#and the rest of him lou is just *chef's kiss*

[ocular-intercourse]

positively obsessed with nydas' gestures

#and the rest of him lou is just *chef's kiss* #critical role #exandria unlimited: calamity #nydas okiro #exu: c #draws

[nervoussagittarius]

a vlog that’s pretty much just y/n’s day in the life

chris sturniolo x reader

summary: your boyfriend and his brothers film a day of their life, including their time with you. request

warning: fluffy, slightly suggestive (if you look hard enough), language

“wake up sleep heads,” nick said focusing the camera on yours and chris’s sleeping frames. “we’re filming our lives today and you guys need to get up.”

a slight groan could be heard from your boyfriend, but you made no efforts to acknowledge it. you were to focused on the deep sleep you were attempting to fall back into. “what nick?” chris’s voice had sleep prominent in it. his words made you more alert than before.

you picked your head up slightly but quickly threw it back down, loudly sighing at the light nick pointed at the two of you. you head came in contact with chris’s arm, slightly scaring him. “nick what the fuck are you doing kid. can’t you see she’s trying to sleep.” chris was less concerned about his own comfort then yours. he turned his body into you, blocking you from the light.

“can you two just get up and start yapping so this video is entertaining?”

“yea nick, just get the fuck out”

with nick leaving the room, chris started getting out of bed as well. becoming more coherent, you looked over at chris as he was picking both of your guys clothes off the floor from last night. “chris, get back in bed with me” you said to him giving him a slight smirk. he smiled at you before launching himself back in the bed.

the boys had a couple meetings that morning, so they picked up the camera again as you all were shopping for ingredients for dinner. since you volunteered to make them food it was the boys job to figure out everything you needed.

nick walked behind you, chris, and matt so he could film what the three of you were doing. matt pushed the cart as chris kept his death grip on your hand, pulling you with him and pointing out every interesting thing he saw. “look at the flowers, baby. do you want flowers? i’m gonna buy you flowers. what kind do you want?” chris dropped your hand walking away from you as he looked intently at the flowers trying to choose the prettiest ones. “you don’t need to buy me flowers” you had to raise your voice a little so he could hear you, but in response all you got was a little hand wave brushing your comment off.

nick turned the camera on you. “your boyfriend is like a child. he doesn’t listen.” you gave his a shrug and a laugh. “i think i have to have a talk with mary lou to see what went wrong with that one” you said pointing at chris, who was now walking back over to you three with two different bouquets of flowers.

“you referring to your amazing boyfriend, who’s buying you flowers might i add, as ‘that one’ is crazy.” chris found his place at your side. he handed you the flowers and pulled a piece of lint off of the fresh love hoodie of his that you were wearing. “i don’t know what you’re talking about, honey. also, i said you didn’t have to buy me flowers.” “exactly that why i’m buying you two.” he said kissing your forehead nodding in matt’s direction for you to start walking.

poor matt had been done most of the grocery shopping himself. none of you were paying enough attention to him, so when you got home to make dinner the ingredients were definitely a suprise. luckily you ended up with chicken and pasta so the rest came easily.

chris came up to you with the camera as you were cooking. “what are you making chef?” before you even got the chance to open your mouth and respond another comment was being made by chris. “vlog, look at how pretty my girlfriend is. she’s actually perfection” he put the camera on the counter so it was facing both of you. he grabbed your hand and pulled you away from the stove so you were in frame. “give them a spin ma. wearing my brand and everything”

you faked annoyance as you spun beside chris. not being able to keep a straight face for long you broke into laughter. when you returned to facing him he pulled you into a hug. he released your shoulders so he could hold your face him his hands. with your arms still around his waist, you leaned up to give him a small kiss.

matt came over to you guys, looked at you in disgust, and grabbed the camera off the counter. “sorry for you had to see that. chef matt is taking over because our original chef has become distracted.” matt tried to take your spot at the stove, but you weren’t going to allow it. “matt do not touch that you’re going to ruin it.” the bickering went on between you two for a while before realizing you could just work together.

that night, after eating and cleaning up the dishes, top golf was suggested by none other then chris sturniolo. his love for the activity was one that you’d never understand, but you went nonetheless.

a few rounds went by before you inevitably realized you’d never win against those three so you took over vlogging for them instead. the camera pointed at nick as he took his swing. “ohhh well that was definitely something.” you said from behind the camera. nick was far enough away that he couldn’t hear your comment, but you’d definitely get shit for it while he edited. the two boys to you left of a kick out of it though.

matt and chris broke out into laughter catching the attention of nick. “what are you two fuckers laughing about? try to do better.” he said, giving them attitude. you held back your laugh as nick sat to the right of you.

for entertainment purposes (and also to annoy him) you started narrating everything matt did. “and… matt sturniolo picks up his golf club. he waves it in front of the sensor. he gets his golf ball. he gets ready to hit. is it going to be good ladies, gentleman, and nonbinaries? we’ll see. and he hits, and it’s…… not as good as nicks shot.” matt side eyes you as chris starts laughing uncontrollably. he falls into your side sending you and the camera to the right into nick.

nick takes the camera from you since your posture has been infiltrated by chris’s body. chris is still laughing when matt gets back to the seats, so like any brother would, matt slaps him upside the head. chris groans as he pokes your shoulder. you’re conversation with nick gets cut off when you look over at him. “matt hit me” chris says with a childish tone. “okay and what do you want me to do about it babe? i’m not your mother. hit him back. i don’t fucking know” you say with a laugh.

the game quickly comes to an end with matt coming out in first place. the four of you decide to call it a night. and start walking back to the van.

when you guys finally got to the car nick started to outrow the video. “alright guys that’s it for this weeks vlog thank you so much for watching” he turned the camera towards the front of the car as you leaned over chris’s shoulder.

“chris can you please play 34+35 remix for nick and i.”

“no y/n” “absolutely not”

and with that the video concluded.

an: i didn’t have much motivation to write the past couple of days but i hope y’all enjoy this 🤍

#nick sturniolo #matt sturniolo x reader #chris sturniolo #chris sturniolo x reader #chris sturniolo smut #matt sturniolo fluff #matt sturniolo smut #sturniolo fanfic #matt sturniolo imagine #matt x reader #matt sturniolo

[swiftviolets]

top 23 screenshots of 2023 <3

i was tagged by @applesaucesims a while ago to share my top 23 screenshots of 2023 and it was actually pretty hard to pick just 23!!!! i've seen a lot of people do them by month but because i made this blog in like may i'm just post them all as one :) some are raw some are edited its a real mixed bag i've seen a lot tagged in this already but if you haven't done this yet consider yourself tagged <3!!!

i thought she just looked cool here :(

2. i like the vibe of it and again i just thought she looked cool here lol. i wanna remake this so bad

3. i really like the angle i got w this, like its from elvis' pov. he wants attention but neither are giving it him

4. this was initially from when i started to make pictures to go around lori's apartment but never got around to finishing them. its a little lori and her oldest brother before he goes off to fight in korea :)

5. elvis was not having being held!!!

6. this was when i first started messing around with tool and i just love this shot a lot

7. one of my faves of all time!!!! i cant wait to add more context to this as i get deeper into four to one

8. i was trying so hard to get that feel of an up and coming band and their first album. i looked at a lot of old 60s garage band album covers and some were so raw like literally just a bunch of guys posing somewhere and thats what i attempted to duplicate with this :)

9. i could've honestly included the whole post this screen was from but out of all of them this was my favourite. idk i just like its the first little glimpse you get of new orleans before the street scenes. i was trying to set the mood a little lol

10. literally not a thought inside his little orange head <3

11. i used another angle of this pose for the initial post its from but idk i also liked this one a lot too i think lou's awkwardness makes it for me lol

12. i really like how andy looks back to lori as she was leaving. he looks so helpless and ideally he'd have gone after her but a) he didn't want to deal with her anger and b) he was really not in the mood to receive any shit from the rest of the group, and out of the 2 he's not ready to face lori's wrath!!!! i also like the couple on the left bc they could legit be talking about anything

13. the way they're looking here.... ough. in the story post they take a few moments to watch lori pass before initially approaching her. the look they give her is mixed with the displeasure of spending their friday night tailing their boss' 'girlfriend' and just your typical male gaze of watching girls go by

14. i think i peaked with this shot. she was literally just getting into a car what an absolute icon

15. & 16. the way she looks at him and the way he looks at her...... chefs kiss. she's annoyed and he can tell but that doesn't stop him with appreciating how she looks

17. its my blog header image for a reason <3

18. i love this little moment of intimacy between them. their relationship can feel more like an acquaintanceship at times, especially with how marco speaks to lori and how he treats her. i like in this shot it captures a rare moment in their relationship where lori is genuinely sweet and he's soaking it all in. also i really like both their side profiles hehe

19. i was starting to take screens for a post i was going to make then i just forgot about it but i really like this and how it's a little sneak peak on what to expect later on in four to one :)

20. i just love how the preset i used made this screen look tbh

21. just a cute lil gameplay moment no poses or anything just love between a girl and her cat <3

22. & 23. taken from lori's magazine spread i just really like how candid they look both look

#thank you soooooo much for the tag it was fun!!!! #tag game

[athousandis]

ok ok ok let’s

so first: LOU! your performance was chef’s kiss like oh my god you put tommy into the 911 hall of fame. like imagine meeting these two guys who are best friends and then realizing you want to be friends with them so you start hanging out with one of them and the other one starts acting slightly odd about it but you don’t worry too much until someone actually gets hurts and so you figure out what’s going on so you go clear the air and explain that you missed some of the people in your life and wanted what they had and the other guy makes you feel like you are a part of it even after all the years and then the situation starts turning a little more flirty but you though that the two guys had a thing or something but then this other guy tells you that he was trying to get you to notice him and you think that maybe this could be going a different way and so you test your theory out a little and it seems to work and so you feel good and the other guy is over there have a completely new life-changing experience but you have to go to work so you make plans to see him again and it’s looking up expect yeah you really just were the reason someone had a huge realization about themselves and just left because you know that this is the kind of thing he needs to go through himself but you’re still so kind about it and reassuring because he needs it and you know what it’s like

second: the way the last scene played out was so intelligent, it starts with tommy thinking that he should do this in person so nothing is misunderstood and probably the knowledge that buck is best reassured in person. and he essentially tells buck that him being in their lives can be a good thing because they all have different aspects that make them good friends but he also tells buck that he was jealous about a family of kind and accepting people that he wasn’t able to have when he was at the 118. but like we know that despite not keeping in touch as much, tommy still had that 118 dog in him and dropped everything to help. and then buck goes through a realization that his jealousy was coming from a place he was unfamiliar with like we literally get to see him go through that in the scene. and tommy gets a little more confident about the situation because buck is starting to use his flirty voice and body language and so tommy figures he should take a chance. and so we see the true shock that buck experiences with kissing a man for the first time, like this is something he never thought about but like wow that just changed his life. and now buck is clouded with the emotion and joy of discovering a piece of himself. and tommy makes sure he didn’t cross a boundary (mwah beautiful) and he sees that it’s quite the opposite, he found something for buck that buck didn’t even know he was looking for. and then tommy asks buck out because he wants to explore where this can go, hopeful that he can at least have a good time with buck but he leaves because he knows it has to go slow because it’s all so new. and buck is going through it and probably spends the rest of the night going over and over everything in his mind. and tommy makes sure to bring it back to eddie and that buck needs to remedy the situation because nothing can start if eddie and buck are not eddie and buck.

third: on the complete one-in-a-million chance that oliver sees this, thank you. truly it has been so wonderful to see these last 24 hours unfold. thank you for understanding how much your character means to so many people, how the representation that buck brings is a way for people to see themselves on screen in a positive light. thank you for caring enough about telling a queer story but just telling a good story. you care so much about buck and we can see that in your performance. i am so happy for you and the rest of the 911 family and the fans. we have been trying to get here for a long time, and here we are. and it feels better than i could ever imagine. i can’t wait to see you continue to tell buck’s story <3

finally: to 911blr, wow what a night. i started watching 911 about two years ago but little did i know it would have such a big impact on my life. this show that i watched on a whim and now means so much to so many people, there is such a great community here. and though i just watch the show and spend many hours a day dissecting it all in my head, i would feel so different if it wasn’t for the community here. seeing everyone get so excited and enthralled over this show has made me feel less alone. to you all, who love and root for these characters and pairing and take an already wonderful show and make it better with your stories and analysis. the show would not be what it is or where it is without you.

i am really emotional about all of this and i still cannot believe this has actually happened. i am so excited for what the future has in store for these blorbos :)

#HAPPY CANON BISEXUAL EVAN BUCKLEY!!!! #i love you 911 #weewoo show #911 abc #evan buckley #tommy kinard #911 season 7

[utterlyhooked]

my favorite thing about the scene in the magistrate's is that, when they last parted in the ginkgo grove, he was like, when we see each other next, we'll be mere acquaintances... smh. buyi. babe.

(also fuck if zhou hejun didn't win me tf over when she chopped off that asshole's head—amazing. fav moment of tv this year)

@pardonthelitany Yes, amazing!!! Even when He Zhaojun told him, go on, be a ghost and see my father and brothers kill you again! The chopping off his head was *chefs kiss*! Even though the rational part of me was saying - it's not possible for her to get it done in one clean swoop. She doesn't have the strength in her arms to do so even if the blade is as sharp as it can possibly be. That’s why highly skilled executioners were hired for decapitation of the nobility. An unskilled one could take several swings before the head is cut off completely. But for cinematic purposes... *slow claps*

I think in the ginko grove, he was pretty much resigned that she will be someone elses wife. He was going to love and protect her for the rest of his life, just from afar... sad... but in the magistrates even though he said to Shaoshang that no matter what she decides, it will be correct....  he more or less knew that the wedding was not going to happen just as he said to He Zaojun while sheilding Shaoshang - "Lady Ancheng need not scare Miss Cheng like this. The Cheng and Lou families have already planned to withdraw from the marriage."

I also think that he just has this need... an impulse to just protect her no matter what. He can’t help it. An instinctive reaction to sheild and protect.

What I love about this scene is how he enveloped her and the reassurance of “I’m here.” A protective gesture, like a wall, a fortress that could withstand fire and flood for centuries! But the thing that really, really gets me and I can’t bloody get over it.... is the way he stares at her..... fecken hell that stare!!!!!!!

#月升沧海 #星汉灿烂 #Love Like The Galaxy #LLTG #Wu Lei #Leo Wu #Ling Buyi #General Ling #Shiyilang #Zhao Lusi #Cheng Shaoshang #He Zhaojun #decapitating Prince Xiao #wasn't obsessed before but I am now #I need to get over this drama #FFS I need to find something so I can get over this #I need sleep! #myedit

[miraakulous-cloud-district]

5 songs tag! 🎼🎵🎻🪕🥁🪘

My dear @bougainvillea-and-saltwater tagged me to list 5 songs that fit with my fic, 'Wherever you go, there you are' so here it is!

1. "Follow you" by Imagine Dragons. This is the first song that came to mind because it fits so well with the friendship and found family theme of the fic. This is the fellowships anthem more or less, because it really shows how close they are and how they'd always be by Ravonna's side! The chorus is especially fitting here: "I will follow you way down wherever you may go/ I'll follow you way down to your deepest low/ I'll always be around wherever life takes you"

2. "Soap" by the Oh Hellos! I see this as *the* song for Ravonna and Miraak. The lyrics are absolutely perfect for them, and it encapsulates their relationship extremely well. I love the line: "I think that you're worth keeping around/ I think you're worth holding onto" -> this is very fitting especially from Ravvy's point of view! :D

3. "Can you feel the love tonight" by Elton John VERY SAPPY, I KNOW, but I can see it as a Miraak and Ravonna song! I thing she relates to the "And can you feel the love tonight?/ It is where we are/ It's enough for this wide-eyed wanderer/ That we got this far/ And can you feel the love tonight/ How it's laid to rest?/ It's enough to make kings and vagabonds/ Believe the very best" because at first she definitely considers herself to be the vagabond, a wanderer who doesn't have a place to call home while Miraak is, or better, was the king, as the leader of the Dragon Cult. He also makes her feel like a good person. He's her chance to redeem herself and become better and let go of the vengeful person she once was AND FORGIVE, so really, he brings her hope, he makes her believe the very best ;) AT the same time, Miraak sees Ravonna not killing him as his second chance at life. He gets to live again because of her, and he is very grateful for that.

4. "Dance Macabre" by Ghost. I'm twisting the lyrics a bit on this one, or ignoring them a bit. But the song itself really encapsulates the "dancing our way through the apocalypse" vibe that Ravonna and her fellowship have, I can really see them all dancing and having fun to this song. They will take all the chances they can get to have as much fun as possible, because they don't know when it's going to be the last time they do.

5. And last but certainly not least, a song that I associate with my version of Miraak: "Iris" by The Goo Goo Dolls! It's so fitting that it actually hurts my heart! Just these lyrics are perfect. Purely him!

"And I don't want the world to see me/ 'Cause I don't think that they'd understand/ When everything's made to be broken/ I just want you to know who I am" BECAUSE HE DOES WANT HER TO KNOW WHO HE IS. SHE SAW MIRAAK BUT THAT WASN'T HIM. HE WANTS HER TO KNOW HIM FOR REAL, THE MAN BEFORE THE DRAGON CULT. FENRIK. BECAUSE MAYBE IF SHE DID, SHE'D LOVE HIM AND AAAAH I'M GOING TO STOP BECAUSE I'M ALREADY YELLING.

Honorable mentions, because fuck it:

"Drink" by Alestorm for the "we are here to drink your beer" lyric.

"Perfect Day" by Lou Reed for the "You made me forget myself/ I thought I was someone else/ Someone good" from Ravvy's pov is just *chef's kiss*

And "Fish in the sea" because no playlist of my fic would be complete without at least one sea shanty! And it's in my fic after something really important happens 👀 also, storm motifs, important stuff happens during a storm 👀 Ravonna is kind of associated and compared to a storm 👀

Tagging @kiir-do-faal-rahhe @thelavenderelf @sheirukitriesfandom only if you want to, of course.

#THIS WAS SO FUN THANK YOU 💖💖 #tag game

[thinking-bubbles]

Review: Fox Demon Cultivation Novel

Just completed this novel and wanted to record my honest opinion about it. Disclaimer: I apologise if my review comes off as scathing. I am by no means some super critical reader and I read with my brain mostly switched off so I can’t do intricate analyses of characterisation or themes like some of the prolific reviewers/writers here but I could offer a snapshot of this novel and give interested folks a glimpse into how it may fare for an ordinary and casual reader like me.

This is a pretty good read that's not too long.

[SPOILERS AHEAD]

✨ What's great about it ✨

Main CP and side CP(s) are cute af

ML is not annoying at all. He's a little cold at the start but becomes super sweet.

The r/s development is really *chef's kiss* 😌✨ I especially loved seeing how Song Ci realised how much he loves Rong Bai and once he acknowledged and accepted that fact, he just went all out LOL

However, sad to say, the novel did have many flaws.

😞 What I was disappointed about 😞

Most female characters were demonised and made into villains: Qingyuan, Situ Zhoulan, Madam Liang, Tu Shan Lian, Madam Feng, that girl Song Ci was engaged to... maybe a few more whom I don't remember at the moment. Rong Bai's mom was the only one who was spared, but even she was revealed to have made concessions to the Tu Shan family that possibly were at Rong Bai's expense.

Plot development was lacking. The author did not flesh out some key points. This would not have required delving deep into the lore/world-building but I think it would've been nice to fill some crucial gaps: think Yan Song, Lou Muge, Ning Shaosi, Yan Bei, Wen Chan and even Rong Bai himself. What's Lou Muge's role in all of this conflict? Where do Yan Bei and Wen Chan stand in the entire story? Why were these two characters intertwined in Song Ci's life? What was Yan Song's goal in offering Song Ci the demonic fruit? What exactly happened in those years after Rong Bai lost Song Ci? How did he come to commit the massacre that allowed him to rise to the top as Demon King? There were simply too many loose ends that the author did not tie up even by the end of the novel.

Villains were mostly one-dimensional—not all of them got equal treatment. A few of them had a whole arc behind them, the rest showed up, died and disappeared or did not have their motives explained.

Nice ensemble of side characters, but they were underdeveloped. This point links to the one above on plot.

The time-space reversal array was a convenient plot device that ended up creating a 'loop'. In FDCM, Song Ci went back to 'save' Rong Bai by altering the course of history, but this does not create an alternate timeline. Instead, we learn that the very reason why Rong Bai left the clan behind and scattered his soul was because of Song Ci's existence during that period of time. Maybe other readers are satisfied with the way time travel was used in this novel, but I found myself very unconvinced. BUT, I must say that that particular arc was exceptionally sweet! I had a blast seeing Song Ci enjoying his life as Rong Bai's new 'demon pet' and his determination to level up in spite of his fear of death.

Overall, this novel started off strong, but started showing its shortcomings towards the latter half. I understand that this book is part of a wider universe and there seems to be a prequel/sequel to it, but I feel that it was a waste the author did not manage to expand on pivotal parts of the novel.

Nonetheless, I did have some arcs I really enjoyed: special shout-out to the Mo Yao Sect arc. I adore Fu Chi x Dai Yanxing and their entire backstory; the development and bittersweet ending just takes the cake. What to do, I just love my romance with some angst LMAO

I would recommend this to those who don't mind the recurring issues with plot and characters. In spite of all its flaws, I enjoyed reading this novel. If you want a cute and sweet read, pick this up! I'm sure you'll love all the CPs!!! 💗

#fox demon cultivation manual #狐妖修炼指南 #fdcm #danmei #reviews

[sunmoonandeddie]

and he kissed me right here

pairing: modern!bucky barnes x reader

word count: 6,100

summary: I've always been sure that all I ever wanted was a glamorous life.

warnings: Cuss words, mentions of the Afghanistan war (Bucky is a veteran), angst, happy ending, cheesy romantic confessions, age gap

a/n:  This is based on the song 'Stars and the Moon' from Songs for a New World! It's the first one shot in my musical series! This is written in first perspective, but there is no physical description or use of a name in this!

Twenty-Two

I sighed as I tossed a few more dirty plates into the dish window, wiping my brow. After a shitty dinner rush and an even shittier rush around two in the morning consisting only of drunk ass college kids looking for some sort of carb to suck up all the alcohol in their systems, I was ready to go the fuck home.

“Sweetheart, you head on home now,” the head chef insisted as he watched my head nod slightly as I tried my best to fight off sleep. “Ain’t nobody comin’ in before Melissa gets here. No point in you staying on your feet any longer.”

Louis was a godsend. At sixty-seven years old, you’d think he would rather be anywhere but a diner at almost four in the morning.

“Nah,” he had said when I’d asked him a few months after I’d first started. “My Ginny died a few years back, and since she’s been gone, I don’t really have the stomach to sit around that house all alone.” He had laughed, but there’d been a deep sorrow that had come over his deep brown eyes. “Kids are worried, but… Sleeping the day away is better than laying up at night staring at her side of the bed…”

“You sure, Lou?” I asked even as I headed for the back room where all the employees clocked in and kept their possessions in their own little cubbies. I did my checkout in view of the security camera, just like always. I didn’t want anyone to be able to say I stole anything.

Everyone who knew me knew that I wouldn’t, but I’d worked at two many places where the girls tried backstabbing each other and sabotaging everyone else to get them fired.

Though people were a lot nicer in Louisiana than any of the other places I’d lived.

Louis chuckled as he set a to-go box in the window, nodding towards it. “Mmhm. Long as Buck is getting you home safe.”

I gave him a joking eye roll as I took the to-go box gratefully, grinning at my name written in all caps with green Sharpie on top. “You know you don’t have to make me dinner every night.”

“Yes, I do,” he said, shooting me a look. “How else do I know you’re getting enough food in you, huh?” He pointed his rag at me. “Now you go ask him to get you home. Tell him I said he can clock out, and that he’s supposed to text me when he sees you safe inside. You better not say you’re gonna ask him again just to walk yourself home.” The old man shook his head as I headed for the back door, muttering to himself, “Damn girl thinks I’m gonna believe she’s feeding herself good enough when she’s risking her damn ass walking home alone.”

Despite the fact that I’d put off asking for Bucky Barnes’s service, I really did appreciate how fiercely Louis cared about me.

It had been a real long time since anyone had cared so much.

I hesitated at the back door of the diner, my hand resting against the cool metal.

What if he said no?

Granted, he most likely wouldn’t. But what if he said yes, and he secretly thought me some dumb little girl that couldn’t take care of herself?

What did I care if he thought that?

“I don’t care what he thinks of me,” I huffed as I straightened my shoulders, holding my chin a little higher.

“Stop talking to yourself and get going!”

I jumped in surprise, before shooting a glare in the direction of the kitchen. “Stop listening in on my private conversations!” I demanded before storming outside with new found vigor.

Only to freeze when Bucky looked up from where he was sitting on the curb, smoking a cigarette.

God, he was handsome.

“You okay, doll face?” He asked, his New York accent a sharp contrast to the southern drawls you were used to.

“Um… Y-Yeah,” I said faintly, glancing back at the door that I’d come in from. “Um… L-Louis wants me to ask you… Can you walk me home? Or give me a ride? I don’t… I don’t know if you drive…”

“I do drive.”

“O-Oh. Okay. Great.”

“But I don’t have my car on me.”

I peered at him curiously. “Oh. Um… I can just walk by myself. I don’t wanna… I don’t wanna be a nuisance…”

He stood up, tossing his cigarette to the ground and stomping it out. “Don’t be ridiculous, darlin.’ Come on. I’ll walk you.” He shoved his hands in his pockets as he began to head for the street. “Besides… It’s a real nice night.”

“Oh…,” I said in surprise at how ready he was to be of service. “Okay. But only if you’re sure.”

A faint smile graced his lips as he glanced at the ground, letting out a faint chuckle that rumbled deep in his chest. “I’m sure, darlin.’ But you gotta lead the way.”

I was surprised by the rapid pitter patter of my heart beat as we walked side by side down the street, the chorus of ‘Yellow Brick Road’ getting stuck in my head on a loop.

Bucky was an enigma that I found myself wondering about more often than not, but I always ended up talking myself out of going there. After all, he was an older man. A much older man. At least fifteen years older than my own twenty-two years, or something along those lines, not that he looked it. The man looked like some kind of rugged Greek god. Like Hades if Hades was born in the eighties. His dog tags clinked together under his shirt as we walked, his metal prosthetic glinting in the moon.

“So how did you end up in NOLA?”

It took me a moment to even realize that he was talking to me, my heart skipping a beat and my face going hot in embarrassment. “I’m sorry, what did you say?” I asked.

His bright blue eyes flickered over to look me over. “How’d you end up in New Orleans?”

“I actually don’t know,” I snorted, avoiding his eyes as I kicked at a few broken up pieces of asphalt. “I just… Picked a bus ticket and ended up in one of the Carolinas. Then I picked another bus ticket and ended up in Minnesota. And then I picked another, and another, and another, and then I actually just… ended up here.” The months I’d spent alone on those Greyhounds felt both so long ago and also like it was just yesterday. “The diner was the first place someone recommended for food that’s good but cheap, and as I was eating my mountain of cheese fries, I saw the flyer that said they were hiring. So here I am now…”

“Huh,” he said, his brows furrowed. “I didn’t take you for the type of person to run off on your own… riding buses all over the country…”

Head tilting to the side, I gave him a long look. “You didn’t? What kind of type did you peg me for?”

Bucky gave me a long look, a single brow raised as though silently telling me that I jumped to conclusions. “Just that jumping from place to place can take a lot outta someone,” he said slowly, his voice low and soothing. “Hell, if you were my girl—” He broke off as his cheeks flushed a pretty shade of pink, his long hair falling in his face.

I swore my heart had stopped inside of my chest, and I swallowed thickly around the lump in my throat. “Oh?”

He rushed to try to correct his wording. “I-I just mean, a lady should be comfortable. And if I had a g-girl like you, well… You’d never want for anything,” he stammered, stumbling over his words like a flustered school boy. “Hell, I… I’d give you the stars and the moon…”

I was shocked into silence, staring up at him like he was the sun itself. “Bucky…”

“No, no, don’t say anything. I… I know that was a lot,” he insisted quietly, unable to meet your eyes as he stared up at the shitty apartment building you called home. “Hell, you probably don’t want a gross old man hitting on you.” His metal hand, glinting in the low light of the street lamp, reached up to brush against my cheek for just a moment before it quickly dropped. “Just let me walk you home each night so I can make sure you’re safe, yeah?”

“Yeah,” I breathed out, unable to take my eyes off of him as he took a few steps back.

There’s a somewhat playful smirk on his lips as he watched me stumble up the steps, continuously glancing back at him. “Goodnight, baby doll.”

“Goodnight,” I said, barely audible before I finally headed inside.

Bucky kept his word. He walked me home every night, and honestly, there wasn’t a moment that I wasn’t thinking about what he had said, about if I was his girl.

What if I was his girl?

But… with that meant I’d have to give up the life I’d dreamed for myself. I wanted luxury, to never worry about bills or where I was gonna get my next meal or if I could afford to buy the nice work shoes or if I could only get the cheap ones that would fall apart in three months and then I’d just be right back where I started.

I wanted the life that celebrities lived. Hell, I wanted to go to parties on the same yachts the Kardashian-Jenners did, even if I couldn’t fucking stand them.

And with Bucky… I wouldn’t have that.

“So why’d you go on the run anyway?” Bucky asked one night as we sat on the curb, eating ice cream in the Louisiana heat. “I know you told me how you got here, but you’ve never told me why.”

“You’ve never told me how you ended up here or why either,” I shot back, nudging his shoulder with my own.

Somehow the age difference seemed non-existent as we sat there. Honestly, I felt like we were just a bunch of dumb teenagers, shooting the shit and enjoying each other’s company.

Bucky took in a deep breath, his shoulders sinking in a way that made it look like he had all the weight of the world on his shoulders. “I was over in Afghanistan for a long time,” he admitted quietly. “When the war first started, I was 19. I had no idea where my life was going and I had no options except my dad’s mechanic shop. So I enlisted with my best friend, Steve. The one I told you about.”

It’s completely silent except for the sound of an occasional car horn off in the distance.

“Neither one of us knew what we were doing. We realized very quickly that we had no reason being over there, but… but there was nothing else,” he said, swallowing around the lump in his throat. The ice cream he was holding was melting in his trembling hands. “I didn’t know how to do anything else, so I stayed. Steve moved up in the ranks, but I stayed pretty low… I didn’t mind. Kinda liked being the older guy all those young kids could talk to, could rely on… Because they were just like me, getting into a fight that wasn’t theirs because they had nothing else.”

My heart was shattering inside my chest as I scooted a little closer, my knee knocking against his as I tried to give him some sort of silent comfort. He’d been through Hell and made it through.

Bucky let his head rest against mine, his eyes closing as he breathed in the scent of my perfume. “They eventually moved me to some kind of specialized team�� Called us the Howling Commandos. I found out that Steve was heading it and he picked me to be part of it. That’s how I met Sam, because he was on some sort of similar team with the Air Force, except it was just him and his friend, Riley,” he continued, taking a bite of his chocolate fudge brownie ice cream. “I am proud to say that I didn’t kill a single person while I was over there. I just couldn’t. Hell, they’re people just like me, terrified and unsure of what’s going to happen.” His lips pressed against my forehead, letting it linger. “But then about five years ago, I was on a mission with the Commandos, Sam, and Riley, and… this bomb went off while we were playing a game of soccer. I wasn’t even in a fight. That thing took my arm and it took Riley.”

Tentatively, I let my fingers find his, holding his hand and squeezing reassuringly.

“Sam decided to come home with me.” There was a forlorn look in his eyes, as though he was right back at that game of pick-up soccer. “After losing Riley… he couldn’t find a reason to be over there. And then Steve decided to stay, and hell, he’s still over there, leading that fucking team…” Glassy baby blue eyes finally found mine, the both of us doing our best to not cry. “I couldn’t face my family for a long time, so Sam asked me to come stay in Louisiana with him and his family, and I haven’t left since.”

“Have you gone to see your family?” I asked slowly, almost like I was scared I’d frighten him if I spoke too loudly, like a wild animal. “Let them know where you are? That you’re safe?”

He turned to look at me, his baby blues shining. “You worried about me, baby doll?”

“I can’t help it,” I said honestly, unable to tear my eyes away. I hadn’t opened up to someone like that in so damn long. “I can’t help but worry about you.”

The way that I felt about Bucky absolutely terrified me, but there was nothing I could do to stop it. It snuck up on me, like a train coming around a bend.

I hated it.

“What do you want out of this life?” Bucky asked on one walk home, his arm linked in mine. He’d become so much more… tactile. If anyone took a moment to look at us, they’d think we were a couple on a romantic stroll.

Perhaps we were.

But I couldn’t help but grin as I looked up at the sky, taking in the warm air. “I wanna live like how the movie stars do… I want a big house on the beach and twenty cars and a yacht and… and…”

He looked at me long and hard. “And you never wanna have to worry about where your next meal is coming from, if you’re gonna have a place to sleep at night…”

For some reason, I’d felt a bolt of panic over whether or not he’d understand. Whether or not he’d think differently of me, but I should’ve known that he wouldn’t. Hell, he knew me better than anyone else.

“You understand,” I said quietly, my hand squeezing his bicep gratefully. “I want to live how the other half lives for once. I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that.”

A small smile graced his features as we shuffled along. “There isn’t. But… What about love?” He asked.

“Love?”

“Love.”

Love.

Could I even have love? Did I want it?

“I don’t know if there’s a lot of room for love in my plans,” I admitted after a long moment. “In my experience, love has always just been a lie. A word used to manipulate and eventually abuse.”

Letting out a snort, he let his fingers tickle down my tricep until his fingers intertwined with mine. “I’d show you it’s not… I’d show you what real love is,” he said. “I’d give you every part of me, give you all my strength to help you grow into who you wanna be, even if I don’t particularly care about being famous or rich…” He brought my hand to his lips, kissing my knuckles. “I’ll give you a love story, a life, that’s a million times better than any recycled Hollywood plot… I’ll give you the stars and the moon, if you would just let me.”

I hated the way that he made my heart beat faster, the way my breath hitched. “Jamie,” I breathed out quietly, the two of us having stopped in our tracks to just… take each other in. Live in each other’s presence for a moment. “I…”

“You want a big life… one a lot bigger than little old me,” he said simply, shrugging. His blue eyes were so honest, so loving. So warm. A warmth I hadn’t ever experienced before. “I know. But that doesn’t change that I’m in love with you. And if you ever change your mind…” Bucky reached into his pocket and pulled out a business card, pressing it into my free hand. “This is where you can find me. I figure it’s time for me to go home.”

We’d come to a stop in front of my building, and I was shocked at how tight my chest felt. My eyes watered as I stared at him long and hard. “Jamie, please… I⏤”

“Don’t say it. It’s okay,” he insisted as he cupped my cheek, letting his thumb run over my skin as though he was memorizing it. “I just want you to be happy, darling. You got that?” His lips pressed to my forehead, letting it linger. “Go get that life you’ve been dreaming of.”

Twenty-Three

I left New Orleans the next day, grabbing a bus ticket after throwing all of my belongings into my old duffel bag. It was time to move on.

But God, did it hurt.

I didn’t stop crying for weeks, fighting the urge to go right back to Louisiana and tell Bucky to take it back, to get him to beg me to stay with him.

But what kind of life would that leave me with? Working in the diner day after day? Never getting anywhere?

But you’d have James, a voice inside my head reminded me snarkily.

Then again, he most likely wasn’t even in New Orleans anymore, if what he said was true when he gave me the business card of his father’s mechanic shop. Was he really planning on going home to New York City?

A few months later, and I’d worked my way all through the southwest to Santa Fe, where I met Pietro.

My heart was pounding as I pressed in the familiar numbers, having memorized them from the business card now soft and faded from how often I held it in my hands like a lifeline. “Come on… Pick up… Pick up…”

“Barnes Tires and Motors, this is George,” a man said in a gruff voice when he finally picked up. “How can I help you?”

“H-Hi, is James there? James Barnes? Bucky?” I stammered out, hands trembling so bad that the old payphone was almost rattling.

There was a pause, and then muffled talking away from the phone.

And then I heard it being picked up. “This is Bucky,” he said.

It felt like the wind had been knocked right out of my lungs. How had I gone so long without hearing his voice?

Breathing in sharply, I tried to figure out the words to say. But my throat was dry and it was like I’d suddenly forgotten the entire English language.

That was all that it took for Bucky to realize it was me. “Baby doll? Baby doll, is that you?” He asked quietly. “I…” He took in a deep breath, trying to calm himself down. “You don’t gotta say a thing, sweetheart… But just know that if you’re in trouble or you need help or… or anything at all, you better call me…” His voice wavered, as though he was fighting tears just like I was. “God, I miss you so much, baby doll. I love you.”

I love you, too.

I hung up before I could actually say the words. “God, I’m so fucking stupid,” I whispered as I leaned back against the wall of the gas station I’d found myself at, rubbing the heels of my hands into my eyes.

My dumb ass had decided to wander from the bus station, and I’d walked over a mile away. Unless I was staying in Santa Fe for a bit, I’d need to start making my way back.

“You okay?”

In my distress, I hadn’t even heard the rumbling of the motorcycle or noticed the handsome man making his way to me. “Uh, yeah. Yeah, I’m fine,” I said even as I wiped my nose with a pathetic sniffle.

He eyed me for a long moment, his eyes roaming over my figure. “You hungry? I know a great little place nearby. My treat.”

And well, I was never one to turn down free food.

Even if that ‘little place’ ended up being a food truck.

“You know, when you said it was a little place, I didn’t picture it having wheels,” I said teasingly, licking salsa off of my lower lip. “Though, it is the best food I’ve ever gotten from a food truck before.”

“Oh, come on. This is the best food of all time!” He laughed, shaking his head.

“I don’t know if I’d go that far,” I snorted, finishing off my flautas.

Pietro looked at me long and hard. “So, are you gonna tell me what the hell was going on to have a pretty girl like you all teary eyed?” He asked, his head tilting to the side.

I couldn’t help but roll my eyes. “Was this your plan all along?” I asked. Wiping my hands off on a napkin, I did everything I could to avoid his eyes. “Get me all fed and then question me?” But at the same time, the thought of being able to finally talk to someone about it was so appealing… After a long moment of hesitation, I finally gave in. “I fell in love with a man, and he let me go because he knew that I want a life he can’t give me,” I said. “And I was a bitch who didn’t even tell him I love him back when he said it to me.”

Pietro took in a deep breath, slowly letting it out. “Damn. You really are a stone cold bitch, aren’t you?”

“Hey!” I indignantly threw a chunk of tomato at him, glaring. “I just opened up my heart, you dickwad.”

“Dickwad?!” He said, blinking at me in shock. “No one’s ever called me a dickwad before.”

I raised a single eyebrow at him. “Maybe not to your face, but they definitely have.” He gave off the vibe of a fuckboy, of a really, really bad fuckboy.

“Well, since you’re running away from your feelings, how about you spend a week or two with me on the road?” He asked with a grin.

I couldn’t help but blink at him in shock. “What?” I let out a laugh, pulling one of my legs up to my chest. “Do you throw that line out to every girl you meet? Or am I just special?”

Pietro threw a chip at me, and I barely managed to dodge it. “No, I don’t. But… You remind me of me. Needing adventure. A life bigger than four walls and a fence.”

Instinctively, I wanted to snap back that sometimes, four walls and a fence could be an adventure, could be the biggest life there was, as Bucky’s face flashed across my mind.

But I couldn’t do that. Not when I wasn’t ready to face the truth myself.

“Come on, sweet cheeks,” he teased as his foot hooked around mine. “Just think of it. The open highway, a rhythm beneath your feet… Nights full of passion and days of adventure…” Pietro’s voice was deep and husky, as though he was trying to lure me in. “No strings… just warm summer rain soaking us to the bone before we find some cheap motel to huddle down in…”

Plastering on a smile, I stood up and brushed myself on. “Thanks, but… I’d rather be drinking champagne, and the quicker I get to LA, the sooner I will be.”

He let me go with a kiss on the cheek and his cell number pressed into my hand, with a promise to come and pick me up the second I rang.

And despite how sweet he was, how wild and funny and charismatic, there was only one man I wanted to call.

Twenty-Four

I sipped at my martini as I sat at the rooftop bar, absentmindedly watching the television that was mounted on the wall as people droned around me. I’d been in Los Angeles for a year, and I’d spent my time finding the best places to find a husband who could give me the life I dreamed of.

As much as I didn’t want to admit it, it took connections to build a career, and the best way to get a foot in the door when nepotism was so rampant was by marrying someone in the industry.

My silk dress was the most expensive thing I owned, something I’d saved up for months for, had skipped meals for. And fuck, was it worth it. I could feel the stares, the lingering gazes on the little bit of thigh that was exposed by the slit in the dress.

I’d already turned away several men, able to tell just from their expensive watches and cheap suits and shoes.

It was amazing how all the up and coming finance bros thought they fit in with the truly big dogs.

“Well, hello, gorgeous.”

I turned to see who was speaking, my heart skipping a beat when I realized who I was speaking to.

The world famous (or infamous) director, Tony Stark.

“Hello, handsome,” I said smoothly, my lashes fluttering innocently as I took a sip of my horrible drink.

I fucking hated martinis. Always had.

But ordering a martini was more sophisticated than ordering a frozen strawberry margarita.

“Is this seat taken?” He asked as he motioned to the empty bar stool right next to me, even as he was already sitting down. “Let me buy your next round.”

“I can’t think of anything better,” I said, feeling as though my dream life was already in reach.

Twenty-Eight

“Tony, where are you taking me?” I laughed as I let my boyfriend lead me to the private dock at our Malibu mansion.

Well, his mansion. I just happened to also live there.

It had been a whirlwind of a year since I had met Tony, and he’d bought me that second round. He’d taken me all over the globe, anywhere my heart desired.

But I made sure to avoid New York City, though he never understood why. I would never tell him.

Not when I was so close to my dream. I could practically taste it.

“Come on, come on. I have a surprise for you,” he said, keeping his hands over my eyes. He was sure to keep me from tripping and busting my ass, thank god.

The ocean waves were so comforting as they hit the shore, a sound I’d gotten used to over the past year.

He finally brought me to a stop, quietly telling me to keep my eyes closed. “Okay,” he said finally. “Open them.”

My eyes slowly opened, adjusting to the bright light of the California sun. But I was more shocked by the sight of Tony on one knee in front of me, holding out a box with a sparkling diamond ring in it. “Tony?”

The ring was the size of a fucking meteor. It was easily the biggest ring I’d ever seen.

“You know, I never thought I’d meet someone like you,” he said quietly, his dark eyes shining. But his voice was steady. “Someone who understands me, who doesn’t expect me to change into someone I’m not. You accept me as I am, and that’s why I want to give you the world.” He couldn’t help but grin as he nodded to the right. “Starting with that yacht you’ve always dreamed of.”

I hadn’t even noticed that there were two yachts at his private docks instead of just the one. The new one had SS Princess emblazoned on the side, and I couldn’t help but laugh. “Oh… Tony…”

“So, what do you say?” He asked, bringing my attention back to him. “Will you be my wife?”

“Yes.”

Thirty-Two

Swallowing nervously, I looked down at the business card in my hand for the millionth time, the stock paper soft from how often I’d looked at it in the past ten years.

Hell, just how often I’d looked at it in the past six should’ve made it fall apart by now. Not that I didn’t have it memorized.

I’d finally ended my marriage after being miserable for so long. I’d gotten my yacht, my fancy houses, my career, all the jewelry that I could dream of, and none of it made me happy. Tony and I… never grew. And I never dreamed. Every day was the same, and every day was torture as I realized that I didn’t have the one thing that actually mattered.

The garage in front of me was busy, music blasting and the sound of men shouting to each other as they worked.

Suddenly I felt absolutely ridiculous wearing a Chanel dress and Gucci heels, an Hermés bag on my arm.

BARNES TIRES AND MOTORS was lit up along the top of the shop in bright red letters, though the lights in the ‘r’ of ‘motors’ were out.

I felt like a fool. I had wanted the life I had so desperately that I gave up everything for it. I got the movie star life, my name on billboards and my face on magazines.

But it wasn’t ever enough.

My heels clicked against the blacktop as I slowly made my way towards the front area of the shop, bells clinging above my head to let them know someone was there.

“Can I help you, ma’am?” A man asked as he came around the corner.

He looked so much like Bucky, it punched the air straight from my lungs.

“H-Hi. I’m looking for James Barnes. Is he here?” I asked after a long moment of hesitation. There was no way that the man was Bucky, but I didn’t doubt he was related.

The man raised his brows, wiping his hands on a rag. “My son’s in the shop. I’ll take you to him.” His full head of hair was white, his thick facial hair matching. Even with all the wrinkles on his face, he was a handsome man. Holding open the door for me, he led me into the loud shop, some eighties rock song blasting over the speakers.

I couldn’t help but smile as ‘Rock You Like a Hurricane’ by Scorpions came on. It was one of Bucky’s favorites back when we worked in the diner together.

“BUCK! YOU GOT A VISITOR!” The man shouted, causing several people to look our way.

My cheeks felt hot as I avoided their gaze, hoping they wouldn’t recognize me. I didn’t want to be a famous movie star anymore, a celebrity that had to beg for scraps of privacy.

My mind went numb, my heart stopping inside my chest as he stepped around a gray Ford Escape another man was working on.

He was even more handsome than he was the last time I saw him.

“Can I help y—” He broke off, his blue eyes going wide when he realized that it was me. “Hi.”

All of a sudden, everything I’d planned to say flew out of my head. All of the eloquent words I’d strung together were gone. And I just proceeded to word vomit.

“Did you know that, uh, when you marry someone you’re not in love with, you won’t… you won’t grow into it?” I asked, my voice shaking. “Um… I married a man who could give me a life I thought I always wanted, and he just… sucked.” Eyes stinging, I fought back against tears. “And I thought that all I ever wanted was the life I have now, was the life movie stars and the Kardashians lived. But… But I hate it. I hated every second I was away from you.” I let out a weak laugh, unable to stop the tears. “I wanted to turn around the second I got on the bus in New Orleans, but my stupid stubborn ass didn’t. I should have. I should’ve gotten off and just run right back to you because I… I love you, James. I always have.”

The garage had gone almost deadly quiet, and my heart sank when I realized Bucky looked almost frozen in shock.

“I know that I shouldn’t have showed up like this,” I scrambled to say. “But I… I’ve been trying to get my divorce finalized for two years and I finally did, and I kept telling myself that once it was done, I’d never hold myself back from what I really want ever again. From who I want. If… If you want me.” My face felt like it was on fire, my hands shaking. I shook my head as I took a step backwards. “What am I thinking? There’s no way you’re not married. I… I’m so so—”

Before I could finish the word ‘sorry,’ Bucky had closed the distance between us, his hands cradling my face so gently. He held me like I was made of fine crystal as he kissed me. He kissed me like his life depended on it, like I was the one source of oxygen.

And I kissed him back just as fiercely. “I love you. I love you so much,” I breathed out in between kisses, unwilling to let him go as my Hermés bag fell into the dust and oil on the concrete below.

Bucky smiled into the kiss, his arm wrapping around my waist to keep me pressed to his chest. “I love you so much, darlin.’ God, I’ve missed you…” His nose nudged against mine as we finally broke for air, both of us breathing heavily.

My knees felt like Jell-O as I held onto him. His grip was the only reason I hadn’t fallen to the ground already.

“I’m sorry I was a dumb twenty-two year old,” I said, snorting as he stole another kiss.

“No… Don’t be sorry,” he insisted, his fingers massaging my scalp as our foreheads pressed together. It was like he was scared to stop touching me, like I would disappear at any second. “You were young… You had to go out and make your own mistakes… I’ve just been waiting for the day you were ready.”

All the years apart melted away and all that remained was the two of us, two souls so intertwined that there was no way to truly separate us.

Our lips were half molded together as I said, “I’m never leaving you again. I promise I swear on everything…”

My heart almost stopped inside my chest as I heard someone clearing their throat, looking to see Bucky’s father staring at us with his arms crossed over his chest. “M-Mr. Barnes, sir…”

He gave a crooked smile that was so reminiscent of Bucky that I couldn’t help but grin back. “The Mrs. will wanna know if you’re staying for dinner.”

“Yeah,” I said as I looked up at Bucky, toying with a strand of his hair. “That sounds perfect.”

Later that night, Bucky and I laid in his bed, a mess of bare limbs as his fingers ran up and down my back soothingly. “What do you want from this life, baby girl?” He asked absentmindedly.

Humming, I traced shapes on his bare chest, sometimes pressing a kiss to where his prosthetic met his shoulder, on the tender scar tissue. “You.”

A grin tugged at the corner of his mouth, despite the already mischievous look on his face. “Really? Not even the stars and the moon?” He asked teasingly.

I knew he’d give it to me anyway, give me all that he could. But I was sure now that the only thing I wanted from this life was his love. “Not even the stars and the moon.”

#bucky barnes x reader #bucky x reader #bucky x y/n #bucky barnes x y/n #bucky barnes reader insert

[wheredafandomat]

The Hotel Waitress 🏨P2🏨 The performance

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It had been just over a month. Just over a month of pretending to be Valentina Quince, loving wife to Thomas. You both worked together at Mama Lou’s, Thomas as a chef whilst you carried on being a waitress. Some nights when the restaurant wasn’t too busy, you’d sing whilst Thomas played the piano. Everyone loved it. The marriage was believable.

The night had arrived where you and Jonathan’s plan would come to fruition. You personally welcomed Roper along with his group to the restaurant, showing them to their tables. As soon as you saw Roper, you felt your heart rate increasing. You wanted to desperately disarm one of his security men and put a bullet through his head but to your chagrin, you couldn’t do that. Luckily you had a lot of time to prefect your acting skills so when you showed them to the table, you didn’t complain when wondering eyes found their way down your shirt. You didn’t make a fuss when a hand accidentally brushed passed your behind. You didn’t slam anyone’s head on the table when someone made a passing comment about your figure, you smiled and remained polite and subservient.

Jonathan ensured he was seen too. When the restaurant became less busy, he went to the piano and ushered you over once you were on break. Running his fingers over the keyboard, he settled on Can’t help falling in love. Once he played the first few notes, you began to sing.

“Wise men say, only fools rush in but I can’t help falling in love with you”

You made sure to look at Pine whilst saying the last bit and he beamed up at you as everyone cheered throughout your performance.

“Shall I stay? Would it be, would it be a sin? If I can't help falling in love with you”

You saw that Roper, along with his entourage, were all watching the performance. You caressed Jonathan’s cheek and kissed him when you had finished, earning applauds from everyone including Roper who even stood up.

Returning back to working, you waited on Ropers table, listening in on their conversations. You managed to get their names. There was Roper of course along with Sandy, Corkoran who was also sometimes referred to as Corky and two of Ropers guards, the ones with the guns you thought to yourself whenever you passed them.

When you spoke to Jonathan, he said that he’d recognised the people at the table but that they hadn’t properly seen his face.

“They were too distracted by your beautiful singing” he chuckled tucking a strand of hair behind your ear.

“Stop it” you laughed “you were the star of the show. Do you know who the rest of the people are, I only got the names of the men.”

“There’s Caroline, shes Sandy’s wife and most of the children belong to her and there’s Jed, she’s Ropers wife.” He explained putting his hands at your sides.

“Oh the pretty young one, she seems to only really care about the kids” you commented.

“It’s probably boring for her to be sitting at a table with older men who are no doubt discussing things that don’t concern her, now get back out there” He smiled removing his hands.

The sun had set over the restaurant illuminating the glow of the lights. Ropers table got livelier as the champagne flowed. Laughs could be heard from the children however this was short lived when two men with guns ran up to Ropers son and grabbed him.

“NOBODY MOVE” he shouted as the child struggled against his grip.

“THIS IS A ROBBERY!” The other one yelled, throwing his gun around.

You watched as Ropers guards ran up to the two men, unsheathing their guns until their movement was halted by one of the men pointing a gun at the child’s temple.

“WHY DO YOU HAVE GUNS? YOU POLICE?” One of the attackers ask.

“No, they’re with me” you hear Roper explain calmly.

“PUT THE GUNS ON THE FLOOR!” The man holding Ropers son shouts gesturing to the floor.

The woman who you now recognise as Jed began wailing watching the child with a gun to his head.

“ROPER! Please, goddamn it ROPER!” She whimpers hitting Ropers shoulder who’s managed to keep a stoic expression.

“Frisky, Tabby, do what he says” Roper orders.

“ON THE FLOOR!” One of the attackers shout.

You hear what sounds like a negotiation between Roper and the two attackers but your attention shifts to Jonathan who has walked to the back of the group. You gave him a small nod confining that the plan was in full swing. Noticing this, Jonathan prepared himself to stop the attackers.

Looking back towards the group, you could see Ropers son still struggling in the mans grip as Corky began speaking. You hear them mention money and then see them all stripping themselves of their jewellery before stuffing it into a bag.

The attackers demand more money for the boy as Corky tried to negotiate further but the attackers didn’t agree. They began trying to run away with Ropers son who was screaming for his dad. You almost felt guilty.

You watched as Jonathan ‘came to the rescue’ breaking Ropers son from the men’s grip. A small gasp escaped you when the boy ran towards you, wrapping his arms around your legs as his tears dampened the material of your trousers. Lifting his head, the boy saw Jed and ran towards her as Roper approached too.

Meanwhile, Jonathan was receiving a brutal beating whilst you and Jed were trying to calm the distressed boy as Roper began walking off towards something. Following his gaze, you saw Jonathan laying on the floor bloodied and bruised.

“Who is he? Where the hell did he come from?”

“I think he works here”

The voices all overlapped as you focused on the rising and falling of Jonathan’s chest. He was thankfully alive. Leaving Jed with the boy, you rushed over to Jonathan, kneeling beside him.

You heard Roper talking above you as you put Jonathan’s hand in yours.

“That’s Pine from Switzerland. What are you doing here? Can he hear me?” He questioned turning to you as you frantically shrugged your shoulders. “We’re going to get you out of here” he assured looking towards Jonathan before turning to Corky. “Corky, get the boats ready, will you and call the hospital.”

“Which one?” You heard Corky question with a sarcastic tone.

Their voices faded out as you looked down at Jonathan. You sent a silent prayer out as you pressed his hand against your lips.

“N-no police” you heard Jonathan utter which Roper agreed to.

The last thing you heard pine say before he passed out was “Valentina”

A/N: Imagine Jonathan Pine playing the piano whilst you singggg 🥰

Tags:

@sititran

#thomas william hiddleston #hiddleston daily #tom hiddleston #the night manager #richard roper #jonathan pine x reader #jonathan pine

[turtle-steverogers]

hi mikey i know ur answering pride asks rn but i was wondering what ur thoughts are on stevebucky as parents?? idk it's just been on my mind (ps ur Lou Ann the bunny hcs are chefs kiss beautiful😢)

OH BOY OH BOY ANON YOU ARE SPEAKING MY FUCKING LANGUAGE

(also fr i love getting any kinds of asks omg)

but fr kid fics and single parent aus are my SHIT. i actually have a few ideas in mind for like a total au fic for parent stucky and also a shrunkyclunks fic w cap steve x modern dad bucky

buT ANYHOW ummm ima just skip an excerpt from my shrunkyclunks fic that features bucky's child jake (who is an oc that @technically-whizzy and i made up):

“--All good here. We’re at The Mall in Washington DC and we’re safe. A car backfired and it made a really loud noise, but that’s all it was. We’re safe.”

Steve lifts his head, teeth chattering and shoulders trembling as he latches onto the voice that had brought him down to earth. It’s the man from the museum-- Bucky, Steve remembers. He blinks rapidly and unfolds himself, flushing as he realizes people are staring. Bucky is sitting cross legged in front of him, blocking him from view and warding away the worst of the scrutinizing glances. Gratitude fills Steve’s chest.

Jake is sitting on Steve’s other side, looking between Bucky and Steve with wide eyes. His little hands are holding clumps of grass and he’s tearing at the spades, clearly anxious. He isn’t saying a word-- probably realizing that it’s a serious situation. Kids are receptive as hell.

Bucky isn’t talking anymore, having trailed off when he saw Steve crawl back to awareness.

“Hey, you with me?” Bucky asks.

Steve swallows and glances down at his hands. They look far away-- like he’s watching the world through one of Sam’s video games, darkness seeping in at the edges after he takes a hit.

“Um, yeah,” he says, because at least he isn’t panicking anymore.

Bucky nods and leans back on his hands, opening his body language. Steve finds himself relaxing in the face of it, instinctively falling into the pull of calm confidence that Bucky exudes.

“Glad to hear it,” Bucky says easily.

“Um,” Steve swallows and looks around, trying to ground himself back to the rest of reality. “I’m sorry about that… thank you.”

Bucky shakes his head. “No sorries,” he says. “I know how much those suck. It’s no problem, really.”

There’s an implication there that has Steve looking at Bucky again, a kinship running between them. It’s nice, he thinks, to feel seen.

“Dad, can I hug Steve now?” Jake asks and both men look at him.

“Why don’t you ask Steve?” Bucky says gently.

Jake twists to look at Steve. “Can I hug you? Dad always hugs me when I feel scared.”

Steve just barely manages not to let his eyes well with tears. “Sure,” he says and laughs wetly when Jake stands and carefully hugs his arms around Steve’s neck. “Better already, kiddo. Thank you.”

Jake beams.

-

anyway yah in conclusion: dad stucky is my SHIT i love it sm

#stucky #steve rogers #bucky barnes #stucky fic #stucky au

[coolnerdyandalone]

 ‘To Be So Lonely’ is literally the saddest and loudest Larry song and here’s why

First of all, all of this was fueled by this post on tiktok by @finelinemegs (thats her tiktok handle idk if she’s on tumblr or anything) so the credit really goes to her.

Ok so basically the groundbreaking realization that she unveils is how the background guitar trilling is supposed to be mimicking the phone line ringing when you’re calling someone and waiting to leave a voicemail - and really once you hear that, it’s all over.

The theory is, when the guitar is trilling in the background, imagine that as the voicemail being left by a drunk Louis during a fight right? (probably a pretty big one by the looks of it but we’ll get to that later). When the guitar is not trilling in the background, that’s what Harry’s feeling as he’s listening to the voicemail (if you’ve ever gotten a drunk VM from an ex [or anyone you were in a fight with really] you know the feeling of mentally responding to whatever they’re saying as you’re listening to the VM for the first time - H has done a really good job capturing that whole rollercoaster of emotions here)

[additionally, the reason we know its a vm that he received and not left for someone is because who the hell would remember the content of a drunken voicemail that they left for someone well enough to write a whole song about it, using what appears to be a lot of direct quotes? Not me that’s for sure, I can hardly remember the content of the voicemails I leave for people when I’m sober, but maybe that’s just a me problem]

Knowing this, the lyric “And I'm just an arrogant son of a bitch who can't admit when he's sorry” makes SO much more sense, and it makes INFINITELY more sense why Harry thinks it’s SO hilarious that that is the line that everyone’s obsessed with and giggles almost every time he sings it (see here, here, here, here, and I’m sure plenty more times but it’s late and I need to get up early tomorrow). AND knowing that he’s the recipient of the voicemail that that line seems to be a direct quote from, we KNOW at the VERY LEAST that the voicemail was left by a man because we know Harry’s not the type to change pronouns just for the sake of singing it from the “right POV” (girl crush? juice? anyone? anyways).

So now that we’ve established that TBSL is a voicemail and response between Harry and Louis, lets get into the nitty gritty of the lyrics shall we? (we shall)

Don't blame me for fallin' I was just a little boy

Right off the bat we’ve got a reference to the x factor days. Even without being all 💙💚about it, who else could it be about? Who else would have had a relationship with since that person was a little boy? (or if you’re not past Harry saying at the Forum performance “why is it that when you think i’m calling myself an ‘arrogant son of a bitch’ that you sing the loudest?” and you think he’s singing it from his POV as the caller, who has he been in a relationship since he was a little boy?) The answer is Louis. It’s always Lou (hehe) 

Don't blame the drunk caller Wasn't ready for it all You can't blame me, darling Not even a little bit I was away

And I'm just an arrogant son of a bitch Who can't admit when he's sorry

Next, we establish the POV of the caller (we’ve pretty much established this to be Louis right? or do I need to prove it further? no? ok good) aka associate the trilling of the guitar “line ringing” with the caller, and the absence of the guitar “line ringing” as something else. Then you have wasn’t ready for it all which is strangely reminiscent of what is said in too young, which we KNOW is written from Louis’ perspective about falling someone when you’re too young (perhaps just a little boy anyone?). Then there’s i was away - a reference to the strain of distance being the issue in the relationship? which is a common theme from songs/interviews from the early one direction days up to now. 

Don't call me "baby" again You got your reasons I know that you're tryna be friends I know you mean it But don't call me "baby" again It's hard for me to go home and be so lonely

Next we have the entire tone shift of the song that suggests we’re switching from the caller to the recipient of the VM. You have the initial reaction of anger followed by the exacerbation of someone who’s been through this argument too many times already with someone who they’re very intimate with - they call the recipient “baby” multiple times but clearly the recipient (I’m just gonna say Harry and Louis from now on I know y’all get the picture) is not in the mood for pet names. Pet names, by the way, that we know Harry and Louis use with each other. Next we have the line that truly breaks my heart: we all know the association Larry have with the term home and everything it means to them (and if you don’t here’s an incredibly detailed post which has been posted on the @larryreceiptsproof blog as well as my own humble analysis just of the song here). Harry saying “its hard for me to go home and be so lonely” is HEARTBREAKING and has the same exact vibes as always you’s “I went from LAX to Heathrow, walked through my door, but it felt nothing like home, 'cause you're not home, waiting to wrap your legs around me”

I just hope you see me In a little better light Do you think it's easy Being of the jealous kind? 'Cause I miss the shape of your lips Your wit It's just a trick And this is it, so I'm sorry

This part is *chef’s kiss*. First of all, during the instrumental before the lyrics start (here) you hear the lighting of the match and then the flame being blown out in the background VERY faintly and then that’s followed by “i just hope you see me in a little better light”?? The SYMBOLISM!!! Does him blowing out the match/flame/light mean that his response is going to be that there’s no chance at Harry seeing Louis in a better light after what he’s done? Is it just him trying to bring attention to that line?? For what purpose?? why??? Next we have a reference to jealousy that we ALL know is a VERY common theme in the Larry discourse (if you don’t know, pls see this vid originally by @freddiesmyqueen ) Then we get to the shape of your lips which! we know Harry has VERY unique and pluSH lips (thank you to @dreamboaths for supplying most of those posts). The “your wit, its just a trick” line does confuse me a bit because Louis is generally known as the wittier one, but we do know that Harry does have his knack for stand up and maybe it being a ‘trick’ is a reference to its more of something he hides behind or something he can use to hide his true emotions?

Anyways the rest of the song continues on repeating the same lyrics I’ve already analyzed so no need for me to be redundant. BUT if anything, this will probably change the entire way you listen to this song and for that I apologize because I really used to be able to listen to it and not even think and now I’m probably gonna cry every time.

#get ready to have your world rocked #masterpost #to be so lonely #harry styles #fine line #harry styles to be so lonely #hs #TBSL #larry #larry proof #Larry Stylinson #louis and harry #ls #lt #harry #larrystylinson #harrystyles #louistomlinson #home #always you #walls #too young #harry styles lips #harry styles is a comedian #louis calling harry pet names #song analysis

[ericsonclan]

Raspberries

Summary: Clementine and Louis enjoy a playful evening together in the music room.

Notes: This one occurs in a Romance Louis/Save Violet reality. 

Clementine and Louis were in the music room together, practicing their nightly music lesson. They’d started small when it came to Louis teaching Clementine how to play, focusing on nursery rhyme tunes while she learned the keys. Tonight, she was trying to master “Three Blind Mice”. She wasn’t doing too bad, although she’d hit the occasional sour note. Louis would simply smile and redirect her hands to the right keys. It was nice to work on something together that didn’t require speaking or walking. For a few precious minutes each night they could spend time enjoying each other’s company without the painful reminders of the past few months coming into play. “Well, I think I’ve just about got it now,” Clementine declared moments after finishing the tune. “What do you think, Lou?” Louis gave a dramatic chef’s kiss to show his approval. “That good?” Clementine giggled. “Well, alright, then, I won’t question the master’s opinion,” Louis looked like he meant to reply, but was stifled by a yawn. “Yeah, it is about that time. Help me up?” Bracing one hand against the piano, Clementine held onto Louis as he lifted her to her feet. Foot. Her crutches were leaning against the couch. Clem slowly began to hop over in their direction, leaning on Louis’ shoulder for support. It was only a few steps more… Suddenly Clem’s good leg twisted under her. Before Louis could catch her she’d fallen to the floor with a surprised squeak. Louis immediately crouched down beside her, his eyes screaming his apology.

“It’s fine, Lou,” Clementine gave her boyfriend a wry smile before looking over at her right leg. “You, my friend, are fired. I give you one job and you can’t even manage that?” Her foot had nothing to say on the matter. Clementine fell back to the floor with a sigh. She tucked her arms behind her head as she looked up at the mildewed ceiling. “You know what? I think I’m gonna sleep here tonight. That seems like a good idea,” A thump beside her drew Clementine’s attention. Louis had plopped down beside her, stretching out on the floor as well and meeting her gaze with a playful smirk. “Calling my bluff, huh?” Louis shook his head. “Oh, you’d actually be willing to sleep here? I shouldn’t be surprised. You practically live in this room anyway,” Clem teased. Louis’ wrinkled his nose in retort. Then his eyes wandered lower. Clementine looked down to see what he was staring at. At some point during the fall her shirt had risen up above her jeans, exposing her slim stomach. Clementine felt heat rush to her cheeks at the unintentional breach in modesty. She reached to tug the shirt back down, but Louis’ hand stopped her. Clementine looked up at him, searching his face to find his intention. Slowly Louis placed her hand back by her side. He leaned forward, his head moving trailing down her form. Clementine felt a panicked thrill run through her blood. She didn’t know how to react to what was happening. Should she say something? Or- All of a sudden Louis planted his lips directly on Clementine’s belly button and blew the loudest raspberry she’d ever heard. “Louis!” Clem shrieked, immediately devolving into giggles as she lunged forward, pinning him to the ground. Before Louis could stop her she pulled up the corner of his shirt, blowing her own raspberry against his stomach. “How do you like that? Wait, no-” Retaliation was immediate. Lifting her up onto his lap, Louis buried his face against her stomach, blowing a series of raspberries that made Clementine enormously ticklish. “Louis, please! I give, I give!” Clementine declared, tears rolling down her face as she struggled to break free of her boyfriend’s playful grasp. Louis was laughing too, the sound rumbling deep in the back of his throat. He paused his barrage for a moment to enjoy the smile on Clem’s face. That was a tactical error. With a mock war cry Clementine turned the tables, tackling Louis to the floor once more. Louis attempted to defend himself, covering his stomach with his arms. That only led to Clementine running her hands along his sides, trying to tickle him into submission. “Better give up, Lou,” she taunted, pressing her fingers deeper into his sides. “I’m not planning to show any mercy,” Louis shook his head back and forth as he futilely attempted to wriggle his way to freedom. His eyes sparkled with mischief. He wouldn’t surrender so easily. Suddenly the door opened and both of them froze, looking up at the source of the sound. Aasim stood in the doorway looking horrified at what he’d just walked in on. “I was just dropping by to grab a book,” “O-OK,” Clementine stammered, her cheeks taking on a flustered hue. Quickly she adjusted the hem of her shirt, tugging it down over her jeans. Aasim walked in and grabbed the volume that lay open on the couch. “You know, you both have bedrooms that would be much more suitable locations for activities of that nature,” “It’s not what you think!” Clementine protested, rising to one knee. “It was a tickle fight!” “If that’s what you want to call it, fine,” Aasim retorted. He exited the room before Clementine could argue her point any further. Louis was dying of laughter. His arm draped over his eyes, Clementine could tell that he was laughing to the point of tears. She levelled her best glare at her boyfriend even though he couldn’t see it. “It’s not funny! What it had been A.J. who’d walked in?” Louis glanced over at his girlfriend. Lifting his hands up, he gave a good-natured shrug. “Oh, you’re no help,” Clementine huffed. Her crutches were only a few feet away. She slid across the floor, attempting to get to them. Before she could get far though, she felt a pair of arms lifting her up. Her eyes went up to Louis, who gave her a playful wink before reaching to loop her canes over one hand and walking out of the room. “I can make it myself, you know,” Clementine softly protested. Louis ignored her. Making his way out of the admin building, he carried her across the front yard. The night air pleasantly prickled against Clementine’s skin. She rested her cheek against Louis’ chest, taking a moment to breathe in his familiar scent. She could feel how tired she was, her eyes drifting open and shut. Her energy had been distressingly lower since the amputation. At this moment though it felt like a blessing. She knew she’d sleep well. Louis opened the door softly with one foot lest AJ was already asleep inside. Of course he wasn’t. He’d told Clem earlier that night that he and Willy had plans to build a blanket fort in the older boy’s room. She wouldn’t be surprised if he planned to stay the night there. Gently setting his girlfriend down on her bed, Louis positioned the crutches against the dresser beside her. “Lou, would you mind checking on AJ for me? If he wants to spend the night in Willy’s room, that’s fine. I just wanna make sure,” Louis nodded. Sitting beside her on the bed, he began unlacing her boot. When he slowly pulled it off, Clementine inadvertently hissed. Louis’ eyes jumped up to study her face in concern. “I’m OK. Just been a long day is all,” Louis nodded in understanding. Setting the boot beside her bed, he rose to leave. “Louis?” Clementine’s voice caused him to pause and turn around in the doorway. “Tonight was fun,” Louis smiled. Placing a hand over his heart, he extended his arm toward Clementine, causing a rush of emotions bubbling up inside her all over again. With that, he was gone. Clementine found she was smiling to herself as her head sunk lower into the pillow. Her eyes drifted closed, staying shut this time. Life had a way of being surprisingly wonderful sometimes. She was thankful for today.

#clouis #louistine #louisentine #twdg clementine #twdg #twdgs4 #fanfic #twdg louis #mute louis

[anxiouslynumbme]

Carmuel Missing Scenes/Moments

Warning: (Sexual Situations, Strong Language, Drug Use.)

3x06

_______________________________________________________

Samuel had tried to get Carla alone all day, but she was a master at avoiding him. He couldn't let her do it again. So he'd settled on watching her for the rest of the day, hoping that she wasn't desperate enough to use at school.

Carla looked almost robotic and it seemed she was losing more of herself every time Samuel looked at her.

He looked at his bruised hand with a grimace, maybe taking his issues out on a locker wasn't the best idea. Samuel's anger at Valerio hadn't died down, if anything, it festered.

The school day had finally come to an end and he couldn't see Carla anywhere. Samuel didn't how he missed the fact that she had already left, when he'd been watching her like a hawk. Samuel knew she wasn't going to be happy when he suddenly showed up at her door. But she gave him no choice.

Once he'd reached her house, Samuel pushed his nerves to the side. A woman, he recognized as Mirella smiled at him, after opening the door.

"Uh, Hi. Is Carla here?"

He should've called first. But she wouldn't have answered, so Samuel couldn't really feel bad about it.

"Yes. Come in, sir. I'll go get her."

Samuel slowly made his way inside, waiting awkwardly in the foyer and not for the first time, he could see just how different their worlds were. A moment later he heard Carla's angry footsteps stumping down the stairs, Samuel whirled around to see she was still in her uniform, which never failed to cause him to stir. But that was obviously not why he was here.

"Have you lost your mind? What the fuck are you doing here?"

"Tell me you didn't take it."

Samuel could see the agitation all over her soft features.

"You are the most frustrating person I've ever met. You're lucky my parents aren't here."

"Carla - "

"Just follow me." she huffed, quickly turning on her heel and walking up the stairs.

While he'd been to Carla's house before, Samuel had never actually seen her bedroom. The second he stepped through the door, his eyes roamed every corner with burning curiosity. It was spotless, which came as no surprise since they had maids. He paced around until he was at her desk, his hand smoothing over the surface. He grinned at a picture of her and Lu when they were younger, Carla's smile looked so genuine.

"Samuel?"

He cleared his throat. "Uh, yeah. Sorry."

"What do you want?" she sighed tiredly.

"Did you ta - "

"No, I didn't. I literally just got home."

"Good. Now flush it down the toilet."

"You know I'm not gonna do that."

"Why do you need it?"

Carla simply stared at him, fingers going for her shirt, unbuttoning the first, second, then the third button. His body surged in attention, before his mind snapped into focus and he looked away.

"Your tricks are getting old, Carla."

"Don't flatter yourself. Since you came uninvited, I'm changing out of my uniform anyway. If that makes you uncomfortable, wait outside. Better yet, why don't you leave my house all together?"

"Sure, throw it away and I'm gone."

"You really are insufferable." Carla puffed out a breath, he subtly let his eyes wander over to her, she had changed into a simple white shirt and was sliding her legs through grey cotton shorts. Samuel breathed in relief, he wasn't sure he could've handled it if he had checked and found her naked.

Once she was fully clothed and facing him, Carla crossed her arms. "I'm not getting rid of it, Samuel. So let it go and go home."

"I can't do that. Not when I know what you're about to do."

"Why do you keep doing this?" Carla asked harshly.

She knew why. They both did. It didn't matter that she didn't want to acknowledge it, or that he was too scared to say it again. Samuel couldn't just walk away from her when she was obviously having such a rough time. Such a rough time that she'd resorted to this extreme level of dealing with it. And Samuel'd be damned if he was going to just idly stand by and watch her self-destruct.

He disregarded her question, striding towards her. "Give it to me."

"No."

"Carla, I'm not leaving unless I know you don't have it."

"What is wrong with you?"

"I'm trying - "

"No, seriously," she interjected with a glare, "are you constantly losing brain cells? What I do is none of your business."

Samuel wasn't fazed by her words. He was about to open his mouth when his eyes thoroughly took note of her state. Her body was quivering, her curled fists were visibly trembling as she breathed heavily. Drops of sweat pouring out of her forehead and down her pale face, her sullen eyes were misting over with tears.

A painful stab of worry rocked him as he raised both palms to her face, Carla blenched but didn't move away from his touch. Taking it as a good sign, Samuel moved closer to her, his thumbs soothingly rubbing back and forth across her cheeks.

She had gone too far and his stomach dropped at the realization.

"You need help, Carla."

"No, no. I'm fine. I'm handling it." her wavering voice was proof that she didn't believe her own words. She was starting to shiver all over, Samuel quickly grabbed the first blanket he saw on her bed and threw it over her shoulders, wrapping it tightly around her.

"Thank you."

Samuel tilted her chin up. "You have to stop."

"I know - but I can't," she told him in a low voice.

"Of course you can. You are so strong, I know - "

"No, you don't get it. I...I can't carry on without it."

"What do you mean?"

"I need it. I just have to."

"Why? Why won't you just talk to me?"

"I - I can't, you know that."

"Yes. But I don't know why!"

"Samuel, please. Don't. Not now, I'm so tired and I feel so - " Carla broke off with an evident shudder, swaying in the spot, almost losing her balance. Samuel instantly held her closer.

"Okay, okay," he said, kissing her forehead gently, "I'm sorry."

Samuel felt her body sag against him and his arms tightened around her, lips trailing light kisses down her right cheek. "It's okay. You'll be okay." he kept repeating it to affirm it for both of them.

And then Carla collapsed completely, a loud sob leaving her mouth. Samuel's entire body stilled with her tears, Carla always kept it together, he had never seen her break. A vicious, unsettling emotion cut through him deeply, his gut wrenched with her cries; head pounded with every gasp of pain out of her lips.

"Shh, it'll be alright." Samuel felt so helpless, his arms gripping her to him so firmly, he was scared it was cutting her airflow. But Carla didn't care, her arms grasping onto him just as hard, crying her soul into his chest.

Samuel didn't know when exactly they had fallen down on the bed, or when had tears started streaming down his face. Witnessing Carla's hurt so transparently, rattled him to the core. Only when Carla lifted her head off his chest to look at him, did he notice how the sunlight had dimmed in the room.

"Why are you crying?" her voice was hoarse as she wiped a tear from his cheek.

Because you're in pain, he thought to himself, And I don't know how to help you, I don't know how to make any of this better.

Samuel simply shrugged with a weak smile. She didn't push it, leaning forward to kiss the rest of his tears away, leaving him with shivers running down his spine. Samuel shut his eyes in contentment, tugging her closer to him; his other hand massaging the back of her head.

"You should eat something," he said after a period of serene silence.

"Like what, macaroni?"

His heart fluttered. "I could make you some, I'm sure you have everything I need in your kitchen."

"I was kidding, Samuel. Do you ever eat anything else?"

He paused, pretending to consider it. "Not really, no."

Carla chuckled. "You know, I could make you something."

Samuel looked down at her, waiting for those eyes to gaze back up at him. "Carla Rosòn Caleruga can cook?"

"Of course," she replied, suddenly hoisting herself up and straddling his waist, her haunting eyes piercing his. "I'm a woman of many talents."

"I'm well-aware," his reply came out breathless, "I just don't think cooking is one of them."

Carla giggled, the sound humming through his system. "Fine, you got me. I can't cook for shit, but I'm a very fast learner. Maybe you could teach me, Chef."

Even though Samuel knew he wasn't much better, he nodded with a grin. "I'd be honored."

Carla then bent down achingly slow before finally meeting his lips. The kiss was lazy and deep, his tongue swirling with hers in a consuming tremor that traveled through every inch of his body, striking his lower region.

Samuel knew it was the wrong time and they should definitely stop. Carla had just finished crying in his arms, not to mention she was suffering from withdrawal. And a part of him knew she might be feeling too exposed after showing such vulnerability; she might be deflecting the issue by turning things sexual and not talking about it. But while Samuel knew that they needed to finally talk about everything; that she needed some time and space to recover, he couldn't help but feel they both needed this. They both needed the comfort they found in each other. Even Just for a moment.

The kiss was quickly turning heavy, her fingers making quick work of his buttons. His palms clutched her shirt before slipping under it, his fingers tracing the soft skin of her back as their hips ground together ardently.

"Carla." he groaned into her mouth.

They had to stop. Samuel was reluctantly slowing the progress of their eager embrace, when he heard a muffled ringing under his head. He couldn't register the sound at first, his head fuzzy with everything Carla.

Samuel pulled away slightly, his hand reaching under him and retrieving Carla's phone. He managed to catch the name on the screen before handing it to her.

His jaw ticked. Yeray.

Carla frowned, silencing the phone and throwing it carelessly to the side. She tried to kiss him again but he stopped her.

"You should really eat something," he said quietly.

Carla paused, staring at him. She finally inhaled loudly in resignation and flopped down next to him. It was tense for a few minutes before she rescued them from it.

"Fine. But we're not eating macaroni."

He smiled. "Deal."

_______________________________________________________

The ended up ordering pizza, which they were currently eating in front of the pool. They'd spent the time waiting for it to be delivered, talking seriously and mindlessly, he'd told her that Rebe found out about the deal he'd made with the police, but left out the part where she'd called him out on why he'd started things with her. They also talked about silly shit, that made them both guffaw and relax. And Samuel was just realizing that even though Carla was still fidgeting and a bit antsy, she was looking a little better; and she hadn't brought up the drugs or her need for it.

"My parent will be home soon," she announced, her voice still a bit scratchy, "you'll need to go."

He said nothing in response, merely nodding. Samuel wouldn't get anywhere asking her why and he didn't want to ruin this time with her.

"Wanna go for a swim?" Carla asked abruptly.

"A swim?" he repeated stupidly.

"Yep." she grinned. "Come on!"

And then she was taking her clothes off. Samuel swallowed, exhaling a sharp breath; watching as she peeled off her shirt and shorts before diving in, water spattering around her. Samuel's hesitation lasted about a second. Because seeing Carla smiling, her eyes beckoning him to join her in the joy she was having - no matter how temporary - made his decision fairly easy.

He stood up, shedding his clothes, and quickly jumping in after her with only his boxers on. Carla let out a cheerful laugh at the splash he caused. They both immediately swam to each other, their laughter dying down as they gazed upon one another. And when she leaned in to kiss him, he softly spoke.

"I don't want to taint us."

Carla blanched in surprise. "What?"

"I - I shouldn't have kissed you the other night. But more importantly, I shouldn't have gotten with Rebe in the first place, knowing how I feel about you. And now I have to live with the fact that I hurt her.

"And even if I don't care about Yeray or his feelings. I know what that's like. We shouldn't do that to him."

Her gaze left him with a scoff. "Trust me, what I have with Yeray is not like that."

"What do you mean?"

"It's just different."

Samuel narrowed his eyes. "Do you even like him?"

"I do, I just - "

"Don't lie. Why are you with him?"

"Because...he's fun."

He snorted at the feeble excuse. "Fun? That's the only reason?"

"Yes. That's enough for me."

"Is it?" he was irritated with her statement

"Yeah, we're both young and we're just having fun. What else is there?"

If Samuel didn't know any better, he would've thought she was intentionally provoking him. What else is there?

Love. Passion. Us. What we have, what we feel for each other, his mind was almost screaming at her.

"Well, whatever it is, you have to end it. I mean, if you want this - us."

Carla was quiet for a moment, peering at him in a way that made his insides churn.

"You're the best person I know," she whispered.

Samuel's eyes lowered shyly, his heart skipping a beat at her praise. But he was just being decent, nothing more. Guilt still twisted his stomach, knowing the questionable things he'd done. Especially recently.

"No, I'm not, I'm - "

"Yes, you are," she said resolutely, "now please believe that Yeray and I are not what you think we are. Not to me, at least."

Samuel didn't get a chance to prompt her further as she nudged him forward and he didn't resist. Because Samuel was only human and the girl he was in love with was half naked and wet. He licked his lips and Carla smirked at the action, grazing his mouth teasingly.

Returning her soft kiss, Samuel felt their hands interlock- his fingers slotting through hers and he winced slightly from his still sore fist.

Carla glanced down in concern at his rapidly swelling knuckle, it was getting redder by the minute. "What happened?"

"I might have punched a locker," he said sheepishly.

"Why?"

"Well, it was either the locker or Valerio."

Carla tutted with a sigh. "Samuel, why would you do that? It's not his fault."

"Yes, it is."

"No, it's not, it was my decision. He only did what I asked."

"And if he hadn't, you would've never had the opportunity in the first place." Carla's eyes left his shamefully, it was the same look she had when she'd walked out of the bathroom this morning.

The truth was that it was on Samuel too. He'd provided the place for Valerio and Rebe to push drugs. The guilt prevented him from telling Carla that they'd used his house and it was eating him inside, even if he knew she might be understanding. But as he stared at her, she still looked drained and Samuel was too damn afraid to break the peaceful spell that'd been cast on them.

"Regardless, I can deal with my own shit," she said stubbornly, "and you definitely shouldn't go around punching lockers."

Samuel's lips quirked in amusement. "Sorry."

"You should be. I like your hands."

"Yeah?"

"Hmm," she said, playing with his fingers, "they're very nice and. . .skillful."

His heart jumped at the insinuation and he let out a low chuckle. "Really? That's nice to hear."

Carla's reaction was to slowly bring his bruised knuckle to her lips, peppering soft kisses across it. Samuel's eyes found hers intensely as she darted her tongue out and licked up the back of his index finger; till she finally took it in her mouth and sucked.

His body heat rose to an alarming level of arousal. Samuel closed his eyes, chest heaving, the sensations that burst over him, causing him to twitch in his underwear.

"Fuck," he breathed out, before his free hand took charge and ran itself through her hair, tugging on it gently so she would release his finger.

Samuel's lips pressed against hers with fervor need and Carla responded in kind, her tongue keeping up with the urgent movement of his.

And because every fiber of his being was chanting it. Samuel's mouth drew back, staying close, lips brushing hers. The words crawling incessantly under his skin until he couldn't stop them from being whispered against her.

"I love you."

Carla went rigid in his arms. And he mentally cursed himself, but he didn't regret saying it. What did she expect? Samuel couldn't keep it in any longer.

Carla pulled away stiffly. "Stop saying that."

"Why? It's the truth."

She rubbed her temples in distress. "No, it's not. You don't even know me."

Samuel gaped at her, how the fuck could she say that? Not only did she say he didn't know her, but she kept refusing to believe his feelings. And here Samuel thought the worst thing would've been her not saying it back.

"You're not actually serious, are you? I know you, Carla. In fact, I'm pretty sure I know you better than anyone."

And although his heart was in his throat with nerves, Samuel needed to say it again. To kill any doubts she had on the matter. "I'm in love with you."

Seeing her flinch from his words, physically hurt him. Samuel could feel the searing pain of her rejection, as she closed yet another door on him. She wasn't looking at him, and he didn't know if he should be thanking her for sparing him the mortification of having to look her in the eyes as she shut him down; or yell at her for crushing his heart without even looking as she did it. The strained silence was starting to choke him, Samuel weakly started to move; wanting to make his way out of the water - which now felt like it was scalding him.

"No, no, no," Carla said, grabbing his wrists, "don't leave like this, please."

"I should go." his voice was embarrassingly small.

"Samuel, you don't understand, I - " she looked almost frantic.

"It's all right, Carla." he tried to free himself from her clasp.

"No, no, it's not."

Samuel could see the agony on her face, and his resolve gave in, needing to comfort her. "It's okay."

"Fuck, stop saying that!"

Her exasperated tone shut him up momentarily as he waited for her to say something.

"It's not so easy for me to say it."

That should've hurt, but instead Samuel felt flickering hope flaring up inside him. That meant she felt it. She felt something for him, she just couldn't express it. And how pathetic was it, that it was enough for him to know that.

"Hey," Carla continued, her eyes pinning him to the spot, "let's make it a little quieter."

"What?"

"Let's quiet things down." Carla took a long deep breath and then she began to sink down; until he could only see her silhouette. Samuel's instincts took over, following her lead.

She was a vision under water, her hair floating around her, eyes as captivating as ever. Samuel swam towards her, both of them staring and unmoving.

A second later, their eyes closed and their foreheads touched. Samuel could sense the inescapable calm slowing down his hammering heart. They stayed down as long as they could, but oxygen became a necessity.

They resurfaced, their foreheads still connected, both gasping for air. They rested in the same position for a long time, trying to delay the inevitable end.

"It's getting late. You have to go," she said.

"I know."

"I'm sorry."

"I know."

Samuel pushed away from her, their eyes glued to one another as he tried to steadily get out of the pool.

He reached for his clothes, not caring that he was going to wear them while still wet. After Samuel was done, he looked back at the girl still in the pool one more time, her back to him. And he could feel the dark clouds emerging again over them as he hastily made his way out of her house.

_______________________________________________________

Samuel couldn't get past the fact that he was standing in Yeray's house. Carla's, too, if what he'd heard was true. Yeray bought her a fucking house.

Why was he here again?

The second Samuel'd arrived, he regretted it, but Guzman seemed more down than usual after Nadia and Samuel felt bad for the way he'd been treating him, so he stayed.

But Samuel also couldn't keep up a conversation with him, because his eyes seemed determined to find Carla. This was her party and she was no where to be found. A little later he was sauntering around the enormous mansion and he finally spotted her talking to Valerio.

"You've got to be fucking kidding me," he muttered angrily to himself, marching towards them. By the time he reached them, Valerio was walking away and Carla looked frustrated. She also looked fucking breathtaking, but that was beside the point.

"Hello."

Carla's head whipped in his direction, raising her eyebrows. "Samuel, you came."

"You did send an invitation."

"Yeah, I just didn't think you'd come."

"I wasn't going to."

"Okay, well," she said with a rehearsed smile, "make yourself at home. Have fun!"

"Why were you talking to Valerio?"

She didn't care enough to pretend anymore. "Relax, Samuel. I don't have anything."

Samuel did relax but he didn't like seeing her so restless.

"It'll get better," he said softly, wishing he could help her, "it'll get easier to resist, you won't always feel like this. You should go see someone and - "

Carla scoffed loudly. "Right. What do you know?"

"More than you, clearly," he retorted a little harshly. She was back to being cold, and it put him on edge. He was fucking sick of it.

Carla shook her head with a chuckle. "Correction, you think you know better."

"In this case, I do. Because right now, you actually think that drugs are gonna make your problems go away. It doesn't work like that and you know it."

"No." she sighed, looking away from him. "it doesn't make anything disappear. But it sure does make life a lot easier and way more fun."

"For a short amount of time and then you're left with the consequences."

"I'm okay with that," she said with indifference, "anyway, I have guests to entertain. Enjoy the party, Samuel."

He opened his mouth to to stop her from leaving, but nothing came out. Suddenly feeling watched, Samuel glanced around and saw Rebe glaring in his direction.

Seriously, why that fuck was he here? He should've stayed home.

As if on cue, Guzman stepped next go him. "Now you're the one in need of a drink."

"I always need a drink," Samuel replied, staring at Carla across the room, "right now, I need twenty."

"Well, Samu," Guzman said, throwing an arm over his shoulder, "I'm sure that can be arranged."

They were five drinks in, and Samuel still couldn't glance away from Carla as she walked around the party, trying to look like she didn't need her next fix like she needed her next breath.

"What's going on with Carla?" Guzman asked from beside him, his tone a bit concerned.

Samuel didn't know if he should tell him. Carla wouldn't like it, even if she pretended not to care what people think. It was private, she just needed to get help and she would be fine. The only reason he'd told Polo; because even if he wasn't the main reason Carla was using currently - the asshole deserved to be reminded of the weight of the pain he had inflicted.

"She's just been having a really tough time."

"Why? She's got a rich boyfriend. She's somehow gotten away with covering up a murder, seems like she doesn't - "

"Don't," Samuel bit out in warning, "you don't know her as well as you think you do."

"All right, sorry." Guzman was taken aback by his tone, showing both palms in surrender. "Listen, I don't think I'll ever be able to forgive her for what she'd done. But you're right, Carla and I haven't been close in a long time. She's definitely - changed."

Samuel's curiosity piqued, his mind racing to ask about Carla before he had gotten to know her. "What was she like?"

"I mean, she hasn't changed that much. She's always been wild, down for whatever. Smart, she recognized what she had and was always quick to take advantage of it. Since she was my sister's first friend, she was mine too."

Guzman let out a small laugh. "I used to have a crush on her."

"What, really?"

"A very small and brief one, years ago, yeah. To be fair, everybody had a crush on Carla."

Of course. Samuel didn't doubt it for a second. She was magnetic.

"We used to talk all the time." Guzman smiled in remembrance. "She helped me with girls, she actually helped me with Lu."

Samuel grinned, wondering what it would've been like if he had actually known her back then.

As though she knew they were talking about her, Carla's laughter rang through the air, making both Samuel and Guzman look toward the noise. She was dancing with Yeray, her back pressed against his chest. Samuel's heart pinched painfully and it must have shown on his face, because Guzman put a comforting hand on his shoulder.

"You really love her, don't you?"

Maybe it was the alcohol but Samuel felt no need to hide it. "Yes."

"Come on," Guzman said, standing up and motioning for him to follow, "let's get the rest of those twenty drinks in you."

And it didn't stop at twenty, he'd lost count at some point. Samuel had no idea how he actually managed to get home. The last thing he remembered was Carla dancing with Yeray and then his face was smashed into his pillow.

_______________________________________________________

Samuel wanted to rip his eyes out. This was probably the worst hangover in the history of his short life, and he was expected to sit through classes.

In the middle of his conversation with Guzman, he'd heard the commotion outside. Samuel couldn't really make out what was happening, but he saw Rebe in the middle of Polo and Valerio and instantly sprang to his feet.

"Why the hell are you defending him? He's the reason for what happened last night!" Polo yelled from the floor after Samuel had hit him a couple of times.

"I'm not defending him and what the fuck are you talking about?"

"Carla's in the hospital because of him! The bastard gave her drugs. Again!"

But Samuel didn't hear anything after Carla and hospital. His breath left him in a gust of panic. He froze in terror, heart pounding in his ears.

"What?"

"She overdosed and almost died drowning."

Stop. Stop talking, please. Samuel was going to pass out.

"Tell me." Samuel managed to grit out the demand through the crippling fear that had swept over his body, and Polo understood what he wanted to know.

"They said she's stable, but we can't see her right now."

And then Samuel's panic turned into blind rage as he lunged at Valerio.

"I told you to stay away from her!"

"Samu, stop! Please!" Rebe was pleading loudly. "Samuel! Stop, stop. It was me!"

He faltered mid-hit.

"What?" Samuel didn't recognize his own voice. It was eerily calm.

"I, I did it," Rebe stuttered, "I sold Carla the drugs last night. I'm sorry."

"You're sorry?" he could feel his entire body shaking.

"I - I was upset and I didn't know she would take all of it, that she'd actually over - "

"You didn't know!" Samuel snarled and she winced. "So it would've been okay to give it to her if she hadn't overdosed!"

"No, I - "

The principal's door opened, stopping Rebe in her tracks. Azucena looked down at the floor and they all followed her gaze. It seemed during the fight, Rebe had dropped a bag of drugs.

"What is this?" Azucena asked, looking at all of them.

Samuel didn't have time for this, he started to walk away.

"Where are you going?" Azucena asked, "I need to talk to everyone immediately!"

"You can expel me later," he replied, his feet speeding up.

"I have to go with him. Our friend, Carla . . ." Samuel could vaguely hear Guzman's voice from behind him as he sprinted outside.

________________________________________________________

Carla's father was staring at him and Samuel was staring right back. He was batshit crazy, if he actually thought that Samuel was going to leave. He'd been sitting in the hospital for the past hour. Guzman and Lu next to him. Yeray and Teodoro siting across from them, while Carla's mother was inside with her, having been the only one allowed to.

After a nurse came out and assured them again that Carla was doing much better and they could see her soon, Samuel felt like he could get up to get some water. He found Yeray standing in front of the vending machine and Samuel almost walked back to his seat, but he knew he needed to hydrate.

Samuel was taking a large gulp of water, when he noticed Yeray still standing behind him. "You want something?"

"I didn't know." it almost sounded like Yeray was talking to himself.

"Sorry?" Samuel asked, even though he really didn't want to speak with him.

"I thought she liked me, I didn't know he was forcing her to be with me."

And for the second time that day, Samuel's heart stopped.

"What did you just say?"

But Yeray was unable to answer, his lips trembling and he looked like he was about to cry. But Samuel didn't give a fuck how Yeray was feeling as he took a threatening step forward. "What did you mean?

And despite the fact that Samuel was already somewhat connecting the dots, he wasn't prepared for what came out of Yeray's mouth next.

Samuel was moving for Teodoro before Yeray was even finished talking, his veins lighting up with undeniable fury.

"You fucking asshole!" Samuel's bellow traveled through the hall, as everyone turned to look at him. Teodoro was standing, looking at his phone and when his gaze darted to him, Samuel could see the confusion in them.

"Your own daughter! What the fuck is wrong with you?" without hesitation, Samuel’s fist bashed him hard. And he could finally see realization dawning in Teodoro's eyes as he staggered back. Guzman and Lu were on Samuel in seconds, both trying to hold him back.

"Samu! What are you doing?" Guzman asked.

"Are you out of your mind?" Lu added incredulously.

Venom replaced the brief hint of remorse in Teodoro's eyes as he advanced on Samuel.

"I will end you, you dumb shit!" Teodoro promised, grabbing Samuel out of Guzman's grasp by the collar, before punching him and pushing him up against the wall. "You just signed your death warrant!"

Samuel growled, shoving him back with all his might. "You don't scare me, you disgusting, no good - "

"Hey, hey, break it up!"

Security had gathered around them and started pulling them apart. Actually, they were hauling Samuel away, as they checked on Teodoro.

"Are you okay, sir?" a security guard asked.

"Yes," Teodoro hissed, "throw him out."

"You don't have the right to do that!" Samuel shouted as another guard dragged him away.

"Stop. Don't make this worse for yourself, kid," the guard told Samuel almost kindly as he guided him outside.

"What the fuck was that, Samu?"

Samuel looked up to see that Guzman had followed him out, he was staring at him in complete bewilderment.

"He's a sick of piece of shit!"

"I know that but - "

"He forced Carla to be with Yeray as a part of a fucking contract for his wineries!"

"Holy shit..." Guzman stepped back in shock, his eyes wide.

Dizziness began to hit Samuel at an accelerating rate, this hell of a day was catching up to him all at once. He put a hand on the wall beside him, his head spinning.

"Samu? You okay?"

"All right." Lu had joined them, but Samuel could barely hear her. "I don't know if that was sheer insanity or - wait, what's wrong with him? He looks like he's gonna faint."

And then Samuel was hurling all of his stomach's content onto the ground.

Guzman was behind him, placing a hesitant hand on his back. Samuel kept coughing out everything inside him for a good five minutes. Maybe it was less, but it definitely felt like five.

The painful retching finally came to an end, Samuel slumped against the wall, utterly worn-out.

"Well, that was gross," Lu said, "but I'm sure it only helped. So, is one of you gonna explain what was that back there?"

"I'll tell you later," Guzman said.

"What, why? Just tell me."

"Later, Lu," Guzman insisted, "Samu, you need to go home and get some rest, man."

He couldn't, he had to see her. His anxiety was running high, winding him up so tight, he though he might throw up again.

"I have to see her," he said, his voice gravelly.

"You can forget about that now, genius," Lu said.

"He can't keep me out forever, he doesn't own the hosp - "

"No, he doesn't," Lu interrupted, "but he's still a very powerful, feared man, and you just royally pissed him off."

"I don't give a shit."

"Clearly." she rolled her eyes. "Guzman is right, even if there's a chance you get to see her, it's not now. Go home."

Samuel didn't care about their logic, his emotions were too strung and there was no way in hell he was leaving.

He wasn't there for her, that was all Samuel could think about. He hadn't been there when it all went down, he was too busy drowning his sorrow in alcohol. Guilt and regret clutched his heart.

"I'm staying," Samuel said with finality, moving away from the vomit at his feet to the next nearest wall and letting his body slide against it till he was seated on the ground.

"Okay," Guzman said, sitting down next to him.

"You don't have to."

"She's still my friend, Samu. I want to."

"All right, I'm going back inside," Lu said, turning around, "I'll keep you updated."

"Hi," a voice said a while later.

Samuel glanced up at Rebe, and quickly turned away. He had no idea how she wasn’t at school with Azucena, and he didn’t care to ask. He was still furious. She'd told him she was done, she'd promised. Carla almost died because of the drugs she’d provided.

"What are you guys doing out here? Why aren't you inside?"

When Samuel didn't answer, Guzman supplied, "It's a long story,"

"Uh, okay. Are visitors allowed yet?"

"No, not yet," Guzman told her.

"Leave, Rebeca," Samuel gritted.

"Samu - "

"Leave."

She took a deep breath. "No, I understand that you're mad, but I'm not gonna go."

Samuel wanted to say something back, but he was beyond exhausted. And as long as she didn't talk to him, he could ignore her presence. Samuel was a bit confused when instead of going inside, Rebe chose to sit down next him, she still made sure it was a few inches away. And so the three of them sat there, waiting.

Samuel shut his his eyes, his mind conjuring up images of Carla; smiling, talking, kissing him. And he could feel them trying desperately to ease the overwhelming dread and panic that had erupted within him.

#samucarla #carmuel #carla x samuel #samuel x carla #carla roson #samuel garcia #elite

[for-emilia]

Adore You.

you’re a saint, enjoy x

At the beginning of their relationship, not everything was easy sailing. Of course, Dele was a premier league footballer, playing for one of the biggest clubs week in week out with little to no break time. People always tease about how ‘football is a hobby, not a career’, which of course it is a hobby too, his first true love and passion in life, even if he wasn’t getting paid he’d still continue to play, but it was more demanding than people thought. Training practically every single day, 9am-2pm, sometimes even later, a strict diet to enhance his performance that he couldn’t slip from, a rigorous recovery routine after each match, travel to and from matches all over the world.. It was tough, but he wouldn’t change it for the world. But no matter how tough it was, he’d never complain. Especially not when the actual love of his life was a healthcare professional.

Emilia didn’t like to talk about it too much, thinking it was boring to hear about and that nobody would be interested but from their first meeting Dele was enamoured. He hadn’t pushed the first few times of meeting, sensing she didn’t want to waffle on about it for ages so he moved on with a “That's amazing, lucky patients getting a right hottie looking after them!” followed by a slap on the chest from Emilia. But he never stopped thinking about it until he prompted her to talk about it one night.

“So how was work?” Dele asked as always as she kicked her shoes off at his doorway. “Erm yeah, was alright,” Emilia mumbled back, winding her arms around his waist and lifting her head up for a kiss. “Alright bad? Or just alright?” he replied sensing the waver in her voice before walking her to collapse on the sofa with him. “Eh, just alright.. better now ‘m with you” she nuzzled her head into the dip of his shoulder.

After they’d made a mess of the kitchen trying to make fajitas together (most of it Dele’s fault of course), Dele laid in bed, shirt off joggers on, watching his gorgeous girlfriend do her thing after her shower in the bathroom. He thought she was the most beautiful creature on Earth, he could watch her scrunching various creams and gels into her hair, cleansing her face, moisturizing her gorgeous long legs.. all day long. She made the most mundane tasks look like a work of art in his eyes.

“Whachu lookin’ at, creep,” she side eyed him as she sat on the top of the toilet, rubbing moisturiser into her aching bruised feet. He didn’t reply, simply just blinked up at her and lightly chewed on his bottom lip in thought. Eventually she made her way over to the bed and climbed in, scissoring her legs in and out to feel the fresh sheets against her freshly shaved legs, making Dele copy her actions to make fun of her.

Once Emilia was tucked up and scrolling through the channels on the TV, he looked over to her and asked “will you tell me about your job?”.

“What do you mean? You know I’m a HCA, Del,” she furrowed her eyebrows as she scrolled quickly past How I Met Your Mother, finally settling on one of the old Harry Potter films playing. “No like.. Tell me about what you do, what your days are like, how you got into it..” he trailed off. “I’m genuinely interested, wanna know what you’re getting up to while I’m megging winksy,” he joked referencing the video he showed her earlier that he made the groundsman send him from the training ground CCTV.

So with some reluctance at first and a few more questions, she talked to him about what she did on a daily basis, shedding light on just how ruthless and hard her job was, but how rewarding it was at the same time. He listened for as long as she was willing to speak about it, laughing along at stories of her favourite patients and kissing her on the forehead as she described the harder parts. Dele knew it was a gruelling job but he didn’t realise the extent, the day in day out physical and emotional pain she went through. 

That night as she drifted asleep on his chest his heart was full like he’d not felt in a long time. He adored her, properly adored her. Dele couldn’t help but stay awake looking over her features.. her pretty long eyelashes, the curve of her cute nose, the plumpness of her lips, her beautiful wavy hair. She was the most inspiring, humble, beautiful person inside out. He thought she was a hero.

                                                               -

“Del.. Dele? Bamideleeeeee?” Emilia shouted through the house the next day as she got home. She knew he was already home from training from the various texts she’d received. “Dele?” she wondered again, looking on the sideboard for a note to say he’d gone out. 

“Hey, pretty girl,” he spoke out from the top of the stairs, making her jump slightly, “be down in two seconds, stay there.” She wasn’t sure what he was up to but she trusted him and stayed by the door, taking the moments rest to stretch out her muscles that’d been overworked all day. Suddenly her wrist was caught in his hand and he spun her around pulling her into him, instinctively giving her a few pecks.

“So how was work?” Dele smiled at her bringing his hand up to her cheek, rubbing his thumb over her cheek repeatedly. “Yeah, alright,” she smiled smally back and leaned into his touch. “Sorry I’m home la-” her words were cut off by Dele’s hand over her mouth which she softly bit at his fingers in response. “Don’t want to hear it.”

“Come with meeeee,” he sing-songed and walked her towards the kitchen where the table was laid out ready with a meal in foil containers in the middle. “What’s this Del? We can't have a takeaway, the nutritionists will kill you, silly boy,” Emilia stopped and turned to him, pulling a sour face. “Just sit down, silly girl,” Dele taunted back, “for lunch at Enfield we had this lovely noodle dish, I thought you’d really like it so I got the chefs to put the leftovers in a container for me to bring home.. Y’know I can't cook but means we don’t have to cook tonight.” 

They ate together, sharing stories of the day and laughing about various things that some of Emilia’s residents had said or jokes the lads had made in training. She was surprised at how observant Dele was, to know that she’d enjoy that dish and was thoughtful enough to bring it home for them after a long shift. “Thank you, handsome,” she kissed him as they dropped the containers in the bin on the way to the living room, tasting the soy sauce in his mouth as she kissed him. 

“Wait no, come upstairs, mi amor,” he smirked, she knew he was planning something but didn’t really care when he sounded so sexy speaking Spanish to her. “Today after training I went into town and got some bits and bobs.. Lie down on the bed I’m gonna give you a massage,” Emilia looked at him a little confused but mostly intrigued. “You’re gonna give me a massage, are you? Do you even know how to?” she questioned, receiving a laugh and a little eyebrow wiggle and a request to “strip for me, mamas.”

She couldn’t lie, she was impressed with his massaging capabilities, “should’ve been a masseuse, Del.” He’d put on one of their playlists, she was pretty sure it was one of their tens of sex playlists and rap music isn’t typically played during a massage but she’d not have it any other way, it was perfect. “Christ, you don't even make this much noise when I’m bloody going down on you let alone having a massage,” Dele teased knowing fine well it wasn’t entirely true. “Can’t help it, if you keep pressing down there it’ll click really lou-.. see,” she giggled when her bones cracked under his touch, “God it feels so good.”

After her massage they showered together, to get the oil off quicker of course, besides, Dele had his own point from earlier to prove wrong. And boy did he do just that. Soon enough, Dele resumed his place on the bed, ignoring Emilia’s complains of “you’ll make the sheets soggy” (“Lover, it’s my side of the bed, it’s me that’ll suffer” “Dele, I sleep on top of you, your side is OUR side, didn’t think of that did you, big brains”) in favour of watching her go on with her night routine.

“Where’s this come from?” his girlfriend questioned looking over to see Dele’s smile. “Well you were complaining the other day that your body moisturiser was running out but you needed to find a new one for whatever reason, so when Kate was at training today she recommended that one so I went and got it,” he smiled, walking into the bathroom and moving aside a few things, “I organised it all for you too.. There’s a few refills of your hair and skin stuff there as well, did a little inventory on your behalf this morning.” She rifled through the draw and saw that he had indeed rebought some of her favourite products in the biggest sizes so she didn’t run out. He’d also cleared out the draw and put the things to use nearest the front along with categorising them into skin, face and hair. “Oh and I talked to the physios after training and they’ve written down a few stretches for you to ease your back and legs a little bit after shifts.. thought it might help,” he scrunched up his nose and stepped back to look at her properly, worried her silence meant he’d stepped a line.

“Dele…” she spoke out with the softest look on her face, “why did you do that for me?”. He stood behind her and spun them to look in the mirror together. “Because you deserve to be looked after, you spend your life looking after everyone else and now it’s my turn to look after you, yeah?” he accentuated by looking away from the mirror and turning her around to look her dead in the eyes, “I just want to make your life easier, pretty girl, you deserve it.” She nuzzled her head into his shoulder in response, not really knowing what to say in response. 

“For the record, I also put new bed-sheets on and did the washing.. I know, I know, Dele Alli doing the washing, unheard of!” he made the joke so she didn’t have to, plonking her down on the bed and throwing a soft, warm t-shirt of his at her head. Her little giggle and smile let Dele know he did his job, all he ever wanted to do was make her smile, today and every day after that. 

As she fell asleep cuddled up on top of him that night he couldn’t help but take her all in again, she even looked a little bit lighter in her sleep, eyebrows held higher on her face, corners of her mouth turned up slightly, eyes not as scrunched up. She was a work of art, inside and out. Dele just wanted to make her feel as cared for as she made people in need feel every day, he properly adored her.

[myersesque]

just got back from watching birds of prey!! here’s some thoughts before i forget

(spoilers, obvi)

initially i found sionis kinda amusing but as the story went on he got progressively more disturbing and hateable and i FULLY laughed through his death scene

zsasz seemed to just be there for a good time and to stir shit (and bc he’s got a thing tm for sionis) and i was kinda bummed when he died if only because i wanted to see how he’d function without sionis there with him

i would lay my life down for huntress. her badassery + the awkward stammering/yelling when she tries to socialise = My Type apparently

cass is a living legend and i love her

the hyena being called bruce was fully unexpected (i whisper-yelled “bUD AND LOU???” when she went to buy him) but also the funniest shit ever

absolutely adored how they ignored leto-joker’s existence + used a comic-style joker in the animation at the beginning

also adored how briefly they skimmed over suicide squad (showing the odd flashback scene of harley in ace chemicals + talking abt the daddy’s little monster shirt, but nothing else that i remember)

you could ABSOLUTELY tell that women had prominent parts in this movie’s creation. harley was actually a 3-dimensional character rather than just walking sex appeal, the characters’ outfits were in-character and not just to make them look hotter, etc

every time sionis started raging and zsasz went to calm him down, tht one “chill ouuut stop screeeaming” vine came to mind bvhcjgbvcj

i want every single outfit harley wore in this movie. no exceptions. she has Style

renee being a lesbian was actually mentioned, although briefly!!! i fully missed the reference to harley’s bisexuality (ironic, as i’m a raging bi) but i’m glad it was there, too!!!

so like. did zsasz cut tallymarks on his face just to be extra orrr huvkgjbvcnhuj bc it looked like he had plenty of room on the rest of his body?

i also, admittedly, would wear all of sionis’ clothes. pretty sure i already own some of em.

his “black mask” mask??? was actually rlly cool-lookin??? that mask with that suit... hoooo sir if u weren’t such a hateable dick i’d probably try n kiss you

irredeemable villains are super fun

the wacky colourful animations and editing etc actually fit here, rather than feeling out of place like they did in suicide squad, bc like... it felt like less of a “look how cool and edgy” thing and more of a “this is fun and fits her personality” thing

the fight scenes were so cool??? that choreography... *chef kiss*

the music choices were on-point

the upbeat tone was a hell of a lot more interesting than DC’s tendency to grime and grunge. like... if ur villains and anti-heroes etc are gonna be so colourful and wacky, let them be colourful and wacky on-screen too??

HARLEY WAS ACTUALLY ALLOWED TO BE A PSYCHIATRIST. HARLEY FULLY PSYCHO-ANALYSED EVERYBODY SHE CAME ACROSS. HARLEY WAS RESPECTED AND ACKNOWLEDGED AS SMART AND STRONG RATHER THAN BEING BRUSHED OFF AS A DITZY BLONDE STEREOTYPE

i feel like this movie did strong women in the best way?? like,,, it didn’t feel as forced as other attempts have been (cough endgame cough)

actually it didn’t feel forced at all, to me. it felt perfectly fine and natural.

it was just super fun and funky and bright and i’m so glad DC has started making good movies so all my marvel-stan friends can stop judging me bvhjchbvhcnj

#mine #birds of prey #dceu #the fantabulous emancipation of one harley quinn

[piratefalls]

I couldn’t fix the stupid fucking “keep reading” on the original post” goddammit

--

I almost don’t want to add anything to this because the visual is just... *chef’s kiss*

--

After Max’s declaration everyone laughs, because there’s no way straight-laced Max surfs. They may have gotten him to relax over the last few years but there’s no way he gives up enough control of anything long enough to let the ocean carry him any-fucking-where. But the longer he stares, completely blank faced, the quieter the laughter gets until it eventually falls into stunned silence.

“No, really. What’s your hidden talent.”

Max doesn’t even turn to acknowledge whoever asked. “I surf.”

"You mean, like, surf the web?” Steve asks, thinking back to when he had Max search out that first pressing Chicago album for Cath.

“While I understand you mean that colloquially, Commander McGarrett, that is not what I meant, nor is doing such a particularly impressive talent.”

“I beg to differ,” mutters Jerry.

“Okay then,” Lou says, standing and walking over to the truck, grabbing the surfboard that’s leaning against the engine. “Show us.”

Max smiles. “I was asked to share my secret talent with the group, Captain Grover, not demonstrate it.”

And with that Max stands up, walks over to his bright yellow Camaro, and peels out of the small lot. The rest of the group sit there in silence.

After a few minutes, Danny pipes up. “I have to see it.”

“Me too.”

“Yep.”

“I don’t think I'll believe it even if I do see it.”

Everyone is so busy trying to formulate a plan to catch Max in the act that they never notice that Kono doesn’t say a thing.

--

They try inviting Max to go with them to the next team surf session but he begs off, something about a conference call or consultation or whatever. He uses a lot of big words none of them are trained to understand. Then it’s inviting him to Steve’s for a team cookout, attempting to get him juuuust this side of tipsy so maybe they can gently coerce him into the water. That fails because someone - probably Kono, everything’s a little fuzzy the next morning - suggests a game of Never Have I Ever and they all get spectacularly wasted. It eventually just devolves into trying to get Max in the water at all.

“You know,” Danny says one day when he and Steve are leaving the Palace to head to a crime scene. “I think Max is fucking with us. He’s fucking with us and he’s enjoying it, and Steve, I cannot tell you how much that irritates me.”

"You definitely could,” Steve replies.

It’s been weeks. Weeks of staking out Max’s place - Steve’s idea, obviously, because if he doesn’t get to stalk someone to sate his own curiosity at least once a month his right eye starts twitching - of  following him on his lunch breaks, his free time, his dates with Sabrina. It gets so involved, and they’re losing so much sleep over it, that eventually Jerry just makes an app for them where they can report their Max Sightings(tm) and try to work out a pattern in his movements.

Nothing. Zip. Zilch. Nada.

It’s Jerry who figures it out.

“I think we have a mole.” When all he’s met with are the exasperated stares of his teammates, he continues. “Hear me out. I was looking at the data from the Maximum Sightings app --”

“Still not a good name,” Danny says.

“--and, after using every algorithm I could think of and a few I definitely have no knowledge of,” he looks around the room shiftily. “I realized something didn’t make sense. You see, some of these sightings don’t work. As far as we know Max has never been to these areas, has never had need to be in these areas. No family, no friends, not even his dentist--”

“You know where his dentist is?”

Jerry waves Lou off. “Irrelevant. Once you take those data out, though, you get...this.” A map pops up on the computer table in front of them, a number of concentric circles surrounding the general vicinity of the North Shore. An area someone they know really likes to go when they want to surf but avoid the tourists.

“I’m taking away her rifle.” Steve shoves back from the table and heads for the door. “Forever.”

--

“Nice of you to finally catch on,” Kono says as the team approaches her. A good number of people are on the beach, a few out in the water, but it’s not crowded like most places are this time of day. “Some investigators you are.”

“Why?”

Kono smiles. “Because I could?”

A few of them nod in reluctant agreement. They probably would have done the same thing if given the chance to drive everyone else crazy for their own entertainment.

“Anyway, you’re not here for me,” she says, and points out to the sea.

Max is the picture of content on his board, paddling out to meet the next wave coming in. He pops up like he’s been doing it his whole life, knees bent and arms out, body relaxed as he lets the ocean guide him back to shore. He’s almost unrecognizable without his usual stoicism.

“Huh,” Danny says.

“That about sums it up,” Lou replies.

Kono turns back to the team, arms crossed over her chest, one eyebrow raised. “You guys done following him around now?”

A chorus of muttered concessions is all she gets in response. Confident they’ve all been properly chastised, she sends them back to headquarters. She takes a second to look back at Max catching one last wave before he comes in for the day, a little bummed that this is no longer their little secret. She’s sure they’ll find some other thing to lord over the team’s head, another secret to drive them all crazy, but until then it’s business as usual.

In the meantime, they have real mysteries to solve.

#kelly watches h50 #my fic #max bergman #Hawaii five-0 #prompt