#henry cavill fan fiction

[speechlessxx]

new addition. [henry cavill x reader]

summary: anything henry does instantly goes viral.

warnings: mention of fangirls. plot twist?

word count: ~850

It was a poor choice of words on Henry’s behalf – and he knew that.

You knew he knew that.

Ever since you’ve met him, nearly three years ago, you’ve noticed that Henry relished in the chaos he created from just one simple post. Whether it was a clip of him working out or him panting after his jog or even a simple picture of Kal, he sent the internet into a frenzy each time he broke his silence on social media. In fact, you would say he’d get off on it – but of course, he would only respond with a amused smirk and a shake of his head.

And sometimes, just sometimes, he liked to drag you into his mess.

So, when your phone dinged once, then twice, then a million times after one afternoon, you knew Henry had done something yet again.

At first, you ignored the incessant chimes of Instagram and Twitter. The colorful purple and the calm blue icons staring up at you, tauntingly as if saying, “we know something you don’t”. But this wasn’t your first time on the Henry post rollercoaster, and you opted to just turn your phone on Do Not Disturb, silencing the annoying chimes and buzzing.

But only for a few hours … until curiosity got the better of you, and you found yourself exchanging your novel for your cell phone.

You noticed that your accounts had an influx of new followers and posts had more likes and comments than usual. The culprit for this sudden popularity was a single tagged post from your beloved boyfriend.

It was a rather strange occurrence. Henry was keen on keeping your relationship as private as his career would allow. You’ve graced his stories once or twice throughout your two year long relationship, but he had never been so outright and forthcoming on his public feed.

The photograph was nowhere near risqué – which brought a bit or relief to your anxiety. It was a photograph of you curled up on Henry’s bare chest, sleeping your fatigue away. You were covered up enough with the nearly sheer night slip and Henry’s muscled arm wrapped around you. However, it was the caption that caught your eye.

“Our new addition kept her up all night.”

Your jaw dropped and eyes widened as you read that line over and over again. That cheeky little –

There were multiple “congratulations” comments beneath the post, followed by various celebratory emojis. Of course, there was a heavy amount of jealous fans’ inputs, but you considered yourself a veteran at this point – their comments became an inherent risk the moment Henry asked you out on a date.

Speculations, articles, “Baby Cavill” trended worldwide. You couldn’t help but slap a palm onto your forehead before groaning. Despite being frustrated because you were trending for such an obscure reason, you couldn’t help but find the entire situation amusing.

You came out of your shared bedroom just as he was walking into the house. Normally, you would take the time to admire your sculpted-by-the-gods boyfriend – especially after a run or a work out – but today, you wagged a finger in his face.

“You,” you said, in a mock scolding tone, “owe the world an explanation, Mr. Cavill.” Behind Henry padded in Kal, who ran to greet you, nudging your calves with his wet nose. “Your dad has gotten me into big trouble, bear.”

The dog stared up at you with big eyes but you knew that the only thought going through the Akita’s mind was, “treat?”

Henry burst out laughing as he pulled out his phone, undoubtedly reading through the mess he’s created. He seemed almost as elated as he was when he saw the reactions to his PC building video.

“Hennn,” you whined, pouting.

Before your boyfriend could respond, a high pitched bark could be heard as your new puppy ran  towards its family. Energic from his afternoon nap, the little guy jumped and pawed at you, trying to get your attention. He’d occasionally bump into Kal but the older dog didn’t pay him any mind, opting to lay down on the wooden floors, exhausted from his run with his dad.

You bent down to play with the little puppy, cooing at it and handling its tiny paws as Henry recorded.

He’d eventually post the multitude of photos and videos of you and the new puppy with the caption, “Just to clarify, we got a new puppy.” The simple caption would ease the fangirls, but the new puppy news did not stop Baby Cavill from continuing to trend.

Henry loved watching his family grow. The puppy testing Kal’s patience, but Kal proving time and time again that he is a very good boy. And you were an incredible dog mom. Going through the photos on his new post brought a smile to his face as he found himself getting lost in a day dream. He couldn’t wait to introduce an actual little one to the family (though you’d argue that the puppy was indeed your baby).

#henry cavill x reader #henry cavill #henry cavill fan fiction #rpf #real person fiction #speechlessxx

[sillyrabbit81]

Cold

Prompt: Slow & Romantic, Cock Warming from @florxdexcerezo (x) Thank you so much for sending the prompt in. Sorry its taken so long.

Pairing: August Walker x Female Reader

Word Count: Approx. 600

Warnings: Smut, cock warming, p in v sex

Authors Note: I wrote this a few weeks ago, but wasn't feeling up to posting it. I'm still on semi-hiatus, going to be a couple of months more at least, but here is a thingy I did. Hope you like it. Thanks to @nashibirne for reading.

Edited by me, there will be errors

Dividers by me.

Masterlist

Celebration Masterlist

Your eyes fly open. A heady rush of adrenaline pumps through your veins as your hand slips under the pillow on the empty side of the bed and curls around cold steel. You keep your breath slow and even as if you're still asleep and listen carefully.

But you’re too late.

A firm hand covers yours and a heavy, hard body traps you beneath it.

“Don’t scream,” he says, “I didn’t mean to frighten you.”

You loosen your grip on the pistol and allow the hand to take it away. In the dark, you hear the thunk of the gun being placed on the nightstand.

“You could knock,” you point out.

“I didn’t want to wake you.”

“And yet, here we are.”

The weight on top of you shifts and you think you can just make out a small smile on his moustached face. You reach for the lamp, but he stops you.

“Leave it off,” he says.

“August, please,” you whisper. Your hands cover his whiskered cheeks briefly before he shakes you off.

“Leave it.”

He stands. You vaguely see his outline as he removes his clothes. He’s moving stiffly, slowly and breathing in soft grunts and rough exhales.

“How badly are you hurt?” you ask.

“Nothing so bad that a good night's sleep won’t heal,” he says, dismissively. Sometimes it scares you how easily and smoothly he lies to you.

“Then why are you here?” you ask with a rueful laugh. “The last thing you ever do here is sleep.”

You see his shape pause. You stare at where you assume his eyes would be, he needs to know you aren’t stupid; that you know this thing between you won’t result in a ring on your finger or a pretty white dress.

The longer he stands there unmoving, the harder it is to keep looking into the darkness. What is he thinking? You open your mouth to ask, but close it with a small shake of your head. It's not like he’d be honest anyway.

He starts to undress again. You lay back in bed. Does it really matter if he’s here to fuck you or sleep next to you? You’ll give him what he wants, you always do. You can’t help yourself.

He slips into bed, curling himself around your naked form. His hands begin a long exploration along your hip to your ribs and back again while his face is buried into your neck. You can hear him draw rough, ragged breaths, his mouth is so close to your ear, his lips graze along its edge.

Driven by a primal instinct, you arch your back, lean against him and open your legs in an invitation that needs no explanation. He doesn’t hesitate and quickly you feel the smooth, warm head of his cock sliding over your folds, gathering your wetness before sinking deep inside.

By the same instinct, you begin to roll your hips, relishing the feel of his length as your pussy glides over him. But his hand clasps your hip and holds you still, your ass and back pressed firmly against his chest.

“When I’m gone, I dream of this,” August whispers, “of being inside you.”

“Then please move.”

“No,” he growls, “I need to be inside you. All night.”

You moan and he throbs deep within you. His nose presses into your hair, his arms wrap around your chest, holding you tighter and tighter until you think he’ll crush you. 

“You’re so warm,” he whispers as he softens his hold on you. “I need you to keep me warm. I’m so fucking cold without you.”

#rabbitsmilestone23 #henry cavill #henry cavill fanfic #henry cavill fanfiction #henry cavill fan fiction #august walker #august walker fanfiction #august walker fic #mission impossible #mission impossible fallout #august walker x you #august walker fanfic #august walker x reader #august walker x female reader

[fallenangelkitten]

All for You

Synopsis: Henry is always paying attention. How far will he go to make you happy?

Warnings: lots of fluff, some ogling

Note: I love this one, it’s so so cute 🥺

Henry had been in the shower for a while now; it took some time getting all the Geralt makeup off of his body. You were sitting up in bed, getting distracted from the book you were reading. It’s not that you didn’t enjoy the book, your mind was just drifting. You were scrolling on TikTok, laughing and awwing at the occasional animal video.

You could hear Henry’s honeyed hums echoing from the bathroom. Steam seeped into the bedroom through the small crack in the door- he was notorious for not shutting that damn door. A sigh of bliss left your lips, unsure of what you did to deserve him or this life.

After a few moments of not hearing the water running, he stepped out with a towel around his waist. Water still dripped down his oh so toned body. You took a moment to let your eyes drink in the sight, your tongue skimming your bottom lip. You could ever get used to this.

“See something you like, love?” He teased, his infamous smirk plastered across his face. I couldn’t help but roll my eyes. But I knew he was… beautiful. Usually that’s not a word used to describe a male, but no other word would come to your mind. He was simply beautiful.

“Come get into bed, I’ve missed you,” you begged, pulling back the covers and patting his spot. He hung the towel on the back of the door and walked over to you. He almost always slept naked and tonight was no exception.

“What have you been up to, pet?” He asked, stoking the side of your face, bringing you in for a soft kiss. You leaned into his hand, enjoying the warmth it gave on your skin.

“Well, Kal and I played in the gardens for a while. But for most of the day I’ve just been attempting to read,” you explained. He clung to your every word, eyes shifting back and forth between your own and those lips he adored.

“Attempting?” He chucked, brow arched.

“Ugh, you know me! I get distracted. Like, look at this,” you brought out your phone and pulled up tiktok. “I’m just scrolling and I get hit with videos like this all day!” It was a beautiful view of the foggy Scottish countryside. You sighed dramatically, flinging yourself into his arms. “Oh what a beautiful site to see!”

He laughed, and it was music to your ears. “(Y/N), you are the most dramatic piece of work. But I wouldn’t have you any other way.” He pulled you in for another kiss.

———

You woke up to an empty, cold bed. The light shown through the curtains, causing you to squint. You groaned, wanting nothing more than to roll back over and shield your eyes. You heard footsteps approach you, and a warm kiss against your forehead. “Kitten,” he cooed, continuing his kisses against your cheek and across your jaw.

You whimpered, reaching up to grab him and attempt to drag him down to the bed with you. But of course he didn’t even budge, though he complied. Lifting the covers, he scooched in next to you, wrapping you in his arms. He rubbed circles into your arms.

You sighed. “What time is it?”

“Seven forty.”

He knew you weren’t a morning person, but with Henry loving on you, even you couldn’t help but give in. “Why so early?”

“Well, our flight leaves in an hour, so really I was pushing it.” He teased.

You shot out of bed, hair sticking up in all different directions. “Flight?!”

“You wanted to see Scotland, right?”

[ellethespaceunicorn]

Sometimes The Silence Guides A Mind

Title: Sometimes The Silence Guides A Mind

Rating: Explicit, 18+, Minors - DNI

Pairing: Sherlock Holmes x Reader

Fandom: Enola Holmes series

Word Count: 1.7K

Summary: As you were getting close to Sherlock, he stops visiting. You pop over to Baker Street and share an eye-opening moment.

Warnings: age gap(reader is about 20 in this, Sherlock is mid-30s), slight voyeurism, masturbation (male), handjob, unprotected p-in-v sex (wrap it up y’all), creampie

A/N: I’ve been throwing around this idea about Sherlock for quite some time. I hope you enjoy it. Unbeta’d, we die like people who tried their best.

Dividers by: @firefly-graphics

Support/Reblog banner by me

Cover Art by me

My Masterlist 

You’ve been friends with Enola for a short time, only since the beginning of the year. She’s led you on a few fun adventures, but more often than not, she’s led you on wild goose chases. She has helped you come out of your shell and you are grateful for that. On days that you weren’t exploring the countryside or causing a ruckus in the city, you would lounge around her large house. 

Spending time with her in her large house had its benefits. One of which was 6’1 with a head of unruly curls. The famous Sherlock Holmes was your best friend’s big brother. He lived in the city but came to visit Enola every week. 

You always made sure to be available on those days. If only for the chance to say hello to Sherlock. You wanted more but, truth be told, he made you a bit nervous.

You tried your best to keep calm when he would arrive, but Enola noticed your demeanor change every time. She teased you endlessly about your little crush and you would always bring up Tewkesbury. That would usually shut her up.

In truth, she did not care that you liked her brother, she just didn’t want you to waste your time. The man was not exactly sociable unless he found value in the opinions of others. One opinion he respected was that of his sister. You could sit and watch them talk for hours. She would get him to laugh with her jokes, and he would bring her to annoyance with his riddles.

You would interject a thought here and there and when Sherlock would give his attention to you, you froze. Something about the look in his eyes, it was more than attention. It was intense as if the two of you were the only ones in the world let alone the room.

More than once, Enola had cleared her throat loudly to get you and Sherlock’s attention back on her. But sometimes, she would just listen to you ramble on while Sherlock seemed enthralled in your thoughts. You mused about music and how interesting you thought his cases were. The more you spoke with him, the more comfortable you felt around him. 

Sherlock would show up now and then with little trinkets from his cases. At first, it was just things for Enola, but soon he would start bringing you little gifts as well. He started small with a single flower or a tasty treat from his favorite bakery. But soon, his gifts grew oddly specific. He bought you a brooch you had mentioned seeing at a store in the city. He would learn pieces of music from a composer you talked about and play it for you, much to the chagrin of Enola who wasn’t a fan of the violin.

It was when he didn’t visit for two weeks that you started to realize you were developing feelings for the older detective. You’d come to enjoy his presence and not because of his gifts. You just enjoyed seeing his face light up when he saw you. You relished the power you felt when the normally unflappable and distant man would sit enthralled when you gave voice to your thoughts. 

So, why did it stop so suddenly? Had you done something to offend him? 

You wracked your brain and Enola’s brain for that matter. She gave you his address so you could go and talk to him and she could finally be free of your fretting. 

You arrive at 221 Baker Street, your hands trembling as you knock on the main door. A sweet woman opens the door and introduces herself as Ms. Hudson. When you ask to speak to Sherlock, she sends you up the steps to 221B.

As you’re about to knock, a man opens the door and almost collides with you.

“Oh, I’m terribly sorry. May I help you, Miss?” 

“Ehm, I’m here to see Mr. Holmes…but I can come back if that’s–” You are cut off when he speaks again.

“You wouldn’t happen to be friends with Enola, would you?” You nod, giving your name, “Of course, Sherlock mentioned you. I’m Dr. John Watson, and I have to be going but you are more than welcome to come in. Sherlock is just in his room down the hall.” He points around the corner from the door and walks past you before waving goodbye.

So, that’s how you end up in Sherlock’s apartment. It is eerily quiet and you think he might be asleep. That is until you hear soft moans coming from down the hall. Your first thought is it must have been the floorboards creaking under your feet.

What you hear next is the unmistakable sound of your name followed by a whimper. It sounded like Sherlock was calling to you, but how would he know you were here already? You walk down the hallway quietly and see that his bedroom door is slightly ajar.

Peeking in, you are blessed with a sight! Sherlock is laid out on his bed with his shirt and waistcoat open, his hairy chest on full display as it rises and falls quickly. His beautiful face constricted in pain one second, solemn and peaceful in the next. His curls are a sweaty mess on his forehead. One hand is fisting the sheets at his side and the other hand is wrapped around his thick veiny dick. You’re mesmerized watching him stroke himself until you hear him moan your name again.

In a moment of bravery, you step into the room. Your bosom heaves in your bodice as you breathe shallowly, adrenaline coursing through your veins. 

His hand stops its ministrations and he looks to you as you walk towards him. He’s frozen on the spot and can only watch you as you climb atop the bed and lay next to him. You replace his hand with yours and continue to pump his dick. Your hand barely fits around him and you enjoy the feel of his soft uncut length in your hand.

His hands come up to caress your face and pull you down for a kiss. When his tongue begs for entry, you allow it in. Heatedly, you mold your mouth to his, letting your moans and whimpers be consumed by him. Breaking the kiss, he looks into your eyes and you can tell he is close.

You remove your hand from him and stand up from the bed. It is only when you remove your undergarments does Sherlock understand why you stopped. Climbing back on the bed, you settle yourself with your cunt dripping onto him.

“I want you to be certain that you–” You cut him off as you slink down, his velvety smoothness sliding inside your wet heat. You take a moment to get used to the sheer size of him. He stretches you almost painfully. Leaning down, you whisper into his ear.

“Do I seem certain, Mr. Holmes?”

Instead of an answer, Sherlock groans and twitches inside you. His hands travel under your skirt and rest on your hips. You take that as a sign and sit up. With your hands on his chest, you begin to ride him slowly, agonizingly to the point where his hands start to guide you to a quicker pace. 

Using you like a ragdoll, he flips you so he is atop you while you are on your back. He slams into you repeatedly and you are no longer in control. He savors the sounds coming from you as he fucks into you. He urges you on as he kisses and licks and nips at your neck, careful not to leave any marks.

Pulling out, he moves you to your hands and knees before inserting himself again. The angle allows him to go deeper and you thank the Gods for it. As he holds onto you, he hammers into you. The filthy utterances that come from his mouth only serve to solidify the notion that he missed you too.

“I knew you would feel like Heaven, my sweet angel…”

“This pretty pussy belongs to me now…”

“You would look so perfect with my cum dripping out of you…”

“I could fuck you all day and night and still never get enough of you…”

“Be my good angel and come all over my cock,” He reaches down and rubs your clit between two fingers as he plows into you. You never stood a chance, your walls quivering around him within moments, “That’s my good girl. So good…for me. Fuck, so close!”

“Sherlock, please! Need you to fill me with all you have to give!” You surprise yourself and your lover with those words. 

Sherlock’s answering grunts as he makes mincemeat of your pussy are music to your ears. His punishing thrusts falter and he pulls you flush to him. He’s deep enough to kiss your cervix with the tip of his dick. You feel him swell inside you and it’s enough to make you climax again, milking him through his release. 

And the noises he makes when he comes are more intricate than the 24 Caprices. You’re sure that Sherlock would disagree but you don’t even care. You revel in the melody of his moans and surrender to its hold on you.

Sherlock’s hands roam over your back, your hips, your ass, and your thighs. As if he can’t get enough of you. He doesn’t pull out until you wiggle your hips, a sign that your legs are tired. Extricating himself from your sensitive folds allows his spend to escape. He catches what slips free and pushes it all back in before helping you lay down on your front.

He lays down next to you, pulling you close to him with one arm while the other rests behind his head. He looks so peaceful as he closes his eyes and hums. The feminine urge for pillow talk is high, but so is the need to just bask in this moment.

You’re in the arms of the man you care for, who also adores you. You rest your cheek on his shoulder and tangle your fingers in his chest hair. You breathe in his smell, his pheromones are surely on high alert from your activity. When he rests his head against yours, you feel at peace.

You do plan on talking to Sherlock later about everything. But, for now, you can take pleasure in the simplicity of the harmonization of your heartbeats.

A/N: The title of this fic is taken from The Neighborhood’s Sweater Weather. There is an amazing violin version of this song by Joel Sunny. And anything violin makes me think of Sherlock.

A/N: Also, I know Ms. Hudson wasn't featured in Enola Holmes, but I love her as a character and I wanted to use her.

**Tag List**

@brattymum96 @ambinxe @avengersfan25 @kebabgirl67

@astheskycries @enchantedbytomandhenry @rebelangel1102

Let me know if you wanna be added (or removed) 😁

#sherlock holmes henry cavill #sherlock holmes fanfiction #sherlock holmes x reader #sherlock holmes #henry cavill #henry cavill characters #enola holmes fanfiction #enola holmes #enola holmes 2 #henry!holmes x reader #henry!holmes #henry!sherlock #henry cavill sherlock holmes #ellethespaceunicorn fanfic #henry cavill fan fiction #henry cavill fic #henry cavill fanfic #henry cavill fanfiction

[operationcavill]

Didn’t wanna wake you.

The softness you feel when he come to bed after a long day. He sees you wrapped in a blanket. He knows how warm your skin will feel but he doesn’t want to wake you. He takes a shower then slides into bed. Chest to your back, “I fell asleep.”

“Didn’t want to wake you.” You turn to him. Sleep drunk and happy. You put your hand on his chest. He brings it to his face and kisses it.

You wiggle closer and kiss him on the lips to greet him but he’s holding on to you in a way that makes you feel tingly. “Your beard is getting long.”

“You love it” he kisses you again. And again. Then you feel his tongue. It feels like relief. It’s warm and wet. It’s soft but passionate. “Missed you today.” He’ll kiss you very deeply now. “Thought about you all cozied up without me.”

“Yeah?” He rubs your belly. He’s trying to decide if he wants to feel your nipples or how wet you are.

He’s kissing your neck. Hand over your panties. Giving you small pats. “Mhmm. Just missed you.” He shimmies down to your chest. He lifts up your shirt and starts sucking and kissing your nipple. You let out a satisfied giggle but stop as his hand slides in your panties. He moves back to kiss you, “You miss me? Hmm?” You can’t say anything. You feel his nose on yours and you feel short of breathe. “I thought about touching you.” He puts your arms around his neck. He whispers in your ear as he plays with you. Avoiding your clit on purpose. “I love when you’re like this.” He breathes in, “moving against my hand.”

He finally slips his fingers into you. You sigh and he smiles against your neck. You move his head so you can kiss him. Hard. He gladly matches you. His fingers are going so slow. Teasing. He feels powerful. You’re trying to move your hips to get more but he has control. “Henry.”

Music to his ears. It’s almost like a switch. “Yeah, love?” He knows you can’t answer. He know you wanna hear his voice. “You’re such a good girl. You know that?” He takes his fingers out. He puts them in his mouth then focuses on your clit. You gasps and tighten your grip on him. “That’s my girl.” He’s not hiding his smile. “Look at you.” He kisses you hard now.

You can’t concentrate. If your eyes weren’t closed they’d be rolled into the back of your head. Hes in a mood tonight. He wants this to be about you. You have no complaints.

It’s like he can sense when your wanna give in so he stops. His hand is resting on your belly. He kisses you. Then he takes your clothes off. He takes his underwear off. “Touch me.” You grab him and he groans. He’s on top of you now. You’re still stroking him. Rubbing his tip against your clit. “Fuck.”

Finally, you guide him into you. Hisleft forearm balancing beside your head while his left hand explores your face, breast, and hips. The weight of his hips on your thighs and your hands all over his back. He smiles a little bit when you hold on tighter or moan. He loves to hear your heavy breathing. He loves that he can feel your heart pound. He loves when you put your hand on the back of his head and pull him in for a kiss. He feels confident, strong, proud when your turn your head to the side and attempt to bury it in a pillow. “Look at me,” but you can barely keep your eyes open. “Let me see that pretty face.”

His sits himself up on his knees, grabbing your hips and pounds into you, “oh fuck,” he’s biting his bottom lip. His chest hair is all ruffled up and his hair is wild. He’s soaking up all of the ‘oh my gods’ and gibberish.

“That’s it. Let it out. Tell me.” Something domed over you and you pull his by the neck to your face, “don’t stop. Fuck me just like that.” His happy trail is the perfect amount of friction on your clit. His cock his hitting the right spots. And his gorgeous face inches from yours.

He kissed you so rough that it almost hurts but it’s the good kind of hurt. You can feel his belly, chest, thighs, up against you and it’s blissful. It’s hot. It makes you want it harder. “Feel so fuckin good.”

You pull his hair a little and look into his eyes, “fuck me. Fill me up.” You kiss him, “I’m gonna cum.”

That did it. He know once he feels you pulse around him he won’t last. “You want me to feel you up?”

“Mmhm”

“Feel you up with my cum?”

“Yeah.”

You’re out of breathe. It’s happening. Thst wave over your body. “Good girl. Cum all over my cock. Yeah.” Your moan and whimper and he grunts as your finishing but it all still feel so good. “I’m so close. Talk to me, baby.”

You kiss his neck. Nibble his ear. “This is your pussy.”he’s twitching. “You ganna cum?” He’s groaning. “Come in me. Please. Let me feel it”

“Fucking hell.” He’s there. You just have to say the magic words.

“Come for me, baby. Fill me up.” And that’s it. He’s releases and kisses you. He’s still pumping and being greedy. He’s literally milking every second of it.

He rests his head on your chest, “so good.”

*it’s almost 6 am and I had a wonderfully dirty dream about Henry. It’s not well written but jfc.

#henry cavill #text #henry cavill x female reader #henry cavill x you #my posts #henry cavill fan fiction #henry cavill fanfiction #henry cavill fanfic #henry cavill one shot #henry cavill smut

[ohhhhhhenry]

A taste of my new Sherlock Fic...

It wasn’t starting over, you often told yourself. Starting over implied that you were leaving everything behind. This was taking the past and letting it buoy you into the future. 

London was the perfect place to try. No one knew you there, and you had always craved a life without…context. 

You were in the midst of finishing a particularly frustrating chapter when a knock on your door made you jump.  You wanted to ignore it as to not interrupt your flow, but it was persistent. 

 You rose, still half in writing mode, and as you unlocked the door and were greeted by…shoulders. The shoulders spoke.

“Pardon me, I believe this was delivered to my flat by mistake.”

Then you realized the shoulders were attached to a man holding a package.

He handed you an opened parcel from the local bookshop. The Mistaken Manuscript. A crime novel written by T.L. Merriweather. You admired the cover when–

“You are 221A. Please make sure your husband is clearer when relaying his address.”

You shuddered. “Actually that will be quite hard for him seeing as how he’s been dead for five years.”

You shut the door, eager to shake off this interaction and get back to the escape of writing when another knock came. It was him again. You noticed the shoulders were attached to a head titled in a quizzical look. 

“If this isn’t your husband’s book then…it’s yours?”

“That’s right. You must be a detective.”

“Is that supposed to be a joke?”

“It was supposed to be, but no one is laughing so perhaps it isn’t.”

His head titled the other way, his curls bouncing to the other side. 

“That book is quite vulgar for a woman. I’m surprised it’s something you’d enjoy reading.”

You paused. A tiny smile escaped your lips. 

“I wouldn’t know. I never read it. I wrote it.”

His eyes widened as you shut the door on him again, the smile still dancing on your lips.

#henry cavill #henry william dalgliesh cavill #sherlock holmes smut #sherlock fanfic #enola holmes #enola 2 #henry cavill sherlock holmes #sherlock x you #you x sherlock #sherlock fandom #henry cavill sherlock x reader #sherlock holmes enola holmes #sherlock holmes imagine #henry cavill sherlock holmes x reader #henry!sherlock holmes x reader #sherlock holmes x reader #cavill!sherlock x reader #cavill!sherlock imagine #henry cavill fan fiction

[sweetdreamsofgelato]

for the follower ask song would be tupelo honey by dusty springfield fluffy slightly smutty. right now in real life i need a hug. a long hug. but thank you ahead of time for whatever happens.

Fluff Fluff Fluff with shadowy allusions to smut. My big bear internet hug to you, darling. Thank you so much for always being so supportive and encouraging. I truly appreciate it.

Pairing: Henry x Reader (You)

Rating: E for Everyone

Word Count: 975

Warnings/Content: RPF

You closed the front door and immediately sagged back against it. The sigh you expelled was so heavy that you wondered if it took your soul with it. Exhaustion was a perpetual state of being and you wondered how much more you could survive before your body and mind finally gave up the ghost and checked out completely.

Pinching your eyes shut, you crumpled to the floor. Your belongings fell in heaps around you in the entryway as you drew your knees up and rested your forehead against them. No will to move. May even camp out here for the night.

“Tough day?”

You glanced up, blinking blearily through stress and fatigue to find Henry kneeling before you. You were so out of it that you’d not heard him approach. His brow knitted with concern as he leaned forward and cradled your head in his hand. His thumb ran soothingly over your cheek. 

“Tough day. Month, year. Entire existence…” you murmured as you leaned into his touch. You rubbed at your eyes to release the steadily growing pressure. “Can’t seem to catch a break.”

Henry gingerly removed each of your shoes and set them aside. His strong fingers slowly kneaded up your calves and you groaned as the tightly-knotted tension began to unfurl at his touch. 

You cast him an apologetic look. “Sorry, I know we planned to go out tonight but I don’t think I’ve got it in me.”

He patted your knees lightly before untangling you from your bags and coat. “A night in sounds perfect to me. Want some tea?”

“Tea would be lovely.

“Consider it done,” Henry answered. He chuckled at your squeal of surprise when he scooped you into his arms and lifted you from the floor. 

“Henry, you don’t need to carry me,” you half-heartedly admonished. It felt good to be in his arms. “I can manage to the living room at least.”

“I disagree. I absolutely need to carry you.” Henry squeezed you tighter against the broad line of his chest on the way to the living room, and you couldn’t resist snuggling against his warmth. The familiar, woodsy scent of his cologne was profoundly comforting. 

“And maybe I just want an excuse to fondle you.” His hand not-so-subtly sneaked up your thigh under the guise of adjusting his grip.

Your lips ticked into a smirk. “As if you need one.”

“True, I don’t,” he answered smugly. 

Henry dropped a quick peck on your cheek as he deposited you on the sofa. He dimmed the lights, fluffed a couple of cushions and tucked them behind you, then leaned in and kissed you chastely on the mouth. After putting your favourite playlist on the speakers, he disappeared into the kitchen. 

Before you had a chance to settle, Henry quickly reappeared, his jaw set firmly with determination as he strode purposefully toward the sofa. He slowly leaned down over you, his gaze dark and hot on yours as he grasped your chin firmly in his hand and kissed you with an intensity that lit your nerves on fire.

The kettle whistled and Henry growled his disapproval. With one last parting drag of his lips on yours, he disappeared again.

You bonelessly collapsed against the pillows with a dreamy, contented sigh. No lie, it felt good to be fussed over. And lusted after, even if you didn’t have the energy to capitalise on it at present.

Henry returned with tea in your favourite mug which you accepted with much gratitude. It diffused a soothing warmth through your limbs as you held it. You took a restorative sip and sighed happily. “Perfect.”

Henry graced you with a self-satisfied smile before snagging his phone and departing on stern instructions for you to sit back and relax whilst he ordered delivery. Not one to argue, you curled into the cushions and sipped, your mind drifting along with the music all the while. It was the most relaxed you’d felt in ages and just what you needed. The playlist shuffled and the smooth rhythm of Dusty Springfield’s Tupelo Honey floated through the air. A personal favourite. You set your tea aside and got lost in the music. “Dinner’s ordered. How’re you feeling?”

You opened your eyes and found Henry leaning against the doorway into the kitchen. He watched you with a boyish love-struck grin and your heart did a funny flip. All this time together and he still managed to make you feel the butterflies usually reserved for new love.

A flush heated your cheeks. “Much improved, thank you.”

“Excellent.”

Henry swiftly crossed the room. You made a startled squeak when he snagged your hand and gently tugged you to your feet. He snaked an arm around your waist, tucked your entwined hands snuggly against his chest and began idly swaying you both with the music.

You couldn’t resist melting into his embrace as you danced. Henry led you in slow, measured circles; the deep melodic rumble of his hums filled your ears and everything became intensely tactile: the soft brush of his cotton shirt on your skin, the steadying heat he radiated into your bones, the squish of the carpet between your toes as you moved along. It was a kind of grounding that really fuelled your soul. 

“Ready?”

“Ready for wha—” There was a contented sleepiness to your voice, but you didn’t get to finish your question before he encouraged you into a spin. And then another, and another, not drawing you back to him until you were breathless and alight with joy.  

“How is it you always know just what I need?" You beamed up at him. “You’re the absolute best.”

Henry kissed you tenderly before tucking your head under his chin. “Only because you love me.”

🎊FOLLOWER MILESTONE CELEBRATION🎊

FEEL FREE TO SEND ME A FAVOURITE SONG OR LYRIC AND I WILL WRITE YOU A DRABBLE/ONE SHOT FOR HENRY OR ANY OF HIS CHARACTERS BASED ON IT!

🍦CHOOSE YOUR PAIRING

🍦 CAN BE FLUFFY, SMUTTY, ANGSTY, OR ANY COMBINATION THEREOF. PLEASE INCLUDE ANY DETAILS YOU WANT TO BE INCLUDED WITH YOUR ASK.

I’m keeping this open all week so if you have a request, don’t be shy! Thank you all for celebrating with me ❤️

#Henry Cavill #henry cavill fan fiction #henry cavill x reader #henry cavill x you #rpf #henry cavill fluff #henry cavill rpf #fic: follower milestone celebration #sweetdreamsofgelato writes

[cardierreh15]

When Love Finds a way

I do not give anyone permission to copy or repost my work.

Warnings 18+: Blood , Nudity (Yes, Naked Henry) , Death .

Pairings: Henry Cavill(Drake/Dracula) x Mia/Misty(Black!plus size female)

Description: Dracula & Misty run into one another at the local coffee shop. Could it be… destiny?

Song: No Sunshine by Bill Withers , lovely (instrumental) by Billie Eilish & Khalid .

Word count: 3.6K

(Anything in italics are lyrics. Anything Bold & italics are Dracula’s thoughts)

Two

Aint no sunshine when she's gone. It's not warm when she's away. Ain't no sunshine when she's gone; she's always gone too long, anytime, she goes away.

The thunder roared outside, rattling the skylights and window patio doors. The sound didn’t take him out of his trance though.

Drake had a wooden brush clenched between his teeth as his left hand fingered and teased the paint, and used his right hand to push strokes across the canvas with his brush.

He pulled the brush from between his teeth and dipped it in the white to emphasize the glare in the honey brown. He then stood up from the wooden stool, hovering over his work of art.

Drake was adorned with splattered and smeared paint. He had a chiseled, godly frame. Muscular back, broad shoulders, big arms, tight abdomen and chest that donned thick curly hairs. He himself looked like a masterpiece.

So detailed down to the tiny patterns in her beautiful hazel irises; were the eyes of his beloved, Mia.

The lightning from outside brightened up the room around them, revealing over more than a dozen portraits of Mia. Most of them consisted of her in the color yellow or pink.

Others were just her body parts. Her lips, her naked waist and hips, her naked back with her shoulders and untamed curls cascading down her back. His personal favorite, her fingers interlocking with his; differentiating the sizes of their palms.

‘My dear Mia. Oh you’d be disappointed with how I use my time.’ He chuckled aloud as he wiped his cheek with the back of his wrist, smearing paint against his cheekbone.

And then he found himself staring into the large lively eyes he’d created. Getting lost in them as if she were still physically here.

***

Only darkness everyday, ain’t no sunshine when she’s gone. This house just ain’t no home, anytime she goes away.

He walked as his nose flared; chin trembling as he held his deceased love in his arms tightly. Her blood stained his white blouse. What use to run and pump warmth and life into her, ran cold and endless. His hands, forearms and his cheeks were covered in it.

The scent of her used to bring him a joy like no other, and now, seeing her defiled like this. Knowing the reason why her precious soul was taken, it sickened him.

He walked until he stopped at the entrance of a village. Hesitantly, he looked down at her before looking back ahead of him. ‘Help! Someone help! Someone help please!’ He screamed, and begged. His eyes searched for anyone that could help; some folk came peeking out of their doors, but only a few had the guts to rush over towards the mysterious man. Drake dropped weakly to his knees, but he never let go of his love.

‘What’s happened?!’ One of the onlookers came running over, seemingly looking to help at first.

‘S-she’s been stabbed…’ Drake stuttered, still not able to make sense of what’s happening, he looked up at the stranger before him. He was a short, bald, heavy set older man; he had to be the leader around here.

He was startled by Drake’s bright red eyes and took a step back. “Devil!” The man cried frighteningly, his eyes wide as saucers, a sharp pain shot through the man's heart. He clutched his chest. Others started to murmur, the men in the town pushed their children and wives back into the house as they found pointed objects.

Drake sighed heavily, jaws clinched in agitation; he inhaled deeply trying his best to calm his rage. ‘Listen, I mean no harm, ok? My wife— they killed my wife. Burned down my home. Killed my stock and cattle. I just need… I need some help… just to clean my wife and get her buried…’

“Begawn demon!” One man shouted with a large pickaxe in his hands, another man stepped forward, a cold stare in his eyes.

“We’re good Christian you heathen, if that woman was with you, we’ll then she’s better off dead. Maybe God will forgive her.” The man shook his head, his fingers wrapped around his weapon tightly, these people were surely blinded by their belief in God to think they could take on someone of Drake’s nature. He couldn’t believe the words that just came from this imbecile’s crusty lips.

“Are you ‘too good Christian’ to help your own?! How dare you, hypocrites.” He hissed, bright crimson blood pooled at his eyes, and only a single tear fell down his pale skin. ‘She believed in your God!’ He exclaimed with so much venom behind the word, ‘The same God whose brought you nothing but pain, death, illness and sorrow! Yet, she still believed in him! Just like the rest of you! Was she not good?!’

The crowd grew quiet. Only the sounds of the night could be heard around he and the crowd that surrounded him defensively. Bullfrogs croaked, Crickets chirped and beetles flapped their heavy wings.

As soon as Drake felt he was about to lose hope and his cool, someone spoke up in the crowd, ‘And what do we get if we aid you?!’

He searched the crowd as a woman walked forward. She had black thick and curly hair, her skin was brown and rich like the Earth’s soil. She wore trousers and a slightly stretched out blouse. It appeared to be somewhat of an off duty knight. Her clothes weren’t as damaged and raggedy as everyone else’s.

‘I-‘ he pressed his lips together. ‘Whatever it is that you want. I have no use of any more of my riches… I don’t plan on living on without her.’ Drake looked down at Mia once more. He wasn’t sure how many more tears he could shed. But he wasn’t ready to stop either.

‘Hmph… you’d save me the time then… c’mon now then.’ The pretty woman turned on the toes of her boots and walked back through the crowd; shoving people out of the way. Get out my way! What you lookin’ at?!

Drake felt his slow beating heart stiffen almost in his chest. He was relieved that someone was willing to help. So he stood up to his feet, adjusting Mia in his arms.

***

Drake placed Mia’s lifeless body on the cot. He knew this was probably the last time he’d see her. So he stared at her for as long as he possibly could. He had to take in every feature, knowing that it would be his last

The woman folded her arms across her chest, her head falling to the side.

‘What happened?’

He sat there for a moment before blinking away and looking over at the woman behind him. He felt his chest twist, tears filled his eyes once again before he just let out a shuddered sigh. ‘The Church… found out my hide away. Th-they said she’d been followed. She’d come to see me in the morning. We’d spend the day together,’ he scoffed and swallowed his sticky saliva before continuing. ‘She was the only reason I ever became a morning person… I’d risk burning myself countless times just to be with her and th—‘ his voice was strained; drowned in own tears and despair.

And when Drake had enough strength to speak, darkness reflected in his words as if they looked into a mirror, ‘They took her. from. me!’

The woman watched in silence, studying the picture before her. ‘How long have you and her been—together?’ She asked.

‘A little over a year and a half… she was the reason why I never went back into hunting and killing,’ he looked back at her. His eyes were so sad and lifeless. It almost seem unreal, like sad painting. ‘Because of her, I cherished human life. I saw the potential in your lives. So I went without drinking human blood for that duration.’

Her eyebrows tugged into one, ‘If you weren’t drinking humans then what—‘

‘Animals… particularly moose. Boar. Sometimes bear— anything I could get my hands on really.’

‘M-my God…’ The woman was in disbelief! Could he have been that in love to completely risk his livelihood?

Everyone deserved to love, and perhaps if you are capable of loving, you’re capable of changing. She thought to herself.

‘And so they call…’ he scoffed, his head falling forward; shaking side to side.

‘I don’t think you’re the vampire they are after!’ Drake didn’t say anything, he didn’t much care. Instead, he just grabbed Mia’s hand and placed his cold lips against her cold flesh. He’d just hoped for a small sign of life from her. But he was disappointed once more when reality set in by the second.

The sound of her heeled boots quickly clicked across the wooden floor. ‘Look. I ain’t too keen with working with your kind,’ she said with a slight bitterness, ‘But if I were in your position… I’d do whatever it is that I needed to be done so that my partner gets the justice they deserve…’

Dracula looked up at her with wet eyes. He knew what her suggestion was.

‘That’s just me though…’ she threw up her hands In defense.

He stood to his feet slowly, his thick brows tugging into one,‘Are you suggesting—‘

‘THAT’S… just me now…’ she took a step closer to him, low enough for him to hear, ‘Do what you must. Besides, these folk could use some protectin’ roun’ here,’ She looked over at his wife for a second, ‘She shall be in tip top shape upon your return. And when you get back… we can perhaps discuss a partnership.’ She then stepped back and jerked her head towards the door. ‘Gone head nah. Before I change my mind!’

Dracula gave the woman a gentle nod before turning back to his love, ‘She’ll— she’ll take care of you— my love.’ He then placed his bloodied hand on top of hers.

His chin trembled as he stared at his wife’s corpse. Even in death, she was breathtaking.

‘I’m sorry… I’m so sorry Mia. I’m sorry I couldn’t protect you. I’m sorry I couldn’t give you what you wanted.’ He sniffed, wiping his tears before letting out a shaky sigh, ‘I love you… And I’m gonna make this right.’

Dracula pushed her hair behind her ear. ‘Until we meet again my love…’

He looked back over at the woman, darkness clouding his eyes, ‘How far is the Church’s village?’

‘On horseback? About a day’s ride… the sun could be quite dangerous for someone like you.’

Drake pressed his lips together, knowing what he’d have to do to get there faster. ‘Indeed… I must leave,’ he walked towards the wooden door.

‘I never caught your name. I-I want to thank you.’

The woman placed her hands on her widened hips and a smirk curled on her lips, ‘No need to thank me,’ she said raising her hand in protest, ‘Make it back alive and I’ll tell you everything.’

***

A loud thunder clap shook him out of his own head. A smirk curled on his lips slowly, ‘I know… I’m goin’, I’m goin’… I just wanted to take the time to admire you for a bit longer…’

A soft low thunder rumbled, causing his apartment to shake a little.

‘I miss you too…’ he sighed softly.

Shortly after, he gathered his brushes and carried them to the sink and washed them carefully. Afterwards, he set them on a towel to dry.

Before leaving his “showcase” room, he took one more good look at her, ‘Good Night Mia. I love you.’ And he shut the door behind him.

***

Drake stood beneath the hot shower; allowing the water to beat down on his head and the rest of his messy body. He loved these kinds of nights. Since his body didn’t generate it’s own sweat or neither did he get funky, he’d somehow subconsciously yet— perhaps on purpose, smear himself up in paint so he could shower. It was the only thing that reminded him of her. The warmth of her pretty brown skin and how she’d hold him close.

Otherwise, he truly had no other excuse to be in the shower.

Lifting his head up, he ran his fingers through his hair; pushing it back out of his face. He then reached over for his washcloth, and liquid soap. Once he lathered it up, he rubbed those smooth suds into his skin and scrubbed off whatever paint that was left on his body.

Afterwards, he sat in the shower until the water ran cold. He got out and got dressed in something modest and simple. It was still raining outside, and he would’ve hated for his suits to have gotten wet.

He’d dressed in a cotton light gray long sleeved shirt. It had 3 buttons at the chest. He left only one open. Then, he pulled on some briefs and some dark denim jeans and some brown boots.

Drake dried his thick black hair with a towel and then blow dried it. His locks fell wavy and soft against his head.

Once he was done getting dressed, he grabbed his sketchbook, his wallet and keys. Then, he left.

This was the only time Dracula really enjoyed the outdoors in the daytime. The sky had to be dark with clouds and/or pouring down raining. He could smell and feel how refreshed Mother Earth felt when it did. As if the rain was cleansing everything around him.

He also found it funny when unprepared humans would just cover their heads with newspapers or their hands trying to get to cover. Such clumsy creatures.

Closing down his umbrella, he walked inside of a coffee shop. The smell of freshly brewed coffee made love to his senses and caused a slight drool to pool in his mouth.

Coffee was Dracula’s guilty pleasure. Human food was disgusting. Anything processed, would taste as if he were biting into the metal or plastic that kept them fresh. Or, he’d taste the hormones and the particles. If he had to eat human food just to blend in, he’d simply throw it up later. But coffee, he liked his Americano. No sugar. No cream. Just— beans and hot water.

The baristas shouted, desynchronized “Heeey!” “Drake!” “Yooo!”

They were all very happy to see him. After all, it had been quite some time since he’d been down here.

A toothy grin curled on his lips as he placed his wet umbrella up against his booth and placed his book down on the table. ‘Shannon, Luis, Jang. How are all of you?’ Then he walked up to the counter.

‘We’re holding up… we’ve missed ya down here. We were starting to think you moved away or sumn!’ Jang said with a slight smirk.

‘Yeah! Shannon was starting to get sad!’ Laughed Luis.

‘Hey!’ Shannon laughed and smacked Luis on the arm, ‘You’re gonna get enough of telling my business! How are you, D?’

Dracula had been coming to the local coffee shop for about 10 years now. Way before his friend’s arrival. The owners, Lee and Jennifer, had always been kind to him and welcoming. Introducing him to their own families and friends. Having him over for dinner some nights.

Until one night they’d suffered greatly when half of the shop burned down. Drake had heard about this terrible incident and had written them an anonymous check for $40K for repairs. Til this day, the couple hadn’t had a single clue who’d gifted them with something so life changing. And it were to stay that way.

‘I thought I asked you to call me Drake?’ He smirked, pulling out his wallet.

‘I know. But I think D fits you best,’ the woman giggled, ‘The Usual today?’

‘Mmhmm,’ he nodded before placing the $20 bill in her hand. ‘Could you bring it to my booth?’

‘Sure. Anything for my—‘ Shannon paused for a second, getting lost in those bright crimson eyes. Sure she had a crush before, but it had only gotten extreme. ‘Main. Man.’ And a slow smile curled on her lips.

Dracula returned the smile and nodded once, ‘Thank you, Shan.’ And he turned away to walk to his booth.

As soon as he sat down, he opened up his book full of sketches. Some pages were of flowers, mountains and rivers, oceans and the sky. But others were of people he’d come across in his life. But mostly, Mia.

Strangely enough though, he didn’t feel like drawing her today. Technically.

He’d quickly got started on a face. Allowing just his hand and mind to come together; not really thinking.

‘One Americano.’ Shannon said softly with a smile, placing the large mug down on the porcelain dessert plate. ‘Thank you, Shannon. It smells delightful.’ He smiled looking up at her.

‘Anytime.’ She sighed softly before pulling her eyes away to look at his sketch. ‘What ya workin’ on?’

Dracula looked back down at the large sheet of paper. In just a minute’s time he’d already drawn and detailed an eye and a nose. ‘Nothing special just— sketching.’

‘Nice! You’re really talented!’ Shannon jumped when the bell chimed over the door.

He instantly went stiff at her scent. ‘Misty! Hi, welcome back!’ Shannon greeted her with a smile, ‘I have to get back to work. Have fun.’ She said, placing her dainty hand on his shoulder and gave it a gentle squeeze.

Drake inhaled deeply, as her heart beat seem to thud louder and louder in his ears. The smell of flowers just kept tickling at his nose. It was intoxicating! He was drawing but he couldn’t focus! All that he could see embedded in his brain was her gorgeous smile, her big, thick curly hair, her hazel eyes.

This is probably the closest he’s ever been to drowning. All until,

‘Drake?’

‘Huh?’ He lifted his head quickly.

She was standing there with a sweet yet, puzzled look on her face. Oh she was to die for.

‘I didn’t know you came to this coffee shop!’

‘Misty! Hi! Oh, yeah—‘ he chuckled as his eyes roamed over her body once. The perfect frame. Voluptuous breasts, a tummy, wide hips and thick thighs. ‘I-I know the owners. Been coming here for a few years now.’

‘That’s cool! Hey, do you mind if I join you? I just have a few more minutes to kill before I have to head back to work.’

Of course I mind. You’re only the love of my life’s doppelgänger! I don’t even know what to say or do right now.

‘No, please!’ Lying bastard.

Misty sat down in front of him with a gentle smile on her lips. She watched him take a sip of his coffee first before he went back to sketching upon the white sheet. ‘You draw too? What are you working on?’ She asked before sipping out of her straw.

Drake swallowed his spit as he scribbled, ‘Just some random… portrait.’

‘Hmm! It’s pretty. You take commissions?’

‘Commissions?’ He asked a bit confused, ‘Like pay? No. I do this for fun.’

Misty smirked, adjusting herself in her seat before folding her arms on top of the wooden table, ‘So, if I asked you to do one for me… you’d do it?’

Dracula looked up at her, sizing her face before his eyes dropped to her neck, then her chest. Then, he looked back up into her eyes, ‘If you’d ask me…’

She just stared at him and he just stared at her. Misty finally looked away with a giggle, ‘I-I couldn’t ask that of you. Supplies are getting more and more expensive by the day and art takes time and patience. I couldn’t do that. I’d have to pay you—‘

‘I wouldn’t have it…’ he interrupted. ‘I have enough…’ he paused for a second, ‘I don’t mind.’

She raised a brow, sitting back into her seat. ‘You are stubborn… well at least let me take you out? What are you doing tomorrow afternoon?’ She asked with a smile.

He chuckled as he continued to sketch, ‘You’re asking a complete stranger out on a date? I could be a murderer.’

‘Yeah, you could be. But how would I know if I don’t try?’

You’re just like her… in so many ways.

Drake shook his head as his smirk remained on his face, ‘I work… I’m free after 7pm.’

‘Hmm.. alright. Well, do you have a phone? So I can plug my number in?’

A phone. Dracula was never the type to keep friends so he never thought getting a phone was a logical investment for him. ‘I don’t.’

‘No phone? In the 21st century? Well, I’d say you like to live your life on the edge! What if you were to ever be in danger?!’ She sounded concerned.

Danger? Ha, oh darling, I am the danger.

Drake chuckled and shrugged, ‘Then if it’s my time to go.. it’s my time to go. We didn’t—‘ he bit his tongue and stopped once again. He was getting way too comfortable. ‘I don’t need one.’

Misty took a sip of her ice coffee and shook her head, ‘Well, Mr. “I’m too righteous” for a phone. You should invest in one.’

‘Why?’

‘Cause how would I call you?’

Damn… she’s smooth.

Drake pressed his lips together. He swallowed his spit, feeling as if there was a UV light burning in the pit of his stomach. She had no idea of the chokehold she had on him at this moment. ‘I’ll think about it.’ He said before going back to his sketch.

‘Alright. Well, just,’ she stood up from her seat and picked up her drink, ‘Meet me back here tomorrow evening. 7:45pm.’

He looked up at her as a slow smile curled on his lips, ‘Sure.’

‘I gotta head back now. See you then.’ She said before walking towards the door.

‘Yeah,’ he said before she walked out of the door. ‘See ya.’

Turning back to his sketch before his, he hadn’t even realized he had already worked on her full lips.

‘Dammit.’ He’d cursed.

#henry cavill #august walker #henry cavill x black reader #henry cavill fanfic #henry cavill x black!plus size female oc #henry cavill x black!plus size oc #henry cavill x black!oc #henry cavill x black!reader #henry cavill fanfiction #vampire!sherlock #vampire!henry cavill #vampire!august #vampire #vampire lore #vampirism #henry cavill fan fiction #henry cavill fan fic

[rmtndew]

The Beauty of Thorns

(A ‘Beauty and The Beast’ AU)

Part 1

Summary: Belle lives in a cursed village and those who live there are forbidden to leave. Every year a Drawing is held and a man is chosen to be a sacrifice for the Beast. It’s the only life Belle has ever known but as her friendship with August Walker begins to bloom, she realizes that the Beast can be cruel and that life is far from predictable. 

Pairings: August Walker X Belle

Warnings: Mentions of blood, curses, sacrifices. It’s not gory but very in line with darker fairytales. 

Word count: 4,200+

Part 2

A/N: This was inspired by a post @littlefreya​ shared several months back about the Beast and Gaston and a conversation ensuing from it. She encouraged me to try my hand at writing this AU, so thank you Freya!  Also, this had started out following the Disney version a lot closer but I couldn’t quite get it going, so I had to pivot and I hope y’all like how it turned out. It’s a little different than my beloved cartoon but it felt like it needed another path. 

I pulled at the collar of my dress, fiddling with it as it felt like it was constricting me, making it hard to breathe. Mother kept trying to get me to put my hands down and stop making a spectacle but I couldn’t help it. I understood why I had to wear that dress; it was plain and dark and somber. It was respectful, or at least as respectful as a piece of clothing can be, and what was taking place that evening was due all respect. It was time for our town’s annual Drawing. 

As the door opened at the back of the town hall, I folded my hands in my lap, willing my irritation away as I watched the town elders - including Father - emerge first. Following them were the five men whose names were in the Drawing that year. I knew them all but couldn’t allow myself to feel any type of sorrow at seeing them there. Not until the last one emerged and I saw that it was August Walker. 

He and I had never been particularly close. I feared he looked at me as some scrapy young girl who spent half her life with her nose in a book and the other half like a wildling up in trees or scuffling with the boys in the village. At least that’s what I was like when he returned from war. I’d grown since then into more of a woman than a savage child but I could never forget the day August had returned back to the town: 

One of the boys had snatched my book from me and destroyed it. In a fit of rage, I tackled him into the mud, clawing and biting at him. August saw the commotion and intervened, pulling me off the boy with ease. He gave the boys a thorough tongue lashing before taking me home. Mother and Father were unhappy that I’d gotten into yet another fight but August took my side. The next day he returned with a new copy of the book that the boys had ruined. He’d made a point to look after me since then.  

His name wasn’t supposed to be in the Drawing. It was Moses Young’s turn. But he’d become a father to a sweet girl three months earlier and lost his dear wife during the birth. It didn’t have to be announced but everyone could see why August had taken his place instead. My sister, Marybeth, gasped at the sight of him. I saw Mother take her hand, trying to calm her. Marybeth, like all of the other women in town, was in love with August in some small way. They all talked about how handsome he was, constantly fawning over him, but they never seemed to see beyond that. 

The men stood with Father and the other elders. They looked scared or worried. But not August. Maybe he was scared, I knew I would be if I was up there, but he didn’t let it show. The elders took their places at the front of the hall and Elder Green, our town’s leader, went over the town’s history and why we had the Drawing. 

During the founding, an elder turned away a beggar woman asking him for shelter. After his denial, a young woman came and asked the same request of him. Taken by her beauty, he invited her in. The next morning, the woman was gone, along with the elder’s only child - a son. The townspeople searched for the boy in the forest and found a house hidden in its depths. Inside was the beggar woman. 

She told the elder that since he had been cruel, she had taken something precious from him. When the elder tried to approach, demanding for her to return his son, a great beast appeared beside her. She told the elder that because of his actions, his son was to be sacrificed to the Beast. To save him, the elder could offer himself up as a sacrifice instead. He refused. The beggar woman was furious that he would forsake his own child. 

But a young man that was part of the search offered himself up in exchange for the boy. The beggar woman was touched by the young man’s willingness and took pity on him. She told him that for his bravery, he and the future generations of his family would be spared, while the others would be cursed. 

The beggar woman, revealing herself to be an enchantress, cast a spell over the forest. It came alive, sending vines and thorns to ensnare the men, dragging them from the house back into the forest. The thorns drew blood and when it soaked into the forest floor, the enchantress told them that their lineage would be cursed along with them. No one of their bloodline would be able to enter the forest nor leave the town. 

When the men were released from the thorns, they saw that the elder was gone and in his place was his son. The enchantress told them that to pay for their wickedness, they would have to give up a man each year as a sacrifice to the Beast. If one was not offered, the Beast would be sent into the town to take any man that belonged to the cursed bloodlines. 

But the men forgot their promise to the enchantress and the following year, they offered no sacrifice. That night, the Beast ran wild through the town, taking five of the elders as payment for the broken treaty. From that day forward, the town repented and created the Drawing. Five men - representing the five elders that had been taken - were to be presented and one name was to be drawn. The chosen one would be offered up to the Beast as a sacrifice. 

When Elder Green finished presenting the town’s history, the Drawing began. The names of the men had all been put into a box. Elder Green came forward and the entire room fell silent as he reached his hand into the box. I could hear Marybeth uttering prayers and knew she was hoping that August wouldn’t be chosen. 

I held my breath as Elder Green pulled a paper from the box and unfolded it. His eyes studied the name for a moment before he announced, “George Burns, you have been chosen.” 

The wailing that came from George’s mother sent shivers down my spine. I couldn’t fathom that kind of anguish. I watched Father come forward, bringing the white cloth he was holding to George. Father unfolded it, revealing a single red rose, and held it out, presenting it to him. I could see George’s hesitation. He didn’t want to accept his fate and I didn’t blame him one whit. He visibly began to shake and turn pale. But finally, he stretched out his hand and pricked his finger on a thorn, drawing blood. Once the blood was drawn, the sacrifice was set. There was no going back.

The next day, Mother called me down to the kitchen. 

“Belle, I need you to deliver this,” she said, handing me a basket. It held bread and cheese, a cake and a bottle of wine. I knew it was for one of the men who had participated in the Drawing the evening before and hadn’t been chosen. Though a small gift, the Elders tried to show their gratitude to the men who had been a part of it. 

“Who am I delivering it to?” I asked.

“August Walker.”

I did as Mother asked and took the basket down to August’s house. When I arrived, I raised my hand to knock at the door but before I could, he pulled it open. I was startled and took a step back. August was a big man, looming over me in the doorway. 

“To what do I owe this pleasure, Belle?” he asked. 

I held out the basket. “Father and Mother wanted to give this to you as a thank you for your participation last night.” 

He looked down at the basket but didn’t take it. Instead, he glanced back at me and gave me something bordering a smile. “Why don’t you come in and share it with me?” 

I shook my head. “I couldn’t…”

“Why not?” 

Truly, looking at him I couldn’t think of a reason why I couldn’t. Marybeth was in love with him but so was every other woman in the town. But I had no feelings towards August and I knew he had no romantic intentions towards me so what would it hurt to keep him company? Especially with someone who had volunteered to be in the Drawing as he had so bravely done. 

“Perhaps I could stay for a little bit,” I conceded. 

He smiled then and stepped back, inviting me into his home. He led me to his kitchen before taking the basket from me, then pulled out a chair for me to sit on. He took the cake and wine and placed them both on the table, putting the rest of the basket aside. I watched as he took the bottle and brought it to his mouth, ripping the cork free with his teeth. The bottle made a loud ‘whomp’ sound as he did. I couldn’t rightly say why such an action made my pulse race but it did, though I tried not to let it show. August took two glasses from his cabinet and poured the wine, offering me a glass first. 

“I’ve never had wine so early,” I said. “Mother makes us wait until dinner and even then, she’s not too keen on Marybeth and I indulging in it too often.” 

“If war taught me nothing else it’s that you should never wait to indulge in what you want. You don’t know when your last breath will be so putting your desires on hold may mean that you never get to experience them,” he said. “So if I want cake and wine during the day, I’ll have it.” 

I took my glass and ran my finger over the W that was etched into the stem of it. “May I ask you a question?” 

“You just have.” He gave me a slight smirk but nodded his head at me. “You may ask another.”

“Why…why did you go to war? You’re one of the few Uncursed in town, you could have left here and gone anywhere. But you chose to fight in a war and then return once it was over. Why?”

“I joined the war because I didn’t mind fighting and I wanted to see the world. But I stayed because I realized the best way to learn how people truly think is to see them get scared. Then it’s like skinning them of all their egos, pulling it away from their insides, and you’re left with the true guts of who they are,” he said, grabbing a knife. “I thought by leaving I was getting away from the Beast but it turns out that I was only trading one for a legion of them.” He looked at me. “War makes beasts of all men. Some more violent than others but beasts all the same. And so if I was going to live with beasts, I’d rather do it here. That’s why I returned.” 

“Did it make a beast of you?” I asked quietly. 

“What do you think? Do you see a beast when you look at me?” 

“No, sir.”

“Sir?” he asked with a smirk. 

“Um…no, Captain Walker.” 

He chuckled. “You don’t have to call me ‘captain’ Belle. Or ‘sir’. August is fine.” 

“The Bardot triplets call you Captain.” 

He took two plates from his cabinet and brought them to the table. “They also call you feral, do they not?” he asked. “So perhaps they’re not the best when it comes to titles.” 

“Or perhaps they’re more right than others,” I said. “You are a captain, correct?” 

“I was, yes. But I was barely a man when I gained that position and the things I did to earn it aren’t things you talk about to women.” He sat at the table next to me. “And you’re not feral, do you hear me? They’re just cruel.” 

“They are but that doesn’t mean that they’re wrong,” I said. “I’m not like them. I don’t know how to be soft. I want to be and I try but…Marybeth, she’s the soft one. She has such a tender heart and the talent for delicacy. If you’ve ever seen our needlework from our younger years beside one another you’d be able to tell plainly. She could - and still can - make the most amazingly beautiful works. Even her back stitches were neat. But me?” I shook my head. “It was as if a blind dog did it.” 

He laughed slightly. “It couldn’t have been that bad.” 

“It was. Mother eventually stopped encouraging me because she realized it wasn’t from a lack of trying, it was just that I didn’t have the same talent as Marybeth,” I said. “She and I…we’re like roses. We’ve grown in the same environment, we’ve been cared for in the exact same way, and yet she’s this beautiful, delicate, flower and I…I’m the thorns that grow on the stem beneath it.”

“Anyone can come and pluck a rose. But to handle thorns, someone has to be careful and gentle with how they approach them,” he said. “You deserve someone who will be gentle with you.”

I felt my cheeks warm. I hadn’t expected that response and wasn’t sure what to say to him. “I…I should go,” I said quietly as I stood. 

August reached out and grabbed my hand, stopping me. “Stay. You haven’t touched your wine yet.” 

“I think it might be too early for me to drink it.” 

“So have cake.” 

“I’m not hungry.” 

“Then stay with me.”

I could hear my own uneven breathing. “I’m not much company. You’ll bore of me easily, I assure you.”

“Impossible.” He pushed my chair towards me with his foot without ever letting go of my hand. “Sit. Please.” Though he added ‘please’ there was no request; it was an order. So I sat back down. His eyes felt like they were boring into me and my face flushed warmer. “What do you think of me, Belle?” 

“What do I think of you?” I repeated. He nodded. “I think you’re incredibly courageous. And smart. And I think you stand up for what you believe is right, even if others don’t agree with you.”

“You don’t think I’m handsome?” 

“Of course I do,” I admitted, my ears burning hot. “But you don’t have a say in that. You were born that way. I think what matters most are the things we choose to be. Don’t you?” 

“You’re the only woman in town who speaks directly to me without caring about how I look or that I’m Uncursed.”

“And you’re one of the only people in town who treats me like a lady. Everyone else sees my scraped knees and leaves in my hair and mocks me for having my nose in a book, but you don’t,” I said. “The day after you returned from war, when you gave me a new copy of the book those boys ruined, you told me that you understood why I read so much. That because I’m stuck here, I have to find a way to escape and books…they gave me that. It’s harder to escape in them now that I’m older but it’s the only way I’ll ever experience something new. Maybe it just causes myself heartache to dwell on those things but I want so much more than the life I have and there’s nothing I can do about it. Everyone here should understand, they’re just as trapped as I am, but they don’t. You have left this town and have seen things I’m sure I could never imagine and yet you’re the only one who understands me.” 

“I may be an Uncursed but I know what it’s like to long for something you can’t have,” he said. 

Several hours had passed when there was a knock on August’s door. He answered it and I was surprised to see Marybeth. Mother was worried that I hadn’t returned and had sent her after me to make sure I was okay. August had been telling me about the places he’d been and seen and I wanted to hear more. But he was a gentleman and didn’t want any rumors starting, so he offered to walk Marybeth and me home, quietly telling me that I was free to come back anytime I wanted to hear more. 

Once we got home, he thanked me for the basket I’d delivered earlier and bid me goodbye, but Marybeth wouldn’t let him leave. She said she wanted some fresh air and asked if he’d join her for a walk. He agreed and asked if I wanted to come along. Marybeth shot me a look that would’ve killed me if possible and I politely declined. Instead, I went upstairs to my bedroom and wrote down everything I could remember from August’s stories of the outside world into my diary. I’d lived surrounded by the forest my entire life but I’d never been able to venture into it, so hearing about trees that were over two hundred feet tall and wider than a house seemed impossible. Or mountains that dotted the skyline. Or the ocean. August had made me close my eyes when he talked about the ocean, telling me how everything looked, and felt, and sounded. I ached to be there but I knew it would never be. 

I was at my desk still writing when Marybeth returned. As she entered our shared room, I looked at her with the intent to tease her about her walk with August but before I could open my mouth, she burst into tears. 

“What happened?” I asked. 

“He doesn’t love me!” she wailed. 

“What?” 

She went and flung herself onto her bed beside me. “He doesn’t love me!” 

“How do you know that?” 

“Because…because he told me!” 

“Why would he tell you that without prompt?” 

“He - he didn’t.” She hiccupped. “We were walking and I - I couldn’t stop myself. I had to tell him how I cared for him and that I was madly in love and that I knew I would never love another the way I did him and he…he told me…” 

She was sobbing but my curiosity was getting the best of me. “He told you what?” 

“That he loves someone else!” she squalled. 

“Who?”

“I don’t know. All he said was that she didn’t want to court him.”

I sighed. There wasn’t a single woman in our entire village - save for myself - that didn’t want to court August Walker. It was clear to me that he didn’t share Marybeth’s feelings and attempted to spare her some humiliation of turning her down plainly by telling her that he had feelings for someone who didn’t return them. Though it wounded me to see my sister so upset, I could appreciate August’s forethought to at least attempt to curb her pain. Unfortunately it didn’t work. She cried herself to sleep that night and the next three nights.

Marybeth did her best to avoid August for the next week but it was near impossible to do so when an emergency town meeting was called the following Sunday. We took our seats as Father joined the other elders at the front of the hall. Marybeth was looking behind us when she tapped me. 

“August is coming. Switch places with me,” she whispered urgently. 

“What?” I asked. 

“I can’t bear to sit next to him. Please.” 

Mother wasn’t happy as Marybeth and I swapped places and she sat on the other side of Mother beside Mrs. DeWitt, whom she suddenly found the need to strike up a conversation with. I’d just settled down into my seat when August came and sat beside me. He glanced down at Marybeth before looking over at me. 

“She’s still angry?” he asked quietly. 

“She was never angry. She’s hurt,” I whispered back. 

“It wasn’t my intention to hurt her.” 

“I know.” I looked up at him. “Thank you for trying to spare her feelings.” 

His brow creased. “It didn’t seem to work.” 

“She’ll recover. The thing about Marybeth is that she loves deeply and fiercely. She can’t burn out. But her fire will light up with someone new.”

“She deserves someone whose love burns just as fiercely as hers.” 

“Yes, she does.” 

Once the hall was full, Elder Green stepped forward and the meeting began. “An incident has occurred in the forest,” he said. “I won’t call out any names as they have already been severely punished but last night a group of boys decided to test their bravery by venturing into the forest to see who could remain there the longest.”

Murmurs broke out amongst all of the members of the town. Elder Green held up his hands, a request for complete silence, but it took a moment for the crowd to quiet. “As we well know, the Beast of the forest has forbidden all from entering there unless they are to present a sacrifice to him and this incident was not done in reverence. He has required an additional sacrifice be brought to him. If we do not provide one, he will breach our borders and come into the village to take who he pleases.” 

“This isn’t fair!” Mr. Parker called out. “We all have to participate in the Drawing. I put my name in to make sure that my family is safe. But this was not our fault. Are my children to suffer if my name is drawn and I must go as a sacrifice simply because some foolish boys decided to play games with the Beast?”

The murmurs grew louder as more men agreed. Elder Green struggled to regain control of the floor. Finally, Father stood and held up his hand. “Silence!” he ordered. He waited as the room quietened down. “I understand your fears and concerns. We all do. I myself am a father and I understand the fear of leaving your children behind simply because your name is drawn. However, this is not a Drawing. No one is required to put their name forth to be chosen.”

“Then who will be the sacrifice?” a man yelled. 

“We will require a volunteer,” Father answered. 

The hall broke into louder voices as people expressed their outrage. 

“Who would volunteer for something like this?” I whispered to August. “It’s sure death.” 

“Sure death to one to protect an entire town.”

“Including the woman you love?”

He looked at me. “Yes. Including her.” He looked back to Father and after a moment stood. “I’ll go,” he announced loudly. 

“No!” Marybeth shouted. “Father, no, he doesn’t mean it.” 

He looked at Marybeth. “I do mean it.” 

“August Walker, are you fully aware of what you’re volunteering for?” Father asked. 

August looked at me and I shook my head. “Why must you be so stupidly brave?” I hissed. 

“Love makes people brave,” he said to me before stepping out into the aisle. “Yes, I understand what I am volunteering for.” 

“Then please proclaim it.” 

He took a breath and stood straight, his hands folded behind his back. I saw then the man who had once been a Captain. “The Beast has required a sacrifice to make amends for the disrespect that was shown by the boys who breached our town’s borders as a game. I am volunteering to be the sacrifice so that our town may live in peace and safety until the next Drawing.” 

Marybeth began sobbing and Mother pulled her close. I could see the sound affecting August but he stayed focused straight ahead. I wanted to stop him but what could I do? If it wasn’t him, it would be another. 

“So be it,” Father said, sadness bleeding into his voice. “Captain August Walker, you left this town and fought bravely and valiantly as a soldier and led your men as a captain. When the war ended, you chose to return to this town and provided safety and security for those of us who cannot leave these walls. Though you leave behind no wife or children, your legacy will be your unwavering bravery and your willingness to give up your own life to save the lives of others. Your sacrifice will not be in vain. It will be remembered. It will be taught to future generations. You will live on so long as we do.” 

“Come forward,” Elder Green said. 

August’s eyes flicked over to me for a second, then he looked straight ahead once more and began walking towards the front of the hall. Once he reached the Elders, they all stood and came forward, meeting him. Elder Green held up the white cloth and unfolded it, revealing a single red rose. He held it out and presented it to August. August picked the rose up by the stem and wrapped his hand around it, squeezing it tightly. When he released it, he opened his hand and held up his palm for everyone to see. Bright red blood was smudged across it. Marybeth’s cries became loud sobs then. There was no turning back. Blood was spilt. August was the sacrifice. 

#Henry Cavill #Henry Cavill fan fiction #August Walker #August Walker fan fiction #Beauty and The Beast AU #Beauty and The Beast AU fan fiction #Henry Cavill fan fic #The Beauty of Thorns

[sillyrabbit81]

Fuse

Prompt: Sleepy & Lazy, Daddy Kink from @myaimlessuniverse (x) Thank you so much for sending the prompt in. Sorry its taken so long.

Pairing: Captain Syverson x Female Reader

Word Count: Approx. 600

Warnings: Smut, daddy kink, praise kink, probably some dd/lg vibes (I don't know! maybe!), p in v sex, Sy POV

Authors Note: Hi... Been a while... Probably not what you expected, but I swear I'm working on the Brotherhood, but I also have quite a few of these left so I thought I'd knock one out as a warm up for the smut I'm trying to write in the Brotherhood (the Brotherhood won't have daddy kink in it fyi) I'm not feeling Daddy kink like I used to and so I tried to write this a little different from what I had done before. Fingers crossed! As always I need to thank my amazing mate and reader @nashibirne , your thoughtful and honest comments are always appreciated. I also need to thank @augustsprincess for her reading and suggestions.

It was edited by me, on the fly, there will be errors

Dividers by me.

Masterlist

Celebration Masterlist

Sy tightens his jaw and he breathes out a ragged curse through his teeth as he slips past your slick, velvet folds and into your silken heat. He watches, enthralled by the utterly carnal vision of himself disappearing inside your impossibly tight core.

“Stop,” you gasp and he peers up at you perched precariously above him. 

Your thighs tremble beneath his hands and it takes everything he has to stop himself from grabbing your hips and sliding your blossoming core all the way down his cock.

“You’re doing so well, babygirl,” he says, dropping his gaze back to the explicit view between your legs. 

You’ve only taken the tip of him inside yourself and already he feels that tingle brewing in the base of his spine. He’s waited so long for you, longer than he ever thought he’d wait for anyone and he could barely stand it.

“Just a little more, I know you can do it.”

“Daddy,” you whimper. “You’re too big.”

He groans as sweat breaks out over his forehead. “Fuck, baby. You’re killin’ me here.”

“I’m sorry, Daddy,” you say, in a voice that quivers as much as your pouty bottom lip.

Sy’s heart breaks and he sits up drawing you to his chest. “Hush. You did so good for me baby. Daddy’s proud of you for tryin’.” 

With the tip of his cock still trapped within your snug pussy, he rocks you slowly, murmuring his sweet praise in your ear as he strokes your hair. His thumb caresses your cheek and he smiles when he feels your soft lips against his pad. His cock pulses inside of you as your plush tongue curls around him and you begin to suck. It doesn’t take long for him to feel your quivering body relax against him. He closes his eyes, content as he feels you hum happily within his arms.

He doesn’t really notice at first, he thinks the soft warmth enveloping his cock must be his imagination. Then he hears you moan.

“Babygirl?” he murmurs, softly.

“Hmm?”

He looks at your pretty head resting on his shoulder. You look almost asleep, your eyes seem to have trouble focussing and you’re still sucking hard on his thumb. But then you sigh and nuzzle into his neck while you roll your hips and there’s no doubt about it, you’re slowly sinking lower onto his cock.

“That’s my girl,” he growls into your ear. “That my good fuckin’ girl.”

Sy clenches his jaw to keep himself in check, each moment you rock your hips and take more of him into you is the most exquisite torture he’s ever had. 

“Am I doing good, Daddy?” you ask, hesitantly, dropping his thumb from your mouth.

He’s trembling as much as you were earlier. He has no idea how you can’t see how much you’re affecting him, that you can’t see that in this moment he’d give you everything, anything, just for a little bit more of your sweet pussy.

“So good baby,” he groans. “But don’t stop, Daddy needs more.”

He has to lay down, he has to see his thickness stretch you open. He holds your hips firmly, keeping you in place as he falls back to the bed. His mouth falls open as he watches the last of his cock vanish and your bodies completely fuse. 

He can’t hold it back, that orgasm that threatened from the start tore through his spine and his hips bucked up from the mattress. His eyes force themselves shut as hot pulses surge through him and even though he can’t see anymore, the image of your bodies finally together is burned into his psyche.

#henry cavill #henry cavill fanfic #rabbitsmilestone23 #henry cavill fanfiction #henry cavill fan fiction #captain syverson #captain sy #captain syverson fanfiction #captain syverson fanfic #captain sy x reader #captain sy fanfiction #syverson #captain syverson x reader #syverson x you #syverson x reader

[greensleeves888]

Widow's Pique - Chapter 31

Overview: Penny is a 41 year old mother of one, existing day to day in the normal world until a chance encounter changes everything, for everyone.

Author’s Notes: Hey Tumblrs! So this is my first ever story (not counting the shit I created at school). So be easy on me! I apologise for any typos, and for my misunderstanding of basic punctuation. This story has a little bit of Yours Truly woven into it. It’s a slow burn, full of angst, inner monologues, and insecurities but promises a happy ending of sorts! Using just my imagination and countless hours “researching” Mr. Cavill, I hope I can portray a different side to this fascinating man. Please indulge me …

Pairing: Henry Cavill x Plus Size/Curvy OFC (Penny) Chapter: 31 of ?

Word Count: 10.5k!

Warnings: Angst. Pregnancy. Alcohol. Weight issues. Foreplay.

Disclaimers: This is all fiction baby!

Over 18’s only. No permission is given for reposting my work, copying it or parts of the source material, and claiming it as your own.

MASTERLIST

Big kisses in advance for your Re-blogs, Comments, and Likes - they mean SO much to me xxx There is a Spotify playlist that accompanies this story - to listen click here

Widow’s Pique

"White or Pink Pen?"

"White, always white" Penny shouted from her office over the sounds of Dusty Springfield.

She was dancing on the spot as she worked on an intricate collage piece at her idea bench. Moments later a large, warm pair of hands crept onto her hips as Henry joined her.

"I'm sorry to interrupt the artist at work honey, but I just couldn't resist those wiggling hips".

Penny spun around and laced her hands behind Henry's neck, continuing her swaying. Henry took the opportunity to steal a kiss from her smiling lips and a squeeze of her ample backside in the process.

She rested the side of her head against his chest as they continued to move to the music. Henry peppered her hair with more kisses as he squeezed her close.

"You ok mama?" he asked as the song finished.

"I'm good thanks." she spoke dreamily.

"What can I do for you, get for you?"

"Nothing Honey, I have everything I need." she rested her head back against his chest as she rubbed her hands over his strong, smooth back, tucking her hands up under his t-shirt to feel his soft, warm flesh.

"Was that Fernando on the phone?"

"It was indeed."

"All ok?"

"All is ok. Going swimmingly in fact"

Henry had kept his word and had made the wedding planning as stress-free as possible. In the space of two weeks the date had been set, invites sent, catering and entertainment sorted and even the flowers. By using the professionals (and throwing undisclosed amounts of money in their direction), most of the hassle was out of their hands, leaving Henry and Penny just to make the fun decisions. The venue was easy; Penny's back garden was perfect for an informal late summer wedding. The field behind would house a marquee for the meal and evening entertainment. All that was needed to finalise was Henry's suit and Penny's dress.

"So are you excited to sort out your dress tomorrow, Pen?" he asked, knowing she was apprehensive.

"I am, I just hope they can make me something comfortable and pretty. God knows how much bigger I'll be in another two weeks time!"

Henry rumbled a small laugh, placing his hand on the side of Penny's stomach, rubbing it gently.

"You're going to look stunning Pen, I have no doubt."

He was careful with his choice of words, knowing how uncomfortable she had become lately. He was also worried the baby might arrive before they had the chance to get married. Penny certainly looked ready to go. She hardly complained though, in fear of him becoming even more over protective of her.

Henry insisted on driving Penny to the dressmakers, parking up in a secluded alleyway to access the discreet entrance for high-profile clients. Marianne and Helen were already inside, sipping champagne despite it only being 11am. He wore a tracksuit and baseball cap as his 'disguise' as he graciously helped Penny out of the beast. He made sure Penny was happy and comfortable inside the boutique before being shooed away by his mother.

"I'll meet you all back at yours later ok?"

"Yes dear, now clear off darling, you're not supposed to be here." Marianne quipped as she waved her hand dismissing Henry from the lavish room. Henry grumbled and kissed Penny gently on the lips.

"Any issues, call me ok honey?"

Penny nodded and crossed her heart as she helped move him towards the door.

A tall elegant lady and two young assistants wafted into the room to greet Penny.

"Ms Green? I'm Lily. It's a pleasure to meet you, thank you for choosing us to make this special piece for you."

Penny blushed, not sure she was up for all the fussing. "Thank you, Lily. And thank you for seeing me so quickly, as you can see, time is of the essence." she laughed as she patted her bump.

Although Penny had been trepidatious, the experience was unfolding to be much more relaxed and enjoyable than she'd expected. Despite spending most of the time in just her wedding underwear she enjoyed being swathed in different fabrics, Lily draping and folding the most stunning lace and silk around Penny to find the look that worked best. There were even a couple of pre-made maternity wedding dresses that Penny could try on. Unsurprisingly these were too small still for Penny, making her feel huge again. Lily was so serene and patient, listening intently to everything Penny liked and disliked. The idea of the dress slowly came together from shape ideas and inspiration from the other dresses she was shown. All of Penny's concerns were met, and Marianne and Helen even managed to keep their stronger opinions to themselves.

Once Penny was back in her own dress she hugged Lily and popped to the loo whilst Helen brought her car around to the side entrance.

Helen's drove a Tesla Model 3, which seemed like it was on the ground when Penny tried to sit elegantly in the passenger seat. She regretted wearing such a figure hugging outfit, adding to her inflexibility.

"I hope you're hungry ladies as I've booked a table for lunch at Bertrand's."

"Oh, I thought we were going back to yours Marianne? Won't Henry be waiting?"

"He'll be fine with Colin, It'll do you both good to have some time apart."

Penny wasn't sure what she meant by that but her stomach growled happily in the anticipation of food.

The beautiful Art Nouveau facade of the swanky restaurant opened up into a vast maze of eclectic but lavishly furnished booths, perfect for discreet dining. On their way to their table they hardly saw any of the other diners, but the hubbub of conversation proved that the place was full. Penny was glad of this, really not wanting to get recognised in her current state.

After a delicious array of crudités Helen and Marianne revealed their motivation behind the lunch.

"Penny, we wanted to talk to you about the wedding." Hells began, glancing nervously at Marianne.

"We, well a few of us are a little worried that this might be a bit too much for you at the moment. If you wanted to change your mind no-one at all would think bad of you."

Penny finished crunching a radish as she took in what was being said. Marianne took this as a bad sign.

"Penny, dearest. You know I adore you both, and I know Henry better than he knows himself. Once he puts his mind to something he's a force to be reckoned with. We just want to make sure that you're not feeling too pressured. We just worry, that's all."

Silence fell on the table as Penny slowly sipped her water.

"Honestly, you have nothing to worry about. I'm ridiculously calm about the wedding. It's as much my idea as it's Henry's, he's not pressurising me into anything. I swear. If anything it's been taking my mind off birthing this huge-ass baby."

Helen snorted, and instantly covered her mouth in embarrassment.

At that moment Marianne's phone rang, it was Henry.

"We're just grabbing a bite to eat darling. Penny was famished." Marianne winked at Penny as she continued to 'uh-huh' and 'ok' to Henry's call.

"She's fine Henry, we are taking good care of her, it's all very private here too so please don't stress. See if you can help your Dad move the treadmill upstairs while you're waiting." All three ladies chuckled at the thought of Henry wrestling the machine up the staircases.

After the call, lunch progressed as normal. Talking of their outfits and the guest list.

"Henry's requested no phones at the wedding too, that'll be interesting. He's also hired security! I've never heard of security at a wedding, I think it's a bit OTT really."

"It's all quite standard for this kind of do Penny. Let's just hope the press don't get a whiff of it beforehand, you don't want helicopters buzzing over the house." Helen joked, but Penny suddenly sat up a bit straighter, looking concerned.

Marianne held her wrist "Are you ok my dear?"

"Could that really happen? I not a big fan of paparazzi or helicopters." Penny shuddered thinking back to the time Henry was whisked away from her.

"There's always a small chance of it being leaked, but Henry is more than on top of the privacy for everyone, especially you my darling." Marianne squeezed her wrist again before finishing her fish.

Penny sat back, feeling a small braxton hick threatening. Her appetite for her fancy sandwich suddenly lost.

Four days before the big day the house and grounds were already buzzing with people. The marquee was set up. the walkways being laid, the car parking mats covered the field next door, and swathes of festoon lights were being hung in every space. A small barn-style building was being constructed at the end of the garden. This was the covered area for the wedding, where Penny and Henry would stand. It was beautiful, even before it was decorated. Penny wondered if they could keep it.

Today Lily was visiting with the final fitting of the dress, Penny couldn't wait to see it. Henry's tailor was already downstairs, making final adjustments to Henry and Ben's suits.

"Jesus George, the waist is cutting into me, is that right?" Henry complained, feeling a bit hot and bothered.

"Well, Henry that will be because you are a little bit fatter than the last time I measured you. I'm going to have to let this out, quite a lot too by the looks of it."

Henry breathed in and looked in the mirror. Ben sniggered at him.

"Hey, short stuff, the same will happen to you when you get to my age." Henry joked as he breathed out again and patted his pooch. He'd not paid that much attention to his own physique of late. Especially as he'd cleared his schedule and had cut down on the training. What he'd forgotten to cut down on was his calorie intake. He looked again in the mirror as George fussed around his waistband, getting impatient with Henry's movement.

"It's not too bad is it George?" Henry rubbed his stomach, purposefully pushing it out even more for comedic effect.

"Hmm, nothing that a girdle wouldn't fix, now keep still."

Henry looked at Ben and pulled a face like a naughty school boy.

"No competition for Mummy's though Ben, right?" he joked "Don't tell her I said that please!" he added, suddenly becoming serious.

Ben motioned locking his mouth and putting the key in his t-shirt pocket.

The gate buzzer seemed to be going off every 10 minutes with one delivery or another. This time Colin was sent to answer the door as Lily and her two assistants arrived carrying a huge garment bag between them. He smiled, nodded and again wordlessly ushered them towards the stairs.

Penny was in her bedroom with Kate helping her tie her hair back. She was already suffering in the heat, a large fan blasted warm air at her in an attempt to cool her down. She fiddled with the back of her white bra as Kate swotted her hand away and sorted it for her. She'd resorted to bearing a belly band to support her bump. Henry helped her with it every morning now, it gave her some relief on her aching back and hips. He'd also cradle her bump for her as he stood behind her. It was such a relief until he gave up complaining it was uncomfortable and pulling his back.

A light knock on Penny's bedroom door signalled the arrival of Lily and The Dress. At this point Penny just wanted something white that fitted. Lily greeted Penny like an old friend, Penny loved how elegant and serene she was. She hoped some of that would rub off on her right now.

"Are you ready for this Penny? Any adjustments we can make today, we have our kits with us, so don't worry at all ok?"

The garment bag was hooked onto the top of the door frame as the two young assistants Eloise and Suni slowly unzipped and lifted it out to present to Penny.

"Oh, my, god Lily! It's absolutely stunning, you're a freakin' wizard! The detail, the fabric, it's, it's, just beautiful - so beautiful." Penny covered her face as she shuddered a huge cry into her hands. Kate rubbed her back as she too hitched her breath with tears in her eyes.

"Right, enough of the hormones Mrs Bump. Let's wrangle you into this and see how it looks." Kate barked, knowing that they needed to get a move on.

Another knock at the door signalled mild panic thinking Henry was trying to come in until Marianne spoke from the other side.

"Is it here? Can I see it Penny?"

Carefully, the several pairs of hands helped Penny step into the silk slip under-dress. Lily skilfully began lacing the back as the cool, soft fabric began to mould around Penny's curves. The bias cut of the fabric clung to Penny's shape without restricting her movement.

Next was the sheer lace part. Suni and Eloise laid this out on the floor in front of Penny. She carefully stepped into the centre as the delicate fabric was lifted up carefully. Marianne stood with her hands over her mouth. Tears in her eyes, unable to speak. Kate was also uncharacteristically quiet as she swallowed her emotions, not wanting to set Penny off again.

Slowly Penny threaded her arms into the long sleeves, thankful that the fabric had some give to it. Nothing felt tight, everything fitted so well. Lilly and Suni began to fasten the tiny buttons at the back as Eloise adjusted the fabric to the right position. Penny smoothed her hand over the beautiful open mesh cotton lace, tracing the large swirls and leaves.

"Now Penny, the good news is that we just have half a dozen buttons to reposition, tell me, how does it feel? How do you feel in it?

At this point Eloise angled Penny's floor mirror towards her. She stared at her reflection, unable to find the right words, amazed at what she was seeing. Her large bump looked perfectly at home within the dress, something Penny never expected. Her hips were smooth, her arms looked slender, and even her boobs were flattered but tamed within the stunning outfit.

Realising that everyone was waiting for her to speak, Penny cleared her throat.

"I - I bloody love it!!" as she jumped up and down on the spot squealing.

Everyone else followed suit as downstairs in the kitchen Henry, Colin and Ben stared up at the ceiling.

"Either the dress looks good, or there's a huge spider in the bedroom", Henry joked as he picked up Ben for a hug. "Let's go check on the progress outside, short stuff." and they went to track down Fernando, the wedding planner.

After lunch more pampering arrived for Penny, a fresh hair colour and spray tan whilst Marianne and Colin readied the spare rooms for more guests.

Even Callum was helping by re-gravelling the track and tidying up the entrance through the farm.

Penny had needed another nap so Kate left her to rest whilst she surveyed the back garden, marvelling at how pretty it already looked. She found Henry in the marquee looking frazzled.

"Hey, hot stuff - how's it all going?"

Henry blew a sweaty curl from his forehead as his face cracked into a tired smile.

"It's ok, there are a few delays with some bits and bobs, but on the whole, ok. There's just so much last minute stuff. Is Penny ok?"

"Yeah, she's having a cat nap. I thought you had a guy for all this running around?"

"I do, I just want it to be perfect."

"Well it won't be perfect if your blood pressure is through the roof and you feel like shit will it? Now come inside and have a drink and a sit down - no buts."

"Yes Mrs Roberts" he saluted as he followed Kate back through the garden, his beady eye checking off other things he still needed to ask Fernando about. Kal bounded up to him, knowing he need a bear hug.

"Leave the dog Son and come and get a cold one, you've done enough for today." Colin instructed.

Henry laughed at everyone's concern, he felt truly grateful of how helpful everyone had been. He grunted in discomfort as he sat down at the dining table, grabbing for some buttered bread.

"Why don't you get an early night after you've eaten poppet?" Marianne suggested.

"You all trying to get rid of me or something?" he muttered with his mouth full.

"Not at all, you just need to save some energy for the big day son, and of course tomorrow evening."

Henry had refused a stag do, convincing himself he would jinx everything and send Penny into early labour if he were to go somewhere, so instead his brothers were coming to the farm to give him some kind of a traditional send off.

Kate had organised a similar evening for Penny despite her reluctance too. Henry had pleaded with Kate not to do anything too rowdy.

"It's not a stag do Pops, just a few of us having a couple drinks and playing some poker ok?"

"Of course, of course." Colin winked at Ben, who had been clinging to his new grandad like a limpet since he arrived.

Henry decided an early night was very appealing if it meant escaping the fussing, and the chance to spend some alone time with his Penny.

"Hey sleepyhead." Henry whispered as he kissed Penny's forehead.

"Oh, shit. It's dark already, you should have woken me up." Penny groaned, as she shuffled and shifted to sit up. Henry went to help her but she clamped her arms down in defiance "I'm fine Henry, I can sit up myself!"

Henry stood back, hands in the air. Too tired to laugh or get annoyed at her snapping. Instead he began undressing on the way to the bathroom to clean his teeth.

Moments later Penny appeared to use the toilet.

"I'm sorry, I couldn't wait." she apologised for her unladylike gesture.

"You can poop in front of me my dear, I really don't mind."

"I'm not pooping, just having a wee. Your daughter is using my bladder as a yoga mat."

Henry chuckled, she was always 'his' daughter when she was causing trouble. He had a feeling this would still be the case once she arrived. He was more than ok with that, already knowing she would have him around her little finger from day one.

Back in bed, Penny remained sitting up as Henry plonked himself down face first and wrestled with his pillow for a comfortable position.

"You're exhausted Hen." Henry murmured into his pillow. Penny reached over and began rubbing his shoulder muscles, Henry groaned again. After a couple of minutes he shifted to lay on his side, taking Penny's hand and kissing it.

"You shouldn't be fussing over me, I should be fussing over you, my love"

Penny smiled softly "You've not stopped for days, you're going to be exhausted by Saturday."

"I'll be fine. I'm strong, like ox" he joked as he flexed his bicep half heartedly.

"I'm sorry for snapping earlier, I know I've been a prize bitch lately."

Henry smirked and blinked slowly. "You've not been a bitch, you wouldn't know how. So you've been a bit testy. So would I carrying around our not so little beany baby 24/7. You're doing so well honey, I'm so very proud of you."

Penny's skin shivered with his praise. Henry schooched up to sit closer, his large warm hand atop Penny's round stomach. Henry dipped his head towards her belly and kissed it. Penny rested her hand over his.

"Mummy and I can't wait to meet you our darling girl. Just keep on baking nicely, ok?" he kissed her again as Penny wrapped her arms around her beautiful, sweet man. Overwhelmed with happiness and emotion. She began to cry, a regular occurrence lately, as Henry shushed her, peppering her hair with kisses as they both drifted off to sleep together.

The next day seemed just as hectic as the last few. Not helped by the arrival of more Cavill's.

Kate's sole purpose seemed to be in following Penny everywhere she went, making her sit down and drink and eat enough. Whilst Kate had to visit the loo Penny escaped into the back garden to check on things. She found Henry and Callum helping roll barrels of beer towards the marquee. It was only 10am but the sun was already scorching hot. Both men were red faced and very sweaty.

"You know there are dozens of guys here that are hired to help with this kind of stuff!"

Henry straightened up, his back obviously hurting him.

"Why are you out here Penelope?" he scowled at her, ignoring her comment.

"Because I'm sick of being under house arrest, I want to help."

"Somehow I don't think you're going to be much help at the moment Penny." Callum joked.

Henry shot a worried glance at Callum.

"I'm pregnant, not useless Callum." Callum looked at the ground, knowing he should have kept his mouth shut.

"Pen, most of the stuff is lifting and shifting stuff. You really think that's a good idea?"

She pursed her lips, knowing she had a weak argument.

Surprisingly Henry added "Find Fernando, he's in the marquee, he might have a job for you."

Penny perked up and turned on her heel as she tried her best not to waddle away towards the marquee.

Callum gave a surprised look in Henry's direction.

"Don't worry, Fernando will send her away. He's terrified she's going to have the baby any second now." Henry laughed.

"Aren't we all?" Callum added as they shared a concerned look at each other.

The plan that evening for the 'non' Hen and Stag do's was for Helen's girls to host a fun games and pizza night for the children upstairs, whilst the men tested out a section of the marquee and the bar outside. This left the ladies with the downstairs of the house. Whilst Penny was upstairs trying to find something to wear the other ladies were setting up balloons and decorations as a surprise. Henry poked his head in through the back door only to be shooed away by everyone.

Out in the marquee, Colin was mixing up cocktails as Charlie and Simon cooked up a meat-fest on the barbeque. Tom was in the DJ Booth, reliving his youth whilst Callum helped Piers and Nik set up the poker table. Henry purposely didn't want any celebrity friends there tonight, despite feeling guilty for not inviting them. Some he'd invited to the wedding though but he didn't want it to feel like a showbiz event, it was about him and Penny.

Callum was surprised to get an invite tonight. He wasn't sure if it was the best idea considering his feelings towards Penny. Over the past few months, he'd tried to keep his distance, but Penny and Henry both tried to keep him in their lives.

Henry arrived back from the house "So let's get this fucking party started then boys!" Much to the amusement of the other Cavill brothers. Despite strict orders from Marianne, they were going to make their brother's 'stag do', an evening to remember.

Kate found Penny rifling through her wardrobe, piles of clothes already discarded on the bed. Penny was red faced and swearing under her breath as she fanned her face with her spare hand.

"Oi, Green, what the hell are you up to?"

"What does it look like? Trying to find something to fucking wear! Nothing fucking fits!"

"Woah, alright Gordon Ramsay, chill. Let me chose. Where's the first thing you tried on?"

"On the bed." Penny gestured, with a petulant look on her face.

Kate could help but smirk at her attitude, but was careful not to rile her up too much. She flipped the pile of clothes over and found a simple round neck bodycon dress made from a beautiful dusky pink stretchy fabric.

"What was wrong with this one Pen?" Kate asked.

"Too clingy, looked like Kim K on a very bad day." Penny tried to joke, knowing she was being difficult.

"But does it fit?"

"Yes.."

"And is it comfy?"

"Hmm, I guess so…"

"Great, that's what you're wearing. Put it on and stop your whinging woman."

Penny sighed and stomped over to grab the dress from Kate.

"Henry bought me this, I look like a fucking sausage in it Katie."

"I don't care, no-one cares. They just want to see you and celebrate with you ok. Stop being so difficult woman." Kate knew she was pushing her luck being so bolshy with her, but she figured it was the only way to get the night started.

Penny readjusted her boobs once she pulled the dress down. Kate grabbed some hairspray and fluffed up Penny's hair. A quick flick of mascara and lipstick and Penny was finally ready.

"Fucking Kim K would wanna look like you Pen, you look hot honey!"

Penny daren't even look in the mirror, knowing Kate was just trying to make her feel better.

After copious amounts of barbequed protein, the men readied their bravado for the poker game. The Cavill brothers, in particular Charlie, seemed supremely confident that he would fleece everyone before the night was over. Colin quietly smirked, knowing from experience that the opposite would be more likely.

"Deal me in, I'm just going to check on Pen." Henry slurred, already several beers in.

"Woah, woah, woah!" came the combined protest "Leave the woman alone, if there was a problem, you would hear about it Hank - so sit the fuck down." Piers barked.

Henry sat down with a pout.

Kate led an anxious Penny past Ben's room after goodnight kisses, and loudly announced her arrival to the gaggle of girls downstairs.

"Surprise!!!! Happy Hen, Engagement, Baby Shower Penny!!!" the well practiced chorus sang out.

Penny clutched her chest and held back more tears as she saw the beautiful balloons and banners that the girls had put up whilst she was getting ready.

"We thought we'd roll them all into one Pen, as you don't like to waste any time!" Kate whispered as she patted Penny's backside.

Julia walked up to Penny, giving her a huge double cheek kiss and then tying a pretty flowery belt around her waist as Charlotte placed an equally tasteful floral crown atop Penny's head.

Several photos were taken with the custom balloon backdrop as Marianne poured the Prosecco.

Penny reluctantly agreed to a couple sips before complaining it was giving her heartburn.

Her dress was a big hit, with everyone admiring Penny's impressive bump.

"When I was pregnant with Hughie I swelled up like a balloon, do you remember Pen? It was fucking awful, you're just all belly Pen Pen, like you were with Ben. So not fair how you can look so good when you're so pregnant!"

"Did Henry pay you all to make me feel less huge ladies?" Penny asked, half seriously as she was feeling super self-conscious in her figure hugging outfit.

"I see Hank is trying to compete with you Pen in the belly department." Heather joked, nudging Penny with her pointy elbow.

"Heather, now that's enough. You know better than to comment on Henry's weight, he can get very sensitive about it." Marianne chastised.

"He's always the first to take the piss out of my Charlie if he's starting to look a little chubby, it's nice to see the tables turned." Heather continued, as Vicky and Charlotte nodded in agreement.

"Well I love his new tummy, it suits him too." Penny added, feeling bad that Henry's weight was being discussed.

"That man can make anything look good, even a gut!" Kate chuckled.

"Well that's enough fat-shaming our lovely Henry, let's all grab some food and then we can get the games underway." Helen instructed.

"Games?" Penny asked reluctantly.

"Read 'em and weep." Piers gloated as he laid down his winning hand amidst groans and obscenities from the rest of the table.

"Fuck this, I need a piss." Tom threw his cards down and headed off into the dark field outside, tripping over two guy ropes on the way.

"So bloody lucky Piers, next year we're going to Vegas son." Colin added

"You're on Pops, as long as we can take Hank to pay for everything."

Henry sat up from resting his head on the table, struggling to keep his eyes open after the constant flow of whiskey.

"Shall I run in and get coffees?" David suggested, being the most sober of the group.

"I'll come with you." Henry lurched out of his seat.

Callum stood to support him, "Maybe let Dave go for now Henry, you might want to sober up a bit before you go back inside."

"Hmm, kay." he agreed, feeling lightheaded from standing up so quickly.

"Let's finish up this meat and get the after party started boys." Charlie added with a chicken drumstick already in hand.

"Report back on the situation inside will you Dave?" Nik asked as David wove his way back to the garden.

The Hen party was well underway as David tried to sneak in the back, it took 5 seconds for Helen to spot him.

"David, what are you doing here?"

"Coffee." was his deliberately short response.

Helen was too tipsy to question him, "How civilised!" she chuckled before heading back to the makeshift dance floor.

Penny was trying her best to keep up with everyone despite being the only fully sober adult in the building. 'My humps' came on the sound system and one by one the ladies grabbed cushions, bowls and spare clothing to shove up their dresses to mirror Penny's impressive humps of her own.

Penny was screaming with laughter at the ridiculous sight before her. Glad that Kiri and Marianne were taking lots of photos to document it. Penny joined in as best as she could rubbing her bump against the others.

David looked up from the kitchen, shaking his head in amusement.

"There we're doing what?" Colin asked, confused by David's explanation.

"They'd all wedged cushions up their dresses to give them big bellies, like Penny's." he repeated as he set the heavy tray of coffee and cups on the bar.

"What the fuck? That's hilarious." Tom piped up.

"What was Pen doing?" Henry asked, now leaning against the bar, messily making himself a coffee.

"Dancing and laughing."

"Jesus Christ, if those women put her into labour there'll be hell to pay." Henry grumbled, trying to squint through the opening in the marquee towards the house.

"Chill bruv, she's in safe hands." Simon added, trying to stop Henry worrying.

"Maybe we should go back in the house with cushions up our tops and join them." Piers joked.

"Dad and Henry won't need the cushions though P" Charlie quickly quipped.

Henry broke the laughter with his angry rebuttal "Fuck off Chuck, I knew you couldn't help but take the fucking piss."

"Ah come on Hank, I'm only joking, so what, you're carrying a little extra timber these days."

"Don't they call it a sympathy belly?" Nik retorted with a snigger.

"Both you and Simon did the same when your girls were expecting." Nik pointed to Charlie.

"I can still take you all down brothers, just remember that."

"Let's fucking have it then!" Charlie shouted with excitement as he practically ripped off his shirt and ran towards Henry, attempting to wrestle him to the ground.

Several minutes later a bemused Tom, David & Callum leaned against the bar as they watched the five large men act like kids again, shirts off, clumsily trying to pin each other down onto the floor. Henry was bearing the brunt of most of this after his challenge.

"Are they always like this Col?" Tom inquired, as Colin sighed and nodded.

"Fucking hell Piers, mind my face." Henry grunted as he tried to get away from his brothers. They helped him to his feet as he grumpily wiggled his nose, checking for damage.

"Let's try something a little more civilised shall we chaps?" Tom began, as the Cavill boys wiped their faces with their tops. "A little arm wrestling competition will sift the boys from the men I think…"

Callum looked up at the ceiling and chose to Irish up his coffee…

After an enforced break to let Penny rest, the classic baby shower games began. Labour or orgasm faces, famous baby photos, nappy snacks, and guessing the weight of the baby.

Ben sneaked down to check on Penny and see if he was missing out on any fun. He made sure to give Penny the biggest hug, with a kiss for his baby sister too before he scampered back to his own party.

Penny was helped up to go and cut the stunning three tiered buttercream cake. It had edible flowers pressed into the icing and a beautiful gold crepe paper flower on the very top. The ladies had all worked up an appetite, so before long they all were tucking into the deliciously moist masterpiece.

Penny stood looking out into the back garden, the festoon lights making everything look romantic. She could see some movement inside the marquee, but it was too far to make out what was what. She could guarantee that Henry was already three sheets to the wind, but she was glad he was letting his hair down after how hard he'd been working lately.

"Right-ho, everyone pair up and get comfy. Remember the rules gents, and may the best man win." Tom announced as he sat down to square up to Charlie. David was against Simon, Callum against Piers, and Henry against Nik.

They took turns so they could watch each match. The aim was to all arm wrestle each other, and the two with the most wins face-off at the end.

Callum was reluctant to join in, not sure if he was up for the testosterone-fuelled challenge, but he was also a little curious to see if he could beat Henry.

Nik, Tom, Henry, and Callum all faired well unsurprisingly. Tom gloated knowing they'd underestimated his natural strength. All that rock climbing was finally paying off. Charlie pouted every time he lost, only managing to beat David. Henry was being pretty cocky, sure that no one would be a match for him. He knew Nik was his biggest opponent, so braced himself for a challenge. But his flippant attitude to Callum led to a quick surprise defeat. Henry's pride was dented. His brothers found this beyond hilarious. Tom and Callum were deadlocked in their match for so long that the others started to get bored. They were both evenly matched. But Callum's larger frame eventually won for him. Finally once the scores were totted up the last match to decide the winner was on. Henry vs Callum.

Both men shook their arms and stretched. Trying to revive their overworked muscles after so many matches. Both tried pretending that they weren't too fussed about winning, but once they sat down, face to face again the atmosphere changed. This time Henry wasn't going to underestimate the farmer, he knew Callum would love to have bragging rights from this, but Henry wasn't going to allow it. He was fucking Superman for crying out loud, his inebriated brain kept reminding him.

After the first minute, both held up their sides. Each huffing and puffing with exertion. Sweat dripped off the end of Henry's nose, whilst Callum's neck and face were bright red.

"Ready to quit yet Supes?" Callum goaded.

"Just about to ask you the same thing Giles." Henry spat, with gritted teeth.

The other men shouted out their support and tried to put them off at the same time. Charlie was filming on his phone, adding to Henry's annoyance.

After another few minutes of stalemate, Colin piped up.

"Boys, you're going to cause yourselves some mischief like this, let's just call it a tie now."

Both ignored Colin and looked into each other's eyes. Neither wanted to give up, but neither felt they could keep this up much longer. Henry's bicep and forearm were on fire, his fingers threatening to cramp. The tendons in Callum's neck looked painful as he breathed heavily through his flared nostrils.

"Decorative muscles don't always equate to real world strength Cavill." Callum muttered, using what felt like his last attempt to put Henry off.

"And shoving your arm up a cow's arse does too then?" Henry added with a cocky smile.

From nowhere Callum found some extra energy as he managed to push Henry's arm to the side. Henry dug deep and used every ounce of strength, but at this compromised angle, he just didn't have the power to come back. He grunted loudly and suddenly the back of his hand hit the table, he'd lost.

"What the fuck Hank?" Charlie shouted at him.

Henry stood up, knocking his chair over in the process as he angrily walked back to the bar to reclaim his drink before heading out into the field.

Callum was amazed he'd properly beaten him, after accepting that their first match was a lucky punt. Disappointingly he didn't feel as elated as he'd expected either. He stood up, rubbing his arm as he received several pats on the back in congratulations.

Penny leaned against the kitchen island nibbling on some red peppers, one of her main pregnancy cravings, as she shifted her weight to her other foot. Marianne walked up behind her giving her a small back rub as she passed.

"Do you want me to check on them Penny?" she asked.

"Who?" Penny replied, knowing exactly who she meant as the kids had only just been checked on by Helen.

"The boys outside my dear, I can see that you're fretting a little."

"Am I that obvious?!" Penny chuckled, holding her bump as it moved. "I guess I'm feeling a little needy, I just hate being apart from him at the moment. I feel safe when he's around."

Marianne wrapped her arm behind Penny, giving her a tight squeeze.

"That's very sweet my dear, not needy at all. And perfectly natural in your condition too."

"I'm sure they're having a good time, and don't need us checking up on them," Penny admitted, making herself drag her focus away from the garden.

When Henry didn't return to the tent Callum poured a couple of whiskeys and went in search outside.

He found Henry sitting on the wooden ceremony platform at the back of the garden. He'd watched as Penny looked wistfully out into the garden and her sweet interaction with his mum. Tears had tumbled down his cheeks.

"Hey" Callum announced.

"Hey", Henry added, sniffing and wiping his face as he gladly accepted the scotch.

Callum plonked himself down beside Henry, almost losing his balance in the process.

They sat in silence for a few moments, just watching the ladies inside, smiling at their happy faces and bursts of laughter.

"Looks like they're having a good time?" Callum interjected.

"It does."

"You ok Henry?"

"Yeah, just needed some air."

Callum swigged the last of his whiskey down with a grimace. He was feeling bad thinking he'd upset Henry.

They both looked up again as a loud cheer was heard from the house. They could see Penny hugging Kate and creasing up in laughter.

"You're a fucking lucky man, Cavill."

Henry turned to look at Callum, wondering where this praise was coming from.

"I know - I know it's no secret how I feel about Penny, but above all I'm just glad she's happy again. You make her happy. Despite your noodle arms."

Henry chuckled and nudged Callum sideways, grabbing him before he toppled over.

"Thanks mate. I never thought I'd find her, I thought I'd never find this kind of happiness. We just need to find this for you too buddy." Henry put his arm around Callum.

"I'm working on it. I'm working on it."

"Don't fanny about this time though, Life is too fucking short."

Callum nodded, sucking in his emotions as they threatened to escape.

"Come on, let's go back to the lads." As he hauled himself up and held a hand out for Henry.

Karaoke was the next segment of Penny's Hen do. Heather and Charlotte started off the proceedings with their duet of "Islands in the Stream" and Helen continued the theme with her very warbly version of "Nine to Five". Penny was quite enjoying being the sober one amidst the gaggle of loud, sozzled women. Kate decided to attempt her favourite Van Morrison tune, dedicating it to Penny, even though she had blue eyes. A few of the kids sneaked downstairs to see what all the noise was about before deciding that they preferred their video games to their mothers vocal talents.

Heather was desperate for Penny to join in, but she felt far too comfortable in her chair, and sober to be tempted. So Heather roped Marianne and Julia into a murdering of 'It's Raining Men'.

Back in the marquee Tom was back on the decks to his one loyal fan, Charlie. Reliving their Ibiza days. Henry walked straight past, spying the last sausage and grabbing for the scotch. Piers beat him too it as he flung his arm around his little brother and poured them both another drink.

"Can't believe you're finally tying the knot little brother." he shouted.

Henry nodded, and grinned. "About bloody time eh?" Henry raised his glass, "To my beautiful bride to be." he shouted as he staggered back slightly. All the men raised their drinks.

"To Penny!" they all cheered.

Tom returned to the main table where the conversation had turned to ex-girlfriends.

"Si, remember that girl you used to date with the lazy eye?" Charlie began, getting far too excited by his recollection. "whatever happened to her?"

Simon gave Charlie the death stare and raised his middle finger to his annoying younger brother.

"She broke my heart Charles, you know that you little runt."

The rest of the brothers and Colin all found this hilarious.

"What about that Spanish girl Charlie?" Simon retorted. "the one you bought a car for and she left you the week after?"

"She was Portuguese actually, and it was only a Fiat 500, not a fucking Porsche, no biggie." as he returned the middle finger gesture enthusiastically.

"What about that nice young girl that you used to court Henry? The one with the dubious family background." Colin asked, with a knowing grin already on his face.

"She was lovely, but unfortunately her brothers were the next Krays and frightened the absolute life out of me." he turned to Tom "They threatened me with castration if I dishonoured their sister!"

"Castration eh? Who would threaten such a thing?!" he winked back at Henry.

A quite lull in the conversation allowed the baseline of one of the karaoke songs to drift through the night air.

"They fucking singing in there?" Nik shouted, standing up to look outside. "Right boys, I think it's time we merge these parties, who's coming?"

"Finally!" Henry shouted, feeling glad to see his Penny again.

Helen was just starting 'Copacabana' As Charlie, Tom and Piers noisily flung open the back doors to announce their arrival.

"Someone ordered the Dreamboys Ladies?" Charlie shouted as he made a beeline for Heather with his sexiest walk.

Penny craned her neck to see the newcomers as she spotted Henry and Callum stumbling through the door together. Henry's shirt was partially unbuttoned. And what buttons were fastened were in the wrong holes. Callum was still topless as was Nik after the arm wrestling tournament.

Callum suddenly felt a little conspicuous now with several females eyes upon him.

"What the hell have you lot been up to? You all look like you've been pulled through a hedge backwards." Kate laughed as she tried to fix the mess that was her husband's hair.

Henry reached the back of the sofa and kissed Penny's forehead as she leaned back to smile at him. He then dramatically rolled over the back of the chair, narrowly missing Julia's drink.

"Woah, steady on honey." Penny added, chuckling at her lumbering man.

Henry composed himself and with a soppy smile manouvered himself to sit close up to her.

"My beautiful Pen Pen. I missed you." he smooched, lips searching for hers.

"Missed you too Yogi, did you have fun?"

"I did, I may have had a lickle too much to drink though, sorry." he pouted, looking up at Penny with puppy dog eyes.

"That's ok Hen, I don't mind. Just don't throw up on the carpet later."

"Right!!" Tom spoke loudly into the mike, making Penny jump. "All you lovely ladies have been making the sweetest of sounds, but now it's time for the men to show you all how it's done. Big man, come here and serenade your betrothed." He gestured to a reluctant Henry as Penny smiled and pushed him a little to gee him up. Everyone shouted encouragement and before long he relented and hauled himself off the sofa, slightly swaying as he finally straightened up. Tom walked over to him and ushered him back to the karaoke machine.

"So, what will it be cherub? Pick something that'll make her cry." Tom whispered into his ear.

After a bit of deliberating Henry pushed his hair out of his eyes, rotated his shoulders, and took a deep breath as the first chords began. All eyes were upon him as Penny cringed in embarrassment.

She grabbed a cushion to hide behind when she realised what he'd chosen, knowing she'd be in tears before too long.

Henry's deep baritone attempted the American screech of "Oh Lord, won't you buy me, a Mercedes Benz.." Only Penny knew the significance of this and laughed as the others looked at each other and her in mild confusion. Henry kept his gaze fixed on Penny during the whole song, enjoying her reaction. They both thought back to that bitterly cold, grey Saturday in January. Such a chance meeting. A real turning point for them both. It truly felt like fate had intervened in their lives to make their paths cross. As Henry finished the last note Penny shuffled to stand up, Henry's strong arms ready to help her as she stood and they embraced. Their tears weren't the only ones after witnessing their dedication to each other.

"Oh honey, that was beautiful." she managed to say, as Henry's broad shoulder muffled her face. Henry kept hold of her for the longest time until Charlie grabbed the mike…

----

Penny had just finished what felt like her thousandth toilet visit of the day to find Henry waiting for her outside in the corridor. A naughty look in his eyes.

"Henry."

"Penelope." he replied as he stepped towards her and swept his hands around her curves. "This dress is un-fucking-believable Pen. I've been trying so hard not to ravish you in front of our friends and family. I'm literally struggling right now." He took her hand and led it over the impressive bulge in his dress shorts.

"You're kidding right? I look like an over-stuffed sausage Hen." Penny blushed, enjoying Henry's continuous exploration of her stomach, boobs and bottom. She tilted her head back as he gently pushed her back against the door.

Henry ignored her comment, leaning forward to press his forehead against hers.

"Can we have lots of babies honey, I want to keep you like this forever." Henry breathed heavily his eyes dark with arousal.

Penny raised her eyebrows at him "Christ almighty Cavill, you're practically feral tonight. Let's just get this little Princess sorted first before we talk about any more. And then we'll see how frisky you are when there's a newborn in the house."

Again, Penny's words washed over his inebriated brain and he continued to paw at her and kiss down her neck, pulling at the neckline of her dress attempting to find her nipple.

Tom walked around the corner nonchalantly and smacked Henry on his backside.

"That's what got you into this situation you horny fuckers, move aside, I need to drain the lizard."

Penny chuckled, relieved it wasn't either of Henry's parents that caught them.

"Come on honey, let's get you some water to cool you down." Penny suggested as she ushered her big bear back towards the party and Heathers singing.

Henry was stolen away by Simon, Charlie and Colin to sing Bohemian Rhapsody whilst Penny stood stretching her back against the kitchen island, wondering whose hangover would be worse tomorrow morning.

Callum sidled up to her.

"You ok Penny?" he asked, trying his best to sound more sober than he was.

"A little achey, but enjoying the entertainment." she chuckled.

"You look amazing by the way." he mumbled, instantly regretting his compliment. His cheeks flushing with embarrassment.

Penny looked up at him, trying to judge his emotion after his unexpected praise. He looked over at the others with an unconvincing passive expression on his face.

"Thanks Callum, everyones been so sweet trying to make me feel less like a bloody whale."

"No!" he stated, louder than they both expected. "It really suits you - being - being, pregnant. You're - glowing Penny." Penny looked back up at him, to see him looking back down at her. A strange expression on his face. Penny smiled, hooking her hand around his arm and giving him a small side hug.

"I'm genuinely happy for you, you know that right?" he continued, Penny looked over to see Henry's eyes on them briefly.

"Thanks Callum. You ok?" she asked, squeezing his arm and resting one hand on his shoulder.

He nodded and smiled. His eyes glassy with tears as he drank from his beer bottle.

Penny opened her mouth again to say something, anything. But an increasingly loud squeal broke the moment as Julia and Kate (who were getting on like a house on fire) barrelled up to Penny to grab her away.

"Pen-Pen, you can't say no. They've fucking got it!" as she pulled Penny away reluctantly. She looked back as Callum smiled and shooed her away. Julia unsubtly stayed behind to seize her opportunity with the farmer.

"No, No, No. It's been too long." Penny protested, seeing what she was being dragged towards.

"Come on Pen, let's have it!" Tom encouraged as Nik and Charlie joined in.

Henry stood watching this with a befuddled expression as Marianne adorably re-buttoned his shirt for him.

"Can't chicken out now Pen, unless you're too old to be cool babes." Kate goaded.

"Fuck off Roberts, give me that mike." Penny narrowed her eyes at her bestie as she abandoned her awkwardness for the challenge.

Penny launched into her memorised and well-practised rendition of 'Alphabet Aerobics', not dropping a beat or missing a word. Most of the Cavills were agog at Penny's unexpectedly skilled rap, Charlie was bouncing around like a puppy with excitement.

"Shit the bed Penny! You were fucking amazing!" Charlie shouted, draping one arm heavily over Penny's shoulders. Henry appeared to rescue her as Charlie switched to Henry's shoulder. "Did you know about your woman's hidden talents Hank?!"

"She's a woman of many hidden talents young Chuck." Henry purred with a dramatic arched brow.

"Rap Battle it is then Penelope Green." Tom announced as Penny shook her head.

"I'm too pregnant for all of this Thomas!" she protested.

"Come on! You don't hear Dre making that fucking excuse do you?" He began to giggle, finding his own joke hilarious.

Penny relented easily and performed several more hip hop classics alongside Heather, Kate, Tom, Charlie, and even Henry.

The lyrics to 'It's Tricky' coming out of Henry's mouth were hilarious for all involved. Henry hammed it up as only actors can do and gave it his best shot. Penny genuinely thought she was going to wet herself at one point with laughter.

Eventually, the singing turned into a more chilled end to the evening of chatting, drinking, and more eating. Penny was back in her comfy spot with Henry and Kate sat on either side of her, both having their own conversations with her unborn child.

Kate leaned forward, hands cupped on the globe of Penny's stomach. "Listen up short stuff, Auntie Katie will be making such a fuss of you when you finally get here. You might have been a surprise.."

"Kate!" Penny exclaimed as Kate dismissed her with an annoyed wave of her hand

She continued "You might have been a surprise, but you will be so loved and will bring us all so much bloody happiness. Now stay in until the 10th as I have money riding on that date."

"Katie, you're incorrigible, and so bloody soppy. Love you." she reached as well as she could and pulled Kates head towards her lips.

It was Henry's turn to offer his wisdom. "Mummy's done a fabulous job of baking you, my little cupcake. Can't wait to see your pretty little face and kiss your tiny toesies. Now just keep chilling for a few more days, my little girl." He instantly held his hand over his mouth. Realising his slip up.

"A girl?!" Kate asked "A Girl!!" she then shouted as everyone's attention was caught.

Penny shot pretend daggers at a cringing Henry as their news was out. She didn't really mind, and seeing the joy it brought everyone who now knew she couldn't be angry at him.

Kisses, handshakes, and hugs came from all directions as Marianne burst into tears. "Just perfect darlings, we needed more girls. Wonderful news." she sobbed as Colin patted her back.

Penny stifled another yawn just as Henry looked around.

"Right Mama, you need to sleep, let's hit the hay."

Penny protested politely, but was more than ready for her bed after such a full on evening.

Henry grasped her hands and slowly helped her stand, he could tell she was in a reasonable amount of pain despite her smiles.

"Thank you everyone for making this such an amazing evening, I'm sorry to be such a lightweight but feel free to keep the party going!" Penny spoke as Henry held her tight.

"Thanks guys, love you all!" Henry added as he ushered Penny past several more kisses and hugs.

If Henry had been sober he would have carried Penny up the stairs seeing how uncomfortable she was. Instead, he tried his best to guide her hips forward to take some of her weight. He also couldn't resist grabbing her arse in the process too.

They poked their heads into Ben's room to see them all fast asleep and the room filled with bodies. Penny had never known so many people to be in her house overnight.

Despite his lack of coordination Henry tried to help Penny to clear away the pile of clothes on the bed, left from Penny's earlier stress. After removing her floral decorations she began to wriggle out of the dress. Unsurprisingly Henry appeared to help. Kissing her shoulders in the process.

"Hmm, Pen, you're gonna get me all worked up again honey," as they stared at each other in the floor length mirror. Both watching Penny disrobe. Henry abandoned his clothes by his feet as he stood behind Penny and watched his reflection massaging her heavy breasts and taut stomach.

"Hold that thought, Cavill. I need to pee." as she made a dash for the bathroom. After cleaning her teeth and removing her makeup she returned to the bedroom to find Henry asleep on the bed.

"Gah!" she complained, as she haughtily pushed his knee over to his side of the bed so she could enter her cave of cushions. After finally finding a reasonably comfy position Henry snorted himself awake.

"Ung, fell 'sleep" he mumbled "Sorry baby," he said, his voice muffled by his pillow. He reached his arm up and plonked it heavily onto Penny's bump.

"I noticed." Penny said with subtle annoyance, hoping to get some time alone with her bear.

Henry sat up, with one eye open. Penny chuckled at his comical expression.

"I'm awake now!" he stated with a cheeky grin. He sidled up to Penny, mirroring her pose.

"Did you have a good night honey?"

"I did indeed, although I missed you lots." he admitted coyly.

"Missed you too Yogi, even though you were only in the field."

After a moments silence Henry piped up.

"Pen. Do I….. do I look fat?" he asked sheepishly, staring down at his stomach. "I'm sorry I've let myself go lately, I'll work extra hard to get back into shape."

It took everything Penny had not to laugh at his endearing comments, but she knew how much of a sensitive subject this was.

"Henry, honey." she took his hand and squeezed it. "First off, you don't look fat, you're not fat. You can be whatever shape you want to be, whatever makes you happy. Not me, not your family, not your fans, you honey. You're so used to trying to maintain an unrealistic physique, exhausting yourself, depriving yourself, and for what? A few photos, a few moments in a movie. It's crazy. And actually unhealthy in lots of ways. This is normal honey." she rubbed his softened stomach.

"You still think I'm sexy Pen?" he asked in all seriousness.

"You're fucking kidding me right? I'm sat here like this and you're the one thinking you're fat and unsexy?!"

Penny stared at him, seeing that he was still full of doubts and insecurities.

She pulled his head towards her chest as his arm cradled her belly.

"Baby, you're such a doofus at times. Do I really need to tell you that you are the sexiest freakin' man alive?!! That all I want to do every time I see you is run my nails down your back and lick your chest."

Penny flung aside her largest pillow and with all her strength swung her leg over Henry and straddled him.

"Fuck, Pen. Steady on honey." he gasped, as his hands automatically grasped her waist. "Christ almighty" he continued as his hands roamed up and down her. She was wearing a soft cotton sleep bra and matching knickers. She rested on her side and slipped off her bottoms before sitting back over Henry again.

"Pen, oh god. This is so fucking hot. But Pen, Pen." he threw his head back onto the pillow as she grasped his cock, tugging it and then rubbing herself over it. He rutted upwards as he grasped her thick thighs, Penny supported her back as she moaned loudly in pleasure.

"Pen, stop, we can't."

Penny took Henry's hard dick and lined him with her entrance. Henry was torn, reaching out to massage her breasts. She began to slide down onto him slowly as he grasped her arms.

"No! Pen, we can't risk it." again she ignored him, lost in her passion.

"Stop!" he shouted, finally able to make her listen.

Penny looked at him in confusion and hurt. "Why?" she asked.

"The baby, Pen. What if you go into labour?"

Penny continued to sit down further onto Henry, feeling the delicious stretch. She clenched, making him throw his head back in pleasure again.

"I'm fine honey, I've got weeks until she's due."

"I just don't want to risk it before the wedding Pen Pen." He held his large paw against the side of her pouting face. "Lay back down and I will help ease your frustrations, my love."

Penny relented, pouting, feeling tired and uncomfortable now the moment was lost. But she soon perked up on feeling Henry's strong digits delving between her legs. Penny ground against his touch, needing more friction. Henry's tongue swirled noisily around Penny's nipples as he readjusted his position, kissing her as he moved. He knelt on the bed, between her legs. Smoothing his hands up along Penny's legs, hips, waist, and breasts. A greedy grin on his face. Penny clenched at his electrifying gaze. His desire and lust felt ready to explode. Unexpectedly he froze and scrunched up his face. He raised a finger.

"Hold that thought, Pen" as he leaped off the bed, hopping as one foot was wrapped in the sheets, heading for the bathroom. At first, Penny thought he was going to throw up, which would have made her feel absolutely devastated, considering where he'd just been, but the familiar sound of him peeing like a racehorse echoed from the ensuite, and a loud "Ahhh…" on top.

Penny chuckled as she waited for him to return. After some noisy hand washing and fumbling in the dark, Henry plodded back over to her, locating her feet first and climbing between her legs again.

"Right. Where were we..?"

"Actually, Hen. I'm feeling super tired again, sorry…"

"Oh.." he said, surprised by her sudden switch. "Ok, my sweetness. I'm sorry for ruining the moment."

Penny didn't disagree with him. "Just make sure our wedding night is more romantic honey," she said, sleepily. Tucking her pillows around her as she made herself comfortable.

Henry leaned over and kissed her shoulder, helping tuck another pillow behind her at the same time.

"Just you wait Penelope, Daddy's going to pull all his tricks out of the bag."

They both giggled at his bravado as Henry snuggled up behind her, smoothing his hand up and down the contours of her hip and thigh as she quickly succumbed to her sleep.

Authors Comments I hope you enjoyed the run-up to the big day. The interactions with their friends and family. I really enjoyed writing this chapter, I hope you liked reading it!! Thank you all for your continued support with this epic saga that is slowly coming to its natural end xxx

Chapter 32 coming soon...

#henry cavill fic #henry cavill #henry cavill fanfiction #henry cavill fandom #henry cavill fanfic #henry cavill rpf #henry cavill imagine #henry cavill fan fiction #henry cavill fantasy #the cavillry #henry cavill fluff #henry cavill smut #henry cavill thirst #henry cavill x reader #henry cavill x curvy ofc #henry cavill x ofc #henry cavill x pregnant reader #dad!henry #Widows pique #widows peek chapter 31

[ellethespaceunicorn]

Hi, can I ask for some Sherlock Holmes with a side of spanking and cuddles?

Title: The Paganini Problem

Rating: Mature, 18+, Minors - DNI

Pairing: Sherlock Holmes x Wife!Reader

Fandom: Enola Holmes series

Word Count: 1.3K

Summary: Being Sherlock’s wife proves to be difficult when a case stumps him. For @princessphilly, I hope this works!!

Warnings: female!masturbation, spanking, softDom!Sherlock

A/N: I listened to “24 Caprices for Solo Violin, Op. 1, MS 25: No. 24 in A Minor” while writing this, you do not have to. But it is quite good if you like violin and suspenseful music. Also, Enola correctly guesses that Paganini is Sherlock’s favorite composer in the first Enola Holmes film, so like, research! Unbeta’d, we die like people who tried their best. 

Dividers by: @firefly-graphics

Support/Reblog banner by me

Cover Art by me

My Masterlist 

The sounds of violin wafted through 221B Baker Street. You loved to hear Sherlock play most days. But, today was different. This was day three of a Paganini marathon, which could only mean one thing.

He was stumped on a case. 

A case he refused to talk to you about. No, he could only converse with his beloved violin about it. However, that’s not how you see it. No. 

Your perception? He decided to play instead of paying attention to you. Being the brat that you are, you are determined to make him regard your presence.

You don your tightest bodice and skirt, the deep sapphire one that Sherlock purchased for you as a gift when he asked you to move into Baker Street. He specifically had it tailored to your measurements, showing off your ample bosom and child-bearing hips. 

You make your way from your shared bedroom into the drawing room where Sherlock is playing. His violin is tucked between his chin and shoulder. His left hand bows at a speed that makes the messy curls on his head dance along to the music. His right hand holds the violin at the neck so delicately, it’s almost loving.

You step around several stacks of papers, narrowly missing a tower of books. You remind yourself to have that talk again with Sherlock about the difference between organization and chaos. 

You finally make it to the chair next to his music stand, his eyes never leaving the sheet music. You make sure to sit down in a way that makes a squeak that Sherlock has commented on many a time. He’s actually shown you how to sit so that said squeak does not occur. You remarked that he could just get rid of the chair, to which he replied that you can sit elsewhere if you’re going to complain.

No reaction. 

You seethe, watching as he continues with 24 Caprices. You kick over the music stand and the sheets dance gracefully to the floor.

Nothing.

He simply closes his eyes and plays from memory. He plays it perfectly, of course. Paganini is his favorite composer, after all. He would know it forward and backward.

You were growing impatient, running out of options for how to get this man’s attention. Until it hit you. The idea was just ridiculous enough to work. It would be depravity in polite society, sure. But clever enough to get him to at least acknowledge your presence. And that would be enough.

You get up from the chair and make your way over to the chaise lounge. Arranging a few pillows to rest your head upon, you then lie down and pull your skirt up enough to get to your drawers. You pull them down and toss them out of the way, Sherlock being none the wiser as he continues playing.

You let your hand wander down to your folds, already slick with the frustration of being untouched for days. You allow yourself time to tease, playing with your swollen bud before dipping lower to enter a single finger within yourself. A sigh escapes your lips as you explore your inner walls. As another finger joins the first, Sherlock’s name falls from your lips.

Sherlock’s sense of smell is what pulls him out of his hyperfocus. He smells your arousal as he hears his name in the air. In an instant, his fixation becomes all about you.

He places down his violin and bow next to the fallen music stand, not putting it right-side up. Not bothering to be quiet, as your moans now fill the room louder than his playing did, he stalks over to you and clears his throat loudly.

Your hand stills and you open one eye looking up at your husband. The look on his face of disappointment is enough to cause heat to flare behind your cheeks. Then, his face changes to that of…impatience?

“Well? Are you going to finish then? Or must I intervene?” Sherlock’s words have a bite to them, and you can’t say you’re surprised. Well, you are stunned he is offering to help.

At least you were under the impression that he is offering to help. And that is why he is the expert detective and you are...well, not.

Before you can ask for assistance, Sherlock is lifting you off the chaise and throws you over his shoulder. He takes you into the bedroom and set you down on your feet before sitting on the edge of the bed. 

He points to you and beckons you with a curved finger in a ‘come hither’ motion. You begin to sit next to him, but he blocks your path.

“I don’t believe bad girls get to sit down next to Sir. Over my knee with yourself, girl. You’re going to practice your counting. And don’t make me repeat myself.” Sherlock’s voice is stern and you involuntarily gulp before settling your middle across his lap.

Sherlock pulls up your skirt so it rests along your back and the cool air of the room produces gooseflesh along your bare bottom and legs. No sooner do you register that feeling does the first blow land. You grunt as Sherlock’s hand grazes the skin of your left cheek.

“One, Sir!” You cry out, surprised at the white-hot heat of the smack.

“Good girl,” he praises.

He raises his hand again. He waits until your ass relaxes and brings down his hand upon your right cheek. This time harder than the first.

“Two, Sir!” You shout, the sting radiating through you.

“Good girl, I think you deserve one more though,” Sherlock informs you and you nod, “Use your words, girl. Do you deserve another?”

“Yes, Sir, I deserve another,” you whimper, clenching your thighs to try and gain some sort of friction.

“I wholeheartedly agree, my dear,” he laughs, punctuating his sentiment with one last swat to your left cheek.

“Three, Sir!” You gasp, clutching onto Sherlock’s pant leg as his hand finds its way between your legs to find you soaked.

“That’s my good girl, look how soaked you are for me. I bet you’re right on the edge. All you need is one…last…push,” Sherlock plunges two fingers into your sodden cunt and expertly finds your inner bundle of nerves. He massages it while praising you for taking your punishment so well. “You’ve been so good for me, my love. You take all the attention you need, girl.”

Before long, you are clenching around Sherlock’s fingers and he is working you through your orgasm with his skilled fingers. You send thanks to the heavens for marrying a man who understands the female anatomy. 

As you come down, Sherlock pulls down your skirt. He pulls a pillow from the bed for you to sit on as he turns you around in his lap. He kisses your forehead and presses your head down to lean on his shoulder, resting his head upon yours. 

“Now, my dear little one. Care to explain what that little show was for?” His voice is calm as his arms wrap around you, holding you flush to him as he rocks a bit back and forth.

“I hate it when you’re stuck on a case, you don’t pay any attention to your wife, my love,” You don’t attempt to hide the sorrow in your voice.

“You’re so right. I’ve neglected my dearest. She even had to turn to her own ministrations in the wake of my absence,” he pulls back and looks down at you, holding your chin between his thumb and forefinger, “As frustrating as a case may be, it is no excuse to ignore you. I promise you, my love, it will not happen again. You have my word.”

“Thank you, Sherlock,” you twirl your finger around a curl of his hair and watch it spring back, “I love you.”

“And I love you, dear one. Now, shall we solve this case, Mrs. Holmes?”

“That we shall, Mr. Holmes.”

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[msilwrites]

Sequel to: ASCENT - Defying Desire (ODD WOMEN Series) a 3AM update - SEVEN

A/N: In this chapter, we explore Henry's remarkable capabilities as a shrewd strategic executive and master manipulator.  Henry's effectiveness in achieving his goals is undeniable.  However, as the story unfolds, we also witness a satisfying wave of regret and realization washing over Henry.

Defying Desire

SEVEN

In a posh townhouse nestled within the city's bustling streets, Henry found himself lost in a sea of thoughts. The sleek and masculine interior of his abode mirrored his refined taste and style. With a glass of whisky in hand, he lounged in a plush chair, his mind consumed by memories of Sage. Regret weighed heavily on him as he replayed their past together. He had made a big mistake by ending their relationship, and now he longed to make things right.

The room was dimly lit, casting shadows across his face as he took a sip of the amber liquid. Thoughts of Sage overwhelmed him, igniting a fire in his heart. He couldn't help but recall the passion they once shared, longing to feel her touch and reconnect with her on a deep level.

Although the board members were impressed by his strategic partnership with the app, it was Sage who held the key to his happiness. The business stuff seemed less important compared to the prospect of having her back in his life.

Lost in his thoughts, Henry grew more determined. He knew pursuing a former lover who had blocked all communication was risky, but it only fueled his desire to win Sage back. It became a challenge, a chance to prove that their love was worth fighting for.

In his mind, he pictured their reunion—a spark of electric chemistry reigniting between them. Every touch and whispered word would carry the weight of their shared history. Henry yearned to apologize for the past, to show Sage how much he regretted his actions and convince her that he had truly changed.

As the whisky burned his throat, matching the fire inside him, Henry realized he had to tread carefully. He couldn't just rush back into Sage's life; he had to find a way to break through her barriers.

The strategic partnership with the app offered him an opportunity to reach out to Sage, to discuss the collaboration and the impact it could have on their lives. Ideas swirled in Henry's mind on how to subtly reconnect, to show Sage that his feelings were still strong.

With determination, he set his glass down and stood up. Walking towards the window, he admired the twinkling city lights. A steely resolve emanated from him as he silently promised himself to make things right. He would find a way to win back Sage's trust and reignite their once-burning flame.

Late into the night, Henry's excitement grew. The strategic partnership had opened a door, and now he had to face the challenges ahead. Every passing moment fueled his determination to execute his plan flawlessly and prove to Sage that their love was worth any risk or sacrifice.

In the solitude of his luxurious townhouse, Henry felt a renewed sense of purpose. The whisky coursing through his veins emboldened him, driving his pursuit of his desires. The calculated move he made during the board meeting went beyond business—it was a way to bring Sage back into his arms, where she truly belonged.

----------

Kieran sat across from Sage in the cozy afternoon lounge, their teacups steaming gently on the table. The delightful aroma of freshly baked desserts, coffee, and tea filled the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The red brick walls and brown wooden accents gave the place a touch of dark academia aesthetic, adding to its charm.

As Kieran recounted the events of the boardroom meeting, Sage listened attentively. She had already shared with him the fact that Henry was her ex-boyfriend, so Kieran was familiar with their history. Their friendship and collaboration had allowed for open and honest conversations between them.

Sage's eyes met Kieran's, a mix of curiosity and concern reflecting in her gaze. She knew the potential conflict of interest arising from Kieran acquiring her app for his own company while also being associated with the Havel Group as a non-executive director. The situation had taken an unexpected turn with Henry's objection and proposal to buy the app or form a partnership.

Setting her teacup down gently on the table, Sage leaned forward, her voice filled with a blend of sincerity and determination. "Kieran, I never expected this to become so complicated. I appreciate your support in acquiring my app, but I also understand the concerns raised by Henry and the board."

Sage leaned forward, her eyes fixed on Kieran's, her voice filled with urgency. "Kieran, please, if there's any way you can ensure that the app doesn't end up in Henry's possession, I would be forever grateful. I have a suspicion that he's trying to use this as a way to force me to communicate with him again, and I can't allow that to happen. I've blocked him from all my channels for a reason, and I want to maintain my distance. I know it might sound presumptuous, but I've known Henry for a long time, and I can't shake the feeling that he's trying to manipulate the situation to his advantage."

Kieran nodded, understanding the gravity of Sage's words. "Sage, I trust your instincts, and I know you have a deep understanding of Henry's character. We shouldn't underestimate his determination and the lengths he might go to achieve his goals. Rest assured, I'll do everything in my power to keep the app out of his hands and protect you from any unwanted interactions.”

Sage's shoulders relaxed, a sense of relief washing over her. She appreciated Kieran's support and belief in her judgment. "Thank you, Kieran. It means a lot to have someone who understands and stands by me."

----------

As Kieran's Rolls Royce pulled up in front of the office building at Canary Wharf, Sage's attention shifted from the familiar surroundings to the task at hand. Stepping out of the car with purpose, she strode alongside Kieran towards the elevator, her mind focused on the upcoming boardroom meeting.

Navigating the bustling lobby with ease, Sage's determination propelled her forward. She had been to this building before, familiar with its polished halls and bustling energy. Canary Wharf was not uncharted territory for her.

Entering the elevator, Sage exchanged a knowing glance with Kieran, their shared determination palpable. They had meticulously prepared for this moment, ensuring their presentation was strong and persuasive. The ride up to the designated floor was filled with a sense of anticipation, their focus honed on making a compelling case.

As the elevator doors opened, Sage was greeted by Simon, Henry's older brother and the leader of the Havel Group. A warm smile spread across Simon's face as he approached her, enveloping her in a genuine hug. "Sage, it's so good to see you. How have you been?" he asked, a touch of surprise in his voice. "I didn't realize you were behind this app until today"

Sage returned the hug, appreciating the warmth and genuine concern from Henry's brother. "Thank you, Simon," she replied with a soft smile. "I've been well”

As they walked down the corridor towards the boardroom, Simon expressed his eagerness to hear Sage's explanation about the app. He emphasized the importance of her addressing the board directly to ensure a clear understanding of the app's purpose and its compatibility with the Havel Group's businesses.

Entering the boardroom, Sage took her seat at the table, surrounded by the familiar faces of the board members. Among them were Henry's brothers, who held executive positions within the Havel Group. As she looked around, she noticed their smiles of recognition, accompanied by a warmth that conveyed a sense of familiarity and fondness.

Sage met their gazes, returning their smiles with a nod of acknowledgement. Despite the complexities of her past with Henry, it seemed that his brothers still held a level of respect and appreciation for her. It was a reassuring reminder that she had made a positive impression on them during her time with Henry.

With unwavering conviction, Sage highlighted the app's potential to revolutionize the industry and create new opportunities for growth. She stressed that by allowing Kieran's company to maintain ownership and control over the app, it would be able to flourish independently, fostering innovation and agility.

Furthermore, Sage outlined the potential risks and challenges that could arise from integrating the app into the Havel Group. She emphasized the importance of preserving the app's brand identity and user experience, which could be compromised if it became just another division of the conglomerate.

Drawing upon her own experiences as the app's creator and the deep understanding she had gained from working closely with Kieran, Sage eloquently expressed her belief that the best path forward was to allow Kieran's company to continue nurturing and developing the app independently. She emphasized that this would ensure the app's continued success and allow it to reach its full potential.

As Sage concluded her presentation, there was a moment of contemplative silence in the boardroom. The board members exchanged glances, processing the weight of Sage's arguments. Her passion and persuasive delivery had made an impact, causing them to rethink the initial assumption of absorbing the app into the Havel Group.

Henry's voice broke the silence, his tone brimming with confidence. "I understand Sage's concerns, but I believe we should view this app as an incredible asset for the Havel Group," he proclaimed, capturing the attention of the board members.

Henry proceeded to outline his vision for incorporating the app into the company, highlighting the potential benefits it could bring. He argued that by embracing the app's community platform, the Havel Group could expand its offerings, attract new customers, and enhance its overall retail experience.

Sage's heart sank as she listened to Henry's counterarguments. She knew that her app was not meant to compete with the Havel Group's existing retail business. It served as a platform for individuals to buy and sell a wide range of items and services, catering to a different market segment altogether.

Summoning her courage, Sage raised her hand, signaling her desire to respond. All eyes turned back to her, awaiting her rebuttal.

"Sage," Henry interjected, his voice laced with concern and authority, "I appreciate your dedication to the app, but I genuinely believe that it can thrive within the Havel Group. We can leverage our brand reputation and resources to take it to new heights."

Sage locked eyes with Henry, firm in her convictions. "Henry, I understand your perspective, but it's important to recognize that my app doesn't pose a direct threat to the Havel Group's retail business. It operates in a different space, empowering individuals to engage in peer-to-peer transactions and services."

She continued, eloquently explaining the potential risks of integrating the app into the Havel Group. "By aligning the app with a luxury-focused brand, we run the risk of diluting its unique identity. Users value the app for its inclusive nature and its ability to cater to a wide range of needs and budgets. Merging it with the Havel Group could compromise that appeal."

Sage went on to emphasize the importance of maintaining the app's independent image and allowing it to grow organically within its own niche. She painted a vivid picture of how integration could blur its purpose and alienate its loyal user base.

As Sage finished speaking, a charged silence filled the boardroom. The board members exchanged contemplative glances, grappling with the decision at hand. They now had to weigh the allure of Henry's proposal against Sage's compelling arguments for preserving the app's integrity and unique market positioning

The boardroom fell into a hushed pause as the members took a break to deliberate on the weighty decision before them. Sensing the tension in the room, Kieran rose from his seat, gesturing for Sage to join him outside. They stepped out into the hallway, the sound of their footsteps echoing softly.

Sage looked at Kieran, a mix of hope and concern in her eyes. "Kieran, if the board decides to go with the Havel Group, is there any way you can ensure that the app doesn't end up in Henry's hands? I know we have a partnership on the table, but I worry about the consequences if he gains control over it. As a non-executive director, do you have the power or influence to prevent that? Also, I mentioned before, I have a suspicion that he's using this situation to manipulate me into communicating with him again, and I can't allow that to happen. I've blocked him from all my channels for a reason, and I want to maintain my distance."

He took a reassuring step closer, his voice filled with determination. "I get it, Sage. I'll do everything I can to prevent the app from falling into Henry's hands. I may not have full control, but I'll use my influence and connections to find a solution. You won't be forced into any unwanted communication. I'll prioritize your well-being and protect the app's vision."

Sage felt relieved, a small smile forming on her face. "Thank you, Kieran. I trust you to do your best. Let's present our case with strength, and no matter what happens, we'll find a way to keep the app with someone who respects its purpose and my boundaries."

Encouraged by their shared determination, they returned to the boardroom, ready to make their final stand.

----------

As the discussion resumed, the board members deliberated on the future of the app. After careful consideration, they reached a consensus—the Havel Group would acquire the app from Kieran at a substantial price as compensation for his company's efforts and resources invested in its development.

Sage listened to the decision, her heart pounding with mixed emotions. On one hand, she was relieved that the app would not fall into Henry's hands, ensuring her continued distance from him. However, as she contemplated the outcome, a tinge of sadness washed over her. It wasn't the prospect of parting ways with the app itself that saddened her, but rather the possibility of not working closely with Kieran in integrating the app with his company.

Over time, Sage had formed a strong bond with Kieran, appreciating his dedication, support, and shared vision for the app. They had become a formidable team, and the idea of not collaborating further with him felt like a missed opportunity. Their partnership had propelled the app's success, and the thought of not continuing that journey together left a void in her heart.

As she processed these emotions, Sage reminded herself of the bigger picture. The decision to join forces with the Havel Group brought numerous advantages and opportunities for growth. She understood that this collaboration would open doors to new resources, expertise, and a larger user base. It was a chance to take the app to new heights and make an even greater impact.

Still, she couldn't help but feel a sense of loss mingled with anticipation. It was a bittersweet realization that change was inevitable, and that she would have to adapt to a new dynamic. But deep down, Sage held onto the hope that her journey with Kieran and the app was merely taking a different path—one that would lead to even greater achievements and fulfillment.

Kieran turned to Sage, his expression a mix of understanding and resolve. Sensing the weight of the decision, he guided her to a quiet corner of the boardroom, away from the prying eyes and eager voices.

"Sage," Kieran began, his tone gentle yet resolute, "they've agreed to buy the app from me at a high price. It's a significant compensation, and it ensures that the app won't be under Henry's control. I believe this is the best course of action to protect your boundaries and the app's integrity. What do you think?"

Sage looked into Kieran's eyes, appreciating his concern and the trust he had placed in her. Her mind raced with thoughts and emotions, torn between holding onto something she had poured her heart into and the need to protect herself from Henry's influence.

Taking a deep breath, she closed her eyes for a moment, gathering her thoughts. When she opened them, a sense of clarity washed over her. She knew deep down that Kieran's proposal was the practical and wise choice.

"Kieran," Sage said, her voice steady, "If you believe this is the best way forward, then I trust your judgment. Let's proceed with the sale and ensure that the app continues to thrive under new ownership. I understand the importance of protecting myself and the app's integrity."

Kieran nodded, a hint of relief in his eyes. and then he took her hand in his, offering a reassuring squeeze.  "Sage, I want to reiterate my promise to you. I will go above and beyond to protect you from any unwanted interactions with Henry," he declared, his voice filled with resolve. "I understand how important maintaining your boundaries is, and I'll do everything within my power to ensure your safety and well-being." 

Sage felt a rush of gratitude and relief wash over her, knowing that Kieran was resolute in his pledge to shield her from any discomfort. She appreciated his genuine concern and the weight of his words, knowing that he truly had her best interests at heart.

A small smile tugged at the corners of Sage's lips as she met Kieran's gaze, her eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and trust. "Thank you, Kieran," she replied, her voice soft yet filled with appreciation.

Returning to the boardroom, Kieran and Sage took their seats, their minds still processing the weight of the decision that had just been made. The air was filled with anticipation as Simon Havel, the chairman of the Havel Group, stood up once again, commanding everyone's attention.

"Ladies and gentlemen," Simon began, his voice commanding yet filled with warmth, "I want to express my gratitude to Kieran and Sage for their willingness to work with us on this matter. We recognize the value of the app and the expertise that Sage brings to the table."

He turned his gaze towards Sage, his eyes conveying a sense of respect and admiration. "Sage, we would like to offer you a position as a consultant, working closely with a team from the Havel Group. Your role will be crucial in ensuring a seamless transition as the app is integrated into our operations."

Simon paused for a moment, allowing his words to sink in. "Rest assured, Sage, you will be compensated generously for your contributions, both as the app's designer and developer, and as a valuable consultant during this process. Your expertise and insights will be invaluable in ensuring the success of the app within the Havel Group."

Sage listened intently, a mix of emotions swirling within her. The opportunity to continue working with the app, even in a different capacity, excited her. It meant she could still contribute to its growth and see her creation flourish. At the same time, she felt a sense of validation in being recognized for her skills and expertise.

She glanced at Kieran, a silent acknowledgement passing between them. This was the best outcome they could have hoped for—a way to protect the app's integrity and her own boundaries while still staying involved in its journey.

With a renewed sense of purpose, Sage turned her attention back to Simon. "Thank you, Simon. I appreciate the offer and the opportunity to continue working with the app. I’ll do my very best to ensure a smooth transition, and support the apps integration into Havel group"

Simon nodded, a smile playing on his lips. "Excellent. We look forward to having you on board, Sage. Let's work together to make this a mutually beneficial partnership."

As the meeting continued, discussions shifted towards the logistical aspects of the app's transfer and the collaborative efforts that would be required to integrate it successfully. 

As the discussions in the boardroom delved into the intricate details of the app's transfer, Henry's mind churned with a mix of ambition and determination. A cunning smile played at the corners of his lips, a telltale sign of the strategizing taking place within.

His gaze repeatedly drifted towards Sage, an unmistakable glint of longing and mischief hidden behind his eyes. Unbeknownst to Sage, Henry couldn't help but steal glances, his mind silently concocting plans on how to once again bring the project under his control.

While the room buzzed with logistical considerations, Henry's attention remained fixated on Sage. Memories of their shared past danced at the edges of his consciousness, fueling his desire to reconnect with her on both a personal and professional level.

However, as the discussion continued, Henry knew he had to bide his time. The Havel Group's acquisition of the app had set the stage for his eventual involvement, but he had to tread carefully to win back Sage's trust. He understood the importance of patience and subtlety, realizing that rushing in would only risk pushing her further away.

And so, with a mask of professionalism and a heart brimming with hidden intentions, Henry kept his glances fleeting, concealing his true motives for now. The allure of Sage and the potential of reclaiming the project were challenges he relished, and he was determined to seize the opportunity when the time was right.

Unbeknownst to Sage, a subtle dance of calculated maneuvers had begun, as Henry plotted his next move in the intricate game of winning her back.

Careful not to reveal his true intentions, Henry maintained a facade of cooperation and enthusiasm during the discussions. He skillfully inserted comments and suggestions that subtly positioned him as the ideal candidate to oversee the app's integration. His past accomplishments within the Havel Group and his familiarity with its operations served as a compelling argument for why he should take charge.

In private, Henry planned further, contemplating the steps necessary to win over the key decision-makers. He identified the individuals whose support he needed and crafted tailored approaches to sway them to his side. With every move, he carefully maneuvered, weaving a web of influence and manipulation to ensure that the app would fall into his hands.

--------

After the initial board meeting, Kieran and Simon Havel quickly arranged another meeting to introduce Aria Hayes as the new director for the app project. Two days later, everyone gathered in the boardroom, feeling a mix of anticipation and curiosity.

Simon Havel entered the room with a confident stride, followed closely by a poised and determined Aria Hayes. Sage's eyes met Aria's, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of reassurance and respect emanating from the new director.

"Thank you all for joining us today," Simon began, his voice carrying a tone of significance. "As we discussed in our previous meeting, we have appointed Aria Hayes to oversee the app project. Aria brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this role, and we believe she is the ideal candidate to guide the project forward."

Aria smiled at the team, her eyes filled with determination. "Hey, everyone! I'm really excited to be here. I've seen what you've accomplished so far, and I can't wait to work with all of you to take this app to the next level."

Kieran stepped forward, his voice filled with enthusiasm. "I've had the pleasure of working with Aria before, and let me tell you, she's a good manager. With her in charge, you’re in good hands."

Sage felt a wave of relief. She spoke up, her voice genuine and appreciative. "Thank you, Aria. It means a lot to have you on board. I'm confident that together, we'll make this app a huge success."

With the introductions done, the team left the boardroom, feeling motivated. Unbeknownst to them, Henry had been silently observing, waiting for his moment to make his move.

----------

Under Aria's capable leadership, the team meetings and integration of the app progressed smoothly. Her management style impressed the team, earning their respect and trust. They worked together seamlessly, addressing any challenges that arose.

Sage, still involved in the project's integration, visited the office twice a week to ensure everything was on track and manage her part. The team collaborated closely, discussing and implementing new features and upgrades that would enhance the app's value for the next update.

One evening, the team decided to have a casual dinner at the office. They ordered takeout and gathered around a long table, enjoying the meal together. Laughter filled the room as they shared stories and celebrated their progress. The camaraderie among the team members was evident, fostering a positive and supportive work environment.

Unbeknownst to them, Henry, driven by his own hidden agenda, had been covertly observing their interactions. From a distance, he watched as they enjoyed their dinner, unaware of the plans he was formulating in the shadows. His gaze lingered on Sage, his mind filled with manipulative schemes to disrupt and seize control of the project.

----------

As Sage gathered the empty takeout containers into a trash bag, she realized she was the last one left in the meeting room. Aria had been called for an urgent online meeting and had hurriedly left, not noticing the time. The rest of the team had promised to take turns cleaning up, but Sage insisted it was no trouble and encouraged Aria to attend her meeting.

Carrying the bag of trash, Sage made her way towards the pantry. The office was now eerily quiet, with only a few executives scattered about, engrossed in their work. Unbeknownst to her, Henry was among them, lurking in the shadows, waiting for an opportunity to make his move.

As Sage entered the pantry, she was momentarily startled to find Henry standing there, seemingly by chance. A sense of unease washed over her, but she maintained her composure, reminding herself to stay vigilant. She had learned to trust her instincts when it came to Henry's intentions.

"Henry," Sage greeted him with a polite nod, keeping a safe distance. "What brings you here?"

Henry took a sip from his tea cup, a sly smile playing on his lips. "Ah, Sage, my dear. I work here, remember?" he replied with a hint of playfulness in his voice.

Sage raised an eyebrow, not easily swayed by his charm. "Yes, Henry, I'm aware of that. I meant, what specifically brings you to the pantry at this moment?"

Henry chuckled, a twinkle in his eyes. "Well, Sage, it's a rather revolutionary concept I discovered. They call it 'taking a break.' A remarkable practice that involves momentarily escaping the clutches of work to indulge in some tea and solitude."

Sage arched an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "Tea in the pantry, Henry? That's an interesting choice."

Henry leaned against the pantry shelves, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Ah, the pantry, the perfect spot for a break! It's where we escape from work for a moment, sip some tea, and grab a snack. You see, Sage, that's what the pantry is all about."

Sage chuckled, realizing the straightforwardness of Henry's response. "You're right, Henry. The pantry is meant for taking a breather and enjoying a refreshment."

Henry raised his tea cup, emphasizing his point. "Exactly! It's a place of respite where tea and snacks become our allies against stress. So, here I am, embracing the true purpose of the pantry."

Sage nodded, a smile on her face. "Well, in that case, I won't disturb your break any longer. Enjoy your time in the pantry, Henry."

Henry smirked, taking another sip of his tea. "Thank you, Sage. And remember, when you need a break, the pantry is always waiting for you.”

With a nod and a friendly smile, Sage left the pantry, amused by Henry's direct reminder of the pantry's true purpose as a space for snacks and taking breaks.

----------

After a long and exhausting day at work, Sage decides to treat herself to a well-deserved drink at a nearby upscale bar. She enters the establishment, appreciating the sophisticated ambiance and cozy atmosphere. She finds a comfortable booth and settles in, ordering a refreshing Magners cider and a couple of light beers, including a Stella Artois.

As she sips her drink, her mind drifts to thoughts of her work progress and the desire to eventually move on from the Havel Group. Lost in her contemplation, Sage is suddenly pulled out of her reverie by the appearance of Henry, who takes a seat across from her at the booth. She looks up, her expression shifting to one of cautious defensiveness.

Her guard up, Sage questions Henry's presence. "What are you doing here, Henry?" she asks, a touch of suspicion lacing her words.

Henry leans back, a casual smile on his face. "Ah, Sage, what a delightful surprise. Just enjoying my usual haunt, as it happens to be nearby," he replies, his tone laced with nonchalance.

Sage's eyes narrow slightly, not fully convinced by his explanation. "Your usual haunt, huh? Funny how we seem to keep running into each other."

Henry raises an eyebrow, his expression shifting to a more matter-of-fact demeanor. "Yes, Sage, quite intriguing indeed. You see, this particular establishment happens to be the nearest pub to our workplace. It's merely a matter of proximity and practicality."

Sage's mind acknowledges the sense in Henry's explanation, but a hint of doubt still lingers. She can't help but feel there may be more to his presence than mere coincidence. The way he effortlessly rationalizes it leaves her speechless.

As Sage takes a sip from her pint, contemplating her next move, Henry suddenly reaches out to grab her car keys from the table. Startled, Sage looks at him questioningly.

"What do you think you're doing?" she asks, her tone tinged with both surprise and suspicion.

Henry shrugs, a mischievous smile forming on his lips. "I can't let you drink and drive, can I? Safety first, Sage."

Sage chuckles, a hint of sarcasm in her voice. "Oh, how thoughtful of you, Henry. But let me remind you that you're here to enjoy your evening, not play the responsible driver."

Henry's smile widens, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "Ah, you've got me there. I suppose I haven't started drinking yet. But don't worry, I'll hold onto your car keys just in case."

Sage stares at him for a moment, a mix of amusement and disbelief crossing her face. "Fine, if it makes you feel better. You can have my car keys. Just promise not to drive my car into any mischief, Henry."

Henry raises his hand, as if taking an oath. "I solemnly swear not to drive your car into any mischief, Sage. Your keys are safe with me."

With a smile and a shake of her head, Sage finishes her pint in one go and stands up. "Well, in that case, enjoy your evening, Henry. Don't get into too much trouble."

Henry grins, holding up Sage's car keys triumphantly. "No promises, Sage. Have a good night!"

As Sage walks away, she can't help but chuckle at the absurdity of the situation. Henry's playful antics always manage to catch her off guard.

Inside the pub, Henry watches Sage through the window glass, expecting her to put up a fight for her car keys. However, to his surprise, she doesn't. Instead, she calmly walks away, leaving him puzzled.

Curiosity gets the better of him as he continues to observe her. His eyes widen in disbelief when he sees Sage walk to her car and retrieve a spare set of keys from her bag. She effortlessly unlocks the car, and a realization dawns upon Henry. His assumption was correct all along.

A surge of urgency fills Henry as he realizes he needs to act quickly. He springs into action, his mind racing to catch up with the situation unfolding before him. He rushes out of the pub, determined to catch up with Sage before she drives away.

From the corner of her eye, Sage notices Henry's hurried departure from the pub. A mischievous smile tugs at the corners of her lips as she believes she has outsmarted him. With a sense of satisfaction, she locks the car doors using the interior locking mechanism and starts the engine, ready to drive off.

As Henry reaches the car, he notices Sage's smile and her deliberate ignorance of his presence. Undeterred, he knocks on the window, gesturing for her to open the door. Sage maintains her playful demeanor, continuing to smile and pretending not to hear him.

Little does Sage know, she has forgotten one crucial detail. Henry holds her other set of car keys in his hand. With a smirk on his face, he presses the unlock button on the key, sending a signal to Sage's car. To her surprise, she hears the familiar sound of the car doors unlocking.

Her triumphant expression quickly fades into a sigh of defeat as Henry opens the passenger door and smoothly slides into the passenger seat. Sage glances at him, a mixture of annoyance and amusement in her eyes. It seems her attempt to outmaneuver him has once again fallen short. Sage lets out a sigh, a mix of exasperation and amusement. "You always find a way, don't you, Henry?"

Sage lets out a tired sigh, leaning against her steering wheel as she looks at Henry, who is sitting comfortably in the passenger seat with a mischievous grin on his face. She raises an eyebrow and asks, "Alright, Henry, what do you want now?"

Henry's playful expression softens, replaced by a more serious demeanor. "Sage, all I want is for you to be safe. You've had a few pints, and it's not a good idea to drive in that state. Let me give you a ride home."

Sage lets out another sigh, her voice tinged with frustration. "Henry, if I were to give you what you want, sleep with you? would you finally leave me alone? Is that all this is about?"

Henry's expression turns somber as he registers her words, a mixture of hurt and longing in his eyes. "Sage, it's not just about that. I know I've made mistakes, but I want more than just a physical connection with you. I want you back in my life, not just as a passing flame , but to rebuild what we had. I want you back in every way possible."

Sage's chuckle escapes her lips, laced with a mixture of bitterness and understanding. She looks directly into Henry's eyes, her gaze unwavering. "You know, Henry, when I visited Thailand a few weeks back, I went to the temple to meet with an old sixth form classmate who was serving as a monk at that time. In the serene halls of a temple, he shared profound wisdom with me."

Henry leans in closer, captivated by Sage's story and the depth of her emotions.

Sage's voice quivers with a newfound clarity, the weight of her words hanging heavily in the air. "He told me something that struck me to my core, Henry. He said, 'Before you tear yourself apart, take a piercing look at those you choose to keep close.' And in that moment, the truth unfolded before me like a devastating revelation. Henry... in that moment, I realized that you were a significant part of the pain and insecurity I experienced."

Henry's face pales as the impact of Sage's words hits him with full force. The realization dawns on him, a crushing weight settling upon his shoulders. He reaches out, his voice choked with regret. "Sage, I never meant to be the source of your pain. I never wanted to be the cause of your insecurity."

Sage's eyes glisten with unshed tears, a mix of sadness and resignation etched across her face. "But you were, Henry. You were the one who held the power to shatter my confidence and break my spirit.”  She pauses, her gaze piercing through him. " Yes you never cheated on me, but you tried to mold me into what you wanted, Henry. And when I refused to yield, you resorted to manipulative tactics to get me to do your bidding. You enjoyed making me jealous, playing with my emotions. And I can't bear to be caught in that web of uncertainty any longer. "

Her words hang in the air, the weight of truth finally spoken. Sage waits, hoping that her words will finally penetrate the layers of Henry's self-serving facade and make him realize the impact of his actions.

Henry's eyes widen as the weight of his actions sinks in. His lips part, searching for the right words to defend himself, but they fail him. He realizes now the damage he has caused, the pain he has inflicted, not through physical betrayal, but through emotional manipulation.

"I never meant for it to go this far, Sage," Henry finally manages to whisper, his voice laced with regret. "I thought I could keep you close by doing what I do, but I do see now how misguided and hurtful it was."

Sage's eyes shimmer with a mix of sadness and frustration. "Henry, love should never be a game. It should never be about making someone feel inadequate or insecure. It should be about trust, respect, and building each other up. I deserve better than this constant cycle of manipulation."

In that moment, the realization of their toxic dance settles upon them, a bittersweet recognition that they can no longer continue down this destructive path.

Sage's voice quivers as she takes a deep breath, her emotions palpable. "Henry... I've let you go, just like you wanted before. It's time for you to do the same for me." Her words hang in the air, heavy with finality and a tinge of sadness.

Henry's heart sinks at the realization of his own role in their breakup. The memory of that conversation, when he asked for the separation and suggested they explore other possibilities, resurfaces with a pang of regret. He never anticipated the depth of his feelings and the void that would consume him in her absence.

Henry's heart sinks at the thought of losing her. Memories of their shared adventures, the moments of joy and connection they once had flood his mind. He remembers the worry that consumed him when she embarked on her dangerous expedition to the summit of Mount Everest, how he yearned for her safety and well-being. The months without her presence, her deliberate blocking of him in every channel, had been excruciatingly difficult.

He buried himself in work, trying to distract himself from the void she left behind. He sought solace in the allure of freedom, parties, and the temporary flings with other women. But as time passed, the emptiness grew, and he realized that he couldn't let her go. Not without a fight.

Henry's voice cracks as he tries to articulate the depth of his regret. " I... I never expected it to be like this. I never realized how much I would miss you, how much I need you in my life. Please, give me another chance. I've learned my lesson in the hardest way possible. I've come to realize that I never wanted anyone else. It's always been you, even when I couldn't see it clearly. Please, don't give up on us just yet."

Sage gazes at him, torn between the pain of the past and the lingering love she still holds for him. She sees the sincerity in his eyes, the genuine remorse etched on his face. A part of her yearns to believe in the possibility of redemption and growth.

But another part of her fears the cycle repeating, the old patterns resurfacing. She takes a moment to collect herself, her voice soft but resolute. "Henry, I appreciate your honesty and the growth you've shown in recognizing your mistakes. But love is not just about the depth of feelings; it's about compatibility, trust, and mutual respect. The patterns that emerged in our relationship showed me that our needs and desires were not aligning. I don't need you to change who you are, but I do need a relationship that fulfills me in the ways I deserve."

She pauses, searching for the right words to convey her innermost sentiments. "I felt used, like a toy being played with, manipulated to fulfill your desires. And love should never make one feel that way. I don't want to resent you or view you as an enemy. Instead, I want to find a way to love you from afar, to wish you all the best, and to move forward in my own journey without holding onto the pain and resentment that clouded our relationship."

"Henry, I do care about you, and a part of me will always cherish what we shared. But I also know that I deserve a love that uplifts me and allows me to be my authentic self. And I hope you can find the same for yourself."

Henry's world shatters as Sage's words sink in. He realizes, with a heavy heart, that he has been madly in love with her all this time, but it's a realization that comes too late. The depth of his feelings for her hits him like a wave of regret, and he can't bear the thought of a life without her.

His voice quivers as he bares his soul, "Sage, I have to confess... I've been in love with you all along. Losing you has made me see how much I truly need you in my life."

His eyes glisten with unshed tears as he continues, his voice filled with raw vulnerability,  "I can't change what has happened, and I can't undo the mistakes I've made. But if you can find it in your heart to give us another chance, I promise to spend every moment making it right. "

Henry leans in closer, his voice barely above a whisper, "I know I messed up, and I can't guarantee that I won't stumble again. But if you're willing, I'll love you with everything I have. I'll be devoted to you, I -” 

Sage's looks away, heart aches as she witnesses the raw vulnerability in Henry's words and expression. Part of her longs to give in, to believe in the possibility of a renewed love. But her obstinacy remains resolute, a shield protecting her wounded heart.

She avoids meeting his gaze, her eyes fixed on the unmoving scenery outside the car. The weight of silence fills the space between them, the unspoken  tension hanging heavy in the air. Sage takes a deep breath, gathering her strength.

"Henry," she says softly, her voice tinged with a mix of sadness and determination,  "Could please return my spare car keys," Without another word, Sage extends her hand, silently asking for her car keys back.

Henry's face falls, a mixture of resignation and heartache evident in his eyes. He reluctantly retrieves the spare car keys from his pocket, placing them in her outstretched hand. Their fingers brush briefly, a lingering touch that carries a world of unsaid emotions.

"Sage," Henry says, his voice filled with genuine worry, "I can't let you drive in this state. It's not safe. Let me take you home."

Sage chuckles weakly, shaking her head. "Have I not made myself clear, Henry? I appreciate your concern, but I'll manage. Please respect my decision."

Understanding dawns in Henry's eyes as he recognizes the importance of honoring her wishes. Reluctantly, he retracts the spare car keys, realizing that pushing her further would only cause more harm. He reaches for his phone instead.

"I may not have given up, Sage," Henry says quietly, his voice filled with a mix of determination and concern, "but what matters most to me right now is your safety. I'll call my personal chauffeur to drive you home in your car. Please accept this gesture, for your own well-being."

Sage looks at him, her expression softened by his genuine care. After a brief moment of consideration, she nods in agreement. Henry swiftly makes the call,  providing the necessary instructions to his chauffeur, and within minutes, his chauffeur arrives.

As the chauffeur approaches, Henry and Sage gets out her car. He opens the door of the passenger seat behind for her, a small gesture of care, and motioned for her to take the passenger seat in the back. Without a word, Sage gets in, her gaze fixed straight ahead.

Henry's heart breaks as he watches her retreat into the car, knowing that he must let her go for now. However, a flicker of hope remains within him, refusing to extinguish. He hasn't given up yet. As the chauffeur takes his position in the driver's seat and starts the engine, Henry's eyes meet Sage's.

Henry leans in, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder, his voice laced with unspoken longing. "Please take care, Sage," Henry says softly, his eyes locked with hers,

Sage offers him a faint smile, a mix of gratitude and sadness. "Thank you, Henry," she says, her voice filled with a touch of vulnerability. "I appreciate your concern."

Henry watches, his heart heavy with emotions, as the car begins to pull away. His gaze lingers on Sage until her car disappears into the distance. 

A/N: In this chapter, we get to see just how determined and strong-willed Sage is. Her unwavering resolve and shining backbone leave us in awe of her character. And let's not forget about Henry! It's quite satisfying to witness him finally realizing his biggest mistake. But hey, I know some of you might be thinking, "Why can't she just forgive him already?" Well, I'm all for a good life lesson here. We want Henry to truly learn from his errors and grow as a person, don't we? Remember, regret can be a tough pill to swallow, but it plays a crucial part in Henry's personal journey. Let's keep rooting for both of them, knowing that growth and redemption often come hand in hand.

#Henry Cavill #Henry Cavill Imagines #Henry Cavill AU #AU Henry Cavill #Henry Cavill Fan Fic #Henry Cavill FanFic #Henry Cavill Fan Fiction #Henry Cavill FanFiction #Henry Cavill x OC #Henry Cavill x OFC #Original Character #Alternate Universe #Odd Women #Odd Women Series #MSILWRITES #Strong Female Lead #Female Lead with a backbone! #Mads Mikkelsen #Mads Mikkelsen Fan Fic #Mads Mikkelsen FanFic #Mads Mikkelsen x OC #Mads Mikkelsen x OFC #Mads Mikkelsen x Reader #Matthias Schoenaerts

[henrycavillobsessed]

The Dark Side Of Me - Part Three

AU Henry Cavill (Detective!Henry) x female reader

Words: 1,872

TW/CW: Angst/anger. Mentions of pregnancy/miscarriage/harm to babies. Trying for a baby. Violence/blood/mentions of injury. Bad langauge. Hospitals. Nightmares/panic attacks/mental health/therapy.

Summary: Henry finally catches up with Kingsley Archer, the man who nearly took everything from him. The trauma of the attack takes it toll on you.

Notes: I really am sorry it’s taken so long for me to finish this! Life got in the way and writers block really was a thing with this one! However saying that I’m proud I’ve finally finshed my first Henry AU fic and I really hope you enjoy it as much as part one and two!

Part one is here and part two is here

Tag list: @scorpiobitch95 @fanfictionaddiction99 @angelmather1 @tomhiddlestonlove15 @freerose11 @arssunshine @inlovewithhisblueeyes @sunny-byeol @godilovetheenglishx @whitewolf51 @queenofbeingdepressed @maan24 @f1-hoff @witches-of-discovery-a @youronlygoldenangel @yaem1kosgf @dryyoursaltyoceantears @biancacisilino @arssunshinee​ @scorpionchild81

Sunlight filtered in through the open window, bringing with it a slight breeze and the morning chorus of birds that softly woke me. Stretching, I rolled over to see Henry’s side of the bed was empty; I frowned slightly. Always working, I thought to myself, that man is always working… I eased myself out of bed, slightly surprised by how difficult this basic motion was, and looking down I saw… a bump? A baby bump?

“Good morning, my love,” I heard his voice then, and I looked at him in panic as he entered our bedroom.

“Henry? What’s going on? What’s happening to me?” I fretted to him, but he didn’t seem to hear me.

“How are my two favourite girls today?” Henry smiled his crooked smile, my favourite smile, and he bent down to gently pull me up off of the bed and lead me towards our mirrored wardrobe. 

“Henry, what do you mean? What’s wrong with you? I-“ My words choked off in a gasp.

In the mirror, Henry stood behind me, his head bent to rest on my shoulder, his smile now serene as he looked down towards his hands which were tenderly cradling my stomach, my stomach which was straining against my silk pyjama top, and all of a sudden I remembered, and a huge wave of love crashed over me, overwhelming me, and I felt tears of happiness spill from my eyes and down my cheeks…

“Oh, yes… yes! This is our daughter inside of me, isn’t it?” I looked up to meet Henry’s eyes in the mirror, and he nodded. I laughed joyfully once through my tears. “How could I have forgotten! Oh, Henry!”

Then… pain. I was once again confused, as I felt Henry’s hands tense, harder, then harder still as they crushed my stomach, began to crush our baby…

“Henry, stop! What are you doing?” I screamed, looking back up at him in the mirror, desperately.

But Henry wasn’t there. In his place, a man wearing a dark tracksuit stood behind me now, and as I watched his mouth, hidden in the shadow of a cap pulled low over his face, split into a menacing grin, and then the worst pain shocked through me, and my eyes shot down to the fire and I saw it, the handle of a knife sticking out from my abdomen, dark blood flowing steadily from where the blade had entered and I screamed and I screamed and I screamed.

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“You fucking cunt!” Kingsley Archer screamed as he wrenched his head back up from the table; blood gushed from his nose in a torrent, his cuffed hands making him unable to stem it. “You will fucking pay-“ 

BAM. His face once again met the metal table, and this time Henry held Archer there. 

“I thought I said that I was going to be doing the talking?” he growled in his prisoner’s ear. 

Archer moaned, the sound muffled and gurgled as the blood dripped into his mouth. Henry increased the pressure, mashing Archer’s face against the unforgiving surface and he was satisfied to hear the wet crunching that meant the asshole’s nose was breaking further. Yet still Archer wouldn’t cease his whining.

“Look mate, I wouldn’t have gone for her if I’d known it was your missus!”

Henry stilled behind him, fury ice cold in his heart. He bent down, slowly, sinisterly, and his voice was barely a whisper next to Archer’s face. “But it was my missus, Kingsley. And do you know what else? She. Was. Pregnant.”

And with that, the fury unleashed itself. Roaring, Henry seized Archer’s shoulders and using all his strength he wrenched him away from the stainless steel table, the cuffs attached to his arms coming free, and Archer smashed into the mirror behind him, shattering it with his head; blood dripped as he fell down to the floor, groaning, finally lost for words. Henry was upon him then, raining down punch upon punch, each blow punctured with a strangled cry, furious tears burning down his face.

“She was PREGNANT you fucking cunt! PREGNANT! You killed our baby! You nearly killed HER! I’LL FUCKING KILL YOU!” Henry raged, and in that moment he knew his words were true, coming from a dark side of him, one he knew existed somewhere inside but had never wanted to meet, yet now he welcomed it, let this dark version come forth, because hurting Archer was never going to be enough, he needed him dead, wasn’t going to stop until he was dead...

“Henry! Henry, stop! That’s enough!” Suddenly Henry felt a pair of arms dragging him away; he struggled against them.

“NO!” he roared. “Not yet!” 

James Brook’s face came into view through the black haze in Henry’s mind. “Henry, stop. This isn’t you. Stop.” 

Brooks’s words finally got through to Henry and panting heavily, he obeyed, all of sudden feeling weak and spent. Angrily he wiped away the tears on his face with bloody hands, and he looked down at the mess that was Kingsley Archer. He was still alive, but barely, and amongst the lacerations and bruises on his face one eye was swollen shut, blood oozing slowly from the socket. Henry felt no regret for what he had done, instead spitting on him before storming from the holding cell.

“I hope you rot, you piece of shit,” were his last words to the animal that had nearly cost him everything, as the door slammed shut behind him. 

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I wasn’t sleeping when Henry walked into my hospital room; the remnants of my nightmare still haunted me and I was terrified to close my eyes again, instead I sat bolt upright in my bed, holding on to the call button, fear leaving a sheen on my skin as I imagined the man with the cap low on his face entering, coming back to finish the job...

I was so pent up that when the door opened I screamed. 

“Ssh, ssh, Y/N, it’s me, it’s Henry! It’s okay, I’m here, I’m here...” Henry rushed to my side and I clung to him, sobbing out the panic, taking comfort in his solid presence, his scent surrounding me, reminding me of safety, my Henry the detective superintendent, my protector...

As my cried subsided and my breathing returned to a normal pace, I shakily looked up at my husband’s face. He looked like hell, dark purple shadows under his eyes, curls sticking up in every direction, and looking down I saw his hands, red raw and bloodied. Alarm coursed through me.

“You found him.” It wasn’t a question.

“Yes.” 

“Is he- Is he dead?”

“No.”

“But you got him?”

“I got him, baby. He won’t hurt you ever again.”

I cried again then. Relief that my attacker had seemingly paid his debt was coursing through me, although concern rose up underneath it.

“Are you okay though, Henry? Your poor hands...”

He laughed once, humourlessly. “I’m fine, my love, please don’t worry about me.”

“What about your job? Surely this is going to have made an impact.” I asked worryingly and Henry sighed.

“My beautiful wife, I think it’s time I left the police force. It’s been a long time coming, and this whole... situation, it’s made me realise what’s important. I’ve spent so long protecting others, when in reality I should have been protecting you. My job made you vulnerable and I will never, ever forgive myself...” He took a deep breath and continued. “Tonight I met a part of me I never want to meet again. It’s time we moved out of the city and took some time to focus on what really matters- each other. And perhaps, when you’re ready, we can try again for... for a...” his words trailed off as tears pricked his eyes and my heart broke for him. 

He held me close as we both cried, cried for the horror we’d both experienced, and the loss. We held each other wordlessly until long after the sun had come up, only pulling apart when a nurse came in to see to my dressings, and even then I kept him in my sight. 

“I’d like that, you know,” I said to him finally.

“Like what, my darling?”

“To move away, to the country. Kal would too,” I smiled for what seemed like the first time in an eternity and was buoyed when Henry returned it.

“Then that’s what we shall do,” he said, taking my hand and pulling it to his lips, kissing it gently. “That’s what we shall do.”

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18 months later...

In a cottage in the woods, the wind whipped through the dark trees menacingly, and screeched as it rattled the window frames and shadows danced in the thickness of the trees. In your king sized bed in the master bedroom upstairs, Henry looked down at you worriedly as you tossed and turned, moaning softly as sweat shining on your forehead. Suddenly you woke with a scream, eyes darting around in a panic, breath coming out in pants. 

Henry reached out to you, and held you as you calmed down. It might have been a year and a half since the attack but you still suffered with nightmares and panic attacks. The therapist that you saw said this was to be expected, although you were making good progress with your sessions, and Henry of course did everything he could to help. He had plenty of time to be with you now he’d left the force, in fact he hated to be away from you even for a moment, hence why he’d taken a working from home job doing admin work for a security company. It was a pay cut, true, but totally worth it when it came to your mental health and safety. 

Kal whined softly at the end of the bed, his nose resting on the duvet as he looked at you balefully. “Come on, boy,” you whispered and the akita jumped up. You cuddled into him gratefully and Henry’s heart was full looking at the two of you, grateful you had each other. There was still no sign of a baby in your lives although both you and Henry had spoken about it, and were tentatively beginning to try again. For now though, the big bear of a dog was doing a fine job of being both companion and child. 

“I dreamt... I dreamt he was there again, waiting for me...” you spoke quietly after a while.

“I know, baby. I know it feels so real, but he will never find you or hurt you again,” Henry said, pulling you close. “I promise.”

You snuggled in closer to him. “That storm is getting bad out there, isn’t it?” you shuddered as the wind rattled the windows again and rain began to pelt down against them. 

“Yep. But it’s nice and warm and safe in here, baby. Go back to sleep,” Henry replied, humming softly until your eyes fluttered shut and your breathing evened out once again. 

Outside, lightning flashed through the sky, illuminating the trees, and a shadow skulked back to the darkness, a shadow with a cap pulled low over its face, and a glint of silver in its hand... 

                                                     The end.

#henry cavill #henrycavillobsessed #henry cavill obsessed #henry cavill fan fiction #henry cavill fanfic #henry cavill fan fic #henry cavill fanfiction #henry cavill angst #henry cavill au #henry cavill x reader

[sweetdreamsofgelato]

Ebb and Flow

(image shameless taken from google)

Pairing: AU!Henry Cavill x Reader (You)

Summary: see the prompt below

Rating: E for everyone (maybe T for a little mild language?)

Word Count: 4261 (I know, I KNOW. Yes, I got carried away and no, I don't want to talk about it)

Warnings/Content: AU!RPF; mild adult language; pining 💋 Emotions with a capital E

A/N: 

I was presented with two kissing prompts (#66 and #67) from this list and whilst I mulled over both, this idea took hold, so I combined them. I hope you don't mind, @jolly-polly! To my dear Bonnie Nonnie, I know you requested Henry but I hope that AU!Henry will do. Apologies in advance for deviating from the course.

I'm afraid I might've gone a little overboard with the imagery in this one, but I was IN MY FEELS so I soldier on without regret.

A side note for anyone who enjoys instrumental music: I was utterly consumed by Ludovico Einaudi's In a Time Lapse album the entire time I wrote this. I can't recommend it enough. Time Lapse, Run, Brothers, Experience, and Burning were particularly inspiring.

Unbeta-ed. All mistakes are my own.

Reposting my works on any other sites or platforms is strictly prohibited (my official AO3 is linked in my master list). Likes, comments, and reblogs are always greatly appreciated.

Working at a charming little bookshop on a leafy corner of the local high street was certainly not your dream when you accepted the job, but the elderly couple who owned it were incredibly kind and desperately needed help, and you were in the market for a job that didn’t completely crush your will to live. 

For a small business, it had a large and fiercely loyal customer base and most days you felt positively run off your feet. Not long after you started, it was plain the shop needed more help. You were only one person, and the Cavills were on the dark side of their golden years—both neither quick moving nor technologically inclined, which made keeping up with demand a daunting task indeed.

Which is why it came as much of a surprise a few months later when you’d expected Mr Cavill to inform you that he was hiring another shop clerk, that he rather announced he and his wife were taking off for the Mediterranean. Truth be told was Mrs Cavill had been not- so-quietly longing for sandy beaches and warmer climes for some time and Mr Cavill finally agreed to dip his toes into retirement.

For a brief moment, you thought you were going to lose a job you’d come to really love. Gratefully, Mr Cavill was not yet ready to shutter the doors or sell off the business. It was still profitable, after all, and the shop had been Cavill-owned for four generations, so he was (rightfully) reluctant to let it pass out of familial hands. It was a relief when a few weeks later, he informed you that though he was taking a “sabbatical” (as he liked to call it), his grandson, Henry, would be stepping up in his absence.

If there was anything you learned over the time leading up to said grandson’s arrival, it was that the Cavills loved him fiercely. Mrs Cavill spent most afternoons regaling you with memory after memory, sparing none of the normal flattery all the while. He was kind, tall, polite, generous, handsome, intelligent, athletic, hard-working, handsome, and friendly. A true gentleman.

And did she mention handsome?

Yes, she had. So much so you were concerned that this all was possibly a set-up. You didn’t think so highly of yourself to suspect that the whole thing was an elaborate ruse, but rather perhaps convenient opportunism was at play. Wouldn’t be the first time some well-meaning grandmother tried to pair you up with a beloved grandson. By Mrs Cavill’s account, Henry was quite lovely and you didn’t look upon him uncharitably, but the fact was that loving grandparents tended to regard their grandchildren through rose-coloured glasses. 

That morning, you were still brainstorming how to gently let them down without making the atmosphere at work irrevocably awkward when the little bell over the shop door tinkled someone’s arrival. You assumed it to be the first customer to drop in on this unusually quiet morning.

“Grandad? Gran?” 

You froze over the box you were unpacking and furtively glanced at the calendar on the back of the door, then at your watch and cursed. Okay, not a customer. It was him. 

“Anyone here?” Henry’s voice was deep and warm and smooth as velvet; you were horrified by the rogue tingle that ran up your spine.

Ever so quietly, you tiptoed around the boxes at your feet and poked the swinging door open just enough to get a glimpse. Your jaw dropped. 

“Oh no,” you gasped. His back was to you, but even at a distance, he cut the exact image Mrs Cavill described: statuesque. Tall and broad, like a rugby player or perhaps a professional lumberjack, if either wore perfectly-tailored tweed suits.

“Hello?” he called out again. He turned and searched the shop for any sign of life. You caught a glimpse of his profile and your knees threatened to turn to jelly.

Shit shit shit! You quickly drew back and caught yourself against the shelves. This was bad. This was really bad. Mrs Cavill had not exaggerated in any way. If anything, she’d criminally understated her description. One could be blind as a bat and still tell that he was exceedingly handsome. He had an aura.

What a fool you were. Here you’d spent the better part of a fortnight coming up with gentle ways to tell the Cavills that you weren’t interested in their grandson, and now here he was in the flesh and you were a sharp jawline away from proposing marriage. You’d not even officially met. 

Horror struck; you slowly sniffed your armpit and your nose wrinkled at the offence. What were the odds that he’d leave if you kept quiet? Not good, you reluctantly admitted. Surely he’d expect that you were expecting him—and you were, it’s just that time had gotten away from you, as it always did when you were focused. Still, after three hours sequestered in the store room doing inventory, you were undoubtedly a smelly and sweaty mess, and you did not want his first impression of you to be that of a wilted shop clerk. 

For purely professional reasons, of course.

You frantically, but quietly—very quietly, hunted for your bag and rummaged for that fragrance sample you’d chucked in for odorous emergencies. You spritzed under each arm as you huffed into your palm. You immediately searched for a mint. 

“Hi.”

It came from the doorway right behind you, and you very nearly hit the ceiling in surprise. The noise that escaped your lips was positively Jurassic.

“Sorry, didn’t mean to frighten you.”

“Nope,” you squeaked, threw your bag across the room and turned to face him. So much for first impressions. You cleared your throat and did your best to school your features into something less spooked. “Nope, you didn’t.”

He watched you with a placid sort of look. The kind someone wears when they absolutely don’t believe you but they’re far too polite to call you out on it.  He leaned against the door frame and gave you a little wave. “I’m Henry.”

“I know,” you blurted. Fuck.“I mean, it’s nice to meet you. I’ve heard so much about you.” And all of it bloody true, apparently. You held out your undoubtedly clammy hand and made your introductions. 

“Nice to put a face to the name,” Henry said. He gave your hand a firm squeeze and your forearm erupted in gooseflesh. “I’ve been hearing all about you for weeks.”

You laughed nervously, rubbing your palms over your skin and desperately willing it back to normal before he noticed. “All good things, I hope.” 

“Only the best,” Henry answered with a reassuring smile.

Your heart did a precarious little wobble. 

He’s just a man, you scolded yourself, and though he may look like he walked straight off an old Hollywood movie set and could charm the pants off a nun, certainly he couldn’t be everything his grandmother made him out to be. No one was that perfect. 

***

He was. He was so bloody perfect you wanted to cry. 

As a universal rule, men like this didn’t actually exist. It was a commonly known fact that they were myths. Legends. Exaggerated and unattainable fabrications conjured from the imaginations of gothic novelists and social media experts.

You assumed Henry (as kin to the owner) would take up the role of Boss Man, and if a lifetime of anecdotal evidence dealing with attractive men in positions of power proved correct, he’d immediately start throwing his weight around like a proper egoistic tyrant. 

But that was so far from the truth that you still felt ashamed for prematurely judging his character. He was just as described. Handsome and kind in equal measures. Impeccably well-mannered, even when he rang and told off the couriers when they stuffed up deliveries. Generous. Most days he offered to grab lunch or make a coffee run and he always offered a helping hand no matter how menial the task.  Not to mention the thrice-a-week homemade treats. 

It was his way to decompress, he’d said, and you didn’t complain.

Henry’s even-tempered disposition notwithstanding, he wasn’t above throwing around his impressive weight when he deemed it necessary. He pulled off mean and scary quite effectively when he’d chased off a creep who decided it was their life’s purpose to come in every day and pester you. Henry had even offered to escort you home until you felt comfortable walking on your own again.

The man was a damned unicorn and he was the best non-boss boss you’d ever had. 

***

You stood in the doorway to the admin office—which was really a glorified broom cupboard not much wider than the breadth of Henry’s shoulders—and chewed around an overly-large bite of homemade pastry. It was all you could do not to moan. He had no right to be this skilled in the kitchen. It was almost as much a turn-on as watching him assemble one of the shop’s shiny new computers.

One always appreciated a man who was good with his hands.

To add to his ever-growing list of positive qualities, he was also a bit of a nerd. Henry had taken one look at the existing system and had been downright horrified by the outdated technology. He was adamant about bringing the shop up-to-date, but instead of ordering a prefab computer, he’d custom-ordered an entirely new system which he planned to assemble himself. After much anticipation, the equipment had finally been delivered. It would solve a lot of headaches, but not all of them.

As Henry’s arrival more or less coincided with the Cavills' departure, the shop was down one net member of staff, and whilst Henry was more than capable of doing the work of three people, he shouldn’t have to. You both agreed that the shop needed more help. 

“Know anyone who might want a job?” Henry murmured around the tiny screwdriver clenched between his teeth.

Your mouth went dry as you watched his lips move around the tool. “You’d leave that decision to me? 

“Why not?” He adjusted his headlamp, pushed his glasses up his nose and resumed fiddling with the computer’s internals. “Technically you’ve got seniority, so you understand the shop’s staffing needs far better than I do.”

“I just thought, being related to the owner and all, that you’d be in charge of these sorts of decisions.” Of all the decisions, really.

Henry looked visibly uncomfortable at the suggestion. “I like to think we have more of a horizontal organisational structure here.” He fitted the computer cover back in place. “A purely collaborative and democratic effort.”

“Oh.” How refreshing. “Not worried I’ll just hire an irresponsible friend and run the business into the ground?” You stuffed the rest of the pastry in your mouth and gingerly sucked the sugary remnants from your thumb. Not good manners, you knew, but it was too delicious to waste on a napkin.

Henry stuttered to a pause as if his mind momentarily blanked. He cleared the grit from his throat and continued, “I trust you. Not to mention it’d be rather hypocritical to accuse you of nepotism.” Henry graced you with a sly smile and you never felt closer to swooning. “Besides, you don’t strike me as the self-sabotaging type.”

Generally, you weren’t but you’d argue that steadily falling head over heels for your coworker could certainly categorise you as such. Still, the fact that he’d thought of you in any sort of capacity left your cheeks overheated. 

“I know just the person.”

***

“He’s a serial killer.”

“He’s not a serial killer.”

You stepped back from the small rosewood display table to both admire your handiwork and question the intelligence behind hiring your eternally paranoid flatmate, Sarah. 

The timing had been rather serendipitous, as Sarah had found herself suddenly out of work—which was no fault of her own. Her ex-boss was an absolute cretin and deserved the throat punch he’d received for groping Sarah in the office lift. Not to mention Sarah’s ability to keep paying rent benefitted you both, but it was possibly at the cost of your sanity.

“Has to be.” 

“He can’t be,” you insisted testily. This was the third time she’d brought this up. Sarah angled you an expectant look that read explain and you fumbled around your brain from some logical reasoning. 

“He bakes,” you added weakly. Surely being able to produce delightfully sugary bits of heaven didn’t preclude one from being a serial killer, but you still liked to think the likelihood of association was relatively low. 

“All the more reason to suspect him,” Sarah replied as she continued boxing online orders behind the counter. “Some of the most notorious serial killers were all described as charming, handsome, or talented in some way. Henry’s all three at least. There is such a thing as too perfect.”

Be that as it may. “You need to lay off the True Crime.”

“Absolutely not.” Sarah pointed the tape gun in your direction. “It’s a prerequisite for modern-day survival.”

You weren’t going to argue; it was too exhausting. “He can’t be all bad if he let me hire you no questions asked.”

“I suppose that’s true,” Sarah admitted. “I know just the way to show my gratitude.”

“By being ferociously dedicated to your job?” you asked hopefully.

She made a vague motion around her face. “Hannibal Lector mask.”

Sarah actually got it for him, and instead of reprimanding her as he ought, he kept it displayed under glass next to the till with a sign reading:

For Emergency Use Only 

In Case of Rude and Unruly Customers or Serial Killers Masquerading as Gentlemen

Break Glass

It was quite the conversation piece. 

Did you mention his wickedly subversive sense of humour?

Ugh, you were in love.

 ***

It was official. You were pining. 

Like properly pining. The can’t eat, can’t sleep, thrown into existential crisis kind of pining.

“You need to do something about it.”

The computer monitor came back into focus as the delightful little daydream about snogging Henry in the storeroom evaporated in your mind. You sighed ruefully; it’d been a good one. 

“About what?”

“Your Henry situation.”

You slanted a sidelong glance in her direction and mumbled, “I thought you said he was a serial killer.”

“I may have been a bit hasty with my judgments,” Sarah conceded as she adjusted the rucksack on her shoulder. “Seriously. I am begging you to go for it, if not for your sake, then for mine.”

Your brow furrowed; you swivelled in your chair to face her.

Sarah took the opportunity to squish your cheeks between her palms, lest you flee the conversation as you’d done on at least two other occasions. “I can’t watch you torture yourself anymore.”

“I’m not torturing myself.” At least not deliberately. You batted her hands away. “I’m being pragmatic.”

“By torturing yourself.”

“He’s my boss.” 

He was more than that, you knew. It hadn’t taken long to pass into the realm of friendship. You didn’t dare presume more than that though, despite having incrementally fallen in love with him since the day he walked into your life. That was the fastest way to a broken heart.

“He’s far more than.” Sarah echoed your inner thoughts and you wanted to crawl under the counter and hide. 

“He’s still my boss.” Was he, though? Henry had adamantly refused the mantle whenever you mentioned it, so you weren’t really certain anymore. The lines had always been a bit blurry. Made for a convenient excuse though. 

“Didn’t Henry give you the whole “horizontal organisation” speech?” Sarah asked cheekily. “Sounded euphemistic to me.”

“Regardless, it’s ethically unwise.” You loosed a long, beleaguered exhale and rested your chin in your palm. “Weren’t you leaving?”

Sarah pointedly ignored your dismissal. “Office affairs are a beloved modern literary trope and a cornerstone of the romance genre.” 

You cast her a wry smile. “Traded True Crime for fan fiction, then?” Not that you were judging. You could go down an Ao3 rabbit hole and easily not come up for days. 

“It’s more common than you think.”

“Reading fan fiction?”

Sarah’s expression flattened. “Shagging your coworker.”

That was a leap you’d not even dared in your own dreams. “The man is three eyebrow hairs away from Adonis.” 

Freak kitchen accident apparently and he’d been afraid to make crème brûlée since. You couldn’t suppress a dreamy smile at the memory of that conversation, because Henry’d relayed it one early morning whilst presenting you with—crème brûlée. It was the best damn thing you’d ever tasted. He’d even let you eat half his portion.

“Why on earth would he want me when he could have literally anyone else?” you lamented.

“Have you seen the way he looks at you? He practically worships the ground you walk on.” Sarah looked about two seconds away from reaching across the counter and shaking you. “The man’s in a desperate state but much too polite to make the first move. Honestly, you two are hopeless.”

You were definitely hopeless, there was no denying that, but the rest of it sounded a bit of a stretch. If that were true, surely you would’ve seen the signs. 

“It’ll make things weird,” you said. You left off the last bit of that thought: when he says no.

Sarah looked suspiciously smug. “Not if he says yes.”

The shop door swung open and in strode your personal greek tragedy, two paper cups of tea in hand. 

“Hey Sarah, I thought you were already off on holiday,” said Henry, who glanced awkwardly between you, Sarah, and the two cups in his hands. He set one on the counter for you and offered Sarah the other—the one that you were sure he’d intended to drink himself. 

The pining intensified.

“No, thanks. On my way out as we speak.” Sarah confirmed as she gave him a mock salute. You picked up your tea and took a sip. From the corner of your eye, you caught her silently mouthing Do it! before she slipped out the door. 

“I appreciate you picking up Sarah’s shifts,” said Henry. He came around the back of the counter and rifled through a few bits of post resting next to your elbow. “When she told me Cassie surprised her with a Norwegian cruise, I couldn’t say no to the last-minute request for holiday leave.”

“Mhmm,” you murmured absentmindedly, then turned to Henry in confusion. He was very close and smelled amazing. Warm and spicy, like a smoky campfire in autumn. You swallowed hard, your voice rough when you asked, “Cassie?”

“Her girlfriend,” he prompted with a quizzical raise of his brow.

“Oh, right.” Your eye’s narrowed toward the door. Sarah and Cassie split up two months ago and as far as you knew, she wasn’t dating anyone new. Norwegian cruise but only packed one rucksack? This reeked of subterfuge.

Henry’s eyes swept over towering stacks of boxes and growing piles of books destined for new shelves. The shop was closed to customers for the day and it was all hands on deck for a seasonal inventory catalogue and reshuffle, but you were two hands down and hadn’t made much progress. 

The daydreaming hadn’t helped. You let out a resigned sigh.

“Looks like it’s gonna be a late night.” He nudged his shoulder gently against yours. It took all of your willpower not to lean into the touch. “Let’s order takeaway.”

***

The bookshop was rather magical at night. It was one of many reasons you loved working evening shifts. With the shades drawn and the lights dimmed to a warm glow, it had a sort of natural cosy ambience of a private library. Then again, it could just be the company. 

As you reached up to shelve another book, your focus drifted along the instrumental music still playing through the shop and back to just hours before. The vision swam into view, entrenched on the horizon of your mind’s eye as, now, a core memory:

Henry perched on the edge of the window display opposite, you tucked into a plush armchair he’d dragged over from the reading corner for you. Between you, the remnants of a feast spread over a makeshift cardboard box table because the man didn’t know the definition of restraint when it came to food. He pushed the sleeves of his cobalt knit jumper to his elbows and set aside his steaming mug, the contents of which threatened to splash all over him as he animatedly recounted yet another story that had easily reduced you both to shared fits of laughter. 

You rested your elbow on the side of the armchair and leaned your fist against a cheek so delightfully sore from the near-constant smile Henry so easily coax forth. Watching him at that moment, you knew no matter how much you tried to ignore or deny it, you were in love.

In the present, warmed from the memory, you slid the book home onto the shelf and fought to breathe. 

It was definitely the company.

You forced your way through the haze of your thoughts as you hopped off the railed step ladder. If you lost yourself in work, you couldn’t think about the rest. Or so had been the plan, but it seemed fate had other ideas. With a frown, you inspected the collection of boxes nearest. 

“Henry, do you have Young Adult S2? I don’t have it.”

You heard thumps and shuffling from across the shop, and then Henry answered, “Got it! Stay put. I’ll bring it to you.”

With Young Adult S1 under your arm, you were back up the steps and shelving the last stragglers whilst you waited. When you turned around to descend, you accidentally smacked Henry across the face with the empty box.

“Shit!” you cursed and threw the cardboard aside. “Henry, I’m so sorry!” 

“No worries,” Henry chuckled graciously as he set down the box in his hands and gingerly rubbed his face. “No harm done.”

“Nonsense,” you fussed. By your own terribly unscientific analysis, Henry’s only toxic trait was belying the truth for the sake of others’ feelings. “Let me see.”

Without thinking, you leaned down and gently grasped his chin. He allowed you to tilt his face to the side and inspect the damage. His jaw flexed under your fingers when you traced a fingertip over the faint pink mark blooming across the stubbled skin of his cheek. Even with the superficial scratch, he was still stunning. All beautifully sculpted angles in such sharp contrast to the softness of his nature. Your gaze naturally drifted to his mouth when it parted on a sharp intake of air. 

Your eyes flicked back up; your breath caught and the gooseflesh returned, and this time it was head to toe. Your hand dropped but your entire body rooted to the spot. Henry watched you with piercing intensity. The bright blue of his eyes gone dark as lapis. Sharper and clearer than you’d ever seen before.

It happened all at once, or maybe it hadn’t. People often talk about points of no return, but this was different. Not so much before and after, but rather with a single intimate touch, the barrier between two parallel realities dissolved. They slowly bled together, coalescing in a heavily charged anticipation that swelled unbidden in the space between. It surged through you and kicked up your heart into a frantic pace.

This is where desire lived. 

You bowed into it. An ebb to the flow, unable to resist the pull of its fulcrum. The step ladder shuddered under Henry’s weight as he moved onto the bottom step, his arms bracing the railing on either side of you. He’d not laid so much as a finger on you, but you felt him everywhere. A delicate counter pressure pressing in. You nervously chewed at your bottom lip; Henry’s eyes followed the movement and you saw it again. A flicker of something only just restrained. Barely perceptible, but the shift was undeniable now that you’d had glimpsed behind the veil. 

Henry reached up with one hand and cupped your face as he narrowed the distance. His thumb reverently traced over your bottom lip and across the curve of your cheek. Henry release your name in a breathy oath just before his mouth found yours.

First kisses were funny things. They come with such high expectations. Metaphorical explosions, fireworks, and seismic rifts in space and time. Some sort of divine reordering of the cosmos. But this kiss…

It was gentle and cautious. A greeting between two souls stepping fully into the light and meeting for the first time. Like a camera coming into focus, everything fell away and there was just Henry, and he was absolutely breathtaking. 

His mouth angled against yours and you returned in kind, urgency threatening to take hold, but Henry suddenly broke away. You despaired at the loss.

“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have…” He was winded. His eyes searched yours, and they were wounded in a way that made your chest ache because you knew where it came from: anticipated rejection. “Are you sure?”

You wished to pour your heart into his. To fill all the cracks from which his vulnerability broke through. You wished to tell him that this little bit of paradise you both somehow managed to discover was safe. Here was a home where he’d only find warmth, joy, and love. 

Your fingers brushed through curls just as soft as you’d imagined and you sank into his embrace. Gently drawing his lips back to yours, your smile melded with his, and you answered without words, in a space between hearts where none were required. 

#Henry Cavill #Henry Cavill Fan Fiction #Henry Cavill AU RPF #AU RPF #Henry Cavill x Reader #Henry Cavill x You #Henry Cavill fanfic #Henry Cavill Fanfiction #sweetdreamsofgelato writes #fic: ebb and flow