#uhtred and his pretty boys

[witchthewriter]

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐋𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐝𝐨𝐦 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞

⤷ female, ambiguous race, and any size reader. Requests are open, thank you for reading!

Also this is 18+ ... we acting like grown ups.

ᴹᵃˢᵗᵉʳˡᶤˢᵗ | ᴹᵃˢᵗᵉʳˡᶤˢᵗ ᴵᴵ

𝑼𝒉𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒅

“Destiny is all… but you were never part of the plan.”

・This marriage is a strategic alliance. An act to broker peace between two warring factions.

・Even though Uhtred wants this peace, he isn't thrilled about it.

・At first his mindset was to keep you alive, but the more you got to know each other...the more he was in denial:

“I don’t care about her. I just need to make sure she stays alive… for the alliance. That’s all.”

・What started as a simple sword lesson had turned into him pushing you harder than he intended. Wanting you to see the true strength of opponents.

・He didn't want to sugarcoat what war and battles were. (Not that you had been fantasising about them anyway).

・Uhtred thought his lesson was going well until you finally knocked him to the ground.

・For a split second, he was shocked...stunned and then he stared up at you, breathing heavily. And then he smirked.

・Showing indifference, Uhtred trains you to fight. And adorns you with proper fighting gear, a shield and gets a blacksmith to make your very own sword.

・Even in the early stages of your marriage, Uhtred would subconsciously protect you - no matter where you were or what you were doing. E.g., even at the tavern, he never let anyone get too close (his men were like three other bodyguards)

・You were glad for Finan, he became like a brother to you. Always making things lighter, bringing the humour.

・Because you were constantly on the road with the four men. And Uhtred didn't trust anyone else to take care of you.

・But he would never say that...

・Sihtric barely spoke to you, but he held a lot of respect for you.

・Over time, Sihtric becomes one of your fiercest defenders, in battle and in life. Like a quiet shadow, a forcefield ensuring no harm comes to you.

・Osferth; he's your first friend, real friend, although he was a bit awkward. You become the sister he's always wanted. And he becomes that little brother who wants to follow you everywhere and do everything you're doing...

・The truth of Uhtred's feelings comes out during a heated argument. After nearly getting himself killed...again, you accuse him of putting too much at risk to gain Bebbanburg, that he cares too much about gaining that castle back.

・Shocked, ashamed, embarrassed that you would say that. Uhtred's face heats, and what you say is truth. Well, it was truth, until:

"I have spent my whole life fighting for Bebbanburg! But then you came along, and now I’m fighting for something else. For you. Don’t you see that?”

𝑵𝒊𝒄𝒌𝒏𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖:

“My Heart” uses this one when you have private moments and when he feels vulnerable. I.e., after a battle or during soft, intimate conversations.

“Shieldmaiden” is used in front of his men, showing his pride in you.

“Wife” is both teasing and affectionate, often said when you’re being stubborn.

𝑹𝒆𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔

Shared Vision and Purpose

Closed Off (Uhtred) x The Person They Warm Up To (You)

Brave Warrior (Uhtred) x Self-Assured Damsel (You)

Places His Wife Above Everyone

𝑷𝒍𝒐𝒕 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆

Home Is Wherever You Are

The Parents Of The Group

Reluctant Allies to Lovers

𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒎𝒆 𝑺𝒐𝒏𝒈

Kingdom Dance by Alan Menken

Scotland by BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra

I Had To Do That by James Newton Howard

𝑭𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒏

“I didn’t want this, but now? I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”

・Your marriage was a political alliance to strengthen ties between Ireland and the Saxons. Finan, as Uhtred’s right hand, was seen as a valuable connection.

・How else could Finan endure this other than with humour?

・As soon as you met him, he was cracking jokes. Sometimes he was funny, other times you were annoyed - because he was constantly making light of ... everything.

・When you called him out on it, he sighed, "I'm sorry lass. It's ah...the only way I know how to cope sometimes."

“She’s alright, I guess. I mean, for someone who can’t keep up in a fight…” (He says this right before throwing himself in front of an arrow meant for you.)

・Day by day, you were slowly opening up to each other. Learning through talking by the fire, on horseback, walking through the forest.

・Soon Finan began to lean close while talking to you, staring into your eyes, moving a piece of hair behind your ear, brushing past you "accidentally", etc.

・Finan was always looking to see if you were okay. Even in a crowded hall, his gaze would flick to you every few moments, but if he was ever caught, he'd smirk and look away.

・Whenever you feel down, Finan doesn't mind making a fool of himself to make you laugh

・If talking doesn't help, he'd happily slip in the mud during training or let Sihtric carry him around bridal style.

・One night, as a joke, you tied a small braid into his hair, saying it makes him look more "noble." He laughed it off but didn't take it out... he wore it for days afterward.

・His feelings are brought to light during a drunken night around the fire. The others were sharing stories about what they fight for; land, honour, family, ... fun.

・Someone asked Finan and as he was about to make a joke, he glanced at you.

・Your face was illuminated by the light of the flames, and it hit him like a punch to the gut.

"Her."

Silence fell. He looked to you who was wide-eyed, "I'll always fight for you."

𝑵𝒊𝒄𝒌𝒏𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖

“Lass” is his go-to—light, teasing, and affectionate.

“Trouble” slips out when you’re bickering or challenging him (which is often).

“Little One” is playful, his everyday teasing, often when he’s trying to make you laugh.

𝑹𝒆𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔

You Fell First, But He Fell Harder

Constant Banter

The Sarcastic Duo That Can Finish Each Other's Insults

Places His Wife Above Everyone

𝑷𝒍𝒐𝒕 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆

Height Difference

Bickering and Banter

Timeless Love

𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒎𝒆 𝑺𝒐𝒏𝒈

Say Yes To Heaven by Lana Del Rey

Valerie by the Midnite String Quartet

Happily Ever After by George Fenton

𝑺𝒊𝒉𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒄

“You make me feel like I belong… like I'm worth loving.”

・For Sihtric, he was forced to marry you. The King willed it so. It was a cruel decision. the King wanted to somehow split up Uhtred's group - make it harder for them to be connected.

・It didn't turn out how the Monarch intended...the group just kept you with them.

“I don’t care if she notices me. I’m just here to protect her.” (He says while carrying a pouch full of the random trinkets you’ve given him.)

・You were trained by all of them in battle; how to defend, attack, how to do a shield wall etc.

・Spending time with the men was fun; even if Sihtric was silent most of the time.

・Finan always made you laugh, and Osferth made you feel comfortable no matter what the context was.

・In time, you truly thought of Uhtred as your leader. And you too called him 'Lord.'

・Sihtric constantly lingered in the background. He was always nearby, however, he was never imposing. Just ensuring you were safe.

・You were very different to what everyone thought. There was a softness in you. A heart of gold.

・When you became comfortable around Sihtric, you started to give him things.

・Particularly things you found on your journeys. E.g., many many rocks; smooth river stones, shiny pebbles (anything shiny really), beautiful feathers from birds, flowers that have specific meanings etc.

・And he keeps every single item.

・His pockets are completely full.

・Sihtric is constantly staring, but instantly looks away when he's caught. A small blush dusting his cheeks.

・Another thing is his quiet gestures...he'll fix your armor, puts extra supplies on your horse, sharpens your sword without saying a word.

・The love you hold for each other comes out during the aftermath of a brutal fight.

・You were tending to Sihtric's wounds, hands trembling as you stitched a deep cut on his arm.

・Sihtric couldn't help but watch your face, the concetration, the look of concern.

・You were both silent until you uttered, "You...you could have been killed," your voice was soft but full of emotion.

・Sihtric caught your wrist, his blood-stained fingers entwining with yours.

In a voice so wrapped with truth, Sihtric whispered, "I would die for you. Without hesitation. "

・This marriage wasn't duty anymore. Now...it was love.

𝑵𝒊𝒄𝒌𝒏𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖

“Little Blade” pops up during training sessions or when you sass him.

“Mine” is possessive, intense, and usually slips out during high-stakes moments.

“Angel” when he’s overwhelmed with how much he adores you.

𝑹𝒆𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔

Madly In Love (Sihtric) x Ridiculously Oblivious (You)

Sun (You) x Moon (Him)

Always Bringing Them Rocks They Think They Would Like (You) x Keeps The Rocks (Him)

Places His Wife Above Everyone

𝑷𝒍𝒐𝒕 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆

Healing and Redemption

Unbreakable Bond

Emotional Intimacy

𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒎𝒆 𝑺𝒐𝒏𝒈

Me and Your Mama by Childish Gambino

Sex On Fire by Midnite String Quartet

Fire In The Water by Feist

𝑶𝒔𝒇𝒆𝒓𝒕𝒉

“You make me brave. Brave enough to be yours.”

・The marriage was to save your life. Many Saxons wanted you dead, but a marriage to a religious Saxon meant you'd be safe.

・Early on in the marriage Osferth would blush at everything you did. From compliments to teasing, he was constantly red-faced.

・But as your time together grew, he started seeking out those moments.

・Even though he’s usually mild-mannered, if anyone speaks poorly of you, Osferth is the first to step up; sword in hand, voice shaking, but unwilling to step down.

・Osferth would give you thoughtful gifts. Small items like a bunch of wildflowers, a smooth stone, etc. But never admitting they’re from him.

“She’s just being friendly. That’s what this is… right?” (As he turns red after you compliment his sword-fighting.)

・Both of you faced your feelings when he thought he lost you.

・It was after a battle; a close one where you all were separated from each other. You were missing for a few hours, and Osferth had been searching unrelentlessly.

・With each moment his panic had risen. His heart beating so fast he thought he might die.

・But he did find you. You were unconscius but alive.

・Osferth cradled you, tears in his eyes while whispering his feelings:

“Please, don’t go. I… I love you. I should have said it before.”

・You stirred at his words, opening your eyes, smiling lightly.

・Blinking slowly, you hummed. Moving to hold onto his arm.

"I love you too."

𝑵𝒊𝒄𝒌𝒏𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖

“Sweetheart” is his everyday term — filled with gentle love.

“Dearest” slips out when he’s overwhelmed with love — often in moments of shyness or soft confessions.

“Braveheart” is used when he’s overwhelmed by your strength, often after emotional or dangerous moments.

𝑹𝒆𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔

He Confessed His Love When Thinking You Were Unconscious 

Black Cat (You) x Golden Retriever (Osferth)

Menace To Society (You) x Living Moral Compass (Osferth)

Places His Wife Above Everyone

𝑷𝒍𝒐𝒕 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆

Trust and Dependence

Intertwined Destinies

Love Conquers All

𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒎𝒆 𝑺𝒐𝒏𝒈

Running Up That Hill by Kate Bush

The Train by James Newton Howard

Let The Light In by Lana Del Rey

𝑺𝒊𝒈𝒕𝒓𝒚𝒈𝒈𝒓

“I would follow you to the ends of the earth—because without you, none of this matters.”

・There was constant tension whenever you were around Sigtryggr.

・He rarely spoke to you in the early days of your marriage.

・Seeing it only as a way for him to gain more power

・And in return, your family would be safe - your village, kingdom, would not be harmed by any Dane.

・You kept your own beliefs and wore your traditional family clothes, even though you did not know when you would see your family again.

“She talks too much… but I don’t want her to stop.”

・Watches you when he thinks you aren’t looking.

・His stoic exterior hides it, but he studies you. Including how you smile, how you move, how you speak.

・Sigtryggr knows what your favourite colour is, what you like to do with your time - all because he notices things. And he wants to know more about you.

・He lets you in; allows you to see glimpses of his vulnerable self.

・He shares stories of his past, things he’s done, things he regrets and waits to see if you’ll turn away. You never do.

・And in a world where he controls everything...he lets you make decisions. E.g., about where to travel, what to eat. He values your opinion.

・When both of your feelings were revealed, it was during a difficult situation.

・You had confronted him after a harsh decision in battle. He had executed someone who defied him.

・It shocked you. But ... you understood. Traitors had to be punished, maybe he went a bit far this time but you understood.

・In the comfort and seclusion of your shared bedroom, you spoke your thoughts.

"Don't you think that was a bit ... brutal? I mean, yes he was a ... traitor but you could have done anything else-"

"I know you think I'm a monster," he replies, his voice low. He wasn't facing you, almost as if he wouldn't. Or couldn't.

"A monster?" You replied, shocked.

"Yes! Do you think I wanted this? To be this man?" His words came out like venom.

You soften, and step closer, "No. No, you aren't a monster. Sigtryggr, I have seen the good in you!

His gaze turns to you, utterly and completely. Gently taking a hold of your wrist, voice low and vulnerable: “I’ve done terrible things… but I would burn the world for you.”

・No more pretending. You had the realisation that...he is completely, undeniably yours.

𝑵𝒊𝒄𝒌𝒏𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖

“Beloved” used during rare, emotionally charged moments e.g., after a battle, during confessions, or when you’re vulnerable together.

“My Flame” is used when there's passionate, heated arguments or intimate moments.

“Little Chaos” he calls you this when you’re being unpredictable or teasing him.

𝑹𝒆𝒍𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒑 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒔

Soulmates

"I've done terrible things in the past" (Sig) x "All i care about is who you are in the present" (You)

The Hyperactive (You) x The Unheeded Voice of Reason (Sig)

Places His Wife Above Everyone

𝑷𝒍𝒐𝒕 𝑻𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆

I Can't Exist Without You

Healing and Rebuilding Together

I Go Wherever You Go

𝑻𝒉𝒆𝒎𝒆 𝑺𝒐𝒏𝒈

One More Hour by Tame Impala

Margaret by Lana Del Rey

Dance Me To The End Of Love by Leonard Cohen

[zaldritzosrose]

Valentine's Icons: TLK Edition

Just a little late Valentines treat for some of my favourite TLK boys!

Please like, reblog and tag if you use!

[lady-wyrd]

The Last Kingdom 4x01

[transfinan]

If u ask me (I'm gay) Haesten wanted in on their poly group (they are not looking for a 5th)(they need a bear)(up the diversity in that group)(too many otters)(plus Osferth counts for 2 twinks)

[all-that-is-gold-is-now-gone]

Finan: Everyone shush. The adults are talking. Osferth: Uh…Finan? Sihtric: You’re talking yourself Finan: Thats cause I’m the only adult here Uhtred: Rude

[dedicatednotobsessed]

⚔️The Last Kingdom Fanfiction Masterlist⚔️

ASKBOX: OPEN FOR CHARACTER REQUESTS

⚔️PLEASE READ GUIDELINES FIRST⚔️

Below is my collection of current and future The Last Kingdom fanfiction.

Feel free to message me through my askbox about any requests. 💕

⚔️Current number of fanfics: 2⚔️

⚔️Finan⚔️

• Safe In My Arms: One shot

Summary: I had a bit of writer's block working on some upcoming projects so please enjoy this 789-word one-shot for Finan from The Last Kingdom. The song's title is inspired by David Kushner's song, Safe In My Arms. I recommend listening to it while you read!

⚔️Osferth⚔️

• The Last Barold: Modern!One shot

This was a sleep deprived idea when I could hardly sleep so please enjoy this small drabble of Osferth playing Animal Crossing: New Horizons. (Inspiration came from a Pinterest post where a boyfriend was being supportive of their girlfriend who felt bad for kicking an octopus off their island).

[71starsmusic]

I should be working on music but made The Last Kingdom & Vikings wallpaper for my laptop instead. 😂❤️🎶 hopefully some of you will enjoy it

[finanmoghra]

coccham squad but they are the four elements.

finan is earth

sihtric is water

osferth is air

uhtred is fire

[bilbotargaryen]

🧍‍♂️

[tovalhallaandback]

I am once again thinking about how we were ROBBED of seeing more of the Danish/Norse/Pagan culture in TLK. We occasionally got the juxtaposition when the Danes raided towns/strongholds, then the stuff with Skade (S3)/Brida (S5).

Also still wondering why we had Rumcofa celebrating Blood Month but not Eoferwic?! Like can you imagine how much more impactful Brida's attack would have been had it coincided with their preparations for Blood Month as well?!

[finanmoghra]

ok hear me out,

coccham squad but they're a rock band.

uhtred is the lead singer, he's head over heels for gisela, and she's also head over heels for him but won't give in, cause you know, he's a rockstar

sihtric is the drummer, wife guy, he's always the first one to leave stage and run to his wife. and oh, don't get closer his dressing room in the forty minutes, before and after the show, the man is hungry

osferth is on bass and finan is on lead guitar, they're The womanizers, the ones whose the faces are always on the tabloids followed by photos of them getting in the hotel with a bunch of girls, they know how to have fun

[bilesandthesourwolf]

go nuts: uhtred and his pretty boys

stop: literally everyone else in the show

matching shirts for you and your bff

[pyschosoda]

Caught Staring

feat - Osferth, Finan, Uhtred, Sihtric

In which Uhtred and his pretty boys are caught staring at the woman their heart desires

a/n: my first post finally!!! I decided to start small in order to get the feel of writing for these characters! likes and reblogs are appreciated!!

“I can feel you staring at me…”

You watch the timid monk stiffen and look away from your peripheral. You often noticed Osferth’s eyes were drawn towards you when in the same room. You didn’t mind, of course; it was quite cute, so you never felt the need to call him out on it, but the poor boy looked as if he was about to explode if you didn’t speak up soon. 

“Ah…apologies… I don’t mean to stare." His eyes involuntarily straying back towards you for a moment before he forced his gaze to the wooden floorboards beneath his feet. 

 

“Have I got something on my face?” You tear your gaze from the arrow you had been crafting, now trailing over the anxious-looking monk. “Or perhaps my hair is askew?” A smile curls its way onto your lips as you watch Osferth shake his head at your teasing, his eyes flickering up to your face before dropping back down as if he couldn’t decide if he wanted to meet your gaze. 

 

"N…n-no, my lady, you-“

 

"I’m teasing you, Osferth,” you cut him off, not wanting him to embarrass himself further, his own lips curling into a smile as his eyes finally decided that he did want to meet your gaze. 

 

“Oh…” His voice is barely above a whisper. “Right…”

 

The two of you fall into a comfortable silence as your attention is drawn back to what you were doing before. 

 

and again, Osferth is staring. 

 

He watches as your hands craft arrow after arrow as if it were nothing more than muscle memory. 

 

From the corner of your eye, you notice Osferth fidgeting again, unsure if he should leave or try to start another conversation with you. 

 

“Come, sit,” you break the silence, making the decision for him as you offer him the seat across from you. “I’ll show you how to make an arrow.”

“I can feel you staring at me.”

 

Your voice cuts through the loud ale house, but Finan seemed to hear you just fine from where he was standing, slumped against the wall next to where you sat. 

 

“What? Now I’m not allowed to look at ya?" He scoffs, bringing the mug to his lips. 

 

“First ya take my seat, and now ya won’t even let me look at ya?" He jests, shaking his head as he wipes his mouth with the back of his hand. 

 

Your eyes roll at his words, unable to hide the smile Finan seemed to always bring to your lips. 

 

“I’m going to get us some more ale,” you state with a laugh, plucking the mug from his hands as you stand up and make your way to the barmaid behind the counter. 

 

Of course, once you left, Finan reclaimed his stolen seat. You opened your mouth to protest, but before you’re able to get a word out, he’s pulling you into his lap, the ale in the mugs sloshing around, coating your hands in the sticky liquid. 

 

“Finan!” you scold. “I’m covered in ale now, you bastard!”

 

He shushes you as he takes one of the filled mugs from your hands. “I’ll help you clean it off later; just sit still and let me enjoy a nice cup of ale with a pretty girl on my lap.”

“I can feel you staring at me,”

 

A grin stretches it’s way onto Uhtred’s face as he tore another piece of chicken from the bone, his eyes flickering down to the meat as he slips it into his mouth before his gaze moves back to yours. 

 

“Am I not allowed to look at my woman anymore?” He said in his usual smug tone that only added to his charm. 

 

“There’s a difference between looking and staring,” you say with false annoyance lacing between your words. 

 

This, of course, only makes him more smug, causing laughter to bubble up past his lips as he continues to enjoy his meal. 

 

“I can’t help that you look so beautiful tonight." Uhtred shrugs, looking back down at his plate as he finishes his food. 

 

“I look the same as I always do,” you argue, standing up to put away the plates.

 

As you walk by, Uhtred catches your waist with his hand. He leans back in his chair, his thumb gently moving back and forth, tracing the skin beneath your clothes. 

 

“That doesn’t make you any less beautiful to me." His voice was softer than before; the smugness was gone as he gazed up at you. 

 

“Sit, I would like to enjoy this moment with you a little longer." He releases your waist at the request, and you obliged, of course. Who are you to deny Lord Uhtred such a simple request? A request that ended up leading you right into his bed. 

“I can feel you staring at me.”

 

You pull your hands from the cold water of the river, giving Sihtric your full attention. It was hard to believe he was the warrior that people said he was because every time you got a look at him, he looked more like a puppy than a man to you, much like he did now, staring at you with wide eyes, shifting in the place he stood as he worked up the courage to speak more than his usual two words to you. 

 

“I wasn’t staring." His voice was light, almost light enough to be carried away in the wind, but you heard him. You always did. 

 

“No?” you hummed, turning your attention back to the wet dress in your hand. “Just happened to be strolling by the river, looking in my direction then?” 

 

There was a pause; for a moment, the only sound you heard was the sound of the river as you used it to wash your clothes. 

 

“You shouldn’t be out here alone." Sihtric spoke up, changing the subject. It seemed he’d rather focus on you in this moment. 

 

“I’m not alone,” you replied, squeezing the water from the dress you were cleaning. “You’re here.” You look back at him from over your shoulder, smiling at the sight of him moving his gaze down to his feet. 

 

“Will you come and make yourself useful, or are you just going to stand there and stare at me?” Your invitation seems to break the barrier between you two, the leaves crunching beneath his feet getting louder as he gets closer. 

 

“I was not staring,” he mumbles, taking one of the dirty pieces of clothing from her basket and dipping it into the river. 

- dividers by @dollywons and @thecutestgrotto -

a/n: again, this is my first post!! feedback in the comments would be appreciated! ^-^

[volklana]

Everything I Do. I Do It For You

Alfred's Daughter x Sihtric

Title Comes From This Song:

Fic Idea Curtesy of the ever amazing @whitedarkmoonflower : 💖💖

I was just dreaming of a story like Aramis und Anne just with Sihtric where Uhtred's pretty boys are tasked with safeguarding a princess (Alfred's daughter) and they are attacked and have to hide and ... you know what happens with Aramis and Anne in the monastery...

Warnings: Themes of domestic abuse. Violence and unwanted sexual comments/advances.

*Not as proof read as I would have liked*

The news from Kent left Aethelfaed reeling.

There had been a Danish incursion on the city of Canterbury, and the Lord, your husband had been too weak to banish them and was forced to concede some of his lands to the Danes, but to make matters worse it was being entirely blamed on you, her little sister.

“They are calling her Royal Whore,” she cried, pacing around the room and Uhtred reached out a hand to try and steady her, “What are we to do Uhtred?” she begged, biting the skin around her thumb, a nervous habit she had since she was a child.

“There can be no truth to it, Lady,” Uhtred reassured, “Y/n would never conspire with the Danes, she would never threaten Edward’s rule this way. She would not dishonour the memory of your Father.”

“We must go to her, we must do something!” she cried.

“You cannot Lady,” Aldhelm begged, “Mercia cannot be seen to interfere in this matter, it would be an attack of Kent’s autonomy, it would bring their fyrd’s upon us, it would mean war.”

“And so it should. They intend to put her sister to death,” Uhtred insisted and her face softened at him.

“Does my father’s name mean nothing?” she despaired, “She is a daughter of Alfred. Sister to the King of Wessex. My little sister,” her tears were flowing freely and both men wanted nothing more than to reach out and console her.

“I will go to Kent and I will retrieve her,” Uhtred promised and Aldhelm wilted,

“Uhtred you are too recognisable, and you are Edward’s man, this would be seen as Wessex interfering, and not on Edward’s orders.”

“He’s right,” Athelflaed cried, burying her head in her hands “She is lost to us.”

“I will go Lord,” Sihtric’s voice cut through the tension and everyone turned to face him “I will go and I will take her back safely Lady, upon my word, I will return her to you.”

“Sihtric,” Atheleflaed cried and sprung forward, not caring for etiquette or order and pulled him into a strong gripped embrace.

“You will be killed if you are caught,” she all but whispered to him.

“If you please, the Lady Y/N has always been kind to me and I would not see her abandoned to this fate,” he replied and she smiled sadly at him through her tears.

“There is an abandoned monastery along the old Roman road,” Uhtred instructed as Sihtric was readying his horse “If you can get to her we will meet you there,” Uhtred promised, grasping the young Dane by the back of his neck in affection.

“I will not fail you, Lord,” he promised.

“You never have!” Uhtred confirmed and the two embraced in promise that they would see each other soon. 

It did not take long for him to find you, but nothing could have prepared him for the sight of you when he slit the throat of the man standing guard outside your room of confinement, pushing the heavy door open to find you, hair down in loose curls, not plaited in the way he was used to seeing you and in nothing but your night shift, your lip was split and your cheek was marked red where you had been struck. Your hands were tied, your eyes wide and wild as if you were expecting someone else, another tormentor he thought distastefully. 

“Sihtric,” you gasped, frozen in place, taking him in as if he were an apparition of the Holy Ghost before you.

“Can you walk my Lady? We do not have much time.”

“Yes, yes!” you promised, running towards him, and you ran around corners, pressing your backs against stone walls whenever you heard voices, and continuing down countless stone steps until you were out into the freedom of the night air, down into the courtyard and Sihtric led you through a crack in the wall where he had left his horse, hoisted you up and kicked off into a gallop, away into the night.

The bells began to ring in the city behind you and Sihtric rode his horse for as long as could until the horse threatened to collapse from exhaustion.

It killed him to do it, because he loved the mare and she had been nothing but loyal to him but he knew he had to set her loose as soon as he deemed he was far enough away to maintain the lead, to avoid being tracked. 

He led you into the forest and filled his water pouch and pressed it to your lips, which you gulped gratefully.

He took his dagger and sliced at the ropes binding your hands, sighing when he saw the angry red skin where the rope had burned your wrists. 

You stood facing him for a moment before you thrust yourself into his arms, crying freely as his strong arms held you in place.

“I knew you would come for me. I knew it would be you.” 

“I promised I would always protect you,” he whispered into your hair and you pulled away to look into his mismatched eyes.

Sihtric had saved your life once, years ago, before you had been sent off like a brood mare to marry that Lord in Kent, when you and the Lady Aelswith had been set upon by a hungry mob, he had picked you up, your gown in tatters and carried you to safety, and he still wore the silver chain you had given him as recompense. It was the Christian Cross, he did not believe in your nailed god but when you had placed it around his neck and promised him it would keep him safe he did not have the heart to deny you.

And throughout the many battles he had survived since then, he would never admit to the amount of times he had pulled the chain from his undershirt and held it tightly until the sharp edges of the cross hurt his palm. 

“It will protect you as you have always protected me,” you whispered to him, looking up at him through your lashes and his heart had all but stopped in your chest. 

There had been something between you since then, some unspoken, unacted upon ‘thing,’ but it was there nonetheless, and you knew that Sihtric would lay down his life for you if it came to it.

He had watched you from the shadows for years, all those times Uhtred spent around your Father, around Aethelflaed, he was always there watching you with those huge beautiful eyes and the ‘thing’ had always been there. 

Sihtric would have walked through the night, following the river and the bright light of the full moon, until it led him to the old Roman road but he could see that you were exhausted and you were beginning to shake. He had ridden for hours and he suspected that those searching for you would be heading towards Winchester, not expecting you to be heading towards Aylesbury and especially not along the old Roman road. Or so he hoped so least. 

“We will rest here,” he finally whispered into the night, you had come along a little creek in the river and you both climbed down the bank where the overgrowth of roots and brambles allowed the perfect hiding spot, and he parted the thorns with his sword for you to crawl in and he followed behind.

He shrugged off his riding cloak and wrapped you up in it, rubbing his hands along your arms to try and warm you up, but your teeth still chattered.

“May I?” he asked and you nodded your head as he pulled you onto his lap and closed his arms around your body.

It was inappropriate and it was brazen, but it would be of no use if he carried your body back to Aylesbury because you had frozen to death in the night.

Your bare feet were like blocks of ice to touch and he fumbled with his sheepskin boots, pulling them off to get to his yarn socks, that he pulled off his feet and placed on yours, pulling his boots back on over his bare feet.

You thanked him profusely and he understood that you were ashamed of your predicament, you had lived a life of privilege and you were not adapted to the elements, Sihtric on the other hand had slept outside both willingly and as punishment more times than he could count. 

You were fighting sleep and he squeezed you lightly “It’s alright Lady, close your eyes and rest. I will keep watch and you will need your strength for the journey tomorrow.” 

Your head finally slumped against his chest and your breath evened out indicating that you had finally given in to sleep. 

When you woke in the morning, Sihtric was absent, so you ventured out to find him standing knee high in the flowing waters of the creek, catching fish with his bare hands and throwing them onto the bank. You stood for a moment watching him in silence, his naked torso gleamed under the morning sun and you watched his muscles contort and move with his efforts , until a glint of silver caught your eye.

“You still wear it?” you said softly, referencing the silver cross chain around his neck, your heart fluttering in your chest.

“Yes, Lady,” he replied, taking it in his hands, and looking at you with such honesty it made you want to cry “It keeps me safe.”

“Sihtric, you do not have to call me Lady. Please call me by my name.”

He looked at you shyly for a moment before nodding and continuing his work.

He deemed it safe to light a little fire in the morning sun, and you watched him gut and cook the fish, gladly eating what he provided for you, and when the fire was safely put out, you once again began your travels towards the old Roman road. 

The sun was its highest peak and you were beginning to lag behind him a little when he heard it, the unmistakable sound of hooves.

“Quick, quick,” he ushered, grabbing your hand and breaking out into a sprint pulling you behind him, down into some marshes and he pulled you down.

You were distraught, “Please. Please Sihtric don’t let them take me back there.”

“On my life, I will keep you safe,” he promised and you buried your head in his chest as he shushed you, your breathing was quick and ragged and he placed a gentle hand over your mouth, and he squeezed his own eyes closed at the voices on the road, he begged his gods and your nailed god to let them pass on. 

“I get first go of her when we catch her,” one of them shouted obnoxiously. “If she’s good enough for Danish cock, she’s good enough for mine.”

His friends roared with laughter and you felt the blood rush to your face, you would have recognised that voice anywhere, the head of your husband’s house guard, you were still carrying the marks to your face from his last visit to your chambers.

“Do you think her brother will interfere?” another voice asked.

“Edward is an aresling. Alfred would have had our Lord’s head on a spike for ever accusing his daughter of such a thing.”

“Well maybe Edward knew she was a whore, that’s why he gave her away so willingly.”

A chorus of laughter rang out, but Sihtric sighed in relief as it moved out of earshot, they were moving onwards.

But he was startled to feel his hand was growing wet and only then did he realise that you were crying, and your teardrops were splashing onto the gentle hand he still had over your mouth.

He cupped your face gently until your ashamed eyes met his, “I will never, ever let them have you or hurt you, ever again,” he whispered earnestly and you cried a few more moments before you gathered yourself enough to nod.

The road was no longer safe and so you would make the rest of the journey through the marshes and trees following alongside the road. 

You hadn’t said a word since hearing your husband’s men’s taunts earlier and Sihtric had no idea how to break the silence, so he opted instead to make sure to share his water with you, and because you were only in socks, he carried you over the heaviest parts of marsh or mud and you thanked him profusely each time but said no more than that..

As darkness was beginning to swoop in, Sihtric was relieved to see the monastery's large presence begin to come into sight.

“We’re almost there my Lady,” he told you and you smiled weakly at him, and accepted his outstretched hand as he pulled you over some brambles. When he went to take his hand back, you held it tighter in yours and so he let you keep a hold of his hand in yours as you walked the remaining distance.

He had caught a rabbit earlier in the day and immediately set about lighting a small fire to cook it upon.

He called you for food and you were ringing your hair out, you had gone down to the stream behind to bathe and he wanted to scold you, tell you how dangerous that had been, but seeing as you were safe in front of him now, it would have been pointless. 

He tried not to laugh as you scoffed down your food, but he had known just how hungry the day’s travel had been for him and he was used to it, you on the other hand had lived a privileged life and never known real hunger.

As it came time to hunker down for the night you came and stood before Sihtric, who was adding more wood to the fire.

“Those men were right earlier,” you told him, breaking your hours long silence, and Sihtric shook his head in disagreement.

“Not about me being a whore. But, about Edward giving me away.”

Sihtric moved closer so he was standing directly in front of you. He too had gone to bathe in the stream and his curls were loose and damp.

“I was given to Godwin as a consolation for the death of his brother Sigebriht at the battle of Bendanford. If the men of Kent had not shown up when they did- Edward’s men were outnumbered, who knows what would have happened.”

Sihtric had fought in the battle of Bedanford and remembered all too well the lines breaking before the men of Kent turned up.

“But he was kind to you, before all this? The Lord Godwin?” he asked softly.

You smiled sadly and in the glow of the flames Sihtric could see the tears in your eyes.

“Not once. From the moment we married he was heavy handed and cruel and on our wedding night I was sure I would die, but Athelflaed assured me that was a husband’s way and that I must endure it for the sake of Wessex, and so I did.”

Sihtric scrunched his hand into a fist in rage with what you were telling him but he let you continue.

“None of it is true, what I am accused of. I never lay with another man except my husband in all my life. I never conspired with the Danes. I found correspondence between the Lord Sigebright and my own uncle Aethelwold who were conspiring to seize the throne from Edward when he was Edward Rex, before the battle of Bedandord, and my own husband has intentions of doing the same, and so he discredits me with these lies so nobody will believe the truth of what I have uncovered and once I am dead he will be free to marry his mistress. She is the one he has always loved, who has carried the children he refuses to denounce, and who sleeps in the Lord’s bedchambers, while I was confined to the room you found me in.” 

Sihtric could feel the tears in his own eyes as he watched you helplessly.

“Tomorrow Lord Uhtred will arrive and we will take you to your sister and you will never have to go back there again,” he promised, tucking a stray piece of hair behind your ear.

“Then it is our last night together,” you whispered sadly and he nodded.

“My whole life I have been honour bound to serve my duty. To serve Wessex. It is true I have lived a privileged life, but I have never been free. I have never known love. Sihtric you are a kind and gentle man and any woman would be privileged to be loved by you, please,” you begged, taking his hand in yours. “If tonight is to truly be our last night, let me be loved by you, as I have loved you from afar for all these years.”

Sihtric’s face crumpled with emotion and he surged forward to capture your lips with his.

He worshipped every inch of your skin, kissing you in places you had never been kissed before. Pulling you apart with his hands and tongue before he had even pressed himself inside of you and you looked like a goddess underneath the glow of the fire.

“I should not be allowed to look upon you, let alone touch you,” he whispered.

You never knew love could feel this way. You were used to pain and punishment and being used for the satisfaction of your husband who never looked upon your face, you kept expecting Sihtric to flip you over and press your face against the wood, but he commanded you to keep your eyes on him at all times, and when you took the cross necklace in your hands and pulled him to you to kiss his lips he came inside you, collapsing down on top you, arms swooping underneath you to pull you to him, and tears slipped down your cheeks to know this would be the last time you had him like this.

“I have loved you all this time,” he admitted into your hair, he had pulled you close, encapsulating you in his strong arms, so that you may fall asleep together, and you snuggled in tight to his warmth as sleep began to overtake you.

“As I have loved you,” you replied drowsily. 

The next day Uhtred, Finan and Osferth arrived with horses and food, which you and Sihtric gladly ate before packing up and beginning the trek back to Aylesbury

When you stopped to make camp for the night, it was Osferth who offered you some furs and carried you over some stale bread and cheese whilst Sihtric was deep in conversion with Uhtred and Finan.

“Thank you Osferth,” you told him kindly.

“You know who I am?” he asked gently and you looked at him sadly and smiled before reaching out to grasp his arm “You are my brother,” you told him honestly and he sniffed and looked away.

“Your bastard brother,” he said bitterly, although it was not aimed at you.

“Am I your sister?” you asked him, and he turned to look at you with soft eyes, “You are.”

“Well then,” you said, squeezing his arm gently, “You are my brother.”

You broke some of the bread he had given you and offered it to him, and the tears in his eyes spoke volumes about how much this meant to him.

That night Sihtric snuck into your arms again, as Finan kept watch and you fell asleep once more in his embrace.

Finan, looked on in sympathy, they had all seen the way you two were around each other and he knew it could only end in pain for his Danish friend. 

When you finally reached Mercia Aethelflaed nearly knocked the wind from your lungs with the embrace she gave you, and she turned your face in her hands to examine your cut lip and marked face, 

She provided you with clean clothes and her servants washed you in warm water and when you finally joined her for dinner, Sihtric’s eyes were immediately on you.

When you finally relayed the whole story to her about your uncle’s betrayal and your husband’s own plans with the Danes her face was grim.

“Maybe we can convince him to accept a divorce and the promise of no interference from Wessex and Mercia?” Aldhelm suggested “If Edward will agree to it.”

“Edward is proud,” Uhtred offered “But if he knew the whole story, he might.”

The doors to the Great Hall suddenly opened with a bang and a group of men marched their way inside led by none other than your brother and following behind was your husband.

“Is she here?” Edward demanded, eyes searching the table until his eyes landed on yours and the fury within them made you shrink.

“Edward!” Aethelflaed pleaded, affronted by his lack of regard in her hall.

“Be silent you!” he spat “My own sister commits treason and the other steals her away from her husband in the night in an attempt to thwart justice. And not one person thought to inform their King.”

Everyone was standing and Sihtric was beside you in a heartbeat.

“I am not going back!” you cried and Edward’s nose flared “You will do as you are told!”

“You are in my country,” Athelflaed warned “And you will not march into my hall and make demands. We will talk about this calmly and rationally.” 

Edward banged his fists on the table causing Athelflaed to jump “There is no discussion to be had,she is going back to her husband to answer for her crimes against Kent and Wessex.”

You swiped Sihtric’s dagger from its pelt and held the blade to your throat, “I will end my life here of my own volition, but I will never return to him.”

“No!” Aethelflaed and Sihtric begged you to put the blade down.

“Do it and be done,” your husband sneered and Edward regarded him from the corner of his eye.

“Everyone out! Leave me to talk to my sisters. Out!” he commanded.

You lowered the dagger slowly and Sihtric took it from you with shaking hands and wide eyes. 

“Sihtric,” Uhtred called but he remained frozen to his spot in front of you.

“Sihtric,” Aethelflaed said a little more softly “She will be safe,” Sihtric nodded slowly before making to depart with Uhtred and his men.

“You too!” Sihtric spat at your husband who had remained as if he was exempt from Edward’s order.

“Sihtric, you need to cool it,” Uhtred warned his friend who was glaring daggers at your turd of a husband “You are too close to her, you will give yourself away and put her in more danger.”

Sihtric’s face pulled up into a frown and Uhtred softened, “She is being accused of sleeping with Danes, that is a lie, but do not make her accusations become true by exposing your love now!” 

Uhtred was right, but that did not make it any easier for Sihtric to swallow.

“Where did you find the letter?” Edward asked, resting his chin on his joined hands.

“It was buried between the pages of the Lord Sigebriht’s bible,” you all but whispered, “Father’s bible was stripped from me when I was banished from Godwin’s chambers, I requested another and that was the one brought to me.”

“And Godwin’s collaboration with the Danes, how did you learn this?”

“The head of his household guard used to come to my chambers drunk to torment me. One night he came boasting that I was to be given to the Danish leader in exchange for free passage through Kent into Wessex. My husband has wanted an excuse to rid of me so he may marry his mistress, she is pregnant with another of his children as we speak.”

Edward slumped down into his chair and ran his hands over his face.

“The Danes were in Canterbury upon his request, they did not attack of their own volition,” Aethelflaed added.

“Brother,” you cried crouching down beside him and taking your hands in his “When have you ever known me to be dishonest. Have I not always done my duty for crown and country?”

Edward sighed and nodded, running a hand over your marked cheek

“From the day we were married he has hurt me, belittled me and defiled me but I stayed for my duty to you as your sister, and for our Father’s vision of England. I have never asked you for anything but now I am pleading before you and God, release me from that man. Grant him divorce so he may marry his mistress and I will stay here in Mercia and serve our sister, or I will go to Abbess Hild and take the vows, but I beg do not send me back to that man.”

“You would take the vows?” Edward asked sadly, “Commit your life to the monastery?”

“If that is what it takes,” you answered truthfully. You briefly thought about Sihtric standing outside the door and your heart sank, you knew there was no reality on Earth where you might be allowed to be together, and you had already asked enough from your brother this night.

“Will you ask Lord Uhtred to return,” he asked and you went to fetch the Lord.

“Godwin cannot go unpunished,” Aethelflaed hissed, “As long as he remains Kent will always offer free passage of the Danes into Wessex.”

“Agreed,” Edward nodded and then Uhtred was by his side.

“What would you suggest to do in my shoes Lord Uhtred?” he asked and Uhtred considered his words for a moment.

“You must be seen to do justice Lord King,” he replied “If he tells lies and he communicates with enemies perhaps removing him of his tongue would forbid him from ever doing this kind of damage again.” 

“My Father let my uncle live when he should have put a knife through his heart.”

“He should have,” Uhtred agreed “But it was his poisoned tongue that did the damage, it is that that should have been cut from him, not an eye.” 

“Have my household guard seize the Lord Godwin,” Edward instructed Uhtred, “There is to be a trial in the morning.” 

You dropped to your knees and buried your head in your brother's hands as you thanked him over and over and over again

You were not taking Sihtric’s departure well. You could not eat and many nights you found yourself laying in bed, candles burning down to the wick as you stared up at the ceiling in tears.

You had gone to see him the night before he was to depart Mercia, and even if you kissed him a thousand times it would never have been enough.

“I would marry you,” he had whispered into the night even though you both knew that it was impossible and you took his hand to your chest so that he may feel your heart beating.

“As long as I have breath in my lungs, my heart belongs to you and you only,” you promised him.

And the next day you watched him ride away with grace, holding back the tears until you could slink away to your room and you thought then that your tears would become an ocean. 

You were grateful to Edward for allowing you to stay in Mercia with your sister because at least you had her comfort and the company of little Aelfwynn to occupy some of your lonely days.

“She is a wretch without him,” Aethelflaed whispered one day to Aldhelm, who looked on in sympathy at your plight.

And time passed by in a haze of filling your days surrounded by those you loved and endless nights staring up at the wooden beams of your room, remembering what it was to have Sihtric’s arms around you.

And then the sickness came, you could not move more than a few paces without vomiting and you could barely hold any of your meals down and Aethelflaed was so concerned she called for both a laece to come and partake in the letting of your blood and a healer to give you herbs in an attempt to make you well again.

“I refuse to lose you now Sister,” she had cried over your sleeping form whilst the laece attached the leeches to your arm.

It was however the healer who discovered what illness you were plagued with; you were with child.

“The child is Sihtric’s?” Aethelflaed asked softly when you were finally able to make it out of bed and all you could do was stare at your feet as you nodded solemnly. 

“The child will be born a bastard unless you claim it is Godwin’s,” she said downcast.

“No,” you cried hysterically, hand instinctively flying to your stomach “That man can have no claim to my child!”

“Y/n,” she hissed. “Don’t you understand unless you do this your child will be sent to the monasteries to be raised as a bastard, you will be forbidden to see them, our Mother will ensure to it.”

“I will marry him,” you pleaded. “He said that he would marry me. I want to go to him. Let me marry him, please Aethelflaed I beg of you.”

“You cannot,” she cried, “My darling girl, the daughter of Alfred cannot marry a Dane, let alone bear his child.”

She took your hand and directed her gaze towards her own little girl who was playing unaware “I know this better than anyone.”

You allowed her to pull you to her as you cried helplessly upon her shoulder.

You were standing under the summer sun watching Aelfwynn play, her laughter filled the air and you watched her dance under sunbeams, spinning wildly and you suddenly felt a jolt of lightning shoot through your body and the thought of the little life growing inside you.

Your baby would be half of Sihtric. Testimony to the love you had shared for years now, and even if it boiled down to just that one night of passion it had meant more to you than any other interaction your whole life.

You thought about Osferth. About Edward's two small children, denounced and forced to grow up in religious orders away from their parents, and about Sihtric himself, all children who had never known love, only punishment for the actions of their parents and your mind was made up.

If there was punishment to come, if it meant forever to be disowned by your family, to never speak to your own mother again, then you would endure it. You would receive the punishment so that your own child would grow up in a house where they knew they were loved and even though it would kill you to walk away from your sister, you knew you had to go to Sihtric.

You left in the night with nothing but the clothes upon your back, and you rode for three days in your condition until you tracked him down.

When you broke the news he fell upon his knees and placed his head upon your stomach, his hands rubbing the swell of skin there and he was crying.

“I have nothing to offer you both,” he cried and you carded your fingers through his hair.

“All we need is your love,” you promised him.

“Y/n you have lived a life of privilege, all I have is a tiny home, I am not a rich man you will not have the riches you are accustomed to.”

“Sihtric, I have known privilege my whole life and none of it matters a wit to how you make me feel, I would rather have nothing with you than everything without you.”

He rose and cupped your face, eyes swimming in emotion “Your family will disown you.”

“Yes,” you replied but you had made your peace with that, “Initially, but this too will pass and I know Aethelflaed will never truly turn her back on me, my Mother however, I know she will be lost to me.”

Sihtric swiped his thumb over your cheek and his eyes darted down to your lips.

“I am the most selfish man in the world to allow you to do this but I am running out of will to try and talk you into walking away. I have loved you for as long as I can remember,” he whispered.

“So stop trying to send me away,” you laughed and he laughed a short breathy laugh.

“You know. Surely you must know, that everything I do, I do it for you. For your happiness. For your protection.”

“And I appreciate it but Sihtric you cannot change my mind on this. My heart is set on you.” 

Uhtred damn near had a stroke when the two of you went before him in the morning to ask for permission to marry.

“You will forever be at the loss of your family,” he tried to reason and you smiled softly at Osferth.

“Not all of my family, I have a brother who was also ostracised and he has turned out just fine. If he will have me as his sister, I will not be alone.”

“Always,” he smiled, cheeks tinged pink.

“Well then, not all of my family,” you confirmed.

“Aethelflaed will have me murdered,”Uhtred protested.

“She will forgive you as she always does,” you remained steadfast.

“The Lady Aelswith-”

“-Has stripped enough children away from loving parents, she will not be taking my child away unless it is from my dead breast.”

“Sihtric?” Uhtred pleaded, begging his friend to talk some sense.

“It has been her from the moment I laid eyes upon her Lord,” he said and Uhtred had no choice but to relent, for he himself had always been free to follow his own heart, Isolde, Gisela and Aethelflaed, how could he in good conscience deny you both your chance and so he consented.

And so you married.

In time you would carry three more children for Sihtric who remained the light of your whole life.

You were happier in this part of life that you had ever been before, even if you never got to make amends with Edward before he died and even if Aethelflaed had to meet you in secret before she too passed away.

Sometimes in the middle of the night Sihtric would whisper into the darkness asking if you ever regretted your decision and your answer always remained the same.

Never, not once.

Tagging:

@canyonmoon-2 @sihtricfedaraaahvicius @whitedarkmoonflower @thenameswinter99 @foxyanon

@acdassenza @thatawkwardlittlefangirl @gemini-mama

@troyottonick @alexagirlie

a-beaverhausen nebulamorada izzydlb knight-of-flowerss

justcuriousandbored

[thenameswinter99]

Don't worry, I'm here for the rescue!

It's not so bloody like the others but still... It's the best I could find lol!

“why’s he always covered in blood” he needs enrichment. What’s not clicking

[sihtricfedaraaahvicius]

Broken Hearted Lovers

note: a requested fic by @scorpioada, thank you so much for the request! I really enjoyed writing this one and I hope it's what you had in mind. This fic turned out way longer than I expected, oops. I did proof read, but there could be some mistakes left, sorry!

warnings: 18+. angst/fluff/suggestive. mention of alcohol, heartbreak and being cheated on, but know that this fic is actually rather light and fluffy!

pairing: modern!Sihtric x fem!reader (no use of Y/N)

summary: After your ex kicked you out of his house, you are forced to move in with your brother, Uhtred. And while you were dealing with your broken heart, you couldn't ignore the feelings that resurfaced upon seeing Sihtric, because he had secretly been your life long crush.

word count: 9,4k

Masterlist

Reblogs & comments are immensely appreciated.

Being Uhtred's sister wasn't always easy. You were only a few years younger than him, but he was as protective as an older brother could be. In the streets, the other kids used to stay clear of him, while in school most kids wanted to join him and his friend group. Uhtred and his friends were named 'the pretty boys', because surely they were all good looking, even as youngsters. And there was one friend of your brother in particular who you always had a crush on, for as long as you could remember, and that was Sihtric.

You and Uhtred were close, so you often hung out with him while his friends were around too. You would do your own thing usually, like playing with dolls or dressing up. But sometimes the guys would help you build a fort out of blankets and furniture, and other times you joined them to play a couple of video games. However, playing games with Finan, Osferth and Sihtric was always short lived, as none of the boys ever showed mercy on you. So after a couple of losses you'd always storm off in tears, only to feel even more embarrassed when Uhtred made his friends apologize to you for making you cry.

But despite all of that, they were Uhtred's friends and you were just the younger sister, so Uhtred's fellow pretty boys knew you would always be more or less off limits to them, and they never had an issue with that as they grew up. They kept their respectable distance as you all got to the age of dating and clubbing, but they weren't shy to chase away anyone who could end up hurting you, or was simply bothering you on nights out. Which also meant that for most of your life every guy you were somewhat interested in was afraid to get near you, as they knew they'd have to get past Uhtred and the pretty boys first. You always hoped that once you had passed your teens you would be able to escape your brother's protective nature, but the dating problem remained as everyone in town knew far too well who your brother was.

You never stopped crushing on Sihtric though, but as you both matured over the years you had also been the unfortunate witness to his dating life. It was always a painful jab in the face to see him with someone. Until one day you woke up and just felt it was time to get over those silly feelings for him, because you knew Sihtric would only ever see you as Uhtred's younger sister.

After some time you ended up with a decent job and you shared an apartment with some friends in a different town, free of Uhtred's protection, and you finally participated in the dating scene. A handful of guys were boyfriend potential over the years, but every time you brought someone over to meet Uhtred, your brother would make sure to show his disapproval and chase them away. And so your dating life was still disastrous because of that, but you also couldn't pretend that you didn't still feel butterflies whenever you saw Sihtric. 

You only saw him a few times a year, when Uhtred threw a party or when you'd come over to surprise visit your brother during a weekend off. You saw Sihtric with all kinds of haircuts over the years, and each cut had made him look as good as ever. You hated how you couldn't get over him. But once you heard he had gotten married, you told yourself to stop being so stupid and delusional. 

You threw yourself in the dating scene again and ended up with a guy named Eardwulf. You and him worked out, for a while, since you never mentioned him to Uhtred. Until it was too late…

'What do you mean you have a boyfriend?!' Uhtred half yelled, his face pale as he tried to accept the fact his younger sister had been secretly dating.

'Had a boyfriend,' you sniffled.

Only a few days ago you found out that Eardwulf, your secret boyfriend of almost two years, had cheated on you multiple times throughout your supposedly committed relationship. You felt so betrayed and disgusted by him that you couldn't stand being around him anymore. And on that note he had kicked you out of his house, leaving you with no place to go. You had packed your belongings and left to the one person who would have warned you about him if he had known; your brother. Uhtred was furious at first and demanded you to tell him your ex's address, but you told him to forget it because it was all over anyway.

'But why on earth did you move in with this Earthworm guy without talking to me?!' Uhtred asked, angry and confused.

He still felt unwell knowing you had lived with a man, and therefore probably also had slept with a man. He shivered visibly at the thought.

'Because that was my freedom!' you threw your hands up. 'I finally found a guy who liked me, at least I thought, and after a year of dating I moved in with him. It meant that I sort of had a place of my own. No more sharing the kitchen and shower with housemates. I finally had privacy and someone who I believed I could build a future with,' you said with a sob, 'but I was so wrong… and now I have nowhere to go.'

Uhtred had sighed and, once the colour on his face had somewhat returned, he told you to not worry about a place to stay. You could move in with him for a while, until you'd find an affordable and decent place to live at again. And so you moved in with Uhtred that very same day. 

His spare bedroom wasn't very big, but it would do for the time being. You cheered the room up a little by unpacking some of your decor. You placed several candles on the dusty shelves and hung a few picture frames on the empty walls. Uhtred told you he'd be out for a moment to get some groceries, and he informed you that he had a friend coming over later, but that they wouldn't keep you up late and they'd be quiet. You shrugged at that and took a refreshing shower, after which you treated yourself to a thorough skin care routine in absolute silence, with only some music blasting in your ears through your earpods. And after you had rinsed your face, you decided to go and pour yourself a well needed drink in the kitchen, knowing your brother always had more than enough liquor at home.

But instead of that well needed drink, you got the scare of a lifetime when you walked out of the still hot and steaming bathroom. While wearing fluffy pink booty shorts with a matching bra, you found a homeless looking man standing in the kitchen with his back turned to you, and your heart skipped numerous beats upon spotting the intruder.

'Jesus fucking Christ!' you screamed and almost fell on your ass, your earpods falling out of your ears at the sudden jump backwards.

'What the fuck!' the man also slightly jumped, and knocked over the shot glass he had just filled up.

He managed to save the bottle from clattering onto the wooden floor, and he quickly turned to look at who on earth had almost ended his life early. You stared back at him; his shoulder length hair was dark and clearly uncombed, but his facial hair was rather well kept. His white shirt had some holes in it, his black sweatpants had clear tomato sauce stains on them, and to top it off you saw one of his toes sticking out of a hole in his grey socks.

'Who the fuck are you!?' you shrieked, your back pressed against the bathroom door.

'Me?!' the man yelled, leaning back against the kitchen counter, 'who the hell are you?! Where's Uhtred? He didn't warn me that he had one of his fuck buddies over-'

'Fuck buddies?!' you shouted over him, with a face of disgust, 'Uhtred has fuck buddies?!'

'Of course he does!' the man snarled as he looked you up and down, 'and they all look… you know,' he gestured at your outfit, 'they dress like you!'

'Like me?!'

You gagged at the words while the spooked man in the kitchen kept his distance, waiting for you to reveal who you were while he was also ready to grab a knife from the kitchen island that separated you. He would chase you away, if he had to. You stared at him as you took a cautious step closer, seeing his eyes were wide and… 

his eyes.

Your mouth went dry and you felt your cheeks heat up at the sight of his eyes, one bright and one dark. And only then you noticed the familiar scars on his face, half hidden behind thick strands of messy hair. You became light headed with your knees weakened when you realised who you had just walked into.

'S-Sihtric?' you stammered, 'is that… you?'

'Maybe,' Sihtric half growled, his eyes darting between you and the knife on the counter, 'depends who's asking.'

He remained in a cautious state, wetting his lips with his tongue while his eyes were still wide and darting between you and the knife. You followed his eyes and then took a step back again, remembering that Sihtric was pretty good with weapons as a kid already, always carrying a pocket knife back then. And you were utterly convinced that it was Sihtric who was in front of you. He had changed, absolutely. He was a man now, but you would recognise those eyes anywhere.

'Sihtric!' you yelled, 'it's me, you fool!'

Sihtric looked at you and squinted his eyes, as if he couldn't see clearly, but then suddenly his eyes widened again as his jaw dropped, and he gasped with both shock and relief when he finally recognised you.

'What,' Sihtric said, 'when… when the hell did you grow up looking like that?!'

'Looking like what?' you made a face, 'what is that supposed to mean?!'

'You… you were… you are Uhtred's little sister!' Sihtric scoffed, 'you… you know,' he panicked and tried to look anywhere but at you, 'you're not supposed to look like… like-'

'Like what!?'

'Like one of Uhtred's girls!' Sihtric yelled and threw his hands up, then covered his eyes for a moment, 'gods, why are you barely dressed?!'

'Excuse me?' you hissed and rolled your eyes, 'Jesus fucking Christ, Sihtric,' you sighed and walked over to grab the bottle of liquor next to him, purposely bumping into his shoulder as you did, 'you've never seen a woman in lounge wear before?!'

Sihtric stammered something inaudible as he watched you grab another shot glass from the cupboard. You poured yourself a drink and downed the liquor in one go, and you made a face as the burning sensation went down your throat, while Sihtric was still gaping at you.

'How on earth did you get in here?' you asked, your voice raspy because of the strong alcohol.

'I… I have a key.'

'Why the hell do you have a key to Uhtred's place?'

'Because,' Sihtric began with confidence, but then stopped talking and mumbled inaudibly again as he went to clean up his spilled drink.

'What did you say?' you gave him a curious look.

'I've been spending a lot of time here,' Sihtric finally said as he poured himself a new shot, 'Uhtred gave me a key so I can let myself in when he's not home yet.'

'What? You mean like… you live here?'

'No,' Sihtric said. He downed the alcohol quickly and made the same face as you had done, and then wiped his mouth with the back of his hand. 'I don't live here, but I come here when I'm having a rough day. Uhtred knows I was coming over today.'

'Rough day?' you snorted, 'yeah, looks like you've been having a lot of rough days, huh?'

Sihtric frowned, and you pointed at his clothes.

'Fuck,' he muttered as he looked down at himself, 'I'm… I'm sorry for this. If I knew someone would be here I'd have showered.'

'Just showered?' you raised an eyebrow.

'... And washed my clothes,' Sihtric added with clear embarrassment.

You stared at each other for a few long seconds. You were still in shock that your life long crush was suddenly right in front of you again. Sure, he looked a little rough, but every feeling you have ever had for him came right back up, and they hit you like a smack in the face. You couldn't even think straight whenever he gazed back at you. He was clearly shy and embarrassed by the way he looked, and he tried so hard to keep his eyes off you. You were Uhtred's sister, he knew he shouldn't be looking at you the way he did. But he couldn't help himself, because you looked like a dream to him, and he had never seen you like this before.

'What,' Sihtric said, but his voice faltered and he needed to clear his throat, 'what are you doing here… looking like that?'

'I found out my boyfriend-'

'You have a boyfriend?' Sihtric frowned, 'Uhtred never told us anything about that.'

 'Had a boyfriend,' you sighed, 'he cheated on me and kicked me out of his house.'

'Wait, you live with a guy?' he chuckled, 'does Uhtred know that?'

'I don't live with him anymore,' you rolled your eyes and walked around the kitchen island. 'And yeah, Uhtred knows now. That's why I'm here, I have no place to go. I'm staying here for a little while, until I get back on my feet.'

'Fuck,' Sihtric mumbled and joined you at the island, leaning on the marble surface across from you, 'I'm sorry to hear that.'

'Yeah,' you shrugged, 'it is what it is. But I still don't understand why you have a key to this place.'

'I recently got divorced,' Sihtric confessed, 'my ex-wife cheated on me, so I know how you feel there.'

'Jesus, Sihtric… I'm so sorry.'

Sihtric shrugged and forced a faint smile, then filled the two shot glasses up once more and pushed one your way.

'Here's to shitty exes,' he said with a pained smile, 'and to us, may we finally find our soulmate and receive the love we deserve.'

You clinked the shot glasses together before you each downed the drink. You then both made an unpleasant face again, and you couldn't help but laugh at each other and at how bizarre the situation was. But the laughter soon died down, after which you and Sihtric carefully gazed at each other again as you both leaned on opposite sides of the island.

'You look good,' Sihtric said softly, 'despite everything going on in your life, you know? I wouldn't know you're going through it if you hadn't told me.'

'Thank you,' you smiled shyly, 'you look…'

Sihtric furrowed his brow as he waited for your answer, suppressing a smile while he tried to look offended.

'I don't look good,' he chuckled, 'I know.'

'No,' you said quickly, 'you… you do look good, actually. It's just your clothes,' you laughed.

'Well,' Sihtric cleared his throat, 'I believe that as a recently divorced man, I have earned the right to wear the same clothes for weeks on end.'

'That's disgusting,' you laughed, 'but you do have the right to be dressed in pizza stained sweatpants, sure.'

'Well, we can't all be dressed in booty shorts and little pink bras,' Sihtric taunted.

'You should try it,' you grinned, 'I bet you'd look sexy.'

'Maybe. But nowhere nearly as sexy as you look,' Sihtric said with a wink.

He then laughed again at how stupid he had sounded, while you were clearly blushing at his words.

'You're saying my little sister is what now, Sihtric?' Uhtred suddenly asked.

You and Sihtric both jumped at the sound of Uhtred's voice, and you made haste to grab a random towel off the kitchen counter to cover yourself a little up for your brother.

'That's… you heard that out of context,' Sihtric said quickly, 'I swear I didn't… I wasn't hitting on your sister.'

'He wasn't!' you agreed, knowing how Uhtred could be, 'it was my fault. I didn't know someone was here when I came out of the bathroom. I… I should've dressed up decently.'

'You should,' Uhtred said sternly, 'and you will, now! And you,' he looked at Sihtric, 'you will not be looking at my sister!'

'I will not,' Sihtric said, his eyes fixated on his own worn out socks.

You ran past Uhtred and to your room, where you slammed the door shut before you jumped in bed and hid under the covers. Your whole body felt as if it was on fire. Your heart was beating out of your chest and your cheeks were burning so brightly, you couldn't possibly show yourself again. You buried your face in your pillow, fighting all the feelings that had resurfaced so easily upon seeing Sihtric again. But you were also fighting the smile on your flushed face, due to the fact that he had clearly been checking you out. Sihtric might be recently divorced and a bit of a mess right now, but you were more than sure that he was somewhat flirting while you had shared that drink together. 

But still, you felt awkward and hungry, and you needed something to eat. But instead of joining your brother and his friend in the kitchen for dinner a little later, you only snuck out while they were gaming on the couch, and you grabbed a plate of food with you to eat alone in your bedroom, not knowing Sihtric had glanced over his shoulder to get one last look at you that night.

A few days had passed when Sihtric came over again, and this time you were both decently dressed upon greeting each other. Uhtred had informed you of Sihtric's arrival beforehand, so you had put on an oversized shirt to cover yourself. And Sihtric in turn had made the effort to wear some clean clothes and to tie his long hair back in a bun. Only then you noticed he had an undercut, which was freshly shaved by the looks of it, as you could clearly see the tattoo that ran from his neck up to the side of his head and into his hair. And even Uhtred noticed how his friend looked cleaned up again for once, after a few long weeks of not being able to really take care of himself, and your brother couldn't help pointing it out as you all ate dinner together.

'Yeah,' Sihtric said quietly, 'I figured a part of healing is looking after myself too.'

'That's a good start,' you smiled at him.

And Sihtric smiled softly at you in return. But your smiles lasted a little too long for Uhtred's liking, so he cleared his throat loudly to break the ongoing eye contact you and Sihtric had.

'Oh, Uhtred,' you changed the topic, feeling your cheeks were heating up, so you turned the attention to your brother, 'how many fuck buddies do you have?'

Sihtric choked on his drink while Uhtred dropped his fork in pure horror, and both men stared at you with big eyes. Sihtric hid a grin behind his hand, trying his hardest to not laugh as he coughed, while Uhtred blinked rapidly as he processed your unexpected question.

'I beg your pardon?' Uhtred managed to ask.

'Yeah, I heard about your girls,' you said, subtly ratting out Sihtric, who gave you a light kick under the table. 'And I just want to make sure I won't ever walk in here on something,' you said.

'You won't ever walk in on something!' Uhtred snarled and glanced at Sihtric for a split second when his friend snorted, and he then looked back at you, 'and the same goes for you, young lady! I don't ever want you to bring a guy here, is that clear? I don't ever want to walk in on something either!'

'Fine,' you shrugged and got up from the table.

You returned to your bedroom, giving the guys their usual time to play some video games in the evening. But you didn't leave the room before flashing Sihtric a grin, knowing that Uhtred would definitely have a word with Sihtric about running his mouth to you about his private life.

As the weeks continued, you slowly picked yourself up again and every day you felt a little better. But that didn't mean that you weren't hurting anymore. Because you still had your emotional and low energy days, on which your break up just hurted a little more. But you couldn't deny the fact that seeing Sihtric a few times a week, even if it was only briefly during dinner sometimes, definitely made you feel better and made it easier to forget about your shitty ex. But when you did have an off day, it seemed that nothing and no one could cheer you up. At least, not until Sihtric had tried it.

'She's not eating with us today?' Sihtric asked when your seat at the dinner table remained empty one evening.

'No,' Uhtred sighed sadly, 'she's been in her room all day again, crying. I just don't know what to do. Everytime she seems to be going good for a few days, she has one bad day like this, and then all she does is cry and hide. She refuses to eat too, I don't get it.'

'Heartbreak messes with your appetite,' Sihtric said, clearly speaking of experience, 'have you talked to her today?'

'Not really, she won't let me in her room,' Uhtred threw his hands up, 'so I gave up, you know?'

'Do you think I can talk to her?'

'You?' Uhtred scoffed lightly, 'she doesn't want to talk to me, why would she want to talk to you?'

'Uhtred,' Sihtric sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose, 'me and her, we've both been cheated on. And, no offense, but you don't know what that feels like. You don't understand what that does to someone because, and again no offense, you've been the cheater ever so often in your relationships.'

Uhtred looked at his friend, stunned and mildly hurt even. He knew he hadn't been a loyal boyfriend, but he never even considered that he had been hurting women the same way his little sister had been hurt by someone, and he felt a pang. He wanted to help you, but he knew that Sihtric was right, because he could never understand the pain you felt which was identical to the pain that he himself had caused so many others before.

'Let me talk to her,' Sihtric pushed politely, 'let me at least try.'

'Fine,' Uhtred shrugged, trying to hide his inner conflict, 'go ahead. But if she throws something at you, then that's your own fault.'

'I'll take the risk,' Sihtric chuckled softly and got up from the table.

You had been hiding away almost all day already, only leaving your room for a brief moment to get yourself a drink and a sandwich when Uhtred was taking a shower earlier that day. You couldn't talk to your brother, he would never understand how you felt, and you didn't have the heart to call him a cheater in his face, no matter how much you wanted to. You were angry today, angry at everyone and everything, when suddenly a soft knock on your door interrupted your sniffling.

'Leave me alone,' you said weakly.

'It's Sihtric,' his voice sounded muffled through your door, 'are you okay?' 

Your heart stopped for a moment after hearing his voice, and you quickly wiped your tears with the blanket you had been hiding under all day.

'I'm fine,' you lied after a few long seconds.

'Are you?' Sihtric asked and cautiously opened your door.

He waited for a few seconds, then stepped in your darkened room when you didn't yell or throw anything at him, and you even allowed him to switch on a light.

'I'm fine,' you said again and hid your face.

'No you're not,' he said and closed the door behind him, 'but that's okay.'

Sihtric sat down next to you on your bed, at a comfortable distance as he allowed you to decide for yourself if you wanted to talk or not. And you desperately needed to talk, but you didn't want to constantly bother your own friends. Uhtred was the only one always around, but he had no idea how to handle your emotional breakdowns over some guy he had never even met; some guy he wanted to strangle with his bare hands. Uhtred would get angry whenever he saw you cry. Not angry at you, but angry at the man who had hurt you. And that always made him realise he was one of those kinds of men too, and it had gnawed at him. And it still gnawed on him, so much even that when he saw how you allowed Sihtric to come into your room, he had shoved his plate aside on the dinner table and left the apartment, as he needed to go for a walk and clear his head.

'I'm just so embarrassed,' you sniffled quietly, 'why do I cry over some stupid guy who cheated on me?'

'Because you loved him,' Sihtric said, compassionately, 'I get it, because I've been there. And sometimes I'm still in that place too. You wouldn't believe how many nights I still cry in bed.'

'You do?' you finally looked at him, 'how long has it been?'

'I do,' Sihtric sighed softly, 'it's been a few months since we separated. The divorce still needs to be finalised, but we're getting close.'

'I'm so sorry,' you whispered and started to cry again.

'Don't be,' Sihtric whispered and instinctively wrapped his arms around you, 'and don't feel embarrassed for crying either. I sure as hell am not ashamed that I still get upset sometimes. Because I know why I cry.'

'Why?' you asked, your face buried in his warm chest, 'because you miss your ex wife?'

'Oh, no,' Sihtric laughed softly, 'I don't miss her at all, and I definitely don't cry for her. I cry because I miss the life I had in a way. I miss the company mostly. I was used to coming home to someone. To have dinner with someone, to talk to someone and to fall asleep with someone. And I think that's the hardest part, missing that company. I feel lonely very often, and then I get stuck in my head. But I don't want my ex back, never,' he emphasized, 'and I'm pretty sure that you don't want your ex back either, do you?'

'Never!' you said and sat back, looking up at Sihtric as you wiped your tears again, 'I never want him back.'

'I know,' Sihtric smiled softly, 'because we both don't miss the people we were with, but we miss the company we had. And it's okay to miss that, you have to allow those feelings too. And that's what makes us different from them. Because we feel, and they clearly don't feel anything, why else would they hurt us like that? And I think it's important that we continue to feel, even if it hurts sometimes. Because we can't let them ruin the good in us, we can't let people like them ruin the fact we are able to love so deeply while they can't.'

'You are right,' you said after a moment, and you hugged him again, 'thank you.'

'Are you feeling a little better?'

'I am.'

'Good,' Sihtric smiled and got up from your bed, 'I think you should eat something. There's some dinner left in the oven, it should still be warm. I can bring it to you if you like?'

'No,' you got up too, 'I appreciate that, but I'll eat with you guys.'

'Well,' Sihtric chuckled after he had opened your door again and found the apartment empty, 'I think it's just me.'

'Did Uhtred leave again?' you rolled your eyes, 'he always does that.'

'I might have upset him,' Sihtric said, 'he struggled that you were feeling upset, and that he didn't know how to help you. So I told him that's because in relationships he has been a cheater. And he is clearly aware of that, but it's only now that he understands what effect that has on someone. And I think he didn't like hearing that.'

'It was about time he heard that,' you shrugged.

Sihtric agreed and went into the kitchen to get you a plate with some food. You joined him and quietly ate your dinner, while Sihtric was just scrolling on his phone for a while until Uhtred came back. Your brother was happy to see you had gotten out of your room and ate something, but he still didn't quite know how to behave around you. Sihtric felt the awkward tension and suggested playing some video games, as usual. Normally you declined spending time with them during their gaming, but you needed the distraction so you agreed to tag along for one evening. And you were glad you did, because you got to sit next to Sihtric and, as the evening progressed, you both became more relaxed and comfortable, resulting in your shoulders resting against each other while your eyes were fixated on the big tv screen in front of you. Uhtred was glad he didn't have to try and cheer you up, and as he was so focused on winning each round of Mario Kart, he didn't even notice that you and Sihtric sat a little too close for his liking, had he seen it.

But you enjoyed it, leaning into Sihtric while he leaned into you, feeling the warmth of his body and comfortable weight pressing against your side. It made you feel warm and safe, a little giddy even, and it was hard for you to focus on the game with him so close by your side. He smelled so nice too, it was comforting, and he radiated calmness and warmth to you. You wished that every day could be like that, but you also knew that Uhtred would never allow it if he'd find out.

You and Sihtric continued to bond and heal as time went on. All while Uhtred never once noticed the way you looked at Sihtric, or how he smiled at you, nor the way you and him sat shoulder to shoulder every time you joined the guys for a few rounds of playing video games. Uhtred was just glad that you and Sihtric both seemed to feel better, that he never even considered the reason you both were slowly becoming happy again was because of each other. And therefore Uhtred also wasn't even bothered when you and Sihtric got a drunk and danced together at the party your brother was throwing in his apartment.

You were a little more drunk than Sihtric was and, while the party was far from over, he decided to help you back to your room when you could barely stand on your legs anymore. You both stumbled into your bedroom, where Sihtric closed the door for some privacy before he walked you over to your bed. He tried to carefully lower you down onto the mattress, but the room was spinning for him too, so it didn't take long before you both fell in bed and had a laughing fit. And after the laughter died down and the loud music still sounded outside your closed door, you and Sihtric just laid there, shoulder to shoulder, staring up at the spinning ceiling while your thoughts wandered.

'You know,' you slurred after a moment, 'I think… you're really hot, Sihtric.'

'What?' he snorted.

'I said,' you dragged out your words, 'I think you're really hot.'

'Oh,' Sihtric chuckled, 'okay.'

'Okay?'

'I mean… thank you?'

'Do you think I'm hot?' you pouted and sat up.

Your eyes were heavy and your cheeks rosy as you stared down at the handsome man who lied next to you.

'Uhtred would behead me,' Sihtric laughed.

'Fuck Uhtred,' you hiccuped.

'I'd… I'd rather not,' he made a face of disgust.

'Huh?'

'What?'

'Do you think I'm hot?' you asked again.

'Of course,' Sihtric smiled and lightly trailed his fingers over your cheek, 'of course I do. But you,' he slightly panicked, 'y-you can't tell your brother.'

'My brother is stupid,' you sighed.

'He is sometimes.'

'Fuck me,' you blurted out.

'What?'

'You,' you giggled and took his hand, 'please?'

'I… I-... you mean, now?'

You laughed and leaned in, going for a kiss, but Sihtric stopped you and told you that you were both a little too drunk right now. You said you didn't care, and then suddenly blurted out how you've always had a crush on him and that you were done waiting around. You had wasted years of your life already, and you were done with that, you just wanted to be with him. Now.

'O-okay,' Sihtric blinked rapidly after your confession, 'well… then… okay.'

'Okay?'

'Yeah,' he shrugged, 'we… we can fuck, I guess.'

'Okay,' you smiled and went to take off your dress.

You got stuck in your dress and Sihtric had to help you out, but as he saw double too, it took him a moment to free you. You then laid back down on the bed, wearing just your lingerie. You pulled Sihtric on top of you, who almost fell over and crushed you in his drunk state, which you both laughed off while your hands roamed each other's warm bodies. You kissed his neck while you felt his hands run up your thighs, and you took off his shirt. You blushed even more as you took in the sight of his muscular body above you. Sihtric took your hands and kissed them, and he then told you to relax as he started to take off his belt. But he was more drunk than he had anticipated, because for minutes he fought with his belt and couldn't seem to unclasp it. And once he finally did and lowered his jeans, he looked down at you again, only to find out that you had fallen asleep. Sihtric laughed softly at that and got off you, then lied down next to you and pulled the sheets over you both, after which he fell asleep too.

You woke up late the next morning after the party, with a headache taunting you right away and you struggled to open your eyes for a moment. But once you opened your eyes properly, they surely stayed wide open, as you were shocked to find Sihtric sleeping next to you. And if him sleeping next to you wasn't enough of a shock, you found yourself in just your lingerie while Sihtric's jeans were unzipped and lowered to his knees. 

You tried to remember what had happened the night before, but everything was a blur. You didn't remember ending up in your room together with him, nor did you remember why you were both half undressed. The fact that you and him were still wearing your underwear told you that you most likely didn't have sex. But you weren't sure if you were relieved or disappointed at that.

You couldn't help but stare at Sihtric as he was next to you, peacefully asleep and so handsome, it was like a weird dream come true. But that dream could turn into a nightmare soon, as you suddenly heard Uhtred cough from the living room. You jumped out of bed, made haste to lock your bedroom door, and you then started to panic. There was no way Sihtric could leave your room unseen, and you both wouldn't live if Uhtred found out you had spent the night together. You yourself weren't even sure if anything had happened, so how were you going to convince your brother that nothing had happened?

You paced back and forth in your room, your head was still spinning and the headache was pounding behind your eyes. You then crawled back in bed and woke Sihtric, covering his mouth with your hand as soon as he woke so he couldn't betray his presence by talking.

'Uhtred is still home,' you whispered, 'you have to be quiet.'

Sihtric quickly understood where he was and the trouble that could come with it, so he stayed quiet and dealt with his own headache. You managed to sneak out of your room, leaving Sihtric behind in your bed. You greeted Uhtred and told him you were probably going to stay in bed all day to deal with the hangover, to which your brother laughed. You grabbed yourself a big cup of coffee and some breakfast that you could share with Sihtric, and once back in your room you locked the door again. 

You and Sihtric quietly discussed the night before, trying to figure out what had happened with the vague memories you both had, piecing them together to make more or less a whole story. You both came to the conclusion that you hadn't had sex, but neither of you were sure if you had kissed or not. 

'Undressing without even trying to kiss?' you whispered, 'did we do that?'

'I think you kissed my neck,' Sihtric whispered, 'do I have marks?'

You quickly checked his neck and found he did not have a mark, but you agreed that you probably had kissed his neck, as that sounded like something you would do. You did remember you called Sihtric hot, but you didn't want to bring that up as you felt embarrassed by how you had blurted that out. And Sihtric remembered that moment too, but he also didn't bring it up, because he remembered there was more to that story as well. He remembered your somewhat love confession too, but now was not the time to discuss that with your brother around in the same building.

'So, now what?' Sihtric whispered and put on his shirt, 'I stay here all day?'

'You'll have to sneak out when he goes to the bathroom or something,' you said, 'there is no other way. I'm sure he'll take a shower after he finishes his coffee.'

And you were right. Your brother dragged his feet past your bedroom door after an hour, going into the bathroom. And as soon as you heard the water run, you and Sihtric jumped up. Sihtric nearly tripped over his own feet as he tried to make haste to your door while putting on his black boots. He reached to unlock your door but then stopped, turned and looked at you.

'What are you doing?' you hissed, 'go!'

'Can I at least have your number?' Sihtric asked.

'Are you serious?' you scoffed, 'you… I mean, yes, you can have it, but you have to leave, now!'

'I will,' Sihtric calmed you, 'just give me your number.'

You quickly wrote your number on a sticky note and shoved it in his back pocket, you then unlocked the door and grabbed his hand, dragging him to the front door as quickly as you could.

'Text me,' you whispered as you pushed Sihtric out of the apartment.

'I will,' he smiled.

And for a moment it seemed as if everything went quiet, when you stared into each other's eyes and slowly leaned in closer. Sihtric pulled you close and cupped your cheek, going in for the kiss he had been longing for since you had scared him that first evening in the kitchen. You felt his warm breath on your skin, his lips grazing yours lightly before wanting to capture you in that long overdue kiss. But before he could do that, you gasped and gave him a light shove. Because it hadn't just seemed as if everything had gone quiet around you, it actually had gone quiet. The wat

er wasn't running anymore, and you had no idea how long it had been since Uhtred had gotten out of the shower once you noticed it.

'Go!' you hissed, 'and text me!'

And you then quietly slammed the door in Sihtric's face, who was still smiling regardless of the rushed goodbye.

After that morning the sneaking around started. 

It began subtly, since Sihtric used to come over a lot anyway. But there was now a tension between the two of you, after sending each other numerous flirty and risky texts since that party. Uhtred never paid attention to you and Sihtric sitting next to each other on the couch, and he never noticed the smirks and mischievous looks you exchanged either. And sometimes, while playing video games or watching a movie, you and Sihtric would share a blanket. And underneath that blanket it would always start with light touches and secretly holding hands, but every now and then you'd carefully move your hand up his thigh and he'd do the same to you. And Uhtred never noticed a thing.

Whenever Uhtred would leave the room, you and Sihtric would gaze at each other and even lean in, wanting to finally steal that first kiss from each other's lips, but Uhtred would reappear every time before you could get that far.

And it didn't take long before Sihtric would start to come over when Uhtred was still at work, just so he could see you and have a moment alone. But even then, every time you and Sihtric tried to kiss or have a moment, Uhtred would simply barge in the door. You had suggested meeting up at Sihtric's place, but you were then told that he didn't have his own place.

'I've been living with Finan since my divorce, darling,' Sihtric had whispered one evening, when Uhtred was using the bathroom, 'if I take you back there, Finan will figure it out since he works from home. And there's a risk that he will tell Uhtred.'

'So we'll just have to keep this up until one of us finally gets their own place,' you had sighed.

It seemed that you and Sihtric were just doomed, terrified to tell your brother and friends about how you liked each other and just wanted to openly date, but the odds were against you. At least, it felt like that until you finally received some good news. 

After a few long weeks of yearning and aching, risky texts and late night phone calls, you learned that Uhtred was going to work evening shifts for a few months to cover for someone at his workplace. That meant that his and Sihtric's schedule would no longer overlap, and that you might actually have some alone time with your secret crush. And Sihtric was more than keen to grab that chance too, so on the first day of Uhtred's new shift, he showed up at the apartment a few hours after your brother had left.

'How long do we have?'

'He works from four till midnight,' you smiled.

You suddenly felt nervous after closing the door behind you, watching Sihtric walk over to the couch to sit down at his somewhat regular spot. And he was clearly nervous too, fidgeting with the several rings around his tattooed fingers and trying to subtly bounce his leg. You poured him and yourself a drink and sat next to him, both being unsure of what to say now that you were finally alone after all this time. 

But words weren't needed, you found. Because as soon as you both placed your empty glass on the salon table, you reached for each other and finally crashed into that long overdue kiss. And it was everything that you hoped it would be. It was gentle yet firm, and it was filled with passion and lust. And as you drowned in each other's outpour of love, he pulled you on his lap to kiss you even deeper. You raked your fingers through his loose hair as you straddled him, and he slowly hooked his fingers under the straps of your white silk negligee. He slowly lowered the straps, his warm hands following in the wake of the soft silk sliding down your arms. But just before the smooth fabric could expose you, you grabbed onto the negligee and kept your breasts covered.

'I want to take things slow,' you whispered against his lips.

'We will,' Sihtric murmured as he smiled, then kissed you again.

He picked you up and laid you down on the couch, and he climbed on top of you so he could continue to kiss you as he held you captive in his arms, lovingly. You made out for hours, just kissing and gently roaming your hands over each other's bodies, and neither of you could get enough of feeling one another. And you continued to kiss throughout the evening, making out wherever you could; on the couch, on the floor and on your bed. It didn't matter where you kissed, as long as you were kissing each other. And you kissed until Sihtric had to go, some time safely before your brother would arrive home.

Those secret meet ups went on for weeks. Every time Uhtred left for work, Sihtric would meet you a few hours later. You'd usually have dinner together and then cuddle up on the couch, only to end up making out until Sihtric had to leave again. Some evenings were hot and steamy, when the urge to be intimate was almost unbearable, but you still resisted due to the knowledge that on paper Sihtric was still married.

And some evenings were just cosy and sweet, when you and Sihtric joked around and built forts out of blankets, just like you had done sometimes when you were still kids. And some evenings, when Uhtred had a day off or Sihtric had to work late himself, you would sneak out of the apartment to meet Sihtric outside the building, no matter how briefly it was.

Sihtric always made you feel special. He'd show you how much he adored you by bringing you your favourite snack, or by bringing you one single rose every other day. He told you he'd bring you a dozen roses if he could, but then you'd have to explain to Uhtred where you'd get the flowers from. You appreciated every gesture, and every moment spent with him was special on its own. But one night in particular was special, even more special than any other night. It was the one evening when Sihtric came over, after Uhtred had left, showing up with a bottle of champagne under his arm.

'The divorce has been finalized,' he smiled and kissed you, 'I already was yours, but now we'll never have to worry about anyone else ever again.'

You were over the moon hearing the news, because Sihtric was finally yours and yours only. And that also meant that you finally felt ready to take your relationship to the next stage, which you did. You wasted no time pulling Sihtric inside the apartment, and his leather jacket was already on the floor before he could kick the door shut behind him. He picked you up in his arms and kissed you deeply while he carried you to your bedroom as he kicked his shoes off. He pushed the door open with his back and threw you on your bed. And there you undressed each other as you kissed, not drunk this time, and you finally made love which felt even better than you could've imagined. You both lasted surprisingly long, despite the aching longing you both had endured for months, and you continued to kiss passionately while you both came down from your highs.

Sihtric wrapped one arm around you as you sat next to him on the couch, later that evening and fully dressed again, and he pulled you close.

'You make everything go silent,' he whispered and kissed your hair, 'you are my peace, darling.'

'And you are mine, love,' you smiled and kissed his jaw, while your fingers trailed lightly over his arm.

'How many kids do you want?' he suddenly asked.

'Huh?' you laughed for a moment, 'gosh, I'm not sure. At least two. Maybe three. Not anytime soon,' you chuckled, 'but in a few years, yeah. What about you?'

'I also don't want kids right now,' Sihtric smiled, 'but in some years time, yes.'

'How many?'

'Oh, I'll give you as many as you'll allow me to give,' he said with a sly smile, then leaned in to kiss you deeply again, 'maybe we should practice a little more?'

And before you knew it, you were making out on the couch again, like every other night. Except this time you both froze and stared at each other with big eyes when you suddenly heard the lock of the front door click and open. You and Sihtric both wanted to move away from each other and sit up, but it was already too late, because Uhtred stood in the door and looked at you with pure horror. But that horror soon changed into anger, and before you could even say something, your brother was already storming towards Sihtric. Uhtred grabbed Sihtric's shirt and pulled him off you with fury in his eyes, and he shoved him away from you. Your brother wasn't sure who to yell at first, so you took the opportunity to tell Uhtred that it's not what he thinks it is.

'It is not?!' Uhtred snarled, 'his jacket is on the floor!' he pointed towards the leather jacket neither of you had bothered to pick up before, 'and his shoes are at your bedroom door. So tell me, what is this then!?'

Neither you or Sihtric spoke, still being too startled by being caught, and then you glanced at the clock on the wall.

'You aren't supposed to be home yet!'

'I texted you that I would be home earlier!' your brother hissed, 'but you probably never saw it, because you were too busy!' Uhtred paused to catch his breath, and he then pointed at Sihtric, 'you!' he barked, 'with my sister?!'

'We are both old enough-' Sihtric began, but Uhtred cut him off.

'I'll show you old enough!' Uhtred said and attempted to grab his shirt again, but you interfered by getting in between them.

'Why do you always have to ruin my relationships?!' you cried to your brother.

'What?'

'You!' you gave Uhtred a shove, 'you've ruined all those I told you about, ever since I was young! The only long lasting relationship I ever had was with my ex, because I never told you about it until he cheated!'

'And look where it got you!' your brother scoffed, 'and this?' he pointed between you and SIhtric, 'you weren't going to tell me about this either?'

'Why would I!' you yelled, 'you would never approve! You don't approve of anyone!'

'Damn straight I don't,' Uhtred said and he raised his hand, clearly meaning to slap Sihtric in his face, but you jumped in front of your boyfriend.

'No!' you screamed, 'don't you touch him!'

Uhtred grabbed your arm, wanting to drag you away from Sihtric, but the latter was quick to slap your brother's hand off of you, and he then pulled you in his arms.

'Don't you ever lay a finger on her,' Sihtric said calmly but threateningly.

Both men stared at each other in silence for a few long seconds, until Uhtred took a step back and scoffed as he shook his head.

'You two lied to me,' he said, 'sneaking around behind my back? In my apartment?'

'And how does that feel?' Sihtric retorted, 'what's it like for you to feel betrayed like that?'

Uhtred said nothing for a moment, then sniffed and scoffed again. 

'Leave,' he told Sihtric, 'you better leave right now, Sihtric Kjartansson, if you know what's good for you.'

'I'm not leaving here,' Sihtric said as he still held you, 'not without her.'

'And where are you gonna go?' Uhtred laughed, 'to Finan? He'll be thrilled to see you're bringing someone into his house. You know that's not an option, so where are you going?'

'I don't know,' Sihtric huffed, 'and I don't care. I'll figure it out. We will figure it out,' he squeezed you in his arms, 'because that's what you do when you love someone, Uhtred, you figure it out. You don't just leave or cheat. No, you stick by them and remain loyal. And you figure it the fuck out.'

You stared at your brother as he was silent again, absorbing the words Sihtric had just told him. And he was clearly contemplating between punching Sihtric in his face or giving you a piece of his mind, but he eventually did neither.

'You love her?' Uhtred asked after a moment, looking at his friend.

'I do,' Sihtric said without a doubt.

'And you?' Uhtred looked at you, 'do you love him?'

'I love him,' you sniffled, then looked up at Sihtric, 'I love you.'

'I love you too,' Sihtric whispered.

Uhtred paced back and forth for a moment, then threw his hands up and said, 'Fine. You stay, I will go.'

And without another word your brother left his apartment, going to god knows where and leaving you two behind, alone and startled. And you held each other after you both sat down on the floor, next to the kitchen island, processing everything that had just happened.

'Thank you for not leaving me,' you whispered after a while, as Sihtric dried your tears.

'You thought I would leave?'

'Every other guy always left me as soon as Uhtred interfered,' you sighed softly, 'so I figured this would be the same all over again.' 

'No,' Sihtric said softly and nuzzled your nose before he pecked your lips, 'I've known Uhtred for most of my life, and I'm not afraid of him. I know him. This reaction was expected, that's why I didn't fight him. I figured if he'd just punched me in the face he'd feel better, but you stopped him, and I thank you for that,' he chuckled, 'it's a lot nicer to not have a black eye.'

'I would never let him hurt you,' you smiled and took his chin, 'can't have your pretty face bruised now, can I?' you kissed his cheek.

'I would've lived,' Sihtric smiled with a faint blush on his face, 'but still, I appreciate it. It means a lot to know that you care about me. And as for Uhtred,' he sighed, 'he'll turn around. I know he will. If he really was against me, against us, he would've kicked me out by himself and you wouldn't even have gotten a chance to get in between me and him. It would've been a bloody fight, and you know that too.'

'I know,' you said and leaned your head on his shoulder, 'Uhtred knows you're a good guy, but I just didn't want to tell him about us because I knew this would happen. And I wasn't ready for more drama.'

'Neither was I,' Sihtric laughed, 'but it's done now. We survived it and he will be calm again when he returns.'

'He won't like you sleeping over though.'

'He won't,' Sihtric chuckled.

'But he'll have to deal with it,' you shrugged.

'Not for long,' Sihtric said and looked at you.

'What do you mean?'

'Because I've been looking for my own place for a few weeks already,' he said, 'I felt like I was a bother to Finan and his wife, so I wanted to move out there too as fast as I could. It just took a while to find a place I could afford, but I found one.'

'You did?' you gasped, then smiled and kissed his face all over with joy, 'that's great! I'm so happy for you! I'm still looking for a place myself-'

'You can stop looking,' Sihtric smiled as he silenced you politely, pressing one finger onto your lips, 'because I'd like for you to move in with me.'

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