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#“to show you our appreciation” uh huh
scarletwinterxx · 13 hours
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middle finger and promise rings - jaehyun scenario
helllooooo a fluff moment with jung jaehyun. I was scrolling through tiktok the other day and I found a compilation of him laughing and it was the cutest thing ever so now we're here😅
For my other works you can check them out here, and for my other story series’ you can check them out here.
and if you want, u can buy me coffee(totally optional but any donation is very much appreciated!) thank you🥺💛
All works are copyrighted ©scarletwinterxx 2024 . Do not repost, re-write without the permission of author.
(pics nad gif not mine, credits to rightful owner)
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Jaehyun enters the apartment and the first thing he hears is your laugh. He hangs his jacket on the hook, takes off his shoes before walking towards the living room where he sees you lying on the couch giggling to yourself.
You spot him over your phone, quickly turning it off when you spot your boyfriend "Hi, you're home early" you greet him, walking towards him.
He smiles at you, opening his arms to give you a very much needed hug. He does everyday, without a fail. Whenever he gets home from work or somewhere, he asks for a hug from you.
"What were you watching?" he asks
"You"
"Huh?" he peaks down at you, still caged in his arms
"I was looking through my phone then I saw a bunch of videos, like from when we started dating until recent. You looked cute, especially when you laugh" you answer him
"I thought my laugh was loud" he chuckles, letting you to sit on the couch. You follow him, taking the seat beside him.
"It is. But I love it so much, you know you have this kind of laugh when you find something really funny and your face scrunches up in a cute way" you try to mimic it while Jaehyun watches.
You might as well tell him you'll marry him with the way you're making his heart explode right now. Moments like these are what he looks forward to the most when he comes home. The simple conversations with you, no matter how random they are, he cherishes them so much.
"Oh by the way, can we order chicken and pasta for dinner? Or chinese food? I can't decide, how about you what do you want?"
"Chinese sounds good, do you want me to call our favorite place?" he asks, already getting his phone out
"Okay, and this came in today by the way" you say, passing the package that arrived today. "What is it?" you ask, while waiting for him to open it
"I forgot, must've ordered this a long time ago"
Without checking the label he opens it. When he flips the unsealed package upside down, a velvet box falls on his lap.
The two of you freeze.
He should've checked the label. Jaehyun internally panics.
Meanwhile you don't say anything, waiting for him to do or say something. But he doesn't so you clear your throat, getting your phone on the table "I'll order, tell me if you want anything else" you tell him.
"Uh yea sure" Jaehyun swallows the lump in his throat, finally coming to his senses. Taking the box before excusing himself. You hear the bedroom door open and close.
After that night you don't mention anything about it. You didn't ask questions. You acted like you didn't see it. Jaehyun wondered if he should ask but he doesn't know where to start.
What do you think it was, did you have your suspicions, were you upset with him? These are the questions running in his mind. But you never said anything to him, like everything was normal.
He was debating if he should've just showed you what was inside. If you were thinking it was a ring then you're right.
About a few months ago, he ordered a ring after finally getting your size. He's still worrying if you'll like it. It's not an engagement rring, not yet atleast. The ring inside was a promise ring for you. You told him a story about wearing a ring ever since your teen years, way back before the two of you met. You bought yourself a ring, a promise to exchange it to something else when you get yourself a boyfriend.
You showed him the ring before, it was a simple metal band you used to wear on your middle finger. You never took it off, not a day. That was until he asked you to be his girlfriend.
Of course he had to get you a new one, he was just waiting for the right time to give it to you.
He forgot to check the email about the shipping and didn't expect it to arrive when it did. It definitely wasn't part of the plan to open it infront of you.
It's been a few weeks since then. You honestly kind off forgot about it. You trust Jaehyun will tell you in the right time.
Tonight, he's running a bit late. He got caught up in a meeting so when he got home you were already sleeping. He enters the apartment carefully, walking through the hallway and cracking the bedroom door slowly.
The lights were all off, the only light coming from outside but he can see your silhouette from under the blanket. Quickly but quietly he gets ready for bed, sliding beside you.
He turns sideways to watch you, eyes closed, face peaceful, breathing slow and quite. You're giving off the most serene aura, he can't think of anything else but you.
Your hand was resting open beside your head, he reaches a finger out to trace random patterns while still watching you. He missed you so much today, he don't want to wake you up but he wishes he can give you a hug.
He does that for quite some time, tracing things on your palm while watching you waiting for sleep to come to him too.
From random patterns, to short words. He's now tracing random words on your palm, like you always do with his. You always do it randomly, in public or when it's just the two of you. Most times you spell out the word 'I love you' on his palm, that was actually how you said it to him for the first time. It took him some time to finally realize it, and when he did looked over at you with a surprised look. Saying the same three words back at you.
Right now he traces the word 'mine' in yours, while his mind wonders just how lucky he is to have you in his life.
He believes this isn't the only lifetime he'll love you, it isn't possible. Wishing hoping praying that in all alternate universes, however many there are, that version of him meets their version of you.
Suddenly feelings emotional, he sits up on the bed before reaching for something in the bedside drawer.
You're a light sleeper, especially when you're by yourself. The only time you really fall into deep sleep is when Jaehyun's with you. That's why when you hear some ruckus from Jaehyun's side, you wake up from your slumber
"Jae? You're home?" you mumble, your eyes still closed
"Did I wake you? Sorry, baby. Go back to sleep, I'm here" he whispers. He pulls you towards him, resting your head on his chest. You cuddle him more, making yourself comfortable again.
You listen to his heartbeat to lull yourself back to sleep when you feel him take your hand that was resting on him, he puts something on you before you feel his lips kiss your knuckles.
"What are you doing?" you mumble, opening one eye to peak at your hand only to see a ring that definitely wasn't there before you slept.
You open both eyes this time, sitting up to look at it then at Jaehyun
"Explain" you tell him, gesturing at your hand
"It's a promise ring, remember you used to wear one before we started dating. It took sometime but I finally replaced that one, I didn't want to freak you out on our first anniversary so I waited until now" he explains
"Is this real or am I dreaming?" you ask him
Jaehyun chuckles before sitting up, now face to face with you. He takes your cheeks in his hands before pulling you towards him for a kiss
"This is very very real, my love"
"It's so pretty" you pout at the ring, a simple band with a diamond on it. Like a leveled up version of the one you used to wear
"I'm glad you like it even though I kinda ruined the surprise" he tells you
"I thought it was an engagement ring, not gonna lie"
He kisses you one more time before he pulls you down, settling you on his chest once again. "We'll get there one day. This time I'll make sure it's a surprise"
"But I am surprised, I love this surprise"
"And I love you, that ring is a promise to keep my promise of forever with you. One day we'll get there, one day I'll watch you walk down the aisle to me" he mumbles against your forehead, sealing it with a kiss after
"I'd love that, and I love you too"
"Let's go to sleep now, dream of me okay?"
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slitherpunk · 2 months
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lol. lmao, even
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bangarangdarling · 11 months
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blame the “hitting on your mom as a punishment” tiktok i just saw that literally blew my brain up. established because they’re disgustingly in love and because i say so
Eddie would normally consider himself pretty immune to the roar of arguing teenagers. Chaos surrounds their little Party. They’re not a quiet bunch when all together. It’s all shoving and yelling, giggling and roughhousing. Carpet-burned battle scars from the floor of Steve’s living room.
Lord knows Eddie himself wasn’t an inside-voice kind of person. He was certainly wont to standing on coffee tables and screeching demands for the remote when it was unjustly stolen away by villainous hands.
Eddie loved these people to death, and they were a lot of fucking fun to hang out with, it’s just this...this was an unreal level of noise. A normal sleepover night turned a little too rowdy, the adolescents celebrating the start of Summer with a bang.
Steve had already asked them to keep it down four times this evening. Nothing seemed to calm them. Not requests. Not threats of being sent home. Usually their Dungeon Master threatening their characters’ souls did the trick, but no go. 
Getting teenagers to listen? A feat more impossible than defeating creatures from an alternate universe. 
Dustin and Erica were in a bitching match about the best D&D class. Lucas and Mike had been fighting over movie choices for the last half hour. Eddie’s money was on the VHS player breaking before that, the constant mishandling and shoving of tapes had the poor thing practically smoking.
Will, ever the diplomat, was trying to be an impartial party when asked his movie opinions. Which, of course, caused more yelling. 
Max and El had been the only ones being semi-quiet, but that quickly ended when they followed through on their surprise attack pillow fight, pummeling the boys senseless and causing the already unbearable volume to kick into overdrive. Eddie could practically feel Steve’s migraine building, even from where the dude had retreated to the kitchen. Dinner had been pizza. Quick. Easy. Clean. Or, it would have been if it hadn’t had been for the food fight. Steve was still in there scrubbing cheese out of his parents’ tiled backsplash. Dishes clattered in the distance when the cacophony hit its crescendo. 
It was the proverbial straw. 
“Alright, that’s it! Hey. Come on, guys. Knock it off,”
Nothing. 
“HEY!”
He maybe overdid it that time, but the absolute ear-splitting boom of a yell he let out stopped the ruckus dead. 
Silence rang for a beat.
Huh. Maybe Eddie should try out incorporating that into his music. He honestly hadn’t known he could get to that range. 
The teenagers in the room stared at him, not cowed in the slightest, but curious enough to know what the hell Eddie’s problem was. Max was the first one to quirk an eyebrow at him.  “Geez, need attention much?” 
Eddie folded his arms to show he meant business. “Steve has asked you guys to tone it down. You’re waking the fucking dead. Why don’t you guys, like, actually go be good human beings and help him clean up your mess you all made in the kitchen, huh?” 
Lucas snorted. “Yeah, okay, mom. Why don’t you go help him, you guys will probably just make out in there, anyway.” 
It was a teasing comment. Meant to jokingly rib before getting back to doing whatever the hell they wanted to do.
But, see. That just gave him an idea. 
Never let it be said Eddie couldn’t be creative with his punishments. He was a DM after all. 
“Alllllllright. New plan. Listen up or suffer, ankle biters,” 
He really didn’t appreciate the snickers that brought about when he was trying to be intimidating. Rude. 
“You going to send us to our room or something? I’m real scared,” Erica’s scathing, dry wit was unparalleled, truly. 
“Nope. Better. It’s a new rule: You little shitheads give me attitude and don’t listen, I hit on your babysitter.”
It was silent for a minute, brains audibly computing that statement and coming up ERROR. Will hesitantly spoke up. 
“Uh, Eddie, I really don’t think that’s--”
“Yeah, what the fuck?” Mike interrupted. “Why would you beating up Steve hurt us? I mean, like, I guess it would emotionally, but that’s fucked up, man.” 
Eddie rolled his eyes, still smirking wickedly as his plan solidified.  “Oh, I don’t mean that kind of hitting, young Wheeler. Though, it may yet get physical--Hey, Steve?” He called out. The sink in the kitchen shut off after a second.
“Yeah?” 
“Can you come here?” 
The kids shuffled around on the floor warily as the other man walked into the living room. The energy had obviously shifted, it was probably an odd vibe to walk in to, but Eddie cut Steve off before he could ask any questions.
“You tired?”
“Uh, no. I’m fine--”
“It’s just you just keep on runnin’ through my mind constantly. I figured you’d be exhausted, sweetheart,” Eddie purred, the words cloyingly sweet and full of exaggerated charm. 
There was a countdown, three, two, one...
A collective groan let out. A few uncomfortable laughs.  “Dude, what the hell?” 
“You guys agreed not to be gross in front of us!”
“Oh, my god, can I actually get sick from how cheesy that was?” 
Eddie had to work at keeping in character when his very first line had pulled the intended reaction. He was already reaching forward to curl an arm around Steve, pulling him in in a slow, sultry attempt at being smooth. 
“What? Can’t I be sweet on my guy? You all will understand when you’re in love one day. Right, sugar?” 
Fake gags and retching sounds, too dramatic to be real protests, but still indignant and annoyed. Eddie was pretty sure Dustin slapped a hand over his eyes.
“Uh...yes?” Steve, who had previously looked like a car accident had happened directly in front of him, was catching on to the play. He eyed the disgruntled floor-children with a growing grin and let Eddie snuggle up to him.
God, his baby was so clever. He always knew what Eddie was thinking. 
Too busy having a non-verbal conversation with Steve on how to best annoy the kids, Eddie didn’t see Mike turning his attention back to the tv. He did, however, hear him telling the others to “Just ignore them, they’ll get all gushy and leave us alone.” 
Oh, Michael, Michael. Wrong move. 
“How you doing, babygirl?” Steve flushed, deep and red and--huh. Okay. Revisiting that one in the future. “You good? You need anything? Your head hurting, sweet thing? I can kiss it better,”  Eddie ducked forward to kiss Steve’s cheek. It was chaste, a sweet little thing...that Eddie made infinitely worse by the smacking, obnoxious kissy sounds he emulated there. The chorus of groans and protests started up again. He didn’t even pull his face away to call over to them. 
“I’m sorry, is that attitude? Am I hearing more attitude?”
“Dude, Eddie, noooo!” 
“Jesus, it’s like watching your parents make out, oh my god.” 
“You guys, let’s just go already,” 
“Yeah, I’ll take washing dishes over this,” 
The grossed out teenagers whooshed past them. Grumbling and glaring--except Eleven, who smiled up at them sweetly--leaving Steve and Eddie standing in the living room, still wrapped up together. 
It was too tempting then, with the kids safely out of range, for Eddie to resist the temptation to drop his kisses a little lower down Steve’s neck. To let them get a little less chaste. Just a little.
What can he say? He’s a weak man. 
“That was evil,” Steve hummed. His shoulders dropped, though, relaxing into Eddie’s hold, the closest thing they’ve had to quiet all night settling in. 
“Hey, I accomplished two things. Got them to chill out and I get the perk of feeling you up in the middle of sleepover night. It’s a win-win.” 
A crash and a muffled argument broke out in the kitchen before Steve could respond to that. 
The audible scuffling was cut off by Eddie calling out “Your ass looks great in these jeans tonight, Harrington!” 
The fierce whispers and shushing were enough to get both of the older boys cackling loudly. 
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HEY STEPHEN…
charlie bushnell x singer!reader
warnings: fluff, smau
summary: you release a new album !!
a/n I SWEAR ILL HAVE THE CHEST OF LOVE OUT BY THIS WEEK potential pt two if i finish the chest of love this week
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liked by sabrinacarpenter, ynln and others celebgossip rumours say that yn ln is releasing a new album featuring sabrina carpenter andtaylor swift comments are closed
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liked by iamcharliebushnell, sabrinacarpenter and others ynln all those other girls are beautiful…but would they write a song for you? view comments
hearts4yn WERE GETTING AN ALBUM iamcharliebushnell no they would not 💯 ➔ dior.n.goodjohn she wrote a whole ass album 😭 ➔ ynln 🙈 gracieabrams AHAJWJJSNSNS ➔ ynln STOP ILY sabrinacarpenter yall are not ready for the photoshoot 🫣 ➔ ynln 😘 walkerscobell HEY STEPHEN !! ➔ ynln I KNOW LOOKS CAN BE DECEIVING ➔ leahsavajeffries i taught him this. leahsavajeffries ALBUM !! ALBUM !! ALBUM !!!!!!!!! ➔ ynln ALBUM !!!!! dior.n.goodjohn IM IN LOVE WITH THIS ➔ ynln i’m in love with YOU ➔ iamcharliebushnell … i.am.andrewalvarez 🤫🧏‍♀️ ➔ ynln get out ➔ aryansimhadri 🤫🧏‍♀️ elliebellykim i’m so excited 😆 ➔ ynln MY GIRLLL ➔ aryansimhadri wtf man leenascobell RELEASE IT EARLY !!!! ➔ ynln @treepaine PLSSS this comment is now deleted ➔ ynln my manager won’t let me 😞 honeymoon oh my baby’s all grown up ➔ ynln PLS ILY taylorswift it’s ur 3rd album already !! i’m so proud of you 🤍 ➔ ynln CANT WAIT FOR TTPD
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liked by sabrinacarpenter, gracieabrams and others ynln i’m in love ‘fictional daydream’ version is now available on my store, with the bonus track “book of love” your support on this album has been so unwavering i thought i’d give you a couple of little presents.
as you know my album is coming out in 3 weeks (so close already), as a little thank you to everyone who has showed their love on this album i will be releasing ‘cherry on top’ NEXT WEEK !!
and for everyone who has been there for me since i posted covers with my bestie sab on youtube; IM GOING ON TOUR, the i’m in love world tour starts in 3 months !! tickets will be available at the same time as cherry on top releases
i love you guys 🩷 view comments
ynloml MOTHER IS FEEDING US iamcharliebushnell i’m so proud of you 🫶🏻 ➔ ynln ilysm char<3 ➔ hearts4yn their so cuteeee dior.n.goodjohn 😍 ➔ ynln BBYYYY leahsavajeffries you’re so pretty ➔ ynln leah babes ur my favourite ilysm user34 this albums going to be shit ➔ hearts4yn this album is NOT based off of u liked by yn sabrinacarpenter charlie is shaking ➔ dior.n.goodjohn uh huh ➔ i.am.andrewalvarez can confirm
*1 month later*
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liked by ynln, dior.n.goodjohn and others grammysofficial we present to you the future of the music industry AND best dressed of this years grammys view comments
taylorswift my childrennnn ➔ honeymoon our* children hearts4yn the first time in forever i felt like the grammys weren’t rigged moonchildswift help what am i doing wrong yn is 19 and has 2 grammys 4 vmas acting in two of the biggest shows of 2024 and a model ➔ user78 wait what were the shows ➔ moonchildswift she’s thalia in pjo and she’s flora in damsel (the new movie on netflix) ynloml MY QUEENSSSSS ynishearteyes YNNNNN ➔ iamcharliebushnell ur username is so real ➔ ynln 🙈 ➔ ynishearteyes HELPP
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liked by ynln, milliebobbybrown and others ynslove throwback thursday to when yn starred in two of the biggest shows of 2024 and released her third album (I GOT TICKETS TO THE IM IN LOVE TOUR LA N2) view comments
hearts4yn IM GOING ON DUBLIN N3 ➔ ynloml SINGAPORE N6 ➔ ynismywife CINCINNATI N1 user56 YN LIKED fcklife MILLIE LIKED
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liked by sabrinacarpenter, walkerscobell and others ynln lil bf appreciation post view comments
walkerscobell ew… ➔ ynln who gave him his account back iamcharliebushnell 💕 ➔ walkerscobell whipped ➔ iamcharliebushnell loud and proud liked by creator and 5400 others leahsavajeffries CUTIESSS dior.n.goodjohn MY girl elliebellykim aryan could never ➔ aryansimhadri EXCUSE ME ➔ ynln LOLLL
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liked by ynln, taylornation and others ynsminions yn at opening night of the ‘i’m in love’ world tour !!! see you tomorrow nyc 🩷🖤 comments are closed
a/n i’m literally gonna crash ramadan has started 😭 and we’re going to india on 5th of april so i’ll be afk for a month 🫶🏻 ALSO TT IS BANNED IN INDIA IMA HAVE TO DELETE IT 😭
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howlingday · 2 months
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Just A Talk
Ruby: Pyrrha? What are you and Nora doing here?
Nora: Hi, girls~!
Pyrrha: Professor Goodwitch called us in here to discuss something. She said it had something to do with our futures at Beacon Academy.
Weiss: So it wasn't just us?
Yang: That's kinda weird. I mean, me and Ruby are one thing, but all six of us?
Blake: It might be huntress training, since Jaune and Ren aren't here.
Goodwitch: How very astute, Miss Belladonna. And yes, you are correct on one thing. This is a training for you six huntresses in training. An important lesson I want to be sure you all learn.
Weiss: What is it?
Goodwitch: Inside this folder is important information about one of your fellow students at Beacon. This information isn't exactly confidential, BUT it is imperative that you learn what you can from them.
Nora: Ooh! Me, me, me! I want to see them first!
Goodwitch: (Hands folder) Inside are six photographs. Take one and then pass the folder along.
Nora: Aw~! It's a baby Jaune!
Pyrrha: Really?! I-I mean... Really?
Yang: Aw, look at the baby Vomit Boy~!
Blake: He is pretty adorable. But if Jaune is the student, what's the important information in these baby pictures? And aren't these supposed to be private?
Goodwitch: I am permitted by him to show as I please, though it must be these ones specifically. Any others require his express permission.
Weiss: So if he's letting you show them, then they must not be that embarrassing. But why show us? And why do you have this permission as a faculty member?
Goodwitch: It's not as a faculty member that I'm sharing these photos.
Ruby: Huh? What's that mean?
Goodwitch: Who is in those photos?
Ruby: Uh... Jaune and his... mom?
Goodwitch: Guess again.
Ruby: Jaune and his... sister? Aunt?
Goodwitch: Yes, his aunt. Do you notice something about his aunt? Anything familiar?
Pyrrha: Oh no...
Nora: Uh oh...
Yang: (Tugs collar)
Blake: Oh...
Weiss: Oh no...
Ruby: ...What? What are you guys talking about? It's just Jaune and his aunt who has blonde hair, wears glasses, and... has... green...
Ruby: (Lifts smiling photo)
Ruby: (Sees scowling face)
Ruby: Oh... So you're...
Goodwitch: Slow to perceive as usual, Ms. Rose. And yes, you are correct, and that is why I called you six in here. Not as your professor. (Glares) But as his aunt.
Pyrrha: Um, P-Professor Goodwitch, why are we called in here, exactly?
Goodwitch: To establish ground rules as his six closest female friends. Rule number one; I do not want to see any distractions. Jaune's attendance here at Beacon is one made of his own free will, and I will not stand by as his focus is disrupted from his desires.
Ruby: Huh?
Yang: No dating Vomit Boy.
Ruby: Oh.
Goodwitch: And that is another rule I wish to establish; there will be no further name calling from any of you. Not while I am within earshot. While I am around, you will not refer to him as anything other than his name.
Nora: Not even Jaune-Jaune?
Goodwitch: No.
Nora: Fearless leader?
Goodwitch: No.
Nora: Vomitron 6000?
Goodwitch: Do you intend to test my patience all day? I can stop taking things easy on you girls.
Ruby: She was taking it easy?
Pyrrha: Are there any other rules we have to follow while Jaune is attending Beacon.
Goodwitch: Just one more. Along with refraining from dating, I also expect you to also refrain from... making advances on him.
Blake: Advances such as?
Goodwitch: Writing love letters, inappropriate public displays of affection, exposing yourself to him.
Yang: Things were wild back when you were a student, huh, Auntie G?
Goodwitch: ...
Yang: Er, Professor Goodwitch?
Ruby: Wait a minute... Where's Velvet?
Goodwitch: Velvet? What about Miss Scarlatina?
Ruby: Well, shouldn't she be in here, too, since she's also Jaune's friend?
Goodwitch: ...Oh no.
--------------------------------------------
Jaune: Geez, Velvet, you're really huggy today, huh?
Velvet: (Nuzzling him) I just wanted to show you how much I appreciate you as my friend.
Jaune: Aw, thanks, Velvet!
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livelaughloveloak · 10 months
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𓂅 WISHUROSES ⊰ 🎡
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𖦹 pairing : earth1610!miles morales x reader
𖦹 summary : random scenarios and headcanons of miles as your boyfriend
𖦹 author's note : y'all I'm literally running out of ideas so I would appreciate it if you guys sent me some requests 😭 btw this isn't proofread
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you and him definitely have a snapstreak but it was on accident. he randomly snapped you and you'd snap him back on a daily so now you two are just stuck with a 200+ snapstreak.
he bought you a Polaroid camera for your birthday and you ended up using up most of the film on him.
you have the pictures up on the board hanging up in your room
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HE'S A COMPLETE SWEET HEARTTTT through actions or through text he'll show his love for you either way.
you pulled back from the tight hug miles pulled you into and looked up at his face. "miles you have that smug look on your face again." you poked his cheek and laughed. miles gasped and was quick to defend himself although he was in fact smiling like an idiot. "I do not!!"
if he's not busy with spiderman business, school, family problems, or hanging out with you then he's busy texting you instead.
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he might go to an advanced private school but he refuses to write sentences properly.
you'd receive messages from him like these
inaminit
whaddup
nuhuh
luv u
wya?
he'll abuse the living hell out of emojis when texting you
"yup 😎😎😎😎😎😎💪💪💪"
"wdym no ☹️☹️😒😒🤨🤨🤨"
omw Mami 😋😋😋🤟🏿🤟🏿🤟🏿🤟🏿🤟🏿🤟🏿
he'll ask you for help when it's washday for his hair. his scalp is sensitive so you make sure to be extra careful
he has your contact saved as mi alma. one time his mom saw the contact name pop up on his phone and questioned him about it. he freaked out and started blabbering nonsense
he tells you stories about his adventures when his uncle aaron was still alive.
he has a picture of you as his wallpaper and a pic of you guys together as his lockscreen
he draws you two matching pfps
will definitely give you a new drawing everytime he can
was sweating bullets when he finally revealed to you that he was spiderman.
the pressure was quickly lifted off of his shoulders once you said that you accepted him and understood.
he's still scared that you'd be his canon event and swears he'll never let you die
"even if I have to destroy this universe as long as you're alive I'll be alright." you pinched his cheek and smiled. "don't be silly miles" a groan escaped his mouth as you giggled. "mami stopppp I'm being serious right now."
he let's you win in games just to see you happy but if it's basketball he's not gonna hold back 😭🙏
has his face buried in your neck while sleeping. he says it's because "I'm cold and you just happen to be warm" but yet again it's the middle of summer.
will be jumping up and down our of joy when you bought him new Jordans for his birthday
he has a bracelet with your name engraved into it and he wears it proudly
his phone album is filled with pictures of you. you and him fight eachother whenever you catch him trying to take a candid 0.5 picture of you
he 100% calls you "my heart"
says the most old man type of comebacks when playfully arguing with you
"yeah well you can go kick rocks!!"
"boohoo buckaroo"
"too bad so sad"
"nuh uh" or in other times "yuh huh"
"whatever pal"
"listen here buddy"
you two wear matching pajamas when you have sleepovers
don't get me started on this man and saying the "rizz" jokes...
"rizzanator is what I am"
"let's have a rizz off"
"call me the rizzmaster"
he'll airdrop you the most random memes and burst out laughing when seeing your reaction
he gifted you a promise ring with both of your initials engraved into it as an anniversary gift
miles won you a teddy bear in a fair and now you both call it your "child"
don't expect to get a warning because miles will randomly FaceTime you out of nowhere.
he'd give you a spiderman suit so you could match with him
when you first met his mom she liked you without hesitation and asked to take a picture with you. she made miles take the picture 😭
overall a sweet guy and will give you the princess treatment you deserve!!
﹉﹉﹉﹉﹉﹉﹉﹉﹉﹉﹉﹉﹉﹉﹉﹉﹉﹉﹉﹉
July 4, 2023 | All rights reserved to @livelaughloveloak • Do not repost, reupload, translate, modify, or claim any of my work as your own. ✮
art in the polaroids are made by purpletunabread on twitter and koscribbls on instagram
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kazumist · 3 months
Text
EPISODE 17 ✿ ENDEARING
YOU + ME = LOVE — A DILUC SMAU
masterlist / prev ep / next ep / wc: 794
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it was silly, really. 
it was silly ever since diluc realized his feelings. he suddenly finds everything about you so endearing. he finds it ridiculous how he feels himself get all giddy when you’re not even doing anything. he finds it ridiculously endearing that the simple thought of you is enough to make him feel this way.
with finals approaching, all you and diluc do is technically just review the coverage of your exams. and when you’re lucky enough to finish early, you two would just stay at your spot in the library and kill time. “professor barnes is the literal worst, i swear!” you complained. professor barnes, your teacher for practical research, isn’t really the best. he tends to skip his class (you once thought it was ironic that he was the one cutting class instead of his own students). “let me guess, he didn’t turn up for your class with him again?” diluc asks.
“yeah, and as per usual, we just sat in the classroom like total idiots because we haven’t received any feedback yet about our draft for chapters one and two!” you complained to him again, groaning in annoyance as you felt diluc rub a hand against your back—his personal way of showing comfort.
“if you’d like…” he starts.
“nope! nuh-uh. you are not going to be the one who’s going to review our draft.” you knew immediately what he was going to suggest. and you shut him down as soon as you can. as much as you admire how diluc is so dedicated and hardworking, you don’t really want to be a burden.
“but i don’t have much on my plate right now.”
“liar. kaeya told me that you guys are busy with your capstone project these days.” 
he tilts his head at you, confused. “you’re friends with kaeya?”
“who isn’t friends with kaeya?”
“fair enough.”
“but seriously, diluc. you don’t have to do it. professor barnes will get the consequences of his actions soon enough. thanks for the offer, though; it’s appreciated.” a sigh escapes your lips as you lay your head to rest on the table, using your arms as a pillow. “i’m so tired," you mumble.
“you should rest for now," he says in a softer voice this time.
“don’t you have class after this?” you moved your head to his direction so you could look at him. diluc stares back at you. you had a few strands of hair covering your vision and diluc had to resist himself from brushing them away and tucking them behind your ear. “our prof just left us with an activity since she had an errand to do.” he said a bit late.
“are you done with it?” 
“not yet.”
“huh? why not?” your voice was a bit… muffled? or a bit hard to decipher because of your position. but diluc understood you word for word nonetheless.
“i guess you could say that i’m a bit lazy at the moment.”
“you? lazy? are you really the diluc ragnvindr that everyone loves and adores?”
“oh, shut it.” he playfully rolled his eyes at you with a smile.
not too long after, you dozed off. leaving you and diluc in a comfortable silence. no one was around the floor you guys were in as usual. this time, he finds the courage to brush those strands of hair away from your face.
it’s alright to be selfish every once in a while, right? he thought.
he glances at you and observes your sleeping figure. you looked peaceful as you slept. calm breaths came in and out of you. is it silly of him to think that you look so pretty right now, even though you were just napping? diluc couldn’t formulate the right words to describe you back then. but now he has one.
endearing.
everything that you do or say is just so… endearing to him. diluc didn’t know that one could have such an effect on him. hell, he didn’t even expect to fall in love in the first place. during his years in school, he was only surrounded by people who would fall in love. never did he expect that he would end up being included in its population.
but if he’s going to be honest? he wouldn’t ask for anything more.
time ticked by and diluc sat there by your side during your whole nap. he simply shot a text at one of his classmates, saying that he wasn’t feeling well (he thought of saying that he got diarrhea, but he thought that would be too exaggerated) and that he wouldn’t be able to accompany them on their errand. so maybe skipping is a bit worth it.
after all, he was with you. and that was enough for him.
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taglist (open): @ryuryuryuyurboat @g4bbyyy @kizakiss @quackimilktea @mochiboo123 @thystarsshine @cerisescherries @jamieexistss @the-ghost-0f-t0m0 @aethion @dottoreworld-page @naishite @sleepyeri @staaarhin @eroxotckv @kiyiiaarchived @fallenssun @lolmeowing @dorryx @astolary @kissingkzuha @axerrri @a1-ic3 @lottierulez @livelaughlovekuni @sorcerersseestars @whipped-for-fictionals @morganadorodo @briluvspnk @venderretta @xiaosoneandonly @angeilix @morgyyyyyyy @kazioli @the-massive-simp @qtange @tiredjxnna @yuminako @acheronie @sn1perz @akitokisser @siu-ssi @artri-ad @hyeinszn @saeskiss @bubblegum-angelquartz @boomie-123 @moni11032 @sandwichmyonetruelove @cherrybb-ily @itztaki @dontmindtheevie @hotgirlshit5 [1/2]
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crowwritesaway · 1 month
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Yandere Bucky Barnes x Reader Pt. 1
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“We can’t do this.” Bucky leaned closer to you. “Why not?” He whispered, staring at your lips. “Can you back up?” His scent was driving you up the walls. He smirked. “Why? Can’t think.”
You back away until you hit the couch. You avoided making eye contact with him. “Doll, what’s wrong?” He asked, smiling down at you. She’s so fucking cute. Irresistible.
“N-nothing.” You crossed your arms. “Sure, whatever you say.” You looked around the couch. Where is the remote? Maybe a movie will shut him up? He greedily stared at you. She knows how I feel. She has to feel the same way. He sat down next to you. “Here, sweetheart.” He gave you the remote. You grasped it. He laughed. “I can’t believe my eyes. Is my Y/N shy? Huh? Look at me.” He was amused. You took the control without glancing at him.
“No. Annoyed.” He put a hand over your head. “Sure. I can practically hear your heart.” He softly smiled at you. You furrowed your brow. I forgot about that. You shook your head. “Just watch the show.”
He didn’t move his eyes from you. “I’d rather do you. I mean, I’d rather watch you.” He bit his bottom hip. I meant every word. Waking up next to her is my dream. Oh, I could give you such sweet dreams, Y/N.
“Please, all this is boring me.” You replied. You felt flustered. What is up with him today? “Already begging. You see, you and I, we deserve each other. We belong together.”
“Best friend. Bucky.” You exhaled before looking his way. He looked at you with lustful eyes. You cleared your throat. “I have a date.” You said trying to catch his off guard. Bucky frowned. “Doll, you made an appointment with your doctor?” Certainly not a date with a man. My Y/N wouldn’t go one some lousy date. Not with some punk.
“Uh, never mind.” Bucky scooted closer to you. “Doll, answer me. What date? And with who?” You clicked your tongue. “Don’t be jealous. I’ll still have time for you.” Huh? No. I need all your time. I need your attention on me. Call me clingy. I don’t care. Bucky coldly laughed. “Doll. He has to go through me if he wants to date you.” You shot your head in his direction. “Since when?”
“Since we’re best friends. It’s my job to protect you. You can’t just date anybody.” He smiled. Rage was boiling in his stomach.
You rubbed your temple. I don’t even have a date. “When do I get to meet him?” Bucky clenched his fist. “Never.” He crossed his arms. “Why?” You sighed, leaning back into the couch. “Because I don’t have a date…yet.”
Bucky blinked. “I knew it!” He pulled you into a hug. “Hey!” You exclaimed. He snuggled up to you. “Yeah, whatever Mr. Protector. You should’ve seen your face.”
You laid your head on his shoulder. “You know eventually I’ll have to date.” Yeah, me. He laid his head in the her neck. He hummed. “When that day comes, I’ll tell you.” That day will come. And that date will be with me. Marriage. That pet you insist on having and our home away from chaos.
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Stay around for more of Yandere Bucky Barnes x Female Reader
Emergency Writing Commissions Open‼️
I have expenses (bills/groceries). If you can help, I would appreciate it. Sharing this also helps.
https://artistree.io/artbycrow
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spdrvyn · 3 months
Text
7 days until valentines
as compensation for my lack of posts, here's a short blurb of miguel with an autistic reader! i'm projecting really hard though
Miguel didn't know where the transition from his to 'our' workspace had begun. It was the little things, you'd leave a small cup with pens in it at his desk without bothering to pick it up after you leave his office. Eventually, that cup became a real pencil holder now you had journals, notebooks, and basically everything that wasn't work related neatly cornered into one part of his desk home with the scattered papers and unfinished gadgets Miguel has.
You also make home at his desk, efficiency was one of your strengths, but your productivity reached maximum capacity whenever you were with him. No words were spoken while the two of you worked, Miguel greatly appreciated it.
Not that he'd mind a little bit of small talk, but he enjoyed silence without feeling like the loneliness was clawing at his insides.
Though normally you (almost inhumanely) finished your work way earlier than he did, but you didn't leave. No, you didn't.
This habit of maintaining his presence while you're off doing something kept even when you were pursuing your own personal interests, Miguel would catch you on your laptop chatting to your friends whenever he had to check something on one of his monitors.
Other times, you'd have headphones on. Listening to music or catching up on one of your shows, your reactions are as muddled as they can be to not disturb. But one moment, he'll look away with you completely deadpan then look back to see your jaw widely agape and pupils blown wide from devastation.
Tonight was no different, if anything more convenient for you because a new episode of this unnamed media just dropped. Admittedly, your expressions and small noises entertained him as he worked. You did try to be discreet, but that super hearing of his could pick up on your small gasps and 'aww's on opposite sides of a workspace.
His concentration is broken when you practically slam your laptop shut, packing your earbuds into their case with an audible snap. You hop off of your place and solemnly walk over to where Miguel is standing, he quirks a brow at you.
Uncharacteristically, you slump your head against his shoulder with the biggest frown he's ever seen you in. "They're not getting back together, Miguel."
"Oh?" maybe feeding into your theatrics wasn't a smart decisions, but analytics dulled in comparison to whatever was going on inside your head. "Who?" he continued to interrogate.
"My only reason for light and happiness, my true inspiration for spreading love and joy across every corner of the multiverse." Miguel rolls his eyes. "Do not give me sass right now, I am so upset."
He genuinely can't tell if you're joking or not, perhaps a mix of both. "I don't get how I'm supposed to sympathize with this ex-couple when I don't even know the title of their story?"
"It's a cartoon. You'll laugh."
"Cartoon or animated?"
You quirk your eyebrow this time. "Huh?"
"I'm asking you, cartoon or animated? There's a difference, animated features aren't always classified as cartoons. Cartoon is more of a term for animated medias directed towards children. Aren't you the one more adept at this topic?"
He looks at you with an almost-smirk. It's teasing at his lips, full and plump. There are many sensations that you hold resentment for, but one you've always wanted experience is Miguel's lips against yours. The ultimate sensory triumph, all you've been waiting for.
God, you want to kiss him.
"Yeah, I- uh, animated. I mean, animated."
"Tell me about it when I'm not trying to keep the world from ending, please?" he grumbles, and you raise your head off of his shoulder. Damn right you'll tell him about it, and probably kiss him after too.
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notsoattractivearenti · 5 months
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Wanna Prove It? (Christian Pulisic x Fem!Reader)
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WC: 800+
Warnings/Tags: pure fluff
A/N: a short one cuz i need to get it out of my system lol. he really is gonna be a great dad one day to our children cuz christian and babies = 🫠😍💗💗💗! btw no it's not dad!pulisic (y'all gotta wait until christmas 😋). anyway hope you guys enjoy and i’d love to hear your thoughts thru ask/reply/reblog 💗 apologies for any errors! feedbacks are highly appreciated 🤍 (ps: if you want to be added in my taglist just lmk!)
Christian and I are having a chill night in, and we spend most of the night laying on our couch with TV on. He gets up into the kitchen to get us some ice cream while I scroll through my Instagram feed on my phone – until I stumble across a video posted by USMNT of Matt Turner and Tim Ream answering a couple of "dad" questions. Just in time, Christian walks back into the living room holding a pint of ice cream and two spoons in his hands.
“Babe, have you seen the video USMNT just posted on Instagram?”
“What video?” He replies.
I show the post to him briefly as he sits back and puts the ice cream and spoons on the table in front of us.
“Oh it’s Matt and Tim! I thought it was another VW video I did!” He laughs. “ I haven’t seen it. Let me have a look.”
“Watch it until the end, I think you’re going to love it.” I suggest as I hand my phone and grab the ice cream.
He watches the short clip and makes some little comments during. He isn’t aware at the moment but from my point of view, excitement is written clearly on his face. There’s no denying he genuinely loves his national teammates (or as he usually calls them: buddies) – he does have some wonderful bonds with most of them.
“Yeah, I can see Joe and Brenden being terrific dads.” He agrees with one of Matt’s answers on the video.
“Wh- Aww, stop it.” Christian slightly blushes when Matt stated Christian would be a great dad and Tim agreed with it. “They’re so nice for saying that.”
“I do love their kids. They’re adorable and sweet!” He excitedly adds. “Also, who doesn’t love to hold babies!?”
“People who don’t like babies, I suppose.” I spontaneously answer him with a mouth full of ice cream – even though he doesn’t ask for one.
“Well, I think they are missing out on one of the best things in the world.” He comments back and it makes me chuckle.
I want to get more reaction from him so I ask him, “Do you think they’re right? That you’re going to be a great dad?”
“Uh…” He pauses. “Do you?”
“Hey, I asked you first!” I jokingly point my finger at him. “Don’t turn it back at me.”
“I mean, I hope I will…” He shyly hesitates. “But I don’t know. I don’t want to sound so cocky...”
“I know you will.” I wink at him.
His face suddenly turns pinkish red but his eyes lighten up so quickly.
“Y/N…”
“Say what you want Chris, but you know I’m right.” I try to convince him.
“Maybe…” Though he sounds unsure, he still agrees with me. “You know, I’m glad you think that way.”
With a spoon still in my mouth, I give him a little smile and nod my head. “Mmhm, you’re most welcome.”
The conversation ends there and we go back to finishing our pint of ice cream - or so I thought.
“You wanna prove it?” He breaks the brief silence.
“Huh.” I think I know what he’s implying but I’m not quite sure. “Prove what?”
“We can make a baby right now and prove I’m capable of being a great dad.” He smirks as he gently grabs my shoulder, pulls me closer then whispers in my ear, “We don’t need to wonder no more…”
Yup. That is exactly what I thought when he said “prove it”. Now it’s my face that turns so red and I nearly choke on my ice cream when he whispered so seductively. Oh, he surely knows how to get me good – what a cheeky man my boyfriend is!
“Christian Mate Pulisic!” I playfully gasp. “You can’t be serious!”
“Do I look like I’m kidding?” He laughs seeing me so visibly flushed. “I am just offering something you and I both want, sweetheart.”
“Why are you so sure I want it?”
“Well, I mean, you literally talked about always wanting to have babies on our first date, didn’t you?” He states. “You can’t deny it. I remember every word you said, Y/N.”
“And I remember I specifically said one day when I’m finally ready, Chris!” I clarify his statement before he continues. “I am totally not there yet.”
“Okay, but you do want babies right? So my offer still stands.” He moves his eyebrows up and down while giving me a cheeky grin.
“Oh…” I cover my face and shake my head. “Of course but not now, babe! Besides, if I get pregnant today, it’ll be like… A teen pregnancy!”
“You’re in your 20s, Y/N!” He cackles at my remark.
“Still! I feel like I’m way too young to have a baby. I’m still one myself!” I jokingly whine.
“My God, Y/N, you are a baby.” He says sarcastically. “I’m just messing with you, my love.”
“I know, Chris, I’m not dumb.”
“Don’t worry, no need to rush, yeah? We can definitely wait.” He kisses my forehead. “‘Cause you’re the only baby mama I want.”
taglist: @pulisicsgirl @neverinadream @swimmingismywholelife @chilwellspulisic @bracedes @lovelynikol16 @thoseboysinblue @lizzypotter14 @masonsrem @landoslover
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Text
Look What You Made Me Do 1
Warnings: non/dubcon, and other dark elements. My username actually says you never asked for any of this.
Characters: Curtis Everett, ceo!reader
My warnings are not exhaustive but be aware this is a dark fic and may include potentially triggering topics. Please use your common sense when consuming content. I am not responsible for your decisions.
As usual, I would appreciate any and all feedback. I’m happy to once more go on this adventure with all of you! Thank you in advance for your comments and for reblogging.
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The conference room is set. An array of desserts sprawl across the table on trays, carafes of tea and coffee, ewers of juice, and a large jug of water. There's only one thing missing, aside from your employees. The most basic of necessities.
You search around for one of the cafe workers in their all black attire, the logo the only snatch of brightness on their being; a plume of smoke that reads Everett's. A venue recommended by several of your company members though you preferred the more corporate chain. You approach the man with the buzzcut and stubble along his jaw as sets tongs on each tray.
“Hello,” you greet him, crossing your arms. His grey blue eyes flick down at the gesture and back up. He offers an expression short of a smile. “I'm just hoping you have some cutlery. Oh, and napkins.”
“They're in the truck,” he checks his watch as he gives the monotone answer.
“Shouldn't they be up here?” You insist.
He sighs, “we're setting up. One thing at a time.”
You're taken aback by his tone. You're not in the habit of being mean to service workers but you expect more than his dismissive manner. You poke your tongue into your cheek and tilt your head.
“I understand, there's no need to be hostile,” you reproach.
“I'm not,” he takes another lid off a tray, “I'm just stating facts. You'll get your forks and knives.”
You lift your nose up. You don't like this man. He is too gruff for this business.
“Hmmm, well, thank you. I'll be sure to tell your boss how helpful you were,” you take out your phone as your words drip with sarcasm, “and so bubbly and nice.”
You scroll through your recent numbers. This was a lot of work, the type you don't usually make. The whole event was your idea, to show some appreciation for your employees, but it's left you entirely exhausted.
You hit the number you've been going back and forth with over numbers and arrangements. You step away with a trite smile and turn your back. You wait as the phone rings. It answers on the first.
“Everett's,” the short response, in double.
You blanch and hesitate to say anything more. That's odd.
“Uh, hello, I'm from–” you begin and stop again as the odd echo eeks you out. You turn and face the man with his phone in hand, the screen showing the call on speaker.
“So, you forget to order something?” The man asks.
You squint and approach him step by step. You scoff, “huh.”
“Look, I'll get the forks, happy,” he pinches a set of tongues in front of you, “if there's anything missing, I'll be more than happy to refund it.”
Your mouth pinches in irritation, “right.”
“Curtis Everett,” he drops the tongs on a tray and offers his hand, greeting you by your name.
You look at his hand and reluctantly shake it. His grip is tight, almost painful. You pull away, hiding your discomfort.
“Ma'am,” he smirks and turns on his heel.
You stand, speechless, watching him strut out. ‘Ma'am’? You… you aren't that old. Your grays aren't that bad. Are they?
You strut around the table. The coffee smells great. You pour yourself a cup of the dark roast and blow over the top. You wander around and take a careful sip. It is great coffee, you have to admit. At least to yourself.
“Locally roasted,” Curtis declares as he enters with a box under his arm. “In house, just like all our products.”
“Mm,” you lower the cup, your lipstick stained on the rim.
He puts down a tray and starts to load in bamboo cutlery from the box, nearly sorting it into the different sections.
“Bamboo?” You frown.
“Biodegradable,” he says without looking up, “we are local and sustainable.”
“I don't want splinters,” you sniff.
“Well, you could just use your hands,” he shrugs. “Or are you too good for that too?”
“Excuse me?”
“Listen, lady, I didn't come here to be treated like a dog. I came here to make sure everything was set up properly. I'm a business owner and I'm sure you know that means I could be doing something more important.”
“You could,” you agree.
“But I'm here. I'd call that attentive service,” he insists and flips the flap shut on the box, “you have a good day, ma'am. Maybe try some decaf.”
He walks back out and once more leaves you glaring
As good as the coffee is, it's not worth that man's ego.
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jo-harrington · 9 months
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Interview Prep (Eddie Munson x Store Manager!Reader)
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Pairing: Eddie Munson x Fem!Reader
Summary: Reader is worried about making a change to some routines.
Previous Part: Standard Operating Procedures 1.03
Warnings/Themes: AU where the Upside Down doesn't terrorize Hawkins. Reader works at the Claire's at StarCourt. Eddie works at TapeWorld. Mutual Pining and Slow Burn, Meeting the Family, Anxiety, Fluff
Note: Special thanks to @chestylarouxx @fracturedarkness and @courtingchaos for reading my snippets, listening to my rambling, and easing my nerves with this one. It's been in my drafts since February! And it's always kind of eluded me, but it's very special so I appreciate the time you took to help me out. So so much.
You can find my masterlist here for more featuring our resident Store Manager and all of my other writing.
Please do not interact if you are not 18+.
Enjoy!
---
“…and I swear the sound is so much better than my Fender. Like a thousand times better. I’m gonna need a new amp, I think. She is way too good for that hunk of junk that Rick got from his buddy way back when.”
“Uh huh.”
“God, I wish you could come to a show to hear it. Maybe...maybe I can ask Tom at the Hideout if our set could be a little later one night so you could come out after the store closed?"
"Sure."
“And then we could get pickle and bologna milkshakes at Benny's afterwards."
"Sounds great."
"Am I boring you?” Eddie finally stopped as he hit the button on the bailer and put his hands on his hips. "You're not even listening."
“What?” You freed yourself from your thoughts and got a good look at him. "I...what? No."
It was break time, which meant cardboard got crushed and garbage tossed before you ventured into the food court for something to eat. And on a day like today when your schedules aligned, that also meant your break was spent with your closest friend--only friend--in Hawkins.
And on any other day, you would have happily listened to his story.
Hell, you actually had listened to him...for most of it at least--he boasted about his new guitar, how he named her Sweetheart, and her first actual performance outside of Gareth's garage that had occurred the night prior--before you got too caught up in your own head.
It had been a normal Wednesday when you got to the store for your opening shift. The registers were counted, gate pushed up, and you were about to confidently post the new schedule.
Then the mail was delivered.
And with it, a larger envelope from home office that contained a very hefty packet inside.
Normally a package like that would make you happy; it was a sign that one of your favorite weeks of the year was approaching: planogram week. It was, quite honestly, not only your favorite week but your favorite part of the job altogether. More than your team, more than your discount...certainly more than helping customers.
Summer was coming to an end, which meant all of the trendy accessories would make way for backpacks, water bottles, notebooks, and lunch boxes. Things that stayed hidden away for 75% of the year, but were suddenly at the forefront of every parent and pre-teen's mind as they got ready to look their best on the first day of school.
Today, however, you suddenly felt a sense of dread as you opened the package because a planogram meant that you would have to schedule an overnight shift on the one night of the week that the mall closed early.
Sunday Night.
Date Night with Eddie.
Eddie's favorite night. And yours.
Your favorite part of your job encroached on what was becoming an essential part of your life.
So you spiraled until your break because it was easier to worry and overthink than it was to just...communicate the fact that you might have to miss a Sunday and face the possibility that Eddie could be mad at you.
Unfortunately he seemed a little steamed right now because he thought you hadn't been listening to him.
His little grumpy face was cute though.
Why was this harder than having to call your team to ask if they were ok with an unexpected overnight shift? God damn it, you needed to get a grip.
“You weren’t listening to anything I said,” he repeated.
“Yes I was,” you insisted.
“What did I say then?”
“You nailed the solo.”
“And…”
“And you actually got a round of applause.”
“And?”
“And you need a new amp.”
“And?”
“Uhm… a-and…”
Shit…maybe you had delved a little bit too far.
Growing up with a big, loud family--including an overbearing mother and two annoying brothers--meant you had the innate ability to split your brain in half and listen to them while also worrying about your own shit.
However, thanks to the intensity of your worrying, that ability failed you.
You wracked your brain for a good 30 seconds until Eddie’s scowl turned into a wicked smile, and then you knew he was just being a jerk.
“You’re the worst,” you grumbled at him.
“Excuse me,” he placed a hand on his chest in fake affront and stumbled back a few steps to collapse against the side of the trash compactor. “I'm the worst? You agreed to Pickle and Bologna milkshakes and ignored your best friend. Not very metal, sweetheart."
"I just have a lot on my mind." You shook your head and sighed. "Sorry."
"Well it's a good thing that I am a great listener. Unlike someone."
Eddie pushed himself off the compactor, put his hand on your shoulder, and guided you back inside to the food court. You got your meals of choice and tucked yourselves into a table in the corner by the JCPenney entrance.
"Alright," he started with his mouth full of fries. "Tell dear old Eddie what's bothering you."
You swallowed a mouthful of food and took a deep breath.
It was now or never.
"Well...there's this big thing coming up at work...planogram...uh...floor set," you began. "And it's really important and after it's done...we'll get visitors from corporate and my boss will probably make a few visits to see how it's going. I just want to do really well."
"Well, you've been doing a good job so far right?" Eddie shrugged. "Why wouldn't they think so now?"
"I don't know, I don't wanna mess it up," you admitted. "I'm a new store manager. And a lot of the team never worked retail before. I literally cried my first floor set as a sales associate. It's tough."
"You're just giving yourself the yips. I do it all the time when we add a new song to the set list."
"Don't just say that to make me feel better."
"Last week I forgot how to do a G-chord," he crossed his heart. "Scouts honor."
"You were a Boy Scout?" you asked skeptically.
"Stop distracting me." He popped another French fry in his mouth in an exaggerated fashion. "What else?"
"Well...we have to schedule floor sets on a Sunday."
"Ok."
"After the store closes."
"...Oh."
"Yeah."
Eddie sipped his drink thoughtfully and stared at you with his abyss-like eyes; they didn't betray a single thought going through his head and it made you nervous.
And nervous meant that you didn't shut up.
"I mean I don't want to have to cancel our night out," you started with the word vomit. "It's just the way things are always done and you'll see one day if you still work at Tape World for long enough, that's one of those things that...I don't know, if you try to do things differently it always comes back to bite you in the ass.
"And I'm young and whenever we have a conference call to talk about sales...my DM doesn't let me forget that I'm a baby compared to everyone else and it's so frustrating because I feel like I can't even suggest anything new because it immediately is dismissed as naive. It's like they keep waiting for me to fail. So I wish...I wish I could make a change so we could keep our plans. Like if it was anything else I could make it work but I...this thing I just can't, you know?
"But...but...b-because I would have to work on Sunday overnight I would probably be off another day so if you're ok with it we can do something else? Maybe on...I don't think I could get Tuesday off because of everyone's availability...maybe Friday if your friends are cool with me crashing your club night. Or...you open on Saturdays. We could do Saturday night instead?"
The punctuation to the drawn out sentence was your labored breath and Eddie noisily sucking the dregs of his soda through the straw. Shithead that he was didn't even have the decency to do anything but continue watching you with his big dumb cute eyes.
"Weeellllll..." he started in a sing-song tone and then paused and sucked at the straw some more.
Could he just tell you to fuck off already so this wouldn't be as painful as it was?
"That really sucks you need to work overnight," he finished his thought with a grin and shoved his cup to the side. "Being in the mall after hours...sounds kinda creepy. Do you think there are ghosts?"
"Are you kidding me right now?" you deadpanned. "You let me go on and on like that for nothing?"
"It was funny."
"I hate you."
"You cherish me."
"It was painful." You groaned. "Like I think I'm sweating. My heart hurts Edward."
"Don't act like you've never let me do that before," he scoffed and rolled his eyes in an exaggerated fashion. You threw a fry at him. "Don't start what you can't finish sweetheart. One fry can turn into a food fight and I would hate to find out the hard way why I'm Hawkins High's food fighting champion."
"Ok so...Saturday night?" you asked. "This Saturday...are you doing anything?"
"Uh..." Eddie hesitated and sat up a little straighter. "I mean...no hot dates or anything. What did you have in mind?"
"Maybe just what we normally do?" you suggested. "Drive around, eat a bunch of junk food. Or if you want to come over to my place and I--"
"So, I have a confession to make," he interrupted you. "I actually do have plans on Saturday. More like...standing plans than anything. My uncle Wayne is off on Saturdays and we've always watched reruns on TV and ordered pizza. Family night or whatever. My mom used to do the same thing so...Wayne thought it would be...I dunno, good for stability or something.
"It's silly but I don't want to just ditch him without asking," Eddie explained and your heart melted.
Of course you didn't want to take time away from his family; you knew how important his uncle was to him.
"Oh...well that's ok...we can rain check for another day then or--"
"Why don't you just come over?" Eddie asked. "He won't mind. I am opening this Saturday so I'll be done by 5; you can get there in time for Wheel of Fortune. That way he can't yell at me when I try to solve the puzzles with lewd words." He mimics, what you assume is, Wayne's voice.
Eddie looked so eager that you immediately agreed.
Your heart stopped in your chest though.
Come over? And meet his uncle?
Sure...you'd already met Benny a few weeks ago...and yeah you'd thought of it like meeting someone from Eddie's family but...this was his actual family. What if you insulted his uncle or...or made yourself look stupid.
You needed to put your best foot forward. Make a good impression.
"How about..." your mouth started moving before your brain could catch up. "...instead of ordering pizza, I cook for you guys instead? I'll be off Saturday since I'm doing the overnight on Sunday. I can just bring everything over."
Eddie's eyes lit up and as he teased you about the impressive cooking skills that you had supposedly boasted about previously, all you could think was...
How did this situation get even more stressful?
---
The rest of the week leading up to Saturday had been overwhelming to say the least.
To you, food was life. Cooking for someone was everything that you could do to show them that you cared. How many hours had you spent with your grandma making cookies for neighbors at Christmas, or freezer meals when a distant relative had a baby, or a tray of something after a friend of the family had passed.
Food was love and friendship, and as much as what you had done for Eddie with the guitar had been a show of friendship...this meant so much more.
So you needed to hit a home run...or a bullseye...or whatever sports terminology signified that you won.
Which meant you'd spent some down time flipping through your grandma's old recipes that she had gifted you once upon a time--a thin, pocket-sized spiral notebook with a purple cover that was filled with her illegible handwriting and personal shorthand--and thinking of ideas that would be both impressive and hearty. You'd already changed your mind twice, and had made just as many trips to Bradleys for extra ingredients.
You'd also pestered Eddie several times through the course of the week to get his input without giving anything away.
"Does your uncle like cheese?"
"Of course he does."
"Some people don't."
"Would we get pizza every Saturday if we didn't like cheese?"
"There's some pizza that doesn't have cheese."
"Why the questions? Are you nervous sweetheart?"
And that was when he started to tease you. Every chance he got. Lunches, breaks, passing you on the way to the employee lot as you started a shift and he ended one.
He asked if you wanted their phone number so you could call Wayne and make kissy noises at each other for hours, if you wanted him to bring love letters home to save on stamps, and if you were planning to dress really nice for your date with his uncle.
"I'll be sure to grab extra chapstick for him so his lips are ready for you tomorrow," he laughed and leaned closer to make the biggest, noisiest smacking kiss noise in your ear as you waited for your break time cookies.
"You're an idiot," you rolled your eyes after he uttered the last one. "I don't want him to hate me because...what if he doesn't want me to hang around you anymore. I'd kind of lose my mind."
"Oh, uh," Eddie backed away a little bit and rubbed the back of his neck, then shoved his hands in his back pockets. "Wayne wouldn't do that. He's...a little bit of a grump, but he's harmless."
"Guess we know where you got it from," you muttered.
"I didn't know you were...actually worried," Eddie continued. "I'm sorry. But it'll be ok. Even if you...wore a potato sack and brought canned beans that we had to heat on the stove for dinner. He'll think you're great. Because you are."
You were both a little silent after that, Eddie staring at his feet bashfully as you felt your heart race and your head spin.
You finalized your plans that night when you got home and immediately started on your dessert, sure that it was all gonna be a hit with both Munsons.
It was gonna be great. Because Eddie thought you were great.
And Saturday, the doubt didn't creep on you at all. Not while you cooked, not as you packed your casserole dish and Tupperware into a large cooler bag, and not even as you drove across town, following Eddie's directions to Forest Hills without getting lost once.
It wasn't until you stepped out of your car and stared at the front door that you felt your stomach drop a little.
Those four cement steps might as well have been a thousand.
But...your sneakers only needed to crunch on the gravel before the door was thrown open and a slightly-breathless Eddie smiled at you...and then all the worry disappeared.
"Hey," he greeted. "D-did you need any help?"
"Yeah, if you don't mind," you shrugged.
He jogged down the steps in socked-feet and crossed to the passenger's side door of your car, talking a mile a minute as he reached in to grab your things.
"I, uh, got home an hour ago," he rambled. "The A/C at the store conked out...and then Paulie had me make a trash run before I left. Had a big shipment today. So if I'm still a little sweaty...that's why."
"You're fine," you laughed.
"Sorry."
"Don't worry. I've been cooking so I'm probably a little sweaty too. Lasagna and July...sort of don't go together that well."
He raced up the steps and held the door open for you.
"Lasagna? Oh the old man is gonna love you," Eddie chuckled.
You entered the Munson abode and were immediately hit by the strongest sense of home that you'd felt since...well, since you'd still been at home. Not necessarily that it was a place where you belonged, but...it was a place of belonging.
Mugs and hats and other memorabilia lined the walls, reminiscent of the tchotchkes that your mother stacked to high heaven on every available surface. The couch was a little faded but looked comfortable and soft as though you could sink into the cushions and disappear into a soft nether-realm.
Your grandpa had a couch like that. His spot sunk to the shape of his body. It was still your favorite place to sit when he wasn't already there. It was like a hug.
That was when your eyes found the armchair, molded around the shape of the man seated in it. He was older, a little weathered and greying, hairline receding, and even though he isn't smiling right now, the lines around his mouth were indication enough that he smiled quite a bit.
Just like his nephew.
"Uh, Wayne this is my friend from the mall," Eddie introduced you as he juggled your cooler bag and your large Tupperware to the kitchen counter. "The one I told you about. Works at the jewelry store."
"Nice to meet you," you smiled and held a hand out to him to shake. He took your hand in a firm grasp and as you shook his the way your grandfather taught you--to command respect and trust--his eyes narrowed.
"I had to hear about you through Rick, who heard about you through Benny," Wayne started. "And I haven't the slightest idea why my nephew thought he needed to keep you a secret; not the first girlfriend he's brought around--"
Eddie groaned something unintelligible from the kitchen and you fought the urge to break eye contact with Wayne so you could look at him.
"--but I just watched him run around for the past hour tidying up. And he's never done that before. So if you can help him keep the habit, you're alright in my book." Wayne smiled widely and let your hand go.
"Thank you," you chuckled nervously, suddenly realizing how silly it had been that you were even worried in the first place.
Eddie had been right.
You could never admit that to him.
"Even did the dishes," Wayne looked past you at Eddie. "He never does the dishes."
"W-we're having dinner," Eddie whined. "Gotta have clean plates."
The two of them bantered back and forth comfortably and you joined Eddie in the kitchen to get everything plated. There was a salad, buttery mashed potatoes, and of course your still-warm and gooey lasagna.
Eddie explained that it was Wayne's favorite that he rarely got to have homemade--
"Stoffers will do in a pinch," Wayne explained.
--and that you were already more loved than he was simply for making it, to which Wayne agreed. And he even pointed out the well-loved Garfield mug that he had gotten Wayne for Father's Day one year for that fact alone.
Eddie tried to protest when you took the dessert bowl from him to stow it away in the fridge until it was the appropriate time.
"I didn't even get to have cookies with you today," he reasoned. "Or a soda. See? I suffer when you're not working. How am I--a growing boy--supposed to reach my fullest potential without proper sustenance?"
You snorted and brought the plates out to the living area while Eddie trailed behind you.
"He's just grumpy because you're making him eat vegetables," Wayne chuckled as he took his plate. "A feat I have yet to achieve in 8 years. So if you weren't already in my good books, you are now."
Dinner passed relatively uneventfully at first. You and Eddie sat on the couch--which was just as comfy as you thought it would be--as Wayne occupied the armchair. They inhaled their first helping and showered you with compliments. Eddie begrudgingly admitted that your cooking was as good as you had bragged, and even said the dressing on your salad "wasn't Ranch but was still pretty tasty."
As Eddie had told you days ago, Wheel of Fortune started promptly at 7:30 and he and Wayne tried to solve as many puzzles as possible around mouthfuls of food. They teased each other when their guesses were particularly ridiculous, and celebrated when they got one right.
You solved a long puzzle correctly--your only contribution to their little competition--before there were very many tiles revealed on the board and Eddie patted your thigh in praise when you got it right with a soft "that's my girl" that nearly had you drop your plate.
When Wheel ended, Wayne stood up to grab seconds for himself and Eddie and a couple of beers for you all. Before he sat back down he grabbed a tape from a basket beside the television and popped it into the VCR.
"I hope you don't mind," he said sheepishly. "I like the background noise and Love Boat doesn't start til 9."
As the static on the screen cleared, you were treated to a good look of a Map to Illustrate the Ponderosa in Nevada.
"Mind? I love Bonanza," you laughed, and Eddie groaned beside you.
"No I already have to endure Wayne and Rick and their western reruns, and now you too?"
Conversation then turned to you. Turned to the usual stuff that you talked about when you met someone new. And you really...didn't like talking about yourself. The middle child and the only girl with two strong-willed brothers and parents that liked to pick and pick and pick at every imperfection; it was ingrained in you.
Thankfully, Eddie seemed to really like to talk to you, at you, about you.
"I work at Claire's. We do like...ear piercing and cute accessories for kids."
"She works there? She's the store manager. And the youngest one in the company. Right? Is that...no...in the district. Anyway..."
And where you faltered, he picked up the reins.
"I mean it's just community college. Everyone graduates. I'm not smart or anything."
"Are you shitting me right now? Sweetheart I can't even graduate high school."
Eagerly.
"And there was this one time, I shit you not Wayne," Eddie's hands mimed as he tried to tell his story. "She literally balanced on one foot on the top rung of a ladder. Had to have been...20 feet high...to get this kitten that was stuck on top of the bailer. How it got there? I couldn't tell you."
"It was not the top rung."
"It was."
"It wasn't 20 feet!"
"Let me tell the story."
"I'm supposed to be telling the story," you laughed at him.
"Ok, you're right, but you weren't telling it good enough," Eddie argued. "You have to emphasize."
"He means fib," Wayne clarified.
"I mean...bend the truth for entertainment purposes only," Eddie explained rapidly.
Eventually dinner was done and it was time for dessert, which Eddie eagerly followed you into the kitchen for.
"How am I doing?" you asked nervously as you rummaged in the fridge.
"You're doing great. How many times do I have to tell you he would like you?" he huffed good-naturedly.
"I don't know, I just needed reassurance."
"Are you kidding me?" he scoffed. "You're doing great. I'm sure he'll be asking me when the next time you'll be over is so he can maybe get some more lasagna. He doesn't just let anyone watch A Rose for Lotta with him. You're special."
"Am I?"
"You're special to me."
You looked up at Eddie a little shocked and he smiled sheepishly and shrugged.
You couldn't get your hopes up. You just...couldn't.
"What's taking so long in there?" Wayne asked as he ejected the tape from the VCR so he could flip to ABC. You both looked over and found him watching you with a smirk and a twinkle in his eye.
"I dunno," Eddie replied petulantly. "Someone's withholding my reward."
You rolled your eyes and grabbed another set of plates from the drying rack by the sink. You opened your container to reveal the fluffy green mounds of pudding and whipped cream and marshmallows studded with bright maraschino cherries.
"Sweetheart, you didn't," Eddie grabbed you by the shoulders and leaned over to look into the Tupperware.
"I did," you beamed.
The perfect end to a great night.
Because you might not have known that lasagna was Wayne's favorite.
But you knew that Watergate salad was Eddie's.
---
It was late by the time Eddie walked you out to your car, way past your usual bedtime, and later than you should have been up especially considering that you would be doing the overnight tomorrow.
The dessert had been consumed in its entirety; once you and Wayne had your fill, Eddie ate the remainder out of the bowl looking, quite literally, like a kid in a candy store. And as Captain Stubing and Doc Bricker bickered aboard the Pacific Princess, you began dozing on Eddie's shoulder.
He shook you awake and you said your goodbyes to Wayne.
"You're welcome anytime," he insisted as you headed to the door. "Lasagna or no. Don't let Ed trick you into spoiling us. He's still young but my waistband can't handle it."
And now you were standing with Eddie, the driver's side door between you as you sort of refused to get in and drive away. It was a real Midwest Goodbye.
"I'll see you at work..." you fumbled over your words as you tried to think of the next time you'd actually get to see him. You had the overnight tomorrow, and you'd be off Monday. Eddie would be off Tuesday which meant... "Oh god, well...Wednesday? That seems so far away."
"It doesn't have to be Wednesday," Eddie shrugged. "What if I brought you breakfast on Monday? After your floor set is over?"
"God that's gonna be so early for you," you dismissed his idea.
"So? You just made us the best dinner and there's leftovers for a few days, which you didn't want. Let me get you breakfast."
"I don't want to put you out."
The two of you bickered back and forth for a minute before you put your foot down and told him to sleep in because he had to close on Monday night.
"Thanks though," you said. "This was nice. Family dinner at home. It was really nice. Makes me a little homesick but...I guess Hawkins is my home for now."
"Hey, of course, any time," Eddie replied. He looked pensive for a second and then turned so he didn't have to look at you. Like he was hesitant about what you would say or think. "We don't...I mean I guess what I mean is...I really enjoy hanging out on Sundays and I know this is sort of a one-off thing. But...you know we don't only have to hang out on Sundays. We can do...I mean...have dinner again sometimes or meet you after work even if I'm off...or see a movie again...get something from Family Video or..."
"You wanna hang out with me more?" you cut into his rambling.
"Yeah, why not?"
"Friends hang out all the time but..." You shrugged. "Don't...skip out on...I mean I guess I don't know what it is you do with the guys outside of band practice and DnD. Don't skip out on them just for me."
"No, hey now, wait," Eddie held his hand out to stop you. "Those turds already see me all the time and are gonna see me more once school's back in session. And...I'll probably work less so...I'll take any time with you now that I can get."
"Alright." You beamed.
"Alright." He mirrored you. "More non-Sunday hangouts."
You agreed and he held out his pinky. You immediately hooked yours into it.
“See you Wednesday sweetheart,” Eddie said his farewell. “Don’t dream of me too much.”
---
"Alright guys, it's almost 7am, time to clean up," you announced to your overnight crew with a clap of your hands.
It had been a fun but trying night, but ultimately successful.
Saturday had been perfect but your whole Sunday routine had already been thrown off and you spent a majority of your day sleeping and cleaning and wondering what Eddie was getting up to at work.
As you predicted, everyone was more than a little confused by the planogram booklet but you were a patient teacher. Everyone thought they had an eye for store layout until they were faced with twenty shipment boxes of pencil cases and locker decor. You had to talk a few of them down from near-panics several times throughout the night.
Over the course of the floorset, side ponytails became even more askew than normal, a few pairs of shoes got kicked into a pile by the gate, and everyone turned into tired, sweaty messes.
To keep morale up, you had insisted on everyone bringing a favorite tape that alternated in the shop radio and you had stocked up at Bradley's with an assortment of sugary snacks and drinks for the break room. Thankfully, the treats had prevented anyone from bursting into tears or threatening to quit, as you had witnessed countless times during your time working in retail.
You really channeled Eddie's sweet tooth when making your choices and it had paid off.
But after 12 hours of unpacking, stacking, dusting, shifting, and sliding, you were all ready to go home.
You ushered everyone out of the store and locked the gate behind you, and as the group walked toward the employee exit, excitement had returned. Pride for a seemingly-impossible task completed.
"The store looks so good! Mindy is gonna shit herself when she comes in to open."
"Oh my god, do you think we're gonna have a store visit? Can you let me know what they think of the hair wall?"
"We're gonna make so many sales! Who can say no to that unicorn backpack?"
You entertained their conversation but when you set foot outside and saw a familiar van parked next to your car, you lost all ability to speak.
He had said he was gonna surprise you with breakfast...but you told him not to. Of course he didn't listen; it had you rolling your eyes in annoyed amusement.
God you knew everyone was a gossip, this was gonna get to Mindy and then she was gonna give you an earful. She already let you have it when she heard about your invitation to dinner.
You quickly thanked your team and ushered them to their cars before you meandered towards yours. You ignored the questioning looks that they shot you as you hesitated to get into your car but you waved goodbye as they drove away.
When the last car left the lot, you immediately stormed over to the passenger's side door of the van and threw it open to find a McDonald's bag on the seat, two coffees in the cupholders, and a tired-eyed Eddie in the driver's seat. His fingers tapped on the steering wheel in time with Kiss's Beth.
"I'm always somewhere else," he turned his upper body towards you dramatically and began serenading you. "And you're always there alone."
"Unbelievable," you scoffed at him.
"Just a few more hours and I'll be right home to you. I think I hear them calling. Oh Beth what can I do?" He slapped his hands against the steering wheel dramatically. "Beth what can I do?"
You climbed into the passengers seat, closed the door behind you, and opened the McDonalds bag to the delightful smell of hot, fresh, crispy hash browns and egg McMuffins.
"If it's not obvious," Eddie announced as he reached across the van to shove his hand into the bag for a hash brown of his own. "I'm Beth in this scenario because you left me alone for hours and hours and hours last night."
"Oh yeah?"
"Yeah I got into all sorts of trouble."
“I told you not to bring breakfast.”
“I wanted to surprise you.”
"You didn't need to come if you were tired."
"I wanted to and I pretty much do whatever I want anyways," he insisted, and then thankfully focused on his food as you felt your face heat up.
"Well, if you'd like to know, me and the boys were not actually playing all night," you remarked and dug the sandwiches out of the brown bag. You handed one to Eddie, whose mouth was already full of salty, potatoey goodness after he'd shoved the hash brown in one piece. His cheeks were all round and full like a chipmunks and you held back a giggle.
God he was too cute. And he brought you breakfast after a long overnight shift. And he had called you his girl and told you you were special. How were you supposed to stop yourself from having a crush on him if this was...just how he was?
The two of you got to talking about your night, about his Sunday shift, about what you did before work, about what he did after it. And it was nice.
And as you sat there watching him slurp the hot coffee and watch the sparse traffic around the mall dive, you finally found the right words and the strength not to make an absolute fool of yourself.
"This was really nice of you, Eddie. You're wonderful."
He put his hand on his chest and looked a little sheepish.
"I'm wonderful?"
"You're wonderful to me."
---
Next Part: Corrective Action
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tightjeansjavi · 1 year
Text
𝕓𝕝𝕦𝕖 𝕛𝕖𝕒𝕟𝕤 𝕟’𝕋𝕖𝕩𝕒𝕤 𝕕𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕞𝕤
𝕡𝕒𝕣𝕥 𝟚
♡ 𓃗 ♡
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Pre! Outbreak Joel x horseback riding instructor f!reader
A/N: I did not plan for this to be over 4k words. LOL enjoy ♡
~word count : 4.3k~
Summary: Joel Miller, single father; total soft dad has an astronomically enormous crush on you, his daughters horseback riding instructor.
Warnings: soft! Joel, shy! Joel, fluff, flirting, slow burn, eventual established relationship, single! Father Joel, protective! Joel, he’s so sweet your teeth will hurt! Joel, eventual smut, some angst, no y/n, +18 minors dni !
blue jeans playlist:
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Austin, Texas
It was around 2:30 the next afternoon that Joel Miller had given you a ring. You were on your well deserved lunch break after Javi P put you through absolute hell. Why you thought it was going to be an easy hack session with him, was beyond you. Javi P never made anything easy, but you were determined to show this horse some good in his life. He’d been through hell in the racing industry, and it left a bad taste in your mouth just knowing how disposable he and his brother were to their old owners.
When your ringtone blared, you nearly lost hold of your sandwich as you grabbed your phone, answering it on the second ring.
“Hey darlin’ it’s Joel; Joel Miller. The uh–the guy who called ya yesterday about getting his daughter some ridin’ lessons?”
You honest to god thought it was fucking adorable that Joel even thought for a minute that you weren’t gonna remember him. You most definitely had not been thinking about this man all day after your phone call. No way, that definitely wasn’t you.
“Hey, Joel! I take it I left a good impression on you yesterday?”
He chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck as he was parked in front of Sarah’s school, waiting for her. “Yeah, you uh–most definitely did. Anyway, i’m waitin’ to pick my daughter up and then we were gonna head over, if that still works for you?”
“Oh, perfect! Yeah, that still works for me! I’ll meet you out front when you get here, and then we’ll do the tour, sound good?”
“Sounds like a plan to me. Just wanted to y’know check in and make sure that I wasn’t inconveniencing you or anythin’ like that.”
“Well, I appreciate you calling, but I hate to break it to you, I don’t do much around here for you to be inconveniencing me.”
“I’m sure that ain’t true. You seem to uh–really enjoy what you do, which is hard for a lot of folks to say. Don’t sell yourself short, and just from our conversation yesterday, can tell that you really care about the horses, even when you’re threatenin’ to turn one of ‘em into glue.”
You let out a light laugh, biting the tip of your nail because woo doggy, Joel Miller was a total fucking sweetheart in your books, and you still hadn’t met this man in person.
“Thanks, Joel. I appreciate you saying that. You’re not gonna let me live down the glue thing, huh?”
“Anytime, darlin’ and oh, no I will not be letting you live that one down.” He looked out the driver side window when he saw Sarah walking up and he reached over, unlocking the passenger side door for her. “Hey, Sarah just got outta school, S’okay that she’s not like in uh–proper ridin’ stuff?”
“Oh, yeah that’s fine! Jeans and a t-shirt are the most comfortable option. We’ll get her fitted for a helmet as well, if you guys end up choosing our place that is.”
“Oh, sweet. Didn’t know if there was like a strict attire or anythin’ like that and I got a good feelin’ that we’re gonna be seein’ a lot more of each other.”
“Nah, we’re not like the hunter jumper barns. As long as she has closed-toed shoes, she’s good.” Your heart may or may not have skipped a beat when Joel Miller casually stated that he had a feeling you were going to see each other a lot more. Damn these southern charm Texas men.
“Alright, awesome. Pickin’ her up now, see ya in a bit!”
“See you in a bit, Joel!”
He hung up just as Sarah had climbed into the passenger seat and buckled herself in.
“Who were you on the phone with?” She took notice that her dad had a slight blush to his cheeks and she couldn’t help but grin and give him a little shoulder punch.
“Just got off the phone with your potential new ridin’ instructor. I think you’re really gonna like her, kiddo. She seems pretty cool.”
“You’re blushing dad, you know that? Right here!” She playfully poked his dimple.
“Am not! Just a little hot in here. Sweatin’ bullets.”
“Sureeeee it’s just the heat, you’re so right!”
He gave his daughter a playful warning look while he reached over and ruffled her head of curls.
“I ain’t blushin’ I don’t blush!”
“Okaaay dad, whatever you say!”
Joel Miller was not blushing. Like he said, he doesn’t blush. It was just the hot Texas air that had him feeling all flustered.
You quickly finished what was left of your sandwich, checking the time as you tidied up your desk. You grabbed your phone and slipped it back into your jeans pocket as you headed out of the makeshift office, and into the aisle way of the stalls.
“Listen up fellas, we have a potential new client coming through in about 20 minutes, and i’m expecting all of you to be on your very best behavior.” You looked directly at Javi P as you spoke. “Yeah bud, I'm talking to you specifically. We are NOT biting any kids today, alright?”
Javi P looked displeased, and if horses had hands, he would most definitely would be flipping you off right now.
You spent the next 20 minutes sweeping the aisle way, wanting everything to look presentable as possible. You heard the sound of truck tires under loose gravel and you just had a feeling it was Joel Miller.
“Alright boys, it's showtime!”
Sarah was telling her dad another horse fact from her book when they were getting out of his truck. “Dad, this one is super cool! Did you know that horse hooves are made from the same protein as human hair and fingernails? That’s one big finger nail!”
Joel had let out a laugh, his eyes crinkled up a bit in the corners as he shook his head. “Think that protein is called keratin? Sounds about right to me.”
“Keratin! Yeah, that’s what it's called!”
He observed the area then and took notice of the blooming flowers in the front of the stables, and the overall comforting vibe this place had. He could hear the familiar sound of a horse whinnying. The distinct barn smell didn’t even have him turning up his nose, and in a way, he found it oddly comforting.
His head turned in the direction of the door opening as you stepped outside. You were wearing light washed jeans that definitely were well worn, a loose graphic tee, Star Wars to be specific. The fabric was faded, but he could make out the image of two X-Wings. So, you were a nerd too, just another added bonus.
Your jeans were a bit dirty from your fall off of Javi P earlier, and you were certain that your hair probably looked insane, but Joel wasn’t expecting you to walk out in a mini skirt and stilettos, that was damn sure.
“Joel? Hey, nice to put a face to the name!” You held your hand out to him and he grasped it in his larger one. He had a firm grip, and his palms were well worn, a little calloused. Not that you were paying attention to those little details or anything.
He was undeniably handsome. A tall fucking glass of water, as you would describe him to your friends later over drinks. He had deep, warm, inviting brown eyes, a good structured jaw, and a killer smile. One that would definitely make any girl weak in the knees.
Joel already knew what you looked like from your bio on the website, but in person? You were even prettier. Joel had been so focused on his job, and caring for his daughter, that he never really saved any room for himself. He hadn’t gone on a proper date in god knows how long, but he just had a feeling that maybe you were gonna change that for him.
He smiled as you shook hands before he gestured to his daughter, wrapping his arm around her shoulder.
“Hey, nice to meet ya! This is my daughter Sarah. Newly horse obsessed as you already know.”
Sarah swatted at her dad’s arm playfully and stuck her tongue out at him. “Dad, don’t embarrass me!”
You couldn't help but laugh as you watched their interaction. It was clear Joel and his daughter were very close. “There’s nothing to be embarrassed about kiddo. I, too, am horse obsessed. Would even go as far to say that I am horse crazy.”
Sarah let out a huff, crossing her arms over her chest with a small smile. “Yeah, okay. Guess there is nothing to be embarrassed about. Horses are pretty freaking cool!”
You nodded. “They are super freaking cool! You guys wanna head in and I'll give you a tour?”
Sarah was already grabbing her dad’s hand as you led the dad daughter duo inside the main building.
“We’ve been in business for a little over a decade now. We’re family owned and a non-profit and all of the horses here were rescued from various situations. We focus heavily on good horsemanship skills, positivity and creating a safe, judgment free zone. We currently have 6 horses at our facility. All at different skill levels, but 5 out of the 6 are extremely beginner friendly.”
Joel had his hands shoved in his jean pockets as you spoke, he was attentively listening to everything you were saying.
“Did you rescue them all yourself?” He asked.
“Yep, every single one of them. Not all at once, but I'd get a tip from someone in the business about an upcoming auction, or abandoned barn, and I'd be there. I’ve traveled across the country for a couple of them, and I wish I could rescue every horse, but I do what I can y’know?”
“I understand. It’s great that you’ve given ‘em a second chance at life and a fresh start.”
You held the door open for them as you led them into the aisle way where the stalls were located. “Yeah, I agree with you. They deserve so much more than to just be thrown away like that. These boys are some of the luckier ones.”
All 6 of the horses had stuck their heads out of their stall doors to see who was coming and Sarah’s little heart was already melting.
“So like I was saying, we have 6 horses currently. Their names are Frankie, Dieter, Whiskey, Javi P, Javi G, and finally, Ezra.”
You brought them over to the first stall which was Frankies. He was a bay, tobiano paint. He had one blue eye, and one brown eye. You leaned against the side of his stall door as he peeked his head out over the side, nickering softly at you.
“This is Frankie, he’s our newest recruit. Just actually picked him up from Utah a little over a month ago.” You gave him a gentle pat on the neck. “He’s about 20 years old, in horse years and he’s a sweetheart. He was a little girl’s birthday present and he was well loved up until he spooked one day. She fell off and broke her arm and her parents deemed him to be ‘unsafe.’ He would have been on his way to Mexico if it wasn’t for me. I’m working on doing some desensitizing training with him as he doesn’t handle loud, sudden noises very well. He loves kids though.
Sarah frowned as she listened to you talk about Frankie and what would have almost happened to him.
“It wasn’t his fault that he spooked, right?”
“No kiddo. It’s never the horses fault and we gotta remember that their prey animals. If they feel like they’re in danger, or threatened, their natural instinct is to run.”
“Can I pet him?”
“Course you can. Here, he’ll love you forever if you give him one of these.” You reached into your pocket, pulling out a carrot and snapped it in half, handing her the one piece. “You’re gonna want to hold your hand out flat, tuck your thumb under your fingers cause you don’t want him accidentally biting them.”
Sarah nodded as she walked to his stall door, holding the carrot out to Frankie like you said and when he had licked her hand as he grabbed the carrot, she let out a soft giggle.
Joel had the softest fucking smile on his face just from seeing his baby girl happy like this.
“Next we have Dieter. This guy? He’s a little trickster and he’s pretty damn good at it. Loves to steal things out of your pockets if you’re not careful. I’ve caught him nearly escaping at least a dozen times. Had to really get creative with the locks on his stall. He used to be a lesson horse at a hunter jumper barn not far from here. The schooling shows really started to wear him down and they felt like he was useless after that.”
“Woah, he has a mohawk! That’s so cool! What kind of horse is he?” Sarah asked.
“He’s a Norwegian Fjord. He’s in between the size of a standard horse and a large pony. They typically have longer manes but due to the weather, we keep his trimmed so he doesn’t overheat. Plus, I think he enjoys having a mohawk, wouldn’t you say?”
Sarah didn’t hesitate to give Dieter a soft stroke on the side of his neck and she looked back at her dad with a small grin.
“I think he looks very punk rock, whad’ya think dad?”
“Very punk rock. He pulls it off pretty well I think.”
Whiskey, who’s stall was next to Dieter’s, was pawing impatiently at the ground.
“Ahh yes, good old Whiskey boy. He can be a bit of a handful at times, but he has a super smooth gait due to his breed.”
“When you talk about a horse's gait, are you uh–are you talkin’ about their movement? What makes him different from the rest?” Joel asked.
You looked over at him with a smile and nodded. “Yeah, that’s right. Their gait is their natural movement. Whiskey is a Tennessee Walking Horse, and his natural gait differs between a flat walk, running walk, and a canter. He’s best suited for the trails and easy flat work. This guy was rescued from the ‘Big Lick’ industry. His gait is naturally high stepping but to enhance it for shows, trainers would use chains, heavy boots, and chemicals on his fetlocks in order to have him step higher. The practice is considered cruel, for obvious reasons, but people get away with it often. He went lame at one point and was thrown into auction.”
Joel had frowned as he listened to Whiskey’s story. It left a bad taste in his mouth that people could be so cruel to an animal like that.
“So, these guys really have been through hell, huh?”
“Unfortunately they have. Trust me, I get angry just thinking about what they went through.”
“Well, they’re certainly lucky that they have you, darlin. I like his coat color. That’s the proper term ain’t it?”
You almost felt a blush creep up your neck when he called you darlin again. At least you could blame it on the sweltering heat. Not because of Joel Miller and his smooth Texas drawl.
“Coat color is the correct term, yeah. He’s a dappled palomino. I call him honey sometimes because of his color, and because he’s as sweet as honey. A little bit of a flirt as well, a ladies man you might say.”
“He definitely gives off the ‘pretty’ boy vibes.” Joel said with a chuckle.
Before he, or Sarah could walk to the next stall, you put your arm out in front of them protectively, just as Javi P had lunged his head out, with his ears pinned back against his head, baring his teeth.
“I told him to be on his best behavior but I swear, this horse never listens.”
Joel was more focused on your soft grip on his bicep to even process the angry beast in front of them.
“Is this the horse you threatened to turn into glue yesterday?” Joel asked in a joking manner.
Sarah let out a shocked gasp.
“Don’t worry, kiddo. I wasn’t actually gonna turn him into glue. He just isn’t the friendliest as you can see.” You gently released Joel’s bicep from your grip. “This is Javi P, he’s an OTTB, better known as an off the track thoroughbred. He was gonna make it big in Kentucky and would have sold for millions if it wasn’t for his accident. His jockey was well known for, to put it lightly, and please excuse my French, an asshole. This guy was too young to even be on the track. His bones weren’t even fully formed, nor able to withstand the pressure. He wiped out on a mud track a year ago, and knocked his jockey out. If they would have given him more time, and switched Jockey’s, he probably would have had a successful racing career.”
“I take it he doesn’t trust humans very well because of that? I mean, I sure as hell wouldn’t.”
“He’s incredibly weary of men especially. It’s really unfortunate because I know underneath all his meanness, there’s a really good horse. I’ve just been trying to chip away at his rough exterior, bit by bit. He threw me off earlier this morning, but it was my fault. Lost my footing in the stirrup and he flipped.”
“Jesus, are you alright?”
“Me? Oh, yeah I'm good. I’ve experienced a lot of falls in my life. Just comes with the job honestly.”
“Just about how many times have you fallen off? If ya don’t mind me askin’ that is.”
“Oh gosh, uhhh I'm not sure if I can count them on both hands. At least 20. Maybe a little less than 50. It happens but the main thing is, I've gotten back on everytime.”
“Woah, you’ve fallen off that many times and you aren’t scared or anything? Okay, my dad was totally right, you are so cool!”
Now you were actually feeling flustered, and Joel might have been as well but you couldn’t exactly tell. “I was definitely scared the first few times and I was afraid to get back on, but I pushed through it. What’s this about me being totally cool? Your dad is right on the money with that one, I am the coolest.”
Joel cleared his throat a little while he rubbed the back of his neck.
“Alright, I will admit that I told Sarah you were cool. I mean, you left an impression on me after our phone call, and you know so much about horses so yeah, I’d say you’re pretty cool.”
Sarah gave her dad a funny look then, only one that he could see.
“Is Javi G related to Javi P?” She asked, walking up to the other chestnut thoroughbred and he had lowered his head down towards her, brushing his soft, velvet nose against her palm.
“Yep, they’re brothers with totally opposite personalities. Javi G was let go because he was deemed to be too “sweet” for racing. He’s honestly a huge goober. If you give him kisses, he gives them right back.”
Sarah had given his nose a quick peck and he returned it against her palm, licking her hand.
“See? Told ya, he gives them right back!”
Sarah giggled as he licked her palm. “That tickles!” She wiped her wet palm on the side of her jeans. “I think I like him the most so far! Or Frankie, he was very sweet.”
“I think Whiskey is my favorite so far. I’m Jealous of how fantastic his hair looks.”
“Dad, it's not his hair, it's his mane!”
Joel held his hands up in defense with a small grin on his lips.
“Ohh, my bad for not gettin’ the term correct, my deepest apologies!”
“Yeah, Joel! Get with the program!” You chimed, your tone light and playful as you stopped at the last stall. Ezra was already nuzzling his nose into your shoulder, giving you an affectionate push.
“Oh, wow. He’s so pretty! It looks like he has a heart on his head, you see that dad?” Sarah pointed to the heart shaped star on Ezra’s forehead.
“Oh, yeah he does! Recognize him from the photo on the website.” ‘Yeah, the one that you have been staring at for the past 24 hours, Miller.’ He thought to himself.
“This is my boy, Ezra. He’s a 16 hand high Hanoverian and he was making it big in the hunter jumper world for a few years. He used to compete all through the country and was well on his way to competing in Europe.” You gave him a pat on his neck, pulled out the other half of the carrot and fed it to him. “Sometimes horses give you signs that they’re tired, that they don’t want to work anymore. Ezra was giving all those signs and his owner refused to see them until it was pretty much too late. He passed out during a show from exhaustion and being overworked. Now, he gets to live comfortably and he enjoys being ridden again.”
Joel could tell how much these horses truly meant to you, just by the way you spoke about all of them. He admired your passion for giving them a second chance at life. This just confirmed to him that he definitely would be seeing a lot more of you.
After the tour, Joel felt comfortable leaving Sarah to spend some time with Ezra while you and him talked over the logistics.
“I gotta say, you really sold this place for me darlin’ and I think Sarah would be absolutely lucky to be trained under you. Y’know I'm usually super critical over these things, for obvious reasons, but I trust you already and I know she’s in good hands.”
You were in disbelief as you walked alongside him.
“Really? Well, I gotta say, that's a relief. I got a little worried that maybe I was taking it too far with telling you guys about each of the horses stories but honestly, it's necessary. I can’t tell you how many potential clients have rolled through here and lasted maybe a day before switching to a hunter jumper barn. So I truly appreciate you saying that. I think Sarah is going to love it here, and I would be more than happy to be her instructor.”
“Honestly? I’m just relieved you didn’t try and sugar coat anythin’ I appreciate the fact that you didn’t try to make yourself, or this place sound like somethin’ it's not. If that makes any sense? You’re just, uh–very personable? I apologize if i’m oversteppin’ with ya darlin’ I don’t mean to ramble.”
You laughed as you looked over at him and nodded. “I totally understand what you’re trying to get at Joel. So basically, I’m not a snobby asshole that’s just in it for the money?”
“Well, that is one way to put it. I could also tell by your shirt that you weren’t gonna be the prissy type. Can’t stand those kinda girls honestly. You’re definitely in it for the horses, and the experience.”
You were feeling flustered by this man’s words, and there was no way you could hide it. “What about the shirt you gave me away? C’mon, I'm curious to know what your first impression of me really was.”
“Oh, I don’t know. Maybe it was the two X-Wings on your shirt? Just a simple observation. Gotta ask, what’s your favorite of the franchise thus far?”
“Damn X-Wings giving away all my deepest, darkest secrets. Oh man, probably the Empire Strikes back or Return of the Jedi. The new episodes have potential though. I do like the Pod racing in The Phantom Menace.”
“You walked right on into that one darlin,’ and those are pretty solid answers. Me personally? I like the Empire Strikes Back the most. Although, they’re all good.”
“I think I respect you just a tad bit more than I already did, Joel Miller.”
“Well, I must be doin’ somethin’ right huh?”
Oh, he has no idea.
“Anyway, let’s get you situated with the paperwork and figure out a good lesson schedule?”
Joel nodded and you left his side to go and grab the paper work, waiver and other forms along with a pen and after he signed everything, you went and retrieved Sarah, who was still loving on Ezra.
You stood just outside the door of the main building, waving to Joel and Sarah as he pulled out of the parking spot.
“Well, kiddo. Your first lesson this Saturday! Signed the paperwork and everything. You excited?”
Sarah looked over at her dad with a big smile as she buckled her seatbelt. “You like her, don’t you?”
Joel stumbled over his words as he looked over at his kid momentarily.
“Now what would make ya think that? Wait, was it that obvious? Shoot! You were not supposed to hear me say that. I don’t like your riding instructor sweet pea. I just think she is a cool person ,and she definitely knows her horse stuff.”
“I knew it! You do like her! Dad, you are terrible at making things not obvious! She’s like super pretty so I totally get it! I am going to tell uncle Tommy that you have a crush!” She giggled.
“Sarah–honey, are you feelin alright? The sun isn’t gettin’ to ya is it?” He looked absolutely mortified when she said that she was going to tell his brother. “Absolutely not, you do not speak of this to uncle Tommy, ever! I ain’t got a silly little crush, kiddo. Don’t be ridiculous.”
“Okay, okay. I won’t say anything to uncle Tommy. I pinky promise! You do have a crush though dad. It’s okay, your secret is safe with me!” She held her pinky out to him.
“I ain’t got a crush. Silly talk, sweet pea. That’s all I'm hearin’ right now.” He linked his pinky with hers.
Alright, so Joel maybe had a teeny tiny crush on his daughter’s horseback riding instructor. Just a small innocent crush that would never turn into anything..right?
Part 3:
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mysteryshoptls · 7 months
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SSR Ace Trappola - Platinum Jacket Vignette
"Happy 100th Anniversary"
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[Land of Dawning – National  Museum of Art]
Ace: Huuuh, so this museum's been open for 100 years, huh. It's got some pretty cool exhibits.
Ace: Tryin' to appreciate art just seems boring, and I totally thought bein' a supporter was not my bag, but I might be able to enjoy myself here after all.
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Ace: ―Ooh, found me the painting of some card soldiers! Look at 'em, all cool the way they're standing at attention like that.
???: Mhm, their perfectly aligned call to attention is quite the spectacle.
Ace: Ah, hey, Lilia-senpai. You must have great taste to see the true quality of this painting here! Haha.
Ace: If the rank and file are in disarray, then it doesn't look good at all. They gotta be in perfect formation, especially when marching.
Lilia: That's correct. So, you understand what it means to march as they do… Not bad, kid.
Ace: Not that much. I mean, back in my dorm, we just have certain days that all the students are required to march in formation.
Lilia: Kufufu, I heard that practice for that begins as soon as you enter. I've heard many a classmate complaining about it here and there.
Ace: Yeaaaaah, I can see why they'd want to complain. It's not just the Housewarden; even our usually nice upperclassmen come down on us hard during the training.
Ace: The first time I had to march after joining the dorm was the worst. We definitely looked nothing like the card soldiers in this art piece.
Ace: When we looked at the video that Cater-senpai took for us, we could see that the first years' walking was ALL OVER THE PLACE.
Ace: Every one of 'em couldn't get their arms and legs up and moving properly, and they were all looking down. It was sooo lame. I couldn't even laugh at how bad it was.
Ace: By the by, I got praised pretty much right out the gate ♪ They all said that my spirit fully embodied the heart suit card soldiers.
Ace: It's easy for me to just copy what I see the upperclassmen are doing, or what the video's showing. I don't get why all the rest of them were havin' a bad time.
Lilia: OHO~~~?
Ace: Eh? What's with that grin? You're kinda giving me the creeps all of a sudden.
Lilia: How rude of you to call someone as cute as me creepy! But aren't you actually quite the diligent one.
Ace: DILIGENT!? I don't think that word suits me at all!?
Lilia: Not only did you follow the examples set by your upperclassmen, you also watched went further and watched the videos and practiced on your own… I'm seeing you in a whole new light, Ace.
Ace: Ahh, c'mon. Stop patting my head like that. It's not like I was trying to study for it or anything.
Ace: It woulda been a pain and pretty lame if I had to stay behind to practice. That's why I just wanted to get it done ASAP. That's all!
Lilia: It's nothing worth getting all worked up to deny.
Lilia: I think it's rather commendable that you put in the extra effort in order to seek what you think is "cool."
Ace: I'm not getting worked up…! Wait, I got a feeling that if I keep responding, he'll just keep stringing me along to tease me.
Ace: Uh, I'm gonna go to check out the cool-lookin' painting over there!
Lilia: Hey now, don't leave me behind. Kufufu, this must be that adolescence I've heard much about.
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[Land of Dawning – National Museum of Art]
Lilia: Let me see, what cool painting were you talking about… Oho, it's of the King of Beasts. He looks oh so dignified, I can't help but find it charming.
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Ace: Aaand he followed me… But yeah, I definitely agree that's he's pretty dignified.
Lilia: There are many legends swirling around the King of Beasts. Just from looking at this painting, I can't think of which scene they're trying to depict here.
Ace: Uhhh, based on this info they got plastered next to it…
Ace: Looks like… Oh, it's where he was talking about his vision for the country's future with his hyena retainers.
Ace: I actually really like the story of how the King of Beasts would always trust in his hyenas.
Ace: Oh yeah, and that one where he performed songs for his people!
Lilia: Mhm, that's a good one. He is a sophisticated king indeed to utilize singing to vow to improve his country.
Ace: Riiiiight~? Totally get why the hyenas were so excited that they were singing and dancing all through the night.
Ace: The King of Beasts looks pretty unapproachable from just a glance, but he must have had a ton of charisma.
Lilia: Well, he did have the power to move his people's hearts through song. If he had his due, perhaps he would have been able to sway the whole world with his song.
Ace: Totally. If I had lived during the same era, I would have loved to go and karaoke with him.
Lilia: Speaking of karaoke… I heard you and Sebek went for that.
Ace: Ah, did you hear that from Sebek? We went with Deuce and the two from Ramshackle…
Ace: Jack and Epel also tagged along. But maan, it was pretty insane.
Ace: So many of them were new to it, so I had to teach them everything, from how to choose a new song, to ordering food. You'd think they'd have common sense to figure out, but c'mon.
Ace: We literally couldn't sing a single song for the first 30 min or so, I was like, what did we even come here for!?
Lilia: Kufufu, now, now, you can't say that. I'm sure there's things you're not familiar with, too.
Ace: But c'mon~ …Well, I guess it was kinda fun to have a small competition using the karaoke's scoring system.
Lilia: So, you had a karaoke competition! I would love to tag along next time. So, who won?
Ace: Well, that's obvious… IT WAS YA BOY ACE-KUN HERE!
Ace: When I hit 100 points, everyone was lookin' up at me like idiots, all like, "you gotta be kidding!"
Ace: As a bit of a handicap, I chose of the recent viral songs and did the dance that went along with it, too~
Lilia: Oho, that's amazing that you can sing while moving your body without missing a beat.
Ace: I mean, unlike those guys, back in middle school I would go karaoke a lot.
Ace: And all those guys kept shouting that they'd practice singing so they could sing next time, but y'know…
Ace: There's actually a trick to getting the high score on that machine's scoring function. It's not enough to just be a good singer.
Ace: At this rate, I think I'll be taking home the win next time too ♪
Lilia: Kufufu, looks like even the ones who don't get to spend that much time together with you all had some fun, eh?
Ace: Well, I guess it wasn't too bad.
Ace: They'd choose stuff like old songs that were popular during my parent's heyday, or minor folk songs…
Ace: It was kinda neat that I heard a ton of songs that I normally wouldn't listen to. It was completely different to how it'd be if I was with my friends back home.
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[Land of Dawning – National Museum of Art]
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Ace: This painting is of those eels that served the Sea Witch…
Lilia: Mhm. It's said that whenever they found merfolk in distress, they would encourage them to seek the guidance of the benevolent Sea Witch.
Ace: Huuh, they look kinda scary, but… Guess you can't judge a book by its cover.
Lilia: Speaking of… Ace, I heard you went a little viral on Magicam the other day.
Ace: Geh! So, you saw that post too…
Lilia: Kufufu, I took it all in.
Lilia: "This scary-looking young man in a flashy shirt was kind to a kid in this burger shop," it said.
Lilia: You did a good thing, Mister "Scary-Looking Young Man in a Flashy Shirt."
Ace: C'mon, can you not tease me!?
Ace: The comments section was going wild with stuff like, "I love that personality gap~" and "The scarier the person looks, the softer their heart is."
Ace: I definitely don't like people just deciding that I'm scary just from how I look, or just assuming that I'm nice.
Ace: More like, I think it was 'cause I was with all my basketball teammates that I ended up looking scary too.
Ace: And 'sides, that patterned shirt I was wearing wasn't even something I'd pick out on my own.
Ace: Floyd-senpai made me buy it sometime back, so I thought it'd be bad if I didn't wear it, that's all…
Lilia: Hm, guess it was a mistake of them to comment on your appearance, then. But it was true that you were nice to the kid, right?
Ace: Nope. I just was throwing something I didn't want at 'em!
Lilia: You gave them something you didn't want…? So how does that turn into being "kind" to the kind?
Ace: So, when my clubmates and me went to the burger shop down in town, we got a free card with our orders.
Ace: Something about how they were doing a collaboration campaign with a movie that was recently released.
Ace: I at least knew what the movie was, so I opened it up, but just as I was thinking to myself that I didn't really need a card, or anything…
Ace: This kid who was nearby just randomly started crying. Apparently they wanted a hero card, not a villain card.
Ace: That's why I just gave him the card I had. It just happened to be the one he wanted.
Ace: I was able to get rid of something I didn't want, and I didn't have to listen to the sound of crying in the background. Win-win, right?
Lilia: Well, when you explain it like that, it definitely no longer feels like a heartwarming story.
Ace: Riiight? But then all the folks on Magicam had to go and try to treat me like a nice guy. Everyone's been teasing me about that too…
Ace: In the end, even the Headmage got wind of the video and just wouldn't stop praising me, saying "This is a fantastic thing you've done!"
Ace: Maan, preconception can be a crazy thing. I bet if I was wearing my school uniform, it definitely wouldn't have taken off.
Ace: They say that it's not all about appearance, but I guess that first impression you get is still important.
Lilia: Kufufu, I bet if the parents of that child were to hear your true feelings about it, they'd be shocked.
Lilia: Well then, I think I'll go on to check out the other exhibits. Bye then, Ace.
Ace: Whew, Lilia-senpai just couldn't stop teasing, huh. Wellll, what should I go and look at next…? Hm?
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Ace: Woah, it's a painting of a walrus and the oysters. Lookin' at it here, the walrus really looks like a proper gentleman.
Ace: I bet those oysters were also tricked by how the walrus looked. Can't help but feel sorry for them… Heh.
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Requested by Anonymous.
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Text
Clandestine. Part Three.
It's better this way. At least, that's what you're telling yourself.
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Pairing - Stewy Hosseini x Female!Roy Reader
Age Rating - 18+
Word Count - 3k
Warnings - cursing. allusions to smut. angst. mention of death. quick mention of drug use.
Author's Note - it's here, you guys. part three !! thank you so much for all of the continued love on this series, it makes me so happy. there'll definitely be at least a couple more parts after this one, so don't worry!! i'm a sucker for a happy ending ;)
as always, reblogs, comments and feedback (even anonymous feedback!) are immensely appreciated!! your reblogs are the only way to circulate my fics, which keeps me going <3
Part One. Part Two. Series Masterlist.
Main Masterlist. Inbox.
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"-and I know it's a fuckin' tough challenge, but I think we can do it. We've got people on our side, and I got a call from Lawrence this morning - I'm gonna see if I can convince him. So, we definitely need you in that fuckin' meeting."
Silence.
"Are you even fucking listening to me? Hello?"
"... What?"
"I said, we need you at the Board Meeting this afternoon. Kendall made me promise I'd show up with you."
"Oh. Yeah, sure. Whatever."
Roman looks you up and down carefully, brows quirked in curiosity.
"The fuck is going on with you? You've been super weird these last couple of weeks."
That confirms your suspicions that Kendall hasn't told anyone about that day at Stewy's apartment. You were wondering if he had, nervously trying to play detective around your siblings.
"I'm just... tired. I'm fine. Don't worry about me, okay?"
Roman doesn't look convinced, but nods anyway.
"Just... you know, I, uh - I'm... I'm here. If you need me. You know that, don't you?"
You smile softly at his awful attempt at affection.
"I know, Rome. Thank you."
"Come on," he says, jumping from his chair. "We better get to that meeting early, Ken wants to talk strategy."
✵  ✵    ·  ✵    *  · ✵
You're sitting silently, heels kicked off, curled up in an expensive leather chair. Kendall and Roman are talking business, the complex jargon going straight over your head. You're in a world of your own, completely detached from your current reality, when you hear it.
Rome says it off hand, not thinking anything of it. You watch as Kendall flinches ever so slightly, almost imperceptibly. Your throat tightens, your heart kicks up in your chest. Then, he says it again.
His name.
Stewy.
"I know if you push him the right way, Ken, Stewy is fully on board. We got him, I know we do."
Stewy.
Stewy, Stewy, Stewy.
The word plays on repeat in your mind, like a stuck record. Kendall's eyes flick to you, as if to gauge your reaction, but you refuse to give him the satisfaction. You haven't spoke since your argument, deciding that the silent treatment was the best course of action. You know it's torture for Kendall, but you're both stubborn. Neither of you is willing to back down first.
"Uh - yeah, yeah, I, uh, I think, maybe. I think maybe he is. I don't, uh, I don't know."
Rome is oblivious to Kendall's reluctance to speak on the subject, clearly.
"Well, can you fuckin' talk to him? You know you're like the only person in Waystar he'll listen to."
Kendall's eyes are darting between you and Roman frantically. You can read him like a book.
"Yeah, I'll, uh, sure. I'll talk to him."
You scoff under your breath, but he hears it.
"You got something to fuckin' say, Princess? Huh?"
Princess. You haven't heard that one in a while. Your childhood nickname. It started off as a sweet endearment, but now, it's thrown in your face when the boys want to get under your skin.
"Fuck you, Kendall," you bite.
"Uh... Did I miss something?"
"Fuck off, Roman," you and Ken say simultaneously.
Any other day, you'd laugh about saying the same thing at the same time. You'd joke about how in sync you are, how you share one brain. Now, it just makes you infinitely sadder.
You're about to make another sarcastic remark when Sandi and Sandy enter the room, cutting the moment short. You're not sure if you're grateful or spiteful.
One by one, the Waystar Board members file in, taking their seats at the table. You're holding your breath, sitting at the edge of your chair, waiting for the inevitable. You can predict it now, the way you're going to feel when he walks in - chest tight, lungs knotted, fists clenched.
Stewy walks in, and the opposite happens.
You exhale your held breath, and relax slightly. The tension leaves your shoulders for a moment, your lip gets released from in between your teeth. It's like seeing him has cured you, even temporarily. As if he's your own brand of medicine, your personalised prescription.
His eyes catch yours, and you have a silent conversation. So much is said in such a short time.
Hi. Hi. Are you okay? No, are you? No. Not at all.
The room is oblivious to this emotional exchange - except for your older brother. Kendall watches your every move like a hawk. He's trying to figure out if the two of you are still together, still sneaking around behind his back. You haven't spoken to him since he stormed out of Stewy's apartment, meaning he has no idea about the events that occurred after his departure.
The meeting goes off as usual, full of tension and sniped remarks. You don't listen to a word anyone says, too focused on keeping your attention away from Stewy across the table. You're determined not to look at him. You know that if you do, he'll see right through you. He'll know how you really feel. And that is something you're not at all prepared for.
"Okay, well, if no one else has anything they'd like to cover, I think we're done here. Meeting adjourned."
Everyone rises from their places, shaking hands and having quick discussions before leaving through the tall glass doors. You stay put, in no rush to exit. Kendall approaches Stewy, and you watch the exchange with a clenched jaw.
"Hey, uh... can we, like, talk, maybe? I think, yeah, I think we should talk."
Stewy takes a long, hard look at Kendall, before chuckling humourlessly.
"I've got nothing to say to you, man."
Your brother stays stuck in his place, staring at the floor beneath him. As Stewy leaves, he can't resist running his fingers across your shoulders gently. You look back at him, but he's already gone.
✵  ✵    ·  ✵    *  · ✵
Home doesn't feel like home anymore.
Everywhere you look, you're reminded of Stewy.
You're in the kitchen, and all you can think about is the time the two of you slow danced in the middle of the night, slipping and sliding on the tiled floor. There's a half finished bottle of wine on the counter, abandoned in favour of gliding around the room in your socks. Stewy clicks on some low, jazzy music, and pulls you into his arms. You feel like you finally belong somewhere.
You're in the bathroom, and you can't stop thinking about when the two of you took a bubble bath together, lavender scented steam filling the air. Your back is pressed to Stewy's chest, sitting in between his legs as he massages the shampoo into your hair. He's humming softly, a song his Mother used to sing when he was a child. There's not an ounce of tension in either of your bodies. You feel like you finally belong somewhere.
You're in the living room, and you can't avoid the memories of curling up with Stewy on the couch. He always lets you pick the movie - sarcastically rolling his eyes at your choices, but never protesting. You sit there for hours, bodies tangled together like two pieces of the same puzzle. You feel like you finally belong somewhere.
You're in the bedroom, and you can't stop picturing the way that Stewy would take you apart and put you back together again. Before him, all of the sex you had was quick, transactional, impersonal. But it was different with Stewy. With Stewy, it felt like you had all the time in the world. It was tender, loving, connected. He genuinely cared about your pleasure - learning your body inch by inch, memorising it like a sculptor. You allowed yourself, for the first time ever, to let go. You put your soul in his hands with full faith. Lying there, limbs intertwined beneath the soft sheets, there was no doubt in your mind. You belonged somewhere.
And now that safe place is gone.
Home doesn't feel like home anymore, and it's all because of him. You could move at the drop of a hat, find a new apartment tomorrow if you wanted. But you can't. You can't leave all of these memories behind. As painful as they are, they're all you have.
You turn on the TV, and flick to ATN News. They're running a story on a young baseball player that tragically died in a car wreck, aged twenty four. You sit and watch the whole segment, unable to tear your eyes away from the screen. When it ends, you turn it off, and sit in silence.
You sit there for hours, in the quiet, just thinking. About everything. The number twenty four keeps circling around in your head.
He was twenty four. Twenty four years old. He hadn't even got to live properly. Life is so short. Life is so unpredictable. God, anything could happen tomorrow. Twenty four. Twenty four. Twenty four.
You glance towards the clock on the wall, which reads 10:24. It feels like a sign.
All of a sudden, you're sick of waiting. Sick of being told how to live your life. Sick of trying to conform to these ideals that people are placing on you. Fuck them. Life's too short. You have to start living for you.
You're pulling on your shoes and grabbing your keys before you can even process it. You call the number for a car, but no one answers. Fuck it, you'll run across New York City if you have to. If it means you get to hold the man you love in your arms again.
✵  ✵    ·  ✵    *  · ✵
Bang. Bang. Bang. Bang. Bang. Bang.
The knocking on the door is so loud, Stewy's half convinced he's about to be murdered. He swings open the heavy oak to be met with the sight of you, looking like you just ran a marathon.
You stand still for a moment, staring at each other, as if you can't believe what you're seeing. You're here, in each others vicinity again. It'd be so easy to reach out and touch him.
So, you do.
You barrel into Stewy, jumping into his arms, throwing yours around his neck. He catches you easily, holding onto you as tight as he possibly can. You wrap your legs around his waist and press yourself even closer, as if to merge both of your bodies into one being.
You breathe him in, and it's the first time you've taken a full breath in weeks. He smells the same as he always did, musky and woody and expensive and yours. He still smells like he's yours.
You don't realise you're crying until you pull away from him slightly, and see the wet spot on his t shirt. He puts you down and closes the door, locking it behind you. He grabs your hand and leads you into the kitchen, parting from you to pour two glasses of wine.
You jump up onto the counter and part your legs, Stewy coming to stand between them instinctively. He places a hand on each of your thighs, warmth seeping through his palms. You're face to face, unsure where to start.
"Baby," he breathes. "What are you doing here?"
He sounds unsure, almost scared. If only you knew how frantically his heart is beating in his chest.
"Life is too short," you reply quickly. "Way too short. I could literally die tomorrow."
Stewy looks at you carefully, brow quirked in confusion.
"Honey, are you on drugs? Because they're really not good for you, you know."
"Says the man who did coke off my ass last month," you tease defiantly.
He fights back a smile, but it curls at the corner of his mouth. You grin at him, hands moving to play with the hair at the back of his neck.
"I'm not on drugs," you reassure. "I was just watching the news, and it kinda put everything into perspective. Life is so short and so fragile. Why am I wasting mine trying to appease my family, who'll never be happy, no matter what I do?"
He smiles at you softly, nodding as you continue.
"I just - my whole life, my brothers have just done whatever the fuck they wanted. Especially Kendall. But I make a choice for me, and all of a sudden I'm the villain? How is that fair?"
"It isn't," he agrees, squeezing your thighs in reassurance. "They're all hypocrites. Do you know how many stupid decisions I've watched Kendall make over the years? They think they know everything, but they don't."
"I mean, look at them. Roman is incapable of affection, Kendall's ex wife hates him, and Connor practically bought Willa. My Dad's on his second wife, not including the countless mistresses he's had. None of them know anything about love. They don't know a thing."
"I think you're the only person in your family capable of love," he chuckles.
"I'm starting to think you might be right," you laugh.
You lean forward and press your forehead to Stewy's, exhaling the tension from your shoulders.
"I'm really sorry," you whisper. "For everything. I treated you horribly, and none of it was your fault."
"It wasn't your fault, either. You know that, right?"
"I don't know. It's so hard to get a view on things when they're happening. But when I took a step back, it gave me a clearer look. And it made me realise something."
"And what's that?" he murmurs.
"I realised that I cannot live a day without you, Stewy Hosseini. I don't want to."
"Thank God," he breathes in a laugh. "I've been going fucking crazy here without you."
You beam a grin at him, so bright it's a wonder that the lights don't shatter.
"I love you, and I won't apologise for it," you confess. "Whatever the consequences are, I'll accept them. Nothing can touch me when I'm loved by you. You're like my own personal armour."
"Man, we're the worst," he laughs. "We could love anyone in the world, and we just had to choose each other."
"I'm gonna choose you everyday, I'm afraid," you tease. "There's no going back now."
"I wouldn't want to," he murmurs. "I don't want to go back."
"Me neither," you whisper against his mouth.
Stewy leans forward and captures your lips with his, arms wrapping around your waist to pull you closer. You get completely lost in each other, revelling in the feeling of being back together. You feel like you can finally breathe again. The other half of your heart has returned.
✵  ✵    ·  ✵    *  · ✵
The two of you are tangled among the sheets, limbs intertwined and hands linked. You run your fingertips in mindless patterns over his chest, the sprinkling of hair tickling you, making you smile gently. Stewy's playing with your hair, soothing you softly. His heartbeat is lulling you into tranquility, relaxing you completely. This is paradise, you're convinced. Paradise.
"It can be like this forever, you know," he murmurs into the top of your head, kissing you tenderly.
"I know," you reassure. "And it will be."
Stewy can't stop thinking about the diamond ring still sitting in his nightstand. After your fight, he thought he'd never get to see you wear it. But now he knows he will. And that makes his heart flutter uncontrollably in his ribcage, like technicolour butterflies trying to escape him.
He pulls you impossibly closer, trying to breathe you in. He never wants to let you go. You don't want him to.
"We should tell them," you say suddenly. "Fuck the consequences."
"Are you sure, honey?"
You sit up in bed, looking at him carefully. His hair is mussed, shoulders relaxed, lip bitten between his teeth. He's never looked more beautiful.
"I'm sure. I wasn't, before. I think that's why I tried to push you away - I was trying to force myself into doing something I wasn't ready for. But almost losing you has made me realise that you're it for me, Stewy. You are my first and only choice. You are the only thing I'm sure of."
Stewy's chest swells with emotion, throat tightening, eyes welling. He's determined not to cry, but fuck, he's close.
"Do you know how many times I've dreamt of you saying those words to me?" he chokes out. "I love you. Fuck, I love you so much it makes me ache."
"I love you," you whisper back, cradling his face in your gentle hands. "I love you. I'm never letting you go again. Not ever."
You kiss him softly, basking in the feeling of his lips on yours. You get lost in each other once again, both of you in disbelief at being back in each others arms.
"Let's tell them," you whisper against his mouth. "Fuck the consequences."
"Fuck the consequences," he grins. "It's you and me, baby. You and me against the world."
You feel as if you're floating, levitating, powered by the sheer force of your love. Nothing can touch you. You're invincible, when you're in Stewy's arms.
He knows this is it. This is the moment. He makes his decision, and reaches his arm out to open the top drawer of this nightstand. His pulse quickens, body practically vibrating with anticipation. As he pulls it open, your phone rings, the shrill tone piercing through your peace.
You go to decline it, but notice that it's Connor's name lighting up your screen. There's a weird feeling in your stomach, suddenly.
"Hello?"
"Hi, sweetheart. It's Connor. Where are you?"
You cast a glance towards Stewy, and he shakes his head softly, silently communicating. Not yet. We'll tell him in person.
"I'm at a friend's place. What's up?"
"I, uh, I don't... I don't really know how to, um... you need to come to Dad's apartment, ASAP."
"Wait, what? Why?"
There are a million scenarios swirling around in your head, clouding your mind, overwhelming you.
"He's, uh.. I just, um, I don't-"
"Spit it out, Con."
A pause. He takes a deep breath.
"Dad's dead."
Silence.
Your heart breaks. Stewy hears it happen.
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lynzishell · 3 months
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Transcript below the cut:
Megan: How did your appointment go last week? Have you decided on a birth plan? Dawn: It went well. Yeah, we’ve decided to do a water birth at home.
Iris: Really? Why would you do that? What if something goes wrong? Dawn: Our midwife is very experienced, and we’re only twenty minutes from the hospital if we need it. Iris: Twenty minutes is an eternity in an emergency. Megan: Oh Iris, I’m sure everything will be fine. Iris: Right. Of course.
Megan: Have you looked at the bassinets yet? They have a nice selection over there. Dawn: Not yet. There’s so much to think about, and everything is so expensive. It’s overwhelming. Megan: You don’t have to get it all yourself. We’ll throw you a baby shower, and you can get a lot that way.
Dawn: Oh, I can’t ask you to do that. I’m sure we’ll manage. Megan: Nonsense, I’ve already started planning. I’ll run down to Customer Service to see if they have those little scanners. We can start a registry.
Dawn: Oh, um—okay. Iris: What if you decide you want an epidural?
Dawn: Excuse me? Iris: When you have the baby, I mean. I thought I was going to tough it out with Spencer, but I changed my mind quick. You don’t know the level of pain you’re in for. You don’t have anything to prove y’know.
Dawn: I’m not trying to prove anything. I just don’t want it. And I’m doing what I can to prepare for the pain.   Iris: There’s only so much breathing and visualization you can do before you’re screaming. Dawn: I think you’d be surprised how high my pain tolerance is, Iris. Iris: If you say so. But, you do realize that— Dawn: That what? Iris: That you have a higher chance of the baby dying at home than at the hospital?
Dawn: Now, why would you say that? Iris: [shrugs] Because it’s true. There’s a reason people stopped doing home births a long time ago. I don’t understand why it’s suddenly trendy. Dawn: Trendy?
Dawn: We’re not doing anything for a trend. The environment we bring our baby into is important to us. We have thought this through, and it’s our decision. I don’t have to explain myself to you. Iris: I know, I’m just saying. Dawn: Well, I’d appreciate it if you kept your comments to yourself. Iris: Fine.
Dawn: I’m gonna go see if I can find Megan. Iris: Relax, she’ll be back any second, I’m sure. Here, have you seen these? They’re so cute!
Dawn: What?  Ooh, Iris, happened to your wrist? Iris: N-nothing. Just me being clumsy.
Dawn: Huh. Iris: What? Dawn: Nothing, just that, you and Ash are so similar. He said the exact same thing when, uh, never mind. Iris: When what? Dawn: When he got that black eye from James.
Iris: [rolls her eyes] You have no idea what you’re talking about. You think you can just show up acting like you’re better than everyone with your perfect life and your perfect fiancé. But you don’t know me, and you certainly don’t know James.
Dawn: I’m not… I wasn’t implying… wait, Iris, is that from him? Iris: [scoffs] Dawn: Iris?
Iris: It’s not what you think, and it’s none of your business anyway. Dawn: Fine. You know what, you stay out of my business, and I’ll stay out of yours. Iris: Works for me. Dawn: Great.
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