red string of fate

noah puckerman. mckinley high titan (and everywhere else in between).

[fatedrachel]

v. two - attraction

[fatedpuck]

fatedrachel:

[It was abundantly clear from the offset that Puck was a bit of a smooth talker. It was obvious that Puck was used to having his way with the ladies, and if perhaps if she’d been a hockey groupie or whatever they’re called, Rachel would have been more than willing to let herself fall under his spell. As it was though, Rachel knew better. Or at least that’s what she told herself while she was filling out his notes. Her mind was completely set on telling Puck that it was simply impossible and the roster was simply on a first-come-first-served basis. But then she looked up to see Puck sitting there, hands in his lap as if he was actually trying to hide what had been clear while she had been working on him. That in itself was endearing enough to make Rachel pause. He might have a sweet talking mouth, but he was gentlemanly enough not to make his erection too obvious just in case it made her feel uncomfortable. It was clear what Puck would be doing after he left their session, but well, she wasn’t really supposed to think about that, was she? Rachel blushed again as her eyes moved up from where his hands sat to his face, almost positive she had gotten caught staring.] I’m not really supposed to, but I’ll see what I can do. No promises though, [she replied with a quiet laugh - no, it most certainly was not a giggle.] And you be careful out there, Puck. Please don’t work yourself too hard. I don’t want to see you getting injured. Or well, more injured than you are now. [It was the truth, of course. Rachel didn’t want Puck getting hurt, but it was also a double edged sword because if he didn’t get injured, then he would have as much reason to see her. Rachel was just selfish enough to hope they would see each other on a regular basis. Just with nothing life-threatening or career ending. That would be horrible.] Good luck with the game tonight! I’m expecting a glorious victory after all my hard work.   

[It was a natural charm, and Puck knew that he had a way with the ladies that a lot of dudes envied. Even if he tried to keep his trysts quiet (the like, two times he did), the guys would take advantage of his quiet and goad said conquests from his road roommate. Fucking Finn would sell him out so fast that Puck questioned why they were friends in the first place, but whatever. Hudson was a good guy, at the core. What was he even thinking about? Oh yeah. Rachel. And the way she looked trying to stay professional and pen in all his info onto her little clipboard. Puck had no doubt that he would be seeing her for his next session; shit just seemed to work out when he wanted it too. Didn’t Oprah call that “The Secret?” Regardless, Puck just called it like, sheer force of will and the ability to have people do what he wanted, when he wanted them to. He left his mark on Rachel - not in that gross way, you sick fuck. Maybe impression was a better word. He left an impression, and he could see on her face that she wanted to see him again almost as much as he wanted to see her. There was no question - now that she was part of the team - that she would become Puck’s full time therapist. Athletes of his caliber needed regular massage, regular appointments to keep themselves in the shape they needed to be for their sport; it wasn’t just about injuries, and Puck wasn’t going to lie, he’d like to see Rachel in better circumstances. Not that he didn’t like her beating on his leg or whatever, because it felt awesome to finally work out that kink, but meeting for a different reason wouldn’t suck either.] I’m sure I’ll be seeing you on the regular, babe, [Puck shrugged. He flexed the muscles in his leg a few times, confirming to himself that there was enough strength left after the intense workout he was just subjected to, to slide down off the table and have it support his weight. Puck stood next to Rachel and grinned as she continued to try and busy herself, and chuckled as he walked by and she wished him good luck.] Thanks, Rachel, [he winked] I’ll dedicate my first goal to you tonight. You better be watching.

[fatedrachel]

v. two - attraction

[fatedpuck]

fatedrachel:

[Rachel was keenly aware that this kind of situation, where a patient was likely to get an erection from her ministrations, was pretty common. However, Rachel was also keenly aware that this - right here - felt like scene straight out of a pornographic film. And thinking about Puck while also having scenes of such a film flashing through her mind was not good. It was the epitome of bad work ethic. Rachel had to will herself not make a sound as Puck continued to groan at her touch, her teeth biting into her bottom lip with determination. She could do her job professionally, she was certain - well perhaps less certain than she had been just an hour ago - but still. This was her only first day. And workplace relationships were a bad idea even when they hadn’t been expressly forbidden by her boss. She would get used to Puck and his charms. It would just take… time. God! Rachel was focusing so intently on not acting on her attraction that she probably pressed down a little harder than she should have and Puck’s reaction was immediate.] Oh gosh! Sorry… [she began to apologize, but Puck continued talking  - and complimenting her - so she didn’t push it any further.] Perhaps we should finish up for today. [she continued brightly checking over her work while he lay back. Rachel did her best not to let his praise go to her head, or well, a little further south either.] You’re muscles are significantly less tense now, and hopefully it won’t give you any further trouble at tonight’s game. I do, however, think it best that you visit the physio team again after your match, just to follow up. I’ll make a note in your folder about your treatment today, so whoever works on you next will know where I’ve, um, focused during this session.  

[Puck came into this session with a genuine need for therapy. He hurt himself - not badly, but he was still hurt - and needed to work out some of the tension in his muscles in order to play his best tonight. His whole modus operandi changed when he saw Rachel. And look, he wasn’t enough of an ass to try and like, make her feel uncomfortable or like he was leeching on her or something, but she was cute as fuck, and he knew that she was attracted to him from the second he walked in and she eyed him like a piece of meat. He wanted to like, get a rise out of her or something, to make her feel like their attraction was mutual. If a few compliments and a poorly time erection were the way to do that then whatever. Natural bodily functions and all that. Besides, it made Rachel blush, and that shit was so hot that he wouldn’t even need to try and picture her naked to rub one out when he left the therapy room. Puck was sure that if he touched himself at all that he would have no problem, uh, finishing up. Puck sat up when Rachel unilaterally decided that they were done for the day and grinned, hand in his lap. He was enough of a dick to make it clear that she was the cause of this whole situation, but he didn’t want her to be genuinely uncomfortable.] This I could request you take care of me next time? [he asked.] Seeing as how you’re like, familiar with the injury and treatment to date. Not a big deal if it’s not possible, but you were so good today, babe. I kinda wanna come back for a repeat. 

[fatedrachel]

v. two - attraction

[fatedpuck]

fatedrachel:

[Under ordinary circumstances, Rachel had trained herself to become immune to the innuendo and flirtation that seemed to come along with a job such as this. She wasn’t an idiot. She knew that being a rather attractive girl - Yes, Rachel knew she was attractive. She wasn’t going to pretend otherwise - in a profession dedicated to taking care of mostly male athletes, there was always going to be a chance that the men would hit on her. What Rachel didn’t expect, however, was to feel so instantly attracted to one. Even now as she worked on Puck’s leg, Rachel tried to remind herself that she wasn’t typically so superficial. She was the type of person who valued the mind over physical attributes. And yet… Rachel nodded as she moved backwards, bring the leg along with her, watching as the muscle flexed under her touch.] Yes, I see where your muscle is troubling you. [she responded, focusing her gaze on the leg, afraid if she met his gaze that Puck would instantly see through her facade. Or rather, that she would see the knowledge of her attraction reflected purely back in his eyes.] Your Vastus Medialis and Satorious muscles are particular tight. [Her hand indicated the muscles on Puck’s inner thigh, ignoring anything else she shouldn’t be noticing. Releasing the leg complete, Rachel moved away to administer some cold cream to her hands.] I’m going to massage those muscles to try to relieve the tension. Just to inform you, this cream is going to feel cool to the touch. [It was standard practice, and Puck probably knew this very well, but Rachel fell back on her training routine as she tried remain professional. The fact that she had to work in an area so close to Puck’s groin was embarrassing enough without seeming like she was incompetent at her job.] 

[This wasn’t the first woody Puck ever had in therapy. Most guys ended up like this when their body was being fucked around by another person. Most of the time it was about like, agitation rather than attraction, though. Rachel was genuinely the hottest therapist he’d ever had, and her hands were definitely a contributing factor to his situation today. He wasn’t going to be the only player that ended up in this position with her on staff, but he hoped that he was the only one that got her to break out of her professional straightjacket.] Feels good, baby, keep doing that, [Puck groaned. He did his best to wink at her before his eyes fluttered shut. Shit, she was awesome. Definitely more than just a pretty face. The cold cream made Puck shiver and his free leg flexed as Rachel continued. Puck had shouldered much more serious injuries in the past - hell, only 6 of his teeth were actually his - but the burning in his thigh was enough to make him wince in pain as Rachel worked it out. Her thumb pressed on a particularly tender area and Puck jerked his leg away.] Okay, wait. Cool it for just a minute, [he requested. Puck rolled onto his back and closed his eyes to collect himself.] You’re damn good at this. Didn’t expect so much strength to come out of such a tight little package, [he chuckled.] Definitely chose the right line of work, Rachel. Damn.

[fatedrachel]

v. two - attraction

[fatedpuck]

fatedrachel:

[It wasn’t hard to understand that Puck was quite used to hitting on women. He was a well-respected and adored hockey player, who was probably used to flashing that smile of his and having women fall at his feet. Rachel would never admit that if she were less of a professional, she could very well be one of them. To be honest, Rachel hadn’t worked out a routine yet. Puck was her first real patient, and she supposed as her experience evolved, so would get treatment style.] Yes… well, I hope you don’t mind if today is a little different,[she started to reply slowly, turning back to face him.] But I just wanted to stretch the muscle out first before administering treatment. Now if you lay on your back… and lift your leg, bending at the knee. [Rachel reached out and guided Puck’s movements, pushing the top of his thigh as close to his chest as possible, and watching the strained area closely - and definitely not noticing how taut and defined his legs were. Rachel was typically an ‘arms’ girl, but, well… the male lower region could be very attractive too.] If you feel any pain, please don’t hesitate to speak out. [she instructed as casually as possible, more than glad he couldn’t read her thoughts.]

[Rachel’s entire body probably weighed less than the leg that she was pressing back on, and Puck couldn’t say he hated that shit. She smelled good, and her hands were smooth on his skin and it was like… comforting or something. Whatever. Puck’s coherency kind of flew out the window when blood rushed to his dick. Still, he wasn’t ashamed of the fact that he was turned on from the wandering hands on his body, and Rachel totally knew it, too. If she wasn’t going to mention anything, he would just focus on the blush colouring her cheeks instead. Puck hissed slightly when Rachel pushed on his leg even harder - shit hurt, that was why he was here in the first place - but he wasn’t going to ask her to let up. Puck knew about the whole “gotta hurt before it starts to feel better” bullshit, and he knew his own limits. This was nowhere near enough pain to actually make him call things off. In a couple hours when he was back out on the ice, Puck could stretch out whatever Rachel did to him tonight, and be fine for tomorrow’s game.] Nah, I’m good, babe, [Puck said after a breath or two to steel himself.] You just do what you gotta do and I’ll deal with it later.

[fatedrachel]

v. two - attraction

[fatedpuck]

fatedrachel:

[As hard as Rachel was trying to remain professional, she wasn’t doing a very good job. She hated that she was turning into the uncontrollable, blushing teenager just because her client was flirting with her. She really should know better. She did know better. Rachel nodded, reading her notes again, and making a few additions just to keep her hands busy.] Sounds like a good plan. You almost don’t even really need my services, [she teased back. Despite herself, Rachel matched Puck’s grin with a bright smile of her own.] Now if you’d resume your position, Mr. Puckerman, we can get started. [Rachel turned away to place Puck’s file on the counter, taking this moment to collect herself. She would be professional. Her job depended on it. Rachel was simply going to have to get used to handsome, strong and well-built men flirting with her from time to time.]

[Puck grinned to himself and adjusted his position on the table. Laying down on his stomach wasn’t like, the most comfortable position when he was half hard and expecting a hot girl to spend a solid fifteen minutes with her hands all over him. This was probably why the team hired dudes or like, haggard middle aged women for this; no chance of a happy ending. Maybe she was related to an owner or something, because Rachel didn’t look like she’d graduated college more than like, 4 months ago max.] Most of the time I just say on my stomach and the therapist takes care of the rest, [Puck explained. He didn’t know what kind “position” Rachel wanted him in, but if it was something else, he was going to make her tell him.] You gotta tell me how you want me, babe. I’m all yours.

[fatedrachel]

v. two - attraction

[fatedpuck]

fatedrachel:

[Standing before this hunky specimen of a man, Rachel clutched the edges of his folder a little tighter than necessary - taking a little longer than necessary to read over his therapeutic history. It felt almost like a child who had been specifically told not to stare into the sun, but the rebellious side of her couldn’t help but take a peek. This was not good. She was and professional had to behave as such, regardless of how attractive her patient was - because that’s what he was, a patient. Trying not to focus on the way the blue and green flecks of light glinted in those deep hazel eyes, Rachel did her very best to act accordingly.] Ah, yes, [she replied, but her nervous tone pretty much put a kahbosh on that.] I see here it’s been quite a few months since your first complaint. Has there been any improvement since then? [The more she spoke, the more even her tone became, but that didn’t stop Rachel from returning his smile, her teeth tugging at her bottom lip subconsciously. Taking a step forward and manoeuvring around his splayed body to get a better look. Her hand tentatively reached out to inspect the troubled area, and try as she might, the blush that tinged her cheeks as she tried not to take notice of just how close her hand was to his butt completely betrayed her.] It is specified in your file, but if you could describe in your own words what led to this particular injury, it may better assist in my treatment.

[Puck turned onto his stomach when Rachel reached out to touch him. The shake in her voice was clear as day and Puck grinned to himself as she tried to compose herself to stay professional. She was going to be fun. Puck hadn’t actually slept with any of the support staff or whatever, but there was a first time for everything. Until now, none of them had ever been this hot, and he was mostly satisfied with the throngs of groupies that flocked to he and the rest of the guys after games. Guaranteed pussy, home or away. Still, there was something to be said about the thrill of the chase, and he was more than happy to engage.] I was fine until yesterday when I got in a fight with that douche from Vancouver and irritated it again. [Weren’t the trainers like, required to watch the game? She knew what happened, and what the fuck did she need him to “describe in his own words” for? This wasn’t English class, it was a strained muscle.] It’s just an aggravated hammy, Rach, [Puck grinned.] Just work out the knot for me and I’ll be good until my regular session tomorrow afternoon. Nothing too complex. Just work those hands over my leg and I’ll be singing your praises, babe.

[fatedrachel]

v. two - attraction

[fatedrachel]

[It was extremely hard to remain unfazed as her gaze moved to meet the player’s face rather than his chest and Rachel registered a brief moment of recognition before her attention was being drawn away to her new employer. She didn’t have a chance to give more than a cursory smile before she did as she was told and continued on into the coach’s office. Coach Laviolette was an intimidating man. The stern look he cast out the door following the player was one to be feared, but when he turned his gaze to her, Rachel saw it soften. She was welcomed and told where to go to help with the cool down, and just as she was heading out the door, he threw in a caution. “We have a strict no fratenizing policy here, Miss Berry. I have no doubt that you will be the utmost professional, but some of my boys would easily forget the rules in the presence of a pretty girl.” Judging by the player earlier and just how good looking he was, Rachel was sure that was true. Still, she assured him - and herself - that he was correct to believe in her professionalism. It was a strong belief she carried out of the office and down the hall to the treatment rooms. It was only when she noticed that same player from earlier waiting as her first appointment that Rachel felt her determination waver, even if only slightly.] Mister…Puck? [she asked, looking at her booking sheet.] I’m Rachel Berry. What seems to be troubling you today?

[fatedpuck]

[Okay, so, maybe the aftermath from the fight was all just a karmic exercise that brought Puck to his moment. Karma was still a thing, right? Whatever. It wasn’t really important anyway - not when he had the very same tight little package of a woman about to have her tiny hands all over his body. Puck was sure that she would be added into the therapy rotation - you know, because of the polo - but he thought it might be a couple days before he was actually laid out and ready for her. Honestly, the better option would be to have her laid out for him but that might have to wait until next week.] Just call me Puck. No mister or anything, [he shrugged. Puck unceremoniously lowered himself onto the massage table and let his arms hang loosely at his side as he waited for her to come closer. She was probably waiting for him to speak up about what was wrong, but he could see her flipping through his file which meant that she knew all about his leg already, even if she hadn’t watched the game.] Hamstring, [he grunted, adjusting his position on the table so he could roll onto his side and make eye contact with this therapist.] Think you’re gonna be able to help me Rachel? This shit hurts pretty bad, [Puck smirked. Fuck, he hoped she was single. This flirting was basically harmless - really, could you even call it flirting yet? - but her reaction would be the go-ahead. None of the other team therapists were young, hot women (probably for a reason), and Puck would be damned if he let her get away.]

[fatedrachel]

v. two - attraction

[Growing up Rachel had never dreamed she’d be walking through a male locker room, head held high and seemingly unfazed by the very large, very intimidating young men in various states of undress around her. Her dreams were Broadway, and while Nashville was a far cry from the bright lights of New York City, this famous country music hub was still filled with possibility. However, possibilities also came with harsh realities, and though her desire was still to become a famous musician some day, the need to feed and clothe herself her led her here. Squaring her shoulders, Rachel walked calmly towards the coach’s office at the other side of locker room, ready for her first day on the job. She knocked tentatively, trying to peer through the shuttered blinds on the office door. When bade to enter, Rachel opened her mouth the greet the coach but found herself almost walking face first into a broad semi-naked chest. From a quick cursory glance, Rachel recognized that the man in front of her was not Coach Laviolette, but one of the players - a rather handsome player - and she forced herself not to react like she would have once upon a time.] Oh, pardon me, [she gasped politely, resisting the urge to shield her eyes as she skirted to the side to let the player pass.] 

[fatedpuck]

[Playing hockey was probably like, the best possible way that Puck could make a living. He used to play for fun, and then realized he was good enough to turn that shit into a job and the rest was history, really. Nashville wasn’t his first choice team, but after being traded to the south, he wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. The whole vibe of the city was exactly his speed, and people were just like, nice. Being called into Coach’s office to get his ass handed to him for a dirty check in the last game? Not so nice. And honestly, that dickhead from Vancouver deserved it. Puck practically tripped over himself and barely took a swing at the guy’s jaw before the whistle blew and he was carted off to the penalty box. Puck got hurt too, okay? His hammy was killing him, especially after the practice from hell this morning and no one seemed to give a fuck about that. Still, he stood and listened to a lecture and apologized, confirming he wouldn’t lose his temper again. Coach looked like he was about to launch into another spiel when a knock rang through the office. Everyone knew that Puck was in for his “appointment” and wouldn’t have interrupted to avoid like, residual lecture. Whatever. Coach nodded toward Puck and dismissed him, and the little - seriously little - thing that pressed herself against Puck’s chest was a real nice way to end this shitty day. She was wearing the same polo shirt as the rest of the therapists, and all of a sudden, his hammy injury felt like a blessing.] Nah, babe. It’s my bad. You head on in.

[fatedpuck]

v. one - heartbeat.

[fatedrachel]

[Most people didn’t really understand Rachel and Noah as a couple, especially those that knew the pair during their years together in high school. Their interests and hobbies almost seemed as opposite as night and day. With the exception of glee club in junior and senior year, there was really no reason for them to interact with each other - in fact Rachel had preferred it that way. It was amazing to see how far they had come. From barely tolerable acquaintances to having a child and discussing wedding anniversaries. Truly amazing.] Getting a little ahead of yourself there, aren’t you, Noah? [Rachel teased, flashing a knowing smile his way as her attention divided between her cocky husband and their rambunctious son.] My birthday has barely begun and you’re already negotiating your own. [Rachel scooped Aaron up once again so she could lean into Noah again, letting her body naturally fit against his.] I do like the sound of second part though. I deserve a lot. And as you know I have very high expectations.

[fatedpuck]

[It wasn’t often that Puck and Rachel had any quiet time together. Their demanding hours and a baby kind of interfered, you know? And it wasn’t even about the sex. Rachel had a fucking awesome sense of humour, and Puck just liked laying and laughing with her and stuff. He leaned in to kiss the crown of Rachel’s head and winked, then offered a nonchalant] we’ll talk about it later. [Aaron was still wrapped up ion Rachel’s arms, but the tell-tale sound and smell of, uh, baby bodily functions couldn’t be missed. Puck let out a breath and shook his head, then sat up and took his son out of Rachel’s arms a split second later.] I swear one day, his breakfast is going to stay in longer than like, ten minutes. [Puck tucked Aaron into his side and leaned down to kiss Rachel properly, then slipped out the bedroom door to deal with cleaning up the baby.] Finish your breakfast and shower or whatever, and Daddy and Aaron will get ready for that walk you promised. Sound good, buddy? Give Mommy a day off from diaper duty.

[fatedpuck]

v. one - heartbeat.

[fatedrachel]

[There was no point for Rachel to deny that her husband was very much a ‘manly man’. All throughout high school, Noah had proclaimed as much, proudly and strongly for all to hear. Still, the 'manliest’ thing about Noah was that he loved his family with all his heart. Despite his words, Rachel knew that should Aaron choose to follow her path on Broadway, Noah would be at everyone of his son’s performances, front row, centre, cheering the loudest.] We’ll see about that, [Rachel teased back. She turned Aaron’s body to face Noah’s, playfully continuing to speak for him.] Won’t we Aaron? Tell daddy you want to sing like Neil Diamond one day. [At that, Rachel shot Noah a devilish grin knowing full well the 'badass jew’ had a soft spot for the sweet crooning musician. Aaron merely gurgled at Noah, even as she stole a bite of her food. A small shiver of anticipation ran down Rachel’s spine at her husband’s suggestion. Rachel would NEVER admit it, not to anyone, but ever since that first time - well, technically second - when Noah had tried especially hard to distract her from her Barbra, and had succeeded, Rachel secretly got a thrill from watching him try. The man was inventive to say the least, and though she always tried to hold out as long as possible, it was getting progressively harder as time went by.] Just one? [Rachel asked pretending to pout.] As the birthday girl, that hardly seems fair. I mean, I think I deserve at least three. [She had no idea when the innuendo in her voice changed. Nor did she know how Noah had managed to associate something as pure as Streisand movies to, well… Something decidedly less pure. Rachel took another bite of her food to distract herself. She should not be thinking about sex right now, especially not with her newborn baby in her arms.] I guess it’s just another thing we’ll have to wait and see about.

[fatedpuck]

[There was this anecdote that said married people ended up abandoned sex all together after the wedding; something about already landing their partner so the effort just wasn’t worth it anymore. For Puck and Rachel, that shit couldn’t be further from the truth. Despite the fucked up hours that they worked, they had a really active sex life. Puck got shit for it from the guys at work, but he didn’t care. If their wives were as sexy as his they’d be jumping her, too. It was torture for the both of them after Rachel had Aaron and she had to recover or whatever. Yeah, they had a newborn baby to take care of and were operating on little to no sleep, but it would have been some good stress relief, you know? Not that Rachel was to blame or anything, because she certainly wasn’t, but the sex ban was probably the worst part about having their kid. Dirty diapers? No fucking problem. Puck was an old pro with all things baby. Or, you know. He tried to be, anyway. No parent was perfect and he would’t claim to be. Speaking of kid - Aaron managed to roll onto his stomach and wiggle himself right up between the pillows at the head of the bed and Puck rolled his eyes and tugged him back a bit.] Hey, dude. Just relax for a minute, okay? [Puck joked. Curious was an understatement, and he and Rachel were going to have their hands full as Aaron got older. Part Berry, part Puckerman, and a whole lot of trouble.] For my birthday, I might ask for a babysitter and a private hotel room, [Puck grinned.] Or, I guess, our anniversary’s first. Then I’ll really show you what you deserve, baby. [As much as Puck longed for serious time with his wife, it was still really hard for them to leave Aaron alone with anyone that wasn’t the two of them. Being in charge of a little person was really fucking stressful, and Puck never knew how much he could love a kid until he had one of his own. Nothing was going to happen to the baby on his watch.]

[fatedpuck]

v. one - heartbeat.

[fatedrachel]

[Once upon a time, Rachel would have said that her ultimate dream of dreams was to become a Broadway star - and in some ways, that still applied - but right in that moment, as she ate breakfast with her baby boy in her arms and her husband settled beside her, Rachel found herself feeling more content than when she stood centre stage listening to a standing ovation just for her.] Of course, [she replied, shooting a cheeky grin in Noah’s direction.] We’ve got to start this young man’s musical education. Don’t we, baby? [Rachel directed the question towards Aaron who merely released a bubble of saliva from his mouth, his gaze switching between both his parents.] See, Aaron agrees. He’s going to be a brilliant performer one day. Like Fred Astaire or Frank Sinatra. [Rachel was completely teasing, of course. As much as Noah loved her, he had yet to truly enjoy a Barbra movie. He usually only sat through watching them on her birthdays, and Rachel liked teasing him, seeing just how many she could get through before he attempted to distract her from her beloved idol.] We can start with Funny Girl, because obviously, Fanny Brice is spirit animal, followed by Hello, Dolly and The Way We Were. [Rachel paused for a deep breath, before taking another bite of her omelette and grinning at Noah. She waited to see his reaction, and wondered if he would take the bait or finally, finally, reach his Barbra breaking point.]

[fatedpuck]

[Look. Puck loved his wife in spite of all the bullshit things she did. It was his job as her husband, and she did the same for him. Seriously. Puck fucked up on the regular, and he knew it. Times like this - special occasions, birthdays, whatever - was when he got to make it up to her. He didn’t particularly like Barbra Streisand, but he came into this marriage knowing that she and Rachel were kind of a package deal. No one talked to Rachel Berry for more than three minutes without being subjected to at least a handful of Barbra references, most of them unconscious.] Our boy is not gonna be a Barbra fangirl, babe. I refuse, [Puck teased. In reality they both knew that if Aaron wanted to follow in his mother’s footsteps and sing and dance and do all that shit on the stage, to idolize the “greats” from years gone by, neither parent was going to stop them. Back in high school Puck learned how important it was to like, be yourself and life your most authentic life or whatever. That was probably part of, if not the entire reason why Rachel agreed to go out with him in the first place. Good shit, right there. Puck leaned over and guided Rachel’s wrist toward his mouth when she forked another bite of her breakfast, then chased it with a kiss.] How about I let you pick one and see how far into it we get before I can distract you? [Rachel was pretty solid when it came to anything having to do with Streisand - Puck remembered Rachel shooting daggers his direction the first time they watched Funny Girl together and he tried to get a bit of under the skirt action. Totally terrifying. Now, he was convinced she liked it just as much as he did.]

[fatedpuck]

v. one - heartbeat.

[fatedrachel]

[As Noah instructed Aaron to wish her happy birthday, Rachel couldn’t help but give her son one of those stupid, dopey grins, praising him even though the words were no where even close to being said yet.] Thank you, baby, [she replied to Aaron in a sing song voice. After, she gladly leaned into Noah’s kiss and thanked him properly as well.] Nonsense, it smells delicious and I have an excellent nose for these kinds of things. [As if to prove a point, Rachel manoeuvred Aaron until he was safely tucked in one arm so she was free to reach the fork and take a bite of her omelette. She hummed and grinned, perhaps only a little over dramatically before taking another quick bite. Of course, Rachel was generally happy with anything Noah did for her, he had always been a very caring and attentive husband - though for some reason he liked to pretend he wasn’t - and Rachel adored him for that. It was just one of many reasons.] Sounds wonderful, [Rachel replied still deliriously happy to be celebrating her birthday with her two favourite men. She took another bite before returning her attention back to Aaron who was lightly smacking her on the cheek.] Doesn’t it, little man? Your daddy thinks of everything doesn’t he? [Rachel pressed her nose against Aaron’s cheek, shaking her head from side to side because for whatever reason it always made the boy laugh.]

[fatedpuck]

[When they first got together, Puck was convinced that Rachel was a woman that needed a huge-ass party for her birthday with caterers and lavish presents and a bunch of sit that no one really cared about or even remembered, but that wasn’t the case at all. Yeah, she liked gifts (and the like, six things he picked out for her for this birthday were all proof enough of that), but Puck knew his wife was being honest when she said she just wanted to spend time with her family, that she didn’t need him to break his neck trying to plan some stupid fancy party that both he and their son would fucking hate. Puck would totally make the day one to remember, anyway. There was no doubt that his talents were physical - kind of how they ended up with a kid without even trying to get pregnant. He was just good. They were good together. They could be amazing together later when he gave Rachel her seventh birthday present.] Daddy tries, [Puck sighed. He was still dressed in sweats and a worn t-shirt, and settled back into his side of the bed as Rachel leisurely began her breakfast.] Cooking like that tells a hell of a long time, [he laughed. They ate take-out like, all the time - mostly because they didn’t have the time or patience to cook huge meals - but home-cooked shit was actually really fulfilling. Rewarding or something. Whatever.] Do you got anything special you wanna do today? Gonna make me sit through Barbra or something?

[fatedpuck]

v. one - heartbeat.

[fatedrachel]

[Waking up to a kiss from her favourite little man in the world had to the best alarm clock in history. A large, content smile stretched across Rachel Puckerman’s face as her eyes slowly blinked open, still bleary from sleep. Instantly, they fell upon a pair of eyes and a button nose that were identical to her favourite ‘big’ man in the world - nothing dirty intended. The bright smile that greeted her, however, was a mirror image of her own.] Good mor- [she began to say sleepily, just as a tiny hand came smacking down against her lips, causing a burst of happy laughter to escape from both child and parent. Rachel let out a playful ‘omph’ as she began to sit up, her arms automatically moving to hold her son. Settled just behind Aaron’s face was Noah - perfect, wonderful Noah - with a plate of breakfast that smelt delicious.] Good morning, [she said again, smiling at her husband as she held Aaron to her chest and leaned over to peck Noah on the lips.] What’s all this? [she asked, pretending she didn’t know exactly what the fuss was about. Noah always treated her like a princess, after all, especially when it came to her birthday. Despite it being so close to Christmas - which they celebrated anyway despite being Jewish - and just after Hanukkah, every December 18, Noah always woke her with something special. This year was no different, except that this year just happened to be their handsome baby boy… and breakfast. The perfect combination.]

[fatedpuck]

[Puck was a pretty awesome dad, but there were only so many “tricks” he could teach his eight-month old son before he lost interest. Last week Puck spent an hour trying to teach Aaron the melody of Happy Birthday through humming, but apparently rubber ducks and those stupid Baby Einstein cartoons were a hell of a lot more interest. Whatever. The kid knew “kiss” and had no problem tossing a couple at his mom upon request.] What do you say, Aaron? Can you tell mommy happy birthday? [Spit bubbles and another slap to the mouth had Puck reach across to pull the baby away just a little bit before he leaned in to kiss Rachel himself.] Happy birthday, baby, [he mumbled.] I tried to make you some breakfast, but fair warning that if it sucks, it was all him, [Puck teased, pointing his finger at Aaron. Puck was constantly surprised about how much personality could actually be jammed into a kid as young as theirs. He had a total attitude issue like, ninety percent of the time - that was probably both the Berry Diva and Puckerman Badass coming out there. Whatever. The kid was cute as fuck - which was no surprise, really - and he’d be able to coast by on his good looks no problem. It worked for Daddy.] All three of us have the whole day off today, so we got nothing to do except sit around and relax. Maybe go for a walk or something later. [Puck already ordered in dinner because he knew there was no chance in hell Rachel would want to go out without Aaron, and he was counting down until the baby’s 7 o’clock bedtime, despite it being just after 9 in the morning.]

[fatedpuck]

v. one - heartbeat.

[Puck was so golden - totally clenching Husband of the Year this year. By some goddamn perfect stroke of luck, Rachel’s birthday fell on a Monday this year - her first as a mother - which meant that she had the entire day to do whatever the fuck she wanted. Puck turned off her alarm before they turned in last night, and made sure that he had everything they needed for a solid breakfast in bed. Some vegan egg thing that she loved. Puck still wasn’t sure how vegan eggs were actually a thing, but whatever. He made the food, their kid slept in a little bit longer than usual (or, you know, Puck made a point to leave him in the crib for an extra half hour or so). Regardless, with the baby on one hip and a tray full of breakfast in the other, Puck slipped into the bedroom and set Rachel’s food on the vanity and just watched his wife sleep for a second. Creepy, probably, but whatever. She looked amazing. Now for the wake up call. Puck set the baby down on the bed, then, just like he knew he would, Aaron crawled up to Rachel’s face and planted one right on her cheek - total mama’s boy that kid.] Do it again, buddy. Gotta wake up Mommy.