Fic Rec Blog

Here to reblog all the fics I’ve read and love! 18+ Only Please! Blank blogs with no age or age range will be blocked. Follow my main @imjess-themess

[blue-aconite]

fields of dandelions || prologue

Summary: Jake's life falls apart in less than an hour and he's left trying his best to pick up the pieces.

Warnings: Swearing, cheating

Word Count: 1.6k

Pairings: Jake Seresin x OC

Authors Note: And we're back with a new series! This has been sitting in my drafts forever and I finally found the motivation to finish off the prologue. I just think the world needs more single dad!Jake, don't y'all agree?

Thank you to my betas @a-reader-and-a-writer & @green-socks and for letting me ramble on about this!

Jake spent a good twenty minutes staring at his own house through the windscreen. He remembered when he and Sarah first bought it. A lot had happened since. And now it looked like it was all coming to an end. 

Sarah was on the phone as he entered the kitchen, talking quietly as she flipped through a magazine. He shoved his hand into the pockets of his jeans, leaning against the doorframe and waiting for her to notice him. When she didn’t acknowledge his presence, he cleared his throat.

“Sarah.”

She looked up, eyes widening as she saw him. “Jake. I didn’t realise you were going to be home yet.” She ended the call without saying goodbye and Jake noticed how she chose to put the phone with the screen down. 

He gave her a tight smile before sitting down across from her. “Half day. They’re running drills with the kids so Mav sent us home.”

“That’s nice. Did you pick up the boys?”

Jake shook his head. “Javy picked them up. They’re trying out his new pool.” The boys had been on their case since they found out their uncle Coyote was installing a pool in his backyard. 

She hummed but offered no other answer. An uncomfortable silence filled the space, neither of them speaking. Sarah shifted in her seat, eyes darting back and forth between him and her phone. 

Jake felt his stomach turn but decided to jump the gun. “I think we need to talk.”

He had expected some sort of fight, some sort of protest, so when Sarah only sighed and twisted her face in what resembled a smile, it was like a punch to the gut. 

“How did you find out?” she asked, completely unbothered as she inspected her nails. She didn’t bother denying it, even though Jake hadn’t asked about it directly. But it was enough to confirm what Jake already knew but hoped he was wrong about. 

Jake dragged a hand through his hair, baffled at her lack of reaction. “How did I find out? Is that all you have to say?” 

“What do you want me to say?” Sarah shook her head, manicured nails tapping the table. Jake dragged a hand down his face. 

“I want you to say that you didn’t fuck him. That you didn’t invite him into our house while our boys were home. I mean, what the fuck?!” 

If his words affected her, Sarah didn’t show it. She twisted her wedding band round and round, her silence telling him everything Jake needed to know. 

“If you’ve been unhappy -”

“It’s not about that. It’s complicated, Jake.” Sarah sighed. 

Jake scoffed, clearing his throat. “Uncomplicate it for me then. Tell me why I had to find out from our son that you’ve been inviting another man into my house. How many times, huh?”

“How many times what?” she countered, staring at him. Jake could barely recognise his own wife. She didn’t seem to care that their five-year-old had seen her with another man. 

“You know what I’m asking, don’t play dumb. How many times did you bring him here?” Jake pushed away from the table, unable to sit still anymore. Sarah’s disinterest only served to make him more agitated. 

As if his question finally affected her, Sarah looked up at him but her face showed nothing. “Just one time. And the kids were supposed to be asleep.”

“How long?” It hurt to ask but he needed to know. How long had she been cheating on him? He could piece it together, track back to when she started to become distant but he wanted her to admit it. As if it would feel better. 

Sarah pressed her lips together, hands clasped on top of the table. “Couple of months. I don’t know.”

He laughed at the absurdity of the situation. Of all the possible scenarios he had of the future when he asked Sarah to marry him after high school, this one had never crossed his mind. How had they ended up here?

“Why? Tell me why.”

She shrugged her shoulders. “I don’t know.” 

Shaking his head, Jake gripped the back of the chair he vacated earlier. “Stop saying that. Tell me the truth. If the last 18 years have meant anything to you, you’ll be honest with me,” he paused, drawing a shaky breath. “You owe me that much.”

“I don’t know what to say, Jake! It’s done, okay? I can’t pinpoint the exact fucking moment, alright? One moment everything was alright and then it wasn’t. And he was there for me. Stop questioning me, this isn’t an interrogation.” Sarah spat, anger seeping into her voice.

“No. You don’t get to be angry. You’re the one that fucked up. You do not get to tell me I don’t get to ask questions.” Jake spat back, his own anger surfacing. She had no right to play the victim. 

Sarah rolled her eyes, a humourless laugh leaving her. “Alright, fine. Do you want the truth? I’m so fucking tired of this life. I’m tired of staying home all the fucking time whenever you get deployed, putting my own career on hold for you. I’m tired of it all. I’m tired of you. For once, I want to do something for me, have something for myself.” 

“And to achieve that you decided that cheating on me was the best course of action? Why haven’t you talked to me about this?” Jake demands all the anger and hurt clashing together. 

Sarah shakes her head. “Like talking would do any good.”

He thought it would hurt more, to hear that his own wife was tired of him but all he could feel was a numbness spreading through his body. 

The woman sitting in front of him wasn’t his wife, wasn’t the mother of his children. She sounded cold, detached, almost like Jake felt. 

Jake scoffed. “Well, you could have said something, instead of fucking someone else. We could have tried couples therapy -” 

“It wouldn’t have made a difference. And now it doesn’t matter. What’s done is done.” Sarah interrupted. 

He stared at her, trying hard to remember the girl he once had fallen in love with. But she was nowhere to be found. Instead he saw someone he didn’t even recognised anymore. Sarah stared back, neither of them breaking eye contact. He knew it was the end. She knew it too. 

“Are you leaving?” 

Sarah lowered her gaze back to her hands. “Yes.”

“What about the boys?”

Sarah didn’t say anything. She stayed quiet, once again twisting her wedding band round and round. Jake sat down again, exhaustion seeping into his bones. “Sarah. What about the boys?”

“What about them?” She kept her eyes on her hands, refusing to meet his eye. 

Jake threw his hands up in frustration. “What do we tell them?”

Sarah pulls the wedding band off along with the engagement ring he’d given her all those years ago. He could do nothing but watch as she ended twelve years of marriage right in front of his eyes. Eighteen years together, right down the drain. 

She leaves them laying on the long abandoned magazine and Jake couldn’t make himself pick them up. He didn’t want to touch them. “We need to tell them.”

“They won’t understand,” Sarah argues. 

“So we shouldn’t say anything? They’re old enough to understand that something is wrong. We need to sit down together and talk to them,” he reasons but Sarah seems disinterested in continuing their conversation.

“No. You can tell them whatever you want. I’m not doing this,” Sarah snaps, blindsiding him. What the fuck is she saying?

When he asks her as much, Sarah simply shrugs her shoulders, that cold, hard exterior back in place. “I’m leaving. You can tell them whatever you see fit. It’s honestly not my problem.”

Jake explodes. “You’re not even going to say goodbye? How am I supposed to go pick up our children and explain to them why their mother isn’t home? How is that fair? To me? To them?!” He wants to grab her by the shoulders and shake some sense into her. 

The chair scrapes on the floor as Sarah stands and Jake follows suit, anger coursing through his veins. “You can’t just leave.”

Sarah simply levels him with a glare, challenging him to make another move. After a tense minute Sarah folds, shoulders slumping. “Fine. Pick up the boys and we’ll talk.”

“I swear to God, if you’re not here when I get back -”

“I’ll be here,” Sarah promises, sitting back down and flipping the magazine open again. The rings clatter onto the table and down onto the floor but neither of them makes an effort to get them.

As he pulls out of the driveway, Jake prays that she’ll still be there when they get back. He doesn’t believe her but at this point, he doesn’t have a choice. He chooses to believe that she wouldn’t abandon their sons. She might be tired of him, their marriage, but Jake knows Sarah loves Josh and Levi. She wouldn’t just leave. She couldn’t.

After exchanging a few words with Javy and making sure the boys are safely strapped in their seats, Jake rushes back home. He drives slower than he’d like to but with the boys in the car, he’s not willing to risk it. 

Dread fills him when he pulls into the driveway. The garage is open and Sarah’s convertible is gone. After bribing the boys with ice cream if they promise to stay in the car just a little while longer, Jake jogs up the porch, heart sinking in his chest. 

The house is eerily quiet when he steps inside and he berates himself for trusting Sarah to stay true to her word. Because all that is left of the woman he’s loved for eighteen years, the mother of his children, is a note on the fridge.

“Tell the boys I love them.”

Taglist: @wildbornsiren​ @ryebecca @imjess-themess @reels-and-wheels @antiquitea @writercole @hederasgarden @yanna-banana @bobfloydsbabe @hollandorks @anniesocsandgeneralstore @ereardon @luminousnotmatter @roosterscock @thedroneranger @fandomxpreferences @top-hhun @princessmisery666 @bradshawsbitch​ @a-reader-and-a-writer @green-socks @angstybluejay @seresinhangmanjake @ayorooster​@notroosterbradshaw​ @indynerdgirl @gigisimsonmars @girl-in-the-chairs-void@bradshawbabes @unhinged-btch @horseshoegirl @sadpetalsstuff @bradshawbaby @ahopelessromanticwritersworld @ummjustfics​ @septemberrie​ @somenamewithepineapple​ @seresinsweetie​​ @crescentwolf​ @seresinhangmanjake​ @waklman​ @roosterforme​ @rosiahills22​ @dempy​ @i0veless​ @ilovewriting06​ @kmc1989​ @demxters @amortentiadrops @teacupsandtopgun @hangmanscoming

[imjessthemess-rec]

I’d like to punch Sarah in the face, please! This was great!!

[hederasgarden]

💖 For made up fic title with any character you are inspired by: Catch a Fallen Star

Oooo this is giving me an idea for Sailor!Bob with Mermaid!reader. It is very much out of my wheelhouse.

Warnings for dark themes and mentions of drowning (not Bob). Thank you @wildbornsiren for looking this over!

Your sisters crowd around the unconscious man slumped over the wooden dinghy, chittering excitedly. The Navy uniform he wears is sodden and ripped. His skin is pale, his lips nearly blue from being in the cold water for so long.

He's the only survivor from the ship that broke apart on the rocky shores of the island last night. Well, there were others, but your sisters took care of them all too eagerly. If you say nothing, you know the man will meet the same watery fate. That thought fills you with dread.

He’s too beautiful to die.

Before another can take him you dart forward and bare your teeth. "He is mine," you hiss.

Your eldest sister smiles. "Go on, it's time," she encourages.

"Aww, her first," another adds with a laugh.

You don't linger to hear what the others say, pulling the man's limp body into the water and swimming away, grateful that the moonless sky hides your true destination. The man is heavier than he looks, and it takes more effort than you anticipate to drag him to the shallow waters.

Once there you carefully brush his wet hair from his face and remove his cracked glasses. You watch him for a long moment, transfixed until suddenly his long lashes flutter open to reveal eyes the color of seagrass. He blinks, looking lost and confused. Almost boyish.

Hesitantly, he reaches out to touch your cheek with trembling fingers. "Are you an angel?" He asks.

send me a made-up fic title and i'll tell you what i would write to go with it

[hederasgarden]

Sweet Surrender

Summary: Jake’s given and taken orders a hundred times throughout his career but nothing compares to the moment he realizes you liked it.  Pairing: Jake "Hangman" Seresin x F!Reader Word Count: 2.1K Rating: 18+ only. Sexual content. Authority and sir kink, praise kink and Hangman being a cocky asshole. A/N: Thank you @wildbornsiren and @whatblogisthis216 for beta'ing and @blue-aconite for the beautiful graphic. In the future I may write part 2 if my muses cooperate. Reblogs and comments feed the muse.

Masterlist ♡ Top Gun Masterlist

Jake doesn’t pay much attention when you’re first introduced with the rest of the eggheads from the Office of Naval Research. Another one of many civilian engineers working on the new plane he’s been assigned to test. You keep things professional and polite although he can tell you find him attractive. It’s written all over your face and demeanor. You’re not the only one, several of the other engineers can’t seem to string together a full sentence around him. 

You’re pretty, he can admit that much to himself, but a sweet face has never been enough on its own to hold his interest. Especially when he’s here to do a job, one he takes very seriously. The chance to be the first to fly the latest prototype jet isn’t an opportunity that comes up often. He volunteered immediately for the assignment when it came up, beating out most of his Top Gun class for the honor.

What he doesn’t bank on is having to sit through mind numbingly boring briefings and listen to the engineers argue anytime the tiniest adjustment is made. Most of his exposure to you is during these meetings but the first time you talk to him one on one is four weeks into the project.

That’s when he notices your particular….quirk. You’re following him out after the morning briefing, yammering away about the new wing design specs. He’s read your report in detail and already familiarized himself with the changes. 

All Jake wants is a moment of silence to mentally prepare himself for today's test but you keep talking. It doesn’t help that he’s got the beginning of a headache forming behind his eyes and you’re oblivious to his attempts to cut the conversation short.  

“I got it. I know how to fly a plane,” he tells you. 

“Lieutenant Seresin,” you start but he cuts you off with a look. 

“I’ve read your briefing packet, top to bottom. It was extremely thorough. If I have questions you’ll be the first person I ask. Scout’s honor,” he adds, giving you a sloppy half salute that seems to confuse you for a moment before you start talking again. 

“I just want to make sure-“ you begin and Jake sighs, annoyed.

“I got it.  Now go sit down,” he tells you curtly. 

You step back back, brows raised. Jake almost misses the way your pupils dilate and your lips part just so. 

"I'm sorry, Sir," you reply. "I..."You stammer and tug at the hem of your shirt before hurrying to take a seat. 

You watch him from behind the computer bank as he climbs into the cockpit and fiddles with the controls. He can feel you watching him as he puts his helmet on. It’s clear to him that you want his approval, even if you don’t realize it.

Fuck, that paired with the ‘sir’ and the delicious little waver in your voice spikes his interest. He waits until you’re practically squirming in your chair before he gives you a nod. Your response is immediate, shoulders dropping and the tense lines on your face easing. 

It’s not just that he makes you nervous, he’s seen that plenty of times before. No, this is different. Special. You liked it when he barked an order at you. 

–

Over the next few weeks, he watches you closely, taking note of your responses to everyone you interact with. It’s clear you crave praise from others, perking up under any compliment you receive and deflating under criticism. However, it’s your response to authority that interests him most. You’ve got a natural inclination to listen to orders but as far as Jake can tell he’s the only one who elicits that type of reaction from you.

Each encounter he has with you is a chance to test the theory he has. He catalogs the difference in your responses; when he’s softer in his requests versus an outright order. Jake sees how quickly you obey a demand to sit next to him at the next briefing, just so he can be close to you. The speed you produce a new report just for him is a powerful thing. He especially loves the way you blossom under his praise when he compliments changes you've made to improve performance.

You’re smart, undeterred when the men in the room try to speak over you. Even though you’re quiet-natured, you’re no pushover either.  He respects your determination and hard work.

The most telling moment is one afternoon when you’re loitering on the edge of the hanger as he finishes up his conversation with the flight chief. It’s clear you need to speak to him. The fact that you won’t interrupt him is just a bonus– something he knows from experience will translate well in the bedroom. 

“Come here,” he commands, crooking a finger at you. He doesn’t even have to raise his voice to have you scurrying to him. You touch your chest and fiddle with the locket you wear, twisting the thin gold chair around your index finger. Jake’s not sure if he’s just gotten better at clocking your reactions or you’re extra affected today but whatever the reason, he’s enjoying the show. 

“What do you need?” He asks. 

“For you to sign the report,” you tell him, opening the folder and pointing to the highlighted portion. 

When he takes the pen from you he makes sure to drag his fingertips over the back of your hand, watching for your reaction behind his aviators. The soft sound that passes your lips doesn't disappoint him. He thinks about what other sounds he could drag out of you. How he could get you desperate enough to beg him to fuck you. The way you’d sigh his name and -

“Sir?” Your soft voice snaps him out of his little daydream. You’re staring up at him expectantly. “I need my pen back, please.”

When he hands it back, you smile. It makes him long to pull you against him and kiss you breathless. To test out the limits of how well you’d listen to him but he knows he has to wait until the project is over. He’s not about to jeopardize either of your careers though as the weeks drag on he certainly finds himself fantasizing about that. 

You’ve caught him staring at during the morning briefings once or twice, his chin resting on steepled fingers. It’s always the same response from you, the double blink and glance away. Sometimes you’ll bite your lips and fiddle with the pencil, tapping it in rapid succession against the table. He can feel your eyes on him too and he has to repress a smirk. These morning briefings are starting to become his favorite part of the day. 

—

Two torturous months pass before the admiral visits and the project gets wrapped up. He has some innocent fun with you during that time, nothing overly mean, just enough to get you flustered and stoke the flame. His favorite form of foreplay.

The team celebrates at the Hard Deck. Alcohol flows freely and spirits are high. It turns out engineers partied harder than pilots. You only have a drink which bodes well for Jake. He needs you sober for this and wants a clear head of his own, nursing a single beer most of the night.

While he waits for an opportunity to get you alone he formulates how he wants to approach this. He doesn’t doubt his assessment. He’s rarely wrong about these things but it’s always possible you’re not completely aware of your quirk. If he embarrassed or frightened you all his waiting would be for nothing. 

After another hour or so he senses his chance. You head outside to take a quick call and Jake follows. He waits at a safe distance to give you some privacy but once you slide the phone back into your jacket he makes his presence known. 

“Lieutenant Seresin,” you greet. You look surprised to see him but pleased too. 

“It’s Jake,” he corrects, stepping toward you. 

When he presses into your space you take a half step back and then another, letting him herd you into a little alcove out of sight. You watch him curiously, maybe even a little confused. You’re not scared to be alone with him —you trust him.  

“What’s up?” You’re trying for casual but failing adorably. 

Jake’s close enough to touch you, but refrains from it. He won’t until he has your permission and understanding. He smirks and tits his head. A direct approach might be quicker but he’s curious if you’ll figure it out on your own.

 “I know your secret, sweetheart,” he whispers. 

That gets you going. You don’t seem to know where to put your hands. Nervous laughter comes next but Jake stays quiet, letting you squirm a little longer. 

“My secret?” You question. 

“It’s compatible with mine,” he hints. 

You frown, forehead wrinkling. He recognizes the expression from countless morning briefings when you were contemplating a problem. It’s cute watching your brain work in real-time to put the pieces together.  A full minute passes before your eyes dart back to his face, surprised.

He nods encouragingly and then very hesitantly you say, “Is that so, sir?”

There’s a heavy emphasis on the last word. 

“Smart girl,” he praises. 

You grin and rock back on your heels. “Well, I did design the aircraft you’ve been flying the last four months,” you shoot back. 

He can see the struggle it is for you not to smile. You’re proud of your work and should be but he can’t have you mouthing off already. 

“Don’t get smart with me,” he warns playfully, loving the way you immediately duck your head. 

“Sorry, sir.” 

You sound appropriately contrite and he smirks. 

“Look at me.” Two fingers under your chin encourage you to meet his gaze. “I want you to be honest,” he begins, watching carefully for any sign you’re not on the same page as him. “Do you want to do this?”

“Do you mean…you mean sex, right?” You ask, looking a little unsure. 

You’re so sweet that Jake slips character briefly to give you the soft smile you deserve. “Sex and more,” he confirms. “I can help you explore this side of yourself.”

“Yeah. I want that,” you tell him shyly. 

“That’s good to hear, but that’s not how you talk to me, and I think you know it.”

“I want you to teach me, sir,” you respond. 

“Better,” he praises.

He slides a hand up your jaw to grasp the back of your neck and angle your face upward so he can crush his lips against yours. He closes the distance between your bodies, pressing you back into the wall with a groan. You make a desperate little sound that goes right to his dick and grasp his biceps tightly. 

You part your lips and fuck, he’s finally tasting you fully like he’s been imagining. He loves how soft and warm you are in his arms and the way his lips slide against yours. All of his pent-up desire is out now. The hand at your hip slides down the curve of your ass to grasp your thigh so he can grind shamelessly against you. You whimper, nails pressing into his skin. He rocks his half-hard cock into the warmest part of you, needing more friction. He wants to hear you make that little sound again too. 

“Oh, please,” you gasp when you finally part. 

You sound wrecked and he thinks you look it too.The skin of your face is warm to the touch and your eyes are a little glassy. Jake's half convinced you might let him have you here and for a moment he actually considers it. He knows how good that kind of messy, quick fuck can be but tonight he wants to see all of you. To spend his time taking you apart until you’re incoherent and at his mercy. He can’t do that here. 

“Easy,” Jake whispers, running a hand down your back. “Look at me,” he instructs, smiling when you do. You’re trembling all over and he rubs his thumb over your swollen lips as he gazes down at you. “Catch your breath.”

Once you’re calm he lets go of you and runs a hand through his hair. You’re watching him, waiting to be told what to do. “Go inside, say goodbye to your friends. Then I want you to meet me out front. Got it?”

You nod and he surges forward to kiss you one more time before stepping back to let you past him. 

Fuck, tonight is going to be good he thought. 

♡

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[imjessthemess-rec]

THE WAY MY TUMMY FLUTTERED 😮‍💨

[writercole]

Dangerous Distraction

Summary: A secret mission. A formal gala. Two agents that hate each other. What could go wrong?

Words: 2105

Warnings: Suggestive dancing, Jake Seresin as a secret agent.

Credits: @princessmisery666 for beta reading this, @ryebecca for being the absolute best hype woman and twin that I could ask for. My ride or dies 💕

A/N: This has been in my drafts for a bit now. I found it when I found the other Jake story and…it was finished too. I hope you enjoy.

The mission couldn’t be worse. Not only was she paired with her worst enemy, they had to make everyone believe that they were a couple on their honeymoon, madly in love with one another. She was a skilled agent, one of the best, but even she had no idea how they would be able to pull it off.

Jake Seresin, code name Hangman, had made his feelings abundantly clear from the moment they were introduced. He thought little of her, making demeaning comments about her abilities, her skills, and her training. Though, he claimed, it was never because she was a woman. 

He dismissed every idea or strategy she proposed, often tearing them down publicly, causing a fight that only ended when one of their bosses intervened. He walked away smug, calm, collected while she was visibly seething. On multiple occasions her colleagues pointed out where he wormed his way under her skin, undermined her confidence, and worst of all, she let it affect her; it was then that she decided she hated Jake Seresin.

They had been at the hotel undercover for three days, playing the perfect couple in public, barely speaking behind the room’s closed door. She was grateful for the foresight of the planners to book a suite with a closed off bedroom. She took it over quickly, citing the need for privacy to dress and prepare.

Jake balked at first, whether out of true opposition or the need to be contrary she didn’t know. Regardless, his choice was removed as soon as she slid the doors shut.

Night three happened to be the night of the gala that they had been sent to infiltrate. She was getting dressed, ignoring the way Jake continued to give updates on the time through the closed door. As her lipstick glided across her bottom lip, a knock echoed through her suite.

“How long can it possibly take to get ready?” Jake sassed, “the gala started half an hour ago.”

“Beauty takes time, Hangman,” she replied.

“There isn’t enough time in the day to make you as beautiful as some of the women I’ve seen here,” he muttered under his breath, fidgeting with his watch before he called, “just…hurry up.”

“Why don’t you pull the stick out of your ass and head down to the bar. I’ll meet you there.”

“Fine. But I will handle this without you if you don’t hurry.”

She let out a sigh of relief when the door slammed shut, taking a moment to enjoy the silence before she had to go downstairs to the stuffy ballroom and pretend to be madly in love with a man she detested, one that also despised her.

Jake had been down in the ballroom for ten minutes and had already spotted their target and devised a plan to complete their mission. When another ten minutes had passed with no appearance from his partner, he felt an uneasiness settle in the pit of his stomach. He rested his glass of scotch on the bar and allowed his eyes to sweep over the room again before he went searching for her.

The sounds echoing off of the walls faded to nothing and Jake followed the way everyone’s heads had turned to the door. He stood up straighter while his jaw fell, his gaze raking up and down the body of his partner scanning the crowd.

A blinding smile spit her face in two and she began moving across the room, every gaze following her path.

Jake’s ears picked up the middle of a chord change and realized that the music and conversation hadn’t actually stopped; his senses blocked them out when he caught sight of his partner. Seeing her in a different environment, a formal setting, sparked a reckoning that had not previously crossed his mind.

The beauty that radiated from her stirred a warmth and giddiness in his chest, one that intensified with every step she took towards him. Her smile faded to a smirk and his heart skipped a beat. Jake became intensely aware that in the last minute or two he hadn’t needed to act like the doting newlyweds they were supposed to be. 

She was stopped by a man with wavy hair and a mustache before she could make it to Jake’s corner of the bar. He felt an anger rising up as the man brushed a strand of hair back, caressing her bare shoulder as her hand covered her giggle. An unfamiliar sensation washed over him and he abandoned his drink, stalking over with his shoulders back and his chest puffed out. 

His arm slipped around her waist as he made it to his date. He pressed a kiss to her temple, cooing, “there you are gorgeous.” His eyes focused on the way she looked up at him, wishing for half a second the desire he saw there was real. “I was beginning to think I’d have to come find you. Actually, I was counting on it. Finding you locked up in our room with alternative plans for the evening.”

“And just who are you?” the mustached man asked, ire and disdain lacing his tone.

“I’m her husband,” Jake answered as his grip on her waist tightened, his fingertips digging into her soft hips. “Now, if you’ll excuse us, I need to make sure my wife knows how beautiful she looks tonight.”

Jake pulled her away to the dance floor, twirling her into his chest as he slipped his hand in hers.

“That was far from subtle, Hangman,” she mumbled quietly.

“Aren’t I supposed to be playing the doting husband?”

“The doting husband doesn’t have to be insanely jealous and try to mark his territory in front of a room full of strangers,” she countered, a smirk crossing her lips as her brows rose in challenge.

“When you look the way you do tonight, any husband would want to mark his territory, doting or not,” he replied sincerely, dipping her low as the song ended.

Her eyes searched his face for a sign, for something, for anything that might clue her in to his actual thoughts. All she found was a softness lingering in his slight smile, a hunger in the narrow eyes that flitted down from her eyes to her lips.

The tempo shifted as a new song began and he pulled her upright, stopping her when she tried to leave the dance floor.

“Jake, I can’t dance to this,” she hissed as he spun her around, pulling her back flush to his chest.

“I can,” he muttered against her neck, sending shivers up her spine. “Follow my lead.” His right foot slipped between hers and kicked them apart, a smirk dancing on his face at the gasp she tried to hide.

Jake led her in a tango, twirling and dipping her, his hands wandering over her body as they moved across the dance floor. She followed his lead fluently, her moves becoming second nature as she leaned into the trust she had for the partner who was surprising her this evening.

A heat built between them, the fire in their eyes as passionate as ever, spreading throughout their bodies with every touch, every glance, every whiff of their scent. By the end of the dance, when Jake had their chests pressed against each other, their panting breaths mingling millimeters from their faces, he could no longer hide the fact that he was attracted to her tonight. The evidence was pressed tightly into her hips.

“Seresin,” she hissed under her breath as his hands gripped her tightly. The crowd around them applauded wildly, all eyes she could see focused on them in the middle of the dance floor.

“Do you trust me?” he whispered, his eyes darting between hers anxiously.

She waited a beat before nodding slightly, feeling the tension in his shoulders release. 

“Just a second, then.” His hand slid up her back, pressing between her shoulder blades, holding her tighter as his head dipped to her ear. “I have eyes on the target.”

“I’m assuming my six,” she muttered back with a grin.

“He’s at the bar. You step out onto the terrace and block that exit.”

“And let you get all the credit? I don’t -”

“Do you trust me?” he repeated. His grip loosened when she nodded and he led her off the dance floor, pressing a kiss to her temple as they reached the balcony doors. She stepped out of the door and he turned to the bar, letting out a curse as his eyes widened.

The mark had vanished.

The breeze sent shivers up her spine. The entire situation had her on edge. Hangman had a reputation for leaving his partners high and dry and taking all the credit for the mission himself. The soft click of footsteps prompted her to release a tense breath, her shoulders relaxing as she turned. “Jake, I thought -”

She stopped short when she saw their mark, his face adorned with a dark grin. 

“I’m sorry to disappoint. But I must say, you look beautiful this evening,” the mark said as he buttoned his jacket. 

Two additional men materialized from the shadows and advanced towards her, causing her to take steps backwards. Her heart thudded in her chest and her breathing became labored, gasping for oxygen to fill lungs that fought expansion. There had been no training for a situation where you’re being approached directly on a balcony. 

A piece of tape covered her mouth and a black bag draped over her head before she could scream.

The mark disappeared. Jake swore under his breath as he scanned the room again fruitlessly. There was no sign of him anywhere. His eyes widened and he darted for the balcony door. His stomach fell to the floor as he stepped out onto an empty terrace, the lingering smell of her perfume the only sign she had ever been there.

“Shit,” he swore while he pulled out his phone. “Shit fuck fuck shit.” 

Dialing a contact, he paced frantically across the small space, counting the steps he took back and forth. One, two, three, four, turn. 

“Control.”

“Fucking finally,” Jake barked into the phone. “I need extraction for myself and the location on my partner.”

“I’ll need approval from your mission leader for those,” the tech on the other end of the phone explained. 

“No, what you need to do is find her. I think she was taken by the mark.”

Agonizing minutes passed while he waited on hold with control. The sound of a helicopter landing on the rooftop next door drowned out the response of control and spurred Jake into motion. In one swift motion, he climbed onto the iron railing and jumped to the neighboring building, his shoulder taking the brunt of the landing and propelling him into a roll. Pulling his pistol from his holster, he approached the chopper, finding that the occupants had evacuated and left the pilot.

He raised his weapon and stepped into view. “You’re flying me now.” 

The pilot looked at him and shrugged, flipping a few switches and handing over a headset as Jake settled into the front seat. “Where to?”

Jake only had an inkling of where the mark would have taken her, and barely a guess as to what they were driving but he had to do something, anything. If he didn’t…well he refused to think about the possibilities.

The duct tape over her mouth chafed as she wiggled her lips, trying to loosen the tape enough to moisten the area and get the tape off. The zip ties they placed around her wrists cut deeply as she shifted. She took deep breaths to counter the rising panic in her chest; she had been trained for this. She knew what to do.

“You really shouldn’t struggle so much. You’re going to hurt yourself.”

She couldn’t tell which of her abductors had decided to comment on her escape attempts, but he was on her left. The black cloth they had placed over her face was melting the meticulous makeup she applied before the gala and it pissed her off that she didn’t even get a picture before it was all ruined. Defeated, she slumped back against the seat, her shoulders squeezed between two of the giant men that had taken her hostage.

Her mind reeled with details from her training, what to do, when to do it. She had been in dangerous situations before but this time, something was preventing her from acting. 

This time, she was the collateral. This time, she was relying on someone else to rescue her. And that was terrifying. 

[imjessthemess-rec]

AAAAAHHH THIS IS SO GOOD! Jealous Jake, Jake Dancing, suspense, rivals to lovers?? It has it all!

[writercole]

On Second Thought...

Summary: Dr. Jake Seresin meets his match. Pairing: Jake Seresin x Vikander!Reader (Omaha's sister) Words: 1901 Warnings: Dr. Jake Seresin, flirting, innuendo, Dr. Javy Machado, Sass, probably some swearing, medical discussions regarding neurological symptoms. Credits: I don't know anymore I know @ryebecca helped with the title and gave her squeak of approval on the graphic. A/N: I literally found this on my thumb drive and...well...it's been a long week. Have a treat.

Dr. Jacob Seresin, doctor of neurology, Jake to his friends, sighed heavily when he checked his cell phone. He trudged through the parking garage, exhaustion weighing him down after a twelve hour shift where there had been an influx of patients but an absence of nurses or doctors to be found.

The absence of any text messages or missed calls from his ex girlfriend drove him further into a bad mood. Jake had returned home from a long shift, much like the one he had just ended, to find that she had packed all of her things and gone, leaving only a lingering trace of perfume that dissipated after a week.

That had been nearly four months ago.

He had taken time out of almost every day for the first two months to send her a message, whether good morning, good night, or to hope her day was going well, but there had been radio silence, nothing coming back through the phone, though the messages marked as read.

Truthfully, her abrupt departure from his life had barely rattled him. He could still function; his job never took a hit and his patients never noticed a thing. Even the ones who had been with him since he opened his practice. And the nurses had more interesting things to talk about than his vanilla, ethical love life. 

Jake still felt the sting of loneliness, though, a sting that spread through his veins as he cared for patients with loved ones beside their bed. He may not have loved Gretchen, but he missed the companionship and the emotional connection that came with having someone waiting at home. It was something that surprised him, the need for feelings involved in his relationships.

Jake wasn’t surprised when he saw a message from an old med school buddy, Javy Machado. They’d taken residencies at separate hospitals in the same city and still hung out when their off days coincided. The reason for the message, however, was strange.

> Yo, Seresin. I got a tough case here. Need an outsider to come check this out. Tomorrow. I start my rounds at 6 AM.

Jake replied back that he’d be there and asked for any details that he could get before they met up at the hospital. The more he knew going in, the better. It was easier to rule things out that way. 

At 0530 hours, Jake walked into UMCSD and headed for the cardiac wing. He noticed a distinctly different atmosphere as he walked through the halls. There was a peacefulness under the beeping and bustling that SDGMC didn’t have. 

He rounded the corner and scanned the area, not seeing the tall man that had called him here. A short woman was standing at the counter scribbling on a chart and he walked over in the hope that he could get directions to Machado’s office.

“Excuse me, nurse,” he said. She didn’t respond but her posture stiffened slightly. “Nurse?” he called again, getting no response again. He reached up and tapped her on the shoulder as he tried one more time. “Nurse, I’m looking for Dr. Machado.”

She whipped around, her hair slapping him in the arm, and put her hands on her hips. “You aren’t from here, are you?” 

“Uh, no. I just need -”

“Well, how about you actually find the nurse you were looking for instead of asking a doctor who is charting a consult where to find your…lover,” she spat as she eyed Jake up and down. 

“That’s not…no,” Jake shook his head. “I was called in to consult on a patient. I’m Dr. Seresin from General.”

Her eyes narrowed as she stood there, crossing her arms over her chest. “And Dr. Machado called you in? Are you sure?”

“Jake! You’re early!” they heard called across the wing. Neither of them broke eye contact as Javy walked up to them, clapping Jake on the shoulder. “Oh, good, you’ve met Dr. Vikander.”

“Coyote, what the hell did you call him for?” Dr. Vikander hissed as she diverted her fury to her colleague.

“Well, I thought an extra set of eyes on the case would be helpful,” Javy shrugged. “This is Jake Seresin, an old buddy from med school and the best neurologist on the SDGMC campus.”

“I’m the best neurologist in town, Machado,” Jake corrected.

“No, you’re definitely not,” she scoffed.

“Oh, I’m good, sweetheart. I’m very good,” he smirked, “I’ll be happy to show you.”

“I have to see this. Coyote, lead the way to the patient,” she bit back. 

“Not exactly how I was thinking of demonstrating but if you want an audience, sweetheart, I’m fine with that. I know Javy likes to watch." The look on Dr. Vikander’s face delighted Jake. Getting under people’s skin - especially women - happened to be a favorite pastime of his.

"Dude, that was one time and no patients were involved," Javy corrected. "Can we please go see my patient now?"

Dr. Machado led them into the room and introduced them to the patient, giving a brief overview of his symptoms. "Presented with sudden inability to stand and fainting. He's a patient of mine, single bypass. Cardiac workup is clean."

"Did you feel dizzy or lightheaded before you fainted?" She looked at the digital chart on the tablet, pulling up the bloodwork and cardiac workup that Dr. Machado spoke of.

“Not really,” the patient responded.

“Any headaches?”

“I’ve been having headaches almost daily for years. It wasn’t any different than normal.” The patient shrugged and yawned before continuing. “No allergies either.”

“What about fever, nausea, vomiting?” Jake questioned, looking over her shoulder and ignoring the glare she gave him.

“Nope, nothing like that.”

“You didn’t have the flu recently?”

“Yeah, like two weeks ago but it was a normal flu. My doctor tested me and everything.”

“How about vision loss, double vision, being extra tired, numbness?” Dr. Vikander continued.

“Some numbness. Definitely extra tired. Occasional double vision.” The patient’s voice had quieted, almost as if he were recognizing the seriousness of the condition, the extent of the things he’d been experiencing becoming symptoms.

“Any pain or swelling?”

“Yes, but I just thought it was from the weather changing. You know how it gets when you’ve worked jobs that are hard on your joints and stuff.”

“We’re going to need a few more tests,” Dr. Vikander told him gently. “I’m hoping that we can get this figured out quickly and get you home to your family.”

“Thank you, doctors.”

The three physicians stepped out of the room, the two neurologists following behind Dr. Machado all the way to his office in silence.

“Well, what are we looking at?” Javy asked as he leaned on the edge of his desk.

“Meningitis,” Jake announced with confidence at the same time that she said “multiple sclerosis.”

“Well, those are both easy treatments but they’re vastly different treatments.”

“You can’t possibly be thinking meningitis,” she scoffed. 

“There’s no way that could be MS,” Jake retorted.

“Meningitis doesn’t cause vision problems.” 

“And MS doesn’t cause headaches.”

“He said he’s had those headaches for longer than the other symptoms.”

“Guys,” Javy called. He wasn’t surprised when the two doctors ignored him, facing off against one another for their diagnoses.

“Well, a spinal tap will confirm my suspicions and prove who the better doctor is,” Dr. Vikander stated, crossing her arms over her chest.

“And an MRI and blood culture will confirm mine.” Jake slipped his hands into the pockets of his scrubs, confidence oozing off of him.

“Well that MRI will also show indications of MS.”

“And your spinal tap will show meningitis.”

“At least the two of you agree on the tests that need to be done,” Javy mumbled under his breath, prepping the orders for the patient to have a spinal tap and MRI as well as blood cultures as soon as possible. After the requests were in, he sat back, watching his two friends argue their sides to one another.

He sighed as he watched. The whole point of having her and Jake consult on this patient was to show Jake that UMCSD fit him better. The toxic relationships from SDGMC were non-existent, the doctors worked together better, and while the funding was lower, they helped the patients who needed it the most. And Javy knew that’s what Jake got into medicine for.

“And another thing,” she shouted.

“Enough!” Javy exclaimed as he stood. “I need you guys to work together on this case. It’s not a competition. I’m in over my head and I need as many ideas as I can get. I trust the both of you can do that.”

“Yeah,” Jake mumbled while his shoulders sagged.

“I will try. For you, Machado. But don’t get your hopes up on a diagnosis from this guy,” she said. “Man thought I was a nurse when he got here.”

“You were at the nurse’s station. What else was I supposed to think?”

“I was charting. I’m in a lab coat. I don’t know where you’re from, but around here, lab coats and open charts indicate doctor not nurse.”

“Seriously, if I can’t get you two to work together, I will call another neurologist. And the only one who isn’t retired that I can actually tolerate is Cain. And you know what he’s going to say if I have to call him,” Javy explained.

“Sorry,” the other two doctors muttered. Their heads hung forward and their shoulders curled in, both avoiding eye contact with the cardiologist.

“Thank you. Now, if you will excuse me. I have more rounds to make.” 

The three doctors stepped outside of the office, the two neurologists watching Javy walk away.

“Can I buy you a coffee? As an apology?” Jake offered.

Dr. Vikander eyed him suspiciously and nodded, gesturing for him to follow her. They walked in silence through the hallways, twisting and turning their way towards the little coffee shop that was nestled near the front lobby. “How long have you known Javy?”

“Since our first year as med students. He came in from Tulane, I came in from UT Austin.”

“So you were in the same med school classes, then?”

“Yeah.”

She hummed with a small smile as they approached the barista and ordered their coffees, surprising each other when she got a quad with 2 sugars and Jake ordered a vanilla frappuccino with extra whipped cream. The smile on her face stayed while their coffees were made, confounding Jake, pushing his buttons until he couldn’t hold back any longer.

“Why is Javy and I being in the same med school class making you so happy?” he questioned.

“Oh, no reason,” she denied. As they collected the coffees placed on the counter, she added, “just that I’ve been practicing longer than you.”

Jake stared after her as she walked back towards the entrance. Several emotions swirled in his body. Disbelief and surprise swelled at the core of his being, surrounded by jealousy, a need to be better than her, and also a sense of enchantment. 

She captured his attention with her fire and her passion, the way she fought for a patient she didn’t even know. She stood her ground when confronted with a different opinion. Her intelligence and wit challenged him in a way that made him want to both stare in awe and scream in anger.

She was going to be a problem for him.

[imjessthemess-rec]

THE BEST PROBLEM TO HAVE! This is fantastic!

[writercole]

Cat's Out of the Bag

Summary: Jake has secrets Words: 1500ish Warnings: angsty-ish, twist, found family, Jake Seresin. A/N: I CANNOT TELL YOU HOW HAPPY I AM THAT I HAVE MUSES FOR SOMEONE OTHER THAN CHARLES LECLERC RIGHT NOW. A/N 2: Enjoy this word vomit that took all of 30 minutes to write.

Jake Seresin sat quietly at the bar, his fingers twirling the short glass of whiskey in front of him. The behavior struck the entire bar as out of character, the blond pilot’s general demeanor being loud, boastful, and needing to be the center of attention.

“What’s wrong with him?” Rooster whispered to Coyote.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Coyote, you’re his best friend. You know more than any of the rest of us will ever hope to know. What is wrong with Hangman?”

Coyote sighed as he looked over at the man seated at the bar. He knew there were things the team didn’t know, things Jake didn’t want them to know. But the pleading stares of their co-workers wore him down. “His wife left.”

“I’m sorry, what?” Rooster stammered.

The only one in the group unfazed by the news of the cocky pilot’s spouse was Bob, something that didn’t shock Coyote at all.

“So you’re telling me,” Phoenix started, setting her beer down, “that not only has Bagman been married this whole time, but now he’s pouting at the bar because she’s gone?”

“He’s never mentioned a wife, though,” Fanboy commented.

“I can’t believe he’d do that to his wife,” Payback scoffed. “No wonder she left.”

“Do what to her?” Coyote questioned, his tone defensive as he squared his shoulders.

“The women, the drinking, you know, his basic weekend,” Payback clarified.

“The women he never left with? The ones he bought a drink for and sent to someone else? The max of two beers he nursed through the night while buying us multiple rounds?” Coyote rebutted, his temper flaring as he stared down the other pilot.

“We never actually saw anything besides talking,” Bob added with a shrug.

“Not only are you telling us that Jake ‘Hangman’ Seresin is not the ladies man he pretended to be, but that he’s married.” Fanboy shook his head and swallowed a mouthful of beer as he processed the information.

“I’m honestly surprised no one else picked up on it,” Coyote shrugged, relaxing a little after Bob took his side.

“Why didn’t you tell us?” Phoenix asked.

“Not my place to tell. Besides, Jake asked me for discretion.”

“And you, Bob?”

“No one asked me. Besides, I don’t like betraying my friends’ confidence.”

“They knew you know?!” Fanboy stared, slack-jawed at the quiet backseater, mentally running through all of their conversations for any mention of the crucial detail.

“She’s got a killer brownie recipe,” Bob squeaked as his cheeks reddened with the attention focused on him.

“What are we going to do?” Rooster sighed as he watched his rival toss a bill on the counter and leave his unfinished drink.

“I have an idea,” Phoenix smirked.

Jake sighed as he put away the last plate. Seven o’clock on a Saturday morning and he had worked out for tow hours, cooked and ate breakfast, showered, and cleaned the entire house.

He always had trouble sleeping alone.

His brows furrowed when he heard a knock on the front door. His muscles tensed and he crept forward quietly, shaking his head and relaxing when he saw who was there.

“Hey Jake!” a chorus greeted as he opened the door to his squad.

“Guys, what are you doing here?” Jake questioned, his eyes boring into Coyote’s forehead as his best friend actively avoided his gaze.

“Coyote mentioned what happened a few days ago and Phoenix – oof – we decided to come hang out for the day,” Rooster explained with the help of Phoenix’s elbow.

“Guys, really, it’s fine -”

“We aren’t leaving until after lunch at the earliest,” Phoenix interrupted.

Jake regarded the brunette carefully before stepping aside and allowing his friends into his home. “Shoes,” he barked to the four who weren’t already removing their footwear.

“Nice place you have here Ba- Jake,” Fanboy complimented as he took in the bright spaces.

“Thanks. It’s small but it’s home,” Jake replied. “Living room’s through here.” He led them to a spacious room with vaulted ceilings, built in bookcases framing a large television set.

“Call of Duty?” He asked as he picked up a controller and powered on a gaming console.

Payback was quick to pick up the second controller and settle into an armchair. “Man, we live Call of Duty. You got Madden?”

“Do I have Madden? Who do you think you’re talking to?”

Phoenix and Rooster shared a look of relief at the almost immediate improvement in their friend’s mood.

Several hours and a coffee table covered in snacks later, Jake was yelling instructions at Bob on which buttons to press to run a play that would win the match against Phoenix.

The overlapping voices in the room were so loud that they didn’t hear the door open and shut.

“Jakey, what is all of this?” An amused voice called out over the ruckus.

“Baby, you’re back!” Jake shouted as he vaulted across the room, leaping over bodies like a golden retriever to scoop the woman up in his arms and twirl her around. His lips met hers as her feet dangled off the ground, the pair of them oblivious to the way all noise had stopped.

“Jake, please put me down. I’m getting sick!”

“Sorry, sweetheart,” he apologized as he set her feet back on the floor.

“Will someone please explain what’s going on?” Fanboy said.

“Hi, I’m Jake’s wife,” she giggled as Jake wrapped his arms around her from behind. “You must be the rest of his squad. Fanboy, Phoenix, Payback and...Chicken? Right?”

Jake stifled his laughter with her shoulder as Rooster gawked at her. “Rooster, not chicken.”

“I’m so sorry,” she blurted. “I just hadn’t been able to put faces to the names Jake always mentioned.”

“Coyote said you left,” Rooster stated.

“Yeah, I had to go home for a few days for a dress fitting. Jake’s sister is getting married next month.”

“Is everything else okay?” Jake questioned, taking her attention back to him.

“Yeah, your mom sends her love. Gran can’t wait. You know, everyone so excited for everything.”

“Did Leah agree to our idea?”

“Oh my god she’s thrilled, Jake! I wish you could have seen her face! As maid of honor and best man, we’ll do a joint speech at the rehearsal.”

“And the other thing?”

“Of course she and Derek agreed!”

“Hey, uh, there’s five –“ Rooster stopped and looked at Bob who seemed like he would melt into the couch with relief – “okay, four very confused squad mates here need to know what the fuck is going on.”

“Can I? PLEASE JAKE!?” she pleaded as she turned to face her husband. He nodded slightly and she squealed, planting a kiss to his cheek before rushing out of the room.

“Coyote, what did you tell them?” Jake asked as he took in the faces of his friends around the room.

“I said your wife left,” Coyote shrugged.

“That’s ALL he said!” Payback shouted.

“Bob, you didn’t tell them either?”

“BOB KNEW?!”

“Bob is technically family at this point. My sister, Leah, is marrying his brother, Derek,” Jake explained as his wife came back with a small bundle.

She handed Jake a box and unfurled a piece of cloth, grinning as gasps rang out around the room.

“Coming soon...baby Seresin,” Rooster read aloud.

“You’re pregnant!” Phoenix exclaimed, crossing the room to give her congratulations up close.

“So...you’re married, your wife didn’t leave you for good, and she’s having your kid?” Fanboy scrunched his face as he attempted to process the information he’d been given in such a small amount of time.

“Yeah, pretty much,” Jake confirmed with a grin, his arm wrapped around his wife’s waist as Phoenix begged for details.

“Jake, baby, why don’t we throw something on the grill for everyone?” she asked as she looked up at him.

“If that’s what you want, absolutely,” he responded with a kiss to her head.

“It would be nice to get to know everyone. Now that all of the cats are out of their respective bags.”

“You’re going to make me socialize outside of work with them, aren’t you?” Jake pouted.

“Well, we already see Bob and Javy all the time. We might as well throw in the rest as well.”

Jake groaned dramatically, smiling when he saw how happy the idea made her. “Fine. Coyote, you’re coming to the store with me. Bob, you keep her off of her feet.”

“I’m not telling her what to do,” Bob balked.

“Don’t worry, baby,” she cooed as she turned his face to her and kissed his lips again. “I will sit down in that chair and not move until it’s time for dinner.”

“Good.”

“Sorry for letting the cat out of the bag, man,” Coyote  apologized, clapping his shoulder.

“Maybe I should have done it sooner,” Jake mused. “It seems to make her happy to have another girl around.”

Jake slipped on his shoes and grabbed his keys, turning back before stepping out of the door. These people may not be blood, but they were his family.

[imjessthemess-rec]

COLE THIS WAS ABSOLUTELY ADORABLE!!!

[callsign-fox]

Wingman - Rooster

Pairing: Rooster x Fem!Reader

Been sitting in the drafts/Lightly edited

Written with @fanficgirl429 <3

18+ Only // Enjoy xo

--------------------------------------------------------

When you sign on to be a pilot for the Navy as a female, you know you’ll have to put up with egotistical men on a daily basis, however, it’s not until you have to work with them that you realize how incredibly self centered they actually are. 

The canopy to my jet raised and I quickly climbed down the ladder. My wingman, Rooster, landed right behind me and he was currently maneuvering his jet into the assigned spot beside mine. Rooster was not my first choice for a wingman, he wasn’t my second or third either. It was near impossible to work with him and I was sure our superiors were getting ready to ship one of us off to Guam just to separate us from one another. Fortunately for them, we were two of the best the Navy had to offer and so for that reason alone, we were stuck together. 

I glanced up from my current conversation with my flight crew just as Rooster walked by, his head down and stupid aviator sunglasses shielding his eyes. I rolled my eyes as he continued by not saying a word. Of course he wouldn't say anything, he was the reason we failed the exercise.

“That was a disaster,” I mumbled to myself.

I turned behind me just as my friend Phoenix walked by. “What was going on up there?” she asked, watching    

Bradley as he disappeared into the locker room. 

“I don’t know. Why don’t you go ask Bradley and report it back to me?” 

Phoenix shook her head. “No thanks. I’m slightly terrified of him when he’s angry.” 

I rolled my eyes. “Well, he’s an asshole.”

Phoenix glanced back at the locker room before looking over at me. She lowered her voice as she said, “I have to tell you something about Bradley and it’s probably going to make you mad.” 

“Well if it has to do with Bradley, of course it’s going to make me mad.”

Phoenix sighed and began, “Well, I was at the Hard Deck the other night and ran into Anders. Apparently there is a rumor going around about you back in the Academy.” 

My eyes narrowed in on her and I clenched my fist, “About what?”

“Now don't shoot the messenger, you can be scary sometimes too.” 

“Phoenix!” I yelled, losing my patience. 

“Apparently Bradley started a rumor that the only reason you got into Top Gun was because you…” Phoenix trailed off. 

My heart began to race and I felt my cheeks grow hot. “Because I what?” 

“Because you gave Admiral Rhodes a blow job.” 

“What?” I shrieked and quickly began to walk towards the locker room. 

When I reached the door to the men's locker room, I pulled it open and immediately locked eyes with Hangman. A towel hung off his hips, showing off his incredible abs. I tore my eyes away, feeling a blush creep up my neck. 

“Where is he?” I asked. 

Without hesitating, Hangman pointed towards the back, where I assumed the showers were. There was only one shower being used and I walked over and pushed the white curtain aside. 

“Hey!” a very familiar voice shouted. “What the fuck?” 

I took a step back, not wanting to get wet. Bradley reached out and grabbed his white towel from the hook and wrapped it around his waist. I couldn’t help but notice how well built he was. His six pack abs were on full display and I hated how much I wanted to run my fingers along them. 

“What do you want Y/N?” 

My eyes snapped away from his body and I stared into his brown eyes. “I heard a rumor about me. One that you might happen to know about.” 

Bradley narrowed his eyes and nodded. “Yea, I might happen to know what you’re referring to.” 

“Are you insane? What did I do to you besides tolerate you every damn day for the last four years!”

Bradley shrugged. “I’ve been a delight! You have done nothing but drive me insane.”

“You didn't know, the only reason I’m here is to drive you crazy!”

Bradley laughed. “Nope. The only reason you’re here is because you gave Admiral Rhodes a blow job.” 

My jaw dropped and I couldn't help but growl at him. “That never happened! I hate you so much.”

“Don’t worry sweetheart, the feeling is mutual.” 

I took a step forward and shoved him hard causing him to stumble back into the shower, but before I could react his hand grabbed my wrist, pulling me under the hot stream of water. To my amusement my hands were pressed against his chest, and before I could register what I was doing my nails ran down his toned abs to the top of his towel. The moment was over when I pulled my hands away and brushed them through my now wet hair. 

“Do you have any idea how attractive you are when you’re mad at me?” he said, his voice low. 

His words caught me off guard. “Wait, what?”

The hot water was still running over my body and I was becoming increasingly aware of just how see through my white t-shirt was when I noticed Bradley’s eyes looking down at my chest. 

“I know I shouldn't be this turned on right now, but I am.”

I rolled my eyes and pushed a piece of wet hair behind my ear. “You’re such a prick.”

Bradley ran his tongue along his lower lip and smiled. A moment later his lips came crashing into mine. The urge to push him off of me came and went as my hands snaked around his neck and I began twirling my fingers through his hair. 

His lips moved quickly as he placed his hands on my hips, pulling me closer to him. My body was pressed against his and I could feel his erection against my stomach. My core slightly throbbed, begging to be touched by him. 

Bradley’s fingers toyed with the bottom of my wet t-shirt before he slipped them under and pulled the shirt over my head, barely breaking the kiss. My shirt dropped to the floor and I quickly pushed it away with my foot. By now the rest of the guys would have left, but I pulled the shower curtain shut just in case. 

His lips brushed softly against my neck before pressing against my ear and whispered, “Does that mean you want me to keep going?” 

My fingers toyed with the top of Bradley’s towel as I gave him a slight nod. His hands gripped my waist and he swiftly spun us around so that my back was pressed against the wall. Bradley hurriedly unbuttoned my wet jean shorts and pushed them down my waist before dropping them to the floor. He quickly turned off the water as it began to get cold, but not before our lips were once again intertwined. In the mess of clothes coming off, I hadn’t even noticed his towel dropped to the floor, proving to me that the rumors about how endowed Bradley Bradshaw was, were indeed true. 

“Well, well. I guess I won’t ever be able to spread anymore rumors about how small Rooster is.” 

He pulled back, slightly offended. “Wait, what have you been telling people?” 

I let out a small laugh. “What’s done is done, YOU told people I gave an admiral a blow job.” 

“And if you’re any good at it, I'll be sure to pass that on and your spot in Top Gun will have been well deserved.” 

I gave him a small smack on his arm before reaching over and placing my hand against his chest. My eyes locked with his as I slowly began to run my fingers down his chest and towards his stomach. My polished nails left faint red lines on his skin and Bradley looked all too amused as he watched me drop down to my knees. 

Bradley sucked in his breath as my hand wrapped around him. I slowly moved my hand along his length, which by Bradley’s reaction of pressing his hand to the wall to steady himself, was a good move. I gently grazed my tongue over his tip and his free hand instinctively moved to my long brown hair, giving it a slight tug. I smiled as his hips jerked forward, pushing his length further into my mouth. I didn’t miss a beat as I continued with my lips wrapped around him, causing him to let out a deep moan and pull tighter on my hair.

“Y/N,” Bradley breathed, “you need to stop…now.”

I let out a small chuckle before standing up and Bradley immediately pulled me against him. He placed his lips against mine, kissing me quickly. One hand wrapped around my waist, while the other moved up my stomach and towards my chest. His fingers played with my nipple, causing it to stand erect. With each touch, my core throbbed from being ignored by him. I rubbed my thighs together, trying to ease the tension but Bradley noticed. His hand moved from my chest, along my stomach, and towards my core. 

His calloused fingers ran along my center, coming to a stop at my sensitive spot. Two fingers rubbed against it and I let out a moan. Bradley’s lips continued to move against mine and he slipped two fingers inside me. He moved them against me and I could feel my high quickly approaching with each movement. 

“I’m close,” I told him. 

His fingers continued to move and it didn’t take long before my walls were clenching around him. My legs became weak and Bradley placed his hands on my hips, helping me steady myself. It had been a while since I had an orgasm that intense. 

Once I was able to stand on my own, I reached down and placed my hand on his erection. He took a step closer to me. 

“Are you sure you still want to do this?” he asked. 

“If you ask me one more time, I’m going to walk out of here,” I told him. 

“You’re making it really hard to hate you right now,” Bradley said, while placing a hand on the back of my thigh. 

My leg wrapped around his waist, and without hesitation Bradley pushed his length inside of me, my walls stretching around him. A gasp escaped my lips and Bradley smiled.

“You’re so tight.” 

He gave me a moment to get used to the size before he began to move his hips against mine. 

Each thrust pushed me closer to my second climax of the day. I let out a loud gasp as his length hit the perfect spot. 

Bradley smirked as I continued to melt against his touch. 

“I’m so close,” I whispered. 

He reached down and pressed two fingers against my sensitive spot, rubbing it casually. 

Within moments my walls clenched around him and my legs became weak. The humidity from the shower made our bodies sticky and sweaty, which only helped my arousal. Bradley continued thrusting and seconds later he released inside of me, a moan escaping his lips. 

The two of us stood there for a moment, catching our breaths. Bradley stared at me and I smiled shyly, fully realizing that we were both completely naked. I reached for the towel he had hung on the side of the shower and wrapped it around my waist. 

“That was mine.” 

I stepped out of the shower, reaching down and picking up my soaked t-shirt and shorts that had lazily been pushed aside. “These are the only clothes I have with me. How am I supposed to get home?” 

He walked over to his duffle bag that was sitting on the bathroom bench and pulled out a gray t-shirt. “Here you go. I can get it back from you tomorrow, after training.”

“That would imply I am inviting you over to get it, and I haven’t.” 

“Oh,” Bradley said with a wink. “You will invite me over.” And once again there was that attitude I knew and hated.

[blue-aconite]

the offside rule || j.h.s

Summary: Jake learns that his girl is crazy about football, but not the kind he expected.

Warnings: jake being a sweetheart, no use of y/n

Word Count: 1.5k

Pairings: Jake Seresin x f!reader

Authors Note: This is inspired by @roosterforme's Sundays Are for the Boys and @teacupsandtopgun's Jake and Flick universe. This is also very self-indulgent and somewhat based on parts of my life.

“What are you doing?” Jake emerged from the bathroom, only to find his girlfriend on the couch, watching what looked like soccer. 

“I’m watching football, what does it look like?” She didn’t take her eyes off the screen as she reached for the beer bottle on the coffee table. 

Jake didn’t know how to respond. He knew what soccer was, he wasn’t an idiot but he never knew that his girl enjoyed the sport. 

“Soccer, baby. It’s called soccer.” 

Jake knew it was the wrong thing to say as she turned around, an unimpressed look on her face. 

“I’m going to forgive you this time. But in the future, for your information, it’s called football. Not your ridiculous term soccer.” She was all business, a sharp edge to her tone that Jake hadn’t really experienced in their relationship so far. 

There was a sparkle in her eyes that told him she wasn’t as serious as her tone suggested though. Jake flopped down on the couch next to her, plucking the beer out of her hands. “Is this MLS?” 

She snorted, rolling her eyes as she looked him up and down. “MLS is a shit league. It only got interesting since Messi signed for Inter Miami and it’s still shit. You know, we call it the retirement league because it’s where all the greats come to wind down and just kick around.” 

“Hey!” Jake protested. “Doesn’t it have a somewhat good reputation?”

She shook her head. “Baby, I love you but you’ve been greatly deceived.” She patted his cheek, opening another beer, seeing as he had stolen hers. 

Jake grumbled, sinking lower into the couch. Granted, his soccer knowledge was limited but he thought that MLS at least was a popular league. 

“What’s this then?” He pointed to the screen where the game was playing. 

His girl clapped excitedly, tossing the cap onto the table. “This is the greatest league in the world. I give you the Premier League.” She dramatically spread her arms, as if showing him something of great importance. 

In a way, Jake guessed that she was. He had no idea she was this passionate about this but he found it endearing that she did. 

“I recognise that, it’s England, yeah?” Jake was 80% certain he was right but he could also be wrong. Like he said, his knowledge of soccer was limited. 

“Yes! PL is played in England and it’s hands down the most popular and watched league. But there’s obviously others as well.” 

He was a bit intrigued and Jake also wanted to know more about something that made his girl this excited. “Others?” 

“Oh, you’ve got La Liga for example, and Ligue 1. And then there’s Serie A and Bundesliga. My dad used to watch a lot of Eredivisie too. He was a lifelong fan of Ajax.” She quieted down a bit at the end, a sad smile on her face as she remembered her dad. 

Jake pressed a kiss to her shoulder, hand finding hers. He gave a supportive squeeze. He understood now why this was so important to her. 

“Did you guys watch a lot together?” He asked as the game seemingly was paused, the players leaving the field. 

“Yeah. He took me to my first game when I was 4. I barely remember it but I remember the feeling. And he coached my team for as long as I played.” 

That surprised Jake. “You used to play?” It wasn’t something that had come up but he guessed it was somewhat of a sore subject. 

“From the age of five til I was fifteen, maybe sixteen,” she paused. “Uh, I quit playing when he got sick. He wanted me to continue but it just wasn’t the same. It was our thing and then all of a sudden he wasn’t there and..” 

Jake pulled her into his arms, lips pressed to her forehead. “Baby, why haven’t you told me about this before? I would have loved to know more about football if I knew it meant this much to you.” 

She smiled when he called it football and Jake counted it as a small victory. “I honestly don’t know. You’re more of an American football fan and I just figured you didn’t care about this.” 

“I would have cared if you told me. Hell, I know you don’t really care about the Cowboys but you still hang out with me when they play. And wear the jersey.” 

She laughed then, leaning back from his embrace but kept their hands intertwined. “I wear the jersey because I know it gets you all hot and bothered.”

“Well, that’s definitely a perk. You do look very good in blue.” Jake kissed her then, hands sneaking under her shirt to trace her skin. 

She was blushing when they pulled apart and Jake grinned, proud to be the one to make her that way. 

“So is Ajax your team?” He asked, playing with the hem of her shirt. 

“No. As much as I respect and enjoy Dutch football, the Premier League always called to me more. And then I fell in love with Manchester United.” 

Jake’s eyebrows shot up, teasingly pinching her sides. “Fell in love, huh? That means I got competition?” 

She rolled her eyes, pressing a chaste kiss to his lips. “Don’t worry, I won’t leave you for the Red Devils.” 

“Good. Is this them then?” He gestured towards the screen, where the game had resumed. 

“No, they play Aston Villa tomorrow. This is Newcastle vs Arsenal.” 

Jake watched as the team in black and white kicked the ball back and forth. “Okay, you’re going to have to explain this to me. I know nothing.” 

She launched into the game, explaining what was happening as well as informing him about the rules and terms. Jake tried his best to keep up but figured he was going to have to do some independent studying to catch up. 

If this was important to his girl, it was important to him. He watched as she kept on talking, gesturing back and forth with her hands, eyes alight with excitement. 

“But there must be leagues outside of Europe, yeah?” He asked after learning that the ones she had rambled off earlier were all based in European countries. 

“For sure, but those are the most popular ones. And considering how much of an impact the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League have, it’s difficult for leagues outside of Europe to compete.” 

Jake’s mind was reeling, trying to piece all the information together. “Wait, Europa League and Champions League? Conference? Where’s that?” 

“All of those are played by teams in Europe. You qualify for UCL when you win your league in your country, and the second tier goes on to play in the UEL and third tier in UECL.” At Jake’s confused expression, she smiled apologetically. 

“Sorry, this is way overboard. How about we keep that for another day and we just keep to the basics for now?” 

Jake breathed a sigh of relief. “Yes please.”

She handed him another beer, smiling softly. 

“So, do I get a Manchester United jersey? It’s only fair, I got you a Cowboys one.” Jake asked. 

He was comfortably leaning back against the armrest of the couch. Initially he had tried to get her to snuggle with him but quickly found out that she wasn’t going to sit still while watching the game. 

“Babe, you’ll get a jersey when you deserve one. Maybe earlier if you can explain the offside rule to me.”  

He was screwed then. “Never mind. I’ll wait.” 

“It’s really not that difficult. A player would be seen as offside if their entire body is in front of the last defender of the opposing team, on the opposing team's half.” 

Jake tried to imagine what it would look like but his mind came up blank. “You’re just speaking gibberish, that doesn’t make sense.”

She smiled softly, a gleam in her eye. “Don’t worry, I’ll make you a football fan. Just you wait.”

“I can’t wait. I’m also very excited to see you watch your team play.” 

The game was now over and she climbed into his lap, hands finding the back of his head. “Oh, you’re in for a wild ride.” 

Making the most of their position, Jake grabbed a hold of her thighs as he stood up, ignoring her squeal as he headed towards the bedroom. “How about I give you a ride right now?” 

Two months later, when Jake officially got the offside rule right, a package was waiting for him on the kitchen table when he got home. 

His heart swelled as he pulled out a bright red Manchester United jersey, embroidered with his callsign on the back. There was a note inside the box as well and Jake laughed as he read what his girlfriend had written. 

Now you’re a real football fan. Glory glory Man United! 

Ps. Come find me ;) 

“You’re playing a dangerous game, sweetheart.” He called, jersey in hand as he stalked the house. 

Her laughter echoed through the house. “Come claim your prize, cowboy.”

Taglist: @wildbornsiren​ @ryebecca @imjess-themess @reels-and-wheels @antiquitea @writercole @hederasgarden @yanna-banana @bobfloydsbabe @hollandorks @anniesocsandgeneralstore @ereardon @luminousnotmatter @roosterscock @thedroneranger @fandomxpreferences @honkytonk-hangman @princessmisery666 @bradshawsbitch​ @a-reader-and-a-writer @green-socks @angstybluejay @seresinhangmanjake @ayorooster​@notroosterbradshaw​ @indynerdgirl @gigisimsonmars @girl-in-the-chairs-void @bradshawbabes @unhinged-btch @horseshoegirl @sadpetalsstuff @bradshawbaby @ahopelessromanticwritersworld @ummjustfics​ @septemberrie​ @somenamewithepineapple​ @seresinsweetie​​ @crescentwolf​ @seresinhangmanjake​ @waklman​ @roosterforme​ @rosiahills22​ @dempy​ @i0veless​ @ilovewriting06​ @kmc1989​ @demxters @amortentiadrops @teacupsandtopgun @hangmanscoming @hangmanssunnies

[imjessthemess-rec]

This was so fucking adorable!!

[blue-aconite]

book club activities || r.b.f

Summary: Bob's girlfriend has a book club.

Warnings: Suggestive texting, absolute nonsense, somehow Bradley and Jake stole the show (idiots)

Word Count: 940

Pairings: Bob Floyd x f!reader

Authors Note: Happy birthday @bobfloydsbabe! This is the dumbest thing I've ever written and it also sucks but it has your favourite lil dude in it and I love you! I hope you've had a great birthday! Enjoy this insanely weird drabble.

“You should really read it.” 

Bob sighed, rubbing a hand across his face. “Sweetheart, I’m not reading Twilight with you.” 

His girlfriend pouted from the corner of the couch, aiming a kick against his shin. “But you liked the films.” 

“No, I said I thought they weren’t bad. I never said I liked them.” They had watched all of the films a weeknight ago, which Bob initially had only done to please her. 

“And you said the films were better than the books.” Bob argued, reaching over to right the blanket covering her body as it had half fallen to the floor. 

“Yes but I still think you should read the books.” She said, crossing her arms across her chest. 

“I will go out and get you your favourite food, two new books, a new notepad and pencils if you don’t make me read the books.” Bob placated, hoping that it would satisfy her. 

She looked thoughtful, eyebrows drawing together as she contemplated his offer. 

“Which books?

Bob smiled, knowing he was winning. “Whichever you want, darling.” 

She stared at him for another moment before tossing the blanket aside to cuddle into his side. 

“I want Pho, I don’t have the last two books of ASOIAF and please get me a A4 notebook, not A5,” she paused momentarily, hand splayed against his abdomen, “and cuddles please.”

He pressed a kiss to her forehead, slouching slightly so she could get more comfortable. “Yes ma’am.” 

The rain was smattering against windows, the sun setting just behind the tree line they could see from their backyard. 

Ever since  Bob had found out he was going to be stationed permanently in San Diego, they decided to get a house and set down some roots. 

“I love you, even if you don’t want to read Twilight with me.” She whispered against his T-shirt, making Bob laugh. She soon joined in and they giggled together for a few moments before once again settling into the couch. 

“I love you too. Do you want Pho from the place close to base or the other one?” 

She hummed, eyes falling shut as she snuggled into his side. “Base please.” 

Bob waited a few minutes before her breathing evened out and then gently untangled himself from her embrace. 

After making sure she was properly tucked in for her nap, he grabbed his keys and wallet. He had a promise to make good on. 

Next Day

“Dude, you should read them though, they’re actually pretty good. Not the writing but the story. Love triangle, vampires, werewolves and hybrid babies.” Rooster said through a mouthful of scrambled eggs. 

Phoenix snorted, rolling her eyes. “Not the most intriguing introduction, Roos.” 

Bob watched as they jabbed back and forth, pushing his food around on his plate. 

Hangman and Coyote sat down with their trays, interrupting the squabble happening across from Bob. 

“What’s up?” Javy asked. 

“Are you team Edward or team Jacob?” Rooster asked, completely serious. 

Coyote’s eyebrows shot up, mouth pressed into a tight line. “Dude, are you talking about Twilight?” 

“Yes! Bob watched the films with his girl and he doesn't want to read the books but I think they’re pretty good and Nat says they’re crap and now we gotta decide what team.” Bradley rambled, earning another smack to the side. 

Javy stared them both down, an unimpressed look on his face. “I don’t like fantasy.” 

“WHAT? Dishonour on you, dishonour on your family, dishonour on your cow!” Rooster dramatically gasped, clutching at his chest. 

The entire table rolled their eyes at their teammates' dramatics, all of them now used to Bradley’s antics. 

“Okay fine. I didn’t care enough to choose a team, the films were good and I’ve already read the books but don’t tell my girlfriend that. She’ll never let me live it down.” Bob spoke up, making Bradley smile. 

“I knew it. Everyone has read those books, except Javy here, apparently.” Rooster announced proudly, reaching across the table to fist bump Bob. 

“I personally am Team Bella. Neither Edward or Jacob were good for her. Jacob was an immature kid, not his fault, it’s just his character and Edward had issues. Real issues. The best thing for her would have been to get the hell out of Forks and work on becoming her own person.” 

The entire table fell silent, staring at Jake who didn’t even look up from his plate. No one spoke for a few beats before Bradley began clapping like a seal, shit eating grin in place. 

Bob shook his head as he reached for his phone, texting his girlfriend. She would enjoy the currently bizarre conversation that was taking place and maybe he could get out of book club if he mentioned that apparently both Rooster and Hangman were fans of the series. 

Hangman and Rooster like Twilight. 

Make them bring food and the books next time you invite them over. 

PS, you’re still gonna read the books with me, pls. 

Damn, he really thought he’d gotten away with reading the darn books again. 

If you and I are going to have a book club, no one else is welcome. 

How come??

Club activities are strictly taking place in the bedroom. 

He sent off the last text quickly, before pocketing his phone and turning back to the conversation. 

He didn’t receive an answer until he was scheduled to fly. There was a short message and a picture attached. 

Fine. 

And beneath the text was a picture partially obscuring the view of what seemed to be his girlfriend’s favourite lingerie set and all four books of the series. 

Bob couldn’t wait to go home.

Taglist: @wildbornsiren​ @ryebecca @imjess-themess @reels-and-wheels @antiquitea @writercole @hederasgarden @yanna-banana @bobfloydsbabe @hollandorks @anniesocsandgeneralstore @ereardon @luminousnotmatter @roosterscock @thedroneranger @fandomxpreferences @top-hhun @princessmisery666 @bradshawsbitch​ @a-reader-and-a-writer @green-socks @angstybluejay @seresinhangmanjake @ayorooster​@notroosterbradshaw​ @indynerdgirl @gigisimsonmars @girl-in-the-chairs-void@bradshawbabes @unhinged-btch @horseshoegirl @sadpetalsstuff @bradshawbaby @ahopelessromanticwritersworld @ummjustfics​ @septemberrie​ @somenamewithepineapple​ @seresinsweetie​​ @crescentwolf​ @seresinhangmanjake​ @waklman​ @roosterforme​ @rosiahills22​ @dempy​ @i0veless​ @ilovewriting06​ @kmc1989​ @demxters @amortentiadrops @teacupsandtopgun @hangmanscoming

[imjessthemess-rec]

THIS WAS SO CUTE!!! I absolutely love it!

[writercole]

Try Again

Summary: Feelings don't die without a fight. Words: 1069 Warnings: Fluff A/N: I loved writing this one so much.

The heat of San Diego was hard to handle but it was something Beau Simpson had become accustomed to in his time serving at North Island. Right now, though, the heat building inside him had a different cause. The sight of his ex-wife, the woman he had reconnected with just a few months ago, the only woman who could ever tempt him to leave the Navy, was standing just a few feet away under a gazebo with none other than Pete Mitchell, the biggest troublemaker on base and the biggest thorn in his side.

She knew his feelings towards the man; she’d known how he felt about the insufferable pilot since before they divorced, before they married. The amount of messes that Beau had to clean up from the headstrong, reckless pilot outnumbered the amount of times he’d bought flowers for his wife in the ten years they were together. Though, maybe that wasn’t something to brag about.

As he watched the exchange from beneath the shaded overhang of the building, his brain reminded him of everything he’d ever loved about her. Her willingness to go along with any plan, her incredible ideas when it came to design and engineering, and the biggest heart he’d ever had the pleasure of knowing. The gazebo she was standing under was a volunteer project for the local high school, something set up so that teachers could have a place outside to work on lesson plans in peace.

The moment Mitchell’s arms wrapped around her, he began moving, hurrying across the parking lot where he’d just come from speaking to the principal about the NJROTC program. Mitchell slipped out of the backside of the structure, not sparing a glance in the Admiral’s direction as he approached.

Beau stopped at the entrance of the gazebo and slipped his hands in his pockets, waiting for her to turn around instead of announcing himself. He watched quietly as she packed up her supplies, humming to herself, a sign she was lost in her own thoughts. Beau smiled as he watched her, his heart pounding in his chest while his mind reeled with memories of the two of them together years ago, before the end of their romance.

“Beau,” she gasped, pulling him out of his musings and back to the present.

“Hey, Kitten,” he greeted, his voice low.

“I didn’t know you were here. I…I didn’t think…” she trailed off, her eyes locked onto his.

Beau could see something swimming behind her eyes. Maybe it’s the memories of our divorce, he theorized. “How are you?”

“Uh, good. I’m good. How are you, Bobo?”

The old nickname made him chuckle while making his heart squeeze in his chest. He didn’t realize how much he missed her until his eyes landed on her moments ago. “I’ve been better,” he answered honestly. “Can I, uh, give you a hand?”

“It’s just clean up. You don’t have to,” she shrugged.

“I didn’t ask because I feel obligated. I’d like to actually talk to you, see what you’ve been up to the last fifteen years. Find out how you ended up here.”

She studied him for a moment, eyebrows furrowed and eyes narrowed. With a sigh, she said, “okay. I’d ask what you’d been doing but I can see it’s been all work, Admiral. Some things don’t change.”

Beau ducked his head momentarily before raising it slightly, looking her in the eyes. “I know I messed up with us. And I will forever regret it. But how did you end up back here?”

“An old friend called in a favor. Her sister teaches here and they passed the project at the last school board meeting. Penny knew that I had the skills they wanted and then some so she called me.”

“And you came.”

“Yeah. Penny even sent a few of the locals to give me a hand. Including her boyfriend.”

“So you did the project with Mitchell today?”

“Mitch - Pete? Yeah, why?”

“No reason. I just didn’t realize you knew him that well.”

“I don’t. He’s Penny’s boyfriend.”

It was at that moment that everything clicked into place for Beau. He remembered that Penny had a history with one of the pilots on base and that he’d heard all about the way the guy kept showing up and disappearing. He didn’t realize at that time that it was the same pilot he’d been cleaning up after.

“You look like the light bulb just went off,” she chuckled smugly, stacking boxes of tools near the doorway.

“It did, actually. Somehow I never put two and two together that your Penny was the Penny Benjamin of The Hard Deck, the one who had been involved off and on with Pete Mitchell, thorn in my side for twenty years,” he agreed.

“I didn’t realize that’s who that was, either.” Her eyes were wide with amusement as her hand covered her mouth, trying to suppress the giggles.

“If, uh, if you’re not busy tonight, would you like to have dinner? With me?” he blurted, unable to contain the urge to spend more time with her.

Her eyes met his and searched, her head tilted as she watched him. He kept eye contact, his gaze softening the longer he stared. He wouldn’t let her know that he’d all but stopped breathing while he waited for her answer, toes tapping the inside of his shoe to keep himself from fidgeting outwardly.

“Will you cook for me, Bobo?”

“Kitten, I’ll do anything you want.”

“There’s no girlfriend or wife to be worried about, is there?”

“Uh, no,” he chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. “There hasn’t been anyone serious since you.”

“For me, either,” she admitted as she closed the gap between them. “I never stopped loving you, missing you.”

“No one could ever compare to you. Kitten, will you give me another chance?”

“Will you chase me if I leave this time?”

“Baby, I will follow you to the ends of the earth, Navy court martial be damned.” He reached for her, his hand wrapping her waist and tugging her close. Before she could react, his lips were on hers, kissing her with the pent up longing and realization that came with age. In that moment, they were one again, a team, together against the world.

He vowed then and there that she’d never doubt the way he needed her, wanted her, ever again.

[imjessthemess-rec]

I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS!!!

[writercole]

Summary: Passion makes for great sex and harsh fights. And what happens when things start getting messy?

Squares: Free space @anyfandomkinkbingo

Words: 1863

Warnings: 18+ Minors DNI. Penetrative sex, fingering, sex in public, Billy Avalone

A/N: Okay this was the first one that I wrote for the collection and jfc is all I can say still.

Friends with benefits is a dangerous slope. It’s even worse when it’s enemies with malice and jealousy. Fritz and I had been bickering since we met in the Naval Academy. There was just something about him that made me bristle every time he spoke. Or looked at me. Or breathed in my vicinity.

Things came to a head after we were paired up for a project.

“Why are you pulling info on Fighter Weapons School?” I snapped from behind my shelf of naval history books.

“It’s part of Navy history,” he shrugged. “Besides, that’s where I’m going to end up so why not find out what I’m up against?”

“Because,” I growled, “you’re not helping me on the project that we are to be graded on as a team. I will refuse to put your insufferable name on it and I will refuse to share it with you.”

“Oh sweetheart,” he cooed as he stopped in front of me. “I have ways to make you cooperate.”

“Avalone, I will slap that smirk right off of your face if you don’t get out of my space.”

“Ooh, kitty has claws,” he smirked, stepping further into my space, caging me against the bookshelves. “Gonna be hard to slap me with your hands full. Let me help you with that.” Fritz took the stack of books from my arms and dropped them onto the floor, a loud thud echoing through our corner of the library.

“What are you doing?” I hissed as I slapped my hands on his chest in an attempt to reclaim my personal space. “We’re going to get kicked out of here.”

He didn’t budge. Instead, he gathered my hands in one of his and pinned them over my head, the backs of my wrists pressing against the cool metal of the shelves. He took a step forward, claiming any space between us and pressing his body into my own.

I suppressed a shiver when his breath ghosted across my cheek as he leaned in. The way my body responded surprised me. I was far from inexperienced but never before had a display of dominance sent a ripple through me and made my knees weak.

“We won’t get kicked out,” he whispered, his lips brushing my jaw and causing me to gasp. He chuckled, the vibrations passing through my chest. “I wonder what other sounds I can get from ya.”

His lips attached to my neck, just below the shell of my ear. I tilted my head to the side automatically and whimpered, hating the needy sound that escaped my throat. Fritz tightened his grip on my wrists as he free hand landed on my hip, squeezing gently.

“Tell me to stop or I won’t hold back,” he growled.

I was torn. Billy Avalone annoyed me to no end. But no man or woman had ever elicited this response from my body. “Don’t stop, Fritz,” I panted, “please. Don’t stop.”

He exhaled, tension falling slightly from his shoulders before he captured my lips with his, kissing me roughly, pulling himself closer, dropping my hands as he pressed against me. He shoved his knee between my thighs and kicked my feet apart, spreading my legs enough to get access.

His hands wandered down my sides following the waistline of my uniform, unbuckling my belt and slipping his fingers beneath my waistband, rubbing me over my panties. A deep groan rumbled in his chest when he found me soaked already.

“It gets you that hot when someone takes control?” he taunted as he teased my folds.

“Never,” I moaned with my head tilted back, bracing myself with my hands on his shoulders.

“You don’t have to lie to me,” he tutted, “I can feel it. Is this the first time someone’s taken control?”

“No.”

“Oh, then they didn’t do it right. Well, let me show you how good it can be when someone takes you apart piece by gorgeous fucking piece.”

That was it. I swear I could smell my brain short circuiting after his promise but I wasn’t sure with the way he slipped a finger inside of me and curled it along my walls, coaxing a low, drawn out moan from me.

“You are going to have to be quiet,” Fritz commanded. “If you can’t do that, I’ll have to give you something to stuff into your mouth.”

I felt my walls tighten around his finger and stretch when he added a second. A release hit me out of nowhere and my hand slapped over my mouth, whether out of respect for his orders or self-preservation because of the public location, I wasn’t sure.

“Such a good girl. Remembering to stay quiet while you soak my hand.”

I nodded my head as I panted, my hand still clamped down over my own mouth. Fritz didn’t change his pace but he shifted his palm, pressing the heel of his hand directly onto my clit and rocking back and forth, bringing me to the edge once again, my walls tightening around his two fingers before he pulled them out and stepped back, smirking as my slick glistened under the fluorescent lights.

I wrapped my hand around his wrist and pulled his fingers between my lips, keeping my gaze on his face as I licked and sucked them clean, delighting in the sharp intake of breath and the hard bob of his Adam’s apple. I released his wrist and allowed him to pull his fingers back, slowly, fighting the suction that kept pulling them in.

His fingertips exited my mouth with a lewd pop and he groaned, deep and rumbling from his chest, vibrating against me. I grinned at him and batted my eyelashes before pulling my bottom lip between my teeth. “Is that all, sir?” I cooed, my hands finding their way to the back of his neck.

“Not if you say it isn’t.”

My lips curled into a mischievous smirk as I dragged one hand down his chest and let my fingers brush the bulge in his pants. “I think that history can wait. Anatomy is much, much more interesting right now. Provided you have protection of course.”

“Me? Why is it always the guy’s job to have protection?” he scoffed, reaching back for his wallet despite his protestations.

“Because our prevention is oral and once a day, not every time,” I sassed, watching him rip open the foil packet as I dropped my pants and stepped out of one leg. “Besides, it’s not like I planned to be pinned against the bookshelves because you were being useless.”

“Useless?” he repeated, his eyebrows rising as his free hand gripped my jaw. “This is because you can’t keep your smart mouth shut. Maybe you’ll learn a lesson if I fuck you hard enough.

Releasing my jaw, he made quick work of freeing his cock and rolling the condom down his length. “Lift,” he said, tapping my legs.

I did as I was told, wrapping them around his waist and using the shelves as leverage as he lined up with my entrance and pressed the tip of his cock in slowly. My head tipped forward automatically, resting against his shoulder as he bottomed out.

He stilled, his hands gripping my ass as he struggled to control his breathing. “How do you want it?” he panted, his strained voice low in my ear.

“Hard and fast,” I replied as I turned my attention to his neck, nipping at the point where I could see his pulse jumping under his skin.

“Hold on.” He pulled out slowly before slamming back in, knocking the breath out of me as he set a steady, hard pace, the shelves at my back rattling in protest with every thrust.

“Close,” I whined, “so close.”

“Cum then, but be quiet,” he whispered between grunts.

I buried my face in his neck and let the release wash over me. My eyes squeezed shut and I shouted into Fritz’s skin, feeling my muscles tense up and then release, all of my weight falling onto him.

I could feel his arms begin to tremble and I lifted my mouth to his ear, letting my tongue trace a thin line along the path. “Don’t hold back, Billy. It feels so good to let go.”

He moaned and adjusted my hips, pounding into me harder and faster. He called my name as he spilled into the condom, quietly chanting in my ear. He braced one hand against the shelves and rested the other under my ass. “Good god,” he panted, his breathing shallow and labored. “If I had known that pissing you off ended this way, I’d have started sooner.”

“Like you haven’t been trying to piss me off since you met me,” I scoffed, hissing as he pulled his length out carefully and set me down.

“Maybe I’ll make sure we’re alone when I do it more.” He smirked as his eyes trailed up and down my frame while we righted our clothing.

That was three years ago now. We’d kept up the rivals with benefits thing since then, bickering publicly and ravishing one another behind closed doors.

The game made it fun. Teasing and poking at each other’s buttons around everyone else but in private, when it was just the two of us, we worshiped every inch of the other’s bodies, coaxing out prayers to gods neither of us believed in.

I won’t be coy, though. There were times the secrecy was difficult and jealousy fought its way to the forefront.

Like now.

Watching Fritz surrounded by girls laughing and giggling and touching him ignited a rage deep in my chest.

“You okay?” Fanboy asked tentatively.

“Fine.”

“You sure? You’re crushing that bottle.”

I looked down to find the plastic water bottle in my hand completely collapsed and deformed. Throwing it on the table, I stood and stalked away from the scene in the bar, ignoring my friend calling for me.

I made it out of the door before I allowed myself to breathe again, bending in half at the side of the road and taking heaving breaths. I knew what this was when we started it but somehow, my guard came down and now -

“You okay?” I heard from behind me. Squeezing my eyes shut, I willed the bile to stop rising in my throat. Why did he have to follow me?

“I’m fine, Fritz. Go back to your girls.”

“Look, I -”

“No, I knew what this was, we both did,” I interrupted. “It had to end eventually. Better now than when we’re in too deep. I’m fine. I’m good. Just go back inside.”

“Are you -”

“I SAID I’M FINE, AVALONE!” I stood up and whirled to face him, schooling the hurt out of my eyes and willing my face and my heart to cooperate when they saw the concern on his. “You have people waiting for you inside and I have somewhere to be.”

“Can I please finish -”

“I have to go. I have a date to get ready for.” I spun around and hurried home, refusing to turn around and see if he was affected by the first lie I’d ever told him.

[imjessthemess-rec]

WAIT. SHE CANT JUST LEAVE HIM LIKE THAT 😭😭

[never--doubt]

Diamond in the Rough- Part 2

Series Summary: After mourning the death of her husband, Dowager Baroness Y/N Marlowe decides she wants to remarry- for love this time. But when her three most prominent suitors just happen to be the three Bridgerton brothers...there's no telling how the season will go.

Chapter Summary: It's the night of Lady Danbury's ball, the first ball of the season. With Lady Danbury scheming and someone else joining her, how will the night start?

Pairing: ??? x Female!Reader

Words: ???

Warnings: reader is blunt, lots of scheming

Series Masterlist here!

Feedback fuels me!

Violet sighed, straightening Benedict’s jacket.

He groaned, knowing it was pointless to ask her to stop. He could still complain, though. “Why are you fussing over me, Mother? Anthony is the one who decided he was going to marry this season.”

“Anthony isn’t the one who arrives to dinners with paint and charcoal all over him,” Violet responded.

Colin chuckled beside his brother, making Benedict glare at his younger brother. “You’re next, Colin,” Violet stated.

“Damn,” Colin muttered.

“If she focuses on you three, do you think she’ll ignore me?” Eloise whispered to Anthony, a few feet away.

He glanced down at her, just shaking his head. She groaned in response, leaning on him.

The carriage pulled up, making Violet turn to her children. “Alright! This is the first ball of the season. Behave, children. Anthony, I have ladies to introduce you to. Benedict and Colin, I expect to see you dancing, actually dancing. Eloise- if you disappear, I will take away your books-Yes! I mean it. Now into the carriage!”

All four of the children sighed and did so, knowing it was pointless to argue.

“Tonight is going to be interesting,” Colin murmured.

“I think that is an understatement,” Anthony agreed.

Luke sighed, adjusting his cravat.

“It looks fine, darling,” Elizabeth commented, rolling her eyes with a smile, both of them across from you in the carriage.

“Remind me why we’re going to this ball again?” he asked.

“Because you’re a Baron and it’s the first ball of the season,” you stated.

“And Y/N is looking for a husband,” Elizabeth added.

He groaned. “All three are reasons I’m not sure I like.”

You laughed under your breath. “You won’t have to deal with any suitors of mine unless they decide, for some unknown reason, to go around me, Luke. And if they do, you have my permission to make them feel as bad as you’d like for doing so.”

“Wonderful. I can look forward to one thing this season.”

Elizabeth rolled her eyes, making you laugh again.

The Danbury estate came into view, and you smiled softly at the sight. Carriages were coming and going, torches lit, people moving inside the estate. As the carriage rolled to a stop near the entrance, you could hear music playing inside already, the excitement building in you at the sound.

The door opened to the carriage, and Luke stepped out, helping his wife then you, offering you each his arm. You took it willingly, letting him guide you inside. You passed the table with dance cards, taking one and having Elizabeth help slip it on your wrist. You all then continued on your way into the ballroom, making sure not to stand in awe at the extravagance.

Lady Danbury’s estate looked entirely different compared to the last time you had seen it; flowers and decorations lining the space. The rooms and halls were full, people dressed to the nines, just the way you remembered the social season being: Everyone flaunting themselves and their wealth, waving fans and showing themselves off, hoping for attention.

You hated it, that it was all that flaunting that became the normal. Because fortune and fame was all the ton focused on, you instead had to try and find love.

But you had to admit, the beauty of balls and society events was amazing.

Even with barely looking around the room, you could feel the stares on you, hear the whispers with your name. As you expected.

You exchanged a look with Elizabeth, no words needed between you both. This had been expected. Now you just had to wait for…

“Baron Marlowe, Lady and Lady Marlowe.”

You all looked over to see Lady Danbury approaching, a smirk on her lips. “Lady Danbury,” you all replied, bowing and curtsying.

“The ballroom is gorgeous, my lady,” Elizabeth stated. “I adore the theme as well, Cupid’s Arrows?

“Well thank you,” she said. “The first ball sets the tone for the rest of the season.”

Her words were specific, you knew. She hadn’t told you nor Elizabeth the theme she had decided on, but it fell too specific to not be a choice.

“It is wonderful to see you,” Luke stated, nodding to her.

She nodded back, before turning her gaze to you.

“Lady Y/N Marlowe,” she said slowly. “It has been too long.”

“It has, my lady,” you replied. “Thank you for the invitation, I cannot express my gratitude enough.”

“Well, when you expressed your interest in possibly finding a love match, I knew you would need invitations to only the best balls,” Lady Danbury stated. Her words were the normal tone for a conversation, but you both knew more than enough people were listening, and word would spread quickly. “I hope this helps you on your journey.”

“I know it will,” you replied, smiling.

She smiled back, holding out her arm. “Join me for a turn around the room, I must introduce you to a few individuals. You have been away for far too long.”

“I would be honored,” you muttered, taking her arm and letting her lead the way, ignoring the stares on you both as you whispered softly to the woman, “I think your plan is working.”

“More than, child,” she replied.

Violet smiled gratefully at the sight of Daphne and Simon approaching the rest of the family. “There you both are,” she muttered, squeezing her eldest daughter’s hands. “Surely you both can help me convince your brothers to dance this evening.”

Simon chuckled, exchanging a glance with Anthony. “All of them wish to dance?” he teased.

“Well I should hope Anthony will, especially since he has announces that he looking for a wife this season,” Violet stated, loud enough for those around them to hear.

Anthony groaned, glaring at his mother. “Must you?”

Violet just grinned, making the other two Bridgerton brothers laugh. Daphne, in contrast, looked around the room. “Who is that with Lady Danbury?” she asked softly.

Everyone glanced to the women, Violet gasping and smiling. “Oh, that is Lady Y/N Marlowe...I wasn’t sure if she would be invited tonight or not.”

“Dowager Baroness Marlowe?” Simon asked, glancing at Anthony, who nodded.

“She is...beautiful,” Benedict muttered.

“That she is,” Colin agreed.

Violet’s gaze snapped to her sons at the statements, while Daphne shared a smile with her husband. “And they’re making their way over now,” Eloise stated, her smile shifting to a smirk as Benedict and Colin both shifted.

“Ah, and here are,” Lady Danbury said, pulling you to a stop. “The Hastings and Bridgertons.”

You smiled at the group, dropping into a curtsy. “My Lords, Ladies, Graces.”

“It is so good to see you again, Lady Marlowe,” Violet Bridgerton said, smiling.

“It is good to be seen again,” you replied, glancing at Daphne. You had only ever seen Daphne Bridgerton in passing, but it was no secret that she was a kind soul, and you had wished she had been a friend during your time in the marriage games, and even more during hers. “You as well, I can hardly believe you’re married already.”

Daphne laughed, reaching out and squeezing your arm. “I can scarcely believe it as well. I missed you last season, though.”

“I am sad I missed your season as well,” you responded, glancing at her husband. “But you were very successful.”

“And I can only hope you will be this season,” Daphne commented, her hand brushing against your dance card. “Maybe my luck will rub off on you. Perhaps you should come over for tea this week, I would love to talk further without prying eyes.”

Your smile grew at her comment. “I would be honored.”

The Viscount cleared his throat then, and as you looked to him he asked, “So you are looking to remarry, then, Lady Marlowe?”

You nodded demurely. “I am, my Lord. While I’m grateful for my brother and sister for taking care of me, I wish to find love and a husband that will love me back.”

“Oh!” Violet gasped, her smile growing. “A love match, how exciting.”

“That is what we are hoping for,” Lady Danbury commented, her gaze turning to the three Bridgerton sons. “If only a gentleman would offer her a dance.”

“I cannot blame any of the men here for not doing so,” you responded, glancing over the three bachelors before looking to her. “It is intimidating, not only being the first ball of the season, but being in front of a woman who speaks her mind and knows what she wishes.”

Lady Danbury’s grin widened as Daphne, Eloise, Violet and Simon fought back laughter, the three Bridgerton men trying to hold back their shock. “Let us continue around the room then. Good day.”

The group nodded as the pair left, Violet turning and glaring at her sons. “That was a perfect opportunity to dance with a wonderful lady!” she hissed.

“We just got here,” Benedict replied, not wanting to be hit with her fan. “Can we not...look around the room first?”

“Benedict is right, there are plenty of women here to dance with,” Anthony stated. “All three of us do not have to dance with Lady Marlowe, Mother.”

“Well I think she was pleasant,” Eloise muttered. “She must be one of the most intelligent and brightest in the room if she’s with Lady Danbury.”

Colin hummed softly, his eyes trialing after Lady Danbury and Lady Y/N.

The dance music started then, and Simon turned to Daphne, holding out his hand with a soft smile on his lips. “Might I have this dance, your grace?”

She laughed, taking his hand. “You may, your grace.”

They left her family and moved to the dance floor, starting the motions. Simon could recognize the spark in her eyes, the scheming look she had that he had come to recognize after enough time with her now. “What are you thinking, my dear?” he asked.

“Benedict and Colin clearly were interested in Lady Y/N,” Daphne muttered, glancing at her and Lady Danbury. The pair were talking to another family, no gentlemen having touched or looking at her dance card. “No one wants to dance with her, yet.”

His wife’s words clicked in his mind immediately, and he responded, “Ah, I see. You want me to dance with her.”

Daphne’s smile grew, and she nodded. “I do. Would you be opposed?”

Simon smiled back, shaking his head. “Not in the slightest. I think that sounds like a wonderful plan.” The ton had whispered about them both coming back for the season, wondering if Daphne was already pregnant or would be soon, the only reason more eyes weren’t on them because of Lady Y/N or the diamond of the season.

If Simon could tip the scales, disrupt the ton yet again? He would jump at the chance.

You nodded politely to Lord and Lady Westwood, wondering how Lady Danbury was staying away as they spoke, and why she had introduced you to the couple. They seemed lovely, but you would do anything to move on from this conversation about cattle.

“I am sorry to interrupt.”

You all turned to face Duke Simon Hastings, Lord Westwood immediately bowing and stopping his sentence. “Your grace, you are not interrupting in the slightest,” he said.

“To what do we owe the honor?” Lady Danbury asked, smiling at the Duke.

He turned to you, smiling and holding out his hand. “I was wondering, Lady Marlowe, if I may have this dance.”

You smiled and rested your hand in his, grateful for the rescue. “You may, your grace.”

As he lead you to the dance, which was just beginning, you muttered, “Why do I suspect someone put you up to this?”

He chuckled, turning towards you. “Because someone did,” he answered. “My wife asked me to dance with you.”

“Really?” you clarified, unable to stop yourself from glancing at her as you both started to dance, the steps familiar and easy as you moved around each other. “Whatever for?”

“Daphne thinks that everyone seeing you dance with me will catch their attentions,” he stated softly, just quiet enough for no one else to hear. “And possible snap her brothers out of their stupors.”

“Well, if this one dance gets even one of her brothers to ask me to dance, I will owe you a bottle of scotch and her a bouquet of flowers,” you replied.

“You have a deal, my lady.”

You laughed, letting yourself smile as he spun you, not caring as everyone in the room watched you; they could continue to do so for all you cared. This was fun, the most fun you were having all evening, and part of you wasn’t sure if the ball would be any fun after this, so you were going to enjoy it.

To Violet and Daphne’s surprise, as Y/N and Simon danced not only did most of the room watch, but all three of the Bridgerton brothers stared intently.

Lady Danbury made her way to the Bridgerton matriarch and the duchess, smirking at them both. “I though I was the scheming one,” she muttered to them.

Violet and Daphne exchanged a smile, Daphne just smiling. “I don’t know what you’re speaking of, Lady Danbury.”

The elder woman just chuckled, glancing at the three brothers before leaning in closer to the ladies. “Do you think this will push them?”

Violet glanced at her sons, muttering, “I hope so.”

Benedict scoffed under his brother. “Why did Simon ask her to dance? I was just about to.”

Colin laughed. “I refuse to believe that. You were staring but had yet to move.”

“Both of you were merely staring, and probably would have all night,” Anthony muttered, glaring at them both.

“And why do you care?” Benedict shot back. “It seems as if you didn’t care for Lady Marlowe, brother.”

Colin commented, “He doesn’t care for any lady,” making Anthony roll his eyes.

“Just because I have requirements for my wife doesn’t mean I don’t like ladies,” he responded sharply.

Benedict and Colin both rolled their eyes at his statement, making Anthony adjust his jacket.

The song ended, Simon bowing to Y/N as she curtsied. With smiles on their faced, he escorted her off the floor towards the rest of the group, meeting his wife’s gaze. They had barely gotten close enough when Colin stepped forward with a hand out, asking, “Lady Marlowe, might I have your next dance?”

Benedict shoved his younger brother slightly as he stepped to meet him, bowing slightly, “And might I ask for the dance after that, my lady?”

Y/N bit her lips, glancing at Simon before smiling at the two. “I would be delighted, sirs.” She set her hand in Colin’s, letting him guide her back onto the dance floor.

Simon stepped back to his wife’s side, Daphne leaning towards him. “What was that smile for?” she asked.

“Because your brothers are dancing with Lady Marlowe, she has promised to bring over scotch for me and flowers for you when you invite her for tea,” he replied, making Daphne laugh.

Violet nudged her daughter. “Stop laughing and look at your brother.”

Feedback fuels me!

I do not use a tag list anymore, due to tumblr's new posting system.

[imjessthemess-rec]

[roosterforme]

Brighter Than a Supernova | Bob Floyd x Phoenix's Little Sister

Summary: Bob planned to simply stop by Phoenix's Hanukkah party for a few minutes before heading back home. He'd hang out with the guys for a bit, even though he never quite felt like he fit in with them, and he'd meet the little sister Phoenix often referred to as annoying. But he had no idea how bright and magical one night could be compared to every other night that had come before.

Warnings: Fluff, swearing, feeling insecure, loss of virginity, smut, drinking

Length: 9000 words

Pairing: Robert "Bob" Floyd x Phoenix's Little Sister (OC)

This was written for the Winter RomCom Challenge hosted by @bellaireland1981! Check my masterlist for more. Beautiful banner made by @ryebecca

"Bob, you're coming over tomorrow night, right?"

When he turned to look at his friend, Bob couldn't help the feeling of apprehension that washed over him. "I think so."

Natasha sighed and reached for his hand and gave him a little squeeze. He hadn't been at Top Gun as long as everyone else, and he felt like he didn't really fit in with them. Even now, the other guys were all hooting and playing keep away with Reuben's phone while Bob stood off to the side on the tarmac. 

"There's nothing to be nervous about. It's just a Hanukkah party," she whispered with a smile. She always seemed to be able to tell when he got lost in his own thoughts, and he would be forever grateful that she was the pilot he got to fly with. 

He shook his head and looked over at their Super Hornet. "I've never been to one before," he muttered. "And I'll probably just end up sitting quietly all night."

Now Natasha was squeezing both of his hands. "But we already drew names for our gift exchange. And you won't be the only one newer to the group. My obnoxious little sister, Nova, is coming in from New York, remember? She's graduating from college in the spring? She hasn't met any of the guys yet."

"But-"

"Bob, I really want you to come," she said firmly, looking up at him with her dark brown eyes. He trusted her in the air, he might as well trust her on the ground, too. 

"Okay. I'll be there."

But when Bob parked his truck in front of Phoenix's tiny house on Saturday evening, his hands were shaking slightly as he held the wrapped gift. He absolutely hated that he got this way around the guys. They hadn't done anything to make him feel this way, really. He just generally didn't fit in anywhere, something he was very aware of at age twenty eight. But he would do this for Natasha. 

He climbed out of his truck with the gift and a bottle of wine and walked up to the front door. Should he knock? Or just walk inside? It sounded noisy even out here, so after he tapped on the door a few times and nobody opened it, he just let himself in.

"Bob's here!" Jake called out from the couch, waving him over to where he was drinking a beer while Javy tried to spin two dreidels at the same time.  

"Bob!" Natasha practically shouted as she ran his way. He had to juggle the bottle of wine so he didn't drop it. "Can you help me make latkes? Nova and I have been peeling potatoes for what feels like hours, and now we're heating up the oil."

"I don't know how to make latkes," he told her, but his eyes caught on the woman standing in the kitchen laughing at Bradley. He could only see her profile, but she had long, dark brown hair just like Natasha. Only she was a little taller and a bit curvier, and when she turned to look over her shoulder, he wanted to run and hide. 

"It's easy, Bob. It's just a potato pancake. Nothing scary," Natasha whispered, trying to sound reassuring. "Come meet Nova, and you can help us cook."

He swallowed hard, realizing that the brunette goddess holding a potato peeler in one while she smiled directly at him was Natasha's little sister. The one she always referred to as obnoxious and annoying. This was... decidedly not what he had imagined. 

Bob didn't know where to look. Every part of her was so pretty. She was wearing black leggings and a cropped long sleeve shirt that was purple and said NYU on the front. He could see some of the soft looking skin just above her leggings, and his eyes dropped to the floor in embarrassment. She was barefoot with neon orange painted toenails that for some reason made Bob a little short of breath.

"Bob, this is my sister Nova," Nat told him, rubbing his back gently as his gaze wandered back up along her curves. His eyes landed on her face as Natasha said, "Nova, this is Bob. Please don't annoy him."

"Hi," she said with a little smirk on her face. She tossed her hair over her shoulder and reached her hand out to him. "I've heard a lot about you, Bob."

He was terrified that he would stutter or trip over his words, but he just said something stupid instead. "You don't look annoying."

She laughed as she shook his hand. "Oh, I can assure you, I am." Her eyes were the same color as her sister's, but they were looking at him playfully as she nibbled on her lip. It was easy to tell Nova and Natasha were sisters, but there were some differences, too. Bob had the fleeting thought that he wouldn't mind just looking at her all night until he identified them all. 

"Feel free to ignore her," Nat told him as she went to stand in front of the stove. "I usually do."

"I don't see how that would be possible," Bob murmured, and Nova laughed again before he realized what he'd said. He could feel his cheeks flush as he tried to look at anything besides her, but as soon as he did, Bradley dove for her attention. 

"So tell me all about New York CIty," he said as if he'd never heard of it before. This was fine though. Better even. Nova and Bradley could just flirt all night, and Bob could help cook and then probably leave soon. That way everyone would win. 

After a few minutes, he desperately wanted to ask Natasha if they could cook any faster so he could open his impersonal gift from one of the guys and get going. But he found that making latkes was actually pretty enjoyable. 

"That's too much egg," she told him, laughing at his messy hands as his glasses slid down his nose. "You need more flour." But her hands were a mess, too, and Bob was trying to adjust his glasses on his shoulder. 

When he turned to the side, he saw Bradley, Mickey and Jake all talking to Nova, but she was actually looking right at him as he very awkwardly shrugged his shoulder against his glasses. "I got you, Bob," she said, closing the distance to him and helping him out. She adjusted his frames on his face, and then she ran her fingers along his hair and behind his ears. "Better?"

He watched her pull her hands away and wished she wouldn't. "Yes," he whispered. "Thank you." Then he just stared at her as she made no move to back away. 

"You're welcome. Do you celebrate Hanukkah?"

He swallowed hard as he washed his hands and shook his head. "This is my... first time."

Her eyes lit up. "Oh! Perfect! You can help me light the candles, and I can teach you the prayers."

"Might as well light the menorah now," Natasha told her as she flipped some of the squishy looking potato blobs over in the hot oil. The kitchen smelled like fried food, and there was a huge box of donuts that the other guys already got into. Javy brought the dreidels into the kitchen, and he was currently spinning five at one time. This holiday actually didn't seem so bad. Especially when Nova reached for his hand. 

"Gather around," she announced with the kind of confidence Bob would never have, and all the guys followed her to the other side of the island. But she kept Bob right there with her and smiled up at him. "Here you go," she said, handing him the lighter. Then she stuck some candles in the menorah. 

"Don't you light them from left to right?" Bradley asked as he sipped a beer and ate a jelly donut while glaring at Bob.

"Yes!" she replied as she put the last candle in for the eighth night. 

"You want me to light them for you, Bob?" Bradley asked, and Bob was just about to hand the lighter over when Nova reached for his hand.

"I'm going to say a really pretty prayer in Hebrew about how Hanukkah is a time to celebrate miracles," she told him, seemingly ignoring the rest of the guys as Jake started whining that he was hungry. But Bob was transfixed. He was suddenly dying to hear this prayer. He could see the light smattering of freckles on Nova's cheeks as he stood this close to her. He never noticed before if Nat had freckles.

It would be a Hanukkah miracle if Bob could get through the evening. When she told him to light the center candle and then pick it up, he did. And then her hand joined his as they lit the candles together, but Bob wasn't looking at the menorah. He was looking at her face and the way her lips moved as she almost sang the prayer. Then he kept his hand on hers as long as he could, the warm candlelight making her face glow. 

When she dropped her hand to her side, Bob could feel her fingers kind of tangle with his, and he had no idea what to do about it. He was suddenly painfully aware that he'd never had a girlfriend before, and he almost wished she was paying this much attention to someone else. 

"Latkes are done!" Natasha announced, and Bob took a step away from Nova. He cleared his throat and then turned to leave the kitchen as everyone else made a dash for the food. When he retreated for the relative quiet of the powder room, he could feel dark eyes on his back.

Bob realized he'd been in the bathroom for long enough that someone might think he was sick, but he couldn't stop splashing cool water on his face. He had been prepared for something else tonight, but not this. Maybe Nova was just an annoying little sister to Phoenix, but to him, she was exquisite. He needed to leave now before he could embarrass himself more. 

After he dried his hands, he quietly opened the door, but then he paused. He could hear voices. Two female voices, and he could easily tell them apart as he stood there eavesdropping.

"Natasha, you lied to me," Nova whispered loudly. "You said Bob was kind of nerdy!"

Oh no. She must have thought Bob was extremely nerdy. Perhaps he could make a run for the front door, and maybe nobody would notice he'd gone.

"I mean, he is," Natasha replied softly. 

"No, he's not!" Nova hissed. "He's hot! You know I have a thing for glasses and biceps, you rotten liar!"

Now Bob was frozen in place. He was pretty sure they were talking about him, but there was a chance he misheard.

"Nova," Natasha snapped a little louder this time. "Bob is one of my best friends, and he's very kind. Do not toy with him."

There was a pause, but then Bob heard her soft response. "I wouldn't. You can tell how sweet he is from a mile away."

He looked in the mirror one more time before leaving the powder room. It wasn't that he was bad looking, it was just that he was awkward. Compared to the other guys, he was a joke. Maybe Nova somehow hadn't noticed that yet. He forced himself out to the small hallway where the two sisters were standing close together near the kitchen, and the way Nova looked at him just didn't make sense. 

"Grab some latkes," she said as he walked past. "I'll save you a spot on the couch for the gift exchange?"

Bob swallowed hard. "Sure. Thank you."

When he ducked into the kitchen, he heard her whisper to Nat, "He has nice manners, too."

Nat groaned. "I can't believe you have a crush on my WSO."

"Yeah, well, you shouldn't have kept this information from me."

Bob was anxiously piling a plate with more latkes than he could probably finish when Nova flounced into the room, picked up her half empty glass of wine along with an unused one and winked at him. "I'll be in the living room, and I have a glass for you," she said.

He looked down at the potato concoctions on his plate, and they looked good. He tried a bite, and it was delicious, but he'd lost his appetite. Nova Trace had a crush on him, and now he had to go sit with her and drink some wine without looking like a moron. 

After a few more bites, he pushed his plate aside and headed to the living room where she was sitting right next to Bradley. He had his arm draped across the back of the couch a little possessively, and Bob froze, blinking at the scene before him. He had the undeniable urge to remove Bradley's arm and wrap her up with own. 

"Bob," she called, scooting away from Bradley and patting the cushion. Once he squeezed in between her and Bradley, he realized he was touching her no matter what he did. And then she took his arm and draped it around her shoulders, leaning back against his chest a little bit. "It's a tight fit," she said, handing him a glass of wine. 

"Seriously?" Bradley grumbled, crossing his arms over his chest and shaking his head. Bob wasn't sure what to say as he had an armful of the cute girl who was in demand. This was all new to him. So he just drank all of his wine and pretended to watch everyone open their gifts. 

When he set his empty glass down on the table, Nat handed him a small box wrapped in silver paper. He didn't recognize the pretty handwriting that said To: Bob.

"Oh," Nova whispered, reaching for it. "You don't have to open it."

"It's from you?" Bob asked, and she looked up at him over her shoulder, face just inches from his.

"Yeah, but it just seems kind of dumb now," she muttered, playing with the hem of her top. "Nat made it seem like you were super nerdy or something," she laughed. "And clearly that's not the case. You're hot."

Bob chuckled; this whole entire night was completely absurd. "I've never been called hot before."

Nova rolled her eyes. "You know what? Just go ahead and open your present," she said, shoving the small box closer to his chest while she blushed. 

Bob started to carefully tear into the paper when Bradley leaned across Bob and asked, "I'm sorry, Nova, but did you just call Bob hot?"

"Yes," she replied immediately. 

Bradley stood and grunted while he put on the hat that Javy just gave him that said 100% Certified Fuckboy. "She picked Bob. Nice work man," he said, patting Bob's shoulder. "Who needs a beer?"

"I do," Nat told him as she eyed Bob and Nova together on the couch with curiosity. Bob wasn't sure what he should even say to her. It wasn't like he was going to date her sister or something. She lived in New York.

"Open it," Nova whispered. "Just open it so I can get my embarrassment over with."

Bob couldn't believe she seemed more embarrassed about the gift than she did about announcing to the room at large that she found him attractive. When he took the lid off the box and looked inside, it was filled with a set of sky blue dice. 

"I'm sorry," she said with a laugh. "Nat said you play Dungeons and Dragons, and I found the dice and thought they were pretty, and now I'm noticing that they're kind of the same shade as your eyes." She took the box from him, put the lid on and set it aside.

"Wait," he said, reaching across her to pick it up again. "I do play. And light blue is my favorite color. How did you know?"

"I didn't," she said, cheeks pink. "It's my favorite color, too."

He could see her freckles again as she grinned so close to him. Bob suddenly realized that the living room was getting loud as he held the box between his body and hers. "Thank you. I really like them. I was a little afraid to see what the guys were going to buy for me, so I'm glad it was from you."

"Nat dropped down on the couch on the other side of Bob as she spun the keychain around her finger that Bob got for her. "Thank you," she said, kissing him on the cheek as the airplane charm hit her palm. The guys were spinning as many dreidels on the coffee table as they could while fighting over the mound of chocolate candy coins. "You know, if it's a little too loud, you could always step outside for a minute," she told him, patting his thigh before joining the guys. 

"Let's take a break," Nova said as she stood and pulled him to his feet. Bob felt like Nat had just given him some sort of permission. But for what? "I could use a break as well. It's hot in here." 

She opened the front door and slipped out into the darkness on the small porch, and Bob joined her, closing the door and stifling the sounds inside. "Aren't your feet going to get cold?" he asked softly, looking down at her neon toenails.

"Good call," she replied before wrapping her arms around his neck and standing on the tops of his shoes. Bob's hands went to the soft curve of her waist immediately, startled by the sudden turn of events that had Nova's body pressed to his. "Is this okay?" she asked casually, looking up at him as she let her fingers trail down his neck.

His body was throbbing in delight as his brain cried out in terror. "Y-Yes. It's... very okay. You're very pretty." His eyes went wide as she laughed, and it sounded too intimate this close. He could feel her bare skin against his fingertips, and it was so soft. Softer than anything. He couldn't help the way he let his palms spread out on her back, as he blurted out, "I like you."

He noticed her soft smile first, and then her eyes closed. Bob was admiring how her eyelashes brushed her cheeks as she said, "I like you, too." And then she kissed him. She just kissed him. It was suddenly time for kissing. And then it was over before Bob really got to enjoy it. Nova was looking up at him like she was trying to gauge his reaction, but he just stood there trying to figure out what to do next. 

Her fingers stilled on his neck before she released him and tried to step away, her face falling into a much shyer look. But he kept his hands on her back. Her lips were softly parted, and Bob wanted them on his again. Even though he wasn't quite sure if he was doing any of it right, he leaned down and pressed his lips against hers a little too hard at first. 

She moaned softly as she brought her hands back up around his neck, and Bob eased himself back a little bit, making the kiss softer. This felt good. She had smooth skin and eager lips, and now her fingers were in his hair as her cheek bumped his glasses. He felt like he was getting the hang of things when she parted her lips and tasted his tongue. 

Bob's hands slid down to grab at her hips through her leggings, and Nova laughed softly as she tasted him again. The soft vibrations against his lips had him more aware of his body than he ever had been before, but not in a bad way. He seemed to be making her feel excited as she wiggled her curvy hips back and forth slightly in his hands. 

Nova broke the kiss and raked her fingers along his forehead and back through his tidy hair. "You smell good," she told him, leaning in close again and running her nose along his neck. "Like... something outdoorsy mixed with a fried potato."

He couldn't help but laugh as she kissed the spot next to his Adam's apple. "That sounds like it would smell bad."

"It doesn't," she reassured him with a giggle. "It just makes me want to taste you." Bob had to press his lips together and count to ten in his head as Nova ran her tongue in a slow and steady stripe up his neck to his ear. When her lips met his earlobe, his hands on her hips were pulling her body closer to his as she said, "I could eat you up."

She was still standing on the tops of his feet, but now Bob had her back pressed against the doorframe. They were making out, and it was all coming pretty naturally for him. She kissed his neck and told him something sweet, so he decided to go ahead and try the same thing. "I think I love kissing you," he said, his voice raspier than normal as she tipped her head back.

Nova was moaning his name as he kissed the front of her neck, and she pressed her thigh against him. And oh no... Bob had an erection. She didn't seem bothered, but he pulled himself a few inches away from her and looked down at her pretty face. "Do you want to go back inside?" she asked, her chest rising and falling as she caught her breath. 

"Should we?" he asked softly, sliding his hands back up to her waist as she shrugged. 

"Probably. But I'm sure they all know exactly what we're doing out here."

His eyes went wide. "They do?"

She smiled and ran her fingers along his cheek. "Yeah, I'd venture to guess they know we were making out, Bob."

How was he supposed to go back inside now? He thought about just leaving; his truck was parked right there on the street. But he didn't want to go without his new dice. Or Nova.

He cleared his throat. "Yeah... maybe we should go back in."

"Okay." But first she wrapped her fingers around the back of his neck and pressed one more soft kiss to his lips. "Just let me know if you want to take another break, because I'd be more than happy to tag along."

Then she opened the door, and the bright light and loud laughter coming from inside were enough to have him reaching for Nova's hand as she stepped down from his feet and onto the living room floor. She looked back at him with a coy smile as she laced her fingers with his. It was so obvious that they had been kissing. Bob knew he was blushing, and her lips looked a little puffy from the way he'd been enjoying them. When Jake fist bumped him as they walked past, Javy winked, and Bradley was on the couch with Nat pouting. 

But Nat smiled and shook her head as Nova led Bob into the kitchen. "Want some more wine?" she asked, pulling a bottle from the refrigerator. There was something about the way she looked in the semi darkness as the candles from the menorah burned low. Her face was cast in warm light as well as shadows, and Bob found that leaning down to kiss her again was the most natural thing in the world. 

The cold bottle was pressed to his arm, and she kissed him back. When Bob opened his eyes again, his glasses were crooked and two of the candles had burned out. The kitchen was even darker now as she pecked his cheek and then strolled out into the living room. He took a few seconds to consider that now he'd initiated more kisses than she had. The desire to follow her and kiss her again was so strong, he almost tripped when he thought about her going back to New York. Had he ever felt this way about a girl after a few hours? No. Absolutely not.

He knew he should have found another place to sit in Nat's tiny, loud living room, but when he saw the spot on the couch next to Nova was empty, he couldn't force his steps in any other direction. She tracked him with her eyes, clearly feeling no shame about what was happening here. 

"How much have the rest of you had to drink?" she asked the guys. Jake was laying on the floor laughing while Javy tried to spin a dreidel on his nose. Bradley's cheeks were bright red, and he was half asleep at the other end of the couch. Mickey actually was asleep in the armchair. The only one who looked okay was Reuben. 

"A lot," Javy said. "We turned dreidels into a drinking game, and clearly Nat is better than the rest of us." Nat winked at Nova who winked back. "And Mickey can't hold his liquor for shit."

Nova laughed at him in the armchair. "Is that a WSO thing, Bob? Or can you handle another glass of wine?" she teased. 

"I can handle what you give me," he replied before he could consider how that might sound. She gasped softly and kind of nodded as she poured some more into his glass from earlier. 

"I guess we'll find out."

She tapped her glass to his, and they joined in the game with the others. Bob had never played before, but he was a quick study. It certainly didn't hurt that Nova kept touching his hands as she taught him what to do. And two glasses of wine later, Bob felt lighter and more carefree. His right hand was resting on her lower back, and she leaned in to his side as the game progressed. And the best part was, Nat seemed more than okay with this.

In fact, as midnight was fast approaching, Nat stood and stretched. "I'm beat. I don't care who stays over, but Nova is in the extra bedroom, so the rest of you can fight over the couches."

Bradley and Mickey both snored in response while Reuben started to gather Jake and Javy off the floor. "I'll drop the two of you off," he said. "It was nice to meet you, Nova. Thanks, Nat."

"Thanks, Nat," Javy and Jake echoed as Nat waved. Nova blew them each a kiss. 

Once they were gone, Nat started to gather up the empty wine bottles to take them into the kitchen, and Bob figured he should get ready to go as well. "Do you need help with anything?" he asked his friend, but she just waved him off. "No, I insist," he added.

He picked up some more of the trash the guys left, and as soon as he and Nova both stood, Bradley stretched out on the couch. "Just leave the rest of the mess. It's honestly fine. We can clean it up tomorrow," Nat said as she looked at her sister. 

Nova nodded. "Yeah, I'll help you clean everything when we wake up." 

They carried the trash they had already gathered in their arms to the kitchen, and then Nat hugged her sister before kissing Bob's cheek. "I'm assuming I'll see you again quite soon," she told him with an amused expression before she headed for the stairs. 

Bob wasn't sure exactly what that was supposed to mean, but he wasn't going to dwell on it. Right now he had to figure out a way to say goodbye to the woman in front of him. He wondered if there was some way he could tell her that the few hours he spent with her somehow meant something to him. If she lived in San Diego, he thought he would very much like to take her to dinner. Maybe he could figure out a way to say so without completely ruining the moments they'd shared tonight.

"Nova, I-"

It was time for more kissing. She didn't hesitate at all, almost like she felt as comfortable with this as he did. Her hand found the bottom of Bob's tee shirt and eased the fabric up so her palm could rest flat on his abs. She nibbled gently on his lip before she let him taste her tongue. She was sweet like wine. Then his hands were back on her hips again as she eased his shirt up a little further. 

"You had a lot to drink," she whispered with a wink, rubbing the tip of her nose against his. "Maybe you should come upstairs with me?" Bob wasn't drunk in the least, and he thought he knew what she meant. When his posture stiffened, she looked up at him. "It's just a twin bed, but we can both fit. If you want."

"You mean to... sleep?" he asked, embarrassed that he had to confirm instead of just knowing how to do things. 

Her hand glided down to the top of his jeans, and she laughed softly. "We don't have to mess around," she said as she kissed his lips softly. "But I don't think I can keep my lips away from yours."

When Bob nodded in agreement, heart pounding rapidly, she took him by the hand. Mickey and Bradley were both sound asleep in the living room where Bob made sure to grab his box of dice. Then he let Nova lead him upstairs. 

She looked back to smile at him a few times and tugged on his hand when he started to fall behind. Once they were in the extra bedroom with the soft lamplight and the door closed, Nova seemed a little more hesitant.

"Well, there's the twin bed," she said, gesturing toward it before putting her hands on her hips. Then she crossed her arms over her chest and laughed as she looked at the floor. "And I mean, obviously this was all a ploy to get to spend more time with you. But also, I don't think you should drive home after drinking so much wine." She paused before adding, "But mostly I just kind of thought maybe you and I could keep talking and making out."

Bob smiled when she looked up at him. "Yeah, I would like that."

She bit her lip, and Bob swore he had never in his life seen a woman who was so eager to be around him. He toed off his shoes before reaching for her hand again. And then he decided he was going to go for it. He was going to say what was on his mind as they both sat down on the edge of the bed together. 

"Hey, Nova? I..." he paused as he looked at her pretty face, and he had to clear his throat before he kept going. "You're really... I like you a lot, and I just wanted you to know that if you lived in San Diego, I would ask you on a date."

She scooted a little closer and let her hand come to rest on his thigh. "Where would you take me?" she asked, pressing her lips to his jaw as he stuttered.

"I would... I'd take you to um, a restaurant that I like called Starlite. It's in the city. It's really pretty inside at night, and they have fairy lights and champagne. And I think you'd look beautiful sitting at one of the tables with me."

"Oh my god," she moaned against his jaw, and Bob had absolutely no control over how his body was reacting to her. "Tell me more."

He tried to keep talking as she moved her hand further up his thigh, but he wasn't sure he was making sense. "I'd get you whatever you wanted, of course. But the steak is really good, so I'd ask if you wanted that. And. And I'd be hoping the waiter was really slow, because you'd look so pretty with the soft lights all around you. I'd want to keep you there with me as long as I could."

"I want to go," Nova whispered, kissing his ear. "I can practically picture it."

Bob closed his eyes, willing his cock to stop having a mind of its own as her fingers went as high as the bottoms of his boxer briefs. If she kept this up, Bob would have to excuse himself, and he really didn't want to leave her right now. Then she straddled his thighs and wrapped her arms around his neck, and Bob's arms were full of her. 

"I wish we could," he whispered, unsure what to do with his hands. "I'd take you there tomorrow, but Nat told me you're flying back east in the evening." He finally let his hands settle on her waist as she nodded sadly. 

"I am," she said as her lips brushed his. "But just humor me. Would you kiss me at Starlite?"

"I'd have to," he replied immediately. "It would be mandatory. All the light and shadows on your face... you'd be ethereal. And if you were looking at me, I wouldn't be able to help myself."

"Bob," she moaned against his lips, nibbling on him softly as her fingers went to his hair. "And where would you take me for our second date?"

He laughed as she licked his tongue. "You'd go out with me a second time?"

"You're joking right?" Nova asked, pulling back a few inches as she played with his hair. "This is all hypothetical, and it's still the best date I've ever been on."

"Okay," Bob replied, and he couldn't help but smile as she nodded for him to go on. "For our second date, I'd take you to the Mission Hills Rooftop Theater."

"What would we watch?" she asked, smiling as Bob let his hands drift up a little bit under her shirt. 

He shrugged. "Probably a foreign film. You'd think it was cool, but I'd just be watching the way the colorful lights flickered across your face."

She squeaked softly. "Can we pretend we're at the theater now?"

"Sure," he whispered with a smile. "We're at the theater. You look beautiful, reading all the subtitles. But I lost track of the plot of the film already."

"Why's that?" she asked with a grin.

"Can't pay attention to anything except you."

She pushed on his chest until he was laying on his back, her long hair brushing the side of his face as she leaned down to kiss him. She was rubbing herself against his hard length through his jeans and making little sounds that he'd never heard before. His hands were stroking higher, and he could feel her bra with his fingertips. He didn't want any of this to stop.

"Now you seem like a respectable guy, Bob," she murmured. "Would you take me home with you after our second date or make me wait until our third?"

Oh no. Bob loosened his grip on her as he went silent. Nova was still kissing her way across his cheek to his ear when her movements slowed. She eyed him curiously before nudging the rim of his glasses with her nose. 

"Bob?"

He swallowed hard and closed his eyes. "I don't know. I've never... taken a girl home before."

She looked down at him with a soft smile on her lips. "What?" she asked as she pushed her fingers back through his hair. 

Bob was terrified that she would stop touching him as soon as he said the words. She was so lovely, gravitating right to him all night just the same way he subconsciously felt like he wanted to be near her. He already recognized that he could fall for his friend's little sister. Maybe he already had. 

He took a deep breath as he adjusted his glasses. She was waiting for him to respond, and there was no point in lying about it now. "I'm a virgin."

Nova's brow creased, and her lips parted wordlessly. She examined his face, probably trying to see if he was lying, because there's no way someone his age shouldn't have lost his virginity by now. And it was a million times worse for a guy than for a girl. He knew that. It was all so very embarrassing. 

She didn't laugh, rather she kissed the corner of his lips and simply asked, "How?"

Bob shrugged. "I'm awkward."

"No. You're hot," she replied, shaking her head. "That's not it."

He tried to turn his head and look away, but she followed his gaze until he returned her soft smile. "I'm not really sure," he whispered. "I got close a few times, but it just didn't seem right. That sounds dumb."

"No, it doesn't," she replied, surprising Bob as she kissed him again. "Are you picky?" she asked between each soft press of her lips to his.

"Yeah. Kind of," he told her honestly. "Always have been. Picky about who I spend time with.

She brushed her finger back through his hair again, and Bob melted at her touch. "That makes sense. A guy like you should be picky."

Somehow Nova was making him feel a lot more normal about this as she wasn't shying away from him. "Picky," he confirmed. "And the timing was never right."

"That's important," she said with a smile. "You have to do what feels good to you."

Bob swallowed hard. He was picky, but he really liked Nova. And for some reason, tonight out of all nights kind of felt right. He could easily blame Nat's Hanukkah party and the soft glow of the menorah candles on Nova's face for getting him to this point. She was on top of him, still kissing him, and he didn't want this to end. 

"This feels good to me," he blurted out, reaching up to push his fingers through her dark hair. "Tonight feels right."

She nodded, smiling as she crawled off of him, leaving Bob a little cold as he missed the feeling of her immediately. He sat up on the bed as she crawled up to the pillows and whispered, "Come here." She coaxed him along until she was laying on the pillows and he was on top of her, bracing himself with his arms so he didn't hurt her. 

"Okay, so, we already went to Starlite for dinner and then to the Mission Hills Rooftop Theater. I'll give you until our third date to make your move," she whispered, grinning up at him as she ran he hands up his biceps. "Where are you taking me?"

He took a deep breath; now was not the time for this wave of confidence to falter. "Cliffs beach. I'm packing a picnic, and we can sit in the bed of my truck and watch the sunset while we eat."

Nova moaned again and hooked her leg around Bob's thigh, pulling him impossibly closer. "Dinner was perfect. But now that the sun went down, I'm a little chilly."

"Well, I could keep you warm." He kissed her. "I'd hold you as I tried to work up the nerve to ask you if you wanted to come back to my place."

"I'm wrapped up in your arms, patiently waiting for you to ask," she replied with a smirk.

He nodded, and he knew he was blushing. This whole thing was kind of silly, but it just made sense. "I really like you. I could probably fall for you. If I let myself," he whispered, and she whimpered softly. "Do you want to come back to my place, Nova?"

"Absolutely."

Her hands were all over his face and in his hair, and eventually she took his glasses off and set them on the nightstand. She kissed him slowly as she rolled her hips up against his, and Bob blushed as he got hard again. When she carefully pulled his shirt off, she set it next to the pillow, and then she explored his body with her hands. But as soon as she pulled her own NYU shirt off and was laying beneath him, she arched her back. 

Bob reached beneath her, and he fumbled for a few seconds before he unhooked her bra. As he pulled the black lace away from her body and looked down at her breasts and her confident face, he marked this as the furthest he'd ever gone with a woman. She seemed to sense he needed a moment as she ran her fingers through his hair as he stuttered, "You're gorgeous."

Nova looked up at him with her playful dark eyes, but right now they seemed a little more serious. "I could probably fall for you, too."

Then his lips were on hers, and his hands went to her breasts gently stroking each soft handful. He could fall for this, he was sure of it. He wanted to take her on all of those dates, and he would have if he could have. He was charmed by her, and she seemed equally interested in him. 

"Bob," she moaned, breaking the kiss and tipping her head back as he pushed himself against her core. He brought his lips down to taste her breasts, and soon she was rolling her hips a little faster. "That feels good," she whispered as she looked up at him. "I like that."

Nova responded just like that to everything he did. When he kissed the side of her neck, she blushed a pretty shade of pink. She shivered for him when he ran his fingers down her side. When he paused with his hand just above the top of her leggings, she whispered, "Bob, you're making me kind of crazy."

She guided his hand down a few more inches with her own, but she didn't get annoyed when he took his time pulling her leggings and underwear off. His heart was pounding as he looked at her, completely naked. Maybe she could sense his hesitation, because she sat up, too, wrapping her arms around his neck. "I'll tell you if I don't like something, okay? And you do the same?"

He nodded. "I like everything so far. I just don't want to mess this up."

"You won't," she promised, taking his face in both of her hands and kissing him softly at first. Then her lips became more demanding, and Bob wrapped one strong arm around her, pulling her on top of him. She giggled against his lips before swiping his tongue with her own. 

Her fingers roamed his bare torso and found the light trail of hair below his belly button. "I'm going to take your jeans off," she whispered, carefully unbuttoning and unzipping them. Her hair was already kind of a mess, and he knew his must have been as well. But then all thoughts left his mind as she started to pull his pants down. Bob wasn't dumb; he knew he was at least average size from the amount of time he'd spent in naval locker rooms. But he was surprised by her soft gasp when she pulled his underwear down far enough that his erection sprang free. Then his jeans, socks and underwear were in a pile at the bottom of the small bed, and he was naked, too.

He grunted as she wrapped her hand around him. This was the best thing he ever felt. Until she kissed him there. "Oh god, Nova. Wait," he moaned, and she looked up at him with wide eyes. "Don't we need a condom?"

She responded by licking his length before crawling up his body to kiss his lips. "I can go ask my sister if she has any if you want to use one." 

"No!" he gasped, nearly headbutting her as he sat up. "No, don't do that." Bob wasn't sure that Natasha would respond kindly to that question coming from her sister. "Please don't."

But Nova was all smiles as she straddled his waist. "Okay," she whispered as he braced himself with his hand behind him on the bed. "I won't alert Natasha to the fact that we're about to have sex."

Bob sighed in relief and reached out to push her hair behind her ear. "Actually, if you could not mention her again right now, that would be great." 

Now she was laughing softly as she scooted up until Bob could feel her wet pussy rubbing his cock. "Promise," she confirmed as he looked up at her face. When he glanced down between them, all he could see was her perfect body and his cock jumping against her in excitement. "I'm on birth control anyway," she whispered, kissing along his jaw. "And I know you're a little nervous, but so am I."

"Why?" he asked, surprised by her words. 

Nova hummed as she kissed her way back to his lips. "I want this to feel good for you." She wrapped her arms around his neck as she slowly rolled her hips against him and made the softest sounds. His heart rate picked up as she added, "I want you to think about our hypothetical dates after I'm gone."

He was sure he would be thinking about Nova for a very long time. She was all gentle fingers in his hair and confident smiles. She was beautiful, and Bob could easily get addicted to this. 

She guided him to lay back on the pillows as she asked, "You ready?" 

"Yeah." His voice sounded hoarse as he looked up at her and pushed her hair over one shoulder. When he let his hands trail over the soft skin of her shoulders, breasts and sides, she shivered as she kissed him. Bob could feel her hand around his length, and then his head tipped away from her as he moaned. "Does that feel good?"

Good. That didn't seem like the right word for it, but now his brain felt a little hazy. Nova's lips ghosted over his as he moaned again. She felt tight and inviting, and when she rolled her hips with him inside her like this, Bob gripped her hip a little tighter. His other hand ended up tangled in her hair as he traced her freckled cheek with his thumb. "Nova," he gasped against her lips before devouring her. 

Her soft noises got a little louder, and each roll of her hips had Bob praying that this would never end. Every passing second was better than the last. Every time she whispered his name and tasted his tongue was too exciting. When she ended up on her back, looking up at him with wide eyes and parted lips, he kissed her neck and pushed himself deep inside her.

"Oh," she moaned, and he had to slowly shake his head to keep his focus. Her leg was hooked up around his hip, and he was suddenly very aware that he didn't know how to make her orgasm. 

"Nova?" he gasped as she reached for his hand. But he should have known she'd be willing to help him with this as she showed him where and how to rub her. 

"Fuck," she whined, taking a few gasping breaths. "That feels so good." He kept moving his hips, too, and a few seconds later, as she was nibbling on his lip and whining, he felt her squeezing around him. "Bob. Bob. Bob!"

Her back was arched off the bed, and her breasts bounced with every wild breath she took, and then he had no idea it would all happen so fast for him. He tucked his face against her neck and shoulder as he bucked into her without finesse. He couldn't control it. He came so hard, his vision looked like a kaleidoscope of colors when he opened his eyes. But she was right there, and she was perfect.

He half collapsed against her chest as she played with his hair, and it felt like it might have been a long time before he moved. Bob wrapped his arms a little tighter around her, and even though he thought he should feel timid, he didn't. He felt so relaxed and almost loved as she touched him like this. When he tipped his face up to look at her, she was smiling. 

He was picky, and the timing never felt right before now. But Nova was lovely, and tonight was the right night. "My Hanukkah wish is to go on all of those dates with you," he whispered, and she closed her eyes as she blushed. "And see how pretty you'd look with the sun setting and all the fairy lights."

She leaned up slightly to kiss his lips. "I wish we could."

As she laced her fingers with his, Bob whispered, "Maybe we can trade phone numbers? And talk until you get tired of me."

She nodded and asked, "And what if I don't ever get tired of you?"

Bob studied her face as she ran her fingers through his hair and down his neck to his shoulder. "Then we'll go on the dates for real."

Eventually they fell asleep around four in the morning after talking and having sex again. When Bob woke up at nine, it was to Nova's lips on his neck and her voice in his ear. "Morning, Bob." 

He just held her a little tighter. When they went downstairs, nobody was surprised they'd spent the night together, not even Nat. She greeted him with a kiss on the cheek, and he ended up staying all day, even after Bradley and Mickey both left. He just wanted to be around Nova for as long as possible, but eventually he had to leave so her sister could take her to the airport. So she could go back to New York.

"I'll miss you," she promised when she walked him out to his truck. She took his phone and saved her number for him. 

"Should I text you now? So you have mine, too?"

She wrapped her arms around his neck and whispered, "Fair warning, once you text me, I'll write back and probably never stop."

Bob laughed softly and quickly typed up a text to her while she kissed his neck. 

I miss you already, and I didn't even leave yet.

Then he kissed her back until her sister started yelling out the front door about going to the airport. "Bye, Bob," Nova whispered before kissing his cheek and bounding back in the house. As he drove away, his phone lit up in the cup holder with a series of texts from her, and he hoped she was telling the truth when she said she wouldn't stop.

----------------------------

Five months later...

"Are you really this nervous to see her again?" Natasha asked him as they walked through JFK airport together. "You've talked to her everyday for months. Hell, you flew out to see her for a weekend in March."

Bob blushed as he thought about those three days when he'd been here during a late winter snowstorm that kept him and Nova inside her apartment for most of the weekend. She'd hardly let him out of her bed. And while they weren't dating, not exactly, Bob knew he wanted to be.

"Yeah, I'm a little nervous. She has no idea I'm here for her graduation. Do you know how hard it was to lie to her?"

Nat laughed as they walked outside in the May sunlight to get a cab to Nova's apartment. Bob was slightly afraid she'd be upset when they got there. Or maybe there would be evidence of another guy. It might break his heart, but he'd have to accept it. But he just couldn't get past that night they spent together during Hanukkah, and he'd been falling in love with her since then. Even over the phone.

"I'm sure she'll be happier to see you than me," Nat told him. It seemed like no time passed at all before they were pulling up to the building he'd only seen once when it was surrounded by a layer of snow. 

He got out of the cab and stood awkwardly on the sidewalk as Natasha got her phone out. She looked up at him with a smile as she called her sister. "I'm here," she said before looking at the blank screen. "She screamed and then hung up."

Bob laughed nervously with his backpack on and Nat's hand rubbing his arm in a soothing circle. "If she's not excited to see me, I'll just get a hotel room or try to exchange my ticket for something earlier," he mumbled. 

But the next thing he knew, Nova was throwing open the door to her building. She barely looked at her sister before she gasped, "Bob!" and launched herself down the stairs and into his arms. 

"Hi," he whispered as she clung to the front of him and shamelessly kissed his lips and neck right in front of her sister. "I missed you."

She moaned softly and wrapped her arms around him as she let her cheek rest on his chest. "You brought me Bob? Is he my graduation present?" she asked Natasha as Bob ran his fingers through her hair and chuckled.

"Something like that," she replied, reaching for the key that was still in Nova's hand. "I'll meet the two of you inside." 

As Nat let herself in the building, Nova looked up at him. "You lied to me. You said you had to work this weekend."

"I'm sorry," he whispered. "I'll never do it again." She was melting into his touch as he cleared his throat and added, "I know you're still going on interviews and trying to decide on a job, but I took next week off just in case I could persuade you to come back to San Diego for a bit."

She smiled. "Now why would I want to do that?"

Bob shrugged. "I just really think we should go on those three dates before I ask you to be my girlfriend."

"Starlite. Mission Hills Rooftop Theater. Cliffs beach," she said softly.

"In that order," he confirmed. "But I'd be taking you home with me after each one."

"Then yes."

---------------------------

Happy Holidays! I'll be thinking about Bob and Nova through the New Year. Thanks to @mak-32 @beyondthesefourwalls and @ryebecca

@thedroneranger

@theamuz

@cherrycola27

@katiedid-3

@mak-32

@bradshawsbitch

@beyondthesefourwalls

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@daisydont-lie

@sappy-seresin

@birdy-bat-writes

@cutelittlefakejourneys

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@fandom-princess-forevermore

@sotalife

@novastories

@xoxabs88xox

@rileyanntoinette

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[imjessthemess-rec]

This is so good!!! So cute!!

[writercole]

Blurred Lines

Summary: Fucking friends leads to blurring lines. Words: 860 Warnings: 18+. Minors DNI. thigh riding, allusions to penetrative sex, fingering Credits: I think @princessmisery666 beta'd this months ago. A/N: Here's Bobby!

“We should never have started this,” she muttered as she watched Bob from across the room, several women trying to get his attention. Even still, his eyes found her in the crowd. They narrowed as they landed on her and she knew that he was seeing the mark on the side of her neck. His jaw ticked and his hands clenched into fists as he rose to his full height.

“You say something?” Rooster asked, his fingers tinkering on the piano keys.

“No. Nothing,” she squeaked before sipping at her drink, realizing that it was down to the ice at the bottom of the glass. She sighed as she turned away for a refill, maneuvering through the crowd towards the bar, waving her hand when Rooster crowed for another beer.

Two long arms caged her against the bar, a woodsy cologne filling her senses and giving her all she needed to place who was behind her.

“What’s that on your neck sweetheart?” Bob asked, his voice in her ear and his chest pressed against her back.

“Don’t know what you’re talking about,” she denied as she shifted her hair to hide the spot.

“Yes you do,” Bob growled, “or you wouldn’t be trying to cover it. Why is there a mark on your neck? Is that a hickey?”

“What? No, it’s a -”

“A hickey that I didn’t leave?” he interrupted. “I cannot let that slide now, can I?”

Without warning, she was tugged away from the bar, the crowd moving to close the space instantly. “Bob, we aren’t together, we don’t even like each other. You made that very clear,” she objected quietly.

Bob’s pale blue eyes darkened, a storm brewing in them. His furrowed brows and narrowed lids gave her little in the way of warning as he wrapped his fingers around her wrist. He tugged her down the hallway, past the bathrooms into the darkened corner beneath the emergency exit sign, the red LED helping to obscure them from what was happening in the bar.

Her back met the wall harshly, a soft growl emanating from his chest as he pressed himself against her.

“Sweetheart, there is a very thin line between love and hate and sometimes, it gets blurred. We may not be together but that does not mean I don’t like you.”

Before she could respond, Bob crashed his lips into hers, his hands cupping her face. It was rough, demanding. Dominating. Bob’s tongue parted her lips skillfully as his knee wedged between her thighs.

She whimpered as she ground against the tight muscles in his leg, chasing the friction she’d been desperate for since he walked in, the dark denim and white tee making her mouth water the second she laid eyes on him.

Bob’s hands left her face, wandering down her sides roughly as his lips left hers, trailing wet, sloppy kisses down her neck, sucking at random, leaving his mark as he had his way with her.

“Can they do this to you?” he questioned, a quietly playful tone in his voice. “Can they get you to make these sounds without even touching you?”

Her hips moved frantically against his denim-clad thigh, chasing the release she felt building with whimpers and moans. His knee moved and she whined, trying to follow the pressure and friction until his hands dipped below her waistband, two long fingers finding their way to her entrance, pushing into her dripping channel with no resistance.

“Can they fuck you like I can? Make you cum on their thigh? Their fingers? Their tongue?” his digits curled expertly against the spongy spot just to the right of the center of her walls and she cried out. “Do you cum for them like you cum on my cock, over and over and over again? Soaking them like you soak me?”

Her walls started pulsing around his fingers as her climax hit, wave after wave of ecstasy flowing through her from head to toe, panting moans drowned out by the crowd singing along with Rooster in the main room. He helped her ride out her high expertly before withdrawing his fingers and making a show of licking them clean, holding eye contact as he savored every drop with a sensual moan that made her walls clench around nothing.

“We’re leaving,” Bob commanded, his fingers wrapping around her wrist once again.

“But -”

“Sweetheart,” he sighed, “we’ve been doing the hate fuck thing long enough. Tonight, I want to spend all night making love to you and I want to wake up next to you tomorrow and the next day and the next. It’s time for me to admit that the line blurred a long time ago.”

She nodded and allowed him to pull her out of the back entrance, still processing the words he blurted out as he helped her into his truck. She was relieved that he felt the same way, that the lines had blurred for him as well. Even if he only admitted it out of jealousy because of a dumb mistake. He didn’t need to know that she had walked into a cabinet door at work. At least not yet.

[imjessthemess-rec]

Oh. My. God. COLE THIS WAS SO 😮‍💨

[writercole]

A Thin Line

Summary: There's a thin line between love and hate. Words: Vary between individual pieces. Warnings: Listed on individual pieces. I am not responsible for your media consumption. Credits: @princessmisery666 as always because she's the utter best beta I could ask for. @ryebecca and @wildbornsiren for the flails and the squeals. @imjess-themess for posting this prompt list that started the whole thing. Header is mine. I also have to give credit to the most beautiful cast I've ever seen for the inspo. A/N: Jess posted those dialogue prompts and every, single one of them gave me a tribble. That's the trouble with tribbles, though. Enjoy.

Blurred - Bob < 1k Insufferable - Fritz > 1.5k Try Again - Beau ~ 1k

[imjessthemess-rec]

[blue-aconite]

let me drown || chapter IV - jake's summer part I

Summary: Moving on is all about accepting what has happened to you. Jake reflects on his visit to Virgina while finding out that the future has in store for the Floyd siblings.

Warnings: Swearing, mentions of jealousy

Word Count: 4.6k

Pairings: Bradley Bradshaw x OC (past), Jake Seresin x OC (future)

Authors Note: And we're finally moving on from Bradley's summer. Let's see what the future has in store. Minors DNI. Each chapter will be labelled with warnings individually.

Thank you to my betas @demxters & @imjess-themess! I love and appreciate you ♥️

California, Lemoore Naval Air Station, Spring 2019

Jake waited patiently for his mother to pick up the phone, leaning against the wall. He only had a few minutes to spare and he hoped she was home. As he waited, Jake let his mind drift. 

It had been two weeks since he left Virginia after visiting his cousin. He hadn’t heard from Athena since but Jake hadn’t reached out either. There had been something strange about her when he came to visit but Jake hadn’t pushed, not wanting to be on the receiving end of another of her somewhat half-witted stories. 

His father has expressed his concern about her the last time they spoke but Jake had been too busy to genuinely spend time thinking about it. Something about her parents. Jake couldn’t truly remember. 

Thinking about his cousin brought up another memory to mind. Thea. She had been a breath of fresh air as he spent time in Virginia. He vaguely remembered Bob talking about his sister when they were deployed together but meeting Thea in person was different. 

He couldn’t deny that she was beautiful and her smile stirred something in him that he hadn’t felt in a long time. But she had a boyfriend, so Jake had settled for getting to know her as a friend. Despite people’s opinions of him, he wasn’t a complete asshole. Even though Jake felt like she could have done better than Bradshaw, he wasn’t about to get in between the two of them. 

Thea was as easy to get along with as her brother and Jake was delighted to find out that she could beat both Bob and him at golf as easily as he flew a jet. They had a great round and spending time with the Floyd siblings was easy. He had known Bob for years and it felt the same with Thea. Their relationship, however, had made Jake miss his own siblings and home. 

Just as he was about to hang up, his mother picked up the phone. “Jake, is that you?” 

“Ma, hi! Am I interrupting?” Jake asked, finding solace in his mother’s voice. Whenever he missed home, talking to her always made him miss it less. Her voice was warm and soothing. 

His mother laughed and he could see her prancing around the kitchen, phone pressed to her ear. “Of course not. I hope you’re calling to tell me that you’ll be coming home in time for Oliver’s birthday. It’s in three weeks, if you haven’t forgotten.”

“No, I haven’t forgotten. But I won’t make it.” He told her sadly. He didn’t want to disappoint his nephew or mother but this time he didn’t have any choice.

“JACOB THOMAS, you’ve known about his party for weeks,” Claudia scolded, making Jake hang his head, even though she couldn’t see him. “You know how excited he is.” 

“Ma, I did try, but getting a leave for a birthday party isn’t exactly standard protocol. I’ve sent a gift and an apology that I can’t attend. ” Jake sighed, leaning sideways against the wall. He scrubbed a hand down his face, listening to how disappointed Oliver would be that Uncle Jake wouldn’t show up to his sixth birthday.

He felt bad, he did. But without a leave he wasn’t going anywhere and his family knew that. “Ma, I would be there if I could, you know that.” 

Claudia sighed. “I know, baby. I just wish you could be here. He looks up to you.”

Torpedo appeared in the hallway, patting Jake on the shoulder as he walked past. “Hangman, five minutes, and then we have to get ready.”

Jake nodded and straightened up. “Ma, I have to go. I’ll call you when I can. I’ll try to call Oliver and wish him a happy birthday. I love you. Say hi to dad.”

Hanging up the phone, Jake leaned his head against the wall for a moment before straightening up and following Torpedo down the hall. As he entered the rec room, he knew it was going to be a long day. Critter and Blaze were already arguing over something stupid, no doubt. 

“Alright,” Torpedo clapped his hands together excitedly. “Hangman, you’re with Maple and Silver for today’s exercise. I’ll be with you two idiots.” He pointed to the arguing duo in the corner, both of them saluting sloppily. 

“Captain Porter has the rest of the instructions for you in the hangar. I’ll see you up there.” Torpedo nodded towards the door, Jake following closely. 

They walked in silence for a while, the rest of their squad chattering behind them. Critter and Blaze could still be heard arguing and Jake was glad he wasn’t supposed to fly with them. They were a good match but got on each others’ nerves all the time, as well as the rest of the squad. 

Jake wished Torpedo good luck as they parted ways, heading to their respective aircraft. He felt a sense of comfort and calm as he prepared his jet, going through the familiar motions. 

Jake tapped the nose of the plane for good luck, a ritual he’d kept up since he started flying. Maple saluted him as he climbed into the seat, making sure that all the safety straps were adjusted and he saluted back, winking. He hoped they’d touch down in time for dinner, he was in no mood the spend the entire evening doing the same exercise over and over. 

As the familiar rumble of the engines washed over him, Jake felt himself relax as he adjusted the final touches. As the jet took to the skies, Maple and Silver hot on his tail, he finally felt at home.

Jake left the locker room after his shower, hoping for a quiet evening. For once he wasn’t in the mood going out with his squad. Keeping his head down, he navigated the halls on his way to his room. He knew Torpedo wasn’t going to be in for the evening so he looked forward to catching up on some reading and just relaxing. 

As he kicked off his shoes and slung himself across the bed, his phone lit up with a text. Groaning, Jake reached for the device to see Coyote’s name. 

Did you hear the news?

No?

Floyd is transferring here. Replacing Cork in Eagles. 

Shit! What made him leave Oceana?

I was hoping you knew, since you saw him a while back!

No idea, he didn’t say anything.

Jake dragged a hand down his face, falling back against the pillows. Bob hadn’t mentioned a transfer while he was in Virginia. He wondered if there had been any trouble. Pulling up Athena’s contact info, he sent off a quick message. 

Hey, you know anything about why Floyd is transferring to Lemoore? 

He didn’t have to wait long before his phone buzzed again. 

Why the fuck do you care?

No need to be a bitch Athena. I was just asking. He didn’t say anything about it when I was over there

Jake sighed, already regretting reaching out to his cousin. Her behaviour during his visit was suspicious, especially her attitude towards Rooster. She had spent a significant portion of their time together complaining about Thea as well. It didn’t sit right with Jake but he also didn’t want to get involved in whatever beef she seemed to have with her pilot. 

Something about his sister? Idk, higher-ups quoted some bullshit about personal reasons. Not my problem honestly 

Jake sent a simple thumbs up back before tossing his phone aside. 

‘Something about his sister’ could mean that something was wrong with Thea. Jake wanted to reach out to Bob and ask but didn’t feel like it was appropriate either. They were friends but Jake didn’t know if interfering in family matters was the right thing to do. Hopefully, he’d catch Bob on base at some point. 

Jake felt the worry creep up and tried his best to force it down again. What had happened? Why would Thea be involved in anything having to do with a relocation for her brother? He hoped everything was alright. He liked both Floyd siblings and hated that either of them would have run into some kind of problem. 

Trying to get his mind off the matter, Jake picked up the most recent book he was reading, flipping through the pages until he reached the bookmark. It was a worn picture of him and his siblings, taken the summer before Jake was supposed to start first grade. He smiled, remembering how Paul had ruffled his hair right before the picture was taken, somewhat ruining Jake’s good mood.

His phone pinged with another text but this time from his sister. She told him that she understood that he wouldn’t make it for Oliver’s birthday. The “we miss you” at the end made his heartache. Jake hadn’t seen his sister or parents in person for almost two years and he missed them a lot. He almost pressed the button to call her but Torpedo’s key in the lock interrupted him.

“We missed you tonight.” the man chucked his shoes off, before haphazardly removing his jacket. 

Jake snorted. “Sure you did. I’m the life of the party.”

Torpedo slung himself onto the top bunk, not bothering to undress. Jake groaned as the familiar fumes of sweat and alcohol filled his nostrils. “Dude, at least take a shower. You reek.”

“Fuck off, Seresin.” the man jabbed but did as Jake asked anyway. 

Jake closed his eyes, putting the book down as he leaned back against the pillow. Maybe if he was lucky, he could fall asleep before Torpedo came back or at least ignore the other pilot.

A short buzz from his phone alerted him to another text. Jake wondered what the hell Coyote could want now. But it was Bob’s name that showed on the screen and Jake was embarrassed to say that he struggled to unlock the phone. 

I’m transferring next week. You still with the Vigilantes?

Hey man, yeah, heard it through the grapevine. I am!

Let me guess, Coyote? He’s always been a gossip

You said it, not me. How come you’re coming out west?

Personal reasons. Anyway, I thought I’d give you a heads-up. See you soon!

Appreciate it man! Glad to have another sane person around.

The indication that Bob was typing popped up but disappeared and his friend only reacted with a thumbs up instead. 

Jake wanted to pry and ask what the personal reasons were since they concerned Thea. Was she coming with him? And what about Rooster? Was he transferring too? After what Jake had seen at dinner, he didn’t think Bradshaw would like to be away from her. The man’s possessiveness had bothered Jake but it wasn’t his place to say anything, so he kept his mouth shut, hoping that Bob had seen it too and voiced his concerns to Thea. 

He didn’t know if Bradshaw had acted the way he did because Jake was there or if it was just how the man behaved but the way he had demonstrated that he and Thea were a couple didn’t sit right with him. He respected it, of course, but Rooster made it look wrong, making it look too possessive. 

Jake hadn’t really asked Thea about her relationship during golf, getting to know her instead. She had been kind enough to indulge in his inquiries. He had found himself feeling very drawn to Bob’s sister, who shared the same easygoing and kind nature as her brother. Jake knew that he had developed some sort of attraction to Thea during his short visit to Virginia but she was spoken for and that was it. 

Suddenly curious about whether Bradshaw would be showing up as well, Jake sent his cousin a text.

Is Bradshaw transferring as well?

Fucking coward got himself deployed out to sea with a new squadron. 

Jake didn’t bother to answer, brows creased as he read the text over and over. So Bradshaw wasn’t coming to Lemoore. Athena’s text told him more than he needed to know, her choice of words regarding Rooster very similar to the ones she’d sprouted during his visit. 

Jake realised that he shouldn’t speculate too much and just hoped he’d catch Bob at some point to ask what was really going on. Whatever it was, he just hoped Thea was alright. 

“So, did you get any information?” Coyote asked as they sat down in his seat across from Jake. He rubbed his hands together, eyebrows raised, and a hint of excitement in his voice. 

They had their weekly dinner, if their schedules allowed it and this time Javy had chosen a quiet but nice Japanese restaurant not far from Lemoore. 

Jake studied the menu, rolling his eyes. “Information on what?”

“Floyd? About how he’s coming here! You’re the last one that talked to him.” Javy exclaimed excitedly, almost bouncing in his seat. Jake couldn’t help but snort as he thought back on his and Bob’s conversation last week.

“Bob was right. You are such a gossip!” Jake joked. 

Javy made a faux wounded noise, hand over his chest. “I’m hurt. I simply like to be in the know.”

Jake shook his head, putting the menu down and reached for his glass of water. “You’re like an 80-year-old lady who keeps track of everything that happens on her street. Sitting there with binoculars, just waiting for the drama to happen. I don’t know how Phoenix puts up with you.”

Javy pretended to sniffle, putting on his best puppy eyes. “Nat loves me for who I am. Same can’t be said for you, asshat, who is supposed to be my best friend.”  

Jake subtly kicked his friend under the table, rolling his eyes at the same time. “Being your best friend is exhausting, I’ll have you know.” 

Javy gasped dramatically, shaking his head. Their server interrupted the moment to take their order and then they were left in peace for the time being. Jake thought back to his exchange with Bob earlier that week and pulled out his phone to show Javy.

“That’s all I know.” He concluded, hoping that Javy would be satisfied. 

“So both Bob and your cousin said personal reasons. Do you know anything about it?” Coyote asked. 

Jake leaned back in his seat, putting the phone screen down on the table. “I just said this is all I know,” he paused, Athena’s words seeping into his mind. “Joanna mentioned his sister as well but I don’t know how much of what she says is true. She talks a lot of shit.”

Javy snorted into his water as their server came back with their food. “She does talk a lot of shit.”

“Either way, I don’t know anything else. I just hope Thea and Bob are okay.” Jake said, pushing the wakame salad around on his plate. 

“Thea, huh?” Javy asked with a smirk, expertly picking up a salmon roll with his chopsticks and dunking it in soy sauce. Jake had made the mistake of telling Javy all about his trip to Virginia, including Thea, a few weeks prior. Javy had immediately picked up on the way Jake had talked about Bob’s sister and had not so subtly asked what the deal was. 

“So, is she pretty?” Javy wiggled his eyebrows, knocking their knees together. 

“If I say no, will you stop asking about it?” Jake grumbled, reaching for his beer on the coffee table. Fleetwood Mac poured from the speakers, people chatting all around them. A beer pong table was set up in the corner and Jake could spy people on the garden through the open glass sliding doors.  

Javy shoved a handful of peanuts into his mouth, chewing obnoxiously loudly. “Stop that, it’s disgusting.” Jake shoved at him and Javy shoved back before they leaned into each other, giggling as they watched Torpedo school one of Javy’s squad mates in darts. 

Their laughter died out and Jake sighed. “She’s beautiful. But that’s not the point. She’s funny and quick. You should have seen her beat both me and Bob out on the course.” 

“Man, you sound like a love-sick school girl.” Javy teased but raised an eyebrow questioning as well. 

“I found her interesting, that’s all. But she’s got a boyfriend. And that’s fine.” 

Coyote opened two new bottles of beer, handing one to him before answering. “Bradshaw, right?” 

Jake hummed. “Yeah.” 

“Bummer. Sounds like you really like her.” Javy nudged his side, in a way Jake guessed was supposed to be a comforting gesture but he didn’t know if Javy was trying to comfort him or insult Thea’s choice in boyfriend. 

Jake sighed. “I did. I do. But she’s also a really good friend. We had a lot of fun together,” he paused, peeling off the label around the bottle. “You’d like her. She’s a lot like her brother.” 

“Man, I love Floyd. He’s the quietest guy I’ve ever met but snarky as hell. And his dog is the cutest, - OH, speaking of dogs, I’m trying to convince Nat that we should get one and I need your help -“ Javy rambled. 

“Javy, there’s no way you two can have a dog. Both of you are still on active duty and don’t have a permanent place. Floyd’s got a civilian girlfriend, which probably helps.” Jake interrupted, bumping their shoulders together. 

Coyote gave him a side eye before rolling his eyes. “Couldn’t you have pretended at least?” 

“What kind of best friend would I be if I didn’t give you a reality check every now and then?” Jake joked. 

“We’ve been over this. She’s got a boyfriend, end of story. Yes, she made me feel.. something, but it’s not relevant.” Jake picked up a roll and shoved it in his mouth. 

“Did Bob say anything about her?” 

Jake shook his head. “‘Nah.” 

“What about her? Have you two talked?” Javy inquired, picking apart the sushi on his plate. 

“Not really? We texted back and forth after the golf session but she’s been quiet since. She’s probably busy.” 

Javy stayed quiet, prompting Jake to stay quiet as well. Maybe he should have reached out to her when he found out Bob was coming to Lemoore. Being around Thea had been easy and he genuinely thought they’d make great friends. 

“So, you said Bradshaw acted like a child?” Javy interrupted his musings. 

“Huh?” 

“Rooster? You said he behaved like a dick while you were visiting?” Javy glanced around as if they were being spied on. 

Rolling his eyes at his friend's antics, Jake leaned back in his chair. “Yeah. I didn’t like how he acted with her. I smiled and introduced myself and he put on a whole show making sure I knew she was off limits. Like, I know I’m an asshole but I wouldn’t go after a girl who’s taken. His behaviour just struck me as odd.” 

“Well, you’re not his favourite person,” Javy joked. Jake made an agreeing sound and they sat in silence. Javy was shifting back and forth, face drawn in a tight grimace despite his earlier jab. 

Jake sighed. “Spit it out.”

“What?” Javy rebuffed, crossing his arms defensively across his chest. 

“You obviously have something to say.”

Coyote hesitated a moment before speaking. “Don’t you think you’re looking too much into this? I understand that you’re worried but I’m sure that if something was wrong, Bob would have picked up on it. From what you’ve told me, he and Thea seem pretty close and I don’t think Floyd would let anyone hurt his sister.” 

Jake opened his mouth to protest but Javy beat him to it. “I’m not saying I don’t believe you. I do. But I just don’t want you to get too attached to Thea. You said it yourself, she’s got a boyfriend. It’s not your job to worry. Bob would probably put his foot down if Bradshaw is acting up.” He finished, face apologetic. 

Jake knew Javy was right. It wasn’t his problem and he was sure Bob would keep an eye on Thea. It just felt off. But he knew he needed to take Javy’s words to heart. 

Thea had a boyfriend. He was just a friend. He had no right to say anything about their relationship. All he could settle for was to be a good friend to Thea. 

“You’re right.” Jake admitted defeat. It didn’t feel right but it was for the best. 

Javy nudged his shin, face still drawn into a tight smile. “Of course I’m right, I’m always right. But for what it’s worth, I’m sorry. I know you like her.”

Jake gave him a tight smile, shrugging slightly. “Like I said, you’re right.”

They made small talk for the rest of the dinner and promised to try and get together the next week.

As Jake walked back to his place, he tried his best to not think about Thea. He thought about what he should send as a present to Oliver for his birthday, if Torpedo would have left his stuff all over the floor as usual. 

He tried so hard to think about anything else than Thea. And as his phone lit up with her name, he failed spectacularly. 

After a gruelling day consisting of mostly everything going wrong, Jake just wanted to lie down and forget that world existed. 

But he opted to head to the gym, headphones on to not be disturbed. There weren't many people there when he arrived and he claimed a spot in the far back for his warm up routine. 

He checked his messages once more, hoping that there would be a text but was met with disappointment. Not that his latest message required an answer but he had hoped for the conversation to continue after Thea reached out after dinner. 

Her message had been short, a question only and Jake had probably answered a little too quickly. 

Are you still stationed out in CA? - Thea 

Jake had immediately replied yes and then tentatively let her know that he knew Bob was being transferred. She never replied and Jake wondered if he crossed a line. 

In hindsight he was probably overthinking the whole thing and as he stretched, he decided that he was going to try and take Javy’s advice. Whatever was going on, he didn’t need to get involved. 

Even he desperately wanted to know. If something had happened to Thea, he wanted to be able to be there for her if she needed it. But it wasn’t his job. So he put his phone on ‘don’t disturb’ for the reminder of his time in the gym. 

On his way back, he spoke briefly with Paul about Oliver’s birthday party and its success. His brother made sure he knew that Oliver got Jake’s gift and how excited he was even though Jake couldn’t attend. 

“…and then Maria said she met this guy at a study group and wanted to know if she can go on a date? Over my dead body.” Paul whined and Jake could imagine his brother's horror at his eldest daughters dating adventures. 

“If I remember correctly, we were all allowed to date at 16.” Jake mused, waving to Torpedo as he passed him by. 

Paul snorted. “Yeah and I also remember what being 16 is like. She’ll go on that date when hell freezes over.” 

Jake opened his mouth to respond but the sight of Bob Floyd had him backtracking and quickly ending the call. 

“Floyd! Didn’t know you were here yet.” Jake greeted as he approached the WSO, extending his hand for a handshake. Bob, as usual, surprised him by pulling him into a brief hug before leaning back. 

“Just left the air boss's office actually. Heading out soon, I just wanted to catch you before I left.” Bob explained, shoving his hands in his pockets. He looked on edge, a tenseness in his shoulders that Jake hadn’t seen the last time they were together. 

“Not staying on base then?” 

Bob shook his head. “I’ll get my bunk tomorrow. I'm staying with Thea tonight.” 

At the mention of Bob’s sister, Jake felt his heart accelerate but tried his best to hide it. “Oh, so she’s here? Didn’t think she’d leave.” 

Bob shrugged, hands still buried deep in his pockets. “She needed to leave.” 

He doesn’t elaborate and Jake’s dying to ask why but he doesn’t want to come across as nosy. So he settles on a safer topic. 

“What about that fiancée of yours, where’s she?” 

Bob starts toward the parking lot and Jake follows, his gym bag slung across his shoulder. 

“She’s still in Virginia. Her job won’t let her leave right away. She’ll join us when she can.” 

Jake clicked his tongue, mimicking Bob’s stance by shoving his hands into the pockets of his jeans. “Bet you miss the dog more, huh?” 

Bob snorted and huffed a laugh, opening the car door. “Listen, you should come over for dinner soon. Thea will be happy to see you.” 

“Will she?” Jake heard himself ask, hoping that the nervousness that had snuck up on him the moment Bob mentioned Thea wasn’t noticeable. 

“Yeah, she will. I think she needs it.” Bob assured, handing him a handwritten note with an address on it. 

Jake thanked him and they decided on a day next week, so the siblings could have some time to settle before bringing guests over. 

Bob requested that he bring Javy along if the man was free and Jake promised to let his best friend know about the invite the next time they spoke. 

As Bob got ready to start the car, Jake voiced the question that had been nagging him since he found out about Floyd’s transfer. 

“Hey, is Thea okay?” 

Bob stopped short of turning the key in the ignition, taking a deep breath. The lines around his eyes hardened and Jake felt like he had asked the wrong question. 

“No, she’s not. She will be, eventually. It’s not my story to tell. All I can say is that Bradshaw isn’t in the picture anymore.” 

So they broke up. Jake’s suspicions had been right. 

“How come?” He wondered, toeing the line between being polite and outright asking. 

Bob leaned back in his seat. “Like I said, not my story to tell.”

He felt mildly disappointed but took it in stride, the corners of his mouth curling upwards. “Well, if you need help to hide the body, you have my number. See you Wednesday, yeah?” 

They parted ways, bidding each other good night and Jake headed back towards his room. As he walked, he pulled out his phone and opened his text messages, scrolling until he found his conversation with Thea. 

Spoke with your brother. Whatever happened, I’m here for you, if you need a friend. Don’t hesitate to reach out. 

He put away the phone, reaching for his book as he made himself comfortable on the bed. Jake felt slightly calmer now that he knew something rather than nothing but he still wanted to reach out. If Thea didn’t want to answer him, that was okay. He just wanted her to know that he was there for her, for whatever she needed. 

He turned out the light after two chapters, exhaustion hitting him. As he turned out the light, a quiet chime from his phone alerted him to a notification. 

It wasn’t an answer but it was enough for him to know that she had gotten his message. A red heart marked his last sent message and Jake fell asleep with a smile on his face.

Taglist: @wildbornsiren​ @ryebecca @imjess-themess @antiquitea @fuckyeahhangman @writercole @hederasgarden @yanna-banana @bobfloydsbabe @hollandorks @anniesocsandgeneralstore @ereardon @luminousnotmatter @roosterscock @thedroneranger @fandomxpreferences @top-hhun @princessmisery666 @bradshawsbitch​ @a-reader-and-a-writer @green-socks @angstybluejay @seresinhangmanjake @ayorooster​@notroosterbradshaw​ @indynerdgirl @gigisimsonmars @girl-in-the-chairs-void@bradshawbabes @unhinged-btch @horseshoegirl @sadpetalsstuff @bradshawbaby @ahopelessromanticwritersworld @ummjustfics​ @septemberrie​ @somenamewithepineapple​ @seresinsweetie​​ @crescentwolf​ @seresinhangmanjake​ @waklman​ @roosterforme​ @rosiahills22​ @dempy​ @i0veless​ @ilovewriting06​ @kmc1989​ @demxters @amortentiadrops @teacupsandtopgun @hangmanscoming

[imjessthemess-rec]

I love this story so much!! I can’t wait to see how Thea thrives and how sweet Jake will be 💕

[never--doubt]

Diamond in the Rough- Part 1

Series Summary: After mourning the death of her husband, Dowager Baroness Y/N Marlowe decides she wants to remarry- for love this time. But when her three most prominent suitors just happen to be the three Bridgerton brothers...there's no telling how the season will go.

Chapter Summary: The season is about to start, and you have a plan ready to go into action. But what happens when none other than Lady Danbury invites you over for tea to discuss the season?

Pairing: ??? x Female!Reader

Words: 1,992

Warnings: regency gossip, talk of loveless marriage, women get shit done

Series Masterlist here!

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Dearest gentle reader,

As the next marriage season approaches, all of the Ton is still in their summer and autumn homes. Mothers are readying for daughters to find husbands, new debutantes are already nervous for the season, and Gentlemen are trying to decide now if they truly wish to marry this season.

But what interests this author is that Dowager Lady Y/N Marlowe returned from her mourning cottage two months prior. According to my sources, Lady Y/N happier than before she joined the marriage season and married her late husband; is this a sign that the marriage we all thought was on rocky shores was worse than we feared?

Whatever the case, this author speculates that Lady Y/N may have more plans for this season rather than just being an aunt and assisting the Baron’s wife. And with the Marlowe family already in London, weeks before the season begins, this author can only wonder just what is going on.

Lady Whistledown’s Society Papers,

24 October 1814

Lady Danbury hummed softly, rereading the gossip paper in her hand. “Interesting…Lady Y/N Marlowe, a name I have not heard in some time...”

Setting down the paper and exchanging it for the cup of tea, she asked the maid for a quill and parchment, a plan already spinning in her mind.

The quill and parchment arrived quickly, and she penned an intivation, folding it and handing it back to the maid. “Deliver this to the Marlowe estate, as quickly as possible. And have the footman wait for a response.”

The maid curtsied. “Of course, my lady.”

“Y/N.”

You glanced up from watching Samuel in the yard, his nanny playing with him, furrowing your brows as Elizabeth moved towards you, a letter in her hands. “What is it?” you asked, setting down your book.

“Lady Danbury is inviting us for tea tomorrow,” she muttered, sitting beside you.

“Oh.” You blinked, taking the letting she held out, reading the script. It was just that, an invitation to tea for you both, nothing more on the page. You knew the game though, there was obviously more at play. Otherwise the invitation wouldn’t have come.

“A footman is waiting for a response,” Elizabeth added.

You handed back the note, smirking. “Say yes.”

She raised her eyebrows. “Are you sure?”

You had declined almost all other invitations so far, claiming that you were still adjusting to London after your mourning period. You were aware it would only work for so long, but so far it was working, leaving you time to plan and enjoy the peace before the season.

“Positive,” you responded. “I think I know what she’s planning. And…” You took a slow breath. “she might be able to help.”

Elizabeth paused but smiled, standing. “Alright. Then we will have tea tomorrow.”

You and Elizabeth entered the Danbury estate’s drawing room, smiling and curtseying together as Lady Danbury stood. “Lady ad Lady Marlowe,” she greeted, a large smile on her face.

“Lady Danbury,” Elizabeth replied. “Thank you so much for inviting us for tea.”

“When I heard you both were back in London so early, I wanted a moment alone with you both,” she stated, her eyes scrunching in the way you recognized back in your debut season, when you was up to something. “But come, sit.”

You both sat, and tea was served, Lady Danbury sending away her staff entirely. “It is nice having tea with others again,” you commented softly, glancing at Elizabeth and Lady Danbury.

Your friend gave you a sad smile, reaching out and squeezing your hand as Lady Danbury spoke, “The mourning period is long and lonely.” Her gaze turned to you, the exact gaze you were expecting; piercing, discerning and plotting. “I know it all too well. It is worse when the morning is for those you love.”

You took a breath, setting down your tea cup. “May I speak openly, Lady Danbury?”

She smirked, setting down her own cup. “Of course you may.”

“Y/N…” Elizabeth warned.

“My mourning period was awful because I was bored,” you stated, staring at the older woman. “I was in a cottage in the country, alone from prying eyes, forced by society to mourn a man that did not love me nor care for me.”

Elizabeth sighed, while Lady Danbury’s smirk only grew.

You continued on. “The new Baron convinced me to stay in the country to be away from prying eyes, because God knows the Ton loves one thing more than a mourning woman, a scandal, and I was both last year.”

“So, pray tell, Lady Y/N, why have you returned to London this season?” Lady Danbury asked. “If you know you are a scandal the Ton will only love to watch?”

“Why do you think I have returned, my lady?” you replied, taking a biscuit.

“I knew I should have declined,” Elizabeth whispered.

“No, you should not have,” Lady Danbury stated, glancing at her. “Because depending on Lady Y/N’s next response, I can either help you both with whatever plan is being concocted, or we all pretend like this tea is a normal tea that every lady of the ton has.”

Her gaze turned to you then, her eyes just as piercing as when you entered the room. There was a reason most of the ton feared her, she was smarter than most and played this game better than anyone else.

“I think you have returned to London to find a new husband,” she stated. “Because, like many widows, you realized your late husband was lacking in too much, and you wish to marry for love.”

You let out the breath you had been holding since you entered the carriage back home, smiling at thr woman. “...I was afraid no one else felt this way.”

Lady Danbury’s grin grew, and she leaned closer to you, covering your hand with her own. “Too many too, and they are all afraid to admit it, my dear. It is refreshing to hear someone finally say it aloud.”

You laughed, turning your hand to squeeze hers, glancing at Elizabeth, who was smiling as well. “Alright, alright,” she said. “I should not have worried.”

“I told you not to,” you muttered.

“So, now you must tell me everything,” Lady Danbury stated. “Three minds are better than one, afterall.”

“There is not exactly a plan...more of Y/N knowing what she is looking for,” Elizabeth stated. “Y/N is joining the season to marry, find a husband.”

The older woman paused, turning her eyes to you. “Well, what are you looking for in a husband, Lady Y/N?”

You took a sip of your tea, taking a breath. “...when I debuted, I knew I needed to marry. My mother had passed, my father was weak, and there was no heir. If I did not marry, I was destitute.” Both women’s faces fell. “Thomas was kind, at the time. He offered me safety, a home, and the title was...something extra. Now that Thomas is gone, Luke is Baron with Elizabeth running the home, I can…” You looked down at your tea, running your fingers along the details of the cup edges. “The year alone gave me time to realize that I want happiness.”

“You want a love match.”

You looked up to Lady Danbury, nodding. “I do.”

She smiled, nodding but sighing. “...it will be hard.”

“We are expecting it to be,” Elizabeth said.

“I am not blind, or dreaming of a perfect situation, Lady Danbury,” you muttered. “I am a widow. I was married, older than most on the marriage mart. And any men who will turn up their nose at those facts can do so, they are not for me.”

She smirked, raising an eyebrow. “Oh?”

“Here we go,” your friend muttered, lifting her teacup to her lips, shaking her head.

“I know what I want for my husband,” you stated, smiling softly. “I have experienced marriage, men, and courting. The other women, girls this season don’t have my experience. I am tired of the games of cat and mouse over and over, of not saying no when I don’t want something. I will simply say no, deny men that I know are not who I will love.”

“Ah, I see,” Lady Danbury muttered, glancing at Elizabeth.

“Oh, there’s more,” Elizabeth replied.

Both women looked at you, and you shrugged, sipping your tea. “If someone were to approach my situation logically, I am a better choice than most girls on the market.”

Lady Danbury blinked and turned to you. “How so?”

You set down your cup. “I already know everything a wife would need to know. I have experience running a home, taking care of staff, hosting balls. I know what ‘martial affairs’ entails, and more. All that I do not have experience in is childbirth. Compared to any other woman or girl looking for a husband in any ballroom, they all have no experience with no things, only being taught by their mothers and shown.” As you spoke, Lady Danbury’s smirk grew. “Any man that would willingly choose a naive girl over an experienced woman is either an idiot or plotting something, and either way, that is a man I would rather avoid.”

By the time you finished talking, she was nodding. “There is no doubt that you know what you are looking for, Lady Y/N.”

“If she didn’t, I’d be worried,” Elizabeth muttered.

You rolled your eyes with a smile, grabbing a biscuit. “It will give me an edge in the ballroom. If I did not know what I want and what I’m looking for, I’d be as lost as I was when I debuted.”

“Fair enough,” Lady Danbury commented. “But how do you plan to make the ton aware that you are looking for a husband? You both said you have no plan, and making gentlemen aware is important in minding you a love match, my dear.”

You and Elizabeth exchanged a glance, before looking at her. “That is one aspect we are...stuck on,” Elizabeth stated. “I suggested she announce it at your ball.”

“But announcing it to a room or group seems too needy,” you stated. “I suggested leaking the information to Lady Whistledown…”

“But if Lady Whistledown tells the Ton then it will seem as if it was a secret no one was to know,” Elizabeth continued.

“A dilemma indeed,” Lady Danbury said, before smiling. “Lucky for you both, you now have me. And…” Her smile grew. “I always hose the first ball of the season.”

You smiled back. “That you do, my lady.”

She lifted her teacup, her gaze steady with yours. “You, Lady Y/N...will be my unannounced guest of honor.”

“Unannounced?” Elizabeth repeated.

“The ton already knows she is here,” Lady Danbury explained. “The surprise is gone. But when you all enter, and I greet you all, everyone’s eyes will fall to her for a moment. And then they will stay on her as she joins me around the room, as I introduce her to men and families I deem worthy.”

Your smile grew, Elizabeth smiling as well. “Oh. That is brilliant.”

“That is why you tell this old lady your plans,” she teased, glancing between you both. “Because that is only step one.”

Your eyebrows raised now. “Step one?”

“With me by your side, Lady Y/N, we will make you the diamond in the rough again,” she stated, her grin growing even more.

Elizabeth gasped, turning to you, her eyes sparkling. “I had forgotten about that title!”

“So had I,” you muttered.

“The ton will be so enraptured with you, my dear, the scandal that your awful husband brought down upon you will be washed away entirely,” Lady Danbury stated. “And you will find love, one way or another.”

You smiled. “Thank you, my lady. Having you as my guide is...more relieving than I can say.”

She reached out and squeezed your hand again. “That is what us old women are here for.”

Feedback fuels me!

I do not use a tag list anymore, due to tumblr's new posting system.

[imjessthemess-rec]

I love everything about this and can’t wait to see where this goes!!