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swordsandholly · 30 days

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Double Date - Double Down

NSFW | MDNI

Simon ‘Ghost’ Riley x Fem!plus size!reader

Word count: 4.9k

Summary: When you get a call in the middle of the afternoon from your friend begging you to fill an empty spot on a double date your initial instinct is a hard no. After all, no one wants to go on a blind double date and be surprised by the fat friend. It doesn’t help that this Simon guy is stupid fucking hot and obviously doesn’t like you - if his lack of talking is anything to go by.

A/N: Just a fun little oneshot I used as a warmup between working on chapters of future multi chapter projects.

“I said *no*.” You snap, angrily folding the washcloth in your hands.

Your friend splutters from the other side of the phone, the desperation in her voice only growing now that she’s on her fourth ask. “*Pleeeaase*! Steph backed out last minute and no one else is free-“

“How do you know I’m free?”

“You just said you were!”

You huff. She’s got you there. When she first called, you admitted you didn’t have anything going on but that was *before* she told you the plan for the night. Before she mentioned that her very, very conventionally hot military boyfriend wanted to do a little double date with his friend and one of hers. Plus, you take a least a little offense to being second choice. Really, last choice, it seems.

“Cass, you can’t just set up a blind date and take your fat friend. That’s not-“

“You’re not fat, love. You’re beautiful.” Her words drip with turned honey. You make a gagging face to yourself in the mirror. “You just need more confidence!”

You sigh loudly, pinching the bridge of your nose. You could try, for the millionth time, to explain to her the nuanced ins and outs of dating as a fat woman. The rules and stats that could rival even the most complex rpg… or you could be petty. It takes less time to be petty. “If I go, you’re paying for my drinks.”

“Johnny’s friend will probably-“

“Yeah, and when he leaves you’re paying for my tab.”

“He won’t-“

“We got a deal?”

She clicks her tongue. “*Fiiiine*.”

At least you can get wasted for free either way. A small consolation. She texts you the time and location, barely leaving you with enough time to shower and turn yourself into something presentable. Not that you really care. It’s going to be shit either way, most likely. Staring yourself down in the mirror, you suppose you could at least try to look somewhat attractive. If you’re about to get rejected (or possibly shouted at, you’ll never forget *that* horrendous interaction) you might as well feel your best.

The pub is small as you push through the front door. Casual. A couple pool tables, some darts, a large bar and few booths with stools on the outer side. You scan the room, searching for Cass’s familiar face.

“Over here!” Cass waves with a wide arc at you, a grin plastered from ear to ear. At least she’s having fun.

You take a long breath, bracing yourself for whatever is about to happen. Cass introduces you to her boyfriend - who is somehow even hotter in person. You can see why she’s so smitten with him. Johnny looks you up and down as he shakes your hand. He doesn’t comment, or make a face, or really react in any particular way, but you can feel a shift. Something in his eyes…

Maybe it’s just your imagination. You’ve always been a little over sensitive.

“Si will be back in a sec. Stepped over tae get a drink.” He flashes a grin.

You hum, quietly folding your hand as Cass pushes a cocktail for you that she preemptively ordered. Criticize her as much as you like, she knows her mixes.

“There he is.” Johnny grins, turning slightly.

You follow his gaze, heart sinking as your eyes settle on the man approaching your table. He’s massive. Tall and wide. Total brick shithouse. His face is mostly covered by a black surgical mask. A few years ago you might have questioned it but at this point you couldn’t care less, especially when his dark eyes meet yours, small flecks of gold honey catching the low bar lights. Barely styled tufts of blonde hair stick up from his head. They look like they might curl if he let it grow a little longer.

All in all, wayyyy out of your league.

He settles into his seat with all the confidence of any military man - back ramrod straight. He extends a large hand. “Simon Riley.”

You murmur your name, somewhat enthralled by the half lidded, almost bored look in his eyes. Now that he’s closer you notice a large scar splitting his left eyebrow and light, newly forming crows feet in the corners of his eyes.

“S-so you’re military, too?” You stutter, eyes trained on his the massive hand holding his glass. It’s nicely vascular, his nails are well groomed but it also looks like he could snap you in half with it.

Not that that’s entirely a bad thing - whatever that may or may not say about you.

He nods. “I’m a Lieutenant.”

“Oh! Officer position. So you’re smart, then?” You try to be charming, to give him a sweet smile and keep your body language open.

“Enough.” He deadpans. It takes a few beats for you to realize he’s not going to say anything else.

“Uh…” You squirm awkwardly under his gaze. It’s intense - his dark eyes nearly black in the low light of the bar. “I do hair.”

Conversation is slow, to say the least. The longest answer he gives you is maybe five words. He only flips up the mask long enough to take a sip of his drink every so often. You start to talk less, opting toward a group conversation in which Johnny takes the lead, which he is obviously very good at. He regales you and Cass with a few stories of his and Simon’s adventures. Some funny, some brave, some worrying. He’s setting the man up to be a god, nearly, but Simon himself just shakes his head and insists Johnny is exaggerating.

You wonder what he sees in Simon. Alternatively, you wonder what *you’re* supposed to see in Simon. Besides his good looks, of course. He’s… bland. Obviously bored if his constant glances toward the exits and rhythmic, occasional tapping on the corner of the table are anything to go by.

“Want tae go dance, lovie?” You overhear Johnny as he leans in toward Cass.

She glances at you, then Simon, then back to you before nodding enthusiastically. “We’ll give you two some time *alone*.”

In any other situation, you’d probably beg her to stay in desperation for a conversation buffer. Here and now, though, you’re grateful. You can finally let this poor guy off the hook. You wait until they’re gone; fully out of earshot before turning to the man in front of you.

“I…uh… look…” You chew your lip, glancing between him and your folded hands on the table. “Sorry… I know I’m probably not what, uh, what you expected… I get it if you want to leave. It’s - you don’t have to stay, or whatever. Don’t have to be polite…”

He cocks an eyebrow, eyes boring through your skull. “Why would I want to leave?”

“I know what I look like. You don’t have to be nice.”

His raised brow turns into a slight frown. “I think you’re quite pretty.”

You scoff - blushing despite yourself. “Again, you don’t have to be nice.”

“Do I seem like the type to just be nice?”

You continue to gnaw at your lip. He’s got you there. Simon definietly doesn’t come off as the type to bow to polite society. “You’ve barely talked to me.”

He stares for a moment. It’s his turn to avert his eyes, swirling around the whiskey in his glass awkwardly. Almost bashfully. “It’s not you. I’m… not great in public… especially in crowds…”

Oh.

*Oh*.

You’ve completely misjudged him, haven’t you? Shit. He’s just a big awkward lug isn’t he?You sigh, rubbing your temple. “Oh God, *I’m* the asshole, aren’t I?”

He chuckles, “I wouldn’t go that far.”

“I’m sorry it’s just…” you scrub a hand over your face. “Most men don’t really want to be surprised with a fat girl on a blind date. Guess I assumed the worst.”

Simon hums. A low vibration that settles into your bones. He gets up, sliding into the booth side of the table beside you - his massive frame pushing into your space. He smells like spices. Cinnamon and pepper. A little hint of leather and tobacco underneath. It’s heady, and some primal part of your mind wishes you could roll around in it like a dog.

“Some men might like a waifish little thing, that’s their business, but personally…” He leans in, a large hand resting on your wide thigh. “Yeah. I like somethin’ I can get a proper handful of.”

“*Oh*.” You squeak, back stiff. Was that what you saw in Johnny’s face before? Approval?

“‘Ere’s a thought - we go back to mine. S’quiet. Can talk more freely. See where the night goes, hm?”

You smile hesitantly, finally looking up to meet his gaze. It’s honest. Kind. Dark pools of sincerity. It’s against your better judgement. Impractical. Out of character. Even so, you allow yourself to surrender with a warmth in your cheeks and a small nod.

“I’ll get an Uber.” He pulls out his phone, tapping away. “Five minutes out.”

“Want to wait outside?” You offer, nodding toward the front entrance. Simon just nods, following you out close behind. Neither of you say much of anything while you wait, but you watch him out of the corner of your eye. He taps on his leg a few times in much the same way as he did on the table.

He dutifully opens the car door for you, letting you slide in before climbing in beside you, long legs slightly cramped in the small sedan.

“You don’t live on base?” You ask as the Uber drives away from the infamous military housing. You’d been there once or twice - a while ago when you were younger and messier.

“S’too loud.” He shrugs. “Too crowded.”

“Well, at least you’re consistent.” You smile.

Simon hums, resting his hand on your thigh once again. It’s casual, not too high up or too much pressure. Not presumptuous.

“How’d Johnny get you out there in the first place? If you’re so *averse*.” You tilt your head.

He shrugs, “Was supposed to be another Sergeant we work with but I guess he cancelled. No one else was free.”

“Ah, so we’re both last choices, then.”

“Yeah?”

“Made Cass promise me free drinks if I came.”

“Smart girl.” He chuckles, holding out a hand to help you up out of the car upon your arrival. His hand is warm when you take it, and a small part of you feels disappointed when he lets go.

The building is small. Old. All red brick with a thirty year old intercom and an elevator that you’re pretty sure hasn’t been inspected since the place was built. About halfway down the hall, you start to second guess yourself. You don’t know a thing about this guy - you don’t know what’s going to happen as soon as you get on the other side of his door. His weird, bright red door. Wait - why is this whole floor covered in red doors?

“Alright?” He grunts, back turned to you as he wrestles with the lock.

“Uh - why is your floor color themed?”

Simon laughs, wide shoulders shaking with the movement. It’s a low sound, something that vibrates in his chest. Makes you want to press your ear to it, see how it feels. If it will reverberate into your bones as well. “The old lady that owns the building is a bit… unique. Likes to talk about colors and karma and destiny stuff.”

“Ah.” You nod, as if that makes any sense at all. “So you’re red?”

“Apparently.”

His apartment is actually quite homey, as you step into it. From a stiff military man like him you expected something akin to an ikea floor model. Instead it’s furnished with a well worn, green couch. A large TV with an extremely up-to date surround sound system and an entertainment center filled to the brim with CDs sits against the wall. A few movie posters fill the walls. All horror classics - you count three of the scream movies. The first two final destination. There are condensation rings on the coffee table.

Behind you, you hear the door lock and unlock three times, but you don’t pay it much mind.

“Want a drink?” Simon asks, already popping open a decanter full of something gold on a small drink cart beside the kitchen island.

“Sure.” The agreement is automatic - blurted out before you can second guess taking a drink from a total stranger.

You watch a little too closely as he takes off his light jacket, exposing his strong arms and a half sleeve tattoo. It’s a bit tacky, all skulls and military symbols. The black ink has been sun worn over time. The motif of a young getting his first tattoo after enlisting. He settles down on the couch with the decanter and two glasses, patting the spot beside him. You plop down. It’s pretty comfortable, honestly.

His fingers loop into the mask’s straps. You find yourself watching with wide eyes and bated breath as he removes it. His nose is crooked - broken more than a couple times, you think. There’s a scar running from his nose to upper lip that could only come from a cleft palette. It’s charming, in a way. When he turns toward you, you notice a patch on the side of his face that looks like a rather large burn all the way down to his sharp jaw. The roughness of him works, somehow. The scars and tattoos and choppy hair all coming together to create the visage of a life hard lived.

“You’re really pretty…” the words slip from your tongue before you can stop them.

Simon splutters out a laugh, the slightest hint of color appearing across his cheeks. “Didn’t take you for a flatterer.”

“I’m not.” You huff before nodding toward the posters. “Horror fan?”

He hums, passing you a glass. “Are you a fan? Of horror, I mean.”

“Found footage!” You grin a little too excited. “It’s the best genre.”

“Terrible taste.” He scoffs.

“Wrong! Found footage can be anything you want it to be - slasher, thriller, mystery, mocumentary. Anything.”

“Which makes them messy.” He argues. “Anyone can make one.”

“Yeah! Theres so many hidden gems out there.”

“Whatever you say.”

“Oh, I’ll put you on them. We just need to get you a good one.”

“Askin’ me on a second date already, love?”

“Oh, fuck off.” You shove at his shoulder. He was right, it is so much easier to talk freely out of the bar. Away from everyone and everything. His posture is far more relaxed, laid back into the couch with his hips canted forward rather than stiff as a board.

“We could watch one now?” He offers. If you were more sober, you might have heard the twinge of pleading in his voice. As it stands you’ve already drained the glass he gave you and are perfectly buzzed enough to be ignorant to the subtler parts of communication.

How convenient.

“Okay.” You whisper.

After a bit of debating back and forth you settle on Hell House. After all, it’s been your tried and true method for getting anyone and everyone into the genre. You don’t notice it, at first, but you slowly begin to scoot closer to him as you fold your knees up on the couch. Eventually, tucking yourself under his arm sling across the back cushions. Between him and the drinks - which you’re pretty sure is a rather fancy bourbon - you feel what could only be described as snuggly. Limbs loose and pliant, smile easy and words flowing as you cheer and jeer at the characters together.

At some point, Simon’s dark eyes meet between yours. You lean in, so does he. Inch by inch until your lips meet. It’s tentative, at first. Testing the waters. His lips are soft and move expertly against yours. You part for him has his tongue darts across your lower lip.

It’s easier than it usually is for you. Easy to let him pull you over his lap. To rest your hands on his broad shoulders as you take each other in. Normally, you’re not a person for one night stands. A commitment kind of gal. You can’t exactly say no, though, when you have a beautiful man’s hands traveling over your body like it’s the only thing in the world worth paying attention to right now.

He breaks the kiss just long enough to grunt, “Bedroom?”

“*Yes*.” You gasp between kisses.

Suddenly those large hands grasp under your ass as you’re hauled up. You grapple to hold onto the back of his neck, keeping your weight forward.

“Simon!”

“Yes, love?” He asks as if he didn’t just life you like a sack of potatoes.

“A-aren't I heavy?” You question as he makes his way through the apartment, peppering kisses over your neck and jaw.

“No.” He replies bluntly. Like what you asked was stupid.

You’re placed on a bed with all the gentleness of a rare china plate- one hand cradling your upper back and the other tucked under your thighs. There isn’t any time to take in the room before Simon is kissing you again but you do count approximately five pillows and zero navy sheets.

That shouldn’t be as hot as it is.

Simon leans in close, nose ever so slightly bumping yours. “Before we keep going, I want to establish a rule. Red light means stop. At any time, for any reason.”

You can’t help but smile. “Okay.”

“Say it back, doll.”

“Red light means stop.” You reach up and cup his face. So handsome. So warm.

“Good girl.” He murmurs. “Let’s get these off, hm?” Simon pulls your clothes off deftly - dragging those rough palms over your skin as he moves and kneading at the plushness of your hips appreciatively.

You reach up to tug at his shirt. “S’not fair if I’m the only one naked.”

Simon chuckles and hastily sits back to yank the shirt over his head, giving a lovely show in the process. You think this what people mean when they talk about an Adonis. There’s a comfortable soft layer of his strong abdomen. Something you want to sink your teeth into. Your fingers trace each dip and curve of his muscles, the lovely shape of his pectorals, the raised scars littering his body. Floral shapes from bullets along with slashes and smaller jabs. A particularly nasty one runs down his side, coving his ribs. A burn, you think.

“You’re beautiful.” You murmur. Definitely out of your fucking league. You move to sit up, reaching for his waistband.

His hand pushes your shoulder back on the bed. “Let me take care of you tonight, bird.”

Your face warms. Simon kisses your cheek, continuing down to your chest and taking one of your nipples in his mouth. Gently sucking and nipping at it while flicking the other with his hand. A shameful whimper escapes your throat.

Simon leans up to murmur in your ear, “What do you want, sweet girl?”

“Want you to fuck me…” You murmur, embarrassment making you want to close your legs. His solid hips block you.

“Oh, I will, but first I want those beautiful thighs wrapped around my head.” Simon continues to place kisses down your body, over your stomach, stopping right at your panty line and tracing along it with rough fingers. His arms circle your thighs and in one swift motion your hips teeter on the edge of the bed, Simon kneeling between them. His fingers hook in the waistband of your underwear.

“W-wait…” You sit up on your elbows.

He freezes, looking up at you.

“I, uh, I haven’t exactly *landscaped* in a while… wasn’t really planning-“

Simon huffs out a laugh. “I’m a grown man, love. You think a little bush is gonna scare me off?”

All thoughts related to anything within the proximity of embarrassment come to an instant halt as Simon’s lips wrap around your clit- sucking and nipping and lapping like a man starved. Like he’d die without it. A low groan rumbles through his throat.

“F-fuck!” You gasp, whimpers and moans interrupting any chance you may have at putting words together.

“Taste so fucking good, princess.” He mumbles against you. A shaky moan rattles through you as he pushes a thick finger in, working it gently. His other than grips your hip tightly, pinning you in place. The pet-name sends a shiver down your spine - leaving you rolling your hips and clenching on the finger inside you.

“Fuck, Si…” You gasp, tangling your fingers in his hair.

“I can tell your close, baby.” Simon groans. “Cum for me. Come on, be a good girl and cum all over my fucking tongue.”

The bastard knows the power he has in that voice. He *has* to. That baritone gravel sinks in your veins and all you can do is whimper. Panting pathetically the closer you get. His fingers curl up and your back arches harshly as your climax washes over you. Your legs tremble as he works you through it; stopping just shy of pushing you too far.

“Hey!” You gasp indignantly as a jolt shoots up your spine as he settles a final, harsh suck on your clit.

Simon taps your hip, climbing back over you as you scoot up on the bed. He carelessly kicks off his pants as he goes, toeing them off before settling between your legs. Those dark eyes rake over you leisurely - taking in every inch. Every curve and dip and flaw categorically. He sucks in a breath and sighs. “Bloody ‘ell, look at you… so fuckin’ pretty.”

Your face heats and you look away. “Who’s the flatterer now?”

“Not me. Just bein’ honest.” He places a quick kiss to your soft jawline before reaching over to dig through his nightstand drawer. You don’t miss the gold foil of the condom wrapper.

You can’t stop yourself from licking your lips as he pulls off his boxer briefs. Simon is uncut, already ruddy and leaking and just begging for your mouth. Maybe next time, though. He’s already slipped on the condom, carefully hooking one of your legs over his shoulder and the other around his hip. The man has a laser-focus to him, you’ll give him that.

“Still want t’ keep goin’?” He mumbles, eyes locked on his cock as is drags between your folds.

“*Please*.” You whine pathetically. Simon’s chuckle turns into a gasp as he presses in. It’s achingly slow and you roll your hips in demand for more.

Simon lets out a low groan as his hips meet yours. The stretch is perfect - just enough to feel completely full without pushing you too far. As though your bodies were made to slot together just so. Your head falls back, chest heaving as you beg him to move, to fuck you, just *please* for the love of god-

“Needy little thing.” He gives you a sloppy smile before setting a brutal pace. You find yourself clawing at his back, clinging to him as your back arches and the most obscene sounds are systematically torn from your throat. The angle he has your hips placed causes his cock to bully that sensitive spot inside you - dragging over it with every thrust.

Simon leans toward, bracing himself on his forearms and pinning you under him as he fucks into you. “So fuckin’ good f’me. Knew you would be. So soft and sweet and goddamn *pretty*.”

“*Fuck, Simon*.” You gasp, nose bumping against his as your lips intertwine. Breaths and moans intermingle as you both chase that edge. There’s nothing else, in this moment, just you and Simon and the sounds only he has ever managed to pull from you.

Your orgasm hits you like a train. Out of nowhere and all at once, tensing every muscle into a trembling mess as you clamp down around his cock. Simon sinks his teeth into your neck as his own climax takes him, cradling you close and moaning out your name so muddled you almost miss it.

For a few moments, you stay frozen in place trying to catch your breath as you come down. Your limbs feel like jelly when you finally try to move, body limp and pliable. It almost feels like a loss as he pushes off of you, leaving you open and vulnerable to the cool night air while he ties off the condom.

“Be right back.” He murmurs, slowly climbing off you and heading for an attached bathroom off to the left.

You let your eyes slipped closed only to jump and shoot back open as a dap rag drags between your thighs. A little yelp escapes you as the rough material drags across your oversensitive clit. Simon chuckles at you, tossing the rag back somewhere in the bathroom before crawling into the bed beside you. It’s so easy to curl into his chest and let those strong arms encircle you.

“Have fun, love?” Simon murmurs into your hair.

You just hum happily, smiling against his hard chest.

“Good.”

It’s just as easy as the rest of it to fall asleep like that. To seek out the warmth of his body in your satiated haze and press into him, allowing the night and rhythmic beating of his heart to overtake you. You feel four small taps between your shoulder blades just before tipping over the edge into comfortable nothing.

You wake slowly to an empty bed. The light from the window above you streams in - bathing the room in a light golden tone. It’s cozy. The blankets seem to pull you in, keeping you snugly in place. Distantly, you hear the sound of pots and pans clinking.

Shockingly, you’re not hungover. Well, not much at least. There’s a slight twinge in your head and a not unpleasant soreness in your hips. You dig around, finding your clothes strewn across the room haphazardly. Your underwear are nowhere to be found and you eventually give up with a shrug. They weren’t one of your best pairs anyway.

When you come out of the bedroom, you pause. Simon stands in the kitchen, working on something over the stove wearing only a pair of sweatpants. They hang loosely around his hips, showing off the rises and dips of his strong muscles and well defined waist. This scene somehow feels too intimate despite your activities the night before.

“Perfect timing.” Simon turns, placing a plate down on the kitchen island. The omelette before you looks immaculate, all the way down to a light garnish on top.

Your eyes turn to saucers. “You…you made me breakfast?”

“Course.” He nods sharply as if it’s the most obvious thing in the world. As if *not* doing so would be some sort of affront. Either you’re still asleep and this is all a dream or you stumbled upon the perfect man through pure happenstance.

He turns the stove off and on and off twice before standing at the counter across from you while you sit on one of the stools at the island. It’s a comfortable silence as you both eat. Simon keeps glancing up at you as if waiting for your disapproval. Boyish, somehow, despite the size and breadth of him.

It’s perfect. The eggs practically melt in your mouth and the goat cheese and vegetables taste fresh. You can’t help but him happily as you eat.

By the time you’re done, you think you might be a little in love.

Maybe you should text Cass and thank her or something. Maybe a gift basket. “Oh. My phone’s dead.”

“Didn’t charge it before y’left last night?” Simon cocks an eyebrow, chewing on his last bite.

You snort. “It was last minute, remember?”

“What if I’d been some sort of psycho? What was your plan?” He grins as he takes your empty plate. If you were a more impulsive woman you may have gone so far as to lick the damn thing.

“Are you a psycho?”

“Not generally, no.”

“Well then, nothing to worry about.” You grin, watching a little too happily as he rinses down the dishes and loads the dishwasher.

Simon just scoffs at you.

You glance at the time above the stove, disappointment settling deep in your chest. “Shit. I should get going.”

“I’ll get you a cab.” Simon offers automatically, reaching for his phone.

You shift side to side, twiddling your thumbs. “Y’know… we never finished the movie…”

Simon cocks and eyebrow. From the pleased smirk on his face you can tell he knows what you’re implying. He still patiently waits for you to say it out loud.

“Would, uh, would you want to exchange numbers? Maybe… meet up… again…?” Your voice is more timid than you’d like. This fear of rejection is new. Being rejected is nothing new for you, so why does it suddenly feel so high stakes with this one guy you barely know?

You don’t miss the way his eyes light up ever so slightly at the question. “I’d love to.”

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ao3commentoftheday · 6 months

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i'm curious about the reason ao3 users subscribe to works, previously i assumed that it was used just for WIPs but since writing for a new fandom and reading your blog i've realized its far more common to sub to complete works than i thought. though i appreciate the attention on my works, i was initially frustrated seeing subscription stats on works that were complete, esp bc i have seen readers in this specific fandom insist that writers continue works that they stated were completed. i had considered creating a poll bc i would be interested in the statistics of why readers subscribe to works on ao3, is this a fandom specific behavior or remnants of fandom elders continuing old habits? you can totally ignore this if it's redundant, im mostly just rambling and feel like i dont understand ao3 bc i've only been posting for a few years that i haven't experienced much fandom interaction until recently.

AO3 users are no different from users of any other website. We all make use of features in ways that work for us - even if those ways are different from (or counter to) their intended use.

Some users subscribe to completed works and/or oneshots because they hope authors might come back some day and add on. I once left a oneshot for something like 2 years and then came back and turned it into a 10 chapter fic because I had an idea for something longer and the oneshot was the setup I needed. It saved me writing the start.

Some authors will also add a new chapter onto a completed work to let readers know they've posted a new work in the series. Again, the subscription lets readers know a new work is there for them to go and read.

Other reasons they might do this include:

wanting to show the writer more love. They've commented, kudos'd and bookmarked already, so subscription is all they have left to say "I LOVED THIS!"

similar to this, not realizing what the subscription is so they press it because they're pressing all of the buttons to say ❤️

thinking that the subscribe button on and individual fic will act the same as the subscribe button on an author's profile page. i.e., they think if they hit the subscribe button on the work, that'll set up a subscription to the author instead of the story

finding it easier to sort through subscriptions to find their favourite works because their bookmarks are too numerous or disorganized

This is an individual thing and not a fandom thing. There might be a generational difference, but that's mostly just because the nature of online subscriptions and creator subscriptions has changed over time and the way modern social media handles it is different from how the Archive handles subscriptions. Mostly it just comes down to personal preference and quirks of habit.

Readers, feel free to share if you have another reason for subscribing to completed works. Did I miss any?

#asks and answers

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itsmskeisha · 4 months

Text

OK LISTEN HERE

SINCE HAZBIN HOTEL IS DROPPING SOON I NEED NEW ALASTOR FANFICS STAT ON WATTPAD OR AO3

AND IM NOT TALKIN ABOUT ONESHOTS

NAY NAY

I NEED A FULL LENGTH, MOUTHWATERING, DRAWN OUT, STORY‼️ PLSS IM BEGGING 😭😭

OR EVEN JUST FOR HIATUS FANFICS TO BE UPDATED AGAIN😔😔😪

#alastor #alastor x reader #hazbin alastor #fanfic #wattpad #archive of our own

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akumakosuke · 11 months

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This is just a teaser? Like a random oneshot idfk😭

Prompt: Deku and Y/n have been in a secret relationship since their first year at UA. One day Deku is crying and the truth is revealed.

AU: They're in their third and final year.

Quirk: not important

Genre: ❤️Fluff ❤️

<==================================>

Almost all of Class 3-A are gathered in the common room of the UA Dorms. Bakugo and Y/n are currently training together.

Deku is currently sitting on the 3 seater couch crying his big green eyes out. Everyone tries to comfort him but it's of no use.

He just won't stop crying, so no one can get a response out of him so they don't know what to do.

Normally whenever he cries someone is always able to comfort him. Now it seems as if his only form of comfort isn't here.

Iida stands in front of Deku. Uraraka is to his right and Shoto to his left. Tsu is standing on the right of Iida.

The Bakusquad are behind the couch and the rest of the class are standing around the crying boy.

"Deku calm down!" Iida screams, swinging his arm in a chopping motion.

"I-ida maybe d-don't scream while he's crying?" Uraraka says trying to comfort Deku.

"I apologize!" He yells making Uraraka jump.

She glares at him and turns her attention to a crying Deku.

"Hey, Deku it's okay just tell us what's wrong okay?" She says softly, while rubbing his back.

He doesn't reply instead he keeps crying.

The class starts to get worried.

"Should we call Mr.Aizawa?" Deki asks.

"I think we should bro.." Kiri says looking at a sobbing Deku.

"Something serious could have happened.." Mina says worry laced in his voice.

"He's been crying all day does anyone know anything?" Tsu asks everyone.

Everyone shakes their head no, the room falls into an uncomfortable silence, only Dekus sobs can be heard.

"It's okay Deku, we're all here for you." Uraraka says with a smile.

"T-t-thats *hiccup* that's the problem!" Deku shouts crying even more.

Everyone looks at Deku confused.

"N-not all of yo-you are here." He says sniffling.

"Okay guys let's give Izuku some space." Shoto says standing up. He ushers everyone into the kitchen and turns to them with a serious look.

"I get it now." He states

Everyone looks at Shoto signaling him to continue.

"He misses Bakugo." He says, making everyone look at him with dotted eyes.

"Eh?!" They all scream in unison.

"What do you mean he misses Bakugo?" Momo questions.

"Well he said not all of us are here, and Bakugo's not here, so that means it has something to do with him." Shoto calmly states.

"That makes sense Todoroki!" Denki shouts.

"Then we have to get Bakugo here STAT!" Kiri shouts pulling out his phone.

"Where is Bakugo anyway?" Mina asks.

"He's training with Y/n." Tsu says.

"Hey..what if Deku wants Y/n?" Uraraka asks.

They all look at her and think back on moments with Y/n.

-flashback-

"Hey Y/n! How's it going?" Kiri asks cheerfully.

"Hi. I'm fine." He says with a bored tone and uninterested look.

Kiri sweatdrops at Y/n's unenthusiastic reply.

-----------------------

"Hey Y/n! Wanna hang out after school today?" Denki asks the tall male next to him.

"No." Y/n replied walking away.

Denki stands there in shock.

----------------------

"Hey Y/n!" Mina exclaimed.

"Hi." He says.

"Do you have any plans for our free period today?" She asks.

"No."

"Well do you wanna hang out with us?" She asks pointing to the Bakusquad behind her.

"No." He says walking away.

---------------------

"Y/n, apologize to Mineta." Mr. Aizawa says annoyed.

"I don't apologise to anyone." He says with a bored tone.

-flashback end-

"Yeah no he doesn't seem like the comforting type.." Denki says rubbing the back of his neck awkwardly.

"So it's definitely Bakugo." Kiri says texting bakugo.

-BakuBro 💪🏻-

Me:

Hey Bakubro.

Do you think you could come back to the dorms?

*Seen*

-------

Kiri sweatdrops.

"I'll just call him."

-on the phone-

"WHAT?!" Bakugo screams.

"Look bro. It's an emergency! You need to get back to the dorms ASAP!!"

"WHY?!WHAT HAPPENED?!"

"Look I don't want to freak you out just get here as soon as possible!"

"Urg fine!" Bakugo cuts the call.

-------

"Okay guys he's coming. Let's get back and try and comfort Deku." Kiri says putting his phone away.

They all agree and go to comfort Deku until the one he needs arrives.

-With Bakugo-

"What was that about?" Y/n asks Bakugo who just got off the phone.

"I don't know. Shitty Hair said it's an emergency, so you might want to hurry." Bakugo says crossing his arms.

"I hope everyone's alright. And we can leave now I found it." Y/n says.

"WELL ITS ABOUT TIME!" Bakugo shouts.

"Stop yelling." Y/n says calmly.

"STFU! YOU DON'T GET TO TALK AFTER DRAGGING ME AROUND THE CITY THE ENTIRE DAY JUST TO GET THAT STUPID THING!" He shouts walking away.

Y/n rolls his eyes and follows Bakugo. He puts his hand in his pocket and pulls out a small black box.

He opens it and smiles...

-no one pov-

It's been about half an hour since Kiri called Bakugo telling him to come back to the dorms. The class is still comforting Deku who isn't crying as much anymore.

The door opens and everyone but Deku turns to see who it is. They see Bakugo and Y/n walking in.

Uraraka, Mina, Kiri, Denki and Iida walk up to them.

"FINALLY BAKUBRO!!" Kiri screams.

"WHAT? WHAT'S THE EMERGENCY?!" Bakugo shouts.

Y/n just stands there with a blank expression, not paying attention to the conversation.

"Deku needs you Bakugo!" Uraraka screams.

Y/n furrows his eyebrows and look at the 5 students in front of him.

"What?" Bakugo asks confused.

"Yeah bro! He needs you!" Denki confirms.

Bakugo starts to sweat a little because he knows Deku is taken and that someone is very protective.

"What do you mean, he needs him?" Y/n asks a bit more seriously than usual.

"Well.. he's been crying the whole day and no one's been able to comfort him and he said 'not everyone's here' and the only people missing were you and Bakugo so.." Mina says.

Bakugo's eyes widen. They all turn to Bakugo who currently has a very concerned expression.

"Aww look how worried Bakugo is!" Mina excitedly exclaims.

"shit." He says.

They all look at him in confusion, he glanced at Y/n making everyone confused.

They look at him.

Y/n looks directly at Deku, his face an expression they haven't seen coming from the tall male.

He looks absolutely worried. They have never seen him show any emotion.

They all turn to where he's staring and see he's staring at Deku. They look at Y/n in confusion.

He immediately pushes past them and speed walks to Deku's crying form on the couch.

They all follow him. He stands in front of Deku and kneels down so he's Dekus height.

"Hey hun, why are you crying?" He gently asks.

Everyone looks in shock. They have never heard him speak like that before.

"Y-y/n?" Deku asks slowing lifting his head.

"Yes, I'm here." He says softly. He brings his hand out to wipe away Dekus tears.

Bakugo pushes his way to the front. The rest of the class stands in complete confusion.

"W-where were you today!" Deku shouts crying harder.

Y/n frowns. He hates seeing Deku cry and worst he hates it when Deku cries because of him.

"I'm sorry." Y/n says pulling the smaller male into a hug.

The class goes wide eyed at the sight before them. Not only did The Y/n apologize, which everyone knows he never does but he's also hugging Deku!

Deku grabs onto Y/n and sobs into his chest.

Y/n slowly rubs his back and whispers sweet nothings in Dekus ear so only he can hear.

After a few minutes Deku stops crying. Y/n pulls away from the hug at look at Deku with nothing but pure love in his eyes.

"T-today was our anniversary!" Deku shouts hitting Y/n's chest with his head hung low.

"ANNIVERSARY?!" The class shouts.

Y/n glares at them shutting them up. He turns back to Deku and his eyes immediately soften.

"I know. I'm sorry I didn't spend the day with you." Y/n says not minding Deku hitting him.

"W-where were you?" Deku asks looking up at Y/n, with puffy eyes, a red nose and tear stains on his face.

Y/n hates seeing Deku like this.

"Bakugo was helping me with something.. Something for you actually." He says softly.

Bakugo rolls his eyes and everyone stares intently at Y/n and Deku.

"I was planning on giving it to you at dinner but.." he trails off pulling out a black box.

The class gasps. Deku looks at the box then back at Y/n.

Y/n smiles and cups Dekus face with his free hand.

"Izuku Midoriya. You make me the happiest man alive. I love you and I want to spend the rest of my life with you..." He says opening the box to reveal a silver ring with a green gemstone in the middle.

-refrence-

The class look in shock and excitement.

"Will you make me the happiest man alive and Marry me?" Y/n looks at Deku, with nothing but admiration and love.

Deku look at Y/n and doesn't know what to say.

"I-i-i.." He grabs Y/n and pulls him into a hug while sobbing into his chest.

"Shhhh..it's okay love." Y/n says hugging the smaller male back.

"YES! YES! YES!" Deku screams in his chest.

Y/n eyes slightly widen and he holds on tighter.

Deku slowly pulls back and looks at Y/n with the biggest smile ever.

The entire class 'awwws' at the scene in front of them.

Y/n smiles, tearing up a bit as he slides the ring on Dekus finger. He cups Dekus face with his hands and slowing kisses him.

Deku wraps his hands around Y/n's neck and kisses back. They pull apart for air and rest their foreheads against eachother.

"I love you so much Deku." Y/n says.

"I love you too Y/n"

#top male reader #seme male reader #dom male reader #my hero acadamy #deku x reader #mha #mha fluff #bakugou katsuki #izuku fluff

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vbecker10 · 1 year

Text

Moving Day

Pairing: Loki x female reader (established relationship)

Warnings: kind of smutty (haha as close as I've gotten at least so don't get mad at me), fluff, brothers being brothers, forced brotherly bonding, annoying friends, nothing bad really... should be a fun one I hope (except for the ending possibly lol... there had to be angst somewhere)

Summary: You and Loki have been together for over a year and you are excited to be moving from your small, SHIELD agent quarters in the Tower to his much larger apartment on the Avenger's floor. Loki is looking forward to spending the day alone with you but you've decided to use the downtime between missions as an opportunity to force him and Thor to spend some 'quality time' together. After a few unexpected helpers drop by, you are finally able to get started moving your things into your new place while the two Asgardians bond (hopefully).

A/N: I was reading through some of my longer fic, Shadows of the Past, and I thought this chapter would be a fun little oneshot. I reworked it so you don't need to know anything else about the story to read it (and there is an additional character who isn't in the other version). If you do like it though... it is chapter 42 and the link to the rest of the fic is here Shadows of the Past (work in progress)

Dividers by: @harlequin-hangout

(Y/N POV)

Loki walks into your bedroom and places a few empty boxes on the ground by the door but you don't notice him. You're facing the bed when he quietly comes up behind you, putting his arms around your waist as he gently rests his chest against your back. His touch breaks into your wandering thoughts and you place your hands over his.

"So... what are you thinking about, darling?" he asks, kissing the side of your neck softly and you relax into him.

You think for a moment before you answer, knowing Loki might worry if you tell him the truth but you've never been able to lie to him. You can't help but let a soft moan escape you when you realize he isn't waiting for an answer, he came into your room with a very different agenda in mind. His lips continue to travel up and down your neck slowly, making sure he doesn't miss a single inch of skin while one of his hands begins to slide up from your waist. You forget he had even asked you a question as you lean back against his chest and close your eyes.

His lips move to the base of your neck and you abruptly turn to face him just as his hand stats to massage your breast over your t-shirt. Wrapping your arms around his neck loosely, his hands settle on your lower back, keeping you close to him.

"You can't ask me a question and then do things like that," you giggle as you look up at him.

"Why not?" he asks with an innocent expression and when you roll your eyes he presses his lips to yours. You give into his kiss as his tongue moves against yours. You feel him smile when you run your fingers up and down his back. He bites your bottom lip lightly before releasing your lips and you look up at him.

"See... now I have no idea what you asked me," you tell him honestly with a smile.

"What were you thinking about?" he asks again.

"Oh," you say and he loosens his hold of you slightly. "Nothing, it's stupid," you tell him with a shrug but you can tell by the look he gives you that he isn't going to accept that answer.

"I just..." you try to find the right words. "I mean, this is the first place I've ever had that was just mine. I know I don't own it and it's just the standard SHIELD housing all the other agents get too but... it's still my first place." You look around the room briefly then back up at Loki, his smile missing from his lips.

"Are you rethinking moving in with me?" he asks quietly.

"No! No, of course not," you tell him, touching his check softly and he nods. Even after two years you could tell he worried you would betray him or leave him like he thought everyone else in his life has done. "You know I couldn't be more excited to live with you right?" you ask and he nods again but this time his smile returns. "Is just that this is a big change for me. I moved in here right after I graduated from college so I guess I'm going to miss it a bit... I have so many great memories here, with my friends and with you," you tell him, reaching up to kiss his cheek.

"Speaking on fond memories here," he starts, "Do you know what my favorite memory in this apartment is?" he asks you and shake your head, unsure of whether his answer will be about one of the numerous times the two of you made love in the various rooms or if it will be genuinely sweet. "When you were trying to teach me how to make pasta and you 'accidentally' admitted you had a crush on me."

You laugh and playfully hit him in the chest, "You tricked me into telling you that."

He pretends to be offended and says, "I didn't trick you. I simply asked a serious of very well thought out questions. How was I to know it would actually work?"

"Mmhmm," you hum in response, crossing your arms but still letting him hold you loosely. "You know... you could have at least told me you liked me too. Did you really need to wait almost a week to ask me out afterwards? I nearly died of embarrassment."

He smiles but doesn't answer, you sigh mildly annoyed at the fact that he will probably never explain to you what took him so long. Instead, he closes the small space that had slowly grown between the two of you and you uncross your arms as he leans down to kiss you. You kiss him back, running your fingers through his long curls. His fingers grip your hips tightly and he picks you up suddenly causing you to gasp in surprise but he keeps his lips sealed to yours, kissing you deeply. You wrap your legs around him, one arm still around his neck while you pull his hair with your other hand and he bites your lip in response. Loki moves to the foot of the bed and drops you carefully onto your back. He looks down at you with a smile you know means you're not leaving this bed any time soon. Your legs dangle off the edge and you begin to move towards the pillows.

“Where do you think you're going?” he chuckles. He grabs you by your ankles and easily pulls you back to him, you giggle with nervous excitement. Loki kneels on the edge of the bed then he positions himself on top of you. His lips quickly find yours again as you feel his body press you into the soft mattress. Your fingers coil through his hair as his kisses trail down your jaw, neck and collar bones. Your back arches to meet his lips as he kisses every inch of skin on your check that is exposed by the deep v neck of your t- shirt. One of his hands is next to your head, gripping the sheet and supporting him, while the other finds the hem of your t-shirt. He slowly slides his hand up your stomach, his fingers causing goosebumps to form as they move under your shirt.

You hear three sharp knocks at the front door to your apartment and your grip on the back of Loki's shirt tightens. "Loki?" you try to get his attention but he presses his hips down against yours and continues to kiss your neck as if he hasn't heard the person waiting at your door. You bite your lip to quiet a moan as Loki slides your shirt higher, his fingers moving steadily upwards.

"Ignore it, love," he whispers and you can't help but nod, his lips barely touching your ear. You forget about your visitor when Loki's lips meet yours again, one of your hands moves down his back to his ass and he chuckles against your mouth when you squeeze his cheek.

Two more loud knocks break your focus from Loki. His lips leave your skin as he sits up, his attention shifting to the one responsible for interrupting his time with you. "Who in the nine realms could that possibly be?" he asks, not expecting you to answer. You look away, avoiding any eye contact with the annoyed God above you. He looks down at you, surprised to see you aren't as upset about being disturbed as he is. "Y/N?" he asks, slowly tilting your face so you are looking directly up at him and you smile nervously.

"I... um... I invited your brother over," you mumble from underneath his large frame.

He looks at you in shock and at the sound of two more knocks, he groans loudly. He drops his head down on the bed next to yours and you stifle a laugh at how cute he looks when he is annoyed.

"Come on," you rub his back lightly and he lifts his head just enough to look at you. "It could be fun," you say hopefully.

He sighs in response, clearly not believing you and if you were being honest, you weren't sure if you believed that either. This had the potential to be a great experience for both of them or a complete and utter disaster.

Loki moves so he is sitting on the edge of the bed, squeezing the bridge of his nose with his eyes closed tight. You climb off the bed, fixing your hair and adjusting your t-shirt as you stand in front of Loki. He opens his eyes and you lean down to kiss him lightly, a smile begin to creep across his lips and you quickly take a step back. He reaches out, catching you easily around the waist and pulls you back to him.

"Tell him to leave," Loki urges with a smirk as he looks up, one hand remains around your waist while the other strokes your cheek.

He runs his fingers under your chin and brings your lips to his and you feel yourself giving into him once again. With his arm still holding your waist, he lifts you onto his lap and then he tries to pull you with him back onto the bed. You break the kiss and put your hands on his shoulders to separate yourself from him. You smile while shaking your head at his attempt to continue where he left off.

You wanted nothing more in this moment then to tell Thor to go away and let Loki take you on your bed one more time before you move but you had a plan and you needed to stick to it. He would just have to be patient and wait until the move was finished and his brother leaves to continue. A part of you was very excited about the idea that Loki would more be desperate for you all day. That hadn't originally been a part of your plan but it wasn't something you were going to complain about. You knew from past experiences, the more frustrated you made Loki during the day, the longer your night was going to be when he was finally able to have you. You smile to yourself as you think it was a good thing you had taken off from work tomorrow. It was still early but based on the way the day was progressing, you were going to need your rest after tonight.

He groans in defeat, letting go of you as he lays on the bed with his hands over his face. "Don't be so dramatic Mischief," you laugh, taking one of his hands and pulling him to a seated position. "It wouldn't kill you to be nice to your brother for a few hours."

"No, but I might very well kill him," he suggests and you sigh as you leave your bedroom, checking over your shoulder to make sure he is following you. You walk quickly through the living room as Thor knocks again. You had to give it to him, the God of Thunder was persistent.

“Hey Thor, sorry about that. We didn't hear you knocking. Come on in,” you say with a welcoming smile.

"Ah, I will have to remember to knock louder next time,” he replies.

"Wonderful," Loki says sarcastically as he leans on the wall next to the couch, his arms crossed tightly.

You ignore Loki's mood and so does his older brother. "Thanks for coming," you tell him.

"Of course. Always glad to help," he replies happily as he gives you a hug, lifting you a few inches off the ground.

“Careful not to crush her, brother” Loki says protectively from behind you and Thor sets you down. Before you can say anything to either of them, there is another series of loud knocks and you quickly make eye contact with Loki. He looks more annoyed than he did when Thor entered, if possible and you shrug to let him know you don't know who it is either.

"Uh, hi Steve," you say when you open the door again.

Steve gives you a quick hug and you take a step back so he can come into your apartment. “Thor told me you were moving today and we figured you could use the extra hands,” he says cheerfully, Thor pats him on the back before taking a seat on your couch.

"Um, yea this is great. Thanks," you force a smile as you start to close the door. You hear footsteps down the hall and poke your head out to see Sam and Bucky slowly coming towards your apartment. You open the door wide and take a step out to meet them, "What are you guys doing here?"

"There are more of them?" Loki asks in no one in particular as he throws his hands up.

Sam walks past you into your room with a small almost apologetic wave while Bucky explains, “Steve made us come."

Steve rolls his eyes at Bucky and you laugh a little at his honesty. "Is anyone else coming?" you ask Steve nervously as you close the door.

"There better not be," Loki says sternly.

"Nope, just us," Steve answers, either unaware of how much he is annoying Loki with his presence or not caring.

You look around your living room at Thor who has made himself at home on your couch with his feet on your coffee table, Loki leaning against the wall near his brother, grinding his teeth so harshly you can almost hear it and your three friends standing by your door. “Wow... so I have two Gods," you point at the brothers making Thor smile and Loki roll his eyes again, "Two super soldiers," you count Bucky and Steve who gives you a thumbs up, "And-"

"And Sam," Bucky finishes for you with a smile, obviously pleased with himself.

"Right... and Sam," you laugh as Sam hits Bucky in the left arm, regretting it instantly. "My point is, I'm just moving from one floor to another and I've got a ton of help," you tell them.

“Surely one God is more than enough,” Loki insists with a wide smile as he walks over to you, his arms stretched out dramatically.

You walk into his waiting arms and kiss his cheek, whispering to him, “It's going to be fun, I promise."

“What would be fun is finishing what we started before my idiot brother and the others showed up,” he replies, his hand quickly moves to cup your backside and he squeezes it causing you to gasp then playfully hit his hand away.

“We can do that tonight, in our place,” you tell him and he sighs knowing once you have set your mind to something, there is little he can do to change it.

The room is quiet for a moment then Steve asks “So... what do you need us to do?” awkwardly as he claps his hands together.

“Leave,” Loki answers immediately, waving vaguely towards the door and you put your hand over his mouth.

"Sounds good to us," Bucky agrees with a shrug and Sam opens the door to the hallway but Thor doesn't move from his seat on the couch.

“He’s just kidding,” you tell them as Loki licks your hand causing you to pull it away quickly, he winks in response and you roll your eyes but can't help letting out a slight laugh. It wasn't the first time he licked you but he didn't usually do it around the team and it was typically in a less joking manner.

"Get back here," Steve closes the door, keeping Sam and Bucky from leaving. "You guys said you were happy to help Y/N out today," he reminds them.

"That's not even close to what we said," Sam replies as he shakes his head.

"We said we were happy to not have to go on a ten mile run with you this morning," Bucky corrects Steve.

“There isn’t a lot to move honestly, I think this should be pretty quick,” you promise everyone with a forced smile and no one replies.

Thor breaks the silence by getting up and hugging you again, he says, "Well I'll help you with whatever you need. I'm just so happy for the two of you. Moving in together is a big step in any relationship.” He sets you down and turns his attention towards Loki who takes a step backwards from his brother. For a second, you think Thor might actually catch him in a hug but the God of Mischief is just quick enough, narrowly avoiding his outstretched arms at the last second.

You laugh as you watch them together. They might not be related by blood but there is no doubt in your mind that they are brothers.

"I don't see why you need to make such a fuss," Loki tells Thor. "Y/N has spent almost every night at my place since we started dating. Most of her clothes and a fair amount of her belongings are already there."

"That's the whole point," you explain and Loki looks at you. "It was your place, but now it'll be our place."

"I understand that, darling, but I'm still not giving anyone a hug over it," Loki mumbles as he keeps his distance from Thor.

"I always knew he was the sentimental type," Sam says sarcastically to Bucky but when Loki glares at him he steps slightly behind Steve.

"Oh, don't look at him like that," you tell Loki and he looks down, putting his hands in his pockets. Sam steps out from behind Steve. "You and I both know you're excited about me moving in with you," you say with your hands on your hips.

"Of course I am excited," he agrees, "But I would be more excited if this whole experience hadn't turned into a team building exercise."

You put your arms around his neck and look up at him, "Look at it this way, the more help we have the faster I can move and the sooner we will be alone." You wink at the word 'alone' and he smiles.

"Very well," he tells you and you pull back, smiling up at him. You kiss his cheek quickly and take his hand as you decide what everyone should help with.

"Ok..." you think. "I guess Steve and Bucky, you guys can pack up the kitchen. Sam, you can help me out here in the living room," they all nod but Loki raises an eyebrow as he waits for you to tell him what you need him to do. "Loki, you and Thor can finish up in the bedroom. Most of my clothes are upstairs already but there are still some things in the back of the closet that need to be boxed up." Thor slaps Loki on the back cheerfully and everyone splits up to their assigned spaces.

You glance uncomfortably at the closed door to your bedroom while you place the picture frames Sam hands you into a box. At first the door had been left open but about fifteen minutes into packing, Thor closed it. He didn't slam it, he didn't shut it hard, he just calmly closed it without a word to anyone. For the first few minutes after it was closed, you found yourself waiting anxiously for Loki to open the door and storm out of the room or for the screaming to start but nothing happened. You weren't sure if the quiet made you more or less worried but you hoped that meant they were finally talking, you didn't even care what they were talking about just as long as it didn't lead to a fight.

You make sure to flash a bright smile when Bucky and Steve walk into the living room with four boxes from the kitchen. You were thankful for the extra help of course but your plan was to use today as a means of literally forcing the two brothers together, even if it killed one of them. You hated that the only time they spent together outside of missions was to train a few hours a week. They only spoke during training sessions to criticize each other or to gloat. As soon as the session was over, they went their separate ways because if they were together any longer, they would begin fighting.

Despite what Loki may think, you know Thor still cares for his younger brother the same way he always had, before they found out Laufey was his real father, before he fell from the Bifrost, before Thanos manipulated him into attacking New York. Thor had told you how he felt about Loki one horribly long night several months ago.

Loki had been badly injured during a failed mission and remained unconscious even after he had been brought back to the Tower. Thor waited with you by Loki’s bedside in the infirmary until he finally woke up the next morning. You held Loki's hand waiting for him to open his eyes while Thor told you stories about how close they had been as children. He smiled broadly as he recounted the numerous pranks he had been the victim of and the dozens of spells that had been practiced on him.

The next day, you thanked Thor for sitting with you but you told him it made you sad to think that they had grown so far apart in such a few years. A part of you worried that Loki would keep pushing Thor further and further away until his older brother finally gave up and left.

Thor smiled at you and told you never needed to worry about that happening. He put his hand on your shoulder and said, "I will always be here for Loki, whether he wants me to be or not. He will always be my brother."

"Do you think this is a good idea?" Sam asks as he takes down the last picture that was hanging over your couch. You stare blankly at him, having been too lost in your thoughts to hear his question the first time.

He asks again and this time you answer. "I'm honestly not sure but I hope so," you reply nervously.

Steve and Bucky place the boxes full of pots, pans and cooking utensils by your front door. Loki had a much larger kitchen then you did but the only time he used it was to make himself tea.

"I think it's a great idea, Y/N," Steve says optimistically. "What could possibly go wrong?"

Bucky sighs loudly, "They could end up trying to kill each other and destroy half the Tower in the process."

"My money is definitely on Loki," Sam says without looking away from the box he is sealing up but he turns when he feels everyone looking at him. "What? Oh come on, Loki is scary as hell."

Bucky shrugs, neither agreeing or disagreeing with him. Steve nods and says, "You make an interesting point and he does seem to be in a bit of a mood today."

"Yeah, because he's usually so excited to see all of us," Bucky says as he sits on the couch. Steve takes a seat next to him and Sam places the box he is done with on top of the pile they had started.

"Hmm..." Steve thinks. "I think I would have to go with Thor, in a fight between them I mean. Especially if he had Mjolnir." He mimics swinging the hammer and Sam laughs as you sit on the floor by the box you are filling with books. You try to ignore them as you feel a headache beginning to form.

"Yea, hopefully we'll have enough time to duck if Thor calls for it otherwise it'll take us out when it comes flying through here," Bucky adds.

"The good news is, it doesn't sound like they are fighting... Unless Loki just used his magic to turn Thor into a house plant or something," Sam jokes.

"Do you think he could actually do that?" Steve wonders and Bucky puts his hand over his face.

"Ok, you guys know what?" you interrupt them and they all look over at you. "This isn't actually helping," you tell them, rubbing your eyes as your headache thumps.

"Sorry about that Y/N," Steve says sheepishly and the others nod.

"We'll bring these upstairs for you," Sam says.

The three of them pick up all the boxes stacked by the door and leave, closing the door quietly behind them. You get up from where you are sitting next to your bookshelf and walk slowly over to your bedroom door. Leaning against it carefully, you try to hear what is going on inside. The door swings open just as your ear touches the wood and you stand up straight, trying to act like you weren't trying to eavesdrop. You giggle nervously as Thor looks down at you with a smile.

"He's all yours," he says, walking past you with two large boxes and a duffel bag.

You close the door slightly at you go inside and see Loki closing the drawers on your now empty dresser. "Hi Mischief," you say, testing his mood as you walk over to him.

He turns and smiles at you, "Hello love."

"So... it looks like you didn't turn your brother into a houseplant," you say, pointing over your shoulder towards where your had gone.

"I would never do that," he responds seriously then with a smirk he adds, "I did turn him into a frog a few times when we were children though."

"You did what!?" you ask in disbelief and he laughs, taking a seat on your bed which has been stripped down to just the mattress.

"Don't worry, the effects never lasted very long," he explains and you sit next to him.

He puts his arm around your waist and pulls you close to him, you rest your head on his shoulder. You sit quietly for a moment, he lets go of your waist and slowly runs his fingers up and down your back, you can feel your headache slipping away as you relax. "So does this mean you aren't mad at me for leaving you alone with Thor?" you ask.

He shakes his head then says, "I'm not." You don't say anything in the hopes that he will tell you what happened and after a minute or two he takes a deep breath. "Thor told me that you are worried the distance growing between us."

You nod and sit up so you can look at him, taking his hand. He admits, "I was worried too. We used to talk about anything but ever since Laufey and Thanos, it's been hard if not impossible at times."

"I thought..." he pauses for a second, "I assumed he blamed me for having to leave Asgard. I had been under the impression that he was being forced to stay here in order to watch over me but he said he chose to stay so I wouldn't be alone."

He shakes his head and looks down at the floor, you squeeze his hand and he looks back at you. "I'm so glad you two talked and were honest with each other," to tell him with a smile.

"We still have more to talk about but I feel optimistic for the first time in a years," he says, "I don't know how to thank you for this. I love you, Y/N."

"I love you too," you tell him then you lean forward and kiss him. He kisses you back, his hand resting lightly on your cheek and his other hand moves to your waist. You giggle against his lips as he pulls you effortlessly onto his lap. You run your fingers through his hair and continue to kiss him as he lays back on the bed, pulling you with him.

You sit up quickly at the sound of two sharp knocks on your partial closed bedroom door. You look over your shoulder and see Thor standing in the doorway looking anywhere but at you. "Um..." he says, "We finished bringing everything upstairs."

"Thanks Thor," you answer. "We'll be right up."

He closes the door and you laugh as you try to get up but Loki keeps his arms around you. You kiss his nose and he groans, "To be continued?" You smile and nod as you get up.

"Thanks for all your help guys!" you say to everyone as you place the last empty box in the pile by the door. You still can't believe how quickly packing and unpacking went, especially when Loki decided to use his magic to try and hurry the process along. He barely had to flick his wrist and all of the kitchenware was neatly organized in the cabinets.

You ask them, "Is anyone hungry? I can order some food if you want."

Loki shakes his head and says, "Haven't they been here long enough, love?"

You roll your eyes but smile again as Bucky answers, "I could always go for pizza."

"Same," Sam agrees, raising his hand unnecessarily.

"I would never turn down food," Thor says.

"Oh, pizza sounds good," Steve smiles, throwing himself into Loki's reading chair in the corner. Thor and Bucky make themselves comfortable on the couch and Sam drags over a chair from the dining room to the coffee table.

Loki comes behind you and puts his arms around you, holding you tight to his chest. "You know if you feed them, they will never leave," he whispers as he kisses just below your ear. You laugh and you look up, giving him your most charming smile. "Very well," he gives in, "Pizza it is."

"Coming right up," you say, kissing Loki's cheek as you free yourself from his long arms.

You pick up your phone from the coffee table and look up the number for your favorite place. You ask your friends what toppings they want and while they are discussing it Steve’s phone goes off. At the same time Sam and Bucky's phones goes off as well as Thor and Loki's. All five of them take out their phones and read the message, the smiles gone from their faces.

“This can’t be good,” you put your phone down and walk over to Loki.

Thor shakes his head, then he stands up from his seat on the couch, “It's not. I'm sorry Y/N, we have to go.”

"Please be safe," you tell them, giving each of your friends a hug as they leave. "I love you," you whisper to Loki as he hugs you tightly.

He kisses you then runs his fingers down your cheek lightly. "I love you too. I will be back soon," he promises you and you force a smile as he closes the door, leaving you standing alone in your shared apartment.

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babyboiboyega · 1 year

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We are the Champions (Athlete!Shuri x GF!Reader)

Athlete!Shuri x GF!Reader

Summary: Dating an athlete meant constantly traveling for games and reassuring her when she needed it. Dating a champion meant having to fight for some alone time with her.

Word Count: 8.6k

Content: nothing but fluff y’all; well, the slightest bit of angst if you squint, but its really not angst at all; softball references; profanity; Shuri and Ri as athletes, that’s a warning in and of itself.

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A/N: HEY! Sorry I’ve been gone, but here’s a little oneshot that I was really excited to write after having a dream about it as an apology! Of course, thanks to Liya for giving me the idea of making her a softball player!

I tried to make sure that the rules of softball were explained pretty easily in this, but if you have ANY questions, don’t hesitate to reply with them or send me a lil message! I got yall :) But I will put a few definitions for a few words, just in case!

Also, the Women’s National World Series is fictional and based on the Women’s College World Series, but I just made it different to fit the ages as yall aren’t in college anymore in this oneshot! The UCLA Bruins is an actual team and they’re a mf beast, I actually love watching them play softball, but they’re a college team. But just forget that and pretend like they’re a little older and out of college lmao

“Ump/ Umpire”: a person who watches the game and enforces the rules; think of a referee

“Pitcher’s Mound”: the place in the middle of the field where a pitcher stands and pitches.

“Back catcher”: the person who squats behind the batter and in front of the ump who catches the ball the pitcher throws.

The last play is also called a “drop play”. To put it simply, if the back catcher drops the ball on the third strike, the batter can run to try and get to first base. In this scenario, there’s a runner on third who takes their chance at getting to home plate while the back catcher is getting the ball. When the back catcher isn’t at home plate, its up to the pitcher to be there and cover it, which is what happens here. I hope that’s easy to understand LMAO

Go and read! Hope y’all enjoy!

Song Inspo (the songs that were on replay while writing):

- Lockdown : Koffee

- Found : Tems feat. Brent Faiyaz

- Essence : Wizkid, Tems

- Gonna love me : Teyana Taylor

*******

Beyond the large opening were stands filled with softball fans, eager to see which team would win the WNWS (The Women’s National World Series): The UCLA Bruins… or The Panthers of Wakanda. Excitement radiated from every part of the stands and the field, from fans and players alike. The Panthers would be going against a team known for winning the WNWS multiple times; a team that was a huge fan favorite and famous for their wins and their skill.

This was only The Panthers' first time making it to the championships, and there had been multiple news outlets, sports companies, and fans in general that had doubted their abilities and how they had gotten here. It didn't matter if each player's stats spoke for them, or if their wins as a team were highly impressive for one as new as theirs; they'd always be doubted just a little more than other teams. It was partly the reason why they worked so hard to get to where they were today, as a way of telling all of those who doubted them that despite their words and their insults, they had gotten here on their own. The other part was simply because it always felt good to win, and winning the championships would accomplish both of those goals.

Shuri's confidence in her team never wavered, nor did it when it came to her own abilities, but there was something about today. Maybe it was because it was the championship and they were on UCLA's home turf, and the home team always had an advantage in some way, whether it came from crooked umps or boosted morale; or maybe it was because she was their top pitcher, and everyone was looking to her to close out the game in their favor. But as she leaned against the wall of the hallway, trying her hardest to block out the buzzing noise in the stands and the announcer's voice booming over the speakers about damn hotdogs, she suspected it was the latter.

You didn't have to be in Shuri's mind or hear her thoughts to know them; you could deduce from the nervous passing back and forth of the bright yellow ball in her hands that she was temporarily trapped between fighting thoughts of self-doubt and embracing the confident ones that would ensure her a straight head while on the field. It was a scene that you had walked in on many times before important games, and this time was no different. Not for you at least.

A soft 'psst' left your mouth as you approached, and it prompted her to immediately raise her head and turn towards you. Her mouth had been pursed in thought when she first looked at you, but they quickly upturned slightly as she copied the noise

"What's goin on, babe?"

Shuri knew better than to lie, and it wasn't just because she knew you would get on her. You had the ability to read her as well as she could read herself, and you weren't afraid to use this skill when you felt she was downplaying her feelings. She had learned early on in the relationship that that shit wouldn't fly with you; it was something you constantly reminded her of in times like this.

You paused in front of where she rested against the wall, resting your homemade sign against the wall beside her. It was a simple black poster with gold trimming and the words 'Wakanda Forever" on it in silver letters that sparkled. On the other side, it said 'I'm with #15' - Shuri's number. When she had first seen it she had thrown her head back and laughed before nodding and pulling you in for a kiss. 'Damn right, you are' she had mumbled against your lips; ever since then, you had kept it in pristine condition.

"I thought I was fine, but that was before I saw the pitcher's mound. Now…I'm feeling the pressure."

Her voice was slightly rough around the edges, a hint of frustration creeping into it; no doubt aimed at herself. The ball hit her glove a little harder after she spoke, and her eyebrows furrowed slightly. It was obvious that she was delving deeper into those thoughts, and doing that would only make the pressure grow for her. You turned and leaned against the wall beside her, giving her space but standing close enough to where her arm brushed against yours whenever she moved it.

"A bit of pressure is good, it means you care about the game. It means you wanna win, which I know you do."

The corner of her mouth lifted a little more as she glanced over at you, her head nodding in agreement. The ball paused where it rested in her glove.

"Of course I do. We've gotten this far despite everything- we have to win."

The determination in her voice didn't go unnoticed, but neither did the slight shakiness of it. Her eyes stayed focused on the bright yellow ball, her eyebrows furrowed and her jaw clenched slightly.

"It'll be amazing for you to win…but even if that doesn't happen, and that's a huge fuckin 'if'," she huffed out a small laugh, shaking her head. "It matters that you got here in the first place. A lot of people didn't want you to get here but look at y'all. Can't tell y'all shit."

You weren't the best at giving motivational speeches, but one thing you excelled in was making sure Shuri was good whenever you knew she wasn't. And if your words couldn't do the trick, you'd simply move on to the acts that you knew would. This situation called for a bit of both; it had to do with Shuri's self-confidence and how she applied it to something she was passionate about and damn good at.

Anyone could see how much she loved playing softball; it was just as easy to see how good she was at the game, but you knew exactly how much it impacted her life. She hadn't started at a young age, but she had always been connected to the sport in some way.

Her brother, T'Challa, had played baseball for their country, and he had been a star player in every sense of the word. Shuri had looked up to her brother- she still did, and that included wanting to be like him in every way she could. So it only made sense that when she was big enough, she had begged him to teach her how to throw correctly and how to swing a bat, and of course, being an older sibling who spoiled and loved on their younger sibling, he had done exactly that. He had been the first one to see her potential in the sport, and while he hadn't pressured her to try out for a team, he had always reminded her of what all she could do and how talented she was- even when she moved to America to pursue an education.

He had gifted Shuri her first bat when she had joined her first team in secondary school, middle school being the equivalent for Americans, and he had been in attendance at every game and tournament she'd had. Even after he had grown sick, he had promised her that he'd try his hardest to make it to every single game, and he had held that promise all the way until the time of his death. But Shuri had once told you that he still attended every game she had, as she still carried around that bat that he had gifted to her. She had outgrown it a while ago, but the metal still bore her brother's handwriting and it still held sentiment, so it'd always be like he was with her.

You had known her at the time of T'Challa's death, having met her in your first year of college and his death happening during both of your second years, and you had never seen her attend a game without the bat. In fact, that same bat peeked out of the side of her softball bag as it leaned against the wall next to you two, her eyes naturally drifting to it as another source of comfort.

It took no effort at all to reach for her hand, taking her glove off and placing it on top of her bag before lacing your fingers through hers, and then you were stepping around to face her. The curve of her back rested against the wall, though as you stepped around, she straightened slightly. Her gaze connected with yours and you could see the smallest bit of turmoil in them.

"What did T'Challa always say?"

The question was the beginning of a pre-game ritual you two always did, and the recognition made her smile grow in the slightest. There were traces of lingering sadness, but it was inevitable when she spoke of her brother. It wasn't exactly a mournful sadness, but rather one that showed how his memory lived on in everything she did.

"He'd say 'stay in the game.'"

"Exactly." You squeezed her hand as you raised it, placing it on your chest over the spot where your heart was while your other hand rested over where hers beat. It was something the two of you had started a while ago, following her first anxiety attack before a game. The game had been the first one she'd had to play after T'Challa's passing, and the only thing that had gotten her out of the locker room and onto the field had been you sitting in the corner of the locker room with her. You had placed her hand on your heart so that she could feel something solid and calm enough for her to try and match, the same way you were doing now.

Her heart wasn't beating as fast as it had been then, but it was still slightly faster than normal, and the little ritual still worked no matter how skilled she was at the sport.

"That means you take all of those thoughts that are frustrating you, and confront them by playing the game the way you know how to. You know you're good at what you do. Your team is good. Go out there knowing that they got your back, babe."

It was obvious that she was taking your words and trying her best to not only commit them to memory but also apply them to the current situation. She always did, eventually, but the importance of today's game made the process a little longer. You knew she had told herself whatever she needed when her eyes closed momentarily, a deep and slow breath flowing through her body. Her thumb absentmindedly rubbed your collarbone, something that was more for her benefit but still felt good to you.

It only took a minute or two for her to open her eyes, a look of decisiveness now accompanying that look of determination on her face. Her gaze once again met yours, a deep appreciation gleaming in them as her smile grew.

"And you say you're bad at pep speeches." You could practically see the clouds of self-doubt receding from over her as she spoke, laughter in her words. It made your own smile grow.

"Because I am. I just know you well enough to say the right things."

She hummed in agreement, her eyebrows raising slightly as she nodded. Her hand shifted, following the length of your arm before resting over yours where it still resided on her chest. You had been with her for 3 years and her touch still threatened to steal the breath from you, and she loved to remind you. As much was evident in the way her smile grew almost teasing as she used your hand to pull you closer until the tips of your shoes scraped against her cleats.

"You always know what to say, don't you? How'd you even know I was back here anyway? Not that I don't appreciate you coming to check on me, it's very sweet of you-" You smacked your teeth, lightly kicking her foot at her joking and causing a laugh to escape her mouth.

"Ri told me 'you should go and check on your girl', so here I am, checkin' on my girl." You reached a hand up, raising her visor to see her face clearly. Not only did her touch continue to affect you, but the look of adoration in her eyes as she looked down at you still managed to send shivers down your spine.

The joy and excitement on her face made your own anticipation for the game grow, knowing that it'd be an evenly matched game and knowing that if there was one thing Shuri would do, she'd make sure to play her ass off. It was always amazing watching her play…and hot.

(It was the uniform that hugged her legs. And the tucked-in shirt. And the short sleeves that bared her muscular arms from years of playing. And most definitely the sounds she made whenever she pitched or hit-)

"I should be out there getting ready to lead the wave for when y'all start-"

A sound left her mouth, partly horrified and partly comical. Leave it to her to be dramatic.

"Absolutely not, you don't do the wave at a softball game, when have you ever seen someone start the wave at a softball game-"

"Uh, today, the fuck? I'll do whatever I damn well please, Udaku."

She threw her head back as she laughed loudly, the sound making your own laugh bubble up from your throat. It completely drowned out all other sounds, effectively creating a bubble of tranquility around the two of you that you both were reluctant to leave.

She continued to gaze at you once her laughter had died down, a soft smile taking over her face. The pre-game ritual always ended with some sort of physical contact, and you knew that it was coming next as she released your hands to wrap hers around your waist, pulling you flush against her.

Your movements worked in tandem with hers as you slid her team visor off, showing off her cornrows that formed a pattern on her scalp. It was only that morning that you found yourself oiling them while she rested between your legs, head leaned back and eyes closed in contentment. You could still smell traces of the manuka oil you had used as you leaned your forehead against hers, letting out a small sigh that she immediately copied.

"You got this, usana." The nickname rolled effortlessly off your tongue, as you had heard it so many times that it was now a part of your regular vocabulary when it came to Shuri. The term of endearment resulted in Shuri's smile growing, her arms tightening around your waist.

Her shoulders had dropped as you two talked, the tension melting away and making way for the adrenaline she usually felt right before each game. Her jaw had unclenched, apparent in the relaxed feeling of it as you raised your hands to hold her face.

"And when y'all win- when, not if- we'll find some way to celebrate. Just the two of us. We can both take a break and just go somewhere, alright?"

There was a short silence between you two before she pulled back slightly, nodding her head.

"…only if you promise not to do the wave."

"See, I'm just tryna be nice and cute, and you playing games, Shuri-"

Not only were your words cut off because of her laugh, but they were quickly stopped as she leaned forward, placing her lips on yours. She placed a hand on your back and used it to press your body closer to hers while her other moved to tilt your chin up.

Not only did her touch have the ability to steal your breath away, but it also made you completely forget that she had a game to play. The reminder came in the form of one of her teammates appearing in the large opening that led to the field. Ri's voice traveled effortlessly and popped that bubble of tranquility surrounding you two.

"Ayo! I told you to check on your girl, not fuck her in the tunnel! We got a game to play, let's go!"

She received an annoyed eye roll and a curse in Xhosa from Shuri but only smiled and turned, bouncing back into the dugout. The interruption served its purpose for as soon as Ri was out of sight, Shuri was letting out a breath and picking up her glove, slipping it onto her hand. You couldn’t ignore the longing in her eyes or in your chest even if you wanted to, but she had a job to do.

Her smile had the makings of someone who knew exactly what they were about to get themselves into but still carried that small bit of remaining anxiety, but it was easy to see that she was okay. She'd be okay; you knew it and now she did too.

"I'll see you in the stands."

She held out a hand and you immediately grabbed it, the both of you completing the little handshake you did before each game. It was another ritual stemming from when you had absentmindedly created it while playing with her fingers before a game, and she had insisted that your actions had given her that extra bout of good luck for that game. Now, before each game, she had to complete the handshake with you, otherwise, she'd feel a little lost on the field.

"And I'll see you on the field."

And just as every single one of your handshakes ended, she pulled you quickly to her, planting a kiss on your lips before squeezing your hand and letting go. There was a cheeky smile on her face as she grabbed her bag, slinging it over a shoulder before sending a wink your way.

"We've got a game to win."

********

"Folks, we're at the bottom of the 7th and last inning with The Panthers having 8 runs and The Bruins having 7. It's been a tense battle on the field today, both teams evenly matched in defense and runs."

The game had been tense but in the best way possible. The Panthers would never let The Bruins get too far ahead, and vice versa. While the home team could hit exceptionally well, The Panthers played defense as if their livelihoods depended on it. You had seen Riri go airborne to catch a ball, watching and wincing as she had fallen to the ground in a heap of limbs; she had caught the ball, though, and it had been an out. You’d had a front-row seat to her girlfriend letting out a string of curses, muttering ‘I’m not tryna go to the hospital while in California, she better chill out.’

You had also seen Shuri run right into the padded wall separating the stands from the field trying to catch a ball. Of course, she had caught it, but you had also let a few curses slip after seeing her fall to the ground.

Being the girlfriend of an intense and serious softball player is kinda stressful.

"That's right, John, its been incredibly entertaining and a treat watching these two teams. The Panthers have come a long way from being the underdogs to now holding their own against the reigning champs of the tournament."

Even in a professional setting like a championship, there were still fans who had no trouble talking out of the side of their neck. If the ump called a play that ruled in favor of The Panthers, there were always groans and yells of anger that echoed across the field. At one point, a woman with horrible extensions had yelled at the ump for calling one of Shuri's pitches a strike. 'Stop giving them handouts' she had yelled, her voice shrill and laced with all kinds of malice.

It had taken a stern look from Nakia in the dugout and all of your willpower not to turn around and offer your own handouts of ass-whoopings to the lady. The last thing anyone had needed was you getting into a fight with a middle-aged white woman who had wanted to show her ass after seeing a successful, all-black softball team.

"You're right, Steve, and it all comes down to this. Shuri Udaku, number 15 of The Panthers is pitching to Layla Cavanaugh, number 22 of the California Bruins. Home team has two outs, and this pitch has 3 balls and two strikes. It's all falling on whether Udaku can get this last strike or whether her team can stop number 7 on third from scoring. If they get this last out, The Panthers are going home with the championship."

Your knee bounced nervously and your jaw had grown a little sore from stress-munching on a bag of pretzels by the bottom of the last inning. Shuri stood on the pitcher's mound surrounded by her teammates after calling an infield meeting. As they spoke, you could see Shuri's eyebrows furrow slightly, her eyes glancing about the field and taking note of which plays they could complete. Her teammates did the same before, their heads bowing together as they discussed the best course of action. You loved watching them converse on the field, as a team who communicated with each other was a team that won. It also helped to see their smiles as they hyped each other up whenever one needed hyping, and before long, they were bumping gloves with her and running back to their positions.

A tense silence had fallen over the stands, but the home team had no problem breaking it by yelling and hitting the fence in an effort to distract Shuri. It was obvious that she had noticed it, judging by her pursed lips and her narrowed eyes; but it was also obvious that she wouldn't let it bother her. They had gotten too far to be distracted by some yelling.

You found yourself nervously clutching the pretzel bag in your hands as she readied herself for the pitch. Her shoulders rose and fell once, a few seconds passed, and then she was stepping forward and wounding her arm for the pitch.

The ball left her glove at a speed that would result in one missing it should they blink.

The batter swung and missed…but the ball kept going past the back catcher's glove, hurtling into the fence. A series of things happened at once, and if you hadn't been to so many games and gradually learned the rules, you would've been lost as hell. But even with your knowledge of the sport, you still found yourself holding your breath as everything transpired.

The batter dropped her bat and began running to first base while the back catcher turned and lunged for the ball that had gotten past her. You heard multiple yells of 'she's running' before your gaze landed on the runner on third, now sprinting towards an unguarded home plate.

Between one blink and the next, Shuri went from being on the pitcher's mound to right at home plate…but so was the runner.

The catcher turned, throwing the ball to Shuri who then threw herself towards home plate, her eyes set on the runner nearing it. The ball landed in her glove and she turned quickly, touching it against the runner right before her foot landed on the home plate.

It was completely silent as the entire field waited for the ump's call, and you didn't know if you were breathing so quickly that you couldn't feel the breaths or if you had stopped breathing altogether. Your eyes quickly moved between Shuri and the ump, willing him to stop playing games and just call the play-

"Out!"

You heard the single word and saw his hand motion, but it didn't fully register how much weight it held until Shuri jumped up, her mouth instantly opening on a triumphant yell. Her teammates ran from the infield and outfield, gathering around her where she stood on the home plate, all of them embracing and cheering. That's when it registered in your mind.

The Panthers had just won the championship. They had just won the National Championship.

The scream that erupted from your mouth made your ears ring as you stood up, your arms pumping in the air in celebration. Riri's girlfriend, a wonderful woman named Imani, wrapped her arms around you, jumping up and down and yelling directly into your ear…but you didn't care. This was huge.

You didn't care about the few fans yelling at the ump to review his call, and you sure as hell didn't care about the ugly faces being thrown your way and toward the team from the opposing fans. The only thing you could see was a team of champions that had worked their asses off and that had reaped the rewards that came with it.

********

Turns out, the events that happen after a championship are very different from the events that follow just a regular game. And given that this championship was one at a national level, the difference was stark.

They had allowed the team members' friends and loved ones to join them on the field for the medal ceremony after the game, and having been given a lanyard with your pass dangling from it, that included you. The team had stood in a line along the first base line, smiles on every single one of their faces as their names had been called over the speaker along with their number and their position. You had cheered for each player, but as Shuri had stepped forward to receive her medal, you had nearly screamed yourself raw. Your volume had only increased when she had been given the game ball, the same ball she had used to get the last out and win the game.

As soon as the medal ceremony had concluded, she had ran towards you, opening her arms and effortlessly gathering you against her. You had learned a long time ago to ignore the sweat and orange dust sticking to her clothes after each game, so you had eagerly wrapped your arms around her, whispering your congratulations and how proud of her you were into her ear. There were a number of people gathering around her to congratulate her as well, but in that moment, she had only wanted to feel you in her arms.

"T would be so proud of you, babe." At your words, she had only tightened her arms around you, burying her face into your neck. The possibility of the wetness against your neck being tears had been just as probable as it being sweat, but you hadn't called attention to it. Your words rang true, and she knew it.

When she had finally pulled back, her smile as wide as ever, she had leaned forward and captured your lips with hers. She had tasted vaguely of salt and the mint gum she loved to chew during the game. You would have been perfectly content standing there in the middle of the field, kissing her silly and congratulating her in your own way, but she had been pulled away by none other than Riri who yelled an apology and said something about pictures.

You had barely gotten a few minutes with Shuri before the entire team was being pulled away for a 'few photos'.

That had taken almost an hour and a half.

After the photos, while on their way back to the locker room, a few of them had been pulled for interviews, and Shuri, having done the winning play, was among that group.

That had taken another 30 minutes.

You had thought that after the interview the two of you would have had a little time to yourselves away from the photographers and the sports channel anchors, but alas, the next thing you knew, she was being asked to follow a representative from the softball's organization to answer questions about potentially joining another team. Even though both of you knew that she wouldn't leave The Panthers, it was still a proud moment to see other teams chasing after your girl. It had also been incredibly entertaining seeing Coah Okoye glare at the representative as they passed her.

The last time you had seen her, she had been walking out of the locker room with her bag thrown over her shoulder and an apologetic smile on her face. While she had walked towards you, her team had walked the opposite way to where their bus sat. You had perked up, your smile transforming your face into an expression that made Shuri's smile grow.

"Where y'all headed now? Damn, I can barely kiss my girl before they're pulling you away."

She had laughed, taking your words for what they obviously were, a moment of teasing. While you had wanted to see her for the past few hours, you had understood that they were now champions, and the title came with a lot of people wanting their attention for different reasons. Besides, the two of you had a suite where you could give all of your attention to her later.

"I know, I'm sorry. That's actually why I was coming over here...to let you know that we've been invited to a luncheon with the president of the organization, and we're heading over there now. And then we have a conference that's closed to the public...and then we have more pictures to take-"

"So many damn pictures-"

"-I know right? And then we have that dinner later tonight for the whole team and their families."

Out of all the plans she had relayed to you, you had only been aware of the very last one, the dinner. But judging by the look that had been on her face as she had told you, she had been in the same boat. There was no doubt that the entire team had just been told where they were going and what they were doing for the rest of the day, and they had no choice but to go along with it.

That had meant that the guests who were with the team were to be left to their own devices until the dinner, and the thought had made you sigh. But the excitement for the team had still been evident on your face, even when Coach O had hollered for Shuri to 'move her ass'.

"Well...then I guess I'll see you at dinner tonight...where more pictures will be taken."

She had rolled her eyes, pretending that the idea annoyed her, but the smile on her face had told you differently. There had been excitement in it with an abundance of pride, and you were sure that your face had echoed the same sentiments.

That excitement had only grown throughout the day, even without Shuri by your side. In fact, it had only bounced off of you and Imani as the day carried on, the both of you deciding to spend the day together while your girlfriends received the props that they rightly deserved. It was fun, Imani being a person who made you laugh hard and whose personality constantly reminded you why she and Riri were the perfect match for each other. But as the two of you sat at a bar, having finally made it to where dinner would be held, you felt that longing for Shuri growing even while giggling about any and everything that came up. You suspected it was because of the environment around you…and the alcohol, of course.

Dinner would be held at a restaurant called Blue Streak, and it was placed on the Santa Monica Pier. The restaurant itself was nice; minimalistic decor mixed in with that beachy vibe most restaurants on the beach would have. The walls were mostly made of glass so that you could see the ocean, and the bright neon lights from the pier's small amusement park streamed through the windows, making the inside seem more like a nightclub with food than an actual restaurant. The two of you had taken a peek inside once learning that the team would be there and it had only made the two of you more excited to try the food, but you couldn't do so until the team had arrived for their reservation. All it had taken was Imani pointing to the open bar on the outside of the restaurant for you two to find a way to pass the time, and that's where you two had stayed until Riri called her.

"Hey, babe. Are you here yet?"

"Yeah, we just pulled up. Where y'all at- damn, it's a shit ton of people here." The both of you snickered at Riri's words, and when Imani turned the phone to face the both of you, you could see her girlfriend's eyes panning back and forth on the other side of the screen.

"We found a corner of this bar that's pretty empty. It's at the same restaurant we're having dinner at. Come around the side and you'll see us, Ri."

Instead of answering, Riri only pulled her phone closer, her forehead and eyes taking up the entire screen. Imani's eyebrows furrowed at her actions, a soft laugh leaving her mouth.

"Ri...babe...what are you doing? We know you got a big ass forehead, but you don't gotta show it-"

A sharp laugh left your mouth, and at the same time, another familiar laugh came from the speakers. Riri's eyes widened, her mouth dropping as she looked from her girlfriend to the other person who had laughed from beside her. You didn't have to see her to know that it was Shuri who stood out of frame, her laugh being as familiar to your ears as your own name.

"And I was just about to tell Shuri how good the two of you looked, but nah... never mind. You get a drink in you and be talking all types of crazy."

If anything, Riri's words only made the both of you laugh harder. Shuri's laughter also increased but quickly stopped once Riri quickly turned to her out of frame, raising an eyebrow.

"The hell you laughing at Udaku?"

”Yo, don't start that with me. I'm a champion- you can't roast me tonight."

An exasperated scoff left Ri's mouth as she turned the camera so that Shuri was in the frame. The two of them looked at each other, both of them wearing grins that showed the playfulness that constantly existed between the two of them.

"Nigga, I'm a champion too, you're not special."

Before Shuri could respond, Imani spoke up, interrupting a conversation that surely would have become more comical. It was a normal one between the two women- one that you and Imani had both gotten used to breaking up at certain times.

"Aht, aht. Don't y'all start. We're hungry and the alcohol can only do so much, so hurry up and get here."

"We're already here." Instead of Ri's voice coming from the speakers, it came from behind the two of you, prompting you to turn around. You sent a smile Ri's way before turning your gaze to your own girlfriend and the sight of her made you pause.

You had seen her in a few professional settings where she had worn formal clothing...but it was something about her appearance tonight that made your heart skip a beat.

It wasn't just the short-sleeved, black shirt that hugged her torso and her arms, effortlessly showcasing how toned she was from years of sports. It wasn't just the gray slacks that adorned her legs, loose but still fitting her perfectly and secured with a black and gold belt. It wasn't even her gold accessories consisting of a number of rings on her fingers and a single, simple necklace around her neck. Despite how utterly hot her ensemble was, it wasn't what made you pause, your eyes roaming over her entire being.

It was the confidence and professionalism that she exuded as she stopped in front of you. She had always carried an air of confidence in herself, but tonight it was amplified, for obvious reasons.

You had no quarrels with it; it looked good on her. The self-satisfied smirk on her face, the way her shoulders were held back, her chest puffing out just enough to tell you that she knew her own worth, and the way she tilted her head as she, too, looked you over. Her eyes trailed slowly over your being, resting shortly on each aspect of your outfit.

Her eyebrows rose slightly at the black, silk shirt adorning your top half. You left it open, opting to tie the two sides of the shirt into a knot that rested right in the middle of your torso. The look in her eyes had darkened slightly at the sight of your exposed skin, the pier's neon lights smoothly reflecting off of your skin and making it seem more vibrant. The smirk on her face only grew as her eyes trailed down to the straight-legged jeans covering your legs before raising once more to meet yours.

You were suddenly longing for the two of you to leave and head back to the hotel, but the day wasn't over just yet. You'd just have to wait and pinch yourself whenever your thoughts started wandering...which they continued to do as Shuri stepped forward, wrapping an arm around your waist and bending down to brush a kiss against your forehead. You took a breath in an attempt to get your thoughts back on track, remembering that there were two other people with you and an entire crowd around you, only to get a strong whiff of her cologne; you had to bite your tongue to stop the small noise of content from leaving you.

She smelled mostly of lavender and something huskier, but there were hints of manuka oil in the air that she stirred around you. She had taken her cornrows out, her curls now washed and moisturized for everyone to see. They shined in the neon lights, showing just how healthy her hair was and completing her outfit seamlessly.

"How was lunch and the conference?"

She shrugged lightly, nudging your legs apart so she could stand between them. Her hands lowered, resting on your thighs that dangled from the barstool. It sent a jolt through your body, your eyes narrowing in warning at the knowing smile on her face that had slowly started to form.

"Lunch was okay. The food was pretty good. The conference? Well..." She grimaced slightly, her eyes flickering over to Riri who had stepped behind Imani, wrapping her arms around her girlfriend's waist and resting her chin on her shoulder.

At the mention of the conference, her eyes narrowed and her body straightened. The twist of her mouth made it obvious that she was about to say something, and there was a good chance that it would be out of pocket.

Better here than at the conference, right?

"Some people don't need to be reporters or journalists, because some of the questions they were giving us were borderline disrespectful and just straight dumb."

Irritation laced Riri's words, and it also showed up in the way she rolled her eyes, drawing a laugh from Imani's mouth. Your eyebrows raised in surprise as you looked back to Shuri, your hands resting on top of hers.

"You would think that they'd know how to act when interviewing the winning team, but they didn't. There was this one woman who actually asked Aneka -"

"Baby, I think the team is ready. But you can tell us all about it at the table."

Imani's words were soft and reassuring while her gaze was teasing as she looked at you and Shuri. All three of you knew Riri well enough to know that when she got going, it took a while for her to stop. You all had a better chance of getting to the table and having her become distracted than sitting and letting her rant pick up steam at the bar, and you suspected that that knowledge was what prompted Imani to stand and take Riri's hand in hers. She slid off of the stool, alerting the bartender of her continued tab before pulling Riri behind her as she walked towards the main entrance of the restaurant. You heard only a small portion of their conversation as you gathered your things, and it made you laugh, your head shaking at the two of them and how they bickered.

"Come on, I wanna get a good seat by the window."

"The entire restaurant is one giant window, babe, that won't be hard-"

"But the entire restaurant isn't facing the ocean, now is it?"

"Well...it kind of is-"

Their voices joined the countless others on the pier as they walked further away. There was still an amused smile on your face as you turned to Shuri, watching as she stepped back and made room for you to slide off of the stool. The smile turned to a grimace as you lightly questioned her.

"Was the conference really that bad?"

Instead of answering, she simply sighed and shook her head, stepping to the side to approach the bar. You watched, slightly worried, as she proceeded to take a bill from her wallet and place it on the bar, turning to you afterward and offering a hand.

"It was...interesting."

It was both easy and difficult to think about their conference not going well. Easy because experiencing hostility in the sports world was not new for The Panthers, and only someone without common sense would think that it would be magically fixed when they won the championship; if anything, you'd guess that the hostility and criticism would only increase from now. Yet, it was difficult imagining them being questioned unfairly and about the most trivial things when they should've been commended on their work ethic, their skill, and how well they worked together as a team.

You were upset for them, and you didn't know if you looked forward to watching the conference when it was finally released...but you admittedly wanted to know what had gone wrong. But it only took you looking into her eyes to realize that maybe now wasn't the right time. Now was the time for celebration with her teammates for a game that they had worked their asses off to get to.

"Nevermind, let's just enjoy dinner. Apparently, they have this hot-smoked salmon that's popular as hell, and I can't wait to try it- wait, where we goin'?"

Shuri wordlessly led you in the opposite direction of the restaurant, making your eyebrows furrow in confusion and a questioning noise fall from your lips. Your eyes roamed across the crowd, looking for any indication as to what her plans were, but upon finding nothing, you squeezed her hand.

"Shuri, not only is Coach O going to get on your ass, but she's also going to get my ass if you miss dinner. I don't know why she always thinks I'm the bad influence."

The sound of her laughter reached your ears, even over all of the noises of the pier. It did become clearer once she pulled you into the little photo booth she had originally been heading to, quickly pulling you into her lap before making the two of you comfortable and closing the curtain. It was a relief that the booth didn't smell and that it was clean, but you barely paid attention to the state of it; you couldn't- not when her lips were immediately on yours, drawing the air from your lungs while breathing life and a familiar pleasure into your body as a whole.

Her hand raised, cupping the back of your neck to pull you closer in the small space of the booth, her other hand landing on your waist to keep you seated. The surprised sound that left your mouth was immediately swallowed by her, quickly being replaced by a sigh of contentment.

The amount of time you two sat there, hiding in a photobooth and kissing was unknown; you just knew that when you two pulled away, you could positively say that you were dizzy.

"Oh- what was that for?"

Shifting her hand slightly allowed her to gently rub her thumb across your cheek, her eyes bright with adoration and the faintest hint of mischief. Her voice was slightly lower than normal as she spoke, and the sound of it speared straight through you.

"I just missed you. I haven't seen my usana all day, and I just wanted some alone time."

It was endearing, her pulling you into a photo booth and making out with you as if you two were high schoolers. It was also obvious that she needed this. She was good at hiding when she was overwhelmed from her teammates, but not from you. Not to mention that the last time you had seen her, she had sported those strained lines of tiredness around her eyes.

Now? Now she looked up at you with nothing but love and excitement that set your heart racing.

"Ah, got it. Here I thought you actually wanted to take a picture with me." You didn't let her answer before leaning forward, placing a kiss against the underside of her jaw and smiling as her hands lightly squeezed your waist in warning.

"Well, we can still take a picture. But then I was thinking..." You sat back, your eyes meeting hers as her words trailed off. There was the slightest bit of trepidation in her voice as she continued, her hands gently fidgeting with the silk material covering your body.

"Maybe we can get something else and head back to the hotel to just chill for the night? Today was a lot, and, and I'm sorry, but I haven't really had time to just... decompress and breathe without a mic or camera in my face."

As she spoke, the confidence and self-assuredness melted away a bit, revealing the fatigued and slightly overstimulated Shuri beneath. Eyebrows furrowing in worry, you cupped her face gently, running your thumbs across her cheeks. You made sure to meet her eyes when you spoke, wanting her to see and hear just genuine you were with your words.

"Shuri, there is nothing to say sorry about. Of course, we can get something and take it to the hotel- if that's what you want, then we'll do it. You may be a champion, but you're still human. You gotta take care of yourself, first. I'm sure Coach O will understand."

And if she didn't, then you'd gladly talk to her...from the other side of the pier...preferably on the phone. The lady was kind of scary, you could admit that, but you’d do whatever you had to in order to keep Shuri from being chastised for simply taking care of herself.

If possible, the intense look in her eyes deepened as they gazed at you, the corners of her mouth lifting into a blinding smile. This time, when your heart skipped slightly, it was at the fact that you were the one person who could make her smile as brightly. The fact made you giddy, to be completely honest, and that giddiness was apparent in your actions as you quickly reached into your bag.

In the span of a few seconds, you had taken out your card and swiped it. The booth's main menu was prompted, and you quickly picked the standard option, turning slightly to face the camera in front of the booth. The screen displayed the exact picture that would be taken, and a quick glance at it showed that Shuri's eyes were still on you. There was a swarm of butterflies that had been released in your stomach as you smiled, leaning back against her chest and looking into the camera.

"You gotta look in the camera, Shuri."

She reluctantly tore her eyes away from you, turning to face the camera and offering a crooked smile while her hands lowered to land against your thighs. The first picture was taken with a bright flash and a countdown that started immediately after.

You could only think to turn your head with the intention of planting a kiss on her cheek for the next picture; however, as soon as you turned your head, your lips were coming into contact with hers and not her cheek. Your laughter and hers mingled slightly as the camera went off once again, capturing the moment at the perfect time before starting the countdown once more.

This time, you gently grabbed her chin, turning her face to the front where the camera was and taking the chance to place your lips against her cheek, your lips still curled into a smile. Your eyes were shut, but if they had been open, you would've seen the way her smile had grown at your actions. The flash went off before restarting the countdown again.

She managed to turn her face towards you, her eyes flickering down to your lips which were only a few inches from hers. You placed an arm around her shoulders, using your hand to lightly pick out the curls she had. Her eyes were half-lidded while her hands ran smoothly up and down your jean-clad legs, and it made your breath hitch slightly. The camera flashed once more before starting the countdown.

"So what did you want to eat for dinner?" You asked, willing your voice to stay steady and not betray your inner thoughts. You were in public, for heaven's sake; you could wait until you got back to the hotel. It made it harder to do exactly that, though, when she was hellbent on touching every part of you that was socially acceptable in the type of environment you were in.

That plan flew out the window as she leaned forward, kissing your bottom lip and gradually making her way down to the corner of your jaw. It was hard to mask your gasp as a soft laugh, but you managed to do it. The gasp only came back, slightly louder as her fingertips grazed just under the knot of your shirt, ghosting against the valley of your breasts. You took a breath, leaning more into her.

"Shuri, we gotta figure out what we're eating-"

"Do you know how good you look tonight? And the fact that you dressed up for me..."

The temptation to tease her and tell her that you hadn't dressed up for her was right there on the tip of your tongue...but who were you kidding? You had absolutely dressed up for her, knowing that it was a special night and wanting to look good for her. Never mind the fact that she had told you multiple times that you could wear a literal garbage bag and she'd still be just in love with you, but tonight was a night for her and her teammates. It was a night for her.

"You know I had to. Tonight's all about you. At least for the rest of the night it is."

"Good, because I think I finally know what I want for dinner."

"What's that?"

You tilted forward slightly, resting your forehead against hers and humming in question. Her hands continued rubbing against your thighs until they suddenly stopped and squeezed, making your lips part slightly as you jumped. She took the opportunity to fit her lips against yours, instantly sliding her tongue between your lips without any hesitation.

It finally clicked in your mind what she wanted for dinner right as the last camera flash went off.

********

A/N: I hope y’all enjoyed this! We should be getting back to our regularly scheduled program with “Next To Me” by next week, as I’ll be done with finals then! But I hope this can hold y’all over until then! <33

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