#then run away once you get out of the car

[rafesdollette]

SLEEPOVER WITH SECRET!BF!RAFE

a/n: i got a request for this a few weeks ago but the ask deleted itself so I'm so sorry to whoever sent that! and i'm trying to get out of my writers block so enjoy...whatever this is. (not sure how I feel about this) not proofread!!

cw: contains smut, 18+

“come over? just for a little bit?” rafe asked as he looked at you through the facetime camera. it's been a rough day for him and you were really the only person he wanted to see right now. but it was past midnight and you weren't supposed to be out of the house around this time, let alone going to his house.

you've been told by your parents to stay away from him—countless times, actually. rafe knew he had some...things to work on, but in his mind, he wasn't that bad. at least towards you. “dunno rafe...'m already in trouble for skipping school yesterday.” you frown, tapping your manicured finger on the side of your phone. rafe sighed, sitting up against his headboard “please? it'll be quick. i'll sneak ya in and out.”

you were hesitating and that's something rafe could see clearly, but he was desperate. you were one of the only people he actually cared about these days and he didn't want to be alone right now, especially not at night.

“please..? you're the only person i want to see right now.” he pleaded, almost begging in a way. he was never one to beg, but it was the only thing he could think of that could convince you to come.

you thought it over as you bit the inside of your cheek. you knew how it would end if your parents found out you snuck out of your house. “isn't sarah home though?” rafe was silent for a moment, his hand running through his hair “no...she's out. won't be home 'til morning” he murmured. that was one less obstacle so it was one good thing. but you still weren't sure. rafe was your boyfriend and you cared about him, but sneaking out wasn't the best idea right now. “but my parents said-”

“i know sweetheart and i'm not tryna get you in trouble, but i swear it'll be like thirty minutes.” he cut you off, his tone almost desperate. you bit your lip as you leaned back against your headboard. “rafe...” you trailed off with a sigh. you weren't saying no right away, but you weren't saying yes either. it was clear you were conflicted as you hesitated before adding, “okay, fine. but just for thirty minutes. not a second longer.”

rafe's face lit up as he heard you agree. he knew he could be convincing if he wanted to and he was so glad it worked this time. “thank you baby, be outside waiting. i'll come get you.” with that, he ended the facetime, standing from his bed as he grabbed a jacket and his keys. it didn't take long for you to change into some shorts and a hoodie and put your shoes on. you carefully crept out of your room and out into the livingroom, pausing to listen for any noises. once you were sure your parents were asleep, you opened up the front door and slipped outside, shutting the door quietly behind you. by the time you were out of your house, rafe was already parked outside.

rafe was leaning against the door of his car as he waited for you. he heard the door open and shut, looking up and seeing you walking towards him. he could see you were nervous, but it didn't stop him from pulling you into a tight hug. “hey,” he greeted, his voice tired but he felt better with you in his arms. you returned his hug, leaning into the embrace. “hey...” you murmured back, your tone almost equally as tired. you could feel the exhaustion in him as he hugged you and you felt the need to ask, “you okay?”

rafe let out a sigh against your shoulder, giving you a light squeeze before leaning back “not really...” he mumbled, releasing his hold on you reluctantly. he opened the passenger side door for you, waiting until you got in before shutting the door and walking around to get into the driver's side.

you got into his car, leaning back in the seat as you looked over him. you could tell something was bothering him by the look on his face and his tone of voice. it's been a long time since he sounded that exhausted. “...rough day?”

rafe ran a hand over his face, looking over to you wearily “rough life.” he mumbled, starting up the car as he pulled out from the curb. “seatbelt.” you hummed quietly as you reached out to grab the seatbelt, buckling yourself in. you decided not to ask more about what exactly was bothering him; in time, he'd probably talk about it.

the car ride was silent as rafe drove back to his house. you didn't mind though, figuring that he needed the silence in order to calm his head for a bit. a few moments passed before he parked in his driveway, unlocking the doors and getting out. he came around the side and opened your door for you, offering his hand to help you out of the car.

you slipped your hand into his, letting him help you out of the car. walking through his yard, he quietly unlocked his front door and let you in first. “wheezie's home so we're gonna have to be quiet” he said as he shut the door behind him, locking it again.

you followed him inside “gotcha” you whispered as you looked around. “is she awake? i don't wanna be the reason she doesn't sleep.”

“she's asleep.” he mumbled, nodding towards the stairwell. “come on..” he took your hand again, quietly leading you upstairs to his bedroom. once inside, he closed the door and locked it before turning on his bedside lamp and walking over to his bed.

you followed him to his bed, crawling onto it and moving to lay back against the pillows. you could still see the exhaustion in his body as he laid down next to you, his head resting against your shoulder as he wrapped an arm around your waist. “wanna talk about anything...?” rafe was silent for a moment, almost as if he was thinking about your question. he really didn't wanna talk about anything at all. all he wanted was to lay here with you, which he thought to himself as he shook his head. “nah”

you nodded once he answered, wrapping an arm around his shoulders as you closed your eyes. you could tell he didn't want to talk and you were okay with that. you both laid there in comfortable silence, no sounds besides the sound of your breathing and the occasional passing of a car outside. “can i do anything to help?”

it felt good to lay here with you. it was the only real peace he's felt in weeks and it helped calm him a little. when you spoke again, he lifted his head to look at you, his tired eyes meeting yours.

he moved a bit closer to you, his arm around your waist tightening as his head rested on your chest. “this is more than enough for me, sweetheart” he murmured, his fingers brushing against your side. “i do have a request though”

you looked down at him, your fingers lightly running through his hair as you waited for him to speak. you could tell he was still thinking about something and you waited patiently before finally speaking, “what is it?” rafe's eyes closed as your fingers ran through his hair. he loved when you did that and it relaxed him greatly

he was still silent for a few more moments before finally speaking. “i need to relieve some stress.” he murmured, his fingers gently brushing against your waist once more before suddenly resting right above the drawstring of your shorts.

────୨ৎ────

“a-ah shit, rafe” your hands clench by your sides as rafe glides his tip between your drenched folds, looking down at you with this tongue between his teeth. “mmh...this wet already, darling? barely even touched ya yet.” rafe hummed, smirking down at you. all you can do is nod and let out a whimper as he tapped his cock against your cunt. “nuh-uh, words. none of that whimpering shit”

you were already a stuttering, whimpering mess as he ran his fingers over your clit. you needed more from him, wanted to feel more of him, but you knew that he wasn't going to give that to you until you answered.

you let out a shaky breath as you looked up at him, eyes wide. “yes!” you quickly whimpered, “been thinking about it all night. please, please rafe...” you whimpered, your hips bucking up in an attempt to get more from him. “i know baby, i know” rafe murmured, running his tongue over his bottom lip as he teased your clit with his thumb again “been so long since you've had this cock, yeah?”

you nodded rapidly, eyes pleading him to do something, anything. you wanted him so badly and you could tell he was just teasing, which was driving you absolutely insane. “rafe..." you murmured, your voice trembling a little. rafe chuckled softly, shaking his head “come on. don't get all shy with me now. tell me what you want” he said with a smirk, his fingers still moving over your clit, barely applying pressure. he could feel you shaking beneath him, which encouraged him to tease you a little more. “tsk tsk i want an answer. i know you know how to talk, baby. i just wanna hear your pretty little voice say it.”

you swallowed hard as you looked up at him from under your lashes; he looked so damn proud of himself. you were almost positive he got off on teasing you like this, and the last thing you wanted to do was give him that satisfaction. but your patience was wearing thin and you were getting desperate. you just wanted him to touch you already, but he was always so stubborn. you ran your tongue over your bottom lip as you met his gaze again, your voice shaking a little as you finally spoke up, “n-need you rafe…please...”

“mmh, that's my good girl. i knew you could do it baby.” rafe murmured, finally pushing his cock into your aching hole, causing both of you to let out simultaneous moans. “a-ah fuck” you gasp, gripping onto his biceps as he pushes all the way in, making you groan at the feeling, his cock slowly slipping all the way down, filling you to the hilt, “so fuckin' tight” he groans under his breath at the feeling of your narrow pussy engulfing his member.

you whimper as he remains motionless, denying you the much needed friction. “mmh what do we say after i give you something, baby?”

you could practically hear the smirk in his voice as he murmured the question into your ear. he knew what he was doing. he knew exactly how to get you to say what he wanted you to say, knowing how well he filled you up and how he wasn't moving. you moaned quietly, hands moving to grip onto his back as you looked up at him with watery eyes, “thank you.”

rafe hummed and nodded against your neck, lightly kissing just under your ear as he lifted his head, “good girl.” he said “you're welcome, my love. anytime.”

he finally pulled his hips back a little, thrusting back into you “you feel so damn good, baby.” he breathed before beginning to thrust into you harder, repeatedly hitting your cervix deliciously “been too long without having you.” he murmured, his hand gripping onto the back of your thigh, lifting your leg up over his shoulder. the change of position caused his cock to slide even deeper, making you gasp.

you whimpered at the feeling of him hitting your sweet spot, unable to speak clearly “oh...oh g-god rafe” you tried, your eyes already shut as you tried to move your hips in time with his. he could feel your nails digging into his shoulders, leaving red indents. “look at me.” he murmured in your ear, his hand reaching down to grab your chin, turning your face towards his “look at me while i'm fucking you, sweetheart. ” your mind goes a little blank for a moment when he says that, only able to focus on the feeling of him inside you. it takes a few seconds before you manage to open your eyes again, meeting his gaze. rafe's eyes are focused on you, a small smirk on his lips as he sees you staring “there you are.” he hums, biting down on his lip once he feels you start to clench around him “shit, you gonna cum already?”

“yeah...mmh, so close ray.” you moan, struggling to keep your eyes on him as his hand reaches to press his thumb against your clit, rubbing tight circles. “so fast, sweetheart?” rafe murmured with a smirk “been that long, huh? gonna make a mess all over my cock already?” you don't even have time to respond before your orgasm hits you hard, your body shaking as the coil in your stomach snapped. eyes squeezed shut, walls clenching around his twitching shaft. the way your pussy cinched around him is all rafe needed to go over the edge, spilling his seed deep inside you.

“mmh ray?” you murmur, looking up at him with your glossy eyes. “hm?”

“think 'm gonna stay here tonight.”

taglist: @bunbun-3 @drewscoquette @untitled10351 @rafesweetie @meetmebehindthemallrafe @supercutelovergirl

© rafesdollette

[please-destroy]

Falling Into It

Natasha Romanoff x Female!Reader

Word Count: 1.6k

.

Sometimes, people get confused between embarrassment and shame.

Embarrassment is a reddened cheeks, eyes to the floor and a faltering laugh kind of feeling. It’s when you walk past Natasha and feel her eyes on you. It’s losing your train of thought whenever she enters the room.

Shame is the permanent lump in your throat. It is the worry that someone else will notice the way you look at her. It is knowing that you might only be welcome in your home because you are pretending.

-

You first visited the Avengers Compound because you had become friends with Wanda. You’d been hesitant to accept her invite, only saying yes when you noticed how nervous she was to ask.

That evening, you’d found yourself sharing takeout with the whole team in the living room, accidentally encroaching on a post-mission celebration. You’d never settled into a group of friends so seamlessly. It was like walking into a world upside down. The boring, everyday details of your life filled the others with fascination.

Steve asked follow up questions to every story you shared. 

Tony told you jokes about the other Avengers, like you were an old friend. 

Wanda looked at you like she was so glad to have brought you.

Clint asked if you had a boyfriend and you avoided the question.

Then Natasha had walked in, delayed by her mission debrief, and it had physically hurt to see someone so beautiful. You tried to push the feeling down. Natasha looked over at you, the obvious newcomer, and her eyes darted meaningfully to your lips. You felt the immediate stain of want for her. She marked your skin before her lips ever touched you. 

-

But, her lips did touch you.

The second time you visited, Natasha found you alone in the hallway. Her eyes met yours with a look that invited challenge. You gulped involuntarily. Then, she moved towards you and you stopped in your tracks. Natasha’s hand touched your chest and you felt compelled to her like a magnet.

Natasha pressed you against the wall. She kissed you so hard that it felt like a tidal wave. A million little particles hitting you at once and somehow you stayed standing. Your hands held the soft curve of her waist and you felt an ache run through you. Her tongue was in your mouth and she tasted like warm things that you couldn’t name. You felt your own moan reach the back of her throat. Lost parts of you pieced themselves back together. You fell into the feeling.

-

When she pulled away, Natasha brushed your cheek with her thumb and you realised you were crying.

‘Don’t worry.’ She promised. ‘We don’t have to tell anyone.’

It was the kindest thing she could have done. But it also hurt the most.

-

Soon, what you were and who you wanted began to bleed through the cracks that Natasha had made in you. You caught moments with her like catching leaves in the wind. Her hand brushed yours when you passed each other in the kitchen. You kissed her in the shadows when she met you by your car. Her hands roamed your body whenever you found yourselves alone.

After two months they offered you a room at the Compound. The gesture meant everything. You’d never fit in easily before and now the superheroes wanted you around.

‘No mixed sleepovers.’ Tony teased and suddenly, you felt like a liar.

-

When you walked to your new room that night, Natasha opened her door and pulled you into hers instead. You fell into the feeling all over again.

You touched her skin, silky with soap suds, in the shower. You let your hands move over her breasts, watched the way she bit her lip and heard the low moan that slipped out too. It felt more right than you ever thought it could.

Then, Natasha’s finger stroked along you and you pressed yourself into her palm. You felt a need build in you, raw and desperate.

When Natasha unwound you with a slow finger curl, you made a sound and a shudder that you couldn’t control. 

-

You crawled into Natasha’s bed after. She held you close and you let her arms keep you for the night. Head on Natasha’s shoulder, you watched her breasts rise with every breath and, all in a rush, you felt that you were whole.

You could see now that there was no stopping it. Still, you didn’t accept it. 

It is impossible to embrace shame. It doesn’t free you like anger can, it just settles like a weight on your heart.

-

Time passed and the Compound became your second home. The team became the people you saw everyday, the people you trusted. Sometimes, they still asked you about boys. Your throat closed up every time. They thought you were shy.

You thought that if you told them, they’d forget all the other parts of you. They’d just see the lump in your throat that you couldn’t get rid of.

You saw all the goodness in Wanda, she made you smile everyday. You kept her secrets and she respected the privacy of your own thoughts. You watched her brighten a little more with every day that passed. She was your best friend.

Natasha kept her distance from you in front of the others.

‘She’s just being Natasha.’ Steve assured you more than once, worried you were taking it to heart.

You knew that.

You knew Natasha. You slept in her bed. 

You felt stuck, dreading change and longing for it too. Each time Natasha made your heart skip a beat, it felt more dangerous.

You were falling into the feeling and you couldn't even say the words to her.

-

You knew the vague answers that you gave the team had slowly turned into a false identity. You told yourself that you were the same person underneath, but the lines felt blurred. The guilt was worse with Wanda. She told you sometimes about trying to come to terms with herself, with the things she couldn’t control and the things she could. You felt so ashamed of your secret. You tried to pour it into your support of her. 

Wanda told you once, sitting in her room together, that you were like her sister. You knew how brave she was to claim you as family. She didn’t truly know you and that was your fault.

-

One night, you sat with several of the team watching a movie. They’d spent a mission using the comms to decide that it was criminal that Steve and Bucky hadn’t ever seen Jurassic Park. When Wanda admitted she hadn’t either, you’d all found yourself roped into the evening. 

Natasha sat on the opposite sofa from you, legs resting across Clint’s lap. You shared a bowl of popcorn with Wanda, who couldn’t keep her eyes off the screen.

The movie was halfway through when Natasha came over. The stillness in the room came from collective surprise; Natasha rarely directly interacted with you. You felt nerves bubble up, at her and at the audience. She took off her sweater and gave it to you.

‘Here.’ Natasha murmured, like no one was watching. ‘You look cold.’

The team shared smiles at the building of bridges between you. You pulled on the sweater. You revelled in its warmth, in the unexpected kindness. You met Natasha's eyes across the room and knew it was meant to be the hug that she couldn’t give you. You inhaled her scent and your mind filled with her. You fell into the feeling.

Wanda stiffened next to you. In the half second where your eyes met, you saw the alarm in hers. You hadn’t been careful with your thoughts and she hadn’t been trying not to listen. Shame burned through you and you ripped yourself away.

‘Too scary.’ You muttered at the Velociraptors on screen and fled to your room.

-

You lay on your bed and let loud music play, keeping everyone out. Only once did you recognise Wanda’s footsteps.

Don’t come in here. You thought desperately. You listened before, so listen now.

Later, you heard Tony and Clint’s muttered conversation in the corridor.

‘It must be about a boy.’

You let yourself cry.

-

Wanda woke you up in the morning. She opened the door and walked to the end of your bed. You only had time to feel a stab of apprehension.

‘I’m sorry for listening.’ She told you directly.

‘I’m so ashamed.’ You said, voice small.

‘There’s nothing wrong with you (Y/N). You’re still my sister.’

You didn’t realise it was what you needed to hear until Wanda said it.

-

Sometimes, you still get that gnawing feeling that you are not quite right. 

Except now, Natasha kisses you as soon as she gets back from her mission. Now, Wanda sends you photos of when you fall asleep with Natasha during a movie. Now, you make one your lock screen. 

-

Wanda texts you a website link for the local Pride event. 

Clint tells you that he’ll paint rainbows on your faces.

‘I’m going to claim the face paint as a work expense.’ He tells you, but he looks over at Natasha like he owes her an apology that he doesn’t know how to say. ‘What do you think Fury’s going to say about that?’ 

Now, Natasha wakes up with a coffee mug that says ‘Love is Love’ and Clint sends her photos of the pair of you too.

.

Natasha holds your hand and kisses you in the sunshine, the crowd around you hums into background noise. Her eyes watch you when you break apart. When you smile at her, she smiles right back.

Maybe, most people aren’t like you, but that’s not so bad.

Most people aren’t like Natasha either.

[darlingdaisyfarm]

⋆. 𐙚 ˚ִֶָ mullet!stan pines x farmer's daughter!reader ♡༉‧₊˚.

honestly idk what happened i just wrote this in like 40 minutes because the idea wouldn’t leave me alone, i never write this fast sorry for the random but i love that dynamic 🤍

Gravity Falls market days were a real mess you’d grown up in but never quite adjusted to. the sun sat high and too mean, slanting golden light across the rows of wooden stalls and voices carried sharp over the sound of shuffling feet. you didn’t mind the noise because it made the hours feel faster.

your hands worked quickly, sorting the last of the peaches into the old wicker basket, as you clearly remembered your mom’s words “don’t bruise the fruit, honey; folks don’t buy what looks spoiled.” you smoothed your palm over the fabric of your overalls, standing up straight to greet the next customer and—

he wasn’t what you expected and you weren’t sure what to make of him. broad shoulders under a faded red jacket, hands stuffed into his pockets, huge dark bags under his eyes. he looked rough, unpolished you'd say, like he’d stepped out of a life far removed from your quiet one and found himself here by accident.

he nodded toward your baskets. “how much for the peaches?”

you sized him up. “depends,” you answered. “you actually gonna pay?”

that caught him off guard, did he really look that bad? his lips twitched into grin. “didn’t know this place came with an interrogation.”

“it’s not interrogation,” you shot back, leaning against the edge of the stall. “it’s just business. besides, you look like the type to run off with free samples.”

he laughed then. “well, guess you caught me,” he held his hands up like he’d been caught red-handed. “but im starving here. what’s it gonna take to get one of—”

“ahh, you must be the scientist everyone talks about.” you interrupted him, shifting the basket awkwardly against your hip.

“uh right, that's me.”

“mom mentioned you,” you continued, even though he didn't seem in the mood for conversation. “said you were. . . weird.” the word came out of your mouth before you even realized it, and your cheeks instantly flushed. great. off to a fantastic start.

but he didn't seem offended. on the contrary, he looked amused, slightly raising his eyebrows. “weird, huh?”

“her words, not mine,” you explained quickly, though it wasn't exactly untrue. “but yeah. she said you moved out here to study something? bugs? dirt?”

he chuckled. “somethin’ like that. but im pretty hungry. so what’s it gonna take to get one of those?”

you should’ve turned him away, told him to come back with cash like everyone else. but your gut told you he’d actually gone a little too long without a decent meal. yeah, thats how bad he looked.

so you reached into the basket and handed him one.

“on the house,” you said.

he blinked at you, caught somewhere between surprise and suspicion. “seriously?”

“just this once,” you warned. “but if you come back, i expect full price.”

“aww, isn't that adorable, thank you, sweetie.” he took the peach, turning it over in his hands. “heard people here mentioning you're generous girl.”

...

the sun begins its descent, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink as you ride your bicycle down the lonely country road. the day has been long, filled with selling farm food. your hat shields your face from the fading light, but a chill is settling in as the evening approaches.

the basket on your bike rattled with what was left of the day’s haul, less than you’d hoped for but enough to keep the house running another week. your legs ached from pedaling though. the cold was creeping in now.

when the headlights appeared behind you, cutting through the soft twilight, you almost didn’t notice. but then the car slowed, pulling up beside you and you heard the window roll down.

“need a lift?” a smoky voice asked.

it was him. Stanford. the same red jacket, the same grin. he surely hadn’t been expecting to see you but was damn happy about it anyway.

you hesitated as you looked at him and his car, tightening your hands around the handlebars. “and leave my bike?”

“throw it in the back,” he told you, jerking his thumb toward the back seat. “unless you’re real set on freezing out here.”

you glanced at the empty road stretching ahead of you, then back at Stanford. he didn’t seem like the kind of guy to offer something for nothing, but he also didn’t seem like the kind to push it if you said no.

so you nodded. Stanley gave you a reassuring smile. “hop in, toots. it's getting cold.” you let him haul the bike into the back before climbing into the passenger seat. the warmth from inside is immediate, a stark contrast to the cool evening air.

he didn’t say much at first, just flicked on the radio and kept his eyes on the road. but then, without looking over, he shrugged off his jacket and handed it to you.

“here, take this. it’s not much, but it’ll keep you warm.”

you took the fabric and when you putted it around your shoulders, you felt the softness of it against your skin, grateful for the gesture. “thank you,” it was too big, the sleeves hanging loose past your wrists, but it was so warm. although it smelled very strongly of cigarettes.

he shrugged modestly. “no problem. it’s the least i can do after the way you treated me last week.”

“so,” he said after a beat, glancing over with that same crooked grin. “what’s a farmer’s daughter doin’ out on the road this late?”

you pulled the jacket tighter around you. “work doesn’t stop just ‘cause the sun goes down.”

“hard worker, huh? guess your mom was right about you.”

you glanced at him in surprise and furrowed your brow. “you keep bringing up my mom like you actually know her.” you said suspiciously.

“ran into her a couple weeks ago,” he admitted. “she was real proud, talkin’ ‘bout how her daughter’s the backbone of the farm.”

heat rose to your cheeks and you turned your gaze back to the road. “she talks too much.”

“nah, she’s just proud of you.” this time, you stayed quiet, letting the hum of the engine carry you the rest of the way home.

...

the next time you see him, it’s at the farm on early morning, when dew still clings to the grass and the sky’s a pale, watercolor wash. you’d barely had time to start on your chores when that same old car rumbled down the dirt track.

Stanley stepped out, wearing that red jacket you’d given back last night, hands shoved deep into his pockets. “you forgot your bike.”

“you didn’t have to bring it all the way here.” you smiled shyly

“well,” he glanced around, assessing the place, “figured you could use it more than i could. besides, wasn’t much of a detour.”

in addition, it was the first time Stan met your dog as he stayed at the farm to try the freshly baked apple pie that you offered.

you were hauling a basket of fresh vegetables from the field when you heard a low, warning growl. you looked up, biting back a grin. “she won’t bite.”

“uh-huh,” Stan said, standing frozen in place as the big scruffy mutt circled him.

you set the basket down, whistling low, and your dog trotted over, tail wagging now that you’d given the all-clear. “this is Molly,” you said, ruffling her ears. “dont worry, she’s just protective.”

Stan crouched slowly, one knee to the dirt, sticking his hand out like he was afraid she might lunge. Molly sniffed him once, then pressed her head against his palm, tail thumping in approval.

“well, look at that,” he said, scratching behind her ears. his hands are so big, calloused, but his touch is surprisingly gentle. Molly leaned into his hand, letting out a pleased huff. “she likes me.”

but then Molly rolled over, flopping onto her back in the dust and he laughed. “spoiled,” he said, rubbing her belly as she wagged her tail.

“you don’t even know the half of it. she gets the best scraps off the table. mom says it’s why she’s got such shiny fur.”

Stan grinned. “lucky dog.” oh, how he wished he could be in Molly's shoes. to be needed at least by someone, to be taken care of, to be fed. “so, you sellin’ this week?”

you nodded, but your gaze drifted toward the fields. there was still so much work left to do, rows and rows of crops waiting to be picked and sorted. you sighed, already feeling the ache in your arms.

Stan seemed to catch on. “well, if you’re ever lookin’ for extra hands, i know a guy who owes you a couple favors.”

...

you don’t know why you start bringing him food. it’s not like Stanley asked for it and he’s certainly not the kind of man who’d admit if he needed it. but you, the sweetest girl in town, noticed how he looked that first day at the market, hunger written all over him like and that makes it impossible not to.

it started with a couple of peaches tucked into a paper bag which you carefully left on the counter of the Mystery Shack with a quick, “thought you might want something fresh.” but then it grew into a jar of honey. then. . . in a bundle of wildflowers tied with twine.

one day, you showed up with a loaf of bread so fresh it was still warm, wrapped in an old tea towel embroidered with little sunflowers. Stanley was tinkering with something behind the counter, muttering something about journals but when he saw you, he stopped, wiping his hands on his pants.

“you know, you don’t have to keep bringing me this stuff,” he said even as he took the loaf from your hands.

“i know, yeah, but you’re always here, and I figured. . . well, everyone deserves a decent meal now and then.” he looked at you for a long moment, longer than felt normal, trying to figure out if you were pulling some kind of trick.

“thanks,” he said your name. “that means a lot.”

and it becomes a thing, fresh eggs one day, a loaf of bread the next. you don’t stay long when you drop them off, because Stanford always says he's kinda busy here, dealing with some of his "scientific research”, so you quickly greet him, maybe say some comment about the weather, but every damn time he sees you, his face softens, genuine smile appearing on it, his shoulders relax too. maybe you’re not just bringing food but something else he’s been missing.

and sometimes, Stanley feels too lonely, so he pulls out an old chair and offers you coffee, the two of you sitting on the porch while he tells you about his life.

[homeofthelonelywriter]

Idea | Previous Part

tw: future dom-sub relationship, sexually explicit content, pet names, age gap (early twenties - late thirties)

After staring at the door for a few more moments, you shook your head, shaking yourself out of your stupor. A quiet mumbled ‘the fuck’ was the last straw for you to focus back on the here and now. Quickly, you tugged the card away, vowing to never use it. And so, you continued on the job hunt, before leaving the cafe a few hours later, making your way home, feeling dejected, confused, and kind of jealous.

A few days later

It was getting tough. Yesterday, you had spent the last of the money in your account. You had managed to scratch up some cash, searching through the few bags you had, as well as everywhere in your apartment. If it continued like this, you’d have to move out again in a week, as well as go on a strict ‘only cafeteria food that’s included in the tuition’ diet.

You had once again spent most of your day sending out applications with no results to show. Dejected, you made your way back to your apartment, walking the dark streets with your head in the clouds, trying to think of ways to come up with money. Feet pics? Nah, you didn’t like your feet enough for that. Only Fans? Hell no! Maybe you could sell your virginity?

Being so lost in thought, you only noticed the car slowly tailing you when you were almost home. It was a black limousine, you couldn’t see the license plate but you got a creepy feeling from it. Trying to be inconspicuous, you started to walk a bit faster, slowly speeding up, especially when you heard the door open and close behind you. The moment you heard the crunch of footfall behind you, you broke into a sprint, but you didn’t get far before a firm hand wrapped around your upper arm and pulled you back.

“Running away when I just want to talk? Well, that’s kind of rude.” You breathed a sigh of relief when you recognized Simon’s voice and turned around glaring at him. “You scared the living shit out of me.” He just chuckled before gesturing in the direction of your apartment, his hand on the small of your back again. The protest died on the tip of your tongue as he fixed you with a look that told you he wouldn’t accept a ‘no’.

As soon as you closed the door behind yourself and Simon, you latched all the different locks, before you turned back to him. In the meantime, he had taken his coat and mask off and started to look around. Seeing him maskless wasn’t a first, so you weren’t surprised when you saw the scars. When he turned back, you could practically sense his frustration with what you called home. “You’re paying for this?” You hesitated because if you were honest, you weren’t for much longer. He seemed to read your thoughts as a frustrated sigh left his lips.

A little rougher than you expected, he grabbed your arm and dragged you to your bedroom, pushing you toward the bed until you were sitting on it. “Why haven’t you used the card yet?” A frown tugged at your face as you glanced up at him. “Because I didn’t need it, I have enough money for now, and-” The lie died on your tongue as he crossed the distance until he was towering over you. “Do not lie to me, okay?” You swallowed heavily at the edge of his voice but didn’t dare reply.

“I know you don’t have a single pound to your name.” You felt offended as you thought of the two pounds and 47 cents in your purse. “And I know that you have no job, trust me, I made sure of that.” He what? You pushed to your feet, glaring up at the man who was still towering over you. “You are why I haven’t heard back from a single job?” You poked his chest, trying not to show that you bent your finger a bit when it met the hard muscle hidden away under his dress shirt. “Why the fuck would you do that?” This time you used your whole palm to push him away. He took a step back, although you assumed it was just to humor you.

But as soon as you went to put your hands down, he grabbed your wrists. “Because you don’t listen. I told you, to focus on your studies. I told you to use the card. And you did neither. I saw you just a few days ago and yet I can tell that you’ve lost weight. I can tell that you’re not eating enough. Keep this up and I’ll put you over my lap and spank that attitude right out of you, understood?” You couldn’t tell if the last part was a threat or an invitation, but the memory of his wife pushed the excitement down as you pulled back. He let go, watching as you walked to the other side of the room.

“Look, I appreciate you looking out for me, but I am not your…your burden, okay? I know you’re a friend of my father, but I don’t want you to feel responsible for me? Because I’m not your responsibility. You-” You sighed before continuing. “You should go back to your wife.” You could see in Simon’s eyes that something clicked for him. He chuckled darkly, shaking his head while raking his hand through his blonde locks.

“Is that it? Why you’re throwing this…this temper tantrum? Because of my wife?” You glared at him, not wanting to answer. By then you knew he could look through your lies too easily, and if you were honest, yes, his wife was bothering you. You kept telling yourself that his attention, his - could you call it flirting - meant nothing, but it felt as if it meant something. Why would he do that if he had a wife?

While you were lost in thought, Simon apparently calmed down, as he slowly walked over to you, hands raised. “Look, my wife, she’s…fuck, how do I put this? She’s just for show. An alliance if you will. We are not in love, or anything. She actually prefers the company of the same gender if you understand what I’m trying to say.”

You stared, trying to read his expression, see if he was lying, but you could only see honesty. “Okay, even if, this is not…just…about you and your wife. I’m a grown woman and I want to make my own way in life. I don’t want to depend on you, or my father, I just…” Simon, by then, was close enough to gently cup your face. “I know. And I don’t want to treat you like a sugar babe or something like that, but I want to make sure that you’re okay. And you need help right now-” You rolled your eyes. “Not if someone hadn’t manipulated my hundreds of job applications.” He huffed, but you could sense a certain amount of amusement within that huff. “Fine. If your grades are good, I’m going to help you find a good job, okay?” You squinted at him, before nodding reluctantly.

“Good girl. Now, pack your stuff, I'm getting you out of this hell hole.” You were about to object, but one raise of his eyebrow stopped you and you did as you were told while trying to ignore the wet mess in your panties. I’m into dominance, good to know.

Next Part

A/N: ...I have no idea how half of this happened. This was certainly not planned, but the writing goddess or muse or whatever (or pure brain rot) took over and this happened...oops

@alilstressyandlotdepressy @brickwall035 @trampondemand @inarabee @blinca @rileys3dworld @msjaeger @oreojenni @starlightmoon2020 @piconico17 @l1lpip @originalsoulcollector @ig-you-idiot @corvusmorte @ohdrey89 @dreamland08 @dprmoon

[batsythoughts]

Because I had a dead car battery and had to change it yesterday, here is a fanfic based off the experience with Jason Todd!

Patrolling Gotham during a winter night wasn't something that Jason enjoyed to say the least. The only thing that made it bearable was getting to return to his warm bed in the apartment that he share with you.

Most days, he would be able to give you a quick peck on the cheek as you got ready for your early shift at work while be prepared to get a few hours of sleep. More often than not waking up to him cuddling your pillow.

This morning as he opened his eyes, he was greeted with you nestled in his hold. He blinked away the last bit of sleep in his eyes before opening his mouth. "Shouldn't you be at work by now?"

"My car wouldn't start," you informed him as you gently ran your hand up and down his arm. "And you looked so peaceful when I came back in, so I just called in for the day. I figured we could give it a jump start when you got a few hours of sleep."

Jason felt a grin tugging on the corners of his mouth. You were always so considerate of his basic needs and took the pressure of balancing both of his lives.

With one last deep breath, Jason pushed himself up and got out of bed. "Alright, let's get some warm clothes on and take care of your car."

Once the both of you were dressed in winter clothes and a pair of gloves, you both went to your car and began getting the jumper cables ready as Jason opened the hood.

After getting the cables grounded to the battery correctly, Jason spoke in a calm tone, "Okay, try turning it on."

The engine came to life for a few seconds before the shutting off. The second time you tried, it stayed on by itself. Jason removed the cables before going to the drivers side to look at you through the window.

"Okay, let it run for a couple minutes. Then we'll shut it off and make sure it can start up on its own."

Once the few minutes had passed, you shut the car off and tried again, only to be met the the telltale clicking of a dead battery.

Jason gave a huff before speaking in a calm voice, "Looks like you're getting a new battery. Pop the trunk so I can grab my tools and get it out of there and we can get this adventure started."

It took about 5 minutes for Jason to get the battery removed. After making sure the hood of your car was latched securely, the two of you began the journey to the auto shop a couple of blocks away.

Luckily, the sidewalks weren't too slick on the way there, something Jason was grateful for so he didn't have to worry about either of you falling on your face.

Once in the store, Jason went to the counter and began talking to the employee and checking to see if the type of battery your car needed was in stock. Which, luckily, it was because they just got a truck in the day before with the exact kind you needed.

After the cashier began ringing it up, you tried getting out one of your cards before Jason stopped you. "I got this, baby. Don't worry about it, okay?"

"Jason, it's for my car. I should cover be paying for it, not you. You've already done more than enough."

"Then it's a good thing I'm not technically paying for it." He smirked before inserting the card into the chip reader.

"Jason," you say with a tone akin to Alfred's when he's warning anyone to not mess with his cleaning of the manor, "did you steal Bruces' credit card again?"

"I didn't steal it," he defended himself while looking at you. "He gave it to be for a legitimate reason. We both just forgot that I didn't give it back to him."

"Jason, paying for this with his card without his knowledge is technically illegal!" You scold him with a look that Jason knew you were going to make him give back the card tonight.

"As long as it gets paid for, that's all that matters," the employee chimed in with a indifferent shrug. "I don't make enough money to really care about those technicalities."

With a small triumphant grin, Jason ushered you out of the store to begin the walk back to the apartment. But there was a stop at a diner on the way so you could buy lunch to say 'thank you'.

Jason took the keys from you so you could go inside and warm up while he put the new battery in. Once it was secured, he got in the car and turned the ignition. A small chuckle bubbling in his throat when it turned on with no issue.

When he got into your shared apartment, Jason was greeted with the sight of you setting up the take out at the table and putting a cup of hot chocolate in front of his spot.

"Oh, what did I do to deserve this?" He asked while placing a soft kiss on your forehead as you both sat down.

You smile while beginning to dig in. "Just wanted to appreciate you for being such a great boyfriend."

He smiled while taking a small sip of his drink before deciding to inquire, "You already messaged Bruce that I had his card?"

"Oh yeah," you said without hesitation. "I'll make it up to you with cuddles once we're done eating."

Jason gave a laugh while shaking his head as he continued eating. If this is what he got to come home to every day, he could deal with patrolling Gotham during the winter.

[sheepispink]

Food to feed the heart ᡣ𐭩ྀིྀི

ᡣ𐭩ྀིྀི relationships: simon riley x baker!reader

ᡣ𐭩ྀིྀི A/N: ello cuties i know i havent posted anything so take this before i post the next chapter (likely this weekend) because i also have exams next week which also means no chapter.. 😔

Part 1 | Prev | Next

A few days have passed since he had driven you back home from the farm, and you’re still a little flustered that you had fallen asleep so easily. It was embarrassing but thankfully he wasn't the one to wake you up; you’d probably pass out again if you opened your eyes to his skull mask in your face—no offense to him, of course. The truck jostled as he unpacked the car to take out all the fresh produce, clearly having no intentions of making you help. He handled it all with ease, feeling more like carrying a shopping bag than the heavy glass bottles of milk. “Simon?” Your voice has mumbled out sleepily, dragging your tired self around the side of the truck to watch as he lifted each crate. He had gone completely still at your words though, something shifting behind his eyes that were usually quite sharp, though it doesn't seem to be uncomfortable. That look alone flustered you and you immediately got to work despite his protests, hurrying to pack all the produce away.

You’ve long since closed the shop now, but you were preparing some dough as per usual. It was all you ever seemed to do these days, and even if more people were appreciating your bakes, you find yourself desperate for a new invention. Or well, at least somekind of new product in the shop. Somehow, your mind drifts back to your old train of thought that other day, what Simon would eat for lunch. You think he’d like something rich with flavour, considering how dry military food would be, but not spice—it doesn't look like he could handle that much anyway. Savoury seems to be his preference, even if he has tried a few of your sweeter options before. Don’t soldiers need lots of protein and carbs too? At least that’s what everyone says about building muscle, so you mentally jot those points down too. Your stomach rumbles as you see a notification from a cooking channel you follow, instantly clicking on it to see the thumbnail that is the most delicious tacos with their seasoned meat and vegetables. The video even showed pulled chicken tacos, but that’d seemed to be too messy for him to eat on the job— definitely a note for another day.

You hum as you lean against the counter, looking at the bread dough in the bowl before you. Pulled chicken sounded damn good especially for protein, you have bread already, and shredded vegetables would be easy to get…you're going to make the best damn meal he’ll have in his life.

——————————————————————

Sweat trickles down his back and soaks his shirt as he pants quietly, breaths eventually slowing down from his early morning run. The air is crisp, almost biting with how cold it is as December deepens. He doesn't particularly like how much his thoughts have shifted these days, always thinking about his next visit to his bakery rather than the rest of his schedule for the day. Damnit, just the mere sight of a teacup makes him think of your grin when you hand one to him. He’s convinced he’s starting to go insane.

The locker rooms are quiet at this time, and so he pulls off his top in one smooth motion before throwing in his laundry bag that he’ll handle later. His muscles flex as he stretches them a little, fishing out a fresh vest and shirt when his phone buzzes in his duffel bag. That’s unusual, no one really bothered texting him apart from his phone service provider or occasionally an app notification. Even Soap preferred to just hunt down the Lieutenant himself, knowing he barely ever checked his phone. But he does now, because now he’s got someone who has his number, and who actually wants to text him too. Your name and the silly picture you took on his phone flash up, and for once his thumb fumbles when he types his password in.

“Is there any chance i could potentially leave something for you at like.. a military gate.. post.. thing? You forgot something in the shop!”

He raises a brow at the message, knowing damn well he’s never been reckless enough to forget something that would be important as to be delivered to him at this time. If it really was something, surely it could wait until he inevitably saw you next week. At least, that’s what his rationale is telling him. He shouldn't breach work hours and go off and let you into the base, no he should just tell you that it isnt possible and he’ll handle it himself. He’d be damned if he ever let you drive your truck up here, carrying one of his things and delivering it to him personally. What if someone saw you? What if another soldier talked to you and you realised they’re the one you want to stay friends with and not him?”

At that he slams the locker door closed, letting out a deep breath and ignoring the way his face heats. It’s just because of the run, just because of the way his mask clings to his face. It’s really hot in here, yeah that’s it. This -2° air is boiling.

It’s almost lunch time now, and he walks down to the admin area where an intern, who is usually tasked with the mundane tasks like these, tells him there’s a girl waiting for him at the gate. He just gruffly nods, hands stuck in his pockets as he steps out of the building and where you stand on the other side of the barrier, awkwardly waiting with a little paper bag. He’s glad you’re wrapped up, a thick scarf practically engulfing your face and a wooly hat covering the hair he loves the look of. “Miss Lost and Found, is that your name now?” He hums, stepping towards you and you almost jump, not used to the physical skull mask he wears on base and rather the more tame chalk one. But his voice resonates instantly and you grin, tugging down your scarf to your chin. “I may have lied. I came bearing a delivery.”

Well he hadn't expected you to straight up lie to get your way, but he supposes it must be a good cause and so he takes the bag when you offer it to him, though not without taking your wrist too. “C’mon, let's get you warmed up inside.”

You’re not sure if you stick out like a sore thumb because of the thick jacket you wear compared to the camos sported around here, or due to the Lieutenant’s grip around your hand as he tugs you along. It must be a mix of both, assuming from the way the other soldiers look at Ghost and then you before scurrying off quickly. He eventually seats you opposite him in an office, letting you sit on the couch as he settles on the armchair. Though.. this office does not match him in the slightest. “Captain’s office, not mine.”

He hums, digging out the container out of the paperbag with curiosity along with a warm flask. “You didn't..” He grunts, eye flickering down at the food and then up to you, not quite sure just yet if the little lunchbox you brang is something he had somehow left behind in another life or you really had brought him lunch while he was working.

“I did. I wanted to thank you for all your help the other day” You grin, and he pulls off the lid, instantly caught in the delicious smell inside. Two large chicken stuffed buns right beside each other, practically still hot considering you cooked them this morning. Beneath is veggie sticks, ones you’d usually give to little kids, layered over seasoned rice in case he wasn't full on the buns already. And of course, would it really be you if you didn't give him a dessert? Of course, nothing too sweet, in fact you even went out of your way to make another off menu item for him… oops.

“Banana bread? Do you note down everything I say?” He likes the way your smile grows wider when he notices your efforts, taking care to remember that for later too. Though, he really is surprised you were paying that much attention to him. “You know I'm gonna devour this, righ’?”

Though you’re quickly cut off when the door bangs open, a noise common around here but not exactly for you since you unintentionally jump. It doesn't go unnoticed by Simon though, whose hand shoots out to protect before realising you had only jumped at the door and nothing actually serious. His hand says awkwardly hovering before you before he just picks some lint of your shoulder, quickly turning to the door instead. Is he going crazy or what? The cause of the noise was a bulky man who had almost as much muscle as the man in front of you, only shorter than him and the muscle was more evenly distributed.

“Lt, the fuckin’ rookies are at it again! This new batch are always fighting eachother!” He exclaims, walking over to the desk in the office to snatch a cookie out of a jar that easily blends into the rest of the furniture around. You stare at him as he bites into it, the crumbs falling onto his tactical gear before his head lifts to meet Simon’s, only to see you right in front of him. He raises a single brow at you, then chomps on a cookie a little more.

“Oh, is this one of ‘em? Lass doesn't even look terrified, have ye lost yer touch mate?” Ghost grunts as the man jests, and shakes his head before trying to move the lunchbox out of the man’s sight. “She’s not a soldier, Johnny.”

“Not a soldier eh? So.. CIA? One of Laswell’s right?”

“No”

”Medic?”

“No.”

“K9 Trainer?”

“No.”

”Damnit, Lt, yer killing me!”

‘Johnny’ groans as he steps around the desk, before promptly noticing the lunchbox that Ghost had failed to completely hide behind him. Though, that left even more questions unanswered. For starters, when has Ghost ever sat with someone for lunch?

“None of ya business who she is. I’ll deal with the rookies in five, just get ‘em rounded up, Soap.” Then he turns to you, wrapping the scarf that was tossed to the side back around your neck before he pulls you up by your hands. “And you need to get back home.”

“Do I really look like I could be in the CIA?” Soap snaps his gaze to you as your head tilts, in a way that’s far too friendly, towards Ghost though he only rolls his eyes up at you and huffs out a chuckle. “You couldn't even kill a fly.”

“I didn't want fly blood on me!”

You argue and Ghost turns to see the other soldier staring, so he grunts and closes the lid onto the lunchbox. Soap had just been through a series of emotions and confusion was an aspect of all of them. Ghost had just tucked a scarf around your neck, refused to give your identity to him and he was about to walk you back to wherever you came from. For once in his life, he stays silent as his Lieutenant leads you out, a hand on your back to guide you.

——————————————————————

After he walked you back to your car and made sure you knew your way out of the complex, he had spent the next half hour dealing with those damn rookies Soap groaned about. Finally, he was free now, the little blue lunch box in front of him, and lord was he starving. As he promised, he devoured everything you made him, even taking a moment to stop and savour the burst of flavour the shredded chicken had been coated in. It was more than good, it was like the takeout they only got every so often, like the drinks he’d share with his taskforce, or even the sigh that gets let out when everyone comes back unscathed from a mission. It was comforting and warm, a promise of safety and he’d be damned if he never got to try this cooking ever again. So, he savours each bite, every drop of tea in the flask until it’s empty. He’ll scrub the container clean for you, grab you a box of chocolates even if it was meant as a thnak you. And he’d be back in that bakery, as soon as he could.

———————————————————————

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Taglist:

@hidden-treasures21 @bieberismysoulmate @gallantys @tessakate @galactict3a @krispymagazinepizza-blog

[shivayagojo]

PORSCHE'S GIRL part 2 | F1

masterlist

fia

NEW QUALIFYING RULES: THE BOTTOM 6 DRIVERS WILL BE ELIMINATED FROM Q1 AND Q2. Q3 WILL CONTINUE TO REMAIN THE TOP 10 DRIVERS.

f1

Old Drivers, New Teams. Old Teams, New Drivers. The stage is set for the qualifying in Melbourne. Who will take the first pole position in 2025?

tagged: lewishamilton, carlozsainz, avaflorence

see comments below

batteryacid: Florence's whole winter aesthetic in the Aussie heat is a MOOD

> foksmash: the lack of PR training be hittin' different

> aussie: Gives me Oscar vibes. no f's given.

lewis44: Man, seeing Lewis in red still does not feel right

> totosfav: Ikr!! I was looking at that Ferrari in FP3 was like that's Carlos Sainz- nope, Hamilton.

> plottwist: Manifesting a Ferrari 1-2 today!!

chuckleclerc: Lowkey excited to see how Hamilton and Leclerc gonna shake things up this season 👀🔥

> carbuff: Ferrari's about to serve some serious looks with that darker red livery

f1memes: Carlos getting pole here after getting sacked by Ferrari would be the funniest thing

> sainzstan: praying Sainz coming for that championship with THAT energy 👑

> fastlane: Guys, he's in a Williams. I love him, but please 🙏

Porsche F1: Ava Florence

Admin: Before we head off to your first Grand Prix, the fans want to get to know you a bit better. So let's introduce you to Australia. Firstly, what's your name and what team do you drive for?

"My name is Ava Florence and I drive for Porsche Penske... ah sh** its Martini right? Damn. Porsche Martini Motorsport Racing."

Admin: The F.I.A might penalize you for swearing.

"Ah I won't show up to community service anyway. Unless he did. If he did, I want pictures please."

Admin: What track are you looking most forward to?

"Spa. Literally grew up five minutes away from it. If I don't win there, I might cry. Suzuka would be cool too. Another home race."

Admin: Who was your racing idol?

"Dunno. Never had one. Of course I watched Vettel and Hamilton and Alonso when I was younger, but never really had someone I wanted to be like. The closest... Michele Mouton. She's amazing."

Admin: What's your relationship with Sebastian and Daniel?

"I love them. Seb is kinda like father. And Danny is big brother. Though I think I'm the smarter one... don't tell him that."

Daniel (Off-Camera): You're welcome!

"And he's flipping me off. Love you Danny!"

Admin: Lastly, what's are you looking to accomplish in your first Grand Prix.

"Win."

AUSTRALIA GRAND PRIX: Once again, Melbourne will host the opening round to a Formula 1 season and the excitement is high. McLaren are looking to capitalize on their massive improvements from last season, defending their crown. Red Bull fell off a cliff at the end of 2024, but they still think they can put a fight with their new driver line up. Ferrari has the most hype around them as they've signed Sir Lewis Hamilton, while Mercedes will try to pick up the pieces after Hamilton left.

         Q1 was a heated session and you could've sworn that this was 2023 all over again. Max Verstappen goes fastest, setting a 1:16.643. Only two other drivers cracked into the one minute sixteen margins. Lando followed Verstappen with a 1:16.720, but Charles narrowly took that second spot with 1:26.715. Both Mercedes out high performances in 1:17 and Lewis Hamilton set the fastest of that bunch of 1:17.062, landing him P4 in the first session. Porsche's were the dark horses, setting times for P5 and P7.

          AVA ROLLED INTO the pit lane, her voice teething on the radio:

FLORENCE I have no pace on the straights. Sector 2 is a joke.

HENRY Understood, Ava. Bring the car into the pits, we'll have a look at the front wing.

FLORENCE Where's Seb?

HENRY He's 5th at the moment. He's running a different set up than you.

THUS the issues began with every new team. Sebastian got the "preferred" set-up, a high suspension to increase speed on the straights and allow him to pick up time during qualifying. But Ava had done it before. She's raced with terrible setups and she's always found a way through... and F1 was her dream. If she was gonna be with Porsche, she was gonna have driving done the beautiful way.

          Q2 was a mixed batch of drivers on top. Verstappen fell off his dominance, but he managed to stay in for the next round at P8. Lando once again topped the timing sheets, but Oscar and Leclerc were catching up, Oscar now cracking into the 1:16 times. Hamilton also managed to break in, but still couldn't manage to stick himself in the top 3. It was Sebastian turn to fall to P9 after fumbling Turn 1 and Turn 3 of his laps. Ava settled herself behind the 7x champion in fifth. Coming into the pits, she remained quiet. She hated every second right now. Sure, fifth was a great start to her first EVER F1 race, but she had to fight the car through every corner to get it to where it was. For that effort, she felt she deserved more. She put on footage from Lando's qualifying lap and waited for the final session to begin.

          LECLERC HAS GONE OFF — he spun is car around in Turn 1 and sent it straight to the gravel, failing to set a time for the final session. This was Lando's chance. With competition from Charles gone, he easily snatched the top timings, but Oscar was there; first sector, green, second sector, yellow, third sector - hard brake, attacking the apex, carrying that momentum into the final chicane - purple. But was it enough?

Oscar Piastri : +.097

OSCAR WAS DEVASTED. P2was a great lap, but to know he was only nine hundreds off pole in his home Grand Prix hurt. However, that wasn't the only salt to his wound.

"We ride on board with Ava Florence as she's about to begin her lap. Martin, why don't you give us some insight."

"Certainly, Crofty. She's just gonna come up on the final corner and activate the DRS and down she goes for her lap. Picks up speed to 8th gear, breaks at the 100 meter mark, down to third, hits the apex, up to fifth. Late braking into Turn 3, a little too late, bad exit off the corner. Nicely hugs the apex into Turn 4 and flat out for Turn 5. Faster than her pedal best by a tenth."

"Now, Ava Florence, that is, the Porsche driver. She was complaining about the bad speeds on the straights. We can see that right here on Turn 5."

"Absolutely, and she's gonna have to make up as much as she can in the corners.. here, she crosses the DRS detection zone, it's a yellow second sector. Turn 9, a hard braking zone, she angles her car beautifully, attacking the apex, but being cautious on the curbs. She carries that momentum into Turn 10 - just look at how fast she is in those corners. DRS Zone now... down to third gear, wide entry into Turn 11, just what she needs and she stays smooth on the throttle in Turn 22. Back into third gear for Turn 14 and beautiful exit out of Turn 14 as she hits the DRS."

"And it will be Ava Florence who will take P2 away from Oscar Piastri. She goes purple on the final sector."

"Unbelievable final sector from that rookie. Like you said Crofty, having to fight that car all day and certainly not an easy afternoon for the lady, but she's made it work. As here comes here teammate Sebastian Vettel climbing up to P6."

HENRY That is P2 for tomorrow. P2. Well done, Ava.

FLORENCE YES! Oh I hated this qualifying so much, but happy with this result. What's an Aussie thing I can say for the fans?

f1

The eyes of our top three in qualifying. Time to hit the grid hard on Sunday. 👊

tagged: lando, avaflorence, oscarpiastri

see comments below

delulu4ferrari: Another year, another season where Ferrari plays with my heart.

> chuckleclerc: Charles going on in Q3 gave me France PTSD.

teamLH: How did Lewis not manage to get a single top 3 placement in any session?? Rigged!

> lululemoncalled: Hear me out... maybe he's new to the team?? Just saying.

> oscarpastry: Only TeamLH and Mad Max fans can look at a P4 qualifying and say it was rigged against them.

florence4ever: No hate to Seb, but they gave mama the worse setup and she cooked.

> delusion: How many letters in Formula 1?

visacashapptookmymoney: Piastri fans, how we feeling?

> pawastri: chill

> piastri_leclerc: dead

> leos.brother: trynna stay sane

2025 Australian Starting Grid

Lando Norris

Ava Florence

Oscar Piastri

Lewis Hamilton

George Russell

Max Verstappen

Sebastian Vettel

Nico Hulkenberg

Andrea Kimi Antonelli

Charles Leclerc

Gabriel Bortoleto

Carlos Sainz

Liam Lawson

Fernando Alonso

Yuki Tsunoda

Esteban Ocon

Ollie Bearman

Lance Stroll

Alexander Albon

Pierre Gasly

Isack Hadjar

Jack Doohan

porschef1

View from the top of Australia is so good you can see Stuttgart from here.

tagged: avaflorence, sebsatianvettel

see comments below

vettel_forever: Sebastian P7 to podium, calling it now! 🏆

> florence4ever: Porsche 1-2 from day one 💯

racingnews24: Audi: "We're joining F1!" Porsche: "Hold my beer" 🍻

> f1_memer: The German Civil War continues

> delulu: Out qualified both Audi's and Ava had the worse set up. Queen shit.

audif1: Enjoy the view while it lasts. See you on race day.

> hulk: Get Nico a podium and then talk!

> shoey4ricc: I want Hulkenberg on the podium so badly, but Audi kinda dug themselves a grave by doing all this.

SUNDAY CAME FAST, and the grid was lined up for the 2025 Formula 1 season. The nerves and expectations were on everyone. Lando couldn't manage to dethrone Max in 2024, but everyone said he can do it this year. He had the fast car, he had the pole position, and all he needed was to maintain it. But Ava was right behind. Rookie or not,  she stole P2 from the second McLaren, arguably the fastest car on the grid right now. Speaking of him, Oscar wanted this race win badly. Every driver dreams of winning a Grand Prix, but many dream of winning their home race. This race was crucial for Oscar, not just for the championship, but for his pride.

          NEXT YEAR IS OUR YEAR was Ferrari's slogan for the past 17 years. This year had to be the year though. They had two mega-star drivers. They invested everything into Leclerc. They invested everything into Hamilton. They were just a millimeter away last year. They want to a mile ahead this year.

"Welcome along to the first round of 2025 Formula 1 Season. We are in Melbourne, Australia at the beautiful Albert Park circuit to kick off the start of what is surely going to be a spectacular season. We've got 58 laps ahead of his round, a 3.28 mile circuit and the lap record, set by Charles Leclerc in 2024. 4 DRS zones here, more than any other circuit, around 14 corners. Let's take a look at our grid."

"It was a wild qualifying this year, like it is every year. The lap record holder spun off in Q3, landing him 10th on the grid. But if any driver can make a comeback, it is him. Drivers to watch out for - obviously, we have the pole sitter, Lando Norris. He's been on fire all weekend. Can he finish the job today?"

"We'll certain see, Martin, but the driver behind him isn't going make it easy. Ava Florence, the rookie for Porsche, stunned everyone yesterday. She'll sits P2, only seven hundredths off Norris' time."

HENRY Okay, Ava. Don't worry too much about your start. Our goal is to make these tires last longer than the competition.

"And that Ava certainly will do. She starts on soft tires for the Grand Prix, but she's running a higher suspension than the rest of the top 10, so she might be out on the track for a long time before she comes into the pits. The question is: was that the right call?"

"Only time will tell, Martin, but now the drivers finish up their formation lap... IT'S LIGHTS OUT AND AWAY WE GO! Immediately, Ava gets a good jump, she's right on Lando, Max in the back passes on Russel as we head down to the first corner AND AVA GETS TO THE APEX FIRST, SHE LEADS IN, AND SHE TAKES THE POSITION. Once again, Lando Norris will not get to the first corner from pole in pole. Oscar right behind Lando, can't get away-

"The Williams just hit the Aston Martin. Who is it? Debris is going everywhere. Pierre Gasly gets through the disaster, but that's... that's Albon and Stroll there. Stroll's car is beached on the gravel."

"Up ahead, Ava continues her lead into Turn 5 heading for end of the first sector. Behind is Lando, Oscar, Hamilton, Verstappen, Vettel, Russell, Hulkenberg, Antonelli, and Leclerc to round out the top ten.

"We saw Verstappen pass Russell at the start, but looks like Vettel passed him too. He's put into sixth. Let's have a look at crash. Albon is still racing, but car is limping on the road. He's desperately trying to get to the pits. But Stroll... Yeah, he's getting out of the car. Lance Stroll is out of the race. So, first corner, first lap, and we already have our first retirement of 2025."

"Such a shame, especially with Newey entering the Aston department to help them with their new 2026 Honda engine deal. Not the start Aston Martin wanted for their first race. But at least Alonso is still in the race, he's climbed up two places into P12. And here as he are about to finish up the first lap, Ava is still the driver leading into Turns 13 and 14. The gap to Lando has extended, but not to Oscar. The Australian staring at his teammates rear wing. No DRS yet, but in due time, he just might be able to get ahead of Lando."

Lap 3:

TURN 1 - LAW overtakes SAI on the inside lane, sweeping in to take P13

TURN 8 - LEC passes ANT on the outside to take P9

Lap 6:

AVA FLORENCE SETS FASTEST LAP : LEAD +1.350

LAP 9:

TURN 7 -  PIA passes NOR on the inside to take P2

OSCAR PIASTRI SETS FASTED LAP : GAP TO P1 +3.545

LAP 10 - 12:

WHEEL-TO-WHEEL BATTLE:

"Max Verstappen closes the gap with DRS. He's right on Hamilton's gearbox. He makes the lunge into Turn 1 on the inside. But Hamilton just holds on to the position. Verstappen and Hamilton, wheel to once again. They've shown thrilling battles before, but they've also know some jaw-dropping incidents. Verstappen makes the move on the outside. Can he make it stick? They're so close into Turn 4. Verstappen has to back off. Hamilton, defending that P4 with all his might."

"Back into the opening straight and DRS with Verstappen. He makes the lunge once again. He is denied once again. Hamilton continues to defend the position. Up ahead, Florence extends her lead to four seconds. And behind, Leclerc passes Hulkenberg. But all eyes are on these two. Who's going to come out on top?"

HENRY Hamilton and Verstappen are occupied with one another. We're happy to pit now. Your choice.

FLORENCE I think I can extend this stint.

"For the third straight time, Verstappen tries it on the inside line. This time, he gets it to stick, just a sliver ahead of Hamilton. And that is all the space Verstappen needed to get ahead in P4. Behind, Sebastian Vettel has caught up with the two. From fighting one 4x time Red Bull champion to another."

LAP 14:

AVA PIT STOP : 3.1 SECONDS | P6

TURN 5 - LEC passes RUS to take P7

LAP 16:

AVA FLORENCE SETS FASTEST LAP : GAP TO P1 +12.345

TURN 9 - ALO makes a clean pass on ANT for P10

LAP 20:

TURN 3 - BOR overtakes HUL on the outside to claim P9

TURN 7 - SAI and LAW engage in a brief battle, with SAI maintaining P13

LAP 25:

AVA FLORENCE PIT STOP : 2.8 SECONDS | P4 

"Ava Florence emerges from the pits in P4, right behind George Russell. And She's immediately looking for the attack, looking for a way past the British driver. She tries to make a move on the inside of Turn 1, but Russell aggressively defends that position. Not much she could do there.

"Turn 1, and Florence fancies her chances on the inside, but Russell's having none of it. He's defending like his life depends on it! Through the next corner, it's anybody's guess who'll come out on top. They're so close you couldn't slip a piece of paper between them!"

"And now, Turn 3, Florence bravely goes for the outside line. It's a bold move, but- OH MY GOODNESS! CONTACT BETWEEN RUSSELL AND FLORENCE! SHE'S OFF THE TRACK! What drama we're seeing here, ladies and gentlemen!"

RUSSELL Nothing I could do. I had no space.

FLORENCE Someone tell this f***** that he's not Hamilton at Mercedes.

HENRY Any damage?

FLORENCE No damage. Just trying to say sane. What's Russell saying?

HENRY Russell is reporting front wing damage.

FLORENCE Karma!

"She doesn't so happy, does she, Crofty? That was quite a rip on Russell. But the Stewards will be looking into that incident and surely, that's a penalty for Russell. He was on the inside lane, Florence gave him plenty of room. No need for him to push her off the track like that."

"He will see the result of that penalty indeed, but right now Florence has lost crucial time and position. She's rejoined right behind Gabriel Bortoleto."

"I will say. Gabriel Bortoleto, the driver from out of Brazil, has done phenomenally well in his first race. I think we knew had talent, but were wondering what to make off it since he was starting in Sauber. But then Audi announced they would the join the early. And look at how its played out."

"Indeed, it's gone great for the team. Of course, the team they were directly responding to is right behind him."

LAP 28:

TURN 1 - VET makes a daring move on HAM, briefly taking P4 before HAM reclaims it in Turn 2

LAP 30:

"AND HERE WE GO! It's an absolute THRILLER between Florence and Bortoleto battling for P5! OH MY GOODNESS, WHAT A FIGHT WE'RE SEEING!"

"Look at the precision, the commitment from both drivers. Both sides are respecting the space for the other drivers, but neither side is giving up any sort of room. It's strange how that works, but that's an F3 and F2 champion fighting right here. Florence is showing tremendous tactical awareness ."

"INTO TURN 3 - BORTOLETO DEFENDS! HE'S HOLDING THE RACING LINE! BUT WAIT - FLORENCE ISN'T BACKING DOWN! SWITCH TO THE INSIDE FOR TURN 4 - SHE'S DONE IT! FLORENCE MAKES THE MOVE STICK! LIGHTS OUT AND AWAY SHE GOES! WHAT A MAGNIFICENT PIECE OF RACING!"

"Brilliant overtake. That's the kind of move that separates good drivers from great drivers. Clean, calculated, and absolutely decisive. Many said that if Florence continued to race in F2, she'd give Bortoleto a run for the title. And this right here shows it."

LAP 35:

LANDO NORRIS PIT STOP : 2.7 SECONDS | P4

LEWIS HAMILTON PIT STOP : 3.6 SECONDS | P6

AVA FLORENCE MOVES UP TO P2

LAP 40:

TURN 9 - ANT and HUL battle for P10, with ANT holding on by mere tenths

LAP 48:

"Florence has been relentlessly chasing down Piastri. Look at that - she's right on his gearbox, the gap closing down faster than a pit stop. Florence goes for the inside, but Piastri - what a defensive move! He covers it off brilliantly."

"Piastri has made a big jump in his defensive ability. We saw him defend Hamilton on the start and he's doing a beautiful job here."

"She's not giving up yet. She feints to the outside... cuts back to the inside. They're side-by-side through Turn 1, neither driver willing to give an inch! This is wheel-to-wheel racing at its absolute finest!"

"Piastri has the inside line for Turn 2, but Florence is hanging in there."

LAP 49:

TURN 3 - LEC makes a bold move on NOR, taking P4

TURN 8 - BOR defends P8 from a charging ALO

LAP 50:

"Florence has been calculatingher next move for laps. When will she unleash? Oscar Piastri is waiting, ready to defend. Look at this - she gets a phenomenal exit out of the final corner, using that slipstream down the main straight DRS wide open, and she's pulling alongside Piastri - they're NECK AND NECK into Turn 1! Florence brakes later, takes the inside line, and MAKES THE PASS STICK! WHAT A MOVE!"

"Absolutely spectacular, Crofty. That's how you make a race-defining move! She knew she had slipstream, she knew exactly the kind of space Piastri was going to give her and she took advantage of it. Brilliant. Brilliant racing."

LAP 52:

TURN 3 - LEC overtakes HAM, taking P3

LAP 58:

"Ava Florence hasn't been in Formula 1 for long, but she's already made history. The first female driver on the grid since Giovanna Amati in 1992. She will become the 9th driver to stand on the podium in their first race. And the second driver since Giancarlo Baghetti in 1961 to win their first ever Formula 1 Race. AVA FLORENCE WINS THE AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX!"

HENRY Congratulations, Ava! You've freaking done it!

FLORENCE OH MY GOD!! SIGN THIS, TAT IT, STICK ON A NOTE AND PUT IT ON MY HELMET! I DON'T CARE! I JUST WON IT!!

RUDI Okay, that's P7, Seb. Good job. Welcome back to the grid.

VETTEL Yeah, a little rusty. But amazing feeling. Thank you guys

RUDI And Ava won the race, by the way.

VETTEL Hah, really? Amazing. Gute Arbeit!

AUSTRALIA GRAND PRIX RESULTS

1. AVA FLORENCE (+25)

2. OSCAR PIASTRI (+18)

3. CHARLES LECLERC (+15)

4. LEWIS HAMILTON (+12)

5. LANDO NORRIS (+10)

6. MAX VERSTAPPEN (+8)

7. SEBASTIAN VETTEL (+6)

8. GABRIEL BORTOLETO (+4)

9. FERNANDO ALONSO (+2)

10. GEORGE RUSSELL (+1)

11. ANDREA KIMI ANTONELLI

12. NICO HULKENBERG

13. LIAM LAWSON

14. CARLOS SAINZ

15. YUKI TSUNODA

16. OLLIE BEARMAN

17. ESTABAN OCON

18. PIERRE GASLY

19. ISACK HADJAR

20. JACK DOOHAN

21. ALEXANDER ALBON [DNF]

22. LANCE STROLL [DNF] f1

SIGN THIS, TAT IT, STICK ON A NOTE AND PUT IT ON HER HELMET! WE DON'T CARE! AVA FLORENCE WINS THE AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX!

tagged: avaflorence

see comments below

f1_memer: Audi watching this like 👀

> totosheadphones: Absolutely cooked Bortoleto in the race 🔥

madmax: That's how you make an entrance in F1! Welcome, Porsche!

racing_queen: George's front wing is probably still shaking from that incident

> chuckleclerc: inchident

boomerhumor: George "He turned into me" Russell strikes again😅 What a race!

florence4ever: Ava probably some of the best radio messages here: "someone tell him he's not Hamilton at Mercedes" 😭

> goatifi: She stole Fernando's "KARMA" 💀

AUSTRALIA POST-RACE INTERVIEW

Interviewer: Congratulation, Ava. Your first race in F1 and already a win in your bag.

Ava: Hello~ How are you? Thank you so much. You look fantastic.

Interview: I think you look better than me.

Ava: Oh shut up. Tell me where you got that dress from. I need to grab something before I leave the land down under.

Interview: I'll let you know after this. Tell us, what are your emotions on your win? Guide us through this race.

Ava: Yeah, I mean... To be honest, even though I was P2, I thought a win was far away. You know, we ran a bad setup on the car. I struggled in qualifying to even get into some of the sessions but you know, we got P2 in the end. And so then I had to convert that to something in the race. Norris I saw had a slow reaction on the start, so I took the opportunity to get past him into turn one and then from there 1st put stop, you know, pretty good. But then the 2nd pit stop... came out right behind Russell. I thought, you know, I could go for this overtake And, he thought to be an idiot and turned into me when I was on the outside. So I don't know what happened there. I'm not complaining with the end result, but definitely was complaining on that one. Then I had a little fight with Gabriel. I got past him. Norris went into the pits, gave me the second position that I needed. And on Piastri, I was just waiting for DRS to kick in. And I knew that was going to be my opportunity and I got it.

Interview: So, Oscar, you were very close to winning your home Grand Prix. What are you feeling here?

Oscar: Yeah, tough. I was leading for a while. Confident I could get the race win. And then Ava came behind me and it was tough to keep her away. P2 is a strong position. Helps me, helps the team. But I definitely wished I got first.

Interview: Charles, after that spin in Q3, you started 10th on the grid. You worked your way up to the podium. How was it?

Charles: It was good. The car had pace. Obviously, not as much as we wanted, but I made some good overtakes. We had a solid strategy. By the time, I passed Lewis, the McLarens were too far ahead. Overall, strong result for the team. We'll look into the data to see where we can improve because we're definitely faster than what was shown today.

HOWEVER, all that aside, the fans of F1 wanted to know one thing and one thing only. What did the drivers think of Ava Florence? She was the first point scoring woman in F1 history. The first race-winning woman in F1 history.

Oscar: She's very quick. She's a tough racer. It was very hard to defend against her. She's pretty relentless.

Lando: She's crazy good. I mean, first race, first win. You don't just do that randomly. So, she's proven herself.

Charles: I think the race showed it. She has the pace and the racecraft to compete with the best. Very strong qualifier. Strong pace. Not many flaws I would saw. For a rookie, that's incredible.

Lewis: It's amazing to see her race. Not only is she crazy fast, but she's representing women out there in motorsport. You know, when I was growing up, there wasn't any driver that I could look to and say, "He's like me." I got the opportunity to be that kind of driver for others. And I'm sure she's now going to be a huge inspiration for women all over the world. Major props to her.

Max: She's fast. I mean, that's the basis of what you need to compete. And she has it.

Sebastian: Ava is an incredible racer. Porsche has a lot of trust in her and for good reason. She's a strong driver, and a strong person too. She doesn't let the comments get to her. And her character is one of the best out there. Happy for her. Congrats on the race win. Hopefully, many more will come.

Gabriel: The same as before. Competing against her in F3 was definitely one of the most challenging moments of my life. And now we're both on the highest level of racing. Yeah, that's it. She's fast. She's tough. She's great.

Fernando: Fantastic performance. She definitely stands out and she has great race pace, great awareness, overall just fantastic for motorsport as a whole. I don't really care if she's a woman or not. She's got the speed to compete with everyone else.

George: I think, for a rookie, it's a impressive performance. But you're going to have the rookie mistakes that everyone makes. You know, a lot of them are overly ambitious.

Carlos: She's great. Very good race she had today. Happy to see representation on the grid. I hope the best for her.

avaflorence

Australia, whatever you were, I hate you and I love you. First race, first win. Thank you. And I seriously recommend some eyewear for some of these drivers.

see comments below

f1_fanatic92: Love-hate relationships are the best! Congrats on your first win, Ava! 🏆💖

> throughgoeshamilton: "Love-hate relationships are the best." Serious question, are you okay?

ausgp: Come back next year and maybe you're mind will change 😉

motorsport_daily: "I hate you and I love you" - the perfect description of F1!

> delulu: average ferrari fan

landonorris: Congrats... I guess

> avaflorence: No need to be salty honey. Australia is already surrounded by an ocean.

> florence4ever: 😭😭

vettel_forever: First race, first win, and already throwing shade?

> team44: Rusell was fuming in the post-race interview 💀

> hamland: Bro def saw her radio message. He's cooked.

alldatime: She stole Fernando's "yoke", "karma," and his celebration. El Padre 2.0?

> avaflorence: El Madre ❤️

porschef1

We kept the receipts. Double points finish in Australia.

tagged: avaflorence, sebastianvettel

see comments below

lululemoncalled: Someone check in on Audi. I don't think they're doing so well.

delulu: Ava was fighting with the McLarens and Hulkenberg was struggling with Antonelli 💀

vettel_forever: Schumacher 🤝 Vettel joining a German based team after retirement

> schumi: Bro was really copying his idol to the max.

audif1: See you in China.

> porschef1: 🧾

WORLD DRIVERS CHAMPIONSHIP

WORLD CONSTRUCTOR CHAMPIONSHIP

[witherby]

Heyyyyy *leans on expensive car* what are you cooking up for the next mer!reader part?😌

-🌭

Heyyy hotdog 😏 ur about to see it babycakes

Human!Damian x Mer!Reader

Part 8

Masterlist is Here!

It's a very grueling two days of monitoring for you in the med bay. You're kept sedated on a wet gurney so you can be examined for wounds, but there's nothing physically wrong with you. They poke and prod you, take your blood, and run test after test after test to see what could've made you turn so bad so quickly, but those results run clean too.

It's a psychosomatic effect, then. Something is distressing you so much that your body is responding to your mental state. When asked about it, Bruce just rubs his face exhaustedly asks the team to make a new care plan that involves Damian's involvement as much as possible.

When you're deemed healthy enough to return to your tank, they wean you off sedation and carefully deposit you back into the water with a special health monitoring cuff on your wrist.

While you were gone, your castle spire had the top half turned into a removable hideaway in case you got stuck again; it now clicks on and off from the bottom half, a little like a Lego, for your safety.

It takes you a day to fully shake the medicine off, so you spend most of it in a weird daze, but when full alertness returns to you, you pick at the bracelet a while, then tiredly float to the surface to receive breakfast from Jon. And Jon is there like normal, sitting on the lip of the tank with a smile, but he's not the one holding your bucket.

It's Damian.

Damian, who looks at you with wide eyes, like he can't believe you're here and you might vanish if he blinks. Damian, who stands there and stares like you're the most fascinating thing he's ever seen. Damian, who looks just as anxious as you feel. The bucket in his hands is trembling minutely.

It's Damian. He's here. He's here. He's here.

He just stares. You don't know what to do except stare back, locking onto those brilliant, emerald eyes you practically begged to see for weeks. The sudden, unadulterated attention from him makes something twist inside you, and you don't know if it's positive or negative.

Jon clears his throat and quietly calls your name. You glance at him.

"Feeling up for a meal? I've got a couple puzzles, too, if you want them. If you're still woozy from the meds, then that's okay too."

Damian seems to pull himself together and finally offers you the bucket. You hesitate just a moment more, then reach out and take it. The tips of your fingers just barely graze his.

You hold the food to your chest, staring at him. Damian stares back. A muscle in his jaw jumps, and he opens his mouth like he's about to speak.

You quickly turn away and drift a few feet from the tank's edge, starting to eat. His stuttered gasp tells you the message was well-received.

Jon sucks in a sympathetic breath through his teeth, reaching out and squeezing Damian's forearm. "Give 'em time," he whispers. "You've been away a while, y'know? I'd probably feel a little abandoned, too."

"It wasn't on purpose," Damian mutters, eyes burning. He fights it down, refusing to cry when there is nothing to cry about. His old position as primary caretaker was reinstated (albeit, Jon is secondary caretaker, now, but he'll take what he can get), he's no longer barred from seeing you, and he's got another chance to fix this companionship. He just needs you to give him the ability to act on this chance.

He needs to earn your trust again. He can do that. He will do that, no matter the cost.

--

You're not up for playtime that day, or the day after. When either one of your caretakers mentions getting into a wetsuit, you react unenthusiastically, so they stay out of the tank to respect your wishes.

Damian is visibly distressed by your refusal to engage with him. He uses your name, he offers you toys and treats, and only tries to call you Princess once before you release a low, threatening warble, and does not try again. If he was so upset by being ignored, then fair is fair. Maybe he shouldn't have done it to you. Prick.

The stinging in your chest at the sight of him doesn't get any better, but it also doesn't get any worse. According to your vitals you're stabilizing, but the beautiful florescence of your tail hasn't quite been restored ever since that fateful incident with Bruce pulling Damian away. The missing patches of scales have regrown by now, but your entire color palette seems overall paler. Less enthused and iridescent. Almost defeated, like you've settled into a life of complacency.

The routine adjusts, and you with it. You quietly accept food at mealtimes and half-heartedly engage with toys. During the tours, you go through the motions of swimming idly around and doing basic loops. You no longer press your body against the glass to stare at and admire all the guests. You no longer steal the buckets to make your caretakers dive in and retrieve them. You no longer chirp or chitter or trill.

It's killing Damian, the guilt threatening to swallow him whole. He's tried everything to get you back to how you used to be — old games, sitting and talking to you, even getting into the water to try and play hide and seek — but you are absolutely not interested. Nothing is working.

And when nothing works, he goes back to the basics. He reenters Bruce's office and takes out your files; he pours through them all, page by page, paragraph by paragraph, to scrape together any fleeting idea of how to bring your incredible spark back.

He's flipping through some documents detailing behavior in wild Mer pods when he finds his answer, and he knows what he needs to do.

Damian asks for an hour to speak to his dad. There's an entire myriad of questions thrown at him, most he can answer and some he can't. There's almost shouting, but Bruce manages to cool them both down again. There's a lot of negotiating, a lot of it, but finally, finally, he gets the green light. He leaves his father's office feeling more confident about you than he has in weeks, and it shows.

The following morning, when you drift to the surface to get breakfast, Jon is there with the bucket, and Damian is there with a rock. It's a small thing, barely the size of your palm, but it's beautifully painted. It's not one of the rocks you've had before, meaning he's not re-gifting you something you gifted him.

It's something he made. For you. He made a gift for you.

"Good morning," Damian says, and your eyes snap to his. "I've brought you this. I want...I wanted to express my..."

He sighs, brow furrowing. You tread the water patiently.

"I am sorry," he finally says. "I'm sorry I allowed my father to separate me from you. I'm sorry I started acting like you didn't exist. I was so angry to see Jon replace me that I feared you would not need me anymore."

Your expression doesn't change. Damian swallows thickly.

"Maybe my phrasing is poor. I don't want you to need me. I simply...I care about you a lot. And I did not think you cared as much, so I took to ignoring you almost entirely. But I thought about you all the time. I wondered if these imbeciles were cleaning your tank properly, or remembered that you don't like red snapper when they feed you, or if anyone was playing with you enough."

Damian inches a little closer to the edge of your tank. He holds the rock out to you. His hands are shaking.

"You don't trust me anymore. That's understandable, and a very logical move on your part. But I want to earn it back. I want to prove to you that I'm here to stay this time."

He leans over the edge a bit, eyes locked onto your own.

"I will do whatever it takes to ensure you don't feel alone again."

You pull your gaze away from his and move closer to examine the rock. The bright, rich colors and intricate patterns painted into it make something ease up in your chest. You feel like you can breathe just a little bit easier.

Your hands emerge from the water, rivulets trailing down your palms and wrists, and gently take the stone from him.

Damian's entire body relaxes, relief making a smile appear on his face.

It promptly vanishes, replaced by indignant sputtering when you spit a bunch of water at him. He coughs and wipes his face, then blinks to find you swimming to the bottom of your tank to find the best place to stick your present. You're moving so much faster, so much more energetically than you were before.

"There you are, Princess," Damian whispers into the water, grinning wide.

"...are they gonna come back up and eat?" Jon asks, still sitting with the bucket. "Cause...we can't re-refridgerate this with the other food. It'll have to get tossed."

[scrollonso]

Cinnamon — Strollonso (2) (prev)

After hours of enduring his friends' teasing and half-hearted attempts at studying, Lance finally found an excuse to slip away. The air outside the study hall was cool and crisp, a welcome relief from the stuffy room. He shoved his hands into his MIT-branded jacket pockets and took a deep breath, his mind swirling with thoughts of Fernando — though they should've been swirling with thoughts of his meche final project due by the end of the month.

He hadn’t even made it halfway down the dimly lit corridor when he spotted him.

Fernando was leaned casually against the wall, phone in hand as his bag of teaching supplies at his feet, as though he’d been waiting there all along. His dark eyes sparkled with amusement when they locked on Lance.

“Studying hard?” Fernando asked, his voice low and smooth, sending a shiver down Lance’s spine.

Lance stopped in his tracks, his heart pounding. “You could say that.”

Fernando pushed off the wall, walking toward him with slow, deliberate steps. Lance’s pulse quickened with every step Fernando took. There was something about the way he moved — confident, sure of himself — that made it impossible to look away.

“Didn’t expect to see you here,” Lance murmured, his voice quieter than he intended. "I figured professors went home pretty early."

“I was hoping to run into you.” Fernando’s lips curved into a smirk. “Thought you might need a ride home.”

Lance blinked. “You… what?”

Fernando shrugged. “It’s late. Thought it might be safer.”

Safe. Lance swallowed hard. Nothing about being near Fernando felt safe — it felt exhilarating, electric, dangerous.

“I don’t think my dad would love that idea,” Lance said, though he didn’t make any move to decline the offer. Lawrence had known Fernando for decades — from their shared classes in university, from business dealings, from god knows where else. Lance could only imagine his father’s reaction if he found out his son was falling for the man he’d once called a friend.

But right now, Lance couldn’t bring himself to care.

Fernando chuckled, the sound warm and teasing. “Are you worried about what your father would say? Or are you worried about what you want?”

Lance bit his lip, his gaze flickering to Fernando’s mouth. “I don’t—”

“Come on, Lance.” Fernando said softly, tilting his head toward the door. “I’ll take you home.”

Lance hesitated for only a second before nodding. “Okay.”

They walked out into the night, and Lance found himself acutely aware of how close Fernando was — his arm brushing against Lance’s, the scent of his cologne lingering in the air. By the time they reached Fernando’s car — Fernando's white Mustang — Lance’s chest felt like it might explode.

As Fernando opened the passenger door for him, Lance paused. “Why are you doing this?”

Fernando leaned closer, his gaze locking onto Lance’s. “Because I care for my students, do you wish for me to have ulterior motives?”

Lance’s breath caught in his throat. The words hung between them, heavy with unspoken possibilities.

“Get in,” Fernando whispered.

Lance slid into the car, his heart pounding like a drumbeat in his ears. Fernando circled around to the driver’s side, and as he started the engine, Lance couldn’t tear his eyes away from him.

The drive was quiet, the tension between them palpable. Lance’s fingers curled into fists on his lap, his mind racing with everything he wanted to say — everything he wanted to do.

When Fernando finally pulled up outside the Strulovich home, neither of them moved to get out.

“Lance,” Fernando said softly, his voice laced with something vulnerable.

Lance turned to him, his heart hammering in his chest. “Yes, sir?”

Fernando’s gaze dropped to Lance’s lips. “I’m trying to be good.”

“Don’t,” Lance whispered, his voice barely audible.

That was all it took.

Fernando closed the distance between them, his hand cupping Lance’s cheek as he kissed him — slow, deliberate, and devastatingly gentle. Lance melted into the kiss, his hands tangling in Fernando’s hair as every thought about his father, about what was right or wrong, about what he believed was ethical, faded away.

All that mattered was this moment.

Fernando's lips moved against his with an aching softness, like he had all the time in the world. It wasn’t rushed or hurried, and that made it all the more overwhelming. Lance clung to him, fingers tightening in Fernando’s subtle curls, pulling him closer.

Fernando sighed into the kiss, his thumb stroking Lance’s cheekbone, grounding him. The world outside the car fell away — the late-night traffic, the shadows of the streetlights, the distant sound of footsteps on the sidewalk. None of it mattered.

When they finally broke apart, both of them were breathing hard. Fernando’s forehead rested against Lance’s, and for a moment, neither of them said anything.

Silence settled over them again, but it was warm, comfortable. Lance traced the curve of Fernando’s jaw with his fingers, marveling at how natural this felt.

“I don’t know how we’re going to do this,” Lance admitted, his voice quiet. “My dad—”

"Lawrence doesn’t scare me,” Fernando interrupted, his tone firm but gentle. “This… you… it’s worth the risk.”

Lance’s chest tightened at those words. He’d spent so much of his life under his father’s shadow, constantly trying to live up to expectations. But with Fernando, everything felt different — he almost felt ridiculous but he couldn't help but be reassured by the older man's presence.

“I want this,” Lance whispered. “I don’t care what anyone says.”

Fernando smiled, leaning in to kiss him again — softer this time, more lingering. “Good.”

The sound of a car passing by broke the moment, and Lance pulled back, glancing out the window. His nerves prickled with the realization of where they were.

“Do you want to come inside?” Lance asked, his voice trembling slightly.

Fernando studied him for a long moment, his gaze intense. “Are you sure?”

Lance nodded. “Yeah. I’m sure.”

Fernando turned off the engine and got out of the car, waiting for Lance to join him on the sidewalk. As they walked toward the building, Lance’s hand brushed against Fernando’s. After a brief hesitation, Fernando took it, intertwining their fingers.

The gesture sent a thrill through Lance, but it also filled him with a strange sense of calm.

As they stepped inside the house, Lance couldn’t shake the feeling that he was standing on the edge of something life-changing.

Fernando glanced around the space, then turned to Lance, his expression softening. “You’re nervous.”

“A little.”

Fernando’s hands slid around Lance’s waist, pulling him close. “You don’t have to be.”

Lance looked up at him, his heart in his throat. “I’m not scared of you.”

Fernando’s eyes darkened with emotion. “Good.”

Fernando’s lips pressed softly against Lance’s, coaxing him into a kiss that felt both tender and consuming. Lance melted into it, his hands sliding up to grip Fernando’s shoulders, pulling him closer. Every thought, every doubt melted away under Fernando’s touch.

Without breaking the kiss, Fernando walked Lance backward, their steps slow and unsteady as they moved through the house. Lance’s fingers tangled in Fernando’s hair again, pulling him down deeper into the kiss, as if he couldn’t get enough.

They stumbled slightly near the stairs, Lance’s back hitting the wall with a soft thud. He let out a breathless laugh against Fernando’s lips, his cheeks flushed and eyes shining with something Fernando couldn’t quite put into words.

“You okay?” Fernando murmured, brushing a stray lock of hair from Lance’s face.

“Yea, yeah.” Lance’s voice was soft, but there was a glint of mischief in his gaze. “I’m more than okay.” He felt a rush of adreneline risking everything like this.

Fernando smirked, leaning in to kiss him again, slower this time — more deliberate. His hands slid down Lance’s sides, anchoring him in place as he kissed him deeply, like he was savoring every second.

Lance let out a soft sigh, his fingers trailing down Fernando’s chest, tugging at the hem of his jacket. “Upstairs?” he whispered, his voice barely audible.

Fernando’s gaze flicked toward the staircase, then back to Lance. “Lead the way.”

Lance grabbed Fernando’s hand, lacing their fingers together as he guided him toward the stairs. Their footsteps were clumsy, their lips finding each other again and again as they moved. At the first step, Fernando pressed Lance against the railing, his hands on either side of him as he leaned in for another kiss — deeper, more urgent.

Lance let out a soft gasp, his head tilting back as Fernando’s lips trailed from his mouth to his jaw, then down his neck. His breath hitched, his hands fisting in Fernando’s shirt, pulling him closer.

“You’re gonna drive me crazy,” Lance murmured, his voice trembling.

Fernando chuckled against his skin. “Good.”

They stumbled up the stairs, laughter and soft gasps filling the air between kisses. Lance’s heart raced, his pulse thrumming in his ears as they reached the top of the staircase. By the time they made it to his bedroom door, his nerves had faded, replaced by a burning desire that left him breathless.

Lance pushed the door open, pulling Fernando inside. The room was dark, illuminated only by the soft glow of streetlights filtering through the curtains.

Fernando shut the door behind them, his gaze never leaving Lance. “Are you sure?” he asked, his voice low, almost reverent.

Lance nodded, stepping closer until they were chest to chest. His fingers brushed over Fernando’s cheek, lingering at his jaw. “I’ve never been more sure of anything.”

The moment the words left his lips, Fernando surged forward, capturing Lance in a kiss that was anything but gentle. It was hungry, desperate — a kiss that spoke of everything they'd been holding back. Lance stumbled slightly, but Fernando caught him, his hands firm on Lance's hips as they moved together with reckless urgency.

Lance's back hit a wall — again — the force knocking a framed picture of Lance with his father at his bar mitzvah askew, but neither of them cared. Fernando's lips were on his neck now, his teeth grazing sensitive skin, making Lance gasp as he fisted his hands into Fernando's hair, pulling him even closer.

"Bed," Lance managed to gasp out between kisses, his voice shaky with need.

Fernando pulled back just enough to meet his eyes, the Canadian's lips swollen and both of them breathless. He nodded, grabbing Lance's hand and guiding him to the bed.

Lance laughed breathlessly as his legs hit the mattress, but Fernando didn't give him a chance to steady himself. He pushed Lance back onto the bed, following him down without hesitation, their bodies tangling together as they landed in a heap of limbs and laughter.

Lance reached for Fernando again, pulling him down into another kiss — messy, rushed, teeth clashing before they found their rhythm again. His hands slid under Fernando's shirt, desperate to feel skin against skin. Fernando groaned into the kiss, hurriedly undoing the buttons of his white top and shrugging it off.

Lance’s fingers trembled as they trailed over Fernando’s chest, savoring the warmth of his skin and the firm muscle beneath his touch. He let out a shaky breath, eyes flicking up to meet Fernando’s gaze. The intensity there made his heart race — dark, smoldering, full of desire and something deeper, something Lance couldn’t quite name.

Fernando leaned in, his lips brushing along Lance’s jaw, then down to his neck, leaving a trail of slow, deliberate kisses. Lance tilted his head to give him more access, his hands sliding down to grip Fernando’s waist, pulling him closer.

“God,” Lance whispered, his voice catching as Fernando nipped at his collarbone before soothing the spot with his tongue. “You’re driving me crazy.”

“Good,” Fernando murmured against his skin, his accent thick, his voice low and rough. “Because you’ve been driving me insane since the moment I met you.”

Lance’s heart skipped at the confession, his fingers tightening their hold on Fernando. Their kisses grew slower, more deliberate, every touch electric. Fernando’s hands slid under Lance’s shirt, pushing it up, fingertips brushing over his ribs and making him shiver.

“Off,” Fernando whispered, tugging at the fabric.

Lance quickly complied, pulling the shirt over his head and tossing it aside. Fernando’s eyes raked over him, his gaze lingering on every inch of bare skin — though his eyes caught notice of the thin hebrew lettering just to the side of Lance's nipple. It made Lance’s cheeks flush, but he didn’t look away — couldn’t look away.

“You’re beautiful,” Fernando said softly, reverently, as if the words were a secret just for Lance.

Lance swallowed hard, his chest rising and falling with every breath. “So are you.”

Fernando smiled, his lips quirking up at the corners before he leaned in again, capturing Lance’s mouth in another kiss — deeper this time, slower. His hands wandered, exploring every curve and dip of Lance’s body, as if committing him to memory.

Lance arched into the touch, gasping when Fernando’s lips found his neck again, kissing and biting just enough to make him tremble. His fingers threaded through Fernando’s hair, tugging gently, earning a low groan that sent shivers down his spine.

Time seemed to blur — the only things Lance could focus on were Fernando’s touch, his warmth, and the way every kiss made him feel like he was falling, completely and utterly consumed by the man in front of him.

Lance’s fingers traced the lines of muscle on Fernando’s chest, marveling at the way his skin warmed under his touch. Fernando watched him with quiet intensity, his hands resting on Lance’s hips, thumbs stroking the exposed skin just above the waistband of his jeans.

"You’re staring," Lance whispered with a shy smile.

Fernando’s lips quirked into a smirk. "Can you blame me?"

Lance leaned down, pressing another kiss to Fernando’s lips — slow, lingering, full of unspoken emotions. He felt weightless, like the world outside didn’t exist. It was just them, tangled together in his bed, lost in each other.

Until the front door slammed.

"Lance? You home?"

Lance froze, his eyes wide with panic. "Shit. My dad!"

Fernando sat up quickly, steadying Lance with a firm grip on his waist. "Calm down."

"Calm down? Fernando, if he sees you —" Lance scrambled off the bed, grabbing his shirt and pulling it on in a hurry. "He’ll freak the hell out!"

"Language," Fernando stood, slipping on and buttoning his shirt with calm precision. "We’ll handle it."

"Handle it?" Lance hissed, pacing the room. "You’re my professor! He’s already skeptical about me bringing you up so much. If he sees you here —"

Fernando crossed the room in a few strides, placing a hand on Lance’s shoulder. "Trust me."

There was a knock at the door. "Lance? I heard you moving around. Are you okay?"

Lance swallowed hard, looking to Fernando, who gave him a reassuring nod before slipping into the closet. Lance took a deep breath and opened the door, forcing a smile.

"Hey, Dad. Yeah, I’m fine. Just… studying."

Lawrence raised an eyebrow. "Studying? You’ve never been this enthusiastic about your classes before."

Lance laughed nervously. "Business ethics is really… compelling."

Lawrence gave him a skeptical look before stepping inside, glancing around the room. "What’s that smell?"

Lance’s heart raced. "Uh… scented candle. Helps me focus."

Lawrence narrowed his eyes, clearly not buying it, but thankfully, he didn’t push further. "All right. Dinner’s in an hour. Don’t be late."

"Got it," Lance said quickly, ushering his dad out of the room.

The moment the door closed, Fernando stepped out of the closet, straightening his shirt. "That was close."

Lance groaned, collapsing onto the bed. "Too close."

Fernando chuckled, sitting beside him. "He’s gone. You’re fine."

Lance peeked up at him, still flushed. "What if he figures it out?"

Fernando leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to Lance’s forehead. "I'll figure it out, I've got you Lancito."

Lance’s heart swelled at the words, and he couldn’t help but smile. "You really mean that?"

"I’ve already taken the risk. You’re worth it." Fernando’s eyes softened before he started up again, "Also, you've mentioned me to your father?"

"Nando I— Sir—" Lance stumbled over his words, obviously embarrassed at the topic being brought back up.

Fernando couldn’t help but smirk at Lance’s flustered state, watching with amusement as the younger man sat up, running a hand through his hair in an attempt to compose himself.

"You called me Nando," Fernando teased, his voice low and warm. "And Sir? Interesting combination."

Lance groaned, burying his face in his hands. "I can’t believe this is happening."

Fernando chuckled, reaching out to gently pull Lance’s hands away from his face. "Relax, Lancito. I’m only teasing."

"But my dad—" Lance started, his brows furrowed with concern.

Fernando shook his head, his expression calm and confident. "Your father doesn’t scare me."

Lance snorted. "He scares me."

Fernando laughed softly, his thumb brushing over Lance’s cheek. "That’s because you are his son. He wants the best for you."

Lance sighed, leaning into the touch. "Yeah, well, I don’t think he’d consider this the best for me."

Fernando’s gaze softened. "Maybe not at first. But he’ll see it eventually."

"You really believe that?" Lance asked, his voice quiet.

"I do." Fernando tilted Lance’s chin up, their eyes locking. "And even if he doesn’t, it doesn’t change how I feel."

Lance’s heart raced at the sincerity in Fernando’s gaze. "How do you feel?"

"I have an hour to show you."

Lance’s eyes widened, his breath hitching at Fernando’s words — he couldn't seem to breathe normally around Fernando. The boldness of the statement sent a shiver down his spine. His lips parted, but no sound came out.

Fernando smirked, leaning in to brush his lips against Lance’s ear. "Unless, of course, you’re too scared."

That was all it took.

Lance grabbed Fernando’s collar, pulling him into a heated kiss. It wasn’t cautious like before — this was urgent, desperate. They didn't have time to waste. Their mouths moved together in perfect rhythm, all their pent-up tension finally unleashed. Lance’s hands slid down Fernando’s chest, feeling the muscle beneath his shirt before tugging it off again.

Fernando’s hands roamed Lance’s body, finding their way under his shirt and tracing over every inch of his skin. "You’re so fucking perfect," he murmured between kisses, his voice husky.

Lance blushed but didn’t stop. "You’ve got an hour, right? Better not waste it."

Fernando chuckled, his teeth grazing Lance’s lower lip before gently pulling him toward the bed. "Oh, I won’t."

They stumbled onto the mattress, Lance straddling Fernando as their kisses deepened. Lance’s shirt joined Fernando’s on the floor, followed quickly by the rest of their clothes, until nothing was between them but heat and skin.

Fernando’s fingers trailed down Lance’s spine, making him shiver. "I want to remember every inch of you," Fernando whispered, his lips brushing over Lance’s jaw, down his neck, leaving a trail of kisses in his wake.

Lance’s head fell back, a soft moan escaping him. "Then don’t stop."

Fernando didn’t.

He traced every curve, every freckle, every scar with his lips and hands, committing Lance to memory. Lance’s hands tangled in Fernando’s hair, tugging gently as their bodies moved together, finding a rhythm that was all their own.

Time seemed to blur as they lost themselves in each other. The world outside didn’t matter — not Lawrence, not their risks, not the consequences. Just them.

Finally, as they lay tangled together in the sheets, their breathing steadying, Lance ran a hand over Fernando’s chest, tracing the tattoo that marked his forearm as the tattoo on his back stayed in the back of his mind.

"I can’t believe this is real," Lance murmured.

Fernando smiled, pressing a kiss to Lance’s temple. "It is. And it’s ours."

Lance nestled closer, resting his head on Fernando’s shoulder. "You’re staying?"

Fernando nodded. "For as long as you’ll have me."

Lance smiled against his skin. "Then don’t go."

"I’m not going anywhere." Fernando wrapped his arms around Lance, holding him close before pulling back again, "but you're going to eat with your father."

(Next)

[yes-sirr]

Apologies Could Work Sometimes

Pairing: Aaron Hotchner x Reader

WC: 1,923

Rating: Explicit, 18+ MDNI.

AO3 Link

Summary: After breaking up with Aaron years ago, you guys try and make it work a second time around. Not having dealt with the last breakup, you decide for the both of you to call it quits. You realize that this time around (final time you hope!) you actually need to make it up to Aaron after breaking his heart.

--

Aaron sits in his car, parked outside your house. He's been here for hours, debating whether to knock on your door or give you space. His heart aches with a mix of sadness, guilt, and longing. He finally makes up his mind and gets out of the car, approaching your door with heavy footsteps. He raises his hand to knock, then pauses, listening for any signs of life inside. After a moment, he decides to text you instead. "Princess, I'm outside your house. Can we talk?"

You come to your door. You look out the little window just to see what you have in store and your heart breaks. Aaron's shoulders are slumped over looking down at his phone waiting for a response you know won't come. You open the door and say, "Aaron, go home."

At the sound of your cold, distant tone, Aaron's heart clenches painfully. He looks at you through the doorway, his usual calm demeanor shattered by the sight of your red-rimmed eyes and pale complexion. He steps closer, his voice cracking with emotion. "Please, princess...just hear me out. I fucked up, okay? I let my job consume me, and I pushed you away when I should've pulled you closer." He reaches out hesitantly, his thumb brushing against your tear-stained cheek. "I love you. And I'm so sorry for hurting you."

You look at him heartbroken because you can't handle having the same old issues you had the last time you guys broke up. You just don't want to let it get too far along this time. It's only been two days since you've seen each other again and everything is already falling apart. You let out the heaviest sigh. "I love you too. Loving you has never been the problem. We had a good thing. But life happened. We went our separate ways. We found each other again and it was great but nothing was different this time so the same issues came back. I'm okay to let this go. I am okay to let you go."

Aaron's heart breaks at your words, tears streaming down his face. He knows you're right, but the thought of losing you forever is unbearable. He takes a deep, shuddering breath, trying to compose himself. "I understand...and I respect your decision." He wipes his tears roughly, his voice barely above a whisper. "Just...promise me one thing, princess. Promise me that if you ever find happiness again, it'll be with someone who deserves you. Who loves you fiercely and protects you like I failed to." He turns to leave, pausing at the steps. "I'll always love you. Forever and always."

You close the door and whisper to yourself, "I will always love you Aaron Hotchner. Forever and always."

--

A month has passed since that fateful night. Aaron Hotchner has thrown himself back into his work, trying to distract himself from the constant ache in his chest. One evening, he receives an unexpected visit from a familiar face. You stand on his doorstep, looking nervous yet determined. You knock on the door. Once he opens the door, you say, "Aaron...we need to talk."

Aaron's heart skips a beat at the sight of you, his eyes widening in shock. He takes in your appearance, noticing the faint bags under your eyes and the slight pallor of your skin. Despite everything, he can't help but be drawn to you, his gaze lingering on your face. "Princess, what are you doing here?" He asks, his voice rough and barely contained. He steps aside, allowing you to enter his home. "Come in, please."

Your heart clenches at the nickname. You think maybe he's not mad at how you ended things. You turn around to face him and ask, "How are you doing?"

Aaron closes the door behind you, leaning against it for support. He runs a hand through his messy hair, avoiding eye contact as he responds. "I'm surviving...barely. Every day is a struggle without you, princess. Your absence is a constant reminder of what we lost."

You wait in silence for a moment, not sure what to say. "Aren't you going to ask how I'm doing?"

Aaron's gaze snaps to yours, his brown eyes searching yours intensely. He notices the way you fidget with your hands, the slight tremble in your voice, and the way you bite your lower lip. "Fuck, I'm an idiot." He pushes off the door, closing the distance between you two. "How are you, really? Are you eating enough? Sleeping enough?" He cups your face gently, his thumbs brushing against your cheeks. He puts his forehead against yours and whispers, "Are you breaking down without me?"

You lean your face into his forehead and hold his hands in yours so now you're both cupping your face. "I was wrong to push you away. I was wrong to say that things weren't different. I was wrong to say I was okay to let you go. I am not okay. I miss you. I need you. I want you. All the time. I am so sorry, Aaron"

Aaron's heart shatters at your words, tears pricking at the corners of his eyes. He pulls you into his arms, holding you tightly against his chest. His face buries itself in the crook of your neck, inhaling your scent deeply. "Fuck, baby..." He sobs quietly, his strong facade crumbling. "I missed you so fucking much. I missed your smile, your laugh, your presence. I missed waking up next to you, hearing your voice, touching you" He kisses your neck repeatedly, his lips muffled against your skin.

"I brought you a present," you whisper against his ear.

Aaron pulls back slightly, wiping at his tears with the back of his hand. He looks at you with a mixture of curiosity and wariness, his voice hoarse from crying. "A present?" He sniffles, trying to compose himself. "What is it?" He asks, his eyes flicking to the mysterious box you pull out of your pocket. "Is it something to make up for breaking my heart?" He says bitterly, his voice laced with hurt and longing. "Or is it just an apology gift to ease your conscience?" He reaches out hesitantly, his fingers hovering over the box.

"You can tell me if it makes up for anything. But the first night we were together after we saw each other again, you went downstairs to get us some food. You were taking a long time so I decided to take some pictures for you."

He opens the box to find polaroids of you in salacious positions looking up at the camera wanton. "At the time, I thought it would be a good birthday present but I couldn't give it to you until I apologized to you at first."

Aaron's breath catches in his throat as he stares at the polaroids, his eyes wide with surprise and raw hunger. He flips through them slowly, taking in each sultry pose and provocative glance directed solely at him. His heart pounds in his chest, his face flushing a deep shade of red as he imagines you posing like that just for him. "Holy fuck" He mutters under his breath, his voice shaking with emotion. "These are...these are incredible." He looks down at you, his brown eyes burning with intensity and unshed tears. "You did this for me? To apologize?"

You look up at him nodding hoping this will absolve you. 

He sets the box aside, standing up straight. "Show me. Right now. Pose for me like you did in these photos."

You fall to your knees with your hands resting on his thighs. You look up at him, open your mouth wide, and stick your tongue out ready for him to use. Just how you look in the first polaroid.

Aaron's legs nearly buckle at the sight before him. He hurriedly undoes his belt, unbuttoning his jeans and pushing them down along with his boxers. His hard, throbbing cock springs free, already leaking precome. Without hesitation, he grasps the base and guides himself towards your waiting mouth. "Fuck, princess" He groans deeply, his voice shaking with barely restrained desire. "Open wider. Let me fuck that pretty little mouth of yours. Make it up to me with those perfect lips and that sweet throat" He begins to thrust shallowly, testing your limits as he speaks through gritted teeth. "Apologize with your mouth, sweetheart. Apologize with your throat."

You don't give him a chance to be gentle with you. You grab his ass and pull him into you making sure you gag on his cock. You bob your head back and forth letting your tongue line the bottom of his length and making sure the head of his cock hits the back of your throat.

Aaron's eyes roll back as you suddenly take him deep, your warm, wet mouth engulfing his entire length. He lets out a loud, guttural groan, his hands flying to your head to steady himself. His hips move on their own accord, pistoning in and out of your throat, the sound of gagging and choking filling the room. "Fuck, princess! Your mouth is heaven. It's so fucking tight and hot" He pants heavily, his abs contracting with each thrust. "Look up at me while you suck my cock, sweetheart."

You let him take control of you. He holds your head in place while he fucks your mouth. You look up at him hoping he forgives you. You look up at him hoping this is enough for the heartbreak. You look up at him hoping he hurts you the way you hurt him.

Aaron's gaze locks onto yours, his brown eyes piercing and intense as he continues to use your mouth mercilessly. He sees the hope and desperation in your eyes, and it only fuels his anger and pain. He wants to break you, to punish you for the heartache you caused him. "You think sucking my cock is enough to make up for the way you tore me apart?" He sneers, his voice dripping with venom as he pulls you closer, his hips snapping forward, his thick member hitting the back of your throat with brutal force.

You grab onto his wrists and just hold on to let him know its okay. You keep swallowing his cock and the leaking precome as he deepthroats you.

For a moment, his pace slows, his touch gentling. But then, the rage and hurt resurface, driving him to continue his punishing rhythm. "You destroyed me, and all you can do is sit there and swallow my fucking cum like it means anything!" He growls, his hips moving faster, his thickness swelling in your mouth. "Swallow it all, you stupid bitch. Choke on my seed and remember what you did to me." With a final, brutal thrust, he comes undone, his hot essence flooding your mouth.

As he pulls out, his release still leaking from the corners of your mouth, he yanks you up by your hair, forcing you to stand. His lips crash onto yours in a brutal, possessive kiss, his tongue invading your mouth, tasting himself on your lips. He bites your bottom lip hard enough to draw blood, his fingers tightening in your hair. "You're going to stay here with me tonight, whether you like it or not. Now that you're back, I am NOT letting you go" He growls against your mouth, his eyes blazing with a dangerous mix of anger, hurt, and possessiveness.

"Yes, anything you want sir."

[lacydollette]

SUNRISE .ᐟ sam winchester

warnings sam winchester x fem!reader, fallen angel!reader, established relationship, this shit is just fluffy asf, and ik that angels don’t need to sleep in spn but just pretend okay?!

“What are you planning, Samuel?” You teased softly, though your voice full of warmth while you were all cuddled up into one of Sam’s oversized flannels. “You’ll see,” he repeated with a sly grin, glancing at you briefly before turning back to the road, hands gripping the steering wheel tightly.

The morning had started with Sam gently shaking you awake, his voice low and soft as he told you to get dressed cause he had a surprise for you. You had groaned, burying your face deeper into the pillow. You really weren’t an early bird, but once you saw the spark in his eyes and the boyish grin on his face, you were convinced.

Now, as you sat beside him, your curiosity growing with every passing mile, you couldn't help but feel grateful for whatever it was he'd planned. Sam had a way of making you feel grounded, even when everything else seemed overwhelming, making your first time on earth more memorable than you had ever expected.

You didn’t get much peace these days—adjusting to earth was overwhelming for you sometimes—but you were handling it better than anyone Sam had ever met before.

You weren’t just anyone; you were a fallen angel, still learning your way around the human world. You approached everything with childlike innocence—your excitement over simple things like the hum of a washing machine or the sweet taste of maple syrup often left Sam grinning from ear to ear. But one thing you haven’t experienced yet was a sunrise over the ocean. When you first told him that, Sam had promised himself to make it happen. And now was the time.

When he pulled up to the beach, your breath got caught in your throat. The ocean stretched endlessly before you, the horizon glowing in the light of dawn. You stepped out of the car, the cool breeze brushing against your skin, and just stood there for a moment, staring.

“Sam,” you whispered, not really registering the sight infront of you. Sam came around to your side, taking your hand and lacing your fingers together. “I remembered you said you’d never seen a sunrise at the beach. Thought we should change that.”

Your chest ached, but in the best way. You looked at him, eyes glassy. How could someone be so thoughtful, so good? You didn’t deserve him—at least, that’s what you often thought—but he made you feel like you did. “Thank you,” you said, voice barely above a whisper.

He led you down to the sand, where he spread out a blanket for the both of you. You quickly kicked off your shoes, laughing softly as your toes sank into the cool sand. Sam just watched you, his heart doing that annoying little flip it always did when you smiled like that.

As you settled in, the first rays of sunlight broke over the water, painting the sky in soft pinks and oranges. Your eyes were wide, full with wonder as you watched. You had never seen something this magical.

“It’s more beautiful than I ever imagined,” you said, voice trembling with awe. Sam leaned closer, resting his chin on your shoulder. “Not as beautiful as you.” You laughed, a quiet, disbelieving sound, but you didn’t argue. Instead, you turned to face him, pressing your forehead against his. “You do too much for me,” you mumbled softly. “Not even close,” he replied.

The sunrise wasn’t the only thing you experienced for the first time this morning. Sam brought out a side of you that you didn’t know even existed—the carefree, playful side. When the sun was fully up, you both ran along the shore like little kids, laughing as you splashed in the waves.

“Catch me if you can!” You called, your laughter echoing as you darted away from him. “Alright, im coming for you!” Sam shouted back, sprinting after you. You felt so free running around the sand, the slight ocean breeze hugging your body.

When he finally caught you, he wrapped his arms around your waist and spun you around, both of you laughing so hard you could barely breathe. You clung to him, your cheeks flushed, heart so full that it could burst.

Being with Sam felt like home.

tags @beausling @sammyluvr @nuemanfilms @rubyvhs @chevroletdean @figthoughts @gibson-g1rl @mxltifxnd0m @angelicjackles @deansbeer

[echoingbirdsofprey]

Back Forty View (On Our Piece Of Ground)

2 - First Sip Of A Cold Beer, When The Workin' Weeks Done

Pairings: Tyler Owens x OFC Georgia Tennley-Owens, Jake 'Hangman' Seresin x OFC Samantha Kazansky

Rating: Explicit (MDNI!)

Warnings: none except Jake and Tyler's foul language hahaha

A/N: Jake and Georgia get to know each other and chat, and Tyler and Sam do the same. Just lots of fluff in this one after I horrified y'all with the last two chapters of the other part of the series! Comments, likes, reblogs are appreciated as always! Love writing for myself and y'all that are following!

Tags: @mrsevans90 @djs8891 @gpsmississippihippie @barnesboo1967 @dizzybee03

“Ahh fuck, T, I cant believe that chick rejected you too.” Jake said as he cracked open a cold beer. Kenny kept a fridge full in the barn and he only allowed the boys to drink at home, if they wanted. He felt like it made them more responsible when out with friends. And he was actually right about that because the boys did only drink at home. 

“I know, I’m the better lookin’ brother, too!” Tyler joked and Jake punched him in the shoulder. They were getting saddled up to go for a trail ride. 

“We’re the fuckin’ same, you asshole!” Jake yelled, as he tackled Tyler into the stall door next to him. The metallic clang of him hitting the door made both horses jump a little. 

“Hey, dipshit, don't spook my horse!” Tyler playfully pushed his brother back away from him and Jake caught himself on the opposite door. 

“Ah, whatever. A girl ain't gonna come between us, right?” Jake said and Tyler nodded. 

“The only girl would be our Ole Dixie girl, huh?!” Tyler exclaimed as the white dog with the speckled brown around her eye came bounding into the barn aisle, baying to announce her arrival. She knew the boys were headed out soon, and she loved running beside the horses on a long trail ride, catching all the scents and sights of wildlife that she could possibly bring home for a snack. Both boys knelt down to rub the dog's long back, then finished tacking their horses up. They put bridles on and then mounted up with their beers in hand. 

Heading out of the barn and out of the driveway, they turned right to go down the quiet country road that nary a car was in sight. Tyler's little chestnut horse strode along confidently, while Jake's painted gelding would startle every once in a while at something silly. Both boys just looped the reins and let the horses walk along, Dixie trotting in between them. The dog would veer off every so often, taken where her nose said to go, and then she’d come bouncing back from the complete opposite of where she left. 

“It's gettin’ chilly now. Best start bringin’ rifles out with us soon.” Tyler said, his head on a swivel constantly, staking out the next best place to put up a tree stand. Jake agreed silently, sipping on his beer and removing his feet from the stirrups, as they headed into the forest. There were very clearly defined trails, cut down by atv and dirt bike riders alike.

“I want duck again for Christmas. Think we can get some good ones?” Jake asked, as his horse stepped into an easy trot to catch up to Tyler's big stepping gelding. 

“Thought there was still duck in the freezer from last season.” Tyler said, leaning back in the saddle and finishing his beer. He crunched the can in his hand and then slid it into his sweatshirt pocket. He heard baying off in the distance and whistled. 

“Think momma used the last of it for that stew last week. I'll check.” Jake said, doing the same with his beer can. “If neither of us have a date to homecomin’, are we just ropin’ that night instead?” 

“Hell yeah. I ain't goin’ to that shit unless there's a lady on my arm. Unless you wanna be my date, Jakey?” Tyler joked and Jake smirked.

“Ah, I'd love to but then people would get jealous. It's already bad enough we win all the sortin’ and ropin’, if we won Homecomin’ King and Queen, well...dog incomin’.” Jake mused, just as Dixie popped out of the underbrush. She ran in between the two horses, neither of which flinched, having become accustomed to the dog's antics. 

“Dog nuke, hahaha!” Tyler yelled and made a ‘boom’ noise, which got Dixie all excited and running ahead of the horses then. 

“Dog nuke only if she kills us, Copper, and Paint. She's more like a fur missile. She don't know where she's headed though, only that she's goin’. Worst heat-seeker you’ve ever seen.” Jake’s laugh bellowed through the trees, his whole body shaking. Tyler could only shake his head as the trail opened up into a field.

“Best put’chur feet back in those stirrups.” Tyler yelled, as his horse picked up a trot. Dixie ran out in front, baying and barking as they picked up speed. Jake shoved his feet back in the stirrups and his horse took off across the field, straight into a gallop ahead of Tyler’s horse. Tyler chuckled and pushed Copper up into a gallop too. “You fuckin cheater!”

“If ya ain’t cheatin’, ya ain’t tryin’! Jake exclaimed, as they headed across the field at breakneck speed.

🌪️ 🛩️🛻⚓

Jake was excited for Christmas. It was the only time of year when everything seemed to stop. The last few years he'd been able to be home in Dardanelle and he'd been thankful for that. Everything at home had seemed empty though, as Kenny and Jeanie got older. They couldn't keep up with the needs of the farm so they has sold off a lot of the back forty. Jake had always figured Tyler might buy the house, but then he didn't. A more central place in tornado alley was better for him anyway. Jake on the other hand, had no intention of buying a house until now, but where he was stationed in Lemoore or Miramar most of the time, it would make more sense for him and Sam to settle out there, unless he requested a station somewhere else. He liked the idea of staying in the cottage for as long as possible, and if that meant taking over Javy's part of the rent, then he would.

Sam's Christmas presents to her mother and her siblings had arrived at home in Miramar, so she sent her mom a text letting her know whose were whose. She'd gotten some gift cards for Marks and Alex to some of their favorite stores, and she got her mother some baking supplies as she'd gotten very into making all sorts of cakes and pies while her father had been sick. 

It was Jake who she had trouble buying something for. He'd said she didn't need to get him anything, that being home and having the puppies was the best present, but Sam still wanted to get him something else. She'd settled on getting him a new pair of cowboy boots as the ones that he always wore were pretty beat to shit. She decided the best course of action was to ask Tyler if he would take her to a boot store, because she didn’t know the area. She thought of asking Georgia first, but then remembered how pregnant she was and figured Tyler wouldn’t let her out of his sight. 

She found him out in the garage, underneath Georgia’s truck. He’d obviously heard her footsteps, because he rolled himself out from under the truck and out popped the red cattle dog with him.

“Oh my god. He climbs under there with you? Is that safe?” Sam asked, and Tyler sat up and rubbed the pup’s head.

“Yeah, he’s fine. He’s extremely smart. The lift was bein’ wonky the other day and he wouldn’t come under with me. I fixed it and then he was all good. Did you uh, need somethin’?” He asked, standing and wiping his hands on a rag that he pulled from the hood of the truck. Sam examined him for a moment, seeing just how much he looked like Jake, but in the same vein, didn’t look like him. Tyler was all rough and tumble. Jake was clean cut. She preferred that, but she could see just how attractive Tyler was, especially to Georgia. They seemed like they were made for each other. 

“Um, yes. Sorry...I was wondering if you could bring me to a boot store? I’d like to get Jake’s Christmas present, and maybe a couple other things. I figured Georgia wasn’t driving much.” Sam asked and Tyler smiled.

“Well, she can drive, but conveniently I need to go pick up her present too and somethin’ for Jake, so I think this is a great idea. Then the two of them can spend some time gettin’ to know each other, and you and I can do the same.” Tyler said and Sam nodded. “Let me just finish up with her truck, it’ll only take a few minutes.

“Yeah, sure. I’ll go tell Jake and Georgia where we’re going.” Sam said as she headed out of the garage. She made her way back to the house, where Georgia had just walked back into the house. She held the door open for Sam. Jake was in the house, typing something on the laptop he’d been given for work. His lips turned up as Sam sat down next to him. 

“Hey, I’m going to go with Tyler to go get your Christmas present.” She said and Jake stopped typing and regarded her warmly with a soft smile.

“Are you now?” He asked, one of his hands reaching for her knee. “Is Georgia going?”

“No, he has to pick up her present, so she’s staying.Maybe the two of you can get to know each other a little better.” Sam pressed a quick kiss to his lips and then stood. She went into the kitchen where Georgia was leaning back against the kitchen counter. The look on her face said everything that Sam needed to know.

“You feeling okay?” She asked and Georgia nodded. 

“Yeah, Jaycen is just kicking an awful lot today. I don’t know whether to try to take the dogs for a walk or to go lay in bed.” She said and Sam stepped closer.

“Would you mind if I...” She began and Georgia smiled. 

“Well, you are goin’ to be his aunt, so, of course.” Georgia glanced down and Sam placed her hand just below Georgia’s belly button. She felt a little bump against her hand and her mouth dropped open in awe.

“Oh! He’s a strong little bugger.” Sam laughed. She let her hand fall away. 

“Yes. And he’s gonna be so spoiled and so loved when he gets here and I think he knows that. I just hope he doesn’t decide he wants to come too early.” Georgia mused and Sam smiled warmly just as footsteps padded into the kitchen.

“He’s got that Owens blood in him. He’s gonna give you a run for your money, I guarantee it. I been given’ my momma a hard time since I came outta her.” Jake said, making both of the ladies laugh. Jake smirked as he glanced at Sam. 

“So, I don’t want you to be offended, but I asked Tyler if he would take me into town to get Jake’s Christmas present. He said he has to pick yours up too. If that’s okay?” Sam said sheepishly. Jake raised a brow at her then, not quite understanding why she was acting the way she was with Georgia. It seemed as though she was not only afraid of offending or upsetting her, but it almost seemed like she was afraid of her. It would be something they would discuss later on. 

“Why would I be offended by that? I have to get Tyler’s present. I was going to have Boone and Kate come get me, but I should probably take Jake, huh?” Georgia asked and Sam smiled and nodded in agreement at that. 

“Well, I already have Sam’s present, but I could pick up a few more things to add to it.” Jake said as his hand met the small of Sam’s back. 

“Perfect. This worked out pretty good then. Maybe, Jake, you can supervise my walk with the dogs. Tyler doesn’t really want me going out alone. I wanted to try to ride Twist...” Georgia’s stream of thoughts were all over the place and she absolutely blamed it on her pregnant brain and body. The screen door creaked then, and there were booted footsteps with a slight limp. 

“Ain’t no way yur ridin’ unless I’m here.” Tyler’s voice boomed his entrance into the kitchen. Georgia smirked wide at him as he made his way over to kiss her. 

“Mmm, oil and diesel, such a wonderful cologne you’ve picked there.” She said as he pulled her close. He glanced down as he felt a strong bump at her stomach.

“Damn! He’s feisty today.” Tyler laughed and Georgia reached up to cup his cheeks.

“He knows who his daddy is.” She said, making Tyler wiggle his eyebrows. He kissed her hungrily again and then he stepped away, grabbing a bottle of water from the fridge. 

“Jake. I expect you to take very good care of my girl while I’m gone. Protect her like your own, you got that?” Tyler said, taking a long swig of the water. Jake chuckled and folded his arms across his chest, while leaning against the counter opposite of him.

“Same goes for you.” Jake said sternly and Tyler turned, grabbing Jake’s shoulders and shaking him. 

“Oww, you fucker. I might be healed but it still hurts, you cocksucker.” Jake said, grabbing his brother playfully, pulling him off balance. Tyler’s laugh, it was one that Georgia hadn’t heard in a very long time. It was a deep belly laugh that rumbled through him and shook his whole body. It made Georgia tear up a little to see him with his brother. She could see how close they were even though they’d be apart for so long.

“Fuck, I think we’re too old to rough house anymore, especially in front of our ladies.” Tyler said, smacking his brother gently on his upper back. Jake took a hold of one of Tyler’s biceps and squeezed and then patted him in the same spot on his back as he had done to Jake.

“You might be right about that.” Jake said. “Don’t worry, bruh, I’ll keep you lady safe. That’s my nephew in there too.” 

“You are right. We’ll take Grits with us. You know how he is. Sam, did you want to bring one of your dogs?” Tyler asked and Sam nodded.

“I think I should take Muster. She needs to get out and do things with other people. She’s so timid.” Sam explained and Jake shook his head in agreement.

“Yeah, can’t be like that if she’s a protection dog.” Jake said and Sam smiled. Sam called for the puppy, who didn’t look so much like a puppy anymore. She looked more like a mini version of an adult Malinois. She was pretty and dainty, with brilliant amber eyes and a white spot on her chest. She also had a little stripe of white under her jaw that had grown in recently. Rocco came trotting in as well and Sam kneeled down to rub his little head.

“Sorry Roc, you’re all socialized. Besides, I know how much you love spending time with Jake.” Sam said as the little red dog reached up and licked Sam’s chin with a small whine. Jake laughed when she stood, giving her a kiss on her cheek and then her lips.

“Have fun. Can’t wait to see what you’re gettin’ me.” Jake smirked, rubbing his hand across her lower back as she turned to follow Tyler, who was saying goodbye to Georgia in a similar fashion, but he placed his hand on her belly before he stepped away. As they got to the door, Grits was waiting, sitting patiently.

“Silly dog.” Tyler said, bending down to pat the puppy. “C’mon buddy.”

🌪️ 🛩️🛻⚓

“There’s so many to choose from.” Sam said, walking up and down the aisle at Cavender’s, a boot and workwear store in Stillwater. 

“Well, Jake likes Twisted X’s, and Ariat, so maybe that helps?” Tyler suggested, watching Sam as she picked up several pairs of boots and examined them carefully while he held both dog’s leashes. She glanced at him apologetically.

“Sorry. I just want it to be perfect.” She said and Tyler smiled warmly.

“Don’t be sorry. Whatever you get him, he’s gonna love. It’s not even about the thing either, it’s about the fact that he loves you a lot. I can tell.” Tyler said, running a hand over Grits’ back. Sam stopped for a moment, her hands on a pair of boots that were a simple brown color with a square toe, mid calf shaft, and a classic stitched pattern with green piping following the stitches.

“Think he’d like these?” She asked, while not thrilled with how plain they were, she needed to look past that, because they weren’t for her. They were for Jake. She knew that Jake did like simple clothing and casual style, nothing extravagant. He liked things that looked clean and well maintained. The simplicity of the boots made them exactly that.

“I do.” Tyler said. He stood as Sam grabbed the box for the boots and Tyler handed her Muster’s leash. The dog stuck to Sam’s side like glue as they continued through the store to the check out. Tyler hated putting a leash on Grits, knowing that the dog would stay with him just like Muster did with Sam, but he knew he should just in case Grits saw something he wanted to chase.

Sam paid and as they exited, Tyler took out his phone, and gave a quick call to the store where Georgia’s gift was. They hopped in the truck and headed that way.

“So, what did you get for Georgia?” Sam asked, placing Jake’s gift on the floor at her feet. Tyler’s smile widened and he glanced at Sam.

“You’ll see when we get there. You’ll appreciate it too, I think. Gee was sayin’ you had horses?” Tyler asked and Sam nodded.

“Yes, a long time ago. My dad bought me a hunter pony when I was a kid and then I showed in the bigger jumping classes until about half way through high school. We had a really beautiful horse and I miss him. I miss jumping a bit but having the dogs is a nice substitute. I’m really enjoying learning about all the protection sport stuff.” Sam explained and she glanced back at the little black dog who had curled up comfortably next to the red cattle dog. 

“It’s good to have somethin’ you enjoy outside of work and relationships. Y’know, havin’ somethin’ for yourself. Like I love weather...I love Gee, but I sure do love fixin’ a truck. It’s one’a my favorite things to do in the world, besides bein’ with Gee. I’m makin’ up for lost time there...” Tyler said and Sam tilted her head questioningly.

“What do you mean by that?” She asked.

“We’ve got a bit of a rocky past. There’s definitely fault on both of our parts.” Tyler said, his jaw working. Sam decided not to pry. She understood when someone didn’t feel like talking about something in their past, maybe more than anyone else. 

When they arrived at the tack and feed store, Tyler hopped out and before he closed the door he told her to stay. “I’ll only be a few minutes. Just picking up Gee’s present and my grain order so I’ll have to move the truck again anyway. No point in us all gettin’ out and back in.” 

Sam nodded and she decided to check her phone. She had a few texts that she’d left unanswered from the past couple of days. She’d told Nat and Maisy that she was trying to not be on her phone while they were down here and both girls understood that. They were busy with holiday things anyway. She also had a text from Rooster, which caught her off guard slightly.

Nat: hey, just wanted to wish you a merry christmas. Got something for you when you come back. Taking Bob home to meet mom and dad so this should be interesting. Never thought this was gonna go this way but I’m trying out what you said. Winging it a bit.

Maisy: merry christmas from Javy and I! Have fun down there and enjoy your time away. You and Jake need it!

Rooster: hey, just wanted to say merry christmas. Iris was really excited to meet you. I hope it was okay that I brought her along. I get it if you’re mad at me.

Sam sent a ‘merry christmas’ back to the girls and then she responded to Rooster, trying her best to not be harsh. She thought she succeeded.

Sam: Merry Christmas Bradley, hope you get to see Mav too. I think Iris is good for you. Hope you enjoy the holidays with her. I’m really happy for you.

If he could detach a little bit, maybe he could move on. Then Sam could move on. She needed the memory of that night to no longer be seared into her brain. 

Tyler surprised her when he got back in the truck. He placed four halters on the center console, all hand made, hand tooled, with beautifully etched nameplates on each one and a matching lead line. 

“Wow. These are super nice. I see you got one for Rascal too.” Sam said, picking up the halter that was meant for Tulsa. The three for Georgia’s horses were a dark brown leather, with pink leather piping. Rascal’s was brown with green leather piping. 

“Well, had to get my buddy a Christmas present too.” Tyler said with a smile as he pulled the truck to the loading dock. The employee chucked several bags of grain in the back and tapped on the back of the bed once he had finished. Tyler waved to him and drove off. 

🌪️ 🛩️🛻⚓

Georgia pulled on a jacket and Jake followed suit. It wasn’t too cold but with his injury, his bones ached with any type of chill in the air. He kind of hated that. They let the dogs file out of the farmhouse first, and Jake let Georgia go ahead of him. He shoved his hands in his pockets and walked next to her. The dogs bounded out in front, playing and romping as they headed through Twist and Wilene’s field. Tyler had recruited Dustin, Lennon, and Boone to help expand the pastures so that the horses would all have a little more room to roam around. Georgia was thankful for that, loving that Tyler had the animals best interest at heart. 

“Chilly. I’m not used to freezing temps anymore. I used to go home to Dardanelle every winter but that’s not enough to stay used to it.” Jake said, trying to make some sort of small talk. He wanted to talk to her about something else, but he was hoping maybe she’d bring it up.

“I’ve lived in Stillwater my whole life, except when I was rodeoing, but even then I could never get used to any one climate. The rodeos were all over the country.” Georgia said, glancing at Jake. There it was, and he was going to take his chance.

“Yeah...y’know I’m sure you and Tyler have talked about it but...” Jake’s brows furrowed and Georgia knew exactly what he was asking.

“Tyler and I have made our peace with each other...obviously.” She said, motioning to her belly. Jake chuckled and she spoke again. “He’s been wanting me to meet you for a while though.”

“Yeah same. Can I ask why you didn’t come back though? I’m sure you’ve told him but I’d like to hear it for myself. He hasn’t told me anything that you two have talked about yet so...” Jake asked and Georgia nodded.

“I had just lost my father not too long before I met Tyler. We spent six months straight together. We knew each other as much as we could. But I was terrified that after he got injured, knowing him, he’d try to ride again, and that he’d get hurt again and die. I couldn’t lose someone else. My father’s death was...”

“You don’t need to say anymore. I get it.” Jake said, stepping closer to her and wrapping an arm around her shoulders. “I’m just glad you two reconnected. Tyler talked about you then like you were his entire world. Now, jeez, you’re his entire universe. You mean so much to him. That’s kinda how I feel with Sam.”

“You and Sam are a really beautiful couple. I’m excited for the wedding. Tyler and I didn’t really have anything. He said he wants to have a party once Jaycen is born to celebrate him and our marriage. Tyler’s always so brash with his decision making.” Georgia laughed and Jake agreed.

“He’s always been like that. I am to a degree. It’s why I joined the Navy. We also make sure we get what we want. I knew Tyler would get this life that he’s livin’ with you. Wife, kids, house, farm. That was always his plan.”

“What was your plan?” Georgia asked, tripping slightly over a rock that she didn’t see. Jake caught her though, making good on his promise to watch her every move.

“I wanna be an Admiral and be the best pilot in the Navy, but now because of Samantha...I want some other things too. I want kids with her. I never thought I’d want to be responsible for small humans but...I dunno...she’s changed me...in a good way.” Jake explained and Georgia smiled up at him.They stopped, Georgia realizing they’d come to the end of Twist and Wilene’s pasture. They watched the dog’s bound through a patch of freshly fallen snow. Most of it had melted, but where there were dips or divots in the ground there was still some hanging on.

“Jake...Tyler and your momma told me you were one of the only reasons he was able to get through his rehab. I thought maybe you’d have some ill will toward me knowing that’d I’d left him, but you don’t seem to. I’m really glad you made sure he got better.” Georgia said and Jake pulled her in a little tighter.

“I don’t have any ill will toward you because I see how happy you make my brother. That’s all I’ve ever wanted for him. I’ve wished for him to have this life, just like he’s dreamed of it. And you’re back in it, helping to make it come true for him. That’s so much more important than being mad at you for somethin’ you did a long time ago. I know some people who can;t let go of their past and their regrets and their mistakes. I don’t wanna live like that. I don’t need that in my life. I want good shit from here on out. For all of us.” Jake explained and Georgia leaned into him as they turned to walk back toward the house. She was getting tired and Jake could tell by how heavily she was leaning on him. He would get her back home safely and get the fireplace lit so they could all warm up.

[complicatcd]

"Neither are the bottles of champagne I've put away in one lifetime or the amount of twizzlers I can put away in one sitting," she countered with a devilish smile painted on her cherry coated lips. She had plenty of bad habits in life, but worrying about him wasn't one of them, contrary to his stubborn belief. "I think I get to decide who and what I waste energy on." She wasn't being cruel, but she was being firm. For too long, someone else had made the call on what was and wasn't important for her and like her modeling career, she'd left that back in the city. Her dark orbs rolled, his greeting somehow charming despite the harmless sarcasm beneath. "Hi." A smile broke onto her mouth, the exchange innocent, but enough to make color rush to her cheeks.

Even before the run-in, she would've believed him. No one did what he did as well as he did it without some layer of experience buried beneath. "And you still came out on top?" Aksel was happy she'd missed the exchange and fearful of just how casual he was about it. Most people would've called an ambulance, but there he was taking one step after another, determined to patch up the wound himself.

A question danced on her tongue, but before she could answer, a taxi was pulling up and he was holding the door open for her. It could wait and she wasn't sure that he'd answer anyway. The quiet ride didn't bother her and neither did the driver. It was the man in the seat next to her that instilled a confidence within. Even hurt, she knew that he wouldn't allow anything to happen to either of them.

Brows furrowed when the cab's brakes squealed and the car slowed to a stop. She gave a pointed look towards Elijah before slipping from the cab and rounding the back to wait on the sidewalk. Whatever he was doing, she trusted him. "Do I want to know what that was about?" She dipped her head back towards the cab's direction, it's taillights illuminated until it made a turn out of sight.

Arms curled around her frame as the door to his place closed and she moved deeper into the space that was his. "Take care of that," she directed, chin nodding towards the wound, "and we'll talk about comfy socks." As if she'd been there before, Aksel's arms dropped to shrug away her jacket and once off, she placed it along the back of the couch before finding solace atop one of the cushions. "Can I help with anything?" She hoped the answer was no, but if he needed it, she'd brave her fears of the sticky red liquid and do what needed to be done.

"Its not good for your health." The words came out with the faintest hint of a smile on his lips. A statement that acknowledged he had no room to speak considering he had a bleeding wound at his side. "And I'm the last person you need to waste that type of energy on." Elijah didn't mean for the words to be cold or to even possibly turn a shoulder to the bond that had been building between himself and Aksel. It was a reaction of someone that felt alone in the world, that knew nothing of himself beyond these past thirteen years. Add to that, Elijah seemed to have natural instincts at keeping people at a distance. After such a flatly delivered response he nodded to her wanting to say hi and the pleasantry returned to his visage. "Hey, Aksel," he said coolly.

"I say it because it's true. I have enough experience, and well, I just know." There were things he couldn't readily explain, Elijah was unaware where certain knowledge came from, and it was incredibly frustrating. "No vital organs are hit. It's just a spot that bleeds a lot. Especially since it's a knife wound and the way he somewhat twisted —" Pausing, his blue eyes found her and a smile ghosted again, she didn't need to hear all of that. "Would you believe me if I said this isn't my first rodeo?" As he teased, a smirk began to form.

The sound of her heels catching up to him put a twitch into Elijah's brow. He wasn't exactly good with making her walk all that way knowing how much her feet would be aching upon destination, especially when she was only putting herself through that due to her worry over him. "You know what —" Statement gone unfinished, Elijah pulled his phone from his pocket and called up a taxi. Thankfully one was just around the corner. "Thanks," he said his hand grasping the package of tissues. In the midst of pulling a good chunk free of the plastic, the taxi pulled up to the curb and Elijah placed his hand free of any blood gently on the center of her back and guided her to the back passenger door. "After you." There was a flash of displeasure as his pressed tissues to his wound, then Elijah followed her into the backseat. He gave his address and watched the weary eyes of the driver in the rearview mirror and caught him glancing repeatedly at Aksel.

On the ride he was quiet. Mostly because he was keeping an eye on the driver. Though when they arrived in front of his place in Jackson Hill, Elijah motioned to Aksel's door. "Why don't you go on and step out first," he'd suggested, leaning into her quietly. Once she was out and rounding the back of the taxi car, Elijah gave a few words to the driver, then handed him payment for the service. When he made it out of the car he was switching out soaked through tissues for the remainder of the pack and led her to his front door. "This way," he'd said, keys coming out of his pocket. After letting her in, he shut and locked the door behind him and moved into the living room of his humble home. Very Spartan style living. "You can take those off if you'd like and I can get you some thick, comfy socks to keep your feet warm if you'd like?" Never mind that he was still bleeding, Elijah would take care of a guest first. Before she could reply he headed for his bedroom.

[jwooyoung]

saw a husky wandering around alone when I took koda for a walk earlier, went back out with the roomie to see if we could catch it, ended up having to leave to go to work so I texted my sister (who has two huskies) and IMMEDIATELY her bf was on the phone like. where is it. how far. send the address. so he's been there for like three hours trying to trap the dog so it's not out all night in the woods 😭

[torchickentacos]

Save me, May to December by Megan Fernandes. Save me

[rosicheeks]

Oh it would be so easy to hunt you down. I’d just toy with you, calling out to you “Rosie my sweet trophy. Why do you hide? You know you want this.” Then as soon as I find you my hand would be clasped over your mouth before you even have a chance to scream whilst my other hand roughly tears at your clothes so I can slide inside you. “Oh…why are you so wet if you don’t want this? I can see the fear in your eyes and feel your screams against my hand but your pussy is telling a different story.”

🫠