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trulybetty · 1 year ago

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Welcome to New York | (Dieter Bravo x OFC)

Pairing: Dieter Bravo x OFC Warnings: alcohol, smoking & zero angst, promise! Summary: Bryony attends a housewarming party in New York City, where surrounded by the laughter and energy of the party, she encounters Dieter Bravo for the first time. Sparks fly hinting at an unexpected connection that could forever change their lives. AO3: Linked

A/N: in passing with @gnpwdrnwhiskey last week I mentioned that I didn't think I knew how to write without adding angst, so this was my challenge to myself to try and do so! Also to give Bryony and Dieter a little reprieve from the drama! Still not 100% on this piece, throwing it at the wall and seeing if it sticks, so feedback, as always, is welcomed! Also, if it's not apparent, the poster in the graphic is not a visual of Bryony.

Welcome to New York.

2017

The night air was warm, winter was turning to spring and the city of New York was buzzing. It was Bryony's first time in the city, she had travelled to other cities in the US before. But hadn't really understood the call of New York. The idea of a city that never slept made her feel exhausted and wasn't that just London? A city she was already too familiar with. However, that was all until she had touched down earlier that day and taken a cab from JFK to her hotel across from Central Park.

The cab ride from the airport had been an experience in itself. As she zipped through the bustling streets, past towering skyscrapers and neon-lit billboards, she couldn't help but be swept up in the city's vibrancy. Each sight was a stark contrast to the tranquillity of her native South Wales and the sophisticated charms of London.

Gina and Lloyd's brownstone, nestled in the heart of Brooklyn, was Bryony's destination. Arriving just as the sun began to dip below the city skyline, casting long shadows and bathing everything in a soft, golden light, she felt a twinge of anticipation coursing through her veins.

Bryony, having watched enough Sex and The City, knew all too well that these brownstones didn't come cheap. Despite being thirty-two and having almost a decade's worth of experience in the TV and film production industry, the magnitude of the property's value was somewhat intimidating. She couldn't shake off the feeling of being somewhat out of her depth.

Bryony had grown up in Cardiff, in a close-knit community where her grandmother and both her aunts lived just down the street. When her career meant a move to London, she found a roommate in her brother. Rhys, retired from professional rugby, had a few international tours with Wales and had a good run with a professional club. Both of which had ended with a crushed disc and falling back on his law degree that he swore he'd never need. That arrangement had ended when they could no longer stand the sight of each other, and Bryony subsequently moved to a modest flat in Islington.

She paused at the doorstep at the top of the stairs, adjusting her dress, a nervous habit, she tried to quell the butterflies fluttering in her stomach. She inhaled deeply, the scent of the city, a blend of fresh flowers, car exhausts, and tantalizing wafts from a nearby pizzeria, filling her lungs.

Arriving in New York also marked a pivotal chapter in Bryony's career. She was currently basking in the glow of being the lead producer of the BBC overnight sensation, 'Dark Waters'. The engrossing drama had captivated the nation for six tension-filled weeks, catapulting Bryony's name when her relentless efforts to launch the show were finally acknowledged. The waves of her success were still riding high, the demand for her talent leverage that had carried her across the Atlantic.

Taking one last moment to gather herself, she reached out and pressed the doorbell.

As the heavy oak door swung open, Bryony was embraced by not only the welcoming chorus of laughter and lively conversation that escaped the townhouse, but the arms of Gina, who upon seeing Bryony nearly took her off of her feet despite her petite stature. The diminutive blonde held her at arm's length, her chic bob bouncing with the infectious energy that matched her smile.

Gina had a good ten years of experience in the industry when she'd first taken Bryony under her wing in her first years. Gina had been a guiding light then, her role as a producer instrumental in shaping Bryony's growing career. Over the years they continued to work on various projects together, and as they did, their friendship grew.

"You made it!" Gina exclaimed in excitement.

Bryony smiled "Wouldn't have missed it!" she replied. "Congratulations on the new home! It’s beautiful!"

Bryony followed Gina into the awe-inspiring brownstone, where New York charm met Gina's exquisite taste in decor. The walls were already adorned with photographs and personal mementoes, reflecting their new home's warm character.

Basking in the glow of the lively gathering, Gina turned to Bryony, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Thank you, love. I can't tell you how thrilled I am to have you here." She squeezed Bryony's arm in excitement, "And brace yourself - I've invited someone who I'm convinced will be your one true love!"

Bryony's brow arched in a mix of curiosity and playful exasperation. "Wow, dinner and my future husband? You do know how to throw a party Gin!" She was all too familiar with Gina's relentless penchant for playing cupid, this wasn't the first time.

"Lay off the matchmaking, Gina," came a voice from behind them, rich with amusement. They both turned to find Lloyd, his face split into a wide grin, cradling a glass tumbler in his hand. "I'm pretty sure Bryony has had her fill of your romantic schemings for a lifetime by now." He extended the tumbler in his hand to Bryony, his smile infectious. "A warm welcome to our abode, Bryony. Gin and tonic, if my memory serves me right?"

"Right as always, Lloyd," Bryony responded as she accepted the glass.

Lloyd exuded an aura of sophistication that was almost tangible. He was the kind of man who could spout lines of profound prose at the drop of a hat, and then be found at the heart of good gossip. His charm was effortless, much like the characters he brought to life on stage, making him a beloved figure within the New York theatre circles.

Gina crossed her arms, feigning a pout. "I'll have you both know that I'm an exceptional matchmaker."

Bryony laughed, the sound echoing lightly in the lively atmosphere. She took a refreshing sip of her drink, the cool tang of the gin and tonic a welcome contrast to the warm room. "The jury is still out on that one Gina."

Gina shot Bryony a grin, her eyes twinkling. "Well, don't be surprised if someone manages to catch your attention tonight."

With a playful roll of her eyes, Bryony retorted, "We'll just have to wait and see, won't we?"

---

As the night went on, Bryony navigated the party, pushing herself out of her comfort zone to network and engage in conversations with various attendees. Excusing herself from another discussion about the nuances of British television, she headed off in search of another drink.

Surprisingly the kitchen was empty, the sleek expanse of the island held an array of dishes wrapped in anticipation of dinner. Bryony’s stomach grumbled reminding her that she’d eaten no more than the limp sandwich that had been served prior to her plane's arrival to JFK. Eyeing a box of crackers, she opened the box, popping one into her mouth as she turned her attention to making herself a drink. As the ice cubes clinked in the glass, Bryony savoured a brief pause from the energetic ambience of the party.

Lost in her thoughts, she was startled when a voice broke the silence. "Looks like we both found the one quiet spot in this place," the voice said.

Bryony jumped, startled by the sudden sound of another person in the kitchen. The box of crackers nearly slipped out of her hands as she spun around, her gaze meeting that of a face she certainly didn't recognize. He was tall, with dark brown eyes that twinkled with amusement at her surprise, and an easy smile that complimented his features. He stood casually against the kitchen island as if he belonged there.

Bryony felt her cheeks flush as she stammered out a response. “Jesus, you scared the shit out of me.”

He responded with a deep, hearty chuckle, "Apologies. Wasn't my intention to startle you. I'm in search of a refill myself."

Bryony eyed his half-drained glass of bourbon and raised an eyebrow. Unfazed, he winked at her and polished off the remaining liquor. "As I said, in dire need of a refill. Call me Dieter. Dieter Bravo."

Bryony suppressed a smirk, finding it hard to believe that his name could be real.

"Bryony," she countered back, mimicking his theatrical name presentation, "Bryony Morgan."

"Your accent gives you away, Bryony," Dieter said in a low voice as he leaned around her to access the cabinet to her left. His shoulder grazed hers, sending sparks through her. He was close enough that his hips brushed against hers as he reached for the stash of premium spirits. "Seems like you're a long way from home, no?" A hint of a flirtatious smile tugged at the corner of his lips, pulling something within Bryony along with it.

"I suppose I am," Bryony said and gave him the cliff notes of her background. Tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear as she watched him select a bottle. "New York though is quite a bit different from London."

He chuckled, popping the cork off a bottle of vintage bourbon before taking a sniff. "That it is, Bryony. I've spent some time in London myself. Fine city, but it doesn't quite have the... chaos of New York, you know?"

Her soft laughter filled the warm, bustling atmosphere of the housewarming party. "I'll give you that. The chaos is definitely unique here."

Their eyes met as he poured the liquor, the amber liquid catching the light as it filled his glass. He held her gaze, a slow smile spreading across his face. There was something enticing about him, every bit of him demanded her attention.

"So, Bryony Morgan," he started, setting down the bottle and turning to face her. He leaned back against the counter, crossing his arms over his chest. "What brings you to Gina and Lloyd's party tonight?"

"Friends with Gina, we've worked on a few projects back in the UK over the years," Bryony replied, tracing the rim of her glass with a fingertip. “And of course, by proxy, that's how I know Lloyd.”

"Ah, working with Gina, that must be quite the adventure," Dieter chuckled, taking a sip of his bourbon. "She is one of the best in the business."

“How about you?” Bryony reached into the box of crackers, popping another into her mouth before offering the box to Dieter, “How do you know Lloyd and Gina?”

Dieter grinned, accepting a cracker from the box. "Lloyd and I go way back. He's quite the taskmaster when it comes to his stage productions. I'm currently starring in Lloyd's latest production. It's... interesting, to say the least. He's got a knack for the dramatic."

Bryony chuckled, her gaze meeting Dieters. "That he does. I've seen a few of his works. Quite compelling. And you? Do you enjoy the drama?"

"Depends on the day," Dieter answered with a shrug, a wry smile playing on his lips. "It can be... exhilarating. And other times, it's just exhausting."

Bryony found herself drawn in by his candour, the easy way he spoke about his work. There was a vibrancy that was hard to ignore.

He looked at her then, his gaze inquisitive. "So, what about you, Bryony? What brings you to the chaotic city of New York from the refined streets of London?"

“Work,” she replied simply as she took a sip of her drink, “there's the promise of work out in LA, so I'm meeting with some studios this week for interviews and meetings. I'm also hoping I get a chance to take a look around New York, I've never been here before.”

Dieter clutched at his chest dramatically, “Never been to New York before? How is that even possible?”

"I guess I never saw the appeal," Bryony replied, the crinkle at the corner of her eyes betraying her amusement.

“Well, how are your first impressions?"

"Honestly," she began, a light chuckle escaping her as she glanced down at her watch. "I’ve been here less than twenty-four hours, and most of that time was spent in a taxi or adjusting to my hotel room." She met his gaze again, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

He smirked, taking a thoughtful sip of his bourbon. "Well, the beauty of New York can't be appreciated in the back of a taxi or from a hotel room window," he responded, setting his glass down on the counter. "There's a certain life to it, a rhythm that you have to immerse yourself in to really understand."

“Anything, in particular, you recommend I see first?” Bryony asked, emboldened by the gin she'd already consumed on top of the jetlag.

"New York?" Dieter arched an eyebrow, a smirk playing on his lips as he swirled the amber liquid in his glass. "The city has endless possibilities. A little exploration could be just what you need."

Bryony lifted her glass to her lips in the hope to hide the blush she felt creeping up her cheeks. She couldn't deny the appealing prospect of Dieter Bravo as her personal city guide. "That so?" she replied, her tone playfully challenging. "Sounds almost like an invitation."

He grinned, his eyes twinkling in a way that promised fun and adventure. "Consider it an opportunity, Bryony. An opportunity to see the city through the eyes of a man who's lived and loved here."

"Aren't you a busy man? You must have a lot going on," she retorted, trying to keep the conversation light.

A dismissive shrug accompanied his smug grin. "Oh, there's always room for one more adventure," he replied, casting her a playful wink over the top of his bourbon.

Bryony's unexpected laughter surprised them both. "Adventure, you say? Is that how you see me – a damsel in need of a thrilling rescue?"

"Not exactly," he said, the flirtatious veneer fading for a moment, replaced by something more genuine. "I think you're someone who's about to embark on an exciting new chapter, and I'd like to be part of that story, even if it's just for a brief moment."

Dieter's words echoed between them, the background chatter of the party fading into a muffled hum. There was an honest charm about Dieter, an attraction that went far beyond his clean-cut Hollywood looks. She studied him thoughtfully, his proposition appearing less a daunting task and more a promising adventure in the grandiosity of New York City.

A subtle rush of excitement coursed through her veins, her cheeks blooming with a soft blush. Generally, the thought of navigating a social situation like this with a stranger would have her mind plotting potential escape plans. Yet, with Dieter, she felt inexplicably at ease, wrapped in the warmth of his charismatic pull.

Taking a deep breath, she locked eyes with him and, with a spark of anticipation, accepted his offer, “I think I'd enjoy that.”

---

As the dinner call was announced, Bryony reluctantly extricated herself from the comfort of the kitchen, following in Dieter's wake. He was soon swallowed up by the crowd, enticed away by a familiar voice. Dieter cast her a playful wink before weaving his way through the sea of people, his name echoed around him.

Much to Bryony's frustration, Dieter sat further down the table. However, he could be heard over the thrum of conversations. Throughout the course of dinner, her attention kept gravitating towards him. The way he held court, the way he drew people in, it was undeniably captivating.

"Unparalleled, really," he expressed fervently, his hands dancing in the air to emphasise his words. "The enchanting realities we conjure up on stage are truly astounding." He passionately shared captivating anecdotes and viewpoints, mesmerizing his captivated audience with his fervent words and expressive gestures

His laughter, enchanting and infectious, would fade into a knowing smile whenever their eyes met. Yet, every time they found a chance to navigate through the crowd towards one another, the currents of the party would sweep them away. Another admiring compliment here, a spirited debate there.

As the evening wore on, it felt as though the number of guests had multiplied. Bryony found herself questioning the architectural integrity of the brownstone, surprised that it could hold such a vast variety of party-goers. Gina and Lloyd, the soiree's hosts, had long since disappeared into the vibrant mass of their guests, leaving her adrift amidst the waves of well-wishers and hangers-on.

Eventually, needing a breather from the crowd, and the repetition of hearing people try and imitate her accent, Bryony sought refuge in the cool New York night of Gina and Lloyd's garden. The slight chill was a soothing contrast to the stifling warmth of the party, and she welcomed it, wrapping her arms around herself. Eyes closed, head tilted up towards the sky, she took a deep breath. The nagging pangs of jetlag reminded her it had been almost a full day since she'd left Gatwick, yet she tried to put that aside.

Her moment of peace was broken by a gentle voice, rich with intrigue, "Finally, didn't think I'd get to see you again this evening."

The sound of footsteps echoing against the flagstone pavement announced Dieter's approach. In his hands, he balanced two filled-to-the-brim champagne glasses and a box of cigarettes. Wordlessly, he offered her one of the drinks, taking up a casual stance against the railing next to her. His dark eyes, sparkling under the dimly lit sky, darted her way, a playful smile tugging at his lips.

She returned his smile as she accepted the champagne. The crisp, cool bubbles of the drink served to heighten the pleasant chill of the evening.

As Dieter offered her the cigarette box, Bryony shook her head, "No thanks."

Unfazed, Dieter tilted the box toward himself, raising an eyebrow in silent query. Bryony gestured for him to go ahead. He then smoothly pulled out a cigarette, placing it between his lips with a lazy finesse that was impossible to ignore.

Captivated, Bryony watched as the dimly lit tip of his cigarette cast a warm glow onto his chiselled features. Dieter took a long, thoughtful drag, his posture subtly shifting to ensure the smoke veered away from her. Despite her personal aversion to the habit, she couldn't deny the allure the habit added to him.

When he finally released a slow stream of smoke into the air, he turned back to her with a mischievous grin, his eyes twinkling in the soft light. The silent intensity of his gaze ignited a familiar energy between them, a thrilling undercurrent that had been palpably present since their paths had crossed earlier in the evening.

“Managed to escape, then?” His voice was quiet, meant only for her, a stark contrast to the vibrant energy he displayed inside.

Bryony smiled, shrugging lightly. “Needed some air. It’s a bit much in there.”

A deep, resonating chuckle echoed from Dieter. His nod of agreement punctuated the understanding that passed between them as he savoured another puff. “Absolutely, it's quite the circus.” His eyes locked with hers in the sparse lighting, the soft intensity within them captivating her completely. The quietude that stretched between them was comfortable, each seeming to find solace in the other's company.

"Is it always this easy for you?" Bryony asked, playfully referring to the seamless charm he seemed to exude.

His shoulders moved in a casual shrug, his mischievous grin remaining in place, "Only with someone worth the effort." His statement, laced with flirtatious intent, hung in the air, amping up the tension between them.

Bryony blushed, "So, 'More Than I Should'," referring to Lloyds play that he'd mentioned he was starring in, "How's it coming along?" Her question attempted to keep the conversation casual, but there was no mistaking the flirtatious undertones.

Dieter exhaled a slow stream of smoke before answering, "It's intense," he confessed, his eyes following the trail of smoke. "Lloyd is a genius, and he’s pushing us to explore some profound emotional depths. The play has these intricate themes of love and loss that are quite compelling."

Bryony found herself nodding along. "I've been debating asking Lloyd for tickets. It sounds like an experience I shouldn't miss."

Dieter quirked a brow at her, "Why bother Lloyd when I can get them for you?" He challenged, his grin teasing and magnetic. "And I can do you one better. A dinner date after the show perhaps?"

"Really?" Bryony's surprise swiftly morphed into a delighted smile. "That's quite a generous offer, Mr. Bravo."

His response was a rumble of laughter, the sound warm and intimate. "Think of it as the first stop on Bravo New York experience," he quipped with a theatrical wave of his arm.

Bryony found herself laughing, charmed by his casual bravado. "A proposition like that is quite impossible to turn down. I'm in."

His eyes lit up at her acceptance, a spark of excitement dancing in them.

A yawn, wide and deep, escaped Bryony. She swiftly covered her mouth, but it was too late to hide. She laughed in embarrassment, "Sorry," she apologized, but it was barely a moment before another yawn surfaced.

Observing this, Dieter's lips curled into a smile. "Bryony my dear, I do believe your jet lag is catching up with you," he mused, "Perhaps it's time for Cinderella to consider her exit?"

Feigning a hurt expression, Bryony shot back, "Are you trying to get rid of me so soon?"

Dieter returned her playful jibe with a roguish grin. "On the contrary," he responded, his voice rich with amusement, "However, it wouldn’t do well for my reputation to have a lovely lady like you dozing off on me," he paused, his smile broadening, "Well, at least not because of my conversational skills."

Bryony’s laugh rang out, the sound brushing away her fatigue, if only for a moment. "Well, we certainly can't risk damaging your hard-earned reputation, can we?"

With a flourish, Dieter stubbed out the remnants of his cigarette and extended his arm to her. "Shall we?" He proposed, his tone layered with charm. "I owe you at least the courtesy of hailing you a cab."

Bryony bit her lip, taking appraise of the man before her. It wasn't as if she'd been lacking any attention on the romance front. Being currently single had been a choice for Bryony, she'd dedicated the last two years to her work on Dark Waters, determined to ensure its success. Her trip to New York however was initially intended for interviews and exploring the city's attractions. Dieter Bravo, on the other hand, was an unexpected surprise

Taking a deep breath, she linked her arm through his. "Alright, Dieter. Let's get a cab." She smiled gratefully at him. "You're quite the gentleman."

He returned her smile, the corner of his lips quirking up in a way that set her heart fluttering. "Only on occasion," he quipped as they started making their way out to the front of the townhouse.

Once outside, Dieter pulled out his phone and quickly typed something into it. He held it out to Bryony, the new contact page open, "Just making sure you can schedule your 'Bravo Tour' of New York," he teased, his tone a playful blend of humour and earnestness.

Accepting the phone, Bryony couldn't suppress her smile. Swiftly, she entered her number and hit 'save'. Regardless of the spontaneity of this evening, she knew one thing for certain: there was no doubt in her mind that she wanted to see him again.

Returning his phone, Bryony gave him a teasing smile, "I'll be expecting five-star service on this tour, Dieter." She could see the glint of excitement in his eyes, matching her own.

As their playful banter melted away, giving way to a comfortable, yet electrifying silence, an unspoken understanding passed between them. The air around them was charged with a palpable tension, a connection that neither of them could deny.

The late winter chill didn't bother Bryony as she stood under the muted glow of the street light, her eyes locked with Dieters. As he moved a step closer, erasing the minimal distance between them, a sense of anticipation knotted in her stomach. She was acutely aware of his presence - the intoxicating scent of his cologne, the broad expanse of his shoulders just inches from her, the defined angles of his jaw, and the alluring smile playing at the corners of his mouth.

Taking her by surprise, Dieter gently cradled the back of her neck, his gentle fingertips tracing over her skin. A small gasp escaped her lips, and without thinking, her hands found their places - one on his firm chest, the other resting lightly on his hip.

He ran his tongue over his lips, a seemingly innocuous gesture that set her heart racing. The playful tilt of his head and the knowing look in his eyes made it clear he was aware of the effect he had on her.

He pulled back slightly, surprising her with a gentle gesture as he pressed a soft kiss to her forehead, creating a moment of sweet tenderness that left her stunned and craving for more.

The unexpected tenderness of Dieter's kiss to her forehead sent a rush of warmth coursing through Bryony, leaving her a little breathless. The hint of surprise must have registered on her face, because Dieter's face split into a self-deprecating grin, "I know, not my usual style." He said with a shrug.

Exhaustion was starting to make itself known, her brain fuzzy around the edges, but she couldn't help the chuckle that escaped her lips at his admission, "You don't say."

His hand still held at her neck, thumb gently stroking the bare skin of her collarbone. The night was quiet around them, leaving them standing alone under the streetlamp. New York’s nightlife was dwindling down into a softer lull, the noise distant. Their surroundings were forgotten for a moment as Bryony got lost in Dieter's deep-set eyes.

The sudden transition from a simmering tension to this tender intimacy left Bryony both surprised and yearning for more. She found herself captivated by Dieter, his proximity allowing her to notice the faint flecks of gold in his deep brown eyes. His warm breath fanning her face caused her to catch her own.

"Dieter..." she uttered his name, a whisper amidst the gentle night breeze. Her emotions were bubbling to the surface, threatening to spill over. The fatigue of the long day, mixed with the unexpected intimacy she was experiencing with Dieter, was a potent concoction that made her feel unsteady.

Responding to the bewilderment mirrored in her eyes, Dieter offered a small, soothing smile. He swept a loose lock of hair away from her face, his thumb brushing lightly against her jawline. The electrifying sensation this created stayed with her, a tantalizing suggestion of what might be.

"You're tired," he acknowledged softly. His thumb traced the contour of her jaw in a languid stroke, igniting a trail of goosebumps down her spine. Then, in a statement that contradicted his usual impulsive nature, he added, "The city can wait for you. And so can I."

His words hung in the night air, a promise that left Bryony both intrigued and more confused than before. For Dieter, who was accustomed to pursuing his desires with relentless intensity, this restraint was uncharted territory. He was aware of the profound impact his words had, a stark contrast to his typical behaviour. The unfamiliar sensation of patiently waiting, rather than chasing fervently, gave him a sense of strange satisfaction.

But as the horn of a taxi Dieter had flagged broke through the silence, Dieter reluctantly let go of Bryony. "Your chariot awaits," he said with a smirk, his hand lingering for a moment longer before he finally stepped forward to hold the taxi door open for her.

"Goodnight, Dieter Bravo,"

"Goodnight, Bryony Morgan," he replied.

As the cab pulled away, leaving a somewhat dazed Dieter on the sidewalk, Bryony couldn't help but feel that this was just the beginning of their story. Little did she know, at that moment, just how drastically this unexpected rendezvous with Dieter Bravo would impact her future, transforming her world in ways she couldn't yet fathom.

---

As Bryony settled into the back of the taxi, the Brooklyn dissolving into a whirl of twinkling lights, she felt the familiar buzz of her phone from inside her purse.

Pulling it out, she noticed a new text message from Gina lighting up the screen.

"Sorry I missed you leaving babes, I hope you had a great time??? Coffee tomorrow? I didn't even get a chance to introduce you to that guy! He's a production assistant on Lloyd's latest show, James. I think you and him would hit it off! Love you lots, g'night xxx"

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