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#will finally revealing how upset he is and in that same moment giving up
chirpsythismorning · 1 year
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Me when I remember what the Cocoa Puffs featuring in S3 of Stranger Things are meant to signify:
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k1ngdom-of-thieves · 1 year
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A Twisted Wonderland request: Yuu (female) turns invisible by accident, and decides to be sneaky by giving her crushes a kiss on the cheek (they wouldn't know who kissed them till Yuu becomes visible again). My chosen boys are Deuce, Jack, Jamil, Malleus, and Leona (my actual character crushes).
Thank you!!
Thank you for sending an ask!
Deuce, Jack, Jamil, Malleus, and Leona + reader that gives them a kiss while invisible!
Deuce Spade
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This was all Ace’s fault. Instead of waiting for Professor Crewel’s instructions, he decided to “speed run” the assignment so he can go on his phone all class.
That obviously didn’t work and after a very loud bang, you were nowhere to be seen. As everyone started to look for you and as Ace was getting the scolding of his lifetime you stood there in shock as everyone kept walking past you.
Since there wasn’t much to do, you decided to make the most of your little predicament. You walked up to Deuce and waited for him to hold still.
It took a minute but you were able to catch him sitting down to look at his notes. You quickly came down and gave him a peck on the cheek. As you pressed the kiss, you opened your eyes to see a shocked Deuce looking right back at you.
“Huh, Y/N?! I’m glad you’re ok but.. did you have to do that in front of the whole class?” He liked it dw, he just knows Ace and Grim aren’t gonna let him hear the end of it.
Jack Howl
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Jack had noticed that there was someone nearby, but he wasn’t able to tell exactly where. He looked around from where he was at the gym but still couldn’t see anyone there.
As he was looking around for anyone near him, he felt something warm place itself on his cheek. It felt like… a kiss?? But that was impossible, right?
He sniffed the air and noticed that he smelt something very familiar; you. Now he knows he’s losing it, there’s no way you’d be able to pull something like that off; you can’t use magic!
He continues to stand in confusion until he heard a laugh behind him. He prepares himself to see nothing there, but is beyond surprised when it’s you he sees instead.
“H-hey! I had a feeling that was you! Give me a warning next time, ok?” His tail was wagging so he’s not that upset with you.
Jamil Viper
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Jamil had heard about something happening in one of Professor Crewel’s classes, but he didn’t think much about it. He was way to busy making sure that Kalim didn’t cause the same incident himself.
While he was packing Kalim’s things, he felt like he was being watched; which was weird because he should’ve been the only person in the Scarabia lounge. He just shrugged it off thinking that Kalim was stressing him out more than usual lately.
As he finished putting all of Kalim’s things in a bag, he felt something warm on his hand. It kinda felt like a kiss, but that couldn’t be possible. Wouldn’t it?
As he was looking around again to see if anyone was there. He honestly didn’t expect to find anything so he was scared shitless when you appeared right in front of him.
“OH SEVEN- oh, it’s just you. What made you think you could get away with that?”
Malleus Draconia
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Malleus, like Jack, noticed that there was someone near him. But he couldn’t tell exactly who; the magic level was too high to be an animal but too low to be a regular student.
Could he just have used his magic to reveal who ever it was? Yes, but that’s boring and he was very curious to see what they were planning.
As he sat in one of the lounge’s chairs he felt a fleeting warmth on his horn. Then on his temple, and finally, his cheek. Kisses? How cute. Malleus thought to himself.
When the potion wore off and it revealed that you were the one behind the random kisses, he couldn’t help but laugh. Of course you’d be the one to give him a kiss when given the power to get away with anything.
“I must commend your bravery for committing such an act. However, I’d recommend you just ask next time.”
Leona Kingscholar
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Leona knew that there was someone else in the room from the moment you walked in. He tried to ignore the fact that someone was there but that proved to be challenging when they started tripping on things that he had thrown across the floor.
When he got up to scare off whoever was there, he was caught off guard when he didn’t see anyone. Even more so when he sniffed the air around him and couldn’t find the trace of magic.
Then, Leona just sighed to himself and tried to go back to sleep. This was too much of a headache over something that probably couldn’t harm a hair on his head. He was about to fall asleep when he heard a loud WHAM on the floor, inches away from his face.
He angrily shot up and felt something soft touching the middle of his forehead. A kiss? Seriously? That’s what this was all about? He was about to use magic on whoever interrupted his nap until he saw your face looking back at his.
“I should’ve known it was you. You didn’t have to do the whole sneaking around thing, you know. One more thing, did you really trip on my pen?”
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gogobootz1 · 5 months
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The Mentor pt.3
Finnick Odair x Reader
Summary: A morning chat at the train station proves very revealing for you and Finnick.
Warnings: mention of forced prostitution and mild self-harm
part two | part four
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The marble steps you sit on are practically ice, and the cold seeps quickly through your pants. The train station is entirely empty, and you sit outside of it looking out at the city.
Knees up to your chest, you take a deep breath. The roses you clutch in your icy fingers seem to taunt you, and once you look at them, you can't pull your eyes away. A beautiful gift belying your tragic fate.
You set all but one down beside you, then start to pick at its petals. Completely transfixed, you don't even hear the sounds of someone approaching until you drop the last petal.
"What'd you land on?"
The words break your focus, and you quickly gaze up to find who interrupted you. Finnick interprets your gaze as a confused one and elaborates, "Loves you/loves you not?"
That's not why you were picking the petals, but if you had been asking the flower, it would've been about him. The thought is embarrassing, so you give a half-hearted shrug and look away.
"Well, I got these for you," he holds out a small, far more rustic bouquet. Violets. "But it seems like someone's beaten me to the punch." What a cruel metaphor. Snow blocking your chances yet again. Standing in between you and a real life with real connections. Soon enough, you won't be real. What'll be left when you run out of choices you can make for yourself?
For now, you put the roses down anyway. The breath from your melancholy laugh is visible in the crisp morning air. "Thanks," you say, holding your hand out to accept the flowers. They remind you of home. A patch of them grew out in the field behind the house you grew up in. Your fingers brush over his as you accept the bouquet.
He jolts, "You're freezing!" Dropping down next to you on the steps, he removes the violets from your grasp and rests them in the small space between you. You follow the purple flowers with your eyes as he swiftly takes your hands in his own, attempting to warm them. "Do you purposefully torture your hands?"
You don't answer, still looking at the flowers he brought you. Finnick sighs, "You take such good care of Darla. Do you even bother looking after yourself?"
"What's the point?" Your heart hurts. As much as he hates it, he doesn't have a reply to that. He often wonders the same.
"How will you hold all the flowers you're collecting if your fingers freeze off?" He tries for lighthearted, but you wince. Instantly, he frowns. While typically, your replies to him are short, bordering on rude, they're always spirited. You seemed upset before he left you at the party last night, but now you seem disheveled. Like you hadn't had a wink of sleep.
Clearly, he's caught you in one of those moments. All the victors have them, but usually in private. He's not keen to leave you, though.
"Who gave you the roses?" He ventures, suddenly getting a sickening feeling. He's not expecting a real response, necessarily, but a 'wouldn't you like to know' would ease his anxiety.
You pick up the heavily perfumed flowers, "Oh, these? A gift, I suspect. I made someone very happy last night, and I'm sure I'll be doing it more often," you say bitterly before you toss them back down. Your voice comes out small, though, like you haven't built your armor thick enough to face this yet.
"From the office of the President?" It's not even a question. He already knows. Your face reveals your surprise. "I got a similar congratulatory present when I made my first deal." While he figured out that Snow had you in a similar position, it's clear you suspected nothing of the sort when it came to him. As you look into his eyes, he hopes you're getting what he's trying to convey. That the two of you are the same. And you can finally, finally, be honest.
"It was more of a negotiation," you nod, holding his eyes. "Not my first deal."
"I figured," he says.
You laugh sourly, "Is it easy to tell that I'm a cheap whore?"
"Don't sell yourself short," he scolds, "you're a very expensive whore." He almost worries it won't go over well when you snort and launch into the freest laugh he's heard in his life. Thank God someone appreciates his humor- Mags hates these jokes. He's got plenty more of them, and will definitely use them on you now that he knows they'll land.
"Thank you for the vote of confidence," you reply, tongue-in-cheek. Finnick can tell by your genuine grin, however, that you appreciated the joke.
"You're welcome," he nods, "You know, I've considered abandoning prostitution in favor of stand-up comedy."
Somehow your grin grows wider, "Really?"
"Really," he confirms, "I just have to perfect my material before I pitch it to the big man." You nod sagely, entertaining his bit. "He might just keel over in laughter," Finnick suggests.
You lean in a bit, "Think he'll keel over dead?"
"Here's hoping!" He leans in, too, sending you a flashy smile. You laugh again and look back out at the city. An amicable silence falls between the two of you, and you enjoy it a bit before breaking it.
"I met with him before the taping to tell him our deal was off. My nana died during Darla's games, so I thought he had nothing to hold over my head anymore. Then, at the party, our escort told me that Snow wanted everyone to get to know her. And when I saw her talking to-" you cut yourself off, but he understands. Some of them are too difficult to even think about. "I marched into his house and told him I'd take on twice the clients if it meant Darla would never see one." Finnick's breath catches in his throat for a second.
"So... a reminder of my renewed imprisonment," you pick the white roses up again and wave them sarcastically.
Finnick snatches them from your hands and launches them far across the steps with a firm throw. They scatter and tumble across the white marble. The action is so unexpected that another laugh bubbles out from you.
"I think you're incredibly brave," he declares, looking you right in the eye. "You might be the only victor worthy of the title."
"No," you're quick to insist. "That's Darla. She's earned her peace."
"You haven't stopped to think that you might've too?"
You shake your head, "But I haven't. I don't think I could ever atone for what I've done- no matter how hard I try." His brows furrow, finding your words worrisome.
Catching his look, you elaborate, "Every visit to Mrs. Montgomery's classroom, the parks I design, the gardens I dedicate, my broadcast segments- they're all born of guilt!" You admit, getting choked up, "It's my way of saying sorry. Sorry for fucking your husband, even though he paid to fuck me, and I wanted to die each time he did it. Sorry for being a plague upon the Earth, here's something to make it better. Sorry for-" You only notice you'd been aggressively scratching the back of your hand when Finnick grabs your wrist. It cuts off your rambling and prevents you from hurting yourself anymore.
"Why don't you talk to someone instead of torturing yourself?" He sounds pained.
“Who would I talk to?” You shrug, swiping at a stray tear. 
“That was… supposed to be an offer,” he winces.
“Oh?" you blink at him. 
“I’m really just a call away,” he nods, awkwardly rubbing the back of his head. 
“Right,” you say, still sounding a little unsure. You blink a few times, averting your gaze and thinking it over. 
“I know you think I’m gorgeous, but I’m sure it’ll be less of an obstacle for you over the phone,” he jokes. 
You turn toward him slowly, eyes wide, “she didn’t.” 
“She did,” he smirks at you. 
You hit him firmly in the gut, and he lets out a heavy breath as he curls inward. He’s glad you’re feeling up to your usual abrasiveness. 
You’ve already moved from your spot and are heading toward the station. He stumbles up after you. 
You stop suddenly. Not that you were really going anywhere. The train for Ten won’t leave without Darla and Darla is chronically late. He nearly runs right into your back, and you see him struggle to regain his balance as you whip around. 
He’s much closer than you thought, and you have to take a small step back. “What’s your number?” 
“What?” He asks, reeling from the near-collision. 
“How am I supposed to call if I don’t have your number?” You ask, and his eyebrows raise at the question. You totally skipped the ‘yes, thank you, what a great idea,’ part he’d been hoping for. But, he’ll take what he can get. He rattles off the number in an instant. 
“Are you going to remember that?” He asks. 
You nod noncommittally, “We’ll see.” The exasperated look on his face pulls another grin from you. He doesn't fight the smile off his face when he sees yours. 
A car door slam breaks your extended eye contact. The other District Ten mentor breezes right past you and Finnick, clearly annoyed at being up so early. You know him well enough to know he’s going right back to bed on this train. 
Darla, however, looks like hell-warmed over. “What the fuck happened to you?”
“Shhhhh,” she holds a finger to her lips, the other clutching her head. Your expression drops as you take in her appearance.
“Are you hungover?!” You try to steal her dark sunglasses, but she’s too quick. 
“Whatever, Mom,” she grumbles, “hurry up and kiss your boyfriend goodbye so we can leave.” She trudges further into the station, where a train is inevitably waiting for you. Your eyes go wide in embarrassment. 
“Darla!” You yell, and she winces at the noise. 
Finnick chuckles, “What happened to moderation?” She throws him the finger, earning further laughter. 
You shake your head at her behavior, and when you turn back to Finnick you find he’s already looking at you. “What?” 
“Nothing,” he shrugs, acting innocent. “Oh wait,” he snaps and doubles back to grab the flowers he arrived with. “You almost forgot these.”  
You shake your head at him, smiling, “Can’t have that can we?” 
“Safe travels,” he nods at you, turning to go. He makes it a few paces before you call out after him. 
“Finnick,” he quickly turns at the sound of his name. When you recite his number back a surprised grin lights up his features. “The uh- the phone works both ways, you know. I’m not a bad listener.” 
“Noted,” he nods, smiling. You smile back at him, a genuine one, and it makes you look younger. A loud call of your name from a train within the station makes the both of you laugh. 
“Bye, Finnick,” you smile at him, giving a cute little wave. He returns it readily.
And he thought he was in trouble before. 
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@emerald-09
I also didn't really edit this one, but I think I like how it turned out? I'm not sure if I'll write more for this mini-universe since I have a few other Finnick ideas but we'll see
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sykostyles · 2 months
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let you love me 1.2 (final)
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wc: 15.6 k (listen, i'm sorry okay)
summary: in which y/n is a 26 year old bakery owner and she can't quite get this whole "love" thing right; settling on finding solace in being alone. One day, Jackson Cole: an egotistical, but oh so charismatic professional quarterback comes along and swears he can change her mind.. and for a while he does. nearly two years of breaking down her walls.. but they seem to argue about one thing a lot. y/n's "negativity". she swears she's not trying ro be a pessimist.. it just works out better for her if she keeps her expectations low. But what happens when she meets a handsome stranger, who wants nothing more than to see her smile? Will she push everything away again or will she finally accept the love she deserves? or ; tldr sunshine! harry x grumpy! afab reader part one, two
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a/n: here we have it, the last part of my first story! thank you all so much for the love so far. I can't tell you what it means to me. I can't wait to see what's next. I know this is super long but there was so much I wanted to include with harry and y/n. I hope you all enjoy!
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cw: this story contains suggestive and explicit language, minor descriptions of violence, and verbal abuse. please do not continue if these topics upset you!
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Never once did you think that your handsome stranger that you met nearly five months ago would still be stopping in your bakery every day. His antics lately have been amped up, he’s very determined to treat you to a night out, but you’re constantly refusing; not quite ready to let yourself be vulnerable again.
“When will you let me take you out, love?”
“When pigs fly, Harry. Doing the same as yesterday?” You say gesturing to the case.
“You wound me, but I know I’ll change your mind. Yes, same as yesterday.”
“Ya know, Harry, the last guy said the same thing, and here we are.” You say, sliding his box over for the hundredth time at this point.
“Ah, but I am indeed not the last guy.” He glances down at his phone, “Give me one moment, I need to step out for just a second.” Harry says before excusing himself out front, Though he isn’t gone long, returning holding something behind his back.
You do often find yourself daydreaming about letting yourself be happy again. It’s a feeling you crave constantly, just the desire to feel heard, feel seen, feel loved.
But, you know that in the long run, it’s better this way. You can’t get hurt if you don’t let yourself get put in that situation. Even though you’re just hurting yourself, you'll just keep pretending you’re not.
“Hopefully this will make your day go a little better,” Harry says, revealing the secret behind his back.
You stare at his hand for a moment. “How did you know?”
“Pardon?” Harry asks, his hand still extended holding the cup of coffee out to you. From your favorite coffee shop down the street. The exact way you like your coffee.
“This. How did you know?” You inquired, taking the cup from his grasp.
“A true magician never reveals his secrets, love. But Ryan just picked it up for me.”
“Har-” you start,
“I know, you say you don’t like the nickname. I’ll make a liar out of you, though. Just give it time.”
“Thank you. For the coffee” You almost whisper.
“Course, love. I’ll bring it to you every day if you’d like.”
“Oh no, I couldn't ask you to do that.” You say, waving your hands back and forth.
“Well, it's a good thing you’re not asking. I’ll see you tomorrow, Love. Have a good rest of your day.”
“Bye, Harry.” You smile to yourself after he leaves.
“And you say you’re not interested in him.” Jesse says leaning against the doorframe leading to the back room.
“I’m not. He’s just being friendly.” You say. Your nose would be growing if your name was Pinocchio, that’s for sure.
“Whatever helps you sleep at night, girl. Just give in, you never know what you might be missing out on. He seems to really like you.”
“He does.” You concur, “But so did Jackson.” You whisper, leaving him up front.
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Nearing the end of the summer, you finally decided to switch up your answer with Harry. After many conversations with Carly, Jesse, and even Mr. Henry had something to say much to your surprise, you decided maybe it wouldn’t hurt to just see where it went. You didn’t have to sign your life over to him or anything. You were just scared. Harry knew that. “Whenever you’re ready, love. Just know I'll be waiting.” Everyone knew that. They were all just waiting for you to come out of the hole you dug yourself into out of self preservation. They can’t really blame you for being weary, Harry is doing almost exactly what Jackson was doing when he was pursuing you. Although, you do have to admit it feels different this time around. Harry feels different. Harry feels.. Real.
Of course, you were still planning on making him work for it. You wouldn’t be you if you didn’t. But like Carly said, if he was deterred by your sharp tongue and witty comebacks, he wouldn’t keep pressing on like he has been. Even though you attempted to throw out the “Jackson was the same way.” excuse but she deadpanned “Not everyone is a egotistical, meathead football player that’ll do anything to get his dick wet.” You weren’t entirely sure if you should have been offended by that statement. But after she showed you all of the headlines Jackson has been in over the last six months regarding his failing love life you both had a few good laughs.
“Good morning, Love. How are you today?” Harry says, sliding the daily cup of coffee across the counter.
“Mm, it would be better if i didn’t have to get out of bed to talk to people like you, but here we are.” You say, bringing the cup to take a sip.
“Such arrows come from that pretty mouth. What will I do with you?” He says with a smirk on his stupidly handsome face.
“You could pick your flavors for the day and move on? There’s an idea.”
“Ooh, and the sass. I’m already practically in love with you, you don’t have to try so hard, love.” He says, turning to the case. “Do you still have that one with the marshmallow in the middle? Ryan really liked those ones.”
You pause, taking a look inside the case to check, “I don’t anymore, those were limited. But tell Ryan I'll make a special batch just for him.”
“I’m sure he’ll appreciate that. We’ll do the chocolate peanut butter then. Those are a close second.” He says, mirroring your words from the first day he stepped foot in your bakery. You box up the order, and make your way to the counter. He hands you his normal black credit card, but when he goes to pick up the box, you stop him.
“No. Send Ryan in here to get them” You say, pulling the box back towards you.
“I beg your pardon, love?”
“Oh, don’t beg yet. There’s plenty of time for that later..” You smirk, “I just want to properly meet Ryan without your.. Influence.”
“Anything you want.” Harry states, making his way to the door. “See you tomorrow, Love.”
You can see Harry telling Ryan what’s going on. Ryan looks ever so confused, and maybe even a little anxious as he makes his way inside.
“Hello, Ryan. It’s a pleasure to officially meet you. I’m Y/N.” You say, holding your hand out.
“The pleasure’s all mine, Miss Y/N.” He says, taking your hand in his and giving you a delicate shake. “Your creations are delicious. Stopping here is the highlight of my day, as well as Mr. Styles out there, He quite enjoys your company.”
“So I’ve noticed.” You say, picking up a marker. You pull the box towards you once more, writing a note on top before sliding it back to Ryan on the other side. “Have a great day, Ryan. See you tomorrow.”
“You as well, Miss Y/N. Enjoy the rest of your day.” He says, making a swift exit.
Staring out the shop window after him, you see him hand Harry the box. Harry’s eyes immediately take in the note you left on top.
“Pick me up after we close at 6 tonight, Mr. Styles.” You signed with your phone number at the bottom. You can see his smile from here. It’s so contagious even Ryan starts to smile. Even YOU start to smile. 
Unknown: very cheeky, love. See you tonight.
You: you shouldn't have expected anything less. See you tonight, Mr. Styles. What should I wear?
Harry: I honestly expected a little more from you. But, I accept your defeat.
Harry: And I’ll take care of everything, Love.
You: Defeat? Hold on there just a minute, mister. I haven’t lost anything.
Harry: I remember a certain “When pigs fly” phrase coming from your mouth. I told you I always get what I want. See you tonight, Love
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"Shit. What did I agree to? Should I cancel? Should I close early and hide somewhere? Well then what excuse would I have when he comes in tomorrow? I could tell him I’ve got a case of food poisoning? Or a migraine?"
Just as your thoughts begin to spiral for the umpteenth time in your downtime, the bell on the door chimes. You look up to see Carly, holding a garment bag, and Jesse standing behind her.
“Uh, what are you two doing here?” You say, confusion very evident on your face. “Jesse aren’t you supposed to be like three hours away in some lecture hall?”
“Oh sure, just question why he’s not where he’s supposed to be.” Carly says, laced with a fake offended tone.
“Bitch, did you forget I went to college with you? I know you’re prone to play hooky every now and then.”
“Okay, fair.” She laughs, “But, I received a phone call so I’m doing my end of a deal I made.”
“Same here.” Jesse says from behind her. “I’m here to take over and close up for you.”
“And I’m here to help you get ready!” Carly erupts with excitement. “I’m so excited for you.”
“Wait a second, what deal?” Now you’re even more confused.
“Ah, can’t reveal anything else. Now, upstairs you two go. I got my own date with one of these cookies and cream cupcakes as my reward for helping you get laid.” Jesse says, guiding both of you to the staircase.
“Jesse!”
“Have the best time!” He says before closing the door behind you.
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Carly refused to explain anything to you, other than she was given directions to be at your place to start helping you get ready at 4:30 pm sharp. She was just doing what she was told.
“Stop it.” She says, starting to remove the curlers from your hair.. “I know that look. You’re going to have a great time. He’s already head over heels for you. I can tell.”
“That’s what I’m scared of, Carls. I’m so scared.” You whisper. “I don’t know how to accept love anymore.”
“You accept my love. Jesse’s love. Mr. Henry’s. I know it’s different when it’s a romantic situation, but you’ve gotta have a little faith, babe.”
“You say that like it’s easy.”
“It’s not easy, but that’s what makes it worth it.”
“What if he ends up being just like Jackson?”
“Don’t you see how different he is from him already? He’s made all of this effort just today. He made sure I was out of work. He made sure Jesse was here on time, when Jesse’s supposed to be at school. He literally had an outfit picked up for you, Y/N. Jackson would never include me in a date plan, let alone plan anything with this level of thought behind it. I don’t even think he’s capable of deep thought, but that’s just my opinion.”
“Jackson never planned anything beyond a dinner reservation.” You half laughed. “See what I mean! I know you’re scared, babe, I know. It’s scary being vulnerable. It’s so scary. But it can be so rewarding. But you have to at least try. You won’t get anywhere if you don’t try.”
“But what’s so wrong with being alone?”
“Don’t even start with me right now. I love you, but I will kick your ass.” She says, totally serious.
“Okaaaay, jeez. I get it.”
“Good. Now, bring me your face.” She says, setting your makeup on the counter.
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You never thought you’d be walking out your apartment door to meet a man you face planted into in a parking lot. For a date!
You see him leaning against the building opposite yours, dressed in a more casual outfit than you’re used to seeing him in. But you swear you might just prefer this look. His outfit compliments yours; the detailed color in the sun dress he picked out for you emulates the color of his sweater. He’s got his sunglasses pushed atop his head, one hand in the pocket of his jeans, the other hand holding his phone; and a bouquet of yellow tulips tucked under his arm. He looks divine. The casual sexiness just drips off of him.
“Well hello there, stranger. I almost didn’t recognize you.” You say, causing him to look up from his screen. 
“I’m sor- woah.” He clears his throat. “You look.. Wow.”
“Well, that’s one way to put it. I guess I still got it.”
“I don’t think you could ever lose it, Love.”  He says, sauntering over to you. Grabbing the flowers from under his arm, he extends them to you, “For you, milady.” 
“Okay, seriously, which one of them told you everything about me?” You say, taking the bouquet from his grasp. “Yellow tulips have always been my favorite.”
He smiles down at you. “I would never throw your friends under the bus like that. But they all do love to talk about your interests and seem to have your best ones at heart.”
“They do. I appreciate them so much.” You say quietly. “Thank you. Let me put these inside real fast and we can go.”
“I’ll be right here, Love.” He says, kissing your hand before you walk away. You immediately felt your cheeks get warm.
You step inside the bakery and see Jesse standing at the counter with a vase of water. 
“Oh, so you knew about these too? You’re the mole, huh? Do you know everything related to tonight?” You say, setting the flowers inside the vase.
Jesse looks at you with a smile and pretends to lock his mouth and throw away the key.
“I hate you.” You say walking back to the front door. “Thank you, Jesse. For everything.”
“You know I always got you, girl. Have a great time.”
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“So, where are we going?”
“Ah, that would spoil the surprise.” Harry says, checking his mirrors before switching lanes. “But I have a feeling you’re going to enjoy what I’ve got planned.”
“Cutting me up and spreading the parts out across a fifty mile radius?”
“You’re a little morbid, you know that?” he chuckles softly
“So I’ve been told. Does that bother you?” you’re grinning at him.
“What do you think?” He smirks at you, sliding his hand over to rest on your knee.
The car comes to a stop outside a brick building. “Pottery Painting Class Tonight 8-9pm” Reads on the small marquee board.
“Okay now I know you talked to Carly.” You say excitedly as he helps you out of the car, “I’ve always wanted to do one of these!” 
“I had a feeling.” He chuckles. “We are a little early, but there's a diner I love across the street. Come,” He says, holding his hand out to you. You gladly take it and begin to walk hand in hand to your destination.
Settling into a corner booth, your waitress comes and takes your drink order before leaving you to look over the menu. She returns and you let Harry order for you since you were stuck on two options.
“So, what made you finally cave?” He inquires, a heavy smirk upon his face.
“First of all, I didn’t cave. I figured if you’re going to kill me, I might as well get a date out of it.” You quip, leaning your chin onto your hand.
“Always so quick with the comebacks.” He teases. “I don’t think I’ll have time for that this time around, but there’s always next time.” 
“You think there’s going to be a next time?” Your eyebrow raises, a smirk tugging on your lips
“Oh, I know it.” He states without even thinking about it. 
“I do have a few questions for you, though.” You say, your tone somewhat serious.
“I’ll tell you whatever you want to know.”
“Why me?”
“Why not you?”
“You don’t even know me.” You start, “Well, besides what you got out of my friends. You ran into me one day, and then just started showing up out of nowhere. Which doesn't make sense to me either. How did you find me?” Your tone started to seem kind of accusatory. You don’t even let him answer before you start again,  “Don’t get me wrong, I love the daily business, but it just seems too calculated to me. It’s been plaguing my brain since the first day you walked in my shop. So, Why me, Harry?”
“I know how weird this all seems, and I profusely apologize for making it seem like my intentions were anything other than good.” He starts, reaching his hand across the table, his way of asking for yours. You hesitantly oblige. “But I will explain everything to you from my point of view, if you’ll allow me.” He says, thumb gliding over the back of your hand. 
“Well yeah, I’m here aren’t I?” You smirk at him. “But, I’m also here because you got a stamp of approval from my entire peanut gallery. So be grateful to them.”
“I’ll be sure to send them a thank you card.” He says. “But let me start from the beginning, Love.”
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Harry had just arrived at the stadium. Head coach Johnson requested his presence to show Harry just how far their dead last draft pick Jackson Cole had been improving. Harry was less than thrilled when his decision was overruled when it came to drafting Cole, he wanted a different pick from the University of Miami, but they went with majority ruling and thus here we are.
So needless to say, Harry didn’t really want to be here right now, but he knew it wouldn’t take too much of his time. Watch the kid throw the ball a few times and gauge his performance from that. Or so he thought, 
“Are you kidding me? Star quarterback kid forgot his practice bag? His practice bag, for the championship game he should be grateful he’s even getting the chance to play in, since my first string is out with a torn ligament? Why am I here wasting my time?” Harry states, business mode turned all the way up to ten.
“I-I’m sorry, Mr. Styles. He says his girlfriend is on the way with the bag.”
“If the bag isn’t here in ten minutes, I’m leaving. And something will be done about this.” He says, pulling his phone from his pocket.
The ten minutes pass, and Harry’s irritation rises. He stands from his seat in Johnson’s office and turns to Ryan on his right, “Call for the car, we’re leaving.” Looking to Johnson sitting behind his desk, he points at him, “We’ll be looking to extinguish your contract. If you can’t get your players to remember their gear, why would I think you can get them to remember plays?”
“Mr. Styles, I plead with you to thin-” He’s cut off by the sounds of yelling in the hallway.
All three men make their way out the door to see what the commotion was all about.
“You have got to be the definition of ungrateful. For the greater part of two years I have given you everything and you still think you can talk to me like that?” Harry hears from down the hall. 
He turns and sees Cole’s back facing him, and just over his shoulder he sees a woman. A woman with tears in her eyes and shock and terror all over her face. 
“Is that your star quarterback over there, verbally abusing that woman?” Harry inquires, turning to Johnson. “I swear on your life, i will remove you from this office myself if that boy over there causes any kind of uproar in the media, Do i make myself clear?”
“Crystal, sir.” Johnson says, fear laced in his voice.
Harry turns back towards the scene unfolding before him, but the woman was gone.
“Mr. Styles, the car is up front.” Ryan pipes up from behind him.
“Right, let’s go then. Don’t make me repeat myself, Johnson.” He says before they take off.
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“Wait a second, you were there for that?” You question him. He nods, picking up a french fry.
“I was. I heard the whole thing. Right pissed me off. I wish I would have stepped in instead of threatening Johnson.” His jaw ticks.
“You don’t really seem like you could have that kind of scary demeanor.”
“I only show it to people that need to see it.” He says matter of factly. “But, you don’t get very far in business without being like that. At least sometimes. But outside of my business, I’m nothing like that. Unless you want me to be.” He smirks at you.
You blush, but a realization comes into your head, “Hold on, I completely just let this go over my head. Who are you, exactly, Harry?”
He smiles. “I was waiting for this. I’m the majority owner for the team, Love.” Your face goes pale.
Wait. Huh?? The Owner? This is the owner you embarrassed Jackson in front of?
“Jackson said I embarrassed him in front of you that day.” You say, looking down at the table.
Harry laughs, “If anybody embarrassed Jackson, it was Jackson. What grown ass man forgets his work gear? This is his job after all. And, who then verbally assaults the person who brings it to him? In front of everyone, nonetheless.”
He takes in the frown on your face, and decides to shift the direction of the conversation. “You really had no idea who I was this whole time.” He says, more of a statement than a question. 
“Was I supposed to?” You respond quietly, still not sure what to do with this information.
“No, I don’t mean it like that. I’m honestly more surprised than anything.” He says, holding his hands up like he's pre-defending himself, “And i don't mean this in any kind of derogatory way against you, but normally I have women lie, saying they don’t know me to get closer to me. But you really had no idea this whole time. It’s honestly refreshing.”
“You seem really full of yourself.” You say, taking a bite of your pancakes.
“There’s a fine line between confident and cocky, and I know how to keep myself on the right side. But, let me continue.” He says before continuing his story.
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Harry made his way out of the elevator with his band of associates behind him. Ryan was giving him the run down of his next meeting as they walked to the car.
“We have a 1:30 pm meeting with Lyons, but I can resche-” Ryan is cut off by the sound of Harry huffing.
“Woah there love, I gotcha.” It's her. It’s the woman Cole was belittling. She looks so.. sad. I should offer to do so-
“Sorry. You can let go now.” Nice one, Styles.
“My apologies, Love.”
“Don’t call me that.” She says, rolling her eyes at the man before her.
He continues to recount your first meeting exactly as you remember it. He throws in the detail of asking Ryan to look into you, wanting to be fully transparent with you.
“So you knew who I was before this? How is that fair?”
“I suppose it’s not, but I only requested your name and where you worked. I didn’t want to learn anything else before I heard it from you.”
“Say’s the guy who made a ‘deal’ with all of my friends in order to get me here today.” You chuckle.
“Okay, fair. But in my defense, how you take your coffee, what your favorite flower is, and something you’d be interested in doing for a date isn’t entirely sensitive information, Love.”
“On the contrary, Mr. Styles. I happen to take my interests and passions very seriously. These are very sensitive topics.” 
“I’ll gladly discuss any sensitive topic you’d like, Love. But perhaps we should save that for when we’re alone, no? Unless you’re into that.” He teases.
“You know, Harry, I just might have met my match with these comebacks of yours, and I don't appreciate being threatened.”
“Is that a challenge?” He says, leaning closer to you across the table.
“It’s whatever you want it to be,” you say, matching his movements.
Just as he’s about to seal the deal, his phone buzzes letting him know your class is about to start across the street.
“Ah, but I guess that will have to wait until later.” You say, standing from your seat.
Harry ran his hand along his face, covering his mouth and breathed out a laugh. “This girl.” He thinks. He takes your hand after throwing more than enough cash down on the table, and you make your way back to the brick building that will be housing your date for the evening.
Throughout the course of the rest of your date, you learn more about Harry. He’s 30. His favorite color is orange. “Wait no blue. No, orange. Orange.” He’s an Aquarius, though he swears he doesn’t understand why that’s relevant. He was born in England but moved here when he was 22 to run the US branch of his company. He has his hands and feet in all kinds of different baskets. He’s in the market of construction, publishing, restaurants, real estate; you name it. He’s worked every single day since the day he graduated and he’s turned his business into what it is today. His successful business is what made it possible to be the majority owner of the team Jackson plays for. His parents and sister are still back in England and he misses them terribly, but he travels back as often as he can to see them. Especially now that he’s an uncle! He loves all sports, but American football just really spoke to him. He says soccer is his second favorite. Or the true football according to him.
“But why did you decide to pursue me so intricately? I was so rude to you both of the first real times we spoke.” You question, sweeping your paintbrush across the teapot you chose.
He ponders for a split second, “I got fixated with how it made me feel inside to be the one to make you smile” He says without looking up from the bowl that he chose to paint. “Plus, I saw your disdain for me as a challenge. And I love a challenge.” He smirks, still not looking up at you.
You stare at him in awe, taking in how his brows furrowed together in concentration. He answered you with such an easiness in his tone. “I just don’t know how someone like you could be interested in someone like me.”
“How could I not?” He says, finally looking up at you. ”You’re so determined, and incredibly talented. You’re undoubtedly the most beautiful woman I've ever seen. But you looked so broken and exhausted when I saw you for the first time at the stadium. It broke my heart. I wanted to do everything in my power from that moment on to put a real smile back on your face. I didn’t know you then, but I wanted to. I wanted to take all the pain you were feeling away. That’s all I know.” He says, setting his brush down.
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You thoroughly enjoyed yourself tonight and you probably told Harry how much fun you had about 13 times in the time it took him to drive you home. It made his heart swell to know he’d made you so happy tonight. Harry walked you to your apartment door, before turning you to face him, his hands finding purchase on your lower back.
“I had a wonderful time with you tonight, Love,” He says, reaching up to tuck your hair behind your ear; his touch ghosting your skin, giving you goosebumps.
You roll your eyes. “You won’t ever let up with that nickname, will you?”
“Never. Not when I get this reaction out of you.” He smirks, looking down at your lips. “May i?”
You don’t even hesitate before you nod. He immediately leans down and covers your lips with his. The feeling of warmth, and desire seeps into every pore across your entire body. His kiss feels like everything you’ve ever longed for. You feel safe. You feel at home. A feeling you hadn’t felt since you were twenty years old and lost the only two people you had left you were willing to call biological family. He made you feel alive again.
“Mm, exactly how I imagined.” He says in between rushed kisses, lips moving perfectly in sync.
“You imagined this?” You say breathlessly.
“Only every second of every. fucking. day, Love.” He says after he reluctantly pulls away. “But, I need to stop myself before I get too excited. I want this to be right.”
You shake your head, “You’re just fine.” You say before cupping both of his cheeks and capturing his lips with yours once more. “This is just right.”
“As much as I want this with you right now, we shouldn’t.” He’s gripping your wrists and gently pulling them from his face. “You have no idea how bad I want this.”
“So let’s go upstairs.” You say, trying to free your arms from his grasp.
“Love, look at me.” He says, now grabbing the sides of your neck to angle your head up at him again. “I want nothing more than to take you upstairs and give you everything you deserve.” You’re nodding along with his words, a desperate smile on your face. “But I want to take my time with you. Will you let me take my time with you and do this right?” He asks, sliding his hands up and  caressing your cheeks with his thumbs.
“I guess so.” You say, voice echoing disappointment.
“Hey, none of that. I’ll take care of you soon, I promise. But for now, I want you to take your cute butt upstairs, and call your friends. I’m sure they’re all waiting to hear how much fun you had tonight. Can you do that for me?”
“Yes, Harry.” You say, rolling your eyes.
“Good girl,” He says, making your breath hitch and cheeks flush. “Now, Up you go. He says, not before pressing one last kiss to your pouty lips.
“See you tomorrow?” You say, turning towards him one last time.
“Wouldn’t miss it for the world, Love.” He waits until he hears your door close behind you before making his way back to his car. He feels his phone vibrate in the cup holder.
You: Thank you for tonight, Mr. Styles. I thoroughly enjoyed myself.
Harry: The pleasure was all mine, Love. I would enjoy doing that again with you sometime soon.
You: Whenever you want, Harry.
Harry: Ah, I did mention getting what I want, didn't I? How about this weekend? Saturday after you close? I’ll pick you up.
You: It’s a date. Goodnight, Harry.
Harry: Goodnight, Love.
Throwing yourself down on your bed you call Carly. Of course she’s answering on the first ring because she’s as nosy as the rest of us. “GIRL YOU BETTER TELL ME EVERYTHING!” She says as soon as the lines connect.
“Why else would I be calling? I have so much to tell you!” You recount the night's events to her with as much detail as you can. Although that doesn’t stop her from trying to pry for more.
“What do you mean he rejected you? I am so confused.”
“I didn’t mean it like that. He just wants to ‘take things slow and do this properly’ as he said in his fancy accent.” You tell her.
“What a gentleman.” Carly muses. “I want one.” She huffs through the phone. “Is Ryan single?”
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Saturday’s business hours come and go before you can even process them. I mean, you did close two hours early to get ready but you still didn’t think you weren’t that close to your date with Harry. 
Although, you haven’t seen Harry yet today. Ryan is the one who stopped in at lunch time. Ryan claimed it was because Harry was taking care of some business he needed to attend to before your date tonight. Harry told Ryan to make sure you didn’t worry, that you were still on for tonight and that he was sorry he couldn’t be there today. You made your way upstairs and began your getting ready process. Which included a hot shower, exfoliating, shaving every inch.. You know, the everything shower. Carly asked if you wanted her to help you again, but you declined; wanting to take your time with your self care.
Checking your phone for the hundredth time this hour, you finally get the message you’ve been waiting for.
Harry: I’m on my way, love. Can’t wait to see you.
You felt immediate goosebumps all over and butterflies in your stomach. “Oh god.” You think. “I already like him. maybe too much.” You could hear Carly scolding you now, “Bitch, knock it off. You’ve been miserable for long enough.” You think maybe she's right.
Harry’s there to pick you up at 6 pm on the dot. His black Range Rover settled behind him as he watches you make your way across the street. He reaches his hand out for you to grab once you’re close enough and he pulls you to stand between his legs, hands settling on your hips.
“Hello, Love.” He smiles down at you, eyes peering over his expensive sunglasses.
“Ello, govna. Fancy a date wiff meh?” You choke out, in your worst accent possible. He chokes on his own spit at that.
“Oh my g-, what was that?” he says, unable to hold his laughter.
“I thought I'd give your accent a shot.” You say, shrugging your shoulders.
“It’s a good thing you’re talented in other areas, love, because impressions are not your strong suit.” He says, leaning down to kiss your cheek. “Shall we go, then?” He says, nodding towards his car.
“We shall.” You let him guide you around the car and open your door for you. (Jackson would never btw) He makes his way back around before sliding into his seat and taking off.
Your second date ensues without a hitch. He took you to a record store! He perused the entire store with you for hours. You both showed each other different albums and explained what they meant to you. He showed you his favorite Pink Floyd record and you showed him your favorite band's sophomore album that had gotten you through some really dark times. He kept eye contact with you and nodded along with your words, expressing his condolences for you having to experience so much already in your life. The fact that he even remembered you mentioning you enjoy vinyl hunting had you sure of one thing, you’re certain you like this man more than you should. And you’re terrified. But in the best way.
Harry gets you home around 10 pm, and walks to your door again.
“I would like to ask you a pretty important question.” Harry states, placing the palm of his hand against your cheek. You lean into his touch and nod, letting him know to continue. “I know this is rather sudden, but I would like to start seeing you. Officially, I mean.” Maneuvering his hands to tilt your face towards him, he presses a kiss to your cheek. “Call you mine.” The other cheek. “Make you happy.” Now your forehead. “Treat you with the utmost respect, like you deserve.” He kisses your nose. “Will you let me do that, sweet girl?” He pauses, gauging your reaction. 
You nod your head like a mad woman, a massive smile on your face, “Oh god, yes!.” You say. And it feels like an entire weight has been lifted off your shoulders. You never imagined all those months ago that you’d be standing here with your handsome stranger agreeing to start a relationship with him. Who are you? What have you done with Y/N? Is Y/N even in the room with us?
Harry smiles a smile that can only be described as.. painful looking. “My sweet girl, gonna treat you so well. The way you deserve. Been waiting months for this.” He says, pressing his lips to yours. You reach your hands up, tangling them in his soft curls, and pull yourself to your tippy toes, attempting to meet his height. “Please,” You whisper against his lips before kissing him again. He leans down over you, trying to pull you as close to him as possible. “Please what, sweet girl?” He teases, “Gotta use your words for me, pretty.” He says, tilting your head back and placing featherlight kisses along your jawline, heading towards your right ear and taking your lobe into his mouth.
“Oh my god, Harry–Fuck.” You groan out. “Please, don’t make me wait again.” You plead, pulling his lips back to yours.
“Is my girl sure this is what she wants? I thought we agreed to take this slow.” He teases again.
“I changed my mind! Please, Harry. Please.” You plead, making him chuckle.
“Who am i to deny you, Love.” He says.
You clumsily make your way upstairs, the both of you too damn stubborn to attempt to break your kiss. Layers of clothing are shed as you make your way into your bedroom. He pauses one more time at the end of your bed, both of you only left in your underwear, “Are you sure about this Love? We can stop right now and it wouldn’t change anything.” You shake your head and push him down, straddling his lap. “I seem to remember a promise you made about taking me upstairs and giving me everything I deserve. I’m waiting for that promise to be kept, Mr. Styles.”
“Well then, allow me to demonstrate.” He says, flipping you both over so you were under him, eliciting a shriek of laughter from you.
1.2.1 (please mind the tags before you read!)
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A couple months have passed and it’s cold out again. Harry’s been making good on his promise to treat you well, treat you how you deserve. He still makes his daily stops to get his cupcake and drop your coffee off, and he makes sure to give you the dozens of kisses you demand before he’s allowed to leave. You feel like a different person; you would never be caught dead showing this level of affection to a partner, let alone in a semi public setting. All of your friends are so immensely proud of you, but nobody says anything lest to make you feel embarrassed. Harry claims the title of your biggest fan and your number one supporter. Although he and Carly like to “argue” over that title. You were thrilled to finally have a relationship where your boyfriend and your best friend actually got along.
When Mr. Henry stopped in the day after your first date, you feigned ignorance.
“Good morning, dear. How was your evening?” He inquires, a smirk evident on the elderly man's face.
“Eh, it was pretty boring. I tried out this new recipe for a chocolate ganache to put on a cake. Turned out pretty well. I’m kind of excited.” You say, boxing up his normal order, plus some extras as a thank you for him to find later.
“What do you mean? I thought yo-, wait a minute. You’re being a smart ass aren’t you?” He asks, brows furrowing together.
“What was your end of the deal? I already got it out of the other two. What’s your excuse, huh?” You tease him.
“You little shit. Haha, alright. You got me there. I didn’t agree to get anything in return. There isn’t anything he could give me that I need, dear. I have all I could ever need right here.” He motions to you and Rocco. “I just wanted you to have a chance to be truly happy, like I got to be. I want you to find someone to eat peanut butter cookies for after they're gone. That’s all I asked for from him in return. He said he would do his best to make me proud. And I believe him, dear.”
The tears well in your eyes before you can even process what’s happening.
“Well, now I didn't tell you that to make you cry.” Mr. Henry picks up a napkin and hands it to you, “I’ve told you before, no time for that. You’ve got cookies to sell.”
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Jesse has returned from school again for winter break. He’s been keeping tabs on you while he’s been gone though. He was so excited for you when you informed him you and Harry were officially an item. 
“Yeah, and you tried telling me you weren’t interested in him.” He says, spinning a rose nail between his fingers like you taught him.
“Ooh, see! now, twist it back and start where you left off.” You said, encouraging his progress. “Ya know, Jesse, I never claimed to be perfect.” You joke.
“I know, girl. I’m just glad you’re letting yourself be happy again. It right hurt my heart to see you so sad. Mr. Henry and I were about to start scheming together.” He picks the rose up off the nail, and sets it down where you have it marked on top of the cake.
“I think all of you did plenty of scheming, don’t you?” You say, raising your eyebrow at him.
“Okay, you got me there. But can you blame us?”
“I suppose not.” You say checking the time on your phone. “Hey, Harry asked me to make his cupcake drop at the stadium. Are you okay if I run these to him real fast? I’ll be back in no time at all.”
“Go on, girl. I got this. Go get your man.” Jesse says, starting another rose on the nail. “Still can’t believe you bagged a team owner. Badass — seriously.”
You make the drive to the stadium and you’re surprised to see the team in the parking lot doing drills. You don’t think anything of it and pull into one of Harry’s parking spots near the gate like he told you to do. Gathering your various items, you step out of your car and turn to close the door.
“What are you doing here?” You hear behind you. Jackson.
“Mm, I don’t really think that’s any of your business.” You huff before continuing on your way.
“We haven’t been together for nearly a year, I have no desire to see you here.” Jackson says, rather angrily, following hot on your trail.
“Well, it's a good thing I’m not here to see you. So if you’ll excuse me.” You make a hasty exit from the conversation and let your feet carry you to Harry’s office.
“Hello, my love.” Harry says upon your entrance. “What do you have for me today?”
You half smile at him, “Um, there’s a cookies and cream for you, and the marshmallow filled for Ryan.” You say, taking a seat in one of the chairs in front of his desk.
“Are you alright, sweetheart?” He inquires from his seat.
You nod, even though it’s a lie. He shakes his head at you. “Come here, Love.” he says motioning for you to join him on his side of the desk. He pulls you to sit in front of him on the desk, he cages you in with his arms “Now, you know I don’t like dishonesty, Love.” He starts, “What’s bothering you?”
“I hate that you can read me like a book.” you mumble, your eyes beginning to well with tears.
“Mm, Have been able to since the beginning. Are you gonna tell me what’s going on in that pretty head of yours?”
“It’s just Jackson.” You mumble, fidgeting with your hands in your lap.
“Did he say something to you?” Harry says, his tone serious now.
“No! I mean — kind of. The guys were all in the parking lot doing drills and when he saw me, he asked why i was here, I told him it was none of his business, and then he told me he didn’t want me here.”
“I hope you gave that punk an earful.” He says, running his palms over the tops of your clothed thighs..
“I told him that it was a good thing I wasn't here to see him, and to excuse me.” You said, recounting what happened.
“Good girl. That works too. I’ll deal with him. Wanted him gone a long time ago”
“No, please, just leave it be. I don’t want to give him a reason to hate me even more. He still scares me. I didn’t recognize him that night. H-he grabbed my face and told me I n-needed to be m-more obedient to him. Please don’t make it any w-worse, Harry, please,” You plead tears beginning to stream down your face.
“Woah, pretty, let's calm down, yeah?.” He coos, pulling you off of the desk and onto his lap. He rubs soothing circles on your back and guides your breathing. “It’s okay, my sweet girl. Nobody can hurt you. I’ve got you, baby. Everything will be okay.”
Harry holds you for a while longer while he continues to do some of his work at his desk. He glances down at his watch, taking in the time. “I’m sorry, Love, I’ve got a meeting in 15, I would cancel again but that would be three times in a row.” You sit up slowly before you say, “Oh, it’s alright. I’ve gotta get back to Jesse.” He tucks your hair behind your ears and kisses you softly. “Will you be alright getting back? Should I send Ryan with you?
“No, I’ll be okay. Will I see you tonight?” You inquire, standing from his hold.
“Well, of course. I expect my nightly dose of attitude when I get there, too.” He says before giving a light pinch to your ass, making you squeal. “Let me know once you’ve made it back, my love.”
“Yes, sir.” You mumble out and you swear you almost hear Harry groan.
“Keep it up, sweetheart. You might like what happens.” He wiggles his eyebrows at you.
You make your way to the door and he opens it for you, letting you step into the hallway before him. You’re trying to be cute when you attempt to leave without a proper goodbye, but he isn’t having any of that. Harry reaches out and spins you to face him, arms immediately wrapping around your frame, making you giggle. 
“And just where do you think you’re going without my ‘see you later’ kiss, hm?” He inquires. 
”I’m sorry, who are you?” You say, looking up at him through your lashes. 
“Oh, baby, allow me to remind you.” And he's kissing you again, making you whimper, but not for long before he’s pulling away. 
“Nooo, one more.” you plead, chasing his lips with yours. 
“Who are you begging for a kiss from a stranger? Naughty girl.” He teases, making you giggle again. “Off you go, my love. I’ll see you tonight.” and he sends you on your way.
You begin to make your way to your car, unaware of the following eyes. You start to hear the echo of footsteps behind you, so you peer over your shoulder and see Jackson at the end of the hall trailing behind you. You panic and begin to speed walk the last bit to your car before locking your doors once inside.
“You know, I thought you were pathetic, but this is ridiculous.” You hear through your driver side window.
“Go away, Jackson.”
“How long have you been fucking him? Huh? How long have you been plotting this? Was this your plan all along? Sleep your way up the football hierarchy? I gotta say, you made one hell of a jump; quarterback to owner? Damn girl. Could’ve at least started with an offensive coordinator, or one of the coaches.” His words were coming at you so fast.
“I don’t know what you’re talking about, you wanted me first, remember?” You say, starting your car.
“You’re a right bitch, you know that? He’ll realize it soon enough and leave you in the dust like I did.”
“Did you literally forget that I’m the one who left you, genius?” You said before backing out, and pulling away.
Jackson stood and watched your car leave the parking lot, a scheme brewing in his big ass head. “I’ve got just the way to make you crumble, princess, don’t worry.” He says, laughing to himself before making his way back into the stadium.
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Christmas is coming, really fast. Like in three days fast. You realize you have nothing for anybody besides Jesse. You’d gotten him a figurine of his favorite character from his favorite anime. With the promise to Jesse of as many cupcakes as he wanted, you asked him if he’d cover by himself for a few hours while you attempted to get something for Harry, Carly, Mr. Henry, Rocco, and Ryan of course. Jesse of course accepted, settling on the idea of continuing his cake decorating. You dress yourself for the cold and make your way to the mall you know has everything.
Carly, Mr. Henry, and Rocco are all very easy to shop for. Carly loves wine, makeup, and the show Sex & The City. Mr. Henry always enjoys extra cookies of course, but you also like to get him a new set of cold gear every year. He wears them until they’re worn out until the next Christmas. He says he always appreciates it because his wife used to do the same, and that it really makes him feel cared for. That man just loves to make you cry by being sweet, and then tell you to knock it off for crying. You can't ever win with him. Rocco of course loves a good treat bag and a new toy. But you always make sure to get him a doggy scarf to match with Mr. Henry’s. 
You’d even surprisingly found something for Ryan, well two things. One of them is just a tie in a very specific color he mentioned liking, and the other is a pen that makes a sound when he clicks the top. It says “Yes, Mr. Styles.” in Ryan’s voice. You swore you’ve heard Ryan say those words more than you’ve heard him say anything else. Makes sense since he is Harry’s right hand man. But now, here we  are. Nothing for arguably the most important person.
Taking out your phone on your journey back to your car, you tap on his contact. He answers the phone on the second ring. ”Hi, sweet girl. You okay?” 
You giggle, “Of course I’m okay, why wouldn’t I be?” Reaching your car, you set your bags in the trunk and slide into the driver's seat. 
“Well, you never have time to call me in the middle of the day, so I thought something might be wrong.” He says, his voice seeming calmer now. 
“Oh, yeah, I’m out shopping. I guess I actually do kind of need your help.” You make his heart rate pick up at him hearing you needing him for something. He knew how hard asking for help was for you, no matter how small the act in question was, so he was proud of you. 
“I’m all ears, baby. What can I do for you?” 
You hesitate for a moment, “What is something you think you’d like for christmas?” 
You can hear him sigh a laugh through the phone. “Baby, I don’t need anything from you. I have all I could ever need. You gave me everything the day you agreed to be mine.” 
His words make you tear up, but your bratty side still takes over 99% of the time. “Has anyone ever told you how annoying you are?” You say, tone feigning attitude. 
“Mm, sometimes my girlfriend does when she’s pretending to be pissed at me.” He quips back at you.
“She sounds like a handful.” 
“She’s many things, but never that.” He’s doing that thing again where he talks about how easy it is to love you. “She thinks her words are sharp enough to cut.” He starts again, “But I think she’s just deflecting.”  
“I hate you.” You whisper, but he can hear your smile through the phone.
“Are you sure about that, Love?
“Yes, you still didn’t answer my question. I asked what you wanted, not what you needed.” Attempting to steer the conversation from where it was going.. But that didn’t work out very well.
“Sweet girl, I don’t think you want me to tell you what I want over the phone when I know what I’d tell you would leave you an achy mess for the rest of the day.” there’s not a single ounce of hesitation in his voice.
“Like you’d pass up an opportunity to make me squirm.” You say, a real attitude prevalent in your tone. Since he wants to go there.
“Is that a challenge? I can start listing all the ways I plan on making you squirm once I get my hands on you. You want that?”
“Y-yes.” You breathe out. Until you realize you’re sitting in your car. Sitting in your car in a public parking lot. Y/N, get a grip. “I mean, n-no. No. Stop distracting me.” You clear your throat. “Tell me something you want for Christmas, I’m serious Harry.”
“You really want to know?” He says quietly, but you know that voice.
“Nope. Bye.” You say hanging up on him. You knew exactly where that was going. He immediately calls you back but you send him to voicemail. Putting your car in drive, you take off after the perfect idea popped into your head. You just hoped this place still had what you were looking for. Harry’s still trying to call you but you’ve turned on DND. You start to get excited wondering what his reaction will be to that.
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Making your way back to the bakery, you’d called Jesse ahead of time requesting his help with the big box while you got the bags. “Where do you want this box?” He asks walking in after you.
“Would you mind taking it upstairs? Pretty pleaaaase?” You say, setting your bags on the counter.
“You got it, girl. Be right ba-, wait, keys? Oh, I see them. Be right back.” 
You turn to see the cake he was working on, thoroughly impressed by his progress. His roses are damn near perfect at this point. Now if he could just get some not dude looking handwriting, he’ll be golden! You’re turning the cake to check out the other side when the doorbell chimes. Without taking your eyes off the cake you begin to speak, “Welcome in, give me just one second.” Lifting your hands up you begin to slide the cake off of the lazy susan before turning to place the cake in the cooler. But when you turn around, you’re met with Jackson; standing at your bakery counter with a blue folder in his hand, and a devious smile on his face. He has you cornered. And Jesse is still upstairs. The cake falls from your hands right onto the floor in front of your feet.
“I finally have a way to make you pay for what you did to my career, you football ladder climbing slut.” He sneers at you, waving the folder back and forth.
“I-I d-don’t, wh-what?”
“You. You ruined me when you left.”
“I didn’t do anything to you. I didn’t say anything about you. I don’t even think I unfollowed you for heaven's sake, Jackson.” You say getting louder, hoping Jesse will hear and come back down. “What the fuck are you talking about?”
“I’ve played like shit since you left. You fucked with my head and I haven’t played the same.”
“I fucked with your head? You’re joking right?”
“Dead serious, princess. As serious as this folder right here. Here, this is your copy anyways." He says, sliding your bags off the counter, sending the limited edition Pink Floyd album that you had just bought Harry for Christmas onto the floor. Completely shattering it. The album was a first edition pressing from 1975 when the album came out. Harry wouldn’t let you buy it for him the night of your first date. “Haven’t got a turntable, Love. I wouldn’t be able to appreciate it properly.” But that’s what Jesse was taking upstairs. You’d bought him a turntable and his first record. That was now shattered on the floor. “Oops.” Jackson says, feigning an apology.
“What do you want, Jackson?” You say, snatching the folder from his hand.
“I now own this entire building, and you have one week to get all of  your shit and get the fuck out.” He says, inching closer to you over the counter.
Your eyes widen. “W-what, what the fuck are you talking about? Jesse! Jesse, come back, please!” You scream, flipping through the pages of the folder.
“Jesse, come back, please!” Jackson mocks you. “Jesse can’t do shit.” but that's when Jesse comes barreling down the stairs.
“Ah ah ah, pretty boy. I will own everything you own in the matter of seconds once you lay a finger on me. Let me explain to the both of you — since you demanded an audience — how this works.” He says, sauntering over to the table by the window and plopping down in the chair. “You own this business, not the building.” That is true. Your business is a part of a strip of brick buildings and they all have apartments above them. You paid rent every month like everyone else did along the strip. “The building was owned by Jeff Walker, who just so happened to get a pretty nice cash offer from yours truly. And now I’m the owner. How does that make you feel, princess? You wanna sleep with me again now that I own something?”
His words make you want to vomit. You’re thankful Harry has never called you princess.
“Dude, get out of here. Don’t make me call the cops.” Jesse says, stepping in front of the counter.
“Oh, I’m not staying. Just gotta let my tenants know who their new landlord is. You got a week, princess. And you’re out.” He says, flinging the door open before leaving.
You’re frozen. You’re staring at the papers saying Jackson owns your building, and you’re frozen. You can’t move. You can’t think. You almost can't even breathe. You don’t even hear Jesse calling your name. Not until he grips your shoulders and shakes you.
“Y/N, come on, come back to me.” He pleads. But you’re sinking to the floor, pulling your knees to your chest. He panics. Looking in your bag, he grabs your phone and calls Harry.
“Oh, now you want to continue what you started earlier? I see how you are, Naughty girl.” Harry says when he answers the phone.
“Look man, I’ll pretend like i didn’t hear that if you please get to Y/N’s shop as soon as you possibly can.”
“Did something happen? What’s wrong?” Panic rising in Harry’s tone.
“Jackson was here, there’s some folder. I don–, just get here, please. She needs you.”
“Fuck, Okay. I am on my way right now. Thank you for calling me, Jesse. Tell her I’ll be there soon.”
Jesse gets down on the floor with you and wraps his arm around your shoulders. “Hey, you’re good. Harry’s on his way, alright?”
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Harry gets to your shop in record time. Pushing the door open and rushing inside like his life depended on it. “Baby? Where are you?” he asks, not seeing anybody.
“We’re down here!” Jesse claims from behind the counter. Harry walks around the counter taking in the sight before him. You’re cradled into Jesse, absolutely shaking.
“Oh no, my girl. Come here, baby.” He says.
“She says she can’t stand.”
“Oh, I know she can. She’s strong. C’mon baby, let's go upstairs.” He says, placing his hand on your shoulder. “C’mon, I know you can.”
You shake your head. “H-he b-bought the building, H-harry.” You cry out, “I’m going to lose ever—” Unable to speak, your sobs take over.
“What is she talking about?” He asks, looking at Jesse, not wanting you to try to talk anymore.
“It’s all in that folder.’ Jesse nods his head towards the counter next to Harry.
He picks it up, flipping through the contents. “Hah, that fucker.” He says, folding the folder in half and tucking it into his jacket pocket. “Alright, Love.” He says, leaning down to pull you up and into his arms. “Up we go.” He tosses you slightly to get his arms in the right spots under your knees and across your back.
“I’ll take care of everything down here. Thank you for coming, man.” Jesse gently grabs Harry’s shoulder. 
“Of course. Thank you for calling.” Harry responds before he disappears with you up the stairs. 
He walks you into the bathroom and sets you down on the counter before trying to step away from your hold, but your arms remained locked around his neck. “No. Stay. Please.”
“I am, baby, I want to run you a bath.” He chuckles, “Promise, I'm coming right back, yeah?” he presses his lips to your temple to soothe you. You nod and let him go. Harry walks over to the bathtub and turns the knob. Setting his arm out to test the water until it’s warm enough for your liking, and drops the stopper in the drain. Before returning to you, he drops some of your lavender bubble bath that’s placed on the side of your tub. He stands between your legs again and places his hands on your hips. “Alright, my girl, arms up.” He says while grabbing the hem of your sweatshirt.
“Will y-you get in w-with me?” You ask as he reaches behind you to gently undo your bra.
“Of course, If that’s what you want.” He’s reaching down to unbutton your jeans and you slide down off the counter so he can pull them down your legs along with your underwear. “My girl. I hate seeing you so sad. Let’s get you relaxed. Deal with what we can right now, yeah?” You nod, trying to even out your breathing. He pulls his clothes from his body before settling in the tub. Harry holds his hand out to help guide you, “Careful, don’t slip.” he says as you set your foot down into the warm water. You sink down and Harry pulls you to lay on his front, wrapping his arms around your waist before sinking so you're both covered by the water. “Alright, sweetheart, you’re safe now. I’m here with you,” He says, rubbing soothing circles where his thumbs rest on your hips.
“He’s ruined everything, Harry.” You cry.
“Baby, he hasn’t ruined anything yet. He’s got a piece of paper saying he’s giving Walker some money. We can’t solve anything about that right now. Let’s focus on what we can solve, okay? What can we solve right now, even if it’s small?” He asks you, reaching up to rub his hands all over your back.
You shake your head, “Can you just hold me, please?”
“Course i can. We can talk later if you want?” 
“Can you just talk? Distract me?”
“Absolutely, love. About anything in particular?”
“Talk to me about your tattoos.” You say, running your fingers over the ones you can see on his chest.
Harry goes into his story about when he started getting his tattoos. He tells you the stories behind the ones that mean the most to him. He explains his tattoos as a collection of memories of instances in his life that he never wants to forget. You think that sounds wonderful.
“Would you get one for me?” You ask, partially teasing.
“Of course I would. I’d do it tomorrow.”
“Wait, really? I wasn’t serious. That’s permanent, Harry.”
“Really? They are? I had no idea.” He teases you. “Better get my money back. I was wondering why they weren’t coming off in the shower.”
“You’re so annoying.” You huff at him, making him breathe a laugh through his nose. “What would you get for me?”
“Hm, hard to tell. Perhaps the outline of a cupcake?” He muses at you.
“I quite like that idea, Mr. Styles.”
“I enjoy any idea that keeps a piece of you with me forever.” He says placing a kiss on your forehead.
“You know, you give my cupcakes a run for their money with your sweetness.” You say earning a chuckle from him.
Harry continues to hold you until you begin to stir. “Are you ready to get out?” He’s looking down at you, continuing his ministrations with his hands on your hips.
You nod, “Yeah. Will you keep holding me though?” You ask.
“Anything you want, baby.” He assures you.
Harry gently dries you off before helping you brush your hair, and put a set of your pajamas on. You’ve seen every inch of this man but these actions here feel so much more intimate to you. You’ve never felt so cared for in your life. He slides into a pair of his clothes that you keep in a drawer for him in your dresser--He melted when you told him that it was his drawer– and he gets into your bed with you. He curls himself around you, face tucked into your neck, an arm sliding under your shoulders, and the other across your waist, and he pulls you as close as he possibly can.
You’re soothed by the soft thump of his heartbeat against your back, and the warmth of his even breaths against your neck. Your breathing finally begins to fully calm, and you slowly stop shaking. 
“M’ so tired, Harry.” You whisper. He places a soft kiss on the nape of your neck.
“You wanna take a nap, baby? I’ll stay with you.” He says, breath tickling your throat.
“That’s not what I meant. I’m tired of everything going wrong.”
“Everything hasn’t gone wrong, sweetheart. I will look into this first thing in the morning, okay?”
“He broke your christmas present.” You say, turning yourself in his hold so you were facing him. “I found you the perfect gift and it’s gone. Shattered, Harry.”
“Baby, I told you, you’re the best gift I could have asked for. Material things are great, but I’d rather have you.” He says, cradling the side of your face.
“You have me all the time, Harry. Why do you always have the right thing to say?” You roll your eyes at him, trying not to smile. He makes it so hard to be upset. He looks at things with such a positive outlook and it’s so contagious. 
“Did you just roll your eyes at me?” He quips, sliding his hand under your jaw and lightly squeezing, eliciting a whimper from you.
“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” You say, blinking your lashes at him.
“Sure you don’t, pretty.” He says, placing a chaste kiss to your lips. “I’m sorry you had such a rough day. We’ll start over tomorrow, okay? Is there anything else we can do tonight to make you feel a little better?” He says while peppering kisses all over your face, making you giggle. “Anything at all, baby?” You know exactly what he wants, how he wants to distract you.
“Nope, not a thing.” You say as he slides his other hand further down your body, teasing the hem of your sleep shorts. “Can’t think of anything else I n–eed toni–, ohh.” The tips of his fingers find that spot, and you’re at a loss for words; He stole them right from your mouth and replaced them with his tongue. You reach your hands up, winding them in his hair and pull him off of you, “Please, don’t stop.” You say before connecting your lips again.
“Oh, but I thought my girl didn’t need anything else from me?” He teases.
“Harry, I swear to god I'll kill you.”
“Ooh, she’s feisty now, everybody.” He says while gently turning you two over so he’s leaning over you. “Sure you can’t think of anything else you need?” You shake your head, trying to pull his face to yours, and hooking your leg around his hip to pull him closer, but he’s not budging. “Gotta use your words for me, baby.”
You pout at him, “I hate you.” 
“Sure you do, sweetheart. Gonna tell me what you need?”
“You. Need you. Please.”
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Harry wakes up a few hours later to the feeling of you wrapped around him. If you asked him, he’d take this version of waking up every day. But he'll have that conversation with you later, when he knows you’re ready to have it.
Slowly, he peels himself away from you, it warms his heart to see your sleeping frame frown at the loss of his warmth. “I’ll be right back, baby. Just need to make a call.” He whispers against your forehead before pressing a kiss. He knows you’re sleeping, but just in case a small part of you wasn't, he didn't want that small part to worry. Harry quietly pulls your bedroom door shut before making his way into your kitchen. He finds his jacket and retrieves his phone, immediately calling Ryan.
“Yes, Mr. Styles?” Ryan says as soon as he answers the phone.
“Ryan, I need you to do something.” Harry breathes into the phone. “I need you to get a meeting with Jeff Walker. As soon as possible.”
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Stretching your arm to the right, you feel the cold sheets of your bed. You sit up and notice your door is slightly ajar, and faintly you can hear the clattering of pans in the kitchen.
“Harry?” You call out, slipping out of the comfort of your bed. You wince at the ache in your legs once you pull yourself to stand. Harry’s sweatshirt is laying on the ottoman at the end of your bed, so you slip that over your head and make your way towards the sounds in the kitchen.
Taking in the sight before you, a shirtless Harry standing at the counter, whisking something together in a large bowl. His sweatpants are hanging dangerously low on his hips, and his hair is wildly unkempt looking. But you’d wake up to this sight every day if he asked you to. He’s still unaware of your presence, so to really get his attention you saunter over behind him and slowly snake your arms around his middle, laying your cheek against his bare back.
“Good morning, pretty.” He says placing one of his hands over yours on his chest. “Did you sleep well?”
“Mm, like a baby.” You hum against his back. “My legs are sore though, you menace.” He chuckles at that, turning himself in your hold, wrapping his arms around you.
“Are you complaining?” He asks, placing a kiss on your temple.
“No, not at all.” You roll your eyes at him.
“Rolling our eyes this early? You a masochist or something?” He teases you, pinching your ass and making you jolt.
You shake your head and press your face into his chest. “No. You’re just annoying.”
“Mm, mhm. So annoying, baby.” He says before kissing the crown of your head. Harry then reaches his hands down the backs of your thighs and lifts you onto the counter.. “Let me finish this, and then I’m all yours until we have to get ready for work. How’s that sound?”
“I don’t think I can do it today, Harry. I’m so mentally exhausted. I don’t want to open my shop if I won’t be able to open it a week from now.”
“Oh, my sweet girl. Everything will fall into place, I promise.” He says cupping your cheek; swiping over the surface with his thumb.
“How can you stand there and say that? How can you know that?” You say, not accusingly but with a pleading tone. You want nothing more than to believe him, but you’ve lost so much in your life, it's hard to believe in any kind of positive outcome.
“I don’t. But you have to look at it that way. You have to give yourself something to hope for. You’re just making yourself miserable by expecting the worst.”
“It’s easier if I expect the worst and then the worst happens. I prepared myself for it at least.”
“No, baby. That’s not healthy.” He says tilting your head back to look into your eyes. “I know you’ve been through so much, and it always feels like life is out to get you. But I promise it’s not all bad out there. There are so many exciting things for you to experience, but you have to try. You have to have hope. Can you try for me today?” He asks, pressing a kiss to your nose. “Please, my girl?” You slowly nod your head in his hold, but he shakes his. “Nuh uh, baby. I need to hear you say you’re going to try for me today.”
“I pr-promise I’ll try, Harry.” He smiles at you.
“Good girl.” He says, stepping back to the stove, but not before pecking your lips.
He continues to make breakfast and serves you at the island. As he places the plates down, his phone vibrates next to him. A message from Ryan displayed on the screen.
Right Hand Ryan: Good morning Mr. Styles. Walker agreed to a meeting this morning at 10:30. I’ll see you when you arrive at the office.
Harry: Thank you, Ryan.
Going about the rest of your morning routine with Harry feels so domestic and right to you. You still can’t believe that a stranger you met in a parking lot would mean this much to you now. You’re certain of how you feel, but you won’t let the words come out. But Harry knows. He can see it in how you look at him. He just hopes you can tell he feels the same in the way he looks at you. 
The two of you make your way downstairs, just in time for Jesse to make his way inside to help open.
“Good morning you two. I wasn’t sure what the plan was but I was gonna show up either way.” Jesse says from the doorway.
“We’re gonna milk this for all it’s worth and go from there.” You say, squeezing Harry’s hand beside you. He squeezes yours right back. “Everything will fall into place.” 
“Hell yeah. I like the sound of that.” Jesse says, pumping his fist in the air. “I’ll get my stuff set up then. See you later, Harry. Thanks again for yesterday.” He says, giving Harry a fist bump before he goes into the back room.
“What a lovely pep talk, baby. Sounds like you’ve got a great life coach.” Harry says leaning down to kiss you.
“Mm, not sure about a life coach. But I’ve got a pretty good boyfriend.”
“Can he fight? Because you’re mine, in case you forgot.”
“Not sure about that. I’m sure he can though. He’s good at everything he does. Especially this one thing with his ton-,”
“Okay, pretty, I really have to go, and if you finish tha-“ you cut him off with a kiss.
“Off you go, my sweet boy.” You say smiling up at him. He’s got hearts in his eyes at the moniker. You haven’t called him anything but Harry all these months.
“I’ll be back for you later,” he grumbles before kissing you once more, and then he’s gone.
Jesse does his best to distract you throughout the morning. He kept showing you how well he could form a rose now on the nail. It was so nice seeing him so proud of himself. You felt so happy knowing that the knowledge you taught him was making this kind of impact on him. 
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It’s Christmas Eve. Harry asked you to spend the holiday with him at his place, but you begged him to spend it with you at yours. You said you wanted to spend as much time in your place as you could before it was no longer yours. It tugged at his heartstrings and he folded. You had no idea of the trick up his sleeve anyhow. So the place he presented it to you was of no matter.
“Baby, can you help me with this real fast?” You say from the living room. Harry nearly slices his finger off at you calling him ‘baby’. He still hasn’t stopped thinking about you calling him your ‘sweet boy’ the other day. After hearing both of these names you’ve chosen for him he’s certain he never wants to hear you call him Harry again.
“Y-yeah, of course.” He says setting the knife down and walking over to you. You’re setting up the christmas tree you had tucked away in the closet, but you can't quite reach to set the star on top. “What’s up, pretty? Oh, you’re being vertically challenged, eh?” He teases, taking the star from your grasp and placing it atop the tree. He turns and looks at you and chuckles at the frown etched all over your face.
“Shut up. It’s not like I can help it.” You huff. “Not everyone is a big, tall, pain in the ass of a man.” You say as he inches closer to you, winding his arms around you and pulling you closer with every word that left your lips.
“I know, I’m sooo annoying and such a pain in the ass. I know, baby.” He coos at you, placing a kiss to your forehead. You spin in his hold and take in the state of your christmas tree. “Looks beautiful, my girl. He places another kiss to your temple.
“Does it? Is it good enough to be our first christmas tree?” You ask quietly. Placing your hands over his arms as they lay across your chest.
“You kiddin’? Course it is. You did it, so it's perfect.” He says, making you roll your eyes. “Don’t you roll your eyes at me. It’s true.” One of his hands travels south to pinch your ass, again.
“How would you know I rolled my eyes? You can’t even see my face.” 
“Mm, on the contrary, my love. I see your face every time I close my eyes. But I know you rolled your eyes because I know you.” Harry says, spinning you back around in his hold. “Now, come. We have much to do in the kitchen.”
“Harry, I’m not kissing you every 30 seconds because you bought yourself a ‘Kiss the Cook!’ apron.
“No, no. None of that in my kitchen right now. We’ve got a meal to prepare. Now, follow my lead.” He says placing your hands on his hips and guiding you to the kitchen.
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Harry had two different gifts to give you, but he had to wait until early Christmas morning to get one of them. He wooed you with a delicious home cooked meal, some wine and another bath that wasn’t so PG rated thanks to said wine, and a good cuddle session before bed.
Harry stirs awake just a little before the sunrise. He eases himself from your hold and sneaks his way into the living room. Looking for the item in question, he places it into the gift box and sets it under the tree with the other presents, and then tiptoes back to your bedroom to lay with you until you wake up. He sets himself back down on your bed and inches his way towards you, careful not to wake you before you’re ready. (He made that mistake before) You stir slightly in your sleep and turn towards him, placing your hand on his chest. He takes the opportunity to take that hand in his and position himself under you so you could rest your head on his chest. He studies your face and takes in how serene you look. How at peace, how happy you look. It makes tears burn at the seams of his eyes, but you begin to move and he wipes them away.
“Too early.” You mumble, pulling your comforter up over your head.
“Ah, but baby, Santa was here and I think he wants you to open your presents.” Harry coos at you, slowly pulling the blanket off of you.
“Santa can fuck off.” You huff.
“Such language. You kiss your man with that mouth?” He quips at you, placing a soft smack to your ass.
“Mm, all the time. Says he loves my filthy mouth.”
“Oh, I do, sweetheart.” He concurs. “But, I do really need you to get up. We’ve got a breakfast to make and presents to open, my sweet girl.” He says placing his arms under your legs, and your back before lifting you from your bed.
“Harry! Stop, I need pants.” You say as he leaves your bedroom.
“Oh, I beg to differ on that one, love.” He says setting you down on the couch.
“It’s cold in here, you horn dog.” You scold him.
“Ah, but I can think of so many things we could do to warm you up that don’t involve pants.”
“Oh my god, down boy. Take your bone and chill.” You say making your way back to your room.
Upon your return, Harry is waiting for you on the couch, quite literally looking like a kid on Christmas. “Come sit with me.” He says holding his hand out to you. Taking your seat next to him, he pulls your legs to rest in his lap before reaching over and grabbing the two gift boxes he has for you.
“Oh, yours is that big box right there.” You point next to the tree. He smiles and grabs the box and places it in front of him. He hands you the first of the two boxes he wants you to open. Pulling the ribbon from the top of the box, you pull the top of the box off and open it to find a singular key. “It’s a key.” You say. “I’m lost.” You laugh out.
“That, my love, is a key to my house.” He deadpans, searching your face for a reaction. “If you want it, of course.” You snap your head to look at him. Tears have formed in your waterline and your lip begins to quiver. “Oh, baby. This wasn’t meant to make you cry. I’m sorry.” He says pulling you into his embrace.
“No, No, it's fine. Really. I’m happy.” You assure him. “I’m so happy.” You say pressing your lips to his. “So, so, so happy.”.
“So you’ll move in with me?” He asks excitedly.
“Of course I will.” You say, grabbing his hand and leaving a kiss on his palm. “I’d love nothing more, baby.” 
“You keep calling me that.” He mumbles.
“I’m sorry, do you not like it?”
“No, I don't like it.” He deadpans, making you sweat a little. “I love it. Please keep going.”
“Oh, okay you narcissist. Your turn to open something.” You say lightly pushing him off of you.
“Alright, alright.” He slides the big box closer to him. “I thought I told you I didn't need anything from you.” He says.
“I thought I told you to shut up and open your present.” You scold him
“Okay, down girl.” He muses at you. Harry starts tearing the wrapping paper to get to the present beneath it. He’s met with the words ‘Audio Technica’ and a smile breaks onto his face. “A turntable? You got me a turntable?” He looks to you with adoration in his eyes.
“Yeah, thought you might like to start your own collection since you liked going through mine so much.” You say smiling at him. 
“My sweet, sweet girl.” He says, wrapping his arm around your shoulder. “Thank you, baby. I absolutely love it.”
“There was another part to it, but that’s the part that Jackson broke.” You whispered out. “I went back to that record store you took me to on our second date and got you that limited edition Pink Floyd record. I wanted to get you your first record too.”
“Hey, it’s okay. It’s not your fault. I love this without the record. We can always find another one someday.”
“I guess you’re right.” You huff. 
“Course I am. Now, I believe you have one more present to open.” He says handing you the other little gift box. He keeps his arm wrapped around your shoulders as you pull the top off of the box.
“It’s.. my keys?” You say pulling your keys from the box. “What is it with you and keys?” You ask him. He just stares at you with a shit eating grin. “Well?”
“Allow me to explain.” Harry says before his story begins.
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The morning of his meeting with Jeff Walker, he’d been determined to change the outcome of this purchase no matter what it took. He was certain things would go in his favor; they always did. It also helped that Walker was a past associate of Harry’s so there was already a mutual respect there.
Walker knocks on Harry’s office door and Ryan lets him in. The men shake hands and proceed to take their respective seats. “Harry, you old dog. I must say, I was surprised to get your meeting request, old friend. How long has it been?” “Too long, Jeff. How’s the wife?” Harry muses from his seat. 
“Ah, Janet is lovely. She’s actually in Japan right now, but she is not the reason you wanted this meeting. So, my good man, do enlighten me.
“Nothing gets by you, Jeff. I indeed do need your help.”
“Well, I am all ears. Always willing to help an old friend in need. What can I do for you, Styles?”
“First, let me ask you this, what exactly is your business with Jackson Cole?” Harry asks, fiddling with the pen between his fingers.
“Ah, that boy. He came to me a few weeks ago asking if he could buy a property of mine. Says he wants to delve into the realm of property owning.” Jeff begins, “But at first I wasn’t budging. That was until he offered to pay in cash. So I accepted his offer.”
“See, that’s where my problem is.”
“I’m not following, Harry.”
“Jeff, I met a girl this year and she’s turned out to mean more to me than anyone else on this planet.”
“That doesn’t seem like much of a problem to me.” Jeff laughs from his seat.
“No, that’s not the problem.” Harry chuckles, “The problem is that she used to be in a relationship with Cole. A toxic one; He was horrible to her. And now Cole is planning on using the building he’s purchasing from you to try and ruin her life. Her business is in that building, and he’s told her she’s got a week to get out.”
“Well, the sale isn’t even finalized until next week.” Jeff says from his chair. “And I don’t like the sound of this kid. I’m surprised he’s still here.”
“That’s being handled once we’re done here,” Harry muses, “So there’s time then? To cancel the deal?”
“Indeed, but i quite liked the idea of selling that building, Harry, i can’t even lie to you.”
“I’ll buy it then. I’ll give you what he was going to give you. I’ll even throw in covering the cancellation costs and a stipend for you.”
“You really like this girl, huh, Styles?”
“You have no idea, Jeff. Do we have a deal?” Harry asks, reaching his hand across his desk.
“Of course, old friend.” He grabs Harry’s hand in a firm shake, “Let’s try to not let as much time pass before our next meeting, Harry.”
“Agreed, Jeff. Have a great trip back to the city. I greatly appreciate your time today.”
“I hope you make that girl's day when you tell her.” Jeff says before making his way out. Harry lets out a breath he wasn’t aware he was holding. He was certain he’d be able to get what he needed from this meeting, but it still shook him to his core to know that Y/N’s business was on the line. He was willing to do whatever it took, but he was thankful Jeff was so willing to help Harry out. Although it might be because Harry had been Jeff’s biggest donor when he was starting his company. But Jeff would never admit that.
“Are you going to tell Y/N?” Ryan asks from his desk in the corner.
“Soon, yes. First, I need you to get Cole in here. Tell him I’m not asking.”
“Yes, Mr. Styles.” Ryan says before leaving the office in search of Jackson.
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“Y-you bought this place?” You ask him, unable to contain your tears anymore. "I thought you said Walker backed out of the deal."
“He did, out of the deal with Jackson and into one with me. It's all yours, Love.”
“Wait. Harry, I don’t know how to be a landlord.”
“Ah, not to worry, love. I’ll take care of all of that. You just worry about making your sweets and running your business. But I still want you to come home to me every night.”
“Harry.” You say. “I don’t even know what to say.”
“You don’t have to say anything, baby. You don’t have to say anything at all.” He says cradling you to his chest.
“I just can’t believe someone would do something like this for me.” You say cupping his face with both hands. 
He reaches up and grips your wrists lightly and looks into your eyes, “I would do anything for you, my perfect girl.” He kisses you softly. “I love you.. So much.” He says, happy tears streaming down his face as he looks at you with such adoration.
Those words. Those words you’d been so desperate to hear for the longest time, and for someone to mean them? You’re a mess. Harry showed you that it’s okay to get your hopes up, because he’ll max out your expectations every time. You’re sure you’re bawling but can’t seem to care. You’re certain you feel the same. “And I love you so much, my sweet, perfect boy.” You say before kissing him with more fervor than you ever have before. He pulls away and he’s looking at you like you hung all the stars in the sky. “Merry Christmas, Baby.” You say to him.
“Merry Christmas, Love.”
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Bonus:
“You wanted to see me, Mr. Styles?” Jackson says as he enters Harry’s office.
“Indeed, son. Have a seat.” Harry motions to the chairs across from his desk. Jackson takes a seat and glances around the room warily.
“Now, I’m going to explain this to you very quickly and carefully, Cole. You are going to walk out of this office, go into the locker room and clear your shit out.” “Wait a sec-” Jackson begins to speak, but Harry’s quicker.
“Silence. I’m speaking.” Harry says, waving his hand. “As I was saying, after you’ve cleared out your locker, there's a plane waiting for you at the airport. Your apartment is in the process of being sold and all your items are being packed at this very moment. The plane will be taking you to Los Angeles where you will join their 53 man roster as a third string quarterback.”
“Third string? What is the meaning of this, sir?”
“I am so glad you asked.” Harry muses. “It seems you can’t leave alone what’s mine. So I'm removing you from the situation in a way that keeps you alive, me out of prison, and my girlfriend's mind at ease.”
“Mr. Styles, with all due respect I’m of more use to you here.”
“Really? A dead last draft pick that cant keep his feet on the ground is of use to me here? How does that make any sense? The same dead last draft pick that fumbled the ball more times than I could count in last year's championship game?”
“Sir, please, I’ll do anyth–”
“Enough. The decision has been made, Cole. You’re free to go. Say goodbye to your teammates and be on your way.” Harry says, making Jackson stand from his seat. “One more thing,” Harry starts before Jackson can leave, “If you ever try to speak to, bother, or even breathe the same air as Y/N again, I will have your career. You’re lucky you still have one. You can thank her for that. She wouldn’t be able to live with it if I’d gotten to do what I actually wanted to. So, count your blessings, boy.” He pauses briefly, taking in the look of anger and desperation all over Jackson’s face. “Have I made myself clear?”
“Y-yes, Mr. Styles.”
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a/n 2.0: THANK YOU ALL SO MUCH FOR COMING ALONG WITH ME ON THIS JOURNEY!! THANK YOU AGAIN TO MOTHER @freedomfireflies FOR THE ENCOURAGEMENT AND LOVE. I really owe so much to you!! I absolutely adore you 🫶🏻🩵
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please like &/or reblog if you enjoyed <3
taglist: @stylesfever @olipoli21 @hermionelove @st-ev-ie @mrs-anna-styles211994 @hannah9921 @velvetballaspark
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axeoverblade · 10 months
Note
Could you do headcanons about Miles, Gwen, Pavitr, and Hobie having a tall and scary/intimidating s/o who is actually a big sweetheart? How they meet, first impressions, and dating stuff?? If that’s too much, no prob, alter it however you need to! :)
B. F. G
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ATSV! squad x gn! reader
Synopsis! Never judge a book by its cover
MASTERLIST
Genre: fluff
Warnings: none!
Word count: unavailable
Authors comment: BONUS:GWEN, super cute lol hope this is what you wanted enjoy <3
Do not copy! All rights reserved to ©axeoverblade
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ᴜɴᴅᴇʀ ᴛʜᴇ ᴄᴜᴛ
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1610 MILES
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Bro is scared of nothing (think Simba from look king “I laugh in the face of danger”)
So when he sees you out on patrol, it throws him off that he became so on guard
You’re making the hairs on the back of his neck stand
Would never tell you this but at first you were gonna be a bad guy
So when you helped a lil kid cross the street and paid for them to get ice cream, he was a wee bit confused
Tailed you for a long time on different days, and always saw you doing good things .
So at first he develops a lil identity crush, not a romantic crush on you
Like he thinks it’s cool that you have this presence about you and it’s completely different from how you actually are
He meets you as spider man before as himself
You actually helped him, not a lot but enough where you interacted with him for a bit and he thanked you for helping
You just stopped a guy from stealing an older woman’s purse by tripping the thief and returning the purse
Miles saw it as you could be the next spider man
Suddenly you keep seeing spiderman all the time (totally by accident and not because he learned your routine)
Talk to him so often you develop nicknames for each other.
Been months since you’ve known him and he like is obsessed with you, full on in love and everything
So he decides to reveal who he is
Obv you accept him, give him a hug saying you won’t tell anyone
So now you guys hang out as friends
Casually flirts with you all the time (he’s trying so hard to make u like him even though u alr do)
Makes u meet his parents
miles forgot your looks don’t match your personality
HIS PARENTS ARE SO ON GUARD
His dad gave you that look
The one that screams “ stay away from my child and take your thuggish activities out this house” when you first walked in
kinda made you sad cause you thought they didn’t like you and you haven’t even talked to him yet
After they get to know you through the night his parents legit love you
Say how much of a good influence you must be on Miles and tell Miles to be more like you
Tell you to come by anytime
(They could easily tell miles likes you and vise versa but don’t say anything)
So Miles finally works up the balls to confess
Happy moments and a kiss
Overall good day
When your walking hand in hand down the sidewalk and keep getting weird stares because of the high contrast in your auras it confuses people
but then you and Miles both smile and its the same super big bright smile, people get why you’re together
HOBIE BROWN
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When he first saw you, standing as tall as him in the store with that “I’ll kill you if you come near me” energy he thought you would be an issue honestly
Thought you were cool but def though you were gonna try and fight anyone near you or something
He wasn’t in his suit cause he was washing it and was lowkey upset you caught him when he was just going to the store to restock his snacks instead of out on duty
But he was excited for what ever you were gonna do when you passed him because he wanted to fight today
“Accidentally” bumps into you to see how you respond
But when you smile at him sweetly, apologize, and keep it moving, bro is confused
Walks right back up to you and starts talking to you
Digs the inconsistency between your personality and your looks
Also digs just your looks
He thinks you're super attractive
Was quick to get with you, he knew he wanted you after that first convo at the store
You guys click so well aesthetically cause even though your brooding walking around and he looks all chill (and mischievous) like nothing can bother him, the way you two are holding hands with your thumb rubbing the back of each others palms is a dead give away you two are on the same page
Sometimes he sees you and is just like “you don’t match”
He never explains what he means by it but says it’s a good thing
Wasn’t scared at all to tell you he was spiderman
You two def go on swinging dates where he just takes you everywhere
Overall fun and happy times
PAVITR PRABHAKAR
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He was a little nervous when he first saw you
Not because of your energy but because he thought you didn’t like him
Like you looked like if anyone approached you, you would rip their head off
So maybe he was a wee bit scared of how you looked
But he knew better than to judge appearances. Bro is so intuitive that he doesn’t need a meesily appearance to tell him who you are on the inside
So he walks up to you and says hi
The big smile that graces your face makes him smile big too
Happy he followed his intuition to just approach you
At first you two are just good friends
Anytime you two are in public you get weird looks
Like what’s this jolly looking fellow doing with you
Then you laugh at his antics all happily and they get it
You actually confessed first
As “intuitive” as he was he didn’t notice your feelings
Doesn’t take him by surprise though
Oh my gosh he is so happy and pda-ing in public and everyone is like are you sure you two are supposed to be together
But then your face lights up with this look of joy every time you look at him and people have no choice but to mind their business
It’s a good thing opposites attract, even though personality wise you two are very similar
Really happy he approached you despite his fear otherwise he would’ve never met the love of his life
BONUS! GWEN STACY
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Gwen thought you were cool at first
Your height is what would’ve intimidated her not your aura
Like she isn’t scared or anything, just a little bit more on guard around you
she first met you at one of the band get together cause you were one of the band members friends
She didn’t want to judge on appearance though so she tries her best to keep her opinion about you to a minimum until she actually talked to you
Happy she did
saw you get up and get waters for everyone because “we should stay hydrated”
Thought it was cute how sweet you were
She approaches you and you two become friends quick
You two meet up regularly outside of band meets
Wouldn’t tell you that she found you super attractive (and vise versa)
Like not even looks, just you as a whole
Gives her scary dog privileges honestly
Likes yes she can one hundred percent defend herself and is more than capable
But no one even looks her way anymore when your with her
Made her happy to be left alone in the streets now
So you actually have to confess first
Sweetest confession ever got her flowers
She ofc says yes cause she had a crush on you too
You bake together all the time, even if one of you are good or bad; or both are good or bad at baking, you two are having fun
Meeting her dad was a given
At first he could’ve sworn you were a murderer
wasn’t feeling you at all
Then he had a convo with you and was like “oh okay I get it”
He loves how sweet you are and hopes you rub off on his daughter cause “she isn’t nice enough to him”
Happy relationship :)
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©axeoverblade
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theemporium · 9 months
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lovelovelove your writing so much!! could i request Remus with bestie reader and she finds out all their other friends know he's a werewolf but no one told her (obvi she knows deep down bcus she's not blind or stupid xd) and just angst and reader being upset and mad and ignoring everyone
thank you!!! and thank you for requesting!🖤
part two
.
You weren’t mad that he kept it a secret.
You knew how the world viewed werewolves. You knew the stigma and stereotypes that were whispered about them. You knew even in the school curriculum, they were talked down upon and viewed as lower than witches and wizards. You didn’t agree with any of it, but the simple fact was that the Wizarding World didn’t want to accept werewolves as a part of their society.
So, it wasn’t a surprise to you that Remus decided to keep his secret hidden, and you respected it. 
You even made a point of trying to help him out when you could, even if he didn’t ask. You made sure to talk a little softer the days after a full moon. You would try to be wary that if he snapped the days before, it was the wolf and not him so you wouldn’t get too upset about the matter. You would cover for him when other people questioned his disappearance.
You did it because Remus Lupin was your best friend and you loved him, and you respected his secret. 
But that didn’t mean it hurt like a fucking bitch when you realised Remus told everyone his secret, he had confided in his friends for help, all except you.
It was a bitter realisation, like a slap in the face you weren’t quite expecting and it hurt a lot more than you cared to admit. It wasn’t even the fact he told them, it was the sheer principle that he trusted them to tell him, he wanted their help, he wanted them by his side—not you. That was what hurt the most.
You weren’t proud to admit that your reaction was quite childish, but you couldn’t stand to be in a room with Remus and the others, let alone talk to them which led to the cold shoulder you had been giving them. 
At first, Remus assumed you just wanted to spend breakfast with some other friends at another table, so he didn’t think much into it even if he wished you were in your usual spot beside him. But then classes started, and you made a point of switching seats with someone in every single one so you were on the other side of the room. Then, before he could even reach your desk, you would be out the door in a dash.
Remus knew you were ignoring him and it hurt. It hurt that he was losing his best friend.
He thought it was just him you were avoiding, but later that night when he was sat with the others, they had all confessed they had experienced the same behaviour with you over the last few days. 
“She completely blanked me in the corridor,” James said with a frown. 
“And she missed out on our study group,” Lily chimed in.
“I heard she’s been hanging around Regulus and his group,” Sirius confessed, and that reveal alone caused the group to pause. You were by no means enemies with the younger Black brother, but they hadn’t realised you were all that close either.
“So, what? She’s just replacing us?” Marlene asked, but none of them had an answer. Remus wasn’t even sure he wanted to hear the answer. 
It wasn’t until over a week later when Remus finally got a hold of you. It wasn’t his proudest moment to have all but cornered you in the library, but this was the closest he had gotten to you in almost two weeks and he wasn’t going to let the chance slip through his fingers. 
“Why are you ignoring us?” 
No response.
“Why are you ignoring me?”
But you still didn’t respond, instead trying to push your way past him towards the aisle you were heading towards before the boy intercepted your way. However, Remus moved quicker, now standing directly in front of you with his hands on your shoulders, but you quickly stepped away.
“Don’t touch me,” you stated simply.
A look of hurt flashed across his face. “Love—”
“No,” you seethed, the rage and anger and hurt you had been bottling up for the last few weeks now tipping over the edge. “No, you don’t get to ‘love’ me after everything you’ve done.”
“And what have I done?” Remus asked, exasperated. 
You hated that your hands were shaking as you pressed a pointed finger against his chest. You hated that you could feel tears welling in your eyes. You hated that a part of you missed him despite the anger coursing through your veins. 
“I thought we meant more than that, I thought we trusted each other,” you said to him, shaking your head. “Clearly, I was just an idiot for thinking that.”
Remus shook his head. “Of course I trust—”
“You told everyone,” you whisper-yelled, keeping your voice low enough so only he could hear you. “You told everyone your secret but me. You trusted everyone but me.”
The boy froze, taking in the words you had just said. His face paled and you tried to use the moments of shock to push past him, but the action of your shoulder nudging against his snapped him out of his trance. His hand reached out to grip your wrist, a pleading look on his face.
“I just wanted to protect you,” he said but the words fell short.
“And how did that turn out for you?” you retorted, pulling your hand out of his grasp before you left him standing in the library, dumbfounded and guilty as he realised he had just potentially lost his best friend, the one person that meant more to him than anyone else.
.
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seaofwine · 6 months
Note
What do you like about the Odyssey? Besides some entertaining episodes (e.g. Circe or Calypso), I've never really been able to get into the Odyssey as a whole (I find the first 5 books especially dull). The Iliad really speaks to me more.
It's hard to really pinpoint what I like most about it but I love to talk about the Odyssey so I hope you like long posts hahaha
The first five books act as the exposition. When the Iliad ends, there's a general understanding that most of the surviving characters made it home. Menelaus and Helen have reunited, the catalyst for the Trojan War has been resolved. Agamemnon traversed the sea and made it back, and although he was killed by his wife Clytemnestra, there is no question about where he is; unlike Odysseus.
Telemachus has spent his entire youth without a father. When he finally decides to set out from Ithaca to find any leads on where Odysseus is, he is confronted with the fact that most everyone else has been accounted for. He sees Menelaus and Helen, the order of their kingdom, the comfort they have in each other and the bonds they have restored. Telemachus has known nothing but uncertainty, while his mother is forced to weave lies and deceptions to keep the suitors that plague their home at bay. The first five books really show how important one man can be when he is utterly lost, and what it would mean for everyone who loves him should he be found. These books also show the close interest that Athena, as patron of Odysseus, takes in his family. She steps into the chaos of Ithaca and gives Telemachus the inspiration to embark on his own journey, chasing the ghost of his still-living father.
When we finally reach Odysseus, he is not the same man that those who knew him in Troy described. They are the closest Telemachus can come to knowing what came of his father, but even they are separated by nearly a decade and the breadth of the sea. Penelope hasn't laid eyes on her husband in twenty years, there is no overestimating what that can do to a person's memory. Odysseus's first action is to cry. When finally Calypso is forced to allow Odysseus to leave, by order of Hermes, he makes his own raft and leaves at the first possible moment. He is fighting against the will of Poseidon, against the wrath he incurred, all alone. He has lost every single one of his men, every single person who could ever vouch for his identity, in a world where no one could recognize him, is gone. Despite this, he is still fighting to get back to Ithaca.
Odysseus is so utterly human in the text. When he is hosted by Alcinous, Odysseus asks the singer there to recount the story of the Trojan Horse. It's like landing at the doorstep of a stranger who graciously allows you to stay and immediately asking his DJ to play *your own* greatest hits - which in turn only upsets him. This also sets up the dramatic reveal of his identity (I like to imagine him looking around like, you guys remember this one? Yeah that's Me, I pinkie promise. Please give me 4000 drachmae and your best oarsmen (: ).
He recounts the story of how he got so utterly lost on the way back and one thing the Odyssey will tell you, to your face over and over again, is that Odysseus is a big time liar. But for some reason, his tale is so compelling it's hard to remind yourself of that when hearing it for the first time. Some points are so beyond baffling (like striking Polyphemus in the singular eye the poor sod has, and then once to the safety of his boat (which is on open water, the domain of said cyclops's father) loudly announcing his full gods-given name and mailing address, just in case anyone missed who it was) that it's like, yeah that was probably exactly what he did. This is the section of the story where we see Odysseus as he sees himself. This is his own reflection of the actions he made and the troubles that befell him because of it.
Odysseus is such a complex character that one of the epithets he is given is "polytropos", the many-faced or many-sided. Odysseus and his relationship to his own identity, which he can shed and don at any point that's convenient for him, is one of the main reasons I am obsessed with his story. This, and the exploration in an ancient text about what a close relationship with a deity, is something I am constantly thinking about.
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gurugirl · 11 months
Text
A Delicate Thing* (check-in)
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Summary: Y/n wants to know what's going on with her father and Harry doesn't want her to worry about it. But there's a big piece of news she wants to reveal when her worries are finally quelled.
A/n: You guys begged for more of this one and I started this check-in a bit ago but never finished it (until today!). Hope you enjoy! This is a check-in for A Delicate Thing (mafia!harry). 3.8k words.
Warning: 18+ only, smut, talk of violence and murder, anxious feelings
♤♤♤♤
It took a while for Y/n to get comfortable with the idea that she was no longer under the thumb of her father, William, and was now the Boss’s girl. She was treated with respect everywhere she went, was pampered, cared for, and doted upon by Harry.
But as the months turned into a year, she began to understand how awful her life had been before Harry. Her father kept a close watch on her. Told her not to eat too much, to wear certain clothes, to become acquainted with important topics but to act as if she didn’t understand, and worst of all was the way he enjoyed showing her off to his associates. She hated William.
“What are you thinking about,” Harry pulled her into his lap one morning as he sat at the kitchen table and drank his tea.
“I was just… it’s stupid. It’s in the past.”
“It’s not stupid. Don’t say that. Tell me what’s on your mind.”
She put her hands up to the lapel of his suit and sighed before beginning, “Thinking about William. How much I hate him. For everything he did to me. And now he’s bragging about how his daughter is the Boss’s girl… as if he had anything to do with it.”
Harry hummed and had his palm spread out over her thigh, the silk material of her nighty smooth under his hand, “Is he now? I think it’s time for me to give him a lesson once and for all. But only if you want me to. I don’t want to do anything that will have you upset.”
“What will you do?”
“Hmm…” Harry pursed his lips to the side for a moment, “What would you like? Demotion? Public reprimand?”
Shaking her head she kept her eyes on her lover, “Something worse.”
Nodding his head he spoke again, “Have someone break his arms? Cut him off from the family?”
“Maybe that. Cutting him off. I think that would be the worst for him. And I wouldn’t need to see him again.”
“Your wish is my command, my love.”
♤♤♤♤
Harry didn’t like to spend time away from his girl. Before she came along he’d take trips for work and never think a second thought about being away from some chick he might have been seeing. But with Y/n, she was his everything. So he started having her come with him if the trip wasn’t going to be too dangerous. Even if it was only for one night. He didn’t like not having her in his bed at the end of a long day.
And now he was currently away for work and had brought Y/n along with him. They traveled with his underboss, Brad, to visit an associate to come to some kind of agreement. Y/n wasn’t sure of the details, she just knew she’d be staying at the large mansion during the day with security outside while Harry, his underboss, and the associate were meeting somewhere unknown.
Harry was generally a busy man. He came home late sometimes but he always came home and he always called her when he was on his way back to her.
It was nearly 9 pm and she was freshly bathed and wrapped in a thick robe as she watched TV from the bed. Her phone rang with the tone she set for Harry and she leaned over to pluck it up, “Hi,” she smiled widely.
“Hi, baby. I’m on my way back, okay? How was your day?”
“Oh it was good,” she plopped back down into the pile of pillows behind her and sighed, “George’s chef made me a really big brunch and I swam in the pool for a while.”
“Good girl. Sounds nice. Can’t wait to see you, baby.”
Harry was the most attentive and loving man she’d ever met. There wasn’t a day that had gone by since he took her away from William, that she didn’t feel his love for her. And she loved returning that love to him just the same.
When he finally returned to George’s mansion and entered their bedroom, half expecting her to be at the front door when he pulled up, he understood why. She was lying on the bed, naked, her legs open and facing the door (on purpose he supposed). He swiftly closed the door behind him as she grinned at him, “Hi, Harry.”
Harry slid his jacket off and draped it at the foot of the bed and climbed in between her legs, hooking the underside of her knees over his shoulders, “Hi, baby,” he spoke in a whisper before he kissed the inside of her thighs and then got to work right away.
He’d woken her up much in the same way, lapping at her slowly until she was shaking and gasping as quietly as possible, not wanting to let anyone else hear what they were doing.
And just like the morning, she was quickly brought to her end with her palm covering her mouth and her other hand grasping the blankets below.
When he let go of her legs and her body melted into the bed below she lulled her head to the side to watch Harry as he pulled his pants and his briefs off and climbed over her frame. She realized what he was doing immediately so she opened her mouth wide for him, sticking her tongue out before he stuffed his cock into her mouth and pressed down into her throat, her soft lips wrapped around him and she coughed around his tip.
Harry grasped the back of her head up from the pillow underneath and rolled his hips down into her. He’d gotten her used to taking him like this. She was always eager to please him, though, so it didn’t take much work. Soon, she was a natural at opening up her throat and letting him fuck her mouth until she was drooling and gagging happily.
“Baby, fuck… Needed this all day.”
And he really had needed it. He left her in the morning without having had anything in return because he didn’t have time. She was always his priority. He always made sure she got off first, even if that meant he didn’t have time to also get off.
But now they had time. They could sleep in the next day and he could fuck her brains out, almost literally in that moment, with his cock filling her mouth and inching its way into her throat.
When she signaled she needed a breath he pulled out and brushed the hair from her face. She gasped and drew breaths into her lungs for a moment before opening her mouth up and lifting her head to find his cock again.
“Hold on, love… needy girl,” he chuckled as he moved off of her. He was ready to make love to her, feel her warm pussy, and make her come once more with him. Fill her with his come.
He preferred coming inside of her pussy lately. Harry wanted to get his girl pregnant. Wanted to knock her up and really have a claim on her. She was already his, but he dreamed of having her carrying his babies. A good handful of them. And when he brought it up to her a few months ago, she agreed she’d like that too. She wanted to give him as many babies as he wanted.
Harry laid on his back and pulled Y/n over him, “Want to see you fucking yourself on my cock and coming again.”
She loved doing this. When Harry would lie flat on the bed and she’d climb over him, his big cock reaching deep and spreading her apart, her knees down as she leaned back and put her hands over his thighs, sliding over him, giving him a good view of the way she liked to fuck herself on him. Then he’d thumb at her clit and she’d tip over the edge.
She positioned herself over him and lowered onto his dick, her hands on his pecs at first. Harry put his hands behind his head as he watched Y/n work herself down over him. Small, muted moans fell from her lips and Harry groaned at the way she felt around him.
When she’d taken him in and she was seated over him she hissed at how deep he was. It always ached so nicely, “Your tip is pushing into my womb. I can feel it. You’re going to get me pregnant, Harry,” she spoke as she leaned back, putting her palms over his well-muscled thighs and began rolling her hips, her labia parting and spread as his wide cock was stuffed into her.
Harry’s mouth dropped open at the sight and her words. She was filthy sometimes without even trying, “Fuck. You want my come deep inside your womb?” He spoke through gritted teeth, the way she was moving over him felt too good, “Gonna milk my cock of everything I have and get yourself pregnant, baby? Let’s see it. Let me see how you fuck my cock and make me come inside of you, greedy girl.”
She nodded and whined as she continued her work, slipping up and down his long prick, her arousal making a mess of him. Soon, she planted her feet flat onto the bed and began to really move over him, lifting upward and coming down with a wet smack each time.
Harry was panting and grunting, gently shifting his own hips upward out of instinct. He couldn’t help but to respond to her creamy pussy as she squeezed and moved over him.
“Oh god… Harry, please!” She gasped louder than she wanted. Her little plea was something he’d gotten used to during their year together. It meant she wanted to come but needed help.
So Harry swiftly moved his hands from behind his head and sat upward enough that he could reach to rub her clit and give it the kind of pressure she required.
“That’s it, baby. Take what you need. Use my cock, baby.” Harry’s words were tight and breathy as he spoke in between pants.
“I want your come so bad. Want to make you a daddy.”
Harry nearly burst at that moment but he groaned and closed his eyes as he sped up his fingers at her clit. She was nearly there. Just a few more minutes.
When her thighs began to shake and her moans grew louder and her words were incoherent curses and babbles of nonsense he knew she was feeling or orgasm bubble up and begin to spread.
Yes, fuck, yes! Come on baby,” he moaned as he watched her face contort as her jaw dropped and she threw her head back suddenly, a loud call of his name followed by unhindered moans as she came. Her pussy pulsed around him as she got herself off with his cock. Harry groaned and released into her, bucking his hips up to push himself into the hilt and to get as close to her deepest spots inside as possible making her tits softly bounce.
“Fuck, baby!” He growled lowly as his come filled her up, his throbbing dick being squeezed and fucked as he came.
When Harry opened his eyes she was lying over his chest, small puffs of breath coming out as she recovered. Harry rubbed his palms over her back and kissed her forehead, “Love you, sweet girl.”
♤♤♤♤
Now, one of the reasons for Harry going to his associate's home 8 hours away from where they lived was to also discuss the fate of William. Harry had told Y/n he could just cut him off. And he could. That decision was Harry’s. But cutting someone off and ex-communicating them from the family was more difficult than just killing them. There were a few reasons for that but in the end, Harry wanted to make his girl happy. So he needed some advice from his associate who happened to be well acquainted with William from work dealings.
Breakfast was served the in mansion’s large dining room with tall windows and gaudy curtains hung. Everyone was at the table. Harry and his girl, his underboss Brad, the associate George, and his wife Blanca.
And Y/n didn’t know the details of what was going on. Nor did she know the status of her father. Harry kept her in the dark from most of their dealings on purpose. So when she heard her father’s name mentioned her ears perked up and she looked at Harry, who she was sitting on at that moment. He insisted she sit in his lap, which was not out of the ordinary. Most of Harry’s work partners and friends had gotten used to seeing the girl in his lap almost all the time.
“So he’s been a problem lately?” George spoke.
“He’s been a problem for a long time. We’d like to have him cut off from the family but we don’t know if he’s involved in anything else. And since you work with him regularly I thought I’d see if you had heard of anything else he might have his hands in. Money owed, things like that.”
Brad spoke next, “I told the boss we should just make him go away for good but the girl here is William’s daughter.”
George nodded, “I see. That makes this a difficult thing to say then, because I don’t see any way to cut him off with how many people would be after him. If you push him out and send him away without the protection of the family, he’ll be killed either way. But not before probably spilling details about your organization. And mine. He’ll be tortured and he’ll talk. It could compromise a lot of our operations.”
Y/n stayed quiet as she listened to the men talk about her father. She hadn’t realized this was a possibility. That William would need to be killed. It was one thing to have him cut off and she’d never hear from or see him again. But to know that he might be killed? Dead?
“Yes. That is my concern. I’d like a list of all of the relationships and affairs he’s got going on with your organization and then we’ll put something together on our end and make a decision about this,” he squeezed Y/n’s hip to let her know he was still keeping her wishes in mind.
On the road back home, Y/n finally voiced her concern about her father, “So we can’t cut him off or send him away, because that risks everything. But if he stays on in the organization… is there any other option?”
Harry wound their fingers together and pulled her hand up to his mouth and kissed her knuckles, “You mean other than killing him? Sure. But I don’t think you’ll like any of the other options.”
“Tell me.”
“Well, he could just continue working and making money for us. I could keep him away from you but he will be around. Another thing that could work would be to frame him and send him to prison for good. He’d be protected in prison but you’d never have to see him again.”
“But won’t he talk to the police? Tell them he’d been set up?”
“Not if I make it look like a sacrifice of honor. Tell him I’ll raise his title and thus his respect in the organization. He won’t roll on us if he knows he’ll be doing it for the family and that he’ll be earning the respect of everyone.”
“But what would you frame him for? What would put him away in prison forever?”
“Murder.”
♤♤♤♤
Y/n understood that sometimes things in the organization could be violent. People died, went to jail, wound up in hospitals… But to think about her father being framed for a murder he didn’t commit? Could she come to terms with that? Who would have to die? Who would kill the person? She asked all these questions but, as usual, Harry told her not to worry.
But she was worried. And not just about William. She’d gotten news of something else that morning that shocked her. It shouldn’t have but it did. Unfortunately, the lingering questions she had about her father overshadowed everything else that was on her mind.
She hated William. That was true. But she didn’t want him dead. She also didn’t want Harry to get into trouble for anything. And when it came down to it, when she thought about all the outcomes, the worst were always the ones that had Harry in prison and away from her or dead. She actually preferred her dad dead than to have Harry go to prison.
Even though it had been weeks since Harry had met with George, she still hadn’t gotten word about what was going to become of William and she felt anxious. She hated not knowing. She trusted Harry but she needed to know what the plan was. She wanted Harry to tell her everything. It was for a reason that he kept her in the dark about things, but this was personal for her. This specific thing was about her father.
When Harry came home that evening their routine looked much like it normally did. Y/n climbed into his lap and kissed him and he held her and decompressed for a bit before he was ready to finally eat. She heated his food and poured him a glass of wine and they sat together at the dining table and she told him about her day.
But underneath what felt very normal to Harry, Y/n was getting up the nerve to insist he tell her the plan regarding William.
When she put his plate into the dishwasher and refilled her own glass of wine she joined him on the couch and curled into his side and sighed.
Looking up at him she realized there was nothing to worry about. Harry had never been mean to her or made her feel bad for asking questions. He’d either tell her or he wouldn’t. She only hoped she was able to argue her point and make him understand that this was something she deserved to know.
“What’s going on with William? Have you decided anything?”
Harry continued softly rubbing his hand over her hip and her side as he spoke, “I don’t want you to worry about it, love. Okay? Everything is going to be taken care of.”
She knew he’d answer that way. But she was prepared.
“I trust you, Harry. I really do. But this is my father. And this is personal to me. And you tell me not to worry but I do and I can’t help but to worry.”
Harry turned to look at his girl and nodded in thought. He knew it was personal to her. And normally when he told her not to worry about something she’d drop it. But the fact that she was doubling down on this made him pause. He still didn’t want her to know. He wanted to protect her from the awful truth.
“My sweet girl. I know this is personal. But what good will it do for you to know how we’ll go about this? You know our options here and none of them are very nice. I don’t want you to be upset thinking about it and dwelling on it.”
Y/n turned herself to face Harry squarely, “I’m already dwelling on it. I need to know. I deserve to know. I wouldn’t ask you and insist on something that doesn’t somehow involve me. But this does. I need to know.”
Harry smiled and took a deep breath, bringing his hands up to her face, and gently drew her in for a small kiss before he sat back into the couch and cleared his throat, “One of George’s men was involved in something that got him brutally killed. Right now we’ve made it look like William was the murderer. It’s only a matter of time before the police investigate him and find him guilty. And as you may know, your father has been arrested for battery and assault multiple times in the past and so a murder charge wouldn’t surprise anyone looking to find the perpetrator. He will go to prison for a very long time because the murder was quite savage. If the police think William did that, they won’t want him released.”
Y/n nodded and bit her lip before speaking up, “And like you said at George’s, he’ll think he’s doing a favor to the family? He won’t talk?”
“Exactly. We’ll make sure of it. We’ll supply him with plenty of my money on his account for commissary, and bartering. And he’ll have a nice cell by himself. He’ll be treated well but we’ll never have to worry about him again.”
She let out a breath of relief. It was ideal if it worked, “And you’re sure this will work out?”
Harry let out a small laugh and pulled at her, bringing her to his lap, his favorite way of sitting with her, “Baby, it’ll work. If you don’t think we have a cop on our payroll to make sure of it then you must not realize the kind of power I have.”
Y/n smiled and put her arms over his shoulders, “I know how powerful you are. And I am so happy I’m here with you,” she brought her arms down and took Harry’s hands in hers, moving his palms to cover her low tummy, “So happy for everything that’s to come.”
Harry stitched his brows together as he took in her words and her gesture, looking from where she placed his hands to her face, “Are you… is this?”
She nodded quickly, “We’re gonna have a baby.”
He was stunned into silence. He hadn’t expected it. Sure they’d been a little loose with him coming in her during her fertile days, and he knew they were both in their prime and fully fertile so it shouldn’t have been such a surprise. This was what they had wanted.
“You… when did you find out?” Harry cupped her tummy with more intention now, his eyes wide.
“This morning.”
He let out a small breath and grinned from ear to ear, his dimples carving into his cheeks, and pushed Y/n off of his lap and down to the couch as he lifted her dress upward so he could look at her tummy, placing small kisses all around her skin and over her belly button. Y/n squeaked in laughter at the way his curls brushed her soft flesh as he drew his lips over her tummy slowly. She put her hands into his hair and sighed, “I love you, Harry.”
Harry nodded and continued dragging his mouth downward until he lowered her panties and looked up at her from between her legs, “I love you too, baby. Now let’s celebrate.”
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whalesforhands · 7 months
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reunited under the sun
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“Aren’t you worried, Suguru?” Your head is upon his shoulder as you whisper those words into the air, the stale quietness reneging all of you to wait with bated breaths.
“He’s done well enough to this point.” Suguru’s hand is holding yours, lightly squeezing in efforts to calm you down. “I’m more proud of him than anything right now.”
“I guess I have to give that annoyance credit for that.” Nanami’s laying his head back as he leans against the wall, Haibara slapping him on the arm. “Kento!!! You can’t call him that when he’s been working so hard up to this point!!”
Nanami only grunts as Haibara attempts to lighten up his close friend’s moody self.
Time passes, ticks, runs by without a care in the world. The haze of the blue summer surrounding you all as the light chitter of Yaga talking to Haibara and Nanami fill your ears, Suguru’s light humming bringing you to a state gratified alleviation.
“I can’t wait to see him.”
“Haha, it has been close to 14 years since you last saw him, after-all.” Suguru’s leaning down to press a kiss to your forehead to finish off his sentence.
“I hope he’s not upset once he realizes where—“
“He’s here!” It’s Riko who sounds it out, Kuroi’s eyes smile reaching her eyes as she watches her young lady excitedly watch the glow, the formation and transportation of his soul manifest.
There’s a flash of shining light before Gojo Satoru appears directly in front of bench seats. Younger, and more youthful in appearance as he shakes his head, blinking.
“Satoru!” There’s a call of his name before he feels a someone quite literally crash into him, he stumbles slightly as he feels the object loop their arms around him, looking down only to be met with your sparking eyes.
“You…” He stares at you, as if in disbelief, hands trembling as they shakily, unsteadily land upon your waist, as if trying to return your embrace before his eyes flicker up to see Suguru, said boy’s hand raised in greeting as the black-haired sorcerer smiles at him.
“Yo,” There’s a decisive pause before he breaks into a wide grin, the sunlight enveloping him in the most gorgeous shimmer of its rays. “Satoru!”
“We finally meet again.”
——
“Satisfaction… I think I could’ve gone out with no regrets if you both were there too.” His face is serious, no longer shy to confess his true feelings, no longer hesitant to reveal his thoughts.
He’s changed, yet still all the same as his head rests upon your lap, letting your hands comb through his shorter hair, fingers lightly, comfortingly scratching his scalp as you close your eyes in quiet bliss. The hold he has on Suguru’s hand refuses to relent after his yearning for all these years, the grip intimate, familiar as he finally closes his eyes.
“Hmm.” Suguru’s blushing as he looks down at him with a bashful smile. “That’s embarrassing to say.”
“So what?” Satoru’s dismissive as he feels you take off the sunglasses upon his face, his eyes still closed as he chats and waves off a gruntled Nanami, the cheers of Haibara’s voice filling his ears as the muffled conversations of Riko, Kuroi and Yaga together nearby further placate his soul.
“I went too long without saying it, so—“
“So you don’t want anymore regrets, huh?” Suguru easily finishes his sentences for him, remembering Gojo going on and on with Yaga about how he thought sorcerers would always die with regrets.
Gojo Satoru goes quiet.
“Yea.” He’s finally smiling as he turns onto his side to bury his face into your navel, face now free to do so since you took the hindrance off his face. He probably needs them later, but still. Let him enjoy this moment—
“Oh, Satoru, you can open your eyes now.” Huh…? What is Suguru saying?
Won’t it hurt? He’s sure you’re all aware of how his Six Eyes can overwhelm—
“We promise.” Your hand caresses his cheek, coaxing him as Suguru’s hand gently squeezing in comfort as Gojo keeps them shut. “You won’t be in pain anymore.”
He cracks them open without a moment’s more of doubt, immediately jumping up from your lap when he notices that he isn’t seeing everything down to its molecular level, his sight now normal, less daunting, more akin to the views he could see when he was a mere child.
The world is more beautiful than he thought. Was there always this much colour? This level of vivid imagery? Thin, wispy clouds in the sky, skies so blue, summer scents that linger in his nose even now, the aroma of nostalgia that courses through his body. The blue is clearer now than it ever was, in this muggy mid-afternoon where it’s all come together.
Down below at the ground upon which he now stood, he noticed that the sun casted all your shadows as one.
“Is there anything you want to do now?” The radiance of your grin is highlighted now that he can finally go without his sunglasses, his hand moving forward to hold your cheek as you nuzzle back into his hand in response.
Yet again, it takes him barely a moment to make a choice.
“Shaved ice.”
previous masterlist END
Notes:
“Can I have a kiss?” Gojo’s staring right at the both of you as Suguru breaks into laughter, your shy face suddenly in sight as you nearly drop your frozen treat.
Suguru soon recovers, wiping at a tear from the corner of his eye as he steadies his own shaved ice in his hand. “S-sorry, Satoru— Pfft! I didn’t—“
He’s heaving with laughter as a bashful hand is placed over your mouth to mask your surprise. “I didn’t expect you to ask that directly, hahahah!”
“I-I’m being serious here!” After so long, it’s definitely a sight to see Gojo Satoru’s blushing face once more. You shake your head as you see Satoru throwing light punches at a hunched over Suguru’s shoulder, who was still absolutely losing it as you make your way towards the pouting boy.
You tap on his shoulder, making him turn towards you before you tiptoe, your hand gently dragging him down with the collar of his uniform jacket, before pressing a chaste kiss to the corner of his lips.
When you release, his eyes are absolutely awestruck, before you feel Suguru behind your back, sandwiching you between the both of them as you witness him administer a tender kiss to the other corner of Gojo’s lips.
Beautiful blue is absolutely stunned as he stands there, before a quiet whisper is breathed out with the fragrant summer breeze, under the warm sun where three souls have finally reunited eternally in the embrace of each other.
“I didn’t say you both could stop.”
(“We just gotta wait a little longer for Shoko, right?”
Gojo’s arm is winding itself around both your and Geto’s shoulders as he interrupts your ongoing conversations about what shaved ice flavour everyone would like.
“I don’t mind waiting if I have all of you.”
“So cheesy.”
“Yea, too much so.”
Satoru’s pouting as he tries to immediately retract his hands, before he feels them being held in place by both of yours.
“Hmph! At least make it more obvious you guys like it when I’m being honest!” He’s huffing, filling his cheeks with air as he pouts.
There’s only the sound of your combined laughters filling his ears now.)
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ewanmitchellcrumbs · 6 months
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Best Intentions - Chapter Three
Pairing: Tom Bennett (World on Fire) x f!reader Warnings: Angst. Smut. Mentions of shell shock/PTSD. Word count: ~3.9k
Summary: She deals with an unexpected visit and Lois forces her to take action. Final part. Series masterlist.
Author's note: I don't have a tag list. Please follow @fics-by-ewanmitchellcrumbs and turn on post notifications. Community labels are for cops.
She is inconsolable when she gets home, having walked the short distance from the wall back to her house, vision blurred with tears.
Her mum rises from the kitchen table, rushing to her and pulling her into a tight hug the moment she sees the state she’s in.
“Oh, love,” she coos, stroking her hair, “he’s a fool to have upset you like that.”
“He’s not a fool, Mum,” she sobs, snotty nosed and shaking, into the wool of her cardigan, “I couldn’t say yes, but that doesn’t mean I don’t love him.”
She loves Tom. She’s in love with Tom.
Deep down, she knows she’s probably felt that way all along, yet the admission shocks her all the same.
She feels numb for the rest of the evening, though grateful for the soothing reassurance of her mum. If nothing else, her endless cups of tea give her something warm to wrap her hands around, something to focus on besides how hurt Tom had looked when she’d said no to him.
It was the right thing to do, she knows this, they aren’t ready for such an enormous commitment, but she can’t help but wonder if making the right choice was meant to make it feel like her heart was being torn in two.
Puffy eyed and miserable when she awakens the next day, her mum offers to give her the day off from the shop. Wearily, she shakes her head, eager to carry on as normal.
“If I stop at home, I’ll drive myself mad thinking about it all. I just wanna get on.”
Her mum gives her hand a reassuring squeeze and a “whatever you think is best, love”.
Theoretically, the shop should take her mind off things, yet there are reminders of Tom in everything. As she’s restocking the sweet jars, her heart lurches in her chest when she gets to the sherbet straws, thinking about how their fingers would brush against each other when they;d share a bag. They were Tom’s favourites. 
When a man comes in to buy a cigarette, she rolls it around in her fingers after taking it from the shelf. It’s Tom’s brand. She’d always hated the way the smell of the smoke would stick to his hair and clothes. Now, the thought that she may never breathe in the stale scent of tobacco on his jacket when he pulls her in for a hug makes her eyes well up with tears, and she has to sniffle them away before turning back to the till to take payment.
Then there is the more obvious reminder living upstairs; Lois. As if summoned by the thought of her, she appears from the back, Vera nestled against her hip.
“You and Tom left in a hurry on Saturday, thought you’d both stick around after for a drink,” she says, bouncing the toddler gently in her arms.
“Oh,” she says, feeling anxiety gnaw at her insides, as her skin heats up with a mixture of shame and embarrassment, not wanting to reveal to Lois what’s happened between her and Tom. It still feels too raw to talk about. “Yeah, sorry, wasn’t feeling well. You and Connie sounded great though!”
She offers a smile that she hopes looks sincere and Lois looks at her with sympathy in her big, blue eyes.
“You mentioned the other day you were feeling a bit tired, everything okay?”
She swallows, nodding her head, just wanting the conversation to be over.
Her and Tom have the same eyes.
It’s excruciating to look at her. “Yeah, yeah, I’m fine now. Run ragged by the shop, you know how it is.”
Lois readjusts Vera against her hip, running a hand over her soft curls, before looking back up. “Well, if you find time to get away tomorrow, I’ve asked Tom to pop round on his dinner break. Been ages since I’ve caught up with him, would be nice to see you too, even if you can only manage time for a cuppa.”
She feels her throat run dry at this. If Lois has invited Tom round then that means he’ll have to come to the shop. She’ll have to see him. She isn’t ready.
She can feel a void opening in the pit of her stomach, dread prickling her skin. “Maybe..” she offers quietly, and is grateful that at that moment Vera starts to fuss, drawing Lois’ attention away from her.
“Better get this one back upstairs anyway,” Lois says, distractedly, “maybe see you tomorrow!”
She breathes a sigh of relief when she disappears into the back and up the stairs again, resting her elbows on the counter and putting her head in her hands.
Tom is going to be at the shop tomorrow. What on earth will I say to him?
Nerves flutter in her belly all morning the next day, her heart racing so fast she is sure that every customer she serves must be able to hear it. More than once her hands fumble when giving someone their change, sending coins spilling across the counter.
If it wouldn’t earn her a stern telling off from her mum, she’d close up for the day and go home, so that she wouldn’t have to see Tom when he inevitably arrives.
She has a hundred different things she wants to say to him; I didn’t mean to hurt you. I’m so bloody angry with you. I love you.
None of them seem appropriate.
It’s precisely noon when the bell above the shop door tinkles and she looks up from the stamps she’s sorting, met with the intense stare of Tom.
He’s on time. He’s never on time for anything. She feels her hands tremble, her breathing unsteady as she tries to organise her thoughts into something coherent. She curses herself, she’s wasted all morning deciding what to say and still has nothing.
Her hesitation is more than enough for Tom apparently, as he huffs, mouth twisting into a sneer, before striding into the back and up the stairs to the flat.
Bowing her head she feels her throat tighten, lips pulling downwards with the effort not to burst into tears. In all the years she’d known Tom, seeing him had never made her feel so rotten. She swipes angrily at her nose, inhaling a deep shaky breath before busying herself with organising what’s left of the day’s papers.
An hour later, Tom reappears in the doorway that leads towards the back, as she’s standing counting up the till drawer. Up close she can see the haunted look in his eyes, the dark bags underneath them. The night terrors are clearly as bad as ever, he doesn’t look like he’s sleeping properly. She wants nothing more than to go to him, pull him into a hug and comfort him, but can’t stand the thought of him pushing her away if she tries.
Once more she realises she’s staring at him without saying anything, he’s clearly waiting for her to make the first move, and she hasn’t. 
His eyes narrow in anger, and he breezes past her, muttering an irritated “piss off” as he goes.
The casualness of his insolence towards her turns her sorrow into anger, which she feels boil up inside her, erupting as she shouts “no, you piss off!” after him.
How dare he?! After everything, that’s all he has to say to me.
But it’s too late. The door to the shop is already closed. Tom’s gone.
Her sob catches in her throat, and before she’s able to stop it, a piteous wail leaves her, which she attempts to muffle with the palm of her hand. Hot tears roll down her cheeks, the painful twisting in her chest from Sunday returning in earnest.
“Hey, hey,” comes a gentle voice from behind her. The slender arms of Lois wrap around her, pulling her into a warm hug. “What’s all this?”
There’s no use lying to her now, not when Lois has seen her like this.
“It’s Tom,” she says, pulling away slowly, voice thick from crying, “we’ve been seeing each other.”
Lois chuckles quietly. “Well, I knew that, it’s not exactly a secret. What’s he done?”
She closes her eyes briefly, feeling shame wash over her. Would Lois be angry if she told her she’d said no to Tom’s proposal?
“He proposed to me, I said no,” she blurts, “but it’s not because I don’t love him! I still want to be with him, we’ve just never made it official, and I don’t want to rush.”
Lois goes quiet for a moment, her eyes widening in obvious shock at what she’d revealed. “Wow…Tom proposed?” Her eyebrows raise, and they stand in silence as she takes in the revelation, thinking about what to say next.
Chewing her lip, Lois nods and their eyes meet before she speaks again. “So, what did Tom say exactly?”
“Not much, he finished with me,” she says miserably.
“You told him you love him and he finished with you?!” She asks, her mouth agape.
“Well…no…I’ve never actually told him I love him…” she admits, averting her gaze, feeling her face grow hot.
“Well then maybe you should start with that?” Lois suggests.
“I can’t, Lois!” She cries, “He’s not been the same since he came home, you know he hasn’t. He needs to get help.”
“Yeah, he does,” Lois agrees, “but that’s not your job to do. It’s yours to be there for him, to let him know it’s not him you’re saying no to. He needs you, anyone can see that.”
She knows Lois is right. Tom has likely seen her rejection as a rejection of her wanting to be with him, thinking he’s too broken, when that is the furthest thing from the truth. The state he was in when he came to the shop earlier is proof of the fact that he just needs her to be there for him, but she has been too caught up in her own feelings to realise his. 
“Yeah, you’re right”, she says, wiping her eyes, “I need to speak to him. I’ll go to the garage tomorrow.”
“Or you could go tonight?” Lois suggests, “He doesn’t finish for another half hour after the shop closes, so you can catch him before he goes home.”
“Oh, Lois, I look a mess, he can’t see me like this–” she tries to protest, but is cut off.
“Yes, he can! Let him see you’re as upset by this as he is. He needs to know you care.”
She purses her lips. Lois is right. No use in putting it off. The longer she leaves it, the harder it’ll be.
Checking her face in her compact as she stands outside of the garage, she’s grateful that her tears haven’t done too much damage to her mascara. Only the faintest rim of red around her eyes suggests that she’d ever been upset.
The shutter is halfway down, suggesting that Tom is close to finishing up for the day. His feet are the only pair she sees beneath. Drawing in a steading breath, she ducks through the gap, righting herself as Tom regards her with a furrowed brow and widened eyes; an apparent mixture of surprise and anger.
“What are you doing here?” He asks sullenly.
She holds up her hands in mock surrender, attempting to keep her tone even, despite the way her voice wobbles. “Please, Tom, I’m not here to argue. I just wanna talk to you.”
“Got nothin’ to say,” he sniffs, wiping his hands on a rag and closing the bonnet of the sleek black motorcar he’s been working on.
“But I have,” she pleads, “so please just hear me out.”
She spots his jaw tick in annoyance, but he nods all the same, remaining silent, so she presses on.
“I need you to know that when I said no I wasn’t saying no to you, to us, just the proposal. I don’t think we’re ready.”
Tom rolls his eyes, throwing the rag down, sniffing before he replies. “Yeah, I get it, you wouldn’t wanna be stuck with someone that’s not right in the head.”
“Don’t say that,” she says sadly, a dull ache forming in her chest. “You’ve been through so much, Tommy, but you’ll get through it and I’ll be with you every step of the way, because I love you.”
“You what?” He asks quickly, head snapping up to look at her.
Her breath catches in her throat, her heart pounding in her chest.
Oh god. What if he doesn’t say it back? What if he tells her to go away and never speak to him again?
“I–I love you,” she stammers, feeling as though her vulnerability will swallow her whole.
“Say it again,” Tom says lowly, stepping towards her.
He’s so close she can smell the motor oil that clings to his skin. It makes the hairs on the back of her neck stand up.
“I love you,” she repeats with more confidence, gazing up at him.
In one swift movement, he grabs the back of her neck, pulling her to him and crushing his lips against hers. 
It’s not the four little words she’d expected in return, but the action expresses everything he needs to say.
I love you too.
She melts into it, kissing him back with equal fervour. His kiss is hungry, filled with desperation, yet it feels like coming home after a long journey. He tastes of tobacco and spearmint. She hadn’t realised how much she’d missed the pillowy softness of his mouth until it’s moving against her own. Absent-mindedly, her arms wrap around his shoulders, as Tom’s free hand grips her waist.
When they break for air, he presses his forehead against hers, breathing heavily.
“God, I missed you,” he whispers.
She barely has time to tell him she’s missed him too before he’s kissing her again, pulling the shutter all the way closed and maneuvering her backwards towards the car he’s been working on, yanking open the back door.
Bracing her palms against his chest, she pulls back slightly, apprehension at odds with the desire she feels. “We can’t do that here, that’s a customer’s car! What if we get caught?”
Tom shrugs. “Shutter’s down, and I’ve not fucked you for ages. Come on, no one will catch us.”
She giggles, taking in the sight of his lust-widened pupils and kiss-swollen lips. It sends a needy throb straight to her core, and she grabs him by the front of his overalls, pulling him back to her once more.
His tongue sweeps against hers, as he lays her down in the cramped confines of the back seat before climbing on top of her. His tall frame means he has to keep one knee pressed between her leg and the back of the seat, and the other on the floor.
“You sure there’s room?” She purrs playfully, brushing her lips against his neck.
“I’ll fucking make room,” he hisses, awkwardly shrugging out of his overalls, causing her to laugh.
“Something funny?” He mutters darkly, pushing his hand beneath her skirt, his fingers toying with the gusset of her knickers, before slipping inside the material.
She gasps as his digits press through the wetness of her folds, bucking against his hand. It’s been so long since she felt his touch like this that his hands upon her skin feel like a brand. “Tommy…” is all she’s able to whimper.
He smirks. “That’s what I thought,” he says cockily, his words punctuated by the wet sounds of his fingertips moving through the slick of her arousal. “This all for me?”
“Y–yeah,” she breathes out, and he withdraws his hand, making her whine.
“Don’t wanna let it go to waste,” he tells her, pushing his overalls further down, along with his briefs.
She bites her lower lip, watching him stroke the length of his erection, ruddy and shiny with arousal at its tip.
His eyebrows raise, lips parting as a look of realisation flashes across his features. “I haven’t got a sheath..”
“Oh, Tommy!” She cries out in frustration.
He frowns, his tone becoming defensive. “Well, sorry, why would I keep any here? Not like I make a habit of shagging in the garage, is it?”
She feels light headed with the intensity of her need for him. She isn’t sure she can wait for them to get back to his flat. Desire is the only thing fuelling her in this moment, alongside the words that leave her mouth. “Just pull out then.”
Tom’s eyes widen, a grin spreading across his face. “If you say so.”
He leans over her, pulling her underwear to one side, and guiding himself to her entrance. They groan in unison as he pushes forward, stretching her open on his length.
The feeling of being so intimate with him again after being apart is divine all by itself, however, being able to feel him fully without a barrier to separate them has her inner walls fluttering around him as he breaches her to the hilt.
“Jesus christ,” is all he’s able to grit out as he stills, allowing them both to adjust to the sensation.
“Please…please move,” she mewls desperately.
Tom pulls his hips back, before driving forward, the repeated motion causing the car to squeak and rock, yet it barely registers to her. Her only focus is the feeling of him inside of her, the way that every thrust brushes against a spot inside of her that makes her abdomen tighten like a coil.
“I don’t think I’m gonna last,” Tom pants above her, fogging the windows up, “you feel too bloody good.”
“Not yet,” she whispers breathlessly, the coil in her belly almost at its breaking point, “‘m so close…”
Tom groans, snaking a hand between them, fingers reaching beneath her knicker elastic to toy with her pearl in tandem with each deep thrust.
Warmth spreads through her, as she writhes beneath him, the pressure within her building until it finally gives way and she tightens around him with a wanton moan.
“Shitshitfuck–” Tom groans, withdrawing from her and spilling white hot ropes of spend across her thighs with quick, sure strokes.
He hovers over her for a few moments longer, simply looking into her eyes and stroking her hair. She’s certain that at this point right now she’s never felt more in love with him. It feels good to have him back. Her Tommy.
He helps her out of the car, careful not to stain the upholstery and gets her cleaned up. 
Finally, he breaks the silence, turning to her as they straighten up their clothes. “So what should I do with it? The ring, I mean. I can get a diamond put in, I–”
“It’s perfect, as it is,” she reassures him, cupping his face in her hands, “keep it for now. Ask me again when we’re ready.”
“Oh, I definitely will,” he responds, bumping her nose with his.
Over the next six months their relationship blossoms, with her spending more and more time at Tom’s flat. No longer “just mates”, they proudly hold hands as they walk down the street together. Shared lunch breaks are spent on their wall, passing a bag of sherbet straws back and forth.
Tom’s night terrors lessen. Over time he comes to accept that it would be good to talk to someone. It’s still a touchy subject for him, and he refuses to use the term shell shock because of its association with Douglas. Not wanting to explore anything as extreme as electric shock therapy, he opts to see a doctor who has adopted psychotherapy as a means of treatment.
With each session, he looks a little lighter, though still haunted by the memories of what he has endured in combat, the load becomes more bearable to manage, and her heart feels as though it could burst with pride for him.
It’s New Year’s Eve, as they stand on the rain-dampened pavement outside of the Ducie Arms. Tom sways unsteadily on his feet, six pints deep, as they look up at the sky, the colourful crackle of fireworks overhead heralding in a brand new year. 
He pulls her in for a sloppy kiss, and she happily reciprocates, despite the lingering taste of lager upon his lips. His eyes are glassy as he pulls the ring box from his jacket pocket, his words slurred.
“Will you–”
She shakes her head, placing her hand over his, pushing it gently back towards his pocket.
“Ask me when you’re sober.”
It feels terrible to reject him a second time, yet she knows to get engaged when they’re both not in full control of their actions would be a mistake.
Thankfully, in his drunken state he doesn’t seem to mind, simply nodding and pocketing the ring box once more.
When he wakes up the next morning, bleary eyed and complaining he has a headache, he has no memory of most of the previous evening, and she cannot help the pang of disappointment she feels.
Another six months pass, and Tom continues to improve. His night terrors happen irregularly and he has started to fill out again, not quite as bony as he was when he first returned to Longsight. He looks healthy, happy. It fills her with warmth to see him recovering.
Yet there is a constant nagging in the back of her mind. She has knocked Tom back twice now, what if he never asks again?
Vera is now walking and talking, and, needing more space, Lois moves out of the flat above the shop, having found a little terraced house with a garden for her to play in.
Her and Tom decide to take the step of occupying the space. Tom gives up his flat, and the two move in together. They spend most of their time together anyway, so it makes sense.
It’s their moving in day, and she silently curses Tom for being too tight fisted to pay a removal man to do this for them, as they carry his old sofa up the stairs.
She feels clammy with sweat by the time they place it heavily down in their empty living room. Huffing with relief, she sits down, wanting to take a breather before they carry anything else up. She wipes her brow, looking around the space with a slight smile on her face.
A fresh start for both of them. A place to call theirs. A space to create memories.
She is snapped out of her reverie by Tom calling her name.
“I’m not moving anything else until I’ve–”
She freezes, mouth agape as she turns her head and sees Tom on one knee before her, ring box open in his hand.
“Thought now felt like the right time,” he says, “so will you?”
“I’m all sweaty,” she says bashfully.
“You’ve never looked better. My wife, working hard to put all of our old shit in our flat. So how about it?” He asks, cocking his head.
Her heart flutters. He’s right, there will never be a more perfect moment than this.
“Yes,” she breathes, allowing him to slip the simple gold band onto her ring finger.
He leans in pressing his lips to hers and she smiles into it, running her fingers through his hair as he pulls away again, a mischievous glint in his eye.
“Still mates though, yeah?” He whispers.
She giggles. “Always.”
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infectedollysworld · 4 months
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— ꒰‧⁺ DESERVING?.. ☁️ *ೃ༄
•ଓ.° [ <REDACTED> x GN!reader ] [ FLUFF ] [ SFW ]
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•ଓ.° baby is stiff! he looks like he’s in need of a massage, (posture is outrageous.) so you’re happy to give one to them!
[ REN BELONGS TO @14dayswithyou !!! ]
[ REVERSE comfort!! ] [ 18+ ] [ not proofread! per usual ]
———————————————————
you lay on your boyfriend's bed as you wait for them to detach from their computer.
you eye him once more as you speak up for what seems to be the hundredth time,
“babe.” you speak as deeply as possible, serious and concerned. you couldn't help it! you watched him hunch over his desk for a solid four hours without taking any break! it was worrying to see them strain themself so much without rest.
the man glances at you repeatedly —practically every two seconds— to which he’s met with the same disappointed look on your face every single time.
“ren, you need a break! im serious!” you exclaim, a hint of distress in your tone as you raise your voice slightly.
frowning, you watch as he /finally/ slips his hand underneath the screen. a button clicks as the display goes dark.
he rests his head on the back of his seat and takes a deep breath, pausing for a moment.
eyes on your lover, you hope they aren't upset with you.. it was just, the sight of him being hunched over for so long without stretching or standing worried you. the overall discomfort seemed to be taking a toll on him—
practically snapping you out of your thoughts, they use their arms to push themself upward. finally standing on his feet, just like you’d asked.
you feel a sense of relief at the sight.
he turns to face you with an unreadable expression.
“‘m sorry love.. i was so distracted-” he speaks, gradually stepping closer to you, their eyes focused on yours. “— forgive me?” he pleads, taking notice of your furrowed brows. you couldn't be upset. he did as you asked, even if you had to question them several times.
“forgiven.. now, sit honey,” you speak, patting the cushion beside you.
calmly, they sit down, reading your expression to see if you'd really meant your forgiveness.
untangling yourself from the sheets beneath you, you expose your legs and toss them on each side of your lover, straddling him. his breath gets caught in his throat at the sight of you, the pressure finally dropping in his lap.
“all your pleas jus’ for you to have me sit again? you sure missed me, hm?” he teases, hands slowly sliding up and down your thighs.
“of course..” you coo, gliding one hand up his tattooed arm, finally relaxing it on his shoulder. your other hand rests against their face. slightly moving their bangs out of the way, you reveal the glossy eyes underneath. “do you know how long you've been sitting?” you ask, noticing how his eye bags have suddenly grown darker.
“mmm.. dunno.” they hum, leaning into your touch.
suddenly, your warm hands find their way towards his neck, slightly rubbing circles around his collarbones with your thumbs. <REDACTED> closes his eyes at the relaxing touch, hands resting on both of your hips, pressing you even further down on their lap.
“feel good?” you whisper, not wanting to disrupt his peace.
“mhhmm..” he drifts off, head leaning forward a bit.
“shh..” you hush, “let me take care of you.”
placing a kiss on his forehead, you continue to run your hands gently up and down his neck, applying slight pressure.
over time, the tension being placed on his upper half begins to get more intense as you dig your palms into circular motions. the more you feel around, you can definitely determine the most tense areas.
<REDACTED> unexpectedly inhales sharply, hissing as you place even more pressure on his tense neck.
“you okay?” you ask, slightly removing your hands.
realization hits as their eyes shoot open. he practically snatches your wrist back with a loose grip. “‘m f-fine.. keep going angel..” he huffs, placing your hands back onto his tender skin.
“it feels good, yeah?” you smile, applying slight force once more.
“so good.. don’t stop, please.”
they relax into your gentle touch once more, surrounding themself in your scent.
the aroma and situation suddenly becomes overstimulating..
he swiftly envelopes you in a hug. his face hidden away in your neck as his eyes begins to sting. tears begin to form as the realization of the scenario sets in. how could he get so lucky?
“so good to me.. i don’t deserve it, angel.”
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impyssadobsessions · 2 years
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DP x DC big brother au
Where Danny is a child prodigy of the League of assassins on his way to his first mission. Around that time Damian (who is Danny's replacement/ bodyguard) is like, below 5 y/o and not doing too well, too soft they say. They plan to kill him, so Danny thinks if they didn't have their prodigy heir then they HAVE to keep Damian alive as their next kin. So he did, he staged his own death and sob story his way into an orphanage where the Fenton's take him.
Years later, on a quiet night or when he's patching up his own wounds, sometimes he wonders how his little Dami is doing. If he is still as soft and attention hungry as he use to.
Or if they killed the child inside him and turn him into someone he fears.
Awww yes~ I would love to see something like this. Just Danny curious about Damian. Wonder how he would meet him then. Just probably circumstances that causes Danny to end up in gotham... OH OR WHAT IF... Danny's identity gets revealed and it goes viral after a fight. Danny has to hide because GIW and now league.. but also someone else caught wind. Damian seeing it from watching Tim showing the video to someone else. Damian's breath hitches. Maybe he feel bitter about being left behind, about his brother leaving him.. Same time he wants to confront him, make sure its him. Thus turns into a three way if not four/five track down of Danny Phantom. Fenton parents either helping Jazz, Sam, n Tuck. Or they're all HE TOOK OVER OUR SON. Maybe Vlad too. LOL my brain went brrrr for a moment. But this could just be simple, Danny gets job in arkham asylum and runs into Dami. Damian confronting him later.. or maybe giving him a cold shoulder at first. But melts because Danny still treats him the same.. and then finally pesters an answer as to why Danny left. Danny saying that he wanted Dami to live. LOL funny if dick gets a little jealous of danny able to step in and just make dami grin. =w= big brother rivalry. Same time both like happy to have each other looking out for their sibling. Plus can't hate another man that loves puns =w=b Dick tries to big brother Danny too. Danny just so happy to see his brother.. but same time super secretive about his past. Damian upset and pries into it. Eventually finding out Danny, despite successfully leaving the league still ended up dealing with life n death. Danny not wanting pity or dami to worry always brushes it off but its more obvious as days go by that his past bothers him more than he says it does.
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flightfoot · 4 months
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i think you rec fics if i'm wrong i'm so sorry. any fluffy fics with all 4 lovesquare sides? - though just ladynoir/adrienette would work too.
Yep I give those recs! This is actually one of the tricker cases, because on the one hand there's a lot of them and on the other hand they're interwoven with a lot of other things and often don't have specific tags to search with, so I'll see what I can do. I'm mostly just looking for fluff fics that have more than one side of the Lovesquare represented.
I Put A Spell On You by dazaimaru
Friday, October 25. 6 days until Halloween. It’s their first high school Halloween dance, and Marinette and Adrien are ready to throw on some non-superhero costumes for once--that is, until an akumatized witch spoils the party and threatens to reveal what lies underneath everyone’s disguise. With Hawkmoth taking full advantage of the spooky season, the days leading up to Halloween are certainly going to be thrilling! Especially considering Marinette’s growing feelings for a certain black cat…
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Fate, Destiny... A Hamster by @mostmagical
After finally moving into his very first apartment per Ladybug’s suggestion, Adrien stumbles upon something no movie or TV show could have ever prepared him for: someone else's hamster. At least now there’s an excuse to talk to the new neighbor. (Adrinette Never Met AU)
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Villainous Matchmaking by @nedjsmlfavs
When Chat Noir is tragically unable to attend an event with Ladybug, the mayor calls in a favor from a designer ‘friend’. Now she’s attending in style, on the arm of the hottest male model in Paris. Which would be fine if it weren’t for one, tiny issue: Paris’ favorite domestic terrorist now knows how Ladybug feels about his son. This leads him to his greatest plan yet, using Ladybug’s extremely obvious crush on Adrien Agreste to akumatize Chat Noir. A Ladrien/“platonic” Ladynoir fic
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Painted Canvas by @wehadabondingmoment
And then, Adrien would send her a selfie, acting as if he was some secret agent trying to not get caught and he was so ridiculous that Marinette’s heart ached at the thought of being away from him. Hushed phone calls, his voice sounding like honey; in moments like these, she wasn’t Ladybug, only a teenage girl drunk on love. Or: Adrien and Marinette are soulmates and it still takes them years until they finally meet. Also fencing.
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Professeure (of your love) by @mostmagical
“We should do it.” Her voice came out in a screech. “What?” “Just a fake wedding at graduation,” he said, like it wasn’t completely crazy. . . After ages of letting Paris believe their beloved superheroes are married and in love, Marinette's superhero partner turned fellow teacher wants to apply the same logic to their civilian lives and put on a fake wedding for their students. Only problem is, for Marinette, the being in love part is very much not an act.
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From School Bells to Wedding Bells by @linnieluna
When the superhero duo takes on another exhausting fight against an akuma, Chat Noir does what he never hesitates to do and takes a hit for his partner. The problem being: neither of them knew what power the akuma possessed. That is... until he is transported into the future. More specifically, to his friend Marinette's wedding.
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The Power of Love by @nedjsmlfavs
In which Ladybug announces that she’s pregnant via her long term boyfriend and Chat Noir is a supportive partner. After all, he can hardly be upset when he’s been dating his Princess for years! A different take on the show’s tagline (“The Power of Love Always so Strong”) written for Valentine’s day 2023.
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The Rules of Engagement by underworkedoverwhelmed
When tragedy sends Adrien Agreste racing back to Paris to run his father’s fashion house, Marinette doesn’t expect much from her very new, very rich boss. At least not until she is set up on a blind date with a very familiar face. Much to her surprise, Adrien Agreste was hiding far more secrets behind his stoic business-like mask of temporary CEO. Maybe as many secrets as she had been trying to hide for years. As they grow closer, Marinette fears her mask isn’t nearly as foolproof. Day after day, it gets harder for her to keep all her secrets well hidden from the surprisingly sweet man who insisted on staying by her side as often as possible. Only she couldn’t afford to fail. Not when her biggest secret could spell the end of the job she’d dreamed about for years.
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Dreams of You by @chocoluckchipz
Dreams had long been his only escape. Dreams of Ladybug, the girl who had always been there for him. If only in his dreams. And only while she was also sleeping. Because with the first rays of sunshine gliding over her skin, with the first fluttering of her eyelashes, from the moment she opened her eyes in the morning, memories of Adrien would vanish from her mind. She would go on living her life. He would always be the only one who remembered. At least until they meet in the real world and fall in love all over again, something that would’ve been easier to do if Adrien wasn't a prisoner in his own home.
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Tell Me Why You Love Me by @linnieluna
“Anyway, that piece of paper contains the name of this texting app. It’s completely anonymous, so you can download it, make your account with no attachments to your personal life, and communicate with me outside our suits. I included my username on the paper, too, so you can add me once you’re done." Her partner skimmed through the words on the paper and nodded his head. “Brilliant as always, M’lady. I’m surprised we didn’t figure this out sooner within our superhero careers.” “Yeah, it would’ve been nice to have this before, but hey, better late than never. Make sure not to have your phone screen on the messages if you’re going to leave it somewhere. We don’t want anyone reading our texts. Also, this is for emergencies only. No jokes or puns. I can only deal with you for so long.” “I don’t know if I can agree to that last one,” he said. Now 22 and working full-time, Marinette and Adrien seem to be getting busier and busier, which means fewer opportunities to keep track of akumas and show up on time. With the idea of using a messaging app to communicate with each other without revealing their identities, their lives immediately grew to be easier... until it wasn't.
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Soul Searching by LiquefiedStars
Marinette was devastated when her soulmate turned out to be Adrien Agreste and not her sweet, loving partner Chat Noir. Despite their misunderstandings, she is willing to give Adrien a chance, even if he doesn’t seem all that interested in her. After all, they are soulmates and the universe says they are meant to be together. A Soulmate AU.
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Love is Blind by @jennagrinsoverml
Tired of all of his potential girlfriends being blinded by his face, his fame and his name, Adrien takes a chance to compete on Love Is Blind: France, where he hopes that dating without seeing each other—or learning each other’s names—will finally help him to be lucky in love. What will he do when he realizes that his Lady is one of the contestants, however? And will he be able to win her heart where he’s never succeeded before? Meanwhile, Marinette is looking to meet the right guy after years of pining away for someone who has only ever seen her as a friend. She’s not entirely sure if she can fall in love with someone without seeing them, but the things that have always mattered to her most are the kinds of things that can’t be seen. What will she do when she realizes her heart is being pulled in two directions? And will she be ready to make a decision in time?
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Over and Over by stcrsquad
Marinette Dupain-Cheng has had the worst day possible. She's failed to confess to Adrien (again), made an embarrassment of herself, and got into a fight with Chat Noir. Adrien Agreste has had the worst day possible. He is tired of being pushed aside by everyone, including his crime-fighting partner Ladybug. Luckily, fate (and Bunnyx) works in mysterious ways because they wake up again on the same day. A do-over. Except it keeps happening. Can the two figure out what they need to fix to break the loop, or will they be stuck forever?
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Graine de toi by MireilleTanaka
Ladybug and Chat Noir think they’re close, until they begin waking up in one another’s skin. AU: Adrien is homeschooled, and he and Marinette have never met. Written for Adrinette April 2020, Day 17: Life Swap. The one prompt snowballed into a multi-chapter fic. Loosely inspired by Your Name (Kimi no na wa), but no need to have watched it to read, since there's no actual plot connection except the premise of swapping lives.
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Knight in Shining Amour by Cakedecorator
Marinette is the daughter of the castle bakers, and she herself is the royal seamstress. She lives her life making clothes, helping her parents, and generally living a simple life. However, she also laments the loss of her childhood friendship with Prince Adrien, and remembers the promise they made when they were five years old. Resigning herself to the reality that she would never be able to marry the prince, and assuming he'd forgotten their promise, Marinette tries to live her life without letting loss get to her. However, her love story begins a new chapter when she's approached by Cat Noir, a debonair new knight in the castle.
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Evergreen by tanyatakaishi
Everything was gone. The entire cityscape had been obliterated, leaving them in a valley of trees. Blue mountains, peaks dressed in snow, stretched tall in the distance and at their foot lay an array of vineyards, miles wide with no civilization in sight. AKA: two heroes lost alone in the woods with no cheese.
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Someone to Watch Over Me by @dfcfanfics
Adrien is used to his father taking him for granted and treating him poorly, especially since his mother's disappearance... but it's never been anywhere _near_ this bad before. Between that and trouble at school, his life is in quite the downward spiral. He's been putting on a brave face, but he's struggling... and his friends are starting to notice. One special friend in particular. Marinette is determined to help him, any way that she can -- with _and_ without her mask. But when Akumas fly towards Adrien, he soon finds himself more deeply entwined in Marinette's life AND Ladybug's private life than he'd ever imagined. Can Adrien possibly decide between the two angels who are making his life worth living again? Can Marinette process Adrien's crush on Ladybug AND his growing feelings for her? And can Gabriel stop laughing long enough to launch his master plan? A fluffy DFC - buggachat Ladrienette jam. 10/15: Our story is now complete with the posting of Chapter 24, the epilogue. Thank you so much for reading, as always.
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aflame4goinghome · 6 months
Text
Part Of The Band
j.t.k. x f.reader
part four
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part three
word count: 6.3k
warnings: swearing, mentions of drinking, lots of sexually implicit language, mentions of sex, flirting, yearning, kissing, i guess some groping/heavy petting(?), shameless nicknames once again; nothing too bad this time around... for now ;)
JAKE’S POV:
She turns around and gives you a cute little wave before heading inside her front door, making your heart flutter slightly. You find yourself just staring at the closed door with a stupid smile on your face before you finally snap out of it, pulling off the shoulder of the street and driving off. You’re 27 years old, Jake. Stop acting like a teenager.
It’s still hard to believe that this is where your day had taken you. You just wanted to take a quick look at the selection at the record store after so many long, exhausting hours in meetings this morning. You hardly believed it when you saw her there; you didn’t even know it was her at first but something pulled you toward her, telling you to say something.
She looked different than she did when you met her years ago, her hair had grown out longer and she added those bangs that framed her face just right. The look in her eyes remained the same, however- focused, passionate, and kind- something that seems to have only strengthened with time. It was something that you admired about her.
You knew that you had no right to be upset with her for not reaching out, it wasn’t like you had either. When you found yourself in Anaheim four months ago, calling her did cross your mind but you were unsure that she’d answer. It had been nearly two years, surely someone would have swept her off her feet by now, loving her and giving her everything she desired.
This was something that you knew you wouldn’t be able to do. With tour picking back up, interviews, and more album production, you didn’t feel like you could give her the life that she deserved. How could you love and cherish her enough while being gone so frequently? She deserved someone who could love her wholly without compromises. You’d rather keep her at a distance than break her heart. So, you didn’t call. But it seems like fate had other plans.
You stop at a stoplight, reach into your back pocket for your phone, and pull it out. You open it up and pull up Josh’s contact, pressing call. The dial rings a few times through the speakers in the car before he picks up. “Hello?”
“Josh, hi… are you busy?” you ask. “No, I’m just at home, why? All good?” he asks with a concerned tone. “Can I come over? It’s been a weird day,” you reply, your voice a bit shaky. “Yeah, Jake. Of course,” he says. “I’m just in Midtown. I’ll be there soon.” “Okay, see you soon.”
About ten minutes later, you pull into Josh’s driveway and walk up to the front porch. You lay a few knocks on the front door and then the door flings open, revealing your kind-faced brother, smiling from ear to ear. You enter the threshold and pull him in for a hug, holding it a bit longer than you usually do.
“…Everything okay?” he asks, pulling away and walking into his kitchen, reaching into the cabinet to pull out two wine glasses. You watch him take out a bottle of Pinot Grigio from his wine rack and pour it into your glasses as you approach the kitchen and lean against the counter.
“I’m not really sure. I think it might be soon. But I’m feeling pretty lousy at the moment,” you reply as he hands you one of the glasses. “What happened?” he asks you, looking over for an answer. You take a sip, taking in a deep breath.
“I had some free time after my meetings today, so I decided to check out a record store on Broadway in Midtown that I saw on my drive back. I walked in and started to browse some of the records when I looked up and saw a head of long dark hair in front of me looking through the CDs. It felt so familiar, I couldn’t comprehend why, so I approached her to find out. It was Y/N, Josh. She’s just moved here…” you finally spit out, feeling the weight lift off your shoulders. You watch as his face lights up a bit, seemingly pleased by the news.
“I see… how did that make you feel? You seem stressed… didn’t you like her?” he asks, with a subtle smile on his face. Your brother knows you better than anyone, and he can see right through you in an instant. He knows what the feeling you’re having is, but he wants you to say it and come to terms with it yourself.
“Well… of course I liked her—a lot. I just never thought I’d see her again. And now that I have… I don’t know. It’s all so overwhelming. But I’ll know how I feel better after I take her out to dinner this Friday. I guess we’re trying to start over, whatever that means. It’s been a long time, and neither of us ever reached out.”
“And why is that, Jake?” your brother asks, smirking. You scoff and roll your eyes, knowing that he's messing with you. You decide to continue the bit, checking your watch jokingly. “Josh, should I be paying you by the hour? Considering you’re behaving like my therapist.” He chuckles at that, taking a sip of his wine. “I came here to get a little drunk and tell you about my day, not for you to psychoanalyze me with your freaky twin telepathy bullshit,” you continue, laughing along with him.
The two of you stand there for a while longer, discussing the results of your meetings this morning and the plans for the album release next weekend. You knew what Josh was getting at, asking you all those questions. You’re just not quite ready to think that seriously yet. You’ve only just seen her again, after all these years, you don’t want to rush it with ideas of love and deeper feelings. Now really wasn’t the time for all of that. At least, that’s what you’re telling yourself.
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HER POV:
You spend the rest of the week working a few shifts at the record store and spending time brainstorming ideas for your novel. Nothing is really jumping out at you, though, so you’re putting the writing on hold for now. It’s finally Friday and the nerves are really getting to you. You’re not sure how this evening with Jake will go, and that scares you.
Of course, taking you out to a nice dinner will allow the two of you to get to know each other better, but what about after? And what if he isn’t the same man that he was two years ago? Will that person still be someone that you might want to spend time with? You hope so, but you suppose that you’ll find out soon.
It’s about 6:30 now, so you decide that it’s time to start getting ready. You take a shower and then blow dry your hair, styling it with a loose curl. You apply some makeup, nothing too out of the ordinary but you opt for a red lip and some mascara.
Then, you head over to your closet to pick out something to wear. It’s ridiculously hot in Nashville this weekend, so you decide on a short black sundress with little white flowers on it, which is cute enough for dinner while also allowing you to stay cool on this hot summer evening. You slip on a pair of black wedged heels, grab your keys, and then go downstairs to wait for Jake’s arrival.
You hear a light knock at the door right on time and rise from the couch to answer it. You open the door and see Jake standing there, looking down at his feet as he waits. He’s holding a bouquet of baby’s breath, fiddling with the ribbon around it with his fingers.
He’s subbed out his usual distressed blue jeans for some black dress pants, seemingly tailored to fit him just right. He has on a cream button-down, half unbuttoned as usual, with chains dangling from his neck. He’s acquired more of those since you last saw him years ago, but you’re certainly not complaining. He has on his usual black sunglasses, of course, but you can see his eyes slightly through the glass as he looks up at you.
His distracted expression turns into one of adoration as he sees you open the door. All dressed up, modest yet beautiful. Everything that he’s always known you to be. His lips curl up slightly into a small smile as he goes to speak.
“Y/N, you are an absolute vision,” he says, reaching up to brush your cheek ever-so-slightly with his thumb. He looks into your eyes for a moment before pulling back and handing you your flowers. “I saw these at a market down the street from my place this morning and they reminded me of you…”
You blush lightly as you gesture for him to step inside with you and head into the kitchen to find a vase. “They’re beautiful, Jake. Thank you. No one’s ever given me flowers before…” you say, looking over at him with a shy smile before turning around to fill the vase with water at the sink. You cut the stems slightly at the bottom before placing them into the vase and setting it on the kitchen island in the center of the room. “Perfect,” he says, smiling. “Shall we?” He reaches his hand out to yours and you take it, following him out to his car.
He opens your door for you, allowing you to get inside before closing it and rounding the car to get in as well. He turns the car on and looks over at you for a moment with a smile before pulling out onto the street. The sun is starting to set as he drives you both to the restaurant, which he says isn’t too far away. He tells you that he lives in East Nashville, so he’s taking you to his favorite Italian restaurant on that side of town.
As you look out the window to admire the beautiful night, you feel him reach over and place his hand on your bare thigh. He lightly grazes his thumb over your soft skin as he continues to drive, which makes your breath hitch in your chest for a moment.
The action, while subtle, still manages to fluster you, causing you to take a deep breath and lean your head back against the headrest. You’re still looking out the window, trying not to acknowledge it or how it makes you feel, not seeing that he has a smirk on his face. You finally arrive at the restaurant and you sigh in relief, not feeling very prepared for the night you have ahead of you.
Jake gets out of the car and walks over to your side, opening the door for you and taking your hand in his. You smile up at him as you get out of the car, and he places his hand on the small of your back as you walk to the entrance of the restaurant. As you approach the hostess stand, his hand moves from your back to your waist, holding onto you.
Your face turns a light shade of pink as he asks for a table and rubs his thumb along the fabric of your dress. He drops his hand as the hostess brings you both to the table, which is a secluded two-person booth. The table is adorned with the subtle light of a single candle and there is some dimmed lighting above, which certainly sets the romantic mood.
He sits down across from you and removes his sunglasses, setting them down on the table before glancing at the menu. You decide to look down at the menu yourself for a moment, then decide to ask him for his opinion. “What’s your favorite?” you ask, looking over to him. He lifts his head from the menu and smiles at you, answering “Well, I usually get the chicken parmesan. But the carbonara is also quite good.” You nod and smile down at the menu as the waiter approaches the table and asks for your order.
Jake looks up at you and raises an eyebrow to suggest that you go first. “I’ll take a glass of Riesling and the pasta carbonara, please,” you say to the waiter, then look over at Jake and smile timidly. “I’ll have a glass of Pinot Noir and the chicken parmesan. Thank you,” he says as the waiter writes it down and then walks back toward the kitchen. “Good choice, love,” he says to you, the corners of his mouth curling up ever so slightly.
You smile back timidly, softening your gaze a bit to admire him. You think to yourself that he’s never looked better, though you wouldn’t dare to tell him that now, lest you fuel his ego. He seems to notice that you’re deep in thought. “What’s on your mind?” he asks, raising an eyebrow as he locks his eyes on yours. “Nothing… I think I might just be a bit nervous,” you admit, looking up at him, trying to gauge his reaction to your honesty.
The waiter comes by to drop off your wine and then heads back to the kitchen. “There’s nothing to be nervous about, sweetheart,” Jake answers, taking a sip of his wine. “It’s only me,” he continues, leaning over the table slightly now to get a closer look at you as he talks. You take a deep breath and then meet his eyes. There’s a glimpse of something in them, but you can’t quite place it right now. It intrigues you, though.
“So, this new album of yours. What is it like?” you ask, bringing your hands up and crossing your fingers together, placing them on top of the table in front of you. “I have to admit that I haven’t listened to any of the singles yet, it’s been an overwhelming couple of months. Besides, a part of me wanted it to be a surprise…” He smiles at your question, seemingly eager to talk about his music. You know that it’s something he cares deeply about. If anything was a good icebreaker for the evening, this would be it.
 “If I’m honest, I think it might be our best work yet. I know that sounds like a bit of a stretch but truly, it’s spectacular. We recorded a lot of it live together in the studio and it just came together so well,” he says, practically beaming. “I really think you’ll like it. At least, I hope you will,” he continues, catching your eyes. You smile back at him and nod.
“Considering you’re so proud of it, I’m sure I’ll love it. I look forward to hearing it,” you tell him, reaching your hand over and placing it on top of his on the table. He looks down at your hand, then back up at your face as he embraces your touch and smooths his thumb over the back of your hand. “Well Y/N, now you know what I’ve been doing for the past year and a half… care to fill me in about what you’ve been up to?” he asks, still keeping his hand in yours.
“Nothing nearly as interesting. I finished school in May, finally. I couldn’t stay in LA though. I’ve lived in California my whole life, I just want to explore, you know? I’m 23, I should be taking advantage of my time while I still have it,” you tell him, looking up at him as you continue. “Being a freelance writer requires a bit more adventure than I had before. You can’t write exciting stories without living them a little, right? I’ve just been needing some inspiration.”
He dons a closed-lip smile as he nods in agreement. “Have you found it? Inspiration?” he asks, his lips turning up into more of a smirk. “That remains to be seen,” you reply, intending to tease him. You know what he’s implying with the question, but you’re not sure that you know the answer quite yet. You hope for it to be “yes,” but you won’t get ahead of yourself.
The waiter brings your food and places it on the table, encouraging you to enjoy it before leaving you both alone once again. It looks delicious and you both eat your food in comfortable silence. When you’re finished, you push your plate away slightly and look up at Jake, who’s seemingly finished as well. He pays the bill then steps out of the booth and takes your hand to help you out. As you exit the restaurant and approach his car, you stop and turn to him.
“This was an amazing dinner, Jake. Thank you for taking me here,” you say, smiling at him. He leans his back against his car as he looks down at you and caresses your cheek softly. “It was my pleasure, love. I consider myself to be quite lucky to have the privilege of your company tonight,” he says, moving his hand to cup your cheek.
“You look so beautiful, like a work of art. So delicate, makes me feel like I have to be careful or else you might shatter in my hands,” he continues, looking down at you with a subtle smile. You sigh at the feeling of his hand on your face, as though it was always meant to be there. You look up at him through your eyelashes, feeling the all too familiar butterflies fluttering in your stomach as you meet his gaze.
He’s searching your eyes for any hesitation but he doesn’t find it, only seeing a look of adoration in them. It tells him all he needs to know before he leans down to capture your lips in his. It’s soft and sweet, unlike any time you’ve kissed him before. His thumb smooths over your cheek as his other hand falls to your waist and pulls you closer to him. You place your hands on his waist as you fall into him with a quiet hum and smile against his lips.
One of your hands travels up to grip the back of his neck, tangling your fingers in his now short hair, something you still have to get used to. This elicits a low groan into your mouth as he pulls you harder against him. Before he gets carried away, he pulls out of the kiss, but still keeps his face only inches from yours as you feel his hot breath against your skin.
“You’re gonna be the death of me, Y/N. Mark my words,” he says, his face flush as he keeps his eyes on yours. He leans down to kiss your cheek softly, then places his lips on the shell of your ear and says, “I should take you home now before I lose control of myself.”
With that, he takes your hand in his and walks around the front of the car to open the door for you, allowing you to get inside. The ride home is quick, spent mostly with you still trying to catch your breath after what just happened. Before you know it, you’re in front of your house again. This time, however, Jake gets out of the car. He comes over to your side and opens the door for you, helping you out and taking your hand in his as he walks you up to your porch.
He places his hands on your waist and pulls you into him, placing a soft kiss on your lips. You smile as he pulls away, looking down at you. “We’re having a release party next Friday night at Josh’s place, just a small group of our friends and our management team… I’d really like it if you could be there. You can bring Sophie too, it’ll be fun, I promise,” he says, reaching up to push your bangs slightly out of your eyes and smiling.
“I wouldn’t miss it for the world,” you answer, causing him to smile wider. “Send me the details, we’ll be there.” You lean up to kiss his cheek before turning to unlock your front door. “Goodnight, Jake,” you say, turning around to face him. “Goodnight, sweetheart,” he replies before turning to walk back to his car.
You watch him walk away for a moment before stepping inside and closing the door behind you. You smile to yourself as you walk upstairs to your room, saying hi to Sophie before getting ready for bed.
Jake had been such a gentleman tonight, which was expected, but you can tell that he’s matured a lot since you’d last seen him. There was an aura about him now that was just so enticing and hard to resist. It excites you, this feeling of desire, but it could also prove to be quite dangerous. You try to remind yourself to be careful with your heart before you give it away again so freely.
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The rest of the weekend and the beginning of the week pass by quickly, between working a few shifts at the record store and spending time with Sophie during her time off. The party is in two days and you’re starting to feel slightly nervous. You’re not sure if you’ll be able to fit in with their friends, or even what the nature of your relationship with Jake even is. Are you going to this party as his date or just a guest? What do the rest of the guys know about it? All these questions will soon be answered, of course, but that didn’t stop you from worrying.
You opened the store today, working until the mid-afternoon. It’s only you and Iris at the moment and business has been pretty slow. You’re just leaning against the counter scrolling mindlessly on your phone when you hear the bells ring on the front door. You look up to acknowledge the customer walking in, trying to look as though you were doing something productive. Much to your surprise, you are met with Josh Kiszka’s face beaming at you as he approaches the counter.
“I was told I might find you here,” he says proudly. “Josh, hi! I see you’ve spoken to Jake,” you reply, going around the counter to speak to him. “I have. Come here!” he says, opening his arms to embrace you. You wrap your arms around his torso and hug him, placing your head on his shoulder as he squeezes his arms tightly around you. “It’s been too long, darling.” He pulls away and looks you up and down with a smile.
“Look at you! I just love what you’ve done with your hair. You look like one of Charlie’s angels, absolutely gorgeous,” he says, causing your cheeks to turn a shade of pink. Josh always had a certain way of describing things that no one else in the world does.
You take a moment to look at him. He’s changed his hair as well; what used to be a full head of curly hair was now shaved bare at the sides, leaving just a small section in the middle going down to the back of his neck. His rosy cheeks are adorned with a few little white dots that lift upward as he smiles.
He’s wearing a patterned button-down with a white t-shirt underneath and khaki pants, which isn’t much different than the style you knew him to have before, just a little more elevated as the years went on. His perfectly white Vans complement the outfit and make it very him. Most of all, he looks happy. Not that he didn’t before, but he especially does now.
“Oh, stop it, Josh. You look fantastic- not that I expected anything less,” you answer with a soft smile. “Did you just want to stop in to say hello? Or did you come here for something else?” you ask.
“Ah, well when my brother told me you were here, I had to check for myself to make sure he wasn’t hallucinating. He’s rather off his rocker these days, y’know?” he chuckles to himself. You laugh with him, answering “I see. Well, luckily for him, I am very much actually here.”
“Lucky for me, too! With all the press for the album release and the endless tour rehearsals, the only people I ever see these days are the guys, it’s been dreadfully boring. But now I’ll have you to keep me company. You’re like a breath of fresh air, my dear,” he says, smiling wide. “Here, let me give you my cellphone number. Utterly useless thing but alas, I suppose we need it on occasion.”
You hand him your phone and he puts in his contact information, sending himself a message to save yours. He hands you your phone back and then takes his own out of his back pocket, opening your message and saving you into his contacts. “Sadly, I have to run. This visit was rather spontaneous. I was on my way to a meeting just down the road with my brothers and our managers, which I remember was supposed to start 20 minutes ago… Oops. Oh well. I’ll see you on Friday, right?”
“Yeah, I’ll be there,” you reply with a smile, giggling at the lack of concern he had for his tardiness. “Perfect. See you then, angel. Bring wine! Lots and lots of it!” he exclaims as he walks out the door. You laugh as he walks out the door, seeing him start to jog a little bit out the window toward his car.
What a nice surprise, you think. He certainly knows how to brighten up a person’s day. You’re looking forward to spending more time to get to know him. One of your coworkers comes in to relieve you, so you clock out and head home. It was your last shift before what you assume is going to be a very long weekend.
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You awake on Friday feeling refreshed from your day off yesterday. Surprisingly, your usual feelings of nervousness are absent today, replaced with only excitement. You and Sophie went shopping yesterday for dresses to wear to the party since events like album release parties are very out of the ordinary for you both. You weren’t entirely sure what the dress code was, but you wanted to look your best.
You looked into the album and its concept, still opting to not listen to the singles in hopes of having an unbiased experience of the album this evening when they play it start-to-finish. Its name, Starcatcher, was already beautiful in and of itself. You can only imagine how it must sound and you’re really looking forward to it.
In hopes of fitting in with the theme, you picked out a silver matte midi dress with a slit on your right leg, to pair with a pair of black heels. Sophie picked out a deep blue cocktail dress that complimented her equally blue eyes quite well. Before you know it, it’s time to get ready to go to the party. Jake texted you the address yesterday and said to arrive any time after 6 P.M.
He also tells you that Josh asked him to remind you to bring wine, which made you laugh. You picked out a nicer bottle of Chardonnay at Publix this morning, hoping that it will suffice since you’re still unfamiliar with their preferences and the expectations for this kind of event.
You apply your base makeup and then put on some light silver eyeshadow to complement your dress, as well as tight eyeliner and mascara. You leave your hair down and wavy, pinning some of the front pieces back to keep them out of your face. You finally slip on your dress and heels then meet Sophie downstairs and head out to the car.
Josh’s place isn’t too far from where you live, only about a 15-minute drive. Sophie pulls into his driveway and parks behind a long line of cars, and then the two of you approach the front porch. You knock on the door and you’re greeted by Josh’s smiling face. “Ah! My angel! Thank god you’re here,” he says, pulling you in for a tight hug.
“Sophie, my darling, it’s nice to see you. And you’ve brought wine! I knew I could count on you. Come in!” He leads you both through the threshold and into the kitchen, where there are different arrangements of charcuterie and other finger foods spread out on the kitchen island. He takes you over to his bar cart and wine rack and then reaches over to the counter next to it and grabs a few wine glasses for you.
He reaches out to Sophie to take the wine from her, taking a glance at the label first before opening it. “Lovely choice of wine, angel. My favorite,” he says to you with a wink before using a wine opener to take out the cork and pour you both a glass before pouring one for himself. “To new music and new beginnings!” he says, raising his glass. “To new beginnings,” you answer, with a timid smile as the three of you clink your glasses together and take a sip.
You look up from your glass and see Sam and Danny approaching from the dining room, noticing that Sam’s face lights up when he catches sight of you. “Y/N, I can’t believe you’re here!” he exclaims, coming over to hug you. “You know, I’ve seen all of your pictures with your new look but I still can’t believe it,” you say, reaching up to touch his scruffy beard.
“You better believe it, I’m a man now,” Sam says proudly, chuckling to himself as Danny pipes in. “Yeah, right. On the outside, maybe” he jokes, elbowing Sam’s side and eliciting laughs from the group of you.
“Hey, Y/N,” he says, leaning over to give you a hug, then pulls back and turns his attention to Sophie. “Sophie… still as gorgeous as ever, of course.” She blushes faintly at his compliment and you giggle a bit to yourself as you watch him look down to admire her outfit. His eyes go back up to meet hers and you take that moment to excuse yourself and allow them to talk.
“I’m going to go find Jake,” you say to them, “Soph, are you good staying here with the guys?” She nods and Daniel takes your spot as you turn around and walk toward the living area where there’s an old jazz record playing on the turntable.
You see Jake there, standing and leaning against the side of the couch speaking with someone you assume works with them. As you approach, it seems like he sees you in his periphery and turns to look at you, his lips turning into a subtle smile. He licks his lips and looks down at your dress, then back up at you, making your stomach turn into knots.
He’s dressed in entirely black- a vest underneath a blazer, dress pants, and his usual black boots. His chest is peeking out of the vest in the same way it always does with his button-downs. He replaced his usual many necklaces with one small coin pendant, a subtle difference but quite classy. The all-black outfit paired with his short dark hair is enough to make your knees buckle and the look he’s giving you now certainly doesn’t help the matter.
You watch as he says something to whoever he’s talking to and gestures over to you, and then the gentleman walks away toward the dining room. You finally reach him and he straightens his posture a bit against the couch to talk to you. “Just when I thought you couldn’t possibly get more beautiful, you’ve proved me wrong once again. You look positively stunning, sweetheart, I’m at a loss for words.”
He places his hands on your waist and pulls you toward him, leaning down to kiss your cheek and then you feel his lips linger at your ear. “If I could have my way, I would bring you far away from here right now… how unfortunate that we have to stay here. I guess we’ll just have to behave, huh baby?” he whispers, then pulls away slightly and flicks his eyes from your glossy lips back up to your eyes.
Your cheeks turn pink as you smile up at him, trying not to show how much his words are affecting you. “What about you, Mr. Dark and Mysterious? You look like an Oxford professor,” you tease, gesturing to his vest with a smirk. “Ah yes, this old thing? Well, I was a professor once, you know, in an old life,” he says, straightening out his vest a bit and smiling at you. “Whatever you say, Jake,” you say, giggling at him.
You spend the remainder of the night at Jake’s side, standing with him as he talks to his colleagues and friends about the album. You enjoy listening to him talk about something he felt so passionate about, it makes you happy seeing him in his element. It’s nearing the end of the night now, which means it’s time for them to play the album before you all depart.
You and Jake are seated on the couch together with Sophie, Danny, and Sam on the couch next to you. You have one leg crossed over the other with Jake’s hand resting on your knee softly. The rest of the crowd is standing around in the back of the living room or talking in the dining room.
Josh walks over to the record player and takes out his brand-new Starcatcher vinyl, which is black and decorated with speckles of silver glitter. He places it down and moves the needle delicately to the start of the album before turning around to sit down next to you on the couch. The first notes of the song start and you look over at Jake and smile, seeing him beaming with pride.
The album really is spectacular, just as Jake said. Each song tells a story that is so profound and the production is truly amazing. At the end of it, Josh gets up to put the record away and then turns around to address everybody. “So? Thoughts?” he says with a smile. The room erupts into applause and he gets his answer, returning to sit back down next to you.
“That was… wow. You were right, Jake, it was just perfect. I loved it,” you say with a smile, looking over at him and you see his smile widen at your words. “Thank you, baby…” he says, squeezing your knee in his hand. “And Josh, your vocals were just out of this world. It was wonderful,” you continued, turning to face him. He thanks you and then people start to say their goodbyes and leave for the night.
Sophie stands to say goodbye to the guys and says she’ll wait for you in the car with a wink, knowing you’d want to say goodbye to Jake privately. You nod and turn back around to say your goodbyes. “Well, this has been lovely. It was nice to see you all! Josh, thank you for having me, I hope we can do this again soon,” you say, turning to Josh. He smiles and pulls you in for a hug, nodding. “Of course, darling. I’ll see you very soon, I’m sure of it.” You pull back from him and turn to Jake with a timid smile.
“I’ll walk you out,” he says, placing his hand on the small of your back. He follows you over to the foyer, allowing for the two of you to be somewhat alone. He pulls you in by your waist and smiles down at you. “Thank you for being here, love. It means a lot to me. You’re my good luck charm, remember?”
“Anything for you. You know that,” you say, smiling up at him. He moves his hand up to cup your cheek and leans down to kiss you softly, smiling against your lips. He pulls away and keeps his hand on your cheek, stroking it with his thumb. “The tour is starting up on Monday, here in Nashville. I need my lucky charm there. Will you come?” he asks, looking down at you hopefully. “Of course I’ll come, Jake,” you answer, reaching up to tuck a piece of his hair back behind his ear.
He smiles widely. “I’ll text you the details about where to go this weekend, I can call Jenn in the morning and have her set aside two tickets for you. You can sit side-stage by the catwalk, right where I can see you.” You nod and he opens the front door for you, then leans against it to give you another kiss goodbye before you turn around and walk toward your car.
The ride home is full of lots of questions and squeals of excitement from Sophie. You have some questions of your own, asking about her time spent talking to Danny this evening. You’re overcome with a feeling of excitement and anticipation over this new era for the band, and for yourself.
You’re not sure what the implications of tonight and Monday will be for your relationship with Jake, but you know that you can hardly get enough of him. His energy and kindness consume you completely, pulling you in and making it impossible for you to let go. There was something about him that you just couldn’t resist. The dynamic you have now makes you feel extremely flustered and nervous, so you fear the intensity of what might come next. You suppose you will find out soon…
─────── ・ 。゚☆: *.☽ .* :☆゚. ───────
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grapejuicegay · 11 months
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A... rather personal defense of Pran
I've seen a lot of people being confused about Pran's behaviour and rather upset by him. But like @waitmyturtles said in their review, "I see Pran dealing with something really complicated." Which, yes. That's what this post is about. I just don't think it's about Singapore.
It's about Pran's OCD. I think there was a consensus last week with the way Pran talked about it that it was a recent diagnosis. And I think this episode just confirmed that for me.
This is where the personal part begins - I was diagnosed with OCD in 2020, in the very first few months of covid. When I told people about it I got about the same response that we had to Pran - it's not surprising but it's good that it's an official diagnosis now.
Such a diagnosis is almost a relief when you get it because suddenly a lot of things start making sense. But it also comes with a very fun challenge - learning to deal with it. Because while you understand why you get so much more anxious and overthink more than most people, you're also suddenly more aware of your thought patterns. You have to be, to find a way to work through them, to not give into the intrusive thoughts. But looking at the intrusive thoughts is one of the best ways to let them take over. You do have to look at them though, because you have to learn to recognise them. Because you cannot deal with them until you do. It's a rough cycle.
I was a few years older than Pran when I was diagnosed, and in a very different place in my life. The pandemic that we didn't know a lot about at that time looming over our heads did not help my anxiety, but the lockdown gave me something really special - time and space to work through it all. I wasn't in college so I didn't have the constant looming threat of deadlines and figuring out my future in that very moment. I also didn't have the very unique set of stressors Pran lives with - friends and family from whom you're hiding a relationship that if revealed could potentially lead to very severe consequences, consequences that in the past have been the worst of his anxieties come to life. Nor a relationship to maintain while being overtly aware at all times that this is not the kind of relationship your partner would really want, that they're only in this because of you.
And there is the sacrifice of it all. There is the thing that keeps coming up again and again - that Pat does so much for him. That Pat helps him all the time, that Pat's sacrificed so much for him, that Pran isn't sure he's good enough or ever will be.
Add to that the regular reminders from Pat that he overthinks. They're meant in a very good way and they do help in the moment, I'm not denying that at all. But it's also a fact that Pran struggles with. It adds to his concern that he's a burden on Pat with the way he thinks, that Pat has to do so much work because of Pran's brain, something Pat had no say over (something Pran had no say over but it's harder to see it like that in the moment).
I've had my diagnosis for the past 3 years now. And it hasn't been until the past year that I've finally started feeling confident in myself and my ability to regulate my anxiety, to finally start feeling like I have control over my brain. Because as much as knowing the diagnosis helps, the work you have to do afterwards is no joke.
So yes, Pran is going through something very heavy, but it's not the prospect of going to Singapore (I don't believe that exists just yet, but it's coming soon). Pran is in the process of figuring out how to make his brain work in his favour instead of actively against him. He's learning to rely on people when he needs to while fighting off constant reminders that he's a burden.
And we've seen Pran make a lot of progress. Any points at which he talks about being anxious are progress. Any time he lets himself be upset is progress. Any time time he says any of his worries out loud (even if he can't say them directly to Pat yet), he has fought his way through who knows how many intrusive thoughts to get to that point. And in the same regard - he probably feels guilty about having Pat say "I can't live without you" first. Because he's likely just as aware that Pat has done so much for him that this is just another thing he's adding on top of that.
But - and I think this is very big - he knows that he needs Pat to say it first, to give him permission to feel this, that this isn't too much for him to ask for. This is him asking for help to express himself when he feels like too much. It helps them both in the long run. And I do think it's a very important step to get what we saw in ep 12 - a Pran that demands love, that demands to be babied. This is him giving himself permission through the hardest part of learning his diagnosis.
I love that we get this between ep 11 and 12 because with this ep 12 also becomes a hug, a way of telling us things may be rough for him but he gets through it. He'll get where he needs to be, wants to be. Just give him some time. Because just like with the parents, sometimes time is just what you need.
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wolfnanaki · 7 months
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I've been thinking for a while now about the decision in Goodbye Volcano High to reveal and use Fang's deadname. And while it's definitely an uncomfortable moment for us trans/nonbinary people in the audience, and there's been a suggestion that there should be a deadname filter so people don't have to see or hear it (and I've censored it in this photo), regarding the game's narrative about Fang's life and the lives of trans/nonbinary people, I think it was the right call.
For one, it's not just the deadname in its own right, but who says it. Everyone else in the game - from Fang's friends, to their fellow peers and teachers, LJ, and even Fang's brother Naser - all use Fang's correct name and pronouns. The only character that doesn't is Fang's mother. She writes the deadname on a sticky note, she texts it to Naser, and she says it during the video call. And each time, we see Fang's reaction.
I think lots of online discourse about trans/nonbinary people has this idea that if you deadname or misgender a trans person, you're going to be on the receiving end of a whinging verbal attack by someone with rainbow hair or whatever. That all it takes to send someone into a flying rage is by ruffling their feathers in what seems to be an innocuous way to cis people. But Fang's reactions are much more true to the lived experience of trans/nonbinary people; they're visibly uncomfortable and upset, but they endure it.
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Fang's parents' inability to name and gender Fang correctly ties in to their perception of Fang as a whole, which is a running theme throughout the game. In the roof scene with Reed in episode 2, Fang tells this to Reed:
"They don't... take me seriously. Like, anything. Music, the band, my name... none of it worthy of respect to them, I guess. Or... at least acknowledging that it's important to me."
This is echoed in Fang's conversation with Sage later, who's facing the same issue; with him being a trans man who chooses to act and dress feminine, he feels like his parents have given up any serious expectations from him, both regarding his career and gender.
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What is of interest to me here is that the game highlights how harmful it is to deadname and misgender trans/nonbinary people, but does it in a way that isn't aggressive or preachy. Instead, it shows the reactions of the people on the receiving end, showing how much it hurts them, and asks the audience to take their feelings seriously.
On a related note, I want to give huge props to Naser. Despite him being the favorite child of the two, he never entertains his parents' inability to grasp Fang's identity. During the video call moment, he makes it a point to use Fang's correct name and pronouns. He stands up for his older sibling, even in a situation where it may be uncomfortable to do so, and that's cool as hell of him.
And finally, on the suggestion of having a "deadname filter" option in the game that censors its audio and text. I get that. I think it'd be great, especially since this game does such a great job at making you feel for these characters that you'd share Fang's pain in those scenes. I'm sure Fang would love to have that filter too, though. And I'm sure many trans and nonbinary people would in real life. My life's audio would be full of lots of censor sound effects. Good idea to add the filter to the game, but remember why it's not there initially, and what the message is trying to portray.
Besides, the kind of people who would deadname Fang would never call them by their canon deadname.
They'd call them Lucy.
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