. You two were out grocery shopping, preparing for a dinner party you were hosting for your friends over the weekend. As you wandered through the aisles, picking and choosing what you needed for the meal, Jude followed behind you, pushing the cart loaded with products. He watched you with soft admiration as you weighed your options, debating what dessert to serve. It struck him how perfectly domestic everything felt; how easy, how natural, and how real it was.

Everything he once feared, commitment, responsibilities, routine, was now something he craved with you. He loved the simplicity of it all, the way you moved through life together with such ease. This wasn’t just about being comfortable; it was about feeling truly at home with you. And then, it hit him. That feeling he had been experiencing all along, that warmth in his chest — it was love.

It was love that made him stare at you sorting candy like it was the most captivating thing in the world. Love that had him watching that awful crime show with you, just to hold you close. Love that kept him glued to your sleeping face at dawn. Love that made your laugh the best sound he had ever heard, and the way you made his coffee exactly how he liked it felt so special. Love that made him emotional when you adjusted his collar, and why watching you squeal over a random dog on the street made his heart melt. It was love that made your cooking the best thing he could ever come home to, and why seeing you in his clothes felt so right.

He loved you — deeply, more than he ever thought possible. And as he looked at you then, standing in the grocery aisle, he was sure of one thing: when you looked back at him, there wasn’t a single doubt in his mind that you loved him just as much.

[p1astr81]

I love you, dad

in which: Oscar and Ryder face each other for the final time.

pairing: spiderman!oscar piastri x reader

warnings: angst, injury, cursing, kinda short, lowkey corny dialogue, lmk if there’s any others!

an: this will be the final part, thank you to everyone who has been reading!

part 1 | part 2 | part 3 | part 4

‧‧₊˚ ⋅* ۶ৎ ‧₊ ‧₊˚ ⋅

It was late. One in the morning to be exact. Oscar went patrolling after dinner at yours, but he couldn’t get something off his mind. Which led him to Tony’s doorstep, fist balled and banging repeatedly on his front door.

Eventually, Oscar’s fist met free air as Tony threw open the door. The older man was disheveled, hair a mess and eyes half open. “What, kid? What do you want?” He asked, highly annoyed.

“Is it possible for Ryder West to know who I am?”

Tony blinked repeatedly. “What?”

“Well, cause, he saw me—like—out of uniform, and I don’t know he was looking at me while talking about spiders so it felt like-“

Tony interrupted his rambling with a sigh. “He doesn’t know you, kid. Not unless you told him.” A pause. “And why would he see you out of uniform?”

Oscar stumbled over himself. “You know what, come in. I feel like this is going to be a long one.”

The door was held open for him. Oscar found his way to the couch and sat with his head hung. “So, I have a girlfriend.”

“Yes. I know. She keeps you from patrolling every night, this isn’t new information.” Tony twirled his wrist in a circle, motioning for him to continue. “Well, her dad is…” Oscar scoffs, stalling to avoid Tony’s reaction.

“Her dad is Ryder.”

Tony’s brows shot up, his mouth gaping slightly. “Wow. Didn’t see that one coming. But that’s a tough problem for you kid. Real tough.” Oscar just nodded.

“So I take it she doesn’t know her dad is evil Elsa?”

Oscar shook his head.

“Yikes.” Tony’s hand landed on Oscars shoulder. “Sounds like you’ve got your hands full.” His remorse was minuscule as he stood up, walking away.

Oscar watched with his brows drawn together in confusion. “Mr. Stark? Where are you going?”

“To bed. Goodnight Oscar.”

۶ৎ ۶ৎ ۶ৎ

The landing was messy and uncoordinated tonight. He was trying to balance two cups of hot cocoa and a box of two chocolate donuts while also sticking a clean landing on the rooftop. Safe to say he failed. The drinks splashed on his boots and he just barely salvaged the donuts when he stumbled.

“Package retrieved!” He cheered as he sat down on the ledge beside you. You laughed at him and took your cup from his hand. “You make such a good delivery boy.” You bumped your shoulder with his.

He flipped up his mask just enough to eat, and through a mouth full of donut responded with, “glad to be of service!”

You chuckled under your breath.

After the both of you had finished your donuts, Oscar hummed. “I’ve been meaning to ask you,” he continued once your eyes met his through the mask. “And you don’t have to answer but… why do your parents have a different last name?”

You shrugged. “My mom was an only child. Grandpa had no one to carry on the middle name, so they gave it to me at birth.”

Oscar nodded in understanding, his eyes on his swinging feet. After a moment, he looked up at you smiling. “You know, the lady at the donut shop was gawking at me the whole time. Super uncomfortable.”

You scanned him, eyes enamored. A tender smile. “Can’t blame her.”

Oscar scoffed a laugh. “Oh come o—mfph” he was cut off abruptly by your lips on his. Subconsciously, his body gave into your touch, leaning closer and getting both of his hands on you. “Gonna- mhh- gonna- be seen.” Oscar managed to mutter between kisses.

You broke away and tucked your hair behind your ears. Two hands placed on his biceps, you shoved him off the ledge and onto the flat roof.

“Now we’re out of sight.” You gave a cheeky smile before diving back in.

Before your lips even made contact, Oscar’s warm body disappeared from below you. He was perked up, his mask messily yanked back down over his face. He was frantically searching in every direction.

“What is it?” You we’re cautious.

His eyes narrowed. “I don’t know.” He breathed out. His senses were at an all time high, his body screaming at him that danger was inevitable, but the city looked normal.

“Is it your… tingle?”

Oscar nodded, in a trance.

Then his head snapped to the left just as a boulder of ice flattened a car. They heard the shattering and the crunching metal from yards away.

“Shit,” you gasped, a hand finding Oscar’s arm quickly. It secured you.

He got to his feet. “Get inside. Find a basement, or get under a sturdy table.”

“Oscar,”

He looked back at you.

“Be safe. Please.”

Oscar nodded before taking off.

Mid-flight, he activated his nano-suit. In the case of any sharp icicles flying his way, It would protect him better than the suit he wore currently.

Subzero swiveled on his floating block of ice to face Oscar’s direction. “Ah, and the bug is here!” His voice was loud, filled with disdain and malice. An ice shard, the size of Oscar’s own head came flying at him as he swung from building to building. He had to drop a couple of stories to avoid it, losing any elevation ground he had on Ryder.

“Arachnoid!” Oscar corrected.

“Doesn’t make a difference to me, I’ll squash you all the same.”

Oscar did not doubt the truth in that statement. He was very aware that it only took one boulder-sized ice cube to flatten him. But he wasn’t worried. He was quick. He could dodge anything that came his way. His main concern remained with the innocent people of the city.

Oscar swung underneath Ryder, hoping to draw him away from the crowds. Unfortunately for Oscar, he didn’t take the bait.

Cursing under his breath, toes pointed to the sky, he launched himself into the air and stuck to the side of a building. Eye level with his own girlfriend’s father.

“Last time wasn’t enough for you?” His laugh taunted Oscar. Another shard came right for him. He flipped, managing to web one of Ryder’s hands, and landed on the building opposite. The shard pierced the window, shattering its panes.

A blade of ice materialized in Subzero’s other hand. He made quick work of slicing the web.

“You’re gonna have to try harder than that.”

Oscar rolled his eyes at the man’s incessant yammering. He tried to web him up again, but he predicted Oscar’s moves. His webs met empty air.

It was a constant game between them. A web shot at Ryder. Ice flying in Oscar’s direction. It was a constant back and forth, and neither of them were winning. They’ve moved a couple of blocks from where they first began, and Oscar started to realize they were getting dangerously close to your place of work, where you were currently hiding out.

When he tried to move back in the other direction, he was hit with a solid rock of ice that blew him back, right onto a rooftop.

Your rooftop, he realized almost immediately.

Shit, he cursed quietly, trying to get away but his web was turned to ice, eliminating it’s elasticity and shattering it. He went rolling back on to the concrete rooftop, letting out a small grunt.

When he looked up from where he lay, Ryder had joined him. Oscar hoped you had the mind to get out of there.

He tried to get up, but Ryder had kicked him back down. Now a firm boot pressed his body against the concrete, cementing him in place. “I admire your determination.” Ryder’s boot pressed harder, earning a small groan out of Oscar. “But you were never going to win this.” He feigned sympathy.

Oscar’s ears picked up the smallest sound. Footsteps. He turned his head in its direction, finding you at its source.

Eyes shifting down to where you grasped a dull knife in your hand, his heart leaped to his throat. An attempt at communication was made, through the subtle shifting of his eyes. You hadn’t picked up on it.

You continued to advance, but your foot crunched on a broken piece of ice. Without looking, Ryder shot out an ice shard in your direction.

A broken gasp was punched out of Oscar’s lungs. You stumbled, the knife falling from your hands. Your hands surrounded the icicle that was impaled in your stomach. “Don’t!” Oscar shouted. Your movements halted.

Oscar was quick to web up the knife, and plunged it into Ryder’s foot once in his hand. Shocked, Ryder stepped back, allowing Oscar to get up. He ran to you as you continued to stumble. You tried to stay on your feet. You were disoriented. That much was clear.

His instinct took over. Webs were shot across the rooftop. As many as he could manage. He stuck Ryder to the very ledge the both of you sat on each night.

You slumped against Oscar. Heavy breaths. Eyes half open. An attempt at a smile. A hand coming up to cup his cheek.

The tears fell fast. His fear undeniable. “It’s okay. You’re okay.” He was unsure which one of you he was trying to reassure, but he kept repeating the words.

Your name was called. A tone of horror. Your father. He struggled against his restraints. You squinted at him. Tried to identify him. You couldn’t. Not when your eyes were as unfocused as they were.

“Friday, alert Mr. Stark.”

“Right away.”

“Oscar,” you breathed out. Affection.

A shaky breath. “I’m gonna get you to a hospital.” He stood. You slumped against him. “Hold on as tight as you can for me, yeah?” Oscar was choking on his own tears at this point.

“But… I’ll get blood on your suit.” A feeble laugh. A shuttered sob. He was failing at holding it together. “That’s okay. I can wash it.”

Oscar shot off into the air. A yell of objection following him.

A slight whimper. “Hurts.” You managed. “I know.” He repeated over again.

Tears blurred his vision, nearly running into a stoplight. “You’re a reckless swinger.” You muttered. Oscar gave a weak laugh at the fact you’d called him a swinger.

He landed right outside the ER. Your legs gave way. “Woah, hey. Okay.” He was sure his mask would be soaked through with tears if it wasn’t for the nano technology.

He picked you up bridal style. “I need a doctor!” He pleaded, not caring how broken his voice sounded.

۶ৎ ۶ৎ ۶ৎ

You shifted, letting out a low grunt. Your abdomen housed a dull, throbbing pain. You tried to move your arm but it’s mobility was restricted by a light weight.

Oscar’s head. Eyes closed. Asleep. His eyebrows were furrowed. His body tense. “Os,” your other hand threaded it’s fingers through his hair.

He stirred but didn’t wake. “Hey,” you poked his shoulder. He slowly lifted his head, blinking a couple of times before gasping loudly. “You’re up.” He was shocked, arms wrapping around your neck to pull you into him. He let go when you winced. “Sorry.” He stepped back.

You made him room on the bed, allowing him to sit next to you. “Where are my parents?”

Oscar’s eyes could no longer meet yours. His hands were suddenly fascinating. “Your mom is on a work trip.”

You blinked. “How long have I been out?”

“Two days. Medically induced coma. They said it would help with recovery.” You nodded. “And my dad?”

Oscar bit his lip. “He’s…” he sighed. “I shouldn’t be the one to tell you.” He shook his head. Your eyes widened. “What? Is he dead?” You were panicked.

“No! No… just away.” Oscar reassured. You sat up, wincing at the pain from the sudden movement. “Away? What the hell does that mean?” You demanded.

Oscar met your eyes. A deep breath. “Mr. Stark took him to a high security prison. In the middle of the Ocean.”

A wave of different emotions crashed over your expression at his words. Confusion. Sadness. Anger.

Realization.

Oscar’s hesitance when they met. On the rooftop, how he knew your name. The familiarity of his voice. “Oh,” you put the pieces of the puzzle together. Your eyes became glossed over.

Then the denial came.

You shook your head, the motion never ending. “He…” A shaky breath. “He wouldn’t have…” Oscar pulled something out of his pocket. A folded piece of paper.

“He wrote this for you.” He offered the small square to you. You took it between your nimble fingers, unfolding it carefully. You swallowed your fear, leaning into Oscar as your eyes met the first line of the page.

To my daughter,

I hope this gets to you, alive and well. I want to first apologize to you for the secrecy on my part. I thought it was better to keep this from you. My alternate self, subzero, wasn’t something you needed to know about. It would have put you in more danger than you already were.

I believe it is important that I tell you exactly why I became this. Twelve years ago, when the aliens came to New York and the world first became aware of the Avengers, I believed I needed to protect you from them. I believed they were frauds. They caused irreversible damage to the city and the people, I believed they truly didn’t care about the people. They only cared about looking heroic.

So I vowed to take out each and every one of them. I’d been building high powered weapons ever since then. One of them went wrong, and somehow changed the composition of my cells and DNA. That’s how I ended up with these powers.

They were never meant to hurt you. I always wanted to protect you. This wasn’t what I wanted to happen. I’m sorry for it all, and that I had to end up in this prison without saying goodbye to you. I was angry with that boy that night. I believed it was supposed to be me by your side. I didn’t understand his connection with you, why he held you so tightly and why his voice shook when he reassured you. Until they told me who he was.

I know now that my perception of the avengers was wrong. They truly are trying to help those who cannot help themselves. I regret it.

I also want you to know that I approve of your boy. I assume you know he’s spider-man. I don’t know if that was part of your reason for choosing him but it doesn’t matter. Oscar is a kind, confident, and resilient young man. It’s become apparent that he cares for you deeply. For that, I truly believe he is what’s best for you. I don’t think there’s anyone I’d approve of more.

If this gets through, please write back to me. I don’t know if they’ll let you visit, but please ask Oscar. Maybe with your connections, they’ll make an exception. If not, I’ll write to you every week.

I love you,

Dad.

[transit-fag]

As they took him from the cross I, the centurion, took him in my arms- the tough lean body of a man no longer young, beardless, breathless, but well hung.

He was still warm. While they prepared the tomb I kept guard over him. His mother and the Magdalen had gone to fetch clean linen to shroud his nakedness.

I was alone with him. For the last time I kissed his mouth. My tongue found his, bitter with death. I licked his wound- the blood was harsh For the last time I laid my lips around the tip of that great cock, the instrument of our salvation, our eternal joy. The shaft, still throbbed, anointed with death's final ejaculation

I knew he'd had it off with other men- with Herod's guards, with Pontius Pilate, With John the Baptist, with Paul of Tarsus with foxy Judas, a great kisser, with the rest of the Twelve, together and apart. He loved all men, body, soul and spirit. - even me.

So now I took off my uniform, and, naked, lay together with him in his desolation, caressing every shadow of his cooling flesh, hugging him and trying to warm him back to life. Slowly the fire in his thighs went out, while I grew hotter with unearthly love.

It was the only way I knew to speak our love's proud name, to tell him of my long devotion, my desire, my dread- something we had never talked about. My spear, wet with blood, his dear, broken body all open wounds, and in each wound his side, his back, his mouth - I came and came and came

as if each coming was my last. And then the miracle possessed us. I felt him enter into me, and fiercely spend his spirit's finbal seed within my hole, my soul, pulse upon pulse, unto the ends of the earth- he crucified me with him into kingdom come.

-This is the passionate and blissful crucifixion same-sex lovers suffer, patiently and gladly. They inflict these loving injuries of joy and grace one upon the other, till they dies of lust and pain within the horny paradise of one another's limbs, with one voice cry to heaven in a last divine release.

Then lie long together, peacefully entwined, with hope of resurrection, as we did, on that green hill far away. But before we rose again, they came and took him from me. They knew not what we had done, but felt no shame or anger. Rather they were glad for us, and blessed us, as would he, who loved all men.

And after three long, lonely days, like years, in which I roamed the gardens of my grief seeking for him, my one friend who had gone from me, he rose from sleep, at dawn, and showed himself to me before all others. And took me to him with the love that now forever dares to speak its name.

Jesus Pornography in my tumblr inbox??

[gaytommykinard]

continuation from this

they fall asleep with josh in the middle, curled up with buck, and tommy behind him. he'd tried to make a run for it after getting cleaned up but josh told him to get his ass back in bed and pretty much demanded that tommy spoon him to sleep.

“i don't remember you being this bossy,” tommy mumbled, lips pressed to josh's bare shoulder.

josh grinned, entirely too satisfied. “maybe i was going easy on you. what with you having the temperament of a stray cat.” and buck burst out into a fit of hysterical giggles.

josh wakes up a little before his alarm is scheduled to go off and goes to shower, walks back into his bedroom to see that buck and tommy have closed the gap between them, still fast asleep wrapped up in each other in the middle of josh's bed. he shakes his head and gets dressed quickly, picks up his things and heads to work, sending a text to ask buck to lock up when he leaves and drop the spare key in his mailbox.

he doesn't expect to hear from either of them. he thinks his part is done, those two idiots are back together and in all honesty it was a fun night. he never thought he'd get a bonus night with tommy, and he never, ever thought he'd hook up with buck. and honestly? he's glad they've found each other. he moved on from tommy a long time ago and eventually forgiven him for the way he ended things. he knew how much tommy had struggled and he could really see how much he's changed, it was clear from the moment buck pulled him into chimney's hospital room with soot all over his face. and buck, well, he wants nothing but the best for buck.

it still stings when he goes home that evening to an empty apartment.

but he gets the call from tommy two weeks later, asking to meet up, and tommy looks nervous as hell when he sees josh walking through the door at the cafe down the street from his apartment building.

josh orders a chai latte for himself and doesn't let tommy get a single word out before he comes out with, “you really don't have to apologise for what happened between us, tommy. it's ancient history, water under the bridge.”

tommy deflates, shoulders sagging. “you sent me a picture of my boyfriend with your dick in his mouth.”

“ex boyfriend.”

tommy rolls his eyes. “okay. and?”

“okay, i was being petty. on behalf of buck, too, you know? he was devastated.”

and tommy nods and josh thinks that's it, they can wrap this up, he got a to-go cup for a reason. he'll definitely see tommy at some point or another, the 118 is a tight-knit group and josh is sort of part of it, at least peripherally. they'll be friends, it'll be okay.

but then tommy asks if josh would give him another chance. and josh nearly chokes on his coffee. stares. asks, “but... buck?”

“uhh, yeah. that's kind of why i'm here. he said he wants to — um —” tommy stammers awkwardly and josh has never seen him blush this much. “i mean, we would both like to see you again. i just, i told evan there's no way you'd — i know i hurt you. and i am sorry. i was—”

“wait, back up.” josh is pretty sure he's imagining things. “are you asking me for another threesome?”

several, tommy says, but his eyes are crinkling at the corners and josh is pretty sure he's joking. he says, just think about it, if you're up for it, send us a text or something, we can meet up and talk about it, all three of us. and then he says he has to go and he gets up and walks past josh on his way out but bends down to press a kiss to his cheek, catching him completely off guard.

josh stares at his cup until the drink goes completely cold. then he picks up his phone and texts buck to tell him your boyfriend just asked me out, just to make sure buck is in the loop. buck texts back nearly immediately, so when do you want to come over? we're free sunday.

[lillaydee]

Matchmade Part 5

Millionaire! Joel Miller / Reader

Having experienced traumatic, life altering events, a freshly divorced Joel worked to repay his debt to the person he owed his life to.

WARNINGS:

Good Parent Joel (The Last of Us), Soft Joel (The Last of Us), Joel Needs a Hug (The Last of Us), Joel Lives (The Last of Us), Protective Joel (The Last of Us), Alternate Universe - No Cordyceps Outbreak (The Last of Us), Character Death, Fluff, Angst, Eventual Smut.

SERIES MASTER LIST

Part 4

---

“Hi.”

Shit, it’s cuckoo lad, and he’s so close.

Wait, he’s Sarah’s dad?

You squirmed your way out of his hold, thanking him for not letting you fall.

“Daddy, no, this is Miss Addie, not Wiyams,” Sarah said, frustration in her voice.

He gave her a soft laugh, sorry BabyGirl. He held his hand out to you, and said nice to meet you, Miss Addie.

You took his hand with a small smile, and said nice to meet you too, Mr Miller, to which, he corrected you with Joel.

He told you he was glad to have found you. He’d been looking for you. He was wondering if he could talk to you? You nodded and asked him to wait for you in the office as you handled the pickup for the other kids. Sarah had completely forgotten Daddy was there and had gone back to playing with one of the kids.

He waited patiently for you to settle the kids, practicing what to say to you in his head. So you are Miss Addie. Small world. He felt as if he knew so much about you already, the way Sarah wouldn’t shut up about you. You finally came back in and asked if you could get him anything. Coffee? Tea? Water? No, thank you, he said. You asked if Julia could watch Sarah for a bit. She waved her hands at you, go, I’ve got her, she signed.

You sat down across from him and waited for him to speak. He placed his hands on the table, interlacing his fingers with each other.

“I heard about Allie. I’m so sorry, Miss Addie. How are you doing?”

“Thank you. I’m doing okay, considering the circumstances.”

“Is there anything I can do for you? Anything at all?”

“It’s kind of you to ask, but I’m alright.”

“May I know where she’s interred? I’d like to visit, bring Sarah with me, if I can?”

You fell silent. What do you tell him? She’s in an urn in the trunk of my car cause I can’t afford a proper burial for her?

“I haven’t finalized anything yet, but I will let you know.”

He had a contemplative look on his face, as if he was going to say more, but ultimately decided not to. He nodded softly, and told you that if you ever need anything, anything at all, please do not hesitate to contact him. He took a card from his wallet and gave it to you. You took it, thanking him with a smile. He got up and made to leave but paused and turned back to look at you.

“Miss Addie, as far as I’m concerned, I’m still here because your sister saved my life. I owe her my life. Nothing is too small, or too big to ask of me. Please. Call me if you need anything at all.”

You smiled and nodded again. After prying Sarah off your person, he left.

You locked up after Julie left. You looked at the card he gave you. Damn… a CEO of his own company, judging by the name of the company. You kept thinking about what he said. It would be so easy to ask. If only you were not taught to never ask for help if you could help yourself.

**********

Your working days at the daycare went by pretty smoothly. Before you knew it, it had been a full month since you had started working there. Your days were spent with children you love spending time with, making their lunches and snacks, putting them down for a nap and reading or doing activities with them. If things stay this way, you could move out in three months. Sarah was dropped off by her dad every day, but picked up by different people, depending on who was free. You couldn’t help but notice Julie clamouring to handle Sarah’s pickup if Tess was involved, the two spending a long time chatting until Sarah pulled Tess away, wanting to go home. She would be conveniently busy whenever Joel did the pickup, insisting that she’s got whatever it was you were doing. Go, I’m sure he’d like to hear about Sarah from you.

And he really did.

You admire how involved this man was with his child. You found out from Julie what had happened to Sarah’s mother, your eyes widening at the bit where she tried to kill him at the hospital. So he wasn’t lying. You had honestly thought that was part of his cuckoo thing. Apparently not. Oh God, the poor man. No wonder Sarah had never even mentioned a mother. It’s good she had three very dedicated women in her life who loved her so much.

You were deep cleaning the playpen one day when Julie asked if you were busy that long weekend. Apparently, there was a convention in the next town, all the local businesses would flock to the big seaside resort for the event, promoting their businesses, exchanging ideas, getting business tips, the likes. The resort was massive, it could easily house the event, usually fully booked during this time, in fact, it was the resort your parents were going to when the accident happened. You were aware of the convention, it was a big event, this year lasting for two full days, although most people would go Friday and come back Monday. There were activities for everyone. But you had never attended, not being high up enough in the company you used to work for to ever represent them.

Anyway, Julie said, the Millers were going, as they usually do. But the parents, Anita and Jake, who would usually take care of Sarah during times like this, had booked a holiday with friends during that weekend, and the rest of them were involved with the convention. They were looking for someone to look after Sarah. You would get your own room, of course. You just need to make sure Sarah was occupied and safe during those two days. They will pay you handsomely, of course. Would you be interested?

You didn’t really have to think about it. Spend a long weekend with Sarah at a nice hotel for some extra pocket money? Uh, yeah! Of course you are interested.

So, that Friday morning, when Joel asked where he should pick you up to check in that evening, you told him he didn’t have to worry, you can drive yourself after closing. He insisted, parking would be a nightmare anyway, and he had valet service. He’s free to pick Sarah up, since the event would only start Saturday morning. He would just be there to mingle and make contacts, his staff would handle the rest.

You couldn’t tell him you live there. What would he think of you? Julie saved the day, telling him that you could just leave with him when he picked Sarah up, she’ll handle the closing. That way, Joel could just drop you off at the daycare on Monday, and you could leave your car here in the meantime, she said. That’s settled, then, Joel said. Pick you up at 4.30, he said. You just nodded and brought Sarah inside with you, glad that your status as a semi-homeless person was safe.

You were not ashamed, per se. But what would he think of you if he knew the woman he trusted to take care of his daughter was without a home at the moment? You needed this job, you needed this extra money, so you chose to keep quiet, and Julie was kind enough to help you do the same. 

That evening, he picked you and Sarah up, buckling her in the back seat before helping you up into his truck. Only when his door slammed shut did you realize that this was the first time you would be alone with him in a car for an amount of time. Shit. What do you talk about with someone like him? Can you even do that with someone like him? The man owned a business. You were an uneducated, homeless nobody.

You worries turned out to be unfounded. Sarah did all the talking, despite falling asleep every ten minutes, before waking up and continuing her stories as if she didn’t just doze off for two full minutes. Two full minutes, which Joel filled with questions about you and Allie growing up. During the hour drive to the resort, you got to know him a little, and him, you. And not once, you realized, did he talk about his wealth, in fact, he didn’t mention anything about his business to you all that weekend, preferring to talk about his family, namely Sarah, and asking you about yours, and getting to know you.

You also found out during that drive that the cuckoo lad gets better looking the longer you look at him, so you resorted to not doing that. He’s your boss. Stop it Miss Addie.

When you got to the resort, he picked a sleeping Sarah up, the concierge taking care of the luggage. Tess met the three of you at the door, giving you a quick hug hello, and escorting you to the penthouse. Joel took Sarah to her bedroom, while the concierge took the luggage to the rooms, and you stood waiting to be taken to yours, until Tess told you that you would be staying in the penthouse with Joel. Separate rooms, of course. She, Tommy and Maria would be right next door.

You were flustered, to say the least. You had never been in a room this grand. The first floor of the penthouse was bigger than the house you and Allie grew up in, including the land around. That vase on the dining table looked as if it would cost all your savings to replace. What if you broke something? Shit.

Yeah, you’re just going to stand right there until Sarah woke up.

Joel came out of Sarah’s room, tipped the concierge and got your luggage himself, asking you to follow him. He took you to the room right next to Sarah’s and placed your luggage on the rack. He actually asked if he could get you anything. Like, sir? Excuse me? I should be getting you things, not the other way around? Hello? You really felt out of place there, how were you supposed to behave around people like him and his family? He seemed to sense it, so he got on to business.

“Make yourself at home. We’ll have dinner here tonight; the family will join us. Tomorrow onwards you will be mostly on your own but call us if you need anything. Charge everything to the room, just show them your key, okay?”

You nodded, eyes wide from trying to get the concept of charging things to the room.

You heard Sarah call for him. He immediately rushed over, and your heart freaking melted at his commitment to her. Stop it. You’re here to work. Stop it.

As you unpacked your luggage and Sarah’s, you couldn’t help but wonder what Allie would’ve thought of this place. You went out to the expansive balcony and looked at the glorious view, the wind in your hair, feeling like a massive failure. You had always wanted to take her here. In the twelve years you had taken care of her, not once did you ever take her on a holiday, trying to save as much money as you could for more important things, just the beach on the weekends, or the park or the pool sometimes. You’d never allowed pets, worried that the cost of their food and health care might be too much. Movies were a treat, much less the concession stand. Pizza? You can make one for cheaper, and far tastier.

You wondered, at that moment, if Allie hated you for that. If she did, she didn’t show you, or maybe you were too blind to see it? She didn’t get to enjoy the normal things kids her age did, because you were too tight with the purse strings, thinking that her college fund was more important than having fun. And where did all that lead you? She’s gone, you’re alone, that fund you were so keen on saving was gone within weeks, and you were sleeping in the spare room at the daycare where you worked.

You didn’t even realize it, but your face was wet with tears in no time. You should have taken her here. Surely one night here wouldn’t have bankrupted you. And she would have known what it was like to stay at a hotel at least once.

“Miss Addie, are you okay?”

You wiped your entire face with your sleeves and turned around to greet a groggy Sarah. You lifted her up and asked her if she would like to go to the pool. She excitedly nodded. You got ready, putting on your simple swimsuit that you had owned since God knows when, covering it with an old flannel that belonged to your father and a pair of knee length bike shorts. You then got Sarah ready, running into Joel who was on a phone call, and told him you were taking Sarah down for a swim. He nodded and said he will join you shortly, lifting the phone off his ear to say when he was done.

The kiddie pool was glorious. Sarah squealed with joy. She made you pretend to be a mermaid so she can sit on your back while you swam, giggling happily, her water wings smacking you on your face every few seconds. You had pool noodle sword fights, and built sandcastles on the fake beach, and watched as the fake waves wash the castle away.

She wanted ice lollies, so you took her to the stand that sold them. The two of you were heavily debating what flavour to get when a familiar voice greeted you.

“Addison? Is that you?”

And of course, Tanya had to be here. You put on a smile and greeted her back.

“What on earth are you doing at this hotel? Who did you fu…”

She stopped when she saw Sarah. You lifted her up, not wanting her to continue with her usual foul-mouthed poison which seemed to happen whenever she spoke to you.

“Well, hello there,” she said, her body angled away from Sarah, nose scrunched as if she smelled bad. “Who’s this?”

“Are you here for the convention?” you asked, not wanting to expose Sarah to her at all, remembering how bad she had been with kids, Allie in particular,

“Of course, the question is, what are you doing here, with a kid, no less.”

“Hi, everything okay?” Joel appeared out of nowhere behind you.

“Yeah, we’re just getting some ice lollies,” you said, as he took Sarah from you. “What flavour do you want?”

“See if they have blueberry,” he said, eyeing Tanya, who had by now, taken her sunglasses off, and trailing her eyes all over Joel. “Get extra, Tommy, Maria and Tess are here, they got us a few chairs. 

You got the ice lollies, and Joel immediately placed a hand on the small of your back and led you away. He had no idea who Tanya was, but he didn’t get good vibes from her, so he took charge and got you and his daughter as far away as he can from her.

You let him lead you away, but your heart wouldn’t give up the worry. Although you had always bit your tongue when it came to her, Tanya being here, as far as you’re concerned, brought nothing but trouble for you. When he asked you who that was, you just said she was your neighbour growing up. And he left it at that, clocking how uncomfortable you were with her.

The rest of the family cheered when you got there with the lollies. And within minutes, you almost forgot you were there to nanny for Sarah. None of them treated you like the staff. You were just one of them. You were just Addie, although Sarah kept correcting everyone and telling them your name was Miss Addie, thank you very much. You spent the evening talking to Tess, who couldn’t stop asking you questions about your boss Julie, blushed, and told you to shut up when she noticed that you were looking at her with sly smile.

Maria asked how you got to be so good with children. She had heard about the way you coaxed Sarah to come out of the playhouse on her first day. You told them you had been babysitting since you were ten and taken care of Allie since she was born. You were just used to it. You all toasted Allie with lollies, even Sarah, and after a while, left to go back upstairs.

And of course, Tanya was in the elevator. She didn’t say anything to you, but her eyes widened when she saw Tommy press the button for the penthouses. Joel eyed you the entire time, trying to figure out what was going on, but didn’t say anything.

By the time dinner was over, you actually felt like you were part of the family, having gotten your hands smacked away every time you tried to clean up. Sarah sat on your lap during dinner, by the time the plates were cleaned, she was sound asleep. You lifted her up and brought her to bed. She woke up just as you were putting her down and asked if she could have a story from Daddy. Joel came in and laid next to her, so you got up to leave, giving them some privacy, but Sarah said no, Miss Addie, stay. Lie here and patted her other side for you.

Okay, this was awkward. But Joel just said, yes, Miss Addie, stay, a teasing smile on his face, his hand going over Sarah’s head, patting the same area she was.

Well, Sarah was right there, and you couldn’t resist the pleading look. It’s not like you were next to him. Sarah was there, cutest little buffer to ever exist.

So you laid down and listened to the story with her. Before long, you fell asleep to his deep, calming voice reading Goodnight Moon, his daughter snuggled in your arms.

**********

You groggily woke up way too the next morning with Sarah on the other side of you, somehow she had rolled over you and gotten to the other side, still snuggled up to you. You smiled a little at the thought. Allie used to do that too. How wonderful to be young and able to sleep so soundly to the point that you could literally roll over someone and not wake up.

A small, masculine snore properly woke you.

That didn’t come from the little girl in your arms.

Oh shit, whose arm was hugging Sarah over your waist?

Who’s sleeping behind you?

You carefully let Sarah go, and shimmied your way down the bed, under the arm, and slid onto the floor.

Oh crap. Joel Miller was sleeping on the bed. Behind you. His arm was over your waist.

Awkward, right? Yeah…

So, you slowly got out of the open door, and went back to your room.

Joel woke up as you softly shut the door, realizing where he was, feeling the warmth you left on the bed in the space between him and Sarah, wondering what just happened. He fell asleep in Sarah’s room. That much he realized. Did you spend the whole night here too? Had you just woken up? But before he could even think further, Sarah turned and shuffled over into his arms, and he closed his eyes, the smell of his daughter’s hair lulling him back to sleep.

When he woke up about two hours later, you were not in the penthouse. He got ready for his very full day, having agreed to meet some people at breakfast downstairs. You came back in just as he was putting his shirt on, a bag in your hands. He found you in the kitchen, putting fresh fruits away in the fridge, some dried fruits and nuts on the counter. Snacks for Sarah throughout the day, you said. It’s okay, he could go if he needed to, you’ve got Sarah. You’ll bring her down for breakfast when she wakes up.

You didn’t mention anything about the sleeping arrangement, so he didn’t either, thinking that he had just imagined the whole thing. Surely you would say something if that really happened? So, he told you to call him if you needed anything, went to Sarah’s room to kiss her goodbye, and left.

You got Sarah ready; she was excited to spend the day outside. She had seen the elaborate set up for kids the resort had put out for the event and was practically vibrating with excitement. Breakfast first, you said. She pouted, eager to go to the bouncy house, but followed you to the dining hall quietly.

You saw Joel immediately as you walked into the room, chatting with an older man, a cup of coffee in his hands. You went around the buffet, asking Sarah what she wanted for breakfast, to which she pouted and said she wanted to play. You kneeled in front of her and told her if she wanted to play, she needs to be strong. Otherwise she would fall asleep while playing, and we don’t want that, now, would we? She contemplated your words for a bit, her face scrunched up in thought, before telling you she wanted eggs and tomatoes for breakfast. You got some for her and was walking towards an empty table when Tanya spotted you, running a little to get to you.

You got to your table and made sure Sarah started eating. Tanya had taken the seat across from you, asking you what you were doing there, and who you were there with. Sarah asked you if she could have some juice with her milk, and Tanya rolled her eyes at the interruption. You told Sarah she could have juice after she finished eating, and she nodded.

“Come on, who was that delicious hunk from yesterday? Is that your boyfriend?”

You were annoyed that she would ask you questions like that with Sarah sitting right there. She’s three, not deaf.

“What’s a boyfriend?” Sarah asked you.

“Hey, little girl, when adults are talking, you don’t speak, okay? That’s rude.”

You looked at her disbelievingly. Was she serious right now?

“What? It’s true!”

“Please keep your voice down. And what I’m doing here or who I am here with is none of your business, Tanya.”

“Oh, come on, Addie. We’ve known each other forever. I can’t ask you if you’re with someone?”

Her phone rang, and she got up to answer it, moving a few steps away from the table towards the nearest windows.

“Daddy!!!” Sarah squealed.

Joel came to the table and gave Sarah a kiss. He told her he had to go to work, but she has to listen to Miss Addie, okay? Don’t give Miss Addie any trouble?

She nodded excitedly. Joel turned to you, taking something out of his wallet.

“So, you should be able to charge anything to the room with your key, but if that doesn’t work, just use this card, okay? Anything she needs. Don’t be shy to use it for anything you need too,” he said, giving you one of his credit cards, before bending a bit, whispering the pin code to your ears.

Oh… goosebumps.

You just nodded, pocketing the card. He kissed Sarah goodbye one more time, told her to be good, and placed his hand on your shoulder, squeezing lightly, telling you he will see the two of you at lunch.

He was still in your line of sight when Tanya sat back down, a disbelieving and smug look on her face.

“Oh, my, God. You’re his nanny? I knew you didn’t have it in you to get someone that hot. He’s too good for you,” she said, a satisfied look on her face, before placing her elbows on the table.

“So, is he single?”

---

@peelieblue @feenoire @vickie5446

Part 6

[cherryhazee]

Kiss Her You Fool | Luke Hughes

Warnings: Mature language, use of alcohol, and sexual references or implications.

wc: 3.2k

Part 6 of The Art of Loving series

After what felt like the longest road trip of his life, Luke finally found himself back in New Jersey. The comfort of being home didn’t fully sink in as he hauled his bag through his apartment.

He was halfway through unpacking when his phone buzzed in his pocket. His heart skipped a beat as he saw Avery’s name flash across his screen.

Glad you made it back safe. How’s New Jersey treating you so far?

He smiled as he typed a response, his fingers moving quickly.

Feels good to be back. I’ve missed the routine. But I might’ve missed something else too.

He hit send before he could overthink it. The reply came quickly.

Something or someone?

Luke’s heart did a small flip. He couldn’t help but smile, his thoughts turning to the girl who had become, once again after a few years, a quiet but constant presence in his life over the last few months.

Definitely someone.

There was a pause before her next message popped up.

Good answer. So... will I see you at the party next week?

Luke grinned, leaning against a wall. He hadn’t expected to see her this soon, but the thought of spending New Year’s Eve with her made his pulse quicken.

Yeah, I’ll be there. I wasn’t sure if you’d be going.

Her reply came quickly.

The girls kinda roped me in weeks ago. I figured you’d be too tired from the roadtrip for the party.

I wouldn’t miss it.

Before he could slip his phone back into his pocket, another message popped up.

Good. I was hoping to see you :).

Luke felt a warmth spread through him as he typed his next message.

I was hoping to see you too. Counting the days.

He hit send, his heart racing just a little. The anticipation was building, and for the first time all week, he felt a sense of ease settle over him. He couldn’t wait to be with her again.

–

The music pulsed through the room, a blend of bass-heavy beats and laughter from every corner. Luke stood near the bar, sipping his drink with a quiet detachment. He wasn’t much for parties like this, but Jack had insisted he come and Avery would be there. It was New Year’s Eve after all, a night for fresh starts.

Avery stood by the edge of the dance floor, her chestnut hair spilling over her shoulders in loose waves. She wore a sleek black dress, simple yet stunning, paired with golden heels that caught the light as she moved. She was laughing at something one of the guys was saying, her expression bright and unguarded.

Luke froze. His heart did that stupid fluttering thing it always did when he saw her, no matter how much time had passed.

Jack materialized at his side as if summoned by his hesitation. He shot Luke a knowing grin, nudging him with his elbow. “You know, you two are just about the only ones who don’t realize how you look at each other.”

Luke shot him a sidelong glance, not trusting his voice to stay steady. "We’re just friends."

Jack raised an eyebrow. "Don’t you get tired of saying that? You two happen to have this... undeniable chemistry every time you’re in the same room." He paused, giving Luke a mischievous look. “Man, I gotta say, it’s getting kinda obvious. Everyone’s talking about it. The girlfriends even have a bet going on.”

Luke felt heat creeping up his neck. "I don't know what you're talking about," he muttered, his gaze flickering back to Avery, who had just spun around to face him, catching his eye for a brief moment, sending him a wink before turning back to the conversation.

“Dude! She painted the fucking sky from the night of your first date.” He definitely shouldn’t have told him that.

”It wasn’t a date” Luke quickly interrupted.

“That’s not the point and you know it” Jack quickly replied. God his brother was totally blind.

Luke opened his mouth to argue, but the words caught in his throat as Avery started making her way toward him, the crowd parting around her. She reached him with a smile, her presence like a sudden warmth.

“Hey,” she said, her voice light but with that familiar undertone that always made Luke's heart skip. “I thought I saw you standing over here looking like you were about to start a nap. Want to join me for a drink?”

Luke swallowed, trying to act casual. “I’m fine, thanks.”

Avery raised an eyebrow, her gaze flicking between him and Jack. Was this the same guy who a few days prior had told her he was counting the days to see her again?

“You sure? It’s New Year’s Eve, Luke.”

Jack grinned, leaning in a bit too close. “I think he’s just waiting for the perfect moment to be alone with you.”

Luke shot him a glare, but Avery just laughed, her gaze lingering on him a moment too long. "Alright, well, if you change your mind, I'll be over there," she said, her voice sounding small as she turned back to the crowd.

Luke couldn’t help but watch her walk away, the way she moved effortlessly through the room, her golden heels tapping lightly against the floor. Jack was still beside him, practically vibrating with amusement.

"So," Jack started, "when are you going to admit it?"

Luke didn't answer, not sure what there was to admit. Was it that obvious? Would it be so terrible to just let himself admit that he maybe, kind of... wanted more than friendship?

“Clock’s ticking,” Jack said, leaning close so only Luke could hear. “Gotta make your move before midnight.”

Luke swallowed hard. Midnight was coming, and with it, the promise of a new year. He just had to decide if he was brave enough to take the leap.

–

A couple of hours had passed and Luke was yet to approach Avery. Not even the few drinks he had on him could make him make the move.

The music had only gotten louder and the crowd more energetic, but Luke stood there, nursing his drink, stuck in his own head. The whole party felt like a blur. He kept glancing at Avery, but she was lost in conversation with his friends and teammates, her laughter bright, her smile even wider.

How had they gotten here? So many times, he thought he'd almost said something, but then it was always too late.

Luke couldn’t shake the image of that moment at her apartment, the way her lips had almost brushed his, how the air between them had changed. It felt like a lifetime ago, but in reality, it was only a few weeks. Still, the memory was enough to make his heart ache with longing. The almost kiss. They’d both backed away. He was unsure. What if he messed this up?

The clock on the wall behind him blinked closer to midnight, the seconds ticking away, each one mocking him. The world seemed to be holding its breath. Half an hour til midnight.

Luke watched Avery again. This time, she was glancing over her shoulder, her expression softer, more knowing. Something had shifted. Her gaze lingered, just for a moment longer than it should have.

The seconds kept ticking away.

Luke stepped away from the bar, the weight of his hesitation sinking in deeper. He couldn't stay like this forever. His eyes scanned the room one more time, but before he could dwell on the situation, he found himself moving toward Curtis, who was standing near the champagne table.

“Rusty!” Curtis spotted him almost immediately, his face lighting up with a knowing grin. “You look like a man who’s trying to avoid something,” he said, raising his cup toward him in greeting.

Luke gave a small, strained smile, leaning against the table next to Curtis. “Yeah, I guess you could say that.”

Curtis cocked his head, clearly curious. “Avoiding something? Or someone?”

Luke looked over at the dance floor where Avery was, her smile so effortlessly magnetic. “I don’t know what I’m doing,” he admitted, running a hand through his hair. “I keep thinking about... everything that’s happened. What if I mess this up? We have such an amazing friendship going on…” He hesitated before continuing, “I don’t know if I can just... risk it,” Luke muttered, his voice barely above a whisper. "I mean, I’ve been avoiding this for so long, and I don’t want to mess things up."

Curtis took a step closer, lowering his voice. “Look, you’ve got something real with her. But if you want more, you’ve got to be willing to risk it. The longer you wait, the harder it’s going to be. She’s not going to just magically know how you feel if you don’t show her.

I’m not saying you need to spill your heart out right this second, but you’ve got to do something, or you’re gonna keep wondering what might’ve been.”

Curtis’s words hung heavy in the air, cutting straight through Luke’s spiral of self-doubt. He knew Curtis was right. Hell, Jack had been saying the same thing for months, teasing him relentlessly about Avery. But hearing it now, in this moment with Avery standing just across the room, radiant and out of reach—it hit differently. More urgently.

Luke exhaled, shaking his head with a quiet laugh. “You’re right. I know you’re right.”

Curtis smirked. “Of course I’m right.”

“No, seriously,” Luke said, straightening up. “I’ve been stuck in my head for months, maybe years, making excuses. I’ve got to—” He glanced across the room toward Avery. “I’ve got to go talk to her.”

Curtis grinned wide, stepping aside with a sweeping gesture. “Then what the hell are you still doing standing here? Go!”

Luke didn’t need to be told twice. His heart pounded as he started weaving through the crowd, eyes locked on Avery. She was still near the dance floor, her laugh floated above the music, bright and familiar pulling him in like a magnet.

Just walk over. It’s not that hard.

Except it was that hard. His mind raced as he made his way through the crowd, replaying their moments together like a film reel on a loop. The late-night conversations. The way she teased him about art. Her smile when she saw him at the rink, bundled up in layers but still radiant. The way she’d looked at him that night in her apartment, their almost-kiss lingering between them.

It wasn’t just a crush anymore. He was in deep.

He moved faster, weaving past clusters of people, but the party seemed determined to work against him.

“Yo, Lukey!”

Luke’s head snapped up, spotting Brett near the bar. His teammate waved him over, his grin wide and sloppy. He was clearly a few drinks in, already flushed from champagne and laughter. “Come do a shot with us, man!”

Luke gave a quick shake of his head, backing away. “Not now. I’ve got… uh, something to do.”

But Brett wasn’t letting him off that easy. He stumbled closer, throwing an arm around Luke’s shoulder. “Come on, it’s New Year’s Eve! You’ve gotta celebrate!”

“I’ll catch you later,” Luke said, prying himself free.

Brett squinted at him, then followed his gaze toward the dance floor. His grin turned knowing. “Ohhh. I see.”

Luke didn’t bother answering. He was already moving again, dodging another group of people passing out noise-makers and party hats. The clock was ticking, each second slipping through his fingers faster than he could catch it.

Each interruption felt like a small eternity, and with every delay, his anxiety climbed higher.

Come on, come on...

But fate seemed intent on making him wait longer.

“Luke!”

Another voice. This time it was Dawson, cutting through the crowd to greet him with a quick bro hug. “Where’ve you been, man? Haven’t seen you all night.”

“I’ve been around,” Luke muttered, already looking past him toward the dance floor. Avery was still there, her head tilted in laughter. Jesper’s fiancee leaned in, saying something to her, but Avery’s gaze drifted, like she was scanning the crowd.

Their eyes met.

Luke froze. For a second, everything else melted away. The noise. The crowd. The distractions.

It was just Avery.

His heart thudded harder with each step, adrenaline coursing through his veins. The party felt like a maze, bodies shifting and moving around him, every second feeling like an eternity.

The countdown clock near the DJ booth read 11:54.

Six minutes.

Luke’s pulse quickened. His fingers flexed at his sides as he made his way toward Avery, his path finally clearing.

Then—

“Champagne?”

A server appeared out of nowhere, thrusting a tray of glasses toward him. Luke blinked, startled, before shaking his head. “No, thanks.”

Finally, after what felt like forever, he broke free from the crowd and reached the edge of the dance floor.

Avery was gone.

Panic flared in his chest.

No. No, no, no!

His eyes darted around the room, scanning for any sign of her. The crowd shifted and swayed with the music, voices growing louder as the countdown drew closer. He spotted Jack near the bar, laughing with a group of friends. Curtis was still at the champagne table, arm draped around his wife's shoulder.

And then—

There she was.

Near the hallway, just outside the bathroom door, Avery stood with her back against the wall, tapping her golden heel softly against the floor. Her back was turned, but he’d recognize her anywhere. The tilt of her head, the way she shifted her weight, the calm patience in her stance as she waited for the bathroom to free up. It was all so distinctly Avery.

Luke exhaled in relief, his chest loosening.

Five minutes.

This was it. No more interruptions. No more waiting.

As he got closer, Avery glanced over her shoulder, catching sight of him out of the corner of her eye. She looked surprised to see him, but there was something else in her expression too, something curious. Something hopeful.

He stopped a few feet from her, nerves bubbling up again. His hands flexed at his sides, sweat gathering in his palms.

“Avery,” he called out softly, his voice cutting through the distant hum of music and chatter from the party.

She turned fully toward him, her eyes locking on his. “Hey.” Her voice was warm, familiar. It steadied him.

Luke stepped closer, feeling the weight of every unsaid word hanging between them. “I’ve been meaning to talk to you,” he said, his voice quieter now, but steady.

Avery tilted her head, studying him with that same calm curiosity she always had. “Yeah?”

“Yeah.” His pulse raced. Now or never.

The bathroom door opened, and someone slipped past Avery, giving Luke a quick glance before disappearing back into the party. Avery glanced at the door briefly, then back to Luke, a soft laugh escaping her lips.

“Are you cutting the bathroom line, or is this about something else?” she teased lightly, her eyes sparkling.

Luke smiled despite the knot of nerves tightening in his chest. “Something else.”

The crowd in the main room erupted into cheers as the final minutes melted into seconds.

The countdown clock glowed from across the room.

11:59.

The energy shifted, growing more electric, more urgent. But Luke barely noticed. “I don’t want to wait anymore,” he said quietly.

Avery’s expression softened, the teasing edge fading. “Wait for what?”

Luke took another step closer, his heart hammering.

“You.”

The words were out before he could second-guess them. They hung between them, raw and honest. Avery’s lips parted slightly, her eyes widening in surprise.

The countdown began.

“Ten… nine… eight…”

Luke’s breath hitched. The noise around them blurred into static. It was just her.

“I need to tell you something before midnight,” he murmured, his voice low but urgent.

Avery’s gaze never wavered. “Okay,” she said softly. “I’m listening.”

“Seven… six…”

Luke swallowed hard, taking another step closer.

“I—”

“Five… four…”

The crowd cheered, voices rising in unison, but Luke only saw her.

There was no time.

Luke closed the distance between them in one swift motion, his hand brushing her cheek as he leaned in. Avery’s eyes widened for a quick moment before fluttering shut, her breath hitching as their lips met.

It all melted away. The noise of the party, the countdown, the world beyond them.

Her lips were soft, warm. Everything felt like it finally clicked into place. The years of longing, the months of tension, the lingering glances, the almost-kisses—it all led to this.

Avery responded instantly, her hands slipping up to his shoulders as she pressed closer. Luke’s heart pounded in his chest, but all he could focus on was her. How right it felt, how long he’d been waiting for this.

His mind was just screaming her name.

Avery. Avery. Avery.

The crowd behind them erupted into cheers as the clock struck midnight. Confetti burst into the air, streamers flying across the room, but neither of them noticed.

Avery tilted her head, deepening the kiss, her fingers tangling in the nape of his neck twisting his curls. Luke let out a groan, his grip tightening on her waist, pulling her closer until there was no space left between them.

When the cheers grew louder and people started spilling into the hallway, Luke’s mind snapped back. They needed to move, needed privacy, needed to not have their moment interrupted.

Without breaking the kiss, he gently tugged her toward the bathroom door, pushing it open and pulling them both inside. The door clicked shut behind them, muffling the sounds of the party outside.

Avery broke the kiss for a second, breathless, her eyes searching his.

“Happy New Year?” she whispered, a teasing smile tugging at her lips.

Luke let out a shaky laugh, resting his forehead against hers. “Happy New Year.”

Their lips met again, more urgently this time. Luke backed her against the counter, his hands sliding down to her waist, feeling the fabric of her dress beneath his fingers as he moved it upwards.

He then moved his lips to her neck. Avery tugged him closer, tilting her head back to give him more access.

Luke’s lips brushed her lips before trailing down to her neck, his breath warm against her skin. Avery closed her eyes, her head tilting back to give him more access, a quiet moan escaping her when he nipped gently at her skin.

He couldn’t believe this was happening. He couldn’t believe he’d waited this long.

When they finally pulled apart, both of them breathless, Avery traced her fingers along his jaw, her touch soft and grounding.

“I’ve been waiting for you to do that,” she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Luke laughed softly, shaking his head. “You have no idea.”

She smiled, her eyes shining. “I think I do.”

For a moment, they just stood there, the weight of what had just happened settling between them. The tension that had simmered for months was gone, replaced by something new.

“I guess we missed the countdown,” Luke murmured, a playful grin tugging at his lips.

Avery shrugged, her fingers still tracing slow circles on his chest. “Who needs a countdown anyway?”

Luke leaned in, pressing another kiss to her lips, this time slower, savoring every second.

It was a new year, a fresh start, but neither of them could have imagined what this year had in store.

[haikyuubby]

I LOVE YOU HOE! ; danganronpa v3 boys

“no one would look good with me, but you.”

❀ - fluff, relationship headcannons

featuring: shuichi, kokichi, rantaro, and korekiyo.

· · ────── ੈ✩‧₊˚ ────── · ·

· · ────── ੈ✩‧₊˚ ────── · ·

shuichi saihara

such a good bf

takes a few months to get comfortable with you, but once he does the love he gives you is amazing.

he’s the definition of “a shoulder to cry on”

gives you the best advice whenever you come to him with issues, he only wants what’s best for you.

loves to give you kisses on the back of your hand, shoulder, and forehead.

becomes a great kisser after a few months of being together.

not the best with his words, but always knows how to say the right things.

“ i’m really glad that we’re dating, i don’t know where i’d be without you. “

kokichi ouma

good luck with this one

he’s the type to boast about being the perfect significant other, when in reality…

he likes to get you unpractical gifts.

like he somehow found a real life thneed and gave it to you?

is always touching you in some way, likes to piggyback ride you and hold your hand.

enjoys when you guys watch scary movies together, he finds them hilarious.

lowkey bad at comforting you but somehow it works?

swears he’s the best kisser in the world but he highkey just shoves his tongue down your throat aggressively

“ we’re so perfect together! there’s no one that i’d rather be with! “

rantaro amami

perfect

he’s probably the most normal out of the bunch when it comes to relationships.

he’s experienced, so he knows what to say or do in most situations.

loves to kiss your neck or cheeks, he’s just so romantic.

never forgets your guys’ anniversary, and he always treats you like he did when you guys first got together

the love never dies with this dude

enjoys playing, braiding, or combing out your hair (hair type don’t matter with him)

“ you’re so perfect, i’m glad that we found each other. “

korekiyo shinguji

a true romantic

the type of guy that would keep a picture of you in his wallet.

he’s not so much into pda, but in private he’s the most affectionate person ever.

likes to give you vintage gifts, such as old trinkets or books.

enjoys when you play with his hair.

likes to draw on your hands/arms if you let him.

big fan of candlelit dinners and cooking together.

“ i hope to find you in each lifetime, i can’t imagine being apart from you. “

[tommygotwrittenoff]

hen winning the buddie betting pool is the easy choice, but bobby winning is the right choice. hr red flags aside, it would allow for a parallel to 2x01. buck could ask, "you okay with this?" "well, i did technically hire him to be your partner. i don't have any doubts you two will be great life partners as well."

[lesbiansanemi]

I’m not like, surprised that I’m like The edgy cannibalism guy atp but it’s really amusing to me. Glad I’ve found my niche I guess

[seventh-district]

so uh. that 2.2 Special Program, huh

[miss-morland]

i hope your partner isn’t more than a year older than you jeez together with the same person for 9 years as a 26 year old? you deserved to be in the club….

1) none of those facts is correct (at time of sending, i just turned 26 today) so i’m assuming this was to the wrong blog

2) we go to the club together

[theheadlessgroom]

@beatingheart-bride

"Maybe..." Randall murmured, still perplexed by Renfield's reaction-all the time he'd known the little guy, he'd been friendly to everyone, even people who didn't like him. Minnie constantly scooted him and the other strays away, but Renfield adamantly rubbed up against her legs when she was out on the sidewalk, undeterred by her dislike for him. So for him to just randomly get all worked up about someone he'd never met before was just...odd.

Still, he tried to brush it off-he also didn't miss the way Emily put on a smile and tried to laugh it off, a part of his heart sensing she was a little hurt by this response. Hoping to make her feel better about it, he said, "I'm sure he's just having an off day; don't take it too personally. I've had cats crawl all over me one day and want nothing to do with me the next, it's just how they are. Renny will probably be back later-maybe he'll be in a better mood by then."

"Since when did you get two lunchbreaks, Randy?"

"Just having a little something extra, Dave," Randall groaned, pausing to grab a napkin as he finished his sandwich, just as one of his coworkers had come downstairs for a smoke break-Dave was one of the more irritating coworkers he had to put up with on a daily basis; he insisted he was just an easy-going guy who liked a good joke, but his jokes were often hurtful and very seldom funny. Considering his idea of comedy was calling Randall "Randy" (which he had never gone by, even as a boy, and couldn't hardly stand as a nickname), it told him a lot about Dave's sense of humor (or lack thereof).

"And can I help you find anything, beautiful?" Dave asked, having noticed Emily and put on a smile, leaning up against the counter, his cigarette tucked behind his ear. "Maybe a date for Friday night? Pretty flower like you shouldn't have to hang out with a real weed like ol' Randy here."

[victory-cookies]

the only irl friend I have that I feel comfortable actually talking about the things I enjoy with just insulted me for gushing about smth to her over snap last night and now I want to cry

[reblogging-random-stuff-i-like]

PREV

okay we need some positivity rn so let's play a game and please say something nice to the person who reblogged this

[drchucktingle]

the curve

somehow ive found myself in a position where folks come to chuck in times of strife for encouragement. lets get the big part of this conversation out of the way LOVE IS STILL REAL and that is the thing to remember. that north star remains. today there is more to talk about though

existence pushes towards love community and freedom, because CREATION is what we were built to do and creation thrives with these things as fuel. IT GETS BETTER. LOVE IS REAL. however this change comes in up and down waves. its not a straight line and should not be expected to be

some of these waves are short and small, and some of the slopes are years or decades long. there is no mincing words here, we are entering a massive downward wave. the implications are huge and it is okay to mourn that. FEEL THOSE FEELINGS. it is an important part of the ride

the most telling sign post on our slope is this: tromp won the popular vote (or likely will when the votes are done). we can talk POLITICAL STRATEGY all day about electoral college or who should court the center or the left and on and on but ultimately THIS is the real story

to me it signals a TRUE cultural shift. likely conservatives will have presidency, senate, house, and supreme court. WHAT A GIANT SLOPE. HOLD THE HECK ON because we will be riding it for a while, deep into the pit of the void. hold your buds tight, prove love at the local level

but heres the thing, MASSIVE waves have happened before. theyll happen again. mind numbing slopes into the abyss and great soaring leaps into the sky. in fact the inertia almost ALWAYS causes them to happen right after each other. hippies or punks back in the day, buckaroos now

politically we were trapped in a basically fifty fifty trot for a long time, but it was not always like this (just look at old election maps what the heck). to be honest, tromps map looks like one of those old maps right now. and DANG did COUNTER MOVEMENTS blooms from those times

in other words, THERE WILL BE A COUNTER CULTURE MOVEMENT THAT WE HAVE NEVER SEEN BEFORE IN OUR LIFETIMES. you are now a rebel for the resistance and the wave that will swing back towards love will awe us in ways we cannot even imagine yet.

but for now, feel those feelings, mourn, prove love, stay safe. do not let the hope i am espousing feel like a distraction from the very real, even deadly consequences of the terrible pit we are plummeting into. it is a horrible day, and FUTURE HOPE does not diminish that, BUT

get ready because that counter culture wave is coming and YOU are a part of it. if you want to shout HECK OFF DEVILS then shout it LOUD, if you want to cry then cry HARD, if you want to love then love with your WHOLE HEART. thats the start of the movement that we dont know yet

when that movement takes shape we will feel the inertia of the curve and it may make us sick from the rollercoaster turn, and that pressure will be uncomfortable and scary, but THEN buckaroo, we will soar, and ill be so dang glad to be holding on tight with you when we do

[arolesbianism]

hello gamers minor life update I have been doing Real bad lately so I will likely continue to be very inactive, but hey on the bright side I have been fleshing out some eternal gales lore I reworked a while back and I can happily say that Dodie no longer completely contradicts the very nature of reality in eternal gales and the fog tower™ officially has a real reason to exist again so hell yeah to that