#so does the mini taylor swift next to him

[winterrens]

looshien……………………….

[stevesgother]

Dress - S.H

Paring - Steve Harrington x Fem!Reader

WC - 1.5k

Summary - 2 times Steve Harrington has lost his mind seeing you in a dress that fits you like skin, and the one time he does something about it.

Contains - best friends to lovers, mutual pining, reader is pathetically in love, loosely based off of ‘Dress’ by Taylor Swift. Or maybe heavily based lol

Warnings - steve & reader ARE 18 in this, they just haven’t graduated yet, drinking, vomit. As always, let me know if I missed anything

AN - THIS IS PART 1 OF A WIP. second fic…ever! also my first mini series! i was gonna make it all one fic but i figured it would be easier to digest this way. enjoy :)

Senior Prom - May 1985

Michael Cooper. That’s who was waiting for you downstairs in your foyer, sweet talking your parents while he waited to escort you to your final high school dance. He wasn’t your first choice for your senior prom, hardly even your second; but he was respectable enough for you to be seen on his arm for one night.

Taking one last look at yourself in your vanity mirror, you smoothed your hands down the front of your dress. It was a beautiful baby pink ball gown with lace trim and puffy sleeves. Before you can think better of it, before you can feel guilty for it, you imagine Steve’s reaction when he sees you tonight.

Steve Harrington. Your best friend since diapers. Your mothers grew up together, so naturally when they found out they were pregnant at nearly the exact same time, it only made sense that they would orchestrate your friendship immediately.

As it turns out, not much orchestrating would be required. The second your little baby brains could comprehend what it meant to love another person, the rest was history. Wherever you went, Steve went too. You’re not sure when your feelings for him started to change. The usual calm that washed over you whenever you were in his presence one day seemed to transform into something different. You felt nervous, like someone had released a net of butterflies into your stomach.

You clear your head with a harsh shake and grab your clutch off the bed, making your way downstairs. Michael is waiting for you with a green corsage in a shiny translucent box. ‘That's Sweet,’ you think, “if only it matched my dress.’ 

–

Upon arriving at the gym, the first thing you do, consciously or not, is scan the room for your best friend. You spot him quickly, his perfectly manicured hair and well-pressed suit making him hard to miss. Even harder to miss is the gorgeous, curly haired brunette resting her head on his shoulder.

Nancy Wheeler.

They’ve been together for over a year at this point, even joining your close knit circle of friends. Despite this, you can’t help the nagging sense of jealousy stabbing at your chest, making your face heat up. You tell yourself it’s the humidity inside the gymnasium, and not the fact that you’d give anything to be in her position. You quickly abandon your date and try not to feel guilty for it, making your way over to the happy couple.

“Steve!” You call as you come further into their line of sight.

“Hey you!” Steve stands and gives you a tight hug. “Hey!’ you greet, returning the embrace. He can’t help the way his eyes quickly travel down the expanse of you, noticing the shape this dress gives your body. He prays to any listening God that his girlfriend didn’t notice, that you didn’t notice. “Hey Nance.” You address her with a polite smile. She gives you a hug without warning. Another thing that irks you about Nancy Wheeler: that girl is impossible to hate. You have every reason to despise her, and yet you can’t. She’s kind, funny, strong-willed and beautiful. She’s so ‘girl next door’, she’s so…not you. Occasionally you’ve wondered if it’s a front, that she can’t possibly be that perfect.

“Where’s Michael?” She asks inquisitively; like she genuinely cares where your douchebag date has run off to. A quick scan of the room reveals he’s already talking up another girl by the photobooth. There’s not one part of you that gives a shit. “We were just thinking about grabbing some food, wanna come with?” Steve nods his head toward the various appetizers they have set up on tables decorated with gaudy tinsel and tablecloths. “Yeah, why not?”, you smile and it doesn’t reach your eyes.

–

An hour and 2 cups of spiked punch later, ‘Heaven’ by Bryan Adams starts to play and you feel like you might hurl. Nancy’s face quickly lights up and she gives her date a knowing look, “Steve! Let's dance! Please??”. She’s immediately pulling him away from the table where you’ve been watching them flirt all night. Her delicate hand resting on his bicep, his large one finding a home on her thigh. He sends you a sympathetic look as he rises; sorry that he has to leave you there, sorry that you won’t be slow dancing with anyone tonight. He has no idea.

Your date is long gone. The two of you going together was a ticket inside and nothing more.

The air in the gym is suffocating and frankly smells of sweaty basketball shorts, so you decide to make your way outside for some fresh air. The romantic serenade of Bryan Adams’ voice is nothing more than a quiet lullaby as you lean against the brick wall of your high school.

You hear him before you see him. “Hey stranger,” the open door momentarily lets the humidity escape and you feel it wash over your skin. “you alright?” he asks with a half smile.

“Yeah just,” you say looking around, “getting some air is all,” returning the expression. He imitates you and decides to lean on the wall, a little too close for comfort. You’re all but slapped across the face with his scent. Cinnamon, a no doubt expensive musky cologne, and sweat. You can feel him looking at you, so you decide to meet his gaze; praying that he can’t see the crimson shade of red creeping up your neck and cheeks simply from standing next to him. You feel so pathetic at times like these. 

“Nance found a couple of her girlfriends, figured it’d be a good time for a smoke.” He pulls a cigarette out of his suit jacket pocket, and lights it. His hand cupped to cover the breeze.

“Those’ll kill ya, you know?” you smirk, knowing. You’ve always teased him for his bad habits, especially this one. “Yeah well,” he says in an inhale, “now’s as good a’ time as any, right?”

He grins at you, smug. It sends you reeling and you hope your thundering heartbeat doesn’t give you away. Maybe it’s just the alcohol.

After a few minutes of silence, he stomps his cigarette out on the pavement and turns to fully face you. 

“You’re beautiful, you know that?”

His words steal the breath from your lungs and your breath hitches in your throat.  Steve’s complimented you before, thousands of times. So why does this feel like you’ve just been slammed into a wall of concrete?

“Steve…”

You feel like he’s getting closer. You’ve definitely had too much to drink.

Before you can stop yourself or even comprehend what’s happening, you vomit all the contents of your stomach directly onto Steve’s perfectly polished loafers. He yelps, most in surprise, slightly in horror. Despite that undeniable foulness of the situation, his hands immediately move to hold your hair back, just in case you aren’t, well, finished. 

You don’t realize it, but you’ve started crying. “Hey, hey, it’s alright. You’re okay,” he soothes, rubbing a hand up and down your back. “Let’s get you home, yeah?” He starts to lead you to his car in the parking lot, leaving you here alone not an option for him. “What about Nancy?” you sob, “I’ll come back and get her, honey. Don’t worry.” Honey. You almost puke again.

Once he settles you into the passenger seat of his pristine BMW, you watch as he toes off his shoes and throws them in the garbage. When he slides into the driver's seat and turns on the ignition, he turns and brings a palm up to cradle your jaw. “Guess I’m gonna have to keep an eye on ya next time,” he chuckles, “can’t handle your mildly spiked punch.” You groan, but give a breathy chuckle of your own, “Just drive, Harrington.”

When you arrive home, you breathe a sigh of relief at the lack of your family car in the driveway. Your mother would certainly pitch a fit if she saw you like this - mascara streaked down your face, an obnoxious yellow stain down the front of your once flawless dress. Steve leads you upstairs with a hand on the small of your back, and a palm cradling your elbow. You know you’re not drunk, and you’re almost positive that wasn’t the reason you spilled your guts. But the alternative to just letting Steve take care of you would be admitting that you love him, that you’re in love with him.

You don’t bother taking your makeup off, Steve just helps you change into an old t-shirt and a pair of sleep shorts. “Lights on or off?” He asks as he pulls the covers up and over you, “Off, please.” he gives you a little two-finger salute, “you got it.” Just as he’s reaching underneath your lamp shade you whisper, “Steve?” he looks, “yeah trouble?” “I’m sorry for ruining your night…and throwing up on your shoes.” you give a sheepish look. Even though he would have every right to be, you know he’s not mad at you.

“You didn’t ruin anything,” he leans down and presses a kiss to the crown of your head,”the shoes we can discuss at a later date,” he shoots you a wink, making sure you know he’s only teasing.

“Thank you, Steve.”

“Goodnight, sweetheart.”

Without another word he closes the bedroom door, bathing you in darkness. Just before you succumb to sleep, you’re filled with dread at the thought that you’re gonna remember this in the morning.

Cheers to senior year.

[ferrstappen]

maxplaining 2.0 l Max Verstappen blurb

note: hello! i was working on another piece and a TikTok popped up of mini Max and mini Charles, and it was so cute watching mini Max maxplaining already, and I just had this idea, hope you like it! Also, this is taken from the two previous dad!Max I've posted, so we're back with the twins!

Remember to please show it some love, feedback and reblog are always very very appreciated, and tomorrow I'll be working on some requests and the Taylor Swift collection <3

pairing: dad!Max Verstappen x female reader

warnings: none

summary: Luca Verstappen's first press conference during his karting career. turns out, he even speaks like his dad.

It was a small press conference, really.

Still, local reporters were covering and asking questions, also interested on the fact that Max Verstappen's son was following the very big footsteps of his father.

Mila was constantly asking why she was forced to come to her twin's press conference, she has to listen to him at home and school, wasn't that enough? A lot of personality for a ten year old girl, but was easily convinced by a pair Gucci ballet flats, ignoring the questioning glare from his wife, who reminded him that she has to learn that not everything comes with a recompense, and a ten year old does not need that many pairs of designer shoes.

He didn't care, though. Whatever Mila wanted, whatever she got. What was the reason of having all that money if he couldn't spoil his loved ones?

People sometimes forgot about the karting race in front of them, instead watching as Max's deep blue eyes studied every move made by Luca on the track. At the same time, he managed to squeeze your hand and waist whenever you gasp at the speed or turns, not being a fan of your son following the motorsport path.

Of course Luca won, he was every bit as talented as his father. Max smiled and hugged his son with pride, giving him his best smile, highlighting every good thing he did, lovingly asking him if he was okay and trying to reassure him.

That's what he would've wanted to hear from his dad, or at least that's what you thought before kneeling in front of Luca and giving him a short congratulatory hug, knowing he was at the age where every bit of affection ended with Luca muttering "Mum", trying to hide his embarrassment.

The three of you stood on the back, not wanting to get in the way of Luca's moment after winning. She'd deny it, but Mila gave her twin a thumbs up while making eye contact with him.

Of course the first question was for Luca, asking him about his race overall.

The young Verstappen boy took a deep breath before he started talking. And then he couldn't stop...

"This is my first win, we were very fast and my opponent made a mistake so I could pass him first and then stay in the first position so I could win. We still have more races but we are happy with the results and hope we can keep winning, but we have too keep working hard, I know I will work and try to better myself so that I can give my best..."

"Mama, he's talking too much. It's embarrassing," Mila whispered on your ear, earning a glare from you.

When he finished answering the question, he instantly started talking to the boy next to him, explaining something about the track and brakes, even gesticulating to make his point.

Of course, Max was oblivious to the fact that Luca was almost the same person as him, never really being aware of his own tendencies to explain things on his own words.

Back home, after putting Mila and Luca to sleep and heading to the bedroom where Max was already waiting for you, carefully hitting your side of the bed, signaling that it was time to go to bed.

So needy.

As soon as your body touched the mattress, Max rolled over and draped his arm over your waist, nuzzling his face on the crook of your neck. Meanwhile, you opened TikTok to slow down before going to sleep.

The first video was one of today, Luca animatedly talking and moving his hands. Then, it cut to one of a flushed Max doing the exact same thing.

"What are you laughing about?" Max lifted his head to check whatever was on your phone.

Lucaexplaining? Maxplaining 2.0? Versplaining? What's the best name?

"What are they talking about?" Max frowned while reading some comments.

Laughing at his cluelessness, you kissed the top of his head and put your phone down, noticing Max's breaths slowed down as you ran your hands through his hair.

You'd choose your talkative boys any day.

[theetherealbloom]

BUT DADDY I LOVE HIM - CH.3

Chapter 3: ​​Dutiful Daughter, All My Plans Were Laid

Summary: After harboring a crush on your dad's charming best friend, Joel Miller, you graduate college only to be confused by something he supposedly said to you, but then he and his daughter Sarah, reluctantly move away due to his work. Six months later, Joel returns to town, and you're desperate to confirm if his words were real. Both you and your dad eagerly await his arrival but for entirely different reasons. As feelings intensify, you realize that falling for him might not be temporary after all.

Paring: Dbf!Joel Miller x Fem!Reader

Warnings: Angst, AGE-GAP Romance, Reader is Early twenties and Joel is in his late 30s to early 40s, Secret Romance, Sneaking Around, FLUFF, LOTS OF SMUT, SMUT, SMUT, Heavy Make Out Session, Oral Fem Receiving, Kissing, Barely any plot, NOT A SLOW BURN AT ALL, Relationship, Swearing, Depression, Anxiety, Crying, Suggestive content, Flirting, Flattery, Awkward, Virgin reader, inexperienced reader, slightly Self Deprecating, Suggestive Content, Size Kink, Reader is “smaller” than Joel but no further descriptions, Breeding Kink, PWP (wrap it up), Body worship, declaring their love for each other, 

Word Count: 10k

A/N: THERE ARE SO MANY OF YOU… UHM, HI! We’re nearing the end of the mini-series. I believe I have one or two more chapters to write and then we’ll have the epilogue. Thank you for all the comments, reblogs and likes! I look forward to reading all the feedback from ya’ll, it really does give me the motivation to write. Thank you all again!!! 🤍☺️

Side note: I’m dyslexic and English isn’t my first language! So I apologize in advance for the spelling and/or grammatical errors. As always, reblogs, comments, and likes are always appreciated. Thank you and happy reading!

Song: But Daddy I Love Him by Taylor Swift

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As you lay there, wrapped in Joel's arms, you can't help but steal a glance at the small alarm clock on the nightstand. The glowing numbers tell you that it's nearly 3am, and as much as you don't want to leave the warmth of his bed and his embrace, you know that you can't stay forever.

Your dad is expecting you for breakfast in just a few hours, and the thought of him having a heart attack if you don't show up is enough to make you sit up and take notice.

"I don't wanna leave," you murmur, your voice barely above a whisper as you snuggle closer to Joel, inhaling the intoxicating scent of his skin.

"I don't wanna let you go," Joel replies, his accent thick and heavy as he tightens his arms around you, pulling you closer still.

You can feel the heat of his body, the strength of his muscles, and the warmth of his embrace, and you know that you could stay there forever, wrapped up in him.

But reality calls, and you know that you can't ignore it forever.

"I wish we could stay like this forever," you say, your voice filled with longing and sadness.

"Me too, darlin'," Joel replies, his voice filled with emotion. "But we both know that we can't."

You nod, your heart heavy with the weight of the decision you both know you have to make.

"I guess I should get going," you say, your voice barely above a whisper.

"I guess you should," Joel replies, his voice filled with regret.

As you reluctantly pull away from Joel, he surprises you by gently tugging you back into his embrace, his lips seeking yours in a kiss that is both passionate and intense. The taste of him lingers on your lips, a bittersweet reminder of the connection you share.

With a soft sigh, you finally gather the strength to untangle yourself from his arms, a pang of longing tugging at your heart as you begin to get dressed. Joel watches you, his gaze filled with a mix of desire and tenderness, his southern drawl adding a soothing cadence to his words.

"Let me help you, darlin'," Joel offers, his voice warm and comforting as he assists you with your clothes, his touch gentle yet possessive. The intimacy of the moment lingers in the air, a silent acknowledgment of the bond you share.

Once you're dressed, Joel's arms wrap around you, holding you close as if reluctant to let you go. His embrace is both clingy and sweet, a silent plea for you to stay a little longer, to prolong the inevitable parting.

"I wish you didn't have to go," Joel murmurs, his voice filled with longing. "I could hold you like this forever."

You lean into his embrace, savoring the warmth and security he provides. "I wish I could stay too, Joel," you whisper, your voice filled with emotion. "But I have to go."

As you prepare to leave, Joel's gaze lingers on you, his eyes filled with a mixture of love and regret. He presses a soft kiss to your forehead, a silent promise of his affection and devotion.

"I'll be counting the minutes until I can see you again," Joel says, his voice filled with sincerity. "You mean everything to me, darlin'."

As you step out onto Joel's front porch, the cool night air brushes against your skin, a stark contrast to the warmth of his embrace. You take a deep breath, savoring the scent of the night, your heart heavy with the weight of your decision to leave.

You make your way quietly and quickly to the back of your house, tiptoeing through the darkness, your mind filled with thoughts of Joel and the intense connection you share. As you slip back into your bedroom, you can't help but feel a sense of bliss and excitement, knowing that you'll see Joel again in just a few short hours.

The anticipation builds within you, a simmering heat that courses through your veins, fueled by the memories of your time together. You can't wait to feel his touch again, to lose yourself in the passion and intensity of your connection.

As you lay in bed, your mind drifts to thoughts of Joel, his drawl echoing in your mind, his words of love and devotion filling your heart with warmth and joy. You know that what you have together is special, a bond that goes beyond mere physical attraction.

You close your eyes, drifting off to sleep with a smile on your face, your dreams filled with the promise of a future filled with passion and love.

As the morning sunlight streams through your window, you wake up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, the memories of the previous night still fresh in your mind. You can't wait to see Joel again, to feel his arms around you, to lose yourself in the intensity of your connection.

With a sense of excitement and anticipation, you get ready for the day, your heart filled with hope and joy, knowing that you have found something truly special in Joel.

You make your way downstairs to find your dad had gotten up extra early today. He glances at you and asks, "Well, someone's happy this morning. Did you sleep well honey?"

"Huh, what? Oh... yeah, I was pretty tired from yesterday so I just kinda passed out," you say, trying to be nonchalant. But you can see your dad give you a suspicious look before taking a long sip of his coffee.

"So... you and Joel..." Your dad begins, and you feel blood rushing into your ears, making you feel dizzy.

You raise your eyebrows at your dad, waiting for him to continue.

He clears his throat and says, "You gonna go with him to pick up Sarah later?"

You nod and smile at the mention of Sarah, "Mhm! I'll text you when we're leaving."

"Alright then, just..." Before your dad could finish that sentence, the doorbell rings, and you watch as your dad moves to the front door. When he opens it, Joel is standing there in a grey tee and those tight jeans with his hands in his pockets.

Your heart skips a beat as you take in the sight of him. "Fuck. He looks so good," you think to yourself, your body responding to his presence in a way that you can't control.

"Hey there, darlin'," Joel says, his deep Southern accent sending shivers down your spine.

"Hey," you reply, your voice barely above a whisper as you take in the sight of him standing on your doorstep.

Your dad has his eyes narrowed between the two of you, before saying, "Be sure to tell Sarah hi for me, I'll be going now."

You and Joel say goodbye, and watch as your dad hops into his car and drives off to work, leaving you alone with Joel.

"I missed you," Joel says, pulling you into a tight embrace.

You melt into his arms, feeling the warmth and strength of his body against yours.

"I missed you too," you reply, your voice filled with longing.

As you pull away, Joel's gaze lingers on you, his eyes filled with desire and affection.

"Let's go pick up Sarah," he says, his voice filled with excitement.

You nod, your heart racing with anticipation as you make your way to the car. The feeling of gratitude for the connection you share with Joel washes over you, knowing that it's something truly special and rare.

As you approach the car, Joel grabs the keys from your hand and gives your ass a playful smack, causing you to jolt in surprise.

"Hey!" you exclaim, looking at him with mock indignation.

Joel's smoldering gaze meets yours, filled with a mischievous glint that makes your heart race.

"Darlin', you just sit back and relax," he drawls in that deliciously Southern accent of his, sending a shiver down your spine. "I'm in charge of the driving, and you're in charge of lookin' like a damn goddess."

You can't help but smile at his playful banter, feeling your heart flutter with excitement as you slide into the passenger seat. Joel's eyes follow your every move, and you can't help but feel a little self-conscious under his intense gaze.

As he starts the car, you can't help but feel a sense of contentment and happiness wash over you. The connection you share with him is electric, a magnetic pull that draws you in and makes you feel alive.

With one hand on the steering wheel, Joel reaches out to place his other hand on your thigh, giving it a gentle squeeze. You let out a soft moan, biting your lip as you feel a spark of desire ignite within you.

"You like that, don't you?" Joel murmurs, his voice low and husky. "You like when I touch you like this."

You nod, unable to find the words to respond. Joel's touch is intoxicating, making you feel dizzy with desire.

"Good," he says, his voice dripping with satisfaction. "Because I love touching you, feeling your body respond to my touch. You're mine, and I'm never letting you go."

You lean back in your seat, feeling a sense of contentment and happiness wash over you as Joel's words of love and affection fill your ears.

"So... darlin'... how'd you feel about tellin' Sarah about us?" Joel asks, his Southern accent sending shivers down your spine as he rubs his thumb gently on your thigh.

You play the thought through your mind, considering the implications of sharing your relationship with Sarah.

"You want her to know?" you ask, looking at him with a mixture of curiosity and apprehension.

Joel nods, his eyes filled with warmth and affection. "Of course, darlin'. Do you?"

You take a deep breath, thinking it over. "Will she be okay with it?"

Joel smiles, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "With you and I? Yeah. To be honest... I talk about you to her... a lot."

Your heart skips a beat at the thought of Joel sharing his feelings for you with Sarah. "Really?"

Joel nods, his thumb still tracing lazy circles on your thigh. "Yeah, darlin'. I can't help it. I'm crazy about you."

You can't help but smile at his words, feeling a sense of belonging and love that you've never experienced before.

"Okay," you say, your voice barely above a whisper. "Let's tell her."

Joel's face lights up, his eyes shining with happiness. "Really?"

You nod, feeling a sense of excitement and anticipation wash over you. "Yeah. I want to share this with her. I want her to know how much you mean to me."

Joel leans in, pressing a gentle kiss to your hand. "Thank you, darlin'. I promise you won't regret it."

As you and Joel make your way to the parking lot of the airport, the anticipation of reuniting with Sarah and Tommy fills the air with excitement. The energy between you and Joel crackles with anticipation as you head towards the arrivals area, scanning the crowd for their familiar faces.

And then, there they are. Sarah and Tommy, standing out in the crowd like beacons of joy. You can't contain your excitement and start waving your arms wildly, practically bouncing up and down with anticipation.

Sarah's eyes light up as she spots you, and she breaks into a wide grin, her steps quickening as she rushes towards you and Joel. Tommy follows closely behind, a smile playing on his lips as he takes in the scene before him.

"Hey, you guys!" Sarah exclaims, throwing her arms around you in a tight hug, her excitement contagious.

Sarah then turns to Joel, her eyes sparkling with joy as she throws her arms around his neck, embracing him with her whole body.

"Hi dad," she says, her voice filled with warmth and affection.

Joel's face lights up at the sight of his daughter, and he wraps his arms around her, pulling her in for a tight hug.

"I missed you too, baby girl," he says, his voice filled with warmth and affection.

He presses a gentle kiss to her forehead, his love for her radiating off of him in waves.

You watch the exchange between Joel and Sarah, feeling a sense of warmth and happiness wash over you. The bond between father and daughter is something special, a testament to the love they share.

Your gaze shifts to Tommy, and you make your way over to him, a friendly smile on your face. You wrap your arms around him in a warm embrace, feeling the strength and warmth of his body against yours.

"Hey there, it's good to see you!" you exclaim, your voice filled with genuine warmth and affection.

Tommy returns your embrace, his arms tightening around you for a moment before releasing you.

"Hey, it's good to see you too!" he replies, his voice filled with genuine warmth.

You take a step back, your hands still resting on his shoulders. "So, how was the flight?" you ask, your curiosity piqued.

Tommy shrugs, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Oh, you know, the usual. Turbulence, crying babies, and the occasional snoring passenger."

You laugh, the sound rich and full. "Sounds like a blast," you say, your voice filled with sarcasm.

Tommy grins, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Oh, it was. Trust me."

As you all make your way to the car, the banter and teasing flow freely, the shared history and inside jokes adding to the sense of closeness between you.

Joel takes the lead, helping Tommy load his and Sarah's suitcases into the trunk of your car. His strong arms lift the heavy bags with ease, his movements fluid and efficient.

Sarah watches him with a proud smile on her face, her eyes filled with admiration and love.

"Hey dad, can I sit up front with you?" she asks, her voice filled with excitement and hope.

Joel shakes his head, a gentle smile on his face. "Sorry, baby girl. It wouldn't be polite to do that since it's not my car."

Sarah pouts, her bottom lip sticking out in disappointment. "But I want to sit up front with you!"

Joel ruffles her hair affectionately. "I know, but we have to be polite. Maybe next time, okay?"

Sarah nods, her disappointment forgotten as quickly as it appeared. She climbs into the back seat, her eyes sparkling with excitement and joy.

Tommy follows suit, his movements easy and relaxed. He slides into the back seat next to Sarah, a friendly smile on his face.

As you all settle into your seats, the car is filled with laughter and chatter, the shared excitement of the journey ahead palpable in the air.

As Joel navigates the car out of the airport and onto the road leading back to his house, a sense of contentment washes over you. The familiar sights pass by outside the windows, the hum of the engine providing a soothing backdrop to the lively conversation inside.

You feel Joel's hand on your upper thigh, his touch warm and reassuring, a silent declaration of his affection for you. Your heart flutters at the intimate gesture, and you steal a glance at him, meeting his gaze with a shy smile.

In the rearview mirror, you catch Tommy raising his eyebrows playfully, a knowing look in his eyes. Sarah, oblivious to the silent exchange, gazes out the window, her expression one of wonder and excitement.

The dynamic in the car is one of comfort and familiarity, each person bringing their own energy to the mix. Joel's presence is a steady anchor, his touch a source of comfort and reassurance. Tommy's playful teasing adds a lightness to the atmosphere, while Sarah's infectious enthusiasm fills the space with joy.

Eventually, you arrive back at Joel's house, the journey from the airport filled with laughter and chatter. As you all step out of the car, you lend a hand to Joel and Tommy, helping them with the suitcases and other items as you all make your way into the house.

Tommy excuses himself to put away his things in the guestroom, while Sarah does the same in her new room. You take the opportunity to help Joel fix up a few snacks for Tommy and Sarah, the two of you working together with ease and familiarity.

As you put the finishing touches on the snacks, you feel Joel's arms wrap around your waist, pulling you close. His lips find your neck, peppering kisses along the sensitive skin as he inhales your scent.

You lean back into his embrace, feeling the warmth of his body against yours. The connection between you two is intense, a magnetic pull that draws you closer together.

As Tommy makes his way back into the living room, Joel releases you, a playful smile on his face.

"I see you two found each other," Tommy says with a wink, a teasing glint in his eye.

You feel your face heat up, but Joel just chuckles, his arm draped around your shoulders.

"Can't help it," Joel says with a shrug, his gaze lingering on you for a moment before turning back to Tommy.

Tommy raises an eyebrow, a teasing glint in his eye. "You gonna tell Sarah?" he asks, grabbing a potato chip from the ceramic bowl on the counter.

Joel nods, a small smile playing on his lips. "Yeah, when she gets down here," he says, his voice filled with warmth and affection.

Just then, Sarah appears from around the corner, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "I knew it! Finally! He's been talking about you non-stop and was an absolute grump for the past few months!" she exclaims, a wide grin spreading across her face.

You feel your cheeks flush at the mention of Joel's infatuation with you, but Sarah's excitement is infectious.

Joel chuckles, his arm draped around your shoulders. "I guess the cat's out of the bag now," he says, his gaze softening as he looks at you.

Sarah claps her hands together, her eyes shining with joy. "I'm so happy for you two!" she exclaims, pulling you into a tight hug.

Tommy joins in, a warm smile on his face. "Welcome to the family," he says, his voice filled with genuine warmth.

You quickly send a message to your dad, updating him on your whereabouts and letting him know that you'll be having dinner with the Millers, and that he's welcome to join you all.

The rest of the evening is filled with laughter and conversation, the four of you sharing stories and memories as you get to know each other better.

As you were nearing finishing dinner, you hear a knock on Joel's front door, and he excuses himself to answer it. You continue to laugh loudly at Sarah's jokes while Tommy rolls his eyes playfully.

But then, you hear a familiar voice call out your name, and you find your dad standing by the entryway of the dining area. The room falls silent as all eyes turn to him.

"Hey Dad... we just had dinner. Do you want anything? I'm sure I can fix you up a plate," you say, standing up to greet him.

Your dad shakes his head. "No, just had dinner with some of the guys back at the shop. I wanted to say hi to Sarah and Tommy. Didn't think you'd still be here... thought you'd be home already," he says, giving you and Joel a pointed look.

Sarah, bless her heart, quickly jumps in to save the day. "Oh! That's my fault. I insisted she stay here for dinner since I missed her so much," she says, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

Your dad chuckles, his gaze softening as he looks at you. "Well, I'm glad you're having a good time. I'll let you all get back to it, just don’t be home too late," he says, giving you a quick hug before turning to leave.

As the door closes behind your dad, a sense of calm settles over the room. You all let out a collective sigh of relief, the tension dissipating as you begin to help clear the table and clean up the dishes. You insist that Sarah and Tommy take a break and get some rest after the meal.

Just as you're elbow-deep in soapy water, scrubbing at a stubborn spot on a plate, you feel Joel's presence behind you. His strong arms wrap around your waist, pulling you gently away from the sink.

"I'll wash 'em, darlin'," he says, his voice soft and reassuring. "You can rest too. You've done so much already. I can take it from here."

You turn to face him, a grateful smile on your lips. "Are you sure? I don't mind helping," you say, your voice filled with appreciation for his thoughtfulness.

Joel's gaze meets yours, his eyes warm and filled with affection. "I'm sure. You've been a big help today. Let me take care of this," he says, his drawl adding a soothing cadence to his words.

"I'll help dry the dishes and put them away," you say, grabbing a towel from the drawer next to the sink.

Joel chuckles, his arms wrapping around your waist as he presses a gentle kiss to the side of your head. "Fine, darlin'," he says with a wink.

You bump your hip with his, a playful grin on your face. "Come on, slowpoke. Let's get these dishes done," you say, sticking your tongue out at him teasingly.

Joel laughs, the sound deep and rich. "Alright, alright. Let's get to work," he says, his arms still wrapped around you as you begin to dry the dishes together.

The warmth of Joel's body against yours, the sound of his laughter, and the easy banter between you creates a sense of comfort and familiarity that you cherish.

As you work together, the pile of dishes slowly dwindles, the kitchen gradually returning to its former state of cleanliness.

Finally, the last dish is dried and put away, and you turn to face Joel, a satisfied smile on your lips. "See, that wasn't so bad, was it?" you say, your voice filled with playful teasing.

Joel grins, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "No, darlin', it wasn't. But I think I'll let you do the dishes next time," he says, his arms still wrapped around you.

You laugh, the sound rich and full. "We'll see about that," you say, your voice filled with playful challenge.

You and Joel make your way back to the living room, the sound of laughter and chatter filling the air. Tommy and Sarah are settled on the couch, their attention focused on the TV as they watch some show they had found.

Sarah turns her head, her eyes sparkling with curiosity as she tilts it at the two of you. "So... when are you gonna tell your dad?" she asks, her voice filled with playful teasing.

You glance at Joel, a mixture of emotions swirling in your chest. "I'm not sure... but hopefully... soon," you say, your voice filled with uncertainty.

Joel nods, his arm draped around your shoulders as he pulls you closer. "Yeah, we'll tell him when the time is right," he says, his voice filled with confidence and reassurance.

Tommy turns his head, a knowing look in his eyes as he takes in the exchange between you and Joel. "Well, whenever you're ready, we'll be here to support you," he says, his voice filled with warmth and affection.

Sarah nods, her eyes shining with excitement. "Yeah, we can't wait to see what the future holds for you two," she says, her voice filled with genuine happiness.

The room falls silent for a moment, the weight of the conversation settling over you all. But then, the sound of laughter and chatter fills the air once again, the tension dissipating as you all settle in to enjoy the rest of the evening together.

As you lean into Joel's embrace, his arm wrapped around you, you can't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over you. 

"I had a lot of fun today," you say softly as Joel walks you back home, the short distance feeling longer with each step as a mix of excitement and nervousness swirls within you.

Joel's hands are tucked away in his jeans, a subtle restraint evident as he refrains from intertwining his fingers with yours, a silent acknowledgment of the need for caution in the presence of your father.

He hums in agreement, a small smile playing on his lips. "I did too," he replies, his voice warm and filled with affection.

You glance up at him, a hint of longing in your eyes. "Wish I could stay over tonight, but y'know... my dad," you sigh, the reality of the situation sinking in as you step onto the familiar steps of your front porch.

Joel nods, understanding the unspoken boundaries that need to be respected. "I get it. We'll have plenty of time for that," he says, his gaze lingering on you with a mix of desire and restraint.

You smile, your heart filled with gratitude. "Yeah, definitely. Thanks for walking me home," you say, your voice soft and sincere.

Joel leans in, pressing a gentle kiss to your forehead. "Anytime, darlin'," he murmurs, his deep baritone sending a shiver down your spine. "I've been meanin' to ask you... d'you mind comin' with me to grab a bite to eat and then head to the store to pick up a few more things for the house tomorrow?"

You nod, a smile spreading across your face. "Of course," you reply, your voice filled with eagerness. But then you remember, “You know what small towns are like. People talk.”

“I can’t guarantee anything,” Joel admits. “But we can only do our best to keep our hands off each other until it’s the right time to have everyone know. If you think that’s for the best,” he susgests, and only try to make you feel better.

You let out a small sigh and eventually nod and give him a small smile in agreement.

Joel's eyes sparkle with affection. "I'll see you soon, darlin'," he says, sweet as whiskey.

As you watch Joel's retreating figure, a smile tugs at the corners of your lips, a silent acknowledgment of the warmth and affection that fills your heart. Reluctantly, you turn and head back towards your house, the day's events still lingering in your mind.

The familiar surroundings of your home envelope you, the sound of the television filtering in from the living room. You pause in the entryway, taking a moment to gather your thoughts before making your way towards the comforting glow of the screen.

"Hey, Dad," you call out, your voice filled with a mix of nervousness and excitement.

Your father looks up from the television, a warm smile spreading across his face. "Hey, kiddo. How was your day?" he asks, his eyes filled with genuine interest.

"It was good," you reply, trying to sound casual. "I'm going with Joel tomorrow to help him pick up some stuff for his house."

Your father raises his eyebrows, a hint of a knowing smile playing on his lips. "Oh, alright. Sarah and Tommy coming too?"

You shake your head, feeling a slight flutter in your stomach. "I don't think so... I think they wanna fix their things and rest up a bit."

Your father nods, his gaze studying you for a moment, a hint of a knowing smile playing on his lips. "Just the two of you, huh?" he says, his voice laced with slight concern.

You feel your cheeks flush, but you hold your father's gaze, determined to be honest. "Yeah, just the two of us," you confirm, your voice soft but steady.

Your father leans back in his chair, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Alright," he says, his voice calm and reassuring. "Just text me when you leave, okay?"

You nod, a grateful smile spreading across your face. "Thanks, Dad," you say, your voice filled with appreciation.

You feel a warmth spread through your chest, the weight of the day's events finally starting to catch up with you. "I'm gonna head to bed," you say, stifling a yawn. "I'm kinda exhausted."

Your father chuckles, the sound warm and familiar. "Get some rest, kiddo. You've got a big day ahead of you tomorrow," he says.

You nod, leaning in to give your father a quick hug. "Thanks, Dad. I love you," you murmur, your voice filled with emotion.

"Love you too, kiddo," he replies, his arms tightening around you for a moment before you pull away.

You tuck yourself into the cozy comfort of your bed, a big smile spreading across your face as you let out a contented sigh. 

As you settle into the familiar softness of your pillows, your mind can't help but wander to Joel. The thought of spending the day with him tomorrow fills you with a sense of giddiness and anticipation that you can't quite contain.

You hum a soft, lilting melody to yourself as you move through your morning routine, the excitement for the day ahead bubbling within you. The sound of your father stirring in the kitchen reaches your ears, and you know he's likely headed out for an early shift at the shop.

After quickly whipping up a simple breakfast, you hear a familiar knock at the front door, and you can't help the grin that spreads across your face as you practically bound towards it.

Pulling the door open, your eyes are immediately drawn to the sight of Joel standing there, his tall frame leaning casually against the doorframe. His silver curls are neatly pushed back, and he's dressed in a different colored flannel than the one he wore the day before, paired with his well-worn jeans.

A smirk plays on his lips as he takes in the sight of you, his eyes sparkling with a mix of affection and mischief.

"Mornin', darlin'," he drawls, his deep voice sending a shiver down your spine.

"Hi," you breathe, suddenly feeling a bit self-conscious, yet unable to tear your gaze away from him.

Joel chuckles, the sound low and rich. "You ready to head out?" he asks, his arm reaching out to gently brush against yours.

You nod, your heart fluttering at his touch. "Just let me grab my bag," you say, turning to retrieve it from the nearby table.

As you turn back to face him, you catch a glimpse of your father in the kitchen, offering you a warm smile and a subtle nod of approval. The gesture fills you with a sense of comfort and reassurance.

Turning your attention back to Joel, you can't help but feel a surge of excitement and anticipation. "Okay, I'm all set," you say, your voice brimming with enthusiasm.

Joel grins, his hand finding the small of your back as he guides you out the door. "Then let's get goin', darlin'," he says, his touch sending a thrill through you.

As you step out into the crisp morning air, hand in hand with the man you've come to care for so deeply, a sense of anticipation and uncertainty lingers between you.

"What are we gonna do, Joel?" you ask suddenly as you settle into the car's passenger seat, the weight of the situation pressing down on you.

To be honest, it's the last thing Joel is thinking about, and your question catches him off guard. But he can see and feel how it's affecting you, the worry and doubt etched in your expression.

"You could just sneak over to my house every night. Make sure you're back home in time for breakfast," Joel suggests, trying to lighten the mood, but he knows deep down it's not as simple as that.

"Do you think your dad might already kinda know?" he asks, his voice soft and filled with concern. "Deep down, I kinda mean, darlin'."

You shrug, a mix of emotions swirling within you as Joel drives. You feel annoyed at yourself for even bringing it up, but Joel is grateful that you did.

"Or we could just go. Take off," Joel says, thinking aloud. He feels you turn to look at him, his hand still rubbing comforting circles on your thigh.

"You mean... just leave?" you ask, the idea not entirely foreign to you.

"It's not something we have to think about right this minute, but do you really wanna stay here, in this house? In this town, tutoring kids for a few bucks an hour?" Joel questions, his voice tinged with a hint of restlessness.

He remembers one of the main things he doesn't miss about small towns – how everyone seems to know everyone else's business. And in the case of you and Joel, that would be none of their damned business.

"But you only just bought the place, and Sarah and Tommy just arrived, and I guess the only thing I'm really worried about is Dad. Screw tutoring," you say, your brow furrowed as you grapple with the weight of the decisions ahead.

"I only bought the place... only came back to town to be closer to you, remember?" Joel explains, his voice filled with sincerity. "Sarah's school transfer papers haven't been processed yet, and Tommy has to go back anyways. I didn't think in my wildest dreams that I'd have you all to myself on day one, darlin'."

"You're a pretty fast operator, that's for sure," you tease him, a hint of a smile playing on your lips, but the underlying tension remains unresolved between you.

The realization that you are well and truly Joel's, the depth of your connection with him, fills you with a sense of contentment and joy. It's a problem, but the best kind of problem to have, a testament to the love and bond you share.

Unbeknownst to you, Joel hasn't checked his messages yet, but he's confident that the call he made to boost your dad's business will yield positive results. It may not all happen today, but he's hopeful it will help your dad regain his confidence and pride in his work.

In the meantime, Joel is adamant that you shouldn't do anything you're not comfortable with. He inquires if you're the only tutor available at the college.

"Of course not," you sigh, a hint of resignation in your voice. "It'll just mean a couple of college kids keep their tutoring money from Mom or Dad, is all," you reflect, the weight of the situation settling on your shoulders.

From your perspective, the real challenge lies in explaining to everyone that you've been with Joel the whole time. The thought of facing your father's reaction weighs heavily on your mind, and Joel is keenly aware of the potential conflict that may arise.

He knows that your father's protective instincts will be triggered, and navigating that aspect of your relationship will require patience and understanding from both of you.

"Well, if we're gonna burn for it, we may as well burn together," Joel tells you, his voice filled with a mix of determination and tenderness.

"But there's no point makin' it harder on ourselves either," Joel adds, his tone thoughtful. "Let's just wait and see, huh?" he suggests, his eyes meeting yours with a reassuring gaze.

The idea sinks in – it isn't the end of the world if you stop tutoring, and if nobody has caught on to the fact that you two are together, why stir up unnecessary trouble?

Relieved when you agree, you relax back into your seat, the weight of the situation lifting slightly. Joel parks the car on a street lined with small stores and cafes, the hustle and bustle of the town adding to the charm of the moment.

Despite the external distractions, it feels wrong to be near you and not show you how much you mean to him. The subtle touches and stolen glances have evolved into something deeper, a connection that demands to be acknowledged.

By the time you graduate from those fleeting moments to a full-blown kiss once you're back in the car after your meal, the intensity of your feelings for each other becomes undeniable.

Just as the moment seems to crystallize into something special, a female voice interrupts, shattering the private bubble you and Joel had created.

"Oh! Hi, Professor," you squeak, the sudden intrusion jolting you out of the intimate moment.

Joel, his expression darkening, turns to face the unexpected visitor, a protective instinct rising within him as he assesses the situation with a keen eye.

As the scene unfolds, Joel quickly grasps the situation at hand. A mildly annoyed college professor, Professor Hannah Bennett, catches her star tutor – you – in the arms of a man, instead of where you're expected to be.

The initial tension softens as Professor Bennett's gaze meets Joel's, her expression shifting from annoyance to curiosity. Joel, ever the gentleman, gulps slightly before extending his hand in introduction.

"Professor Hannah Bennett," she says, regaining her composure, though Joel feels her hand limp in his for a brief moment, a sign of her surprise.

Her eyes flicker from Joel to you, who has momentarily lost your voice in the unexpected encounter. The professor, quick to regain her professional demeanor, decides to leave you two to your own devices.

"Your dad mentioned you were helping his friend... uh, new neighbor," she stammers, a deep blush coloring her cheeks.

"Just maybe more notice next time if you're not up for tutoring for the day, that's all I ask," she adds, her tone taking on a more authoritative air as she reverts to her professorial role.

"I think I'll take a rain check on tutoring for a while, Professor Bennett," you declare in a clear, resolute voice, your hand slipping into Joel's for support.

Joel's pride and satisfaction are evident as he grins at your decision. The old professor huffs in disapproval, muttering something about the younger generation, before swiftly retreating from the scene.

"You quit?" Joel asks, his eyes filled with a mix of amusement and admiration, leaning in to kiss you deeply before you can respond.

"I guess I did," you reply, a hint of amazement in your tone at the sudden turn of events.

"Was it hard?" Joel teases, and you shoot him a sidelong glance, a hint of amusement in your eyes.

"The professor's the soul of discretion," you assure him. "But if we're caught like that on our first time out together..."

Joel knows exactly what you mean. The potential fallout from such a public display is looming, and he can feel the weight of it pressing down on you both.

"C'mon," Joel urges, determined to enjoy the moment despite the impending challenges. "Show me around town. Take me grocery shopping," he suggests, his voice filled with enthusiasm.

"We can fill up both our pantries and maybe we can cook up a storm for dinner?" he asks, but he can see the worry etched on your face.

"Hey, your dad was alright with the idea, right? To come with me for the grocery run?" Joel reasons, hoping to ease your concerns.

Relieved when you finally yield, a smile spreading across your face as you relax. "You're right. He did," you agree.

"But easy with those kisses," you're quick to add, a hint of playfulness in your tone. "What if it was Dad that happened by just now?"

Joel bites his tongue, and to keep you happy, he agrees to the new terms and conditions. No aggressive public displays of affection – a small price to pay to maintain the delicate balance of your relationship.

Your little run-in with the professor has only affirmed Joel's feeling that small-town eyes and ears are always connected to big mouths. He knows they'll have to be cautious, at least for now.

"Say," Joel asks once you're back in the car, a mischievous glint in his eye. "Is there like a lingerie store or something in town too?"

You raise an eyebrow, unsure if he's teasing you or not. "I think there is, but I don't think that's where you wanna be seen hanging out, is it?" you ask, a playful challenge in your voice.

Joel chuckles, his gaze focused on the road ahead. "I'll keep it in mind for future reference," he explains, a hint of a smile playing on his lips.

As he navigates the quiet streets, Joel makes a mental note that you're going to need a ready supply of all things underwear. The memory of tearing yours off is still fresh enough in his mind to remind him that he wants to make it a regular occurrence.

As you and Joel make your way through the quiet streets of the town, you can't help but feel a growing sense of unease. It must be your imagination, you tell yourself, trying to push down the nagging feeling that something is off.

But as you step into the local grocery store, the truth becomes undeniable – everyone is staring at the two of you. You're nowhere near touching, and you definitely don't have a sign around your neck proclaiming your newfound intimacy, but the curious gazes and hushed whispers are impossible to ignore.

You keep forgetting that a man of Joel's stature and presence is bound to turn heads in a small town like this. But as quick as the locals are to stare and gawk, they're just as fast to look away, especially when they lock eyes with Joel's unwavering gaze.

"Grab whatever you need, whatever you want. For your place, too, darlin'," Joel says, his voice warm and reassuring, though you can see the strain in his expression, the desire to reach out and touch you palpable.

He focuses his attention on filling the biggest cart he can find, his movements efficient and purposeful. You can't help but wonder how you're going to explain a houseful of food to your father, but you're sure he's well aware of just how naturally generous Joel is by now.

After filling up not one, but two overflowing carts, you can't help but protest the sheer volume of groceries Joel has insisted on purchasing. But he's quick to reason with you, his voice low and conspiratorial.

"The less I have to go out to shop, the more time I have to work on my new house," he says, his words laced with a hidden meaning that's clear to you.

You nod in understanding, realizing that his reasoning is not just about efficiency, but also about maintaining the appearance of propriety in the eyes of the small-town community.

As you check out, the total on the receipt makes your eyes widen, but Joel simply shrugs it off, his focus on ensuring you and your home are well-stocked. You actually think it's a great idea – if you both stock up now, you won't have to venture out for anything later.

No tutoring, no errands to run, at least for the next week. The thought of having all that spare time with Joel has your heart racing with anticipation, and you're pretty sure he has a few ideas of his own.

But as Joel pulls into your street, your breath catches in your throat. There, parked out front, is your father's truck. You swallow hard, the weight of the situation suddenly pressing down on you.

"Your dad's home," Joel says, his voice strained, but there's no hint of worry in his tone. If anything, he sounds more like an animal guarding its prized possession than someone afraid of getting caught.

Taking a deep breath as Joel pulls into the driveway, you brace yourself for the moment of confrontation you've been dreading. But as you both start to unload the groceries, the anticipated showdown never materializes.

Far from it, your dad practically leaps out of the house, a huge smile spreading across his face as he welcomes you both. Joel's mood instantly shifts, a sense of relief and contentment washing over him – if your dad is happy, so is Joel.

And just like that, you're off the hook for now.

"You're home early, Dad," you observe, but he's way too pumped up about something else to ask you two where you've been. He's grinning like a maniac, and you can't help but wonder if he's finally cracked.

Catching Joel's knowing look, you realize that this must be good news somehow. Whatever it is, it's clearly put your father in an exceptionally cheerful mood.

"I dunno what you did, Joel, but it worked!" your dad almost shrieks, pumping the air with his fist before high-fiving Joel, who doesn't seem surprised at all.

"What did you do?" you ask them both, but it's as if you've disappeared or something. Your dad has gone into full Joel-best-buddy mode, slapping his back and whooping and hollering. It's not until you're all inside that you can finally get any sense out of him.

"I'm booked solid for the next three months!" your dad exclaims to Joel, who's trying his best to look excited for your father's good fortune.

"And that, uh, client of yours? The one who collects all those vintage cars? Guess who he wants to be maintaining them all?" your dad asks, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

"That's great news. I'm glad I could..." Joel begins, but your dad is on a roll.

He's re-hiring the mechanics and workers he's laid off, and he's going to "expand the business." He's going to do better than ever from now on.

He's going to...

He's going to make you vomit if he keeps going on about it.

"Dad," you finally say, talking over him to get his attention.

"Yeah, sweetie, what is it?" he asks, holding his thought so he can keep telling Joel all about his fresh business plans.

"Nothing." You smile. "But are you gonna stick around, or do you still have that tractor to fix?" you ask, wondering if you and Joel will have any time alone now.

And you haven't even thought about what's going to happen when it's time to go to bed.

"Oh, yeah. Thanks, honey, but I've got Lucas going out to do it now. Boy! Is he glad to have his old job back!" your dad exclaims loudly, beaming up at Joel.

His admiration for Joel makes you feel like you're not the only one who thinks he's pretty amazing, which he is to a lot of people. But to you, he's the only one.

"You've done the hunting and gathering," your dad proclaims, his eyes sweeping over the abundance of meat and groceries you and Joel have just started to unload. Sarah and Tommy quickly make their way outside, greeting your father and offering to help with the remaining items that belong to them.

"So I'll start making us all a feast to celebrate," your dad announces, asking you if you can finish bringing in the groceries while he and Joel "catch up."

The subtle way he singles you out of the conversation is not lost on you. If this had been a day or two ago, before you had just lived through the best twenty-four hours of your life with Joel, you wouldn't have minded. But you hadn't counted on your dad being home early, nor did you expect him to hijack your man as soon as he saw him again.

You look to Joel for help, but he only shrugs, a strange expression crossing his face when your dad's back is turned that has you stifling a giggle. Instantly, you find yourself forgiving the entire group for being in this crazy situation.

You do as your dad asks, leaving out the items he calls for, the ones he'll need to amaze you all with his cooking skills. But once that task is complete, you're left awkwardly hanging out in the kitchen, feeling miles away from Joel. Maybe you should just go to your room.

No sooner do you glance towards the hallway leading to your bedroom, Joel's stern look stops you in your tracks. The message is clear – he wants you right where he can see you.

"I might just go change," you tell the room, knowing your dad is not paying attention, still talking a million miles a minute to Joel, who gives a little nod of approval.

You haven't seen your dad this excited, ever. Whatever Joel did has clearly done the trick to help your dad out, but are you really going to have to hear about it all night? It feels like you are.

By the time you change clothes, trying to look nice but not overly dressy for Joel, your dad stops long enough to notice you for a change.

"Sorry, honey. I've just been so pumped all day. And I've just gotta talk to the man who made it all happen," he explains, shooting Joel another glowing look.

"Don't let me do all the talking, though, and don't worry about skipping tutoring today. I already spoke to the professor," he adds, making your heart freeze in your chest.

"So? What have you two been up to all day?" he asks, snapping off a celery stalk from one of the brown paper sacks, crunching it loudly as he leans back against the counter.

Now, he's all ears, eager to know what it is that you and Joel have been up to.

He looks from you to Joel, and you can feel your mouth hanging open. You're waiting for Joel to save you both, which he does without effort.

"I had sweet darlin’ here help me run some errands, we did some grocery shopping, and then she showed me around town," he says, and none of it is a lie.

Your dad's brow creases with attention as he listens, already looking bored if he can't keep talking about his own good news. Joel does skip some parts, though, including the more intimate moments you shared – your father wouldn't be interested in those details.

But once Joel suggests you help him out like you did today more often, especially with all the plans Joel has for his new house, and hanging out with Sarah and helping her by tutoring her, it starts to sound more like a job offer than anything else.

"Well, it's up to you, hon," your dad says thoughtfully after a moment, not even a hint of suspicion in his voice anymore.

As your dad busies himself selecting ingredients for the meal he's going to prepare, you can't help but feel a mix of emotions swirling within you. The prospect of spending more hours talking and eating with your family and Joel looms ahead, a bittersweet reminder of the newfound dynamics in your life.

Joel's pivotal role in saving your dad's business is evident, and it's clear that your father is more than willing to follow Joel's lead from now on. Despite the relief and gratitude you feel, there's an underlying longing for the quiet moments alone with the man who has quickly become the center of your world.

"I wasn't getting paid very much to tutor, Dad," you remind him, shooting a playful glance at Joel when your dad's attention is elsewhere. You can't help but ponder what your hourly rate might be if you were to accept his unofficial job offer, a hint of mischief dancing in your eyes.

It takes some time to adjust to the new dynamic in the kitchen with Joel and your dad. You find yourself fighting the urge to seek out Joel's touch every few seconds, a silent reminder of the growing connection between you.

As you call Sarah and Tommy over for dinner, the atmosphere shifts to one of camaraderie and relaxation. It feels good to simply talk, eat, and goof around without the weight of other concerns pressing down on you.

Throughout the evening, you notice the subtle strain on Joel's face, a reminder of the complexities of the situation. Yet, your dad remains your dad, unwavering in his friendship with Joel, creating a unique bond between the three of you.

As the meal progresses and conversations flow, you find yourself washing up alongside Sarah, the men engrossed in their post-dinner discussions out on the porch. Sarah decides to head back to the house early, leaving you with a sense of peace and contentment in the quiet moments that follow.

The realization hits you like a ton of bricks – you might have to spend the night away from Joel, not just tonight, but potentially every night until you both figure out what to do. It's not a happy thought, and you know Joel is thinking the same thing as the time for bed draws closer.

You've spent more hours today not touching and kissing than you two have actually been able to do so, and you just know Joel isn't happy about that either. So when your dad comes back inside without Joel or Tommy, you try not to sound panicked as you ask where they both are.

Your dad chuckles, "He went home, sweetie. He lives next door now, remember?" he asks, stifling a yawn and scratching his belly, letting you know he's about to turn in.

"I gotta huge day tomorrow, so I might not even see ya before or after work, but thanks for helping Joel out. He's really saved our bacon," your dad says, pecking your cheek before stretching out another yawn and heading to his room.

Not long after hearing his door close, there's a light rapping at the back door. You spring around and see Joel, his finger pressed firmly to his lips before he stalks over to you in two steps, kissing you with a desperation that takes your breath away.

"Wait 'til he's asleep again... Then come over," he murmurs, cocking his head and darting back out the door before your dad shuffles down the hall again, this time in his pajamas on the way to the bathroom.

Once your dad goes back to his room, you know he won't be coming out again. And if he does, he'll think you're asleep. So, tidying up the rest of the kitchen in record time, it isn't long before you hear your dad blowing bubbles in his sleep, and you're hot-footing it next door.

The need for Joel's touch is overwhelming, the hours spent apart feeling like an eternity. As you step into his home, the familiar scent of him envelops you, and you can't help but feel a sense of relief and excitement wash over you.

Without a moment's hesitation, you find yourself in his arms, your lips crashing against his in a desperate, passionate kiss. The world around you fades away, and all that matters is the connection you share, the hunger for each other's embrace.

Joel's deep, southern drawl sends a shiver down your spine as he leans in, his lips brushing against your neck. "You gotta be quiet for me, darlin'," he murmurs, his warm breath caressing your skin. "Can you do that for me?"

You nod eagerly, your heart racing with anticipation. The need for his touch is overwhelming, the hours spent apart feeling like an eternity. As his strong arms wrap around you, pulling you flush against his muscular frame, you melt into his embrace.

Joel's calloused hands roam your body, igniting a fire within you that threatens to consume you. His lips crash against yours in a desperate, passionate kiss, his tongue exploring your mouth with a primal hunger. You whimper softly, the sound muffled by his searing kiss.

"That's it, darlin'," Joel growls, his voice dripping with desire. "Let me hear how much you want me." His hands slide down to your hips, gripping them firmly as he grinds his hardness against you.

You gasp, the sensation sending a jolt of pleasure through your core. "Joel," you breathe, your fingers tangling in his silver curls. "I need you, please..."

He chuckles, the deep rumble vibrating against your skin. "I know, sweetheart. I'm gonna take care of you." Deftly, he lifts you, your legs instinctively wrapping around his waist as he carries you towards the bedroom.

The world around you fades away, consumed by the raw, primal need that pulses between you. Joel lays you down on the bed, his calloused hands caressing your curves as he hovers over you, his eyes dark with lust.

"You're so damn beautiful, darlin'," he murmurs, his lips trailing featherlight kisses along your jaw. "I've been waitin' all day to have you like this."

You arch into his touch, a soft moan escaping your lips. "Then take me, Joel," you whisper, your voice dripping with desire. "I'm yours."

With a growl, Joel captures your lips in a searing kiss, his hands roaming your body as he slowly, methodically undresses you. The air is thick with the scent of your arousal, and the sound of your ragged breathing fills the room.

As he buries himself deep within you, you cry out, the sensation of being so completely filled sending waves of pleasure coursing through your body. Joel stills for a moment, his forehead pressed against yours.

"That's it, darlin'," he murmurs, his voice strained with restraint. "Let me hear how much you love it."

You whimper, your hips rolling against his. "Joel, please," you beg, your nails digging into the taut muscles of his back. "Don't stop."

With a groan, Joel begins to move, his thrusts slow and deliberate, driving you higher and higher towards the precipice of ecstasy. Your bodies move in perfect harmony, the world around you fading away until all that exists is the two of you, lost in a haze of passion and desire.

The room is filled with the sounds of your shared pleasure, the heady scent of sex hanging in the air as Joel's movements become more urgent, more primal. Your bodies move as one, a symphony of desire and need as you reach the pinnacle of ecstasy together, the intensity of your release washing over you in a wave of pure bliss.

As you come down from the heights of pleasure, Joel holds you close, his heart pounding against yours as you both catch your breath. In the aftermath of your passion, you're left feeling sated, fulfilled, and more connected to Joel than ever before.

In this stolen moment, you know that no matter the challenges that lie ahead, as long as you have Joel by your side, you're equipped to confront almost anything. The future may be uncertain, but in his arms, you've never felt more at home.

[ebsmind]

𝐥𝐨𝐦𝐥 ❀ tom blyth x fem!singer reader

summary : reader and tom break up so she does best and writes a new album

warning(s) : heartbreak 💔

a/n : IM BACK FROM A HIATUS 💃🏻 i know that the tom blyth love has died down but i love doing social media au’s so much so idc 😅

ALSO in this mini series, taylor swift never wrote TTPD! the read did but im changing a couple things up! like this takes place in december of 2024 and instead of the album being called “the tortured poets department” it’s called loml! you’ll see how it plays out but i just hope everything makes sense!

ynuser i love you, it’s ruining my life

view comments

user1 girl are you OKAY???

user2 oh no that’s not good

user3 so the breakup is confirmed?

user4 tom what did you do…

user5 the end?? GIRL WHATS HAPPENING

user6 NEW ALBUM NEW ALBUM NEW ALBUM

↳ user7 now is NOT the time to clown 😭😭

celebupdates looks like our favorite couple has called it quits after almost two years of dating! what are your thoughts?

view comments

user1 no no no

user2 this next album is gonna HIT

user3 poor y/n :( i knew she loved him a lot

user4 he’s been seen with a girl in new york and it’s NOT looking good

user5 rachel imma need you to talk some sense into tom bc WHAT THE FUCK

user6 i thought they were endgame 💔

ynuser i can do it with a broken heart out on january 3rd

view comments

rachelzegler lights camera bitch smile!

❤️ by creator

user1 oh she’s HEARTBROKEN

user2 isn’t that one of her tour outfits??

↳ user3 omg it totally is

user4 this is so about how they broke up while she was on tour

user5 someone give this poor girl a hug

user6 “even when you wanna die” GIRL WHAT DID HE DO TO YOU???

user7 she’s gonna announce an album on his birthday there’s no way

ynuser my new album loml comes out on february 2nd 🖤

view comments

rachelzegler i watched you put ur blood, sweat and tears into this album 🖤 so proud of you my little poet

↳ ynuser crying. i love you.

user1 there’s no way it’s love of my life…

user2 IT WAS UNNECESSARY????

taylorswift proud of you! you deserve so much love my sweet girl 🖤🪶✨

↳ ynuser ily momma 🫶

user3 she’s about to end tom i fear

user4 releasing this on his birthday is CRAZY

user5 it’s a smart marketing move tho

user6 i bet tom’s new girl is PISSED

user7 I WAS SO RIGHT OMG

sabrinacarpenter 🫂

tomblyth what the monkey on the wall said ❤️

view comments

user1 men ain’t shit

user2 so this the girl you left y/n for?

user3 he cheated on her there’s no way

↳ user4 she def knew about y/n too

user5 rachel hasn’t said a thing about tom im worried he fucked up real bad

user6 he loves her??? poor y/n

ynuser oh

user7 Y/N??!?

*post has been deleted

[huckleberrykai]

°˖✧ huckleberrykai's masterlist ✧˖°

last updated: 22.10.2023 requests + suggestions: open! pls give me some i beg

tomorrow x together ⋆ ˚｡⋆୨♡୧⋆ ˚｡⋆

ot5 headcannons + mini fics:

➵ crush crush crush ~ [what are they like when they have a crush on you?]

➵ our song ~ [mini scenarios based on taylor swift lyrics!]

➵ let's dance the night away ~ [prom with our fav boys!]

➵ call me baby ~ [nicknames you give them!]

➵ there's food at home ~ [txt as dads!]

➵ why's it spicy? ~ [txt vs your plumping lip gloss]

➵ squish ~ [txt reacting to their chubby gf in a tight outfit]

choi yeonjun:

➵ lost ~ [when yeonjun finds a lost child in the park while trying to clear his head, he goes on a quest to find her mom.]

➵ found ~ [after that day in the park, yeonjun decides he wants to keep you both around for a long time. - part 2 to lost!]

➵ i did something bad ~ [if you're on opposite sides, then why does it feel so good to be with him? - mafia au]

➵ dance with me ~ [trying to confess to your dance class partner on valentines day is more overwhelming than you originally thought.]

➵ are you still watching? ~ [after a long tour away from his baby, yeonjun doesn't wanna pay attention to the netflix show you were watching. - SMUT 18+ ONLY !]

➵ picturesque ~ [you go on a cute date with your boyfriend, who just so happened to bring his new camera.]

➵ never been kissed ~ [your new boyfriend just wants some smooches, but you aren't sure how to tell him you've never been kissed.]

➵ comfy cozy ~ [yeonjun gets a little handsy when you surprise him with an early autumn cozy getaway for his birthday. - SMUT 18+ ONLY !]

choi soobin:

➵ sacrifice ~ [you spill a drink on a very pretty man in a club ~ inspired by sacrifice by bebe rexha]

➵ superstar ~ [when soobin gets the opportunity to work with you, he can't help but feel nervous.]

➵ birthday bunny ~ [just two tired horny lovers messily helping each other out. - SMUT 18+ ONLY !]

➵ fight for you ~ [on your 21st birthday coronation day, you finally get to meet the knight you've been admiring for so long.]

choi beomgyu:

➵ not so secret ~ [secretly dating someone in a house of six people isn't easy - especially when you wander out of his bedroom wearing nothing but his shirt.]

➵ call it what you want ~ [when you and beomgyu start dating, you aren't sure how to tell your brother soobin.]

➵ i wouldn't ask you to take care of me ~ [after returning from your honeymoon, you already have to put your vows to the test.]

kang taehyun:

➵ tae-tok [when your boyfriend is always touring or busy, you settle for the next best thing. tiktok boyfriend edits that his fans make.]

➵ the virtue's in the verse ~ [you become a secret admirer to the boy who never responds to your flirts]

➵ missing you ~ [taehyun wanted to surprise you by coming home early, but it turns out he got home just in time. - SMUT 18+ ONLY !]

huening kai:

➵ here's to teenage memories ~ [you meet a cute boy on vacation ~ inspired by kiss me kiss me by 5SOS <3]

➵ i thought we were in love already? ~ [kai tries to think of ways to get you to like him, unbeknownst to him you've been in love with him the whole time.]

➵ you smell nice ~ [kai notices his hoodies going missing, and it isn't until he visits your apartment to stay for the weekend that he realises where they all went.]

➵ toaster strudel ~ [kai wants to frost his favourite pastry before he eats it <3 - SMUT 18+ ONLY !]

➵ pizza lover ~ [sick of playing cat and dog, kai gives you a little push to cross the barrier of best friends to more <3]

➵ can't keep my hands to myself ~ [your first time with your sweet boyfriend who can't help but think about your pretty hands - SMUT 18+ ONLY !]

➵ cat and dog ~ [despite being so different, your friends think your black cat and golden retriever dynamic with your boyfriend is adorable.]

➵ memories ~ [of course being best friends with your boyfriend's sister means premium access to his childhood videos.]

➵ video games ~ [gamer bf!kai x sanrio gf!reader ~ headcanons and texts]

➵ all mine ~ [kai never considered himself the jealous type. not until he met you.]

➵ laundry basket ~ [when kai finds his sweet precious girl with his dirty shirt in her face and her hand down her pants he has to teach her a lesson. - SMUT 18+ ONLY !]

[peachhcs]

so high school au ★ “you know how to ball i know aristotle”

→ emma grace x gabe perreault

or hockey player meets top of her class (inspired by taylor swift's song so high school)

→ moodboard + au masterlist

★ ☆ au background + timeline ★ ☆

gabe meets emma first semester of freshman year at boston college

he's taking a french class for fun even though he's fluent in french

him and emma end up next to one another for the class

at first, emma's not so sure about gabe since he acts kind of dumb in the class so the professor doesn't know he's fluent

that annoys her because she thinks it's stupid when people play dumb even though they're super smart

his athletic persona also throws her off a bit and she thinks he doesn't ever care at all because he's just forced to be in his classes to be able to play

they start talking after the first week of classes when gabe's actively doing another class's work

emma actively laughs out loud when she sees him trying to do economics

"something funny?"

she shakes her head and thus starts their mini whispering argument about economics

eventually that leads to gabe asking for her number to get help later on since emma claims she's so good at econ

after a few tutoring sessions emma realizes she might've been wrong about gabe all along

the two become close fairly quickly and he convinces her to come to one of his games that weekend

she starts learning a lot about hockey from gabe whenever he'd start rambling on about it during their tutoring sessions

finally after a month of tutoring gabe decides to ask her out on a date once the boys convince him she'd say yes

she agrees!

they go out to a fancy dinner where they're both pretty nervous it goes super well & gabe kisses her before dropping her off at her dorm

they start dating a week after!

→ emma grace:

emma grace cooper

she's a twin! her brother, tyler, also goes to bc and he swims

her and her brother are super close and always have been hence why they went to the same college together

her birthday is june 15th, 2005!

she's the top of her class & is always at the library trying to get her work done

4.0 slay

she's also fairly fluent in french so her and gabe enjoy talking back and forth in french around his friends so they don't know what they're taking about

enjoys swimming like her brother and sometimes does laps with him during free swim on the weekends

doesn't know a lot about hockey, but she enjoys learning more from gabe

starts falling in love with going to the games and starts showing up early to be at the front of the glass to see everything better

always has her nose in a book & rants to gabe about what happens in each of them

gabe quite literally towers over her since she isn't that tall, but she likes that he's taller than her

wears a lot of neutral/cool tone colors

a bit of an extroverted introvert so once you get to know her she becomes super talkative and can never shut up

talks gabe's ear off a lot when they're hanging out

makes gabe go to the library with her a lot and half the time he isn't even studying and just staring at her instead of

enjoys calling gabe dorky in an endearing way and he secretly loves it

→ gabe perreault:

younger brother to jacob, jeremy, and liliane perreault

he's fairly close with all of his siblings

mostly goes to lili when he needs relationship advice since he knows his brothers would just chirp at him

birthday is may 7th, 2005!

he's been playing hockey since he could walk since his dad is a famous professional ice hockey player & all of his siblings are hockey players as well

he's now a forward at boston college and was drafted 23rd overall by the new york rangers

he's best friends with his roommate, will smith

he's instantly attracted to emma when he first meets her and they sit together in class

he's actually super smart and only acts dumb sometimes because somehow he's got in his brain that athletes can't be smart at the same time

emma definitely changes that perspective for him

was super super nervous when he first asked her out

he's more of an introvert so him and emma balance well because they can both agree staying in is better than going out

loves listening to emma ramble on about what book she's currently reading and even starts reading them too!

when she goes to his game for the first time he almost combusts when he sees her in the sweatshirt he lent her for it

emma most definitely tries to give his style more variety so it isn't just sweats and sweatshirts all the time

the guys start chirping at him a lot when they find out he likes emma

can get a little possessive and jealous sometimes what emma says goes "walk him like a dog"

his siblings love her when they first meet emma

he enjoys calling emma "pretty girl" or "emmers" or "em"

→ quick author's note:

hii!! a little break in the 700 celly requests to introduce my newest au i've been saying for months i'd do!! i absolutely adore gabe and this au idea was actually sent in by anon in my inbox, so whoever you are thank you so much for the idea i love it!! i can't wait to develop their story more, so please send some requests in for emma and gabe too!!

[kekaki-cupcakes]

Hello kekaki! Cloud you please write something for Jason with a stoic/shy body painter reader? I feel like he’d be a great model, cause he’s very patient and all. What do you think? No worries if u don’t feel like it, obvs!

I actually loved this idea and ended up putting heaps of headcanons and shit in it too because I love this kinda ask! [everyone usually just does simple stuff which is all g lol but this is so creative maybe its just cause im artsy haha] Anyway this is mixed in with an ask I got for a London Boy [Taylor Swift] type ask x Jason <3 <3 <3

There's still a trace of body paint--- Jason x Body paint artist!reader [London Boy-Taylor Swift]

»»————-　★　————-««

Jason tried not to laugh.

It was so hard though, because holy Hades the paintbrush was so cold and it was tickling his sides and he began chewing on his lip to stop himself from squirming away.

He sat as still as he could, which wasn’t hard, one thing Camp Jupiter got right was the whole soldier thing, and Jason could stand still for hours at a time without moving if he had to. And this way he was sitting on a cushioned stool watching your expression shift when you thought no one was watching you, or eating MnM’s, listening to whatever pop song came over the little radio by the open window. 

The smell of strawberries wafted through with the warm summer air from the fields a few cabins over, and it made him hungry, but he wasn’t about to get up and ruin the carefully designed strokes all down his back and over his shoulders.

He didn’t even get to know what it was until the end, apparently, which was so mean of you, but then you’d stick your tongue out while you worked a little bit in concentration and he forgave you. 

You looked up and made eye contact too quickly for Jason to play it off, and you took the tiny brush off his shoulder slowly, “what?”

“Nothing,” Jason said quickly, chewing the inside of his lip to stop his grin this time, and turned to the rest of the cabin. There was one set of bunks, but the rest of the beds were all retro hammocks hung between messy easels and tapestries and a few statues in progress. 

There was a mini fridge with a salt lamp on top, and every windowsill had little trays of incense next to the mugs filled with paint brushes or lemonade. His view was skewed when you spun the stool around a little and took another brush from the table, this time with an inky dark blue. 

Jason looked up at the roof to move his hair when the cold began to dot lightly where his neck met his shoulder. There was a big circle cut out of the white stone ceiling, replaced with glass that let the light in like a halo. It fit the whole scene though, you looked like an angel, even with the bit of melted MnM on your cheek.

“Hey,” he started, noticing the polaroid’s stuck to the wall around the mustard colored hammock belonging to you. “Can I ask..” 

“Hm?” You asked, getting a sponge and dabbing at the scars shredding up the right of Jason’s lower back. 

He wasn’t sure what your answer to the question would be, and if it was something bad, he didn’t want to make you upset, but he was curious. “How did you… how did you get here? When were you claimed?”

“Well, it wasn’t as dramatic as falling out of a burning chariot into the lake,” you muttered, wiping yellow paint from your hands onto your forehead without noticing. “My mum booked a flight to New York when I was ten, and then drove me to the borders of Camp.”

Jason looked down at his shoes, “your mortal mum?...She just left you?” 

You shook your head quickly, “oh, no, it wasn’t like that. She told me I was a demigod when I was six. Didn’t want to keep secrets. Said she went out with a lady at Glastonbury that dropped me off a few months later with a bunch of flowers.”

“I lasted a lot longer than the flowers,” you chuckled quietly, “I knew I was coming here for ages, and I knew I was a son of Iris. We didn’t get a lot of monsters in England, I’ve been attacked more by going to Starbucks on the weekends here than living in Manchester for ten years.”

Jason didn’t like talking about his own mum, but the way you smiled talking about yours, he figured you didn’t mind. “Do you miss her?”

“A lot, but Iris messages aren’t exactly hard for me,” you said with a shrug, dipping the paintbrush into the little tub Jason was balancing on his thigh. “Besides, Iris pays for my mum to fly over every summer, cause she feels bad that she had a kid with someone so far away.”

“Really?”

You smiled again, and the little shiny crystals on your necklaces clicked against the beads, “she’s a pretty great mum, as far as godly parents go. She’s gonna pay for art school, as long as I show her everything I paint.”

Jason blinked. “Does that include me?”

“Surely you’ve met her, you’ve met all the gods, right?” You asked, eating an MnM and swishing the paintbrush around in a cup. Jason was pretty sure you’d just cleaned it with lemonade, but he didn’t say anything. 

He blinked, watching the colorful stained glass of your earrings catch in the light, “Yeah, but that was before…”

Before he’d found you with Racheal using the blank stone wall of his cabin as a space for her next mural. He didn’t really care if Zeus got annoyed, because you had pink paint on your cheeks and you were using a pegasus called Clover to put all of the paint tubs on and Racheal was saying something stupid and you were laughing with your nose all crinkled up and if Zeus got annoyed by that, Jason would take the smiting himself.

Before he’d somehow ended up in the same activities together after he told Piper about you [who could convince Annabeth to do anything for her somehow, even without her mothers tongue].

Before he’d offered to sit still for hours at a time so that you could build a portfolio of paintings on his scarred skin. He’d had to ask instead of agree, because you weren’t exactly the outgoing type. Neither was Jason, so you could sit together for hours with only the sound of the tens of wind chimes outside the cabin and paint tubes being used to their last drop.

Before Jason found himself more invested in the process of the painting then the outcome. 

He gulped, and mentally shook his head, “well, I hope the art school people don’t mind scars. You’d have to use someone else.”

“I don’t care if they do. I’d still paint you,” you said quietly, looking up from the dark blue sketchy strokes Jason could only just see without his glasses. Then you looked away, changing your paintbrush for the yellow one, “unless you didn’t want to.”

“I do.”

It was silent for a moment, and then you smiled, your lip piercing shining in the sun that streamed in, “okay.”

“I’m done,” you said a few minutes later, passing Jason the rest of the MnM’s once he could move without fear of ruining the paint. He watched as you pulled a mirror out from behind an easel depicting what looked like a robot bear with square teeth and red eyes. 

Jason stared at the blues and golds with wide eyes. He didn’t want to blink, he didn’t want to not see it. He didn’t know how to put it into words. “...Wow.” 

Wow didn’t seem like enough, but you grinned nonetheless with a shy shrug, “It’s a Van Gogh, well my version of it. Everyone likes Starry night, but I like Starry Night Over The Rhone a lot more, so…” 

»»————-　★　————-««

“Is that her?”

You rolled your eyes at the question, the only one Jason had been able to ask the past ten minutes as you both sat at a park bench outside the movies, an old one near the markets that just played grainy reruns in its shabby chic theater. “If you ask one more-”

“No I think that’s Iris,” he whispered with wide eyes, “she’s staring at me.”

About to explain that the old lady with a basket of kittens and a black lace umbrella [it was sunny. She was probably a vampire] was not your mother, you turned to see the woman who was actually your mother, in her bell bottoms and matching top, hoop earrings made of tiny dreamcatchers casting colorful light everywhere. 

You grabbed his wrist, and pulled him along into her cloud of floral perfume that hurt your nose when she brought you into a bearhug. “Hi mum.”

“Darling!” She shrieked, kissing your cheeks and holding your shoulders and she shook them violently, then snuck another hug while you were making sure your head was still attached to your shoulders, “oh, how I’ve missed you!” 

“Missed you to mum,” you said, pulling away with a smile, and turned to Jason, who had the same expression big dogs get when they’re picked up. “Um, mum… this is Jason.”

“Yes, yes! I’ve heard all about you!”

“...He’s my boyfriend.” 

»»————-　★　————-««

[x-liv25-jamieswife]

Nash and Xander hc?

nash and xander head canons

i'm literally so in love with both of them, and i need more of them (jlb im begging). might be shitty bc my period is making me want to dig my own grave rn and bury myself (also not proof read)... hope you like them<3

xander will ramble to nash about his inventions

nash helps him saw wood pieces and things for his gadgets bc xander won't admit it but he's scared of saws.

at first, when xander first started hanging out with his father, nash would follow him to make sure nothing bad happened.

nash tried to teach him how to drive, but xander is crazy behind the wheel so nash gave up

when they were younger, xander used to love it when nash would give him piggy back rides

nash would not let anyone touch xander when he was a baby. he held him all the time and didn't want to let him go

xander will visit nash at the bar when he doesn't come home for a few weeks bc he hates when he isn't home. nash always feels bad and goes back

nash read him bedtime stories (he still does)

xander surprises him with taylor swift merch or gadgets he created that are taylor swift themed or smth (idk what this could be but we all know that xander would make them hand made gifts) (nash is canonically a swiftie)

they make memes together/send each other cringy memes

nash installed a mini fridge in xander's lab and stocks it up regularly to make sure xander eats

nash will sometimes find xander sleeping in his lab, and will somehow manage to carry him up to his room.

xander was nash's best man at the wedding and nash was his.

they'll wake each other up by blasting taylor in their speakers (cause they totally have speakers in their rooms)

both avid romance readers who host a monthly book club with grayson (nash is more of a fan of contemporary romance whilst xander is more into dystopian and stuff)

xander didn't have many friends when he was younger bc of how much of a nerd he is. nash used to pick him up from school and take him to lunch.

when xander was younger, he was afraid to be himself bc of the hate he received online (as a literal child, also xander said people have hated him his entire life so..). nash used to encourage him to be who he wanted to be by buying him things he could use in his lab or stuff like that. nash is the reason why xander isn't ashamed of himself.

xander used to hide under nash's bed and try to scare him when he was younger

he would get nash to check if there were monsters in his closet when he was like 5.

nash used to help him study for his tests (not bc he needed it but he liked being around him (same goes for xander))

nash got xander to teach him how to bake so that he cold bake libby little treats.

they have staring competitions when xander does something nash doesn't approve of or thinks is dangerous. the one who loses basically admits that the other is right. nash pretty much always wins.

xander takes pride in being taller than nash (xander - 6'3 and nash - 5'11 (i think)). he'll walk up next to him and pass his hand over his head and then over nash's to flex (idk if this makes sense)

nash taught xander how to twerk after his bachelor party.

xander was aware of how nash felt like he had to keep this whole family going when he was younger. he used to cuddle up next to nash at night to try to make him feel better.

they like going out and buying tiramisu (their dog) little outfits.

xander learned how to make hats to make nash cowboy hats.

xander had a button collection (idk why) when he was younger, and whenever nash used to grow out of his button shirts, he would rip out the buttons and give them to nash

nash is always the first to try out his inventions. xander will call him the second its ready and he'll drop everything to go see xander

xander used to make dances and make nash watch them (he was like 7 and would make a choreography to love story by taylor or smth)

might make a part two for them bc i absolutely love them and need more.

[teacasket]

betty

genre: angst with a happy ending au: high school au warnings: swearing word count: 0.6k   pairing: gn!reader x lee minho song: betty by taylor swift mini series: cruel summer // august // betty // cardigan // the 1 a/n: the reader in this is not the same reader as cruel summer and august. this reader is minho’s ex and is also featured in cardigan.

I’M ONLY SEVENTEEN, I DON’T KNOW ANYTHING.

There’s an unfamiliar blue car parked underneath the maple tree in front of your house, and Minho sharply inhales as he drives past it. Up until three months ago, that was his spot. At every single party you hosted, his car would be parked there. It didn’t matter if he showed up late; all of your friends knew that the maple tree was reserved for Minho. Boyfriend privileges.

He misses them. He misses you, of course, but as he scans the block for any open space, he really misses being your boyfriend.

He heard about your back-to-school party secondhand from Dahyun of all people, the same person who told you what happened in the summer. You didn’t send him an invite, but why would you? It still stings though. He should have been helping you set up for the party.

Buying stupid gold balloons that spell out “SENIORS.” Dumping chips into a bowl and sneaking in his favorite songs onto the party playlist. Kissing you whenever you purse your lips in contemplation. Just like last year.

He finally finds a parking spot near the end of the block. What will he say to you? The speech he planned suddenly feels wrong, and he can’t craft another one in the time it will take for me to reach your house. What does he say? How will you take it? Lost in thought, he swings his car keys around his index finger, nearly dropping them when he realizes that he’s standing on your porch. Muscle memory, he assumes. He has stood in this place so many times before.

The porch light is on, as if you expected his arrival, and two moths flutter around the glass. Muffled music and laughter can be heard through the walls. Before he can think about it any longer, he rings the door bell.

Cursed as he is, Dahyun answers the door. She blinks twice before shouting into the house, “Minho is here!”

Almost immediately, you appear in the doorway, a crowd backing you like an army. Your cardigan hangs off of one shoulder, and you hastily pull it back up as you take in the sight of him.

“Hi,” you say, your fingers limply waving hello. “What are you doing here?”

“Can we talk?”

“What do you want to talk about?”

He doesn’t want to do this in front of an audience, but you cling to the threshold for support. Three of your close friends huddle behind you, metaphorical teeth and claws bared.

“I’m sorry,” he says quietly, meekly. His shame increases tenfold as dozens of eyes bore into him. “I fucked up, and I don’t know how to fix it or how to make it up to you, but I want to. Tell me what I need to do, and I’ll do it. I’ll spend my whole life making it up to you if I have to. Please. You’re the only one for me. It’s only ever been you.”

“I know.”

Then you step onto the porch and kiss him.

He doesn’t care that everyone is watching or that Dahyun will tell the entire school on Monday. Normally he would, but the feeling of your lips on his again is better than he dreamed it. When you draw back, a shy, soft smile forms. His hands find yours.

“Let’s go for a drive?” you suggest.

“What about your party?”

You glance back at your guests, some of whom are recording with their phones. Your smile turns mischievous and God, he’s missed you. “They can handle it. C’mon.”

The walk to his car is long, but the drive is short because, at the next streetlight, he pulls over to pull you in for a longer kiss.

BUT I KNOW I MISS YOU.

[hiddleswiftt]

invisible string. (inspired by the taylor swift song “invisible string”)!

mo (jonah hauer-king character) x fem reader!

you had finally moved into your apartment that you were living in with him. your friend mo. you’ve known mo since forever, but you finished college about three years ago with him, your other friends tiff and maia, and you thought that you should move out of your parents house.

good for you, you already had a job, and now somewhere to live and some company, which was mo. mo was and has always been good to you, all for the good reasons. you both always have had a soft spot for each other. tiff thought you two were seeing each other or hooking up at one point, she thought that was the reason why you wanted to move in with him.

“yes and no”, you thought, as you moved in the last thing into the apartment with mo, continuously thinking about what tiff said. you did love him, but you probably thought he would be seeing other people.

it was nice being in mo’s company. he was slightly messy and you were neat but you didn’t mind it. whenever tiff would come over to talk about her breakup with her ex boyfriend justin, she’d always pick at mo’s messiness and compliment you for your tidiness. you’d laugh at this and nudge his arm. he’d smile at you widely with his dimples always showing. you loved his dimples. it was one of your favourite things about mo.

there was one day that you were both sitting on the sofa together, not quite snuggled up to each other yet, but you would usually do after a few glasses of wine you would.

one day in particular this happened but you both seemed more sober after the same amount of glasses of wine. you both were sitting on the sofa as you would usually, cuddled up together watching something, with his hand around your waist. that was a new addition to the whole pattern, which you liked and didn’t stop him from doing it.

you felt comfortable. you felt loved.

you needed to get up, just to process what happened. “want another glass, mo?” you ask, moving to get up. he nods but instead he gets up, getting the drink and one for himself for you.

you sat on the sofa as jonah gets another glass of wine, covering your mouth with excitement. your mind goes blank. so when mo walks back in, he just spots you staring blankly at the wall.

“you okay, y/n?” he asks you, holding the glasses of wine. you both know you’re both probably going to get a little drunk tonight. you nod, turning back to him, admiring his gaze. “yeah. yeah, im fine!” you say, excitedly.

mo is just about to sit down with you again. he sits a little away from you at this point, he was about to say something but you end up saying something before him. “mo?” you ask, admiring his face lovingly, “can we talk?”

he looks at you, “are you okay, y/n?” he asks you, making sure you’re okay. he holds your arms for protection. you look at him. you think about blurting out what you’re gonna say but mo ends up saying it first: “i know.”

you look surprised. does he know what you’re thinking? “i love you too, y/n” mo says, now holding your cheeks lovingly. all of a sudden your heart starts racing and your cheeks heat up.

all you can say is: “really?”. but all mo does is lean in to kiss you. you take his hands off your cheeks and you put your hands on his cheeks instead, embracing him in a long and passionate kiss, where in the end both of you end up laying on top of each other and then in each other’s arms.

MINI TIME SKIP -

you sat back up, admiring his face. “you know, i think i fancy my flatmate?” you say, playing with his hair as he lay next to you on the sofa, now examining your face as you did for his. “do you know him?” you continued, smirking at him, “he’s a cool guy…”

he laughed and smiled at you. yet again, his dimples were showing. “is that so?” he asked you. all you could do is nod and laugh. “very..” you answered him, giving him a small peck on the lips.

“i love you, y/n” mo tells you, smiling at you as you lay back into his arms. he put his arm back around you.

you smiled at his words and snuggled back into his side again, finally happy that you finally convinced yourself to share your feelings for mo. “i love you too, mo..”

you always knew there was an “invisible string”between you two. but here it was. tying you to him.

please don’t copy my work! <3

(let me know what you think of this fic by giving this post a like, follow and a comment!)

— h4uerkings

[captainsimagines]

pretty woman, this is me trying || three

Summary: Bucky Barnes does not like to be touched. He’s completely ready to live a distant life and give up when the time is right. Until Stark hires him his own personal pretty woman. Over time, Bucky Barnes begins to learn how to touch again. How to feel again. How to love himself again.

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Female SexWorker!Reader

Trope(s): Holiday Fanfic ; Slow-Burn ; Friends to Lovers

Based on the Song(s): sweet nothing by Taylor Swift and Iris by The Goo Goo Dolls

(3/14)

Mini-Series

Warnings: references to past sexual abuse; strong language; references to sex; reference to past trauma

Word Count: 2,390+

Author’s Note: Steve isn’t going to be evil, I promise. Oops. xxMoni

~

    You entered through a different entrance today. One less guarded and one that didn’t full-body screen you.

You dressed in a simple t-shirt and jeans with a puffy sweater to protect from the cold. Unsure of where to go after entering, you wandered around the visitor center for a few minutes.

No one looked at you funny. They had a nametag ready for you and a cup of coffee. You were treated spectacularly well by the secretaries and random agents you passed. Perhaps they didn’t know your occupation, perhaps they did. It’s hard to believe they’d act the same way with Natasha Romanoff.

Then again, Natasha Romanoff would skin them alive before an insult was even thought.

“You lost?”

Oh, fuck. Oh, shit. It was Steve fucking Rogers. Steve fucking Rogers was talking to you.

“Uh, yeah. I’m looking for Bucky Barnes.”

Something strange flashed in his eyes. You swear his chest puffed out a little more and a guard went up. “What did you want with him?”

“He invited me over today. Something about taking a walk in the park.”

“Bucky doesn’t take walks in the park.”

“Bucky could have been talking in code for all I know. But he does know I’m coming.”

Steve stepped closer, crossing his arms. “I know his codes.”

You did your best not to cower, but he was so much bigger than you. One push and you’re certain he could pop one of your main arteries. “Can’t you just call him?”

“We have a roster of all the known visitors. If your name isn’t on the list, then you’re not allowed up. So let me go check—”

“It’s alright, Rogers. I invited her. Don’t pull the shield on an innocent.”

Bucky emerged from the hallway in that famous sweater and leather jacket combination you’ve seen him wear in paparazzi photos. But since it was actively snowing outside, his hair was down. Down and wavy and freaking conditioned.

“See, Captain Rogers? I wasn’t about to blow up the building.”

Steve looked you up and down, sneering for a second before it turned into something kinder. Was this the famous Captain America? Rude and overprotective? You understand that you’re a stranger and Bucky Barnes wasn’t a person to venture out all that often, but did you look menacing? Was there some kind of sign hanging over your head that read: Evil Hooker?

Or.

Steve never mentioned you being a hooker. A sex worker, even. Nothing of the sort came out of his mouth. He actually believed you to be Bucky’s… friend.

So Tony Stark and Bucky were the only ones who knew about this deal. Well, and Pepper Potts and Maria Hill. It made this whole thing a lot more comfortable. You didn’t really want the Captain America knowing you were hired to “fuck” his friend.

“Where did you meet?”

Bucky grumbled something incoherent underneath a heavy breath, glaring at his friend as he rushed to stand next to you. Not touching, but still… protective. And that little detail made you feel ten times greater than the star-spangled man.

“We met last week. At the bakery down the road. Now if you’ll excuse us,” Bucky explained, tilting his head for you to follow him. He began walking back to the hallway he came from, not sparing another glance over a shoulder. You met Steve’s eye—his incredibly judgmental eye—and gave him a tight smile.

“Bucky usually tells me about girls,” Steve interrupted you mid-step, speaking low enough that not even the super soldier ahead of you could hear.

“I don’t know your relationship,” you reasoned.

“No,” Steve sighed, looking you up and down again. “You don’t.”

You squinted at the man, suddenly angry, but you did yourself a favor and reeled in the frightful emotion. He had a shield and super strength, but the ball forming in your stomach had every indication of barreling through those things. Being looked down upon by men did something to you. It made you vicious, and rightfully so. A sort of viciousness that turned light blue to red and urged you to claw downward.

“It was nice meeting you, Captain.”

You turned on your heel, head held high, swallowing the neanderthal rage pounding through your veins.

    Bucky really liked milking the fuck out of the heater. Your cheeks were hot and you were starting to sweat in your boots.

“Tea? Coffee?”

“You got bread?”

Bucky, looking away from you,  paused. Quite comically, you might add. He lowered the coffee pot and turned around, one eyebrow high and lips threatening to widen into a grin. “I have bread.”

“And butter?”

“I’ve got bread and butter.”

“Good, because I’m starving.”

Bucky pulled out a long roll of French bread—freshly baked—and removed the packaging. He sliced a few pieces, piling them in a small basket. Then he got some packaged butter from the fridge. Not just any butter. Those tiny packets of butter from Panera. Dozens of them.

“You’re my favorite Avenger.”

Bucky snorted, buttering a piece of bread for himself. He stood while you sat on one of the barstools, buttering your own piece as well. “All it takes is to feed you, huh?”

“Well, when I asked for bread and butter, I was expecting you to toast some wheat bread and pull out the margarine.”

“Never. This is my favorite peasant dish. Might as well have fresh ingredients.”

You covered your mouth, laughing softly. “A peasant dish, huh?”

Bucky shrugged. “My Ma used to make this. But sometimes she’d head down to the Puerto Rican stores and buy some tortillas. I’d eat them with butter and jelly.”

“Please tell me they were flour and you at least heated them up.”

“I am not as uncultured as I look.”

Now that made you grin big.

You two ate in a comfortable silence, awkward questions stored for until after your stomachs were full. In the meantime, you glanced around Bucky’s apartment. You noticed things you didn’t have the time to notice yesterday.

Small accents on the walls: drawings, picture frames, and hanging ornaments. Drawings Captain Rogers most likely drew. Pictures that only showed Bucky, Steve, and Sam. Ornaments that didn’t have Christmas accents exactly, but rather the names of each individual Avenger. Like those Avengers made the ornament themselves. It was a personalized apartment, after all. Like Bucky valued his personal space and wanted it to be comforting when he returned from a hard day of battling the bad guys.

Kind of like you.

Your apartment was full. Like, literally. Counters full of picture frames, Etsy art, sweaters strung randomly. It was homey and warm, made to be welcoming.

You wonder if Bucky feels the same: Like more will never be enough.

“We can play 20 questions! Though, it might get kind of boring unless we search up the question chart—”

“I don’t like being touched.”

You paused, mouth wrapped around a strangled syllable. Something cracked in your throat before you cleared it, the remnants of the end of a word. “Alright, straight with it. Got it.”

“I was tortured and brainwashed and abused and sexually assaulted while in Hydra custody. That’s why I’m comfortable with hiring you. You have a choice, and you give me a choice. The two go hand in hand.”

You wanted to say something. Anything. But nothing especially intelligible sprang to mind.

“And don’t apologize or tell me, ‘Damn, that sucks.’ I’ve heard enough of it throughout my two years of freedom.”

“Then I’m drawing a blank.”

His lips twitched, but he continued, “Just… Be normal with me. Just don’t touch me.”

“No touch at all? What if I have to push you out of the way of a moving car?”

He made a noise resembling a chuckle. “I’d probably survive it.”

Not even to save his life? Alright, you can work with that. This man simply wanted companionship and you were an expert in that, too. Kendall enjoyed touching your waist or holding your hand during dinner, kissing you on the cheek or hugging you for too long. But he was, first and foremost, seeking company. And since this Christmas Ball called for nothing more than your company, everything was settled.

“And don’t get me wrong,” Bucky started, looking pained as he spoke. “I want to… I just…”

“Bucky,” you said, keeping your voice soft. “Is there something else you want to ask me to—”

“I want to learn how to touch people again. For them to stand near me again. To not… panic when someone raises a hand for a fucking high-five.”

You nodded, somewhat understanding. “It’s a gradual process. Some of the girls who experienced abuse while working or by monogamous partners described it that way.”

“Do I just need to get used to it?”

You shook your head. “It’s more like… Reminding yourself that sweet touches exist, too. That casual touches are just that. Casual. That accidental touches are bound to happen.”

“Tricking my mind into it.”

“Perhaps. But then again, it won’t be a trick that far down the road. It will be real.”

Bucky grumbled, looking down at the counter. Ideas were flying around in your head. Things to get him reacting well to you being around, the smallest of jump scares, ideas for the softest touches.

But this wasn’t just any client. This was Bucky Barnes. World War Two veteran, prisoner of war, war hero, Avenger.

That was who you were trying to help.

And you had the perfect method for introduction.

“Up for a walk?” you suggested, hopping off the barstool and grabbing your purse.

Bucky stood slowly, raising an eyebrow. “To where?”

“The fun is in the surprise!”

Bucky Barnes looked you up and down, assessing, but ultimately took a chance. He followed you out of the apartment, locking the door behind him.

And that alone was an achievement.

He followed you.

You would not fail him now.

~

     “Keep up with me!”

Bucky tried his best to keep the rumble of his laugh minimal. He wanted to be nice, to make this experience comfortable for you, too. But he didn’t want to seem overeager—What if you took it the wrong way? What if you expected something from him? So Bucky did his absolute best to not smile fully, to keep his laughs low, to keep his hands in his pockets.

He jogged to catch up, nearly slipping on ice. He doesn’t know how you haven’t fallen and face planted yourself. You were wearing running shoes—Bucky, and he has been chastising himself since you arrived at his front door, completely assumed you would be wearing heels. Everything he knows about sex workers is unbuttoned blouses and shoes too difficult to walk in. But then again, there are the ones who make their income on the internet.

You twirled and clapped your hands together, looking up at the sign that blinked through the layer of freshly fallen snow.

And Bucky made it a goal to google everything about sex workers in the modern age, because he feels like he should be punched in the face and spit on.

Oh.

Bad thing to think about right now. Bucky never liked when that happened to him back then.

“You want to get used to touch again? Start here!”

The Manhattan Kennel.

“Animals?”

You snorted, pulling open the door. Bucky raced to hold it open for you, internally cursing that you weren’t more careful.

“You can’t just barrel into someplace without assessing the possible threats!” Bucky whispered-screamed as close as he could to your ear. He understood that it was just a kennel… But to not search for threats ahead of you? Bucky takes it upon himself to do just that.

Two workers behind the counters, both male and in their early thirties. Surrounded by what looked like parrots and turtles—

“You think I, as a hooker, don’t look for threats?”

Bucky blinked, swallowing the embarrassing lump in his throat. You continued, “Two males, both of which look like they could carry me out easily. My purse has pepper spray and a pocket knife. I know how to break a nose with the heel of my hand. The dude on the left has a broken leg, by the way. And I’m pretty sure the one on the right is eyeing you instead of me.”

“Welcome to the Manhattan Kennel! How can we help you both find your lifelong friend?” the man on the right said, his voice a little higher-pitched than Bucky was expecting.

“Exactly,” you finished.

Bucky turned to you, hoping his equal amount of disbelief and proud astonishment were visible.

So he underestimated you. Okay. Bucky was thinking of kicking himself in the ass later, anyway.

“Do you have an area where we can sit and have the little angels run all over us?” you asked.

“Right up here,” the worker responded, as if that was a common request.

Was Bucky going to react well to this? Hell if he knows. He’s never exactly interacted with animals after his time with Hydra. They don’t incite the same amount of discomfort he usually feels when a human being stands near him. And Sam held a Veteran Dog event just last month—not that Bucky went, but he did see them being led into the compound.

But this did seem like a good idea. In theory. At least you weren’t touching him.

“We’ve got a mix of dogs this season. Big ones, little ones, fluffy mates, seniors, puppies—Was there any kind you wanted to look at?”

You turned to Bucky, your eyebrows raised sweetly and doe-eyes waiting for an answer. Were your eyes naturally that big?

“Um,” Bucky stuttered, swiping a nervous hand down the back of his neck. His metal fingers got caught in the loose strands of his hair-bun. “The seniors sound nicer.”

“Perfect!” the worker cheered, “Just make yourselves comfortable in the green playpen and I’ll have about five dogs come around right now.”

The worker exited, leaving the two of you alone. Bucky created a respectable distance, clearing his throat uncomfortably as you obviously pretended not to notice.

“Do you like dogs?” you asked.

“Never really gave it much thought.”

“Really? I like both dogs and cats. I love all animals equally. I don’t segregate.”

Bucky chuckled, wiping his bottom lip softly. “You mean, discriminate?”

“That, too.”

“Are you looking to adopt one today?” he fished, kicking an invisible pebble with his left foot. Looking down at his feet calmed him a bit.

“Don’t have the space. I’d love to adopt a tiny, little Shih Tzu, though.”

That pulled a small smile to his lips. “You look like someone who would twin with a small dog.”

“You’re not far off. I’d match Christmas sweaters and everything.”

He was in the middle of imagining you squeezing a Shih Tzu sized head through a doggy sweater when the shelter worker returned, clicking his tongue in a call to the dogs behind him. Several older dogs, white around the mouth and eyebrows, came barreling through the small gate. They ignored him at first, finding their own scents much more interesting. But they took notice the moment you fell to your knees, squealing in excitement and comments of sweet praise. Three dogs, a golden retriever and two corgis, barreled into you. Licking in eagerness, barking with elation, searching for your hands so they may pat their heads and tickle their ears. You obliged wholeheartedly, deciding to lay down and take the rushed steps to your stomach, your chest. You laughed and awed, nowhere close to stopping, in a strange and soft element.

You were on your back with weight on your chest, and you weren’t screaming in terror. You were reaching out and fluffing hair on the top of the dogs’ heads, and you weren’t breaking any fingers. Your clothes were being pulled and scratched at, but not torn off.

You were happy. Pumped with glee and spirit.

It damn near made Bucky tear up.

“You want to pet some?” the worker asked, staying by the gate. There were two other dogs drinking from the water bowls in the corner, minding their own business. The chihuahua drank and drank, while the other—a German shepherd—stared at him. The dog tilted his head, his tongue slipping out quickly to swipe at his nose. He made no move to approach Bucky. He just stared, interested, and kind.

Bucky hesitated, glancing over at you for a signal. You turned toward him, grinning from ear to ear, holding one of the corgis to your chest. You didn’t seem to mind the fuzzy butt near your neck.

“It’s up to you,” you clarified, doing your best to shrug. “But this would be a good first exercise.”

You didn’t divulge more information than needed in front of a stranger. The worker made no indication he had even heard at all. So Bucky lowered himself down to his knees, then onto his bottom, crossing his legs in an easy pretzel. He removed his gloves, breathing in long, calculated breaths. Preparing himself to be trampled—with paws, not with boots.

The German shepherd inched closer, curious, his beautiful brown and black coat mesmerizing Bucky. It had been a while since Bucky had seen a German shepherd. Last time was during the war. Steve had just returned with a small, rescued unit and gave his tent over to an injured sergeant. The man, who Bucky recalled as having the most gorgeous green eyes, had given his cot to his equally injured dog. With a horrid gunshot wound in his shoulder, the soldier sat on the cold, forest floor and wrapped his dog’s leg. Bucky hadn’t questioned him, hadn’t spoken much to the soldier, really.

All he remembered about that encounter was saying, “Describe the landscape of where you were held captive,” and the soldier replying, “This rascal probably remembers better than me.” Bucky couldn’t actually ask the dog the same question so he nodded his thanks, and never saw the dog or the soldier again.

Bucky figured it was safer to hold his flesh hand out first—safer for the dog. He highly doubted he would lose a finger to a dog with half his original teeth. The dog sniffed, nuzzling his nose in Bucky’s palm, groaning softly. Bucky released a shaky breath, one that hurt a little as it exited his lungs, but he sat still. He sat completely frozen, not risking moving, because this was the first time someone or something had touched him without him freaking out in a long time.

A paw repeatedly brushed against his knee, telling him to do more than just offer out his hand. So Bucky turned his hand over, rested it on the dog’s forehead, and pet him.

Then he used both hands.

Close to sobbing now, Bucky buried his face in the dog’s neck. The dog did the very same.

“Bucky?”

Bucky hummed, pulling the heavy dog closer.

“Did this make you happy?”

Bucky breathed in the mix of dust, dirt, and—weirdly enough—tortilla chips, that made up the dog’s coat. Honest in his answer, Bucky barely nodded as he mumbled, “It feels good to be hugged again.”

~

[inthefieldwithdiamondbutterflies]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY FAVORITE WALL CRAWLER

-warning this post will be a tad bit chaotic and long but hopefully lots of fun. I had fun doing this

In honor of his special day, i decided to make him a birthday cake. 🎂

I’ve had this headcanon that every year on his birthday he loves a chocolate cake with blue icing

So I decided to bake just that

As someone with minimal baking skills

Let’s go

Nia vs baking 👩‍🍳

First wash your hands

Then gather up all your ingredients. This is the cake mix I used. Once the eggs, water, oil and cake mix were all I needed for mine. Measure everything out and mix until well combined or for at least two minutes on medium. And drink a cup of water while you’re at it. Your body loves water. Not too much or risk water poisoning. Too much of anything can kill ya.

Then go ahead and grease whatever type of pan you’re using and place it in oven. I used mini pans so it can be a layered cake. It smelt so good while baking and then I nearly almost burned because read the instruction on the box. Make sure you read really carefully and use the time they give how big your pan is

I feel like Peter would like a homemade cake though for his birthday. I think it was just something he had while growing up and not coming from a lot. He appreciates it more than a store brought cake. Mainly because he knows someone close to him took time out of their day to make something special for him. Think he just grew up on it and is favorite tradition for his birthday. Plus he probably loves a good rich, moist chocolate. Just big sweet tooth vibes in general from him. He would love going to Hershey, PA and making his own chocolate bar or even just the M&M store to celebrate. His ideal birthday would probably just be something small and intimate. He cares a lot about out his loved ones and spending time with them.

While baking I cleaned up and jammed out to some Taylor Swift. Does anyone else think that Peter would have a hard time getting plastered btw? I think that purely because of his high metabolism. But if he ever does get there oh be prepared.

Anyways back to baking. Grab some white frosting. I had like half a thing left so I only used five drops of blue food coloring to get what I wanted. I say start off slowly and don’t add in a lot at once because can’t take it away.

Once cakes are done take them out and let them cool. If you greased them properly they should pop right out like how mine did. Number one baker over here.

Once cooled down try and level the cakes (thank you very much YouTube bakers for teaching me this)

I don’t have a cool tool like they do is just used a bread knife and hoped for the best

That hope caused me cutting off a but too much from some and not enough from others so was a little lopsided but it gives personality !!!

Then go ahead and frost. Slap that frosting all over the cake until it’s nice and coated

Another trick I learned was a crumb coat. Frost first, stick it in the fridge for a bit and then frost again. I don’t feel like it made that much of a difference but I am a frosting girly so I wasn’t mad

Next, grab your fav lil Spider-Man plush, give him a party hat and light candles in the cake

Lastly, cut yourself a slice and indulge on your favorite spidey movie

Happy baking ❤️💙🖤

[kozumesphone]

𝐎𝐍𝐂𝐄 𝐔𝐏𝐎𝐍 𝐀 𝐁𝐑𝐎𝐊𝐄𝐍 𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐓 ♡

~ ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

✶⋆.˚ “I believe there are far more possibilities than happily ever after or tragedy. every story has the potential for infinite endings.” ⋆˚

🤍 ༘⋆ spoilers marked !

✶⋆.˚ “i’d give you the world if I could. the moon, the stars, and all the suns in the universe. anything for you, my heart.” ⋆˚

𐙚 songs to listen to while reading this . . . ᝰ.ᐟ

↻ ◁ || ▷ ↺

⟢ the archer — taylor swift

⟢ worship — ari abdul

⟢ lunch — billie eilish

⟢ the prophecy — taylor swift

⟢ rockland — gracie abrams

✶⋆.˚ “have you forgotten the way heartbreak rips apart the soul piece by piece, how it turns you into a masochist making you long for the thing that just eviscerated you until there’s nothing left of you to be destroyed?” ⋆˚

𐙚 mini brain dump . . . ᝰ.ᐟ

♒︎ heavenly. to say I devoured this book would be an understatement.

♒︎ i’ve read a few reviews after finishing the book, and i can’t relate the complaints about the addition of vampires to the plot. they might’ve been unnecessary, but did i love it? yes. because, if there’s magical objects, potions, mysterious arches, and prophecies… why not vampires? i ate that up fr.

♒︎ also, i just like vampires 🫣

SPOILERS‼️

♒︎ apollo’s ‘death’ came as a shock, to me. I WAS LITERALLY SPEECHLESS. but that ending? i could seriously have never expected that. he’s so alive that I just know shit is going to hit the fan and if he wakes up in tbona, he’s going to be bitchy and i’m going to hate him <3

♒︎ and, oh, jacks. i so so so hope there’s much more to what eva thinks he’s done (manipulating her) bc i want him to get a good character arc.

spoilers end <3 ^

✶⋆.˚ “hurt is what made me.” ⋆˚

𐙚 characters & relationships . . . ᝰ.ᐟ

𓂃 ࣪˖ ♱ evangeline fox — evangeline fox might just be the most unrelatable fmc i’ve ever read, but it’s seriously okay. each novel’s mcs have their own traits and flaws, and eva’s is that she’s too optimistic and trusting. i do feel bad for her, tho.

𓂃 ࣪˖ ♱ jacks / the prince of hearts — now look, for someone who’s reading this after reading caraval, I’M IN LOVE ALL OVER AGAIN. my absolute fav kind of fictional characters are the cocky and sarcastic ones with a mysterious backstory, so jacks is perfect <33 everything about him screams ‘love me’ so 😋💓

𓂃 ࣪˖ ♱ evajacks — SPOILERS ‼️ : evajacks’ chemistry was almost non-existent in this book (except when he tried to bite her and turn into a vampire beep boop), but i’m hoping it gets much better in the next (though, i’m finding it hard to predict how that will happen considering what eva knows about jacks what she does 💀) i’m rooting for evajacks anyway because they’re now my caravalverse otp along with scarlian <3 : spoilers end <3 <

𓂃 ࣪˖ ♱ marisol tourmaline — marisol is such a classic high school white girl. see, i get that her mum said all that stuff to her face (which is so not how parenting works) which might have led her to want to be loved and cared for, BUT STILL. MARISOL. COME ON. she’s literally like ‘i want only what she has, because i just do.’ which is so wrong on a lot of levels. get yourself a bf without bewitching them, and i would have had 0 problems with you, marisol.

𓂃 ࣪˖ ♱ apollo acadian — apollo. mon dieu, this man. ik it was a curse, but oh god. my hopeless romantic heart beat for apollo’s dialogues when he was cursed in this book. he was borderline obsessed (but in a non-stalker way, guys) but STILL 😭 (can you tell I have issues? 💀) oh, to be loved like cursed apollo loved eva.

𓂃 ࣪˖ ♱ tiberius acadian — tiberius ah.. well.. bro’s just sort of.. there.

✶⋆.˚ “for anyone who has ever made a bad decision because of a broken heart.” ⋆˚

reviews m.list

kozumesphone © 2024 | don’t repost my works onto other platforms, or edit and post them even on tumblr, without asking me first • don’t steal my works, steal my heart instead • reblogs and comments are more than appreciated !

[littlegodzilla]

Hey, I’m back! 😂 A request, please.

Alexandria, Pre-Negan.

Daryl and singer!reader are really close since the quarry, mutual pining but he’s still holding back. She’s naturally sweet and carefree. But she’s smart, stubborn and strong. Just the way Daryl likes.

Imagine when the group finally settled down, reader sees that Daryl is unease with the fact that reader is playing the “innocent and naive” role with Carol. Seeing her in a mini summer dress that looks innocently sexy, baking cookies, walking around to secretly spy on the Alexandrians, talking to them, and blending in.

One night, reader was just in her room (she lives with Carol) playing a guitar that she was given from one of the Alexandrians as she mentioned it once that she used to write and play songs in gigs before. Feeling thirsty, she makes her way down the kitchen to find Carol with Daryl, he sees her wearing a silk night gown, all domesticated, forgets that Carol is still talking to get him to shower.

“Okay, I’m saying this because I care about you, Hon.” Reader sighs, continues by making a face. “I’m sorry. But you really stink.” Daryl blushes with the nickname, eventually gives in but not without saying a remark about the reader and carol that just made them roll their eyes. Carol leaves the house for some reason, and then reader tells him that she found men’s clothes in her drawer, he follows behind with reader lacing their fingers together. She gets him the clothes and tells him to meet her back in her room. When he’s done, he walks in to find reader singing with a guitar and a notepad. Reader stops and calls him over to her bed, he sits there, and she tells him she wants him to hear the song she wrote for him. The song is called “Breathless” by Better than ezra but Taylor Swift’s version. (Let’s just pretend she wrote it for him, okay. 🥺 the song is perfect for him.)

He gets all shy, and awkward saying “No one’s ever written a song about me before.”

“You’re so good to me.”

“It’s funny that I’m always with you and you haven’t gotten used to it.” Read says.

Reader begs for him to take it easy on himself. “In fact, you can sleep here with me. I mean, the bed’s big enough for two people. It’s not like we haven’t slept next to each other before.”

“Please, Daryl. Sleep.”

“I’m not sleeping unless you are.”

“You’re a pain in my ass, girl.” Goes to the other side of her bed to lay down.

She puts her stuff away and lays there with him.

Daryl’s still worried that she might slip completely into the role and fall weak, so he tells her. But the main reason is that Aiden, and the other Alexandrian men sees her as a fresh new meat.

“I don’t like the way what’s-his-face looks at you. S’like he’s never seen a pretty girl before.” He says making her laugh and look at him ridiculously. You decide how their conversation goes, please.

Ending with reader falling asleep, and Daryl watches. He feels like a creep, so he carefully leaves her bed. Contemplating whether to leave a kiss on her forehead or not… he does. 😏

I hope you like the idea 🥺

I have an idea for part 2, if you’re interested. 👉👈

Hiii sweetie!!

First at all sorry for taking me so long to post it, I really loved the idea and I needed to search the song but I really wanted to write it, It was a beautiful idea and... I took some liberties, I hope you don't mind!!

The second part just depends if you liked the first one🤭

Hope you like it as much I did writing it!

Enjoy!!

*******

Breathless.

Daryl Dixon x Singer!Reader.

One shot.

Requested by: @ravendixon

Warnings: Fluff and little sad too.

Words: 4300

Taglist: @phoenixblack89 @browneyes528 @lilythemadqueen @darylsgarden @thefemininemystiquee @green-eyedladywrites @hail-yourselves @ruinedbythehobbit @xxtinasxxblog @ravenwings73 @spenciepoo338 @b-tchymoon @minervadashwood @darylssluttt @let-love-bleeds-red @ravendixon @livingdeadblondequeen

***************

Alexandria seems a safe place. When Aaron takes you all there, the doors open and you can see the streets of the community, everything is in perfect condition, the people who already live there go from one place to another, focusing on their own tasks, but it is true that the newcomers attract attention and come closer to see them and say hello. Rick's group is still alert, you have been through too much, Terminus is still very much on your mind, you are still mourning your losses, both for the Prison and for your companions left behind. Deanna welcomes you all, one by one you pass by her office to tell them about your experiences outside those walls.

You feel short of breath as you are shown where you will be living, two beautiful two-flood houses for your group. You unconsciously hold onto Daryl's arm, pressing your fingers against his skin. He looks at you with a slight frown.

"Yer 'kay?"

"Y-yeah, I just... I never thought I'd live in a house again." You confess feeling a little embarrassed and Daryl smiles putting his arm around your shoulders.

**

A couple of weeks have passed and the group seems to be adjusting well to the community. Some are still leery that things are so easy in there, your people are not prepared for an attack, to defend themselves from death, Rick wants to talk some sense into Deanna and Maggie is his best card for that. Carl has made friends, some already have jobs helping to build and protect the community.

And then there's you.

Daryl remembers the first day you left your new house along with Carol. He was sitting on the porch fixing his crossbow, he hadn't even entered the house yet, it was like a barrier he couldn't cross. His best friend came out dressed as if she were a simple housewife, Carol could be many things, but certainly not what she pretended to pretend to be; an innocent, scared, helpless woman. He opened his mouth ready to mock her when you came out of the house too and his words got stuck in his throat as his brain shut down.

Ever since you met at the quarry there has always been a little tug of war between you, your friendship has grown stronger over time, Shane taught you to shoot at the Greene's farm, but he taught tracking, hunting, you both liked to go out into the woods and look for small animals to take back to camp, nothing too big as you didn't feel safe using the hunter's crossbow, it was like an extension of himself and you feared you might break it. Since you felt, albeit momentarily, that you were safe in the CDC something started to change between you, a little more intimate, more intense atmosphere was created around you, everyone noticed, Daryl noticed, but he always took a step back. He liked you the way you were, loving and kind, but also determined, strong, stubborn sometimes too, but that made the game you had more interesting. Still he never dared to say anything out loud, he knew you deserved better than him, even though he knew perfectly well your feelings for him.

That's why when he saw you show up like this; stripped of your military pants, your black high boots, all the layers of t-shirts you always wore on top to avoid bites, your gun holster on your leg, your belt with your knives and the rifle on your back to change it for a sky blue dress, tied at the neck, long to mid-thigh, your bare feet only protected by sandals that buckled at your ankles, plus you had left your hair loose, falling unruly and wild, still a little wet. Daryl was convinced that he had never seen you expose so much skin before and that made, even though his brain was off, all the blood rush to his crotch, making him feel terribly uncomfortable with himself.

He had never felt only sexual desire towards you, in fact he had always looked at you with respect, as a friend, as a companion, he did have feelings for you, but it was not only a physical attraction, nevertheless when he saw you dressed like this he had a terrible urge to run his fingers up and down your legs, wondering if your skin would be as soft as it looked, if it would be warm and delicate under his big rough hands, calloused from intense work.

"Y-ya look ridiculous..." Was the only coherent thing he was able to say when you were already walking away from the house.

Since that day you and Carol have taken on the role of the simple, kind women of the group, wanting to fit in, too scared of the outside world to go back. It was all a facade, you were trying to figure out what exactly this place was, why everything seemed so wonderful, something must be hiding and you had to protect your people. Still the role of housewife you were good at, baking cookies with Carol, learning to cook old woman's recipes, gossiping with other women of ages close to yours. Being one more.

**

That night Daryl arrives tired, he has been out all day, since Eric got injured Aaron has asked him to be his partner to explore and recruit people, he has even shown him a motorcycle to pieces that, if he manages to restore it, will be his, Daryl feels good with this, it allows him to get out of those walls that stifle him and having his hands and mind busy on the bike makes him think less about the flight of your dress every time he sees you strolling the streets of Alexandria.

Today has been a particularly intense day, Aaron wanted to capture a horse to take with them, but finally the Walkers have arrived before them, it was a pity, it could have been useful to them, but now the world is more of a bastard than it was before.

He sighs taking the crossbow off his back as he enters the kitchen, Carol is there preparing something to eat to continue to fascinate the rest of the inhabitants, Daryl no longer makes an effort to bother her with his jokes, the woman ignores him completely. He sets the crossbow down on the counter and receives a sharp glare from her companion.

"Sorry." He mutters taking it from the table.

She just smiles and goes on with what she is doing, her friend just sits on a free stool, watching her silently. Suddenly his head rises as he hears a soft melody coming from upstairs, your voice accompanies it seconds later.

It's fascinating, he's always found it so, that ability you have to relax his whole body with your voice, he discovered you could sing at the Greene farm, when you and Beth would spend some time with her guitar, the two of you on the porch singing, trying to relieve the uneasiness of the whole situation around you. At first Daryl felt irritated, there were important things to take care of, sitting there around the fire singing as if it were a religious camp was getting on his nerves, but at the same time soon after he found himself looking for those little moments that mitigated his own nerves and his anxiety about not finding Sophia.

After the prison fell he had not heard you sing again, it is true that you had spent all that time apart.

But now...

He can't help but close his eyes and let the muffled melody from the distance rock him lightly on his stool, feeling the tiredness grow heavier in his body, wanting to fall asleep right there.

"Why don't you finally take a decent shower, go up there and get your affairs in order?" Carol's voice snaps him out of his trance as if a bucket of water has been thrown over him. He stirs uncomfortably and denies.

"There's nothin' to put in order."

"Daryl..."

"Carol. No." He cuts her off abruptly, Daryl has long since stopped being the wild dog that accompanied his brother Merle, with a shitty temper and getting defensive at every second, but sometimes he needs to stop her.

The melody has stopped, Daryl isn't aware of it until he hears your footsteps approaching all the way to the kitchen. Again his brain shuts down when he sees you walk in wearing a soft silk nightgown, bare feet, and hair made into a bun with the help of a pen. You greet them with a nod, not really caring that Daryl sees you like this, and grab some water from the tap.

"...And take a shower." Daryl hears as an echo of his friend's voice, but his eyes are totally riveted on you. You nod your head after drinking your glass of water.

"Carol's right, we're telling you because we care about you, Hon." You tell her sighing. "I'm sorry, but you stink..." You pout a little in apology, but Daryl just feels a ringing in his ears.

He is not even capable of being offended by your words. Honey. You've called him honey and even though he knows it's just a small token of affection, it gets his heart racing and his cheeks warm. It sounds good, he likes the way the word comes out of your mouth, it gives him goosebumps, he knows he's never had that feeling, not like this. He stays in the background, or at least he feels that way, you continue talking to Carol as the woman takes what looks like a lasagna out of the oven and places it carefully on the counter, it smells good, looks appetizing, but even that doesn't bring him out of his state, totally transfixed watching you rub your bare arms and your feet twitch nervously.

"Take care, Carol, see you tomorrow." You wave goodbye to the woman who leaves the kitchen and at the same time the house. The pomp where Daryl's mind was submerged then breaks.

"Where's she goin'?" he asks confused, but you shake your head.

"She has a date." You joke, waggling your eyebrows mischievously, and Daryl frowns. "You know? I found some men's clothes in my room, a young couple probably slept there, why don't we take a look and try something on?"

Daryl is going to protest. No, he's not going to change clothes, he's not going to try on anyone's clothes. It's fine the way it is, thank you. But you take his hand, pull him close and head upstairs. Your fingers intertwine and Daryl forgets what he meant again, his gaze locked on your hands, the warm touch running down his body, letting you guide him without resistance.

You enter your room, Daryl stands in the doorway contemplating the place curiously, it's decorated, but it's obvious you've made some changes with your own taste, on the bed there's a guitar and several sheets of paper scattered here and there.

"A guitar?"

"Yes, Carl's friends gave it to me." You explain, opening your closet and taking out a brown box from there that you leave on the table. "They have like a secret base that they go around keeping things that are found in uninhabited houses, Carl told them that I sang and wrote songs before all this and they gave it to me." You explain feeling your cheeks redden a little.

"That's great." He admits moving a little closer to you. "It's been a long time since I've heard ya sing." He gets sincere, your eyes connect and you stay like that for a few seconds until you finally look down, sheepishly, and pull a t-shirt and pants out of the box.

"Why don't you try these on? I don't know exactly your size, but I think it might fit you." You urge him and Daryl takes it, though he's still not quite sure about this. "When you're ready, come and show me how it fits." You ask him with a wink.

********

So now he's there, looking at himself in the bathroom mirror, his hair wet after the shower he has taken. He's not sure if it's been ten or twenty minutes since he got in there, but he really wanted to wash himself thoroughly before putting on the clothes you've given him. His eyes roam over his own body, beard several days old, skin toasted by the sun, marked by dozens of wounds, scars, bruises from expeditions, alone or with Aaron, not to mention the memories branded on his back. No, he's certainly not the man you deserve.

He grunts at his own reflection before putting on the t-shirt and pants you have found, he feels overwhelmed suddenly, the t-shirt is too tight around his arms and neck, the man wearing those clothes was thinner than him or at least his body was different, in the pants he fits well, he has to admit he has to reposition himself inside the fabric reminding himself that for things like this he prefers wider clothes. He leaves the bathroom returning to your room, again there is music coming from there, he shyly peeks out the door not wanting to interrupt you. From his position he watches silently as you mumble a melody, you stop your fingers along the guitar to pick up your pen and write something on your sheets, you play again, stop, cross out what you have written and put something else and try again. Daryl smiles to see you so focused, he enters the room and you stop to look at him. His cheeks redden again as your eyes run over him from head to toe and you smile in amusement.

"You don't look bad at all..."

"'M gonna explode." He confesses waving his arms trying to get comfortable under the fabric. You laugh and gesture for him to come over to the bed and crawl across the mattress to grab a pair of scissors. Daryl walks over to you, sits down next to you and lets you cut the sleeves off his shirt, like all his old t-shirts, you also make a couple of cuts on his neck and Daryl feels like he can breathe normal again. "Thanks..."

"My pleasure, honey, for anything you need." You offer and leave the scissors on the bedside table.

"What yer doin'?" he asks you trying to concentrate again on your papers and not all your exposed skin.

"It's... I'm glad you asked." You smile broadly confusing him a little. "I'm writing a song about you and I'd like you to hear it." You propose, Daryl's heart pounding in his chest, feeling his hands suddenly tremble.

"No one's ever written a song about me before..." He whispers shyly and you can't help but smile. "I'd love to hear it."

Even though you smile excitedly you can't help but let your nerves get to you a little. It's a song you've been working on since the guitar fell into your hands a few days ago. You've put a lot of your feelings about him into it and even though you know Daryl would never do anything to hurt you, you're scared to see his reaction. You settle down on the mattress, cross your legs and place the guitar in your lap. Daryl swallows hard as in your movement the skirt of your nightgown has lifted a little and he could see a flash of pink under it, giving him a small heart attack. Now the guitar acts as a barrier between his eyes and your... and he appreciates it.

Immediately the melody begins to flood the room, the soft chords once again engulfing Daryl in a state of relaxation that he still can't explain.

Here you are now

Fresh from your wars

Back from the edge of time

And all that you were

Stripped to the bone

I thought you'd want to know

Again your voice and the chords rock his body, they bring calm and relaxation to his mind, he missed seeing you and hearing you sing, now he is aware of it, he feels a little prick in his chest because Beth is not by your side to accompany your song, your voice guides him to those quiet days in the Prison when he thought you had found the perfect shelter, that nothing bad was going to happen to you again.

When you feel the world is

Crashing all around your

Feet come running headlong

Into my arms

Breathless.

I'll never judge you

I can only love you

Come now, running headlong into my arms

Breathless.

Can he kiss you? would it be okay if he did when you finished singing? Because Daryl feels an urgent need to do so, he wants to lean into you, cradle your face in his hands and kiss you on the lips, softly, slowly, enjoying the sensation, guessing how they feel, whether they will be soft, warm, the taste of your skin against his, of your tongue tangling with his.

He would really love to find out.

However he comes back to reality when you stop singing, your gaze on him, waiting for him to say something, but as the song says, he is breathless. He feels on cloud nine, unable to believe that all that came out inspired by him, all those things fearlessly expressed towards him. He'd love to accept it, he'd love to smile like you're doing right now and let go.

But no.

"Dunno how I could have inspired ya to write that..." He mutters with a shrug. "I'm nothin'..."

"You're everything to me, Daryl." Your smile saddens a little, but doesn't falter. "It's funny, I'm always with you, but you still haven't noticed..."

Of course he has noticed, but for both your sakes it's better to keep pretending you haven't. He shakes his head, starting to feel awkward in his own skin, you're waiting for him to say something, something he's not able to put into words, so you decide it's time to leave. He clears his throat and rubs his hands against his pants.

"I should go, I gotta stand guard..."

"What? No." You stop him by grabbing his arm. "You can't go, you need to rest."

"I'm fine."

"Of course not." You snap annoyed. "You need to sleep, please..." You look at him pleadingly. "Actually, you can sleep here with me, the bed is big enough for both of us..." You invite him with a shrug. "It wouldn't be the first time we slept together either..."

No, it wouldn't be the first time. When you had to run away from the Greene farm, you wandered from place to place in search of shelter, the cold and hard months were bearing down on you, many nights you slept out in the open, only covered with your sleeping bags or blankets, Daryl watched you shiver several nights until one day he lay down with you and hugged you covering your bodies with his poncho. You tensed next to him not knowing what to say, but he just settled back and moved his arm away from your body.

"Sleep, ya gonna be exhausted tomorrow." He growled against your hair.

Several nights it was repeated that Daryl slept with you, even, after several days, his arm came back to your waist, another under your head, being totally glued against each other.

"Ya need to rest." He says shaking his head, pushing those memories from his mind.

"So do you, and I'm not going to sleep until you do..." You say resolutely, crossing your arms, glaring defiantly at him. Daryl snorts in amusement.

"You're a pain in my ass, girl." He huffs, but walks back over to you, making you smile excitedly. "Step aside."

Still grinning you crawl back across the mattress, drop your guitar and papers on the floor, undo the sheets by crawling underneath, Daryl takes off his boots and lies down next to you, but on top of the sheets, straight as a stick, face up, hands resting on his own belly.

"Daryl..."

"Go to sleep." He almost commands you, his eyes fixed on the ceiling. You sigh and settle back, resting your forehead against his shoulder.

You try to sleep despite how tense Daryl is next to you, you have to admit you're tired, it's been a long day, you're easily overcome by sleep, but you don't want to sleep yet, you want to feel his body relax and agree to sleep with you, leaving that state of continuous alertness. Daryl next to you, chews his lip restlessly, feeling even a slight taste of blood in his mouth, your body glued to his arm, even though you are covered with the sheets, manages to make him nervous, his mind starts to wander, he knows he is not the only man there, that within the walls of Alexandria there are people your age, men closer to having things in common with you, he has seen them look at you.

He grunts and stirs in his seat at the thought.

"What's wrong?" You say in a sleepy voice.

"N-nothin'... just thinkin'..." He whispers and you settle back in your seat.

"About what?"

"I think ya and Carol are adjustin' easily to this place...yer fittin' in with its people..." She confesses, her fingers moving nervously over her belly. "I've noticed that Deanna's son...Aiden...is with ya a lot..." That last he says in a whisper, feeling ashamed of how she feels.

"What?" you ask now more awake, propping yourself up on your elbow.

"I don't like the way he looks at ya..." He keeps talking and chews harder on his lip. "That asshole is like he's never seen a pretty girl before." He hisses like a cat, you widen your eyes in surprise, you can't stop yourself in time, a chuckle escapes between your lips, Daryl turns his head to look at you, he chews his lip again before frowning.

"What?"

"Nothing, it's just... I've never heard you use that word before." You joke.

"Which one, asshole?" your laughter vibrates the bed as you know Daryl is asking sincerely.

"Pretty." You say staring at him watching his expression go blank as he becomes aware of it. "You've never told me you think I'm pretty before..."

Okay, ya just got ywrself into this, now get out, Romeo. Daryl hears in his own head and feels his body squirm on the bed, he could get up and run away, say something stupid and even ignore you, turn away and pretend he's sleeping, but your gaze shines brightly and even your cheeks have a hint of pink in them. It's true that you look pretty to him, you always have, even covered in Walker blood or stained with mud from long walks through the woods in search of shelter. He has never ceased to think of you as....

"Beautiful." He says aloud and the two of you are shrouded in a tense silence, Daryl knows he can't back out now, so he clears his throat and shrugs. "I've always thought ya were beautiful." He confesses at last, and again time seems to freeze right there, even Daryl has the sensation of holding his breath.

You're so close, yet so far away, it would be so easy to ignore all the alarms ringing in his head and lean in and kiss you, like he was thinking when you were singing for him. For him. His heart beats violently in his chest and he's sure you can hear it too, you haven't moved an inch from your position, your eyes fixed on him, your cheeks now a deep red color, but there's an amused, nervous smile plastered on your face. Out of the corner of his eye Daryl spots the movement of your fingers playing with the sheets, you're planning something in your mind, he knows you well, he knows he has to stop you, so his gesture hardens a little and he grunts.

"But I've never told ya because yer a stuck up child." He snaps. "And now go to sleep at once or tomorrow there'll be no one to put up with ya." That said, he half rolls over on the mattress with his back to you, still hearing his heart beat a mile a minute.

He can't see the smile forming on your mouth, but he can imagine it, even though he's on top of the sheets you snuggle against his back, resting a hand on the center of it and your forehead as well, you feel his body relax a little, but not too much, your smile doesn't wipe off your mouth when you start mumbling.

Lay down your guns

Too weak to run

Nothing can harm you here

Your precious heart

Broken and scarred

Somehow you made it through

I only ask that you won't go again

In whispers you hum his song until your words turn into a soft snort because you've fallen asleep. Daryl doesn't move until he's absolutely sure you're asleep, carefully turning over on the sheets to watch you. The peace that overflows from you at that moment sticks in his chest like a stake, despite being asleep, your smile hasn't disappeared from your mouth, you are calm, at peace, nothing seems to disturb you, it seems so simple. Daryl would love to do the same, to lie next to you, to cuddle up to your body and hide his nose in your neck, to fall asleep cradled by your voice and that soft smell of almonds that your skin gives off.

But he can't, the world will never be safe again and he needs to protect you and the best way is to keep you away from him.

Uncomfortably he gets out of bed to let you sleep. He watches you silently after putting his boots back on and leans over you, leaving a small kiss on your forehead. You stir at his touch, but don't wake up. He smiles observing how calm you are and walks to the bedroom door, he stands there for a moment in his mind your song still plays.

"I need to go, babygirl, or I'll do something I'll regret later." He whispers. "Maybe the Monroe brothers aren't so bad after all." He feels a strong heartburn eat away at his insides and he growls walking out of your room.

***

The End.

********

I hope you liked it!!

See you in the next stories.

[thefandom-casserole]

Episode 49 Notes-

Heheheh I had a snow day so I got to listen early!!!!!!!!!!!

THE INTRO SONG OMG

We are winning with the dndads music lately hehehe

“Like there’s a Druid in my mind saying it’s gonna be oak” SOBBING

Oak this is a bop actually

Holy shit there were so many things bad that happened to normal lately 😭 

They’re in the past!!!!!! Oh my goddddddd

Taylor’s Teen Fact: Taylor was the runner up of the Teen High Teen of the Year award (which Margarita Pizza won). Taylor is a very good cup stacker (third place in a competition)

We forget that Taylor is canonically the most popular kid 

Freddie’s facts are always the craziest of all time. I love it

Linc’s Teen Fact: Linc had to do things other than soccer playing so Marco and Grant got him into artsy stuff. Of course he only would pain/sculpt soccer type things. So he decided to start selling them on Next Door (with an account called Foot King). Marco and Grant took him off of the app. He’s a good painter basically

Normal’s Teen Fact: Normal always keeps his hot glue gun on him

Scary’s Teen Fact: Scary doesn’t have a New Years Resolution because she decided it was too resolute (too firm, too definite). She wants to be able to choose whether or not to do something 

Daddy Fact: Anthony’s goal is to write a porn thing and he was reached out to by a porn website to write for them. He was gifted a care package (picture as you will)

He’s already written the script 😭 

OH SHIT TAYLOR AND SCARY AREN’T WITH THEM

Ooohh AU where they ARE the four horseman of the apocalypse 

THE DOLPHIN CULT YAYYYYYYYYYYAGAJAHHSJDND

Sitcom staring the Porpy and Flippy: Cop sidekicks

NO DOOD HAS DOODLERIZED EVERYONEEEEEE

Well Willy did but whatever

Screw Willy

Grill Master the Dolphin!!!!!!! Ayyyyyy

Dang Willy is God

They’re in a five person (well four person now) marriage don’t judge the dolphins!!!!

Awww they’re only like. Fifteen. 

Heh Glenn Close/Jodie Foster (a good guy) in charge of Hell, Willy Stampler (a bad guy) in charge of Heaven

Yoooo wait the FBI is apart of the Hell now 

Lark still hates Henry omg

Sparrow!!! Omg 

Normal and Scary are so similar omg omg omg

Damn Good Omens much

What is it with Willy getting at the Oaks?

OH IS IT BECAUSE THEY HAVE PART OF DOOD IN THEM!?!?!?

“Brother” AYYY THEYRE BACK

The codependents of all time

HENRY NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

This dumb spell my goodness I love their debate

Why are they so set on killing Henry 😭 

Oh only 49 damage that’s not that bad 

TAYLOR BREAKS LARKS ANCLE OMG

Scary noooooooo

SPIDER BOIZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

Scary’s gonna die 😭 😭 😭 😭 

Taylors such an ass omg

Scary got 44 damage 

“I say no once in six years of podcasting” 

TEHYRE ON FUREEEEEBSJAJAHIWIW

SCARY AND HENRY A DUO I DIDNT KNOW I NEEDED

Lark and Sparrow make me so unwell omg

NO LARK LETS GO OF SPARROW NOOOO

Begging for Lark to have a whole thing about Sparrow with Normal

No one catches Lark 😭 

Taylor is so funny omg

TAYLOR WITH SPARROW OMG

They seriously are having season one vibes I missed this so much omg

Nooo that was such a good transition 

Taylor having his own mini adventure is because they played a Taylor Swift song for their intro

CASSANDRA OH NO

TAYLOR JS GOING TO KILL WILLY IF HE DOES ANYTHING ELSE TO HIS MOM

This whole Taylor thing is giving off BIG Leviathan Fabian vibes with Chungle Down Bim

YOOO THE MARRIAGE THING OMG STRIKES AGAIN

Please say this works 

Roll high

Ohh a 12

LINC JUST PRAYED TO WILLY

Voicemail box 😭 

Of course Taylor is going to find his name 

OMG WAIT FREDDIE’S PLAN WAS LITERALLY OREDICTED BY SOMEONE ON TUMBLR I SWEAR

I DUNNO WHO

BUT MAY APPOLO’S VISION BE UPON YOU OR WHATEVER

Nooooo and it’d be easier for Taylor too because HIS MOM MARRIED WILLY OMG OMG

HIS LAST NAME TECHNICALLY COULD BE STAMPLER MUCH EASIER NOW BECAUSE OF THAT

SCARYA ND HENRY YAYAYAYYAYAYAYAYAYSGHAHWHSHSHSHSVSAHWJHAHSB

Henry stopppppppp you’re messing with Scary :cccccccc

Nooo scary still has the hat omg oh dear

Oh dear Willy’s God now he could probably control someone’s mind through their sleepppp

Oh god I hate Barry so much. He sucked so much I hate him

AHHAHAHAAHAHHAHAHSHHAHSHHSHSH SCARY BEING A SOCCER OEROSN OMG OSBAKAJSH

Taylor squints so hard that someone dies 😭 

AYYY THATS CANON

I wonder if he’s gonna get the original daddies as well as the Kiddads 

Scary’s pulling what Riz did with Biz ayyyy

Aww that would’ve been sick if he believed her

NO NO DONT TELL HER SHE WAS LIKE YOU FUCK YOU WILLY

FUCKING GET HIM SCARY GET HIS ASS GET EM

Scary just wants attention :ccccc

“Good luck” ANTHONY THAT HAD NO BUSINESS BEING SO OMINOUS OMG

Noooo remembering the thing with the cheese :ccc

I miss early season two

NO THATS WHERE EVERYRHING WITH HERMIE HAPPENED AYLGHHHHHHSVSHHSHS

“YOU BITCH” omg normal 😭 

“Give me an L” “You’ve had enough Ls” “I’ll give you one of mine”

No the way it fits the intro

AHHH NORMAL USING HIS CHEER TO CHEER UP LINC

This episode is making me giddy omg /pos

Linc is getting so sad this is worryinggggg. He’s acting like Grantttttt

This whole eye thing is seriously the math questions on my tests 

A happy normal is something I’ve missed so so much

I think literally all of these kids (except maybe Taylor) have a guilt complex (Scary/Willy, Normal/Code Purple, Linc/im not quite sure)

DARRYL AUYYYYYAYAYAYYAYAHAHABBSHSJSJS

JODIE AND GLENN YAYAYAYAYAYAYAYABSJAHWH

Omg Jodie and Glenn together 😭 

WIAT WAIT OKG WAIT

THE THING THAT MAKES THEM BELIEVE JN SHIT

THE WHOLE THING WITH THE CLOSE FAMILY DID THAT FOR TAYLOR

AND HE GOT THE PERSUASION THING

DOES THAT MEAN THATLL HAPPEN FOR THE OTHER TEENS WHEN THEYRE THING IS COMPLETED

ITS LIKE WHEN IN FH THEY GIT TO REROLL A STAT AFTER SOOHMORE YEAR

Scary looks like Larry!!

Omg Freddie is genuinely so smart omg

HAMILTON AYYYYYYYY

Yam ya

I’m gonna use that

He had a flying spell wowwww

REVERSE GRAVITY AUAGAHHAJAHAHHAHAHJW

OhhhhhhhhhhhhHHHHH

Will and me both man

Larry is so cool omg

Dood nooooooo 

RONNNNAHGAHAHAHAHHSHS

FUCK YOU WILLY

FUCK YOU FUCK YOU FUCK YOUHAGSJSHHAHAAHAHS

Mfer admits that Ron posed a threatttttt

Honey badger waits for no one 

I’m gonna start using that too

GO BETH OMG 

Willy likes the science kid oh my god I’m gonna sob

Larry gives off church camp vibes

Willy’s doing the spaghetti thing 😭 

OMG OMG

WILLY TAYLOR IS GOING TO KILL YOU IF YOI HURY CASSANDRA PIOE THAT HOLY SHIT

“You’d be a lot prettier if you smiled Cassandra” GET HIS ASS TAYLOR GET. HIS. ASS.

You know I hated Willy before 

But this is a whole new fucking level 

Awww that’s so sweet at the end <33

AHHAHAHAHHAHA THIS EPISODE MAN

I don’t know how I’m gonna be able to wait for the next episode ahhh

IVE LISTENED TO THE ALBUM BUT OMG IM SO EXCITED TO HEAR THE ONE THEYRE RELEASING TO ADVERTISE IT

I’m betting it’s either the Potatoe one or Dead and Gone

Hmmmmm

January 30th!!

Oh screw off siri

AHAHHAHAHAHAHAHAIT IS DEAD AND GONE

YAYAYAYAYYAYAYAAYAYAYYAYAYYA

THIS EPISODE IS MT ABSOKUTE FAVORUTE THIS SEASON