#me and my mam went to find spots from photos when she was a kid and when my grandma was a kid that we found recently

[lopsidedtreetrunks]

Took a lil trip out to Holy Island today. Didn't take many photos, but here's some of my favs that I did take 😊

#most of them are of the castle but 💁 #me and my mam went to find spots from photos when she was a kid and when my grandma was a kid that we found recently #and we succeeded 🤠👍 #holy island #northumberland #berwick #berwick upon tweed #lindisfarne #travel #photography #history #england #northern england #also didnt realise i totally cropped the top of the cross off oops lmao #and it wasnt straight 😭 #let it be known i am no professional photographer bfjsksjd (obviously)

[luci-in-trenchcoats]

By My Side (Part 5)

Summary: The reader has finally hired a replacement manager and after a dinner with her family, she and Jensen confront some underlying feelings...

Masterlist

Pairing: Bodyguard!Jensen x reader

Square: Free Space

Word Count: 3,200ish

Warnings: mature (language, smut (m/f))

A/N: Enjoy!

A/N #2: Written for @spnkinkbingo​

_________

You stretched as you woke the next morning, getting ready for the day of entertaining your family. You bumped into Jensen in the kitchen, a pair of jeans and a simple black henley on him. You smiled but he frowned and you instantly made a face.

“Y/N, don’t turn off your phone ever. It’s a rule, remember?” he said before returning to slurping up his cereal.

“Oh. Sorry. I forgot,” you said.

“Please try not to do it again,” he said. He finished with his bowl and you took the cereal from nearby, pouring yourself some. “Are you deciding on a new manager today?”

“Yeah. I was thinking of that David guy?”

“The british one?”

“No, that was the Mark one. He was scottish I think. I’m not positive,” you said.

“Is David the one that had that intern? The little guy?” he asked.

“Alex? No, he was his just his driver. It doesn’t matter. I was thinking of David. What do you think?”

“Why does it matter what I think?”

“You did full background checks on all of these guys,” you said. “Who do you trust?”

“Honestly?” he asked. “I like Jake.”

“The young one?”

“He lacks the experience of the others but I don’t see him screwing you over. He was a navy cadet in college. Had to drop out due to a knee injury. Him I trust. Not that I don’t the others but I got a good feeling from the kid.”

“I’ll take that into consideration,” you said. He stood and you grabbed the milk, Jensen wiping off his mouth. “Have fun with your sister.”

“She’s got a work thing at the moment but hopefully she wraps up soon and I can take her out for some fun for a bit. I’ll see you tonight,” he said.

“Later, Jay,” you said, getting a wave from him as he walked out. You poured the milk into your bowl and took out your phone, dialing and hearing a ring tone a few times.

“Hello?” the other end answered.

“Hi, Jake? This is Y/N Y/L/N. I was wondering if you were still interested in the manager position? If you are, you are in for a fun first day with that restaurant photo.”

“Mmm. Smells great in here,” hummed Jensen when he walked into the kitchen that evening. Your mom smiled and immediately rushed over, Jensen tensing up as she gave him a hug.

“Mom. Don’t bug Jensen,” you said.

“It’s alright,” he said, noticing your brothers were nowhere to be found. “Nice to meet you, Mrs. Y/L/N.”

“Oh his arms are even bigger than you said! He’s handsome too,” she said. You rolled your eyes as you worked over the pot at the stove, Chuck turning around beside you and chuckling. “Jensen, this is my husband, Chuck.”

“Nice to meet you sir,” said Jensen, holding out a hand.

“You know everything about us already, don’t you,” he said as he shook it.

“Pretty much,” said Jensen. “Y/N’s safety is important and knowing about her family is part of that.”

“Well we certainly feel a lot better with her hiring someone. We’ve never been fans of her living alone,” he said.

“Y/N is quite capable. I’m just here to stop those situations from ever happening,” said Jensen.

“You will be joining us to eat, won’t you? Y/N and Chuck are making us dinner,” said your mom.

“That’s very kind of you mam but-”

“I insist,” she said.

“Just let it go Jensen,” you said. “This’ll be done soon if you want to tell the guys.”

Your parents headed outside, Jensen taking up Chuck’s spot beside you and stirring the cooked vegetables in the pan.

“None of them have any idea about the fake kidnapping or anything else, do they.”

“Nope. Nothing besides what happened last night. Michael and Nick know about the manager thing but that’s it. I’d prefer to keep it that way,” you said. The timer went off and Jensen got it, pushing some of the food around with a wooden spoon.

“They won’t hear anything from me,” he said. “Smells delicious.”

“Thanks. How’d it go with your sister?” 

“Good. I need to discuss something with you later after your family is gone for the night.”

“Everything alright?” you asked. 

“We’ll talk about it later,” he said, the back door opening. “Let’s dig in while it’s hot.”

“Jensen,” you said, finding him out by the pool that night, his feet soaking in the water. “My folks and the wonder twins are gone for the night.”

“Wonder twins,” he chuckled. “They act differently when your parents are around.”

“You picked up on that huh.”

“It’s pretty obvious,” he said. You sat beside him and stuck your feet in, Jensen leaning back on his palms. 

“What’s going on big guy?”

“Are you asking as my boss or my friend?”

“Friend,” you said, bumping his shoulder. “What’s up?”

“My sister wasn’t too happy to see big brother on the news nearly getting shot at. She asked me to consider a different line of work,” he said.

“Oh,” you said.

“Yeah. I’m not quitting, just so you know. A random guy running from the cops doesn’t scare me. Only reason I was on the news was cause of you,” he said.

“There’s a but in there somewhere though.”

“No, not really,” he said. “Just wanted to talk to you about it.”

“So there’s no problem.”

“I like when there’s no problems,” he chuckled. “My job is a lot easier when it’s simple like that.”

“You still have your gun on you.”

“Precaution,” he said. He sat up and took it out from behind his back. “You ever shoot one?”

“Pretend but real no, I haven’t. Can I hold it?” you asked. He set it in your hands, watching you look it over for a moment.

“You’ve had gun training,” he said.

“First season went through a lot of that stuff on the show. We get refreshers,” you said. “Colt?”

“Yes it is,” he said. “You use a glock on your show I believe.” 

Your head popped up and he laughed.

“Yes, even I do occasionally watch TV. Nice gun safety. You never leave your finger on the trigger.”

“Not supposed to, even with a fake gun they taught us,” you said. You lifted it up and held it out, finding it to be heavier than the one you were used to. “I like the grip.”

“You’d probably like a smaller Colt, fit your hands better,” he said. You handed it back to him and he tucked it away. “You see where the safety was on it?”

“Yeah?” you said. He reached behind himself and took your hand, guiding it to the back holster. 

“If I can’t use this, grips on the right side. Take it out, flick off the safety, point and squeeze. It’s that simple.”

“I sincerely hope I never have to put that into practice,” you said as he dropped your hand. Your finger brushed against his back, Jensen frozen solid before you pulled away.

“Any day I don’t have to touch it is a good one,” he said, your hand settling back in your lap. “That...tickled was all.”

“Green beans and tickling. You got some funny forms of kryptonite, Ackles,” you said. 

“Beats actual kryptonite,” he said. “Been awhile since I’ve been tickled.”

“I bet you like it. Being able to feel vulnerable and safe with someone.”

“Doesn’t everyone?”

Your feet kicked in the water, a smile growing on your face. He bumped your shoulder and your turned your head. He looked different, a softness about him. 

“Are you happy?” you asked. 

“What?”

“Are you happy? I...I don’t want you to feel like you have to choose this job over other things in life, like a relationship. You can have both, Jensen.”

“I’m lost.”

“I’m just saying...you can have a girlfriend and be my bodyguard. You don’t have to pick one or the other.”

“Girls get jealous,” he said. “In my experience. The hours are crap. The inconsistent schedule. I’m too…”

“Too what?”

“Last girlfriend I had...I can’t believe I’m telling you this.” He rubbed the back of his neck and you lightly nudged his foot in the water. “She thought I was too broken for a normal relationship.”

“What?”

“I should have kept my mouth shut,” he mumbled. He started to stand but you grabbed his arm, Jensen sighing and turning to you. “What? I think she might have had a point.”

“I think that was horrible of her to say and I’m sorry she never saw the real you cause him? He is so not broken.”

“You have this perfect image of me. Strong and capable. Dominant. Alpha. In charge, gives no fucks. That’s the bodyguard. That’s not me.”

“I know. I know Jensen likes being tickled,” you said. He rolled his eyes but you caught his chin, Jensen swallowing. “I know he likes the touch of soft fleece and expensive navy boxer briefs. I know he likes classic rock and sleeping in and likes two cream, one sugar in his coffee. I know he talks to his parents every Thursday night for at least an hour. I know he’s quiet around people he doesn’t know and I know he opens up when he’s well and truly comfortable with someone. I know he’s kind and I know he has nightmares sometimes. I know he can play the piano and guitar and he sings in the shower when he’s happy and he checks on me at night and puts my blankets back on me and doesn’t say a word about it, even when I thought he hated me.”

“You pay attention to me,” he said quietly. “Even though you don’t like me around.”

“I don’t like the bodyguard. He’s okay sometimes but a bit much all the time. But Jensen...him I like. I like him alot.”

“You don’t know what I’ve done. What’s been done to me.”

“You’re not broken, Jensen. I’m never going to believe that so don’t even try.”

He put a hand on the back of your neck, pulling you in close, so close you could feel his breath  on your face. 

“You’re supposed to tell me I’m screwed up. We’re not supposed to be friends. Don’t you understand that?” he said. Your nose pressed against his, green eyes locked on yours.

“I don’t think I’ll ever understand that,” you said. “What do you want?”

“I can’t have what I want,” he breathed out.

“You might be wrong about that. Actually, I’m positive you are,” you said, his hand sliding up a few inches into your hair. “Stop being scared and just tell me what you want.”

He leaned in the last inch between you, gentle lips connecting with yours. He didn’t move for a few seconds, eyes opening when he inched away just slightly. You stared at him and you saw him get the message, another kiss landing on your lips, his free hand sliding around your back. Your arms went over his shoulders, Jensen leaving kitten kisses on you before connecting roughly, giving your whole body a squeeze.

“Bedroom,” you breathed out. He moved back long enough to take his feet out of the water. He hoisted you up and carried you inside, your arms and legs wrapped around him as you returned to kissing him. There was a light scratch from the stubble on his jaw and you tugged on his bottom lip, Jensen pausing as he tried to shut the door behind him with one hand. 

You took the opportunity to tease him, kissing under his jaw while he got the back door shut and locked, his hand slapping the alarm system and the little ping saying it was armed. He arched his neck back and spun around, pushing you up against the wall. You squeezed him tighter, getting gentle bites along your collar bone.

He tore the two of you away and rushed you upstairs, stepping up onto your bed and walking forward on his knees until he could lower you down to your back. His eyes looked darker but playful as he moved up and leaned over you.

“Condom?” he asked.

“I’m on medication,” you said. “You clean?”

“Yeah,” he said.

“Same.”

“Good cause I really don’t think I can wait any longer to do this,” he said. He tore off his shirt and you immediately shot your hands up to his chest, running your fingers down it. 

“You’re so damn hot,” you said. He rolled off the bed and dropped his pants, giving you time to get your shirt off. By the time your head wasn’t covered, you had a perfect view of his ass, creamy and perky. Your bra went off quickly, Jensen turning around and making you pause.

“What?” he asked, glancing down at himself and then you.

“Lucky me,” you said. He smirked and you kicked off your shorts and underwear, Jensen crawling back on the bed and hovering over you. You kissed him and he planted his forearm by your head, his other hand trailing down to your breast. He kneaded the flesh gently, swiping a thumb over the bud and getting a tiny gasp out of you. He teased the same nipple with light touches and twists before working the other one over.

By the time his hand made its way between your folds you were soaking wet already.

“How do you want it?” he murmured against your lips, circling your clit lightly with his thumb.

“Want what?” you asked, arching your hips up into his touch.

“Slow. Fast. What do you like?” he asked, kissing your jaw as your breath hitched. 

“Show me how you’ve imagined this going,” you said. He smiled and you felt the head of his cock brush you folds. He teased the head against your clit a few times before you reached down and were guiding him into your hole.

He was a smidge thicker than you were expecting and his length was perfect, solid, long but not too much. He surprised you by wrapping his arms around you pulling you to sit up on his lap, your legs hanging around his waist. He thrust his hips up and you bit your bottom lip, landing back down on him. He moved again and hit your g-spot, your jaw dropping.

“That’s the spot,” he murmured, kissing you as he started a slow and steady rhythm. You hung on for the ride, his hands on your thighs, thick cock pumping into you over and over and over again. You’d been able to play on your own and hit that spot but never with a guy, never had that low pressure simmering in your core.

God it was going to fucking destroy you when it hit.

You couldn’t wait.

You smiled as your nerves tingled, Jensen kissing you all over, his grip strong but everything else soft and gentle. His hair started to dampen with sweat and and you felt a layer cover your body, the steady pace getting you both closer. 

He was nipping at your shoulder when you rolled your hips, Jensen grunting lowly and burying his face in your neck. That was a sound you could definitely do with more of and you did the motion again, Jensen pushing you onto his cock this time. You both moaned, Jensen’s slow pace picking up just a hair.

You were rolling your hips when his tip pounded inside of you and the low pressure started to explode inside you. You gasped and weren’t even sure what the hell kind of sound you’d made, suddenly aware of hot wetness filling you up. Jensen tensed up and slowly started to stop moving, your breath finally coming back to you as he stilled. He dropped his forehead on your shoulder and panted, your hands running up and down his back, playing with his hair some.

You giggled, Jensen letting out one himself and you swore your heart couldn’t have melted any faster. You picked your head up as he did, giving him a long kiss. He rested his forehead on your own, a smile dancing across his face.

“That was the best sex of my fucking life,” you said. He smiled hard and lowered you back down to the bed, holding up a finger. He pulled out and took a few shaky steps before going into your bathroom. He returned with a washcloth, wiping you clean. He tossed it back in the bathroom before he bent down to his pants. You frowned, Jensen looking back as he unclipped his holster from his belt. He walked it over to the unused nightstand and set it on top before he slid next to you. You pushed the covers back and slid under the sheet together, Jensen rolling you close to him and up against his chest.

“I don’t hookup,” he said.

“Okay,” you said. You shut your eyes and burrowed in a bit closer, Jensen pulling you to use his chest as a pillow. “I really liked that. It was fun.”

“We should do it again sometime,” he said. He turned his head and you smiled, Jensen moving a stray piece of hair away from your cheek. 

“I would be much safer if you slept close by, wouldn’t I?” you asked coyly, Jensen already seeing through it.

“Oh yes, much safer.”

“Maybe you should sleep in here from now on...for safety.”

“In the name of safety, for sure,” he said, kissing your temple. “Real talk for a second. If this is just a hookup for you can you let me now over-”

You put a hand over his mouth and stared at him, slowly moving it away and giving him a kiss.

“I like you, Jensen. I really like you.”

He smiled and took your hand, laying it over his chest so you were holding him.

“Goodnight,” you said, kissing his shoulder.

“Night, Y/N,” he said, lightly dancing his fingers over your hip. “Sleep good.”

_______

A/N: Read Part 6 here!

#spnkinkbingo #spn #supernatural #jensen ackles #jensen ackles au #jensen ackles x reader #jensen ackles x you #au #bodyguard!jensen #bodyguard!AU #bodyguard!jensen x reader #spn fanfic #supernatural fanfiction

[thebrochtuarachs]

Something in the Rain - “Finding Solid Ground”

A/N:  Hi all! This chapter has been in the drafts for quite sometime now but I only had the time to pick up the writing. Thank you so much for your patience with my slow updates but rest assured, I absolutely love this story and daydream about the chapters ahead. As always, your comment and suggestions help a lot moving this story forward. Hope you all are keeping safe and healthy! Till the next one!

AO3  / C1: A Day In June : C2: Definitely, Maybe : C3: So We Meet Again : C4: Friday Lunch

XXXXX

She was 45 minutes late.

Claire was running as fast as she could, catching some curious eyes on her as she raced towards Mrs. Kim’s Korean Street Food Hub to hopefully, still catch Jamie for their lunch.

She got off from her morning surgery quite late due to some complications but she still went as courtesy and because, in all honesty, she still wanted to see him. Their last encounter kind of left them in an awkward place and she was hoping that this meeting could help clarify some things. She has been waiting for this all week but alas, life (and medicine) had other plans.

Claire entered the store and knew instantly that he wasn’t there. The place was empty after the lunch rush and she sighed in disappointment.

“Claire!” Mrs. Kim suddenly called out. “This is for you, left by your friend”, she said while handing her a piece of paper.

“Thank you” Claire replied, opening it on spot.

Hi Claire,

Sorry, I left before you arrived but I have to get back to the office. Don’t worry about the wait, I really don’t mind but I just have a packed schedule today.

Forgive me if this is too forward but here’s my number. No pressure! Just figured we can text or call whenever is a better time to catch up. Just hit me up when you feel like it and I’ll be on the other line.

I do hope to hear from you soon. If not, I’ll be here next Friday, same time :)

Jamie

Claire did not waste any more time and punched in Jamie’s mobile number to call. After three rings, he answered.

“Hello?”

“Jamie? It’s me, Claire.”

“Claire, hi! I see you got my note.”

“I did. I am so sorry. My surgery ran a little bit long and…”

“Don’t worry, I figured that must be it.” he said cheerfully, cutting her off before she went into a long explanation. “I mean, you save lives and all, couldn’t be angry about that.”

Claire sighed relief on the other line and couldn’t believe just how understanding he is. So understanding that she’s starting to wonder if he’s even real. She hasn't really met anyone that chivalrous and it captures her.

“Oh, wow. Thank you - and thank you for the note and your number. My guilt would’ve eaten me alive if I couldn’t apologize to you.”

“You don’t think it was too forward?”

“No, not at all. To be honest, I was going to ask it last week before we got, erm, interrupted.”

“Well, that’s good to know. And in any case, I would’ve given it.” Jamie said.

She could hear his smile from the other line and she couldn’t help but smile too.

“Anyhow,” Claire followed. “I am so sorry I missed you today. To make up for it, would you happen to be doing anything tomorrow?”

“Hmm, let me check." Jamie checked his board calendar. "Nope, my weekend is free. Anything you had in mind?”

“Well, if you’re up for it, I’d like to invite you to the center tomorrow, see what we’re doing with the kids. Fair warning though, they get a little rowdy sometimes.”

“I’m game! Text me the details and what time to meet you.”

“Really? Great! Sure, I’ll text you the details in a bit”

“Will wait for it. Claire, sorry to cut this short but I have to run to a meeting. I’ll see you tomorrow?”

“Oh no, please. Go ahead. I’ll see you tomorrow, Alright, bye!”

-

It was a Saturday, two weeks since their encounter by the crossing, and now she’s waiting for him to arrive and bring him to one of the most special places for her.

Claire hadn’t absolutely thought through what inviting Jamie to the center would mean. Reflecting on yesterday, a part of Claire thought she may have panicked and this invite might’ve been a mistake. On another end was a part of her that was excited to see him and if she was really being honest, spend time with him, and show her the work they have been doing.

She had told her their meeting story and the extended invite to her friends and staff but left out the part about their lunches. She messaged the team on WhatsApp about their upcoming guest and her inbox has blown with messages asking her for more details about the man himself. She messaged that they’ll be able to find out for themselves tomorrow when they meet him and turned off her phone.

“Claire?” Deep in thought she hadn’t seen or hear Jamie arrive. “You okay?”

“Yeah, sorry. Spaced out there for a bit” she embarrassingly admitted.

“A penny for your thoughts?” Jamie asked as Claire pointed the way in.

“Erm, nothing much. Just thinking about giving you fair warning about everyone upstairs. They’re quite curious about you, Jamie Fraser.” she said jokingly the half truth.

Jamie got a bit nervous suddenly and Claire felt it. “Don’t worry about it, I’ll save you if they get too rowdy. Be ready to answer questions though." She said, smiling, hoping to ease his thoughts.

“Is any topic off limits? Should I not mention anything to them?”

“I leave it to you. But if you ask me, just be yourself and charm everyone away”

Jamie chuckled and Claire turned to him. “What?”

“You think I’m charming?”

Claire laughed and smacked him in the arm. “Oh, bug off!”

“I’ll take that as a yes”

“Anyway!” Claire interrupted. “Today’s event is just art and crafts and a story session. The rest, the kids can do and play how ever they like. I usually just play with any kid who asks me to and time just flies and suddenly, the afternoon is done.”

“Got it. I honestly hope I can help more than distract or whatever”

“Pssh, you’ll be fine, Jamie. You’ll be fine”

--

The moment the elevator doors opened, a line of people greeted Jamie and Claire at the entrance.

“Hello, everyone” Claire greeted but to her surprise, no one spoke or moved. Everyone was just looking at Jamie. “This is Jamie. Jamie Fraser, our guest for today”

She ushered them closer to the stunned group and began to introduce them one by one.

Mary, the receptionist and admin assistant.

Mrs. Graham, the secretariat and head of operations.

Joe, also a surgeon from Claire’s hospital.

Frank, the history professor he’d met a week earlier.

Geilis, a botanist and herbalist.

“It’s nice to meet you all. Thank you for having me this afternoon.” Jamie said and it was only then that the ice was broken.

“Hi, Jamie was it? Can I call you Jamie?” Mrs. Graham prodded.

“Yes, Mam”

“Alright, this way. Let me show you around”

As Mrs. Graham swept Jamie away for a short tour, the rest of the group crowded Claire with questions.

“Okay, he is even more handsome than in the pictures!” Geilis excitedly said.

“Pictures?” Claire asked.

“Ugh, I sometimes forget you’re a doctor who needs to catch up to the times” Geilis pinched her nose jokingly. “Jamie was named one of Scotland’s most eligible bachelors in a tatler magazine last year. There’s pretty striking photos of him in a tux and in casual clothes.”

“I remember that issue. Gail had one lying in the house and I happen to peruse it one time. You’re right, the pictures don’t do him justice.” Joe chimed in.

“I had no idea. I mean, I just literally bumped into the guy on the street!” Claire said, a curiosity pooling in her mind. She had to look for that magazine later.

“Such a meet-cute story. Ugh, Claire! It’s like something out of the books or movies” Geilis added.

“Psh, he seems too manly for me. I mean, who is that fit and that put together.” Frank mused.

“I think he’s quite charming” Joe added.

“If you ask me, Claire, I don’t know what’s going on between you two but keep it going” Geilis added.

“Aish, nothing is going on. I just extended a polite invite to make up for - “ Claire stopped as Jamie and Mrs. Graham arrived back, thankful for the Interruption.

“Make up for what?” Geilis asked, not missing that info.

“Oh, nothing.”

“Mhm” Geilis hummed raising an eyebrow to Claire. She’ll pull it out of her later.

---

It was a long but fun afternoon for everyone.

Afterwards, one by one, the space cleared out, the kids were picked up, saying goodbye to the staff with some even approaching and waving at Jamie as they left, leaving him with a heartwarming feeling.

“Well, another successful weekend, folks!” Frank called out and the team gave themselves applause.

“Great job to Joe and Mary for taking on the storytelling and painting sessions this afternoon and I would also like to thank our guest, Jamie, for being patient and helpful with the kids” Mrs. Graham added, earning another group applause.

“Thank ye, I hope I helped at all today but otherwise, I enjoyed today and thank ye for inviting me.” Jamie shared.

“Come join us anytime” Joe patted him on the back. “Alright, everyone, have a goodnight. See you all next week, I’ll bring Gail and Lenny along.” With that he made a way for the elevator and it was everyone’s cue to leave.

Claire approached Jamie just as he was going to her. “Well, how are you and how was it?” she asked. If she expected to spend time with Jamie, well, it didn’t happen. First, he was whisked away by Mrs. Graham. Afterwards, it was Joe asking help to build his set. Next up was Mary who got him assisting on getting and serving the food, and the rest of the time, it was kids calling out on Jamie here and there and he was more than happy to oblige.

“Fun and a little bit tiring” he replied and Claire gave a small laugh. “But in all honesty, thank ye for inviting me to come here. Made me miss my niece and nephew”

“I’m glad you had fun and I’m glad you got to see what we’re doing here.”

Jamie might be overthinking things but he knew that Claire sharing this part of her to him seems like a big thing and he intends to cherish that.

“Anyway, I’d like to offer to drive ye home...or to the nearest bus stop” he added, panicking he put her in a tight spot.

Claire paused, eyed him jokingly, intentionally making him more flush and nervous.

“I’d take that offer but” she began and Jamie swallowed the lump on his throat, “I actually live nearby so we don’t need to drive”

“Okay,” Jamie sighed in relief which Claire found very cute. “Lead the way, then”

#outlander #outlander fanfic #outlander fanfiction #SITR #something in the rain #fanfic #fanfiction #jamie fraser #claire fraser #jamie x claire #AU #light AU #fun AU #mia writes #TB writes #feel free to drop your comments and suggestions #would love to hear from you guys

[cilldaracailin]

Killer Queen

Good evening my Tumblr lovelys!

I am back (On this Sunday evening - boo Sunday evenings...) with the next part of this story!

Hope you all enjoy!

Suze xxx

P.S I completely forgot to add a little note: Draíocht is Dree-ocht (Dree rhymes with tree)

5

“The more you focus on fun, the more fun you have.”

It was a wonderful cosy sleep and when Robyn woke the next morning, her own comfy pillow was under head and Taron was nowhere to be seen in the tent but she noticed that the fairy lights had been plugged out. She groaned a little as she stretched and glancing to her watch groaned even more when she saw it only near seven in the morning.

“Bloody body clock.” She moaned, her body naturally waking up as it was used to as if it was a work day.

She got to her feet, wondering where Taron was and found him sitting at the breakfast bar wearing his glasses as he sat looking at his phone, a cup in front of him.

“Hey you should be sleeping.”

“So, should you.” He answered her back.

“My body knows it is Friday and thinks I should be getting ready for work.”

“Well mine still thinks I am in New York.” He explained as she sat beside him on a stool. “Just checking out my schedule. Lyndsey emailed me some changes. I am going to be busier than I thought. A few extra photoshoots have been thrown in as well as some very early morning TV shows and a one-day trip to Australia too.” He saw the concern on Robyn’s face. “Normally the way it is. We really try to cram as much promotion in for the film as possible which is always good for the film in the long run. We want it to be successful, we need to promote it.”

“So, you now have Australia too?”

“Yep so Asia first, then a quick twenty-four hours to Australia, then the US and then back to Europe. Hey when are you in France?”

“Weekend of the twentieth of April.” Answered Robyn.

“And in Paris?”

“Yep.”

“Me too.”

Robyn who was twirling on the stool a little stopped to look at him. “Really?”

“Yeah. We have a day of interviews but if my evening is free and I can, you want to have dinner together, if you are free too.”

“I think my conference is done by six so if we can, yes I would love to meet up.”

“If I can though it will probably have to be in my hotel room with room service though.”

“I am perfectly ok with that.”

“I would love it if it can happen.” Said Taron as he took his glasses off and rubbed his eyes. “It would mean I would get to see you in two weeks and then the premier would be only four days later so we would see each other again.”

“I am definitely good with that plan if it can happen.”

“I probably won’t know until the day of though so it would be a last-minute thing.”

“I will be around Taron. Emma and I haven’t really made any plans once the conference is done. I have been to Paris before. Emma said something about going to see the Eiffel Tower but I would rather see you if I could.”

“And abandon Emma?”

“She is a big girl. She can take care of herself.”

Taron chuckled. “Ok well let’s see what happens and you should go back into the tent and get some sleep.”

“I am past the point of going back to sleep. You need to sleep more than me. You were supposed to be getting your cosy duvet sleep this weekend.”

“I will do that tonight. I will probably sleep the night through.”

“You didn’t sleep last night?”

“On and off. Just my body adjusting to being back on its normal time zone.” Robyn looked a little sad. “Don’t give me that look chicken.”

“I don’t mean too. It’s just my face.”

“That looks incredibly sad and worried.”

“Ok so let me change the subject then. What would you like to do today?”

Taron shrugged. “I don’t mind.”

“Well seeing as how sleeping is out, you up for a little adventure?”

“Shouldn’t you be resting for tonight?”

“I will be grand and now don’t you start with the looks. If I was in work, I would be run off my feet and talking constantly. At least we can do something together instead.”

“What is your adventure idea?”

“Would you like to go to the beach?”

“The beach?” He asked perking up a little. “Thought you lived miles away from the beach.”

“I do. It’s about an hour away but we are already up and I could show you the beach I went to as a kid. Not all of us have the luxury of living right beside the ocean. We could go for a walk along the ocean and they have some inside amusements we could have a go at. Maybe I could win another cwtch.”

Taron placed his hand over Robyn’s mouth. “Don’t let cwtch hear you say that.” He said seriously. “He will be devastated!”

Robyn grinned under his palm and gently moved his hand from her mouth. “Ok well maybe I could win a different stuffed plush to live in my drawer under my bed.”

“I don’t want you to be late back for your prep time for tonight.”

“Taron, it is just after seven in the morning. I think I am good for a few hours. We can get changed, in the car and be at the beach by nine. We should be back here by one, two at the latest and that is plenty of time for me to get down to the hall.”

Taron grinned. “Well if it doesn’t clash with your performance, then I would love to do that.”

“Great.”

By seven forty-five Taron and Robyn were in her car, on their way to the beach. They had dressed down and cosy, both choosing to put on some tracksuit bottoms and a hoodie, Robyn adding a raincoat to her outfit choice, Taron his trusty baseball cap. Normally Robyn would take Peral, her dog with her but on this occasion with their plan to hit the arcades, she left the dog in her childhood home, promising herself she would make it up to the dog with a walk once she was finished with her shows.

Robyn parked down a little lane that led straight onto the beach and when Taron questioned her choice of parking spot, she explained it was free and much quieter than trying to park in the town, even though it was very early in the morning. Just before nine, they were on the sand, walking near the ocean, Robyn filling Taron in on some stories from her childhood of spending time on the beach.

“I really wouldn’t have thought your mam would do something like that.” Taron laughed.

“She comes across as quiet but has her moments and sticking toilet roll out the car window while singing Sweet Caroline really loudly was just one. That was a good day at the beach. We had a good laugh with my cousins.”

“This is a long beach with proper sand.”

“I love the beach in Aber Taron. I told you I love any beach.”

“Aber doesn’t have sand though.”

“Doesn’t matter. Sands gets everywhere and in places it shouldn’t and I ate a lot of sand sandwiches as a kid on this beach.”

Taron chuckled. “Well I didn’t have that issue as a kid.”

“I loved coming here. It was like a proper holiday even though it was just for a day.”

“Bet the ocean was freezing though.”

Robyn quickly started to sideways walk away from Taron and the water. “And we are not going to find out how cold it is today.”

Taron followed her up the shore. “There will be no swimming today, promise.” He grabbed her hand to stop her from walking further away from him. “I promise. This is just a nice walk.”

“And get some fresh ocean air.”

He nodded. “And win some new dinosaur plushes.”

“We can try.”

“I am counting on your claw machine skills chicken.”

“Oh dear we are going to win nothing!”

Where Robyn had parked, gave them a good forty-five-minute stroll towards the more popular part of the beach and the small town called Bettystown and even with the early time of the morning, there was a good few people on the beach taking advantage of the early morning sunshine. They stuck to themselves and chit chatted as they walked mostly about Taron’s upcoming tour and crazy schedule and Robyn’s two show day on Saturday, both avoiding the subject of Taron’s flight back to London before her matinee show.

“Sorry excuse me, could I get a picture?”

Robyn and Taron stopped walking and looked to the young girl who had stepped in front of them, holding her phone in her hands, wearing a bright pink raincoat.

“I am such a fan of your work Taron.”

“Yeah sure of course.” At first Taron was completely taken back that he had been recognised and recognised on a beach in Ireland very early in the morning but being the gracious man that he was and once he pulled himself from his shock of being noticed for the first time since he had been coming to see Robyn in Ireland, stepped over to the young girl. “You mind Robyn?”

Robyn shook her head and took the phone from the girl after she had turned the camera on stood back to take the picture, Taron giving a wonderful smile as he stood beside the girl with his arm around her shoulders. Robyn snapped two pictures and handed the phone back to the girl who was grinning widely.

“Thank you so much Taron. I love Eggsy so much. I can’t wait to see the new Kingsman movie.”

Taron smiled a little. “Thank you. I think you will enjoy it.”

“And Robyn…” The girl turned to face the older woman. “Thanks for giving Taron CPR. I am glad you were there to help him.”

Robyn nodded. “Me too.”

“Well I had better go. Thanks for taking the picture with me.”

“No problem.”

“Have a nice day.” She said as she turned to walk away and her walk turned to a run and Robyn and Taron heard the slight squeals as the young girl met her friends at the sand dunes. Robyn watched as the young girls huddled together and could still hear the excited shouts that carried on the slight ocean breeze towards her. It was the first time Robyn had experienced a fan meet outside of an event with Taron and for it to be on a quiet beach in Ireland of all places as they strolled together. Thankfully the young girl was very respectful and nice and Taron was a gentleman as always, taking the picture and having a small conversation with the fan.

“So that was a surprise.” Robyn turned to look at Taron but he wasn’t beside her and further near the ocean then he had been. She took to a little jog to stand behind him and saw him taking a photo of the ocean and blue sky with hazy clouds in the background. She looked over his shoulder and realised he was taking a photo for his Instagram, typing a quick little comment to go with the photo. ‘Taking in the peace and quiet of the ocean and the beach in Ireland before the whirlwind of promotion starts for Kingsman’. Robyn read the words to herself and moved to stand in front of him. “What are you doing?”

“That photo that was just taken of me will be all over the internet in the next hour.” He watched Robyn’s face turn confused. “That girl will post it on her social media and it will be taken and spread over Twitter and Facebook and Tumblr and everyone will know I am here so in order to get there first; I am going to post a photo of the beach.”

“I am so confused Taron.”

He pressed post on his Instagram and turned his attention to Robyn. “It’s a little publicity hack. Obviously, no one knows I am in Ireland except my family and friends so by posting the picture first and making it known I am here in Ireland, it takes the suspicion as to why I am keeping it quiet from the media away. Everyone knows you are Irish so they will know from the picture that I posted that I am in Ireland with you and I would rather I was the one to share that information first before a fan does.”

“And here comes another can of worms before your tour.”

Taron sighed. “Sure, it’s not ideal but I wouldn’t change my coming here for anything. We were bound to be spotted in Ireland together at some point and I would rather it be with a fan than by a reporter.” Taron could read a little bit of worry in her eyes. “Kilcreen is still a really safe place for me Robyn. There aren’t going to be a load of reporters there waiting for when we go back to yours. We are not going to have a flock of people following us. There are many beaches here in Ireland and I made it so vague in the photo. No one will now where we are.”

“But they know where I live.”

“Only a handful and you have told me so many times that Irish people don’t care for celebrities and to honest I am not really a celebrity.”

“I have been to a red carpet event with you Taron. I think you might just be a celebrity.”

Taron chuckled. “Ok well maybe a little one but it is not how I see myself and I don’t want you to start worrying ok? I just posted the photo as a precaution. I don’t mind that people know I am in Ireland. They have seen us together so many times already and they have seen us in Aber and they need to get used to seeing us together. Everyone had been so accepting of us Robyn.” Taron stepped over and pulled her in a for a hug. “I know it is hard for you to understand but it’s the best way to deal with it. I have done it before and it’s what Lyndsey has asked me to do in these circumstances. Everything will be ok. Now please stop fretting over it and let’s enjoy our walk, our future plush dinosaur win and your show this evening.” Taron kissed her temple. “It was bound to happen at some point Robyn and she was actually really sweet. Most people don’t use their manners when they meet me, just shoving their phone in my face.” He was glad to feel her laugh a little against him. “We will be ok Robyn. I will give Lyndsey a call later if she doesn’t get to me first.” Taron gave her a squeeze. “Right show me the way to these claw machines.”

Robyn was so thankful for Taron’s calming words and hug and nodded against his chest. She trusted him and his experience with the media. “Let’s walk a bit more down the beach first and take another road out to the town.”

“Keeping away from the fans?”

“No just want to show you more of the beach.”

Taron didn’t reply knowing she was lying through her teeth and accepted her hand in his and let her lead him a little down the beach before he fell in step with her, linking his fingers through hers. He kept his conversation light, glad to hear the cheery tone return to her voice as she returned the conversation and he followed her off the beach through a road further down the beach from where they had met the girl.

“I haven’t been to these amusements since I was a kid Taron so I don’t even know what they have here. I normally just come to walk the beach.”

“Let’s just have walk around and see what we can see.”

The first place they walked into was a casino which they quickly left and made their way into the next building which was exactly what they were looking for, lots of arcade games and claw machines.

“Oh yes air hockey.” Taron cried excitedly. “You game?”

“You even need to ask me?” Robyn returned. “Let me get us some change.”

Once her pockets were full of euro coins, Taron’s too, the two settled in for an air hockey tournament, their previous worries about fans and the media forgotten as the first two games ended in a win each and there was a fierce battle for the title of air hockey champion.

“Yes!” Yelled Taron as he got the last goal in and dropping his air hockey striker down, did a little victory dance, Robyn laughing at him as he twirled in a little circle. “Oh yeah, I won! Oh yeah, I won!” He sang moving his feet and arms round and round.

“You’re a tosspot.” Chuckled Robyn as she came to stand beside him.

“And I won.”

“And I still have ultimate bragging rights rocketman.” Robyn threw his way as she walked away from him and headed for the claw machines.

Taron stopped mid dance and frowned a little. “But I won.” He repeated and followed her footsteps towards the many claw machines and as Robyn went to the right, he went to the left and had a look in the glass machines. The arcade was quiet, only an odd person milling around and he was glad that their meet with the fan had mostly been pushed to the side but he knew Robyn was still over thinking it. Taron was used to meeting random people who wanted his picture and he would never say no but if he was being honest with himself, he was a bit miffed that he had been caught in Ireland as it had really been his safe haven but he wasn’t going to think too much into it until the time came to do so. Right now, he had more important things to think about, like the rest of his day with Robyn and a chance to watch RENT again that evening and have another wonderful sleep over in the tent. He didn’t sleep much the previous night, his jet lag really setting in and no matter how hard he tried, sleep just wouldn’t come to him so he settled for watching Robyn sleep instead, making lazy circles on her waist, smiling like an idiot as she cuddled even more into him as she slept. It was one of his favourite feelings in the world, Robyn laying against him as he soaked up her warmth. Taron loved nothing more than a good cuddle and his cuddles with Robyn were becoming his favourite.

He stopped suddenly as he looked in the largest glass claw machine, his eyes opening wide. “Robyn!” He turned around quickly and saw her at the opposite end of the claw machines. He motioned to her quickly with his hand and he was glad to see her jogging over.

“What’s up?”

“Look!” He said excitedly pointing in the glass. “Look what’s in there!”

Robyn followed the direction in which his finger was pointing and her eyes opened just as wide as his did. “Oh my God!”

In the middle of all the large various plushes inside the machine was a green dinosaur that looked exactly like cwtch and the other two dinosaurs that Robyn had got for Mari and Rosie. The green dinosaur was staring at them with a big smile on its face, its fur sparkling in the lights.

“It’s cwtch!”

“No, it’s a green cwtch.” Corrected Taron. “Cwtch is in the tent in your house.”

Robyn bumped into Taron and knocked him off balance a little. “It’s still a cwtch.” She said again.

“And it is coming home with us. I am not leaving that there.” Taron’s voice was firm. “It is part of the dinosaur family and is coming with us.” Taron pulled some euros from his pocket and slotted them into the hole for the money and the claw machine sprung to life with a little song. He moved the controls so the claw was over the green dinosaur’s head and once happy, he pushed the button to make the claw go down, waiting with baited breath as the claw closed over its head.

“It’s got it! I got it!” Taron said as the claw dragged the dinosaur up.

“No it hasn’t.” Robyn said back to him, making Taron stop and stare at her with a cross frown.

“Robyn.” He scolded her but as he looked to the machine, the dinosaur fell from the claw and now lay on its side. “How did you know?”

“I just did. These machines make you think you can win easily like that but it’s not the case.”

Taron put another two euro into the slot. “I am winning this dinosaur.”

Another sixteen euro later and Taron was frustrated beyond belief. “Oh, come on!” He half shouted at the machine, his cheeks a little red with annoyance as once again the dinosaur fell down. He had moved it a little closer to the winning prize shoot but had yet to win it. “Robyn I want this dinosaur.” He turned to her as she leaned against the machine. “We need a green one for our dinosaur family. It belongs with cwtch, grá and croí and I am not leaving this one behind. Maybe I can offer to pay for it.”

“I don’t think it works like that Taron.”

“But I want it!” He whined. “I can’t leave it behind.”

Robyn smiled at him. “Want me to try?” She asked him.

“Give me one more go.” He moved his hat on his head up a little and with pure determination on his face, popped four more euros into the money slot giving him two more chances to win. He aimed the claw over the dinosaur’s head once more and groaned as it fell as soon as the claw lifted it up. “Stupid fucking jingle.” He spat at the machine. With a little bit more force than was probably necessary, Taron pushed the controls forward and moved the claw back and then to the right, positioning it right over the dinosaur’s head again.

“Taron…”

“I got it.”

“Taron, I think you should put the claw…”

“I can do it chicken.”

Robyn closed her mouth and let him drop the claw once more over the dinosaur’s head and waited for the plush to fall and it did, Taron cursing as it dropped again. She wanted to laugh so badly as she took in his face but felt a bit sorry for him too. She could see how much winning the dinosaur meant to him and knew he was ready to go and offer as much as he wanted to the owner of the arcade to get the plush from the machine.

“Can I give you a little tip?” She said to him moving to stand right beside him.

“Sure.” He said, feeling her slip a calming hand into his, very much appreciating the gesture.

“Don’t go for his head. It is way too heavy. It will always fall out of the claw. Try and get the claw over his body and head so the weight is evenly distributed.”

“I am down to my last two euro.” He said as he showed her the remainder of the twenty euro note he had changed into coins.

“It will be all you need.”

Taron looked to her with a doubtful face.

“Trust me rocketman.” Robyn slipped her hand from his and moved to stand behind him a little, standing on her toes so she could rest her head on his left shoulder, her hands on his waist. “You are bringing this dinosaur home.”

“Ok.” Pulling some air into his lungs, Taron put the last of his money into the machine, hating the music as it played again but he ignored it and following Robyn’s advice, moved the claw to it was positioned over the head and side of the plush.

“Move it forward a teeny bit.” Robyn whispered into his ear.

“This ok?” Taron asked her.

“Looks perfect.”

With a slightly shaky hand, Taron pushed the button to lower the claw and he watched as once more the silver claw lowered over the plush and almost stabbed the dinosaur over his head and side and lifted it up into the air. His mouth dropped a little as the claw clung to the dinosaur, one of the arms of the claw right around the dinosaurs neck and although it wobbled as it moved across the top of the machine, it looked stable and steady and for once like it wasn’t going to fall. He could feel Robyn’s hands tightening on his waist as the claw moved closer to the prize shoot and as quick as it opened to pick up the plush, it dropped it over the prize shoot, the dinosaur falling into the large mirrored hole, the machine playing a different tune, the lights flashing to announce a win.

Taron spun around to face Robyn, her hands still on his waist and his eyes were bright with excitement and glee.

“You absolute genius!” He cried wrapping his arms around her waist, hugging her really tight, lifting her in the air a little, Robyn laughing as she spun her around in a quick circle. “The dinosaur is ours!”

“You would want to take him out of the prize shoot before someone else gets him.” Replied Robyn with a wink.

With urgency in his movements, Taron bent down and with a little trouble as he was in such a rush, finally got the large green dinosaur plush out and in his hands. He looked to Robyn who was smiling at him and he had a sudden thought. “You were trying to tell me do to that earlier weren’t you? To move the claw.”

Robyn chuckled. “I did try but…”

“… I wasn’t listening.”

“It’s a tough lesson to learn.” She replied. “But he is ours. Can I?”

“Of course.”

Taron handed the plush over and Robyn couldn’t quite believe she held a green cwtch in her hands. Everything was the same as the other three dinosaurs except the colour. “Do you think cwtch will be jealous when we arrive home with another one?”

Taron ignored how his stomach dropped as Robyn used the word ‘home’. “I don’t think so. He will be happy to have a new friend. You are not going to put this one in the drawer under your bed, are you?” He took the dinosaur back from her.

“Nope. He can stay with cwtch.”

“He’s a she.” Said Taron steadfastly.

“Sorry?”

“This dinosaur is a girl, not a boy.”

“And you have determined that how?” Asked Robyn as she watched him smooth the dinosaur’s fur down.

“Grá and croí represent my sisters, cwtch is me and this one, well this one is you and it’s green.”

“It’s green?” Asked Robyn.

“Green for Ireland, green for St Patrick’s Day and green for Robyn.”

Robyn grinned and went to stand beside him and looked at the dinosaur. She reached out to rub the it’s fur. “Draíocht.” She said as she ran her finger up and down the plushes head.

“Ok Robyn you are saying things I don’t understand again.”

She turned to look at him. “Draíocht. It’s the Irish for magic. It is this dinosaurs name. This girl dinosaurs name.”

Taron looked to the plush and titled his head. “Draíocht?” He repeated hoping he got the pronunciation right and when Robyn nodded, he said it again. “Draíocht. Magic.” His half smile turned to a full grin. “It’s perfect.” Taron looked to Robyn. “Perfect.”

After a few more tries at the claw machines, even Robyn failing now, they decided to end their time at the arcade and made their way back towards the beach. It was coming up towards twelve and they still had to walk back to the car and drive back to Kilcreen, making sure they were back in time for Robyn to get ready for her performance.

Taron insisted on carrying the dinosaur the whole way back to the car and as he held the dinosaur in one arm, held Robyn’s hand in his other and it was another chatty walk, filled with laughter and giggles, stories and tales and when they made it back to the car, both were feeling happy and content with their morning at the beach.

“Taron you really don’t have to do that.” Robyn watched from the driver’s seat as Taron seat belted the dinosaur into the back seat. “She is not going anywhere.”

“Can’t take too many chances chicken.” Answered Taron as he sat the dinosaur up straight before he closed the door and sat in beside her in the front of the car. “What?” He asked as he put his own seatbelt on as Robyn still stared at him.

She didn’t answer him, but started the car and did a quick U-turn and had them back on the road and heading to Kilcreen. As she drove, Taron checked in Instagram, glancing over the comments.

“Ok so what’s the damage?” Robyn asked him.

“Nothing too bad. A few mentions of your name. Most commenting on the beach.”

“Any sign of the photo yet?”

“I will leave that to Lyndsey. I will give her a call when you have headed off to get ready. Don’t worry Robyn.”

“I’m not Taron. I trust you and Lyndsey and I leave it in your very capable hands.”

The two walked back into Robyn’s home just after two and went straight into the tent for a lay down, Taron bringing the new dinosaur with him.

“Now don’t think we are side lining you because we are not but cwtch I would like you to meet draíocht.” He sat the green dinosaur in front of the blue one and while he made sure they sat up straight, Robyn took a photo of him doing so.

“I know what you are doing.” He said.

“I just need some evidence of how you have lost the plot a little Taron, that’s all.”

“Must be all that sea air.” He said, pulling his baseball cap from his head and throwing it on the couch, moved to sit beside her as she leaned against the couch. “I had a really great time at the beach. Thanks Robyn.”

“Me too. I don’t get to go there very often and I was happy to get to show you somewhere else apart from Kilcreen.” She lifted her arm and slung it around his shoulders, glad that he leaned into her as she hoped he would, moving his body a little so he could be more comfortable. “Thanks for my tent.”

“You have already thanked me for the tent.” Taron closed his eyes as Robyn started to gently scratch his head.

“Ok well thanks for giving cwtch a new friend.”

“You are mostly responsible for that.” He leaned a little more into her as her fingers deliciously grazed his scalp. Even with his hair much shorter, the sensation of Robyn’s fingers scratching his head was still as perfect as always.

“Ok well thank you for coming a day early to come and see me. I am so glad to have had this time with you and to give you an easy-going day before you get run off your feet.”

“No problem Robyn.” He chuckled. “Hair.” Robyn had taken her hand from his head when he gave his answer and he missed her soothing motions immediately.

“What hair?” She retorted but replaced her hand onto the crown of his head. “Doesn’t your head get cold?”

“That’s why I have my hats.”

Robyn rolled her eyes but continued to run her fingers over his head, hearing that wonderfully happy sigh she loved to hear from him. It had been so far what she hoped was a perfect care free day of respite for him before got so busy he didn’t know if he was coming or going. Robyn knew Taron was used to the promotion and he had a wonderful team helping him and looking after him but when she had first met Taron, she was the one doing that for him and it was just in her nature to look after people, especially those she loved and adored with all of her heart, even more so those who turned up out of the blue and gave her wonderful presents and surprises and she was learning that not all men were tosspots like Keith and some were worth every cuddle, hug and kiss. Men like Taron who snuggled a little deeper into her, his head resting just under her chin. It was harder to reach his head with his new position, so she kissed his head instead and hugged him and as always enjoyed the warmth and heat that came from him.

#Taron Egerton #Taron Egerton Fanfiction #Taron Egerton Fanfic #Taron Fanfic #Love #Friendship #Adventures #Arcade #Cuddles #Social Media #The Beach #Walks #Claw Machines #Dinosaurs #Excitment #Robyn and Taron

[nuggets-and-french-fries]

Sunsets & Whiskey Kisses: Chapter Fifty.

Note: If you have any questions about Canadian/American lingo in this chapter or if you’re wondering how something works, just leave me a question either in the comments or through my inbox and I’ll do my best to answer them.

please also note that this is going back on another hiatus while I get my other works updated and then when I’m back on track, I will be updating this and Taking Chances.

I really hope that you enjoy this. Sorry if it’s not the greatest. Today hasn’t been the best creativity wise for me today so please know that I tried my best.

===

It had been a few days since Ryleigh had found out that her father had been alive all this time and she still felt extremely betrayed. The woman found it hard to even get out of bed because she felt so exhausted and like life had been knocked out of her.

“Hi mama.” Anna said as she climbed up on her parents bed.

“Hi baby.” Ryleigh replied as she opened her arms for the toddler to crawl into. Anna cuddled up to her mother and started lazily playing with Ryleigh’s hair.

“You kay?” Anna asked quietly.

“Mama’s just tired, baby. I’ll be ok.” Ryleigh replied, kissing her daughter softly before pulling the tot in closer to her body.

“Love mama.” Anna said before a big yawn escaped her lips.

“I love you too, my sweet girl.” The mother replied.

Both girls fell asleep, completely unaware that Jack was awake and had heard what was being said and saw what was happening.

The father slowly and carefully got up to relieve himself.

When he was done, Parker was wide awake but seemed to know her mother needed sleep, so she just laid there and looked around.

“Hi pretty girl. Did you have a good sleep?” Jack asked after walking over to the bassinet to pick his daughter up.

Parker gave her father what looked like a smile and slightly cooed at him.

“Let’s go get some coffee and milk.” He said as he situated the little girl in his arms.

=

Meanwhile, George and Grace had decided to go and have breakfast at the burger place for something different.

“How are you feeling?” George asked, putting his own feelings aside for his girlfriend. 

“I’m fine but if I’m honest, I’m surprised that you’re still talking to me.” Grace replied sadly.

George nodded and sighed.

“I’m surprised I am as well.” He admitted truthfully.

“So, what now?” The expectant woman asked.

“I really want to know why you kept it from us. From me.” He said.

Grace swallowed and tried not to cry. She knew that she had made an enormous mistake and now she realized that she should have said something a long time ago. George saw her shoulders slump and rested his hand on Grace’s.

“Tell you what, why don’t I cook a nice dinner tonight and we can talk through everything. Maybe think of a way to make it up to Ryleigh.” He suggested.

“I don’t deserve you at all.” Grace answered. George offered the woman a warm smile before taking a drink of his coffee.

=

A few hours later, Ryleigh was going through some photos that she had.

“Both girls have gone down for their naps.” Jack said as he walked downstairs.

“Thank you baby.” Ryleigh said, not looking up from the picture she was looking at.

“What are you doing?” Jack wondered as he walked over to where his wife was currently sitting.

“I’m um, going through some things to take to George since he’s missed out on so much.” She responded, shocking her husband.

“When are you going to take them to him because I can go with you if you’d like me to.” He offered, making Ryleigh smile.

“Before I answer that, I just want you to know that I’m so grateful for you. I know I’ve been a bit of a bitch lately and that you’ve been mom and dad to the girls. It’s meant a lot to me.” Ryleigh said. Jack smiled and went around to where she was.

“Give me a hug.” He said as he held his hand out for her. Ryleigh smirked and stood up.

“I love you so much Jacks.” The woman whispered. Instead of answering her, Jack leaned in and kissed her tenderly. Ryleigh’s arms went around his neck as he wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her in closer.

Jack was the one to break the kiss and rest his forehead against Ryleigh’s with his eyes remaining closed.

“Want me to go with you?” Jack questioned. Ryleigh smiled warmly and pecked his lips.

“I think this is something I need to do myself but thank you.” Ryleigh responded.

=

By the time that Ryleigh arrived at the burger place, the lunch rush was in full swing. She wanted to kick herself for going out at lunchtime but if she had gone any earlier, she would have chickened out.

“Can I help you honey?” A woman asked.

“I’m here to see George.” Ryleigh replied shyly. 

“What’s your name?” She asked. Ryleigh shifted in her spot.

“Just tell him that someone is here to see him and that it’s important.” Ryleigh replied. The woman nodded and walked into the kitchen in search of her boss.

While she waited, Ryleigh looked around at the interior of the building and smiled to herself. Even though she didn’t really know George’s past, she felt really proud of him for coming here and opening up a place like this. 

“Sorry to keep you wa- Ryleigh?” George questioned with slight confusion. Ryleigh smiled genuinely and shrugged.

“Do you have a minute? I wanted to give you something.” She inquired. George nodded and walked toward a now empty table.

“Ok look, I know my behaviour the past few weeks have been less than polite and I wanted to apologize for it. I did promise to try but finding out that you’re my fa- that you’re who you are, it threw me off and I felt like I had just had my dad ripped away from me again.” Ryleigh explained. George listened intently to everything she had to say.

“Anyway, I’ve been thinking about a lot of things recently and I don’t know if mom has given you anything in regards to me growing up so I thought I’d put things into a box for you to have. That way you can see me growing up, kind of.” Ryleigh continued as she pushed the box nervously toward the man in front of her.

“Thank you for this. Your mom’s been a bit, shall we say hormonal and can’t really talk without crying.” George answered. Ryleigh nodded and hung her head.

“I’ve made a mess of things haven’t I?” She asked, feeling ashamed of her actions. George shook his head and laid his hand on hers.

“No, you haven’t. Yes things have been done backwards and haven’t been pleasant but if you’re willing to, I’d love to get to know you as my daughter.” George spoke softly and tenderly. Ryleigh gave him a small smile and held his hand tighter.

“I’d like that.” She said. They stayed and talked for a few more minutes before George had to get back to work.

=

“We’ve got everything, fuck off already.” Ryleigh said as she took Katie out of her car seat. Joshua on the other hand ran straight for where Anna and Jack sat playing with the new race track Anna had been given by George and her mother.

“Alright bossy, we’re going.” Dakota teased, playfully rolling her eyes at her sister-in-law.

Chase and Dakota bid their kids goodbye before heading out for the night on their date night specially organized by Chase to show Dakota just how in love with her he still was and how proud of her he was for going through another birth, knowing how much labor and birth hurts her.

“So, you want to tell me where we are going?” Dakota asked as Chase drove down a familiar road. Chase shrugged.

“Not really because it’s a surprise.” He replied with a hint of cheek in his tone.

“You know I hate surprises.” She grumbled. Chase chuckled and continued driving.

When they pulled up to the converted barn, Dakota rolled her eyes. Chase simply got out of the truck and walked around to her side so that he could help her out.

“Right, I want you to close your eyes and keep them shut. Can you do that for me?” Chase asked with seriousness in his voice. Dakota reluctantly nodded and did as he had asked of her.

Chase led her to where he had set everything up for their special night. He had transformed part of the horse stables so that they could still be under the stars but away from the snow that blanketed the ground. Chase had even found a way to incorporate Dakota’s desire of stargazing while laying in a truck bed. 

You see, one of Carol’s friends had a son who had just converted a barn into a guest house and he was more than happy to let Chase use it for their date night. Chase knew that this was going to knock his wife’s socks off.

“Ok. Open.” He said once he had Dakota where he wanted her. Dakota opened her eyes and gasped.

“When in the fuck did you do this?” The woman questioned.

“When you took the kids Christmas shopping this afternoon. Mam’s friend has a son who recently converted this into a guest house and he was kind enough to let me organize this for us to enjoy tonight and into tomorrow.” He admitted. Dakota smiled brightly and threw her arms around his neck in a grateful hug.

“I love you so much.” She said before breaking their embrace.

“I love you too. Shall we go inside?” He asked, earning an enthusiastic nod from the woman beside him.

=

Back at Grace’s, her and George were sitting down to eat the meal he had cooked for them. Grace still felt so ashamed of herself and so bad for letting her daughter and boyfriend down.

“Don’t look so glum. It’s ok now.” George told her softly. Grace looked at him and smiled sadly.

“I know, I’m sorry. The last thing I wanted to do was hurt you both. I was just scared that if I told either of you the truth, you’d never speak to me again and I couldn’t bear that.” Grace rambled. George smiled at her adoringly.

“While we didn’t appreciate being lied to and kept apart for so long, Ryleigh and I have decided to move forward and get to know each other properly.” George explained. Grace looked at him with confusion.

“H-how?” She stuttered. 

“Ryleigh came to see me today. She had a box of things from her childhood with her. She wasn’t sure if you had shown me anything and thought that maybe I’d like to see what she looked like as she grew up.” He explained before taking a drink from his cup.

“I didn’t think she’d talk to either of us again but I’m glad that she grew the courage to see you today. I know that it must have been hard for her.” Grace replied.

“She was certainly shy but in the end, we both agreed that we’d try and put this behind us and move on. I also told her that when she’s ready to, you’d appreciate a phone call. Ryleigh agreed to it.” He spoke. Grace smiled happily this time.

“You have no idea how glad I am that you’re in my life again and that we get to do this all over again. Except we already have one child and another on the way. How insane is that.” Grace admitted giddily.

“Two kids, shit.” George teased, making Grace laugh. 

They continued to talk while they ate and by the end of their meal, both adults were extremely happy and for the first time in a while, Grace wasn’t at all upset or ashamed in herself. She knew that everything was going to be ok.

=

Heading back over to the barn conversion and things were beginning to heat up. Chase had Dakota pinned to their truck themed bed while he took his time with marking her neck and driving her body wild with sparks of erotic electricity.

“Enough with the teasing. I need you inside me already.” Dakota said breathlessly. Chase smirked against her skin before nipping at her jugular, making her body arch into him. He knew that Dakota was well and truly ready for him but with the way that she was reacting to his teasing made him want to see just how far he could push her before she’d break.

Without warning, Chase slammed into her and Dakota cried out as waves of pleasure washed over her in an almost orgamsm. Chase stilled himself as he too almost came.

“Don’t clench.” He warned softly. Dakota looked up at him and bit her lower lip as Chase began to move within her.

“Oh fuck.” Dakota moaned as Chase managed to bite her nipple.

It didn’t take long before Dakota was pleading with him to let her cum but he wouldn’t listen to her pleas. He stopped his movements and smirked down at her.

“You’re not cumming until I say that you can.” He warned. Dakota looked at him and the only thing she could think of that would make him allow her to let go was to call him sir, so that’s what she did.

Unfortunately for her, it didn’t work. Chase had previously prepared himself for the fact that she may try to get away with cumming without permission and that she had been begging, he was glad that he did prepare.

“Please baby, it’s hurting me.” Dakota whined and by the look in her eye, Chase knew that she was telling the truth.

He sped up his movements and soon enough they were screaming each other’s names at the tops of their lungs.

“Fuck me that was the best sex we’ve had in how long?” Dakota panted as she looked up through the skylight to see the stars twinkling in the night sky above them.

“Good surprise?” Chase asked, ignoring her question.

“The best.” She replied as she cuddled into him. Her head resting on his chest as she listened to the rhythmic melody of his heartbeat.

“What about the stargazing and the truck bed?” Chase asked again, knowing that Dakota would giggle at the thought.

(Yes this may be a kids bed but the idea is that this truck bed is meant for grown adults and part of the fun of staying somewhere other than your house for a date night.)

“I’m surprised that you even heard me with the fantasy. You were so wrapped up in playing with Joshua while watching that tv show. I thought I was talking to a brick wall.” Dakota admitted.

“I’ll always hear you.” He replied. Dakota looked at him through her lashes before leaning up to kiss him.

“Rest now my love, we don’t leave yet and you’ll need your strength.” The man said, both of them closing their eyes for a little rest before the second, third, fourth round. They had all night and there was no limit on what could happen within that time.

===

Tag List: @sarahegerton96​ @softeggsy​ @dogmom2014​ @jobanan23​ @hitmeonmytspot​ @cilldaracailin​ @fuseburner​ @stronglyobsessed​ @aberystwythboy​ @superthiccthighssavelives​ @hauntedflamingo​ @rocknrollmadden​ @dontblinkumightmiss​

#Sunsets&WhiskeyKisses #taronegerton #Richard Madden #dad!taron #dad!Richard #richardmaddensmut #taronegertonsmut

[allie1804-fan]

A Doorway Is Opened (Chapter 3)

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 Hannah awoke just as the dawn was breaking experiencing a few moments of disquiet as she realised she wasn’t in her own bed at home. She threw on the big fluffy robe from the bathroom and padded out to the kitchen where she came across Keanu standing in his PJs making coffee his hair sticking up at crazy angles.

He greeted her with a big smile and the offer of coffee

“I thought maybe you’d like to go out for breakfast? I’ve got granola and milk but there’s a great little bakery I know that’s still open on the way to the beach and if we need to go beyond Santa Monica to get some space, we can carry on up to Malibu. It’s hopefully early enough to be quiet and safe on the beach though”

“Sure that sounds lovely”

They showered, got dressed and headed to the garage to get one of his bikes. As Hannah had never ridden on a motorbike before, Keanu talked her through how she needed to relax and lean with him, not fight it.

“And hold on tight of course but not too tight. I still need to breathe”

“Hold on tight?” she asked with a slight twinkle in her eye

“Yes mam” he grinned, wondering, just wondering if she was flirting with him.

“I think I can manage that” she replied with a wink. (yes definitely flirting he thought, “cool”)

They set off in the direction of the beach. The experience was thrilling - the feel of his body against hers was enough to send her pulse racing and added to that the feel of the wind in her face was invigorating.

Down on the beach they were able to find a sheltered, quiet spot where they laid out a rug and enjoyed their flask of coffee and the pastries they’d bought on the way.  When they had finished eating they lay back on the rug propped up on their elbows looking out at the sea.

“So how long is it before you head back to Germany?”

“Oh just about another week. When we get there we have to quarantine for 2 weeks in the hotel and then have a closed set with everyone confined to the studio and the hotel and maybe one or 2 other venues for the whole shoot.  In some ways it won’t be that different from a normal shoot but that limitation of our freedom to come and go will take some getting used to. Poor Carrie-Anne’s gonna miss her kids that’s for sure.”

“would she normally take them along with her” Hannah asked

“I don’t know to be honest. When we were in San Francisco they visited the set but then it’s not so far away. When we acted together on the Matrix films, the kids weren’t on the scene yet. As it will be the official school holidays she probably would have brought the whole family over for a vacation but that wouldn’t work now  - not with the closed set and a closed world”

He sighed

“Originally I’d planned to stay on after the shoot and take a holiday in Europe but that will have to wait now too”

“Sounds lovely, where would you have gone?”

“Well let’s see, Paris for sure, I’ve spent quite a bit of time there, have you been?”

“ah ha, when I was a student, I did languages and I spent 9 months as a teaching assistant in France. While I was there, I went to Paris to visit a friend. I’ve got a photo of me on the top of Notre Dame. She got out her phone to show him the photo which she’d scanned and shared on Facebook when the fire happened in 2019.

“Wow look at you, you’ve hardly changed!”

Yeah, right!” she scoffed “but thanks for the charming complement” she grinned. “So where after Paris and what would you do along the way?”

“well then maybe rent a car and drive down through rural France, stopping in little ivy clad hotels on market squares where I could sit and sip a cold beer in the evening and have one of their wonderful breakfasts in the morning with strong coffee, crusty baguettes, cold cold butter and the best apricot jam. Mmmmmmmmmm”

She laughed – “sounds like my kind of trip. I like a man who enjoys his food!”

There was a pause where Keanu was thinking “there she goes again” and Hannah was thinking “did I overstep?”

Keanu filled the slightly awkward silence by carrying on with his itinerary

“so from there I’d wind up in the hills of Provence, then head down to Monaco and on to Italy – I shot a film there once, in Tuscany  and it was heaven on earth. Then I’d go to Capri to stay with my sister Kim.”

“Wow that sounds like quite the trip. Well I guess that gives you something to aim for huh? It’s been so weird and tough hasn’t it and who knows when we’ll be able to have a more normal life again. Still I’m glad we could get together face to face before you go - after this we’ll be back to e mail and face time I ….. I’m going to really miss you” she said sadly.

“Me too” again he met her eyes and held her gaze. 

She felt her pulse quicken. 

“So shall we head back to mine, we didn’t really go over the script much in the end last night did we? We should take the chance while I’m here if that’s OK or do you have other plans”

“No. no other plans, so all good with me” she said happy to spend as much time as she could in his company.

They gathered their things and made their way back to the bike. There were a few people there in the parking lot arriving for the day and one of them spotted him and let out a squeal. Hannah laughed

“uh oh fan alert!”

The woman came over and launched into profuse apologies for bothering him, but she was a huge fan and just wanted to tell him that and hope she could get a photo with him. Keanu was his ever obliging self though he said they should stand a little apart and make it quick what with the virus situation.  The woman’s friend took the shot so no one had to touch each other’s phones etc and the encounter was over in a matter of minutes.

“That was really nice of you to oblige, does that happen all the time?”

“Not all the time but most days if I go somewhere public like this, I expect it. And people are mainly nice and respectful like her so really it’s no trouble. Comes with the territory.

“Well I guess that will have made her day too”

“I don’t know about that but I try to remember that seeing someone you’ve seen 6 foot high on the silver screen in real life is kind of special even though I can’t always get my head around it being me that gets that reaction! Come on let’s get out of here before there’s another one!”

Hannah helped him pack up their stuff and then climbed aboard the bike, looking forward to holding him tight again on the ride home.

 #keanu #keanu reeves fanfic #keanu reeves fanfiction #keanu reeves imagine #fluff #romance #miscarriage #stillbirth #same age

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[isitgintimeyet]

The Ties That Bind

AO3

Previous

Thanks for reading so far.

Thanks to @mo-nighean-rouge for the beta and support. Thanks also to @happytoobservenolongerdistant @faeriesfanficblog @futurelounging for the support.

OK, angst warning -  I’m sure everybody knows what this chapter is going to be about...

Chapter 29: An Anticipated Delivery

James: Look, you gotta use Lamaze. It works. My sister-in-law used it. You don't use drugs, and it's better for the kid. Mollie: You know, the only people who say stupid things like that are men, because they're idiots!

-Look Who’s Talking

Claire woke with a start, suddenly conscious of the cold space next to her. The bedroom was still dark, the clock flashing 6:30. It had been a fitful night’s sleep for both of them. Jamie had turned to her in the night, assuming their spooning position, but with his hand wrapped around his phone, rather than its usual place gently cupping her breast.

Shivering, she slipped out of bed and quickly donned her onesie.

Downstairs, she could see Jamie sitting in the dark in the conservatory, sipping a coffee. She poured herself a mug and went to join him. Without a word, he caught her hand, bringing it to his lips as she sat next to him. She leant into him, relishing his body heat though his old hoodie.

“Everything’s going to change.” Claire said quietly.

“Aye.” Unfocused, Jamie stared out into the garden, his mind a million miles away. Then suddenly he refocused, shook his head, and spoke clearly.

“Weel, no’ everything. What willna change is ye and I, Sassenach, and the way I feel about ye. We’ll adjust, we’ll manage… it’ll still be us. Promise me ye’ll stick around?”

“I’m not going anywhere.”

“Good, because…”

The phone suddenly interrupted their conversation. Jamie pressed the speaker button and positioned it between himself and Claire, his hand trembling slightly.

“Jamie, he’s here. Arrived about thirty minutes ago.” Isobel’s voice sounded thrilled but exhausted. “Normal delivery. No complications. They’re just sorting Geneva out now, but the baby is fine. Nine pounds one. And a fine pair of lungs on him. Screaming fit to burst as soon as he emerged.”

“Ah, that’s great news. Thanks for this, Isobel. When can I come and see him?”

In the dawn light, Claire could see Jamie’s eyes: the tears shining brightly, ready to fall.

“Come at eleven, if you can. Hopefully, they can come home later this afternoon, if all goes well. See you later then, Jamie.”

Jamie turned and buried his head in Claire’s neck, his tears now falling freely. Eventually, with a huge sniff, he composed himself and pulled back slightly.

“Do ye...are ye...do ye mind…?” Jamie struggled to find the right words.

“I’m not coming to the hospital with you today.” She interrupted his struggle, saving him from having to say those words to her. Today was not the day for Claire to deal with Geneva, or, God forbid, her mother.

“I’ll have plenty of time to meet your son. Today is between you… and your son.”

And just like that, she felt a little piece of her heart break.

************

Isobel was waiting for Jamie at the maternity reception. Greeting him with a warm hug whilst managing to avoid the large hamper and flowers he carried, she beamed with happiness. “Jamie, he’s beautiful, just you wait and see. And Geneva did so well too, she really surprised me. Anyway, come and see for yourself.”

Jamie followed Isobel through the hospital corridors, just another father excitedly heading to see his child, and much less excitedly, that child’s mother.

He stood for a moment at the door of the private room Geneva was in. She was sitting on top of the bed covers, chatting animatedly to her mother. Unsurprisingly, Geneva’s face looked weary, but fully made up.

When she spotted them, Louisa Dunsany rose from her chair and made her way to Jamie and Isobel. She caught Jamie’s arm momentarily, preventing him from entering the room and spoke in a whisper.

“Geneva’s been magnificent. Look at her, I mean really look at her and think about what she’s done for you… and how you should repay her for it.” In a louder voice, she added: “Come on Isobel, let’s go and find a cup of tea that’s half decent… I don’t know what some of the staff here have been making but it certainly isn’t tea.”

Jamie barely registered the comments. His eyes were fixed on the little Perspex crib by the side of the bed. As Isobel and her mother left in search of a proper cup of tea, he rushed into the room, depositing the hamper and flowers carelessly on the table, desperate for the first glimpse of his son.

He gazed down at the baby lying asleep in the crib. He had seen newborns before, but this one was more beautiful, more perfect than any other. He reached out a finger and stroked the red down on his head, running it around the shell-like ear and on to a tiny fist, practically hidden in the sleeve of a white babygro, too big for the newborn boy. The baby let out a tiny half-cry then settled back into the regular pattern of breathing.

“I hope your hands are clean.”

Staring at his son, Jamie had forgotten the presence of Geneva.

“Aye,” he responded. “I used the hand gel on the way in. Can I hold him? Let me take a couple o’ photos first.”

Geneva nodded. Having taken multiple snaps of the baby, Jamie carefully picked him up, head nestled in one large hand, bottom in the other. He sat down as the baby lazily opened his eyes to stare at his father for a few seconds. Approval having been given, the baby yawned and resumed his nap. Jamie shifted him in his arms, bringing him close to his chest.

“Geneva, he’s beautiful. Thank ye, thank ye. I dinna ken what else tae say. God, he is just sae.. .sae… beautiful… jes’ amazin’. Can ye take a picture of us, me and him on ma phone, please? I want tae have a memory of this moment.”

Geneva obligingly took Jamie’s phone.

“How are ye feeling? I bought ye some flowers, by the way, and the hamper is a gift fer the two o’ ye,” Jamie continued.

“I’m tired and sore and achy. I don’t think I can stand upright. I’m still feeling nauseous from the pain relief. I need a long bath. My breasts are painful and I am forced to wear an industrial strength bra. But, he is lovely isn’t he? Sweet William…”

“William? Ye’ve decided on a name, without discussing it wi’ me?”

“William, it’s a family name. William Dunsany, it’s something Mummy wanted, well, we all wanted.”

“It’s a fine name, but could ye no’ have spoken tae me about it? What about middle names? I ken his surname is Dunsany, but could we mebbe include Fraser as one of his names?” Jamie tried to keep his patience and focus on what really mattered - his son, here in his arms.

“I’ve not decided yet. It depends.”

“Aye? On what?”

Geneva remained silent. Jamie, focusing only on his son, did not question the lack of response.

“Weel, we need tae decide afore we register his birth. We have three weeks tae do that, and I have tae come wi’ ye, ye ken. Then we can start tae make plans.”

“Plans, what sort of plans?”

The hopeful tone in Geneva’s voice made Jamie finally tear his eyes away from his son and look at her. She was staring intently at the two of them, father and son.

“Plans for how we share lookin’ after this bairn, when he’s a bit bigger and can stay wi’ me overnight. And how much child support I’ll give ye. We’ve been decorating a spare bedroom as a nursery for Wee Willie…”

“His name is William, not Willie.” Geneva interrupted harshly.

William began to stir, turning his face into Jamie’s chest, rooting for milk.

“Och, Lad. I’m yer Da, there’s nothing there fer ye. Let me pass ye tae yer Mam.”

Reluctantly, Jamie passed William over to Geneva as she unbuttoned her shirt. He turned his head away, for Geneva’s sake, as she guided the baby to latch on, turning back once he heard the rhythmic sucking sound.

“I’m glad ye’re tryin’ the breast feedin’.” He smiled encouragingly. “Jenny says it’s no’ always easy, mind.”

“Hmm, spare me the details from Saint Jenny, please. I’ve been told, it’s very good for helping lose the baby weight. And also, do not refer to me as ‘Mam.’ If you’re talking about me, please say Mummy.”

“I’ll try tae remember.”

Having managed to find an acceptable cup of tea, Louisa popped her head around the doorframe.

“Everything alright?” she asked her daughter, who gave a tight smile and a small head shake in response.

Louisa immediately came bustling into the room, settling herself on the bed next to Geneva. “Well, I think it’s time we started to get sorted. Doctor will be round in a minute and then we can get off home. Jamie, I expect you’ve got lots of things to think about at home too.”

Jamie recognised the tone of dismissal in her voice. Regretfully, he bent to kiss William a final time.

“Once again, Geneva, thank ye, he is the bonniest bairn I’ve ever seen. Can I come ‘round tomorrow and see him again? I’ll give ye a call first. Oh, and can we arrange a time when Da and Jenny can meet wi’ him? Mebbe bring him round to ma house, if that’s easier. I ken it’ll take a while tae adjust. Goodbye, Louisa, Isobel.”

************

Once Jamie left, Claire needed something to occupy her mind, to save her from dwelling on what was happening at the hospital.  

Wandering around the house, she searched for something to do that would engage her fully. As she washed the coffee cups, she decided that she would prepare dinner, add a couple of recipes to her somewhat meagre repertoire.  

A quick search of the internet and she found a couple of recipes that seemed simple enough- chicken cacciatore and an apple and cinnamon crumble. Grabbing her coat, she hesitated for a moment. Did this make her seem like she was somehow competing for Jamie, proving she had value as a partner? She let the thoughts cross her mind, but quickly decided not to over-analyse her actions and headed to the shops.

**********

Jamie opened the front door to be greeted by a tantalising smell of casserole, apples and cinnamon. He sniffed appreciatively, his stomach suddenly remembering that he had not yet eaten today, excitement having overridden the usual hunger pangs.

“Sassenach…” he called out as he walked into the living room.

Claire greeted him with a huge hug.

“How is he?”

Jamie disentangled himself from Claire’s arms and, grinning, delved in his pocket for his phone. He quickly flicked to the photos, first of the baby in his crib and then in his arms.

“He is the bonniest bairn ye ever saw. Christ, I tell ye, the sight of him and ma insides turned to jelly. And the little noises and snuffles he was makin’... he looked at me, he kens his Da already. And look...”

Jamie pulled a small photo out of his wallet. “See, this is me as a baby. We could be twins. His name may be Dunsany, but nae doubt he’s a Fraser.”

Claire studied the pictures. She could see the obvious look of joy on Jamie’s face as he held his son. As happy as she was for Jamie, she suddenly felt like crying. Why was she suddenly feeling so sad? Would Jamie’s love for the baby make him reconsider their relationship? And how terrible a person must she be to have these thoughts, to doubt Jamie?

“He is beautiful. And how is Geneva?” Claire tried to keep her voice level.

“Geneva is as she ever was. Havin’ a bairn has no’ improved her personality. But Isobel said she was verra good durin’ the birth, and she is tryin’ tae breastfeed William.”

“So you’ve decided on a name then?”

“Weel,” Jamie admitted. “I had no say in that. She had already decided. I’m hopin’ tae include Fraser as a middle name, but she’s no’ decided on that yet.”

“I canna wait fer ye to meet him, Sassenach…” Jamie continued. “But I havena mentioned that tae Geneva jes’ yet. I dinna ken how she’ll react. I have said that I want Da and Jenny tae meet the bairn. And ye will soon, I promise.”

Claire forced a smile. “I know. Do you want some food?”

“Aye, I havena eaten today. The food smells grand. Who made it?”

“Me,” Claire said proudly. “All by myself, from scratch. Chicken Cacciatore and apple crumble.”

Jamie drew Claire close to him, her cheek pressed against his chest, his chin resting on the top of her head. “Thank ye, Sassenach.”

“It's only dinner…”

“Nah, it’s no’ the food. Thank ye for everything… fer today, fer lettin’ me blather on about the bairn, fer yer patience, fer still bein’ here, fer lovin’ me. Today will have been difficult fer ye, I ken. And ye dinna complain..ever.”

He kissed the top of her head and squeezed her tighter. “We'll work it out, together, Claire. It'll all sort out.”

#outlander fanfic #outlander fan fiction #the ties that bind #Jamie Fraser #claire beauchamp #chapter 29

[seecourtneytravel]

October 5th and 6th, 2018 (Friday and Saturday)

Cebu, New Friends, Excursions

When I went to bed in the hostel, I just laid down and was still in my day clothes. As mentioned before, some idiot from our 8 bed dorm turned off the AC. Maybe it was too cold but I woke up burning up inside early in the morning.

After the AC was turned back on, I kind of layed in bed for a little bit. I looked up the nearest gym available. For some reason it’s so refreshing to me to go to a gym in a different place. I found they had anytime fitness around the corner and I was pretty much jumping for joy inside because I’m a member back home.

I wasn't really interested in having breakfast first so I left with just my phone and headphones. Anytime fitness was literally around the corner in the top floor of a four story plaza.

I walked in and went to the front desk. I said to the woman working, “hi, I’m an anytime fitness member in the states and don’t have my key fob, can you look me up?” She looked pretty resistant off the hop. She immediately said “sorry, we can’t look you up here. But you can pay 500 pesos for a day or 3000 pesos for the month.” I was taken aback. I told her I am already a member and paid that in the states monthly already. I said, “I’ve gone to anytime fitness in other countries and they could look me up. This is the first time I’ve ever had issue because anytime fitness happens anywhere anytime when you’re a member.” She half ass looked me up when the flag on the search box was still showing the Philippines. It said “not found.” She then asked if I had ID. I showed her my license and passport on my phone. She said it wasn’t enough. I told her to get the manager.

The manager came out and had a disappointed look on his face as he introduced himself. I told him the story and he said “Sorry, but if you don’t have a key fob you can’t come in.” I told him I wasn’t expecting to be near an anytime fitness in the Philippines. He then went back to saying that even foreigners always have their key fob when they come and asked me why I didn’t have mine.

The argument had my blood boiling. I then showed them my bank statement that I just had money withdrawn from my bank account October 1st from the company. They said it still wasn’t proof. Then I said what if I had my dad take a picture of it. The manager said he would need to see a live video. I was thinking you gotta be kidding me.

I called my dad on Facebook messenger and it was already 11pm for him. He got up and looked in my room and found my one set of car keys. I had to inform him he had to go on the hunt for my other set that had a purple key fob on it. I felt bad, I made him look in my car, in my bombed messy room, and it took him a while before he stumbled upon them on my dresser.

I showed them the live video of my dad holding up my keys in the camera. Then they said “well what’s the number on the fob.” I asked my dad and he said needed to find a magnifying glass because the numbers were so small. He hunted all around the garage and found it with some digging. I gave them the number and the 1 hour or so ordeal was done. It was principal I went through that because I’m a paying member. They finally let me workout after all that and I killed a great workout. People probably think, “you’re in the Phillipines why are you stressing over the gym.” I’ve kind of lost my gym mojo since being here. It was like I found my home when I saw their was an air conditioned, non polluted, clean gym to go to. And I had a membership!

After the gym I went back to the hostel where they had some cheap food options. After I ordered I saw Anna. Anna was one of the girls from last night that was sitting in a different group. I asked her what her and her friend Carys were doing for excursions. Anna said she would ask Carys and come back in a few minutes while I was eating.

Anna is from Scotland and Carys is from the U.K. and they just arrived to the Philippines. They are also nomads in their 20’s. Anna’s travel stories are incredible, she has has spent five years working in and out of many countries. It makes me feel like my moments of traveling in a country for a month is the equivalence of me going from NY to Canada for a week. She can actually say she had lived in places like New Zealand and Vietnam.

They came back to the table and Carys was extremely hung over after last nights shinanigans. They both arrived earlier in the day and started drinking many hours before I arrived. Anna and I encouraged Carys to maybe put something in her stomach. She ordered an oatmeal and a smoothie but was unable to touch it. She excused herself to go to the bathroom. When she came out she was all smiles and was much perkier. She was able to take in some of her lunch.

We sat at the outdoor picnic tables for what felt like hours of just talking. Once we decided on a tour I told the front desk. I excused myself from the girls so I could walk around the area we were in and maybe find a nail salon.

After walking for a while, I couldn’t find A nail salon anywhere. I did stumble upon a massage spot. For only 250 pasos, I experienced the most painful foot massage of my life.

I got a message from Carys while I was walking back that they were going to go to a cafe bookstore called “books and brews.” I replied yes and was almost back at the hostel. When I got back they were already ready and we headed out.

We made it to the bookstore through a random restaurant alley. It felt like a New York City speakeasy. I ordered the soup and sandwich with a latte. The other girls also ordered a hot latte. It was funny because we all shared that we were normally all or nothing when it came to having drinks. I typically don’t drink alcohol much at all. It doesn’t interest me to have “one or two beers.” I’d rather have coffee or water. Depending on the crowd, my surroundings, the atmosphere, and most importantly, how conversations are going- all depend if I dip into the “I’ll have a blue moon.”

I urged the ladies I had to go back because I had to use the bathroom and the toilets there didn’t have rims. It would be okay if I just had to pee, but I couldn’t squat for like 5 minutes straight for other duties. Filipinos must have quads of steal.

Also, I was supposed to meet Kevin out later. He said there was a table that Blui reserved. We left the restaurant and I started getting ready. Kevin messaged me he was on his way to pick me up. It was the first time I was in a car in the Philippines that wasn’t a taxi!

Kevin picked me up, he was dressed really well. Made me bummed out that I had a pour selection of clothes. I had to be up and ready BY 4am for the excursion the girls and I were taking. Kevin had a 7AM flight to catch to Manila. We figured it would be a short night.

We arrived to the bar Blui and his friends were supposed to be. I guess they were on Filipino time. After a few drinks, I thought I saw a recognizable face. “Is that the mayor from ABCD beach in Guiuan?” He came out of his vehicle with a woman. Kevin had no idea he would be here and we waved him over. It’s crazy that he also came from an entirely different island and to run into the same face. He also flew out of Tacloban to Cebu.

After an appetizer was ordered, Blui and his guests finally arrive after 11pm. We were all pouring sweat in our outside table while the inside was air conditioning. Everyone was content being outside, I kept having to go inside to use the bathroom but really just to catch the cool air.

Time flew, 4 mojios later it was already 230am. Kevin dropped me off at the hostel where my head literally hit the pillow and in an hours time my alarm went off at 330 to get up for the excursion.

4am whale shark tour

I actually didn’t feel as terrible as I thought. Carys and Anna got in the back of our private transport car and I sat front seat. I wanted to sleep the three and a half hours to the whale shark tour. I have a really hard time sleeping in cars naturally but our driver made it so much worse. He constantly started conversation, and as the front seat passanger I wanted to be polite and talk to him a little.

Constantly, the driver would ask..”So Mam, in your country…” over and over again. With different questions from wages to asking me if I could get him a job as a driver. He then asked me if I knew any mechanics to help get him a job. I said flat out, “I really don’t know, literally go there and apply yourself everywhere.” I had to tell him “okay I’m gonna sleep now. My eyes are closing..” he would say “okay mam you sleep now.”

As I tried to sleep I felt like the guy was intentially speeding up to slam on his breaks. By far the worst driver ever. We were all jolted around the car unnecessarily. It was very frustrating. I would doze off and it’s like he was speed, brake, and swerve at the same time causing my head to bounce off the side door. I would look up in a slight panic and it would be a straight road in front of us. I would give him an annoyed WTF look but didn’t have the balls to say anything. If he became a driver in the states he would lose his license first week. Or run a family over.

We arrive to the whale shark tour at about 8am. It was already packed and we had to wait about 45 minutes until our numbers were called. After we waited we all jumped aboard these boats that would take us maybe 30 yards from the shore line. They had 8 whale sharks they were feeding and allowed us to get out and swim with them but not touching them. It was scary and surreal At the same time. There was a time the biggest one was coming straight at me with its mouth opening and closing like some kind of jaws. I saw him through my snorkel and panicked sloth holding on to one of the balancing bamboo beams. The boat men laughed as I screamed. Turns out, I survived. It was cool because Carys had a go pro and caught some great photos.

After the whale sharks we were able to grab lunch. The girls and I sat down and ordered some food. I noticed the driver was sitting afar not eating. When the food came out I went over and invited him to join us. I scraped half of my food onto his plate which was abou 6 shrimp and a ton of seasoned noodles. He began speaking Waray to the server and she brought out pork and rice for him as well alone with an orange soda. I was a bit confused but I guess he could have managed to order his own and I lost half of my meal for nothing. He shared some rice with me.

It came time to pay for the meal. We all dug for our last dollars and worked on configuring how to pay for the drivers additional add on meals. Afterwards he got up and said “ready?” And had no intention of paying. His meal was the most expensive one to pay for so we were all taken back that he added on to the bill. There was also no thank you in return. It was just a bit awkward.

Kawasan Falls

We then headed to the waterfalls which was another 2 hour drive. The spazzing drive was turning our stomachs. As we were just arriving, Anna said “good because I think I was going to be sick.”

We arrived and it was an obvious path the the falls. We were bombarded by locals demanding money and entrance fee in which we forwarded them to our driver. Our excursion was supposed to include our entrence fee and the driver kept asking us to pay. Our driver disappeared for about 15 minutes and then arrived again with another man. The other man was eager to take our photos and was acting as a “tour guide.” The girls and I caught on that he might expect payment at the end. They all voted me to tell him that we didn’t need a tour guide. I went up to the guy and was pretty blunt. “Hey sir. We don’t need a guide we want to be alone- thanks.” He proceeded forward without responding. We didn’t see him for a bit.

We arrived to the huge heavy flowing light blue waterfalls. It was heavily commercialized with a lot of rules and a lot of areas where you had to pay money if you wanted to do anything. You had to rent a life jacket if you wanted to swim close and had to pay 300 pesos if you wanted a table. We did our own thing and refused both. The other guy returned who started to ask if we wanted our photos taken. We blatenly ignored him and took our own photos of eachother. We kept playing around with the “throw your hair back” photos. water was freezing but amazing.

Once we left we had our tour guide take us to the hostel in Oslob where whale sharks were. We tipped the driver 300 pesos for driving us back. The hostel we arrived to was very basic but beautiful. It was called Salangers hostel. It had at least 16 dorm bunk beds in the one room with us being the only people at the moment.

The first thing that caught our eye was this adorable puppy that was half Dalmatian and half lab. It was the first dog I’ve seen that was actually a pet. What is more heartbreaking is that his name was Buddy. I had a delmation and labordoodle and the labordoodle’s name was Buddy.

The hostel owner gave us a ride to downtown Oslob which was tiny and we as dinner at a pizza shop. We don’t even eat much just craved mango juice and a salad then tricycled back.

When we returned, the Canadian from the hostel 7 in Cebu city was there. He was like “hey Courtney!” I said “Sam!” It’s crazy how I kept running into the same people all around. Sam was from Vancouver Canada and was traveling alone while he is out of work. Where he has already gone is where I’m going. We were kind of on the same path but opposite. He was easy going and comfortable to be around.

Sam sat outside and picked up this cute kitten that was meowing around him. I was so surprised he did that but also happily impressed. The animals are so unpredictable here, were finally in a spot where a puppy and kitten are easy to handle and play with like your common domestic animal in the states.

Just as we were about to head to bed a guy from the Congo came in who was also traveling alone. He spoke French but lived in China. Him and Sam planned the whale sharks the next day.

I chose a bottom bunk and put my ear plugs in and eye covering on. The beds were worse than prison beds and it felt like we were upside down.