#taronegertonfanfiction

[burgers-and-french-fries]

Taron Egerton: Coffee Daydream.

Note: This is to tide you over for a few days while I work on the others and get them scheduled for you.

I hope that you enjoy but please remember that this is unedited and there are mistakes etc. Also note that the reader does have a name in this but you can change it to your name when you read this.

Enjoy!

===

It had been more than a few bloody weeks since Taron and Cherrie had moved into their new house and the wi-fi had been disconnected (so that it could be connected at their new place) and there was nothing to do. I mean, there was stuff to do but nothing that sounded appealing to Cherrie. She had tried to unpack, tried to read the books she needed to for her classes, but they weren’t capturing her attention, making it hard for her to get into. She had also tried to make some fun meals but that only resulted in the food getting burnt and the house almost catching fire. Nothing was going her way and it was beyond irritating at this point.

The only thing that managed to keep her somewhat sane was the currently grumpy pain in the ass male in the upstairs bedroom catching up on his beauty sleep as he had just come back from a work trip to L.A.

“Right, I’ve had it. Time for a walk Ziggy.” Cherrie said as she wandered over to where the pup’s leash was kept, as well as the shoes and coats.

Ziggy trotted after her and sat down at her feet, waiting to be hooked up to his leash and of course waiting for Cherrie to put her shoes etc. on ready for their outing. It was Ziggy’s favorite as he got to sniff around and make a new friend or two at the dog park. It was great fun.

Cherrie on the other hand, used it as a chance to clear her mind and as a chance to get fresh air. It was cathartic for her and so was the singing she did as she passed the other town dwellers. She didn’t care who heard her or what she sounded like. It was a good escape for her, and it brought her so much joy. The cutest thing about it is that every time she did this with Ziggy by her side, it almost looked like the pup was dancing along as he trotted beside her. His head would move side to side and his body would appear as though it was bopping along to whatever tune Cherrie was singing. They were perfect companion duo.

=

45 minutes, one missing tennis ball, two sticks collected and one large coffee later, Cherrie and Ziggy returned home. They had seen and done so much, and they were both feeling tired and were ready to warm up. Of course Ziggy was looking forward to getting cuddled up on the sofa whilst Cherrie worked on the puzzle she bought last year. She had wanted to complete it as soon as she got it but then her mind went to other things, and it got put into the game cupboard and hadn’t been touched since. Cherrie didn’t know how long her sanity would last with the puzzle, but she was determined to at least complete a good chunk of it so that she could leave the rest for the grumpy butt to complete while he was home and between jobs.

“Right Ziggy, come here.” Cherrie said as she got off her chair to charge it, before picking the damp dog up. She carried him inside and shut the door, locking it behind her.

“Oh good, you’re back.” Came a raspy voice.

“Yup but I’m tired and looking forward to a shower. It’s bloody cold out there and wet.” She replied as she placed Ziggy down. Big mistake. The pup decided that it would be a good time to shake out his fur and water went everywhere. On the walls of the entry way, on the rug and on Cherrie and on Taron as well.

“Oh well, thank you.” Taron grumbled as he wiped away a few droplets that had hit his face. Cherrie tried not to giggle as she too wiped droplets away.

“I’m going to make some coffee, want some?” Cherrie asked as she removed her coat and hung it on the peg.

“I suppose. I’m going for a shower.” Taron replied.

“Ok but first, can I have a kiss?” Cherrie asked, making Taron smile, as grumpy as he was.

Taron leaned forward and pecked her lips quickly. It would do for now.

“Thank you.” Cherrie said as Taron turned and bounded up the stairs.

=

Cherrie pottered around the kitchen as the coffee machine did it’s thing. She put together some sweets and baked goods on a plate so that she could enjoy them with her coffee and as she did her puzzle. It would give her energy and give her dopamine as well.

Once the treats were plated, Cherrie pulled out her phone to check and see if she had any Instagram messages. With no surprises, she didn’t have any messages but what she was met with was a very smoking hot picture of her boyfriend.

It was black and white, and he was sprawled out on a sofa wearing the softest looking cardigan and a pair of jeans. His hair was slightly disheveled and appeared to have curls in it….her favorite. This photo was drool worthy for sure.

Cheekily, she typed out a comment and posted it just as the coffee machine alerted her that the coffee was ready. She shut off her phone and set it on the counter, mentally fanning herself as she felt the familiar pulling in her lower belly every time she saw Taron in person or in hot picture form.

=

Meanwhile, Taron was drying off when he heard his phone buzz on the bedside table. He walked over to it and smirked when he saw it was the comment Cherrie left on his post. Boy was she going to get a surprise when she saw him wearing the cardigan and the jeans.

He had already asked the stylist while on set if he could have it as he knew Cherrie would love it. She had accepted and told him that she’d send it to him. He thanked her and while Cherrie was out on her walk this morning, it arrived. Taron had hurried to get it upstairs before Cherrie got home and thank goodness as well because she arrived home a couple minutes after he came downstairs from hiding it away in case.

Taron placed his phone back down and went back to drying off before he dressed himself and went to join Cherrie.

=

Walking downstairs as quietly as he could as to not disturb Cherrie, Taron saw her sitting at the table,  digging through the puzzle pieces as she tried to find another piece that would fit with the candle image she was currently attempting to build.

“Gotcha, you little fucker.” Cherrie shouted excitedly. She placed it in it’s proper spot and moved on.

Taron tried not to giggle at her outburst as he got into position on the sofa.

Ziggy yipped at Taron which made Cherrie grunt in annoyance.

“Ziggy, stop bar-“ She started as she turned to see Taron looking at her from the sofa.

Cherrie was at a loss for words. Her throat felt dry, and her body felt all warm and tingly.

“Well, are you going to keep staring at me or are you going to come and give me a kiss?” Taron said seductively.

Cherrie swallowed slowly. She was very turned on which made Taron smirk at her, which in turn made Cherrie blink slowly and bite her lower lip as she checked him out.

She moved from her chair and moved over to where he was and stood over him as he gently took her hand as he moved off the sofa to stand in front of her.

“Hello.” Cherrie muttered before her brain decided to join in on the party her body was feeling. She shook her head.

“I mean, oh my god.” She said as she let her fingers trail over the material of the brown cardigan. Of course that wasn’t all that she was feeling. She could feel the semi softness of his belly. Yes, he still had some muscle on his body but for the most part, he was back to his cuddly self at least for now.

Taron watched her through sultry eyes and sucked in a small breath as her hand grazed over his jean covered penis.

“This looks so good on you.” Cherrie whispered as their bodies drew closer together and their lips touched in a gentle yet hidden passion kiss. Their lips fitting together better than they remembered.

Taron’s hands went to both sides of Cherrie’s face as her hand gripped onto the cardigan as if she was afraid he’d disappear.

“But?” Taron mumbled against her lips. Cherrie pulled away enough to see his half open eyes.

“But it would look even better on the ground.” She replied.

Taron chuckled lightly and closed the gap between them again. One of his hands on her back pulling her in as his other hand tangled in her hair, keeping her in place.

Little by little, articles of clothing sat on the ground in a messy pile as the couple laid on the sofa. Cherrie under Taron as he kissed down her body. The scruff of his face tickling her skin in the best ways and the best part, the feeling of his bare erection rubbing against her inner most intimate parts.

“Feels so good.” Cherrie sighed out as she felt Taron’s right-hand travel down to her clit where it began to rub her tenderly.

Taron chuckled against her left breast as his tongue encircled her nipple, taking gentle nips here and there, making her back arch as a wave of ecstasy coursed through her veins.

“Stop teasing.” She whimpered. Taron moved from her chest to look up at her.

“I thought you liked being teased.” He said.

“I do but I just need to feel every inch of you in me.” She replied, making his body shudder at the image in his brain.

“You sure?” He asked and Cherrie nodded.

“Please.” She said breathily.

Taron removed his fingers from her clit and brought his hand up to his mouth so that he could lubricate his cock. Once he had the lubrication, he moved his fingers to wrap around himself. He stroked his penis a couple times before running the head of his penis against Cherrie, collecting her arousal before he slid into her.

Cherrie cried out as she felt him stretch her. It was a feeling that she would never get used to. It was like she was floating on air. It was sexy, magical, hot and passionate.

“Oh fuck.” She said as she felt him bottom out, his balls against her and the light smattering of his pubic hair rubbing against her as he took a few steady breaths.

“Ready?” He asked when he felt confident enough that he was going to cum.

“Hmmm.” Cherrie moaned, giving Taron the ‘all clear’.

Taron leaned down and captured her lips in a sweet kiss as he began to pull out of her before steadily entering her again.

Soon enough he set a rhythm and both of them were moaning in tandem and Cherrie felt herself getting dangerously close to her orgasm.

“I’m so close.” She warned. Taron wasn’t having that, so he slowed right down, much to Cherrie’s dismay.

“Why did you do that?” She asked as he dragged out his movements.

“I’m not there yet.” He breathed out simply.

“Go back to that pace and you will be soon.” She said with a hint of mischief in her eye.

Instead of questioning her, he did as she said and just like she said, Taron quickly reached his climax at the same time as Cherrie, thanks to the fact that she delicately bit down on one of his nipples. It’s not something he ever thought he’d be into, but damn was it euphoric.

“Holy fuck.” Taron muttered as he buried his face in the crook of Cherrie’s neck.

“I couldn’t agree more. That was incredible.” She agreed.

“Give me a few minutes and we can go again.” Taron quipped making Cherrie giggle.

=

“You with me?” Layne asked as she sat on the other side of the computer screen during her and Cherrie’s daily call.

Cherrie shook her head.

“Yeah, sorry. My mind wandered there for a minute.” Cherrie replied.

“I could tell.” Layne chuckled, knowing exactly what Cherrie was thinking.

“It’s that bloody picture. It’s hot.” Cherrie told her friend.

Layne nodded.

“Tell me about it.” Layne said.

“The black and white doesn’t help either.” Cherrie said and Layne nodded again in agreement.

“Oh for sure. It really suites him.” Layne replied.

The friends talked for a little longer before Cherrie declared her need for a coffee. They hung up and Cherrie went to the kitchen to make her coffee and day dream some more.

 ===

Tag List: @geo-winchester @elizami11s​

[writingformadderton]

Reflections

Ship: Taron x Fem!Reader

Word Count: 2,006

Summary: While searching for a dress for an upcoming event, you start to feel insecure about your body. It truly takes a toll on you, and Taron catches you in a vulnerable state. (TW!! Insecurities, Body Image, Negative Self-Talk!!)

Author's Note: Fluff, angst, and love!!! First fic posted in a good while, ahhhhh. I'm so nervous for you guys to read this bc I wrote and edited this one alone. This topic hit extremely close to home for me as I have body image issues as well, so I hope it is actually good for you guys! I truly hope you enjoy it. Happy reading! -Miya💜

Requested by Anon:

“I’ve gained 25 pounds Dasia! And the wedding is in 2 weeks!” I grumble out loud to my phone while standing in front of my mirror. Dasia, one of my sisters, was on Facetime with me while I tried on dozens of dresses in my walk-in closet. Our best friend was getting married in 2 weeks and I thought I had something to wear. But I was clearly wrong.

“Stop it! You look gorgeous! What about that sunflower colored dress you bought like a year ago but never wore? I’m pretty sure the tag is still on it.” Dasia throws out another suggestion, while also trying on her own dresses in her home. She gives her body a once over in the dress, but then shakes her head and walks away from her phone to retrieve another option. I study my body in a crucifying manner, the grimace on my face evident.

I look awful. How did I let myself get to this point?

“It probably won’t fit over my disgusting thighs, not to mention my stomach.” The words roll off my tongue, but immediately bring pain to my chest. I run my hands from my chest down to my stomach, the current red maxi dress hugging the new curves in ways I didn’t like.

I turn to the side and try to hide the belly, but the open back catches my attention immediately. I gasp with horror as I catch a glimpse of the newly occurring love-handles settling in. I quickly face front and sigh in despair.

I feel just as bad as I look. I can’t believe I let myself go like this.

I close my eyes and try to hug my body to offer comfort, but my subconscious was eating away at me silently.

Dasia walks back into camera view and studies herself in her full body mirror. Her body now dawning a gorgeous pale blue dress with a high slit. “How about this one for me? I know we can’t wear her colors, but maybe she’ll make an exc- “

Her voice trails off as her attention turns to me on Facetime. She walks closer and kneels in front of the device.

I open my eyes and feel tears start to well up. A shaky breath leaves my lips and my hands grip the dress at the sides, trying to ground myself.

“Darling, look at me.” Dasia calls out to me, a soft expression resting on her face.

I look towards my phone and fight back a sniffle. I look down at the floor in shame.

“Are you in your head, letting your thoughts beat you down?” She asks gently.

“Dasia, I feel like shit. I mean look at me. Who’s gonna want to take pictures with me? No matter what dress I wear, I’m gonna get unwanted attention!” I blurt out harshly. Dasia looks taken aback, but sighs softly.

“Hunny, cut yourself some slack. You have been so busy these last couple months with the new house and job. Taron still thinks you are the most gorgeous specimen walking, for gods sake!” She tries to coax me into cheering up. But my subconscious had already gotten the best of me. I was hearing her words, but none of them stuck.

“Until he doesn’t. Then what?” I spoke just barely loud enough for her to hear. I look in the mirror once more, and it breaks my heart. Shoulders slouching in defeat as my brain betrays my heart with the thoughts running through it. “I…I gotta go. I’ll call you tomorrow and we can decide on something.” I say without a second thought. I walk over and grab my phone, giving her one last glance.

“Sweetheart, please don’t be too hard on yourself. You are beau- “ She tries to finish her sentence, but I hang up quickly. She closes her eyes and sighs. “I love you.” She whispers to herself.

The tears begin to flow freely and my breathing becomes ragged. A sob pours out from my mouth as I sink to the floor and discard my phone. “Fuck!” I yell out. I sit against my wall and try to stop the stream of tears falling. But the more ragged my breathing became, the more the task proved to be too difficult.

Pathetic.

It rings through my head over and over as I try to catch my breath. My heart aches painfully as my mind becomes my worst enemy.

How could I let this happen?

I sit for a half hour until the tears finally stop and my breathing calms down. I tapped my phone screen.

4:30. Taron will be home soon. I need to get dinner started.

With a deep breath, I grab my phone and pick myself up off the floor. I take off the dress still hugging my body and hang it back up. I rub my face and change into shorts and a tee, turning off the light to my walk-in closet once exiting.

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

Taron unlocks the front door and walks into the house, a grin on his face as he enters. He had been bombarded with meetings all day for this upcoming film and all he wanted to do was get back to his love. He takes off his shoes by the door. “Honey, I’m home!” He calls out with a chuckle. He looks up and observes the main entry way.

 It’s quiet….too quiet.

“(Y/N)! Are you here?” He calls out again. No answer again.

His eyebrows furrow together as he walks towards the dining room. The smell of home cooking coated the air, but no food nor I sat waiting for him. He walks into the kitchen, but to no avail I was not there. Going over to the stove, he noticed pots filled with freshly cooked sides and the oven light illuminated to reveal the main dish sitting patiently for consumption.

Where is my lovely girlfriend? The thought came to the forefront of his mind. Pulling himself away from the stove, he left the kitchen and searched the living room. Nothing.

He lets out a small sigh and pulls his phone from his back pocket. He quickly dials my number and listens to the ringing. Faintly, my ringtone sounds to his ears and he looks around. He slowly starts following the sound while holding his own phone in his hand. He makes his way upstairs.

“Babe! Baby!” He calls out to me. Now, he was starting to worry. Why weren’t you answering?

But I don’t answer him. I can barely hear him over the sound of my own sobs.

I sit on the floor of my shower, crying uncontrollably as the hot water crashed against my body. I had been in that same position for almost 15 minutes. I’ve tried to pull myself together and get out, but my attempts were met with more tears.

After cooking dinner for myself and Taron, I tried to motivate myself to put something on my stomach. But after what happened earlier, I couldn’t bring myself to swallow anything other than water. So, I left the cooked food on and in the stove, waiting to be served. I wandered back upstairs to take a shower and clear my mind.

Maybe the hot water could wash away my troubles.

15 minutes later, my body was clean, but I couldn’t stop crying. Faintly, I hear my phone ring from inside the bedroom. It was probably Taron calling. I take a deep breath and close my eyes, tears stinging as they fall freely. I hear Taron calling my name. but my voice is too hoarse to respond. So, I continue to sob quietly.

Taron finally makes it into the bedroom and sees the phone on the floor. Raising his eyebrows, he ends the call and picks it up, placing it on top of the dresser. His ears focus on the sound of running water and his attention turns to the bathroom door. He quickly walks in and as his eyes land on my figure, his heart aches.

He quickly makes his way over to the shower and opens the glass door, turning off the water and kneeling down to hug me tight. I wrap my arms tight around his body and take in his scent.

“What happened to you, my love?” He speaks softly, rubbing my back. I respond in a sniffle and tighten my hold on his body. I needed the comfort so badly, and his arms always felt safe. “It’s alright, I’m home now. Everything’s alright.” He says and kisses my temple. I nod and loosen my grip to look in his eyes.

Taron brings his hands to my face and gently holds me, thumbs caressing the sides of my face with such care and tenderness. I melt into his touch, closing my eyes and calming down little by little. He sits with me just like that for a while before I open my eyes once more.

“Hey babygirl.” His lips pull into a small smile when he sees the action. I nestle my face into his hands as a response. “Are you okay to get out of the shower?” He asks in the gentlest voice I have ever heard.

I nod slowly with soft eyes. He smiles and kisses my forehead, slowly standing up and stepping onto the floor mat. He holds out his hands, and I take them happily. After standing, Taron tells me to wait for a second while he grabs a towel. While watching him, my heart flutters as he is set in taking care of me without even knowing the problem.

He comes over with a warm towel and dries me off with the utmost care. I don’t give him any resistance as he does the task. Instead, I take in how soft he is and how he admires my body for what it is. It almost makes me feel ashamed for how I was feeling earlier. I slightly cower away, and he notices the action and slowly stands tall. He wraps the towel tightly around my body and wraps his arms around my waist. Mine wrap around his neck and look into his eyes.

“What’s troubling you, my love?” He whispers while rubbing small circles on my back. I lightly blush and break eye contact, looking down in shame. But he brings one hand to my chin and gently lifts my head with his finger. “No need to hide from me, love.”

Taking a deep breath and clearing my throat, I finally speak after what had felt like hours of crying. “I was feeling in-insecure about my body after trying to find a d-dress for the wedding.” I force the words out of me in a small voice. I see the concern, but a loving aura reflects in Taron’s eyes after I spoke.

He leans down, closes his eyes and kisses me, gentle yet passionate. It slightly catches me off guard, but I immediately melt into the kiss. He pulls away and lays his forehead on mine, looking at me. My eyes remain closed for a bit, then finally open to those blue-green orbs I love the most.

“You know you are the most beautiful girl in this world.” He speaks with confidence.

“Yea, but Taron-“

“No buts darling. You have the body of a goddess. And no matter what you look like, I will always love and adore you.” He says in a firm, but soft manner. He places a kiss on my nose to solidify his statements.

I blush hard and bury my face in his neck. “Do you promise?” I whisper, my heart fluttering and growing warm.

“I promise, my love.” He reassures and rubs my back. My eyes began to water and I hold him tighter. “I love you, from now until the end of time. You will always be beautiful to me, no matter what.” Taron whispers, placing another kiss on my temple.

“I love you too, Taron.” I speak just loud enough for him to hear.

[burgers-and-french-fries]

Hello!!! How are you? The moment I read the be creative part in the dos and donts I had this idea...now just hear me out. Jimmy and Eggsy are twins (or brothers whatever works best for u <3) separated at birth which is how they ended up w their own separate lifes. At some point they find out about each other bc of Eggsys work. The reader is Eggsys best friend who is also a Kingsman and meets Jimmy (maybe at Eggsys wedding?) And Jimmy being Jimmy is all flirty and things start to develop between them? Could you maybe write about it? Ofc only if you have time and like the idea!

Note: Hi lovely. I want to thank you for your immense patience with me.

I know that this is on the short side but I'm proud of it. Also, sorry if there is spelling mistakes and other grammatical errors, I did try and edit but I may have missed some things.

I hope that you enjoy!

===

Bad boy Jimmy Keene had grown up in an unhealthy home feeling like he had been missing a part of himself. For the longest time, he tried to fill that void with anything and everything he could think of. Drugs, alcohol, cars, money, weapons and most of all, women. He loved women.

He loved how he could chill with them the way he couldn’t with a man. He loved how their hands fit in his and he loved making them moan and scream his name. He loved the powerful feeling he got when they would look at him as though he was their next meal….the feeling more than mutual.

The one thing he loved more than anything? The darkened corners of the strip clubs he would visit on a late Friday night. A Friday night much like this one.

Jimmy swaggered into the building with a confidence about him that most of the people inside could never possess. Everyone except you.

You watched from the bar as Jimmy settled into his corner before the person in your ear piece spoke.

“Focus please, agent Vivian.” Merlin spoke as he noticed the woman staring at their target.

“I am. I’m watching the target to make sure he doesn’t do anything.” You said sassily, making Eggsy laugh through the ear piece.

You and Eggsy had been friends for a very long time and when this case came up, you were paired together which was a choice that Merlin now found himself regretting.

“I still can’t believe that we found him.” Eggsy said in disbelief that they were tracking his long-lost twin brother.

That fact he even had a brother to begin with was surreal to Eggsy but to find that the brother was identical to him, that was worlds of surreal that he didn’t think existed.

Before you could reply with your two cents on the matter, Jimmy was on the move and heading straight to where you were sitting.

You hadn’t noticed it but while you were talking to your colleagues, Jimmy’s eyes had fallen upon you, and he was enamoured by you and your beauty.

“Hello gorgeous.” Jimmy greeted as he came to a stand still next to you.

Your breath hitched when you faced him. It was like you were staring at Eggsy except Jimmy had an American accent and had black hair as apposed to Eggsy’s brown hair and south London accent. Sure Eggsy was hot and fucking sexy but Jimmy seemed to put Eggsy to shame.

“Gorgeous?” You questioned with a quirked brow.

“You’re right, you’re more than that.” Jimmy said, eyeing you up and down.

It made you feel self conscious if you were being honest, even if you did think Jimmy was modeled after a Grecian god.

“Does that shit ever work for you?” You asked, somewhat unimpressed that he was trying to get into your pants.

“You go girl.” Merlin whispered, speaking to you through your ear piece.

You wanted to laugh out loud at the Scotsman, but you didn’t. You held it in.

“Come on now, I saw you watching me.” Jimmy said, leaning in a little closer.

You tried to keep your cool.

“Who says it was out of interest?” You questioned with a hint of cheek in your tone.

Jimmy’s brows raised in surprise. He had never had someone so attractive play hard to get the way you were.

“I like you.” Jimmy said, pointing his finger at you as a smirk appeared on his face.

“Good to know.” You replied.

“Can I buy you a drink?” Jimmy asked and you shrugged.

“Nothing cliché and girlie.” You told him, giving in just a little, though you could feel Eggsy’s gaze burning a hole in your brain.

“Agent Vivian, there is no time for this now.” Merlin lectured.

You cleared your throat and made excused yourself to the bathroom.

Did you return to Jimmy against Merlin and Eggsy’s wishes, perhaps. Did you have a good time, maybe. Did you and Jimmy do the deed, you weren’t one to kiss and tell.

All you knew was that this bad boy had you wrapped around his little finger.

===

Tag List:

@elizami11s @geo-winchester @stilessbaseballbat

[burgers-and-french-fries]

I don’t know how many of you remember this imagine but for the people that do, would you be interested in reading a second part to this?

The reason that I ask is because I’ve had this adorable idea floating around my head for a while now and I feel the need to write it down.

So yeah, please let me know if you be interested in a second part to this.

Most of all @stronglyobsessed​ would you be interested in a second part as you were the original requester.

[burgers-and-french-fries]

OKAY AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST

134: “You’ll be the death of me.” with Taron? :) <3

Note: Thank you for requesting this. This is a scheduled post.

The prompt is highlighted in bold.

===

Playing board games had been a favorite of y/n’s for a long time, especially during a rainy day with a few candles lit, a hot cup of tea, warm cozy clothes and your loved ones close by.

“Ok T, your turn.” Y/n said as took a sip of her tea.

Taron looked at the checker board to weigh his options of where he could place his piece down. He had a few options, but he had a feeling that y/n was luring him into a false sense of victory.

Y/n watched him closely and chuckled to herself when his tongue poked out between his lips like it always did when he was concentrating on something. It was one of the things she really loved about.

“Give up?” She taunted, knowing full well that he’d deny it.

“Nope.” He mumbled as his brows furrowed.

Y/n nodded and took another sip of her tea while she continued waiting for Taron to take his move.

“You’re pretty.” Y/n teased as she held up her phone, knowing that Taron would look at her and she could capture how he looked in that moment.

Clad in pj’s as his glasses sat perched on the tip of his nose. His hair disheveled from the nap they took earlier, and face covered in a light smattering of scruff. Hot and sexy.

Sure enough, Taron looked up at her with a peaceful smile. To her it was the best picture.

“Did you just take another picture of me?” Taron asked as the shutter sound could be heard.

Y/n smiled cheekily and shook her head.

“Not at all.” She giggled.

“You’re not posting it are you?” He asked, looking back at the board.

Y/n got off the sofa and went to sit next to him.

“No, this is just for me.” She told him, turning his head so that she could kiss his lips.

“Love you.” She said.

Taron was about to reply when the timer for the cookies in the oven went off.

“Oooo cookies!” Y/n shouted excitedly as she got up and hurried to the kitchen.

Taron laughed to himself at how happy she got over the simplest things.

“You’ll be the death of me.” He whispered to himself, unaware that y/n was already back.

“Did you say something babe?” She asked as she sat back down next to her boyfriend.

“I said you’ll be the death of me.” He answered, making her smile.

“We’ll be the death of each other.” She replied as she picked up a cookie and held it toward Taron so that he could take a bite.

All in all, it was a quiet and simple evening but to y/n, it was those moments that were the most romantic ones.

===

Tag List:

@geo-winchester

@stilessbaseballbat

@elizami11s

[burgers-and-french-fries]

Taking Chances: Chapter Forty Nine.

Note: This is the penultimate chapter and I’m beyond thrilled to say that because I am so ready to move on with Taron and Nicola’s story.

That being said, this chapter is only half edited so keep that in mind when reading. Also keep in mind that this chapter mentions the use of drugs and alcohol. it also mentions suicide and other forms of abuse; and last but certainly not least, this mentions adoption.

I think that covers it. Enjoy!

===

Laying in bed wide awake was nothing new for Nicola but with her mind going a million miles per milli-second with the events that led up to this point, it was no wonder why she couldn’t seem to settle herself.

“Are you awake?” Nicola asked just above a whisper. When no reply came, she continued to lay there until she grew annoyed with her brain and gently got out of bed.

She quietly walked down to the kitchen and made herself a cup of tea before sitting on the sofa and turning on the tv in the hopes that whatever was on would help lull her into a sense of tiredness and she’d be able to finally fall asleep.

*Flashback*

After saying her goodbyes and giving her well wishes to Edna, Nicola sat on the ground with her bags next her in the airport baggage claim. She honestly had no clue what to do.

She sat there with a blank look on her face as she picked at the skin around her fingers, deciding what her next move would be. Did she really want to leave the protection of the airport building and face reality or did she just want to stay in her current spot and let the world pass her by. She didn’t know. She felt lost.

Sure she talked to Edna on the plane and told her certain things, but it didn’t help like she had hoped. Instead she felt fried, like her brain was a hamster running on its hamster wheel with no end in sight.

Nicola pulled out her phone and saw that she had a few missed calls from Brenna and a couple texts from her as well. Nicola had no energy to reply but the one thing she had the energy for was talking to Taron. As much as he had made her mad and pissed her off at times, he felt like her rock, her safe place. She knew it didn’t make much sense but now that they were on the same page of moving on for the better, she felt like she really needed him in this moment.

She was about to press his contact name but when Brenna called, Nicola stopped and thought better of it. She knew it wasn’t smart to do until she and Taron could talk face to face.

Nicola took a deep breath and answered the call, but one thing was for sure, she could really use one of Taron’s comforting hugs right about now.

=

Meanwhile back in Cannes, Taron sat on the bed taking a small break from packing. He scrolled through his phone and looked at the pictures from the previous night.

 He still felt like he was on cloud nine with everything. Not only had the movie been well received but he and Nicola had finally taken a step forward to repair their relationship and he was hopeful that they’d end up together. Though in saying that, Nicola had disappeared again, which at this point was par for the course. Taron would show his vulnerability to her and then she’d run. This time though, he knew something larger was keeping them apart, he just wasn’t aware of what it was yet.

Clicking on an image taken of him and Luna, Taron smiled but jumped when a knock sounded at the door.

“Taron, it’s Guy.” Guy prudently said through the door.

Taron frowned to himself. He felt the worry flood over him. He thought it was about one of the kids, but nothing could have prepared him for what Guy was about to say.

“What is it? What’s wrong? Are the kids ok?” Taron asked as he opened the door, revealing Guys concerned expression.

“The kids are fine, but I don’t think Nicola is.” Guy replied.

Taron’s face paled and his heart started racing.

“Go on.” Taron said cautiously.

Guy took a deep breath and played the voice message for Taron that was left before Nicola was notified.

‘Hello, my name is detective Fellows with Scotland Yard. I’m looking for Nicola Ryan. We have tried contacting her but are unable to do so. If you are able to reach her, please tell her that we need to speak as soon as possible as this is a family matter. Thank you for your time, have a good afternoon.’

Taron stood in his spot feeling even more concerned.

“What was the family matter?” Taron asked.

Guy didn’t reply, instead, he played another voice message.

‘Hi, this is Amanda Robinson with Chilton family services. I have made attempts to contact Nicola Ryan in regard to the passing of her parents, Carolyn Henrik and Greg Owens but have been unsuccessful at this time. She has listed you as her emergency contact, so if you do hear from her, please let her know that she is to contact me as soon as possible. Thank you.’

“Are you ok?” Guy said after he pocketed his phone and looked at Taron who was unmoving. He knew something was wrong and this confirmed his suspicions. He had to get to her now.

“She needs me.” Taron said as his body put itself on autopilot.

=

Sitting on the train, Nicola replayed the conversation she had with Brenna on the phone.

*Mini Flashback*

“Is everything ok Nic, you’ve not answered me at all.” Brenna asked. She wasn’t mad at all, she just wanted to make sure that her friend was ok after Nicola told her about the events of the premiere.

“I left early.” Nicola replied numbly.

Brenna’s brows furrowed.

“What happened?” Brenna questioned.

“My parents.” Nicola said.

Brenna could hear the silent tears in Nicola’s tone. She could sense that her friend was in more distress than she was letting on.

“Do you want to talk about it, or do you want me just to stay on the phone with you?” Brenna asked.

“Stay on the phone.” Nicola said, closing her exhausted eyes to stop the tears she felt building.

“Ok. I’m here when and if you are ready.” Brenna answered.

Nicola stayed on the phone with her friend for a while longer until she felt her tailbone screaming for relief.

Nicola stood up and went outside to hail a taxi to the train station.

“I’m staying on with you but if I randomly hang up on you, I’m getting in a taxi.” Nicola explained.

“Ok.” Brenna said, taking a drink of her coffee.

“Can I ask you something?” Nicola questioned and Brenna chuckled.

“You just did.” She replied, trying to make light of everything. It didn’t work.

“Bren.” Nicola simply said.

“Sorry. Go on.” Brenna responded, feeling bad.

Nicola bit her lower lip.

“How did you deal with the emotions when your father passed away?” Nicola asked, feeling her heart shatter all over again.

Brenna’s heart sank and she closed her eyes.

“Oh god Nic. When did it happen?” Brenna asked, putting two and two together.

“Last night while we were watching the movie.” Nicola told Brenna softly.

“Oh honey, I’m so sorry.” Brenna said.

They talked for a while longer before the taxi arrived.

*End of Mini Flashback*

Again, Nicola should have felt better after having told someone, but she didn’t, and she was beginning to wonder if she’d ever feel relief after talking about all of this.

=

While Taron was on the way to the airport, he googled to see what the cheapest flight back to London was. He needed to find the next available one but to his dismay, he couldn’t find any for the life of him.

He groaned to himself and called Lindsay to see if she had anymore luck on her end. Unsurprisingly, she was able to find exactly what he needed. She gave him the details and as soon as the car pulled up, Taron jumped out, grabbed his bags and ran to where his airline section was.

“Passport please.” The lady behind the desk asked.

Taron handed the id over and waited anxiously as she checked him in.

“Perfect. Just put your bag on here and we’ll be set.” She told him as she gave him the passport back and printed the necessary luggage tags.

“Look, I’m kind of in a rush so could you hurry up.” Taron said feeling his anxiety rise.

He really had no clue why it was rising but he knew Nicola and knew that she did irrational things when she was upset and/or had her walls up.

“I’m going as fast as I can, sir.” The lady replied firmly, not appreciating his tone.

Taron sighed and tapped his fingers on the counter they were resting on.

“Have a good flight.” The woman said as she finally passed him everything he needed.

Taron didn’t say anything, he just ran to where security was. He could only pray that nothing would hold him up any longer than necessary.

=

Being on planes made Taron uncomfortable at best. He hated being trapped in a tin can that could down at any time should it decide to. He hated the idea of feeling so small and invisible. He was someone who thrived on attention, even if he did hate the lime light at times.

He especially hated being trapped on a plane when someone he loved and cared about needed him.

While sitting in his seat, Taron’s knee kept bouncing up and down and no matter how many times he willed himself to stop, it kept doing it.

“Can I get you anything?” The young flight attendant asked, stopping at Taron with the bar cart.

Taron looked at him and gave him a tight-lipped smile.

“Rum and coke.” Taron replied, needing something to calm himself.

The flight attendant nodding his head and got to work making Taron’s drink. When he was done, he handed Taron the cup and went on his way.

Taron took a drink and allowed the liquid to fill his body and calm his brain. It worked a little bit, but it wasn’t by much.

“What’re you having?” An elderly gentleman asked Taron, making him jump.

As far as Taron could recall, no one was sitting next to him when he boarded the plane but then again he was in his head so maybe there was someone there and he didn’t notice till now.

“Rum and coke.” Taron replied cautiously.

“Sounds good. I’ll have what he’s having.” The man spoke. Taron looked at him and swore he had seen him before. He just couldn’t remember where.

“George is the name.” George said as he shook Taron’s hand.

“Taron.” Taron replied.

“Where are you headed?” George asked, taking a sip of his own drink.

“Home to Wales.” Taron answered simply, not wanting to give too much away. He didn’t know George at all; or at least that he could think of.

“Hmm, I love Wales. My wife loved it too.” George replied, closing his eyes as if remembering the good old days.

“Married my Edna there too.” George said, opening his eyes.

Taron smiled at him.

“That’s nice.” Taron replied.

He and George talked for a long while and it made Taron feel calmer. It was nice to have some company to help pass the time.

“This Nicola sounds like a Goodin.” George told Taron.

“It took me a while to see it but yes, she’s a very good one.” Taron answered, feeling his heart skip a beat at the thought of her.

“Make sure to hang on to that.” George warned.

“I intend to.” Taron told him as everyone disembarked the aircraft.

=

With the sun now setting and painting the sky in a beautiful mix of oranges and pinks, the birds chirped happily in the trees as the warm sea breeze rustled the leaves of the tree in Nicola’s front yard.

It was a beautiful sight but now being home and having the harsh reality slap her in the face, Nicola felt like an imposter. She felt like she didn’t belong here. She felt as though she was in a nightmare and no matter how hard she tried; nothing was waking her.

Nicola stood there looking over the grandeur that was the house. She remembered the first time that she and Jasmine saw it. They were both so excited for the new adventures that would be had in it. Little did Nicola know that a lot of momentous milestones would be reached there.

Tina realized that Nicola was pregnant in that house, Taron found out that he was going to be a father again in that house (even though it didn’t go the way Nicola had hoped), Luna was brought home to that house, Taron and Nicola had many ups and downs in that house, Luna had her first smile in this house. Everything was made in this house and now, Nicola was coming home to this house knowing that her mother was gone. That was it, there was no more hope of her mother coming to her asking for forgiveness, no more chance at having a proper relationship with her mother.

Nothing was ever going to be the same again and the thought of that made something in Nicola snap. She felt enraged, betrayed, disappointed, heartbroken, alone, invisible, small, like a child again discovering the cruelty the world held.

She hated feeling this way and she hated that she officially had more than the world placed on her shoulders and that she’d be facing all of this alone, or so she thought.

=

Driving at night was something that Taron loved doing, especially when it came to driving around Aber at night. People milled around laughing and chatting among themselves but the bar dwellers, they were easy to spot most of the time because they’d be stumbling around trying to walk straight. Some drunk people though had others escorting them out of the pubs and helping them into taxis so they could home safely.

The lights on the prom were enchantingly lit, giving off a romantic glow to the prom’s surroundings. In the distance, you could always hear the last little chirpings of the birds in far off trees as they settled in for the night. Not to mention the calming sea breeze that would pick up now and then, carrying the smell of the ocean as it flitted by. It was pure magic to Taron and one of the many reasons he loved Aber so much.

As the music in Taron’s car drifted through the spears of the radio system softly, Taron took a drink of his now cold coffee that he had made back at the London flat before he made the long journey home.

The entire way back to Wales, Taron’s mind was on Nicola and what had happened to her in the last few hours. His heart ached for the woman. He could remember when the Police knocked on his front door to tell him that Kate had passed. He recalled feeling like the wind had been sucked from his body while his mind went blank. His world stopped that day and faded into grey, as cliché as that may sound. It wasn’t until Nicola came into his life that he felt alive again, like his world had colour again, like his life had meaning again. All of this combined made him wonder how Nicola was holding up.

Taron got his answer when he took a little de tour past Nicolas house.

The first thing that caught his eye was the fact that the front door was wide open. It wasn’t like Nicola at all to do that. She was very particular about that, especially as she had two small children in her care. Seeing the door open made his insides sink. The next thing he noticed was the kitchen lamp that had been turned on, which casted light on a taller dark silhouette in the living room. At this time of night, he assumed Nicola would be in bed, so these two things were adding to his already heavy concerns.

Taron parked the car immediately and cautiously made his way to the front door; of course having his phone at the ready in case he needed to ring 999.

The closer Taron got to the house, the more that he could hear items being broken. When he got to the front door, he saw the house keys still in the lock. He walked in and took careful steps when he noticed Nicola’s carry-on bag and luggage laying vicariously on the floor in the foyer.

“Nicola.” Taron said softly, not wanting to draw any attention to himself in case this was in fact an emergency.

No answer came and Taron continued on to where he heard the smashing sounds coming from.

There he saw Nicola in the middle of the living room surrounded by bits of broken glass and various other materials of things that were once whole but now lied destroyed around her.

“What are you doing?” Taron asked incredulously as his eyes grew wide. Nicola was holding a glass vase above her head ready to throw it at the ground.

Nicola whipped around and instead of answering him, she angrily chucked it at him. Thankfully Taron ducked out of the way and the vase hit the wall behind him, shattering into a million tiny pieces.

“Nic, calm down.” Taron tried as he looked at her, holding his hands out in surrender.

Taron could see the darkness in her eyes and knew that she was far too in her emotional outburst to stop now. He knew very well that nothing was going to stop her, but he was damn well going to try.

His words did absolutely nothing to stop Nicola, in fact, they only spurred her on.

“FUCK YOU!” Nicola shouted louder than she ever had, continuing to throw things at him.

Taron had never seen her this upset, and they had had their fair share of arguments.

“I know that you’re upset but you need to stop before you hurt yourself.” Taron told her, moving closer to her to try and grab the last breakable thing in the living room.

Nicola didn’t reply to him and as he got closer, she felt her blood boil even more. Didn’t he care that she was hurting? Didn’t he know that this was helping her feel better? Didn’t he know that this was allowing her to release the pent-up rage she had collected over the years?

The woman didn’t hesitate in throwing the item in her hand at him.

Once that item was shattered, she looked around for more ammo, but she realized that she was out fragile things in the living room. Nicola forcefully wiped her tears away, growled and screamed, storming to the kitchen for more. Unfortunately for her, Taron was much faster this time and was able to get to her before she could destroy anything else.

Him blocking her way made her feel violent all of a sudden and it scared her. Sure she had strong feelings toward Taron, but she would never go as far as hitting him or hurting him physically, until now that is.

Nicola mustered all the strength she had left, balled her fists and started hitting Taron as hard as she could. She couldn’t explain why but hitting him felt so good. Hitting him was a long time coming.

Taron stood there and took it at first but then his chest started hurting from where she was brutally pounding him.

“Nicola, stop!” Taron said firmly as he grabbed her in the hopes that it would stop her. It didn’t work. It only made her flail her arms around as she tried to remove her hands from his grasp.

“Let me go!” Nicola shouted back as more tears fell.

“Not until you stop.” Taron told her, not realizing there was a fist heading straight for his jaw.

BANG!

Nicola got him square in the face.

Taron stumbled back a little bit as he held his jaw. He was part shocked, part impressed at her determination and part in pain.

“Jesus fuck woman!” Taron hollered at her.

Nicola stopped and looked at him as he pulled his hand away. She hadn’t meant to hit him in the face. He was just in the way. I mean after all; didn’t he know that you never stand in an angry woman’s way. Especially one that had just lost any chance of truly knowing her mother.

“I told you to let me go.” Nicola snapped.

Taron just looked at her, took a large breath and walked over to her.

“Put me down you idiot.” Nicola screeched as Taron wrapped his arm around her waist and picked her up, carrying her outside and to where his car was parked.

“Stay here.” Taron warned her and she knew he meant business. Part of her was grateful that he had come for her but part of her was still annoyed at him for ruining her tirade.

Nicola watched as Taron went back into the house, turned the light off, got her bags and locked the front door, concealing the mess at least for now.

“What are you doing?” Nicola asked when Taron opened the back door and threw her luggage inside.

“Get in the car.” He replied simply. Nicola did as she was told but she wasn’t thrilled about it.

When she was in the car, Taron made sure to lock the doors so that she could escape before he looked at her, his jaw throbbing something awful.

“We’re going back to mine.” He said. Nicola just turned her head and looked out her window, choosing to ignore him.

As they drove, she thought back to the last time she was in this seat. She and Taron had come home from Anglesea and fought about whose daughter Luna was. Nicola was adamant that Luna was hers but then again, so was Taron.

“You’re going to be fine.” Taron said, a lot softer this time.

Nicola did look at him, she couldn’t. Her heart hurt way too much, and she knew that if she looked at him, she’d break down and cry, even more than she already had been.

When she didn’t reply, Taron spoke up again.

“I know about what happened.” He said simply, letting his words hang in the air.

Nicola didn’t know what to say. If she was being honest, all she’d rather do is be in Taron’s arms as he held her close, this time without the punches she was giving him.

=

Once they got back to Taron’s, he told Nicola that she could clean up if she wanted to and offered for her to shower or take a bath if she really wanted while he made them some tea and took her bags to the guest room.

Nicola gave him a small smile and nodded as she went into the bathroom that Mikey mainly used.

She started her shower and instead of really cleaning herself up, she allowed the hot water to wash away all the anger she felt from before. She allowed the water to wash away all the tension she felt from the long journey home, and she allowed it to wash away all the anguished sobs that wracked her body.

From where Taron was in the kitchen, he could hear Nicola’s pain filled cries and wanted so badly to comfort her, but he knew better than that. He knew that everybody had their way of grieving and sometimes it was best to let the one in mourning be so that they could process their emotions in any way they needed to. Which reminded him that he needed to ice his jaw before bed.

=

By the time that Nicola had gotten out of the shower, her body ached, and her eyes were begging for a rest. Her stomach thought, that felt as though it could use food and lucky for her, Taron was in the kitchen putting some Oreos onto a plate for them to have before bed. Was it the healthiest? Not in the slightest but it was something comforting and nostalgic and right now they both needed that.

“Hey.” Nicola said quietly as she perched herself on a bar stool.

Taron looked at her and nodded. He wasn’t mad or upset, just extremely tired.

“Want some Oreos?” Taron offered, putting the plate off to the side of her but within easy reach. Nicola shook her head lightly.

“No.” Nicola said as she leaned forward and rested her head on the counter. She couldn’t keep it up any longer.

“Tired?” he asked her, knowing the answer already.

“Yeah.” Nicola replied as a yawn escape her lips.

“I’ll show you to your room.” Taron said, walking out of the kitchen and past Nicola.

“I don’t want to be alone.” Nicola told him, taking hold of his arm, looking at him with sadness and vulnerability. Taron felt his heart rate pick up.

He didn’t say anything to her, he simply let his fingers sip in between hers as he led her to his room.

=

Laying down in his bed, Nicola felt better knowing that she wasn’t by herself and that she was with the one she loved, even if she wasn’t ready to admit it just yet.

“You all good?” Taron asked he got in beside Nicola.

Nicola looked at him and took in how he looked. His eyes were tired and red, his hair was disheveled, and his face had slight covering of scruff while his attire was comfy and laid back. A simple old band shirt with a pair of sweatpants. He was the epitome of lazy but casual.

“I think so.” She replied as she itched the tip of her nose.

Taron looked at her and nodded.

“Good.” He replied as he turned over and turned off the light.

Nicola turned over so that her back was to him did her best to cocoon herself in his blankets, the smell of them lulling her into a sense of safety and security.

“Night Taron.” Nicola said as she closed her eyes.

He didn’t answer her though, he was trying to quietly go through his nightstand.

Nicola’s brows furrowed as she listened to what he was doing. When she heard the drawer shut, she turned so that she could kind of see him.

“What are you doing?” Nicola asked, scaring the shit out of Taron. So much so that he quickly hid the item he was looking for under the blankets.

“What? Nothing.” He replied a little to quickly. Nicola quired a brow at him.

“It wasn’t nothing Taron. What were you getting?” Nicola asked again.

Taron wasn’t budging in his answer. It remained adamant that he wasn’t doing anything.

“Ok fine. Have it your way.” Nicola said, beginning to turn back but as she was doing that, Taron pulled the item out of it’s hiding spot.

“What the hell is that?” Nicola asked, now sitting up and turning on her lamp.

Taron felt defeated.

“It’s my sleeping mask ok.” Taron replied, looking down at the ratty old thing.

“A sleeping mask?” Nicola asked with amusement evident in her voice.

“Yeah, alright. Poke fun all you want but it helps me.” Taron told her.

Nicola chuckled as she held her hands up.

“It’s so ratty.” Nicola said as she saw it clearly.

“If you’re going to keep this up, you can sleep in the guest room.” Taron said, feeling defensive.

“Taron relax, I’m only teasing you.” Nicola said as she smiled at him. He just looked at her with slight annoyance in his eyes.

“If it helps you, that’s good.” She told him honestly as she moved down, turned the lamp off again and cocooned herself in the blankets once more.

“That’s it? No other remark?” Taron asked, not believing that she was going to leave it there.

“Nope. Night.” Nicola replied, sleep now evident in her voice. Or at least that’s what Taron thought.

He remained skeptical but put his mask on anyway.

“Night.” He replied, slipping the material over his eyes and laying down.

=

After some time, Nicola was still wide awake and finding her brain off on one with all sorts of things. She tried to will herself to sleep but with each attempt made, it proved useless.

Eventually Nicola turned over so that she faced Taron in the hopes that the new potion would help but it wasn’t. Nothing she was trying was helping.

*End of Flashback*

Nicola flicked through the tv channels until she concluded that no show was helping her either, so with that realization, Nicola turned the tv off and went back to the kitchen to put her cup in the sink.

As she passed the counter, her eyes landed on a paper pad and a pen conveniently sitting in front of her eyes. Nicola grabbed them and went to sit at the dining table to write down everything that she was feeling.

=

Once she was finished writing everything down, she went back to Taron’s room and laid down next to him. She was facing him and as her eyes adjusted to the dark, she could make out the mark on his jaw where she had accidentally punched him.

She felt her eyes well up with tears again and before she knew what she was doing, she reached out for Taron and gently caressed the forming bruise. She let her fingers feel the stubble on his face, let them feel the warmth of his skin.

The more she did that, the more her heart burst into pieces all over again. She attempted to stop her crying but the more that she did that, the more she felt her body betray her. She felt the tears fall from her eyes and as they did, she leaned forward and hovered over Taron’s lips.

“I’m so sorry.” She whispered as she connected her lips with his in a small kiss.

What she didn’t know was that Taron was awake, he felt her come back to bed, he felt her caress his face and he felt the pain and anguish radiate from her body as she kissed him.

Nicola pulled away and sniffed.

Taron ripped his mask off and captured her lips with his again, pouring every ounce of love into it. He wanted to show her that it was ok, that she was safe and that he would do anything and everything to protect her. He wanted to show her that she was his whole world, besides the kids of course.

Nicola continued to let her tears fall as they kissed and held each other tightly, as though they were afraid that they’d be taken from one another.

Eventually they pulled apart as they desperately needed air. Nicola took this opportunity to look Taron in the eye.

“Make love to me.” Nicola whispered and Tarn just looked at her, unsure if she was being serious or not. He looked at her questioningly.

“Yes.” Nicola replied, pulling Taron close to her again, needing to feel him pressed against her.

Taron kissed her lips hungrily before slowly moving down to kiss her neck.

Nicola let her body give into the pleasure Taron was giving her. She allowed her mind to fully relax and to live in this moment. She let her fingers tangle themselves in Taron’s hair as the craving for him intensified.

She had forgotten just how much he set her body on fire with a passion she had never known before. With a desire to please him, with the desire to love him fully and completely.

Taron allowed his body to feel the same. He allowed his body to feel the gentle touches Nicola offered him as he kissed down her body, as he let his fingers trace every curve and dip of her body, as her moans filled the air in erotic ecstasy. As her melodic cries of pure euphoria hit him in the places of his body he forgot were there. As her body writhed and reacted to his touches. As she grasped the sheets beneath her as if trying to ground herself. As they became one. As they fell asleep in the arms of each other after the blissful sensuality of love making.

=

The next morning, the sun shone through the curtains as the sounds of the outside world roused her from her sleep. She felt like she was on cloud nine. She felt lighter and she felt happier but the thought of having to talk things through with Taron terrified her. She didn’t know how the conversation was going to go but with her feelings written down, she decided to hope for the absolute best.

“Morning.” Taron greeted as he emerged from the bathroom.

Nicola turned to face him and took in the water droplets that sat on his skin and clung to his chest hair. She took in how sexy he looked as he walked over to his closet. How tempting he looked with the towel hung that low on his hips, giving her a little peek at the hair that traveled down from his navel and sat neatly groomed around his penis.

“Fuck.” Nicola muttered to herself, but Taron heard it and grew intrigued.

“You ok?” Taron asked, walking out of the closet now dressed in a long-sleeved shirt, which had it’s sleeves pushed half way up his arms, and shorts.

Sat down next to her and brushed strands of her hair away from her face while smiling down at her warmly.

“I’m ok baby.” Nicola replied warily, almost scared of his reaction.

Her words warmed his heart and set off more butterflies within his belly. Taron leaned down and kissed her lips tenderly, humming at the contact of their mouths.

“You sure?” He asked genuinely.

Nicola’s cheeks reddened as she tried to move again, feeling the same stiffness pull at her muscles.

“Sore.” She replied, feeling coy all of a sudden.

“Shall I carry you downstairs and we can talk?” Taron offered, making Nicola chuckle.

She lifted her arms toward him and allowed him to carry her but not before she asked him to get the folded piece of paper she had written on the night before.

With the paper now securely between her teeth, Taron gently picked her up and carried her to the sofa, gently her placed her on it, making sure she was comfortable and went to make them some tea.

=

Sitting on the sofa, Nicola realized that she was in the spot she was in the first time she entered this house and what led to it.

*Mini Flashback*

Taron got his son settled in his car seat before getting in the car himself and heading in the direction of the park.

Unfortunately for him, he saw 'the woman' sitting at a picnic table keeping an eye on Jasmine.

"Right, go play." Taron said to Mikey as he took him out of his car seat and set him down on the ground.

Mikey ran off and started playing.

Taron locked the car and took a deep breath.

"What the hell are you doing here?" Nicola snapped harshly when she saw who was approaching.

"It's none of your damn business." Taron spat back.

"Well if your moody ass is going to be here then yes, it is my business." Nicola sassed.

Taron scoffed and sat down on the same seat as she and removed his sunglasses.

Nicola glanced at him and really took him in. He wasn't bad looking, he had nice eyes and a sharp jaw. He was pretty cute.

"Take a fucking picture." Taron seethed, making Nicola jump.

"Excuse me?" She questioned.

"Stop staring." Taron said, locking eyes with her.

Nicola swallowed harshly. His eyes had turned an almost black shade and he looked like he was thirsty for blood.

"Staring and trying to figure someone out are two very different things." Nicola replied with a raised brow.

"And what exactly are you trying to figure out?" He said dangerously low.

"What an asshole like you gets out of hanging around parks like this. I'll call the police you know." She said, not realizing that he had come here with Mikey.

"You're a bitch, you know that." Taron countered before turning to look at Mikey, who was happily playing with Jasmine.

"Yup, definitely a Taz." Nicola smirked.

Taron's heart stopped. No one besides Kate had called him that, not even his mum. Only Kate was allowed to call him that.

"Shut the fuck up." The man said, slamming his fists on the table.

"Since I met you, all you've done is piss me off. You've insulted me and I think it's my turn to insult you. Why is a woman like you in a park like this anyway? Is it because no one wants a self centered, condescending slag like you? You feel better surrounding yourself with others like you? Or is it because no one wants to get between those legs, and this is where you come to sulk to yourself about it?" Taron said, eerily calm.

This didn't phase Nicola in the slightest as all she was focused on were his lips, which is funny because normally she'd slap the shit out of him but there was just something about him that spoke to her.

Before she could think of what she was doing, her hand went to the back of his neck and she pulled him forward, crashing her lips onto Taron's.

His lips were soft, and the kiss was magical but for Taron, he felt awful. How could something feel so right and so wrong at the same time?

Meanwhile from the top of the play fort, Mikey watched as the two adults kissed.

The little boy crouched down so that he was hidden and started crying.

"What's wrong?" Jasmine asked as she finally looked up from her rock collection.

"I hate my dad." Mikey whimpered.

Jasmine looked toward Taron, covered her mouth and started giggling.

"They're kissing." She said through her giggles.

Mikey hid his face, making Jasmin stop giggling.

The little girl attempted to hug her friend, but Mikey got up and ran over to his father.

"Mikey stop!" Jasmin called but Mikey wasn't listening.

Mikey quickly reached his father.

"That's my daddy!" Mikey shouted as he pushed Nicola away from Taron.

Despite the fact that Taron had massively hurt his son, Mikey wasn't willing to share Taron just yet.

Nicola looked at the man she'd just kissed and saw the hurt, confusion and sadness in his eyes.

Taron sat frozen in place as Mikey climbed up into his father's lap.

Absentmindedly, Taron wrapped his right arm around his son and held him protectively.

"Mine." Mikey said as he wrapped his small arms around Taron's neck and glared daggers at the woman.

It was evident to Nicola that Mikey was definitely this man's son and that she had just made a huge mistake.

Her cheeks went bright red, and she bit her lower lip in embarrassment.

Taron finally rejoined reality and realized what had just happened.

"Kate." He whispered as he touched his lips with his left hand, displaying the fact that he was wearing a ring.

Nicola's eyes landed on the gold band on his ring finger, and she sucked in a breath. Of course he was married, and she'd just kissed a married man. Fuck!

The next day, Nicola was sitting in her car trying to think of what to get Taron as an apology for treating him so poorly.

"What do I get for him!" Nicola groaned out loud.

"KFC's always a good choice." Kate said from the backseat.

Nicola hit her steering wheel a couple times before agreeing with her inner voice and went to KFC.

"At a girl." Kate praised with a wide smile.

It didn't take Nicola long to get everything she needed for the apology but then it dawned on her, where in the actual hell did this man live?

Just as she stepped out of the food place, two women walked past her talking about a house with blossoming rain lilies out front.

"They were always my favorite." Kate replied.

Nicola smiled to herself. She remembered driving past that house once as she took a shortcut to work one morning.

"He's not long home but he'd appreciate the chicken. Save him from almost burning the house down again." Kate giggled.

Because there was hardly any traffic, Nicola made it to the house quicker than she thought she would.

"Here goes nothing." She said as she set the food down and knocked on the door.

Nicola took a step back and waited for an answer.

"Can I-" Taron began before realizing that no one was there.

As he went to close the door, a gentle breeze picked up and rustled the plastic bag.

Taron looked down and saw the take away bag.

He smiled to himself as he bent down to grab the food.

"Thanks mam." Taron said, loud enough for Nicola to hear.

She coyly stepped forward and Taron's smile immediately fell from his face.

"Before you say anything, please hear me out?" She asked, nervously fiddling with her fingers.

Taron could hear the genuine tone in her voice.

"I was making tea." He replied.

Nicola shrugged.

"No, it's ok. I don't want to interrupt. I just wanted to drop that off as an apology for how I've treated you." The woman responded.

Taron nodded friendly.

"Come in." He said, standing to the side.

The woman slowly walked into the house and stood in the entryway awkwardly. "Ok." She said.

"Can I take your jacket?" Taron asked as he came back from the kitchen.

"Yeah s-sure." Nicola stuttered.

Taron hung up her jacket and led her to the living room.

"I'll be back with the tea." He said.

Nicola smiled in response.

"Take a seat, I'll only be a minute." He continued before walking away.

Sitting down, Nicola felt nervous and on edge, not knowing what his response would be to what she had to say.

She wanted to offer her help but with not knowing his name and knowing that the name Taz pissed him off, Nicola decided it was best if she just stayed quiet and tried to get her thoughts in order before he came back.

"Thank you for being willing to hear me out. I really do appreciate it." Nicola said as Taron placed the tray of tea down on the coffee table.

He gave Nicola a tight-lipped smile.

"Be strong Nicola, you've got this." Kate whispered as she watched from the other end of the room.

"How do you take your tea?" Taron asked as he doctored up his own cup.

"Same as you." She said with a smile.

When he was done making up her tea, he passed her a cup and sat down.

"So, the real reason I came here was to hopefully start over." Nicola admitted.

"Go on." Taron said, waiting for her to continue.

"Can I be honest with you?" Nicola questioned.

Taron shrugged defensively.

"You were right, I have been a bitch but-" She began before Taron rolled his eyes.

"There's always an excuse, isn't there?" He sassed.

Nicola looked down and bit her lower lip.

"I know there isn't a reason for you to believe anything I say, but I'm trying to explain myself. I know that I was awful." Nicola replied, looking up at him.

"The first time I met you, I had literally just been granted custody of my little sister and it was a really rough morning. I was annoyed and I took that anger out on you." She explained.

Taron quirked his brow.

"And that's the truth is it?" He replied.

Nicola lightly scoffed.

"Why would I lie, I'm not like that." She answered.

"When I was 3, my grandparents were granted custody of me because my mother was and still is a drug addict and would sleep around almost all the time. It got so bad, and she'd leave me on my own for long periods of time." She explained, running the tip of her thumb around the rim of the cup.

Watching her, it became clear that she was being truthful. Taron still remained defensive but respected her for opening up to him.

"When I heard that my mother was doing that again to my little sister, I knew I had to give Jasmine a chance at a better life but to do that I had to move from my one-bedroom flat to a two bedroom and then had to fight my mother on everything." She finished.

Taron closed his eyes and sighed.

"I'm sorry." He said.

"I know I've acted like a bitch but I'm really not. I know I've been awful to you and there is no excuse for that. I guess I just wanted you to know that I'm a nice person under all of that." She explained.

Taron nodded.

"And I know that the way that I handled our last meeting wasn't right and I feel so guilty. I had no idea that you were married and had I been in my right mind, I would have just slapped you and walked away." She chuckled slightly.

"I'm not married." He said, shocking himself as well.

"But you're wearing a ring." Nicola pointed out.

"I mean I was married but not anymore. She died." Taron answered.

"Shit, I feel even worse now." Nicola said.

Taron surprised himself by laying a hand on top of Nicola's.

"Please don't feel bad. To be honest, you calling me Taz took me by surprise. My wife used to call me that and I hadn't expected to hear anyone else use the name." He explained.

"Right, I get you. I'll make sure I don't do it again. Sorry." She promised.

"Don't be sorry. You couldn't have known." Taron replied, slightly warming to her.

Before either of them could say anything else, Pickles took his chance and climbed up Taron's leg.

"Hello you." Taron greeted, scooping up and petting the furball.

"Who's this cutie?" Nicola asked.

"This is Pickles." Taron introduced.

Nicola giggled.

"Pickles. Cute name." She said.

"My son picked the name." Taron stated.

"Does he like pickles?" Nicola questioned.

"His favorite tv show is the Rugrats." The man said with amusement

"Let me guess, he likes someone from the pickles family?" Nicola wondered out loud.

"Yeah, Stu apparently reminds him of me." Taron answered sadly.

"You can say no but you look like you could use a hug." Nicola noted carefully, really not wanting to undo her apology and make him feel uncomfortable again.

"How about we just start with names." Taron replied, not feeling quite ready for any kind of intimacy from another woman.

Nicola smiled.

"Sounds good. I'm Nicola." She said warmly.

"Taron." He replied.

"Nice to meet you Taron." Nicola said.

"Nice job Pickles. You're a good ice breaker." Kate said as the feline walked past her and toward his food bowl.

*End of Mini Flashback*

“Where’d you go?” Taron asked as he walked into the living room holding the same tray he did when they first talked properly.

“I was thinking about the first time I sat in this spot.” Nicola said as she watched Taron make up her tea. She smiled to herself.

“I brought you KFC.” Nicola said, looking around at the décor Taron had up.

She saw that Luna’s picture still sat up next to the one Taron had of Mikey and Kate when Mikey was freshly born.

“I remember.” Taron told her as he passed her a cup.

“Thank you.” She said, taking a sip.

“You’re welcome.” Taron replied, sitting on the ground by Nicola’s feet.

Nicola looked at him questioningly.

“Why are you down there?” Nicola asked and Taron shrugged at her, keeping his reasoning to himself for now.

Nicola ran her thumb around the rim of the cup just as she did at least a year prior.

“It was the first time I met Pickles too.” Nicola mused, looking at the coffee table where the letter sat.

“He took a real shine to you.” Taron added, making nod in agreement.

“Taron?” Nicola voiced, looking down at him.

“Yes?” He replied, keeping his eyes locked on hers.

“This is for you.” Nicola said as she reached for the paper and passed it to him.

Taron placed his mug down and took the folded paper from her.

“What is it?” He wondered out loud.

Nicola bit her lower lip in anticipation.

“I couldn’t sleep last night so I came down here for tea and to watch tv, but it didn’t work. When I was coming back from the kitchen, I saw the pen and aper pad you had on the counter.” Nicola explained.

“What is it though?” He asked. He could probably guess but he wanted to her it from her.

“It’s a letter. I thought it’d be better if you read what I wanted to say to you. That way we don’t fight, and I can get all my words out the way I want to.” Nicola explained further.

Taron nodded and proceeded to open it.

‘Dear Taron,

You are asleep right now and seem to be sleeping deeply which I’m glad for, but I can’t sleep. My mind feels so clouded and heavy with everything that has happened between us as well as things that have happened in the past few hours. I know that we have had our fair share of ups and downs but for right now, I don’t want to talk about that. I’d rather talk about is my past, if that’s ok.

You already know that my grandparents got full custody of me when I was 3 because my mother left me home alone for long periods of time while she was off on benders but what I didn’t tell you was that my grandparents actually adopted me. It was so hard for them to see their only daughter constantly abusing her body with drugs, alcohol and various other harmful acts but it pained them even more to see their very young granddaughter ignored by the one person she should have been able to rely on.

Things with them were fantastic. I had them all to myself and they gave me a safe place to be. A safe place to grow up. Unfortunately, my grandmother got sick and sadly passed away. I was only 6. It was very sad but somehow grandpa and I handled it well. We decided that we were going to move out of London for a fresh start but then my mother got herself into some trouble with the law and it took a toll on my grandpa. So much so, he ended up committing suicide. I had no idea how bad his depression had gotten and to this day, part of me wishes that I would have paid more attention to that rather than chasing my friends around London and getting into all sorts of shit. Shit I never want either of the kids getting into.

Anyway, it wasn’t long after he passed that I learned that my mother was pregnant with Jasmine. When I heard that, I got angry. I felt like she had let me down so much, ignored me for way too long that I didn’t care. She tried to reach out, but I was having non of it. I refused to get tangled up with her.

That went on for a while but then when one of my friends, who works with addicts, caught wind that Jasmine was going through the same shit I was, I knew that I had to do something. I felt like I needed to protect her from the evil that was my mother’s world. From there, we moved to Aber, I officially got custody of her, met you and as they say, the rest is history.

The rest is history….

That’s such a weird thing to say, especially now.

What pains me even more than my past etc. is knowing that my mother is history. That my chances of having my mother come to me apologizing for everything she’s put me and Jasmine through is history. The chances of Luna knowing her grandmother is history. My chances of having a proper mother is history.

The one thing I know for certain is that I don’t want us to be history. I want us to be the future. I want us to raise the kids to be strong, brave and courageous individuals who see that world for all wonders it holds.

I want us….’

Taron folded the paper back up and looked at Nicola who had tears in her eyes. He could tell that she was nervous, and he could see that at any moment she was going to cry, whether from relief or from grief, he didn’t know. The one thing he was certain of though, Nicola required reassurance.

Taron got up onto his knees in front of Nicola, took her face between his hands gently and tenderly kissed her lips before pulling her into hug.

“I want us too.” He breathed into her ear.

Nicola chuckled with relief, bursting into tears. Finally able to let her walls come tumbling down, never again to keep them apart for as long as they both shall live……

 ===

Tag List:

@geo-winchester

 @elizami11s

 @stilessbaseballbat

[burgers-and-french-fries]

Taking Chances: Chapter Forty Eight.

Note: It is crazy late and I just finished this chapter. I was going to edit it but I have decided against it because I’m too tired and have no energy to do so. So with that being said, just keep in mind that there are so many mistakes in this. Not only that but this chapter is so long because I want the Cannes stuff done and over with so I can move on to finishing the story.

I hope that you enjoy!

===

Outfit mood boards recap:

===

Big events were never Nicola’s thing. She never really got the point of making a spectacle of yourself and as a shy person, Nicola was happiest when she was at home where she could be herself and do what she wanted without people seeing and judging her for the things that she did. 

This is why she really admired celebs like Taron. Sure he could be the biggest asshole known to man but he could be genuine when he wanted to be and it was in those moments that Nicola could see just how truly challenging and invasive the industry could be. It took people away from their families and had to be prioritized above all else. 

Being here in Cannes was showing her that. It was a side to the industry that she never thought she’d see. It was a side that she was beginning to loathe.

Sitting in front of the mirror, Nicola looked herself over and immediately felt her inner voice speak up. She hated when it did because it never said anything helpful or nice. It clouded her confidence and made her self-esteem plummet so low that she was surprised she had enough energy to fight with people, namely Taron. If she was being honest, she felt stuck. 

She knew that she had responsibilities but sometimes things got to be too much and she just wanted out. She wanted to start fresh and leave her crumby life behind. Was she asking too much of the world when she begged for a break? She didn’t think so.

“I look awful.” Nicola sighed, talking to no one in particular.

Jasmine heard this and looked up from her sister’s phone which she had been using as a gaming device while Nicola got herself ready for tonight.

“No you don’t.” Jasmine said matter of factly, smiling at Nicola through the mirror, hoping that it would cheer her up. It didn’t, in fact it only made Nicola feel worse about herself.

“I feel like I don’t belong here.” Nicola admitted, feeling the tears well up in her eyes. 

Jasmine placed the phone down on the bed and quickly hurried to her sister where she catapulted herself onto Nicola, giving her the biggest hug she could muster, knowing that a hug was very much needed.

Nicola wrapped her arms around the child and held her close as she cried and most definitely ruined the makeup she had worked so hard on.

“Don’t give up Lina.” Jasmine muttered and cuddled even closer to Nicola if that was even possible.

“Maybe we should just go home.” Nicola said through her tears.

Jasmine leaned back and looked into Nicola’s tearful eyes, shaking her head in disagreement.

“I want to show Mikey my dress though.” Jasmine said with a hint of sadness evident in her voice.

“This isn’t our world Jazz, this isn’t who we are.” Nicola replied, trying to get her point across.

Jasmine knew that Nicola didn’t want to be here but she also knew that deep down, Nicola was sad and needed something to be happy about. She needed someone in her life that made her feel as loved as Nicola made her and Luna feel. She wanted her sister to live the life she so desperately wanted and had earned. She wanted her sister to see how amazing she was. Sure she was only five but she knew when someone was sad and she could see that in both taron and Nicola. Heck, Mikey could even see it and who knew, made even Luna could tell.

“Why did you say yes then?” Jasmine asked.

Nicola had no answer to that. She hadn’t thought that far. Maybe it was out of pity for Taron or maybe, just maybe it was because she still loved Taron and wanted to support him at this time.

“You can go but I’d rather stay here.” Nicola said, knowing full well that it wouldn’t make sense to have come all this way and only have Jasmine and Luna be with Taron and everyone.

“Taron would be sad.” Jasmine said, knowing that this would get her sister fired up. 

She had heard Nicola say over and over again how she hopes that Taron is wallowing in misery and feels guilty for how he treated her. Quite frankly, it annoyed her because didn’t Nicola know that she had done mean things to Taron too?

Nicola locked eyes with her sister and scowled slightly.

“No way in hell does that man get to be the sad one.” Nicola said with a sassiness to her tone.

Jasmine hated to say it but she was glad Nicola didn’t appear sad anymore because it was getting old.

“Help me fix my makeup.” Nicola said as Jasmine hopped off her sister’s lap.

Luna, having heard the new tone in her mother’s voice, decided that now was the time to pipe up and add her two cents in the form of doing everything possible to make her mother and aunt late to meet up with everyone else.

=

Now that everyone had been placed in the cars and were headed to the venue, Nicola sat in silence next to Tina. She watched as the buildings whizzed by in a blur. Was this what her life was like? Was it all just some car ride in which all aspects of your whizz by in an unrecognizable blur?

“You’re awfully quiet. What’s on your mind?” Tina asked softly as to not startle the other woman.

“What the hell am I doing here Tina?” Nicola asked as she continued to look out the window.

“I’m not sure what you mean, lovie.” Tina replied.

“I don’t fit in anywhere, least of all here.” Nicola said, now looking at her hands and the intricate designs that sat on her nails. “Maybe I should just leave and let you all enjoy the night.” Nicola concluded as the building came into view.

“I know this atmosphere can be scary and intimidating but I promise you that you are with the best group of people. You are safe and you are loved and yes, that means you do fit in. You’re one of us and we will always be there for you and for the girls as well. You aren’t alone in this and by god if I stand by and let that child of mine chase you away. I’ll get rid of him before I get rid of you.” Tina told Nicola truthfully, earning a slight smile from the woman.

“You really mean that don’t you?” Nicola asked.

Tina nodded.

“I know that we have some major differences in the past and I know that you and Taron have been through alot but at the end of the day and whether you see it or not, you are part of our family and moving forward, you are never to feel alone again. If you do, you call me and whisk you away for a little bit for some girl time.” Tina replied.

“It doesn’t make me feel 100% better but it makes me feel more confident knowing you’re in my corner.” Nicola said.

“Even if my stubborn streak rears its ugly head, I only have you and Taron’s best interest at heart. Now, with that said, you stick with me tonight and I’ll look after you.” Tina said as the car came to a complete stop.

Nicola smiled. It was true, she didn’t feel 100% better but it was a step in the right direction. 

=

Flashing lights, screaming fans, people being pulled in all directions, people asking for interviews and celebrities of all kinds milling about was super exciting to see but Nicola could sense the nerves emanating from Taron. She could see the fear etched onto his face and she could see in his eyes that he wanted the ground to swallow him whole.

She had never seen that on him before and if she was being honest, it kind of made her glad. It made her glad that he was going through those feelings because maybe, just maybe it would give him an idea of what she felt when she was around him.

“You ok?” Jasmine asked as she looked at her sister.

Nicola shrugged and took hold of Jasmine’s hand as she kept an eye on Taron who was holding a very curious Luna. The little one made sure to smile at her father whenever he locked eyes with her.

“I can’t wait for this to be over.” Nicola said and Tina heard this. She knew how Nicola was feeling.

“It’s insane. Crazier than I’ve ever seen.” Tina said.

“What actually happens?” Nicola asked.

“Basically, once we get to where the person with the clipboard is, Taron will join his cast mates and walk the carpet while we watch on. Then we will be directed inside while the kids will go with the nanny so that we can watch the movie.” Tina explained.

“Oh, so we don’t actually do anything?” Nicola asked, clarifying.

“Nope, just stand there and watch him.” Tina replied, rubbing Nicola’s back as Mikey came over to them and stood beside Jasmine.

Just then, Taron came over to them and handed Luna over to her mother. 

“Thanks.” Nicola said just loud enough for Taron to hear.

He smiled at her and rushed off to join the others. Nicola couldn’t help herself and let a smile play at her lips.

=

As the Rocketman cast made their way up the carpet, stopping for pictures on the way, Nicola watched on with pride for Taron. 

Nicola knew that Taron had worked hard for this movie but she also knew everything that had gone behind the scenes of making this movie. It made her think back to the moment that she found out she was pregnant with Luna. It was the day that Taron told her he was leaving to film the movie. She remembered how heartbroken she had been when he had dismissed her and the baby too.

She also remembered the first time she found out that Taron was dating Natascha and how sick she felt looking at the model. She remembered the feeling of jealousy pass over her and how it made her feel like Taron was just using her to get himself off. It made her feel like a piece of meat rather than someone he actually saw himself with.

She remembered meeting Natascha for the first time and how awful she was. She remembered seeing the look of disgust in Taron’s eyes and the look of hurt in Mikey’s eyes. Of course she then found out about Natascha and what she was doing to the father and son and that made Nicola’s hatred for the model skyrocket. How could anyone be so cruel?

Most of all, she remembered the look of anger in Taron’s eyes when he found out that Nicola was pregnant. She had never seen him so angry and it scared her. She remembered crying herself to sleep after he left the house with Jasmine’s overnight bag. She remembered feeling the rejection when Taron accused her of cheating on him when they were together.

She remembered everything tha had led up to this moment and to be standing here now watching this man debut his new movie was something else. Whether good or bad, she hadn’t made up her mind about that yet.

From where Taron stood at the top of the steps, he set his sight on Nicola and how angelic, no, how ethereal she looked in the light. She literally took his breath away when she emerged from the elevator and he wanted nothing more than to take her in his arms and show her how much she meant to him. He knew that wouldn’t solve anything though so with all the strength he could muster, he refrained as much as possible.

He watched on as the photographers took the images they needed and as he caught his mother’s, Nicola’s and his kids’ eyes, he brought his fist up to his chest, pointed to them and mouthed ‘I love you to’ them.

“I think that was meant for you.” Bleddyn said, looking at Nicola over his shoulder. Sure he liked Nicola but it was evident to him that Taron was so in love with her and if he was being transparent, he’d venture to say that Taron’s love for Nicola was more intense and passionate than it was when Taron was with Kate. Sure Taron loved Kate with all of his being but there was just something about Taron and Nicola that seemed out of this world. Almost like someone up in heaven was playing matchmaker.

“I doubt that.” Nicola replied, adjusting Luna on her hip so that she could give her a kiss and a hug before handing her and the other two kids off to the nanny.

=

Sitting in such a lavish building truly made Nicola feel like a fish out of water. If she felt like she didn’t belong before, she had no idea what to think now. Especially being in the same room as all the celebrities she had seen on tv and of course in movies. 

Growing up, she used to stay up with her grandmother and watch all the awards shows she could, her favorite being the golden globes. Then when she got older, she lost interest in it as she just felt bad for everyone as they were pushed and shoved in directions with various people in their faces constantly. She really had no idea how people could put up with all of that ridiculousness. But it was part of the job she supposed.

Of course now being here and being up close and personal, it was more of a mad house than she expected. It made her wonder what was going through everybody's minds.

Nicola took a deep breath and continued looking around before the movie got started and like with everything, her brain decided to remind her at the last minute that she promised Jasmine that she’d take pictures of the inside structures as Jasmine was sad that she, Mikey and Luna weren’t allowed in there.

“Fuck.” Nicola whispered as she dug through her bag. She was sure she put her phone in there.

“Everything alright?” A husky London brogue asked, as he turned to face Nicola in his seat.

Nicola paused and looked up to find Dexter Fletcher looking at her with concern. She wanted to pass out. Instead, she offered him a warm smile and nodded at him.

“Yup, all good. Thanks.” She replied. 

At this Taron’s ears perked up and he turned to face her.

“What’s the matter?” He asked.

“I lost my phone.” She told him.

“What do you need it for?” He asked.

“I told Jazzy I’d take a picture of the inside of the building. She was sad she didn’t get to come inside.” She explained. Taron nodded and dug in his pocket.

“I’ll take a couple afterwards and send them to you when we’ve found your phone.” He told her just as the lights went down.

Nicola didn’t reply but she did pat his shoulder in thanks. Taron smiled to himself and glanced at Dexter who smirked back at Taron.

=

From the moment that Nicola found out what Taron for a job, she knew that he must have been pretty good at what he did as he had quite a following online. Of course she knew that most of his fans were teens who had crushes on him and she couldn’t blame them, he was extremely sexy but when she took the time to watch one of his films, she understood why people liked him so much.

His range was incredible. He had a talent for making you feel every emotion, no matter the scene.

She remembered the incredible pull she felt as she watched him in the makeshift hospital in testament of youth. She remembered feeling so sad that her heart hurt. What made that moment even more memorable for her was the fact that she and Taron officially started texting for the first time. Hell she even remembered how he thought it was funny when she started crying as his character was discovered to be dead. 

As she sat here now watching Taron portray such heart-wrenching and soul gutting scenes, she couldn’t help but wonder if he was channeling some emotions from his actual life into them. She knew that he had a not so good relationship with his father and she of course knew about him losing Kate and having to raise Mikey on his own but it was more than that, she wondered if their very rocky relationship added to the pain. The thought of that made her feel guilty.

Maybe it wasn’t just him that was the problem in all of this turmoil. Maybe just like he made her feel like she had to guard her heart, she did the same for him. Maybe that’s why they would get along one minute and the next be at each other creating more distance between themselves.

Nicola was about to let her mind wander even more but when her eyes landed on his gold bomber jacket clad body, she gasped, just loud enough for Taron to hear. He turned to look at her over his shoulder and even though it was dark, he could just make out the pink tinge on her cheeks. He knew exactly what she was thinking.

He too thought back to the night she sent him that rather flirty text message all those months ago. He thought of that text often, making him wonder what she was thinking and what she hoped would happen since they happened to be not speaking at that point.

Taron smirked at Nicola and sent her a little wink and for a reason unknown to her, she smirked back at him. He turned his attention back to the screen after that as did she.

=

Once the movie was done and the credits were rolling, everyone in the building stood and clapped for the cast. They were thrilled with how profound the movie was. They too felt the power it held and how well it was made.

Nicola was one of the many standing for the cast and she felt an overwhelming sense of relief for Taron but also too, she felt something she couldn’t describe. All she knew was that she wanted to hug him tight and tell him how amazing he was and as if reading her mind, Taron looked over at her. She smiled and motioned for him to come closer to her.

She threw her arms around his neck and kissed his cheek.

“I’m so proud of you.” She told him, genuinely meaning it.

Taron smiled.

“Thank you Nic.” He replied, feeling safe enough to call her that.

Taron pulled from the hug and Nicola smiled at him. Fuck she loved this man and she knew it was time to come clean to not only herself but to him too.

Tina saw their interaction and smiled at her husband. She had full faith that the pair would work everything out and she hoped very much that this would be the place to do it and then travel back home with a clean slate.

“Oh my god honey, you were incredible.” Tina gushed as Taron came walking toward her with tears running down his face.

“Thank you mam.” He said, enveloping her in a hug. One her really needed.

“You’re welcome.” She said as they pulled apart and made their way out of the building to go and celebrate with everyone.

=

With the party in full swing, everyone was drinking, talking, laughing, singing and dancing. It was such a buzz but as Nicola looked around, she began to feel like a fish out of water once more.

“You look like you could use this.” Richard said as he handed Nicola a drink. She smiled but declined.

“I can’t drink.” She told him. 

“It’s non alcoholic.” He said. He had made sure it was.

“Thanks.” She replied, knocking it back.

“I must say, you look stunning.” Richard complimented.

“Thanks. I’m glad one of you noticed.” She commented, sounding harsher than she meant to.

“He hasn’t said anything?” He asked, looking over at Taron who was talking and schmoozing with other actors.

“Not a thing. All he did was stare at me.” Nicola answered.

“You probably took his breath away.” He said, making Nicola scoff playfully.

“Yeah, ok Rich.” Nicola said as they made their way to the bar for another drink.

“So, tell me, how are the kids?” Richard asked, leaning against a tree.

“Kids are good. Upset they couldn’t join in but good.” Nicola replied, wondering what the kids were up to at this very moment.

“Hello you two.” Elton greeted as he stood beside Richard.

“Hi.” Nicola and Richard greeted in unison.

Elton smiled.

“What a night.” Elton said as he looked around at the turn out.

“I agree.” Richard said, still feeling the buzz.

“Tell me, what did you think of the movie Nicola?” Elton asked, turning his gaze onto the young woman.

Nicola tried not to act shy but unfortunately failed. She shrugged, unsure of what to say.

“I bet she liked the sex scene.” Richard muttered, taking a sip of his drink. 

Nicola blushed at his words and Elton laughed.

“What’s so funny?” Dexter asked as he and his wife joined in on the conversation.

“Just teasing Nicola.” Richard replied, unaware that Nicola felt uncomfortable.

Taron, who was still schmoozing with other people, heard Elton’s laugh above all the noise and looked in that direction. When he saw that Nicola was with him and Richard, he excused himself and made his way over to where they all stood before he got stopped by someone wanting to talk to him. He made sure to keep an eye on Nicola though.

“Well, I’d love to stay and chat but I should go and find Taron. I want to get back to the kids.” Nicola said, hoping they’d accept the excuse. They didn’t.

“You can’t go yet, Taron and Elton have something up their sleeve.” Richard said and Nicola’s face dropped. She knew she had no reason to be nervous but with Taron’s rash declarations of love, she was afraid that this was yet another attempt at that.

“What are you all gabbing about?” Taron asked, finally able to get away.

“Can I talk to you?” Nicola asked just above a whisper in Taron’s ear. Taron looked at her and smiled in agreement. He wanted to talk to her too.

Taron made the excuses and led Nicola to a secluded part of the beach away from the noise and mass crowds.

“What’s up?” He asked when they were far enough away.

“You’re not going to make another rash declaration of love are you?” Nicola asked, letting the worry and fear seep into her voice.

Taron’s heart dropped at that. He didn’t know that she felt that way about his attempts at telling her that he loves her.

“I’m not going to pretend that that didn’t just hurt.” Taron commented, instantly getting Nicola’s back up.

“Oh come on, don’t play the victim.” Nicola snapped.

Taron raised his brow at her and bowed his head, letting a sarcastic laugh fall from his lips.

“Wow. You know, after our talk this afternoon, I thought we were past all of this.” He stated.

“You’re right, I’m sorry. I just- when Richard said that you and Elton had something up your sleeves for tonight, I got scared that you were going to do something and profess your love to me again.” Nicola explained.

“Well first of all, he shouldn’t’ve said anything as it was a surprise and second of all, I know that I screwed up by giving you the necklace and after that, I promised mama, I wouldn’t do anything like that again.” Taron responded.

Nicola nodded and looked down at her feet whilst taron looked at his watch and saw the time.

“Look, I desperately want to talk everything through with you but right now isn’t the time, so can we put a pin in it for right now?” Taron asked.

Nicola looked at him and shrugged, feeling disappointed.

“I think that might be best…That we talk about everything I mean. Maybe when we get back?” Nicola asked, hopeful.

“I’d like that.” Taron said, giving her a warm smile.

“Me too.” She replied.

“Right, let’s get back. I think you’re going to like this.” Taron said as he took Nicola’s hand and led her to where everyone was gathering around a stage.

=

The next morning as Nicola laid awake in her bed, she thought back to watching Taron perform with Elton. Watching them together was like watching magic unfold before your very eyes for the first time. It was thrilling and exciting. It was something that Nicola would never forget, especially when Taron pulled her aside afterwards and asked her to be at the press junket the next morning.

She didn’t understand why he was asking her at first but when he explained his thoughts behind it, she could see what he was trying to do.

He had told her that if she decided to show up and be there for him during that moment, he knew that there was a possible future with them. Not right away of course but eventually. He then said that if she didn’t show up, he;d take that to mean that she wasn’t ready for anything and that he needed to move on as did she.

Nicola appreciated this gesture as it gave her full control in deciding what she wanted in her life. Did she want him or did she want a life with someone else, It was in her court now. 

Taron assured her that no matter what she chose, they would still sit down and talk everything through as they still had Luna to think about. 

Nicola agreed to think about it and let him know in the morning.

However, with the fact that her phone was still missing and the fact that she wasn’t able to sleep well, if at all, made her feel uneasy. Like something bad was about to happen. Like her world as she knew it was about to be turned upside down and then some. She hated that feeling and thought back to the last time she felt that way.

She and Taron were in Anglesea and she had that horrible dream where she and Taron were beyond happy and carefree, dancing to their own tune when all of a sudden and hooded figure came out of nowhere and made her feel indescribably lost, scared, fearful and mournful as she watched Taron die before her very eyes.

Thankfully though it was a dream and things between her and Taron returned to normal, well their form of normal anyway.

Shaking that away, Nicola stretched and let a loud yawn escape her lips. She was glad that she was able to make as much noise as she wanted due to the fact that the kids had stayed in the nanny’s room with her while the adults got to party all they wanted and sleep for as long as they wanted the next morning.

=

“Will you stop pacing. You’re making me sick.” Richard said to Taron as he sipped his coffee, very much regretting getting so drunk the night prior. Don’t get him wrong, he enjoyed celebrating with the rest of his cast members as well as various other people that still milled around.

“I can’t.” Taron replied, sipping his own coffee.

“Why not?” Bryce asked.

“He asked Nicola to come to this thing today.” Richard answered her as Taron scrolled through his phone, checking to see if Nicola had found her phone and texted him.

“I’m sure she’s out there Taron.” Bryce said.

“I hope so because if she’s not, I have my answer.” Taron said, pocketing his phone as the organizer came to get the small group.

Taron quickly looked at Lindsay to see if she had seen Nicola out there.

Lindsay looked at Taron and saw the hope in his fade as she shook her head, telling him that Nicola hadn’t shown up. Her heart absolutely broke for him. She knew how much Nicola meant to him and to see the last chance at the happiness he could have with her disappear, it was right up there with Kate’s sudden death.

Taron curtly nodded his head to her and took a deep breath to keep the tears at bay. He really wanted her there but it would seem like she wasn’t ready and as painful as it was to realize that, he had to accept that.

=

Questions were well underway when Lindsay had to step into the lobby to take a call. She wasn’t there for very long but when she hung up, Nina and the children stepped off the elevator chatting happily and laughing among themselves.

“Hold on a second, kids.” Nina said as she spotted Lindsay. 

“Lindsay.” Nina said as she walked over to the woman.

“Morning Nina, kids.” Lindsay replied cheerily.

“Hi.” Jasmine and Mikey said in unison.

“I found something that I think Nicola was looking for.” Nina said, pulling the woman’s phone from her pocket, handing it to Lindsay.

Lindsay let out a sigh of relief as she knew Nicola was frantic and beside herself that she had lost it.

“Oh Nina, you’re a lifesaver.” Lindsay gushed.

“It was in Luna’s nappy bag. Jasmine said she was playing with it on Nicola’s bed and when she put it down, it must have fallen into the bag.” Nina explained as Jasmine nodded in agreement.

“I’ll let her know when I see her. Speaking of that, have you seen Nicola?” Lindsay asked the group.

Jasmine, Mikey and Nina shook their heads.

“Ok, thanks you guys. You go have fun. I’ll send your father to collect you after.” Lindsay said. 

Nina nodded and told Lindsay where Taron could find them.

Lindsay thanked her and went back into the conference room just in time to hear Taron admit that he was starting to get emotional again.

“Poor guy.” Lindsay muttered to herself as she sat down in the very back so that she could keep an eye on things and not get in the way.

=

Lindsay had been sitting at the back of the room for a few minutes, listening to the answers  that Taron was giving the reporters and when it was announced that the junket would be ending soon and one more question could be answered, she made sure to text Nina and let her know that things were wrapping up fairly shortly.

Nina wasted no time in replying, letting the publicist know that she and the kids were in the cafe across the street enjoying a nice lunch of sandwiches and juice.

“What did I miss?” Nicola asked, scaring the ever loving shit out of Lindsay.

“Holy fuck, Nicola.” Lindsay whispered, holding her hand over her chest.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you. I just didn’t want to disrupt anything.” Nicola told Lindsay.

Lindsay smiled at Nicola and felt her heart soar for Taron. Nicola had shown after all.

“What took you so long?” Lindsay asked.

“I overslept and when I looked at the time on the microwave, I freaked out.” Nicola explained, pointing to the rug burn she had gotten while she was trying to get her blasted jeans on.

“I’m just glad that you’re here because I’ll be honest, it’s been a very long time since I’ve seen that level of heartbreak in his eyes.” Lindsay said, making Nicola feel even guiltier for being so late.

Nicola wanted to say more but she knew that it was better saved for Taron. She looked forward and waited to see if Taron would notice her. She really hoped that he would and that he would know that she wanted this. She wanted them. She wanted this family dynamic.

Sure enough when Taron his eyes to the front, the first thing he noticed was Nicola’s shy smile. The same one he fell in love with. He felt his heart soar at the sight of her but because he knew all eyes were on him, he simply winked at her discreetly to let her know that he saw her.

Nicola smiled back and leaned back in her chair. She was glad that she had made this choice. It was the right thing.

“Oh, before I forget, here.” Lindsay said, handing Nicola her phone.

Nicola took it and clutched it to her chest.

“Oh my god, thank god.” Nicola said softly, so happy to have it back.

“Where was it?” Nicola asked, attempting to turn it on.

“Luna’s nappy bag. Apparently it fell in there.” Lindsay answered.

“Shit, it’s dead. I’ll charge it later.” Nicola said, placing the device on her lap so she could watch the rest of the junket.

“Here, use this.” Lindsay said, handing Nicola the power bar she had in case of emergencies.

Nicola took it and plugged it into her phone, watching the device buzz to life. 

While she was waiting for it to do its thing, Nicola listened in and heard Taron begin to talk about him and his girlfriend staying with Elton. It made her blood boil as she once again thought of that vile woman and all that she put Taron and Mikey through.

“I hated her too.” Lindsay said, taking note of how Nicola’s breathing had deepend. “She wasn’t pleasant to be around.” She continued.

“Lindsay, you don’t know the half of it.” Nicola said.

“I can imagine.” Lindsay said as they both grimaced at the thought of Natascha De Silva and her disgustingly evil personality.

Once that question was answered, things were wrapped up and people were allowed to take their pictures of the actors. 

Nicola wanted to go up and talk to Taron but the ringing of her phone stopped her from doing that.

“Tell him I’ll be right back.” Nicola said as she hurried outside so that she could take the call.

Lindsay knew that Tarn had caught sight of Nicola leaving in a rush so Lindsay stuck her thumbs up letting him know that everything was ok.

=

A little while later, Taron and Mikey met up with their family in the lobby as they were all going out for one last meal before the big trip home to Aber.

“Are we all ready to go?” Taron asked as he walked up to the small group. 

“We sure are.” Rosie said, beginning to walk ahead of everyone else.

“Hold on a second, where’s Nicola?” Taron asked, realizing that she wasn’t with them.

“Sweetheart, why don’t you take the kids and we’ll meet you there.” Tina said to Guy, knowing that she had to break the news to Taron.

Guy nodded and led the kids out to where the dinner spot was situated.

“Mam, what’s going on? Where is she?” Taron asked, feeling sick to his stomach.

“Honey, she left.” Tina replied, ripping the band-aid clean off.

Taron’s face fell. Of course she left, what else was new.

“I know you’re upset but whatever the reason was, it seemed important as she kissed the girls goodbye, packed her things and left.” Tina explained, hoping that it would ease his pain at least a little bit.

“She would never go anywhere without the girls.” Taron said, getting the feeling that something was incredibly wrong.

“Taron, don’t do anything stupid. Just let her deal with it and be here for the girls.” Tina warned him.

Taron knew to listen but something was niggling at him.

“Let’s just go and have a nice dinner and then in the morning, we’ll pack up and start the journey home.” Tina said.

Taron reluctantly agreed and followed his mother to the restaurant.

=

The atmosphere in the restaurant was relatively quiet as hardly a soul sat inside the establishment which meant that Taron and his family could enjoy a meal in peace, well, kind of.

“Daddy, Luna’s doing it again.” Mikey whined as the baby decided to try and reach for her brother’s milkshake.

“Luna, no.” Taron said, making Luna scowl at him.

“Don’t look at me like that.” Taron said but Luna didn’t listen, she continued to scowl and when Taron turned away, she slapped her hands on her highchair tray.

“Here Lu.” Jasmine said as she passed the baby her dummy. Luna just stared at it and looked at her father expectantly.

When Taron didn’t look at her, she squealed to get his attention but instead, everyone that was inside, looked at their table.

All she wanted was one parent’s attention. Was that too much to ask? Apparently so because Taron didn’t look at her.

“I’m not going to give you attention if you keep squealing Luna.” Taron told her and that just pissed her off even more.

Luna’s lower lips quivered and she looked at her nana for help. Tina saw the look on Luna’s face and cringed, knowing what was coming.

“Taron, you’re making her cry.” Jasmine said, grabbing his attention. He turned his eyes to his daughter’s and saw the tears welling in them.

“Here, is this what you want?” Taron asked, holding a spoon up to her mouth.

Luna still had tears in her eyes but she calmed herself when Taron brought the spoon to her lips.

The baby screwed up her face when the taste of the food hit her tongue. Oh she did not like whatever her father had just given her. 

“What did you just give her?” Jasmine asked.

“My soup.” Taron replied, watching for Luna’s reaction.

Luna just looked at him like he had committed the biggest crime known to man.

“Oh Taron, don’t do that. Give her something better.” Tina said, noting the look of pain on her granddaughter’s face.

“It’s fine, it’s only sweet potato soup.” Taron replied.

“Do it again so I can film it.” Mari said, pressing record on Taron’s phone.

Taron dipped the spoon back into the soup, blew on it so that it wasn’t too hot and put it up to Luna’s lips again. Luna opened her mouth again and was greeted with the same yucky taste.

“Taron, stop.” Jasmine said.

Taron looked at Jasmine and nodded. He had to agree, seeing his daughter distressed wasn’t sitting well with him.

“You’re right.” Taron said to Jasmine as he put the spoon down and wiped Luna’s mouth.

“Daddy’s sorry.” Taron said, running his index finger along Luna’s cheek.

Jasmine smiled as did everyone else, happy to see that the father daughter duo had made up and seemed to be on good terms again.

=

When dinner was said and done, the family decided to go on a post food stroll to walk off everything they ate and to hopefully tire the kids out so that they’d sleep really well and be in good moods for the trip home the next day.

However, it was now that Nicola’s presence was truly missed. The night was beautiful. There was a warm but gentle breeze that carried the smell of the salty ocean in its invisible arms while the stars shone brightly against the darkness of the night sky.

Guy and Tina walked hand in hand while Rosie held both Jasmine and Mikey’s hands as they walked on ahead of the group; and Mari, well she still had Taron’s phone and was happily filming random things so that Nicola could see the scenery when they got back.

Taron thought the gesture was really sweet until Mari chose to point the camera at him and Luna. Yes, it was cute but Mari and Taron got tangled a couple times which wasn;t good as Taron was carrying a very sleepy Luna.

“Ok Mari, I think that’s enough for now.” Taron said as he saw the battery on his phone disappearing.

“Just one more video, please?” SHe practically begged, using her best puppy eyes.

“Alright, fine. Just one more.” He said, adjusting Luna in his arms so that she could lay her head in the crook of his neck; her little hand clutching onto his shirt for safety.

Mari panned around one last time before pointing the camera at Taron and Luna again but this time, Mari got something even more extraordinary on film…Luna’s first word.

“Ma ma.” Luna mumbled as a massive yawn escaped her lips. 

The group stopped in their tracks and stared at the 6 month old.

“She talked.” Mikey and Jasmine cheered.

“Was that the first time?” Rosie asked Jasmine.

Jasmine nodded enthusiastically.

“Did you get that?” Guy asked his youngest. Mari beamed and nodded.

“I did.” She said proudly.

Taron felt so proud that he was able to be there for her first word but then when he realized that Luna was most likely missing her mother, Taron’s heart broke for the fact that Nicola had missed the monumental milestone.

Tina saw the look on her son’s face.

“When we get back, pack your bags and we’ll get the kids home safely.” She said to Taron as they now walked behind everyone as they ran ahead, still chatting about Luna’s first word.

Taron smiled and pulled his mum in fr a side hug, careful not to wake the now sleeping Luna.

“Go get your girl.” Tina said as she pulled away and began walking beside Taron again.

Get his girl he would.

===

Tag List:

@elizami11s

@geo-winchester​

[burgers-and-french-fries]

Taking Chances: Chapter Forty Seven.

Note: I know that this has taken me well over a year to update but thank you for your patience. I hope that you enjoy this. I do have more coming as I really want to wrap this story up.

Enjoy!

===

Outfit mood bards:

After dinner that night, Nicola took the girls back to the hotel despite Jasmine’s protests. The little girl wanted to join Taron and Mikey on the walk they were going to take with everyone else, but Nicola declined.

Once they were back in their room, Nicola got Luna and Jasmine ready for bed, tucked them in, changed her clothes and went to sit outside on the balcony. Her mind was reeling with thoughts of all kinds. The main one being her conflicting feelings for Taron and why he had simply referred to her as ‘Luna’s mum.’ I mean she was Luna’s mum but was that all she was to him? And if she was that to him now, what was she to him before? She wasn’t sure if she really wanted to know.

Nicola had no idea how long she had been sitting there for when she was pulled from her thoughts by a small hand gently resting on her arm.

“Lina, are you sad?” Jasmine asked softly, taking note of the unshed tears in her sister’s eyes when she turned to face her.

Nicola smiled and simply opened her arms for one of Jasmine’s special hugs.

“Honestly?” Nicola asked in return. Jasmine nodded.

“Yes, but I’ll be ok.” Nicola answered. She wasn’t sure if she meant that or if she was trying to convince herself that she would in fact be ok.

“Why?” Jasmine questioned.

Nicola didn’t want to tell Jasmine too much information because she knew most of her feelings could only be discussed with adults who fully understood everything Nicola felt in that moment, but she knew Jasmine would want an answer, so she came up with the best one she could think of.

“You know when you feel too many things at once, you cry?” Nicola asked, hoping that this would make sense to the little one.

“Yep.” Jasmine replied, popping the p at the end. She knew the feeling all too well.

“Well, that’s how I’m feeling right now. I’m feeling too many things at once and just need a good cry.” Nicola told Jasmine.

Jasmine was quiet for a minute before an idea popped into her head.

“Chocolate milk always helps me.” Jasmine told Nicola confidently, drawing a giggle from Nicola.

“How does chocolate milk and cheeseburgers sound?” Nicola wondered. Sometimes you need moments like this to feel better or at least slightly better.

“Yes please.” Jasmine replied excitedly. Nicola nodded and stood up to place their room service orders.

When the food finally arrived both girls sat outside watching the stars and made-up stories for the random shapes they found within the constellations. It was a bonding moment that Nicola didn’t realize she needed. It made her heart happier knowing she had the two things that made her complete, her Jasmine and her little moon beam.

=

The next morning, Jasmine decided that she, Nicola and Luna deserved a day at the beach. Nicola was all for it and promptly got things together so they could enjoy their time before it got too hot for Luna to be out.

Once they made it, Nicola laid out a couple towels for her and Jasmine to lay on while Luna laid in her baby beach tent Nicola had brought with them in case a few beach visits were had.

It was simply heaven and most certainly needed.

Laying on the beach with her eyes closed, Nicola enjoyed the heat of the sun upon her skin. The smell of salt water wafted past her as she felt sand pelt her legs. She leaned up on her elbows to look at the culprit. Jasmine.

“Do you mind?” Nicola said, raising her brow. Jasmine locked eyes with her and narrowed her eyes.

“You’re in da way.” The little girl replied sassily.

“Tone it down, missy. No more flicking sand over here. You’ll hit Luna if you aren’t careful.” Nicola said but Jasmine pushed the spade into the sand again and challenged her sister.

Nicola gave her sister the best mum look she could muster, and it worked. Jasmine stuck her tongue out and turned back around to finish building her crab jail for the crabs she had collected with the help of Nicola and Luna who enjoyed the confines of the baby carrier Nicola had with her.

“Hello you three. I’ve been looking everywhere for you.” A voice said approaching them. Nicola sat up and removed her sunglasses to get a better look at who was talking.

“Tina.” Nicola greeted. Tina smiled and sat down next to her.

“The sun feels luxurious, doesn’t it?” She asked.

“It feels amazing.” Nicola answered, looking over at Luna who had started to stir from her sleep. Almost as though she knew her nana was here.

“May I?” Tina asked, pointing to a now conscious Luna. Nicola nodded and watched as Tina stood.

“Hi pretty girl. Did you have a good nap?” The woman questioned. Instead of answering her with her usual babble, Luna simply laid her head on Tina’s shoulder and let a massive yawn escape her small mouth.

“I’ll take that as a yes.” Tina chuckled.

“So, what did you want us for?” Nicola asked, curious as to why Tina had been looking for them.

“You and I have a date with the spa.” Tina replied, making Nicola look nervously at her.

“What bout Luna and me?” Jasmine piped up.

“You and Luna are going to stay with Taron and Mikey. That is if it’s ok with your sister.” Tina told the girl. Jasmine then turned her gaze to Nicola.

“Please Lina, can we?” She begged. How could Nicola say no….again?

“I suppose you won’t take no for an answer?” Nicola said, looking at Tina. Tina shook her head.

“Nope, afraid not my dear.” Tina answered.

“Alright.” Nicola responded softly. Tina smiled widely and Jasmine cheered, startling Luna from her dopey state and making her whimper. Jasmine looked at her niece sheepishly.

“Sorry.” She muttered.

=

Back at the hotel, Taron raced around his and Mikey’s room trying to get ready for all the interviews and press photos he had to do before the premiere later that evening.

“Mikey, have you seen my watch?” Taron called as though he was a headless chicken. Mikey looked up from his colouring book and shook his head.

“Na uh daddy.” Mikey replied, going back to his task.

Taron groaned and was about to go mental when a knock at the door sounded in the room.

“Someone’s here.” Mikey announced as if no one knew.

“Thank you for that Michael.” Taron replied sarcastically.

“Welcome.” He said, not looking up from his page.

Taron opened the door and saw his mum, Jasmine and Luna.

“What are you wearing?” Jasmine asked, crinkling her nose as her eyes landed on Taron’s busy looking clothes. Taron looked down at his suit and looked back at her.

“A suit.” He replied as Jasmine continued to eye him. She didn’t like it. She didn’t think that it matched him.

“Do you have another one?” She asked, taking the adults by surprise.

“Jasmine, that’s not nice.” Tina remarked.

“Mam, it’s alright. In answer to your question missy, I do have another one but it’s for tonight and I happen to like this outfit.” Taron explained.

“Ok.” Jasmine said as she shrugged her shoulders but she wasn’t convinced. Taron looked at his mother and rolled his eyes playfully.

“Mikey, Jasmine’s here.” Taron called over his shoulder. Tina noticed her son’s frazzled state and gave him a soft and gentle reassuring smile.

At that moment, Luna whimpered, annoyed that no one was paying attention to her and reached for her father. Taron smiled and happily took her from her nana.

“Hi bug.” Taron said, kissing his daughter’s cheek, making her squeal from the scruff that currently took up residence on his jaw.

Taron smiled at her and turned back to his mum.

“What was all the ruckus I heard from out in the hall?” Tina asked.

“Can’t find my watch and I have to leave in about ten minutes.” Taron replied, feeling the nerves and anxiety creep up on him once more.

“You mean the one that’s on your wrist?” She asked. Taron looked down and groaned. Of course it was already on his wrist.

“Bloody Nora.” He cussed loudly.

“Not in front of the baby.” Tina scolded. She knew Nicola wouldn’t appreciate her daughter’s first words to be Taron’s colourful language.

Taron gave his mother a guilty look and she simply smiled. She knew that he was feeling all emotions today and was freaking out as he normally did before big movie premieres he was involved in.

“Right, I need to go as I’m sure Nicola is all ready. But listen, just remember how proud of you we all are. Right Luna?” Tina told her son. Luna looked at her father and sighed, making both her father and nana giggle.

“Does Nicola know I won’t be here and that the kids are with the nanny?” Taron wondered. Tina gave him a sheepish expression.

“I may have decided to leave that out as I knew that she wouldn’t agree to get glammed up for tonight.” Tina explained. Taron nodded. He knew it probably wasn’t the best idea but sometimes, telling white lies were ok….right?

“Daddy, look at dis!” Mikey hollered as he finished up his picture.

Taron smiled and bid his mother goodbye before making his way over to his son and Jasmine.

“Let’s have a look.” Taron said as he sat down, placed Luna on his knee and held a hand out for Mikey to hand him the picture.

Mikey happily passed it over and watched as Taron’s eyes flicked over the multi colored stick figures and flowers that took up the entire page.

“Like it daddy?” Mikey asked, rocking back and forth.

“Like it? I love it.” Taron replied, looking up at his boy. Mikey beamed and took the picture back before rejoining Jasmine.

Taron chuckled and stood back up to go and place Luna’s bottles in the fridge.

=

Once the bottles were placed in the fridge and Taron got in some more kisses with Luna, he sought out Nina so that he could hand Luna to her and make his leave before he was late.

“I should be back in a while but if you need anything, you know how to reach me.” Taron said as Nina and the children followed him to the door.

“We’ll be fine Taron. They’re in good hands, don’t worry.” Nina reassured him. Taron gave her a tight-lipped smile.

“You two listen and if Nina needs help with the baby, I’m counting on you to help, ok?” Taron said, looking between Mikey and Jasmine.

Both kids nodded and watched as Taron stood and left but Luna wasn’t ok with another parent leaving her, especially when they left her with a strange lady.

So much so, her lower lip began to wobble, and she soon burst into tears as her daddy disappeared from her sight.

Nina held the infant closer and rubbed her back as Luna continued to cry.

“It’s alright sweetheart. He’ll be back later.” The woman said. Mikey and Jasmine looked at each other and looked at Luna. They felt bad for her. Mikey though knew exactly how she felt, he hated it when Taron left him too.

“Her dummy is in her bag.” Jasmine said as she ran to her niece’s nappy bag. She retrieved the device and handed it to Nina.

The woman took it gratefully and placed it against Luna’s lips, but Luna wasn’t having it, she just wanted her daddy.

“When is she due for a feed?” Nina asked Jasmine. Jasmine bit her lower lip and looked at the clock on the wall, even though she couldn’t really tell the time yet.

“You can try now.” Jasmine told her, taking a guess. Nina nodded and gave the little girl a smile.

“Why don’t you two head to the living room and I’ll join you when Luna’s bottle is ready.” She said.

Jasmine and Mikey ran off and started playing with the Lego Mikey had been playing with before breakfast.

=

“How do you think they are?” Nicola asked Tina as the women sat and got their nails done. Tina looked at her.

“They’re in good hands.” Tina told her, once again leaving out that the kids were with the nanny and not Taron.

“I haven’t really left Luna before now and it feels strange.” Nicola said, not remembering the trip she and Taron took to Anglesea. She had blocked it out somewhat.

“You left the girls with us when you and Taron went away. They were ok then, weren’t they?” Tina asked.

Nicola sighed. Tina had a point but it was different, they weren’t the ones that had threatened to take her daughter away from her.

“That’s different though, I trust you and Guy but Taron, I’m not sure.” Nicola admitted.

Tina really didn’t blame Nicola for feeling that way. If she was in Nicola’s place and her ex had done what Taron did, she’d be weary too.

“It will feel that way, but I promise that the girls are ok and being well taken care of. Now, what do you say to a little shopping spree after this? A little birdy told me that you don’t have a dress for tonight.” Tina responded. Nicola gave her a slight smile.

“Jasmine has a big mouth.” Nicola said, knowing that Jasmine had spilled the beans.

“She felt bad because you picked out princess dresses for her and Luna but didn’t have one for yourself.” Tina told her.

“Princess dresses, eh?” Nicola chuckled.

“Her words.” Tina replied, making Nicola giggle.

“What do you say, let’s get you a princess dress?” Tina teased.

Nicola wasn’t sure though; she still wasn’t in love with her new body and anything she tried on before they left made everything stand out. Her belly being the sorest spot…no, maybe that was her thighs…..who was she kidding, it was both her belly and thighs that were still bugging her.

“We can try.” She replied, making Tina beam with happiness.

=

A few hours later, Tina and Nicola were well and truly shopped out. They had enjoyed their beauty day and French patisserie tasting but with the premiere happening within the next few hours, Nicola knew that it was high time that Jasmine and Luna had a nap before the big event. Hell she thought that maybe she’d join them after the emotionally draining dress trying on.

Nicola had tried on dress after dress after dress in many variations of colour, but nothing sat well with her until she and Tina had a heart to heart in which she basically unloaded all of her woes onto the older woman. It felt really good.

“I hope they had fun with him.” Nicola said as she and Tina walked toward Taron’s room after taking their shopping bags and other items to their respective rooms.

“I know they did. Jasmine I’m sure had loads of fun with Mikey and I’m sure Luna lapped up all the attention her daddy was giving her.” Tina replied, making Nicola smile. Yup, she was definitely feeling more like herself after the heart to heart.

“Hello!” Tina sing songed as she and Nicola walked through the door.

“Nana!” Mikey hollered, recognizing her voice.

“What are you up to?” Tina asked, just as Nina dashed from the bathroom and into a bedroom, wearing nothing but a towel. Nicola saw this and was furious. How dare Taron think about inviting her and the girls while he was fucking some other chick.

“Who was that?” Nicola asked, trying not to let her blood boil over.

“Who was who?” Tina questioned in reply and thankfully, Taron walked through the door at the same time.

“Did you two have fun?” Taron asked, oblivious to what was going on.

“Yes, we did. It was well needed.” Tina replied but by this point, you could practically see the steam coming from Nicola’s ears.

“Where the hell have you been?” She seethed, looking dead on at Taron. He looked at her with a raised brow.

“What’s wrong now?” He countered defensively.

“Why do you have some half naked woman watching my girls while you gallivant wherever.” Nicola all but shouted.

“First of all, I do have a job to do, and I was doing it and second of all, what do you mean half naked woman?” He replied.

“I was under the impression that you were going to be watching the girls, not someone else.” She spat, just as Nina emerged from the bedroom she had entered with Luna in her arms and fully clothed.

“Seems like this one missed her father.” Nina said, handing the baby to Taron. Taron took her and held her close, but Nicola took Luna from him.

“Jasmine, let’s go.” Nicola seethed one last time, making her leave with the girls.

Nina stood there not knowing what to do.

“Is everything ok?” She asked carefully. Taron grunted.

“Why were you wearing a towel Nina?” He asked, ignoring her question.

“Oh, I was changing Luna and she weed on me so while Jasmine and Mikey were watching a movie, I asked them if they’d be ok for a few minutes while I cleaned myself up. I wasn’t in there very long and I had the monitor with me, so I knew that Luna was ok.” She explained.

“Luna likes doing that to people.” Tina remarked, remembering all the times she herself had been weed on by Luna.

“Nicola saw you in the towel and freaked out.” Taron told Nina.

“Oh my god, does she think we’re doing something?!” Nina asked, pointing between herself and Taron. She was a little mortified to say the least.

“Oh probably.” Taron said, throwing up his hands in frustration.

“There’s nothing going on though, right?” Tina asked, looking between the other adults.

“Mam, no. Nothing’s going on.” Taron replied. He was a little hurt by the insinuation.

“She has a girlfriend.” Mikey piped up, wanting to have his say.

Tina looked at Nina and smiled. She had to admit that she was surprised.

“He’s right. If I was going to be with anyone, it would be a female.” Nina confirmed.

=

By the time 4:00pm rolled around, Nicola had the girls up from their naps, fed and in some comfortable clothing so she could get them ready without ruining their dresses, when a knock sounded at their door.

“Watch her for a second.” Nicola told Jasmine. Jasmine nodded and faced the baby, proceeding to pull faces at her.

“What do you want?” Nicola said as her eyes landed on Taron.

“Can we talk?” He asked. Nicola stared at him for a minute trying to figure out if he had an ulterior motive but when she couldn’t see any in his body language, she relented a little.

“Fine but make it quick, I don’t have time for this and neither do you.” Nicola agreed, letting him in.

Nicola led him to the kitchen area, so they had a little more privacy away from listening ears.

“I wanted to talk to you about Nina.” Taron said, making Nicola narrow her eyes at him.

“Come to tell me what I already know?” Nicola replied, crossing her arms.

“I’m not sleeping with her.” He defended.

“Oh sure you aren’t.” Nicola said, throwing her head back dramatically.

“I’m not her type.” Taron replied.

“You’re everyone’s type Taron.” Nicola responded, making his eyebrows shoot to his hairline.

“Everyone’s type?” He questioned. Nicola rolled her eyes and ignored his remark.

“And what’s her type then?” Nicola said.

“You.” Taron replied simply, shrugging his shoulders. Nicola frowned at him in confusion.

Taron gave her a second to clue in.

“You mean she’s-“ Nicola started.

“She has a girlfriend Nicola and if I was going to sleep with someone, it wouldn’t be her.” He finished for her.

“You wouldn’t sleep with her, but you’d sleep with someone like Natascha De Silva?” Nicola said. She knew that Natascha was a sore spot for Taron, especially since he found out that she was abusing his son.

The look on his face told Nicola that she’d just hit a tender area.

“That was low, I’m sorry.” She replied.

“I deserved that.” He answered.

“No, you didn’t. I’m just angry that you weren’t honest with me in the beginning and told me that someone else was going to be watching the girls. I’m also mad that your mam knew about the nanny being there too and didn’t tell me.” Nicola explained.

“I know, I should have been honest, but would you have let me have them if you knew I wasn’t going to be around?” He questioned.

“Not a chance.” Nicola replied truthfully.

“That’s what I thought and that’s why mam and I didn’t let on.” He said.

“There is just one thing I want to know.” Nicola said, making Taron look at her.

“What’s that?” He asked.

“Why was she in a towel?” Nicola returned.

“She was changing Luna and she weed on Nina. She went to clean herself up once Luna was settled safely on the bed, and Jasmine and Mikey were watching a movie. She said she wasn’t in the bathroom for very long and she had the monitor with her so that she could keep an eye on our daughter.” Taron explained, making Nicola’s heart skip a beat when he referred to Luna as their daughter and not just his daughter.

“Oh.” Nicola replied, feeling sheepish.

“Lina, Luna pooed.” Jasmine hollered, breaking the silence that had fallen upon the kitchen.

“You better go.” Nicola said, clearing her throat and straightening up.

“Trying to get rid of me?” Taron teased.

“Don’t want to be late, do you? Pretty big night.” Nicola said to him, making him smile bashfully.

“Before I go, can you promise me one thing?” Taron asked. Nicola looked at him reluctantly.

“I hate to say it but go on.” She replied.

“No matter how angry we get with each other, we always talk it out before we say things we’ll regret.” He continued. Nicola bit her lower lip.

“I suppose for Luna and the kid’s sake, it would be best.” She answered.

“Lina!” Jasmine hollered again.

Taron and Nicola bid their goodbyes for now before Nicola went to change the little party pooper.

=

A few hours later, everyone gathered in the lobby of the hotel, ready to pile into their designated cars to head to the venue. The only problem was that Nicola hadn’t come down yet and Taron, who was already stressed out, was beginning to think she wouldn’t show up.

That’s when the elevator doors opened and Jasmine came barreling towards Mikey all dressed in her princess dress as she called it. Nicola of course was trailing behind her and had an extremely fussy baby in her arms.

“Sorry we’re late, this one refused to let me dress her.” Nicola huffed out as she adjusted the baby on her hip. Taron couldn’t reply. He was too captivated with how beautiful Nicola looked.

Nicola followed his eyes and looked down at herself as if she was asking for his thoughts. It made her giddy with excitement but she had to remember that he had hurt her deeply.

“You look beautiful Nicola.” Guy complimented as he saw his step son standing there checking her out.

Nicola turned her eyes to him and smiled gently.

“It’s not too much?” She asked.

“No.” Tina replied with a bright smile. She could see the gears turning in her son’s head.

“You look like a barbie.” Mikey piped up.

Nicola chuckled at his words.

“Thank you Mikey. You don’t look so bad yourself.” Nicola replied.

“I look like daddy.” The boy stated very proudly, making everyone chuckle.

The little boy was so chuffed when he was told that he would be matching his father. It made him feel very important.

“You sure do. Very handsome.” Nicola told him. Mikey smiled and blushed.

Taron felt his heart skip a beat at her words. He knew that was her way of complimenting him as well without having to say it. At least he hoped that was the case.

“Ok, cars are here.” Jack announced as he walked back to the group.

“Fuck me, Nicola, you look stunning.” Bleddyn gaped, making Nicola bite her lip, nervously watching Taron for a reaction but nothing in his expression or posture changed. He continued starring at her. Now, don’t get her wrong, she appreciated the compliments but the one person that mattered the most had not yet said anything to her and that added more to the wound he had given her. She had hoped he’d say something but she would appear wrong.

Jasmine looked between Taron and Nicola and could see the cogs turning in their heads. She could see the love in Taron’s eyes as he admired her sister and she could see the look of pain and sadness in her sister’s eyes as Taron stood there not speaking but just staring her up and down.

She made up in her mind that she was going to plant a seed in Taron’s mind to get him to admit his feelings to her sister; and of course get him to apologize to Nicola. After all, she could only handle so much grumpiness and sourness from Nicola on what Taron had done wrong. Didn’t Nicola know it went both ways?

Jasmine walked over to Taron as he now tried to pay attention to everyone else as they all got into the cars.

“Hi.” She said, looking up at him.

Taron looked down and smiled warmly at her.

“Hi chipmunk.” He replied, making Jasmine look at him weirdly.

She had no idea what that was but she wasn’t going to ask him about why he called her that right now. She had bigger fish to fry first.

“Are you excited?” Jasmine asked as she slipped her hand in his so that she wouldn’t get forgotten.

“I am but I’m nervous too.” He answered. Jasmine nodded. She felt nervous too.

“Me too.” She told him.

“You don’t seem like you are.” Taron noted.

“Cause I’m with people that love me.” She said, looking pointedly at him.

Taron felt called out.

“What are you trying to say, missy.” He asked curiously.

“She loves you.” Jasmine responded.

“Who does?” Taron questioned, wanting clarification, although he could take a wild guess at who Jasmine was referring to which made his whole body feel electrified.

“You love her too.” Jasmine replied sarcastically.

“I do not.” He somewhat playfully denied. Jasmine saw through it.

“It’s ok to be scared but if you don’t take the chance, you’ll be sad for the rest of your life.” She told him, remembering what Nicola constantly told her when she was worried about something or scared. Whatever situation she was facing, Nicola always told her those words and it was something she hoped would make Taron hurry up and marry Nicola already.

Before he could reply to the wise little girl, she was placed into the same car as her sister and the rest of Taron’s guests.

=

Red carpet events were something that Taron never really liked as it made him feel even more nervous. He didn’t like the flashing cameras in his face. He didn’t like the people screaming at him for his attention but he knew it was part of the job that he elected to do. He knew that for him to appear confident and put together, he would have to create a mask to disguise his true feelings.

Sometimes that tactic worked but sometimes it didn’t and people would catch glimpses of who he really was behind the fame and glory he felt he had.

If he was completely honest though, he had been creating masks for himself since he could remember. One mask in particular was created when he was in school. Not everyone liked him and they would relentlessly pick on him and make him feel worthless. Sure it bothered him but with the guise of confidence and toughness, no one could touch him. No one wanted to.

For him, it was his way of protecting himself from the cruelness that this world held.

When he had his masks on, he could do anything and be anything he wanted. He felt powerful and in control but the one thing that made it dangerous was not being able to see when others were wearing their own masks.

He had no idea just how much Nicola was like him in that way. He knew that she had been through copious amounts of heartbreaks and let downs but he hadn’t thought as far as her having her own masks.

He only realized they were the same in that way when he looked over his shoulder at the woman behind him during the last scene of the movie currently playing in front of them.

He could see the look of admiration on her face as she watched him singing and playing the piano but behind that, he could see the sadness and betrayal. He could see the years of anguish, the years of loneliness and fear. He could see everything in her eyes at that moment and that’s when he heard Jasmine’s words in his mind again.

Nicola really did love him but with everything she had faced both in the past and recently, she was scared to let him in and scared that he would hurt her again.

He knew that he had a lot to prove with her but he was damn well going to try and make her see how sorry he felt and just how much he loved and cherished her.

It was time to take his chance.

Turning his attention back to the screen just as the credits appeared, Taron sat in his seat pondering Jasmine’s words. He knew that the little girl was right but for the advice to come from such a small child, it made him realize that everyone else could see that he was so in love with Nicola.

They could see just how much she impacted him and how much she meant to him. He hadn’t realized just how obvious he was being but with Jasmine’s words, he knew that was also her way of saying that she wants them together. That she wants to see them both happy.

===

Tag List:

@elizami11s

 @stilessbaseballbat​

@geo-winchester​

@queenrocketman007

[burgers-and-french-fries]

Love At First Flame

As some of you may know, I set out to write a mini series based around one of Taron Egerton's characters and I am happy to announce that the first imagine of this series will be out next week....or at least that's what I am aiming for.

I will have plot details and characters etc. posted very soon but for now, here is what the cover is going to look like.

Thank you for your patience and your support and to those of you that have helped with little ideas for this series, I especially want to thank you.

I will see you all very soon for the first installment❤️

[burgers-and-french-fries]

‘Mad’ Teddy Smith: My Girl.

Note: This was requested by a follower of mine over on Wattpad. I had so much fun writing it and because of that, I thought I’d share it on hre as well. 

You can find it below the picture.

Enjoy!

===

'London in the 1960s. Everyone had a story about the Krays. You could walk into any pub to hear a lie or two about them. But I was there and I'm not careless with the truth. They were brothers but bound by more than blood. They were twins as well, counterparts. Gangster princes of the city they meant to conquer. Ron Kray was a one-man London mob. Bloodthirsty, illogical and funny as well. My Reggie was different. Once in a lifetime do you find a street-fighting man like Reg. Believe me when I say it took a lot of love for me to hate him the way I do.'

~Emily Browning (Frances Shea ‘Legend’ 2015).

 1965 was the year that Frances and Reggie Kray officially tied the knot. It was also the year that Y/n had moved back to London’s East end to be with her now widowed mother. It just so happened that she had been invited to the Kray wedding and she had no idea why until she conversed with one of her colleagues, Alice-May. Y/n’s mother was of course reluctant to let her daughter attend as she knew what the Krays did, but she also knew that she’d have a headache on her hands if she had her daughter decline.

It turned out that y/n and Alice-May’s boss was a mousey mannered man. Everything seemed to scare him and because of that, he had sought solace and refuge under the Krays watch. This meant that Patrick O’Callaghan and his employees had no choice but to attend the event. This of course meant the attendance of both y/n and Alice-May.

Flashing forward about a year, the Krays, namely Reggie, had taken a liking to y/n. It was part of the reason y/n quit her job and began working at Esmeralda’s barn. This was an even riskier job than she had before, but it paid better and because of her mother’s slow declining health, y/n knew it would be for the best.

“Alright love?” Gerald, the coat check asked as he approached y/n for a drink.

“Yeah, but I’ll be glad when I can go home.” She said. Gerald nodded in agreement.

“I second that.” He said, downing the shot of whisky y/n had poured for him.

The two talked for a few more minutes before y/n spotted Ron and Teddy walk toward the exit. Ron looked angry as he always did but something about Teddy’s body language made her worry for him.

“What’s up with those two tonight?” Y/n questioned, quickly pointing the couple out. Gerald looked over and frowned to himself.

“I’m not sure but I wouldn’t worry yourself about it. Whatever it is, they can look after themselves, yeah.” Gerald told her, making sure to hint at her to leave it alone. She heard the warning and nodded. That didn’t stop her brain from playing out different scenarios in her head.

She shrugged it off and went about the rest of her shift before heading home for the night.

=

After her shift, y/n stopped by the local chippy to pick up some food for herself and her mother. It wasn’t that there wasn’t any food at home but once in a while, y/n enjoyed treating her mother to good old fried food and sweet treat.

The woman smiled to herself until she caught sight of Ron’s car parked outside of a pub. It was odd, even for him and she would have gone to see what was going on, but she remembered Gerald’s words. She shook her head and decided that it was definitely best to stay out of whatever was happening.

“Mum, I’m home.” Y/n called as she finally entered the house.

“Hello love. How was work?” Helen asked from her armchair where she was sitting and completing a few lines of her knitting.

“Exhausting and because I’m tired, I bought us some dinner.” Y/n said, holding up the packaged fish and chips.

“Oh you sweet girl. You do spoil me, doesn’t she Walter?” Helen said, looking at an empty space on the sofa.

Y/n smiled sadly to herself. She really missed her father and when her mother slipped into one of her early onset dementia episodes, it made her want to burst into tears. Her parents were so close and when her father passed away, it was very hard on her mother which is the reason y/n moved back home from her little slice of heaven, Valencia in Spain.

“Would you like a cuppa mum?” Y/n asked as she plated the food.

“Yes, thank you, love.” Helen replied with a warm smile. Y/n nodded and boiled the kettle.

“So, how was your night?” Y/n questioned, coming back into the room with their food. She set up her mother’s lap tray with the food and she had even placed a small sweetie on there for afterwards as well, knowing her mother would thoroughly enjoy that.

“It was alright. I read the paper and had a nap in me chair.” Helen replied, putting her knitting away and tucking into her food.

“That sounds so nice mum.” Y/n said, a little envious of her mother’s leisure activities.

Helen beamed at her daughter. This is one thing she loved the most. Spending time with her daughter and talking about their days and relaxing before their bedtimes.

The kettle soon came to a complete boil and screeched as loud as it could to alert y/n it was ready to be used. Y/n sighed, wiped her hands of the grease and stood to make the tea.

=

While she was doing that, Helen was happily munching on her food when a knock could be heard echoing through the house. Y/n looked at the clock knowing that it was too late for anyone to be out.

“I’ll get it y/n.” Helen called from the living room.

“Alright, I’ll be done momentarily.” Y/n called back and went about her job of filling the cups how she and her mum preferred their teas.

“Teddy Love, what happened?” Helen asked as she opened the door and her eyes landed on the young man’s face.

He and Ron had gotten into a fight, and it ended up with ugly results on Teddy’s face. A cut to his eyebrow, a bruise forming on his jaw, little grazes sat red and angry on his left  cheekbone and the split lip, it was bleeding something awful.

Helen was quick to pull him in for a hug, careful to not injure him further. The gesture putting pressure on Teddy’s bruising jaw. The poor lad obviously needed a good cuddle since he was very accepting of the hug that was offered to him.

“Who is it mum? It’s late.” Y/n asked as she walked into the room.

“It’s Teddy.” Helen replied, breaking the hug and ushering him into the house where it was warm and safe. She knew that the injuries were caused by Ronald Kray. After all, it wasn’t the first time Teddy had come by with injuries due to his partner.

“I’m glad you’re here Te- what the hell happened?” Y/n gasped as she looked up at her friend.

“I’d rather not talk about it.” He replied softly. The women looked at each other, this wasn’t like Teddy at all. He was normally strong and didn’t seem to be bothered about anything that happened.

“Alright then, would you like a cuppa?” Helen asked for y/n who was examining his face from her spot by the coffee table.

“Thank you, Helen, that would be lovely.” He responded as she helped him sit on the sofa. Helen nodded and left the room.

“Was it him?” Y/n asked, already feeling her blood boil. Ronald Kray had that affect on her.

“I said I don’t want to talk about it y/n. I just need to know if I can crash here.” Teddy said, getting short with his friend.

He leaned back on the sofa but moaned in pain when his jaw made contact with the back of the sofa.

“That’s it. Stand up.” Y/n instructed.

“Leave him be love. He’s fine there.” Helen said, walking back out.

“He needs a proper bed mum and someone to clean him up.” Y/n replied. Helen couldn’t argue with that.

“I’ll help, shall I?” Helen asked, looking at her daughter who gave her a tight-lipped smile. She wasn’t please with the state of Teddy or his attitude towards it.

=

Helen helped as much as she could but even she knew that the friends needed space to talk. She went downstairs to retrieve Teddy’s tea.

“Here you are, Teddy love.” Helen told him, setting the cup down on the nightstand. Both Teddy and y/n smiled at Helen.

“Thank you, mum.” Y/n answered for both of them when she heard Teddy wince.

“I’ll be downstairs in me chair if you need anything.” Helen said, making her leave.

Y/n looked at how broken Teddy looked and grumbled slightly.

“Your face needs to be cleaned up. Your lip is still bleeding.” Y/n stated. Teddy sighed and lied his head back on the pillow behind him.

It took a few minutes for y/n to gather everything she needed to help her friend. She hated how he and Ron would fight so much. Granted it was rarely ever physical but when it was physical, well, the proof was in her room of what would happen.

“So, are you going to tell me what happened or are we going to continue ignoring it?” Y/n said as she sat beside Teddy and unscrewed the cap for the antiseptic.

Teddy looked up at her with glassy eyes. He was beginning to feel the pain fill his veins and the sleepiness seep into his bones.

“Teddy, sweetheart, you need to stay awake for me.” Y/n said as she didn’t know if he had a concussion. Gently placing her hand on his good cheek, Teddy leaned into her touch and hummed. It was the first time in a long while that he had felt a tender touch like this. It warmed his heart.

“How about some music. I have the new Temptations album.” Y/n smiled. Teddy simply gave her a long blink.

“Fine.” He replied.

“Only if you tell me what happened.” Y/n said, trying one last time to get to the bottom of this.

This time, Teddy relented as he knew y/n wasn’t going to drop it.

“We was at the Blind Beggar. Ron went in there to take care of business.” Teddy explained. Y/n felt her heart sink. She hated Teddy’s line of work. She hated the Krays line of work.

“Who did he kill?” Y/n asked with a snarky tone. Teddy looked at her disapprovingly. Ron was still his partner and he loved him despite what had happened tonight.

“Cornell.” Teddy replied simply before y/n applied the antiseptic to his brow. Teddy winced and frowned.

“Sorry.” Y/n said gently.

“It’s ok.” Teddy replied.

“What else happened?” Y/n questioned, knowing full well that there was more to come.

“We went to Violet’s after, and Reg came. Told me to burn Ron’s things after he went to bed and report back to him. Ron got mad and we fought.” Teddy said, watching as y/n’s face grew red with anger. He would have flinched if he knew she’d hit him for not being honest in the beginning.

“I don’t know why you stay with him. He’s dangerous.” Y/n snapped, finally losing her temper a little bit.

“Because I love him y/n. It’s not like you’d understand.” Teddy snapped back. Y/n looked at him with annoyance. Well that didn’t hurt.

“Just because you love someone doesn’t mean they’re good for you!” Y/n shouted. She wouldn’t tell him, but she had developed a special liking to him from the moment she laid eyes on him. He was handsome, charming and had a way about him that was able to draw anyone in. Mysterious in every sense of the word.

“You don’t know what it’s like to be in this field and know that if you left, you’d be maimed for it.” Teddy countered. Y/n was now pacing the room as her blood boiled just below breaking point.

“Yes, I do Edward. I work for them too you know. You are not the only one whose feelings and wellbeing are affected by this.” Y/n spat, officially breaking.

Teddy looked at her. She never called him Edward, well, aside from when they first met last year at the wedding but that was the only time until now. He liked it.

“Why do you care so much if you hate Ron that much?” Teddy asked, after finding his voice again.

Y/n hung her head. It was now or never.

“Because Edward. I- I just do.” She said, chickening out. She couldn’t say it to him, not now and possibly not ever. She knew he wasn’t into women at all, and he preferred the company of men or so he made it seem.

“Sure you do.” He tisked. He wasn’t buying her response.

“Fine, you want the truth? I care because I love you, ok.” Y/n said, turning her face from him.

Teddy swore he could feel his stomach do an array of flips while his heart skipped a couple beats. What did she mean she loved him?

“Y/n, look at me.” Teddy instructed softly, taking hold of her empty hand. Y/n refused to look at him, she knew she’d crumble if she did.

“Y/n, is everything ok in there. There’s a lot of shouting going on.” Helen said, finally having enough of the fighting that was going on.

Y/n cleared her throat and wiped her eyes, letting Teddy know that she was crying.

“Everything is fine mum. Go back to your knitting.” Y/n told her. Helen wasn’t sure if she should, but trusted her daughter.

“Why are you crying? I haven’t said anything yet.” Teddy questioned.

“Doesn’t matter. Let’s just finish cleaning you up.” Y/n said as she got back to the task at hand.

=

Once Teddy’s face was all cleaned and bandaged up, y/n properly settled her friend into her bed, making sure to pull the covers up to his chest, not forgetting the soft kisses she’d lay on each of his injuries. Though this time with one of the injuries being the split lip and her having confessed her feelings for him, she thought better of kissing each owie better.

“Thank you for looking after me y/n.” Teddy said. Y/n looked down at him and smiled sadly.

“You’ll be the death of me Edward Richard Smith.” Y/n replied. Teddy smiled at that. He loved the way his name sounded rolling off her tongue.

“How about that new album then.” Teddy suggested, drawing a bigger smile from y/n. She could never pass up anything from the Temptations.

Y/n went over to her small collection and placed the record on the player, turning the volume down so it wouldn’t disturb her mother who had most likely fallen asleep in her beloved armchair.

When y/n turned around to face Teddy again, he was standing up holding his hand out for her to take. It was hard for her to concentrate since Teddy was in his undershirt and boxer shorts. Mind you, she’d always struggled seeing him in this state of undress. It may or may not have turned her on.

“Teddy, I just tucked you in.” Y/n whined.

“Dance with me.” Teddy said, ignoring her comment and earning a smile from his friend.

“Dressed like that. Good sir, it’s far to improper.” Y/n teased, hoping to make him smile. He did and she felt her heart flip at the sight.

The pair of them giggled and laughed as the music played. They were having so much fun being able to be this close and not have anyone give them dirty looks or give them rude comments. It was just them, a record player and their comfortable clothes. The way y/n had always wanted it.

However, when ‘My Girl’ started to play, Teddy pulled the woman close to his body and slowed down their movements, despite the song being a bit of a faster paced one. Y/n’s heart was racing even faster now as she could feel his toned chest against hers and feel the strength of his arms as he held her close. It was more than her brain could process.

Y/n looked at the man in front of her and felt the world come to a complete stop and melt away. The music had vanished into the background and the lights became dim. The only thing you could hear was the sound of Teddy and y/n’s breathing. Their smiles faded as they stared at each other. There was no denying that both were in love with each other.

“My girl.” Teddy whispered lovingly, slowly leaning in and closing the gap between him and y/n.

Y/n’s whole body was buzzing. She couldn’t believe that she was kissing Teddy. His lips were soft and gentle as they caressed hers tenderly. His hands held her body even closer to his if that was possible. Everything was pure magic. That was until her brain reminded her that this was wrong, and he didn’t belong to her. He belonged to someone else.

“Why are you being so cruel?” Y/n asked, abruptly pulling away from him, feeling tears grow in her eyes. How could he do such a thing to her when he preferred people of his gender.

“Cruel? Is that what you think of me?” He questioned in reply. To say he was hurt was an understatement. He would never do anything to hurt her, and she knew it too.

“Playing with my feelings isn’t something I thought you would do.” Y/n said, trying not to let him know that he had hurt her by leading her on.

“I’m not playing with your feelings, y/n.” He told her, watching her walk to the door.

“I’d like you to leave.” Y/n said. Teddy could see in her eyes that she felt betrayed and used. That wasn’t what he was doing at all.

“Why?” He asked, standing his ground.

“I admitted how I felt about you and now you’re using that against me and making me feel more deeply for you.” She explained. Teddy nodded and grabbed his clothes, slipping on his slacks. If this is what she wanted, then so be it. He wouldn’t argue.

Y/n watched him dress and felt her heart break.

“If it makes any difference, that was me telling you how I felt.” Teddy replied, feeling rejected for the second time that night. Y/n bit her lip and tried to focus on his face through her unshed tears.

She looked as hard as she could for any sign of a falsehood but when she couldn’t see any, Teddy was almost fully clothed again.

“You really mean that don’t you?” She asked. Teddy nodded.

“You’re the only one that knows how to take care of me in these situations and you always listen to me when I need someone outside of everything to talk to. You make me feel needed.” He told her truthfully. Y/n took a deep breath and slowly let it out while looking at him. The record still playing ‘My Girl’.

“You’re not mine Teddy and you never will be.” Y/n said. Hearing it said out loud made her whole body want to crumble. No matter how badly she thought she wanted Teddy, he would never be hers and Ron Kray would make sure of that.

Teddy looked at her with hurt in his eyes. He knew that y/n was right but that didn’t stop him from wanting her body on his.

“At this point y/n, you are the only thing stopping me from falling apart.” He told her. She looked at the ground.

“I love you y/n.” Teddy admitted. This was enough for y/n to walk up to him and throw her arms around him.

“I love you too Teddy.” She replied.

“Y/n?” He asked as his eyes went closed.

“Yeah?” She questioned in reply.

“Lay with me?” He asked. Y/n didn’t know what he meant by that but when she felt his body start to go limp in her arms, she caught him and helped him back to the bed.

She went about undressing him and tucking him in once more. It had obviously been a big day for him, and these confessions weren’t helping anyone.

=

The next morning, y/n woke up cuddled into Teddy’s side as he slept soundly. The events of the night before came rushing back to her and as much as she wanted them to come to fruition, she knew there was no chance of that happening. All she had was here and now.

She looked down at Teddy and weighed her options, would he hate her for waking him up with a kiss or would he welcome it the way he had last night? There was really only one way to find out.

Y/n carefully moved her head as to not wake him and gently placed her lips on his. She was careful of the owie but still poured as much emotion into the kiss as she could.

This is what woke Teddy up.

“Fuck Ron. I want you.” He mumbled, stretching and flexing his muscles.

“You know that we can’t. We’d be killed if we did.” Y/n said.

“Only if we’re caught.” Teddy smirked. Y/n chuckled slightly.

“It’s too risky Ted.” Y/n said, placing a small peck to his lips.

“What time is it?” Teddy asked.

Y/n looked at her alarm clock and groaned.

“7am.” She replied.

“Perfect. I don’t have to meet the boys until 11:30am.” Teddy replied, wiggling his eyebrows at y/n.

“Alright fine but let’s hurry. Mum will be up soon.” Y/n told him as she moved so that she was on top. She still wanted Teddy to be careful of his injuries, even if they were mainly sustained to his face.

Y/n lifted her night gown to make it easier for her to straddle Teddy’s waist. This action definitely getting him excited. Y/n smirked down at him and winked.

“Let’s see what you got, my girl.” Teddy winked back but instantly regreted it when he felt the pull of the stitches. Y/n leaned down and delicately kissed his brow.

“Thank you.” Teddy replied as y/n captured his lips.

“You’re welcome. Now, buckle up Mr. Smith, it’s going to be a wild ride.” She said seductively and sensuously, and boy was she correct. Both of them were completely spent by the end of their escapades but to them, it was worth every damn second.

===

[burgers-and-french-fries]

Taron Egerton: Two Lines.

Note: Hello all, I am back today with another imagine that was requested on Wattpad. I thought that I would share it with all of you.

Please keep in mind that this is going to be a two part imagine so this is only the first part. The second part will be posted in a couple days or so.

Anyway, I hope that you enjoy this!

===

Scrambled eggs with cream cheese and chocolate chips, drizzled in sweet, sticky and gooey caramel sauce sounded particularly delightful to y/n. It had sounded delightful for the last few days without her or Taron knowing why. Like a trooper, Taron made his girlfriend her desired breakfast and set about getting himself ready for work.

“Babe, can you hand me the hot sauce?” Y/n asked around a mouthful of food. Taron gave her a strange look.

“Last time I ever heard you ask for hot sauce, you were on your period.” He lightly chuckled. Y/n rolled her eyes and held her hand out waiting for the item she had asked for.

“I can’t help it, it just tastes so good.” Y/n moaned as her tongue sampled all the flavors her fork held. Taron looked at her with visible disgust. The entire dish looked nauseating to him but as long as y/n was happy, that’s all that mattered to him.

“Seriously, you should try this.” Y/n said as she held her fork out for Taron.

Taron would be lying if he didn’t at least consider her offer but when the smell of it hit his nose, he declined.

“You enjoy it. I’d like to keep my breakfast down.” He responded before kissing his girlfriend’s cheek and heading to his meeting.

=

An hour later, y/n and her friend Marley sat outside and enjoyed the sun whilst Marley’s son Cal crawled around on the grass in front of them.

“Have you considered taking a pregnancy test?” Marley asked after y/n had filled her in on everything she’d been craving, eating, feeling and going through. She even admitted that she had felt bloated recently and her boobs had begun to hurt.

Y/n thought about it and shook her head. The thought had never crossed her mind until Taron’s comment about her period this morning and she realized that she had been late. Granted her period was only a day late and that wasn’t odd for y/n since she was known to be irregular at times.

“Why don’t we get Liz to buy some tests, drop them by and I’ll be here for moral support.” Marley kindly offered. Y/n looked at Cal who had started whimpering because a lady bug had landed on his chubby little leg.

“Cal honey, it’s ok. It won’t hurt you.” Y/n said as she rescued the little boy from his predicament. Cal sighed when the insect was gone and he continued on with his fun of crawling around.

“You are great with kids and I know that Taron would be an amazing father.” Marley said with a warm smile.

“Thanks.” Y/n replied.

“So, shall I text Liz?” Marley asked.

“No it’s ok. I think I’ll go and pick it up. I could use the drive to clear my head.” Y/n said. Marley nodded and took a drink of her water.

The women chatted for another hour before they parted ways and y/n went to buy her tests.

“Now we wait.” Y/n said to no one as she placed the cap back on the test and set it upside down so she couldn’t see it. She set her timer to the suggested wait time and went on to clean the flat to keep busy.

=

“Honey, I’m home!” Taron called in teasing.

“We’re in the kitchen.” Y/n called as she looked down at Nelly. Nelly looked up at her and licked her chops.

“Hello girls.” Taron greeted as he entered the kitchen.

“How was the meeting?” Y/n asked as she tended to the vegetables for their dinner. Taron shrugged and pinched a carrot, popping it into his mouth before leaving to go freshen up for the evening.

Y/n was too caught up in what she was doing to remember that she had taken the pregnancy and left it on the bathroom counter. The bathroom that Taron had just entered.

=

“Taron! Dinner!” Y/n shouted as she placed the salad bowl on the table and sat down to pour herself and Taron some wine.

Taron bounded down the stairs with a giddy skip in his step and an excited smile on his face but the smile disappeared when y/n took a drink of wine.

“What are you doing? You can’t have that.” Taron said as he hurried over and took the glass from her hand.

“Taron, what the hell man.” Y/n said, shocked by his actions. Taron shook his head and poured her wine into his glass, making his glass now completely full.

“I was drinking that, thank you very much.” Y/n grumbled, shooting her boyfriend a warning glare. He simply sat down and tucked into his food.

Y/n reached for the wine bottle to pour herself some more when Taron stopped her.

“Ok, what is your problem. I have slaved away at this meal, cleaned the house, took the dog for a walk, did the food shopping, did the laundry, made the bed and vacuumed. I think I deserve a little bit of this after a long day.” Y/n snapped. Taron looked taken back.

“Don’t look at me like that. You're the one who took my wine away. Not the other way around.” She continued. Taron raised an eyebrow at her.

“Oh for fuck sake. If you have something to say, just say it. Stop making faces at me expecting me to read your mind.” Y/n said as she angrily cut into her steak. Taron shook his head and mumbled under his breath.

“You’re not supposed to drink.” He said. Y/n dropped her fork and glared at him once more.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” She said as she shrugged in annoyance.

“Y/n, come on, I saw the test.” Taron said.

“What test?” Y/n asked with genuine confusion. Taron looked at her trying to figure out if she was serious or not.

“The pregnancy test. I saw it in the bathroom when I went to shower. It had two lines on it.” Taron spoke slowly. Y/n’s face paled. She had forgotten all about it with everything she had on her to-do list. That would explain why her phone timer had gone off.

Y/n put her head in her hands and rubbed her forehead. How could she have forgotten that. She wanted to surprise him but instead, it was ruined. She felt horrible for snapping at Taron now and for forgetting the test in the bathroom.

“You forgot about it didn’t you?” Taron asked with amusement. Y/n looked at him with tears in her eyes. Taron got off his chair and went around to her.

“Oh love, don’t cry. It’s ok.” He said as he tried to calm her down.

“I’m so sorry. I wanted to surprise you and I wrecked it all by snapping at you and by not remembering about it.” Y/n cried. Taron kissed the side of head as he hugged her to him.

“Don’t be sorry, love. What matters is that our baby is healthy and safe in your belly. It doesn’t matter how we found out, at least we know and we can spend the rest of the night talking about everything we get to do with this baby when they arrive.” He spoke softly. Y/n smiled at him and nodded before hugging him once more.

“I love you.” She muttered, pulling back to give him a gentle kiss.

“I love you too.” He replied.

Life was about to get hectic for them but they were ready and excited for what the future would bring.

===

[burgers-and-french-fries]

Taron Egerton: Boy or Girl (Two Lines) ~Part 2.

Note: This is the second part to an imagine I wrote for a follower of mine on Wattpad. I hope that you enjoy this as much as I enjoyed writing it.

I would also like to preface this by saying that there is a fake Instagram post at the end of this imagine. It is not not meant for malicious intent, it is purely for storyline purposes which means that I will not be sharing how I made it or what website I used.

Now, onto the story, enjoy!

*”I’m proper brickin’ it.” = “I’m shitting myself with nerves and fear etc.”

===

For the last eight months, y/n had endured some of the worst pregnancy symptoms imaginable. Backaches, nausea, break outs, heartburn, food cravings, food aversions, sleep insomnia, horrendous nightmares, leg cramps, restless legs, sinus issues due to increased blood flow, frequent urination. You name it, y/n had it all and she was beyond miserable. Nothing she tried would take her aches and pains away, not even Taron -who desperately wanted to help- could do anything. 

The one thing that y/n did cherish was Taron being home when he wasn’t busy with work which let’s face it, wasn’t very often. His schedule was jam packed and had caused him to miss appointments and ultrasounds which broke his heart. He was grateful that y/n had sneakily recorded a few little clips for him to watch later.

Tonight was no different. Taron had come home from work rather late and crawled into bed where y/n was watching tv and trying to make herself tired.

“How was work?” She asked, not taking her eyes off the tv. Taron shrugged and yawned. 

“Boring. I would much rather be home helping you around the house and whatnot.” He replied. Y/n smiled and shook her head.

“All I do is lay around and eat what I can. I’m practically a fat and lazy koala.” She said. Taron burst out laughing.

“I thought I was the koala in this relationship. Cute, cuddly and fucking viscious.” He teased, adding a playful growl. It was y/n’s turn to laugh hysterically. The couple falling into hearty guffaws at their silliness.

Not surprisingly, Taron was the first one to fall asleep which left y/n laying in a pitch black room, wondering what the next day would hold for her. She knew that she had a list of things to do such as laundry, dishes etc. but she had no idea where she would find the strength or energy to do any of it. 

Y/n sighed and turned over, hoping that she would get some sleep.

=

“Taron, have you seen my iron supplements?” Y/n asked as she rubbed her belly for the millionth time that morning. 

“Medicine cabinet.” He replied as he yawned and scratched his head, messing up his hair and making it stick out at odd ends even more.

Y/n sighed and nodded.

“What are you doing?” Taron asked when he felt her lean into his back.

“I don’t feel good.” She whined. Taron wanted to reply but y/n moaned and hugged his waist tighter. He knew right then that something wasn’t right. It was her way telling him she just wanted to cuddle because she was either sick or feeling low.

“Come here.” Taron said as he moved to properly hug y/n. She rested her head on his chest.

“I love you.” Y/n whispered as she felt Taron’s hands rub her back gently. Taron kissed the top of her head.

“I love you too Cariad.” Taron mumbled. Both of them enjoying each other’s embrace.

“I don’t think our baby likes me.” Y/n said sadly. Taron hummed and smiled against y/n’s hair.

“What makes you think that?” Taron asked.

“They keep making me wet myself and causing my belly so much pain.” She responded. Taron’s heart stopped and he cleared his throat.

“Y/n, are you sure you’re not in labor?” He asked, trying to keep his cool. She shook her head.

“It feels more like indigestion and the liquid is the consistency of pee.” She explained but Taron wasn’t convinced.

“How about we have a bath and then I can help you with washing the baby’s clothes and whatnot.” Taron offered. Y/n hummed in contentment.

“That sounds amazing, baby. Thank you.” She said as she lifted her head to kiss his lips tenderly.

=

Taron helped y/n into the warm bubbly water before going downstairs to get some little treats and of course some nice hot sweet tea which had been the most recent food craving. 

He wasn’t downstairs too long but by the time he got back to the bathroom, y/n had a pained look in her eye and shack was etched into her features. He quickly placed the items down and was at her side.

“What’s wrong honey?” He asked, feeling his anxiety levels rise.

“I think my water just broke.” She answered as calmly as she could. Taron gulped.

“What!” He shrieked. If she wasn’t so terrified, she would have burst out laughing at his tone.

“I don’t know what to do. I’m scared.” Y/n admitted. Taron had to shake himself out of it and put his acting skills to work and paint on a confident persona.

“I’m not going to lie to you, I’m proper brickin’ it right now but we’re going to take it as it comes. How are you feeling besides being scared? Any pain?” He asked. Y/n was surprised that he was able to remain as calm as he appeared despite admitting he was shitting himself.

“I’ve been in pain since before you came home last night.” Y/n told him. Taron nodded and took a deep breath.

“Well given that information you nutter, I think we should head to the hospital and get you checked out.” Taron replied. Y/n nodded and held her hands out for help.

=

Four hours and multiple contractions from hell later, y/n was propped up in a hospital bed with an IV sticking out of her arm whilst Taron scrolled through his phone on the makeshift bed he had set up not long after they got to their room.

“Taron, what if something is wrong with this one.” Y/n questioned as she rubbed her monitor strap clad belly. Taron put his phone down and made his way over to his girlfriend.

“Nothing is wrong, my darling. They seem happy with everything and you know I wouldn’t let anything bad happen to either of you.” He countered. Y/n wanted to reply but her body was slammed with another contraction.

Taron held her hand and brushed her hair back gently as she breathed through the excruciating wave of pain. 

“You’re doing so well babe. Just breathe.” He coached as he watched the monitor for when the contraction was ending.

“I hate this so much, Taz.” Y/n cried. She was so tired and she just wanted labor to be over. SHe wanted to hold her baby close and pepper little kisses on their tiny head and tiny hands.

“You are so close to the end. You are so strong and you got this. I know you do.” He whispered, kissing her lips lovingly.

“Can you get a nurse. I want to see if I’ve progressed past 3cms.” Y/n mumbled as she closed her eyes to catch her breath.

Taron pressed the call button and soon enough a nurse came all prepped and ready to check her patient.

“Ok y/n, let’s see how you’re doing, precious.” Nurse Mila said. Y/n nodded and reached for Taron. 

The nurse took her time in checking y/n to make sure she wasn’t missing anything and when she was satisfied that y/n’s body was progressing, she took off her gloves and gave the younger woman a warm smile.

“Please tell me that something has happened.” Y/n said. The nurse smiled.

“Y/n, you are advancing beautifully. I would say that within the next couple hours, you’ll be holding your little one.” The nurse replied.

“What does that mean?” Taron asked. 

“Y/n is 9 cms dilated.” The nurse smiled confidently. Y/n felt her nerves fire at her. SHe had no idea what would happen when the baby was born. She was only 34 weeks and she had so many articles online about how babies would be kept in the NICU for precautions.

“Will the baby be in the NICU when they’re born?” Y/n asked. 

“The baby’s vitals are very strong and haven’t faltered. There is nothing saying that your little one will be going there. Have no fear, angel. All will be well.” Nurse Mila replied. She had been doing her job for more than 30 years and was confident that y/n and her baby would be more than ok.

=

Just as Nurse Mila had said, y/n was one push away from meeting the one little person she had dreamt about all her life.

She was so excited to teach the baby how to walk, talk, crawl, throw a ball, dance, build things with Lego etc. She wanted all the things and the faster she pushed, the faster she could kiss the chubby cheeks she had seen in ultrasounds for the last eight months.

“That’s it y/n. You’re so strong.” Taron coached as he held y/n’s leg back as she pushed with all her might. 

“Alright my dear, take another breath and give me a small push.” The doctor instructed. Y/n nodded her head and gently pushed.

“That’s it. Good job.” Taron said as he peeked to where the doctor was working to free the baby from its umbilical cord. The baby wailing at the top of it’s little lungs as it was lifted onto its mother’s chest..

“Oh my fuck!” Y/n cried as the baby glared up at her. Taron was a blubbering mess but was so ecstatic that he was finally a dad.

“Taron, I did it.” Y/n said as she cried happy tears and caught her breath. He nodded and leaned down to give her a congratulatory kiss.

“I love you so much.” Taron said after breaking their sweet kiss. y/n weepily smiled up at him.

“I love you too.” She replied. 

“So mummy, what did you have?” Nurse Mila asked as she repositioned y/n’s pillow. 

Y/n carefully lifted the baby’s leg and started crying again.

“It’s a girl.” Y/n announced. Taron started giggling through his tears and gave the baby a small kiss on her forehead.

“Welcome to the world, Bella Jade.” The couple said in unison before smiling at each other cheerfully.

=== 

[burgers-and-french-fries]

Taron Egerton: Sonny’s Surprise.

Note: So this didn’t exactly turn out the way I wanted it to. It doesn’t have the smut in it I wanted but I feel like if I did add it, it would wreck the fluff. I also want to note that it is late for me right now and having written this imagine just now, I know it’s most likely riddled with mistakes but nevertheless, please enjoy it for what it is.

Enjoy!

===

Angel Martinez was your typical housewife. She woke up, got her 8-year-old son ready for school and got him to the school yard in record time but recently her schedule had changed. She and her husband  had decided about 9 months prior that they’d like to add another baby to their family, but fate had other ideas when they were told that twins would be arriving. Twin boys to be exact. She realized that she would have her hands full but with Taron by her side, she knew that they could conquer anything that came their way.

“Sonny, breakfast!” Angel called as she moved around the kitchen with Johnathan in the baby carrier. The other one -Taron jr or more commonly known, Tj- in his father’s arms as Taron sipped his morning coffee at the dining table.

“Coming mum!” The boy replied from his room.

“Can you take Sonny to soccer practice today?” Taron asked, popping a grape into his mouth. Angel turned around and gave her husband a sad look.

“I thought you said you had nothing on.” The woman stated. Taron looked up at her.

“Last minute meeting.” He replied. Angel rolled her eyes.

“Taron, he really wants you there. It’s their awards night.” Angel told him.

“I know it is but what do you want me to do? I can’t change it.” Taron spoke, just as Sonny raced around the corner.

“Morning bud. Did you sleep well?” Taron asked, not having seen his boy yet. Sonny nodded and smiled brightly.

“Yeah.” He replied, sitting in his favorite spot, next to his dad. Taron ruffled his hair, making Sonny groan in playful annoyance.

“Stop dad.” He spoke. Angel placed a plate of eggs, bacon and toast in front of the child.

“Eat up, you have a big day today.” Angel said. Sonny didn’t need to be told twice. He was a foodie just like his dad, there was no denying that.

“Slow down on the food other wise you’ll choke.” Angel warned, sitting down with the rest of her boys. She had been on her feet all morning making sure that everyone had all that they needed for the day, caring for the twins and making sure that Nelly went for her morning pee and got her breakfast. Speaking of Nelly, she was sitting at Taron’s feet, hoping that he’d drop a piece of bacon down to her like he always did when Angel wasn’t looking. This time though, Angel was.

“Don’t even think about it Egerton. That dog is spoilt enough.” Angel chastised. Taron gave her puppy eyes, but Angel wasn’t having it. She was about to say something when Sonny spoke up.

“Daddy, what time are you picking me up from school?” Sonny asked, wanting to be ready for Taron when he got there. Taron looked at his wife who raised her brow at him, as if challenging him.

Taron didn’t budge which made Angel roll her eyes for the millionth time that morning. He sure kept her on her toes, that was for sure.

“Sonny, I’m picking you up today. Dad’s got to work I’m afraid.” Angel replied gently. Sonny’s smile faded.

“But he promised.” Sonny said sullenly. Angel looked at her husband.

“Told you.” She muttered, loud enough for only Taron to hear.

“Mum’s right. I have to work. I’m sorry.” Taron tried but it wasn’t good enough the boy.

“You always say that.” Sonny replied, standing from his chair and taking his empty dish to the kitchen.

“That’s not fair.” Taron sulked.

“Taron, you always promise him things and then something happens where it’s me that has to pick up the pieces. I hate to say this, but Sonny is right. Sooner or later he’s going to start thinking that you don’t want to spend time with him.” Angel explained. Taron adjusted T.J in his arms and looked at the clock.

“I should get him to school and get to work.” Taron said, changing the subject.

“Taron, don’t push him away. I know he isn’t yours biologically, but he loves you and wants to be around you. You’re his hero. Don’t ruin that.” Angel said as Taron stood up and placed T.J in the baby swing.

Taron nodded his head, letting Angel know that he heard her and left to help Sonny get ready for school.

=

Four hours later, Taron was standing at the airport waiting for Angel’s mother. Taron and Ina had been in contact and planning a surprise trip for her so that she could attend Sonny’s awards night.

The only way that Taron could think to keep the surprise quiet was to tell his wife and stepson that he had a meeting and was unable to take Sonny to soccer.

“There you are my boy.” Ina said as she hurried toward her son-in-law. Taron beamed brightly and opened his arms for her to step into.

“It’s good to see you, Ina.” Taron said.

“You too Taron. Now, do they suspect anything?” Ina asked, pulling away from the hug. Taron scratched the back of his neck and nervously bit his lower lip.

“I may have told them that I had a last-minute meeting that I couldn’t get out of, and they think I can’t make it tonight.” He explained. Ina looked at Taron in surprise.

“I bet that didn’t go over too well.” Ina replied.

“Not really. Sonny got really sad, and your daughter told me that if I’m not careful, Sonny would think I don’t want to spend time with him since I do this frequently.” He responded. Ina nodded and sighed.

“Well, don’t worry about that now. I think this surprise visit will put you in the good books again with my daughter and the cool stepdad books with my grandson again.” Ina said.

“I hope so.” He replied and they made their leave to the carpark.

=

“Angel, I’m home.” Taron called as Ina stood on the front porch waiting for Taron’s signal.

“Living room.” Angel called back. Taron walked toward his wife and saw her sitting on the sofa dressed in her cozy pj top and his grey sweatpants.

“You look cozy.” He commented, leaning down to give her lips a sweet kiss. Angel smiled into it.

“I am. How was the meeting?” She questioned. Taron grinned at her.

“I never had a meeting.” He admitted. Angel shot him a glare.

“Don’t let look at me like that. I can explain, ok.” He spoke.

“Start talking Egerton because I can tell you right now, I’m not at all impressed.” Angel said, her voice wavering between calm and angry.

Taron quickly grabbed his phone and sent Ina a bird emoji….their signal.

“Taron, I really don’t have time for games. I’d like to watch the rest of this show before having to get Sonny.” Angel said.

“Hola Mija.” Ina said, coming to stand beside Taron. Angel looked at her husband with shock.

“Taron?” Angel asked, needing an explanation.

“I knew how much tonight meant to Sonny and I know how much your mum means to him too. I thought I’d -we- would surprise you.” Taron explained.

“Come give me a hug.” Ina said to her daughter. Angel happily embraced her mother. She hadn’t been able to see her mother in a couple years since the pandemic started so this was a huge surprise. One she didn’t know she needed.

=

Taron, Ina and Angel spent the next little bit catching up before Angel went to pick Sonny up. It was arranged that Taron and Ina would meet Angel at the soccer field and that where they would surprise Sonny with the fact that not only did Taron show up but that his Abuela was there as well.

“Mum, can we just go home?” Sonny asked as Angel stopped at a red light.

“Why? I thought you wanted to go to soccer tonight.” Angel said. Sonny shrugged.

“Not without dad.” Sonny replied, looking out his window at the passing buildings.

“I know you want him to be there honey.” Angel said, pulling into the parking lot. Sonny sighed and slowly unbuckled his seatbelt, not realizing that it wasn’t his mum that opened the car door but Taron.

“How was school?” He asked. Sonny’s head shot up.

“Dad!” He shouted. He was beyond thrilled that Taron was able to join them after all. Sonny threw his arms around Taron’s neck and hugged him as tight as his small arms would allow him.

“What about my hug mijo?” Ina questioned, mocking hurt.

“Abuela!” Sonny shouted as he broke the hug with Taron. Taron watched as Sonny raced toward his grandmother with such enthusiasm.

“You know I love you right?” Angel asked as she pushed the pram toward her husband. Tarn beamed and grasped her hand in his.

“I love you too, my Angel.” He whispered, stopping her to lean in for a tender kiss.

Both of them knowing what the night would hold. I mean, Angel had to show her gratitude for her husband and all he did for her and their kids somehow😏

 ===

[burgers-and-french-fries]

Hi all, 

I have entered the land of sickness again (🙄) and I’m looking to write some imagines to keep me occupied while I’m laid up in bed. So, if you have any requests, send them my way either via inbox or through private message.

Thanks❤️

===

Who I write for:

Taron Egerton (and any of his characters) 

Richard Madden (and any of his characters)

Scott Eastwood (and any of his characters)

Evan Peters (and any of his characters)

Note: I am open to writing for any female actors and characters that they play as well.

[burgers-and-french-fries]

~James Keene: The Final Ex-scape.

Note: Please ignore all the spelling and grammatical errors in this imagine. It’s late when I’m writing thing this. I would like to apologize for this as I carried away with the angst and forgot to add the smut, but I promise you that I do have another imagine coming soon and that one will be smutty. 

There was a prompt that the requester asked me to use for Jimmy and you find that prompt highlighted in bold writing.

Also, the video I have added at the top of this page is the clip I used for the exchange scene between the judge and Jimmy for this storyline.

===

Jimmy Keene had been in prison for about 17 months and in that time, he went through hell and back trying to elicit a confession from suspected serial killer, Larry Hall. If you asked him what he learned during that time, he’d tell you that it was that you had to appreciate every little thing because it can be taken away from you in an instant. He also learned that his girlfriend, Sabrina was possibly one of the most patient and supportive people he knew. She put up with prison visits, looks from other inmates at the facility and she was still running his ‘business’ for him while he was on the inside. As far as he was concerned, she was a saint, though Jimmy knew she’d tell him other wise.

 Sitting in the courtroom waiting for his last court date to commence, Jimmy looked around for Sabrina, but she was nowhere to be seen. It made Jimmy think back to the very last visit he and Sabrina shared. It was odd to say the least. She was more fidgety than normal and kept looking around. What he didn’t realize was that Sabrina’s eyes had landed on a familiar face. One that she never thought she’d have to see again. One that belonged to her ex, Tom Carter.

 Sabrina had finally come to terms with how toxic their relationship was and just how lucky she was to make it out in one piece. You see, while Carter had a sweet side, he also had a side to him that was manipulative, mean and cruel. It was a side that Sabrina saw more of as their relationship flourished.

Eventually Sabrina made her mind up to leave but that came with a whole new list of problems. Carter continuously called her, drove past her house when he thought she was home, stalked her at work and would often have flowers delivered to her house. All of which annoyed Sabrina to no end. Thankfully that all ended when Carter moved to Missouri. Sabrina felt free and like she was able to move on with her life which is when Jimmy entered the picture. Sure he did what he did, but he was so much better than her ex and he made her feel like she was worth something. Like she was worth more than the world to Jimmy, even if she was known as his secret girlfriend.

Of course Carter’s jealous streak became more intense toward Jimmy when he realized that Sabrina had moved on to dating what he viewed as a scumbag inmate. A spoilt cop’s kid. Carter could feel his blood boil at the sight of Sabrina and Jimmy together but seeing how Sabrina reacted when their eyes locked, he felt like he had the power. He knew he had to break the pair apart which is when his evil plan of snitching on Jimmy came into play. More than that though, he had planned to pay his ex a little visit when he next had time off. This would be sweet revenge. Revenge neither Jimmy nor Sabrina would see coming. Revenge that would see the end of their relationship.

 =

Throughout the night, Sabrina had tossed and turned as her mind spun at more than a hundred miles per hour with different scenarios. Some of them were about Jimmy and how she couldn’t wait to move far away from everything, some were about Jimmy’s impending court date in which he would officially be freed, and the majority of those thoughts were consumed with memories of her past relationship with Carter.

Since seeing him, Sabrina had been on edge. She could tell by the look in his eye that he didn’t like the idea of her with anyone else, especially when it came to her being with an inmate. She knew that Carter had a thing, a grudge if you will, about inmates and how they were the scum of the earth and how they should serve others for all the shit they had done. It was part of the reason he took the job as C.O in the facility. Power over them and power over their emotions. A power to manipulate them into doing what he wanted, and Jimmy was no exception as Sabrina would soon come to know.

The next morning at 6am, Sabrina had well and truly given up on sleep. No matter how hard she tried to shut off her brain, nothing seemed to help so instead, she got up and picked out what she was going to wear to the courthouse where she had promised Jimmy she would be there to support him. She knew that he was nervous, scared and anxious that they would turn around and change their minds, telling him that he had to do more and that they were sending him back. She knew that he had been having awful nightmares. She just wanted to hug him, kiss him and tell him that as long as she lives, nothing and no one was ever going to touch him, hurt him or terrorize him again. It was a promise that she intended to keep. Or at least for now.

Stretching her arms above her head, Sabrina smiled to herself. Sure, she was exhausted but this was the last morning that she’d be waking up without Jimmy next to her. So many nights she’d imagine his body next to hers. His body with no shirt, no pants, no boxers, nothing but complete nakedness. A nakedness that made her stomach flip with attraction and lust. A nakedness that only she got to see. A nakedness that made her feel so close to him. Yeah, she really missed him.

Throwing her bed together, Sabrina went about her morning chores before jumping into the shower and getting ready for what would come. Unfortunately for her, she would never make it to the courthouse, making Jimmy think that she didn’t care in the end and decided to leave him now that he was on the outside and less exciting so to speak.

=

When Sabrina had gotten dressed and gathered her belongings into the bag she had recently purchased, a knock could be heard from the front door. She thought it was odd but figured that maybe it was Crystal popping by as she had promised she would before Sabrina left for the day.

Happily skipping to the door, Sabrina beamed as she opened the door. Her smile faded though when her eyes landed on Carter. Her heart plummeted to her stomach, which felt as though it would fall out of her butt. Her palms grew sweaty, and her body started shaking with fear. She had no idea why he was here, but she was almost certain that it wasn’t good.

“T-Tom, what do you want?” She spoke, trying to be strong and stand her ground like Jimmy had told her to do in tense situations.

“Hello Sabrina.” He said with a sly yet devious smirk on his face.

He stepped forward to which Sabrina took a weary step back. She was petrified and Carter knew it. It was like he could smell her fear.

Carter looked around at the place. It was too grand for his liking. The interior was pretty much white with pops of colour here and there, not forgetting the fancy knickknacks that were scattered around strategically.

“Come on now, is that anyway to greet your guest?” He mocked as Sabrina stood there silently, trying to calm herself. Oh how she wished Jimmy was with her right now.

“Ah yes, the silent treatment. Brings back memories, does it not.” Carter said, turning his attention to her. She felt stuck. Like she couldn’t move.

“Shame the boyfriend isn’t here to see this or to protect you.” Carter teased. Sabrina chewed the inside of her cheek. It wasn’t like her to stay as quiet as a mouse but when it came to this particular person and being in his presence, it was best to do so and let him speak until he’d had his say.

“He has better manners than you ever had.” Carter spoke again. Sabrina’s eyes went to her feet.

Carter took this opportunity to stalk toward the woman, whilst looking her up and down the way he used to before he would assault her.

Sabrina could feel her skin crawl as he came to a complete stop in front of her. She wanted so desperately to look him in the eye and tell him where to get off but no matter how much she wanted to, her brain wouldn’t allow it. She was frozen.

“Let me see those pretty eyes.” Carter all but whispered as he tilted her face up to look at him.

“Don’t fucking touch me.” She said, surprising herself with how strong of a tone her voice held.

“What did you just say to me?” Carter asked. He had heard her as clear as day but wanted to give her a chance to adjust the attitude he thought she had.

“I said, don’t fucking touch me.” She said as she pushed him away. Big mistake.

=

“Mr. Keen, when last you stood before this court, you carried an air of entitlement. You actually wore it like someone would wear their clothes or their skin. Where’d it go, son?” The judge spoke as he looked at Jimmy and his now almost defeated body language.

“I don’t know, your honor.” Jimmy spoke softly into the mic as he shuffled on his feet slightly. His hands clasped together tightly under the lectern, in hopes of appearing somewhat confident in the eyes of the court.

The judge took a small breath before continuing to speak.

“Well, judging by the brief presented to me by Mr. Beaumont, I would venture that you left it behind in that hell that you entered on behalf of this case.” The judge spoke, making Jimmy hold his breath for what was coming next. This was the moment he had been waiting for, but he was waiting for the hammer to fall and for someone to laugh at him and tell him that this was all a joke, and he wasn’t really being let go.

That wasn’t the case though. The judge sighed and slipped his glasses on.

“Mr. Keene, the court hereby commutes your sentence of 120 months for narcotics trafficking. This commutation is full without conditions and effective immediately.” The judge explained as Jimmy began to tear up. The relief he felt was unlike anything he’d ever experienced in his life. Not even when he scored the winning touchdown for his team on game night.

The judge hit the gavel and spoke for the last time.

“You’re a free man, Mr. Keene.” He spoke. Jimmy bowed his head as he felt his lower lip begin to quiver. This was a big moment for him, and it was one he had hoped his girlfriend had slipped in to see.

Jimmy shuffled on his feet and sniffled into the mic before lifting his head and looking around to see if he could see Sabrina. His heart broke a little when he didn’t. He turned back to the judge and composed himself enough to thank him.

 =

Four days later, Jimmy still hadn’t seen or heard from Sabrina which was worrying him. She hadn’t come to see him, and she hadn’t called him which was strange.  Jimmy had no clue what was going on and he was beginning to get a sinking feeling. It would only get worse when he went to see if Sabrina was at work.

“What can I do for you?” Bob asked as Jimmy walked up to the bar and sat down.

“I’m here for Bri.” Jimmy replied casually.

“I’ll take this Bob.” Crystal said as she overheard. Bob nodded and walked away.

“Crystal, what’s going on?” Jimmy asked, leaning forward.

“Not going to lie Jimmy. Bri’s in the hospital.” Crystal answered, not wanting to beat around the bush. Jimmy’s heart dropped and his face paled.

“Why?” He questioned with worry.

“Carter turned up and beat the shit out of her. Claimed he was getting even. At least that’s what Bri told me when I went to see her last night.” The woman explained.

That was all Jimmy needed. He stood abruptly and stormed out the door. God help Carter. Crystal had learned that no one messes with Jimmy Keene or his loved ones.

=

Sabrina stared up at the ceiling as she let her tears fall freely, despite the stinging sensation it gave her when the tears would roll over the small cuts that littered her face from the vase that was shattered over her head.

The deep gash on her chin itched as the stitches worked to heal the skin back together. The bruising on her jaw hurt like shit and don’t get her started on the broken bones and the pain down below. That was one of the worst beatings she had gotten in a long time, and she didn’t know who to blame. Herself or Jimmy. Jimmy seemed the easiest to blame as he had put her in the situation of seeing Carter again but then again, she could have left as soon as she saw him at the prison. Or maybe she could have checked to see who was at the door before she opened it…Maybe.

“How are you feeling?” The nurse asked as she walked in after instructing Jimmy to wait outside.

“Numb.” Sabrina answered. It was something.

The nurse hummed in reply.

“A Mr. Keene is here. Says you know him?” The nurse said, changing the subject.

“I don’t want to see him.” Sabrina said. She didn’t want him to see her like this. Broken.

“Are you sure?” The nurse asked.

“I don’t want him to see me like this.” Sabrina replied as her tears flowed at a steadier pace and her breathing got ragged.

“Very well, miss Martinez.” The woman responded as she walked toward the door.

“I know it’s not my place but if it’s any consolation, he seems like he hasn’t slept. I think he just wants to know that you’re safe.” The nurse said before disappearing from Sabrina’s room but not before allowing Jimmy to walk in.

“She’s right. I haven’t slept.” Jimmy told Sabrina as he walked over to her.

Sabrina turned her head from him but instantly regretted that when her head started throbbing.

“I thought you changed your mind.” Jimmy said, trying to keep things light.

“I didn’t but I have now.” She replied, hurting Jimmy. He sat down next to her.

“You don’t mean that.” He spoke.

“Yes, Jimmy. I do mean that.” She said.

Jimmy sighed and tried not to let his emotions show too soon.

“I don’t need any more trouble in my life.” Sabrina told him.

“So, I’m trouble.” He replied humourlessly.

“You’re a convict Jimmy. Scum.” She said, hoping that he’d get the picture and leave her. She just couldn’t do it anymore. She was worth nothing and Carter had made sure to drill that into her head. She wanted Jimmy to be free of her. She didn’t want him to be saddled with her and her baggage. He was too good for that.

“I’m not scum, Bri.” He said and she could tell by the tone of his voice that she had wounded him.

“You’re a fucking idiot Jimmy. You got what you deserved, and I don’t need you dragging me down more than you have already.” She said.

“Why are you doing this Sabrina?” He asked. He knew this wasn’t her, but he wouldn’t lie, her words were hurting his heart.

“Don’t you get it Jimmy, I’m no good anymore. He ruined me.” Sabrina said more firmly, turning to face him.

Jimmy cringed when he saw her face. He felt awful for what she had to go through, and he felt beyond guilty for not being there with her. For not being able to protect her.

“Oh baby.” Jimmy said as he reached out to take her hand, but she stopped him.

“Don’t pity me. Don’t you fucking dare pity me. I’m not some cheap tramp you can control Jimmy. Fuck this and fuck you!” Sabrina spat, raising her voice.

“Fine. You don’t want me in your life, whatever but don’t insult me and don’t insult yourself. You knew what you were getting into when we started dating. You knew the risks. I know you aren’t a cheap tramp and I know that you feel broken and damaged, but you are anything but that. You are the strongest and bravest person I know.” Jimmy replied.

“No, I’m not.” Sabrina whispered.

“I’m naive, stupid, reckless, worthless and dumb for not looking who was at the door before opening it to the can of worms I thought I had gotten rid of when he moved to Missouri for that stupid C.O. job.” Sabrina finished off as she started crying again.

Jimmy felt sad for the woman in front of him. He knew that she was blaming herself for what happened, and he knew that she wouldn’t stop.

“Sabrina, none of this is your fault. He was the one that found you. He’s the one that attacked you. He was the one that caused this. Not you.” Jimmy said.

“You were the one that wasn’t there. Not like I had hoped you’d be in the beginning. I thought you were different.” She said.

“Why do you keep saying that?” Jimmy huffed. He was getting annoyed with why she kept insulting him.

“Because you’re right, I’m not the only one at fault here. If you hadn’t been trafficking narcotics and God knows what else, I wouldn’t have had to run your ‘business’ for you while you were gone, I wouldn’t have had to see Carter again and I wouldn’t be laying in the hospital pretty much beaten to a pulp, trying to push my boyfriend away.” Sabrina shouted. She had had enough at this point.

“Look, I’m tired and I need to rest. Can you just go now?” Sabrina questioned.

Jimmy swallowed down his emotions and nodded slightly, sighing and letting a disappointed smiled pull at his lips.

“Call me when you’re done blaming the wrong people.” Jimmy said as he hurried to the door.

“Jimmy, wait.” Sabrina called. Yes she was mad, but she needed him. She blamed him but she blamed herself more.

He stopped and turned to her with tears in his eyes.

“What?” He hoarsely questioned.

“I love you.” She mumbled but he heard her.

“I told you not to fall in love with me.” He replied, now cutting her deeply.

She didn’t say anything else. She couldn’t.

Unfortunately, he had left the room by the time she thought of what to say next. Now she felt even worse about the entire situation.

=

Six months later, Jimmy and Sabrina were still not talking to each other and even though it hurt Sabrina more than she thought it would, she was able to get her feet back on the ground. She moved into a new place, started going to therapy and she got a new job. Her life was turning around but the one thing missing from it was Jimmy. Oh how she wished he could see how far she’d come. He’d be proud.

Jimmy on the other hand had done the best he could but inside, he was a mess. He missed Sabrina and missed the life he had with her. He kicked himself everyday from walking away so easily. She was his life and he let her slip through his fingers when she needed him the most. Maybe she was right, and he was no different than the men Sabrina had been with before him.

The man led a very despairing life these days.

“Sorry I’m late, meeting ran late. Were you waiting long?” Jimmy asked as he pulled his coat and scarf off.

Jimmy had called Sabrina and asked her to meet him at the pub they first met at. Sabrina was hesitant at first but decided that it would be ok to sit down with an old friend.

“You’re not late.” Sabrina replied as Jimmy sat down on the other side of her.

“You said you wanted to talk about something.” Sabrina said, cutting to the chase.

“I wanted to tell you that I loved you too.” He replied, making Sabrina frown at him in confusion.

“What?” She asked.

“That day, you told me that you loved me. I didn’t say it back.” He explained.

Sabrina nodded.

“I remember now.” She replied.

“Is that all you wanted to tell me?” She asked and Jimmy shook his head.

“No. I also wanted to tell you that I had come to the hospital that day with two things in my pocket.” He told her.

“And what were they?” She wondered out loud.

“Tickets to Jamaica and this.” Jimmy spoke as he pulled out a small black velvet box, handing it to Sabrina.

Sabrina’s heart stopped. She slowly opened the box to reveal her dream engagement ring that she had showed him one night. More specifically, she showed him a few weeks before he was originally arrested.

“How long have you had this ring?” Sabrina asked.

“Two years.” He said simply.

Sabrina looked at him and then back at the ring.

“I was going to propose.” He told her.

“Really?” Sabrina asked, trying not to get her hopes up too high.

“I had a promise to fulfil.” He answered.

“What promise was that exactly?” Sabrina inquired.

“To take you and move far away from this place and to start over.” He replied.

“I see.” Sabrina said as she closed the box and placed it down on the table.

“Bri, the promise still stands. If you’re interested that is.” Jimmy said as he took the box and opened it again, presenting it to Sabrina.

“After everything I put us both through, you still want to marry me?” She asked. She had to be sure.

“Only if you agree not to fall in love with me.” He replied with a hint of cheek and humor in his eye. It was exactly what Sabrina needed. She nodded her head enthusiastically and smiled brightly for the first time in such a very long time, making Jimmy’s heart leap for joy.

He had his girl back and this time, it was forever.

===

@elizami11s​

[burgers-and-french-fries]

Taron Egerton: Deal.

Note: Hello all my beautiful friends. I want to wish you all a very happy Valentine’s day. I know that it may be a little late but in my eyes, love is something to be celebrated all day every day. With that said, I wrote this imagine for you all at the request of a wonderful person who wishes to remain anonymous.

I did have a lot of fun with this despite the fact that this turned into something on the angsty side due to ‘that time of the month’ and raging hormones. Anyway, my point is that you may need to prepare yourself for a soft and vulnerable Taron.

I also want to add that I wrote this imagine as though scenes for a movie were being filmed. I decided that I was going to have the movie in this imagine directed by Gary Marshall’s (God rest his soul) daughter, Kathleen Marshall. So if you see the name Kathleen throughout this, that’s who I’m referring to. I also want to mention that because there are movie scenes in this, I will let you know when the movie comes into play so that you aren’t confused.

Keep that in mind as you read because Taron will be the character Caleb Harrison whilst Y/n Y/l/n will be the character of Jennifer or Jen.

With all of that being said, I hope that you enjoy this imagine and to my anon requester, I wish you all the best for today and want to say a huge thank you to you for all of your patience with me.

Enjoy!

P.S: Here is a mock movie poster I made for the imagine that will be below the image❤

===

(Filming)

“Yeah, if I actually believed that, we would be together right now but evidently, we’re not and let me just say it; thank fuck for that.” Jen said as she shouted at her friend on the other end. 

“There is nothing wrong with him, Jen.” Marni replied. Jennifer scoffed and rolled her eyes. If she had to hear one more person stand up for the man in question, she was going to scream. He was arrogant, rude and so egotistical it made her sick.

“Are you hearing yourself right now? Why are you standing up for him?” Jennifer asked incredulously. Marni sighed.

“Look, it’s up to you but it’s only one date and it’s not like you’ll be alone, I’ll be there too with Cameron.” Marni tried.

“Girl, you fucking owe me.” Jen said, giving into her friend's desire to go on a double date with them and Cameron’s work colleague, Caleb Harrison.

“Thank you Jen.” Marni said with a smarmy tone.

“Don’t make me puke please.” Jen replied before hanging up her phone.

(Not filming)

“CUT!” The director called as she stood up from her chair.

“Y/n, that was brilliant but for the next few scenes, we need even more emotion from you. You have to really amp up the anger.” Kathleen said, really emphasizing her words with expressive hand gestures. Y/n had to giggle.

“I actually had some questions in regards to the double date scene and I was wondering if we could talk about them?” Y/n asked Kathleen. Kathleen nodded and gave the other woman a warm smile, leading her to the coffee & snacks table so they could talk more privately.

=

“So, are you going to finally grow a pair and tell her how you feel?” Karlie asked Taron as she sat next to him. Taron looked up from his script and raised a brow at her in question.

“Oh come on you tit, it’s obvious you have feelings for her. You tease her all the fucking time and it’s actually quite nauseating to watch.” Karlie continued. Taron chuckled but shook his head in complete denial.

“I do not like her at all.” He scoffed, making Karlie roll her eyes.

“Well, you better tell her how you feel soon because I hear that she’s ready to quit the movie.” Karlie said slyly, watching for Taron’s reaction in the corner of her eye.

Taron had to at least admit to himself that he was absolutely head over heels, sick to his stomach, heart racingly, mind blowingly in love with the American beauty. Everything about her made his world turn on its axis and knock the breath from his lungs.

Her long y/h/c locks delicately cascaded down her back and framed her face beautifully. Her y/e/c eyes shone so magnificently against the lights of the studio. They reminded him of the rarest and most precious gemstones in the world. Her entire being made his belly flip and his heart flutter against his rib cage. Her laugh was music to his ears and her smile was enough to melt even the coldest of hearts. She was the very definition of an angel.

There had been many times throughout the duration of this project where he hadn’t thought of how her legs would feel around his waist, how her lips would feel against his, how her perfectly sensuous body would fit in his sinewy arms. He wanted to be with her in every shape and every form. He was so in love with her.

“Earth to lover boy. Stop staring at her. Just go talk to her, why don't you?” Karlie said as she rolled her eyes once more.

“Can you just stop? I'll talk to her in my own time, thanks.” Taron snapped as he closed his script, got up and stormed off.

“Right then, I guess he doesn't want to talk about it.” Karlie  said as she got up and left to the coffee and snacks table.

The rest of the day went ok but of course Taron kept to his old tricks and continued teasing y/n. Karlie kept giving Taron encouraging looks which he frowned at. What neither of them noticed was that y/n saw it and kept wondering if there was something going on that she had no idea about.

Y/n shook it off and tried her best to focus on her scenes whilst her head spun with everything Kathleen had given her the green light on doing when it came to filming the double date scene the next day.

=

“Good morning sunshine. How are we today?” Karlie sing-songed as she practically skipped cheerily toward Taron.

“Bad hangover?” She asked through a snort. Taron ignored her and took a long drink of his coffee. It wasn’t that he was hungover, no. He simply tossed and turned all night trying to get y/n out of his head but with his ever so kind hotel neighbors going at it like rabbits, it was so difficult for him so he decided to take a walk around the city, drinking coffee and wondering what it would be like if y/n was out with him, walking, talking and laughing with him whilst holding his hand. He longed to be near her.

When he got back to the hotel though, he saw y/n standing outside the hotel building with her back to him. He smiled to himself and decided to take that moment as his chance to tell her how he felt. He reached out his arm to tap her shoulder but when he heard that she was on the phone, his heart dropped. He heard what she had said.

“He’s the scum of the earth and he’s the last person I’d ever be with. He makes me sick to my stomach.” She said and then went silent as she listened to the person on the other end. 

Taron’s stomach twisted into knots but he couldn’t move. He wanted to hear that it wasn’t him she was talking about but when his name fell from her lips, he had to swallow the lump in his throat. He was beyond gutted and he stormed off in a hurry to get to the safety of his room.

“Are you ready for your closeup today Mr. Deville?” Karlie teased. 

“Karlie, I’m really not in the mood.” He said, adjusting his sunglasses on his nose. He walked to the makeup trailer.

Karlie watched in confusion. Normally Taron was so cheery in the morning and was happy to see his colleagues but with his solemn mood, she knew that something had to have happened between now and yesterday after work.

The woman took a deep breath and slowly walked to set as she had already been done up for all her scenes.

=

(filming)

“Stop fidgeting.” Cameron said as he removed the fork from Caleb’s hand. Caleb looked at his friend with a nervous glint in his eye. 

“I can’t help it.” He replied. A little bit of Taron showing through. 

“Why are you so nervous? It’s not like you’ve never been around her before.” Cameron said. Caleb huffed out a breath and sat back but not before beginning to bounce his leg.

“I could use a drink. How about you Caleb?” Marni asked. Caleb nodded and gave the woman a tight lipped smile in thanks.

Marni got up and made her way to the bar to order some strong drinks. She knew things were going to become even more awkward once Jen arrived.

“I hope to fuck those drinks are strong.” Jen said as she laid her hand on her friend’s back. Marni smiled and threw her arms around Jen in a warm and friendly embrace.

“The strongest.” Marni replied as she broke the hug and handed Jen’s drink to her. Both of them making their way toward the men.

“We were beginning to wonder if you’d even show up.” Cameron said as he stood up to let his girlfriend back into her spot as well as to greet Jennifer. Jen looked at Caleb and then back at her friends.

Jen wanted to reply but she knew that her expression was enough to tell them all how she really felt about this entire situation. She was not happy to be there and she really wanted to turn and run.

“Shall we sit down then and order food?” Marni asked, breaking the awkward silence. Caleb was the first one to nod and the last one to sit down after letting Jen into the booth so she could sit next to Marni.

“So Jen, how’s work treating you?” Cameron asked. Jen shrugged.

“Same as always I guess.” She replied simply. 

“Interesting.” Cameron said. Caleb tried to stop himself but his words slipped out before he could stop them.

“What do you do for work?” He asked, inwardly face palming himself. Jennifer looked at him with a slight frown on her features. Caleb felt his body shrink back. He averted his gaze to look at the cutlery on the table. Jen cleared her throat.

“I own a dog grooming center.” She answered. Caleb didn’t look at her and instead motioned for the waiter. He needed to eat so that his mouth would be busy and he couldn’t speak anymore.

(Not filming)

‘CUT!” Kathleen called before smiling widely. She was so happy with how the chemistry was between the four people in this current scene but she was a little concerned when Taron broke character to look at the table. She shrugged it off as something he thought Caleb would do but deep down, she knew something was going on.

During the lunch break, Karlie, y/n and Sam talked amongst themselves while Taron took off to his trailer. He was still feeling the effects of the glare that y/n gave him, even if it was scripted. He couldn’t shake the feeling that her glare was something she truly felt the need to do and if her words from the previous night were anything to go by, she really loathed him and detested the fact they had to film this scene.

“Hey Taron, come join us.” Sam as he called. Taron started walking toward them but then he stopped. Did he really want to be around y/n right now? Of course he did, who was he kidding? He was a month unto her salacious flame.

“Everything ok?” Sam asked as he handed a coffee to Taron. Taron nodded and sat down.

“Anyone want to get drunk tonight? We have the weekend off.” Karlie asked the small group.

“Yeah, why not.” Sam and Taron replied in unison. Y/n had yet to reply because she was fixated on Taron’s eyes. They held a deep sadness to them. A sadness she had never seen on anyone before. 

Taron started feeling uncomfortable so once again, his teasing words slipped from his lips.

“What about you short stuff?” He asked with a slight chuckle. Y/n grew angry. She had had enough of his constant teasing her. At first she didn’t mind it because it wasn’t incessant but as the days grew into weeks and so on, she became the butt of his jokes. He made fun of her hair and how wavy it got in the southern heat, he made fun of how close together her eyes were, how small her ears were, her accent, how she walked. Everything about her, he’d find some way to tear her down and make her feel worse about herself.

“What the fuck is your problem?!” She shouted at him. Taron sat there stunned. As did Sam and Karlie. 

“Why do you make it your mission to make me feel so insecure about myself. Why do you think it’s funny to make me feel as small as humanly possible?” She started. It felt so good to yell at him and unleash all her feelings on him. She wanted him to know what a scumbag he was being.

“How the fuck would you like it if I made fun of how small your hands are or make fun of the gap in your teeth, or the mark on your neck. To make fun of your accent, how your ears are shaped, how short you are for a man or how your hair resembles that of someone that stuck a fork in a toaster. You’re a dick and I really wish you’d go to hell!” Y/n screamed at him before storming off, letting her tears fall.

Taron sat there and felt his heart break at her words. He never thought his teasing would cause her so much pain but then to have her point out all the things he felt insecure about really made him feel sick. He felt the bile rise in his throat. With Karlie and Sam still looking at him, he got up and left for his trailer. If he didn’t hurry, he’d embarrass himself even further by vomiting in front of everyone.

=

Later that night, y/n opted to sit in the silent corner of the rooftop bar and look out over the city and admire all the twinkling lights below. She was so in her own world that she didn’t hear Taron walk toward her.

He stood there not saying anything and admired how peaceful she looked despite the sad vibes  that vibrated from her.

“If you’ve come to make fun of me some more, I’ll push you off the fucking roof.” She said, not taking her eyes off the lights for fear of crying again.

“Karlie and Sam refuse to talk to me until we work things out.” He admitted. Y/n shook her head in disbelief.

“What is there to work out Taron. You hate me. You made that very clear.” She replied. Taron’s shoulders fell. He felt beyond guilty for making her feel as low as she told him. He honestly never meant to hurt her the way he did.

“Y/n I-” He started before she stood up and stared angrily at him again. Once again, Taron swallowed the lump in his throat.

“I don’t even want to hear your excuses. You’ve been a miserable twat all day.”  She said, walking past him.

“I heard you on the phone.” He blurted out, making y/n stop in her tracks. She turned to look at him.

“What are you talking about?” She asked with confusion. Taron looked at her with the same sadness she had seen earlier in the day.

“I heard you say that I was the scum of the earth and that I make you sick to your stomach. That you’d never be with someone like me.” He told her. Y/n felt her heart sink but that didn’t stop her from being mad at him still.

“And you thought that made it ok to pick on me today or the whole time we’ve been working together?” She said, a little softer. Taron couldn’t find the words to say so he stayed silent.

“Well?” She said. Taron looked up at her and bit his lower lip.

“I saw you standing outside last night and I was going to tell you that I-” He said but stopped himself.

“That doesn’t answer my question.” She stated. 

“I was going to tell you that I like you but then I heard what you said. Seeing you today just reminded me of how you really feel about me and then you had to go and say those things to me this afternoon.” Taron said, trying not to let his tears slip. Y/n saw his chin wobble as he tried to breathe calmly.

“Words are such damaging things, Taron.” She said. He nodded and looked away from her. Y/n sighed and walked closer to him. 

“I wasn’t talking about you. I was talking to my sister about her boyfriend.” She admitted. Taron still didn’t look at her. “I only said your name because she asked me what it was.” She continued.

“You know that if you had actually used your words properly, you would have found that I liked you too.” She told him as she took hold of his hand, making him face her. She could see the impact of her words in the form of tear streaks on his cheeks.

Y/n pulled him in for a hug.

“I’m sorry y/n. I didn’t mean to make you feel insecure. I didn’t realize how much my words affected you until you pointed out my insecurities.” He apologized through his slight sobs. Y/n rubbed his back before looking up at him.

“I’ll make you a deal. If we both promise never to tease each other this way again, I’ll let you kiss me.” Y/n smiled. Taron sniffed and gave it some thought. Y/n watched the cogs in his head turn and smiled to herself. She wiped away his tears and gently pulled him down so that she could kiss his lips. The kiss was tender yet forceful enough for the both of them to feel their admiration and attraction for one another.

They pulled apart and Taron shyly smiled at y/n.

“Deal.” He replied as he leaned in to capture her lips once more.

===