#time to sit and eat breakfast and enjoy my coffee and not rush through my shower

[quietblissxx]

⭐ woke up when my first alarm went off instead of snoozing!!! My get up now to actually have time to breathe in the morning alarm.

[bpmiranda]

The Bodyguard II |l. howlett|

A/N: slow burn, friends to lovers, angst, 21y/o f!character, bodyguard!logan x original character, flirtationship, drug use, depictions of violence, mentions of organized crime

The Bodyguard

Mercedes had imagined a proposition like this would occur when Emilio had begun to pay for her to go to nursing school, but she was far too excited at the time to question it. As she was nearing her graduation, it was beginning to sink in that this might be the life she was stuck with and it didn’t sit well with her.

“You would basically be on retainer for the cartel.” Logan concluded.

“Yeah, some dream job,” She muttered as she set her empty coffee cup down in front of her to run her fingers through her hair. “Logan, I had plans to leave Tijuana. I wanted to go to the States and start my own thing over there. If I get caught up in Emilio’s business…” She trailed off, fidgeting nervously with her cuticles. “I don’t want to get hurt.”

“You won’t get hurt,” Logan reassured her as he placed a comforting hand on her knee and squeezed it. “I wouldn’t be doing my job if you did. And you could still go anywhere you want to go.” He said with a shrug as he leaned back in his chair and watched her shake her head.

Mercedes gave him a doubtful look, those deep brown eyes looking at him sadly and he hated to see her like that. “No one says no to the cartel, or my brother. Do you really think it’ll be that easy for me?”

Logan couldn’t help but be sympathetic towards her. Maybe it was the years that they had known each other that made him grow soft for her. Maybe it was that little pout on her lips as she confided in him, trusted him entirely with her issues. Maybe he just enjoyed being useful to her. “I’ll help you figure something out, sugar.”

Over time, and with a lot of effort, Logan had earned a certain amount of authority within the Vasquez cartel, mainly over issues of security, but Emilio had come to trust him as a confidante. Especially when it came to anything dealing with his sister. After dropping Mercedes off at the clinic where she worked part-time one morning, Logan arranged to meet with her brother.

Emilio was having breakfast with his wife at her family’s restaurant which Logan knew well. Her name was Clara Espinoza, the Espinozas’ were old family friends of the Vasquez’ and she was a long time lover of Emilio’s. “Logan!” The drug lord greeted him with a strong handshake and a hug. “Come, eat with us.” Logan was guided into a chair across from the couple and he thanked them for the invitation. “What to drink? Un café? Una cerveza? (A coffee? A beer?) Whatever you want, amigo.” Emilio gestured at the waiter standing over Logan.

“Beer’s fine.” Logan said gruffly and the waiter nodded before retreating. “Thanks for meeting me. I won’t take too much of your time.” Logan returned his attention to his boss who waved him off as he sipped his coffee.

“No, no, you’ve caught me at a good time,” Emilio said with a grin and Clara chuckled softly beside him. He smiled, kissed her cheek and gestured to her. “How can I be in a rush when my lovely wife is sharing this wonderful meal with me?” Clara blushed, scoffing lightly at her husband as she shook her head. “Dime, Logan, que sucede con Mercedes?” (Tell me, Logan, what’s going on with Mercedes?) Emilio asked as he sat back and wrapped an arm around his wife.

“Seems like she’s got different plans than those that have been made for her,” Logan said to which Emilio gave him an understanding nod and he continued. “She told me she’d rather find work in the States after she’s graduated nursing school.”

“Hm,” Emilio nodded as he took in a deep breath, rubbing his chin with his free hand that wasn’t caressing his wife’s shoulder. “That puts me in quite a predicament. You see,” Emilio set both his arms on the table as he gestured with both hands. “My men cannot heal as quickly as you, am I right?” Logan nodded, knowing exactly where the conversation was heading, but not daring interrupt, not because Logan couldn’t hold his own in a fight with Emilio - it was a matter of respect. “And more often than not, I cannot have my men checking into a hospital after getting shot in the arm or the leg or wherever. Too many questions.” Emilio thanked the waiter who suddenly appeared and placed Logan’s beer in front of him. Logan took a long swig as his boss continued talking. “And so, I need a nurse available to my men. You see my predicament, don’t you, Logan?”

“Sure.” Logan said.

“What is she really worried about?” Emilio asked.

Logan clicked his tongue as he shrugged. “She’s scared of getting hurt, and I can’t blame her. With all due respect, I’ve tangled with some of your men. They’re not exactly the picture of chivalry.”

“Lo sé, lo se,” (I know, I know,) Emilio sighed, rubbing his jaw pensively and he turned to his wife. “What would you advise me, amor mío (love of mine)?”

Clara smiled appreciatively at her husband and she looked at Logan. “Mercedes wants to pursue her career in the United States?” Logan nodded. “Would you go with her? To protect her?” Another more eager nod. “So then my Emilio must fund a trip for two across the border without her being seen because everyone knows who she is and in turn who her brother is, which will not come cheap.” She explains, looking over at Emilio who nods, following his wife’s train of thought. “Then if you make it across the border, we pay for housing, supplies, maybe Emilio sends an extra man for the love he has for Mercedes. However, we have already lost you, Logan, and you are worth twenty men and she cannot very well live on her own in a country where we have no strings to pull. Does this make sense?” Logan nods, his jaw tight and his hold tighter on the beer bottle.

Suddenly, Emilio clapped, laughing lightly while he looked at Clara as if the problem had solved itself. “Ah, pues ahí esta!” (Ah, well, there it is!) He exclaimed happily and Logan stared at his beer bottle, wondering how Mercedes would react to him giving her the bad news that she’s already got the job she doesn’t want. “(My sister) Mi hermana has nothing to worry about because she has you, amigo. You will be with her the twenty-four hours of the day, seven days of the week. Twenty-four, seven, si?” Logan nodded. “She comes in to patch somebody up, you come in with her. I send her to one of my safehouses, you go with her. Easy peasy, done.” Emilio dusted off his hands and raised them up. “Algo más?” (Anything else?)

“Nothing.”

While Logan was waiting outside of the clinic later that day for Mercedes, he smoked a cigar and wondered how he would break the news to her that she did not in fact have a choice. It felt awful to bring her bad news, but there wasn’t much he could do short of running away with her. Running off would mean she would be hurt, and staying would mean only possibly getting hurt. Logan felt more comfortable with possibilities than playing around with her safety across the border.

“Hey,” Mercedes suddenly greeted him with a kiss on the cheek as she slid into the passenger seat and she buckled her belt. “Did you talk to Emilio?” Her eyes were wide and expectant and Logan sighed.

“I did.” He said as he started the car.

From his tone alone, she knew he didn’t have good news for her. It wasn’t like she expected anything different, at least not the realist part of her. The dreamer side of her had held onto a little bit of hope, however. “But he said you’ll be with me the whole time?” She asked after he had explained how the conversation had gone.

“Twenty-four, seven.” Logan nodded, looking over at her as they stopped at red light. “Is that a little more comforting?” He asked with a smirk and she rolled her eyes playfully.

“I guess.” She teased and he chuckled. “Was Clara there?” Her foot was tapping anxiously in the air as she had her legs crossed. Logan hesitated, but he nodded, keeping his eyes on the stoplight and hoping it would turn green before she asked him a more uncomfortable question - which she did anyway. “What did she say?” Mercedes asked in a bitter tone because she knew Clara would always put in her two cents simply because Emilio couldn’t live without them. Logan cleared his throat and looked over at her with a little shake of his head. “Tell me. I won’t be upset.” She lied.

Mercedes and Clara did not get along, this was a fact Logan knew and he’d be a fool to add fuel to that fire. It began with some dispute not long after the wedding about some items in her father’s home, the home Clara was now living in which Mercedes couldn’t stand. Another reason she decided to move to the other side of town.

“Sweetheart, just know Emilio’s keeping you around, okay?” Logan almost sighed in relief when the light turned green and he pressed on the gas to get her home as quickly as possible. Her hand suddenly rested on his thigh and she lightly drummed her fingers on his strong muscle. “Stop that.” He barked and she only continued, lightly rubbing his knee as she gave him a doe eyed look. “‘Cedes, I’d take a bullet for you, but I’m not getting between you and her.” Logan said firmly, a sad attempt at saying no to her.

“Was it her idea to keep me here?” She asked and he sighed, her grip tightened on his leg at this and he nodded. “Mierda!” (Shit!) She punched his thigh which made him chuckle and she crossed her arms furiously. “That bitch.”

While she stewed in the passenger seat, Logan finally parked outside of her apartment building and he walked her inside, up to her door where he leaned against the frame and watched her angrily fight her key into the lock of her doorknob. “Don’t think about it too much, alright, kid?” He told her as she finally got the door open. Mercedes turned to him with an unamused expression. “The guys your brother’s got running for him are professionals. What are the chances you’ll have to patch someone up very often anyway?”

It was more often than either of them thought and being on retainer for her brother had worsened Mercedes’ attitude. Logan noticed she seemed to hide in her apartment aside from going to work or school. It concerned him, but she kept pushing him away, telling him everything was fine when he had come to know her so well that he knew she was lying. But what more could he do if she didn’t want to talk to him about it? There was still a job to get done.

“‘Cedes!” Logan was pounding on her door, glancing at the time on his wristwatch as he continued knocking until she appeared in front of him with an annoyed expression.

“Logan!” Mercedes scolded, her brows furrowed as she stared up at him in disbelief. “I have neighbors.” She said as she pulled him into her apartment and shut the door behind him. “What the hell’s going on?” She asked him, crossing her arms over herself and it was then that he realized she was wearing only a tank top and some panties. Her hair was frizzy as if she were just getting up and he chuckled.

“You’re sleeping in now?” He asked, sounding more like a father figure than he intended to and she rolled her eyes as she walked into her kitchen. His eyes fell on her ass, not failing to notice how it moved with every step and he found himself following her.

“Is that what this is?” She asked as she filled a glass with water from the faucet and turned back around to watch him as she drank it. “A wake up call?” She asked as she set the glass down. Logan shook his head, not necessarily in a big rush now as he was looking at her. Mercedes suddenly snapped her fingers at him and his eyes met her deep brown ones. “Que paso, Logan?” (What happened, Logan?) She urged in an irritated tone.

“Emilio needs you. Someone’s been cut up pretty bad and they need stitches.” Logan answered and her eyes widened.

“You’re fucking kidding.” She groaned in disbelief as she hurriedly ran to her room to get dressed and Logan took his sunglasses off to rub a hand over his face. Pull it together, he thought to himself as he refilled the glass she had used and chugged down some cold water.

At the safe house, Logan kept her shielded behind him while guiding her into the rundown, empty home which sat in the middle of a sketchy neighborhood. His gaze seared every guy that watched them come through, protectively holding onto her waist as he led her into the bedroom where a young boy was sobbing and wincing from the pain of some deep slashes he received in an arm and a leg. “Oh, shit.” Mercedes breathed out as she quickly knelt beside him on the makeshift cot.

“Oye, amigo, para fuera!” (Hey, buddy, get out!) Another guy in the room tried to shove Logan out and he simply punched him in the face, his knuckles didn’t even bruise while the guy now had blood spurting out of his nose. Mercedes looked over her shoulder at them and Logan shrugged it off, leaning against the door and crossing his arms.

“He might need you to take a look at that when you’re done.” Logan said and she only gave him a little incredulous head shake before returning her attention to the boy bleeding out.

No one tried to tell Logan anything once he made it clear he wasn’t leaving the room while she was still in there. Logan watched her easily calm the young boy down with chit chat and explained what she was doing before she did it. It seemed second nature to her to care for others and he wondered if she was like this at the clinic as well. This was the Mercedes he had come to know, sweet and gentle. It confirmed for him that there was something else going on with her that made her turn to smoking and lacking in the general upkeep of her space.

After about an hour, she finished stitching the kid up. “Ahí está,” (There you go) Mercedes said as she snipped the thread in the boy’s arm and wrapped a bandage around the wounds. “Change them every two hours and keep them clean, okay?” She said and the boy nodded, thanking her in Spanish and squeezing her hand gratefully as he rested back on the cot, sighing in relief that he wouldn’t be bleeding out today.

The guy whom Logan had punched approached them suddenly and Mercedes quickly placed a hand on Logan’s chest as he made a move towards him. “Wait,” She told him as she dug in her medical bag and pulled out an ice pack. “No está rota,” (It’s not broken,) She told the guy as she inspected his bleeding nose while she shook the pack before handing it to him. “But next time it might be if you try anything like that again.” She warned and he nodded as he backed up.

Mercedes then turned to Logan with a little smile as she zipped up her bag. “Ready?” He asked her with a bit of a proud smirk, stepping away from the door as she nodded and he guided her back out. The guy running this safe house stopped them at the front door and he looked Mercedes up and down quizzically before taking her hand and sticking a wad of money in her palm. “Gracias, doctora.” (Thanks, doctor.) He said and then he looked at Logan and nodded towards his car parked in front. “Now get outta here.”

The car ride was silent and Logan was curious as to what was going on in her mind. “Wanna get a drink?” He asked, looking over at her and she nodded with a small smile.

The bar they stop at is one on Emilio’s payroll and Mercedes is immediately greeted and tended to when they walk in. Logan follows behind her as he eyes the other patrons, making sure there isn’t an unfamiliar or unwelcomed face in the bar. Once seated in a corner booth, they order their drinks, and Logan notices her mood is more uplifted than before they arrived at the safe house. “Thanks for staying with me.” She says suddenly, her hands folded in her lap as she looks at him across the round table.

Logan lights a cigar while he shrugs. “Just part of the agreement with Emilio.” He says and she only smirks. “What?” He asked her with a raised brow as he closed his zippo lighter and stuffed it back into his pocket.

“Was part of the agreement to punch anyone that tried to keep you from me?” She asked and Logan chuckled as he blew out a cloud of smoke above them.

It wasn’t, but she didn’t need to know that. “Would you have preferred that I left you alone in there with him?” He asked and she rolled her eyes as she shook her head, still smirking as she knew he was avoiding the obvious.

The way he stared at her this morning was no slip up. “I’ve seen how you look at me, Lo.” She said, resting her hands on the table in front of her and he moistened his lips as he waited for her to continue. “I look at you sometimes.” She said with a nonchalant shrug, and he felt a connection between his pelvis and his heart, aching for the girl across from him.

“Sugar,” Logan said with a sigh as he ashed his cigar in the ashtray sitting on the table. “You don’t want to go down that road with me.”

A small frown turned her lips and she asked, “Don’t you think it’d be fun?” Her elbow propped up on the table and she rested her chin on her palm as she gazed at the handsome features of his face, wondering what his lips might feel like on hers or on her neck or somewhere else. The adrenaline is this afternoon was still pumping through her and she desperately needed a way to release it.

Logan wasn’t sure what her game was, but he figured he’d play along. “Say we fuck tonight when I drop you off,” He says and she bites her lip at the thought, closing her eyes as she makes a show of really thinking about it. The thought aroused her and Logan pretended not to notice, pretended his mouth didn’t water from her scent. “What happens in the morning when I pick you up?”

“So you wouldn’t spend the night with me?” She asked, her eyes opening and feigning to be hurt as she placed her hand over her heart to which Logan rolled his eyes.

“Forget it.” He smirked, thanking the waitress as she dropped off their drinks and he noticed she gave him a flirty look as she mumbled a soft ‘my pleasure’ while also setting down a napkin in front of him with her phone number.

Mercedes noticed too and she couldn’t help the light scoff that left her lips. Logan downed his shot of whiskey and he avoided looking at her as he knew exactly what she was thinking. “Clearly you’ve got choices.” She said as she sipped her drink, eyeing him over the rim of her glass. Logan could’ve sworn he detected a hint of jealousy, but he decided not to pull at the thread. He had to remain professional, had to get her home at the end of the day without fucking her, or he risked everything he had built.

They had a few more drinks over which they talked about the general stuff which they usually do; her schooling, their work, Emilio’s work. It interested her more than anything, however, to know more about his life before her, the centuries he had spent wandering around, and how things had changed. Meanwhile, everything before meeting her was slowly beginning to matter less and less to Logan.

“When exactly did you get into that stuff?” He asked as he watched her roll up after he swallowed his fourth shot of whiskey.

Mercedes shrugged as she finished sealing the joint with the moisture of her tongue and she slid around the table towards him, holding the spliff between her lips while Logan lit it for her. As she was about to slide back around to her seat, his arm came down around her shoulders and he kept her there beside him. She smiled to herself and rested against him. “This girl at college always had some and we would smoke from time to time.” She said after blowing out a cloud and ashing in the same tray he was using.

“Is that the friend that’s got you behaving differently?” He asked as his thumb gently caressed her bare shoulder and she looked up at him.

“Different how?” She asked, hitting her joint again.

Logan shrugged as he toked on his cigar, doing another scan of the patrons in the bar around them before ashing. “Your room’s messy which isn’t normal for you, you’re smoking weed and drinking which isn’t something you’ve shown interest in before recently, you said you were scared of working for the cartel, but I seem to remember you didn’t want to let fear control your life. Something changed.” He pointed out.

Mercedes was quiet for a moment before saying, “You’re the first person that‘s asked.” She said softly. Logan looked down at her and leaned away from her a little bit. “I’m not a normal college student, Logan.” She sighed, resting her elbow on the table and her head in her hand as she turned her body towards him. “I just want to be a normal girl with friends who do drugs and has a messy room and doesn’t care so much about trying to please someone who isn’t even paying attention.” Logan realizes she’s talking about Emilio and he frowns when her eyes water threateningly. “My dad used to call me everyday and talk to me. We’d have conversations that normal fathers and daughters have, you know?” Logan nodded even though he didn’t. “I just miss that. I miss just being his daughter and him telling me how much he loved me; he was the only one that unconditionally supported me.”

Logan should’ve realized she had not properly processed her father’s death. It was quite sudden and tragic, and he recalled now that she had been away at college when it happened. Mercedes didn’t get to say goodbye like Emilio did and that was clearly taking its toll on her now. “Wanna go home and talk about it?” He asked and she gave him a little playful look.

“Don’t you have a waitress to see about?” Logan smirked and glanced over at the waitress who was already smiling sweetly at him.

“I’ve got her number. I can just call and apologize later.” He said as he nudged the young girl and she smiled bashfully, nodding as he guided her out of the booth. He set some cash down on the table before her leading her out to his car - forgetting the napkin with the waitress’s number.

At a stoplight, Logan looked over Mercedes having gotten the feeling that something was on her mind and he placed a hand on her knee. Her sweet face looked over at him and he gave her a nod. Her eyes moved away from him and onto the stoplights. “Are you going to leave me someday?” She asked quietly. Logan raised an eyebrow curiously as she picked at her cuticles. “My dad passed away, Emilio got married and stopped calling me all together,” Her teary eyes looked over at him and she gave him a sad smile. “You’re the only person I’ve got left.”

Logan’s heart ached as he heard her confess that she felt abandoned, cast aside, and her attempt at distancing herself was beginning to make sense now. “I’m not going to leave you, ‘Cedes.” He told her, taking her hand and kissing her knuckles. “You’re mine to take care of, aren’t you?” He teased and she couldn’t fight the smile on her face.

In her apartment, Logan was sitting at the kitchen table while she paced around and talked about how it felt to have missed the funeral, to not have been at her father’s deathbed to share her last words to him. Slowly, through the night, he could see her coming back to him. That sweet girl he had first met five years ago, every tear seemed to be washing away this new persona of hers that pretended not to care when in reality, she cared a lot.

“You know what the weirdest part is though?”

They were on her couch now. She was sitting with her legs criss crossed, facing him while he sat back on the other end, smoking his cigar, his thighs spread out as he sat comfortably. “Tell me.” Logan said, looking at her as she picked at her cuticles.

Mercedes looked back up at him and shrugged. “I thought I’d be scared of the men my brother works with, but I think I was more scared that I couldn’t sympathize with them.” Her eyes searched his face for understanding and he nodded, wanting her to continue. “Seeing that boy today, it made me realize he and I aren’t cut out for this life, but maybe that’s because people like my brother need people like us around. People that can care for them without judgment.”

There was a moment of silence during which Logan considered telling her that he thought she was perhaps the most compassionate person he ever knew, that he couldn’t have ever imagined he would come to care this much for her. But what would that do?

“You’ve got a good heart, kid.” He said as he took another puff of his cigar. “Even better head, don’t stop using it, yeah?”

A soft laugh left her lips as she began to lay down. “Thanks for listening to me ramble, Lo.” She whispered, looking up at him with sleepy eyes as they had been talking for almost two hours now. Her head was lying on the couch’s arm rest while her legs were now draped over his lap and he couldn’t stop staring at her.

“My pleasure.” His tone was mocking of the waitress, making her chuckle and she playfully pushed on his ribs with her foot which made him laugh as he caught it and caressed it softly. “Get some sleep. I’ll spend the night.”

🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼🌼

The Bodyguard III

🏷️: @dontfeedthebigbadwolf @peterparkernotfound @httpsells @evasmlp @ayatotiddies @thatlittlered @seasonofthenerd @littlemisscantloveyouback @scorpiosaintt @simpingfor-wakasa @spencerswh0r3 @thatweirdtheaternerd12 @shybluebirdninja @iamburdened

[earthchica]

ungodly hour / three

joel miller x black! reader

summary: you are living with joel again, and you both get to see the baby for the first time.

warning: fluff, slight angst, pregnancy, ultrasound, jealousy & possessiveness, age gap, language, nicknames.

__ series masterlist

You groaned into your pillow while attempting to shield your eyes from the sunlight seeping through the blinds.

Shifting to the other side of the bed, you glanced at your watch to check the time. 

It was 7:00 am.

Slowly rising and rubbing your eyes, you adjusted to the surroundings, realizing you were back living with Joel.

Joel suggested you move back in, and you agreed to stay only until the baby was born. 

The experience has been awkward but manageable, with both of you skirting around the unspoken tension.

With a dramatic sigh, you rolled out of bed and trudged to the bathroom to kickstart your morning routine.

You let your long, thick locs down from the bun you had it, and you ran your fingers through each one.

You then got dressed into an oversized brown button-up shirt and paired it with some well-loved low-cut jeans, and my brown boots.

You headed downstairs to grab your keys and saw a little note from Joel.

You were a little disappointed that he didn't wait for you to go to the dining hall but you two used to do that when you were a couple.

You guessed he didn't want to make you feel weird or whatever. With a sigh, you grabbed your keys and jacket before heading out.

Once you were inside the dining hall, you immediately got yourself some breakfast.

You spotted Joel in a denim button-up shirt paired with his favorite worn-out jeans and boots, sipping on coffee and engrossed in a book.

"Good Morning, Joel," You greeted him warmly, and he looked up with a glint in his eyes, returning the smile.

"Morning, darling. Sorry...I don't wait for you, I had to do something for someone" Joel said, and you nodded, sitting down at the table with him.

"It's okay...no need to apologize." You said with a small smile before eating.

You both enjoyed your breakfast together in a comfortable silence until finished.

"Oh, damn...almost forgot to tell you I have a check-up with Charles today. So after our duties, do you want to tag along?" You asked.

Joel nodded with excitement in his eyes, getting up from the table which surprised you.

"Of course, we'll head over there after. Is that okay?" He asked and you nodded, grabbing your jacket before leaving with him.

Upon arriving at the greenhouse, you devoted your time to cultivating vegetables, fruits, and various plants.

You found great joy in this work, as it served as a therapeutic retreat from the stresses of life.

The vibrant colors of the fruits and the fresh scent of herbs always lift your spirits.

You looked up from where you were standing and smiled at Cameron.

He was a guy who also worked in the greenhouse, he was always sweet and thoughtful.

Cameron busied himself by watering the plants and checking the soil, his enthusiasm contagious.

You were about to head out to meet Joel but you paused as Cameron rushed up, and called your name.

"Hey, before you go could you help me with something real quick?" he asked, a hopeful glint in his eyes.

"Sure, what do you need?" You replied, walking over to him. He pointed to a row of potted herbs that seemed to be struggling.

"I can't figure out what's wrong with these. I've tried adjusting the watering schedule and checked for pests, but they still look wilted."

You examined the plants closely, your mind running through possible causes.

"Let's check the roots," You suggested. "Sometimes, the problem lies beneath the surface."

Together, you both carefully lifted one of the plants from its pot, revealing a tangled mess of roots that had outgrown their container.

"Ah, root-bound," You said, nodding. "They need more space to grow. You should report them in larger containers."

Cameron grinned appreciatively. "Thanks! I knew you'd have the solution. So um, I was wondering if you weren't bus-" His words were interrupted by Joel.

"Don't you even fucking try it," Joel remarked, stepping inside with a determined expression that caused you to roll your eyes.

"Oh, Joel. Hey, man" Cameron stuttered nervously.

"Whatever you were about to ask her, it's not happening." He says, placing his hand on the lower of your back.

"Joel?" You interjected, glancing at him with annoyance.

"Well, I apologize, but rumor has it that you two broke up. Is that incorrect?"

There was a moment of silence before you addressed the situation.

"Yes, that's true, but Joel and I are sorting things out.-" Then Joel barged in with some words that were better left unspoken.

"Yeah, and she's carrying my kid. So there's no way you stand a chance with her," Joel disclosed, prompting Cameron to widen his eyes as he glanced at your growing baby bump.

"Oh, uh, okay. Best of luck to both of you then," he muttered, walking away with an air of resignation.

Joel couldn't hide his amusement as he observed Cameron retreating to tend to the plants. He then turned to you, noticing your annoyance.

"What the hell was that?" You asked as soon as you both left the greenhouse, hands on your hips, expecting an explanation.

"I have no idea what you're talking about," Joel responded, walking off, and you followed him to the clinic.

"Oh, Joel, you know what the hell I'm talking about. You have no right to act like a fucking jealous asshole" You commented while watching him stop in front of the clinic doors.

"I know and I'm sorry, darling." He said with a sigh. You shook your head as you both stood there in silence.

"Did you really mean what you said...about us sorting things out?" he asked, shifting the conversation while running his hand through his hair.

"I don't know Joel," You said, heading into the clinic, and you took a seat, anticipating your name being called.

Joel came in shortly after and took a seat beside you, giving you a perplexing look that you couldn't quite decipher.

You rolled your eyes and decided to flip through an old magazine on the nearby side table.

A few minutes went by...

"What the hell is taking so long?" Joel nervously inquired, tapping his leg and checking his broken watch repeatedly.

You couldn't help but chuckle at his anxious behavior. It is kind of weird and sweet seeing him like this.

"Joel, are you okay?" You asked, glancing at him and he briefly looked at you before focusing ahead.

"Yup...I'm fine, why do you ask?" Joel replied, still fidgeting with his leg.

"Oh I don't know, maybe it's because you keep shaking your leg like you're in a hurry to use the restroom or something!"

Joel attempted to stop but to no avail which made you giggle a little.

"Sorry, I'm just a bit nervous," he admitted, offering a shy smile. You reassured him by holding his hand tightly.

"Everything will be fine, Joel. Just relax!" You comforted him, and his leg gradually ceased its movements, bringing smiles to both of you.

__

The room was dimly lit, the soft hum of the machine filling the silence.

You lay down on the examination table with Joel standing beside you, offering a reassuring smile.

You felt a flutter of butterflies in your chest when he did that. Charles walked in with a relaxed demeanor.

"Hey, you two," he greeted you and Joel with warmth, and you both returned the gesture.

"Are you both ready to see your little one?" he inquired, and you nodded in response.

"Alright" He smiled and applied the cool gel to your belly, causing you to shiver slightly from the sensation.

As he moved the transducer across your skin, the screen flickered to life.

You both stared in anticipation, breaths held, until finally, the image became clear.

There, amidst the grainy black and white, was a tiny, pulsing heart.

Tears welled up in your eyes, and you reached for Joel's hand, squeezing it tightly.

"Wow!" He exclaimed, his eyes glued to the screen. You looked up at Joel and noticed tears streaming down his face.

"That's our baby?" he asked and you nodded. "Yes, that's our baby,"

"The baby is healthy. I recommend you continue doing what you’re doing. Other than that, I’ll see you both at your next check-up," Charles said as he rose from his chair.

"Thank you," Joel and I responded in unison, shaking his hand. Before he exited the room, he handed me a picture of the ultrasound.

You smiled down at it, unaware that Joel was standing right beside you.

"I can't wait to meet her or him," Joel said, wrapping his arm around your waist and kissing the side of your forehead.

He seemed oblivious to his actions until you cleared your throat and looked up at him pointedly.

"Oh, sorry. Um, uh, let’s go home," he stammered, hurrying out of the room.

You released a breath you didn’t realize you were holding. You couldn't believe he still had that effect on you.

"Yeah," You nodded, even though he had already exited. You had to get yourself together before leaving the ultrasound room.

tags

@orcasoul

@joeldjarin

[danikamariewrites]

Can u write abt az being doting and babying reader 🥹 I'm in desperate need for azriel fluff

Self-Care Day

Azriel x reader

A/n: my love for soft Az knows no bounds

Warnings: none

The moment you opened your eyes you knew you didn’t want to do anything today. You just wanted to be lazy and stay in bed with Azriel. Rolling over to face Azriel’s side of the bed you find it empty. You frown, thinking that he probably stayed at the House after training earlier.

As you roll back over to close your eyes again and enjoy your lazy day alone the bedroom opened. Azriel came in holding a tray with breakfast for both of you and two steaming mugs of coffee. Sitting up you smile at him. “Aww Az. What’s this for?”

He places the tray on the bed sliding in next to you, planting a kiss on your cheek. “I remember yesterday you said you wanted a do nothing day so I thought this would be the perfect start to that.” Grabbing his face you give him a dramatic kiss on his cheek.

“Thank you baby.” You looked down at the spread and picked at the bacon and pancakes. “Wait, let me.” He takes the fork and knife from you and begins to cut up your food for you. “Oh Az, you don’t have to do that.” “I want to.”

You held your hands up and backed off. Azriel wraps a wing around you while he finishes up. Azriel sits back, patting the space between his legs for you to sit. You sit in front of him and lean your head back against his chest looking up at him.

Azriel snakes his arms around you, squeezing your sides and slotting his lips over yours. On e you break apart he brings the fork up to your lips. After he fed you breakfast you both change into comfy clothes.

“What would you like to do now for our lazy day?” He asks pulling you into his chest, placing kisses on your head. “Hmm…can we hangout in the sitting room.” Azriel picks you up bridal style, giving you an adoring look.

Sitting on the couch you and Azriel talked about anything and everything, he read to you a bit, and even rubbed your feet. By the time you looked at the clock it was early evening. “Oh gosh, it’s nearly dinner time.”

You go to sit up but Azriel beats you and gently sits you back down. “Relax my love, I’ll handle dinner.” You smile up at him while holding one of his scarred hands. “But I still want to sit with you. Can I come to the kitchen with you?”

Azriel let out a small chuckle, “Of course you can. You never have to ask my love.” You wrapped yourself around him as he carried you into the kitchen. Setting you down on the island he kissed you, cupping your face and pressing his forehead against yours.

“I love you, y/n.” You lean into Azriel more, “I love you too, Azriel.” Giving you one last kiss he set out to collect ingredients around the kitchen.

Watching Azriel cook was satisfying and very hot. Seeing him do this normal everyday thing makes you happy. You know how much he loves being “normal” on his days off.

As he was plating dinner you were staring at him with a lovesick smile. “Az.” He ignores the food in front of him, focusing on you, “thank you, for today. It was the best day ever.” Everything you had ever done, all the bad shit you’ve both been through, it was worth it to see that glowing smile on his face.

He dropped what he was holding, rushing over to you pulling you into a tight embrace. You return it and nuzzle your face in his neck, breathing in his scent. You stay like that for a long time.

When your break apart you cup his face in your hands. “Let’s eat. I’d hate your hard work to go to waste.”

tags: @nyotamalfoy @auggiesolovey @bubybubsters @baybay123455 @msiecrane @aroseinvelaris @twsssmlmaa

[vclvetfleur]

Obedient Chapter 7

roman roy x fem! reader

Summary: Roman begs y/n to go to a retreat with him.

Warnings: Logan Roy, implied ED, Kendall being a dead beat father

Word Count : 4.8K

Notes: This by far was my favorite chapter to write so far into the series

Chapter 7: French bread

You had got Roman’s order, getting him some breakfast too as you walked into the building. You walked through see Kendall turning the corner. You waved at him despite all the things in your hand. You had worn one of your new outfits today and Kendall took immediate notice to it. “Uh- wow, look at you.” He laughed. You twirled around to show off the details of the new outfit you pulled together. “No more $40 white button up.” He was energetic for the morning. But Kendall was always up early. He went to the gym at 6 am and then got his own green smoothies before work. Roman took notice of this and tried to start working out but gave up after a couple of months. He only kept his trainer for a couple of months because he was nice to look at, but he didn’t even work out most of their sessions.

“No more $15 white button up.” You corrected him, putting an emphasis on the price. Kendall didn’t even know you could buy something for $15. His smoothie was just $1.49 short of how much your shirt costed. And he only got one add on put into it.

You heard a loud repeated banging, seeing Roman trying to get your attention. He put his hands up and shook his head at you essentially asking you ‘what the fuck?’. You said your goodbyes to Kendall before rushing into Roman’s office. “Heeeeeey boss. I got you a little something.” You sang as you waved the breakfast sandwich that was wrapped up in white paper and a bag in his face.  He looked up as if you were an absolute nutcase. You set it down, with his coffee before waiting for a smart ass comment. Or at least a compliment.

He looked up at you after a brief moment of not looking at you. “What the fuck are you standing there for? Are you breaking the news about my parents’ divorce or something?” He questioned you. You would be madder, but it was too creative. You just went quiet before sitting down in your usual spot. You looked over at his desk, looking at what he was looking at. He barely even had anything open on his computer. It was just that opening page of when you opened up Chrome.

“You okay? Are you sad I didn’t text you all day yesterday?” You began questioning him. He shook his head no before opening the bag and undoing the wrapping of his sandwich. He checked what was in it before deciding if it was good enough to put into his body. You think this was the first time he actually ate in front of you. Not a snack, but an actual meal. He usually just had small snack that he had maybe once or twice a day. But never an actual meal. Even at the restaurant. He ordered food, just didn’t eat it. You never really thought about it though.

“I know I tell you to shut up all the time, but it’s kind of unsettling so can you please talk?” You begged. You didn’t enjoy the quietness. It wasn’t like Roman. It felt wrong.

In reality, Roman wasn’t mad, he just felt unseen. His insecurities got the best of him and watching you practically glow around Kendall rather than your usual routine with him. He felt unseen; pushed aside for his better older brother.

“Alright, so uh-fucking what did my emails say?” He turned around to face you, eating the sandwich you had gotten him

“Weeeeell, your dad is trying to close the Pierce deal.” You began. Roman groaned, putting his face in his hands, laying back. It’s not that he didn’t agree with the deal, but he had no way of even getting to them. They didn’t like him, and he didn’t seem to enjoy them entirely either. His siblings have been working the deal a lot better than them. Kendall was a lot more charismatic and Shiv, who had just started, was already ahead of them based off of Nan. One of his hands dropped as the other dragging up his face, trying to think of what to do. It’s a deal Logan has been trying to do for a while now. Logan has been in touch with their network CEO, Rhea. They had taken a liking to one another. And by liking, they were having an affair. And Rhea had been working over timing because of it to get Logan to get a chance to set up a meeting to discussion the terms and what would it take to sell. And Rhea finally established a meeting with the two families to meet.

“Well-uh-fuck what does- what’s the next step? What else did it say?” Roman asked. You just read it over and he saw just the simple writing of ‘Pierce deal tomorrow. Don’t fuck it up.’

You didn’t know how to tell him. You just looked up at Roman, not sure how to phrase it.

“Uh- just he said don’t fuck it up.” You ripped the band aid. It barely seemed to affect Roman. He was trying to prove to his dad he was ready for the CEO position. He had been going on useless fucking trips for his management training, which he had just finished about a week before you had gotten hired. But now Shiv worked here. Or at least she thinks she does. She acted like it. After a trip out in one of their summer homes, Logan offered the position to not just Roman but Shiv too. All just a ploy to make Shiv quit her job in politics and join Logan as a new pawn to play whenever things got too tough for Kendall or Roman to play mind game with their male investors.

“That’s it? What the fuck is the Pierce deal tomorrow? What the fuck is he even-?” He asked frustrated about the lack of details. He never knew what was ever really happening. He went through his phone to see what was happening tomorrow and you did too. You just texted Jess about it. Apparently, there was a family trip that was going to happen at one of Nans houses. Everyone in the family would be there apparently to make them look stable. Even Connor and his paid girlfriend.

“Uh Rome, so tomorrow you and your family are going to Nan’s tomorrow for some kind of retreat.” You filled him in. Roman seemed displeased. He finally remembered about it, but wasn’t sure if it was even going to do a single fucking thing for him.

“Uh-fuck- fine okay. Can you come with me?” He asked you. You didn’t know how to respond, just staring at him as his eyes pleaded with you. They looked like they belong to a sad little puppy. They seemed so desperate. As if he really needed you with him. He couldn’t believe he could do this retreat without you there with him. “Come on- fucking-uh please.” He tried to get the word out as best as possible.

“Alright Rome, I’ll come with tomorrow. Don’t worry.” You offered a gentle smile. You checked for the time that it was going to happen, seeing you both had to be with the family by 10 am tomorrow to come to Nan’s together as if you were truly this happy stable normal family, despite it being further from the truth. But after Kendall’s last couple of stunts for the last couple of months, Logan was really trying to push media coverage on the entire family, posing photoshoots and ‘therapy’ for the only bases being on some magazine.

“Fuck! That means Connors gonna be in the city tonight.” Roman found another thing to be upset about. Roman mainly punched down at Connor because if Roman wasn’t the punching bag, then Connor was. Cause no matter how desperate and sad Roman was, Connor was the forgotten and less involved sibling. Nothing he did for Logan, or the others mattered. He had no say in anything based off of the fact he wasn’t involved. But because of the pushing and shoving the family did to Connors ego, he decided to run for president. Yup. From lonely farmer in wherever fucking state that did nothing all day to president of the United States. Despite not ever having a job his entire life; now he wanted the most important job in the country.

“I met Connor the night of the party by the way, why didn’t you tell me you had another brother?” You asked.

“I don’t. He’s adopted.” Roman lied, but you gave him an annoyed look before he gave you the right answer. “Fuck-fine- he’s my half-brother. His mom went fucking crazy, and dad sent him away to school. Even so, I didn’t grow up with him. I was still shitty my pants by the time he was in college.” Roman admitted. You appreciated the honesty from Roman. You decided to not make him too uncomfortable, editing your notes down. You just decided to keep things that were more important to give him a light enough day before you went into your day with him.

You made plans to meet with Roman by 9 am at his apartment to get ready for the trip. He said he really needed to support. Which was huge for Roman to say since he never willing telling people that kind of stuff.

That evening you spent the entire night trying to set up for the trip. You had to. You were going to be around Logan for most of the day. Along with other high status people. Luckily, you’d have Jess and Roman and Kendall there to calm your nerves. You just planned on staying with Jess for most of it. But something told you Roman was going to need you a lot. You got up early enough in the morning to get ready and pick something nice, but casual enough. This was a chance to really show off. You picked a vintage Chanel dress that you had bought at a vintage boutique in Soho 2 days ago with Jess. You accessorized before checking the time. Fuck. You grabbed what you thought you’d need. Your purse that had spare makeup, a hairbrush, your work iPad, a charger and a portable battery, a spare toothbrush, perfume, your wallet and keys and snack bars in case you or anyone got hungry. You were constantly ready for disaster now that you work with the Roy’s. You packed to make sure you were not forgot anything essential. Your rushed out and tried to make it to Roman’s as soon as possible, but you were gonna be a bit later than 9 like you promised him. You sent him a text to let him know.

You knocked on his door before letting yourself in. He had unlocked it for you. You got him coffee to make up for being late and croissant.

“Hey Rome, you here?” you shouted. You heard him call up from upstairs as you tried to follow his voice. He had already gotten dressed and ready but needed help deciding on sun glasses. They both honestly looked the same to you. You just picked whatever before reminding him of his breakfast.

“Well fucking look at you- “He laughed. You weren’t sure if he was mocking or complimenting you. You looked down at your outfit and up at him worried.

“Is it too much?” You were now anxious. You didn’t want to be over dressed, but you wanted to leave a good impression. Roman didn’t care how ‘much’ it seemed. He liked it but was never able to give a compliment that didn’t also sound like an insult or mocking or sexual misconduct.

“I mean- you look hot.” He shrugged, taking a bite of his croissant. You smacked his arm, him retreating away from you. “Hey! You were asking for it!” He protested.

“Screw you, fucking idiot.” You rolled your eyes. He mocked, putting his hand up and mimicked your voice as his hand closed together.

“Come on. Don’t be so uptight now.” He sat on the edge of his bed, pulling black shoes on. “I mean, you, me, in my bedroom. We have less than half an hour if you wanna bang one out.” He suggested. You chose to ignore his advances to you. But in honest, you would pounce on him immediately if you could. The idea of your bodies on top of one another before having to act professional in a car full of people with the knowledge of what you did earlier was so appealing to you. It felt wrong, but it was just a fantasy anyways. You and Roman were never going to go there.

“Does this still count as work place harassment?” You asked before getting a text from Jess telling you that you had 5 minutes till the car was pulling up to pick you and Roman up. Shiv and Tom were first before picking up Logan, Connor then Roman. There was going to be a morning debrief before going to Nans. Rhea would be joining too. You pulled Roman off his bed, telling him you both had to go. “Come on, we have half an hour.” Roman whined before you showed him the time. You apparently didn’t. You left with him beside you as the car had just pulled up. Roman got in first before you followed. Kendall sat with Shiv and Tom up front with Jess behind him. You sat with Jess and Roman had to sit beside you. Connor decided to just go to Logans early enough, not wanting to cause any inconveniences.

“Hey fuckers, so what’s the move on with this fucking deal?” Roman made his entrance in the car before sitting. “You both brought your assistance? You both are really not capable of doing anything at all?” Shiv judged Roman. You just sat quietly, sipping your drink. You knew it wasn’t a jab at you whatsoever. Jess knew not to. It was more of a tactic to make her brothers feel insecure.

“Just admit you want one and fucking get one.” Roman fired back. “If I didn’t then I wouldn’t of gotten a fucking baguette…” “croissant” you corrected him. “Whatever, some fucking French bread and coffee. Maybe if you did, you’d be less of a fucking bitch.” Roman teased. It caught you off guard definitely. You looked over at Jess, she seemed unfazed by it. Shiv scrunched her face up and rushed her body quickly towards Roman to make him flinch. His hands came up quickly to protect his body before relaxing. “Ha-ha. Fucking good one.” Roman said sarcastically.

The ride was short, like most of their rides throughout the city. Logans house was only a few blocks away from Romans. You stayed behind with Jess as the siblings went ahead of you.

“What was that about?” You asked Jess. “He just called her a bitch?” Jess shrugged it off. “Romans said worse.” Jess was right. That’s why everyone had such low expectations of him.

You both went in about your mornings as Jess had to run to make calls with certain people and do Kendall’s errand before having to break the news to Rava that Kendall wasn’t picking his kids up today. Rava was livid to say the very least, calling Kendall immediately after. Today was Kendall’s day with the kids and he decided to talk Rava into letting him to take another day with them. This was the fourth time in a row.

You walked into the apartment being welcomed by a slender tanned older woman. “Hello ma chérie.” She greeted Jess, giving her a hug. Jess had gotten to know Marcia for a while now. Marcia was truly one of the only people in the family who was careful and sweet. “And this is?” She asked. “Hi, I’m Roman’s assistant. Y/n.” You smiled, giving a hand out to greet her. She put her hands over yours and smiled at your warmly. It felt almost motherly. It warmed your heart a bit. “Do you girls want anything?” She offered. “Uh- I can get it myself. I can get you something though.” You offered, but her hand went up in protest.

“No my darling, I have people for that. Don’t worry.” She tried to comfort your nerves. She knew how scared you were just by looking at you. She could read anyone easily. “You look wonderful by the way.” She was inflating your ego. Your shoulders went up, your smile growing.

“Y/n.” Roman called. He waved you down. You apologize to Marcia and Jess before going to Roman.

“Huh?” You whispered to him.

“So, what about the offer from earlier? My dad has camera around so we could get it on film.” Roman whispered back, a humored look on his face.

“You’re a fucking asshole.” You talked in your normal tone.

“Okay okay. Uh- fuck. I’m gonna actually need you for something though.” He tried to get you to not walk away, grabbing your wrist and forearm. You raised your eyebrows, a way of asking what it was that he exactly needed from you. “You went to college for this shit, right? I need you to look shit up on Nan and just give me whatever notes you can.” He tried to reason. He needed to find a way to connect to the old hag. You agreed before he led you into the meeting. Jess sat behind Kendall, deciding to take notes for Kendall as well.

It was a long hour of planning and organizing a strategy of who had to play to what part. It was like watching a coach talking to a football team, but just about some news outlet. It got interrupted multiple times with Roman making off comment jokes and Shiv and him arguing. During the meeting you were able to dig up enough on everyone to make sure Roman had enough to slither his way into this deal.

You broke off into different cars, telling Roman your notes, going over them multiple times.

Your cars stopped at a landing pad, watching as two men were waiting for you all. You looked behind them to see 2 helicopters on the landing pad. Your head shot to Roman, panicking almost immediately. “A fucking helicopter? I thought we were fucking going to their place just by car.” Roman just seemed to laugh at you. You had no choice, but to go with them. You strapped in as you asked the pilot multiple times if this was the correct way to do it. You went over it with them probably 10 times before asking how safe everything was. Kendall tried to reassure you it was safe, with Jess just trying to talk to you about her first experience and how it wasn’t that bad. You nodded, taking deep breathes. The propellors began to make a loud whooshing sound, causing you to grab onto Romans forearm for a sense of safety.

“Would you relax? It’s fucking 10 minutes.” Roman tried to put up his attitude as if he had an issue with you holding onto him, but he didn’t. He found that you were the only one who he felt comfortable enough to let hold or touch him. He put his glasses on with his free hand before leaning his head on his hand, hiding a smile behind his fingers and they mostly covered his mouth.

Before you knew it you all had landed right after Logan’s helicopter did. You undid your seat belts as fast as possibly, trying to get off as soon as you could. Logan had just gotten out with Marcia and Shiv. Everyone just followed his lead. He tried to pose the family as stable as the Pierces seemed to be. Which you honestly doubted now that you’ve been spending time with the Roy family.

Nan introduced herself to Logan and they both played their roles perfectly. Logan played the happy and proud dad part so well that you even believed him. Everyone was then formally introduced as they tried to network and find something to desperately talk about. But the only ones that truly mattered were Rhea, Logan and Nan.

You just stood back with Jess, knowing you had no part in this. You had no say in any deal. You didn’t even need to speak to any of them. You were just here for Roman’s sanity. 

The house was soon filled, but the party was kept in one room. “Jesus this is fucking pretentious.” You whispered to Jess.

“This is not even the most pretentious part of the night. Watch.” Jess giggled. You just went through your notes with Jess quietly to compare and see if you both had missed anything. Nan interrupted the talking to introduce some stupid bullshit product they had made to get more money. You just joined despite not even having a glass in your hand like everyone before going back to Jess. Whatever the fuck the product was, Logan took a blow from it.

Everyone took this as a way to push some kind of project. Even Connor as he just went on and on about politics. Some others took this to boost their own egos. Or insult the other.

You felt a hand on the small of your back, your body jumping and turning around quickly to see Nan. Logan had his eyes dead set on you from afar.

“Oh hi.” You tried to say in a cheery tone, unsure of why she was even acknowledging you.

“I never seen you around before.” She commented. She had been dealing with this deal for a while, so she had gotten associated with everyone about 2-3 weeks ago. “Oh here, let me get you a drink.” She offered, grabbing a drink off one of her servers tray table. You thanked her quietly before taking a sip only on the bases you needed to. You didn’t like whiskey, but you needed to play a role.

“Oh uh- yeah, I got hired recently. Oh wow-“you said after taking a sip, taking another sip. You took theatre in high school and one or two classes in college. “I understand why this deserved a speech.” You lied. It was disgusting.

“Stop, you’re too cute.” She chuckled. “Who are you in association with?” You didn’t understand. She was asking what your position was and who exactly did you work for. You looked around before finally looking back at Nan. “I-uh-I just do basic stuff for Roman. He wanted to have someone help him around since he started with taking more responsibilities at the company to help manage things around for him. I’m just his assistant. But I just graduated so you know everything from classes are still fresh in my memory.” You were panicked. She just tried to relax your nerves as she seemed to be comforting you. She had the same eyes that Marcia had given you, except more authentic. Like she actually gave a fuck.

“Well the best knowledge you’ll ever get is from experience.” She gave you a tip. You nodded, taking another sip only on the basis of you wanted to calm your nerves down.

“I’m just lucky to have the opportunity to work for the company. It’s truly been an experience for me.” You tried to inflate the company ego. “They’ve really treated me like family here.” You lied. You didn’t even speak to half of the family until today. You still haven’t had an interact with Shiv. You got berated by Logan not even a couple days ago.

“See, and that’s what I always look for.” Nan told Rhea to your face. “None of these other people will tell me anything authentic y’know cause they have more to lose, but you. Thank you. Truly.” She put her hands on each side of your arm. “I will wanna hear your input later on my dear.” She assured me before walking off. You were in complete shock. You assumed you would be invisible today. Roman rushed to you with an amused look.

“Hey, you okay?” He asked. Nan was barely away from the both of you. She took another mental note that despite me being just an assistant, the younger son of the father in the company, my employer, had just tried to check on me. She believed you. You nodded, downing the drink.

“Yeah-I’ll be fine. Just unexpected.” You mumbled, Roman let out a breathe, trying to reassure you it was fine. “It’s gonna be alright.” He tried to reassure her. It probably wasn’t and Roman knew that. She was trying to psych you out and find a reason not to make the deal. But you gave her no reason to. You made her think Logan was more genuine than she thought he was, even if those expectations of Logan were so low for her.

Jess tried to remind you it wasn’t anything serious. You were at a dinner. Sometimes the investors talked to Jess or ignored her. It depended if they saw assistants as people or not. And Nan, despite being massively rich, did consider others.

But she has heard rumors about Logan. She wanted to see how one of his employees had felt. Not in a super direct way, but subtle enough to get hints. Until the very end I guess.

Rhea gathered everyone slowly to bring them into a private room to discuss the game plan once again. Once the door shut, Logan began to interrogate everyone on what they had apparently done wrong. First Shiv on making jokes about Marks PhD and then the entire room for not getting along and going with the original plan. Kendall tried to shush Connor as Connor tried to stand his own ground. “And Romulus, when you laugh, please do it at the same volume as everyone else. We didn’t get you at a hyena farm.” Logan was out to get everyone in the room. “Not even to follow up with the possible end of this fucking deal. What did Nan say to you?” He then stared at you. You couldn’t tell if someone was behind you, looking around before Logan had one more outburst. “Fucking you. The one dresses as if she’s ready for a fucking runway show.” That was a harsh blow.

“Uh-well..” you tried to start trying to remember exactly what was said. “Go on.” He was impatient. His tone was extremely mocking.

“She just asked who I was, what I did. I told her I just started and I’m just helping out Roman.” You tried to be quick not to upset Logan. “Exactly what did you say?” He was really scary like this. You nodded, trying to recount everything.

“Just that uh- well Roman was taking on more responsibilities and dealt with his work usually himself, but now with all the work, he needed an assistant. And that I just finished school. She kind of told me school wasn’t as good as actually working so I told her I’m getting good experience and that you all treat me like a family.” You tried to get every detail of what you’ve said right.

“Oh really? Rhea?” He asked her, knowing she had been with you. Thank fucking whatever the fuck, Rhea confirmed your story. “Nan seems to enjoy her, Logan. She said she trusted her.” She tried to reason. You had no idea why Nan seemed to trust you though. You looked at Logan, trying to keep a relaxed stature to yourself.  Jess was right behind you, rubbing your back to comfort you. She knew you were probably internally having a panic attack. “Nan said she can’t trust anyone else since they’re either 1. Your kids, 2. Someone you’ve known for 30+ years or 3. they’ve known the family too long.” She explained.

“Okay… fine... You, try to butter up Nan more, you too Pinky. Fucking act as if she’s your grandma at Thanksgiving fucking dinner.” He gave you a role. You looked at Jess, but she couldn’t tell you anything in all honesty. She usually avoided talking to investors or people like Nan for this very reason. She didn’t want to be involved. “And Jess, you fix Shiv’s mess.” He appointed her a job. Shiv’s ego took a blow, trying to argue she could just apologize. “No cause apparently a fucking assistant who runs around getting coffee for my idiot children can do a better fucking job than my actual children.” Did this mean Logan appreciated what you did? Is this his way of saying you did a good job? You didn’t see the appeal of it.

Shiv scoffed before leaving the room. “Well, fuck.” Jess whispered to you. You nodded, agreeing with her.

Notes: If you hadn't seen my other post, just like the show, everyone is going to be an awful person moment and have at least one scene of them being the absolute worst. even OC.

Chapter 8

[fangirlingfromdownunder]

A Sweet Mishap - Chapter 4

Pairing - Jensen Ackles x Reader 

A/N: Here's the first of the completely new chapters. I hope you enjoy. Let me know if you want to be added to the taglist.

A Sweet Mishap Masterlist | Main Masterlist

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───

I wake up to the deliberately annoying sound of my alarm blaring from my bedside. I look out at the still-dark skyline outside and slide off the alarm before checking my notifications. A smile instantly replaces my sleepy scowl as I read the messages that filtered in overnight.

I know it’s late, but I’m wired from sleeping on the flight… even though it was only three hours. I know I should be better at this flying thing with how much I travel for work but I guess I never learn Also…I could get used to you colliding with me 😉 God that was too cheesy, I’m sorry, forget I said anything, I blame the jetlag! I need to stop before I permanently scare you away if it’s not already too late. Good night

I smile at his dorkiness before dragging myself out of bed. As much as I’d love nothing more than to message him back now and text all day, my shift starts in an hour and I need to get ready first. I force myself through the motions of showering, donning my uniform, eating a light breakfast, and brushing my hair and teeth before slipping out the door. The sun is just beginning to rise overhead as I stroll through the quiet streets. As much as I’m not a morning person, I do enjoy this little slice of quiet before the rush of the day.

Once I get to the cafe, I greet the baker who is finalising the baked goods for the day. I help him stock the fridges, leaving the tray of burnt muffins on the bench in the kitchen as per his instructions and then open the store.

With the Christmas rush still in full swing, the morning passes quickly but leaves me exhausted. Once I finally get a break I take one of the slightly burned and therefore, unsaleable candy cane muffins and a bottle of water and sit at a small table out the back of the cafe. I pull out my cracked phone and finally allow myself to reply.

I sell festive drinks & snacks to people who haven’t yet had their morning coffee - It’s gonna take more than a jet lag-induced comment to scare me away Watching you behead someone on TV though, that was rough You sure I can trust you? I promise I’d never hurt you, that is unless I catch you draining someone of their blood Wait! Are you working? I didn’t mean to disturb you Not at the moment I can chat for a bit So, you promise you won’t drink anyone? I get queasy when someone cuts their finger, so no chance My show’s probably not for you then The eye candy’s worth it But I also live alone, so horror is generally a no-go That’s ok. As I said, it’s more interesting to me that you’re not a fan There are no expectations to live up to But eye candy, eh? I don’t know about Dean but there was the vamp was pretty sexy Till he lost his head anyway Oh…🥺 Nah, Dean’s alright too… Though I do think he’s the most scary. I don’t think he would take kindly to wearing a cup of hot chocolate Probably not But he’d find you charming He’d probably use it as an excuse to try and get your number He’d have more confidence than shyly writing his number on a coaster and hoping the pretty girl makes the next move You think I’m pretty? You don’t need to try and flatter me You’ve only seen me when I’m exhausted and covered in rotting milk If you’d seen me on a day when I’d actually put in some effort then maybe I’d believe you Then maybe one day I’ll have to give you a reason to dress up for me Take you on a real date You plan on coming back to New York? It’s not in my schedule yet But maybe in the new year Unless I can tempt you to come to Texas? I live in a single-bedroom apartment in downtown New York And I work in a cafe I can’t afford airfares and hotel accommodations in Texas at Christmas! How about if it was all-expenses-paid? Jensen…

Just as I’m typing a reply my colleague bursts through the backdoor. I check the time and realise it’s been over ten minutes since I came outside. I quickly type out a halfhearted excuse and shut off my phone before scurrying back inside.

Sorry, my break’s over. I gotta get back to work. Talk later

Despite going through the motions; making coffees, heating muffins, and delivering orders, my mind continues to wander back to Jensen’s offer and my lack of response. We barely know each other, how could I let him pay for a holiday in Texas? While a holiday sounds like heaven after working my ass off all year, I refuse to let it be at someone else’s expense, even if that person is a successful and wealthy actor. I refuse to be seen as a gold digger, even in my own eyes. Also, I can’t stand the thought of him finding out my true passion and then accusing me of using him to get a leg up in the industry. By the end of my shift, I decide to come clean about everything.

Back in my apartment, I shower again and change into comfy clothes before collapsing on the couch. I switch on the TV, not caring what’s on, just looking for a little comforting background noise. The random Doctor Phill reruns don’t take long to lull me to sleep.

The continual vibrating of my phone on the coffee table drags me back to the land of the living. I rub my eyes to wake myself up and check who’s blowing up my phone.

I’m sorry if I came on too strong I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable You’re right, we barely know each other I promise I’m gonna stop making stupid comments and just give you space I’m sorry again

I mull over the messages for a few minutes and type and delete multiple replies before mustering up all the courage I can and giving in and pressing the call button instead. I listen to the dial tone for a few rings before he finally picks up. Wanting to smooth things over before he jumps in all apologetically I rush to speak first as soon as the call connects.

“Look, I know we’re texting people, not calling people. But this conversation needed to be had like this.”

“Are you telling me to lose your number? Because I will if that’s what you want.”

“No. I just think we’ve been living in some fantasy, and maybe you’re used to that since you’re an actor. But here in New York, no matter how badly I want to be a performer, I have to live in the real world. Any handouts I take, and any relationships I make will be used against me.”

“A holiday is not a handout. But wait, you want to be a performer?”

“During the year, I took acting and singing classes. I also auditioned for roles on Broadway. But obviously, I didn’t get any of the roles. But I swear, I didn’t recognise you when we met the other day. And I don’t intend to use you to get a role. I’m not a gold digger. I want to do this myself,” I ramble, hoping he believes me.

“Hey, I’m not accusing you of anything. I believe you. I’ve met people who are just trying to use me, I know the signs. So unless you’re a much better actress than I’m giving you credit for..?”

“None of this has been acting. I promise.”

“I believe you.” I hear knocking and someone calling out from the other end of the line. “I’m so sorry. They’re ready for me. I've got to go do soundcheck. Can I call you back later?”

“Soundcheck? Yeah, yeah. That’s fine. Bye, Jensen.”

“I’ll call you and explain later…or maybe tomorrow…I promise I’ll call you!”

The line falls silent and I sigh. I drag myself off the couch to make a sandwich. Just as I sit down to eat it my phone starts buzzing again. I glance at the caller ID and answer it with a smile.

“Hey, Stella!” I greet my best friend happily.

“Hey, Bestie! We still on for tonight?”

“Tonight?”

“You promised you’d help me with my wedding! I’m getting married in three weeks and there’s still so much to do!”

“Oh yeah! Of course! I can be there in say 30?”

“You’re the best, Bestie!”

“I know! See you soon!”

I hang up and finish eating my sandwich, clean up, throw on some warmer clothes and head out to catch the subway.

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───

Taglist: @stoneyggirl2 @hobby27

[ponyosmom35]

where do we go from here?

Simon Ghost Riley x reader

part 3 to fight (def read those first if you haven't yet)

synopsis: reader has had enough of Simon avoiding her.

master list:

https://www.tumblr.com/ponyosmom35/733401347573088256/simon-ghost-riley?source=share

The rest of the night was quiet, the air was heavy. As much as she didn’t want to admit it, she wasn’t happy with Simon. The past night had been so much to handle, so much to process. The way he handled it all shocked her. She was disappointed and wished he would talk to her. Though they ‘made up’ he’d been avoiding her for two days. He would briefly greet her in the morning before going to the gym, or running an errand. She hoped that they could move past this horrible thing that happened, that horrible fight they had. But Simon seemed to make it his mission to avoid it at all costs. 

After two days she was sick of it, tired of waking up alone. She missed him. Now that he was leaving she wanted to make her remaining time with him count. But she felt like he was pushing himself away to make it easier to leave. She refused to put up with this. She loved him more than anything in the world, and she was going to fight for them. She’d tossed and turned all night thinking about how she would approach the subject, she didn’t want to upset him, especially after how upset he still was about what he’d done during his nightmare. She wanted to have a genuine conversation. Unable to sleep, she woke up at 7 am, knowing that she’d catch Simon before he went on his run. He’d always been an early riser, he didn’t believe in sleeping in. 

She made coffee and prepped some sausage, eggs, and toast for him to enjoy before he left. She waited patiently for him to rush down the stairs, his wide eyes searching for her. His body relaxes upon seeing her sitting at the barstool with coffee in hand. 

“What are you doing awake this early?” he asks in confusion 

“I made you breakfast, something small to give you protein” she says softly

“Thank you love” he says kissing her head as he sits beside her to eat. 

The pair fall into silence as he munches on his food. She leans her head on her hands as she looks at him. Her eyes clouded with millions of thoughts and worries. “What’s going on in that head of yours?” he asks 

She smiles and sits up, leaning her head on his shoulder. He wraps his arm around her and pulls her into his chest. His steady heartbeat reminded her that he was still here, and she needed him to be present. “When do you leave?” she asks 

Simon’s posture shifts as he grows tense. “Monday” 

“That’s in three days” she responds as her heart sinks, a heavy weight collapsing on her chest. “I hoped there would be more time” 

“No time to waste”

“I wanted to apoligize for reacting the way I did, I shouldn’t have blamed you for my frustrations. I’m upset that you’re leaving, and selfishly I didn’t want you to go. But I would never ask you to stay, I know that this is what you do, and it’s who you are, I want you to know that I love you for it” she says taking his hand, focusing on how he sets his food down to give her his full attention. “I am more than capable of planning a wedding, and if there’s anything I need your help on then we’ll talk about it when you can. Plus I have my parents, I have grandma, and my friends, I have more than enough support, We have more than enough support for this. I am going to be just fine, I need you to know that. So I want you to stop pushing me away, the only thing you’re doing is making this harder” she finishes 

Simon clenches his jaw and runs his hand over his hair. He refused to meet her gaze as he held his hand against his mouth, she could tell that he was trying to find the right words to say. 

“You have nothing to apoligize for, I fucked up. I reacted like a right fucking dickhead. I wish there was a way to get out of it, I would stay, I want to be here through every step of it all. I’ve been so fucking out of my mind, I’ve let my fears get into my head and I’ve taken that out on the one person who doesn’t deserve it. I hurt you” he says bowing his head in shame.

“It was an accident, Simon you have to forgive yourself”

“How can I?”

“Stop viewing yourself like some sort of monster! You’re the kindest man I’ve ever met, you are so gentle and loving. You are simply the fucking greatest person I’ve ever met, it kills me that you torture yourself like this. You deserve so much better. I wish I could take all of this pain out of your head and carry it for you. But I can’t, so I’m begging you to stop letting it ruin you. It’s killing you Si, I can see it. I’m not saying that this is something you can just forget about, I understand that but dwelling on it will never make it go away, you’ll be stuck with it forever. There is no blame, no one takes responsibility for this. It happened, now it’s up to us to figure out where to go from here. I’m all in, you know that”

“Thank you” he says, looking down at her with tears in his eyes. He nods and pulls her into a hug. She moves from the seat and allows him to wrap his body around her. She knew just how much Simon was saying with that hug. For what his words lack, his touch makes up for. He was so passionate, she always admired that about him. He didn’t have to break down, he didn’t have to apoligize profusely, she understood. She didn’t need the words, she just needed him.

[moonlightazriel]

Home sweet home/// Azriel X F!Reader

Summary: “Hey, As holiday season is here , I'm really craving something domestic fluff 😭❤......Could you please write something about Azriel and reader spending weekend together, like total lazy domestic fluff..Laying and cuddling in the bed, sitting in the bathtub together and sharing some of the most intimate and deep moments together, and just a sweet romantic weekend together 🙈❤....Found this pics so attached here ..💞”

Warnings: None

Word Count: 1,1K

Notes: This is an easy request since all I do every weekend is lay down and spend some quality time with my partner 😂😂🥹 So I'm familiar with being lazy. Thank you @cherryjain17 for this request ❤️❤️

Main Masterlist

Azriel’s arm felt heavy as he held my waist, my face pressed on his soft chest as he breathed lightly, his wings shielding the sun light that peaked through the curtains, his body so warm against mine that it was really hard not to fall asleep again.

I removed his arms slowly, he shifted underneath me but kept sleeping, quietly I slid away from him, my whole body shivering as a wave of coldness spread as soon as I stump my foot on the ground. It was the beginning of winter, the streets starting to get white from the snow and the winds freezing our bones.

I opened the windows, the snowflakes falling, a fluffy blanket covering the streets, I loved days like this, I clapped a little and started rushing outside, I jumped on the snow, my back pressed on the soft snow as I giggled like a child, rubbing my arms and legs on the snow, forming snow angels.

“What are you doing over there?” Azriel asked and i rose my head, looking at him. “You’re going to catch a cold” He marched towards me, his agile hands grabbing my waist and launching me over his shoulder as he dragged me home.

“You’re no fun.” I grumped and Azriel nodded.

“You’ll be thanking me later.” He dropped me on the kitchen chair, and I popped my tongue out for him, he patted my head like a dog. I watched as he moved, preparing the breakfast, placing the coffee mug in front of me and a plate filled with bacon and pancakes.

“You should drop your job as spymaster and open a restaurant” He laughed as he sat in front of me, eating his own food and sipping his coffee. “I’m sure the shadows will like it” One of his shadows wrapped itself on my wrist and I smiled. “See? They agree.”

“Oh yeah, I forgot that you know about my shadows more than I do.” He giggled and I rolled my eyes at him.

“They’re my best friends, of course I do.” Winking at him, I got up, taking care of the dishes as he finished his coffee. “You’re not going to work today, are you?”

“Nope, I’m all yours this weekend.” - I jumped on his lap, kissing his lips happily.

“Thanks to the Mother, I’m starting to get annoyed, having to share you with your husband AND your boyfriend.” Azriel laughed, his head falling backwards as he laughed, his whole body shaking.

“What do you want to do?” We ended up cuddling in the couch, a book in hands as I read to him out loud, before him, I would much rather hide away and enjoy a book by myself, but as soon as we started hanging out, I would seek his company every time i could, and when the bond snapped, we would just sit and read together, and if we were reading the same book, we would take turns reading to each other.

“Are you hungry? We should make cookies.” I said, after a few hours lazily laying on the couch. He agreed and we got up, my limbs tingling from being in the same position for such a long time.

We got everything we needed, I was focusing on mixing the ingredients when I felt something hitting the back of my head and a white cloud crossed my eyesight, I gasped, slowly turning to find him standing, his hands on his back and a innocent look on his face.

“You didn’t.” I grabbed some flour, throwing on his face, he closed his eyes and the amount hit his face, covering him in flour from head to toe. He used the sugar to throw my way, and I got down, the sugar covering my face as we kept throwing food at each other like two kids.

He ran after me, cornering me and cracking an egg on my head, I laughed and he kissed me, passionately as his hands spread the egg on my hair, making an even huger mess.

“Now I need a bath.” I frowned, looking at my state, completely dirty.

“Then let’s take a bath.” He led us to the bathroom, preparing a bath for us, we entered the tub, I leaned on him, my back pressed on his chest as we washed each other.

“Do you think that if we were birds, we’re still going to be mates?” I wondered, turning my head to him.

“Birds don’t have mates.” He said simply.

“Are you a bird?”

“No.”

“Then how do you know?” He closed his eyes, sighing heavily.

“Ok, you have a point. So maybe you’re my bird mate.” He giggled and I smiled. I got up from the bathtub, wrapping my hair on a towel and wearing a robe, getting to the mirror to start my skin care. Azriel showed up on my side, wearing a robe as well and watching closely while I applied a face mask. “I want that too.”

“You want a face mask?”

“I want my face to be as soft as yours is.” He stated, grabbing a bottle and reading it.

“Then look at me.” I demanded, applying the mask on his face and rubbing with a brush, he giggled as he looked at the mirror, the green mask covering his face. “Now we clean the kitchen while we wait for it to dry.” He groaned, following me to clean the mess.

This time everything went great, we cleaned the kitchen and I finished the cookies. We sat in front of the fireplace, listening to the fire sounds, the hot breeze warming our bodies as we eat the cookies and Azriel talked about his histories in the mortal realm.

“I should take you there sometime. You’re really going to enjoy.” He smiled at me, his chin covered in cookies crumbs, I cleaned him with my thumb.

“You think so?” He nodded. “Then we should go once we have some free time. I want to eat mortal food.”

“You won’t like it, tastes like water.”

“But water don’t have a taste.”

“Exactly my love.” I rolled my eyes. We talked more, for hours throughout the night, I listened to him until my eyelids got heavy, and I could barely keep awake. “Let’s get you to bed.” He said getting up and pulling me with him, he hugged me while we walked, we got under the covers and he kissed the top of my head. “Love you puppy.”

“Love you Az.” I kissed him, feeling the sleep consuming my body. “Hey Az?”

“Mm?”

“Can we do the exact same thing tomorrow?”

“Anything for you my love.”

[kazucafe]

new year’s day. [ modern au ] — i want your midnights, but i'll be cleaning up bottles with you on new year's day.

character: albedo x gn!reader genre: fluff, comfort author’s note: i know we’re literally in the middle of august but how can you expect me to wait until january to post this ?? anw i hope you enjoy reading!

it’s that time of the year again. people keep the city busy and awake as they wait for the clock to strike at midnight. the lights are ever so blinding and the music comes blasting from every direction. albedo meets you in the kitchen as you both rush to finish the party preparations.

‘is the cake ready?’ ‘are the dishes set on the table yet?’ ‘don’t forget to take out the trash!’ ‘guests are starting to arrive!’

all is well once the house is brimming with your families and friends, all glammed up and bringing wine bottles to share with the guests. you head on to the living room to catch up with what everyone’s been up to lately — ningguang is taking up a big project for her company; nilou recently got the role of lead dancer in a cultural festival performance; venti and zhongli traveled all around the world and tasted every existing wine; diluc has been expanding his tavern into different branches. the sound of lively chatter completely fills your ears that you didn't notice your partner until an arm wrapped around your waist from behind.

“‘bedo,” you greet him warmly, to which he responds with a smile. you dare say he looks ravishing in his suit and tie. “let’s sit over there.”

“you seem to be having fun,” he says in a sweet note as you both settle down on the couch. “and i must say, you always do look beautiful, my dearest.”

conversations on top of conversations took up the last hour of the year, and before you know it, midnight has arrived, and rounds of fireworks roared in celebration of the end of a year and the start of another. everyone talked and yelled and danced and sang and laughed, the sound of glasses clinking as they all cheered to a toast for a better year. sequin and silk dresses glimmering under the lights as brightly as the stars above you, cameras flashing amidst crowds, stiletto heels clicking and clacking against the hardwood floor, his fingers intertwining with yours, confetti falling like snow across the room— everything went by in a blur.

-

after what seemed like just a blink of an eye, morning light shines through the windows. the house now is a striking contrast to what happened the night before, only filled with the messy remnants of what used to be there — glitter and confetti scattered on the floor, empty plates and wine bottles, used glasses, dim lights, polaroids plastered on the walls and tables. you sit in silence for who knows how long, trying to take it all in, how it all happened so quickly and changed drastically overnight.

“good morning,” albedo yawns, distracting you from your thoughts. “let’s clean up after breakfast?”

you smile. all but one changed. all but one, and that was all that mattered.

minutes later, the smell of coffee welcomes itself into your system, and albedo calls you to eat with him. breakfast was relatively silent, but in a way that was comfortable. your thoughts from earlier came flooding back, but this time with a different emotion associated with it. you realize that albedo has been by your side not only on your highs and lows, but also on the days where nothing happens, where everything is as mundane as every other day of the week. he stays long after the party has ended, after the guests have all gone home.

after putting away all the dishes, sweeping the floor, and removing all the decorations, you both sit on the couch and turn on the tv (which hardly had any of your attention). albedo has long noticed your thoughtful silence, but chooses not to interfere until you break the silence.

“albedo?”

“yeah?”

“‘bedo.”

he smiles. “yes, darling?”

“‘bedo.”

you repeatedly utter his name, and he patiently plays along in between bouts of giggles, simply endeared by you. 

when you stop, you look at him. not his hair, or his vibrant eyes, or how he smiles at you, but him. you look at the person to whom you promised a lifetime’s worth of devotion and love. you stare at him as though he would disappear if you shift your eyes anywhere else, saying a silent prayer that he would always be the home you crawl back to after a long day at work, that he would stay with you through all your new years, through all your afterparties, through all your tuesdays.

poor albedo. intelligent as he may be, he has yet to find any clue as to what could be plaguing your mind so early in the morning. 

“dearest, is there anything bothering you?”

“... it’s not really bothering me,” you pause. “i’ve just been thinking.”

he blinks in anticipation of what you might say afterward, but you remain silent. instead, you approach him in an embrace. maybe, just maybe, your thoughts and feelings can reach him with just this.

“i hope i’ll never have to hear you laugh,” you whisper. “and only have memories of you to go back to.”

he caresses your hair before planting a gentle kiss on your forehead.

and in that silence, you found something timeless.

[neowinestainedress]

𝐆𝐋𝐈𝐌𝐏𝐒𝐄 𝐎𝐅 𝐔𝐒 — 𝐂𝐇. 𝟑

𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐓𝐖𝐎 — 𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓 — 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐓𝐇𝐑𝐄𝐄 — 𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐅𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐏𝐀𝐈𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆: lee haechan x oc ; na jaemin x oc 𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐑𝐄: fluff, slight angst, childhood best friends to lovers, strangers to lovers, exes to lovers, lovers to exes 𝐒𝐔𝐌𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐘: feelings that shouldn’t exist surface after jaemin proposes to do something with hyejin after haechan declined, and things start to get complicated. 𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐒: they discuss a artwork that could potentially be triggering but idk how to warn you, maybe don't look for it if you're too sensitive (there are animals involved) there's nothing graphic in the chapter ofc 𝐖𝐂: +5k 𝐀/𝐍: please, please, leave feedback if you liked it, and reblog so the story can reach more people! enjoy ♡

Mondays were the worst days of the week. Sunday night was already a bummer when she couldn’t sleep over at Haechan’s place, it was a trauma to be alone after two nights spent by his side. But the idea of having to start another week was even worst. 

“Who the fuck woke me up so soon?” Yeri yelled, stomping down the stairs as the horn kept honking outside. 

“We don’t know,” Ningning replied, shrugging as she continued eating her breakfast. 

“What do you mean you don’t know? Why don’t you check?” The blonde huffed, walking just as angrily to the window. “Isn’t that Haechan’s car?” 

Hyejin furrowed a brow, gulping down the last bit of coffee left in her mug and walking to her friend. “Why would it be?” 

“I don’t know, ask your crazy boyfriend what is he doing at seven in the morning waking the neighbourhood up?” 

“It’s really him, what?” Hyejin gasped, finally seeing him sitting in the passenger seat. 

“Oh, he’s so romantic,” Ningning whispered, bringing her hands on her chest while Yeri glared at her before huffing loudly and storming back to her room, hoping to sleep for at least thirty minutes more. “Come on, go outside!” 

“I’m wearing my nightwear.” 

“Why would he care, move,” her friend urged, pushing her out of the door. 

Her hesitation disappeared when she started running to his car with a big smile on her face. “Hyuck?” 

“Hi, babe,” he said, rolling down the window. “Want me to drop you to work?” 

Her smile widened as she moved her head up and down swiftly. “But I still have to get dressed.” 

“Yeah, I can see,” he giggled, moving his eyes on her frame quickly. “I know it’s early, but I thought we could have breakfast together at the bar next to the library, how’s that sound? They have your favourite sweets.” 

“God, you really want to spoil me today, don’t you?” 

Haechan snorted, clicking his tongue. “As if I don’t spoil you always.” 

She chuckled before taking a few steps back. “I’ll be back soon, wait for me.” 

“Yeah, don’t rush, we have time.” 

She couldn’t don’t rush when rushing meant spending more time with him, also her clothes were already picked up from the night before, so she only needed to wash up and get dressed, and after less than ten minutes she was sitting next to him in the car, ready to start the week. 

“You dress too well to stay in a library all day,” Haechan commented, quickly glancing at her outfit as he drove through the streets of Seoul. 

“Don’t make me blush.”

“You still blush at my compliments?” He teased, smirking smugly. And she rolled her eyes. “Stop pretending not to know the effect you have on me, you know I probably will never stop reacting like a teenager at her first crush.” 

Haechan chuckled before a sweet smile crossed his face. “Because I am your first crush.” 

A sigh rolled from her lips just thinking about it. Thinking back at all the years of yearning for him felt so strange now that she had him right where she always wanted him, and she knew there was no way she was going to leave that haze behind. 

“Unfortunately,” she joked, making him gasp dramatically as he brought one hand to his chest. 

“You should be so glad you have me in your life. Look at you, in less than five minutes I’ll buy you your favourite cupcakes, and then I’ll drive you to work, and I’ll come pick you up this afternoon.” 

“You’ll pick me up?” 

“Do you prefer the metro?” 

“Oh, hell, no,” she replied, trying to hold back the mindless smile, but this was the best Monday in a while. It felt nice, and not so heavy like any other ones where the fears and doubts would slump over her shoulders. And once again her happy moment was him, the only time when she didn’t feel her chest get so heavy. 

“And here we are,” Haechan stated, luckily finding a parking spot right in front of her library that was only a few steps away from the bar. 

“You weren’t so happy yesterday, does Monday bring you a good mood?” She asked, searching for his arms to intertwine with hers as they started making their way to the bakery. 

“What do you mean I wasn’t so happy yesterday?” 

“You were grumpy, and you just seemed, I don’t know, not like this.” 

“Blame it on the Sunday melancholy,” he laughed. “No, but I don’t know, I thought I was fine, just wanted to chill inside the house all day with you.” 

“And Jaemin,” she giggled, pushing the front door open. The smell of freshly baked sweets and bread filled her nose, and the day immediately got better. 

“Please,” he huffed, rolling his eyes. “He always clings to us, but I can’t complain, I missed having him around.” 

“I like him, he’s a fun guy and it’s so nice to talk with him.” 

“Yeah, but can we don’t focus on him even when we’re alone?” 

She laughed, nodding. “Yeah, I’m starving.” 

When the clock hit 5:30 pm, Haechan was outside of the library, waiting for Hyejin to come out. 

“Hi, honey,” he greeted, waving as he leaned against his car. “How was your day?” 

She looked happier, the smile on her face was too big for someone that usually hated the start of the week, and she almost jumped with every step she took. 

“Amazing,” Hyejin replied, throwing herself in his arm, surprising him so much he barely reciprocated the hug. 

“Really? Why?” He asked, opening the door for her before running to his side. 

“Guess what?” She exclaimed, turning to the side to stare at him, the smile on her face never fading. 

“What?” 

“I have two tickets to an art gallery for Saturday!” 

“An art gallery?” Haechan asked, furrowing his brows, and tilting his head. 

“Yeah, the one I wanted to go to, remember?” She was basically jumping on her seat, radiating happiness just at the idea. 

“Yeah, yeah, I do. The contemporary art one, right?” Haechan questioned, making sure he got it right. But, seeing how happy she was, the answer was quite obvious. 

“Yep,” Hyejin exclaimed, clapping her hands. 

“Are you going with Yeri?” 

Her smile dropped as soon as she registered his words. “What do you mean with Yeri?” 

“You’ve got two tickets, didn’t you?” 

She nodded, but the happiness on her face was gone, and her body was pressed against the seat. “Yeah, but I was thinking of going with you.” 

“Oh,” he gasped, diverting his gaze, hands falling on the wheel as his fingers tapped on it nervously. “I wish I could but…” 

“But what?” She asked, urging him to finish the phrase, a bitter edge hidden in her tone. “Already made promises to someone else?” 

“No, no, I just… you know I don’t like art… not contemporary art, to be honest.” 

“But I want to go.” 

“Well, can’t you go with someone else?” 

She opened her mouth to talk but shut it down immediately, slumping back on the seat and humming while pressing her lips together. 

“Hey, I just —” 

“No, it’s fine,” she stopped him, lifting a hand to stop his hand from touching her thigh, not turning to look at him, feeling too vulnerable as tears menaced escaping from her eyes. “I’ll go with someone else, don’t worry.” 

“Yeah, you know, you could go with someone that enjoys it.” 

Hyejin didn’t reply, only nodded as she started getting lost in the city outside. Did he genuinely want her to go with someone that shared her same passion or did he just didn’t get she wanted to spend some time with him? Either way, she was hurt and didn’t want to think about it. “Oh, can you drop me home? I have to help Yeri with something.” 

“Yeah, sure. Though, I thought we could spend at least dinner together.” 

“I don’t know, don’t want it to be too late…” She lied, nervously biting the inside of her cheek. 

“Oh, come on, we’ll eat quickly, I’ll drop you home before 8.” 

She sighed. The truth was she was sad, maybe even a bit mad, and didn’t want to spend more time with him, but then again, she felt she had no right to be mad, Haechan didn’t like art, and found it boring, while she loved it, so it was normal he didn’t want to go with her. That didn’t mean he loved her less than she loved him, or that he didn’t want to spend time with her, he wanted her to enjoy her day. 

“Yeah, fine, just don’t drop me too late,” she smiled, meeting his eyes, and watching as his lips curled in a smile too. 

Hyejin didn’t want to torment Haechan with the same questions, but the more the art gallery got close, the more she couldn’t help but feel sad he didn’t want to go with her. So there she was, one day before, begging him to go with her. 

“Then we can go whatever we want,” she repeated for the nth time, leaving the shoes at the side of the door to wear her slippers that were next to his. 

“Honey, I know, but…” Haechan huffed, fixing his hair and hanging the coat next to the door. It had been a constant nagging the entire ride back home and his brain was already exploding from work, that was the last thing he needed. “I’m exhausted, and I don’t even know if I’ll get up from bed tomorrow. I don’t want to ruin your day, you know I’m insufferable when I get no sleep.” 

“But it’s in the afternoon.” 

Haechan turned around, glaring at her. “You don’t like going to art galleries late, you want to be there first thing in the morning to avoid the queue, I know you.” 

Hyejin huffed, “True, but I would do it for you.” 

“And I said I don’t want to,” he replied before sighing when he saw her expression drop even more. “Hye, come here,” he whispered, pulling her closer by the waist, “I’m too tired for this, it was a long day of an even longer week and I want to spend the weekend rotting in bed. Can you go have fun for me?” 

Hyejin pushed down her throat a sniffle and nodded, keeping her lips together to avoid making weird sounds as she fought back tears. 

“Good,” he whispered, leaning in to kiss her. “I’ll go take a shower, if you are hungry start eating without me.” 

But all the hunger had left her as she dragged her body into the kitchen, surprised of seeing Jaemin there. 

“Oh, no, you listened to it all, didn’t you?” 

Jaemin raised his head, faking surprise and shrugging. “To what?” He had listened, but he didn’t want to seem like the roommate that couldn’t mind his business. Well, he was the roommate who couldn’t mind his business, but was it really his fault if they always bickered in the common spaces? 

She whined, sitting on the chair next to his, resting her head on the table. 

“Why are you sad?” He asked, closing the laptop after making sure he had saved what he was working on.

“I don’t want to distract you from your things.” 

“Nah, I was done anyway. Actually, I wanted to make dinner, wanna help?” 

She shook her head, lifting her upper body again to rub her hands on her face. “I’m not even hungry anymore.” 

Jaemin didn’t answer right away, he only studied her body and her nervous movements. “Did… did you fight?” 

“We didn’t fight, it’s just… oh never mind, I’m childish. He breaks his back at work, and I still whine when he’s too tired to do something with me.” 

“Is this about the art gallery?” 

“How do you know?” 

“Well, you’ve been talking about it for days, I heard you asked him two days ago, and then he talked about it with me.” 

“He did?” She asked, shifting on the seat. Jaemin hummed. “What did he say?” 

“Just that you wanted to go but he doesn’t like it.” 

Another huff rolled from her lips and Jaemin cocked his head to stare at her face that was now facing the table. “See, he just doesn’t like it, even if he wasn’t tired, he wouldn’t come, but is it so bad? We could even go skating after we’re done, I don’t care.” 

Jaemin coughed, fighting with his brain whether to be too upfront with her and tell her all the theories he kept making in his mind as he continuously studied them or not. It truly wasn’t his intention to pay so much attention to the details, but some red flags seemed so loud and clear to him, he couldn’t understand how Hyejin didn’t see them at all. 

“Did you talk to him?” 

“I ran out of words,” she scoffed, throwing her hands in the air. “But it’s fine, I’ll gift them to somebody else.” 

“No,” Jaemin shouted, louder and quicker than he wanted to. “I mean, you want to go, you can’t give it up because he’s not coming.” 

“I know but I don’t want to go alone and I don’t want to go with my friends,” she whispered, focusing on the design of the tablecloth to avoid his gaze, “neither Yeri nor Ningning want to come, and it’s fair, one has a date and the other one has her only free day, so…” 

“Can I come?” 

“What?” Her face lifted, staring at the young man in front of her with shock. 

“I mean, I’d like to go, if you want to, if it’s fine for you,” Jaemin said, the usual confidence of his voice faltering as he struggled to keep eye contact. 

“But I like to go there early and I’m annoying because I really love contemporary art and everybody hates it, I mean, I kinda hate it too but I think it’s funnier sometimes, you have so much freedom to come up with things when you look at the art and you can criticize it, oh, see,” she chuckled as she realized she started to talk no-stop. “I’m even worse when I have it in front of me.” 

Jaemin chuckled, grabbing her hand and caressing it. “I talk too much, too, so it would be incoherent for me to criticize you, don’t you think so?” 

“Yeah, but you talk about interesting things…” she said, quickly moving her eyes from their hands to his eyes. 

“This is interesting. So, what time tomorrow?” 

Hyejin’s smile reached ear to ear while the hype sparkled in her again, the idea of not having to go there alone and being with someone that seemed as interested as she was, was the best news of the day. 

“7:30, so we can be there at 8:00.” 

“Early bird, got it.” 

Jaemin wasn’t interested in contemporary art at all. To be honest, he simply never understood it and found it nerve-wracking how the lines about the definition of art blurred after the ‘60. But as he drove to the gallery he realized that he had found someone that was going to make him change his mind. 

Hyejin was the personification of happiness and excitement. When he parked out of her house at 7:20, she was already there, waiting under the porch, and rushed inside in the blink of an eye. And now she couldn’t stop talking about the things they were going to see. 

“Ever thought about being a teacher?” Jaemin asked, stopping her explanation of the life of Jean-Michel Basquiat. 

“Me? A teacher?” 

“Yeah, I mean, I know your dream is to be an artist but maybe you could teach and start your artist career as a side hustle.” 

“Oh, I’ve never thought about it. Do you think I’d be great?” 

“I think you’d be amazing,” he smiled, making her look away. 

“Well, I love my book club with kids, I wait for Friday mostly for them.” 

“See,” he said. “I’ve never seen you, but I think you’re good with them.” 

“You got that just from my rants that probably already gave you a headache?” 

“Oh, shut up,” he laughed. “I love how you explain things, it’s simple and clear, but you still give nice details and your passion is loud.” 

“Thanks,” she mumbled, biting her nails, and smiling shyly at him. 

“It’s the truth,” Jaemin smiled back before looking at the road again. 

When they exited the place it was around 10:00 am, the sun was by now high in the sky and the temperature was warmer, but none of them wanted to go back home, so they decided to go for a walk. 

“So, are you traumatized?” Hyejin asked, walking at his side, feeling their shoulders brush. “You didn’t talk much.” 

“Oh, I didn’t…” 

“Was it disappointing?” 

“No, I’m just speechless. Okay, so I never cared much about contemporary art, and I didn’t find it boring like Haechan, but I found it irritating.” 

“And you still came here for me?” She asked, not able to kill the smile that was forming on her face. 

Jaemin nodded, smiling shyly. 

“Oh, I owe you something.” 

“No, you don’t because I loved it,” he confessed.  

“You did? You don’t have to lie, I don’t take it personally.” 

“Yeah, I know,” he smiled. “But you are too good of a teacher and I’ve learned new things and turns out it is funny to stare at a blank canvas and see whatever the hell I want in it.” 

Hyejin laughed, mind going back to when the guide asked what they saw in that painting and he nonchalantly said ‘a burger’. “The guide wanted to kill you.” 

“What? It’s freedom of speech and imagination, ugh?” He laughed, eyes crinkling up. “Okay, I’m just starving, I was starting to see food everywhere.” 

“Want to have brunch?” 

“Should we? Even if after seeing ‘Mother and child divided’ I’m not so hungry anymore, especially not for burgers.” 

Hyejin chuckled, shaking her hair to move the long strands of the bang from her eyes. “The love-hate relationship I have with that work is not unexplainable.” 

Jaemin’s face twisted in disgust for a moment. “There’s a way to love it?” 

“I mean, I like the double message, and mostly I love how the mother and son relationship has always been a pivotal point in art and in this work is so… revolutionized. Think about it, when you think about that in art what comes to mind?” 

Jaemin thought about it for a minute before answering, “The Madonna and Jesus?” 

“Exactly! A holy image, of the purest kind of love, in an idyllic setting and then, all of a sudden, this is gone, it’s macabre and cruel. The love that should last forever, that bond that should never break, is torn apart. And it’s portrayed by a cow and a calf put in a tank. It’s shocking, but cool… if only those animals weren’t real. But also, if they were plastic, would it induce the same sense of irritation and anger? Like, seeing that makes me angry for so many things, the idea that a child was torn in two and separated by his mother is cruel and revolting,” she explained, gesticulating and stopping herself because she had so much to say. 

His lips curled in a soft smile as he stared at her getting so worked up. “I only stopped at revolting when I saw it, so that’s what I mean when I say you have so much passion in you.” 

Hyejin chuckled. “That’s why I stopped hating contemporary art so much, I was like you, getting mad and saying that it wasn’t real art, but then when you study those artists and what they want to say, you realize that you will always play their game. Every time you say that you could’ve done it too, that it’s outrageous, that it took them nothing, you pay them attention, you try to find a meaning in what they do and even if you think you’re not, they have you hooked on their art.” 

Jaemin smiled tenderly. “So you say, you might as well take a jump in their no sense and have fun?” 

“Exactly.” 

“And what about you?” 

“Me?” 

“Your art? Do you want to traumatize people, too?” 

“No, don’t worry, you won’t find corpses of any kind in the freezer because I need them for artistic purposes,” she joked. “Should we talk about this in there? It looks like a nice restaurant?” She asked when a sign caught her attention as they were walking by. 

“Yeah, let’s go.” 

When they entered the place, they sat down at a table and ordered something to eat. 

“So, you were saying?” 

“My art is simple, classic, basic.” 

Jaemin glared at her. “I’d love to see the passion you put into other people’s art into yours.” 

“I try to but I… I don’t even know what my art is anymore. It was personal, and it has always worked as a diary. I’m pretty good at different things, from realism to abstractionism, I do well even with sculptures, but I don’t think what I loved about my art was the technique. I loved the way my hands followed my heart, I would vomit my emotions on the canvas and just let go. I didn’t even care when I had to try and retry. Now I know I would start to compulsively look at the tiniest details, the proportions are not perfect at 100%, the spacing between the eyes looks weird, the shadows are surely wrong, and on and on and on…” 

Jaemin sighed, smiling briefly at the waitress that brought their drinks and the appetizers. “Why?” 

Hyejin shrugged before bringing the glass to her lips. “I… I can’t afford that. I want a future with Haechan, but we can’t have it now with a job that pays me, imagine if I drop everything to live off with art. I can’t put this weight on him.” 

“But you could at least still keep the flame alive?” He dared to say. 

“And how? I don’t have time for that.” 

Jaemin snorted and she raised a brow. “What’s so funny?” 

“I’m just… never mind.” 

“No, speak, or I’ll make art right now by pushing a fork in your arm.” 

“Fine, fine,” he gave up. “Instead of coming to our place every evening to cook, you could go to your place and paint.” 

“Damn, you really don’t want me home,” she joked.  

“When did I say it?” He asked, raising a brow. “It’s just... Haechan works but then he always finds time to play games with Jeno, or go out with some other friends, or even just chill on the sofa. You? You come home and cook and clean…” 

“I do it because I want to.” 

“Yeah, yeah, I know,” he dismissed her, looking at his plate because he knew it was a lost cause to start with.  

Hyejin furrowed. “You still think he treats me like a maid?” 

“I’m not saying he treats you like a maid, I’m saying you… you love him too much.” 

“What?” She gasped.

“You can do it for him. I know you just want to stay under the same roof and know that he’s in the other room and have dinner together, but you loved art and you shouldn’t push that passion away completely.”

“I didn’t push it away for him, it won’t give me a future. And I know what I want, I have to work hard for that.” 

Jaemin hummed, biting back the bitter remark, stopping himself from screaming why can’t you see the evidence? “And what’s the future?” 

“So you can judge even that?” She joked, but the bitter edge in her voice reached his ears anyway. 

He felt a painful clench in his heart and his smile dropped. “I only care for you, I don’t want to judge.” 

“I know you do, but I’m a grown-up, and we have to make decisions when we grow up, don’t we? If I do what I do, it’s because I want to and because I know that going to my place and starting to paint when that paint won’t see the light of the day will just kill me more.” 

Jaemin nodded. “Yeah, sure. Sorry for being… too much into your business.” 

“Don’t worry, it’s fine.” 

The first intention was to go home, but when after taking a different route because the road was closed, they saw an amusement park, they couldn’t help but stop by. 

“You have no idea how many times I begged Haechan to come with me,” Hyejin said, hopping around. 

“Damn, always too tired from work, isn’t he?” Jaemin whispered bitterly but she barely heard. 

“What?” 

“No, nothing, you’re here now, isn’t it nice?” 

Her smile widened even more as she nodded. “I love it.”

“So, any ride you’d like to try?” He asked, trying to turn into a tomato when her hand searched for his. 

“Mhh, don’t know. Any suggestion?”

He cleared his throat, looking around, more to find an excuse to don’t have to look into her shiny eyes than to look at the attractions. “I mean, are you in a rush? Because if you’re not, we can try them all for me.”

Her eyes lit up while her lips moved up in a grin. “Are you sure?” She asked, trying to mask the happiness and excitement in her voice. 

Jaemin nodded, “Anything you want.”

“Carousel first.”

After two hours they tried every ride in the park, even going on some twice. They felt strained, but adrenaline was rushing in their bones as they talked about anything and everything and occasionally sang and danced along to the music coming from the big speakers at the corners. 

“Oh look, you can win a couple of bunnies!” Hyejin exclaimed, seeing the stand as they were walking out of the park. 

“Do you want them?” Jaemin asked, staring at where her finger was pointing. 

“Yes! So I can give one to Hycuk.” 

Jaemin shouldn’t have felt that twisting pain in his heart as those words left her mouth and she started walking speedily to the booth to try to win the plushies, but he felt it anyway. He couldn’t believe she was so blindly in love with Haechan. But he shrugged it off and followed her. 

Jaemin stood a few steps back, leaning against the pillar of the stall as he watched her handle the gun and shoot at the cans, failing all her tries of the first round. A smile curled his lips as she huffed and shook the bangs out of her face to try to get a better aim. But when even the second try failed, Jaemin couldn’t stand looking at her sulk on it more. 

“I’ll try,” he said, handing the money to the cashier and taking the water gun from her hands. 

“Jaem, you don’t have to.”

“I know,” he said, turning around and smiling at her. “I want to.” Jaemin would’ve indulged more in her cheeks heating up and the big smile on her face if it wasn’t for the bell ringing, signalling the start of the game. 

“You need to take down five of them to get the bunnies,” the man behind the cashier reminded him when he knocked the first one down. 

Hyejin rolled her eyes, grunting lowly because there was no need to be so annoying. But even though she was cheering on him, she didn’t expect him to keep pushing the cans down. His aim was perfect, and nothing could distract him from his goals. And so lost in everything, she stopped thinking that he was so handsome, it was a shame he was still single. But when the bell rang and brought her out of her thoughts, she saw the score on the screen. 

“I can’t believe you won them,” she screamed when Jaemin turned around, winking at her before grabbing the two plushies from the man in the stand and handing them to her. 

Jaemin smiled tenderly, watching her jump on the spot as she held them tight on her chest. He shrugged, starting to walk over to the parking lot as she followed by his side. “It seemed like you wanted them badly, thought I could help.” 

Her eyes lit up more before she stood on her tiptoes to leave a small peck on his cheeks. “Thank you so much. You’re the best. I can’t wait to give this to Hyuck.” 

Jaemin’s smile turned bitter, but his cheeks were still bright red from the kiss of before. “I’m sure he’ll love it.” 

“I hope so,” she said, trailing off as she waited for him to open the car. “I don’t know, sometimes I feel like… it’s almost as if I don’t know him anymore.” 

“You’re not sure he would like them?” Jaemin asked, watching her play with the fur of the plush before starting the car to head home. 

Hyejin shrugged, letting out a low huff. “It’s not about these, it’s about a lot of things. I’ve known him since forever, and yet sometimes I get this feeling we’re almost strangers.” 

Jaemin chuckled. “You two? Strangers?” 

“Yeah, it’s absurd, right?” She said, looking at him. Jaemin nodded and she sighed again. “Maybe it’s just life that makes it hard. But I hate that I do things for him thinking he’ll love them and then he’s just not as excited as me, or not like I expect him to be… with me.”

Jaemin kept quiet, he didn’t know what to say. Honestly, he didn’t want to hurt her with what he thought was the reason. As the months went by, he simply thought they both loved each other deeply but differently and somehow it made it look like Haechan loved her a bit less. 

“I feel like I became too much for him, you know? And I’m always afraid I’ll do something wrong. I don’t want to upset him, but also I miss what we used to have when we were in college. He always found a way to spend time with me, he would help me study even if he didn’t know a thing about my degree,” she said with a small melancholic smile on her face. “God, he even asked for the recipe of a dish I loved to prepare it at home because we couldn’t go out often.”

Jaemin smiled, caressing the hand on her thigh in reassurance. “He loves you, don’t doubt that.” 

“I know,” she whispered, clearly trying to fight back tears, “but I wonder if we’re right for each other. He never…” she sighed, looking out of the window and taking a deep breath. “He never saw me, not like I would see him. And… oh, Jesus, I’m so annoying, aren’t I?” 

“No, you’re not,” he reassured. “Let it out, Hyejin. It’s alright.” 

“No, because it’s just me and my stupid paranoias. I loved him for so long, hurting so much because he would see right through me, and now that I have him, I still have that lingering fear I am not enough. I try so hard to keep this up because I’m terrified I’ll lose a friend before I’ll lose a lover.” 

Jaemin gulped, feeling heaviness in his heart. Haechan meant so much to her. He wanted to say these paranoias were useless, but he didn’t feel like lying. “I don’t think you should stress about it. Now let’s go home and give him that bunny, alright? He’ll love it.” 

Hyejin forced a smile on her lips and blinked the tears away before nodding. But the silence that surrounded them felt agonizing, so she had to fill it somehow. “Remember when I told you about Zoya?” 

“Yeah, why?” 

“She asked me and Haechan to hang out next week, I thought you could tag along.” 

“Oh,” he whispered, swallowing the gulp in his throat, “to get to know her?” 

“Yes, of course, silly. Why else?” She asked, pushing him playfully. 

“I love how you keep not-so-subtly telling me I’m bitchless,” he chuckled and she laughed too. 

“I just think you two would make a great match,” she explained. “And I…” she breathed out, biting the inside of her cheek, “… I kinda don’t want to be just us. It doesn’t even have to be to get with her, just to hang out with us and make a new friend.” 

“Why don’t you want to be just you, her and Hyuck? I thought you were friends?” 

“Yes, we are,” she replied. “I don’t mind being just us, but it’s been just us for years, nothing wrong with adding another one,” she clarified, voice shaking and fingers fidgeting with the paw of the toy. 

Jaemin glimpsed at her, not convinced at all, but shrugged. “Fine, I’ll come.” 

“Perfect! I’ll tell her tomorrow, so she can book the table for four,” Hyejin cheered, beaming at him. “I think we’ve gone too far from home.” 

“Yeah, I just noticed how far we’ve driven to get to that park,” he chuckled. “Are you tired?” He asked when she yawned. 

Hyejin giggled in embarrassment and then nodded. “A bit.” 

“You can rest if you want,” he proposed her. “I think we won’t be home sooner than an hour.” 

“Are you sure? I don’t want to leave you alone.” 

“No, don’t worry. Just relax.” 

“Thank you.” 

As he ever so often glimpsed at her falling asleep on the passenger seat, Jaemin realized a painful truth; he didn’t want Zoya or any other woman, he wanted her. 

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[sooinbloom]

The Kingdom of Us

Chapter 6

pairing: Kyungsoo x OFC genre: Royal!AU, nonidol!soo, crownprince!kyungsoo, romance, drama theme: arranged marriage, modern royalty, enemies to lovers, war, betrayal, eventual smut word count: 5,277 description: the Engagement Ball has finally arrived, so has Alina’s best friend Lisette. Drama unfolds as soon as the Royal Wedding date is announced, and Kyungsoo warms up to the idea of loving Alina. warnings: none (:

author’s note: hello, dear reader! We’re already at chapter 6! I loved this chapter, it’s so cute. We start to see Kyungsoo and Alina get out of their awkward stage. No warnings for this chapter, photos are not mine, dividers by @saradika-graphics . Happy reading!

KYUNGSOO

I watch Alina as she sleeps on my chest. I didn’t sleep at all last night. I was too busy making sure Alina stayed asleep. She didn’t wake up screaming for safety, if I noticed her hands gripping me, I’d soothe her by stroking her hair and whispering sweet nothings until her muscles relax and her head rests back on my chest. With the hours that passed, my mind was set on how I could make that piece of trash Daniel pay for every single second of pain he made Alina endure. 

The moment that Alina broke down and told me what that coward did to her, rage flared through me. Everything started to make sense. How she was apprehensive to be alone with me, the nightmares, the distance she created between us and how she’d tense up every time I touched her. My feelings for her shifted, I needed to make her feel safe. She never felt safe before, not even in her own palace. 

My heart flutters as Alina stirs. She cuddles into me with her lips pouted. I trace circles on her bare shoulder, admiring how her glowing golden skin was as smooth as porcelain and warmed my fingertips. I barely know the surface of Alina and now she makes me want to learn so much more about her so I can be so much better for her. Alina’s eyes slowly flutter open and I feel my heart stop when her gaze falls onto me. 

“Good morning. How did you sleep, darling?” I smile down at her. A look of apprehension crosses her face. I can’t pretend that this is a comfortable situation, but in times like these, faking it until you make it is the only option. 

“I don’t remember falling asleep,” Alina yawns. She rests her head on my shoulder. “I guess that means I slept well. What time is it?”

“Eight in the morning.” I reply, stifling a yawn myself. Alina frantically sits up, her hand reaching for my face and lands softly on my cheek. 

“Kyungsoo, you look exhausted! Did you sleep at all? Please tell me you slept.” Alina asks anxiously.

“I did… At some points in the night,” I shrug, “I meant it when I said I’d keep you safe. But that isn’t something you should worry about. I requested your favorite foods be prepared for you to enjoy in bed. Don’t look at me like that, darling. I’ll be fine.”

“Breakfast in bed? Kyungsoo, you should’ve been more worried about sleeping.”

“I’ll sleep tonight, I promise. Breakfast in bed is mandatory for special days like this. It’s our Ball tonight. This is just a glimpse of what your life will be like. All you have to do is show up next week at the altar.” I laugh. There’s a knock at the door and Alina rushes to get it, grabbing a robe that’s hanging on a rack near her bed. Her curves take my attention until she’s out of sight, her sleepy voice greeting a servant. She returns pushing a food cart, I jump out of bed and take over. 

“Sit down, darling. I’ll serve you today.” I kiss her hand and guide her back to the bed, she sits with her back against the headboard and I serve her breakfast, a traditional meal from Valencia. Plantains, cream, eggs and beans. In my crash courses of Alina, I learned that this is her favorite. I take my portion and sit across from her, leaving the fresh brewed coffee next to her. 

“Kyungsoo,” she beams, “this… I’ve missed this. How did you know this is my favorite?”

“I did my research.” I smirk. We eat and share small conversation about the meal itself, and her eyes glitter with excitement. She’s coming to life right before my eyes, Baekhyun was absolutely right. Treating Alina kindly is much better than what I have been doing. In all my hours of carefully watching over her, I came up with a plan to hopefully make her feel stronger and protect herself if and when I’m sent to the battlefield. “I’ve been thinking of something Princess.”

“Oh? What have you been thinking about?” She replies, wiping the corner of her mouth with a napkin. 

“I’m going to train you how to handle a sword. I may not always be here to protect you, and you deserve to feel powerful.” I tell her. 

“Sword lessons? Kyungsoo…” Alina groans. “Believe me, my brothers tried to teach me but it always ended badly. I’ve seen you during your drills, there’s absolutely no way I can learn the things that you can do.”

“Well, that was your brothers. I’ll be the one teaching you this time. We don’t know what’s going to happen, but I want you to be prepared for anything.” I add. She nods her head slowly in agreement. She finishes her meal and kisses my cheek, my skin ignites under the pressure of her lips. She really is changing me if I’m blushing like a little kid.

“Don’t say I didn’t warn you, I’m horrible with weapons. Now, if you don’t mind, Kyungsoo, my best friend and seamstress is arriving today. I need to get ready.” Alina replies. I smirk and lean back, crossing my leg. “Kyungsoo!”

“What? I can’t sit here and finish my breakfast?” 

“You already did!” 

“Fair, but I still have to make sure you’re safe and I can’t do that from another room.” I jokingly barter. Alina shakes her head with an accompanying eye roll and journeys to her walk-in closet, picking out clothes to wear for the day. Without a word, she just looks me, smiles and shuts the door to her bathroom. 

At least she’s this comfortable with me now. 

ALINA

“Announcing Miss Lisette Villanueva, Royal Seamstress and Designer of the Kingdom of Valencia.” A Royal Guard announces Lisette’s entrance. We try to keep our composure, but we yelp when we see each other. 

“Amiga!”  

“Finally, we meet again!” Lisette beams. “I’ve missed you!”

“I’ve missed you, too, Lissy.” I grab her hands. 

Lisette and I have known each other for years. Her mother, Eva, is the owner of a dress shop called Luna Rosa Designs that became my favorite place to get all of my dresses and gowns for events. The designer labels from around the world are beautifully made, I admire the couture houses in Europe as much as the next person. There was a certain quality of Eva’s designs and dresses that captivated me. 

I’ve been wearing her dresses ever since I was a little girl. I only wanted Eva to design my formal wear as I got older. Unfortunately, as time went on Eva became ill and couldn’t work as she did before. Lisette took over the business and created not only my formal gowns for nights like this, but my wedding gown. 

I of course had friends, but Lisette was the closest one I had. We grew up together, played together and I got to live vicariously through her because she got to go to regular school and have a regular life. We had our differences but that’s what made our friendship so special. When she had her first heartbreak, we watched romantic comedies and ate junk food until we were laughing at the sappy storylines. When my brothers were sent off to war, she cried with me. When she sold her first couture gown, we celebrated by traveling to the beach for a weekend and exploring the coast of Valencia. I want her to be my lady in waiting, the highest position she could have, because I can’t imagine anyone else being in the position but my best friend.

“Come, come, let me show you to your room.”

We try to update each other as quickly as we can as we turn into the first-floor suite that’s the largest on the floor. Lisette giddily sets her bag down on the bed and peered out of the window at Kyungsoo and the Dukes having a drink in the garden. Everyone started arriving little by little since this morning, the Castle was being prepped for the Ball slowly but surely. Kyungsoo glances over at us and gives us a small smile, Lisette eagerly turns to me with glee in her eyes while maids bring in the rest of her luggage. “Oh… My… God… He’s even more beautiful in person… Well, through a window.”

Kyungsoo’s eyes lock with mine and my heart breaks at the sight of the dark circles under his eyes. I can’t believe he didn’t sleep at all last night. “He is a beautiful man, there’s no denying that.”

“I’m so jealous, he looks at you like you’re his world… Alina, aren’t you so excited to marry a man that’s so perfect?” If only she knew the half of it. 

“He’s not perfect, but he definitely makes me feel special.” I blush, waving softly at my betrothed. She smiles and Duke Yixing captures his attention back to their conversation. 

“Whoa… Who is that?” Lisette’s gaze is set on someone but I can’t see who until a familiar tall figure walks across the edge of the lawn. He’s been acting strangely and avoiding Kyungsoo. I hope I didn’t cause this from the whole garden fiasco. 

“Him? That’s Duke Chanyeol.” I nod, crossing my arms. I peer over at my best friend and the look in her eyes is like she fell in love. 

“Is it hot in here? Or is it just me?” Lisette clasps her hands in front of her chest. 

“Ya, Amiga!” I push her arm playfully. “He’s a playboy! Don’t get too close to him.”

“Princess, it’s time for the final dress rehearsal for the dance tonight.” A maid appears in the doorway with a giddy smile. “Please come with me.”

“I’m sorry, Lissy. I’ll be back to see you soon, this shouldn’t take long.”

“Take all the time you need, Amiga! I’m sorry, I mean, Princess.” Lisette giggles, bowing to me. “Make sure to kiss those scrumptious lips your fiancé has as much as you can… Amiga, he is gorgeous.”

“Who’s gorgeous?” Duke Chanyeol says from behind us. His lip is slightly bruised, I don’t even want to know what happened to him. 

“Duke Chanyeol… Are you alright?” I ask in a hushed tone.

“Oh, this?” He smiles, pointing to his wound. “Your dear fiancé and I had a little boxing match. He has a mean right hook.”

“When did that…”

“Hi, I believe we haven’t met yet. I’m Duke Chanyeol.” He turns his attention to Lisette, kissing her hand. There’s something about the men in the Doh Dynasty and kissing the hands of women. They know exactly how effective it is. Lisette is frozen in the moment and I cover my mouth to stifle my giggles. Chanyeol looks at her differently than he’s looked at his paramours, or even at me. He has stars in his already bright eyes, and Lisette’s gaze matches his.  

“Pleasure to make your acquaintance, Chanyeol. I’m Lisette Villanueva, Princess Alina’s seamstress.” Lisette politely bows and Chanyeol nods, not taking his eyes off of her. I smile to myself as Chanyeol and Lisette start a conversation, if anyone is qualified to handle someone like Chanyeol it’s Lisette. They’re completely enamored with how their eyes locked on each other. 

“Well, I’ll leave you two to talk. I’ll see you later!” I know they can’t hear me, I chuckle to myself and make my way to the makeshift practice area so Kyungsoo and I can do one final dance before the real thing. I open the door and Kyungsoo is waiting with his hands in his pocket. “Crown Prince.”

“Princess.” He smirks. He holds his hand out and spins me toward him. “Ready, darling?”

“Of course, Crown Prince.” Once we start gliding across the floor, my guard slips down. I wish it didn’t, because I could’ve used it for what was going to happen tonight.

“My goodness, Princess, you are a vision.” Lisette gushes. Maids gather and gawk at me, their attention makes me uncomfortable. 

“Thank you, Amiga.” I reply. The Engagement Ball commenced an hour ago. All of Seoul’s high society and influencers were in attendance, awaiting to see what I would be wearing. It’s superficial at best, but a job hazard nonetheless. I do love getting dressed up for Balls and special events, but I had never been as nervous as I am tonight. Rumors circulated on everything from the color of my gown to the designer, and if I would live up to Seoul’s biggest standards of the future wife of the Beloved Crown Prince. 

My appreciation for Lisette’s designs increased as I looked in the mirror, admiring the ball gown that fit like a glove. Butterflies and flowers make up the bodice of the dress and off the shoulder sleeves, embellished butterflies circle the waist and skim down to the bottom of the skirt. I chose to wear my hair half and half down in loose curls with my Valencian tiara sitting atop my head.

“Is it almost…”

“Excuse me, may I have a word with the Princess?” I turn my head to see Samira at the door. Great. My maids and Lisette turn toward me and I nod, careful not to show the irritation on my face. They file out of the room and Samira closes the door. “Alina! I’m so glad that you invited me. You look so stunning, the Crown Prince isn’t gonna want to wait to rip this gown off of you later!”

I narrow my brow, confusion filling my mind. “… Thank you?”

“That’s not the reason I’m here. I am here to give a word of advice to you, Alina.” Samira explains, crossing her arms.

“What advice must you give to me right now, Samira?” I ask carefully, knowing ears and eyes are all around waiting for me to slip up in the slightest. 

“Princess, don’t get too close to Kyungsoo. I hate to tell you this on our big day but Kyungsoo and I... We’ve been secretly dating. Him and I are much closer than you might have thought. He asked me to meet him tonight after the Ball, and he is a very needy man. I’m surprised he’s still asking me for favors when he finally has you. Then again, you don’t seem like the rule breaking type. You’re nothing but the formality on his way to the Crown.”

“I see.” Fury blazes underneath my skin. It angered me that I couldn’t show it or tell Samira exactly how I felt about her and the fact that she slept with my fiancé.

“Oh, sweetie, you had to have seen this coming. It wasn’t obvious we were together when I was constantly talking about the guy I was seeing? I’m just saving you the heartache of finding out that I’ll be the one in his bed, giving him what he really wants.”

“Samira, I don’t have time or energy for this. I have to go dance with my fiancé. The same fiancé that called you a one-off thing. It’s amazing how you backstab me and have the guts to attend our engagement ball. Now if you’ll excuse me, Crown Prince Kyungsoo is waiting for me.” I snap with hot cheeks. I’m not one to be so bold but I have to be now. 

I silently bow to the fuming Princess and walk past her, internally crumbling with each step I took to the large double doors to the ballroom entrance. What is it that Samira thinks she knows? I wondered if there was any truth to what she said, because it’s unheard of for another Princess to be a concubine. I think of how oddly kind he’s been to me lately, there has to be a reason behind it. Was it to introduce Samira as his real love? Nausea choked my body until I heard my name from the other side of the walls. 

The doors to the ballroom open and all eyes are on me, gasps and murmurs could be heard bouncing from all over the room. Slowly, my eyes meet my Kyungsoo. He looks beyond handsome in his formal military uniform, a regal design with tassels on his shoulders and a sash with Seoul’s royal colors and insignia sewn across it. His badges and medals of honor adorn the space above his heart, chains swoop from his right shoulder to his lapel on the other. His hair is slicked back and out of his face with his crown sitting neatly on his head, his mouth slightly ajar. Kyungsoo’s gaze causes my cheeks to flush, he bows before me and kisses my hand. I bow to my fiancé, a new type of smile appearing on his face. 

“You look so beautiful, Princess,” Kyungsoo whispers in my hair as he holds me for the waltz. The orchestra plays the soft, romantic melody we’ve rehearsed to and I nervously stiffen in his embrace. “Don’t be nervous. Remember, darling, follow me. On three, step back. One, two, three…”

We start to glide across the floor, our eyes set on each other. Uncertainty began to creep into my chest as Kyungsoo’s eyes beg me to trust him. I notice his demeanor is much different, it’s less guarded. It’s in his gaze, there’s a warmth that has been kindling over the last few days. Once my guard starts to drop, I make eye contact with Samira from across the ballroom. Of course, she’s standing right next to Boram. She smirks as she holds her phone in front of her, recording this moment. They whisper to each other and instantly my confidence fades as quickly as it came. 

Is something going to happen now? What if he is in on this? What do I do? 

My thoughts cause me to lose focus and stumble, the stress of ruining a beautiful, historical moment forcing adrenaline through my veins. Right on time to the music, Kyungsoo lifts me in his arms and smiles up at me. He gradually slides me down and my feet touch the ground, his arms securely around my waist until his hand grabs mine again. He twirls me and the entire ballroom erupts in applause. 

“You need to put some trust in me. I told you that I would never let you fall, Princess.” He whispers in my ear.  

I smile at Kyungsoo with gratitude and relief. I can feel his heart racing against my chest, dumbfounded at the thought that the Crown Prince is just as nervous as I am. The worst thing about this is that I am undoubtedly wonderstruck by him. 

“I’m starting to believe you.” I reply lowly. Kyungsoo’s smile gets bigger, and he holds me closer, his words falling onto me like a refreshing rain.

“You belong in my arms, Princess.” Kyungsoo dreamily breathes. He twirls me at the tail end of the dance, bringing me back to his embrace. He leans forward and dips me down like he did in rehearsal, cradling me closely toward his chest. I close my eyes to ward off the dizzy feeling in my head, the same feeling he gives me every time he’s close like this. His lips linger centimeters above mine, any closer and they’d brush together. They land on my cheek; leaving a feathery, chaste kiss. 

“This will have to do now, I fear if I kiss your lips now, I’ll never be able to stop.” Kyungsoo’s breath fans across my neck. I relax and can’t help but smile up at my fiancé.  Kyungsoo bows politely to me, touching my face with his free hand as he stands up straight. I catch the eyes of Samira burning into me again. Kyungsoo and I bow to our guests and he requests for everyone to quiet down.

“Welcome, esteemed guests.” Kyungsoo bows and I follow suit. “We are so happy you came to our special day. We also would like to announce that the Royal Wedding will be taking place October 12th, next week. The Princess and I are in love and simply couldn’t wait any longer. Please forgive us if this causes any time constraints or hinderance in your schedules.” 

That is the biggest lie I’ve ever heard come from Kyungsoo’s mouth, and it’s the first lie that I’m grateful for. Our guests cheer and applaud us on our “love”. The chatter begins along with the camera shutters. We smile and play it up for the cameras, and every person in this room believes it. Boram and Samira scowl in corners and whisper at each other to just get under my skin but I pay them no mind. The rest of the night is a blur of conversations, dancing and photo ops. Kyungsoo’s arm stays locked around me and he holds me close when we dance throughout the night. His eyes are soft and gentle when he looks down at me, his words are like silk as he whispers sweet nothings when we get chances to capture moments on our own. This feels so natural. So good. 

Too good. 

Midnight comes and the guests start to stumble out of the ballroom, bellies full of the finest wine and the best food imported from other kingdoms. Kyungsoo disappeared at some point and I figured I would see him later. On my way back to my chambers, I spot Lisette and Chanyeol in the garden. They’re casually talking and it looks like they’re getting along well, I make a mental note to ask her about this when we get back to the palace. I pass through the castle and see a sight that I partially expected. 

“Kyungsoo! Stooop!” Her giggly voice is like nails on a chalkboard with her stupid giggles and whines. I stop behind a pillar and watch the scene play out in front of me. 

Kyungsoo and Samira. 

She giggles and slaps his shoulder, a small smile erupting on his face. Fire burned under my skin at the mere sight of a smile on his face because of her. 

“Spend the night with me, babe. Just like we used to, remember? Come on, we can leave now!” This bitch. 

“No, Samira. What we had is over. I’m with Alina now.” Kyungsoo sighs in monotone. It’s so rehearsed, but I don’t expect anything less from him. If I could shoot lasers out of my eyes, I’d aim at the both of them.

“Babe, come on. You and I both know you don’t want this. You would tell me over and over how much you hated that girl and didn’t want her! Why are you forcing this relationship so much?” Samira leans into Kyungsoo and he steps away. 

“You’re a tease.” He laughs. My eyes fill with tears and I run, not caring if my footsteps echo. I don’t even care that Kyungsoo is calling out for me. I slam my door to my chambers. I made a mistake with letting this man in. I made a bigger mistake with telling him what happened to me. I curse myself for being so stupid in thinking that Kyungsoo meant his words. I refuse to cry over him, wipe my eyes and sit on my bed with my head in my hands. In my fit of anger, I didn’t check if the door was locked. As it swings open, I shuffle back, Kyungsoo standing there still in his uniform. 

“We need to talk.”

“No, we don’t.” I snap. Kyungsoo closes the door to my room and steps closer to the bed, taking my hand in his. 

“Yes. We. Do.”

“What do you want to talk about, Kyungsoo? The fact that you were with your friend with benefits?” I scoff. 

“It’s not what you think it was, Alina.” Kyungsoo pleads. How pathetic. 

“She was all over you!” I exclaim. 

“Samira was not all over me.” Kyungsoo rolls his eyes. 

“Yes she was! I saw it! And you weren’t even mad about it.” 

“You know, you’re cute when you’re jealous.” Kyungsoo smirks. 

“Don’t do that. Don’t chastise me.” I warn. 

Kyungsoo combs his hand through my hair and rests his hand on the nape of my neck. He doesn’t break eye contact and all I want is to be out from under his stupid spell. He smiles and caresses my face with his thumb. “I’m not chastising you. I told you before, Samira and I broke it off before you came here. She means nothing to me, darling. I just want you, is that so hard to believe?”

“Don’t give me that.” I hiss, forcing myself to break the invisible lock that his gaze has on me. Kyungsoo stands beside me and sighs lowly. “I saw you flirting with her! Laughing with her. You really have some nerve.” 

“Some nerve? Alina… I don’t want Samira. I want you.”

“No, Kyungsoo. Do you think I’m stupid? Do you think…”

“Damn it, Alina! Listen to me! Do you think that I wanted all of this to happen? I never thought you and I would be in this position!” Kyungsoo raises his voice. “It just happened. I can’t stop thinking about you. You’re on my mind all of the time. I barely know you, all you did was walk into the Throne Room and have driven me mad ever since. I dream of kissing you. Now the best part of my day is holding you through the night. I need you. I crave you. I want to learn every little bit of you until there’s nothing left to learn. I want to love you for the rest of my life and that alone is scaring the hell out of me. You’re the first woman I’ve felt all of this for… All of these things all at once. I need you.”

“You really must think I’m stupid to believe I’m the first and only woman you felt all this before when obviously you felt things for Samira. She came to me before the ball saying she was going to be the one in your bed. That you had a plan, Kyungsoo.”

Kyungsoo’s deep, thunderous laugh leaves his mouth. He wasn’t amused, he was irritated. Our gazes lock and the intensity of his eyes knocks me down a few pegs. “A plan? What plan? Darling… My only plan was to announce our wedding. We’re getting married. You and I. She was never part of my plans, and she will neverbe the woman in my bed. The only woman that will ever have the spot next to me is you. Haven’t I been proving that the last 48 hours?”

“You know that doesn’t mean anything. 48 hours? Are you serious?” I gaze back up at the moon and of course, Kyungsoo demands my attention again. “I don’t believe you.”

“Let’s settle something right now, Alina. Princess Samira will not be on my mind if you’re the one lying beside me. You must not understand the depths of my want for you if you think Samira can distract me from you. My mind is constantly on your lips that are so pouty when you don’t get what you want yet control me when they’re on mine. Your beautifully crafted body lying in my arms every single night is enough for me to forget about that woman and any other woman before you. Your face is the last thing I see before I sleep and my first thought in the morning. Your existence consumes me, darling.” Kyungsoo’s shaky, throaty tone catches me off guard just as much as his sentiments do. His charming grin blooms on his face as if he knows the thoughts that appeared in my head, and the sensations flooding and confusing my body.

I swallow my words under curious eyes and crimson cheeks. Kyungsoo so effortlessly bathes in the moonlight, his words hang in the air with each step he takes to close the gap between us. Once his arms enclose me in his orbit, I know I’m done for. “My God, Alina. How do you so effortlessly give the moon its glow? The stars in the sky are envious of the ones that flicker in your eyes… No woman could ever compare to you in my eyes. You’re breathtaking.”

Kyungsoo’s hands guide themselves to the back of my neck, thumbs on my cheeks. He brings his thick, plump lips to mine. This kiss was different than the one we shared before. There was no more curiosity, it was passionate. It was fiery. It was everything I needed. 

“You’re stunning.” I start falling deeper into him.

“You’re gorgeous.” I’m drowning in him.

“You’re divine.” There’s no going back. 

Kyungsoo indulges in my lips over and over, calling me sweet names in between each breath-stealing kiss. He kissed me so much that I lost count of each time he whispered how beautiful I was under his breath. He picks me up in his arms and sets me on the dresser, standing in between my legs. He leans into me and rest his hands on my thighs. I fall for the desire to fulfill every single need Kyungsoo has. My arms wrap around his neck, our breath heavy as his hands travel up my legs and settle on my waist. We part, I press my forehead against his with shallow breaths. 

“Darling, any woman could try to get my attention, but I’m completely and utterly focused on you. My mind has been made up. No one can change that, Alina.” He lowly assures me. 

“Kyungsoo…”

The strap of my nightgown falls off my shoulder. Kyungsoo eyes it and slides his finger underneath the thin strap, kissing my exposed skin before returning the strap back where it was. “Alina… Let me in, please.”

“One condition.” I say lowly. He squeezes me tighter in his arms. “Show me who you really are underneath the façade you’ve given. If I let you in, you have to let me in, too. We’re going to be married really soon and to give this a fair shot, we have to trust each other.” 

“I’ll do whatever you ask of me.” He says on my lips with pleading eyes. I chase his lips, needing to fill a piece of me that I didn’t know was empty until he came along. 

“Please don’t ever see Samira ever again.” I plead in his mouth. 

“I don’t need to see her. I have you, darling.” Kyungsoo replies between mouthy kisses. “I only need you.”

The coolness of the wall startles my skin as Kyungsoo pushes me on it, slowly kissing along my collarbone. I crumble with how he looks up at me with begging, desperate eyes. I put my hands on either side of his face and bring him back to my lips. I’m taking control of what I want, and my desire is filled with him. His kisses soothe open wounds in me. His touch mends the broken parts that others left behind. He’s slowly healing me and my heart is allowing it. We’re lost together in a whirlwind of feelings we didn’t expect to have for each other and it’s a thrill I’ll gladly chase. We break apart and Kyungsoo holds my chin with his fingers. 

“Is this what falling in love feels like?” I gasp. 

“I hope so, because I’ve been waiting to catch you, Princess.” 

“I thought we were leaving titles out of our private conversations.” I smirk, wrapping my arms around his strong shoulders. 

“We are, but you’re my princess. My darling. Mine.” Kyungsoo breathes, leaving soft kisses on my cheeks. 

“And you…” I reply between kisses, “are mine.”

[buckets-and-trees]

Idle Hands

Fandom: MCU

Characters/Pairings: Stucky x female!Reader

Word Count: 900

Summary: Actions speak louder than words, and Bucky takes note of Steve’s actions as your relationship naturally grows.

Content Warnings: all floof and softness here

Additional Notes: THE BROOKLYN BOYS HOLIDAY SPECIAL (but theoretically could be read on its own). Just a little drabble-y something for my 2022 Holiday Extravaganza! I have a lot of feelings for this trio in my heart.

James Buchanan Barnes was a fittingly pretentious name for an overly enthusiastic nerd.

“Best friends since childhood, Bucky Barnes and Steven Rogers were inseparable on both schoolyard and battlefield.”

The truth was, when they were little, Steve wasn’t that much smaller than everyone else. Steve picked up his hatred for bullies when Bucky hadn’t figured out that obviously being the smartest kid in the room and obliviously enjoying the process of acquiring more knowledge earned him a target as a nerd. Steve defended him, befriended him, and helped him mellow out. He never suggested that Bucky change who he was, just helped him navigate the early years of school social dynamics and learn how not to come off as an insufferable know it all in every situation. It was later, when Steve was left behind as the one who was too short and too scrawny that Bucky got to finally pay him back in the battle against bullies – not that Steve would let him, but that’s friendship, with each other ‘til the end of the line whichever way the train’s heading.

Still, Bucky’s always been too intelligent, too observant, too curious. It’s what made him stand out in the 107th, which was good in the field, but bad when it got him on Zola’s table the first time. For better and worse it put him on the top of the list of HYDRA’s assets during his purgatory as the Winter Soldier. He wasn’t perfect, but his margin of error was next to zero.

These days living his life in Brooklyn, he doesn’t catch everything every hour of every day, but he still loves learning, his mind is still ever observant, ever curious, and after enough years of coming to terms with who he is now again – James Buchanan Barnes and only sometimes the White Wolf – he enjoys that part of himself again.

He is an unapologetic Ravenclaw now that he’s read Harry Potter.

One morning over breakfast as he’s over at the counter pouring himself another cup of coffee, he looks over to see Steve holding your hand casually on the corner of the table. Steve is scrolling through his phone; you’re eating cereal and watching the morning news. It’s beautifully mundane, almost nothing noteworthy, except Bucky notices that as Steve holds your left hand, he’s absentmindedly running his thumb over your ring finger precisely where a ring would be. Bucky smiles to himself but doesn’t say anything.

A few days later he sees Steve doing it again when you’re all in a car on your way upstate. Steve’s driving, you’re in the passenger seat, and Bucky volunteered to sit in the back so he could read over the long haul, but he notices this even though neither you nor Steve seem to register it happening here either.

The next time Bucky sees it happen again, you’re on the phone, so you don’t hear the soft and single laugh that rumbles out of his chest, but Steve does, and gives him a quizzical look. Bucky shakes his head ever so slightly and mouths a later to Steve.

When Steve corners him later, Bucky tells him exactly what he saw. Steve opens and closes his mouth wordlessly a couple of times, and Bucky laughs. “You want to put a ring on that finger.”

“But there’s no rush,” Steve is quick to say.

“Of course not.”

Steve turns away, then turns back. “You do, too, right?”

Bucky gives him an emphatic nod, an easy smile on his face. He has no question over wanting to spend the rest of his life with the two of you.

When it happens idly a couple more times, Bucky catches Steve’s eye each time and looks pointedly down at your hands, and Steve will stop without trying to be too abrupt or draw your attention in any way. Bucky and Steve have known each other a lifetime, but they’ve never wanted to rush you.

A few months later, as you stand back from putting the last ornament on the tree, Steve takes your left hand and kisses the back of it sweetly as you comment on how the decorations look and Bucky and Steve respond. As he lowers your hands, he locks eyes with Bucky, then drops his eyes down to where his thumb is brushing over your ring finger, and back up to meet Bucky’s gaze. Bucky arches his brow, and Steve inclines his chin just a fraction, the corner of his mouth lifting in a confident statement of his intentions. Bucky beams back at him.

“What are you grinning at?” you ask when neither of them has answered the question you just asked.

“Nothing,” Bucky responds, “we just finished decorating our first Christmas tree with you, of course we’re grinning.”

You look suspiciously between them for half a second. “Okay. I’m ordering Indian for dinner since the question you both completely missed was what you’re in the mood for. But for the record, I know you two are scheming.”

“Us? Never, sweetheart,” Steve says in an exaggeratedly innocent voice, and you roll your eyes.

But Bucky and Steve are discreet and although you do catch them in some of their other plots and schemes over the following weeks, you don’t suspect this is brewing between them. There’s a reason they’ve been unstoppable since childhood, after all.

Day two of the Holiday Extravaganza in the books! I'll be back again tomorrow...

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[mania-sama]

with every line, a comedy

Pale White Horse - The Oh Hellos

➼ 05 - his translucent skin made me shiver deep within my bones ❧ Information (Summary, Tags, Chapters) ❧ Previous Chapter ❧ Next Chapter ❧ Word Count: 5,705 ❧ Cross-posted from Archive of Our Own

Cyno was the first one to greet the two in the morning. There wasn’t a clock in the living room, but the windows showed the moon sitting on the horizon. Great. He forgot Cyno was even more punctual than Alhaitham. There wasn’t any way he was going to be allowed to stroll in late to work.

Alhaitham had been in and out for most of the night. The hearing aids coupled with previous events had kept his thoughts running, irritating him to the point that he considered it would be better if he just took them off. But of course, he didn’t. Not when he could hear Kaveh’s uneven breathing a few feet away from him at all times.

As for Kaveh’s night, the Scribe was well aware that there wasn’t a chance that he’d gotten back to sleep. If he had, they’d probably be dealing with a broken splint and a rush to Bimarstan or the student hospital against Kaveh’s will.

Tighnari soon came down afterward and examined Kaveh’s ankle. Although overall pleased that it hadn’t worsened, he insisted on them seeing a doctor together as soon as possible. Alhaitham noticed Kaveh acted overall neutral to the subject. Overcompensating — pretending his panic attack had never happened in the first place, that he had to consider if he’d trust even his oldest friend with the care of his body.

Breakfast was served by Cyno, who was easily the best cook out of the four. Collei joined them the moment plates were set on the table. Alhaitham had never been particularly close with her, but that didn’t mean they disliked each other. In fact, they’d shared conversations about the types of books they enjoyed. Though the attempt at reading one of her books, and conversely her attempt at reading one of his, went rather poorly, he recognized the merit in her choices of material.

Her demeanor was entirely different from the last time he’d seen her. Collei was a shy and soft-spoken child but wasn’t particularly skittish or weak-willed. Even if she didn’t want to do something, she pushed her way through since she understood the importance of why it had to be done. That consisted of eating, exercising, studying, interacting with others, and more. Alhaitham saw a bit of himself in her, especially in the interaction department.

The girl that sat down at the table next to Kaveh was tired. Dark circles hung like heavy weights from her red-edged violet eyes, and her posture was tense and rigid as if she felt the urge to flee at any given moment. Eye contact was held for only half a second before she went to toy with her food. She was quiet and clearly watching them from behind her eyelashes.

The meal wasn’t silent, but it was quiet in a way that let everyone recover from the night previous. Any conversations they had lacked any real substance, aside from when Tighnari asked about Alhaitham’s dreams again, to which he politely responded for Tighnari to describe his.

Collei ate very little of her food, though she tried to put more down every time either Cyno or Tighnari requested that she eat a little more. From the corner of his eye, he saw Kaveh struggling just the same, even if he was better at hiding it. Alhaitham was certain he was the only one that noticed how Kaveh would swallow twice, lick his lips, and take extra time in preparing the next bite. His eyes would glance at the Scribe’s plate before looking back at his own, seeing how much progress he should be making in comparison to Alhaitham’s slow speed.

The coffee was more bitter than Alhaitham preferred. He watched the sunrise from the window in the dining room, and he had the foreboding feeling that it was going to be a weary day.

And yet, he left before Cyno did. Tighnari accompanied him to the door, and he anticipated what he was going to say before the Forest Watcher opened his mouth.

Lips drawn into a frown, he warned, “Don’t talk about my sex life again until you can figure out yours.”

Alhaitham leveled him a blank stare, leaving the held-open door without a word. Before he could step out of earshot, however, Tighnari’s voice called after him. “I mean it, Alhaitham.” 

The Scribe didn’t grant him a response. On his walk to his house, his hearing aids were held firmly in his hands, deaf to the world and forcing his mind to focus on anything else.

—

Throughout the years that Alhaitham knew Kaveh, he’d noticed one intriguing peculiarity about Kaveh:

He was a strangely private person.

It didn’t seem that way at first. Really, Kaveh didn’t know how to keep his mouth shut most of the time. When they’d first met, Kaveh had sat with Alhaitham and talked his way through the entire lunch and barely stopped enough to eat his meal. He revealed everything there was to seemingly know about him; he was raised by two scholars, he was a student of the Kshahrewar Darshan, a master of trigonometry, loved soup and anything cute, and was generally obnoxious.

He told people so much that they didn’t feel the need to look deeper. They would think, after one conversation, that there wasn’t anything more to know about him. He’d already supposedly spilled their entire life story to them, so why would they try to find out more?

It had worked on Alhaitham for about one day. After that, he began picking up on the qualities that Kaveh didn’t expect people to see, notice or comment on. He expected that his hard-looking shield would deter everyone away from actually hitting it. That way, they wouldn’t find out just how brittle the metal actually was.

Kaveh wasn’t private around Alhaitham much anymore. It was hard to be with the Scribe’s perceptibility and how often they were around each other. Aside from the nightmare situation, Kaveh had given up on hiding. He let every part of his life and personality bare their ugly teeth in the containment of their home.

However, there was one aspect of himself that he’d never revealed to Alhaitham. And for his part, Alhaitham had never cared to push on the subject. He didn’t need to see Kaveh’s bare body. Even if there were days where he found himself picking apart Kaveh’s clothes, imagining what may lay underneath, he’d never brought it up before.

But it was while he was sitting in his office, trying to work through the thick stack of post-meeting documents, that he was struck by the fact that he’d never seen Kaveh’s naked stomach before, nor his thighs.

He wouldn’t know if dark freckle marks were dotting his skin like glittering constellations. Kaveh could have birthmarks of any shape. He was likely pale, paler than the rest of his skin. Would it be smooth from underexposure, or rough from constantly rubbing against his clothes? There could be blemishes, prominent abs on his stomach, or sharp muscle lines stretching across his thighs.

He’d thought about it before. It had kept him awake at night, wondering what he may never get to learn, and how he could go about finding out without driving Kaveh away from him. Because, of course, Kaveh wouldn’t expose himself for Alhaitham's pleasure and curiosity.

Alhaitham had never before contemplated the matter the way he was now.

Scars of Kaveh’s past could be littering uncharted skin. And the shape of those scars, whether they be burnt, large, jagged, narrow, or straight, could be a clear indicator of stories Kaveh left untold about his childhood. They could be the answers to the incessant questions Alhaitham had on childhood surgeries, torture, and escapes.

And there may be nothing there at all. There could be nothing to indicate trauma, nothing to show for physical abuse. Kaveh wouldn’t be hiding anything underneath, but rather keeping what’s there away from other people.

Alhaitham recalled the taut rope, sobbing, and incoherent words, and felt a little nauseated. The paper in front of him blurred out of focus for half a second. It was worse knowing that Kaveh might be afraid of what Alhaitham would do if he ever saw what he kept hidden.

“I hope this isn’t a bad time, my Scribe,” a young voice called, and Alhaitham’s vision cleared immediately. He focused on the Archon and the slight glow she always emanated. He wondered if she was aware of it, the way that people couldn’t help but notice her presence.

The Acting Grand Sage carefully set his pen down on top of the document, a little too aware of the organ working in his chest. “Not at all. What do you need?”

She walked up to his desk with heavy feet. Her eyes were open and imploring as if she could read every emotion on his face. Alhaitham had always been told that he was impossible to read — his facial expressions rarely differed. Kaveh had once said that his eyes would go from narrow to narrower, and that would sometimes be the only indication that his emotions had flipped.

“Kaveh isn’t afraid of you,” she blurted. Immediately, her hands went up and shook them. “I wasn’t trying to read your mind! I… I do it subconsciously. Looking into people’s heads, especially Dendro Vision holders, is like breathing for me. I sincerely apologize.”

“There’s no need,” Alhaitham forgave, and really, the only reason he did was the knowledge she provided and the ease that knowledge set aside. His stomach was still coiled with the theories left untested, but at least one tight knot was set free.

The Archon nodded, though her fingers twisted together in front of her chest uncontrollably. “I didn’t come here to tell you that, anyway. I want to inform you that I’ve found the reason why I can’t help Kaveh directly.” She paused, giving time for Alhaitham to fully prepare for what she was going to say. That, and her voice was uncharacteristically tight. It appeared that it caused her great discomfort to speak aloud. “He blames me for what happened to him.”

“I find that hard to believe,” Alhaitham refuted. His mind was already piecing together the route Kusanli took to come to that conclusion. “He loves his Vision more than he loves himself most days, and he holds you in extremely high regard. I don’t see how he could blame you for something you couldn’t have taken part in.”

Then there was the matter of Collei. Alhaitham had already compared and contrasted them; Collei had even mentioned before that she had screamed for the gods to help her, angry at them for allowing her to be tormented in the first place. Out of the two Dendro wielders, it would be Collei that should be blocking Kusanali out.

“He blames me like how I read minds; it's subconscious. What happened to him occurred in Sumeru, and he thinks he survived it all alone, without any help from me or anyone else,” she mourned. “I hear the prayers he sends in his dreams. I’m not helping him there, either. And that Vision… when he looks at it, he is only reminded of all the times I’ve failed him.”

Alhaitham sat with fighting words on the tip of his tongue, ready to come back to Kaveh’s defense. Even though Alhaitham largely disagreed with his viewpoints, he knew how much Kaveh loved her. He believed that his dedication had finally been recognized by their Archon herself. 

But, he couldn’t deny that her conclusion seemed correct. It was an undeniable fact that Kaveh had unattached his Vision during the night, and hadn’t bothered to reattach it that morning at Cyno’s house before Alhaitham left. Collei, on the other hand, had her's safely pinned to her sides as most Vision wielders preferred. 

“He doesn't attribute a lot of the blame to me,” she continued. “His reservations are mainly held in other places, but it’s enough to block me out. The reason why this doesn’t apply to Collei,” and she looked a little sheepish as she said those words. It was clear she was still reading his mind. “Is that she has already remembered most of her time in treatment before the nightmares started. She’s had time to heal and realize that the only person she can put her anger to is the one that hurt her, not the ones that couldn’t help her.”

Alhaitham finished for her. “Kaveh hasn’t had that time to adjust.”

The Archon shook her head, her shoulders tense and eyes downcast to the floor. “I would apologize to him in person, but doing that would be the equivalent of putting a roof over a young sapling. Its growth would be stunted and deformed, twisting in order to get around the roof and towards the sun.”

In other words, Kaveh wouldn’t heal properly. “There’s more,” Alhaitham prompted.

“... Yes. I’m honestly a little ashamed,” she admitted. Her body rocked side to side. “It’s not just Kaveh, but Sumeru as a whole. My people have been suffering for the past five hundred years, and there is little I can do to help or change that fact. I feel like a tiny fish in a wide, storming sea, trying to make a ripple among raging waves. Apologizing now wouldn’t even make so much as a sound.”

He narrowed his eyes at her. “I’m certain you didn’t come here to gain sympathy from me.”

“No,” she said, and a small smile appeared on her face. “I’m saying this because I want to thank you for all the work you’ve done for me and Sumeru. I know you don’t enjoy being the Acting Grand Sage but If you hadn’t offered to hold the base, the Akademiya would have crumbled by now. You’ve done an amazing job so far.”

Alhaitham stared at the young Archon, unsure of what to do with the praise. People didn’t often acknowledge the work Alhaitham did — they seemed to think his ego was already inflated enough. It was foreign. The last person to congratulate him on a “job well done” was his grandmother, who had long been buried.

Noticing his silence, Kusanali carried on with, “And I want to express my gratitude in more than just words. The issue is that I don’t know what would suffice. My Scribe,” she said with her hands spread wide open, “what would you like from me?”

His first instinct was to bite out “a new Grand Sage,” but he knew that it simply wasn’t feasible. Kusanali had made it his responsibility to pick the next Grand Sage, and so far he hadn’t been able to find a suitable heir to the title. He hadn’t had the time, and all of the candidates were less than exemplary. His second desire was equally as unattainable. Kaveh’s nightmares were far out of Kusanali’s hands.

Why did he care enough about Kaveh to give this divine opportunity to him?

He shut down the line of thought before it could spread. He could think about it later when his Archon couldn’t read just how confused he truly was when he had the time to fall to the same frustrating conclusion he always came to.

Alhaitham didn’t need anything. He supposed the window needed to be replaced, but he already made time to fix that issue at a later date. He wanted to wake up later than six in the morning, but that couldn’t happen until there was someone to take his place in the grand chair he sat on. His life was cozy and complete; other than his occupation and Kaveh, there was nothing he wanted.

“Your dreams,” Kusanali said, interrupting Alhaitham’s vigorous search for a request. He looked at her curiously. “How do you feel about them?”

He couldn’t remember his first dream, but that didn’t surprise him. His research on the topic showed that recalling dreams, especially after an extended period of time after they originally occurred, was exceptionally hard. Unless the dream caused an extreme emotion or was vivid enough, most people go their whole lives with only being able to remember a handful of their dreams.

However, he could recall his second and third dreams relatively well. In his second dream, his house was burning down, and he went down with it in search of his roommate still trapped inside. A few of the details blurred at the edges. His third dream, a ship capsizing with Kaveh as a drowning prisoner underneath, still exceedingly clear in his mind’s eye. His heartfelt desperation to release Kaveh was as vivid as it was real in the waking world. When Alhaitham analyzed it, he wondered why he hadn’t dreamt of either his Vision or Kaveh’s.

Dreaming, as he’d learned, is a way for the brain to process information. He didn’t mind that he was having them based on that fact, but Kusanali wasn’t asking for his opinion on the objective truth of his dreams. She wanted to hear what he felt.

If she’d asked Kaveh the same question, he would’ve said that his dreams made him feel fear and out of control of his life. Alhaitham knew this because he’d observed Kaveh react to his dreams and mask his emotions in an effort to regain authority over his own mind.

“I don’t hate them,” he started. “I’m aware of their value in processing information. That doesn’t mean I appreciate what their contents are. During the day, I watch Kaveh suffer. Then at night, I relive it all over again. I can’t escape his pain or mine.”

Even in his office, far away from the architectural work Kaveh was laboring over, his mind persisted in reminding him of all that his roommate wasn’t telling him, all that he was dealing with alone in his own head. He never truthfully ceased reflecting on Kaveh and his situation, and Archons-forbid if Tighnari’s incessant voice echoed in his thoughts one more time Alhaitham might have to go the rest of the day without his hearing aids. It wasn’t like he cared to hear anyone’s voices anyway.

When he slept, it was a respite from the day he had. Since upholding the title of Acting Grand Sage, Alhaitham had craved that solace even more. Now, his dreams prevented him from receiving that break.

Lesser Lord Kusanali put a hand on her chin and stared thoughtfully at the desk in front of him. “Thank you for telling me, Alhaitham. Even if it’s just for one night, I’ll see what I can do for you and your dreams.”

Alhaitham nodded to her. “Is there anything else you wanted to talk to me about?”

“No. Please, continue your work and I will continue mine. We are making Sumeru better every day.” She smiled and winked at him. Instead of walking to the elevator, she blinked out of his sight. The only indicator that she had even been in the room was the faint green outline of the body that permeated the air. 

Now that he reflected on it, she hadn’t come in through the elevator, either.

Blinking away the reflection, he returned to the document on his desk. Kusanali had cleared his head and ebbed away his growing anxiety and overstimulation. Sifting through papers wasn’t fun regardless, but it was easier to do when he wasn’t focused on Kaveh. Instead, he thought of his dreams and how Kusanali intended on influencing them. The logistics played in the background of his mind as he approved another paper.

—

Alhaitham hated being the Acting Grand Sage of the Akademiya. It was exhausting, hard work that was incredibly boring at the same time. He had chosen to be the Scribe of the Akademiya for a reason; it was easy work that rarely took up much time during his day. The title of Acting Grand Sage guaranteed the exact opposite.

Worst of all, the meeting he had scheduled later that day to further the process of choosing the next Grand Sage since two of the sages were ill with the flu. The virus had been spreading through the Akademiya during finals week, and the students that had all caught it from their weakened immune systems due to stress had spread it to their mentors.

Of course they spread it to their mentors. Alhaitham used a sparing prayer to Kusanali, silently asking her to protect Kaveh from the illness. Not because he was worried Kaveh wouldn’t make it, but because he would spread it to Alhaitham. There were few things that Alhaitham despised more than being sick.

As he walked to his house, he eyed the Matra tailing him. Then he spotted the ones lurking further up the street, finding himself disappointed that Cyno hadn’t been lying.

Cyno had dropped by his office soon after Kusanali left. The visit wasn’t overall unexpected; if he was in the city, he would make the personal trip to drop off the reports and case files that Alhaitham had to analyze and approve. The General Mahamatra acted first on reports, but they did wind their way to the Grand Sage for a second opinion. If he wanted to have a case halted or pursued, he had the authority to override the General Mahamatra’s decision.

Alhaitham knew that Cyno would do what he believed to be righteous no matter what the Grand Sage thought, so he didn’t even bother to correct his decision. The most he would do was read the first passage of the report in the instance that it was intriguing.

When Cyno had delivered the papers, he warned Alhaitham that he, Kaveh, and their shared house would be on surveillance for the next week. The General Mahamatra then showed him the report that he’d filled out. Kaveh and Tighnari’s names had been listed as the correspondents.

“We’re going to snuff out the criminals as soon as possible,” Cyno had said, his eyes narrowed and unamused. “But if they manage to catch wind of this before we get to them, Kaveh could be targeted, and you by extension. I’m keeping you both safe this way.”

Alhaitham had carefully held the paperclipped stack in his hands, flipping through the pages until he landed upon a blueprint and a sketch. They looked just like the ones that Kaveh was working on for his commission. The one that had needed it to be finished as soon as possible, and even paying extra for maximum efficiency.

Before the Acting Grand Sage could open his mouth, Cyno had said, “I advise you to talk to Kaveh about this. He wasn’t taking it well when he gave me the report. Tighnari and I convinced him not to drink, but it’s been a few hours. I don’t know how well our advice stuck.”

Alhaitham was fully expecting to open his door to either two situations:

One. Bottles strewn across the living room with the architectural drawings ripped up in a pile. Kaveh would be drunk out of conscious thought, mumbling his woes into Alhaitham’s ear.

Two. The papers would be intact, but Kaveh wouldn’t be home. He’d be at the tavern, drinking his sorrows where Alhaitham couldn’t see his pitiful state.

With a Matra staring coldly at his back from across the street, he prepared himself for either scenario. The blanket that had been re-tied over the empty window slot moved with the door. Alhaitham tugged it behind him as quickly as he could, not wanting the Matra to see the scene inside.

Kaveh was home.

There weren’t any empty bottles. There weren’t any bottles at all. The living room was spotless clean of any dust, dirt, and architectural sketches. The book that Alhaitham had left open after he’d departed that morning had been closed and tucked into its proper place. A distinct smell of cooked meat and roasted vegetables drifted through the house.

The Light of Kshahrewar sat hunched over on the center couch, a paper clenched in his hands. He didn’t react to Alhaitham’s entrance. 

“Kaveh?” Alhaitham called, making his way over to his roommate. The only indication that Kaveh had heard him was a small bob in his throat as he swallowed.

When he reached his side, the Scribe didn’t pick up on any trace of scents of alcohol. His clothes were unmussed, his hair pinned back in his usual style, and his skin glistened like he’d taken a long, hot water bath. A proper splint covered his foot and ankle, meaning he’d made it to the doctor and back just fine.

His ruby eyes were blank and unseeing. The paper in his palms was crinkled from constant pressure, and the ink had been smeared in various places. It was otherwise free of variant marks and stains. It did not tremble or move in Kaveh’s grip. The architect was as still as a statue carved by his own hands.

Alhaitham sat beside his roommate on the couch slowly. He recognized this routine now. If he tried to say anything more, the results would be static and unchanging. Perhaps he wouldn’t make it worse, but he certainly wouldn’t achieve any progress.

He could violently pull Kaveh from the couch. It could startle him into the present, or he could be an emotionless doll. Under Alhaitham’s hands, he would allow himself to be pushed in any direction or touched in any way without a reaction at all. Alhaitham could tear the sketch to pieces, light his blond hair on fire, rip the earrings from his skin, and Kaveh wouldn’t make a sound.

The Scribe laid his hands on his lap and stared forward, letting himself drown in the static feedback from his hearing aids. Normally, everything had sound. The air moving, Kaveh’s breath, their house creaking — the only time he could ever escape it was when he took off his hearing aids. Now, it seemed like the world had sewn its mouth shut.

Silence was Alhaitham’s comfort. It was his blanket. He had lived without sound until his grandmother had fitted him with a pair of hearing aids. He hadn’t worn them often, then; he hadn’t cared to. It was only after he’d been a year into studying at the Akademiya that he’d crafted his own pair of hearing aids, ones that reverberated sound back to his eardrums as though he’d been born listening to the city’s bustle and the scholars’ debates.

His hearing aids weren’t made for the convenience of others. If someone wanted to converse with him, they’d find a way to do it. They’d learn sign language like they would any other ancient language they had to study in order to graduate, or they’d write what they wanted to say. Alhaitham had developed a keen eye for reading lips and understanding the words being spoken. He didn’t make them for the convenience of himself. He didn’t have any issues with his perpetually deaf world, and the occasional rough sound the old hearing aids provided.

He’d made them because, for the first time, he wanted to clearly hear someone’s voice other than his grandmother’s.

He had met Kaveh a year into his higher education career.

In the presence of Kaveh, silence was disturbing. He wore his hearing aids around his roommate for a reason. They were not meant to ring with static alone.

“They told me it was a ranch.”

Kaveh’s voice was not quiet. It was not choked. It was entirely blank, void of any of the depression, fury, or regret that Alhaitham associated with the architect. It matched his posture, the living room, his cleaned body, the scent of cooked food permeating the air, his dull ruby eyes.

“I had known they were lying. It looks nothing like a ranch.”

His voice was nothing at all.

“My first draft certainly looked like one. We talked about the modifications, and though I argued with them, I couldn’t pass up the mora they were offering. They knew what they were talking about, exactly what they wanted. If they wanted a terrible ranch, then that’s what they were getting,” Kaveh continued. His gaze was in the present, but not exactly focused on the sketch. “Cyno has already told you about this, hasn’t he?”

That was the first indicator that he’d acknowledged and recognized Alhaitham’s presence. Just because he’d been talking didn’t mean he’d known exactly who he’d been talking to. But the use of Cyno’s name showed that Kaveh was acutely aware of his surroundings, no matter how absent he had been before.

Alhaitham’s voice was toneless when he said, “Very little. I skimmed the first paragraph of the report; I want to hear the rest from you.”

His hearing aids rang with silence as he waited patiently for a response.

“The plan includes bedrooms, bathrooms, and a kitchen. At first glance it seems normal, but then you take into consideration everything you’d need in a house in general, not to mention a ranch house, and it certainly doesn’t meet the standards. Then there’s the fact that it’s in the center of the ranch, where the animals are roaming all around, and there aren’t any sheltered areas designed for animals themselves,” he monotonously explained. “But I’d explained all of the problems to them already. They didn’t care. This was the way they wanted it.”

For the first time since Alhaitham got there, Kaveh moved. It wasn’t much — he changed his grip on the paper so he had one free hand while the other prevented the paper from flopping at the edges. Kaveh lightly traced the outline of a fence on the sketch with his pointer finger. Alhaitham followed the finger intently, his attention flicking back and forth between the sketch and the architect’s face.

“It was the f…” His voice cut out, failing on the word he’d intended to say. He blinked, possibly for the first time in a while, and took a moment to regain his speech. “Fence. Ranches require specific types of fences for a list of reasons I won’t bore you with. There can be leniency for people as uneducated as the commissioners, but a palisade is obviously out of the cards for a ranch. The perimeter also wasn’t long enough for any type of ranch animal, nor the area big enough to provide enough space.”

Alhaitham had come to that conclusion on his own. He hadn’t asked Kaveh to explain it because he didn’t understand the logistics, he did it under the assumption that it would help Kaveh process the information and begin healing from it.

Looking at him then, Alhaitham realized that the issue ran deeper than he had originally thought.

“It’s meant to keep people, ” Kaveh started, and then choked on his own sentence. He let the sketch flutter softly from his hands onto the ground in front of him. His eyes were scrunched up together and his teeth were bared in a half-snarl. The usual shine that came with unshed tears was absent from his gutted face. “It’s meant to keep people in. Meant to harvest their organs and throw them out once they are emptied of anything to sell.”

When Kaveh stood, he staggered, tripping over his splint and hitting the edge of the table. The sketch crinkled and tore under Kaveh’s weight. Alhaitham stood up with him, reaching out to steady him before he fell. What he received for his efforts was a hand wildly swatting him away and a strangely level voice that said, “I don’t need your help.” Those ruby eyes, the ones that Alhaitham could never get enough of — the way they were so unique, their color descending from a deep crimson to a dusted pink, always so expressive of frustration and excitement — met Alhaitham’s with a glaring intensity. “I have never asked for it.”

And his nose was flared, and his hands were balled into fists, and he was favoring both legs as he roughly pushed past Alhaitham. His bedroom door slammed, rattling the vase settled by a set of books on the shelf beside the center couch. The sound reverberated into Alhaitham’s hearing aids, and they reminded the Scribe just how sensitive they were with an ear-piercing screech.

Fresh dust settled in the newly-cleaned house. The aroma of cooked meat and roasted vegetables filled the space where the smell of Kaveh’s shampooed hair had once been. Light streamed in from where the blanket had come slightly undone. The ever-present sound of silence wrapped around Alhaitham like the Grim Reaper’s skeleton hand.

Alhaitham tied the blanket back over the empty space where the window should be. He checked the kitchen to see a plate carefully preserved for him. It had meat and vegetables and a glass of water on the side. His footsteps were light and even as he brought the food to the dinner table. He kept his mouth closed and chewed slow as he ate alone. His mind was blank as he tried to think.

Lesser Lord Kusanali’s words bounced around in his head, reminding him constantly of their weight. It made him want to plunge his steak knife into a carotid artery. It gave him urges, not thoughts, not plans, not ideas. Only the strong urge to do something incredibly and uncharacteristically impulsive. Alhaitham prided himself on the fact that he did not do anything without consideration beforehand, and that he didn’t have compulsions since they were entirely illogical, reckless, and without cause.

Alhaitham wanted to flip the dinner table. He wanted to choke on his food. He wanted to cradle Kaveh’s head and beg to see his stomach and thighs. He wanted to shake his Archon’s little body and scream in her face. 

Alhaitham did not act on his urges. Instead, he tossed his hearing aids onto the wooden table, took a deep breath, and ate the rest of his food in the complete, utterly deaf world he belonged to.

He wanted to be able to think, but the dead silence in his head was infinitely better than the uncontrollable voices scraping his brain like a dog that’s been trapped in a cage for days, making his hands shake and his heart burst. Having real thoughts would have to come later, when he calmed down and could open his mouth for anything other than eating.

[bearsinpotatosacks]

Something That Does Right by You - Chapter 1

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Goose gets some bad news in the morning, and Bradley's in a rush to get somewhere.

Words: 2182

One thing he wasn’t going to miss about Navy life was the early mornings, he thought as he shuffled into the kitchen with his dressing gown on. He was an early bird but any time before six AM was too much for a man just turning sixty. God that was old. What happened to the days of his youth when anything was possible? When bad shit could happen and it was just any other tuesday? Now if his dinner was cold it could send him spiralling sometimes.

There was a drifting waft of something sizzling as he walked toward the kitchen. Early morning radio hummed in the background as the toaster popped and a quiet ‘shit!’ was called with rage seething around the sides. He could make it known to Ron that he was awake so he could swear and shout to his heart’s content, like he did all the time when he was awake, but that would ruin the fun. 

After a quick glance through the sliding patio doors, he knew the dogs were out of the way. They were just too damn happy sometimes, always barked and jumped whenever he or Ron got home, you’d think they were still puppies honestly. Bert and Ernie were not puppies, however, they were two brother German Shepards. Bert was tan with a black saddle and Ernie a dazzling sable. Their trace hairs were scattered all over the sofas despite how much their cleaner spent vacuuming the cushions.

He turned back to Ron and realised that, for a RIO, he didn’t have good instincts sometimes. Of course that was partially because he was half deaf. But there was a sixth sense the Navy trained into you in flight school that was hard to shake. Apparently not as hard as he thought.

Snaking his hands around his middle, Ron jumped a mile in the air, almost smacking him on the head with his spatula as he grumbled under his breath.

“What did you do that for?” He shouted at far too loud a volume for how close he was to him.

“No need to shout,” he said. 

“What?!”

“No need to sho-” he huffed and gestured toward his ears. “Turn your hearing aids on!”

“I haven’t got my hearing aid on!”

Goose shook his head, rubbing his forehead with his hand. “You fucking dumbass.”

Ron flicked the switch on his hearing aid on. “What did you say? I didn’t have my hearing aid on.”

“I was telling you to switch it on,”

“Well that’s no use now, I’ve got it on.”

“I know that!” Goose said. “What’s for breakfast, anyway?”

He took a sniff of the bacon and saw two fried eggs popping next to it in the pan. Toast was sitting up in the toaster. Two cups of coffee on the side beside two plates. A perfect breakfast for a long day of testing. Over the past few years, he’d really started to enjoy Ron’s early retirement, purely because he’d started to get into cooking, so he could now do more than just burnt toast and overdone eggs.

“Food, that’s what, now sit down sweetcheeks. You’ve got a busy day ahead of you.” He said, dripping with sarcasm.

“Aw, said like a true househusband.”

Goose sat down at the table while Ron flipped him off. After placing it all on the plate, garnishing with salt, pepper and a few sprigs of herbs, he quickly let the dogs in, from where they were waiting in the conservatory, and sat down to eat. For a moment they were quiet, the dogs, well trained, sitting at their feet.

“So, what’s on the agenda today, Admiral?” Ron asked.

“You know that’s classified.”

“Hasn’t stopped you before.” He asked. “Plus, I was a Captain once, you know.”

“Not anymore, old timer.”

Ron stuck his tongue out, Goose chuckled and took a long sip of his coffee.

“Fine, we’re going for Mach 9.”

“Jesus, how fast is that again?”

He thought for a moment. They were making so many improvements, with plenty of failures along the way, and sure they’d been happening slowly, almost too slowly for some, but the fact that he was even partially in charge of a project this important was filling him with confidence.

“About 6000 miles per hour.”

“Fuck,” was all he said. “Whatever I’ve said about Mav in the past, you can’t say he isn’t brave for flying that thing.”

Goose said around a mouthful of bacon and egg. “I’m telling him that.”

“You can tell him this too, that I can’t tell whether it’s brave or stupid to offer to fly a machine that could kill you if anything went wrong.”

“Ain’t that the problems with any jet,” he said. “Couldn’t the F-14 go like 1500 miles an hour?”

“Touche, touche.”

After finishing their food, Goose sat back in his chair and cradled his coffee. Bert rested his head on his lap. He’d mastered the look to get cuddles, and Nick hadn’t built immunity yet, so instinctively began to stroke his head.

“Anyway, enough about classified information I shouldn’t be telling you. What are you doing today?”

Ron, who was doing the same to Ernie, who’d partially flopped onto his lap now, just smirked at him. “Well, while you’re stressing about deadlines and early wake ups, I’ll be doing as little as possible.” He said. “I’m gonna make another cup of coffee, read the news, play some tennis and come home for a nap.”

Goose hummed. That was what he was looking forward to. After this project was over, he was going to retire. He’d put a lot of hard work in over the years, and after being told he was at risk for a stroke, being put on blood thinners just to prevent that, and having enough of the bratty internal politics of naval bureaucracy, he’d really been getting jealous of Ron’s easy life.

They had his two pensions, one from the navy, one from American Airlines, and Nick’s wages, they were set up for a healthy retirement. Sure, he’d been forcibly retired due to his gradual hearing loss due to too many metal concerts and the general volume of jets over the years, but now he’d settled into it, it had really begun to suit him.

“That sounds like heaven,” he said.

“Well, think of it this way, sweetcheeks, the quicker that darkstar of yours is approved, the quicker you can tell them to kiss your ass and walk out the door.”

“I won’t be telling them to do that.”

“But you could.”

“I wouldn’t though-”

This carried on for a few minutes until Nick’s phone lit up in his pocket. The number didn’t fill him with confidence. Ron looked up from where he was fully focused on stroking Ernie’s head, raising his eyebrows. His face must have fell with how Ron looked at him. He placed his phone back in his pocket with a frown.

“What was that about?” He asked.

Goose got up, the chair screeching across the tiled floor. Bert went back a few paces as he made his way to the door. A sudden urgency flooded through him.

“Hello? Earth to Goose?”

Ron followed him through to the hall. Despite not knowing what had changed, he still passed him his coat as he slid on his shoes and grabbed his briefcase. The dogs followed too, wearing the same forlorn expression that they always wore when he went to work.

“They pulled the Darkstar project.”

“What? But you’ve worked on that for almost a decade!”

“You don’t have to tell me twice,”

Ron stepped back for a second. “Where are you going then?”

“Gotta call Mav, gotta convince them not to scrap it.”

He opened the door and pressed the button for the garage to open. Feeling around for his car keys, he began to rush out of the door, only for Ron to turn him around with them jingling on his finger.

“You’re not retiring?” He was wearing the same expression as the dogs were. “We said that after the Darkstar project-”

He reached for the keys but Ron pulled his hand back. “But not like this, I want to do it feeling completed, end on a high, not another example of how people like us are being replaced on every front by my bosses.”

Ron gave in and lent forward to give him a kiss. He wished him good luck, stroked his moustache as he let him go and closed the door behind him.

~~~~

An announcement beeped over the speaker system. ‘This is the last call for Gate 2 for the 0900 Flight to San Diego International Airport.’. It repeated again in Spanish as people began to move toward Gate 2. 

“Oh, is that yours?” His mum asked over the phone.

Her face was slightly pixelated on the screen but he could still see how her face dropped. It had been a while since he’d seen her, six months of deployment in the middle of the ocean had taken its toll and the idea that he was getting leave for a good few months had been one of the few things that had stopped her from constantly worrying. Until this special mission came up that is.

He’d been excited when he’d heard. Feeling special when it came to the Navy was something that they didn’t really encourage, they needed everyone to work as a team, and some people being special could encourage rivalries, meaning more people could get hurt. Not that this attempt at unity actually worked, there was plenty of low level bullying and intimidation behind closed doors. Hangman flashed into his mind, not that that was an entirely Navy related affair. 

“Yeah, I’ve been holding off but I think I actually need to go now,”

“Yeah, can’t have you missing your flight,”

“I usually leave it until late anyway, I mean, we’re all getting on the same flight, so what’s the point of being early, right?”

She laughed and nodded. He saw her wipe her eyes and sniff, trying to put on a brave face that he could always see through. His mum had no filter, whether it was insults or her emotions, she couldn’t hold anything back even if she wanted to. Which made her battle with cancer even worse because despite her best efforts, she couldn’t hide the side effects of the chemo as much as she would’ve liked. Bradley still felt uneasy around hospitals and when throwing up. 

“Have a good flight, honey, okay?” She said. “Call me when you land.”

“You know I will,”

Her face dropped again. They’d both been looking forward to seeing each other for the first time in a year, he’d been out here in Virginia, whether on deployment or not, for so long.

“I love you,” She blew a kiss toward the screen.

“Love you too, and Charlie, send her my love.”

She smiled again. Charlie was already working, even at eight o’clock in the morning, or seven in Texas. There was a reason she was the top professor in her department. That’s where they’d met, Charlie was a new professor for physics and political science, his mum was finally doing that masters she’d wanted to do for years, but never had the time because of being a single mother. Not that she’d made him feel like that, she made it known that he was the best thing in her life and she wouldn’t change anything, that didn’t mean that she didn’t have goals outside of being a mother.

He’d never called Charlie ‘mom’, despite her being in his life for over ten years now. Perhaps it was because he’d moved out when they’d met, he was trying to be an adult, and feeling like he was failing in some parts, so hadn’t had to adapt as quickly as he would’ve done if he was still at home. He’d made sure that she looked after his mum though.

“Will do, she’s probably nose deep in papers by now.”

‘Will any passengers for the 0900 flight to San Diego please go to Gate 2 as boarding will soon be closing.’

“Okay, I really have to go now, bye.”

She waved as he ended the call, her pixelated image on the screen as he switched his phone into aeroplane mode and rushed off to his gate. 

Despite her worry, he was excited for this mission, whatever it may hold. He started to run, seeing other people either in the queue to Gate 2 or sat around for other flights. With his passport and ticket in hand, he managed to get to the front desk just in time. Luckily, the Navy kept him fit as he would be exhausted from that last sprint.

"Have a good flight," said the flight attendant.

"I will." He replied, walking onto the plane.

He stared out the window after he took his seat. It had been a while since he’d been to Top Gun, new faces and old flashing in his mind. He couldn’t help but wonder what it was all about.

So many more people were interested in this idea than I thought would be. It's really motivated me with this but I will say that I'm currently prewriting for whumptober and there's some big fics there, so if updates get sparse then that's why. It's a little hard to write multiple fics per day, work 9 hours and look after yourself so got to make sure I'm taking care of myself.

Anyway, Goose and Slider are married, and either early 60s or late 50s. They have 2 dogs and are really fucking rich. Have you seen the salary for an admiral?! Also Mav's salary is massive to so I have no idea how his card is declined in TGM, unless he has to money skills and is in debt or just impulse bought his P-51 mustang.

Taglist: @pollyna @shadeds-library

Tell me if you want to be added!

[curvykittyyssmutfics]

Ok ok what about Chris Evans having a short sized girlfriend, reader (her height is up to his breast). He loves to fuck her pussy and calling her his little girl! 🥵

Okay.. Yes, yes and more yes. Now this will be interesting because I'm not short so I def want the the feedback if I nailed the intensity of being crowded by Chris but being to little to escape his torturous pleasure.

Morning Delight

I can hear footsteps above me and know Chris is finally awake. Perfect timing; I speed up pouring his coffee and make him a plate of breakfast. Everything looked perfect and I hoped my fine ass man was hungry.

After a few more moments of listening to him above me, I glance up to see him descend the staircase lookin like a fuckin snack: his soft dark blonde neck length hair beggin me to pull it; scruffy face reminding me of when he pinned me to our bed and ate me till I cried, rubbing his beard against my thighs occasionally. He had my fave black cotton sleep pants on, the ones that hugged his big dick just how I like. Fuck, he looked soooo good.

"Good morning Chris." I say as I just finish making his coffee.

"Hey sweetheart. You weren't in bed when I awoke." He states a bit grumpy, arms reaching around me from behind to pull me back against him as he leans into me. His chin sits on the top of my head, as he clutches me to him in a snug hug.

"I know, babe, sorry. Just wanted to make sure you ate before you left for filming today." I reply closing my eyes and enjoying his embrace.

"You look so beautiful in just my shirt. I love seein you in my clothes." He admits, hugging me to him a bit tighter. It feels so nice to feel his warm defined body damn near glued to mine and I can't help turning in his arms, my short ass havin to stand on the tips of my toes so I can connect our lips. He bends down to help me reach and I kiss him slow before he groans and deepens it, pushing his tongue into my mouth. I can taste the mint of his toothpaste as I suck on it.

He makes another noise and I can feel his chubby dick get hard against my belly. My pussy clenches when I feel it twitch against me. His hands are roaming my body, stopping to squeeze the fat of my naked ass, moving to the front of me to caress my tummy before sliding up and groping my breast. He breaks the kiss slowly, eyes looking intently on mine. "Dammit little girl, got me so ready to slide in that tight tiny pussy and I haven't even had a taste of that delicious breakfast you made me yet." He chuckles amused.

"Fuck breakfast, Chris." I say, still a little breathless from our kiss. His words rile me up quickly and if I'll be putting anything in my mouth it'll be that dick, and only that dick. "Eat after, I'm so ready for you." I rush out, pressing our lips together again quickly, taking him by surprise.

His hands reach under my ass and he lifts me up so I can reach his lips better. I kiss him passionately, moaning out how horny I am against his mouth. His lips are so sensual and soft, turning me into a puddle as he trails them from mine to my neck.

"How do you want it pretty girl?" He asks, his mouth on my sensitive skin makin me shiver a bit.

"Any way you want Christopher." I moan out to him. "I'm so wet already, no foreplay. Inside. Now."

Chris smirks as he walks us to the counter opposite us and sets me on my feet. "Oh so you callin the shots?." He teases, his tall ass looking down at me, making me feel even smaller than I am.

"I am." I say simply, turning around and leaning forward on the counter, ass in the air. His shirt rides up on me and I turn my neck to see him focusing on my slit. I know he see the wetness seeping outta me, I'm fuckin droolin for him down there at this point. I shake my ass a little, knowing he enjoys the jiggle of it. His eyes dart between my ass and my pussy, the latter starting to drip.

"Fuckin actin like a little slut." He groans, stepping up behind me and pulling his dick from his pants, rubbing it through my folds to coat himself in my juices. I moan, pushing back, trying to slip the tip of his fat dick inside. He resists and 'tsks' at me, continuing to use me to wet his dick up and moaning, "I'ma fuck you like one then."

That's the only warning I get as he slams in a little more than halfway, the slight curve in his fat dick forcing it's way through my walls. My head falls back and I wail my surprised pleasure, nails scraping against the counter as I try to clutch at something, anything. I almost miss his own groan of satisfaction as he grips my hips tight, not moving for a moment before slamming me down on the rest of his cock.

I yelp, leaning forward to take some of the pressure outta my gut at the forceful impaling of me on his dick but I feel a hand in my hair pulling me back till I'm against his chest. Chris bends down to bring his lips to my ear, and the position has got his dick pushin against my walls inna whole other way.

"Nu uhn, Sweetheart. Where you goin? You damn near begged for this: ain't no runnin." He says and I know he's gonna take a special kinda enjoyment in ruinin me. I shakily take a breath to prepare myself for the onslaught.

He pulls out slowly, a few seconds going by before he plunges back in deep and quick. His hand leaves my hair to join his other around my waist, using me like a doll. I'm already sweaty as fuck, my hair becoming messy and sticking to the sides of my face. I can't speak, already to fucked out for anything to come outta my mouth except wordless wails. I can happily admit I'm moaning like a whore in a brothel at his intense fucking.

"Fuuuuuck, this is the best p-pussy. ." He moans out, tossing his head back and speeding his thrusts a bit. "Your pussy is so tight, little girl. C-cant last that long this time."

At this point, this man must be talking to his damn self because I can barely hear him with the rushing in my ears and the dickin I'm gettin. I can't help but lean forward on the counter, a small unintentional escape attempt from his thick ass cock.

His head immediately flashes down so he can look at me through slightly narrowed eyes. "Really, little girl? Tryna escape me ag-gain?" He grits out through clenched teeth. He stops his thrust to lean forward on me, dick in me as deep as possible as his hips pin and lift me abit. Only the tips of my toes reach the floor as my fingers scramble against the counter. I keen then sob as his tall frame dwarfs mine and keeps me locked in place as he resumes thrusting at a quick pace, strokes now gratingly deep.

"What's wrong, little girl? C-cat got your tongue." He mocks as he twists and rolls his hips sporadically, givin every inch of the walls of my pussy a taste of his big dick. The pressure is slowly starting to build inside me and my mouth opens and closes as I try to speak. He notices my open mouth and cradles my face with one hand, his middle finger slipping in my mouth as he doubles down in his thrusting. His other hand finds my clit and alternates between slow and fast circles.

My tummy twitches as my pleasure mounts, pussy leaving creamy rings around his dick as he leans into me me more, pinning me harder against the counter. I can't even feel my fuckin toes at this point to know if I'm still touchin the floor. The feeling of being held down by someone so much bigger than me has my ass horny as fuck and my insides can't decide between clutching or fluttering around his dick as I get closer and closer to flooding the fine ass man rearranging my insides.

"Fuuuck baby, stop c-clenching. Gonna make me f-fuckin cum, don't wanna." He groans, removing his finger from my between my lips, his other still rubbing my clit. I try to obey but everything is finally coming to a head as his dick jabs my pussy repeatedly, my clit stiff as fuck as I cum. I'm wailing and crying as the crest rides higher and higher, while his hips stutter for a second then continue to ride me as fast as he can.

"No baby, n-noooo. Don't cum y-" He starts to moan, til he feels the first squirt of my wetness gush hard around his dick. He's almost pushed out, if it wasn't for the grip my pussy had on him and the way he had me pinned. "Ahhhh fuuuuuck, fuck it, gonna flood that tiny pretty p-pussy, little girl. Fuckin take it- take it- take it." He groans through clenched teeth as he shoots excessively into me, his moans punctuated by his deep thrusts. I can feel his cum splash heavily against my walls and whine at the feeling of him giving me a thick, fat creampie. My fuzzy brain loses count after his 6th gush against my womb. I'm utterly fucked out as his fuckin slows to small, light humping motions while he leaks vigorously into me.

"Fuuuuuck baby, that was so good. Thank you." He says, still trying to catch his breath. He eases outta me, his hips unpinning mine from the counter, finally letting my feet reach the kitchen's cold tile floor.

I'm limp and satisfied against the counter for a few moments before Chris turns me around and kneels in front of me, eye level with my swollen little puss. I'm still outta breath, wondering what the hell he's up to.

"What?" Chris asks, feigning innocence, looking up at the expression on my face briefly, before returning his gaze to the mess he made between my legs. "Time for breakfast." He says smugly, placing a soft kiss on my clit.

[maybeimamuppet]

i'll be there for christmas (1/3)

hellooooo everyone!! happy holidays to everyone who celebrates something and happy day to everyone who doesn’t!! i hope it’s been wonderful :)

welcome to officially the longest thing i’ve ever written!! yeeha this is apparently the length of a novel so that’s fuckin wild 

and it’s also a gift for my love. merry christmas (or whenever you read this :p) you’re the answer to a wish i didn’t know i was making and i’m so thankful every day that you came into my life. i love you so much <;33

for the rest of you!! tw for 

dysfunctional family dynamics

mentioned homophobia 

mentioned outing 

and as always if i’ve missed something please let me know so i can add it in :) 

enjoy!!

————

Janis wakes up to the sound of her ringtone. 

Not her alarm. She has them set to different sounds. Her ringtone. 

She groans and sits up in bed, brushing her dark hair out of her eyes and fumbling for her phone on her nightstand. 

She huffs when she sees Damian’s name and stupid picture lighting up her screen; her phone buzzing in her hand in a desperate bid for her attention. She hits the green button and puts her phone to her ear.

“What do-”

“Where the fuck are you?” Damian huffs on the other end. “It is nine fifteen, you are half an hour late for your shift, madam. It is the week before Thanksgiving, you know damn well everyone and their mother is getting coffee before they have to deal with their miserable families-”

“Fuck! Shit, Dame, I’m-” Janis begins, flying out of bed and throwing all her clothes out of the hamper to find her work uniform. “I overslept, I’m- shit!” 

“Just get here, I’ll cover for you if boss man shows up,” Damian sighs. “This is the last time, though.”

“I love you,” Janis says. “I gotta go, gimme ten.”

“Ten only.” 

“Maybe fifteen.”

“Ten!” 

“Ten,” Janis echoes, hanging up the phone and grabbing her work hat off its hook by the door. “Fuck my life.”

—-

Janis manages to make it out the door in three minutes flat. Her uniform is stained and wrinkled since she forgot to wash it, her hair and teeth aren’t brushed, she didn’t eat breakfast, and her shoes are untied, but she made it out the door in three minutes and that has to be enough on a morning like this. 

She has her cap hanging out of her mouth as she ties her hair back in a lazy sort of knot, running the four blocks to the coffee shop. 

She sighs when she sees it come into her view, bracing internally for… something. Every day is different. None of them are necessarily good. But they’re all different. 

She’s about to open the door when it flies open at her. She stumbles backwards to avoid a face full of glass door and trips over her untied shoelaces. 

“Watch where you’re fucking going!” she scoffs to the woman who landed on top of her. 

“Me?! You should tie your fucking shoes!” the woman yells. 

“And you should watch for innocent pedestrians before you take off for your fucking marathon!” 

“Do you have any idea who you’re talking to?!”

“A fucking nutcase, clearly!” Janis yells. “Now if you’ll excuse me, your highness, I have a fucking shift I’m late for. Sorry to be in your way with my… common… ness. Look, just leave!” 

“For all you know I’m a paying customer!” the woman yells after her as Janis stalks into the shop. 

“I’m not on the clock yet!” Janis retaliates. “Have a fucking fantastic day, enjoy trampling people!” 

“Hmph!” the woman huffs, rushing off down the sidewalk. Janis shoves her way back through into the employee area to clock in. 

“What the fuck have you done?!” Damian yells, slamming the door open after her.

“What?” Janis sighs, swiping her employee ID card through the system. 

“Do you have any idea who you just yelled at on the fucking sidewalk?!” 

“Some blind businesswoman? She fucking knocked me on my ass, I was well within my right to yell.”

“That was Cady Heron!” Damian insists. “As in heiress to Heron Enterprises and fucking billionaire, Cady Heron!” 

Janis freezes mid-step on her way back to the main shop. “You’re kidding me.”

“No! You fucking- oh my god, Janis!” 

“I just yelled at the daughter of the person who owns my entire apartment complex.”

“He owns half the city, Janis.”

“I just called the daughter of the person who owns half my city a fucking nutcase.”

“Janis!”

“Alright, look, if I get crucified just… deal with my affairs and I love you dearly. Just don’t… don’t think about what just happened.”

“You yelled at a billionaire!” Damian insists.

“Yes! Continue to remind me of that, thanks a fucking million.”

“Billion.”

“I’m gonna pour hot coffee. All over you. And everything you love,” Janis grumbles, taking her spot behind the counter. 

“Tie your damn shoes.”

“Hot! Coffee!”

—————

The next morning gets off to a smoother start. Damian personally set no fewer than fifteen alarms for her, so she’s up well within a reasonable amount of time.

She can walk instead of sprint today, as she carefully adjusts her freshly washed and ironed uniform. 

“Ms. Sarkisian?” a voice asks as she fluffs her hair out from the collar of her polo. Janis turns on her heel and sees a man in a full three-piece suit standing by a very fancy car. He’s even got one of those funky little handkerchiefs in his pocket. And little white gloves. 

“Maybe. Who’s asking?”

“In the car, please, madam.”

“I don’t think so,” Janis replies, turning back around. “Have a nice day.”

“Miss, I really must insist-”

“Look, I don’t know who you are or what you want with me, but I have a shift to get to. Enjoy your gloves.” 

“Ms. Sarkisian,” a woman’s voice says. Janis turns around again and sees a woman standing behind the now open door to the backseat. Janis winces when she sees it’s her. From yesterday. “Please.” 

Janis looks suspiciously between the two of them. The… driver, Janis presumes, gestures gently to the very expensive car. Janis shoots each of them one last look before she slowly makes her way over and gets in. The woman smiles like the cat that got the canary as she takes the far seat. 

“Whoa,” Janis whispers as she sees the interior. 

“Coffee?” the woman asks as they start driving.

“Oh, um… no, thank you. I, er… get enough of that in my day to day. Listen, I’m so sorry about yesterday, I had no idea who you were and I really can’t afford to be sued right now-”

“I’m not suing you,” the woman says. She sighs and reaches out a hand for Janis to shake. “Let’s just forget all about that, shall we? Cady Heron, pleasure to meet you.” 

“Uh… Janis… Sarkisian,” Janis says awkwardly. How often do you get to shake hands with a billionaire just for her to fuck it up? “Same here.” 

“Janis, can I call you Janis?” Cady begins, speaking so rapidly that Janis doesn’t even get a chance to interject. “I have a small proposition for you.” 

Janis looks as she hands over a manila folder. She opens it and sees a nondisclosure agreement as the first document contained within. What the fresh hell-

“What-”

“Listen, Janis, I’m sure you know by now who I am. And that our… how do I say this delicately, our worlds don’t really overlap. And that is why you are perfect for this,” Cady says. 

“And what exactly is this?” Janis asks, continuing to flick through the documents. 

“I need you to pretend to date me.” 

“I- what?!” Janis says, unable to hold back a laugh. “You- I- what?!” 

“Just hear me out, I implore you,” Cady begs. “I’m not exactly young anymore. I’m twenty-four, you know. My family has… expectations. I’m to be married by twenty-six, and the sooner the better. People, and the press, are beginning to talk. And they’re not exactly saying favorable things. When they talk, the common folk talk, and we… we can’t have that, I’m sure you understand.” 

Janis blinks at her. 

“Anyway, I just need someone to assuage the masses, and my family. And that’s where you come in,” Cady says with a smile that doesn’t meet her eyes. “All I need you to do is pretend to be my partner through Christmas. We’ll be ‘broken up’ by New Year’s and on our own merry ways. I’ll never even come through this part of town in person again if you say the word.” 

“I’m still… why… why me?” 

“You made it very clear yesterday that you have absolutely no idea who I am. The press will love seeing me dating a poor person, and the fact that we know nothing about one another will make our inevitable breakup much easier. And you’re someone I’ll never have to see again. I can fake our grisly separation, milk that for ten years so my parents won’t try to arrange my marriage to anyone and by that point I’ll be running the business and able to use that as an excuse.”

“Wow, you really have this all planned out,” Janis chuckles. “So… I just… have to…” 

“Pretend we’ve been together for about three years. For three weeks. And then I’ll pretend to propose, you say no and leave, I’m heartbroken, we never speak again.” 

“Propose?!” Janis yelps.

“Fake propose,” Cady amends. “So. Thoughts?”

“Why the hell would you think I’d agree to this? We didn’t exactly get off on the right foot yesterday,” Janis says. 

“Might help if you tied your shoes.”

“Not the time,” Janis hisses. “Look, as much as you think we’d never see each other again, your family owns half this city! They own my work, and-and my apartment building! If anyone knew about this they’d ruin me, and-and I can’t afford to move-”

“Nobody will know but us and a select few people, and everyone will sign a nondisclosure agreement.”

“Then-then your family will actually think I’m the kind of heartless monster who rejects a proposal around the holidays! They’ll- god, I don’t have a lawyer-”

“There’s a contract in there that states I will undo anything my parents will attempt to do in terms of legal or financial action against you for ‘breaking my heart’. And, quite frankly, they will not have a case in the first place. I’ve already signed everything. We may have a lot of property and stake over this city, but I mean it when I say that after that clock strikes twelve on Boxing Day you’ll never hear from any of us again.” 

“You realize this is a fucking crazy thing to ask of me, right? Like, this… this is weird,” Janis insists. 

“I am aware this is rather unconventional, yes,” Cady nods. “But I’ve covered every possible eventuality and you’re totally protected legally and financially speaking.” 

“That’s not what I mean,” Janis says. “Just… you want me, a complete stranger, to spend the holidays with you, pretend we’ve been dating for years, and then reject a proposal?!”

“That was the hope, yes.”

“Why would you ever think I’d agree to this?”

“Because I’m prepared to pay you one hundred thousand dollars for it,” Cady says. Janis balks at her.

“A hundred-”

“Thousand dollars, yes,” Cady says like it’s entirely obvious. “And there’s a clause in your contract that states you’re allowed to leave for whatever reason should you so choose between the date you sign it and the date of our scheduled breakup. And as long as you help me come up with an excuse and make it believable, you still receive full pay. And if you don’t, I’ll give you fifty thousand anyway.” 

“So… if I… agree to this,” Janis says. “I basically get a hundred thousand dollars guaranteed, and I just…”

“Pretend to love me for three weeks.”

“I…” Janis stutters. “Jesus. You know what? Yeah, okay.” 

Cady hands over a pen. “Excellent. I will need you to sign the NDA before you exit the vehicle just to guarantee nobody else finds out we had this little conversation, but the rest can be handled whenever is convenient for you. I’ve given you the number and address of my lawyers’ office, you can contact them if you have any questions and drop all the documents off there when you’ve signed them.” 

Janis quickly skims the NDA, and it sounds reasonable enough. Almost not daring to believe it, she signs on the dotted line and passes the page and pen back to Cady. 

Almost like she planned it, they come to a stop right outside the coffee shop practically the second the paper touches Cady’s hand. 

“Pleasure doing business with you,” Cady says, giving another half-smile and shaking her hand. 

“Yeah, uh… you too,” Janis says, blinking in confusion as she accepts the handshake. Her jaw drops when Cady passes over a massive black binder as well. 

“Here’s all the information you should need in the coming weeks. Thank you again.”

“Anytime,” Janis says. Before she knows it, she’s blinking at a dust cloud down the road. 

What the Reese’s peanut butter fuck have I just gotten myself into?

—————

“Janis, hon?” Damian asks partway through his walk home from work. 

“Hm?” Janis hums softly.

“Why are you following me home?” 

“I need you right now,” Janis mumbles. 

“Mmhmm. And what’s with the binder?” Damian questions, walking a bit slower to let her catch up. 

“Why I need you right now,” Janis explains. Damian nods solemnly and lets her continue to slowly trail after him. 

Janis enters his apartment when he unlocks the door, leaving the binder and the folder on his coffee table and face planting into his couch. 

“So what’s-”

“Don’t look in the book!” Janis says, rearing upright when she hears him approach it. 

“Why not?” Damian yelps, scrambling away like the binder is apt to explode at any moment.

“Because I think that’s a felony,” Janis sighs. 

“…Say what?” 

“Sit,” Janis says. Damian plops onto his rug like a kindergartener waiting for story time. “Do you have any duct tape?” 

“Um… I think I have some tie dye patterned tape left from pride,” Damian says. “Why?”

“So I can stop you screaming,” Janis sighs. “Just promise you won’t?”

“You know damn well I can’t promise that, Janis,” Damian says. Janis sighs and nods. 

“So. Did you, by chance, um… happen to see what happened this morning?” she begins. 

“Um… no, there was a… young… gentleman in the shop I was, um… quite… focused- let’s just say no, shall we? What happened?” Damian says. Janis raises an eyebrow. 

“A gentleman?” 

“We’re talking about you at the moment, let it out, doll,” Damian says immediately. 

“Fine. But you’ll tell me if he was actually cute later. Anyway,” Janis sighs. “So. Let me set the scene.” 

Damian nods eagerly, leaning forward and resting his chin in his hands.

“I’m walking into work, cursing the world like normal, yadda yadda. Then, a guy behind me goes, ‘Ms. Sarkisian?’ and I turn, and it’s this, like… dude you’d see in, like, a movie. Full suit with the little…”

“Pocket square?”

“Sure,” Janis nods. “And the stupid little hat and white gloves and he’s all, ‘Get in the car please’ and I’m like, ‘I have no idea who you are or how you know my name, I’m sure as shit not getting in your car, Mr. Gloves’.”

“Obviously,” Damian nods. “Wait, how did he know your name?”

“Just wait. So I say no and turn to keep going and then someone else says my name and I’m starting to wonder how many people on the sidewalk know my name,” Janis says. “But this one is a woman, so I, er… checked.”

“Checked, eh?” 

“Checked,” Janis confirms with a glare. “And… it’s fucking her.”

“Her?”

“Cady Heron,” Janis says. Damian’s jaw drops. “And she seemed… less mad than yesterday, so I figured I’d take the chance to apologize for the whole… nutcase… sidewalk incident. So I got in probably against my better judgement and before I can even say sorry she’s… like, making a business proposal at me.” 

“A business proposal?” Damian asks. 

“A business proposal! And you know what she wants?!” Janis says. Damian shakes his head, looking at her imploringly. “I can’t tell you, because I signed a fucking NDA!” 

“You what?!” Damian says, leaping to his… knees. “Okay, so… legally binding document aside. What the fuck, Jan?” 

“I can trust you, right? Like, if I break this… legally binding document I appear to have signed you won’t tell people?” 

“No, obviously. We go to prison together or not at all, and orange is clearly not my color,” Damian says. Janis nods.

“You do have a winter complexion. Anyway,” Janis says, handing over the binder and folder. Damian opens it and peeks at the first few pages. “I have to pretend to be her girlfriend!” 

“You what?!“ 

“Calm down,” Janis says, like she hasn’t just dropped a major bombshell. “It would appear… that I’ll be spending Christmas with… the Herons. And pretending that I’ve been dating their daughter for three years.”

Damian tries to speak, but doesn’t seem to be able to form words. Janis doesn’t blame him. 

“I…” Damian says eventually. “Huh?”

“I know! What the hell was I thinking?”

“What were you thinking?!”

“She… is paying me a… not small amount of money,” Janis explains.

“How much?”

“Hundred grand,” Janis mumbles. 

“A hundred grand?!” Damian yells. 

“Shut up! You have neighbors!” 

“A hundred thousand dollars, Janis!” 

“Shut up! I know!” 

“Okay, so the why has been established,” Damian says with a disbelieving shake of his head. “Did she tell you how the fuck she thinks this is going down?”

“No, she just gave me the binder and said it had everything I need to know. I’m supposed to sign everything in the folder and drop it off with her lawyers and then… study, I guess.” 

Damian opens the manila folder and starts flipping through the documents. He doesn’t actually read all that much, to leave Janis and Cady with some semblance of privacy. And because Janis may be right about it being a felony for him to lay eyes on them. 

“In the event of your early demise?!” he yelps when he sees the phrase on one document. 

“What?” Janis says. “It doesn’t say that!”

“It does!” Damian insists. He hands the document over, and, sure enough, this one details what should happen with the money should either of them die during the duration of the contract. 

“What the fuck?” Janis whispers. “I can split the money between my loved ones if I list their names and contact information for their lawyers or give it to a charity of my choice if I die. And if she dies then I have to give the copy I keep of this to her lawyer so I can still get the money.” 

“Where the hell is she taking you? The fucking moon? How are either of these things a possibility?!”

“I dunno. I really hope it’s a ‘just in case of the worst possible scenario’ thing. She did say she had prepared for every possible eventuality,” Janis says. 

“Is she pretty?” Damian asks quietly.

“What?”

“Cady. You saw her up close, is she pretty?”

“I… yeah, I guess,” Janis replies. “She’s not not pretty, but she was so… impersonal, I guess. It kinda put me off a little bit. It really did feel like some kind of business deal.” 

“Wow,” Damian says. Janis can tell he’s already lost in his own fantasies, probably already drafting a fanfiction about this whole deal in his mind. Janis takes the moment of quiet to give the binder a first skim over.

“Oh my god, she has five brothers?!” Janis yelps. 

“Huh? Oh, yeah, she’s the youngest. First girl, was a big deal when she was born,” Damian says. 

“They all have the same initials!” Janis says, frantically flipping back and forth between the pages. “How am I supposed to-”

“Wow, they look really similar,” Damian says, sitting next to her on the couch and peeking over her shoulder.

“Not helping!” Janis insists. “How am I meant to tell them apart?”

“Hope,” Damian says immediately. “Really hard.” 

“No, no, I can… I can do this,” Janis says. “Studying. It’s just like the SAT’s, right?”

“…Sure,” Damian nods. “Whatever makes you happy.”

“Oh, shut up!” 

—————

Janis is on a plane two weeks later. She settles further into her cushy seat in first class. It’s a long flight to Colorado, two whole hours, so she pulls out the binder to do a last minute crash course. 

Damian made flash cards, which helped more than Janis cares to admit. Janis thinks she has Cady’s entire family down to a t, but she knows there’s also a solid chance she’ll be so nervous she’ll forget everything she knows about her own family as soon as she lands. So she does some last minute studying just to be safe. 

She looks around suspiciously just to make sure nobody is peeking over her shoulder or anything. Nobody is supposed to know she knows Cady yet, and nobody is ever supposed to know that their relationship isn’t real. 

Luckily, she’s in a window seat, so she just leans in closer to the small pane of glass and flips to the first page. 

Cady’s oldest brother. Charles Jacob Heron The Fourth. Thirty-seven years old, loves… embroidered handkerchiefs, imported teas, and peanut butter. Interesting sounding guy. 

Next brother, Clifton Joseph. Thirty-six, likes boats, spas, and gambling. Janis is more than a little concerned by what that could mean.

Then, Clark James, thirty-two. Janis tries to remember his interests without checking the card. Fancy cars, skiing, and… 

She has to check for his third main interest. Scuba diving? Interesting. He certainly sounds more fun than the brothers Janis has read through so far. 

Cady’s next brother is Callum Jefferey. Thirty years old, already has three children, and enjoys… his wife and kids. And jet skiing. Huh. 

And last but not least is Chester Jeremiah. Closest in age to Cady at twenty-seven and seems to be her biggest competition. Competition in what, Janis can’t be sure, but… something. Chester likes fine art, the opera, and imported chocolates. Sounds like Damian’s kind of man. 

Janis intently studies their portraits, trying to find physical tells to keep them separate in her mind. They all look remarkably similar and Janis is not at all panicked. She has a full dossier on practically Cady’s whole family, (including the paternal grandmother she’s supposed to avoid at all costs) but she knows she’ll be spending the most time with Cady’s parents and brothers. 

“Clifton has… the ear,” she murmurs out loud to herself. “God, Charles, what are you about?!” 

Her seat neighbors are starting to look at her oddly, so she turns closer to the window and returns to her silent studying. 

All of the photos look like they were taken by the paparazzi. Maybe they were. How often does Cady actually see her family? 

She continues browsing, looking through the very detailed etiquette instructions. Shake hands, introduce yourself, shut the fuck up. Basically what it boils down to. 

Cady also gave her a list of ‘acceptable’ pet names and interactions. Baby, sweetheart, love, darling… Janis can put the pieces together well enough. Hugs are to be from the front or back only, side hugs look too platonic. Cheek kisses are acceptable, kisses on the lips will be discussed when they meet up in person. Holding hands is also acceptable, but only if their fingers are interlocked. Apparently, it’s also too platonic if they aren’t. 

Janis sighs and flips the book back shut. She frowns in confusion when the pages ripple and a little piece of paper is suddenly poking out the top. She hasn’t seen this before, so she grabs it to see what it is.

A letter. 

Janis,

Hi. It’s Cady. Nobody knows I’m adding this to your notes. So please don’t tell anyone, especially not the lawyers. If you’re a lawyer reading this, no you’re not. 

I just wanted to warn you. The paparazzi know someone is joining us for the holidays. They will be at the airport, and they will figure out which driver is ours. As soon as you get off the plane, people will be looking at you, and looking for you. 

Being in the public eye can be exhausting, especially if you’re not used to it. Just don’t answer any questions and try to ignore the cameras. I’d also advise you to stay away from the internet for the duration of your stay with me. The tabloids can and will be cruel, and having the internet at your fingertips is a blessing and a curse. Just trust me, and avoid them at all costs. 

Nobody knows your name yet, so the driver will have a sign with your name on it. Any other name is a fake and you should not get into their vehicle under any circumstances. 

If any of this ever gets to be too much for you to handle, please let me know. I’ll do whatever I can to help. 

Regards,

Cady Heron

Janis looks oddly at the letter once she finishes, and reads over it a few more times. It’s a bit strange, but either way, Janis decides to heed the letter’s warning. She tucks it back in between the pages and looks out the window she’s next to. 

The landscape is beautiful, she has to admit. They’re getting closer to Colorado, so most of it’s covered in snow. She almost can’t tell where the clouds ends and the snow begins. 

-

Before she knows it, the pilot is announcing their landing and she’s buckling her seatbelt. She watches the ground get closer and closer. She’s bracing, but she’s not sure what for. Landing has never been her favorite part of flights. 

But it goes as smoothly as a landing can. Janis grabs her carry-on and it only takes half an hour for everyone to get off the plane. 

She grabs her suitcase from the conveyor and heads out to the pickup area. My name. 

She walks past at least three cars bearing Cady’s name. She’s more than a bit concerned by how many people are earnestly trying to kidnap her. 

A few other names go by, and then she spies hers. It looks to be the same driver Cady had when she… borrowed Janis that morning last month. 

“Ms. Sarkisian,” he says when he sees her. 

“Yeah. Hello,” Janis says. “Nice to see you again.”

The man blinks in shock, seemingly amazed that she remembered him. “You as well, ma’am. Miss Heron is expecting you presently.”

Everyone around them starts murmuring at the mention of the H-word. The driver tenses, realizing he’s made a grave error. Cameras begin flashing around them. Janis looks around to see them, tilting her head as people start clamoring for her to look every which way and calling out questions one after another after another, so quickly she can’t pick the words apart. 

The driver beckons her into the car. Janis is so overwhelmed that she obeys without a word, desperately wanting out of the situation. Her bag is unceremoniously shoved in the trunk, and Janis is glad she didn’t pack anything fragile. She plops into her own seat with a huff of relief as the driver gets them going. Wherever they’re headed. 

“Ah, Janis, fantastic,” a voice says suddenly from behind her.

“Jesus fuck!” Janis yelps. 

“My apologies, I didn’t mean to frighten you. I trust your flight went okay?” Cady says as she clambers her way next to her from the very back seat. 

“I- yeah, it was fine,” Janis says. “Were you back there the whole time?”

“Oh, yes, of course. I absolutely had to accompany you,” Cady says. “People would talk if we didn’t arrive together. Tinted windows and blankets truly are wonders, aren’t they?”

“Uh… sure,” Janis says. “What-”

“If the paparazzi had seen me you’d never have made it into the car,” Cady says. “But I wanted to be here.”

“Thanks?” Janis says.

“That won’t do,” Cady pleads. “You can’t talk to me as if I’m an alien, nobody will believe us then.” 

“I’m sorry,” Janis says. “This is all just so… weird for me, still. I don’t wanna say anything wrong.”

“We can deal with you saying the wrong thing, it’ll be better than you not saying anything at all,” Cady says. “I swear you won’t offend me or anything. You can feel free to speak your mind.”

“Uh… okay,” Janis says. Cady glares at her. “Sorry, I’m sorry! It’s a lot of pressure!”

“If this is going to be too much for you please tell me now,” Cady says. 

“No, I can… it’ll just take me a second to adjust to all this, y’know? This is already… a whole new world to me. I’m a fish out of water, I gotta figure out how to breathe.” 

“Well, I’d suggest you figure it out quickly. We don’t have a very long drive,” Cady says. “It really shouldn’t be much different from what you’re used to.”

“I’d have to sell several of my internal organs to be able to afford this car.”

Cady purses her lips and nods. “Point taken.”

“I’ll be fine by the time we get there, I just… all I knew about you before this was what my friend Damian told me from reading about you in the magazines and stuff. It’s gonna take me a while to stop seeing you as a celebrity, and everything.” 

“I understand,” Cady nods. “Um…”

“You don’t have to tell me anything embarrassing to try to speed up the process,” Janis comforts.

“Oh, good,” Cady sighs. Janis chuckles. 

“So, the binder thing said you had some… rules you wanted to go over in person?” she prompts. 

“Oh! Yes, thank you,” Cady says. “It is important that this is all believable, but I don’t want to force you into anything you’re uncomfortable with. I felt it would be best to discuss what you’re comfortable with in terms of physical and emotional affection in person rather than just declaring how I’d like it to be.” 

“Oh. Thanks,” Janis says. “I mean, I’ll do basically anything for this amount of money.”

“So… if I pinned you against a wall in front of a crowd of society people and started making out with you, you’d be alright with that?” Cady says. 

“Uh- is… is that likely to happen?” Janis squeaks. 

“I mean, I’d probably pin you to a more secluded wall, but there’s always a chance that may come up and people will see,” Cady says. 

Janis ponders this. Cady prepared for every eventuality before even meeting Janis, she supposes there’s a few Janis herself should prepare for as well. “That makes sense, I guess. Maybe, like… we could have a signal, or something. Just so either of us can have a bit of warning before anything, er… intense? But just, like, regular kisses and things I think I’ll be alright being surprised with.” 

“A signal may be a good idea,” Cady hums thoughtfully. “How about this? One signal for… erm… naughty things. And one if either of us needs to be removed from public view or discuss something privately with the other?”

“Okay,” Janis nods. “What do you think they should be? I don’t really know what would be a good thing to do. What would be obvious, and everything.” 

“Um… maybe a wink, for… you know? If we do it right, that won’t be particularly noticeable. Do you have any nervous habits? We should avoid those.”

“Um… I guess I wring my hands a lot? And I move my lips, but I don’t think I have anything else,” Janis says. “I’ve never really had to pay much attention to stuff like that before, though, so I’m not sure.”

“I tap my fingers, so we mustn’t do anything with that,” Cady hums, crossing her arms and tightening her jaw in thought. 

“We both have pierced ears,” Janis says. “If we need to talk we could adjust our earrings. Or tug on an ear, or something.”

“Yes, that’s brilliant!” Cady says, eyes ablaze with delight. “Alright, that’s handled. Now kiss me.”

“What?” Janis yelps.

“People will be able to tell if we kiss for the first time in front of them. Even my parents,” Cady says. “We should get the first out of the way now to get any awkwardness about it out of our systems.” 

“Oh. Yeah, uh… okay,” Janis says. “Do you wanna… or should I…?” 

“Uhm… do you… want?” 

“I’m fine either way,” Janis mumbles awkwardly. 

“Oh, to hell with it,” Cady breathes. Janis’ eyes widen briefly as she suddenly winds her arms around Janis’ shoulders and smashes their lips together. Janis squeaks softly upon first contact, but tries to reciprocate. She needs practice, and all. 

It’s not a bad kiss, either. Cady’s very clearly inexperienced, which makes sense. She probably hasn’t had a huge amount of opportunities to make out with people in her lifetime, being a billionaire and all. Janis pointedly does not let her bring tongue into their first kiss, and Cady seems to calm down slightly after that. 

Eventually, they fade into a sort of rhythm. Push and pull. Cady starts following Janis’ lead. Janis reads Cady’s responses and adjusts accordingly. 

Janis almost regrets having to breathe when they’re forced to pull apart.

“Okay, yeah, um… that’ll… that’ll work,” Cady says, strangely flushed.

“Good,” Janis squeaks. 

Cady clears her throat and looks out the window, running her hands through her red curls to smooth them down and adjusting her pantsuit back to where it’s meant to be. “We’ll be there in a few minutes, do you have anything else you wish to know or discuss?” 

“Um…” Janis hums pensively. The book covered almost everything. “Do people know that I’m… uh…”

“They’re expecting a woman, if that’s what you’re trying to say,” Cady says. Janis nods. “I came out in high school, so everyone’s known I’m queer for years. And I told my family that I’d be bringing my girlfriend for the holidays this year, so they’re expecting you. I was hoping people would focus on that instead of the fact you’re poor.”

“Thanks,” Janis says, grumbling internally. She’s not poor. She’s just… admit it, you’re broke. “Do they not know I’m… not rich?”

“That they don’t know about,” Cady says. “I’d suggest you start learning to tune people out. My parents are going to judge us quite harshly, and my mother will probably say her judgements right to your face.”

“Eh, I’ve heard all the judgements before, it’ll be nothing new,” Janis shrugs. “People always have stuff to say about my makeup and clothes and tattoos and stuff.” 

“I’d still brace yourself. Things sting in a different way coming from my mother,” Cady sighs. Janis frowns as Cady seems to start bracing herself too. 

“Are you okay?”

“Oh, yes, I’m fine,” Cady blatantly lies. She’s good. Janis almost can’t tell, but there’s an even stronger tension in her shoulders and her jaw is clenched even tighter than normal. “Thank you.” 

“Mmhmm,” Janis hums. 

They’re silent for the rest of the drive, looking out their respective windows at the landscape going by. Janis thinks they must be here when they pass through an ornate gate, complete with a person in a little box who comes out to let them in. 

But they keep going. And going, and going, and going. The road is thin and winding, but long as anything. Uphill, downhill. There’s a bridge at one point over what looks to be a very deep crevasse. Fun. 

Eventually, they come to a stop. Janis jumps a bit, having zoned out for most of the drive up, and undoes her seatbelt. The driver opens the door for her, and she climbs out of the car. 

“Holy shit,” Janis whispers when she sees the place. It’s absolutely huge. It could easily house a hundred people or more. “This place looks like a hotel.”

“Oh, it is,” Cady says, coming up next to her. “My family owns several. We stay at a different one every year for the holidays. I had to talk them out of the one in Switzerland this year.” 

“Jesus,” Janis says softly. “It’s beautiful.”

“Just wait until you see the inside,” Cady grins. “Ready?”

Janis looks between Cady’s small smile and her outstretched hand. She takes it with a nod. “Ready as I’ll ever be.” 

Cady heads up to the front door; about twice as tall as Janis and roughly eight times as wide. She wonders if the doorbell Cady rings is made of real gold or just plated. 

A maid opens the door after a few seconds. “Hello, Miss Heron.”

“Hi, um…” 

“Claire, miss,” the maid replies.

“Hi, Claire,” Cady says. 

“Please come in. I’ll let your parents know you’ve arrived,” Claire says. She leaves them in the extravagant foyer. Janis turns around to look at everything. 

Two sets of marble staircases lead upwards against either wall of the very large room. The ceilings are easily thirty feet high, met by elegant ivory walls and decorated with gold and diamond chandeliers. The rug for them to leave their dirty outdoor shoes on is a deep, rich red, covering a pristine floor tiled in yet more marble. 

It’s been precisely decorated, too. Garlands and white lights are wrapped around the railings to each staircase, and elegant silver snowflakes hang from the chandeliers. There’s a few family photos on the walls. If this is actually a hotel, Janis has a hard time believing they’re there all year round. They must’ve been brought in especially for the family’s stay. 

“Holy shit,” Janis whispers again. She jumps as a butler suddenly comes up.

“Madam Heron, a pleasure to see you again. May I take your coats?” 

“Yes, thank you… um…”

“Simon, ma’am,” the butler says politely.

“Thank you, Simon,” Cady says. She hands him their coats and waves him off with a hand. He shuts the front door behind them and goes off to hang them somewhere Janis can’t see. 

Claire makes a return then. “If you’ll follow me, Miss Heron, and your guest. Your parents are expecting you in the parlor.” 

Cady takes Janis’ hand again as they follow the maid through the winding hallways of the mansion. Eventually they make it to the back side, and Janis has to hold back a gasp. 

A majority of the lower floor of this half of the house is one large room, clearly used to hold dances or parties or other fancy events. The back wall is almost entirely glass; practically floor to ceiling. Janis looks through it to see the mountains a ways in the distance and the lake much closer. It’s all very beautiful covered in snow and ice. 

They keep walking until they reach an only slightly smaller room. Janis wonders if this is the rich people’s version of a living room or family room. 

Claire opens the doors and leaves them with a polite bow. Cady sighs softly and squeezes Janis’ hand, seemingly without realizing.

“Hello, father, hello, mother,” she says. Two figures who were chatting animatedly but quietly in the corner suddenly stop and look in their direction.

“Cady! So good to see you, dear, how was your flight?” the woman says. Cady’s mother. 

“It was fine, thank you Mother,” Cady replies, tone perfectly even. Janis doesn’t like this Cady. She sounds almost robotic, speaking that way, and she’s certainly tense enough to be. “How are the preparations for the party coming?”

“As they always do,” her mother says. 

“Hello, daughter,” Cady’s father says, pulling Cady into the stiffest hug Janis has ever been privy to witness. “How has your work been going?”

“I spoke of it to you on the phone yesterday, Father,” Cady says. “The status hasn’t changed since then.” 

“Oh, yes, you did, didn’t you? Well, it matters not,” her father replies. Cady bristles at that. Janis squeezes her hand gently, not knowing what else to do. Cady’s father looks at her, suddenly, and Janis rapidly understands why Cady is so tense. God, that’s scary. “May we help you?” 

“Um…”

“Mother, Father,” Cady says before Janis is forced to say anything.

“This is Janis Sarkisian. My girlfriend.” 

Absolute silence. Janis thinks she could hear someone drop a pin on the other end of the house. Cady’s parents scan her like something out of The Incredibles, scrutinizing every detail from head to toe. Janis tried to pick a nice outfit to wear on the flight. Dark jeans without holes, her classiest boots, and a soft cream colored sweater. The sweater is Damian’s, which they seem to take issue with. Among other things.

“Hello, Janet,” Cady’s mother says after several minutes of silent staring. “Cady, might we speak with you for a moment?”

“Yes, Mother,” Cady says. Nobody moves. 

“Alone, dear?”

“Oh. Yes,” Cady says. She lets go of Janis’ hand and follows her parents to the far corner of the room. Janis turns around to look at everything in this room. More family portraits on the walls. 

They aren’t smiling in any of them. Except one. Five young boys in matching dapper suits with red ties sit in a perfect row side by side, posture perfect even in the youngest who’s clearly no older than four. 

But in the very middle sits a tiny, chubby baby; with a wide toothless smile, precious freckles on her chubby cheeks, and fiery red hair to compliment her elegant green dress. Cady. 

Janis can overhear bits and pieces of the conversation Cady’s in the middle of with her parents. She looks over without actually turning around, just out of the corner of her eye. Cady is standing a good six feet away from her parents and anxiously tapping her fingers against her arm as they’re folded protectively over her chest. 

The words “unacceptable” and “peasant” come up a few times in rapid succession from the mouth of Cady’s mother, paired with burning glares in Janis’ direction. “Heathen” and “dangerous” also come up a few times, along with a hissed, “she’ll frighten the children!” which is a first. Janis quietly delights in the unintentional compliment. 

Cady seems to be defending her; much more softly but with just as much intensity behind her words. Janis hears her spit, “You have no idea who she really is. Give her a chance.” 

Cady tugs gently on her ear then, looking to Janis out of the corner of her eye. It’s not quite the circumstance she thought they’d be using their signal in, but Janis can understand why she is. It won’t make Cady’s parents like her, but saving Cady is worth it. 

“Should I take our bags to our room?” Janis asks, coming up behind Cady and kissing her cheek. Sure enough, Cady’s parents both look quite miffed with her for interrupting their very important discussion. 

“Oh, don’t be silly, baby, we have people for that,” Cady replies, resting a warm hand against Janis’ cheek and kissing her jaw in return. Janis feels her heart flutter the slightest bit at the pet name. Stop it, this is fake.

“Oh, right,” Janis says. “I forgot. Not used to… actually being in your world.” 

“How quaint,” Cady’s father says curtly. “The two of you may go get settled in. Cady, we expect you to join us for dinner.”

“Yes, father,” Cady says quietly. She takes Janis’ hand again to lead her out of the room. “Come on.” 

“Are they always like that?” Janis whispers as Cady leads her to the… elevator?! 

“Yep,” Cady sighs. “Fronting as a caring family, frigid behind the scenes.” 

“Nice,” Janis says. “Is the rest of your family already here?”

“No,” Cady says, leaning against the elevator wall and crossing her arms over her chest. “I’m not sure of your background, or if you… come from a large family or anything. My parents can be overwhelming enough, and the house is a lot in and of itself. I wanted to be sure you’d have time to acclimate before throwing you into the den with my entire family.” 

“Oh. Thanks,” Janis says. Cady just nods and taps her fingers against her elbow.

“Here we are,” she says when the doors open with the fanciest ding Janis thinks she’s ever heard. “This way.”

Janis runs out after her, following Cady at her very brisk pace down the hall. 

“My brothers will start arriving at… I’m not sure, but some point next week with their families. I trust you checked the binder?” 

“Yeah, I did. Memorized as much of it as I could.”

“Really?” Cady asks, turning briefly to look at her over her shoulder. “I’m impressed. That was quite dense.”

“Yeah, I, er… did my best.” 

“Anything will be appreciated, I’m sure. Anyway. My brothers always spend at least a few days with us for the holidays, but we’ll be here by far the longest. So you have all the time you could want to enjoy the area. And my grandparents will probably arrive as close to Christmas day as possible. Beyond that, it’s just going to be us and my parents for quite a while.”

“Sounds nice,” Janis says. “And when are we expected to be, like, in public together?” 

“As soon as possible,” Cady sighs. “Here’s our room.”

“Holy shit,” Janis whispers. 

“Are you going to say that every time I show you something?”

“Yeah, probably.”

“Well, I’m glad I know that now,” Cady says with a faint chuckle. She heads over and falls backwards onto the bed. “We should try to do something public tomorrow, or the day after at the latest. The media’s probably already buzzing about you at the airport. We need to be seen together in person before too long.” 

“Where will we go?” Janis asks. Cady pulls herself back to a sitting position and folds her hands against her knees.

“Wherever you want,” she says with a small smile. 

——-

Janis is awake and presentable bright and early the next morning per Cady’s brief. To be fair, it’s ten in the morning, but that’s still early by Janis’ vacation standards. 

“Morning,” Cady says when Janis walks into the dining room in hopes of some breakfast. “You took a while.”

“I got lost,” Janis says sheepishly.

“Oh, I’m sorry,” Cady says frantically. “I should’ve waited with you, I didn’t even think of that.”

“No, no, it’s totally fine. One of the butlers saved me. Your second parlor is really nice, by the way.”

“Thank you,” Cady says, smiling at her oddly. “I’m sure you saw some of the photos, then?”

“I did,” Janis nods. “You’re the only redhead?” 

Cady nods, tugging subconsciously on her auburn curls. Cady’s parents, and all her brothers, have dark blonde hair. Cady’s brownish-red hair is a stark contrast, to say the least. 

“I am. My paternal grandmother was a redhead too,” Cady sighs. “I hated it when I was young. And I went blonde for a time in high school, if you can believe that.”

“Really?” Janis chuckles. “Why?”

“It was… just how it went,” Cady says quietly. Janis gets the sense she shouldn’t press this further. It’s clearly an uncomfortable memory for Cady. “Bleaching it did so much damage. I’ve only just gotten it grown out to an acceptable length.” 

“What’s an acceptable length?” Janis asks. 

“This, basically,” Cady says with a shrug. “According to my mother I look uncivilized if I have it too much longer and like a heathen if it’s any shorter.”

“Your mother seems really judgmental.” 

“It… comes from a place of love,” Cady replies. “She wants the best for me and the best of me.”

“Well, if her reaction yesterday was anything to go by, I’m clearly not that.” 

“And that’s exactly the point,” Cady says with a mischievous smile. Janis smiles back. 

It’s quiet for a bit. Neither of them quite know what to say to each other now. Janis stares at the empty place on the huge wooden table in front of her, as if staring hard enough will materialize some breakfast before her eyes. To be fair, it seems a likely possibility in this house. 

“So, um… no family breakfasts?” Janis says awkwardly.

“Oh, heavens, no,” Cady says. “Everyone’s much too busy for that. Dinners are a must, but beyond that we simply eat meals whenever we have the time to. Oh, speaking of which, what would you like? The chefs will prepare you anything you could want. And if we don’t have something, we’ll send someone to fetch it.”

“Anything?” Janis questions. 

“Anything,” Cady confirms. 

“So… if I wanted… scrambled eggs but made with eggs from Japan?” Janis asks.

“We’d send word to Japan,” Cady says with a nod. “Do… is that what you want?”

Janis almost says yes, just to see how that would work. In actuality, she says, “No, no, I was just curious. Um… normal… American scrambled eggs would be fine, though.” 

“American scrambled eggs it is,” Cady says. “Anything else?” 

“No, thanks. I’m not really a big eater in the mornings,” Janis says. “Wait, is it… should I just eat what you had? I don’t want the cooks to have to make something special for me.”

“Oh, don’t be silly!” Cady says. “It’s what they’re paid to do. And I didn’t eat breakfast, anyway.”

“You didn’t?”

“I seldom do, I get so distracted,” Cady sighs. “Eggs do sound quite nice, though, I might have to request a portion of my own.” 

“How do they know what to make?” Janis asks.

“I’ll just put an order in,” Cady says like it’s obvious. Janis frowns in confusion. “To the app?” 

“You have an app?” 

“Yes, of course,” Cady says. “My brother, Clark, is quite good with programming and computers and such. So he designed an app for the servants. My mother even uses it. Much more dignified and easy to manage than yelling across the mansion, or… I don’t know, using bells or whistles or something.”

“That’s cool. I kinda would’ve thought whistles would be more your mother’s speed,” Janis says. 

“Oh, they were for years. Have you ever seen The Sound of Music?” Cady says. 

“She did not,” Janis says, jaw dropping. She has seen that movie. Damian made her watch it before he recreated the entire thing in a one man show just for her. Janis stopped letting him have white wine after that. 

“She did! We all had signals,” Cady says with a quiet giggle. “Anyway. Do you have any food allergies? The kitchens will sanitize everything to ensure you get a safe meal.”

“Um… no, I’m just lactose intolerant. But I can handle milk in small doses, so… no need to sanitize just for me,” Janis says.

“Are you sure? It’s a lengthy process, but there’s other kitchens on the premises. I wouldn’t want you to be uncomfortable,” Cady says. 

“I’m sure. As long as I don’t, like, eat a block of cheese or pint of ice cream I’ll be fine,” Janis says. 

“Alrighty then,” Cady says, pulling out her phone and entering the order. “Two scrambled eggs with no dairy. Anything to drink?” 

“Water is fine, thank you,” Janis says softly. She’s not in a restaurant, but it’s too similar for her to feel comfortable ordering anything but water. 

“And two waters. Coming right up,” Cady says. 

“That’s really cool,” Janis says, peeking at Cady’s screen. “Your brother designed this himself?”

“Yep. Clark’s never been one to accept much in the way of help with his work. He doesn’t care for our father’s business, but he’s done wonderfully with his own freelancing,” Cady says, clearly very proud of her big brother. “He designed these for use when the hotels are actually in service as hotels, but they’re still quite useful for our stays. All I have to do is say what room in the house I’d like a dish or item brought to and then wait.” 

“Sounds handy,” Janis says. Cady nods. 

“It is, quite. Anyway, it’ll be… er, about ten minutes,” she says. Janis nods. Cady nods back, and they’re back to silence. 

-

Breakfast is more than a bit awkward. Janis compliments the food, Cady smiles. Beyond that, they say nothing. 

“Oh, hey, um…” Janis says as she takes her last bite. Cady looks up from her phone expectantly. Janis drops her voice to a whisper, just to be safe. “How many people know about this?” 

“Oh,” Cady says. “You and I. My drivers, my security guards, and my lawyers.”

“That’s it?”

“That’s it. It would be unbelievable if many more people than that had to keep our secret. But they’ll be the people closest to us, so I figured that would make things easier on us. Less… paranoia, I suppose.” 

“Makes sense. Um, I’m ready to go. If you are,” Janis says. 

“Are you sure?” Cady says. “Forgive me for saying so, but I’m not absolutely convinced you’re aware what you’ll be getting into once we leave the property.” 

“I know I’ll have to watch everything I say and everything I do and that I should expect at least ten sets of eyes on me at all times,” Janis says, quoting from the binder almost word for word. “And I know I’m expected to act like I’m in love with you but not too much so it’s still realistic.”

“Okay, I seem to have underestimated you,” Cady chuckles. “You really did memorize it?”

“As much as I could,” Janis nods back with a smirk. 

“Nicely done,” Cady says softly. “Then I suppose we should go.”

“My lady,” Janis says sarcastically, offering Cady one of her arms to hold onto.

“Oh, don’t you start. And I should be leading you, Miss Got Lost Half an Hour Ago.”

“Fair enough.” 

—————-

“So have you given any thought as to where you’d like to go?” Cady asks as they watch the landscape shift from isolated mansion to populated suburb to cute little downtown area. 

“Not really. I don’t really know what’s around,” Janis says. “But… it would be fun to go somewhere you’ve never been before.”

“That impish look scares me,” Cady says. 

“Nowhere dangerous. But you don’t seem like you’ve been much of anywhere around this place, quite frankly.”

“I haven’t,” Cady acknowledges. “Shall we just drive around until we find something?” 

“That’ll work,” Janis nods. 

They both settle in and look out their respective windows, on a hunt for an acceptable Christmassy date destination. Cady’s driver takes them through the winding back roads of the neighborhoods. 

“Oh,” Cady gasps suddenly. “What is that?”

“A Christmas market?” Janis says, leaning over to look out Cady’s window.

“How sweet,” Cady says. “It’s beautiful.” 

“It is,” Janis agrees. “Should we go there?”

“I suppose it’s as good a place as any,” Cady says. “Lots of people.” 

“Yeah,” Janis acknowledges around a lump in her throat. She did know in theory what she was getting into, but the reality of being seen in public with Cady is setting in now. There are a lot of people at the market. Couples, families, people running various booths, single people doing some Christmas shopping at the quaint little stalls. All of it makes for quite a crowd that has Janis shaking in her snow boots. 

She has no more time to prepare as Cady climbs out of the car and starts slowly walking towards the market. She pauses after about three feet and turns to look at Janis. 

“Are you alright?” 

“Mmhmm,” Janis hums, nodding frantically. “Yeah, I-I’m good.”

Cady tenderly picks a bit of lint off Janis’ shoulder before she takes and squeezes her hand. “You’ll be fine, I promise. It’s overwhelming the first few times, but after a while you hardly notice it.”

“I’m more worried about what the media is gonna have to say about me,” Janis says. “They’ll probably think I’m corrupting you or something.” 

“Some probably will,” Cady agrees bluntly. “But… you know what is true and what isn’t. As long as you believe that, that’s all that ever truly matters.” 

“That’s deep,” Janis says, trying to lighten the mood. 

“These people do not actually matter in the slightest, I promise you,” Cady says, slowly continuing their walk over. “You’ll be but a passing trend.” 

“That does help,” Janis says. 

“Just try to enjoy yourself,” Cady says. “This is just a normal date.”

“Date,” Janis squeaks. “Right.” 

Eventually, they’re standing smack in the middle of the center. There’s loads of shopping booths selling all sorts of holiday-related trinkets and food and other goodies to the right, a Santa for the kids to meet straight ahead, and even a few activities like ice skating and an ice slide to the left. 

“That tree is huge,” Janis says in awe.

“It is,” Cady says. “It could rival the ones my mother has brought in every year. It’s beautiful.” 

They stand and admire the very large Christmas tree for a few moments longer before they start walking over to see what the booths have for sale. 

“Oh, these little Santas are darling,” Cady says when they walk past one selling little china figurines. “My mother collects Santa figures.”

“Really?” Janis chuckles. 

“Mmhmm. She has hundreds, from everywhere,” Cady says, picking up one with a blue coat covered in snow. “Do you make these?”

“Uh… y-yeah,” the stall attendant says, blinking at Cady in awe. “Um- my-my grandmother and I do. Spend the year making them to sell here.”

“They’re so cheap!” Cady says. “You should charge more for your handiwork!” 

“I-I… we… we only charge what we need to turn a profit, ma’am,” the teenage boy says. 

“Well, that’s no way to run a business,” Cady scoffs. “What are your markups-”

“We’ll take this one, please,” Janis interrupts before Cady can interrogate the poor kid about his entire business practice. He nods frantically and carefully wraps it in bubble wrap so it won’t break. “Thank you. Merry Christmas.”

Cady protests as Janis drags her away from the booth. “Hey! I was just trying to-” 

“Cady, he clearly is not doing this for the money,” Janis says. “He’s doing it to get reactions like the one you had when you saw the figurine. To make people happy, and to do something with his grandmother to bring in a bit of extra money for his family. He doesn’t need you explaining how to turn it into a multi-million dollar Santa Claus making empire.” 

“But he really could take it so much further if he just-”

“Cady, listen, I respect you a lot,” Janis says. “But I also have the perspective of a normal person. They don’t want business talk, okay? They want you to say something nice about what they sell and buy something, maybe chat for a bit, and move on.” 

“Was I rude?” Cady asks softly. 

“…Yeah, a little,” Janis says. “Your heart is in the right place, but… give the business stuff a rest for Christmas, okay?” 

Cady is quiet, but she nods and squeezes her hand. Janis squeezes her back. 

“You okay?”

“Yes,” Cady says immediately, though she’s still looking pointedly at her boots trudging through the thin layer of snow on the brick path. “When you find somewhere natural to, kiss me.” 

“What?” Janis laughs. 

“Don’t look, but someone to our left and a bit ahead is filming,” Cady says. Janis dares to sneak a peak, and sure enough, some passerby has her phone out, shamelessly recording them in broad daylight. 

“Jesus,” Janis tuts. 

Somewhere natural. Conveniently, one of the strands of lights they pass beneath has mistletoe dangling from it. Janis pretends she’s admiring the snow fluttering down and points to the mistletoe. 

Cady smiles and stops in her tracks, grinning up at the plant as she wraps her arms around Janis’ waist and stands on her tippy toes. Janis smiles back and gently cups Cady’s neck in her hands before pulling her into a soft kiss. 

Neither of them stop smiling even when their lips meet. Janis picks Cady up and spins her around, making Cady squeal with a laugh. “Jay!”

“Jay, eh?” Janis whispers, kissing her again. She leans in to whisper in Cady’s ear. “Should I act like I don’t want to be doing this so it makes more sense when we break up?” 

Cady smiles like she’s just whispered something sweet into her ear and leans in to whisper to Janis. “No, we’ll just say you weren’t ready for the commitment.” 

“Oh, great,” Janis chuckles as Cady kisses her cheek. “Is this enough to appease the masses or should I start licking your ear or something?”

“Please don’t do that under any circumstances,” Cady giggles. “I think we’re good. Paps will start arriving seconds after she posts that video, though.”

“I think I’ll live,” Janis says. She kisses the tip of Cady’s nose for good measure, and Cady kisses her knuckles as they start walking again; looking pointedly at everything except the camera and trying to act like they never noticed it. “Can you always tell when you’re on camera?”

“Just about,” Cady says. “My security taught me tips to look out for, so now I can almost always pick out who in a crowd is either already or going to start taking photos or recording. It’s just something you come to expect after long enough.” 

“Sounds like it would get old pretty quick,” Janis says sadly.

“It does,” Cady agrees. She chuckles slightly, more a loud exhale than much else. “Every time I get dressed in the morning I have to expect billions of people around the world to see it.” 

“I’m clearly not used to that,” Janis says.

“No, you look great!” Cady says. “Professional but comfortable. It works for you.” 

“I think this is the first time I’ve seen you in anything except a suit,” Janis chuckles. 

“Hey, they always match and they always have the professionalism I should,” Cady says. “I like my suits.”

“I like them too,” Janis says. “It’s just nice to see you in something else.”

“I am much more comfortable,” Cady chuckles. “Pantsuits are itchier than you’d think.”

“I can imagine,” Janis replies. “They… er, suit you, though. So to speak.”

“Thank you,” Cady giggles. “God, this place is lovely. I can’t believe I’ve never seen it before.”

“It is really cute,” Janis says. “I’m not usually a fan of stuff like this, but this is really nice.”

“Not usually?” Cady asks. 

“I’m not really a huge Christmas person,” Janis shrugs. “Something like this probably would’ve made me nauseous in high school.” 

“Really?” Cady giggles. “What’s different about this one, then?” 

“…I’m not sure.” 

“The company?” Cady teases, knocking gently against her side. Janis turns to look at her with a smile. 

“Nah, I think this one just has a better smell.”

Cady gasps indignantly. “How rude!” 

“I’m teasing,” Janis chuckles. “Better get used to that.”

“Hmph.” 

“Oh, come on,” Janis pleads. “I know what’ll make you feel better.” 

“What are you- oh, what is that smell?” Cady says, all her anger fading as soon as she gets a whiff of warm cider and cookies. 

“Hi,” Janis greets. “Two ciders and… what kind of cookies do you like, Caddy?” 

“They all smell so nice,” Cady says. 

“Thank you, Miss Heron,” the woman behind the booth says. “It’s an honor to meet you.”

“Oh, please,” Cady says with a smile. “I’m just as honored to meet you, I’m sure.” 

“Much better,” Janis whispers in her ear. She chases it with a kiss on the cheek so it looks natural. “Have you ever had a snickerdoodle?” 

“I beg your pardon?” 

“It’s a kind of cookie, baby,” Janis chuckles. “Do you have samples?”

“Oh! Oh, um… for you, of course,” the woman says.

“Oh, no, we’ll pay for it,” Cady says immediately. 

“No, no,” she says. 

“We insist,” Cady says. 

“And I’m paying, I don’t mind,” Janis chuckles.

“What? No you aren’t,” Cady says. 

“Try me.” 

“I’m the billionaire here, honey.”

“And what are people going to say if you don’t let me pay for anything? They don’t know our history, they’ll just think I’m some random person you found on the sidewalk who’s after your money!” 

“You might as well be,” Cady says teasingly. 

“How long have y’all been together, if I may?” the woman asks as she hands Janis a snickerdoodle. 

“Going on three years,” Janis says with a smile. She takes the cookie and pinches off a chunk to give to Cady. 

“How sweet. Y’all are just darling,” the woman says. 

“Oh my god,” Cady says in awe. “This is delicious!”

“I told you,” Janis chuckles. “And thanks.” she says to the woman. “Two?”

Cady nods eagerly. “How much for the lot?” 

“Hm?” the woman replies squeakily. 

“My family would love these, how much would it be for all of them?” Cady insists. “And do you have a permanent shop somewhere? I’ll have to mention you to my father.” 

The woman looks to Janis in shock, seeming to check if Cady’s being serious. Janis has no idea, and shrugs. 

“Um… we sell the cookies for two dollars apiece, so… call it a hundred for… all of them?” the woman says hesitantly. 

Janis hands over ten to cover their ciders and cookies, and Cady forks over five hundred. 

“Oh, there’s too much-”

“Nonsense. Use the rest on your family if you’d like, or yourself. Maybe make some more of these. Did you say you have a shop?”

“Yes, I-I have a bakery with my daughter-in-law,” the woman replies. “On seventh street. Caroline’s Cookies.” 

“I’ll pass along my recommendations,” Cady says. The woman looks around, seeming quite flustered, before she just pulls the entire tray out of their warming bin and offers it to her. Cady motions one of her guards over. “Take this back to the car, please. And feel free to have one if you’d like, they’re quite delicious. Thank you, ma’am. Merry Christmas.”

“Um… Merry Christmas to you as well,” the woman says, waving in confusion as Cady and Janis pick up their more reasonably sized portions of cookie and drink and head off to continue browsing. 

“Caddy?” Cady asks as soon as they’re out of earshot of anybody. 

“Yeah. No offense, but your name is spelled weird,” Janis says.

“None taken,” Cady says. “My parents were very committed to us all having the same initials.” 

“I can tell,” Janis chuckles. “It’s cute, though. But, yeah. You’re Caddy now.”

“I like it,” Cady grins. Janis smiles back until Cady suddenly turns to her in a panic. “Oh, back there, that wasn’t rude as well?!”

“No, no,” Janis says soothingly. “Bit… odd, maybe, but not rude. If you’re gonna do anything to a small business owner, buying their entire stock of something is probably the best option.” 

“They’re so good,” Cady says around a mouthful of cookie. “Oh, dear, I know that’s rude. Excuse me.”

“Nah,” Janis chuckles. “Would almost be endearing if it wasn’t gross.” 

Cady laughs under her breath as she continues chewing, swallowing before she speaks this time. “Everything here is… amazing. And to think I never even knew it existed until today.” 

“Sometimes you just gotta stop and smell the Christmas trees,” Janis shrugs. “Lucky we found it.” 

“Lucky indeed,” Cady says. “And the Christmas trees smell wonderful.” 

“They do,” Janis agrees. “Kinda makes me want a real tree.”

“You have an artificial one, then?” Cady asks as they wind their way through the rows of Christmas trees for sale by a local tree farm. 

“Yeah. Damian and I decided a real one was too much effort for us. And it’s cheaper to just get one that’ll last a few years than blow a bunch of money on a real one that’ll just die in a month anyway.” 

“Damian?” Cady asks. Janis looks at her when she hears a slight panic in her tone. “You’re… in a relationship?!”

“No! No,” Janis says immediately. “God, no. He’s just my roommate. He’s too gay to function. And… obviously gay in the wrong direction.” 

“Oh,” Cady breathes. “God, I didn’t even think to check that.” 

“Well, now you know for next time,” Janis jokes. Cady glares at her. “And… for the record, there hasn’t been anyone.”

“Ever?”

Janis shakes her head. “I was always kind of off-beat in school, so I didn’t have many friends in the first place. And then I made the mistake of coming out when I was in eighth grade, and then I didn’t have any friends at all. So I never really had the opportunity. I had a couple flings in college, but nothing serious. And now I work too much to really have time.” 

“Oh,” Cady says. 

“What about you? If I may ask,” Janis asks softly. They’ve made sure to whisper any sensitive information, but she’s still paranoid about someone listening in. That woman filming them without a care in the world has really thrown her off her rhythm. 

“I’ve never really had much chance either,” Cady says. “Couple brief things here and there, and one girlfriend in high school. There’s more booths this way.”

Well, that’s just about the best non-answer Janis has ever gotten. She decides not to press any further and follows Cady along to look at some more little trinket stalls. 

“Do you collect anything?” Janis asks. “Like your mother?” 

“…Yes,” Cady says quietly, almost like she’s embarrassed. “I collect snow globes.” 

“That’s cute,” Janis says. Cady shrugs.

“Do you have any collections?” 

“Not… really,” Janis says. “Um… I collected state quarters in middle school, I still have my special map in my mom’s attic somewhere. Paintbrushes, I guess. I keep all of them even when I can’t use them anymore.” 

“You paint?” Cady asks softly, looking at her curiously. Janis nods and swings their interlocked hands between them slightly. 

“Yeah.” 

“Just yeah?”

“No,” Janis sighs. “I just… after I came out I was bullied, like, pretty severely. Everyone called me a space dyke because some kid asked me what I was one day and all I could think of was to say I was a space alien with four butts.”

“Clever.” 

“Yeah,” Janis chuckles. “Needless to say, it didn’t go over very well. I got pulled out of school after a while and put into art therapy. So… that’s where painting started for me.” 

Cady hums sadly. “Are you any good?” 

“I like to think so,” Janis says. “Not good enough to make anything off it, though.”

“So that’s why you work at the café?” Cady asks. Janis nods. “Hm.”

“Why were you there?” Janis asks. “When we… um… met.” 

“I’m currently working for my father,” Cady says. “All of us have. When we graduate from university, or… reach a certain age, in Clark’s case, our first job is working for him. It’s helpful to learn business strategies and how to manage things, as well as working skills in case we don’t launch our own billion-dollar enterprises someday. We do that for a year and then we’re left to our own devices.

“And he owns the café, among other businesses in the city. So he sent me along to check up on things and make sure everything was up to our standards.”

“Was it?”

“Well, there was a certain employee I mentioned among a few strong words,” Cady hums. “But I appear to have judged her too quickly.”

“She did the same,” Janis says softly. 

“Did she?” Cady asks. “Hm. We’re being followed, by the way.” 

“How do you-”

“Security gave me a signal, it’s not me being a mind reader. I can’t see backwards,” Cady giggles. “It’s nobody dangerous, this time, just some paparazzi.”

“This time?” 

“Oh, yeah. I only have security because I was kidnapped when I was seven,” Cady says like that’s perfectly normal. “We all do, now. My father’s had a few close calls with assassination attempts and such.” 

“You were kidnapped?!” 

“Only for a while. They actually treated me remarkably well,” Cady says. “I had more candy in those four hours than I’d had in my entire life previously, it was awesome. People are desperate, sometimes. Ransom is a good, quick way to earn money. They knew my father had a lot.” 

“So your father just paid them off?” Janis asks in shock. 

“Oh, heavens, no! No, of course not,” Cady chuckles. “He just called the secret service and they handled it quite quickly.”

“Like… the secret service the president gets?” 

“They were friends at the time, it was a personal favor.”

“You should write a book.”

“You should probably kiss me again,” Cady sighs. Janis kisses her mittened knuckles and looks around. 

“I have a better idea,” she says, running ahead to the sleigh rides being offered. Cady squeaks in surprise and starts running after her. “How much?”

“Up to you. All we ask is that you make a donation to our animal sanctuary if you think we do a good job,” the sleigh driver replies. “Helps us take good care of the horses and their buddies.” 

“And… and the horses are safe?” Cady asks shakily. 

“I can assure you they’re very well trained, miss. You’ll have a smooth ride,” he says. “This here is Butterscotch. She’s a little older, so she’ll give you a nice calm trip.” 

“Okay,” Cady says softly. 

“You wanna go?” Janis asks gently. Cady looks at her, and Janis can see genuine fear in her eyes. “I’ll be right there with you, it’ll be alright.” 

“I don’t like horses,” Cady mumbles.

“We don’t have to go,” Janis offers quietly. “If it makes you uncomfortable. But hundreds of people ride these every day and they’re perfectly fine.” 

“I want to,” Cady says, a bit bolder. Janis grins and kisses her cheek. 

“Good. Hop up,” she says. Cady squeals a bit as she suddenly hoists her up and into the sleigh. Janis hears camera shutters go off a ways away and hopes she doesn’t look too weird lifting Cady practically over her head. Cady pulls her into the sleigh after her and greets her with a sweet kiss as she tosses a blanket over their laps to keep warm. 

The driver sets Butterscotch off to a trot. Cady squeals in fright as they start moving, but she calms down as she gets used to it. 

“So… does it say anywhere in those contracts that we can’t get to know each other?” Janis asks after a while.

Cady looks at her oddly. “Surely you already know everything about me you’d want to.” 

“I don’t,” Janis replies. “Oh, hey. C’mere.” 

“What?” 

“Just in case,” Janis says. “You said the paparazzi are after us.” Cady still looks confused, but she does rest willingly against Janis’ shoulder. “And… now nobody but us can hear what we’re saying.” 

“Smart,” Cady says. She gently laces their fingers together and smiles down at their hands. “Now seriously, there can’t possibly be anything you don’t already know about me, I put everything…” her tone drops to almost a whisper even though nobody can hear them. “In the book.” 

“Yeah, exactly. I know book stuff. I know everything I could’ve found on the internet if I cared enough about billionaires to look you up. I know about your family, and your history, and your business, and what we were talking about earlier. But I don’t really know about you,” Janis says. “And I think if we’re gonna convince people for these three weeks, you should know a couple things about me. But I’m a lot less interesting.” 

Cady considers this before she nods gently. “Yeah, alright. Have you ever considered entering my field? You have quite a mind for business.” 

“Maybe on the surface,” Janis snorts. “I’m terrible at math, though. I think business has too many numbers for my tastes. And I thought you never wanted to see me again as soon as we’re done here.” 

“I suppose that’s fair,” Cady giggles. “Not business then. Do you actually make decent coffee?” 

“I do,” Janis nods. “Coffee, tea, hot chocolate. Basically the menu at the café, I can do pretty well.” 

“Uhhuh. And how much of that is the stock the company purchases?” 

“Your father has good taste for his companies. But it takes a skilled hand to be able to turn that into something people can actually drink,” Janis says.

“Really?” 

“No,” Janis laughs. “I push buttons on machines and it makes stuff happen.” 

“You liar, I was actually starting to believe you!” Cady chuckles back. 

“I thought that’s a big business thing, being a good liar?”

“True. You sneak,” Cady giggles. 

“I do make good stuff though. Have to make my own at home,” Janis says. 

“Hm. Interesting,” Cady hums. “Well, I suppose that was my turn. What do you want to know about me?”

Shit. What does Janis want to know? She wants to know about Cady, but… what about her? 

“Janis?” 

“Sorry, I’m thinking,” Janis says. “Um… what’s- uh… your… favorite shape?”

“My favorite shape?” Cady chuckles. “What is that gonna tell you about me?”

“You can tell a lot about a person by their favorite shape! Now come on, what is it?” 

“Circles are nice,” Cady says. “But I think… stars? I don’t know. I don’t think I’ve ever thought about it before.”

“Stars are pretty good,” Janis nods.

“So… what does that tell you about me?”

“That you… like… stars.” 

Cady rolls her eyes. “Brilliant.” 

“Well, look, it’s a lot of pressure! Not every day you get to talk to a billionaire one on one!” 

“Just pray you never become an interviewer,” Cady replies. “I will answer anything within reason. You have signed an NDA.” 

“Anything, huh?”

“Mmhmm. My turn, though,” Cady says. “What’s… something you’d never do no matter how much I offered to pay you?” 

“Skydive,” Janis says immediately. 

“Really? Not a thrill seeker, then?” Cady hums happily. “I did mean, like, between us, but that’s… good to know, I suppose.”

“Oh! Duh,” Janis says. “I thought you meant, like, in general.”

“No, no, that was a good answer!” Cady says, gently knocking against her. “What else?” 

“Hey, that’s two!”

“So you’ll get two, come on.” 

“Fine,” Janis huffs. “I won’t… like, do anything that would… hurt. Physically. Like, if you asked me to break my arm or something. Not doing that. And I won’t hurt you. And I wouldn’t… take some mystery drug that might start the apocalypse.”

“What?!” 

“I dunno what you billionaires get up to in your free time,” Janis says immediately.

“You think the apocalypse would start with a drug? And that I have it?”

“I don’t know, it could happen!” Janis defends. 

“You’re very strange,” Cady hums. 

“Says you.” 

“And rude.”

Janis just raises an eyebrow. Cady huffs and turns the other way, but she’s still firmly tucked against Janis’ side. “My turn?”

“If you must,” Cady grumbles crankily. 

“What makes you smile?” Janis asks softly. Cady tips her head up to look at her. 

“Smile?”

“Yeah,” Janis confirms. “I wanna know what kinds of things make you happy.” 

“Why?” 

“Because heaven forbid I care about you the slightest little bit over the next few weeks,” Janis teases. “I should at least know a couple things so I can do them. Make this seem realistic and everything.” 

“Oh.” Cady says softly. “Um…” 

Janis feels her heart pang the slightest bit as Cady genuinely has to think about her answer. The slight hurt only grows with every second that ticks by. 

“My nieces and nephews,” Cady says eventually. “Always make me smile. And… most of my brothers and sisters-in-law. And I watch videos of animals that are best friends when I get sad.” 

“Oh, yeah?” Janis chuckles. “Which one’s your favorite?”

“There’s a… cheetah and a golden retriever,” Cady mumbles sheepishly. “They grew up together.” 

“That’s cute,” Janis says softly. “Anything else?” 

“I like to eat. I usually smile then,” Cady says. “And I… I don’t know, beyond that.” 

“Well, we’ll just have to find some stuff, then.” 

“Yes, I suppose we will. My turn.”

“Hey, I get two questions!” 

“And you did. If you want to get technical, you got three,” Cady says. “You asked what makes me smile, what video was my favorite, and then if I had any other things.”

“Fine,” Janis pouts. “Ask away.” 

“Tell me about… erm… the friend of yours you mentioned earlier,” Cady says. 

“Damian?” 

“Yes, him,” Cady agrees in such a tone that Janis knows she immediately forgot his name. 

“Okay. I met him when I was in first grade,” Janis says. “I broke his nose.”

“You what?!” 

“He said girls couldn’t punch. I just proved him wrong,” Janis shrugs. “We were best friends after that. We grew up together. A couple other friends came and went for us, but he was always the one I could count on. When we got older we’d always be each other’s beards when we needed one and stuff. Our parents say we’re platonic soulmates.”

“And you’re both queer?” Cady asks gently.

“Yeah. I’m a lesbian and he’s the gayest man to ever walk the face of the Earth,” Janis chuckles. 

“Have you told him about this?” Cady asks. Janis tenses. Will Cady take legal action if she tells the truth? She did sign that nondisclosure agreement. But lying to Cady can’t be a good thing to do either. “It’s alright if you have. If you trust him I suppose I have to as well. And if need comes we can have him sign an NDA too.”

“He’s trustworthy. He does talk too much, but he knows not to tell anyone about this,” Janis says. “We tell each other everything, I had to. And he absolutely loves your family, by the way.” 

“He does?” Cady asks, looking up at her. 

“I think you’re more important to him than the Kardashians, and that’s saying a hell of a lot,” Janis says. Cady laughs. “He reads all the news stories and watches all your interviews and stuff. You’re definitely his favorite. You can do no wrong in his eyes.”

“Really?” Cady asks. “The news and interviews I’ve done don’t exactly portray me in a positive light.” 

“And he is beyond pissed about that,” Janis says. “Every time something new comes out that makes you look bad I’m subjected to him ranting about it while I try to do my job. He’s gone for an entire shift more than once.”

“Maybe I should have asked him to do this instead, then,” Cady says with a small smile. 

“He would’ve for your sake,” Janis snorts. “I told him I’d try to get your autograph for his Christmas present.”

“He sounds lovely,” Cady says. “Might need more than an autograph.” 

“He can be lovely when he wants to. Most of the time he’s just a pain in the ass.”

“Do you talk about all your friends so kindly?” Cady asks teasingly. 

“Yeah,” Janis chuckles. “It’s how I show affection.”

“Hm,” Cady hums. They both startle a bit when they suddenly come to a stop. They look up to see that they’ve finished their allotted loop around the downtown area already. “Oh, it’s over.” 

“See? I told you it’d be fine,” Janis says, loud enough for the driver to hear her now. “Come on, we should finish shopping and head home.” 

Janis climbs out of the sleigh first, and gently picks Cady out after her. She gives her a spin and kiss before she sets her gently on her feet. 

“Thank you,” Cady says to their driver.

“Not a problem, miss.”

“What is your goal for donations this year?” Cady asks, still making sure to stay well out of the horse’s reach. 

“We’re hoping to hit ten thousand over this season, that should get us through the next year,” he replies. “Any amount you can give is appreciated.” 

“Mm,” Cady hums pensively. “Let me make a call.” 

“Um… okay,” the driver shrugs. Janis watches as Cady steps out of earshot and pulls out her phone. She can just about make out the words ‘ten thousand’ and ‘yes, I’m serious’ from this distance. 

“Right,” Cady says as she hangs up and returns. “I obviously can’t give you that much money in person, but we can start with… oh, this,” she says, forking over another huge wad of money. “And someone from my lawyer’s office will be visiting your ranch in the coming days to make sure it’s all up to standards and give you the rest of the money, if that’s alright with you?” 

“The… the rest of the ten grand, miss?” 

“We’ll call it fifteen for luck, and in case the people here are more stingy than you’re accounting for,” Cady hums. “As long as you’ll use it to keep Butterscotch in the manner to which she’s accustomed.” 

“Most of it, absolutely,” the driver says, seeming a bit shaken by what he’s just heard. “A-are you serious, ma’am?”

“Why does everyone keep asking me that? Of course I am,” Cady sighs. “Anyway. Merry Christmas, thank you.”

“M-merry Christmas,” the driver replies, waving back at them as they head back towards the market hand in hand. 

“Are you allowed to drop this much money on random strangers?” Janis asks quietly. “This is all adding up really quick.”

“I’m a billionaire, Janis,” Cady chuckles. “What we’ve spent today is just a fraction of what I earn in a month. And to answer your question, I may do whatever I like with it once it crosses from my father’s hand to mine, thank you very much.” 

“Alrighty then,” Janis nods. 

They continue browsing the booths as they slowly start making their way back to the car. They each pick up a few things. Cady gets a small stack of books from a miniature bookstore and explains they’re all for one of her nieces. Janis picks up a few things she hopes, based on what little information the binder provided her, Cady’s family members will like. 

They dodge paparazzi as best as they can in the meantime, trying to make their conversation look more interesting than it actually is and adding in the occasional kiss or small cuddle. 

With a bottle of wintery artisan perfume for Janis’ mother, they decide to conclude their shopping for the day. 

The driver is waiting for them when they return to the car. He helps them deposit their bags of goodies into the trunk next to the cookies and opens the back door for them to climb in. 

“Well, that was satisfactory, I think,” Cady sighs as she pulls off her beanie inside the warm car. “Nicely done.” 

It’s almost odd, now, being on the other side of the large car from Cady after spending hours practically glued to her side. Or her lips. 

“Thanks,” she replies. “How often do we have to do that?” 

“Oh, not very,” Cady replies. “If we do it too often it’ll come across as fake. So… once a week at most, if that.”

“Great,” Janis sighs, slumping down in her seat. It took more out of her than she was expecting. 

“You can rest now, if you’d like. I’ll wake you up when we get back.” 

“Yes, please and thank you,” Janis hums contently, pulling off her mittens to rest over her eyes and settling in for a short cat nap. 

God, being rich is exhausting. 

—————

Janis calls Damian when they get back to the… hotel? House? Both. 

“You’re such a good actress!” Damian yells as soon as she puts the phone to her ear. She winces a bit at the loud noise directly against her eardrum. 

“What?”

“The pictures and stuff from the date you went on!” Damian says. “You guys really look like you’re in love with each other.” 

“Those are already out?” Janis asks.

“Yeah? When was the date?”

“We literally just got back,” Janis says in confusion. “I mean, it’s like a half hour drive and it took me another five minutes to get up to our room, but… like, literally just crossed the threshold.” 

“Seriously? Damn, that is quick,” Damian says. “You guys make a cute couple.” 

“Don’t get too attached,” Janis chuckles.

“Where is Cady now? Is she listening in? Are we being spied on?” 

“Not by her, but probably. I don’t think the security people trust me,” Janis says. “I’m half expecting them to give me a pat down every time I leave our room. Cady’s… working… somewhere, I dunno. She went off in another direction when we got back.”

“Weird,” Damian says.

“Nobody else is here, we don’t have to keep up appearances,” Janis replies. “So… did the pictures have, like, words? To accompany them?”

“Some,” Damian says casually.

“And am I being slandered? Dragged through the coals?” Janis asks. “I’m too scared to look for myself. You have to be my window to the outside world through all of this.” 

“I accept and I am deeply honored.” 

“You already talk like Cady does,” Janis snorts. 

“Wait, seriously?” Damian asks.

“Yeah, everyone in her family I’ve met so far talks like they’re stuck in a novel or something. Fancy words.” 

“Who have you met so far?” Damian asks. 

“Just her and her parents. Her brothers are supposed to come over the next couple weeks,” Janis says. 

“How are the ‘rents?” 

“Some of the tensest people I’ve ever seen,” Janis says. “They hate me.”

“Aren’t they supposed to?” Damian asks.

“Yeah, but not yet,” Janis replies. “What are they saying online?” 

“Um… gimme a sec,” Damian says. “Cady Heron in a relationship with… those bitches! You are not trailer trash!”

“They said that?” Janis replies, unable to hold back a laugh. “I mean, I guess I kind of am by comparison.” 

“Oh, someone on Twitter says you’re pretty,” Damian says. “Um… have you ever done crack?”

“What?!”

“Never mind,” Damian says. “Might be worth a try, though.”

“What the hell are you-”

“Definitely stay away from the internet for a while,” Damian interrupts. 

“Okay? What does that have anything to do with crack?” 

“Maybe just avoid both.”

“Noted,” Janis sighs. “Are they all that bad?”

“Most of them,” Damian says. “But hey, what do they know?” 

“You are always saying they don’t know anything,” Janis says. 

“What is she like?” Damian asks. Janis can practically see him lying on his stomach and kicking his feet back and forth like a teenage girl sharing the latest gossip. 

“She’s… she… uh…”

“Beyond words?”

“In some ways,” Janis says. “She’s just… uh… she… I-I don’t know. She’s much different than she sounded in all the news stories you read me.”

“I told you! I told you they’ve always been wrong about her, I knew it!” Damian cheers. 

“She’s… interesting. And she’s, like, surprisingly easy to make conversation with,” Janis continues. “And she seems… nice. I guess. She bought all of the snickerdoodles from a baker like it was totally normal.”

“It probably is for her,” Damian says. “Were they at least good cookies?”

“Oh, yeah,” Janis says. “Nothing on yours, but a close second.” 

“That is the correct answer,” Damian replies. “I miss you.” 

“I miss you too. It’s weird not being home,” Janis sighs. “I mean, this place is amazing, but it’s just… I dunno, not normal.” 

“It’s only one year,” Damian comforts. “And you know damn well we aren’t celebrating until you’re here.” 

“You guys are ridiculous,” Janis chuckles. “God, what does my mom have to say about all this?” 

“She doesn’t know yet,” Damian says. 

“Good.”

“She might not even find out unless one of us tells her, your mom’s never been one for social media or anything.” 

“That’s true,” Janis sighs.

“What did you tell your family?”

“That I’m spending Christmas with a girl and not to check the news for three business months.” 

“Smooooooth,” Damian replies. “You know Julie’s gonna find out.”

“I know,” Janis sighs. “I’ll think of some better way to explain this to them without getting them hounded by lawyers.”

“If today is anything to go by you’re gonna want to get on that quick.”

“It’s scary, honestly,” Janis says with an ironic chuckle. “Don’t they have to edit the pictures first?”

“Gossip waits for no man.” 

“Sadly true.” 

Janis looks up when there’s a faint knock on the door. Cady comes in behind it, but ducks back out when she sees Janis is on the phone. 

“Dame, I gotta go,” Janis says, motioning Cady back in when she peeks through a crack left in the door. “I’ll call you back later.”

“Is it her?”

“Yes,” Janis huffs with an affectionate eye roll. “Love you.”

“Tell her I say hi! And that I really admire her strength!” Damian says. “Oh, love you too. Bye.”

“Hi,” Janis sighs as she hangs up the phone and plops it into her lap. 

“Hello,” Cady greets. “Sorry for interrupting.” 

“It’s fine. Nothing important,” Janis shrugs. “Just Damian.”

“Your friend?” 

“Yeah. He says hi, by the way,” Janis chuckles. 

“How sweet. Hello back,” Cady says with a quiet giggle. 

“What’s up?”

“Bad news,” Cady sighs. “My parents want you to have dinner with us tonight.”

“Okay,” Janis says. “Is… is that it?”

“I was hoping I could save you a while longer, I did my best to get you out yesterday, but they’re absolutely insistent about tonight and-”

“Cady,” Janis chuckles. “It’s fine. Part of the deal, I’ll manage. How bad could it be?” 

—-

Janis quickly learns exactly how bad it can be. 

The first ten minutes or so pass in absolute silence, which would be nice if it didn’t feel like an omen of things to come. The only sounds are muffled (and very polite) chewing, forks hitting impossibly fancy plates, and Cady occasionally inhaling like she’s about to speak before she decides against it. 

At least the food is good. Really good. Janis is willing to bet something like this would cost her at least a hundred dollars in a restaurant. And she gets it for free every night for almost a month. 

She locks eyes with Cady across the table at one point. Cady looks back as she chews a mouthful of her salmon. Janis tries to surreptitiously shift her eyes to Cady’s parents, trying to ask if she should make conversation or something without speaking. Cady shakes her head slightly and gives a small nod in the direction of her mother. 

Janis dares to sneak a glance as she cuts off another bite of her own fish. Mrs. Heron’s eyes are firmly on her plate. Janis half expects to see it spontaneously combust under the intensity of her glare. 

Her fish isn’t faring much better. For a woman who puts such emphasis on manners and politeness, she’s absolutely mangled her poor dinner. Janis quickly learns why as she sees her sawing at the delicate fish with terrifying aggression. Aggression that Janis knows is entirely aimed at her. 

Janis jumps a bit and tries to play it off when Cady’s father suddenly clears his throat a bit and says, “So… um.”

“Janis, father,” Cady supplies quietly. 

“So, Janis, tell us about your family,” Mr. Heron continues. 

Janis freezes with her fork halfway to her mouth and politely rests it back on her plate. “Oh, um… it’s much less interesting than yours, sir. I have a little sister, she’s eighteen. Graduating high school in the spring. And then there’s my mom.”

“And your father?” Mrs. Heron asks in a tone Janis can only describe as snooty. 

“My biological father passed away when I was four,” Janis says softly. “And my stepfather is… erm, we don’t know exactly, but somewhere in Arizona. He left when I came out.” 

Mrs. Heron’s eye twitches slightly at the mere mention of a stepfather, especially an absent one. Mr. Heron seems to regret opening a conversation at all and quietly returns to his dinner. Janis looks at Cady apologetically, but she shrugs and mouths, “You tried.” 

“The salmon is amazing,” Janis says, giving another feeble attempt at… something. 

“Thank you,” Mr. Heron says when neither his wife or daughter respond. “We pride ourselves on our chefs.” 

“I see why.”

Everyone gives a small nod and continues eating. It feels almost like a scene in a movie before a car comes crashing through a wall or something else spectacularly dramatic. 

But an astounding amount of nothing happens, and the rest of the meal passes in silence. 

—-

“So. See what I mean now?” 

“Oh my god,” Janis groans as she crawls into the large bed next to her. “That felt like if I breathed wrong some nuclear missile was gonna go off or something. Tensest meal of my life.”

“You’ll want to get used to that,” Cady chuckles. 

“I’ll be able to do brain surgery after this trip. Face anything with steady hands.”

“This was actually a more pleasant dinner,” Cady says thoughtfully. “I’m honestly surprised my mother hasn’t torn into you yet.”

“Me too. I’m waiting for it every time I turn a corner,” Janis chuckles. 

“I’m sorry,” Cady says suddenly. “I don’t want you to be so… on edge.”

“Part of the job,” Janis replies. “I can handle whatever she says, I just don’t like the whole element of surprise.” 

“Are you sure? I knew I should’ve prepared you for them more-”

“Cady, it’s fine,” Janis says. “It’s three weeks. They might be taking years off my life in terms of my cardiac health every time we talk, but I’ll manage.”

“I’m very glad it’s you that bumped into me on that sidewalk.”

“Me too,” Janis says. “But you totally bumped into me.”

“I did not!” Cady scoffs.

“You did! You were off like a shot, you ran me over!” 

“Wouldn’t have been an issue if you weren’t standing in the way,” Cady huffs, crossing her arms over her chest as they both stare up at nothing in the darkness. 

“I was only in the way because I needed into the building you were catapulting yourself out of.”

“And you could’ve waited your turn!”

“The windows are tinted, I couldn’t see you until the door almost broke my nose!” Janis defends. 

“I did not almost break your nose.”

“You could’ve,” Janis pouts. “Or my ass.”

“Your ass is fine.”

“Thanks.”

“Hey!”

—————

The rest of that week passes relatively smoothly. Meals are always awkward, but Janis has close to free reign to explore the impossibly large property at her will. Damian gets lots of pictures of the mountains, and Janis takes a few extra to use as references for paintings later. 

The next Saturday, Janis gets to meet the first of Cady’s brothers. She and Cady are chatting in the parlor and munching on the (very few) leftover snickerdoodles from their date at the market. 

“Auntie Cady!” a voice calls. Janis watches as Cady smiles and turns around. She smiled with her eyes. Janis hasn’t seen that before. And god, does she want to see it again. 

“Who is this?” Cady asks, looking at a young boy and an even younger girl. 

“It’s me! It’s Lennox!” the boy says. 

“Mm,” Cady hums suspiciously. “I don’t think so. The Lenny I know is only about this tall.” She holds up a hand to demonstrate. “And he wasn’t missing any teeth!”

“I grew! And I lost my tooth, see? The tooth fairy brought me stock in Netflix!” 

“You grew?!” Cady asks like it’s the most shocking thing in the world. “Let me see. Same hair.” She ruffles it with a hand. “Same eyes. Same cute smile. Lenny?!” 

“Yeah!” Lennox says eagerly. Cady laughs and wraps him in a hug. 

“My favorite little guy, I missed you!” she says. “And if that’s Lenny, then… this must be Fifi!” 

The little girl shrieks happily as Cady picks her up and spins her around, her blonde braids whirling around behind her. 

“Hi,” Cady grins when they come to a stop, looking at the girl still in her arms.

“Hi, Auntie Cady,” the girl replies. “You gotta, um… you gotta… um… meet, um… Nomie.” 

“Oh, my god, I do,” Cady says. Janis watches in slight confusion as she kisses the little girl’s cheek and puts her back down. A woman approaches with a tiny baby in her arms. “Oh, she’s beautiful.” 

“Thank you,” the woman replies. “Naomi Charlotte.” 

“Hi, Naomi,” Cady murmurs, gently stroking the baby’s head. “Happy almost first Christmas!” 

“Do you want to hold her?”

“Can I?” Cady asks. The woman nods and gently passes the baby over. Janis is watching curiously until she feels a small finger prodding at her leg. 

“Hey,” Janis greets.

“Who are you?” Lennox asks suspiciously. The girl crosses her arms behind him like a hype man. 

“I’m Janis.”

“Oh my god,” Cady gasps. “I completely forgot! Janis, this is my nephew Lennox, and my nieces Fiona and Naomi,” she says, gesturing between the girl and the baby. “And my sister-in-law Madeleine, and my brother Callum.” 

“But who’s she?!” Lennox insists, pointing to Janis. 

“Lennox,” Callum scolds. “Manners.”

“Excuse me miss,” Lennox says politely. “Who are you?”

Callum rolls his eyes fondly. “Apologies, we’re working on it. Callum Heron, pleasure.”

“Janis Sarkisian. Same,” Janis replies, trying not to wince at the very firm handshake she receives. 

“Janis is… my girlfriend,” Cady says, walking over and smiling at her. She leans in for a kiss, which Janis returns. 

“Girlfriend?!” Madeleine says. Janis braces. Are they homophobic?  “And you didn’t tell me?! Cady! What happened to sisterhood?”

“You know how it is, Maddie,” Cady chuckles. “I’ll tell you everything over tea tomorrow. I promise.” 

“You’d better. Give me my baby back,” Madeleine says. 

“No. My Naomi,” Cady refuses, turning away when Madeline approaches to take her back. “Fine. I’ll just take… this one!” 

Fiona squeals happily as Cady picks her back up. “Auntie Cady!” 

“What?” Cady says, holding Fiona on her hip. 

“Daddy’s mean.”

“Daddy’s mean?” Cady says, grinning at her brother. “Well, we can’t have that. What did he do this time?” 

“He maked me sit in my car seat the whole entiwe time!” Fiona says in exasperation. “And! And-and he says I don’t getta have any mowe cookies!”

“No more cookies?” Cady gasps in horror. 

“Today! I said no more cookies today,” Callum huffs. “She’s already had six!” 

“Six cookies?” Cady asks, looking at the little girl just to put the whole story together. 

“Wittle cookies,” Fiona defends. 

“Little cookies,” Cady hums thoughtfully. “Well. Far be it from me to undermine your daddy’s parenting.”

“Auntie Cady!” Fiona whines. “Pwease?” 

“But I suppose,” Cady says dramatically. “That…”

“I don’t count,” Janis says, catching onto where Cady’s going with this. Something tells her getting into these kids’ good books is very important, so she offers the little girl one of the cookies she and Cady brought. “Here. I’ll undermine your dad’s parenting anytime.” 

“Thank you Miss Janis!” Fiona says eagerly, wiggling to be put down. Janis grins and accepts the offered handshake the toddler gives. 

“You’re welcome, kiddo,” Janis chuckles. Lennox gets a cookie too, and they both bounce up and down eagerly. “Sorry, Callum.”

“At least Cades gave it a rest,” Callum sighs. “Merry Christmas, baby sister.”

“Merry Christmas, big brother,” Cady replies with a conniving smile. 

“We’re gonna go get settled in. Nice to meet you, Janis,” Callum says. 

“You too,” Janis nods. 

“Auntie Cady, will you play with us?!” Lennox asks eagerly. “I brought my new fire truck!” 

“Oh my gosh, of course! But you should go get settled in with your family first. Come find me in a little bit and I promise I’ll play fire truck with you,” Cady replies. Lennox pouts the slightest bit, but he follows his father towards their rooms. She crouches down as Fiona tugs on the leg of her pants. “What’s up, Fifi?” 

“I like Miss Janis,” Fiona whispers conspiratorially. She’s not quite gotten whispering down, since everyone around can hear her. Cady smiles.

“I like her too. Go find your family,” Cady whispers back, kissing her niece’s cheek and sending her off to find her parents with a gentle pat on her back. “Sorry about that, I should’ve warned you.”

“No, it was fine. You can’t know when any social interaction is going to happen. They seem nice,” Janis says.

“Yeah,” Cady says, grinning faintly at the carpet.

“You really love those kids,” Janis says quietly. “Was cute.”

“I do,” Cady nods. “They’re exhausting, but they’re sweet kids.”

“How old are they?”

“Lenny’s six,” Cady says. “Crazy. He was born yesterday. Fifi’s three, and Naomi is… ffffffour months? Around there.” 

“Cute. Perfect spacing,” Janis chuckles. “Does anyone else have kids?” 

“Yeah, Charlie and Clif both have kids too,” Cady says. “You’ll meet them later. They’re slightly less tiring.” 

“Cool,” Janis replies. Cady smiles at her and nods. 

“Cool.”