What's the 'sitch?

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[cori-hall]

elleohve​:

It does feel like they’ve launched into some type of parallel universe where they stayed together throughout all the years. The conversations were easy, and he was still comfortable as Cori excused herself. Hearing Cathryn speak honestly about her concerns is the biggest reminder of where they actually are, but it’s a concern that he had thought of as well. “You know the last thing that I want is to hurt Cori, or myself again. I’ve never wanted that. I know that we’re risking that again but…” he trailed off, trying not to get too ahead of himself and reveal too much. “I do care about her, that’s never changed. If there was any good to all that time apart, it’s that we’ve both grown up a lot. We both know what it’s like to not be around each other, how hard that was, and I think that’s going to help us in making sure that we won’t go through that again.  The truth is that I’ve spent a lot of time wanting to have her back in my life, so to be here with her now, I know I’m determined to make that stick.” Whether that meant that they’d be trying to make a relationship work or just being friends, he knew that wouldn’t be able to cut her out of his life completely again. He laid his hand on top of Cathryn’s to give a soft squeeze, pulling it back just in time to greet Cori quietly once she sat back down. 

It was great catching up with the rest of her family, he found himself smoothly avoiding some of the prying questions that some of them had in regards to the status of their relationship and turning those conversations around into more neutral territory. He breathed in the fresh air as they stepped outside, happily letting her loop their arms together as he laughed at her joke. “I don’t have the slightest clue who you’re referring to.” Aiden teased, looking down at her and shaking his head in response to her question. “Not bad at all. It was actually really nice. I missed your mom, and it was nice to see everyone else too. It’s crazy to me how much your little cousins have grown up so quickly - they’ve gone from being tiny babies that I used to be scared of accidentally breaking if I held them the wrong way to full human toddlers.” He checked their surroundings as they crossed the road, instinctively squeezing her arm closer to his body as they did. “Is this sponge invited to the wedding then?” he asked, “the bride herself gave me a last minute invite, but I told her that I’d have to check in with you first. She told me that I was a fool for not knowing what your answer would be, but maybe I just like hearing you ask me to be your date again.” A grin stretched across his face then as he looked at her. “Also… are you telling your family about your trip to LA?” 

Walking arm in arm with him she’s happily cozied up, letting her pace be set to his own. Cori is unaware of the conversation that Aiden and her mother had, one that left Cathryn feeling a little easier. Not that she had her doubts but she wanted to ensure what was best for her daughter. Cori knew what was best for her, and in her eyes, that was Aiden. A laugh is heard from her as he jokes around. “Oh come on people were like moths to light when you walked in.” She smiles, watching as cars pass listening to his comments about her family and seeing everyone again. “Oh yeah they’re real humans now who speak real sentences.” She offers with a grin her head resting on his shoulder. Looking up at him she’s grinning at his words. “I didn’t know you spoke with Lylah.” Cori tilts her head smiling - unable to stop. How could she? He was by her side, her family was happy to see her and wanted him there tomorrow - all green flags to her. “I don’t know…” she starts with a joking tone gripping his arm. “Of course you can come, you’re my party trick.” A joke as she slows in front of her hotel again, just down the road.

The question makes her sigh. “I mean, I don’t want any speculation but at the same time they’ll learn eventually.” Shrugging she’s pulling her arm from his, taking his hands instead. “I’ve gotta be up pretty early in the morning.” Cori looks at him with the softest puppy dog eyes. “I really wish I was just a guest tomorrow versus in the wedding. Means I have to wait until dinner to see you again, which is no fun.” She begins playing with his tie glancing up at him. “I mean I’m not entirely tired either… and I think the hotel bar is still open?”

[cori-hall]

elleohve​:

“All due credit will be passed on to Richard. Well, the majority, I’d say that I should get at least twelve percent of it for being able to accurately tell him the exact shade of your dress.” He was speaking of his father, of course, since the man had not disappointed in the slightest when it came to making sure that he would be fully prepared for the event. Outfit-wise, at least. The only payment that he wanted in return was for Aiden to promise to actually explain what was going on - ‘soon’, he’d said when Aiden had tried to brush it off by saying that they were just catching up and that he was on a time crunch. Now that he was in front Cori, who was laughing and teasing, and making his heart feel like it was finally running at full capacity again, he was feeling on top of the world. His head tilted back slightly as he laughed before setting his gaze on her again. “Nothing will keep me from eating dinner, Cor, you know that. But, I will be good and wait for dessert.” 

The familiarity was instant as they walked in and Aiden was greeted with all those faces from his past. Their past. He remembered dinners and celebrations with her family, the way that they’d always made him feel at home. It brought in another wave of nostalgia. There were some light nerves, of course, because he knew that there was plenty of whispers and chatter with the two of them as the topic. But there was also a warm feeling that spread into his heart as he basked in all of the small talk that they’d been pulled into. 

Once they finally reached Cathryn, Aiden greeted her with a warm hug. “Definitely last minute. The greatest twist of fate.” Aiden teased, giving Cori’s hand a soft squeeze as it slid into his. His attention shifted back to her mother as she mentioned seeing his father. “I just got in a few days ago, actually. I wanted to see the family, and play catch up.” He cleared his throat, started to tell her mother about his work in L.A, avoided mentioning anything about their plan because he was definitely going to keep his mouth shut until Cori was ready to tell her about it. “Anyway, it’s always nice to be back and it was a surprise to run into Cori, but a welcomed one.” His smile widened as he glanced at Cori again, trying his absolute best to not seem like such a simp for the woman’s daughter, but it was definitely hard to conceal that. “It’s nice to see you and everyone, so much has changed but it also feels like no time has passed.” 

It’s incredible how easily they’re able to converse with her family, together, despite the lingering decisions that had yet to be made. Still some bit of uncertainty that lingered, but no one was the wiser. It is as thought there was no split, no broken hearts and certainly no awkward holidays asking where the other half of the pair was. Reunited some had said, testing the connection as others had. Cori was just happy to be there, in the moment. How could she not be?

Cathryn doesn’t hide the grin on her features as she speaks with her daughter’s former boyfriend. “Greatest twist in deed. LA? Wow I didn’t think you’d make such a leap.” The woman continues in deep conversation with him, Cori happily watching the conversation unfold. She’s pulled away for a small moment from her young cousin who needed help finding her dad. Cori excuses herself away for a few moments and Cathryn takes a minute to look at Aiden. “You know I’m happy to see you, but I just ask... not to let history repeat itself? Once was hard enough, I would hate for Corinne... well both of you really, to have to go through the same song and dance again.” Cathryn gives a kind grip to his arm before Cori is returning with hushed conversation as the father of the bride launches into a small speech, guiding the two to sit down. 

With dinner in full swing, Cori finds herself in different conversations and slowly becoming more and more exhausted. Eventually, the crowd begins to thin slower and slower and Cathryn herself has left, which makes Cori start her rounds of goodbyes before the wedding tomorrow. Soon enough they’re back outside again, letting Cori feel like she can relax. “Gosh, certainly tomorrow will be just as exhausting, if not more.” She sighs, looking to him with a grin. “But, luckily, someone absorbs some of that attention like a sponge.” Cori jokes, arm looping in his as she mindlessly begins a stroll. “So, as bad as you think it would’ve been?”

[cori-hall]

elleohve​:

Aiden couldn’t remember the last time that he’d been so excited about the future. Even when he’d gotten his job, that came to a close second, but what he had with Cori would always win over everything else. He was excited about going on actual dates with her again, despite how much this was still meant to be a ‘trial’. There was no stopping his feelings though. If he couldn’t stop the way that he felt about her before, then he certainly wouldn’t be able to do that now. He was excited about making up for lost time. He was even excited for whatever awaited them at the dinner. Aiden had always appreciated her family because they always made him feel like he belonged there with how supportive they were. So hearing that her grandfather missed him instantly made him feel better about the entire thing. 

After agreeing to the time and location, he’d headed straight to his parents house, gave them a quick rundown without going too far into the details yet because he knew that he didn’t have the time to answer all of their questions. He rushed into getting ready, called Megan, had a gut-wrenching conversation with her as he ended things. She was upset, rightfully, angry that he’d come to such an ‘abrupt’ decision. By the time that they were off the call and her flight was cancelled, it was time to head to the steakhouse. 

Despite the rollercoaster of emotions that came along with the day, there was a smile on his face the moment that Cori came into view at the door. He could see the double takes that her family gave them as they walked past them and into the place. Both hands rested on her waist as she lifted his tie. “Told you I’d pull it off.” he teased, bringing his hands up to take both of hers as he took a step back so that he could fully admire her dress from up close. He raised one hand to give her a slow spin, grinning as he pulled her closer again, careful not to pull her too close yet since he wasn’t sure how much she wanted her family to know. “You’re beautiful, Cor.” His eyes roamed over her face, voice dropping to a whisper. “As a single man, I’m trying really hard not to kiss you right now.” 

There were plenty of watchful eyes - most definitely a few peeking behind the tinted glass to the restaurant beside them. An undeniable smile sits on her features as she looks at him. “I didn’t doubt that - but I was expecting it to be just a little off. But, you surprised me, I won’t lie.” Giggling, she holds up the fabric of her dress when he’s turning her into a spin. With hands back on her waist, eyes meet his. “Thank you, A.” She hums before butterflies flood her stomach. Single. There’s reassurance there. Despite that, she laughs, a bite of her lip as she shakes her head. “Well if you have desert first I’m not sure you’ll eat dinner.” Cori teases, pulling one of his hands from her waist. “C’mon, I’m sure we’re expected to make an appearance.” 

When they enter the private party room, plenty of faces light up, and hushed conversations can be seen - mainly among the women in the room. It’s not surprising to the young woman, as most of them had been telling her to try to fix ‘the biggest mistake she’s made’ when she gave up Aiden. So, the conversations begin. First with her aunt and her cousin - the bride. “Aiden! What a genuine surprise! How are you dear?” Small talk would consume most of their time before Cori is leading them to their seats next to Cori’s mother Cathryn. You can see the surprise on her face, looking at the two of them as waiters enter the room to take orders. 

“Corinne, I thought you didn’t have a plus one to bring?” She teases with a poke to her daughter’s side. “Ah, it was.. last minute.” The spitting image of the older woman responds before looking at the male. “We kind of ran into each other earlier today and reconnected. Aiden ended up not having plans.” That was far from the truth, but that was a shock bomb they didn’t need to drop just yet. For now, she was enjoying him being there. Cori slides her hand into Aiden’s hand as Cathryn starts to catch up with her daughter’s old flame. “I didn’t know you were still in town? I just saw your father and he didn’t mention anything.” 

[cori-hall]

elleohve​:

“I’ll keep that in mind from now until it’s in.” Aiden teased back with a smirk. His cheeks warmed slightly as she continued to throw garments onto the bed, making sure to not let his eyes linger on it for too long. “I’m more than comfortable as long as it’s you that I’m accompanying.” He knew that it would be a date, official or not. Because everyone at the party, everyone that knew them at least, would see it that way. He wasn’t all that upset about it either. They were taking steps in the right direction. Quick steps, but they had so much history already, it wasn’t like they’d just met and were spinning into this whirlwind romance. They owed this to themselves after all the time apart that was spent silently missing each other. 

“Yeah? You think your entire family has missed me?” He teased with an almost smug grin. Seeing the way that her grin faded at the mention of Megan killed him, but that was more of a reason why he needed to end things with her as soon as possible. Aiden smiled down at her, easing his hand out of hers just so that he could cup her face between both hands again. He leaned down to kiss her softly, thumbs grazing up and down her cheekbones as he did. “I’d love to be there.” He whispered it against her lips, placing another soft peck on her lips before he pulled back, eyeing her dress again. “I’ll try to find a tie that’ll match your dress,” he grinned, eyes meeting hers again, “my dad has a million of them, pretty sure he has every colour imaginable so I don’t think it’ll be a hard task.” He angled her head back slightly so that another kiss could be pressed to her forehead. “I truly am excited to go with you. Even if it meant that you were going to be in LA soon, I wasn’t prepared to say bye yet.”  

There’s such an energy that fills her at the idea. She knows she’ll show up to LA, take the shortest look around and give him the shittiest report ever written. Just to get the point across and give them something to giggle about, among other things. Cori smiles before sitting on the corner of the bed. “Well, it sounds like... a date.” She offers the words hesitantly but there’s a grin despite it. The next question is kind of redundant to her. “Oh no, I know they’ve missed you. My grandfather keeps asking why you decided to go to a different school away from here.” She throws a hand in the air, referring to their hometown. “If it were up to him, I’m pretty sure he would’ve found us a house and put a payment on the mortgage to get us started.” It was far fetched, but most definitely the truth. 

As he’s guiding her lips to his again, she happily sighs into it, bright smile on those lips at his words before he’s meeting them again. Eyes open again to see him look over her shoulder. She follows the gaze to the dress with a grin, looking back at Aiden with a laugh. “I don’t doubt that he does.” The memory is fond, his father. He seemed to have a new tie for work every day and when he’d come home and she was at Aiden’s she’d keep count. Cori was most definitely sure that she’d never seen the same tie twice. With lips on her forehead a hum fills her before she looks at him. “Neither was I. Part of me was honestly going to skip dinner if you’d said no.” Cori does stand now, reaching behind her to grab her dress. “Speaking of, we’ll both be late if we don’t get ready. It’s at the Blossomhill Steakhouse, you know the one off of 88th Street?” Her words are so familiar - this place would never fail to remind her of them and would forever be etched in her mind. “Meet you there?” When he’s out the door, Cori is sat in shock that this was really happening, but continues to get ready despite that. 

She keeps her promise, meeting him at the front door after the quickest run through at the wedding venue. Seeing him standing and waiting, she grins, hearing her aunt’s words behind her. “Corinne is that-” The blonde looks over her shoulder waiving her off. “I’ll meet you inside.” A grin before looking at him as her family files into the building. Lifting up his tie, she holds it up to the lilac color of her dress and smiles up at him. “Near perfect match.”

[cori-hall]

elleohve​:

“I’m a huge fan of this plan.” Now that he was near Cori again, fully experiencing what it was like to be in her presence again instead of just clinging onto those memories, he knew that they had an actual shot at making things work. There was no way in hell that he would be able to give this a half-assed attempt, she was far too important to him for him to not want to go all in. The plan that they had was basically that, even if it was just a trial. He never would have invited anyone else to live with him if he didn’t think that they could make it work. 

His mind was already crafting up a variety of ideas that could count as rewards, but he had to stop himself from diving further into it. It was already hard enough to resist temptation. A smirk lifted onto his lips as he failed, yet again, at fully resisting - “well, that’s not an issue at all. The more detailed, the better.” He couldn’t break their eye contact if he tried, he was far too mesmerized. “We’ll get to fulfill them once the assignment is in.” Once he was actually single, but Aiden was already planning on making that happen later tonight. In a perfect world, it wouldn’t have been done over the phone, but he knew that it would be an injustice to let her come all the way here, just to get broken up with. He knew that he’d have to break the news to his family as well, they’d already started planning on all these dinners with her and all the things that they could do once she arrived. He knew that they’d be perplexed once he told them that not only was she not coming anymore, but that he’d ended things with her. Even more surprised if he told them why. His parents had always adored Cori, but the conversation was bound to be an interesting one, nonetheless. 

Aiden watched her as she manoeuvred around the room, already missing the contact between them, but also prepping to leave with a promise of seeing her soon - because he didn’t want to slow her down while she tried to get ready for the rehearsal. But then her question made his eyebrows raise up. “You mean for the dinner?” he asked, clearly surprised by the sudden invite, but a grin slowly started to form on his face again. “Are you trying to invite me as your date, Cori?” He teased, standing up as he walked closer to her again, looking at her dress before his eyes found hers again. “I do have a suit at home. My parents home, I mean. You don’t think it’ll be too much of an instant shock for your family if I just walked in there with you?” He chuckled softly as he reached out to take her hand. “That isn’t me trying to back out of it, by the way. I’ll just need to get ready, and - well, end things with Megan first.” He squeezed her hand. “And then I can be there.” 

Maybe this is going too fast. For most people that had to be the case. But with the amount of longing and desire to be with him again - it was inevitable. Not a shock to either of them but perhaps the rest of the world. She feels five thousand times better about going into these plans. Taking steps she’d been thinking about for forever now. Her mom had always told her that her self worth and love was not dependent on another person - and she agrees with that, but when it came to not seeing her best friend and favorite person, it made her feel not so great.

“Once the assignment is in. Right, right. I’ll keep that in mind on the flight out.” She teases with a smile, grabbing a change of underwear and tossing it to the bed with the dress, watching him. “Yeah, for the dinner.” She confirms, arms wrapping around herself worriedly. “Only if you’re comfortable, I mean-“ his question lingers and Cori shrugs. “I mean I am the youngest in the bridal party, and I could really use the company.” She teases with a small grin.

The thought of him in a suit was captivating to her. The last time she’d seen it was prom but in this new light and the maturation the two of them had faced since parting - he’d look phenominal. As he takes her hand, she bites her lip, holding his own hand with both of hers. “I- it’ll be a surprise. For sure. But I don’t think they’d be upset with the extra guest. Especially with who the guest is.” A small grin appears but fades softly at the reminder. Even with as exciting as this was - she was still splitting a couple up. She takes a harsh swallow before nodding. “You can say no, if you’re uncomfortable to interrupt but…” a thumb trails over his knuckles softly, “I would really love for you to be there.”

[cori-hall]

elleohve​:

It was almost funny how easily the broken pieces seemed to instantly glue back together now. Those same pieces that, at one point, he thought would be impossible to mend together again. He still hated all the time that had passed time between them, time that could have easily been spent together. They’d be living together by now if they’d done this earlier, but the fast track of her staying with him, even if she did decide to make it a temporary thing, pushed him forward. “It’s settled then. You keep mine, and I’ll be keeping yours.” 

Aiden somehow knew that the mischievously flirty comment was coming before she even responded. Or maybe he’d just hoped that it would. Despite how much he knew that it probably wasn’t wise to fully dive into it yet. It was hard not to though, especially with her being so close, and her feeling her touch against his skin. “Oh, do you? I have no doubt that you’re going to kill it. And I’d be more than happy to hear all of your ideas.” He grinned, because he couldn’t help it, “I’m sure that I won’t have any issues with honouring them.” 

There was no more room for any of the doubts to creep in. He would no longer try to talk her out of it, not when he was seeing all the ways that it could benefit her as well. All he wanted was for Cori to be happy, and if her being happy also aligned with them being together again, then he definitely was not going to stand in the way of it. “ I like that percentage.” One hand moved to wrap around her waist as she settled into his lap, keeping her close as he fought back a groan. His other hand tangled into her hair as they kissed, grinning into it. Aiden was all of a two seconds away from letting his hands wander further down her back, ready to feel her skin against his fingertips - - but then he was forced back into reality. This time he couldn’t actually hold back the small groan that escaped once Cori pulled away, his hand gently running up and down her back as he looked from her, to her phone, and then back again. “Is everything okay? Do you need to be somewhere?” 

The mood in the room had done a complete 180 since they’d entered it. Complete change of pace, of topic, of navigation, the entire thing had flipped on it’s axel. Though, it’s hope filled, and far more exciting than the previous matters. “Sounds like a plan to me.” A wide grin on her face as she tries to keep her hands off him. Emphasis on try. 

It seemed like the temptation grew by the minute with how close they were, how comfortable they were. To just slip back into familiar and fonder memories. Repeat it all and make i just like before. But she’s vividly reminding herself that it’s bad enough that they’re here, lips locked on one another when he’s actively dating someone else. That doesn’t stop the next response that she crafts. “Absolutely. You should know that I’m a very creative person so my rewards might be a little more... detailed in the way they’re honoured.” A snicker before watching his eyes for a moment. Just being able to see them, and the way they seem to shimmer when he’s here - it makes her heart flutter.

There was no changing her mind. She was already drafting the language in her head. This letter is to inform you that as of two weeks from the printed date of this letter that, Corinne Hall will be leaving the company. She would’ve set it in stone if she had the know how to engrave it. The life she was living had been subpar compared to the past hour he’s been around - and she’s tired of it being that way. Every part of her was cursing her phone for existing, because it was ruining a pretty damn good thing, but it was keeping her on time. She takes note of the displeased sound that leaves him when she’s leaning back to look at her screen. Phone goes back to her pocket, hands to his shoulders as she gets up while explaining. “Everything’s fine. I um - remember I’m here for a wedding? I’m in the bridal party so I have to be at rehearsal dinner tonight.” She explains, sighing as she moves about the room to start the process of getting ready, including pulling her dress from the closet. As she does so, a wild idea comes to her mind. “Um... are you busy... tonight?”

[cori-hall]

elleohve​:

Aiden had missed her wit and how easily they kept up with each other. A small smirk formed on his lips. “Luckily for both of us, negotiation does happen to be one of my stronger suits. The good thing is that it’s a win for both of us in this case.” He was over doing things that didn’t benefit the both of them anymore. They’d tried that already and clearly failed at it in the long run. He smiled then and nodded his head. “You have taken great care of it. You’re still the only person that I’ve trusted with it for this long, so clearly I agree with you on that.” In case Cori needed any further proof that he hadn’t fallen in love with anyone else since their break up, that was it. There was that huge line between dating and actually being in love with someone and Aiden had never crossed that line with anyone but her. 

The mention of a book report and their old history teacher made Aiden laugh loudly, looking her over as she leaned into him. “Ah, yes, you’re right…” He trailed off, easing the laughter down as he pretended to think about a deserving reward. He smiled then, leaning in a bit as well. “If you get a good grade - let the record show that I have no doubt that you would, Miss Hall,” he teased, “then perhaps it’s only fair to let you choose the reward.” He pulled back slightly and the grin was back on his face. 

It does feel dreamlike, being with her again. It’s something that he has dreamed about, far too many times to count. But the difference was that this time, he wasn’t going to be pulled away from the moment as soon as his alarm rang. He could feel how real it was. How real she was. “It is,” he gave her waist a soft squeeze, “nothing had ever felt quite as real either.” The question made him pause momentarily, both in shock and in excitement. A two weeks notice would make things even more official. “Are you sure?” He asked her, the smile on his face a clear indication that he wasn’t trying to back out. He pulled her with him as he sat down on the bed again, hands reaching out to brush the loose strands of her hair back. “I’m not going to talk you out of it Cor, not anymore. So as long as you’re sure, and as long as that is truly what you want then…” His lips lifted even higher upwards, filling in the gap, silently telling her to go for it. 

A hum before she’s grinning. “Well then I’ll have to keep it then. Don’t fix what ain’t broken.” Cori retorts, grinning alongside him. It’s reassuring to know that they were both on the same page even if it felt like they hadn’t been in a long time. The natural ease of conversation - rhythm and flow of it was comforting in it’s own way. 

The blonde looks at him with amusement, with a tilt of her head paired with it. His response makes her giggle, but hazel eyes look to his, a small mischievous grin on her features. “Well then I’ll have to do my best now won’t I?” She teases in her own manner, fingers trailing along skin. “My choice? Well then you’ll be happy to know I have quite a few ideas in mind.” There’s a glint of flirtatiousness too it - but merely that. A hint. They’ve just stepped back into this territory again, she’s not going to cross any lines she can’t quite see. 

It’s somewhat irresponsible - to drop everything for the man in front of her, but it was reality. She would’ve quit her job then and there if he’d asked her to. He’s already got her moving across the damn country, what another life choice dictated by Aiden? “A thousand percent. You’re giving me an out, here, I’d be stupid not to take it as quickly as I can.” Cori can tell what his answer is without him saying a thing, but it almost like a dam is broken, and the feelings flood the room. She’s quickly pairing her lips with his, ever so softly climbing into his lap (more like straddling him) but she doesn’t care. Anyway to get closer to him, back to normal, back to them. She’s briefly pulling away for a quick breath of air, but returns back to his lips. Cori has every intention on keeping up her habits, hands cupping his face - until the silence of the hotel room is interrupted by a cell phone alarm. The blonde assumes it’s his - til she remember it’s hers. Pulling away, she’s tugging her phone from her back pocket, reading the screen as she turns it off. Rehearsal dinner in 30 minutes. “Ah shit.”

[cori-hall]

fxrbidden-dxsires​:

Of course he knew that they shouldn’t, but he wanted to. Ever since he’d first met her, he’d wondered how it might feel to be inside of her. And he knew that if she didn’t want him like he wanted her, then she would have stopped it already. “We should.” he murmured and then captured her lips with his own again, fingers moving slowly against her bundle of nerves.

There’s no arguing with him. Not when his lips are on hers, and his hand is down her pants. She’s well aware that there should be an abundance of guilt wracking through her right about now. Frankly, Cori could give less of a shit with the way he’s moving. Hands have moved to cup his head, lips moving carefully against him - somewhat sloppily. It’s not until she can feel herself get frustrated as his pace that she says something. “Slow and steady isn’t going to get you very far.” 

[cori-hall]

fxrbidden-dxsires​:

He slowly moved his hand down her stomach, pausing just before he reached the hem. He reached up with his other hand to turn her head to capture her lips with his, eyes closed before their lips even met. When he opened his eyes to look at her, he found that it was Cori, and not his girlfriend in his arms. He looked at her for a moment before he gave a small smirk. ‘’Such a bad girl.’’ he purred as he moved his hand under her clothing, and between her legs.

Cori feels like if she said anything - if she were to move, she was damned, but she was damned if she didn’t, wasn’t she? There’s no real way around it, no winning outcome. So, as he’s directing her lips to his she doesn’t resist. She’d be lying if she didn’t admit that she’d thought about how his lips would feel, and it was far better than she imagined. It’s not long before he’s pulled away, recognizing that this isn’t his girlfriend. Yet, he’s still going, not even phased. “James- what-” She nearly jumps as a hand continues to slide. “I was just waiting- we shouldn’t.” What had started out as an excuse, and explanation, soon morphed into a statement to advise them both against what was clearly already in motion.

[cori-hall]

elleohve​:

There wasn’t a single thing that Aiden hadn’t missed about her. How easy it was it was to talk to her, to just be with her. All that time apart and they fell right back into it so easily. He mirrored the small smirk - “I think that we can come up with a deal, don’t you?” His head shifted from side to side once as he pretended to think about it for a moment longer. “Don’t know if I’d necessarily want to give it back, or even take my own back. Might as well keep each other’s. As long as we both agree to keep the other’s safe and, potentially, near. How does that sound?” It already felt safer now. They had plans, it wasn’t just going to be abandoned again. Not as long as they both stuck to their words.

The sound of her laughter sparks so much joy from within him. He wanted to hear so much more of it. Not just here, but in LA, anywhere and everywhere else. “I thought it would.” He continued to play along. “Maybe I’ll be nice enough to book you a tour bus or something. I hear those can get pretty interesting. And, you know, informative. You might even learn more about the city than I do. So when you do come back, you can just write me a letter about all your new findings. I’d get to reading it in like, two or three business days.” 

There was no room to feel any guilt creep in, even the inkling of that feeling was overpowered by how good it felt to melt into each other. He’s bent down some more, not wanting her to strain her neck too much, lips moving in sync with hers. His fingers combed down her hair until his hand was joining his other at her waist, pulling her in some more. He only pulled back just enough to take in some air, forehead resting against hers in that time. “I swear to god if this is just some dream, I’m raising hell until I get to stay in it forever.” He murmured it softly, thumbs roaming up and down against the small of her back. “I don’t know how I’m expected to leave without you at all now.” 

His teasing banter keeps her smile solid on her features, quick thinking letting her refute a witty response of her own. “I don’t know, negotiation isn’t my strong suit.” Cori smirks, before humming. “I think I can do that. I’ve taken pretty good care of yours I like to think.” Near. That’s all she could ask for. The chance to be by his side. Whatever it took she was willing to try because it wasn’t worth living in New York if she was unhappy. Not when her heart and soul wanted to be elsewhere, and now it had the chance to.

“What? Field trip around LA and a book report? I feel like I’m back to AP History with Mr. Davidson, suddenly.” She teases but Cori leans forward to him with a grin. “And if I get a good grade on this report? What would I get? I mean seems only fair for there to be a reward.” These stupid and silly jokes if there’s were what she lived for. It was so natural to fall into a rhythm with them again, and that was all she could ask for. She’s suddenly so beyond ready to pack up and move if this was how her days were going to be again.

There’s a way she forms into him, pairs herself alongside him like a puzzle piece that got lost under the couch. His hands of her felt so reassuring, Cori is reeling from it all. There was no way this was a dream anymore because it was so elaborate so detailed and so blissfully pleasant. Most of her dreams came with a consequence or two and she couldn’t spot a single one. It’s not until he’s pulling away that she realizes how desperate for air she is, which is voiced by the somewhat pant that leaves her, forehead still touching his own. “I have to keep telling myself this is real. It feels way too good to be true and yet… it is.” Her nose habitually nuzzles into him softly at his question. “Would it help if I put my two weeks in tomorrow?” Cori was more than ready to get as far from her firm as she possibly could and if Aiden was willing to give her a reason, she would take it.

[cori-hall]

elleohve​:

Aiden would have had to end things with Megan eventually, whether or not Cori and him had found each other again here. It wasn’t like he could have gone his whole life pretending, right? Maybe. He was glad that he didn’t have to find out. Glad that the universe had worked in their favour this time, when it so obviously hadn’t all those years ago. But maybe this was just the way it had to be. They had to grow without each other first. Although, he definitely would have appreciated not having to feel all that misery in the time apart. His own face broke out into a smile as well. “Guess I will.” He chuckled softly. “Think I have a pretty good chance?”  There was an amused smile on his face as she started to scold him, and he had to force himself to tone it down as he nodded his head, giving her a solemn look. “Oh sure, I’ll just ignore you the entire time. Put you in the guest room, give you a map of the city and act like you’re not even there.” Fully joking, as if he were even capable of ignoring her when she was right in front of him. “Kidding. I promise that I’ll still work. If you must know, I’m incredible at multi-tasking.” And just like that, Cori confirmed that she would be in LA, and he nearly pulled her right back into his arms, but managed to contain himself. His face lit up though, hands squeezing hers once more. “Cool.” It was all he could say, his brain working on overdrive with the newfound hope for their future. It was so hard to keep that distance between them already, and Cori’s question only made it harder. His eyes trailed down to her lips, still remembering the way that they’d tasted from earlier.

Honestly, Aiden had half a mind to call Megan in that exact moment, to let her know that they were done and not to take that flight in three days. He wanted to, to make himself feel better, but he also didn’t want to deal with that conversation and ruin the moment with Cori. He just promised himself that he would do it later, when he was alone, he owed her that much. They needed to have a proper conversation. For now though, his focus was solely on Cori. “Let me think about that for a second.” He stood up as he said it, letting go of her hands, lifting his own up to cup her face between his hands. “Maybe…” he smiled, tilting her head up as he leaned down, lightly brushing his nose against hers, “now?” His lips were instantly on hers then, fingers crawling into her hair, one arm dropping down to hold onto her waist. 

She feels electric, and she’s not sure which emotion is causing it. The excitement of it all, the nervous butterflies of being around him again or maybe the anticipation of the future - all she knows is she is far from upset about any of this. Maybe Cori should be, since she’s technically broken up a couple, but when half of that couple still had her heart, she would not lie. “Well that depends. You think you’re gonna give me mine back?” She hums with a small smirk.

It’s incredible how he’s managed to be both the reason she was in the worst moods possible and now on top of the world. A laugh leaves her at his words. Genuine. Somewhat loud. Real. “Yeah let me just fly across the country to wander around this giant city alone. Sounds like such a good idea.” Saying it out loud really settled the deal. If she didn’t have stuff to do tonight, she’d book her flight the second she could. Maybe Cori would. All she knows is he’s back at her side, and rather happily at that.

She’s being rather bold, but there’s nothing more that she wants than to hold him. To remind herself she’s not dreaming, this is real. They were reconnecting. She was leaving New York. Pieces were falling into place again. Cori’s still well aware that there’s someone else involved - but, that person isn’t with him. That person isn’t standing with his hands cupping her face about to kiss her. When his lips meet hers again, her hands first grab his biceps, gripping to steady herself from the sudden movements he’s making. Though as she melts, they slide up around his neck as best as they can. It’s a familiar reach, the height difference something she would always laugh about, but now it’s the most comfortable discomfort. Fingers tangled in hair, sloppy open mouthed kisses. She’d stay here forever if he let him.

[cori-hall]

elleohve​:

Maybe he should feel more shattered about Megan. From the outside looking in, it all seemed like it had been going so well, with her coming down to meet his family now. But Aiden had been running through the motions, doing what he thought was right, going based off of some common timeline. He did care for her, wanted only the best for her, and that wasn’t him. Aiden had been selfish with her heart for far too long, letting her hand it over to him when he could barely offer her a fraction of his. To make that go on any longer would be a disservice to everyone involved. So when Cori asked the question about it being lost, an almost amused smile pulled onto his face. “Yeah.” He nodded slowly. “Guess it’s been in New York.” 

The very moment that Cori showed that she was receptive towards the idea, he was already running through the logistics in his mind. It wouldn’t be hard to welcome her at all. LA was expensive, but luckily for him, the job made it so that he could actually afford to stay there. He even had a guest room, one that was never really occupied by anyone else. He had briefly considered getting a roommate at some point just to fill it, but the idea of sharing his personal space with a stranger hadn’t been appealing to him in the slightest. So now it was just used for extra storage, and whenever his friends needed a place to crash, or his family came down to visit him. 

He would make that room more welcoming for Cori, he just needed to brighten it up, add some more life to it. “You’re not going to take up my time or distract me - at least not in any negative way. I promise, you’ll see that for yourself once you’re there.” He lifted both of her hands up, bringing them up to his lips, placing a kiss on her knuckles, giving them a squeeze before he eased them back down. He grinned then, another new wave of excitement flooding through - “so you’re coming then? To stay with me?” He needed to hear her say it, to put it out into the universe so they could cling onto it. “We’ll figure out the dates and everything later if you need some time to sort through that.” 

For starters, she was sure that she was putting him in a hard position. The conversation he would have to be in with this girl wasn’t going to be easy. How else do you explain a sudden breakup? Part of her feels guilty. The other part is desperately trying to hold back from attaching herself to him and not let go. His next words make her melt in front of him. There hadn’t been a smile until then, and it was wide. She was well aware her heart and mind were elsewhere. She’d just not known where it had ended up. “Guess you’ll just have to get it back then, won’t you?” She hums, head tilting with a smile.

The logistics would be interesting. First would be her two weeks notice, along with resignation papers, then booking flights, maybe even packing? By the time she came back to New York she’d probably be well beyond ready to go to LA. Commit long term. Especially if that included being around Aiden for days in end. There’s a flutter of excitement through her as she thinks about the entire pending trip now, watching him get just as excited.

“I-If you say so. You- just promise me you’ll actually work while I’m there? No half days or taking vacation days. I want you to pretend I’m not even there during work hours.” She’s nearly scolding, as she’d hate to disturb him from something important. A small smile fills her features as lips press to skin again. The blonde woman gives a slow nod. “Yeah. Yeah I guess I am.” But soon after she says the words a smile breaks out. This was step one. She was getting this back. This. What she thought of so frequently, and always ended back in la la land about. Them. She’s still holding his hands, letting them sway while she watches his face. “So.. when can I kiss you again? ‘Cause I don’t want you off guard again or anything.” She teases, the smallest bit of a smirk on her face.

[cori-hall]

elleohve​:

“I’m one thousand percent serious.” Aiden confirmed, a small, nervous laugh of his own spilling past his lips. “I know it wasn’t your intention but - I can’t pretend like that didn’t just happen. Or that I didn’t enjoy it, or want more of it. I can’t simultaneously feel all of that and still have someone else waiting on me. Not when my heart is here.” 

He didn’t even care anymore, just needed to get it all out in the open now that everything had changed, and now that they were discussing it. He swallowed as he listened to her, still fearing that he would be ruining her life by asking her to move for him. But the knowledge that she wasn’t happy where she was anyway was still winning over. Because he knew that he could make her happy, he just needed them to be together in order to do that. 

Aiden smiled as her thumb caressed his skin, his hands resting on her waist instead, thumbs running up and down her sides. “I’m sure.” he assured her, “I’m telling you, you don’t have to move right away. See how it is first. Maybe…” his pressed together, pausing for a moment as he tried to figure out if whatever he was about to say would be too much, too soon. But then saying it anyway: “Maybe you can stay with me during that trial period. It’s cool if you don’t want to, just throwing it out there, but I can find a hotel instead if you wanted. Either way, I’ll be able to drive you around to find job postings… if you still don’t find anything, and want to go back to New York or Seattle works out instead then that’s fine. But, I just think that it’s worth it to give LA a real shot.” 

There’s a war going on in her. She’d said it herself - the situation was unfair. For her. For him. For them. For Megan. Someone would lose no matter the outcome. Cori certainly didn’t expect him to take it so well but it confirmed suspicions. While she hated to be the cause of a breakup, she selfishly, was excited with the outcome. It finally settles over her when he sits looking to her. “Has it been lost for a while?” She asks, referring to where his heart had been. She knew the feeling - she’d had to lock hers away and ignore it, the way she’d neglected it left it battered and bruised, not nearly as whole as it had been with Aiden. 

This conversation had blossomed into something far more than she’d intentioned. No plans for kisses, admissions, plans of leaving jobs and flying around. It was just to gloss over what she knew. Which was that she missed him terribly and needed a solution. Long term. The opportunity that was being laid out in front of her was... ideal, if she’s honest. Back with one of her favorite people, a better career on the horizon, happiness just in reach. 

His touch sends shocks to her body,causing shivers now and then. It was wild to her that she was even here, talking about a next step. Next. Meaning there was more to come. “That...would be nice. Get a feel... without the um...” The word is there. Right on her tongue. It just doesn’t feel right though. Like it was too sharp of a sword to enter into this negotiation. “The intention?” She finds a filler word that seems to emphasize her uneasiness. “Either way, if that’s okay with you - I don’t want to take up your time and distract you from work I - you have a job ad a life to keep up even without my involvement.”

[cori-hall]

elleohve​:

There was brief moment when silence filled the air and he wondered if he had taken it too far. Maybe Seattle truly did have her heart. Maybe it wasn’t fair for him to derail that plan, put up this offer when she’d already made up her mind. To have her take that leap to finally leave New York and then end up in another city that she hated? That would be cruel and heartbreaking, and he would never want her to suffer through it again. He’d been so sure that she would love LA, but maybe he just didn’t know her as well as he used to. The air felt thick with tension as he tried not to pay too much attention to the way that her eyes seemed to drop down to his lips, tried not to let his eyes do the same thing. He knew he’d be done for the moment that he did. He nearly backtracked when she pulled her hands away, but then they were suddenly on his face and before he could even catch a breath, her lips were on his. Aiden had spent countless nights, countless days, craving the familiarity of it. Wishing that he could fill in that space, make the imagination become a reality. To be with her again, hold her again, and now that it was happening - she was gone. His hand lingered in the air, it had been on a path to tangle into her hair but then Cori had stepped back and he had to pull himself back into the reality again. He finally let out a breath as she apologized. A small smile started to pull onto the corners of his lips as she took the apology right back, eyeing her with amusement and wonder and want. 

But he had a girlfriend. Aiden had never been a cheater, always loyal to the core, but how could he not be? The majority of his life as a boyfriend has been spent with Cori, and she had always been everything that she wanted and so much more. There was no one else but her. And now that he was someone else’s boyfriend? The same fucking thing applied. Megan was great. Megan was kind. Megan… wasn’t Cori. 

His eyes shut and he ran a hand over his face, groaning softly against the palm of his hand once it reached his lips, before he fell back onto the bed. “Fucking hell, Cori.” He finally spoke, eyes opening to look at the fan on the ceiling. “I’m breaking up with Megan.” He announced, like it was the most simple thing in the world. His eyebrows furrowed because it was. It would be the easiest decision he ever had to make. A tough talk, maybe, but if it meant that he’d have another chance at getting it right, with the right girl? Then he’d be a fool to not take it. He sat up again, looking at her, leaning forward to take her hands into his once more, pulling her closer again. “You really think I’d be capable of asking you to come to LA, to potentially move to LA, in the same city as me… if it meant that it didn’t include me? Cori, the one thing that LA is missing, that keeps it from being everything that I want in a place to live at is you.” 

The distance she’s forced to make between them - just so she doesn’t attach herself to him - seems to shrink as the moment moves into decisions and ultimatums. But, when he speaks, she’s sat in surprise looking at him sprawled out on the bed. “You’re not serious.” A stifled laugh leaves her. “That was never my intention, Aiden.” A slow step and she’s in front of him again, arms crossed.

As he’s pulling her closer, Cori finds herself between parted legs, the dark haired male looking up at her. The way he’s explaining how his own home didn’t feel like home, and it finally soul with her there was somewhat heart wrenching. She has no job prospects. No applications, no place to live - she doesn’t even own a car having relied solely on subways and Ubers to navigate the city she lives in.

Teeth pull her bottom lip in as hands are held by his own. “I’ve got no place to live, no job, no car… any reasonable person would say no to such a choice.” Her hands move to clasp around his neck, looking at him as a thumb caresses along his jaw. “But I’ve never been known to be reasonable when it comes to you.” Cori thinks for a little while before a whisper leaves her. “Are you sure that this is what you want? I mean.. I would drop everything if it meant you were around again. Even if that’s once a week.”

[cori-hall]

elleohve​:

Aiden could see her mouth moving, a little too focused on her lips, not actually making out the mumbled words but forcing himself to look away from her, away from the shirt - gaze dropping down to his lap again. His heart seemed to skip a beat or two at her question - sucking in a breath, lips parting, and then closing again as he bit the insides of his cheek. It felt like Cori could see right through him, and he had to take a moment to consider the question. “I don’t know, Cori.” he groaned softly, shaking his head, unable to come up with any answer that would make him feel less shitty. His eyes were glued to her, the anticipation building in his chest as she stepped closer to him. His hands itched to reach out, to grab her by the waist and pull her right up against him. Another more silent part of him was telling him that now would be the time to leave the room. But leaving Cori again? The most difficult decision of his life was when they’d done that the first time. He couldn’t bring himself to do it again, now that he had the choice. “What if you did come to LA?” The question spilled out in a rush. “Seattle is fine. I mean, you’re right it is close. But - - I think you’d really like LA, Cori.” There would be no question about it being the right place for him if she were there as well. “You can see if there’s any job openings there. It would be good to do those things in person. I’ll do some research too. I’m sure I have people in my contacts that might be able to give us some insight.” They hadn’t been an ‘us’ in so long, and he wasn’t trying to get ahead of himself, he knew he had a whole other person to consider, but he needed to try. His hands reached out to grasp onto hers, giving them a squeeze. “I think that would be a good start.” 

His quiet makes her uneasy. Maybe she’d miscalculated? He is dating this girl for his own benefit. Not just an escape from her. Though, his answer - while vague - is reassurance enough for her. There’s a conflict that comes up when the question is asked. Which certainly is enough for her. Because it means there’s a chance. A chance that even with as stupid as she feels right now, that there’s a do-over, a second chance, a rekindling or even a stupid mistake. Right now she’d take anything that he’d be willing to give to her. The next question lingers in the air alone for a while. No accompaniment, no rational means of an excuse for why it was asked. Soon after, the question’s neighbors come along; reason and convincing. Cori knows the reality. LA would be great for her. A fresh start, beaches everywhere, sunshine and much more opportunities for her. Possibly even building mansions for the rich and famous, which would be insane in all reality. That word pops up. That pronoun. That damn two letter thing that made up so much despite it’s brevity in pronunciation. Her eyes move from his to his lips and back to his once more. When his hands are in hers, she’s feeling 16 all over again, stomach flipping and tying into knots. Cori pulls her hands away. But soon, they’re cupping his cheek, the back of his neck and bringing him in the short distance between him, lips finding his for the first time in years. 

She bathes in it, the worry that was lingering, the small remaining drops of coffee from the cup he’d thrown out on the way here, the familiarity. But the rational becomes apparent, and she’s pulling away. Cori’s taking a large step back, needing the distance to be there, because she’s unsure she’d stop herself again if she were any closer. “I’m so sorry.” Her face is somewhat in horror, surprised at herself, shaking her head. Her speech delays as her jaw slacks, lips parting ever so slightly. “That was a lie. I probably should be but I’m not... LA sounds amazing... but only if that includes you, Aiden.”

[cori-hall]

fxrbidden-dxsires​:

James had absolutely no idea that this was his girlfriend’s sister that he was currently touching. “Sounds like you missed me too.” he hummed with a small smirk on his lips. He moved her hair from her neck and started pressing kisses to it, his hands going from her waist to her stomach. “Why don’t I see just how much?” he murmured in her ear, one hand slowly moving down her stomach.

The blonde nearly drops the glass in her hand as lips reach her skin. Cori, for the love of everything say something. But she doesn’t. She’s frozen, simply setting the glass down as hands grip the edge of the sink. His next works make her stomach flip. There’s no way - but still. She doesn’t move, don’t speak doesn’t say a word. How can she? She’s somewhat sure that eventually he’ll realize she’s not who he thinks she is... surely.

[cori-hall]

elleohve​:

Aiden had to stop himself from suggesting that she look into openings in LA. He knew that it would completely contradict what he’d just said about not following him anywhere - although, this time it wouldn’t be her putting her career on the line if she was going to work from there as well. But, he still kept his mouth shut because he still had another reason for it: Megan. He had to actively keep reminding himself about her now that he was in Cori’s presence and their conversation was making it harder to deal with their reality. His lips twitched a bit when she didn’t seem to realize what she’d just stepped out in, wondering if that meant that she wore it a lot still. Well, it had to considering that she’d packed it for a vacation. “Glad it’s still well-loved.” he commented softly. Somehow teasing and sad at the same time. He hadn’t really wanted to admit the most recent part. He knew that it probably painted him in a negative light, that he’d been so ready to just ditch his life in LA to see her. But it wouldn’t have been fair, to let her speak her truth and keep his own away. They’d always been honest with each other when they were together, it was just when they were apart that they seemed to have trouble with it. His thumb and index finger reached out to rub the top bridge of his nose, and then he sighed, dropping his hand to his lap again. “Apparently.” He was quiet for a beat, unaware of what to say now that they’d somehow managed to make the air even thicker. “So we’re both miserable. You hate New York, and all the people that you work with are dumbasses that don’t realize how talented you are. And I’m just… going through the motions with everything in life.” He shook his head, “where are we supposed to go from here?” 

A misty eyed smile is given to him as she fidgets with the material. “Yeah. Among other things.” The second part is mumbled and not even remotely clear, and for good reason. She doesn’t need to prod in his life more than she already has. His statement makes her look at him with concern. “Did you start dating her just to prove a point to yourself?” It’s a loaded question. One that the answer would be very telling. Depending on how he answers it… it could change everything. Not that she wants to take him away from the other girl. But… he said it. He’s nearly jumped on a plane two months ago to track her down. Every part of her wishes he had. Made the selfish move. Gotten on the plane. Saved her on his metaphorical white horse. “Yep.” She pops the ‘p’ sound, putting more emphasis on it before glancing at him. “We can either pretend this never happened…” Cori starts. But while looking at him she catches his eyes. She wants to keep them. On her. On them. On a new chapter for both of them. “Or we be irrational and emotional.” She’s gently stepping in front of him, giving a soft look. “I applied to a job in Seattle three weeks ago. That’s a lot closer than New York… Megan involved or not I don’t think I can not see you again after this.”