#to split WIDE open in front of alys and ONLY ALYS because she's a fucking strong and his psychosexual obsession has gone simply Too Far

[meyerlansky]

if hotd really wanted to make my year they'd have just made eliot alys

put a long wavy wig and some mascara on him and we're off to the fucking races

[gamergirl929]

More Than Just A Matter Of Security (Kelley O’Hara x Reader)

Anonymous Request: A Kelley O’Hara one when reader is like a new security guard or a personal body guard to to the team so they start flirting and the team teases Kelley about it so out of sexual frustration they hook up in some random ass places. 

This fic is INCREDIBLY long, so buckle up. 

WARNING TONS OF SMUT BELOW. 

Kelley’s about to speak when you come into view, strutting towards the team, wear all black, your shirt tucked into your pair of black pants, topped off by a pair of black Nike shoes.  

“DAMNNNNNN, the new guard got CAKE .” Sonnett mumbles, earning a nudge from Lindsey.  

“Stop being a pervert.” She mumbles, and the defender snorts.  

“Tall order Horan, tall order.”

Kelley watches a cocky smirk spread across your face when your eyes lock with hers, a single brow arched as your eyes shamelessly rake down the defender’s front.  

“Ohhhhhhhhh...” Emily teases as you walk past her, turning around so you can walk backwards, your eyes, now running down Kelley’s back.  

“I think the new guard thinks KELLEY’S got cake.” Emily snickers, earning a punch on the shoulder from the defender who turns towards you.  

You grin, your tongue trapped between your teeth as you give her a wink.  

“Looks like SOMEONE was appreciating the view.” Megan smirks, giving the defender a nudge, the woman’s cheeks flushing.  

“Shut up.”  

                                                          ***

It’s later that day that you approach her, a smirk on your face.  

“I figured I’d come and introduce myself, considering you can’t keep your eyes off me.” You smirk splits into a cocky grin and Kelley’s brows arch.  

“Oh, I can’t keep my eyes off you?” She scoffs. “It seems the other way around to me.”  

You hum, shrugging.  

“I mean every time my eyes are on you, yours are on me.”  

Kelley turns towards you with a smirk, sizing you up with her eyes.  

“I can’t help it, it’s hard NOT to stare at you.” She winks and you chuckle, your cheeks flushing.  

“I’m Kelley.” She grins, a dazzling smile that makes your heart skip a beat.  

“Well Kelley...” You take a step closer, the woman standing her ground, a few inches between the two of you.  

“I’m Y/N. It looks like we’ll be seeing a lot of each other.” You bite your bottom lip and Kelley smirks.  

“I can’t say I mind that.” She winks, walking away.  

Unashamedly you watch her go, your eyes on her ass, that is until she glances over her shoulder, smirking.  

“Oh, I can’t say I mind either.”  

Meanwhile on field, the rest of the team is watching the interaction between the two of you, eyes wide.  

“They’ll totally hook up in the first month, bet.” Megan snaps her fingers and Ashlyn turns to her.  

“I say 2.”  

The two share a glance, eyes narrowed before Megan sticks her hand out, Ashlyn taking it with her large gloved one.  

“You’re on.”  

                                                          ***

“So that’s what you’re here to do?” Kelley asks as she moves to the sidelines, standing beside you with a smirk.  

“Stand here and look pretty?” You ask and she rolls her eyes.  

“Has anyone ever told you, you’re cocky?” She asks and you chuckle.  

“Loads of times.”  

Kelley stands beside you for a minute, crossing her arms across her chest and puffing her chest out.  

“In all honesty, I don’t know why your team needs me when they have you.” You grin, the defender turning to you with a laugh.

“Huh?”  

“Everyone knows how spicy you can be.” You grin and she rolls her eyes.  

“I’m not that spicy.” She mumbles, throwing her hands up in the air when the ref doesn’t call a foul.  

“What in the fuc-

Kelley freezes, turning to you with narrowed brown orbs.  

“Shut up.”  

“Did say anything...”  

                                                          ***

The longer you travel with the team, the closer you get with all of them, considering you’re not only the same age, but have the same kind of humor as well. If you were being honest though, you’d grown the closest with Kelley.  

Of course, the two of you flirted like a couple of teenagers, always trying to one up each other, but it had never went passed that.  

You would’ve been lying if you said you didn’t feel anything for the defender, her smile making your heart skip a beat, but there was something else that she made you feel, and that... THAT had been sexual frustration, the woman going out of her way to tease you, a flirtatious smirk on her face every time she saw you.  

The team had accepted you as one of their own, considering you acted like a number of them all rolled into one person, inviting you to movie nights and such. 

“What’s on your mind tough guy?”  

You jump at the sound of Emily’s voice and you smirk, the woman standing beside you with her arms crossed across her chest.  

“Straighten out your back a little.” You hum, the blonde doing as you ask, now at her full height.  

“Perfect.” You smirk, noticing the fans snapping pictures of the two of you as the game goes on, on the pitch.  

“Don’t show me up too much, I need the job.” You smirk and the blonde huffs.  

“I can’t stand straight too long, hurts my spine.” She whines and you grin.  

“Your spine damaged by years of bad posture?” You tease and Emily gasps.  

“I feel so attacked right now.”  

You give the blonde a nudge, missing the small smile on Kelley’s face, the defender’s brown orbs off of the game and on you.  

“Be careful O’Hara, your crush is showing.” Alex teases, the defender pouting.  

“Shut up.”  

                                                          ***

“Damn.” Kelley mumbles at practice when she spots you, significantly dressed down from your usual choice of clothes.  

“I can’t say I’m against you wearing these more often.” Kelley sticks a finger beneath the hem of your muscle tee and gives it a snap, your heart stopping in your chest.  

“I wouldn’t have worn it if it was cooler, so sorry I have to distract you for the day.” You smirk, the woman’s cheeks flushing from more than the heat.  

“Oh, you think I’m distracted by you?” She asks and you grin, taking a step towards you.  

“I think you are.” You lick your lips.  

Kelley smirks, a brow arched.  

“And I think you’re distracted just as much by me...” Her brown orbs flick from your eyes, to your lips and back.  

You shrug, grinning.  

“Maybe.”  

Kelley opens her mouth to speak, but is cut off by the sound of a whistle, the defender jumping. She clears her throat, sending you one last glance, a grin splitting her face in half.  

“Maybe you distract me too.”  

Your eyes widen as you watch her go, the woman grinning cockily as she moves towards your teammates.  

You clear your throat, glancing around as you do your best to ignore the dull ache between your legs.  

                                                          ***

Weeks and weeks of teasing have Kelley on edge, the woman’s core aching every time she sees your cocky smirk and twinkling Y/E/C orbs.  

“What are you doing?” You snort when Kelley abruptly grabs your wrist the second the two of you get in the backstage of the arena.  

The defender glances around before she opens a random door, when she’s satisfied no one will see the two of you and that the room is empty she shoves you inside, locking the door behind her.  

“Umm, why’d you lock the door?” You ask with an arched brow, but inside your absolutely buzzing, wondering if what you’ve been thinking about was about to happen.  

“Because you’re going to make me cum.” She says a matter of factly and your eyes widen.

Before you realize what’s happening, you’re shoved back against the wall behind you, the defender cupping your cheeks as she pulls you down into a kiss. 

The defender sighs as your lips meet, Kelley’s lips prodding at your bottom lip until your lips part.  

You let out a growl when your tongues meet for the first time, Kelley letting out a moan as her hands move to untuck your shirt from your pants.  

Kelley inhales sharply when you push her back against the opposite wall, your hands running down her body and palming her through her shorts.  

“Fuck.” She snarls, her eyes screwed shut as you rub your palm against her, the woman’s hips rolling.  

Kelley’s breath hitches as your strokes pick up speed, but seconds later your freeze, burying your face in Kelley’s neck as you let out a groan, the defender stroking you through your black jeans.  

“Oh fuck.” You growl as you rock into her, your own hand again moving against the front of her shorts.  

You let out a pitiful whine when Kelley’s hand leaves you entirely, but then she’s tugging you forwards, burying her face in your neck as she straddles on of your legs, her leg slipping between your own.  

Kelley’s fingers prod into your back as the two of you rut into one another, grunting and groaning into each other’s necks.  

The sound of Kelley’s soft sighs and moans in your ear drags you closer and closer to the edge, your rhythm sloppy.  

“Are you gonna cum?” You whisper in Kelley’s ear and she nods.  

“Ye-Yeah, I’m...” Kelley’s mouth hangs open, brows furrowing as she lets out a lengthy cry, muffled by your shoulder.  

You let out a raspy groan in her neck as you orgasm, quicker than you ever had before, but in this case, it was because this had been building up for months.  

Your hips soon still, as do Kelley’s the two of you panting heavily into each other’s necks.  

“Yeah, this is going to become a regular thing.” Kelley mumbles into your neck and you snort.  

“Has my vote.”  

                                                          ***

“Shit.” Kelley mumbles as she gets on the bus, glancing over her shoulder.  

“What’s wrong?” Alex asks, brows furrowed and the defender huffs.  

“I left something in the locker room...” She rolls her eyes. “I have to go back and get it.”  

“I’m sure we can wait?” Alex shrugs and Kelley shakes her head.  

“I’m sure Y/N can give me a ride to the hotel, but thanks.” Kelley slips off the bus, missing the way Megan glances at Ashlyn, the two grinning.  

“Oh, I bet she can give her a ride back, pay the fuck up.” Ashlyn holds a hand out to Megan who lets out a growl, fishing her wallet out of her bag.  

“You don’t know that that’s what they’re doing...” Ali mumbles, but the second the words leave her mouth everyone turns to her, brows arched.  

“Yeah, I realized it was dumb after I said it.”  

                                                          ***

“How’d you get them to leave without you?” You chuckle as Kelley rolls her hips into you, the defender laughing as you roll the two of you over, her legs wrapping around your middle.  

“Told them you’d give me a ride.” She smirks and you grin, a brow arched.  

“Ohhh, I can definitely do that.”  

Kelley rolls her eyes.  

“Shut up and fuck me.”  

“Ask nicely.”  

You grunt when Kelley bends her leg, rubbing it against the crotch of your pants. 

“Shit fuck.” You shudder, eyes slammed shut as Kelley watches you with a grin.  

“Am I asking nicely enough?” She teases, her tongue trapped between her teeth and you nod.  

“Ye-Yeah you’re asking nice enough.” You grunt, licking your lips.  

You shift, your thigh against the apex between Kelley’s thigh as the two of you roll your hips the car shifting slightly as the two of you hump like a couple of teenagers in the back seat of a car.  

“Y/N...” Kelley moans and your eyes widen, the sound of the defender moaning your name pushing you over the edge.  

“Kelley...” You groan into her neck, the defender climaxing moments later with a loud cry, your hips slowing after a few moments.  

The windows have indeed fogged up from the after practice exercise you’d done in the backseat of the car and you snicker.  

“You breathe too heavy.”  

“Shut up asshole.”  

                                                          ***

“Jesus Christ, you’re practically salivating.” Megan smacks your chest and you scoff.  

“Over what?”  

“Ummm, Kelley just lifted her shirt to wipe her face.” Ashlyn snorts and you shake your head.  

“Didn’t notice.”  

The two women share a glance.  

“Sureeeeeeeeee you didn’t.” Ashlyn smirks, she and Megan making their way to the bench to sit by their teammates, leaving you to stand rigid, your eyes darkening every time you watch Kelley’s calve muscles flex as she runs downfield.  

Soon, the familiar ache builds between your legs and you growl, hoping that halftime comes fast.  

                                                          ***

“Now?!” Kelley asks as you drag her to a secluded spot backstage and you nod. 

“I mean everyone needs a little halftime pick me up.” You shrug and Kelley snorts.  

“I can’t disagree.”  

The second you get her to an empty room your hand is down the front of her shorts, your fingers tracing her slit through her panties.  

Kelley untucks your shirt from your pants and stuffs her hands down your pants and into your boxers, the woman’s fingers running through your folds.  

“F-F-Fuck.”  

“You’re so wet already.” She whispers and you groan, the woman’s fingers rubbing against the throbbing bundle of nerves between your legs.  

Kelley gasps when you slip your hand out of her shorts and slip them into her panties, your fingers stroking her in a way that makes her body shudder.  

“Yeah, like that.” Kelley moans as you teasingly pinch the bundle of nerves between her legs.

“And you said I was wet.” You whisper in her ear, the woman crying out when you tease her entrance with your fingertips.  

Kelley drops her hips, the top section of your finger slipping inside her.  

“Eager, are we?” You ask and she shivers.  

“Please, inside.” She begs and you’re happy to obliged, slipping two of your long fingers inside of her, the woman letting out a shuddering moan.  

“Fuck, yeah.”  

You rest your forehead against hers, snarling when her fingers slip inside you.  

“Come on Y/N, I want you to fuck me.” She whispers in your ear, her hips starting to roll, her mouth hanging open, eyes screwed shut and brows furrowing.  

Still in Kelley’s state, her fingers move, her thumb rubbing against your clit as her fingers slip in and out of your tight heat.  

You can feel your release creeping up on you, and by the way Kelley’s walls flutter around your fingers, she’s close too.”  

“Fuck I’m gonna cum.” Kelley moans, your fingers curling in a way that pushes her over the edge, the sound of her moans pushing you over the edge seconds later.  

                                                          ***

Ashlyn rolls her eyes, turning to look at Sonnett who has her hands over her ears.  

“I can’t unhear that.” She pouts as Ashlyn moves towards the door, slamming her palm against the door.  

“Seriously? You guys couldn’t wait until AFTER the game? Get your asses to the locker room.” The goalie rolls her eyes, she and Sonnett taking their leave, Ashlyn consoling the blonde defender.  

                                                          ***

Meanwhile, back inside the room you and Kelley are looking at each other with wide eyes.  

“Fuck.” Kelley growls as your fingers slip out of her, your eyes locking with hers as you clean her essence from your digits.  

The defender follows suit, her fingers leaving your tight channel before slipping into her mouth, the woman humming at the taste.  

“Looks like that cat is out of the bag.” You shrug and Kelley rolls her eyes, smacking your chest.  

“Shut up idiot.”  

“Hey, if you weren’t porn star moaning, we wouldn’t get caught.”  

“Hey! At least I don’t snarl like a grizzly bear.” She rolls her eyes and you smirk.  

“If I remember correctly, that snarl as made you cum a few times.”  

Kelley’s eyes narrow as she glares at you, cheeks and ears flushing pink.  

“Shut up.”  

Reluctantly, you head back to the locker room, smiling when you realize Kelley has taken your hand, her fingers slipping between yours.  

By the time you get to the locker room, everyone turns to you with knowing smirks, except for Emily, the woman hiding her face in Ashlyn’s chest.  

“How dare you scar her.” Alex rubs her back and the two of your cheeks flush.  

“Sorry?” You shrug unapologetically, and Kelley smacks your chest.

It’s in that moment that Alex realizes the two of you are holding hands, her blue orbs darting from your joined hands to Kelley’s face.  

The defender jerks her hand away from yours and moves towards her locker, leaving you behind with the phantom feeling of her hand in yours.  

                                                          ***

Holding Kelley O’Hara’s hand felt so right, righter than holding someone’s hand had EVER felt.  

You drum your fingers against your bicep, watching the game go on in front of you, your eyes on a certain defender as she runs downfield.  

“You care about her, don’t you?” You pick your head up, eyes wide when you see Alex Morgan standing in front of you, the woman giving you a soft smile.  

“I don’t know what you’re-

“Bullshit.” She snorts and you sigh.  

The forward doesn’t relent though, standing beside you, her arms crossed across her chest.

“We’re just messing around.” You whisper lowly, the woman leaning close to hear you, rolling her blue orbs as she pulls back.  

“That doesn’t mean that feelings can’t develop between the two of you.” Alex growls and you huff.  

“It’s just sex, that’s it.”  

Alex pats your shoulder.  

“The longer you keep telling yourself that, the worse  it’ll make you feel.”  

You watch the forward move towards the bench and take a seat a frown tugging the corners of your mouth down.  

You know she was right, but really admitting it to yourself meant cutting off what was going on with Kelley and honestly, you didn’t want that to end.  

                                                          ***

A knock on your hotel room door makes your brows furrow.  

You’d just gotten out of the shower and into your clothes to get ready for bed when someone started insistently knocking on the door.  

One look through the peephole and you’re tugging the door open, a brow arched when you see Kelley O’Hara standing on the other side.  

“You making a house call?” You snort, the defender rolling her eyes as she slips into your room.  

“Who are you? Get out of my room!?” You say teasingly, Kelley grabbing your arm and pulling you into the room, kicking the door shut behind you.  

“I needed to talk to you.” Kelley sighs and your eyes widen, your heart skipping a beat in your chest, but the voice in the back of your head tells you that she isn’t here to talk about pursuing more with you, so you plaster on a charming smile, as per usual and swagger towards the bed.  

“We can’t hook up anymore in public.” Kelley says in a single breath.  

You snort.  

“Yeah, I figured since we got caught.” You shrug, sitting beside her on the bed and Kelley nods.  

“Do you uhhh...” Kelley swallows hard, her gaze on the hotel’s tacky carpet beneath your feet. 

“Do you want to stop ummm, what we were doing?” Kelley asks and you lick your lips, staring at the woman’s profile.  

The woman nervously fidgets, glancing out of the corner of her eye at you every few seconds.  

“Are you just going to stare at me?” She asks and you chuckle.  

The woman lets out a squeak when you lift her into the air and place her in your lap.  

“Do you want to stop?” You ask and Kelley licks her lips.  

You inhale sharply when the woman gives her hips a roll, her bottom lip trapped between her teeth.  

"Now that I’ve seen you half naked...” She whispers, her hands running down your chest, nails digging into your muscular stomach.  

Kelley leans in, pressing her lips against yours, your heart stuttering in your chest at the feel of her lips against yours.  

Her fingers tangle in your hair as your lips part, Kelley’s tongue slipping into your open mouth, caressing your tongue with hers.  

Kelley gives her hips a roll and you shudder, your arms slipping beneath hers, your hands on her back.  

The two of you part, a grin stretching across her face.  

“It’s not fair if I’m the only one half naked at this party.” Your brows arch and Kelley rolls her eyes, holding her arms up in the air.  

“Well?” She winks and you grin, pulling her shirt over her head and tossing it to the floor. 

You hum loudly. 

“Still a little overdressed.” You teasingly stick your fingers in the hem of her sweats and give them a tug.  

You watch with wide eyes as Kelley stands, pulling her sweats off with no hesitation, your cheeks flushing as you drink her in, realizing she’s in nothing but a thong.  

“Better?” She asks, watching as the muscle in your jaw jumps and you nod.  

“Ye-Yeah, be-better.” You stammer, the defender grinning as she goes to climb into your lap.  

The defender gasps when she ends up flat on her back, her head on the pillows at the head of the bed.  

“First time having you in a REAL bed.” You smirk, ducking down to latch onto her pulse point, the woman tilting her head back as you teasingly lash her pulse point with your tongue, giving it a nibble before giving it a hard suck.  

“Shit.” Kelley groans, her fingers running down your back as you suck a bruise into her neck.  

“That’s going to leave a mark.” You tease the defender sighing as she cups your cheeks, pulling you into a kiss.  

“Fuck, I don’t care.” She whispers against your lips gasping when your leg slips between hers, your hips rolling as you kiss, tongue sloppily swiping at one another.  

Kelley whines when your lips leave hers, but soon her back’s arching when you’re nibbling on her collarbone, your lips trailing down to the swell of her breasts.  

As you suck the pillowlike flesh into your mouth Kelley pulls you closer, forcing more into your mouth before you release it with a loud pop, quickly turning your attention to her other breast.  

Kelley shoves you back and your eyes widen, the woman fumbling with taking her bra off.  

She grumbles as she tries to unhook it, her eyes narrowed as she glares at you. 

“You get it.” She pouts and you smile, slipping a hand behind her and flicking your wrist, her bra immediately coming undone.  

“Wipe the smirk of your face.” She grumbles, taking her bra off and tossing it on the floor.  

“Your turn.” She flicks your sports bra strap and you smirk, jerking it over your head.  

Immediately Kelley ducks down, latching onto your nipple.  

You tilt your head back, sighing as the woman’s tongue lashes against your nipple.  

“Fuck.” You groan as Kelley does the same to your other breast, kissing and nipping on the erect bud with a smirk.  

“Shit Y/N.” She whispers as you roll your hips, legs wrapping around you as she buries her face between your breasts, nipping and sucking the flesh until you’re covered in bruises.  

You shove her back onto the bed, the defender chuckling as you slither down her, lighting brushing one of her nipples with the tip of your tongue.  

“You don’t get to have all the fun.”  

Kelley can’t keep still, as your lips latch to her nipple, the woman’s back arching as you lash the stiff bud with your tongue.  

“Like that.” Kelley sighs and you grin, pulling back to give her breasts a few love bites, the defender grinning as you latch onto her other breast, giving it similar attention.  

“Take them off.” Kelley commands as you pull back, your eyes wide.  

“Are you...” You swallow hard, your eyes widening when Kelley sits up, cupping your cheeks.  

Her brown orbs dart around your face as her thumb runs across your bottom lip. 

“If you want to.” She whispers, leaning in to playfully bump her nose against yours. “I want to, but ONLY if you’re okay with it.”  

You lick your lips, your nose brushing Kelley’s as your lips meet in a tender kiss.

Considering your eyes are closed you can’t see when Kelley’s eyes snap open, doubling in size when something more than lust runs through her.  

Kelley’s eyes shut again just as you pull back.  

“I want to.”  

Your eyes remain locked with hers as you run down her body, your fingers slipping into the waistband of her thong.  

Kelley nods, licking her lips as you strip her off the wet garment, your eyes still locked with her brown orbs until she spreads her legs, your eyes dropping to the apex between her thighs.  

“Jesus, you’re soaked.” You whisper as you press a kiss to her calf, the woman’s tongue pushing between the tight line formed by her mouth.  

You give her opposite calf equal attention before kissing up her thighs, stopping just shy of where she needs you most and sucking a bruise into her flesh.  

“Please Y/N.” She whispers and you smirk, nibbling at her hip bone.  

“Please what?” You ask and she growls, tangling her fingers in your hair and shoving your head between her legs.  

“So forceful.” You smirk and Kelley growls.  

“Y/N just-

The woman’s brows furrow, her eyes screwing shut and mouth falling open as you run your tongues through her folds for the first time.  

“And I thought you tasted good on my fingers.” You whisper, blowing on her slick slit and the woman’s back arches.  

Soon you’re back between her legs, a feeling Kelley can only describe as utter pleasure, the woman gasping and moaning as you find each and every spot that makes her toes curl.  

“There!” Kelley yells, tangling her fingers in your hair, her back arched as your tongue moves just the way she likes it.  

Kelley can feel the heat building in her lower belly, her lips parted as she grabs fistfuls of your hair, rocking into your eager mouth.  

“Y/N, I’m gonna...” She squeaks.  

“Cum baby, cum for me.” You whisper against her sex and Kelley cums with an obscene groan, her essence coating your tongue which you’re more than happy to lap up.  

At the way Kelley’s hips quiver you get a devilish idea, pulling her flesh up with your thumb before lashing your tongue against the hidden, most sensitive part of her clit.  

“FUCK Y/N!” She screams, cumming again with a cry, her back arched as much as humanly possible.  

You help her down from her high, pressing a tender kiss to her sex before you’re pulling back, the defender covered in a thin sheen of sweat as she pants heavily, her lips parted.  

You fall onto the bed beside her, the defender rolling over, burying her nose in your neck.  

“I’ll... I’ll be ready in a minute.” She pants and you grin.  

“You don’t have to.” You grin and she shakes her head.  

“No... I...” Kelley grins, giggling.  

“Damn, you’re good at that.” She shivers and you smirk, rolling on your side and wrapping your arms around her, the sweat covered woman wiggling closer, her nose buried in your chest.  

You give her forehead a tender kiss, the woman smiling as she nuzzles into your chest.  

“I’ll just take a power nap...” Kelley yawns and you nod.  

“Sure, you will.”  

The defender mumbles tiredly and you smirk.  

“Sleep.” You whisper, kissing her forehead and the woman smiles, nuzzling closer before her breathing evens out and she’s fast asleep.  

You look down at her with a smile, the defender smiling in her sleep making your heart skip a beat.  

“Night Kel.” You whisper, your eyes fluttering shut.  

Soon you too are fast asleep.

                                                          ***

Kelley wakes well before you, smiling when she smells your body wash, the delicious ache in her hips reminding her of the night’s activities, as if she could actually forget the mind-blowing orgasms, you’d given her.  

Kelley stares up at you through her eyelashes, a smile stretching across her face at the way your mouth hangs open, soft snores coming from your open mouth.  

“I always knew you’d be a snorer.” She whispers against your chest, her eyes fluttering shut.  

Kelley’s eyes flash back open though when you pull her closer in your sleep, mumbling under your breath.  

Kelley tilts her head back, kissing the underside of your jaw, nuzzling against the spot she’d just kissed.  

The defender cups your cheek, tilting your head down so she can look at your sleeping face. She leans in, her lips inches away from yours as her eyes flutter shut, soon she too is again fast asleep.  

                                                          ***

Waking the next morning, your lips mere inches away from Kelley’s is something you could definitely get used to.  

You let out a lengthy sigh, your eyes widening when Kelley’s sleepy brown orbs flutter open.  

“Finally, you sleep like a bear.” She laughs, voice raspy and you chuckle.  

“How long have you been awake?” You ask, stretching and she smirks.  

“A while...”  

“Were you kissing me in my sleep, weirdo.” You tease and she rolls her eyes.  

“No, I just wanted to be close enough to do this when you woke up...”  

Kelley leans in, pressing a gentle kiss to your lips, cupping your cheek with one hand and taking your hand with the other, intertwining your fingers as the two of you kiss softly.  

If Kelley were clothed, the kissing would be incredibly tame, though when she rolls the two of you over, her bare chest pressing against yours, you know it’s anything but.  

You inhale sharply, the woman smirking, ducking down to kiss your neck.  

“I suppose I should return the favor for all those hickies.” She whispers kissing and nipping at your flesh before sucking a bruise into your neck.  

“Kel...”  You gasp, the woman smirking.  

“Hmmm?” She hums as she nibbles on your earlobe and you sigh, the apex of your thighs throbbing considering you hadn’t orgasmed the night before.  

“Ohh, I bet you’re still turned on...” She whispers in your ear, sliding down your body, pushing herself up on her hands, hovering over you.  

“How do you think this would feel...?” Kelley lowers herself towards your chest and you swallow hard, grunting even at the feel of Kelley’s breath on your chest. 

“Shit.” You sigh as Kelley lightly flicks her tongue against the sensitive erect bud, your back arching.  

“You are still turned on...” She whispers as she gives your nipple a bite, earning a groan as your body shivers.  

The amount of pleasure you feel JUST from the woman lightly stimulating your nipples is enough to push you over the edge, but soon she’s pulling back with a smirk.  

“Oh no, you’re not cumming yet.” She smirks, watching as a bead of sweat runs down your face. She crawls up your body, her lips pressing against yours, the two of you again getting lost in kissing, the sound of your lips meeting the only sound in the quiet room.  

“FUCK.” You yell when Kelley, unbeknownst to you, slips a hand between your legs and palms you through your boxers, your brows furrowed and eyes screwed shut.  

“Are you ready for me?” She asks and you nod, your lips parted.  

“Ye-yes, p-please.” You grunt, inhaling sharply when Kelley tears your boxers off, the cold air hitting your slick heat.  

“God, you’re soaked.” Kelley says as she spreads your legs, licking her lips.  

Kelley smirks, her brown orbs locked with your Y/E/C orbs as she lowers her face to your core.  

“I think I’ve teased you long enough.” She whispers, pressing a kiss to your pulsing clit, the small touch making your back arch.  

Kelley smiles up at you, the sight of your pleasure, her own core throbbing.  

The defender dives between your legs, her eyes rolling back in her head at the taste of your sex.  

“God-da-damn.” You stutter, your fingers tangling in Kelley’s hair as your hips roll, Kelley paying extra attention to your clit.  

Kelley slips two fingers inside you and you let out a literal snarl, the defender moaning against your sex, her body shuddering at the sound.  

“Fuck, I want to hear you make that sound again.”  She whispers against you, her fingers curling inside you.  

“Kel, I’m...”

“I want you to cum, cum for me baby.” She whispers and you do, letting out a groan as you cum, the defender smirking against you, her own release creeping up on her as she rubs herself against the bed.  

The orgasm is like one you never experienced, your toes curling, your eyes rolling in the back of your head as you convulse.  

“Ohhh yeah...” You shake, twitching, gasping when Kelley’s fingers slam into you, never ceasing, the woman taking a play from your own book by pulling the hood of your clit back and sucking on the newly exposed shaft of your clit.  

“KELLEY!” You cry out, letting out a guttural roar as you cum again, your body convulsing even harder.  

“Oh fuck, Y/N.” Kelley cries, burying her face in your thigh as she cums, her body shaking.  

“God-Fuck... Shit.” Your body shivers harder, the sound of the woman’s orgasm prolonging your own.  

You finally still, your eyes still rolled in the back of your head as you twitch and quake from the aftermath of three powerful orgasms.  

“Shit Y/N...” Kelley sighs as she crawls on top of you, flopping down on top of you, the two of you panting heavily.  

“Jesus.” You whisper, wrapping your arms tightly around her, the two of you covered in a thin sheen of sweat.  

“Is today your day off...?” You whisper and the defender nods.  

“Yeah.”  

You grin.  

“Well I think I know what we’re doing today.” You smirk and Kelley giggles.  

“I can’t say I mind the sound of that.”  

                                                          ***

“So, I guess Y/N and Kelley are fucking all day, and I’m NOT about to go knock on that door.” Ashlyn shakes her head as she takes a seat beside Ali at breakfast.  

“Y/N is just digging a deeper hole.” Alex frowns, everyone turning to her with an arched brow.  

“What do you mean?” Lindsey asks and Emily scoffs, sitting down beside her.  

“Y/N is in love with Kelley, but doesn’t want to admit it.”  

The sound of gasp makes everyone still, the team turning around to see you and Kelley standing side by side, your eyes downcast and Kelley’s eyes wide.  

Kelley can’t seem to get herself to move, even when you turn on your heels and take off, leaving her and the team behind.  

“Kel...” Alex moves to her feet, placing her hands on Kelley’s shoulders.  

The woman blinks, glancing around, her brown orbs doubling in size.  

“Did you...” Kelley looks at Sonnett, the blonde’s eyes wide.

“Did you say she loves me?” She asks and Emily swallows hard.  

“You weren’t supposed to find out this way...” She whispers, unaware that you’re already upstairs stripping out of your clothes and grab the essentials, leaving everything else behind.  

“Wait, she, she loves me?” Kelley asks, chuckling in disbelief as she moves to sit beside Sonnett, her and Alex sharing a glance.  

Kelley remember the tender kisses you’d shared that morning, how she felt when she woke in your arms that morning and how she felt seeing you were asleep in her arms.  

Kelley blinks rapidly, the woman smiling as she jumps to her feet and runs off.  

“I LOVE HER TOO.”  

Alex shakes her head, smirking.  

“I hope they figure this out...”  

Little did she know you had already made your escape, taking off down the sidewalk and further into the city.

Kelley comes down minutes later, tears in her eyes.  

“She took most of her things... She’s gone.”  

                                                          ***

“Shit fuck.” You shiver.  

Unfortunately for you, it had started to snow, and also unfortunately for you, you hadn’t exactly grabbed a coat in your haste to leave.  

“Of course, it would be fucking snowing, of fucking course.” You growl under your breath as you shake.  

Even through the cold you march down the sidewalk, unwilling to go back to the hotel.  

You know Emily didn’t mean to tell your secret, you didn’t blame her, it was jus bad timing and it couldn’t have been worse.  

Wandering around the city you eventually end up at a park, the sidewalks now dusted with snow, as you begrudgingly sit on a bench, your body shuddering.  

Yeah, it was cold, but you weren't going to the hotel, not yet, because then you’d have to face her and the harsh reality that she didn’t feel the same.  

                                                          ***

“Is there ANYWAY we can do to find her!? It’s cold and she didn’t take her coat!” Kelley motions to your suitcase and Emily clears her throat.  

“We’re going to Alex’s room; it smells of sin in here.” Emily mumbles, earning a narrowed eyed glare from the defender.  

“Come on, I’m sure we can figure out a way to find Y/N.” Megan leads the charge to Alex’s room, the entire team brainstorming.  

“Wait, can we track her through Insta or something?” Julie snaps her fingers and everyone turns to her, smirking.  

“Ertz comes through for us again!”  

                                                          ***

You don’t know how long you sit on the bench, unmoving until someone gives your shoulder a shake.  

“Y/N, hey, we need to get you back to the hotel...”  

You blink rapidly, your brows furrowed.  

“Lys?” You ask, the goalie nodding.  

“Yeah, it’s me. Jesus, you’re freezing.” She mumbles, helping you to your feet, your bones aching from the cold, a thin coating of snow covering you.

“How long have I been out here?” You mumble, glancing around and Julie frowns, coming from out of nowhere, slipping a coat over you.  

“A couple hours.” She frowns and you shudder, her, Crystal, and Carli leading you down the sidewalk.  

“Come on, let’s get you back.”  

You swallow hard, stopping, much to everyone’s dismay.  

“Does she hate me?” You ask shivering and Julie shakes her head, smiling.  

“Of course not.”

Alyssa smiles, shaking her head.  

“She never could.”  

Carli and Crystal gently place their hands on your back.

Carli smiles.

“But you two need to talk.”  

You nod, swallowing hard.

“I know.”

                                                          ***

“Alyssa found her, they’re heading back to the hotel now.” Christen sighs in relief.

“Is she okay?’ Kelley asks worriedly and Christen frowns.

“Apparently she was just sitting on a bench covered in snow.”

Kelley pinches the bridge of her nose, sighing.

“Damn it Y/N…” She mumbles, her heart racing.

The second they get back to the hotel, Kelley basically leaps out of the car, leaving her teammates behind as she makes a beeline for the elevator.

Kelley makes her way down the hall towards your room, eyes wide when she sees Julie standing outside your door.

“Is she okay?” The defender asks and Julie nods.

“Freezing, but okay.”

Kelley moves towards the door, but before she can step inside, Julie catches her wrist.

“She really cares about you Kel.”  

Kelley nods, giving Julie’s hand a squeeze  

“I know.”

                                                          ***

The second the door opens you freeze, your eyes slamming shut.

The bed dips and your eyes flash open, locking with Kelley’s dark brown orbs.

Kelley cups your cheeks, your flesh freezing beneath her hands.

“God, you’re so cold.” She whispers, surprising you when she slips under the covers with you, wrapping her arms tightly around you.

“Kel I-

Kelley shushes you softly.

“We’ll talk about it later, let’s just focus on you getting warm.”

Kelley immediately notices how rigid you are and she frowns.

“Look I promise we’ll talk, okay? But right now you need to get warmed up, the #1 priority.”  

Soon the rest of the team is upstairs, peeking in the room to see the two of you huddled together, the defender’s arms wrapped around you.

“Let’s give them some privacy.”  

Ashlyn shrugs.

“Orrrrrrrrr… we could always listen through the wall since our room is right beside theirs…”  

Everyone shares a glance.

Ali grins.

“Alright you talked me into it.”

She basically runs into the hotel room, her teammates following close behind.

“Didn’t take much.” Ashlyn snorts.

“I’m invested, if I have to listen to them screw all night long, I deserve to know if they’re together!”  

                                                          ***

Kelley pulls you close, her eyes screwed shut as she holds your still shivering and shuddering body.  

“I was so scared.” She whispers, nuzzling into your cold neck, the woman’s hot breath on your neck making you sigh.  

“I’m sorry I scared you.” You say, voice raspy and raw from disuse.  

Kelley pulls back cupping your cheeks, though she wanted to focus on warming you up, she also wanted to address the elephant in the room.  

You can’t help but stiffen, not wanting to turn to Kelley, the woman’s brown orbs holding a truth that you worried would go against what you wanted, what your heart wanted.  

“Please look at me.”  

You sigh, your eyes screwed shut as you turn towards her, eyes still hidden behind closed eyelids.  

“Please Y/N. Please.” Kelley pleads and you take a deep breath, nodding to yourself before your eyes finally flutter open.  

Your Y/E/C orbs lock with hers, Kelley’s brown orbs shining with tears.  

“P-P-Please don’t cry.” You stammer, covering the hands on your cheeks with your own.  

“Kel. I’m so sorry I just-

You inhale sharply when Kelley leans in, her lips pressing against your cold ones.  

The kiss is tender, a kiss you’d shared a few times before, a kiss that told you that she feels the same, that she did back then, but like you, she had no idea how to tell you.  

The two of you part, your lips splitting in a grin as your eyes lock with hers.  

Kelley leans in, her forehead resting against yours.  

“I love you Y/N... I have for a while and I’m sorry I didn’t-

You lean in, silencing her with a kiss, the two of you parting only when you can’t stop grinning.  

“I love you too.” You whisper, the defender giggling as she lunges back in, crawling on top of you as she presses kisses to your lips, your chin, your cheeks, your forehead, anywhere and everywhere she can reach.  

Kelley hums, smirking, her tongue slipping between her lips as her brown orbs dart around your face. She leans in, playfully brushing her nose against yours.  

“I know a way we can warm up.” You flirt, the defender rolling her eyes.  

“Shut up and go to sleep, get your mind out of the gutter.”  

That’s how the team finds you later, the two of you fast asleep, your arms wrapped tightly around the defender whose nose is buried in your neck, her hand cupping your cheek.  

“It’s about time...” Alex smiles as she tiptoes to the bed, pulling the blankets up and over the two of you.  

“This probably means we should suggest that Kelley and Y/N have a room away from us when we travel, right?” Emily sighs and Ashlyn nods.  

Christen snorts.  

“Yeah, that won’t help, we could hear them down the hallway.” Christen glances at Tobin, the woman nodding.  

“So, a different floor then?” Emily shrugs, and Julie scoffs.  

“Nope, we could hear them up there too.”  

“A new hotel then?” Emily huffs and everyone snickers.  

“Yep.”  

Kelley snarls, sleepily.

“Could you guys go away?” She mumbles sleepily and everyone rolls their eyes. 

“Fineeeeeee. Congrats Kel.” Alex ruffles the defender’s hair and she huffs, glaring at everyone until they leave the room, before she turns back to you, you who are still fast asleep.  

“I love you Y/N... I’m sorry it took me so long to admit it.”  

You grumble in your sleep, pulling her back down against your chest.  

“I love you too.”

[chaotictommy]

Chapter II. Learning To Fall

Jimmy struggled a little, laughing despite of the growing feeling he was getting in the pit of his stomach. Johnny didn’t seem to notice the blush on his friend’s face and playfully started gently slapping his face “What you gonna man? What you gonna do? The enemy deserves,” “To be told that he’s very annoying? Eek! Johnny!” Johnny chuckled and kept going “No Mr. Jones, what does the enemy deserve?” “No mercy?” Johnny grinned “What should you do?” “Tell him to kindly get off me? It’s a good thing you’re not larger, because—” Johnny punched down and Jimmy caught his wrist “Wrong! What should you do?” Jimmy squiggled and laughed, bucking up to try and get Johnny off of him “Strike first,” Johnny pinned him lazily, faking a yawn “Can do this all day Mr. Jones... and how are you gonna strike?” Jimmy shot him a teasing smile which Johnny thought was cu— nope, no way “Really pathetically slow like a sloth, Sensei Lawrence?”

Johnny groaned and rolled his eyes, pressing harder, kinda liking the proximity between him and — No, he wasn’t like that... he wasn’t a f— Jimmy struggling a little against him, brought him back to reality “How are you gonna strike?” “Hard...” Johnny nodded in approval “And with?” Jimmy grinned, showing a small gap between his two front teeth, Johnny had never noticed before “A really long stick... joking... No mercy... Johnny please let me up? Please? Johnny man...” Johnny shook his head gently “Not till I teach you how to get out of someone’s grip when they’ve got you head locked,” Jimmy’s eyes widened, knowing what was coming and disliking the smirk that came over Johnny’s lips “Oh Johnny no... ohhh ho ho, we aren’t going to — Johnny Lawrence!“ Johnny shrugged and moved forward, turning it into a slap fight between him and his friend “No mercy man,” he was about to say something else, but was cut off by Jimmy’s yelp of surprise as Johnny pulled him closer and down into a head lock.

"And then you'd?" Jimmy gave his friend a playful smirk "Knee you in the balls?" Johnny chuckled, releasing Jimmy from the head lock "No, even though that could work, nice thinking, but please don't?" He pressed Jimmy back to the ground and the tattered carpet and slammed his arms down over his head, holding them there in an iron grip and using the strength and weight of his body to lock Jimmy down against the floor, rolling his hips a little into a better position “Okay, now let’s see if you remember what I taught you... so what is the fir—“ he stopped suddenly, eyes flashing open in a wide eyed look, confusion turning to realisation, surprise, and embarrassment as Jimmy leaned up and pressed his lips to the blondes, in what was the most tentative and tender kiss of the century.

Johnny couldn’t, HE COULDN’T... Sid would... he couldn’t think, registered only two things, before he harshly pushed the brunette away, before loosening his grip on the others collar, suddenly pulling him back in before he forced himself to let him go, harsh angry words he didn’t mean, leaving him in a split second. And in that split second, he knew without a doubt he had made the worst mistake of his life, because Jimmy‘s face flickered through ten stages of surprise till it landed on a type of mortified grief and he slammed up off the floor and ran out of the room looking like he was doomed. He hardly managed to get on his bike before taking a bad fall.

Johnny was there in an instant, but was shoved half heartedly away as the brunette rode off at a hurried pace, not letting Johnny see the hurt he was hiding just under the surface. When he rode off, Johnny sunk into his chair and polished off his beer, thinking about what he should do. Had that actually happened? Did he like it? No, NO, he couldn’t... it wasn’t a hot babe, it was his friend, a male friend at that... so what was this feeling? Repressed feelings started to leak out from under the calm persona he was playing... he sighed, sometimes it felt like he was playing anyone but himself.

He decided that the best thing to do was ignore it... yeah, that’s right... so Johnny did just that, but it wasn’t that easy and he suddenly found himself not only ignoring the situation, but found himself ignoring his friend as well. A week into actively rushing out of classrooms and avoiding each other at all costs, Bobby started to ask questions.

“You guy’s fight or something, man?” Johnny rolled his eyes as he slammed the tray down at one of the school tables “No man, we didn’t fight or anything, but if you keep asking stupid questions there is going to be a fight, got it?” Bobby put up his hands in defeat “Alright alright man, just wanted to see if you were okay, you’re my best friend and I worry about you some times,” he smiled awkwardly at Johnny before looking away.

Tommy, Dutch, and Jimmy walked over, the bleached blonde and the grinning from ear to ear Tommy, basically frog marching the quiet brunette over “Found this kid at a different table, like he’s embarrassed to sit with us or something,” Tommy muttered, a twinkle of mischief in his eyes “you sit down right here JD,” he stated, affectionately using Jimmy’s first initials, which made Jimmy chuckle slightly “Tommy, you know I don’t like it when you call me that, it’s like me calling you Thomas,” he sat down directly opposite Johnny and made eye contact with the blonde “Hi...” Johnny bit his lip “Hey,” “Hey, now that you guy’s have the greetings down, could you both stop eye fucking each other? It’s making me sick, like it’s weirding me out...” Dutch stated, causing both Jimmy and Johnny to break eye contact as if they’d been shocked by an electric field.

“We weren’t eye fucking, man, cut it out,” Johnny stated before he swept Dutch’s legs from under him “Honestly, firstly, Jimmy’s cute in a kind of boy next door, I’ll bring her back at eight, sir, goody toe shoes way, but he isn’t my type, I like Hot babes, first off, he isn’t a chick, doesn’t have the right stuff,” he paused for a moment and chuckled “And second, I’d never even think about him in that way because I’m not a fa— oh fuck there’s that worm,” he stared over at the other table where Ali and LaRusso had just sat down at, glaring over at them.

“Just leave it Johnny, she’s old news anyway,” Bobby stated and patted his best friend’s shoulder gently and reassuringly “Honestly you’ll find someone else, man, someone better,” he heard a muttered collection of approval from his other friends and glanced over at Jimmy who was staring at him, which was starting to bug. He leaned forward over the table “Do I have something on my face Jimmy?” “What? Oh oh, now that you mention it, yeah, yeah, you do, here, Lemme,” before Johnny had warning, Jimmy leaned over the table and dabbed at the apple pie crumbs that had stuck to Johnny’s lip.

Johnny felt a surge of — he looked up to find he’d reached out and was holding Jimmy’s hand, trapping his hand in his own while Jimmy’s fingers stopped in their gentle motion against his lip.

Jimmy’s eyes widened, looking like he was winning the ‘wide eyed Bambi’ contest “J—Johnny?” He said anxiously in a soft breath, fluttering his eyes open and closed before he met Johnny’s.

Johnny was having a ‘no thoughts, head empty, panic’ moment and just stared at the hand in his, the fingers caught against his lips. It took a good minute to pull his gaze away and slap Jimmy’s hand away as a cover to why he’d — no way... no fricking way.

Feelings he’d only had with Ali shot through him and in that second, it was his time to blush, he felt hot, sweaty palms dragging across his pant legs to wipe the sweat away hurriedly, the pit of his stomach felt — he just registered that he’d stood up, walked out, that Jimmy had followed, looking in silent confusion and distress at his friend.

Johnny then registered that he was talking, asking if he was alright or something, he didn’t hear, only knew that the next moment, and Johnny hardly knew how it happened, he’d tugged Jimmy by his collar into an abandoned classroom and pressed his lips on his, gripping his wrists so that he couldn’t pull away from it, but the moment between them was over as soon as it began.

When Johnny’s brain finally switched back on, he registered that the lips on his were no girl’s that he’d ever... he shoved his friend back, making it seem as if he was angry, furious, disgusted, he shoved Jimmy against the blackboard hard “You stay the hell away from me man, got it? I’m I’m not a fag, like you, sorry that you’re so in love with me, but I’m not some type of of freak like you...” Johnny knew everything he was saying was wrong... EVERYTHING... but was it out of fear or something else, he kept going “You ever do that again and I swear I’ll I’ll —,” he let him go and watched Jimmy processing everything before his eyes widened in regret and something close to revulsion and pain “J—Johnny?” There were footsteps in the hall and the classroom flooded with sound and students scraping seats across the ground, and just like that, Jimmy ran out of the room, dropping his school books as he went, not looking back as he knocked Tommy over on his way in.

[quentinxdelancret]

Christmas Day 🎄 || Aarotin  ♥  

Discord thread featuring: Quentin and  Aaron @aaronhart93

When:  December 25th 2020

Mentions: Alison Haynes @alison-haynes

Description: Quentin spends Christmas with Aaron and meets Des for the first time.

Trigger Warnings: All the feels as per usual. 🥺   (short but sweet)

Quentin. Honestly, Quentin didn’t really know how to feel. He kinda felt like he was crashing Aaron’s Christmas plans, but on the other hand, he felt all warm and mushy. This was such a coupley thing to do, and it left him feeling  all weird and mushy. But not in a bad way per say. He loved Aaron, and truthfully he couldn’t imagine himself being anywhere else right now. But he wasn’t so sure if Aaron loved him too and the last thing he wanted was to be too much again. He tried not to think about it too in depth though. He was excited above all else, and even with his saddened heart, he was all smiles. He laced his hand through Aaron’s as they walked into the living area where everyone was already patiently waiting. His heart practically sinking into his gut when he sat Des dancing around in front of the tree. It didn’t take him long to kind of hide behind his lovers arm. Not wanting to over step in any kind of way. He just wanted Aaron to be in control. For this meeting and this day to go exactly how Aaron envisioned. He wanted to tightened his hand around the business mans, but instead he  completely let go as Des turned to face them. His smile widening bigger than his face as she ran over to hug her daddy.

Aaron. Aaron didn't forget that night he told Quentin that he loved him. He wished he did, but the truth was that it was pretty much impossible to forget. They were both very, very drunk and he really hoped that Q had completely forgotten it. For once, Aaron was glad Q was fucked up on lord knows what drugs. Since Q's birthday, Aaron pretended like he didn't tell Q he was in love with him...even though he absolutely was. It scared him a lot more than he liked to admit. That didn't mean he didn't want to spend a lot of time with Q still though. He was happy that the musician had asked to come along for Christmas, and he liked the little group they had assembled for the day. Aaron his lover grab onto his hand and felt himself start to panic a little bit. He didn't want to be rude and let go of his hand, but he also didn't want to confuse Des. He was thankful when the other male let go as soon as his daughter ran up to him. "Merry Christmas, Dessy!" He exclaimed, scooping her up and giving her a kiss on the cheek. "Wanna meet my friend? He got you those Christmas gifts. His name is Quentin and he'll be celebrating Christmas with us today." The blonde gave Quentin a big smile and a wave and started talking his ear off about one of her Christmas presents. Aaron set her down so that she could walk over under the tree and show it to him, talking all about how she played with it and what it did. Aaron stepped to the side and encouraged Q to go sit near her. He watched with a full heart, trying not to smile like a love sick dumbass.

Quentin. Quentin did remember Aaron telling him that he loved him. But honestly, he didn’t know if that was just an in the moment thing or not. This though... being here with him and his daughter on Christmas. It felt like real love. He wasn’t going to question it though, not today. He was already feeling way more shy and anxious than he wanted to. His heart melting into a big pool of sappy mess when he watched Aaron pick up the little girl and introduce them. “Hi, Destiny” he said softly. The excitement in his eyes matching the energy radiating from Aaron’s daughter as she seemed to take well to him. His attention was so fixated on every word Destiny had to say he almost forgotten where he was. He turned to look at Aaron as he encouraged him to sit near her and he nodded his head. God, why was this so easy? He felt like he belonged for the first time in a very long time, and truthfully, he thought he might cry. He took a seat sitting Indian style in front of the tree and reached out to pet the little girls stuffed elephant. “I’m so glad she’s your favorite. She told me that you’re her favorite too. So that’s why I had to get her for you. So that you two could spend Christmas together” he smiled. Turning back to look at Aaron with so much happiness in his eyes it was almost unreal. “So... what did you get for your daddy?” He asked the small girl before watching her duck under the tree to grab a small gift. “I bet whatever it is it’s gonna be his favorite too” he encouraged her. His mouth dropping open in surprise when she hugged him just for saying those words.

Aaron When Aaron’s eyes met Quentin’s he was filled with such happiness, he could hardly breathe. Here was Quentin, the man he loved being so good with the most important person in his life. He sat down on the couch across from them and watched like a proud father. Des was so good with people, just like him and Alison. She really was the best of the two of them. He had kind of been waiting for this moment for a while. He talked his ear off about how much he loved Des and how great of a kid she was. Now, Q finally got to see it first hand. Not only that, but Destiny’s opinions of people were very important to Aaron. She was smart of a six year old, and if Des didn’t like them...then something must be wrong with them. At least that was how he rationalized it. Des handed her the bag that Alison had helped her wrap a few days ago. “What do you think, Des? Should I open it now?” He smiled widely at her because he already knew the answer. She squealed with excitement as she ran to hand the bag to her father. He pulled out an adorable ornament that she had made for him at school a couple weeks prior. “It’s beautiful, baby. I love it. Thank you so much.” He gave her another kissed on the forehead. “Will you hang it on the tree for me?” He asked her, handing the craft to her so that she could pick a spot on the tree for it. He looked over at Q as she did with a sly smile.

Quentin. It wasn’t hard to tell that Quentin was absolutely loving this. He always had a deep love for kids, and meeting Des had been something he wanted to do for quite some time now. She meant so much to Aaron, how could she not? She was a splitting image of him. All the way down to the way she talked and carried herself. Of course, he could see Alison in her too, that smile and her kind heart was nothing less then her mother. But Quentin knew Aaron had a kind heart too. He tried to act tough and keep up his hard exterior. But the more time Q spent with him, the more he could see right through to who he really was. Watching him interact with his daughter was nothing less then heart warming. That smile on his face, and on hers, this was pure love. The kind of love Quentin wished so deeply he could have one day. As impossible as that was for him, this moment was one that would stay with him forever. He turned around wrapping his arms around his legs as he sat on the floor. Watching the exchange with pure happiness. God, if he smiled any bigger his whole face would probably get stuck like that. He met Aaron’s blue eyes with his own as Des turned back to the tree to hang the ornament, and quickly shifted his attention back to her as she showed it off to him. “Wow.. now that’s gotta be the most beautiful ornament I’ve ever seen. Without a doubt” he complimented. Shifting his eyes back to his lover as he pulled his bottom lip between his teeth and then got back onto his feet. Lifting Des up to help her get the perfect spot since she asked so sweetly and then taking a seat beside her father. The rest of the gift exchanges seemed to go by quick. But honestly Quentin was thoroughly living on cloud nine. This was turning out to be one of the best Christmas’s he’s had in a really long time. It was hard not to get so emotional about it all. But as soon as they had a minute to be alone in Aaron’s room, he was climbing into his sweater desperately wanting to be close to him.

Aaron Watching Quentin be so good with his daughter, really made his fall more in love with the man in front of him. Maybe telling Quentin how he felt was a good idea. He had known Quentin way longer than Alison had known Lemon and they were already each being so forward with their feelings. Why couldn't Aaron do the same? Honestly, he was scared. He was grateful that things ended so well with Eden and that they were both able to stay close through it all. But with his other ex...his first love...things didn't end so well there. He wasn't a great person either. He was money hungry, selfish, and driven by greed. He probably had enough money to get half of new york city's homeless population out of poverty and he didn't. Did he actually deserve to be happy with someone like Quentin? Someone so kind, selfless and pure. He came out of his head when Des sat down next time and kissed her on top of her head. The gift exchange always made Aaron so happy, and this year he was joined by some really close and special people -- which made him even happier. He cleaned up all of the wrapping paper that Des threw on the floor and tug Quentin into his room at Ali's house to sneak away for a second. He looked down at Quentin and he climbed into his big sweater, not doubt stretching it out, but Aaron didn't care. He just wanted the younger as close to him as possible. Merry Christmas, Quentin." He hummed softly, as he rubbed his back gently.

[ashes-and-ashes]

Birthday Part 1

A bit of backstory to this fic:

So tomorrow (July 15th) happens to be the amazing Aly’s birthday! Seeing as she is one of the most incredible people ever, I decided that I was going to write her a birthday fic.

Of course I had intended for it to be pure fluff, but my evil brain doesn’t work like that. After an hour, I seemed to have 2808 words of angst, with very little fluff. And (despite Aly being the Princess of Angst) I was not sure if she wanted such depression on her birthday.

So, I split the story up! Here is the first bit of angst, and I’ll post the fluffy bit tomorrow. The fluffy bit is purely dedicated to Aly, and I’ll write an incredibly long and gushy post about her tomorrow. However, here’s the first angst and depressing bit - hope it’s okay!

@withrewings

~

Sirius was going to explode.

It was March 4th, a mere 6 days before Remus’ birthday and Sirius still hadn’t managed to produce anything suitable for his present. He had started drawing in January, convinced that three months was enough for him to create something good enough to give to Remus, but the days had rolled by and suddenly Sirius was left with a sketchbook of half-finished drawings and a looming sense of dread.

He winced, bending back over the page, ignoring the shiny charcoal film covering the side of his hand. His fingers ached from grabbing onto the stub, his back sore from being hunched over the paper for hours, but Sirius didn’t really care. He bit his lip idly, tracing the curls of Remus’ hair, the tilt of his chin, the hollows carved into his back and arms -

“Goddamn it!” With a snarl, Sirius stood, interrupting Marlene’s rant about the Slytherin Girls. He hurled the sketchbook to the ground; the back cover bent with a slight crunch as it hit the floor, the pages flipping open to reveal the sketch he had just been working on. “God-fucking-damn it!”

The others barely looked his way - Sirius’ outbursts were common enough now that everyone had gotten used to the swearing and yelling. It was late at night - they were the only ones in the common room. James bent down, scooping up the book with one hand, eyes still fixed on Marlene. “Go on Marls. What did you say to her?”

“More like what did you do to her,” Dorcas muttered. “No way that girl made it out in one piece.”

Marlene flashed a quicksilver grin. “I hexed her nose off. Completely. Transfigured it into the tiniest mushroom attached to her ugly face. God, they were so mad.”

James let out a laugh, throwing his head back; in the background Sirius noticed one of the twins (Either Fabian or Gideon - the light from the fireplace was dim, and he couldn’t quite pick out the details on their faces) hand a galleon to Benjy, who was sitting on the mantle. “Priceless.”

Peter leaned forward, eyes wide. “How long do you have detention for?”

Marlene shrugged. “Detention will last 3 months. But the tales will last forever. I’ll be a goddamn Hogwarts legend.”

“You’re already one,” Lily assured her. She tapped James on the shoulder. “Prongs. Want to give Sirius his book back?”

With a smirk, James held the book out to Sirius, the covers still open to reveal the half-finished drawing. “Oh right. I forgot.”

Sirius snatched the sketchbook back, flipping him off. “Oh, shut up.”

They were all meant to be discussing Remus’ party (Remus having gone to bed ages ago) but the hours had ticked away and they had planned absolutely nothing. Sirius wasn’t surprised - nothing ever seemed to work when everyone got together, except for a whole heap of snogging between Marlene and Dorcas, and James and Lily.

He scowled down at the sketch in his lap, the half-finished outline of Remus, silhouetted against a huge moon, the curve of his spine mirroring the constellations twinkling above him. “Jesus Christ,” he muttered, the words bitter in his mouth. “I’m so screwed.”

Lily looked surprised. “Why? That one is beautiful, Sirius. He’d love that.”

Sirius shook his head, violently flipping to another page. “No! This one is...is…”

Dorcas raised an eyebrow. She was sprawled in a huge chair, legs dangling over the side; Marlene gave her bare legs a long look before winking at Sirius. “I think this one is pretty.”

“God.” Sirius groaned, slamming the book shut. “It’s romantic. It looks like we’re dating or something.”

Benjy snorted, swinging his feet from where he was perched on the mantle. “Aren’t you already?”

Sirius flipped him off; he could feel blood rising to his cheeks. “I’m pretty sure Remus is straight, Benj.”

“Only one way to find out,” Kingsley muttered; the room erupted in laughter.

“I say,” mused Marlene, “That you should draw him in an intimate position.”

“Maybe with a collar,” Fabian called, “And chains, black leather and fishnets - “

Dorcas laughed. “A gag!”

“You should draw me in that!” Benjy yelled over the laughter. “I’d love to be drawn in collars and chains and black leather fishnet stockings.”

“Oh shut up,” Sirius said. He scowled, staring down at his hands; there was a scar shaking across his index finger where his mother had broken it once. “You guys are absolutely useless.”

“Says the guy without a present,” Lily muttered. Sirius stuck his tongue out at her.

Gideon rolled his eyes. “Look,” he began, “Remus is...Remus. He’d love anything you drew him. Stop over complicating it.”

Sirius spread his arms out wide. “Over complicating is what I do, darling.”

Benjy snorted. “I’d prefer that you do Remus.”

He was definitely blushing now, Sirius could feel the heat rising to his cheeks, spreading over the back of his neck like a flood. He scowled again, running a hand through his hair; it was already wild and tangled, paint and God knew what else caught in the dark locks. “You know what?” he said, then paused. “I was going to say ‘Screw you all’ but I reconsidered because I knew you would turn it into something about screwing Remus. So go eat a bowtruckle.”

He could hear Benny’s voice carry, even as he turned the corner and started up the stairs. “Why don’t you eat Remus?”

Sirius scowled. “Fuck off Benjy!”

~

Sirius glares down at the paper.

He knew he wasn’t going to give this one to Remus anyways. It wasn’t even the drawing that screwed it up - the paper was crinkled from where he had grasped it, the lines smudged and faded, too intense and too bold. It turned everything into hard lines, points instead of curves, edges instead of sweeps. He knew he was wasting time, drawing something that he would never, could never show Remus but it lessened the tightness in his chest, made it easier to breathe.

He had 2 sketchbooks. The first one had a red cover, and he used it for all his doodles. Pages of simple things: wand tips and goblets, candles and flowers, spellbooks and cauldrons and hundreds of unicorns. He brought that one everywhere, kept it in his school bag, was always doodling in it until the book was finished.

The second book was black, the cover heavy and Sirius always kept this one under his bed, because who wouldn’t know? This book contained everything - a boy on his knees, broken fingers, a single burning piano key. Scars, hundreds of them, rendered in perfect detail, all torn flesh and blood and bones, the lashes seared into his brain. He drew fingers with scar marks and backs with claw marks and even the broken, bleeding figure of an angel with its wings sawed off.

And Remus. This book was filled with Remus as well, all the shattered, beautiful parts of him, all the scars and cuts and marks. He drew Remus crying, and Remus screaming and sometimes he drew Remus kissing him.

He stared down at the drawing now, splayed on the page in front of him. He had hesitated when he drew him and Remus, but once he started he couldn’t stop. The charcoal spilled out of him, bleeding onto the paper, and everything was the same. Two boys kissing, the desperation clear in the clenching of their fingers or the arch of their spine, mused curls and closed eyes and scars like brushstrokes on their skin and Sirius couldn’t have stopped himself if he tried.

He wondered, sometimes, what Remus would say if he saw him, if he peeked into that black sketchbook, saw every dark crack in Sirius’ heart laid bare. Everyone had their secrets, he supposed. His were just more open than most.

There was a rustling sound from behind him; Sirius quickly flipped the page. It was late at night, the room filled with the sounds of people breathing, dreams spiraling into the air. The nightmare had woken Sirius up, the fractured visions of his parents and Death Eaters, and he had spent the rest of the night drawing, filling up even more pages in the sketchbook. He glanced down and started; the lines he had made were so dark that the colour had bled through the page, leaving smudges and streaks and the delicate tracery of lines carved into the page in front of him. He hastily closed the sketchbook, pulling the red one onto his lap, opening it to a random part in the book. Damn. This one was of Remus too, a idle study of him sleeping, his curls framing his face with gold.

He was about to turn the page again when the curtains on his bed flew open. It was as if his drawing had come to life; Remus stood there, golden curls forming a messy halo around his face, his eyes half lidded from exhaustion. He yawned, running his hands through his hair. “You okay?”

Sirius shrugged. “Sure.”

Remus frowned. “You’re always so closed off. It’s like you’re hiding something. Keeping something locked away.”

Yeah, my love for you, Sirius thought, but he didn’t say anything. He shifted, pulling the covers up around him, focusing on his breathing. Remus shot hi a concerned look.“Nightmares?”

“Yeah.” Sirius’ hands tightened around the blankets. “I’ve been up for awhile.”

Remus regarded him thoughtfully, then pulled the curtains wider. He slid into bed next to Sirius, gently rearranging the blankets until his warm legs tangled with Sirius’ cold ones. “It’s like lying in bed next to an ice sculpture.”

Sirius forced a laugh. Remus was too close right now; he was certain that he could feel his heart pounding. “It’s like lying in bed next to a furnace.”

Remus laughed, the sound warm and rich. God, Sirius could drown in that sound. He shifted over, giving Remus some more room, twisting until his head was tucked under Remus’ shoulder. He closed his eyes, taking a deep breath, the air smelling of wool and pine and clean cotton -

“Shit,” Remus said. “Is that me?”

With a jolt, Sirius opened his eyes; the book on his lap had fallen, the pages splayed open to reveal the sketch of Remus sleeping. He swallowed, hard, fighting to keep his voice steady. “No. It’s the fucking Duke of Alytown.”

Remus punched his shoulder. “Shut up.” With a shaking hand he reached over, picking the book up carefully, tilting it so the light fell on the pages and illuminated the drawing. “Did you...did you draw this?”

Sirius resisted the urge to roll his eyes. His heart was hammering triple-time in his chest, like a huge drum - he was certain Remus could hear it. “Nope. I just fall asleep with drawings of you on my lap all the time. I actually commissioned Snape to draw this, you see - he would creep into our room at night and - “

“Jesus.” Remus’ mouth hung open, his eyes wide as he turned the drawing back and forth. This close Sirius could see his eyelashes, golden against his skin, so fine that it looked as if they were spun from spider silk. “God. This is beautiful, Sirius.”

“You’re beautiful,” Sirius said, then quickly snapped his mouth shut. Smooth, Sirius. Real smooth you fucktard.

Remus laughed, more in shock then anything. “Me? I’m not...I’m not…”

“Beautiful?”

Remus looked down at his hand. “Yeah.” He pauses, clearly struggling with something; his mouth twisted into a bitter smirk before he continued. “Just look at me. I’m...I’m ruined. I’m scarred all over.”

Sirius bit his lip, hard. In his mind he saw his back, the lashes standing out like lines of silver, raised and thick and livid. He swallowed, hard. “Sometimes the cracks are the most interesting part of a sculpture.”

The barest edge of a smile ghosted over Remus’ face. “But it’s still ruined all the same.”

If only you could see, Sirius thought, If only you could see how beautiful you are, how perfect you’ve become. If only I could draw you the way I see you.

He coughed; with a steady hand he tore the sketch out of his book, handing it to Remus. “Keep it,” he said, then shook his head at the shocked expression on Remus’ face. “It’s yours now. I was going to give it to you for your birthday, but I’ll just whip up another drawing.”

“You sure?”

“Yeah,” Sirius said, and a beautiful, dazzling smile raced across Remus’s face, making it look like the sun had coated him in strands of liquid gold. Beautiful, Sirius thought, and his heart gave a painful twist in his chest.

“Thanks Sirius. But I don’t…I don’t need this, you know. All I want is...is you, I guess. Your heart. I want your heart, Sirius. That’s all.”

Sirius looked down. “Anything for you, Re.”

~

He couldn’t stop himself from drawing Remus.

The black sketchbook was open on his lap again, a fresh page blank and empty. His hands were dark, coated in the shiny-grey of graphite, his clothes covered in the stuff. He had been drawing for ages without taking a break, his eyes dropping from exhaustion and yet he allowed the sketch to bleed out of him, splattering across the page.

He was almost done the black sketchbook, had only a few pages left. Usually a book would last him 6 months, but he had filled half the book in less then 3 weeks. It was like he was an addict, thirsting for something he could never have, lightning and thunder and rain echoing through his veins. He couldn’t stop himself now, even as he continued filling the pages, Remus staring up at him from every angle.

Sirius took a shaking breath. It felt like he was underwater, drowning in his feelings for Remus, threatening to blow him apart with every gasping inhale of air. He set the pencil to the paper, letting his mind take over, the curve of Remus’ eyes gradually starting to fill the page.

He remembered the first time he had seen Remus, 5 years ago, standing in the compartment of a train as the sun went down over the hills. He was with James, wild and rebellious because for the first time ever he was free, when the door had opened and Remus had stepped into the compartment.

There was something different about him, even back then, some ethereal way that Remus moved. He remembered how the light had hit Remus’ face in just the right way, casting his features into shadow, making him look like some beautiful bronze statue and all Sirius could do was stare.

There was always some part of him that had loved Remus, but it really hit him in 4th year. He had been playing Quidditch, backlog against the setting sun, and he had looked down and seen Remus in the stands and his heart swelled up and he couldn’t breathe. He knew it then, while hurtling through the sky on his broom, knew he would have given up anything to make Remus happy.

He was drawn out of his thoughts by a sharp crack; he had pressed down so hard on the pencil that it had shattered, pieces skidding all over his sheet. Sirius scowled, glaring down at the page - there was a boy on a broom and a boy on the ground, the light hitting them until it looked like a spotlight, wind whipping their hair around them. He swore, staring down at his hands - it was so obvious. All it would take was for someone to look at his book to know what he felt towards Remus. He couldn’t burden Remus with that, the unrequited feelings of a shattered boy. Remus had already been through far too much - Sirius couldn’t heap another load onto his shoulders.

But what if he did? The thought rose up unbidden. What if he did like you?

His mind flickered back, sorting through the memories of the year - the Train, Remus’ hands tight around his neck. The Christmas Feast, sitting together under the cold half moon. January, grasping onto Remus’ fingers, the desperation in his eyes as he began to change. Valentine’s Day, a single chocolate, a whispered conversation. Sirius, I…

“I what?” Sirius had said.

Remus shook his head. “Never mind.”

So many moments, so many hidden touches, and Sirius’ heart was pounding because what if? What if there was a chance?

He was gripping the sketchbook tightly, so hard that the cover was digging into his palms, scoring lines across his palm. Remus had told him what he wanted that night, didn’t he? I want your heart, Sirius. That’s all.

“My heart,” Sirius said, out loud to the wind. Slowly, his hands tightened around the sketchbook.

He knew exactly what to give to Remus tomorrow.

[mirkwoodshewolf]

Aladdin Queen fic John Deacon x reader Chap. 8; Love is formed

*Author’s note*

Okay everyone here it is, my most FAVORITE SONG OF ALADDIN AND MY FAV. PART TO WRITE. And since I love both versions of this song SOOOO much I leave it up to you all on what you want to listen to. Whether its the OG or the LA version I’ll have both links up for you all to enjoy. So I’ll shut up now and let you all get to it and OHHH CHALLENGE ESP. TO US GIRLS!!! DON’T. SING. JASMINE’S PART!!!!! Since you the reader are basically Aladdin’s part you’re gonna have to sing the male part while Deacy takes over the female vocals hehehe. So hope you all enjoy that challenge :)

OG version

LA version

Taglist:

@plethora-of-things​

@psychosupernatural​

@waddles03​

@ixchel-9275​

@georgesgentlyweepingguitar​

@queendeakyy​

@simonedk​

@kairosfreddie​

@geek-and-proud​

_________________________________________________________

After the party Freddie and I were in my guest room with my pacing around and Freddie brushing out his hair with his disguise now dropped.

“He just—walked out.”

“Perhaps I might’ve gone too far with the splits, but darling let’s be honest here. That dance was probably the best thing you will ever do in your entire life.”

“I was pretty good wasn’t I?” I bragged still remembering the look on that bitch Priyanka’s face as she tucked and run. But then I thought back to John, I mean nothing seems to impress him and I thought all royals loved treasures or women fighting over them. “But nothing seems to impress him.”

“I know. Not gems or jams or jewels. I mean if I can’t impress him, I wonder who can?” I looked out of my balcony to see just across from my balcony was the Princes’ balcony.  I saw John with Roger and Jim and the three of them went back into the room.

“What are you saying Freddie?” I asked as I turned towards him.

“I’m just saying maybe just try being yourself.”

“I already told you, he has to marry a Princess.” I sighed as I turned back towards the Princes’ balcony. “If I only just had a few minutes alone with him.” Then an idea came into my mind. “You have to get me over there?”

“That an official wish?” he asked me as he shook out his hair and turned towards me.

“No it’s more of a—favor. For a friend.”

“Sorry dear, genies really don’t do favors.” He said as he turned back towards the mirror and observed himself. “Plus we don’t really do friends.”

“But I thought you said you never had a friend like me.”

“See that’s where you’re wrong (y/n). I said you never had a friend like me. See when you’re a genie, people always want things from you it’s just—awkward.” He placed a turban on top of his head and modeled it wondering if it looked good on him.  That’s when I got a clever idea.

“Yeah, you’re right. Besides it would’ve involved distracting a—certain animal keeper to the Princes.”

“Oh-ho I see where this is going you clever minx, I hook you up, you hook me up, right?” Freddie said as came up in front of me with a wide smile while I just grinned back at him.

*3rd Person POV*

Now back in his disguise Freddie appeared at the Princes’ door and extended his hand outwards to the door, then using his magic he made three knocks sound off before they opened to reveal Jim.  He was surprised to see the advisor to the Princess and Freddie greeted him with a smile.

“Good evening.”

“How did you get past the guards?” questioned Jim.

“Oh I uhh—I snuck past them.”

“All 48 of them? Even the ones that spit fire? Impressive.” Jim said in a blunt tone.

“Well—that’s what people say about me.” Freddie chuckled nervously. Jim however just gave him an unimpressed look. “Oh that—that came out arrogant didn’t it? I mean I’m not overly arrogant or a prick I just I don’t know why I said that. Uhh….” He then saved himself by bring out from his back, a small bouquet of roses.

“They’re lovely.” Jim awed. “He’ll hate them.” Jim then suddenly spoke with a blunt matter-of-fact tone. “Tell the Princess that the way to Prince John’s heart is through his mind.”

“Actually these are from me—to you.” Freddie said. Jim’s face softened and he said softly.

“Could you excuse me for one moment?” Jim said as he reached for the doors and slowly closed them.

“No, wait I just….” Freddie tried to save himself but the doors closed in on him before he could say another word.

Jim remained calm as he slowly turned towards the Princes before finally letting go and silently pumping his arms up and down in victory.  John, Brian and Roger also mouthed out a cheer for him.

Meanwhile from the hallway Freddie turned his head angrily muttering to himself.

“‘Not that I’m overly arrogant’ really Freddie? That made you sound like a right up arsehole basically.” The doors opened up and Freddie turned back and smiled at Jim.  Jim took the roses and said.

“My favorite, I plant these all the time back home for the Princes garden. You may continue.”

“I was noticing of how—pleasant the evening is. At the party I noticed you noticing…me how—pleasant I am. Right, how is this going?” Freddie stammered awkwardly before asking cautiously.

“It’s clumsy. But in a…..charming sort of way.” Jim answered him honestly.

“A stroll.” Freddie blurted out. “Would you like to take an evening stroll with me?”

“Just the two of us? On purpose?”

“Yes, as people.” Jim was silent once again before whispering softly.

“Just one more minute.”

“Okay.” As Jim closed the doors once more, Freddie muttered, “Why the fuck would I say that?” as the doors fully closed he turned aside and softly growled “That woman is contagious!”

Inside the room, Jim tossed the bouquet over to John who caught it and he gestured and mouthed out ‘go’ to Jim.  Jim opened the doors once again and he said to Freddie.

“I’ve never really been on a stroll, how does it work?”

“Follow me my dear and I’ll show you.” The two men then walked side by side of each other, their hands briefly rubbing off against one another.

*My POV*

“I’m happy Jim finally found someone while we were here.” I heard Prince Brian say from the balcony.

“Yeah, he seems to be happy with Ali’s advisor. He looks like he’s a lot of fun, maybe I’ll ask if he’d like to go for a ride in the gardens.” Prince Roger spoke.

“You know you just wanna interrogate the poor guy in case he hurts Jim.” John’s voice spoke up.

“I just care about Jim’s wellbeing. I mean remember that one arsehole that used him to get to us, mainly you Brian.”

“I’d—rather not talk about that thank you Rog.” I then decided to make my presence known so I knocked on the corner of the wall and I heard John say.

“Come in.”

“Actually I’m already in.” I said cautiously as I came around the column pillar.

“Don’t move!” John warned me.  That’s when I saw both the lion and lioness stand up and growl at me, but the lioness seemed more protective as she looked like she was ready to attack me.

“I just came back because you left so…..”

“How did you—get there?” he asked curiously. I closed me mouth and said the first two words that came to my mind.

“Magic carpet?” he just scoffed at me.

“I, for one, am glad you’re here though Princess Ali.” Spoke Prince Brian as he stood up holding some sort of creature in his hand.  It looked kinda like a mongoose of sorts but it wasn’t like anything I’ve ever seen before. It was big, probably the size of a domestic cat, it had grey fur for the back but black on its underbelly, around it’s face was white with black lines along the eyes.

“You are?”

“Yes. For hours I’ve been trying to find Ababwa but it doesn’t seem to be on any of my maps. Care to show me?”

“Well I…..”

“Yes. I would also like to know just why your kingdom isn’t on any map.” John spoke up as he crossed his arms.  As I took a step forward, the lioness took a step forward while the male lion softly roared. “Now Nala. You and your brother can’t eat the princess tonight she needs her legs for dancing.”

“Did I go too far with the split?” I asked as I finally began walking forward while the two big cats were distracted.

“A little. Ababwa?”

“Yes.” I spoke loudly before finally muttering to myself, “Freddie I need to find Ababwa, they have maps, lots of maps.” I cleared my throat as I finally stood by the two princes and picked up the map and held it over my face in between me and John’s face specifically. “Ababwa, of course.” I remained silent for a bit before finally saying again, “Ababwa.”

Finally I saw a cartoon drawing of Freddie on the map in his genie formed and he waved at me.  He then began flying about and I followed his frantic movements as his genie tail began drawing random kingdoms at the center.  Along a banner it read ‘WEMBLEY KINGDOM.’

‘Not funny Freddie!’ I mouthed at him.  He then waved another banner in big bold letters that read JUST BE YOURSELF, his drawing scowling at me with his arms crossed. ‘Fred enough of…..’ John’s hand came on top of the map and he bent it over as he told me.

“Have you lost your country?” oh Allah say something you idiot.

“What no? No! No not at all its……” I set the map down trying to stand between the map and John. “It’s right here.” I pointed in a random spot. His brow rose skeptically as he said.

“I don’t think so, see I was with Brian when he was—” he looked down and low and behold Freddie had drawn the fake kingdom of Ababwa and gotten rid of the other drawings he had done, even his drawing was gone.

“There it is!” I exclaimed cheerfully.  John and Brian hovered over the map and Brian said.

“How did I miss that?”

“Well I mean who needs maps anyways? They’re old, and useless and add no practical value.” I said as I took the map away from the desk.

“Maps are how we see the world.” Brian said as he set down his pet.

“But I thought a prince could go anywhere?” I asked. All three of them had solemn faces as Roger finally spoke up.

“Not these princes unfortunately.” John especially seemed to look the most solemn and heartbroken.

“Well, if you’d—Prince John I’d gladly oh!” I felt a brush up against my leg and a soft bite on my shoe.  I know it wasn’t intentionally at my foot per-say, but I did feel small teeth nibble into my skin.

“Ahh Lulu naughty girl!” Prince Brian scolded as he came up and picked the creature up.  “Sorry, she’s always been a curious little badger but I’ve never seen her act like this before.” Then just before Brian could catch her, she went between my legs, her medium sized body knocking into my heels sending me towards the ground.

“Oh dear Princess Ali are you…..” just before Brian could help me up, the male lion stood between him and I.

“Simba! Nala!” Roger proclaimed as I was now surrounded by two massive big cats.  The female lioness standing right over me growling right into my face for a bit till it suddenly softened.

The male’s face also softened and soon the female slowly licked my face from my forehead down to my chin.  The two of them softly bellowed a soft roar as I said.

“Thank you…..Nala.” I scratched the side of her face and she leaned into my hand and accepted my scratches while Simba came up and plopped right down beside me and raised his paw up and wrapped it around my neck which ended up bringing me down and forcing my face to be buried into his dark mane.

“Incredible.” I heard Brian mutter.  Once I had my fill of lion snuggles and managed to break free of their loving grips, I adjusted myself and said as I walked out towards the balcony.

“I was saying you should really see these places. I mean there’s a whole world beyond books and maps. Do you want to?”

“How? There are guards at every door.” John stated bluntly as he looked at me.

“Who said anything about using a door?” I said as I walked towards the railing.

“What are you doing?” John’s tone turned into an alarmed tone as he came down the steps.

“Sometimes my English Princes, you just—have to take a risk.” I said as I swung over to the other side of the railing before finally letting go.

*John’s POV*

We all let out a gasp as Princess Ali just fell to her death.  All was quiet as I looked from side to side.

“Please tell me we didn’t just witness a suicide.” Spoke Roger.  Suddenly slowly rising up sitting perfectly fine and alive was Princess Ali on top of a—no way they really do exist? I thought these things were just stories.

“Is this…..” I asked as I walked up to her.

“A magic carpet? Yeah.” She scooted closer to the edge of the carpet and said to me, “Do you trust me?” wait a second. Did—did she just say what I thought she said?

“What?”

“Do you trust me?” she said again as she extended her hand out to mine.  I turned towards Brian and Roger and they nodded and gestured for me to go on.  I turned back towards Ali and gave her my hand as I said.

“Yes.” She then helped me onto the magic carpet. The two of us sat down on top of the magic carpet and as Nala came up towards the balcony bellowing out a whine, the carpet took off flying over the entire city.

It was then I heard Ali beginning to sing, and my god she—had the voice of an angel.  The only other voice to sing so sweetly like that was my mother.  We flew through the tight alleyways of the Agrabah city and I couldn’t help but be in awe of the city at night.  When I turned back towards Ali, she had a small plum petunia in her hand and she held it out to me.

I took it and sniffed it as it’s delicate scent tickled my nose as we continued to fly through the rooftops of the city now before flying high into the sky.  Going up and over the clouds before slowly diving back down through them, like whales breaching in the ocean.  Even going as far to fly across the moon.

*Ali*

I can show you the world Shining, shimmering, splendid Tell me, my prince, now when did You last let your heart decide?

I can open your eyes Take you wonder by wonder Over, sideways and under On a magic carpet ride

A whole new world A new fantastic point of view No one to tell us no Or where to go Or say we're only dreaming

        I then began to feel the song in my heart as we continued to fly high over the clouds.  Soon the magic carpet even handed us some armful of clouds for Ali and I to hold.  

Never did I dream that I would actually get to hold a cloud it was more—fluffier than I imagined.  Kinda like feeling stuffing.

        As Ali’s cloud broke apart, I released my cloud go as we spun around a cloud making it into the shape of whipped cream topping before doing a loop-de-loop.  We now flew alongside a flock of cranes and I couldn’t help but extend my arms out, it was then we were briefly tossed off the carpet before being caught again, doing somersaults as we went higher and higher into the diamond lit sky.

*Me*

A whole new world A dazzling place I never knew But when I'm way up here It's crystal clear That now I'm in a whole new world with you *Ali*

Now I'm in a whole new world with you

*Me*

Unbelievable sights Indescribable feeling Soaring, tumbling, freewheeling Through an endless diamond sky

A whole new world

We flew straight down from the sky and through the clouds to see a river coming up.  I closed my eyes but she took my wrists and gently took them away from my eyes as we flew right over the water before going back up towards the sky to see the city of Agra.  The Taj Mahal standing so proudly just ahead as we flew over it.

We then flew far out of the city towards the open desert to see a herd of wild horses running freely.  As we got closer to them, I stroked the youngest stallion underneath his chin and he whinnied while we flew on ahead of the herd. *Ali*

Don't you dare close your eyes *Me*

A hundred thousand things to see *Ali*

Hold your breath - it gets better *Me*

I'm like a shooting star I've come so far I can't go back to where I used to be

*Ali*

A whole new world *Me*

Every turn a surprise *Ali*

With new horizons to pursue *Me*

Every moment red-letter

Now flying over the Indian ocean we both looked down to see the dolphins swimming up to the surface doing their breaching technique, the moon bouncing off the water gave it a beautiful glow and as I looked towards Ali, the moon also gave her an ethereal beauty, especially from her raven hair to her bright (e/c) eyes.

We turned to face each other as our song came to a close and I could feel my heart beat just a little bit faster at seeing her eyes shine like the stars under the moonlight. *Both*

I'll chase them anywhere There's time to spare Let me share this whole new world with you

*Ali (Me)*

A whole new world (A whole new world)

That's where we'll be (that’s where we’ll be) *Ali*

A thrilling chase *Me*

A wondrous place *Both*

For you and me

We leaned up against each other, my head on top of hers and her head resting against my shoulder as my hand gently took hers and they intertwined with each other’s.

After seeing the world we stopped right back into the city of Agrabah to see the people having a celebration of their own in the middle of their city.  A large bonfire was at the center, drummers banging on the drums in rhythm while the people danced in a circle and cheered.  I looked over to Ali and took off my white vest and draped it over her shoulders to keep her warm.  She turned to me and smiled in gratitude.

“Of all the places you’ve shown me tonight this is by far the most beautiful.”

“Sometimes you just have to look at it from a new perspective.” She answered.

“It’s them. The people. No matter what skin color they are, they make it beautiful. And they deserve to have an ally who knows that. I don’t see how that ever could be me.”

“Because it should be you.” She answered.

“Do you really think so?” I asked as I turned to face her.

“Does it really matter what I think?” she said as she tucked a strand of my hair behind my ear, much like how (y/n) did a couple nights ago.  

But it—it couldn’t be her. Could it? So I decided to test something out.

“You know,” I slowly moved my arm around her waist. “It’s a shame that Abu had to miss this.”

“Nah, he hates parties, besides he’s……” she stopped talking and I saw her face fall. So it was her. It was (y/n)!

“I knew it, you are (y/n)! Why did you lie to me!?” I said as I backed away from her.

“John I’m sorry.” She pleaded.  No she doesn’t get any mercy from me.

“Did you really think I was stupid? That I wouldn’t figure it out?!”

“No, no you’re not stupid I was just….”

“Tell me the truth. Is your name (Y/n) or Ali?!”

“I’m Princess Ali.”

“So (y/n) wasn’t real?”

“No she is! Because I’m also (y/n). I—just use the name (y/n) for when I need to disguise myself amongst the commoners. To—escape the pressures of palace life.” I just looked at her with a skeptical glare and I asked her.

“Why didn’t you just tell me the day we met?”

“Well I mean you know—royalty going out into the city in disguise it sounds kinda strange don’t it?” well she’s got me there. I mean after it was my idea that Roger and I dress as commoners to escape the palace just shortly after we had arrived.

“Not that strange.” I said as I gently nudged her shoulder with mine.  “I’m sorry I snapped at you. Is just I can’t believe I didn’t recognize you.”

“It’s okay. People just don’t see the real you when you’re royalty.” Don’t I know that much.  We looked at each other and that’s when I returned the favor and tucked a strand of hair behind her ear.

“We should—” she started off.  I looked down at her and she continued, “We should head back.”

“Already?” I sighed and that’s when Ali had the magic carpet take us back to the palace.

We arrived back at my balcony and I could see the lights were off, so I’m hoping Brian and Roger are asleep by now.  Ali helped me off the magic carpet and handed me back my vest and that’s when the magic carpet lowered itself down.

“Goodnight, Princess Ali.”

“Sweet dreams, Prince John.” She said softly with a soft smile.  Slowly the two of us began leaning forward when suddenly she was pushed right up into my face.  Well I guess I’ll have the thank that magic carpet tomorrow.  I then leaned the rest of the way and softly kissed her lips.

She kissed me back and it felt like an eternity before the desperate need for air became necessary.  I pulled away before giving her a warm smile and turning my back on her to walk into our room.

*3rd Person POV*

After the kiss and John turned back into his room, (y/n) extended her arms outward as she whispered.

“Yes.” Before falling back onto Carpet who flew away from the balcony and (y/n) let out a giggly, whooping cheer.  However she was unaware of Iago who had witnessed the entire thing.

“Fascinating.” He crooned darkly.

Back in her room, Carpet stopped right at her balcony where Freddie now in full genie mode was drinking a cup of vodka and he said as he saw (y/n)’s face.

“Ohh I love that face. Good date?”

“The best.” She answered with a reply.

Meanwhile in the Princes room Roger and Brian who were still awake while Jim was preparing John for bed, John said to them.

“But it was better than the best.”

“Wow Deacy, who would’ve thought you had it in you.” Roger praised.

“However the thing was Roger we’ve actually met her.”

“Wait what do you mean?”

“He even figured out that I was (y/n). You said that wouldn’t happen.” (y/n) told Freddie.

“Well genie magic is really just a façade. Eventually real characters are always gonna show up. But that’s a good thing, right? Now he knows.”

“Well…..” she dragged out.

“Wai—hold-hold up now. What?”

“She told me that she was only pretending to be a thief to escape the stress of palace life, but she’s really a Princess.” John explained to Roger just after Jim finished brushing his hair. “Thank you Jim, you can retire for the night.”

“Thank you Prince John. Good night boys.”

“Night Jim.” Said Brian.

“G’night Jimmy boy” Roger called out as Jim left their bedrooms to go to his sleeping quarters.

“And you believed that?” asked Roger.

“I think so.” John said as he got into his bed.

“(Y/n) darling, eventually you are going to have to tell him the truth.”

“Eventually I will tell him Freddie. But anyway, how was your stroll with Jim?”

“Oh no, no, no you are not turning the conversation around dear.”

“I’m not I’m genuinely curious. How did it go?” Freddie looked at me skeptically but when he saw that I wasn’t lying to him, he proceeded to tell me everything.  He seemed to really like Jim, and heck maybe by the end of it all, maybe they could end up together.  Sure it’s frowned upon but love is love and that’s how everyone should live their lives, right?

Brian turned to his side to face John and asked him.

“You don’t think that maybe you want believe her because you have to marry a Princess, but can’t marry a thief?”

“No Brian. I believe her. I do.” John said affirmatively.  He looked up at the ceiling before sighing softly and shutting his eyes to rest for a new day.

[thesunflowerinyoureyes]

Lust and Greed -Michael Gray

Summary: Where Michael has a really big crush on the reader and shows it the wrong way - making her hate him. Michael says to her face that she shouldn't go out with so many men, making her angry. But on one particular night, she starts seeing his words in a different light...

A/N: Poorly written but I did my best : ) -ALY

You wanted to rip your hair out as you stared at the piles of work Tommy had left for you to do that day. Your glasses that sat dangerously at the end of your nose, your unbuttoned dress showed that you were not in the mood for talking to anyone today. As you delved more into your work, the more you wanted to scream. This bullshit doesn’t even make any sense. How the hell am I suppose to get this done today? You put your head on the table, throwing your glasses onto the desk. After a couple seconds, you brought your head off of the table - the only motivation going through your head: If I get this done today, then I won’t have to do it tomorrow. As you picked up your pen, you started scribbling on the paperwork, your eyes skimming but meticulously looking through the words. You were getting on fine until the door of your office slammed open, revealing the person you really didn’t want to see today. It’s Michael fucking Gray. Fuck sake. The only guy that doesn’t knock on the door like a normal human being. You didn’t even bother looking up from your paperwork, knowing that his handsome face had a well known scowl on it, just for you. Yeah it was true. You did find him extremely handsome. But his annoying and extremely disgusting manner towards you didn’t make him an exception for you to be kind to him. Silence filled the room as you carried reading the papers right in front of you. Ignore it, (Y/N). It might go away if you ignore it. Sadly for you, that wasn’t the case. 

“Oi (Y/L/N) How long are you going to ignore me like this?” He asked in the tone he only used with you. His normal velvety tone to the other women was never shown to you. Instead he gave you a low, menacing one. 

“I’m not in mood for talking, especially if it’s with you” You snapped at him, your eyes never leaving the paperwork. Just leave me alone for fuck sake. He didn’t respond to you but he did something which made you wished you looked up at him from the minute he walked on. The paper that you were reading was suddenly covered by a pile of other papers. You looked up in confusion, seeing a smirk tug at his lips. You can’t be fucking serious.

“What in the actual fuck is this?” Was all you managed from the anger boiling inside of you. He cocked an eyebrow at your balled fists - something that you did unconsciously. 

“Some lovely paperwork for you to do. This is has to be done by tonight." He spoke in an amused tone but you weren't finding this funny. You practically jumped out of your seat to close the door. After slamming the door, you turned to look at Michael, who was now leaning against your desk.

"Look, Michael, I don't know what the fuck your problem is with me but I definitely not going to be able to finish that paperwork off tonight. I've got places to go-"

"You're always going places (Y/N) I could care less" Michael said, cutting you off. You scoffed out loud by the man's ignorance. This little bitch.

"Excuse me? Me? Always going out? You must be stupid to think that I'm anything like you" You spat in disgust. But you instantly regretted it. You'd never seen a face dropped so quickly in your life. The once smug look on his face, had now been replaced by a stone cold look. He grabbed your waist a little harshly, pulling you towards him. A gasped left from your red lips as your face was inches away from his. His hot breathe fanned your face as he looked, for a split second, at your lips and then your eyes.

"Listen here, (Y/L/N). I'm only saying this to you because you work with me. Some of those men that you call "friends" are not always what they seem to be. The way they swoon over your looks and particularly at your body is probably something that you like to have. The attention. The way you act practically screams it. But as your colleague, I think it's my job to tell you, for your own benefit, to stay the fuck away from them. Understood?" Michael locked eyes with you intensely for a couple of seconds, before letting go of your waist and walking out of the door. Michael had never been the one to scare you - not in the slightest. But after that little fiasco, you couldn't help but feel a bit of anxiety rising up in your stomach. He basically called me a slag. He thinks I'm a fucking prostitute. You swallowed the lump in your throat and looked at the stack of the paper he left for you. You inhaled a sharp breathe and pushed the stack off your desk in a angrily manner.

By the time the end of the day came, you miraculously had actually finished the work that Michael had given. That'll show his bitchy ass. You smirked at the thought of Michael's face when you were to hand in the work. You grabbed the papers and headed to his office. You knocked. There was no answer. You knocked again but no response came from the room. You walked in and saw that Michael wasn't in his office. So you went and dumped the papers right in front of his desk, leaving a note saying "Happy now?" You looked back at your work once again and left the office to finally have some fun. Or that's what you thought it would be.

You had arrived at the Garrison and saw your group of friends already drinking away. You saw a guy sitting next to your friend that you didn't recognise. They didn't tell me that they were bringing someone. Especially as hot as him. His jet black hair was slicked back, as his eyes that were ocean blue like Tommy's had wrinkles forming by the laughter that was escaping his pink, plump lips.

"Hey guys" You said as you sat down, flashing a smile at the guy.

"You're finally here, you slag! God knows why you fucking work there! They always make you work over time!" Your friend shouted, completely intoxicated by the Irish whiskey that she was consuming. You rolled your eyes playfully, grinning at your friend.

"And where is that you exactly work Miss...?" The handsome man spoke up while he locked eyes with you. You felt your heart racing, his alluring eyes making you feel attracted to him.

"It's okay. You can call me (Y/N). I work at Shelby Company Limited. And you are?" You responded while you brought the whiskey up to your lips, looking at him through your long lashes.

"It's Liam and it's interesting how such a ravishing woman like yourself work for dogs like them" He replied with a chuckle, eyeing you up closely. The last bit of the comment wasn't something you were pleased but you just shrugged it off. Michael is a bitch.

After some light flirting with Liam and gossiping with your friends, you went into the back room to grab some more whiskey. You heard someone open the door and lock it behind them. You turned around to find Liam standing inches away from you.

"Oh hello Liam" You said sweetly, smiling at him. He smiled at you but didn't utter a word. Instead he closed the gap between you two and pressed his lips onto yours. You immediately fluttered your eyes closed, moving your mouth in sync with his. His hand travelled downwards on your back while his other hand tried to unbutton your dress. Ew what the fuck? You broke away from the kiss and moved back from him, anxious and annoyance bubbling together.

"What the hell are you doing?" You barely managed out, as you stared at him wide eyed. He simply scoffed and smirked at you. He slowly made his way to you, every step of his making you take a step backwards - until your back hit the wall.

"Who the hell's gonna save you now? Your pathetic little friends are out there, pissed drunk and there's only you and me" He whispered in a husky way, pinning your wrists to the wall. You tried to hit where the sun don't shine, but his legs had trapped your thighs together. Oh shit. This can't be real. You whimpered slightly when he kissed your neck in the most grotesque manner, moving downwards. Please. Anyone save me. Please just save-

You were knocked out by your mental pleas when the door slammed opened. There stood the guy who you thought was the least person to come and save you. There stood Michael who had his necktie undone completely, his fists balled and a wild look on his face.

"Let her go right now" He said in an raucous voice, his voice livid. You watched Liam roll his eyes and he let go. But instead, he grabbed you harshly by the arm, making you moan quietly in pain, as he made you stand next to him in front of Michael.

"Or what?" Enquired Liam in an amused voice.

The next few moments took a bit of time for your brain to process. One minute you were staring at Michael's raging face and the next moment he tackled Liam to the floor, punching his face. You watched as Michael continuously punched Liam, a pool of blood starting to stain the floor. You stood there, your mouth agape to what the hell was happening. Get him off of him. Before he kills him.

"Michael stop it now!" You shouted at him as you tried to pull him off by grabbing his arms. Michael obliged to your touch, surprisingly, and got off from the man. You gasped at the bloodied face of Liam, blood dripping from his mouth.

"Michael...we can't just leave him like that we have to-" You were cut off by him grabbing your wrist and dragging out of the back room. He carried on dragging you out of the Garrison and pulled you into his car. None of yous spoke a word as he sped down the road, reaching his house. The uncomfortable silence was something that made you want the earth to swallow you up. He got out first, slamming the door with force and opened your one. He grabbed you again and dragged you into his house. Well I'm dead. When he shut the door of the house, Michael's inner temper was released. He took a sharp inhale of breath as he turned around and looked at you. You didn't dare look at him, as you felt the anxiety rushing towards your stomach.

"What the fuck did I tell you (Y/N)" He whisper shouted angrily, his hot breath fanning your face once again. You didn't look up and neither did you respond. You heard him exhale a long sigh. When can I go home man? You flinched when he lightly but firmly grabbed your chin to meet his eyes. You were surprised to see Michael have a gentle look on his face and a softness in his eyes.

"He didn't hurt you did he?" He spoke softly, as he examined your face. You shook your head slightly and then dropped your eyes back down to the floor. He let go of your chin and did another unexpected thing. He gently wrapped his arms around your waist, resting his chin on your shoulder. You felt your heart skip a beat, a bit of blood rushing to your cheeks. You slowly wrapped your arms around his body as well, leaning into his touch.

"Are you okay (Y/N)" He mumbled into your hair, his velvety tone melting your heart. But then it did hit you. He was right. Everything he told me today was true. You felt tears start to form at your eyes, which then left you to have soft sobs escape your mouth. Michael broke off the hug and cupped your cheeks.

"It's okay now (Y/N). You’re safe with me.” He said while wiping away the tears running down your cheek with his thumb. You inhaled a sharp breath and looked at him with blood shot eyes. 

“You were right Michael” You said in a raspy, broken voice. You saw the confusion in his eyes and then you watched his face drop, registering what you meant. He opened his mouth to say something but you beat him to it. 

“You were fucking right and everything you said in my office today was a fucking foreshadow. And it’s all my fault” You chocked out, trying hold back another sob. You opened your mouth to say something else but this time Michael beat you to it. He crashed his lips onto yours, a small moan escaping from your lips. You flutter your eyes closed, as your wrapped your arms around his neck. I can't believe I'm kissing Michael fucking Gray. He slowly broke away from the kiss, his tongue trying to savour the taste of your lips. He leaned his forehead against yours, your heart beating wildly and your cheeks feeling as if they were on fire.

"What I said today was bullshit okay? I didn't mean anything I said. I just have a very hard time expressing how I actually feel...my damn past has created me a cold, foolish idiot. I hate that. And I also hate how all these bastards crave any bit of your love because they don't fucking deserve it. I love you, (Y/N) (Y/L/N). I've loved you ever since the day I saw you walk in with Thomas, wearing that light blue dress and your loose curls making you look like a fucking angel."

You looked at him with slightly wide eyes, never ever expecting those words to escape from his mouth. You tried to process what he just said to you, not giving him a reply.

"(Y/N)? Please give me a reply. I know I'm a fuck up but-" You cut off his rambling with pressing your lips onto his softly, Michael immediately responding. When you broke away from the kiss and opened your eyes, you looked into his. His eyes glistened with happiness and a sort of vulnerability. You smiled at him and bit your lip, taking in his features. But the minute you bit your lip, you saw his eyes have a sort of glint. A glint of lust and greed.

"Don't bite that fucking lip, (Y/N)" He said in a flirtatious way, a smirk tugging at his lips.

"Or what Michael?" You questioned seductively, wrapping your arms around his neck.

"God you make me go crazy" He whispered as he hungrily kissed your lips. You responded with much passion, as you wrapped your legs around his waist. Well. I guess it was a good thing...

[modosphere]

Now I’m Standing Alone: A Dara Drabble

Surprise! Bet you didn’t think this was coming out tonight...

Apologies for it taking so long, but its been a long, kind of difficult and infinitely more exhausting week and this (fingers crossed) will be the hardest one to have written - so I should be better with the others!

Remember, there are other instalments to come... And like Tinkerbell, I need applause to live, so please let me know what you think (ask/submit boxes preferably, that way I can save them!) and hopefully it’ll keep the creative wheel turning for a faster follow-up ;)

Happy reading! And I hope you all like it!

Bonus: shout-outs to my returning anons (hey guys), the anons who’ve been asking after/encouraging me with this drabble and @franklyineedcoffee for entertaining the mess that was my creative process when writing this!

- gawaine xo

The Kensington Hotel South Kensington, London 2041

She looked super hot.

And that wasn’t Mara being biased - objectively speaking, she looked smoking. Better than she’d ever seen herself look. The kind of hot that warranted winking at your own reflection and taking an obnoxious amount of selfies.

It was… A shame. A shame that it would… Go to waste, she guessed? Like, yeah, okay, people were still going to witness the hotness in question - a damned honour, really -, but not enough to be… Appreciated.

The wedding tanking was more likely to be the topic of conversation, come the end of the night.

Samara thought she’d feel… More conflicted. More lost. The (supermodel) reflection in the mirror… Was a stranger. Samara Zafar, to-be. Someone who didn’t exist. Who never would.

She felt a surprising amount of pride at that reflection, and as she tilted her head slightly, Mara gave herself a small, albeit sad, smile. It had been a good run. One Hell of a performance. In an odd way, she was sad to see it over - she’d made friends, had a family. Jesus, she’d even had Danyal Zafar be the closest thing she’d ever had to a best friend and whilst that was, wow, wow, so truly fucking pathetic… That would be gone, too, in a few hours. Maybe even less than that. One thing she and Dany hadn’t planned, was the exact timeline of the evening.

Mara checked her phone for the time - the car would be arriving soon - and so, placing it back down and turning to her reflection again, Mara surveyed herself one more time for all last-minute checks.

Her wedding outfit wasn’t the most conventional, which, given the true nature of her and Dany’s relationship, Mara found funny more than anything else. Instead of the full, traditional outfit of dark red decked with gold, Mara had opted for a slightly modernised version.

Her skirt was white and decorated with red stones and gold thread, flowing elegantly from the waist and swaying slightly every time she moved; and the blouse was the opposite, a velvet, burgundy affair with long sleeves, decorated intricately at the ends with more gold thread and tiny pearls. The neck was high and the rest of the blouse plain, allowing the focus to be the heavy, layered gold necklace hanging from her collar.

All of her jewellery was like that, heavy and majestic - a large, sun-shaped ring on her hand, a matching hair piece pinned to the side of her head to hide the bobby-pins. And with Mara’s full lips, high cheekbones and straight nose all thrown into high definition by some excellent makeup artistry, and her loose, dark brown curls pushed gently to one side… Mara looked like some kind of sexy Asian medieval princess, with a twenty-first century twist. Mara snorted happily to herself. Given the Zafars’ standing as social royalty, maybe that wasn’t so shocking.

The best part of the outfit was something she couldn’t even see - the fact that the blouse was backless, aside from a small pearl clasp at the base of her neck securing it in place.

And yeah, sure, there was the option to clasp it more, but given Mara’s bra size being completely at odds with the size of her shoulders, all fully clasping it would achieve was Mara asphyxiating, and that was of no help to anyone. Anyway, it was… Sexier. It was hidden anyway, behind a curtain of Mara’s hair and then the scarf pinned over her head, white and gold like her skirt. But Mara knew it was there, and Danyal was probably going to seize when he saw it -

Samara’s smile immediately disappeared and she looked away from the mirror, blinking back sudden tears. What was she crying about? Being stupid? Running away with her vanity?

It didn’t matter how good she looked. It didn’t matter what Dany thought - she gripped the table, her black nails digging into the wood -, because he wasn’t going to see it, nobody was, because by this evening, everyone would be applauding the new Mrs Zafar and that wouldn’t be her.

Which was fine, whatever, fine. Fine. It wasn’t like… She’d never wanted to be that, that hadn’t been the plan.

What if your plan was wrong?

“Don’t you fucking dare.” Mara snapped at her reflection, pointing at it angrily. “No. Shut the fuck up. You - you made this decision, you-” Mara sighed, her eyes temporarily closing in resignation. She couldn’t look at herself for the next part. “You made it clear, you told him-”

Except had she, really? It was on odd feeling, to feel as if you knew someone - their thoughts, their intentions, the very words that were about to leave their mouth - without having proof. Without truly knowing.

That was why she hadn't entertained… It was why she’d been so abrupt with Danyal. Even if he had just been talking in hypotheticals - and that was a possibility, she didn’t know -, she couldn’t think like that. Not… Now, not so close, not when her head was in such a mess. Not when she was filled with so much doubt.

Not about the wedding. No. Of course not! How could she? She couldn’t be…

It was fear, that was all. Fear of the unknown. Fear of committing a homicide, when her aunt inevitably started gloating about her failed marriage. Fear of finally being… Free, without the consequences.

Mara had wanted that for so long. To be free, independent, able to make her own decisions, without slamming the few doors open to her closed. But now that it was here… It was weakness, probably. Or complacency. She was filled with doubt because she’d gotten so used to her gilded little cage, that anything beyond that was terrifying! It was the brainwashing.

She was fine. She was. She knew where these… Fake doubts were coming from and she was handling it, it was… Fine.

Sighing to herself, Mara leant forward in front of the mirror, checking her makeup. It was made to look like she had some sort of natural glow but, of course, this close, it looked anything but. It was all about the eyes - perfect eyebrows, perfect eyeliner, perfect eyelashes and perfectly hidden eyeshadow (from a distance). The makeup artist had told that she’d wanted Mara’s lips to look like “an overdose of pomegranates” and Mara could only assume she’d managed it, because she didn’t know what else to call the matted colour on her lips, apart from maybe attractively bruised, which… Didn’t sound alluring.

One thing Mara could appreciate for certain, was the paradox of the whole thing. The face of an innocent, glowing young bride, the outfit of a princess, a super-sexy braless outfit once her veil was removed. Talk about split personality personified.

Of course, looking like some kind of regal portrait was costing Mara… All sense of comfort. She literally felt pinned taut, and even blinking caused something to pull. The top of her head felt like some kind of bridge support, thanks to the various clothes and jewellery items pinned to her skull - and thank fuck the skirt was meant to trail slightly, because in heels, she would’ve toppled over after the first step. She was wearing white Adidas trainers underneath her skirt instead.

She was allowed to take shortcuts! After all…

“It’s not like it’s your real wedding.” Mara joked to her reflection, not sounding particularly convinced. Good to know she could rely on herself for a pep talk.

Her phone beeped - and Mara caught the message that quickly flashed onscreen. It was her uncle. He was on his way up.

I don’t know if I can do this.

Nope! No psychoanalytical bullshit today!

Jogging slowly on her tiptoes and stretching slightly, careful to make sure the weight of her scarf didn’t snap her neck in half, Samara closed her eyes and took long, slow breaths.

“You’ve got this.” She told herself, before staring at her reflection. “You have got this. Get your shit together, bitch, freedom is on the horizon.”

There was a tap at the door.

“Samara!” Her uncle called through the door. “It’s time to go!”

“Coming!” She shouted back - before staring, wide-eyed and terrified, at her reflection one last time. The next time she’d be in this room… It’d be all over. “Shit. Yes. Okay.”

She was about to enter an art gallery full of important, influential, powerful people… And lie to them. Lie to them about who she was, about being in love with her fiancee, about wanting to get married, and then lie some more by saying she was heartbroken to not marry her fiancee, after his ex stormed the stage, demanding his love and attention.

It was fine. Cool. No problemo.

… Shit.

*

Liaquat Ali Khan Airport Islamabad, Pakistan 12 Days Ago

Dany twirled the warm, white box between his fingers, staring disinterestedly at the small crowd huddled over by the Arrivals door... Before looking over to the small, ignored hallway in front of him. Still empty.

It felt like just yesterday that he’d been here with his family - and Mara’s - after the engagement. Dany’s mouth lifted into a small smile as he remembered the look on Mara’s mamaani - aunt’s - face, at seeing them suddenly jump out of the car and disappear for a few hours. Mara had told him afterwards that her cousins had said she’d almost had an aneurysm.

It was his last day in Pakistan before the wedding. Technically, it should have been the day before - but with Samara landing for her final fitting before the wedding, Dany thought it’d be… Nice. He was only travelling over the border to India; first to see how Ari’s preparations for the walimah, the after party, were going at the haveli in Punjab; and then onto to Delhi, to leave with Raj for his stag.

It was weird to think that the after-party Ari was planning would be for a different bride than the one whose name was on the invitation.

Because you’re stupid.

Dany paused, frowning slightly, and stopping his fidgeting.

Dany refused to pay much mind to the little voice in the back of his head, or the uncomfortable squirm that tended to come with it. It had been happening… Too often recently, and for no reason at all. It wasn’t worth the effort.

He glanced around again, sighing to himself. The small shop selling freshly brewed tea in the corner, the racks of picturesque post-it cards, the announcement boards, the various corridors leading off into different parts of the airport, the hallway…

The young woman walking down it towards him, a security guard at her side.

Dany quickly rose to his feet - and seeing her smug smile as she stopped where she stood, raised his eyebrows as part of their silent, secret language.

Why are you looking so pleased with yourself?

One eyebrow raised, Samara nodded to the white box. She’d had a similar one, when she’d welcomed Dany and his family during their first trip - and she was touched, if not teasing, about the sentimentality of it all.

As Dany walked towards her, he could feel her eyes scanning him from head to toe; his slim-fit, light blue trousers and matching tunic, the collar undone and the sleeves rolled to his elbows.

He didn’t understand that Samara was thinking back to when she’d been waiting for him; how she’d seen him with messier, fluffier hair from the heat just like today, but stretching and his sunglasses threatening to fall onto his nose from his forehead as he did. How she’d almost laughed at how adorable he’d looked.

But as the distance closed between them, Danyal fell back into habit - and once again, he found himself mentally acknowledging that there were prettier girls in the world than Samara Kayani. More naturally beautiful girls, better groomed girls, more fashionable girls. In fact, the women Dany usually found in his social circle were as close to aesthetically perfect as a human could be… Whereas Samara? She didn’t fall into that category.

Oh, Mara was beautiful. Anyone with eyes could see that, and that was Dany being objective. She had to be. Even with a fake bride, the famous Danyal Zafar was expected to have nothing less. But Samara’s face was riddled with imperfections - and that was what took Dany by surprise each time, because on anyone else, that was all they were. Imperfections. But on her… They weren’t.

Samara had a perfectly straight nose, cutting a side profile like a piece of art; but because of it, it was almost too perfect when seen head on, too… Proportionate. It was almost unsettling.

Her lips were full and pink, but the bottom lip was fuller, giving her a constant pout, however accidental. When she wasn’t wearing makeup - like most days she wasn’t going out, including this one  -, you could see the tiny beauty spots dotted across her face. One on the right side of her nose, near the middle, another one on her cheek on the same side. She smiled with her teeth, which were white and straight, but not perfectly straight - when Dany had once asked why, Mara had scathingly informed him that she’d never worn braces, in a way that clearly told him to shut up - and her skin, fairer than Danyal’s or any of his siblings’, easily became flushed and rosy after just a few seconds in the sun. Her eyes were wide and large and brown, framed by long and thick dark eyelashes, almost too doe-eyed for Dany to comfortably accept. Too... Innocent.

He saw these imperfections every time, analysed them, tried to see them in a new light - and always came to the same conclusion: that it was a part of Mara’s undeniable charm. Samara’s face was beautiful and glamorous, yes, but it was raw, and real, and with imperfections that made her seem more… Imperfectly perfect than her airbrushed counterparts.

But it didn’t mean that Danyal understood it - how she could exude that, so effortlessly. At first, he’d studied it, but now, it was just… There. It was all he saw. One look at Samara’s face and you knew her and, if you already did, you truly knew her. She made you feel safe and happy and seemed like the most pleasant and loveable person in the world… Until she opened her mouth and sassed you into next week, oftentimes doing so in a way that had you smile at being roasted more than anything else.

He could see it now, as she stood in front of him; in jeans and a tunic covered in funky geometric patterns in bright colours, her hair tied into a ponytail and her sunglasses propped on her forehead. It was… Effortless. But the security guard holding her bag still looked smitten, stealing glances at her as if she were a painting instead of a person.

It wasn’t creepy, the security guard’s look - it was just… Filled with awe.

When Samara wanted to be, she was a pretty friendly person.

Dany’s expression became a mix of amused and confused as Mara’s expression immediately became arrogant, upon facing him.

“Why’s your nose up in the air?” He asked in Urdu, laughing slightly. Mara pretended to toss her hair back dramatically.

“Because clearly I’m such an important, glamorous, special person that I’ve resurrected chivalry from the dead, to have one guard offering to carry my bags and you bringing me food.” Mara grinned.

With a sigh, Dany turned to the security guard.

“Thank you.” He nodded, shaking his hand - and, Samara knew, slipping him a tip with it. The guard nodded, handing over Samara’s duffel… Before offering Samara a polite, but happy smile, before leaving. Samara waved. “Your friend?” Dany asked dryly.

“Everyone is my friend, with the exception of you.” She said happily, plucking the white box from his hands. She thought for a moment. “And possibly your mother.”

Dany decided to ignore that last comment.

“Wait a second,” Dany hesitated, as Samara began to walk towards the main doors. He looked around. “Where’s your uncle?”

Dany motioned for her handbag - which Samara dutifully handed over -, but Dany’s eyes narrowed in suspicion as she avoided his eyes, fidgeting with the box. In a way, Dany was glad she hadn’t opened it yet - inside was one of Mara’s favourite desserts, jalebi, a dessert made of sugar, flour and light spice that presented itself as bright orange, oddly shaped pretzels. Samara was obsessed. Once the box was open, he was probably going to be ignored until she realised she’d inhaled it all.

Realising Samara’s lack of an answer was an answer in itself, Dany began to mutter under his breath, the two of them resuming walking.

“He promised you.” Dany said irritably. Beside him, Samara shrugged, prying open the box. “You’re getting married in a few weeks-”

“As far as he knows.” Samara muttered, breaking off a small piece of jalebi.

“Exactly.” Dany huffed. Upon reaching the front doors, the warm Pakistani air hit them, humid and smelling of petrol - and Samara followed, as Dany quickly found the Awans’ chauffeur in the crowd. “He said this was the time you were going to spend together - hi -”

Mara offered the chauffeur a polite smile, waiting until he’d taken her bags from Dany and they were following him out to the car. Then, deliberately quietly in the hopes her voice would be lost under the loud traffic of the car park -

“He bought me jewellery instead.”

Dany paused in the street, his eyes narrowing… And even though Mara rolled her eyes at his melodrama, she smiled slightly. It wasn’t shocking that Danyal had a protective streak - Mara had seen enough of him with his siblings and Raj -, but it could still be… Surprising, when aimed at her. Even if she’d seen it before.

“Oh, relax.” She sighed, slipping her hand underneath Dany’s arm. Although disgruntled… Dany sighed, allowing her to lead him to the car. She fed herself with the hand tucked under his arm. “It was pretty jewellery and Mamaani probably had heart failure when she saw it-”

Dany said nothing, removing Samara’s arm out from under his as they crossed the road. His hand hovered protectively over the small of her back instead as they crossed and, upon reaching the car, slipped easily into it, the doors already open for them.

Dany tried to… Shake it off. It wasn’t Samara’s fault that her uncle was a weak asshole and her aunt an insecure cow. Dany thought it was ridiculous, and stupid, and unfair that Samara’s family treated her like some kind of… Leper, especially when she and her cousins were so close - but clearly, it wasn’t something Samara wanted to discuss, so Dany shut up for the sake of her mood.

“Honestly, you need to stop being so sensitive.” Samara sighed - but happily, Dany noted, as he only grunted in response. Dany nodded as the chauffeur shut the door behind them. “And anyway, it’s probably a good thing - we need to… Talk strategy, one more time…” Dany raised an eyebrow as Mara hesitated. “You know, before.”

Danyal looked down, grimacing slightly as his stomach… Did that thing again.

… Whatever. Mara was right. They had to focus - if it all didn’t go to plan next week, all of their planning, months and months of lying… It would all be for nothing.

Dany flexed his fingers as his stomach twisted even harder than before.

“That’s why I brought you a snack, I guessed we’d have work to do.” Dany mumbled. Once the driver was in the car, Samara happily offered the box - and although he declined, he smiled warmly at Mara as he shook his head. The charm offensive wins again. Dany sighed to himself. Considering this was meant to be a pleasant reunion, he suddenly just felt… Tired. “I thought we’d visit the office-” He began - only to stop and raise an eyebrow, upon finding Samara struggling to push her sunglasses from her nose onto her forehead without using her sticky fingers. Apparently, they’d fallen.

It was like watching a bunny trying to put on a hat.

Pointedly, Dany removed the glasses from her nose and gently placed them atop her head. “You okay there?” He asked sarcastically.

Mara simply shot him a happy smile, before nodding. As ridiculous as she was… Dany couldn’t help his smile back.

“You know,” She said conversationally, between bites. “I can’t believe this is our final trip to the office? I mean… It’s here, you know?”

His smile faded.

They glanced at each other then, and for a moment, Dany thought he saw - well, something he surely couldn’t identify, because that would mean acknowledging it within himself. No, he was just being… Sentimental. Pakistan had that effect on him - although culturally there was often little difference, owing to the drastic differences in population, Pakistan was always… Quieter. More peaceful.

“I hadn’t thought about it like that.” Dany said honestly. “Our last trip to the office.” He repeated quietly.

“I meant the wedding, too, but… Yeah.” Mara mumbled.

There were a few seconds of silence.

“So, where is everyone?” Mara said quickly. She hated silence. She and Dany… They didn’t do silence.

“Ari’s still in India with Raj, making sure the walimah stuff is all ready. She’s flying down tonight and then I’ll take the jet back to meet Raj in Delhi.” Dany blinked as Samara snorted quietly. Suspicion immediately coursed through him. Was she unhappy about his stag plans? He’d cleared them with her beforehand, they’d agreed it was a good idea… “What was that for?”

Samara shrugged. “What?”

Dany fought the urge to roll his eyes. He knew her better than that.

“The-” Dany did a casual imitation of the look of judgement that had briefly passed across Samara’s face. “- that.”

“Nothing.” Dany knew she was lying. He knew her, remember? Not just at face value. Plus, judging by the all-too-innocent lilt of her voice… Mara wasn’t going to be able to keep her opinion to herself for much longer. “I just… I hope Divvy appreciates all of the effort Raj and your sister are going through.” She shrugged, before frowning. Dany stared, unsure of what to say. When had Divya become a part of their conversation? “God. Have you actually worked out a way to warn Raj yet, or are you still going with just hoping to dodge his punches until he tires out when the shit hits the fan?”

Dany knew she was just trying to distract him - but it worked, and Dany grimaced at the thought of yet another difficult decision. He was Aman Zafar’s firstborn. He already had a whole lifetime of difficult decisions to make.

“Dodging punches.” He said reluctantly. They were peeling out of the airport car-park now, and if it weren’t for the bumper-to-bumper traffic and rising fumes, Dany would have cracked open a window. The air in the car felt thick and heavy. “Anyway - I… Have time. They’re all too busy with their conspiracy theories.”

A thickness that suddenly felt… Uncomfortable, as Samara laughed - before beaming at him with a carefree smile.

Dany fidgeted with his collar, ducking his head down to hide how Samara’s smile was infectious - and how confused he felt at being so quickly infected. Wow. He really was being sentimental. If he’d realised Islamabad was going to have such a profound effect on his ability to think logically, he would have left yesterday.

“Right.” Samara nodded, oblivious to Dany’s sudden discomfort. She didn’t need to ask who they was - she already knew; Pixie (because once Mara had found out Annie hated that nickname, was she ever really going to call her anything else?), Zarina and Raj. “That we’re secretly falling in love and the stars are aligning and that everything will work out happily ever after in the end?”

Dany hummed, making Samara laugh some more. It was a nice, tinkling sound.

“I think you and your ex have a different happy ending in mind.” She remarked, shaking her head as she returned to the box for some more jalebi.

It wasn’t the first time they’d joked about the others’ obsession with their romantic futures, because it was funny, that they were all so desperate for fiction to become fact. Maybe even a little concerning, given how Samara and Danyal didn’t hide how difficult pretending to be a couple could be for them.

But this time… Although Dany pulled the right muscles and had made the correct noise, it wasn’t quite as hilarious as it had seemed before.

Maybe after so long, the novelty had worn off. After all, from what Danyal could gather, the basis of Pixie, Ari and Raj’s argument was that Dany and Mara hadn’t been yelling at each other quite as much. The knowledge that they all held such low standards was… Depressing.

“It’s like they don’t hear me when I tell them how unhinged you are.” Dany said dryly, a second too late for it to be truly natural. Thankfully, Samara didn’t notice - she was eyeing up the inside of the jalebi box again, finding her next chosen piece. “What, no comeback? You’re going soft-”

“No.” Samara pointed warningly, making Dany grin. “I’m just too hungry to deal with your bullshit.”

“You always say that.”

“Well, after next week, you won’t need to hear it.”

… It were as if they tried to ignore the wedding, the more it appeared - and the more it did, the more Dany wanted to throw something at its mere mention. He knew Samara wasn’t trying to be abrasive, he did - as soon as she’d spoken, it was like she’d realised what she’d said. He knew that. But right now, right here, why couldn’t they just… Be normal? Spend time together? Friends did that. Friends spent time together.

And yes, in the past, Dany knew he’d been reluctant to use that term - but it was true. What else could she be? For him to know her so well, watch her so carefully? They were friends. In fact, it was likely that Mara was one of Dany’s… Better friends. She’d been the first person he’d spoken to when everything had started with Tara; and even now, Mara was civil with Tara for his sake during wedding preparations.

Fake fiancee, yes. Fake friend? Dany didn’t think so.

He just wanted to enjoy it. The two of them, being friends, without… Anything else. Why couldn’t he just be with his friend?

There was more silence. Danyal’s smile had faded, again, at the mention of the wedding - and Mara had suddenly found herself unable to look in his direction.

Dany needed to change the subject.

“You know, I don’t think you’ve ever told me your opinion on Divya.” Dany said her name slowly and deliberately, choosing to ignore how Samara immediately rolled her eyes. She refused to call Divya anything other than Divvy, no matter what Dany said - or where they were. Of course, Divya hadn’t been the first thing he would’ve chosen as a conversation starter… But, Dany realised, it was the truth. Samara, the extremely opinionated Samara, had never actually… Shared her thoughts on Dany’s ex. Bizarre, when one considered her role in her and Dany’s supposed reunion. “I mean, yes, you’ve given me non-verbal indications - like that-”

“You don’t need my opinion.” Mara stated clearly, sudden very business-like. Dany raised his eyebrows in surprise. “And I’m pretty sure you don’t really want it, so… Let’s not.”

Dany frowned, intrigued. Samara wasn’t even looking at him - and, again, Dany knew what that meant: that she was upset, very upset. You could always tell when her lips jutted out more - they went from natural pout to just… Accidental pout.

… But why?

“Why not?” He asked curiously - and, not giving it a second thought, plucked the small piece of jalebi that had been headed towards Mara’s mouth, and placed it in his own. It was a deliberately irritating gesture - one to distract Samara from whatever surge of negative feeling she was trying to fight against -, but also entirely natural for Dany to do. Regardless, Mara’s mouth fell open at his audacity. “You’re helping us get back together-”

Their eyes widened as they realised what he'd just said - and Mara, horrified at his carelessness, looked over to the driver… Who was obliviously humming along to the radio.

“How have you not told everyone our entire plan yet?” Mara asked incredulously. Dany sighed in relief. “Do you have no filter? You’re like a child-”

“Anyway - you’re… Helping out,” Dany said pointedly. Mara shook her head. He knew what she was thinking - what use was it being careful now? “- so you must have an opinion. I want to hear it.”

“And because His Highness so commands, we must all respond.” Mara muttered, rolling her eyes… But Dany hid his triumphant smirk as she shifted slightly in her seat to face him better. “Okay, first of all-” She snatched back the piece of jalebi, half of it gone to Dany’s mouth. The box, filled with whole other fresh pieces in her lap, lay ignored. “- I’m not a goddamn charity, and I’m not Cupid. I’m doing this for myself, your… Relationship,” If the word sounded dirty, it felt even worse, judging by Samara’s expression. Her voice dropped, protected from the driver by the upbeat item song he was listening to on the radio. “- is an added bonus and secondly,” She elbowed him gently. “You can want my opinion all you like, Danu, but it does happen to be one of the rare things your surname doesn’t make you entitled to.”

Dany didn’t react to the jibe about his surname - Mara made comments like that much too often for him to care. Plus, she got on with his father way too much for her to actually mean it.

No, it was the nickname - Danu - that made him grimace.

“I hate when you call me that.” He said, frowning. “You know only my Dad calls me that.”

“A, that was the point of me saying it, and B, since when did you hate it?” Mara snorted, pulling a fresh piece of jalebi from the box and biting into it.

Dany watched as a small piece fell, which she barely caught before it fell down her blouse and into a bra. Neither one of them hesitated - as soon as it was caught, Mara threw it, Dany catching it easily with his mouth.

“Six.” She said proudly. They kept a running score. Mara never warned him of when she was going to throw food, or what - their last running score had been twelve. They’d been defeated by a cherry tomato bouncing off’ve Dany’s nose and had had to start again.

Dany let the stickiness of the sugar melt on his tongue before speaking again.

“It’s different when you say it.” He told her. “I’ve had your tongue in my mouth-”

Mara stared at him in disbelief as Dany’s eyes went round again… And, as Dany turned to check on the driver, watched as he hastily glanced away upon catching Dany’s eye in the rear-view mirror. The radio station had been between songs.

“It’s fine, we’re engaged.” Dany shrugged, seeing Samara cringe. Dany suddenly smiled wickedly. “And I’ve also had Divya’s tongue in my mouth-” At least this time, he was quieter.

Not that it made a difference.

“That’s disgusting, Danyal-”

Dany placed a hand under his chin and stared at his fiancee with full, cheeky attention.

“Tell me how you feel about that.” He grinned, reverting out of his - Mara hated to admit it - perfect Urdu accent, into English.

It was because he knew he could be more irritating in English, she knew.

“You know my feelings about it!” She replied, in English too, staring at him with exasperation.

“But not why.” He persisted.

For a split second, it felt like their eyes lingered one each other’s for… Perhaps a bit more than they should have.

But then Samara looked away, rolling his eyes, and Dany rubbed his. He was probably just seeing things. It was so easy to irritate your eyes in this heat.

Realising she wasn't planning on sharing with the class anytime soon, Dany stole the new, larger piece of jalebi Mara had been holding - knowing exactly what buttons to press.

“Will you stop-” She snapped, going to elbow Dany in the ribs. He laughed, shifting in his seat and barely avoiding contact. “And I - fine, fine. Are you sure about this?”

It took him a second to respond - he’d been focused on the subtle, rosy flush making its way up Samara’s cheeks, thanks to the humidity; but they were on the motorway now, so to crack open the window meant conversational death. Dany considered putting on the air conditioning, but it always made her sneeze - and Dany was too interested in Samara’s answer to allow for any interruptions.

“Yes, I’m sure. What’s there to be sure about?” He shrugged.

Samara’s look of warning clearly indicated there was something.

It wasn’t like they’d never discussed Divya before. They had - at great length, in fact… Though, retrospectively, it had been Dany who had done the talking and Mara almost exclusively the listening.

Listening and pretending not to count to one hundred in her head, in a bid to stay calm.

Mara’s views on Divvy Kapoor were… Strong, to say the least. When Danyal had first recounted the tale of how he’d lost his virginity, and with an odd sort of fondness, Samara had found it a struggle to not throw herself (… or him) out of the nearest window, her reaction had been that… Visceral. He’d been fifteen, apparently.

… Her nails dug into the palm of her hands even thinking about it, sticky fingers and all.

“I think…” Dany was watching her with undivided attention and an odd sort of naivety that Mara didn’t want to ruin. At least, not as… Painfully as she usually might. She wanted to choose her words carefully, but she had to be honest. It had started off as a necessity - there were too many people desperate to find something wrong with their relationship, they couldn’t afford to keep secrets from one another -, but now it was habit. And one Samara quite liked.

After all, they already knew pretty much everything about each other, and they definitely weren’t in positions to judge. It was… Nice, to be able to talk to somebody like that. And with this being their last trip together in Pakistan… And Dany giving her the courtesy of asking her opinion, as someone whose opinion he was interested in (and Dany was interested in very few opinions, beyond those of his family)… She wanted to do it properly. Kindly. For once.

“I think,” Samara began again. Dany nodded, waiting. “I think she’s a cradle-snatching piece of shit who continues to emotionally manipulate you into becoming a part of this family unit she’s convinced herself she doesn’t have, even though - and partly because - you’re part of that unit anyway.”

Shit. It had just rolled off the tongue, too.

… Well, she’d tried to be kind. Trying was the important thing, right?

Just because she found anything to do with Divya vaguely - nope, she was being kind again, she meant extraordinarily - pathetic, did not mean Samara didn’t listen. For some bizarro reason that Mara couldn’t understand, Divya felt… Resentful, at being the only adopted member of her family; and because of it, rejected Dany’s Uncle Jai and Aunt Lucky as her parents, convinced they saw her as some kind of charity case. She hated being a Kapoor, because she didn’t think she was one - not when it was a name she’d gained through adoption.

Now, the latter at least, Samara could have understood. It was a sick twist of irony that Samara knew that feeling by being - or pretending to be with - Danyal. She was a Zafar by extension, formalities pending, and treated as such. Even then, Samara’s understanding was limited. The Zafars weren’t her family, whereas Jai, Lucky and Raj Kapoor were Divvy’s - not to mention that Raj wasn’t even Lucky’s, but saw her as a mother anyway. Divya was a part of the Kapoor family unit. Dany had made that crystal clear, and she’d seen it herself. Samara, on the other hand, was just Danyal’s fake fiancee.

And to make matters worse? Divya deliberately kept her resentment away from public life, so that she could flout her family’s connections constantly - to make movies, for promotion, for her social life. That was - partly - why Samara found her so intolerable; and Mara was definitely more of a make pizza, not war kind of girl. Divvy Kapoor seemed almost inherently greedy, and used her insecurities to treat her family (and associated family members, Mara’s fiancee included) badly, but still demand more of them. As if they owed her something.

Mara simply couldn’t fathom it. If you felt like you didn’t belong, and didn’t want to feel like a charity case… Why make yourself one? Why fall to that low level of self-victimisation, something Samara couldn’t stand… Unless you were already a lying, unscrupulous, manipulative little bitch in the first place?

But she hadn’t thought it was kind to share that part out loud.

Mara had thought this all very quickly - and, only seconds after having spoken, she looked up at Danyal warily, expecting his rebuttal. Anything. A quick defence, an angry silence, an irritated comment. Something, because - of course - Divvy Kapoor was perfect and Dany Zafar was whipped.

But that isn’t what Samara got - in fact, it wasn’t even something she saw. Instead, Mara was surprised to find Dany looking…

Confused.

Confused and curious and something else that Mara didn’t know how to identify.

Dany knew he should be offended. After all, the entire reason he had initially agreed to this entire plan was for… Divya. He should be offended, pissed off that Mara could even say something like that.

But he wasn’t.

It was like someone had struck a bell somewhere in the back of his head when Samara had spoken and now, the tolls were slowly continuing to reverberate through his mind. It was dull and in the background, but it was there, a… Buzzing. One that wasn’t going away. Like it meant something.

One of Dany’s revision tips from university came from a study he’d read - that reading revision material before sleeping for the night, meant that the brain continued to process the information, and more efficiently, as the body rested. Dany trusted the method. It had gotten him through plenty of boring maths revision at Oxford.

As absolutely ridiculous as it sounded… Samara’s words… Felt like that. Like he was still processing, even though he was asleep.

He sounded like a madman.

“… Go on.” He encouraged, watching her carefully.

Mara stared at Dany in disbelief. He hated hearing negative things about Divvy - did he want them to argue?

But, realising this was her last opportunity to say what she truly felt… Mara selfishly went on.

“I think she doesn’t know what she wants, and she’s projecting that onto you.” Mara began delicately. Seeing no change in Dany’s expression, she felt slightly more confident. “I think that despite the very many flaws you have-” Samara was sure to emphasise the very. Just because she was holding Dany up to a higher standard than the likes of Divvy Kapoor… Well. Mara didn’t consider Divvy a particularly good benchmark for decency anyway, so it wasn’t really that much of a compliment. “- and I mean many… You deserve better. Your family deserves better.”

“My family?” Dany blinked. He was just… Listening, taking in the information. It was throwing Samara off. “What does this have to do with them?”

Mara winced slightly. How did she even begin to explain?

“This… Person Divvy paints herself to be, hard done by and lacking in a family unit? That’s me. I am that girl.” There was no pity in Mara’s voice - she was stating fact, not making some sort of emotional statement. They both knew it, too. “And anyone from that kind of situation, or anything even a little bit like it, would be grateful at how welcoming and loving and… Amazing your family are.” Samara shook her head, unable to hide her disdain. “Not trying to… Cut them out and demand a secret wedding, just because she’s jealous and wants to control you.”

Yes, Samara had wanted to be honest. But she hadn’t counted on being that honest.

She watched Dany as he turned to look out of the window, the jalebi both in her lap and her hand forgotten.

Dany watched the wide, grey road ahead of them, the buildings slowly becoming shinier and taller as they reached the inner city. He could still remember that stupid wedding. He could feel the itch of his clothes, the way his shoulders had been tense the entire team - how with each step he took towards Divya’s accusing eyes, he felt like he was dragging an anchor behind him.

It wasn’t exactly a fond memory.

“That’s a pretty strong opinion.” Danyal finally said.

Samara sighed.

“I don’t want to argue with you.” She told him - before almost shoving the largest piece of jalebi from the box into his hands. With a half-smile, Dany took it - he understood that Samara had… Difficulties, with putting apologies into words. “I answered the question you asked. But trust me, a girl like her should feel lucky to have a family like yours even know her name, for goodness sake.”

Dany said nothing, staring down at the jalebi. Already, it began to melt on his fingertips.

He hadn’t meant to say it - honestly, he hadn’t. He hadn’t even thought it. It just… Slipped out and maybe Samara was right - maybe it was because he had no filter, that it came out fully processed and with no warning.

“Do you feel lucky?”

Sentimentality was not an adequate enough explanation for this type of behaviour. Jet lag, maybe? Residual exhaustion from all of the travelling he’d done so far?

Mara’s eyebrows furrowed in confusion, silently asking - what do you mean?

“About my family knowing your name.” Dany clarified. Mara looked… Surprised. “Do you feel lucky?”

Mara opened her mouth to speak - but at first, no words came out.

Dany watched curiously as Samara began to fidget, breaking off a small twig of jalebi and twirling it in her hands. Just for something to do, Dany took a bite of the piece she’d given him.

“That’s different.” She finally said. “I… That’s cultivated, it doesn’t count.”

“Cultivated or not, it’s still about your feelings.” Dany shrugged, suddenly very interested in the pattern of Mara’s tunic. He focused on the edge of her sleeve, a mix of turquoise, white and orange. “Maybe it should count. You appreciate my family. You feel lucky. We’re already seventy percent there.”

They didn’t move. Either one of them. The car kept moving, the radio kept playing, the driver kept humming along - but neither one of them moved. When Dany dared to glance up, for just a second, Mara’s eyes were focused on the jalebi box in front of her.

And then it was gone so quickly, that both of them could have easily doubted whether it had ever happened at all.

Samara forced a laugh.

“That’s not funny, even as a joke, Danyal, God.” She told him, avoiding his eyes - and even though Dany had started it, even though he’d just been… Making a point, yes, that was what it was, he couldn’t quite meet hers either. “The one stable thing in my life over the past few months has been knowing this wedding is going to be a trainwreck.” She muttered, shaking her head slightly.

“But it’d be so easy.” Dany sighed - and the tension in Mara’s shoulders just… Fell away, at hearing the humour in his voice. Of course there was humour in his voice. What else could it have been? “And seeing as you hate Divya so much, you’d be doing me a favour-”

Something in Samara’s head just snapped.

“Why don’t you do yourself a favour then, and get rid of her? Because I can’t remember the last time you sounded happy at hearing her name anyway.” She said sharply.

Dany’s eyes widened in bewilderment at the sudden… Venom in Samara’s voice.

They knew each other too well, and were both too stubborn, to not look at one another when they fought. Which was confusing, because they weren’t fighting, not technically - they were just… Speaking in code.

Which was dumb, because it was a code that neither one of them could understand.

It was messed up. Samara knew that. And she felt… Strange, like someone had her throat in a vice, at how Dany was looking at her. Like she’d just slapped him. Like she’d said something he hadn’t even thought of before - and it was irritating, how… Innocent he looked, with his fluffy dark hair threatening to fall in front of his wide brown eyes, because this was serious. She just… Didn’t know why.

“And anyway,” She coughed, her voice immediately softer than before. “I wouldn’t be doing you a favour. I’d be teaching you a lesson. You’re Danyal Zafar, you’re used to having everything you want. Not everyone is willing to be that disposable.”

It was meant to come out as teasing - confident, cocky almost. Instead, it just came out as… Feeble. And more telling than Mara was comfortable with.

Sensing Mara’s discomfort, Dany almost felt ashamed. He didn’t want her to feel… Bad. He was making himself feel bad and that was always low on his list of priorities. Why was everything becoming so… Difficult?

Friends. They were… Friends. He just wanted to enjoy being with his friend.

“I’m still confused about why you think Divya is worth so little.”

Samara smiled - slightly out of disbelief, and slightly out of thankfulness. It was a crappy subject change, but at least it was one.

“Of course you are.” Mara sighed, shaking her head.

“She has issues, just like everyone else.” Dany continued, his eyes watching Samara’s every move. He didn’t know… Why he was so obsessed with having Mara’s opinion, but suddenly it mattered. A lot. Especially with the wedding so close. “That doesn’t necessarily warrant being called a piece of shit-”

Unbeknownst to many, Samara had a small fuse in head - one that didn’t allow her mouth to override her brain whenever Divvy’s name was mentioned. It worked extremely well, and Samara often thought Dany needed one. Her fuse got used more often that she would have liked, but it did a good job and Mara was proud of it.

But in that moment… It blew.

“What if it had been Zarina? Or Tara?” She demanded, turning to face him. Dany raised his eyebrows, meeting Samara’s eyes - the same ones he’d been admiring earlier - and finding them wide and angry. “No, in fact - not even them. Someone not even as close to you, what if it had been me?”

“I don’t understand-”

“If I told you,” Mara began, slow and impatient all at the same time. “That I’d lost my virginity at fifteen, to a man who was turning twenty, a man my family had trusted to keep me safe one night, what would you say to me, Danyal?” If Danyal had looked as if he’d been slapped earlier… Now he looked as if he’d been punched square in the jaw. But Mara was on a roll now, so she didn’t wait for his response - no. She ploughed on, because she was sick of this, sick of having to bite back the words she wanted to say the most. “If I told you that this twenty year old had seduced me in my bed, got on top of me and slept with me, what would you say? If it were me?”

Dany was immediately furious; at her implication, and the image she’d planted in his mind. She could see it, right alongside indignation and disgust.

But that was her entire point! Because she didn’t even matter to him, and that was the reaction he felt. Why couldn’t he see it the other way?

“I…” Dany was speechless. Genuinely speechless, not electively so like normal, because he simply couldn’t be bothered. For the first time ever, Dany didn’t have anything to say. But Mara still stared at him, eyebrows raised, because she knew he was ridiculous enough to try. “No. No, I mean - I - it’s… Different-”

“Why? Because you’re a boy?” Mara scoffed. She physically had to turn away from him for a moment, to try and compose herself. Was he deliberately being obtuse? Probably not. No, it was probably Divvy’s sharp claws still embedded in him. When Mara rounded back to him, Dany couldn’t remember the last time she’d looked so furious. Her cheeks were almost red from it. “Tell me, what’s the legal age of consent in the UK? Or the US, for that matter?”

Dany faltered.

“I… I- that doesn’t matter -”

“Or India? Or right here, in Pakistan?” She continued, relentless. Dany was… Too stunned, and too angry at what she was suggesting, to say anything more than he already had. “Let me tell you - the age of sexual consent in England is sixteen. In New York, it’s seventeen, in Pakistan it’s illegal outside of marriage and-” Mara laughed, a cold, dry sound. “- married to her you are not and in India, it’s eighteen.” Realising the insinuation, Dany’s eyes widened. “You were fifteen-”

“Stop.” Dany warned. “It is not what you’re - it was the day before she was turning twenty-one, that’s legally within the accepted four year age gap in the States and I gave consent-”

“Danyal.” Mara groaned, covering her face with her hands. Didn’t he see it? Why couldn’t he see it?! “Look - did you just hear yourself? Doesn’t you even having to know that prove there’s something wrong?!”

Dany was shaking his head before she’d even finished. No. No. She was twisting things. He’d had to ask! She’d warned him before, about asking for her opinion, but no, he’d gone ahead and asked anyway. And if she hated Divvy so much, why hadn’t she said something before?! That was all this was. Mara hating Divya…

From her perspective, it’s not hard to understand why.

He really hated that little voice.

“You’re making out it was something - something sordid.” Dany tried to explain. “It isn’t, it wasn’t-”

Samara took a deep breath. Maybe if she explained herself. Maybe if she was calmer, gentler…

Oh, who was she kidding? Subtle hadn’t gotten anyone anywhere!

“Dany. You are a British citizen. I am a British citizen. That means British law applies, whether it happened in the States or not-” Dany looked out of the window, still shaking his head. She yanked on his arm for his attention - and given the filthy glare she received, she knew it had worked. “She was over the age of majority. You were under the age of consent, it doesn’t matter where it happened, it was immoral and illegal-”

“Not in the States!”

So far, they argument - whilst heated - had been quiet. After all, nobody else knew of Divya and Dany’s affair - and it wasn’t exactly something they wanted shared.

But now, Mara’s voice rose.

“You’re worth more, for God’s sake!” She shouted - and, seeing the driver’s eyes flicker towards her reflection in the mirror, she deflated as Dany tensed. She - this was why she hadn’t wanted to speak. Because she’d known it would come down to this, what she’d been thinking ever since Dany had told her the story of how he’d lost virginity, and now that she was saying it all out loud, she couldn’t stop until he understood. “Did the legal technicalities with Zarina-”

“Don’t, Samara.” Dany warned. “Don’t even-”

“What happened to your sister was vile.” Samara continued, more gently this time - but Dany’s jaw suddenly clenched so hard, that Mara worried he was going to break his own teeth. “Wrong and awful and vile - and the legal technicalities of her case don’t change that!”

“If anyone thought something as screwed up as what you’re implying, they would tell me. Ari would tell me-”

“Dany, I didn’t mean-”

“- but maybe because you’re not used to having a family, you don’t understand that.” Dany spat.

He regretted it the moment he said it.

Helplessly, Dany watched as Samara glanced away, chewing on her lip. He hadn’t - he wasn’t - he didn’t like anyone bringing up what had happened to Ari, she knew that! And he knew she wasn’t - she hadn’t - Dany knew she wasn’t saying that Ari saw the same thing, Mara wouldn’t cause trouble between them and they weren’t even together, but…

It just - it wasn’t true. It wasn’t true! It couldn’t… It wasn’t true, it didn’t make sense, and Dany had just - he’d wanted her to stop talking about it. He hadn’t meant to be… Vicious.

“That isn’t fair.” She finally said softly, looking down at the jalebi box. Dany at least had the grace to look ashamed. “Not to me, and not to her. If Zarina knew what had really happened between you and Divya, how young you were - how can you expect her to have told you? She can’t even talk about what happened to herself, and I don’t-” Mara sighed, shaking her head. Dany forced down the lump in his throat. Samara had… Called Divya by her proper name. That had made her sound so… Serious. “And I don’t blame her, not at all, but how can you sit here and act like if she knew the truth, she could just tell you? Her big brother, that something similar may have happened to him?”

“Nothing like that happened to me.” Dany said warningly - before sighing. “I’m - I shouldn't have said what I said-”

But Samara was already moving on to the next thing - and Dany felt guilt settle on his shoulders, heavy and unforgiving. She was just… Dany knew she was trying to help. She was still trying to help. He just didn’t want to think about it.

Usually, thinking about something Samara had said would mean it made sense.

“Fine. Let’s forget I ever brought up Ari. I mean, it’s not like I’m right anyway, because otherwise Ari would know the truth about how you and Divvy got together in the first place.” Mara said sarcastically. Dany rolled his eyes. So much for his apology. “What about Kabir?”

“What about him?” Dany asked tiredly.

“If Kabir told you a girl, the night of her twenty-first birthday, slept with him when he was fifteen years old…” Seeing the driver glance at them in the mirror, Samara rolled her eyes and shuffled over slightly, so that she and Dany were now sitting side-by-side. Dany avoided her gaze, feeling… Uncomfortable at Mara’s words, focusing on the contrast of her bright tunic next to his plain one instead. The worst part was that Mara didn’t even seem angry, or venomous. Just… Desperate for him to understand. “Yeah, okay, you’d pat him on the back, toxic masculinity for the win, but - look at me, Danyal- are you honestly telling me that, in that situation, something wouldn’t feel off to you? That you wouldn’t want that person as far away from Kabir as possible?”

When Mara had told him to look at her, it had been more than a command - she’d made it happen, using her knuckles to softly tilt his head to face her. She’d avoided the stickiness of her hands - Dany knew it had just been practicality -, but it had been a surprisingly soft gesture, given their current moods.

And because of that, and the sentimentality drenching the Pakistani air and Danyal’s stupid jet lag and his weird stomach twists - all of his justifications for Samara’s argument flew away. He couldn’t even remember what they were. Because her knuckles, soft and brushing his chin - clean-shaven, for seeing her -, and the way she was looking at him, desperate for him to understand and… So concerned - his guard took a definite hit.

She knew him. She knew him more than he’d ever wanted to give her credit for - because of course she was right. The thought of Kabir being in that position put a foul taste on Dany’s tongue - one made even worse, for knowing how much it would bother Mara to say it out loud. She and Kabir were like schoolchildren when they were together - he was easily the closest of Dany’s siblings to her. She was struggling to even talk about it.

Dany sighed silently to himself.

“And what difference does it make to you, if someone takes advantage of me?” Dany asked quietly, causing the mood to… Shift. It didn’t help that it was said in Urdu; a predominantly formal language, one often reserved for poetry and romance and consequently laced in meaning, even when there had been little meant beyond the surface. Consciously, anyway. His eyes narrowed slightly. “You’re only doing this for yourself, remember?”

“If someone takes advantage of you, you deserve to know about it. And Danyal Zafar or not, you’ve earned that right from me.”

Surprise flickered across Dany’s face… As embarrassment flickered over Mara’s.

“I shouldn’t have said that in Urdu.” Mara mumbled, more to herself than Dany - and Dany couldn’t help but stare, as her eyes flickered downwards in confusion.

“Why?” Dany asked impatiently. Samara stared up at him warily. “Sounds like you mean it more?”

It came out more scathing than Dany had intended.

“I’ve made my point. If you choose to ignore it, then that’s your problem.” Samara finally said quietly, feeling… Odd, at how she was being watched. Dany felt odd to be watching. What was it he was looking for, exactly? The secrets of the universe, hidden away on her face?

Something like that.

That voice… Was really getting on his last nerve.

Danyal watched as Mara searched his face, trying to understand - before her eyes fell to her knuckles, still resting lightly underneath his chin… And turning a deep pink.

Before Dany had the chance to say anything, she’d all but thrown herself back to her seat on the other side of the car.

“How far are we?” She called out to the driver, not looking in Dany’s direction. He turned to look out of his window, alarm bells ringing in his mind. What had just happened? Under the pretence of resting his chin in his hand, Dany rubbed where Samara’s knuckles had been, as it had begun to tingle.

“Not long, ma’am.” The driver replied. Right now, Dany could barely remember his own name - let alone the driver’s. What was going on with him? “Ten minutes, max.”

Dany glanced at Samara, in order to gauge her reaction; but there was a lack of one, as Samara simply nodded, and, with a polite smile, turned to face the view out of her own window. They were in the city now - wide grey roads up ahead, with flower boxes planted between the lanes and lush, mountain greenery looming up ahead.

The white box sat between them and, from the corner of his eye, Dany saw Samara slowly suck the sugar from her fingers, lost in thought.

She looked tense. Dany certainly felt it.

Turning fully back to the window, Dany tried to… Digest Samara’s words. Without their argument to distract him, he was slightly concerned to find himself… Fine. Relaxed, almost.

Bizarre as it was to think, there had been something… Genuine about Samara’s argument, something kind. Honest. But that was her all over - completely unafraid to tell him the truth, regardless of whether or not he wanted to hear it. So long as she knew it would help, Mara always told him the truth - and being Danyal Zafar meant that, often, the truth was substituted for flattery.

There were few people who were confident enough in their relationships with Danyal to be so honest - but they were the few that Dany valued the most, as his closest and dearest friends.

It felt… Good, to know Samara was a part of that group. A pleasant surprise.

Great to know you noticed just in time to help her disappear.

Dany frowned.

He and Samara didn’t talk for the rest of the journey.

. . .

Danyal and Samara’s office, the one they spoke about with such affection, was the Pakistan Monument; a towering structure, designed to look like a blooming flower from an aerial view, with each petal carved with the nation’s history. The Monument was part of a larger complex, including a museum, gardens and a large terrace made of marble that overlooked the city in its entirety - including the Margalla Hills in the distance, the beginning of the Himalayan foothills.

Even as a little boy, Dany had always loved those hills. Beyond them began India - and so, in an odd sort of way, those hills represented home to Danyal more than any one country.

Dany had taken Mara to the Monument for the first time - during their first family trip, when they’d ran out on everyone and almost caused her aunt’s head to explode. Like most people who considered a large city home, despite her many trips back, Samara had never been to the Monument - after all, it was a tourist attraction. All residents of any city took tourist attractions for granted. But Dany had been aghast at that entire way of thinking, and insisted on righting such a terrible wrong.

To thank him for it, Mara had taken the Zafars out for some of the best barbecue in the city, out on the hills. Mara and Dany had sat on opposite ends of the table, smiling triumphantly at each other, as their families had laughed and joked, Islamabad basking in the warmth of endless twinkling lights beneath them.

Standing out on the furthermost point of the terrace, the both of them looked out to the hills, remembering that same night.

If Samara could go back, would she? Would she have tried to tell herself it was all a bad idea? Was it?

And Dany wondered whether the heaviness in his chest at remembering such a fond memory was caused by some sort of altitude sickness.

Shaking his head to himself, Dany stepped forward.

“Ah, thank you.” Mara sighed happily, taking one of the sticks of a pistachio ice cream - called kulfi - happily. “Okay. The plan, from the top.”

“Is that really necessary?” Dany asked boredly, leaning against one of the many arches that decorated the terrace’s edge, removing focus from the silver security bar. “We’ve been over the plan at least a thousand times by now-”

“Then going over it again will be as automatic as breathing.” Mara said sweetly.

Danyal sighed.

“You have your final fitting this evening.” Dany began, an expression of intense disinterest displayed clearly on his face. “Ari will arrive tomorrow and you’ll all spend time together, before Annie and Ari leave for London the day after. By then, Raj and I will be in Vegas with the rest of the boys and by the time everyone has arrived there, you’ll be flying down to London for your hen-”

Mara shook her head through a mouthful of ice cream. “Not hen, bridal shower.” She corrected. Dany raised an eyebrow. Did it matter? “Pixie says hen gives off the wrong impression for someone as fancy as the Zafars’ first daughter-in-law.”

“And she actually said the word fancy?”

Mara waved her hand at him. “I’m paraphrasing. And make sure I give you the rings before you leave tomorrow. Carry on.”

“We have the business brunch with my parents’ board members on Wednesday morning, and the big, formal mehndi in the evening-”

“The one where we sit and look pretty and in love for all of the people that didn’t make the final guest list.” Mara smirked, nodding to herself. “Lucky them. Don’t forget my mehndi is on-”

“The Friday… And take off is Saturday night.” Dany finished, glancing over at Samara. All of a sudden, she was studying the view with a significant amount of interest. Happy for a distraction, Dany shrugged his… Watchfulness off. “Hey, you have more pistachios than me. Sharing is caring-”

Happy to have something distract them both, Dany quickly went to grab Mara’s ice cream… Only for Samara to hold onto it, staring up at him with indignation, until the ice cream swayed - and hit Danyal on the nose.

“That was not what I was expecting.” Dany muttered, too stunned to move.

… And that was when Samara started to laugh.

Dany’s warm smile was automatic - and as he touched where the already-melting ice cream had left its mark, Samara’s laughter went from loud to hysterical. It was infectious.

There was relief in Dany’s chuckle, too - because this, this felt ordinary. They sniped and teased at each other, and then they laughed about it, and then it was business as usual. And repeat.

Not after next week.

The thought was sudden, and intrusive enough, for Dany to stop laughing - not that Samara seemed to notice.

Dany watched, feeling… Dull on the inside, as the thought echoed in his mind. Mara was holding onto the safety bar to stay upright, and every time she looked up at Dany, she burst into a fresh set of giggles.

“You are - you are honestly - such a mess-” She wheezed, laughing so hard… That the ice cream fell to the floor with a soft splat, setting Mara off to the point where no sound left her mouth. Dany laughed too - but this time, purely because it was so fun to watch her laugh. “Oh my - oh my God, Danyal, come here- ”

That stupid, goofy smile still on his face, Dany leant down slightly as Samara stepped forwards, resting her hand on his shoulder to steady herself. The puddle of rapidly melting kulfi lay forgotten behind her.

“Try not to cause an accident with this one.” She snickered, nodding to Dany’s own.

It had been automatic - when Mara had closed the space between them, Dany’s hand had fallen to the small of her back, steadying her. There wasn’t anything… Special about it. Even now, as Mara used the tips of her fingers to gently begin dabbing away at the runaway dessert, still grinning… It was normal for Mara to be so close. Dany, or Mara for that matter, didn’t even think about it. It was normal for them to have so little space between them.

Would it be normal if I kissed her right now?

It had come out of nowhere - but before Dany even had time to process the thought, he was down the rabbit hole.

Immediately, he felt irritated at himself - and even more irritatingly, not for thinking something so… Unnecessary. No. He felt irritated because… He should have already known what it was like to kiss her. They’d done it enough times.

It was another tool in their box, something else to use as part of their charade as time had worn on. It was only the first time that had been… Odd. Dany had made the first move, proving a point to one of Samara’s obnoxious dancer friends who clearly liked her too much, and Samara, although clearly shocked at first, had quickly played along. That was all Dany could really remember.

It must have been pleasant. He wouldn’t have kept kissing her, or managed to make it so convincing, if that weren’t the case, right? He just… Hadn’t noticed.

Whenever they’d had to pull out a kiss for show - a proper kiss, not a quick peck on the cheek every now and then -… Well, Dany knew Mara had nice breath - and whatever she wore on her lips was never too sticky, or seemed to smudge too much over the two of them. She was really good at… Reading him, in terms of what kind of kiss they were meant to be having or what point it was meant to prove, but they were a good team like that anyway.

But beyond the pragmatics… Dany couldn’t think of much else.

As Mara opened her mouth to speak, Dany could only hear a strange… Roaring in his ears and his heart hammered at his chest, so hard that Dany was sure, if he looked down at his tunic, he’d see it. Her lips, pink and damp from the ice cream, brushed against each other… And Dany realised, as if he’d known it all along (when he really hadn’t), that those lips were addictive - because he wouldn’t have found reasons to keep kissing them if they weren’t.

She was addictive.

I’m getting too close. A voice in his head warned, and this time, it was very much Dany in control of it. Jump ship before you’re in over your head.

He was right. Of course he was. This thought process was… A runaway thought, yes, but not a good one. Dany was logical, practical, and practically speaking, entertaining such thoughts when feeling sentimental and potentially - potentially - … Nervous about next week’s performance was… Counterproductive.

Dany knew that. He did. The problem was that, despite knowing that, he still couldn’t drag his eyes away Samara’s mouth.

And worst of all, it seemed as if she was completely oblivious.

Dany landed back on Earth with a crash.

“- see you now, an entire mountain of rumours would just tremble.” Mara waggled her eyebrows mischievously, using the pad of her thumb to remove the last of the ice cream splatters from the corner of Danyal’s mouth. Nodding to herself, pleased with her handiwork, Mara absent-mindedly sucked the ice cream away. “There, all fixed, you’re welcome.”

He’d already been thinking about kissing her. Now he was mentally tripping over himself, at seeing Samara’s fingers, which had been in contact so easily with his mouth, being in contact with her own.

Realising that he was… Sinking, Dany subtly glanced around. The Monument was a popular spot for picnics, and Danyal spotted a family a small way away, including a young couple - Dany guessed early thirties -, smiling in his and Mara’s direction.

He knew what they were thinking - that he and Mara, with him pulling her close and Mara’s engagement ring sparkling in the sunlight, were newlyweds. And normally, Dany would have warned Samara that they had an audience - but he didn’t.

And there was no constant buzzing in his head, either. He felt weirdly… Quiet, with one hand on Samara’s back and the other - he couldn’t even remember how it had gotten there - on her waist. Calm. Like all of the background noise in his head that he was used to, along with the added buzz that had come from their previous conversation… Didn’t exist. He was just… There. Present. Holding her close and feeling a bit gormless, as Samara nattered away obliviously.

What the Hell did that mean?

“- isn't she? Danyal?” He jerked back to the present, immediately paranoid, as Mara slapped him lightly on the cheek. What had he missed? Had she noticed him staring? It was no secret that they both found the other at least passably attractive, but staring like an idiot at her mouth was something a little more difficult to explain. In fact, even internally, the overwhelming urge to just… Kiss her was fucking weird. Mara, finally seeing Dany’s pupils refocusing, sighed. “Divvy, we’re talking about Divvy. Do I have your attention now? She is going to do what we want her to next week, isn't she?”

She then stepped away from him, back behind the melting kulfi, to look up at him properly - and Dany suddenly felt irritated at how he'd had to hide how his hands had hovered in the space where Mara’s body had been just moments before.

Dany’s irritation quickly became more frustrated, as Dany realised the question. What was with Mara’s… Obsession today? He was sick of talking about Divya, of her somehow being the focal point in nearly every conversation he and Samara had had so far.

… And yes, whilst Dany acknowledged there was an argument for the fact that, as the wedding approached, Divya - as part of the reason for the whole fake wedding thing was happening - was a necessary talking point… Why wasn't it enough for Dany to say he had everything under control?

He was sick of it, sick of discussing the same plan over and over again -

Sick of Divya.

Did that voice in his head come with a mute button?

“We’re not talking about this again.” Dany said firmly, shaking his head - not that, of course, it made any difference.

“It’s a valid question!” Mara protested, slightly offended by how… Casual he was being. Almost a year’s worth of scheming and manipulation was resting on Divvy Kapoor’s weak, pathetic little shoulders - Samara had every right to be concerned! “What if she doesn't fall for it? What if she doesn't get the hint about you wanting her to prove her love on the actual wedding day? We can't afford for her to mess this up, you're already going to have to be so careful with how you speak to her-”

Turning to stare down at the grey mess of winding roads beneath them, Dany clenched his jaw.

“I've told you, it's under control. She lives her life by a script, feeling as if her life is actually important enough to be dramatic in real life is enough to have her drooling.”

The bitterness in Dany’s voice took them both by surprise - and as a surprised silence fell between them, Dany tried to ignore how Mara’s eyes had widened at it. Hell, even he was surprised. He didn't just sound bitter. He sounded… Pissed.

They were discussing the final part of their plan - the part that only they knew about, the most delicate piece.

Throughout their fake relationship, Dany and Mara had methodically left a trail of breadcrumbs for Divya to pick up on. It was the most manipulative part of their plan, and possibly the cruellest - because it relied on Danyal’s intimate knowledge of Divya’s insecurities, and Samara’s ability to operate them.

It was Mara’s superpower, the power of which impressed Dany regularly. The action was always so simple; a look of uncertainty on Dany’s face, a frown on Mara’s, always perfectly timed so that Divya would always be the only one to see it, even across a crowded room. It wasn't even basic jealousy tactics - it was tailored so specifically to Divya’s personality, and her ego requiring Danyal to be unhappy with anyone who wasn't her, that it was... Impossible to be replicated.

It wasn't exactly a credit to Divya’s character - but it was an attest to Mara’s skill, and had, during Mara’s first demonstration, made Dany embarrassed to be so stuck in love with someone as… Easily played as Divya.

Not that Danyal was in a position to judge, of course. He was the idiot who had fallen in love with her.

Really?

But this time, Dany was too busy inside of his own thoughts to be irritated by that voice again. Their trail of breadcrumbs had led Divya to this moment - when, with the wedding looming ahead, her confidence in Dany’s love for her was suddenly quite shaken.

Divya, still playing her supposed sisterly role - something quite… Sickening, given Mara’s comments earlier -, would watch as the events leading up the wedding and unfolded - and she'd snap.

The rest was simple, in Dany’s mind - she would approach him, he knew, insisting he was making a mistake and generally attempting to get into his head. Dany would rebuff her - and, accusing her of the mindless jealousy she'd always so easily accused of him, hinting at an unspoken ultimatum. Do something about it - forget everything you've ever cared about, except this -, or watch me walk away, forever knowing that you destroyed your own happiness.

Mara had been surprised when Danyal had suggested that as the plan’s ending. Dany thought it rather fitting. After all, it was the exact same ultimatum that Divya had given him.

And so that was their plan - to let Divya unravel on the day of the wedding, causing chaos in her wake. Dany wasn't sure on the exact details - she'd either approach him before the ceremony itself, one last time to beg him not to go through with it, or simply assume to know Dany’s mind as she always had and interject before all of their guests -, but it didn't matter. It was the one part of the plan that Dany felt comfortable leaving slightly to chance… Because no matter what the method, the result remained the same. It was just a matter of which way the equation was balanced.

Dany’s knowledge of statistics was the source of his confidence. But his knowledge was not shared - which was why Mara continued to freak out about whether someone as “flaky as a derogatory adjective” - and that was a direct quote - could be relied on.

It was an annoying fear at the best of times, especially when you considered that Samara’s entire, successful plan so far had relied on logically assessing and manipulating Divya’s weaknesses. But Mara was quickly reminding him that fear was an illogical thing.

Dany couldn't relate.

“But…” Mara winced as Dany groaned. “I’m just saying, what if something has changed? What if she suddenly… Wakes up and realises that, actually, it’s kind of weird that she's this obsessive over you and should, actually, move on with her life-”

Dany couldn't hear anymore.

“So what if she does?” He snapped - and Mara physically jerked back at the sudden change in mood. “Are you worried you're suddenly going to have to marry me out of pity?”

Mara shook her head - slowly at first, and then quicker, as if offended by the mere suggestion.

Well, that made two of them.

“No, no, of course not-”

“Then what are you worried about?” Dany demanded. A small part of his brain - currently tied up somewhere, clearly - wondered what the Hell was wrong with him today. Samara was just nervous, and didn't she have a right to be? If his mood swings were anything to go by, it was a mutual feeling. So why was he being such a… Prat?

Dany genuinely didn't have a clue. Nerves didn't seem to be an adequate answer, and it wasn't like Dany had had the opportunity to think about Mara’s earlier comments and become offended. He'd been fine a few seconds ago!

Maybe you just care…

Dany finally felt grateful for that stupid voice - because, of course, that had to be it! Samara was his friend and she was… Working herself into a frenzy, over something that couldn't be helped. It was frustrating him, was all. That had to be it. They were meant to be enjoying their downtime, and they couldn't, because Mara was worried about Divya. He just wanted Mara to relax while she still could - before the lead-up to the wedding got really crazy.

Still… Knowing why he was so irritable didn't make Dany feel better. Since when did he stress out so much? Being an asshole wasn't going to make Mara feel better, or himself.

Much to his own surprise, Dany realised that maybe the voice of his subconscious had made a valid point. He was being neurotic, caring for his friend’s feelings like this.

It was probably guilt! Yes, that had to be it! He felt guilty because as much as Samara insisted she was doing this for herself, it was still Divya that she was stressing over. Dany’s ex. The ex who had influenced their entire plan, who they'd both had to work harder for.

Now Danyal felt better. It was still… Incredibly unreasonable of him, but at least it made sense. As long as things made sense, Danyal could make peace with it.

But that only furthered his point - that the voice telling him to take a step back, the sane voice, was right.

He couldn't take responsibility for everyone's feelings at once. That wasn't practical - and that was his job, to be the practical one.

Anyway, Dany knew for a fact that Samara was finishing up her period. That wouldn’t be helping. The first couple of times that PMS had affected her moods, Dany had taken note - and now, all it took was a simple calculation in his head.

Dany immediately felt calmer - more in control. He had understood the problem. He could come up with a solution, one that actually rather suited him. He almost felt silly, for being so confused before.

Dany had been so lost in his own thoughts, that he’d forgot his rudeness.

“Is this what it’s going to be like?” Samara asked quietly - and Dany turned, eyebrows raised, at the sudden sadness in her voice. “Our friendship, after the wedding?”

He paused, sure he’d misheard.

“… What are you talking about?”

“I’m talking about whenever I say something, or offer my opinion on whatever’s going on with you, you just shut me down.” Mara retorted, somewhat incredulous at Dany’s confusion. “You’re going to be a dismissive little shit, only with more of an audience, just because I’ll be your annoying ex?”

It slipped out before he could help it - and in fairness, and not for the first time in their conversation thus far, it came out a lot more abrasive than Dany had intended.

“Why would I be out with you in public after the wedding?” Seeing how Mara’s mouth fell open, Dany shrugged. “What?”

“What?” She repeated incredulously - and Dany stared as Mara crossed her arms angrily over her chest, her eyes flashing with anger. “What is it with you today, Danyal? Why are you being such a prick?”

Dany raised one, indignant eyebrow.

“A prick? Are you serious?” Dany scoffed - and just like that, all of the reasoning and internal debate he’d tried to so carefully cultivate… Disappeared up in smoke. He was being the prick? He was trying to make things better, easier and it was like every time he got closer to that goal, Mara deliberately tried to antagonise him. “What do you think is going to happen next week, Samara? After you run out of the wedding, Bollywood style, the week after that people are going to carry on seeing us hanging out in the park?”

“We both know that if there’s anyone running out of weddings Bollywood style, Danyal, it’s you, not me.” Mara retorted bitingly, her response immediate. “And - how dare you throw that in my face?! We agreed it’s the smartest thing for me to do - what, I’m meant to pretend to be dumped on the day of my wedding and then stand around and applaud as you marry the person you’ve dumped me for?” She raised her eyebrows expectantly as Dany stood to his full height, looking irritated. Well, if it was a fight he’d been after…

“Yes, and you conveniently left out the part about how much it’d kill you to stand there and applaud, when we first talked about it it-”

“What difference does that make?” Samara interrupted, frowning. “Literally - what difference does that make? None. It doesn’t. You’re being a douchebag.”

“It makes all of the difference!” Dany burst, causing Mara to scoff. Dany struggled to find the words. “I - you - it’s all about intent, it’s a matter of intent, you can’t ask for a round of applause for something when your intentions when doing it were different from the start-”

“When did I ask for applause? This is exactly my point, you’re not even listening to me-”

“You’re not listening to yourself-”

“Is this because of what I said about her earlier?” Mara demanded. The words on Dany’s tongue died - and although he told himself it was because he was struggling to find more, out of frustration at her… Wilful ignorance, that stupid voice told him it wasn’t. That, and to shut up and listen. And, you know, stop being a douchebag. “About… Divya? I wasn’t trying to upset you-”

But Dany wasn’t listening anymore, because she’d done it again - Mara had called Divya by her name. Not Divvy. Not your ex. And Dany suddenly felt like a popped balloon because… For God’s sake, what had they even been arguing about?

Mara was right. He was being a prick. And a douchebag.

It was just all so… Insane. Illogical! Dany had never had a temper, not ever. Everyone said he took after his father. The only time Danyal cared about his reputation was when it was somehow linked to business - other than that, he didn’t care. He didn’t need to. Being Danyal Zafar came with too many benefits and positive associations to care about a small a price as other people’s opinions.

But God, Samara got under his skin. And that didn’t make sense either, because only his loved ones, his real inner-circle, had the power to do that - and with the wedding looming, Dany had been forced to realise that Samara didn’t fall into that category.

Which made the whole temper predicament a million times more confusing.

“You don’t need to apologise.” Dany sighed, deflating and rubbing his face, leaning against the safety bar again.

It took him a moment to realise Mara was staring - or, more accurately, glaring. Her eyes looked lighter in this light, and they always seemed to shine more when she was angry - even if Dany knew, like so many other things to do with the… Infuriating girl standing in front of him, it didn’t make sense.

“I’m not.”

They stared at each other for a moment - Mara’s eyes slightly narrowed and angry, Dany’s irritated and assessing - … And just… Stopped. They agreed to stop.

Dany looked back up to the Hills as Samara sighed loudly, shaking her head slightly.

He didn’t allow himself to think before speaking. If he did, he wasn’t sure he’d go through with it.

“We should stop talking. From as soon as I leave for Vegas.”

Dany kept his eyes trained on the hills - he focused on one of the lower slopes, the tree peaks looking darker from this distance -, as Mara stared up at him in surprise.

“What-” Mara paused. “Wait, what do you-”

“We started talking to each other out of necessity, but now it’s become habit. We need to get used to not talking to each other anymore.” Dany almost looked down at her - but he stopped himself, just in time, and kept his eyes on the view. They didn’t move, looking, but barely seeing. “That’s how things will be after the-” For some reason, the word wedding caught in his throat. Next to him, Mara was frozen too, looking up at him with an expression he wouldn’t allow himself to see. “- next week.”

Dany didn’t move. Not even his knuckles - white from how hard they were gripping the safety bar - as the skin stretched over the bone; and next to him, Samara didn’t either, Dany barely being able to see from the corner of his eye that she was still staring up at him.

They heard the picnickers talking and laughing and eating; the traffic below; the sounds of bells on anklets ringing and the rustle of shoes against marble, of the breeze.

But they didn’t move.

In fact, as the minutes wore on, Danyal wondered if he’d spoken at all. If Mara had heard. In fact, it was just as Dany opened his mouth to… Say something, to check, something, when Samara finally spoke.

“Okay.” She said quietly - and when Dany stared down at her, his jaw clenching at the answer he’d thought would make him feel better to hear, Mara wasn’t looking at him, either. Her eyes were trained on nothingness behind him - a part of the marble floor. “Fine, yes, if that’s what you think. It… Makes sense.”

“It makes sense.” Dany repeated, a fresh wave of irritating, unidentified emotion itching at the back of his neck. It sounded more like a convincing.

It happened again. That… Pause.

This time, it was gone as quickly as it had come.

“We should go.” Mara sighed, turning away. Dany’s eyebrows furrowed in confusion. “There’s a lot to get done before next week - and you have your flight tomorrow.”

“We have time-” Dany muttered, checking his watch - but Samara shook her head, looking out to the view Dany had been so interested in just moments before.

“No, let’s go.” She echoed. “We’re done here.”

Dany watched as, without a second thought, Mara began to walk away.

Dany looked out to the city one more time - and slowly uncurled his fingers from the railing, feeling them ache slightly as they stretched. He was almost grateful - it was… Easier, to think about.

“Bye, office.” Dany muttered, frowning as his chest felt heavy - and following Samara out of their favourite place, for the last time.

*

They didn’t speak for the rest of their journey. Hell, neither one of them said much for the rest of the day - but with Dany, it was just… Less noticeable, with nobody there to question him. During her fitting with Pixie, Mara blamed jet-lag - and to her knowledge, it was.

Dany dropped by Mara’s uncle’s place, a modest white mansion at the base of the hills, in the morning, to pick up the rings.

By the time Samara had handed them over - and turned away for just a second, to reply to the maid asking after Danyal’s breakfast-, she could already hear the slam of the car door.

She sighed heavily to herself, pulling her shawl closer around her as she watched the car drive away. Danyal didn’t seem to look back.

“Guess we’re starting early.” Mara muttered to herself - before turning away, and doing the exact same thing.

[gamergirl929]

A Secret Union (Tobin Heath x Reader)

Submitted Request:  Can I request one where every one thinks Tobin and Christen are dating, but in reality Tobin has been secretly married to her girlfriend for awhile and decides to introduce her to the team.

Reader is a USWNT Hockey Player in this one, also this request was submitted with an email, but I don’t want to post it publicly.

“Do you think they’ll ever tell us?” Megan whispers as Tobin leans against Christen, the forward whispering in her ear, causing her to blush.

“You know how they are.” Ashlyn shrugs.  

Though Ashlyn, Ali, and Megan had been closest with the two forwards, they STILL had yet to reveal their relationship to the trio, the pair keeping it under wraps.  

Little did the three know that the relationship between her and Christen WASN’T what she was keeping under wraps, but it was another relationship, something she had yet to reveal to the world.  

                                                          ***

“Oooooh! Look who’s here!” Christen squeaks the following morning, Tobin’s brows furrowing as she follows her gaze across the dining room, seeing someone she didn’t expect making their way towards the USWNT’s table.  

“WHOA! What are you doing here!?” Kelley jumps to her feet with a grin, running towards you and wrapping her arms tightly around you.  

You’d met the team right after the World Cup, the entire team coming to a USWNT Hockey Game, after meeting the team, you’d immediately clicked with Tobin, the two of you spending time together WELL after you’d met the team, the time you spent together giving your feelings a chance to blossom.  

You pull back with a grin, your eyes instinctively going to Tobin, the forward unable to wipe the toothy grin from her face.  

Christen leans towards her, whispering in her ear with a grin.  

“Are you surprised?” She asks, the Portland Thorn chuckling.  

“Yeah...”

Tobin watches as you make your rounds, hugging every USWNT before you make it to her, a toothy grin on your face.  

“Hey.” You whisper, a knowing twinkle in your eye, a twinkle that Tobin mirrors in her own brown orbs.  

Your eyes drop to the woman’s parted lips, her tongue swiping at the soft fleshed you’d spent the entire off season kissing.  

Your hands settle on her waist momentarily before you wrap your arms around her, pulling her against your chest, the woman’s arms slipping beneath yours, hands splayed on your back as she buries her face in your chest.  

“I missed you.” She whispers, a smile stretching across your face as you bury your face in her hair, stealthily kissing the top of her head.  

“I missed you too.”  

“WHOA. WAIT.”  

Suddenly, your arm is pulled from around Tobin, the forward’s eyes widening when Julie holds your arm out, pointing to the ring on your finger.  

“WHAT IS THAT!?” Ashlyn squeals as she points at the wedding band wrapped around your ring finger.  

“UMMMM, what does it look like?” You ask, Megan flicking you in the head.  

“So, who’s the lucky lady?” Alex asks and your eyes widen.  

“Who says it’s a lady?” You ask, Emily blowing a raspberry at you.  

“Ummm, you literally wore a rainbow arm band at the Olympics...”  

Mallory nods.  

“Don’t forget the tape she had on her stick was rainbow...”  

Lindsey nods.  

“AND your skates.”  

You throw your hands up in the air.  

“Alright! Enough!” You laugh. “It is a woman.”

Alex nods.

“Knew it.”  

Christen plays dumb, glancing at Tobin before she innocently asks.  

“Who is it!?”  

You smirk, turning to her with narrowed eyes, the two of you growing closer since you spent a vast amount of time with not only Tobin, but her as well during the offseason.  

You shrug, whispering only so the women around you can hear.  

“It’s a secret.”  

Sam rolls her eyes.  

“Tell ussssssssssss.” She whines, Rose wearing her best pout.  

“Pleaseeeeee?”  

You shake your head.  

“I can’t.”  

Crystal throws her head back with a groan.  

“You can’t keep secrets from ussssssssssss.” Tierna pouts and you huff.  

“Sorry kid...” You hold your hands up in surrender.

The USWNT grumbles under their breath, meanwhile you turn to Tobin with a smile, sending her a wink, the woman’s cheeks flushing.  

“Who knows, maybe you’ll find out soon?” You smile, shrugging, not taking your eyes off of Tobin, Tobin whose lips split in a grin.  

“Maybe we will.” She shrugs, and you beam, hoping that the forward’s words ring true.  

                                                          ***

You can’t wipe the grin off your face when the door to your hotel room opens, Tobin opening it with the key you’d given her, the woman rushing towards you.  

“I know we didn’t talk about wearing our rings but I just-

Tobin cups your cheeks, the woman pressing a kiss to your lips, pulling back only to lean back in again, closing the distance between the two of you again.  

She pulls back, resting her forehead against yours, giggling when you cover her face in kisses.  

“I missed you so much.” You whisper, the woman kissing your lips again, her lips splitting in a grin.  

“So, you aren’t mad about me wearing it?” You ask, flashing your ring to the woman who shakes her head.  

“How could I be?” She asks, taking your hand, tangling your fingers with hers. “It looks great on you.” She winks.  

You grin, wrapping your arms around her waist.  

“You’re just saying that because you know that it means I’m yours.”  

She hums.  

“Maybe I should start wearing mine?”  

You smile, giddy at the idea of everyone knowing that Tobin Heath is your wife.  

“I mean, I’m not opposed to it.”  

Tobin laughs.  

“I didn’t think you would be.”  

You lean in, pressing a kiss to her lips, playfully kissing her lips again and again before your kiss the tip of her nose, then her forehead.  

“So how much time do we have?” You ask, Tobin grinning.  

“As long as you want.”  

You beaming.  

“Do you know what THAT means?” You smirk seductively, Tobin’s cheeks flushing.  

“Oh, what?” She asks innocently and you laugh, your tongue trapped between your teeth, leaning in, bypassing her lips in favor of whispering in her ear.  

“It means we get to cuddle.”  

Tobin giggles as you jump on the bed in excitement, the forward rolling her eyes. 

“No one would think you literally bulldoze over people for a living.” She laughs, kicking her shoes off and climbing into bed.  

“Hey, even hockey players like to cuddle, now get over here.” You open your arms, Tobin crawling into your arms, the two of you sighing as you hold her tightly against your chest.  

You turn your head, kissing her temple.  

“I love you.” You whisper, the woman grinning as she turns in your hold, laying face down on top of you, her nose buried in your chest.  

“I love you too.”  

                                                          ***

Tobin smiles when she sees you signing autographs in the crowd, closest to the VIP section where you were going to sit for the game, her smile widening when you take a picture with two little girls.  

“Your heart eyes are showing.” Christen whispers, causing Tobin to jump, the forward sending her best friend a glare.

“I can’t help it.” She smiles as you take your seat in the VIP section, your eyes scanning the field for a moment before they lock with hers.  

You give her and Tobin a wave, earning one back, while getting basically tackled by Mallory and her gaggle of younger teammates.  

Tobin smiles.  

Maybe she didn’t want to hide her heart eyes for you any longer...?

Maybe it was time to reveal to her teammates, and the world what she’d been hiding for more than a year?  

She nods.  

“It’s time.”  

                                                          ***

You’re unable to keep your composure as Tobin scores, jumping to your feet and throwing a fist in the air, screaming loudly, so much so that everyone turns towards you.  

Tobin laughs when she sees you rub the back of your neck, slowly taking your seat.

The whistle blows, signaling the end of the first half and Emily jumps on her back, wrapping her arms around Tobin’s neck.  

“Are you showing off for Y/N, Heath?” She teases, the blonde gasping. “SHE’S SPOKEN FOR.”  

Tobin rolls her eyes, wiggling until Emily falls off her back.  

“I’m not showing off for Y/N.” She growls.  

Ashlyn throws an arm around her shoulders.  

“Yeah, Y/N’s married Tobes.”  

Tobin smiles unconsciously glancing down at her ring finger.  

“I know that.”  

                                                          ***

The final whistle blows and Tobin immediately turns to you, a grin stretching across her face.  

“Hey.”  

Tobin picks her head up, smiling as Christen makes her way towards her, her hand fisted into a palm.  

“Put it on.” She whispers, dropping the ring into her best friend’s hand, the woman immediately slipping it on her finger.  

Across field, Emily’s eyes widen, the blonde pointing towards her ex Portland Thorn’s teammate.  

“Is she... Is she putting on a ring?” She whispers in disbelief, those close to her turning towards Tobin, their eyes wide.  

“N-No way, are they final-

Ashlyn stops mid-sentence, watching as Tobin move passed Christen and heads right towards you.  

“No fucking way.” Kelley whispers over and over again, slapping Alex’s arm over and over again, she and the others slack jawed as they watch you jump over the seat in front of you.  

You clear your throat, your gaze dropping to the ring on her finger.  

“Y-You’re sure?” You whisper, the forward nodding as she cups your cheeks, missing the way everyone watches the two of you, completely and utterly stunned.  

“I’m more than sure.”  

You cover Tobin’s hands with your own, leaning in, closing the distance between the two of you, wedding bands prominent on both of your ring fingers.  

Everyone slacked jaws turn into smiles before shifting to frowns.  

“Those assholes didn’t tell us.” Megan whispers and Kelley growls.  

“They’re so going to get it.”

You and Tobin pull apart, your foreheads resting together as your eyes lock.  

Ashlyn sighs.  

“They’re so cute together.” She whispers.  

“But they’re still going to get it.” Kelley mumbles, her harsh tone ebbing slightly, the defender smiling as you tilt your head back, kissing Tobin’s forehead, your noses playfully brushing back and forth against one another.  

“Ugh, they’re cute as fuck.” Emily mumbles, her ear tugged by Ali seconds later. 

“Don’t swear.”  

You kiss Tobin again and Ali sighs.  

“But they are cute as fuck.”  

The two of you turn to the rest of the USWNT, your eyes widening when you see all of them glaring your way.  

“We’re so dead, aren’t we?” You whisper, Tobin nodding.  

“So dead.”  

                                                          ***

Everyone stares at you and Tobin, their eyes narrowed as they force you to sit on the benches in the locker room.

“I should’ve brought my hockey stick.” You whisper to Tobin, the woman giggling as she takes your hand, playing with your wedding band.  

Megan groans.  

“If you two weren’t so cute, we’d literally kill you right now.”  

You give the group your best charming smile only for Kelley’s eyes to narrow.  

“That won’t work.” She growls, your eyes widening when Tobin kisses your cheek, a soft smile spreading across your face as your eyes soften.  

Kelley groans.  

“Ugh, stoppppppp.” She whines, drawing your attention away from one another and back to the group of USWNT who are ALL quickly losing the ire they felt at not knowing the two of you were married.  

“Wait...” Mallory’s eyes narrow as she leans towards you. “How long have you two been married?”

Tobin’s brown orbs widen as she glances at you, your eyes widening slightly as you rub the back of your neck.

Tobin shrugs, mumbling under her breath, words barely leaving her mouth.  

“Yeah, can you speak up?” Julie leans forwards, she and the rest of the team straining their ears to hear her.  

“Ummm, 14 months...” Tobin mumbles, the earlier ire that had been dissipating now back in full force.  

“A WHOLE YEAR!”  

The women all yell, talking over one another, the two of you unable to understand anything they’re actually saying.  

You turn to Tobin, the look of utter terror on her face making you snort, that snort silencing each and every one of the USWNT players.

“What’s so funny?” Emily asks, your smile splitting into a grin.  

“Your face is priceless.” You giggle at Tobin, the forward sending you a glare.  

“It was not.” She growls and you snicker.  

“Yes, it was.”  

Again, the ire they were feeling fades away as they watch the two of you playfully nudge each other, Tobin giggling as you kiss her cheek over and over again.  

Kelley growls.  

“Goddamn it, they’re adorable.”  

“How are we supposed to be mad at them?” Ashlyn grumbles and Megan rolls her eyes.  

“They aren’t making it very easy.”  

Tobin meanwhile leans against you, the woman unconsciously twisting the wedding band on your finger.  

Alex shakes her head, turning to Christen.

“We can’t be mad at them, can we?”  

Christen shakes her head.  

“They really love each other, you’ll see...” She grins, her eyes widening when she realizes what she’d confessed.  

“YOU KNEW!?” Kelley yells, their anger turning to Christen.

You glance at Tobin the two of you whispering.  

“Do we let them kill her?” Tobin asks and you shake your head.  

“Of course not.”  

“Don’t kill Chris, we told her not to tell.” You send the forward a nod, the woman nodding rapidly.  

Julie points at Christen.  

“And since YOU told her to lie, and you and Tobin are adorable...”  

Kelley groans loudly.  

“WE CAN’T BE MAD AT ANYONE.”  

You shrug, turning to Tobin, the woman’s brown orbs locking with yours.  

She nods.  

“Yep.”  

Kelley sighs in defeat, turning to Alex with a pout, the forward slipping an arm around her.  

“Goddamn it.”  

Meanwhile you turn to Tobin, pressing a kiss to her lips.  

“Well, that didn’t go as bad as I thought.” You shrug, Tobin nodding.  

“Now we have to tell YOUR teammates.”  

You swallow hard, your eyes widening.

“Oh shit.”