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btsmakesmehappy · 4 years

Text

Palate Cleanser | 2

Genre: Agent au, friends with benefit (sort of), Stranger to lover, Angst, Fluff, Smut

Pairing: Agent!Taehyung x Baker!reader

Word Count: 7,7k

Rating: 18+ (M)

Warning: oral sex (M/F receiving), penetrative sex, protective sex, crying after sex

Chapter: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 completed

Summary: Taehyung needs something to take his mind off his broken heart. His best friend, Jimin, suggests that he should meet another woman and the first woman he met was you. Would you help him even though you have your own problem, that you hate men?

a/n: Thankyou for @detectivebts for beta-read this!! Thankyou for staying sane after reading this bad-grammar story of mine. you’re my savior <3

Series Masterlist: The Company

You are awakened by the sound of your blaring alarm. Your head hurts so bad. You look at the table in front of you to find that there are two bottles of wine, not one. Why did you drink that much? Your neck is throbbing with pain because you fell asleep on the couch. You sit carefully and pick your phone on the floor to turn the alarm off, your eyes widening as you scroll through your messages.

01.24 am Y/N: Hi! I am y/n. Thank you for giving me your number. I am interested in your service. But first, I must ask you. How much is your pay? And do you accept any kinky requests? Because I have some, y’know. Kkk

You yell a silent scream. What the fuck did I send? You hold the message bubble to find an ‘unsend’ option, but there is none. That’s the beauty of messaging when you hit the send button, you can’t unsend it. You curse yourself silently. You scroll to the bottom, hoping Taehyung didn’t reply to you.

01.29 am Taehyung: I’m sorry, what?

01.30 am Y/n: you know... Are you a dom or sub? Kkk I am fine either way though.

01.31 am Y/n: but really. How much? I still have an installment on my coffee machine, so can you give me a discount?

01.31 am Y/n: you are so handsome. Plz?

You let your phone drop to the ground and you bang your head on the table. Jesus, what should I do now? You don’t even bother to look at the following messages. You feel as if you could die of embarrassment right now. Maybe you should just ignore the fact that you messaged him, pretend that it didn’t happen. Is it even possible to do damage control? You pick your phone again and hesitantly scroll through the messages.

01.34 am Taehyung: I don’t understand what you mean.

01.34 am Taehyung: but I am not a hooker

01.35 am Taehyung: also a bad idea for having an installment on a coffee machine.

Oh my God, I literally just told him that he is a prostitute. You bite your nails anxiously. You just lost your –maybe- a loyal customer from your bakery. Stupid drunk bitch.

You couldn’t work at all. You look at the door every time the bell rings, hoping it is the man with that curly hair. You sighed every time it wasn’t him.

Hani also notices that something is wrong with you. She has never seen you this agitated since high school when you waited for your mother to come home after you failed a class. And from that point on, she knows you are waiting for something or maybe someone. “Who are you waiting for?”

You jerk your head towards her and chuckled nervously. “What do you mean?”

“You have looked at the door almost 50 times already.” Then the bell rings, and you look at the door. “51 times.”

You fiddle the hem of your shirt. “Just someone.”

Her eyes twinkled in excitement. She marches towards you. “Who is this particular someone?” She smirks. “Is that handsome guy, isn’t it?”

Your eyes widen and your jaw drops. “How could you know?”

She puts her hands in front of her mouth. “Oh my God, finally! You like a guy!” She hugs you tightly. “I am so happy for you.”

You force-release her. “No, it’s not like that.”

She frowns her brows, thinking. “So why?”

“It’s just... I did something bad. And I think I need to apologize to him.” Your head drops.

Hani doesn’t ask anymore. She knows that you won’t explain anything further until you want to. There’s no point in forcing you to spill the beans. She smiles motherly. “Just apologize to him then.”

“Ho- How?” you bite your nails.

“Just find him, you dummy. You know where he works, right?”

You remember the card on your nightstand. “I think it is called ‘The Company’. But I don’t know where it is.”

Hani’s eyes widen. “What? He works in the Company? Wow. That’s so cool.”

You tilt your head. “You know where it is?”

“Of course I know! It is the big building around the corner, 2-3 blocks from here.” She points to the direction of the building. “I don’t know what that company does but it is always full of good looking people whenever I walk past it. Maybe it’s a modeling agency?”

“Would you mind if I go there for a bit?” You plead. “But should I? Won’t I be bothering him?”

“You’ll be fine! Just go!” She pats your shoulder. “And besides, you worked alone yesterday, and I have been feeling so guilty about it, so just think about it as a break too. Jackson is coming so I won’t be alone, don’t worry.”

You then walk to the locker and change to your usual clothes quickly. Before you walk to the door, you pick up some bread and muffins, putting them into a paper bag, not wanting to apologize without a peace offering. “I will go for a bit then.” You then stare at Hani. “And please, don’t have sex in the kitchen. It’s just unsanitary.”

You can see blush forming on her cheeks. She let out a dry laugh. “Fair enough. Just go already!”

You walk to the building with an anxious heart. Hani is right, it is not that far from your bakery. You can even see it in the distance, it is hard to miss, hundreds of glass windows towering above the other buildings. The security in the building is no joke too. You need to go through a security check before going inside. But you need an appointment before you go through the security. And It is just stupid of you to just walk to someone’s office without making an appointment, especially in this sophisticated of a building.

You pace restlessly in front of the building, maybe I should just call him? but what if he’s busy? Last night you accused him of being a prostitute and now you disturb him at work? What a nice person you are. Just when you decide to turn around and go back to your bakery, someone calls your name.

“Y/N?”

You turn your head to the source of the sound. And there is the person you want to avoid and see at the same time, standing in front of you. Destiny is funny sometimes. He wears a light blue shirt and gray pants, with a jacket thrown over his arm. He eyes you curiously, and then he walks towards you.

“Hello. Nice to see you again.” You nod politely, avoiding his gaze.

He smiles as he drags you to the sidewalk. “What are you doing here?”

You bite your lower lip harshly. Damn it! I haven’t thought about what I should say to him! You just look at your feet and gulp. “About last night..”

Taehyung hides his smile, “Oh about how you don’t care if I am a sub or a dom?”

You put your hand in front of his mouth quickly, before he says anything else. His lips attach to your palm and you can feel his hot breath against your skin, making your heart beats faster. “I-I was drunk, okay? I- I just want to apologize for last night.” You take your hand off his mouth and drop it to your side. You still can feel how soft his lips were on your hand. You then hold out the paper bag to him. “This is a gift.”

He takes the paper bag from you. “Oh, thanks. Don’t worry about it. We’ve all had that night at some points in our lives.” He chuckles. As he looks at you, he can’t help but notice how you won’t meet his eyes, how you fiddle with your shirt nervously. You look weird, weirdly cute. He can’t keep his eyes away from you.

Just before you reply to him, another man comes towards you two. “Taehyung-ah. Who are you talking to?” He stops when he looks at you, eyeing you curiously, taking in your figure. “So, who is the pretty lady?” He smiles. You look at him carefully, He too is an attractive man. What is this company exactly? He then puts his arms casually around Taehyung’s shoulders.

“Oh sorry Hyung, just my friend.” Taehyung replies. “This is Y/N. And Y/N, this is Hoseok.”

Hoseok reaches his hand out. And just like yesterday and every other day, you hesitate. You wonder if you could just run away from him, but it will be too impolite of you. Hell, you are here to apologize for last night, you don’t need another reason to apologize. You look at his hand, waiting for you, and finally, you decide to shake his hand. “Nice to meet you.” You say softly.

“Hi! It is nice to meet you.” The corners of his eyes crinkle with his big smile and the cute sound coming from his mouth, it is just so bright, like a ray of warm sunshine on an autumn day. You have never met such a shining person in your life. “Well, I want to get to know you, but I am afraid I have to go. I will wait in the car.” Hoseok pats Taehyung’s shoulder and waves to you. He walks to the black SUV parked in front of the building.

Taehyung nods to him while he still hides his laughter. He can feel how tense you are when you meet Hoseok. He just feels you are too cute, and at the same time, he is relieved that you are tense and nervous with every man, not only him. Also, the fact that you came to see him and talked to him, he has a weird feeling inside his chest. “Well, I should go. Thanks for the bread, I was starving.” He smiles. He leans to you and whispers to your ear. “I am not kidding, you know, about yesterday.” He winks. Taehyung the pats your head softly. “Please text me after you arrived safely at the bakery, okay?”

You can feel his warm breath on your ear and it makes you shudder. And his deep voice? It just makes your heart race. He smirks as he walks away from you. He suddenly turns around to you, “Y/N!” he yells. “Please bring the red bean paste bread next time! It was delicious!” He waves casually and gets into the car.

You’re left stunned on the sidewalk as the car pulls away. Taehyung is a unique guy, that’s for sure. How else can you explain his antics and his out-of-the-blue talking and not to mention his friendliness. You have never met a guy like him. You hate all men, but somehow you can’t hate this one. He seems to be a proper and a genuinely nice guy.

As your heart races rapidly and your hands go clammy, you turn around and walk back to your bakery, mulling over what to text him, a smile spreading across your face as your pace quickens.

Taehyung takes a piece of bread from the paper bag and eats it right away in the car. He forgot to have breakfast, and basically, you were like an angel sent from heaven for him just now. An angel with a bag full of food.

Hoseok drives the car and sometimes looks at Taehyung beside him. Taehyung looks more cheerful though, and it makes Hoseok relieved. “So, who is the girl?”

Taehyung raises his eyebrow and looks at him weirdly. “Are you okay, hyung? Did you forget that you actually just met her?” his mouth is still full of bread, trying to chew in between.

“I know it’s Y/N, dumbass. Where did you meet her?”

He swallows. “I met her in the bakery a few blocks from our office a couple of times.”

“Wow, isn’t it just fate? Like a movie? You met the girl coincidentally two times, no, three times!” Hoseok’s face lit up. He is always known to be a hopeless romantic like Jimin. But unfortunately for him, he has not met the love of his life yet. So somehow, poking into someone else’s love life is one of his hobbies.

“Not exactly.” He opens another bread. “She works there.”

Hoseok pouts. “Why are you ruining my fantasy? Then why did she go to our building then?”

“To meet me.”

“Oh my god! Does she love you? Was that why she looked for you?” Hoseok’s eyes twinkle in excitement.

“No. Please stop imagining things!” Taehyung chuckles. “She just wanted to apologize.”

He knits his eyebrow. “For what?”

Taehyung opens his third bread. His phone vibrates then, and when Taehyung opened it, it’s from thebreadgirl. It’s how he saves your name in his phone. He smiles. “It’s a secret.” He then types on the keys for a bit and puts it back into his pocket, a smile plastered to his face.

Hoseok presses his lips together, hiding his smile. He has known Taehyung for almost 5 years. He knows when Taehyung fell in love with that girl, how sad he was when she broke his heart. Hoseok knows all of that. But now it’s different. He has never seen Taehyung like this. And somehow he knows, Taehyung won’t be needing to go to the strip clubs anymore.

Taehyung yawns for the millionth time that afternoon. He thought that the job would be fun. But it is the opposite of that. It is boring. He can’t do anything. He can’t go anywhere. He is just in the car watching the target, who is nowhere to be seen in front of his office. He is glad that you gave him a bunch of bread. At least, they won’t starve during this stake-out.

“Hyung, how long do we wait for him?” Taehyung asks.

Hoseok chews the bread from you. “Probably a couple of hours. Oh, wait. There he is!”

Taehyung turns his head to the building. He can see a tall man holding his bag walking from the building. Park Chanyeol. He lives in the same neighborhood as Ji Seok. Last seen with him at a work party, a couple of days before Ji Seok went to Hawaii. Ji Seok has gone silent in the interrogation room, refusing to expose other plans or members. He is a damn good criminal.

Taehyung only heard from the other members how the interrogation went. Namjoon went first and as calm as Namjoon usually was, he almost threw his fists with Ji Seok. Almost, as he was stopped by Hoseok and Jin, who rushed to the interrogation room. Namjoon was then not allowed to enter the room because he was too emotional. Well, his girl almost got killed by Ji Seok, who wouldn’t be mad? Thus, Hoseok and Jin handled the interrogation. But they couldn’t find out any more clues about Black. Why does Ji Seok suddenly need money after all these years? It could only mean one thing, they’re preparing something. Then after many hours of investigating, Yoongi stumbled on something. The 3 suspects.

Chanyeol walks at the perfect time, the road full of people making it less likely he’ll notice he’s being followed. Taehyung puts his hat and gets out of the car. He walks towards Chanyeol quickly. Chanyeol is still busy using his phone, scrolling while walking. Taehyug catches up quickly, then, pretending to trip, he knocks the phone from his hand. As he picks it up, he quickly slips a tracker on the phone and hands it back to Chanyeol. He bows while apologizing profusely before turning tail and making his way back to the car.

“How is it?” Taehyung asks through his comm when he’s halfway back to the car.

Hoseok reports. “We got it. Let’s go back for now.”

Taehyung opens the car and jumps in, removing his hat. “So, what should we do now?”

“Well, you should check his schedule first, see if there’s anything suspicious. I am gonna follow him for a bit. You called me if you find anything, okay?”

Taehyung grumbles, “You do know, that it’d be easier to just kidnap him, right?”

Hoseok chuckles. “I know. But now, since our company has been noticed, we should be more subtle. You know how agents have to sometimes follow their target for several years before getting enough evidence?” he sighs. “Well, we might have to do that.”

Taehyung’s jaw drops. “What? Several years?” He whines. “I can’t handle this boring job!”

Hoseok pats his shoulder, “I don’t like this as much as you do.” He hands him a phone. “Here is Chanyeol's duplicate phone. I’ve just downloaded it. From now on, will we work carefully okay? You go back to the Company, and investigate it.”

Taehyung pouts as he gets out of the car. Hoseok then drives away, leaving Taehyung alone in the crowded road.

You walk to your apartment, with your phone on your hand. You scroll and look at the message you sent.

10.57 am Y/N: I arrived safely.

10.57 am Y/N: I still don’t understand why you asked me to do this when my bakery is just a few minutes away.

10.59 am Taehyung: good then

11.00 am Taehyung: never underestimate criminals, muffin.

11.01 am Taehyung: you can’t die. Who will pay for your coffee machine then? :(

11.03 am Y/N: pls stop. u jerk.

11.03 am Y/N: And why are you calling me muffin?

11.15 am Taehyung: your muffin was really good.

11.15 am Taehyung: thankyou. I will come back soon.

You feel a heat rushing to your face. It is weird for you, how a simple sentence can make your heart racing. You are positive that Taehyung is a playboy with a sweet mouth, whom you should stay away from as he’s surely only trouble, and yet you want to get closer to him. You want to know him better. You were attracted to him.

Maybe that’s why you dated Youngjae. You are always attracted to the wrong man. A man who cheated on you afterward.

You are envious of Hani. She chose a nice man who is now her boyfriend –soon to be fiance (as Jackson told you). She always chooses wisely. God only knows, maybe it is a gift.

You open your apartment’s door, kicking your shoes. You throw your jacket and purse on the couch. You look at the table, the wine bottles and glass have been neglected when you had the mental breakdown this morning. You take them and put them in the kitchen. You wash the glass quickly and hang it on the rack and you put the bottle beside your trash can. You begin to strip in front of your bathroom. You want to take a bath tonight. Your body is tired and you really hope that a hot bath can help you with it.

It has been a while since you took a bath. You have been so busy that you could only afford a shower. A bath is like a luxury to you. You light some candles and put bath salt in your bath. You put your phone in a waterproof bag to watch a movie on Netflix. After checking the temperature, you step into the bath. As the warmth envelopes you in, you feel relaxed for a bit.

Why does Taehyung want to help you in the first place? Is that just his trick to get a woman in his bed? Does he see you as an easy woman? Does he walk around the city finding insecure women and trick them to sleep with him? But he seems nice. Or all of the bad guys look like that? You thought Youngjae was a good man too before.

You sigh. It has been almost 5 years already, you have never been with a man since your ex. Why? Do you still love Youngjae? Is that why you can’t move on? Maybe you still have a little bit of feelings for him, he was your first love. And first loves never die, right?

Maybe Hani is right. Maybe you need it. Maybe you need to fuck it out of your system. It can’t hurt to use him right? And you basically know that he is a playboy, so you won’t catch feelings for him, right? Think of it as a one-night-stand. It’s just for sex, you think.

As you’re thinking of different approaches to ask Taehyung in a not slutty way, your phone chimes. You look at your phone and rise quickly from the bath, too quickly that it makes you feel dizzy. You wrap yourself in a towel and get out of the bath quickly.

Taehyung has already looked into Chanyeol’s phone for about ten times. He couldn’t find anything suspicious. He has already forwarded his schedule to Hoseok and Jin. And when Taehyung thinks that his work now is boring, Chanyeol’s work seems fun. Basically, he is paid by how much he eats. It’s like a fantastic job. Tonight, however, he only works at home, which means Taehyung and Hoseok will take turns staking out his place.

Taehyung stretches his body, he hates this kind of work. He was trained as a field agent, he specialized in firearms. He is good at it, hell, he is possibly the best shooter in the company. But he never wants to use his ability in a mission. He always refuses the mission that involves killing people, never once has he brought guns to the mission. He was once sent to war on the border as an aid when he was a recruit and he hated it. He hates the sound of the bullets going through flesh. He hates the smell of gunpowder. He hates blood seeping through the clothes.

The company and many agents love and envy his ability, and yet, he hates it. If he could choose, he wants the ability like Yoongi who can hack almost everything or Namjoon who was born a genius. And yet God gives him power. An ability to kill people.

It’s not that he can refuse the mission. He CAN’T. But when Taehyung threatened to resign from the company if they forced him to kill again, and it just freaked the Company out. So, he gets what he wants, and The Company can keep an eye on him, instead of letting him work somewhere else and becoming a danger to The Company or even the country. Yes, Taehyung is that good.

Maybe this mission is also a punishment for him and other members. They worked in Hawaii without the Higher-ups knowing, so now they are all stuck in this boring job. He sighs and looks around his office. Some are still working and some have already gone home, it’s almost 9 pm after all.

His stomach growls, he hasn’t eaten anything since noon, and it was only bread. He wants to eat something. He looks at his phone, wondering who he should ask to go to dinner with him. His only friends are the members and they are all still working. Should I go to eat by myself? He taps his phone on his thigh. He hates eating alone.

His eyes suddenly lit up. He then swipes his phone and clicks on the messages. He hits the send button and a smile plastered to his face, proudly. I think it is a good idea.

08.57 pm to Y/N: do you want to have dinner with me?

08.57 pm to Y/N: I will wait for you at the diner near your bakery.

08.58 pm to Y/N: see you soon. ;)

Wait. Why did I think about her?

You were shocked to receive those messages. You thought for a moment at first, but walked to your closet to choose your clothes. It was just dinner. And the invitation just came when you tried to figure out what to have for dinner, it is just a perfect coincidence. I did this because I have to eat.

You wear hoodies and jeans from the morning. You look at your reflection in the mirror. Your skin is dull, with some acne scars on your cheeks. Maybe I need some skincare. You shake your head quickly, it is not the time for that. You just grab your almost-dried cushion and pat it quickly on your face. You draw your eyebrows and wear your lip tint. You wanted to use your mascara, but unfortunately for you, it is all dried out. Goodness, you really need to go shopping. You have never paid any attention to yourself, you were busy studying and building a business. And all the make-up you use usually, were all gifts from your friends and family.

You look at your reflection one more time, to make sure you look okay. You grab your purse and your keys and run outside. Your hair is still wet after the bath and the chilly wind makes you shudder even more as you walk. You regret not bringing your jacket with you, yet you don’t want to go back to your apartment if that means making Taehyung wait any longer.

Wait. Why don’t I want to make him wait? You stop for a bit.

You shake your head. It is not for him, it is for your stomach. You are starving. You need food quickly.

You walk faster to the diner. Luckily for you, it is the middle of the week so the diner is not so crowded. You open the door and look around to find a brunette man. The said man waves to you and gestures you to come to him.

“Hey! Thank you for coming.” He smiles. He still wears the same clothes as the morning, so it seems he is from work. “Took you some time, btw.”

You sit on the chair in front of him. You sigh.”You know it’s impolite to ask a woman for an impromptu dinner like this, you know?”

He chuckles as he hands you the menu, while he calls the waiter. He then orders a bulgogi set and an ice tea, which looks good to you so you order the same. As the waiter walks away, he studies you. “Why is your hair wet?”

“I was taking a bath.” You roll your eyes. “So what do you want to talk about?”

He tilts his head. “Nothing.”

You frown your eyebrows. “Then why did you ask me to have dinner with you then?”

“It’s lonely to eat alone.”

“Then ask your friends to eat with you!” you are flabbergasted. He is a weird guy, really. You are just barely an acquaintance with him and yet he asked you to eat with him.

He shrugs, “all my friends are still working, so I asked you.” He beams his smile to you. “And I am sure, you have nothing to do, so, yeah.”

You pout, “I might have something to do!”

Taehyung leans his body towards you. His smile is mischievous. “Really? Like what?”

You did have a plan. You were planning to cook some ramen and eat it while watching Netflix. You think about it for a second, and it is just kind of pathetic. And he doesn’t have to know that stupid plan. “Fine. Fair enough.”

“But, I don’t really think you would show up, you know? I thought you hate men.”

“I do. But I thought you have something to say, so here I am.” You answer as you look at the windows.

It is a lie. Taehyung is amused by how easy it is to read you. You are like an open book. And the way you struggle to lie to save your face, it is just cute. And it makes him want to know you more. “Well, let’s just eat then.”

The food served in front of you. You quickly dig in as you both were starving. The conversations just flow right away. He asks what is your favorite food, how is your childhood. And you ask him how he treats his hair because it looks so soft, what is his favorite singer.

You should hate spending time with men. You felt so awkward when you talked to him yesterday. But apparently, you are now comfortable with him. it is like catching up with an old friend.

Your plate has already emptied when he calls for the waiter. He asks for tiramisu and you ask for an apple pie. And with you two sharing two pieces of desserts, it makes you more comfortable with him. His laughter and his easygoingness are contagious and makes you open up.

“So, your ex-boyfriend cheated on you?” He asks as he cuts your pie and brings it to his mouth.

You then steal a piece from his Tiramisu. “Uh-huh.” You reply dryly. “Why? Do I look pitiful?”

He shrugs. “A little.”

You glare at him. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

“It’s just a pity because of that one terrible man you threw your love life into a dumpster.” He swallows and grabs his tea. “Not all men like that.”

“Yeah, right. You are a man, of course, you will stand up for them.” You snort. “Give me some examples, then.”

“Me.”

You laugh aloud. “Dude, you asked a woman you’ve just met to sleep with you. It is kinda trashy.”

“Well, in my defense, it’s called palate cleanser.” He pouts. “I am just trying to be a nice guy and help you out!”

You nod your head and roll your eyes. “Right. And remind me once again, what does palate cleanser mean?”

He sighs. “Fine.” He trails his eyes to the windows, you can see a hint of blush on his cheeks. “It’s just... I thought we could help each other, you know. My friend also said that I need it too.”

Suddenly the door opened and his eyes widened. You look at him in confusion and turn your head to look at the couple who just entered the diner. The man is handsome with a tall figure. His hair combed neatly. The man smiles sweetly to the woman beside him, and you can see the dimple poking into his cheek. The woman is beautiful. She wears a work suit and heels, and you can feel the intimidating aura coming from her. They look at the menu and talk to the waiter. The woman suddenly turns her head and looks at your direction and smiles. She then drags the man to walk with her.

“Tae!” She yells happily as she walks to your table. “Oh hello!” She looks at you kindly. You smile and nod politely.

“Hi! Why are you two so late?” Taehyung asks. “Did Namjoon lose his keys again?”

Namjoon puts his hands on his hips. “That is unnecessary information! I was in the practice room, that’s why.”

The girl snorts. “Yeah, as you lost your key and locked yourself in.” The waiter then calls them to tell them that their food is ready. “Alright, we are going to go home now. Enjoy your night!” She then walks to the cashier to pick their food, and waves to you and Taehyung.

“Your colleague, I assume?” You ask while stirring your tea. But when you don’t get an answer, you raise your head. Taehyung looks out the window in the direction of the departing couple. You look at the way the man put his arm on her waist, it looks like they're in love. You study Taehyung’s face, he is emotionless. He looks like he is just staring at the road, but his eyes show sadness. “Taehyung?”

He jerks his head to you. “Ah yeah, I am sorry I spaced out.” He gives you a half-smile. “Let me walk you home.” He then asks the waiter for the bill. You both arguing about the bill, but he ended up paying.

The walk to your apartment has never felt this long. No more random conversations between you two. Taehyung has been silent since he saw the couple. Just with one look at him, when he saw her, you know that he loves her. You know that he is hurting. You know that he hides it with his laughter and smile. You know that he loses his composure when he sees her.

You stop in front of your apartment. “This is my apartment. Thank you for dinner and taking me home.” You smile.

“No problem. Thank you to you too.” He waves and turns around, walking away from you.

You can see his broad back. He looks tough, but he looks in pain.

You know because you were him before.

You’ve brokenhearted too.

But before, you had Hani and your family. And Taehyung? He does have his friends, but why do you feel that he is lonely? Why do you want to help him?

“Taehyung!!” you yelled. You then march towards him.

He turns his body to you, eyebrows raised in confusion. “What?”

When you arrive in front of him, you look at his eyes directly. “Let’s do it.”

“I’m sorry. What do you mean?” he asks back.

“Palate cleanser.”

Just before he says anything, you pull his shirt towards you as you crash your lips to his. He stiffens before relaxing and returning the kiss. He puts his hand behind your neck and puts the other one on your back, pulling you closer. You put your arms around his neck. At the moment, you enjoy how soft his lips on yours. His lips move languidly, molding to your lips. You can feel how your heart is racing inside your chest, how heat is forming inside your core. Taehyung opens your lips and pushes his tongue. He explores your mouth with his warm tongue, making you a moaning mess.

You intentionally grind your hips on his, making him moans in your mouth. You can feel his hardness underneath his pants, and it makes you stiff. He smirks in between the kisses as he grinds his hip back in motion. It makes you go crazy. You can feel the wetness seeping into your underwear. You release yourself from the kiss. “Would you like to come to my place?”

Taehyung’s pupils dilate and he gulps. He then picks his abandoned jacket and your purse from the road and drags you to your apartment. You chuckle as you walk faster in front of him. You pick your keys inside your purse and open the door.

As you enter your room, you feel nervous. What should I do now? You gulp as you throw your purse to the couch. “Do you want some coffee?”

“Is that the way you talk dirty?” He walks towards you and throws his jacket on the couch. “If it is, it could use some work, muffin.” He inches you back until you feel the back of your knees hit the couch.

“How about wine?” You feel the heat rushing to your face. You look to the side and when you try to walk away from him he grabs your wrist.

He chuckles. “Where is the brave girl who kissed me just a minute ago?” He cups your face and kisses you softly. “You don’t have to do this if you don’t want to, Y/N.” He says as he strokes your cheeks.

You look at his brown eyes. They’re mesmerizing. They’re full of lust but also filled with sadness. You kiss his lips quickly. “I want to. I am just nervous.”

Taehyung then sits on the couch and pulls you onto his lap. “Let’s do this slowly then.” Just as his words leave his lips, his pink lips attach to yours again. This kiss feels more passionate but slow. He strokes your thigh in a circular motion and moves to cup your asses. He kneads the cheeks in motion while his tongue dances with yours. He bites your lower lip a little and makes you moan.

His hand moves slowly to touch your skin under your hoodie. His fingers cold, causing goosebumps to spread up your spine. The way he soothes your back makes your body melt and you feel your core is dripping. You subconsciously roll your wet core to his. You can feel his hardness poking again, and it makes you squirm.

Taehyung removes his lips from yours and moves to your bare neck. Licking your neck slowly, you tremble against his touch. You thank God silently, you took a proper bath before. He kisses your neck and then starts sucking lightly, leaving blooming marks on your neck. You don’t care if your neck is full of his marks. The only thing you think about is just him, touching you.

He then pulls your hoodie up and tosses it to the floor, revealing you in your pink bra. His hands then move to your back, unclasping your bra, letting it fall to the floor. He squeezes your breasts while his lips trail across your chest, littering it with marks. Your breath hitches as he sucks a nipple into his mouth, lavishing it slowly, alternating between licks and nips. He can feel you tremble with each flick of his tongue, knowing that it’s driving you crazy.

His fingers then move to your jeans, making quick work of the buttons. He sneaks his hand into your underwear, his cold fingers brushing against your heat, eliciting a moan to slip from your lips.

“Fuck. You’re dripping already, baby.” He touches your core slowly, making you squirm in the process. Your moans are like a drug to him and when he feels how sensitive you are for him when he nudges your clit, he thinks he is the luckiest man in the world. “These pants have got to go.”

He stands you up and pulls your jeans down with your underwear, leaving you fully naked in front of him. Suddenly a rush of embarrassment fills you, subconsciously you use your hand to cover your breasts and your core.

He then pulls you back to his lap. “You are beautiful.” He kisses your wrist and your inner arm while keeping his eye contacts on you. “I am so lucky.”

Taehyung then slips his finger again to your core. He is running to your slit and then circling your clit. He pinches it slightly, which makes you jolt. “Tae...” he then gathers your wetness with his fingers and pushes his finger into your core. The sensation of his finger inside you is enough to make you cry, and moaning his name.

“Oh my God, you are so tight.” He thrusts his finger into you in motion and he uses his thumb to circling your clit. You almost fall from the lack of support, so you put your arms across his neck and put your forehead on his shoulder. “I need to stretch you out first, muffin.”

He kisses your neck and your shoulder, enjoying how you squirm against him. He can feel how your walls clench around his fingers, watch as your toes begin to curl, your breathing becoming uneven. He knows you are close.

“Taehyung, I am gonna..” you barely can talk, bothered by a rush of pleasure forming inside you.

“Let it go, baby. Let me hear you.” His pace quickens as he plays with your clit and finally it comes. Your vision goes black as you arch your back in delight.

You stay in his embrace and control your breathing. His fingers have already moved from your core to his lips as he licks your arousal from his fingers. “You taste incredible.” Taehyung moves his hands to your back to support your limp and shaking body. You have finally gathered your senses after your orgasm. You kiss his lips slowly and then lower yourself to your knees, positioning yourself between his muscular thighs.

You impatiently unbutton his pants and palm his hardened cock through the clothing. As you stroke slowly, he hisses. He feels hot under your touch and your mouth starts to water. You then pull his cock free, wrapping your hand around his length. As you start to slowly stroke him, you can’t help but to lean forward and lick the precum from his tip. His cock twitching at the sensation.

You work his cock slowly, licking it base to tip, before taking him into your mouth. You glance up to find his head falling back against the coach as he moans your name. You feel his tip hit the back of your throat. Taking a deep breath through your nose, you begin bobbing up and down his length. You hollow your cheeks suddenly and it makes Taehyung move his hand to hold your hair and move his cock deeper to your throat until you choke. You can feel your eyes begin watering, but the thing is, you feel satisfied.

You like how he sounds under your touch. You feel powerful. And when you swallow, you know he barely holds his load. You feel as his cock begins to pulsate and he pulls his cock from your mouth with a sudden motion. Taehyung looks at your fucked up face, your swollen lips, and your flushed face. “Not yet.” Taehyung then swipes the saliva from your lips and pulls you up. He kisses you slowly enjoying the taste of himself on your lips.

He then drags you to your messy bed and slowly pushes your back onto the bed. He takes his shirt off his head and pulls his pants down, kicking it in the process, which makes you giggle. Now naked, you take the opportunity to take in his toned body, golden skin. You can’t help but think that he’s a piece of art.

Taehyung then lowers his body to kiss you. His lips trail again from your lips, your cheeks, your neck, your chest, every inch of skin he can get his lips on. “So pretty.” His lips then slowly move downwards, and finally, he places his head in between your thighs. He kisses your inner thigh softly, marking it with the color of the galaxy. His lips then attached to your hardened bud. He nibbles your clit slowly and lavishes it with his tongue. You can feel another coil of desire begin to form.

He swipes his hot tongue to your slit, devouring your core like a man starved. Your body trembles with the over-sensitivity after your first orgasm. And when he thrusts his tongue to your core, you almost lose it. “Tae, I can’t...”

“You can do it, baby. Come for me.” He licks your sweet arousal carefully, making you moan his name. “Fuck, you taste so good.” He then flicks his tongue on your clit and that’s it. You feel your coil snap as your head falls back and your vision blurs. He licks and kisses your core to collect your arousal as you grind to his face to ride your orgasm.

“Taehyung, I want you.”

He chuckles. He then takes a wrapper from his pants and rips it carefully. He then rolls it on his cock. He gathers your wetness and then aligns his tip in front of your entrance. “Are you sure?” You nod weakly.

“I need you to say it, muffin.”

“I-I am sure. Please, I need you now.” You beg quietly.

You take a deep breath as he pushes himself slowly to you. You whimper at the painful stretch. “You are so tight. Am I hurting you?”

You shake your head weakly. “I just need time.” He leans in to kiss your lips, with his cock still buried inside you. You can taste yourself and his saltiness in your mouth. and it is intoxicating. You feel completed. You have never felt this full before. You miss this. He kisses you passionately, you can feel how his emotions played him. You can feel his desperation and loneliness in his touches.

The pain has subdued and you experimentally clench your walls. Taehyung hisses and grips your thighs painfully. “Stop it, or I am not going to last.” He begins to pump himself into you rhythmically. Hitting the spot when you can see stars. The only thing you can feel now is a pleasure and how he somehow completes you. You know that he feels it too, and you hope this pleasure can help him to forget. He pulls your thighs upwards and holds your ass.

His thrusts become sloppy as his cock begins pulsing. His orgasm is approaching, you can feel it. You can feel the knot forming too and your walls throb, you are on the verge of cumming again. Taehyung then moves one of his hands to your clit, rubbing it quickly. And once again your orgasm snaps. with you triggering Taehyung’s release, your walls milking him for everything he’s worth. Taehyung follows you afterward. He then falls on you trying to catch his breath.

You feel how Taehyung is softening inside and he pulls out of you, which makes you whine because of the sudden emptiness. He removes the condom filled with his seed and ties it into a knot and throws it on the trash can. He let his body fall on your side.

You look at his tired face, his forehead beaded with sweat, and how his lips are opened slightly, gasping for breaths. His eyes glistening with tears, filled with his emotion. You then gather your courage to cup his cheek, smoothing the skin. “Are you alright now? How do you feel?”

He looks at you softly. Your heart aches. He then swipes your fallen tears on your cheek with his thumb. “How do you feel?” He whispers. His hand stays on your face, giving you the warmth that you’ve always wanted.

There is only silence formed between you two. As you two are facing each other, you both still can see the pain inside your eyes. You both are fully naked, but you feel more exposed than before. You feel vulnerable and weak. And the longer you look into each other’s eyes, you both know that you two will be alright. You have to be alright.

Taglist: @gee-nee

Taglist still open!

245 notes · View notes

httpsfelicity · 4 years

Text

“In a black dress, she’s such an actress” - Harry Styles × Model Reader AU

Summary - Harry meets a model downtown and falls for her quickly, leading the public to think that it’s a pr stunt. Unsure of what to think, the reader plays along, not knowing that Harry is unaware of the rumours.

For @cruizmanadu, @stephaniemalvie!, @kissessfordraco Xx

A/N - Third and final chapter! Wow! Thank you for the support on this. I apologize for it being shorter than the other chapters. Sadly it’s the end of this story, but if you click here you’ll find my master list and you can request things here. Thank you so so much for everything! I hope you enjoy!

Part one HERE

Part two HERE

“Harry.”

"..."

"Harry."

Harry jolted awake from beside you. "Hi, y/n. What's up?"

"You tell me what's up."

"Um... well, I was just asleep. And now, I'm awake. What about you...?"

"Just wondering why I'm here."

Harry sat up and turned on a lamp. "What? Do you want to go home? I can call you a cab. Pass me my phone. You should've just said."

"No, not 'Why I'm here' as in your apartment here, but as in -" You motioned to the two of you quickly "-here, you know?"

"Oh," Harry put his face in his hands. "I must've misinterpreted something along the way. Oh."

"No, just..." You sighed. How were you supposed to explain this? You racked your brain for an answer to this seemingly impossible question. "Am I some sort of publicity stunt? Or beard? Like, a fake girlfriend?"

Harry raised his eyebrows. "What? What makes you think that?"

"Well, I don't know. It just feels that way. It doesn't feel that way with you, per say, but people online and in the news think that I'm just with you for a bit of good TV."

Harry shook his head, his curls falling into his eyes unintentionally. "That's one hundred percent not the reason why you're 'here', y/n. Not at all."

You turned your head to the side, allowing him to continue on.

Harry just shook his head again. "I- I'm sort of out-of-the-loop on this whole situation. I don't use social media much... can you fill me in?"

You nodded. "Well, we met, obviously. That's where it started."

Harry laughed a little, then waited for you to keep on talking.

"And then after - well, during our first date, or first outing, or whatever, people saw us and took photos and posted them. And that's where it all kicked off."

Harry nodded understandingly.

"Then yesterday, people took loads of photos, and the press and the general public must be starting to get impatient or whatever, because they're really mad. They want to know if I'm a PR stunt or not."

"Yes, but you know you're not one, so what's the worry for?"

You looked down and took a deep breath. "Well, we've only been out twice, and both times the paps found us. Both times we were in a really public place, and a fancy one, too."

"But if you were, wouldn't I have told you? And if not me, someone important from management?"

"My management doesn't tell me much. I thought it could be a bit of a possibility."

"Trust me, y/n. I'm here right now because I am genuinely interested in you. Not because some intern told me to be. I would never, ever keep a secret that big from you. Or any secret, actually. None. I'm sorry you feel that way. I wish you would've told me sooner. I could've arranged a different date, er, whatever."

"Yeah, date," you confirmed. Might as well call it that now. "But I just... well, I guess that's all, really," you laughed.

"So... are we gonna keep doing...-" Harry motioned between the two of you like you had done earlier, "-this?"

"Well, I mean, I can't see why not. I still like you. And you..."

"I obviously still like you. Don't be silly!"

"Okay, and you still like me," you blushed. You felt embarrassed because seriously, blushing? are you 14 again?, but at the same time you were over the moon.

"We can definitely make this whole everyone-thinks-we're-fake thing work. We can just go on, um, dates in private. Like, I can probably get a special reservation..."

"No, no, don't go through all that work. I don't really care what anyone else thinks. And if it gets too bad, do you know what we do?"

"What?"

You quickly grabbed his phone and opened up the camera. "Say cheese!"

The both of you smiled obnoxiously as you hit the capture button.

"That's so cute," Harry laughed as he admired it from his camera roll. "Can I post it?"

"I thought you said you didn't use social media?"

"I'll make an exception for you," he said, kissing your shoulder fondly.

You laughed, then rolled over. "Sorry for bringing this up at the ripe ol' time of three AM."

Harry layed down and held you close. "Don't worry about it. I'm glad you said it when you did."

"Cheers to communication."

"We aren't drinking anything, though."

"Cheers."

***

*Photo of you and Harry from that night, in black and white with the caption ':)'. Posted by @HarryStyles*

@harrysenchiladas: OMG IT'S OFFICIAL OMG OMG OMG OMG

@camillesluvbird: omg, i remember when i used to stan harry. so glad to see him dating someone so talented. wishing the best to the two of you cuties x

@purple.y/n.mf : Is this the confirmation we've been waiting for?

@haroldgucci69420ahhh: ugh.

@BTSboyscouts_: I'M IN CLASS RN U MUST BE JOKINGHDBHDH

@Junkookie1 replying to @BTSboyscouts_: Armyyyyyy

@katiesummer: Ew. Nope. Unstanning.

@directiondiana: Wait, it's not officially confirmed yet though. It's just a pic. Idk.

@t0x1ch3nr13: KILL URSELF BB. ;)

@Sarahsmile.s replying to @t0x1ch3nr13: Okay chill out plz

@LiamPayne: Congrats mate! :)

@Laylaz replying to @LiamPayne: omg GET OUTTTTT NO WAY NO WAT NO ADIOISHDIUERH

@Princesspark222 replying to @LiamPayne: HI LEEYUM

@y/ncherrypit replying to @LiamPayne: IT'S CONFIRMED

@HarryStyles replying to @LiamPayne: Thanks mate :)x

@directiondiana replying to @HarryStyles: NO FREAKING WAYYYDUFHSDU

@paynoisthebest replying to @HarryStyles: I'M CRYING RN

@julie25drew replying to @HarryStyles: THIS IS THE BEST POSSIBLE COMEBACK OF ALL TIME I STG

***

You leaned over Harry's shoulder to try and get a better look at his phone screen. It was early morning - around eight, you assumed, and you were looking through instagram comments together. Harry had secretly posted the photo while he was taking a pee break in the middle of the night, and the entire internet was in shambles.

"Show me! I wanna read some."

"I'm reading them all!"

"You're skipping the mean ones on purpose. I know you are."

"No I'm not! I swear!"

"Yeah, sure."

"What about that one about how I should cut my hair? That one was pretty mean," he said as he pouted and ran a hand through his chocolate brown bed head.

"Mean ones about me, Harry. There's barely any for you, but me, on the other hand..."

"Wow, self centered much?"

"Harry."

"Sorry, sorry. You know that I'm not funny by now."

"Read them."

"There's none."

"Give me your phone." You reached over and grabbed it from his hands, noticing the many rings on his fingers. You wondered if he slept with them on or just slipped them on as soon as he woke up. You decided to ask him later.

Harry watched as you scrolled through thousands, if not millions, of comments in awe. You were surprised to see that he was right - there we little to no negative comments compared to last time.

"Believe me now?"

You nodded silently.

"Told ya I would never lie."

You rolled into him lazily and grinned.

"Want me to make breakfast?"

"...Sure."

Harry jumped up, and you followed him to the kitchen. It was only when you sat down at the table when you realized you were wearing Harry's clothes.

"Oh my god," you muttered, inspecting your shirt.

"What?" He asked half-heartedly, rooting through his SmartFridge for some eggs. Of course this man had a SmartFridge.

"Just looking at my pink Gucci shirt that I'm just magically wearing right now. And... are these sweatpants Gucci, too?"

"They're just spare clothes I hadn't opened yet. Don't worry, there's no cooties or anything."

"How do you just have spare Gucci clothes lying around?"

Harry shrugged as he shut the door and walked over to the oven. "You can keep them. They suit you better."

"Oh. Well, thanks."

"No problem!"

"Want any help with breakfast?"

"Nope!"

"I can make toast."

"No, I've got it."

"I want to."

"The bread is in the breadbox."

You walked over, took out a (homemade) loaf, and began to cut it. "When did I put these clothes on?"

"After I drug you home from the restaurant."

"Huh."

"You don't remember, do you?"

"...No. Can't say that I do."

"Oh, wow. I knew you were drunk, but not that drunk."

"I didn't embarrass myself, did I?"

"No, of course not."

"Oh, thank goodness. I would've cried."

"Well, there was that one time..."

"What?!"

"I'm just kidding."

"Never pursue a career in stand-up comedy."

"Wasn't planning on it!"

You popped the bread into the toaster and sighed.

"Are you tired?" Harry asked.

"No, but I do want to run to the washroom."

"Okay, I'll be out here if ya need me."

"Okay."

"..."

"Where... is it?"

"You don't remember?"

"Clearly no."

"Down that hall, third door on the right. It's the one with the toilet in it."

Harry doubled over at his own joke while you suppressed a smile that eventually cracked. You walked down his fancy apartment hall and went into the bathroom, shutting the door behind you.

It wasn't until you saw his makeup wipes when you remembered a tiny bit of last night - he had makeup. He had makeup because he had makeup wipes, which he offered to you. After that you went to the kitchen and drank something, and then you woke up with Disney+ paused asking him why you were there and confronting him. Suddenly, memories of being confused came rushing back to you. You grabbed a towel and shook your head, smiling - you were glad that drama fest was over.

You walked back into the kitchen and saw Harry laying out eggs and toast carefully, then standing back and admiring his own work. You smiled; he hadn't noticed you walk in, and he was being cute. You gave him a quick peck on the cheek, and he jumped a little.

"Didn't see you there."

"Hi."

"Bon appetite."

"Why, thank you!"

"Do you know what I was thinking? O should do your makeup after breakfast."

You smiled.

"Do you remember that?"

"I actually did back in the washroom."

"Awesome!"

You smiled as you watched him dig into his eggs. "You're good at keeping promises."

"Thank you!"

You grinned and took a bite.

You could get used to this.

Get used to him.

103 notes · View notes

mcatra · 4 years

Text

Catra works at Burger King pt 3

catradora in ther modern party clothes!

AO3

pt1/2

Catra was currently studying in the library, trying to work her way through a math problem.

Her place didn't have internet, so she usually alternated between the school wifi, the public library, and Burger King. Lonnie usually let her study in the break room when the libraries closed up.

Her phone pings with a message, obviously from Adora.

Catra picks up her phone and unlocks it, eyebrow raising when she sees the message.

Adora:

Wyd?

Catra sighs. Of course that airheaded jock texted like a frat boy. As much as she wanted to leave her on read, a deal was a deal.

Catra:

Studying.

Adora:

So diligent! You're so cool, Catra :)

Adora:

I'm weightlifting right now! Gotta work off all those BK calories 💪

Great, maybe she will leave her alone to go do her workout.

Adora:

[image.attachment]

Catra almost drops her phone when she sees the photo Adora sent. It was a shot of her by the mirror, and she was flexing with a dumbbell. She was wearing a black crop top, which framed her abs perfectly. What was she doing, getting flustered over what, a gym rat photo that looked like it belonged on a Tinder profile? After much gay panic and debate, Catra takes a photo of herself with her middle finger up to the camera. She taps ‘send’ angrily.

Catra:

[image.attachment] 🖕 She doesn't get a response for a few minutes, which was odd. Usually Adora typed back at the speed of lightning.

Ping.

Adora:

wow Ur rlly hot Catra looks at the text, slack jawed. What the hell?

Adora:

Oh my god I am so sorry. That was Glimmer, she took my phone.

Catra could almost scream, but she was in a public library. She settles for furiously chewing her out, sharp nails flying over the keyboard.

Catra:

Plz make Ur excuses more believable. It's so unoriginal I can't even post this on r/OopsDidntMeanTo.

Adora:

I really didn't mean to 🥺

Adora:

I mean

Adora:

Glimmer didn't mean to God, Adora was so stupid. Yet here Catra was, blushing like a fool. When she doesn’t answer for a while, her phone starts pinging again with notifications.

>Adora liked your photo

>Adora liked your status >Adora reacted to your comment >Adora liked your photo

It goes on for another 23 times and Catra scrolls through it, dumbfounded. Unblocking her was a mistake.

----

As promised, Adora would visit her garage when her shifts were over bringing groceries. In exchange Catra would cook, as it seemed like Adora would burn water if she tried.

It started off as a weekly thing, but in a true Adora-like fashion it ended up like this everyday. They would talk for hours, catching up on their lost years together.

Adora talked about all sorts of things, like how hard it was adjusting to the soft beds at first and how she requested a hard one. She told her about the contents of the letters she would send to Catra that never went received. Catra just listened, gratified to hear that Adora missed her in their time apart even half as much as she did.

They would sing the little songs they invented back when they were kids and make up whole new ones as they waited for the food. Adora even started learning how to cook after watching Catra, and she would barge in uninvited with new recipes. The food tasted better with company, and Adora took great pleasure in piling her seconds.

Catra would show her the local dumpster and they would go scavenging for items they needed. She taught her how to repair the things they found using Youtube tutorials, and how to disinfect them. It was fun watching Adora try to haggle for prices at the market, or her face when she realized she had to use the outhouse to go to the bathroom at Catra’s.

Days bleed into months, their easygoing friendship making Catra feel at peace for the first time in forever.

Right now they were currently in their trial exam period, which functioned both as practice for their final exams and half of their final marks. They were sitting in the library, chatting about their future majors.

Catra taps a pencil to her chin. ‘Let me guess, you want to do art. No, art history.’

‘Political science, actually! Did you know Eternia University has the number one ranked Political Science course in the entire country?' Adora says, flipping through the uni coursebook.

'Wao, future leader of the free world huh? That's kinda hot.' Catra teases, while Adora swats her in embarrassment.

'What about you?'

'Double degree of Law and Social Work.' Catra replies. 'Cliche I know. But I just want to be in a position where I can sue the shit out of Shadow Weaver. The system is corrupt, and there's thousands of kids being abused.'

'Wow, you're so cool Catra.' Adora says in awe. 'You're so smart, you'd definitely get in.'

'Damn right.' She scoffs, crossing her arms.

'You're gonna love Eternia. I went to their open day, the campus is gorgeous. Oh my gosh we could dorm together!'

'Gross, who'd want to be your roommate?'

'You would.'

'Ew, you're so full of yourself. Anyway get off me, I have work soon and I need to get changed.'

'Ah yes, the cute Burger King apron. I never get tired of it.'

They would always flirt back and forth like this, but nothing ever came out of it.

With her friendship came the feelings that she had repressed long ago, unknotting and resurfacing like they had never gone at all. However she had no idea if Adora even liked her in that way, given how affectionate she was with Bow and Glimmer. She was popular with boys and girls alike, but she never dated anyone. Catra never dared to ask.

Once Adora had fallen asleep in Catra's bed, and the brunette had woken up to the other girls arm around her and their feet tangled together. It reminded her of when they shared the bed as kids, but now they were grown up and this kind of thing didn't have an innocent meaning anymore. Having her there made her heart race and her palms sweaty.

She had wanted to kiss her then. She wanted to kiss her now. Catra wanted every single morning to end up like that.

Adora:

Your birthday is soon! Did you want anything?

You , Catra thinks, like a huge sap.

Catra:

My sanity back.

Adora:

Oh my gosh, we could throw you a party at my place! You’re turning 18 right? We could go out drinking! Angella has this amazing vintage wine collection and I could make cocktails!

Catra receives another wall of text, basically planning the entirety of this birthday party with Bow being the DJ and how Glimmer could make these buns that were to die for. Adora starts going through the entire party guest list until she has to cut in.

Catra:

lol calm down

Adora:

Does this mean Ur on board? 🎉

Catra:

yes fine since you won't shut up about it

Adora:

AAAAAAAH YOU'RE THE BEST!!!!!!! ♥️♥️♥️♥️ U WILL NOT REGRET THIS

DW I WILL PLAN EVERYTHING <3333

💗💖💖😻

The excessive amount of heart emojis make Catra grin dumbly into her palm.

She's glad they're not video chatting, or Adora would've already taken a screenshot.

---

It’s the day of her 18th birthday, and she’s nearing the end of her shift. The best friend squad were waiting for her at their usual table so they could give her a ride.

‘Hey Catra. Can I speak to you out back?’ Lonnie asks, gesturing outside.

What the heck, did she do something wrong? It’s been pretty peaceful as of late, and Catra tries to remember if she had done anything to Kyle recently. She nods, chucking her apron at the back as she tries not to notice Adora’s eyes following her.

Catra goes out to the back of the store, the night air nipping at her shoulders. Lonnie waits for her there, biting her lip.

‘What’s up? Don’t tell me you’re giving me a raise.’ Catra jokes.

Lonnie looks conflicted, and she takes a big breath.

‘I’m sorry but our store isn’t doing so well. I know you’re turning 18, and that means we can’t afford to keep you on anymore.’

‘What…?’

Catra felt numb, like she wasn’t really there in the back alley with Lonnie. It felt like an out of body experience. She could only stare at her, betrayed.

Like Lonnie could read her mind, she tries to correct herself. ‘It wasn’t my decision, it was Octavia’s.’

Of course it was. Her regional manager was the reason she could never just swipe food while she was working. Octavia never liked her, she always reviewed the security cameras and told her off for goofing around. She must’ve known the door incident was on Catra’s shift, and what really happened despite Adora’s cover up. This ‘layoff’ was just an excuse to get rid of her from a financial standpoint.

‘Thank you for all your hard work over these past 3 years. I know you’re going through a rough time, so we will of course give you a recommendation.’

Catra just nods.

She returns to her shift, robotically going through the motions. Catra doesn’t even say anything sassy when Adora asks for a burger with no patty and no onions and no sauce, only cheese on bread.

The lack of a clever comeback to their gag routine has Adora concerned. ‘Are you okay?’

Of course she wasn’t. How could she be? She was going to have to vacate her garage space, not like she had anywhere to put her furniture in. What the hell was she going to do?

‘I’m fine.’ She says, even though tears were threatening to burn a hole in the back of her eyelids. ‘Just...rough day.’

‘It’s your birthday! The party will cheer you up.’ Bow says brightly. ‘I have the sickest playlist of all time, you're gonna love it.'

'My mum isn’t home so we have free reign over the entire house! Come on girl, let's get you changed!' Glimmer crows, too excited about the party to pick up on Catra's mood. 'Makeover time!!'

The two of them force her into Glimmer's Mercedes, on their way to buy every alcohol imaginable from the bottle shop before they go to her house.

The last thing Catra wanted to do was play dress up or even go to her party, but Adora had planned for so long for this. It would definitely ruin the entire night if she refused to go.

Out of all the times they had hung out, she’s never been to Adora’s house. She leans her head against the window when they drive into the fancy part of town, by the lakeside with the multi-million dollar yachts parked in the water.

That still doesn't prepare Catra for when security lets them in through the black gates to the biggest mansion she’s ever seen. There were fountains, perfectly manicured lawns, a tennis court, and was that a helicopter pad?!

It was incredible, she had only seen this kind of luxury in the movies. So Glimmer was rich , rich. No wonder she was put out that Adora had her 18th birthday at Burger King.

Catra looks at Adora with a dumbfounded expression as the attendants let them in, and the blonde looks almost embarrassed when they have to get into an elevator to go to her room.

Glimmer picks out a hybrid of clothes from her and Adora's closets. The walk-in wardrobe is huge, like a department store full of designer clothes, shoes, jewellery and bags.

Her wardrobe alone is the size of Catra's home. The brunette suddenly understands why Adora cried upon seeing her concrete garage space. Looking at it, she wanted to cry too.

Glimmer sets her down on her huge poster bed as she brings out a checkered crop top, ripped black garter shorts and an expensive looking black leather jacket with a gold trim. While Catra reluctantly gets changed, Glimmer picks out a pair of black strappy heeled boots and a hair straightener to battle the bush on Catra’s head.

She sits still while Glimmer goes to work on her face, bringing out an entire Sephora’s worth of makeup. When Catra looks in the vanity mirror, she almost doesn’t recognize herself. Her eyes were framed with false eyelashes, a swooping cateye, smokey eyeshadow, sharp contour and her lips were now cherry red with bold lipstick. Glimmer applies the finishing touches with silver rings and clip on piercings.

She hears Adora inhale with shock from the staircase in her bedroom.

‘Catra you look incredible !’ She gasps. Adora was wearing this cute backless white dress tied with strings, short enough that it cropped above her knees. She was wearing sparkly wedges to go with it, and her hair was curled instead of her usual ponytail. Her delicate gold sword necklace frames her collarbones.

Catra’s throat goes dry. ‘Uh- You too.’

Glimmer smirks, satisfied with her work. She gets changed into her own outfit, a short purple tulle lace dress with a white fur trim and a cute Gucci clutch to accompany it. The pink haired girl spritzes them all with her various floral and sea spray scented perfumes before they head back downstairs.

‘Wow you guys look amazing!’ Scorpia marvels, and Adora’s friends voice their approval as well.

‘Gosh this place is crazy.’ Scorpia whispers to Catra. ‘Did you see their pool? We should’ve just held the swimming carnival here!’

Catra opens her mouth to tell her how Lonnie had let her go, but Sea Hawk’s booming voice interrupts them.

'I challenge you to the ultimate game of BEER PONG!' Sea Hawk announces, spinning the ball on his fingertips.

Of course this gets everyone's competitive spirit going, and everyone gets into pairs.

After a few drinks Catra has almost forgotten what she was worrying about earlier, too focused on the buzz. Her and Adora demolish the other teams by a landslide with their impeccable aim.

Soon the attendants came out with dinner, and it was lavish with every food you could imagine. Lobster, kobe beef, hor d'oeuvres, beluga caviar, kale, and opulent ice cream were all among the plates of food on the table. They bring out a massive 3 tiered truffle cake, the words 'Happy Birthday' written with an oddly crude drawing of Catra.

'You drew this?' She asks, and Adora nods happily. 'You worked so hard on mine, so.' Catra doesn’t have the heart to tell her that the cake was $7 and the drawing of her forehead was meant as an insult. They sing the birthday song for her, and this time no one brings up the cake cutting tradition.

After dinner they sit outside in the garden around the bonfire Sea Hawk had made. He was drunkenly singing a loud shanty while Bow piled in the wood, fanning the flames. Frosta sips on a mocktail, the only one there who wasn’t old enough to drink yet. The fire flickers and dances, casting shadows around them.

Catra downs a few more cocktails and jello shots as she waits for Mermista to light up some fireworks. Apparently it was illegal, but Mermista just waved her off, telling her that she’ll just pay the penalty fee as Catra’s birthday gift. Sea Hawk really did rub off on her.

When she successfully sets them off they light up the sky in dazzling multicoloured sparks. Adora’s friends whoop with glee, taking photos and videos to commemorate the moment.

Adora's side profile is lit up in the dark, and she looks impossibly beautiful among the backdrop of stars. Longing tears at her chest, Catra wants to hold her hand but her throat feels too tight and she can’t move. The truth was that she knew she had always had feelings for Adora, even back when they were just kids back in the foster home. But like a coward, she could never voice them for fear of Adora leaving her side.

A loud neighing can be heard from the stables in response to the loud booming noises from the fireworks.

'Swifty!' Adora says, standing up. The moment's breaks and Catra reels back her hand. 'Stay here, I'll be right back.'

Her chance disappears, she couldn’t say it after all. She watches her go tend to her horse, feeling stupid.

‘Yoohoo~, want a rematch?’ Sea Hawk calls out from the patio, pouring vodka into tiny glasses.

‘Don’t mind if I do.’ Catra replies. She definitely didn’t know her alcohol tolerance levels yet, so it was the perfect time to take that to the test.

Catra confidently does a whole line of shots, determined to drink herself into unconsciousness. Every time she sees a flash of Lonnie or Adora’s face in her mind, she takes another swig. Everyone is cheering her on, screaming the song ‘Shots’ over and over again, also all drunk out of their minds. Sea Hawk taps out at the 5th drink, and everyone screams at Catra’s flawless victory. Scorpia lifts her into the air to do a victory lap, cheering.

Adora finally makes an appearance, alerted by the sound of Catra's shrieky laughter as Scorpia swings her around.

‘Don’t worry, I can take it from here.’ Her school captain says pulling Catra away from her friend. Scorpia just shrugs and makes her way to the food table. ‘Catra, maybe you should slow down.’ Adora tells the giggling girl in her arms.

‘Noo way.’ She slurs, she was enjoying the feeling too much, the alcohol burning through her body, making her feel lightheaded. The light up disco dancefloor starts to blur into a kaleidoscope of colours.

‘You got some weed?’ Catra asks, seeing Perfuma light a bowl. The taller girl hands her an already rolled up one and Catra snatches it to take a long drag. The smoke hits her lungs and she starts coughing.

‘Oi Perfuma, why did you bring drugs? Angella will kill me!' Adora gripes, trying to wrestle the blunt away from Catra.

‘Aw don't be like that! I made some edibles for you guys to try.’ Perfuma says cheerfully, pointing to the pot brownies.

‘See? Scorpia likes them.’ She gestures at the other girl, who seemed to be currently tripping out of her mind and eating everything on the table.

Catra goes to reach for one, but Adora grabs her by the wrist to lead her back inside. 'Alright, you're done for the night. Everyone say bye!'

‘Byee Catra!’

‘Happy birthday!!’

Adora grabs her by the waist to lead her to her bedroom, Catra wobbling after her in the heels Glimmer lent her.

'Ugh Adoraaa, don't be such a party pooper. I'm fine.' She moans, leaning heavily on the other girl. 'Don't you have a shift tomorrow afternoon? I don't want you getting hungover or drug tested.' Adora chides, rummaging around the dark for the light switch.

Catra snorts. 'Oh you don't have to worry about that anymore. Got laid off.'

Adora looks at her in confusion, until realization dawns on her. 'Wait, is that why Lonnie took you outside?'

'Say, I never got to give you your birthday gift.' Catra pushes her hair back, voice sultry as she flings off her jacket. She never pinned herself down as a horny drunk, but here they were. Catra shoves Adora onto the bed, straddling her. Her golden hair spills over the mattress, soft like spun silk.

'You still want that kiss?' Catra whispers in Adora's now burning red ear. 'My knife touched the bottom.'

Adora's face now resembled a fire truck, mouth gaping in shock.

'C-Catra, I…'

Catra presses their lips together, silencing her. She knows she probably tastes like alcohol and weed right now, but she couldn't care less in the moment. Adora's mouth is still slack jawed from mortification, so she takes the opportunity for tongue. She frowns and moves down to her neck when Adora doesn’t return the kiss.

'Catra, what are you doing-'

Catra bites down on Adora's nape. The blonde underneath her lets out a soft gasp, arching her back. Her gold manicured nails dig into her shoulder.

'Stop, you're not thinking straight-!'

'Sure ain't.' Catra grins, licking a stripe down the base of her neck. Adora’s necklace chain jingles with the movement. There was now an impressive hickey there, blooming violet on her pale skin. She pauses to admire her handiwork.

'This isn't you talking, you'll, you'll regret this in the morning.' Adora stutters. She's shivering, their hands now laced together, silver rings clanking.

'I know. I don't care.' She replies, kissing her again. Adora's teeth nick her lip. The alcohol in her system makes her feel lightheaded, confident. No way would she have managed this sober. Adora tastes better than she does, sweet like blueberry soju. Catra's hands wander down further, pulling the strings to untie the back of her dress-

'Catra stop!' Adora suddenly shouts, striking Catra across the cheek in a deafening slap .

Adora's eyes were blazing, almost teary in the dark. Her breathing was irregular, panting in and out. Catra stills, clutching her cheek. The look in her eyes sobered her immediately.

Adora looks down at her palm, realizing what she just did. 'Sorry for hitting you!' She flounders. 'It's just that, you're only doing this because you’re drunk and upset, right?’

Catra just stares at her before climbing off. Cold realization settles as the fog in her brain clears. 'You're right. Forget it.'

She sits on the edge of the bed, numbly watching Adora hurriedly trying to re-tie the back of her now wrinkled dress. Her lips are stained with Catra’s red lipstick. Adora catches her looking, and she quickly turns away to smooth down her hair with her fingers. 'You've had more than enough to drink tonight. I’ll get you some water to clear your head.’

She gets up to turn on the light switch, and Catra blinks in the harsh light from the chandeliers. ‘Come on, let’s get you sobered up, okay?’ Adora leads her to the kitchen on the same floor, gingerly placing her friend on the slippery bar stool.

The blonde goes to get the chilled jug of infused water from the fridge and pours it into a glass. Adora slides it across the island, and Catra reluctantly takes it. She sips at it, mint and lemon on her tongue. It tasted way better than her hose water.

‘I’ll uh, pick out some groceries for you since we’re here and all.’ Adora says awkwardly into the silence, turning around to rummage through her pantry.

Suddenly Catra is brought back to the whole reason why she was sitting here in this oversized mansion in the first place. Their friendship agreement. The one she had just violated. Catra had never felt more stupid to mistake Adora’s kindness and guilt for actual feelings. She felt like a charity case, waiting to collect food from the soup kitchen.

Of course Adora didn't like her back. She just saw her as someone needing to be saved. The product of survival guilt. Catra wanted to whack her head on the corner of her marbled countertop and not wake up.

Adora takes out a green plastic bag, and starts filling it with everything and anything she can get. Cans, pasta, biscuits, fruits and vegetables. Actually this feeling was more like being one of those poor kids that white girls would pose next to for their Instagram after their trip to Africa. Did Adora have fun, volunteering to slum it up in her place while she returned here? All she ever wanted her entire life was to be Adora’s equal.

Scorpia and Sea Hawk's loud laughter and DJ music can be heard downstairs in the garden, beyond the tall golden trimmed windows. The class difference between them stretched like an unfathomable canyon. Living the classy bougie dream until the clock struck midnight and she was back in her run down garage. Except soon she won’t even have that anymore. Why did Adora have to bring her here? It was almost cruel.

Catra's suddenly overcome with the urge to vomit. She nearly falls off the high chair in her rush to throw up the unholy cocktail of alcohol into the sink. Tears bead in her eyes from the sour taste as she continues to vomit out everything she ate that night. She can feel Adora by her side, patting her back reassuringly.

It was by far the worst birthday she has ever had.

The morning of, Catra woke up in Adora’s bed with a splitting headache.

Unfortunately she was not given the gift of amnesia, as she vividly remembered every last excruciating detail about last night.

She spots Adora’s mop of blonde hair under a blanket on the floor, even though there were a billion other free spare rooms to sleep in. Adora was probably too afraid to share the same bed as her now.

Catra’s borrowed crop top digs uncomfortably into her skin, and she angrily flings it off her body. The shorts stick to her like a second skin, smelling of tequila. She grabs her old Burger King uniform and puts it on, though even this didn’t belong to her now.

Adora shifts in her sleep, and Catra lightly steps over her to get to the door. The last thing she wanted was for Adora to wake up.

As soon as she’s out, she runs out to the elevator and bangs frantically on the buttons until it sends her to the bottom floor. The lift opens with a ding and in her haste she almost crashes headfirst into Glimmer.

‘Oh hey! Are you going to work?’ Glimmer greets. She was in her silk pajamas and slippers, holding a glass of orange juice.

‘Uh. Yeah.’ Catra lies, trying her best to look natural.

‘Some party last night huh? Lucky today is a Saturday.’ Glimmer says conversationally, unaware of Catra’s urge to throw her across the room. ‘Hey, what happened to your cheek?’

Catra clutches her face, it still strung from where Adora struck her. ‘Nothing.’

Glimmer raises an eyebrow. ‘Well anyway, did you wanna stick around for breakfast? The cooks made pancakes, bacon, eggs, the whole deal.' She peeks behind Catra. 'Is Adora still not up yet?’

As much as Catra wanted to scream get out of my way she schools her expression to her best customer service smile. ‘Nope she’s still sleeping it off. Anyway I’m gonna be late so I can’t stick around.’

‘Did you need a lift?’ Glimmer asks. It dawns on the brunette she couldn’t exactly run the entire way back home. ‘I’ll ask one of the drivers to take you back so you make it to your shift.’

Catra thanks her lucky stars that Glimmer was still too hungover to drive her. She wouldn’t have been able to dodge her questions if she had.

‘Yes please.’ Catra says, giddy with relief. ‘Thank you.’

‘Ooh and before I forget, Adora told me last night to give you this.’ Glimmer says, grabbing the green bag of groceries off the counter. The shorter girl bundles it into Catra’s arms before she can object.

‘Get home safe.’ She says, waving as the attendant leads her out the door.

Catra looks down at the cans of food in her arms and doesn’t say anything.

------

The days leading up to graduation were painful, to say the least.

They more or less pretend the kiss didn't happen. Adora never brings it up, and neither does Catra.

She would stare at the ceiling, wishing she had never gotten piss drunk at her birthday and kissed her. Adora was right, she did regret it. It was awful, the look on Adora's face when she slapped Catra replays in her mind and nightmares over and over again. It was mortifying.

Adora still messages her every 3 days, and Catra still replies, though her words are empty and devoid of banter. I'm worried about you, she says. I'm fine , Catra always responds.

The brunette continues to humour her to keep the peace, only shutting down when her old job was mentioned. Catra doesn’t allow Adora back into her home again.

Sometimes they study together, but she can't concentrate when Adora wears her glasses. Her heart hurts, so she cradles her cheek and tries not to remember.

The hickey she had branded Adora's neck with had been covered with foundation until it faded away. None of her friends had teased her about it, so she clearly had not told a single soul what had happened.

Catra bites at the scab on her lip from where Adora’s teeth nicked her until it bleeds. She wants to apologize, but the words stick on her tongue and she can't bring herself to talk about that night.

Catra knew Adora was only here by her side to alleviate her guilt. Shame buries itself under her skin every time she's near her, like she was too embarrassed to even exist in the same space as Adora. She wants to disappear.

Exams are hard, and without an internet connection after the library closes at 6pm made it difficult to study. In her heart she knew she wasn't going to come out on top. Her ranking had slipped, she wasn't even at second place anymore. Rent was due at the end of the month, and without her Burger King wage she knew she'll be kicked out sooner than later.

Catra felt stressed and self destructive, and the only thing that kept her from falling off the edge completely was Scorpia. As much as she hated depending on others, she'd much rather her old coworker than Adora.

Her classmates seemed to like this new, muted down version of Catra who didn't argue and just stayed quiet most of the time. Fighting back was too difficult when all she wanted to do was blend into the wallpaper. All they talked about was where they were going for vacation after graduation, and Catra certainly had nothing to contribute to that conversation.

She felt like crying, all the time. It was agony, wanting to burst out into tears randomly while she sat wasting away in the student council room. Despite herself, she missed Burger King, and she just kept getting ghosted or rejected in her other job applications. Sometimes when she really wanted to indulge herself, she'd go cry silently in the school toilet stall.

Glimmer notices the change, and she catches her glaring. 'You don't seem as alive lately. Your eye bags are huge.'

'S'fine.' Catra replies, hiding her hands so she doesn't see how they shake. Honestly Catra couldn't remember the last time she slept.

'Pfft, don't lie to me. Adora's worried about you. You're getting skinnier, and your eyes are always raw. All you do is stare into space.'

Catra bites down on her nails. Of course she knew that. But she's gone through this before, and she'll do it again.

'What happened between you two?’

‘None of your business.’ Catra replies, shuffling her way to the hall.

Their graduation ceremony starts off uneventfully. Every student’s parents except Catra’s sit proudly in the audience, eager to watch their kid graduate. One by one they receive their certificate and return to their seats.

Adora and Catra stand side by side onstage, as Adora makes their final speech as School Captain. Through the blinding lights, she sees Angella waving proudly at her adoptive daughter in the crowd.

Catra looks at Adora in the corner of her eye. She must look pathetic, lovesick and pining after someone she couldn’t have.

‘It’s been such an honour serving the entire faculty and students of this school. I couldn’t have done it without my amazing Vice-Captain and all of my prefects. Now I’m proud to hand over my badge to the next School Captain, Frosta.’

They go through the rest of the ceremony like that, each member of the student council handing their badges to their successors.

Soon their Principal comes up to the podium, tapping it once and clearing her throat.

‘Announcing our honor student, and the winner of the scholarship to Eternia University…’ Castaspella says, turning over the sign card.

‘None other than our school captain, Adora!’

Everyone starts clapping, and Adora walks across the stage to shake Castaspella's hand.

Sounded about right. Catra never won against Adora in her entire life. She had already expected this outcome. Like a game of cat and mouse, going over and over for all eternity.

Adora would excel with her elite education and secure a well paying job. Catra would struggle at the bottom indefinitely, never amounting to anything. She never would, if Adora was still there next to her. When the blonde re-entered her life, everything she had been working towards for years just collapsed. Her job, her home, her School Captain status, her chance at the scholarship, her sanity.

She had to be wiped clean. A fresh start.

The flower petals were falling, the streets decorated with a vibrant pink. The other students mill out of the crowd with their parents, chatting excitedly about what was next in their futures. She waits for Adora underneath a tree.

'Congratulations.' Catra says, when she finally spots the other girl in the crowd. Adora pulls away from Angella’s embrace to meet her.

'You deserve this so much more than I do.' Adora says, her voice pained like she didn't just win a full ride to her dream university. 'You should take it.'

'It's in your name, silly.' Catra replies, lightly tapping her with her rolled up certificate.

'Besides, I knew you'd get into Eternia, so I never applied.'

Adora blinks dumbly. '...What? Aren’t we going to the same university?’

She always was a bit slow on the uptake. ‘Only you decided that, stuupid. Say, it's about time we ended this right?'

‘Catra, what are you...'

'Our deal. You don't need to feel guilty anymore or bring me anything.' Catra says, her voice sounding like it didn't belong to her. She rummages in her bag, bringing out Adora's spare varsity jacket that she hadn’t returned. 'Here, take this. Thank you for all the help.'

'What do you mean? You want to stop being friends?' Adora says in disbelief, taking the jacket.

Catra nods. ‘I can’t continue with the arrangement. I hope you understand.’

‘I don’t! Was I the only one who thought we were friends, real ones?’ Adora asks.

‘...That’s right. I never saw you as a friend. You were just a meal ticket to me. Are you happy now?’ Catra snaps back. Shit, that wasn’t what she meant to say. She had planned to end this quickly and painlessly, on a high note. Trust Adora to put up a fight.

Something seems to click in Adora’s brain. ‘Is this about the night of the party?’

‘Figure that out yourself.’ Catra replies, turning to walk away.

Adora grabs onto her arm. ‘Wait! If- if that’s what you want, I’ll give it! Just don't go!'

This dumb blonde really was offering up her body, out of what? A sense of duty? How stupid.

‘Is that right?’ Catra says, walking closer to her. Adora backs up until she is pinned to the tree. They’re face to face now.

‘Can you really do this?’ Catra lifts Adora’s chin by a finger.

Finally it seems to dawn on Adora exactly what Catra wanted. She swallows, biting her lip.

There’s a flicker of hesitation, before Adora’s eyes squeeze shut defiantly. The blonde is shaking like a leaf, her breath coming out in panicked stutters from her pursed lips.

Catra just stares at Adora’s scrunched up face impassively. Her scared reaction was the only confirmation she needed for closure.

She flicks the other girl’s forehead, and her big blue eyes open in confusion. ‘Chill out, I’m not that evil to do it to someone so unwilling.’

Adora blinks, clutching her forehead. ‘Catra?’

Suddenly Angella’s voice cuts through their conversation from the car park. ‘Adora dear, are you done chatting with your friend? We have reservations!'

‘Um, I…’ Her old school captain opens her mouth to say something, but Angella's started to lose her patience. 'Adora, how long are you going to stand there? Glimmer is already waiting for us at the restaurant!'

Catra just smiles tiredly. ‘Take care, dummy.’

She watches Adora being dragged off unwillingly by her adoptive mother to the car.

Catra lets out a sigh. Her phone pings with a message from Scorpia, and she knows it's time to go.

---

By the time Angella releases her from their graduation celebration, Adora can feel that it's already too late.

Adora:

Please, can we talk? Let me fix this

A pop up appears over the screen.

Message Not Sent

This person isn't receiving messages at this time.

Adora sends another message, but they all go undelivered. Catra had blocked her again. Panic spikes through her veins, and she quickly dons on a jacket and grabs her car keys.

She sneaks out that night, down the familiar winding path through the bush that led to Catra's place.

'Catra?' She rolls up the garage door, blinking in the darkness. When her eyes adjusted, she found Catra's old home completely emptied.

All the furniture and items her friend had collected over the years, they were all gone. The little stove where they cooked, the old mattress where they talked late into the night, all vanished like they were never there.

A single green plastic bag remained on the floor untouched, filled to the brim of food.

catra working at BK fanart:

https://twitter.com/huetrooper/status/1265188930741080064

https://twitter.com/quackelroys/status/1271199987540668416?s=20

https://mcatra.tumblr.com/post/620493235561824256/your-catra-works-at-burger-king-fic-is-great-you

pt1, pt 2

Catra was currently studying in the library, trying to work her way through a math problem.

Her place didn't have internet, so she usually alternated between the school wifi, the public library, and Burger King. Lonnie usually let her study in the break room when the libraries closed up.

Her phone pings with a message, obviously from Adora.

Catra picks up her phone and unlocks it, eyebrow raising when she sees the message.

Adora:

Wyd?

Catra sighs. Of course that airheaded jock texted like a frat boy. As much as she wanted to leave her on read, a deal was a deal.

Catra:

Studying.

Adora:

So diligent! You're so cool, Catra :)

Adora:

I'm weightlifting right now! Gotta work off all those BK calories 💪

Great, maybe she will leave her alone to go do her workout.

Adora:

[image.attachment]

What was she doing, getting flustered over what, a gym rat photo that looked like it belonged on a Tinder profile?

After much gay panic and debate, Catra takes a photo of herself with her middle finger up to the camera. She taps ‘send’ angrily.

Catra:

[image.attachment] 🖕

She doesn't get a response for a few minutes, which was odd. Usually Adora typed back at the speed of lightning.

Ping.

Adora:

wow Ur rlly hot

Catra looks at the text, slack jawed. What the hell?

Adora:

Oh my god I am so sorry. That was Glimmer, she took my phone.

Catra could almost scream, but she was in a public library. She settles for furiously chewing her out, sharp nails flying over the keyboard.

Catra:

Plz make Ur excuses more believable. It's so unoriginal I can't even post this on r/OopsDidntMeanTo.

Adora:

I really didn't mean to 🥺

Adora:

I mean

Adora:

Glimmer didn't mean to

God, Adora was so stupid. Yet here Catra was, blushing like a fool. When she doesn’t answer for a while, her phone starts pinging again with notifications.

>Adora liked your photo

>Adora liked your status >Adora reacted to your comment >Adora liked your photo

It goes on for another 23 times and Catra scrolls through it, dumbfounded. Unblocking her was a mistake.

----

As promised, Adora would visit her garage when her shifts were over bringing groceries. In exchange Catra would cook, as it seemed like Adora would burn water if she tried.

It started off as a weekly thing, but in a true Adora-like fashion it ended up like this everyday. They would talk for hours, catching up on their lost years together.

Days bleed into months, their easygoing friendship making Catra feel at peace for the first time in forever.

Catra taps a pencil to her chin. ‘Let me guess, you want to do art. No, art history.’

‘Political science, actually! Did you know Eternia University has the number one ranked Political Science course in the entire country?' Adora says, flipping through the uni coursebook.

'Wao, future leader of the free world huh? That's kinda hot.' Catra teases, while Adora swats her in embarrassment.

'What about you?'

'Wow, you're so cool Catra.' Adora says in awe. 'You're so smart, you'd definitely get in.'

'Damn right.' She scoffs, crossing her arms.

'You're gonna love Eternia. I went to their open day, the campus is gorgeous. Oh my gosh we could dorm together!'

'Gross, who'd want to be your roommate?'

'You would.'

'Ew, you're so full of yourself. Anyway get off me, I have work soon and I need to get changed.'

'Ah yes, the cute Burger King apron. I never get tired of it.'

They would always flirt back and forth like this, but nothing ever came out of it.

She had wanted to kiss her then. She wanted to kiss her now. Catra wanted every single morning to end up like that.

Adora:

Your birthday is soon! Did you want anything?

You, Catra thinks, like a huge sap.

Catra:

My sanity back.

Adora:

Oh my gosh, we could throw you a party at my place! You’re turning 18 right? We could go out drinking! Angella has this amazing vintage wine collection and I could make cocktails!

Catra:

lol calm down

Adora:

Does this mean Ur on board? 🎉

Catra:

yes fine since you won't shut up about it

Adora:

AAAAAAAH YOU'RE THE BEST!!!!!!! ♥️♥️♥️♥️ U WILL NOT REGRET THIS

DW I WILL PLAN EVERYTHING <3333

💗💖💖😻

The excessive amount of heart emojis make Catra grin dumbly into her palm.

She's glad they're not video chatting, or Adora would've already taken a screenshot.

---

It’s the day of her 18th birthday, and she’s nearing the end of her shift. The best friend squad were waiting for her at their usual table so they could give her a ride.

‘Hey Catra. Can I speak to you out back?’ Lonnie asks, gesturing outside.

Catra goes out to the back of the store, the night air nipping at her shoulders. Lonnie waits for her there, biting her lip.

‘What’s up? Don’t tell me you’re giving me a raise.’ Catra jokes.

Lonnie looks conflicted, and she takes a big breath.

‘I’m sorry but our store isn’t doing so well. I know you’re turning 18, and that means we can’t afford to keep you on anymore.’

‘What…’