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shina913 · 2 years

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Art Murmur | KNJ

❃ Festivaled Away: Summer Nights

Hosted by @bangtanbathhouse

⤞ Ticket: Namjooning ⤞ Main event: First Date ⤞ Games: Overstimulation; fingering; size kink

Pairing: Camp Coordinator!Namjoon x fem!reader; the hyung line also makes a brief appearance

Genre: Friends to lovers; fluff; smut

Rating: 18+

Summary: You and Namjoon have worked together for years. You've harbored secret crushes on each other for a long time but neither of you have had the courage to take the plunge. One summer, you decided that you've circled each other long enough.

Word count: 4,393K

Warnings: cussing; awkward flirting; some pining/light angst; clit play; breast play; BDE!Namjoon; fingering; oral (M-receiving briefly); dirty talk; protected sex; some manhandling; brief cuddling...(I think that's it?)

A/N: I apologize in advance...I was struggling a bit while writing Coquet 9 and took a break from it. And then Hobi's listening party at Hybe happened...aaaaand I just could not get over images of Namjoon so...this happened.😬 I stg, I love all OT7 but as my lovely betas @deepseavibez and @internetjunkdrawer pointed out--I'm always extra when it comes to my faves (Excuse me, ma'am...your bias is showing)😋

Also, Art Murmur is an actual event close to where I work. I just embellished on some of the details. Their date is also loosely inspired by an episode of Insecure from Season 4 where Lawrence and Issa walk through a local street art festival. I swear...the visuals and general cinematography on that episode are un-fucking-believable!

Anyway, I'll shut up now. Thanks to Madame Sophie @kookskingdom for the prompts! Enjoy!

“Thank you! You guys take care!” You wave at the last kid who gets picked up from afternoon care at day-camp.

“Damn, I’m hella tired already,” Yoongi says.

“You’re always tired,” You chuckle at him while you put away the tablets from the reception area to charge them at the office.

“Another summer for the books,” he says, rubbing his eyes. He nods and says goodbye to the younger counselors who clock out. You do the same, smiling as you bid them goodbye, telling them that you’ll see them next year.

“Hey!” Jin, your program director greets you. Yoongi automatically sits up. “Hey, boss,” he says, suddenly being all formal.

Jin laughs out loud. “I told you to stop calling me that. We all used to work together at some point,” he says.

“Yeah, but you’re the head honcho now,” you remarked, referring to Jin’s promotion after your previous program director retired.

“It still feels weird to me,” Jin comments. “Anyway, I’m just doing my rounds. I got back from Namjoon’s site and thought I’d check on you guys to make sure that there were no incidents today?”

“Nothing huge,” you said. “There were a couple of kids from the middle school age group who got into it a bit, but nothing that I couldn’t handle. Parents were called; reports were typed up and signed. Nothing like a bit of excitement on the last day of the program.” You shrugged. All in a day’s work.

“Okay, good. Are you guys headed to the field for the year-end party?”

“Not yet,” you say.

“Yes,” Yoongi answers. You turn your head sideways and look at him incredulously. “What? He asked! I’ve been waiting for this day to end,” He says, giving you an equally incredulous expression. Also, he was excited to be able to have a legally-sanctioned drink at the premises.

You turned back to Jin, who was laughing, taking it all in stride. “Did you need anything before we closed up?” You asked.

“No, but Namjoon and Hoseok are on their way down here soon. They wrapped up their ‘afternoon care’ early since all of their kids got picked up on time.”

Just then, Namjoon and Hoseok walk through the doors of your facility. You and Namjoon smile at each other.

God, will you ever tire of those dimples? The answer is a quick but very firm ‘no.’

Namjoon is your counterpart at a different summer day camp location within the city. He was a site coordinator just like you, supervising camp counselors who help organize and facilitate youth group activities not just in the summer but all throughout the year.

You all exchange polite pleasantries. Hoseok goes to ask Yoongi about tonight’s festivities while Namjoon talks to Jin about completing the end-of-season report for his site.

When Hoseok turns to you, you offer to walk him to your storage closet to show him where you kept the supplies for tonight’s party.

“It’s cool, YN!” He waved you off. “I’m sure Yoongi and I can manage it,” Hoseok says with a wink. You made the mistake of drunkenly confessing to both of them years ago that you had a massive crush on Namjoon during a random happy hour. They haven’t stopped teasing you about it since.

Jin followed closely behind to make sure that there was enough food and utensils for his staff.

“So–are you uh…coming tonight?” Namjoon asks you.

“Yeah. A-are you?”

He nodded. This was the first time that either of you were coming to an end-of-year party where you were both single–or so you heard, based on Hoseok’s texts. It brought in a whole other layer of excitement to tonight’s celebration.

You stared at each other in silence until you heard Jin, Yoongi, with Hoseok huffing as he rolled a cart filled with equipment.

“Yah! I told you I’m not very physically able,” Yoongi argues. “Why didn’t you just take the big, beefy man to grab the stuff from the top shelf?”

Namjoon chuckled to himself. “Guess that’s my queue to leave,” he says. “I uh…hope we can hook up tonight–I mean–” he caught himself immediately, your eyes widened in shock.

“I meant ‘hang out’! I hope we can hang out tonight,” he grinned awkwardly as he rushed to help Hoseok with the cart.

Once he was out of earshot, Yoongi sidled up to you. “Mm-hmm–I think he actually meant the first thing. You know…when you think about it enough times, it just spills out!”

You give him a playful shove, reminding him that you still had to close out the system so you could file away your paperwork and finish out the year.

******

The party was in full swing. You made small talk with the rest of the staff, making sure that you made your social rounds before approaching Namjoon and Hoseok, who were hanging out by one of the firepits and having an animated conversation.

Namjoon sees you advancing towards them and he says something to Hoseok under his breath. Hoseok gives him a confused look until he sees you stop right where they were standing.

“Hey guys,” you greet them both with a smile.

“Hi and bye, YN. I have to go,” Hoseok says.

“Oh,” you said with a frown. “W-where are you going?”

“Uhh…I’m still trying to figure that part out but–I’ll catch you guys later.” He says before walking away. It wasn’t long before he found a friend from another site and started to chat them up.

“So–how was your summer?” Namjoon asks.

“Uhm–it went well, I think. Not many issues as in the past. How ‘bout you?”

“It was good. I have some staff leaving after this year,” he says sadly.

“Oh, no–I’m sorry to hear that. I know how difficult it is to find good people who are trustworthy.”

He nods in earnest.

Afterwards, an awkward silence falls between you two. You’re both usually chatty with each other at work or at off-site get-togethers. It was all very casual…but you were also typically around other friends or coworkers.

He finally decides to break the tension. “Uhm, so…I read somewhere that Jupiter and Saturn are supposed to be perfectly visible tonight.” He tilts his head back to stare up at the sky, searching.

You mimic his action for a bit trying to look where he is but you’re distracted by his neck. It’s so subtle but you catch a freckle right at the base of the left side of his neck–somewhere above his collarbone. That was a new discovery for you. He typically wore hoodies and jackets–and if he wore t-shirts during the summer, you rarely saw him anyway since the summers were always busy for both of you.

And here you thought you’d already familiarized yourself with all of his beauty marks. From the trio that sat atop of his left cheekbone, going down to the one right above his jaw…and your favorite one—right below the curve of his lower lip.

If you looked long enough, you’d find that you’d have your own little Namjoon-constellation. You thought about tracing the pattern…with your tongue.

“Do you want some more?”

“Uh, what?” You shook your dirty thoughts away.

“I asked if you wanted a s’more?” He pointed to the table that contained a few metal skewers, bags of marshmallows, chocolate bars, and graham crackers.

Flustered, you answered, “Oh—uhm, no, thank you. I’m fine,” you blubbered.

He grinned. “You know, there’s been something I’ve been meaning to say to you for a while.”

Your curiosity was piqued. “Oh?”

“Yeah. It’s something I’ve been wanting to say since that first day we did summer camp orientation.”

Now you were really interested. “And?”

“Just…how much I admire you. I thought it was really cool how you have this way with kids–like, you just have endless enthusiasm and patience even though you’d seen whatever it was that they were showing you hundreds of times already and still be really sincere about it. I don’t know how you do it.” He shoved his hands in his pockets and started to rock back on his heels. You thought about how ironic it was that he was being all bashful after singing your praises.

“You also motivate your staff really well–I mean…except for, maybe, Yoongi-hyung. But he doesn’t count since he’s an old-timer,” he chuckled. “There’s just that mutual respect there.”

You smiled at that. “Well…game recognize game,” you said, staring straight at him. “You have to tell me how you can command a room with just one look. I still have trouble with that sometimes because…let’s face it, some kids are just little shits.” He laughed, nodding in agreement with you.

“You’re also really creative with your programming. I don’t know how you come up with these enrichment activities and field trips. It’s hard to keep kids engaged these days.”

“Well, it also helps that I get to plan activities around things that I personally like to do…but, you know…on the city’s dime,” he smiles mischievously, before following it up with, “Don’t tell Jin-hyung!”

You laughed. “Your secret is safe with me.”

He chuckled softly. “Anyway, I didn’t think I ever had a shot with you.”

Your brows lifted in shock at his sudden confession. “W-what?”

He snorted. “What? I’ve always had a crush on you.” He says nonchalantly.

That stopped you dead in your tracks. You look at him wide-eyed.

You both got your start as junior camp counselors several summers ago. You trained together and worked at the same site for a bit until you both ended up becoming full-time employees for the city’s parks and recreation services.

You’ve always had a massive crush on him, too. How could you not? He was tall and good-looking. And when you got to know him better as you worked together, you found him to be even more attractive.

But…it seemed like you never really got the chance to get together. He went away for college in a different city while you stayed local. When he got back, he had a girlfriend. And when they broke up, you started seeing someone–until things didn’t work out. But then he started seeing someone else, and vice versa. The angsty cycle continued.

Your timing always seemed off. Until now.

“Uhm, say that again?”

He gave you a shy smile. “Ah, c’mon, YN. Don’t embarrass me like that.”

“I’m not, I swear! I’m just…in shock here. Give me a minute.” You turned away, mentally fanning yourself at his confession.

He groaned softly, worrying that he had ruined a good thing. “Sorry, is that weird? Are you getting all weird on me now? Shit, that wasn’t my intention. I shouldn’t have said anything,” he says all of it in a panic.

You started to laugh, turning your attention back to him. “Oh man…”

“What? I’m right, aren’t I? I knew it,” he says, shaking his head. “Such a dumbass,” he says under his breath.

When you calmed down, you sighed. “Oh, Namjoon–you couldn’t be more wrong if you tried,” you tell him. His head did a subtle bob–like whiplash, almost. He stared at you, as if trying to crack a code. When it came to him, his face lit up and a wide smile curved his mouth.

That smile did many things to you. You looked away again, unable to handle the butterflies in the pit of your stomach that have been slowly building up to a swarm since you sidled up to him tonight.

“Wait, so this whole time, I could have just asked you out?”

You smiled at him. “I mean…I had hoped you would at some point? But our timing was just terrible, I guess.”

He scoffed and looked down at his shoes. “Damn…I am such a moron,” he chuckled.

You gave him a small smile and shrugged your shoulders. “No time like the present, right?”

He straightened out and smiled warmly at you, regaining his composure once more. “You’re absolutely right. So, YN—would you like—“

“Yes,” you say immediately. You couldn’t contain your excitement.

“I…was going to ask if you would like a s’more.” His smile was teasing. You instantly smack him playfully on his chest, making him double over in laughter.

“I’m sorry,” he says as you both calmed down from your giggles. “Okay, seriously. Would you like to go out with me?”

You rolled your eyes and gave him the same answer. “Yes,” you say softly.

******

He met you at your place around 6PM on a Saturday, and you both took a rideshare to grab dinner at the food truck pod in the city–since neither of you could make up your mind about what you craved for. Although…you had other ideas about what you were craving for, the variety of cuisines sated both your appetites for now.

Your date was fairly chill. It felt awkward at first because you typically went out with your coworkers or common friends. But it didn’t take long before you both settled in. Conversation and jokes flowed naturally. You were friends after all.

After dinner, you headed over to a local street festival event called the Art Murmur, held on the first weekend of every month. A few blocks would be closed off by the city to make room for independent, local artists and merchants to not only showcase their work but to connect with the community as well. Namjoon has always waxed poetic about his love for local art and tried to support when he could.

You turned a corner and the place was buzzing with excitement. The narrow streets were adorned with string lights and colorful streamers above. Each booth had music playing and friendly faces ready and willing to talk about their work to anybody who would approach.

“I remember when this was all super sparse,” he remarked. “They used to have this event in a small banquet hall but word-of-mouth eventually got the city’s attention and full support.”

“That’s really great to hear. I love how there’s so much hidden talent right in our backyard.”

“I couldn’t agree more!”

You slowed to an artist’s booth that used mixed media on their work. One piece in particular caught your eye–a beautiful rendering of all the bridges from your locality.

“You like that one?” He asks you quietly.

“I do. I’ve never seen our bridges portrayed like this. I guess–living here for so long, you think of bridges as one more path of inconvenience to take since our area is so broken up and places are so far.” Also, rising bridge toll fees were just ridiculous. “But, bridges are a necessity, right? The purpose is connection–not just for locations but between people as well. Don’t you think so?”

You glanced sideways at him to find him staring at you intently…in awe.

It happened too quickly but even if he slowed down, you knew you wouldn’t dare stop it.

His lips felt plush, soft. Urging though not in a hurry. You don’t know how long you had imagined or hoped for this moment. Just as you had pictured before–it took your breath away.

“Uh–hey guys, were you interested in this piece?”

You both pull away, slightly embarrassed when the artist interrupts your brief makeout session in front of his art. You cleared your throats and tried to compose yourselves in front of this complete stranger.

“How much for this one?” Namjoon asked.

The artist names his price and while you see Namjoon pull his wallet out, you immediately stop him. He waves you off.

“Shush and let me get my girl a gift,” he says to you.

Your eyes widen at his sudden confidence. “Ooh–already?” You ask playfully while he hands the cash over to the artist, who excuses himself to wrap up the piece for you.

“I thought that was already a foregone conclusion?”

All you give him is a smile in response. It wasn’t like you were going to protest.

******

You invite him back to your place to hang out more since your roommate had conveniently also made plans to be out tonight. It was all very relaxed and chill at first but the energy in the air was still palpable. Pretty soon, you took things back into your bedroom since you couldn’t keep your hands off each other.

His fingers cupped your nape, tilting your head back at an angle that he wanted to deepen the kiss. You moaned when you felt his tongue swirl around your mouth.

He pulls away briefly. “Holy shit–I can’t believe I’m actually kissing you on your bed,” he said in a rush before he sealed his mouth over yours again.

“How do you think I feel?” you breathed out.

You caught a flash of that dimple before you pulled his face closer to yours to kiss him again.

One of his hands slid around to cup your nape, while the other moved downward to your hip, giving it a squeeze. His touch made you hot in an instant, sending goosebumps racing across your skin.

Inhaling deeply, you breathed him in. He smelled so good–a hint of cologne? Or was it soap? Anytime you were in close proximity with him, whether it was facilitating a group activity, gathering supplies for your sites, or plainly having a conversation with him, his scent was one of the many things about him that made you just a little unsteady on your feet.

Your body stirred, recognizing Namjoon as the one thing it desperately wanted. You reached up and pushed your fingers through the silky dark strands and tugged.

He pulls away briefly and brushes loose strands of hair off your face, then his gaze drifted down to where his other hand was gliding up your thigh and past the hem of your skirt. You gasp softly when he makes contact with your panties. Pushing them to the side, he slipped a finger carefully into you.

Your eyes shut at the sensation, building up your hunger even further.

“I want to feel you,” you say to him..

His mouth, that wickedly sexy mouth that could drive you insane, curved into a smug smile. “Do you, now?”

You wrenched away from his skilled finger and stretched onto your mattress, knowing it would entice him. When he growled low in his throat, you returned a smug smile of your own.

Catching you behind the knee, he pushed your leg up and to the side, riding your skirt up, sliding your panties down your legs.

He licked his lips. “You don’t know how long I dreamed of this…how many times I envisioned this in my head.”

You realized then that you would be sharing more moments like this moving forward, and you wanted them. “You still have too many clothes on.”

With a smirk, Namjoon straightened up to pull his shirt off and tossed it on the floor. When he went to work on the buttons of his jeans, you pushed up onto your elbows to watch.

A low hum of pleasure escaped you.

Namjoon paused, his brow lifting. He had that gleam in his eye that made your legs shift restlessly. He had such an understated sexiness that you silently vowed to acknowledge and show more appreciation for.

“Don’t stop,” you almost whined.

“I love when you look at me like that.”

You caught your lower lip between your teeth. He always talked about how he recently got into working out in the last year–and clearly, his hard work was paying off. His golden skin stretched over peaks and valleys of muscle. You fought the urge to run your fingertips over every inch of him...to lick him like your favorite dessert...make him feel how much you wanted him.

“Oh my god, you’re so hot,” you wondered aloud.

“You don’t look so bad yourself.” He sealed his mouth over yours, his tongue licking and gliding.

Greedily, your hands ran all over his chest, shoulders, and abs, tracing every plane and groove. He couldn’t help but chuckle softly into your mouth as you apparently grazed over a spot where he was ticklish. “Sorry–if you can’t tell, I have also fantasized about this way too many times,” you breathed. “I just–” You were at a loss as you ogled at his body.

“I’m on that sexual-frustration workout. Since I couldn’t have you then, I just spent a lot of time at the gym…plus, the wet dreams were killing me.” He caught your wrist, guiding your hand past his waistband to cup his straining hardon.

Well, that certainly took care of your lingering questions about what he’s been hiding underneath those shorts that he frequently wore to work.

"Well, I'm here now," you smiled at him. He tugged at your hair, his fingers sifting through it. Your eyelids grow heavy, senses hyper-focused on the desire radiating off him. Desire for you.

You fumbled with the zipper on his jeans, pushing the halves aside to discover black boxer briefs. He was hard and ready, the tip peeking above the waistband. Precum pooling, your mouth watered–beckoning you to push the elastic past his hips.

You wanted him inside you...now.

You wrapped your hands around his length and stroked, it made you hot and wet as he was. Your pussy was slick, clenching at nothing, aching to be filled by him. Leaning forward and dipping your head, you stuck your tongue out and tasted him.

He hissed through his teeth, cursing under his breath. He reaches down at his back pocket to retrieve a condom, reluctantly moving himself away from your greedy mouth.

“Next time. For now, I need to be inside you,” he muttered, grabbing you by the waist and flipping you around, folding you face down over the edge of the bed.

Shoving your skirt past your hips, he cupped the back of your knee in his hand and pushed your legs apart to open you up. “I’m not sure if I can hold back so…I’ll apologize in advance,” he said huskily. His knuckle brushed against your folds, and a shiver ran down your spine.

You felt his warm skin covering your back, his hands pushing underneath and past your bra to cup your breasts. He gave your ass a firm squeeze before he pushed himself right in between.

You moaned and squeezed your eyes shut, relishing the feeling.

“Fuck, YN,” he ground out between clenched teeth, withdrawing and pushing deeper. Slow, easy thrusts that worked himself into you with every lunge. He groaned and gripped your circling hips, holding you down as he fucked his way deeper. “You feel so good.”

Your fingers clawed at the comforter. Your eyes opened blindly, your lips parted to fill your lungs with air since he kept knocking the wind out of you at every thrust. You fought against his steady hold, wanting him harder, faster. Then, you caught movement in the corner of your eye and saw yourself reflected in the full-length mirror that you had next to your closet.

Your walls contracted around him in response, trying to pull him into where you needed him. Namjoon’s head turned to follow your gaze and he stilled, taking in the sight of him hunched over you.

The image looked straight out of a porno. You, pinned and looking fully clothed, bare ass up in the air; and Namjoon’s abdomen tightening with the force of a thrust, his biceps flexing from the kneading of your breasts, his chest glistening with a fine layer of sweat.

His mouth curved mischievously. “You like watching me fuck you?”

To prove it, he withdrew and thrust again, his entire body tightening as he sank further into you. You whimpered. Your walls sucked greedily at him, your nipples tightened painfully against his palms.

“Oh, yeah, you do,” he purred in that low, devilish tone.

Your eyes stung with tears when your orgasm hit, sucking the air out of your lungs, causing spots in your eyes–blurring your vision. A long, drawn out moan escaped from your mouth–a mix of pleasure, relief…maybe even some gratitude?

Namjoon growled and lost control–just as he had warned you earlier. Fucking you hard and fast, surging deep, cursing under his breath. He came, bridging your orgasm with ragged groans as his body shook.

You couldn’t see, couldn’t think. Nails raked across the sheets, instinctively trying to pull you away from the flood of sensation, but he kept his firm grip on you while his hips continued to slowly pump, emptying himself into you.

He slowly pulled out while you collapsed bonelessly onto your bed. After he discards the condom you feel the mattress dip as he draws you close to him.

“Holy shit,” he finally managed as you both came down from your high.

Holy shit was right.

After a few deep breaths, your heartbeat finally steadies. “So, what you’re telling me…is that—we could have been doing that this whole time?” You ask jokingly.

His laugh was husky from his orgasm. He held you for a while, his fingers sifting through your hair and gliding gently down your arm.

“Like you said, right? No time like the present.” He pressed his forehead against yours and you both grinned. He kissed you again.

You tilted your head to deepen the kiss. Licking into his mouth, teasing him. It wasn’t long before he started to grind his hips into you, making you all achy and wet once more.

He groaned as he pulled away. “How much time do we have left before your roommate gets back?”

“Not long but she knows that I’ve wanted this for a while. She told me that she can always put headphones on if we get too loud.” You answer him quickly before kissing him again. You’ve annoyed your roommate to no end, talking about Namjoon and how you wished the stars would align already and that you’d get together at some point.

When you told her that you had a date with him tonight and planned on bringing him back to your place, her only response was, ‘Is two hours enough?’

His laugh reverberated against your mouth and chest. “Alright well—next time we’ll go to my place. We can keep making up for lost time and you can be as loud as you want.”

“Oh my god, Joooon,” you all but moaned and bit your lower lip in anticipation.

He hummed. “Keep saying my name…exactly like that.”

You’ve reached the end! Thank you so much for reading!

If you loved it, please comment, reblog, or send me feedback! 📩. I love hearing from readers! If you didn’t like it so much, I would still like to hear about it. Help me become a better writer! 💜

Tagging my Namjoon hoes: @internetjunkdrawer @deepseavibez @itdoesntmatterwhy

#namjoon fanfic #namjoon x reader #namjoon x you #namjoon smut #namjoon #kim namjoon #bts smut #bts kim namjoon #bts namjoon #bts rm #knj smut #artmurmur x knj

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battyaboutbooksreviews · 2 months

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🦇 Perfect on Paper Book Review 🦇

❓ #QOTD What's the best advice you've ever received or given? ❓ 🦇 High school junior Darcy Phillips has a secret identity as the relationship advice expert behind Locker 89. Leave a letter along with $10 and she'll provide the perfect solution to your relationship woes. So far, she hasn't been caught...that is, until Alexander Brougham catches her collecting letters. He'll keep her secret...if she can fix his relationship post-break-up, that is. Can Darcy help Brougham win his girlfriend back (without strangling the entitled, rich, yummy-Australian-accent-slinging swimmer) in the process?

💜 Perfect on Paper was nominated for a Goodreads Choice Award (Best Young Adult Fiction - 2021) and it's no wonder. This was the exact book bisexual baby me needed a decade ago. Though I've read a multitude of books featuring bisexual FMCs, Sophie Gonzales is the first to capture the authenticity of internalized biphobia. I'll admit I was sheltered enough that it took me a while to realize bi was even an option for me. Bisexual erasure didn't help; once I self-identified, I was given the oh-so-cliche, "that's not real," and "it's just a phase." Bitch, I'm a moon goddess; I'm in a new phase every day of my life. ANYWAY. Darcy is authentic in her concern that a crush over a guy invalidates her bi-ness. The Queer & Questioning Club scene where Darcy's community validates her was everything (and truly got me misty-eyed).

💜 The advice column aspect of the story was brilliant. Darcy's letters are written in a tone that's patient and empathetic yet informative and encouraging. She'd obviously done her research and it shows, but you see her mentally unravel the moment there's personal bias and it's BEAUTIFUL. Darcy isn't perfect. She's a high schooler, still figuring herself out. Yes, she's flawed, but she's also self-aware, willing to grow and change and take her own advice (or the advice she gets from her AMAZING trans big sister, who I adored).

💜 While this is a queer YA romance, there are so many layers beyond that. There's a mixed bag of diversity and personal trauma (and with that, potential for growth) to explore.

💙 The story DID take a minute to pick up speed, so the beginning left me waiting for a catalyst for momentum. I've said it before and I'll say it again: I'm no a fan of the miscommunication trope. HOWEVER, it does fit here, and proves how easily a tiny moment of misunderstanding can completely alter the course of a friendship. I did have to put the book down at one point, when Darcy's best friend outs her (I was super frustrated on Darcy's behalf because that betrayal was intense). I was disappointed that no one stepped forward and THANKED Darcy for her advice when she was getting attacked as the person behind Locker 89. People were upset BEFORE their letters were taken, but no one thanked Darcy until LONG after the situation cooled. Given Darcy's self-proclaimed success rate (was there a mention of HOW she knew she was successful, beyond the lack of refunds?), I expected a lot more praise for her abilities beyond one person.

🦇 Recommended to fans of Leah on the Offbeat and Imogen, Obviously, with a hint of To All the Boys I've Loved Before and Netflix's Sex Education.

✨ The Vibes ✨ 💌 Bisexual FMC (w/ Internalized Biphobia) 💌 Queer Young Adult Rom-Com 💌 Lots of Rep 💌 Hate-to-Love 💌 Friends to Lovers 💌 POC Sapphic Side Ship

💬 Quotes ❝ "Do you think there’s a chance that [...] you’re intellectualizing things so you don’t have to, you know, feel them?" ❞ ❝ I was sitting in the space between a sound and its echo. Brougham had asked a question, and I had to answer it. It was that, or keep dreaming about love, and working toward helping others find it, while never letting myself risk it. ❞ ❝ In some ways, we mirrored each other. We shared cracks in complementary places. ❞ ❝ Bi people are part of the queer community, and their identity does not change depending on who, if anyone, they happen to have feelings for or date at any given moment. ❞

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hopepaigeturner · 7 months

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An Offer from An Avid Reader: Eloise's Storyline

So, I’ve touched upon this before, but Eloise will be another significant storyline within S4. Primarily because she can push along bigger plot points, but also because I think S5 will be her season.

I’ve touched upon my hopes for Eloise, her character development and her season here and here—go check them out if you want. But this post is going to be delving into the specifics of Eloise’s character arc in S4.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

From talking to doing.

This season I wish for Eloise to do something. Now, whether this is taking up Whistledown from Penelope (which I’m not 100% about) or starting her own column—that is up to the S3 writers. But I would like her to do something.

My idea is that she starts doing a column, a little more political than Whistledown, but along those lines. Why? Because it works. Penelope showed that it was a successful model to grab people’s attention—so why wouldn’t Eloise be able to achieve the same thing? Surely Penelope showed that this is the only successful way to get your voice heard?

Expect that Eloise is not Penelope, so while Whistledown was very popular, Eloise’s will be less so. It’s not a complete failure but everyone compares it to Whistledown in the negative.

And ofcourse it is not as good as Penelope’s! Opinion columns were the best way for Penelope to express herself and her talent. Eloise is not Penelope; she needs to find her own writing form.

Consequently, throughout the season we get Eloise running around Bloomsbury with a very faithful footman and her slightly exasperated ladies’ maid—Sophie.

Links with other storylines:

Eloise will be in a prime position to be the one who publishes the servant scandal that Whistledown did in the book.

The trios hijinks around London can set up the scene where Sophie almost gets spotted by Araminta…which leads to her panic attack…which leads to Benedict helping her…which lead to that sofa scene.

By the end of the season Eloise has matured in her writing, realising that she should do what she wants to do, not what everyone else does. And this leads her to submit the manuscript of her novel to a certain publishing house that is run by a plant-loving herbologist…

Feminist Education:

In this season Eloise will learn the true plight of working-class women and how they have even less power than herself.

She will also come to understand a fundamental truth of all justice seeking movements; justice movements should be constructed based upon what the oppressed want, not what their more privileged counterparts assume they wish for. As Sophie shall say;

“You have passion, you have the mind…you just need the heart, Eloise.”

Scenes/Plot:

The Lady in the Black Veil scenes

Sophie talking back/truth talking to Eloise

Episode 4: Eloise becomes a maid for the day and learns about needing empathy.

Eloise publishing the servant scandal.

Link with other storylines:

Sets up/teaches her skills for empathy, ready for Phillip in her season. More here.

A key avenue to Eloise's softening this season.

Gradually eroding self-esteem and isolation.

This is the season where Eloise starts feeling ‘left behind’, isolated and useless. I like how in past seasons we have seen flickers of how, yes, Eloise has distaste for the ton—but she still feels an overwhelming pressure to succeed in it.

All her sisters have been a success in the marriage mart, a force compounded in this season by Francesca’s love-match to an Earl. Her mother continually misunderstands her, (even though she tries quite hard) and even heightens Eloise’s shame and insecurities. And the pressure increases because Francesca has a love-match so there is only Eloise and Benedict left. I think we can all guess who Violet would focus on more…

Further, Eloise no longer has Pen.

Penelope is off living a life full of love and adventure with Colin (as she should be). And if she returns it is no longer Eloise who is her favourite Bridgerton. It is not Eloise who Penelope wishes to sit next to. It is not Eloise who Penelope will share her hopes, fears, and jokes. In Eloise’s eyes, Colin has replaced her.

And other than Penelope, Eloise doesn’t really have any friends. She’s socially awkward at the best of times and combative at the worst. She does not care for dancing or dresses or suitors like most of the ton, so conversation is bound to be stilted. And she really struggles to put on a façade with anyone. What you see is what you get with Eloise Bridgerton and that is refreshing for the audience but at the same time, in a culture where pretence is a necessity, very jarring.

Consequently:

Eloise is more likely to wish for a friend, and latch onto Sophie throughout the season.

Secondly, it will set her up to be in a position where she stands at the beginning of TSPWL. A place where she is a little desperate…and desperately lonely.

For ofcourse, all her friends have chosen another Bridgerton over her. And ofcourse, her greatest allies shall be married and living far away from Bridgerton House—this being Benedict and Sophie.

She shall be the disappointment of the family, the spinster who sits unnoticed in the corner as her baby-filled, love-gushing family swirl around. Now pushed further on the fringes, her voice maturing but also quieting…

Overall, while Eloise grows as a writer and feminist in season 4 she shall have growing isolation, and lack of self-worth.

Why, a marriage of convenience might be a very intriguing concept…especially as at the end of the season when Eloise has her pen pal.

Just think: desperation +rashness+ lovely garden-adoring botanist, (who happens to own a publishing house) = just enough motivation for a little trip to the countryside…

*~*~*~*~*

I’d love to hear your ideas/corrections/opinions and always open to chat or requests. So...

Check out the list here, for more of my ideas.

Check out the general arcs of my prospective S4 here.

Thanks for reading--go grab yourself a cup of tea!

#an offer from an avid reader #eloise bridgerton #sophie beckett #give me complex female characters!#s4 speculation #the friendship we need #an offer from a gentleman #bridgerton #eloise being a whirlwind #sophie and john chasing after her

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hyenahunt · 2 years

Text

Bogie Time: The Jeering of the Jesters - 14

Writer: Akira

Season: Summer

Characters: Hiyori, Tomoya, Hajime, Ibara, Mitsuru, Nagisa, Jun, Nazuna

Proofreading: royalquintet (JP) & Sophie + Skyress (ENG)

Translation: nazunyan427 & haranami & hyenahunt

Jun: Haha. I just thought it was a pretty rare sight to see you acting like a proper senior, Ibara. Isn't it nice doing stuff like this every now and then?

Hiyori: "Fufu. As teammates worked closely with one another, the game ran a most interesting course..."

"But one way or another, the only ones left in the arena are the nimble Mitsuru-kun together with Shino-kun, who has for some reason been left untouched by everyone else!

Tomoya: “There’s no way I could target Hajime… Every time I reached out toward him, he’d just start trembling, his eyes brimming with tears.”

“If I pushed him into the water, I’d feel like I was the bad guy here.”

Hajime: “Th-That was my strategy! I thought that even if I wasn’t able to push anyone else off, I’d make it to the last one standing and win that way!”

Ibara: “Fufu. That truly is a rabbit’s — that is to say, a herbivore’s strategy ♪”

Hajime: “Yes! I’m a Ra*bit after all!”

“Eeeek?!”

Mitsuru: “BAM! And I’m a bunny just like you, so I’m not gonna show any mercy! If anything, it wouldn’t be right to hold back when we’re goin’ head to head like this!”

Nagisa: “...Yes, I felt the same way. We love Ibara, but we still directed all our attacks at him.”

Ibara: “No, it’s very clear that you simply have a grudge against me!”

“Tch! Was this payback for trying to manipulate everyone into reacting in amusing ways?”

Hiyori: "Mmhm, and you too ought to have more amusing reactions yourself — after all, this is a variety show, yes?'

Jun: "For that matter, maybe it was amusing to you but it wasn't fun for me in the slightest, y'know~? The way you kept bringing Jin Sagami up to mess with me and all that?"

Ibara: “You only have yourself to blame for being so boring!”

“If you’d like me to stop, you need but do something interesting that doesn’t involve Jin Sagami or His Highness Hiyori! Well? I’m waiting!”

Nagisa: “...Settle down, you two. The water sumo match is still ongoing; we should stay quiet until the victor is crowned.”

“...Tenma-kun is giving it his all inside the ring. I’d feel terrible if the cameras started focusing on us instead of him.”

Mitsuru: “Thanks for lookin’ out for me, Nagisa-senpai! I’m gonna win this for the both of us! HAAAWWW!!!!”

Hajime: “W-W-WAH?!”

Ibara: “Please don’t hesitate to retire from the match if things seem grim, Jimenyan!”

“The reward isn’t at all commensurate with the effort you have to put in, and the gap in points between us and the other teams isn’t too large. It’s more than alright for you to lose!”

Hajime: “I-I know, but—”

Mitsuru: (Now’s my chance! Hajime-chan’s a real carin’ person, so if someone talks to him, he’ll turn to them to give ‘em his full attention! That’s my openin’!)

(I feel kinda bad ‘cause Hajime-chan’s really given it his all today, but this is a battle between him and me and it has to be done! I’ll send him flyin’!)

“GAARRRRR!!!!”

Hajime: “—Hehe. It’s pretty easy to guess what you’re thinking, Mitsuru-kun.”

Mitsuru: (...?! Hajime-chan disappeared?! Did he dodge me?!”

Hajime: “Sorry! Now’s my chance while you’ve lost your balance—there!”

Mitsuru: “Wh-Whoaaa?!”

Nazuna: “—Oof, he fell off.”

Tomoya: “Whoa… I feel like I just saw something super out of the ordinary with Hajime winning against Mitsuru in a battle of physical strength like that.”

Mitsuru: “Pffah! S-Sorry, Nagisa-senpai! I lost!”

Nagisa: “...There’s no need to apologize. You put up a good fight ♪”

“...I’m quite surprised, though; I had no idea that boy — Shino-kun — had such a clever strategy in mind.”

Ibara: “Heheh. I would say that he’s more calculating than you might expect, but that isn’t exactly accurate. He’s simply very bright, and I’ve also instructed him in the ways of strategizing.”

Hajime: “Yes! Since we’re spending all this time together, I thought I‘d try to absorb a bunch of Ibanyan’s good qualit—W-WAH?!”

“HYAAAH?!”

Tomoya: “Huh? Why’d you fall, Hajime?!”

Hajime: “Pffah! Once it hit me that I’d won, I got careless and slipped! When I dodged Mitsuru-kun, I ended up in a super unnatural pose so I lost my balance!”

Hiyori: "Fufu. Why, isn't he just a charming little thing? That shot just now seems like it could go straight to air."

Jun: "Yeah. No one woulda expected that, so it was pretty fun to watch."

"Plus it happened after the match got decided, so it's not gonna look like he lost and dragged his own team down"."

Hiyori: "If that boy could pull something like that off intentionally, rather than by chance, he'll be taking things to a whole new level."

"True, it's all the more adorable if naturally done, but I do think it'd be unbecoming for a professional to be that unpredictable."

Nagisa: “...Fufu. You’re more than welcome to give commentary, but why don’t we announce the victor first?”

Nazuna: “Yeah. Congrats, Hajime-chin, you’re the winner of water sumo~!”

Hajime: “Huh? Eh-Ehehe...♪”

“Ibanyan! I did it! I won!”

*whisper* ...Although you’d rather not stand out, Ibanyan, so you probably didn’t want to win all that much.

Ibara: …No. I won’t say that I don’t appreciate your consideration, but you’ve made a misassumption.

Triumphing in a mere game such as this one is nothing boast-worthy, but every win is a cause for celebration.

There’s no reason for me to criticize the person who led me to victory. On the contrary, I should be praising you.

“You did very well. That was a splendid performance, Jimenyan.”

Hajime: “...! Yes! I gave it everything I had!”

Jun: ... ♪

Ibara: Jun? Care to share what’s so funny with the rest of the class?

Jun: Haha. I just thought it was a pretty rare sight to see you acting like a proper senior, Ibara. Isn't it nice doing stuff like this every now and then?

I mean, working together with friends and doing your best... that's what it means to be a kid, right?

It seems like you've been thinking up a storm over all this like you usually do, but...

In the end, maybe all Ohii-san and Nagi-senpai wanted was for us to experience this kinda thing together with them, yeah?

Ibara: Hm. In that case, they could have simply told us as much; there was no need for them to kick up such a fuss.

Jun: Haha. I mean, you'd never take it seriously if it wasn't for work, right? ...You might be surprised to hear this, but we have you in our hearts and understand you more than you'd expect.

Ibara: ……

✦✦✦✦✦

← prev ✦ all ✦ next →

#ensemble stars #enstars #enstars translation #hajime shino #ibara saegusa #hiyori tomoe #jun sazanami #nagisa ran #mitsuru tenma #tomoya mashiro #nazuna nito #s: bogie time #era: !!#hyenahunttl

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melanielocke · 2 years

Text

The Stars Collide - Chapter 22

This turned out to be a very long chapter from Alastair's POV. The loss in executive function after ECT is really a side effect that can happen, usually only the day of the ECT itself.

CW: domestic violence (in a flashback), ECT, unethical experimentation AO3 | Chapter list

Christopher had coordinated a continuation of Alastair’s ECT at the academic hospital in Lightwood. He went twice a week now. The days he had ECT on were horrible. He couldn’t eat or drink until after the ECT, his memory didn’t work until the day after, and he was sometimes experiencing severe executive dysfunction after the ECT. Alastair was tired and wanted to go to bed, but somehow he couldn’t figure out how to change into his pajamas. He had done this a million times before. He knew how to change clothes. He told himself to just do it. Take off his clothes, put on his pajamas. His brain refused.

Thomas was already changed into his pajamas and got into bed. ‘Are you coming?’

Alastair decided to give up and just get into bed. It wasn’t exactly comfortable to sleep in his day clothes, but there was nothing else to it.

Thomas frowned. ‘Are you going to sleep in clothes?’

‘Yes.’

‘What about your pajamas?’

‘Can’t find them. I’m tired.’

‘They’re right there,’ Thomas said. ‘You can sleep in whatever you want, but I can’t imagine this is comfortable.’

‘It’s not,’ Alastair admitted.

He felt buttons pressing against him. With his recent weight gain, his clothes were a little on the tight side and while he didn’t mind walking around in them, lying in bed in them was very uncomfortable. Nor did he want his clothes to get all wrinkly and sweaty.

‘Can you help me?’ Alastair asked. ‘It’s the ECT – I don’t know how change.’

‘Oh. Sure, of course.’

Thomas got out of bed and Alastair did the same. He tried to breathe as Thomas started unbuttoning his shirt, and stripped him down to his undergarments. It was mortifying. The only context in which he’d want Thomas to undress him was if they were going to have sex. Instead, Thomas helped him into his pajamas like he was a child who hadn’t yet figured out how to dress himself and they got back in bed together.

‘That must suck,’ Thomas said. ‘Did you forget how to change? Or can’t you make yourself do it?’

‘It was other things too, I think, but not as essential. When I couldn’t figure out how to cut an onion I could just say I was tired and then your mother did it for me. It’s like there’s so many steps involved and my brain decides to give up. No matter how hard I try I can’t make myself do it.’

‘I’m sure you’ll feel better tomorrow,’ Thomas said. ‘Good night.’

Alastair hated ECT. He did feel like he was getting somewhere. He dreamt of experiments and labs almost every night, but he still couldn’t quite touch the memories. At this point, Alastair was quite certain they were real. These experiments had happened. But he needed to be able to show Charlotte his memories, otherwise he’d have no proof anything happened.

His power did seem more consistent and reliable apart from those gaps, he wasn’t getting lost in memories the same way anymore, and when he did Alastair presumed those were PTSD symptoms. He’d started working on making a list of triggers he could avoid for now, because while he didn’t want to hide from life for a long time, he also wanted to protect himself from having multiple flashbacks a day. The Lightwood house was relatively safe. There was a lot of room to stay inside, and Gideon and Sophie Lightwood were very calm and gentle people. Still, there had been some things. Gideon sometimes wore a cologne that was too similar to what Charles had worn, and he’d had to change to something completely different. While Sophie rarely drank alcohol, she did like to use wine in her cooking and Alastair had to leave the kitchen when she did.

Everyone was easy to accommodate him when needed, but Alastair struggled to ask for it. He didn’t always know what he needed, and he didn’t want to inconvenience other people. More importantly, he didn’t want to show weakness, he didn’t want people to know how upset these little things could make him. Somehow he was losing the ability to hide it though. He didn’t know why that had been easier back when he was just surviving Charles.

Alastair woke up from another nightmare, another one that was slipping through his fingers the moment he tried to process it awake. It was driving him insane, to know it was right there, on the tip of his tongue, but when he needed it the most he lost it. Again.

Thomas pushed himself up to a sitting position. ‘Did you have a nightmare?’

‘It’s the same as always. I know it was the experiment, but I can’t remember any details, or verify if it’s real,’ Alastair said.

‘That must be frustrating.’

‘It’s so close, yet I can’t access it.’

He moved a little closer to Thomas. Perhaps it was too much, but Alastair wanted this, he wanted to be close to Thomas, to be held by him, to feel his strong arms. They hadn’t done that again, and Alastair hadn’t known how to ask. But now it was all he could think of. It was ironic that there was so much distance between Alastair and the man he was married to. And it was nice that they’d taken time, that they hadn’t started sleeping together immediately. But now that Alastair did want it, he had no idea how to initiate, how to ask for it. He was used to Charles deciding when and where and how they’d have sex, and while he was happy to have the freedom to decide for himself, he also had no idea how to get back to being intimate and having sex without someone else taking the initiative. He only knew the way Charles had initiated sex and that was not something he would ever wish to do to another person.

‘You’ll get there,’ Thomas said. ‘I have faith in you.’

Alastair nodded. It was nice, someone having faith in him. Alastair himself was inclined to expect the worst, he’d always been rather pessimistic and didn’t have a lot of faith himself. Mira had been right about that, his self esteem was very low. But if Alastair wanted to stop hating himself, he would have to become a person worthy of love and he had no idea how to do that.

He moved a little closer again, hoping Thomas would somehow take the hint and make a move, but either Thomas didn’t notice or he had no interest.

‘Let’s go back to sleep,’ Thomas suggested instead.

Alastair turned around and pulled the covers over him. It took him a while to fall asleep again, and he woke very early the next morning. Not wanting to stay in bed without falling asleep again, he out of bed and started dressing himself. Thank the stars his brain was working again. He went to the library to continue with Thomas’ long book series. He was used to functioning on very little sleep and rarely had an uninterrupted night. He didn’t remember what it felt like to not be tired. This was fine.

After finishing the next chapter, Alastair remembered it might be a good idea to have breakfast. He closed the book and went to the kitchen, where Sophie was pouring oats from a big bowl into a small bowl.

‘Morning, Alastair. You want some oats too? I made a big batch last night.’

‘Sure,’ he said.

‘Would you like any toppings to finish the oatmeal? I have apple slices, bananas, cinnamon, maple syrup.’

‘I’ve never had maple syrup before,’ Alastair said.

‘It’s common in this area because of all the trees, but elsewhere on the planet it’s not used as often. I really like it with pancakes or oats,’ Sophie said. ‘It’s kind of an unusual flavor.’

The oats with maple syrup were very good, it turned out.

‘You’re up early,’ Sophie said.

‘I usually wake early,’ Alastair said. ‘Sleeping issues, I’ve had those for years.’

‘Oh, that sounds difficult,’ Sophie said.

‘I’m used to it,’ Alastair said.

‘I hope Thomas doesn’t wake you up with his snoring.’

‘He doesn’t snore,’ Alastair said. ‘Though he can breathe rather loud.’

‘He snored when he was a child. I’m happy for you that he doesn’t anymore.’

‘If he did, I wouldn’t be willing to sleep in the same bed, that’s for sure,’ Alastair said. ‘But as it is, I like having him near me. Somehow I feel safer.’

‘That’s good. I know it must be difficult for you to feel safe. It took me a while to feel safe around other people again after I left my abusive ex.’

Alastair’s interest was piqued, but he knew he shouldn’t ask questions. ‘I’m sorry that happened to you.’

‘It was a long time ago,’ Sophie said. ‘I regret what happened, but I’ve made peace with it.’

‘How did you recover?’

‘After I left, Charlotte offered me a place to stay. She was still Crown Princess then and had more time for me. She offered me her friendship and support. I owe her a lot, and she’s still one of my closest friends. Gideon helped me too. It took a while for me to believe he could genuinely be interested in me, my self esteem was very low back then. My ex gave me this.’

Sophie pointed at the scar on her face. Alastair had wondered about it, but had figured it would be rude to ask.

‘He told me now no one else would want me now that I wasn’t beautiful anymore. Not that he ever made me feel beautiful, he only ever tore me down,’ she said. ‘But Gideon only ever made me feel beautiful. It didn’t matter to him that I have a scar or that I gained a lot of weight after my pregnancies.

He was rather awkward at expressing his intentions when we first got together. He ended up blurting out that he intended to ask me out to our friends while I was also in the room. And then there’s the scone incident.’

Alastair grinned. ‘That must have been awkward. But he does seem like a good partner.’

‘He is. Thomas is a lot like him. Including the awkwardness, I’m afraid. He always struggles to take initiative when he likes someone, I really was surprised when he heard he was going to marry you, that he volunteered for it. I figured he must have really liked you.’

‘It’s an arranged marriage,’ Alastair said. ‘Thomas did volunteer for it, but I think that’s because Charlotte was pressuring Matthew into marrying me instead. He doesn’t really have feelings for me. But we are good friends now. That should be enough.’

He wished it was enough. Friendship was good, and valuable, something he had missed out on his entire life. But he wanted romance too. He wanted Thomas.

‘It does. But are you sure Thomas doesn’t have feelings for you? Because as I said, he struggles with taking the initiative.’

Alastair sighed. ‘I don’t know.’

‘Do you want him to have feelings for you?’

‘I think so? I do really like him, and I’d want our relationship to be more romantic. But I couldn’t function in a romantic relationship.’

Alastair was barely functioning in a friendship with Thomas, and while he’d love the upsides of a romantic and sexual relationship with him, he knew relationships were difficult and complicated and he’d never quite been able to figure that out. All he knew was Charles’ increasingly difficult moods. All he knew was to escalate, to get mad and then end up getting beaten up. He knew Thomas wasn’t like that, Thomas wouldn’t hit him, but Thomas deserved a better romantic partner than him. The best Alastair could do for him was please him in the bedroom, and Thomas did not seem interested in that.

‘What makes you say that?’ Sophie sounded concerned.

‘I’m not sure how to explain it. But I’m not very good with people,’ Alastair said.

‘Lots of people aren’t good with people, what matters is you find someone who is compatible with you. I’ve seen you and Thomas interact, and I think you can read each other quite well for a couple that hasn’t been married that long. The issue, I think is, that the situation is a little awkward since you got married before establishing any sort of relationship and you now have to figure out what you want and need from each other. And Thomas is the kind of person to avoid difficult conversations.’

‘I guess that’s true. But he’s also very kind and caring. He does so much for me, and I’m not sure I have anything to give back.’

‘What’s most important to Thomas, I think, is to spend quality time with the people he cares about. Going to museums, walks in the woods, things like that. That’s difficult right now since you have to stay safe, but he also likes watching tv shows with other people and then discuss it, or discuss books he likes.’

‘That doesn’t sound too difficult,’ Alastair said. ‘We do watch tv shows together, and I read his books. And if it weren’t for all the threats against me I’d love to go to a museum with him.’

Alastair hadn’t considered such things as part of a romantic relationship. They were things you did in any relationship, he guessed, be it friends, or family, or romantic. It was something he’d missed with Charles, who’d often been too busy and only took him along to important state affairs, none of which could be described as fun. No one had really cared about his interests and the only time he had any fun with other people was when he watched Tilly.

That afternoon, he decided to go for a walk in the woods. Sophie had suggested Thomas might like it if they went on a walk together, and as long as Cordelia came along to keep them safe it was alright. Lucie had decided to come along too.

Thomas knew the way, while Cordelia knew how to keep him safe. Lucie had offered him some more charms for extra protection, one she claimed would make it so the people who meant him harm wouldn’t find him. There was no evidence anyone had followed him here so far, he hoped it would stay that way.

Alastair’s only earlier experience with the woods of Lightwood was in Thomas’ memory, when Thomas and Christopher had gotten lost in here. Alastair began to understand how that could happen, the woods were endless here. The seasons were more outspoken here than in the Fair palace area, the leaves had turned bright orange and red and the forest floor was covered. It was gorgeous.

Lucie looked around in awe. ‘This is exactly the kind of environment I need to set my next book in,’ she said.

‘Do different environments often inspire you?’ Alastair asked.

‘Oh, yes,’ Lucie said. ‘I once spent a week on a submarine. Witch work. But it helped me come up with so many new ideas.’

‘Sounds terrifying,’ Thomas said. ‘I mean, what if it sinks and you get stuck? I imagine that would be a horrible way to die.’

‘What’s the point of submarines anyway?’ Alastair asked. ‘There’s no reason you’d need to go undetected and hoverships are far more environmentally friendly.’

‘They’re mostly used for scientific research,’ Lucie said. ‘Mapping out the ocean and such. I also heard there’s people working on figuring out how to live underwater. Like, build spaces people can live in underwater. We’re kind of running out of space on the planet, so people are looking for solutions in case we need to house more people.’

Alastair was hit by a sudden fear. He couldn’t breathe. He needed to get away, but he didn’t know where to find safety. There was no way out. There was no way out. But how could that be, they were in the middle of a forest. Then he wasn’t in a forest anymore.

Alastair stopped in his tracks. ‘Charles, what is this place?’

They’d been on a hovership for a long time, on their way to one of Charles’ new projects. Charles had been eager to show Alastair what he was working on, had told him that he would be very important for this project. Alastair was happy to be able to help Charles, he truly was, but he didn’t trust this place. The pilot of the hovership had stopped in the middle of the ocean, and then a submarine had come up, ready to catch them. He had followed Charles onto the submarine, down the hatch, and the submarine had taken them down into the ocean to an underwater facility. He had never known such a place existed. The walls to the outside were mostly made of glass, allowing a view of the ocean and the life in it. If it broke, they’d all die.

‘This is where my new project takes place,’ Charles explained. ‘There’s nothing to be afraid of, darling.’

‘What is your new project?’ Alastair asked.

Charles had mentioned it often over the past weeks, and it was clear he’d been very excited about it, yet he hadn’t told Alastair what kind of project it was, nor why it was so important to him that Alastair came with him.

‘You’ll see. It is very important to me, and I expect your cooperation.’

Alastair was getting frustrated with these non answers but he knew he couldn’t let that show. He couldn’t pick a fight, not here. He took in a deep breathe and followed Charles. Perhaps it wasn’t so bad. Perhaps, for once, he could be what Charles needed from him.

A young man greeted him. ‘Dr. Blackthorn isn’t here today, but she’s made full preparations for the first phase of the project. She’s very excited about the test subject.’

‘Test subject?’ Alastair asked carefully.

‘Oh, I’m sorry,’ the man said. ‘She’s excited about you, of course. Your powers are fascinating indeed, and there are so many potential uses for it. Far more than we believe you’ve explored so far. We’re going to help you unlock your real potential.’

The man led them to a lab and gestured at him to sit down in a chair. ‘I’m going to put on the electrodes now.’

‘You’re going to do what?’

‘The electrodes,’ the man repeated. ‘For the reading.’

The man didn’t wait for Alastair to respond, just starting putting patches on his head. Alastair didn’t think, he just ripped them off and before anyone could do anything he ran off. He needed to get out of here. He needed to go home. He had no idea where he’d come from nor where he was going, it was a maze. He found a glass wall that looked out into the ocean, and then he remembered. There was no way out. There was nowhere for him to go, he was trapped in here.

A firm hand grabbed his upper arm, pulling him back. Alastair flinched, it hurt. He turned around to meet Charles’ eyes.

‘Didn’t I just tell you how important this project is? What do you think you’re doing?’

‘I don’t want to do this,’ Alastair said. ‘Please, I want to go home.’

Charles shoved him against the glass wall with all the force he had and for a moment Alastair worried the glass was going to break and ocean water would come rushing in. Nothing happened, except the pain in the back of his head, his shoulders. Charles looked like he wasn’t finished, angry until a few moments later a calm seemed to wash over him. His moods had always been changeable like this.

‘I’m sorry, darling. Why can’t you just do this one thing? Why can’t you see how important this is to me?’

‘How would I know?’ Alastair hissed. He knew he shouldn’t raise his voice, he knew he shouldn’t get mad, but he couldn’t stop it. ‘You haven’t told me a single thing about this project. I have no idea what’s going on, why we’re here. I don’t want to participate in experiments. I don’t want people messing with my memory. And I would have told you long before we’d gotten here if you hadn’t kept it all from me.’

He heard a voice, someone yelling his name, and a moment later it wasn’t just him and Charles in the corner. For a moment, nothing made sense. What was Cordelia doing here, how was she even on Fair? She was accompanied by Lucie Herondale and Thomas Lightwood.

Cordelia pulled Charles away from him and threw him onto the ground.

‘Layla, stop!’ Alastair managed to say. ‘Don’t hurt him.’

‘Alastair, listen to me. You’re safe,’ Thomas said. ‘He can’t hurt you anymore. This isn’t real, this is just a memory.’

Just a memory… Of course, it was just a memory. The thing he’d been trying to remember for so long. This wasn’t his life anymore. Charles was gone, and he was married to Thomas.

‘I want to get out of here,’ Alastair said.

‘I don’t know how to do that,’ Thomas said. ‘It’s your power.’

‘Didn’t you just enter this memory?’

‘No, I thought you did that. I thought you needed help. Try to picture the forest, okay?’

Alastair tried not to look at the scene in front of him, of Cordelia shouting at Charles. There was so much she’d never gotten to say to him, and for Cordelia this was her chance. They couldn’t yell at real Charles anymore, but they could yell at a memory of him. He hoped it helped Cordelia feel better. He hated that they were here. Exactly how much had they witnessed? He’d never wanted anyone to see him like this, it was bad enough that they knew.

He closed his eyed and pictured the forest. It wasn’t difficult to bring to mind, he’d spend a lot of time taking in the details. The red colored leaves, the soft breeze. This wasn’t real, Alastair told himself. The forest was. The scent of autumn, something he had never smelled so strongly before. The sound of leaves underneath his feet, the feel of stepping into them.

He opened his eyes to the forest, shaking on his feet. Thomas was holding on to him, keeping him safe, and Alastair leaned into his embrace. He’d been longing to be held by Thomas for some time, he just wished that could have happened without having a flashback first.

‘Do you want to return home?’ Thomas asked.

‘I think so,’ Alastair managed to say.

He didn’t know what he wanted, exactly. He always felt so exhausted after a flashback, but he didn’t know if resting the rest of the day was the best way to deal with it.

‘It’s real,’ Alastair said. ‘The experiments, Charles’ involvement, all of it. It really happened.’

‘What happened? Did you learn anything about what the experiments were for?’ Cordelia asked.

‘Charles was very vague about it. He took me out onto the ocean without me knowing what was going on and then he suddenly said he needed me for the project and I needed to cooperate. And there was this lab guy, I don’t recognize him, and he didn’t care at all that I didn’t want this. He put electrodes on my head, so I imagine it must have been something like Christopher’s machine. I ran away, but of course there was nowhere to go. What are we going to do now? I know we should show Charlotte, but how am I supposed to tell her what her son was really like?’

@alastaircarstairsdefenselawyer @life-through-the-eyes-of @styxdrawings @justanormaldemon @ipromiseiwillwrite @a-dream-dirty-and-bruised @amchara @all-for-the-fanfiction @imsoftforthomastair @ddepressedbookworm @queenlilith43 @wagner-fell @cant-think-of-anything @laylax13s @tessherongraystairs @boredfangirl16 @artist-in-soul @leslutapologist @ikissedsmithparker

#Alastair Carstairs #Thomas Lightwood #Thomastair #Cordelia Carstairs #Lucie Herondale #Sophie Collins #the stars collide #the last hours #tlh

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sxs-kav · 2 years

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The School for Good and Evil: Thoughts

SPOILERS AHEAD, you’ve been warned. This is super long, longer than I meant it to be, and I know it sounds like I'm complaining but I actually enjoyed the ride of these books overall.

Alright, so I finally read through all 6 books in the last few weeks and I have been dying to make a post critiquing these books since I cracked open the first one.

First I want to mention what I think is the strongest aspect of these books: the world building. One of the biggest things I liked about the books was how the Endless Woods really did feel endless. During the school years not quite as much, but the Camelot years kept popping up new and unique kingdoms with really fun ideas of ‘magical technology’. It shows the author’s creativity off in spades. Not to mention the way familiar fairytales and kingdoms like Camelot or Oz are reimagined to fit into this extended fairytale universe, and questioning what happens after ‘The End’ is written.

Another aspect I really enjoyed was the action, and not just the fights. When the characters were actually DOING something, not just ruminating, those were the best scenes. That's where the pacing and story progress felt the best.

I also think the idea of the plot in the first three (breaking the rules of fairytales, what makes someone Good or Evil) was fun to explore. Soman is clearly very imaginative. He had a vision in his head that he wanted to share, I felt that in every book. I just don’t think his writing conveyed it in a satisfying way.

One of the biggest problems I had with his style is that it’s convoluted and sometimes circular. Especially in the first books, it felt like every time he tried to explain what it meant to be Evil, it was different. I don’t know if this was because he wanted to justify Sophie being Evil while also being a protagonist we shouldn’t be afraid to like? But to me, Sophie is not Evil in the understanding of the word I have from other media with a concept of good and evil, or even Soman’s own explanations. She has her moments, yes, but only in the first book and the tail end of the book 3 does she truly feel Evil. Otherwise, she’s more like ‘chaotic good’. (Btw, it would have been interesting if, instead of automatically being dropped in one school or the other, the students had to be tested first to see where they belonged).

But back to the explanations, I feel like every time a character discovered something or had an inner monologue trying to work out a puzzle that I came out more confused. It was only when we had walls of exposition text (ie, The Tale of Callis and Vanessa, Japeth’s secrets, etc) that you finally got a clear picture of what was going on. It shouldn't take the author spoon-feeding information to you to understand the story. The best stories with a mystery element lead you there with clues that maybe the character doesn't quite put together immediately, but you as the reader can catch onto, so it feels satisfying during the big reveal. The twists in this story were so out of left field sometimes they almost didn't make sense with the 'clues' we were given. Or they didn’t mesh with older ideas from the story. I'm no stranger to wild twists, but they have to also be logical. Perhaps the biggest example of this is Rhian and Japeth's parentage, which leads me to another point.

Why couldn't we just leave Rafal in his grave? Like, yeah, he didn't come back to life in the Camelot books, but why did we need him to be the father of the twins? It would have made more sense for it to be The Green Knight, with his plot to take revenge, his connections to Arthur and Merlin, the fact that he saved Evelyn. Everything could have been the same as far as how they tricked Excalibur and the Lady with Chaddick's blood, having the dress leave a message for the boys, the Mistrals getting involved. Just the fact that they insist how Rafal believes in the Storian goes against him being in favor of the boys doing this One True King plot. Plus he rejected Evelyn anyway, so why would he have had sex with her??? Then all of the sudden, with barely a hint at all for 6 books, Chaddick is the true heir of Arthur. Nothing in the first three books led to that possibility. Which leads me to another problem with the series: poor planning.

Obviously Soman didn't probably plan on writing a second trilogy while in the midst of writing the first, but to retcon stuff from the first book trilogy to satisfy the second is poor writing in my opinion. But there's a general sense of inconsistency with a lot of elements in the books. There were blatant contradictions that had me looking back to make sure I read correctly. Plot holes drive me nuts in my own writing, so when I read them I can only keep think about how I want to fix them. Honestly, these books would do well with an entire revision, and if I had the time and dedication I would love to do it. All the puzzle pieces were there for a fantastic plot, but it's like they were forced together with glue rather than the right parts being slotted together. I will say, there was definitely a more obvious grand plan for Camelot Years, but it still felt like a wild goose chase sometimes.

Another huge issue I had with the books as a whole was the relationships. Not the chosen pairings/friendships, but how they were developed. The relationships that were established before the story started were usually better than those that had to grow in the course of the story. I felt this the most with the love triangle of the first trilogy. Sophie and Agatha didn't seem like they truly did care about each other most of the time. We're just supposed to accept that yes, Sophie treats Agatha like crap and thinks she's weird and gross, but she loves her. Agatha hanging onto her like a lost puppy makes sense because she was lonely, but it felt like most of the time we just had to be told Sophie loved her. I didn't feel Sophie truly loving Agatha until much later in the series, mostly in Camleot. Then Agatha and Tedros went instantly from hate to love with hardly any build up. Yes, Tedros could sense her Goodness and kept picking Agatha without realizing, but that to me was more proof Agatha belonged in Good rather than proof of their love. And Agatha hated his guts until she smiled at him that one time, and all of the sudden she changed her mind? It would have been better if she reluctantly found him attractive and as she was helping Sophie, she started to wish it was her (maybe those elements were there, but I feel like they weren't until far too late in the first book). Then there's Hort and Sophie's relationship which had so much potential, but which also had no development on Sophie's side until the last minute. I would have loved to see her more jealous of Nicola. That's the route I thought we were going down at first, but it just fizzled out. I would like to make a separate post on Hophie and how it could have been, so I won't go into extreme details here. But I think a lot of these relationship problems come from characterization inconsistencies.

It seems like the characters are always second guessing their feelings and that's maddening. Even when it seems like something finally clicks, the next chapter has them going backwards. They're always as confused as I feel reading the books. Maybe that's the point, because they're young and finding themselves, but it's overkill. Agatha is one of the worst with this, because even when she finally is okay with being queen, she's not okay with it. Even when she trusts Tedros, she doesn't. Even when she believes in him, she doesn't. It's so tiring. And every time there's a doubt we get a page or two of text on why. I just want her to come to a realization and have it STICK. But I think this is part of a larger issue that Soman has as a writer. He needs to show, not tell, the most basic rule of writing. He's in the characters' heads too much, rather than letting their actions speak for them. And yes, you have to have inner monologue from your main characters, but it's just too much. It slows the story down.

Also, one very specific grievance is Rhian's character. He was Good all along but it was only obvious in the last chapter (no pun intended) of his life. It would have been nice if his plan to wipe out Evil had been brought up earlier, to add some moral grayness to his character while he still had time to live and we the audience had time to wonder if maybe he is a better king. Instead it was like, 'oh, maybe he's not so Evil after all. Guess he has to die'. It was kind of pointless. Also, how was he even Good when Evelyn and Rafal are his parents...

Honestly, I think the film is going to fix a lot of these issues. We can see rather than be told about relationships, doubts, etc. Any necessary exposition can be trimmed back instead of having to slog through. I think Soman was meant to be a screenwriter rather than a regular author, because it’s so obvious he has an entire storyboard in his head and the world is so grand, but it would be so much easier to understand the characters by watching them come to life rather than being in their heads.

Overall, I don’t think it’s a bad series. I like the concept, which is why it frustrates when the writing style struggles to capture the story the way it deserves. It's not even to say Soman is a bad author, but he could be better. There was definite improvement over time but he hasn't quite reached his potential yet either. If he writes more to the series or a totally different series, I hope to see him get even better.

#sge #school for good and evil #agatha #tedros #sophie #soman chainani #tagatha #hophie #spoilers #sge spoilers

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rere-the-writer · 3 years

Text

Title- Mikaelsons and a baby

A part two to this ask

Part three

Part four - coming soon

Pairings: Poly!Mikaelson x Pregnant!Reader

Warnings: Fluff, Soft!Mikaelsons, Just a little bit of angst, Klaus and Kol threating people

You sat with Rebekah trying to distract yourself from not worrying about Davina as lately the young witch hadn't been feeling well lately. You looked up seeing Hayley leaving with Sophie and thought nothing of it.

"Hey Beka?"

"Yes, beautiful?" Rebekah questioned looking over at you seeing that you were knitting you fourth scarf.

"Is Davina okay? Marcel was asking about her earlier." You asked Rebekah watching drop her book worry came across her face.

"Also it is probably nothing but I over heard Sophie talking to Nik about completing the Harvest." You answered Rebekah startled when she suddenly stood up.

"I need to find Elijah." Rebekah said leaving making you worry as it was never good if Elijah needed to know and decided to find Kol since you were still mad at Klaus when learned what he did to Davina.

"Kol? What are you doing?" You asked him finding him in your bedroom trying do something.

"Putting the crib together." Kol said smiling up at you as you giggled seeing that it was looking more like a hot mess than a crib.

"Babe, that doesn't look like a crib." You giggle sitting next to Kol as he placed his hand on your baby bump.

"Well right now it doesn't but it will be."

"Need any hel......" You were cut off when the room shook and Kol quickly grabbed you protecting you as things fell from the wall.

"What was that?"

"Davina. She can't control all that magic she has." Kol says walking out of the room with you following worried as you mothered the girl as Kol would tease. You followed Kol but paused seeing Hayley with Elijah and as much as you knew to follow Kol. You were curious what they were talking about.

"Elijah, I have something to tell you." You heard Hayley say as you peeked around the corner knowing Elijah most likely knew that you were there.

"What is it Hayley?"

"Sophie called asking for a favor and at first I thought it was about the baby as Sophie promised me that she would help break the curse," Hayley says as she walked ahead of Elijah as he narrowed his eyes, "that Marcel put on my people for information. I didn't think nothing of it but Davina started doing those pictures of Celeste."

"Hayley, what did you do? It have better not put Y/N and the baby in danger." Elijah said walking up to the werewolf as you swallowed a bad feeling settled in the pit of your stomach.

"Sophie wanted to find Celeste's remains so I asked Y/N and went though your journals to find out where you buried her the told Sophie," Hayley tells Elijah sounding hurt as you felt sick and guilty as Elijah told you in confidence, "I know it was snoopy and I should have just asked you."

"Celeste wanted to be left in peace. When a witch's remains are consecrated, that power fuels the rest of their community." Elijah tells Hayley hurt lacing his voice while guilt ate away at you. Hayley looked down feeling terrible as Elijah walked up to her.

"She did not want to be found, she made me promise to make sure she couldn't. Not only did you violated my privacy but you have broken my promise to her."

"I thought they were just bones Elijah."

"If you truly believed that, why didn't you ask me where to find her instead of using Y/N and looked though my journals." Elijah said walking pass Hayley going to chase after you hearing you walking off.

"Baby, Y/N. Wait a minute." Elijah says gently grabbing your arm and cupped your cheek wiping away your tears.

"Why are you upset?"

"Because I helped Hayley break your promise. I know how much they mean to you." You tell Elijah as he smiled softly pulling you into a hug.

"You are too sweet baby. I am not mad at you for you couldn't have known her little plan."

"But still Elijah." You mumble against his chest as Elijah kissed your head when you hugged him. It wasn't hard to see Elijah was angry at Hayley as Kol and Rebekah could tell but Klaus wasn't surprised as you finally forgave him and told him everything.

"Elijah can we talk?"

"Just on my out." Elijah said holding your hand taking you with him for the day as Klaus followed teasing Elijah.

"You don't have to be here. You also didn't need to bring Y/N, it'll take Sophie some time to prepare the consecration."

"I have nothing but time and Y/N needs time out of the Abattoir. I owe Celeste this much." Elijah says watching you stand at the grave flowers in hand as you told Elijah you wanted to pay respects to the dead witch.

"Care to elaborate?" Sabine asked walking up to Elijah as he looked at her then back at you with a soft look in his eyes.

"Ever experience something so profoundly wonderful that when it was taken from you. Your life felt unbearable?"

"Yeah I've felt that. I have scars to prove it." Sabine says noticing how Elijah watched you as if you were the only woman in the world.

"I believe when you love someone like I had Celeste, they leave you uniquely vulnerable. Y/N has the power to hurt me like no other."

"You really love that woman don't you?" Sabine asked looking at you also as Elijah took out a handkerchief.

"I do." Elijah says walking up to noticing a tear rolling down your cheek wiping it away. Learning that Marcel took Davina to protect her from the Harvest left a hollowed feeling in your chest.

"You okay there?" You heard Sabine ask as you left at the Abattoir as the family went looking for Davina and Marcel.

"Yeah.....I....just...it's nothing."

"You can tell me." Sabine says sitting next to you as you sighed rubbing your bump.

"I feel bad for Elijah. I understand Hayley wants to help her people but it made Elijah break his promise to Celeste."

"You knew were she was buried."

"Yeah....I asked wanting to pay respects to the woman that got to love Elijah before me."

"You are adorably dumb."

"So Nik and Kol tells me." You tell her with a bright smile as Sabine could see what the Mikaelsons saw in you. You had a softness to you that drew people in, that made them comfortable.

"Where is Hayley?"

"Hanging out with her wolves." You answered Sabine watching her pull out a pendant of some kind.

"Wanna know the sex of the baby?" Sabine asked you watching you light up nodding.

"We found Davina." Kol says sitting next to you seeing you playing a card game with Sabine. You paused looking at Kol as that hollow feeling returned.

"Oh." You said in a quiet voice which Kol picked up something was wrong with you and made a note to ask you later about it. Rain poured as you stood next to Kol with Elijah holding an umbrella over you as you all watch Sophie complete the Harvest.

"It didn't work." Hayley whispered as the witches didn't wake up as the rain stopped. You bit your lip tears falling seeing Sophie cry over her dead niece.

"Shhh darling. It's okay." Kol muttered softly hugging you as you cried Elijah felt his heart break hearing your sons.

"Rebekah, you and Kol take Y/N home while Niklaus and I take care of this."

"Come babe. We'll get you and get some tea." Rebekah says as you nodded walking with her and Kol.

Bad juju is what your grandmother would say when ever you would get a hollow feeling. For the last few days witch bad juju was running a muck as Klaus and Rebekah was missing while Kol had to save Hayley and a wolf you learned named Jackson.

"Baby?" Elijah questioned finding you sitting in Klaus's art studio dress in one of Klaus's shirts as non of Rebekah's clothes couldn't fit you anymore.

"I miss them 'Lijah." You tell him as he sits next to you kissing your head.

"We'll find them baby." Elijah tells you as you nodded. It was weird to you hanging around Hayley as you had been noticing how she would look at Elijah. You hadn't noticed until Celeste pointed it out after you learned she was controlling your new witch friend.

"You're a lot cuter than what Hayley told me about you." You heard Jackson say making your cheeks warm up looking up at the werewolf.

"Well I could say something nice about you but Hayley barely said a word about you."

"So why are you out here with Hayley?" Jackson asked sitting next to you.

"Hayley's idea. She told Elijah that it would be safer for me until they find Nik and Beka."

"I see. What are you having?"

"A girl." You tell him with a smile as you two talked.

"You let Hayley take my unborn child and Queen out in a swamp."

"Firstly it's a bayou Niklaus and second it was to keep her safe from Celeste." Elijah tells Klaus helping Rebekah over a log while Kol was ahead with Klaus. After a long night in a graveyard airing out centuries of problems, the Originals were inching to have you near them again.

"She is going to upset that Sabine is dead." Rebekah said knowing that you grew close to the witch

"Yes, we should tell her later." Elijah says as Hayley met up with them to which Klaus and Kol noticed right away that Hayley moved next to Elijah.

"Hayley have you and the wolves been taking care of Y/N?" Klaus questioned there was a dangerous under tone to Klaus's voice. Hayley looped her arm around Elijah's nodding as Elijah raised an eyebrow but pushed it aside.

When they reached the wolf pack, they heard your sweet laugh and saw you standing in front of what looked like a work bench. Jackson stood behind you gently holding your hands showing you how to drill.

"Hayley who is that touching my wife." Rebekah asked lowly as Hayley looked at her seeing the blonde vampire glaring. Hayley looked at the other three jumping when she heard them growling also glaring.

"That's Jackson. Y/N and him has been getting close."

"You have told him who she belongs to yes?"

"I though her being pregnant was a clear enough sign." Hayley told Klaus not caring for his glare. Rebekah got your attention easily something her and the boys was always proud of.

"Beka!" You cried moving from Jackson throwing yourself into her arms as she held you. Hayley walked up with boys seeing you peppered Rebekah with kisses.

"Nik! You're okay!" You squealed happily giving the hybrid the same treatment as Jackson watched happy for you.

"Oh guys meet Jackson, Hayley's fiancee." You said smiling making the Originals blink confused while Hayley stared at you. While they weren't looking you gave Hayley a mischievous smirk knowing just what you were doing surprising the wolf.

"Fiancee?"

"Yeah. Some old wolf thing." Hayley answered Elijah waving her dismissively while you put on the most innocent look getting Elijah's attention. Both Klaus and Kol knew what you were doing while Elijah had no clue.

"Eli don't you think that maybe we can help Jackson move closer to Hayley or maybe help set up a cabin. So that Jackson isn't away from fiancee?"

Klaus and Kol was smirking as Rebekah stood next to quietly laughing behind her hand. They knew when you were jealous as you would get mischievous and since Hayley seemly liked Elijah, you were going to nip it in the bud.

"You're right baby. Hayley you should be getting to know Jackson and getting the pack together if you want them at faction meetings."

"Right.....Elijah or everything is fine just the way it is."

"But Hayley, 'Lijah right. If you want wolves in on the meetings it best you and Jackson unite the wolves." You tell her pressing closer to Elijah who smiled at you unaware of what you did.

"I'll even help little wolf." Klaus said throwing gas on the fire while Jackson smiled also unaware of what little plan you did.

"Okay." Hayley said sighing as you grinned feeling Elijah kissing your head telling Jackson that they needed to get you home.

"You little minx." Klaus teased sitting on the couch pulling you into his lap.

"I don't know what you are talking about." You tell him faking innocence as Kol joined you both laying his head on your belly listening to the baby.

"Don't worry darling it's our little secret." Kol tells you smiling kissing your belly as you just hummed relaxing enjoying the peace and quiet while it lasted.

#rere's stories #mikaelson family x reader #mikaelsons x reader #elijah mikaelson x reader #klaus mikaelson x reader #kol mikaelson x reader #rebekah mikaelson x reader #the originals x reader

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tootiredmotel · 3 years

Text

a different lover is not a sin

or: 5 times Dean didn't go to Pride + 1 time he did

Happy @starrynightdeancas gift exchange posting day!!! This one's for the wonderful and talented @andzia267 !!! Sending you all the hugs and good vibes, and I hope you enjoy it! And thank you Sophie for hosting all this, you're a rock star! <3

Read on ao3 or below / 5.5k words

CW: homophobia, queer used as a slur, john winchester being an asshole

1 - 1994

Dean was fifteen years old when he found out that being gay was something people could be proud of. It was early in the morning, they'd left their motel about 20 minutes before, and Sammy had fallen asleep in the backseat. The sun was just starting to completely show over the horizon, and they were driving through– or rather, struggling to get out of– Phoenix on their way to a possible poltergeist in Tucson. Every street they tried to take was blocked for the big event, and dozens of people already lined the sidewalks with colorful outfits and signs.

"Fuckin' queers," John grumbled in the seat next to him. "Never should'a thrown that damn brick."

Big banners overhead displayed "Stonewall 25: A Global Celebration of Pride". Dean made a mental note to hit up a library once they got to Tucson to look that up, "Stonewall". In the meantime, he was mesmerized staring out the window. Guys held hands, women kissed, everyone was practically vibrating with excitement. A black man in heels and a wig caught his gaze through the window and waved. Dean started to wave back, but his hand was harshly swatted back down.

"Do not," John said. "Don’t talk to them, don’t even look at ‘em. These people are sick in the head."

Dean focused his gaze on his lap until they were out of the city, and his mind wandered back to the gas station they stopped at the day before. He thought of the guy at the cash register that called him "cutie" and winked at him as he bought a candy bar for Sammy and beers for Dad with his fake ID. By Dad’s logic– which Dean trusted, of course–, that cashier, that queer, must've been sick in the head.

Then Dean remembered how his heart sped up, how his ears got hot, and how for a second he let himself think the cashier was kinda cute too. He realized he must also be sick in the head, and the thought was making him feel actually, physically sick. He felt like throwing up. Dad could never know.

Dean was fifteen years old when he learned that being gay actually wasn't something to be proud of.

---

2 - 2000

Dean was 21 years old when he learned the word “bisexual”. Dad had caught word of a ghoul case in lower Manhattan and sent Dean to take care of it. It was starting to get too hot and the streets were too crowded, but Dean was mostly glad to get a break from the constant fighting between Dad and Sammy.

Except it was June, and every time he turned a corner, there they were. The Pride parade flyers.

The second he spotted a rainbow he averted his gaze. He turned another corner and spotted another one. He avoided reading them at all costs. He heard Dad’s voice. Sick. Sick in the head.

For years now Dean had pretended he wasn’t sick. He pretended to not stare at Patrick Swayze too much whenever Dirty Dancing played on TV. He pretended like he didn't imagine what it would be like to kiss a guy, what stubble would feel like against his lips if he ever did.

He liked women. He could stick to women. He could live his whole life like that. And that meant he wasn’t totally sick, right? He wasn’t gay -gay if he liked girls.

But then what the hell was he? Would he even belong at one of these Pride things if he wanted to? He was probably a freak of nature. Even sicker than the rest of the bunch.

Curiosity got the best of him. He spared a glance at one of the flyers as he waited to cross the street.

Gays, lesbians, bisexuals, transexuals, ALL WELCOME

“Are you gonna go?” A voice next to him asked. ”It’s next weekend.” He was blond, pale, and a bit shorter than Dean.

“What? No! I don't swing that way,” Dean said, a bit too quickly and with too much bite.

The guy looked him up and down with a frown. “Geez, alright. Just askin’.”

He started to walk away, and Dean spoke up before he could stop himself.

“Hey man, wait.”

The guy stopped walking.

“Sorry, can I ask you something? Assuming you... know about this stuff?”

He seemed exasperated, but he turned anyway, willing to hear Dean out. Dean licked his lips, rubbed at the back of his neck, swallowed nervously. He couldn’t believe he was doing this, asking a stranger on the street about something so personal. At least the chances of meeting this person ever again were close to none.

“What’s bisexual?”

The guy’s features softened a bit. He seemed to understand something about Dean that so far Dean refused to acknowledge.

“It means you’re into more than one gender. And yes, you can do that,” the guy said. He flashed Dean a tight smile and then disappeared into the crowd.

Dean felt his hands go numb and balled them into fists, shoving them in his pockets. He took a deep breath through his nose. The guy said you. You are. You can.

The guy didn’t know what he was talking about. He knew nothing about Dean. He was wrong.

Or maybe he was right.

But he couldn’t be.

Dean couldn’t be… that.

Dean was 21 years old when he decided he wasn’t bisexual. He wasn’t anything. He was also 21 when he solved a case in record time (two days), just so he could book it out of New York before the next weekend arrived.

---

3 - 2004

By the time he was 25 years old, Dean knew he was bi. He hated it, he never spoke about it, and he ignored it as much as he could, but he was aware of it. And he knew he was bi because, at 25 years old, he’d already gone through two serious breakups, and they both equally sucked.

The first was Lee. He hunted with Dean and John for about a year, the second half of which Dean and Lee spent sneaking around and hooking up behind John’s back. It was fun, and hot, and exciting, and some of the best hookups he’d had up until that point in his life were with Lee.

But the thing is that it wasn’t just hooking up. They were close, and Dean liked him. A lot. They kissed for the first time after a particularly scary werewolf hunt in which Dean almost died, but John was more preoccupied with the mostly-unharmed victim than his own son. Dean and Lee rode in the backseat, bruised, bloody, and quiet. When John went to walk the victim up to her apartment, Lee reached over and placed a hand on Dean’s back, asking him if he was okay. Dean fell into Lee’s arms, and they kissed as they pulled away from the embrace, soft and comforting. It was Dean’s first kiss with a guy.

Lee was a lot of firsts for Dean over the next few months. But then John almost caught them once, drunk and making out in the Impala.

And then that case in Arizona went wrong, and Lee just couldn’t take it anymore. He packed up, swore off hunting, hugged Dean goodbye, and left him in the dust.

Dean needed to clear his head after that. He could barely look his dad in the eye after that close call, couldn't let him see the sorrow he was feeling. With every interaction, he imagined how John would yell at him, probably try to beat it out of him, if he noticed all he was feeling over Lee. Or worse, John could ignore him, practically disown him like he did Sam.

So he also packed up and left. Went hunting on his own for a while.

It was on one of those hunts that he met Cassie, and she was yet another handful of firsts for Dean over the course of a few months. She was amazing, and he fell hard and fast, but of course that went up in flames too.

Then again, he should've known better than to be honest. Honesty only ever got him in trouble.

He’d just left her back in Ohio and was working at a bar in Indianapolis for a few weeks to make some cash. He’d eventually meet back up with Dad. He just couldn’t right now. Not with Sam gone to college. Not after getting his heart broken twice over within a year.

He was hyper-aware of the end of June approaching. He knew it was coming, Indy had a pretty big celebration, and he made sure to be working all day that day so he wouldn't have to face it.

That was pointless, though. Toward the end of the day, a big group of about ten or twelve people who were clearly coming from the parade stumbled into the bar. One of them was apparently the owner’s little sister and they went there every year after the celebrations. They were loud, and obnoxious, and looked incredibly happy. Their happiness was contagious, and Dean loved serving them. He chatted them up, got to know them a bit, and heard all about the parade, all while staring down anyone at the bar who dared look their way with even the slightest stink eye.

But watching them that happy and comfortable, seeing not one, but two pairs of guys sloppily leaning against each other and sharing the occasional kiss while none of their friends seemed to bat an eye… something in Dean ached. Deeply.

Dean was 25 years old when he realized that a small part of him kind of, sort of, wanted to be part of this community. He couldn’t though. Not if he wanted to be on good terms with Dad. Not if he aimed to be the man Dad wanted him to be.

He left Indianapolis the next day.

---

4 - 2008

Dean was 29 years old and on his own personal highway to hell when he learned his brother went to a Pride parade before he ever did. They were driving through San José, the streets were lined with ads for Silicon Valley Pride, and Sam just casually decided to mention how fun it was the last time he went.

Thankfully they were at a red light, or else Dean probably would’ve slammed the breaks. He twisted to look at Sam head-on, his arm on the back of the seat.

“You what ?” he gawked.

Sam shrugged innocently. “What?”

“You went to one of these Pride things?”

“Yeah, dude.”

Dean’s brain was just trying and failing to load. “Why?” he finally asked.

“Jessica was in the GSA and some friends invited us. It was awesome.”

“She was in the what?”

“The G. S. A.,” Sam answered slowly. “Gay-Straight Alliance.”

“Oh.” Whatever that is, Dean thought. He kept eyeing the flyers. It was tomorrow.

“Green.”

“What?”

“Light’s green. Green means go.”

Dean rolled his eyes. "Shut up."

He kept driving and turned up the radio. Somebody To Love was playing, and as much as he liked Queen, he had to change the station. He tried to picture his little brother (his straight little brother) wearing rainbow face paint and having the time of his life at this thing. How come Sammy got to go when Dean could barely entertain the idea? Dean was the not-straight one. It wasn’t fair.

He channeled his jealousy into gripping the steering wheel.

“You okay, Dean?”

“Yeah.” No. “Yeah, m’fine.”

Dean was 29 years old when he died and went to hell without ever having gone to a Pride parade, knowing that his idiot ( straight! ) little brother already had.

---

5 - 2014

Dean was alive again and 35 years old (75, if you count hell) when he was formally invited to a Pride parade for the first time. It was a couple of days after that whole mess with Cas in Lucifer’s crypt, and he called Charlie. He just wanted to hear her voice, needed to know he was still on good terms with at least one of his best friends.

“So anyway,” Charlie said after a while of recounting what she’d been up to. "How single are you right now? My answer is: miserably."

Dean chuckled. Then he thought of Cas, and the smile disappeared. "Yeah, you and me both, sister."

“Would you mind coming with me to this thing next month? Going alone kinda sucks.”

Dean put the phone on speaker and placed it on the library table as he sat down with a beer. “What’s the thing?”

“Pride.”

Dean was glad no one was around to see him almost choke on his drink.

“You good?”

“Yeah, what was that?”

“Pride parade. Don’t have anyone to go with this year.”

“Why uh… Why? Why me?”

She knows.

“I dunno.”

She knows she knows she knows.

“You’re my friend, Dean. Thought maybe you might be interested. But never mind, I guess.”

And while all the alarms in Dean's head were blaring danger danger danger abort, he also hated to hear Charlie so disappointed.

“Hey, no, listen, Charlie, I… I would. Really. You know I support you, wholeheartedly." And that's obviously the only reason I would want to go. "But with Sam doing these trials, and Cas on the run with the angel tablet–”

“It’s okay Dean, I get it. Talk to you soon?”

“Yeah.”

And she hung up.

Dean knew, at this point, that there was nothing wrong with being queer. It wasn’t anything to be ashamed of, and it sure as hell didn’t mean you were wrong in the head or whatever.

But years of pretending to be a false version of yourself in an effort to please a man who was impossible to please wasn’t exactly an easy habit to break. As much as he wished it didn't, as much as he wished he could just exist, the thought of anyone finding out still made him sick to the stomach.

John’s voice still echoed in his ears. His words still drove Dean’s sense of self-worth and so many of his decisions. He tried to never stare at a good-looking guy for too long. He tried to not get too into it with Benny. He tried to keep his feelings for Cas at bay, tried to keep him at arm's length, tried to keep the fact that he was in love (deeply, stupidly in love) as close to his chest as he could.

Even that night at the crypt choking out the words to get through to Cas, he couldn’t bring himself to say what he meant. I love you, he’d wanted to say, because it was the truth. What came out, however, was I need you. And he did, he needed Cas more than air, but it wasn't quite everything.

It still got his heart split in two.

Was he so far gone over Cas that he couldn’t hide it? Had he been trying so hard and failing just as miserably this whole time? Was his attraction to dudes that obvious? Or did Charlie just have a sixth sense for this kinda thing?

It was probably the last one. He hoped it was.

Cas knew, for sure. Angels knew everything right? They could read minds, feel longing, or whatever. And if none of that ever tipped him off, well, Dean put it all on the line back in that crypt. He told Cas how he felt, told him he needed him, tried putting himself out there, and it got him left. Again. With Dean, it was always leave-or-get-left when it came to love. He was tired of it.

Dean was 35 years old, desperately in love with his best friend, and truly heartbroken for the third time in his life, when his other best friend– an out and proud lesbian– gave him a chance to go to Pride, to break through his shell, to finally embrace himself as he was; but because he was practically living in the closet, he couldn’t seem to find the handle after so many years of purposefully ignoring its existence, and he missed his chance. Besides, what was the point of going to a celebration of love without the love of his life by his side?

---

+1 - 2021

Dean is now 42 years old and the happiest he’s ever been. The love of his life? Cas? Turns out he’s felt the same way all along. They're kind of together now, and slowly but surely they’re working through a decade’s worth of shit.

They’ve been raising a kid together too, along with Sam and Eileen, and that kid is also God. After saving the world and whatnot, Jack decided to bring back some of their friends and family that died over the years: Mary, Kevin, Charlie. Yes, there are two Charlies now, but it’s not as confusing as you’d expect. (One is from another dimension, and the other one is Dean’s little sister. Simple.) Mary’s off hunting most of the time and Kevin’s applying to college.

They’ve got extended family now too, Jody and the girls. OG Charlie is staying with them for now, while she finds her footing. Most of that household is queer. Most of Dean's household is queer as well, actually. Turns out both Jack and Eileen are non-binary, Cas is gay in the broader sense of the word, and Dean…

Dean is bi. And everyone knows now.

Apparently, a lot of people had known for a long time. Sam has known since the siren back in ‘09 (even though Dean stands by the fact that it wasn’t like that, Sammy ), and everyone has slowly picked up on his and Cas’s thing over the years, so there’s that.

He still feels a bit weird about it. About calling Cas his boyfriend, about having the freedom to hold his hand in public, about the fact that they now have goddamn pride flags hung around the bunker. He feels even weirder about the fact that John’s voice in his head is now drowned out by the sounds of his home life, more lively and supportive than he ever expected to have.

He wasn’t expecting any of this, he didn’t think everything would change so fast. But when you spend the better part of your life pushing down such a huge part of you and then finally give yourself an out, a chance to show the people who love you who you really are, everything just... follows.

Love follows. Acceptance follows. Family follows. And he wasn’t really expecting any of it.

He certainly doesn’t expect it when Cas walks into the library after his weekly Thursday evening call with Claire and announces, matter-of-factly and with air quotes, “We’re going to "Pride" this weekend.”

Dean’s stomach drops. It’s the Sioux Falls Pride Parade and Festival, it’s in two days, and they’re leaving tomorrow to spend the night at Jody’s so they can all be there bright and early Saturday morning. Everyone immediately starts bustling about, packing and planning outfits and gathering flags to bring with them.

Dean just goes to his room– his and Cas’s now– to pack a small duffle.

Well, he means to. Instead, he takes out the duffle from the closet, puts it on the bed, and sits next to it for a while. An hour goes by. He thinks back to all those times he had brushes with one of these things and was just never in the right mindset. He’s not even sure he’s in the right mindset now, but he’s going. It’s happening.

“Jack’s all ready to go,” Cas says when he walks in. “We spent about half an hour putting together an outfit for Saturday. He wanted it to be as colorful as possible.”

Dean smiles, but it’s not all there. He looks at the empty duffle next to him.

“Yeah, I might need some help with that myself.”

Cas is in sweats and a hoodie. Yes it’s June, yes it’s hot, but he’s a quasi-angel, and the way he experiences the world Dean will never be able to wrap his head around. He walks over and stands in front of Dean, running a hand through his hair and down the side of his face until he’s cupping Dean’s jaw. Dean takes Cas’s hand and leaves a few kisses on the inside of his wrist, closing his eyes as he does.

Cas regards the empty bag and hums quietly, as if in thought, before walking over to their closet. Dean chases his hand, holding onto it until he’s completely out of reach. Cas starts searching, and Dean’s stomach knots more and more with each clang of the hangers. Cas finally pulls out a flannel from its hanger– purple with hints of blue and pink– and tosses it over. Dean can’t believe he didn’t think of it first.

They continue to pack in comfortable silence before changing and getting into bed. Dean doesn’t flop onto his stomach or cuddle into Cas’s side as he usually does; instead, he lies on his back and stares at the ceiling in a daze.

“Dean?” Cas’s voice snaps him out of it.

Dean turns his head and asks, automatically, “You okay?”

It’s a habit by now, asking each other that question. It’s part of the working-through-a-decade’s-worth-of-shit thing they’re doing. Turns out they share a whole lot of trauma. They share worries and insecurities. They share nightmares sometimes, mostly about the Empty.

“I’m okay,” Cas says, putting his hand on top of Dean’s heart for him to hold, and Dean can breathe a little easier.

“You nervous about this thing?” Dean asks, interlocking their fingers.

“The parade? No, not really.”

And then, because he's been working on communicating how he's feeling out loud or whatever, Dean looks back up at the ceiling and says, "I am. Kinda."

He feels Cas shifting and propping himself up on his elbow, and then he's in Dean's line of sight. Dean's gaze is drawn to him, like all of him has been since the moment they met, and Dean can't believe he just has this now. He has a boyfriend, and it's Cas, and he's looking down at Dean with stars in his eyes and a comforting smile that actually works because it's Cas.

And then Cas is leaning down and softly pressing their lips together, and that's also something Dean can’t believe he gets to do: kiss Cas good morning and good night and at any moment in between, kiss him I'm sorry, kiss him we're going to be okay, kiss him I love you.

"I love you too, Dean," Cas says once they've pulled away, and Dean didn't even realize he'd said it out loud, but it doesn't matter. "And you don't need to be nervous. I'll be there with you."

The thought should be a thousand times more nerve-wracking, not just going to Pride but going to Pride with Cas on his arm. It's not nerve-wracking at all, and he soon drifts off to sleep.

Friday goes by faster than it should. The six-hour drive to Sioux Falls, although packed in a car with five people, goes by in a blink. They stop for provisions before getting to Jody's, filling up on backpacks' worth of snacks.

They get to the house and are met with endless hugs and excitement to match. Patience, Alex, and Jody are already working on dinner for the bunch, while Charlie, Donna, and Kaia are running around prepping for the next day and dragging along a hesitant but nevertheless happy Claire. Dinner is chaotic and loud and there are way too many people at the table, and Dean has to step outside after a while.

He sits on the back porch steps. Claire joins him. She's holding a beer, he's not. He hasn't been drinking for a few months now. They don't talk, but she leans her head on his shoulder and they stay there a while, looking at the stars.

When they go back inside, Claire sits back down in her spot at Cas's left, across the table from Dean, and leans on his shoulder for a while too. It's her way of saying she cares, of saying I missed you without really saying it. Jack sits at Cas's right, talking excitedly with Patience about some tv show or other, and the image fills Dean with such fondness that he reaches over with his foot, presses it to Cas's ankle, and keeps it there for the rest of the night.

Dean, Cas, Jack, Sam, and Eileen spend the night spread out around in the living area while the girls sleep in their respective rooms, and Dean is only slightly less nervous as he falls asleep holding Cas’s hand.

---

The nerves all come flooding back as he’s parking the Impala the next morning.

They’re not able to get even remotely close to Phillips Avenue since the streets are so full. They park the three cars that all twelve of them came in as close as they can and then have to walk for another twenty minutes. From blocks and blocks away, people walk and holler and greet them excitedly, many of them trying to circle this swarm of flanneled individuals that are taking up a whole sidewalk. Granted, Dean and Claire are the only ones in their usual kind of outfit. The rest of the bunch is wearing as many colors as they could compile from their closets, half of them are wearing face paint, and the other half are carrying an assortment of pride flags.

They fit right in.

The walk toward the main avenue of the parade is kind of a blur for Dean. He knows he waved at a few people, some friends of Alex from high school joined the group at some point, and Jack already grabbed a snack from his backpack.

The actual parade is also kind of hazy. Getting out of the house that morning had been probably even more chaotic than the night before, so they’re a bit late and the parade has already been going for a good half hour. On top of that, they accidentally merge into it not quite at the starting point but a bit further down the road, in between a decked-out pickup truck and a group of people with dogs. Music is blaring, the dogs are all barking, a big float rides a few yards in front of them, and hundreds stand on the sidewalks recording on their phones and cheering them along.

Dean’s not sure they’re even supposed to be in the actual parade. Maybe they’re supposed to be on the sidewalks? Is this right? What is happening, what is he even doing here?

He doesn’t notice how heavy he’s breathing until Cas is squeezing his hand and beckoning him to meet his eyes. He does, and the blue in them, as imposing as the Atlantic, drowns out everything else around them. “You’re okay, my love,” Cas says. It’s a fact. As long as Dean is with him, he’s okay.

On his other side, Dean feels someone link their arm around his. It’s Charlie, and she’s beaming at them, her cheeks almost as red as her hair. It brings Dean back to reality, grounds him, but he’s okay now. He’s not alone, and he’s meant to be here.

He’s proud to be here.

The parade leads up to a sloping park, and at the lowest point of it, there’s a stage where Dean assumes someone will MC for the afternoon, or maybe perform. It’s grandiose in its simplicity, kind of like a Greek theater, with everyone settling down on the grass around it, expectantly.

“We’ll be right back,” Dean hears Sam say, and he turns to find they’re all set to spend the afternoon, towels laid and backpacks off (save for his). “Jack wants to go meet the drag queens,” Sam says with just a bit too much glee before he and Jack take off.

“It’s not just Jack,” Eileen smiles and follows.

Cas is already sitting, eating one of the PB&Js he packed as lunches for everyone. Jody and Donna are settling down as well and Charlie’s taking a dozen pictures, but the rest of the girls are all standing. “We’re gonna go check out the vendors,” Claire announces, and they start to take off as well.

“Be careful, please!” Dean calls after them, but they pay him no mind. He turns to Charlie. “Hey, your majesty, keep an eye on them will you?”

She smiles, bows gracefully, and heads in the same direction.

Jody stands and grabs Dean by the arm, beckoning him to talk in private for a second.

“What’s up?”

If Dean knows Jody at all, and he does, they’re on the brink of a mom talk.

“Look around, Dean.”

“What for?”

“Just look,” she says, rolling her eyes. “Please?”

So, at her request, Dean starts taking in the environment. Now that everyone is gathered, he can actually see all the people that came out (heh) for the event. There are church groups, pet shelters, skateboarders, and rollerskaters. Drag queens are already taking pictures by the stage, and at least two people are wearing unicorn heads. A few vendors’ tents and food trucks surround the park, and rainbows completely dominate the scenery. There are elders, and kids, and all kinds of families and couples, and everyone looks… happy. Free.

And Dean is here with them. He is one of them.

There’s no danger, no monsters of any kind. No one to judge him, hurt him, call him sick in the head.

He finds Claire’s blonde head amongst the sea of shoppers at the edge of the park. She’s holding hands with Kaia and has one of the biggest smiles Dean has ever seen on her face. There’s no shame in it, and she’s not in any danger either. Things are different now, and she has the freedom to be herself that he never had at her age.

He has it now too. He can be himself.

Dean doesn’t realize he’s about to cry until Jody pulls him down into a hug.

“Dean, I am so proud of you.”

And then he cries.

---

They spend the afternoon laying on the grass, eating, drinking, and enjoying the festivities. The girls come back from the vendors’ tents after a full hour, and most of the bags on their arms are Charlie’s. She gets Cas a mug that says bee yourself in rainbow colors with an image of a cartoon bee, and she gets Dean a button pin that says AC/DC in pink and blue. There’s a meaning behind that apparently, and Dean decides he’ll look it up later.

Jack memorizes all the drag queen’s names. Donna takes a million pictures. They trade numbers with a few people.

There’s a big fireworks show just after sundown. It starts to get windy and a bit chilly, so Dean grabs the nearest pride flag and wraps it around himself. Cas, the perpetual freak who just doesn’t feel temperature apparently, is wearing a t-shirt and shorts and smiling at him unabashedly.

“What?”

“That’s the bisexual flag.”

So it is. “Shut up,” Dean says, but he’s smiling too. “You want in on this?”

He doesn’t wait for Cas to respond before he wraps it around his shoulders as well. The fireworks continue.

“You know,” Cas says after a beat. “As beautiful as they are, pyrotechnics are extremely damaging to the environment.”

Dean can’t help but laugh because of course, Cas would say something like that in a moment like this. He laughs and laughs and regrets being the only one to have heard that; then again, he’s the only one who could’ve found that funny.

He laughs a bit more, wipes a tear, and sees that Cas is still just solemnly watching the show.

“Cas?”

“Yes, Dean?” He replies and then turns his head.

Dean wants to kiss him. He wants to kiss him so bad. Then he remembers where he is, physically and in his life right now, realizes whom he’s surrounded by at this very second, and decides that he can.

So he does. It’s not unlike the way he kissed Cas when they rescued him from the Empty. Granted, there’s less sweat, blood, adrenaline. But just like that day, they’re both on the ground, and the gesture catches Cas by surprise. Just like that day, Dean pulls Cas in gently by the back of his neck and there’s no hesitance or fear. Just like that day, he just does it, presses their lips firmly together, and relishes in the taste of Castiel, in the feeling of the person he loves most in this world kissing him back.

The one big difference is this: that day marked the beginning of the rest of his life. Today? Today is just Dean’s first Pride.

350 notes · View notes

ijenoyou · 3 years

Text

It’s you again. one.

bucky barnes x stark!reader.

summary; when Bucky sees you again a few months after the blip he can’t help but remember his past lover.

warnings; spoilers from the serie hehe prob angst & fluff ig lol mentions of tony’s death

notes; soooo it’s been a while since i’ve written something sooo this might suck ass lol anyways remember english isn’t my first language sooo yeah enjoy :D

You were too tired to keep your eyes open, your body kept on swaying until you finally gave up making your head land on Bucky’s shoulder. His conversation with Sam getting interrupted when he felt your arms hug his metal arm.

Sharon had a smirk on her face and decided to start getting prepared for a meeting she had. “I have stuff to do so why don’t you guys enjoy the party? And don’t cause any trouble.” She said before leaving the room.

Sam stood up and began walking towards the door with Zemo following him. “You coming?” He asked his new partner.

“Uh, yeah, just let me lay her down.” Bucky answered and took your head carefully, guiding your body to lay properly on the couch, you were still holding onto his arm so he took one of the matching cushions of the couch and gave it to you so your arms could let go of his.

He took his jacket off and decided to cover you with it, making sure your back and arms were under it. He softly smiled and placed a piece of hair behind your ear so it wouldn’t tickle your face.

After that he turned around and saw both Sam and Zemo looking at him a subtle smirk. “What?”

“I’ve never seen you being so gentle.” He mocked gaining a groan from Bucky. “What’s up with that? Since the whole mission started you have been acting weird, is it because of Stark?”

“Depends on which one you’re talking about.” Bucky took one last glance at your sleeping figure.

“Her.”

Sighing, Bucky massaged his temple. “I need a drink first.”

*･ﾟ｡*･ﾟ｡*･ﾟ｡*･ﾟ｡*･ﾟ｡*･ﾟ｡*･ﾟ｡*･ﾟ｡*･ﾟ｡*･ﾟ｡*･ﾟ｡*･ﾟ｡

Back on Zemo’s private jet you decided to give everyone the cold shoulder, angry at them for leaving you without saying anything or at least leaving a note. You could’ve helped them with the hundreds of mercenaries that attacked them. Zemo placed a plate with food on it in front of you and gave you a small smile, trying to make you feel at ease.

Walking down the street with Zemo like nothings wrong made you feel on edge. Thinking that maybe the new copy of Steve would appear and make things harder but you kept on wishing that it wouldn’t be the case. Zemo lead the group to a unknown building.

“I’m gonna go on a walk.” Bucky said out of nowhere.

“Take Y/N with you, don’t what could happen.” Sam said and took your shoulder.

You rolled your eyes. “Sam, he can take care of himself.” Taking his hand off your shoulder you began walking to the buildings door, leaving everyone behind.

“See you guys in a bit.”

He came back after a few minutes and started talking about how the wakandians are looking for Zemo.

All of this mess made you wonder why were you there in the first place. Sure, you had nothing to do since your father died and also coming back after 5 years, didn’t help at all. But maybe you were there because Sam called, he was the only one who tried to search for you when you decided to disappear.

“Your TT would be proud of you.” Zemo’s voice brought you back into reality after watching their whole conversation and play it on your mind.

“What’s a TT?” You asked with furrowed eyebrows.

“Whatever, we need to get moving.” Sam spoke dismissing the question you made.

You weren’t sure if the plan would work, searching for Donya was harder that you could think of and it definitively made you wonder what could go wrong if anyone from the group made a mistake. And losing your powers didn’t help the situation at all. But that’s a secret. Nobody knows you lost them and the most important thing, nobody knows you’re slowly dying. So maybe that’s one of the reasons you decided to help Sam, doing a last mission until your body gives up. You just hoped you get to finish the mission and not die in the middle of it.

But now, you had to worry about another thing. And that is John Walker, getting himself in things he doesn’t understand nor is involved in. Waiting for Sam next to him wasn’t the best moment in your life, the only thing you could do was stare at him with dislike written on your face.

Feelings like your skins burned you decided to start rubbing the sides of your neck and Bucky didn’t let that pass through blind eyes.

“Are you okay?” Bucky asks with a bit of concern filling his voice.

“Uh, yeah.” You cleared your throat. “I’m probably getting sick, don’t worry.”

Before Bucky could say anything else, Walker decided to put the mission on risk and walk inside the building Sam and Karli were having a conversation. You extended your hand to hold John by the shoulder.

“Why don’t you go and take a seat? You’re going to ruin the plan if you walk inside.” You spoke, trying to hold in the pain and burning under your skin.

John pushed you and entered the building.

And just like that, the whole situation became a mess. Ruining and shouting, the only thing you had become used to in these days.

The Dora Milaje were now your only solution. And they definitely know how to make a good entrance.

“Why don’t you relax pal?” You said to John before he gets himself hurt by the Dora Milaje, but it was too late, he placed his hand on Ayo’s shoulder. Big mistake.

You decided to sit back and watch them fight, you and Zemo exchanged looks, you gave him a nod, letting him go to the bathroom and possibly run away.

“I told you to relax, it’s what you deserve for being an ass.” You spoke with mock towards John.

Before the Dora Milaje could leave, Ayo turned her head to you and extended her hand, which was holding a stick, just like the ones the Dora Milaje use but it looked different.

“Here, Shuri told me to give it to you.” You took it and placed on your back.

Now it was only Sam, Bucky and you.

You were too tired to keep going, there’s was no point in being there without powers, you could barely fight and it made you angry. But what made you feel even worse is that you didn’t know what was causing it and seeing your body fill in with different colored lines brought back some bad memories.

Tony was well-know for not sharing his feelings or thoughts. And that made it harder for you to help him. Being at a young age didn’t matter, you did understand what was happening to him, slowly dying by the toxins coming from his reactor.

Seeing the lines in his neck will always haunt you for the rest of your life. The worst part of it is that you couldn’t tell anyone about it, he made you promise not to tell Pepper or Happy and that also caused you some trauma. He made you believe you couldn’t vent out your problems to your family or friends. You didn’t have anyone. Not even Pepper. You decided not to bother her or Morgan with the “My adoptive dad died and I have no one else” act. So it was really hard to say anything to Bucky or Sam, you didn’t want them to know that your body is not the same since you fought against Thanos.

“Go to Sarah’s, I’ll tell her to receive you back at home, okay?” Sam took both of your shoulders. “You don’t look so well, let Buck and I finish this and then call me when you feel better.”

You nodded and decided to leave immediately. Before you could go, Bucky took your arm, grabbing your attention.

“Be careful, if something happens call me immediately.” He said in a serious tone. You pushed his hand off you and muttered a small yes.

Bucky’s eyes didn’t leave your figure until it disappeared behind doors. Sighing he took a seat on the coach.

“I think it’s time for you to tell me what’s happening between you and Y/N.” Sam demanded while crossing his arms.

Nodding, Bucky tapped the seat next to him, indicating Sam to sit there so he could start speaking.

“I’ve known her even before the mess at the airport started.” Bucky started to slowly speak. “Or at least her face.”

“What are you talking about?”

“Y/N, she looks like someone I used to know back in the 40s, her name was Sophia.” He explained with clear pain showing in his eyes. “Sophia and I met while I was preparing to become a soldier, she was a nurse back then.”

“What happened to her?” Sam asked with wonder running in his mind. He wanted to ask more questions about this person.

“Died of old age. I fell in love with her, but never saw Sophie again, after Steve rescued me I tried searching for her but nobody knew what happened to her and just decided not to tell anyone about it.”

“Not even Steve?”

Bucky shook his head and sighed. “When I saw Y/N back at the airport I thought my mind was playing games with me and that’s why I never touched her when Y/N and Tony decided to go against Steve and I.”

Sam patted his friends back, trying to bring him some kind of comfort but it didn’t help.

“And I’m just frustrated because I don’t know why she looks like Sophie, I asked the wakandians if they could find any information about Sophie and they found about her family, she had two kids and one of them had a girl.” Bucky bit his lips, trying to see if he could continue the story.

“You don’t have to tell me everything Buck, if it’s hard for you then you ca—“

Bucky’s voice interrupted him. “It’s fine. You see, everyone knows Tony adopted her, so it felt like there only was one answer. She had to be the daughter of Sophie’s children but then it was another death end. I recently found out that she’s not from Sophie’s family. It’s just fate I guess.”

“Maybe the destiny is giving you another chance to be with her.” Sam tried to give a good answer to him after what he said.

“I don’t think so but if it is that way, then I don’t deserve it”

#bucky x y/n #bucky x female reader #bucky x reader #bucky x you #bucky barnes x reader #bucky barnes x stark!reader #bucky barnes x you #bucky barnes angst #winter soldier x reader #marvel scenarios #mcu fanfiction #mcu x reader

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bwoahtastic · 2 years

Note

omg but imagine if one of the first more 'intimate' moments where they get a bit closer is max letting Daniel touch his baby bump - Daniel will be so in awe, especially because max hissed at him for touching his bump the first time and ever since that he has been super careful to never overstep any boundaries and touch Max too much (although he really just wants to hold max and never let go again)

Like one night they're in the living room, Michael and Lando are out on a date night and so Daniel was like, let's just watch a movie or a show, Noah can pick whatever he wants. And at some point Max starts shuffling around a bit, pressing his hands to his bump and wincing a bit. Daniel instantly sits up straighter and is like, "Max? What's wrong, is it the baby? Do you need anything?" cause look, he has no idea how to deal with an omega who might go into labor, nuh uh. Max only smiles at him, telling him that it's just the pup kicking, he's fine.

Daniel going "oh." and leaning back again, but Max notices that for some reason the alpha is twitchy the next while, fiddling with his fingers and he keeps stealing glances at max. So after some time max hesitantly dares to ask because it's only the two of them (+Noah who is wholeheartedly into the movie) and he feels safe, "Do you want to feel it?"

Daniel going "Huh?" sksksk bc braincells? What are those when Max is around?

Max patiently asking again "I asked if you - if you'd like to feel them kick? The pup."

Daniel will be all like 👉🏻👈🏻, "May I? You don't have to do that if you don't like that, it's fine-"

And Max simply gestures him over, carefully taking Daniel's hand and guiding it under the shirt (that's actually one of Daniel's) to rest them against his bump. That alone would make Daniel's heart race in his chest and his eyes so big as he stares back at Max in wonder. When the pup does kick and he can actually feel it underneath his palm he is just so stunned and like 🥺🥺

Him telling Max in a high pitched voice "Wait that was the pup? Holy crap that's-" and like, how did he even get to this point? A month ago or so he thought he'd maybe never be a dad after all, or find his mate but right now - right now he thinks he might have just done that

And Max just deadpans, "No, Daniel, sometimes my ribs just dislocate and poke me from the inside out. Yes, that was the pup."

(this is so long AGAIN I'm so sorry I just can't stop thinking about this au sksksk)

AAHAHH SO CUTE

Noah spending a good 10 minutes carefully looking through the movies he can choose from before choosing a Disney movie he had never seen before 🥺

And little Noah is laying on his tummy on a pillow in front of the the and just compelte engrossed in the movie! But Max is a little uncomfortable cos the music seems to make Sophie want to dance and he is being kicked like crazy sjdksj.

Poor Dan absolutely losing his little braincell but being so worried and just needing to know if he needs to cal the doctor and Max just softly chuckles and shifts around a bit before explaining the pup is just kicking 🥺

Daniel would not want to ask if he can feel it but holy shit he really really wants to jdjdjd. But as always he doesn't want to overwhelm Max so instead he just stares a bit and tries to keep his excitement under control until Max just chuckles and let's him feel🥺

And nnggg Max wearing one of Dan's shirt cos they are so soft and fit over his belly and Noah loves them too, and then he would blush so much with Dan's hand on his bare skin and he just loves the soft look in Dan's eyes as the pup kicks😭

And sjdjjd sassy max!!! Daniel would love that do fucking much omgg sjdje

Also bonus points if the pup instantly calms when Dan's hand is on the bump, and she does stretch so Dan can feel her but she doesn't full on party in Max's belly anymore!

And it's just so sweet and Max makes sure Dan keeps his hand there while he just shyly let's himself cuddle closer to Dan and smiles when the Aloha is rumbling like crazy!

Also Dan eventually pulling away but only to lay down on his belly on the floor with Noah and Noah is just happily babbling away at him about the movie! And that's what lando and Michael see when they get back and Lando instantly cuddles up with Max while Michael gently kisses Max's forehead, as if to silently giving him permission to court the other Aloha he has been keeping alive cjejxjjejx

#asks #runaway au: baby boom

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animerunner · 3 years

Note

?;:,,:&((? people with adhd are allowed to be in relationships what the hell are you going on about

Anon love.

One: I HAVE DIAGNOSED ADHD.

Two: I have absolute not the faintest idea where you got that from my post.

You completely missed the point of that post so spetacularly. And I am being reminded of why people on this site have to say reading comprehension is important.

Because at no point in that post did I say one I did not want Lumity. I find the idea cute.

However what I did say was that Luz needs time to process her feelings. And the fandom needs time to let it happen.

You want to know why we know she hasn’t done this.

This answer from Dana’s AMA in September:

Three:...you DO know these two aren’t in an actual relationship in canon right? This, this right here

Is the closest thing we have to them doing something relationship-y

Four: me not wanting them to kiss when Luz hasn’t acknowledged the feelings. And this happens three episodes prior:

And is bound to cause problems between the two.

Also y'al really, really don't know what its like to have everyone your age consider yourself a 'werido'. Strange. Someone not worthy of being friends with.

Which is great that you have never experienced that pain.

But that also means you don't know what that's like for Luz. You can speculate. You can conjecture. But you have no idea of how lonely and painful that is. Even if you learn to mask it like both myself and Luz did.

You want to know why I know what its like? My school was so bad that at one point it was featured on a documentary tor bullying. Yes it was that bad.

My entire female half of the class was bullying me. And mind you in a class of 30 something there were only five guys. So I had 20 odd girls picking on me at once. Among other things I dealt with: 1. Having my clothes thrown out during gym.

2. Getting called names.

3. Having a guy physically jump over me in said gym class.

4. No teacher to turn too. No safe space.

5. Having a mental break down when having to deal with going back because me, the kid who loved school, didn't want to go back.

6. Getting teased over my haircut.

And this happened over three months. THREE MONTHS. Before the advent of the internet. Social media. etc. So I was alone.

It got so bad that for years I hated when people called me Sophie instead of Sophia. Since Sophie was the ringleader.

Luz has most certainly had some sort of impact on dealing with that for years. And y'all need to get your heads out of the sand and acknowledge that there are bullying victims on this show.

Finally: Luz is not the only one to sort through issues. Amity's parents have been showing to be controlling. And while my rents have gotten as they got older. And are not on Amity's level.

That kind of shit has an impact on your relationships.

Amity has to make the decision to actively step out of her parents shadow before anything can happen between the two of them. Yes she's made stride in the right direction thanks to Willow and the grudgby match.

But most likely at this point she hasn't made a stand against them yet.

To wrap it all up: Let Luz and Amity grow into their relationship. And stop conflating me wanting this with 'blah blah your saying mental illness'. WHEN ITS NOT. Yes her ADHD will have an impact and this needs to be acknowledged. ESPECIALLY WITH THE OWL HOUSE.

Since again y'all like to ignore this but there are a lot of chronic illness/disabiltiy parallel. And having ADHD will have an impact.

But maybe we should be talking about the fact that you looked at my post and decided that addressing ADHD means no relationship. Because that is not a healthy attitude and extremely black and white ALSO STOP PUTTING WORDS IN MY MOUTH I NEVER SAID.

#actually adhd #the owl house #lumity #luz noceda #amity blight

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atlafan · 4 years

Text

Office Neighbors - Part Eleven

a/n: another part where a lot happens, I think you all will be happy the little surprise at the end, enjoy! (reblogs and feedback are super helpful!) not proofread, sorry!

warnings: slight angst?, fluff, and smut

words: 13.8K

masterpost

Another school year down, you couldn’t believe it. Two entire years done, and only more until it’s your turn to walk across the stage. Now that it was getting nicer out, your new favorite to work was the back deck, especially when Harry would come out and bring you a glass of wine. It wasn’t lost on you how much he doted on you. If you got cold, he was right there with a blanket and your fuzzy socks, if you were hungry he was right there with a snack. There was plenty you did for him, or that you did equally, like laundry and cooking and cleaning, but it was hard not to notice the way her almost…babies you.

Now, most of the time, men were the ones that liked to be babied in relationships, and that’s not to say that Harry doesn’t. He loves when he gets to lay his head on your chest and you play with his hair, or when you scrub his head in the shower, or the mornings you get up before him and lay his clothes out for him. You both took care of each other in different ways, which was nice, but he was used to taking care of someone in a parental way.

Harry was extremely different at work, though. He didn’t want to give students or colleagues a reason to tease either of you, so despite his clingy nature, he wouldn’t be too kissy or huggy with you. He was thankful that the school year was over so he could love on you all he wanted.

He had his own work as well, he had his latest manuscript. He would try to work when you were working, but sometimes he got writer’s block, or inspiration would hit at an odd hour. You loved watching him work, and if it was the middle of the night with him working away, you’d crawl into his lap and tell him it was time for bed. To which he happily listened.

It was weird being home while Andy was still in school, but it left you with plenty of time to plan his party. This year his party would be at your house since it was at Paige’s last year. You wanted to make sure there were tons of yard games for all the kids to play, and also things for the adults to do. You and Andy started crafting a playlist together that Harry was not allowed to help with because “no one my age wants to listen to Fleetwood, get over it!” was an argument you were sick of listening to, plus it was nice to have something to do together.

“Okay, we’ve got horseshoes, badminton, water balloons, and corn-hole, that should plenty of things for people to do back here.” You say as you look around the yard. Andy and Harry were just getting the badminton net into place.

“We also have a volleyball in case they wanna play that instead.” Harry says. “And we’ve got all the snacks in the world to keep everyone happy until I get to grilling.”

“So is this less of a family party?” You ask him.

“Little bit, I mean, Lydia, Allie and Ned will be here, but that’s it for Paige’s side. There’s more friends coming this year, that’s for sure.”

“I’m getting the Bluetooth going so there’s music when people start to show up.” Andy says. “I’m really excited, Caroline’s sisters are coming, and they’re really nice.”

“Is her oldest still coming to the university in the fall?” You ask.

“Yup.” He smiles.

Andy and Caroline had remained…close oddly enough. Brandon was still with Molly, and Andy couldn’t quite figure out why. Although, it was giving him more time to sort out all of his feelings. He really didn’t want to be in a relationship just yet. He just wanted to have fun with his friends.

“I hope they’re not bored here.” Harry runs a hand through his hair.

“The corn-hole should keep them occupied, babe, don’t worry.”

“What are their names again?” Harry asks.

“Emma is the oldest, then Sophie and Charlotte.”

“Right, the twins.”

“I’m gonna go put the sign on the door to let people know they can just come to the back.” You say.

“I’ll tie the balloons to the mailbox!” Andy says and Harry sighs as he watches him go inside.

“What’s wrong?” You ask Harry as you walk up the stairs to the deck.

“Nothing…he’s just…twelve.” He pouts at you and you pout back.

“Please don’t cry.”

“I’m not.” He huffs. “He’s getting too old, I’m over this whole growing up thing.”

“But look at what a nice young man he’s growing into!” You put your hand on his shoulder. “Try to celebrate instead of dwell.”

“What are we, at a funeral?” He smirks.

You roll your eyes at him and go inside. The house was spick and span, thank god. This summer you’d be tackling renovating the kitchen since Andy would be at Paige’s. You were excited to do this with Harry. The new cabinets and granite were all ordered. You both just needed to do all the demo yourselves and then the contractors could come to do the rest.

“Mum and Noah are here!” Andy yells from outside, and you and Harry go out front to greet them.

“I…I promised myself I wouldn’t cry, but look at you, you’re twelve!” Paige blubbers and throws her arms around Andy.

“Mum, please.” He groans as he hugs her back.

“None of your friends are here yet, I get to do this now.” She kisses his cheek and lets him go. “Gram will be here soon with your aunt and uncle.”

“Happy birthday, Andy!” Rachel says brightly as she hops out of the car, giving him a hug.

All it took was for Paige and Harry to make eye contact and they both burst into tears. They side hug each other as they both look at Andy.

“He’s so grown up, and I swear he’s getting taller by the minute.” She says.

“It’s not fair, he was a baby just yesterday.”

“You two need to get a grip.” Andy says.

“Yeah.” Rachel agrees. “I’m getting second-hand embarrassment.”

The two giggle and start walking around back. You and Noah stand there awkwardly as Paige and Harry let each other go.

“Right, well, we, uh, brought some extra snacks, and all the gifts are in the trunk.” Noah says.

“I can help bring all that in.” You say. “What do you all typically do for Rachel’s birthdays?” You ask him as you lead him inside.

“Well, we usually go to Florida to visit with her grandparents. She loves it. Sort of a daddy-daughter thing.”

“Oh, that’s so nice!”

“Yeah, her birthday’s in October, so the weather is usually perfect.”

Friends and other family members start to show up. Andy was such a social butterfly. You could really tell that he was popular amongst his friend group. He was making everyone laugh. All of the yard games were a big hit, and Caroline’s older sisters even seemed to be having a good time. You were up on the deck sipping a drink when Harry came up from behind you to hug you.

“Having a good time, darling?” He says to you.

“Yes, thank you.” You chuckle. “Are you?”

“Mhm, I’m really glad the weather stayed so nice, I was nervous it would rain.” He kisses your cheek. “I’m gonna get the grill fired up.”

“Alright, do you want some help?”

“Maybe if you could just help me organize the food out here on the table? We could set it up buffet style.”

“On it.” You head inside as Harry turns the grill on.

Harry was feeling a lot of things today, his son was officially a preteen, and all sorts of things could start changing for him this summer. He could start to see pimples, or his voice may start getting lower, or pretty much anything else. Then there was you. Harry usually had to recruit another parent to help him with his parties for Andy, but he didn’t have to do that this time because he had you. You were on top of everything, and he was grateful. He was also just proud to show you off to so many people. For years everyone saw him as this single dad, but now they got to see him in a fully functioning relationship with a wonderful person.

“Okay, here’s all the burgers and dogs.”

“Y/N!” You whip your head and see your parents, Phil, and Julian.

“Oh good!” You say and head down the stairs of the deck to go greet them. “Did you get stuck in traffic?” You ask as you hug your family.

“Just a tad.” Phil says. “There was an accident on the other side, and you know how people love to rubber-neck.”

“Well, you’re here now, that’s all that matters. Feel free to go inside and freshen up, Harry’s just getting the grill started, but there are other snacks, and there’s drinks in the coolers.”

As you were talking Noah and Paige were playing a game of corn-hole with Ned and Allie.

“Oh, who’s that?” Noah points over to you.

“That must be her parents and brother, and his partner. How nice for them all to come!”

“Just don’t pounce on them Paige.” Allie tells her.

“What are you talking about? I’ll be friendly…”

“I’m not saying you won’t, just let her bring them over to introduce you, don’t go over to them first.”

You lead your family inside, after they all say hello to Harry. You wanted to give them a tour of the place you now called home. You explain your plans for the kitchen, and they all nod along.

“It’s a lovely home, honey.” Your mom says. “Very spacious, plenty of room to grow.”

“Yeah! The basement couch has a pull out in case we need to turn the guest room into a nursery at some point, and the loft could easily be converted into a bedroom too.”

“Slow down there, you just moved in.” You dad chuckles.

“I’m just saying, we’ve thought ahead.”

You lead everyone back outside, and down the stairs. Andy notices your family and smiles, he had no idea they were coming. He runs over to you.

“Andy, look who’s here.” You say to him.

“Hi!” He gives everyone a hug. “Thanks for coming to my party.”

“We wouldn’t miss it!” Your mom says. “You’re twelve today?”

“Yeah.” He smiles. “Would you like to meet my friends?”

“Sure.” Phil says.

Andy waves over Brandon and Caroline, and they both come jogging over.

“You guys, these are Y/N’s parents, um…”

“Rebecca and Richard.” Your dad says with a smile.

“Right, and this is her big brother Phil and his Julian.”

Phil and Julian smile at each other and say hello.

“These are my two best friends, Brandon and Caroline.”

Brandon felt bile in the back of his throat. Since when did Andy consider Caroline to be his other best friend?

“Hey, Andy, your friend Tyler…” Rachel had come over but she trails off.

“Rachel, these are my parents and my brothers.” You tell her.

“Hello!” She smiles brightly. “I’m Andy’s step-sister.”

“Well aren’t you just a precious little thing!” Your mom says.

“You’re Jewish like me, right?”

“Why yes we are.” Your dad says.

“When we went on our ski trip together, Y/N sat with me and helped with my alefbet.”

“She was pretty good at reading from the Torah as a kid.” Phil says. “I wasn’t so lucky.”

“You just never studied.” You tease him.

“Not all of us can be book worms, Y/N.” He sighs.

“My mum’s over there…” Andy points. “Do you all want to meet her?”

“That would be great.” Your dad says. You look back at Harry who was talking with Mr. Stewart as he grilled, and then you look over towards Paige.

“Yeah, let’s have everyone meet.” You say and lead them over. “Paige? I hate to interrupt the game…”

“Not at all!” She says with a smile. “Hello.” She says towards your family.

“These are my parents, Rebecca and Richard, my brother Phil, and his partner Julian.”

“It’s so nice to meet you all, I’m Andy’s mother, this is my fiancé, Noah, and my sister Allie and her husband Ned.”

Everyone shakes hands. The kids had run off to go play, so it was just the adults right now.

“We absolutely adore Andy.” Your mom tells Paige. “He’s a sweet boy.”

“Oh, thank you.” She smiles. “He raved about those paints you got him, he uses them all the time.” Out of the corner of her eye, Paige spots Lydia and waves her over. “This is my mother, Lydia. Mum, these are Y/N’s parents, and brothers.”

“Nice to meet all of you.” She smiles to the best of her ability and shakes their hands.

“Well, I need to go see what else Harry needs help with, so I’ll leave you grown-ups to chat.”

“We’ll help too.” Phil says. “I am a chef after all.” He tugs Julian along, full well knowing how nasty Lydia can be from what you’ve told them. Your parents could easily handle it. “She looks too nice to be a bitch.” Phil smirks.

“Trust me, she has her moments, although, she doesn’t make many comments too me anymore.” You smirk back.

All of the kids enjoy the freshly grilled food that they were ravenous for. After lunch was the balloon toss. Harry pairs up with Andy, just like last year, and you decide to participate with Phil.

“I swear, if you whip this thing at me…” He says as you’re still relatively close.

“Don’t be such a baby. It’s a trust exercise if anything.”

“Mhm, exactly.”

“I prank you with one whoopee cushion and-“

“You did that in front of my prom date!”

“Well, good thing you’re gay or else I’d be more concerned that I embarrassed you in front of her.”

Phil bursts out laughing as you continue to toss the balloon. He ends up dropping it at one point, which disqualifies you. Caroline and Rachel are out next, and then Tyler and Alexis. Brandon has paired up with his dad, and it was down to the four of them again. Mr. Stewart drops the balloon at the last second, which causes for Andy and Harry to be champs once again.

Once everyone settles a bit, it’s time for cake and gifts. Andy’s friends got him some good gift certificates and other little things.

“A new skateboard!” Andy beams. “Thanks, Noah.”

“You’re welcome, buddy.” Noah smiles proudly. Things were going really well recently between him and Andy. “That’s from my parents, they send their love.” Andy nods at him.

Next up you had passed him the gift your family brought him. You had no idea what it could be.

“Holy shhhh-cow.” Andy corrects himself as he tears the wrapping paper open. “A home pottery kit?!”

“Y/N mentioned to us how much you enjoy the clay in your art classes, and we found this for kids.” Your mom explains. “Do you like it?”

“I love it! Thank you so much.”

Lydia had gotten him some new ski equipment which he was grateful for. You give your family a thumbs up. The last gift was one from you, Harry, Paige, and Noah as it cost a pretty penny. It was just in an envelope. He opens it carefully, and his eyes widen, nearly welling up with tears.

“No way.” He looks at the four of you.

“What is it, Andy?” Brandon asks.

“Three tickets to the Ariana Grande concert and…a pass for a meet and greet.”

“Whoa!” Caroline exclaims. “That’s incredible!”

Andy stands up and gives everyone a hug, thanking you all profusely.

“Think this’ll hold you over until you get a phone next year?” Paige asks him.

“Definitely.”

He knew the three tickets implied that he could bring a friend with him, and the obvious choice was Caroline. Brandon didn’t mind Ari, but it was something that Andy and Caroline really bonded over. He could talk to her about it later.

The party was a huge success, and Andy was feeling super happy. It was nice for him to see so many people interacting.

“Well, we better get going since it’s getting late.” Paige says to him, giving him a big hug and kiss. “I’m so glad you had a good birthday, baby.”

“Me too, thanks again for everything, Mum.”

He says goodbye to Noah, Rachel, Allie, Ned, and Lydia as well. Then he takes his time saying goodbye to your family. Needless to say he was pooped by the time everyone left.

“When can I use the pottery kit?” He asks Harry as he cleans some things in the kitchen.

“I can set it up in the garage one of these weekends and you can go to town.”

“Alright!” Andy exclaims. “I’m gonna go to bed early I think, I’m tired, but thanks for everything today.”

“You’re welcome, but don’t just thank me.” He nods towards you and Andy gives you a hug.

“Thanks, Y/N.”

“You’re welcome, sweetheart.”

He lets you go and heads to his room. Once his door is closed Harry yanks you towards him and you giggle.

“Laugh all you want, but I’m going to ravage you tonight.”

“Oh?”

“Mhm.” He ghosts his lips along your jawline before kissing on your neck, sucking a little making you moan softly. “You were incredible today. Well, you’re incredible every day, but…everything just meant a lot to me.”

“I really feel like we’re a family, you know? I love it so much, more than I ever thought I would.”

Harry kisses you, a little more passionately than you were expecting, but it was still nice.

“Go on into the bedroom, I’ll be in after I finish with the dishes.”

“Nonsense, I can help.”

“Don’t be silly, I’ve got it.”

“Harry, I can help with the dishes.”

“I know you can, and you usually do, but you don’t have to worry about it right now. I want you to go in and wait for me.”

“Okay…” You turn away and stop short to look back at him. “I think I’m gonna run a bath…long day outside.”

“Put in that lavender bath bomb for me, would you?”

You smile and nod and head into your room’s en suite. Tonight was going to be a good night.

Harry slips into the tub, and you sit in front of him. He had checked on Andy before coming in, and the poor kid had all but passed out in his bed. You rest your head on Harry’s shoulder as you both relax.

“This was an excellent idea.” He sighs. “Feel like we don’t take advantage of the tub enough.”

“We don’t usually have time.”

“Well, with school over we will, especially during the day with Andy at school.”

“I’m gonna miss him when we send him off to Paige’s…”

“It’s a month away, babe. Plus, we’ll still see him plenty.”

“I know…”

“You’ll come camping again, yeah? He and Brandon are really looking forward to the annual trip.”

“Oh, definitely! And this time when we wake up all snuggled up it won’t be weird.”

“Can’t believe that was almost a year ago.” He kisses your temple. “Now we’re living together, it’s wild.”

“I’m really glad the school doesn’t care about colleagues dating, or we’d be in a real pickle.”

“Oh, I would have just secretly dated you.”

“Oh, really?” You turn slightly to look at him.

“Yeah, you’re talking to an unapologetic romantic here, a secret romance would be, like, right up my alley.”

“You’re an idiot.” You giggle and kiss his cheek. “Can you believe I only have one more year of doctoral work to do and then I’m done? I can’t wait for my work to be published.”

“I was thinking…the journal that publishes my works is always looking for younger people in the field, if you ever wanted to chat with them.”

“No, that’s your thing, babe, but thank you. Lisa has a few names of some people for me anyways.” You take his hand and kiss his soapy knuckles. “But, I will need your help soon. I need to start working on my defense presentation.”

“Who’s on your committee?”

“Lisa, Sandra, Dan and Alice from English, Patricia from Psychology, and Greg from Philosophy.”

“Good group.”

“Thanks, I thought it was pretty decent. And then obviously whoever else wants to come can. I just want the presentation to feel fun and eye-opening. You’re so good at captivating your audience, I wanna work on that.”

“You know I have horrible stage fright?”

“No way.”

“Way! I get all these nerves right before I need to give a lecture like that, but I accept the fear and use it to help me give a good performance.”

“Do you ever get nervous before teaching a class?”

“I’m always nervous on the first day, but once we get rolling and I can gauge how the kids will be I’m usually fine.”

“Same for me.”

“Well, I’m more than happy to help you, baby, you know that.”

“Thank you.”

His arms were wrapped around you stomach gently. One of his hands starts to drift lower, and between your legs, causing your breath to hitch.

“Alright?” He says into your ear.

“Mhm.” You say as you part your legs a little for him. His other hand come up to grope one of your breasts.

His fingers rub circles into your clit before slipping into your center. You groan and buck your hips forward by accident. His other hand comes up to your mouth.

“Gotta be quiet, baby.” He coos as his fingers pump in and out of you. You nod against him and removes his hand. “That’s my good girl.”

“Harry.” You whine softly. “Wanna ride you.”

“Okay.” You move to turn around but he stops you. “Should be able to just slip it in like this, yeah?”

“Let’s give it a try.”

You lift yourself up enough for him to line himself up with you and you sink down on him. He thrusts up into you and you gasp. He brings his fingers to your mouth for you to suck on and you reach back to do the same thing for him as you continue to fuck each other. His other hand stays rubbing your clit, and you feel yourself getting closer and closer. You start squeezing around him, tighter and tighter. You moan out around his fingers once you’ve gotten your release. Harry as to quickly lift you off him to come on your back.

“Jesus, shit.” He pants. “That was a close one.” He kisses your shoulder before pressing his forehead against it. He reaches for a washcloth to dip into the water to clean your back up. You hum your response as your eyes flutter closed.

“M’sleepy now.”

“Me too, love, come on.”

He helps you stand up and you both towel off and get ready for bed. Harry gives you kisses and smooches before you turn over so he can spoon you.

“Love you so much.” He sighs as his arm wraps around you.

“I love you too.” You adjust against him and sigh as well.

“Straight A’s again!” Andy says as he slaps his report card down on the table when he gets home from his last day of school. “Also not to brag, but Caroline and I won the three-legged race during field day, so I think ice cream is in order.”

“You didn’t partner up with Brandon?” Harry asks.

“Caroline got to me first.” Andy shrugs. “Please, Dad, can we get ice cream?

“Yeah, please, Dad.” You pout with Andy, and Harry sighs with a chuckle.

“Alright, we can get ice cream after dinner tonight.”

Y/N and Andy high five to celebrate.

“Andy, things are okay with you and Brandon, right?” Harry asks him.

“Yeah, they’re fine.”

“Did he ever, um, try to teach you anything again?” You ask, carefully.

“No.” Andy shakes his head. “We never really talked about it. He’s excited for the camping trip though.”

“Well, that’s good.” Harry says. “It’ll be a nice couple of days.”

After dinner you all go downtown to get ice cream at the local shop, and sit outside to enjoy your treats. You smirk to yourself as Andy bites into your sundae.

“You know, I’m pretty sure I joined you for this last year, but I recall you not being able to get topping because you texted me with your dad’s phone.”

“Oh, yeah!” Andy chuckles. “That was pretty good.”

“You’re a little too sly for your own good.” Harry says. “I could have gotten her to come with us on my own.”

“Yeah, but you were taking too long. Sometimes you have to take some initiative, Dad.” Andy smirks as Harry rolls his eyes.

“Eat your ice cream.”

You laugh at that, and gives Harry’s hand a squeeze.

“Either way it was nice to be included. Do you have big summer plans with Mum, Andy?”

“Yes and no. I mean, her wedding is next month, so that’ll take up some time, and then Rachel and I will come stay with you when they’re on their honeymoon. But I think in between all that Noah’s got some boat trips planned. I like fishing with him.”

“That’s right…they’ll be with us for my birthday…” You look at Harry. “I don’t know what my family has planned…”

“I was hoping to take everyone up to the cabin that week so it still felt like a little vacation.”

“Oh, that would be fun!”

“Your family could come up if they wanted.”

“I don’t wanna create more work.”

“You wouldn’t be, I think it would be fun.”

“Yeah! We can go on the jet skis.”

“You mean you can go on the jet skis. I’ll watch from the shore.” You laugh.

“It’s actually pretty fun.” Harry grins.

“I’ll take your word for it.”

Brandon slept over the night before the camping trip so you all could leave bright and early. Harry was taking you up a different 4,000 footer. You must have asked him a dozen times if there would be a bathroom there, and every time Harry said yes, so you believed him.

The boys were really excited. You could hear them up late talking about the view they’d have since Andy had hiked it before. Brandon seemed thrilled to be having some one on one time with Andy. As you started up the trail, you could tell they were having a good time by the sounds of their laughter.

“Doing alright so far?” Harry asks you. “Other than the couple of small hikes we went on last month, this is, like, your first big one of the season.”

“Oh, sure, I’m fine. I’ll probably be sore tomorrow. I’m just happy to be outside, you know?”

“Definitely. I hate seeing you all cooped up.”

“Can’t help it.”

“I like seeing you do your work out on the deck.”

“I love having an outdoor space to do it in, you have no idea.”

It was a very long hike, full of breaks, and look out points. You all weren’t in a rush, which always made things more fun. Once you’re at the summit you all drop your gear with relief. Tons of pictures are taken, and then you head off to find the bathroom while the boys set up the tents. It felt like an anniversary in a way. This when you sort of realized you might like Harry as more than a friend. You’ll never forget waking up with him like you did.

“You guys are speedy.” You say after coming back.

“I’d say we’re professionals at this point.” Andy says and it makes you laugh.

As the sun starts to set, you all get cozy around the fire. Harry had made a nice dinner, and now you were enjoying some s’mores. The boys say goodnight first, and then you and Harry clean up before heading into your own tent.

“Look at us, sleeping in a double wide sleeping bag.” You giggle as you cozy up to him.

“Should have just done this last year too. I think that really would have put out there how I was feeling.” He chuckles and kisses your hairline.

“At least it won’t be awkward when you wake up spooning me.”

“I never thought it was awkward.” He strokes your cheek with his thumb. “Especially not with how you looked up at me.”

“I wanted you to kiss me that morning.”

“I did too.” He pecks your lips.

“I love kissing you.”

“Love kissing you too, baby.”

While you and Harry were whispering sweet nothings to each other, Andy and Brandon were have their own conversation in their tent.

“So, your mom’s wedding is next month, are you excited?” Brandon asks Andy as they get settled into their sleeping bags.

“Yeah, I get to walk her down the aisle, so that’ll be cool.”

“Is your dad going?”

“Officially, yeah.” Andy sighs. “I think Y/N told him it would be good to go for the whole thing, and he agreed. Although, I think he said he plans on sitting all the way in the back.” Andy laughs. “I know it’s gotta be awkward for him.” Andy rolls over onto his side to look at Brandon easier, and Brandon does the same. “When do you, um, go to camp?”

“Last week of July through the first week of August…well, that’s when I usually go, I don’t know if I wanna go this year. I have another week to decide.”

“Why don’t you wanna go?”

“Because of Molly.” Brandon groans. “We broke up again.”

“You did?!”

“Yeah.”

“When?”

“Like…two days ago…”

“Why didn’t you tell me?”

“I figured I’d tell you this weekend, it’s not a big deal, but I don’t really feel like dealing with her for two weeks. I’m keep my fingers crossed that we won’t have the same schedule next year.”

“So, you don’t think you’re immediately going to get back together with her when school starts?” Andy laughs.

“Nope.” Brandon smiles. “I’m over her.”

“Cool…” Andy blushes. “Well, if you don’t end up going to camp, um, my mum said I could invite a few friends to her wedding.”

“Oh, yeah?” Brandon raises an eyebrow at him. “Who else are you going to invite?”

“Probably Caroline and Tyler.”

“Andy…if you still like her so much, why did you break up?”

“I like being friends with her, I don’t know. I don’t think I was ready for all that…dating someone…maybe when I’m older.”

“There were a few rumors going around that you liked someone more than her.” Andy’s eyes widen at Brandon. “Is that true?”

“Yeah.” Andy swallows. “Yeah, there’s someone I like more than her, but I’m still not really ready to date so I’ve been keeping it to myself.”

“Who, um, who is it?”

“I can’t tell you.”

“Why?” Brandon frowns. “You’re my best friend, Andy…I’d tell you if I liked someone.”

“Would you?” Andy sits up and looks the other way. Brandon sits up as well.

“Yeah, why wouldn’t I?”

“Can I ask you something first?”

“Okay.”

“If…if Tyler had been nervous about kissing Alexis…would you have offered to show him how like you did with me?”

Brandon’s face flushes. He was thankful that it was dark in the tent.

“Well, he’s not even with her, so it doesn’t matter does it?”

“Yes it does. Would you have done that with anyone?”

“No.”

“Why not?”

“Because you’re my best friend.” Brandon takes a deep breath. “You have been for as long as I can remember, Andy. I mean…the day you told me that you weren’t going back to your mom’s for the school year was, like, more exciting than any present I’ve ever gotten. Getting to start middle school with you was like a dream come true. Ty’s great and all, but he’s not my best friend.”

“So…that’s all it was then? Because I’m your best friend and you just wanted to help?”

“Yeah.”

Andy nods and lays back down. Brandon does the same. They both lay on their backs.

“You’re gonna tell me who else you like, are you?”

“No.” Andy looks at Brandon slightly. “Not yet anyways.”

“If I don’t go to camp I’ll come to the wedding.” He looks at Andy. “Just don’t dance with Caroline the entire time.” He smirks.

“I won’t.”

Andy rolls over to his other side, facing away from Brandon. He blinks a couple of tears away. How could he tell Brandon he liked him when Brandon was telling him he was just a friend? He didn’t want to do anything to ruin their friendship. He also knew he just wasn’t ready for kissing or things like that, so he wasn’t going to say anything until he knew he was really ready.

The next morning you wake up in Harry’s arms, like always, and give his cheek a kiss before sitting up to stretch.

“Sleep alright, baby?” He yawns.

“Mhm, did you?”

“Yup.” He smiles and you smile back at him. This weekend felt like an anniversary to him too. Your actual one was coming up soon.

You both get up and use the bathroom, and see that the boys are already up and ready to go. They seemed to be tired.

“You both sleep alright?” You ask as you start your journey back down the mountain.

“Mhm.” Brandon yawns. “Just tired, it’s early.”

“I’m so glad school’s over so we can just sleep in.” Andy says.

“I know the feeling.” You say. “Although, your dad makes it impossible sometimes.”

“Well excuse me for trying to stick to a routine.” Harry scoffs. “I do my best to stay quiet.”

“Mm, sure, Jan.” You say and it makes him laugh.

“Is that something Auntie Janette would say?” Andy asks.

“No, it’s from The Brady Bunch.” Harry says. “You know that old show, we’ve watched it a couple of times. Jan can’t stand her older sister Marsha, and Marsha always catches Jan in a lie. It’s pretty funny.”

“It’s, like, a catchphrase, right, Mr. Styles?” Brandon asks.

“Exactly.”

It’s a smooth trek down the mountain. You all take your time just as you did going up, and eventually you get back to the car. Harry drops Brandon off at his house, and Andy walks him up to his door.

“Well, thanks for another great trip.” Brandon say.

“Sure, I’m glad you came.”

“When do you go to your mom’s?”

“In a few days…”

“Okay, maybe we can hang out before you go?”

“Definitely.” The boys hug and then Brandon goes inside. Andy sighs heavily when he gets in the car. You and Harry look at each other before he drives off towards the house.

“Andy, when you come back later this summer the kitchen’s gonna have an all new look, are you excited?” You say, trying to break the tension.

“Yeah! You better send me pictures along the way.”

“We will.” Harry says. “We’ll need your expert input I’m sure.”

Doing demo in the kitchen was a liberating experience. Knocking out the old cabinets with Harry was more fun than you thought it would be. Then again, how could it not be a good time watch him use a sledgehammer?

“I say we’ve earned ourselves a couple of drinks.” He says as he gets a couple of beers out of the fridge. “I know beer’s not your favorite, but-“

“It’s fine.” You take it. “Let’s go sit outside, it’s all dusty in here.”

He agrees, and you both head out to the deck.

“I’m glad we rented that dumpster, clean up shouldn’t be too difficult.” Harry says as he cracks his beer open. “Especially with how much we already did.”

“I know! We got so much done today. I can’t wait to see what the new stain on the floor will look like.”

“I was talking to the floor guy about that, he said since he’s refinishing it as well we won’t be able to walk on it properly for a few days. I was thinking we could go up to the cabin while it’s getting done. We both can still work without a ton of fumes.”

“Good idea. I certainly wouldn’t mind the view of the lake for a few days.”

“Cabinets should be installed by the wedding.” He says as he takes a sip.

“You’re sure you’re okay to go? I don’t want to force you…”

“No, I know I need to be there. I wanna see Andy walk her down the aisle and all that. Besides, my suit is gorgeous, I can’t let it go to waste.” He scoffs and it makes you laugh.

“Just making sure.” You reach for his hand and give it a squeeze. “Ugh, I need a long, hot shower. I feel gross.”

“Same here. Feel like sharing?”

“No, I’m on my period.” You pout. “Just need a little alone time.”

“Fine.” He sighs. “Go do your thing.”

“Thanks, babe.” You get up and kiss the top of his head before going inside.

Harry knew you were going to take a shower by yourself, but he wanted to play it cool. He had ordered pizza and made sure to get your favorite wine, but had to hide it from you. He cleans himself off quickly in the other bathroom, and gets everything set up outside. He lights a few candles. Satisfied with his work, he waits for you.

“I’m all done, thanks for…” You walk outside in an oversized shirt and pajama pants. “What is all this?”

“Our anniversary dinner.” He smiles and wraps his arms around you. “It was a year ago today that you came here with this exact meal and we kissed for the for the first time.”

“Oh my goodness, Harry.” You kiss him and wrap your arms around his neck. “This is so sweet, I…I thought we were celebrating in a couple of days though, I-“

“That’s what I told you so I could surprise you. Normally I’d cook, but the kitchen isn’t functioning at the moment.”

“I love you so much.”

“I love you too.”

You both kiss again, and you decide to sit on his lap as you ate and drank. You just really wanted to be as close as possible right now. He didn’t mind one bit, he liked when you’d cling to him a little more.

“The candles were a nice touch, very romantic, Har.” You sit back against his chest and he wraps his arms around your stomach.

“I’m glad you like it.”

“I love it! I’m not super into overdone surprises, so this is literally perfect.”

“You really do like keeping things simple, huh?”

“Mhm, I mean, the gesture is always appreciated, I just don’t like people making such a big fuss over me, you know?” Harry hums his response and moves some of your hair so he can kiss on the back of your neck.

“But you’re worth making a fuss over.” He mumbles as his lips move up your neck. “How heavy is your flow, baby?”

“Should be minimal since I just showered.” You bite your bottom lip. “Do you really feel like it?”

“Yeah, we can just put a towel down like we’ve done before.”

“Okay.” You smile as he nibbles on your earlobe.

“Yeah?”

“Yeah.” You giggle and get off him. You bring the pizza and leftover wine inside before going into the bedroom.

Harry puts a couple of towels down while you go into the bathroom. You come out and quickly walk over to the bed to lay down. Harry rolls a condom on, and puts some extra lube on it so he doesn’t hurt you.

“All set?” He says to you as he knees onto the bed.

“Mhm.” You smile.

His lips slot over yours and his hands knead your breasts. He pushes inside you and you gasp into his mouth.

“Lube was a little cold.” You giggle.

“Sorry, baby, is it better now?” He asks as he rocks in and out of you.

“Yes.”

He squishes his nose to yours, and you wrap your legs around his waist. He comes closer so you’re chest to chest. You lick into his mouth and he groans against you. You feel tears start to form in your eyes and you start laughing.

“You haven’t even come yet, why are you crying?” He laughs as he uses his thumbs to wipe the small droplets away.

“I’m just really happy we’re together.”

“Me too, darling.” He kisses your forehead.

“I’m also hormonal.”

“Mhm, sure, blame it on that if you want.” He smirks and continues thrusting in and out of you.

“Fuck, that feels good.” Your nails rake down his back and he groans into your ear. Your nails dig into his ass as he fucks you harder. “Just like that, Harry, don’t stop.” You moan.

He bites down on your neck, and you whimper. It always felt so fucking good when he would do that, and with you not having to work and Andy being at Paige’s, Harry was free to litter you with marks. Well, within reason. He’d save the really nasty bruises for your inner thighs.

You cry out as you come undone, and Harry fills up the condom not too long after. You both get cleaned up and you grab the bottle of wine as you get settled for a movie in bed. You each take turns swigging from it. You were sitting in front of Harry, all cozy.

“I’ll need to work on my paper tomorrow.” You tell him. “Taking a couple of days off for demo was good to clear my head, but I need to get back at it.”

“That’s fine, I have some work I need to do for my manuscript. Are you planning to go to the CMT conference again this summer?”

“Can’t.” You take another swig from the bottle and look up at him. “It’s in California this year, and it’s right before the fall semester.”

“So?”

“So…that’s time I would need to prep for my classes. I’d be gone for about a week with the traveling.”

“Do you want to go?”

“Well…yeah, there’s going to be some really good speakers this year.”

“Then you should go.” He smiles. “I’d go too, but I need to be around for Andy once August hits.”

“You’d really be okay with me being gone an entire week across the country?”

“Baby, no one loves a lecture more than you, I don’t want you to not go because of me.” He kisses your hairline.

“I’d literally be getting back the day of our first faculty meeting. I looked into it already. I’d have to go from the airport to the school.”

“You’re always hours early for the faculty meeting…”

“Yeah, because I like getting my office in order.” You scoff. “Is there a reason you want me to go?”

“No.” He shrugs. “I just think it’s rare when we don’t have to cancel class to go to a conference, and the school will pay for you to go.”

“Really?”

“Yeah, you can apply for a scholarship, I can show you. Then it would just be the air fare which isn’t that expensive out there this time of year.”

“I suppose that’s true…if I can get the school to pay for it then I’ll definitely go.”

“Good.” He smiles.

A few days away at the cabin were just what the doctor ordered. It felt weird not having Andy around, but you honestly weren’t upset at having a break from parenting. You texted with him here and there, just to check in and let him know you were thinking of him, as did Harry. You really cherished the time you and Harry could just be you and Harry. He got you to go on a jet ski with him, and even though you screamed the entire time, it was still fun. It was the perfect getaway home, and when you got back to your actual home your new kitchen floors looked stunning. The cabinet people came in a couple of days later, and you made sure to send Andy all of the pictures. July was flying by.

“Okay, so, for your birthday, we’ll go to the cabin and bring the kids, and your parents and brothers will meet us up there for a couple of nights as well?” Harry says as he looks over his planner.

“Yes.” You chuckle.

“What?”

“You just look so serious. I feel like I’m having an appointment with you at your office.” You clear your throat. “You wanted to see me, Dr. Styles.” You pout at him and he swallows hard.

“That’s not funny.” He puts his pen down and takes his glasses off to look at you. “I could get in a big heap of trouble if a student came onto me like that.”

“Did it ever used to work on you when you were younger?”

“No.” He scoffs. “Although the girls, and some boys, would try, I have to give them credit. I’d get offers from them to babysit Andy just because they wanted to know how I lived and all that. It was more difficult when I was closer in age, now I don’t even give it a second glance. They know not to flirt with me anyways because my girlfriend would probably step in and pummel ‘em.” He grins at you.

“Got that right.” You smirk. “Although, you’re the jealous one, not me.”

“I would strangle any kid at that school if I saw them trying to make a move on you, no doubt about that.” You burst out laughing and put your hand over his to give it a squeeze.

“Okay, okay…are you ready for tomorrow?”

“Am I ready to see my son all dressed up? Yes. I hope he’s been behaving at the rehearsal dinner.” Harry looks at his watch. “Should be over soon.” He chews on his inner cheek. “Y/N…someday…when we, you know, get married…” A smile grows on your face. “I don’t think I’d want to invite them.”

“Wow, really? I’m…shocked…”

“At a petty level, I truthfully just don’t think she deserves to see me so happy, and I feel like she’s rubbing how happy she is in my face. She’s always been like, just, painfully oblivious.” He rests his chin on her palm. “I know it would hurt her, but I wouldn’t want her there.”

“Okay.” You get up and sit in his lap.

“Okay?”

“Yeah, I don’t need your ex at our wedding.” You laugh. “Maybe it’s different for her since she’s the one that called it quits. I know you’re over her, but I can understand how all this might still hurt.”

“It brings up a lot of things, yeah.” He looks up at you and smiles. “But I’m really happy with how everything worked out. I’m happy I’m with you.” He gives your shoulder a squeeze. “You-you’ve become like a second mum to Andy and…I feel like for so long I was just living my life on auto, just doing the same thing every day, but now…I have more of a purpose again.”

“Harry.” You coo and stroke his cheek. “You’ve changed my life for the better too.”

You were able to get your hair in a cute low bun, with some curls left out. You bought a light blue semi-formal dress to wear to pair with Harry’s suit. He was just getting his contacts in as you were slipping on your heels.

“Be honest, how do I look?” He says to you.

“Like I don’t wanna let you leave this house.” You bite your bottom lip.

“Excellent, just what I was going for.” He rubs his hands up and down your arms. “You look stunning, baby.”

“Thank you.”

“Ready to go meet her entire family and Noah’s?”

“Is everyone really going to fit in her backyard?”

“The ceremony is in the back yard, the reception is in a tent on the beach.”

“Oh…fancy.”

“Nothing but the best for her.” Harry rolls his eyes. “Got the gift?”

“In the car already.”

Harry nods and you both head out.

Andy looked handsome. His hair was perfect, and he essentially never looked more like his father. It was the tan he had from being out so much. He wouldn’t be able to see his friends before the ceremony since he needed to stay in close proximity with Paige. They were able to take all of the bridal party photos beforehand. Same with the groom’s party.

There were a ton of chairs set up, and people were finding their seats. You and Harry sit in the last row of seats on the bride’s side. He puts a pair of sunglasses on. The last thing he wanted to do was be recognized and exchange pleasantries with Paige’s extended family.

“I have some tissue in my purse if you need some.” You say to him. “I don’t know about you, but I always cry at weddings.”

“So do I, thanks.” He holds his hand out for the tissues and you give him a couple. He puts his arm around you and kisses your temple.

“Think there will be an open bar?”

“Oh, for sure.” He scoffs. “We’ll be drinking well tonight.”

“Hi, Mr. Styles.” Brandon and Tyler come up to you and Harry. “Can we sit with you? We don’t really know anyone else.”

“Sure!” Harry says.

“Yeah, plenty of room.” You say. “Where’s Caroline?”

“Why should I know?” Brandon says as he sits down next to you.

“Because you’re all friends, duh.” You say to him.

“She’s in the bathroom.” Tyler says. “She’ll be here in a second.”

Caroline eventually joins everyone, but she’s a little fidgety.

“What took you so long?” Brandon asks her.

“There was, um, a line.” She says.

More and more take their seats, and music starts up. Everyone looks forward as Rachel walks up with Noah and the rest of the groomsmen. She looked lovely. Noah gives her a hug and kiss before she gets in line with the rest of the party. A couple of Paige’s younger cousins act as the flower girls. Allie and Ned walk Lydia down the aisle, and then come the bridesmaids. Harry knew them all well. Friends from college, and friends from work. Some of their eyes widen when they notice Harry, but they keep walking. Everyone stands up when Paige’s bridal music starts. You get your phone ready to snap a few shots of Andy.

“Oh my god, look at him.” Harry whispers proudly. He lifts his sunglasses to see him better. Andy waves to his father.

Paige and Harry briefly make eye contact. They nod at each other as Andy continues to walk her down the aisle.

“He’s a spitting image.” You whisper to Harry, and he smiles at you.

The ceremony is quick, there’s some Hebrew from a rabbi, and Noah steps on the glass. Everyone’s told where to go for cocktail hour, and they start making their way.

“Dad!” Andy shouts to get his attention. “Mum wants a family picture.”

“What?!”

“Yeah, like, with all of us, come on.” He tugs on Harry’s jacket sleeve, and Harry looks back at you panicked. You follow them to the spot where the photos are being taken.

“Hey you two!” Paige beams. “Of course your suit is amazing, shouldn’t have doubted it for a second.” She says to Harry. “And you look lovely, Y/N.”

“Um, thank you. Congratulations.” You say to her.

“Thank you.” She giggles. “I’m a missus! Can’t believe it. Anyways, I thought it would be nice if we took a blended family photo.” Harry just nods and follows her. “Okay, so I was thinking I could stand in the middle, Rachel on one side, and Andy on the other, like, in front, and then Noah on one side and you on the other, and Y/N next to you.”

“Wait, you want me in the photo?” You ask.

“Of course! You’re family now, have been for a while.”

Harry snakes his arm around your waist and pulls you close to him, and uses his other hand to put on Andy’s shoulder. They take a few photos like that as everyone else stands to the side watching.

“Okay, well, we’re going to the cocktail hour, thanks for including us in your very special day.” Harry says with just an ounce of sarcasm and an ironic grin, and tugs you along.

“Alright, I can see what you mean now, painfully oblivious.”

“Jesus, thank you! Was that awkward or was that awkward?”

“Nope, very awkward. Come on, let’s go drink.”

The tent on the beach was exquisite. There was an open bar, a DJ, and waiters walking around with appetizers. You and harry go right up to the bar for cocktails before finding what table you’ve been put at.

“Harry!” A woman squeals and lunges onto him, making him almost spill his drink. “God, it’s been years!”

“Sarah!” Harry hugs her back. “I know, how are you?”

“I’m doing well.” She steps back from him. “You haven’t aged a day.”

“My hair would beg to differ.” He runs a hand through it.

“Oh, please, you look distinguished.” She smiles and looks at you. “And who’s this?”

“Oh! Sorry, um, Sarah this is my girlfriend, Y/N. Y/N, Sarah and I went to uni together with Paige.”

“Hi, it’s nice to meet you.” You shake her hand.

“Same to you. My hubby, Joe, is just getting us some drinks. Seems like we’ve been put at the same table. I wonder if we all were.”

“All?” Harry asks.

“Sure! Jane and her wife are her, and so is Greg, he came stag…” She leans into Harry. “Divorced recently.” She whispers. “Oh! And Lauren’s here too. Basically the reject list for the wedding party.” She laughs.

Harry didn’t think Paige was still this close with all of their old college buddies. It would be like a mini-reunion, and he wasn’t sure how he felt about it. He almost wished he was put at the kids table with Andy and his friends.

“I’m shocked to see you here, I mean I’m happy to see you and all, but-“

“Well, as you saw, our son walked her down the aisle and she really didn’t want me to miss it, so here I am.”

Slowly everyone else makes their way over to the table. Harry introduces you to everyone. The last one to make their way is Lauren.

“Harry Styles.” She smiles and he turns to look at her.

“Hey.” He smiles back and hugs her. “Um, this is my girlfriend, Y/N.” He hooks his arm around your waist and pulls you close to his side as you shake your hand.

“You’re a very lucky woman, Y/N. Harry’s the best.” She says.

“Yeah, he is.” You say.

You all take your seats as the wedding party makes their way into the tent. Harry keeps his hand on your thigh the entire time. Harry could see on Paige’s face that she was desperately trying to keep it together. She missed her father. Everyone stands up and crowds around the dancefloor as Noah takes Rachel’s hand for a father-daughter dance.

“She is too cute.” You say to Harry.

“I know it, absolutely precious.” He agrees and takes a sip of his drink.

Next up is a mother-son dance for Andy and Paige. You watch as the smile grows on Harry’s face. He was proud of Andy for being such a good sport, and he could see that Andy was having fun. You take your phone out to take a video of the dance so Andy could see it later. Noah has a dance with his mother, and then Paige has a dance with Lydia.

“I’m shocked.” Harry says to you. “Lydia’s so traditional.”

“I’m glad to see her doing something nice for Paige.”

Once all of that is out of the way, everyone takes their seats again for the first course. Just a Caesar salad and some bread. You listen as Harry and his friends reminisce. You wonder, briefly, what his deal with Lauren is. She seemed to be the most sentimental. She was sitting next to you and you could feel her eyes burning into you.

“So, how long have you and Harry been together for?” She asks you.

“A year.” You smile. “But we were friends a year prior to us getting together.”

“Oh, do you work with him at the university?”

“Yes, we met because I ended up being his office neighbor. I guess that’s why we became such good friends too.”

“You know what solidified us being friends?” He leans over you, joining the conversation. “That first game night you came to. We were playing charades remember?”

“How could I forget?” You smile and kiss his cheek. He goes back to the other conversation he was having with his friend Greg. “How did you and Harry meet?” You ask Lauren.

“At a party.” She shrugs. “I was a year ahead of him, same with Paige. I think Greggy brought him out, they were roommates their sophomore year. He fit right in with our group. He immediately had a crush on Paige, everyone could see it.” She laughs and your mouth forms into a straight line. “Don’t worry, all of that was a long time ago.”

“Yeah.” You finish your drink and tap Harry’s shoulder. “I’m going to get another one.”

“Do you want me to get it?”

“No, I need to stretch my legs.” You stand up and walk towards the bar. Harry looks at Lauren.

“What?” She asks him.

“Did you say something to her?”

“About what?” He gives her an obvious look. “No, why would I mention that?”

“Because you’re you.” He smirks.

“All I said was that it was obvious that you had a crush on Paige from the first time Greg brought you out, nothing about you and I.”

“Maybe don’t mention how much I used to like my ex?”

“She asked me how you and I met, it was just part of the story. Lighten up, H.”

“Here, I got you another one too.” You say as you sit back down.

“Thanks, babe.”

The main course is served, and toasts start being made. Allie gives a small toast, but tears up. Noah’s best man lightens the mood with some funny jokes. Andy and Rachel even give a toast, a poem they worked on together. Harry had to dab his eyes with your tissues to wipe a few tears away.

“I’m just so proud of him. He looks so grown up.” He pouts at you.

“I know.” You smile. “It’s okay.”

Noah and Paige thank everyone for coming, and then most people make their way to the dancefloor. Andy comes racing overo to your table and throws his arms around Harry.

“How was it?” He asks.

“You did amazing, buddy.”

“Y/N, will you come dance?”

“Sure, let me just kick these heels off.” You giggle and get up. Andy takes your hand and leads you to the dancefloor.

Harry watches as you twirl Andy around and just be silly with him. It warmed his heart.

“I’m gonna go join them.” He takes his suit jacket off. “Hope you all will dance too.”

“Need about three more drinks.” Sarah says. “But feel free to warm it up for us out there.”

Harry laughs and heads over to you. His dance moves make Andy laugh hysterically. The wedding photographer comes over and takes a picture of the three of you. After a few songs, Andy says he’s gonna go dance with his friends, and enjoy some cake.

“Are you having a good time?” Harry asks as you both make your way to the bar again.

“Mhm, are you?”

“It’s not too bad. I’m really glad you’re here.” He gives your hand a squeeze. “This’ll probably be my last one, I don’t wanna get so fucked up that I can’t drive us home.”

“I can cool it if you wanna keep drinking.”

“No, it’s okay. I also don’t want Andy seeing me sloshed, you know?”

“Oh, true. Let’s nurse these ones then, yeah?”

“Harry!” Paige comes over to you both. “Would you come take another picture with all our college friends?”

“Um, sure.” Harry hands you his drink and you follow to where the photo is being taken. He stands as far away from Paige as he can, and flashes that toothy smile of his.

“Not that I don’t love Noah, but seeing Harry tonight…makes me sad that Paige couldn’t work it out with him.” You overhear a woman say to another. You try not to make it obvious that you’re listening.

“I know! How could you not make it work with a man like that? Must be his personality, good dick can only make you happy for so long.”

Your mouth falls open in shock. You turn to the women and grimace. Before you have a chance to say anything Harry’s coming back over to you, snatching his drink and tugging you back to the dancefloor. You shake what you heard from your head as you look at him. Harry had a wonderful personality, and if those bitched were too dumb to see that, then fuck them. It was fun to dance with Harry like this, just goofy and without a care.

Andy was having a good time dancing as a group with his friends. A slow song comes on to give everyone a break from the fast paced music. He looks over and sees you and Harry coming together for a dance and he smiles.

“Now this is my favorite kind of dancing.” Harry says into your ear.

“Really? So when we went to that club up north and I backed my thang up against you...?” You raise an eyebrow at him.

“Okay, this is my second favorite kind of dancing.” You both giggle. “That was a great night, I have to say.”

“Mhm.” You smile and kiss him quickly before resting your head on his shoulder as he leads you.

“Andy, wanna dance?” Caroline asks him shyly.

“Yeah.” He smiles and puts his hands on her waist.

“You look really handsome.”

“Thanks.” He blushes. “I like your dress. You know you always look pretty.”

She smiles at him.

“I’m glad we’re still good friends.” She says as they sway back and forth.

“Me too.”

“During the next slow song you should ask Brandon to dance.”

“What?”

“It’s like you’re always saying, rip the band aid.” She grins at him.

“Caroline, I…”

“Look, I’m not trying to assume anything, but if I had to guess who it was you liked I’d say it’s him, and I think he likes you too, but you both are just being stupid by not going for it.”

“You really think he likes me back?” It was the first time he had admitted his feels to a friend.

“I think so, I think he’s just nervous.” She shrugs.

“This whole thing has been really confusing. You were the first girl I ever really liked, and I like him too, so…”

“My oldest sister deals with the same thing.”

“She does?!”

“Yeah! She came out to us earlier this year, she said she’s bi.”

“And your parents were cool with it?”

“Sure, they were just happy she felt comfortable enough to say how she was feeling.”

“Wow.”

“See? It’s way more common than you think.” The song ends and they let go of each other. “And, just for the record, you were the first boy I ever really liked too, and I’m happy I get to say Andy Styles was my first boyfriend.” She kisses his cheek and he smiles. “I have to use the ladies room, I’ll be back.”

“What was that about?” Brandon asks Andy as he and Tyler step closer.

“Nothing.” He shrugs.

“Are you back together?”

“No, she just kissed my cheek, uh, thanking me for the dance. It’s no big deal, B.”

Brandon nods and they all start dancing again. You and Harry sit for a bit to rest your feet, and to munch on some bread. You notice that Lauren and Greg have been pretty chatty.

“Think anything’s going to happen between those two?” You nod over to them.

“Wouldn’t put it past her.” Harry scoffs. “I bet she was hoping I wouldn’t be here with someone.” Alright, so he was a little drunk, and that statement just slipped.

“Why’s that?”

“Hm? Oh, I don’t know.” He shakes his head and you narrow your eyes at him. “What?”

“Harry if you used to hook up with her you can just say so, it was, like, fifteen years ago…”

“You make me sound so old.” He pouts. “Alright, yeah, we used to hook up, but it wasn’t serious, and we kept it quiet, not wanting to disrupt our circle of friends. She’s just one of those people that you think is really sweet and wholesome, and then she’s not. I didn’t like it.” He stands back up and puts his hand out to you. “Come on, let’s go dance some more.”

“Okay.” You take his hand and go back out to the dancefloor. Another slow starts and you happily wrap your arms around Harry’s neck. “I take back what I said earlier, this really is the best kind of dancing.”

He smiles at you and then leans in for a kiss. Your lips press together and then you both sigh as you dance. Andy takes a deep breath and goes over to Brandon who was sitting down, drinking some water. Tyler and Caroline had been picked up to go home already. Brandon’s parents wouldn’t be there to pick him up until a little later.

“Hey.” Andy says to him.

“Hey, my parents are on their way.”

“Oh…so you don’t wanna dance?” He rubs the back of his neck.

“To this song?” Brandon stands up and puts his hands in his pockets. “A little slow, don’t you think?”

“I’m okay with the tempo.”

“There’s a lot of people around…”

“We could go outside, I’m gonna walk you out anyways.”

“Okay.”

Andy and Brandon go outside the tent. There were a few people out there having smoke breaks and just a breather from dancing. They go to the side where things are a little more secluded.

“How…how should we do this?” Andy asks.

“We could just hug and sway back and forth.”

“Yeah, that makes sense.” The boys hug and start swaying back and forth. Andy’s heart was racing like never before. “I’m really glad you didn’t go to camp this summer.” Andy says and they stop to look at each other.

“You are?”

“Yeah.” He smiles at his friend.

Brandon daintily cups one of Andy’s cheeks, and Andy closes his eyes. Just as Brandon leans in his phone goes off. He sighs and presses his forehead to Andy’s for a moment before getting his phone out of his pocket and letting Andy go.

“Hello?” He says obviously annoyed. “Yeah, I’m ready, are you here? Okay…I’m down at the tent, I’ll wait outside for you.” He hangs up. “My dad’s, uh, gonna come get me out here, so…”

“Right.” Andy nods. “How long do you think he’ll be?”

“He said five minutes.”

“Alright, well, I’ll wait out here with you.”

“Thanks.” The boys walk close to the entrance of the tent to wait for Brandon’s dad.

“Brandon?”

“Yeah?”

“Were you going to kiss me?”

“Yeah, I was.” Andy’s face flushes as he looks at his friend. “Got sort of interrupted.” He runs a hand through his hair. “Maybe another time, though?”

Andy smiles at him and nods yes. Mr. Stewart comes to the tent and the boys say goodbye. Andy goes back inside and heads to the dancefloor with you and Harry.

“There you are!” You exclaim. “They’re gonna do the cha cha slide.”

“Great!” The song starts and Harry watches a ton of you follow along with the steps of the song. “Come on, Dad!”

“Fine!” Harry jumps in and follows along as well.

It ended up being a great night despite some of the awkwardness. You get your shoes on, but they sting. You contemplate just walking out barefoot, but you could easily step on broken glass outside, so you decide against it.

“All set?” Harry says to you. “Just confirmed with Paige. The kids will get dropped off in a couple of days, and then we’re headed to the cabin.”

“Perfect. It’s gonna be a great week away.”

You both say goodnight to Andy, who was about ready to pass out from all the dancing he did. Him and Rachel head up to the house.

“So, how were things with Brandon?” She asks him.

“Good…we danced together outside the tent.”

“Oh, how was that?!” She squeals.

“Shh, do you want the neighbors to hear? It was fine.” He smiles. “Just fine.”

Harry gets the two of you home, and you give him a devious grin as you get inside. He raises his eyebrows at you as if to ask if you’re not too tired, but you wink and start walking towards the bedroom.

“Feeling a little frisky, eh?” He asks as he takes his suit jacket off.

“Mhm, you looked so sexy tonight, and watching you dance really did it for me.”

“Oh, yeah?” He pulls you close to him.

“Yeah.”

You press your lips to his, and swipe your tongue along his bottom lip. He opens up for you and your tongue molds to his. He reaches behind you to unzip your dress, and it falls to the floor, pooling at your feet. Your hands work to unbutton his dress-shirt, and you push it off his shoulders. Next you get his pants undone and he leads you over to the bed. He shimmies out of his trousers and gets on the bed with you. You get between his legs and tug his boxers down. You kiss his tip and he hisses from the sensation. You lick up and down his shaft before wrapping your lips around him. You bob up and down slowly and look up at him.

“That’s so good, baby.” You raise your eyebrows at him while your tongue runs over his slit. “You’re a good girl, Y/N.”

Your eyes flutter closed, and you continue to suck on him how he likes, drool dripping down your chin. You don’t suck on him for too much longer since you want him to fuck you. You crawl up his body and grind your covered center over him. He unhooks your bra and kisses on your chest. He rolls ones of your nipples between his teeth and your head falls back.

“I need to get these off.” You grunt and get your panties off. You grab his length and line it up with yourself. “Okay?”

“Yeah, I’ll just pull out.”

You nod and sink down him. Your mouth falls open as he stretches every inch of you. You grip his shoulders and move yourself up and down.

“You got this wet just from sucking on me?” He grunts as he grips your hips to help move you back and forth.

“Can’t help it when I’m doing that and you call me a good girl, Harry.” You peck his lips. “It’s so hot.” You move to suck on his neck, and he presses you as close to him as possible.

You move in sync with each other, and you grind against him in the perfect way. You start breathing heavier as you feel yourself getting closer. You breathlessly tell him to keep going. You tighten around him as you come undone around his hard dick.

“Shit, fuck, Y/N!”

“Oof!”

He had to toss you off of him so he wouldn’t come inside you, leaving quite the mess on his lower stomach and thighs.

“Sorry, are you alright?”

“Yeah.” You giggle and prop yourself up on your elbows. “Are you? Normally you can hold it a little longer.”

“Not when you tighten up like that, Jesus…” He sighs and looks down at himself.

“I’ll go get a rag.” You get off the bed and go into the bathroom to grab a washcloth and run it under some warm water.

You come back and clean him up. He smiles up at you and you lean down to kiss him.

“We need to be more careful.” He says as you get into bed with him. “Just suck it up and use the condom, you know?”

“I know.” You sigh. “It just feels so good.” You pout at him.

“I know, darling, but you said you didn’t want to get pregnant until you have your doctorate. I’d feel terrible if it happened, and you got really stressed out…”

“Harry, if it happens it happens. It would be stressful, but plenty of women do it all the time. Now’s not the most ideal time, but I can’t tell you how excited I get when I think of carrying your baby sometimes.” You bite your bottom lip as you look at him.

“Don’t even fucking tempt me, Y/N, you know I’d put one in you now if you really wanted it.”

“I know, I’m sorry.” You kiss him quickly before turning over. “Soon, I promise.”

A week with Andy and Rachel at the cabin was interesting to say the least. Watching their dynamic was fascinating. They really did act like brother and sister. They’d bicker one minute and be laughing the next. He showed her how to use the jet skis, and they built sand castles together. Your family came up, and it made it ten times more fun for your birthday. Your parents even stay in to watch the kids so you, Harry, Phil, and Julian can all go out to a bar to celebrate. You couldn’t believe you were already twenty-eight. It was hard to feel old, though, when you could still have such a great time dancing and drinking. The day of your actual birthday you all enjoy some cake, and a few gifts.

Andy was back home with you and Harry now that it was just about the middle of August. It was nice having him home, it was too quiet without him, even if you did enjoy the alone time with Harry. Andy loved all of the changes that were made to the house. He had kept what happened with Brandon, or what almost happened with Brandon, to himself. He just wanted to keep that moment for himself. The Ariana Grande concert wouldn’t be until November, but Andy was already talking to you about outfit choices for the meet and greet.

“I just got back, and you’re leaving for a week?” Andy asks you at dinner when you tell him about your trip to California.

“Yeah, I have a conference to go to, I’ll be back before you know it.” You smile. “You’re gonna have some nice quality time with Dad.”

“Yeah, we’re gonna have a lot of fun.”

“Mhm, I can’t wait to go back to school shopping with you and Mum.” Andy rolls his eyes.

“That’s a day that should be way more fun that it is, and we’re not doing that until after Y/N gets back. We’ll have another pot painting day.” Harry takes a bite of his dinner. “I was thinking we could go to the pottery paint place, though. Have a little father-son date.”

“Ew, don’t call it a date, Dad.”

You burst out laughing. You’d miss your boys over the next week.

“Dad, can we do the pottery thing another time, Brandon invited me to go to the skate park tomorrow.” Andy says to Harry the night before they’re supposed to go to the pottery place.

“Oh, well, you can go skateboarding with him any time, can’t you? Or even afterwards?”

“Why can’t we just go paint another day?”

“I was sort of looking forward to spending the time with you.” Harry frowns. “We haven’t done much just the two of us in a while.”

“That’s because you spend all your free time with Y/N.” Andy smirks and sits down on the couch with Harry.

“Not true, we do stuff as the three of us. I feel like you like spending time with her more than me.”

“That’s not true! I guess I can go skateboarding with B another day.”

“I don’t wanna go tomorrow if it’s gonna be a force for you.”

“It won’t be. It’ll be fun.” He looks at Harry. “She’s only been gone two days, you know?”

“I’m aware.”

“So, she’ll be back in another three. It’ll go by quick.”

“I just feel bad that she has to go right from the airport to our faculty meeting.” He sighs. “But I suppose it’s all going to work out perfectly.”

“Yeah, she’s gonna be really surprised.”

Spending a week in California was amazing. You felt like your old independent self. It was nice to explore in the evenings, and you got a lot out of the sessions you attended. You had a ton of new ideas for your classes and for your paper. You spoke to Harry when you could. The three hour time difference was much more manageable than the six hour one like when he was in London.

You were happy with the tan you managed to get out there, and did your best to sleep on the plane home so you weren’t totally exhausted. You take the bus back to town, and load your things up in your car and drive over to the university. You managed to freshen up at the airport, and you texted Harry updates so he knew when to expect you. What you refrained from telling him was that you were going to stop by your office quickly just to open it up and let it get some fresh air from the window. You also needed to grab your spare laptop charger.

There was something you liked about the quiet before the semester started. It was like the calm before an incredible storm. You were feeling extremely prepared for this semester. It would be your third year teaching at the university, and you were feeling really good about it. You key into your office and set something down.

“Well, if it isn’t my not so new neighbor.”

“Jesus!” You nearly jump out of your shoes. Even though you knew Harry’s voice well, he still found ways to scare the shit out of you. You sigh and turn around. “And to think I was…excited…to…see…you…” Your eyes widen when you see him down on one knee with a small velvet box in one hand, and a shit eating grin on his face. “How…how did you know I’d come here first?” Your eyes start to water.

“Because I know you very well, come here.” You step towards him and take his free hand in yours. You were shaking. “Are you gonna be okay?” You nod your head yes. “Good, because we don’t have a ton of time before our meeting.” You chuckle slightly at that. “Still excited to see me?”

“Yes.” You whisper.

“Do you know what’s in this little box?”

“I have an idea.”

“I truthfully never thought I’d be buying another one of these for someone. I…I didn’t think I deserved to have someone love me the way that you do, but I know now that I do. Sometimes I’d wonder why things didn’t work out the way I thought were supposed to, but I realized that everything I went through was just part of my journey to you, Y/N.” You cough out a nervous giggle as you had tears running down your cheeks. “I was trying to think of the perfect moment or place for this, and nothing felt better than the place we first met and became friends. Plus, I knew you’d nearly shit yourself.” He smirks and you shake your head. “So, with all that being said, and may I remind you I don’t care about how long we’re engaged for because I know your doctorate comes first…will you marry me?” He opens the small box and you gasp at the ring. It was stunning, beyond stunning.

“Yes, oh my god, yes!” Your hand was shaking terribly, but he manages to slip the ring on.

He stands up and swings you around in his arms. He slots his mouth over yours, and you almost forget where you are until you hear a bottle pop.

“Woo! Congratulations!” Janette says with a freshly opened bottle of champagne. Lisa, Mateo, Lucas, Andre, and Sandra all come out as well. “You should have seen your face, Y/N.” She chuckles.

“You guys!” You laugh and go to hug your colleagues. “You all knew?”

“All Harry said was that we should wait upstairs and to bring champagne, we just assumed.” Lisa says as she holds out some cups for Janette to pour the champagne in.

“Where’s Andy?” You ask him as you take a sip.

“At Brandon’s.”

“Did he know?”

“What are you, new? Who do you think helped me design the ring?” He smirks and nudge his shoulder. “We’ll celebrate with him tonight when we get back from dinner, there’s an ice cream cake in the freezer just waiting to be eaten.”

You all chat about the excitement before you need to actually go through the things you needed to in your faculty meeting. It was hard to concentrate, though. You wanted to call your parents, your brother, your friends; everyone! Not to mention the ring itself was distracting. You weren’t expecting something quite so…large. Then again, Harry was the gaudy ring type, so it shouldn’t be that surprising that he went all out.

“You two should go home to be with Andy to celebrate.” Lisa says. “We can all go down to the pub another time.”

“No, it’s alright, he’ll probably be annoyed if we pick him up too early from his friend’s.” Harry says.

“I actually wouldn’t mind going home...had a six hour flight earlier, you know?”

“Shit, you’re right. No one minds waiting a few days?”

“Not at all.” Janette says. “Let’s just all meet up Friday, it’ll be more fun.”

You drive separately back to the house, and Harry helps you get your things inside. You wrap your arms around his neck and kiss him. You suck on his bottom lip and he moans into you.

“This is why you wanted to come back, huh?” He smirks.

“You’re not the only one that’s good at being sneaky.”

You couldn’t feel luckier than you do now, to be engaged to the absolute love of your life.

#harry styles #office neighbors #harry styles fic #harry styles fanfic #harry styles imagine #harry styles series #harry styles x reader #harry styles x y/n #harry styles y/n #harry styles angst #harry styles fluff #harry styles smut #pls tag if you reblog #i like knowing your thoughts

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fraks · 3 years

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LEVERAGE REDEMPTION 1X13 THE HURRICANE JOB

- this half season splits up the team a lot. both literally by putting them in completely different locations and figuratively by having episodes very focused on certain people. breanna wasn't in golf job AT ALL. i'm not sure i like it. i'd enjoy it more if they split the team up in a way that put h/s alone together and there's only one bed.

- why yes, i had a little freak-out. for a hot second, harry and soph just made it sound like they pulled a job, just the two of them. but the others were there, too. they did, however, fly home together, WITHOUT the others. 👀

- i think this means that THEY'RE GONNA BE RIDING OUT THE HURRICANE TOGETHER AT THE OLD THEATRE. JUST THEM.

- lol "as long as they're nowhere near the gulf, they should be alright." a++, leverage.

- "i've taken every truth serum known to man and i come out smiling." LMFAO ELIOT. but also, wwwwow. they're really fucking with the ot3, aren't they? i mean, i get why hardison can't be there. frankly i'm amazed they managed to get three of the previous main five, and good for aldis for being popular! but without john rogers at the immediate helm, it feels like tptb are really trying to tear the ot3 apart, and while they've never been my main ship on this show, i a) do love them, and b) am ABSOLUTELY not here for tptb fucking with a giant part of the fandom community. from the episode summary, this ep was supposed to be "eliot and parker stuck at a hotel", would make for at least SOME ot3 content. but now that eliot has called the marshall, that's utter bogus, isn't it? "eliot and parker pretend to be siblings while eliot's gf is with them"? NO THANKS. and i like the marshall, and in my own personal headcanon, she can totally be involved with eliot without it invalidating the ot3, but DO NOT FUCK WITH THE OT3 FANS. i take that personally.

- huh i expected it'd be the old white guy (hotel owner?) they'd end up conning, but apparently not!

- eliot told the marshall about parker, but they "don't talk about work". what did you tell her, eliot? 😏

- fhakfhsjfbje ELIOT AND PARKER GESTURING IN SYNC. 🥰

- lmao parker pretending they have ""bosses"" at the ""agency"" they work for. that's so interesting to see, how parker's grifting style varies from sophie's. i mean, she's obviously gotten really good at the acting part of grifting, but it will never come naturally to her like it does to sophie. sophie inhabits a role completely, she BECOMES the character she's playing, because she loves grifting. for parker, it's a necessity. parker loves picking locks and cracking safes, crawling through vents and jumping off buildings, but not grifting. we already know parker can learn just about anything she sets her mind to, but burglary stuff is always going to be the thing that she enjoys the most. and i love that. i mean, don't get me wrong, i absolutely love that parker became the new mastermind at the end of leverage. it was perfect. but it had me worried that tptb would turn her into a superhuman version of herself, i guess. being the thief AND the grifter AND the mastermind at the same time is close to, if not actually, impossible. and there's no way to make that happen on screen, from a storytelling perspective. she physically cannot be conning a mark while at the same time cracking a safe while at the same time running around behind the scenes, rotating problems in her head. which is i think the storytelling reason for why sophie gets to run a lot of the cons this season, beyond the canon "sophie needs a project/distraction" explanation. anyway. i love everything about this. as much as i enjoy parker as the mastermind and grifter, i'm so happy she doesn't have to give up crawling through vents and jumping off buildings.

- HARRY AND SOPHIE STILL STUCK AT THE BASE TOGETHER. AND THEY HAD PIZZA. AND THEY'VE BEEN ALONE FOR HOURS.

- eliot just found the radio. so far, nothing has happened at the base yet. all we know is that, at some point, sophie will radio eliot to tell him harry's going to the hospital. I WONDER WHY. what are you doing to harry that he needs medical attention, soph? 👀

- "we should have some kind of bat signal." HARRY YOU RIDICULOUS DORK. 😍 but also i think you mean "eliot signal".

- "you're on an island in the gulf; you gotta get out of there!" oh harry. harry harry harry. you lovely man.

- HARRY AND FANTASY FOOTBALL. i really don't get the appeal of that, personally, but LOOK AT YOU USING YOUR GAMER AND GAMER-ADJACENT SKILLS, HARRY. and sophie's pretty impressed.

- eliot suddenly showing up out of the dark like that (and not for the first time) is equal parts amazing and terrifying. he's like one of those weeping angels from doctor who that move when you're not looking (idk, i don't watch doctor who, don't ask me about details, but i am terrified of those angels).

- ok the marshall is badass and i love her and she should totally be another leverage team's hitter. just not... eliot's (exclusive) girlfriend.

- harry wilson really just out there in 1b, throwing "sophie"s around left and right. 👀 i wonder why. i wonder what's made him suddenly start using her name all the time. like, there's a DEFINITE, noticeable difference after bucket job. he didn't use her name ONCE until unwellness job. and we never did see that conversation they had in bucket job. 👀

- LMAO AND THERE IS DOCTOR HARRY. awwww this must be so cool for noah. if you think @cminerva and i didn't make a "playing doctor" joke here, you'd be very much wrong.

- SOPHIE JUST CALLED HIM DOCTOR WILSON!

- and omg i have been counting "sophie"s and it's... impressive. it's like... they are so OBVIOUSLY endgame i'm worried it's TOO obvious. i mean, nate and sophie were endgame from the VERY first scene sophie was in. and it feels weird to like, have this repeat?

- "why are you protecting these people?" - "because you are supposed to." jfc eliot i already love you to the moon and back, there's no need to make me love you even more.

- "refill, doctor wilson!" - "indeed." why are you trying to get harry alone, soph? 👀 i mean, i know it's so eliot and parker can have a scene by themselves, but canonically, why? huh? harry letting sophie go first, his arm outstretched. HE'S SUCH A GENTLEMAN. where can i get my own harry wilson plsandty?

- "how do you know all that medical jargon anyway? - "tv." jsjfjsdjfjsjfjsjchejdjsjfwjxhw

- and they walk off together. 😍

- parker being worried eliot is going to leave them!!!!! and ARM OVER HER SHOULDER. 😭 i love them so much. and i have all the feelings anyone has ever had about the fact that parker thought eliot might leave them. TIL MY DYING DAY. they're forever.

- lmao the very last shot of the episode ends with a slow camera pan across and then almost under the counter they always sit at, and for a hot second, i expected the pan to go even further and show like, sophie's bra under the table or something. but then, harry would never let that happen. he'd make sure any and all stray bits of clothing were either very well hidden or back on his (or sophie's) person.

#leverage #leverage redemption #the hurricane job #sophie devereaux #harry wilson #tv: leverage #liveblogging #ship: harry x sophie #redemption spoilers #leverage redemption spoilers #leverage spoilers #spoilers

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moldisgoodforyou · 3 years

Text

lost time ch. 5.5

soooo it’s not the next part of study abroad fic like i promised but i wanted this one out of the drafts. pls enjoy

wordcount: 3.6k

warnings: all smut - this is part of chapter five and then a what if they actually fucked lmao

_____

They kept kissing for a while, Sophie lazily toying with the ends of his hair. After a couple minutes, he started kissing along her jaw, sucking just enough at a spot on her neck to elicit a soft moan from her. “I wish I came as your date.” He murmured against her skin as he traced his thumb back and forth over her hip. She froze at his confession, her head clouded without a clear thought. “You’re drunk.” She mumbled back, hand falling from his neck. “I’m not.” He argued, kissing her again. She could taste the rum on his lips, betraying his words.

“Well, I am.” She replied softly, hesitating again until he went in for another kiss. “And I’m still mad about your stupid death cup rule.” He scoffed, softly, but sounded more amused than anything. “You can’t call house rules when it’s not your house.” Sophie scowled and pressed her hand a little harder against his chest. “It’s more my house than yours. Can’t you just follow the rules?” He chuckled, trailing his hand higher and ran his index finger lightly along her spine. “Do you ever stop arguing, Soph?” She shivered at his touch, willing herself not to move closer. “Not with you.”

“Can we…?” He asked with a broad grin, tipping his head toward their houses, just a short walk away.

She paused, considering. “Do you think that’s a good idea?”

“Why wouldn’t it be?” He challenged, stepping closer and backing her up against the wall. She swallowed and felt her heart threatening to beat out of her chest, then willed herself not to think about it any longer - if she did, she’d back herself out of it. “I just. We’re - we’re not going to -” She stammered, and he raised his eyebrows. “Yes or no?”

“Yes.” She decided, pushing him a little so she could slip out from under him and walk off the back porch, then around the house. He snorted as he followed her. “Walking through the house isn’t an option for you?”

“Not really a fan of everyone thinking we hooked up.” She lied, striding down the sidewalk determinedly.

He furrowed his brow and jogged to catch up with her, confused. “I thought you said -”

“I did. We’re going to.”

“Then why -”

“It doesn’t matter, god, do you always ask so many questions?” She snapped frustratedly, hating herself as she did. She was better than this, wasn’t she? Being mean to Rafe had always been a coping mechanism to hide the inkling of a crush she’d had on him all those years.

He fell silent, frowning as he followed. Maybe this was a bad idea, right? Some small part of his brain reminded him of the one time he saw a therapist in training, as a favor to a friend also in the psychology major, and the therapist had told him he sounded like he was a little too comfortable allowing people in who repeatedly hurt him. All that after only thirty minutes of meeting the person and a few confessions. Probably bullshit, he always figured, it was just because he was in a vulnerable spot right after he was dumped by Brooklyn and shared a little too much.

They got to his house faster than he expected, and he offered his hand as they walked through the door. He was surprised when she accepted it, a little tentatively, and hoped she couldn’t feel his pulse through his palm. “My room’s just up here.”

“Okay. I like the house, it’s cool.” A lot of their flirty energy had died down and turned to nervous energy, and she wished she’d wiped her palm on her skirt before taking his hand.

“It was built in 1932 or something like that, it actually used to be the governor’s mansion -” He started, only to be interrupted by her. “I know. I had to do a research project on it once, I have the blueprints.”

“Oh.” He showed her into his room, thankful that he’d cleaned up earlier that day, and dropped her hand as he shut the door behind her. “So. Here it is.”

“Rafe?” She took a step closer, trapping him against the door like he’d had her earlier. Had he always had that little smattering of freckles across his nose? They were so faint by now she could hardly see it, but for a moment she wondered what they’d look like in summer, across his tanned skin.

“Yeah?” His hands found her waist easily and he dared to tease his thumb along the elastic of her skirt, nearly making her shudder.

“I didn’t really come here to talk.”

“Right.” He glanced between her eyes and her lips, tongue darting out briefly to wet his own.

She seemed amused, raising her eyebrows. “Am I always gonna have to make the first move?”

He shook his head quickly and leaned down, and she wasn’t sure who kissed who first. Their lips met hard in a heated kiss and it wasn’t long until he reached down and tapped one hand under her thigh. She took the hint and jumped to wrap her legs around his waist and her arms around his neck, rolling her hips a little into him.

He supported her with both hands under her thighs and groaned into her mouth as she rolled her hips. Her already-short skirt was halfway up her waist already so there was nearly nothing between them, especially considering his half-unbuttoned shirt and tight pants that left nothing to the imagination.

“Bed.” She breathed out, working at the rest of the buttons down his shirt. He nodded and gently dropped her down onto the bed, then looked up at her with a curious glance as he went to tug off her halter top. “Can I?”

“Yeah, here let me.” She nodded, sitting up just enough to wrestle off the top. He bit hard on his tongue as her breasts came loose, then reached out and cupped them, running his thumbs over her nipples and smirked. “You need to stop hiding these under those big hoodies you wear to class.”

“Oh, sorry, I’ll start just having my tits out in class.” She rolled her eyes, shoving his shirt off his shoulders. “Totally reasonable.”

He laughed and pushed her up the bed, pressing kisses down her throat and along her collarbone. “Sounds perfect to me.” She moaned when he hit the perfect spot at the base of her neck, leaving a red mark sure to bruise. “Rafe.”

He paused for a moment and had to will himself not to cum in his pants just at that sound alone. “Hm?”

“Do you really have to leave hickeys like we’re fifteen?” She threaded her fingers in his hair, wanting to touch nearly every inch of his skin. If she was going to do this once - and she swore she wouldn’t do it again - she was going to make it count.

“Do you not like them?” As if to prove a point, he sucked another one at the swell of her breast, then skated his teeth along her nipple as he moved further down. Her grip tightened in his hair and she let her head fall back, gasping. “Just - fuck - just not where anyone can see.”

“I can do that.” He affirmed, taking his time to leave little kisses and marks all over her chest. She grit her teeth when it went on a little too long, shifting around below him. “Cameron - you can -”

“Yeah?” He lifted his head and moved up to kiss her again but she whined in protest, pressing his head back down. “Come on.”

“Where do you want me?”

“Rafe.”

“I need words, Soph.”

She scowled, not wanting to admit it any way that she was enjoying herself. “You’re just trying to hold something over me.”

He smirked, thoroughly amused. “I’m trying to fuck you, actually, if you’ll let me.”

“Do you always take this long?” She reached for the zipper of his pants in between them and he laughed, pushing her hand away. “Are you this annoying with every man you sleep with?”

“It’s not like I’ll come that way anyways.” She mumbled under her breath and he paused, cocking his head a little. Sophie hated that she wanted to comb her fingers through his beautiful floppy hair.

“You’ve never come from someone touching you?” He asked, a little softer, gentler with his touch. She huffed and shook her head, not wanting to add that she’d hardly come from sex anyways. “No. Now can we just -”

“No, no, I’m going to take my time.” He declared, moving down her body and nipped along her hips, the waistband of her skirt, then slowly unbuttoned her skirt and looked up at her. “Okay?”

“Okay.” She breathed out, embarrassed at how much control he had over her.

He carefully slid her skirt down her legs and let it fall to the ground, then nudged her legs open, positioning himself in between them.

“What are you - oh, fuck.” She cursed as he placed an open-mouthed kiss directly on her clothed clit. He smirked against her and pushed her legs a little wider, then kissed along her inner thighs, peppering kisses along the hem of her panties.

“Can I?” He asked, hooking his fingers in the sides of her thong. She nodded quickly and he pulled it down - just a little bit - then took it in both hands, ripped it clean in half and stuffed it in his back pocket.

“Did you just -” She sat up a little, trying to close her legs, but he nudged them back open, giving her a wolfish grin. “Yeah, I wanted a souvenir.”

“Oh my fucking god.” Sophie laughed a little in disbelief, but it quickly turned into a moan as he licked a wide stripe up her center, wasting no time. He grinned and replaced his tongue with his fingers, first one then two, as he glanced up at her. “Soaked just for me?”

“In your dreams.” She bit back and he shook his head with a grin. Only she could keep up an argument during sex. “You’re in them more often than you’d think, sweetheart.”

As much as she wanted to hate sweetheart, it felt like a knot was forming in her stomach just from the nickname alone. All she could manage in response was just “oh?”

He smirked and continued his ministrations, slow pumps in and out combined with flicks of his tongue over her clit, slowly building up to it. She whined a little, biting her lip. “More.”

“Yeah? You like that, Soph?” Rafe glanced up to gauge her expression and nearly laughed when he saw her head dropped back against the pillows and her hands fisted in the sheets. He just picked up his pace instead, moving to suck on her clit. When he did that, and curled his fingers inside of her, she gasped sharply. “Do that again.”

He used his free hand to push her leg out again, as they were close to clamping around his head, and continued until she was gasping again, her legs starting to shake. “Oh my god - fucking hell, Rafe -”

Rafe took a mental picture and swore he’d never forget how goddamn pretty she looked as she came, calling out his name. It was quite literally a dream come true and he worked her through the orgasm, then climbed back up the bed to rest next to her and give her a moment to recover.

She tipped her head over, looking almost...surprised. “I didn’t think I could - I’ve never -”

He smirked. “Told you I’d take my time.”

“Arrogant asshole.” She bit back, but it didn’t really have the same effect when she was still a little out of breath and had a blissful expression. Sophie glanced down and saw him straining against his pants, and briefly reconsidered - if she just got up and left right then, would Rafe hate her for all of eternity for giving him blue balls?

Then he rolled on top of her, and she felt him against her core for a tiny moment, and decided she could at least go for a handjob if she couldn’t handle the whole thing. He deserved that at the very least, for the way he just made her feel. Also, why had no one in her social circles ever commented on the size of him before, even in high school? He had to be at least six, maybe seven -

“Soph.” Rafe placed a quick kiss on her lips, laughing when she was jerked out of her reverie and blinked up at him.

“Yes?”

“Are you okay?”

She nodded quickly, giving him a small smile. “Are you?”

“I have condoms....” he trailed off, raising his eyebrows with the insinuation. She gave him a small nod and pushed him over onto his back, straddling him and started to work at his button fly.

He let out a choked breath of surprise, just staring at her for a moment.

She felt his gaze and glanced up at him as she undid the last button, placing her hand over his length. “What?”

He swallowed, hard. “I think you might have to yank my pants off. They’re a little tight around the ass.”

Sophie giggled and got off of him so he could swing his legs off to the side of the bed, trying to tug down what he could. She joined in after a moment when they got stuck around his thighs, yanking until she heard a solid rip and immediately put her hands up, eyes wide. “Shit, I didn’t mean to -”

“It’s fine, I’ll just buy another pair.” He excused right away and she bristled, hearing arrogance seep into his tone. That was the reminder she needed that he wasn’t just a hot random hookup, this was Rafe, and even if he could make her cum in five damn minutes from a flick of his tongue and twist of his fingers, he was still everything she hated about him too.

“Where are your condoms?” She reached for his bedside table and he grabbed her hand to stop her, not wanting her to see the drafted screenplay he’d been working on for a class. It featured two sworn enemies, who’d known each other for ages then ended up at the same college even though it was far away from their hometown - fine, there were too many similarities that she’d catch right away. He kicked off what was now three big scraps of his pants and reached in the very back of the drawer to pull out a condom, a sore reminder of how long it’d been.

She sat back on the bed and tried to look impassive at his size, reminding herself she really should have assumed, with the way he was built and all of 6’3”. He caught her staring and smirked, keeping his eyes locked with hers as he rolled the condom on. “You okay?”

She blushed, immediately flustered. “I’m fine.”

“When was the last time you...?”

She huffed, crossing her arms. “Is that really important?”

He shook his head quickly, genuine. “No! No, not at all, but we can just take things slower. If you want.”

She appreciated the gesture - he was probably right - but grabbed his hand anyways, pulling him down to the bed. “I’ll be fine.”

He leaned over her, giving her a long kiss and combed his fingers through her hair. Just that action alone had her wanting to melt into him and kiss him for ages, until their lips fell off - she had to remind herself that this wasn’t a romantic thing with how soft he was being. He nearly reached to hold her hand, then just ran it up her side instead, telling himself that she wouldn’t want that, anyways.

“Rafe.” She murmured against his lips, feeling overwhelmed from the way his hands were everywhere and how he was so damn close and god, were his eyes always that pretty?

He pulled back a little, concerned. “Did I do something wr -”

She didn’t give him the chance to finish. Sophie pushed him onto his back, straddling him and rocked her hips once against him. “You’re taking too long.”

He groaned, his hands immediately going to her waist to support her. “Didn’t realize we were on a time crunch.”

“I wouldn’t be doing this if I was sober.” She reminded him and he frowned, squeezing her hips gently. “You’re not drunk though. I didn’t think you were even tipsy by now.”

“I ...” She trailed off, feeling a little guilty at the way he froze. “I wouldn’t have agreed to this normally.” She wasn’t sure why, exactly, she was lying to him, just felt the need to put him in his place, remind him what they’d be going back to after this one-night stand.

His brow knitted with concern. “We can stop, Sophie, I’m not going to push you to do anything you don’t want to.”

“No, no, I didn’t mean it like that.” She amended quickly, feeling way too exposed for a moment to be having that conversation. “I just meant - I don’t know. This isn’t happening again, so. Enjoy it while you last.”

He relaxed a little, his frown turning to a smirk. “While I last? I think it only took me five minutes to watch you cum.”

She had no response to that, so she just huffed, standing up on her knees. “Are you good?”

He nodded, watching with bated breath as she took his cock and lined it up with her entrance, slowly sinking down onto him. He groaned, letting his head fall back for a moment, but kept his grip on her hips. “Fuck, Sophie.”

Just him saying her name - like that - sent a pulse straight to her core. She bit the inside of her cheek hard as she sunk down all the way on him, waiting just a moment for it to turn from a flash of pain to pleasure. “Just - just let me -”

He nodded, rubbing circles on her hips with his thumbs. “Take your time.”

She scowled, almost taking it as a challenge. “I’m fine.” She started bouncing her hips on him, leaning forward a little and bracing her hands on his abs. It took her a moment, but it started feeling better and better, and Rafe’s groans and gasps were enough to spur her on.

“Oh, c’mon...so good, Soph...” He encouraged, bringing his hips up to meet hers. For a few minutes the room was just filled with their breathy pants and the sound of skin on skin. When he felt himself getting closer, he reached in between them and started rubbing circles across her clit, loving the way she gasped at his touch.

She nearly flinched, the feeling of everything being so close to overwhelming. She was so close to reaching her high - again - and kept her eyes on his for a heated moment.

Rafe kept up his motions until he could tell she was close, about to snap, and he was too. “There we go, Soph, that’s my good girl -”

“Not yours.” She snapped hastily and he let his head flop back against the pillow, frustrated, and dropped his hand. “Didn’t mean it like that -”

She shook her head. “Whatever. Doesn’t matter.” Sophie grabbed his hand and brought it back to her clit, hoping to spur him on again. “Please don’t stop - oh, yes, fuck, there -”

He resumed his gentle rubbing, a little more frenzied now, and groaned as she moved her hips a little differently, rolling them and bouncing on him somehow all at the same time. It only took a minute longer for her to come and as she clenched around him, it spurred him on too, making him let out an embarrassingly loud groan.

As they both caught their breath and she climbed off him, panting, he shot her a cocky grin. “Sure you don’t want to do that again?”

She chose to ignore him and stood, hoping it didn’t show how she stumbled just a little from weak legs. She reached for her skirt then paused, standing up with crossed arms. “You took my underwear.”

“I did.” He nodded, leaning back with his hands behind his head, on full display.

Sophie let her gaze rake over him for a second, but he didn’t notice as he was doing the same. “And you ripped it.”

He had the decency to look a little bashful at that. “Probably shouldn’t have.”

“What the hell am I supposed to do?”

Rafe gave her a wry smile. “You could stay the night and I’ll give you my boxers to sleep in.”

She huffed and pulled her skirt on anyways, rolling her eyes. “Give it up, Cameron. Never gonna happen.”

“I’m sorry, did you just disassociate from the last half hour?” He raised his eyebrows, smirking.

Sophie wrestled on her halter top, thoroughly annoyed by now - god, only he could switch her mood so easily. “Worst sex of my life.”

He let out a loud, barking laugh. “You know that’s not true.”

“I - well - whatever. I’m leaving.” She started toward the door and he sprung out of bed, tugging on a pair of boxers. “No, hold on, I’m not letting you walk home alone.”

She stopped in the doorframe, crossing her arms. “This is ridiculous, we’re not dating -”

“It’s still three am and I’m not letting you walk.” He shoved his feet into boat shoes and grabbed his keys from his nightstand. “Come on.”

“Just a drive home?” She asked, stepping aside so she could follow him down the hall.

“Just a drive home.” He confirmed. “Jesus, Sophie, it’s just a kind gesture, not a committed relationship.”

“I know, just. I don’t know.”

He cast a glance back at her, frowning a little. “Your last boyfriend was that bad, huh?”

She rolled her eyes, following him outside to the car and got in (after he insisted upon opening the door for her). “No comment.”

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#rafe cameron #rafe cameron smut #outer banks #outer banks smut #obx smut #rafe cameron fanfic #outer banks fanfic #rafe x sophie #college rafe #mine #frat rafe

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