𝑻𝒉𝒐𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒇𝒂𝒓𝒆 / Chapter V.
PAIRING: Javier Peña x Original Female Character
SUMMARY: Down on the west coast, we got a saying...
WORD COUNT: 6.1k
RATING: 18+ Mature topics such as sex, drugs, murder, the occult, religion, cannibalism and other triggering matters will be explored in this body of work. Minors DNI.
CHAPTER SPECIFIC TAGS: A sexy performance by our main character, he's absolutely whipped, THEY HUG FOR THE FIRST TIME !!, is it really a slow burn if they don't yearn for one another, an insufferable dad, speaking of dad back on my dbf!Javi bs, other things that I'm probably forgetting.
DISCLAIMER/WARNINGS: The Javier Peña referenced in this body of work is solely based off of the character that appears in Netflix’s Narcos and not the actual person. Very canon divergent and I will tweak things as I see fit to compliment the narrative of this story. While efforts have been made to be accurate in terms of canon timeline, a lot of details will be fictionalized, including the usage of the song(s) that Paloma will perform throughout the story.
A/N: hi friends! hope you all enjoy this chapter, i was completely smitten while writing this since i'm such a needy little thing when it comes to a good slow burn ship lmfao also i love how we've all collectively decided that javi is lana del rey coded like SO true bestie !! like i love me some flirty!Javi okay sue me !! let him flirt with all the women !! anyways feel free to drop any type of feedback/support on this blog or ao3. i'd really appreciate it <3
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Tonight, Paloma is consumed by a fiery fervor, ignited by the series of eventful days she's encountered. Each moment pulses with vibrant energy as she eagerly anticipates taking the stage, a surge of excitement coursing through her veins. With every fiber of her being electrified, she yearns to pour forth the myriad emotions that have enveloped her, releasing them into the world through music.
Between Javier’s ‘will they won’t they’ repartee and August’s piquant personality; these men have been bending her will to remain strong. It’s a peculiar thing, reminiscent to the stories she reads or movies she watches.
Paloma hasn’t stopped to think about it in a logical sense, where these newfound ‘relationships’ can go, and frankly she doesn’t want to stop and think. She just wants to be … allow herself to indulge in the pleasantries of the attention.
She’s at the bar hours before she’s set to do her gig, cheerfully enjoying the company of her best friend as she drinks her signature root beer and muddled cherry mocktail. She eyes the new karaoke machine that’s just recently been acquired and leans in to get Sloane’s attention.
“ Has anyone used it? ” She gestures to the machine and Slo shakes her head, wiping down the counter.
“ No, but I think you’d be the perfect person to break it in. Pretty sure I saw some Madonna songs on there… ” Sloane tells her in a sing-song tone, causing Paloma’s eyes to light up and she hops off the bar stool to walk up to the machine that consisted of a large television set and the actual karaoke machine.
She plays around with it for a second, familiarizing herself with the controls before she’s skimming through the dozens of available songs.
The evening crowd has started to file in, she doesn’t even realize since she’s been too busy figuring the machine out. She lets out a delighted sound of glee once she sees that Like a Prayer is one of the available songs and wastes no time in selecting it.
The song begins and she takes her position on the stage, few eyes on her. She doesn’t even need the large teleprompter for the lyrics. Bringing the microphone up to her lips, she begins to sing the intro softly…
♫
Once the music picks up, Paloma sways her hips when she needs to, keeping up with the song as it’s one of her all time favorites. She’s done a variant of this performance in her bedroom with her hair brush many of times.
As the final notes of the song fade away, Paloma finds herself nearly breathless, her heart still racing from the intensity of her performance. The thunderous applause washes over her like a wave, enveloping her in a blanket of appreciation. With a wide smile adorning her face, she gracefully bows and waves to the audience before delicately placing the microphone back on its stand. As the jukebox resumes its melody, filling the void left by her absence, Paloma makes her way back to her spot at the bar counter, basking in the warmth of the moment.
“ You know how to put on a show! ” The compliment comes from a redhead sitting in the stool closest to her.
“ Thank you. ” Paloma’s mouth curves into a smile as she eyes her. A bride sash draped horizontally over her torso with the small veil clipped in her hair and she’s dressed in all white. There’s three other woman behind her whom she assumes is the bridal party. “ And congratulations. ” She raises her glass that had been replenished courtesy of her best friend.
They cheers then engage in some small talk when the bride, Wendy, confirms to Paloma that they are out for her bachelorette celebration. They had some car troubles in the middle of their travels to Austin which led to a rest stop here in Seminary until morning.
It wasn’t how she had planned to celebrate the trip, but there was nothing she could do about it so she’s making the best of the situation.
This has an idea pop into Paloma’s head, empathetic as ever, and she says her goodbyes once the band arrives. The plan is simple enough; perform some of her more sultry songs for the stranded bridal party in hopes to make their night a little more entertaining. It doesn’t take much before she’s got her band on board, tapping on the microphone to get everyone’s attention when she returns to the stage.
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Javier did not plan on being at The Whiskey Fox tonight, especially with the lack of sleep he’s endured recently. Not that he hasn’t dealt with it before, but it’s been on an unforgiving incline as of late.
The worst part about his insomnia is how inconsistent it can be. He could go weeks with little to no sleep then suddenly a period where it’s all he does. Hasn’t hit the latter of the cycle just yet, but he can feel it creeping up on him at an agonizing pace.
It’s a complete shit show and infuriatingly lonely. He wouldn’t admit to it, however.
Exhausting himself throughout the day with hopes that he’ll be bone-tired by the end of the night, he makes an impromptu stop at the bar where hopefully a few glasses of bourbon will have him easing into sleep the second he makes it home.
It’s a long shot, nothing irregular of what he does on a regular night, but fuck he really needs to get some rest. He can only function off coffee and nicotine for so long.
The bar is in high spirits the second he steps foot in, and with that comes the reminder that it’s a weekend night which means…
Eyes drift over to the stage and sure enough, she’s front and center, and he fights the urge to gravitate towards her.
Instead, Javier opts to sit at the bar, easily getting Sloane’s attention and ordering his bourbon.
“ Y’know… I think this is the first time you’ve in been here while I’ve been on shift. You hidin’ from me, handsome? ” She begins with a teasing simper, expertly pouring the drink.
Javier chuckles briefly, giving her a once-over, “ Had I known a pretty little thing like you was tendin’ the bar I woulda been in here much more consistently. ” Flirtatious as ever, despite his exhaustion, brown eyes meeting her gaze as she diligently sets the glass in front of him with a vivacious grin.
“ Oooh, you’re a sweet talker. I like that. Not many darin’ boys ‘round here. ” She leans forward, making a point to press her breasts together to show off her cleavage which he shamelessly ogles.
“ S’a good thing I’m not a boy , sweetheart. ” Bringing the glass up for a sip, their stare isn’t broken and she cocks her head to the side in interest.
“ A great thing, even. You’re all man. ” Her southern accent drips with sensuality, the suggestion hanging heavy in the air between them. For a fleeting moment, Javier entertains the idea of inviting her back to his place to relieve some tension and get some rest, but before he can act, she's whisked away by another patron, leaving him to ponder the tantalizing chemistry that sizzled between them.
Divine intervention, Javi thinks, since his interest for her drops the second he hears Paloma’s voice. Placing some cash on the counter, he moves over to the table he’s accustomed to sitting at, distancing himself from the distraction with great tits behind the bar.
♫
His attention now fully on the woman on stage, her honeyed voice and the movements of her hands as they trail along the length of her body, diligently tracing her curves.
Her attire is understated yet alluring. Clad in a sleek black dress with a sweetheart neckline, its hem teasingly grazing the curve of her thigh, she exudes an effortless elegance. The mid-thigh high boots she wears elevate her stature, causing her back to arch ever so subtly, drawing his gaze to the enticing curve of her ass. With each graceful movement, she exudes a magnetic allure, her hips swaying with a tantalizing rhythm that ignites Javier's imagination, conjuring images of her poised above him in a passionate embrace with his cock drilling deep inside of her.
The glass in his hand feels suddenly heavy as his thoughts drift to her, so he takes a long sip, relishing the fiery sweetness that ignites his senses. Mesmerized by her performance, he finds himself completely entranced, lost in the melody of her voice and the grace of her movements. As Paloma begins her descent from the stage, weaving her way through the tables scattered around the room, a sense of anticipation stirs within him. With bated breath, he shifts in his seat, eagerly awaiting her arrival, his heart pounding in anticipation of her presence.
She continues her performance, tastefully interacting the patrons nearby, pocketing bills that are being handed to her. She handles it suavely, tucking the wads of cash in the band of her boot that’s pressed up against her thigh.
Javier’s eyes fall to the area as she does this, running his tongue over his teeth and truly contemplating if staying away was worth it all. He digs into his back pocket, fishing out the leather wallet and swiftly pulling out whatever was in it to give her.
It’s then that she approaches him, the spotlight making Paloma look more radiant than any star he’s ever seen. Their eyes meet in a enchanted gaze, his lip tugs up into a cocky and expectant smirk in which she matches before slowly rounding behind him, almost singing in his ear.
“ Te deseo, cariño, boy, it's you I desire. ”
Javier’s jaw ticks as her touch runs along the expanse of his broad shoulders, and before she’s able to leave him completely, he slips the bills into her palm before letting it drop from his grasp.
That line was a seductive invitation, crafted for him alone, and he can feel it in the way her lips curve into a knowing smirk. Was it penned with him in mind, sung in Spanish to tantalize him? The notion ignites a fierce longing within Javier, his skin tingling with anticipation. Her lyrics, saturated with desire, mirror the very same craving she stirs within him. The hunger in her eyes speaks volumes, a silent plea for the passion they both yearn to share.
She finishes the song, the table of a bridal party praising her drunkenly as the music dies down and everyone begins their applause. Some whistling at her, too.
Javier remains unmoved, reclining effortlessly in his chair, one arm draped casually over its back. His gaze is fixed on her, unwavering, a fresh cigarette dangling from his lips, the tendrils of smoke curling around him lazily. He makes no attempt to conceal his admiration, indifferent to whether she notices his lingering stare. The bold move she just made only serves to fuel his desire, leaving his infatuation as intense and consuming as ever.
It's evident that Paloma seeks his pursuit, craving the thrill of his relentless chase until she willingly offers herself completely. Though Javier typically refrains from chasing pussy, he finds himself captivated by the enticing dynamics of their relationship—a tantalizing dance of push and pull. This experience is vastly different from his usual encounters, where women often yield quickly to his advances. With Paloma, however, the challenge persists, defying his expectations and fueling his intrigue.
For a time, Javier reveled in the thrill of it all—the fleeting encounters with women at brothels, the allure of one-night stands. The fast-paced rhythm of constant attention and swift liaisons kept him occupied and amused. Yet now, a shift has occurred. He finds himself drawn to the unhurried pace of whatever undefined connection he shares with Paloma. It's a departure from the whirlwind of his past experiences, and despite its ambiguity, it holds a newfound allure, captivating him in its gradual unfolding.
It’s building tension, prolonged foreplay to a shared fantasy that’ll only bring them both conflict. Conflict that he doesn’t want to be burdened with…
Yet, she makes it so hard to stay the fuck away.
As she vanishes into the depths of the back area, Javier swiftly drains the last remnants of his drink, feeling more restless than when he had come in.
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It has been days since her last performance, yet she hasn’t stopped thinking about that night. It was her first time doing anything remotely sensual as she had–– and she liked it. It gave her a lot of real confidence and not that of which she pretends she obtains.
She’s already preparing herself for the scrutiny she’ll receive from a certain group of gossips at church for putting on such a scandalous performance.
Whatever, she thinks, people were going to talk shit regardless and she’s never felt more sexier and empowered. The self-assurance she got from people handing her tips and receiving Javier’s undivided attention was exhilarating.
It had been more than enough for her to quickly improvise a specific lyric in her song. For him .
Paloma is at a loss to rationalize her impulsive behavior as she approached him, swept up in a sensation of allure akin to a siren's call, drawing in a lost sea captain with an irresistible charm.
He’d been more preoccupied than usual the week beforehand, leaving Paloma to grapple with an unexpected yearning for his presence. Their interactions had become fleeting, confined to brief exchanges in passing or hurried conversations over the phone, often revolving around attempts to reach the sheriff.
So seeing him there that night, very present at her gig, she knew she had to do something big to give him the hint that she is very, very interested in doing something, anything with him. Consequences be damned.
Paloma won’t be the one to take it there, that’s a rookie move. If Javier is as interested as he appears to be, then she fully intends to practice some patience to have him crawling over to her .
Would he actually do that, though? She only knows bits and pieces of his romantic endeavors and from the little information she’s gathered; he doesn’t seem like the type to chase but she could be wrong.
There is no harm in trying to seduce him, really, and if he rejects her then she’ll take the hint and move on. It’s not like she wants to date the man or have him fall to one knee asking for her hand in marriage.
No, Paloma just really wants to get laid. Too many nights have came and went where all she’s dreamed of is the hot, older deputy sheriff screwing her into oblivion.
Then at the bar… he actually gave her money, matter of fact, he had been the biggest tipper of the night. Paloma contemplated giving the cash back to him, thinking it was entirely too much, but she talked herself out of the idea solely because she found the transaction incredibly hot.
With caution not to invest her entire focus in him, she’s also been seeing August. Their time together brings forth a distinct experience, stirring uncertainty about her romantic attachment to him. It wasn't until yesterday afternoon, amidst the tranquil shade of a sprawling oak tree, engrossed in shared reading, that an almost kiss cast light on her true sentiments towards him.
Their connection pulsates with an undeniable chemistry, his gaze lavishing upon her as if she were the rarest gem. United by shared passions for literature and idyllic beliefs, he breathes vitality into the stifling surroundings. While the opportunity for a shared kiss tantalizes, Paloma's thoughts persistently drift toward Javier, rendering the moment bittersweet.
Lost in her own thoughts amidst the task of pulling weeds from the garden, she remains oblivious to the persistent ringing of the landline inside. Only as the sound penetrates her consciousness does she snap out of her reverie. Hastily removing her gardening gloves, she reaches for the phone just before its final ring.
It’s Lola from The Whiskey Fox letting her know that a letter has just been dropped off–– addressed specifically for Paloma.
She is confused yet intrigued at the news, and in no time she’s in town; sitting on top of the counter ripping the poor envelope open and scanning the words on the piece of paper.
Apparently, the bride who was here last weekend contracts acts from all over Texas to perform at the state fair in Dallas. Seems like Paloma was conspicuous enough to warrant an invite.
A much bigger crowd, her first real chance to branch out by doing something she’s genuinely passionate about.
After freaking out about it with the ladies at the bar, even taking a celebratory tequila shot, Paloma is racing to make it to the station to share the good news with her dad.
She hurriedly hops off her bike, not even bothering to chain it to the rack as she snatches the letter and saunters up the steps and into the building overly excited.
Clearly, she’s interrupted something as both men’s heads snap in her direction with heavy, worried looks in their eyes when she barges in.
“ What’s wrong? Are you okay?! ” Her father steps towards her, scanning her for any injuries.
“ Yes I’m fine daddy, ” she tucks her hair behind her ears to contain some of her excitement as she feels some of the leftover apprehensiveness from before she arrived, “ I’m just excited to show you this, look! I got invited to preform at the state fair! ” She shoves the paper into his chest and he turns it around so he can read its contents.
Her eyes are bright in anticipation, searching his stoic face for a reaction.
“ Sweetheart, this is wonderful... ” He trails off and her smile begins to fade at his tone.
“ What? What’s wrong? ” She questions, eyes flickering over to Javier who stands almost awkwardly behind the sheriff.
“ A girl in Fayette has gone missing. We just got the call. About to head over to help ‘em out. ” The news has Paloma drawing in a breath, all the enthusiasm in her body evaporating as he hands the paper back to her.
“ O-Oh, that’s–– ”
“ This is amazing news, babygirl. We’ll talk about it more when I get home later, alright? We gotta get goin’. ”
The dismissal breaks her, and there’s a second where her demeanor shows it but it’s only temporarily as she nods understandingly then steps aside to allow him to maneuver his way into his office.
“ State fair, huh? That’s huge, congrats bella . ” Javier’s voice keeps her from scurrying away and she gives him a small smile.
“ Thanks, but seems like there’s more important things to focus on. ” Paloma won’t be self-centered by taking up any more of their valuable time. A girl is missing and if they want to come out on top then their focus has to remain on her and not Paloma’s trivial news.
“ You’re right but that doesn’t mean we can’t be happy for you. ” She lifts her gaze from her shoes up to meet his at the use of ‘we’ and she melts, instantly.
In his captivating brown eyes, there's a delicate balance of gentleness and resolve, causing her knees to weaken slightly. As she meets his gaze, she discerns the subtle golden flecks that add a compassionate depth to his stare. It's as if his eyes extend a warm invitation, enveloping her in a silent understanding that speaks volumes.
“ Yeah, I guess. Just hate that all this is still happenin’. I’m assumin’ y’all aren’t any closer to findin’ out who’s doin’ all this, huh? ” Since her father doesn’t tell her anything except what he needs to, Paloma isn’t fully aware of the exasperatingly severity or statuses of the cases.
Javier lets out a heavy sigh, thumb dragging across his trimmed mustache then bottom lip and her eyes zero in on the movement, which she shouldn’t find as attractive as she does. “ No, but things like this always take time. It’s the most frustrating thing about the job. ”
Paloma nods, having somewhat of an understanding, “ Then I’ll get outta y’alls hair. Leave the solvin’ the mystery and savin’ the day to the pros. ” Her nose crinkles as she lets out a soft laugh in attempts to lighten the mood.
He gives her a smile that doesn’t quite reach his eyes and she feels that disappointment from earlier fizzle away at the sight, leaving her momentarily breathless. Javier's allure is undeniable, his rugged handsomeness coupled with an air of competence that captivates her completely. In that moment, she senses something more than mere physical attraction. It's as if small, fleeting moments like these are chipping away at the salacious layers of their connection, revealing something deeper and more profound beneath.
“ I’ll see you soon, yeah? Got those parts for dear Darla comin’ in any day now. You’ll be cruisin’ around town in no time. ” He winks at her and she giggles softly, blood pooling at her cheeks in a deep blush that he notices immediately and it makes his heart swell.
“ I’m lookin’ forward to it. ” Paloma replies, a bit more shyly than she’d like but that’s just what happens when you’re affected by Javier Peña’s irresistible charm.
They hold each other's gaze for a few fleeting seconds, Paloma losing herself in the depths of his warm brown eyes, while Javier savors every precious moment of her undivided attention. Their silent exchange is interrupted as Romeo emerges from his office, oblivious to yet another fleeting moment shared between his daughter and the deputy sheriff, lost in their own world of unspoken emotions.
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She is well aware of the copious amount of time she’s been putting in to her performance for the fair, spending all her free time at the bar with the band rehearsing or in her room piecing together her outfit.
This is her moment to showcase her mastery of her craft, and she seizes it with unwavering determination. To an outsider, the prospect of performing at a mediocre state fair, hours away from home, might seem insignificant. But to her, it's everything. Every chord struck, every lyric sung carries the weight of her passion and dedication. This performance isn't just about the venue; it's about pouring her heart and soul into the music, ensuring that every note resonates with sincerity and purpose.
At first, her father had been really excited for her… but as the days dragged by and tensions with the missing person case increased, he began to grow more cynical about it. With the way things were going, he wouldn’t be able to accompany her and that’s when all the unnecessary comments began. Romeo began to bring up the crime rate in Dallas, hypotheticals of what would happen if she were to get stuck on the side of the road on her way there, even insinuating that her band (which consisted of four members from their church) wouldn’t be as reliable as she knows them to be.
It pissed her off every time he opened his mouth to talk on the matter. At first she just ignored him or said something neutral to appease him, but now that the date was slowly approaching, she found it difficult to keep her rebuttals to herself. How many times was she going to have to remind him that she was a grown up? For some reason, he thinks she’s still a meek sixteen year old girl that needs his protection.
This is what led to the current argument. Him reluctant to let her go and Paloma insistent on going with or without his ‘permission’. Before it has the chance to get out of hand, there’s a knock at the front door and she uses it as an excuse to end the conversation.
Sighing heavily, she opens the wooden door to find Javier on the other side and immediately her frown disappears and she smiles sweetly up at him.
Amidst her intense preparation for the forthcoming performance and his deep engagement at the station, their encounters have become infrequent, a departure from their usual routine. Yet, despite the scarcity of interaction, their bodies seem attuned to each other's presence, responding instinctively to the silent symphony of their unspoken connection. Each glance exchanged, every fleeting touch carries a weight of familiarity and longing, painting a silent portrait of their unspoken desires.
“ Hey cowboy, whatcha doin’ here? ” She crosses her arms against her chest, the screen door still separating the two of them.
“ I told you I’d have the parts in any day now. ” It’s then that she sees a cardboard box in his possession and realization dawns on her.
“ Oh my god–– no way! Thank fuckin’–– god you’re such a saint. ” Javier chuckles at her words which has her feeling fucking giddy as she opens the screen door and steps aside to let him in.
“ M’not a saint, princesa , but your kind words are appreciated. ” They walk side by side, her shoulder softly brushing against his arm, to the kitchen where her father is.
“ Daddy, Javier’s here to finish workin’ on sweet ‘ol Darla. ” There’s a tinge of bitterness lacing her words as she addresses her father, their previous argument still fresh on her mind but she would rather throw herself off a bridge than finish said conversation in front of their company.
The two men greet each other, making small talk as Romeo thanks Javier for all he’s doing for both the town and the help he’s been extending to his daughter. Paloma boredly leans against the doorframe, waiting for them to wrap up their conversation and Javi can feel her impatience.
When they finally breakaway, It’s just him and Paloma in the shed, Romeo stuck inside taking an important call. Instead of perching herself on the chair like last time, she’s leaned over the hood of the car with him, close enough to be able to feel the heat radiating from her body.
“ I didn’t interrupt something earlier, did I? ” Javier asks, picking up on the tension between her and her dad in the kitchen just then.
Paloma doesn’t reply right away, eyes trained on his working hands within the engine.
“ You did but it was a good thing. We were havin’ a small argument that was about to turn into a real big fight. He’s being so anal about not lettin’ be go up to Dallas for the fair. He doesn’t seem to understand that I’m goin’ regardless. ” She scoffs with a shake of her head, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear.
“ He just worries about you… doesn’t necessarily go about it in the best way but he just wants to make sure you’re safe. ” Picks his words as carefully as he can, gaze flickering to her face briefly before returning to the task at hand.
“ I know, he’s just so stubborn about it. ”
“ Sounds like someone I know. ”
She lets out a genuine laugh, the one that involuntarily brings a small smile to his face and she elbows him playfully.
“ He’ll come around. He sees how passionate you are about your music. Like you said, you’re goin’ to do it with or without him. ” Paloma doesn’t say anything, thinking his words over knowing that Javi’s right but he’s underestimating how adamant her father can be.
Finally getting the last piece screwed in tight, he stands to his full height and wipes his hands off on a rag, “ Alright, go start her up and see if she’s cooperatin’ finally. ” Javier gestures towards the driver’s seat as he slams the hood close and she excitedly leaves his side, flinging the door open and sliding in.
The engine starts with ease and the delighted cheer that comes from Paloma is more rewarding than anything he’s deserving of.
She hops out, throwing her arms around his neck in a hug that takes him back, literally, stumbling over his feet slightly but they’re kept upright as his hands naturally fall to her waist.
In this moment of exquisite closeness, their bodies meld together, igniting a fervent blaze of desire within him. The sensation of her pressed against him sends shivers of longing coursing through his veins, a primal urge that pulses with raw intensity. Her scent, an intoxicating blend of freshly bloomed flowers and ripe fruit, envelops him like a gentle summer breeze, evoking a sense of timeless enchantment he never wishes to leave. His touch against her velvety skin due to her cropped shirt ignites a symphony of sensations. The gentle curve of her back beneath his fingertips, the softness of her curves, beckon him into a world of unspoken longing and endless passion. Javier savors the electric thrill of her response, the subtle shivers that ripple across her skin in response to his touch. A satisfied smirk graces his lips.
“ Thank you so much, Javi. You have no idea how happy you’ve just made me. ” Paloma pulls away first, but not completely, and the position they’re left in is much more intimate than it should be.
His breath fans over her face, which is just inches apart, if he really wanted to; he could lean in and press his lips against hers…
And he really, really wants to but with Romeo just around the corner–– he won’t risk getting caught. No matter how enticing and easy it’d be to give in.
“ Javi? What happened to officer or cowboy? ” He teases her, pinching at her hips and she pushes at his chest, finally breaking their embrace.
“ Right, forgive me for wantin’ to have a moment of authenticity. ” Paloma playfully rolls her eyes, “ Thank you so much, officer . You have no idea how… ” She trails off suddenly and his brow cocks inquisitively.
“ You have no idea how satisfied you’ve left me. ”
The sultriness in her voice, gleam in her eyes and those long lashes batting up at him all innocently does nothing but fuel his craving for her.
“ If this is all it took to leave you satisfied, hermosa , then you’re in worse shape than I thought. ”
She bites down on her lower lip, “ Thank god I have you here to help me out, hmm? ”
And for a split second it feels like something might happen but ultimately it doesn’t.
“ Just doin’ what I can, cariño . You get any more car problems just call me and not that mecánico de mierda (shitty mechanic). ”
As she leans forward to retrieve the keys from the ignition, he finds himself entranced by the graceful arc of her back, a delicate curve that seems to invite his gaze to follow its every contour. The gentle slope of her spine draws his eyes downward, tracing a path along the subtle rise and fall of her silhouette. Clad in low-rise jeans, her form is sculpted with an exquisite precision, each curve accentuated by the snug embrace of denim. From the gentle swell of her hips to the elegant taper of her waist, she exudes a natural allure that captivates him completely. In the soft glow of the car's interior, she appears as a vision of timeless beauty, her every movement imbued with a subtle grace that leaves him spellbound. And as he watches her, his heart swells with an unspoken longing, drawn irresistibly to the captivating essence of her presence.
“ Well… I can’t call you if I don’t have your personal number… what if I have an emergency and you’re not at the station? ” Paloma can feel his gaze on her and it makes her feel satisfied that she’s able to capture his attention so easily, closing the car door with her hip and leaning against it.
“ That would just be a downright wretched thing. ” As his hand instinctively reaches for the memo book he habitually carries, a silent curse echoes in his mind upon realizing its absence. Yet, a solitary pen remains within his grasp, a slender tool poised for action. With a swift and decisive motion, Javier closes the distance between them, a subtle shift in proximity that doesn't escape her notice. In that fleeting moment, a sharp intake of breath betrays her surprise, a subtle acknowledgment of his unexpected approach.
“ Don’t have paper on me, but… ” Taking her hand gently in his, he turns it and begins to write his home phone number on her palm.
Paloma's heart quickens its pace as Javier's hand envelops hers, his touch a juxtaposition of rough and gentle against her soft skin. In that fleeting contact, she becomes acutely aware of the stark size difference between their hands, his encompassing hers entirely. A shiver dances down her spine at the sensation, igniting a primal response deep within her. With a soft exhale, she finds herself unconsciously pressing her thighs together, a physical manifestation of the stirring desire unfurling within her. The simple act of hand-holding, once mundane, now electrifies her senses, leaving her yearning for more of his touch.
The only thing she can think of is how good his large, thick fingers would feel pressed against her clit while he pleasures her.
Focus, Paloma, you’re practically drooling.
“ Might wanna write that down somewhere. The sweat’s gonna just mess it all up. ” Javier messes with her, letting go of her hand and stuffing the pen into the front pocket of his shirt. The thin layer of sweat clearly in response to his gesture.
Her eyes widen at the comment and it has her tripping over her words, “ Y-Yeah I’ll, uh, make sure not to lose this. Like I said, it’d be a bummer if I couldn’t get ahold of you in a time of need. ”
Her desire simmers beneath the surface, a silent melody of longing that dances in her gaze. Each stolen glance reveals the allure of his sun-kissed skin, teasing her senses with the promise of warmth and intimacy. The sight of his exposed collar, bathed in the soft glow of ambient light, ignites a fierce yearning within her. Her fingers itch to trace the contours of his chest, to explore the hidden depths beneath the fabric. With every breath, she fights the urge to succumb to temptation, her resolve tested by the magnetic pull of his presence.
He smirks, absolutely loving to see his affect on her. It’s only fair, seeing as she’s always the one to be riling him up. “ Alright cariño , I better get outta here before we get ourselves into trouble. ”
The fragile awareness of their shared moment shatters the haze of desire enveloping her, grounding her back to reality. With a subtle nod, she acknowledges the unspoken understanding between them, her heart pulsing with a mixture of longing and uncertainty. As he starts to withdraw, she feels a pang of reluctance, but the need to maintain composure propels her forward. " Of course, " she replies softly, her voice carrying a hint of wistfulness. With practiced grace, she gestures towards the exit, concealing the flutter of anticipation in her chest. Her hand remains steady, resisting the urge to wipe away the lingering warmth of his touch.
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All hands are on deck to find Jessica Valdez, the missing girl from Fayette.
Back in Colombia, everyone was too afraid to speak up when something was amiss in fear of having their lives taken by the vicious cartels that ran the streets. Those who did have the bravery to come forward with information only did so in hopes of getting support and protection from a government that wasn’t even theirs.
Among the multitude of warning signs observed by Javier, this particular one remained conspicuous yet unacknowledged, overshadowed by the grand scheme of dismantling the kingpins. Consequently, when adversity struck, the flow of valuable intelligence was delayed, impeding the acquisition of pertinent information. This rationale justified Javier's visits to the brothels, veiled under the pretext of proactive investigation aimed at uncovering critical data essential for combatting the narcos.
The fucking was just a pleasurable addition.
In small communities stateside, though, that’s all people do. Talk. So, when Javier goes out to do some canvassing of his own; he isn’t all surprised by how willingly people are to spill the secrets of their neighbors. By the end of the day, he damn near knows about all the affairs in town, who likes to steal money from who, the mayor’s illegitimate child, and decade long family feuds.
Exactly what he expected to find in small Texan towns.
Like he had told Romeo in the beginning, there’s always some truth to a rumor. As he’s collecting information about Seminary and the communities that surround it; he comes to find out about a trio of troublemakers that come from one of the towns where one of the earliest victims had been found and their peculiar interest in all things occult.
This piqued his interest and upon further investigation; he quickly found the files for August Dixon, Sloane McCarthy and Gabriel Torres.
At once, Sloane caught his attention, although her mugshot portrayed her with a youthful demeanor. The man from Nina's funeral, Gabriel, also stood out in his memory. He recalls Sloane mentioning him by name that day he was at the Leighton home, too. However, the third male remained unfamiliar, his appearance suggesting a rebellious disposition, evident from his file and accompanying photograph.
The trio had been in and out of jail all their adolescence for petty crimes like stealing, vandalism, public intoxication, fighting and other nonsense. Nothing severe. They were just troublemakers and that is not odd to find in rural areas. Kids get bored and do stupid shit.
Javier would know better than anyone, he did similar things at their age.
He’s spread out on his couch, whiskey in one hand and file in the other. He is deep in concentration, reading over different police reports and trying to find out where the occult aspect of it comes into play when the phone begins to ring and he lets out a grunt.
Reaching over to grab the receiver, he tucks it between his shoulder and ear as he answers.
“ Peña. ”
“ Hey cowboy. ”
Her voice has him sitting up straight, discarding the folder in his hand on the coffee table, now fully attentive. It’s actually kind of pathetic how fast his demeanor changes when it comes to Paloma.
“ Hola hermosa , a little late to be callin’, yeah? You should be getting your beauty sleep for the big day tomorrow. ” He hadn’t forgotten about her performance at the fair, making note of the date the second she’d told him about it.
“ I should be but I’ve got nerves like you wouldn’t believe. ” She pauses and he can hear her thinking, “ Daddy and I just had a fight… well I dunno even know if you’d call it that. It ended with him sayin’ he didn’t give a damn if I went or not… all that fussin’ just so he could say he didn’t care in the end. If I’m actually that insufferable I’m beggin’ you to put me out of my misery. ” He chuckles at that and he can imagine her smiling at his reaction.
“ Don’t be nervous, corazón . You’re goin’ to do great. You already knock it outta the park at The Whiskey Fox every weekend. This ain’t no different. ” It is different and he knows it, but he also knows her and how she tends to overthink to the point of anxiety. “ You ridin’ up there all alone? ” Not a fan of the idea but he wouldn’t disclose this to her, now when he knows how much it ticks her off.
“ I was gonna hitch a ride with the band, then I remembered I have a car now so I was goin’ to do that but… ”
“ But? ”
“ I want you to come with me… if you can. ”
The request surprises him, so much so that it prompts him to take a larger drink of his whiskey.
“ I didn’t scare you off, did I? ” She giggles nervously at his prolonged silence.
“ No ‘course not. Just figured you’d enjoyed your newfound freedom of being on the road alone. ”
“ As fun as that sounds, I think it’d ease my daddy’s nerves knowin’ his glorified babysitter was taggin’ along… ” Javier feels like there’s more to it than that, especially since she’s always complaining about being under father’s thumb then she goes on to continue and pacify him. Before he can ask her about it she continues,
“ And I’ve never traveled outside of Seminary… well not since I was a little girl. Didn’t really get out much after mom… Just haven’t been outta town in a long, long time. ” He can sense her coyness at the admission and it does nothing but persuade him into joining her.
Javi should think it over more, the logistics of him being hours away with Paloma, knowing how ambiguous things are between them. However, he swiftly dismisses his apprehensions, feeling somewhat foolish for blowing what might be a trivial matter out of proportion.
Especially when she seems so nervous to ask for his company.
Finishing off his drink, Javier leans in deeper to the comfort of his couch and he can hear her soft breaths on the other end of the line, anticipating his response.
“ Alright, cariño just tell me what time you need me to be there and I’ll be there. ”
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