#still working on skosc dontcha worry!

[johnnycranes]

More Than Meets The Eye

Summary: Mingling with New York’s wealthiest in one of the biggest annual events of the city, going as Norman Osborn’s wife, yep, what could possibly happen?

Norman Osborn x Original Female Character

Word Count: 7.2k

Rating: E

Warnings: Explicit Sexual Content, Female Oral Sex, Unprotected Sex

Read on AO3

i still can't believe i really went through with this fsahklfa I've been in a Willem Dafoe mood and been working on a long fic for him as Norman Osborn and an OC for a while now. Thank you so much to @scungilliwoman for enabling me and encouraging me in writing this and this ship!!! I appreciate you so much, thank you for listening to me go on about them 😭🥺💞

Kennedy would never admit it, but she loved the chance to dress up all fancy and try five-course meals. She only ever tried two-course meals. A.K.A appetizers followed by steak at buffets.

That counted as two-course, right?

“You went over the list I sent you?” Norman asked, fidgeting in the car seat beside her.

Making sure her inky black hair was secure in its high ponytail, she rolled her eyes before smiling reassuringly at him.

She raised one finger. “The Kents are old money, picking between Oscorp and Stark Industries to invest in.” She raised another finger. “The Greenes recently gave fund handling to their eldest son, who is looking for the next big viral sensation.”

Kennedy dropped her hand, smiling smugly this time. “And those are just the top two families we need to charm. So yes, I went over the list.”

“And?” Norman asked, looking all but impressed.

She worked hard to memorize all the names, too.

Kennedy frowned. “And what?”

It was Norman’s turn to roll his eyes. “The media, Kenny. Jamison and his wife will be there too. He’s a tricky one and I need you to be careful. One wrong word and my face’ll be plastered all over the newsstands tomorrow.”

She didn’t forget the Daily Bugle owner, no. Just that he did rather scare her and she hoped she wouldn’t have to say anything more to him than “Hi, hello, how’s the food?”

She was aware of how far that man could go to get the next big headline, and was afraid to give him even the smallest hint that her being married to the most powerful man in New York was an act.

“I’m sure Ms. Concepcion will be fine, sir.” Charles, Norman’s driver, called out from in front of the Rolls-Royce.

Kennedy smiled,leaning and hoping Charles could see her from the rear view mirror. “Thank you, Charles!”

She saw the driver wink at her from the rearview mirror. Kennedy then looked at Norman smugly.

The Oscorp founder simply sighed. “Well, it’s gonna be a helluva party either way.”

When Norman finally calmed his nerves, he spoke up hesitantly. “How’s Dia?” he asked so softly that Kennedy would’ve missed it if the radio was any louder.

She smiled. “She’s fine. My mother and sister are watching her tonight.” Then she laughed, thinking of how her little girl pouted before Kennedy went downstairs to meet Norman by the car.

“She wanted to go, you know.” Kennedy said, remembering Dia dancing around the living room. “Said she wanted to dress up like a princess too.”

Norman chuckled and Kennedy felt her face warm up. He always did have such an attractive gravelly voice, for a smug know-it-all.

“What did you end up telling her?” he asked, less tense and fidgety now.

Kennedy shrugged as she sank down into the leather seat. “Oh you know, that it’s gonna be a boring adult party with boring music and lots of boring talk about science.”

“Science isn’t boring.”

She almost laughed at how whiny he actually sounded. But he just got out of a bad mood so she refrained from doing so. “That’s what Dia said too. Harry’s been a good influence on her, he might not be as great as you in science but he’s been helping Dia a lot.”

“I would’ve asked him to babysit her but-”

Kennedy waved her hands. “What no, it’s fine! It’s Friday night, Norman. Sacred for high schoolers. Let Harry hang out with his friends.”

“You mean playing video games and eating junk food with his friend Peter?”

“Exactly, sacred.”

Norman opened his mouth to say something but they noticed the car came to a stop, and Kennedy saw the entrance to the hotel through the window.

She felt Norman hold her hand, squeezing reassuringly. “You ready, my sweet wife?”

Kennedy winked at him. “Lead the way, dear husband.”

He surprised her when he then took her hand and kissed it, she caught the gleam from her ‘wedding ring’ and ‘engagement ring’.

“You got this.” He whispered, before the door on her side swung open, the hotel staff greeting her.

She released a shaky breath before stepping out for another night as Mrs. Osborn.

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

It still amazed her whenever she entered the world of New York’s extremely wealthy.

It partly made her feel sick knowing what was just outside their little bubble while they ate and drank without care, and the other part of her couldn’t help but enjoy the lavish lifestyle herself.

She had her arm hooked onto Norman’s as they walked around the huge ballroom, mingling and schmoozing with the guests. Most of them were old men and women, clearly enjoying retirement life and looking to spend their riches, while the others were around Norman’s age, CEOs and Presidents of their own companies too, she was sure.

The more people Norman introduced her to, the more confident she started to feel. It wasn’t the first fancy rich people party Norman brought her to, it just so happened to be, in his words, one of the biggest and most important events of the year, please don’t ruin this for me.

Please, like she was the only one who had to keep the act up.

“Ah Norman, finally someone worth holding a conversation with in this dull party.” a voice called out.

“Wilson, be nice.” another said.

Kennedy paused as she and Norman came across another couple in front of them.

Wilson? Bald? That couldn’t be-

“Wilson and Vanessa Fisk, I wasn’t sure you two were going to grace us with your presence tonight.” Norman said, confirming Kennedy’s suspicions.

She let go of Norman so he could shake hands with his fellow corporate mogul.

Wilson smiled, which looked a bit shark-like to Kennedy. “We found time.” he said. “And, I’ve been as curious as the whole of Manhattan about your sudden… elopement. Who is this gorgeous woman you probably don’t deserve, eh?”

Norman put his arm around Kennedy’s waist, holding her close. “Wilson, Vanessa, this is my wife Kennedy. Kennedy, Wilson and Vanessa Fisk.”

Kennedy made sure to smile brightly, extending her hand to greet the Fisks. “It’s my honor to meet one of New York’s most powerful couples.”

Luckily the Fisks took her offered hand, instead of staring her down like she thought would happen. She’d been watching too many dramas on television again, it seemed like.

Vanessa raised an eyebrow before sipping on her champagne. “Kennedy? That’s an odd name, dear.” There didn’t seem to be malice in her comment, just… curiosity, which Kennedy was thankful for.

“My parents.” Kennedy explained. “My mother wanted Kendra, my father wanted Andy. And ta-da, compromise.”

“Well, it makes for an interesting conversation starter after introducing yourself.” Wilson noted.

And in the back of her mind, Kennedy was freaking out knowing that she was holding a casual discussion about her name of all things, with New York’s second wealthiest - Yes, Norman made it clear that he was the first - man and his wife.

“What is it that you do, Kennedy?” Vanessa asked.

And there it was.

It wasn’t that Kennedy was ashamed of her work, no, quite the opposite. She loved it, she was proud of it. But it might not be what people like oil tycoons, tech giants and big property owners would expect to hear from the ‘wife’ of Norman Osborn.

From the start of their little arrangement, Kennedy made it clear that she’d be ok pretending to be his wife and Dia even thought it fun to play his stepdaughter, but everything else about her, she wouldn’t lie about it.

She felt Norman hold her a bit tighter, not to hurt her, but more to reassure her, like he was encouraging her to speak her mind.

And so, in front of the Fisks, she did.

“I’m a teacher at a daycare.” Kennedy said, smiling proudly.

And in her peripheral vision, she saw Norman smile as well.

To the credit of the Fisks, only Wilson seemed to blink a few times like someone just told him people actually took other modes of transportation aside from private jets and sports cars.

Vanessa on the other hand grinned, even seemed in awe.

“Oh I love children! It must be a treat to be with the little ones almost every day!” she gushed.

Kennedy let out a breath she didn’t know she was holding. “It is. They’re all so bright and talented. And of course I know you’re an Art Curator, Ms. Fisk?”

Vanessa waved her hand. “Oh please, dear, call me Vanessa. The only ones who call me Ms. Fisk are the bodyguards my husband insists I bring along.”

Wilson’s ‘it’s for your own protection!’ got drowned out by Vanessa continuing, “And yes, I am. Not as glamorous as it seems. A lot of times I see men trying to impress their dates into thinking they know what they’re talking about. And speaking of,”

The brunette turned to her husband. “That’s also how I met Wilson here. He was in my gallery almost every week.”

And Kennedy didn’t even think it was possible for the Wilson Fisk to look so… warm? Vulnerable? as he looked at his wife.

“Almost every day. But hey, I finally got the guts to ask you out on a date, didn't I?”

“And here we are now.” Vanessa said.

Kennedy could see the love between the two, and was happy for them. She glanced at Norman, her own heart sinking.

She couldn’t pinpoint the exact moment she started to fall for Norman, when she no longer needed to pretend to want to hold him close, to kiss him, to laugh at his jokes.

She blushed remembering how flustered she was earlier that night, putting on her low-cut red gown and wondering if Norman would appreciate it.

She genuinely liked him and she wanted to be with him, for real, not for show.

She just wasn’t sure if the man felt the same.

Suddenly Vanessa shook her head, like she snapped out of whatever trance she was in with her husband.

She smiled at Kennedy. “And how did you two meet?”

Kennedy’s smile dropped.

Oh shit, they never actually established how. Surprisingly, no one ever asked yet, all too caught up with the fact that Norman was married, and not with how he met her. Either that or the two never stuck around long enough to answer the latter question.

“Oh I can assure you it’s nothing compared to the start of your love story.” Norman said smoothly.

Vanessa scoffed. “Love stories are not to be compared, Norman. Each one is special.”

Ok, Kennedy loved this woman more and more.

But as much as she agreed with Vanessa’s sentiment, she didn’t have said love story prepared.

Norman chuckled beside her. She wasn’t sure if he was nervous, stressed, or both. “Well, would you like to tell the story, dear or should I?” he asked, looking at her.

Kennedy opened her mouth and stumbled on her words. “I, uhm, you always tell it better.” is all she managed to say.

And Norman’s eyes widened for just a bit before he went back to smiling at the Fisks. Good, if they were going to get into trouble for their lie coming out, at least it’d be Norman’s fault and not hers.

“Well,” Norman started. “We met at a party similar to this one. Her father was to receive an award from my company.”

Kennedy stopped herself from reacting. That wasn’t actually a lie, that was in fact how they met. Her father of course invited the entire family to the event and she was so excited.

But where was Norman going with this?

“I was up on stage giving my speech when I saw her in the crowd, wearing a beautiful pink gown, looking like a glowing goddess in a sea full of black suits and dresses.”

Kennedy’s heart jumped.

He remembered what she wore?

“Finally we were introduced to one another and I swear to God my palms were sweating like I was back presenting my thesis in university!”

Kennedy laughed at that. “Yeah ok, they were kinda sweaty.” She even needed to wipe her hand on her dress after, but she wouldn’t say that in front of the Fisks.

“And?” Vanessa interrupted. “How did you finally ask her out?”

Then Norman looked at Kennedy with such… she didn’t even want to say the words soft and Norman together but there you go. “Her little girl Lydia decided to go running around the hotel. And, call it fate, call it a sign from the universe or whatever else, but Dia ended up bumping into me and I helped her find her mother.”

Norman leaned in close to Kennedy, turning his head to face her. “I’ll never forget that first smile you gave me when I brought Dia back. I just knew I wanted to keep seeing it.”

She remembered too, how relieved she felt the instant she saw Dia running towards her, laughing and talking about how the place was as huge as a castle, with Norman trailing behind her.

In the back of her mind, she knew a place surrounded by Oscorp security and military personnel could somehow be considered safe for a child to roam around unsupervised, but with all the creeps in New York, she didn’t want to take any chances, or what if Dia lost her footing and fell somewhere.

She thanked Norman profusely for taking care of her daughter, and she blushed hearing his gravelly voice so close.

And in the present, Norman talking about her smiling at him, it made her blush even more, knowing that night had more of an impact on him than she thought.

Kennedy smiled softly, “And how was I supposed to refuse a date with the man who brought my daughter back?”

Of course what really happened was someone from the Daily Bugle saw all three of them together, assumed the Oscorp CEO had found a new woman in his life, along with a new child, and well…

Here they were now.

“I’m sure ninety percent of you saying yes was because of my charm.” Norman said smugly, smirking.

Kennedy shook her head in a so-so motion. “Eh, fifty-fifty.”

Her ‘husband’ laughed and Kennedy found herself doing the same, a chill running down her spine from having him so close, his breath ghosting her face and his arm around her.

Her dark brown eyes were drawn to his lips and it must’ve been the champagne making her imagine that Norman’s own blue eyes did the same to her-

“That’s so romantic!” Vanessa’s voice shook them out of… whatever that was. Norman pulled away but kept his arm around her, and Kennedy was grateful for it, afraid she might’ve stumbled too far back without it.

“We’re both lucky men, Osborn.” Wilson added. We-”

“Attention, ladies and gentlemen.” A voice suddenly boomed, echoing throughout the huge room. They turned to the stage and saw a young man in a suit, smiling wide. “If you will please find your seats, the first course of dinner will be served shortly. Thank you and enjoy the evening.”

Wilson finished his glass of champagne. “We’ll go ahead and see if our tablemates are as interesting as you two are…. But I doubt it.” He nodded at Kennedy. “It was a pleasure meeting you, Ms. Kennedy.”

Vanessa took it a step further by bringing Kennedy in for a hug, making sure not to hit the younger woman with her glass. “You’re a delightful girl, dear. You two seem very happy.” she said as she pulled away.

Kennedy simply smiled, in shock from receiving a hug from Vanessa Wilk herself. “It was nice meeting you two as well.”

Vanessa looked from her to Norman. “If anything happens to this girl, I’m holding you entirely responsible, Norman.” her tone was playful but Kennedy could tell there was a threat underneath.

“Enjoy the rest of the night, Vanessa. Make sure your husband doesn’t get into any trouble.” Norman said, to which Wilson just mockingly scoffed at before he and his wife finally took their leave.

As soon as they were gone, Kennedy thought back to how Norman told the story of how they met. How… enamored he seemed to be with her that day.

That is… if what he said was even true, or if he was just putting on a show. She didn’t want to assume anything, only for him to laugh at her for even thinking he could ever actually fall for her.

“You ok?” Norman’s voice snapped her out of her thoughts. She realized they were already standing so close to one another.

But suddenly she couldn’t get close enough.

Maybe it was the champagne, maybe it was seeing the Fisks so happy together, but steeling her nerves, she said, “That story earlier, about how we met. It sounded a lot like you like me.”

She felt Norman’s grip on her tighten for just a bit. He looked at her with a serious expression, yet he also looked… conflicted.

She held her breath, waiting for him to say something, the entire ballroom was filled with sounds of laughter and music, but to Kennedy, it all seemed so silent.

Then his expression changed, and the smirk she’d come to see so many times was back on his face.

He finally spoke, “I’m just a good actor.”

And she was sure at that moment, she could physically feel what a heartbreak was like.

She wanted to disappear. She wanted to say she was sick, go home early, anything to just get away.

She knew, obviously, that there was a chance Norman wouldn’t like her back, but she didn’t think it would hurt this fucking much.

She balled her hands into fists, forcing herself to calm down. A voice told her she should at least try to get through the rest of the night.

Partly because she didn’t want to go home and have her daughter see her crying her eyes out.

So she made the decision to pretend that she didn’t just get her heart broken and she wasn’t completely numb.

Hey if Norman could act, then so could she, right?

Her brain was on auto-pilot as she and Norman found their table, seated beside other Oscorp executives. She at least remembered to smile and greet them when it was appropriate.

The rest of the dinner went fairly well. Kennedy mostly talked to the other people at the table, if she wasn’t listening to the host make jokes, or paying attention - or at least look like she was - when someone gave a speech.

Of course Norman spoke to her as well, asking her if the food was good, if she was feeling cold and even offered his jacket to her when she felt chilly.

It was actually very sweet of him and she would’ve said so out loud if she weren’t still so hurt by his comment earlier.

Thankfully all the meals were so delicious that they were enough to keep her distracted and in a good enough mood as the evening went by.

Until the host invited everyone to hit the dance floor as the band slowed their music down.

Really? Dancing? Wasn’t it supposed to be bedtime for most of the guests already?

Most of their tablemates stood up, smiling and heading to the dance floor. Kennedy found herself staring at the bottom of her empty champagne glass. Perhaps it was time for a refill.

She could walk to the bar and-

“Kenny.” Norman’s voice, for the umpteenth time that night, startled her.

“Hm?” she said lamely, but at least she was able to look at him instead of turning away.

He placed a hand on top of hers gently, and she was pretty sure his hand was clammy. “Would you care to dance?”

Kennedy glanced at the dance floor, where couples, even Wilson and Vanessa, were all dancing slowly to a cover of a song she can vaguely remember. It sounded so romantic.

She looked back at Norman, and she knew what he looked like when he was nervous and that was it, but there was something so… vulnerable as well.

If this was him still acting then give the man an Academy Award already.

Kennedy of course still didn’t want to embarrass him in front of his peers, and wanted to make sure they left a good impression.

So she nodded and said, “Sure.”

Norman seemed to release a breath in relief and his mouth twitched into a half smile before he stood up, offering his hand to Kennedy as she stood up as well, following his lead walking towards the dance floor.

As more heads turned to see the two of them find their spot, she was grateful Norman at least didn’t bring them all the way to the middle of the crowd.

She heard him take a deep breath before slowly raising their still intertwined hands, while his other one went to hold her by the waist. Kennedy gently placed her other hand on his shoulder.

And so they began to dance.

Kennedy could tell this wasn’t Norman’s first time dancing, from the way they glided across the dancefloor with ease, his gaze never leaving hers.

His blue eyes were piercing and she couldn’t look away.

“What happened?” Norman whispered suddenly as they swayed together.

“Hm?” Kennedy asked, blinking up at him.

“That. You’ve been distant since we started dinner.”

And that was when Kennedy turned her head away, not sure she even wanted to tell him that he was the reason for her sudden mood change. She shrugged. “I don’t know, too much food, too much champagne?”

Norman let go of the hand holding hers and moved it to touch her cheek, making her face him. Kennedy’s breath hitched.

Then she saw him actually smirk. “I said something stupid, didn’t I?”

That almost made her laugh. He was self-aware, she had to give him that. Somehow he could always tell when something was off about her.

That or she should really work on her poker face.

She smiled coyly. “Maybe.”

“Ok, what was it?

Suddenly Kennedy’s smile dropped and she wanted to curl into a ball and roll all the way back to her apartment.

She just had to tease him.

One of her hands now free, she waved it in a ‘doesn’t matter’ movement. “It’s nothing now, the food more than made up for it.”

“If that were true, I would’ve seen you smile a bit more. A real smile.”

She stayed quiet.

“Kenny,” he tried again, his voice low. “Please, tell me what’s wrong.”

And she didn’t know if it was the champagne, the gorgeous music playing in the background, his dazzling blue eyes, his hand still on her cheek, or all of those combined, but she bit her lip, let out a deep breath and spoke.

“Was it really just acting?” she asked softly.

Her heart started beating quickly as she waited for his reaction, she was sure her knees were shaking and she might’ve stumbled if she wasn’t holding on to him.

Thankfully she didn’t have to repeat herself, as Norman’s eyes widened and he seemed to register what she was referring to.

“...did you want it to be?” he asked.

No.

“I don’t know.” she said instead.

By that point they weren’t even swaying to the music anymore, just standing on the dance floor surrounded by other couples, completely focused on themselves.

Norman caressed her cheek gently before leaning in closer, gaze staying on Kennedy. “I’m a great scientist, and a terrible actor.”

Kennedy’s eyes widened.

Did he mean-

“Ah. Norman.” Another voice chimed in before Kennedy could say anything. They both turned to see the elderly couple, Nicholas and Ellaine Kent.

Kennedy met them earlier that night already. They reminded her of really sweet and nice grandparents that gifted you cookies when you visited them.

If those grandparents also wanted to invest in projects that more or less involved potential weapons of mass destruction.

But gifting cookies, still yes.

“I’m glad I ran into you, actually.” Nicholas said, and Kennedy noticed how people started moving away from them, the Kents were one of the most prestigious people in the whole party after all. And no one wanted to say the wrong thing or get in their way.

“Mr. Kent!” Norman said in a rather shaky voice, Kennedy almost laughed. Good to know she wasn’t the only one a bit rattled from their interrupted conversation earlier. “How may we help you?”

Nicholas waved him off. “My wife and I were just about to leave, and I wanted to tell you something before I forget it. You know how my memory is nowadays.”

Nicholas chuckled and Kennedy grinned seeing Norman trying so hard to make sure his smile wasn’t forced and his eyes didn’t scream ‘get on with it.’

If the Kents noticed it, they didn’t say anything.

Nicholas continued, “It was so nice catching up with you and to finally meet your wonderful wife.” He flashed a warm smile towards Kennedy, which she returned, before he faced Norman once more.

“I was reminded of the etiquette and culture of the people of Oscorp, much more refined than that Stark boy.”

Norman paused, blinking in surprise, nervousness and impatience gone. “Mr. Kent?”

The older gentleman smirked before it turned into that all-knowing grandfatherly-like smile. “You have our support. My people will be reaching out to you in the morning. And perhaps we could discuss more about your projects over lunch. Ellaine and I would love to have you two over one of these days.”

Norman opened and closed his mouth like a fish out of water, before regaining his composure. “O-of course, sir! Thank you and I’m looking forward to it.”

“You two have a good night, then.” Nicholas said. He looked at Kennedy. “Mrs. Osborn.”

Kennedy nodded. “Good night and get home safely, Mr. and Mrs. Kent.”

Ellaine, who had been quiet the whole time her husband was talking, went over to Kennedy and held the young woman’s hands in her own. “It was lovely meeting you, my dear. Norman is lucky to have you.”

Kennedy opened her mouth to reply but Norman cut her off by saying “I am.”

She knew she was blushing again, the line between playing pretend and reality seemed to blur.

“...a terrible actor.”

It made her wonder how many times just that night had he said something romantic and meant it?

Ellaine let go of Kennedy’s hands, nodded and bid a good night to the couple before following after her husband, and soon, they were lost in the crowd of gowns and suits.

Norman huffed out a disbelieving laugh. “That just happened.” he said.

Kennedy grinned, “It did.”

Norman looked like a kid who just met Santa, his eyes twinkling and his smile so wide.

She was happy for him, Harry told her recently that his father never said it, but Oscorp really needed more funding, especially with so many new tech companies popping up.

So this was a huge win.

The band’s music changed into something livelier and Kennedy suddenly remembered their unfinished conversation before the Kents interrupted them.

And by the look on Norman’s face, he seemed to remember it too.

He stared at her, his blue eyes seemed so focused on her now, like they were trying to figure something out.

He opened his mouth, but it took a while before he could find the words to say.

“Thank you.” he finally said, softly. “I couldn’t have done this without you.”

A part of her was annoyed at how that was all he had to say, after his pretty big confession just moments ago. She found herself hoping he was going to bring that back up.

Finish what you started.

But she understood that with the Kents declaring their support, he’d probably be busy the rest of the night and the entire week, organizing his staff to get their projects together and working overtime… again.

It wouldn’t be the first time he suddenly had to disappear because of work. Once she didn’t hear from him for almost two weeks and no, she was not worried. Dia was just looking forward to seeing him and Harry again.

Yet the moment he showed up on your doorstep you looked so relieved and wanted to hug him, hell, make out with him even. Kennedy remembered her sister Fran saying.

She might’ve felt a little relieved that he was fine, and found it just a bit cute when he smiled apologetically and said he was busy dealing with the aftermath of Quest Aerospace’s new product launch.

Goddamnit just how long had she actually been crushing over Norman Osborn?

Internal debate aside, Kennedy settled for smiling smugly at her ‘husband’. “I know. You’re lucky I chose you over Tony Stark.”

That got him to chuckle. “Like he could handle you.”

“And you can?” She shut her mouth as soon as she said it. That was dangerously close to flirti- no, it was flirting.

She thought he’d get uncomfortable or dodge her comment completely.

So she was surprised when he leaned in, took her hand and brought it close to his face. “You tell me.” he whispered, before kissing her hand delicately and leading her back into the dance.

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With the deal with the Kents all but formally secured, and a few more meetings planned with other investors, Norman decided it was time to head home.

It was late and Dia would’ve already been asleep, Kennedy could talk to her daughter in the morning.

The drive was relatively quiet, with Norman occasionally on the phone fixing up his schedule for the next day, most likely working out which projects to prioritize showing to their potential investors.

Kennedy usually enjoyed silent rides home, especially after a long day. But this one, it seemed like they were both just avoiding the elephant in the room, both refusing to be the first to address their interrupted conversation earlier.

Hell even Charles knew it was awkward and felt the need to turn the radio on loud enough for at least him to hear up front.

Kennedy almost asked him to turn the volume up but a silly part of her thought that if she did that, it might discourage Norman from talking at all, make him think that she didn’t want to continue their discussion.

If there was anything left to discuss.

The car stopped right outside her apartment’s building. Norman was still on his phone so Kennedy thanked Charles and bid him a good night. She saw the driver nod back at her through the rearview mirror.

So they were really just gonna ignore what happened?

Kennedy knew how hyper focused Norman could be with work, so even if she did find it rude that he wouldn’t even properly say goodbye to her, she didn’t push him. Instead she squeezed his arm - the one not holding his phone - and smiled at him before moving to open the car door.

She did it quickly that she missed how his eyes widened, like he just noticed she was about to leave.

Hopefully they could talk about it some other time.

Kennedy got out of the car and only made it halfway to the entrance before she heard another car door open, followed by footsteps behind her.

“Kenny, wait.” she heard his gravelly voice behind her.

She was still deciding whether to tease him about finally putting his phone away or tease him about him being a terrible actor, but she wasn’t even able to get the words out for as soon as she turned around, his lips immediately pressed against hers, his hands on either side of her face.

It took her only a second before she relaxed into the kiss and wrapped her arms around him. This seemed to encourage Norman as she felt his breath hitch before his tongue sought entrance to her mouth.

She immediately obliged.

They’ve kissed before of course, quick pecks to keep up appearances. But this, this was completely different. It wasn’t pretend.

And it felt so damn good.

She actually moaned and Norman, the smug bastard that he was, decided to pull away and smirked when Kennedy almost chased after his lips.

“You okay, darling?” he asked teasingly, but his voice was hoarse. And before Kennedy could reply, he placed a few more kisses along her jaw, then moved down to her neck, almost sucking on her skin.

“I’m great. I’m a glowing goddess, as someone once told me.” she said shakily and she felt Norman’s chuckle vibrate through her.

Norman leaned away just enough to face her again. She blushed seeing his own lips smeared with her lipstick.

“That someone wasn’t lying.” he said, before sighing contentedly. “You have no idea how long I’ve been wanting to do that.”

Then why did you stop?

She so badly wanted to tell him that. That kiss was something else and fuck, she really wanted more. She was feeling lightheaded and warm despite how chilly it was out in the streets of New York City.

Her body was on fire and that was just from one makeout session!

Norman leaned in close once more, his lips beside her ear and she felt his breath touch her skin, sending shivers down her spine. “Talk to me, Kenny. You look absolutely flushed.”

And that was it.

Hoping her voice would be steady enough, Kennedy said, “Get us to a room.”

Norman actually groaned and she took comfort in knowing she wasn’t the only one feeling… excited. But they really should get to somewhere more private before they give Jamison a headline-worthy scandal for his next paper.

Norman growled out a “My place. Harry’s at Peter’s.” before grabbing her hand and leading her back to the car, she actually giggled as she followed him in.

Charles, bless his heart, didn’t comment, just smiled softly before asking Norman if it was time to head home, to which Norman said yes, still holding onto Kennedy’s hand.

Thankfully they both silently agreed that they weren’t going to do anything in front of the driver, but Kennedy swore if the traffic on the way back to Norman’s penthouse was bad, she might not survive that long.

And judging by Norman’s grip on her and how he tried to calm his breathing, neither would he.

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Thankfully the drive really didn’t last too long and as soon as the huge Manhattan building came into view, Norman didn’t even wait for the bellboy to open the door for him, he was already out, Kennedy not far behind him.

He remembered to call out a ‘thank you and good night’ to Charles at least, who then bid them both a good night once more.

It was like they were on auto pilot, speed walking in the lobby, making sure to nod at the guards and concierge who greeted them. She would’ve laughed at how jittery they both were if she weren’t so focused on getting to the damn elevator that would lead them straight to Norman’s floor.

And as soon as they were in the elevator and the doors closed behind them, Norman was on her, pushing her to the wall and crashing his lips onto hers.

“Don’t know if I can wait any longer.” Norman said as he peppered kisses on her neck.

Kennedy had to will herself not to wrap her legs around him. They were so close to his place, seconds away.

“You did pretty well on the drive over.” she teased.

He brought one hand close to her breasts, teasing her and just barely slipping his hand underneath her low-cut dress to touch her skin.

Kennedy groaned.

“Don’t know if I can say the same for you now.” he said lowly.

The elevator finally pinged open and they tumbled into his penthouse, which to Kennedy still looked like a huge mansion.

They stumbled up the stairs and Kennedy was about ready to remove her heels.

Finally in the privacy of his room, Norman wasted no time to remove his coat and tie while Kennedy undid her ponytail and removed her earrings. Next to go were her heels, and she was so glad to finally rest her feet.

She looked back at Norman and saw that he was stripped down to just his pants now, shoes gone as well, thrown somewhere around the room along with the rest of their discarded clothes and accessories.

She couldn’t help but blush seeing his lithe yet strong upper body. For a work-obsessed scientist in his mid-40s, he sure did stay in shape.

As much as she wanted to admire his physique even more, he was already closing the distance between them and kissing her. He undid the straps of her gown first and she hurriedly got out of it, letting it pool on the floor.

She didn’t wear a bra underneath her dress, and now left only in her panties, Norman gazed at her like she was a piece of art.

“You really are a goddess.” he whispered before bringing his face down to kiss her breasts.

She moaned when Norman took one nipple in his mouth and pinched the other. She could already feel the pleasure and so badly wanted to touch him, so she reached for his pants.

But he held her wrist away and chuckled before lifting her up and bringing her to the bed. She watched as Norman removed his belt and finally pulled his pants and underwear down, now bare to her.

And fuck, he was a sight. She already knew he wasn’t the typical cushy executive, and seeing his body now confirmed it. He was lanky but still quite muscular, and he wasn’t soft either.

She could see a few scars here and there. From experiments maybe?

“You’re making me blush here, Kenny.” he said, and Kennedy knew he meant it to be teasing, but she could tell there was a bit of self-consciousness as well.

He absolutely had nothing to be concerned about.

“You’re gorgeous.” she said breathlessly, seriously.

She noticed his body relax and his gaze softening before he joined her on the bed. He was on top of her and kissing her once more.

This time his kisses were slower, lingering longer, savoring. Kennedy pulled him closer, running her fingers through his hair. She couldn’t get enough of him, breathing in his scent, his favorite cologne, mixed with the champagne they had earlier and something that was just Norman.

He made his way down her body, trailing kisses as he went. Until finally, he was kissing close to her core, and, after lightly squeezing her hips, oh-so-slowly removed her panties.

She practically kicked them off by the time they reached her knees, Norman chuckling at her impatience.

“What’s the rush?” he asked smugly from between her legs, lifting them over his shoulders.

And fuck she didn’t trust herself to say something snarky back. All she managed was a shaky “Norman, please.”

And finally she felt his tongue on her, licking at her folds. She bucked her hips and her hands grabbed the sheets tightly, needing to cling onto something.

She looked up at the ceiling as she writhed, but Norman squeezed her hips, forcing her to meet his intense blue eyes, watching her as he devoured her.

Then he buried his face in her, sucking at her clit, Kennedy making weak sounds as she grabbed a handful of his hair.

She was practically sobbing when Norman decided to slip two fingers inside her, pumping roughly as he continued to suck on her. The pleasure was becoming too much for her, her body heating up. She lifted her hips closer to him and he started moving his fingers in and out quicker.

He kept his eyes on her as she started trembling. Kennedy cried out his name weakly as she came. She whimpered as he continued to lick at her, his fingers now back on her thighs.

She pulled on his hair again and he looked up at her mischievously, kissing her core before moving his body back up so he could press his lips to hers once more.

She could taste herself on him and she mewled, her body still reeling from her orgasm.

Then she felt his erect cock touch her entrance and they both groaned at the contact.

Norman looked at her, seeking permission and Kennedy smiled softly and nodded, not trusting herself to say anything coherent.

Norman lined himself up at her entrance and she gasped as he pushed deep into her, keeping his pace slow.

She pulled his face closer to her, kissing his mouth and jaw. Norman grunted as he thrusted into her. Kennedy moaned, his gravelly voice turning her on even more.

And, as if he could read her mind, he spoke, “Fuck, you feel so good.”

Kennedy bucked her hips up. Hearing Norman Osborn’s dirty talk was enough to send her over the edge again.

“Norma- agh- faster, please. Go faster.” she was surprised to finally be able to finish a sentence in her state, absolutely high from the pleasure.

Norman obliged, thrusting quicker.

He nipped her ear before leaving kisses on her neck, sucking at her skin. And fuck, she almost wanted him to leave a mark.

He brought his face back up to press his lips to hers, their teeth clacking against each other as they kissed.

Norman pounded into her harder and Kennedy moaned, not caring how loud she was being.

“Norman, I’m so- I’m so close.” she whimpered weakly.

“Don’t hold back. Scream for me.” he said, his blue eyes on her.

And it was too much for Kennedy.

She cried out his name, arching her back and trembling as her second orgasm hit her, Norman planting soft kisses on her jaw.

She’s whimpering as Norman’s thrusts become quicker and more erratic, and with one final deep push, he came with a low groan, his seed spilling inside her.

Norman touched his forehead to hers, before kissing her deeply.

He looked at her with such warmth and tenderness that made Kennedy’s heart soar.

He stood up to grab fresh towels from his closet and they cleaned up as best as they could.

Norman lay on one side of the bed, kissing Kennedy’s shoulder.

She grabbed the blanket to drape it over them then moved to cuddle up with him, resting her head on his chest. He placed an arm around her, holding her close.

Norman was the first to break the silence. “Safe to say we’ll be having breakfast together tomorrow?” he asked cheekily.

Kennedy smiled up at him. “You mean you were planning on leaving the bed so soon?”

That got him to laugh. “As wonderful as that sounds, I have to go to the office tomorrow and formally confirm the Kents’ investment.”

“Well, I do want to check on Dia as well.” She can just imagine how smug her sister would be. Fran basically shoved Kennedy out the door and told her not to rush, that Dia would be perfectly fine for the rest of the weekend.

“Dinner after?” Norman asked, his voice hopeful.

And Kennedy lifted her head to give him a quick peck on the lips. “It’s a date.”

He grinned at her. “An official one this time.”

No more pretending, is what he meant.

And she fell asleep, excited for this new reality of their relationship.