Summary: Leah and Y/n take turns in the suspect TikTok trend
“Suspect can’t ride a bike” Leah’s fun stops as she just shakes her head. It was only the beginning of your two taking the piss out of each other, you started light.
“Suspect lifts weights nearly everyday and has the arms of an 8 year old boy” Leah laughs at you as she jogs.
“What!?” You ask amused
“Suspect hasn’t had a real tan since she was thirteen” you said before Leah stopped running with a straight face
“Not true” she scrunched up her eyebrows
“Suspect’s only personality is being Australian” Leah said running with you with your phone
“Hey!”
“Suspect can’t form a proper sentence without aggressively cussing” you laugh at her as she laughs too and takes the phone from you
“Suspect used her fiancé’s endo condition for clout online” Leah can’t stop laughing
“I was spreading awareness!”
“Suspect thinks she can sing!”. Leah this time was genuinely offended
“I can” she mumbled
“Suspect tells me she doesn’t wake up in the night for food but leaves all the cupboards open” Leah laughs as she runs with you
“Suspect caught stealing clothes again” you said before you aggressively pulled her shirt, which was yours.
“It’s mine!”
“No it’s actually not Leah”
“Suspect would rather read her kindle than have sex with her fiancé”
“Shut up” you grinned
“Suspect’s hairline is receding” “no it’s not!” She said whilst quickly taking her hair out of the high ponytail.
“Yeah okay then baby” you said before handing her the phone
“Suspect can’t laugh without peeing herself like a toddler”
“Suspect claims to have gotten all the girls in high school but I’m her second girlfriend and number three on her body c-“
summary: you and Leah partake in an outdated but funny trend
a/n: I’VE RISEN BITCHES
You’re not sure how your Christmas rom-com marathon was forgotten and you were now covered in a so called ‘mini dress’ made of Christmas wrapping paper.
“That’s too much!” You squealed as Leah kept doing circles around your waist with the roll of paper.
Whose idea was this? Yours. Who was enjoying it the most? Your girlfriend.
“Enough!” You laughed, pushing Leah away to stop her from doing too much.
“This looks great hang on” Leah said holding the paper in place with one hand and ripping the tape with her mouth.
Hot. Died.
“Brilliant” she smiled proudly, stepping back to admire you. “Chefs kiss!” She clapped her hands proud of herself.
You were in nothing but wrapping paper “now I know what I want for Christmas” she smirked as you smacked her playfully
“Okay where is your phone?” She asked looking around for it, as your movements were currently restricted. You would both film the TikTok together.
“On the coffee table”
Leah unlocked your phone before getting up the audio
oh I wanna let him unwrap me like oooh
get on top of him by the fireplace
Halfway through you posing for the camera, Leah jokingly starts to pretend to rip the paper off, causing you to squeal and cover yourself up before the video ends.
“Naughty!” you point at her
“That’s why I’m on the list” Leah smirks and shrugs before swiftly picking you up bridal style and placing you on the floor near the tree. She quickly reached for the popcorn bowl on the coffee table and places some in her mouth
“Okay, pretend, you’re one of the presents under the tree from Santa and I’m a child waking up on Christmas morning. okay? so just stay there” Leah explained, mouth full of food
“Lee-“ you laughed before she walked around the corner
Before she reappears, fake yawning “oh merry Christmas my family” she says facing the kitchen, before turning to you making you grin excitedly “oh look what Santa brought me!” she giggled with you
She was stupid sometimes
“Better open this one before my parents wake up” she winks
“Keep it PG mam, you’re a child in this role play of yours”
“hm I’ll decide” she says standing over you with her hands on her hips “what did the song say again about getting on top by the fire place?” she smiled
Shot warnings: cardiopulmonary resuscitation, use of AED, vomiting, mention and mild description of a panic attack, mention of broken bones, mention of physical child abuse and past trauma, cursing, Beth and Jen being little shits
Author’s note(s): yes, a self insert, I told you all I needed this💀. I don’t remember where the fuck are the toilets in STN airport but let’s pretend they’re directly in front of Pret. Why are these very well-payed women flying Ryanair? Because I said so. Can you guess who do I work for? Btw whatever is written in italics is in another language. Also if any of you works as cabin crew, let’s pretend Crew Control are nice, okay? I wanna be delulu for a bit.
Word count: 10.392
Summary: A coffee thrown on a flight attendant leads Leah to spend an entire flight blushing and being teased by her friends with a surprisingly good ending. Set in summer 2024.
Pret was the closest thing to quietness that Leah could find at the always bustling Stansted Airport. There were a couple families, some teenagers on a school trip and the occasional business traveler typing away on a laptop. Leah Williamson, however, stood out in the crowd, tall and striking, but entirely distracted. Her morning just hadn’t gone as planned. She was supposed to wake up early to finish packing for her trip with the girls, have breakfast and be able to take the train to Stansted with plenty of time.
Well she overslept her alarm, so she had to rush through everything and now was waiting to pay for an airport-priced-sandwich and a smoothie. Beth, Viv and Jen were already at the gate but texted her saying that boarding hadn’t even started.
“Next, please”.
She was checking her phone when she stepped forward, too stressed about possibly missing her flight even if Beth had already told her to relax and get breakfast. But the app wasn’t working now and her boarding pass wasn’t loading.
That was when disaster struck.
In her peripheral vision, Leah vaguely noticed someone in front of her—a small woman dressed navy-blue pants and a perfectly ironed white shirt, complete with a signature yellow scarf tucked smartly around her neck. The woman turned around at the same moment Leah took a step forward and shook her phone in frustration.
CRASH.
The iced coffee slipped out of the woman’s grasp, tumbling in slow motion before colliding with her uniform. The cup’s contents—an unholy amount of caramel-drizzled iced coffee—splattered all over the pristine uniform, leaving sticky stains streaked across the yellow and navy fabric.
“Oh my God!” Leah exclaimed, immediately realizing what she’d done. “I am so sorry, I wasn’t looking where I was going!” Her hands flailed awkwardly as she searched for napkins, her panicked expression only amplifying the mess of the situation. The people around stopped in their tracks to stare at the tall panicking girl and the flight attendant.
The flight attendant —Gaia, according to the nametag on the blazer that was folded on top of her suitcase— stood frozen for a second, staring down at her now ruined uniform. Her jaw tightened as she slowly looked up at Leah with a piercing glare that made the footballer feel about three inches tall.
“I— I can buy you another one!” Leah stammered. “Or, or pay for dry cleaning? Anything! I’m so sorry—”
Gaia cut her off with a sharp wave of her hand, her lips pressed into a thin line. Without a word, Gaia stormed off, coffee still dripping from her blouse.
The waitress, wide-eyed from the scene, observed the blonde in front of her. Leah, still in full panic mode, stood frozen for a second before glancing helplessly at the waitress. “I’ll… I’ll clean it up,” she muttered, grabbing napkins and dropping to her knees to wipe up the puddle.
In the cramped bathroom, Gaia shoved open the door, muttering furiously under her breath. Her coworker, Francesca, was already inside, fixing her hair in the mirror. Francesca raised an eyebrow at the state of her friend.
“What the hell happened to you?” Francesca asked in Italian, her voice a mix of curiosity and amusement.
“That stupid tall blonde girl spilled my coffee on me!” Gaia hissed, gesturing angrily to her ruined blouse. She yanked open her suitcase to grab her backup uniform, still ranting. “I mean, who just… walks around like that, not paying attention to anything and waving their arms around like they are the only person at the fucking airport?”
Francesca chuckled, leaning against the counter as she watched Gaia aggressively change. “Sounds like your lucky day,” she teased. “Maybe she was distracted because she found you cute.”
Gaia rolled her eyes dramatically. “Francesca, please”. She stuffed her shirt and pants in a plastic bag and into her suitcase and started dressing, still muttering in Italian. “Thank god I have the skirt with me as well. Can you imagine if I had to work today in coffee stained pants? They get sticky and smelly. I definitely wouldn’t be able to handle that for twelve hours”.
Before Francesca could respond, the sound of a toilet flushing interrupted their conversation. One of the stalls opened, and out stepped tall blonde girl, casually making her way to the sink to wash her hands. They barely looked at her, Francesca too busy putting lipstick on and Gaia fitting her shirt under her tights so it doesn’t move.
“Stupid tall blonde girl, huh?” Alessia said in perfect Italian, her tone amused as she dried her hands. She turned toward Gaia and Francesca, who stopped in their tracks and stared at her unamused, her blue eyes twinkling. “That would be my friend, Leah.”
“You can tell your friend Leah that she should be more careful”.
“Well,” Alessia continued, her cheeks a bit red since the girls clearly didn’t care about her listening into their conversation or that the girl they were criticizing was her friend, leaning as casually as possible against the counter, “I’m sure she didn’t mean to spill coffee on you. Leah’s a bit clumsy when she’s distracted and her morning was a bit hectic. I’ll make sure she apologizes properly.”
Francesca snorts while Gaia raises an unimpressed eyebrow. “Sure, whatever”.
Back at the table, Leah was practically vibrating with nerves when Alessia returned. “Less I fucked up, I threw a coffee on a flight attendant, her coffee. And she looked scary. Did you see her in the toilet? Is she planning to kill me?”
Alessia grinned, her amusement barely contained. “Well, she did call you a stupid tall blonde girl in Italian. Her colleague was there so I heard the whole story while she got changed. She does look intimidating, even in just a shirt and tights”.
Leah groaned, burying her face in her hands. “I’m never coming back here again.”
“To the airport? I mean I guess we could just not fly Ryanair. But relax”, Alessia said, patting Leah’s shoulder. “She’s mostly just pissed because her uniform got ruined. Buy her another coffee and something to eat, and she might forgive you. From what I heard it sounds like she’s got a long day today”.
Leah nodded, springing into action. She bought an extra-large iced coffee to replace the one she spilled, along with a pastry. For good measure, she also bought another coffee and snack for Gaia’s coworker. Balancing the coffees carefully on one hand and the paper bag with pastries on the other, Leah made her way to the entrance, where Gaia and Francesca had just returned from the restroom. Leah winced seeing Gaia in a skirt now and a slightly wrinkled shirt.
“Hi,” Leah said, her voice soft and a little awkward. Gaia looked at her, her expression still icy. “I—uh—got these for you. To make up for the coffee… incident.” She showed the coffees and the bag, which Francesca took without second thought, stepping back nervously.
Gaia eyed the offerings, then looked up at Leah, her gaze softening slightly. “Fine,” she said coolly, though there was a hint of a smirk tugging at the corner of her lips. “You’re forgiven… for now.”
Leah let out a relieved laugh, scratching the back of her neck. “Thanks. I really am sorry. I swear, I didn’t mean to”.
As Leah returned to her seat with Alessia, Francesca leaned over to Gaia, whispering in Italian, “You enjoyed that, didn’t you?”
Gaia rolled her eyes, but the small smile on her face said it all. “Well she is pretty”.
The boarding gate was buzzing with excitement as Leah and Alessia joined their friends Beth, Viv, and Jen. Leah was still flustered after the coffee debacle, and Alessia, ever the instigator, couldn’t resist recounting the entire story to the newly arrived group.
“…and then,” Alessia said between laughs, “Leah panicked, bought another coffee and a pastry for the poor girl, and apologized like five different times. Honestly, you should’ve seen her face—pure guilt.”
Beth burst out laughing, practically doubling over. “Leah Williamson, national hero and captain of England, brought down by a flight attendant. I love it.”
“Yeah, I mean, you should probably avoid any sudden movements on the plane,” Jen teased, a mischievous glint in her eye. “Who knows what kind of revenge she might be plotting.”
“Shut up,” Leah muttered, her face a deep shade of crimson. “I’ve already humiliated myself enough for one day. Also there is no way she just happens to be on our flight”.
“Less did say she had a Ryanair uniform”.
“Beth, ninety percent of the flights from Stansted are Ryanair flights, just look at the screens”.
Leah tried her best to stay calm, but her stomach dropped the moment she saw Gaia and Francesca appear in view. The flight crew—two pilots and four flight attendants—walked briskly toward the gate, their uniforms crisp and their demeanor professional. Gaia, with her serious appearance and sharp posture, led the way.
Alessia immediately nudged Beth, who was already snickering. “There she is,” Alessia whispered conspiratorially, nodding toward Gaia. Leah groaned audibly, but there was no escaping the teasing now, she spoke too soon. Of course the flight attendant that she ruined the uniform of had to be on her flight.
“That’s her?” Jen asked, leaning in with interest. “She looks so composed. Are you sure she wasn’t plotting your demise in that bathroom? Maybe she will do the same to you and claim it was turbulence”.
“Jen!” Leah hissed, mortified. “Can we please move on?”
“Oh no, no, no,” Beth said, smirking. “We’re milking this for all it’s worth.”
By the time they were boarding the plane, Leah had resigned herself to her fate. Alessia, Jen and her were in the first row, with Alessia in 1A, Leah in 1B and Jen in 1C, while Beth and Viv had the seats directly behind them.
Leah thought maybe she could pretend to be interested in whatever was outside and look out of the window if she asked Alessia to swap seats or focus on her phone and text her mother.
Fuck.
Standing at the front of the cabin, Gaia greeted each passenger with a polite smile as they entered the plane. Her professionalism never faltered, not even when her eyes landed on Leah and her group. Leah froze, her cheeks heating up, but Gaia’s smile remained perfectly neutral.
“Welcome aboard,” Gaia said, her tone steady, as Leah awkwardly shuffled past her into her seat.
Once everyone was seated and the doors were closed, the captain’s voice came over the intercom: “Cabin crew, arm slides and crosscheck.” The command was brisk and efficient, and the flight attendants moved with practiced precision. She confirmed with the crew at the back over the interphone and then turned around, facing the passengers.
“Once again dear passengers you are all very welcome on board this Ryanair flight to Tenerife,” Gaia’s voice came over the intercom, calm and composed. “Today in the flight deck you have captain Stefan assisted by senior first officer Lukasz, I will be your Cabin Supervisor and along with my lovely colleagues, Francesca at the back, Alina in the middle and Amanda with me at the front will be taking very good care of you. Our flight time today will be approximately four hours. Please pay attention to the safety demonstration while we point out some of the safety features on this Boeing 737-8200 series aircraft as it is a legal requirement”.
Leah slouched lower in her seat, mortification setting in all over again. “She’s the Cabin Supervisor?” Leah whispered to Alessia, her voice a mix of disbelief and dread. “Why didn’t you tell me?”
“How would I know? They didn’t mention anything when she was complaining about you in the toilet”. Alessia replied, barely able to contain her laughter. “But this is just too good.”
“She probably hates me,” Leah muttered, running a hand over her face.
“She probably does,” Jen teased, leaning over with a grin. “I mean, you did ruin her uniform. Are you sure you didn’t accidentally spill that coffee on purpose? You know, to get her attention?”
“Shh,” Leah hissed, glancing toward the front of the plane. But Gaia was focused, making sure the safety demonstration was carried out as it should. Leah admired her professionalism—though it only made her feel guiltier about the earlier incident.
As the plane took off, the teasing subsided, Beth almost falling asleep while cuddling her girlfriend. But Leah couldn’t stop herself from sneaking glances at Gaia, who was seating right in front of her, nodding from time to time to what the younger girl seating next to her was talking animatedly about. Despite her embarrassment, she couldn’t help but notice how effortlessly confident and poised Gaia seemed, how she managed the cabin with precision and grace when securing everything for takeoff.
About fifteen minutes of peace passed by until Francesca came from the rear galley, pushing a trolley with sandwiches, croissants and lasagnas. She stopped at the front galley where Gaia was making herself another coffee and began whispering animatedly, recounting the previous events to Amanda. Francesca’s mischievous grin was impossible to miss, and though her voice was low, Leah could catch bits and pieces of what she was saying. “She was drenched in coffee, fuming, cursing… the tall blonde one… mortified… I bet she’s regretting everything…”
Alessia caught the gist as well, and her face turned bright red with laughter. She leaned toward Leah, whispering, “They’re definitely talking about you. I think Francesca finds this hilarious.”
Leah sank further into her seat, her hands covering her face while an embarrassed blush creeped up from her neck. “Why is this happening to me?”
Jen glanced at them with a smirk. “I mean, you did literally drench their Cabin Supervisor in coffee. Did you expect them to just forget about it?”
Beth and Viv leaned forward to join the conversation. “What’s going on up there?” Beth asked, grinning.
“Oh, nothing,” Alessia said, trying to sound casual but failing miserably. “Just Leah being the topic of conversation for the flight attendants.”
Leah groaned, her head falling back against the seat. “This is my nightmare.”
Francesca and Amanda passed through the cabin aisle with the fresh food service and when Amanda came back, Gaia had already set up the drinks and snacks trolley. After the drinks and snacks service concluded, with Gaia having walked the cabin aisle about seven hundred times, Jen said, Gaia and Amanda moved to the front galley to stow the trolley in place and the restock some items. However, Gaia’s focus was briefly interrupted when Amanda approached her with a pained expression.
“Gaia, my shoes are brand new, and they’re absolutely killing me, do you mind if I go to the back already? I’ll do a quick rubbish on my way”. Amanda said softly, wincing as she leaned against the counter.
Gaia’s expression softened immediately. “Don’t you worry, love. Go take a seat at the back for a bit, and I’ll come down in a minute to check on you. Do you have plasters?”
“No, I finished them yesterday, I did four sectors”.
“I’ll bring you some in a minute”.
Amanda gave her a grateful smile and slipped away toward the rear of the aircraft, a small, white, plastic bag on her hands. Gaia’s shift in demeanor didn’t go unnoticed by Leah, who had been stealing glances toward the galley again since they came back. It was striking how Gaia could switch so effortlessly between firm authority and genuine kindness.
Gaia started writing notes and numbers and checking on her work phone when she was interrupted by a very tall, angry male passenger that stormed to the front of the cabin. Leah’s attention was immediately drawn to the man, whose deep voice carried across the rows.
“Excuse me!” he barked, glaring at Gaia. “Why on earth is there no ice onboard? This is unacceptable!”
Gaia turned to face him with calm professionalism. “I’m sorry, sir, but we don’t have any more ice on this flight. If there’s anything else I can assist you with—”
“I don’t care about your excuses,” the man interrupted, his voice growing louder. By this point at least five rows of passengers were looking at them, some whispering. “This is ridiculous! But why would I be surprised? You’re cheap and disgusting, and your colleagues at the back are dismissive and rude!”.
Leah and Jen immediately stiffened in their seats. Leah’s hand gripped the armrest, ready to stand if things escalated further. Jen leaned slightly forward, clearly considering the same.
Before either of them could move, Gaia’s entire demeanor changed. She stood straighter, her presence somehow larger, and fixed the man with a piercing stare. Her voice, though still calm, carried an edge of authority that sent a chill through the front rows.
“Sir,” she said, her tone sharp but controlled, “you will lower your voice immediately. We do not carry ice on this flight because the previous crew had to use all of it, and no amount of shouting will change that. You are disturbing the other passengers and interfering with the crew’s duties. If you continue, I will have no choice but to involve the captain and, if necessary, have the police waiting for you upon arrival. I will not tolerate this kind of behavior, did I make myself clear?”
The man blinked, clearly taken aback. He opened his mouth as if to argue, but Gaia raised her head ever so slightly, her lips pursing and her eyes widening just enough to send a clear message: Don’t even think about it.
Without another word, the man turned on his heel and stomped back to his seat, muttering under his breath. The tension in the cabin eased instantly, and Leah let out a breath she hadn’t realized she’d been holding.
The girls in the front rows were stunned. Alessia whispered, “She’s terrifying in the best way,” and Jen nodded in agreement.
“Just reminded me of Katie when she gets angry at the ref but without the swearing”. Says Beth with a chuckle.
Leah, however, couldn’t take her eyes off Gaia as the Cabin Supervisor returned to her tasks, her composure unshaken. She couldn’t decide if she was more mortified, impressed, or… something else entirely. For the first time all flight, she wished she had another excuse to talk to Gaia—but she doubted she’d be brave enough to try.
As the aircraft began its descent toward Tenerife after three hours and a half, the atmosphere onboard was calm. Leah had finally started to relax a little, distracted by the gorgeous view of the ocean below as the plane lowered altitude. Alessia was reading a book, Viv was organizing the tour they would take the next day and Beth was chatting quietly with Jen. At the front, Gaia was busy closing the bar for the turnaround, efficiently securing all the items for landing. She moved with practiced ease, her focus unshakable even after a long flight.
But then, out of nowhere, the tall, angry passenger from earlier stood up from his seat three rows behind Leah and Alessia. He looked pale, and his movements were unsteady.
“Ma’am, I don’t feel so good,” he mumbled, swaying slightly.
Before Gaia could react, the man collapsed, his body crumpling to the floor with a heavy thud. The cabin erupted into gasps, and a murmur of concern rippled through the passengers. Leah’s stomach dropped as she froze in her seat at the sight.
Gaia was there in an instant. She pressed the call bell above Leah’s seat three times in rapid succession, a signal to alert the other three crew members that weren’t present. Without hesitation, she dropped to her knees beside the man. Leah could see Gaia’s professionalism kick in as she checked for signs of breathing. Her expression, while calm, was intense, and Leah could feel the tension radiating off her.
“Sir? Can you hear me?” Gaia said firmly, pinching his earlobe. “Fuck, not now”. She mumbled while lowering her body until her ear was next to his face and counting to ten quietly. “Oh god”. she muttered to herself before tilting his head back, opening his airway, and immediately starting chest compressions.
That was other three crew members arrived. “Jesus Christ”. Was all Francesca said before running back to the rear galley.
“Male, around fifty, travels by himself. Came to the front saying he didn’t feel good and collapsed on the floor. Not breathing.” Said Gaia, without stopping.
Alina picked up the interphone, her hands shaking but her voice firm: “Attention, please, attention everyone, we are having a medical emergency. If there is a medically qualified person onboard, please come to the front. I repeat we have an emergency, we need a doctor”. Immediately after, she called the captain. “Guys, this is an emergency briefing, are you ready to receive it?”
Amanda approached Jen, Leah and Alessia. “Could you please move back a couple of rows? Just to give us a bit more space to work,” She asked, gently but firmly.
The girls complied without hesitation, grabbing their belongings, Alessia and Jen sliding into empty seats two rows back, Leah sat on the empty seat next to Beth. Leah couldn’t stop glancing over the seatback, her heart pounding as she watched Gaia work. Alessia, equally tense, clutched Jen’s arm tightly, Beth hid her face in Viv’s neck while her girlfriend rubbed her back with her eyes closed. Meanwhile, no passenger stood up for the medical emergency, after talking to the captain, Alina repeated the announcement in english and broken Spanish, but still, nobody stood up. They were alone in this.
Francesca came back running, and started setting up the AED right next to Gaia and preparing the man. She had to cut through his clothes, shave and dry his sweaty chest. The coordination between her and Gaia was impressive, keeping in mind Gaia’s sole focus seemed to be on giving chest compressions. “Ready, clear!”. Francesca placed the pads on the man’s chest and took Gaia’s hands from the man, her breathing was ragged. “Do you want to switch?” Gaia shook her head no, she was biting her tongue to maintain her focus. The device analyzed the rhythm and recommended a shock. Everyone stepped back even further as Francesca pressed the button, delivering the first shock. The man’s body jolted slightly. Gaia immediately resumed CPR, with Francesca and Alina counting the compressions for her.
“Thirty”. Francesca gave her the mask to give the rescue breaths. Alina was close to tears, biting the inside of her cheeks. Amanda stood in the middle of the aisle to try and give more privacy to the man, her body trembling, she was already crying.
“Come on, come on,” Leah whispered, her fingers digging into the armrest.
The cabin was in absolute silence, at least the first ten rows could hear everything. People were stretching their necks to catch a glimpse of what was happening, all eyes were on Gaia and her team.
The AED analyzed again and recommended a second shock. Francesca administered it, and this time, the man’s chest rose shakily as he gasped for air. Gaia quickly rolled him into the recovery position. “We’ve got him,” she said, her voice steady despite the situation. She glanced at Francesca. “Stay here and monitor his breathing. Amanda, Alina, check the cabin is secure for landing and stay at the back, I think it’s almost time.”
Even after the chaos, Gaia remained composed. She stood, brushing off her uniform, breathing deeply before calling the captain again: “Guys, it’s Gaia, he’s stable. Do I have time to check the cabin for landing?”
After hanging, she took her seat and signaled Francesca to do the same. Leah couldn’t take her eyes off her. The confidence, the competence, the control, the fact that after all of that she wanted to make sure everyone else was secure—it was impossible not to be impressed.
“Cabin crew, sit for landing”.
The landing was smooth, with the man stabilized and conscious, though still weak, as the ambulance crew waited on the ramp. As soon as Gaia opened the aircraft door and extended the stairs, she helped the paramedics board, efficiently briefing them on what had happened. Francesca led one of them to where the man had been sitting to get his belongings.
The passenger was taken from the aircraft, and the cabin fell into an almost eerie silence as everyone processed what had just happened. Despite the stress of the situation, Gaia returned to the front of the aircraft to begin the disembarkation process, her voice clear and calm over the intercom as she gave the final instructions.
“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Tenerife. You may now disembark the aircraft using both the front and the rear steps. For passengers traveling with children, please hold their hand as you walk down the stairs and until you are in the terminal building. On behalf of the captain, first officer and specially your onboard crew, we thank you for flying with Ryanair today and hope to see you again soon”.
Leah, Alessia, and the others waited until the very end to disembark, hanging back as the other passengers filtered off the plane. Leah was still shaken, though not from fear. She couldn’t stop thinking about Gaia—how she had taken charge, saved the man’s life, and then carried on as though it were just another day at work.
As they reached the front of the plane, Francesca the captain and Gaia stood near the door, his hand on her shoulder. Her polite yet tense smile firmly in place as she thanked each passenger for flying with them. When Leah approached, Gaia’s gaze flickered to her for the briefest moment.
“Have a nice holiday,” Gaia said evenly, her tone professional and distant.
Leah opened her mouth to say something—anything—but no words came out. She hesitated, her cheeks flushing, before giving Gaia a small nod and stepping off the plane. Alessia, walking just behind her, raised an eyebrow as they stepped onto the ramp.
“You didn’t say anything?” Alessia asked incredulously, nudging Leah in the side. “After all that?”
“I couldn’t,” Leah muttered, rubbing the back of her neck. “What was I supposed to say? ‘Hey, great job saving that guy’s life. Also, sorry about the coffee?’”
Alessia snorted. “Maybe start with ‘thank you.’”
Leah sighed, already regretting her silence. But as they walked toward the terminal, one thought kept running through her mind: That can’t the last time I see her.
The group of footballers didn’t hear it, but the moment Francesca placed the yellow strap across the open door and turned around to talk to Gaia, she was already taking out the trash trolley, opening it and emptying the contents of her stomach in it. Her body shaking as she vomited and coughed, the tips of her fingers turning white with how strongly she was holding onto the trolley. Stefan held her ponytail while rubbing her back. Francesca couldn’t hold it any longer either, and sat down to cry on the jumpseat.
“I’m gonna call Dublin” Lukasz told the captain, stepping out of the aircraft.
At the back, Alina was crying as well, on the phone with her fiancé, while Amanda had hidden inside the toilet during the disembarking process, she had had a panic attack.
Amanda was the youngest in age and in the company, barely four months flying, this was her first medical emergency, while Alina had already been cabin crew for about two years. She had tried to calm Amanda during landing, as she was hyperventilating, holding her hand and telling her about how she met Dimitrij three years before, at twenty-three, and had been engaged for over a year, how she never cared about the decade between both of them and how they had been looking for houses closer to London with big gardens for their dogs. Amanda had just turned nineteen the week before, she had been planning her holidays in Ibiza with her friends from her hometown that morning and texting that guy from Tinder. Sitting in that tiny toilet, all she could think about was that man laying lifeless on the floor and her supervisor performing CPR on him like a robot. She got into the toilet the moment the aircraft left the active runway.
Having been deemed “clearly not fit to fly” by Crew Control, the six of them got their suitcases and left the airport on a taxi to a fancy hotel close to the beach. Their flight back scheduled for late in the evening the next day.
Twenty minutes later they were checking into the hotel. Amanda was still shaking, Alina was taking care of both of their their trolleys, while Francesca kept her arm around the younger girl and Gaia handled everyone’s passports for the check-ins.
The hotel bar was warm and lively, buzzing with the low hum of conversation and clinking glasses. Leah sat at a table with Alessia, Jen, Beth, and Viv, trying her best not to fidget. Alessia had spotted the flight crew as soon as they got out of the van, and Leah’s heart had almost stopped when she realized they were staying in the same hotel.
“This has to be a sign,” Jen had teased, her mischievous grin making Leah groan.
Another thirty minutes passed when the crew came back from their rooms, no longer in uniform, and sat at a nearby table where they ordered drinks and some tapas to share.
Now, sitting across from the crew’s table, Leah couldn’t help but steal glances at Gaia. The cabin supervisor was talking with her colleagues, laughing softly from time to time, her head tilted slightly as she sipped from a glass of red wine. She looked stunning—unfairly so. Her short black dress hugged her figure perfectly, her legs elongated by the same pair of high heels she wore on the flight. Her dark hair, which had been neatly pinned up since that morning, now cascaded down her back in soft waves until her hips.
“Fuck, she looks stunning,” Leah muttered, more to herself than anyone else. But Alessia, ever the meddler, heard her loud and clear and elbowed her in the side.
“Then do something about it,” Alessia hissed, smirking.
Before Leah could protest, the captain at the crew’s table stood up and announced, “Alright, I’ll pay for this and then I’m off to bed. Enjoy yourselves.” He waved off their thanks with a smile and headed toward the elevators after stopping at the bar, leaving the cabin crew and first officer to their own devices.
Not long after, Gaia stood up and made her way to the bar, her empty glass in hand. Leah froze, her eyes following her every step.
“This is your chance,” Jen whispered, nudging Leah. “Go.”
Leah hesitated, her palms suddenly clammy. “What do I even say?”
“Literally anything,” Beth said with a chuckle. “Just don’t spill another drink on her.”
Alessia snorted, and Leah shot her a glare before finally summoning the courage to stand. She made her way to the bar, her heart pounding so loudly she was sure everyone could hear it.
Gaia was leaning against the counter, waiting for the bartender to return with her drink. She noticed Leah approaching in the mirror behind the bar and raised an eyebrow, her lips curving into a sly smile.
“Well, well,” Gaia said as Leah reached her side. “If it isn’t my favorite clumsy blonde.”
Leah winced, rubbing the back of her neck. “Yeah, uh… about that. I’m really sorry. Again.”
Gaia chuckled, turning to face her fully. “Don’t worry, I’ve dealt with worse. But I’ll admit, I wasn’t expecting to see you here. Following me, are you?”
Leah’s cheeks turned pink. “What? No! I mean—definitely not. We’re just, uh, here on holiday.”
“Mm-hmm,” Gaia said, her tone teasing. “Convenient.”
Leah scratched her head, unsure how to respond. She was never this flustered, not even during the most nerve-wracking matches. But there was something about Gaia that completely threw her off balance.
Gaia tilted her head, studying Leah for a moment. “So, are you always this shy, or is it just around me?”
Leah blinked. “I’m not shy.”
Gaia smirked. “Could’ve fooled me.”
The bartender returned with Gaia’s drink—a fresh glass of wine—and Gaia turned to pay. Leah, desperate to regain some semblance of composure, cleared her throat.
“Can I… can I buy you a drink? To, you know, make up for the coffee incident?”
Gaia glanced at her over her shoulder, her smirk softening into something more genuine. “That’s sweet of you, but I think you’ve already done enough.”
Leah frowned. “Oh. Right. Sorry, I didn’t mean to—”
“I’m kidding,” Gaia interrupted, laughing lightly. “Sure, you can buy me a drink. But only if you join me.”
Leah’s heart leapt into her throat. “Yeah. Yeah, okay.”
Gaia picked up her wine and nodded toward a quieter corner of the bar. “Come on, then. Let’s see if you’re as interesting off the pitch as you are on it.”
Leah payed and blinked surprised as she turned towards Gaia. “Wait, you know who I am?”
Gaia arched an eyebrow as she led the way to a small table. “Of course I do. I’m Italian—we love football. But I’ll admit, I didn’t recognize you at first. You looked so… panicked on the plane.”
Leah groaned, burying her face in her hands as they sat down. “Great. That’s the impression I made.”
Gaia laughed again, the sound light and melodic. “Relax. You’re doing better now.”
Leah looked up, meeting Gaia’s gaze. For the first time all evening, she felt herself start to relax. Maybe Jen was right—maybe this was a sign.
“How old are you?” Leah asks.
“Twenty-six”
“I’m twenty-seven”
“So,” Gaia says, swirling her drink in the glass. “You’re a footballer.”
Leah chuckles, nodding. “Yeah. You’re a flight attendant.”
Gaia raises an eyebrow. “Wow. Look at us, uncovering life’s biggest mysteries.”
Leah laughs, shaking her head. “Alright. But how long have you been doing it?”
“Flying? About six years now,” Gaia says, leaning on the bar. “It was supposed to be temporary after I dropped out of uni, but…” She shrugs. “I fell in love with it. The travel, the people, the chaos.”
Leah tilts her head. “Even the difficult passengers?”
Gaia smirks. “Especially the difficult passengers. There’s something very satisfying about shutting down a grown man throwing a tantrum over ice.”
Leah grins, remembering how effortlessly Gaia had handled the situation earlier on the plane. “Yeah, that was—honestly? A little terrifying.”
Gaia laughs, eyes gleaming. “Good. It’s a survival skill.”
Leah watches her for a moment, fascinated. “And what about you?” she asks. “What’s your survival story?”
Gaia’s expression falters just slightly before she covers it with a smirk. “That’s a deep question for someone you just met.”
Leah shrugs, offering a small smile. “I like deep questions.”
Gaia considers her for a second, then exhales, tapping her nails against the glass. “Let’s make it fair then,” she decides. “Have you ever heard of the 36 questions to fall in love?”
Leah raises an eyebrow. “I think so. It’s supposed to be, what—scientific? Like, guaranteed to make people fall for each other?”
Gaia scoffs. “I don’t believe in that part. But I always thought it would be fun to try with a stranger.”
Leah’s heart does a little unexpected flip. She smirks to cover it. “So you’re saying I’m your stranger for the night?”
Gaia holds her gaze, lips curving into something dangerously close to a challenge. “Do you want to be?”
Leah swallows. She doesn’t hesitate. “Yeah,” she says, her voice lower than she expected. “I do.”
Gaia nods, pleased, finishes her wine and stands up. “Alright then, footballer,” she says. “Let’s see if this works.” Gaia chuckled, setting her glass down and offering her hand to the blonde. “It’s still early enough for dinner—by southern European standards, at least. What do you say we go up to my room, order some room service, and keep talking? I don’t want to unveil my deepest darkest secrets in public”.
Leah felt her heart skip a beat. “Yeah,” she blurted out grabbing her hand, a little too quickly. She immediately winced at her own eagerness, mentally slapping herself. Smooth, Williamson. Real smooth.
But Gaia didn’t seem to mind. She just smiled and turned, motioning for Leah to follow. They walked to the elevators together, the air between them charged with an unspoken energy that Leah couldn’t quite put into words.
Gaia’s room was significantly larger than Leah’s. The king-size bed dominated the space, flanked by modern furniture and a small seating area. There was even a balcony with a view of the ocean, the faint sound of waves crashing against the shore audible in the quiet room.
Leah couldn’t help but notice how immaculate everything was, from the neatly folded throw blanket on the couch to the pristine arrangement of toiletries on the bathroom counter. It was clear that the airline took good care of their crew.
“Wow,” Leah said, taking it all in. “This is… a lot nicer than my room.”
Gaia smirked, tossing her bag onto a chair and leaving her shoes in a corner, Leah did her same with hers. “Perks of being a Cabin Supervisor. The company knows how to keep us happy.”
Leah sat on the edge of the bed, feeling a little out of place in such a luxurious space. Gaia, however, moved around with ease, pulling up the room service menu and sitting next to Leah on the bed.
“What do you feel like eating?” Gaia asked, handing her the menu.
Leah scanned the options, her stomach growling softly. “Burgers?” she suggested. “And maybe soft drinks? I, uh… don’t want to risk saying anything stupid if we drink more.”
Gaia laughed, a genuine, melodic sound that made Leah’s chest feel warm. “Good call. Burgers it is.”
They placed their order, and as they waited for the food to arrive, they continued talking, their conversation flowing as easily as it had downstairs. Leah felt like she was being pulled closer and closer to Gaia, like there was some invisible force drawing them together. They sat shoulder to shoulder on the bed, their legs brushing occasionally, and every touch sent a jolt of electricity through Leah.
After a while, Gaia leaned back on her elbows and tilted her head, studying Leah with a mischievous glint in her eyes. “Alright,” she began, “let’s start the game”.
“Sure”.
Gaia’s smile widened, and she grabbed her phone, pulling up the list of questions. “Okay, question one: If you could have dinner with anyone in the world, living or dead, who would it be?”
Leah thought for a moment, tapping her fingers on the bedspread. “Probably my granddad. He passed away when I was young, and I’d love to have a proper conversation with him.”
Gaia’s expression softened. “That’s sweet. I’d pick my great-grandmother. She was apparently a real firecracker”.
They went back and forth, answering each question with increasing honesty and vulnerability. As the questions got deeper, so did their answers. Leah found herself opening up in a way she hadn’t expected, sharing stories about her childhood, her struggles with her injury, and her dreams for the future. Gaia, in turn, revealed bits and pieces of her own life—her love for travel, her complicated relationship with her family, and her secret dream of one day settling down in a quiet little town in southern Italy.
By the time the food arrived, they were on question fifteen: “What is the greatest accomplishment of your life?”
Gaia thought for a moment, then answered: “Probably moving here. I had almost no savings, no plan B, my english was shit, I had no support from my family because they were pissed I dropped out of law school… It was hard but I was so happy once I started working. It helped me toughen up”.
“That’s impressive”. Said Leah with wide eyes. “I can’t imagine how difficult it must’ve been”.
“Yeah but that was ages ago. What about you?”
Leah paused, staring down at her burger. “Honestly? It used to be winning the Euros with England. But now… I think it’s surviving the setbacks. The injuries, the doubts. Just making it through, you know?”
Gaia reached out and lightly touched Leah’s arm, her gaze warm and understanding. “That’s a pretty incredible accomplishment.”
Leah looked up at her, their eyes meeting. For a moment, the world seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of them in the quiet intimacy of the room.
Gaia broke the silence first, her voice soft. “Ready for the next question?”
Leah nodded, her heart racing. “Always.”
They kept going and the atmosphere in the room shifted as Leah glanced down at the phone and asked question eighteen: “What is your most terrible memory?”
Gaia’s playful demeanor softened, her face falling just slightly. She hesitated for a moment, her eyes flicking to the ceiling as if trying to decide how much to share. Finally, she let out a long breath and said quietly, “It used to be my mum beating me up the day of my first communion.”
Leah’s breath caught in her throat, her heart twisting at the pain in Gaia’s voice.
“I was only nine,” Gaia continued, her voice steady but her gaze distant. “She used to do it a lot, but that was the first time I realized… no one in my family thought it was a bad thing. I remember standing there in my long puffy white dress, the one my grandmother made, and thinking… ‘This isn’t normal, is it?’ But no one said anything. It was normal to them”.
Leah’s chest ached, and she opened her mouth to say something—anything—but Gaia wasn’t done.
She looked down at her hands, fidgeting with the edge of the blanket. “But after today…” Her voice wavered slightly, and she swallowed hard before continuing. “I think today might’ve replaced it. It was the first time I’ve done CPR on an actual human. I felt his ribs breaking under my hands.” She shuddered, closing her eyes briefly. “I didn’t even realize what I was doing until it was over, like I was on auto-pilot, I knew what I had to do and I did it but... Once everyone was out…” She let out a shaky breath. “I vomited. It was awful, for all of us. Amanda had a panic attack. We were all crying. Crew Control said it was better for us to stay for the night and calm down than to risk having an episode and making a scene on the way back, even if we didn’t operate the flight”.
The silence that followed was heavy, filled only with the distant sound of the ocean outside the balcony. Leah sat frozen, unsure of how to respond. Words didn’t feel like enough, but she couldn’t just sit there and do nothing.
Slowly, she set the phone down on the bedside table, moved the food around as to not spill anything and shifted closer to Gaia. “Come here,” she murmured, motioning for her to move closer.
Gaia hesitated for only a moment before leaning into Leah’s open arms. Leah pulled her close, wrapping her arms around her and holding her tightly. Gaia rested her head on Leah’s shoulder, and for a long moment, neither of them said anything.
Leah could feel the tension in Gaia’s body slowly begin to ease, her breathing evening out as she relaxed into the embrace. “You’re incredible, you know that?” Leah said softly, her voice steady but full of conviction.
Gaia let out a quiet laugh, though it sounded more like a sigh. “I don’t feel incredible.”
“Well, you are,” Leah replied firmly. “You saved a man’s life today. That’s… not something most people can say. And what you went through as a kid…” She paused, her voice catching. “You didn’t deserve that. None of it.”
Gaia didn’t respond, but Leah could feel her hand clutching gently at the fabric of her shirt, as though anchoring herself to the moment.
After a few minutes, Gaia’s voice broke the silence, quiet but steady. “We still have more questions to get through, you know.”
Leah smiled, pressing her cheek against the top of Gaia’s head. “Do you want to keep going?”
Gaia nodded and sat up slightly, though she didn’t move far from Leah’s side. She reached for a plate with chips, setting it in between them and then took the phone, scrolling to the next question. “Alright… question nineteen: If you knew that in one year you would die suddenly, would you change anything about the way you’re living now? Why?”
Leah thought for a moment, her arms still loosely around Gaia. “Yeah, I think I’d change some things. I’d spend more time with the people I love, stop worrying so much about things that don’t really matter. Maybe take a few more risks.” She glanced down at Gaia, her lips quirking into a small smile. “Like answering the 36 Questions with a beautiful stranger.”
Gaia’s laughter was soft but genuine, and for the first time that evening, Leah felt like she’d managed to lighten the weight in the room.
“I think I’d save as much money as possible and then get unpaid leave for like the last three months and spend them in Bali. Die next to the beach in a cute bikini and a nice drink in my hand”.
They kept going, teasing and joking, having finished their dinner by the time they got to the twenty-fourth question. “How do you feel about your relationship with your mother?” Leah’s voice lowers as she reads the question.
The air between them shifts. Leah watches as Gaia’s little playful smirk fades, her fingers tightening around the stem of her glass. She doesn’t speak right away, and Leah, who has already learned that Gaia is rarely at a loss for words, immediately knows—this isn’t an easy one for her. Gaia exhales through her nose, staring at the question as if she could change it just by looking at it hard enough. “Well,” she says, her voice noticeably quieter, “that’s a loaded one, isn’t it?”
Leah stays silent, waiting. “You don’t have to answer”.
“I proposed the game, it’s okay”.
“But if you don’t want to…”
“I trust you”.
Leah’s breath catches for what seems to be the hundredth time today. She bites the inside of her cheeks while nodding.
Gaia presses her lips together, then tilts her head slightly, as if deciding how much to say. “I used to think,” she starts, voice measured, “that having a bad relationship with your parents was just… normal. Like, I knew not everyone’s mother hit them when they were angry but I did think everyone had to earn affection. That love was given out in tiny doses, only if you behaved exactly right.” She swallows. “It wasn’t until I was older that I realized that wasn’t how it was supposed to be.”
Leah feels a dull ache in her chest. She shifts slightly on the bed, their knees almost touching. “Gaia…”
Gaia shakes her head, waving a hand as if to dismiss any sympathy. “It’s fine. I mean, it’s not, but—I got out. I left home the second I could, and I never looked back.” She laughs, but there’s no humor in it. “And the best part? No one even cared. No one came after me. That just proved it, you know?”
Leah clenches her jaw, resisting the urge to reach for her hand. “I’m sorry.”
Gaia shrugs, as if it doesn’t matter. “I don’t really have a mother anymore. Not in the way that counts.” Silence lingers between them, heavy but not uncomfortable. Then Gaia shakes her head and forces a smirk, attempting to defuse the weight of her own words. “Alright, your turn. How’s your relationship with your mum?”
Leah takes a deep breath, glancing down at her hands. “It’s… good,” she says, almost feeling guilty about it. “She’s always been supportive, always pushed me to be better. I think she worries about me being alone, though.” She lets out a small chuckle. “You know, football takes over everything. Sometimes I forget to call as much as I should.”
Gaia hums, studying her, a small smile tugging at her lips. “She sounds like a good one.”
“She is.” Leah hesitates, then looks at her carefully. “If it means anything… I think it’s really fucking impressive that you got out. That you didn’t let it turn you into someone like her.”
Gaia meets her gaze, something flickering behind her dark eyes. She doesn’t say anything for a moment, then exhales softly, offering a small, genuine smile. “Thanks,” she murmurs.
Leah watches her, feeling a warmth settle in her chest. Slowly, cautiously, she lifts a hand and brushes Gaia’s fingers with her own. She half expects Gaia to pull away, but instead, she turns her hand over and links their fingers together, giving Leah’s a small squeeze.
For a moment, neither of them speaks. They don’t need to.
Then Gaia clears her throat and smirks. “Alright, footballer. Next question.”
And just like that, they move forward. But Leah knows—this moment will stay with her.
They continued the game, by the time they reached the final question, they were lying side by side on the bed, looking at the ceiling, still holding hands as they talked, thumbs brushing the other’s skin.
And when Gaia finally asked the last question—“Share a personal problem and ask for advice on how I might handle it”—Leah didn’t hesitate.
“I’ve been scared,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. “About my future, about… everything. My injury, my career, what comes next. I’m scared I won’t be the same player I was before.”
Gaia looked at her, her dark eyes filled with empathy and understanding. “You don’t have to figure it all out right now,” she said gently. “But you’re more than just a footballer, Leah. You’re strong, and kind, and resilient. Whatever happens, you’ll find your way.”
Leah felt a lump rise in her throat, but for the first time in a long time, it wasn’t fear or anxiety—it was gratitude. Gratitude for the woman beside her, who had somehow managed to make her feel seen and understood in a way she hadn’t expected.
They turned their heads at the same time. Their hearts beating strongly. Noses almost touching. The thought of getting closer crosses Leah’s mind. Gaia’s eyes glance at the blonde’s lips time and time again, wondering what it would feel to close the space between them and kiss the pretty girl in front of her.
They stayed like that for a while, the questions forgotten as they simply enjoyed each other’s presence, the quiet intimacy of the moment stretching long into the night.
Leah shifted slightly on the bed, glancing at the clock on the bedside table. It was late—later than she’d realized—and she sighed softly, knowing she probably shouldn’t overstay her welcome. She sat up, careful not to disturb Gaia. “I should probably go,” she said, her voice quiet but reluctant.
Gaia bit her lip, her eyes fixed on Leah’s face, their hands still linked. There was a playful glint in her gaze, but something else lingered beneath it—something softer, almost vulnerable. “Do you really want to?”
Leah froze, her heart skipping a beat. She opened her mouth to respond but faltered, her hesitation clear. Gaia’s question hung in the air, and Leah found herself unable to look away from those dark, captivating eyes.
Before Leah could overthink it, Gaia leaned in, closing the small gap between them. The kiss was soft, unhurried, and yet it sent a spark of electricity through Leah’s entire body. Gaia’s hand cupped Leah’s cheek, anchoring her in the moment, and Leah found herself leaning into the kiss, her fingers brushing against Gaia’s waist.
When they finally pulled apart, their faces still close, Leah let out a breathless laugh. “Fuck I’ve wanted to do that since I saw you in that dress”.
Gaia smiled, her thumb grazing Leah’s cheek before she whispered, “Do it again, then”.
The next morning, sunlight spilled through the curtains, casting a warm glow over the room. Leah stirred, her body instinctively curling closer to the warmth beside her. It took her a moment to realize where she was, and when she did, she couldn’t help but smile.
Gaia was still asleep, her face relaxed and peaceful, her arm draped over Leah’s waist. They were tangled together under the sheets, their bare skin warm against each other. Leah felt a surge of contentment wash over her as she replayed the events of the night before.
After a few minutes, Gaia’s eyes fluttered open, and she smiled sleepily at Leah. “Good morning.”
“Morning,” Leah replied, her voice soft while caressing Gaia’s cheek. The italian got closer, her face now hidden between Leah’s neck and shoulder, placing a small kiss there.
They stayed like that for a little while, neither of them in any rush to leave the comfort of the bed. Eventually, though, the sound of bustling activity outside the room reminded them that the world hadn’t stopped just because they’d found each other.
“We should probably get some breakfast,” Gaia said, stretching lazily before sitting up, the soft sheet falling from her body.
Leah nodded, though she couldn’t help but feel a pang of disappointment as the moment ended. “Yeah, before Alessia comes knocking on my door looking for me.”
Gaia laughed as she got in the shower, and within twenty minutes, they were making their way downstairs to the hotel restaurant.
As soon as they entered the breakfast area, Leah froze. Across the room, her friends—Alessia, Beth, Viv, and Jen—had pushed their table together with the crew’s, leaving two empty spots in the middle. They were all eating breakfast together, and the moment they spotted Leah and Gaia, every single one of them turned to look.
Alessia was the first to react, her eyes widening in delight before she let out an exaggerated gasp. “Leah! Gaia! What a coincidence!”
Gaia raised an eyebrow, smirking slightly as she glanced at Leah. “Your friends seem… excited.”
“Kill me now,” Leah muttered under her breath, her cheeks already flushing. They went to fill their plates with food from the breakfast buffet before taking their —apparently designated— seats.
The teasing began before they even reached the table. Beth was grinning ear to ear, Viv was trying (and failing) to keep a straight face, and Jen looked far too pleased with herself. Meanwhile, Francesca and Alina were whispering amongst themselves, barely concealing their laughter. Amanda was quiet but had a shy smile on her face. Without makeup and wearing normal clothes, she looked her age more than ever.
“I hope you both slept well,” Francesca said sweetly, though the glint in her eye betrayed her teasing intent.
Gaia took it in stride, her confidence unwavering. “We did, thank you. And you?”
Francesca waved a hand dismissively, clearly unprepared for Gaia’s composure. “Oh, just fine. Nothing interesting to report.”
“Gaia!” Alessia suddenly exclaimed, leaning across the table. “You should’ve seen Leah last night—she was so worried about you after that coffee incident! She wouldn’t shut up about it for hours.”
“Alessia,” Leah hissed, glaring at her best friend.
“What?” Alessia said innocently, her grin widening. “I’m just saying, it’s cute.”
Gaia chuckled, her eyes flicking to Leah. “Is that so?”
Leah groaned, burying her face in her hands. “Can we please change the subject?”
“Absolutely not,” Jen said with a wicked grin.
The teasing had definitely not stopped as they ate. In fact, it intensified after Jen checked TikTok for a moment, only to find someone had recorded the whole incident from the day before. Beth took her phone and started reading aloud the comments: how hot they all are, how professional they remained and a couple of them remarking that flight attendants are actually trained for everything.
Leah couldn’t help but squirm in her seat as Beth read out the comments. Her face was beet red, and she felt all eyes on her, the teasing relentless. She tried to ignore it, but the more they read, the more embarrassed she became.
Amanda wasn’t really paying attention, Francesca flipped her long braids with an exaggeratedly smug expression on her face. Alina asked to be sent the video so she could show it to her husband.
“Actually I want it too, I’ll need it to write the report”. The groans from the other cabin crew didn’t wait. “Don’t be like that, we have to write it anyway. I might also send it to the instructor, it will be good for whomever is doing the anual examination soon”.
“You’re going viral Gaia!” Exclaimed Beth. “The super-hot superhero”.
“I swear, if I hear ‘hot flight attendants’ one more time, I’m going to die,” Leah muttered under her breath, covering her face with her hands.
Jen just smirked at her. “Come on, Leah, you’ve got a real-life hero sitting next to you. You can’t deny that’s pretty cool.”
Leah shot her a glare but couldn’t argue. Jen wasn’t wrong.
Not long after, Captain Stefan stood up from the end of the table and walked over, his usual serious demeanor replaced with a hint of concern. “Gaia, can I have a word? About yesterday’s incident,” he asked, his tone gentle but firm.
Gaia gave a small nod, looking visibly drained for a moment from everything that had happened before regaining her composure. They walked off toward the hotel’s pool area for some privacy, and the girls continued to talk amongst themselves, but curiosity got the better of them. As soon as the rest of the crew left the breakfast area, Beth stood up and left with Jen to spy on what was being said between the captain and the cabin supervisor, watching as the two of them engaged in a serious conversation a few meters away from the main area. Alessia, Viv and Leah followed shortly after.
Stefan and Gaia were deep in conversation, not noticing the little crowd just a few meters from them pretending to sunbathe on the sunbeds .
Leah’s attention was caught by the occasional words drifting over.
“…aircraft was Echo India Delta Yankee Papa…” Stefan’s voice was low and professional.
“…incident occurred about thirty minutes to landing, so 18:45 Zulu…” Gaia replied, her voice sounding tired but still sharp.
Beth leaned over to Jen and whispered, “That sounds like another language. I don’t even understand half of it.”
“Yeah, it’s like they’re talking in codes or something,” Jen chuckled.
But Leah wasn’t listening to them. Her eyes were still on Gaia. She couldn’t stop looking at her, drawn to her strength, her grace, and the vulnerability that was barely masked behind her stoic demeanor.
Suddenly, Gaia’s facade cracked. She buried her face in her hands, her shoulders shaking as the weight of everything she had gone through the day before came crashing down.
Leah’s heart lurched at the sight. She felt a strong urge to go to her, to comfort her, but she didn’t know if it was the right time. She stayed frozen, unsure of what to do.
“It was so fucking scary, Stefan…” Gaia sobbed, her voice shaky with emotion.
Stefan responded by pulling her into a tight, reassuring hug. It was clear that they had known each other for years, a bond forged by countless flights and shared experiences.
Leah kept watching, her heart aching. She wanted to help, but she didn’t want to intrude. Just as she was about to turn away, Stefan caught her eye and gave her a gentle nod, silently encouraging her to approach.
The soft smile on his face made Leah feel a little more at ease.
“Do you want me to call crew control and get you another night here? You look like you could use it,” Stefan offered kindly.
Gaia looked up at him, her eyes red-rimmed, but there was a glimmer of hope in her gaze. “You can do that?” she asked, her voice hoarse.
Stefan chuckled softly. “I’m the base captain. I can do whatever I want. Just let me make the call for you.”
With that, Stefan walked off to make the call, Gaia alone. Leah hesitated for a moment, unsure whether or not to approach, but her heart told her to go.
She sat down beside Gaia, who was still wiping at her eyes, clearly embarrassed by the breakdown. Leah gently pulled her close, wrapping her arms around her, not giving her a chance to protest.
Gaia bit her lip, clearly uncomfortable but also grateful for Leah’s presence. “Sorry about that,” she murmured, her voice still shaky. “I didn’t want to break down in front of everyone. I’ve always thought that crying in public is embarrassing”.
Leah smiled softly, her fingers gently brushing through Gaia’s hair. “You’re allowed to. You’ve been through a lot. I’m just glad you’re okay.”
Gaia nodded, her eyes filled with gratitude, but it was clear she was still processing everything. Leah held her close, and for the first time, she felt like everything else faded into the background.
They stayed like that for a while, letting the sun warm them, enjoying the quiet companionship in the midst of everything that had happened.
As the minutes passed, Leah pulled Gaia by her legs, urging her to cuddle on her lap, feeling her tension slowly ease away. The weight of everything, from the medical emergency to the emotional toll it had taken on Gaia, seemed to melt away in the comfort of their shared space.
They didn’t say much, but there was something about the stillness between them that spoke volumes. It was as if, for a moment, the rest of the world had stopped, and all that mattered was that they were together.
Warnings: Long, mentions of smut but not really, crappy writing
Leah thinks she’s smart, or at least that she has outsmarted you. You don’t know, no you can’t know there is no way on earth you know she’s careful so so careful.
She leaves the car in the park across the street, she only goes during certain times, when she’s going for a run, 6pm on weekdays and 9 am on the weekends.
Leah doesn’t venture out that way any other time unless it’s with you, when you beg and plead to go for a stroll around the park, hands intertwined together as you talk and talk. Do you ever stop talking ? She thinks to herself one day as you walk around the park.
Leah’s not paying attention not that she does anymore because she only agrees to go to the park mid afternoon on the weekends when she knows SHE’S out running, running around the park that you’re walking in. The park you picture your kids running around in at the same time Leah tracks HER with her eyes watching HER run closer to you both.
You don’t suspect a thing Leah thinks, no she knows you don’t suspect anything, she’s careful. She doesn’t wear perfume, she makes sure SHE isn’t wearing perfume, no lipstick nothing that could leave a mark nothing that could leave a scent that you could pick up on.
She ensures her stuff is folded neatly her wedding band placed on top, so that she isn’t missing anything, so that she doesn’t accidentally take anything, she fleeces her pockets making sure nothing has been left in them.
It happened once, SHE thought she was being cute, sexy even leaving HER red thong tucked into Leah’s coat pocket, Leah had only found it as she got into the car and it fell out onto the seat.
They had their first argument then. “I’m married, you can’t be giving me your knickers thinking it’s sexy, if my wife finds out that I…” SHE laughs “if she finds out what that you’re cheating on her.” It ends there, the argument. Leah swears to herself that she double checks everything before leaving the park.
Lying is easy for Leah now, it happens without a single thought, she can still remember the first time it happened. “God love your stats from your run are crazy did you sprint the entire time.” You know how long it takes her to run 5k, 10k even, of course you do you’ve played together forever but her stupid watch is going to get her caught she thinks. “I just wanted to push myself, you know I just..I wanted to prove to myself I could do it.” Leah hates the way your face softens, the way you automatically go into supportive mode, you remind her for the rest of the day how amazing she is, that she’s doesn’t need to prove anything to anyone not even herself. You hold her and tell her how amazing she is and she hates it.
But now it’s a second hand response she doesn’t think of it, doesn’t think twice of you caring for her that bit more, she doesn’t blink as it leads to more, she leads it to more every time and you go along with it, she needs this, your wife needs this and so you do it, and for a split second the world is alright.
She thinks she’s smart, that she never forgets to slip her ring back on, she tried to leave it on once but it felt so heavy and she panicked taking it off, it was her granny’s ring the one her grandpa gave to her on their wedding, she couldn’t do that to them, to the ring that had seen so much love.
Leah’s smart, she knows she’s smart but all it takes is one trip for the entire thing to come tumbling down.
She’s late home from running not by much but by enough that your suspicions arise, Leah doesn’t do late, early is late for Leah and so you wonder what takes her so long, she rush’s in moments later apologies thrown left and right and she pulls you into a heated kiss.
You want to tell her, you can’t wait to tell her but she’s all frazzled and not paying attention and if you say it now it won’t be as special and she’s not wearing her ring.
Wait she’s not wearing her ring, “Le darling where is your ring.” Leah freezes slightly before you watch her hand reach into her pocket pulling it out “sorry I took it off i think my fingers swelling from that handball in practice and I didn’t want it to get stuck.” You soften holding out your hand “oh Le I’ll get you some ice.” Leah hands over her ring and watch’s you slip it on top of your own so that you don’t lose it.
Leah sits down watching you walk around the kitchen, pulling you in to stand between her legs before pulling you into a kiss, “will you stop I have to pee” you hit her playfully before heading out the kitchen.
This isn’t Leah’s ring, it’s to light, sure it’s similar but it’s not it, you know this for a fact and as you slip it off and check for the engraving your heart drops, her grandparents initials aren’t on it, both your initials aren’t on it, it’s not her wedding ring.
Maybe she just misplaced it and is to scared to tell you. But it’s her granny’s ring, Leah loves that ring more than anything and she’s probably devastated that it’s gone.
Leah’s panicking she knows it’s not her ring and if she knows you definitely know. But she doesn’t expect you to come back so soft and understanding, “it’s ok we’ll find it where was the last place you had it.” HER house Leah thinks “eh-eh training I-I think I’m sorry darling I just I don’t know what to do.” That night ends like every night ends these days, and you think now is the perfect time to tell her in the darkness of your room but Leah just drops to the side and turns over whispering a goodnight as you stare at her.
You feel dirty every time this happens, you feel like a gross one night stand the way she turns away from you instead of pulling you closer like she used to but you put down to her being upset about her ring the same way you put it down to something else bothering her every time you end up in this situation.
Leah thinks she’s outsmarted you but as you lay there in bed reeling from the fact your wife hasn’t held you after sex in months, hasn’t told you how much she loves you as she brings you to climax and you can’t help but feel your heart grow heavy.
But as you lie there you can’t help but reply every possible reason why she’s like this, why she has been like this for a while now.
She does her daily runs, you guys go for your walks hand in hand as you talk the ear off her, but she’s never complained, Leah watches others pass you both by, this one girl runs past you both every weekend like clock work, you have noticed this a while ago and although you used to think it was a coincidence you’re starting to think otherwise.
She runs past you both every weekend always smiles at you, or at Leah more like, Leah’s hand gets lighter in your own every time, her grip isn’t as firm you think as you recall every walk in the park.
Leah doesn’t talk, she listens and watches, she watches her run around the park while you walk beside her.
Leah always gets a little weird after her runs, she’s more touchy, more soft, quieter, you thought it was just from the long runs. But now you second guess it.
Her ring is the first thing she’s misplaced tho you think to yourself, maybe that was at the training ground.
But you both tore it up the day after and found nothing and the Arsenal girls were none the wiser on it’s whereabouts. Leah goes for her run again that night and you feel this dread seep into your bones.
You feel sick to your stomach when the pieces all click in together, when you’re walking in the park Leah’s hand laced with yours, you try to stay normal talking about anything and everything but you stutter as SHE runs past and smiles at you, this time right at you not Leah, YOU.
Your eyes don’t stay on her face very long instead they are drawn to the gold circle resting on the chain around her neck, your eyes widen and you stop momentarily if Leah wasn’t holding your hand she wouldn’t have noticed it but she is and she did and she freezes too.
It’s on HER necklace, Leah’s wedding band is on that girls necklace and you feel nauseous as you try to continue your walk. Your wifes wedding ring is around that random girls neck, you know why but you don't want to-she's cheating, no she can't be she loves you, you're the love of her life, the one she wants everything with she's said so herself.
Leah’s cheating on you and it’s so plainly obvious now as you think back to it all, the first time you checked for her phone’s location and it said it was at a house across from the park, “oh it just give you a general location it’s not precise love.”
“I love you.” She whispers as she holds you from behind, “I know you do Le, and I’m so proud of you for beating your personal best but you don’t have to push yourself so hard, you’re perfect.”
“Yeah we could do dinner what time suits you guys.” You say happily excited to join Beth and Viv on a double date “6pm work.” Beth asks but before you can respond Leah shakes her head “sorry mate no can do, it’s my running time can we do after like 7:30 ?.” Beth looks at you then back at Leah “can’t you just skip it mate.” “No I have a schedule and I’m not changing it for you.”
You tap the table nervously “yeah we could do 8:45 am on Saturday, let me just say it to Leah.” “Leah.” You shout smiling as the older girl pokes her head around the door “they can fit us in at 8:45 on Saturday morning that works right.” Leah thinks for a moment torn, “I can’t baby it’s my running time remember.” You feel your heart drop “but it’s our check up to see if it’s taken Le surly you can just go after.” Leah shakes her head “do they have any other time.” You sigh “hi sorry ehm do you have anything else, 2pm Monday.” You look to Leah for confirmation she nods happily before disappearing back into the sitting room.
All the times she’s been consistent with her runs in that stupid park, her watch alerting you to the fact she has finished a workout shortly before 6:60 but she won’t be home till 7:10, her inability to hold you during sex anymore cause that’s all it is it’s just sex not making love like she used to say and it’s that silly circle hanging around that random girls neck that sets it all together. All the stupid pieces.
You don’t know what to do, don’t know how to bring it up this isn’t supposed to go like this, your life, your marriage but it is and you’re terrified of the aftermath so so terrified that you don’t realise how numb you’ve gone till you speak up.
Leah’s sat on the couch you’re tucked into her side “she’s gorgeous.” You say suddenly Leah hums in confusion “who’s gorgeous darlin.” You let out a shaky breath “the girl you’re sleeping with.” Leah goes tense immediately “I-i-wha-i Leah splutters trying to find the words “what girl.” You continue on your voice calm but still unsteady “the girl who wears your wedding ring around her neck”
Leah knows she’s lost now but it doesn’t help that her phone starts to ping with an in coming message “I-Y/n-I.” You shake your head getting up “I’m going out, I-i don’t know why, I don’t want to know why anymore I’m just, I can’t believe that you did after everything.”
Leah doesn’t move as you walkout still her mouth opens and closes trying to fathom I lie to rope you back in but her mind blank and you’re no longer in the garden.
Leah doesn’t hear from you for a week after that no idea if you’re ok. She doesn’t hear from anyone and instead off running away to the park SHE comes over Leah swears it’s to comfort her through this hard time but there is very little talking involved.
Leah doesn’t hear from you or anyone to caught up in her new bubble and it finally bursts as her mum crashes through the door “ you absolutely idiot, you fucking idiot how did I raise you to be such an asshole that you would go and cheat on your wife.” Amanda’s attention is now turned to HER as she lies on your side of the bed “You are a fucking asshole Leah Williamson, I have never been so disappointed in you in my entire life.”
Leah’s lost still how did her mother know she hadn’t told her yet, sure she was going to but she was scared Amanda adores you, you’re perfect.
“I’ll be lucky if she lets me see the baby you asshole”
Baby ? Leah thinks, what baby. Suddenly it all comes back and SHES shoved away “She’s pregnant, Y/ns pregnant it-it worked”
Amanda huffs “you didn’t even know-you didn’t fucking know.” Leah shook her head “no.”
SHE lets out a huff running her hands over Leah’s arms “it’s ok baby we can have our own now, just like you promised.” And now it’s Leah’s turn to feel nausea. She never wanted kids with anyone else but you, this isn’t right, what she’s done to you to your future isn’t right but you’re gone and there’s nothing she can do about.
Leah’s smart but right now she’s the biggest idiot going. She’s lost you, lost you forever ?
Arsenal x teen r where she has had a really tiring day and falls asleep on the bench during the game. (Minor ausenal x r bc she’s a Tillie)
the big screen
Arsenal x teen!reader
super short but pretty cute
Warnings: none
———————————————————————
You were still sprinting. It felt like you hadn’t stopped in days. Receiving a ball from Lia you made your way around some of the west ham girls, ball at your feet, running towards Beth who seemed to be completely open and running up with you, before you no longer felt the ground at your boots and were knocked down.
Quickly getting up and throwing your hands up at the ref who kept on running with the play, you were running up and down once again. Your body was younger than the rest of the team, so you could physically handle longer minutes than most of the older girls. And were usually playing a full game, but, tonight it was killing you.
When you finally found your number on the substitution board you quickly made your way over to the sidelines, bringing in Kyra for a split hug before she was taking your position for the remaining time.
A few of your closest teammates were currently on the bench. You hugged Jonas briefly and he acknowledged your great efforts, Viv and Vic split from sitting next to each other so you could sit in between, vic shuffling over one seat.
Puffer and water bottle now in hand you comepletly collapsed into the seat. Throwing your head back in exhaustion.
“Brilliant work tiny!!” Vic cheerfully said ruffling your hair
“Thanks” you smiled at her
“Yeah you played incredible” Viv said rubbing your arm. Leah quickly made her way over from where she was to squeeze both your hands standing in front of you.
“Brilliant effort so so proud of you” she smiled at you.
During the match, you managed to assist two goals in the first half, with Beth and Steph.
2 minutes later, your head met Viv’s shoulder. You were incredibly tired and as the hammers slotted in their first goal, you sighed, your eyes slowly shutting.
commentators ;
“Now looking at that incredibly talented bench for the um Arsenal. Including injured Leah Williamson, England captain, who is set to play her first match back in early 2024”
the camera quickly zooms over to you asleep.
“And our teenage star for Arsenal seems to have fallen asleep” the commentator laughs along with the other two on the microphones. Some in the stadium laugh at your fast asleep state on the big screen amongst emirates stadium.
Vic, wanting to see your reaction, quickly shakes you awake, your eyes slowly flutter open with both Viv and Vic laughing. You immediately saw a replay of your face asleep, now flicking back to the present image of you laughing. Face bright red. Before it quickly pans back to the game.
“Why did you let me fall asleep!” You exclaim hitting Viv in the chest.
“You’re a cute sleeper tiny” Viv giggles.
——————
You were pulled by Leah to join her post-match interview with Alex Scott. You were familiar with the ex Arsenal girl and looked up to her as a role model.
“Hello star!” Smiled Alex as she hugged you, before hugging Leah. Someone working for the broadcast handing both of you microphones. “Now y/n, you ran insane, you were always on the ball. Your performance definitely impacted the result of today’s victory. How are you feeling right now?” Alex said slightly giggling with the last part.
“Physically; tired-“
“Oh sweetie we know” Alex laughed with Leah.
“You know I’m not super proud of Emirates stadium seeing that! I don’t know how I managed to fall asleep right there” you exclaimed laughing
“no but obviously a little sore in the legs but mentally so so proud of this team. To Steph and Beth for both of there incredible shots. And everyone who gave their ultimate effort, we took another win and we will take it again next week” you smiled with pride.
Slightly looking at Leah as you spoke, looking for an acknowledgment that you were saying the right words. She would just smile and nod at you to keep going.
“I’m sure the team is so proud of the effect you have made on the team since your singing” Alex said, directing towards Leah
“Yeah we all watch her play and give it 100% every weekend and it’s incredible, and you know in training she’s a tough player to get past I won’t lie” you smiled as Leah spoke, hearing the girls you have looked up to since you were a little girl made your heart heat up immensely.
“Oh awesome well I’ll catch up with you lot later and enjoy your night”
“Thanks Alex” you both smiled before leaving the interview and hugging her goodbye.
“Now let’s get you back home so you can sleep hey?” Leah said squeezing your shoulders as you walked across the pitch.
“Har har. Now please carry me” you said sarcastically before smiling at the taller girl. She slightly rolled her eyes before turning around ready for you to jump on her back.
“Woo!” You yelled as Leah ran with you on her back.
“Hi Bubba, good morning!” You heard Leah speak through the baby monitor as she lifted Finley out of his cot. “Oh, such a big stretch! Did you have a good sleep? Wanna go find Mummy?”
Leah carried Finley into the bedroom, his tiny hands gripping her shirt as she walked in, with a smile on her face. You were already sitting up in bed, waiting for the both of them. The moment Finley saw you, his eyes lit up, and he let out a little squeal of joy.
"There's Mummy!" Leah said, bringing him closer to you. You reached out to take him, and as soon as he was in your arms, he snuggled close, his little head resting against your chest. Leah sat down on the edge of the bed beside you and leaned in to kiss you on the forehead.
"Good morning, love," she said softly.
"Good morning," you replied, looking down at Finley who was already beginning to babble excitedly, his little hands reaching out to touch your face.
Leah watched the two of you with a contented smile before she checked the time on her watch. “I’ve got training soon, but I’ll be back before you know it. Maybe we can grab lunch together later?”
“That sounds perfect,” you said, giving her a reassuring smile. “We’ll come by the gym later, let Finley show off his new tricks.”
Leah chuckled, “He’s getting so good at crawling now. The girls won’t believe how fast he’s growing.”
You both cuddled for a few more minutes, enjoying the quiet intimacy of the morning before Leah reluctantly got up to get ready for training. Finley watched her, eyes wide with curiosity as she changed into her Arsenal gear, his little mouth forming an “O” of surprise every time she pulled something over her head.
“What’s got you so interested huh?” Leah smiled, leaning close to Finley to tickle his stomach.
He cooed once again, “Ooohhh!” Leah repeated the noise he made before pressing a kiss on his forehead.
Once Leah was dressed, she bent down to give both you and Finley a kiss goodbye. “See you later, pretty girl,” she said, her voice filled with affection.
“Good luck at training!” you called after her, holding Finley up so he could wave goodbye with his tiny hand. Leah waved back before she headed out the door.
As the front door clicked shut, you turned your attention back to Finley, who was still waving his tiny hand and babbling cheerfully.
“Well, Bubba, what do you say we have some breakfast?” you asked, gently rubbing his stomach. Finley responded with a giggle, his little legs kicking happily in your arms. You carried him into the kitchen, where you set him down in his high chair and began preparing breakfast.
While Finley played with his favourite teething toy, you quickly made some oatmeal and sliced up a banana. You hummed softly to yourself as you worked, glancing occasionally at Finley who was now trying to grab at a stray spoon on the table.
Breakfast was messy. More oatmeal ended up more on Finley’s bib than in his mouth, but his delighted squeals made every bit of it worthwhile. You made sure to keep him entertained with little games and silly faces.
After breakfast, you decided it was time for a walk in the park. You bundled him up in his stroller, making sure he was warm and cosy and set off for the park.
The November air greeted you as you stepped outside, and you could see Finley’s cheeks flush with soft pink from the cool breeze. He babbled happily as you pushed the stroller towards the park, his tiny hands reaching out to grasp the toy that hung above him.
You found a quiet spot near the pond, where a few ducks were already swimming about. Finley’s eyes widened with wonder as he spotted them.
“Look, Finley, ducks!” you said, pointing towards the pond. His little hands shot up in excitement, and he made a happy noise that made you smile.
You parked the stroller and lifted Finley out, carefully holding him so he could get a closer look at the ducks. They paddled around, occasionally quacking and dipping their heads under the water. Finley watched intently, his eyes following their every move.
You decided to feed the ducks a few pieces of bread you’d brought along. You broke the bread into small bits and tossed them into the water. The ducks swam over, quacking and flapping their wings as they nibbled at the crumbs.
Finley let out a giggle, clapping his hands as he watched the ducks. After spending some time feeding the ducks and watching them swim, you decided it was time to head back home. Finley was starting to get tired, his earlier excitement settling down.
You gently placed him back into the stroller, wrapped him warmly in his blanket, and started the walk back. As you walked, Finley’s eyelids grew heavy, and he soon drifted off to sleep.
You headed back home. Once inside, you carefully transferred Finley to his crib, letting him sleep peacefully while you tidied up and prepared for your own tasks for the day.
When it was time, you bundled Finley into his car seat and headed to the gym. The moment you walked in, Finley’s eyes lit up as he recognized the familiar surroundings. Leah was finishing up her session, her teammates chatting and laughing as they cooled down.
“Look who’s here!” Steph called out as she spotted you, the others turned to see Finley being carried in his car seat.
Leah immediately broke into a grin, walking over to you and leaning down to kiss Finley. “Hi, Bubba! Did you miss me?”
Finley responded with an excited babble, his hands reaching out for Leah. She picked him up, and he immediately started squirming in her arms, eager to be set down.
She sat him down on the gym mat, and the girls gathered around, cheering him on as he started to crawl across the floor, his movements confident and quick. His little face was a picture of concentration as he moved, and the girls clapped and cheered, encouraging him with each inch he covered.
“He’s going to be a footballer, just like his mum!” Katie joked, causing Leah to laugh as she watched her son.
Finley, hearing the laughter and cheers, sits up on his own, looking around proudly as if to say.
“He’s such a show-off already,” Leah said, pulling you close with one arm as you both watched Finley interact with his aunties. It was clear that he was the centre of attention, and he loved it.
You smiled at Leah, leaning into her side as you both enjoyed the moment. “I think we might have a little star in the making.”
Leah grinned, “With all this attention? Of course, he’s going to be a star!”
“Look at you!” Beth cooed as Finley crawled over to her and sat in her lap, “You’re getting so big, Finn!”
“Tell me about it!” You sighed, “He’s growing up too fast, I miss him being a tiny newborn.”
“Are ya getting that itch to have another?” Katie joked.
You shook your head, “No way. Not for a few more years at least, pregnancy was rough on me, I don’t even know if I want to carry again!”
Leah chuckled and gave your hip a reassuring squeeze. “We’ll cross that bridge when we get to it. For now, let’s enjoy our little guy and these moments together.”
Finley, now happily perched on Beth’s lap, reached up with his tiny hands to grab at her necklace, making her laugh. “Careful there, buddy!”
Leah watched with a smile, then turned to you. “Let’s grab a quick bite after this. There’s a nice café around the corner, and I’m starving.”
You nodded in agreement. “Sounds great. Let’s let Finley enjoy his time with everyone here a bit longer, and then we’ll head out.”
The session began to wind down, and the teammates started gathering their things. Leah, noticing that Finley was getting a bit fussy from all the excitement, gently picked him up and held him close. He nestled his head against her shoulder, his eyelids drooping.
“Looks like someone’s ready for another nap,” Leah said softly. “Let’s get him settled before we go.”
You packed up Finley’s things while Leah calmed him down. As you all headed to the café, Leah carried a drowsy Finley in her arms. At the café, you managed to find a quiet corner where Leah could feed Finley a bottle while you ordered some sandwiches and coffee.
With Finley finally settled and sleeping peacefully in his stroller, you both enjoyed a quiet, relaxed lunch. Leah reached across the table to hold your hand, her eyes reflecting a mix of love and exhaustion.
“Were you serious when you said you don’t know if you want to carry another baby?” Leah asked you.
You looked at Leah. “Yeah, I think I am serious. It was tough, and I’m not sure I want to go through it again. But,” you continued, “I want more kids and so do you…”
“I can always carry next,” Leah said, “It doesn’t have to be you.”
You smiled. “Really? You’d be okay with that?”
Leah nodded, squeezing your hand. “If it means we get to grow our family, then yes. I've always thought it would be amazing to carry a baby.”
You smiled at her, feeling a sense of relief and excitement about the future. “Let’s take it one step at a time and see how things go. For now, I’m just happy with our little family and looking forward to whatever comes next.”
Leah leaned over and kissed you softly. “Me too. Let’s enjoy these moments with Finley and see where life takes us.”
After lunch, you decided to take a leisurely walk back home, enjoying the crisp afternoon air. Finley stayed sound asleep in his stroller, and Leah and you took the opportunity to talk about plans for the coming days and dream about future adventures as a family.
As you arrived home, you settled Finley into his crib for a longer nap, and then you and Leah curled up on the couch for a well-deserved rest. With the house quiet and cosy, you both took a moment to savour the peaceful end to a perfect day.
Summary You and Leah decide to design Mini Williamson in her own special kit.
A/N Very very old fic that’s been sat in my drafts forever
You and Leah had come up with an idea for the euro final.
For the second time running, the lionesses had made it to the euro final, and for the second time running, it was Leah leading them.
It was such a big thing, that when the idea popped into your head, you knew you had to do it.
You and Leah had agreed to make Charlie a dress made out of an England kit.
Charlie loved dresses, she always had such a big smile on her face when she saw you were putting a dress on her, so you figured, why not make her a dress so she can support her mummy and aunties?
Amelia, however, was Leah’s mascot for the final, she had been throughout the whole tournament, and so she was wearing a kit.
One night, you and Leah were in bed and decided to design the dress yourselves, before taking it to a dressmakers.
When you received the dress back, you decided to not let Leah see it, hoping to make it a surprise.
When the time came to put it on Charlie, emotions were high, purely due to it being such a big day, but seeing it on her made you so happy.
You and Leah had spent so much time working on designing the dress and it looked perfect.
You couldn’t wait to see Leah’s reaction.
Charlie babbled to herself as she played with the bottom of the dress.
“Ami!” You called her as she came running into the room.
“Yes, mama?” Amelia asked before gasping. “Look at your dress, Charlie!”
Amelia’s speech had improved so much now that she was three, like there had been a massive jump between two and three.
“It looks pretty doesn’t it, just like you two.” You told Amelia, looking at your two girls as they wore their outfits.
You pressed a kiss to both their heads, before picking up Charlie and resting her on your hip.
“Ready to go see mummy?” You questioned and Ami nodded straight away, Charlie babbling, clearly saying ‘mummy’ which happened to be the latest word she’d learnt to say.
—
The final whistle had blown, England had won the euros again.
Leah fell to the floor crying, as you watched her with tears streaming down your face.
“Mummy win!” Ami cheered, hugging Amanda, who was sat next to her.
Once Leah had celebrated with her teammates, you were the first one she went to.
She enveloped you in a hug, before kissing you deeply.
“I’m so proud, le. So so proud.” You whispered as you rested your forehead on hers.
“Thank you, love. Hi, baby girls.” Leah said, hugging Ami and taking Charlie in her arms.
“Mummy you won!” Amelia cheered again, as Leah nodded with a big smile, moving Charlie to one arm so she pick up Ami too.
She kissed both of them on their cheeks as they both laughed.
“Look at your dress, Charlie. Don’t you look gorgeous.” Leah said, looking at Charlie’s dress. “We’re good designers, aren’t we?” Leah joked, and you agreed.
“Mummy, we go on pitch? Me go see auntie lessi.” Amelia asked and Leah nodded, picking her up and heaving her over the barricade.
Beth then came over to take Charlie too, putting her on the floor and helping her walk over to the rest of the team.
“At least we know that if your career somehow ends suddenly, we know you can be a designer.” You joked, as Leah wrapped her arm around your waist pulling you closer.
“As long as you’re my business partner.” Leah said and you hummed.
“Of course.”
“Hey! Why does Ami have Russo on the back of her shirt?” Leah questioned, her jaw wide open as her signature frown, that both your daughters had, appeared on her face.
“Ami insisted that she wore auntie lessi’s shirt. I had to force her to wear a Williamson one before she walked out the tunnel. As soon as she got to the sidelines, she made me put her Russo one on.” You explained, watching Leah’s face turn red with anger.
You laughed at her anger, watching her jump the barrier before jogging over to Amelia.
“Amelia Williamson! Why have you got that shirt on? Amelia, don’t you run away.”
Ami then pushed Leah to the floor where the confetti was, coating her head to tow in confetti.
Leah gently took ami in her arms, pulling her down too.
Charlie came over laying down before rolling in it.
You couldn’t help but smile at the scene in front of you.
Your three girls laughing and smiling away.
“Y/N, come!” You heard Leah shout as she gestured for you to come to them.
You rolled your eyes with a smile, before jumping the barrier and walking to them.
Leah tackled you to the floor, you landing on top of her.
You smiled at her confetti covered face before leaning down and connecting your lips.
“Children here.” You heard Amelia say, resting her hands on her hips, before looking at Leah, the two of you laughing.
“She gets her attitude from you.” Leah told you, and you smacked her arm lightly.
“No she doesn’t.” You defended, standing up and resting your hands on your hips, just like Ami did.
Warnings: first time I have written anything in weeks so I’m rusty, couple of curse words
“ I don’t know what’s wrong with me.” Leah let out quietly in the darkness of your shared hotel room. She had been struggling more then usual lately and you could see it plain as day, you weren’t the only one but you were the only one she had voiced it to and so you kept quite, still, scared that if you moved she would shut off again.
“I love Arsenal, I….I have loved Arsenal forever…I will love Arsenal forever….but I don’t know if I can keep doing this… and now with England I feel like I’ve lost it.” There’s a beat of silence before she shifts turning on her side to look at you.
It’s dark but you can make out the way the tears shimmer at the bottom of her eyes, how her chin is wobbling, how she’s holding her breath trying to stop herself from feeling.
You roll over too, both of you staring at each other, you want to hold her tell her she’s ok, that she’s going to be ok but you don’t know if she wants to be touched so you settle for just looking at her before letting out a soft sigh.
“You have been through so much…you are going through so much, you love Arsenal but it hasn’t been kind to you recently…he hasn’t been kind to you recently even now when he’s gone he has taken so much from you that you are scared to be you, to preform to your full potential….he has taken away your love for the game Le, you haven’t lost it…it was stolen from you and now you just have to take it back…I’ll help you take it back.”
You watch the tears start to fall, the shimmer in her eyes now carving a path down her cheeks and you go to wipe them away but she grabs your hand pulling you towards her.
“Help me.” She sounds like a child , a lost little girl who can’t find her mum in the store and has lost all hope.
“In every way I can.” Leah shuffles so that she is now lying on top of you, you can’t see her eyes anymore but you can still feel the tears as they run off her cheeks and on to your chest.
The next morning is a day off, Leah doesn’t talk but she clings to you through breakfast, the girls surprised that the normal chatter box is so quiet and the fact that she is openly lying on top of you as you finish your food, how unfazed you are running your free hand through her hair gently while talking to Alex.
You have decided to take the two of you away from the group, rented a car and drive quietly around Coventry before parking at a park.
You pull Leah out of the car before making your way to the boot and taking out a football, Leah looks at you eyebrows forward in confusion, you ignore her stare taking her hand and walking into the park gently rolling the ball in front of you.
You stop in an open wide field, it’s a field surrounded by trees, no people, no goals, no people, just a field. You roll the ball gently to Leah and watch as she rolls it gently back, you both go back and forth slowly before you take a step back and kick it harder, you continue to move further from her as your passes get longer.
You go for a long kick only to slip back and fall into the grass and for the first time in weeks you hear her laugh. “Hey that’s not funny that fucking hurt.” Leah’s got her hands on her knees now as she tries to catch her breath, you kick the ball hitting her in the shoulder and watch as she falls back into the grass, it’s your turn to laugh now and laugh you do especially over the small “of balls.” She lets out before going down.
You don’t see the ball coming hitting you in the head and for a moment there’s a pause as Leah tries to assess if she’s just caused a concussion or if your ok but you let out a laugh and watch as her shoulders drop and she relaxes laughing too.
You both continue launching the ball at each other before Leah kicks it over your head and you shake your head turning to give her a playful smile before walking over to get it. You bend down to pick it up only to be pushed on to your back as Leah lets out a roar of a laugh, and you can’t possibly help but join her “oye get off me you shithead.” Only leah doesn’t move, she doesn’t stop laughing even as she leans down to kiss you.
You don’t realise the time until you break apart and look up to see the stars instead of clouds. “ I think it’s time we head.” Leah nods softly pulling you up before wrapping her self around you and kissing you softly again. She doesn’t talk, she doesn’t need to you got everything from that kiss alone.
Yet she still thanks you later that night in the darkness of your hotel room, she holds your hand softly bring your palm to her lips whispering a gentle thank you. “That’s the most fun I’ve had kicking a ball in so long.” You smile softly at her “I’ll gladly help you fall back in love with football anytime.”
Summary: Of all the people Leah thought she’d be jealous of, one of them was most certainly not the goddamn dog.
Leah wasn’t a jealous person. Honest to god she wasn’t. She doesn’t care who your friends with or what you do when she’s not around. There had been several times, in fact, where you’d innocently flirted with someone right in front of her, to get free drinks at all exclusive restaurant and she hadn’t even batted an eye. She doesn’t get possessive either and she most certainly doesn’t stop you from doing whatever the hell you please. She doesn’t even mind when someone gets a little too close for comfort, because at the end of the day, it was her you went home with. Her you kissed.
But this moment, right now, was as close a she’s ever come to feeling either of those emotions. And no. It wasn’t because you were flirting and making eyes at someone, purposely trying to rile her up and make her jealous. In fact, she’s certain you’re not even aware you were doing it and that makes the whole thing ten times worse.
His name was Bruce. Bruce was handsome. Brown hair and gorgeous blue eyes, seemingly enraptured by your own. Not an ounce of attention was being sent her way and the worst part? Bruce wasn’t even human. Bruce was a goddamn dog. A goddamn dog you were looking after for your friend whilst they were away on holiday. You’d barely known him a day and you were all over him!
She’d been home for an hour, and you’d barely looked her way let alone asked her how her day was like you typically tended to do. You were too busy fussing over Bruce who had taken residence in your lap way before she’d even gotten home.
“Who’s a good boy? It’s you isn’t it? Yes you are! You’re the goodest boy ever! Oh I love you so much!”
Leah’s jaw clenches as she watches you lean forward and kiss the dogs face. Several times in fact of which Bruce was quick to return. When your hands come up to ruffle his ears earning a happy grunt, Leah’s resolve snaps. She, as gently as she could physically find it within herself to do so, pushes the goddamn dog off of your lap before situating herself in his place.
Your eyebrows raise in mild surprise as your hands rise to rest on each of her hips. "Can I help you?" You question, your voice tinged with amusement.
Leah huffs as she wriggles herself as close to you as physically possible. "Yes. It's my turn." She demands.
You laugh softly as your hands slip beneath her shirt, resting on the warm, smooth skin of her back. "Your turn?"
"Yes!" Leah grunts, shooting a harsh glare to the dog who was currently chasing its own tail, seemingly unbothered by the chaos he’d caused, When she looks back at you, that same annoying grin was still on your face. "Stop smiling like that." She slaps her hand over your mouth.
You immediately lick it, earning yourself a groan of disgust as she wipes her now wet hand off on your shirt. "I'm sorry darling. I didn't realise it was your turn for some attention." You tease, Leah huffing as she attempts to climb off of your lap. If all you were going to do is wind her up, then she definitely didn’t want your attention anymore.
"Oh, no no." You muse, tightening your arms around her waist holding her front flush to your own. "You want my attention, so my attention you shall get. You want ear scratches first? Or belly scratches?” Your hands threaten to dart to her stomach.
Leah yelps as she bats your hands away before they could reach their destination.
"No?" You question as return your hands to their previous positions, eyes glimmering with mirth. "You want butt pats instead?”
Leah’s cheeks tinge red in embarrassment, and you can’t help chuckle softly as she covers her face with her hands . “No! Stop making fun of me!” She whines, voice muffled.
“I wasn’t,” you feign innocence, gently pulling her hands away from her face. Leah’s cheeks were still tinged red, her bottom lip forming a small pout. “You said it was your turn. I was only giving you what you wanted.” You remind her, the blonde huffing again as she pulls hands out of your grasp and crosses her arms against her chest.
“That’s not what I meant and you know it.” She grumbles.
“Oh come on,” you murmur. “don’t be such a spoilsport pumpkin.” You circle your arms back around her waist and pull her into a hug, Leah remaining stubbornly rigid in your arms. You slip your hands back beneath her shirt and let out a soft sigh, internally amused at her little show for you knew should this situation be reversed, the teasing you’d receive would surely go on for days. Apparently miss sulky pants couldn’t take it as well as she dishes it out.
You let go of her waist, bringing your hands up to cup her cheeks. “Smileee.” You coo, trailing the pads of your thumbs against the skin beneath her lower lip. Leah continues to glare, and you stare right back at her for a moment before leaning forward slightly and placing a gentle peck to her nose. Leah’s eyes narrow, and so you do it again, this time to the skin just heath her eye. This time, Leah’s lower lip twitches, and you knew you nearly had her. You lean forward again and kiss her left cheek. Then her right. Then her forehead. Cheek. Nose. Chin. You’re fully prepared to go in for an eyelid kiss when Leah finally cracks and pushes you away from her with a soft laugh.
“There she is.” you smile, the blonde huffing quietly as she finally allows her arms to settle around your shoulders.
“You suck.” She grumbles, toying with the hair on the back of your neck.
You rests your hands against the bare skin of her sides, thumbs grazing just beneath her ribcage. Leah shivers a little in response, but otherwise leaves you to it. “And you’re jealous of a dog.” You muse.
Leah drops her arms with a scowl. “No I wasn’t!”
“Oh you so were,” you tug her closer, hands sliding down her body to rest on the small of her back. They playfully snap the waistband of her sweatpants earning yourself soft gasp of surprise. “Oh miss Williamson,” you muse. “What am I to do with you?”
Leah’s hands instinctively rests against your chest to help keep herself supported. “Shut up about the goddamn dog and kiss me?” Her voice was close to demanding, and you can’t help but laugh.
“Now now, is that how you ask nicely?”
Leah groans as she throws her head back. She would have your ass for this. She swears it.
“Please.”
You tilt your head to the side. “Please…what?”
“I’m going to kill you.” she threatens, and you grin as you bring your hands up to cup her face, smoothing out her frown lines with your thumb. Leah exhales heavily as she leans into touch. Her forehead comes to rest against yours, and your smile softens at the way she gently nudges her nose against your own. You could feel the tickle of her breath as she speaks.
The quiet please, kiss me murmured against lips was just loud enough for you to hear, but it was all it takes for you to finally press your lips against hers.
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