yet another cosmic unfairness: a manatee is some kind of big fat dumpling beast of the sea that wants you to pet it so bad we had to make laws against doing just that for their safety
Get your ducks in a row. Now get them in a circle. Get them in a Socratic seminar with that duck in the middle. Get them in a mosh pit. Get them moshing. Get them moshing.
pairing: marvel ladies x reader, (natasha x reader, wanda x reader, carol x reader, kate x reader, agatha x reader, rio x reader, yelena x reader)
summary: first episode of very dramatic and very gay dating show, with a lot of chaos, bad flirting and beautiful women.
word count: 2.8k
warnings: none just some flirting and a bit of drama (we´re staring slow)
an: first part of this fun series, wohooo, i truly hope youâll like it! iâm super excited! happy Motherâs Day to all the mommies out there;) hit me up pls
"Welcome everyone... to the very first season of The Love Initiative!" The camera glides over sunlit villa, white walls, glass doors, pool that would be too big for twenty people and a lot of very pricey decorations, before settling on Sam Wilson, the host, standing in a custom burgundy suit.
"My name is Sam Wilson, I´ll be your host and before you ask... yes," he adds, smirking, "this is exactly what it looks like. Ten days. One villa. A group of very attractive, very single women... and one person who´s about to have their life turned upside down." He starts walking.
"Here´s how it works. Our contestants will be living together right here," he points at the villa, "bonding, competing, falling in love... or at least trying not to start unnecessary drama." Sam pauses, then shrugs, "actually, scratch that, there will definitely be drama." A quick glance at the camera, "you´re welcome."
Sam then gestures toward a seperate part of the villa, "and then there is the one and only. Our lead. The one making all the decisions. The one everyone´s here for." Sam smiles, "(Y/N)!"
"Now (Y/N) won´t be living with the others. They get her own private apartment, a little peace, a little quiet place to think... and to question every single decision they make over the next ten days."
"Each day, they´ll go on fun dates, face new challanges and get to know the women who are all here for one reason... to win their heart."
His tone softens just slightly, "and at the end of it all... they´ll choose one person. One woman to leave this villa with."
A beat of silence.
"No preassure, right?" Sam chuckles. "So get comfortable. Get emotionally invested. Maybe don´t pick favorites too early, trust me, never ends well." A pause, then a grin on his face. "because if there is one thing I can guarantee... it´s that sparks will fly!"
Right. So... this is really happening.
You stare at your reflection like it might suddenly give you an explanation how you got here. Here is a beautiful villa bathroom, that is definitely more expensive than your entire apartment back home, about to participace in what is essentially... a televised speedrun of your love life.
Which to be fair, needed help. A lot of help. Because if you´re being honest? Your romantic history could be summed up in three categories - almosts, what-ifs and that one time you thought girl was flirting and she was just cursing at you in another language.
You let out a quiet breath, leaning your hands agasint the sink. So the only solution to your problem is going on a fully televised dating show. Because if you were going to make questionable life choices, you might as well commit.
You straighten slightly, eyeing yourself in the mirror again.
Ten days. Ten days to meet a group of women who are all here for you. To go on dates. To figure out feelings. To... somehow choose one person at the end of it.
Your future girlfriend. Potentially your future wife. No pressure. None at all. Totally normal. This is exactly what well-adjusted people do. You huff out a small laugh, shaking your head. This is very normal gay experience.
The main hall is ridiculous in person. Beautiful ridiculous, to be specific. Warm golden lighting, tall windows, elegant furniture and at the center of it all is a stage framed by soft lights and large flower arrangements.
You stand just out of frame, smoothing your hands down the front of your clothes for what has to be the hundredth time, trying and failing to ignore the pounding of your heartbeat.
From somewhere beyond the cameras, Sam´s voice carries through the room, Unlike someone, he sounds very confident and overall effortlessly charming. "Now, before be begin, let´s talk about the person at the center of all this."
A large screen flickers to life. And suddenly you´re watching yourself. Pieces of you. Quick flashes of a life that feels oddly intimate, seeing it on the big screen now. Of course you remember them shooting it before you went to villa, but seeing yourself with friends in a coffee shop, or walking throught the city with headphones on, reading in your apartment or other candid moments where you look soft, free... it´s weird to see yourself through the eyes of someone else.
Sam narrates over it all, "smart, kind, funny..." he pauses, "questionable taste in food combos, according to production notes." A quiet laugh from the crew, "but most importantly? Someone who has a lot of love to give. And maybe, just maybe, is finally ready to let herself receive some back." The montage ends.
"And now..." Sam´s voice lights with very theatrical excitement. "Here they are- the one and only..." He grins towards the camera, "(Y/N)!"
Oh god.
That´s you.
That is, unfortunately, your cue.
You step out into the light, trying your best not to look like you´re internally screaming. The camera turn and everything suddenly feels very real. Sam meets you halfway, immediately offering the kind smile, that takes some of the edge off.
"Well," he says, gesturing toward you, "welcome in the villa, (Y/N)!"
"Thank you, it is very crazy to be here... in a good way, of course." You laugh, nerves making it come out breathless.
Sam chuckles, leading you toward the center of the room, both of you settling into the easy rhytm of conversation. "How are you feeling?" He asks, softer now, genuine.
You exhale a nervous little laugh, "honestly?"
"Please."
"Terrified. Excited, Slightly nauseous. But mostly excited."
Sam nods seriously, "that´s exactly how I feel every Thanksgiving with my family, so I´d say you´re doing great."
That pulls a real laugh from you, it definetly helps loosening up the nerves.
"Alright, but now the important question."
You immedietly narrow your eyes, "that sounds dangerous."
"It is," Sam folds his arms, "what is your type?"
You think about it for a second before shaking your head, "I... honestly don´t know if I have one."
Sam blinks, "no type at all?"
"No. I mean- obviously I find people attractive, but I´ve never really had a strict type. It´s more about the chemistry, I guess. Personality. Connection."
Sam hums, glancing toward the large closed door at the other end of the hall. "Well," he says, dragging out the word, "that´s actually great news."
You raise a brow, "oh?"
Sam smiles, mischievous, like he knows something you don´t, "because behind those doors..." he points dramatically, "we have plenty of types."
Your stomach flips, not in a bad way. Just in a holy shit this is happening way.
Sam catches your expression and laughs, "so... final asnwer," he turns towards you. "Are you ready for all the ladies?"
You glance at the door, at whatever, whoever is waiting behind them. You smile happily and nervously at the same time, "I am."
Sam claps his hands together, "that´s what I like to hear." He steps back, grin widening. "Then let´s meet your future heartbreaks- I mean..." A beat of silence, "... potential soulmates."
The door open, and the first woman steps through. Sam´s voice carries smoothly across the hall, "Natasha Romanoff!"
You forget how breathing works. She moves like she owns every room she enters, not arrogantly, but with a quiet certainty, that makes the whole space shift around her. Her blonde hair falls in a soft waves over one shoulder, she´s dressed in sharp black tailoring softened by silk. It looks expensive, that´s for sure.
Every detail about her feels unreal. Her gaze lands on you, unreadable at first, then softens, just enough to make your stomach completly betray you.
She steps close, offering a small smile, that already feels like a marrige proposal. "It´s lovely to finally meet you, (Y/N)."
Her voice is velvet and low and-
Right.
Words.
You should use words.
Preferably right now.
"Hi," you manage.
Excellent start.
Natasha´s smile curves slightly wider, amused and she brushes a loose strand of hair behind her ear before stepping to the side. Your heart is doing concerning things.
Sam leans closer, "you´re staring, (Y/N)."
"I know."
"Do you need a minute?"
"I want medical assistance," Sam laughs and so does Natasha.
Then the door opens again and Sam speaks up again, "Wanda Maximoff." As your eyes meet hers, somehow things get worse.
Or better.
Definetly worse.
Definetly better.
Wanda walks in like the wind throught tall grass, effortless, grounded. Her hair falls loose around her shoulders, slightly messy in a deliberate way and she´s dressed in dark jeans, boots, layereed necklaces and a worn flannel hanging open over a top, that reveals strong arms and sun-kissed skin.
You are immedietly in love with at least three things about her. When Wanda speaks it´s simple and casual, "hey you," but you nearly fold in half.
"Hi," you breathe, somehow even less coherent than before.
Wanda smiles and she joins Natasha. You look between them. Two most beautiful women, already devastating.
How many women are left? God.
Sam softly pats your shoulder and he chuckles, "you´re doing great."
"I´m fighting for my life."
"That´s good for the fans." He smirks, then he looks at the door again. "Another lady to the group, Kate Bishop!"
Oh.
This one looks like trouble.
Kate walks in like she´s entering a stadium tunnel before a championship game. Broad grin, shoulders back, confidence radiating off her in waves. She´s tall, athletic, dressed in jeans with sneakers and fitted blazer over a shirt. She absolutely knows she´s hot.
Which is horrible. She knows exactly what she does to people. Her eyes flick over you and brighten immediately, "well, hi there."
That grin becomes flirtatious in half a second, "you´re even cuter than production said." Heat floods your whole face.
Sam makes a delighted sound beside you, "oh, she´s fast."
Kate laughs, stepping closer to shake your hand, but her thumb brushes lightly over your knuckles, deliberate enough to make butterflies explode violetnly in your stomach. "It´s really nice to meet you, (Y/N)," she says, softer now. Then with a wink, "can´t wait to win."
She´s competetive, cocky, charming. You are so unbelievably doomed. Kate joins the other and you stare blankly ahead. Sam glances at you with a smirk, "how are we feeling so far?"
"I´ll tell you later, just keep them coming," you mumble out.
Sam laughs, "got it, lets tear off a band-aid. This is getting better and better, ladies and gantlemen. Welcome Yelena Belova!"
A blonde woman enters with the energy of someone deeply unimpressed by everything and somehow that makes her impossibly magnetic.
Lather jacket, dark shirt, rings on her fingers. Cool confidence worn loosely, like she´s not trying to impress anyone and somehow impresses everyone. Her hair is slicked back, her expression dryly amused, eyes sharp yet soft enough to hint at something warmer beneath.
She stops in front of you, looks you up and down and then she nods once, "good."
You blink, "good?"
Yelena shrugs, "you seem interesting. I was hoping for interesting." Then after a beat, "also pretty. Bonus." Sam physically turns away to laugh.
You feel your soul leaving your body, which makes Yelena smirk, "oh this will be so fun."
You´re still trying to recover from Yelena, when Sam straightens beside you and grin suspiciously. "Oh, (Y/N), you´re pretty much in gay heaven."
"Or hell, it´s hard to tell, to be honest."
Sam nods, with a chuckle, "very true. I´d say both is very entertaining." The doors open again and Sam´s voice rings out, "Carol Danvers!"
And another confidence walks in. Not the quiet kind, like Natasha´s. Carol walks in like she´s used to stepping into high-pressure situations and coming out on top. Tall, huge shoulders, strong arms that look sculpted by the gods themselves. She´s wearing tailored trousers and a fitted white button-up with sleeves rolled neatly to her elbows, showing toned forearms and a sharp watch at her wrist. Devastatingly attractive.
There´s a bomber jacket slung casually over one shoulder like she just stepped off a runway and a military base. Her blonde hair is swept back and her smile...
Her smile is trouble. Very cocky, yet very warm. Her eyes meet yours with immediate focus, it´s like she chooses what deserves her attention and right now, somehow, it is you and only you.
She steps close, offering her hand, "Carol." You take it and immediately notice two things, her grip is very firm, yet her hands are soft.
"It´s really nice to meet you," she says, voice smooth and sure. One of her corner of her mouth lifts, "I´ve heard there´s competetion here."
Your pulse jumps. Carol glances towards the lineup of women already gethered, sizing them up in one efficient sweep before looking back at you. "That´s alright, I like the competition."
Kate from across the room, lets out a small offended laugh, Carol only shoots her a grin. You can feel the instant competitive energy in the room.
Sam whistles, "looks like it´s hot and we barerly even started, that´s what we like to see. Just don´t fight yet, our medic is starting from tomorrow." He looks around, "just joking." Sam looks at the camera lenses and mouths "I´m not... anyway Agatha Harkness, everyone!"
This woman walks in like trouble has been flirting with her for years. Strong hands. Worn boots, that hit the floor with deliberate weight. Dark jeans, a white tank and a weathered flannel hanging open over it, sleeves rolled. Her hair is slightly messy, silver streaks catching the light in a way that makes her hotter. She looks older than the others.
Her whole energy says 'I know exactly who I am.' Agatha walks up to you with a smirk on her face, "oh," eyes dragging over you, "well done, producers."
You nearly choke, hoping that the medic is close, just in case. Sam laughs, "she likes you," he winks to the camera.
"I gathered," you mumble weakly. Agatha then steps close enough, that her woodsy and smoky cologne briefly wraps around you.
"Pleasure to meet you, sweetheart," she says with a teasing grin. "Let´s save everyones time and just-" she offers her hand, while Yelena snorts at her offer. Kate grins knowing exactly what is Agatha doing, while the rest just watches, hoping that you won´t fall for her tactics.
Before you can finish, Agatha´s expression changes, only slightly, but you see it. Her eyes cut sharply towards the doors and her jaw tightens. Like she suddenly senses something unplesant and Sam knows what the unplesant thing is. Or rather who. "Interesting," Agatha mumbles.
You were so deeply wrapped in Agatha´s cologne, you didn´t even realize, that the door openned one last time. Sam looks at the camera knowingly, "last but not least, Rio Vidal."
Rio moves calmly, measured and dangerous. Dark tailored slacks, black silk shirt with the sleeves rolled once at the wrist, rings on her long fingers and dark hair in a bun, showing her sharp cheekbones. She is beautiful in a way, that definetly feels intimidating. Like everyone instinctively makes room for her.
Then her gaze lands, not on you, but on Agatha. And slowly, very very slowly Rio smiles, "small world."
Agatha lets out a humorless laugh, which makes you confused, "you´ve got to be kidding me." You are glancing from one to another.
Wait, what?
Agatha measures Rio, but then she walks up to her spot, where other ladies are, some trying not to laugh, some smirking, knowing this will be a hell of a ride.
Rio finally looks at you and her entire expression softens by a degree. Which kinda makes it worse, because now all that intensity is directed at you. She takes your hand gently, brings it toward her lips, not quiete kissing your knuckles, but close enough, that your entire nervous system short-circuits.
"(Y/N)," Rio says, voice velvery smooth. "Pleasure."
"Oh, she is absolutely not using my dating moves on national television," Agatha mumbles so only Carol can hear.
Rio walks up next to Agatha, but she quickly changes with Carol, so she stands between them. You stare at the lineup and you swallow hard.
"These are our contestants and this is what we call premium television." Sam smiles, gesturing to the ladies.
Natasha elegant and unreadable. Wanda steady and wild. Kate grining at all the ladies. Yelena amused, but sharp. Agatha glaring like she is planing a murder. Carol as a big ball of confidence. And lastly, Rio pleased with herself.
Everyone one of them is impossibly beautiful and you feel so drawn towards them. Your stomach is doing crazy things, not only butterflies but a whole damn zoo. You lean towards Sam, "I think I´m in trouble."
Sam smiles, eyes bright with mischief, "oh, honey." He gestures towards the women, "you were in trouble the moment you walked in. At the end, you are in The Love Initiative!"
pairing: marvel ladies x reader, (natasha x reader, wanda x reader, carol x reader, kate x reader, agatha x reader, rio x reader, yelena x reader)
summary: first episode of very dramatic and very gay dating show, with a lot of chaos, bad flirting and beautiful women.
word count: 2.8k
warnings: none just some flirting and a bit of drama (we´re staring slow)
an: first part of this fun series, wohooo, i truly hope youâll like it! iâm super excited! happy Motherâs Day to all the mommies out there;) hit me up pls
"Welcome everyone... to the very first season of The Love Initiative!" The camera glides over sunlit villa, white walls, glass doors, pool that would be too big for twenty people and a lot of very pricey decorations, before settling on Sam Wilson, the host, standing in a custom burgundy suit.
"My name is Sam Wilson, I´ll be your host and before you ask... yes," he adds, smirking, "this is exactly what it looks like. Ten days. One villa. A group of very attractive, very single women... and one person who´s about to have their life turned upside down." He starts walking.
"Here´s how it works. Our contestants will be living together right here," he points at the villa, "bonding, competing, falling in love... or at least trying not to start unnecessary drama." Sam pauses, then shrugs, "actually, scratch that, there will definitely be drama." A quick glance at the camera, "you´re welcome."
Sam then gestures toward a seperate part of the villa, "and then there is the one and only. Our lead. The one making all the decisions. The one everyone´s here for." Sam smiles, "(Y/N)!"
"Now (Y/N) won´t be living with the others. They get her own private apartment, a little peace, a little quiet place to think... and to question every single decision they make over the next ten days."
"Each day, they´ll go on fun dates, face new challanges and get to know the women who are all here for one reason... to win their heart."
His tone softens just slightly, "and at the end of it all... they´ll choose one person. One woman to leave this villa with."
A beat of silence.
"No preassure, right?" Sam chuckles. "So get comfortable. Get emotionally invested. Maybe don´t pick favorites too early, trust me, never ends well." A pause, then a grin on his face. "because if there is one thing I can guarantee... it´s that sparks will fly!"
Right. So... this is really happening.
You stare at your reflection like it might suddenly give you an explanation how you got here. Here is a beautiful villa bathroom, that is definitely more expensive than your entire apartment back home, about to participace in what is essentially... a televised speedrun of your love life.
Which to be fair, needed help. A lot of help. Because if you´re being honest? Your romantic history could be summed up in three categories - almosts, what-ifs and that one time you thought girl was flirting and she was just cursing at you in another language.
You let out a quiet breath, leaning your hands agasint the sink. So the only solution to your problem is going on a fully televised dating show. Because if you were going to make questionable life choices, you might as well commit.
You straighten slightly, eyeing yourself in the mirror again.
Ten days. Ten days to meet a group of women who are all here for you. To go on dates. To figure out feelings. To... somehow choose one person at the end of it.
Your future girlfriend. Potentially your future wife. No pressure. None at all. Totally normal. This is exactly what well-adjusted people do. You huff out a small laugh, shaking your head. This is very normal gay experience.
The main hall is ridiculous in person. Beautiful ridiculous, to be specific. Warm golden lighting, tall windows, elegant furniture and at the center of it all is a stage framed by soft lights and large flower arrangements.
You stand just out of frame, smoothing your hands down the front of your clothes for what has to be the hundredth time, trying and failing to ignore the pounding of your heartbeat.
From somewhere beyond the cameras, Sam´s voice carries through the room, Unlike someone, he sounds very confident and overall effortlessly charming. "Now, before be begin, let´s talk about the person at the center of all this."
A large screen flickers to life. And suddenly you´re watching yourself. Pieces of you. Quick flashes of a life that feels oddly intimate, seeing it on the big screen now. Of course you remember them shooting it before you went to villa, but seeing yourself with friends in a coffee shop, or walking throught the city with headphones on, reading in your apartment or other candid moments where you look soft, free... it´s weird to see yourself through the eyes of someone else.
Sam narrates over it all, "smart, kind, funny..." he pauses, "questionable taste in food combos, according to production notes." A quiet laugh from the crew, "but most importantly? Someone who has a lot of love to give. And maybe, just maybe, is finally ready to let herself receive some back." The montage ends.
"And now..." Sam´s voice lights with very theatrical excitement. "Here they are- the one and only..." He grins towards the camera, "(Y/N)!"
Oh god.
That´s you.
That is, unfortunately, your cue.
You step out into the light, trying your best not to look like you´re internally screaming. The camera turn and everything suddenly feels very real. Sam meets you halfway, immediately offering the kind smile, that takes some of the edge off.
"Well," he says, gesturing toward you, "welcome in the villa, (Y/N)!"
"Thank you, it is very crazy to be here... in a good way, of course." You laugh, nerves making it come out breathless.
Sam chuckles, leading you toward the center of the room, both of you settling into the easy rhytm of conversation. "How are you feeling?" He asks, softer now, genuine.
You exhale a nervous little laugh, "honestly?"
"Please."
"Terrified. Excited, Slightly nauseous. But mostly excited."
Sam nods seriously, "that´s exactly how I feel every Thanksgiving with my family, so I´d say you´re doing great."
That pulls a real laugh from you, it definetly helps loosening up the nerves.
"Alright, but now the important question."
You immedietly narrow your eyes, "that sounds dangerous."
"It is," Sam folds his arms, "what is your type?"
You think about it for a second before shaking your head, "I... honestly don´t know if I have one."
Sam blinks, "no type at all?"
"No. I mean- obviously I find people attractive, but I´ve never really had a strict type. It´s more about the chemistry, I guess. Personality. Connection."
Sam hums, glancing toward the large closed door at the other end of the hall. "Well," he says, dragging out the word, "that´s actually great news."
You raise a brow, "oh?"
Sam smiles, mischievous, like he knows something you don´t, "because behind those doors..." he points dramatically, "we have plenty of types."
Your stomach flips, not in a bad way. Just in a holy shit this is happening way.
Sam catches your expression and laughs, "so... final asnwer," he turns towards you. "Are you ready for all the ladies?"
You glance at the door, at whatever, whoever is waiting behind them. You smile happily and nervously at the same time, "I am."
Sam claps his hands together, "that´s what I like to hear." He steps back, grin widening. "Then let´s meet your future heartbreaks- I mean..." A beat of silence, "... potential soulmates."
The door open, and the first woman steps through. Sam´s voice carries smoothly across the hall, "Natasha Romanoff!"
You forget how breathing works. She moves like she owns every room she enters, not arrogantly, but with a quiet certainty, that makes the whole space shift around her. Her blonde hair falls in a soft waves over one shoulder, she´s dressed in sharp black tailoring softened by silk. It looks expensive, that´s for sure.
Every detail about her feels unreal. Her gaze lands on you, unreadable at first, then softens, just enough to make your stomach completly betray you.
She steps close, offering a small smile, that already feels like a marrige proposal. "It´s lovely to finally meet you, (Y/N)."
Her voice is velvet and low and-
Right.
Words.
You should use words.
Preferably right now.
"Hi," you manage.
Excellent start.
Natasha´s smile curves slightly wider, amused and she brushes a loose strand of hair behind her ear before stepping to the side. Your heart is doing concerning things.
Sam leans closer, "you´re staring, (Y/N)."
"I know."
"Do you need a minute?"
"I want medical assistance," Sam laughs and so does Natasha.
Then the door opens again and Sam speaks up again, "Wanda Maximoff." As your eyes meet hers, somehow things get worse.
Or better.
Definetly worse.
Definetly better.
Wanda walks in like the wind throught tall grass, effortless, grounded. Her hair falls loose around her shoulders, slightly messy in a deliberate way and she´s dressed in dark jeans, boots, layereed necklaces and a worn flannel hanging open over a top, that reveals strong arms and sun-kissed skin.
You are immedietly in love with at least three things about her. When Wanda speaks it´s simple and casual, "hey you," but you nearly fold in half.
"Hi," you breathe, somehow even less coherent than before.
Wanda smiles and she joins Natasha. You look between them. Two most beautiful women, already devastating.
How many women are left? God.
Sam softly pats your shoulder and he chuckles, "you´re doing great."
"I´m fighting for my life."
"That´s good for the fans." He smirks, then he looks at the door again. "Another lady to the group, Kate Bishop!"
Oh.
This one looks like trouble.
Kate walks in like she´s entering a stadium tunnel before a championship game. Broad grin, shoulders back, confidence radiating off her in waves. She´s tall, athletic, dressed in jeans with sneakers and fitted blazer over a shirt. She absolutely knows she´s hot.
Which is horrible. She knows exactly what she does to people. Her eyes flick over you and brighten immediately, "well, hi there."
That grin becomes flirtatious in half a second, "you´re even cuter than production said." Heat floods your whole face.
Sam makes a delighted sound beside you, "oh, she´s fast."
Kate laughs, stepping closer to shake your hand, but her thumb brushes lightly over your knuckles, deliberate enough to make butterflies explode violetnly in your stomach. "It´s really nice to meet you, (Y/N)," she says, softer now. Then with a wink, "can´t wait to win."
She´s competetive, cocky, charming. You are so unbelievably doomed. Kate joins the other and you stare blankly ahead. Sam glances at you with a smirk, "how are we feeling so far?"
"I´ll tell you later, just keep them coming," you mumble out.
Sam laughs, "got it, lets tear off a band-aid. This is getting better and better, ladies and gantlemen. Welcome Yelena Belova!"
A blonde woman enters with the energy of someone deeply unimpressed by everything and somehow that makes her impossibly magnetic.
Lather jacket, dark shirt, rings on her fingers. Cool confidence worn loosely, like she´s not trying to impress anyone and somehow impresses everyone. Her hair is slicked back, her expression dryly amused, eyes sharp yet soft enough to hint at something warmer beneath.
She stops in front of you, looks you up and down and then she nods once, "good."
You blink, "good?"
Yelena shrugs, "you seem interesting. I was hoping for interesting." Then after a beat, "also pretty. Bonus." Sam physically turns away to laugh.
You feel your soul leaving your body, which makes Yelena smirk, "oh this will be so fun."
You´re still trying to recover from Yelena, when Sam straightens beside you and grin suspiciously. "Oh, (Y/N), you´re pretty much in gay heaven."
"Or hell, it´s hard to tell, to be honest."
Sam nods, with a chuckle, "very true. I´d say both is very entertaining." The doors open again and Sam´s voice rings out, "Carol Danvers!"
And another confidence walks in. Not the quiet kind, like Natasha´s. Carol walks in like she´s used to stepping into high-pressure situations and coming out on top. Tall, huge shoulders, strong arms that look sculpted by the gods themselves. She´s wearing tailored trousers and a fitted white button-up with sleeves rolled neatly to her elbows, showing toned forearms and a sharp watch at her wrist. Devastatingly attractive.
There´s a bomber jacket slung casually over one shoulder like she just stepped off a runway and a military base. Her blonde hair is swept back and her smile...
Her smile is trouble. Very cocky, yet very warm. Her eyes meet yours with immediate focus, it´s like she chooses what deserves her attention and right now, somehow, it is you and only you.
She steps close, offering her hand, "Carol." You take it and immediately notice two things, her grip is very firm, yet her hands are soft.
"It´s really nice to meet you," she says, voice smooth and sure. One of her corner of her mouth lifts, "I´ve heard there´s competetion here."
Your pulse jumps. Carol glances towards the lineup of women already gethered, sizing them up in one efficient sweep before looking back at you. "That´s alright, I like the competition."
Kate from across the room, lets out a small offended laugh, Carol only shoots her a grin. You can feel the instant competitive energy in the room.
Sam whistles, "looks like it´s hot and we barerly even started, that´s what we like to see. Just don´t fight yet, our medic is starting from tomorrow." He looks around, "just joking." Sam looks at the camera lenses and mouths "I´m not... anyway Agatha Harkness, everyone!"
This woman walks in like trouble has been flirting with her for years. Strong hands. Worn boots, that hit the floor with deliberate weight. Dark jeans, a white tank and a weathered flannel hanging open over it, sleeves rolled. Her hair is slightly messy, silver streaks catching the light in a way that makes her hotter. She looks older than the others.
Her whole energy says 'I know exactly who I am.' Agatha walks up to you with a smirk on her face, "oh," eyes dragging over you, "well done, producers."
You nearly choke, hoping that the medic is close, just in case. Sam laughs, "she likes you," he winks to the camera.
"I gathered," you mumble weakly. Agatha then steps close enough, that her woodsy and smoky cologne briefly wraps around you.
"Pleasure to meet you, sweetheart," she says with a teasing grin. "Let´s save everyones time and just-" she offers her hand, while Yelena snorts at her offer. Kate grins knowing exactly what is Agatha doing, while the rest just watches, hoping that you won´t fall for her tactics.
Before you can finish, Agatha´s expression changes, only slightly, but you see it. Her eyes cut sharply towards the doors and her jaw tightens. Like she suddenly senses something unplesant and Sam knows what the unplesant thing is. Or rather who. "Interesting," Agatha mumbles.
You were so deeply wrapped in Agatha´s cologne, you didn´t even realize, that the door openned one last time. Sam looks at the camera knowingly, "last but not least, Rio Vidal."
Rio moves calmly, measured and dangerous. Dark tailored slacks, black silk shirt with the sleeves rolled once at the wrist, rings on her long fingers and dark hair in a bun, showing her sharp cheekbones. She is beautiful in a way, that definetly feels intimidating. Like everyone instinctively makes room for her.
Then her gaze lands, not on you, but on Agatha. And slowly, very very slowly Rio smiles, "small world."
Agatha lets out a humorless laugh, which makes you confused, "you´ve got to be kidding me." You are glancing from one to another.
Wait, what?
Agatha measures Rio, but then she walks up to her spot, where other ladies are, some trying not to laugh, some smirking, knowing this will be a hell of a ride.
Rio finally looks at you and her entire expression softens by a degree. Which kinda makes it worse, because now all that intensity is directed at you. She takes your hand gently, brings it toward her lips, not quiete kissing your knuckles, but close enough, that your entire nervous system short-circuits.
"(Y/N)," Rio says, voice velvery smooth. "Pleasure."
"Oh, she is absolutely not using my dating moves on national television," Agatha mumbles so only Carol can hear.
Rio walks up next to Agatha, but she quickly changes with Carol, so she stands between them. You stare at the lineup and you swallow hard.
"These are our contestants and this is what we call premium television." Sam smiles, gesturing to the ladies.
Natasha elegant and unreadable. Wanda steady and wild. Kate grining at all the ladies. Yelena amused, but sharp. Agatha glaring like she is planing a murder. Carol as a big ball of confidence. And lastly, Rio pleased with herself.
Everyone one of them is impossibly beautiful and you feel so drawn towards them. Your stomach is doing crazy things, not only butterflies but a whole damn zoo. You lean towards Sam, "I think I´m in trouble."
Sam smiles, eyes bright with mischief, "oh, honey." He gestures towards the women, "you were in trouble the moment you walked in. At the end, you are in The Love Initiative!"
summary: you get ten minutes with each of the girls, next one is the sweet wanda maximoff.
word count: 1.7k
warnings: awkwardness, but nothing more
an: i'm still not sure if I would love to be in the reader's place, or if I would die from gay panic
It's crazy what only ten minutes with each of these women can do to you. After the conversations you've had so far, you'd think nothing could surprise you anymore. Their eyes on you, the small lingering touches, the flirting, the attracive smell that is now mixing in the room. But no, you´re not used to it, you´re not ready for another one. At this rate, Sam is going to have to carry you out of this villa in an ambulance.
As you´re patiently waiting for another girl to come to you, outside is a pure chaos. The ladies are visibly fidgety and already wants their turn to steal your heart. Most of them are visibly fidgety. The only exception is Wanda, who waits patiently in line, fingers absentmindedly tracing the cuff of her worn flannel. Somehow she looks completely at ease, as if waiting in line to compete for someone's heart is just another Tuesday.
"Are you impetient, already?" Sam looks at Carol who is moving from one feet to another, moving her weight from back to forth.
"No. I love this waiting," Carol deadpans.
"In that case, I´ll leave you like the last one." Sam smiles innocently, but everyone knows it is not so innocent and he is truly capable of doing it.
"You can´t do that," Carol frowns a bit.
"Can´t I?" With that Sam reaches and drawn another name. "Looks like I can, next one isâŚ" he makes a dramatic pause, not only for viewers now, but also for Carol as a punishment for her temper. "Wanda Maximoff, go on, the stage is yours or should I say garden?" He laughs at his own joke, that is definetly not a good one, but thankfully they can add laughing track in the postproduction.
Wanda walks without a pause to the room, where you´re sitting, her smile immediately reaches her eyes, making them sparkle even brighter. Not that you would notice her eyes or anything⌠Without missing a beat Wanda comes to you and gives you a hug, it´s a good hug, tight, but also not suffocating.
"Hi again," her voice is more at ease now. Somehow more soft and reserved only for you.
"Hi, Wanda," she smells faintly of vanilla and wildflowers, soft and warm Beneath it lingers something fresh and earthy, the scent of soil after rain. You two immedietly sit on the couch.
"How are you holding up?" Wanda asks, concern written on her face.
"Oh, it´s okay. New. But okayâŚ" Very good response for a reality show, Wanda isn´t satysfied either, so she gives you a look.
"I mean it´s still somehow weird, I thought I would have the biggest issue with the cameras, but suprisignly I got used to them pretty early. It´s just⌠all these connections, don´t get me wrong, you all are super nice. Just what if I´ll decide just because I have to and then I will regret it. Not like I would, since all of you are truly remarkable people, justâŚ" You´re not sure how to end this ramble, so you just shrug.
"I see," she scoots a little closer, but still giving you space, "ten minutes for each of us is truly short period of time, but you won´t decide based on today. Just go with your gut, that is always right decision."
"Even if it wouldn´t be you?" You tease slightly, trying to see her reaction. Thanks to the ladies before, you somehow got more confident with yourself, mostly because if anything this is a dating reality show, soâŚ
Wanda chuckles, which makes your heart jump a bit, it is very beautiful laugh, "with broken heart, I would say yes, even if it wouldn´t be with me. Sometimes the flower you choose simply isn't meant to grow in your garden. That doesn't mean it isn't beautiful, it just means it belongs somewhere else, where it can truly bloom."
"That was very poetic," you chuckle, but not in a mean way and Wanda knows it. "You´re like the first one who isn´t jumping on me the moment the door opens."
"Patience is my strategy," you hum at her response, "and also very good smile, poetic metaphors and very, but very amazing cooking skills." She jokes, which makes you chuckle.
"I´ll take that," you smile, "what is your speciality?"
"Hm," Wanda thinks, her finger tapping her mouth, "whatever my future wife wants. What do you like?" Okay, that was smooth, you have to give her a point.
"Okay, I see what you´re doing," you chuckle again.
"I truly cook anything and everything. That´s what I like about cooking." Wanda answer your question.
You nod and you asnwer what is yours favorite thing to eat, "but it´s good to have options, so of course I would like to try something other than my usuals."
"I´ll keep that in mind," she smiles.
After a beat of pretty comforting silence, you speak up again, "so⌠you´re the type who likes to create?"
"Create?" Wanda tilts her head.
"I mean⌠you like to cook different foods, you´re a poet and you have a very nice sense of fashion," you compliment Wanda.
"Oh," she looks down at her clothes, then back at you, "thank you, but yes, I guess you can say I like to create. I have my own greenhouse for like⌠five- six years now. It´s calming in a wayâŚ" You nod, as you like how Wanda´s eyes sparkle even more, when she talks about her interests.
"But also very nerve wrecking, especially if you´re baking something for the first time and you just can´t get it right. Or when you finally get your hands on a Blue himalayan poppy and it immediately decides it hates youâŚ" she laughs nervously, "it´s a fight, but at the end, when you see the final product, it´s worth it."
You smile, "I agree, nothing is more beautiful than the finished product and the feeling you have from it."
Wanda nods, "you create something on your own?"
"Um, not in that way⌠at least I think, sometimes I like to write, or read or⌠be linked with art in any way." Now it´s Wanda´s turn in listening to you, she nods, letting you know, that she is listening and you can keep going. "I feel like it is a safe space, no matter what you´re going throught, or where are you in life. Art is always there for you. At least when you have books and movies in physical form."
"So you are not a fan of online platforms?" Wanda teases.
"I don´t hate it in particular, but⌠nothing beats the moment you open a new book and you smell it, you can touch it, you see how far you made it, it´s more personal. I like personal things."
"That is true," Wanda nods, liking your point of view.
"But it´s not like I won´t watch stuff on Netflix just because I can´t touch it or something," you laugh, "just⌠I prefer the cinemas and the whole process of it."
"A whole process of seeing the movies, I get it," she nods as she leans more into the couch. "Are you the type to come early just to watch the trailers?"
You close your eyes for a moment, "guilty," you open them, "it´s part of the process," you shrug.
"And do you say, 'I´m gonna see this and this!' and then never go see it?" Wanda teases you, but once again, you´re very easy to read.
"You´re saying like it´s a bad thing, but⌠I do. I want to go see it, I just⌠I´m not sure where the error comes from." Your cheeks hurts from the constant smiling.
"Maybe you don´t like going alone," Wanda suggest.
"I don´t have a problem going alone, I like it actuallyâŚ" you say clearly not getting her suggestion, only when you look at her, you get the memo, "oh! I mean⌠I wouldn´t mind going with someone to the cinemaâŚ"
Wanda can´t help but smile, "good to know that as well."
"I´m so used to going alone to many things, that I find it slightly weird to go with someone." You tilt your head at your own words, "now saying it out loud, it sounds very sad."
"Not sad, just⌠honest." Wanda smiles.
"You´re kind Wanda, but it sounds sad."
"Well, I´m sure plenty of people who will watch this show feel the same way," she places a hand on your knee and gives it a gentle squeeze. It's a simple gesture, but unexpectedly grounding. After a moment, she pulls away again, giving you space, yet you immediately find yourself missing the contact
"I completly forgot about that this is the national show and everyone will see it," you sarcastically say.
"Yeah, that´sâŚ" she stops mid-sentence, "don´t think about thousands of people watching it and you´ll be fine."
"ThousandsâŚ" you repeat.
"I´m not helping, am I?"
"Eh, not really," you both laugh at the same time, after you two recover, you ask about her life, being more at ease, which means being more curious and bold, "what about your family and friends, you´re not nervous or anxious about emberassing yourself infront of the whole world?"
Wanda blinks slowly, thinking how to asnwer, for the first time tonight, she doesn't respond immediately. Before she can say anything, the ten minutes are over. Relief flickers briefly across Wanda's face. It's subtle, so subtle you almost think you imagined it. But it's there. Maybe the question was too personal. Maybe it touched on something she'd rather discuss another time. Or maybe you're simply overthinking.
She opens her arms for a hug and you immedietly take the offer and hug her tightly, "thank you, Wanda."
She pulls away and looks at you, "thank you, I had a great time with you."
"Likewise," you say as you two stare at eachothers eyes. When you smile, she smiles as well, the only thing that pulls you from eachother gazes is Sam openning the door.
"Alright ladies, ten minutes are over, let´s give a chance to others, who are patiently waiting," he says as he looks at nodding Carol.
Wanda gives you one last smile, before she is walking to Sam, out of the room. You can´t help but watch her as she goes, till she is fully gone.
How are you supposed to choose one person when every woman who walks through that door leaves with a little piece of your heart?
Maybe a poly relationship could work. Maybe you could date all of them.
No.
That´s definetly not how this show works. Unless?
summary: you get ten minutes with each of the girls, next one is the one and only yelena belova.
word count: 1.3k
warnings: the same as always... bad flirting (sorry not sorry)
an: the more i write for yelena, the more i yearn for that lady
Three more to go, thirty minutes in total and three beauitful ladies⌠it´s guarantee you will die. Somehow you feel like you´re on top of the mountain, but at the same time you can´t breathe at all. You can´t sit still, your knees are bumping up and down. It´s emberassing how nervous you still are. This will look bad onâŚ
Camera slides from Wanda who is walking back to her place, to te women still waiting for their ten minutes to shine. Across the room, Sam and Carol lock eyes once again. At this point, nobody is enterily sure whether they´re participating in a dating show or some bizarre competetive rivaly.
"It looks like Wanda was scoring more than she will ever admit, looks like your chance are getting lower, ladies." He says, looking directly at Carol, with a teasing grin.
"Or the best are going at the end," Rio ads, she didn´t mean to, but she kinda supported Carol in a way. Which makes Carol smirk and nod, "very true," the blonde mumbles under her breath.
Sam, "whatever helps you sleep at night," his hand move to draw another name, "and the next person isâŚ" another dramatic pause, "Yelena Belova." He smirks, "close Danvers, it is a blonde, just another not you, what a shame." He has to do it on purpose.
Yelena smirks and nods, already going to you, not waiting for anything. Sam can´t even finish whatever joke he has prepared. The second she enters the room, the atmoshphere shifts. Not the way Natasha or Agatha did, it is more subtle now.
Yelena stops in front of you, looks at you, "you look better, than I thought."
"⌠thank you?" Before you can figure out whather you´ve been complimented, Yelena drops onto the couch. Is that her way of flirting? You´re not sure.
She hooks one arm over the back of the couch and studies you, like it´s another thing to do this lovely evenning.
You immediately become suspicious, "what?"
Yelena shrugs, "nothing."
"That wasn´t a nothing look."
"It was."
"No, it wasn´t."
A pause, then Yelena smirks. "Okay, maybe I was trying to figure out which one got your attention the most."
"Oh."
Yelena nods, "the panic in your eyes said enough."
"It´s not a panic."
"I´m observant and you´re lying."
"You´re calling me a liar?" You tilt your head.
She nods instantly, "yes."
You narrow your eyes and Yelena narrows hers right back. Somehow it becomes a satring contest, ridiculous one, because neither of you is willing to looks away. Eventually Yelena breaks first, which is suprising, but the thought is gone the moment a laugh espaces her.
"Finally here it is."
"What do you mean?"
"You´re less nervous, that´s good."
You pause, because she is right. Everytime your anxienty rises, the girls have a certain way of calming you down. Kate´s confidence, Nat´s attention, Agatha´s chaos and Wanda´s kindess, it always calms your nerves. Yelena notices the realization on your face and smiles.
"See? You have a weak spot for all of us."
"You do that a lot," you smile back at her.
"Do what?"
"Notice things."
Yelena hums, "I own a bar, it´s part of my job to be good at these things." That explain absolutely everything, "you learn everything quickly."
"About people?"
"About loneliness," Yelena turns one of the rings on her finger, looking thoughtful, "people say a lot after midnight." You find yourself leaning in slightly, "also drunk people are basically toddlers."
You laugh, "that is very true."
"You are one of them, aren´t you?" She meets your eyes again.
"I wouldn´t say I´m a toddler, but⌠each time I drink I do have some sort of existential crisis," you admit, but even if you didn´t, Yelena would somehow figure it out.
"So⌠a toddler. Got it." Yelena exhales like she is annoyed by your answer, but you can´t feel any bite behind her bark.
"What about you? You´re a toddler drinker?" You push back.
"Me? You´re really asking that?" She scoffs, like you offended her whole family tree.
"No, of course not. You´re very cool person," your sarcasm is heard even on the other side of the clossed doors. Yelena stares at you, dead serious, but you can´t hold it anymore and you laugh right in her face.
Yelena looks even more offended, "I´m not a toddler, while I drink."
"Sure."
"I am not."
"I believe you."
"I don´t actually drink that much."
"I don´t drink much either, so with your logic, I wouldn´t be a toddler-"
Yelena cuts you off, "okay, fine⌠you´re not a toddler either, happy?"
"Not where I was going, but I´ll take it," you shrug it off.
"This conversation is stupid," her grumpiness showing.
"You started it," you point out innocently.
"You´re not so shy as I thought you would be," Yelena smirks slightly, as she sees how you´re responding to her banter.
"You´re not as nonchalant as I thought you would be," you lean back into the couch.
The conversation somehow spirals from there. The weirdest customer she´s ever had and how she punched a guy, who asked her to do so. The funniest story from her bar. The saddest customer she´s ever had. You learnt very quickly that Yelena truly remembers people, it´s a bit scary, but she does. Their stories, details, even names and dates. It´s like someone is collecting magnets, she collects people´s stories from her bar. At one point it shifts to you, your favorite movie, then she immediately asks why. You notice she is a bit movie nerd under all of that slicked look.
Before ten minutes are over, she speaks up, more softly now, "I thought you be trying harderâŚ" when she notices to confused look, she adds, "to impress us." You just stare at her, thinking for an answer, which makes her shrug, "most people would."
The statement is simple, not judgmental, "I don´t know, I think we´re here for the same reason, to find love, even if it sounds silly⌠maybe naive. But⌠we´re kinda on the same boat. Is it bad that I´m not trying to be⌠I don´t know⌠someone else?"
"No," she smiles softly. "It´s refreshing."
"You must be tired from all the people throwing yourself at you⌠at the bar."
"Eh, yeah. Most of them are wasted, so you can´t even take it as a compliment," you laugh at her honest words.
Ten minutes are over and you finally see the real annoyed Yelena. That was all an act before, which is nice to know now. Maybe she is not so hard to read either.
"Well," you both say at the same time and you also stand at the same time.
Yelena adjust her jacket, "I wasn´t really sure about this showâŚ"
You cut her off accidentaly, "no?"
She shakes her head, "too many people, too many cameras."
"Then why did you come?"
For a moment, she simply looks at you, then one shoulder lifts, "I thought that maybe I´d meet someone interesting, perhaps someone on the same boat as me."
Your heart does something unfortunate, so you just nod. Simple nod to that very sweet statement. Yelena smiles, giving herself mental scoring point for this one. Then she starts toward the door, halfway she turns around, one hand already on the handle. "I don't mean to brag, but anyone dating me gets 100% off all drinks at my bar."
"Oh god, goodbye, Yelena," you roll your eyes playfully.
"Not goodbye," her smirk returns.
"Go," you shake your head with a wide smile on your face, when you look back up, she is gone.
You can't stand the thought of the whole world laughing at you for being a gay mess over every girl in here, but you just can't help yourself. You've got two more to go, which means another twenty minutes of your heart rate pushing over 120 and praying you won't actually need the medic Sam talked about earlier.
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