Between Two Suns
Summary: A timid good girl meets her match when a brutish gentleman interrupts the day she had planned. A succinct meeting with a crypto mogul leaves her to swoon. Which side will she pick?
Slow Burn | Duo with Obi-Wan | Modern AU | On Hiatus | B&H
Prologue | Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 | Chapter 4 | Chapter 5 | Chapter 6 | Chapter 7
Argyle - Stranger Things
Valentine's Week Headcanons
Summary: Headcanons of Eddie and Argyle being besties and meeting you
Headcanons | Duo with Eddie | 21+ Topics - MINORS DNI | Crackship | Completed | B
Part I
Din Djarin - The Mandalorian
No Space Between
Summary: When the generator goes out on the Razor Crest, you and the Mandalorian find yourself spending the night in the cockpit, desperate for warmth
One Shot | Smut - MINORS DNI | Inexperienced Mando Angst | Completed | B&H
Part I
Eddie Munson
Valentine's Week Headcanons
Summary: Headcanons of Eddie and Argyle being besties and meeting you
Headcanons | Duo with Argyle | 21+ Topics - MINORS DNI | Crackship | Completed | B
Part I
Erik Lehnsherr - Magneto
A Night In
Summary: Deciding to stay home instead of accompanying your housemates to a night at the club, Erik finds you in a rather suggestive situation
One Shot | Smut - MINORS DNI | Friends to Lovers | Completed | H
Part I
Jack Abbot
Omne Trium Perfectum
Summary: When a work conference takes you to the local bar, you decide a night with two very charming doctors doesn't sound so bad. Afterall, everything that comes in threes is perfect.
One Shot | Smut - MINORS DNI | Duo with Michael “Robby” Robinavitch | Coming Soon | B
Teaser | Part I
James "Bucky" Barnes - The Winter Solider
A Timeless Valentine Evening
Summary: You accompany Bucky on a Valentine's day date
One Shot | Established Relationship | Completed | B&H
Part I
Joel Miller
No Trespassing
Summary: When a break in leaves you vulnerable a familiar stranger takes you in
Mini Series | Smut - MINORS DNI | DBF!No Outbreak AU | In Progress | B
Part I | Part II | Part III
Midwestern Hospitality
Summary: When a melting college dad knocks on your door looking to get buzzed into the apartment, you use the time before his daughter gets in to show him some Midwestern Hospitality.
One Shot | Smut - MINORS DNI | No Outbreak AU | Completed? | B
Part I
Michael “Robby” Robinavitch
Omne Trium Perfectum
Summary: When a work conference takes you to the local bar, you decide a night with two very charming doctors doesn't sound so bad. Afterall, everything that comes in threes is perfect.
One Shot | Smut - MINORS DNI | Duo with Jack Abbot | Coming Soon | B
Teaser | Part I
Obi-Wan Kenobi
Between Two Suns
Summary: A timid good girl meets her match when a brutish gentleman interrupts the day she had planned. A succinct meeting with a crypto mogul leaves her to swoon. Which side will she pick?
Slow Burn | Duo with Anakin | Modern AU | On Hiatus | B&H
Prologue | Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 | Chapter 4 | Chapter 5 | Chapter 6 | Chapter 7
Robert “Bob” Reynolds - Sentry
A Win Every Time
Summary: A new work friend at the Watchtower asks you out for a carnival themed valentine date
One Shot | Coworker to Lovers | Completed | H
Part I
Steven Grant - Mr. Knight
Love Bug
Summary: Two work friends decide to collaborate on Valentine themed crafts, leading to something more
One Shot | Coworker to Lovers | Completed | B
Part I
Summary: When a work conference takes you to the local bar, you decide a night with two very charming doctors doesn't sound so bad. Afterall, everything that comes in threes is perfect.
Pairing: Michael “Robby” Robinavitch x AFAB!Reader x Jack Abbot
Warnings: Minors please do not interact, 18+ content coming soon
Artist/Author: Barnes
Artist/Author Notes: I want to keep posting art, lmk if you guys like it! I desperately wanted to be the meat in their man sandwich so in the wee hours the morning concocted an idea for this image/ upcoming fic. Stay Tuned. ~ Barnes 🚬🗿
Story Description: As a timid good girl you meet your match when a broody gentleman interrupts the day you had planned. A succinct meeting with a crypto mogul leaves you to swoon. Which side will you pick?
Chapter Summary: After settling into the role Anakin bestowed upon you, you find yourself struggling to keep up. To blow off some steam, you spend a night with Obi-Wan in the Outlander Club.
Pairing: Obi-Wan Kenobi x F!Reader x Anakin Skywalker
Author Note: Hey y’all in this chapter we talk about Blackjack, I have never played that game before but like pretend that what I wrote is correct about the game. Thanks :3 ~ Howlett 🌙
After a long night of training, the end of day finally rolled around. Despite you only having been with Anakin and Obi-Wan during non-work hours, you were surprised to see how formal and knowledgeable they are. The whole night felt like a huge info dump, luckily, Obi-Wan printed you up a handbook that would review the whole night.
“Well that about sums up the job and general duties.” Anakin states. “Do you have any questions at this moment?”
You thought about it for a second, a few was an understatement. But, you’d rather deal with these questions tomorrow when you actually worked on the desk.
“Nope! None at the moment.” You reply.
Obi-Wan erupts in laughter. “Smart girl you are!” He brings you in for a side hug. “See! I told you it would be a good idea to hire her.”
Anakin rolls his eyes. “I suppose if you don’t have any questions, we could end it here.” He checks his watch. “Nice, we finished forty minutes ahead of schedule.”
While you enjoyed spending time with the two of them, you desperately wanted to go home and just veg out for the rest of the night.
“Sounds great! I think I’ll just grab my things and be heading out.”
“Feel free to leave whenever you’d like, I’m just going to stay behind and work on a few things.” Anakin then sits at his desk and begins typing away on his datapad.
“Do you have a ride home?” Obi-Wan asks, Anakin in return appears annoyed, giving him a side eye.
“I do not, but I think I’ll just take the hover-train.” Replying, you throw on your coat and backpack.
“Would you like a lift?” Obi-Wan questions, offering you a hand.
“I’d like that very much.” Replying, you take his hand as he leads you out of the office.
The elevator ride went down further than the lobby, Obi-Wan instead types a passcode into the button panel that brings you to the under-layer parking garage.
“Woah, didn't realize this building had one of these.” You gawk at the vast lot filled with hover-crafts. An animal bleats in the distance, they had parking here too.
“Yeah, it's pretty convenient as long as no one parks in my COO spot.” He jokes as he leads you to a spot very close to the elevators.
You noted that Obi-Wan kept his car covered by a forcefield equivalent of a tarp with a much shittier car on it while in the garage. The COO spot had a golden plaque with his name on it. You hadn’t seen one like that for the CEO, you presume Obi-Wan got it especially made for his spot. He clicks a button on his keys, turning off the disguise. He unlocks the doors and they open for you automatically.
The exterior was sleek, most obviously it was red, like bright carnelian red. Not one for hard edges, Obi-Wan's interior was similarly globular. His seats were some sort of leather with a pattern you couldn't recognize. They were nice to sit in. Especially after a day without proper back support. You sink into the seat and let out a yelp as the seat suddenly becomes very cold.
Obi-Wan chuckles and flicks off a switch. “Sorry there, cooled seats.”
“It's fine, just caught me off guard.” You buckle and settle in as he navigates his way out of the parking garage.
“I’m just outside the Port District. I’ll type in my address into the GPS.” You state.
Without another beat, he drives off going a moderate speed, which is something you appreciated.
“How was your day darling?” Obi-Wan asks, gripping the gear shift between the two of you.
“Not bad I guess. Just exhausting.” You flash back to earlier in the day, specifically when Casey threw you shade. “And one of my ex-colleagues from Professor Jin’s internship kind of hates me.” Awkwardly, you force out a fake laugh.
“Hates you? For what? Who in this parsec would dislike you?” He gives you a quizzical look.
“Well, we never met eye-to-eye.” You mutter to yourself. “I guess because she's always on her knees…”
Obi-Wan snickers. “Do you suppose she's jealous?” He asks, his hand falling to the side of the shift to relax, grazing the flesh of your thigh.
You make note of his slight touch, feeling daring, you move your leg ever so slightly towards him. Indicating you wanted more. Instinctively, he moves his hand to gently rest on you. Staring out the window, you reply.
“Maybe. We were competing for a permanent position on the professor’s team.” You sigh. “I guess she won on that bit.”
“Ah.” He hums. “I see, but at least you ended up in bigger, better places, eh?” His hand tenses on your leg at the word bigger.
You blush, gently placing your hand atop his, halting his movements. He once again relaxes. In word’s absence he flicks on a radio, static for a second until jizz music fills the cab of the car. It was entirely too loud, so he turns the nobs down quickly and mumbles an apology.
Time seemed to pass as in your exhausted state found your forehead leaning against the cold glass of the window. Obi-Wan found your light snores endearing as you drooled on his expensive interior. He waited a few moments after pulling up to your apartment, before gently shaking you awake.
“Hey, wakey wakey.”
Your eyes shoot open and you apologize to Obi-Wan for falling asleep. He hit the switch for your door to open.
“It's alright, it was a long day for you it seems.” He hands you your bag as you exit the vehicle.
Once again in your apartment, you let your bag fall to the ground and kick your shoes off in the entrance. Walking past the kitchen, living room, and bathroom, you head straight into your bedroom. Stumbling and tripping over Miles who dove at your feet from under the bed.
You let out a yelp as your shin meets the corner post of your bed frame. “Ou fuck, ahhh. Miles!” You hiss, rubbing the sharp pain in your shin away.
Knowing that the ache will last for another few minutes, you decide to get ready for bed. Changing into your pajamas, brushing your teeth, and anything else you could manage to do. Eventually, you found yourself laying on your bed, mindlessly scrolling through some streaming service. Before you could pick anything to watch, you fall asleep.
The days that followed had been hectic. Who knew that working and attending grad-school both full-time would be nearly impossible. Each day had started early in the morning and ended in the last few hours of the night.
Assignments had started piling up, each getting more difficult to complete. You had fallen behind on most of your studies, you were debating on if you should drop a class or two. But, you remember the stain it would leave on your record, so you decide against it.
Yesterday, Anakin had asked you to stay a little later so you could help him with a project. He wanted you to whip up a presentation and script for a lecture he was supposed to hold during a conference next week. You both knew he could do it himself, but he found any excuse to bother you.
It was all just to spend a little time together. It was getting quite irritating, having Anakin ask you for some assistance on pretty much any task he had on his to-do list. On top of your work, inside and outside the office, you were fried by the end of the week.
Excited that it was the weekend, you remember that you needed to take the next two days to catch up on homework and studying. Heading out to your local library, you were happy to find a comfortable seat. Setting up your materials, you are just about to get started when your holo-phone rings.
Anakin was calling.
With a heavy sigh, you reluctantly answer.
“Hey Anakin.” The exhaustion in your voice was hard to ignore.
“Hey, are you going to be busy today? I sure hope not, you actually should cancel all your plans, I need you at the office A-S-A-P.” He states, it’s clear he is being driven through traffic.
“What?!” You ask flabbergasted, already stuffing your supplies back into your bag haphazardly.
“It’s very important!” The line goes dead, Anakin hangs up.
“Shit.” You yawn, stumbling out of the library, your coat just barely shrugged over your shoulders. You find your way to the hover-train station, getting on the next stop in the direction of the office.
You spend the ride, brain short circuiting on what could be so important that Anakin would ask you in so suddenly. Although it had been labeled as potential shift hours, you didn't think he’d call you at his convenience.
You run up to the building, security parting ways, giving you a nod as you make a bee-line towards the elevators to Anakin’s suite.
Your heart is pounding on the way up.
Had you made a mistake with the paperwork? Had you somehow lost millions of credits?
The air suddenly feels stuffy in the elevator, your body increasing in temperature as you feel sweat forming in inconvenient places. The elevator dings as it arrives at the correct floor, you step out and notice that Anakin's usually open doors are closed.
You feel a lump in your throat as you walk down the carpet to his office, it feels a mile long. When you finally get to his doors they open for you. Inside, Anakin sits at his desk with his head in his hands.
You make your way to him, a concerned tone to your voice. “Anakin? What’s wrong, what's the emergency?” You ask.
“Last night the whole system went down.” He explains. “We lost fourteen hours of work, it was bad.” He shakes his head, with a sigh.
“Oh no Anakin that sounds awful, what can be done?”
“Oh, the guys got it back up and running, recovered most of it.” He tsks, tilting his head to the side. “But all the employee photo files got erased in the process. We need your employee photo to be retaken A-S-A-P.”
Not believing him, with a deadpan expression you reply. “Are you serious? Surely that can not be the reason you sent me over here in such a hurry.”
“This is no joking matter, we need your photo for security reasons, of course.” Anakin was as serious as it gets.
Trying to remain calm, you respond. “You dragged me over here on a Saturday, forcing me to ride on the shit smelling hover-train for thirty minutes to take a picture?”
“Well when you put it like that, you make me feel like I’m the bad guy!” Defensive, he stands up and crosses his arms.
“Could this have not waited until Monday?” He made it so ridiculously hard not to blow up on him.
“Of course it could have, but I thought we better get it done sooner rather than later.” He smiles, as if nothing was wrong.
“Anakin, do you not understand how valuable my time is? You made me waste precious time to come here to take a dumb ass picture? Something that could have waited until Monday?!” Livid, you decided to unleash everything you’ve been bottling up this past week.
“I have taken enough of your shit. I thought this job would be life-changing, a step in the right direction! But I was wrong. I just became your personal ass-wiper and I am sick of it! I swear Anakin, if next week you make me do another mindless task, I will be quitting on the spot.”
“Come on, you don’t mean that. You need this job, you need me.” Stepping closer to you, his demeanor grows aggressive. “Remember that I was the one that made sure you got paid way more than I would ever offer to some dumb college student!"
He did have a point, the bills aren’t going to pay themselves. But you knew your worth and you did not need some stuck up man-child saying you needed him. “I never needed you, Anakin. Don’t expect me back in the office on Monday.”
Taking your leave, you could hear Anakin yelling. “You get back here! I’m not done with you!”
Hearing the commotion Obi-Wan peeks his head out of his office and sees you storming towards the elevator. He leaves in haste and catches up to you in the elevator, sticking his hand in between the doors as they are about to close.
“What’s up his ass?” Obi-Wan inquires, crossing his arms staring intently at the doors, mirroring your energy.
“Not now Obi-Wan.” You spit.
“No need to get the claws out.” He scoffs. “Alls I’m sayin’ is when I want to de-stress I usually like to bet the farm.” He smirks.
“Gambling? Do you really think I have the credits for that?” You ask incredulously.
“You don't have to worry about that when you're with me.” Obi-Wan stops you from getting off at the bottom floor and punches in his code. “I’m going to drop you off at home. Get ready, wear that number you had on the first night we danced. It was magnificent.”
You scoffed and rolled your eyes although his cheerful demeanour was enough to quell the sharpest top note of your anger leaving a simmering rage in your gut. “And then what? We go to some backwater gambling hut on the lower level of Coruscant?”
“Prescisey.” He grins.
“Obi-Wan, I just finished telling Anakin that he needed to value my time. I’m sorry but I really can not waste another minute doing anything that isn’t school work.”
You weren’t sure why but you could feel tears daring to fall from your glossy eyes. It could have been from the argument or even from the pressure of this week, could be a combination of both. Trying to hide your face, you realize there was no stopping the water works. Obi-Wan notices immediately.
“Woah, hey what’s going on?” Immediately, he puts his hands on your shoulders facing you, searching your features.
Feeling a lump in your throat, you knew if you spoke, it would make everything worse for you. Instead you just shake him off as the elevator reaches the ground, the doors whirring open. You clear your throat and wipe your tears.
Walking out the elevator, you speak. “Can you take me home?”
“Of course.”
The car ride was silent, the only noise to fill the empty space was the faint jizz music on the radio.
Being just a few blocks out from your place, Obi-Wan decides now is the time to strike up a conversation.
“So, what kind of school work do you have?”
Not knowing if you should info-dump all the assignments and readings you had lined up, you decided to give a short answer. “Well, I’m backed up from last week, so too many to say, really.”
Gazing out the window, you examine the buildings on the block. As more passed, they grew in familiarity, indicating how close your residence was.
Hesitating with his words, Obi-Wan asks a question that stuns you. “Maybe I could help you with some of that load? I’m sure your professor won’t know if someone else completed your work.”
Pondering, you lighten up. “That would be great actually. We could split the work. I could do the readings and maybe you could do some of my writing assignments? Would you really want to waste your weekend doing that?”
“If it means we could go gambling later, then yes. Absolutely.”
Pulling into the first available parking spot, he turns off the craft, running over to your side to open the door. Giving you a nod, you lead the way into your apartment. Before you open the door, you remember how disgustingly messy your place was.
Turning towards Obi-Wan you gave him a bashful look. “Please excuse the mess, I haven’t had any time to clean lately.”
Pushing open the door, you realized you underestimated the disorder.
Looking around there was a pile of unfolded laundry on the couch. Cluttering on most surfaces as you would go through your days like a whirlwind. You knew the sink in the kitchen was piled with dishes. An embarrassed flush takes over your face. You nudge Miles with your foot away from the door as Obi-Wan walks through the threshold of your apartment.
You lead him into the dining room, clearing a few pizza boxes off of it you set down your backpack on a chair. “Stay here, I'll be right back.”
You collect trash off of surfaces balancing them on top of the pizza box as you make your way to the kitchen garbage can. You collect the bag and take it out to your floor’s trash chute.
Conveniently located eleven feet down the hall. When you return you notice Obi-Wan had made himself comfy on the couch folding towels, and absolutely way too close to your hidden mound of underwear. You meant to put them away sometime, but you woke up in the pile at four in the morning, unable to finish the task.
You take the towel out of his hands. “Obi-Wan, you really don't have to, let’s just get started on the homework.” You say rubbing your tired eyes.
“No”
“Yes”
“No,”
“Yes.”
“N-”
“Shh, how do you expect to be able to work in these conditions?” He gives you a pointed look.
You look around, feeling the weight of your exhaustion heavy on your shoulders. The mess was horribly overwhelming, the work was horribly overwhelming, life was horribly overwhelming.
Obi-Wan stands in front of you, taking you by the forearms. He lowers his head to look at you. “You need rest first and foremost. No progress can be made if you kill youself over this.” He lets you know gently but firmly that this wasn't the hill to die on.
Even as your brain screamed at you to fight against his words. To just work until you pass out, to get it all done at once. The way your vision blurred in front of you, the sheer stress of it all made you woozy. You stumble forward a bit, He braces, keeping you on your feet.
“Woah, hey. You need to get into bed.”
Weakly you nod, draping your arms around his shoulder as you guide him towards your room. He uses one arm to swipe another discarded laundry pile off of your bed before, allowing you to lower yourself down.
Immediately you're out. Not caring if the bed was comfortable or if there was a sphere shaped lip balm digging into your rib from under the sheet. Not caring that your limbs might have been in uncomfortable positions.
As you slept soundly, Obi-Wan cleaned up around the house. Taking out the trash, washing dishes, and even feeding Miles. After folding the pile of laundry, he decided to attempt to put your linens and clothes away. With ease he was able to find where you stored your towels and extra bedsheets.
Cautiously, he entered your bedroom. Checking on you, he noticed you were out like a light. Making his way to your dresser, he found the slight snores you emitted cute.
Checking through your drawers and putting things away where he believed they should go, he made note of what he needed to tidy up in your quarters.
Putting dirty clothes in the hamper, washing makeup brushes, a light sweeping…
Reaching the end of the pile, he debated on whether or not he should try and find your underwear drawer. One side of him wanted to be helpful, but the other did not want to come off as creepy. Weighing his options, he decided to finish his task. Finding the drawer, he respectfully put away the clothing.
Watching his placement, he notices a few pairs that he particularly enjoyed. Making a mental note of the way the lace felt on his fingertips as he brushed it aside to make room for more. He completed his duty and walked off to find another thing that needed some TLC.
He clears the laundry from your side, tucking you into the comforter you had kicked to the foot of the bed. Standing over your sleeping form, Obi-Wan cracks a smile. He was eager to get your reaction to his hard work. He stifled a laugh when you made a horribly loud snore and decided it was probably best for you to get as much shut-eye as possible.
Quietly he walks out of your room to the dining area, laying out the contents of your book bag on the table. He grabs a pair of readers out of his jacket and looks through some of your papers, recognizing a few of the concepts from his time in school.
“Should be easy enough.” He mumbles to himself, pushing the glasses up the bridge of his nose.
The roar of his stomach interrupted his train of thought. He runs his hand down his face, putting his glasses away. Walking to the kitchen he opens the fridge.
“There’s got to be something in here.” He sighs, rummaging through your shelves.
Mainly wilted vegetables and leftovers. He opens your freezer and sees a bag of mystery meat and promptly closes it again.
He checks in on you one last time before leaving a glass of water and scribbled note on your bedside table that he would be back soon! Obi-Wan had noticed the local grocer only a block away so he decided to take a walk.
The journey wasn't long at all. When he neared the store he realized it was like no grocer he had been to before. The windows with sales were posted proudly behind metal bars. The sign buzzed outfront. Ryloth Family Market.
Inside a young twi'lek girl sat at a booth near the butcher, working on what appeared to be homework. Obi-Wan's nose was immediately hit with the scent of cooking meat.
Weaving through the aisles, he found a peculiar array of foods. Brands and ingredients he was not familiar with. To the best of his ability, he was able to pick out a few items to make a timeless Twi’lek dish. Blue flatbreads made of Ryloth corn, fresh produce.
He walks up to the deli counter and gets the attention of the older woman. She greets him and suggests a mild cheese that was on sale. Along with some spiced nuna meat to cook alongside it. Her accent was thick Ryl and she smiled kindly at him. After collecting the items he needed, he trekked the journey back to your complex.
Arriving back to your place, he lugged the groceries into your kitchen. While he was putting the food items away, Miles thought it would be a great idea to stick his head in one of the bags. The canned corn looked particularly tempting to him. Once he realized the bag was stuck on him, immediately he began to throw himself across the island. His stubby legs frantically scrambling, slipping off and hitting the floor with no grace.
All the groceries flew across the laminated countertop, most of them making an obnoxiously loud impact onto the ground. Struggling for dear life, eventually he flung the bag mostly off his body and ran to hide under some furniture. Distraught, Obi-Wan went to check if you heard the kerfuffle Miles had just made. To his dismay, you did. In fact, it had scared you awake, causing you to launch up out of bed.
“What was that?” You ask, walking out of the bedroom.
“Oh nothing. Just Miles getting into a bit of trouble is all.”
“Oh I hope he’s alright, what happened to the little guy?” Searching the apartment, you noticed how tidy it was.
The best it’s looked in months.
“Just excited for dinner is all.” Obi-Wan states, cleaning up the mess.
“Dinner?” Puzzled, you notice the array of plastic bags in your kitchen. “Did you go grocery shopping?”
“Guilty as charged!” Holding his hands up in defense, he chuckles.
Your eyes widen at him, a light embarrassed flush across your cheeks. “Obi-Wan, you didn't have to.”
“Aht aht.” He wags his finger. “I wanted to, I know things have been rough for you lately. Consider it a gift.”
“So we can go gambling later?” You say flatly, picking up the groceries that fell to the floor.
“Whaaat?” Obi-Wan scoffs sarcastically. “You don't think I did this out of the kindness of my heart?” He asks with his signature smirk.
You chuckle and lightly hit his arm as you put a package of meat on the counter. Your heart drops for a second when you see the ingredients he bought.
“Wow, spiced nuna. My mom used to buy this when I was a kid. Haven't had it in a long time.” You think aloud, a reverence in your eyes.
“Let’s hope I do it justice.” He chuckles, a slight nervousness about him.
The added pressure of a childhood meal makes the kitchen warm before the stove is even turned on. As Obi-Wan mills away in the kitchen. You take the time to admire his handiwork. Everything was spotless, it felt like a huge load had been lifted off your shoulders. Like the pressure that made your chest tight decreased tenfold. You take a deep breath and let out a sigh, allowing your body to lean down and stretch before rejoining Obi-Wan in the kitchen.
“You seriously did an impeccable job. I couldn't thank you enough.” You praise.
“Don’t thank me just yet, we still got homework to do.” He reminds you as he washes the produce in the sink.
“Here, let me help.” You say, attempting to nudge him away from the sink with your hip.
“Nonsense, I got it covered. Either sit and relax on the couch or bring some of those papers over here and talk me through them. I can cook while you work.” He nods, gesturing to the dining room table with your backpack contents neatly organized across it.
You sigh begrudgingly and drag your feet into the dining room. You really didn't want to work after that nap but you knew you had to. Sitting across from him chopping vegetables on the island you begin your work. Talking through all of the questions on the assignments with Obi-Wan. He helped where he could, a few of his own teachings outdated.
By the time the pan was sizzling with aromatics and spiced meat you had made it two-thirds of the way through your assignment. Normally, what would've taken you hours alone, took practically no time with Obi-Wan there to bounce ideas off of.
The smell of food, laughter filling the kitchen over the sizzle of the pan, it felt like home. The apartment you lived in for a few years now, only feeling like a proper home today. Even Miles curled up on the floor by your feet, remnants of his plastic bag cape still wrapping his body.
“Oh, buddy.” You coo, slipping the torn bits of the bag off of him.
You bunch it up and throw it to Obi-Wan who catches and disposes of it. Miles is undisturbed and goes back to his nap.
“Everything is just about ready.” Obi-Wan chimes in, satisfied with his cooking.
Pulling the food off the pan, you notice he was going to plate the contents with an uncooked flatbread.
“Wait a second, are you seriously not going to heat that up?” You put a hand on his arm to halt his actions.
“Are you supposed to?”
All you could do was stare at him as if he asked the simplest question on earth. He puts the pan back on the burner.
“Well if you don’t mind showing me how you would warm up such a thing.” He stated.
“Well, it’s quite simple really.” Walking around the countertop, you open a drawer to pull out a griddle like pan.
Grabbing the flatbreads, you turn on the adjacent burner and lay the bread flatly on the lukewarm iron. After a few minutes, you flip them with your hands. Obi-Wan watched intently, hand gripping his chin. Examining like there would be a test after this demonstration. After another couple of minutes, you then take them off the griddle.
“That’s about it.” You say, grabbing the pan of warm food.
“Well, that explains why my version never tastes quite right.” Shrugging his shoulder, he helps you plate the cuisine.
Taking the piping hot meal and some accompanying sauces to the small dining room table you had, he ran to the kitchen to retrieve a bottle of red wine and glasses.
You dressed your meal with the remnants of a salsa verde (green sauce) you kept on the fridge door and ate eagerly as Obi-Wan sat across from you.
You groan into the taco. “Oh, this tastes exactly how I remember it.”
“Good?” Obi-wan asks, his eyes glinting against the lowlighting in the room.
You nod fervently. With a smile he takes a bite of his own. Never having this dish before his eyebrows shot up in amusement.
"Heavens, that's quite good, isn’t it?”
You eat in silence for a few minutes before Obi-Wan clears his throat and puts his readers back on. Bringing your assignment to his attention. You giggle at the sight of them, hand covering your mouth. He looked quite cute.
“What? I need them to read.” He shoots you a glare with no weight behind it.
You just laugh more, into your food. “I think it’s…” You take a beat. “Charming.” You nod.
He smiles and shakes his head, turning his attention to the paper in his hands. His skin holds a slight pink tinge whenever your eyes linger on him for more than a few seconds. Finishing dinner in no time, you share a side of the table with Obi-Wan and continue on your course load.
The hours flew like nobody’s business. When you set the last page in your folder you thought you might start crying. Your eyes burn from looking at bleach-white paper for so long. The whole bottle of wine was gone by the time you zipped your backpack and discarded it on the now cleared couch.
“I guess all you needed was a little help from an ol’ pal.” Obi-Wan states, proud he was able to get you caught up on your school work.
It felt like a miracle, you never thought you could get all this work done in a timely manner.
“I can’t thank you enough Obi-Wan! You have no idea how much you saved me.” Feeling the effects of the alcohol, without thinking, you pull Obi-Wan into a two arm hug.
Of course, he hugs you back.
“Well, now you owe me a trip to OC!” Pulling you away, he starts to clean up the kitchen mess. “You go and get yourself dolled up, I’ll take care of the dishes.”
Not having an objection, you obliged. Taking your time to pick out the dress from last time, apply subtle makeup, and fix your hair. It didn’t take any longer than when Obi-Wan finished up what remained of the clutter. You walk out of your bedroom ready to take on the night.
“My, you look absolutely gorgeous.” He takes your hand and spins you around.
A low whistle leaving his lips as he does so.
“I suppose we shall take our leave.”
“The sooner the better.” You add, preparing to lock up your residence before spinning to face Obi-Wan.
“Wait, wait, we had a half a bottle of wine each, I don’t think we should be driving.”
“When has that ever stopped me?” He questions. “Besides, you have a handy little chauffeur in your pocket.“ Obi-Wan grabs your unlocked holo-phone from your hand.
You protest and attempt to snatch it back with no luck. He types a quick message to Soont.
Hey Soont, Important business @ the OC. Step on it. -Ob
He tosses your holo-phone back. “He should be here in no time.”
It isn’t more than 20 minutes when your holo-phone buzzes in your hand as a message from Soont pops up on the screen.
Here - Soont
You let Obi-Wan out of the door first, following closely behind him to lock up. Fun awaits. You make your way down the steps and to the Jummer with a pep in your step. Soont opens the door begrudgingly, ever the disapproving scowl on his face.
The trip was fast. You and Obi-Wan wasted no time taking down a bottle of Château Margüi during the drive. Probably not the best idea, but you needed to let loose tonight. Arriving at the Outlander Club, Soont opens the door for the both of you. Annoyed to see you two a giggling mess.
“Sir, we are here.” You could tell he wanted this night to be over already.
“I can see that Soont!” Obi-Wan exclaims, clumsy making his way out of the Jummer.
“Ohhh where are we?” You ask, astonished by the building.
Pale yellow and red lights hung around the entrance. You could already see the numerous beings inside. The sound of glitz music blares through the doorway, accompanied by chatter and laughter. A strong smell of alcohol tickles your nose, this was going to be one hell of a night.
“Outlander Club, my darling.” He takes your hand and begins to walk into the entryway. “I come here every so often. Usually when Anakin is PMSing.” He mutters out of the corner of his mouth.
“You know that’s horrendously insulting.” Playfully you slap his arm. “But you are right, Anakin was on one today.”
“Let’s not worry about him! We’re here to have a good time, no?” He practically shouts, as the music has taken over your eardrums.
Walking through the crowd of drunken bodies, you arrive at the designated gambling area. Obi-Wan is quick to stop at the first slot machine he sees. Pulling out his wallet, he grabbed two cards.
“This one is for you.” He hands you his company platinum credit card.
“What’s my limit?” Asking, you tuck the card away in your clutch.
“There is no limit!” Exclaiming, he attempts to swipe his cards in the slot machine’s pay-pad.
The game accepts the card and gives Obi-Wan the go ahead to pull the lever. He clicks a few buttons before nodding, you notice he has fifty credits bet on the game. Pulling the lever the tiles begin to spin, nine wheels clicking to a halt, each with a dinging noise coming from the machine. The machine gives an enthusiastic ring, indicating Obi-Wan had won twenty credits.
“See, I’m already winning.” He grins.
“I think that’s a net loss.” You snicker.
“Ugh, Anakin is rubbing off on you far too much.” He shakes his head, his eyes tracking a scantily clad waitress making her way through the crowd.
“Darling.” He stops the waitress by gently touching her wrist. “Two fuzzy Tauntauns, for the lady and I.” He shoots you a wink.
“Coming right up Sir.” She answers before taking a few other orders in the vicinity.
You take a seat at the machine directly next to him. Unsure of what to do, you look toward Obi-Wan for guidance.
“Ah, I shall teach you the way of the coin, young padawan.” Removing himself from his machine, he moves directly behind you.
“First you have to pay your dues.” Taking your hand in his, he moves it to swipe the silver card on the pay-pad.
The machine thought for a second, then the game lit up, indicating the payment went through. Fifty credits added. Flashed on the screen, accompanied by a seductive woman's voice.
“Now just take this big lever and give it a nice strong pull.” You do so with his hand still settled on yours.
The tiles begin to spin, as the Zabrak women dressed as a promiscuous pirate on the screen looked astonished by your actions. To your amazement, you had landed five treasure chests in a perfect row. The screen showcased an array of coins falling down, the words winner written over them. Somehow, you had won a thousand credits.
“Jackpot!” Obi-Wan cheers, shaking you roughly with both his hands on your shoulders. “And this is only your first spin! Keep it going!”
He ran off back to his machine as you gave it another go. Unfortunately, you did not win anything this turn. Even the women on the screen looked sad for you. Spinning the machine again, your server arrived with your drink.
Thanking her, you took a sip of the beverage. It was very strong, but it’s not a crime to get drunk on a Saturday night. Better to enjoy the moment and worry about consequences in the morning. The screen flashed another winning display, this time you won ten credits.
Deciding that you were up on the game you cash out, putting the voucher of your winnings into your clutch. Your lips and tongue began to tingle. You look toward Obi-Wan with a worried expression.
He notices immediately and quells your fears. “Bit alarming for your first one, isn’t it?”
“What is it?” You ask pressing your lips together.
“That would be the Fuzzy part of a Fuzzy Tauntaun.” He chuckles. “It’s a special flower, completely edible, that creates a lovely buzzing feeling.”
You nod, eyes already looking for the next activity. You spot a Blackjack table, a crowd of people around it. A game had just ended, a Wookie gingerly collecting his winning, a shit eating grin on his face.
“Ooh Blackjack’s open.” You grab Obi-Wan by the hand and pull him in that direction.
“Do you even know how to play Blackjack?” He asks, amused.
“Bet it all on black!” You cheer.
“That’s Roulette, dear.” He pats your hand before taking a seat at the table.
You stand by his side, slightly embarrassed. “Yeah, I think it’s best I sit this one out.”
“Suit yourself!”
He inquires with the dealer to purchase his chips. Fishing his wallet back out, he hands his card over. Mumbling ten thousand to the dealer. You are in awe with the ridiculous amount of money this man so willingly threw away. Carefully counting and showcasing the chips to the security camera, the dealer passes Obi-Wan a hefty amount of coins. More players start to fill the table, some dropping almost as much money as Obi-Wan had.
Shortly after, the dealer asks each player to place their bets. Obi-Wan slid over about two thousand credits worth of chips into the pile. One smug Neimoidian bet three thousand, flashing Obi-Wan a snobbish grin. He rolled his eyes in response, as the dealer began to deal out the cards.
The card on the table showed six of diamonds, next to it was a card faced down. What those cards meant was a mystery to you. You weren’t sure exactly how this game was played, but you thought Obi-Wan's hand looked fairly promising.
“Is this a good hand?” You whisper in his ear, examining the detail of his spread; A ten of hearts and three of diamonds.
He does not answer you, instead, he keeps a poker face and disregards your comment. Feeling embarrassed you decided to just stand there and not say another word until the game was up. The dealer then signaled to the player on his left.
The first player waved his hand palm down over his cards. The next player did the same. The third asked for another hit, once he saw his card, you could see his face washed white. The next player was the Neimoidian, glaring at Obi-Wan, he doubled down.
The next few players chose a split and a hit. Finally, once it was Obi-Wan’s turn, he decided to double down as well. The next card to appear in his hand was a nine of spades. After each player had their turn, the dealer then flipped the hole card.
It showed an ace of spades. Each player showed their hand. Upon seeing Obi-Wan’s perfect twenty-one, multiple players groaned at their defeat, including the Neimoidian. Obi-Wan had smiled brightly, as the dealer pushed the pile of chips towards him.
“You were right my dear! I was dealt a great hand.”
Obi-Wan decided to play for another round. Your feet began to hurt in your heels, so you leaned against him for support. With a new confidence from winning he presents his thigh and gives it a pat.
“Seat right here for you darling, watch the magic happen closely.” Not caring of the implications, your judgment less than hazy, you sit on his lap.
He instinctively steadies you by your waist, pulling you in when a figure to your right gets a little too close for comfort. Your eyes rake over the chips, impressed by the amount. Looking around the table you notice the Nemoidian still playing after busting.
He sneered at Obi-Wan who paid him no mind. Instead Obi-Wan found his attention given solely to the woman on his lap. The way your back pressed into his chest, how your hair brushed past his face, tickling his nose. He tucked those strands over your shoulder. The scent of your perfume caused him to almost ignore the dealer when time came to start the game again.
You couldn't help but glance toward the Nemoidian man, a jealous kind of rage brewing in his gaze. He kept up with Obi-Wan’s bets, making sure to one-up him every time. Ultimately leading to him losing six thousand easily. Obi-Wan on the other hand was on a winning streak.
“Unbelievable!” Obi-Wan cheers, collecting the last of his winnings. “You just might be my lucky charm.” He says in your ear.
You blush about to respond when the Nemoidian man stomps up to the two of you.
“Who does this kriffin’ guy think he is? Cheating, I'll bet! You assholes over at Force Coin always itching to take from the little guy!” The man shouts, slurring his words. “NEBULOUS COIN FOR LIFE!”
The dealer gestures for security to come towards his table. Two guards immediately come to escort the Nemoidian out.
“Are you kriffin’ kidding me? You’re escorting me out? You should make this guy leave! Always stealing from us common folk!”
Security hastily ushered this man to the door as he continued to scream obscenities.
“Obi-Wan, who was that?” Puzzled, you cower behind him, afraid of the man.
“Nobody really. He’s just jealous that the Force coin is successful and his coin isn’t. He’s always had it out for me and Anakin, despite us never engaging in his antics.” Explaining, you both walk away from the table, trying to find the next activity.
That’s when Obi-Wan receives a call. Pulling out his holo-phone you glance at the screen.
Anakin is calling.
“One moment dear, allow me to take this.” fuckfuckfuckfuckfuck. “Hello, Anakin.”
“OBI-WAN!”’ Anakin's voice came roaring over the holo-phone. “Why did I just get a notification that you spent over ten thousand credits on two of the company’s platinum cards?” He asks angrily.
“Krr, kchkt. I can’t chkkt hear you, Anakin.” Obi-Wan tries to hang up the holo-phone but misses the button.
“Obi-Wan, is that music?” Loudly a crowd cheers as an elderly twi’lek lady wins a jackpot, the machine ringing loudly near you. “Are you gambling with company funds?! This is absolutely unacceptable.” Anakin continues to yell through the holo-phone.
Unbeknownst to Obi-Wan, Anakin was still on the line. You walk up to him, noticing he appeared to be done with the call.
“What did he want?” You ask.
“It seems we’ve been caught.” He snickers, drunkenly giggling into his hand.
“Oh, shit.” You giggle along with him.
Bewildered Anakin screams down the line “Y/N!?”
You hear your name muffled and look toward the holo-phone in Obi-Wan’s hand.
“Did you hang up?” You ask.
Obi-Wan notices the call still going, the muffled rantings of Anakin hidden beneath loud music and voices.
“Krrt, chkcht.” Click. He hangs up with a shit eating grin on his face and tucks it into his pocket.
Nearly immediately you can feel your holo-phone buzzing rapidly in your bag. So much so, that you thought you were getting a call. Nope. It was Anankin, frantically texting you. Deciding to not let him ruin anymore of today, you put your holo-phone on silent without even glancing at his sorry excuses.
You and Obi-Wan share an eyeroll at Anakin and continue on your merry way. Back to the bar. The night ends as fuzzy as the several tauntauns you knock back without hesitation. A deathstick seller slips between you and Obi-Wan offering to sell you both some.
Obi-Wan waves him away. “Find a better line of work.” He scoffs.
You just giggle and watch the man leave. He smelled weird, like burnt plastic. Texting Soont for a pickup, you lounge against the bar, cashing out at a nearby pay station. Obi-Wan closely at your side as you vent about the week you had.
When your holo-phone buzzes shortly thereafter, you cling to Obi-Wan on the way out of the club. It took great mental effort to put one foot in front of the other, your lips still tingling. You giggled as you stumbled, steps feeling too easy, like your body could fold to the ground at any second.
Soont stood by the open Jummer door, awaiting your arrival. Obi-Wan hoisted you into a seat, your body falling clumsily against the leather.
“Thank you.” You sing, fighting with gravity to sit upwards and buckle in. Grabbing a bottle of water you slug it as Obi-Wan takes his seat next to you.
“For everything.” You continue.
Obi-Wan not understanding that that was one complete thought. “What?”
“Tonight, I had fun. More fun than in a while.”
“I had fun too! Especially when you won all those credits at the slot machine.” He drunkenly leans against you. “At least we won a lot! You know, credits are like amazing. But at the same time they are also like, bad.” Obi-Wan continues on a tangent, as you struggle to stay awake.
Checking your holo-phone, the time read just shy of five in the morning. Below the time, you read the messages Anakin had sent, trying to make sense of them.
2:43am - Hey
2:43am - Are you with Obi-Wan?
2:44am - It’s okay if you are, just wondering…
2:51am - I know you’re with him, why can’t you just answer me?
3:04am - Outlander Club? Why would you want to be at a place like that?
3:06am - ANSWER ME!
3:11am - i’m sorry
3:17am - WHAT MAKES YOU THINK SPENDING ALL THOSE COMPANY CREDITS IS A GOOD IDEA?! >:(
3:17am - YOU DON’T WORK AT THE FORCE ANYMORE
3:48am - I’m sorry I didn’t mean to go off like that please text me back
4:23am - I hope you have a great night! :)
Laughing at the messages, you show Obi-Wan. You knew he wasn’t able to read the words in front of him, but knowing Anakin was spamming you all night was enough to make him burst out in laughter. Upon arriving to your apartment, Soont helps you and Obi-Wan to the door. As soon as you both reached the stoop, he sped off, presumably to get some sleep. Clumsily, you unlock the complex door, Obi-Wan tailed behind you.
“You know I think it’s like way too late for you to drive home. And I’m pretty sure you’re way too drunk anyways.” You state, as you stagger up the stairs to your apartment.
Gripping the railing for dear life, you nearly fall backwards at the top step.
“Of course yes, I shall take the treacherous duty of spending the night!” He retorts, a gentle hand on your back to steady you.
As you both enter, you throw your jacket and purse onto a chair, sliding off your heels.
“Ohhh I wonder if I have any pizza.” Walking towards the fridge, Obi-Wan flops onto your couch.
Fishing through the unit you are saddened to see no pizza in sight.
“Obi-Wan, we should totally order a pizza right now. I think I still have that company card.” You state, walking back into the living space.
“As long as we get a stuffed crust!” He shouts, getting comfortable in your throw pillows.
“You know you don’t have to sleep on the couch, my bed is way more comfortable.” Twirling your hair, you giggle at your own comment.
“Is that so? I guess I should test that theory.” He waggles his eyebrow jokingly.
You beckon him to your room, having grabbed a pizza menu off of your fridge. He gladly follows behind you, bringing a few pillows with him. He throws them on your bed and kicks off his loafers. Sitting on the edge with a grunt, he sighs as he lays back.
“I’m gonna order pizza.” You say sitting on the opposite side of the bed. “Sausage good?”
Obi-Wan's eyes flutter shut as he relaxes into your comforter. “Can we get some of those little spicy peppers?” He asks his words thick like molasses.
You chuckle and nod to the room and begin dialing. You order and give the company card number over the holo-phone to pay for the pizza. Anakin was already upset, so who cares anyway, right?
Looking over at Obi-Wan you couldn't help but notice how his shirt stretches over the expanse of his chest. Buttons burdened by the position he was laying in.
“Hey, you need something to sleep in? A dress shirt and slacks hardly seem comfortable.” You offer.
He looks down at his body, feeling restricted by the fabric. He nods at you softly. You were already on the way to your wardrobe, grabbing out an oversized shirt with your university’s name on it. You also get him pink fuzzy pajama pants, with little bunnies on them. He sits up as you throw the clothes at him, immediately knocking him onto his back.
His voice came through the plush fabric muffled. “Thanks.”
Your doorbell rings. Hurriedly you make your way to the front door, shrieking. “Piizaaaaa!”
Ripping open the door, you give the delivery boy a tip, happily taking your pie. You return to your room with it hot against your palms. Your eyes widen, not looking away from the sight that greeted you. Obi-Wan stood there in your pj pants, his dress shirt freshly unbuttoned sagged against his back as he removed it for the t-shirt.
“Damn.” You whistle at him as you set the box on your bed.
He chuckled, pulling the baggy t-shirt over his head, plopping heavily on the bed. “Enjoy the show?”
You gently hit his shoulder as he settles in. Opening the box the intoxicating aroma of pizza wafted into the air. You rubbed your hands together.
“Oh, baby. It’s pizza time.” Eagerly you grab a slice, as does Obi-Wan.
By the time you were on your second piece, Obi-Wan had tucked his head into one of the pillows. A half eaten slice in his hand, cheese pooling out of one end of the discarded crust. You feel a similar pull of drowsiness, eating with your eyes closed. The feeling of gravity moving your body forward. The soft bed beneath you is enough to immediately welcome slumber before you had even noticed your eyes were closed.
Summary: When the generator goes out on the Razor Crest, you and the Mandalorian find yourself spending the night in the cockpit, desperate for warmth
Pairing: Din Djarin (The Mandalorian) x AFAB!Reader
Word Count: 4,860
Warnings: Minors please do not interact, 18+ content below | Pre-Grogu era, vulgar language, hand job, oral (male receiving), inexperienced Mando, angst
Authors: Barnes and Howlett
Author Notes: Hey guys, this is the last installment of our Valentine's day marathon. We really enjoyed expanding our masterlist and gaining new friends/followers through our writing. As always it's a pleasure writing for you ;) ~ Barnes 🚬🗿
A little over a few weeks ago the heater in my house broke! I was literally freezing in the sub zero temps. So obviously, I imagined this fic up to comfort myself. Barnes loved the idea and now here we are. (I'm delusional.) Thank you to everyone that stuck around this week, and for all the traction on the blog as of late. We really appreciate it!! Cheers everyone and Happy Valentine's Day :3 ~ Howlett 🌙
The frigid maw of Carlac was unforgiving this mission. The Razor Crest had taken quite the beating, you had no power for the last six hours. The astro-mech socket had a hole through it the size of an Ewok. Causing the cabin to hold a chill that made your joints ache.
“Dammit, power still won't turn on.” He hits his fist on one of the metal panels of the ship. “Stole an old generator, I have it stowed somewhere, but It’ll only give us enough energy to get the bay doors open and closed.” He shakes his head, sighing.
Defeated, he moves away. Pacing around, he attempts to formulate a plan. You watch as you try to bring any sort of warmth to your quivering body. Rubbing your hands together, you notice how dull they appeared. If you both didn’t get heat soon, you would end up with frostbite, or worse.
“Mando! I am freezing, I feel like my fingers are going to fall off!” You whine, readjusting the skimpy blanket around your shoulders.
“I’m working on it!” He shoots back, annoyed with the ship for failing and you for just sitting there, not helping. “Maybe if you got your sorry ass up, we could get this generator up again.”
He goes to the weapon store, trying to pry open the door. “Stand back.” He commands.
You oblige and sink further into the corner of the room. Fed up with life or death situations, he uses his last wrist rocket to damage the closing mechanism of the door. It sends sparks flying, you shield your face with the blanket and wince at the sudden brightness.
Mando rumages through a bottom storage cabinet and pulls out a half falling apart generator with frayed wires sticking up from it.
“Dammit!” He curses. “Bilge rats.” Mando lets the metal husk fall to the floor with a frustrated grunt.
“Maybe we can salvage it?” You say shuffling across the floor.
You bend and pick it up, examining the damage. The wires were definitely in need of mending, but otherwise all other components seemed to be connected fine, just falling out of the housing. You grab a tool bag from the same cabinet and begin snipping and stripping the wires as Mando watches you with a curious tilt about his helmet. He knew you were a technical person, being able to help him with just about any handiwork needed to be done on the ship. But, he was surprised you could make any sense of the machinery in front of you. Feeling a sense of hope, he kneels near you, examining the work.
“Any luck?”
You splice the last few wires together, and let out a victorious cheer. “That should do it.”
You stand up, dusting yourself off, getting some sort of feeling back in your fingers.
“We should be able to use this for a few minutes, what do you need the most right now?” You ask, thinking of how to make the most of your time.
Mando ponders, as he starts to make a mental list of the possible supplies you both need at this moment. An idea pops into his head.
“Why don’t we grab any cargo we need and station ourselves in the cockpit. It is the most insulated room and we could produce enough heat so your fingers don't fall off.” He mocks you.
Scoffing, you cross your arms over your chest. “You’re telling me you aren’t cold?”
“I’m cold, but I’m not being a baby about it.” He stands with a grunt.
“I’m not a-” You begin to argue.
Ignoring you, he takes the generator to the outside of the ship and connects it to the power supply.
“Get ready!” He shouts, his voice ringing through the nearing frigid levels of cold in the cargo space.
You're already climbing the ladder to the upper storage room when the ship hisses and pops to life. The door opens for you and you begin to frantically toss emergency supplies and bedding items in the direction of the cockpit. Making sure to grab rations, Maker forbid you're trapped for days.
Down stairs Mando collects other items he deemed necessary for survival. He restocks his weapons and begins to bring everything he collected up the ladder to the cock pit. You join him in packing everything you need. Quickly he makes his way back outside. You wedge the doors open just slightly, leaving room for you or Mando to slip out if needed. Mando kills the power outside and brings the generator back in.
“There’s still some juice in this. We can get more when the weather lets up.” He expresses, putting it down with a thunk outside the cockpit doors.
Looking over the inventory the two of you compiled, you began to organize the area. Mando eventually slipped himself inside the cockpit, he helped sort out the space. Once you had everything in a tidy order, on the floor you set up a makeshift bed. Using a rolling pad, a small blanket, and a few dingy pillows, it was comfortable enough for you to sleep in. You settle into the bed, realizing this was going to be a long night. If your back wasn’t hurting now, it was definitely not going to feel any good in the morning.
“Feeling any better?” Mando asks, throwing you off guard.
He wasn’t one to check up on you regularly, but it was always a pleasant surprise when he did.
“A little. This bed sucks.” You joke, trying to make light of your current sleeping situation. “Where are you going to sleep?” Asking, you survey the room, realizing you took the last of the sleeping supplies.
“Right here.” He replied, sitting in the captain's seat.
The doors are open slightly, a swift breeze blowing in from the sizable bend in the connecting door as well as the hole torn into the socket above. The wind whistled and roared outside. It sounded like a wounded beast. It gave you goosebumps as if you weren't already afflicted by chills. Carlac was well below freezing at night, once the sun goes away it's ridiculously cold and because of that gap in the door it made conditions less than ideal and certainly far from toasty.
Feeling the draft as well, Mando swipes a few pillows from you and stuffs them in the door. It only fills in a little more than half of the gap. He makes a Give me motion with his hand and points at the backpack of rations. You toss him the bag and he stuffs that in as well, filling it nearly completely.
“That's as good as it's gonna get.” Mando nods, before resuming his seated position.
You shiver under the blanket. It felt as if heat just wouldn't stay in your body. You tried to get under the blanket fully and use your breath to warm up the space to no avail. When you stuck your face back out the covers you winced at the cold bite that hit your skin. A particularly strong gust of wind spilling slightly into the cab. Mando unmoving in the chair shudders involuntarily. You can see your breath in front of you when you speak.
“Mando. I can’t keep warm.” Your voice was muffled by the blanket but the sound of your teeth chattering was unmistakable.
“Well what do you want me to do about it?” He asks, almost a little too harsh.
You thought about it for a second, what could he do? It’s not like he could magically turn on the power again. All you really wanted was any bit of heat, was that so much to ask for? Battling with yourself for a second, you thought about asking him to accompany you. Normally you would never dare to request such a thing, but this was not any normal circumstance.
“Mando?” You ask softly, he turns his head towards you, humming in response. “Can you maybe just lay next to me?”
He wasn’t sure if he heard you right, he stilled in his seat. “Come again?”
“Um- I’m just really cold and maybe we could get some warmth if we huddle together.” Biting your lip, you almost regret the words you said.
Taking a moment, he gets up from his chair. “Move over.”
He demands, and you quickly do so. Settling himself next to you, he lays flat on his back, hands resting on his chest. You attempt to get close, while not trying to make him uncomfortable.
“Are you going to share that blanket?” He asks with a monotone voice.
You drape it over his chest plate. It gave off a cooling aura that made your hand retreat quickly. You begin to notice the cooling effect is radiating from him on all sides.
“Mando.” You hiss. “Your armor is so cold.” You shove your body closer into the corner. You can feel whatever heat you had left in your body leeching out and into the Beskar. At this point your body starts to uncontrollably shake, your stomach convulsing and cramping with every destroying shiver.
He practically rolls across the floor away from you, taking the blanket with him, frosted to his chest plate. He tears it away and puts it back over you. Night had fallen unforgivingly, the room in pitch black. Tears begin to form in your eyes, you thought they might freeze in these conditions.
“Help, please.” You manage through gritted teeth, frantically rubbing your extremities together.
There was a long pause in the room. “Close your eyes.”
In the event that there was some sort of light leaking into the room he still took precautions. You screw your eyes shut and huddle into a ball. The sound of his helmet being put on the floor was what you heard first before the sound of the rest of his armor falling.
His body slides in next to you. Instinctively you cling to him, curling into his chest. His skin erupts in goosebumps at the sudden temperature change. Leaving no gap between the two of you, finally, you feel a sense of warmth. As you shivered, he still laid flat. You make note of this and inquire with him about it.
“Are you comfortable?” You question through chattered teeth.
“A little.” Responding, he shifts slightly, trying to remove himself from you.
The sudden coldness he felt from you was a bit much. He didn’t want to give the wrong impression but you felt just like a block of ice. Hearing him speak, you notice how different his voice sounded without the helmet. It was pleasant, deeper than what you're familiar with.
“What can I do to make it better?” You ask softly.
“It would be better if you warmed up.” He admits, letting out a heavy sigh.
Annoyed you scoff. “I’m not getting any toastier with you laying like that. Here, I’ll just-” You turn your body to face away from him.
He hesitated for a second, his muscles taught. With a shaky breath he presses the front of his body against you. Wincing at the cold on his back, feeling the chill in the room.
“Is this okay?” He asks, warm breath fanning over your cheek. His hands stall at your side, carefully draping over you. Immediate relief. The heat radiating from his core. His skin was hot, the armor must've kept him insulated because he felt like firelight.
“This is perfect.” You reply, with him shielding you from the door.
“Good.” He hums.
You can tell something is still not quite right. His touch felt distant, unsure. It was hard to tell what the source of this discomfort was. Maybe it was just the cold getting to him. You try to not let it bother you as you attempt to catch some shut-eye.
Feeling you against him, he was intimidated. He had never been this exposed around someone. Since he took the oath of the Mandalorian way, he never removed his armor. Yet here he was, suit off, you cuddled next to him, preparing for sleep. It was terrifying, he was usually most comfortable with his Beskar on. Sleeping in the most unlikely spaces and positions, always prepared if someone would jump at him. Somehow, you of all people got him to be the most vulnerable he has ever been.
It was unclear exactly what he was feeling right now. It was a mix of turmoil from the sudden exposure, but he also felt a tinge of tranquility. Sure it was colder than absolute zero, but knowing he brought you some sort of comfort was all he needed to feel okay in this moment.
You slept for maybe twenty minutes before you awoke to a poking sensation on your back. It was an object large enough for you to notice. You thought maybe Mando had been tinkering with his wrist guard and let it fall between the two of you.
In a sleepy daze you inquire. “Mando?”
He grunts in response, before you feel his entire body grow rigid. So still you would've thought he spotted an enemy combatant.
Now alert, at his sudden frozen demeanor you shoot your eyes open and look around towards the window frantically, back still facing him. “What?! What is it?!”
“I- this doesnt- I didnt mean to- Maker.” He groans, running his hand down his face.
“Wha-” The realization washes over you and you feel your stomach flutter. “Oh-”
Laying back down, your first thought is to pull away. But you cannot, the cold would send you back into a frigid state, threatening your life. So you stilled yourself, trying not to move even a sliver.
“Um- I’m really sorry, I would give you some space but I finally feel warm.”
He doesn’t say or do anything, not sure of what his next move should be. You try to comfort him as an attempt to fill the silence.
“Listen, it’s completely normal… I know sometimes this happens when people who have a penis fall asleep… it’s really nothing to be ashamed of!”
He could feel all the color wash from his face, he had never been so embarrassed. Despite being known to be quick witted and an expert of thinking on his feet, for the first time, he had no idea where to go from here.
“If you want, you can like, go and take care of that.” Thinking, you really didn’t want him to leave, he was your personal heater. “Just try to hurry if you do.”
He lets out an uncomfortable grunt and sighs, still not daring to speak out of mortification. You were no stranger to the male appendage. Had a taste of many across the galaxy, in fact. Never once did you think you would find yourself in such a predicament with a Mandalorian of all people. He had been short and rather verbally unkind throughout your voyage, opting to treat you as a part of the ship rather than a traveling companion. You might even die here, cold and uncared for.
“Or…” you pose an option. “I could help you out?”
He lets out a weak and strangled groan at your question.
“I don’t, I don’t do that.” He answers gruffly.
Maybe it was the fact that you were finally warm and feeling better, or the fact that you were faced with mortality but it sent a surge of confidence through your body.
“Do, what? Never been with a woman before Mando?” You tease. “A bachelor out in the galaxy and never sampled any of the goods? That's a real shame.” You coo.
“Excuse me?” He takes major offense. “What makes you think I haven’t sampled any goods?” He retorts, mocking you.
“Prove it then.” You snap back.
Sighing, he tries to defend himself. “We are colleagues. I hired you specifically to maintain this ship and accompany me with my bounties. The only reason I’m even in this position is because you’re the one who can fix the generator. If you freeze to death I’ll be stranded here!”
Ouch, you thought. He could not have said that any more bluntly.
“Is that really all my life means to you? A suppliment on your ship that doesn't even fucking work?” Starting to move away, you can feel his hand grip your wrist.
“Wait, I'm sorry. I didn’t mean to-”
You pull his hand away, sitting straight up. “Please don’t with the apology.”
Sighing, you can feel the harsh winds blow in from the door. You really did not want to leave, but Mando was always one to make things harder than they have to be.
“I really am sorry.” He states, shifting himself.
Softly, he continues. “Did you really want to help me?”
“Are you serious? After that?” You scoff.
He stays silent for a moment. You move closer to the door, losing vital warmth by the second. The wind had thankfully let up, unfortunately leaving the room so silent you could hear how his mouth hesitated to form words.
He lets out a heavy sigh before his voice breaks the silence. “Please, at least just sit under the blanket. I need you to hear me out.”
You oblige begrudgingly, realizing it would be stupid to lose your life to the cold over this argument, and there was a chance the most emotionally constipated man you'd ever met was about to be vulnerable.
“Your life means more to me than just a component of my ship.” He admits a slight falter in his voice.
“But you-”
“Let me speak.” His tone was firm but not laced with his usual frustration.
You stay silent, back propped up against a control panel. He joins you shoulder to shoulder and drapes the blanket around the two of you.
“I'm not used to having someone here. Sharing the ship with me. Filling in spaces I couldn't.” He clears his throat. “This ship would have a damn hard time running without you, not just because you fix things either.”
You sat with your eyes closed, focusing on his voice. Feeling heavy with his introspection. His praises bloom in the pit of your stomach. The skin at your shoulder that met his felt electric.
“And as far as what just happened goes.” His fingers grip the bedroll below. “You know I took an oath. Later in life I vowed to only allow myself sex if it meant furthering the Mandalore bloodline.”
A heavy sigh leaves his lips, it almost pained him to say those words out loud. He takes a moment before he continues. “I didn’t mean all those things I said. Lately, I’ve just been confused.”
“Confused about what?” You ask, bringing a reassuring hand to his shoulder.
“About whether or not these morals work for me.”
Hearing those words, you take a moment to try and process the situation. It was shocking that he for one is sharing his feelings with you, and even more surprising that he’s doubting his own beliefs. He’s always proud of who he is and what he believes in, seeing him like this, it’s disarming.
On the other hand, his voice is captivating. Maker, hearing it without the modulator, it sounded so genuine. For the first time, you could hear the emotions in it. The deep, smooth, rich, sound, sent shivers up your spine.
The uninhibited flow of his breathing is audible, this isn’t something you typically hear, it humanizes him. Realizing he was more than just the Beskar he wore and the unkind words he said. You can feel the gentle flexing of his biceps, every time he speaks he tugs on the mattress below. When your arm gently brushes him, goosebumps erupt across his skin.
He continues. “I shouldn't have raised my voice with you. Shouldn’t have been so mean.”
You can feel him turn towards you in the dark, his eyes boreing holes into you. Not even sure he had eyes or how many eyes, but you could feel his stare. He takes your hand in his, it was big, warm. Gentle.
“I just don't know how to feel.” He explains.
“About your beliefs?” You question.
“About you.” His grip on your hand tightens for a second before dropping it. “It’s so hard to control myself everyday. Five hundred forty seven days, thirteen parsecs. I've saved you from countless combatants, you've saved my skin too many times to count. And it made me so mad that I have these feelings. Thought it would be better to be cold, distant. I’m sorry.” He apologizes.
Your chest feels tight, a flutter deep in your stomach. Suddenly you miss the warmth of his palm. You can't blame him for the feelings he developed. You had wondered what was under that armor the second you met him. There were nights, after particularly nasty battles where he was so strong. You saw how effortlessly he handled business and it would be a lie to say you didn't feel similarly. Which is why it was so jarring how snippy he was with you.
“Mando.” You breath out shakily.
He tensed as if bracing for impact. Bracing for a complete shut down or even a backhand. Instead he was met with a gentle hand resting on his leg. Instantly, he gasps, growing tense under your touch.
“Please, don’t make this harder than this has to be.” He whimpers through gritted teeth.
Softly, you slowly stroke up and down his thigh. “Mando, I know you’re having a tough time with your identity… but I think you should allow yourself some fun.” Whispering into his ear, he groans.
“Y-yes I want to, but I just can’t.” As your hand lay there, you feel the fabric from underneath your palm pull away from you.
“What’s really holding you back? Be honest with me, I won’t judge.”
Sighing, he throws his head back onto the wall behind him. You hear a gentle thud, as he rests his hand on your active one. Stopping you from teasing him.
“I’m just-” Continuing under his breath, he says "inexperienced."
“What happened to sampling the galaxy’s goods?” You tease lightly, you hand itching to continue its movement.
“I lied okay? What happened to no judgement?” He chuckles lowly.
“You don't have to be inexperienced, if you don't want to, of course.” You suggest, your voice a low drone in his ear. Giving him an out although you were ready to dive in head first.
He can feel your breath fanning across his skin. Sending a pang through his chest, his fingers gripping your hand tighter now. He swallows thickly, the growing arousal in his pants hard to ignore.
Profusely he apologizes for the yet again growing predicament in the room. “I want to so badly, but what if-” Through his babbling he never lets your hand go, his grip feeling more desperate than anything. Like he was fighting with himself.
Hesitantly he brings your hand closer to his erection. You can feel where the fabric starts to tent. Gently, he drags your hand up and down his shaft, producing a few groans. To him, this feeling was foreign, different than just him handling his business. It made him nervous, you on the other hand felt enthralled. Noticing the awkward position, he scoops you into his lap giving you a better angle. The strength of this man amazed you.
“Do you think you could continue by yourself?” He asks lowly, almost in a whisper.
“Of course, just let me know if you’re comfortable, okay?”
Removing his hand, he leans back. With the storm letting up and the clouds shifting, the moon peers through the window. While he was left obscured in the dark, he could faintly see you. Steadily, you continue your movements, hearing subtle grunts and staggered breathing from him.
“That’s great, whatever you’re doing, keep doing it. Just let me-”
Shifting, he begins to undo his button and zipper, the bottom half of his body just barely lit by the sky. It was a spectacle as he pulled it out. Unleashing it from the reins of his undergarments it looked heavy. It was thick and longer than you had felt through his pants.
You lean in close, trapping heat between you. You can feel the pre-cum dripping down your knuckles. When you let up and he watches the moonlight glint off of the string of saliva descending toward his throbbing cock.
He watches it fall, warm and viscous on the tip. Now slick, your hand pumps effortlessly. Earning a few strained moans as you picked up the pace.
He reaches out for you, his hand just barely grazing your side. “I wanna touch you.” He breathes out. “Please.”
You give him a nod, leaning into his touch. Immediately his hand makes full contact with your side, squeezing it. Running his fingers down and across. You shiver. His fingertips leave goosebumps in their wake and when they cup your breasts you let out a whimper.
He growls in response, sliding his hand up your shirt, his calloused digits warm. The combination of the pleasurable feeling on your skin and just how solid his cock was, was enough for you to want to keep eliciting those noises out of him.
“How does this feel, are you comfortable?”
“F-feels great.” Looking up, he takes note of how stunning you look.
How your hand delicately works around his excited member. The focused look on your face, making sure he felt comfort and pleasure. He loved the way you sat so perfectly on top of him, moonlight reflecting off you. You were an angel in his eyes. The sensation was overwhelming, nothing he had ever experienced before. Shamelessly, he ruts into your hand. Drunk on pleasure, he fucks your fist.
Struggling to speak, he whines. “More. Need more.”
Not letting up your movements, you lean towards him. “What do you need more of?” You tease.
Your head ducked dangerously close to his shaft. His hands find their way to your shoulders, then up to your head. His finger hooking into your jaw, he taps it twice.
He lets out a breathy sigh, voice gruff. “You.”
You smile at him impishly, giving him a few slow hard strokes. Strangling his cock at the base you slide backwards off of his lap, your head landing between his thighs. You hold it, feeling how he throbs with each heartbeat. It twitches and jumps in your grip as you nip at the exposed skin of his hip. You gaze into the shadows, knowing he was somewhere in there. You drag your tongue base to tip. Earning a low rumbling moan from Mando.
“Fuck.” He throws his head back, immediately raising it again to watch how your tongue caresses the veins on his cock.
It had to be physically impossible to be so turned on, so hard he was convinced it added another inch or two. He hissed when your tongue circled the tip. It was so sensitive. You take a second to revel in the feeling of his cock leaking on your tongue before taking him in. Slowly at first you let him really feel the wet warm flesh of your mouth. He lets out a long drawn out fuuuck.
You got about half way when you felt him hit the back of your throat. He grunted in response, his hips bucking, causing you to gag and drool. Moving up and down, with your other hand, you move it to the base of his cock stroking it. Immediately, both his hands grip your hair, pushing him further into your warm mouth. Your other hand firmly cups his heavy jewels through the taught fabric of his pants. They flex at your touch, Mando cries out.
“Kriff! I’m so close!”
Having not been familiar with your actions, it overstimulated him. Working him in so many places, all the new sensations, it was too much. Just as soon as it began, it was practically over. Just like that, ropes of cum spew out of him, the feeling of his warm seed flowing down your throat made your eyes roll back. Removing yourself from him with a pop, you both take a moment to catch your breath.
“I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to do that so fast…” Bashfully, he begins to fix his pants.
“It’s alright, definitely not the fastest I’ve seen someone cum.” You joke, wiping your hands with a cloth from your nearby supply store.
Laughing, he retorts. “Please don’t lie.”
“Really! I’m not lying! The record was about a minute, with my first boyfriend. That’s why we broke up a week later.”
“That’s harsh.” He comments, feeling embarrassed and wondering if you’d leave him in such a short time.
“Kidding! It was because he cheated on me. Go figure.”
“Who would ever cheat on you?” He speaks, feeling a new sense of confidence. “I can finally admit you’re amazing to your face.” He chuckles. “Even before this. I’ve always admired how you carry yourself. It doesn’t hurt that I think you’re drop dead gorgeous."
“I would one day hope to see if you are just as attractive.” You prod.
Day VI - Eddie Munson x Reader x Argyle Headcanons
Summary: Headcanons of Eddie and Argyle being besties and meeting you
Pairing: Eddie Munson x GN!Reader x Argyle
Word Count: 1,074
Warnings: Minors please do not interact, 21+ content below | Weed and Alcohol | Adult Age AU, Eddie Lives AU, Crackship (Mostly platonic)
Author: Barnes
How They Meet
Argyle
Finds himself in Hawkins to visit Jonathan for a little longer than expected
His stash is running dry
Jonathan is too busy dealing with bitchless problems to provide him with any more than a general area to find the hookup
He finds himself awkwardly standing in a wooded area that was way too close to a school, his visor useless against the treeline's shade
The Surfer boy pizza van awkwardly parked by a dumpster, sticking out like a sore thumb
Eddie
Comes out from behind a tree with his stash box
Filled to the brim with low potency brick weed amongst other things
Eddie/Argyle
Greet each other
“Hey” “Hey Dude”
Eddie is cautious at first
They're both wary of each other
In a sort of unserious, serious/sarcastic way
They ask like "You got the stuff?" Or "You party, man?"
Eddie tries to upsell him at first on account of the midwestern instinct to shit on California
Not realizing bro is a 24/7 stoner with innate knowledge of weed
Argyle remarks how the quality is like ditch weed compared to top shelf calif-orn-I-A bud
"Oh man, you guys got that Mexican brick weed. That'll barely lift you off the ground."
"You gotta try this brother."
Purple palm tree delight
Gets it from Humboldt county
The most potent he's ever smoked!
He shows Eddie his last few nugs
"That purple color aint for nothing brochacho"
(Obviously they became best friends after this bonding experience)
On The Way/In California Together
Eddie
Eddie decides it's time to move to Cali for “his big break”
Eddie insists on taking his van and following Argyle cross country
He breaks down at least twice
They don't share the same taste in music but share a few tunes with each other
Argyle
“Woah man, uh no offense but are you sure the lady can make it all the way to home base?”
Leads the way, disregarding any and all speed limits
Surprisingly no tickets
Eddie/Argyle
They stop at various gas stations
Often trying odd and/or unpalatable gas station concoctions
Munchies for the road are a must
“This shmacks!” It's just a chili dog with crushed up potato chips on it
They pull into rest stops
They definitely hot box the van
Their talks start surface level, but gradually open up to full on existentialism (Mostly from Eddie)
Argyle offers a place for Eddie to stay (His grandma’s house)
Eddie declines and sleeps in the van for about 3 days before he decides that being baked alive during the day waiting for Argyle to come home from work and freezing at night wasn't really a viable option anymore
Stays with Argyle at his grandma’s only until he can afford a place to stay
Earns his keep by helping abuela around the house and with other chores
She nicknamed him Peligroso (dangerous) because of the whole metalhead edgy look he’s got going on
Eddie busks on/near the beach because he doesn't want to sell drugs fulltime anymore, and gives most of what he makes to abuela
She secretly stashes it for him
During the day, he usually stops by at the end of Argyle’s shift, bringing what he calls “A fair trade” which is just a 3.5 for some pizza
Smoke a blunt while the sun sets on the hood of the van
When They Meet You
Eddie/Argyle
Eddie manages to catch the eye of a bar owner hanging out on the beach
Of course Argyle comes to support when Eddie books
You find yourself in the bar for fun or to cool off, whichever fits you best
Argyle makes conversation with you because you're standing next to him
He remarks about how good the guy playing is
He's trying to wingman
You agree
He lets you know that truthfully that's his “brochacho” up there
Introduces you to Eddie after his set
Eddie finds you very attractive
Flirts a little
Remarks on how eye catching you are
Buys you a beer
Offers you a smoke
Eventually Argyle joins the conversation
He doesn't really know how to flirt, mostly just calls you nice looking and funny
Stares, kinda half zoned in, a lazy smile on his face
After the bar, they take you to Surfer Bro Pizza after hours and you guys get an intoxicated slice.
When You Start to Fall
Besties ever since
Until you start to fall for both of them
It's easy to understand it as platonic love, to chalk it all up to that.
But what about the butterflies you get in your stomach when their knees brush against yours in the black of the van when you're hanging out?
Spending time with them is the best
The way that Eddie lights your bowl for you every time
Argyle has all of your favorite snacks stowed in his cooler
All three of you have sleepovers in the van on the beach
Falling asleep on each other's shoulders
Argyle loves to twirl your hair around his fingers
Eddie often hooks his legs over yours when he sleeps
You often wake up smushed between them two but don’t mind
Valentine’s Head Cannons
Eddie brings you a different kind of flower bouquet
Argyle gets you actual flowers, stuff he picked on one of his deliveries
Whether the relationship you all have has a label is up to the aether, however you all cant deny that its something special
You offer to cook them dinner in your shitty apartment kitchen, but Argyle takes the three of you to his job and cooks up a heart shaped pie for the occasion
You finally feel like you have something to celebrate on this day
You guys spend the bulk of the day hanging out in the van per usual
Maybe a candle or two lit not romantically…unless
Unspoken tension, just a little bit
You end the night in your apartment, chilling, smoking perhaps?
A movie plays but it's hard to pay attention, especially when you're all pressed thigh to thigh on your couch
The two most special guys in the universe at your side
You feel such pride to have them as companions, they feel the same way
Argyle puts his arm around your shoulder while Eddie leans into your side
The day was perfect, the night is just as perfect
And all the days after leaving you surrounded by doting partners in crime
Summary: You accompany Bucky on a Valentine's day date.
Pairing: James “Bucky” Barnes x GN! Reader
Word Count: 3,352
Warnings: None
Authors: Barnes and Howlett
Author Notes: We had a lot of fun writing this little bite sized fic, it's a bit more on the comical side, hope y'all enjoy!! ~ Howlett 🌙
Your heart flutters as the fated, knock knock knock, raps at your apartment's door. Hours of getting ready just for tonight coalescing into this very moment. Your shoes clack against the wooden floor, trying not to seem too eager. But, this super soldier’s hearing could tell by the haste how excited you were. You swing open the door, marveling at the broad shouldered gentleman before you. Bucky Barnes, adorned in a suit with a single red rose clutched in his flesh hand. His blue eyes staring at you affectionately. Beholding your visage as you appear from around the door.
“Wow, you look stunning.” He hands you the rose, taking your free hand to spin you slowly.
“Looking sharp yourself.” You giggle, leading him further into your apartment.
He takes you into his arms in a strong embrace. The smell of his cologne, warm and musky. He had tamed his hair, slicking it back for today’s occasion. You break from his grasp and grab your belongings and put the rose in a vase.
“C’mon hun, you know you don't need your bag tonight, I have everything planned.”
“I always need my bag, Buck. You never know.” You give him a pointed look.
He shakes his head and laughs. “Fair point. But your chariot awaits.” He gestures to the door.
Just outside of your building his car waits. Bucky, ever the gentleman of course opens the car door for you.
Shooting him a smile you enter the vehicle. He closed the door once you settled into your seat, then lightly jogged to the driver side. Igniting the engine the radio blares as the car roars awake. The station was set to play some oldies, playing classics from the 1950s. Sh-Boom by the Crew Cuts had filled both of your ears.
“Hey they play this song in Cars.” You attempt to crack a joke.
Confused, Bucky tilts his head. “Cars?”
“You know, like the movie. Cars? Pixar animation? Released in 2006?”
With every fact you stated about the movie, Bucky still could not comprehend what you were saying.
“I guess I’ll have to put that on my watchlist.” Thoughtfully, he takes a worn notepad out of his breast pocket and pens down. Pixar Cars?
Tucking away the pad, he grabs your hand gently and brings your knuckles up to his lips, kissing them softly. “Tonight’s going to be perfect!"
You reply “As long as I’m with you, every moment is perfect.”
He pulls the car out of the lot, your fingers now intertwined with his over the center console. The drive was long, the streets of New York congested as per usual, even more so with the holiday. Tall buildings enshrouded the two of you in the car. You watch as they go by. The ride is comfortable, silent, with the quiet hum of oldies and traffic filling your ears.
Finally Bucky drives onto a scaffolded street, well dressed couples all around. He pulls the car into a valet lane. Giving you one last longing look before he speaks. “We’re here.”
He steps out of the car and jogs near your door. Opening it, he extends his hands to guide you out of your seat. As you thanked him, he tosses the car keys to the valet driver.
“Where are we?” You questioned as you stared at the entrance of a hotel.
Just over the revolving doors hung an awning with the hotel's name on it, decorated in black and dark green stripes. Faded gold retracting belt barriers sat along the sidewalk, accompanied by a dirty red carpet.
“It’s a surprise!” Linking his arm in yours, he leads you through the entrance.
“Welcome to DoubleTree, my name is Javier, how can I assist you?” A doorman greeted the both of you.
The hotel was spectacular. The off beige walls reflected the light from the crystal chandeliers perfectly. Each employee was dressed to the utmost elegance, each awaiting to be of service to a patron.
“We have reservations, thanks.” Bucky waved off the doorman as the both of you headed towards the elevator.
“So we’re not getting a hotel room?” You ask as Bucky pressed the button for the elevator.
“We most definitely already have a room reserved.” He smiles down at you, the slight crows feet crinkling in the corners of his eyes
He looks at you with such adoration that it makes your heart melt every time. You had seen him through the worst of it, now on the other side unscathed and in more love than ever.
The elevator dings as you enter a roped off hallway, a hostess standing at a podium ready to greet you. Big letters adorn the plaque on the base of the podium and on the frosted doors. ‘Duomo51’
“Barnes, table for two.” He says to the hostess.
“Welcome Mr. Barnes. Right this way.” The hostess makes a note to look at you as well, a welcoming smile on her lips.
She leads the two of you to a beautifully and simply decorated table. Romantic, an old world vibe. The sun still high in the sky gave the room a fresh look.
“I do apologize as we currently do not have any tables available, would a booth be alright?” She smiles, a hint of nervousness accompanying it.
Bucky sighs. “I thought I made a reservation for a table-”
“A booth will be fine!” Cutting him off, you gently grab his hand and squeeze it.
The hostess lays the two menus on the table as she gestures the both of you towards your seats.
“Your server will be right with you!” The hostess almost runs away as you take note of the area.
“I’m so glad we got to sit by the flowers! They’re absolutely beautiful.” You adore the floral arrangement as Bucky groans.
“You know I hate booths… But seeing the smile on your face makes up for it.”
Surveying the area, his eyes scan for potential threats. An old habit he still couldn't kick, no matter who he was with. He pulls your chair out for you, and sits across from you in the all too squishy fabric seating, he could never have his back against the door even if it meant sitting in the booth.
Clearing his throat Bucky shoots you a smile. “Pretty snazzy, huh?” He shifts in his seat, undoing his jacket button to be more comfortable.
“I’ve never been somewhere, so upscale.” You gush.
Your thoughts are cut short by the waiter coming by with the wine menu. “Hello, I am Alfonso, I will be your waiter during this fine dining experience. May I offer you the wine menu?”
Bucky nods and takes the menu, his eyes roaming over at least a hundred bottles of wine, ranging in prices from seventy to thirteen-hundred dollars.
He makes a pinched face as looks towards the waiter. “What would you recommend, uh Alfonso?”
Alfonso, quickly composes himself and begins to list off champagne, and bubblies, for perhaps a celebration, then vintage reds, whites, from varying regions of France, Italy, and Portugal.
“I’ll do an Italian Red, that uhh-” he glances at you his eyes comically widened before looking down at the menu finding literally any red italian he remembers the waiter listing off. “Rosso Di Montalcino.”
“Ah, Le Potazzine, excellent year. Very good, sir. I’ll be right back with that.” He takes the wine menu and walks away.
“I’m pretty sure you just got scammed.” You chuckle as you glance over the food menu.
“What? No I didn’t!” Scoffing, he pondered it. “Okay, maybe a little but at least I didn’t ask for one of the expensive bottles.” He didn’t want to be pegged for a fool.
“You know one hundred and fifteen dollars is not cheap for everyday people like me?”
“Well tonight, you’re my beautiful date and whatever you like will be yours. No matter the price.”
Blushing, you couldn’t help but smile. “James, you always know how to make me swoon.”
Taking in the menu, you were astonished by the array of food they served. The chefs served cuisine from nearly every Western European country. Italy, France, the UK, and even Spain. It was overwhelming to an extent, but you were filled with curiosity of names of dishes you had never heard before.
“Shall we get appetizers?” He asks.
“Uhh-” You trail off, looking over the hefty priced appetizers.
“Anything you want, anything.” He reminds you gently, his hand reaches for yours on the table, squeezing it.
“Alright, you know I'm a sucker for good charcuterie." You say in a French accent, mimicking the waiter’s.
The waiter then rounds the corner, appearing at the table side. An embarrassed blush and giggle leave your mouth as you and Bucky try not to laugh in the poor guy's face.
He smiles. "I see you are ready for appetizers, the Salummi E Formaggi?" He asks, hamming up his accent just a bit to tease the two of you.
You both nod, a soft chuckle coming from Bucky as the waiter leaves once more. A shared look was all it took for you to dissolve into a giggle fit. Careful not to disturb the other restaurant goers, you clasp your hand over your mouth. Bucky just beams at you, a glint in his eyes as your hair catches errant sunrays. You were a vision of beauty surrounded by flowers, he could look at this forever.
The food came and went as the two of you were starved, you nearly devoured it. For the entrees, you elected for the spicy rigatoni alla vodka. Bucky had a keen eye for the tagliata di manzo. Each of your dishes had been absolutely devine. In between courses, the both of you continued to crack jokes about the waiter while discussing work related things from the week before. The restaurant began to fill more tables, as you both had finished up the better part of your meals.
The waiter returned to the table, almost on cue. “I take it your meals were rather delicious, no?”
“They were absolutely delicious.” You praise. “Compliments to the chef.”
“Yes, very good. Can I interest you in taking a peek at our dessert menu. Decadence awaits, here.” He taps on the dessert menu.
Your eyes widened, like a second stomach had opened up. The thought of a dessert to end the night sounded just right. Before you could speak, Bucky waved him away.
“No, thanks pal. I got dessert covered tonight.” He throws you a sly wink. “Just the check please.”
You gave him a stern look for a second before realizing what he said. A slight blush spreads across your cheeks and chest. When the check comes, Bucky ever the old-man pulls out a money clip stuffed with twenty dollar bills, at least an inch thick. He pays, leaving the server with a hefty tip. Unbeknownst to you, Bucky had swiped a flower on the way out of your section.
You thank Bucky for the meal and make your way back to the bottom floor of the hotel, a bit confused.
“Uh, babe dessert?” You question, nudging him in the ribs cheekily.
“That’s where we’re going.” He chuckles, tickled by your boldness.
Exiting the hotel, Bucky pays for the valet. The car arrives, once again, he opens the door for you. Thanking him for what seems to be the hundredth time tonight, you take your seat. Briskly jogging to his side of the car, he enters.
Without giving him a second to settle into the vehicle, you ask. “So where are we going?”
Surprised by your fervor, he answers. “It’s a secret.” Chuckling, he fastens his seatbelt.
“You’re no fun.” Putting on a fake pout, Bucky pulls into the road, heading to the next destination.
“No fun? The night isn’t over yet.”
You sit back in your seat with a huff, turning your head to meet him with a smile. He knew you were just teasing him. He was exactly where he wanted to be.
“Oh and I noticed you left your flower at home so…” He pulls the flower he swiped from the restaurant out. “Plucked that one with precision.” He snickers.
“James Buchanan Barnes!” You yell, exasperated. “You stole this?!”
You couldn't help but grin ear to ear, at his gesture. He took the time at a stop light to gently tuck it into your hair, his hand cupping your face for just a second before he had to get his eyes back on the road.
The bustling burrows became familiar at once. Store faces you knew like the back of your hand. Stopping right outside of Papareli's Gelato, the shop you worked at, when you met Bucky for the first time. Your eyes well with tears.
“What are we doing here?” You ask, face almost pressed to the glass.
“I thought we should visit the place that changed my life.” He replied, watching you longingly.
As he pulled the vehicle into park, he again, jogged over to your door to open it. Each time, offering his hand.
“My love, after you.” He helps you out of the car and leads you to the disheveled shop.
It was not anything special, but on that fateful day, Bucky was craving a gelato and this shop was the only one open at such a late hour.
The walls were painted lime green and magenta, a few stock pictures of gelato hanging throughout them. White and black checkered tiles appeared cracked, some of them even missing. Each worker displayed the same gloomy expression that the store possessed.
“Welcome in.” One moody teenager stated, not looking up from his cellular device.
Bucky pressed his lips into a thin line giving the kid a brief nod before walking up to the glass case that held at least twelve tubs of frozen goodness. Initially he paid no attention to you standing just behind the case. When he finally settled on the flavor he wanted, he looked at you, his brain short circuiting for a second.
“Uh, hi hey. Can you give me a second? I just totally blanked.” He ran his gloved hand down his face briefly before scanning the flavors once again.
“Yeah sure, take your time.” You nod, taking in his frazzled state. It was kinda cute.
Bucky ordered his gelato and left the second he paid. He also just happened to come back the next day, then the next, then the next, then everyday for the rest of the month. Each time talking to you more and more until one day he gets the courage to finally ask you on a date.
The bell jingles as Bucky holds open the door for you. Immediately you are greeted by the person behind the counter. A small line of people, mostly couples, eager to get their hands on the special Valentine’s day flavor of gelato. The shop was busier than when you worked there. He holds your hand in line, giving you reassuring squeezes as the two of you get to the glass. Your eyes rake hungrily over the familiar flavors, until landing on the holiday tub. It was chocolate covered strawberry. Your eyes grew big as you looked up at Bucky, pointing at the flavor through the glass.
“Ooh good choice.” He nods, giving you a thumbs up.
“Milkeshake? That you?” A boisterous Italian accent rings through the shop.
On your first day of working at the shop, you accidentally spilled over the first milkshake you ever made. Since then, Giacomo granted you the name that reminded you of your first failure.
“Hi Giacomo.” You wave shyly at the stout aproned man behind the counter.
“It’s always nice to see you hun. Even if you're here with the man that took you from us!” He playfully gives Bucky a disapproving look. “Now, what’d’ya want? It’s on me!
“Giacomo, no! I can't accept that.” You refuse, shaking your head.
“Kid, it's a day of love, let me spread it. To you and the pretty boy.” He winks.
“Alright alright, fine. But we're doing a cone to share.” You point at Giacomo.
“Aye no problem! Anything for you two lovebirds. What flava?”
“The specialty please.” Bucky chimes in.
“I’ll throw in some extra sprinkles, how bout that huh?” He churtles.
“Sure Giacomo.” You answer amused.
Bucky pulls you off to the side as you await the order. It came in less than a minute, you being a priority customer of course.
“Alirght here you twos are, some of the finest gelato in the world right there.” Handing off the cone, he continues to go off on one of his tangents. “And you remember that alright? You always got a family with us. I bet your employer now can’t even appreciate cha like I do.”
Before he could continue, Bucky is sure to make a move. “Hey thanks Giacomo, we’ll see you again sometime.”
Whisking you away, your former boss yells from across the shop. “Alright now, you two stay safe! Make sure you have protection alright! Take care milkshake!”
Customers made disgusted faces as the two of you chuckled and walked out of the shop.
“I’ll never get tired of that old man. He always has something to say.” You state, taking the first bite of the sweet treat.
“That’s one way to put it.” He chuckles, pulling you away from the store front.
Bucky leads you past the car and on to the other side of the street.
“Uh car’s that way, where are we going?” You tug on his arm.
“I told you I had everything planned. Let’s take a walk.” He drags you along at a bit of a rushed pace. “C’mon.”
He leads you to a nearby park, the Hudson river’s water glistening as the sun begins to fall low in the sky. Painting the air above with pink and orange hues.
“Woah.” You breathe out as he gestures to you to sit on a nearby rock formation. He sits with you.
“Quite the view, huh?” He smirks. “You know I came here. After that first week of knowing you. I really saw the beauty in it, I think, for the first time in my life. How to, I don't know, take it all in.” He admits, his voice low and reflective.
“After that first week, why?” You ask, looking over the water reverently.
“Because it helped me realize I needed to be a better man before asking out someone like you.” Bashfully, he looks at the water.
“James, I’m sure you were just a fine enough man to ask me out sooner.” Chuckling, you give a playful nudge.
“You know that’s not true.” Reflecting, he continued to watch the waves crash into each other. “I don’t know how a guy like me ended up with someone like you. It’s something I always think about.”
You reach out your hand, gently grasping his face to turn it towards you. Sighing, you see the sorrow reflecting on his features.
“You should never think that way James. You’re perfect just the way you are.”
He smiled as he felt his chest fill with butterflies. Even though the two of you had been seeing each other for quite some time, you always knew how to make him feel like a young man in the forties again. Bashful, hanging on your every whim. You knew how to speak to him just right.
Without another word he leans in. With a smile you graciously accept his lips. Familiarly plush and gentle. He was always gentle when it came to you. You felt the butterflies coarse through you. His arms wrapped your waist in a hug, pulling you close to him.
When your lips disconnect, he can't help but bury his face into your shoulder, rubbing the bridge of his nose into your neck.
His voice came through muffled yet sincere. “I love you so much.”
You gently guide his head away from you to look into his eyes. Love occupying his glossy gaze.
Cupping his face in your hands you affectionately lean your forehead against his.
Summary: Deciding to stay home instead of accompanying your housemates to a night at the club, Erik finds you in a rather suggestive situation.
Pairing: Erik Lehnsherr (Magneto) x AFAB!Reader
Word Count: 5,221
Warnings: Minors please do not interact, 18+ content below | Masturbation, exhibition, sex toy, oral (female receiving), fingering, unprotected p in v, orgasm control, cumming inside, after care, friends to lovers, vulgar language
Author: Howlett
Author Notes: WHERE MY MAGNETO STANS AT!! AU where Erik and Charles actually care for each other like friends are supposed to and Erik lives in the X mansion, set to be young Erik from the movies :3 This was just to feed my personal delusions and maybe somebody else's idk. Also this is my first time writing smut literally ever so please don’t bully me 💔 but I want feedback :3 thanks ~ Howlett 🌙
It had been a long week to say the least. From the extensive training, to you almost crashing the Blackbird, and having to save a government official just this morning, a long relaxing weekend is just what you need. Your housemates did not think the same, most of them would rather have gone out instead. What they wanted to do was not of your concern, you merely desired to put on some joggers, grab a family sized bag of chips, and have a movie marathon. Which is exactly what you opted to do when asked to join the gang out for some drinks.
While most of the residence went out, Erik on the other hand decided to do something productive. He would much rather spend his next few hours at the local grocery store. You weren’t one to stop him, after all, someone really did need to stock up the fridge. Although it would have been nice to do something involving the two of you, you'd rather stay at home in lounge clothes.
After bidding adieu to your fellow house mates, you make your way into the kitchen. Examining the mansion you bask in the surroundings. The lights that hung from the ceiling, emitted a soft tone that set the mood for the night. The lack of noise was almost uncanny. Entering, you make note of the dirty dishes that Charles left behind and remind yourself to scold him about it later.
Fishing in the cupboard, you try to find a bag that isn’t expired or stale from the lack of proper insulation. Thankfully, hidden in the far back was the flavor of potato chips you were looking for, unopened. Lady luck had been on your side. You decided to shoot Erik a text asking for more chips, informing him of the mess you discovered.
Walking down the long quiet halls, you thought about how alone time in the mansion was rare, especially this late at night. This will be something you definitely won’t be taking for granted. Arriving in your private quarters, you remember the movie Kurt recommended to you the other day. This would be the perfect time to give it a try. Reaching your bed, you make yourself comfortable in your heated weighted blanket. You dimmed your lights to a soft pink and turned on your lavender scented humidifier.
Flicking on the movie, you take a deep breath appreciating the ability to be by yourself. The film wasn’t necessarily boring, the pacing just felt agonizingly slow. While you wanted to wind down this busy week with something less intensive, this movie was just not doing it. Sure the star was rather attractive, but it really wasn’t enough to keep you intrigued.
I can’t believe Kurt said this was the movie of the year.
Feeling like you owe your friend the liberty of watching it, you did just that. No matter how many minutes would pass, the pace would not pick up. The most interesting thing to happen is that the two main characters had a slight argument. Maybe you didn’t understand the movie? A little too artistic for your taste?
Sighing, you glance over to your bedside table, placing the bag of chips on it. A thought popped into your head. You were due for some self care, this week was for sure one of the hardest of the year. Peering over to the table, you glue your eyes to the drawer. Erik wasn’t due back for another hour or so. The roommates in your wing were definitely not coming home till the early hours of the morning. This was the perfect opportunity.
Wiping away the salt that was stuck to your fingers, you pull open the drawer. Just under a half empty container of chocolates was a box that housed your rose toy. Your anticipated hands gently unboxed it. Flashing back to the last time you used it, you checked its battery life. Switching it on, you were satisfied at how alive the device was. You took this time to turn off the TV, thankful you wouldn’t have to suffer any more from that dreadful film.
Moving your hands down the waistband of your pants, you couldn’t help but think of one person. The way he had been teasing you all week, the flirtatious banter the two of you would exchange. Often you wouldn’t think much of it, but lately, its got you worked up. Just pondering about it instantly changed your sour mood from the disappointing film.
Delicately peeling the pants off your ankles, you throw them across the room in an attempt to make them into a hamper. You missed, but you didn’t care. Every second that past, you felt heat rise throughout your body. Eagerly, you flick on the toy to the perfect setting, bringing it in between your legs.
Reflecting over the past week, you remember those few moments in the danger room with Erik. Recently he had been particularly tough on you. Spending more time on you than others, paying special attention to your hand-to-hand combat. Time after time, you found yourself fully submitted to him. Anywhere from an arm in guillotine hold to a rear naked choke, he wasn’t showing any signs of restraint. He wanted to test you as much as he could.
While at the time, it was shameful to have him defeat you over and over again. Looking back, all you could conceive was the way his body would feel against yours. The way his broad veiny hands would move around you. Grazing across your back, thighs, abdomen, resting there just a little too long.
The heat in between you that’s been built up from sweat and yearning. His forceful grip submitting you against him, holding you flush. Feeling his hot strained breath spill across your neck. The teasing words from his low, deep voice, whispered into your ear. The more you thought about him, the closer you could feel your release.
While you found yourself busy, Erik had returned loaded with groceries. The local grocer was close to empty, considering it was a Friday night. So, that made it easy for Erik to move in and out of the store without any crowds or hiccups.
Walking in the mansion, he didn’t expect it to be so quiet. It was almost eerie. He knew all the younglings went out, along with Charles, of course. The thought of being inside a club, body to body, blaring lights and music, with the overwhelming smell of alcohol sent a shiver down his spine.
After packing away all the groceries, he decided to look for you. He knew you opted to stay home, probably to do nothing at all. Clueless and innocently, he makes his way towards your room. The closer he got, the more his concern grew. In the distance he could only hear what to him sounded like groans of pain and strangely, his name.
He could feel his stomach drop and his heart rate increase, he quickened his steps. Without even thinking, he forces your door open to unveil a sight he did not expect.
Before him was you, bottoms off, legs spread, and pussy slick. On impulse you yelped, snapped your legs shut, and threw the toy across the room.
“Oh my- I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to-” As he struggled for words, he could not take his eyes off you, frozen in place unable to move.
You're dazed, trying to get under the covers as quickly as possible.
“I thought I locked the door!” You roll over, trying to hide your shameful face in your pillows.
“No, I’m the one that should be sorry. I just thought you were in trouble or in pain.”
As the conversation was going, the toy continued to vibrate off on the floor just over yonder. Being the gentleman he was, Erik took the liberty of turning it off with the flick of his wrist.
Embarrassed, you continue to hide in your silk covered pillows. “Can you at least close the door?”
“Of course.” It took him a moment but eventually he adhered to your request.
Upon hearing the click of the lock, you let out a sigh of relief. Glancing towards the door, you did not expect to see Erik standing in the room with you.
“What are you doing?” A puzzled look fell on your face.
Despite the obvious awkwardness of the situation, the room in the air felt thick. You could feel the heat rise in your cheeks as Erik held an allured expression. His knuckles appeared a pale white as he was gripping the doorknob. Calculating, he thought about what his next words should be.
“I thought I’d give you some company. After all, you were calling my name.” Holding a smirk, he took a step closer, examining your reaction.
The temperature in the room continued to rise as you thought about how the next few minutes would play out. All of the heat throughout your body seemed to zero in on one area in particular, your throbbing cunt.
“Company?” Was all you could manage to say.
He raised his hand and your toy followed suit, making its way in between his determined digits. Curiously, he began to investigate the device.
“Is this how you pleasure yourself? With such ridiculous toys?” He locked his eyes onto you as you sink further into your bed.
Walking closer, he tsked. “You know I could do a much better job than this pathetic toy.”
Reaching the foot of your bed, he placed the device on your mattress. He then removed his jacket blazer, folding it neatly on the bed as he spoke.
“I would love for you to show me how you use this.” Waving his hand once more, the toy raised from the end of the bed to just above your hip line.
“If you’re willing, of course.”
Without a second thought, you agreed. “Y-yes, absolutely.”
Almost a little too giddy, you start to lower the heavy blanket.
“Allow me.” He interrupts, as he gently removes the blanket from around you using his abilities.
The anticipation settled deep into your core as you realized how exposed you would be. You could hear both of your steady breaths pick up in pace as he finally revealed what he wanted to see. The pink light resonated perfectly off your soft skin. Slowly, you pulled your legs open to show him your wet folds. He took a deep breath, attempting to subdue himself.
“Wunderschön.” With another hand movement, the toy magically found its way into your hand.
Nervously, you move it down to below your waist as he turns it on with a small movement of his fingers. You yelp in surprise as he chuckled lightly. Without a second thought, you push the toy against your clit.
Relaxing your body, you focus on the sensation of the toy. The pulling movements and gentle vibration that drove you crazy. It was a bit nerve wrecking to be on display for your friend, whom you’ve always held a fondness for. It was surreal how just a few hours ago you had a normal everyday interaction with him. Now you’re living in a dream, deepening the intimacy between the two of you.
You glance up at Erik, who was engrossed in the actions of the device. Noticing a sight bulge peering from his khakis, it enthralled you knowing you were the culprit for his arousal. Continuing to analyze him, you make note of how attractive he appeared at this very moment. The way his black shirt fit him so snuggly, accentuating his sculpted biceps. The look on his face was one you’ve never seen before. It was filled with a burning lust, a craving even.
“Mein schatz, this was not how I remember you pleasuring yourself earlier.” He spoke softly, just loud enough for you to hear over your moans.
Closing your eyes, you hone in on his voice.
“Say my name.” He demanded sternly, a drastic juxtaposition to his previous statement.
You obeyed.
“Erik~”
Whimpering, your body convulses as you feel your orgasm growing. Your breaths get heavier and less controllable as the air in the room thickens. Throughout your body, you feel a slim coat of sweat arising. Dipping your head into your pillows, you continue to cry out his name. The sensation deep within you widened, you could feel just how close you were.
Looking back up, you lock eyes with Erik. He wasn’t expecting the mutual gaze but it was very welcomed. Attempting to restrain himself, he dug his nails into the palm of his hands as his erection became harder to hide. Your body was quivering and your legs began to shake. Singing his name like a prayer, you continued.
“So close-“ You groan, almost ready to make your release.
Unexpectedly and to your dismay, you felt a strange pull from the toy. It left your hands and was now back on the floor where you once threw it. Immediately you sit up and grow a confused look on your face.
“W-what happened?” You asked, out of breath, nearly throwing your hands up in defeat.
“Now that I know how this toy pleasures you.” He slips his shoes and socks off. “May I take my turn? I want to taste you.” He spoke sternly, enchanted with your cunt.
“Yes please do.” You reply eagerly.
Climbing onto the bed, he lays onto the mattress raising your legs over his shoulder. Resting his hands on your hips, he licks his lips. Without hesitation, he begins to work his tongue in between your folds. He began with a steady, excruciating slow pace. Taking his time to test you, to hear you whimper and ask for more. Delicately licking and sucking, pushing your buttons. Denying you any kind of speed. It felt as if hours had passed with the way he was moving.
“Erik, please!” You beg for him to speed up.
Having the toy ripped away from you was one thing, but this? Borderline torture.
“Be patient my sweet, I just love to see you squirm.”
Denying your requests, he remained working in a sluggish rhythm. Gingering, he drags one hand down your inner thigh. He then meticulously caresses the hole of your cunt. Earning some whimpers, he chuckles as you continue to writhe beneath him. Ever so slowly, he inserts one finger within you. He explores your cavern as he continues to slurp up your juices.
Erik had only imagined what you might taste like. He held a deep attraction towards you since the day you met. While Erik was normally one to always speak his mind, he could never quite understand why he held such restraint around you. Maybe it was the fact that he cared so deeply for you, you being the only person whose opinion mattered to him. One of the only people in his life that cared so deeply for him in return.
He never wanted to ruin it, or act on his emotions. So he rotted in them, stayed up late at night thinking of what could be. Living off fantasies, he never told a soul of what he felt. Of course, he knew that Charles accidentally saw what he was hiding. But the two of them never spoke of it, what could any of them say?
At this very moment, Erik thanked every lucky star that you decided to stay home tonight, and for him to find you in the state he did. He didn’t want to think about any repercussions that might come from tonight. He just wanted to live in this specific point in time.
“Köstlich. I could eat you all day.”
He inserts another finger, stretching you, trying to find that sweet spot. To your delight, he started to pick up the pace. Instinctly, your hands move to his head, almost burying him in your pussy. Tangling your fingers into his brown locks. You let out a moan as he seemingly found the spot he was searching for. He moved his fingers in and out, rubbing the spot as his tongue danced around your bud. His hand moved from your hip to your clothed breast. Rubbing your hard nipple through your dainty shirt.
He stopped for a moment. “Is this better than your toy, sweetheart?”
“Y-yes, so much better.” You reply, forgetting how the device worked on you mere minutes ago.
Starting back up again, he decided to add another finger, earning him a satisfying whine. The sensation was almost overwhelming, feeling him in so many places at once. How you dreamed of this, literally just a few moments ago. Feeling that deep pressure near your pelvic, your body begins to shake. Your moans grow louder, as you push his head deeper into you, suffocating him with your legs. He found a steady rhythm that sent you into overdrive.
“Erik, please, I’m so close!” You wail, wishing he won’t leave you hanging this time.
However, just like before, he pulled away. You were out of breath, your hole felt empty and your clit felt lonely. You already missed his touch, wanting him to go back.
“Why did you stop?!” You practically scream at him, annoyed and frustrated.
“Be patient darling, good things come to those who wait.”
You huff out a heavy sigh as he moves your legs off his broad shoulders.
“It better be worth the wait.” You reply smugly.
Chukling, he retorts. “Trust me, it will be.”
He sits on his knees taking a moment to examine the sight in front of him. You lay there, hair a mess, thrown about on your pillows. Trying to catch your breath, he watches your chest raise and fall. Your legs, slightly opened as he can see your beautiful folds glistening in the pink light. He sure as hell will not forget this moment. Nervous, you felt exposed as he only stared and did not say a word.
“What are you staring at?” You ask abruptly, withdrawing into yourself.
“Only just the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen.” He smiles warmly, climbing on top of you.
Blushing, you couldn’t think of a reply and instead feel a flutter within your chest. You beam back, letting out a giddy giggle.
Resting each of his hands on your sides, his legs sat outside yours holding his weight. Inching his face closer to yours, he stops just before his lips could meet yours. For the first time since you’ve known him, he looked, nervous?
“Something on your mind?” Asking, you caress his face with your hand.
You stare up at him doe-eyed, he had never been this close before. Sure, during training you would be all over each other, but this was different. This was intentional, unlike the consequential circumstances in the danger room. His hands found their way to your face, they cupped your checks as he held a soft expression. You retract your hand.
“Just thinking of doing something I’ve been meaning to do for a while.” Without a second thought, he leans in.
It was soft at first, but you could feel yourself melting into him. You always imagined your first kiss together would have more romantic undertones, but this will do. He was gentle, a stark contrast given the current situation. His lips felt soft, warm, and welcoming. As he pulls you in closer, you stretch your hands across his back, deepening the kiss.
Feeling a buzz on your lips, you felt a hunger for more. Slightly parting your mouth, you snake your tongue against Erik’s. Finding a steady rhythm, Erik found his hand pushing you in from the back of your head. You groan in response, as he tugged at the hem of your shirt.
Ever the gentlemen, he asked. “May I?”
Giving an enthusiastic nod, he pulls the shirt over your torso and off your body, tossing it onto the floor.
Taking a second to observe you, he gives a compliment. “Absoltuey gorgeous.”
He begins to devour your neck, causing strangled sounds to leave your throat. Naturally, you turn your head to the side, allowing him more access. Your hands moved up to squeeze his biceps, urging him to give more. Continuing downward, he leaves a trail of tender kisses that stop at your chest.
His right hand found its way onto your left nub, toying with it, as his mouth worked on the other. On instinct, your hips jolt upwards beneath him, you could feel his erection press against you. Your voice hitches in your throat as you gasp upon the sudden realization of how aroused he is. He began to nip at your peaks, leaving delicate red marks that are sure to last for a few days.
Having a craving for more, you started to drag your exposed pussy against his clothed hard shaft. Switching from one breast to the other, his hips mimic your behavior. Forcing his member against your sensitive cunt. He continued to work on your mounts as you cling onto any sort of friction. Grinding desperately on him, acting like a bitch in heat.
“Erik please, I think I’ve waited long enough!” You whine, tugging at his hair.
“What is it that you need mein schatz?” He asks, as if he did not know the answer.
“You Erik, I need you!” Pleading, you whine into his ear.
Removing himself from you, he begins to undress. Peeling off his shirt, to your delight he reveals a rugged frame. Undoing his belt, you hum at the satisfying sound of the buckle being undone, it elates you. The zip sound that follows from his belt being aggressively ripped out of his pant loops excites you. He undos the button and zipper, you desperately wanted to hurry the process. So, using the bottom half of your legs, you slide down his khakis. You could see his cock desperately clinging to the fabric of his undergarment, begging to be freed.
“Eager are we?” He muses, with a shit eating grin.
You snicker, while he finally removes his last piece of clothing to fully divulge himself to you. Feeling a pit grow in your stomach, you realize you underestimated the size of his member. You didn’t realize your eyes widened as you gasped.
“You flatter me.” He quips. “And don’t worry, we’ll make it fit.”
Finding himself back on top of you, he collides his lips with yours for a car wreck of a kiss. Wrapping your legs around his hips, you try to close any gaps between you. Having his shaft rub on your sex once more. A soft noise left your throat, as you felt yourself liquify underneath him. Running your hands all around him, you were intoxicated as you sucked on each other's swollen lips.
Pulling himself away, he maneuvers your body to fit with his. Moving your legs around him as his arms hold himself up. Grabbing his member, he grunts as he mildly pumps himself a few times. You're enchanted with the sight, watching as his tip slowly drips out his excitement. He then lines himself with your anticipated hole. Before moving any further, he looks at you for reassurance. Without him saying a word you reply.
“Please Erik, want you inside me~”
With your blessing, he somewhat struggles to penetrate your tight pussy. Instantly, you feel a mix between a satisfying stretch and a slight burn. Ever so slowly, he pushes through you until he no longer can. He stills himself for a minute, wanting to process the moment. Wanting to tap into everything he was feeling. How your walls suffocate his throbbing cock, the warmth and sweat emitting from the flesh of your hips, and hearing your breathing stagger.
Slowly, he begins to thrust himself in and out of you. You can tell he was trying to be gentle, worried he would hurt you. To him, you were so precious, he didn’t want to ruin you. However, that is exactly what you wanted him to do.
Shifting your hips up slightly, he picks up the pace. You feel his grip tighten, and hear the soft bang of the headboard against the wall. With this new found position, you feel him reach deeper, you claw into his back, whining into his ear.
He began to kiss your neck as his hand found your clit. Your body leaped upwards towards him, as he traced circles around your bud. Shallow deep moans continuously fall out of your lips while he drills into you. The soft banging of the bed frame turned aggressive, accompanied with the melodious sound of skin slapping. You were eternally grateful that no one was home. For the third time tonight, you felt your body prepare for an orgasm. The pressure building up inside your lower abdomen, as Erik seemed to have finally freed himself of restraint.
“You feel so good, so much better than I imagined.” He moaned, adding to the euphoria you felt.
You thought about what he said. Thinking of how he has thought of this before, and wondering for exactly how long. Pondering on how many times he could have fantasized a scenario just like this. Waves of heat flowed throughout your body, as your legs trembled. He began to hit that special spot, causing your walls to asphyxiate his cock. Nearly growling at the feeling, he practically collapsed into you as he carried on.
“I’m so close!” You cry, hoping he would not deny you of your release again.
Thankfully, he did not stop what he was doing, and instead sped up.
“I want to feel you cum all over my cock.” He groans out.
Sloppily, he shoves himself forwards and backwards, fingers moving wildly in your folds, moaning your name into the curve of your neck.
His words cause your cavern to squeeze around him again, you are nearly breathless from all the noise you are making. Finally, with your body tensing, your back arches as you spill out your sweet juices all over him. White hot pleasure rips through you as you scream out Erik’s name.
He wasn’t far behind, removing his wet hand from your nub, he focuses on holding your hips in place as he clumsily ruts into you. Within a few thrusts, he's already met his release. An electric wave of shock shoots through him as his tip spews out cum, filling you up. Shamelessly, he lets out the most nasty moan you’ve ever heard as he holds you close against him.
Gently, he lowers himself onto you, catching his breath. Laying his head on your chest, he closes his eyes, sinking into you. Then, he was hit with the sudden realization of what he’s done. Quickly throwing himself off of you, he removes his shaft, watching your contents mix into each other as they spill out of your hole.
“I am so sorry I did not mean to do that!” His hands meet the back of his head, worried about the possible outcomes of having just cum inside you.
Letting out a tired laugh, you reassured him. “Don’t worry I’m on the pill.”
Letting out a sigh of relief, he steps off the bed walking towards your bathroom. You relax yourself, closing your eyes, not too concerned with what he was doing. He comes back with a clean rag, to which he then tenderly starts to clean up the mess you both made. Not in any rush, he takes his time. Selfishly, it was really just for him to take in your beauty for as long as he could. Softly dragging the rag around your sensitive cunt, he speaks.
“So, is this why you wanted to stay home? Hoping I would catch you in the act?” Chuckling, he prodded you.
“Absoltuey not!” You reply, coming off harsher than expected. “But, it was a much better outcome than finishing the movie I was watching.”
“Movie?”
“Kurt recommended a movie to me a few days ago, and I thought I would watch it tonight. It was so horrible!” You throw your hands over your face as you remember the disappointing film.
“What movie was it?” He tosses the rag into your hamper, missing, it landed just on top of the pants you threw earlier.
Giving him the name, he winces. “That movie?” He laughs. “That was just a plain awful film, the creators had no idea what they were doing!”
Laying beside you, he waves the blanket over the two of you using his abilities.
“I know! I honestly felt really bad that I did not find any liking towards the movie.”
He wraps his arms around your torso as his legs tangle around yours. Nuzzling his head into your shoulder, you continued on about the atrocious flick.
“What are you going to tell Kurt?” Asking, he looks up at you.
“Nothing. If he ever asks if I watched the movie, I’ll just say I never got around to it.” You shrug.
“That’s lying! Why would you lie to your friend?” He jokes.
“There is nothing wrong with a little white lie.”
“I suppose.”
Flipping yourself to your side, you face Erik head on. He doesn’t say a word as you two stare into each other's eyes. You felt awkward, not because of the current situation, but about the future. What is to be your relationship with Erik going forward? Would this be a one time thing, never to be spoken of again? Would he want to pursue something more? Would he leave your life altogether? Slowly, he saw the worry settle into your features.
“What is it mein schatz?” His hand moves to cup your face, you lean into it.
“Oh nothing. Just wondering what we do now.”
“Well, I was hoping we could just lay here if that’s alright with you.” He replies, unaware of what you truly mean.
“No I mean, what are we going forward? Are we sticking to the whole friends thing?”
Growing a thoughtful look, he took him a moment to respond. “To tell you the truth, ever since the day that you became Charles’ student, I felt something I’ve never felt before. I was so transfixed with you the moment we shook hands and exchanged names. I was so scared.”
“Scared?”
“Scared that you would never see me the way I see you.”
“And how do you see me Erik?”
Sighing, he decided to let it all out. “As someone whom I can see myself forming a life with outside of this mansion. Someone who I deeply care for.” He grabs your hand. “More than any friend in my life. When I think about the future, I think of us, together.”
“Together?”
“Maybe we could try something… such as being more than just, friends.” He proposes, a tingle of nervousness in his voice.
“I think we’ve already tried that.” Commenting, you attempt to lighten up the mood.
Chuckling, he rolls his eyes. “Well, yes. But I was hoping we could carry on as romantic partners.”
He was always so deliberate with his words, having a serious undertone to almost everything he said.
“If you mean dating, I think we could give it a try.” You muse.
“So it’s settled, I shall arrange a proper date for the two of us.”
Summary: Two work friends decide to collaborate on Valentine themed crafts, leading to something more.
Pairing: Steven Grant (Moon Knight) x GN!Reader
Word Count: 3,141
Warnings: Alcohol, jokes of death
Author: Barnes (Art also made by Barnes!!)
You were Steven’s regular barista at the museum. Every day he showed up, always wanting a simple latte. On this Friday he came in looking more tired than usual, so you decided to cheer him up.
“Hey, Steven. Just got in a new Moroccan vanilla syrup. Care to take a walk on the wild side?” You asked playfully, with the gentlest smile you could muster.
“Uh, sure. Some flavor wouldn't hurt.” He chuckles lightly.
That kind look in his eyes was ever present when he spoke to you.
You make his drink and set it between the two of you on the counter. You drag over a package of freshly baked cookies, the cellophane wrapper crinkling as you settle it next to his drink.
“Sweet treat on me, for being my vanilla Guinea Pig.” You give him a gracious nod, tapping your fingers on the till to ring him up.
“Ah, no I couldn't. Truly.” He shakes his head, casting his eyes downward.
You notice the blush creeping over the midline of his cheeks as he hands you the payment for the coffee.
“I’m feeling generous today. I insist.” You push the cookies forward so fast they nearly tip off the counter and he catches them. “Ah, looks like you've handled them. I have to give ‘em to you now.” You tease.
He gives you a grateful smile and holds up the pack in his non-coffee hand. “Thanks, I won't forget this.”
Later in the day lunch rush came and went. You handled it with grace. Idly, you wipe down the counters and machines as a familiar curly haired man with soft eyes pops his head into the cafe.
“Steven!” You greet. “Two coffee kind of day, huh?” Abandoning the towel on the counter, you meet him at the till.
“No, actually. Although this morning- ing’s coffee was the highlight of my day. You know, cause we got in a new shipment of Taweret bobble heads, all the springs, they get stretched and uh such.” He trails off in his ramblings chucking nervously and dissociates for a few seconds, eyes trained on the counter.
Mumbling something about how the heads just don't bobble right after that. You lean against the counter and wait for him to gather his thoughts, an amused look on your face.
“Right, sorry. Brain’s a bit foggy today.” He chuckles nervously before continuing, producing a small gift shop bag. “I got this, for you. As a thank you for the cookies. They were scrumptious.”
You take the white paper bag and open it to find a small box. You give Steven a curious look as you open the box. Inside was a glittering gold scarab beetle bead, strung onto a just as brilliant chain.
You gasp. “Oh Steven, this is lovely!” You beam at him, flipping up the counter’s gate, joining Steven opposite the till. “This is worth more than those cookies.”
“Not to worry. I’ve tallied up all the times you gave me something for free, and that one time you got me lunch when mine fell into the janitor’s bucket. And between you and me-” he leans in. “Saving me the embarrassment of fishing it out in front of those secondary school blokes is worth more than anything in that shop.” He nudges your arm gently.
You make an attempt to clasp the necklace, your fingers not as nimble as they should be for your type of hobbies.
It slips from your grasp directly into his palm. “Oh, so sorry. A bit ham-fisted.” You apologize. “You mind?”
He cocks his head to the side squinting a bit as he ponders what you mean. You can see when it clicks, his mouth falls agape slightly, his face flushes, and his eyes widen just a hint. His mouth moves as if it had gone dry.
He clears his throat. “Oh- yes, I mean no. I don't mind. Ahem.”
You turn your back to him. He wipes his palms on his trousers quickly before draping the necklace over your chest. You can feel the heat coming off of his hands when they ghost your skin. He crinkles his eyebrows together as he watches the lobster claw clasp.
“All done.” He lets out a strangled breath, dropping his hands to his sides.
You turn, the sun coming in through the high museum windows shine across your torso. Illuminating your eyes and the scarab sitting just below your shirt collar. You toy with the bead and pay him another thank you.
He nearly trips over his own feet on the way out, not breaking eye contact with you as he walks out the door backwards bidding you adieu.
The following Monday was your first shift for the month of February. You had decided it was time to do your annual decorating for the cafe. As long as it wasn't offensive and wasn't coming out of the museum's pocket, management didn't seem to mind. Security let you in early as long as you slipped them a few treats here and there. It was a symbiotic relationship. The sun has barely begun to peek above the horizon when you set up in the cafe’s lobby.
Pink and red construction paper, scissors, markers, and a stapler sit sprawled out on one of the tables as you make chains and various paper crafts to use as decoration. This kind of work was meditative for you. Even if it meant coming in off the clock, it was something you liked doing. You played quiet music from your phone as you hung decorations. Paper lovehearts with the classic sweetart candy sayings on them. Paper chains accompanying them. You taped hearts to the entrance and windows. Just before opening, you stock the new souvenir plush dolls, a heart character holding a cafe branded mug.
Steven entered the museum rubbing sleep out of his eyes. That's when he spots you, the morning sun gracing your features under your visor. His eye catches the necklace glittering in the light and it puts the biggest smile on his face. Secondarily to you he notices the new decor as he walks up to the cafe. He speaks first.
“Mornin’ innit.” He smiles wide. “Love what you did with the place. All so… festive!” He compliments.
“Mornin’, yeah I’ll tell you what Steven, I am really proud of it.” You nod, admiring your handiwork. “The usual?” You ask.
He answers with a nod, continuing conversation. “Marvelous, really.” He looks at the dangling decorations. “You don't happen to have any extras do you? I’d love to jazz up the giftshop.”
You make his coffee and place it on the counter. He pays. “No, sorry, these were hand made for the store. However, I could assist you in making more?”
Steven smiles softly, fiddling with the strap of his satchel, his eyes downcast and he stumbles over his words. “Uh, I mean, yeah. If you’d like to of course. No pressure.”
He meets you with those puppy-like eyes when you say yes. “My shift ends at noon, how about I swing around then, yeah?”
The end of your shift comes quickly. You excitedly make your way to the gift shop. Steven sees you first and makes an effort to smooth his hair and clothing, nervously looking around for anything unsightly. He notices an unkept stack of papers near the checkout, and unskilfully blocks them with his body, some of the papers blowing onto the floor. He nudges them under the desk with his heels as you enter the Egyptian wing’s gift shop area.
“Uh, hi. Welcome. To the gift shop.” He trails off as you approach.
“Yes, Steven, I've been to the gift shop before.” You nod, turning to look at the aforementioned bobble heads, toying with one of them.
Steven takes this moment to quickly clean up the mess he made before you turn around. He shoots back up. You jump slightly at his sudden appearance.
“Christ.” You clutch your chest playfully. “Careful Steven, you almost gave me a heart attack.”
“Sorry sorry. I'm just excited, honest.” He leads you to the back office where they kept the stock. “This is where we can work with limited interruptions. Donna's gone. She will be missed.”
"Heaven's, did she pass?” You ask, hand over your mouth.
“Unfortunately not.” Steven mutters under his breath.
“What?”
“She’s gone home for the day, migraine.”
You laugh quietly at his antics and spread out the decor making supplies on the table in the centermost of the stone walled room. “Did you want the same decorations as the cafe?”
“Your designs are just brilliant, but I was thinking we infuse it with history.” He gestures in the air with his hands in a picture this motion.
“What was love like in ancient Egypt?” You asked, settling into a chair. Resting your cheek in your palm.
Steven’s eyes lit up like you had just asked the million dollar question and he knew the answer. Your attentive demeanor adds to his eagerness.
“Oh you’ve never seen the likes of this before-” His eyes fall to yours and he pauses for a split second before looking away and continuing. “Love can be finicky, innit?” He wrings his hands together. “Throughout all cultures. I mean it can get brutal. If you're familiar with the legend of Horus.” He looks at you for confirmation.
You had taken a visit to the ancient Egyptian wing many times before and were familiar with the basics. You give him a nod encouraging him on.
“Like many cultures, marriages were arranged but not all of them were loveless.” He adds. “The Artifacts found at the workers' village of Deir el-Medina depict love poems and songs. Turning mundane tasks into metaphors for love.”
“Do you have any examples?” You ask.
“Ive actually been collecting a few translations.” He rummages through his satchel and takes out a note book.
“This one was collected from Papyri at the aforementioned Deir el-Medina.” He reads the excerpt aloud.
“Finally I will drink life from your lips
and wake up from this ever lasting sleep.
The wisdom of the earth in a kiss
and everything else in your eyes.
I kiss her before everyone
that they all may see my love.”
“Wow, that's beautiful.” You nod, thoughtfully. Thinking about the type of love and devotion people from thousands of years ago also experienced.
“I had to do excerpts as some of these get a little racy, yeah? Lots of themes of devotion. Listen to this one.” He flips the page in his notebook and begins to read again.
“Earth trembled as you passed by,
Turning everything sacred as you walked.
And you set your blue eyes upon me for the first time,
speaking at me with the depth of the night
...like a nightingale who doesn't need its wings to fly.
What a blessing it is to be worthy of your look.
I have seen rain on the desert,
and all impossible things coming true.
All of my prayers carry your name.
I wish to be pure so that I can desire you”
You fall into a sort of trance as he reads, your eyes finding that comfortable spot. His voice was so soft and sincere. Like he had felt all of the emotions the author of the note had. Like they spoke through him.
You get an idea.
“Got it. Imagine this.” You fish a sketchbook out of your bag and draw up a model of an aged piece of paper with the poem written down pasted to a love heart.
“One side, the language it was translated from and the opposite side the translation, it could be a fun little interactive. I'll paste it to a love heart so it'll be an educational tool as well as festive!” You pitch excitedly.
“That sounds bloody lovely!”
You and Steven spend the rest of his work day making decorations and periodically hanging them, while he helps the occasional patron. By quitting time the two of you were thoroughly pleased with your hard work. The gift shop was festive and educational, something Steven thought was really important.
When he walked you to your car, you invited him over to your flat for dinner. You had never cooked vegan before that night, but tried your hardest for Steven. It was delicious by all means. He brought a bottle of wine. You really get to know each other. You learn of his increasingly concerning sleep routines. He learns about your habitual teeth grinding. A friendship in full bloom. Something else, budding.
Then comes February 14th. Valentine’s day. Neither you nor Steven worked that weekend. You knew he’d be over, he had no date to speak of. Neither did you. You spent the bulk of the day baking heart shaped cookies and attempting a vegan version of a recipe in your old family cookbook.
Your heart leaps into your throat as you set down the needle on your favorite jazz record. A knock is heard at the door. You questioned why you felt suddenly nervous. You and Steven regularly had dinner together. Tonight was no different than any other night really. Just a bit more colorful. You took a deep breath as you peered through the peephole.
Standing there, his hair fixed. A blue jumper. Flowers and a heart shaped box in hand. Steven Grant stood there with a flush accompanying the smile on his face. You open the door, inviting him in.
“Looking sharp.” You chuckle, cheeks hot at the fact that you didn't really dress up for the occasion.
He hands you the bouquet of roses. Looking closer now you can see they aren't real roses but the handmade rolled fabric kind. Your chest immediately feels tight, the work he must've put in.
“Steven did you?”
“Yep, got myself a couple burns, but it was worth it.” Quickly, he corrects himself. “Not that you weren't an excellent teacher, I'm just a tad clumsy with the glue gun.” He chuckles, running his fingers along his jaw nervously. “But you like it? I made a bit of an educated guess on the color. I'm not sure if you like that color but I saw it was your phone backgrou-”
“Yes, I love it!” You interrupt pulling him in for a hug.
He hugs you back, box still in hand. This hug was longer than a usual hug between the two of you. Not by more than a fraction of a second but it felt heavy. Not in a bad way, but emotionally charged. He unintentionally melts at your touch.
Bringing the box back in front of him, addressing the heart shaped elephant in the room. “Here, open it.” He grins, his lips twitching as he smiles, clearly shaken by nerves.
Carefully you open the box, you let out a breath and smile wide. A mixed wave of relief and disappointment wash over you. Inside the box were two museum ID’s labeled “Festivity Director” with your respective faces on them.
“Had those printed yesterday.” He cheeses. “Now we are officially recognized in our very important roles.”
Earlier in the month you had dubbed your duo, jokingly, the festivity directors. Promising Steven you would get together every holiday and breathe some life into the museum.
“There’s more, keep digging.” He encourages.
Under the badges were two vouchers for an exclusive dinner and show performance happening during the Lunar New Year fest in the West-end. Your eyes light up, you had always wanted to experience the festival but never wanted to go alone. It was a dream come true.
“You had mentioned wanting to go, so I mentioned it to Kevin in ceramics and it turns out his uncle owns a restaurant on that street. Small world, eh?” Steven crosses his arms, pleased with himself.
“Steven, I wow, I don't know what to say. Thank you! These gifts were so heartfelt. I'm sorry I didn't buy you anything!” You hold the contents of the box close to your heart.
“All I really wanted was your time but by the smells of it, you have the perfect repayment simmering away on the stove.” He quips, hurrying to the kitchen.
Lifting the pot lid, he takes in the scent of the steam billowing out of it. “I’ll tell you what, I haven't eaten this good in ages.”
You appear at his side, to offer him a sample spoonful. You blew on the simmering soup and held it out, your hand cupped under to catch spills. Gingerly he took the spoonful with a soft chuckle. Evenings like this with Steven were your most cherished as of late. He looked at you in a way that made your chest feel warm. Made you feel seen and appreciated.
You were finally close enough to him to give a proper look. Not just the info dumping gift shop clerk, but as the man whose passion and dedication outweigh the most profound artists you could think of. The man who was soft spoken but held the roar of a thousand fires above his throat.
He hummed with satisfaction, screwing his eyes shut, savoring the flavor with a nod. “Yep, that’s really nice. You, my dear, have out done yourself, yet again.”
When he opens his eyes, they lock with yours. An invisible string drawing the two of you together. The steam from the pot makes the immediate vicinity a few degrees hotter.
You blush, turning your face away. His hand finds your chin, urging you to just face him again, It’s your decision, but it was ultimately unanimous. You turned, leaning in, capturing his lips with yours. He melted into you, pulling you close.
The kiss was gentle, his lips were soft, as if he put on chapstick a few minutes ago. The thought was endearing, causing you to smile. You feel the corner of his lips raise before you open your eyes and see that he was absolutely beaming. A look you only see when he was deep in the lore of ancient Egypt. A passion you'd only believed true in ancient myths and fables. Had entered your life through Steven Grant.
Finally I will drink life from your lips
and wake up from this ever lasting sleep.
The wisdom of the earth in a kiss
and everything else in your eyes.
I kiss her before everyone
that they all may see my love.
And when her lips are pressed to mine
I am made drunk and need not wine.
When we kiss, and her warm lips half open,
I fly cloud-high without beer!
His kisses on my lips, my breast, my hair…
…Come! Come! Come! And kiss me when I die,
For life, compelling life, is in thy breath;
And at that kiss, though in the tomb I lie,
I will arise and break the bands of Death.
Summary: A new work friend at the Watchtower asks you out for a carnival themed valentine date
Pairing: Robert “Bob” Reynolds (Sentry) x GN!Reader
Word Count: 4,066
Warnings: None
Author: Howlett
The blaring sounds of your alarm awoke you from your sleep. You really wanted to get up and get out of bed, but since you could not fall asleep till about 4am, you decided that you could use at least five more minutes wrapped in your warm duvet. So, you snoozed the alarm. However, unknowingly to you, you pressed the ‘stop’ button, signaling to your phone that you will not need another alarm. Resting your eyes, you swore it had only been ten minutes at most. Realizing you were going to wake up a little too late, you jolted out of bed and reached for your phone. Your face contorted in horror as the time on your phone read 7:25am, a lot later than you thought. There was absolutely no way you could get ready with enough time to commute.
Frantically, you threw yourself out of bed and got ready as fast as you could while constantly eyeing the time. A great start to a day would not be one like this, chaotic was an understatement. Most beauty products you used ended up out of place and some without their caps properly screwed on. The constant slamming of cabinet doors and drawers rang through your ears as there was no time for a gentle closing. You thanked every lucky star that you made an effort to pack your things the night before.
Of course, there was no way in hell you made it out the door on time, but leaving at 7:58am was still a record. Trying to make light of the situation, you think to yourself, maybe the commute won’t be so bad this morning?
Undoubtedly, your ETA was scheduled for 8:45am. This is definitely was not your morning, but maybe your boss would be understanding? That’s when recklessly, while at a red light, you decided to send a quick text informing her of your sudden lateness. If there was any luck left on your plate today, maybe she wouldn’t fire you. The drive was the most negligent you had ever been. Swerving in and out of lanes, taking red lights when you knew there was no camera or car approaching, and even riding on the shoulder of the highway a couple of times.
Surprisingly, you made it six minutes earlier than you expected. Feeling a little proud of yourself, you threw your car into the first available parking spot, not checking if you were in the lines. Spilling out of your car, you almost forgot to turn off the engine, as you ran to the nearest elevator that would take you down to the floor level. While the elevator was descending, you decided to check if Mrs. Klein, your boss, had responded. To your dismay, she did.
If you don’t get her ASAP your tardiness will be documented, and HR will have to speak with you on the matter.
Groaning, you watch as the floors tick by ever so slowly. Maybe she didn’t mean it? I mean, I’ve only been late one time before this, she has to cut me some slack!
Finally, the elevator stopped and the doors dinged open, all you had to do was cross the street and reach those entrance doors. Checking for a brief moment, you ran across the road in hopes that not a single car wasn’t paying attention. Some of them had to brake, which resulted in their horns honking, signaling their anger. But you didn’t care, you just needed to get to work. Without paying attention, you burst through the entrance and did not realize that the coffee mug you gripped so tightly had not been closed properly. Once you pushed open the doors, your mug titled ever so slightly, spilling most of the contents onto your shirt.
Great, just wonderful! You swipe your badge in past the turnstile gate and stop at the front desk where Mrs. Klein was waiting.
“Well, it’s about time you showed up.” Her shrill voice boomed through the whole lobby.
“I am so sorry Mrs. Klein, with this schedule change it was difficult for me to adjust given one weekend.” You plead your case, trying to cover the coffee stain on your uniform button up with your jacket.
Groaning, she replied. “Just don’t let it happen again.” She walked away from the desk, presumably to head to the back area where she was usually stationed.
Sighing, you walk over to the lobby desk, and set your things down. Unbeknownst to you, a bystander witnessed the whole thing. Sitting down, you log into your email as a man approaches you.
“Good morning, are you alright?” Your head shot up as the man continued. “I saw you running from the parking garage and, I think your boss? Yelling at you… I just want to make sure you’re alright.”
You felt your cheeks heat up out of embarrassment. The man before you stood tall, with light brown short wavy hair. He was dressed casually, a simple red pullover with navy jeans and gym shoes. Examining his demeanor, he appeared meek and was fidgeting with his thumbs as he spoke.
“Yeah, I think I'll live.” Shrugging, you force out a chuckle.
“I saw you spilled your coffee, I have some napkins if you want some.” Reaching for his pocket, he pulled a wad of napkins branded with the Chipotle logo and slogan.
Handing them to you, a smile peered on your lips. “Thank you, I really appreciate that.”
He smiled in return as you tried your best to remove the liquids from your top.
“Thankfully our uniforms are black.” You comment.
Not thinking much about his words, he responded. “Would you like another?”
Halting your actions, you make eye contact with the mysterious man, a quizzical expression plastered on your face. “Another what?”
“Oh- um, another coffee." Breaking eye contact, he rambled on. “If that’s something you want of course, or-or maybe some more napkins maybe? Or I could see if there is maybe some extra shirts laying around-”
Finding his ramblings hard to watch, you decided to save him from himself. “I would love another coffee, if it’s no trouble.”
Surprised, his demeanor switched. “It’s not trouble at all! I was just heading to a coffee shop myself when I saw you running towards the building… I was concerned...”
Feeling embarrassed, you let out a forced laugh. “Yup, I just overslept.” You continue to work on the stain.
“First day?” He questions, placing his hands in his pocket.
“Oh no, I’ve been working here for years.” You expressed, sounding dull as you realized how long you’ve wasted your time here.
“Strange, how have I never seen you around before?” Questioning, he tilted his head.
Realizing that the stain will never let up, you drop your hands and reply. “I used to work the graveyard shift, but Mrs. Klein thought it would be a great idea to switch me to the opening shift.” Crossing one arm across your chest and moving the other hand to pinch your nose, you sighed. “That’s why you saw me running towards the building like a maniac.”
Your response warranted him a thoughtful hum.
Now, you felt it was your turn to ask the questions. You couldn’t help but laugh as you thought more on the concern you had.
“Why do you have so many napkins in your pocket?”
This caught him off guard as he was not ready for such a tough question. Rubbing the back of his neck, he replies. “For emergencies of course.”
A hearty chuckle fell from your lips. “What’s your name?”
Astonished you would ask such a question, he responded. “Bob… Yours?”
Giving him your name, he smiles and compliments on how admirable it is.
From there, the beginning of a refined friendship begins. Since the new schedule, you’ve seen Bob just about everyday. Usually just a few minutes after your shift would begin, he would stop by for a morning chat and always ask if you wanted a coffee. At times he would even joke about the first day you met and that coffee stained blouse.
This went on for a few months, as your friendship grew so did the little crush that you developed. It had been a while since you had gained a new friendship, and even relatively longer since you last had a liking towards someone. This made for inner conflict. You never knew if it was weird to think of a friend in that way, but on the other hand, you thought about how many friendships blossom into romantic relationships.
The turmoil always resulted in you being at a constant battle with yourself, never knowing if you should cross that line and try something new. It wasn’t easy when the signals Bob would give were mixed, so to speak. On occasion, you would think he was head over heels for you. But at other times, you would think quite the opposite, that he only saw you as a friend. Ironically, Bob held the same sentiments. Never knowing what you felt, and if he should take the next steps.
Due to the dreadful start of February, love was in the air. Every retailer displayed Valentine’s day merchandise and decor, while restaurants reminded those to not forget to make reservations ahead of time. Constantly reminding the both of you of the loneliness you endured the past few celebrations on the day of love.
Ever since your new friendship, Bob’s roommates had thoughts. They made them very clear with the constant antagonizing comments. Day in and day out they would never fail to tease him. They all knew he had an attraction towards you, it was fairly obvious. So, once the new month rolled around, they stopped with the taunting and encouraged him.
They actually supported his feelings, giving him some useful tips on ways to ask you out. Even with the assistance, he was still having doubts and was riddled with nerves. It wasn’t until Bucky told him a few words, that he decided to act on his fondness. Those words being– “You aren’t going to do it anyway." Taking considerable offense, Bob decided then and there that he would prove Bucky wrong.
So, off he went to his local Walgreens, finding a box of chocolates and red roses. Since the 14th was approaching, he decided that very day he would bite the bullet. At around noon, you saw Bob leave the building, almost darting past you. Not thinking too much about the strangeness of the situation, you went back to work. A few moments later, he had returned, attempting to hold a plastic bag behind his torso.
“Hey, are you good?” You asked, referencing what you saw earlier, also taking note of the bag.
“I’m good. How are you?" He replied blankly, his face was pale white, accompanied by a few strands of sweat.
“Fine… Are you alright?” Pointing out the obvious, you held a puzzled expression.
“Yup, just fine!” He answered a little too quickly, holding a fake smile.
Baffled by his bizarre behavior, you decided to leave him to his vices. “Okay… well if you don’t need anything I guess I’ll just go back to-”
“Are you busy this Saturday?” Cutting you off, he spoke swiftly.
Pondering, you reply. “No, I don’t think so, why?”
It was as if Bob had just chewed a bag of cotton, while halting in time. He could feel himself go woozy, unsteady, almost losing his balance.
“Uh…” He trailed off as his mind wandered. Thinking of all the bad, letting those anxious thoughts sink in. He then thought back to the conversation with his good ol’ friend James from just a few hours ago, realizing he needed to pull himself together. Taking a deep breath, he composed himself. Moving the bag from his back, he removed the items as he popped the question.
“Would you like to go on a date with me and be my valentine?” Sweating bullets, he felt as if was going to faint.
Shocked, you stood up, hands covering your mouth. “Oh my- of course!”
Grabbing the gifts, the both of you held a massive smile. The thousand pound weight had been lifted off Bob’s chest. Without much thought, you leaned over the desk and pulled Bob into a tight embrace. Awestruck, he immediately returned the action, holding you just as tight.
The rest of the week had gone by in the blink of an eye. Saturday night had finally rolled around. Now, here you are, standing in your living room all dolled up waiting anxiously. The two of you decided to visit the carnival in town that was just about a twenty minute walk away for your place. A charming setting to have a first date. A chime from your phone caused your heart to skip a beat, Bob informed you of his arrival. Nervously, you latch up your door and head outside. Once every lock had been turned, he pulled you in for a hug.
“You look lovely.” He stated, which earned him a thank you and a blush.
Pulling you off the hug, you take note of his outfit. You observed that he was wearing something rather nice. He wore a dark gray button-up that looked a little too big on him, tucked into a pair of black chinos which was held up with a simple silver buckled belt, accompanied with a pair of converse.
“As do you.” You replied.
“These are for you.” Holding out a nervous hand, he gifted you a red sealed envelope and a mysterious silver bowed box.
A wave of gratitude washed over you. “Bob! You didn’t have to.”
“I just thought I should show my appreciation of you.” He nervously fiddled with his thumbs.
“I appreciate that.” Feeling confident, you gave him a peck on his cheek.
As he stood astounded, you questioned him. “What’s in the box?”
You start to unwrap the bow, eager to unveil its content. “I would actually like it if you could wait till later to open it.”
Upholding his wish, you halt your actions. “Sure thing.”
“Shall we take our leave?” He asked, extending his hand for you to take.
“Of course.” Taking his hands, you intertwine your fingers with his as you begin the walk.
Once the two of you were just a few blocks out, you could hear the distant sound of joyous screams and cheesy pop music. As you got closer, you could smell the warm, sweet, blend of dough and oil. It’s been a while since you’ve had a funnel cake. Approaching the gates the array of bright neon colors overtook your view as you surveyed just how massive this fair was.
“Wow, I can’t remember the last time I was at a carnival.” You pondered, wondering where to go first.
“I have never been to one before.” He stated, a feeling of melancholy overtook him.
You knew all about the horrors of Bob’s childhood, so you try to make light of the situation.
“Well, let’s make up for that lost time. What’s something you’ve always wanted to do at a place like this?”
Changing his expression, he contemplated. “Well, I have always wanted to play that game where you throw darts to pop balloons…”
“I love that game! Too bad I’m bad at it.” Wrapping your arm around his, you take the lead. “Let’s find it!”
Seemingly pulling him out of his sorrowful state, he lightened up as you seemed eager to explore the place.
The fair was packed like a can of sardines. Given that it was Valentine’s Day, there was an incomprehensible number of couples ranging in age wandering around. Weaving through moody teenagers and old married couples, you eventually found the game stand. The both of you approached it as you saw there was no line.
The man attending it was rather disheveled. He wore a dirty worn red shirt with the name and logo of the carnival on it, it had a few holes spread throughout it. The blue jeans he had on were in the same condition. A toothpick hung in between his lips that sat on his gruff face. Laying on top of his head was a dark gray plaid flat cap, surprisingly, the condition of it was pristine.
“Look at the lovely couple! You suckers looking to lose?” He asked, waving around the toothpick in his hand.
“Oh I highly doubt we will be losing tonight sir.” Bob chimed in.
You chuckled at the interaction and Bob’s confidence. Pulling him closer, you whisper in his ear.
“You know these people are crooks right? They rig the games so you can’t win!”
Laughing, he whispered back. “You think I don’t know that?”
Reaching for his pocket, Bob pulls out his wallet.
“What do I need to win that teddy bear?” Off to the corner hung a low quality, overly large brown teddy bear holding a pink heart in its hands.
The man immediately laughed, he even gave his knee a hearty smack. “You got some confidence son!” Catching his breath, he answered. “You’ll need to clear out this entire rack if you want that puppy.” He gestured to the array of colorful balloons all spread out amongst the wall. There had to be at least thirty.
“All of them?” Bob questioned, asking as if he stood a chance.
The man doubled down. “All of them.”
Shrugging, Bob flipped open his wallet. “How much is enough darts to clear the rack?”
Chuckling, the man replied. “Thirty bucks.”
Appalled by the man and his prices, you urge Bob to leave. “Hey, let’s check out another stand.”
He denied your requests as he pulled out some bills. “Nonsense, I’m going to win you that bear.”
Rolling your eyes, you admired his words, but you knew he would be disappointed shortly.
Bob handed over the thirty dollars as the man gave him a small bucket of darts.
Stepping off to the side, the man counts his money amusingly. “You may begin.”
Releasing Bob arm, you almost wanted to look away as he took the first throw. To yours and the man's surprise, it actually landed. Then he threw another, and another, and another, each one of them exploding the balloon it made contact with. He did not miss a single one.
The man became distressed as you were shocked. “Hey you can’t- you’re cheating!”
Bob paid no mind to the man as he kept tossing the darts effortlessly until the very last one popped.
“I think I’ll be taking my prize now.” Bob grinned, pleased with his performance.
“Absoulety not! You cheated!” Like a child, he stomped his foot.
Entertained, you spoke. “If you deny him the prize he so rightfully won, I’ll be sure to inform your manager.”
Defeated, the man grabbed a step stool as he undid the bear from its hook, cussing under his breath.
“Take it, you crooks!” He nearly threw the bear at Bob. “I never want to see you two at my stall again!”
Just like that, the two of you scurried off, afraid the man might take physical action. Snickering, you pulled Bob to the side.
“Bob, that was amazing! I mean, you hit every balloon! How are you so good at this?”
Blushing, he replied. “It’s actually a hobby of mine.” He joked. “You know, throwing darts at balloons.”
You couldn't help but giggle at his response.
“Anyways, I hope you have room for this bear.”
For the rest of the night, Bob kept approaching stalls, winning each one with ease. No matter the activity, he seemed to have been a master of the craft. Anything from ring toss to a strength test, no game stood unwon. He had to stop playing at a certain point as both of your hands had no room for anymore stuffed animals and inflatable toys.
Eventually, the two of you stopped at a funnel cake truck. Bob had never had one before, so you were sure to load it with every topping the menu had to offer. Once it was ready, you nearly regretted the amount of garnish you selected as it was almost impossible to get to the cake itself with whimsy plastic forks. Nonetheless, it was still fun sharing the dessert while you talked about the reactions of each stall owner.
Still amazed, you had to know. “Okay, you have to tell me your strategy! How did you win all those games?”
Swallowing his bite of pure sugar, he thought for a second before he replied. “I’m what some people might call a superhero.”
All night, he had been cracking jokes, you assumed this was another one of his.
“Okay, but really.” You leaned in and whispered. “What’s your secret?”
“Really! I took super soldier serum.” He toyed with the toothdecaying treat, as if his response was normal.
Speechless, you thought more on the matter. It made so much sense now. You never got to learn what Bob’s career was to warrant a job at the Watchtower. When you first talked about it, you said he looked like he worked in the Information Technology department as a joke, and he ran with it. Always saying he was just some average IT repair guy. Which you could never tell if he was lying or not, but nonetheless, you didn’t dwell on the matter. You thought, eventually he would tell you the truth, and that so happened to be today, right now.
“Super soldier serum huh? How did that happen?” Questioning his past endeavors, you take a hefty bite.
“It’s a long story, maybe for another time.” Chuckling, he attempts to scoop up the melting ice cream.
“Whenever you’re ready to tell me, super soldier.” Grinning, you joke, knowing you bagged someone such as he.
“I prefer the Sentry.” He grins back, playing into your antics.
“Oh excuse me, Sentry.”
The two of you continued to humor each other until the workers had come to inform you they were closing. You didn’t realize how long the two of you had sat chatting with a demolished plate in between the two of you. Reluctantly, you begin the walk back to your apartment, both of you making attempts to slow the journey down.
The night had been so much fun, you didn’t want it to end. Unfortunately, you found yourselves standing just at the stoop of your door. You decided to let him into your place so he could drop off some of the prizes. He stood at your door, leaning against the frame.
“Well, I had a really great time.” You mention, looking up at him.
“As did I.” Awkwardly, he started rubbing his hands together. “Um- could I give you a hug?”
You weren’t sure why he was asking, he had done so without a problem earlier.
“Of course!”
Wrapping both arms around him, your nose picks up on his cologne. It was a peculiar scent, like worn pages in a book and firewood, you loved it. Both his hands wrapped around your waist as he found his face buried in your shoulder.
Pulling away, you make a comment. “We should do this again sometime.” He held you there, not wanting to pull away, staring deep into your eyes with a loving look. “Maybe not a carnival again, I don’t think I’ll have the space for more prizes.”
The two of you laugh as he attempts his next move. With that anxiety washing over him, he doesn’t know if he can do it.
“Uh- you don’t have to say yes or feel obligated, but…” His freeze response went into action as he could not find the words.
“What is it?” You ask, not sure of his request.
“Um- I uh-” Now he was staring at your lips and you got the hint.
Without another word, you leaned in. The feeling of his slightly chapped lips overtook yours, he was gentle and shy. He was stunned and unsure of himself, but he knew he didn’t want this moment to end. Pulling away, you could see the dazed expression his face held, he was almost as red as a tomato.
“Thanks for tonight.” You begin to slowly close the door.
“Y-yeah, I should be thanking you really.”
“Why is that?”
“Well, you allowed me to take you out and embarrass some carnival workers.”
Summary: When a melting college dad knocks on your door looking to get buzzed into the apartment, you use the time before his daughter gets in to show him some Midwestern Hospitality.
Pairing: Joel Miller x AFAB!Reader
Word Count: 4,769
Warnings: Minors please do not interact, 18+ content below | Stranger sex, Unprotected P in V, Implied Age-gap, choking, breath-play, Doggy, Vulgar language
Author: Barnes
Author Notes: Hey y'all I think I cooked with this one. I wrote half of it months ago and when i reread it I made myself blush, so if that speaks for how filthy it is, you're welcome. So willing to make a part II where he comes back. LMK what you like, dislike, always open to some good ol crit. Need this old man bad. ~ Barnes 🚬🗿
You sink into the couch in your apartment’s living room, clad in a thin tank top and loose cotton shorts. Skin sticking slightly to the cushions despite the temperate cool of the room. The air conditioning purrs steadily in the background, a low comforting hum that's done its best to stave off the sweltering heat outside. It's nearly twenty degrees cooler here than it is on the scorching asphalt outside your walls, but with the sun pouring in through the wide glass window and front door, it still hovers around a stubborn eighty-four degrees.
Just as you're beginning to melt further into the couch, a bead of sweat caresses the back of your neck, eyes falling closed, the doorbell rings suddenly, jarring the silence in the room. You sigh dragging yourself upright, peeling your slightly damp and warm skin from the cushions with a soft unpleasant unsticking sound. The air feels thick, clinging to you as you shuffle towards the door.
Through the glare of the sunlight on the glass you spot a man standing outside, tall, broad, unmoving. His brow knit tightly, crow’s feet creasing as he squints in the sun. Worn jeans, and a faded shirt stretched across the broad expanse of his solid frame. His hair was messy, salt and pepper, slick and stuck to his forehead with sweat. He doesn't ring the bell again, just waits for you to answer, a phone in his hand.
You open the door halfway peeking your head out, shielding the sun from your eyes with the back of your hand, giving him a quick. “Hi, how can I help you?”
“Hey, uh hi, I’m Joel. Sorry to bother you.” He says voice low and rough, thick with a Texan drawl and a thread of irritation he's trying to keep in check.
He holds up the phone tapping the screen.
“My daughter lives in the building, apartment six, Miller, Sarah Miller. Been tryin to get her on this damn phone for twenty minutes. Would you be so kind and just buzz me I-”
His sentence cuts off as a girl’s voice crackles through his phone speaker. “Hey dad, sorry I'm not home right now, I’ll be back in an hour or so, already on the road.”
Joel sighs, slow and exasperated, thumb already moving to hang up the call “Course she picks up now.” He mutters, rubbing the back of his neck. He looks back at you hanging up his phone, his expression apologetic. “Sorry. Didn’t mean to trouble you. I'll just go wait in my truck. Have a good one.”
He turns with a curt nod, but you glance past him, the shimmer of the heat reflecting off the hood of his pickup, practically vibrating. One hundred and four. No breeze. You could cook an egg on the asphalt.
You stop him.
“You're not sitting in your truck in this heat. No offense but I doubt your AC works.” You say flatly, already holding the door open wider. “Come on in. AC’s not the best but it's something.”
Joel turns, hesitating for a second, “Nah,” he says, voice rough edged. “Anybody teach you stranger danger, kid? You don't need to be lettin folks in your place. I’d give my daughter the same advice.”
He gives you a pointed look. “Kindness ‘ll get you hurt if you're not careful.”
You cross your arms, unmoved. “So will heatstroke, and I don't think that’s something someone at your age could power through.”
You notice the greys in his hair and beard, the slight limp in his gait, the thick pads of his hands, and scarred knuckles from a lifetime of physical labor.
He huffs a short laugh through his nose. Scratching the back of his neck again, he glances toward your door then back to his truck, as if seriously considering walking back to the brand-hot seat buckles and roasting leather.
“Look,” you say, tilting your head, “you're not some creep lurking in the bushes. I heard your daughter over the phone. You're just waiting, and I'm not gonna be the reason you end up roasting in the cab of that bucket of bolts.”
Joel sighs, letting his shoulder slump forward for a second, the burning heat of the sun singeing his skin, “Alright,” he mutters. “But only for a little, ain't fixin’ to intrude.”
Joel steps cautiously into the apartment, his boots heavy on the living room floor. He glances down at the carpet, then back up at you, brows raised.
“You want me to take these off?’ He asks, nodding towards his boots.
“Yeah, please.” You say, already heading towards the connected kitchen. “Carpet’s a pain to get cleaned.”
He grunts an understanding sound, kneeling stiffly to unlace them, setting them neatly next to your shoe rack.
“You want something to drink?” You call over your shoulder. “Water, Lemonade?”
You hear the faint thud of boots hitting the floor as he straightens up. “Water’s fine, don't wanna take advant-”
“Too late,” you interrupt with a smirk. “You're already inside.”
When you return with the glass, he's standing just a step from the couch, looking more reluctant than welcomed.
“You know, you've got a weird way of showing hospitality, little lady.” He says as you hand him the drink. He gives you a dry look. “You always this trusting (and abrasive), or am I just lucky?”
You shrug, a slight smile playing on your lips. “It’s midwestern hospitality, I guess. My mom would feed any stray as long as it knocked first and asked nicely.“ You shoot him a quick wink.
That earns you a small chuckle as he finally eases down on the couch carefully. Looking as if he was afraid to break it. You sit next to him, two cushion lengths away, one leg tucked under the other, the fabric of your shorts riding slightly higher than intended. The small talk begins. Easy stuff. Your name. Where he's from, how long his daughter's lived here, what she majors in at the local university, and most of all what the hell this heatwave thinks it's doing.
As the conversation continues to flow, you catch yourself watching him, like really watching him. The way his forearm flexes when he sets his glass down onto your coffee table. His tanned skin, worn muscle dancing under faded scars. Once again you note the scruff lining his jaw, streaked with grey, framing a mouth far too nice for someone who frowns so much. His voice, slow and deep, hums low in your ears even when you aren't focusing on the words.
As he spoke, you could have sworn he was checking you out too. He glances at you mid sentence, hesitating for a second. You notice his gaze drops just briefly as you stretch your legs out across the cushion. His eyes linger a bit too long on the curve of your thigh, and the soft sheen of your skin in the warm light.
He blinks, then shifts in his seat, clearing his throat softly. You don't say anything, neither does he.
You stretch your legs a little farther across the couch, the fabric of your shorts inching up with the movement. As the AC hums lazily, not doing much against the slow crawl of the afternoon heat, but it’s enough to keep things tolerable.
Joel sits just off to the side, leaned forward with his forearms on his knees, water glass resting between his hands. His shoulders are still a little damp from the walk in, and his shirt clings in spots to the shape of him, solid, and worn in.
You catch the faint strip of pale skin on his ring finger when he lifts the glass.
“You married?” You ask, voice casual, like you’re tossing the question out just to pass the time.
Joel glances at his hand, then back at you. “Was.”
A pause. Then softer, “She passed.”
You nod slowly, eyes dropping to your glass. “I’m sorry.”
He shrugs, an air of acceptance about him. “Been a long time, took me a while to finally take it off.”
The room settles into a quiet beat, not awkward, just the two of you. You glance at his hand again, at the faint ring of skin that’s still clinging to memory.
“That tanline’s stubborn,” you murmur.
Joel gives a short, wry laugh. “Yeah. Guess it stuck around longer than she did.”
You look at him. There’s humour in the way he says it. The kind of jokes only allowed after the test of time.
“You don’t really seem like someone who stays alone for long.” You say, lips curling slightly.
He raises a brow. “No?”
You shrug again, slower this time. “You’ve got that quiet, capable thing going on. That usually comes with someone waiting at home.”
Joel leans back a little, arm stretching out along the back of the couch. His fingers brush the cushion behind your shoulders, not close enough to touch but not far either. His gaze lingers on your face, then drifts lower, slowly, deliberately.
“And here I thought I was just drippin’ sweat and takin’ up space.” He says, voice lower now, quiet and dry.
Your eyes flick up to meet his, and the air between you tightens slightly. The fan clicks softly overhead, the only thing moving in the room.
“You clean up alright.” You say, smirking at him. “Not bad for someone who almost melted in the parking lot.”
He watches you for a moment longer, then his eyes slide downward, taking in the curve of your thigh where your skin catches the sun, the slow shift of your chest as you breathe. His tongue darts out, catching on his bottom lip.
“I try, although the heat's got me off my A game.” He murmurs, but his voice has a rougher edge now, clearly a bit flustered from the rare event of a compliment.
You tilt your head slightly, a smile tugging at your mouth. “You still hot?”
His eyes meet yours again, holding. Steady. Heavy. He pauses, gaze flicking to your lips, then lower again, this time bolder, lingering on the bare skin of your chest, the curve of your waist beneath your tank.
“Yeah,” he says, voice raspier now. “A little.”
The silence that follows stretches out like a pulled thread. Neither of you move, but everything feels closer. Tighter.
You can hear the shift of his breath, the weight of his eyes sunk into your skin like memory foam, your own pulse starting to drum beneath your hot flesh.
Joel doesn’t dare to take his eyes off of you. Both your hearts are beginning to race now. You feel yours hammering steadily and growing faster.
Joel’s jaw tenses slightly, a subtle shift in his throat as he swallows. His grip tightens slightly around the water glass, though it hasn’t moved in minutes.
You’re aware of every inch between you.
And then you move.
Without even thinking, you shift forward and slip right into his lap, knees bracketing his thighs. It’s smooth, easy, like you’ve done it before, like this was always the way. Your hands find his shoulders, loosely resting there, they were taught like a piano wire.
Joel’s breath catches, a sharp inhale through his nose. His hand practically tosses the glass on the table then goes instinctively to your hips, not pulling you in but not pushing you away either. Just holding you, grounding himself.
He blinks once, slowly. “You sure?” he asks, voice low and rough, edged with restraint that’s barely holding. The growing bulge in his jeans presses against you impatiently.
You nod, your fingertips grazing the back of his neck, your chest brushing his. “Yeah.” You say softly, eyes fixed on him. “You?”
His hands tighten, finally drawing you in that extra inch. He groans inwardly, his voice coming through in a murmur, heavy and thick.
“I was tryin’ real hard to be a gentleman.” He says, breath warm against your cheek, “but you’re not makin’ it easy.”
You feel his restrained, hardening cock jump, throbbing almost painfully. The sensation sent a wave of excitement through your body, hips stuttering slightly in response to his words.
You smile, lips just shy of his. “I’m not trying to.”
He can't resist. Now that you were closer he could smell the way your perfume mixes with your natural scent. He could just devour you.
His body shifts into gear. Catching your lips, his facial hair rough against your skin.
You kiss him back hungrily, his lips feel soft, becoming damp as you run your tongue along them briefly, his coming to meet yours. They move in tandem, trading positions as you melted into him. You couldn't help but groan as he nipped at your bottom lip.
His hands find the hills of your ass, giving it a rough squeeze. He pulls your hips down against him, rocking you back and forth.
The seam of his jeans grind into your wanting cunt, the thin fabric of your shorts failing to contain how deliciously wet you are. Your breath catches as your moan reverberates in his mouth.
His large hands rub up and down your thighs, as you move together. He lets out a groan, his throat vibrating as his fingers dance around the dampened edge of your bottoms.
Your hands find his hair, nails dragging against his scalp, as you revel in the feeling of his hard cock beneath you. You wish you could see it, it felt big, nice and solid.
As if he read your mind, he halts your movements, sliding you up his knees a bit, undoing his belt, the buckle making a frantic metallic clinking as he throws it to the side, letting it hang against his hip.
You pant slightly, as you break apart, missing the feeling of his lips. You angle your head down, biting your lip as your eyes land on his bulge.
You help, your hands gently cupping the denim wrapped print, before taking down the zipper.
He sighs, his cock jumping, it strains against his boxers, a dark spot forming at the tip where pre-cum begins to leak through the fabric.
You bend forward, catching his lips once more. His hand cupping your face, as he guides yours across his lap.
Your hand wraps around his clothed cock, your fingers unable to meet around the circumference. A slow and methodical swipe of your thumb over the wet fabric elicits a low rumbling moan from Joel.
You stroke slowly, your lips moving against him at the same pace. You could feel the thrum of your own heartbeat between your legs, pussy aching from hearing the sounds he makes.
His shirt rode up exposing a salt and pepper happy trail leading to exactly where his body yearned for you.
Your fingers breach the fly of his boxers, the hard flesh of his cock smooth, save for the hair that enveloped the top of his cock and a few stray veins. You pull it through the fabric, springing it free.
Breaking the kiss you insert a few fingers into his mouth, before dropping a string of spit on your wet fingers.
“Dirty girl.” Joel growls.
Although, you want desperately to keep your eyes trained on how it jumped and throbbed against your palm. Without hesitation you lock eyes with the man underneath you, drinking in the vulnerability in his eyes just before they rolled to the back of his skull. He bucked into your hand, his cock leaking as you tease it.
His hand fisted into your hair, pulling forward slightly. You moan as he reconnects the kiss, his teeth tugging your bottom.
“Shit, Honey.” He hissed as you drag your thumb over the tip continuously, smearing around the pre-cum.
He reaches his hand into the back of your shorts gripping your asscheek. The force spreads your pussy slightly. Goosebumps erupting over your flesh, you whimper into his mouth.
He lets out a growl, swiftly laying your back. Your hand still pumped his cock as he hovered above you. He grabbed your wrist, pining one then the other above your head with one hand. The weight of his body pressed your body into the couch beneath you, your own body heat reflecting back through the worn leather.
His knees knocked your legs wider as he settled his hips against yours. His hard cock breaching the soaked fabric of your shorts. No underwear, it's almost like you were ready for a handsome stranger to stuff you full of cock. His slick tip smears around your juices. You could feel the heartbeat in his cock, each throb reminds you of the hot blood coursing through his veins.
It took all of his willpower not to sink into you immediately. Slowly, he dragged it back and forth through your folds eliciting a whimper over the sound of soaked pussy. He desperately needed to hear more.
A rough growl leaves his mouth as he drags down the top of your tanktop with his teeth, springing your breasts free. Burying his face in your chest he just barely slips in the tip. You gasp, feeling how he begins to stretch you open.
“C'mon Darlin’. Wanna hear ya.” He encourages, voice muffled against your skin as he teases the entrance.
His mouth is wet and warm when it captures a nipple and tugs it as gently as he could manage. You let out another whimper bucking your hips, forcing his cock just a little bit further inside. He lets out a strangled moan, releasing your arms as he sits up. An audible wet popping noise when he detaches from your breast, having left a few deep purple bruises.
When bending at the knee his thighs are thick and sturdy. He fully lifts your lower half, dragging your body down the couch a bit, your legs settling, spread, around the worn but rippling muscle of his thighs.
Caressing your face, he thumbs your lip. Opening up, you welcome the digit into your mouth, swirling your tongue around his calloused finger tip.
For just a moment he takes a pause to admire how wet you are. Taking his newly moistened thumb, slowly circling your clit at a steady pace. He watches how the shitty can-lights seated into your ceiling make your aching cunt glisten.
“Joel~” You whine, rocking your hips against his hand.
He halts all movement, dropping his head closer to you. His voice comes through low and gruff. “I can't hear you.”
You bit your lip, suppressing a mischievous giggle. Matching his tone you respond. “Then give me something to scream about.”
He chuckles darkly, “Well, since you asked so nicely.”
He grabs the centermost part of your shorts, ripping the fabric in twain. The barrier was no longer in the way. He spits on your pussy, smacking your folds with his cock. Eliciting a string of gasps and groans from you. Looking down, his cock long and thick. Nearly worrying in size. By God were you ready to take every inch. Your pelvic floor flutters in anticipation.
Lining himself up, he pushes one of your knees as far as it could tuck into your chest. Your other leg sandwiched between his. Fingers gripping the back of your thigh with bruising force. He plunges his cock in so deep it kisses your cervix, leaving you seeing stars.
When a loud moan begins to rip through your vocal cords he roughly grabs your throat, squeezing away the sound. Dropping his head to feel the warmth of your stolen breath fan his face. You were stretched more than ever before, a wet squelch filling your ears as he bottoms out. He feels how your pulse hammers under his fingers, how you strangle his cock, walls fluttering around him. He lets you go the second after your eyes begin to lull, leaving you to suck in a breath of air before slamming into you again.
This time you cry out, your voice reverberating off of your apartment's walls. The sound made his cock throb inside of you briefly pushing on the spot that hit just right. Your mouth falls agape as your head falls back exposing your neck. He takes that opportunity to latch his mouth over the damp perfumed skin of your throat.
“Just like that, darlin’. Let me hear how much you want this cock.” He growls into your ear.
His teeth greet your tender flesh, nipping over areas that make you whimper. The wet suction of your decadent cunt audible as he drives into you at a pace that makes the legs of the couch squeak.
You brace your hand against his strong chest, feeling the thin padding of chest hair beneath his t-shirt. The other hand tangling into his hair, your nails raking down his scalp to his back.
You can't help the long whine that erupts from your chest as he slows. His cock dragging slowly. You focus on how you mold around him, how he fills the empty space so perfectly. Your pussy twitching as your hips writhe beneath him.
“Joellll.” You groan, your hips stuttering when he sinks to full hilt.
You can hear a rumble deep in his throat that echoes in his chest before he speaks. He locks his eyes onto your, his gaze wavering as his eyes threaten to roll in tandem with his hips.
“Show me what you want. Show me some of that hospitality you mentioned.” His voice was low and strangled.
Joel had forgotten an important rule.
“Ask nicely.” You sigh, a shallow thrust taking your breath away.
He halts, his lips grazing the shell of your ear. “Please.” He slips out his cock, the tip resting against the entrance. “Show me”
You shift and sit up, maintaining eye contact with Joel. He lets out a small sound in the absence of your weight against his skin. His discontent quickly resolves as you give him a chaste kiss and turn around crawling to the arm of the couch. Ass up. Waiting, glistening pussy exposed before his eyes.
He can see the slight gape he left close as you flex around nothing, inviting him in. Without hesitation he moves behind you, giving your ass a quick gentle nip dragging his tongue and teeth half way up your exposed back. He straightens up, giving it a little smack, watching it ripple. His thumbs spread your pussy lips, his fingers resting on your cheeks. You back up against him, pussy catching the tip as it jumps.
He shivers, his hands gripping your hips. His fingers dig into your soft flesh as he lets a string of saliva land where you two join. He slides his slick cock back in reveling in the warm and welcome feeling of your body.
You gasp, melting into the arm of the couch, your back arching allowing him in deeper. The way you sucked him in made him curse under his breath. He knew what you wanted. How you wanted to be fucked. He thrusts forward, hard and firm slamming his cock into you at a steady pace. Each movement following the last, the sound of skin slapping filling the room accompanied by the string of curses leaving both of your mouths.
He leans forward, hooking a finger into your mouth. Instinctively you twirl your tongue around the digit. With haste his hand travels between your legs, his newly dampened finger making measured circles on your clit. You moan loudly, the mixing of sensations intoxicating. The feeling of his cock ploughing deep inside mixing with the pleasurable feeling of his hand makes your pussy spasm and quiver around him.
He lets out a rough curse. “Fuck, honey I can feel you dripping down my thighs.”
He doesn't slow or stop this time, allowing you to use him to his full extent. You begin to follow his movements, helping him slam into you, loving all the grunts and groans that fell from his mouth.
Your pussy begins to seize and strangle him as you inch closer to orgasm. He hesitates for a second, his breathing ragged, continuing to pound into you determined to make you cum on his cock.
Over and over he rakes over your g-spot, finger focusing on your bundle of nerves. It feels like ecstasy, like your mind was free floating. You are being fucked senseless. You feel a building pressure low in your stomach, each stroke building more and more. Until-
“Oh, fuck.” You cry out.
An intense orgasm absolutely wrecks your body. Your holes pulsating, pussy clenching around his cock so hard he has to slow down. A milky ring collecting at the base of his cock, his eyes screwing shut as he enjoys how you spasm around him. His thrusts become sloppy, you can feel how his cock twitches inside, balls straining to be drained.
“C'mere.” He slides his soaked cock out after giving one last hard thrust.
With a firm hand on the back of your neck he pulls you to face him, forcing you to your knees. Your body nudging the coffee table across the carpet. You look up at him with pleading eyes, ready to receive whatever he has to give you.
He tangles his fist into your hair, forcing your head back and mouth open. “Shit.” He curses as you stick your tongue out.
With a few rough pumps of his hand he cums all over your face. His seed, warm and thick as he slaps the tip in your tongue, shooting ropes into the back of your throat. You swallow, suckling the tip, popping it out of your mouth with a smile.
He pulls you up onto the couch in one swift motion. “Sorry Darlin’ let me get you cleaned up.”
He steps into your kitchen the sound of his buckle rattling as he walks. Washing his hands he grabs a few damp paper towels and makes his way back to you. Having tucked himself away, he returns to your side. With a gentle hand he wipes away the mess he made. You let him, sitting back against the leather, your skin sticking to it but you didn't care, you felt so satisfied. So relieved, like months of tension had left your body. Heart hammering steadily against your ribs.
“Thanks.” You blush sheepishly, his touch so tender.
You share a look with Joel, a look that told you he might be in town more than usual if he could help it.
Before you could offer to make him dinner or something as a thank you for fucking you so masterfully, the sound of his phone ringing rips through the comfortable silence. It vibrated against the wood, the screen lighting up with his daughter's name.
“Shoot, she uh, she must be here.” As he says that headlights shine in through blinds.
Quickly you scramble to the bathroom to throw on an old pair of pjs and fix your rumpled appearance. Joel buckles his pants, his boxers and thighs beneath still soaked.
He picks up the line. You can hear him talking into the phone.
“Yeah yeah, I'm here. Your neighbor saved me from the heat. You're lucky, I would've been baked alive out there with how long you took.” He teases with a half laugh.
You emerge, leaning against the wall near the kitchen with a smile on your face. He hangs up and turns to you.
He runs his fingers through his sweat-dampened hair as he bends over to tie the boots he had been cramming onto his feet.
“I left my business card on your fridge. Use it. You know, for handyman purposes.” He throws you a quick wink from the floor.
You make your way over to him. Knowing he was about to practically run out the door. You give him a quick peck on the cheek.
Your voice drops. “Good thing there’s a flood in my basement.”
You watch the confusion furrow on his brow before the light behind his eyes perks up. “Oh,” he chuckles inwardly a bit. “Guess I'll have to come back and inspect the pipes.”
A knock interrupts the moment, Sarah’s shadow visible through the blinds. You quickly separate yourself from Joel unlocking the deadbolt. Holding the door open you wave Joel out of your apartment.
Sarah turns to face you, giving you a smile. “Thanks for takin’ care of the old man. He might've melted out here.” She walks away wiping the sweat that was collecting on her brow. Joel gives you a nod, a slight smile on his face as they climb the stairs to the first floor.
Barnes and Howlett are very excited to announce their Valentine’s Week Marathon! We have decided to curate seven days of content leading up to Valentine’s Day. Below is the expected schedule for the week ahead!
Day 1 - Joel Miller x AFAB!Reader | One Shot | Smut
Day 2 - Robert “Bob” Reynolds (Sentry) x GN!Reader | One Shot | Fluff
Day 3 - Steven Grant (Moon Knight) x GN!Reader | One Shot, Original Art | Fluff
Day 4 - Erik Lehnsherr (Magneto) x AFAB!Reader | One Shot | Smut
Day 5 - James “Bucky” Barnes x GN! Reader | One Shot | Fluff
Day 6 - Eddie Munson x GN!Reader x Argyle | Head Canons | Fluff
Day 7 - Din Djarin (The Mandalorian) x AFAB!Reader | One Shot | Smut
Story Description: As a timid good girl you meet your match when a broody gentleman interrupts the day you had planned. A succinct meeting with a crypto mogul leaves you to swoon. Which side will you pick?
Chapter Summary: After a disastrous night, you start your new job role with Anakin.
Pairing: Obi-Wan Kenobi x F!Reader x Anakin Skywalker
Word Count: 7,362
Warnings: Drug use mentioned, divorce, stock market
Authors: Barnes and Howlett
Author Notes: We. Are. So. Back. Hey chat, yeah sorry for the time spent away. Ended up in the hospital a few times. On top of a busy semester. Yk how it is. If you're still here, heyyyyyyy. Thanks for sticking with us! Barnes out. 🚬🗿
WE ARE SO BACK!! We apologize for the hiatus, I was juggling a job and an 18 credit hour semester, (I was lucky to even sleep). BUT WE ARE SO BACKK!! Expect consistent uploads and new series being posted soon. We’ll probs make a update post soon as well. Hope this chapter didn’t come too late for y’all. Love you all who actually read our stuff and care about us!! Bada bing and bada boom ~ Howlett 🌙
The Oobar to your house was silent. You felt bad for causing trouble at Anakin’s, but you obviously couldn't have predicted his ex-wife bursting in like that. Nevertheless, you hope the children hadn't been awoken by the conundrum.
The car pulls up to the exterior of your run down apartment building. At this time of night, almost all of the windows were illuminated, likely families whose parents just got home from work. Your window being one of the only dark ones. Sighing, you shuffle out of the car, thanking the driver before sending him a couple credits as a tip. It wasn't much but it was what you could manage right now.
Treading up the front stairs you quickly make your way inside. The cat didn't come to greet you this time. It was past his bedtime and he kept himself on a strict schedule. Your phone buzzes in your pocket, it's Anakin texting you the details for tomorrow’s day of work. You smile down at the message. He had sent you a rather late time table and had worked around your schedule. How sweet.
Perhaps just going straight to bed would be a good idea, but the flour in your hair told you otherwise. Hesitantly, you make your way to the bathroom and begin a long warm shower. While the water dripped down from the shower head onto your body, you began to think about what had happened in the past twenty-four hours.
From one job to another, then from knowing nothing about a man to knowing all about his family dynamic. How would this new job treat you? He didn’t explain anything about the role, benefits, or really much about the pay.
What am I walking into?
Anakin was trustworthy from the few days you’ve known him, but maybe accepting this job was jumping the gun. What if it’s like the position you once held with Dr. Jinn? The internship that had you overworked and overlooked. You weren’t the most reliable person but you weren’t the dumbest member on the team. Casey held that title with no competition.
What if this job conflicts with school? Looking at the schedule, you would be working six days a week to meet forty hours. Just thinking about those long days and hours, anxiety flooded your nervous system. Maybe getting some sleep instead of thinking about what if’s is a better idea.
You reluctantly turn off the water, mind still mulling over your new found responsibilities. Drying off, you decide to wrap yourself in a fluffy robe before laying down. Your body felt the pull of your plush comforter, but your mind still raced, so many thoughts streaming by, it made you nauseous.
He's taking you on full time, the internship before wasn't even full time and you struggled to keep up. Honestly you were afraid of letting down another team. How thin could you really spread yourself this time? Your failures weren't for a lack of trying but maybe you just weren't trying hard enough.
As you agonized over your day tomorrow you felt a tiny vibration at the end of your bed as your cat stretched before hopping up with a quiet trill. He meowed a hello at you and immediately got to work making biscuits after climbing onto your torso. His fur was all ruffled, no doubt from sleeping. Miles was a peculiar cat, often opting to sleep on his back, tucked into his little cat bed. He could tell when you were stressed and interrupted his beauty sleep to bring you comfort.
Mindlessly, you dig your fingers into his soft fur, giving him a few scratches on his back before going under his chin. He purred like a jet engine, settling down on your abdomen, all of his mighty twelve pounds weighing down on you. Focusing now only his gentle purring, your eyes begin to fall. Your mind is no longer entangled with what if’s.
Today would be the first of many with this new job. The day would start with classes from ten to three, then it would be this new role from four to ten. Horrendous hours, but the bills needed to be paid and dropping out was not in the equation. With a heavy sigh, you decide to check your holo-phone for just a few minutes. There was a text from Anakin.
I don’t want you to be late today, so I’ll send out the Jummer for you. Let me know where Soont should pick you up!
At least you only had to take the hover train to the university, maybe he would even give you a ride home from your shift. Thinking of what to wear, you really couldn’t decide. Anakin never said anything about a dress code policy, but you didn’t want to look out of place. Perhaps a navy blazer with slacks to match, and a light blue button up could suffice, paired with light brown wing tipped shoes.
Not giving your look for the day much more thought, you step out onto the cool air. A bit cold for a summer morning, but it was much better than the excruciating heat. The hover train wasn’t as packed as it normally was, even better for you. You don’t have to feel like a sardine in a tightly packed can.
Per usual the train occupants paid no mind to you, all consumed by their own lives. You take a deep breath as it hisses to a stop, standing, smoothing your blazer before stepping out onto the platform. With your bag slung over your shoulder, it was finally time to be productive. You stop for coffee on the way to your first class, passing a group of gungans smoking under a nearby tree. You wave hi to the usual barista, getting your drink to go. You look down at your watch, still having plenty of time to spare before the lecture.
Arriving at the hall fifteen minutes early, you take a seat near the middle of the room, setting your bag on the chair beside you. Taking out your laptop, you prepare for note taking. As the class progressed you grew more impatient, constantly glancing at the holographic time on the adjacent wall. You were so anxious to get to the next class, you had three in total today. They all felt agonizingly long, your true goal being Anakin's internship. You found yourself staring into space thinking about what you might do with Anakin today.
You were snapped out of your daze when the people around you started packing up. A pit forming in your stomach as time inches closer to two o'clock.
Only one more class, then you could be released from this prison. Complaining about how much you disliked university was like having a love hate relationship. You loved being able to further your education and find a suitable career after. The journey, however, was a different story. University life is always seen as “the best years of your life.” Yet you had felt the complete opposite. You were forced to work to afford tuition and rent, and the school work could easily add up to a collective of seventy hours per week. School is not for the weak, and calling it a prison isn’t everyone’s idea of it. But, to most, it holds true. Walking into the last class of the day, a stark realization hit you.
It’s finally time for professor Jinn’s class.
This day wouldn’t be so easy after all. Settling into your seat, you attempt to stay as indifferent as possible. Trying not to let the memories of yesterday fill your mind you scroll through some meaningless news articles. The irritating noise of a set of high-heels made their way into the classroom, signifying that the one and only Casey had entered.
Of course, for her own amusement, she decided to sit directly next to you. She didn’t say a word as she pulled out her name brand expensive holo-top and started to prepare for the class. Instead of waiting for her to attack, you decided to take the first jab.
“Casey, first time I've seen you above the desk.” You sneer at her. Your voice low, so only she could hear.
She scoffs at your words, turning her nose up at you.
“At least I have a desk.” She shoots back wearing a pleased smirk on her face.
You felt an embarrassed pit in your stomach. Frowning, until you remember. The sides of your mouth curl into a smile.
“Actually I do, a big desk. I upgraded, Casey.” You half-lied.
You didn't actually know what was in store for you later today. No idea if it was better or worse than Professor Jinn's.
Her face fell. “What?”
You grabbed your things without another word, moving to a different spot as class began. She couldn't follow as it would be disruptive to the rest of the students. You never thought you'd thank Maker for the horribly grating metal chairs that inhabited this lecture room.
During the rest of the lecture, Casey was paying more attention to you than the material. Not like she ever needed to pay attention to it… Ignoring her was easy, since the lecture was intriguing. After some time, Dr. Jinn had finished spewing his words of wisdom.
“Alright class, remember exam two on Friday!” He attempts to dominate the loud noise from the chairs. “If you aren’t here on time, you will not be allowed to take the exam!”
Finally, it was the long awaited time. No more classes, just going to your new job with Anakin. Thinking about seeing him again made you worry. What if he was upset after the whole dinner? What if he wasn’t going to be with you tonight? A buzzing noise from your pocket cleared your mind.
Let me know where to send the jummer to! See you soon :)
Collecting yourself, you don’t hesitate to respond.
I’ll be waiting by the university library again, thanks for the ride <3
After hitting send, you pack up your things and get ready to head out.
As you pull your bag up from the chair, the sound of heels fill your ears again. Casey had gone out of her way walking down to where professor Jinn was just to-
“Oops-”
Casey slaps your bag out of your hand, your holo-pad clattering to the floor.
“Sorry.” She giggles covering her mouth, continuing her path down the aisle.
You're unable to get out a word before she's too far. You didn't want to yell, so you just shook your head crouching down to pick up the pad.
You sigh in relief as there was minimal damage to it. Dusting it off you shove it into your bag, zipping it closed.
You sling the strap of your bag onto your shoulder, exiting the lecture hall. You make a quick pit stop in the ladies room, fixing your outfit and smoothing out your hair. Satisfied and eager for your first day, you start your walk to the library.
You pass packs of beings, some students, some on campus for a tour. A few in a hurry to get to their next classes, a few more stationary enjoying a coffee, or laying under a tree.
You arrive at the large stone pillars of the campus library, towering sculptures stretching easily twenty feet high. Stone steps leading to a grand cluster of buildings. But you don't need to go up the stairs as a familiar face leans against the Jummer.
“Hello, Soont. Good evening!” You wave upon seeing him.
He rolls his eyes in response, “Evenin’ Miss.”
He holds the door open as you step in, closing it behind you and then makes his way into the driver seat. Without hesitation, you reach for a bottle of water. The same water from Hoth as last time. The ride was a bit longer than expected but it had allowed you plenty of time to relish on the free drinks and snacks. The Jummer came to a full stop and Soont held the door open for you. It was becoming routine at this point, you almost felt like asking for his number. You decided against it, as he is not just an average ride share driver. You owe him some more respect than that.
Once you exit the Jummer, you had forgotten that you would be in the core of Galactic City. Buildings more than hundreds of feet tall surrounded you. Airspeeders had ranged on a myriad of levels in the sky, filling your ears with the distant sounds. Looking at the entrance of the building, a huge sign stating The Force was displayed above the large glass doors. There was a door man, watching you cautiously.
“Thanks Soont!” You wave him off.
Soont ignores you and makes his way back into the Jummer as you head eagerly to the front doors of the building.
“Excuse me Miss, you are not authorized to be in this building.” The doorman steps right in front of you, crossing his arms.
A slight chortle was the only response you had as you attempted to walk through him.
“Don’t make me call security Miss.” He doubles down and shoots a deadly glare.
Confused, you make an argument. “I’m sorry there must be some mistake. See, I know Dr. Skywalker, I work for him now, and he told me to meet him at this building.” You walk around him once more. “Now if you’ll excuse me.”
“Ma’am you know how many people each day tell me they know Dr. Skywalker personally? You’ll have to think of another lie.” He laughs at your struggles, this is probably the most excitement has had in a few hours.
You grumble in response, quickly reaching into your bag as a hand clasps on your shoulder.
“Sir, get down!” The guard yells.
“No, wait-” The man yelps.
You feel him leap past you, tackling the person behind you. You fall to the ground as well in a shameful heap.
You wince as the hard ground hits yours back. Sitting up, you rub your head, looking at the two men on the ground.
“Anakin?” You call out, upon seeing your friend and new boss under the security guard.
“Y/N! I'm so sorry.” He responds, pushing the guard off of him, standing up.
He races over to you, offering you a hand. You take it and pull yourself to your feet, dusting off your clothes as Anakin angrily stares down the guard.
“Sir, you know this woman?” The man asks quizzically.
“Ba'daar, I sent a company-wide memo this morning.” Anakin informs him, his voice teeming with frustration.
Making grand gestures with his hands, he continues. “In big letters, Welcome Ms. Y/N Y/L/N!”
“Oh, Mr.Skywalker. I must have missed that one, heh.” He says rising to his feet, awkwardly tugging at the collar of his uniform.
“I think it's time for your quarterly review, isn't it?” He vaguely threatens, straightening his lapel.
Anakin hooks your arm with his and leads you into the building, the doors automatically opening for him.
“Welcome to The Force. I see you have already met Ba'daar, unfortunately.” He scoffs to himself. “He is the best in the business.”
You both continue to walk down the numerous hallways. The walls were painted an off white color, the bottom portion was batten, painted a dark chocolate. Each light fixture that hung from the ceiling had a white stained circular glass shade, which made the lighting soft and not too extreme. On the occasion, holographics were plastered on the wall, showing slideshows of current economic affairs and such.
“I’m sure you’ll get adjusted to the building in due time. For now, you will work just outside of my office on the top floor, of course.” Eventually, the both of you stopped in front of the elevator. He positioned his face in front of a contraption that lay just above the elevator buttons. It scanned his face, a robotic voice spoke out in response.
“Access granted.”
“After you.” Ankain gestures past the doors, and you walk right in, thanking him.
The ride up in the elevator was surprisingly fast, it never slowed or stopped for anyone to get on at any other floor. Anakin, catches you looking at the floor numbers rapidly changing.
“Private elevator.” He muses. “This one goes straight to the top. I had it installed when the building went up.”
You huff an uneasy laugh, your ears popping as you exit onto his office floor. “Fancy.”
Anakin clears his throat, “Right this way.”
He leads you along a long red runner, a quaint glass desk sits just outside two intimidating, frosted, double doors. You hear a whirring sound as a blue light runs down Anakin’s body. The red light posted on the wall turns green as soon as Anakin walks up. The heavy doors grind against the floor as they open.
“Welcome Dr. Skywalker.” The same robotic voice from earlier rang out.
“Please, take a seat.” He shrugs his jacket off his shoulders and lays it on top of a coat rack.
Looking around, his office was everything you expected it to be. To the left, a window wall overlooking the city, it appears to be tinted, so no air speeders could look in. In front of the room, was a grand wooden antique desk. The decor was simple, on the desktop was one holo-computer and a golden placard with Dr. Skywalker written on it. A fake tree plant lay on one corner and an edison ball on the other. His chair was black, made from Robuma leather, it looked soft and plump. No matter how many years of sitting, it looked like it would never be uncomfortable.
Just beyond all the fancy workings of his setup, was a myriad of achievements and certificates. In three gold frames lay different degrees, a bachelors, masters, and Phd. All from three universities on different planets, his parents must have been rich, you thought. In smaller frames, laid some certificates he had achieved as well, such as Project Management Professional, Certified Business Analysis Professional, and more you didn’t know existed.
On the right wall from his desk, there was a glass display case. It was filled with different types of awards, trophies, and memorabilia. Lit up, on display, one of the shelves held a glass encased Force coin, looked to be gold. You walk over to the case admiring the coin, its display perpetually, slowly rotates. A special light capturing its every groove. Your eyes glittered in the display lights, falling and cascading along each award. Recognition for innovations in the industry, some for galactarian aid, and others for philanthropy. It was all quite impressive.
You pause, smiling at the pictures Anakin had aligned next to his many achievements. They were pictures of Luke and Leia in various stages of infancy and toddler hood, birthdays and holidays.
In the center there was a large ornate frame, nestled in a pile of sand. It was a pearlescent white, winding glass sculpture on either side, attached to glass pink flowers. You furrow your brows in confusion, the frame's photo was flipped over.
You turn to ask Anakin, when you catch his eyes staring right where you had been. His gaze trained intently on the frame, a solemn look on his face. You look back to the frame noticing interlocking wedding bands carved into the sculpture. Your lips made an oh shape.
“Your office is lovely.” You speak, trying to change the sensitive subject.
“Thank you.” Walking over to his desk, he sits down.
You follow, nestling into the comfortable chair across from him.
“Today will be some simple training and onboarding. First, you’re going to fill out some forms, just so we have all your information on file.” He starts typing away. “Unfortunately I can not be with you in that process, HR only.” He gruffs.
“Someone should be up shortly to help you with that. Afterwards, he’ll talk about company policies, benefits, and salary. Then, I’ll give you a tour around the building, and finally I’ll show you how to use some of our softwares and what your role entails.” Rising from his chair, he could see the confused and frightened look on your face.
“Does this all sound good to you?” He questions, concerned for you.
“Sounds like a lot of information, I hope I will be able to retain all of it in such a short time.” You respond, hoping to bring yourself and him some comfort.
“Don’t worry, I printed an itinerary with the activities and time allotted. You’ll be just fine.” He opens one of his desk drawers and finds a piece of paper. Smiling, he hands it to you. Then, the sound of his holo-phones ringtone filled the quiet room. He fishes it out of his pocket, frowning at the name being displayed.
“Excuse me for a moment.” Walking past you, he exits the room. It was silent for a few moments, he must have sound proof walls. That thought quickly fades once you hear shouting.
“You know what, Kodo, you’re fired! I’ve had just about enough of you, don’t bother coming in to clear out your desk!”
Stunned, you just sat in the chair, feeling awkward as every second passed. Then, Anakin walks back into the room, a large smile on his face.
“Well, change of plans, HR is no longer coming in today. We’ll just have to change the itinerary around. I hope that’s alright with you.”
“‘Oh well, I suppose it's alright. Can we still discuss some of the things I was gonna go over with HR?”
“Some of it, I'm sure you're eager to know your pay, yes?”
You nod, not wanting to seem as strapped for credits as you were right now.
“Like I said, you will be getting double what the university was paying you. Professor Jinn gave me the number 15, so I bumped it up to 35 credits per hour. Take that extra five as a bonus.” Anakin winks at you, clearly pleased with himself.
Your chest swells with excitement as he details your pay, mind at ease, as you finally feel security for the first time since being fired.
“Wow, Anakin. Thank you so much, I won't let you down.” You promised, smiling at him fervently.
Anakin smiles back at you, beckoning you with an awkward head movement towards the double doors. “How ‘bout that tour?”
You push yourself up off of your seat, a pep in your step as you follow Anakin out of his office.
“Oh, I almost forgot.” Anakin leans against the glass desk. “This is where you’ll be working. We can personalize this desk anyway you want it. Maybe once you get that permanent position here after your degree, I'll build you an office too.”
You chuckle at him, shaking your head. “Anakin, I'm still a couple of years out of graduation, I'm afraid you'll have to wait on those construction plans.”
“No shame in starting early, time in the market beats timing the market.”
Anakin continues his walk to the elevator, holding the door for you to enter. The only down side to the personal elevator is that you had to go all the way down to access the rest of the building. Before reaching the mainfloor level the elevator stopped and dinged at the 5th floor. You look up, making a confused hum.
“Okay I lied, it doesn't go straight up, it stops on the office level, so I can see if my little peons are hard at work.” Anakin chortles.
The doors open and reveal a vast office space. There must have been over a hundred people sitting in dual-monitored octagonal cubicles.The cubicles were recessed into the floor, all eyes briefly glance at Anakin walking in front of you on the catwalk before returning to work.
“All this for stocks?” You ask bemusingly.
Anakin chuckles and shakes his head.
“All this for an empire!” He cheers, earning a few faint whoops as he gestures grandly to the rows of people.
He looks up, an impossibly large holo-screen illuminates the room. Crypto numbers and graphs are steadily rising, with projections higher than you could imagine. He was making more credits per hour alone than any university job could have offered to its entire staff.
“This is insane.” Is all you can say to that, as you both continue to walk down the footway.
“Insane indeed, you have to stay ahead of the game. How else can you do so?” A passive chuckle leaves his lips. “You should see some of our competitors' rings. If you think this is insane, you’ll be blown away by what they have.” He continues. “All that technology, and we are still number one.” Mockingly, he pops his collars on his button up.
Still stunned, you let out a small laugh. It was interrupted by the sound of your stomach signaling it needs a meal, you hope he didn’t hear.
“Hungry now, are we?” A look of concern rests on his face as he stops in his tracks.
“Maybe just a little.” Shyly, you look away. Another scream of protest erupts from your gut.
“When was the last time you had a meal?” He asks, crossing his arms and raising an eyebrow.
“I don’t know. Around…” You had to think about it, sadly. “Nine?”
“Nine!? It is nearly five o’clock!” Protesting, he wraps his arm around hers. “We need to fix this A-S-A-P!”
He marches the both of you up to where you arrived. He nearly pushes you into the elevator with eagerness.
“There's a place a parsec away that has amazing Nemoidian food. You're gonna love it.” He grins, pressing the button to the main floor.
You nod. “If you like it, I'm sure it's good.”
He gets out his holo-phone as you descend, a few clicks and a satisfied hum later, Anakin speaks up again. “Okay, it should be here by the end of the tour. I promise this meal won't be as- traumatizing.” His tone softened at that last part, apologetic and regret filled. “Y/N I’m so sorry about that by the way. I uh, I didn't know things would blow up so spectacularly.”
You turn to him, a pitied look on your face. “Oh, Anakin. I don't blame you for any of that. I understand, family matters and all.” You reassure.
The elevator dings as you hit the main floor, the same space you had to fight to enter, now being shown around by their CEO. The security looked at you apologetically, avoiding Anakin’s steel gaze.
He takes you room to room, introducing you to staff and friends alike. Everyone seemed to respect Anakin greatly, he was friendly to everybody. Looks of unease flashed briefly across a few faces when Anakin spoke to them so gently. Obviously not his usual state. You had seen how he treated the waitstaff at the club, there was no way that didn't carry over to his place of business but maybe he was a changed man after that night.
Every room had been more amazing than you thought. Obviously, this was an office building, they’re usually mundane and ordinary. However, this building was high-tech, modern, and monumental. Eventually, the both of you ended up back up to Anakin’s office. He showed you the rest of the level, which accompanied cubicles of the higher ups. Across from Anakin’s domain was Obi-Wan’s, nearly as massive in size. The clouded glass made it almost impossible to see into the room, especially when the lights were off. Finally, you both reach those luxurious seats once more, signaling the end of the tour. As if on cue, his holo-phone chimed.
“That would be the food, my dear.” Even though he just sat down, promptly, he headed toward the door. “Don’t worry, be back in a jiff!” With that, he left.
Not knowing what to do with yourself, you immediately start looking around. You knew exactly what you wanted to examine more, that wedding frame. Perhaps it would be nothing, but you wanted to see if something was hidden on the other side of that photo. Gently, without smudging the glass, you unlatch and open the panel. Albeit, you were starting to feel guilty and a little anxious even. Here you are, intruding on someone who had just given you the biggest opportunity you’ve ever had.
Pushing all negative thoughts aside, you continue to reach for the frame. You didn’t know why, but your hand started shaking. Maybe it was the anticipation of what's inside or the idea of being caught. Carefully, you pull the back off the frame and inspect the insides. There it was, a photo from one of the days that was supposed to be the highlight of Anakin’s life.
It was what you assumed to be their first kiss as they were wed. He was beaming, as was she. A baby bump was already visible in the flowing skirt of her dress. He had one hand wrapped around her waist, the other cupping her face. If you look hard enough you can see the errant tear sliding down his cheek into his smile line. You flipped the picture around in your hand, looking at it closely. A small sound of endearment escaping your lips before the ding of the elevator interrupts your thoughts.
Quickly you put back the picture, face down, neatly. Shut the glass door and scramble back to the couch. Nearly taking the coffee table with you as your heel snags on one of the legs. You make a strangled grunt as you ungracefully sit down harder than intended. In efforts to disguise it you begin to cough and clear your throat.
Anakin comes in grinning ear to ear holding up a poorly wrapped bag of takeout. He holds it in line with his face shaking the bag slightly. “Chow time!”
He notices your cough and furrows his brow. “You alright? Need a drink?”
You clear your throat one last time before nodding. “Yeah, that’d be good.” Making an effort to sell your act.
Anakin walks over to the waist height fridge near his desk, after setting the food on the now crooked coffee table, he procures a couple of glass water bottles. Pausing for a second glancing at his display case. The latch had been undone, he was sure he closed it this morning when he came in.
His eyes find yours, a question held within his gaze. You looked like a deer in headlights, eyes trained forward on the floor like a child just before being scolded by a parent. Calmly, he walks back over, handing you your bottle. “Here.”
You thank him, having a hard time finding your voice. Wordlessly he sets out the food and utensils, his expression fairly neutral. He gestures to you to pick up one of the takeout boxes, grabbing one of his own.
“These noodles, to die for.” He says opening his box, steam rising into the air.
The aroma of savory spices reaching your nostrils, your stomach growling becoming almost painful now. You eagerly open your container and begin to eat. It was heavenly, like you hadn't eaten in days. Your eyes screw shut as you hum.
That moment was halted as Anakin began to speak. “So, did you find what you were looking for?”
You fought the jarring urge to spit out your mouthful as your stomach lurched at his sudden question. “Wha-” you swallow thickly.
“My case. It wasn't unlatched last I checked.”
“I wasn’t- I didn’t mean-” you stammer.
“I mean you can lie, I have cameras in here of course.” He shrugs nonchalantly, continuing to eat his food.
“Anakin, I'm sorry.” You wipe your mouth and set down your box. “I just wa-”
“Wanted to see what was in the frame? Well? What have you gathered?” He asks his tone light for such pointed words.
You gather your thoughts. With a sigh, you explain your understanding. “Well, it appears that you and your… well, ex-wife, are just that. Exs’.”
Hearing your words, he encourages you to go on.
“You’re divorced.” You say blankly, “I think.”
Nodding his head, he continues to chew on the noodles, presumably gathering what to say.
“Would you like me to explain what happened?” He said delicately, his demeanor faltering.
Thinking about it, you knew that you were snooping and wanted to know the truth. Perchance he just wants to clear out the air, or not have to explain his situation later down the line. After all, you had a glimpse last night of the chaos that unfolded in the Skywalker residence. Staring at the floor, you make a response.
“If you’re comfortable…” you bite your lip. “Maybe you could just briefly explain your situation?”
“Of course. I mean, there is really no hiding it anymore.” Setting down his box, he clears his throat and sits up straight.
“Padmé and I are no longer together. We aren’t divorced, as that takes time, especially with the kids.” You could hear the grief in his voice as he spoke.
“We have been separated for a few months now. Each day that goes on, I can’t stop thinking about what I did wrong and how I should have made things right a long time ago.” He pauses for a moment.
“That photo that you saw was taken on our wedding day, about five years ago. I didn’t have the heart to throw it away.” He chuckles, trying to bring light into the situation. “She is my first wife after all, which means a lot to me.”
Upon hearing those words, there lay one question. Without even thinking, you blurted it out.
“What did you do?” Immediately, regret fills your face as you slap a hand over your mouth.
“No, no, it’s okay.” Reassuring you, he continues. “What didn't I do?” He pauses. “No, actually, I didn't cheat. I didn't do that one. But truthfully, I wasn't there for her, for the twins. I ran away, used work as an excuse to stay away. Leaving Padme to her government duties and two kids. It’s shameful, something I'll always regret.” He shakes his head solemnly before resuming. “It wasn't until a few months ago that Padme and I agreed the kids would live with me, you know, to make up for lost time. She still hates me, I can tell. Resents me even. We tried to work it out, I've been a better dad but I think I'm past being a better husband at this point.” He takes a deep breath, his eyes sad and glazed.
“Wow, Anakin. I’m sorry to hear that. Thank you for sharing that with me” You were at a loss for words, unsure of how to speak to him in this emotional state.
You remember witnessing how deeply he loves the twins, how good of a father he tries to be. Even if he had a babysitter for most of the day. “If it's of any use, I can see how hard you try to be a good father. I mean, those kids- they love you so much.”You nod, placing a compassionate hand on his knee.
Immediately, his hand lays on top of yours. Looking at his face, you could see his glossy eyes and the sorrow he held.
“Thank you, I really appreciate your kindness.” He squeezes your hand.
In that moment, you fix your eyes on his, and didn’t look away. You had no idea what washed over you, but you couldn’t glance away from him. He reciprocated, locking his attention to you and you alone. It is a strange juxtaposition. This man has just poured his heart out to you about how he abandoned his family, but he is now seeking empathy from you. Of course, you are one to judge, but considering how he reflected on the situation, you can see how much he deeply regrets his actions. Which is something to appreciate. A chime from his holo-phone pulls you out of thoughts, you retract your hands.
Irked, he fishes for his holo-phone in his pant pocket. Taking a moment to read it, he realizes it’s nothing important. You continue to eat your food as he returns the device into it’s place, silencing it.
“So…” he clears his throat. “You in a relationship or anything?”
Laughing, you couldn’t believe what he asked. “Why would you ask me that?”
Giggling, he protests. “You made me explain my situation, now explain yours.” He gestured with chopsticks in his hands.
He did have a point. “Fine…” Jokingly, you sigh. “I am currently single, and have been for a few years now.”
Shocked, he gasps. “What, you? Single? For years?”
You thought he was insulting you. “What? Sometimes things just don’t work out!”
“No, no.” He waves his hands in defense. “I didn’t mean it in a negative way.” He pauses. “You just seem like such a great person, I figured someone had snatched you up.” Toying with his chopsticks, he stares into the noodle box.
Feeling your face heat, you couldn’t help but smile. “Well, thank you for the compliment.” Your shoulders fall as you reminisce about your last relationship. “Wish my ex could say the same.”
“Oh I gotta hear this.” Anakin scoots closer his undivided attention on you as his hands fall into his lap.
“Since you shared, it’s only fair for me too, as well. So a few years ago there was this guy, we’ll call him Shmoe. At first things were great, he took me out, showed me off, bought me thoughtful gifts, showered me in affection. I thought ‘Man, this is too good to be true!’ Unfortunately I was correct, things took a turn for the worse when we went out clubbing in the Uscru District. He got hooked on something nasty and became a completely different person.” You look down at your hands, fiddling with your fingers before continuing. “After that he became jealous and volatile, wanting to be out all the time, getting into trouble.” There was something about your tone that gave off the impression there was more you weren’t saying. “But yeah, I couldn't do it anymore after all of that. Since then I've been more cautious as to who gets my attention. Especially with school, I just haven't had the time.”
Anakin nods, thoughtfully a flash of ire burning in his eyes when you mention your mistreatment. “You didn’t deserve that, you know. Screw that guy, Shmoe, sounds like he sucks and didn't deserve a high class lady such as yourself.”
He nudged your side with his elbow a bit, the lightness in his tone keeping you from thinking back too hard.
“Now that we know each other's scathing love lives, how about some work stuff, huh?” He grabs a remote and flicks on the holoscreen embedded into his office windows. The market up on the screen.
Instantly any thought of the past was shattered as your attention was on the constant numbers flowing up and down. While you were occupied with trying to keep up on the latest stock prices, Anakin walked towards a small file cabinet. He pulled out two white throw pillows and two large grey velvety blankets. Moving the coffee table, he attempted to open as much space as possible as he laid down one blanket. Then, he fixed the pillows next to each other, as he slipped off his shoes and blazer. Neatly, he sets his things aside as he gets down on one knee.
Glancing over to you, he speaks. “Join me.” He reaches out a hand with a cheeky smile.
Snickering, you slide off your shoes and get down to the floor next to him. He gestures towards the pillows and you lay down, trying to get comfortable on the solid wood floors. He fixed himself next to you and draped the blanket across the two of you. Your nostrils get hit with a powerful waft of Anakin’s scent.
“Why do you have these just laying around in your office?” You question, genuinely wanting to know.
“I have long days and now with the twins, long nights as well.” Folding his hands behind his head, he continues. “So, sometimes I take a little snoozer during the day.”
“Likley story.” You prod.
“You think I would lie?” He scoffs. “If I’m being honest, taking nice long naps are my guilty pleasure.”
“Okay okay, I guess.” You raise your hands in mock defense. “So, work stuff. Do you just sit in here all day and watch the stock market?”
“Pretty much.” He turns his head and winks. “With a few other bells and whistles.”
He hits his remote once more and the other windows illuminate. One idling with a 3d force coin spinning. An array of numbers and spreadsheets are visible. Your eyes alight in wonder, mostly from the optics of the screens, but also the impressive work in front of you. You knew Anakin was intelligent, but this was different. This was genius level work.
“This is impressive.” You compliment, looking over a scroll of Anakin’s personal notes that were on the screen, market projections and predictions. Old ones dated with outcomes, about 90% of the time he was correct.
Anakin crosses his arms over his chest with pride for his work. “This company is my brain child, I'm very proud of what it’s become.” He nods.
At this point it had gotten late, although the galactic market stood open all the time most of Anakin’s workers had filed out and to their homes. A single office worker arrived back into the building. Conveniently his office was on the same floor as Anakin’s, tucked into a previously unoccupied corner.
Obi-Wan had gathered his things for the day and was out of the building earlier than usual, when he realized he had left important documents he needed for some homework in his office. It is then that he arrives on the floor that he notices Anakin burning the midnight oil as usual. He makes his way to the big man’s office.
“Up gambling with the numbers so late, Anakin?” Obi-Wan chuckles as he nonchalantly slams open Anakin’s office doors.
He takes note of the scene in front of him. A wave of emotions hitting him, surprise, a tinge of anger, and bubbling curiosity.
“Oh, what do we have here?” Laying his hands on his hips, he raises an eyebrow and taps his foot in a displeasing manner.
“Obi-Wan!” Anakin jumps up immediately, pretending as if he was not just caught red handed. You toss the blanket off of your bodies, hoping Obi-Wan didn’t get the wrong impression. “We’re just doing a bit of onboarding today is all. Nothing special.” He pulled a fake smile but was noticeably starting to sweat.
“Nothing special?” Tilting his head, he surveys the room again. “If that’s what the kids call it these days.”
“Did you need something Obi-Wan?” Anakin spat, growing in annoyance.
“It appears I don’t. Merely forgot something earlier back in my office. Thought I would say hi, but I seem to have walked in on, ‘nothing special'."
Sitting up, you decide you should say something. “Maybe we should move onto the next part of that itinerary, Anakin?”
Both of their heads instantly snap to face you. They could see how flustered you’d become.
Clearing his throat, Anakin continues to stare down Obi-Wan. “Maybe we should.”
Trying to settle the cats, you make a suggestion. “Obi-Wan, would you like to join us?”
Confusion washed over Anakin as Obi-Wan saw this as an opportunity to ruin whatever Anakin was attempting to do.
He straightens his posture and smiles. “Of course! I would love to join.” Smirking, he takes a jab at Anakin. “After all, I know more about our sophisticated softwares than my associate here.”
The both of you notice the rise in Anakin’s temper. Clearly, he was not pleased with this sudden change in plans.
Taking a stand, you dust off your pants. “Sounds great! Let me fetch that paper.”
Story Description: As a timid good girl you meet your match when a broody gentleman interrupts the day you had planned. A succinct meeting with a crypto mogul leaves you to swoon. Which side will you pick?
Chapter Summary: After a rough day, you have dinner with a familiar, charming friend.
Pairing: Obi-Wan Kenobi x F!Reader x Anakin Skywalker
Author Notes: Hey ya’ll, we did it, chapter 4 out. Woohoo! Honestly thought this was gonna come out later bc on top of our own medical problems, my mom got hospitalized. :( She's fine tho. I also just put out part 2 of my No trespassing series with Joel Miller, very proud, please read it. Fanks! ~ Barnes 🚬🗿
Hey guys, I don’t have tendonitis I most likely have arthritis! (I’m in my early twenties). Somehow, we made it our longest chapter yet. Cheers ~ Howlett 🌙
Anakin slams the door of the jummer after hopping inside, his hand tracing over where your kiss lingered on his cheek. His phone rhythmically buzzed in his pocket snapping him back to the harsh reality of the situation. The driver quickly pulls off, knowing the matter was urgent. He brings his phone back into his hand checking the messages that flooded in one after the other.
Padmé furiously texts Anakin to hurry home. Sending stills from the nest cam of the twins left unattended while the babysitter lay hunched over on the sofa. The drive felt like an eternity, knowing his own children, being left alone for too long could spell catastrophe.
Rage bubbled inside of him thinking that she may have put his children in grave danger. Anakin had felt something was off with the sitter, but Padmé insisted there was nothing wrong with her and Anakin was just anxious. He knew he should have trusted his gut, he was never wrong in that regard.
The car screeched to a halt and Anakin practically exploded out of the Jummer, briskly retrieving his keys to unlock his doors. He runs up the stairs quickly entering the house, running into the living room where his two children sat playing with the tv remote amongst their various toys.
First he picks up Luke, inspecting his body for injuries, asking if the boy was okay, before setting him down with a quick forehead kiss. He does the same to Leia, before herding them into their shared bedroom, tucking them into their monastery beds. He carefully closes their door and angrily marches to the living room where the babysitter lay passed out on the couch. The smell of spice, sharp, ozone-like, almost metallic scent lingering in the air surrounding her. He felt his stomach leap, in fear for his children and anger towards the woman before him.
“Hey, Hey! Wake up! What the h-e-double-hockey-sticks do you think you’re doing?” He whisper yells, careful not to startle the children.
She jolts awake with a dazed out look across her face. The words fall off her tongue thick like syrup. “Mr. Skywalker, I uh-”
“Get out of my house, you no longer have a job here. I'll wire you the credits for tonight but after that do not come near me or my family again.” He spat.
She got up to the best of her ability and made her way to the door. It was infuriating to see her struggle to gain full control of her body. Eventually, the door shut, and Anakin was quick to lock it.
He rested his forehead on the door and sighed. “Calm down, the kids are safe now.”
Anakin glances over to the table next to the entrance, his hands finding their way into his pockets. A familiar shape slots between his fingers. Oh Yeah. He takes out the ring you had left in the Jummer, placing it on the table. Slowly, he pulls out his holo-phone and finds your number.
Hey, it’s Anakin! I noticed you forgot something in the Jummer. I can stop by tomorrow and drop it off for you! Maybe we could have some coffee as well? Let me know, sweet dreams!
Reluctantly, he hit send and slipped the holo-phone back into his pants pocket. Cheerfully, Anakin walks toward his children’s room. If one thing could make his mood brighter, it would be the two little rascals themselves. He opens the door, and not to his surprise, he finds them out of bed making a mess of the toys in their chest.
“What are you two trouble makers doing?” A smile erupts on his face, his hands on his hips.
“We’re clones in the clone war! We are losing right now!” Leia cheerfully responds.
“I wanted to be on the winning side, but I couldn’t leave Leia by herself. I know she needs someone strong to watch over her.” Luke says, while flexing his tiny toddler muscles.
“How did the babysitter treat you guys?” Anakin questioned, anticipating an awful response.
“She was great! She put on a movie for us then kept smelling this powder, it was really cool! Because after, she was being silly and ended up falling asleep!” Luke responds.
“She finished it all before we could get some!” Leia chimes in.
Anakin stands dumbfounded yet relieved that his children did not partake in the babysitter's stash.
“You know how daddy put his number in your holo-pad?”
Both Luke and Leia turn to him, nodding in unison.
“If any one is acting silly like that again, you tap Daddy’s picture, okay?”
They nod once more, immediately going back to playing. Anakin hopes they will tire out soon and go to bed. He heads to the kitchen, noticing the pre-portioned fruit he had ready for the kids was laying untouched in the fridge. He grumbles in frustration, before raking his hand through his hair and down his face.
Laughter erupts from the room as a battle is inevitably lost, Anakin chuckles, the joyous laughter of his children filling him with a warm happiness. He treads back into the room to see the two kids sprawled out on the floor, surrounded by foam lightsabers and makeshift pillow trenches.
“Alright you two, bested in battle. I think it's time for bed.” He says scooping the both of them up in his arms. They protest very little as the warmth of their father envelopes them.
He tucks them back in by dismantling the trenches and reassembling their beds around them. He opts to put the rest away later, when they are deeper in sleep.
“Daddy, can you tell us a bedtime story?” Leia asks, giving a pleading look that melts Anakin's heart.
“Of course, I have a perfect one in mind.” The children snuggle into their blankets, as Anakin gets ready to tell the story of his life.
“Once upon a time, there were two clones in the clone wars. It was bedtime, so because they were soooo tired from fighting, they decided to go to bed. The end!”
The children sighed. “That was awful.” Luke responds, his hand meeting his face.
“Alright, I’ll try another one…” Anakin clears his throat and changes his tone.
“Once upon a time, there were two jedis-” He was cut off by his children’s annoyed groans.
“Daddy, you suck at this.” Leia says.
“Hey watch your mouth, that is a grown up word! If you want a bedtime story, you will listen to the story I’m telling. Alright? If not, no holo-pads for a week.”
The children cry out a no. “I’m sorry daddy, we'll listen!” They both lay tucked in their blankets, ready for a real story.
“That’s what I thought… Once upon a time there were two jedis who were best friends. They found themselves sharing a snub fighter and were having a great time. But, there was another jedi, who was all by himself and wanted to play in the same snub fighter as the other two. He couldn’t bring himself to ask to be friends with them out of fear that they wouldn’t like him.”
“Why is he so scared?” Leia chimes in.
“Well, the young jedi was scared because he knew the jedi girl liked the jedi boy more than him. He knew that she would not want to be friends with him.”
“How do we know that the jedi girl doesn’t like the lone jedi?” Luke asks.
“You can find that out when you’re older.” Anakin chuckles.
“If I was the girl Jedi, I would say hi.” Leia interjects.
“Very good,” Anakin hums. “How about you, Luke?”
“I would say hi too, we can all be friends.” Luke mumbles from the comfort of his covers.
“Excellent.” He chuckles. “You wouldn't want to leave them alone so they can be close friends like how you and the other jedi are?”
“Huh?” Luke asks.
“Uh, nevermind, son. Where was I?”
“The girl Jedi was saying hi.” Leia pipes up
“Ah, that’s it. The two jedis hop along, out of the snub fighter and say hello to the lone Jedi, accepting him into their group. They go on adventures and live happily ever after as friends. The end.”
The twins sigh in unison, now too tired to protest their dad’s awful story. Anakin earned two yawns, but that was all he needed. He walked by each bed, planting a small kiss on each child's forehead before silently leaving the room.
Anakin pads back to the front door, removing his shoes at the rack, and undoing his belt. He walks towards his bedroom allowing his pants to fall around his ankles before kicking them off and flopping into his king sized bed. He groans at the dull ache in his back, he ruffles his hair and sits upright, legs off of the bed. He knows he’s due for a shower but not before he picks his phone out of his discarded slacks, navigating to your number once more, checking if you had responded. Still no response.
He walks into his ensuite and removes the rest of his clothing before turning on the pleasant warm spray of the shower. He steps in relishing the warmth of the water, finally being able to wash off the sweat of all of those tightly packed club-goers.
You felt the same as the lukewarm spray in your tiny apartment bathroom did its job. After the night of shenanigans that you just had, a shower was due. Despite it already being a few hours past your bedtime, this had to be done either now or never.
You stepped out of the shower, finding a towel and wrapping it around yourself. You make your way out of the bathroom and look for your holo-phone to check the time. 4:46 am. To say you were screwed was an understatement. Might as well stay up all night, there is on point in trying to catch some shut eye.
Curiously, you check your holo-phone notifications, it has been hours since you last checked any messages. You notice one from Anakin, piquing your interest, you read his message.
What could I have forgotten?
You decide that responding would be a good idea, maybe instead of coffee, dinner would be better?
Hey Anakin, thanks for finding my thing. How about we do dinner instead? I’m not sure I have time in the morning to catch some coffee, but I could try to get out of my internship early… What do you think?
You ponder on the message. Was asking for dinner too much? You’ve only known this guy for less than twenty-four hours. Not to mention, this was supposed to be a professional relationship. Sitting on his friend/colleagues’ lap may have stretched that line. Deciding against your morals, you hit send.
After clearing out some more notifications, you decide to get to work on that project for Professor Jin.
You drag yourself over to the small desk in the corner of your bedroom, skin still sticky from the humidity of the shower. The datapad flickers to life, illuminating your sleep deprived face with a soft blue glow. You open the crypto tracking rubric you had been working on for the economics and emerging tech section of the class. A heavy sigh escapes your lips.
“Track your chosen crypto coin from the list below, track also:
Wallet movement
Volatility trends over the last thirty cycles
Dumps or discrepancies
Provide a written analysis on potential long term viability of the coin.”
You roll your eyes before beginning the list of crypto coins, typing out The Force.
Anakin’s coin had been gaining traction amongst the students after his seminar. You recall him saying “rebalance control across the galaxy's financial system!” You’d laughed when you first heard the line. Now as you dig into his data and transaction histories you weren't so sure it was just marketing fluff. This guy knew how to slang some coins.
You go through a segment of trending data on the coin. “Okay, spike after Outer-Rim conference, plateaued during the Coruscant blackout, then yep, spike again after his latest seminar.”
You continue to dig, looking at past trends. Only a few perfect wallet dumps, here and there, could be luck, could be suspicious. The world begins to blur on the screen as your eyes begin to burn a bit. You blink hard, looking over at the time, 7:24 am.
Just about time to get ready for the day. You thoughtfully lay out an intriguing formal outfit for your internship. Doing this with no sleep was a much harder task than you thought. So you decided on a classic look, white button up with black slacks and a black blazer. Something that screams you have it together, when in reality you do not.
After finishing up your morning routine, you step outside to the cool morning breeze. Making your way to the hover-train, you decide to stop by and get some coffee. After all, you would need a gallon of it to survive today.
Stopping by the same coffee shop you had met Obi-Wan at, just the day before. Unfortunately, he was not there to razzle up your morning once again. He was most likely at home enjoying sleep in his expensive sheets. That bastard.
Somehow, the day dragged along, attending class after class, trying to pay any sort of attention to the material. It was very awkward having your head fall as many times as it did, perhaps a short nap would be able to give you some new found energy.
After your dreadfully elongated day of classes and about five cups of coffee, you found yourself back to your apartment complex just forty-ish minutes earlier than intended. The time was 2:17 pm, the meeting you had with Professor Jinn was not until four. There was definitely some time for you to rest your eyes for but a moment.
“I’ll just close my eyes for ten minutes.” You say to yourself, setting your head down on your desk, arms sprawled next to the datapad, still displaying Anakin’s crypto graphs.
When you wake, light is flooding your apartment, harsh and bright. You shoot up in a panic, your desk chair clattering to the floor.
4:09 pm
Your heart plummets, knowing you are late again. Your meeting was at four.
“Shit, Shit, Shit,” You hiss.
You're still in your outfit from this morning. Hair wild, eyes puffy and bloodshot from staring at your datapad for too long. Smudged eyeliner is still left under your eyes. NO time to fix it. You sprint out of the door, data pad hastily shoved in an unzipped backpack.
You pass the doorman in a blur, his usual greeting unheard as you rush to a familiar hallway, nearly twisting your ankle in the process. By the time you skid to a breathless halt outside Professor Jinn’s office, it’s 5:16 pm, officially over an hour late. You knock once, timidly, knowing what's to come on the other side of the door.
He’s inside, seated behind his desk, grading papers, with an unreadable calm. He doesn't even look up at you. You hover in the doorway trying to catch your breath.
“Professor Jinn, I’m so sorry I’m late again, I-”
“Come in.” He says flatly, eyes still on the stack of paper in front of him. “Shut the door.”
You do. The silence as you step inside is deafening, you clutch the strap of your bag feeling your heart beating out of your chest. He finally looks up at you, really looks, his eyes boring into your own.
“You look… rough.” He says evenly, eyes tracing over your exhausted figure.
“I was up late working on the project.” You lie, well mostly lie, taking a seat across from him. “I ran into some interesting data trends I thought were worth following and-”
He interupts, slamming his hands on his desk, raising from his chair as does so. “You were supposed to be here at four o’clock, knowing you, I had the actual meeting time set to four-thirty.”
“I’m sorry. I lost track of time.” You manage to squeak out, sinking back into your seat.
“Which tells me one of two things.” He cuts in. “Either you don't take this opportunity seriously, or you believe the rules don't apply to you.” He pauses for a beat, staring you down. “Which is it?”
You open your mouth to apologize again, but he raises his hand before you can speak. He sits back in his chair, collecting himself.
“I have other graduate students, who would kill for the opportunity to co-lead a long term project with me. You and Casey were presumably excellent candidates, but you continue to disrespect our appointment times. How can I trust you to meet real deadlines? Or speak in front of a funding board? Or even be present when it really matters?”
You're mortified. Cheeks flushed, stomach dropping. You nod, swallowing hard, hot shame washing over you.
“I do take this seriously, Professor. Last night was unexpectedly long. I was asked to help network with The Force coin for investors night. It won't happen again.”
He leans back in his chair, hands laced on the top of his desk. His eyes search your face for a long moment, his gaze cold and unkind.
“I believe you mean that.” He says at last.
“But meaning it, isn't the same as proving it.” He pauses. “I will be assigning Casey to the permanent position beside me.”
The breath you had been holding finally slips from your lungs as you feel a lump forming in your throat.
“You can still contribute to the project, if you want.” He adds, voice firm. “But I need people I can count on, not people who show up breathless, half washed, and over an hour late.”
You nod, biting your cheek, tears forming in the corners of your eyes. “Understood.”
He picks up a pen and begins grading again, already dismissing you.
“Good day, Miss Y/N.”
You step back into the hallway, the door closing with a soft click behind you. The mix of shame and adrenaline had become dizzying. You sling your bag over your shoulder, sighing deeply. You dont allow the tears to slip as you shamefully make your way to the campus library. Knowing it was the only place you could find solace for the moment.
Over the past hours, you somehow missed a message from Anakin. He sent it at around five in the morning. It appears his message was sent shortly after yours.
Dinner sounds great! I don’t need you leaving early though, text me when you're out and I’ll pick you up. ;)
Reading Anakin’s message had warmed your heart, a tear almost falling down your cheek. A distraction would be great at this time, and why not luck out on free dinner from a crypto mogul?
Hey Ani, had a rough day and got out early, would you be free for dinner now?
Not a minute passes by before he messages you again.
Just about to start making the twins dinner, I’ll be over as soon as the sitter gets here! Where am I picking you up?
You chuckle, imagining Anakin in the kitchen, a towel slung over his shoulder, bits of sweat and food on his face as he smiles down at your message.
No worries, take your time! I’ll be at the university's library.
The library had been practically empty, since it was around dinner time. No student can study on an empty stomach. So, instead of working on anything of importance or occupying your time with a book. You make your way over to a study room, checking the logs, it appears to be open for the next hour.
You enter, not even bothering to turn on the lights. You roll the blinds down, and sit on the desk chair, fold your arms on the table. You lean your head down and start to cry. The tears came hot and fast, the weight of being disqualified for the internship you worked so hard on felt like an elephant was sitting on your chest. It didn't help either that someone who had treated you unfairly, nastily you would add, became triumphant in getting that permanent spot.
Fuck Casey, and Professor Jinn.
You were so angry at them, although it was ultimately your fault for being late so often. Your mind wandered to last night, if you hadn't gone out with Anakin and Obi-Wan, none of this would be happening. You'd be sitting behind your desk working away diligently with job protection. Instead you find yourself curled up in this library room with less than one-thousand credits to your name. How would you make rent? How would you continue to live the already decrepit life you lived?
This internship with Professor Jinn was the doorway to your livelihood. You continue to cry as you hear a soft knock at the door. Your eyes immediately pin to the doorway. In comes a little old librarian lady, who appeared to be from Takodana, in her hands a small candy bar and packet of tissues.
“Come in.” You say voice breaking.
“Here ya go dear, I can hear you having a tough time here.” She places the candy and tissues down on the desk next to you.
“There's always more where that came from.” She throws you an impish wink, patting you on the shoulder before leaving you by your lonesome.
You sniffle a quick thank you as she exits the room. Partially embarrassed that she had heard you, partially relieved that you had something to clean up with before Anakin had arrived.
You take out a few tissues and wipe up the puddle of tears you had left on the desk as well as the ones staining your cheeks. Like clockwork your holo-phone buzzes once more, a text from Anakin lighting up the screen.
Hey so sorry, change of plans. Can’t seem to find a sitter, maybe we could reschedule? I doubt you’d want to come to a messy house full of toys and destructive children.
A heavy sigh leaves your lips, the one thing that could distract you seemed to dissolve. Until a thought pops into your head.
Hey, maybe I could swing by? I could help you with dinner?
Hesitantly, you press send. Hopefully this wasn’t an overstep of Anakin’s boundaries. Over a minute had passed by, and immediately you started overthinking, regretting the message
That sounds like a great idea! I’ll send the Jummer right over, see you soon!
The feeling of butterflies fluttered in your stomach, immediately you pulled out a compact mirror and started getting to work. Your eyes had been puffy and red, mascara ran down your face, and your hair had been disheveled.
You rummage through your backpack, pulling out a small makeup bag and a travel sized brush. Even if it was just a small dinner at Anakin’s house you wanted to look your best. You pull out some makeup wipes and remove the stained mascara from your cheeks, applying fresh mascara over. Quickly you fix your eyeliner and brush through your hair, doing your best to detangle it. You put away your things and head to the bathroom for a fit check.
Walking down the hallway to the bathroom you bump shoulders with a woman.
“Hey, flunky.” She sneers
Casey.
You ignore her and keep trucking to the bathroom, fixing your shirt in the mirror, blotting out the slight coffee stain at the hem of your button up. Your eyes glue to the reflection behind you. Casey had entered the bathroom after you, eager to gloat about her acceptance to Professor Jinn’s permanent program.
“Heard you got fired. Awww so sad.” She fake boo hoos, making a comically sad face.
“Leave me alone Casey, please.”
Casey pokes you, prodding at your outfit.
“No wonder you got fired, always late, and can never put together a coherent outfit. We knew you weren't a fit from day one.” She sighs arrogantly.
Fuck it, you had already been basically fired.
“You know what Casey?” You say, turning to face her. “Fuck you and the high bantha you rode in on. Everyone in the department knows those bruises on your knees aren't from the skating accident you claimed to have. You're here because you put your pussy on a silver platter to whomever asks for it, I’ve read your work and I’m not impressed. You're the least astute member of this department and I can tell it’ll tank with you at its head.”
Casey stood there slack jawed at your sudden outburst of confidence. You turn on your heel, exiting the bathroom, before popping your head back in at a dumbfounded Casey.
“Respectfully, have a horrible fucking night.”
Your chariot awaits! ;)
Perfect timing, a great way to leave such a scenario. Casey may have won the position, but at the very least you had a rich man waiting for you. You walk down the halls and finally make your way outside where the familiar Jummer awaited, Soont waiting with the door open.
“Good evening miss, Dr. Skywalker is waiting for you at his residence.” He ushers you into the hover-craft.
“Dr. Skywalker wanted me to mention that he picked the wine in the bucket just for you.” He closes the door before you could say another word, starting the drive to Anakin’s.
A smile peered across your face as the same video of Anakin welcoming his respected colleague onto the craft had shown. Once again, you turn it off and inspect the wine he set aside for you.
Blossom Wine | Sourced from the planet of Naboo
Fancy, that definitely cost more than my rent. You pour the liquid into a golden glass and settle into the leather seats. Traveling in such luxury was easy to get used to, having this everyday would be a dream. No hover-train with annoying passengers, no walking on hot temperature days, and no waiting at the hover platform.
Enjoying the ride, eventually it had stopped, the tinted windows making it almost impossible to look out. Soont makes his way over to the door, helping you step out of the craft. Awe had overtaken you once your eyes fell upon Anakin’s residence.
The sweeping landscape of his front yard was magnificent. There were plants you had never seen the likes of before, blooming and beautiful.
Guess it pays off having a successful company and a Senator ex-wife.
You walk along the path up his stairs, the stone bricks barely worn, the ornate etchings carved into the stone were seemingly in a language you did not recognize. You make your way up stopping just short of the front door, the window made of crystal. You raise your hand to knock but before you can the door begins to open.
That familiar smile beams down at you, Anakin stands there, a dish towel slung over his shoulder as you had imagined. His hair was slightly a mess, he had looked less put together than he had yesterday, but all the more charming.
“Welcome. Come in.” He steps back gesturing into the long and lavishly decorated corridor behind him.
“H-hi, wow. Nice place you got here.” You muse walking through the threshold, immediately stepping into cooler and fresher air than had been outside.
“Heh, yeah, wish I could spend more time here though, business keeps me, well, busy.”
You continue to walk until you hit an open space, the sound of children playing faintly from the other room. Anakin takes your hand guiding you into his kitchen. A marble island sat at the center of the room, at least five ovens, and two big, beautiful sinks. Although there was no fridge to be seen. Anakin could see the confusion on your face. He just silently walked up to one of the cabinets on the wall, pulling it open to reveal the hidden fridge.
“Pretty nice huh?” Anakin, cheesed, clearly proud of his abode.
“Yeah, wow. So what are we whippin up?” You ask.
He opens the freezer and pulls out some frozen bags of vegetables, tater tots, and chicken nuggets.
“The twins love this meal, and they think I spend so much time making it.” He chuckles. “Little do they know…”
You both let out a hearty laugh.
“Okay, you’ve got to be joking right? There is no way you make that for your kids.”
He looks at you a little dumbfounded. “What do you mean? I make this almost every night.”
Disbelief washed over you, you glance around the residence. “I mean, you live in this house, you're fabulously wealthy, and you serve your kids frozen food every night?”
He stood still for a second, embarrassment washing over him. “Well when you put it like that…”
“Look, I apologize, I didn’t mean to judge. It’s just, you could afford a personal chef that would give your children hearty and balanced meals, and instead you give them this?”
“Wow, you sound just like Padmé.” He grumbles under his breath.
“Who?”
“Nevermind.” He shakes his head and clears his throat.
“Well, if you don’t want to heat up some frozen nuggets, what do you suggest we make instead?” He leans against the counter, watching you.
You stop and think for a minute, pondering the options.
“How about some pasta? Easy enough, and I’m sure you have all the ingredients.”
A big smile displayed on his face. “Isn’t pasta considered a romantic dish?” He steps closer to you, a smirk forming.
You giggle. “Way more romantic than frozen nuggets and vegetables.”
A laugh falls from his lips. “I suppose you’re right about that.” Anakin continues to move closer to you. “How do we get this started?”
You clasp your hands together, surveying the kitchen like a head chef. “First let’s make sure we have all the ingredients.”
“We’ll need tomatoes, tomato paste, eggs, flour, olive oil, and some seasonings… Where would I find all of that?”
Anakin stands up straight from the counter. “Let me show you around.”
Anakin takes his time in showing you each nook and cranny of his kitchen. Trying to impress you with all his fancy kitchen gadgets that he has never used a day in his life. You were especially fond of his chocolate fountain, hopefully he has strawberries for dessert.
“Alright I think we got everything, have you made spaghetti before?” You ask, hoping he has some experience in cooking.
“A little,” he admits. ”But, am I wrong to assume that I have a spectacular teacher in front of me?”
You laugh, shaking your head at him. “You're lucky I’m the best cook I know.”
“Lead the way, Chef.” He smiles
You smile back, feeling grateful that he has relinquished control of his kitchen to you tonight. You lay out the ingredients needed to make a quick pasta, you knew the dough would have to rest so you started on it first. You instruct Anakin on flour measurements, searching his kitchen cupboards and drawers, finding a fancy sifting device.
“Didn't even know we owned one of those.” Anakin guffawed at the contraption, testing it a few times before pouring in the instructed amount of flour.
Ultimately he made a mess spilling some of it in the process, you laugh as a plume of flour erupts in his face leaving a few pale white spots along the skin of his nose and forehead.
“You think that's funny?” He asks smirking at you, his fingers dipped into the pile that has amassed on the counter.
He flicks the powder at you, snickering as he does so. You laugh and half choke on the dry air, flicking more back at him in retaliation.
He puts his hands up in surrender, his face almost a clown white, your hair mirrors his, now looking a chalky grey color. You both erupt into laughter, doubling over in front of the kitchen island.
All of a sudden a small mess of sandy brown locks appears over the edge of it, a fit of childish giggling followed. Anakin immediately snaps to attention, his eyes quickly following the boy as the rest of his head popped up from behind the counter. Anakin takes a small but measured step away from you.
“Are you playing hoth fighters without me?” He asked playfully, toddling around the counter towards his dad.
“Oh, no. Sorry bud.” Anakin scoops the boy into his arms, settling him on his hip. “We were just making dinner.”
The boy looks at his father confused. “This isn't nuggies.” He paws at the flour on his dads face, rubbing it between his fingers.
Shame washes over Anakin once more. A light blush gracing the tips of his ears.
“Thought we might shake it up tonight, huh, what d’ya say, champ?”
Luke puzzled for a moment, assessing the litany of ingredients you had set out on the counter.
“Dad, I think it's gonna be…” He makes a pinching motion with his fingers, leaving a tiny space between. “This delicious.”
Anakin sets Luke back down on the floor, kneeling down to his eye level.
“How about this? We at least try it tonight and I’ll let you stay up to play with your toys.”
The boy’s eyes lit up at the notion, nodding fervently.
“And…” Anakin continues, ruffling the boy's hair gently. “If you get your sister in on it, I'll give both of you ice cream for dessert.”
“With chocolate too?” Luke asked.
Anaking chuckled, shaking his head in disbelief, but answered nodding.
“Yes, with chocolate too.”
“All right!” The boy exclaims before taking off in the direction of his room to go spread the good news.
You can't help but let out a small laugh after he leaves in a hurry.
“Cute kid.” You smile, drumming your fingertips on the counter.
Anakin nods, chuckling a bit. “Yeah, he takes after his father.”
“That was Luke by the way, my girl is Leia, they're twins. I’m sure she’ll be seeing us in no time, once her brother spreads the good word on potential ice cream.”
Anakin had a glow about him when he talked about his kids, there was no doubt in your mind that he had love for them.
You work together, quickly incorporating the rest of the dough ingredients, leaving Anakin to knead the dough, wondering if his rich boy biceps could handle it.
He worked his hands into the mixture with less grace than you would have, but he was trying. His fingers were coated in gold-toned dust, bits of dough clinging to the ridges of his knuckles. You stood beside him now, your hip brushing his, as you reached for the olive oil, watching the muscles in his forearm coil and shift beneath his skin.
His arms were ridiculous, tanned, dusted with a few faint scars that only made them more distracting. When he rolled his wrist to fold the dough, you caught the curve of his bicep pressing against the fabric of his shirt, stretching the seam just slightly.
The tuck and fold went on for minutes, but felt so brief as you had lost yourself in the tense push and pull of his muscles.
You decidedly rip your eyes away when he completes his last fold, and continue the task at hand.
“Let’s get the sauce started. Are you familiar with marinara meat sauce?” You ask, making your way to the sink, washing off the flour.
“I’ve definitely eaten it, it’s very delicious.” He walks next to you, washing himself as well.
“I suppose that means you’re not very familiar with cooking it…” You sigh, how could a man with such a kitchen rarely cook in it?
“Alright, it’s really simple. We just need to blend all the ingredients and then bring them to a simmer on the stovetop.”
“Sounds easy enough.” Anakin gets to work, chopping and adding everything to the blender while you check on the dough.
“The dough looks good, could use about twenty minutes to rest before we can roll and cut. How’s the sauce coming?”
“Ready to blend!” Before you could process anything further, Anakin starts the blender without placing the lid on top.
“Wait!” You attempt to stop him before it's too late, but Anakin quickly realizes his mistake as the ingredients fly out of the blender.
Chunks of vegetables and juices alike found their way onto the floor, countertops, and Anakin’s face. He immediately stops the blender, feeling sheepish.
“Well, I suppose it would have been nice to place the lid, wouldn't it?” He snickers, attempting to bring light to the huge mess that has been bestowed upon the both of you.
“This is going to be a long night…” You sigh, and start to pick up the pieces of vegetables around the kitchen.
You glance over to Anakin, and see traces of tomato juice on his face. You laugh, walking towards him.
“You got a little-” You say, pointing to his face.
“Oh really?” He tries to clean blindly, missing any crucial spot.
“Here let me help.” You take the nearest kitchen towel and get to work. Delicately wiping away any remnants of tomato juice. He watches your concentrated expression softly, admiring every second. Resisting a smile.
“There, that should do it!” You stand confidently, admiring your work and realize Anakin is already staring at you.
“You are so-” Ankain was cut off by the screams of children.
“ICE CREAAAM!” Screams a small girl as her little feet pitter patter down the hallway at mach speed. Luke on her tail.
The two kids come rushing into the kitchen, excitement teeming in their tiny voices. They don't see the mess right away, tunnel visioned on treat potential. They both barrel in, feet sliding against the wet marble flooring of the kitchen. Neither child comes to a stop until smacking straight into the kitchen cabinets. The cabinets making a loud crack noise as the impact of their bodies hit against the wood, both children fall onto their bottoms.
An immediate eruption of tears, it doesn't take long for the both of them to begin screaming. Luke keeps himself planted on the floor as he begins to cry, Leia sitting up rubbing her forehead.
You and Anakin spring into action, quickly getting to the kids and assessing them for damage. You check Luke first, cradling him in your arms as he cries.
“Hey bud, that hurt huh, are you okay? Where does it hurt?” You ask him, rubbing soothing circles into his back.
He sniffles and buries his face into your shoulder continuing to cry. There were no visible cuts on him, but a red welt had begun to form on his arm where the cabinet door had pinched it.
Anakin assessed Leia, the same as you had. She had stopped crying now, struggling to get out of her fathers arm. He lets her down, she wipes her puffy eyes and runs for her brother, checking to see if he was okay.
You place Luke on the floor, sitting with him till the tears stop. Anakin also rushed over, concern creasing his brow. You hold up Luke’s arm showing Anakin the forming bruise. He gasps quietly and takes Luke from you.
“Buddy, did you get an ouchie?” Anakin asks.
Luke nods at his dad, lip in a pout.
“Is it an ouch that ice cream could fix?” Anakin asks, cradling Luke, a gentle smile on his face.
Leia pipes up as joy sparks behind Luke’s eyes. “Yes!”
Anakin finds his way to the freezer while still holding a forty-pound toddler on his hip.
“Now, I'll give you both the good ice cream if we don’t tell mommy what happened. Got it?” He remarks sternly.
“Tell mommy about our ouchies or this lady?” Leia asks as Luke climbs off him. The toddlers look at you with curiosity, never having a proper introduction to them.
“How about both? I’ll give the two of you an extra scoop!” Anakin charms, trying to get the children to comply.
“Ok!” They both agree and find their seats on the island while Anakin pulls out elegant ice cream bowls.
“Who is this lady anyways?” Luke asks, looking at you suspiciously, as if he wasn’t crying in your arms a second ago.
“Luke, Leia, this is Y/N.” Anakin gestures towards you as you awkwardly wave ‘hi’ in front of the children.
“Are you on a date?” Leia asks, “You’ve been so sad since mommy broke up with you! You need a new woman.” She continued, leaving her father embarrassed.
“Yeah, maybe you wouldn't cry when you're in bed as often!” Luke chimes in, both of them laughing towards each other.
Anakin shoots them both a look that could kill. “That’s enough you two, or I won’t add chocolate syrup to your bowls!”
“NO!” They both scream, regretting their words. You couldn’t help but laugh at the whole ordeal. Just the day before you thought of Anakin as a smug crypto mogul, but now you see him for what he truly is. A sweet, charming man, who loves being a dad, and probably resents his ex wife.
Anakin continues to work on their ice cream as the children interrogate you. “So… Y/N… do you think my daddy is… handsome?” Leia asks, investigating you closely.
“Uhh,” you pause, looking at Anakin, eyes pleading for an out, but he never gives you one.
“I think other people think he’s very handsome, yes.” You answer.
Leia didn't look amused but didn't push any further as Anakin set down their ice cream bowl in front of them, promptly quieting the children. They both pay you no further mind as they eagerly tuck into their bowls, a chocolate mess adorning their satisfied faces. The twins give each other a knowing look, smiling over their sweet treat.
You move to clean up the remnants of food on the floor, so no more accidents occur. Anakin gets to work cleaning the countertops, refilling the blender with ingredients. You rush over to him, setting the lid firmly on the blender, giving him a wink.
“Guys, loud noise.” He says looking toward his preoccupied twins.
They both nod, Leia covering her ears. Luke, not caring, showed his dad a reassuring thumbs up before Anakin turned on the blender once more. Pureeing the sauce.
The kids finished their bowls of ice cream, wiping their faces with a nearby kitchen towel. They both climb down from their chairs before moseying back to their room.
Unbeknownst to you and Anakin the kids give each other a celebratory high five when they arrive back to their safe haven.
“Told ya I would get us ice cream before dinner.” Luke snickers, rubbing his sore arm.
Back in the kitchen. You brown the meat on Anakin’s stove, before allowing him to pour in the sauce at last, seasoning it to perfection. Even after a few kerfuffles, dinner was coming along nicely. All you needed at last was a pot to boil for the noodles and you’d all be feasting in no time.
Anakin worked away, rolling out and cutting the noodles. You were sure he had an extruder somewhere in the room he had deemed a “butler's pantry”. But he insisted he hand cut them.
“Where do you keep the plates? I’ll set the table.” You ask.
“Allow me to assist you.” He quickly cleans his hands before pulling out two plates from one of his many kitchen cupboards, retrieving two suction cup bowls from the drying rack next to the sink.
Navigating to the sliding drawer with utensils, he pulls out two regular forks and two, tiny, colorful forks. You both make your way to the dining room, setting the table with the plates, forks, and some napkins.
“I can whip up a quick salad, as long as you have some lettuce.” You muse, looking at the bare table.
“Sure do. I also have something I want to add.” He smirks, leading you back into the kitchen. Pulling out all of the ingredients to make a simple salad, the smile never ceases. Then, he opens the freezer and pulls out a box of frozen garlic bread. Turning to you, giving you a pleased smirk, revealing his bread.
A sigh left your lips. “You never cease to surprise me Anakin…”
“What, now having frozen garlic bread is a crime?” Laughter erupts from the both of you, he turns to one of his five ovens and heats it.
“Should be ready by the time the pasta is done boiling.”
You give him a questioning look. “How, won’t it take some time for the oven to warm up?”
He chortles. “Sweetheart, you forget I have money. These ovens reach temperature as soon as you turn them on.”
A frown fell on your face. “Well excuse me Mr. Crypto Coin.” You mock him, facial expression matching.
You work on chopping the ingredients for a salad, placing them in an ornately carved bowl Anakin dubbed “The salad bowl of all time.”
Anakin places the toast slices on a sheet pan before setting them in the oven. Only to take out perfectly toasted bread in mere minutes.
Dinner was finally complete. Anakin takes a moment to absorb the look of a homemade meal on his table once more. He hadn't had much variety since Padmé left, it was a welcome sight. He glances up seeing your face haloed by the crystalline light that the chandelier over the table cast across your face. You looked radiant. His eyes drift towards the twins room, he would call them now that dinner was ready.
You stood there watching as different emotions washed over Anakin’s features. A yearning type of sadness with underlying gratitude. He walked swiftly towards the twin’s room, knocking on their door as he walked in. They lay in a heap of their toys and stuffed animals, sleeping soundly. Anakin chuckles to himself before picking up each child, laying them in their respective beds, giving each a kiss before closing their door.
He walks back to the dining room, a slight smile on his face.
“Sugar crash, they're out cold.” He laughs quietly.
“Guess it's just us then.” He says collecting the toddler sized plates and utensils from the table.
“Well, at least they're okay now.” You smile, taking your seat at the dining table.
Anakin follows suit, sitting directly in front of you, serving bowls on the table. Anakin serves you some salad, before doing the same for himself.
He continues to serve you before himself until both your plates are full of food. Anakin waits for you to start eating first before he does.
Once his taste buds finally collide with the pasta, he lets out a moan from how delicious it was.
“Kriff, maker!” He eats the spaghetti, as if it was his first meal in days.
“This is incredible, you’re an amazing chef!” The food continued to disappear into his mouth like a vacuum cleaner, while gripping the fork like a toddler. Guess Luke and Leia rubbed off on him.
“Well, takes practice, but when you’re poor, sometimes you have no choice but to cook with what you have.” A chuckle follows, as you gracefully eat the meal in front of you.
“I should invite you over to cook more often, I could eat this every night.”
“I really appreciate all the compliments… but being a full time student, and working, nope, wait.” You felt stupid, forgetting you had been fired from a lack of punctuality just hours before.
“What are we waiting for?” Anakin asks, curious, wanting to know what could keep you from being his personal chef.
“It's nothing, just, had a rough day is all… and I guess I got fired. So technically, I don't work anymore!” You fake chuckle, attempting to put on a brave face.
“Wait, fired? How? Why? Do I need to have a word with Professor Jinn? I’ll call him right now-” Anakin fumbles in his pants pocket, trying to grip his holo-phone with marinara hands. Attempting not to get the holo-phone or his pants dirty.
“No please Anakin, you don’t need to do that.” A long sigh follows. “It’s my fault, really. I should have been on time, today, and yesterday, and the day before that, and, well… you get it.”
A pitiful expression fell on his face. “Not to prod, but, why are you always late?”
You felt attacked. “What?”
“Sorry, I didn’t mean to be rude, just asking.” He attempts to hide his embarrassment with another fork full of pasta.
“You know, not everyone can get personally escorted to places they need to be.” Growing angry, you set your fork down. “I have the hover-train to rely on for transportation, you know how awful that is? Half the time, it's late or too crowded so I have to wait. Or sometimes I’m just so exhausted I can’t bring myself to make it to places in a timely manner. I don’t think you know what it’s like having twelve-hour days half of the week!” You snap.
Stunned to silence, Anakin just stares at you from the other side of the table. He looked apologetic but didnt know what to say to help in this situation.
The echoing silence made you realize what you had just done, an embarrassed flush washing over your face. Your outburst was heavily impolite and it showed all over Anakin's demeanour.
“Sorry, I just- Sorry.” You apologize, your face falling, eyes training on your half empty plate of food.
Anakin tried to make it better in the only way he knew he could.
“Work for me, I can offer you a full time internship. After you finish your degree, I would gladly take you on in a permanent position.” He offers, clasping his hands, looking at you expectantly.
“I- Anakin, I don't know what to say.” You admit, still embarrassed from your outburst.
“Say yes, and you can start tomorrow, paid double whatever the university is- er was paying you.”
This offer you simply couldn't refuse, not in the position you were in anyway. Without this, you could be homeless. With this, you would have job security again, solidifying your future.
You breathed heavily. “Yeah, okay.”
“Then it's settled, I'll send you the schedule tonight, you shadow me tomorrow. I'll show you what it's really like to be me.” He grins.
The tension in the room easing as you felt relief from the tumultuous events of today. You go to speak, to thank Anakin, but are interrupted by the sound of the front door opening.
Anakin’s face grew white, his eyes expanding. “Kriff…”
An angry shout is heard from the entryway. “ANAKIN!” Heavy footsteps make their way into the dinning room.
“Hey Padmé, you’re home…” Nervously he collects himselfs and stands up a little too fast, knocking his chair to the ground.
“Anakin, care to explain what this woman is doing in this house with my children?” She turns to face you, giving you an appalled up and down.
“Who do you think you are, working your way into my children’s life like this?” You stood shocked, not knowing what to say.
“I’m sorry, I should go, it’s getting pretty late.” You quickly get up from your seat, cleaning up your plate.
“Yeah.” Padmé mocks, rolling her eyes.
“Anakin, I need to speak with you, right now.” She pulls his arm, leading him to the patio that was a few feet away from the table. She slams the sliding door shut. Despite the thick doors, you could still hear their voices as you hid in the dining room doorway.
“Anakin, what are you doing? Why is there a stranger in this house?” She pesters, anger written all over her face.
“Padmé, I’m sorry, listen it’s not like that. She’s a colleague, it’s really not what you think.” He holds his hands up in defense as he stumbles over his words.
“Why are you bringing coworkers to this house for dinner? Last time you did this, she was a little more than a “colleague.” Finger quotations accentuated her anger.
“That was one time! And she came onto me!” Continuing to try and win a losing battle, he sighs.
“I apologize. I should have warned you she was coming over. I know how you get with the kids…” Pinching his nose, another sigh follows suit.
“And I’m sorry for barging in like that, I could have scared the children.” Padmé continues to ponder. “Speaking of, where are they? I haven’t seen them all day.” A smile forms on her face, a perfect contrast from her mood just seconds ago.
“Sound asleep! They had dinner by the way, and no dessert!” He lied through his teeth and she knew it.
“Right, that’s why they texted me about ice cream and a lady in the house…” She folds her arms and taps her foot.
He scoffs to himself. “Those damn rascals.”
Someone is definitely losing their holo-pad privileges.
You gather your things quickly, not needing to bear witness to whatever dynamic they had going on. You navigate your way through the house, to the front door, making your way back out to the driveway where Soont had dropped you off. But there was no car waiting. Ugh. You realize you don't have a way home, the nearest hover-train station is too far for your liking, you take your holo-phone out, thumb brushing over the screen. A thought to call someone, anyone, crossed your mind but, you settled on an Oobar instead. You had a job tomorrow, you could afford to pay for this ride.
Anakin cleans his kitchen in silence as Padmé sits in the den still upset, ruminating on the situation. He puts the food away, reminiscing about the fun he had while cooking with you, smiling to himself. He then lets out a sigh remembering the whole reason he invited you over. Your ring, it lay tucked in his left pocket.
Your Oobar arrives in record time, you were grateful not to be wrapped up in ex marital fights, you had enough of that growing up. Settling in the vehicle, you take one last longing glance at Anakin’s house. Hoping for a better day tomorrow.
Summary: When a break in leaves you vulnerable a familiar stranger takes you in
Chapter Summary: Joel ruminates, delicious breakfast, and a pretty good clean up job.
Pairing: DBF!Joel Miller x F!Reader ~ No Outbreak AU
Word Count: 7,141
Warnings: Language, alcohol, panic attack, military, and cigarettes
Author: Barnes
Your soft, steady breathing filled the room, occasionally with the faintest rumbling snore. The sound was strangely comforting to Joel, a reminder that you were here, safe, and sound, as sound as you could be anyway.
He had hurriedly thrown on a shirt after tucking you in. Joel leaned back in the old armchair by the bed, one ankle resting on his knee, arms folded over his chest, though his posture was anything but relaxed.
The window remains open despite the incessant chirping of a cricket outside. It had crossed his mind more than once to get up and shut it, but the night air was the only thing keeping him from dozing off. That, and the thoughts churning in his head.
Joel stared at the shadowed ceiling, face creasing as a light grimace lay on his features. The night had unraveled in ways he never expected. One minute he was waiting for the delivery boy, the next he was holding you in his arms while you panicked and sobbed on his bathroom floor. And God, he still felt your weight against his chest. Your breath against his skin. The way you'd just folded into him. No fight. No words. Just trust. You had trusted him, in your most vulnerable moment.
His gaze drifted to you again, curled beneath his comforter, hair spread across his pillow like a halo. Vulnerable in a way that made his chest ache.
You reminded him so much of her. The resemblance wasn’t just physical, though that was there too. It was in your spirit. The way you persevere, the pride in your silence. But it was more than that. It was the feeling deep in his stomach.
Them damn butterflies.
He hadn’t felt them well over two decades, not since the days when he’d sneak glances across the table just to watch her tuck her hair behind her ear. He felt it again now, stronger than he’d like to admit, every time your eyes met his and lingered just a moment too long. The look you gave him earlier when he had gotten out of the shower, you were shy, disarmed. It almost made him feel twenty again.
He shifted, elbows digging into his knees as he leaned forward, putting his face in his hands. Protective wasn’t even the word. It scared the hell out of him to think about what the right word was. So he didn't.
You weren’t her. You were your own woman, grown, stubborn, smart. He could tell. But in the quiet moments like this, when the night falls still and all that remained was you sleeping soundly in his bed, he let himself feel it. The ache. The fear. The loneliness.
He recollected the memory of a night similarly traumatizing to this one. He got up and silently rummaged around one of his drawers, producing an old polaroid. On the back in various signatures was written ‘Joel’ in his familiar chicken scratch alongside other names, ‘Tommy, Danny’ His eyes pause for a moment taking in the perfectly written ‘Pam’ with a smiley face next to her name. A smile crossed his lips faintly as he sat back down, polaroid in hand. That night, things changed forever.
2002 - Padre Island, TX
The sunlight beat down on four adults as they descended to the beach from their shitty cabin rental on the south side of the island. The facilities hadn’t been around since the 70s but they didn't care much. Just friends looking for somewhere to store their belongings while they still had time to spend together. Although, Joel and Tommy had known why Dan chose this spot for their group vacation.
To pop the question at last.
The tide rolled in slow, a steady rhythm beneath the bursts of laughter echoing from where Tommy and Danny tossed a football back and forth on the shore.
Joel sat back in the sand, elbows planted behind him, a cold beer sweating in one hand. His boots were off, jeans rolled up past his ankles, toes buried beneath the warm grit of the sand. He wasn't much of a beach guy, not really, but something about the way the sun hit the water made the world all the more beautiful. It was moments like these, he really cherished.
Pam was down by the water, the wind tugging at the hem of her white linen dress. She was laughing at something Danny had said, head tilted back, eyes closed, mouth open. Joel could hear it, even from where he sat. That laugh. Bright and buoyant.
She turned then, as if she felt him watching, and waved. Just a casual flick of the wrist, eyes squinting against the sun. He raised his beer in a lazy salute, heart stuttering like a teenage boy’s.
Tommy plopped down beside him with a grunt, cracking open his own bottle. “You’re burnin’.” He said, pointing to Joel’s exposed shoulders.
Joel shrugged. “I’ll be fine.”
Tommy smirked, glancing down the beach toward Pam and Danny, now walking hand in hand. “You ever gonna tell her?”
Joel didn’t answer. He just drank, watching the two.
That night, the salty air lingered long after the sun dipped below the horizon. Several Polaroids were taken by Pam, she had this ever present need to document everything. The firepit crackled as they grilled the last of the hot dogs, the scent of smoke and charred meat clinging to their clothes. Music played low on the little radio Danny brought, some old country mix, the scratched cd kept skipping but no one seemed to mind.
Pam sat beside Joel on the sand, blanket wrapped tight around her shoulders. Her knees bumped against his as she laughed at one of Tommy’s stories, her face still flushed from the day’s sun.
Joel could barely keep his eyes on her. Every time she leaned close, every time she brushed against him, he felt shame coil tightly in his chest.
Danny stood to grab another beer from the cooler, and Pam leaned closer, voice low.
“He’s acting weird.” She said with a soft smile.
Joel’s mouth went dry.
“Yeah?” He said, careful not to spoil the inevitable surprise.
“Yeah,” she chuckled. “I think he’s nervous. He never stops talking when he’s nervous.”
Joel looked down at the bottle in his hand, fingers clenching a little tighter around the glass. He knew what was coming.
Pam sighed, resting her chin on her knees. “It’s sweet, though.”
Then came the moment; the moment that branded Joel’s brain like a hot iron.
When she stood and skipped down to the shore alone. The blanket trailing behind her like a cape, footprints pressed deep into the wet sand. The tide had started creeping in again, nipping at her ankles, but she didn’t mind. The moon hung low over the water, casting a silver sheen that made the whole beach glow like something out of a dream.
Joel saw Danny rise just moments after her. No hesitation. He brushed the sand off his shorts, gave Tommy and Joel a quick glance that said this is it, and jogged after her, barefoot, buzzing with nerves.
Joel didn’t move. He couldn't. The bottle in his hand felt suddenly brittle, like it might shatter from the grip he had on it. His heart thudded slow and deep, already knowing what was coming.
Tommy settled beside him again, quiet this time. He didn’t say a word. Just leaned forward, elbows on his knees, eyes tracking the silhouettes ahead as Danny caught up to her.
They watched together.
Danny reached her just as she stopped to look out at the ocean. Pam turned, and he said something, words lost to the distance. She laughed again, the sound faint under the crash of waves, he then dropped to one knee.
Joel’s breath caught. The world around him seemed to pause. The music from the little radio warbled out into the night. He felt far away, like this moment belonged in someone else's memory.
Danny held out the ring, hand shaking. Pam didn’t cover her mouth or gasp. She didn’t cry. She just smiled that big, bright, heart-wringing smile and nodded feverently.
Even from far away, Joel could see it. The way she reached for him, pulled him to his feet, kissed him with both hands cradling his jaw.
Tommy let out a low breath and clapped a hand on Joel’s shoulder. “You need a drink, huh?”
Joel didn’t answer, still partially paralyzed by the feeling running him ragged. He just watched as Danny lifted her into the air, spinning her in the moonlight, their laughter tangled with the rushing of the sea.
He swallowed hard, jaw clenched. His eyes never left her.
She looked radiant. Happy.
The ring sparkled as she pulled Danny down for another kiss, her arms around his neck, the hem of her dress fluttering in the wind. Joel stayed rooted in the sand, the firelight flickering behind him, the warmth on his back doing nothing for the cold settling in his chest.
Pam and Danny came racing back up the beach like kids, hand in hand, grinning like they’d stolen the heart of the sea. Danny’s shirt was untucked, hair wild from the wind, but his face was pure light. Pam clung to his arm, barefoot, her dress soaked up to the knees, her blanket cape flapping in the breeze, the diamond on her finger glittering in the firelight with every step, as did her eyes.
Joel and Tommy stood as they approached. Tommy was the first to yell.
“Well I’ll be damned! Look at you two!” He whooped, throwing his arms up like they’d just scored a touchdown. “Did you say yes or is he just runnin’ on adrenaline?”
Pam laughed breathlessly, holding up her left hand for them to see. The ring sat perfectly on her finger, fitting like it had always belonged there.
“I said yes!” She beamed, glowing from more than just the moonlight.
Danny puffed his chest a little, pride shining through the nerves. “She said yes.” He echoed, voice shaking with awe.
Joel swallowed hard and forced a smile. He clapped a hand on Danny’s shoulder, firm and warm, the same way he had a hundred times before. “Good man,” he said, voice even. Then he turned to Pam, eyes lingering just a beat too long. “He’s lucky to have ya.”
Pam’s smile softened, but she didn’t say anything, just nodded gratefully.
“Hey, I’m gonna turn in.” Joel added, backing away before the warmth in his voice could betray him. “Long drive, sun’s fried my brain.”
Tommy blinked at him. “You sure? I was about to crack open that bottle of bourbon.”
“Go ‘head and enjoy.” Joel said, already halfway to the door, throwing the group a nod in the process. “Y’all celebrate. Have one for me.”
He was met with brief protest from the group but they relented as he disappeared inside the cabin.
Sleep didn’t come. He laid in the dark with his arms crossed behind his head, staring at the ceiling fan spinning lazy circles overhead, heart pounding. He could hear laughter outside, the low rumble of Danny’s voice, Pam’s high one cutting through like music. He couldn’t shut it out.
Whether hours had gone by Joel was unsure, but the cabin was quiet now. Everyone had gone to bed. He padded barefoot through the hall, moving to the small kitchen lit only by the pale blue of the moon through the window above the sink. He didn’t turn on the lights. Just stood there with a glass in his hand, running cold tap water over his wrists to cool the heat pooling in his veins before filling his cup.
The sound of footsteps made him turn. Pam stood in the doorway, hair tousled from sleep, wearing a worn T-shirt and cotton shorts. The ring still glittered on her finger.
“I thought I heard someone.” She whispered, stepping in. “Couldn’t sleep either?”
Joel shook his head, not trusting himself to speak, taking a tentative sip of water. He filled another glass and handed it to her, their fingers brushing for the briefest second.
She leaned against the counter beside him, sipping slowly, eyes fixed on the dark beach outside. “It still doesn’t feel real,” she murmured.
Joel nodded. “He’s lucky.”
“You said that already,” she said, glancing sideways at him. A shadow of a smile playing on her lips.
He swallowed, jaw tight. “I meant it both times.”
She set the glass down, the silence settling thick between them. When she turned to face him fully, he couldn’t look away. The kitchen felt smaller somehow like the space between them compacted.
“Joel,” she said gently. “What’s on your mind?”
He stared at her, heart thudding so loud he was sure she could hear it. And then he broke.
“I should’ve told you,” he said, voice rough, low. “Back then. Before you met him. Before all this.”
Pam’s eyes widened slightly, but she didn’t speak.
“I loved you,” Joel continued. The words dragging out like a wound reopening. “Still do, I think. Hell, I know I do.”
Her breath hitched. “Joel…”
“I ain’t sayin’ this to mess things up.” He said quickly, hands flexing at his sides. “I just… couldn’t let the night pass without you knowin’. Even if it’s too late.”
She stared at him for a short, silent moment. The refrigerator hummed. A dog barked somewhere far off. The rest of the world kept turning. And then Pam reached out and grabbed his arm like a vice.
“How dare you.” She whispered, her expression twisted in shock, voice sharp and cutting, though it barely rose above a whisper. Her fingers dug into the muscle of his forearm, tighter than she likely meant. Hurt flickered through her gaze, eclipsing the tenderness she’d always worn so easily around him.
Joel flinched at the words, at the raw betrayal in her tone. His mouth went dry, heart thudding almost painfully against his ribcage.
“You don't get to do this.” Pam continued, each word slow and deliberate, venom laced in heartbreak. “Not now, not ever, Joel Miller.”
He opened his mouth, whether to defend himself or to beg forgiveness he didn’t even know, but she persisted, voice cracking just slightly as she spoke.
“This was supposed to be the happiest night of my life.” She said, her hand trembling now where it clutched his arm. “Only to be trumped by my wedding day... or-or the birth of my future children.” Her throat bobbed as she swallowed, and for a moment Joel thought she might cry. She didn’t. She just stared at him, furious and heartbroken, and all he could do was stand there and take it.
Each word she spoke hit him like a hammer, driving nails straight into his chest. He felt himself shrink beneath the weight of her disappointment, shame settling like a stone deep in his gut.
“We never speak of this again.” She hissed, voice still low, still private, but cutting through him sharper than any yell could. She released his arm, like she was holding a hot coal, taking a step back.
Joel remained rooted to his spot, unable to move, unable to look away from her tear rimmed eyes and the angry flush rising to her cheeks.
She shook her head once, then turned and walked away towards the bathroom, her retreating footsteps soft but final against the worn, sand burdened, wooden floors of the cabin.
Joel was left standing alone in the kitchen. He pressed his palms to the counter, bowing his head. Letting out a deep sigh, sitting with the weight of his decisions.
The silence afterward was almost deafening.
He barely slept, tossing and turning restlessly throughout the night. What little rest he got was tortured with dreams of what happened the night prior, her voice, the grip on his arm, the betrayal in her eyes.
The next morning, Joel lay stiff on the thin mattress, eyes fixed on the wooden slats of the cabin ceiling. His heart pounded so hard he thought it might come through his chest.
He expected the confrontation. The fallout. A biting silence at the breakfast table. Maybe Danny's fist meeting his teeth. Something.
But it never came.
Pam didn't say a word about it. Not that morning. Not as they packed up the car and drove hours back home.
Not ever.
She smiled gently when setting down his coffee like she always did. Laughed at Tommy’s stupid jokes. Leaned into Danny's shoulder, hanging off of him as if nothing changed. But it had, Joel knew it had. He felt it like a burr stuck in his skin. There was something to the way her eyes skipped over his now. The stiffness of her posture when she passed him. How her laughter never quite graced him the same way after that trip.
She kept her word. They never spoke of it again.
Pam and Danny got married that fall, had an outdoor ceremony, under a beautifully autumn-touched tree. The red and golds contrast with the pristine white of her dress. Joel wore a fancy button up and a stiff smile.
He stood at the end of the line of groomsmen, not quite close enough to matter but not far enough to be absent. He gave a toast he barely remembered, said all the right things, singing praises to the beautiful relationship in front of him. He danced with someone's grandma. He went home alone.
Then came the baby. A little girl with Pam's dimples and Danny's infectious smile. Joel brought a teddy bear to the hospital. Pam had hugged him when he arrived but the embrace was fleeting, like trying to recall a memory years after it passed.
That last year was the hardest. A slow fizzling of friendship, like a flat coke. And little by little, the calls came less often. The cookouts stopped. Texts turned to radio silence.
Pam never said why, never gave Joel a reason for phasing him out. Didn't have to, they both knew. That moment in the kitchen lingering like smoke, clinging to everything even after the fire had ceased.
Joel never reconciled, never chased them down. He let it happen, the consequences of his actions rightfully catching up to him.
Deep down he knew there wasn't anything to drive them apart.
Anything except the truth, and he had already let it out, once.
Joel blinks away the memory burning in his chest.
Your snoring reminds him of where he was. Not at that beach or in that cabin, not in that kitchen, no longer beside her. Not for a long time.
He sighs, brushing his fingers over the worn edges of the photo. He looks at it one last time before socking it back away in his drawer where he kept the rest of his past.
You stirred once, tangled in the sheets, your breaths steady, still lost to slumber.
Joel settled, his worn body aching under the weight of the memories and a feeling he couldn't begin to unearth without a fresh pack of cigarettes and a fifth of dark liquor. He kept his eyes on you until they grew heavy.
He was the first to wake. Sunlight filtered into the room behind the half closed blinds. Birdsong and the rustling of leaves filled the space.
His neck screamed the moment he shifted, his back aching from hours spent in the chair. He blinked groggily, rubbing the sleep from his eyes. Stiff fingers raking down his exhausted face.
His eyes fell on you. Still tucked into bed, sleeping soundly. Laying on your side, lashes outlined against your cheeks. You look at peace. That eased the ache.
Joel sat there for a long moment, just watching. Afraid that if he made a sound it would wake you. He didn't want that just yet, he wasn't sure what today would bring for you, so he let you rest.
You woke slowly, blinking against the bright light, streaming in from a few broken blinds. For a moment you forgot where you were, the feeling of the warm sheets, the faint smell of detergent, and the puffiness of your face reminded you. You were in Joel's room. You look towards the worn leather chair next to the bed, half disappointed it lacked a presence.
You sat up slowly, rubbing sleep from your eyes. The room was generally quiet, except for the faint sound of clinking dishes down the hall and the muffled hiss of a skillet.
You notice your duffel bag, tucked neatly in the corner beside the dresser. He must've brought it in sometime during the night.
You felt a swell of gratitude, both for the small gesture and for tucking you in last night.
Slipping out of bed, you walk over digging through your things, producing a fresh pair of jeans, a tank top, and a toiletry bag. You were thankful you hadn’t unpacked it from your last vacation, the travel bottles still about half full, enough for a shower or two.
A wave of anxiety began to creep in as you moved to the bathroom. You had to call your parents today. There was no way around it, avoiding it any longer wasn't going to make anything better.
The thought sat heavily in your stomach as you stripped and turned on the shower, stepping inside.
The warm water streamed over your skin, you let it run for a moment, hoping it would rinse away some of the tension lodged in your chest.
You reached for your shampoo, grateful again you had packed a full kit, because Joel, as you had discovered, on the little ledge beside the tiles, showered with a single, half used, bar of soap. No conditioner, no face wash, not even a damn rag. Just soap. You almost laughed. He's such a dude.
The steam swirled around you, soothing, yet the weight in your chest didn't quite relent. You closed your eyes, leaning into the spray attempting to push away the flurry of thoughts about what you were going to say to your parents. What you'd explain, what you'd leave out. Ultimately you knew you were gonna tell them the truth.
Finishing up after a few minutes, you turn off the water, stepping out of the shower. You spot the only towel hanging behind the door and begin to dry off. You were wrapping your hair when a knock came at the door.
Joel's voice followed, gentle through the veneer. “Mornin, how'd you like your eggs?”
You started slightly, then called back. “Mornin’, scrambled's good!”
“Alright,” he responds, voice trailing back toward the kitchen.
You finish quickly, pulling on your clothes, the towel adorning your head. The house smelled like bacon and toast now, warm in a way that made you think of home, worsening the dread you were feeling. You toss your dirty clothes into your duffel bag that lays on Joel’s bed, and head into the adjacent kitchen.
Joel was already at the stove when you padded in. He glanced up at you briefly, his kind eyes lingering for just a second longer than he should have, then turning back to the pan.
“Sleep okay?” He asked, setting a slice of toast on a plate.
“Yeah…” you said, “eventually. Thanks for all of… Well this.” You gesture around his house, continuing. “I'm sorry I put you through so much grief last night.”
He gave a small shrug, scrambling the eggs in the pan. “No need to apologize. You needed a place to lay your head. Wasn't a big deal.”
You sat at the small table tucked in the corner of the kitchen, fingers wrapping around the ceramic mug he set in front of you.
He set down a plate full of eggs, bacon, and toast. It was more than you were used to preparing yourself in the morning, but it was welcome nonetheless.
“You cook often?” You asked, a faint smile pulling at your lips.
“Only when someone else’s ‘round to appreciate it.” He muttered jokingly, before settling down across from you.
You ate a few bites hungrily, before setting your fork down. The tension in your stomach hasn't gone away, but it had nothing to do with the delectable meal in front of you.
“Joel, can I ask you something?” You ask, looking up from your plate.
Joel gave a cautious nod, chewing a bite of bacon. “Sure, shoot.”
“Why don't you talk to my parents anymore?” You kept your tone light, but your eyes stayed trained on him.
He didn't answer right away. Just picked up his mug and stared into it for a little too long.
“They got busy. Married, a kid… life happens.”
He looked at you briefly over the rim of his mug. “Sometimes friendships just… fade.”
You studied him. “You were in like every page of mom’s old photo book.”
“Yeeah,” Joel said, voice quieter. “I was.”
The silence stretched between you, Joel knew why he remained silent, you didn't. Although you didn't press further, mainly because you didn't want to unpack whatever baggage he held behind his eyes. At least not yet.
Instead, you looked down at your plate and nodded, tucking back into your eggs. “Guess life’s just messy like that.”
“Yeah.” He said, his voice low, “sure is.”
You push your plate forward and lean back in the chair, stomach full, towel still wrapping your hair. The silence remained companionable, but the nagging feeling was crawling along your spine.
“Joel?” You ask suddenly, breaking the silence with a furrowed brow.
“Where’s my phone? I didn't feel it in my bag.”
Joel glanced toward the counter by the fridge, nodding with his chin. “Charged it last night. It's over there.”
Sure enough, there it was, plugged into the wall, still powered off from when it died.
You stood up, walking over, unplugging it with a quiet. “Thanks,” your stomach twisting while you held down the power button.
The lock screen lit up
4 Missed Calls - Mama (3) Dad (1)
3 New Messages - Mama (2) Dad (1)
Your gut sank.
You opened the message from your mom first. It was a blurry photo taken off a TV screen. A smashed car, crumpled front bumper, doors flung open. Headlights busted out. All haloed by berries and cherries, the red and blue lights surrounding the mangled car.
Mama: [image] Hey chickadee, is this your car?? 1:48 am
Mama: Call me😟 3:42 am
You navigate over to the unopened message from your father simply reading.
Dad: Call your mother 5:47 am
You swipe back to the picture. Not realizing Joel had made his way over to you until he let out a gasp at the picture on your phone screen.
“Is that your car?” He asks, concern lacing his voice.
“Yep.” You said, popping the p. “Guess the asshole who stole it crashed it too.”
Joel's eyebrows furrowed in worry, his jaw tightening. “Jesus, are you gonna be okay callin’? Y'know explainin’ everything?”
You nodded, thumb already hovering over the phone icon in your mom's contact. “Yeah… just give me a sec.”
It took two rings for her to answer, her voice frantic.
“Hello? Hello!?” Your mom's voice rang through the phone. “Are you okay?! Where are you???”
“Mom, I'm okay.” You say quickly, already wincing. “I'm safe, I promise.”
“We've been calling you all night. Someone crashed this car that looked like a spitting image of yours. There was a police chase and we didn't know if y-”
“I know, I know,” you said. “It's okay. It wasn't me.”
She interjects “Oh well that's a relief, at least your car is safe, because I don't know how we'd-”
“Mom. Mom! It was my car.”
“What?!”
“Someone broke into my house last night. They took my car too.”
Your mom gasped. “Oh my God. Are you hurt? Why didn't you tell us sooner?”
“No, not hurt. Just shaken up. Someone took me in, I'm safe.”
“Who? A friend?”
You hesitated. “Joel. Joel Miller.”
A brief silence on the other end, then she speaks. “... Joel? Haven't heard that name in ages.”
You sighed. “Yeah. Apparently he lives across the street. He helped, took me in, let me stay the night.”
You hear your dad in the background, “Miller-time?! You're kiddin’!”
Your mom's voice softens slightly, “We haven't heard from Joel in years.” There was another moment of silence before she spoke again. “How is he?”
“I know, but uh, he's good, been really kind. You don't have to worry, okay? I just didn't want to call you in a state last night. You know how I get.”
“Well, we were worried.” She snapped, although her voice showed less concern now that she knew you were safe. “Please come home soon. We could get lunch or dinner, we miss you.”
“I will,” you promised. “Love you, mama.”
“I love you too, so does your dad.”
“Tell him, I love him too. Bye.”
“Bye”
You ended the call with a sigh, your fingers curling around your phone before sliding it back into your pocket. Joel hadn't moved far, still leaning against the counter, eyes on you.
“They okay?” He asked.
“Worried, obviously, but yeah, they're okay.”
Joel's eyebrows lifted slightly. “Parents always have this sixth sense for worry, it comes with the kid.”
You huffed a dry laugh. “Yeah. I guess they’re relieved that it wasn't me behind the wheel.”
He nodded, pushing off the counter slowly. “I’m real sorry about your place. I mean cars can be replaced ‘n all, but your house is… personal.”
You look down at the floor for a moment. “I guess I gotta go find out what kind of damage was done.”
Joel hesitated, then said quietly. “If you want… I can take you. Back to your house, I mean. Just for some moral support.”
You look up, surprised. “You'd do that?”
“Course,” he said. “It don't feel right lettin’ you deal with all that on your own. Not after last night.”
You held his gaze for a moment, nodding slowly. “Yeah. Okay, thanks.”
“Can we go now? I just wanna get it over with, if that's okay with you?” You ask, eyes trained on Joel.
Your stomach flipped just thinking about going back, but it had to be done.
“Sure, Darlin’. Lead the way.” He smiles reassuringly, giving your shoulder a light squeeze before gesturing to his front door.
Joel walked beside you, hands stuffed into the pockets of his worn jeans, as the two of you crossed the street.
The neighborhood looked different in the daylight. The breeze rustled the green, summer leaves above you, but all you could hear was the crunch of the gravel under your shoes and your heart thumping in your ears.
Your house was always in view, but as you drew closer with the clarity of the morning shine, the mess left behind felt like a punch to the gut.
The front door remained closed as Joel had left it last night. Glass broken from the window shimmered across the front porch like scattered ice.
Joel waited patiently behind you as you stared at your front door. An uneasy feeling creeping to your fingertips as they brushed the cool metal of the handle. Taking a deep breath, you twist, pushing it open.
It was worse than you remembered.
The entryway table had been knocked over, a drawer half ripped from its slot. Picture frames lay shattered on the floor, the memories they held now scuffed and cracked, some completely torn. You bent down slowly, fingers brushing across a photo of you as a kid, nestled between your parents on family vacation. The glass was broken clean through the middle of your face.
Joel remained silent beside you, letting you move through it.
You walk deeper inside, the weight in your chest growing heavier with each step. The living room had the couch cushions ripped open stuffing everywhere, drawers pulled open, papers and books scattered in piles.
The kitchen wasn't ransacked, but it was wrong. The cupboards were open, the vitamins you kept in one lay scattered across the countertop. A broken vase lay in your kitchen sink.
Joel finally spoke up, his voice quiet and low, “You see if anything's missin’ yet?”
You shook your head. “Not yet.”
He nodded once, but resumed his vow of silence.
You moved toward your bedroom, the place you had seen the burglar.
The moment you stepped inside your breath caught. Things were overturned, drawers dumped, clothes tossed across the floor. But what made the pitt in your stomach grow was what wasn't there.
The wooden box that used to sit on your shelf was gone. Your fingers brushed the empty dust ring left behind.
Joel, seeing your expression change, stepped closer. “What was there?”
You blinked hard, your throat tightening. “It- it was my grandpa's. He was a paratrooper in the army. My mom let me have it after he died.”
You knelt beside the shelf, scanning around, like maybe it had just grown legs and walked away. Like it might still be here, but it was gone.
“It had patches, pins, some letters. His dog tags.” You swallow thickly, eyes beginning to sting. “Wasn't worth much to anyone but me. But it was old, and looked pawnable.”
Your body felt frozen, a cold wash radiating from your core to the top of your head, down to the tips of your toes. Your eyes remain locked forward staring at an empty spot on the floor.
Joel knelt down beside you, his voice softer than you ever heard it.
“Hey… hey, look at me.”
You tried, but tears threatened to spill if you moved even an inch.
“I- I’m fine,” you mumbled. Quickly turning your face away from Joel, wiping the hot tears on the collar of your shirt.
But Joel didn't pull back. He reached out and gently touched your shoulder. “Don't do that, don't be like your old-man,” he said. “Don't try to be fine when you're not.”
You couldn't hold it anymore. The tears came quiet but torrential. Your chest tightening as a mix of grief and frustration came pouring out, all at once.
He didn't say anything else, just eased closer and wrapped his arms around you, guiding you to a sitting position at the foot of your bed.
You didn't resist, just folding into his chest, fingers tightening in the fabric of his shirt, face pressed just under his collar bone. Joel held you steady, one hand rubbing slow meditative circles on your back, the other cradling your head as you let yourself fall apart in a stranger's arms for the second time.
It wasn't just the broken window, or the scattered memories. Or the damn box. It was the weight of everything, the harsh reminder that grief would follow you your whole life.
“You didn't deserve this.” Joel murmured. “Any of it.”
You didn't answer, wrapped up in the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. Tucked against his chest you finally let the pain have a place to go.
Joel stays with you the whole time, holding you as you sob. Years of pent up sorrow seeping their way through your tightly shut eyelids.
By the time your tears had run their course, the sun had crept higher through the bedroom window, casting a warm glow across the disheveled sheets and scattered clothes. You sniffled once, lifting your head from Joel's chest, wiping your face.
“I'm sorry.” You murmured
Joel shook his head, letting you go. “Don't be.”
You sat up slowly, glancing around your wrecked room, cheeks still flushed from crying. “I can't just sit here,” you said. “I need to do something. Clean up. Try to feel normal again.”
Joel nodded once, rising to his feet, offering you a hand. “Then let's get to it.”
You moved together through the house, starting with the living room. Joel grabbed a broom while you returned the coffee table to its position, stacking cracked picture frames in a careful pile. You picked up the larger pieces of glass frame as Joel pulled the curtains open wider, allowing light to flood the space.
Miraculously, your old stereo system in the corner had survived untouched. You clicked it on, twisting the dial, wincing at the loud static crackling through the speakers before landing on a half decent oldies station.
Joel tilted his head as he swept. “That old thing still kickin’, huh?”
You smile. “Vintage tech. Built to last.”
“You and that stereo have that in common, I reckon.” He teased, his voice lighthearted.
You shoot him a look. “Wow. You callin’ me vintage?”
“Sweetheart, I'm vintage. You are durable.” He grinned.
As you worked together Joel kept the mood light, making jokes about your impressive cereal collection, and arguing with inanimate objects threatening to fall off the counter. With each sweep of the broom and crunch of glass into the trash, you felt yourself seeing light at the end of the tunnel, you could breathe again.
You both sat on the floor, surrounded by bags of trash, a half eaten sandwich in your hand, Joel had insisted you eat. You fell silent, your eyes lingering on a now mostly cleaned living room.
“I was dodging their calls for months.” You said softly, taking a small bite of your sandwich. “My parents. I didn't mean to, I just- things got overwhelming and I just kept putting it off.”
Joel looked at you, calmly, his voice steady. “They're your folks, I'm sure they'll understand.”
You sighed. “I should go over there. Surprise them for dinner maybe?”
He gave a nod. “I'll drive you. If you want.”
You blinked at him. “Really?”
Joel shrugs like it was nothing. “Figure you'd need a ride. My truck ain't luxury or nothin’ but it'll get ya there.”
You smile, touched. “Thanks.”
You stand up, brushing the dirt and dust off of your pants. “Hey, I'm gonna get ready for dinner.”
“No problem, I'll wait for you out here if you don't mind, got some fixin’ to do.” Joel cracks a smile, picking up a roll of duct tape and a cardboard box.
You look at him quizzically. “What're you gonna do with that?”
“Patchin’ the window, I can pick up replacement glass at the hardware store a little later, but it'll have to do for now.”
“Oh, Joel, you don't have to do all that, I'll just call someone to replace the window.”
“Nonsense, I'll do it for free. I'll be right as rain, just wait for me a bit.”
You can't help but chuckle at his determination.
“Alright, fine, thank you, but dont think this gesture will go unrewarded.” You say, pointing a finger at him from your bedroom doorway.
He nods as you disappear behind the closed door. Your fingers trail down the expanse of clothes hung neatly back into your closet, falling onto a soft, flowy fabric. You pull out a dress you hadn't worn in a long time, it was a light summery fabric, very flattering. You would look amazing in it, you would look put together and not like the entire world felt like it was imploding with you at its center. It was perfect for tonight.
You take the dress and bring it along with you into the bathroom, glancing back at Joel as he worked on covering the busted window.
You enter, hanging your dress up behind the door and opt for quickly washing your face and an extra layer of deodorant. Before slipping into your outfit for the evening. You discard your clothes into a nearby hamper and apply some light makeup, pinning up your hair with a claw clip, finishing off with a spritz of perfume. You practice your smile in the mirror, smoothing out the edges of your dress.
“It's just dinner. They miss me.” You whisper to yourself.
Your eyes wander to the jewelry box on your counter, untouched. Opening it, all jewelry accounted for. You grab out a thin necklace adorned with a heart locket, you fumble with the clasp, unable to open it. The last time you wore it was when your mom put it on you for graduation. She had to take it off too, you couldn't clasp it then either.
You walk out of the bathroom, looking for Joel. He was seated on your couch, head lulled back into the cushions, his eyes closed.
You clear your throat, “uhm Joel?”
He shoots awake, his eyes finding you quickly. He jumps to his feet, his eyes flickering for just a second as he takes you in. His mouth falling ajar before he speaks.
“I was just restin’ my eyes.” He clears his throat.
“Well damn, if I didn't know better, I'd say you're trying to impress someone.” He chuckles.
You gave a sheepish laugh, brushing invisible lint from the front of the dress. “Just trying not to look like I've had 2 breakdowns and counting, in the past 12 hours.”
You fidget with the necklace in your hand before looking up at Joel.
“D'ya mind?” You ask holding out the piece of jewelry
Joel takes it from your hands immediately, smiling gently. “Not at all.”
You turn around as Joel unclasps the necklace, holding up your hair. His arms wrap around you briefly as the cool metal dips into your cleavage. His hands coming into view then disappearing in the same second as they fall back down at his sides.
“Thanks,” you say, fixing the locket just right. “Again, for everything.”
“No need to thank me.” he smiles. “You ready?”
You nod, grabbing your phone from the coffee table, slipping on some sandals.
“As I'll ever be.” You sigh.
He opens the front door for you, ushering you to the old pickup sitting in his driveway. He was right, she was not luxury, half of the back bumper was rusted off, looks like someone took a bite out of it. The passenger side mirror had been duct taped back on.
Joel pushes ahead of you, opening up the door, offering a hand up into the truck. The smell of old leather and cigarettes emanated from the worn bench seating. You take a seat, the hot leather immediately burning the back of your thighs. You buckle in, the metal of the seatbelt almost too hot to touch.
Joel closes your door then hops in on the other side, turning the key in the ignition.
“Sorry, AC is busted.” He apologizes, reaching over you, rolling down your window before rolling down his own.
“'s all good, just grateful for the ride.” You smile at him,
He throws you a quick wink before backing out of his driveway, driving in the familiar direction of your childhood home. He never forgot the way.
Hello everyone, Barnes has put her wonderful graphic designs skills to use and has created these lovely graphics!
We're trying to be more personable so we can connect with our lovely readers! We would love to know how we could do that with you all, give us some ideas in our ask box!
More Updates ~
No Trespassing Part II is about to drop and we are working diligently together on Chapter 4 of Between Two Suns! Keep a look out for those, as well as a Moon Knight mini series coming your way!
Story Description: As a timid good girl you meet your match when a broody gentleman interrupts the day you had planned. A succinct meeting with a crypto mogul leaves you to swoon. Which side will you pick?
Chapter Summary: The night does not end, as you find yourself in an unexpected place.
Pairing: Obi-Wan Kenobi x F!Reader x Anakin Skywalker
Word Count: 6,501
Warnings: Language, alcohol, and blood
Authors: Barnes and Howlett
Author Notes: Hey guys! Sorry this is late once again, I got tendonitis in both my hands! It was a struggle writing this for some time, but alas, we prevail. Hope y’all enjoy <3 ~ Howlett 🌙
You take his large hand without hesitation, attempting to stand up. Unfortunately, the alcohol makes your heels feel ten times taller and heavier, forcing you to stumble into Obi-Wan’s grasp.
“So sorry, must have been the last couple martini’s I had.” You half slur, letting out a horrendous drunk chuckle. Obi-Wan tries to assist you, while also stumbling in an attempt to hold himself upright.
“Well, they were worth it in my opinion. In fact, I could take one to go.” He jokes, snickering.
“Obi-Wan, the last thing you need is another drink.” Anakin chimes in, clapping Obi-Wan’s shoulder, giving it a little squeeze. A little annoyed that his colleague allowed himself to get so sloppy.
“Let’s get you both out of here. You need to get into bed A-S-A-P.” Ankain remarks, as he makes his way over to you, guiding you both towards the exit.
Through fits of laughter and slurred words, Anakin eventually gets the two of you to the velvet ropes that hang in front of Holobar.
“I’m going to get the Jummer, both of you please stay here.” Anakin makes his way over to the valet, while the two of you prop each other up.
“Who put a stick up his ass, am I right?” Obi-Wan states, laughing too hard at his own joke. The sound reverberating in his chest, you can feel the gentle vibration with each cackle.
“Probably his ex-wife.” You snort, both erupting into laughter, you brace yourself by grabbing his forearms, trying to keep steady.
Obi-Wan interjects with a seemingly random thought. “Hey I know exactly where we should go, you’ll love it.” He smiles, a mischievous glint in his eyes, “I just need to talk to the driver first. Don’t tell Anakin!”
With that, he strolls up to the window of the Jummer before it even makes a complete stop, surely annoying the driver. Anakin finally makes his way back over to you.
“Hey, let’s get you inside. You need to get some rest.”
You struggle a bit taking Anakin’s hand as he opens the door and leads you into the Jummer. The familiar sight of the bar makes your eyes twinkle. One more drink wouldn't hurt. As you settle into the seats, Anakin by your side a concerned look etched across his features. You lean forward to procure an expensive bottle of wine, swiftly uncorking it pouring a glass with unsteady hands.
“Hey, I dont think thats a goo-”
You just laugh in his face before he can finish his sentence.
“‘S fine Ani, don't worry.” You bring the glass to your lips, the sanguine colored liquid spilling down your chin, leaving a red streak in its wake.
His eyes follow the drop as the wine sinks in between your cleavage, paying no mind to the nickname, instead finding his mouth agape, and his demeanour disarmed. He swallows thickly and clears his throat before continuing.
“Fine, one more. But after that I think we should be done with the alcohol, alright?”
You nod at him, no doubt understanding that you were already sloshed. You shrug off your fluffy shawl, leaving your shoulders bare, leaning against him as he is the closest support. He didn't completely mind your state, although it was a bit concerning. He found you rather cute when you weren't so serious. He sits and revels in the closeness of your bodies as you continue to sip on the wine. He felt relief in knowing you would be home in just a few minutes. He could have Obi-Wan out of his hair and a quiet rest of the night after sending the babysitter home.
Obi-Wan enters the vehicle with a smug grin on his face. “Popped another cork, have we? Thatta girl.” He laughs, taking a glass himself pouring just shy of the rim.
“What took you so long, Obi-Wan?” Anakin asks, his eyebrow raised.
“I had to relieve myself, you wouldn't believe the volume.” He chuckles before settling in next to you.
“You know, I’ve never had wine more expensive than twenty six credits? This is like first class type shit!” You say orienting your body towards Obi-Wan, leaving Anakin none the wiser to Obi-Wan's plan. You share a knowing giggle.
“You know my dear, I could have you drink wine more expensive than twenty six credits every night.” He attempts to wink, but fully blinks instead.
“I would be more than happy to make that happen for you.” Obi-Wan leans into you, giving you a smile. You couldn’t help but smile back, it was so contagious.
“I usually wait till after the third date to spend the night at someone’s place.” You continue giggling as you start to lean more into Obi-Wan.
“Well, sweetheart, those few dates can be arranged.” He leans in more, “Then we can discuss you spending the night.”
You blush, looking away with yet another giggle. The shameless flirting getting to Anakin.
“Hey you two should probably, uh.” Anakin speaks a little too fast for his brain to form something worth saying. “Uh, watch this cool background on the TV, it's my homeplanet.” He clears his throat, and gestures toward the TV.
You and Obi-Wan glance toward the TV that once had Anakin’s face plastered on it. Now, it held a beautiful scene of the sands of Tatooine.
“Wow, that is really beautiful.” You begin to choke up a bit, almost shedding a tear. If alcohol was good for one thing, it was making you emotional. The vast gorgeous landscape reminding you of the last family vacation you took before your father passed.
“Yes, perhaps, but not as beautiful as you tonight.” Obi-Wan quickly interjects, catching your attention once again. This time, he reaches for your hand.
You let him take it, intertwining your fingers together. The intimacy of the situation makes Anakin’s stomach turn. The Jummer comes to an abrupt stop, earlier than Anakin had anticipated for your home. The driver pops the door open as you and Obi-Wan set down your dirty wine glasses. Obi-Wan's face is plastered with a shit eating grin as he pulls you up and out of the car, leaving Anakin sitting alone, shuffling out after the two of you.
“Wow!” You exclaim beholding the large telescopic building in front of you, a beautiful planetarium awaits. You quickly run up to the doors, only to find them locked. A wave of disappointment pricks in the corner of your eyes. You get an idea.
Anakin exits the car, his brow creased in disbelief. “Obi-Wan!” He practically roars at him from about twenty feet away.
“Why are we here? Did you tell the driver to take us here?!”
“Oh, Anakin. It's just a bit of fun old friend, you should try it sometime.” Obi-Wan responds by pulling a ring of keys from his pocket, jingling them around.
You had disappeared from either of their sights, set on a mission of your own. You were no stranger to a little breaking and entering, something you picked up from friends of years past. The two men look around, Anakin in a slight panic, Obi-Wan spots you first. A glimpse up your dress makes him let out a low whistle as you begin to scale the side of the building, climbing the ladder to the roof. Anakin runs up to Obi-Wan, hitting him gently in the chest for being so crass. He stands at the base of the ladder ready to catch you if you fall. Following you up once he sees you are safely on the roof.
Obi-Wan just chuckles and unlocks the front door of the building eager to show you the inside, once he meets you on the roof.
“Woah, the view from up here is amazing.” You call to Anakin as he steps over the ladder's last rung.
You stand near the lip of the building, no guard rails to stop you from falling, you look down in awe at the height, even just fifteen feet felt like a long way down. You look back at the sky full of stars. Anakin walks up behind you gently taking your hand and leading you away from the edge.
“Listen Y/N, you need to be careful, you’re too close to the edge!” He exclaimed. “The last thing I need is you falling off the building.”
“Don’t worry I won’t fall!” You say, making your way back to the edge of the building. “Besides, you can always catch me!” You chuckle.
“Believe it or not, I can not catch you from the bottom of the building if we are both standing on the roof.” He pouts, putting his hands on his hips.
“Maybe not, from the bottom.” You walk about a pace in front of him, back facing him. “You could catch me from here though!” You chuckle and tip back, slowly falling in his direction.
Anakin is quick to move, and catches you before you could fall any further. You laugh, as he pulls you back to your feet. Turning you around to face him.
“Please don’t do that again! You are clearly drunk and out of your head!” Anakin shouts.
“Listen, I’m just trying to have fun.” You give him a playful shove. “Quit being such a hard ass, loosen up a little bit!” You turn around, back facing him once more.
“Now this time, could you have a little more fun with it?” You say, as you let yourself fall back again.
This time, instead of Anakin catching you right away. He lets you fall just a little more, and a little more, and a little more, and suddenly you don't feel safe anymore. Your body begins to stiffen, bracing for impact. Until you feel Anakin’s hands hook around your arms, lifting you up back to your feet. He then picks you up spinning, holding you flush against his chest, his arms wrapping around you. You could feel his breath on your lips. You look up at him, his gaze trained on you.
“Was that fun enough for you?” He smiled down at you softly, a sarcastic tone lacing his voice.
The air stilled, you felt suspended, floating even. The stars that illuminate the sky became a blur as all you could focus on was Anakin's face. His soft smile, the look in his eyes reminiscent of how you behold artwork. Your eyes glance towards his lips, and you could have sworn he did the same. A surreal feeling pulling you towards him like a magnet.
“The stars awai-” Obi-Wan slams open the roof access hatch, his sentence interrupted as he stares at the two of you blankly for a second.
Both of your heads snap in his direction, Anakin swiftly steadying you on your feet. You felt disappointed that the moment was cut short, but the sobering realization of what you were about to do leaves your heart racing. You quickly take a step away from Anakin as you stare at Obi-Wan waiting for him to react. Surprisingly, he smiles.
“Come on down, your planetary experience awaits.” His head disappears into the floor, a hand popping out of the hatch doing a come here motion.
You look at Anakin but he's already looking at you, gazing at you, into you. A slight smile on his lips. He goes to speak but you speak instead.
“C’mon, let's get going.” You lead him over to the hatch, he climbs down the short distance first, waiting for you at the bottom of the platform.
A mischievous thought comes to mind. You sit at the hatch’s edge, swinging your legs around.
“Catch me!” You call down, without waiting for a response you jump down, Anakin’s hands finding your waist as you soar to him mid air. He pulls you in and spins you before setting you down. You couldn’t help but giggle in his arms.
“My lady, the planetarium has much to offer.” Obi-Wan chimes in, offering his hand to you. Escorting you down the stairs leading you to the main floor, he tries to draw you away from Anakin.
You gladly take his hand, loving this game of back and forth. You walk alongside Obi-Wan, arms hooked through one another.
“Where would you like to go first, darling?” He stops in front of a large holographic map.
“We have a food court if you’re feeling peckish. I’ll have to call someone in to start up the grill, hope they won’t mind.” You both chuckle. “There’s a lecture hall, nothing much to see in there. I suppose the guest speakers have all left for the evening.’ He ponders some more. “There’s also-”
“I want to go here!” You point towards a section of the map.
“The children’s area?” He retorts.
“Yes of course! I mean, they literally have an old snub-fighter that I’ve always wanted to visit!” You exclaim, already heading towards the children’s section. Anakin and Obi-Wan follow closely behind, eager to see who gets to you first.
As you weave through the place, you finally arrive at the colorful glowing borders with the huge sign reading Aspiring Jedi’s Enter Here. Without hesitation, you all walk past the corridor, and start to explore. While this area was made for younglings under twelve, you couldn’t help being fascinated with the things they had in here.
A room where you can build your own “lightsaber,” and another where you can do “Jedi Training.” They had small closet sized rooms where you can have a flight simulation, while some narrator explains the science behind space aviation. Then there it was, just beyond all the exhibits and activities lie the snub-fighter
You excitedly run over staring in admiration. The dim light catching on the cockpit. The now defunct missile launchers pointed ahead.
“You know, these babies were the best snub-fighters of the time, they were versatile and could endure for long periods of time.” You state excitedly, trusting that the two men were following behind you.
You run around the side looking for a foothold to enter the cockpit.
“Z-95” Obiwan announces. “Outdated by the time it was produced.”
Your eyes land on a sign that reads ‘employees only’, the sign was attached to a step ladder wheeled just under the plane's wing. You quickly race over and begin to push the stairs up to the edge of the cockpit. Hastily pulling yourself up them, to the metal and glass dome making an attempt to get to the access hatch. You fail, unable to get atop the fuselage just above the cockpit canopy.
The male duo races up to the base of the stairs, a look of horror over Anakin's face, and a pleased, and impressed grin over Obi-Wan’s.
“Y/N, darling, you’re forgetting a key element.” Obi-Wan calls out waving around the access card to the ship.
From the top of the stairs you beckon him to throw you the key.
“Not so fast Y/N, allow me into the ship, I can show you around.” He smirks and makes his way up the step ladder.
“There’s only space for one person on the ship, how are you going to show me around?”
He scans the card, and opens the cockpit with a hiss. Climbing past you and taking a seat in the only chair.
“Well who said there was one seat? I have the perfect spot for you.” He smirks and pats his hand on his lap a few times.
“There is plenty of room for you here, and as far as I’m concerned. Your name is written all over it.” He smiles at you with lust filled eyes.
You can't believe it, red creeps up your face as you attempt to hide it. Butterflies fluttering in your abdomen.
“Well Obi-Wan, if you insist.” You step into the ship, grinning from ear to ear, he does the same.
You slowly walk in front of him with what little room you have, and fall into his lap. He lets out a quiet sigh as you sit so perfectly on him, his hands find their way to your hips, pushing you into him more. A small groan escapes your lips from the gesture, surprised you were in this situation. Paying no mind to your “third date” rule. Anakin was furious at the sight, that should have been him, not Obi-Wan.
“Uh hey guys. I don’t really think two people should be in there at the same time. It's really dangerous.” He sulks, making his way over to the step ladder.
“No worries Anakin, we’re all good in here!” Obi-Wan chimes, giving him a wave devilishly, knowing the jealousy writhing in him.
“Obi-Wan!” He sighs, pinching the bridge of his nose. “Get out of the snub-fighter.” Spoken with a failed effort to remain calm.
“You’re not my dad.” Obi-Wan spoke back, a little too fast for Anakin’s liking.
“Get out of the fucking snub-fighter.” Anakin continues to pout, sternly glaring into Obi-Wan.
“I’m in the snub-fighter and you’re not!” Obi-Wan shouts, loving this whole ordeal.
“Hey! I’m going to-” He was cut off by Obi-Wan laughing.
“I’m literally in the snub-fighter and you’re not!”
You pay no mind to the shouting, only feeling Obi-Wan’s voice reverberate in his warm chest, as your eyes take in the control panel and stick in front of you. All locked into place and unusable but still cool nevertheless. You once had dreams of piloting this bad boy, well your five year old self did, obviously now there were way better models available. But this one; this one was your favorite. Forever holding a special place in your heart no matter how archaic.
“Are you having fun, darling?” Obi-Wan asks, now ignoring Anakin’s protesting. His hands still settled on your hips, as Anakin huffs and walks away.
You nod fervently
Obi-Wan chuckles lowly, he leans in just enough for his breath to fan over your ear.
“Good, I was hoping you'd be.”
You twist a little in his lap and look back at him. His face closer than you expected, those blue eyes locking in on yours with a maddening glint. Trouble. You thought. Good trouble.
“I feel like we're breaking some sort of safety regulation.” You murmur, feigning concern as your finger toys with the different control levers.
“Oh I'm positive we are.” He replies, his voice dipping lower into a purr.
“But some rules can be bent, especially when you look so good in the cockpit, and afterall, I am the boss.” He chuckles.
A light blush flares on your cheeks, you try, unsuccessfully, to hide it behind a light-hearted scoff.
“You are so full of yourself.”
He arches his eyebrow, lips curling into a smug smile. “And yet, you're still on my lap.”
Before you can quip back he adds, “Speaking of…” he trails off. “I want to show you something.” His hands give your hips a gentle squeeze. “It's outta this world.”
You laugh at his stupid pun. “That was actually terrible, but I'll bite.”
“Hopefully not too hard.” He smirks.
You roll your eyes playfully before standing up. He helps guide you out of the fighter, as your feet hit the step ladder below, he hops out beside you with ease.
Anakin sits beside the ship in one of the other models meant for smaller children, aimlessly toying with a plastic steering wheel. His holo-phone in his other hand as he texts someone. His brow knit tight. He's sulking, jaw wired tightly, but Obi-Wan doesn’t even glance his way. Instead he offers you his hand with an exaggerated gentlemanly charm, as he does.
“It's just this way.” He says in the usual flirty tone you've grown accustomed to.
“There's a room down the corridor that houses the observatory dome. Massive telescope, rotating roof, minimal light pollution, just us and a sky full of stars.”
You give him a side-eye as he leads the way, your fingers brushing as you walk together. “That sounds… suspiciously romantic.”
“Suspicious? Me? Ha!” He repeats feigning offense.
You laugh again, as you had been all night, but this time he turns his head just slightly to watch you, his gaze softening for a beat. He may be joking, but even as the alcohol wears off you were as enchanting as ever.
As you approach the door, he swipes the same access card from before. The automatic door hisses open, revealing a circular room bathed in soft ambient lighting. The telescope itself stretches towards the dome above, sleek, no doubt ancient, but impossibly beautiful.
“After you.” Obi-Wan says, motioning inside.
You step in, awe flooding your senses.
“Does this come with a guided stargazing experience too?” You tease, turning around as he follows you in.
The doors hiss close behind him. He steps in close again, hands slipping into his slack's pockets, as he looks up towards the stars.
“If you're lucky,” he says, his voice smooth and low, “I might find one to name after you.”
You chuckle at the gesture, and walk towards the telescope.
“Won’t Anakin be joining us? I hate to see him sulking all by his lonesome.”
“Well, we wouldn’t want him imposing, now would we?” He smirks, making his way over to you.
You scoff, playfully hitting him. “Don’t be so rude to Ani! I know he’s been kind of a drag all night, but he’s just looking out for us. Being drunk and irresponsible and all.” You chuckle and try to understand the mechanical workings of the telescope, eyes scanning over the glowing control board.
“I suppose you are right.” He stands and ponders for a moment. “But I think we’d be better off without him.”
“I’m going to go see what he’s up to, he seemed pretty upset with his holo-phone.”
With that, you walk past a dumbfounded Obi-Wan to look for Anakin.
“Are you joking?!” Anakin was seen pacing around, practically screaming at his phone.
“How could she do this?! I told you we shouldn’t have hired her tonight! She seemed sketchy!” He sighs, and pinches his nose, listening to the other person on the line before responding.
Switching his tone, he almost begs. “Listen, I’m busy right now. Can’t you go home and take care of the kids?” The begging doesn’t seem to resonate with the other person.
“What do you mean you're not in our solar system?!” He is practically seething at this point.
“Fine, I’ll be there to take care of the twins in twenty minutes. I can’t believe this.”
He hangs up the phone and takes a moment to gather himself. Through this whole ordeal he hadn’t noticed you lurking around the corridor.
He lets out a quick, angered shout, and kicks some child size chair to the ground.
You make your way over to him, apprehensive.
“Everything all right?”
Anakin’s head snaps towards you, eyes ablaze, softening in the instant he meets your concerned ones. The intensity makes your stomach drop for a second, but it quickly resolves itself as he draws close, his eyebrows knit in unease.
“Forgive me, I must go.” He murmurs, voice rough, anger bubbling just beneath the surface. Giving you an apologetic look, his hands bracing at your elbows, grounding himself, more than holding onto you.
“But, Ani, we were just about to look at the stars.” You say softly, your voice tapering off as you search his eyes.
Anakin shakes his head, his hands still gently holding your arms. “I know. I wanted to, but I have to go. I can't ignore this, not when my kids need me.“
You bite your lip, torn. The adrenaline from your earlier’s interaction with Obi-Wan weaning as you see disconcert ebb within Anakin. He wasn't just broody from earlier, he was frustrated, frightened even.
“I understand.” Your fingers brush over the fabric of his sleeve. “Of course, I understand.”
HIs jaw flexes as he tries to say something else, but he can't seem to find the words. Instead, he nods and leans in, pressing a tentative and impulsive kiss to your temple, it remains just long enough to stir the butterflies.
“I’ll see you soon.” He says, a promise lingering on his tongue.
You nod, though your chest aches with disappointment, you return the kiss on his cheek. “You're a good father, Anakin. Don’t forget to take care of yourself too.”
He lets go of you reluctantly, stepping back with a final glance before turning toward the exit. You watch him walk away, shoulders tight, until the door closes behind him. As he exits hurriedly towards the Jummer, he can't help but skip a little. His fingers found the place your lips had lain, caressing it gently
You're still staring at the spot he left when you feel another presence slip beside you.
Obi-Wan hums thoughtfully, arms folding across his chest as he leans against the corridor wall beside you. “The man that never rests, whisked away yet again. You know, it’s becoming a habit with him.”
“What do you mean?” You ask, turning to face Obi-Wan.
“He’s just always….busy. Always catastrophe, emotional unrest. Trouble in paradise, as the younglings say.” His tone thinly veiled in concern.
“I didnt even think he would have come out tonight, but I can see what changed his mind.” The smirk on his lips tempered as his eyes linger on yours for too long.
You feel your cheeks warm, but roll your eyes in response. “Obi-Wan.” You detest.
He lifts his hands to feign surrender. “No judgement, darling. I would have made the same decision.”
He shifts, smoothing his hands down the front of his shirt, a gentle smile gracing his face. “But, the stars will wait for no man. Not even one whisked away by fatherhood.”
He takes a step backward, motioning towards the observatory with a slight tilt of his head, a lilt returning to his voice, “Now, if you'll continue to indulge me, there's a rather spectacular celestial alignment about to peek into view. Won't be back for another seventy two years.”
You raise a brow, amused. “Is that how you lure all your guests into observatories? Once in a lifetime opportunities?”
He grins. “Only the ones worth impressing.”
You roll your eyes again, hiding the smile blooming across your face behind a small shake of your head. You let him lead the way back down the corridor. The door to the observatory hissing open once more, bathing the walkway in a cool wash of starlight.
As you step inside, the telescope is exhibited in the center of the room, ready to be used.
Obi-Wan moves over to the controls, fingers dancing over the glowing interface. “Now, where were we, before being so rudely interrupted by reality.”
You stand beside him, letting the tension melt into the mechanical hum of the room. “I think you were about to show me the stars.”
He glances at you from the corner of his eye. “Constellation, actually.” He clarifies, gently orienting your head toward a cluster of stars, dipping his head next to your ear.
“Have you ever heard the tale of The Constellation of Desire?”
You blink in disbelief. “The Constellation of Desire?” That sounds suspiciously made up.”
Obi-Wan chuckles, the sound low and pleasant. “I assure you, it's real. Or at least real enough to become mythos. It only appears once every seventy two years. It's fleeting, hard to spot, and always tied to…moments that matter.”
“Moments that matter, huh?” She glances at him, her eyebrow quirked.
“That's how the legend goes.” He gestures towards a soft arc of stars near the center of the sky, gently guiding your gaze.
“Only visible to those who are open to it. It's supposed to reflect longing, connection. But interpretations may vary, some believe it reflects the desire for Revnog.” He jokes.
You squint at the sky, trying to pick out the shape. “Well I'm not seeing anything particularly scandalous up here. Unless those two dots and that curved line are supposed to be symbolic of something.”
He leans in just enough to match your line of sight, his voice gentle. “That's the beauty of it. The stars never shout. No, they suggest. Ever so slightly.”
You give him an amused side eye. “Are you telling me the galaxy's rarest star is whispering sweet nothings to me?
“Only if it thinks you're listening.” He says with a sly grin.
You gently pat his arm, nudging him gently in the rib. “You're impossible.”
“I think you mean charming.” He corrects, brushing imaginary dust from his shirt like a man pleased with himself.
“And think about it, a whole seventy two years. This constellation won’t show again in your lifetime.”
Your eyes drift back to soft glittering stars overhead, taking in the beauty above. “So, you brought me here to see it before it disappears?”
“Exactly,” he says, a little quieter now. “You might think it silly, but I thought you might like to see something special.”
The stars twinkle within your eyes, and you find yourself smiling. Softly, genuinely.
“I'm glad you did.”
You hadn’t realized how close the both of you had been. How small the space was between you two. His eyes gaze down to your lips, only for a moment. You took notice, doing the same to him.
“While the stars in the sky are special, I think I found something even more precious right in front of me.” He spoke softly, inching forward just a little.
The space between you two was impossibly tense. You blush and giggle from the comment, moving closer, wanting to close the space even further. In doing so, your foot catches on the control panel’s leg, propelling you headfirst into Obi-Wan. Your forehead immediately made contact with Obi-Wan’s nose. He yelped in pain as he moved away from you, cupping his nose with both hands.
“Oh my stars, I’m so sorry!” You rush over to him, attempting to make the situation better.
“It’s alright, it was an accident.” He slowly removes his hands, traces of blood lingering on his fingers. Dark red liquid rushing out of his nostrils.
“You’re bleeding! We need to get you out of here!” You grab his hands, speed walking out of the room. Desperately trying to find the nearest exit.
“Oh don’t worry, I’m fine really.” Attempting to slow you down, he tugs at your hand, holding you back.
“No, you’re not. I’m really sorry, I didn’t mean for this to happen.” He tugs your hand again, this time with more force, making you stationary.
“Darling, I promise you I am fine.” Softly, he took your other hand, attempting not to transfer his blood to you while pinching his nose with the other.
“Let me take you home, I think it’s time we call it a night.” He tilts his head back, retrieving a handkerchief out of his back pocket. Obi-Wan cleans up the blood, as the pinching had quelled the rush.
“You know…” You tilt his head down. “You’re not supposed to put your head back when you have a nose bleed. How else will the blood come out?” A chuckle leaves both of you.
A comfortable, yet slightly awkward silence permeates the walk out of the building. Neither of you know what to speak about, not knowing if there was anything worth saying at that moment. Obi-Wan decided to break the silence.
“So, do you have any plans for tomorrow?”
Such a simple question, asked countless times over. However, this time when it was asked, it settled into the pitt of anxiety opening like a void in your abdomen.
“Oh shit.” You start to walk faster, grabbing your holo-phone from your bag. The bright screen powers on, the time reading 3:17am.
“Oh shit, I have class tomorrow! I have to be up by 7:30! There is no way I’m going to survive classes all day!”
You begin to panic, steadily speed walking towards the street.
“Don’t worry darling, I’m sure everything will be alright.” Obi-Wan jogs to match your pace.
“No you don’t understand! I’m going to have classes from nine in the morning till three! Then I’m going to have to stop at my internship for at least four hours because I have this big project that I should have been working on tonight. I can’t believe I did this, I should not have come out.”
Obi-Wan follows, offended at the last comment, but still wanting to comfort you.
“Calm down, everything’s going to be alright.”
“How could you say that? What exactly is alright about this situation? And where's the Jummer?!” You sigh, not wanting to start a fight. “Please, just take me home.”
He nods, grabbing his holo-phone, making a call.
“Soont, I need you back at the planetarium ASAP!” He yelled through the phone in that annoying tone he had used hours earlier with the bartender.
“Be here in five minutes or you’re fired!”
Obi-Wan hangs up before Soont could say anything else. Walking towards you, he attempts to give you some advice.
“If it’s any consolation I believe that if you enjoyed the time you wasted, then it is not a waste of time.” Flashing you a smile, he kicks the ground shyly. “I don’t know about you, but I had a great time tonight. I wouldn’t have changed a thing.”
A chuckle had managed to slip out of you. He was right, it was better to embrace the good then the bad.
“You’re right, I’m sorry if I said anything that offended you.”
Finding his face, he held a gentle smile. Soft, the moonlight reflected off of it perfectly as he gazed at you. His eyes sparkled so nicely in the night. He absolutely loves the dress you wore tonight, he loves looking at it hug your body every second he can. He loves the way your hair fits your face so perfectly. He could get lost in you forever.
“No need to apologize darling.” Somehow, again, he was standing in front you. So close, yet so far. “I just hope everything goes well for you tomorrow.”
He takes your hands for what would be about the fifth time, but everytime he takes it, it feels like the first time. Giving you those very familiar butterflies in your stomach, accompanied with the familiar burn of the blush on your cheeks.
“You look absolutely stunning, standing in the moonlight like this.” A huge smile plastered on his face.
“You don’t always have to be so charismatic, you know.” Looking down you let out a chuckle, keeping your hands in his.
“I didn’t know telling the truth would give me so much slack!” Chuckling, he found himself trying to close that space between the two of you once again.
Hoping to be more successful this time, you start to move in closer as well, reading his features like a hawk. Looking for any sign of hesitance, but there was none. He was a man who knew exactly what he wanted. Before your lips fully collided, you were both cut off by the honk of the Jummer. Feeling startled, you both fall back, disappointed by what could have been. Soont ran out of the Jummer, opening the door for the both of you.
Obi-Wan leads you into the hovercraft, giving Soont a disappointed look. No doubt he felt embarrassed for the mistake he made. You made yourself comfortable in the leather seats for the final time tonight. Sighing deeply, thinking about going back to reality the next day. Obi-Wan saw himself into the hovercraft, finding his seat right next to you.
Soont rolls down the driver window. “Where to sir?”
“The lady's residence, do make it quick.” He snaps, forcing Soont to roll up the window as fast as he could.
“Now, my darling, are you comfortable? Care for water or snacks?” Gesturing towards the bar, he gives a questioning look.
“I am quite alright, thank you.”
You sit, the sobering weight of your pre planned engagements turning your stomach too much to consume anything more. You think about your bed, how nice it will be to collapse on to it. Hoping that Miles was also alright, it had been a while since you left this late. Obi-Wan was watching you go through mental turmoil, your features showed worry. What he thought of doing was absolutely stupid, but he knew you would love it. So, he yawned, stretching his arm up draping one down just over your shoulders. He looked over to you, giving you a devilish smirk.
Immediately, you laughed. The ridiculousness of the situation would make anyone cringe, but it felt just right. Ridiculous was what you needed right now. With a deep sigh, you snuggle against him, closing your eyes. He took the opportunity to pull you in closer, rubbing your shoulder for comfort. You felt warm, the familiar smell of cologne and ash from the coffee shop filled your nostrils yet again. It was off putting for a second, but upon further inspection, it brought some sort of warmth and coziness.
Trying to soak up every second, you didn’t realize that you had fallen in the lightest stage of sleep for the rest of the ride. Obi-Wan noticed, but didn’t mind. It brought a sense of satisfaction. Some hours ago you could not stand to be in the same room as him. Now he had succeeded in getting you to be the most vulnerable you could be. Whether you meant to fall asleep or not, you trusted being this close to him and he loved that. Eventually, the ride would end, and he would have to shake you awake.
“Darling, we are here.” He spoke ever so gently, trying not to scare you awake.
You groan and sit up, Soont opens the door. Obi-Wan is the first to leave, waiting for you outside with his hand reaching in, hoping for you to take it. You make your way over to the door, and gladly, you take his hand as he leads you out of the Jummer. He walks you over to the door of your complex.
“Well, I had a great time darling. I hope I can see you soon.” He stands, waiting for you to take the initiative for something, anything.
“I had a great time tonight as well, thank you for everything.” You lean towards him, he is ready for whatever you would have to offer him. Your lips planted a soft kiss on his cheek. Pulling away, he couldn't help but giggle. You find your keys and unlock the door, walking in.
“Have a good night Obi-Wan.”
“You too, my sweet!”
You close the door and make your way to the bathroom, ready to wipe your face. Obi-Wan stood at the door for a second, happy with himself. He pulls his hand up to the cheek you had just kissed, smiling like an idiot. He begins his walk to the Jummer, jumping and doing a heel click just before he enters the hovercraft, giddy as ever, and headed for home.
