#suchalonelysunflower

[suchalonelysunflower]

Villain

Sinners and Saints - Chapter 2

Pairing: Mafia! Ashton Irwin x Fem! Hemmings! Reader

Summary: Who’s afraid of the big bad wolf? After seemingly accept to help her, Ashton would not make it easy for the reader to find his good graces.

Warnings: Violence, swearing, blood, guns, threats, kidnapping, murder, mentions of abuse, injury. Some grammar mistakes (English is not my first language I’m sorry)

Word count: 5.9k

Author’s Note: I’m keeping it, and if you don’t like AU’s don’t read them 🤷🏼‍♀️ Thank you all for the support with the first chapter, it means a lot 🩷 And remember to reblog, comment and like the post if you enjoyed it ❤️ Hope you like it and happy reading 🌻✨🦋

Series Masterlist

“Careful, angel” You could hear the smile in his voice dripping with condescending sarcasm “We don’t want you to get hurt”

Still, you kicked and fought and bit and yelled “fire” hoping anyone could hear and come and help, but the music was too loud and you were at least ninety percent sure the walls were soundproof. You could not see anything besides the darkness of the velvet inside of the - you guessed - bag over your head. Your heels dug into the ground as the minions Ashton probably hired from the slums tried to drag you away.

“Get the fuck away from me!”

“Motherfuck-!” One of them yelled after you sunk your teeth deep into his hand. You smiled at the faintest taste of blood that lingered on your tongue. If you were going down, at least they’d know you fought back.

Ashton rolled his eyes with a sigh “You know,” He said “You used to be fun”

“Fun?!” You yelled turning your head toward where you thought he was, still dragging your feet as two pairs of arms dragged you “I would show you fun, you sick son of a-”

“Ah-ah better be careful with your next words, angel” Ashton tutted. You felt his breath next to your ear, goosebumps jumping up on your skin as he leaned down and whispered “We both know you like it”

At that point, you were hoping you had a bag over your head so that he would miss the way your cheeks flamed up at his proximity. But if you had to guess, he probably wore a devilish smirk right now, and oh, how you wanted the satisfaction to erase it completely.

“GODFUCK-” You smiled as you heard Ashton’s groan in pain after you kneeled him near his crotch.

“Oops”

Soon, your wrists were grabbed by one of his hands, pulling you closer to him. You could feel his heartbeat next to yours as he took off the covering of your face.

Hazel, angry eyes were staring right at yours, you didn’t dare look away. You couldn’t. His gaze scanned your face, lingering a second too long on your lips before his stare found yours again, looking back with something hidden in them, something that made your breath get caught up in your lungs the second you noticed the soft caressing of his thumb against the skin of your wrist. It was a challenge, it had to be. You knew Ashton’s tricks too well to fall for them so easily. But having him so close made you realize exactly why it seemed so thoughtless to give it all away.

“Why do you have to be so difficult?” He asked, words like velvet coming out of his mouth.

“I don’t know,” You answered, staring back at him with anger “Why do you have to be such an asshole?”

Ashton chuckled, “Ouch, and I thought we were getting along”

Suddenly, you felt someone yank you from his grasp and carry you over their shoulders to the exit. You kicked and screamed, but all was fruitless as you were thrown inside a car where they tied up your wrists and ankles, and covered your face with another blindfold.

“Believe me, angel. I had no intentions of tying you up this soon” Ashton’s voice came floating as you felt the seat next to you dip under his weight. You scoffed in annoyance.

“Bite me, Irwin”

“Don’t threaten me with a good time, love” He said “And try and keep quiet, alright? Don’t make me gag you… Unless you want to”

The car started moving, and just like that, you were completely at his mercy.

*

During the whole car ride, you were completely silent and still. You didn’t even give him the satisfaction of breathing hard, and you knew you were driving him crazy. Well, if the consistent sound of tapping his fingers on his knee told you anything, that is. You had to repress a smile at that.

Ashton liked the chase and fight. You noticed it the second you saw that glint in his eyes. One does not get the name Lucifer by playing fair and liking it.

“Turn over here,” He told the driver “Take the next exit and then straight home”

You rolled your eyes. Of course, he didn’t want you to know where he lived or how to get there, it was all part of the protocol your father used with all of his associates as well. How many times have the driver picked you up from school and a random man was sitting at the back with a bag over his head and his hands bound with tape if anything?

But you’ve already sold your life to the devil. You promised everything he requested to save Luke from whatever hellhole he was caught up with. You trusted him despite yourself because no one else would’ve helped you due to the nature of your last name. Ashton knew this. He knew that you weren’t going to betray him, you couldn’t even if you wanted to while your brother was nowhere to be found. So what was all this circus? Was it just to humiliate you further?

“Someone’s awfully quiet over there” He taunted. You said nothing “Aww, cat’s got your tongue, angel?”

You kicked what you hoped was his seat and heard him laugh quietly. Your cheeks burn red as you bite your tongue from ever answering him. There will be nothing left to say until he starts helping you with the search.

Sometime later, the car came to a halt. You heard how Ashton’s men got out of the vehicle, feeling how it got lighter once they did. You were still sitting in place, not moving unless moved to become more of an inconvenience for anyone because they knew that if they tried to touch you, some of the bruises you left on them might become worse.

That’s until you felt a familiar grasp on your arm.

You tried to hit him once again, but Ashton was pulling you from a distance of a few steps ahead of you. He took you up some stairs and you heard a big door closing behind you. Suddenly, the light came through.

“Now, listen,” Ashton said as your eyes adjusted to the light and the new environment “I don’t want any funny business here, you got it?”

Your head was reeling too hard to even speak. Your eyes started to look around, familiarizing yourself with this new threat. The two of you were standing in a grand entrance lobby, the main staircase not too far behind in the room. There were guards on each door, some even waiting with firearms in their hands, ready to draw. The marble floors decorated the room with elegance, nothing you wouldn’t expect from someone in this line of business.

But what really impressed you was the size of this mansion. Of course, you had your fair share of them, coming from a big, important family, it was nothing new. But knowing that Ashton lived there alone… it sure felt lonely.

Yet, you barely had time to ponder on that as Ashton grabbed you by the arm again and dragged you up the stairs.

“You are never to leave this room, understood?”

“What?”

He opened up a door, practically throwing you inside and making you lose your footage.

“This door stays unlocked for me at all times” He sternly ordered “Don’t get in my way, don’t bother me, and don’t come looking for me. If you do, somebody better be dead or I’ll make sure they will be”

Ashton slammed the door after that, leaving you completely alone.

Immediately, you ran to the door, but when you opened it you found two guards standing with their broad backs facing you, both of them with guns.

You groaned and slammed the door shut. Falling to your knees as you desperately and angrily wiped away the tears that could not stop falling. You cursed Ashton’s name over and over again, hitting the ground until your knuckles were scraped and started to bleed a little bit. By then, almost all of your anger was contained and you were left feeling numb once again.

You stood up and cradled your hands with each other, looking around the green sage-painted room. The door of the bathroom was opened, so you went in to clean up the dirt and blood from your hands and fingertips. You noticed it had a bathtub; and towels; and the cabinet was filled with ibuprofen, bandages, and a first aid kit.

You looked back into the room and also noticed how the sheets were new, and the blankets over them were placed perfectly aligned with the pillows. You rummaged through the closet and found different outfits mostly consisting of sweatpants, hoodies, workout clothes, and a set of pajamas. The realization that Ashton got someone to get the room ready for you while you were driving to his house caught you by surprise.

Still, a cage was still a cage no matter how fancy it seemed.

The next thing you did was try to get to the windows, but as you suspected they were nailed shut and made with bulletproof glass.

“Smart,” You thought “You win this round, Irwin”

Suddenly, the antics of the day caught up with you as you let yourself fall into the sheets and the bed. You didn’t know how or when, but when you woke up, you were tucked underneath the blankets.

*

The next morning Ashton woke up with a major headache. His mouth was dry and his hair was sticking out in various directions. He got out of bed with a groan and with the everyday motivation coming from the smell of coffee coming from the kitchen.

But his thoughts are quickly scrambled by loud knocks at the door.

“Fuck… What?!” He shouted, rubbing his eyes, still trying to wake up.

“Sir?” One of his bodyguards talked through the other side of the door “I- uh. I’m afraid something’s happened… eh, with the guest. She- she’s not in her room, sir”

“WHAT?!

Immediately, Ashton was out of bed and putting on his sweatpants, grabbing the gun that slept next to him on his bedside table. He opened the door and put the front sight up against the guard’s neck and under his chin, making the man gulp when he saw the anger in his boss’ eyes.

“Say that again” He demanded.

“Th-the- the maid went to give her br-br-breakfast but the girl was not-”

Ashton rolled his eyes and murmured a “Fucking idiot,” before he went up to check up on the room across the hall.

Empty.

“Shit,” He cursed, punching the door frame and turning toward his crew “I want eyes on every fucking room in this house. The pool. The garden. The fucking sheds! Not a single rock left untouched! That’s Y/N Hemmings we’re talking about!”

“And if we find her?”

“When you find her you bring her to me. I’ll deal with her”

The men scurried quickly, leaving Ashton shirtless and alone in the hall. He cursed out loud and headed toward his office to check the cameras. Surely, if his idiot guards could not handle you, you still mustn't've gone too far-

Ashton backtracked a little bit, turning toward the door of the office and opening it completely. You almost laughed at his face when he saw you sitting there in front of his computer. But you quickly decided to ignore it and just go back to work. He has you trapped, but that does not mean you owe him any interactions.

“What the fuck are you doing?” He asked.

You noticed how his chest was rising and falling with anger he tried to keep at bay. The scars that adorned his skin seemed to come alive at that. His eyes were trained on you, waiting for an explanation.

“Starting the investigation” You shrugged.

“How did you-?”

“Please, I still remember your mum’s birthday. You’re the type of man who would use that as his password. I didn’t need to try that hard”

Ashton saw red at your comment. He slammed the gun to the desk and grabbed you by the arm, surely leaving bruises as he dragged you out.

You started to fight, punching him wherever you could. But he suddenly stopped and grabbed your other wrist with his hand, twisting it a little bit, just enough to make you complain and to stop your attempts to hurt him.

In his eyes, you could see the reason why people say he’s the angel of death. There was nothing but anger and hatred as he looked at you. It scared you for a moment, but it wasn’t going to make you run away.

“You said you would help me” You spat at him.

“I never said I would make it my priority”

“You motherfuck-” You cursed him out, trying to escape his grasp but it was useless. Yesterday he might’ve been playing a little bit, but now he was showing you his real strength.

Ashton shoved you back into your room, not even looking as he said “Change of plans, since you want to be a brat, you’ll be treated as one”

Then, he slammed the door and you heard the lock being put on.

You ran up to it, banging on it and fiddling with the knob to no avail. You cursed out his name and yelled at him, demanding to be let out.

“WE HAD A DEAL!” You’d shout until your voice gave out, but it all fell on deaf ears.

What have you gotten into?

*

Hours later, while you’re trying your best to pick the lock of the windows, the door opens.

“That’s not going to work, you know?” A kind voice said, “Believe me, I’ve tried”

You turned around to find the blond girl from the bar. She was smiling at you, leaning against the door frame. But the way she smiled… It seemed too familiar. Then, it hit you.

“Lauren,” You breathed her name, she laughed.

“About time you remember me!” Lauren said, walking into the room and sitting over the bed, patting the spot next to her “I almost thought you forgot about me”

“It’s not that,” You said, complying and sitting beside her “It’s just- wow, you were so little the last time we saw each other. And now…”

“I know, right? The glow-up did me good” She joked “And so it did to you. When you gave me your name yesterday, I must admit it took me a while. But when I noticed how my brother started to act…”

You rolled your eyes at her comment about Ashton “So being her prisoner is special treatment?”

“Having him agree to help you is special treatment. You know how he is”

But that was the thing, you didn’t. You’ve known of him, of his reputation, of his deeds. But Ashton Irwin was a complete stranger to you. Whoever that person at the end of the hall was, he was far away from the boy you used to know.

“Are you-?” You cleared your throat, not knowing how to ask the question.

“In the family business?” Lauren finished for you “No, I’m only working at the bar and as Ashton's assistant for a few months. Took a sabbatical from uni. Harry is also going there but he’s more applied to his studies” She laughed “Ashton never wanted us involved, even made us change our last name for a while so we don’t get connected to him or all of this.”

“I’m glad,” You smiled. “I would’ve done the same thing if I had younger siblings. My brother’s did try it with me, though. But, you know” You looked at her, and something flashed in her eyes “You look a lot like her”

“I know,” Lauren smiled at you, putting her hand over yours “And, I haven’t said it yet, but I truly am sorry about your brothers. It’s a shitty situation”

“Tell me about it,”

“But I know if anyone is going to find Luke, it’s Ashton” She assured you “And, don’t tell him this? But I did have a little girl crush on Luke way back when. So I really do hope you’ll find him”

You laughed at that, promising to keep quiet “Be honest with me, Lauren. Am I doing the right thing by trusting Ashton?”

She sighed “If I’m being honest, I would tell you that you already know never to trust anyone in this line of work. But as someone who knows Ash, and knows everything he’s been through and done… He’s a good guy, Y/N. Or at least better than the rest”

You nodded, understanding what she meant. Yet, your heart was still doubting. Still worried you made the wrong choice by coming to him.

“Oh, and before I forget,” Lauren said, getting up and handing you an old cellphone, “Ash told me to give you this”

“What for?”

“Communication, emergencies. You name it. It only has his number on it, but I snuck mine before he could notice” She gave you a wink “Talk to you later, okay?”

“Hey, Lauren?” You called for her before she left “Thank you. Thank you for everything”

The girl smiled and closed the door, leaving you alone with your thoughts and that old phone in your hands. So you decided to test it.

Me: Couldn’t you have found one phone from this generation?

Ashton: They can easily be tracked. You know that.

Ashton: So, sorry if you wanted games installed.

Me: Are you going to let me out so I can continue with the investigation?

Ashton: Are you going to be a good girl for me and do as I tell you to?

The redness of your cheeks went up to your ears. Groaning as you read that message.

Me: Fuck you, Irwin.

Ashton: Still with that attitude, angel? Too bad, I was going to ask you what you wanted for dinner. Guess the chef will skip that request, then.

Me: I will be caught dead before having dinner with you.

Ashton: Good. We can finally benefit each other, then.

You threw the phone against the wall, denting it a little bit with no damage done to the phone. This was going to be a long day.

*

It was 2 AM when the sound of the door banging against the wall woke you up.

“Get up,” Ashton’s voice rang through your head as you sat up “We’re leaving”

“What?”

He was standing in the middle of the room dressed in an all-black suit, his hair was pushed back, leaving just a wild stand of honey-colored curls to fall upon his forehead. To anyone else, it would seem he was headed to a party, but you knew that could not be the case. He scoffed, already annoyed.

“Are you deaf?” He asked, cocking his gun without even meeting your eyes “I said get up, we’re leaving. Now”

“I’m not going anywhere with you”

Finally, he looked up at you, refusing to accept the challenge that you presented to him.

“I don’t think you understand, angel-”

“Don’t call me-”

But before you could finish your sentence, he took two long strides to your bed and put the gun right up your forehead, fingertips on the trigger.

“When I say you jump, you ask how high. If I tell you to move, you move. This isn’t daddy’s little playground where you can make the rules, princess. I’m in charge here. You work for me. You belong to me. Understood?”

You said nothing, staring directly at him with all the hatred you felt for him at that moment. His hazel eyes mirrored yours, feeling nothing but disgust under his gaze. Yet, you knew he was serious.

“I don’t like to repeat myself, angel. But for you I’ll make an exception” He said gravely “Understood?”

“Yes,” You said through gritted teeth.

Ashton put away his gun, snapping his fingers. Never taking his eyes off you as a maid brought a change of clothes into the room. It was a long-sleeved, black cotton shirt; a pair of black cargo pants; a multipurpose belt; and a can of pepper spray.

“What’s this?” You asked, picking up the tiny can.

“You’re going to blend in with my security team”

“Then shouldn’t I be carrying a gun as well?”

Ashton laughed, “Nice try, angel”

“Irwin, I’m serious! How am I supposed to protect myself with just this?!”

“Then I guess we’ll figure it out,” He said, sparing one last look at you. “I expect you to be downstairs in five minutes”

“What if-”

“Try me. Just once and you’ll see what I’m capable of”

He left the room, leaving you alone huffing and rolling your eyes at the image of him that once was there. But, having no other option, you did as you told.

Downstairs, a couple more guards were standing with Ashton at the door. You noticed a black Range Rover ready to go just outside. One of the guards came toward you, a bag in his hand. You stopped him.

“Is that really necessary?” Ashton raised his brow, and you rolled your eyes “It’s the middle of the night, Irwin. It’s not like I would see much anyway”

The guard looked back at his boss, shrugging. Ashton looked back at you, eyes hard as steel. He didn’t say a word, just turned around and started walking to the car. For a moment, you smiled to yourself for that small victory.

You sat in the back in the middle of two guards, Ashton went up the passenger seat. You frowned. It was not normal for someone that important in this line of work to be in such plain sight. But then again, the glass and the whole car were bulletproof, and the windows were tinted black. And, to top it all off, everyone knew not to fuck up with Lucifer himself if they weren’t ready to face the consequences firsthand. After all, only a fool would try to kill death.

“One of the alarms went off at the club,” Ashton said before you could ask him “Someone tried to break into the offices, killing one of mine.”

That answers the way he was dressed, although you guessed that no matter the occasion, he would dress the part. Still, it didn’t seem like a big deal to wake all of you up in the middle of the night. You’ve walked the hidden halls of the club before, you knew they were well-guarded and with the right security system installed. Ashton surely had the right people to take care of all that. Unless…

“Lauren?” You asked, letting the worry slip in your words.

Ashton barely moved his head, you assumed that hearing the name of his sister come from you must’ve surprised him a bit.

“She’s fine,” He said, dryly “I don’t- She doesn’t work there unless I’m with her”

You nodded. Smart choice from him. Yet, that doesn’t explain why you had to come at this time. But when asked about it, Ashton just gave you the silent treatment until you got there.

Once you were parked, Ashton went out of the car almost immediately, leaving you and his men to follow him.

“Call Clifford,” He ordered to the group of men standing at the door “I don’t care if you have to drag him out of his bed, remind him of the favors he owes me” He turned to another guard “You. I want the list of names of the people that came in yesterday and tonight. I want a background check on their families as well. As for you…”

“Sir, everything was accounted for. Nothing was stolen. Our team is looking for hidden mics and cameras as we speak”

“I don’t fucking care if they took anything or not” He spat “I want to know, how the fuck did they manage to get in the first place?!”

“Sir-”

“No, you listen here” Ashton threatened, just inches away from that man’s face “I’m going in there, and you better pray to your pitiful god that we don’t find anything. If I do, if I even hear about someone who did, you bet your little sorry ass that there will be hell to pay. Starting with you. Don’t make me the villain just because you don’t know how to do your job. Don’t play with me because you will find me, and that will be the last thing you do”

You stood there, shivering. If that was because of the chilly wind or Ashton’s words, you didn’t know, nor were you particularly excited to find out either. Seeing him angry was nothing new to you by now, but it was entirely different seeing his anger aimed at someone else.

Ashton dismissed his men, turning back on his heel and walking up to you. The two men that were by your side rapidly scurried away, leaving you on your own with the devil.

“Anything you want to tell me, angel?” He asked, eyes set on yours.

“What?” You scoffed “You think I had anything to do with this?”

“All I know is that you randomly appeared at my door less than 36 hours ago with some sob, pathetic story, asking for help. And now people have tried to break in”

You couldn’t help but let out a breathy, insincere laugh. Yet, Ashton remained as serious as ever.

“You’re kidding,” You stated “I’ve broken all ties with my family. You know this. Why else would I ask for your help?”

“Because all Hemmings lie, angel,” Ashton said, taking a step closer to you “That’s all they do. And don’t think for a second I believe every word that comes out of your mouth just because you come here with sad eyes, demanding help. I’ve taken a risk by even considering helping you-”

“Then why did you? Why did you say you were going to do it?”

You asked out of genuine curiosity. If helping you was “such a huge risk” for Ashton, then why did he even accept it in the first place? Still, he gave you nothing with his silence.

His eyes were dark, familiar to the boy you once knew, but at the same time so far away from the memory you once held. It was impossible to get a read on him, to know what he was thinking at any given time. He was just standing there, merely a whisper away from you, yet so distant. He was a man with no conscience, no soul, and no mercy.

“I didn’t lie to you,” You told him after a while “I just want to find my brother”

Ashton contemplated you for a moment “And if I refuse to offer any help?”

“Then I will find someone who will” You lied, knowing that no one but him would be able to help you. But hoping Ashton would believe it enough not to question it “You tell me to go and I’ll leave, right? So I’ll be out of your hair if you’re so scared that I might do something”

Your intention was never to walk away, but you knew exactly what buttons to push to get a reaction out of him. And, sure enough, you didn’t walk even one step before his hand grabbed you by the wrist and turned your body around, chest colliding with his, face to face.

He held your wrist at the level of his eye, watching intently over you, trying to decide whether or not to believe you.

“You’re getting on my last nerve, angel,” He said, quietly but with a hint of a threat lacing his words.

Your eyes shifted due to his proximity, going from that hazel color of his eyes to the pinkness of his lips. You caught yourself at the last second, focusing on the chain that hung from his neck over his chest. But the smirk he gave you let you know that he caught you staring.

“Like anything you see, angel?”

You rolled your eyes “You’re impossible, Irwin”

“Maybe,” He said, a smile present in his voice as he lowered his head and whispered in your ear “But as you said, I’m your only hope”

“I didn’t-”

“SIR!” A man yelled behind you. Both turned toward him “We found something-!”

Suddenly, all you could hear was the sound of a gunshot followed by the thud the guard’s body made when it hit the floor.

Ashton turned around quickly, pushing you behind him as he tried to grab his gun from his pocket. It all happened so quickly, that you didn’t even notice the second shot being fired until Ashton groaned and grabbed the side of his arm.

You acted quickly, grabbing Ashton’s gun from his pocket as you started to fire it in the direction where you assumed the shooter was. You pulled Ashton from the back of his collar, awkwardly maneuvering him to safety while you kept shooting until you hit the back of a building. You pushed Ashton against the wall, watching briefly as he sunk to the ground while you tried to focus.

Most of your body was hidden behind that brick wall, but your periphery gave you enough balance to locate the threat. You watched a shadow run from the roof of the club to the alleyway beside it. The guns from both your parts kept shooting bullets in your direction, neither of them hitting the target.

The shadow then jumped on the hood of a car onto the passenger seat. The sound of the tires burning against the floor hurt your ears, and the headlights lit up as they sped away. And, just like that, they were gone.

Your ears kept ringing while you tried to stabilize your breathing. The beating of your heart was going ten thousand miles per hour as the reality of what just happened sunk in. But, what the hell happened?

“What happened?” You whispered to no one in particular “We were just-”

The dryness of your throat forced you to keep quiet. The truth was, you never experienced cross-fire before. You knew how to shoot a gun because your brothers taught you against your mother’s wishes. You knew the basic steps you needed to follow in case there was a shooting. Yet, this was the first time you shot someone - or against someone - and the fact that you couldn’t tell if the shaking of your hands came from fear or adrenaline disturbed you a little.

“Angel,”

You blinked, seemingly being pulled back to earth with his voice.

Ashton was sitting next to you, panting as his hand covered the side of his upper arm. He looked up at you, but the hatred you once saw in his eyes was now replaced by some sort of mischievous gleam. He was grinning at you.

“Well done,” Was all he said before a hiss escaped his lips.

“Oh my god, Ash” You kneeled by his side “I’m sorry, I-”

“It’s fine,” He said, trying to move “I’m fine, the bullet didn’t even - fuck. It didn’t even hit, barely grazed me-”

You rolled your eyes, grabbing the buttons of his jacket and opening them to slide it off.

“Take a guy out for a drink first” He joked as you started to open up his shirt “Although, I can’t say that I mind-”

“For fuck’s sake, Ash. I’m trying to see where the bullet hit you!”

From your position, you couldn’t just shrug off his sleeve. So you grabbed his shoulder and pulled him from the wall, accidentally letting go too early and leaving his head to bounce off the wall by the effect.

“I told you, I’m fi-fiaaagh- The fuck is wrong with you?!”

“Sorry,” You cringed, trying to locate his wound “I can’t see it properly…”

Ashton then swiftly pulled you from your hips into his lap, sitting you properly before he raised his arm and bent it with his hand behind his head.

“Better?” He asked, breathing in deeply from the pain.

You stared at him, perplexed by his actions. But then you shook your head and located the wound, trying your hardest to ignore that you were sitting in Ashton Iriwin’s lap.

His other hand danced over the side of your knee, never touching it, but barely grazing it with his fingertips. His eyes were set on every move you made, never leaving your face. When you noticed it, he smiled at the slight blush that covered your cheeks.

“So,” You said, calmly “Are you going to give me a proper gun now, Irwin?”

“I’ll consider it”

“What? I basically saved your life!”

“You have a poor technique” He shrugged “I can give you some proper points later”

“Proper points?”

Ashton then grabbed his gun from beside you, took out the bullets, and pointed it at you.

“You see this?” He said, “This is how you grabbed the gun, one misfire and you’d be out a finger, angel. You’re lucky my guns are well-calibrated. But we’ll go over that later”

“Sure,” You said, giving him a small laugh in disbelief “Well, you’re lucky that bullet barely left a cut. We- You should go disinfect it before it catches anything”

“I’ll survive then,” Ashton said, lowering his arm and letting it rest on your bent ankle. caressing the skin.

“For now, Irwin”

“Ash,” He said.

“Huh?”

“Earlier you called me “Ash” It’s the first time that I’ve heard it”

“Well, I thought you were dying, so…”

You gave him a small smile that he returned, his fingers still touching your skin as his eyes never left yours.

“We should-” You stammered “We should head back, see if anyone else is injured?”

“So that you could call Peter, “Pete” if he got himself a boo-boo?” You groaned as you rolled your eyes and got off his lap, starting to walk toward the club “I was joking!”

*

Soon, you and Ashton and a couple of guys from his security team were scuttering the roof from where the shadow started to shoot. There was nothing there that could lead them to anything or anyone. It was completely deserted.

“And you’re sure you’ve watched someone run-”

“Yes!” You repeated for the thousandth time, giving them a walkthrough “I saw them appear over here, and then run toward the alleyway. They jumped and got into a car, someone was already waiting there”

Ashton hummed, “We’re going to review the footage, and see if we can trace the license plate or the type of car they were using. That would narrow the list”

“A lot of enemies, Iriwn?”

Ashton shook his head “I don’t think I have anything to do with this, angel”

“What do you mean?”

He walked over to you where the shadow allegedly started shooting. He turned you around and pointed to the two guards that were marking where the two of you had stood before the shooting.

“Tell me when you see it,” He whispered to you.

You scoffed. There was nothing left to see. The man who was supposed to be Ashton is with his back exposed to the shooter while the one representing you was barely in sight. They could’ve easily-

And then it hit you.

They could’ve easily shot Ashton in the back of his neck. But they didn’t.

Ashton was not their target.

You were.

#5 seconds of summer #5sos #suchalonelysunflower #ashton irwin #5 seconds of summer fanfiction #calum hood #luke hemmings #michael clifford #sinners and saints #don’t blame me for what you made me do #Ashton Irwin fanfic #ashton iriwn 5 seconds of summer #5 seconds of summer ashton #ashton 5sos #5sos fanfic #5 seconds of summer fic #ashton Irwin series

[theshyspy]

💙 I have to ask Ash and “omg is it bleeding?” Line cause I would love to see what you can do with that ✨

Tada sunny!! All for you❤️

I don’t even know what this is lol but please enjoy🥰

#celebration✨ #mutuals🤍 #suchalonelysunflower #did I read the request wrong? perhaps a little but it’s okay

[nostalgiabones]

Happy birthday Lauren! Have a wonderful wonderful day 🥰😭❤️

Thank you so much Sunny! 🥹🫶🏼🤍

#🥹🥹🥹🥹 #answered #bday <3 #suchalonelysunflower

[caramelcalum]

Top 5 cartoon shows you watched when you were a kid

tysm sunny!!🌻🌻

immediately totally spies comes to mind - iconic. my sister and i watched that every day after school. also:

courage the cowardly dog

scooby doo

looney tunes

crashbox (idek if anyone else remembers this? but i was lowkey obsessed)

put “top 5” anything in my ask and i'll answer

#suchalonelysunflower #sunny🌻 #asks

[merry-the-cookie]

Thank you for the serotonin ❤️

!!! Youre so very welcome, im glad i can provide!!! 💖💖💖💖💖

#ask #suchalonelysunflower #<3

[talkfastromance4]

Hockey! Cal

I’ve never even seen a game of hockey but I love it thanks to you

Omg YES!!! Also I hope you can see a hickey game they are pretty fun and very action packed!

And you know Princess watches that video THOUSANDS of times just to watch Cal make his appearance. Now I’m picturing Cal and Princess making their own skating videos together. He records her doing tiktok dance trends on her skates, she records him practicing drills and their fans love every minute of it.

#ask #@suchalonelysunflower #hockey!cal

[tpwkwriter]

☃️❄️Tpwkwriters December fic recs 🎄💫

It’s the most wonderful time of the year!! And these fics will certainly most make you feel more festive and cosy! All credit goes to these writers and accounts, as normal my DMs are always open, if anybody wants to be added/removed from this completion let me know!

As usual lots of love and stay safe this winter ❄️🩵

——————————————————————————

Gingerbread kisses- @finelinevogue

Christmassy kisses- @finelinevogue

Holidays with Harry- @harrysfolklore

Wife material- @harrysfolklore

Let it settle- @twostepstyless

We’re matching- @twostepstyless

Christmas cookies- @jarofstyles

The perfect tree- @storiesforallfandoms

Gifts- @tinydestinybear

Christmas Eve- @fictionalwh0ree

Baby it’s cold outside- @watermelonlovershigh

This Christmas- @leveller-75

Matilda- @goldenbuckyyy

That’s my apron- @glitteredrry

Christmas dance- @astranva

Christmas in Holmes chapel- @nationalharryleague

I gave you my heart- @suchalonelysunflower

Baby it’s cold outside- @watermelonlovershigh

New home for the holidays- @1025cherrystreet

This- @sapphicgarlic

This- @kissme-hs

The Christmas gift- @hesmygolden

Christmas spirit- @crowdedimagines

Christmas morning- @afeb

Winter flakes- @oghoneytryst

A dad!harry Christmas!- @lovecanyon

Snow plow- @lovemepleaase

Holiday wishes, mistletoe kisses- @berrynarrybanana

Baking made easy- @harrysgloves

Frosty the snowman- @gucciwins

25 days of Christmas- @emotionally-imbruised

Underneath the tree- @all-things-fic

It’s not Christmas ‘til you come home- @tobesolonely

Christmas lights and love bites- @mouthfulloftoothpasterry

Santas grotto- @musicforastylesrestaurant

One year- @watchmegetobsessed

12 days of ficmas by @watermelonlovershigh

25 day advent calendar by @twostepstyless

Christmas Thyme- @ihearthes

Part 2- @ihearthes

———-☃️❄️Happy holidays to you all 🎄✨————

~💚~

#harry styles #harry styles fanfiction #harry styles au #harry styles blurb #harry styles x y/n #fluff #angst #smut #harry styles fluff #Christmas #Christmas fic rec #Harry styles fic rec #Harry styles Christmas fic rec #merry christmas #harrymas #Harry styles Christmas fics #12 days of ficmans #12 days of xmas concept #Harry #styles #fic recs #Harry fic recs #🩵

[littledrummerangie]

So hello hello good evening Budapest. I'm finally home, it's midnight and and and I had the best time of my life!

Many many highlights of the soundcheck and the show:

My question for soundcheck was picked fiiiirst? Hello??? It was absolutely crazy!

The VIP rep, Athena was an absolut angel, big shout out to her! I had a good talk with her after soundcheck and she was he sweetest.

The guys played Long Way Home and Out Of My Limit.

Before questions the VIP rep asked our names and I told her she can say Angie insted of my Hungarian name.

So she did introduce me "someone who her friends know as Angie", and Michael was like: "and what do people call you who you do not consider as friends?" So I had to tell him that basically anyone before age 15 knows me as my real name, and after that, when I started using the internet and didn't like my name I picked up Angie. So he said, okay, Angie.

My question was: what arw you bringing home from tour (souvenir, memory, feeling).

Ash said his mom always asks for fridge magnets and was like "fuck, Mom, no, it would need its own suitcase" and he said he likes travelling light

Luke said a qeak immune system and he stoles keycards from the hotels he sþays in and has tons

Michael said he gets lot of baby clothes and didn't know how much stuff a baby needs

Calum said he has really good memories of this tour

At thw beginning they also was talking about Buda and Pest, as mentioned by Ash in the IG story.

Other questions were about:

How they choose what they wear. Ash and Luke said they try bot to clash with the others and look ridiculous. They basically go by what Cal chooses, becauee Michael goes by him, and then the rest tries not to clash with them. Look also mentioned whatever he can paid up that he didn't do previously, and how he feels that day.

They asked about the Flatline chorus and Luke did listen to the song on his phone to figure it out... but I'm still not sure as they were also unsure lol.

They asked about the RAH orchestra and how it was a bit hard working with them because they only stayed until their time was up, and they are speaking different musical languages.

And lastly they asked about how they feel when they release a really emotional, personal song and if it's hard to do. They said of course, and how everyone has their own interpretation on songs, and sometimes it's best not to know the original thought and have your own on them.

There was also a fly trying to get into Luke's tea and Ashton kinda looked scared of it because he stood up.and took two steps backwards.

Both Charlotte Sands and AR/CO were amazing.

I was on Michael's side, 2nd row.

Ashton was wearing those silly ass chekered sunglasses for like half the show lol. But he has the biggest biceps in the world oh god.

They were cuteeeee. Michael was so precious. So happy.

We got Wrapped Around Your Finger.

They guys enjoyed Budapest, and said it was a special show because it'a in the last 3 for a long time now.

Also, there was a point where Ash said something about Calum abd I was like... boyfriends.

Michael couldn't sing Best Friends because Luke was being silly and they just started histerically laughing.

Michael remembered and made a joke about last year's KFC thing and someone had a fake/plush KFC bucket hat on and they were making fun of that.

He ended up wearing it for the beginning of Outer Space.

(Terrible photo, sorry. Didn't take much pics.)

Saw Ash at the very end on my side and he is beautiful and smiley. I love him. 🩷🫶

Tagging some peeps for story time: @kindahoping4forever @nostalgiabones @whentherosesbl00m @suchalonelysunflower

#5sos #ashton irwin #calum hood #luke hemmings #michael clifford #angie x 5sos #the 5sos show budapest

[writersdare]

5SOS Stories I Liked

Hi, I decided to make a little list of stories posted by other writers that I enjoyed reading the most. It's important to support your favourites, it brings inspiration even in the darkest days ♡ The list will be constantly updated.

Note: it's sorted from the newest for me to the oldest.

Ashton Irwin

Life Choices by @absolutewhore101

Moodswings by @littledrummeraussie

Broken Trust and Broken Hearts by @suchalonelysunflower

Calum Hood

thursday’s for the boys. by @littledrummeraussie

Had My Chances by @suchalonelysunflower

a year of almost by @emmyhem

Luke Hemmings

Wedding Bells by @suchalonelysunflower

You Are What You Love by @suchalonelysunflower

Helping Petunia by @talkfastromance4

Michael Clifford

any recommendations?

Masterlist | Taglist

#5sos imagines #luke hemmings imagine #calum hood imagine #ashton irwin imagine #michael clifford imagine #writersdare recommendations

[suchalonelysunflower]

Den of Vipers

Sinners and Saints: Chapter 1

Pairing: Mafia! Ashton Irwin x Fem! Hemmings! Reader

Word count: 5.8 k

Summary: Devastating news forces you to knock on the door of the last person you’d ever want to see.

Warnings: Death, murder, blood, guns, mentions of drugs, abuse, torture, kidnapping, language. Some gramatical errors (English is not my first language, I’m sorry)

Author’s Note: Hiya! Welcome to my new series. I won’t have a taglist anymore, so any way you can support this, whether it is a reblog, comment or like, would be very much appreciated ❤️ Hope you like it and Happy reading 🌻✨❤️

Series Masterlist

The roaring sound of the engine could be heard from your room, distracting you from the book you were so comfortably reading. A smile crossed your features as you jumped out of bed and made your way outside.

The sun was starting to set with the golden hour on the horizon. The image of your brother’s back walking out the door welcomed you for just a moment before you decided to jump on him, immediately making him drop the small amount of luggage he was carrying.

“Since when do you leave without saying goodbye?” You laughed, perfectly koaling your way along his broad back.

The perks of being a little sister: you’re never too old or too heavy for piggyback rides from your siblings.

Luke groaned a laugh “Since I figured I could be free from your ass a few minutes longer”

You jumped off him “You don’t mean that”

“Of course not,” He smiled, pulling you into a hug. “I was going to go up to your room in a few minutes”

It was always like this when he had to leave. Ever since he started helping your father at work, he’s been gone most of the time, barely having any time for you. It was no secret that Luke was your favorite amongst your brothers, nor did he hide the fact that you were his favorite as well. It was just the way it is, having just two years distancing you of age he became your best friend from the beginning. And it was not like you were allowed many friends either - or rather, no one wanted to be your friend because of your last name.

Luke got that, everyone in the family did. But growing up made it harder for you than your brothers. Being the only girl in the family does that.

“How long are you leaving this time?”

Luke sighed “Dad said it’s only for a week, but you know him”

“So I should expect you by the end of the month” You answered him, trying to hide the hurt in your smile “Can’t you come back early? At least for a few days?”

“Why?” He asked with a puzzled expression “Is there something important happening or…?” You punched him, he laughed “Of course I’ll try to be here for your birthday, little thunder”

And if Luke said he would try, he meant it.

He kissed your forehead before a loud honk could echo throughout the house.

“Someone’s impatient” You rolled your eyes.

“We gotta love him” Luke shrugged, grabbing his luggage and giving you one last look “Take care, Y/N”

“You, too! I’ll see you when you get back”

“I’ll bring you a present!”

You stayed at the door until you watched the car disappear through the gates. Little did you know what would happen next.

*

The brain works in funny ways. Always reminding you of things you would rather forget.

It’s been a week since “it” happened, but there wasn’t a day where you didn’t relieve it at least once.

The rain against the window; the loud knocks on the door. You were sitting in the kitchen, putting the last candles on your birthday cake, anxious about the promise Luke made you as you looked at the clock. How did they let the police just pass through the gate like that? Maybe the guards knew it was urgent. How you walked down the hall, careful just to eavesdrop without being noticed, just in time to watch your mother fall to her knees, her beautiful party dress ruined as the most horrifying sound left her mouth.

Then, it was all a blur.

People dressed in black. Your father having meetings after meetings behind closed doors, always catching your eye before the familiar click of the lock filled the silence. How the rain felt against your skin as the casket containing your brother's body was lowered down to the ground, never to be seen again. Your mother’s tears. The fake “I’m sorry for your loss” speeches. Your father's stone-cold expression as his hand covered your shoulder with some sort of affection. The silence that came afterward.

But it couldn’t end like that. It wasn’t right.

“We need to find him,” You told your father after the funeral.

He was sitting behind his desk, looking the oldest you’ve ever seen him. His eyes weren’t even focusing on you, almost as if he were also lost.

The first time he lost a son, Ben, your oldest brother, it made him cold as ice. It helped him build the empire he had now, grown on the blood of the enemies he took down along the way. You were just a child then, not older than thirteen, but you remember how fast things started to change. How friends stopped being friends, how business never meant the same thing again, how your mother stopped smiling as the jewels in her chest started growing.

But this is different.

“Dad,” You begged, hating how you sounded like a little kid again.

“There is nothing we can do, Y/N,” He said, coldly.

That’s who Robert Hemmings was, never sugarcoating anything. He tried, albeit your mother’s begging, to keep you out of the know of the family business. You were their only daughter, their little Angel, what good would it do to drag you into this world of madness and blood? It seemed like she didn’t know you at all.

“So you’re just going to sit there and do nothing?!” Your voice rose with every word.

Your father didn’t dignify you with a response, instead, he chose to sit back and close his eyes. For the first time in years, you realized just how old your father was getting. The creases upon his face were as deep as the dark circles under his eyes. His white hair was getting thinner by the hour, and the spots on his skin seemed to be growing.

For a second you wondered just how much time it had passed since you saw him smile, since you spent time with him like you used to when you were a little kid. But you were not a kid anymore, and the man in front of you did not seem like your father at all.

He seemed tired, he probably was after all of this. But you were tired as well, tired of so, so many things that you were done keeping quiet for.

“He is still out there,” You said, more quietly this time “I know he is”

“Y/N…” He sighed, rubbing the pads of his fingers on his temple, trying hard to come up with the right words before he exploded in a fit of anger as he usually does with his subordinates “You heard what the police said. You read the reports even though we told you not to-”

“The reports said they only found one body, dad. One!” You wanted to scream, to shake some sense back into him but for what? You could already see the lost battle before it even began “Maybe Luke wasn’t in the car, maybe-”

“The car was completely burned out! They found his jewelry, some bones- Y/N I don’t know how else to tell you! They’re dead!”

“Jack is dead,” You said somberly “Jack’s body is the only one that they found. Jack’s the one six feet below. Not Luke”

Robert sat back in his chair, shaking his head as you continued with your ranting.

“The bones couldn’t be identified, so it could be one poor soul that got the short end of the stick. It could be one of the collateral damage, as you call them, right dad? Could be fucking anyone! Luke could still be out there, he could be in trouble and we’re sitting here doing nothing-!”

A loud bang interrupted you. Your father’s fist was tense over his desk after he banged on it, not caring about the glass of water that tipped over and was now spilling over the edge of the mahogany. The vein on his neck was trembling as well as his jaw, but his eyes weren’t focused on you. Instead, he looked down, eyes wide and unreadable with every emotion hidden and swallowed by his pride.

Still, that didn’t scare you.

“Jack would’ve wanted for us to find him”

“Don’t you fucking talk about your brother” Robert spat.

“Someone has to!” You stood up, letting the foot of the chair drag against the floor. You have never stood up to your father before, but it was time to change some things around the Hemmings' household “You know I’m right”

“Y/N, Luke is dead,” He said, finally looking straight at you. The helplessness in his eyes took you by surprise “The sooner you accept it, the better. The ceremony for his remains will be-”

“No! That’s not him!” You nearly cried, but you promised yourself not to. Not in front of him. Not ever “I’m not going to mourn a stranger standing in his place”

Your father just shook his head, letting his hands distract him as he sorted out the papers on his desk.

“Dad,” You demanded his attention, leaning over his desk “Dad!”

No response, no reaction.

“Fine,” You said, voice laced with anger “I’ll go find someone who will pay attention to me”

You started to walk away, not looking back as your nails dug into the flesh of your palm, cutting the skin to distract you from crying out of rage and disappointment. This was not how you expected he would react. You didn’t expect him to give up just like that.

The merciless boss of one of the biggest mafia rings in the country… giving up for his son.

“Y/N,” He called out before you closed the door behind you, making you stop in your tracks but you refused to look at him “I’m thinking of selling the business”

Those words left you frozen in place, a drop of cold sweat dripping down your back as you turned to him, clear fear in your eyes.

“What?”

Robert, stoic as usual, didn’t look up as he signed over something.

“The Luccas made an offer” He explained in so little detail “I believe it’ll be for the best”

“For the best?!” You scoffed, feeling completely betrayed. A new low you believed your father could never be able to reach “For the best of whom? Your conscience? Breaking news, dad. You don’t have one. Cause if you did, you would never-”

You pressed your lips together, shushing the lump in your throat that threatened to escape in a sob. You took a deep breath and turned to your father.

“I hope you know this is the last time I’ll ever talk to you again if you dare to sell it to them. To him”

“That’s not your decision to make”

“Then consider me dead along with the rest of your children. You’re good at that”

The banging on the door was heard all over the house along with your shoes stomping on the floor.

*

He could laugh. Was it possible that they were that stupid?

It wasn’t a rare occurrence for Calum Hood and Michael Clifford to come at him for help, but really? Drugs?

“This has to be the stupidest thing you’ve ever asked me,” He said, both Calum and Michael shifted a little in their seats.

There they were, sitting in comfortable velvety cushion seats with leather handles; drinking a whiskey that was probably older than them; hands adorned with expensive jewelry and dressed in the finest suits they could afford. And they were afraid.

It was normal, of course, to feel intimidated by him. After all, his reputation preceded him as one of the deadliest men in the country. His successful deals gave him millions, and the ones that weren’t as successful still made him a threat. Men feared him or wanted to be him. Women fell at his feet on their knees and not just to beg for mercy.

There was no wonder why he was nicknamed “Lucifer” given that his eyes resembled the evil and cruelty of Alexander Cabanel’s painting. There was no good left in him, not that anyone knew. Not that he would show proof of that.

Ashton Irwin was a proud man, a respectable man. And the two men in front of him knew it, so why waste their time?

Both Calum and Michael were famous around town as well. The prodigal son, Calum Hood, became a household name after he took on the family business after holding his father at gunpoint to sign the papers for him. Soon, he enlisted Michael Clifford, a wizard in technology and heir to his own fortune - albeit a bit small - as his right-hand man. They made themselves known in the business, and even Ashton had to admit that it was surprising how quickly they went up the ladder amongst the other families he knew. But, as any rookies, they made a few mistakes and asked a lot of favors that they were now trying to amend.

“Calum, how’s your girl?” Ashton asked, leaning back on his chair, pretending that their request was never asked in the first place “Still running that bookshop back on Seventh Street?”

The smirk on Ashton’s face might not have meant anything else but a taunt to Calum. But the latter didn’t like the way he said it, almost as if he knew that his girl was his only weakness.

“She’s good” He answered, trying not to give him the satisfaction of seeing him affected.

Ashton hummed, looking at the third guy who was standing near the mirror on the wall.

“It’s not nice to bring security and bodyguards for a talk with friends,” He said.

“Is that what we are?” Michael asked, “Is that what we’re doing?”

“You tell me, Clifford. Cause I know for sure that if you came to me as partners then we wouldn’t even have this conversation” Calum opened his mouth to speak but Ashton silenced him “Because as you know, I don’t make deals with lost causes, and right now I’m seeing two in front of me”

“Ashton-”

“There’s a thing called “unsaid agreements” in this business, Calum, I know you’re familiar with that. And that is we don’t shit where we eat. We don’t sell drugs in this city, we don’t make deals with the locals, and for fuck’s sake we don’t owe favors to the ones that don’t comply with this agreement” He pointed his finger at the two men in front of him “And you two fuckers did the three things together”

“Well, what choice did we have?!” Calum asked “The Luccas were threatening to take over our territory and-”

“And I don’t give a fuck about the Lucass’” Ashton spat “In fact…”

In one swift move, he took a gun under his desk and shot the security guard right in the head.

“WHAT THE-”

“FUCKING CHRIST”

The two men yelled and jumped as the gun went off. Splatters of blood could be found in their clothing and faces, but nothing compared to the smear of blood and brains that now dropped from the mirror. Ashton, as usual, sat back in his chair with a smirk and hid the gun. Not a single drop of blood hit him or his desk.

“WHY THE FUCK DID YOU DO THAT FOR?!” Calum yelled, trying to wipe the blood from his clothes, showcasing his lack of knowledge of the business.

“Cause he was wearing a microphone you jackass!” Ashton spat “Hidden on the belt, look it up”

Michael leaned down and he in fact found a small microphone hidden behind the buckle. He sighed as he showed it to Calum. The two men looked back at Ashton with tired looks filled with anger and embarrassment.

“Another advice,” He said “Don’t fucking invite newbies to “important” meetings”

“You think you’re so smart…”

“I know I’m smart, Hood, and I’m the best there is in this business so don’t you fucking forget it. There’s a reason you came to me and not to the bloody Bermans” He got up and walked up to Calum, grabbing his chin and pulling his closer “I’m the only chance you have but I don’t even know if you two idiots deserve it. So, admit it, Hood”

Calum rolled his eyes, but Ashton tightened his grip.

“Say it” He nearly whispered, looking straight into his eyes.

“Jesus fuck, fine. We need you, okay?”

Ashton smiled, letting go of Calm and patting him on the cheek “Atta boy”

Just in time, someone knocked on the door before opening it. A young blond girl dressed in a white crop top and leather pants peaked inside, only showing half of her body but her whole face.

“Sir?”

“Lauren, not now”

“There’s someone here to see you”

Ashton rolled his eyes “I don’t have time for it right now. Whatever or whoever it is, it can wait till at least for the cleaning to come up”

“I don’t think it can wait, sir. She’s very insistent. I’ve been trying to hold her back for twenty minutes now” Ashton gave her a look that made her roll her eyes “She says her name is angel and that it’s urgent”

Ashton perked up at the name. Slowly biting the inside of his cheek, he nodded and turned back toward his desk.

He clicked his tongue before looking toward Michael and Calum, and then back to his assistant.

“Bring her in and send the cleaning team to at least remove that idiot, please” Lauren nodded and closed the door. He looked at his desk, putting away some papers as he nonchalantly said “You two, out”

“What?!”

“This isn’t over, Irwin-”

“Yes, Clifford it is” He stared at them but barely raised his head “Now get the fuck out before I make you”

Ashton could only hear a string of murmured curses and then the door closing with a bang. He smirked, “Angel,” He whispered to himself in a singing, mocking tone “What have you gotten into”

*

The blonde girl looked familiar. Her smile showed some kindness that you weren’t used to seeing around these places, even when you first encountered her behind the bar. She didn’t ask questions other than your name and the reason for your sudden visit.

“He doesn’t see people without a previous appointment,” She said, handing one more beer to the drunken men who slurred their thank you’s to her.

“What, is he a doctor?” You chuckled humorlessly, but the girl didn’t laugh along with you. her bright blue eyes just showed pity and understanding. You sighed “Look, tell him is angel, he’ll see me”

The girl shrugged “I can’t promise you anything, doll. Just wait here”

Once she was out of sight through a backdoor, you took your time to scan the place. Ashton did outsell himself with this one.

“The Den of Vipers” was the most popular club in the city, having opened ten years ago when Ashton took over the family business, it was still filled with clients who wanted to get lost for a while. Ashton was good at making people disappear, and it showed. This place screamed his name wherever you would look.

The floor was a dark marble with white gold lines separating the tiles. There were booths against the walls, all made of velvet cushions and leather. The lights were low, and changing from blue to purple, to green and then white again as the music played, it was impossible to keep track of the people there thanks to it. The bar itself was made of bulletproof glass, standing proudly and mockingly in the middle of the dancefloor, surrounded by different bodies lost in the mindless music the DJ of the night put on, almost in trance and unaware of the things that happened behind the scenes.

Of course, this whole charade of a humble business owner was just Ashton’s front to the authorities - even though they always seemed to be on his side, many times you heard your father complain about it - but you knew the reality. In fact, you were sure that when the girl came back, you’d be led through the backdoor and into the real building. You’d walk through careful hallways that will eventually lead you to the owner’s real office.

And that is exactly what happened once she came back and guided you through cushioned, sound-proofed walls covered in dark green velvet. The lights of the halls were dimmed, giving the feeling of being watched at all times like a haunted house. And you wouldn’t have been surprised if that was the case, after all, Ashton could be anything but careless when it came to a negotiation.

Which is exactly why you’re here.

When you got to the door of his office, you didn’t need to knock as the door opened immediately. Two guys dressed in black came out carrying a bodybag, leaving the door open. You rolled your eyes because, of course, Ashton would make a big show.

“I’ll take it from here,” You said to the girl, giving her a small smile that she mirrored.

The first thing you saw when you came into the office was the desk. It had nothing but some papers and a lamp, no sign of family pictures or hobbies. It was common for the “big bosses” to keep their workplaces clean of any personal relationships, but coming from Ashton it seemed pretentious - at least for you.

The mirror still had blood stains on it and you could tell they were still fresh, even so you didn’t look twice. Blood and guts are not something that shocks you anymore, and that realization came with a whole can of worms you weren’t ready to open up yet. There were some stains on the floor and what you could assume was gunpowder residue, so you were careful not to step on those.

“I’d apologize for the mess, princess. But you and I both know it doesn’t matter”

You turned to find Ashton with his back facing you as he fixed a drink on his personal mini-bar. His broad shoulders and back were covered with the finest of suits - from Milan, everyone and their mothers wore clothes from Milan - his hair was longer than the last time you saw him.

When he turned around, however, it seemed like nothing had changed.

He looked mature, of course, twelve years can do that to someone. But his eyes were still the same shade of hazel you remember, only a bit more sadist. He looked good, and somehow you hated that. It was time to put the past in the past where it belonged and stop the memories before they cloud your mind. Still, something inside you kept telling you, urging you to let yourself go. What did it matter how he looked? But that thought came late for the half smile he wore as he walked up to you, made you realize that he caught you staring.

“Here,” He said, handing you a glass of whiskey and coke. How’d he know your favorite drink? that was a question for another time “I assume you’re a big girl now, princess”

You glared at him as you swallowed the whole glass in one go, never taking your eyes off him and his unimpressed look.

“‘m not a princess” You said, dryly “And I can make my own drink, thank you”

You pushed past him and walked toward the mini bar, fixing yourself another drink. It was clear that you didn’t need it, your mind was screaming and begging for you to keep a clear head while you were ahead and in front of Lucifer himself. But something in his smile… the way his eyes still treated you like a child, so condescending, brought something in you. A chance to prove yourself in front of him.

All your life you had to prove yourself in front of men like him. In front of women who think they were better than you because their hands didn’t get dirty as yours did. In front of your parents. Of Luke… How long until they realize that you are where you belong?

Once you finished making your drink you turned back to Ashton. His eyes roamed your body, shamelessly, he licked his lips briefly before a smug grin adorned his face, eyes looking straight at you.

“I can see that,” He said, leaning against his desk “So, angel, haven’t heard from you in a while”

You rolled your eyes “Don’t call me that”

“You’ve never seemed to mind it before”

“I’m not here to reminisce about the olden days, Irwin” You spat.

Ashton whistled “So the bitch can bark! Impressive. Who would’ve thought that the balls of the Hemmings family were hiding behind their youngest?” Your face turned red in anger as your fingers tensed around the glass. Ashton noticed and tauntingly walked toward you with a smirk and leaning to whisper in your ear “But guess what? Y/N, you still can’t bite”

Your body became hot at his proximity. The smell of his cologne filled your surroundings as the rage - or something else, something new - inside your stomach kept boiling. But before you could push him away, he was already pulling apart and going back to sit at his desk.

“Tell me, Y/N, what is a Hemmings doing here all by herself? Has daddy finally kicked you out?”

You swallowed the lump in your throat, looking down unable to meet his eyes. You can’t believe you’re doing this, not with him. But there wasn’t any other choice.

“I need help,” You said, hating how those words sounded coming from you.

“Everybody does” He shrugged “Doesn’t mean they’re going to get it-”

“Ashton,” You finally looked back at him. The urgency of your voice and the fact that you called him by his name for the first time since you came here, took him by surprise as he listened “Jack’s dead”

Ashton’s eyes remained unchanged at your words, looking straight at you while his fingers played with his rings on the opposite hand. From his reaction, it was hard to guess that once upon a time he and the Hemmings’ siblings were inseparable, Jack being the closest of age to him and one of his first friends. Your eyes begged for him to do something, say something. To show you any indication that he might help.

The bond between your family and his broke a long time ago. You were barely a child, but you knew there was no going back to the summers filled with laughter and joy you all shared. In the blink of an eye - or at least that’s what it felt like as a child - The Irwins and the Hemmings were sworn enemies. And the friendship you had with Ashton vanished in thin air.

You and Luke took it the hardest, begging your mother to help you call the Irwin household so you could talk to Ash. Never understanding why suddenly her eyes filled with tears as she shook her head no and told you to play something else.

“He hates us,” Luke said to you once. It was another boring afternoon after you suggested calling him again. But Luke’s eyes were cold as ice, scaring you as he said “And we hate him”

And for a while that was it. You weren’t going to go against your brother, so the subject was finally dropped and you haven’t seen Ashton since. Or at least that’s what everyone thought.

But now, years after the fallout, you were hoping somehow that those words were a lie. Maybe Ashton could still hold some kind of fond memory of your families together. Anything to make you believe he might help you.

“My condolences,” He said after a while, no emotion hidden in his voice.

His comment made you angry, “Is that it?”

“What else do you want me to say?” He shrugged “People die every day, Y/N, it just the way it is”

“He was murdered”

“Shocker” Ashton scoffed with sarcasm “He was never the brightest of lads.”

“It was an ambush,” You said, unable to stop. “They were driving back home in the middle of the night when a string of bullets came raining down on the vehicle. Jack could barely escape before they found him and slit his throat. They burned the car afterward. And Luke-... Luke’s missing, Ashton”

Ashton nodded, pressing his lips in a thin line “He’s probably dead”

“No, he’s not”

And maybe it was because of your determination, or the look in your eyes when you said it, almost as if you believed it. But Ashton grinned at your statement.

“No,” He said, “He’s not”

A small breath of relief escaped your lips. Finally, somebody believed you.

“Would you help me?”

“No”

“What?!”

Ashton shrugged “Why would I help you, little Hemmings? What makes you so entitled to come here and ask for my help after what your family did?”

“My family?” It caught you off guard, what did he know that you didn’t?

“And why aren’t they helping to find their beloved golden child?” Ashton mocked, standing up and circling his desk until he was once again in front of you “All the stories we hear about the young, promising Hemmings… I’m sure they were not talking about you”

You felt your cheeks heat up at the comment, grip tightening around the glass, nearly breaking it.

“I am shocked that they didn’t start a search party already. Has daddy Hemmings opened his eyes to his karma yet? Why should I care? Matter of fact, why should you?”

“He’s my brother,”

“Cute. Not enough, but thanks for trying” He nodded toward the door “See yourself out, angel. This isn’t your castle”

Ashton turned around, not even giving you a second glance. Your hand reached out to him, grabbing him by the arm and making him stop. There were probably a few people who could do that to him, even fewer the ones who were still alive to tell the story. He turned his eyes toward you, curiosity and anger hidden in those hazel marbles staring back at you and then at your hand on his arm.

The tension was clear, but it was a little too late to rethink that mistake. If this was your only shot, then you had to take it. You owe that much to Luke.

“I- I have no one, Ash,” You said, looking down, ashamed of your statement and how weak you sounded.

Ashton didn’t say a word, he didn’t move away either. He stood there, waiting for you to continue. And for the first time in a long time, you felt relieved that someone was at least willing to listen.

“I left them,” You told him, looking straight into his eyes “I left my family because they did not believe me. They can’t find Luke, they won’t even try. He’s the only person I have left and I won’t rest until I find him, with or without your help”

Ashton grinned maniacally, a shadow appearing in his eyes as he looked down at you. Now you understand why they called him Lucifer. For he once was one of God's most beautiful angels, but temptation and his own ego were his doom. And, as he leaned down, you couldn’t help but be entranced by that wicked smile as he said, nearly whispering.

“And what are you willing to do, angel?”

It was a challenge, you could see it in his eyes. A bait to lure you into a trap. And you took it.

“Anything”

Ashton’s smile widened as he freed himself from your grasp and walked over to his desk to grab a set of keys, pressing a little button on it.

“If I’m going to help you, little Hemmings - and I’m not saying I will just yet - you’ll have to resign your name and what comes with it. I’ll be dead before I help a Hemmings out of the sheer kindness of my heart”

You rolled your eyes “You don’t have a heart, Irwin. Is that all you want? I told you I left my father”

“I don’t need a rogue princess fumbling with my business” Ashton scoffed, “So whatever I say goes. You’re working for me, Hemmings, not the other way around” He walked closer to you again, his chest nearly hitting yours “If I say go, you go. If I say we stop, you stop. If I say get out of my sight, you better pray your little feet move fast. I don’t care who you are, what you are, or what you represent. If you fuck with me, I’ll fuck right back. And I go hard, angel. No intentions of having any kind of mercy. Understood?”

You challenged him with a look, trying to figure him out. But time was running out, and you didn’t have any other option.

“Yes.” You said, dryly.

Ashton clicked his tongue “Yes, what?”

“Don’t push it, Irwin” You took a step back “So, we have a deal?”

The doors to the office opened and two large, muscly men dressed in suits came in and stood quietly but threatening at the door. You crooked an eyebrow and looked back at Ashton.

“Friends of yours?”

“Acquaintances,” He said, walking over to them and getting out the door, only stopping for a second “You comin’?”

The two men walked behind you as you followed Ashton through the halls that first brought you there. The image of his broad shoulders walking under the low lights and out toward the club shielded you from any distractions. He would sometimes glance over his shoulder, a teasing smile pulling at the corner of his lips when he noticed you were still walking a few steps behind him.

People at the club were sweaty and unashamed. Bodies grinding against one another and along the beat of a dark EDM song. Some women and boys would walk up to Ashton, letting their hands grace the skin of his face and neck or arms as they each seductively said hello to him. It seemed as if they were enchanted by him, moved by a spell of lust as their eyes would meet his. They wanted him, they all wanted him. Ashton would smile, say their names, and acknowledge them with a hello before moving to another person, another step toward the exit.

Ashton led you through a door that led to another dark hallway. The music sounded muffled through the walls, blocking your ears at the sudden change of environment. Ashton walked a few steps ahead before he stopped and turned around toward you, hands in his pockets as he looked at you and grinned.

“Now what?” You asked, annoyed “Any other fan of yours that we need to greet?”

Ashton chuckled and shook his head.

“No, just precautions”

“Precautions? Why would you-”

“Sorry, angel”

And with a snap of his fingers, the world went black.

*

#ashton irwin #5 seconds of summer #suchalonelysunflower #5sos #calum hood #michael clifford #luke hemmings #sinners and saints #ashton irwin smut #ashton iriwn fic #5sos fic #5 seconds of summer fanfiction #ashton x reader #don’t blame me for what you made me do #ashton 5sos #ashton 5 seconds of summer #ashton irwin fanfiction #5sos fanfic #5SOS smut #5SOS au #mafia au

[theshyspy]

you learn to crochet (headcanon) - h. s

a/n: is this inspired by my own inability to crochet?? yes and I’m suffering from it.

I cooked this together in an hour and had a lot of fun so lmk if you’d like more of these🫶🏻

reblogs and feedback is greatly appreciated (even a thumbs up)! 🦋

You refused to tell him what you were making as you came home with yarn and crochet-needles.

He’d told you a few days earlier how he needed a new beanie, and you took the task upon yourself to make him a new one. You’d carefully chosen a colour you knew he’d like and a material that wouldn’t itch.

You never showed him what you were making, always quick to hide it if he came home from the studio early or pause the youtube tutorial if he walked in the room while you watched it.

He almost begged for some sort of clue, impatient to see what you were doing.

But when you actually were done with it…

Glancing at the finished product, you contemplated on whether you could actually give it to him or not. It was obvious that you’d never crochet before, the whole thing oddly shaped and uneven. You actually felt embarrassed at the thought of showing it to him, or anyone for that matter.

But he was so eager, always asking you how it was going and if you needed him to get you more yarn.

So you figured you could give it to him and have it rest nicely in a drawer somewhere.

“Okay, so you don’t have to wear it. But I remember you said you wanted a new one, so I made… this. I don’t know if it even counts as what I was trying to make.” You chuckled nervously as you gave him the small gift.

He was so quick to open it, a grin spreading over his face as he ripped the paper away. He immediately put it on, and you had to stop yourself from cringing at how bad it looked.

“It looks weird, so you should probably still go out and get a new one.”

“Are you kidding me? I love it! I can’t believe you actually took the time to do this for me, that- I love you so much.”

He was so soft for you, heart swelling at the thought of your dedication to make it for him. He adored it and just wanted to wear it all the time, tell everyone how you made it for him.

He leaned down and kissed your forehead before wrapping his arms around your frame. “I really do love it, thank you so much.” 

Taglist:

@suchalonelysunflower @notanacousticsetcal @hoodhoran @5-seconds-of-bucky @japanchrry @tenaciousperfectionunknown

#IM SO SOFT FOR THIS HELPPPPPP #Harry Styles #Harry Styles fluff #Harry Styles heacanon #Harry Styles fanfic #Harry Styles fan fic #Harry Styles fanfiction #Harry Styles fluffly headcanon #headcanon #fluff #Harry Styles angst #angst #Harry Styles x reader #harry styles x you #harry styles x y/n #harry styles writings #harry styles fics #harry styles blurb #harry styles oneshot #harry styles one shot #harry styles fic #harry styles writing #harry styles fic rec #harry masterlist #harry fluff #fluff prompt #1d #1direction #hs1

[hemmohoran]

i was tagged by @arishemmo & @lover-of-mine i love you both 🫶🏻🫶🏻

share five songs you have on repeat right now:

1. HEAVEN BY NIALL HORAN

2. alien superstar by beyoncé

3. mrs all american by 5sos (don’t judge she’s fun)

4. flowers by miley cyrus

5. thin white lies by 5sos

i’m tagging (only if you want to of course): @suchalonelysunflower @wastelandcth @in-superbloom @hoodharlow @nostalgiabones @uservalentine @bandsanitizer @beyourbarbie

#STREAM HEAVEN BY NIALL HORAN #DO IT FOR ME #DO IT FOR MY ANGEL NIALL #love him with my whole heart #also thank you aerie and anna 🥹 i adore you both 🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻

[itisannak]

Fuck the Friendship (Calum Hood Smut / Ruin the Friendship Part 2)

Summary: Could Calum and (Y/N) ever fuck up their friendship more than they already have? (Smut / Penetrative Sex / Fingering / Teasing / Unprotected Sex) (Pregnancy / Hospital /  Calum being an asshole, again) (Words: 12k)

Ruin the Friendship  /   My Masterlist  /  My Ko-Fi

(Taglist: @heartbrokenharlot​  @suchalonelysunflower​)​

It was almost like we couldn't keep away from each other. Within a month of Luke's party, Calum and I were back on our original agreement. Only this time it feels right. It feels as if there is mutual respect for the condition we are under.

It felt right until my doctor called me with the results of my last check-up. I have been feeling exhausted lately, to the point my manager worrying about me having a burnout. So, without giving me much of a choice, she sent me in for a full check-up and an intense blood workup l just to make sure I am not going to crash any time soon. If I had to guess with my limited knowledge of medicine and medical history, I would say my iron levels have reached a new low. But of course, reality smacked me in the face during the call. "(Y/N), did you hear me?" My doctor asks, snapping me out of the shock. It takes me a moment to get into the state of gathering the words to respond to her. "Could you please repeat?" I ask, my mouth becoming dry as I recall what she has told mu, not a second ago. "I need you to book an appointment for an ultrasound. Your blood work came back positive for pregnancy. We need to confirm and see your state. Would you like me to book you in for Tuesday evening?" She asks me, speaking slowly so I understand her this time. "I am not sure Tuesday works for me. Can I call your office tomorrow?" I ask her, my voice shaking. "Of course." She assures me. "Thank you for your call. I will see you as soon as possible. "Goodnight, (Y/N). See you soon, take care." She hangs up, leaving me in silence for just a quick second.

"Is everything ok?" Calum's voice catches my attention. For a moment, I have forgotten he is here with me, that the call has interrupted our hangout. "Yeah... It was just my doctor." I brush it off, putting on a normal face. "Oh. Everything ok?" He asks me as I take a seat back on the couch. "Yeah, yeah... I just had a checkup. It is routine." "You are going in again on Tuesday?" He asks me and I shrug. "I have to check my schedule... I think I have a shooting for the movie on Tuesday." I reply, hoping the conversation ends here. "Is it something serious?" He asks me and I shake my head no. "My iron level is low. We have to see my options for supplements." I reply, fixing our shared blanket over my lap. "I am sorry, (Y/N). I really hope the supplements help." He places a hand over mine in support. "Oh, don't worry... I will be fine. Shall we continue with the episode?" I ask, hoping this will change the subject for good. "Of course." He smiles at me, pressing play on the show we are watching.

--

"There it is... Do you see that bubble in there?" The doctor asks me, pointing at the ultrasound. Up until this moment, I was hoping that my blood work was wrong. But the image on the screen, and most importantly, the blob that the doctor is so sure is the life that grows inside me, tear down my last remaining hopes. "I'd say based on the measurements, you are around 5 weeks... Does that sound correct based on your last period?" She asks me, turning to look at me and leaving the screen. Her face changes as she finds me with eyes welling with tears. "(Y/N)... Is there something you'd like to tell me?" She asks me and I shake my head no. "It is just so sudden ... I was not expecting this." I admit and she sighs in relief. "It is normal to feel overwhelmed. For now, we need to confirm how far along you are. And then we can talk about options. But let's take it one step at the time." She smiles at me encouragingly, giving me time to recollect. "I have to look at my app to tell you. I don't remember when my last period was." I reply, turning my head to look at the screen once more, in hopes I will see what the doctor sees this time. "I will print this for your record. We are done here. I will let you get dressed and I will meet you at my office in a bit." She presses something on the machine, before handing me a couple of napkins to clean the gel off my stomach.

It is like I am in a haze as if I am sleepwalking toward my doctor's office. My mind is all over the place, thinking of how I will even make it through the conversation with my doctor, and completely ignoring the one I will have to have with Calum in the very near future.

The doctor is sitting behind her desk, my file in her hands. I take a seat on the armchair across of her, picking up my purse and fishing my phone out of it. I silently open the period tracking app and look for the date of my last period. "I had my last period 2 months ago. I am sorry, I didn't even realize it was this late...I have been working a lot lately." I am not even sure if I am apologizing to my doctor or myself. "There is no need to apologize, (Y/N). Now, the growth seems to match your ovulation window. We need to complete this form. It is a health history of both you and your partner. Just so we have an idea of what to look out for." She shows me the form and I nod my head. "Can I take this home and bring it over next time?" I ask her, scanning over the questions. "Of course. Would you like to go over your options? I want to assure you that I will support your decision and I am here to help you pick the safest options." "I would like to talk with my partner first if that ok." I nearly stutter. "Of course. Now, until you reach a decision, I would like you to take some prenatal vitamins. They will help you with fatigue and nausea. You will book an appointment with my nurse for 2 weeks from today when we will have a checkup and discuss your decision. Make sure you have this form filled in and with you. Any questions?" She asks me and I shake my head no. I am sure I have a million questions, but my head is heavy from the day and nothing comes up.

The moment I am safe in my car I decide to rip the bandaid and call Calum. For obvious reasons, I don't plan on telling him over the phone. It would be too much of a shock for him, so face to face is the only option. "Hey... You are the last person I expected to get a call from today. What's up?" Calum asks me cheerfully. "Hey. Am I bothering you?" I ask, bringing my thumb to my mouth, biting onto the cuticle. "No, no... I am just chilling. Are you ok?" He asks me and I hum. "Can we meet?" I ask him back. "My place or yours?" He asks cockily. "Yours. Can I come over now?" "I will be waiting for you." He chuckles just before I hang up.

There is not a bit of hesitation when I ring Calum's doorbell. If there is someone I want to talk with at the moment, it's him. Hopefully, his mind is more sober than mine currently so he will help me see things clearer. "Hey. Come in. Would you like a drink?" He asks me, motioning me to come through the door. "No, thank you. Can we talk?" I ask him, standing before him awkwardly. He gestures for me to head to the living room, furrowing his eyebrows at my seriousness. "You seem a bit weird today..." He comments, following suit behind me. I take a seat on the couch, resting my hands on my lap. "I went to the doctor today." I begin and hums. "And? Did they give you the iron supplements?" He asks and I shake my head at him. "I am pregnant..." I let out, looking at him for a reaction. "What do you mean you are pregnant?" He asks me, all color slipping from his face. "I mean I am expecting a baby. In about 34 weeks." I reply; I get the shock, he needs some time to digest the news. "Are you sure?" He asks me, covering his mouth with his hand. "They saw it on my blood work, and I had an ultrasound today to confirm it. And my last period matches how far along I am." I reply and he shakes his head. "What are you going to do?" He asks me, making me look at him in confusion. "You mean what are WE going to do..." I correct him. "We? Are you sure it is mine?" He asks me. I have to blink before I answer, gathering as much calmness as I can muster. "I wouldn't be here if I wasn't sure." I say through gritted teeth, closing my eyes to recollect myself. "Are you absolutely sure this is mine?" He stretches his words, putting emphasis on each one as he points at me. I scoff in fake surprise, picking up my purse that rests by my side on the couch. "You know what ... You can fuck off. I am done here. Forget I even told you." I get up from the couch, walking away from Calum. "Come on... We have to talk about this." He protests, following right behind me. "No, we don't. It's mine. My pregnancy, my baby. I don't want to see you again." I spit at his feet, slamming the door as I get out of his house. And there I was, hoping he would be sober for the both of us. I don't need him; never have, never will. And no matter what I do with this pregnancy, I don't need him to reach that decision.

--

My palms rest on top of my stomach as I lay on the examination table, waiting for my doctor to join me. The 2 weeks between my checkups went by in a flash and now I am here again, anxious to see if everything is alright with the bubble. "It's good to see you again, (Y/N). How are you feeling?" She asks, leaving her clipboard aside. "Good. Still a bit tired, a bit dizzy, but overall good." I reply, fixing up my shirt to show her my stomach. "First-trimester typicals. Are you ready to take a look?" She asks me, picking up the bottle of gel. "Will we hear the heartbeat this time?" I ask. I have indulged in reading What to expect when you are expecting lately, preparing for motherhood. "We will. You are at 8 weeks, so we should have a loud and clear beat." She replies, moving the wand on my stomach. "About the form, the one you told me to fill in last time...I filled in my history, but the father is out of the picture." I state, fiddling with my fingers. "We can talk about all that later. Now let's focus on seeing the fetus." She smiles at me, turning the screen so I can get a better look at it. "Here we have it. It's like a little bean. If you take a look here, you will see it moving its little leg." She points out at the screen. "Moving already?" I ask, trying to make sense of what is on the screen. "You won't feel it for at least 2 months more. But the fetus is moving, testing the newly formed limps. Would you like to hear the heartbeat now?" She asks me and I nod my head. It sounds like a horse running, fast and with tempo. "Is it supposed to be that fast?" I ask and she hums. "No need to worry, I don't see anything startling. Everything is as it should be." She takes the measurements of the fetus on the screen before printing the ultrasound picture. "Take a moment to get ready and I will see you back in my office in a bit." She hands me a couple of tissues to clean up the gel before I sit up. "See you in a bit..." I sigh, wiping off my stomach.

"Can I take a look at the form?" My doctor asks me as I take a seat on the armchair before her desk. I reach for the paper in my purse, handing it to her. She studies it carefully, leaving it down after a moment. "Is the father aware of the pregnancy?" She asks me softly. "He is. He is just not in the picture." I reply, shrugging my shoulders. "I see. Have you decided how you are going to continue with the pregnancy?" She asks me and I hum. "I am keeping it. There are a lot of great single mothers out there. I can do it, and I have the resources to do so." I announce and she nods at me with a warm smile. "Since we don't have the father's history, we will have to keep an eye on a couple of things. Do not worry, though. There is nothing that worries me currently. We will book an appointment for the next month, during which you will give a urine and blood sample. Whatever you need, you will call me. You continue taking the prenatal vitamins and taking good care of yourself." "Should I be on the lookout for anything? I have already cut out coffee and booze and raw fish. Should I cut out anything else?" I ask her, picking out a little notepad I have to journal my symptoms. The older woman reaches across her desk to place her hand on top of mine. "You are ok as you are. I just want you to take it easy work-wise. No dangerous scenes and no rush movements. And lots of rest. That's all." She assures me, patting my hand softly. "OK. It's just... I am constantly worried that I am screwing up." I admit and she chuckles. "It's normal during the first pregnancy. But you are doing great. Try doing something that relaxes you. Stress is not going to help you or your baby." She comments and I take in a deep, calming breath.

--

At 4 months I expected to at least have a small bump. My stomach however is still as was, which up until today bugged me; I just need the visual reassurance that everything is going smoothly. But as it turns out, the lack of a bump today works to my advantage. "It feels like I haven't seen you in eons... "Crystal comments as she plates a few appetizers for the dinner table. "I know. But it has been such a hectic period. The show, the movies, the interviews...I don't remember when my last free day was." I reply. And it is the truth, just half of it. "Shouldn't it be less hectic now that we are so close to Christmas?" She asks me and I shake my head no. "Now it's the period we actually amp up. I don't know when it was the last time I had a chill Christmas since I got into this industry." I reply and she coos at me. "I am actually surprised you are even here at this time of the year. Aren't you guys heading to Aussie to spend Christmas with Michael's family?" I ask her and she shakes her head at me. "No one is heading back this year. The guys are working on the new album, so we are staying. What about you? What are your plans?" She asks me and I shrug. "I will attend a couple of events for PR, but that's it. I am too tired for anything else." I reply, letting out a sigh of hope. I am looking forward to a few days of just rest. My doctor warned me of how exhausted I would be once in my second trimester, but this is nothing like I expected. I have to take naps in between takes and I have to be in bed straight after I get home from shooting or I am a walking corpse the next morning. Not that I am in any better state if I sleep early, but my energy is dedicated to forming this tiny little human, so there is no much left for me to do but sleep. "Earth to (Y/N)... Are you here with us...?" Crystal nearly demands my attention. "Sorry. I spaced for a bit. What were you saying?" I ask her, turning to look at her. "I asked if you could take this to the table. Are you ok?" She asks me and I hum, picking up the wooden salad bowl.

I try to make a beeline to the table, avoiding Calum who from the moment I arrived has been trying to pull me aside. Focusing a bit too much on my balance while carrying the bowl, I don't realize that Calum was in the corner, not until his hand is wrapped around my wrist.

"What are you doing?" I ask trying to pull away from him. "You've been avoiding me." He states in an almost whisper/shout. "Yeah, you figured." I try to pull my wrist from his grip but he only tightens it. "You are hurting me." I groan, making him gasp as he realizes how hard he is holding me. He lets go of my wrist and holds his hands up to show me he is not here to hurt me. "I just want to ask how you are." He awkwardly states, looking at his feet. "I am fine." I reply, almost hugging the bowl. "What about the... pregnancy? What did you do with it?" He whispers, looking around to make sure no one is listening. "It's none of your business. I told you, it was my problem" I reply coldly, avoiding eye contact. "Was?" He asks me. I can't tell why he has such a somber tone. I know for fact he was not hoping to become a father. "Leave me alone." I spit out, trying to make it sound like a warning. I rush to walk away, looking for a plan to avoid him until dinner. He won't dare ask at the table, in front of our friends.

My fair luck has it that Calum won't bother me until we all sit at the table. His gaze is on me though, examining my every move. Who is he trying to convince? 2 months went by since I told him that I am pregnant and he hasn't even bothered calling me to talk about this. "Would anyone like some more wine?" Michael asks, looking at everyone at the table. I shake my head no with a polite smile, earning a hum from the host "You haven't even touched your glass. Would you like to switch to white?" He asks me. "I am on antibiotics..." "She is pregnant." Before I could even finish my excuse, Calum chimes in, making my eyes go wide. The whole table freezes and I have to fight tears. "Is it true?" I am not sure who asked the question; all I do is focus on not having a panic attack. "It is.'' Calum replies; if looks could kill, the one I am throwing at him currently would have him dead. "How do you know?" Crystal asks. "She is pregnant with my baby." Calum admits. All I want is for the earth below my feet to swallow me whole. "Your baby? (Y/N) what is he talking about?" Ashton asks me. "Are you happy now, Cal? Do you enjoy humiliating me?" I ask him, sniffling. "That was not my goal." He replies. "Then what is your goal?" I snap. "I don't know, (Y/N)..." "Wait... Are you guys together? Were you ever together?" Michael sounds confused. "No... God no..." I mumble. "We used to be friends with benefits." Calum adds. "Is that the reason why you broke up with Javi?" Crystal, ever so the biggest fan of Javi asks. "No. Calum and I were over before I got with Javi. And we started sleeping together again after Javi and I were over." I reply, wiping away the stray tears that rolled down my cheeks. "I assume this pregnancy wasn't planned..." Luke states and I nod. "It wasn't. And this whole thing wasn't planned. I don't know why all of the sudden Calum chose to claim this baby as his. He really didn't want to believe it was his when I told him. Now if you excuse me, I am not feeling very well." I stand up from my seat, leaving the table and heading to the bathroom.

I just want to hide in here forever, the idea of slipping out through the backyard doesn't sound so bad right now. It is humiliating, having my private life out like that is a nightmare. "Can you please open the door?" Calum knocks on the door rapidly. I decide not to respond, hoping he will give up and walk away. "I will knock it down if you don't open up..." He threatens, sounding serious. "You wouldn't dare destroy Michael's house." "Would you like to try me?" He asks me and I groan. I get up from the edge of the tub, unlocking the door and letting Calum walk in. "Are you ok?" He asks me, closing the door for some privacy. "You care?" I ask him back, folding my arms before my chest. "Of course I care. Are you ok?" He asks me. "I am humiliated." "I am sorry." He apologizes, walking closer to me. "What were you thinking?" I ask him. "I wasn't. I was just excited you kept the baby, and I didn't realize I said it out loud. And then there was no turning back." He admits and I shake my head at him. "Why did you even get excited? You freaked out when I told you and you doubted it is even yours." I point out and he sighs. "I can't even tell you how badly I regret that day." "Why didn't you reach out to me then? Why didn't you call and apologized?" "I felt so guilty, I couldn't. I was hoping to bump into you. I was hoping to see you having a baby bump so I would realize you have kept our baby. But you showed up today flat as ever and I couldn't tell. Why don't you have a bump?" He asks me and I shrug. "I have... You just can't tell over the clothes. It's a small one, but it is still early "I explain. "At 4 months the book says you should be showing." He mumbles. "What book?" I ask, tilting my head to the side. "The What to expect one. I started reading it a month ago." "You didn't even know whether I was still pregnant or not." "I just wanted to be prepared." He admits, shrugging his shoulders. "Prepared for what?" I ask him. "I want to take responsibility. You are having our baby and I want to be part of it. I want to be all in." "You don't have to pressure yourself to take up that role. It was my decision to keep it. It is my decision to raise it. I don't expect anything from you anymore." "I know. I still want to be part of the baby's life. I know you'll ask why I didn't say that earlier, and I honestly don't know the reason. But I know that I have been catching myself becoming too excited about becoming a dad." He states. I am not sure what to say so I just stay quiet. "I think I am heading home. I am sure the guys will understand." I sigh, rubbing my temples. "I'll drive you home." He offers, gesturing me to follow him. "You don't have to. I have my car here." I brush it off, but he doesn't badge. "We'll take your car, then. I will pick up mine tomorrow. Come on, it is the least I can do after today." He insists, looking at me in the eye. I sigh, giving up and following him.

The walk to the dining room to gather my stuff feels more like a walk of shame. I can feel everyone's eyes on me, watching my every move. "I am driving (Y/N) home. I'll pick up my car tomorrow. Thanks for the invite tonight, sorry for the tension." Calum says as he picks up his things. "Are you feeling ok, (Y/N)?" Luke asks me softly. "Yeah, just a little tired. Thanks for tonight, guys. Hope we can do this again soon."

Calum drives quietly and carefully, not taking his eyes off the road. I lean my head against the window, placing a hand on top of my stomach and relaxing. "Are you ok?" He asks me and I hum. "Just sleepy... Part of the pregnancy package, you know." I reply and he nods his head. "Is everything ok with the pregnancy? Are you and the baby alright?" He asks me. "Last checkup showed we are both ok." I assure him. "Do you know the gender?" "I decide not to find out. It doesn't matter anyway." I shrug, closing my eyes. "Do you need anything? Sorry, I meant, can I help with anything?" "I am fine. But thank you, I appreciate it." "If you need anything, at any time, just call me. I will be there for anything." He states, his voice serious and well-paced. "Thank you, Cal." I have to touch the roof of my mouth with my tongue to stop myself from becoming emotional over the literal bare minimum, but my damn hormones are on an all-time high lately.

--

(Calum's POV)

Ashton passes me a cup of coffee as he takes a seat next to me on the couch, leaning his head on his palm. Tiredness is evident in him; he has been recording vocals for the past 2 hours, and this is his first real break of the day. "How you holding up?" I ask him, watching him bring his mug to his lips. "I'll survive. You?" He asks me and I shrug. "It's alright. I am not even tired yet." I reply with a sigh. "You look pretty spent..." He mumbles and I hum. "I don't know. I feel a bit bad. The whole thing with (Y/N) the other day... I feel guilty. I didn't want to humiliate her, really. And after that she was really hurt. It was so awkward between us." I explain and he sighs. "You really did catch everyone by surprise. It dropped like a bomb." He comments and I nod my head. "I know, I know. But I had no idea if she had kept the baby and I just got so excited when I realize she was not drinking because she was still pregnant... I can't even describe it." "You really do want this child." He gasps and I nod my head with a small smile. "I can't even tell you how much I want it. It's like, there is a little bit of me and a little bit of her in this child. I am going to be a father, it's surreal." I admit and he scoffs playfully. "What?" I ask him, furrowing my eyebrows. "Nothing... Just... Are you in love with her?" He asks me and I shake my head at him, sitting forward a bit. "With (Y/N)? No. Friendship is easy with her and she is an amazing person. And sex is good, I mean, was good. But I don't think she could ever be with someone like me." I reply and he chuckles. "I didn't ask you how she feels. I asked you how you feel." He insists. I bite my tongue, trying not to say anything that will sound too stupid. I don't know the answer, I wish I did. But I can't possibly explain that to someone without sounding utterly lunatic.

My phone ringing saves me from having to come up with an excuse for Ashton. I sigh, thanking whoever is calling for this gift. "It's (Y/N)." Ashton announces, handing me my phone from the coffee table. I knit my eyebrows together; it is completely unexpected for her to call me. She hasn't done so for months now. "Hey. What's up?" I ask her, sitting up from the couch to head somewhere a bit more privately. "Can you come over my place?" She asks. She doesn't sound well, her voice is heavy and almost out of breath. "Is everything alright?" I ask her and she whimpers. "I fell. I think I sprained my ankle. But I fell on my stomach and I am scared. I need someone to take me to the hospital. Can you please come over to pick me up?" She asks. "Don't move. I am on my way. You are going to be ok." I rush to pick up my stuff, my heart pounding in my chest. "I can call a cab if you are busy." "No, no. I am coming over. 15 minutes max. Hold still and only try to get up when I ring your doorbell." I insist, finding my car keys and wallet on the end table next to the couch I was sitting on a few minutes ago. "Thank you." She mumbles. "Is everything ok? You look yellow." Ashton comments. "I have to go. I'll call you later." I practically run out of the door, my heart pounding out of my chest.

(Y/N's POV)

"I am sorry." I sigh as Calum helps me through the exit of the hospital. "Why are you sorry?" He asks me, holding me by my waist so I lean onto him. "I called you for nothing. It's just a sprained ankle." I explain and he chuckles. "I am glad you called me. And I am glad it is just a sprained ankle. I really want you to feel free to call me even for a funny sneeze. Can you stay here? I'll bring the car right there so you don't have to strain your ankle walking all the way there." He points to the back of the parking lot and I nod, fixing my cardigan closer to my body. "I'll just lean on the wall." I smile at him. He takes a second to observe me, staying quiet as his eyes dart from my face down my body and back, but then shakes his head, like he is trying to snap out of it, and walks away.

He has been my rock today, picking me up and carrying me to his car from my apartment, talking with the doctors to make sure the baby and I are alright, and holding me sane throughout the few hours stay at the hospital. If his words were not good to me until now, his actions today are a good vouch for his commitment to becoming a father.

Within a couple of minutes, Calum stops the car before me, getting out of the driver's seat and strutting to help me get in the car. "I could have taken a couple of steps by myself." "The doctor said you should be resting your foot." He reminds me and I groan. "I will be fine for a couple of steps." I protest as he helps me sit on the passenger seat, sliding it a bit back so I can stretch my legs. "You are quite stubborn, you know." "I know. It is one of my best qualities." I cock an eyebrow and he shakes his head.

He pulls over midway to my house, turning on the blinkers and shifting on his seat to look at me. "What?" I ask after a moment of his staring. "I want you to come and stay with me. At least until you give birth. I don't think i have ever been as scared as today. I can't even imagine how I would feel if something more serious had happened. I want you to come stay with me, so I can take care of the both of you." He announces, not breaking eye contact. I nod my head, feeling a weight lifting off my shoulders. "It was scary for me too. Yeah, I'd like that, I'd like to stay with you." I admit and he smiles at me. "Ok then." He clears his throat, turning back to the steering wheel and pulling into the road. "Wait, you mean now?" I ask him, watching as he takes an exit that doesn't lead to my place. "Of course." "I don't have anything with me. How am I supposed to move to your place without even the essentials?" I ask him. "Oh, (Y/N)... Don't overcomplicate things. You'll make a list of what you need tomorrow morning and I will pick it up." "What about tonight?" I ask, crossing my arms before my chest. "Come on... I can give you whatever you need." It is really infuriating that he leaves no space for me to pick up a fight. I bite the inside of my cheek and sulk, leaning back on my seat and keeping my arms folded before me.

"The bed in my room is more comfortable, you should take that. I will be in the guest room." Calum helps me walk into his house, throwing his keys on the console. "I don't want to take you out of your bed. I will be just ok in the guest room." I assure him, but Calum, stubborn as he is, shakes his head at me. "You are sleeping in the main room. End of discussion." He insists. I roll my eyes at him but decide against protesting him tonight. "Who's the stubborn now?" I ask him and chuckles. "One thing's for sure... We'll make a hell of a stubborn baby." He mumbles, causing a smile to spread on my face.

"Are you comfortable?" Calum asks me, fixing a pillow under my sprained ankle. "I am. Thank you." I reply. I don't think it is possible to be surrounded by more pillows, but Calum seems dedicated to adding as many as it takes to make me feel like sleeping on a cloud. "If you need anything, just shout." "Will you hear me? You are not the lightest of sleepers." I tease and he glares at me playfully. "Rude..." "Is it really rude if it's honest?" I tilt my head to the side, cocking my eyebrow a little. Calum sighs, staring at me for a second before getting up from the bed. "Get some sleep. You need it." He leaves the room, turning the lights off, leaving the lamp on the bedside table to shine a light.

"Good morning, sunshine..." Calum sings, getting into my temporary bedroom. "Oh, you are awake already?" He asks me, furrowing his eyebrows. I lock my phone and set it aside on the bed, smiling at Calum who is carrying a tray in hand. "I have been up for an hour or so... I am making a list of the things I need from my place. Is that for me?" I ask, peeking over at the tray. "Yeah. I didn't want you getting out of bed for breakfast, so here..." He explains, leaving the tray on the bed. I take a look and pick up the mug of hot, steaming, delicious coffee and with a heavy heart leave it on the bedside table. "Can't have coffee..." I mumble, pointing at my bump. "Oh, shit. I forgot. I should get some decaf..." "No, don't bother. All decaf does is make me crave real coffee. I'll have the juice." I pick up the glass and take a sip. He watches me carefully as I start my breakfast, sitting on the edge of the bed. "What?" I ask him, picking up a strawberry from the bowl. "What?" He asks me back. "You are staring." I comment and he looks at me defensively. "No, I am not. I am not staring." "Yeah, you are. You have been staring at me since yesterday. First at the hospital, then on the drive here, and now this... What's up with that?" I ask, taking a bite. "I am not staring. "You are. It feels like you are judging my every move, honestly." I point out and he shakes his head. "I am not. And I am not staring. End of discussion." He snaps, making me look at him taken aback. "I am sorry. I didn't mean to snap. I am just overwhelmed with everything, it is not your fault. Can you give me the list?" He asks me and I nod, deciding not to hold it against him. He looked really tensed yesterday, on the edge until the doctor told us the baby was ok. "Sure. I'll AirDrop it. Would you like some?" I ask, offering him a piece of toast. "No, thanks. It's yours." "I don't like eating alone, you know that." I insist and he sighs, grabbing an orange slice. "How were you eating when you were staying at your place?" He asks. "I meant I don't like being the only person eating when I am with others. Gee, you don't let anything drop, do you?" I ask and he smiles, shaking his head at me. "Nope. So, you finish with breakfast, and I will head to your place for your things, then I will be back here. Any requests for dinner?" He asks me. "Don't you have to head to the studio?" I ask and he shakes his head no. "I called Ashton yesterday and told him I won't go back until Monday. He understood, so we moved things around a bit. What about you? Aren't you filming?" He asks me. "I called the producer when I woke up and told her I won't be able to film for a couple of weeks. And then we will have to work around the bump, which means refitting and props and I hate it... I couldn't have been taken off at the worst moment than this." I groan, feeling my eyes brimming with angry tears. "Hey, hey, sweetheart. It is alright. Let's be thankful it is just a sprained ankle and nothing worse. You'll take 2 weeks off, rest up, and then I am sure you will figure it out. Everything is going to be fine, I promise you that." He brings a hand to cradle my face, running his thumb over my cheek. He is soft and soothing, and I feel my stomach fill with butterflies. Had he not treated me as he did in the past, I would have sworn I am in love with him. But he did treat me badly, and I know this whole thing is only due to the stupid pregnancy hormones. All the while it took me to attribute the butterflies to the right reason, I was staring at his lips, plump and soft, inviting for kissing. But this is also due to the hormones making me yearn, so I flick my eyes back to the tray before me. "You should FaceTime me once you are at my place. I can guide you to my stuff." I clear my throat as Calum retrieves his hand. "Yeah, yeah... Sure. And whatever you remember, you should just tell then, I'll pick it up." He mumbles, flustered as he forces his eyes to move to his lap.

(Calum's POV)

"Is (Y/N) ok?" Ashton asks as we settle for lunch at a little cafe near the studio. "She is alright, resting up. Thank God it was just her ankle. She is going back to filming next week." I reply, taking a look at the menu card. "It must have been scary. I can't even imagine how you two handled that." "It was... At least until we reached the hospital and were told the baby was ok. After that, it was like we both took a breath." I admit and he hums. "How is the whole living together going?" He asks me and I shrug. "It is actually better than expected. And she is super chill now. I am thinking that maybe she should permanently move in, so I can help with the baby and be present for it once it's born. I don't know, we obviously need to talk about it and figure it out, but I have been thinking about it since she moved in." I reply, settling on an avocado sandwich for lunch. "Hm..." Ashton simply hums. "What? What is with all the humming?" I ask him and he shrugs. "I don't know, Calum. You used to sleep with her, then she got a boyfriend and per your last confession, you got jealous. So jealous that you didn't want to see each other for weeks. Then you cut it off with every other girl you were seeing and once (Y/N) was single again, you went back to sleeping with her. You 'broke up' again because you got scared of becoming a father, but got excited when you realized she didn't get an abortion. And now you two are all good, living together, playing house, and thinking of making it permanent, but you won't admit your feelings for her. And don't pretend you don't feel anything and that you only see her as a friend, because I swear to God, I am up to here with your bullshit." Ashton goes on and on with his little monologue, which by now is pretty comical. "Stop messing with my head. Ever since you asked me last week, I have been staring at her like a creep. She thinks I am judging her." "I am messing with your head? You are about to become a father, the least you can do is be honest with yourself. And with (Y/N). It is a little weird you want to live with her, raise a baby with her, and like having sex with her but you can't admit to yourself that you like her. I think you are the one messing with your head." He defends himself, snatching the menu from before me. "Can we talk about something else? I am enough of a mess as is." I beg, earning another hum from him.

The house is quiet when I enter it, not that I was expecting elsewise. However, Duke is not there to greet me as he usually does, which is conspicuous. I walk towards the living room, easily spotting him laying on the couch along (Y/N) who is petting him hazily. "Hey there." I greet making them both turn their head towards me. "Hi. You are home early." (Y/N) says sleepily. Duke doesn't move from laying on her lap, paying little attention to me. "There wasn't much to do at the studio, honestly. Mostly re-recording some parts. Hey, bub... What about paying a little attention to me? What's up?" I use a soft voice to the dog, who only moves his eyes. "He is listening to the baby. It's far more interesting than paying attention to you..." "He is listening to the baby? Lucky him..." I mumble and (Y/N) chuckles. "You can too if you want to. The baby is moving a lot today, lots of kicks too." She invites me, laying more on the couch. "May I?" I ask her and she nods, smiling softly at me. I gently move Duke from her lap, leaving him on the floor and causing him to grumble at me. Ignoring that, I press my ear on (Y/N)'s stomach, focusing until I hear what I am looking for. It makes me giggle, the little spring sound and sensation feeling weird and primitive. "Fuck..." I whisper and (Y/N) laughs. I bring a hand to the side of her stomach, trying to submerge myself in this sensation. "It's weird, isn't it?" She asks me and I nod. "Mindblowing. That's our baby..." I point out and she hums. "It is. You can talk to it if you'd like. It is good for building a bond." She explains. "I don't know what to say." "Say whatever. It's good for the baby to hear your voice." "Ok... Hi, this is your daddy." I deepen my voice, making (Y/N) laugh loudly. "Jesus..." "What?" "You don't have to deepen your voice. You are not trying to intimidate it. Just, be casual." She instructs. Her hand moves to my hair, stroking through my locks as I go back to pressing my lips on her stomach. "Your mom says I should be more casual, but I honestly don't know how I am supposed to do that. I am excited to be talking to you, I hope you can hear me. It is comfortable in there, isn't it? Mommy's taking good care of you. And you have a protector on the outside for when I am gone, you have our Duke, who is much in love with your mama, and you. You are going to be a wonderful little person, I know that, I am going to make sure of that. Love you already..." I coo, pressing my lips on (Y/N)'s bump. I bring my eyes to meet (Y/N)'s, finding her tearing up. "What is it?" I ask her, sitting up and hovering over her to get her face in my hand. "(Y/N), what is it?" I ask her again, softening my voice. "It's nothing... It's just the hormones and the tension and the tiredness. I am fine, I swear." She hides her face with her hands, but I pry them away and grip her chin. "It's not nothing. It's the hormones, the tension, and the tiredness. It is something." I state, making her groan. "Now what is it?" I ask her with a soft sigh. "You have to stop being so soft and kind with me." She states and I look at her with a furrow. "Why is that? You'd rather me going back to being an asshole?" I ask her and she nods. "Yeah, I'd much rather that..." She mumbles. "And why is that?" "Because the hormones, the tension, the tiredness, and you being so soft is a deathly combination." "Deathly?" I ask. "Yeah, the combination is going to make me fall for you." She admits, her face becoming red hot. "And would that be too bad?" I ask her and she nods her head. "None of us need that right now." "Need and want are two very distinct things." I point out. "What is that supposed to mean?" "Do you want to fall for me? Do you want us to fall for each other?" I ask her, rubbing my thumb over her cheek. "Calum..." She sighs softly. "It is a very simple question, Ms. (Y/L/N). Do you want to fall for me?" "You don't want that." "You don't get to speak on my behalf." I mumble, leaning closer to her. Her breath hitches, and her lips part in surprise. Good, that was the reaction I was looking for. "Calum..." She moans. "Moan my name, one more time..." I almost beg her. "We shouldn't..." She moans again, her eyes searching mine for any inhibitions. "You and I have a history of not doing what we should do. So, shoulds and shouldn'ts are not the best criteria for this." I remind her, my thumb grazing over her bottom lip.

And just as her breath becomes funny, her phone rings, and I have to move away from her. I run a hand down my face, cursing whoever interrupted us as (Y/N) picks up her phone. "Hi, Sarah... No, I am fine, I am fine..." (Y/N) says fast, pressing her hand on her cheek as she stands up and slowly moves a bit further.

"There you are..." I state, finding (Y/N) sitting on the edge of the bed, applying some lotion on her legs. "I needed a shower. Um, I don't want to sound like a pig, but what's for dinner?" She asks me, avoiding looking me in the eye. "I was actually looking for you about that. I am thinking of ordering pasta. Any preferences?" I ask her and she hums. "Meatballs on spaghetti, sauce on the side. Extra cheese. Like, a lot of extra cheese." She replies and I chuckle. "I didn't expect you to reply so fast." "Eh, I have been thinking about dinner for a while now. I spent my morning thinking of my responses for various suggestions you could possibly make for dinner. I really do need to go back to work." "Mm, you do. Ok, I'll place the order." "Oh, don't forget..." "Yeah, I know, the buttered rolls." I mumble on my way down the hall.

(Y/N) twirls her fork in her spaghetti, still chewing the last bite she took. "Is it that good?" I ask her, and she bumbles, her face glowing with happiness. "It is. I think I am in love with this pasta." She giggles. I cannot help but admire how happy she gets over the littlest thing. "That much, huh?" "I am so rude... Would you like to try some?" She offers me, sliding her plate closer to me. "I am good, but thank you." I reply, pointing at my plate. "Can we talk about what went on before my phone call?" She sighs, leaving her cutlery on each side of the plate. "I was actually trying to find a way to bring back the conversation." I admit, focusing all my attention on her. "I don't know where to start..." She mumbles, fiddling with her fingers. "What about you answer my question for starters? Do you want to fall for me?" I ask her. She doesn't move her eyes from her hands. "I think I am well past that." She states. "And now I made things awkward between us." She sighs, throwing her head back. "I think that we owe it to ourselves to be honest with each other about our feelings. And I, for once, haven't been able to stop thinking about you since I met you. I don't know exactly what this is, but it is not friendship anymore. I don't even know when it started evolving from friendship." I confess, feeling a weight getting lifted off my shoulders. "And I also think that we owe to ourselves to at least try being together." "We wouldn't even work when we were in the no strings attached phase." She chuckles, but I just shrug it off. "I want all strings attached with you. And I think we weren't working because we weren't honest with each other." "Are you going to be honest with me from now on?" She asks me and I smirk. "Only if you promise to be honest with me as well." "It sounds like something I can do..." She smirks as well. I pick up my glass of lemonade, prompting her to do the same. "To honesty." "To honesty." She agrees. "And to our first date." I add. "Oh, this is a first date?" She asks and I hum. "Doesn't it feel like a first date?" "Not really. It's just dinner." She cocks an eyebrow. "How about after dinner, I walk you up where you live, wish you a good night, and steal a first kiss from you?" I suggest and she lets out a laugh. "I am not sure I should let you know where I live on our very first date. I mean, I have practically just met you." She jokes, faking a poised expression that makes me snicker.

--

(Y/N's POV)

"(Y/N), Calum is here..." My assistant peeks through the door of my trailer, prompting me to leave my lines on the couch beside me. "What is he doing here?" I ask, furrowing my eyebrows together. "I don't know. He said he brought you lunch. Should I let him in?" She asks me and I nod, sitting up a bit to leave him some space on the couch where I am resting. Calum peeps through, checking with me before he gets inside. "I didn't think bringing you food would be so difficult." Calum comments, walking closer to me. He leans down, planting a soft kiss on my lips, before leaving the takeout bag on my lap. "You are not my usual delivery guy... They are just looking out for your girlfriend and unborn child..." I comment, trying to take a look into the paper bag. "You have a usual delivery guy?" He asks me, scooting me down the couch and sitting behind me, moving me between his thighs. I lean my head back against his shoulder, letting him place his hands on my bump. "My assistant usually brings me food. But since I got pregnant I have been craving salads from this place at the Hills... So I usually order from them." I reply, grabbing the bag to look inside. "Salads? Since when do you crave salads?" He asks me in a playful tone, pecking at my temple. "Since I saw how hot the delivery guy from that place is." I reply, just as playfully. Calum hums, biting onto my neck to make me laugh. "If that leaves a mark, it will show on camera, and my makeup artist will hate you for the extra work to cover it." "We will say you were attacked by a vampire." He jokes, rubbing his hand over my belly. "I like this dress on you... It's so soft." He mumbles, lips still attached to my neck. I just hum, closing my eyes and letting him go on. "I have been thinking about you all day. I have been thinking of last night and the way you tasted. I have been thinking of the way you were touching me... You haven't left my mind all day." He whispers, moving his lips to my ear. "Must have been a very hard day..." "Oh, you have no idea... You haunt my thoughts all day." "Even when I look like that?" I ask him. "I've never seen you look sexier." He replies, running his tongue over my sweetspot. I shiver, a moan escaping my lips as Calum's hand leaves my bump and moves south, resting at the hem of my dress. "I have to read my lines..." I mutter, but both of us know I am too weak to deny him. "Oops, pregnancy brain, you forgot..." He replies, drawing a pattern on my exposed thigh. "You are so good at finding excuses... It's such a special talent." I reply breathlessly. "I am inspired..." He whispers, bringing his free hand to fondle my breasts. "Shit... I love what pregnancy is doing to your body." He groans, pressing my breast in his palm. "You say that because you are not the one carrying all that extra weight around." I protest. His lips peck below my jaw, making me shiver. "Let me relieve you a bit then. I know some ways to make you feel better." Calum offers and I moan, ready to succumb to him. "I don't know when they'll call me. We will have to be quick." "Quick? I don't think I can do that... They'll have to wait for you, princess." He mumbles, slipping his hand under my dress. He pushes my panties aside, guiding his fingers to my core. "God, princess... You are so wet... So needy, aren't you?" He asks, gathering wetness with the tip of his finger. "Hormones..." I mutter, earning a chuckle from him. "Come on, princess... It's not fair to blame everything on your hormones... You were just as needy before pregnancy." He teases, flicking his finger over my clit. I almost lose my mind, the teasing is relentless at this point. I feel sweat beading at my temples, and suddenly my trailer feels small and stuffy. "You have to do something. Please, Calum... For the love of God, do something." I beg, feeling shivers covering every inch of my body. "Oh, princess... It makes my heartache, how desperate you get." I can hear the smirk in his voice, that sadistic little smirk he does when my neediness amuses him. It is almost intoxicating. "I really do have to do something, don't l? It would be cruel to leave the mother of my child like that... Wouldn't it, love?" He asks. I can almost feel relief when I hear his zipper rattle as he frees his cock. He hooks his thumbs on either side of my panties, lowering them to my knees before he helps me raise my hips in the air so I can line his cock to my entrance.

It is almost cathartic feeling him inside me. His cock throbs as it slides inside me inch by inch, pushing my walls to wrap around him. I can't stop the moan from slipping out of my lips, no matter how hard I press my lips together. "So good for me, princess. You wrap around me so well..." Calum hisses, placing a hand softly on my hip. I lean my head back, closing my eyes to focus on riding his cock. His free hand lowers the neckline of my dress along with the cups of my bra, letting my tits spill free. It is such a relief, the tender, swollen breasts becoming covered in goosebumps as they are freed from the tight restraints. "Calum..." I sigh, moving on him to feed the hunger inside my belly. "Just a kitten, aren't you? Listen to you purring for my cock... Even our baby in your belly doesn't stop you from being desperate..." He chuckles, caressing my breast. "Don't kill the vibe, please." I beg and he hums. "How could I? You look so sexy like that, princess. Bouncing on my cock like that, taking all of me in your tight little cunt. Bet your face looks so good right now. Bet your lip is tucked between your teeth on the side like it always is when I fuck you... Bet your eyes are watering. Am I right, princess?" He asks me and I groan, frustrated over how well he knows me. "I am not sure if I can keep going with this. I am not sure if I can take more." I mumble. I can feel heat crawl up to my ears; his teasing was relentless and the hormones don't really allow me to hold from reaching my high for long. "Oh, you shouldn't cum yet, princess. It's impolite not to wait for me to get there before you come around me." He patronizes me. I can hear the devilish smirk on his lips, which other than irritating, is incredibly hot. "I can't..." I protest but he chuckles. "Sure you can... You can do it, princess, I believe in you." He bucks his hips up, pounding his tip on my spot. I have to dig my nails in my palms, my breathing getting caught in the back of my throat as Calum decides that he is not edging me enough as is, and pulls at my nipple. I whimper, my back arching as his fingers tweak the already pointy bud. "Cal..." I protest. I can feel my clit throbbing, the bundle of nerves demanding attention. I am yearning for my release, my body trembling more by the minute I don't get it. "You have no idea how good your cunt feels around me, love..." He murmurs, pressing his lips on the spot between my shoulder blades. "Does it? Does my tight little cunt feel good around your cock, baby? Do you like the way I wrap around you like a glove? Bet you wish you could rail me like you used to... I am still dreaming of that, you know. I still dream of when you would have me on my back, with my legs spread wide apart, and you were fucking me with no mercy, almost like you hated me. Oh, baby... When I dream of that, I wake up with my hand between my legs, pressed right on that tight, pink cunt you like so much..." I moan, throwing my head back, making sure he hears how my voice is breaking. Two can play this game, and it is about time I get my revenge for all the teasing. "Shit... You minx. You've earned it, princess. You can cum, baby. Cum around my cock." He encourages me, making my pussy quiver around him. "Ah, shit... I might put another baby in your belly today, princess..." He groans, bucking his hips up to send me over the edge.

"It is technically impossible to put another baby inside me right now, you know that, right?" I ask Calum as he helps me clean up his cum from my cunt. "What, love?" He asks, wiping me carefully, before leaving a kiss right on my clit. I shiver, taking a moment to enjoy the lingering feeling of his lips. "I said that you can't get me pregnant now, that I am already pregnant. While we were fucking you told me that you might put another baby in my belly today..." I explain and he hums. "I know... But it sounded hot, didn't it?" He asks, grabbing the box of sushi so we can finally eat. "It did... Who would have known you have such a huge impregnation kink?" I sigh, grabbing a pair of chopsticks. "Did it really come as a surprise to you?" He asks, bringing an avocado roll to my mouth. He leaves a peck on my temple, before picking a roll for himself.

--

"How are you feeling today, bub?" Sierra asks me, taking a seat beside me on the porch table. "Good. I am just enjoying all the pampering. How are you feeling?" I ask, stroking my belly softly as I take in the soft, sunny day. "Good. But you are the most important person here. Can I get you anything?" She asks and I shake my head at her. "No, it's alright. Calum is tending to my every need." I gesture to the table before us, which by now is covered with snacks, water bottles, juice packs, hand-held fans, and pillows for my back. "He seems on top of it..." Sierra chuckles, relaxing back in her seat. "He has been great, actually. He takes his role very seriously." "Uh, he seems so happy. Honestly, you two are so good together. It's surprising it took you two so long to get together." "Yeah, I guess it did take a bit of time for that. But it is alright, good things take time. Hey, do you wanna feel the baby?" I ask, hoping to avoid this conversation with her today. "Oh my God, can I?" She asks excitedly and I nod. It is quite literally less invasive for her to physically touch me than go through with this conversation. Sierra leans in and places her ear and hand on my belly, stroking it softly and cooing at the baby moving.

Ever since Calum and I told our friends about our arrangement and now our relationship, everyone has become way too nosy for my liking. I was never the one to be so invested in their relationships, but they seem to be treating this with zero boundaries. I know they do it out of love, but it is too damn invasive. I turn my head and locate Calum across the backyard, shooting him a look and hoping that he gets my silent cry for help. "Oh my... He is moving a lot." Sierra cheers. "We don't know the gender yet..." I mumble. "Right, right, I forgot. Have you settled on any names?" She asks me. I smile politely and shake my head no, already feeling drained for the day. "Hey, love... You look a little tired. Si, do you think I can take her upstairs for a nap?" Calum asks, making Sierra stand up. "Of course. I didn't realize. Feel free to use whatever room." She assures us, getting up to help me stand up. "Oh, thank you. I just need a few minutes. You know, with growing the baby, I am tired all the time." "Take all the time you need." She replies as Calum helps me get upstairs.

"I was on the lookout for the look... If you hadn't given it in 2 minutes, I would have come myself." Calum whispers, opening the door to the guest room. "Why?" I ask. "They were a bit nosy... As always." "Why is everyone so nosy about our relationship? It feels like we are circus animals..." I groan, taking a seat on the bed. "I don't know, baby. I get they are excited for us, but it has been months since we told them, it has to stop." "I think once the baby is born we will be out of the spotlight." I giggle, leaning my head on his shoulder. "Nice, throwing our baby under the bus to save ourselves..." He jokes. "Even if they ask the baby questions, it won't be able to answer. It will just coo and chew its foot." I reply, and Calum sighs longingly. "I can't wait to see the baby..." He pouts, placing a hand on my stomach. "I mean, you will, in a month. And then you'll start wishing it was still inside my uterus." "If it takes from me, it's going to be a true angel." "Your mom has already filled me in on the nightmare named toddler Calum." I mumble and he gasps. "How dare you? All of you... I was perfect." "Anyway, the baby is going to be its own little person, no matter how hard we argue about your angelic status." "I can't believe we are going to be parents." He admits. "We sure have come a long way." I lay my back on the mattress, feeling a wave of relief as I don't have to actively carry the weight of the baby bump. Calum joins me, laying back as well and staring at the ceiling. "Maybe we can stay in here. We will say you are too tired to go downstairs for lunch, and I'll bring us food here." He suggests and I laugh. "We can't hide from our friends, Calum. And it is not very polite using your poor, pregnant girlfriend to dodge them like that." I reply and he hums. "You didn't mind when I used my poor pregnant girlfriend to get her out of Sierra's company." "I feel bad for leaving her like that." "You shouldn't. You have a good excuse, use it." He replies, pecking on my forehead.

--

"You can leave him down, you know... No one is going to take him away from us." I state tiredly, watching Calum as he cradles our baby carefully in his arms. "I know... I just don't want to leave him... Look at him, he is perfect. Just like you." He lifts his head just for a moment, only to take a loving look at me. "Cheesy, Hood. Do you say that to every girl you meet?" I ask and he chuckles. "Only the ones I have perfect babies with." He winks at me before he goes back to looking at our baby. "Are there more baby mamas? We should start a club." I say snarkily and Calum scoffs. "For someone who has just given birth, you sure have a lot of energy..." He mumbles. "Not for long. I'll have to feed him soon and then they'll take him for the night, so I can rest. And you should leave too, go sleep. You need rest." I suggest and he shakes his head no. "There is no way I am leaving you. What if you need something?" He asks me and I smile at how caring he is. "There are people here to take care of me, don't worry. Go sleep, take care of Duke, and make sure the house is ready for us. You can come over in the morning, we will be here, waiting for our daddy." I assure him. "Duke is already at Luke's. And the house is ready, there is nothing more to do, I checked the list thrice already." "You need a shower and a meal. And I am pretty sure they will shoo you out. The baby and I are pretty vulnerable still." "Fine. You win. I'll leave at 11. But I'll be right here bright and early." "You better. You have to bring me breakfast." "What type of breakfast does mommy want?" He asks, walking to my bed and sitting on the edge. I move the little beanie on top of our baby's head, taking a look at the fuzzy little head. "Everything bagel with chicken filet and cream cheese. And a smoothie with berries." "I'll ask the doctor if you can have that." He replies. "No, you don't understand... You will bring what I asked for." I nearly demand. "Isn't mommy such a brat?" Calum coos at the baby, before leaning in to kiss my lips softly. "She is. But daddy loves her for that." "She is very lucky he does. You know, we have to find him a name..." "I can't believe we haven't settled yet." "I can. But we have all the time in the world to find Baby (Y/L/N)-Hood a name." He passes the baby to me, before stroking my cheek softly.

--

"No wine for me." I cover my glass as Michael brings the bottle to pour me some. "What? Are you pregnant again?" He chuckles. "Breastfeeding, smartass." Calum mumbles before I could respond. "Right... Uh, can I bring you some juice?" Michael asks me. "No, just water is fine." I smile politely, fidgeting with the strap of my dress. "Are you guys thinking of having another one?" Crystal asks. Lewis has barely turned 4 months old and we are already talking about another baby? "No, not really. One is enough..." I reply for the both of us, and I am satisfied to see Calum nodding in agreement. "Lewis has the ability to keep us both busy at all times. I don't think I could do a second one..." "I agree. It takes a lot of energy to take care of Lewis, spend time with him, and work at the same time... It is nearly exhausting to even think of having another one." I add and Crystal shrugs. "I get it. It's pretty early for that." She responds. "I don't think we will change our mind on that, though. I don't know about Calum, but I don't think I could ever split the love I have for Lewis." "No, no, I agree. Lewis has all my love, undivided. I can't imagine loving someone else like that as well." Calum agrees. "So, just one?" "Just one."

"I can put him to bed..." Calum offers as we walk through the door. "I got him, don't worry." I assure him, taking the baby carrier from him. Lewis looks at me, suckling on his pacifier. "Can I at least bathe him? So you can get ready for feeding and bedtime..." Calum suggests, leaving a peck on my cheek. "That'd be lovely. Let's go upstairs." I yawn, feeling almost as sleepy as Lewis seems. "Use that chamomile wash we have. He responds better to it." I instruct, making Calum hum. "Ok, I got him. We will see you in a bit, mama." Calum cheers, heading into the bathroom.

I soothe Lewis until his eyes are shut and he is breathing softly before putting him carefully on his cradle. I cover him with his little blanket and fix his mobile to the night setting, before fixing the baby monitor and planting a kiss goodnight on his forehead. Calum is waiting at the door, smiling tiredly. "Are you ok?" I ask him in a whisper, making him hum as he reaches to fix a strand of hair behind my ear. "I am fine. Can we talk?" He asks me and I nod, taking his hand in mine. We walk into our bedroom, and until the moment we sit on the bed, he remains quiet, silent, and a little jittery. "Are you sure you are ok?" I ask him, placing my hand on top of his. "I am. But I need to talk to you, and I am pretty sure you are the only person who can understand me." He begins. "What is it, Cal?" I ask softly. "While you were feeding Lewis, Michael and Crystal asked me why we are not getting married." "Your friends are such jerks, God... Calum, please don't tell me you are seriously thinking of proposing to me..." "You don't want to?" He asks me. I can see the relief on his face. "I don't. I really don't. I never wanted marriage, and I never wanted children. Lewis is wonderful, but you and I know he was an accident. I don't think I am meant for all this." I explain. I can hear him take a deep breath, almost as if he is thanking me for that response. "You know I love you, right?" He asks me. "I know. And I love you too. But this is not working, is it? That's what you want to tell me." "You feel that too?" He asks and I nod. "There is nothing I like more than being with you, spending time with you, hanging out with you, raising a baby with you. But everyone has so many expectations. It's like they expect us to make the next move. I get it, they are excited, but holy fuck, I think the expectations are killing me." "I know. I really agree with you. Being with you is amazing, and I want to freeze it here. But everyone is waiting like a vulture for the next step." "Honestly, it was more fun when we were friends with benefits." "Even more fun when we were exclusive friends with benefits." He adds and I chuckle. "Do you ever wish we could go back to that?" I ask him with a nostalgic sigh. "Maybe we should. Maybe we should just, go back to that stage." "What? Calum, that's impossible." I laugh. "Why? We are two friends, enjoying and supporting each other, living together, and raising a baby together. Nothing more." "Everyone will think we are insane..." "Fuck everyone. It's us that matters." "So this changes nothing between us." "Except it changes everything. We make it clear that this is it, this is what fits us." He replies. I bite the inside of my cheek, before plopping with my back on the bed. "Look at us... This is what communication does..." I admire how far we have come. If anyone told me a year ago we would have reached that point, I would have scoffed and brushed it off. "We have really grown and matured... Go us." "You know, this is pretty unconventional, even for us." I comment and he shrugs. "When were we ever conventional?" He asks, leaning in to kiss me softly.

--

Part 1  /  My Masterlist  /  My Ko-Fi

#calum hood #calum 5sos #calum thomas hood #calum hood imagine #calum hood smut #calum hood fic #calum hood smut fic #calum hood smut imagine #5 seconds of summer #5 seconds of summer smut #5 seconds of summer imagine #5 seconds of summer fic #5 seconds of summer smut fic #5 seconds of summer smut imagine #5sos #5sos smut #5sos imagine #5sos smut imagine #5sos fic #5sos smut fic #imagine #fic #smut #smut fic #smut imagine #wattpad #wattpad writer #kofi writer

[talkfastromance4]

I will miss singing the 12th days of Hailey but 🥺🥺🥺❤️❤️❤️ those were incredible! Thank you so so much

It was so fun to do! I’m happy I stuck with blurb length, that never happens😅 thank you for reading, I always love your commentary/thoughts Sunny!🥰

#ask #@suchalonelysunflower

[hoodharlow]

The obstacles I went through to make this bc I don't hvae that doodle option when I post pics on here lmao

Ty to @arishemmo for tagging me 🥺🥺🥺 ily and all I have to say is TASTE (i also counted Bryson bc has that one song with my mwn Jack)

I'm tagging: @be-ready-when-i-say-go @hoodhoran @suchalonelysunflower @heavyhitterheaux @toocriticalharlow @harlowcomehome @trulymadlykiki @that-90s-girllll @awhore4moree @ghost-of-you @nattinatalia @ijustwantedplums @redrattlers @calumthoodshands @minkookie95 @webinurcloset @stickerreds @twilightmomentswithyou @lxnelyhearrt

#tag game

[harrysfolklore]

my favorite fics: holiday edition

merry christmas to everyone ! here’s a list of my favorite holiday themed blurbs by amazing writers ! i hope you like it <3

ask me anything | masterlist | my patreon

baby it’s cold outside by @havethetimeofyourstyles

new year by @svnflowervol666

no regrets by @watchmegetobsessed

i gave you my heart by @suchalonelysunflower

christmas at the styles house by @harrysgoldenline

mistletoe by @eveningepiphany

lonely this christmas by @enthusiasticharry

i’ll be home for christmas by @tokyoharry

winter flakes by @oghoneytryst

that’s my apron by @glitteredrry

christmas baby by @peterspeachy

sweater weather by @tpwkwriter

happy holidays by @finelinevogue

the perfect tree by @storiesforallfandoms

milk and cookies by @fiftyshadesof-h

merry christmas, darling by @cakestan

it’s not christmas till you come home by @tobesolonely

christmas in holmes chapel by @nationalharryleague

baking made easy by @harrysgloves

christmas dance by @astranva

traditions by @herewithmeharry

donating time by @halfmoonkid

underneath the tree by @all-things-fic

reconnect by @soysauceharry

read receipts by @harrystylesgotmefuckedup

invisible string by @satanhalsey

a new pair of skates by @hunflowers

be quiet by @harryhoney-bee

spending new year’s eve with harry by @tinydestinybear

tis the damn season by @harrystylescherry

better this year by @shroomiebloomm

christmas at mum’s by @finerllines

baby please come home by @pancakes4two 

this christmas by @leveller-75

matilda by @goldenbuckyyy

so good by @foolforharrry

a midnight kiss by @gucciwins

angel by @shroombloomm

happy new year by @avatar-anna

new years, new family by @chaoticloving

my holiday blurbs

holidays with harry

putting the christmas tree with harry

singer!yn and harry release a christmas song

tree picking with harry

christmas in paris

christmas with the styles

new years

first christmas as husband and wife

#harry styles fake instagram #harry styles fic rec #harry styles fanfiction #harry styles imagine #harry styles christmas #harrysfolklore