#thank god i said the word shutout

[magnetic-tide]

Yams fucking did it!!

[the-chicken-or-the-banana]

i had an idea i would love to see from your perspective (you're so good at andreil oh my god) if you wanted to write some stuff about it? i always wondered how andrew reacted when he first found neil missing after the binghampton game (starts pg 235 in the king's men). thoughts? (-- the ttyl blog <3)

omg i literally finished re-reading that scene before seeing your ask skjflsj ~ i hope you like this ! (i'm just realizing that i barely followed ur request and just rambled a lot but that's FINE 😬)

read it on ao3 here :)

«««———»»»

Andrew walked in line to the bus with the rest of the Foxes, mind going a million miles an hour behind his impassive expression. 

"Thank you," Neil had said, eyes truer than Andrew had ever seen them. "You were amazing."

Andrew wasn't such a fool for Neil Josten that he couldn't figure out there was something more happening under the surface, something bigger than just an Exy shutout, that he wasn't telling anyone. Something forcing truth out of him.

Neil looked scared.

Apparently, no one else received the memo, because behind him, Matt Boyd kept kicking at Andrew's heels and Andrew could nearly see the nosy smile on Reynold's face. Boyd's voice was drowned out by the cacophony of both jeers and shouts of approval coming from all around them, but he had no doubts that Boyd was fishing for information surrounding his and Neil's "not this" to settle a bet of some sort.

Andrew didn't really care. He was more focused on leaving Binghamton, getting some answers out of Neil, and then kissing him senseless.

Of course, Andrew had no plans to tell Neil of that last item on the list, but he was sure he (and everyone else, apparently) knew anyway.

Maybe not Nicky, though. For all his cousin boasted about having an "incredible gaydar," he tended to be a bit clueless about Andrew.

Andrew's eyes were unfocused, gazing at the bounce of Neil's red curls while his thoughts wandered around nothing at all.

Nothing? his mind mused unhelpfully. Or Neil? Or is that one in the same now?

Shut up, he huffed internally. I hate him.

Lost in his head, it was only until he heard a pained curse from Aaron that he jerked straight and saw the world burning around him.

«««———»»»

Andrew's vision went red. 

He nearly would have broken out of line and straight into the tidal wave of rioters had he not noticed the police trying to push back the crowd. He had never trusted the pigs, but Andrew supposed he could let them handle the mess until he'd gotten a chance to check on Aaron at the bus.

He had nearly fooled himself with that thought when an ice cooler sailed through the air and missed Danielle's face by an inch. An enraged shout came from Andrew's right, and he could feel the familiar heat of adrenaline in his stomach that always came when he and Renee sparred.

There was going to be a fight.

No sooner than he had that thought, the crowd around him exploded into madness, nearly running the Foxes over. Andrew may have been ready to throw some punches, but he was not at all prepared for the onslaught of unfamiliar bodies piling on him. Moving around him. Touching him. 

Andrew couldn't breathe.

He lost sight of Neil's head in the mess, hoping one of the security guards would bring Neil to safety while Andrew tried to ground himself. What had Bee taught him? 

What is your name? Andrew Minyard.

How old are you? 20 years old.

What is upsetting you? Hands. Everywhere.

Can you do something about it? Yes. I can move now.

He felt the glancing blow of someone's elbow on his face, nearly hitting his eye. It was sure to bruise later, but for now, the sharp pain mixed with Bee's words were enough to shake Andrew out of his stupor.

He ducked to the left, neatly missing a thrown shoe and was grateful to his limited stature for once. He kept an eye out for a flash of red, the glint of blue eyes, but seeing that Neil was nearly as short as Andrew himself, the effort was futile.

He'll be fine, Andrew thought. Find Nicky, Aaron, and Kevin, and get to the bus.

To his surprise (or maybe not), Andrew found Reynolds trading fierce blows with someone twice her size, Renee at her back. He caught Renee's glance and she gave him a firm nod of reassurance.

He nodded back, already swiveling to find the rest of his group. 

After a few minutes, he spotted Nicky and Kevin huddled together, slowly moving to the edge of the crowd. He caught up and grabbed Nicky's wrist, who jerked away and reared his hand back for a punch before realizing it was Andrew.

Despite it all, Andrew felt a thrum of satisfaction. A few years ago, Nicky had let people beat him down over and over again. At least now he was learning to fight back.

"Oh thank god," Nicky cried, catching Kevin's attention, before his eyes widened. He reached out, remembering himself at the last second. "Andrew... your face, what happened?"

Andrew shrugged. He'd been through worse. 

Nicky looked like he wanted to say something, but Kevin cursed loudly and began pushing out of the sea of bodies with renowned vigor.

"It's getting more violent and more people are joining," Kevin said, voice strained. "We need to get out and regroup at the bus."

"Aaron?" Andrew asked. Nicky glanced around a few moments before pointing to his right.

"There!" he exclaimed, and motioned to Kevin to go in that direction. Kevin nodded and they made their way over to Aaron, who was ducking under beer bottles and was nearly smacked in the face by a PSU banner.

"Aaron!" Kevin called, and Aaron's shoulders dropped with relief as he swerved a growing fight and made his way over to them.

Andrew scanned his brother quickly and, after seeing no visible injuries, motioned to start back towards the parking lot. They made their way over to the bus and found Boyd and Danielle standing, the former looking like he'd just lost a fight with a mountain lion.

Danielle was gripping his arm as Abby tended to his wounds, but Andrew heard her say he might need to go to the hospital for the more serious injuries. Boyd looked pained at the thought, but when he glanced up and caught Andrew's eye, he smiled and waved them over.

"Andrew, here," Abby said, noticing his injury. He took an ice pack from her and glanced around.

"Where's Neil?" he asked, choosing to ignore the suggestive look between Boyd and Danielle. Abby shrugged and opened her mouth before her eyes caught on something behind Andrew and she waved.

Andrew turned around to find Renee and Reynolds walking proudly towards them. Reynolds had a mosaic of bruises all over her, and Renee was holding her wrist precariously.

Abby sighed and began treating them as Wymack rounded the front of the bus and finally found his team.

Not the whole team, a ringing voice said in Andrew's head. Neil isn't here yet.

Which was odd, no? He had a security guard in front of him, surely he would have made it here first? Perhaps Wymack had seen him and taken him somewhere. Maybe he was already safe in the bus and Abby hadn’t noticed him.

Andrew pushed past Danielle and boarded the bus, walking the length of it but not finding a loudmouthed striker in its shadows. His stomach became knotted with a curious feeling he slowly identified as dread.

Andrew was at the door of the bus again. He looked at Wymack.

"Where. Is. Neil." he demanded. He saw Wymack's confused expression and before he even said anything, Andrew felt his heart stop.

"I don't know. I thought he was with you."

Reynold's knowing smirk gave way to uncertainty as the rest of the Foxes quieted. There was silence for a moment. Two.

Then Andrew threw his ice pack on the floor and raced back into the heart of the riot.

«««———»»»

He ignored the shouts coming from behind him, his mind an endless loop of Neil, Neil, Neil, is he safe, has he been hurt, he was supposed to be nothing, NEIL

After a few minutes of searching and more than a few near punches, the police finally regained some control over the situation and Andrew was able to scour the grounds for any hint of where Neil might be.

He saw the racquet first. The duffle bag was a few meters away from it.

Numbly, Andrew picked up both items, grabbing Neil's phone as it fell from the netted side pocket.

0, it said. 

Andrew felt a piercing emptiness when he saw Neil's things without their rightful owner beside them.

He slowly walked back to the Foxes' bus, head pounding but unable to really register the dwindling fight behind him. And when the Foxes finally came in view, he saw the confusion on their faces when they saw no Neil walking with him.

Andrew mentally ran through everything that he knew. Neil was scared. He was running from someone, someone Kevin knew about? A zero on his phone from an unnamed number — a countdown, perhaps. He would never leave his things unattended, so maybe he wanted to tell Andrew he had been taken unwillingly, knowing that Andrew would never leave without him.

There was something he was missing, some vital piece of information that Neil hadn't told him that was causing this mess.

The guilty look on Kevin's face told Andrew everything he needed to know. He knew something.

He dumped Neil's things on the ground by Wymack's feet, mentally assessing himself. His cheek throbbed, each breath he took was sticky with sweat, his heart was pounding.

Neil was gone.

Andrew felt such a blind hot rage at that, the likes of which he hadn't felt in so long, the type where he felt like laughing at how cruel the world could be.

And before he could tell his body to stop, Andrew's hands were around Kevin's throat.

«««———»»»

"Shit Andrew! You're hurting— " "Andrew, stop— " "Get off of— "

«««———»»»

Andrew couldn't remember what happened after that, not immediately at least. It was a bit disorienting, going from a perfect recollection to being so overrun by anger that his mind went blank. Was this how everyone else felt all the time? He felt like someone just took out a Jenga piece from his mind, like it was close to collapsing.

Distantly, he recalled being yanked off of Kevin as he gasped some explanation about a mob boss, Kengo's right hand man, Nathaniel Wesninski. But none of it mattered. Andrew had broken his promise. He had hurt the person he had vowed to protect, just like so many had done to him.

And he still didn't have Neil.

«««———»»»

Neil used to make the emptiness a bit fuller, a bit easier to manage, Andrew thought. It felt so impossible to navigate himself now without Neil by Andrew's side.

«««———»»»

There was a hospital. A hotel. There were FBI agents. The news turned on. Off. On. There was another hotel. Handcuffs. Taken away.

«««———»»»

There was Nathaniel Neil. Standing in front of him. Blue eyes, wild hair, bandages unable to hide how irresistible he was, unable to stop the jolt in Andrew's heart.

There was Neil. And everything felt right again.

[nolanscheeks]

“Happy Birthday” BB

**

Hey guys! So I know Brock’s birthday was yesterday but I had a midterm this morning so I couldn’t write till today. As always, this is completely made up! I didn’t proof read, so be patient with me.**

Warnings: light mention of smut

** “Good morning, birthday boy” you more or less screech at Brock the moment you see his eyes blink open just after 9am. **

“Good morning” he yawned, rubbing his eyes. You sat down next to where he nestled under the covers and leaned down to give him a kiss.  You love birthdays, any reason to bake a cake, buy things, have a party and celebrate is right up your alley. Unfortunately, this year there would be no crazy night out in downtown Vancouver, but that didn’t mean you weren’t going to do everything you could to make your boyfriend’s day special. His team has a game tonight so you guys had made a plan to celebrate the next day, an off day, but you couldn’t resist celebrating on the actual day as well. You’d set an early alarm for morning, as a couple you guys were usually up on the early side, but you wanted to make sure you got up even earlier so you could bake Brock’s favourite chocolate chip banana bread and make him a coffee to surprise him with when he woke up. 

“I made you banana bread for your birthday breakfast” you whispered in his ear, gesturing towards the bedside table where you had placed a few slices of banana bread and two hot cups of coffee.

“I thought we were gonna do my birthday tomorrow.”

“Who said we can’t celebrate today, too?” You playfully tapped the tip of his nose. Brock shrugged and pushed up into a seated position, back resting on the headboard, so you could hand him a cup.

“Thank you, y/n” he said, taking a sip. You grabbed your coffee as well and adjusted yourself so you were sitting next to Brock, leaning back against the headboard as well.

“Ok so,” you inhaled, getting a breath so you could recite your birthday plans for him, “we’re going to eat, then let’s take the dogs out and get more coffee, then we can watch a movie or something before your nap and then I have something for you tonight” you winked at him. The something was a bodysuit you’d picked up at Victoria’s Secret while Brock was at practice yesterday. Brock wasn’t a guy that cared if you got dressed up for him or not, constantly insisting you were just as, if not more, beautiful naked or in PJs but you wanted to spice it up for him, especially on his birthday.

“What’s the surprise?” he asked, raising an eyebrow.

“You’ll see when you get home.”

“Is it a puppy?”

You laughed, “yes, Brock. I got you a puppy.” He grinned at you and rested his head on your shoulder. 

“We really don’t need another puppy” he gestured to Coolie and Milo, who were spread out on their huge beds that took up half the floor. 

“Milo is enough of a puppy.” Milo is a handful, always wanting to play, chewing the furniture, biting at Coolie, and whining at the door even after being outside multiple times. At his name, Milo jumped up and rested his face on the edge of the bed, tail wagging. 

“I guess that’s our queue” Brock chuckled, throwing his legs over the side of the best to get up. You hummed in agreement and got up as well, time for a dog walk. 

After a relaxing walk, well, as relaxing as Milo would allow, you and Brock settled on the couch with acai bowls for lunch and Gossip Girl, as per his request, on the TV.

“What time do you think you’ll be home tonight?” you ask around a bite of granola. Brock’s game day routine had been pretty standard the whole time you’d known him but with the protocols and new way of doing media he was getting home anywhere between 10 and 11:30pm after games. 

“Depends on how it goes and if I’m doing post-games” he shrugs, “got something you have to do?”

“No” you replied, smirking at him. 

“I’ll text you.”

“Perfect.” After finishing up lunch and a few too many episodes of Gossip Girl, Brock got up.

“Nap time” he held his hand out, “you should nap with me.” 

“Fine, but only because it’s your birthday” you conceded, taking the hand he offered and following him into the bedroom. You weren’t much for naps, sleeping in the middle of the day felt wrong and often let you groggy, but if he wanted to nap together today, you would do it.

You dozed a little, but not really. It felt like days had passed when Brock’s phone went off and he untangled himself from you. You watched him get ready and then kissed him goodbye as he went off to the rink. After closing the door you got to work. You melted chocolate to dip strawberries into, baked a cake, had dinner, walked and fed the dogs, showered, and got into your new lingerie all while the Canucks game played on your TV. You lit candles in the bedroom, so they would be dripping when it was time and set up the chocolate fondue. By the time you had everything ready the game-ending buzzer sounded and you began to watch your phone for Brock’s promised post-game text. The game had been a bit of a bust, a three-nothing shutout in favour of the Oilers, but whatever, that would slip Brock’s mind the moment he got home.

You idly watched your phone, waiting for his text, but by 10:15 it still hadn’t come. Brock had probably forgotten he was supposed to text you which wasn’t an uncommon occurrence, he was often guilty of forgetting small things. You’d been wearing nothing but lingerie, so you threw on a hoodie to keep you warm. Another five minutes passed by and then the front door opened and Brock entered. He shucked off his shoes and coat with a huff, greeting the dogs with a pat on the head instead of the usually enthusiastic hugs they were used to.

“Hey” you greeted, a little wary. He seemed pissed, probably an overflow from the game.

“Hey” he walked over to the fridge, grabbing a protein shake and popping it open.

“You forgot to text me” you teased. You had meant it as a joke, but at your words he tensed up. 

“Sorry” he snapped, “I was a little busy getting my ass hung up by the fucking Oilers.”

“I thought you played well” you tried to reassure him. You hadn’t watched the whole game, but what you had watched looked good.

“It doesn’t matter what you thought, we still got shutout.” He drained the last of his protein shake and the plastic bottle into the sink. Brock’s words stung a little bit. Of course your opinion doesn’t turn the loss into a win, but it wasn’t very nice of him to say your opinion didn’t matter. It also hurt that he had forgotten that you had promised a surprise. There was no point arguing though, he would cool-down and you’d get to have birthday sex, just maybe not tonight. You returned to where you’d been sitting on the couch and patted the seat beside you, beckoning one of the dogs to jump up. Sure enough, Coolie hopped up and cuddled into your side. 

“Your dad is in a mood” you informed Coolie, speaking as if he could understand you. You heard Brock scoff from the kitchen. You ignored him in favour of scratching Coolie behind the ears. 

“Baby” you were completely preoccupied with loving the dog when you heard Brock call out. “You did this?” He was obviously referring to your bedroom, set up like a scene from a romcom. You got up and joined him in the bedroom.

“Yeah” you admitted, “I thought we could have a little fun.”

“Fuck, I love it” he exclaimed, wrapping his arms around you, “and I love you.”

“Reach under my sweater” you instructed, wanting to guide him towards his surprise. He complied and you felt his arm snake up under the hoodie and grab hold of one of the straps connecting your bra and panties.

“Oh my god” he breathed.

“Happy birthday” you whispered, placing your lips on his.

Thank you so much for reading! I hope you enjoyed it:)

[bqstqnbruin]

Come back to me part 3

I actually finished this today and then they won (to my Flyer’s fans please do not hate me I love you all) so here I am posting part three much quicker than I posted part 2.

I hope you like this!

Update! Read the entire series: Part 1 // Part 2 // Part 4 // Part 5 // Part 6  // Part 7

________________

“Y/N, guess what?” you hear Kyle yelling as soon as he hears you come in the door. You were incredibly late getting out of work, stepping in your apartment at almost nine pm. You follow his voice to the kitchen to see him standing at the stove, stirring something in a pot, which means he waited to have dinner with you. Either that, or he got tired of waiting and decided to start cooking anyway. Before you can answer, he kisses you on the cheek and starts bouncing on the balls of his feet like a child. “I got a job.”

“Oh, my god! Kye, that’s awesome!” you say, truly excited for him. “Where?” 

“With you!” he exclaims, clearly not noticing the shock on your face. He got a job at your company? Oh god, that means you would have to spend your entire day with him. “I’m doing stuff with the finance department.”

Not your department, thankfully. “Kye, that’s amazing! We should celebrate!” you say, going into your pantry to see if you had any wine on hand. 

“Can we invite Mat?” you hear him say as you stick your head in the fridge, hoping to find an open bottle there instead.

“After what you said to him at the restaurant the other night? That we still haven’t talked about?” you ask, not removing your head from the fridge.

“I need to apologize to him.” 

“And me.” 

“Yeah.” You close the fridge, no wine, which you suddenly desperately wished you had. You cock your eyebrow at him waiting for an actual apology. “Oh,” he says, when he looks at you, seeing the annoyance in your face, “I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have gotten mad. And then I shouldn’t have stormed off.” 

“Thank you,” you say, going behind him and wrapping him in a hug. “You really want me to call Mat and ask him to come here?” 

“Yeah.”

You go off to get your phone, dialing Mat. “Hey, what’s up?” you hear him ask. 

“Hey, what are you doing tonight? We wanted to have you over.”

“Uh, the guys and I are fucking celebrating!” he yells, commotion going on behind him. You can make out Anthony and Kieffer yelling, too, screaming in Mat’s ear about who knows what. “Come celebrate with us,” he says, clearly already drunk. “I’ll text you the address.”

“Uh, sure. Is it alright if Kyle comes, too? We had planned to celebrate a little anyway.” 

“Yes! Bring your boyfriend,” he hiccups, you can’t help but smile and roll your eyes, “Fuck, sorry. Bring your fiance! Let’s all celebrate together!” he says, hanging up.

“I guess we’re going to someone’s house? Is that alright?” you ask, plugging the address into your phone. You could feel your heart start to race at the thought of going to see Mat, even with your fiance right there.

Even with your fiance right there. “Yeah, I’m down,” he shrugs, handing you a plate of food. 

----------

“If that was Mona, I’m going to kill you,” Tito says once Mat hangs up his phone. All of them were already way too wasted for their own good. But they had reason to celebrate: they not only broke their losing streak, but they broke it with a shutout against the Rangers. None of them cared that they were going to regret their partying in the morning. 

“No, it was Y/N, her and Kyle are coming,” he says, probably too chipper considering you would be flaunting your fiance in front of him. 

‘Stupid Kyle,’ he thought to himself, ‘Kyle gave you that ring on your finger as if you belonged with him. Y/N belongs with me. Fuck am I drunk.’ He knew he had to sober up fast if he was going to see you and Kyle, but part of him didn’t really care. They won a game for what felt like the first time in forever. 

“How are you letting the wife bring her fiance here?” Tito asks.

“She is Kyle’s wife, not mine,” Mat slurs, praying it was enough for Tito to stop that. He didn’t need a reminder that the love of his life was with someone else. 

Holy shit. Love of his life? Since when did he think you were that? Was he only thinking that because he was drunk?

“I’m going to get some water,” he says, navigating his way through his teammates and their wives and girlfriends. He chugs the cup, quickly getting another in hopes that he could sober up enough to see you. Given his thoughts, he wasn’t sure what word vomit would spill out of his mouth when he saw you walk in with Kyle. 

“Mat!” he hears Tito yell. “Come here!” Mat rolls his eyes, filling up his cup with water one more time. Going back to where he left his two teammates, he sees two more people have joined them. 

His heart starts racing as he approaches you and Kyle, both of your backs to him. You were intently listening to something Kieffer was telling you, seemingly unaware that Mat was even approaching. He stops and almost turns around when he sees Kyle put his hand at the same of your back, rubbing his hand in small, circular motions. You look at him, a smile on your face, one that doesn’t quite reach our eyes. 

“There he is!” Tito says, clearly needing the water more than Mat did. “Look who it is! Y/N and Kyle!”  

His breath stops when you turn to look at him, yours doing the same. Your eyes light up at the sight of him, feeling excited that he was there. You couldn’t remember the last time you felt like this about Kyle. ‘No, stop that,’ you tell yourself, ‘you’re just excited over seeing an old friend.’

“Hey, do you guys want something to drink?” He offers, hoping that a drunk Tito and Kieffer wouldn’t follow and start rambling about you being with Mat. 

“I’ll have water,” Kyle says, waving his keys in the air. 

“I’ll take whatever you have,” you say, smiling at Mat.

He returns the smile, leading you and Kyle into the kitchen to get you drinks. A bunch of the girls had congregated around the island in the center, guarding the drinks like it was their only mission for the night. 

“Mathew! Who’s your friend?” one of them squeals as he tries to weasel his way between them for whatever was left to drink.

He introduces you and Kyle, only getting a few seconds in of conversation with you before one of the girls yells, “Ok, boys out. Leave, now,” pushing Mat and Kyle out of the room, leaving you to fend for yourself in a group of drunk and giggling girls.

“I’m Lauren,” one of the girls introduces herself to you, “Jordan’s wife.” You nod along, pretending to know who that is while the girls lose themselves in conversation. “So you’re engaged? Did Mat not tell us he had a fiance?” Lauren asks you, quiet enough that the other girls couldn’t hear you.

“Oh, yeah I’m engaged, but no not to Mat,” you explain, telling her the other guy with you was your fiance. “What’s married life like?”

Her face gets soft, thinking about her husband, the same type of expression you get when you think about Mat. Wait, no. When you think about Kyle. Wow, this alcohol hit fast. “It’s hard, but it’s still blissful. I mean, we’ve been together since high school. It’s like, ok well, picture this,” she says, taking a sip of whatever was in her cup, “Like imagine you’re sitting there on a rainy day on your place. You’re reading by the window, and he comes over and brings you a cup of tea, then lifts your legs so that he can sit with them in your lap. He’ll watch something on his phone with ear buds because he doesn’t want to disturb you, but he doesn’t want to be away from you. It’s sweet moments like that where you know he loves you without you having to ask him why.”

You close your eyes, picturing the scene she just described. You aren’t in your home, though, you’re somewhere else, you just can’t figure out where. You’re sitting there reading, the rain falling against the window. He comes over, gives you your favorite tea in your favorite mug, you not even having to ask for it. He gives you a quick kiss on the cheek before settling into the couch, this phone ready to watch whatever show he wants to.

But it isn’t Kyle. His blonde hair was no where to be seen in your thoughts. You saw a brunette, and you knew exactly which one it was.

You open your eyes, Lauren staring at you with a smile, knowing you were thinking about your future. “You and Kyle?”

You force a small smile. “Yeah,” you lie, “Me and Kyle.”

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

You know when you see her blonde ponytail that you were going to regret what was going to happen next. You knew exactly what was going to happen, since the same thing seemed to happen daily. Thank god Kyle didn’t work in your department, because something tells you he wouldn’t like to see your reaction to this.

“I need to see it!” Rachel squeals, standing in your cubicle when both of you were supposed to be working. 

You can’t help but roll your eyes at her, more of your friends surrounding your chair. God, why did they like the ring so much? “You’ve seen it every day since I started.”

“And? It’s fucking gorgeous. That kind of stone belongs in a museum,” Ally adds, obviously exaggerating.

It wasn’t that the ring wasn’t beautiful, it just wasn’t your style. There was also no way it belonged in a museum, but whatever. You extend your hand, the girls gushing over it as you fake a smile. Once they get it out of their system, they start to file away, hopefully going back to work. One of the girls stays around, Jessica. 

“Ok, what’s up,” she asks, plopping herself down on your desk.

“What are you talking about?” 

“Call me crazy, but shouldn’t you be excited to show off your engagement ring? I mean, you’re planning a wedding, it’s supposed to be one of the happiest days of your life.” 

“We haven’t even started planning it, actually. Honestly, it’s never even on my mind,” you admit. And you’re telling her the truth. You have no plans, and part of you isn’t sure you want to start making any. 

“Well, why do you think that is?” Jessica asks. She’s probably your closest friend at the office: she knows the most about you, she already knows about Mat, but she doesn’t know everything. 

“When I see myself married, I don’t see Kyle as my husband. And I want to, I do. I love him. I mean, he moved here from Vancouver for me, we’ve been together since we were in high school. How could I not love him?”

Jessica looks at you. She has to know you mean what you say. You really do love Kyle: he’s sweet, he’s caring, yeah he forgets shit, but you don’t remember everything about him, either. But, there’s just something missing. Maybe you were with him because it was just easy? “It sounds like you’re engaged to your boyfriend, not your future husband.” 

“What do you mean?” 

Around the corner, Kyle was coming to surprise you with lunch. He knows you were planning on going out anyway, so he figured he might as well get you something and the two of you could eat together. He hears his name, stopping in his tracks.

“I think that Kyle is at most going to be your boyfriend. I don’t think he’s the right man for you to be your husband, and that’s not fair to either of you.”

“What do I do?” you ask, burying your face in your hands. You had to call it off with Kyle, but could you tell him that?

“You can’t let your boyfriend get in the way of finding your husband. But, I think your husband is closer than you think,” she says, getting up to leave. “Let me know if you need anything.”

Kyle had heard that entire thing. Were you going to break up with him? He couldn’t lose you: for him, you were everything. He loved you, he wanted to marry you. He couldn’t see his life without you in it. He watches Jessica walk away, hearing you sigh and mutter something under your breath. He can’t let you know that he heard everything. 

You get out your phone, texting Mat that you wanted to catch up with him tonight, just the two of you. You felt like you had to talk to him and him only. 

“Hey, babe,” you hear, startling you as you press send slightly prematurely on your text to Mat. You see Kyle standing in front of you, two to go containers in hand. “Want to have lunch together? We can go sit outside since it’s still nice out.” He’s trying to hide the sadness that he was feeling. Who was your husband then, if it wasn’t him? 

“Uh, yeah, sure! Let me just send this and then we can go?” you ask, pointing to your phone.

“Who are ya texting?” he asks, in a sing song voice, the only tone he can get out without sounding mean or hostile in anyway.

“Mat.”

Mat. Mathew. He couldn’t be the husband, could he?

---------

Mat’s phone starts buzzing on his counter, an involuntary groan leaving his lips. He had been avoiding Mona since the game, telling her that he was going right to sleep after the win instead of to Cal’s house like they actually did. That, of course, meant that Paxton and Mona decided to leave his phone constantly buzzing.

Another text from Paxton shows up on his screen, in addition to the many that he had already ignored. ‘You have a date with Mona tonight.’ Not asking him, telling him. He rolls his eyes, putting his phone down and tries to make lunch for himself. Another vibration: ‘so text her and tell her you’re taking her out.’

He could easily pretend that he was working out when these messages came in, or just said he was at practice, something, anything that would mean that he wouldn’t have to answer Paxton and Mona’s constant complaints. 

His phone starts buzzing again. “Mother fucker, do you ever rest?” he nearly screams, picking up the phone to see what Satan or Satan’s keeper wanted. Instead it was a text from you, immediately followed by another one. 

‘Hey, can we get together to’

‘Fuck, sorry, got distracted. Can we get together tonight?’ 

He smiles at the thought of you asking him out. No, wait. You were just hanging out as friends, it’s not like you could date him or anything. He immediately starts laying out a plan with you, where what time, stuff like that. 

As soon as he hits send, Paxton’s name pops up on his phone. “So where are you taking Mona tonight?” 

“Hello to you, too,” Mat huffs, clearly annoyed. 

“Where. Are. You. Taking. Mona. Tonight.” Paxton repeats, pausing between each word so that he could be as dramatic as possible.

“I have plans with a friend who’s in town from home. They leave tomorrow and this is my only chance to see them. I’ll see her tomorrow,” Mat fibs. He was going to be out with you, a friend from home. You just weren’t leaving tomorrow.

“If you wait until tomorrow then Mona will have no choice but to break up with you,” Paxton says calmly on the other end, as if that were actually a threat.

“Is that a promise?” Mat snaps, picturing Paxton’s shocked reaction at his outburst as he gasps, “Have you really not figured out that I do not care? She’s a sweet girl, but she’s far from being my girlfriend.” 

“Then tomorrow, Mona will dump you, and she will be made out to look like the one who needs pity. You will never date someone from this agency again.” 

“Another promise? Wanna go for three?” Mat asks before hanging up his phone, not letting Paxton get another word in. He could be rid of Mona tomorrow. What an amazing thought. 

----------

You were meeting Mat at his place, ordering dinner, watching a movie, having wine, pretty much having a girls night, expect for the fact that Mat wasn’t a girl. You had to really talk this out with someone, and he was the only one you could before facing Kyle. 

The two of you were half way through the large pizza you had ordered, a movie on that you weren’t paying attention to, your feet in Mat’s lap while he focused on the TV.

“Hey Mat?” you ask him, looking at his profile.

“What’s up? Do you need another piece? It’s so much easier for you to reach than for me to stretch over your big feet,” he teases, a smile growing on his face even without looking away from the TV.

“Asshole, no. I wanted to talk to you.” You take in a deep breath as he pauses the movie. “It’s about me and Kyle.” 

“What about it?” he asks, finally turning to look at you.

“Well, you know both of us before we were together, and you know us now. So I guess, what do you think of us?”

“You’re not you when you’re with him,” Mat says, studying your face. “You’re cold, you’re closed off. You’re not like you were when we,” he stops, sucking in a breath. Neither of you had outright mentioned your past to each other, even though you knew it was there. “When we were together.”

“Mat, we were together between the ages of fourteen and seventeen. I’ve been with Kyle since we were eighteen. People change. You have,” you say, trying to make a point. 

“How?”

“You’re,” you start, wishing you hadn’t. You don’t know how he’s changed. If anything, he was just a better version of what you loved when you were young: he wasn’t afraid to act like an idiot, but knew when to tone it down and get to work on something. He was sweet, paying attention to every detail of the people he cared about. He dove right into everything he was passionate about, never letting anyone tell him it was ridiculous or letting people talk him out of whatever it was he wanted to do. “You haven’t. You’re high school Mat 2.0.” 

“You have changed, though,” Mat says, looking down at his hands. Even though he was hiding his face, you could see the frown forming on it, reaching to his eyes and dulling the spark that was normally there. 

“What was I like then?” you ask, wondering who he saw you as.

He swallows, “You were chaotic perfection,” he looks up at you, a smile on his face, “You were somehow all over the place and perfectly composed at the same time. You would always have the loudest laugh, the widest smile, never afraid to be spontaneous, like that time we decided to drive to Seattle, but you were always planning everything. No detail would go unnoticed, but you could never pull away to see the bigger picture. I think that part of your high school self you’ve kept, but I don’t know about everything else.” 

He stops, waiting for you to say something. When you don’t, he continues, “When you’re with Kyle, it’s almost like you don’t want to declare to the world that he was yours and you were his. Like you don’t want people to know that part of your identity is him. You’re careful about what you say, and what you do say is the bare minimum. When we were together, and this might just be because we were younger and more obnoxious, we would be proud of each other. Fuck, every time you tell someone you’re engaged, your ears get red, you tuck your hair behind your ear and you don’t look the person in the eye. You just look at the ring, but not like you’re admiring it. It’s like you’re questioning it.”

You can feel the tears in your eyes start to slide down your cheeks. He was right. Every word he said, he was right. “Y/N?” he says, putting his hand on yours. “Can I ask something?” You nod, not sure if you can get words out without sobbing. “Why did you say yes to him? To Kyle?”

“I don’t know,” you let out quickly. 

“Do you love him?”

“I don’t know,” you admit. You think you do, but something was telling you that what you felt wasn’t the love you wanted. “Can I ask something now?”

“Always.”

“Do you love Mona?”

“No,” he says, point blank. “I don’t. I do not love her.”

“Then why are you with her?”

Without missing a beat, because he’s told this to Tito and Kieffer, he starts, “Right now it’s just easy. It’ll be over soon, though. Tito keeps telling me I need to find my wife, but I don’t know where to look.” That was a lie. Tito called it from the start: you are the wife. Mat knew it, the entire team knew it.

“My friend from work told me don’t let my boyfriend get in the way of finding my husband,” you admit. You sit there for a moment, just staring at each other in silence. “Kyle isn’t the one I’m meant to be with,” you say, shocked that you even just said that out loud. Part of you always knew that, but you never thought you would say it.

Mat laughs, running his hand through his hair, “Looks like we’re both gonna be looking for our spouses, then?” he asks, adding a slightly disgusted tone to the word ‘spouse.’

You look down at the ring that’s still sitting on your finger. “Fuck. I need to look for a different husband.” You look up at Mat, who’s looking off to the side at something. Maybe you didn’t need to look too hard. 

[halliewriteshockey]

OH! A PROMPT! canner/jars and forehead kisses (whether a 5+1 thing, or a feelings realisation thing, or something else entirely)(obvs based on him smooching goalies in the goalie train)

Five times Jared kisses Tristan + one time he kisses someone else

The first time Jared kisses him, it’s in the goalie line after a shutout, and it happens so fast Tristan’s not even sure what’s going on. Jared’s grinning so widely his eyes are crinkled almost closed, and he reaches up and cups Tristan’s helmet, pulling his head down.

Tristan bends obediently, not entirely sure what he’s doing, and Jared releases him a split second later, slaps him on the shoulder, and moves so Sid can take his place.

Okay, he thinks. Hockey players are weird. They tend to be emotionally stunted because they’re so focused on hockey instead of developing life skills like actual humans. 

Tristan accepts the rest of his team’s congratulations and puts the incident out of his head.

Until it happens again.

The next time, they’ve barely eked out a win, scraping through by the skin of their teeth and a desperation move by Tristan late in the third that only just kept the puck out. He thinks he might have pulled something stopping it, but the twinge fades when his team lines up to thank him.

Jared pulls him down and repeats whatever he’d done last time. Kissing his helmet? Tristan goes home and watches the game, taking notes on his performance while he ices his groin, and then watches the lineup.

Sure enough, Jared’s kissing him. Tristan checks the shutout game. Yup, kissed his helmet then too.

A little weird, Tristan thinks, and goes to bed.

He does it again after the third game too, smile wide like this is all totally normal.

The fourth time, the game hasn’t even started. Tristan’s warming up in the hall, surrounded by players. He’s in the zone, letting everything else fade as he focuses on getting into that perfect headspace where he doesn’t hear anything except the sound the puck makes when it streaks toward him.

He’s absolutely not expecting Jared to come out of the locker room and make a beeline straight for him. Tristan leans back to let him pass but Jared stops in front of him. He looks serious this time, blue-grey eyes determined, and he reaches up with one hand to pull Tristan down into the kiss. When he releases him, he pats the back of Tristan’s helmet and turns away without a word.

They lose. 

Tristan’s scattered, unable to focus no matter how he tries. The opposing team slots three in the first two periods, then another two in the last, and the goals Teddy and Jake score between them aren’t enough to make up the gap before the buzzer goes.

Murray starts the next game. He brings home a win with ease, grinning at the players as they line up after. Jared’s bouncing on his skates, ahead of Tristan in the line, and Tristan has a perfect view when Jared reaches up---a lot higher because Muzz is part giraffe---and plants a big, smacking kiss on his helmet.

Oh, Tristan thinks. He does it to everyone. It’s a goalie-specific thing, not a Tristan-specific thing. That’s... well, that’s okay then, isn’t it?

He starts the next game, and Jared doesn’t kiss him before it starts. Maybe that’s why they win, he decides. Everyone’s bright-eyed and happy, knocking their foreheads against Tristan’s helmet after, but Tristan’s not really paying attention, too focused on Jared’s place in line.

He doesn’t kiss him. Doesn’t even meet his eyes, the smile on his face hollow like he’s faking it, and he only slaps Tristan on the shoulder before turning away, leaving Tristan to stare after him.

It’s fine, he tells himself, and follows his team off the ice. 

And it is fine, mostly. They’re winning more than they lose, climbing the standings with dogged determination. Tristan’s able to force himself into focus again, and he doesn’t care that Jared doesn’t kiss him after wins anymore. He doesn’t. He especially doesn’t care that he still kisses Muzz after his wins.

He doesn’t care so aggressively that he glares at Jared when he approaches him after games, until Jared’s looking anywhere but at him and the congratulations he offers are nothing more than a nod before he turns to skate away. 

“Any chance you’re going to get past this on your own?” Sid asks one evening after the media’s gone.

“Get past what,” Tristan snaps, and immediately feels guilty for being rude to Sid, of all people, who only wants the best for everyone on his team. “Sorry,” he says more moderately. “Just been on edge, I guess.”

Sid examines him with dark eyes that see too much. “Maybe you should talk to him,” he suggests.

He definitely sees too much.

Tristan shoves his feet into his shoes. “Goodnight, Sid.”

He stalks for the garage without looking back. He’s almost to his car when he realizes someone’s waiting for him. He gives serious thought to hiding behind a pillar and calling a Lyft when he realizes it’s Jared, arms crossed over his chest and a thunderous scowl on his face.

He doesn’t, but it’s a near thing. 

Jared straightens when he sees him, hands dropping to his sides. “Um. Sid said I had to talk to you or I was benched.”

Goddamn meddling captains.

“Tell him we talked then,” Tristan says, pulling his keys out of his pocket. “Goodnight.”

“Yeah, that won’t fly.” Jared doesn’t sound any happier than Tristan feels. “You know Sid. He won’t let it go until whatever this is is fixed.”

“What is this?” Tristan snaps.

“I don’t know!” Jared retorts, matching his tone. “We were okay one day and then we weren’t and I... I fucked something up but I don’t know how, okay, but I’m trying here, can you just... work with me a bit?”

Tristan glares at him for a minute. To his credit, Jared doesn’t flinch. He just lifts his chin and waits.

“Get in the damn car,” Tristan growls, and Jared wastes no time scrambling for the passenger side.

Tristan doesn’t start the car once they’re inside. They sit quietly, watching the last few players heading for their cars. Finally, Jared stirs.

“Why did you kiss me?” Tristan asks abruptly.

Jared blinks. “I---what?”

“You started kissing my helmet after wins,” Tristan says. This is horrible. He wants very much to just disappear altogether and not have to talk about his feelings or whatever, but Jared’s twisted to look at him. “Then you stopped. Why?”

“Why did I, uh, kiss you, or why did I stop?”

“Yes,” Tristan says, exasperated. “It’s fucking with my head, so could you please just... explain and then get out of my car so I can go home?”

Jared shifts in his seat. He looks weirdly guilty. “I didn’t mean anything by it,” he mumbles, and Tristan’s bad mood gets worse somehow. “I just---I was happy we won. I wanted to show you how much I appreciated you. But then that time I kissed you before the game, we lost and I know you blamed me, so---”

“Wait, whoa, back up. I blamed you? For us losing?”

“Well yeah. Didn’t you?”

“No,” Tristan snaps. “I blame JJ for turning over the puck and Rudy for forgetting how to be a D-man when I needed him, and the rest of you for not playing a good enough game to make up for it. And I blame myself because I still should have been able to keep the pucks out anyway and I didn’t. What did you have to do with any of that?”

Jared is gaping at him. “But. I kissed you. And we lost.”

“Correlation does not equal causation. It had nothing to do with you.”

“Well, that’s why,” Jared says. “I thought... I thought you were mad at me.”

“Well, I wasn’t,” Tristan says. “Not until you started kissing Muzz but not me.”

Jared’s eyes widen. “Did you want---”

“Forget it,” Tristan snaps. “Get out of my car.”

“No, I don’t think I will,” Jared says, lifting his chin again. “Explain what you meant and then I’ll go, how’s that?”

Tristan slumps in his seat and glares out the windshield. 

“Were you jealous?” Jared asks.

Tristan glares harder at nothing.

“Oh my god,” Jared breathes. He sounds delighted. Tristan sneaks a look. Yup, he’s grinning. “Jars, you could have said. Why didn’t you just say?”

“Why are you still here?” Tristan asks, making his voice as forbidding as possible, but if anything, Jared’s grin just widens.

“You like me,” he says.

“Right now, there are Flyers I like more than you,” Tristan growls.

Jared laughs. He actually laughs, and Tristan reconsiders the viability of making a run for it.

It’s already too late. Jared is leaning over the armrest, reaching out to cup Tristan’s chin in his hand and turn his face. Tristan decides it would be childish to resist, so he allows it. Jared’s only a few inches away, a smile dancing in his eyes when Tristan meets his gaze.

“You don’t have to be jealous,” Jared says, and a shiver runs down Tristan’s spine. “Don’t you know you’re the only one I want to kiss?”

“Hearing a lot of big talk,” Tristan retorts. “Maybe you should put your money where your---mmph!” 

Jared’s mouth is warm and soft, and all rational thought flees Tristan’s brain. All he can do is hold on as Jared deepens the kiss, cupping Tristan’s face in one hand as he licks into his mouth.

They’re both breathing hard when Jared pulls away. He’s smiling as he thumbs Tristan’s chin.

“I do have a confession to make,” he murmurs, and Tristan’s never heard him sound like this, his voice all breathy and soft. 

He manages to quirk an eyebrow.

“What the hell is correlation does not equal... whatever that other word was?”

“Causation,” Tristan says, fighting the laughter. “Read a book sometime.” And he pulls him back into another kiss, feeling better than he has in weeks as Jared laughs against his mouth and kisses him back.

~~~

Inspired by Jared actually doing this to Tristan after a win

[moccahobi]

Written in The Stars [Hoseok x Reader]

Warnings: Cuss words

Summery:  Hoseok had always been big on supporting his friends. Thus it came as no surprise that he ended up spending his free time at Namjoon's latest buiseness venture: a little dessert cafe. He didn't expect to fall for the cute barista who always worked when he was there though the.

Word count: 7k words

Genre: Slice of life au; Cafe au

Author’s Note: Thank you so much to @kyub for making the banner and @heyitsmeee2, @jung-hoseok-s-airplane, @jiminful, and @elenasgotyourback​ for betaing. This fic took so much out of me! I had one idea than the next and the main time I had to write this was during school. Oof! I am glad I did it though! Big shutout to @bangtanscenery​ for orchestrating and creating this project! It was soo fun!

Hoseok sighed from where he was seated in the all too cliche cafe. Namjoon had just opened it up so Hoseok was trying to fulfill his role as a supportive friend by eating there, but it just wasn’t a place he was into. The place was beautiful. He could tell Namjoon and his business partner had quite the eye for design. The wall behind the register was painted in chalk and the menu was written in large swirling letters across it. They had picked a light and natural wood tone for the tables and booths that complimented the dark grey of the metal chairs which were all  all seats upholstered with a rich navy blue and embezzled with glittering gold rebites keeping the cushions to the furniture. It was an ethereal kind of look that undoubtedly drew in the crowds. 

Looking around, Hoseok’s eyes landed on a large astrology chart sprawled out on the back wall, similar in handwriting to the menu, painting a story with the chart. He only noticed it because Namjoon had a passion for astrology and he would often gush about it to Hoseok who would listen to almost all the times that they met up. To top it off, the ceiling was painted in an all consuming shade of black, mimicking a galaxy with its streaks of white, here and there, which glimmered like actual stars (although Hoseok could admit that the ceiling was almost a piece of art). Aside from the heavy reliance on a theme, it was a dessert cafe. Hoseok liked sweets. Namjoon loved sweets apparently. Almost every food was doused in sugar and it was almost overwhelming just how sweet it all was. They all sounded amazing and cavity inducing (especially the french toast and ice cream combo), and Hoseok was tempted to try them, but he couldn’t handle all that sugar in one sitting. He’d need someone to help and he didn’t have someone to help him today. The only thing Hoseok could handle was the Black Hole coffee (americano with a little sugar) and a Galaxy bagel (it was just a plain bagel with some sugary cream cheese). Hoseok felt a little more like Yoongi, the resident grump of his friends, sitting in the cafe with such… unsweetened foods. 

Of course Namjoon’s cafe had some savory food and Hoseok wanted to try them some other time, maybe with Yoongi.The main thing Namjoon sold was dessert though, and to support Namjoon, Hoseok had to have one of the desserts. 

What wasn’t a shock about Namjoon’s cafe was that he co-owned and ran it with someone else. Hoseok didn’t know who it was yet, Namjoon having not told him yet but from what Hoseok knew of the current set up, they were manning the counter with two baristas. From what Namjoon had said about his business partner, they were much more focused on what they were serving as well as the astrology side of the cafe work than any of the real business. It gave Namjoon exactly what he wanted: the business side of things and a partner to share the possible debt. Hoseok had finally managed to visit today, their fifth day open and if he had to list the things that he did like,  he’d have to start with the ceiling and then mention one of the baristas:

They took his breath away the second he entered the store. They smiled broadly and greated Hoseok and for a second, he forgot that he was at a local cafe and not a family run restaurant back in Gwangju. The world slowed as he looked at them and all Hoseok could think about was the warm feeling of returning to his mom’s friend’s restaurant after his post-school program and eating kimchi and rice. 

The trance was broken the second she turned to take someone’s order and Hoseok slowly came back to reality. He wasn’t in Gwangju but he was about to have a wonderful meal in a shop owned by a friend. 

Hoseok had only been in the cafe for half an hour and he could already say that he was starting to develop a small crush on the barista. He didn’t mean to and he didn’t dare think about actually asking her out… it just happened. She was a pretty woman doing her job and Hoseok was an attention starved small business owner who was entranced by her caring attitude. Hoseok was stressed and tired. Plus, he was finally feeling better after his last relationship. There wasn’t this constant longing nestled deep inside him at the thought of the end of his last relationship anymore, and he might finally be at a point where dating was ok to do again.

That is what he brushed it off as. 

Hoseok didn’t want to think of the alternative. He just got out of a relationship a month ago and was still recovering even if he felt like he might be better now. Sure it might have been a mutual agreement based on his best interests and their best interest, but that didn’t make it any harder. Hoseok still missed the nights when they would spend the night in their apartment and snuggle close while watching cheesy shows or when they’d force him to stop working on pottery for a day and instead grab food at one of the food trucks. He missed the companionship but by now, he didn’t know if he missed them.

He might.

There wasn’t a real way to always tell though. The two went everywhere together. Every place that Hoseok went to now conjured memories that danced and pranced around in his mind. This cafe would be different though. There were no ghost memories dancing around. It was new and he could work effectively and happily. 

At some point while Hoseok was finishing his food, Namjoon came over and joined him. The two had barely had more than a handful of conversations since graduating college, both too busy to make time for the other as small business owners (well this was Namjoon’s second business venture, the other supplying him a good source of money to fund him and the cafe). That was how life was sadly but with this cafe open so close to where Hoseok lived and worked that now they might have a chance of having long and winded conversations again.

“Do you remember watching stars on our old apartment’s rooftop?” Namjoon asked at one point, a soft and content smile on his face

“Somewhat. They were nice. Cold, but nice.” Hoseok lied while taking a long sip of his coffee.

Namjoon had always loved the night sky, so much so that he would drag Hoseok out three times a week just to look at the sky. The man could name every constellation and phase of the moon off the top of his head. It was an amazing skill. Hoseok didn’t have that same passion though. Sure, the night sky was nice, awe inspiring at times, but most nights Hoseok would return from work exhausted and all he wanted to do was go to sleep. Those nights when Namjoon and Hoseok would go onto the roof and look at the sky were mostly filled with Hoseok drifting off in the cold. 

Hoseok did it though and Hoseok would do it again in a heartbeat because it made Namjoon happy. 

Namjoon smiled broadly, “That was kinda the inspiration for the cafe’s decorations! My co-owner, Y/n-ssi, really likes astrology so she added some of the more… magical elements.” 

Hoseok chuckled and looked around with a small smile growing on his face as well,“I am glad you enjoyed those nights so much. Do you still make time to go out and look at the stars?” Hoseok asked before taking a long sip of his coffee.

“No.” Namjoon snorted, his smile much larger now, “I am a working man. I barely have time to eat, sleep, and breath. Let alone gaze up at the stars.” 

“You should make time, Namjoon-ah. It isn’t healthy to work all the time.” Hoseok chastised, taking special care now to scrutinize Namjoon’s face.

He looked very similar to the young twenty year old Hoseok once knew but there was more evidence now of stress and wear-and-tear. Frown lines and bags etched in his face. When was the last time Namjoon took a break from all his work? Hoseok didn’t know the answer. He did know though that he was no better than Namjoon. This was his first real break in a week or two.

“You sound like Minjae.” Namjoon laughed.

Hoseok winced instead, “Sometimes we need someone to look after us, Namjoon-ah.”

“I am sorry, man. I didn’t mean to-”

“It is ok, dude. I am over her.” Hoseok said, carefully watching Namjoon process what Hoseok said.

He still looked stressed, his frown lines growing as he looked at the table instead of Hoseok. Namjoon had set up Minjae and Hoseok and his pride was undoubtedly wounded when the two decided to end it. Namjoon also barely had time to check in with the two so his own memory was probably a little foggy.

“ Anyways, we should try to go camping sometime… or go to some sort of museum for stars. Bet we could stay there for five hours before they’d kick us out.” Hoseok proposed, watching as Namjoon smiled, his frown lines becoming ghosts as he looked back up at Hoseok again as the previous stress left him. 

Namjoon snorted in laughter, “I would love to look at the stars with you again, if that is what you’re asking.” 

His eyes lit up as he started to speak animatedly, “And we can make s’mores and grill some beef. Oh my god! I haven’t had beef in sooo long. It would be so good!”

“I think we would have to go camping to do that, Namjoon-ah. I don’t know if a museum will allow us to start a fire and cook stuff there.” Hoseok laughed.

“Well then, looks like we will be going camping.” 

“Yeah. Looks like we will have to plan that soon.”

A comfortable silence filled the two as they looked out at the bustling cafe, nothing left to talk about. They were both running their own stores, Hoseok had his pottery shop and Namjoon had the bookshop and now this cafe. The two did the same work just in a different setting and neither felt the need to talk about it. Shortly after their conversation died down, Namjoon had to go back to work. He mainly worked in the backroom but there was almost more work to be done.. Hoseok didn’t mind. He understood the struggle. Namjoon leaving actually left Hoseok excited as he could finally start reading the latest book he grabbed from the library. Giddily, he tapped his feet against the floor and quickly pulled the book out of his bag and started to read. The soft and sure feeling of the hardback book grounded him as he started to be carried away by the words. Distantly, he registered people moving around him as life carried on but he didn’t care one bit. The tension rose in the story the further he read and soon enough he found himself tightly gripping the book as more and more problems arose. Time passed at an unknown rate to Hoseok as someone new sat near him or left or readjusted. He barely noticed any and all changes that happened around him, too absorbed in the world he held in his hands (which he was somehow only a third of the way through). That was until he noticed someone sit across him at his table. They said something that he didn’t quite hear or understand and he quickly tried to get to a stopping point so converse with whoever it was (probably Namjoon back to bother him more).He looked up in shock to see the cute barista from earlier, smiling and taking a bite of her sandwich. You were the last person Hoseok expected to see sitting with him. Maybe an old friend and very possibly Namjoon, but you? A cute barista he barely said one word to? Nope. 

You blushed and started to speak, a hand covering her mouth to hide the food you were eating, “I hope you don’t mind me joining you for my lunch. I noticed you talking to Namjoon-ssi earlier and you’re reading one of my favorite books and I thought that it could be cool to meet and talk to you. I am Y/n by the way.” She smiled brightly and nodded lightly at Hoseok.

Hoseok laughed quietly and blushed himself before nodding with a smile, “I am Hoseok. Why is it your favorite book? Oh! And no spoilers! I just started the second part.” 

“Ah! A bunch of good stuff is about to happen! I am warning you!” You laughed before taking a sip of your drink. 

As you did so, Hoseok looked at what you brought with you, namely your lunch box. Hoseok knew that Namjoon built into the budget a small meal for each of the workers during their shift and it struck Hoseok as endearing that you brought your own food instead of eating the sugary sweets offered in the cafe. It was smart too. The sweets probably wouldn’t be the healthiest to eat daily and you could eat more if you packed your own food. 

“I really enjoyed the story. It just… it traps you and doesn’t let you go. The author is really good about that in general with her works. I have read some of her other works and they’re so good!” You said, your eyes glued on the book splayed on the table and not Hoseok.

“I am learning that now.” Hoseok laughed, “This is my first time reading one of her works and I definitely want to read more of her stuff. I specifically enjoy how she is associating certain aspects of her world with different textures and feelings. ”

You nodded excitedly as Hoseok kept talking, your cheeks full of food as you ate. His heart fluttered endearingly as he watched you eat and talk about the book, your eyes wide and cheeks flushed with excitement. Time was moving almost as quickly as when he read the book and he enjoyed it. There was something fun about talking about a book with someone. He hadn’t done it since high school (Minjae was always more of a movie or show person and he did other things with other people). Until now, reading had been an  activity he’d done alone. He found himself smiling and laughing more with you than he had in awhile. Maybe there was something fun about talking about books with others that Hoseok had been ignoring until now.

Maybe there was something magical about you. 

Maybe it was how your eyes drew him in and kept him there. He didn’t fully know. 

The fun didn’t last too long though. You came to talk during your lunch break and lunch breaks were short. It didn’t help that as they talked more and more, he started getting inspiration on some new pottery and he knew that he would need to start working on them soon or he might lose the idea (that or he’ll lose the inspiration).. Just to be safe, he excused himself after you finished eating your sandwich and made his way to his shop. He tried to ignore the image of you nodding and smiling sadly as he left that bounced around in his head but it was heard. You simply looked so adorable and he wish that he didn’t have to leave.

In fact, he thought about how he left Namjoon’s cafe in a rush  many times over the following week. Regret stewed inside him the more time he dwelled on it and didn’t return to the cafe. He should have risked the idea for talking with you (his new creation barely sold so it probably wasn’t worth losing a conversation). He should have stayed longer. He should have asked you for your number. Then maybe he might have been able to ask you out to meet up (and maybe call it a date). Plus, if he had gotten your number then he might have had enough courage to reenter the shop instead of standing outside of the shop like an absolute buffoon every time he passed it. Like he was currently doing right now.  Inside the shop, people were bustling around. A group of children had gathered there after school and were drinking some sort of milkshakes. People were simply sitting there and working. Friends were meeting up. You were working away behind the counter.

He was standing outside like a loser.

He wished that he had the gall to go in and order something (as well as as for your number) but all he could do was watch you flutter around behind the counter as you worked hard, his own heart fluttering and stuttering as he watched you work. Why was he chickening out? He didn’t have this issue when he officially asked Minjae out but with you Hoseok could barely manage to gather up courage to ask for your number. Maybe he wasn’t actually ready for a new relationship. 

But he couldn’t stop thinking about possibly having one with you. Hoseok was so confused. Friends could ask for numbers too. It wasn’t inherently a romantic action. Hoseok liked the idea of it being a somewhat romantic action. 

He didn’t have the courage to go in today sadly. Hoseok didn’t know when he would have the courage to.

With a disheartened sigh that seemed to cling in the air around him, Hoseok turned around and sat at the bench in front of the cafe. It overlooked streets that were surprisingly empty save for a bus or two. He watched as a couple walked hand in hand on the sidewalk across the street, dopey smiles on their face as they looked at each other. 

A pang of jealousy bubbled up in his stomach as he stared at them. The two looked so happy and content. He wanted that. He wanted that with someone who wanted similar things out of a relationship (unlike Minjae).  Hoseok could be the man across the street holding hands with a romantic partner if he just asked someone out.  

“Crazy seeing you here, Hoseok-ssi.” Your voice shocked Hoseok out of his thoughts, making him jump and turn around to face you. 

Your hair was frizzy from a long day of work but your eyes shone brightly, almost saying that you enjoyed every minute of the hard work you did. Hoseok understood that drive. Your navy blue apron complimented what you were wearing underneath too, over all you looked undeniably cute. You took Hoseok’s breath away. Even if you had coffee stains and looked like death, you would have taken Hoseok's breath away.

“Y-y-yeah! I… Uhhh… I was enjoying the view.” Hoseok managed to stutter out, turning red as he kept stuttering.

“Oh really? Street views are nice… Yet, I had hoped that you might have been thinking about coming into the cafe. Guess I was wrong.” You laughed, sitting next to Hoseok on the bench and taking out your lunch box, this time a dinner tucked neatly into it. 

Hoseok spent a few seconds to look at the tattered lunch box. You must have had it for a while as there were scratches and dents on it that only came with time and repetitive use.

“I-I… well… I might have been thinking about going inside.” 

“And what made you decide to not go inside? Did you want an actual dinner?” You laughed before putting some of your food into your mouth.

“Oh… Uh… no… I just… decided not to. Nothing against the cafe.”

“Ok. And how is the book going?”

“Uhh… It is going decent.”

Hoseok was kicking himself. Just a minute ago he was fantasizing about going on a date with you and thinking about how cute you were and now he could barely finish a sentence! How was he supposed to even possibly ask you out when he couldn’t even get out more than a four word sentence and you were carrying most of the conversation? 

He was handsome, damn it! 

He was a catch! Yet here he was getting flustered by a barista… what has he come to.

You weren’t just any barista though… You were a cute and interesting barista who liked similar books to him.

“Why’d you decide to come outside and eat instead of eating inside?” Hoseok finally asked, trying to push his nerves aside. 

“Oh! Well… It’s hot and stuffy. Plus, you’re here. That helps.” You said quietly and from the corner of Hoseok’s eye he noticed you blush as you gently brushed your shoulder against his. 

A fluttering in Hoseok’s heart made his response get stuck in his throat. What was that supposed to mean? Was she interested in him too? How was he supposed to interpret that?

He cleared his throat and spoke, “Yeah… You’re pretty cool too, I guess.” 

What?

What is all he could say?

How lame!

“I mean, I think you’re cool. I just don’t know you much yet and don’t want to say something that might possibly be wrong… I don’t think you might not be cool though! I just-”

Your laugh interrupted Hoseok and struck him into silence. It was a melodious laugh that he could listen to for hours on end and never get bored. 

“I am glad you think I am cool, Hoseok-ssi.” You said, turning towards Hoseok with a broad smile.

Hoseok’s heart was beating wildly now. Its erratic heartbeats weren’t ideal earlier when you were simply sitting next to him but now? How was he even supposed to focus with you staring at him intently? Especially with your lips looking like the perfect place for his own lips.

Unintentionally, Hoseok started to lean towards you.

They really did look wonderfully soft. 

What was he thinking about?

You were practically a stranger! Even worse: you were Namjoon’s employee! For all he knew you were trying to use Hoseok to get a better pay.

But Namjoon paid his employees well… and most didn’t have tons of room to grow with the work as it was a small cafe. 

“I enjoy your company too, Y/n-ssi.” Hoseok said with a cough as he turned to face the street again. 

All of the sudden he was very focused on how hot he was feeling. It wasn’t summer but the heat was… present. He was probably blushing and sweating from the heat. Nothing else.

“Even if we have a conversation like this? Where we’re both awkward?” You asked with a strained laugh, leaning into Hoseok.

You had stopped eating.

“Uhh… y-y-yeah. I am having fun. Even if it doesn’t seem like I am.” 

“So… would you enjoy my company if we… went on a date, Hoseok-ssi?” You asked slowly, your voice devoid of all laughter.

“Oh. I. Yeah! Totally.” Hoseok’s voice cracked and he leaned back and coughed to try to cover it up, “I mean… It’d be cool, I guess. Yeah. That would be nice.” 

You giggled, “Wonderful. How does… Tomorrow at seven in the evening sound? We can meet up here and then go somewhere close by.” 

That was so soon.

He could make it though.

“Yeah. That works.” Hoseok nodded, trying to ignore the incessant vibrations from his phone that was sitting in his pocket.

“Are you going to take that, Hoseok-ssi?” You asked with a small giggle, already going back to eating your food.

“Oh. Yeah.” 

He quickly grabbed his phone and looked at who was calling. It was Jisoo, one of his employees.

“Hey… boss. I am sorry but uhh… I can’t make it to my shift. I have been vomiting nonstop. I think I have food poisoning. I am about to go to the hospital. I tried asking Jinyoung but apparently he is currently working and can’t do any more overtime. I am so sorry.” Jisoo spoke hurridly.

Hoseok winced at the connotation. He only had two employees aside from him and this meant that he would have to go in and keep the shop open until ten tonight. Five hours more of work and he needed to leave soon.

“Don’t worry, Jisoo. You didn’t intend to get sick. Take care.” Hoseok said before hanging up and looking over at you, “That is sadly my signal to go.”

You looked like a kicked puppy in that moment, a sad gaze growing as you looked up at Hoseok, “Ok. See you tomorrow.”

All while he walked away, he wished that he could turn around and spend the rest of your break together. He felt like an ass for leaving right after agreeing to a date but his shop needed him. It was the curse of a shop owner and it was a curse that Hoseok had chosen. 

Of course, what he hadn’t realized until he got to his shop and Jinyoung had left was that he completely forgot to get your number once again. 

He was such a damn idiot at times!

Now he couldn’t text you to fill the time that he was forced to work. He also couldn’t get any more information about your date. Would it be formal? Casual? Where were you going to take him? Should he get a gift for you? 

It’d make sense that the two of you would be going on a date after your shift because otherwise why would he meet you at Namjoon’s cafe? 

In the end Hoseok fretted all throughout his shift and the night about what he could possibly wear for his date tomorrow. Everything felt wrong and he had no idea what to do. Everything he did and tried on felt like not enough. Nothing felt right and for the first time in a while, he didn’t know what to do. First dates were hard and he didn’t know how to prepare. 

He shaved and just barely missed twenty nics and even took a longer than normal to make sure that he wouldn’t stink during the date but what was he supposed to wear?

Despite his panicking and fears, Hoseok somehow managed to calm himself down to restlessly sleep that night and was even able to work in the morning. After work though, he was back to panicking. Somehow Hoseok managed to settle for wearing a simple pair of light blue jeans, one of his favorite large shirts with a smile on it, and his long tan jacket.

His whole afternoon bleed into itself and eventually Hoseok found himself sitting on the bench outside of Namjoon’s cafe, a single sunflower held loosely in his hands as he waited for you (he got it at some point between changing into his current clothes and coming here but he didn’t know if he could manage to pinpoint exactly when he had).  He barely had enough sense to wear his jacket for when the sun set and it got cold (or if he had to hide in it if you ended up taking him to some fancy restaurant). He would feel so underdressed if you did.

Why would you though?

From what Hoseok understood, you were just coming off of work so you probably wouldn’t want to go to some fancy place. Plus, working in a cafe wasn’t going to get you too much money, even if one’s employer gave them a living wage. You’d probably be a little pressed for money. 

If that was an issue though, Hoseok would be more than happy to pay but he wouldn’t care either way. 

It also probably wasn’t Hoseok’s place to pry at this time either.

In a last ditch attempt to make sure he was ready for the date, he quickly tried to check his breath with his hand, only getting blasted with air in his face instead. How was he even supposed to check his breath with his hand? 

Had his hair got messed up on his trip here?

Had they even agreed to meet here? Maybe you said a different place instead? 

Just to check, he looked inside the cafe and didn’t see you there. It was almost seven so maybe you were in the back? Maybe he could just text Namjoon to make sure you were off at seven. Hoseok didn’t want to overstep yet. 

“Are you looking for someone in there, Hoseok-ssi?” You asked from beside him, scaring him to the point that he jumped up and almost dropped the sunflower in his hands.

Once he managed to get his bearings again, his breath was taken away by how etheral you looked. There was almost no way that you had come from work, Hoseok was sure of that. Your hair was beautifully and simply styled and your outfit… Hoseok loved every bit of it. His heart fluttered slightly as he looked you over again (barely noticing the reddening blush growing on your face). You looked so good and for the umpteenth time that day, he questioned his own choice in clothes. He might be really underdressed. 

Dress pants would have been better to wear instead of jeans. What was he thinking? He really goofed up.

“Y-You look wonderful tonight, Y/n-ssi.” Hoseok finally said, blushing lightly as you laughed quietly.

“So do you, Hoseok-ssi.” You complimented, a broad smile on your face as you stepped closer and looked down at the sunflower.

“I… Uhhh… I got this for you. I don’t know what your favorite flower is or if you even like flowers but I thought it would be nice.” He stuttered out, quickly giving the flower to you. 

You looked up at Hoseok with a small laugh before saying, “I love it Hoseok-ssi. Shall we get to the restaurant? I got a reservation for seven thirty.”

“A reservation! I guess it is really fancy, huh?” Hoseok asked, rubbing his neck nervously as he started to walk with you.

“No. Not really. It is just popular and I didn’t want to have to spend the night looking for somewhere to eat. I hope you like Haemul Pajeon (vegetable pancake), I got us a reservation at a small place that is just about three blocks down the street. They make wonderful food.” 

“I love the sound of that. How’s your day been so far, Y/n-ssi?” Hoseok asked, biting his lip to hide a large smile growing on his face.

Haemul Pajeon was one of his favorite foods… and Y/n was being so considerate. He was feeling so soft and mushy. How dare you make him feel so soft. 

He loved it.

“It hasn’t been the best. I worked the morning shift and… well there are always rude customers but morning people have such a strange breed of rude customers.” You had started rambulling, animatedly gesturing and talking about the rude morning customers.

Hoseok simply watched and listened as you kept going on, a content and fuzzy feeling washing over him as he kept waking next to you. Occasionally your shoulders and hands brushed as you expertly led the way to the restaurant while ranting and while it left Hoseok reeling, it didn’t seem to phase you at all. He could live with that though. As long as you were happy. 

In the midst of all your rambling about work, the two of you made it to the restaurant. It was at the bottom of a large building, the upper floors likely dedicated to apartments or business offices. Even from the outside, Hoseok could see a large mass of people jostling around in the restaurant. Large friend groups talking and moving around the restaurant drunkenly, couples draped over each other, and restaurant workers expertly weaving through the masses. 

It was obviously a popular place and it made Hoseok just a little nervous. How would you and him get to talk much when all that was happening around you two? Maybe it would be more of a people watching event? One where he only really talked when it came to theories about other’s lives outside of this restaurant. 

There wasn’t too much time to think though as the two quickly started walking inside. You only stopped talking after introducing yourself to the hostess. In the silence between you two, Hoseok looked around the restaurant. It looked different from the outside. Whereas earlier it looked as if it would be a party place, now that Hoseok was inside, he could see a semblance of organization to the chaos.

Despite both you and Hoseok not talking, there wasn’t a silence that fell. The whole of the restaurant was lively and filled with a soft amiability that Hoseok really enjoyed. 

“Alright. Your reservation is ready. Please follow me.” The hostess said, bowing slightly before turning around and starting to weave through the tables. 

Hoseok swallowed his nerves before he started walking in front of you (the three of you had to walk single file because the space was too small to walk side by side) and gently grabbed your hand from behind. People were bumping up against him as he quickly followed behind the hostess but his grip on you didn’t falter. He hoped that his hand wasn’t too sweaty and that he wasn’t gripping you too hard, but Hoseok was nervous and he didn’t want to lose you in the crowd (or let go of your hand yet). 

The table that you had reserved was tucked in a corner and overlooked all of the action happening in the bar. There was a small candle lit between the two of you that flickered gently in the soft breeze created by the fans above. Hoseok liked the spot.

“I just realized,” You started with a laugh once you sat down, “I talked the whole walk here. Silly me. I got carried away. How has your day been so far?” 

“I like listening to you talk so it’s ok. As for my day, it has been a good day. I didn’t make any more pottery, but I headed the shop and got some good work done there.” Hoseok started, a large smile on his face as he looked across the table at you. 

“Oh! So you’re one of Namjoon’s business friends?”

Hoseok snorted at that. Namjoon did have a lot of business friends at this point.

“Yeah. I think I might be Namjoon’s first business friend though. We met in high school and have been friends since. Back in high school Namjoon wanted to be an astrologer believe it or not.” 

“Oh? I wouldn’t have guessed!” You laughed, “So what do you do?”

“I am a potter. My shop is just two streets over from the cafe you work at.” Hoseok nodded.

“Own. Namjoon and I are co-owners. I run the front.” You corrected lightly, “How about we look at the menu?” 

“Oh. Yeah. Let’s look.” Hoseok nodded along, somewhat caught off guard.

You were the co-owner? It made sense, Hoseok thought as he opened the menu, you looked like she belonged in that cafe. Plus, you were closer to Namjoon’s age than the other baristas' ages. He should have seen it coming. 

After a few minutes of looking through the menu Hoseok spoke up, “So… have you figured out what you’re going to get?” 

“Yeah. I am thinking of getting Haemul Pajeon with a side of chicken feet. What about you?” 

“Uhhh… I think that I am going to get Haemul Pajeon as well but with a side of kimchi. I’m not too hungry today.” Hoseok laughed lightly thinking back to his two large stress induced meals earlier today. 

You snorted and laughed lightly before taking a sip of your water, “I get that. Plus, the Haemul Pajeon are quite large. They have great deals.” 

Shortly after you two decided, a waiter came by and took your order, and then Hoseok and you were left in amicable silence once again. He was a ball of nerves once again and he had no idea of where to go from here… He wasn’t this anxious when he started dating Minjae… why was it so hard with you? Maybe because he was genuinely interested in you from the start and he was scared of screwing it up. Maybe because he had just spent most of the day fretting over this date and now that it was here, he realized that he didn’t think over the right stuff. 

“So,” Hoseok coughed lightly, hoping to clear his throat some, “Do you come to this restaurant often?”

“Not really. I came here the first night I moved into the apartment complex above the cafe but since then I haven’t. I actually came here on my own and just sat at the bar and talked to random strangers. It is amazing to see what conversations one can have when they’re open to it.” You said with a smile as you looked over at the bustling bar space. 

“I can imagine. I haven’t gone to bars much so I don’t have such conversations often but I have never had a dull conversation.” Hoseok said wistfully, thinking back to some of the talks that he had when he volunteered to help the homeless back in Gwangju. He wanted to keep up the volunteer work when he moved to Seoul but it simply didn’t happen. He got carried away with his studies and his life and service work simply got put on a backburner.

“Yeah? I doubt that, Hoseok-ssi.” You laughed, “I can’t believe you’ve never had a dull conversation. Not even one with a boring professor?”

Hoseok laughed lightly and shrugged, “I mean, I guess you could count some of those conversations as dull. I guess I was more thinking about general conversations with people… not cardboard cutouts.” 

You snorted at this before taking a large sip of your water, blush rising quickly on your face. A sense of pride washed over Hoseok at your reaction. He had made you laugh. It felt good to make someone smile this much. 

“I loved most of my professors, don’t get me wrong. They were amazing, but oh my gosh. Ask Namjoon about Professor Gaewon who taught our Stat 240. He was such a snore.” Hoseok started animatedly, smiling as you laughed again, “Even for me and I double majored in Statistics and Business. Dude could put me to sleep in seconds. Lecture or not. I went to one of his office hours once and it was even worse.” 

“Oh really?” You asked with a laugh, raising your eyebrows and looking at him with a lopsided grin.

“Oh yeah! I wanted to know a little more information about some complicated statistic and the details and whatnot, nerdy stuff really. He got so excited but you couldn’t tell because he talked in such a monotone voice,” Hoseok smiled brightly before he started mimicking Professor Gaewon, “This statistic, blah blah blah. It is interesting stuff.”

You were laughing uncontrollably at this point and Hoseok couldn’t help but indulge in the butterflies that fluttered wildly in his stomach. This was amazing.

“Needless to say, I didn’t go to his office hours after that.” 

You nodded, “I didn’t have anything like that in college. I mean, I was also not a business major and didn’t have to take any stat classes but I mostly got a lot of very pretentious professors who had written books or wild professors who I loved. I didn’t enjoy the former.” You laughed lightly and shook your head, “They seemed to think that they knew everything. It was painful.” 

“Oh? What’d you major in?” 

“I double majored in Literature and History. I love it. Don’t use it much with my work but that is ok.” You said, coming to a stop when the waitress came with sides for the food. 

You and Hoseok slightly bowed to the waiter before turning back to each other and smiling. For a couple minutes, the conversation died down and the noise of the restaurant around you two filled the air as both of you indulged in the sides. Before you and Hoseok had time to continue conversing, the waiter returned and gave both of you your Haemul Pajeon and the two of you dug in All throughout eating, the two of you made comments about how the Haemul Pajeon compared to what you two had had in the past. 

Somehow, all the time in the restaurant blurred together and before he even knew it, the two of them were back at Namjoon’s and your cafe. It had closed by now, the windows dark and reflecting the party life outside. 

“Well… this was a great night, Hoseok-ssi.” You said, swaying forwards and backwards with a soft and happy smile plastered across your face. 

Hoseok felt giddy looking at you. How did he get so lucky to have you ask him out? 

“It was. I would love to do it again sometime.” 

“Yeah.” You giggled and bit your lip as you asked.

“Yeah.” Hoseok nodded, biting his own lip as he took a step closer to you.

You took a step closer to him as well, your smile growing as you reached out and grabbed Hoseok’s waist. He leaned closer at this and gently pressed his lips against yours, you quickly reciprocating. His hands rose to cup your face as the kiss got heated, soon enough tongues starting to intertwine. 

A moan left him as you broke the kiss, a sly smile spreading on your face, “You may have to work for my phone number first, Hoseok-ssi.” 

He groaned quietly and smiled, his hands sliding down your soft face to your shoulders, “Well then, can I get your number then, Y/n-ssi?” 

You took a step away from Hoseok and giggled as his hands fell to his sides, “Nope. Try again tomorrow… then I will consider. Until then, good night, Hoseok-ssi.” 

[honeysuckleharrison]

Run For Your Life Parts I-III

pairing- George Harrison x (John's sister) Reader

warnings- So much fluff

year- 1964

Summary- You're falling hard for George.  There's just a few problems. John Lennon is your protective older brother, and their band, The Beatles are leaving for their first tour in America.  

Word count- 4k+

Disclaimer/ AN-  So hi, this is the first fic I've published.  This is FICTION. So the timeline may not match up with reality.  For example, Julians not in it. So ignore that, and just enjoy the story for what it's worth.  Anyways, I'm so excited to release my first fic. If you guys have any questions, or comments or anything, please comment or as, don't be afraid to talk to me.  I have up to part IX almost done, so expect to see more parts soon! Huge shutout to @iimplicitt she helped me edit, and such. Thanks so much girl!

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

Part I

     George looked up at you with wide eyes, and it was only seconds before his hand reached up to cup your cheek, and your lips collided.  You had been waiting for this to happen for years. His lips pressed into yours softly at first. He pulled back and looked at you. You stared back at him,noticing every detail.  His cheekbones were so prominent, his thick, untamed eyebrows gave his eyes a dark, and lustful look. You were so needy for him, and you knew now that he made the first move, that he wanted you too. You leaned in and kissed him harder, placing your hands on his shoulders. His lips were chapped, but still felt so perfect on yours. Despite your attempt he took control of the embrace again.  He leaned into you, making the kiss deeper, and deeper with each passing second.

        Being John's little sister, you never expected this to actually happen again.  He was always so protective of you.  When you first met george, he was still in his teddy phase, and you immediately caught feelings.  You found out that it would only end badly considering him and your overprotective brother were in the same band.

      George was now holding onto your waist for his life, and your arms were wrapped around his neck.  The whole time he continued slowly pushing himself further on top of you. Seconds ago he was just sitting there tuning his guitar on the couch besides you, and now all of his attention was on you.  His tongue pushed passed your lips with ease. He knew exactly how much tongue to use, and his hands were squeezing your waist just right. His kiss was perfect and needy. You almost forgot you were in a recording studio waiting for the other three boys in his band to come back after slipping out for reasons you quickly forget.  You and George forgot everything but each other. He continued to press his lips against yours so perfectly. George kissed you even deeper and you were now laying down on the couch, being completely dominated by him. You could feel him getting hard on top of you. It felt so right as he slipped a little more tongue in your mouth, and his hands started finding their way under your shirt.  Just as you started to break away to tell him how much you wanted this, and how perfect he was, the door knob started turning.

      You both shot up so fast, returning back to your original positions.  Your heart was racing, and you could feel the sweat pouring out of every gland on your skin.  You tried your best not to pant, or show any signs that anything out of the ordinary just happened.  As the boys stepped in, you shot a quick look at George. He was blushing just as much as you were and he was about 10 shades paler.  He rested his hands in his crotch in an attempt to hide what you caused. His legs were shaking nervously, and his head was down in embarrassment.   He knew what would happen if you were caught almost as well as you did.

     John, Paul and ringo came into the room and saw you and George sitting together.  John immediately noticed something wasn't quite right.

       "You and y/n must've had a good chat I see you've left your guitar on the floor" John said, pointing to George's guitar, "The thing never leaves your hands, what was so important?" George had thrown it to the ground in the moment without thinking.  

      "We were talking!" you cut in, "George was just asking about what you were like when you were younger.  I told him about the time you um…" you stuttered, "The time you left the bath running for hours and flooded the whole bathroom, remember that?" you said in an attempt to cover your tracks.  George politely smiled at you, and wordlessly thanked you for covering for him. His skin was returning to normal, and he seemed to be more at ease. It was a quick recovery, but it had to be.

      "How could I forget." John replied, "George, come on we've got to start recording, we got Ringo new sticks, the kind he likes too."  Ringo held up the still packaged sticks smiling, as him and the band made there way back behind the glass. You smiled back at Ringo, but the smile disappeared as you felt George leave your side.               "Y/n, sit tight we'll be done soon enough. Sorry i had to drag you along, couldn't leave you home alone now could I, God knows what kind of trouble you'd get yourself into." John teased.

      If only he understood the irony.  He always added comments like that, making sure everyone knew he was the older, protective brother, despite only being a few years older than you.  You put your head back and thanked god that you had not been caught. Your nerves were calmed now that you knew you were safe for now. It didn't take long for the boys to start playing.

       You and George shot quick looks at each other throughout the session, trying to decipher each others thoughts.  George was not an easy man to understand, and you spent most of the 2 hours you were there trying to get an idea of how he felt about what had just happened.  George almost always wore the same blank expression. He rarely smiled, or changed his face much, making the task at hand a lot harder. Your best guess was that he was just as lost in thought as you were.  As he sat on the amp, playing the same chords through each take, you noticed the only thing that changed were his eyes. Sometimes they looked emotionless, other times you could see something glimmering behind them.  They never seemed angry though, which was a good sign. Luckily for you, John was too busy yelling at the other members (mostly Paul) to notice the looks you and George shared.

   After they were done, and you ran out of compliments to offer the boys and their new music, you all stepped out.  You were somehow lucky enough to get a second alone with George while the others shouted about something that didn't matter.

    "Hi y/n" George said grinning, and trying not to sound too excited.  You said hi back, grinning and blushing in the same way he was.

     "You remember where i live right, just a block from John?" George asked

"Yes I do, as a matter of fact" you answered, still smiling too big.

      "Great, then I'll see you tonight" he said

       "What do you want me to do Harrison, Sneak out?" you asked.  George didn't reply, he only grinned at you, and winked. You could feel your cheeks getting hotter after your quiet conversation with George ended.  It was shorter than you would have liked it to be, but you weren't trying to let John notice anything. Geroge walked away to his car, and John called you over to his car.

"C'mon y/n, we have to get back, Cynth could use some help cooking." John yelled to you.  

      You had been staying with John and Cynthia for a week.  It was the first week of summer Holliday. John had moved out a while ago and had been missing his little sister, so he invited you to stay over for a bit to help out around the house, and visit the studio.  You agreed, knowing a change would be nice. It would be like a mini vacation from your typical life, you could experience a new world not far from home, even if just for a week.

part II

      You lay wide awake on the couch of John and Cynthia's house.  As you lay there, reflecting on your day, a memory came back to you that you had repressed.  It happened about four or five years ago. It was about the second or third time you met George.         

        John had invited you to come see his band perform.  They had made a few good songs at that point, and he was proud.  So you agreed. It was the first time you had seen them perform. They were good, they're music made you want to move, and they didn't make any mistakes.  

     As you watched them play, you were drawn to the Guitar player.  His hair was spiked up, and his ears stuck out. He had a leather jacket on, like all the other teddy boys wore.  For most of the show he looked pretty serious. He was nervous; it was one of his first performances. But as they went on, and he became more comfortable, he let a smile out.  His smile was big, and he always showed his teeth. Something about the way he danced on that stage just drew you in. So after the show, you introduced yourself.

      "Hi," he said shaking your hand "Y/n? Right? It's nice to see you again."

      "Yeah, it's nice to see you too George." you said, blushing without realizing.

     "How'd you like the show?" He asked

      "I enjoyed myself.  Were you nervous?" you teased.

      "Well you should know" he answered bluntly, "You were watching me the whole time, weren't you?"  You blushed hard, and your mouth fell open.

      "I- I was, I can't lie." you stammered

       "It's okay.  Your a pretty lad,  I don't mind." He admitted.

      "You're not too bad yourself." You replied.  Your cheeks were red, but so were his. You were involuntarily smiling ridiculously big.  

      "I know." he quipped, "Tell me this, Would John be mad if I kissed you right now?" he wondered.  

       "Yes, he would be." You answered.

      "Then I suppose we should go 'round back, where he wouldn't see us." he suggested.  Your eyes grew wide. You really wanted to, so you just nodded. He smirked at your decision, and he slipped out with you as the rest of the boys talked to fans, and packed up.  

       The two of you walked around, and banted.  

       "So were the same age, right? I'm 15." he asked

      "Yes we are." you answered, "You're on my grade. You're always getting in trouble in class, aren't you?"

      "I suppose I am.  Teachers just don't like me i guess."

      "Do they really not like you, or is it the attitude, Harrison?"  you questioned.

      "Maybe it is. So what?  All I can do is try my best.  I'm not changing myself to the teachers' liking."  

"You're right." you said.  George had always been a laid back guy.  He was great at giving advice, and getting people through tough times.  He would always know what to say. He believed that life wasn't such a big thing.  You go about, trying your best, and loving everyone as much as you can.

      After walking and conversing for a bit, George stopped you around the far side of the building.  It was dark, and chilly. A yellow street light shown above you just enough so you could see. You rested against the brick wall and looked up at him, waiting for him to explain why he stopped you.  

      "Is this far enough?" He asked, with a grin across his face.

      "I suppose it is." you said, smiling back.  Right then, George put his hand on your cheek.  You put your hand on his shoulder in response, and looked into his eyes.  They were sparkling, he was so pleased to be here with you. It was your first kiss, and you were excited to be able to share it with him.  

      George leaned in slow and sweet.  When his lips finally met yours it was perfect.  His lips were warm, and soft against yours. It was just a quick peck, but you couldn't have asked for anything more.  

      Just before he pulled away, a door swung open.  Light poured out onto you and George, and both of your faces shot towards the door.

     "Geor-" John shouted from the doorway.  He stopped when he saw what was happening.  The other 2 boys were right behind him, peeking behind the door.  Paul and Ringo were shocked, but smiled with pride at George. At this young age they didn't get as many girls.  But John had a different reaction. His face went red hot, and he didn't hold back.

      "Get your hands off my sister right now, or I swear to god you will never see the light of day again!" John yelled.

      George pulled away from you and put his hands up.  The color left both of your faces. You were in shock.  

      "I'm.. 'm so sorry John.. I- I didn't mean to-" George stammered.  He didn't mean to? This was all a mistake, you thought. George was attractive and sweet, but he was off limits.  John wouldn't let any boy touch you, let alone his close friend.

      "Damn right you didn't.  You should know to keep your hands off her!" John said, calming down a bit, "C'mon y/n, were leaving right now."  John snarled at you. He grabbed your arm and yanked you away from George. George just stepped out of the way; he knew not to mess with John when he got angry.  You tried to wave goodbye to George, but John was pulling you away too fast.

       As you left, you heard the boys teasing George.  

       "Aww man, we were looking everywhere for you and you were out here messing around with John's sister!" Paul laughed.  

      "Yeahl." George said.  He rubbed his neck nervously, and fake laughed.  He was embarrassed. George really did like y/n, but he couldn't say anything.  John would kill him if this went on any further, and the boys would tease him if he was crushing.  

      "You almost lost your virginity this time." Paul said, cackling, "Wish it could of been me, y/n's a pretty one isn't she?  Guess she got the looks instead of John." Paul was laughing too hard now. Was he seriously drunk? It sure seemed like it.  

      Your eyes went wide as you listened to Paul's comments.  Did Paul really feel that way about you?

     Not knowing what to say, John whipped around and stared at Paul.  His angry eyes said everything he needed them to, and Paul stopped laughing.  He just stood there almost as embarrassed as George.

   As you remembered that incident, you felt embarrassed all over again.  How could you forget that? It took years of trying to repress it.

        You checked the clock. 1:27 am.  They must surely be asleep now. You slowly get up off the couch, trying to make as little noise as possible.  If John didn't come out after hearing you get up, he must be asleep. You head towards the front door without thinking much of it.  You put your flip flops on, and as soon as you touch the door knob, it hits you. Your attempting to sneak out for the first time ever.  At least if you do it here your parents won't find out. But if John found out you were sneaking around,he wouldn't be happy. Not to mention your going to visit a boy who is one of your brothers closest friends.  And you'd only started any sort of real relationship with this boy that day. This was risky. Getting caught would end horribly for you and George. Could you even trust George to keep this a secret? What is George even really like? Besides a few small chats, you've never actually gotten to know him. So, What's he like, and is he worth the risk? Guess there's only one way to find out.  You push the door open soundlessly and slip out towards George's place.

    The streets were lit yellow by the street lamps, and you somehow weren't too scared.  All sorts of creatures chirp and buzz around you, making you feel not alone on your adventure.  This was risky, and you knew it, but you couldn't help but feel a buzz of hydrenylyne while folding your arms nervously.  

      Finally you reached George's flat.  You went to knock, and hesitated. The lights were on, you knew he was awake, but you were nervous, and crushing hard for him.  You smiled, and blushed as you began to think of all the things that could be said. He obviously likes you back, that's why he kissed you, right? right? What if he doesn't.  Your smile drop and your eyebrows furrow, thinking of a new possibility.  What if he wants to tell you that was a mistake? no? It can't be that, the way he blushed during your last conversation outside of the studio proves that he's gotta like you.  Enough, you think.  You quit hesitating and knock on the door.  

      George opens the door so quickly and smiles wider than you've ever seen him smile before.  He pulls you in for another kiss. You kiss him back. See, you think, he does like you, duh.  Unlike last time, this kiss is short, and sweet.  He hadn't asked to kiss you either time. You liked that about him.  He knew you liked him so he took control of the situation.

      "Come in, please" George says, gesturing for you to step in his house.  He's blushing, and so are you. You've had boyfriends before, you've kissed people before, so why are you falling so hard for George?  You nodded, and stepped into the front door. His house was finilar, you'd been there before with John a few times.

       But despite the familiarity of the situation, everything felt new, and different.  Like you were going to experience something you've never experienced before. You hated this hopeful, lovey feeling.  You've always been more logical. But your emotional side was taking over. You stood in the doorway, looking around for a few seconds.

        "So" George spoke, breaking the silence, "I really enjoyed myself today,  I've liked you for a while now, I just wasn't sure if It would be appropriate considering…." he trailed off.  You knew what he was going to say; he was going to say he didn't know if it was okay to date your best friends little sister.  George seemed ecstatic that he could finally admit his attraction to you. He looked down at the floor, and peeked his eyes up at you.  It was your turn to speak.

      "I feel the same way.  I've always liked you. I can't believe you actually made the first move, I-"  you admitted. You were cut short when George took your hand in his. He had walked closer to you without you noticing.  His hands were slim, and boney, and his fingertips were rough from years of playing guitar. He looked down at you with the same wide eyes as before.  His slim frame towered above you. You hugged him tight. His hug was amazing. His waist is small, allowing you to wrap your arms all the way around him, and his cotton shirt was soft against your cheek.   He didn't like speaking, or affection, but he seemed to be unbothered by doing either with you. He was obviously falling hard for you. You both took a moment and look at each other.

      This was really happening.  You had snuck out of your brother's apartment to visit his band mate's house.  And he was really holding you. You had liked this boy for ages, and he made the first move in you.  Everything seemed perfect, but you knew deep down that nothing could be perfect.

      "I'm so glad you actually came" he said softly, pulling you back into reality.  "You look so beautiful, y/n." he added.

     "Of course," you assured, "You're not so bad yourself." you joked.  

      "I know, right?" He joked

      You let out a small laugh and reached up to stroke his rosey cheek.  You leaned in to each other for another sweet kiss. He pulled you to the couch by your hand.  He sat you down next to him and started a conversation. He told you about the band, how they were getting bigger and bigger.  You could tell he loved being in The Beatles, and he was proud of his success. He asked you about your life. You told him that you had just finished your first year of university, and you were visiting John.  You talked to him for hours. George was sweet, and charming, but he had this dark quality about him. He made sarcastic quips every chance he could. You loved that he had a sense of humor. He wasn't too serious, but if the conversation got a little more grave, his mood adjusted with it.

      While you are talking you remembered something.  "George, doesn't Ringo live with you, where is he?"

     "He does, He's out with Maureen right now."  he answered. You were relieved that Ringo wasn't there now, but he would make sneaking around a lit harder.  What if Ringo catches you?

       "George" you said nervously.  

       "Yes, love?"

        "What if," you say choking up a bit "What if we get caught.  John would kill us, and what if Ringo comes home and sees us what if-"  

     You were cut short by George's lips.  He pressed a soft loving kiss against your mouth.  "Love, I won't let us get caught." he assured, "I'd do anything to stay with you, I'll die before John laid a finger on you."  You nodded and looked into his eyes. You could see he meant it. "I won't hurt you, I've got you forever." he added.

       You were really falling for him hard.  He kissed you again, harder this time, and didn't pull away.  You kissed him back, letting him grab your waist. He was so attractive, and you wanted him so bad.  It was getting late and you knew would have to leave soon, but you decided to let this go on for a few more moments.  You also knew what he said earlier couldn't be true. All relationships end in someone hurt at some point, and you knew that by now.  

Part III

   The light peeking through the windows forced your eyes open.  You sit up when you realized that you aren't in your house. You looked around, the clock read 9:16, and you remembered that you were at John's house.  Memories started flooding back into your mind. you recalled sneaking out the night before to meet George. You cheeks became hot at the thought of last night.  You remembered back to the studio incident. Yesterday was amazing.

      John stepped out of his room into the living room.  "Good morning y/n" he said while stretching out his tired limbs.  " Ya hungry?" he asked before you had a chance to speak.

      "Goodmorning, yeah I am." you replied.  

      "Great, get dressed, there's a cafe around the corner."  You smiled. It wasn't unlike John to take you out, he was a good brother, but it was uncommon.  You rarely got the chance to spend time with him, so you were excited.

      At the cafe, you and John immediately started a nice conversation.  You sat in front of each other in a red plastic booth. You ordered breakfast, and waited patiently for the waiter to arrive. He asked you about your classes, and you proudly told him that you aced them all.  You started getting into conversation about college, and he avoided telling you anything that might get him in too much trouble.

      " What about you," he asked, "have you gotten yourself into trouble yet, ya'know, drank too much, snuck out?"  You choked on your iced tea as the words left his lips. "Cause i sure have." He added, not noticing your reaction.  

      "No, no," you lied, "I've just been enjoying myself, nothing too crazy yet." It was basically the truth, you hadn't done anything too crazy.  You only snuck out that one time. The conversation continued, and you tried your best not to seem suspicious.

      "I remember when I was your age I had a nasty break up." he told you, "it was a mess, I broke her heart."  You frowned.

     "I'm sorry." you said.  

      "I guess I'm just telling you to let you know boys are shit at that age.  They treat you wrong most of the time." he explained. "You're going to date someone, at some point, even though I don't want you to. I guess I just want you to know it's not so great out in the real world."  It was like he was reading your mind. He was hitting every point that resonated with you. Surely there was no way he knew what was happening.

      "Yeah," you said, slouching, "I'm gonna have to learn sooner or later aren't I?" you asked

      "Well i guess so." he replied "Some people don't have to learn the hard way, maybe you won't have to who's to say."  

      "Your right, maybe I'll meet a nice boy."  You say grinning.

      "Hm, There's a chance, a small one, but there's a chance." he said thinking out loud.

      After he says that, the waiter delivers the food.  You take a break from the conversation to stuff your faces.  But once you slow down, John starts questioning you again

      "So, you were talking to George, are you guys friends now?" He asked

      You tried hard not to look suspicious, and it seemed to work.  "Yeah, I suppose we just had a good conversation, that's all."

      "Good, good.  It's good if the boys aren't rude to you.  I'd have to beat them up if they were." He joked

      John continued sharing his wisdom with you.  He was still young and making mistakes, but he had made more than you.  He was the type to learn from his mistakes. Sometimes he makes the same mistake more than once, but at some point, somehow he always admits he's wrong.   You were listening to him closely, trying to accept the lessons he was teaching you. But it was hard because George was perfect. John was going on about how things will go wrong, but it really didn't seem like they wouldn't.  Maybe you were being naive, or maybe you were right.

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

AN- Ahhhhh! How did you feel about all that? What did you like, what did you dislike? Any predictions? Anything you want to happen? Sorry for any mistakes.

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

Taglist- @foreverandtayways

[365daysoftododeku]

20th July 2019

Author: Liz

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Play Ball

“Kacchan, why am I here?” Midoriya pouts at his best friend as they stand behind a crowd of fans, waiting to enter the stadium. 

“Shut up, nerd,” Bakugou scoffs, stepping forward with the line, inching closer to the metal detectors and ticket checkers. “Ei gets to start today because the other guy is hurt.” Glaring at the smaller male, Bakugou’s eyes dare Midoriya to complain more. 

“I know that, Kacchan,” Midoriya resists the urge to roll his eyes. “But why am I here?” He fiddles with the paper ticket in his fingers. 

“Because he’s your friend too, asshole,” Bakugou shoots back before moving up to third in line. Midoriya sighs and follows the blonde. The conversation goes silent after that as the two get their tickets scanned and pass through the metal detector without any problems. 

Midoriya trails behind Bakugou as they make their way to their seats, studying the baseball fans passing by. He smiles at excited children with ice cream staining their lips and parents sporting jerseys of their favorite players. 

Midoriya doesn’t know much at all about baseball, so he feels very out of place. But Bakugou was right, Kirishima was a good friend of his, as well as his roommate, and he was excited for him to be starting (whatever that means). 

The two men reach their seats on the far end of the third base side and Midoriya pulls out the team program, determined to understand more about the sport and players. 

“Kacchan! Look!” Finding Kirishima’s profile, Midoriya points at the redhead’s picture before beaming at Bakugou. 

The blonde’s cheeks tint red before he clicks his teeth and looks away. “I see it, ya damn nerd,” Bakugou leans forward, elbows on his knees as he glares at the field ahead of them where Kirishima and his team are warming up. Midoriya internally smirks before looking back at the booklet. 

Midoriya mutters to himself as he reads each profile, then abruptly shuts up when he reaches the pitchers name. Bakugou, on the edge of blowing up because of the constant noise falling from Midoriya’s lips, notices the sudden silence from the male beside him and looks over.

“What is it, Deku?” Bakugou asks with an exasperated expression. Midoriya jolts in his seat and blushes. 

“N-Nothing, Kacchan.” Midoriya dismisses the blonde, but Bakugou isn’t having it. Glancing at the book in the freckled teen’s hands, Bakugou quickly snatches it and looks at the page Midoriya had been staring at. “Kacchan!!” Midoriya yells and tries taking back the program. 

“Seriously? Half-n-half?” Bakugou snorts, holding the book out of Midoriya’s reach. “Like what you see, huh, Deku?” The blonde smirks at his best friend.

“Give it back, Kacchan.” Midoriya ignores the teasing tone, stretching further to grab the program. Bakugou chuckles darkly, leaving a small window of opportunity for Midoriya to take back the program. “I just think he’s, y’know…” Midoriya mumbles, words trailing off as he stares again at the red and white haired athlete. 

Bakugou scoffs without a reply and returns to watching his boyfriend warm-up the pitcher that Midoriya happens to be swooning over.

-

“But I thought you said the pitchers don’t hit?” Midoriya asks Bakugou his hundredth question of the night and Bakugou is shaking with anger. 

“Only if that can’t hit, Deku,” The words come out short and curt. Smoke is practically puffing from Bakugou’s ears and Midoriya knows he’s walking on thin ice, but he has to know. 

“So, Todoroki can hit?” Deku keeps his eyes on the home pitcher. Todoroki is a lefty, and being on the third base side, Midoriya has a perfect view of the male’s full body and handsome face that is scarred around his left eye.

Bakugou grunts because if he talks, it’ll come out mean and he can’t deal with Midoriya’s tears right now, not when Kirishima’s team it so close to their first ever shutout. Todoroki is only up to bat now because the DH got hit by a pitch and the team’s pitcher was the only other slugger. 

The scores 2-0 in the bottom of the seventh and UA is winning. The count is two balls and two strikes and Midoriya is on the edge of his seat, even though he’s not entirely sure why. 

A changeup is thrown and Todoroki swings and Midoriya is knocked out. 

-

“Wha?” Midoriya comes to about an hour later. The game is over and people are heading home, but he’s in the first aid room and Bakugou’s talking with Kirishima at the door. 

“Hey nerd, how ya doing?” Bakugou takes note of his friend waking up and makes his way over to the freckled male laying on the makeshift hospital bed. Bakugou sits in a plastic chair beside Midoriya. 

“‘M jus’ fine, Kaccha,” Midoriya slurs. The blonde snorts and Kirishima cackles loudly. 

“Man, Sho got him hard.” The redhead continues to chuckle while walking towards the two. Midoriya begins to giggle too, even though he has no idea what Kirishima is laughing about. 

“Whatcha laughing about, Deku?” Bakugou raises an annoyed eyebrow. 

“I dunno,” Midoriya sighs happily. His head lulls to the side as his eyes begin to close again.

“Hey! Nerd!” Bakugou yells in Midoriya’s ear, causing the male to jolt and open his eyes widely. He looks over at his best friend. “Can’t go back to sleep.”

“But ‘m tired,” Midoriya whines, squeezing his eyes shut to make a point. 

“Oi!” Bakugou’s volume increases and Kirishima shushes his boyfriend because he’s too loud. Bakugou quietly snarls at the redhead before lowering his voice only slightly. “Keep your eyes open, Deku.” Bakugou’s voice is stern and Midoriya reluctantly opens his eyes. 

“But the room is spinning, Kaccha,” Midoriya’s head shakes side to side against the thin pillow.

“Dammit,” Bakugou curses. “Shitty Hair, go get the medic.” Kirishima darts out the door and Bakugou stands, laying a gentle hand on Midoriya’s shoulder. “Just keep your eyes open and focus on me, nerd,” Midoriya stops moving his head and faces Bakugou. His pupils are blown wide and for just a moment, Bakugou is worried about his friends health. 

“Thanks Kaccha,” Midoriya’s hand flops across his torso, trying to reach the blonde’s touch. “You’re so nice.” Bakugou flushes at the compliment and clicks his teeth. 

“Shut up, nerd.” Bakugou demands and taps his foot, anxious for his boyfriend’s return. 

Moments later, Kirishima jogs back into the room, a medic and Todoroki close behind. 

“Hello, Mr. Midoriya, my name is Jason, how’re you feeling?” The medic takes Bakugou’s spot as the blonde steps backwards, but stays close to Midoriya. 

“Ggggreat!” Midoriya says enthusiastically and Kirishima snorts behind his hand, causing Todoroki to smack him in the side, eliciting a soft “ow” from the redhead. 

“I’m glad to hear that. I assume you’re tired?” Midoriya nods quickly then suddenly stops, eyes wide. “Don’t move too much, or you’ll get dizzy.” Midoriya responds with a soft okay and glances around the room. When he notices Todoroki, he points at the male with a wide grin.

“It’s you!” Midoriya yells trying to sit up, but Bakugou holds him down. The blonde looks at Todoroki and nods his head, beckoning the athlete over. 

Todoroki walks closer nervously. “H-Hi,” He whispers before coughing into his fist. “Hello, I’m Shouto Todoroki.” he introduces himself formally and Midoriya beams.

“‘M ‘Zuku Midoriya!” His words are becoming clearer, but the slurring is still prominent. Todoroki’s lips twitch to a smile, but then quickly form into a frown. 

“I’m really sorry,” Todoroki looks at his shoes with sad eyes. Midoriya quirks an eyebrow in confusion. 

“For what?” Kirishima and the medic both chuckle under their breath while Todoroki sighs heavily. 

“My foul ball is what hit you and now you’re here,” Todoroki explains, a pink dusting his cheeks. 

“What’s a foul ball?” Midoriya overlooks every other part of that sentence, focusing solely on the baseball term that he didn’t know. Bakugou snorts. 

“It’s when the ball is hit off the bat into foul territory,” Bakugou explains rolling his eyes. Midoriya looks up and back to his best friend. 

“What’s foul territory?” Bakugou’s nostrils flare in annoyance and Todoroki speaks up before the blonde can freak out. 

“What matters is that I hit the ball that hit you and I’m sorry,” Midoriya looks back and stares at the pitcher for a couple long moments, as Todoroki shrinks slightly under the intense gaze. 

“That’s okay!” Midoriya exclaims. “You’re cute, so it’s alright!” Midoriya smiles so wide his eyes crinkle. 

The room goes deadly silent before Bakugou bursts out laughing. 

“Oh my God, that’s great,” Wiping a fake tear from his eye, Bakugou continues to chuckle freely. “He’s been crushing on you since looking at your profile and would never have the balls to tell you that without being fucked up.” Bakugou cackles loudly and clutches at his stomach. Midoriya starts giggling too. 

“He’s right,” Midoriya admits and finally Todoroki cracks a smile. 

“I-I’m flattered,” Todoroki says. The room is quiet shortly after as Todoroki and Midoriya look at each other, the athlete wearing a shy smile and the injured sporting a goofy grin. 

“Alright,” The EMT breaks the silence and everyone jumps slightly. “Mr. Midoriya, I’m going to send you home with some pain killers and a couple ice packs. Do you have someone to help take care of you?” Todoroki backs away from the bed, standing against the wall across from Midoriya so he could be out of the way. 

“Yeah,” Bakugou speaks up. “He lives with me and Ei.” Kirishima grins at his boyfriend, causing the blonde to flush and glare back. 

“Great! So if he has any more problems, do not hesitate to bring him to the emergency room. Thankfully he didn’t suffer too badly from the hit, and will probably have a nasty bump for a couple days.” At that, Midoriya touches the lump on the side of his head before wincing. 

Bakugou nods before bending over and picking up Midoriya’s backpack. “Ready to go, nerd?” 

Midoriya slowly sits up and nods. Bakugou gestures for the male to slip off the bed as Kirishima, Bakugou, and Midoriya make their way out of the first aid room.

-

They’re reaching the gates to exit the stadium when a distant voice floods the three’s ears. 

“Midoriya!” Todoroki jogs up to the group and stops in front of the freckled male. “C-Can I have your number?” Midoriya’s eyes widen. “Y-Ya know, to make sure you’re okay.” Todoroki stutters, rubbing the back of his neck nervously. 

“Don’t you have Ei’s number to do tha-” Bakugou’s cut off by Kirishima’s hand on his mouth. The blonde grunts and Kirishima gives him a look to shut up. 

“O-Okay,” Midoriya agrees, voice small as his concussion-induced confidence fades. 

The two exchange numbers before Midoriya follows Bakugou and Kirishima out of the stadium, glancing back at the handsome pitcher who stands watching the trio leave, a tiny smile gracing his features.

While Bakugou and Kirishima bicker about what they want for dinner, Midoriya thinks, I can get into baseball. 

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[bilbos]

Missed Calls || Freddie Andersen

requested: yes || no

word count: 3k

warnings: none

author’s note: written for @thepensieve as part of my blog award winners!

“You don’t pick who you fall in love with, and it never happens like it should.”

Today had been a long day. And not because of your students. Currently, you work as a kindergarten teacher and every year, you adore your students. But sometimes the parents push too much about the curriculum that you teach. You don’t make all the decisions about what needs to be taught, yet they never seem to understand that.

One of the parents had sent an angry email about a book you’ve started reading to your class about accepting people that are different from you. Apparently, that was not well appreciated when the student was talking about it at home. You replied as sweetly as you could, but that only resulted in an even angrier email. You’ve decided to leave the email for the day and just come at it with a fresh mind tomorrow.

As you get into your car, you call up one of your friend’s phone numbers. Recently, you got a new phone and it didn’t transfer all of your contacts. You know that she’s free right now, and more than willing to listen to you vent about stupid parents who overstep their boundaries.

It looks like your friend has picked up, so you just go right into the ranting.

“Ugh, Jamie, you know I hate to go right into ranting but I swear to god I’m going to kill this stupid parent,” you groan, as you start driving off. “Like, why can’t they just understand that I’m just teaching their five-year old’s basic decency! All I’m doing is keeping their innocence and love for everyone there, no matter what the world tells them. I just wish that parents got that, you know? And most of the time that’s no problem, but they’re always so angry when they do hate what I’m teaching.”

“Um…I’m very sorry about your day, but I think you have the wrong phone number?” a soft voice says on the other end.

“Oh god, I am so sorry!” you exclaim. “Um…I guess I’ll hang up now.”

You press the button to end the call on your steering wheel and mildly freak out. Thankfully, you hadn’t given away any identifying information on your student, but still. Hopefully whoever picked up your call would just leave it be, otherwise you’ll change your phone number.

After you get home, you make sure that you have the right phone number and call Jamie again. Once your done venting, you tell her about accidently calling the wrong number.

“Only you, y/n,” she replies, laughing. “I mean, at least they were nice about it.”

“Yeah, I guess so. But I didn’t give them much time to talk either,” you say.

“Makes sense, though,” she says. “Anyways, what are your plans for Friday? I got us tickets to the Maple Leafs game from work again.”

“I should be free. I think I can put grading off for a little bit.”

“What do you even grade? They’re in kindergarten.”

“Little essays and everything. And it’s not even really grading, more like making comments and tracking their progress. Seeing who needs a little extra help.”

You can tell Jamie rolls her eyes. “Well, I think you can take a night off. They’re not the best seats, but they’re still seats.”

“Any seats are good seats, Jamie. Both you and I know how expensive tickets can get.”

~ ~ ~

For some reason, the wrong call has stuck with Freddie. Whoever had called him seemed so passionate and that’s stuck with him. He knows that it’ll be weird if he reaches out again, as it definitely wouldn’t come off as wanted. But just sending a “you okay” text should be fine.

He sends the text off, and then throws his phone onto his bed, leaving it there as he walks into the kitchen. There’s a game tonight, so he’s trying to rest up as well as he can. For now, Freddie chooses to focus on that, rather than getting a reply. If anything, he’ll check tomorrow after he’s rested a bit.

But only a couple of hours later, he cracks and pulls up the message thread. She’s actually replied, with a simple, yeah, I’m feeling better now. thanks for checking!

I’m glad. :)

He refrains from asking about plans for the night. That would come off as creepy, and he doesn’t want to make her feel threatened. Besides, he’s followed up with her now, so that should be it. But things are never that simple.

~ ~ ~

Why you replied to this person’s text is beyond you. But something tells you that they really meant no harm, especially with their simple reply. So, you proceed to forget about the conversation and move onto getting ready for the second half of the day.

Friday afternoons are always reserved for story time and coloring. Every week is a long week, so you always make sure to let them have some free creative time. It always helps and most of the time, parents have really positive feedback about it.

The afternoon goes by quickly, and you wait with your students outside as they wait for their parents. As your talking to one of your quieter students, a parent taps your shoulder to pull you aside. When you look over, you can tell that this parent is fairly disgruntled. Sighing, you say good-bye to Emilie, and walk a short distance away with the parent.

“What can I do for you?” you ask, pleasantly.

“I’m the parent that emailed you,” they say bluntly.

“Oh, Louise, it’s nice to meet you. What did you want to discuss?” you inquire, trying your best to remain pleasant.

“Well, I just wanted to follow up and make sure that your story times are going to be less of that,” Louise answers, pointedly.

“Oh, well, I have finished that story, so we won’t be following up with another like it. Today was focused on the Magic Treehouse series,” you reply.

Louise huffs. “Well. I hope we won’t have to have this conversation again.”

“Yes, hopefully so. Have a good afternoon!”

Louise sighs and goes to take Marcus home. You sigh and really hope that Jamie is going to wanted to get drunk after the game tonight because you are going to need it. Thankfully, Louise has been the only thorn in your side this year, at least in regards to parents.

~ ~ ~

The Maple Leafs won and, in a shutout, no less. The air is electric and you know it’s going to be wild tonight. Thankfully, Jamie easily agreed to go to the bars with you and the two of you start trekking to a bar that won’t be as wild as the ones right next to the stadium

Finally, the two of you find a bar and settle in for the next couple of hours. Games like this leave the adrenaline running through your veins. Mixed with your anger from earlier, you can tell it’s going to be hard to sleep tonight.

A few hours and drinks later, you and Jamie uber back to your apartments. As you lay in bed, you decide to call Max, one of your friends who fucked off to Europe recently. You figure it has to be a reasonable time to call over there, so you dial in what you think is his number. It rings a couple of times before there’s an answer on the other end.

“Hello?” someone greets, mumbling.

This doesn’t quite sound like Max, but your drunk as all hell and nobody sounds like they normally would. That’s what you tell yourself anyways.

“God, Max, how are you?” you say. “Wanna know how I am? I’m so fucking pissed right now. There was this parent who told me that I shouldn’t be teaching my kids how to be nice to people. And then today they had the nerve to tell me to my face today that I shouldn’t ever do it again. Like who are they to tell me that? To not tell kids to be mean to each other?”

“I’m…sorry?”

“You’re…not Max are you.”

“No, sorry about that. I’m, uh, the person you accidently called earlier this week.”

“God, you probably hate me right now. Especially because it’s so late. Or earlier. I don’t even know anymore.”

The person on the other end laughs. “It’s okay. You’re home safe, right?”

“Yeah, I think I need to sleep though. Obviously got too drunk after the Maple Leafs game tonight.”

“Maple Leafs game, huh?”

“Jamie, one of my best friends, got tickets for us. So, uh, yeah. Um, I should really go. It was good talking to you. Bye.”

You promptly hang up and groan, tossing your phone to the side.

“I’m so dumb,” you whisper.

~ ~ ~

The next morning, you lay in bed on your phone for a little while, trying to ignore the stupid phone call you made. The fact that you called him twice in one week is a little embarrassing. Hopefully this is the end of it, though. No more drunk dialing for you, obviously.

Unfortunately, that’s when the mysterious number texts you again, checking to see if you’re okay.

Yeah, I’m doing alright. I’ve had worse hangovers than this.

You sure? Sounds like you were a little out of it.

I promise I’m doing okay. I feel worse for drunk calling you last night. Or this morning, I suppose.

Glad you enjoyed the game last night though :)

Uhhh. Yeah, tickets are hard to come by when you’re working on a teacher’s salary.

That sucks.

I’m Freddie, by the way.

Well, if we’re introducing ourselves, I’m y/n.

Nice to meet you

You roll your eyes. I guess this counts as meeting each other. So, you know I’m a teacher. What do you do for a living?

You…wouldn’t believe me

Try me. I work with kindergarteners. I’ve learned to believe anything.

I’m the goalie for the Maple Leafs.

You almost drop your phone. You’re fucking lying. I’m still drunk. That’s it right?

The next thing you know, Freddie has sent you a selfie, smiling softly in the sunlight. What the fuck. How the hell did you managed to accidently dial the goalie for the Maple Leafs twice? This is just your luck.

I…am so embarrassed right now.

No need to be embarrassed. The guys have said worse things and done worse things.

Still, this is just my luck :(

Don’t sound so sad about it, y/n.

You snort. I guess I can try my best. And I would really love to talk more, but I have to do some work today.

Enough work for you to not come to the game tonight?

I don’t have tickets for tonight???

I could get you tickets. One for you and your friend.

Only if I get to meet you afterwards. I gotta make sure that you’re not lying.

Yeah, I can do that. Pick up your tickets at will call, okay?

Can do, Freddie. Thank you!!

With that, you go to tell Jamie what just happened. She, as expected, freaks out and is in as much shock as you are. Obviously, she agrees and clears plans she had for the night. You’re mentally freaking out as you go through your students work and make small comments. It’s mostly spelling assignments that you have this time around, so it isn’t too hard of work.

~ ~ ~

The game passes in somewhat of a blur. You’re too wound up from the thought of meeting Freddie. And you figure it’s best to get the nerves out now before actually meeting him. He seems really laid back and messing with that vibe doesn’t seem right to you.

Jamie senses your nerves and pushes you slightly once the game is over. Freddie said that he would text you where to go once he showered. The two of you decided to go to the bathroom to wait, figuring it would take him a while to get ready. Once he texts you, he says that he’s near your seats.

As the two of you walk back into the seating area, Freddie asks hesitantly, “Y/n?”

“Yeah, that’s me. And this is Jamie,” you answer.

“Nice to meet you,” Jamie says. “And you’re welcome for letting you two meet. Since I’m the reason you even called him in the first place.”

You roll your eyes. “You’re going to hold that over my head forever, aren’t you?”

Jamie just smiles in response. “As much fun as I can see that we’d have tonight, I’m gonna leave you two to hang out. You can give her a ride back, right?”

Freddie nods. “I can do that.”

You hug Jamie before she quickly walks off.

“So, I guess you weren’t lying,” you say.

“Nope, not lying.”

“Good to know. What’s the plan for tonight? Or is there even a plan?”

“I…don’t have a plan. I didn’t think it past this. But I know a good diner not too far from here that shouldn’t be too crowded. If you want to go.”

“Yeah, I can do with some good diner food.”

~ ~ ~

Hanging out with Freddie that night was amazing. He was so easy to talk to and you felt so comfortable with him. It definitely helps that he’s extremely attractive. Now, the two of you are texting all the time. You can’t make it to games as often as either of you would like, as that’s really the only time where you’re guaranteed to get some uninterrupted time with him.

Jamie senses that you’re feeling pretty bummed about it, so she takes out one Friday night. It’s casual and you don’t drink too much, but just enough to get you out of your head.

“I’ve never seen you get this sad about a guy before, y/n,” Jamie comments. “You must really like him.”

“Freddie’s a good guy,” you reply. “And being able to hang out with him is so easy. I just wish that our schedules didn’t conflict so much.”

“Well, I think you guys are going to be just fine. I can feel it in my bones.”

You smile softly. “Thanks, Jamie.”

She hugs you for a moment. “Let’s get going. I think it’s time to call it a night.”

You nod and get into Jamie’s car. She drops you off at your apartment and you fall asleep, dreaming of Freddie.

~ ~ ~

It’s been a couple of days since you’ve been able to talk to Freddie, but you’ve both been really busy. He’s currently on a roadie and your helping with the extra standardized testing that your school is doing. When you get home, you barely have the energy to make yourself dinner, much less try and make interesting conversation.

Wednesday rolls around, and Freddie texts you to ask if you’re going to be busy after school.

I’m helping with the kindergarten afterschool program. So, I’ll be at the school until around 4:30pm, you reply.

Okay, thanks :)

…any reason why you wanted to know?

Just curious

Why are you so fucking weird

It’s because I’m a goalie

You roll your eyes. True. Now, I gotta get to work!!

After that, you don’t hear from Freddie again, but you just write it off as being weird. If he needed something, he would have asked. Freddie has never been afraid of asking for what he wants.

The day passes by in its usual fashion. Students are always excited when you’re helping with the afterschool program because you always bring them treats. They’re happy about getting anything, but you always try to make it special.

As you’re waiting with your last student, Ava, there’s a light knock on your door, then Freddie comes walking in with flowers.

“Is that your boyfriend?” Ava asks, loudly.

Your blushing, and you can tell Freddie is blushing too. Something tells you that he wasn’t expecting any students to still be here.

“I am her boyfriend,” Freddie replies.

He sets down the flowers on a random desk and goes to sit down with Ava in the reading area. She looks at him curiously, then sits down next to him. Your smiling hard, unable to take how cute it is seeing Freddie sat next to such a small child.

“What’s your name?” he asks softly.

“I’m Ava! Miss y/n isn’t my teacher, but she’s my favorite,” Ava says matter-of-factly.

You walk over to them and sit down as well. “Is it because I make you treats?”

Ava smiles. “Yeah, but you also read the best stories.”

“I’m glad to hear that,” you say.

Right then, you hear Ava’s mom come in. You stand up and greet her at the door.

“Hey Miss Le! How are you doing today?” you ask.

“I’m doing well. How was Ava?” she answers.

“She’s doing good. Even got all of her spelling homework done,” you reply.

When you glance over to make sure that Ava has gotten all of her stuff, you see Freddie helping her get her backpack on.

“Bye Mr. Freddie! Bye Miss y/n!” Ava exclaims.

“See you later Ava,” you say, hugging her on her way out.

After Miss Le closes the door, you look over at Freddie, raising an eyebrow.

“You, sir, have some explaining to do.”

“I wanted to do something special for you since we haven’t seen each other in a few days,” Freddie explains. “I got the school address and your room number from Jamie.”

You roll your eyes. “I’m going to kill her. But flowers, though? Seriously?”

“I thought it was a good idea. And, um, I thought it would make asking you on a date better?”

“You’re…asking me on a date.”

“Yeah, I am.”

Smiling, you nod. “Yeah, I think I could go on a date with you. But you don’t get to count me going to one of your games as a date, Freddie.”

He laughs. “Yeah, I think I can figure something out.”

[akitokihojo]

It’s About Time -Part 3

A bit longer than last week’s portion. A bit more angsty too (considering angst hasn’t even been a thing in this fic as of yet).

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

Miroku retracted his arm from Sango’s shoulder, rolling his head back against the cushion of the couch and groaning loudly. It wasn’t often that he was at a loss, being the type that could break the ice like an actual elephant, but this time was different. His best friend was sulking. Actually and legitimately sulking. Locking-himself-in-his-room, mumbling-words, hanging-his-head-in-defeat sulking. He’d approached the situation jokingly at first, which was probably the worst thing he could have done. Hell, he’d never seen Inuyasha look so dejected before, even after breaking up with Kikyo, so it was perfectly understandable that he almost thought he was being pranked. Once he’d realized how serious this was, Miroku tried a more tender approach. He brought home comfort food, offered some distracting video game time, and even forked up the cash for a bottle of expensive whiskey to help Inuyasha relax and start talking. All of which were rejected.

He’d decided that two weeks was long enough, and it was time to take drastic measures. Enter Sango. After another failed attempt at coaxing Inuyasha out of his brooding stupor, he dashed out into the forty-degree weather, hopped into his car and drove straight to Sango’s apartment. It was against the “Bro Code” to spill about a friend’s personal life, but he didn’t know what else to do and thought a woman’s touch was all the guy needed.

By the end of Miroku’s story, Sango’s roommate came through the front door and froze after noticing him. It wasn’t the first time it had happened in the last week or so, but it didn’t make it any less weird. She hardly smiled, and after a moment, looked away awkwardly as she hung her coat and scarf on the hook nailed to the wall. After disappearing into her bedroom, Sango reluctantly admitted that Kagome had seemed down for a while now, too, with no given explanation.

“And you have no idea what’s wrong with Kagome?” Miroku asked, rolling his head to the side to glance at his girlfriend.

“Not a clue. She was totally fine and then all of a sudden, she just… wasn’t. I’ve asked her a thousand times to talk to me, but she keeps saying it’s nothing to worry about.” Sango replied, a concerned frown marring her features.

“Maybe it’s in the water.” Miroku suggested, feeling defeated.

“Not for Inuyasha.”

Miroku looked at her questionably, turning his body towards her once more in anticipation of what she had to say.

“You said he has a soulmate. What if he found her?” Sango inquired.

“Why would that upset him?” He asked, cocking an eyebrow.

“I don’t know. From all the stories you’ve told me about Inuyasha, he seems like the stubborn type-”

Miroku chuckled, nodding enthusiastically. “Oh, he’s definitely stubborn.”

“Therefore, he may be picky about his women. What if he doesn’t like his soulmate? Better yet, what if he doesn’t like the fact that he didn’t get a choice in the matter? I mean, it seems a little farfetched that 100% of the people that have a soulmate wouldn’t have a problem with their selection.” She shrugged, raising her eyebrows. Miroku sat there for a moment, allowing her words to sink in and process.

“Have I ever told you how brilliant you are, you gorgeous woman?” He boasted, squishing her cheeks in between his hands and pulling her in for a kiss. “What the hell would I do without you?”

She giggled, shaking her head and pushing his hands away from her face. “So, I helped?”

“Are you kidding? Everything makes sense now! That idiot is as stubborn as a mule. In fact, he’s so stubborn donkeys take after him. You’re damn straight he doesn’t like anyone calling the shots for him, especially in the love department.”

“Maybe you just need to help him take his mind off of things for now. Eventually, everything will calm down and level out. Even a guy like him can learn to accept change, right?” Sango asked innocently.

“Oh, uh… Give or take six months down the road he may consider the idea of accepting it.”

“…You’re kidding.”

“My dearest Sango, I never joke about Inuyasha’s attitude. He is, in fact, the worst.” Miroku smiled nonchalantly. “But I’ve tried to keep his mind off of things. I end up more rejected than a high school girl whose senpai won’t notice her. Thank god we’re in this together, huh?”

"We are?" Sango hesitated, frowning at her boyfriend who seemed all-too-eager to include her.

“Of course! Kagome could probably use the pick-me-up too! How about a house party? My place is big enough and we’re on the bottom floor. I’ll invite the neighbors, so they don’t complain. They’re young. They’re hip. Everyone can dance their worries away.”

“I can’t imagine Inuyasha being the dancing type.”

“He is when he’s drunk.”

The pungent smell of alcohol riddled the air as too many people bounced about, shouted, and dry-humped around him to the loud music. Inuyasha distinctly remembered telling Miroku he wasn't interested in hosting a party, and yet here he was; shutout of his own bedroom and forced to stand around awkwardly until the alcohol hit his system. He didn't know how his roommate always got his way, but the man was a master at persuasion and coercion.  

He swiveled the red, plastic cup in his hand hoping the motion would make the ice melt faster and cool the warm whiskey so that it was drinkable. He watched as the two ice cubes hit the sides of the container, flowing in a circular motion as a small whirlpool was created. The lower temperature began to seep through the plastic, soothing his irritated hand and helping him to ignore the increasing prickling.

Ever since that day at the coffee shop, Inuyasha had felt like shit and these sensations had increased tenfold. He knew this party was Miroku’s way of trying to help bring him out of it but being forced to hang out in a very crowded room with a lot of drunk, obnoxious people was far from the answer. He just needed to ride the stupid feeling out.

Inuyasha had watched the message he’d written slowly fade from his palm, disappearing completely with no response. He’d stared at his skin for damn near an hour waiting for something to appear. Every day, he’d check his hands for notes or doodles and his flesh remained clean and clear. The only thing that remained to tie him with whomever the fuck this was, was the annoying, unrelenting tingling that spread from his wrists to the tips of his fingers, seemingly growing worse and worse by the minute. Inuyasha wasn’t one for melancholy to begin with. He was the type of guy that swallowed his problems to deal with another day, but this whole ordeal seemed to be eating him away and wearing him thin.

He was exhausted, he was aggravated, and he was anxious as all hell.

He took a large swig of his barely-cold drink, the whiskey burning at his throat as it coated it thoroughly on its way down. Slamming the cup on the small side table next to the couch, he made his way to the open front door, heading towards the fresh air and calmer atmosphere.

"Inuyasha!" Miroku shouted, waving over the many heads inside. A girl several inches smaller than him tailed behind, clutching desperately to his hand so as not to get separated. Her long, brown hair was held loosely in a high, messy ponytail that swayed side-to-side as she walked, and her dress was almost too revealing for this weather. "It's about time I finally get the opportunity to introduce you two! This is Sango!"

“It’s nice to finally meet you!” Sango smiled, extending her free hand to him. Inuyasha took it in his grip, making sure not to hurt her nimble fingers with his large hands. To his surprise, her shake was firm and powerful, the squeeze hurting his knuckles. When he’d first learned they were dating almost two months ago, he felt compelled to warn the girl about Miroku and his… tendencies. Maybe Miroku was the one he should actually be worried about.

“You probably don’t remember, but we’ve met before.” Inuyasha smirked, eagerly taking his palm back and rubbing it out.

“I don’t and I’d rather not!” She laughed awkwardly, no doubt remembering the hangover she suffered from that drunken night a few weeks ago. “I believe you know my roommate, too? Kagome? She’s here somewhere!”

Inuyasha’s fists clenched, the familiar surge of points and needles prodding his hands with a burning fury. His head twisted around the room, looking for her long black hair and bright brown eyes but coming up with faces he didn’t know and an abundance of putrid scents that burned his nose. Realizing Miroku was staring at him, he stopped and attempted to come off as casual as possible.

“She is? Well I… um… hope she’s having fun.” He slowly nodded, turning and exiting through the door.

The November air was cold as shit and he wished he’d grabbed a jacket before stepping outside, his demon blood not enough to keep him warm at this time of year. A chill crept through his long sleeve shirt and as his senses began to quiet, he could smell rain approaching in the air. It was cold enough at night where the water on the roads would freeze until the sun thawed it mid-morning, but not cold enough for snow just yet.

He walked outside the apartment building, the music still loud enough to reach his sensitive ears as he shoved his tingling hands into his front pockets for warmth. He was almost tempted to let his fingers freeze and fall off, the cold numbing them and aiding in some form of relief from the undying torture.

“Oh. Hey.” A sweet voice greeted as he turned the corner, nearly bumping into her small body that leaned against the wall. Kagome stood there, her chocolate eyes gazing at him unsuspectingly. Her hands were tucked inside the pocket of her dark blue pullover hoody, the logo for their college printed on the front. Her dark curls flowed over her shoulders and around the bunched-up hood at the back of her neck, her messy bangs framing her face too fucking perfectly. She smiled shyly, causing a piercing jab to his heart as he forced himself to take a step backwards.

“Hey.”

Kagome felt a fluttering rush develop in her chest, expanding throughout her entire torso. She’d come outside for a quick minute to compose herself. The moment she’d seen Inuyasha standing along the wall of his living room talking to absolutely no one and drinking who knows what, she’d felt her breath catch in her lungs and couldn’t get it to come out. It was ridiculous, even for her, so she decided to come outside and start over.

The dim lights from the building provided just enough exposure for her to see the slight tint of pink on his cheeks, which she suspected to be from the cold, and his amber eyes staring back at her with both question and concern.

“I-it was… crowded.” Kagome admitted, tearing her eyes away and looking at the ground.

“Yeah, I get it. Me too.”

“What?”

“I-uh… I thought it was crowded too. That’s why I’m out here.” His voice was low and rough, catching all of her attention. Kagome’s eyes met his again, his gaze burning through her as her hands clutched one another through the large pocket in her sweater, trying to calm the wild nerve endings. She desperately wanted to take a step closer to him, as if he were a magnet drawing her in, but pinched the back of her left wrist with her nails to keep grounded where she was.

What was happening to her? These feelings were becoming too intense to think rationally. She shouldn’t have come to the party. She shouldn’t have wanted to see him again. But, geez, did she want to see him again. She’d kept her hands clean for weeks, kept notes in her cell phone and notebooks, and used hand sanitizer for added effect as a form of detoxing to keep her mind off of things, but it only made it all worse. She was sad, and Sango’s concern proved that it was noticeable. How could she tell her best friend what was going on if she didn’t even know herself? Kagome refused to admit the one thing that kept prodding at her mind. She refused to even consider that Inuyasha was the man on the other side of this. He didn’t believe. He had no idea what it was like to feel as crazy as she did now, and she would only be screwing herself over if she gave in and hoped it was him.

Inuyasha flinched, rubbing out the sudden sting that came to the back of his left wrist. He and Kagome had stood there in silence for a long moment. A small part of him felt calm and content, while a larger part of him trembled with agitation.

Fuck! He wanted to know. He deserved to know. If it wasn’t Kagome, all she had to do was say so and he’d move on.

All he had to do was ask and he’d have his answer.

A part of him felt like he already had, though. He’d sent a message, and he knew it was received. He’d never been so sure about something in his life. Why would shit come through to him but not the other way around? It just didn’t make sense. If he understood anything about this soulmate thing, it was that what happened to one happened to the other.

“Listen, Ka-“ The loud ring and heavy vibration coming from his pocket yanked away his focus. He pulled out the device, ready to silence the thing and turn it off completely when he noticed the name in big, bold letters. He didn’t want to answer. Jesus, why did he slide the bar at the bottom of the screen to accept? He was literally seconds away from getting the yes or no he needed, so why would he even consider answering this call? It was past ten, and nothing good ever came from calls from your ex-girlfriend this late at night.

“What?” Inuyasha’s voice came out harsher than intended. He held the butt of his phone close to his face, neglecting to put the call on speaker phone since Kagome was only a few feet from him, his ears sensitive enough to pick up the hysterical sobbing coming from the other end. He waited a moment, the cries never slowing enough to pick up the words she tried to mutter in between. “Hey, hey, hey. Calm down. I need you to tell me happened. Slowly.” He dropped his voice considerably, his tone coming off as soothing as possible while direct enough to be followed.

“… He hit me, Inuyasha.”

He turned down the volume on his phone, knowing Kagome couldn’t hear what was being said but not taking the chances. Her concerned stare burning into him, her teeth chewing on her bottom lip as the tension increased around him from every angle.

“Where are you?” Inuyasha asked, his amber eyes never leaving Kagome’s brown orbs. He knew he was going to regret this, but he couldn’t leave Kikyo alone when she was this scared or hurt. His stomach twisted and turned painfully, feeling a lump form in his throat.

He was pissed. He didn’t need the details of Kikyo’s situation to feel the anger gnawing at his entire being. He didn’t care that she was his ex and he didn’t care what had happened in their past. She was a sobbing mess, hiccupping between words and begging for him to come get her.

He got the information he needed and hung up the phone, sliding it back into the depths of his front pocket. Unconsciously, he’d taken a step closer to Kagome, her eyebrows raised, and her deep brown eyes drifting back and forth from his own to his lips. He slowly lifted a hand to cup her cheek, his palms stinging all the way, the sensation too much to handle as the padding of his thumb just barely grazed her soft skin so he withdrew it altogether. Fuck, he wanted to make that worried expression disappear. He wanted to soothe her features and tell her everything was alright, but the situation was such a clusterfuck that he couldn’t find it in him to say anything.

“I have to go.” He said hoarsely. “I’ll see you soon, okay?”

Inuyasha began backing away from Kagome, finding each step harder and harder to take. He was so damn close to an answer. He was so damn close to her. At this point, it seemed all logic was out the door. He may not know shit about her now, but he was more than willing to take all the time in the world to find out everything he could. God, he wanted her to say yes when he could finally ask her the dreaded question. He wanted it to be her. He wanted it to be Kagome.

She gave him a soft nod, and he was finally able to tear away and head in the direction of the coffee house.

 Could half demons tell if they were being followed? Probably. But Kagome knew Inuyasha’s mind was too preoccupied to pick up on her. Every part of her knew this was wrong, but the horrible feeling that had drilled into her chest cavity wouldn’t ease up until she gave in and snuck off after him. She decided that she could beat herself up later about it. For now, she had to concentrate on staying a safe distance behind while simultaneously staying close enough not to lose him.

The icy drizzle fell around her, shocking the tenderly-cold skin of her nose and cheeks. The smart thing to do would have been to put her hood up but she was worried about looking like a shady figure hanging out in the background, so she decided against it. A little rain never hurt anyone.

Inuyasha’s pace quickened as he approached the lit-up coffee house, half adorned with autumn décor and the other half in semi-put-up Christmas lights. He forcefully threw open the door and ran towards the back where she couldn’t see him anymore, a curving wall from the inside blocking her view. Even through the cold, her hands felt clammy. She could hear the scared voice through Inuyasha’s phone. The voice of a female begging him to come get her. Kagome had no right to be jealous. She was jumping to conclusions, another bad habit of hers, and as per usual, it only created messier situations.

The drizzle turned to rain, her damp hair beginning to stick to the sides of her face and neck. She should just turn around and head home. She should go home, get dry, and put on some stupid romcom to distract herself. So why was she approaching the windows of the coffee house? Why was she searching the inside of the dimly-lit, twenty-four-hour building for the familiar face with the unfamiliar woman? Why did it hurt so bad to see Inuyasha cradling a girl's jaw, their bodies so close to one another?

 “Who did this?” Inuyasha demanded. He wanted to punch the wall next to them and create a god-awful scene. He wanted whoever the hell it was that had the balls to strike a woman to see the damage he, himself, could do so that he would shrivel down in fear at the beating that was coming for him.

“His name doesn’t matter, Inuyasha.” Kikyo responded flatly, her dark eyes avoiding his. His clawed hands held her face, his thumb caressing her pale cheeks, avoiding the darkening bruise around her eye.

“Like hell, it doesn’t!” He snapped. “If you call me to come get you because some asshole you’re dating hit you, you better be prepared to tell me his name!”

“I didn’t call you because I wanted you to fight him! I called you because I wanted you to take me home!” She pushed his hands away, carefully wiping at her tear-stained cheeks. “But you didn’t even bring your car and it’s pouring outside now!”

“Oh, save it! I was drinking when you called, so I wasn’t going to drive around town like that. And don’t act like it’s the rain you’re worried about. I’ll get you home safely, so shut up.” He rolled his eyes, gently grabbing Kikyo’s chin between his forefinger and thumb, and twisting her face slightly to get a better look at the developing bruise. “Who was it, Kikyo?”

“Some guy I went on a few dates with.”

“Who was it, Kikyo?” Inuyasha demanded again, sick of her attitude already.

“Naraku. His name is Naraku. We got into an argument and the rest is history.” Kikyo lifted her chin out of his hold, turning away so the mark of violence was out of his line of sight.

Inuyasha clenched and unclenched his fists, the tingling making it hard to focus on one thing over the other. He sat back in the corner booth they were tucked away in, seething in anger and wanting to beat the ever-loving shit out of this guy. Hell, he would run off and do it right now if he knew what the asshole looked like and didn’t have Kikyo to worry about. It killed him that a woman he’d known to stand tall with pride seemed so small and terrified, so it made it a lot easier that she didn’t want to be looked at. As good as he was at blowing things out of proportion and going off the deep end, he understood that it was more important to get her home as soon as possible.

He made sure to steady himself, ready to take her arm and guide her back to her place, when the small silhouette in the corner of the furthest window caught his eye.

Kagome gasped, forgetting that the main objective, besides snooping, was to avoid being seen. His eyes pierced through her, and her feet felt frozen in place. Her heart beat erratically as her first instinct was to panic. To run. To get the hell out of there and avoid him for the rest of her life, because there was no way she could face him or live this down.

She didn’t expect it to hurt so bad to see him caring for another woman. She didn’t expect to feel so irrationally betrayed to see him stroking her cheek when she was well aware that this situation and their relationship was none of her business. None of this made sense to Kagome. For the umpteenth time, she asked herself what was happening to her. Her lungs contracted, the air traveling through her pipes painfully as the cold rain wracked her body into tremors.

Inuyasha stared out the window, his eyes adjusting to the difference in contrast as her features became noticeable. The rain caused her bangs to wave and stick to her forehead, the layers of black hair that once created a voluminous look clinging to her cheeks. Her mouth hung slightly open, drops of water running along her face and stopping at the texture of her pink lips. The dark blue sweater she wore looked black from the added moisture, her arms shivering at her side and her fingers shaking.

He jolted to his feet, that action startling both the girl outside and the girl beside him. Kagome turned to walk away, the steps quickly developing into a sprint.

But he was faster.

“Inuyasha, what are-“

“I’ll be right back. Stay here.” He ordered, not giving Kikyo a second look before darting out the door and following Kagome’s path.

The rain made it impossible to catch her scent, but he let his intuition guide him. His legs darted quickly, the downpour stinging his face as he turned a corner he’d taken on the way from his apartment. There she was, just a few paces in front of him, her legs running as fast as they could. His burning hands stretched out in front of him, his fingers latching to the arm of her baggy, soaked hoody.

“Kagome, stop! Stop!” He shouted, pulling back so that she’d be forced to stop running. Her chest heaved up and down heavily as he turned her to face him, her head hung, avoiding his gaze. “What the hell are you doing?”

She bit her lip, her breathing still quick, her body shivering beneath his touch. Inuyasha didn’t let go of her sweater. He was sure if he did, she’d take off again. The street lamps hardly provided enough light to see all the features he’d grown to favor on her face as she stared to the ground at his feet.

“Kagome?” He tried again, holding back the growl that crept up in his chest. No, now wasn’t the right time. She looked sad. Hurt even.

“I’m sorry,” She started, her voice a whisper compared to the sound of heavy water smacking cement. “I shouldn’t have followed you. I was just worried.”

“Then why did you run?”

“I didn’t know what else to do.”

His grip on her clothes went slack, dropping his prickling hand to his side. Finally, she looked up at him, peeking through the thick bangs that hung low and hid her lashes.

“Who is she?” Kagome’s voice shook, and it ripped a hole in Inuyasha’s heart. Fuck it all! What the hell was she doing to him? He should have been pissed that she was spying, but he was more concerned that she was wet and freezing, wandering through the streets alone as the night only got later. He shouldn’t have chased after her, but he couldn’t imagine letting her run off when she looked so wounded through those dirty windows.

“Her name’s Kikyo.” Inuyasha admitted, his shoulders sagging as he resisting the urge to step closer and close at least an inch of the gap between them. “She’s my ex.”

Kagome nodded slowly, the statement causing a painful knot to form in her throat. This is what snooping does; if you go looking for trouble, you’ll always find it.

“Why are you upset?” Inuyasha asked, reaching for her hand. She felt the shock. Felt the rush course through her body and she jerked back, feeling more scared than she knew she should have been.

“I’m not.” She lied, trying to seem as natural as possible.

“Why are you upset?” He asked with more fire, stepping toward her and snatching at the sleeve of her hoody to prevent her from leaving like she so desperately wanted to.

“I said, I’m no-“

“Tell me, Kagome!”

“I don’t know, Inuyasha!” She yelled, feeling her resolve crumbling around her. “I don’t know why I’m upset, okay!? I know I shouldn’t be! There’s a lot of things happening right now that shouldn’t be, but I can’t help it!”

His lips curled into a frown, his brows drawing together as he pulled her closer to him.

“Are you her?” Inuyasha asked, his eyes boring into her own.

“Wha-“

“Are you my fucking soulmate!?” He barked, pulling her another step closer. She could feel his hand traveling down her arm, her palm igniting in a heated blaze she’d never felt before. She attempted to jerk backwards again but got nowhere, his skin nearing hers.

“No!” Kagome tore her arm from his hold, her breathing appearing shaky and unstable. The raindrops curved around her brow bone, over her nose, and down her jaw, the path of them numbing her to further cold. She clutched her burning hand to her chest, wanting so badly to feel his wet skin with the pads of her fingertips, but finding the fear of it all too overwhelming. She was afraid it wasn’t him. She was afraid this whole thing was wrong, and she was following all the wrong signs. She couldn’t be rejected. Not here. Not like this. Not while he was looking at her, able to see her break and crumble from the weight of the disappointment. “I’m not your soulmate, Inuyasha! I don’t have one!”

“Bullshit!” He argued, seeing right through her. “Prove it!”

“Back off!”

“Give me your hand, Kagome!” He looked desperate and just as afraid as she was. She could tell he was trying to disguise it with anger, but his amber eyes said everything she needed to know. He, of all people, had a soulmate somewhere nearby. It was becoming painful for him, and he needed to know who she was. Inuyasha’s ache had become just as insatiable as her own.

It didn’t matter. The fear of being wrong overpowered her trembling nerves and made it impossible to put her hand in his.

“I can’t.” Kagome whispered, staring at his open palm, hot tears stinging at her eyes. “I’m sorry.”

His fingers curled shut, the sharp tips of his claws biting into his cold flesh, feeling rejected once again. Why couldn’t anyone answer his damn question? He wanted to break something, curse and shout, anything to release some of the frustration that he’d locked in for weeks now. What the hell happened to happy endings? Why was this so damn hard?

“I should go. I interrupted something that looked important back there. You can go back to her, Inuyasha.” The hurt in her voice was so evident, it shook him to the core. Everything was so fucked up.

“No, look, it’s not what you think. She got into a fight with her new boyfriend and he hit her. She needed help, Kagome.”

“Is she okay?” Kagome asked immediately, mentally kicking herself for the slip. It was none of her business and she should have never butted in.

“She’s fine. Shaken up, but fine.”

“Is there anything I can do?” The hook in her voice was genuine, and Inuyasha wondered how it was possible for someone to instantaneously push their problems aside for a person they didn’t know. His shoulders sunk, unconsciously reaching his right hand forward and gently pushing a sodden strand of hair off of her pale cheeks and behind her ear. Kagome’s heart was so good, and he understood now that she was going to be the death of him.

“No,” He shook his head, relishing in the heat that radiated from their touch. “I’m just going to make sure she gets home safely. That’s all she needs right now.”

Kagome’s eyes fell back down to the floor, blinking quickly to block the dripping water from blurring her vision. His touch was so wonderful yet so agonizing at the same time. She didn’t know this would be so difficult. Of all the tales she’d heard of finding your person, she’d never once heard one so painful. It was always a happy start to a happy end. Nothing was scary or conflicting or the least bit trivial about it. Your hand sent you some sort of signal and the rest was history. A couple had once come to her family’s shrine and described the story of how they’d gotten that infamous tingle and literally walked around for however long it took with their palms held out like a flashlight, following the urges and sensations until they collided with their person and felt a wash of relief they’d never experienced before.

So why wasn’t that happening for her now? Why did she feel so much regret saying no when she had the opportunity in front of her to possibly end all of this torment for the both of them? Inuyasha was clearly going through it too, and she was willing to do damn near anything to ease the lines on his face and take some of that pain away. But she didn’t.

Kagome kept telling herself it wasn’t right. She wasn’t right for him. They weren’t meant for one another and they were only making things worse in the end.

“I should…” Kagome’s voice broke, betraying her as she tried to hold herself together for just a moment longer.

“No, K-“

“I really need to go, Inuyasha.” She pushed his hand away from her, careful to pull the sleeves of her drenched sweater over her fingers to avoid any further contact with him. “I have to go.”

She backed away slowly, trying to bite back the quivering of her bottom lip.

“I’m so sorry.”

[freerebelmentality]

AN: “ I have a Condibear request 🤗🤗🤗🤗 it’s game day, he’s in net and reader is at home watching the game nervously. So to distract herself from stressing out the game, she decides to bake a cake. The more she mixes, pours, pan and oven. The Sens are leading and it’s a Sens win. She makes the cake extra special by adding food colouring to the icing she made and when he comes home she surprises him with the cake that says it’s a win. From there it’s been tradition to bake while he starts. Pls&thx!! “ requested by @jacobmarkstrom25 There you go and I hope you like it. Finally getting things done, well slowly anyway. But its done. Enjoy this while I work on the something else. Have a good read everyone

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Word Count: 1,624

Its game day, the day you always look forward to because its a literal game of Russian roulette if your boyfriend will get the start in net. Being the girlfriend of a goalie is nerve racking but its always such a joy to see him be the starter and even more joy when he gets the win.

You have been dating Mike Condon since he has been traded from the Pittsburgh Penguins. You bumped into him every where the both of you went and he finally said something.

After countless of dates is when you couldnt stay away from him anymore and took a leap of faith.

Since then everything has been great and even happier when he got a contract extension, knowing the both of you will be in Ottawa for a while.

“You starting tonight? Or is Andy starting?” you ask looking to your boyfriend.

Mike stops in his tracks before walking out the door to go to the arena and get the start for the night.

“Yeah I am. Have you seen my keys?” he asks going through his pockets and realizing he doesnt have them

“Check the bowl” you say while smiling to him

“Thanks” while sighing and gives you a small smile

“Are you sure you dont want to come to the game? Its not to late” he asks looking to you one last time before walking out the door

“Yes, I am sure. Im bad luck when Im at the game, so I will play it safe and watch the game from home” you reply while helping him with his jacket

“You’re right. I’d rather have you stay home” he replies while wrapping his arms around your waist and bringing you closer.

“Funny. Maybe by the time you come home the locks will be changed” you sarcastically reply

He chuckles while giving you a kiss for good luck and another because he loves you dearly. He leans his forehead against yours and opens his eyes. He looks to you adoringly.

“Now I am looking forward to more of that after the game when you get back” you say as he walks out the door

“Every time I leave the house” he says as he closes the door

You laugh as he walks out and its nothing but echoes. You look around the apartment the both of you share and get to the paper work you didnt do at work.

You wanted to finish before the game started. You switched to the station the game is being televised so that way you wont forget to change the channel as you work.

By the time Mike gets to the arena is when he meets up with his other teammates.

“Y/n coming to the game?” Andy asks walking along side with Mike

Craig Anderson has become a dear friend to Mike and even though they share the net, it feels as though they battle for starter. Then again which goalie doesnt feel that way for their team.

“No, not this time” he replies as he takes a sip from his coffee

“Really? Im so used of her coming to the games” he asks while passing a few security guards and stopping for small talk

“Normally but she says she is bad luck when she comes out for the games” he says with a chuckle.

“So thats her bad vibes. Think we will play better tonight then” he jokingly replies and enters the locker room

They both share a laugh while the others ask what they have been laughing about.

“Alright I am almost done. Finally” you mutter to yourself as you look over your paper work

You get up from the chair and make yourself a cup of coffee from the keurig machine.

Once the game started, you sat in the living room watching nervously as Mike took the net and its puck drop. On the first play the opposing team tries for a scoring opportunity but Mike saves it and passes the puck to Dzingle.

Once the puck is poke checked away from him and another shot to the net is when Mike saves it but has lost the puck. There is a scrum in front of his net and he is all over the place following the puck and blocking it. Finally there is a slap shot to the net and Mike gloves it. The whistle blows and its time for the face off once more.

“Oh my god that was just too close” you mutter to yourself as you continue on watching the game

Finally the Sens score a goal on a break away and the crowd at the Canadian Tire Centre goes nuts.

“Nah I’ll just stay home. I dont want to spoil anything” you say to yourself as you change your mind about going to the game

You didnt realize how superstitious you were until you realized Mike has rubbed off on you. You chuckle to yourself as you continue watching the game. Nervously watching while hoping the other team wont score or get a go a head goal.

The first and second period passed like as if you were watching the game for five minutes. Which always feels like that. You pace around the apartment and look through the cupboards of the kitchen and see that there is cake mix. Finally you decide to bake a cake.

As you take out the mix, the pan, the mixer, the eggs, oil and water. All the things you would need to mix it all. While mixing all the ingredients together, you hear the Sens have scored again and taking the lead in the third period.

“Just a few more minutes in the third period” you mutter to yourself as you look to the TV

“Get my baby a shutout” you yell at the TV as the minutes go down to the last minutes of the third period.

Once its all well mixed is when you pour all of its contents into the pan. Again the Sens score again making the game two nothing.

You place the cake in the oven and set the timer. You look to the ingredients you placed on the counter to make the icing. The idea came to mind where you will make the icing black, red and gold. You hoped you would have the colours.

You looked through your baking cupboard, which Mike made fun of you for because of your organization to the kitchen. But it was necessary to organize the kitchen because you would know where everything is.

“Game it out?” Ryan asks looking to Mike

“Sure, I dont think y/n wont mind” he replies as he begins to get ready.

“Shes always cool with everything” Ryan says while getting ready as well

“What is y/n always cool with?” Mark asks as he looks over his shoulder to his teammates

“I asked if we can game and y/n is always cool with gaming out” Ryan replies as he looks to him

“Can I come?” he asks looking between Ryan and Mike

“Sure” Mike replies as they finish everything else for the night.

Once the cake is all cool down is when you get to work with icing the cake. Used the colours for the lettering and the number of Mike’s jersey.

You heard Mike unlocking the door and in time as you finished the cake.

“Y/n I hope its ok if Ryan and Mark are here. We are going to game out for a bit” he says as he enters the apartment.

You turn around with cake in hand

“Its fine” you smile as you look to him

“Look, its a win” you say as you smile

You smile as you see the other two walk into the apartment

“Whats this?” Mike asks looking to you.

“You made this?” Ryan asks looking to the cake

“Yeah I did while watching the game. I got nervous” you reply while setting the cake down

“Hockey then cake” Mark says with a big smile spread across his face

“Shall I cut through the cake now?” You ask looking between the three of them

“Yes” the three of them say in unison

“Oh and uh. I hope you dont mind but we are gonna game out for a bit” Mike says while helping you get the dishes to serve them out

“Go right on a head. Im gonna clean up” you tell him while serving the cake

“Dont, I can do that” Mike says while handing out the cake

“Oh thanks” you reply giving him a kiss to the cheek

While you, Ryan and Mark eat cake while Mike begins to clean the kitchen. He throws the pots and bowls into the dish washer and starts it.

“That wasnt so bad” Mike says as he sits down and finally eats his cake

“This is really good” Ryan says while getting up to rinse out his plate and fork

“Even the icing is really good, its not as sweet but still really good” Mark says while doing the same

He places his plate and fork on the rack to dry.

“Well I am going to get ready for bed and read a little” you tell them as you do the same

“I’ll be up in a little bit” Mike says while giving you a kiss to the lips

“Alright, good night guys” you tell them while going to the room

You were really happy how things turned out and how Mike brought some of the guys back so that they can enjoy a piece of cake.

Mike loved how you went above and beyond with the win and everything else. He is happy how lucky he is to have someone like you in his life.

[andrewuttaro]

New Look Sabres: GM 6 - VGK - Vagas Nights

Whenever Rob Ray said Vegas it sounded like he switched out the first e for an a. “Vagas” is what sounded like. The weird thing is that Ray isn’t the only broadcaster I’ve heard do it. I thought it was a Canadian accent thing at first but RJ isn’t doing it. Hmm. Well I predict unlike the Golden Knights I haven’t heard that last of it. Vegas is all about predictions. You go into the casino predicting you’ll win money; otherwise you wouldn’t go in. Bovada, an internet gambling site, releases Stanley Cup Champions odds periodically. We all crowd around and read them treating them like everything else in Vegas: a prediction (They’re not predictions, they’re betting lines to get your money). All us hockey reporters, bloggers and fans make our predictions for the NHL season before it starts. I predicted Rasmus Dahlin would score a goal in the first three games. I was wrong: he didn’t score a goal until the fifth game.  Vegas was one team no one really had a solid prediction for this season. Their inaugural season last year broke all expectations and smashed records not even just in hockey but in American sports. They were in their first season. They were supposed to be trash and they made the Stanley Cup Final. Who knows what they could be this year? Then they had a trash start and the Buffalo Sabres beat them 4-2 last week. Unpredictable: that’s not how last night went. What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas? Okay, no more puns… this paragraph. Buffalo met the hungry Vegas that made the Cup Final last season and lost 4-1.

The First Period began with the blue and gold pushing pretty well. The forecheck was firing. They defended in the neutral zone. It looked like the transition was really rolling, once the puck got into the O-Zone the boys lined up to make a play. However as the period dragged on the Golden Knights began to hear the sound of their building and push back. Vegas was not ready to go flush in this season series; flush is when you lose, right? Someone who knows gambling tell me. Sam Reinhart and Rasmus Dahlin both let up a bit too much as Shea Theodore streaked into the zone and tucked one in five-hole on Carter Hutton. The coaching staff saved this one though and the off sides challenge was successful for once in our adult lives. The score was back to snake eyes. Giggles. The push from the home team didn’t let up and more and more the Sabres were pushed from the neutral zone to the defensive zone. Marco Scandella got penalized for a wonky holding call and Jonathan Marchessault scored on the ensuing powerplay. Buffalo got worked in the last minute of play letting shots galore and survived the opening 20 with only one goal against. I had high hopes the second would be different.

Unfortunately the only goal added in the middle frame was a shorthanded Vegas goal by Cody Eakin. Short-Handed goal…*shutters at flashbacks to the first ten games last season*… ugh. This goal made me consider how motivated I was to stay up late. This is New Look Sabres and I am far too obsessed with this team so no, I went through this whole period and the next one. Buffalo built up some fight this period even getting some decent shots. Jeff Skinner stood up for Casey Mittelstadt in a weird half fight that came after a halfway decent shot. Let’s just say when I had to break up a literal cat fight on the floor in front of my couch it felt like a reprieve from this game. Then again, Kyle Okposo went for a speed skate around the Knights zone at one point and fed Dahlin for a shot that just woke me up enough to carry me through the rest of this period. The third however was a merciless cup of zanex comparatively. Buffalo worsened their already shattered powerplay going 0-3. This makes the Sabres powerplay 4-18 so far this season. Right after I had formulated all the scenarios where the Sabres get a goal and pitch a comeback, it was only a two goal lead after all; William Karlsson tucked a quick draw shot off the faceoff behind Hutton. The rest of the period dragged on hard and Housley pulled Hutton with four and half minutes left in regulation but no; I’m not going into the Housley hate well today. 4-1 it ended, and let it be known I stayed up to the very end: through the late Sabres goal, the failed goaltender interference review and even the Vegas empty netter until 12:46 AM eastern time. I have a job. This hurt… but hey, at least Fleury didn’t get the shutout.

There was one moment in the first when Carter Hutton played the puck from behind the net to a defender in the riskiest way possible. Hutton wasn’t the biggest problem at all in this game and a few bad moves could be the theme of this game. I don’t know a position on this team that played consistently. At that point in the game it was indicative to this forward group that you can’t let all these shots or you’ll pay for it. Not only can Hutton not bail you out of all these situations, it’s becoming a trend to make him save 30-40 shots through 60 minutes. Hutton is not going to be able to keep saving that many shots; someone other than the Rasmusi (well Risto when he feels like it) and McCabe need to play defense. Rasmus Dahlin was beautiful except for that blown coverage on the first goal but Marco Scandella convinced me in this game that his pairing with Ristolainen minus well be called the pairing of ill-used defensemen. There will come a day Dahlin is moved up to the top pairing but it’s probably not soon and it’s probably not wise quite yet anyway. I know you’ve been ill used on the top pairing for years, Risto, but you guys got shore that up for now. It’s great to see Zach Bogosian back in a game for the first time since last winter but I didn’t notice him. Anyone trying to trade Tage Thompson needs to chill out. Matt Tennyson getting sent down wasn’t good enough for you? Everyone needs their pound of flesh, right? 12 different players with blocked shots not only means your forcing forwards into that position but that you’re playing a weak defensive strategy that depends on putting your body on the line! That shit ain’t going to last boys! And by shit I mean the limbs you’re sacrificing to the hockey gods with this defensive style.

This loss was not the loss I was hoping for on this road trip. The California triad ahead will not be a sweep and this would’ve been an awesome win to have. I digress; I suppose we’re still learning .500 is the beginning of good not a life jacket you need to stay near. Sabres fans including me have been more apoplectic about every little mistake through these first six games than any time in recent memory. It’s a good sign. We don’t have any recent frame of reference for a halfway decent team so this is rough to deal with mentally; especially with how hot and cold Buffalo has been so far. These three losses so far have not been easy ones either: each tanking the goal differential and driving the most faithful among us mad. We can allot blame, yes, some is due to Phil Housley, but perhaps the sparks of light we’re seeing are more important than the glaring mistakes that seem to drag down the losses and disappear in the wins. A wise coach once said practice your strengths because what makes you special is why you’re in the big dance. We should expect them to fix the errors like the middling d-zone coverage or the awful powerplay but unlike past seasons this team is more than their shortcomings. I said they won’t sweep California but would anyone be surprised if they win two of those games? If they’re still hot and cold in December it will be a problem but consistency will come. I have more faith in this team than any other in the Eichel Era and I have already forgotten what happened in Vagas: from here on out there Vagas.

I’ve gone a little long today so let’s put a bow on Vagas. I am beginning to see the response to these columns. I see a follow on twitter here, a follow on tumblr there, a reply that seems connected to a blog reference there. It’s cool just to know people other than my brother and dad are reading this. I hope it’s not like Dahlin on the top powerplay unit last night: short-lived. Share it around. When you do it, don’t tell them I am some insightful analyst. I can assure you I am no Hockey mind. However, I used the word apoplectic in this piece so I can’t be that stupid either, eh? Expect the games that start after 9 out on the West Coast to not get a New Look Sabres post until the following day. I love the Sabres but I like sleep quite a bit too. Let’s hope the Sabres give us things worth staying up for!

Thanks for reading.

P.S. The Chicago Blackhawks temporary logo on twitter is D1K right now. Look at it; it may give you a laugh at this tough time. Tell me what you think it looks like.

[orangecuties]

The Real Prize - Martin Jones

Warnings: Rated R, it’s spicy

Word Count: 1761

Requested by: I wanted to write an imagine for my friend, @puckfucker, as a surprise and she told me I should post it so here we are! 

A/N: Hi there. This is my first time writing an imagine so go easy on me lol. I’m down to write more of these if any of you like it, just message me and give me a player and possibly a scenario or something and I’ll do my best! (I also have another one that is the same thing but it’s formatted for a center instead. X )

The Sharks had just won the Stanley Cup in a game seven match in San Jose against the Pittsburgh Penguins and you couldn’t be prouder for the team, especially for your boyfriend who happened to be the starting goalie who just forced a shutout on the Pens for the last game. You knew the guys would be celebrating in the locker room after the game so you let them have their fun for a little while as you talked to the other wags but eventually you made your way down to the locker room to congratulate Jones in person.

As you walked down the hallway you could hear the screams and shouts still coming from the room as the guys continued to celebrate their victory. As soon as you walked in you could feel Martin’s eyes on you. You told a few of the guys hi and congratulations as walked in but you didn’t talk long as you could feel yourself being pulled over to Martin.

As soon as you were within arms-length of him he grabbed you and wrapped his arms around you, plastering your body against his. His lips met yours in a deep kiss as his tongue licked into your mouth. You wrapped your arms around his neck sighed into his arms. It’s not that you weren’t used to some PDA especially after a big win but this was intense. He had one hand splayed across your ass, gripping it and keeping you held against him, while the others was buried in your hair grabbing it, keeping your head tilted up towards his. As soon as he let you up from the kiss for air you heard a few whistles around the room combined with the continued merriment of the team, but you were focused only on Martin’s eyes raking across your body as he continued to hold you close. You shivered under his gaze and licked your lips and watched his eyes flicker down to watch the action. He suddenly dragged you across the room to a supply closet and shut the door behind him.

He shoved you against the door, making your head bang against it but you didn’t even notice as pain was nothing compared to his hot mouth sucking and biting across your neck as he began to grind into you with now both of his hands clutching your ass hard enough to straddle the line of it being painful. You knew there would be red marks left there and you groaned out at the thought of it while tugging the hair at the back of his neck. You felt him smile against your neck as a response. He slowly made his way up to your mouth and began kissing you again, licking your lips and biting at them, teasing you. His hands began working the button on your pants and sliding them down your legs, as soon as they were pooled around your feet he moved away from you.

“Off” he commanded.

It was the only word he had spoken to you the whole night. You threw them off along with your shoes and he was back on you in an instant. He wrapped his hands around your thighs and lifted you up until you were lined up against his cock and you could feel it throbbing through his pants. You moaned out in the room as he continued to grind into you through your panties and sucked bruises into your neck. You were achingly wet and you knew that he could feel it. He lifted one of his arms from your thigh and used it to tug your panties to the slide and slide his fingers up and down your pussy. You tried to grind down on his fingers, needing to be filled and satisfied but he moved them before you could. He brought his fingers up to his mouth and licked them one at a time as he kept his eyes locked onto yours. You trembled under the weight of his gaze and could feel the precum from him leaking through his pants against your thigh. You took one of your hands down from his neck and slid it into his pants, grabbing at him and slowly stroking him he leaned into your shoulder and began groaning against you as you continued to rub up and down his length. You could feel him rocking into your hand as his moans starting coming out louder and you could feel his hot breath panting against your neck. He eventually pulled your hand up and ripped the lace panties you had on so that you were fully exposed. His hand moved down to spring his cock free from his pants. You looked down and gulped at the sight of his length shiny and wet, dripping his precum. He began dragging it up and down your cunt, making you moan at the feel of it rubbing against your lips. You tried to push him inside of you with your legs around his waist but you could feel his thigh muscles flexing as he held himself back to keep teasing you. He had one hand wrapped around your thigh still and you could see the muscles in his bicep barely having to work. The other hand tangled in your hair holding you still so that you have to look at him. You bite back a moan thinking about the brute strength that he has and how he uses it on you. He stares at you now and with a gasp you feel him sink deep into you. He kisses you softly and bites against your lips placing his forehead against yours.

“I wanna hear you,” he breathes out. “I want everyone out there to hear you scream and know that I’m the only one who can fuck you like this,” he punctuates the last part with a deep roll of his hips as you throw your head back and moan loudly.

The thought that anyone out there could hear you, could listen to the sounds coming out of you, that only Martin knew how to drag out of you, the thought that everyone in that room would know that you were his and that the marks on you were left only by him thrilled you and made you moan even louder.

He began pulsing in and out of you, setting a rough pace that made you breathless and unable to concentrate, which was exactly what he wanted.

“God, I love seeing you in my jersey, everyone knows who you belong to. Say it, I wanna hear you say it,” he groaned out.

“I-uhhh-I b-belong to you,” you gasped out. “Only you, only you!” you began to breath out in a mantra as he continued to plunge deeper and deeper within you.

“You’re the only one, only one who can fuck me like this,” you said in between breathy moans

You began panting out as you felt yourself getting close, he raised one of your hips up changing the angle oh so slightly but so perfectly that you began seeing stars as he now gave shallow thrusts in and out of you, keeping you filled at all times. His other hand came up around your neck gripping it, his thumb digging into you. You always loved his large hands but you didn’t realize how much you’d love them wrapped around your throat.

“Ooh baby you look so good like this,” He said. “Clenching down on my cock, moaning like a whore for everyone to hear, getting my jersey soaked with your sweat as I fuck into you,” he whispered into your ear as he began nibbling on it.

You shudder hearing him talk like this, you knew he would talk in bed sometimes but usually it wasn’t like this. You loved it.

You could feel him begin to stutter as he got close. He brought his mouth up to yours and fucked his tongue into your mouth as the grip on your neck got even tighter. He shoved even closer to you so that he held you up by his hips alone and rocked into you using his free hand to slide up into your shirt and play with your nipples making your breath hitch even higher.

“That’s right baby, you’re so close aren’t you” he growled into your ear.

All you could say was “Yes, yes, yes please make me cum make me cum I’m so close”

He then brought his free hand down to rub circles against your clit as he pounded into you, making you scream out and shake as you arched your back off the door. You could feel yourself clench down around him and felt him pulsing as he came inside of you the heat of him filling you up as he moaned out your name.

He stepped back and allowed you to set your feet back down on the ground before his mouth was back on yours. He had one hand on your hip gripping tight and the other was slowly working its way down your body.  You could feel his cum dripping down your legs mixed with your own wet slick. He dragged his fingers inside of you making you jolt at the feeling. He brought his fingers up to your mouth, making you suck on them so that you could taste the two of you combined together. His other hand left your hip and began to play with your clit once again, making you moan around his fingers in your mouth from the overstimulation. Your body began to jerk as you felt yourself about to come again but before you could he sunk down to his knees and stuck his tongue inside of you along with his fingers on your clit making you yell out as you came again around his tongue.

He kissed you, lovingly this time as he sighed into your mouth and held you softly. You broke the kiss and gasped in a breath.

“Wow,” you sighed.

“Yeah, wow,” he replied, smiling down at you.

“Congratulations on the cup,” you said, laughing a little to yourself at the craziness of this all.

“Thanks,” he said, laughing a little himself.

“I still think I’ve won something better though,” you said.

“Oh yeah, what’s that?” he asked.

“You,” you said gazing up at him.

He smiled and brought his hand to your cheek.

“I love you,” he said and gave you a chaste kiss on the lips.

“I know,” you said back.  

A/N: Hi again, hope you enjoyed my very first imagine! Let me know how I did and if you want me to write more! :)

[not-so-lonely-star]

At Least a Little

Summary: Dex is doing an admirable job of forgetting about what exactly happened on their Taddy tour - at least he was until a poorly timed game of spin the bottle ruins everything. Rating: M Wordcount: ~1700 A/N: So I just found out this week is Nursey week and don’t have the time to write something new, but in honor of it I’m posting this nurseydex fic that’s been sitting in my drafts forever. Thanks for reading! 

"I'm not gay Nurse," he spits. 

Nursey recoils as though he's been slapped. "Well excuse me," he says, "but since my dick has been in your mouth I'd beg to differ. That's at least a little bi." Nursey smiles, as though he's just chirping Dex - as though it's no big deal. 

"I swear to god Nurse, if you ever bring that up again I'm going to punch you in your fucking face." Dex says between clenched teeth, nails biting roughly into his palms. If he doesn't walk away right now he's going to make good on his promise sooner rather than later. 

Dex turns away from Nursey without a word and starts to walk towards the locker room door. He wants to yank off his pads and throw his helmet but then his new teammates are going to ask what's wrong and Dex really doesn't think they'll take nothing for an answer. 

The second he steps into the locker room there's a gloved hand on his shoulder and Dex whips around to face Nursey. "Leave me the fuck alone Nurse," Dex says, yanking his arm out from underneath Nursey's touch.

"Woah," Shitty says, completely bare ass naked and standing in the middle of the locker room. "Not cool bro." 

"Yeah," Holster echoes, "d-men have to stick together, right Rans?" 

Ransom nods in solidarity and Dex is honestly considering forgoing the shower to just rip his pads off and get the fuck out of there when Nursey speaks up. 

"Nah, it's alright guys." Nursey shrugs as he shoulders off his pads and throws them into a heap at the bottom of his locker. "I was revving him up."

Dex slams his gear into his locker and turns on Nursey, adamantly keeping his gaze off of the other man's now bare chest. "I don't need you to take the blame Nursey. You don't have to pretend to be some fucking martyr -" 

"Guys," Chowder says with a frown tugging his lips down unnaturally - and after winning the game with a shutout no less. The quiver in Chowder's lip makes Dex feel like shit. 

Dex takes a deep breath and turns away from the group. "Sorry Chow," he says, soft enough that Chowder is the only one able to hear him. 

Dex likes Samwell, he really does, even if being anywhere near Nursey sets his teeth on edge. And the annoying thing is everyone keeps talking about this crazy chemistry they have and Dex knows, he knows they're talking about on the ice, but it just makes his mind go back to that night that he's trying really hard to forget. 

Once they get back to the hotel after the game Ransom and Holster keep going on about their chemistry, as if that'll make Dex's freak-out in the locker room go away. They're also spouting increasingly ridiculous reasons for why their on ice chemistry is practically nonexistent off ice. So when Shitty drunkenly suggests they all play a game from his spot on the floor of his and Jack's hotel room, Dex is relieved - until three seconds later when Ransom suggests spin the bottle. 

"Yeah no," Dex says moving to stand up off the floor. "There's no way I'm playing spin the bottle."

There's a chorus of boos as the team tries to convince him to play, but in a room with seven guys and only one girl, even agreeing to play the game is definitely not something he's willing to do. Before Dex can leave the room - despite their protests - Shitty speaks. 

"Jack, you're captain," he says, waving his half empty beer bottle around as he speaks, "What do you say?"

Jack glances across the circle to where Chowder and Bitty are sitting before his eyes flick back to Shitty. "I'll play." 

Everyone in the room freaks out, which is probably due to the fact that their stoic captain is going to play a kissing game, combined with the fact that most of the room's occupants are at least a little tipsy. 

Lardo knocks her shoulder into Jack from her spot beside him and smiles. "Nice, bro." 

Everyone's eyes return to Dex, who's still half crouched next to Chowder and as far away from Nursey as physically possible in the small hotel room floor. 

"It's no big deal Dex," Chowder says, tugging him gently back into a seated position. "I'm straight too." 

Dex forces a smile at Chowder and sits properly. He can't very well leave now, but the thing is, Chowder is secure in his heterosexuality, whereas - despite what he may have said to Nursey to the contrary - Dex's is a thin fragile thing that this game could very well break. 

Shitty spins first, of course, and when it lands halfway between Jack and Holster he plants a sloppy kiss on them both, and Lardo for good measure. The game continues on to hoots and catcalls from all involved. Dex knows his shoulders are halfway up to his ears and his face has a near permanent red tint, but he can't relax because he feels like if the bottle lands on him and he kisses any of the boys he won't be able to pretend he's straight anymore, not to himself or any of them. Thankfully, they've made it halfway around the circle and it hasn't landed on Dex once. After Shitty, Lardo, Jack, Holster, and Ransom have gone (with Ransom and Holster both making out with each other until Shitty tugged them apart even though the bottle didn't land on them either time) there's only Nursey, Bitty and Chowder left before Dex can make his escape.

Nursey takes the bottle from Ransom and sets it in the center of their circle, giving it a lazy spin. It spirals three times before landing definitively on Dex. There's catcalls and laughter from their teammates and Dex feels his face grow impossibly hotter. Nursey looks up at him and smiles shyly, about to crawl in front of Bitty and Chowder towards Dex to kiss him in front of their entire team and Dex cannot do this. 

"I'm not playing," Dex says, to the room in general, eyes flicking away from the hurt on Nursey's face as he leaps up from his spot and damn near runs out of the room. 

Dex knows he's only got a brief reprieve before Nursey comes into their room because Jack - or more likely Holster - thought it would be a good idea for them to share a room on roadies so they could bond or something. Dex slips into his pajamas  and lays down in his bed, praying he'll fall asleep quickly and not have to deal with a tipsy Nursey stumbling back into their room. 

And of course, of course, now all Dex can think about as he's trying to fall asleep is their fucking chemistry. They'd met on the taddy tour and Dex had stupidly gone to Nursey's hotel room - because the guy couldn't spend one night in the dorms - after the tour was over. He still doesn't know exactly why he'd done it except for the fact that he was at Samwell and a little drunk and there was no way some prep school kid like Nursey would actually enroll, so he'd figured it'd be safe to follow him back to his hotel room because there was no chance he'd ever have to see the kid again. 

Derek's lips had been warm on his, tongue probing at his mouth. While the mechanics were the same, kissing girls never made him feel like this - like there was a fire beneath the surface of his skin aching to break out. Will moaned and grabbed Derek's waist, pulling him closer. Derek's teeth dragged along Will's lower lip. Will could feel his entire face was on fire, but he didn't care because the hottest guy he'd ever seen was kissing him like he fucking meant it. Feeling brave, Will let his hands droop lower until he was cupping Derek's ass through the thick material of his jeans. Derek moaned into his mouth and rocked his hips into Will's.

He was hard, Derek was rock fucking hard against him and Will made him that way. The thought was empowering and Will pushed forward, causing Derek to stumble back further into the room. They broke the kiss. Derek half sat  half fell down onto the edge of the bed, and looked up at Will, flushed and wrecked and unbearably hard. Derek shifted in his pants and looked like he was about to say something - but Will didn't want to stop and think about how stupid this was. He cut him off by ducking down and unzipping his jeans shoving them down until they got caught around his ankles. 

"I - um," Derek said, sounding decidedly unchill. "Ugh nuhh," he moaned when Will dipped down to wrap his lips around Derek's cock. 

He hadn't ever done this before, but it didn't seem too complicated. Will sucked and licked and cataloged anything that elicited a moan until Derek was squirming beneath him, hands fisted in the sheets. 

"Wi- Will," he finally managed to gasp out, and god, Will made him sound like that. "I'm going to - " 

Will pulled off of him with a wet pop and wiped the back of his hand against his mouth. Derek pulled him up until Will was straddling him, fabric of his jeans rubbing against the bare skin of Derek's dick. Derek gasped into Will's mouth between kisses, hand slipping down beneath the waistband of his - 

A loud crash in the hall outside of the hotel room jolts Will back to the present. The door creaks open and Derek shuffles into the room, leaving the light off to stumble around for his pajamas in the dark. Nursey knocks into Dex's bed on his way to the bathroom and groans softly. Thankful for the heavy comforter, Dex rolls over so it's not quite so obvious that he's half hard and biting back a whimper. 

He's so totally screwed. 

[flauntpage]

Your Friday Morning Roundup

It truly is hittin’ season.

I don’t really know what the Eagles-Phillies viewer ratio was, especially with the Birds game being a big snoozer. But I was watching the Eagles the entire time before flipping over to the Phils.

And the Phils looked out of it. They gave up five runs earlier in the game and scored a lone run in the eighth. But after Jean Segura’s flyout, Cesar Hernandez reached first on a fielding error by David Bote. Scott Kingery singled, followed by a pair of RBI singles from Brad Miller and Roman Quinn. Then Rhys Hoskins loaded the bases as he got hit by a pitch.

Pedro Strop was pulled in favor of Derek Holland. The Cubs needed two more outs and had a double play set. Bryce Harper at the dish:

BRYCE-GRAND-FREAKIN'-SLAMMIN-HARPER. pic.twitter.com/qFFcqtoYV3

— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) August 16, 2019

“OH my GOD!” Thank you Kruker.

That capped off a six-run ninth and gave the Phils the 7-5 win and the sweep over the Cubs. It was a much-needed sweep as well.

Prior to the eighth, the Phillies only had five hits, four of them coming off Yu Darvish who pitched seven shutout innings with 10 strikeouts. On the other end, Drew Smyly wasn’t great at all, giving up all five runs off seven hits with six strikeouts in five innings.

With that, the Cubs got leapfrogged by the Cardinals for first in the NL Central and now hold the 2nd wild card spot. The Phils are a game back, along with the Brewers. And Charlie Manuel is probably doing wonders.

Up next is a three-game home series with the San Diego Padres beginning tonight at 7:05 PM on NBC 10. Vince Velasquez takes the mound against Chris Paddack. Zach Eflin and Jason Vargas are expected to start on the weekend.

The Roundup:

Now on to the Eagles, who defeated the Jaguars 24-10 last night in what was overall a boring game. Neither Nick Foles or Carson Wentz played. Cody Kessler was the starting quarterback and got concussed a few plays into the game. Clayton Thorson came in and actually did pretty decent, much better than what he was last week. This 38 yard TD to Greg Ward on 4th down was the best play of the game.

Clayton Thorson places the pass where it needs to be and Greg Ward handles the rest for a 38-yard score.#PHIvsJAX | #FlyEaglesFly pic.twitter.com/XQfhDgy4xd

— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) August 15, 2019

Starters wise, Miles Sanders and Jordan Howard were on the field, while the defense had their starters out for a couple of drives. Daeshon Hall looked really good.

The team will probably have to address their QB situation sometime in the next few days. If for some reason Kessler can’t play, Wentz and Thorson are the only healthy QBs. Doug Pederson said Greg Ward was their emergency thrower last night. The Ravens come into town on Monday for a pair of joint practices.

In other Eagles news that has nothing to do with the on-field product, these Nike shoes look nice.

Jake Voracek thanked everyone for wishing him a happy birthday and trolled on Twitter. He’s a very underrated Twitter follow.

In other sports news, DeMarcus Cousins tore his ACL and might miss the entire season.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his wife are okay after a plane crashed in Tennessee.

Skip Bayless says his Undisputed debates aren’t contrived or molded to play well for TV.

We need to ban a few words from the sports media lexicon.

In the news, an assault rifle was recovered from Maurice Hill’s home.

Donald Trump wants to buy Greenland.

The post Your Friday Morning Roundup appeared first on Crossing Broad.

Your Friday Morning Roundup published first on https://footballhighlightseurope.tumblr.com/

[flauntpage]

Your Friday Morning Roundup

It truly is hittin’ season.

I don’t really know what the Eagles-Phillies viewer ratio was, especially with the Birds game being a big snoozer. But I was watching the Eagles the entire time before flipping over to the Phils.

And the Phils looked out of it. They gave up five runs earlier in the game and scored a lone run in the eighth. But after Jean Segura’s flyout, Cesar Hernandez reached first on a fielding error by David Bote. Scott Kingery singled, followed by a pair of RBI singles from Brad Miller and Roman Quinn. Then Rhys Hoskins loaded the bases as he got hit by a pitch.

Pedro Strop was pulled in favor of Derek Holland. The Cubs needed two more outs and had a double play set. Bryce Harper at the dish:

BRYCE-GRAND-FREAKIN'-SLAMMIN-HARPER. pic.twitter.com/qFFcqtoYV3

— NBC Sports Philadelphia (@NBCSPhilly) August 16, 2019

“OH my GOD!” Thank you Kruker.

That capped off a six-run ninth and gave the Phils the 7-5 win and the sweep over the Cubs. It was a much-needed sweep as well.

Prior to the eighth, the Phillies only had five hits, four of them coming off Yu Darvish who pitched seven shutout innings with 10 strikeouts. On the other end, Drew Smyly wasn’t great at all, giving up all five runs off seven hits with six strikeouts in five innings.

With that, the Cubs got leapfrogged by the Cardinals for first in the NL Central and now hold the 2nd wild card spot. The Phils are a game back, along with the Brewers. And Charlie Manuel is probably doing wonders.

Up next is a three-game home series with the San Diego Padres beginning tonight at 7:05 PM on NBC 10. Vince Velasquez takes the mound against Chris Paddack. Zach Eflin and Jason Vargas are expected to start on the weekend.

The Roundup:

Now on to the Eagles, who defeated the Jaguars 24-10 last night in what was overall a boring game. Neither Nick Foles or Carson Wentz played. Cody Kessler was the starting quarterback and got concussed a few plays into the game. Clayton Thorson came in and actually did pretty decent, much better than what he was last week. This 38 yard TD to Greg Ward on 4th down was the best play of the game.

Clayton Thorson places the pass where it needs to be and Greg Ward handles the rest for a 38-yard score.#PHIvsJAX | #FlyEaglesFly pic.twitter.com/XQfhDgy4xd

— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) August 15, 2019

Starters wise, Miles Sanders and Jordan Howard were on the field, while the defense had their starters out for a couple of drives. Daeshon Hall looked really good.

The team will probably have to address their QB situation sometime in the next few days. If for some reason Kessler can’t play, Wentz and Thorson are the only healthy QBs. Doug Pederson said Greg Ward was their emergency thrower last night. The Ravens come into town on Monday for a pair of joint practices.

In other Eagles news that has nothing to do with the on-field product, these Nike shoes look nice.

Jake Voracek thanked everyone for wishing him a happy birthday and trolled on Twitter. He’s a very underrated Twitter follow.

In other sports news, DeMarcus Cousins tore his ACL and might miss the entire season.

Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his wife are okay after a plane crashed in Tennessee.

Skip Bayless says his Undisputed debates aren’t contrived or molded to play well for TV.

We need to ban a few words from the sports media lexicon.

In the news, an assault rifle was recovered from Maurice Hill’s home.

Donald Trump wants to buy Greenland.

The post Your Friday Morning Roundup appeared first on Crossing Broad.

Your Friday Morning Roundup published first on https://footballhighlightseurope.tumblr.com/