#so I wonder if he genuinely thought she wasn’t smart enough or thought she was mentally fragile

[volvolts]

I wonder what jimmy was thinking when he thought why Anya failed getting into medical school

When we learn this part of her life I actually thought the reason she struggled getting in was actually because she was easily squeamish. We’re still early into the game at this point and I didn’t really know why she was so uncomfortable feeding curly painkillers and just figured she gets easily stressed out or something which was why she never got in

[verstappenf1lecccc]

Hi lovely. Can you please do mafia Charles and he’s very protective over reader who’s younger than him and maybe his enemies hurt her and he goes crazy or smth — F1driverszona

Protection

babe asked so she shall receive, I swear I’ve never written a fic this quickly I hope y’all’s like it 🎀

*Perceval*

You know how you look at someone and feel your heart swell with pride and joy? That was how Charles was feeling the exact moment he saw his pretty little girlfriend get her bachelors degree. She looked so gorgeous in the white outfit he had picked with her, so pure and innocent.

Charles genuinely wondered how she hadn’t noticed all the security that constantly followed him. How was he only 27 with an entire estate under his name? It really made Charles ponder. Maybe she noticed but was smart enough to not bring it up.

Regardless, he was the proudest person in the room, eyes beaming with glee as she threw her cap up in the air with joy enriched onto her face. With her only being 20, their relationship was the root of all the gossip in town.

It was strange, really. 7 years wasn’t that bad. He knew her better than anyone, and she knew him the most. He never let such thoughts bother him, especially since he was running one of the most discreet underground mafia. Charles knew the risk of getting her involved in his life. He knew that she would forever be tangled in his dirty business, whether she knew it or not. He hated the way that she drew in people with her charm and charisma.

In Charles' world, more attention meant a higher probability of ending up dead. Just thinking about something happening to her made his blood boil. She’d never be harmed. Little did Charles know that pissing off the Russian Mafia came with its drawbacks. The Russians played fast and dirty. They’d attack where it hurts the most. Due to their undercover agent in her university, they knew exactly who she was. Every little detail from the timings she enters and exits the university to the car that comes to pick and drop her.

The Russians were smart, very smart. They knew the best way to hurt Charles was to hurt his girl. They knew kidnapping would not work as she was heavily guarded at all times. So they came up with a public declaration of war. They were going to attack her at her graduation ceremony, in front of everyone, and most importantly, Charles.

This was their way to send a message. Frankly, ever since y/n and Charles started dating, he was ignoring his priorities with the mafia and appointed most of the tasks to Kyviat, who turned out to be a traitor. Some may say Charles’s lack of attention caused him to lose the most important person in his life. Just as they called out her name, the first shots fired. Almost in an instant, Charles whipped his head so fast you could hear a bone crack. He knew this was planned. He prayed and hoped deep down it wasn’t a message for him. He knew Alonso’s daughter also went here and selfishly hoped it was for him.

All his prayers fell on deaf ears when he saw his precious angel falling, almost in slow motion, with her white dress that he loved oh so much turning ever so red with each passing second. He knew he messed up. He had so much love he still needed to show her. The engagement ring in his pocket felt like hot coal, burning him almost taunting him painfully. He had everything planned out, each moment, each step. He never expected her to be ripped out of his arms. He had destroyed homes and families.

He knew he had unpaid karma. And just when he started becoming a better person, he had to pay his karma in full. They say the day she bled out in his arms was the day hell froze all over again. Each of her deep and labored breaths haunted his soul for the rest of his life. He still had days where he could imagine her next to him. If people thought Charles was cruel before the shooting, they would be very wrong.

Seeing the love of his life lying still on a ventilator enraged a different type of devil in him. He hunted each and everyone involved in the shooting like he was hunting animals. He shot, stabbed, burned, bleached, skinned, and mutilated each and everyone. It was borderline psychotic. By day, a doting boyfriend in the ICU. By night, a cold-blooded killer on the loose.

Each morning when he returned, he would utter the same words over and over again, “ça aurait dû être moi, pas toi, ça aurait dû être moi, ma chérie, pas toi. je suis désolé je suis désolé.”

Charles had lost it. More than ever, his reign of terror only ended when she opened her eyes again. He never touched another gun or affiliated with the mafia ever again.

The both of them found a safe haven in the Swiss Alps, only returning to Monaco when everything was over, Charles becoming the most protective person ever known to have lived. His large hand placed on her ever prominent belly. Monaco saw the aftermath of what happens when you mess with Charles Leclercs wife. That was the only incident that ever involved y/n. Charles made sure of it after all she was his and he protected what was his. His overprotective nature plus his power made sure she was safe.

[thatnonameuser]

You said something about Azul's darling having children healing his childhood trauma. ANGST WARNING!! AND BULLYING!

This gave me an idea, he was bullied for being slow and different from other kids from the original plot. In this yandere au, that can be twisted into how he's such a loser, he'll probably never be good enough for a darling to accept him. He's so fat, not even a kind and pitiful darling, would want him. How the other mers think he's so stupid that he'd fumble trying to catch his darling and that they'll just be claimed by another, cooler, yandere. Laughing at him all the while so and flexing how their wonderful talents and skills would be enough to steal away a darling's heart, unlike him.

I can imagine how much this'll break his self esteem and brand him as a "weak yandere" to the other fishies. Azul would strive to be the opposite of all this, he would plan to take away their special abilities to "win a darling over" and make it his own, as his unique magic forms through sheer spite. He's so jaded and the thoughts of not being good enough to have a darling still ingrained in him. He probably won't fall in love with MC until after his overblot. Having the internal belief that, no darling would want a loser like him.. He probably won't care that MC is a darling at first and is just planning to use her as leverage against the other yanderes. Hence, taking over her only place to live. It benefits him as well since he'll be able to open another branch of the Mostro lounge and attract the other yanderes.

But then something changes. MC does something while they are inside the blot space. He realizes that.. she sees more in him than anyone ever had. Even if MC says so only in passing cause she's reasonably pissed- He can't help but focus on those specific words, ignoring the rest of her rant. Suddenly, he feels whole, and he knows she doesn't want to share this feeling with anyone. Suddenly...

He's already drafting a contract after their visit in the coral sea museum, giggling to himself as he marks that day their first date....

I hope you find this idea as interesting as I did!! I love Azul 😁

I really love asks for the yandereverse, because there are so many ways that the charas’ backstories can change. Azul’s bullying making him insecure when it comes to his darling is perfect, and it kind of works with how the Coral Sea sees yanderes and darlings. I also love Azul, I love me an evil mafia man.

The Coral Sea is an anti-darling rights area, so yanderes have more freedom to do what they want in order to take their darlings for themselves. And yanderes are supposed to be strong and tough, how else do they keep their darlings safe and with them? The kids of the Coral Sea know that well. 

And Azul wasn’t that. He was slow, and weak and a scaredy-catfish crybaby who hid inside a pot. HE was supposed to be a yandere? That was genuinely surprising to nearly all his former classmates. And they made sure he knew that. Their teasing was relentless….

‘Are you sure they weren’t wrong? You’re not supposed to be slow and stupid if you’re like us.’

‘He’ll probably lose his darling.’

‘I’d hate to be them, he’s so fat and icky.’

….And at the same time they rub salt into the wound. After all, they’re fast and strong and smart and talented and good looking. They’ll get their darlings no problem, while he will be left alone and broken hearted watching his darling being with someone else. All the bullying broke him down over a while, he started to think it was right. 

But despite all the bullying, Azul still tries his hardest to stop being the weak yandere his peers deemed him as. And in a form of vengeance, he’ll take away the special abilities they shoved in his face to remind him how inferior he was, After all, the yanderes that bullied him have their own insecurities that they want to hide from their darlings, so he’ll take their very best away to make himself better for his future darling. He’ll make himself better so that whoever he falls for won’t have to be disgusted by him. (While making his bullies as disgusting to their darlings as they said he’d be .)

But… He just can’t forget the years of bullying ingrained into him. What darling would want him? What darling would love him when he’s just a dim-witted octopus? That denial blinds him up till when he finally meets you. 

Once he’s aware of you being a darling he sees the opportunity, not love. (Because he doesn’t deserve you, so why bother?). After all, what would all your yanderes do or pay to have you for themselves? No price is too high when it comes to a darling, and so, getting you under his thumb is his first priority. Getting you out of Ramshackle and under his control/ownership will make this so much easier. But there’s one big problem. 

You won’t sign his contracts. You told him you’d rather never go home than sign one. I imagine after that point, he starts trying to find loopholes to get you to sign. And your friends are his best bet. So he tricks Ace, Deuce and Grim into being indebted to him, so that you’ll feel obligated to help them. But that didn’t work, because (to be honest, you’re grateful for the alone time) you just let them be stuck in a contract with him. Fortunately, Crowley got involved and you had to go into a contract with him. 

But unfortunately, instead of accepting his offer to stay at Octavinelle till the time limit was up, you proceeded to stay over in Savanaclaw. He’d never been more angry before in his life. The idea of you sleeping with and doing seven-only-knows with those beasts never made him more jealous. The smell of Leona Kingscholar on your skin made him want to add onto the debt the prince owed in vengeance. 

But not wanting to spoil anything more, in the blot space your attempts to pull him out of his self-loathing, change him. He sees that you care about him, that you don’t think he’s a not a stupid, ugly octopus and that instead you see him as something more. Someone who’s hardworking, intelligent, and even cute. And that moment, he truly realizes his love for you. You’re not like the others, you see something in him that no one ever had before. He doesn’t get that you’re saying it only for the sake of your, and maybe a little of his, life. Those words echo in his head. You love him, all his bullies were wrong, his darling isn’t disgusted by him. He feels whole….

…..And he doesn’t want to share this feeling. This complete joy.

He needs you to be his. He’ll draft another contract, one intended to make sure no one else will ever be able to steal you from him and ensure you’ll be by his side, on the land and in the sea. The museum will be like a date to him, hearing your kind words about his childhood appearance makes that younger self cry with joy.

You, quite literally, became the center of his world. And he intends to hold that same place as he becomes a part of your world. Whether you like it or not.

[feroshgirlsims]

Chapter 5.4 - Conspiracies of the Nether Regions

MIKO

“What kind of place is this?” Miko demands, panic building as she looks around the posh setting. 

“A coffee shop,” Emmett holds her hand and refuses to stop walking, forcing her to follow along. 

“This is not a coffee shop,” she murmurs as they walk through another set of doors. 

Plants and string lights stretched from floor to ceiling, fountains bubble, and a few sims talk to each other in low voices. She glances back at the honest-to-Watcher grand piano they just passed. 

“They serve coffee,” Emmett insists with a chuckle, “That makes it a coffee shop. Although in the evenings, they open the bar. I come here with my friends.”

He says it like it’s no big deal, telling Miko everything she needs to know about Emmett and his financial status. Numbly, she follows him, croaking out her order when asked, and waits for the voice in her head to say something.

Anything.

Any-fucking-thing at all.

But nothing happens, and of course, it doesn’t. That’s the thing about being crazy, it’s unpredictable. Maybe now is a good time to freak out about losing her wits. She can just get up and—

"Relax. You’re not crazy," the voice says.

“Oh, that’s so comforting,” Miko scowls, forgetting to talk in her head.

Emmett doesn’t respond at first. But once he settles them at a table, he tilts his head, a smile ghosting at the corner of his mouth. It’s not unkind, exactly, just amused. “So, what’s your deal? And I’m not trying to be a smart ass, I’m genuinely asking.”

"Go on," the voice encourages, "Tell him."

“I’m not sure what you mean,” Miko sniffs, ignoring the voice. She takes a sip of her coffee. “I don’t have a deal.”

Emmett blows out a breath. “Miko, you definitely have a deal. You’re hard to get a read on. And that’s probably understating it. You hate Hande and me, but you want our help. Or you don’t want it, I guess, since you complained but then volunteered to do it all yourself. I mean, you said yes to coffee, but you’re not even paying attention.”

At that, Miko makes a mental note to be kinder to Alice next time she zones out. Although, to be fair, Alice isn’t zoning out because she hears a voice in her head and is having a breakdown. She’s just flighty. 

“You’re clearly stressed,” his eyes soften, “And you won’t talk about it.”

There are no alarm bells, not like there were with Walsh. And Emmett has been trying to be nice to her since the beginning of the semester. Alice was her best friend, yes, but she couldn’t handle Miko falling apart. Not when she was so vulnerable. 

Hell, she’d probably ask Vladislaus for help.

“You look like you just had a thousand thoughts.”

“I did. I…I am a little stressed out," Miko admits. When Emmett laughs, she relaxes. “Ok, I’m a lot stressed out. My grandma just informed me we need a new water heater, but I don’t have a job this semester because I was hoping to get an internship. I’m graduating, but I can’t even focus on my shit because my best friend is on the verge of failing out. I’m tired, and I don’t trust anyone, which is why I’m such a bitch, and I do everything myself.”

“You’re not a bitch,” he says, “And that sounds like a lot. No wonder you’re stressed out.”

“Wow.”

“Wow, what?”

“I wasn’t expecting that. Usually, when I talk about everything I have going on, my friends try to minimize it. Or tell me that I’m worrying about shit that ain't my problem.”

Emmett shrugs, “I don’t know you or your problems well enough to say that. They seem legit to me. Home appliance repairs are expensive. I guess the question is, do you want help?”

The word makes Miko cringe. “I’m not trying to offend you when I say this,” she begins.

“I hope not. You don’t even know what I’m going to offer.”

The speech she planned evaporates. “Uh…okay. Fair. What are you offering?”

“I’ll convince Hande to lower her pitchfork and work on the submission system training together.”

“And I have a lead on a job. Honestly, it would be a favor to get a family friend off my back. She owns an apothecary shop in Glimmerbrook and needs some part-time staff. It would be a lot of selling expensive gems and fake potions to sims who want to heal their energy or mend a broken heart or whatever,” he rolls his eyes playfully.

Miko suppresses a giggle. “I could do that. I’m very convincing.”

“Good. Then it’s settled. You know, if we hang around for another forty-five minutes, Happy Hour will start. You in?”

She worries about the cost of drinks, and when she realizes that Emmett will probably pay for everything, she worries about using him. But outside her circle of worry is a feeling from the voice in her head that maybe just this once, she should relax. 

“Sounds good,” Miko says. “What’s your favorite drink?”

PREV | NEXT

(Part 4 of 5)

(NGL @herecirmsims saved this entire scene with those bar table poses. I was afraid I would be stuck raising everyone with WW or the tool Mod 😭)

[sophswritingthings]

You are evil, sososososo evil because now Mizu calling reader princess is stuck in MY head too! 😭😭Also I didn’t know about that ab hydrangeas and I think their symbolism is quite fitting for that Drabble!!!

So what if mizu and noblewoman!reader were playing a game of Go (the board game we saw seki and akemi play), with lots of smart quips and teasing (SUCH AS MIZU CALLING READER PRINCESS AAAAAA) on each end. But little does reader know, she’s actually abysmal at playing and Mizu has been purposefully keeping the game going for as long as possible by losing pieces

But then reader teases mizu/says something that genuinely distracts her and because mizu was making sure they were on par with eachother, the reader actually wins the game because of how distracted mizu got imagining what reader just said

But because mizu is defensive as hell she quickly snaps out of it and says how she intended to keep the game going because of how reader is so bad, and if reader really wanted to beat Mizu, maybe mizu could “tutor” her in private 👀

pairing: mizu x fem!noblewoman!reader

warning(s): light swearing, god the flirting is palpable and they are idiots

a/n: EVIL????? LMAO. as a writer it is my job to get you invested so you leave more work for me to do!! I do what must be done!!

summary: playing a game of go with mizu, the tension is palpable. the samurai keeps strong, but it’s quick before you break her.

word count: 425 words / 2,257 characters 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“mizu,” you began, moving your white piece to the spot before it. “I am starting to wonder if you actually know how to play.”

you arch an eyebrow at her.

“of course I know how to play,” she hisses, moving her piece to a spot she probably shouldn’t have.

mizu did know how to play. In fact, she wasn’t half bad at it, either it.

she was truly trying to keep the game going for as long as she could.

“I used to play with my sword-father.” she kept her gaze focused on the board, trying to know where you (and she) should place your pieces.

“ah, I see,” you nod your head. “so he taught you, then?”

“yes he did,” mizu murmured.

“well—“ you chuckled, placing your piece directly atop of hers, circling it. “he wasn’t a very good player.”

she scoffed, “I will have you know, princess, he was a fine player.”

“just not good enough,” you giggle as you slid her white piece of the board.

she took in a sharp inhale, moving to also capture one of your pieces.

despite all of your teasing and confidence, she knew you were actually shit at the game.

she’d seen you play with a friend of yours, before. a few times, actually.

never had you won one game.

“hmm, maybe I’m a bit too distracting for your own good, mizu?” you smirked at her, giggling as you saw her face light up.

mizu was stunned, by your words. she didn’t know what to make of them, she truly didn’t.

“ha!” your yelp snapped her out of her thoughts, “I win!”

her eyes widened, big as the sun, staring down at the board.

you were right. you had won.

her eyes narrowed, directing her gaze back up at you.

“bullshit—I was trying to keep the game going so we could talk.” she grumbled.

“hm, yes? Is that true?” you laughed, “are you sure about that?”

“yes, princess, I’ve seen you play before.” she chuckled herself, “I know you can’t play for shit.”

“hm,” you crossed your arms across your chest, that smirk plastered on your face never dipping, “why don’t you teach me, then.”

the proposition sounded.. interesting, to say the least.

sure, she’d taught you things before—a bit with her sword, how to shoot a bow and arrow.

but getting to spend long periods of one-on-one time with you?

that sounded like music to her ears.

“alright,” she conceded. “I’ll tutor you.”

you nod, gathering your feet and bowing to her.

“tomorrow. same time.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[blueberry-bubbles130]

I saw Vengeance Most Fowl tonight. I love Wallace and Gromit and I’d say the special was okay. I did enjoy it, but to me it didn’t match up to the other ones.

I liked the police officer lady, she was really cool. And her eyeshadow was lovely. And seeing Feathers McGraw again was great, he was amazing and I loved every moment he was screen. Gromit being amazing as always. He looked so adorable in his motorcycle outfit. He’s my favourite character. the farmer from Shaun the Sheep making an appearance was fun to spot. Ben Whitehead has gotten really good at replicating Peter Sallis’s voice.

Apart from that though I didn’t have much that I found interesting. I feel like having the explosion of the boat was a bit much and didn’t really fit with Wallace and Gromit. And I didn’t like how it was Wallace not believing Gromit again. It felt just repetitive.

There were elements of the plot that reminded me of things from prior specials. Obviously Feathers McGraw made his return. His use of hijacking Wallace’s inventions. The mechanical trousers and then the Norbots. And while it wasn’t hijacking in A Close Shave. The Norbots when they were evil, really reminded me of Preston in A Close Shave with him being evil. it’s still weird for me to see all those extra background people. I’m use to the streets being barren with no people and just the houses and other shops.

As stated prior the thing I didn’t like the most was Wallace not believing Gromit. By this point it’s repetitive. Sure in A Close Shave, Wallace believed Gromit had done the sheep rustling. But he felt really upset and genuinely cared enough to go and break him out of prison. Whereas in Vengeance Most Fowl Wallace was really dismissive of Gromit up until like the final 10 minutes.

And with the way that everyone thought Wallace had been stealing peoples things, I thought it was going to be similar to A Close Shave where Gromit briefly went to prison because Preston framed him. But instead of Gromit, it would be Wallace going to prison. Feathers is definitely smart enough to be able to frame Wallace, like Preston. It would’ve been fun to see another prison break with Gromit breaking Wallace out of prison. The finale with the canal boats with super cool though.

I don’t know what they’re planning to do with Feathers McGraw after this. By now he’s actually been the main villain three times in the Wallace and Gromit series. Including the game Project Zoo. He gets away in this special so are they thinking of him bringing back in a potential future special or just never bringing him back. Because by now I think he’s the only Wallace and Gromit villain to still be around and evil. Preston obviously got minced up then rebuilt to be hood again. Piella got eaten. And Victor got chased away by the towns folk. Anyway if they do make another in like 10 years, it’ll be interesting to see what they come up with.

Also a very very minor nitpick that makes me sound like a massive snob, but the diamond wasn’t blue in the original. It’s a clear diamond, so I wonder why that was changed. Because the diamond couldn’t have been swapped with them being two different colours.

Overall though I’d give it a 7/10 and it’s worth watching. Especially if you’re a Wallace and Gromit fan.

[peterparkerluvr]

2+2 | Peter Parker

(gif from @sacharinee)

mature content! 18+

pairing: Peter Parker x Reader

Synopsis: Studying with Peter goes exactly right.

content warnings: steamy make out, swearing, sexual content, suggestive dialogue, Adam Sandler.

word count: 1620+

A/N: Hi! This is my first EVER smut, I hope you like it<3

It wasn’t my idea to study for Algebra, it never was. If I had a choice I would abolish Algebra from every school curriculum and burn every math textbook on the Earth, but of course that wasn’t possible.

“Ok, now that we have the x-intercept, we can just insert the y value from the center and finish the equation!” 

“I have no clue what you just said,” Peter’s exasperated sighs fill my ears as I complain about his teaching, “I am just so sorry, I genuinely cannot do math.”

“Yes you can, you’re very smart and very capable and not everyone can add, so it is a-okay!” Sarcasm laces his tone, a humorous glint twinkling in his eye as he sends a cheeky grin my way.

“Ha. I know how to add, 2+2 is equal to 4!” He couldn’t hold in a laugh then, dissolving my prior confidence.

“On that note, let’s take a break!” Peter closed his open notes and pushed the notebooks to his side, stretching from his position.

As he lifts his arms above his head, the edge of his Midtown sweatshirt lifts upwards, exposing his skin and giving me a peek of the definition below. Lean muscle stretches across his abdomen, tensing with every move. His impressive v-line cutting into his torso, deep enough to lap water from-

“Uh, you okay?” his awkward chuckles interrupt my ogling,

“Yeah, yeah.” Spluttering out an excuse, I draw my eyes away from his very rock-hard abdominals and decide to intently stare at the thread hanging from his comforter.

“Let’s watch a movie or something?” He couldn’t hide his unmistakable blush as it crept from the round of his cheeks and flushed towards his chest, oh how I wish I could graze my fingertips across the pink tint on his upper body and-

“Good idea! What are you thinking?” I mention, focusing on his words and pretending to not be soaking wet for my best friend, I quickly dismiss the thoughts plaguing my mind.

“I feel like watching a comedy, take my mind off all the calculations,” He said while scrolling for the perfect piece of entertainment, 

“Besides, anything will be better than those stupid graphing videos she forces down our throats.” 

His soft brown eyes catch mine as they crinkle at the sides, his soft pink lips just begging to touch mine. Leaving me wondering just what other part of him wants to be touched, what other soft, pink things I can-

“Ahem, how about ‘Grownups’? I need a little Adam Sandler in my life right now.” I suggested, I need to rein in my thoughts and I need to do it ASAP.

“Perfect, just what I was thinking. Good job, you’ve found something you’re good at, movie suggestions!” Peter nudged me with his elbow as I moved to climb beside him in his bed.

His very small twin bed where just sitting side by side our thighs were molded together and I could hear his strong, steady heartbeat and his deep breathing.

This boy is going to be the death of me.

He pushes his pillows in an upright position behind us and moves an arm behind my shoulders to create a more comfortable position. His nimble fingers gently squeeze my shoulder as he looks down to catch my eye in an innocent smile.

He has to know what he’s doing to me.

He leans forward to press play on his laptop in front of us, slipping his hold from my shoulder to my waist, slightly pressing his palm into my torso. He shifts back into his former place, bucking his hips upward to settle into the bed.

Many expletives are running through my mind right now.

As the movie begins, all I can focus on are the curls of his hair resting against his forehead. The creamy red tint of his lips run through my mind as I imagine every place on my body I want his mouth to touch. I thought of his even breaths becoming aroused grunts and breathy moans, I imagined his soft voice becoming thick with pleasure and whimpering begs falling past his lips. 

The taut string wound between my thighs pulled, threatening to snap as I let my mind run wild. I mindlessly rocked into the bed, yearning for friction to ease my discomfort. 

Peter’s obnoxious laugh startled me out of my fantasy,

“I forgot how much I love this movie!” His pink lips pulled in a grin exposing his straight teeth, a sliver of his tongue resting between.

“Peter.” My resolve was weakening and I couldn’t resist the need to hear his name pass through my mouth.

“A-Are you okay, Y/N?” His gaze passes from my lips to my eyes, his voice becoming low and small.

“Can I just try something really fast?” My heartbeat quickened its pace as I struggled to gain the confidence to make a move.

His tiny nod my confirmation, I turned to face him and pulled my legs underneath me. Gulping down my fear and apprehension, I focus on the perfect boy sitting in front of me. His deep woodsy eyes boring into mine, his face twisted into one of confusion and a bit of excitement.

I move my fingertips to graze the crook of his neck, dipping into his collarbones and watching a soft blush erupt where my finger trails. I press my hands into his shoulders and lower my head to the crook of his neck. I hear his breathing increase as I move my tongue across the velvety expanse of his collarbone.

Peter releases another breath and latches a hand onto my lower back, slightly digging the tips of his fingers into the skin. I lean closer into him, scooting closer and moving my hand to his slender thigh. My tongue sucks on the smooth skin, warranting more quiet groans from Peter.

His hands push into my back, gripping my sides, faintly pulling my body into his. I push off of his shoulders and lift myself to straddle his legs, settling with our limbs tangled together, his thigh resting between mine. I move from his neck to pepper kisses along his jaw, my hips gently grinding on his thigh, easing the desperation in my clothed heat.

“Fuck, you’re so beautiful,” Peter grips my waist and guides my movement, moving a hand to my chin, connecting our lips. His needy tongue invades my mouth, moving his hand to the side of my head, lacing his fingers in my hair. His teeth nip at my lower lip as he continues grinding my cunt along his thigh. 

“Peter,” his name slips from my tongue in whimpers as he continues to let me use his thigh for pleasure. His wet kisses trail down my neck to my collarbone, he kisses into the swell of my breast, sucking gently.

He gently lifts me up and places me directly on his lap, through my position I can feel his erection pressing into my clit through my jeans, applying needed relief to the ache and leading me closer to my peak. His movements become more urgent as he bucks his hips into me, his hardness rubbing against the wetness between my legs.

“You feel so good Y/N, fuck,” His deep beathing becoming throaty grunts, he ruts into my sex as he furthers towards an orgasm. His kisses become urgent as he pushes his fingers into my sides, moving his mouth back to my chest forming hickies and biting into the skin leaving purple bruises on my body.

“Please, Peter,” My head falls to his shoulder, sucking gently on his exposed skin, my nails scratching into his upper back.

“Yeah baby?” His lips move to my jaw as he grips my chin to move my eyes to his, my pupils blown from the pleasure, husky pants leaving my open mouth.

“I’m gonna cum, Peter, please,” His hot mouth connects to mine, connecting in a feverish kiss. Hot and needy, his tongue strokes mine, his hands wrapping around my neck, his fingers pulling me even closer.

“fuck, cum for me baby,” His hand roughly pushes my cunt into his lap, attacking my neck with his tongue. His name drops from my tongue in a chant as I near my orgasm. My moans increase in volume and peak in a whine, my head rolls backwards as my vision blurs. My limbs tense as I ride out my high, moaning Peter’s name, my sex pulsing as I climax.

“Fuck, fuck, fuck, Y/N you’re so good baby,” Harshly digging his fingertips into my sides, Peter pushes his head onto my chest as he cums. His hips rut upward into me, his lips sucking on my chest in his pleasure; biting harshly at the exposed skin, his movement slows as he rests on my collarbones.

Our deep breaths mix as we come down from our high. My fingers move to his head, lacing my fingers in his soft brown curls, slightly wet from sweat. Using my chin, I lift his head, meeting large pupils and tinted cheeks. I kiss from his forehead to each side of his face, landing in a sweet kiss on his lips, licking at his bottom lip and chewing at the skin.

“Y/N,” His eyes fill with admiration as he licks the taste of my tongue off of his lips and gives a few kisses to my chest moving up to my jaw, 

“God, you’re so beautiful.” His thumbs trace circles into my waist as he looks up at me.

I push lightly against his chest, turning away from him,

“Wait, have we gotten to the part at the water park yet?” My attention diverting to the laptop screen, awaiting the appearance of Steve Buschemi.

[corishadowfang]

Ephemer Week Day 6

Prompt: Prophecy | Legacy | What do you think his future looks like?

...Uh. Technically this was supposed to be fluffy?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

            It was a “sad day.”

            That’s what Grandpa called it, anyways.  “It’s like—those days when you just don’t feel quite like yourself,” he’d said, with a small little smile and a crease to his eyes.

            Hikari didn’t know why it was a sad day—but she knew it came at the same time, every year.  Her mom didn’t think she knew, but she was smart, and she liked Grandpa.  Enough to pay attention, and to figure out that close to the start of the new year, Grandpa’s face would get all drawn and crinkly, and he wouldn’t talk to them as much for a while, and he’d spend a lot of time sitting on the fountain, staring at nothing.  Sometimes he’d get this really wistful sort of smile, and it always made Hikari wonder what he was thinking about.

            He was sitting there, now—hands resting in his lap, expression partly hidden by his scarf, pulled up higher than normal.  Hikari squinted at him from her hiding spot; he hadn’t moved in ages.  She didn’t know how he could stay here so long.

            She shifted—if only to make her legs hurt less—and over-balanced.  With a yelp, she toppled out from behind the bush, hands scraping against the street.

            That got Grandpa to move; he’d jumped up, nearly throwing himself into the fountain in the process, voice lifted in a shout: “Wha—Hikari?  Are you alright?”

            Her palms stung.  She sniffed a little, but it wasn’t too bad.  She guessed.  “I’m fine.”

            Grandpa was by her side quickly, anyways.  Her took her hands very gently in his; his palms glowed green, and after a moment, so did hers, the tiny cuts healing over.  “There—all fixed.”

            Hikari couldn’t help staring.  It was always so cool when he did magic; she wanted to learn, too, and be just like him, one day.

            “Does your mom know you’re here?”

            Grandpa’s question was gentle, but she still flinched, drawing her hands in a little.  “Um…yes?”

            He laughed, quiet.  “That sounds like you snuck out.”

            “No!  …Um.  Maybe.”

            Grandpa gave her a rueful smile, then opened his arms.  “Come on.  We’d better go back; she’s probably worried about you.”

            Hikari thought about ignoring him—but then, the whole point to sneaking out was to follow her grandpa, so she sighed and let him pick her up.  She could walk—she was nearly five, and a “big girl,” according to her mom—but she didn’t mind, if it made her grandpa feel better.

            “…Grandpa?”

            “Yeah?”

            “Why is today a ‘sad day’?”

            Grandpa’s face did that weird thing it did whenever she asked, and his laugh didn’t sound quite like it normally did.  “I guess I should’ve known you’d probably ask.”  He went quiet—and then, after a little bit, he answered, “It’s…a day when I lost some people very important to me.”

            “Did they move?”

            He laughed again, and this time it sounded a little more genuine.  “Not exactly.”  He paused, and that bittersweet look fell across his face again.  “It’s a little much for you, probably.”

            “Nu-uh!”  She squirmed in his arms, and Grandpa laughed again, protesting, “Easy, easy!” and trying to keep a grip on her.  “I’m big enough!  Mom said so!”

            “You don’t need to be in such a rush, you know.”  He tapped his forehead gently against hers.  “I’ll tell you about it one day.  Okay?”

            “Promise?”

            “Pinky promise.”  He lifted his pinky, and after a moment of thought Hikari hooked hers around his.

            But if she wasn’t going to find out more, then…  “Can you tell me a different story instead?”

            Maybe she couldn’t get all the answers that she was looking for, but at least her grandpa looked less sad when he said, “Sure.  What do you want to hear?”

            “Something fun!”

            “Hahaha, alright.  Hmm—did I ever tell you about the time my friend Skuld got stuck in a swamp?”

            “No!”

            Grandpa’s voice grew a bit more animated as he talked, and Hikari leaned her head against his shoulder, playing with his scarf.  She’d probably try and get more answers out of him later—sometimes she could do it, when he wasn’t paying attention—but for now, she was just happy to spend time with someone she loved.

[unreliablesnake]

Animals - bonus chapter

Summary: Soap wants answers, Ghost hallucinates in his cell.

Note: This is a short word vomit. / If you want to know when I post new stuff, follow @unreliablesnakefics and hit the get notifications button. I don't have a taglist.

Warnings: mentions of death and rape.

Soap was having a hard time accepting the truth, but things got painfully real when he was attending your modest funeral with Price and Gaz. After everything he had done to keep you safe, you got murdered when he wasn’t around. He should have asked Price to let him stay behind with you, he should have stood his ground and convinced his boss that this was for the best.

But it was easy to be smart in retrospect. Neither of them could have known how far Ghost was willing to go. No one expected him to end things like this. But he killed you, and now he was about to pay for his actions, hopefully spending the rest of his life in prison.

But this wasn't enough for Soap. He needed answers, he had to know why the lieutenant did what he did. What in the hell could make him hurt you this way, torturing you with months of stalking and harassment?

So he decided to give the man a visit in prison, hoping he would tell him the truth. A part of him was certain he would get nothing from him, but that was okay. It was still worth a try.

“To what do I owe the pleasure?” Ghost asked once he saw who the mysterious visitor was.

“I just want answers.”

“Take a number,” came the short response.

“Ghost, I’m serious,” Soap tried. “Why did you have to kill her?”

“She asked for help as if she was in trouble.”

“She was in trouble,” the sergeant pointed out.

“You have to know that I never wanted this to happen. I loved her, and she loved me.” Ghost added, surprising Soap.

He had a hard time believing the lieutenant was this delusional, that he truly believed it was true. “You fucker! She was terrified of you,” he said angrily, barely able to manage his anger.

Ghost thought about what he had just heard. “That doesn’t change how I feel. She was the best thing in my life.”

“So what? If you can't have her–”

“No, it's not like that,” he interrupted the younger man with a growl. “I just wanted her to stay with me. We were so good together.”

“Jesus, you're out of your fucking mind,” Soap said, unable to hold back a desperate laugh. This was insane, he was insane. How in the hell could that happen? How didn't they notice that he was so out of touch with reality?

Ghost leaned forward as he said his next words. “Why? Because I wanted to make her see that we belonged together? Because I wanted her to feel loved and satisfied? You should have seen the way she enjoyed the last time we were together.”

“When you tied her up, gagged her, then raped her? You sick son of a bitch. I'm sure she didn't enjoy that.”

“Her body surely did,” he said with a shrug.

“I hope you'll rot in hell, Ghost,” Soap told him before standing up and turning to leave.

“Already leaving?”

The sergeant looked back and leaned closer, almost bearing his teeth. “There's nothing left to talk about.”

The worst part is that Ghost genuinely didn't understand how they couldn't see his side of the events. He just wanted the best for you, showing you where you truly belonged. It's not his fault that you didn't want to accept the truth, that you should have been together.

Once he was taken back to his cell that he occupied alone, he laid down on the bed and looked at the ceiling. He wondered how long he would be locked up here, and if he even had a chance of being let go in the end.

“You didn't do anything wrong,” he heard your sweet voice suddenly.

When he turned his head, he saw you standing there with your back against the wall, arms folded over your chest. “I know, love, but they keep saying I did,” he said.

With a sigh, you walked over to him, sitting on the edge of the bed. “Look, they'll understand that you had no choice. I was stupid for not realizing you only wanted the best for me.”

“Don't blame yourself.” You flashed a smile at him at this. “I miss you so much,” he told you, raising his hand as if he was about to reach out and run his fingers down your cheek.

But it couldn't happen. He knew you were dead, he knew he was the one who killed you, but despite all of this you were still here with him, providing the support he needed so much now. If you were still alive and over what had happened between you, you would be just as kind, eventually realizing that he was right about the two of you.

“I’ll never leave you, Simon. I promise,” you added with a smile.

[theflagscene]

I love Phee’s dad trying his hardest to raise Phee right, something tells me he’s not going to approve of what is going on in the present with his son lol.

The inconsistency of the makeup department covering up Ta’s finger tattoo is so funny to me, because I genuinely don’t think the tattoo ties into the character at all, I think they were just trying to cover up Ta’s tattoo as he was playing a high schooler and then they stopped completely when he was supposed to be in university.

Oh so Non’s parents knew about Phee? Enough for Phee to call her mom and not auntie, so they knew they were dating or… what?

I fucking called it! First episode I said that Tan looked like he could be Non’s brother and it wasn’t even said that Non had a brother at that point lol, I just thought Mio and Barcode looked similar enough that they could play siblings.

I love that nearly 25 year old Ta (his birthday is soon 🥳) is having to call 19 year old Mio ‘Phi’ lol.

Did he really just ask his mother why she’s crying!? Come on Tan, you’re supposed to be the smart one in the family!

Okay so Tan isn’t an overprotective older bro, he feels guilty because he was just as absent in Non’s life as his parents were. Y’all suck!

Omg could you two look anymore sus!? Jesus. They’re just standing there and it’s like big ass red flags are already waving over their heads, also where did Tan stay while he was doing this act of subterfuge with Phee? Phee’s dad is a cop so I doubt he would just allow his son to move a random boy into their house, especially right after the crap with his missing ex-boyfriend. I don’t really expect Tan’s parents to notice he’s not back at university in England, they couldn’t find their own asses with both hands and a map. But Phee’s dad seems at least somewhat competent.

Put your shirts on boys, y’all look like rakes next to Ta lol.

Ohh, Jin’s got a crush, it’s lust at first sight. I mean, I get it, when I was in high school I would’ve probably had a crush on Phee as well.

Tan, you’re about as fucking subtle as a brick to the head. Which I know is exactly what you would like to be doing to them atm, but a little decorum my man.

Phee already is looking like the more sane out of the two, ngl.

Phee, Tan told you to become his best friend, not eventually fall in love with the dude.

And there’s the first time Jin dislocated his shoulder! Now the ‘again?’ comment by Phee when they fell out of the coffin makes sense, I was wondering about that tossed in line.

[nanomooselet]

Episode Four: Hungry!

Full disclosure, it took me a while to warm up to Wolfwood.

I hadn't read the manga or watched the older adaptation. Didn’t know anything about him except his ridiculous gun and that he was a priest (hence the ridiculous gun, because anime). I couldn't figure out why he was present in the narrative, except... because he was in the manga and older adaption. It seemed a little indulgent; I wanted more time with Meryl. He wasn’t even a priest. Obviously Nick has plenty of homoerotic tension with Vash, but all due respect and sympathy to Vash/Wolfwood shippers, m/m pairings have always left me cold (to be fair, pairings generally do that irrespective of gender. Desire unfulfilled is more my speed).

Sad to say that I still don't ship Vash/Wolfwood, but I did definitely come to understand why people do and why they like the guy. Though am I the only one baffled that Vash gets cast as the virginal princess so often? After this look?

Whew. No wonder Wolfwood looks like he got hit with a two-by-four. Ahem.

This is a very necessary episode that feels maybe too "necessary", like they realised they needed to introduce everything it introduces and didn't leave enough time to integrate it all naturally. It's too tight, and Stampede is already a show so tight it squeaks. Still, I think blowing Wolfwood's cover before the day was out was, if not the only right decision, not a wrong one. Almost immediately this guy comes across as sketchy, half from that he's barely trying to act like he's not (which absolutely sends me; he really hates his job) and half that he's just... an awkward dude, angry and obviously hurt in a way he won’t admit to. And while we know there's more to Vash than his façade, it's hard to tell just how smart he really is, how perceptive, because this is Vash. Meryl is the type to show off her knowledge, because she's young and eager to prove herself. Vash is a creature of endless masks and insurmountable walls. He refuses to, as he sees it, burden anyone else with his thoughts.

So we do exactly what Zazie does in this episode: show Vash something wounded and vulnerable because he'd tear off his own skin if it would make things easier for someone else. Except instead Wolfwood is the one who feels a little too exposed, of course. It's so funny to me how obviously he didn't expect this? And how frustrated when he realises he'll have to drag this self-sacrificial lunatic all the way to July alive without becoming attached. I honestly think he failed in that latter part before they even got shot out of the Worm. Vash is just so loving, and so loveable.

Also, the Worm guys (as I mentally call them) might be my favourite minor characters next to Rosa and her offsiders. They're a hilarious audience to the madness. I’m glad they got so many dinners in one go.

And Zazie - what a great character, one I genuinely think is an improvement over prior incarnations rather than just being different from them. Nail game on point, entirely free of fucks given, and a sterling addition to the cast. I'll talk more about our buggy friend later, and I have more to say about Wolfwood besides that hitting him with the trailer forced me to pause the video until I stopped cackling.

Finally, the closing scene chills me in hindsight for a number of reasons, but what gets me the most is that it's a bookend. At the episode's start, Vash refused to eat. Wolfwood had to convince him to. And it's not that he can't use his Gate, it's that he's decided to keep it closed, so something will have to make him decide to lay bare his power once more.

And somehow, I can't imagine Knives asking nicely.

[bigasswritingmagnet]

With My Own Hands (Ch 2/2)

Fandom: Girl Genius Pairing: Higgs/Zeetha Summary: Higgs meets a real tough lady with a very nice hat. By the time he finds out she's Zeetha Wulfenbach, it's too late.

Chapter One | AO3 Link

Higgs sipped his beer as all around him the evening fight raged. Sometimes he wished he was still the kind of Jӓger who enjoyed fighting for the sake of fighting. He liked a good tumble, now and again, but if there wasn’t a reason, a goal, something to be gained or lost or saved, it was hard to see the point. Hard to see the point of a lot of things, these days.

The thought made him frown. Gkika had given him the find an anchor lecture and it was infecting his thoughts. He wondered if the other generals drew straws once a decade to decide who was going to be the one to nag him. Last time it had been Zog, who at least merely said his piece and was done with it; Gkika argued.

It didn’t matter how many times he told them he already had one, they always said it wasn’t a proper anchor. Love for the Heterodynes made you a Jӓger, an anchor was supposed to keep you human. The town then, but apparently that didn’t count either, because he didn’t do anything to the town. It was just there, an idea, an ideal.

They were young. When they got to be six hundred and change, they’d understand. No, seven hundred. Eight? He’d have to find a history book and double check when the Jӓgerdraught was invented. One advantage of being among the very first—he could always keep track of the centuries, if not the decades. How old had he been when he drank it? Twenty? Twenty-five?

Someone banged into his table, causing his beer to slosh out of the mug. He looked up, startled, but instead of a Jӓger, he was looking up at a young woman. The green hair caught his eye first, it was hard to miss. The second thing was the look on her face when she looked back at him. There was a fierce determination there, the laser focus of a warrior in battle.

She shoved something into his hands.

“Hold that,” she said. With her now free hands, she picked up a chair and swung it, smashing into the Jӓger who had leapt towards her, sending him tumbling back into the fray.

“Careful,” he said. “You do that too many times, it’ll mean you’re part of the fight. And definitely don’t draw your sword.”

“Of course I won’t draw my sword,” she snapped. “This is a friendly brawl; I’m not going to stab someone. And I wouldn’t mind taking part, if I wasn’t in a hurry. It’d be easier if I didn’t have to carry that thing around, but if I put it on, I’ll definitely make myself a target, even if I don’t hit anyone.”

Higgs looked at the object in his hands, and realized it was a hat. An extremely elaborate, ostentatious hat, one that would indeed draw the envy of any Jӓger—even Higgs himself, who was abruptly filled with a sullen self-conciousness over his own unimpressive regulation headgear.

It looked a cross between a shako and a candelabra, the purple fabric caged by decorative brass arms that came together at the top in a single point. There was something written on the front, but before he could really read it, the woman snatched it out of his hands and a Jӓger came crashing down onto the table, sending Higgs’ beer flying.

He sighed.

“You need to get out of here?”

“And find my friends,” she confirmed.

“They smart guys?”

“Can be, why?”

“Then they’re probably the ones who aren’t sticking around for the fight,” he said, pointing at the group hightailing it towards the exit.

The woman’s head whipped around and she nailed him with a glare so ferocious, Higgs felt—for the first time in centuries—real, genuine fear for his safety. Higgs knew, logically, that he could take her, and easily. He could snap her neck in a second if he wanted.

But he felt that it was no solid guarantee he’d make it to her neck in one piece.

“…because they’re smart enough to know they can’t take on a room full of Jӓgers,” he hurriedly added.

To his surprise, the woman blushed. She ducked, caught a charging Jӓger in the chest with her shoulder, and tossed him backwards over her head.

“That’s sweet,” she said, as if nothing had happened. Then her eyes narrowed. “Hang on—”

“Let’s get you to your friends,” Higgs said, hurriedly.

They ducked and wove their way through the crowd. Most of the Jӓgers moved around them, knowing better than to try and take him on. His companion—the woman, he corrected himself, hurriedly—was not always so fortunate, but she had no trouble at all fending off any of the Jӓgers who came at her. In fact, he could tell she was holding back.

Higgs found himself wondering what she looked like when she put her all into a fight, how well she’d hold up if she actually did take part. She’d still be standing at the end, he was sure. Maybe he could find some way to see that—she didn’t seem Mechanicsburg born, but she certainly would fit right in. Maybe he could find a way to get her back down here on a day when she didn’t need to leave—

He ducked a chair and shook his head, wondering what in the flaming hells had gotten into him. Why couldn’t he keep his eyes on the fight and off of her? She was just so…bright. More real than the rest of the world around her, somehow.

Then they broke through the edge of the storm of Jӓgers and into the still safety of the passageway out, where the woman’s friends were waiting. He recognized some of them.

“There you are,” Vannamonde said.

“I got caught in the fight,” the woman said, defensively.

“You probably would have had an easier time if you got rid of that thing,” said a man who was, technically, not shirtless, although the leather straps covered about as much as the Jӓgerfrauliens’ outfits. 

The woman bristled and put the hat on her head.

“I earned this hat,” she said, and very pointedly turned a little handle at the top. At the point where the arms of the hat connected, a little flame burst into life. The extra light illuminated the words on the band at the front:

Zeetha Wulfenbach Clank Killer

Uh oh.

“That’s a joke, right?” Higgs asked, who had a sinking feeling he knew why he had suddenly started feeling the ground so solidly under his feet. “You’re sending me out for a crate of balloon juice.”

Zeetha Wulfenbach adjusted her hat.

“I took out two giant laser-canon crab clanks single handedly this morning,” she said, proudly, and his heart skipped a beat.

Uh oh.

He managed to salute. His only hope was that the dynamic of superior officer and soldier would force distance between the two of them, that she might be the kind of person who kept her subordinates at arm’s length.

“Airman First Class Axel Higgs of the SS Rozen Maiden, at your service, ma’am.”

She blinked.

“Oh! That’s...” She looked embarrassed. “At ease, I guess. Probably best you don’t salute or call me ma’am. I might be a little bit enemy of the state right now, what with the whole ‘actively working against my father to protect the Heterodyne from him until she can retake Mechanicsburg’, thing.”

A rope went taut and the drifting world of Axel Higgs shuddered to a halt, held firm by its shiny new anchor. 

God’s little fish in trousers, Higgs thought, I am never going to hear the end of this.

[lemoncrushh]

Wild Horses - Eleven

Summary: Amber Crosby didn’t end up with the life she’d expected, but that didn’t keep her from following her dream. A young, up and coming country recording artist, she and her band set out to do just that. Trying to leave her past behind, it wasn’t until meeting Harry Styles that she realized just how her life could take a turn and alter her future forever.

STORY PAGE

Chapter Eleven Word Count: 7k+

A/N: This chapter's a long one with no flashbacks. This was also the last one I had previously posted, so new chapters will hopefully be starting soon :).

“This kinda talk will lead us to somewhere; we’re getting way too close to going there…” - George Strait; We Really Shouldn’t Be Doing This

The car ride back to the hotel seemed a lot longer than the one that morning. Amber was so tired, she thought she could pass out, but she wasn’t about to fall asleep sitting next to Jeff.

“You did great,” he reassured her.

She had mixed feelings about the interview. She hadn’t been prepared for a lot of the questions that had been thrown at her, but at least the interviewer had been polite and somewhat interested in her music.

“Hmm,” she sounded, her head against the back of the seat. “I don’t know. I guess I wasn't ready for the personal questions.”

“You did exactly what you’re supposed to do. You were vague without seeming closed off. You gave them just enough. Remember, you don’t owe anyone anything more than what you’re willing to give.”

Amber sighed. “That’s what my mom says.”

“Smart lady,” remarked Jeffrey. “It’s what I remind Harry, too.”

“Yeah? I’ve heard he’s the king of avoiding questions.”

Jeff chuckled, “Well, he was in the biggest pop band in the world, you know. Those guys were media trained.”

“Yeah,” Amber mused. “I sometimes forget that. He seems so grounded and remains very genuine. He could have very easily turned into an asshole.”

Her manager was quiet for a moment before he said, “You like Harry a lot, don’t you?”

“Who doesn’t?” Amber turned her head and smiled. “You know, I don’t get on social media much, but Clare and I went to a bookstore the other day, and I saw five magazines with him on the cover. FIVE! He’s a huge deal.”

Jeff gave a small smirk. “That’s not what I mean.”

“What did you mean?”

“I see you two together a lot. Even during off time.”

“Well, yeah,” Amber confirmed. “We’ve become good friends.”

“Maybe something more?”

Twisting her hands in her lap, Amber felt her face get warm. “Are you wanting me to admit I have a crush on him?”

“Is that what it is?”

“Well…yeah. I guess.”

“Alright,” nodded Jeff as he sat back. He seemed to be content with her response, and Amber was happy to drop the subject.

The car pulled up in front of the hotel, and they walked together to the elevators. It stopped on the second floor, surprising them both when the doors opened to a sweaty Harry standing before them.

“Speak of the devil,” chuckled Jeffrey.

“You were talking about me?” he asked, stepping onto the lift and greeting Amber.

“Only in passing.”

“How was the interview?” asked Harry.

“Pretty good, I guess,” shrugged Amber. “How was the workout?”

“Wonderful.”

Amber didn’t miss the look on Jeff’s face as he was obviously reading the expressions and body language. Suddenly self-conscious, Amber took a step back from Harry.

“So how’s it feel to be back in Nashville?” he asked her. “Does it feel like forever ago that we met?”

Amber’s heart beat faster in her chest at the words “we met.” She hoped Jeff didn’t notice.

“Yeah, I love Nashville,” she said. “And the weather’s great today. But right now I’m too exhausted to enjoy it.”

The elevator stopped on her floor and Jeff held the door.

“Get some sleep, love,” said Harry. “Maybe we’ll have a late lunch.”

“Sounds great,” she gave a sleepy grin and a wave, catching the sweet look on Harry’s face and the disapproving one on Jeff’s before the doors shut.

“Hey, guys,” Amber smiled as she stepped out into the hallway, the door shutting behind her. She’d had the most incredible nap before waking to a cute text from Harry, inviting her to lunch. If she was being honest, it was a regular text, but somehow, she found it cute anyway.

“Hey Ambs,” greeted Johnny who stood next to the elevator with Brendan. “How’d that interview go this morning?”

“It was good. Kinda weird talking about myself.”

“What kinda stuff did they ask you?”

“A little about the band, the music. Then some personal questions.”

“Uh oh,” smirked Brendan. “Not too personal, I hope.”

“Did they say anything about…you know, Carter?” asked Johnny.

“Surprisingly, no. I was glad about that.”

Another door opened then, and out stepped Mally.

“Hey, what’s up?” he grinned. “You joining us for barbecue, Amber?”

“Actually, I was about to meet Harry for lunch. He told me it was my choice, and barbecue sounds amazing. You guys wanna join us? I’m sure he won’t mind.”

“Yeah, if you think it’s okay.”

“Let me text him,” said Amber, already typing on her phone.

“Do you think there’ll be a crowd if Harry comes?” Brendan asked hesitantly.

“Do you want there to be a crowd?” chuckled Mally.

Brendan shrugged, “Don’t really care, I guess.”

A wide grin spread across Amber’s face as she looked up from her phone. “He says he’ll be happy to have barbecue with the Amber Crosby band.”

“Alright then!” Mally clapped his hands together.

“He’s coming right down,” added Amber just as the elevator pinged and the doors opened, revealing a jovial Harry, his arms spread out.

“Hey, thanks for letting us join you, man,” said Johnny as he stepped into the elevator.

“What are you talking about? I’m joining you! So thanks for having me.” Harry patted Johnny on the back, earning a bright smile before addressing Amber. “We keep meeting on lifts today.”

Amber giggled. “This is only the second time.”

“Even so…Sleep well?”

“Very.”

When the elevator stopped in the lobby, Harry gestured for Amber to exit first.

“Which barbecue place are we going to?” she asked.

“We were thinking of the one down the street, across from the venue,” replied Mal. “Is that alright with you, Harry?”

“Lead the way,” he grinned.

The group strolled down the street, chatting with each other until Harry noticed Amber had fallen behind the pack, so he slowed for her to catch up.

“Sorry, I don’t have long legs,” she groaned.

“‘s alright. I wanted to ask you something anyway.”

“Oh? What?”

“Well, you mentioned us going to a country bar sometime…” he looked up, gesturing around them. “What better place than Nashville?”

“Oh, I meant in my neck of the woods,” explained Amber. “You know, where they have those seedy little bars that only serve beer and whiskey and you have to wear a collared shirt to get in.”

Harry pouted, his mouth turned down in a semicircle, his eyes wide like a wounded puppy. “So we’re not going to one here?”

Amber laughed out loud. “Don’t give me that look.”

“What look?” Harry batted his eyelashes, making Amber laugh harder.

“Stop! How can I say no to that face?”

Harry stood up straight, a satisfied grin on his lips. “So it’s a yes?”

“It was always yes, you silly goose,” Amber poked him in the side. “I was giving you a hard time.”

“Guys!” Harry shouted, making the other three turn around. “Amber just called me a silly goose! Am I a silly goose?”

Johnny and Brendan chuckled as Mally nodded. Throwing his arms up, Harry muttered, “Who knew?”

“So when did you want to go?” asked Amber as they crossed the street. “We’re here for three days.”

“How about tonight?”

“Tonight?”

“Sure, why not? Or did you have plans already?”

“Um…no,” Amber hesitated as they walked into the restaurant, following the other three. “You sure Jeff will be okay with it?”

Harry frowned, his brows knitting together. “Has he said something to you?”

“About what?”

“About…y- nevermind. Don’t worry about Jeffrey. He’s your manager, not your father.”

Taken aback, Amber gazed up at Harry as he perused the menu on the wall.

“You make it sound like we’re doing something naughty,” she whispered.

Nearly choking, Harry coughed a laugh.

“Sorry,” Amber shook her head, realizing what she’d said. “I didn’t mean it like that.”

“You’re the one who brought it up.”

“I just meant…oh forget what I meant, I don’t even know,” she laughed. “Let’s go out tonight.”

Harry looked down at her with an easy grin. “Sounds fun.”

The fivesome had been enjoying their meal for only a few minutes when Amber suddenly got the feeling she was being watched. She looked up from her barbecue sandwich and caught two sets of eyes glaring at their table. Before she could say anything, Brendan nudged her shoulder.

“I think those girls are staring over here,” he whispered.

“I know. Just ignore them. You know they’re just ogling at Harry.”

“Damn, I thought it was ‘cause of me,” joked Mally, making everyone snicker.

A waitress came by then to refill their teas and waters, momentarily cutting in front of the girls’ view. But as soon as she was gone, Amber noticed the phones in their hands.

“Oh come on!” she scoffed. “As if we don’t know what you’re doing.”

“Hey…” Harry nudged her other arm, shaking his head. “Just let them be.”

“But you know they’re gonna post those pics in less than thirty seconds.”

“Doesn’t matter. They’re not hurting anybody.”

“I guess not,” Amber muttered, taking a sip of her tea.

“I dunno how you do it, man,” remarked Brendan in a low tone. “You must feel like there’s cameras on you at all times.”

“I should hope not,” Harry joked. “I’d never sleep or shower again.”

“Aw, you know what I mean.”

“I’ve just gotten used to it, mate. And most people aren’t being rude about it. I mean, I have to live my life.”

“Yeah, dude, you gotta eat!” added Johnny.

“Exactly,” Harry chuckled.

Amber’s bandmates then started in on another conversation, but she wasn’t paying attention. Once again, she was in awe of Harry’s nonchalant attitude. She knew things had to get to him sometimes - nobody could be that easy-going.

“What?” she heard him say, and she suddenly blinked. Had she been staring?

“Huh? Oh, nothing,” she blushed, looking down at her plate, but not before catching the smirk on his face. The room suddenly felt warm, and she took another long swig from her iced tea.

If this kept up, Amber wasn’t sure she could survive a night out with him. In a bar? Sure, a country bar was her element. But with Harry Styles…well, she knew it was not going to be her average night out.

Especially if he kept looking at her like that.

Amber spent the rest of the afternoon in her room, watching a movie and then having a quick chat with Pauline. Before she knew it, it was time to meet Harry again. She had curled her hair, for reasons she still couldn’t justify, other than she wanted to look nice. She figured even if she wasn’t going out with Harry, and just to a country bar with anyone else, she’d have curled it anyway. She was just slipping on her boots when the knock sounded on the door.

“Be right there, H!” she called.

“Actually, it’s Sarah!” a different voice shouted from the other side.

“Oh!” Rising from the bed, Amber walked to the door and opened it to see Harry’s drummer. “Hey.”

“Hey,” Sarah echoed softly. “I’ve been sent to fetch you.”

“What for?”

Scanning both sides of the hallway, Sarah gestured toward Amber’s room. Stepping back, Amber let her in and shut the door.

“Harry said you two are headed out tonight?”

“Yeah. He wants me to show him how to two-step,” Amber giggled before widening her eyes when she noticed the get-up Sarah was wearing. “Did you wanna come too?”

Sarah smiled shyly, her hands on her hips. “Yes, but it’s by Harry’s request. Apparently, Jeff is worried about you guys going to a club together.”

“What?” Amber asked incredulously. “Why?”

“I guess he thinks you two are getting rather chummy and people will talk.”

“Hmm, I bet he does.”

“Somebody already posted a picture online from this afternoon. When you were having lunch. He’s worried if you go out alone with him tonight, more photos will show up and people will start assuming you’re…you know.”

“Jeff thinks that, or Harry?” 

“That’s what Harry told me, but I’m not sure whose idea it was,” Sarah chuckled. “Listen, it’s none of my business. But, I adore H. And he seems to like you a lot. He asked if I would go to the bar with you, and he and Mitch would arrive later.”

“Oh…well, that could be fun. That is, if you want to go.”

“Yes, don’t you see my outfit?” Sarah looked down at her western shirt and adorable denim skirt.

“You look so cute!”

“Not as cute as you, but I guess it’ll do. You ready?”

“Yeah!”

The duo headed out into the night. Amber realized this would be the first time she’d be going to a country bar since the summer. It would also be her first time to hang out with Sarah alone. She liked Harry’s drummer, but she and Mitch seemed to be attached at the hip, so it was odd to see either one of them without the other.

The dance hall that Amber had decided on (Harry insisted she choose) was a few blocks away, so Sarah suggested they take an Uber, especially since Harry and Mitch would most likely be taking the car service, and taking separate transportation would less likely raise questions for Jeff. Amber almost felt like a teenager again, sneaking out without “dad” knowing. Not that she did a lot of that as a teenager. And not that she felt like Jeff was being particularly parental. She understood his concerns…somewhat. What she didn’t understand was why he had a problem with her and Harry spending time together. What had Iris done that made him want to close Harry off from any potential danger a romantic relationship could ensue? Or did it have nothing to do with his ex-girlfriend at all? Was his concern only based on Amber specifically?

When the Uber driver pulled up in front of the flashing neon sign, Amber cackled.

“What’s so funny?” asked Sarah, sliding out of the car first.

“This place is literally called a honky tonk,” she pointed to the sign. “Harry’s gonna have a blast ribbing me about it all night.”

“Why’s that?”

“I told him they haven’t been called that since the seventies. If this place has a mechanical bull, I’m never gonna live it down.”

The bar was crowded, the music loud. Just how Amber liked it. As though her mothership was calling her home, she instantly felt her hips sway, her waist twist to the beat of the music. She stood near the entrance, watching the couples on the dance floor. She clapped when the song ended and a new one began. Fortunately, there was no mechanical bull in sight.

“This place is cool,” commented Sarah. “Wanna get a drink?”

“Oh, um. Maybe just water for now. I’ll wait til Harry gets here.”

Amber wasn’t sure how much Sarah knew about her drinking, and the entire Carter situation. It still felt like an open wound, and she didn’t feel like divulging too much information with a new friend, even if she was Harry’s friend and bandmate. Besides, she wasn’t sure if a couple drinks would really hurt, especially since she would be drinking for a good time, not to drown in her sorrows. But she also didn’t want Harry to judge her if he found her with a beer in her hand when he arrived.

So she decided to wait.

Sarah and Amber found a spot in the back corner, a small table with only a couple of stools, but because the bar was so crowded, it would have to do. Amber swung her legs underneath her as she sang along to the Alan Jackson song. Her phone suddenly lit up on the table, and she noticed a text from Harry.

Just leaving. Got diverted by Jeffrey. Be there soon.

Amber smiled, replying with the thumbs up emoji.

Sorry for the slight change of plans by the way. Hope Sarah is taking care of you.

LOL no worries, she typed back. We’re good.

Amber was about to tell Sarah the guys were on their way when she caught her looking at her phone as well. Mitch must have texted her.

“So when’s the last time you’ve been to a place like this?” Sarah inquired.

“I was just thinking about that actually. Last summer we played a few bars, but none that had a big dance floor like this. I think it’s been since…well, probably since I’ve been back home.”

She was about to say something else, but figured that would lead into a whole other explanation, so she skipped that part.

“Do you miss home?”

“The town? No. And definitely not the trailer. I only miss my family.”

“I’m sure they miss you, too,” smiled Sarah. “But they’re also very proud of you.”

“My mom is, for sure. She’s the reason I’m here, honestly. Well…and Harry. But she knows this is my dream and she encouraged me to follow it.”

“Great mom.”

“Yeah.”

Amber didn’t mean to get choked up all of a sudden, but her breath caught in her throat and she swallowed hard. Temporarily distracted by emotion, she almost missed the man who approached their table.

“Evenin’ ladies,” he greeted. He was a tall man in a western shirt, jeans and hat. Your typical cowboy. “Would one of you like to dance?”

Amber glanced over at Sarah who shrugged. “Go ahead, girl. It’s your night.”

Turning back to the cowboy, she smiled. “Sure.”

Stepping out onto the dance floor, Amber felt a sudden rush. Not exactly the adrenaline she’d experience being on stage, but similar. She hadn’t two-stepped in a while, but it was like riding a bike. The best part was that the guy led the way, and she was relieved to find quickly that he was good at it.

“What’s your name?” he asked, leaning into her so she could hear him over the music.

“Amber.”

“Hi, Amber, I’m Tony.”

Amber gave a gentle smile before Tony spun her around as they came to the edge of the dance floor, making their way to the other side.

“You’re a good dancer,” he said.

“Thanks, so are you.”

Amber hummed along to the song as Tony led her around the large oval once more. As the song came to an end, he spun her around again, to punctuate the end of the dance.

“Keep going?” Tony wiggled his brows in question as another uptempo song started, the DJ giving an announcement about shots and tipping your waitresses.

Looking over at Sarah, she saw she was still alone, sipping her cocktail. She eyed the entrance, but didn’t see Harry yet.

“Um…sure.”

As she held onto Tony, he led her around the dance floor again. At one point, she noticed a few sets of eyes were on them. She felt a little sense of pride knowing they were dancing well.

“You’re fun, Amber,” grinned Tony after he twirled her. “You from around here?”

“No,” she replied, catching her breath. “I’m…just passing through.”

“Oh, too bad.”

Amber felt his gaze on her, but she suddenly lifted her own toward the entrance where there seemed to be a crowd forming. She knew that had to be Harry. Unless another celebrity had just arrived, which was also possible, but not as likely. As she and Tony made their way to the other side, she kept sneaking glances until finally the crowd broke open and Mitch emerged, Harry right behind.

Still trying to follow Tony’s lead, Amber watched as they joined Sarah at the table where she quickly pointed to the dance floor. His head snapping up, Harry spotted Amber, a huge grin spreading across his face. Amber blushed as he pointed to her and mouthed “look at you!” She laughed, giving a quick wave and covering her face with her hand, hoping Tony didn’t notice.

The song ended a moment later, and a slow one started. Stepping back, Tony eyed Amber, silently asking for another dance.

“Sorry, I should go,” she said, gesturing behind him. “My friends are here.”

Tony turned around swiftly to see where Sarah was no longer sitting by herself. Amber noticed Tony’s shoulders fall, then he adjusted his hat.

“Oh.”

Not wanting him to walk away upset, Amber offered to dance with him again later.

“Sure, honey,” he replied, although he didn’t seem too pleased about it. “Have fun.”

As he walked off, Amber looked up at Harry who was still watching her. Somehow he and Mitch had gotten themselves stools as well.

“Hey,” she commented as she took the steps up. “Where’d you get the extra chairs?

“Waitress brought them.”

Amber placed her hands on her hips. “Of course she did.”

Harry laughed. “Are you having fun?”

“I was. But I think that dude got mad I was with y’all and not on a girls' night out.”

“Of course you are! Don’t let the two blokes sat here ruin it for you.”

“I don’t think that’s how it works, Harry,” Amber chuckled.

“Oh.”

The cheeky smirk on his face told Amber he knew exactly how it worked. Just then a waitress - probably the one who had brought the stools, Amber figured - came by and set several glasses on the table, including shots.

“What’s this?” Amber asked.

“I told Harry you were waiting for him to order drinks, so he got these while you were dancing,” explained Sarah.

“Oh! Okay…”

“Fuck!” Harry exclaimed, slapping his palm on his forehead. “Amber, love, I’m so sorry. I completely lost my head!”

“It’s okay.”

“No, it’s not. I’m so bloody stupid. I totally forgot-”

“Harry. It’s fine. Really.”

“You don’t have to dr-”

“I never really said I was quitting. I just…needed to lay off for a while. And I did. And we’re here to have fun. I don’t think a drink or two is gonna hurt.”

“You sure?”

Amber felt the hand on her wrist before she looked up into his sincere gaze. She gave him a slight nod and a soft smile.

“Alright. I’m leaving it up to you, love.”

“I think I’ll be fine. I wanna loosen up tonight, have fun. Just…let me know if you think I should stop, okay?”

Harry returned her smile as he ran his hand up her arm and patted her shoulder. “Deal.”

“So what are we doing first, shots?”

“Well, I got four…” Harry gestured.

Amber grinned, reaching for a glass. “Cheers!”

With slight hesitation, Harry lifted his own glass, and Sarah and Mitch joined in. The liquor went down smoothly, and Amber noticed it was sweet.

“You good?” Harry asked, wiggling his brows.

“You bet,” Amber beamed as she leaned towards him, placing her hand on his thigh. “Let’s have fun tonight.”

“Alright,” he agreed, giving a smile that made Amber weak in the knees. “When do we dance?”

“You ready now?”

“Whenever you are.”

“Let’s go,” Amber rose from her chair and held out her hand. Then she led Harry out onto the dance floor where a current popular country tune was playing. “So, you’ve never done this before?”

“I mean…kinda? But not really,” Harry chuckled.

Licking her lips, Amber lifted her free hand to his shoulder, and Harry instinctively placed his free hand at her waist.

“Okay, so I’m gonna step back with my right foot, you step forward with your left. It goes one-and-one-and-two. Then you repeat with your other foot.”

“Oookay,” nodded Harry.

As he began to move forward, Amber moved backwards. It didn’t take long before they were two-stepping. She wasn’t surprised though - he was a musician. Anyone who could keep time could do it.

“You got it,” she grinned, adding a bit more swivel to her hips.

“How do we do what you were doing before? When I got here.”

“What was that?”

“The spinning thing.”

Amber giggled. “That takes a little more practice.”

“Show me.”

While she wasn’t exactly sure how to teach him, she did her best to instruct him to rotate the two of them so they moved together in a circle. Once he seemed to have it, she told him to go faster. He slipped only once, bumping into her and a couple behind them, making her laugh. The song changed then to a slower tempo one, and she suggested they try again later.

“Where you going?” he asked when she turned for the steps.

“You…wanna keep dancing?”

Harry contorted his expression into a funny face, his arms out wide. Amber chuckled again, pointing to the table.

“Let me just get a drink of water.”

When she returned, Harry seemed eager to return his hands to the previous position. But Amber shook her head.

“This one’s a little different. Because it’s slow.”

“Oh,” he muttered.

“You can keep holding my hand here. But see all this space between us? That has to go.”

“Ohh.”

Snaking his arm around her waist, Harry pulled her close against him, their bellies touching. His hand ran up and down her back, and Amber wondered if that was intentional or just automatic.

“Like this?” Harry began to move forward to the rhythm of the song.

“Exactly like this.”

As they swayed to the music, Amber noticed Harry’s body moving more fluidly, as though it was natural. Her face close to his, she gazed up into his eyes, trying to read them.

“Were you pulling my leg?” she asked.

“When?���

“You’ve done this before.”

“I’ve slow danced before,” he replied. “Just not the two-step.”

“Well…” she cleared her throat. “You’re really good at it.”

Amber watched the dimples dip in his cheeks as he guided her along the dance floor. Trying to keep her mind off his angelic smile and the way his body felt against her, she began to mouth the words to the song - mindlessly because she surely had no idea what song it even was.

Dammit. What was happening?

She felt warm, and a little light headed. But there was no way in hell she would ever stop. She wanted this to continue, and she hoped to God it was a long song. Or at least that another slow one would play after it. The DJ betrayed her though, and a fast Luke Bryan song came on.

“Hmm, that was nice, Amber,” she heard Harry say.

Lifting her head, she saw him looking at her, his eyelids heavy although he’d only had the one shot.

“Yeah. Um…I could really use another drink,” she remarked.

Turning for the table, she didn’t miss the way Harry’s hand slipped down her back slowly, as though he hadn’t been ready to let go.

Back at the table, Sarah and Mitch were chatting until they looked up and grinned at Amber and Harry.

“You guys look great out there,” Sarah commented.

“It’s your turn now,” Harry pointed between them.

“Uh, I’ll pass,” she said while Mitch shook his head.

Laughing, Amber reached for the other drink that had been set in front of her. Taking a sip through the straw, she tasted the liquor, the warm sensation oozing down her throat and coating her veins.

“Wow, that’s good,” she mumbled to herself, nearly emptying the glass.

Soon enough, she joined the conversation the others had started, and the foursome had a good time chatting and laughing with each other. At one point she remembered a couple of girls coming up, asking Harry for selfies to which he obliged. And when he sat back down on his stool, she felt his hand suddenly graze her back.

“Just checking on you, love,” he leaned in to speak in her ear. “You doing okay?”

“I’m great,” she beamed, wiggling her hips to the music. “But I wanna dance.”

Rising from his chair again, Harry held out his hand. He danced another fast-tempo song with her, nearly getting a hang of the spinning - or at least a half spin. Amber giggled at his attempts. She couldn’t help it. He was so cute.

“So how did you learn to dance like this?” Harry asked. “You’re barely old enough to get in here.”

Amber blushed. “There’s an old dancehall back home. You only have to be twenty-one to get in on Saturday nights. Friday nights were teen nights until eleven. And during the week, anyone could get in. Some folks would bring their whole families.”

“How old were you when you started going?”

“Like…twelve? But only ‘cause my mom and aunt would hang out there. They would bring me and my cousin, Faith.”

 Amber almost didn’t notice the song had changed until Harry was already pulling her close. She seemed to meld into his arms effortlessly. As he swayed gently, she felt his fingers tickle the back of her hand. She looked up at him, his expression completely focused on her face.

“I like learning more about you, Amber,” he declared, lifting her hand to his lips where he kissed the back of it.

She nearly gasped at the sudden touch, unable to form any words but one. What was happening? Surely he was drunk.

“Yeah?”

“Mm,” he nodded. “I wanna know more.”

Amber chuckled nervously. “Careful what you wish for.”

“Why?”

“We all have skeletons, Harry. We already know both of us do. You said yourself you weren’t ready to dig yours up yet.”

“Hmm. I reckon I did. But I sure am dying to know you better.”

Amber watched Harry’s eyes study hers until she had to look away, glancing down at the cross that laid against his chest. She felt his hand slip from hers again before he used it to lift her chin.

“I haven’t told you how beautiful you look tonight.”

His other arm that was wound around her waist held her so tight, she could barely breathe. Or maybe it was the way he was looking at her, his emerald eyes dancing under the hot neon lights.

“Thanks,” she managed to say.

“Really like this dress,” he smirked as his free hand found its way around her back. “It’s very cute.”

Her heart pounding in her chest, Amber slid both of her hands up Harry’s shoulders. He seemed pleased with her choice, his grin widening as his own hands rested just at the smallest part of her back. Staring into his eyes, she wondered how long she could stay in his arms. She figured the answer would be…forever.

The DJ broke her reverie, reminding her she was on the dance floor amongst a crowd of people and not alone with Harry. He announced it was time for a line dance, and Amber groaned.

“What’s wrong?”

“Let’s sit this one out,” she requested.

“Nah, I wanna try it!”

“Ugh, Harry,” she protested, though she knew she would give in. It wasn’t that she particularly hated line dancing. It was just…

Turning around, Amber laughed when she noticed Harry was already starting to copy the people in front of him. Taking her place beside him, she did the same. Once again, it didn’t surprise her that Harry was a natural, picking up the choreography quickly. His long legs also made him look like a lanky cartoon character, which made her smile to herself, but she wasn’t about to tell him that.

The tune seamlessly switched to a hip-hop one in the same tempo, and the duo continued to dance with the rest of the group on the dance floor. Whenever it was time to turn and clap, Harry would add a “whoo” which was soon picked up by everyone else. Sneaking a quick glance over at Sarah and Mitch, Amber waved them over. At their protest, Harry gave them a shout, insisting they join them. Amber chuckled as they hesitantly made their way to them, keeping a distance behind the rest of the group. But just like Harry, they seemed to pick up on the moves quickly.

As the song ended and everyone cheered, Amber was prepared to leave the dancefloor for another drink. But her eyes about popped out of her head when she began to hear her own song.

“Oh my God!” she squealed, covering her face.

“Well, we have to dance to this one, baby!” exclaimed Harry, pulling her to him.

Glancing over at the DJ, she wondered if he’d recognized her or if it was just coincidence. When his eyes met hers, he gave her a wink and a thumbs up, and she smiled before Harry led her into the dance.

Wait, had he just called her baby?

Her mind in a haze, her emotions all over the place, Amber was on autopilot as she danced with Harry. When he spun her around successfully, he beamed at her, his smile radiating throughout the room.

“You did it!” she exclaimed.

“I did!”

Proud of himself, Harry led her through the rest of the dance, his eyes squinting as he chuckled. He sang along to the final chorus, spinning her one last time. And as the song and dance came to a close, the entire dance floor erupted in applause.

Amber felt her face turn beet red as Harry took her hand and bowed, encouraging her to do the same. Then he pulled her into a hug.

When they returned to their seats, and a few more fans came to congratulate them, taking more photos, Amber looked at Sarah as she bit the inside of her cheek.

“So much for keeping a low profile tonight, huh?”

“Don’t worry about it,” she said. “You guys were having fun. No harm in that.”

Amber shrugged. She only hoped Jeffrey would feel the same.

After the crowd had dispersed and Amber went to the restroom, Sarah and Mitch announced their departure.

“Thanks for coming with me,” said Amber, giving Sarah a hug.

“Don’t mention it. It was fun. And totally worth it.”

After the couple left, Amber continued to sip on her glass of water, deciding she’d had enough alcohol for the evening. She scanned the room, wondering if she’d catch a glimpse of Tony hanging around, but she couldn’t find him.

“Thank you, Amber,” she heard Harry say.

Turning to look at him, she noticed the glassy look in his eyes. He’d definitely had more to drink than she had, but it didn’t seem to affect him the same.

“What for?”

Scooting his stool closer to hers, he reached for her hand, rubbing the back of it with his thumb.

“For tonight. It’s definitely not my usual hangout spot…but I thoroughly enjoyed it.”

“I’m glad,” she smiled, resting her chin in her hand. When the sound of a steel guitar started, her ears perked up. “One last dance before we go?”

“Absolutely.”

Amber didn’t even bother to place her hand in his when they reached the dance floor. Instead, she wrapped her arms around his neck as he pulled her to him. His eyes seemed to dance in time with the music as he swayed with her, their bodies so close, there was no space between them. After the first chorus, she laid her head on his shoulder, inhaling his scent. He smelled so good, felt so good.

“I like this song,” she commented softly.

“Mm. I like you.”

Lifting her head, she melted from his gaze. She felt Harry brush her hair off her shoulder, his thumb grazing her bare arm as he let it fall, all the while, not tearing her eyes from his. As they continued to sway, barely even doing a two-step anymore, she somehow felt their bodies move even closer - so close that their faces almost touched. Amber could feel his breath on her skin as his nose brushed lightly against hers. She lifted her chin ever so slightly, willing him to kiss her. But she knew he wouldn’t. Not here. Not in public. Not in the middle of a crowded dance floor.

“Amber…” he murmured so softly that only she could hear.

Almost like a boom of a firecracker, the ballad ended and the DJ announced last call. Standing up straight and taking a step back, Amber rubbed her bare arms.

“Um…guess we should probably go. Before the rest of the bar leaves and it gets too crowded.”

“Yeah…yeah, good idea.”

Gathering her composure, Amber grabbed her phone from the table and took a few large gulps of water. Then she followed Harry out of the club, and into the cool night air where the car was already waiting for them. A couple more people who stood outside greeted him, and one even recognized her, saying they were excited for the concert. They thanked them before sliding into the back seat and headed for the hotel.

“How are you feeling, love?” Harry asked once they were on the road.

“Good,” she grinned, although her insides were a mess. “What about you?”

“I’m great,” he said, leaning his head back with a sigh. “That was the most fun.” Then he turned his head to look at her, reaching his hand out to graze her arm with his fingertip. “I really enjoy being with you.”

“Me too.”

The car arrived at the hotel in what felt like three seconds, and Harry helped her out. Relieved that the coast was clear - from Jeff or any other prying eyes - she followed Harry to the elevators where he pressed the button for her floor. While it wasn’t unusual, because he often walked her to her door, it somehow felt different this time. Butterflies danced in her tummy as they stepped off the lift and she pulled out her key.

“Amber…” she heard him say as she felt his hand on her back.

“Yes?”

She caught only a glimpse of his face as she turned around before he slipped his hands under her jaw and pulled her into a kiss. She barely had time to figure out what was happening as her breath hitched in her throat. His mouth captured her top lip as she wound her arms around his torso. She managed a sigh as he moved to her bottom lip, tasting her gently. His pillowy lips were so soft, as though his kiss asked a question rather than demanded. His body language, however, spoke differently as he pushed her against the door. When he slid his tongue across her lip, urging her to open for him, she tasted the alcohol, igniting her senses and fueling her desire.

“Oh…” she sounded when he separated the kiss suddenly.

His eyes echoed her thoughts as he stared at her, then down at the key in her hand. Turning swiftly, she fumbled with the key, unlocking the door and pushing it open. Harry had his hands on her, his mouth on hers again before they were halfway in. His kiss had become hungrier, his thirst apparent as his tongue wrestled with hers. Amber gasped when Harry released her lips only to travel his mouth down her jaw and neck.

Grasping at the back of her dress, he ran his hands down to her ass and lifted her up, her legs automatically wrapping around him. Her breaths heavy, Amber watched his face as he lowered her onto the bed. He hovered over her, his lips swollen from kisses. His eyes looked dark and greedy as he stared at her with a feral urge.

Harry kissed her again, his tongue dipping deep into her mouth, causing her to moan. Amber opened her legs, needing to feel him against her. When he moved his hips slightly, she could feel his erection, and she swore she was already soaked.

“Harry…” she whined when his mouth found her ear, his hand slipping down the top of her dress and cupping her breast. “Please.”

She heard him groan before he lifted his head to look at her. She tried to read his face, but all she could detect was uncertainty. Suddenly he shook his head.

“Shit. I’m sorry, Amber.”

“What? Why?”

“We shouldn’t be doing this.”

Amber blinked incredulously. “Are you kidding?”

“No. Mm, I’m sorry, baby.”

He rolled off of her and sat up, running his ringed fingers through his hair. Confused, Amber sat up too and glared at him.

“I don’t understand. What happened?”

“Nothing. I um…just don’t think we should do this right now.”

“I…” Amber’s eyes darted around the room. “I thought we were having a good time. You said you liked me.”

“I do.”

“Then why don’t you want to-”

“I do, baby,” he shook his head. “God, I want to so bad.”

“Then what’s stopping you?”

Amber watched his shoulders fall, his Adam’s apple bob in his throat.

“I had a lot to drink tonight,” he replied. “And I like and respect you too much to take advantage of you in this state.”

“But I didn’t drink that much,” she argued, crawling onto her knees. “Take advantage. I don’t mind.”

Harry’s low chuckle only fueled the fire, and Amber placed her hands on his shoulders, rubbing them gently before running her fingers down his arms. They were both silent for a few moments before Harry shifted on the bed and pulled her to him.

“I really do like you, Amber,” he declared, his fingers in her hair before he kissed her softly. “You’ve made me feel things I haven’t felt in a while. I just don’t think this is the right time for us to sleep together. Not yet.”

“Oh,” she mouthed, disappointed.

“It was stupid of me to make a move like that. I’ll understand if you’re upset.”

“I’m not upset. I was probably gonna make a move if you hadn’t.”

Harry smirked, pushing a strand of her hair behind her ear. “Baby…”

“Hmm,” she sighed. “You’re gonna drive me crazy if you keep calling me that.”

“Sorry. It just…felt right.”

“Yeah. A lot of this feels right, I’ve noticed.”

Breathing through his nose, Harry nodded, his eyelids heavy. Then he leaned forward and rested his forehead against hers.

“Believe me, I’ve thought a lot about this. That’s why I don’t wanna rush into it. I want it to be just right.”

Amber nodded. “Okay.”

Placing a soft kiss on her nose, Harry rose from the bed.

“Get a good night’s sleep, love. We’ll have breakfast, yeah?”

“‘kay.”

With a gentle smile, Harry headed for the door. Amber followed, holding it open for him.

“Goodnight, Harry,” she said.

“Goodnight, baby.”

Then with one last kiss, he was gone.

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[lizhly-writes]

AITA WIP Game

hellloo, @likegemstone! i realize it's been a while, but thank you for the tag! i got stuck in a loop 1) trying to figure out how to write an AITA post 2) trying to find an area where my protag would genuinely wonder if he was an asshole, but! here we are!

Rules: Introduce your WIP in the style of a r/AmItheAsshole inquiry.

tagging! @evanescentdawn @inkstaindusk @juruna-yudja @doksangs and uh, anyone else who wants to take this, i guess!

AITA for asking to open up my relationship?

Look.  I know this already sounds bad.  Let me explain.  

I (M24) have been engaged to my fiancée (F25) for years.  Our parents were friends, so they set this up when we were kids.  We pretty much grew up knowing we were going to get married, but I’d say overall, we get along well and I’m happy enough with it.

I don’t think my fiancée is happy enough with it.

Some more background: we have this former classmate (F24), who I’ll call “Mei” for now.  In university, she took up pretty much all of my fiancée’s attention.  There was a lot of drama involved.  Even when my fiancée was with me, she was always talking about Mei.  Not in a good way, necessarily, but I’ve known my fiancée pretty much my entire life.  She wouldn’t be so invested if she wasn’t at least a little interested. 

Anyway, things happened, we graduated, Mei dropped off the radar, my fiancée stopped obsessing, and I’m still making this post, because they ran into each other maybe six months ago and it’s like we never left university, except worse.  Mei’s always attracted drama, but it’s like her capacity for it has levelled up, and it almost always ends up dragging my fiancée in.   

We didn’t set a date, exactly, but we were going to sit down and start wedding planning this year.  It keeps getting pushed off -- she’s always busy, she’s always dealing with some emergency, half the time, those emergencies have to do with Mei -- and at this rate, I just don’t think it’s going to happen.  

I hear her talk about Mei, and it’s always how she’s annoying but she’s so talented and so smart and so pretty and has so much potential, it’s a waste that Mei doesn’t have any backing and it’s a shame to let someone like that rot, and I could go on, but you get the point, right?  

I want to end the engagement, but for certain reasons I don’t want to get into right now, I can’t do it myself.  My fiancée can, but she never would, she’s very filial to our parents, and also, both our families are invested in this for more than just emotional reasons.  But I feel like if I let things go along this way, it’s just going to be very messy.  She’ll end up discontent for no reason she can put her finger on, maybe resenting me as the drama piles up, and then maybe this situation will implode in our faces and the engagement will end anyway, and, I don’t know, I’ll end up in jail possibly.  

I figured I could stop at least some of this by opening up our relationship a little.  She gets the SO she actually wants, and I stop thinking she’s resenting me for being an obstacle in her whirlwind romance.  I don’t think this is the perfect solution -- I’m not even really sure it’s sustainable? -- but it should at least work better than what’s happening so far.      

I tried to bring this up with her last night, and she… took it more poorly than I thought she would.  She got angry and accused me of trying to get rid of her.  She started talking about my apparently low opinion of her sense of duty and honor, and how could I possibly think that of her and how could I possibly think that she’d cheat on me, what kind of person did I think she was, etc.  It was messy.  

I didn’t think I said anything wrong, but I’m not feeling great about it.  She’s never gotten this mad at me before.  I feel like I need to bring this up again and talk it out, but was I being the AH for bringing it up to begin with?

[lured-into-wonderland]

Continued from [x] with @distopea

Professor Queen was charming. His smile was charming and it put Nunnally into a light and cheerful mood despite her awkward apologies. Were they perceived awkward? Was she perceived awkward? She was aware that was often the case outside her social bubble. But she was not sure she could do anything about it without losing the demeanour that was so useful in the world, where she belonged (or had to belong). Nunnally was also aware of her not-so-good time management, but it was not something that would get used against her. At least most of the times. She was just about to proceed with her questions (and she hoped for the discussions following her questions) when Professor Queen started to talk (or perhaps she should call him Anthony?; she was more used to that).

His words – in her opinion – were in a clear contrast with the tone of his voice. With his demeanour. Was he scolding her for being late? Belittling her knowledge on the subject? Why? She didn't have much troubles to follow the lecture. She came prepared. She had read his essay before coming to the lecture as well as some of the other works he cited. So, why these words? Clearly suggesting (in her mind at least) that she had not read his work before coming here. But doing that would be a waste of her and his time, right? Was it again because of how she looked? Was it because others usually considered that if you're pretty you cannot be smart? That she could not be interested in (and knowledgeable about) science? That all her qualities were her looks and her fate was to simply become an arm candy of a rich and powerful man? Well, they were wrong, but it was neither the time nor the place (and perhaps also not the person) to prove the world wrong.

Nunnally was usually not the one to cause commotion in the public. So, she kept her polite (although now not so genuine smile) as Astra was continuing to talk. However, if he was a careful observer, he might have noticed that her eyes suddenly stopped sparkling and were almost lifeless, dull for a few moments.

“I understand. I understand that you are busy. Perhaps another time then.” – she said politely; her voice gentle, but distant – “…but I am afraid I will not find answers to my question in your essay…I have read it before coming here and I was triggered by some of your ideas that I wanted to discuss further…” – perhaps she should not mention that; perhaps just the first part of her reply should have been enough, but Nunnally couldn't resist the desire to hint him, to let him know she was not what (or who) he was thinking her to be – “I just thought you might have elaborated on some open questions that seemed to be there in your essay…”  

His next words were able to lighten her mood ever so slightly. She offered Astra a small smile when he – perhaps unintentionally – compared her with a star. Nunnally was used to getting compliments, but this one (if at all meant as a one) was a refreshing one; one she had never heard before.

“It’s so beautifully said, Professor Queen. You now made me wondering if you also write poetry…” – she had that unexpected thought that she would like to sketch him, but she was aware that asking him to become her model, especially now, when he implied he was busy would be awkward. Not to say simply rude. She wondered for a few moments if she truly wanted to give him her surname. Nunnally avoided that as much as she could as it immediately stripped her (in her own view) from being a person of "her own" and instantly making her “her father’s daughter”. Which she disliked, but accepted as the years passed. But she knew who he was, and it was also not a secret who she was (perhaps he might have known and it was just a way to verify, to confirm his assumptions). So, she simply decided to grant what he so nicely asked for: --

“It’s Nunnally. Nunnally Ambly des Ayvelles.” – it wasn’t technically a lie. In fact, it was what her birth certificate said, although her family, or more precisely her father, in his public and professional life used the second segment of their surname. So did she. To make it seem less aristocratic? Less high-class? Although Nunnally didn't expect him not figure out the connection, she still hoped that perhaps he’d not notice that. Or not care about it – “But now when you have all atoms and neutrons in front of you, would you mind simply signing it for Nunnally? I would appreciate it, if it would not make you uncomfortable, Professor Queen.”

Now when she was able to brush off her first disappointment, Nunnally made a gesture as if she wanted to take another paper out of her folder, but she changed her mind stopping her hands in the middle way. She smiled to Astra again: --

“Professor Queen…do you give interviews?” 

[agirlwithbigdreamsforher]

CHAPTER 7

THE NANNY: CHAPTER 7

Pairing: Andy Barber x Annie Johnson (OFC)

Summary: Working and single parenting is not easy. Andy needs to find a nanny for his son Jacob. Annie, an education degree student at Lasell University, comes to their lives just in time for the big changes in Andy’s life.

Warnings: none… ok sex hahaha.

A/N: I had a dream a little similar to this chapter.

Disclaimer: I do not give permission for any of my works to be copied, used, translated nor reposted anywhere else but here on this blog. Do not steal what you didn’t work for. Minors and ageless blank blogs don’t interact with me or my works. Reblogs and likes are always welcome. Thank you for reading this work of fiction.

Word count: 2093

GIF not mine, if it is your, please let me know so i can give you credit :)

                                    ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥

Another day at the Barber’s house. Andy was sitting in the living room with a cold beer in his hand, the summer breeze calming the heat on Andy’s forehead, the TV was on when the sound of footsteps made him turned around. Annie was walking towards him with a smile on her face, he loved when she smiled; he thought it was one of the most genuine smiles he had ever seen. She picked her jacket from the couch.

“Jake is sleeping” she put her jacket on, “Do you need anything else?”

“Stay” he thought, “No, I think I’m ok.”

He stood up and walked Annie to the door. They were in silence looking at each other and then to the closed door.

“Well, I should go” Annie stood on her tip toes and kissed him on the check. He could smell the fresh scent of her body spray, a scent he has grown to love.

“Stay” he said out loud this time and took her hand.

“I thought you’ll never ask”

Andy grabbed her by the waist and kissed her roughly, like if his life depended on it. He pinned her against the wall while his hands roamed all over her body.

“Wait,” Annie stopped him, “We have time, do it slowly.”

Andy took a breath and kissed her again, this time he did it slower, enjoying the feeling of her lips on his. They walked towards the couch and Andy lay on top of her. His kissed her neck and heard her moan his name, and that was enough to make him hard. Soon their clothes were scattered all over the floor. The tip of his cock was grazing on her entrance; Andy slid slowly into her, feeling the warm embrace of her walls around him, but when he slid out he came.

Andy opened his eyes abruptly, it was the third time this week he had this kind of dream. It all starter after he share a bit of his personal life with Annie, up to this day he didn’t know why he did it. She was an amazing girl, kind, smart, and she loved and care for Jake, it was not hard for Andy to start feeling more than just friendship for her, but she had a boyfriend, and he was her boss so it was not appropriate. After a couple of days, he thought his infatuation will banish, but one night he dreamt about her. His dreams were innocent at first, the two of them watching TV, she snuggled by his side; or having dinner, or the three were just running and playing around the backyard. Soon those dreams started to became more intense, first it was just kissing and now he dreamt he had sex with her in every room of the house, Jake’s room included, and he wasn’t proud of it.

Summer was coming, the nights were getting warmer; Andy had showered and slept naked the night before. He rubbed his eyes and when he sat, he saw the tent on his sheets and a small wet stain where the tip of his dick was, he kicked the sheet off and took his semi hard member on his hand and started to stroke it; he was focused on the dream he just had, it wasn’t long before he came all over his stomach. It’s been so long since the last time he slept with a woman, that he actually wondered if sex had changed in all the years he hasn’t had any.

Andy stood and took a cold shower before getting ready for work. His days were pretty much the same. He woke up at 6, some times, if he was in the mood, went for a run, other times he lifted weights on the guest room, took a shower, changed and then woke Jake up and got him ready for daycare. He arrived at the office at 8 every day, worked on his cases, sometimes he had meetings, some others he talked to his clients, and he picked Jake from daycare, had lunch with him, waited for Annie and then came back to the office.

Today it was a slow Thursday at the office it was 4 and he was doing nothing, he was sitting in his office listening to music from his laptop in a low volume. He closed his eyes, stayed like that for a moment and then opened one of the drawers in his desk. He took out the folder where he had the report he made about his now nanny, he opened it and there it was the picture he stole from her Facebook page, she was looking straight to the camera and fully smiling. He smiled at the picture when Anthony and Sebastian came in, and he closed the file.

“What are you doing?” Sebastian asked.

“Why don’t you ever knock?” Andy said a bit annoyed by his friends’ attitude.

“Cuz if we knock you won’t let us in.” Sebastian said proud of his answer and smiled, “so, I will ask again, what are you doing?”

“Ammm nothing… there’s nothing to do today.” Andy was trying to hide the folder under his laptop.

“What is that?” Anthony asked, pointing to his desk.

“What?” Anthony pointed to the folder, “oh! This is nothing… new case… I was reading it.”

“What is it about?” Sebastian said.

“It is about… ammm a woman… and his ex-husband,” Andy didn’t know what to say, even though he was a lawyer he was a terrible liar. “You know… a bad divorce; and he attacked the woman.” He finished.

“Can we look?” Sebastian kept talking, “We are very bored.”

“No, this is private.”

“Come on man!” Anthony said, “It’s not like we are going to be talking about this case outside this office, let us look.”

“No, why don’t you go to your department, I’m sure Pam will give you something to do.”

“Actually, she kicked us out because we were playing hockey” Sebastian commented.

“How were you doing that?” Andy raised his brow, crossed his arms and turned to see Anthony.

“We made a ball of paper and grabbed some brooms from the closet.  And I was winning! But mister sore loser here decided it was a good idea to throw the broom up in the air, and well we broke a computer.”

Andy was paying attention to Anthony’s story when Sebastian interrupt them.

“Your client looks so much to your nanny.”

Andy turned to see Sebastian reading the file he had on Annie.

“Gimme that!” Andy tried to take the file away from Seb but he was faster.

“So, since when you use your free time to dig into your nanny’s life?”

“I told you to gimme that!”

“No, I’m Reading it.” He sat on the couch across the room, “the nanny’s name is Annabelle Marie Johnson, how cute.” Seb smiled to Andy.

“Dude, did you really make a file on your nanny???” Anthony said, “That’s…”

“Creepy” Seb finished and showed the picture that a moment before he was looking at, “She is pretty, Andy.”

“I’m not creepy,” Anthony snorted at Andy’s statement, “I wanted to know if this girl was not a psycho and if I could trust Jake to her.”

“Sure, sure,” Sebastian said. “Boyfriend, Daniel Mathews; argh sounds like a douchebag name. Criminal Justice… Maybe is he who you should be digging Andy not your nanny.”

“I’m not going to do that.”

“We can do it!” Anthony said clapping his hands. “Let’s found out, who your competition is.”

“No! She is happy with this guy, so cut it out.”

“Where did you get this picture?” Seb asked Andy.

“Her Facebook.”

“And did you send her a friend request?”

“Of course not, I made this file before I hired her, that was months ago.”

“You should totally do it now dude.” Anthony said.

“I won’t. You know what, now I totally understand why Pam kicked you out of her department.”

Andy leaned on his desk and rubbed his temples. He felt embarrassed; he snapped back to reality when he heard the click of a camera going off.

“What are you doing?” Andy asked Sebastian.

“If you are not going to date her, maybe I will.”

“Don’t you dare!”

“Why not? Sebastian smirked, “gimme a good reason, why I shouldn’t call her and ask her out?”

“Because,” Andy head was going fast, but couldn’t think of a good excuse, “because, she has a boyfriend, and she loves him.”

“That never stop me before.” Seb stood and gave Andy the file back. “You know what I think?” Seb paused for a moment, “I think you like her.”

“Well, you are wrong,” Andy lied, “We are just friends.”

“Ok then so, since you two are just friends I could give her a call.”

“Who is just friends?” Pam came into the office.

“Andy and his nanny,” Anthony said, “did you know he made a research about her?”

“Did you really?” Pam asked Andy, “I told you she was a nice girl, and to be honest I thought you were joking when you said you’ll do it.”

“Why are you all here?” the four turned to see Lynn at the door, but she wasn’t alone, another woman was with her. “Shouldn’t you be working?”

“They broke a computer.” Pam told her.

“Traitor!” Seb said.

“Look,” Lynn said annoyed, “I still don’t know how you two,” she stared at Anthony and Sebastian, “Passed the exams to become detectives, cuz you act like children. And as for the computer, you’ll pay for it, both of you, understood?”

“Yes, ma’am!” Anthony and Sebastian answered at the same time.

Both left the office to go back to their department upstairs.

“Are you really going to call that girl?” Anthony asked Sebastian once they were out Andy’s office.

“Of course not, Andy likes her.”

“I don’t think he does.” Anthony replied

“Dude use your eyes! Didn’t you see Andy’s face when he saw her on poker night? His eyes lit when he saw her.” Sebastian told him,

“He was acting kind strange a while ago.”

“Exactly and I think he needs a little push.”

“Come on man, don’t do anything. It’s Andy’s life, if he is not ready to move on you can’t force him, no matter if he likes this girl or not, is his choice, not yours.”

“Fine! I won’t do anything.”

Lynn waited till the two detectives were out of sight and looked back to Pam and Andy.

“Well, now the reason why I’m here. As you know, Mrs. Stevenson retired so let me introduce you to my new secretary, this is Stacy, she just moved here, and I hope you all make her feel welcome.”

Stacy was skinny, had black long hair, pale skin and a pointy nose.

“This is Pam Duffy, chief detective, she works upstairs with the two men that just left.” Pam smiled and Stacy bowed her head. “And this is Andy Barber. He is the ADA.”

“How you doin’?” Andy extended his hand and a flirty smile spread across her face and answered his handshake.

“I’m well, thank you.”

“So,” Lynn continue, “since you have nothing better to do Andy, would you mind give Stacy a tour, when you’re done, you can go home.”

“I better go and check on those two before they break another computer.” Pam left and leave Andy alone with Stacy.

Andy half smiled at Stacy and started walking and showing her the building from the reception up to where Pam’s department and office was.

“What brings you to Newton?” Andy Asked.

“A new start I guess, I recently divorce.”

“Sorry to heard. Amicable I hope.”

“Not quite, but it was for the best. I really hope this place allow me to have a better life.”  She said without stop staring at Andy.

Andy was not sure what it was but he didn’t like the way Stacy looked at him, nor the way her voice sounded when she talked, but again he just met her, maybe she was like that on a daily basics.

“I’m sure you will be comfortable here, everyone in Newton is very welcoming.”

“I’m sure they are.”

After they finished their little tour, Andy said goodbye to Lynn and headed to the elevator. Meanwhile Stacy saw Andy up and down while he walked away and smiled to herself, she took her phone out of her purse and dial her client’s number.

“Just meet him, the new ADA. When I have more information I’ll call you back.”