Strong, Silent, Never Violent

Jordan. That's it.

[wewerechildrenwerenotnow]

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

[morganlittle]

“You’re speaking my language right now. There will never not be a dvd player in my home.” Morgan loved collecting them and rewatching them. Trying to find things that were still on streaming services without having to pay a monthly subscription for several different ones was too much. She’d been to a lot of yard sales to get them secondhand. And when the Blockbuster closed in town she got a lot there too.

Morgan looked over at him and the second their eyes met it was like her heart stopped in her chest. That. She wanted him to look at her like that all the time. He looked away and she ducked her head, trying to pretend like that hadn’t just rocked her. “I think I am too,” she agreed.

“That’s amazing Jordan,” she said, her own excitement growing. She hoped he achieved all his dreams, she didn’t know anyone more deserving. “Cal Tech, I’m assuming that’s California?” That was far. Across the other side of the country far. But that wasn’t something she should be thinking about right now. And a lot of people moved away from home for college. “I think you’d be perfect for that. You have an incredible brain.”

[jordanutley]

"I appreciate you saying that. I've always been a bit behind the times with my love of them, but it's one of the best data storage options." And he could find so many excellent ones at the East Ham thrift store. They couldn't always afford a streaming plan, but a $3 dvd was a much easier expense to swallow.

The trouble with getting to go on a date with a girl that you liked was that you never knew when was the right time to act. He didn't feel like this was the right spot for their first kiss, but there was a tension to the air that he'd only experienced in those kind of moments. "From now on I'll always associate it with you." The small dusting of snow across her nose was a breathtaking sight that would linger in his brain for many nights to come.

"Los Angeles, to be specific. I'm told that the San Gabriel Valley is a bit quieter than the more well known parts of the county." He took another sip of his drink. "I expect I'll see very little of it, however, because the program is incredibly demanding. What about you? Where do you see yourself heading?"

[wewerechildrenwerenotnow]

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

[morganlittle]

“Don’t worry, we’ll fix it,” she told him, beaming. The idea excited her so much. She’d invite him over when her mom was on night shift so they could be truly alone. They’d have popcorn and twizzlers and hot chocolate. She had a lot to look forward to with this smart, handsome, slightly awkward, sweet boy next to her.

“Hmm,” Morgan said, examining their hands and giving his a squeeze. “Romantic and practical. We’re already making winter better.” She leaned into him so their arms were pressed together as well. Jordan was right, it was warmer like this. “It’s hard to,” she agreed. “The cold is brutal here.”

“Would almost make sense to have them on standby if that wasn’t taking away resources from other emergencies,” she said. Something in her relaxed on Jordan’s behalf. There would be an end to this rivalry when they were done with school. “You’ll be freeee,” she said, smiling up at him. “Where do you want to go?”

[jordanutley]

"I'm very much looking forward to it." Jordan could think of nothing more relaxing than cuddling up with Morgan on either of their couches and watching some of his favorite films. "Most of the good ones have already been removed from streaming, but I've never given up on our dvd player."

He felt her squeeze travel through him and prayed that his cheeks wouldn't get any pinker. He loved walking next to her, feeling her hand in his. For weeks, he'd dreamed of this. It was hard to believe that it was real. "I'm starting to grow fond of it." He gazed at her adoringly before moving his attention back to his hot chocolate. He took a sip, but the warmth in the drink didn't compare to the feeling of her skin against his.

"I do worry about that. I thought one fire extinguisher would be enough, but I've been proven wrong." He shuddered not to think about it too much. The future was a much better topic. There was no clear sign of death on the horizon. "Cal Tech. If Wes is determined to visit space, then I want to make sure that the right people are getting him there. If I make it Cal Tech, I have a great chance at working at JPL. It would be my dream." He shook his head slightly. "I apologize. It's the Jet Propulsion Lab, they work closely with NASA. I'd never want to be involved in privatizing space. It's a public good."

[wewerechildrenwerenotnow]

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

[morganlittle]

Morgan listened like she was studying for a test on all of Jordan’s likes and dislikes. “I’ve only seen one of those. How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days. Will you show me the others?” she asked. It felt important. She wanted to learn what it was about those ones that made them his favourites. Collect these facts like little Jordan souvenirs.

Morgan felt like she was going to swoon on the spot. Wait. Yeah, she was. She scrunched her nose at him to hide it. “You are literally the sweetest.” She looked down, realising she hadn’t taken his hand back after his coughing spell. “Why did I let you go? Give me this,” she said, linking their fingers again and sighing contentedly.

“I agree. It definitely does even out. Things not bursting into flames is quite important.” He was so cute when he blushed. It made her want to say more things to make it happen.

[jordanutley]

"Only one?" He rested his hot chocolate against his chest. "I'm sorry that you've missed out on such wonderful films, but I'd love the chance to show you the rest. They are truly in a class of their own." At least she'd seen How to Lose a Guy. The only thing worse than one was zero, because it suggested that she might never like them. He'd had that problem with Viola and it had been difficult.

His ears were turning pink. He could feel all the blood gathering there as she continued to compliment him. He held his hand out for her gratefully. "It's not just a nice feeling, you know, you're also keeping my hand warm. It may be cold nearly half the year here, but I've never gotten used to it the way people say you should." His mum was worse about it, griping about how he could never survive the gloom of England.

"It is and you'd be surprised how frequently firefighters are called to our competitions." It had taken some getting used to for him. He knew very little about his dad, only that he was in a helping profession like firefighters and police. He could never stop himself from indexing their features, trying to map his own on them. That kind of distraction was dangerous in a competition. "I will be grateful when Cricket and I are in separate robotics programs. I've heard about his heart being set on MIT and I have no interest in that."

[wewerechildrenwerenotnow]

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

[morganlittle]

“What are some of your favourites?” she asked him. Morgan saw a lot of time spent cuddling on her couch in their near future.

“Me too,” she agreed. “Moving on now.”

Morgan smiled brightly at him, her heart kicking up with newfound energy at his words. “Trust me, they exist. I’m not that way with everybody.” She tried to be, but there were times when she’d messed up or someone else had, and relationships or friendships were ruined as a result. Morgan felt lucky that it was a relatively low number, but she knew she did not appeal to everybody. Some people were allergic to joy. It was fine.

“Ohh it’s like that.” Morgan nodded. “You’re just as smart and capable. They’re lucky to have you on the team.” She wouldn’t pretend she understood whatever was at the root of this, weather Cricket was feeling jealous or threatened. But it didn’t really matter. “I’m glad it doesn’t affect you though.”

[jordanutley]

Jordan's brain struggled to narrow down the list when he had some many he enjoyed. "When Harry Met Sally, The Shop Around the Corner, How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days, It Happened One Night, Dirty Dancing. Honestly, I could spend a lifetime watching only rom-coms and probably still never see them all. Not all of them are good. I find it perplexing that John Hughes, for example, is given a lot of credit in the genre when I don't find the romances to be well done. But there are many incredible ones."

He laughed softly, shaking his head. "I'm sure there are, but they seem like the kind of people I could have nothing in common with." There was something about Morgan that made people gravitate to her. He didn't trust someone who was immune to that spark.

"It is, in fact, like that. I do know that professional rivalries were commonplace throughout history, but it seems a bit much when we're in a hobby club." There were opportunities that could be born out from the club, yes, but it wasn't life or death for any of them. And yet, when he saw Cricket he frequently had the feeling that they'd been locked in some sort of historical blood feud for generations. It was difficult to explain.

His cheeks reddened at her compliments. "Thank you. I don't place as highly, but Derek and I also have fewer combustible projects so I feel like it evens out. We're dependable."

[wewerechildrenwerenotnow]

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

[morganlittle]

Morgan pressed her lips together, hiding her smile and stopping herself from saying something ridiculous like good boy or I’m proud of you. He was too… she was so charmed by him and everything he did. She was in so much trouble but she’d never been happier about it.

“I agree. You’ve got solid opinions. I kind of want to see what you think about my other favourites.” She’d happily show him. They could make a day of it, whenever she actually had a full one off.

“Thank you.” She smiled warmly at him. “I won’t tempt fate and ask what could go wrong when I have your support, but it’s reassuring knowing you’re there for backup.”

Morgan frowned at his summary of himself. “Jordan that’s…” she shook her head, trying to decide how to word what she wanted to say. “It might sound blunt but I don’t care about that. I like you. The people who are meant to be in my life won’t care either. If they have an issue, I will tell them where to go.”

“She does,” she agreed. “If they’re sharing the stage, Luke doesn’t hold a candle to her. Sorry Luke.”

“Okay, I’m sorry,” she told him. Though he didn’t seem to be. She tried to ignore the fact that she’d had a threesome with Cricket and had used him (with consent) to publicly break up with her ex. That was way too much for this. “I’ll say it though, he’s wrong for that.”

[jordanutley]

"Thank you. I've seen a fair amount of romantic classics, but I feel my theatrical education is limited outside of that." Jordan gave a half-hearted shrug. "I have an interest and it's difficult to deviate when so many of the other categories are so violent. And comedy's out because my mother's, well, British." The sense of humor was very different and he'd grown up with his own strange sense of humor from being a third culture child.

He patted her arm softly. "I would prefer we not linger on you being injured. I hope it never happens." The very idea of it made the nerves at the base of his neck tingle in unease. He didn't handle seeing people in pain well.

Jordan couldn't hide his smile. Hearing the words I like you from her mouth made him warm inside. It was something he'd started to imagine, but never dreamed would be real. The notion of dating was a difficult prospect for him after Viola and he hadn't been entirely sure he was ready to take the step with Morgan until today. "I like you as well, but I also have a difficult time picturing anyone disliking you. You're so friendly and charming."

He nodded softly. "I don't think he'd object to that. Rumi is a well known talent in our little corner of the world."

He was so used to his feud with Cricket, that it surprised him to hear someone defend him against Cricket. People always believed that Cricket was in the right. He was personable and funny. He was good looking and not gangly. He had slept with many people. All things that could endear him to others. Jordan had... his quirks. "I appreciate hearing that. It's alright with me that we have a feud, it does keep competitions more interesting. We're both on the robotics team and he likes to insinuate that we would never win without him and Del. I disagree."

[wewerechildrenwerenotnow]

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

[morganlittle]

Morgan saw right through the white lie but she’d let him have it. No use in making this worse for him. “Ohhh okay. You’re meant to drink it, not inhale it. You’ve got to work on that Jordy.” The nickname slipped from her lips, but she found she didn’t dislike it.

“Right? They’re fun though, even if they’re not peak cinema.” Morgan had half a row on one of their shelves dedicated to cheerleading DVDs. A couple of them were very scratched up and glitched in certain spots, but she’d never get rid of them. They were pillars of her development.

“Exactly. No broken bones or… other things,” she said, choosing not to go into detail on the more serious possibilities. It’d just freak both of them out and they were having a nice time. “Make sure you cross your fingers for me. Extra luck.”

“I think you’re cool,” she disagreed immediately. “Different to Luke’s brand, but still cool.” Morgan nodded. “Yeah he is. He joined for the girls and then it was too late to leave when Rumi ruined that for him.” She laughed. “I think he actually likes it now though. He’s quite good.”

“I love Rumi. I want to be her when I grow up. After I retire from cheer.” Morgan grinned at him. “Don’t let Cricket hear you say that.”

[jordanutley]

"I will endeavor to be my best." He kept eye contact with her while taking a drink, to prove that he could be responsible with the beverage. This did, however, have the unfortunate side effect of making his cheeks heat. He was going to ignore that.

"They can be." He'd see a few that he loved and some he'd rather forget. "I think it was Bring It On Three or Four that made me question the series as a whole. But I would argue that the first is a true classic of cinema." He would be willing to give others a shot though, should she ever invite him over to do so.

His eyes widened. The thought of something worse happening to Morgan was unfathomable. She was so strong and focused when performing her sport. But, accidents did happen. Apparently he did have a type. Daredevils. "Nothing that can't be fixed with a quick trip to urgent care. I'll cross both of my fingers for you." He'd be lucky if he could watch her perform from between his fingers next time.

As flattered as he was by her assessment, he couldn't let it stand. "I'm very much a nerd and not the kind that is currently in fashion. The kind that gets weird remarks from other nerds. It's alright, I've made my peace with it, but you should know that dating me might have an impact on your social status." He hoped that he wouldn't be forever known as the guy who went to jail briefly to cover for his girlfriend, but he wasn't sure that people would ever forget it. They hadn't found it to be the romantic gesture he'd hoped it would read as. Then again, neither had he after several hours in lock up. "I'll try and remember to keep an eye on him at the next performance, Rumi has that star quality that makes it difficult to not look at her."

He couldn't help but laugh. What an enviable goal. "She's an excellent role model. As for Cricket, our animosity is mutual. He couldn't possibly be hurt by anything I have to say, for he doesn't respect me at all."

[wewerechildrenwerenotnow]

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

[morganlittle]

Morgan’s eyes widened at his reaction to her joke, laughter bubbling up out of her. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry,” she said, letting go of his hand to rub his back. “I was only kidding, I’m not in love with you yet. Not funny Morgan.” She laughed again though, making herself a liar.

“Truly though,” she began, “I can’t actually put into words how much it means that you see it that way.” So much. So so much. “And thank you. I hope I do too. It’ll happen eventually because it always does, but hopefully not too badly.” She immediately felt like she was jinxing herself. “Knock on wood,” she said, and ventured from the path a step to rap her knuckles on a nearby tree.

“Spectacular,” she echoed, nodding her head. If anyone could make a first date spectacular, it was Jordan. She was in good hands.

“Of course, we’d love to have you.” Morgan was suddenly desperate for her mom to meet him. To get her approval. She couldn’t wait to go home and tell her about what happened today. “Sometimes my cousin Luke joins in, but he’s usually too cool for baking, crafts and holiday movies.”

[jordanutley]

"I'm aware." He went through another round of coughing. "It was a good joke. Really. I'm just too excited in drinking my hot chocolate." Jordan was impressed with himself. Even he didn't anticipate making things awkward quite so early, perhaps it was his unconventional taste.

He nodded his head. "It's hard not to be invested, once you've seen how challenging the movements are. I understand why there's a whole genre of movies about it, even if most of them aren't very good." He was baffled at how the bring it on series had gone from being about systemic racism to cheer squads that didn't like each other for petty reasons.

Jordan didn't particularly like the idea of her getting injured, but he supposed it was better to accept the likelihood than act like you were invincible. "I hope that as well. A minor scrape or something a few days of rest can cure."

He was relieved to see that she was looking forward to their date as much as he was. His dates with Viola had been more... unique, but he was interested in trying some of the things he read about.

"I am hopelessly uncool, so you will not have to worry about any of that with me." He tried to think of Luke and all that was coming to him was a vague flyer. "He's in drama with you, right? I don't think I've met him, but I have seen several productions. Rumi truly is an incredible talent. And Cricket's production is passable, I suppose."

[wewerechildrenwerenotnow]

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

[morganlittle]

“I think I just fell in love with you a little,” she joked. Mostly. “It is really fucking hard! Especially competitively.” Morgan didn’t know if he’d realised the can of worms he’d opened. “I’m a flier. You probably know that. But I’m doing so much in the freaking air. If I fall? That could be so, so bad. Aside from my strength and flexibility I have to be so focused. Distractions are… they’re a no go for this.”

“Of course! I’m really excited for this. I think it’ll be so fun.” She was sure she wouldn’t be able to get it out of her head. The anticipation of a real date with Jordan would be so much.

“It is,” she agreed. “I love making gingerbread. My mom and I would do it on Christmas Eve when I was little. We’d decorate them and leave them for Santa. Obviously we don’t leave it for Santa anymore but they’re some of my favourite Christmas memories. You can always join in some of my traditions.” She’d welcome him with open arms. So would her mom. Morgan just knew she’d adore him. “Yeah. It just hits, right? Can’t get enough.”

[jordanutley]

Jordan broke out in a coughing fit. He knew she was kidding, but the weight of the words hit him nonetheless. The fact that it could one day be true was overwhelming. His last relationship had ended in such an odd place, it was difficult to imagine experiencing that rollercoaster was someone else. But the fact that it was Morgan, softened the impact of it. "Exactly, it's an incredibly complex sport that demands a great deal from its performers. It's a real shame that misogyny has made people look at it differently."

He shuddered at the thought of her injuring herself. He knew it was a risk, he'd seen the documentaries, but he didn't want her to be in that kind of danger. Then again, he hadn't wanted Viola to be in danger either. Ultimately, it was never his decision. It was theirs. "I hope that you stay injury free. I do know how hard it is, however, to keep yourself safe in such a difficult sport."

"I do as well," he smiled. Jordan was excited to scroll through websites for recipes that were particularly good to do with someone else. He liked the idea of them weaving in and out of the kitchen as they made something delicious together. "I'm sure it will be spectacular."

"Thank you," He was always staggered by Morgan's kindness. She was so welcoming to anyone that was brave enough to be vulnerable with her. It would be an honor to be invited into her Holiday celebrations. "If it's not too much trouble, I'd love to experience some of that with you and your family. If you'll have me."

He relished the warmth of the cup around his hands. "It absolutely does."

[wewerechildrenwerenotnow]

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

[morganlittle]

“Thank you Jordan.” Morgan dipped her head bashfully. “For the compliment but acknowledging the sport of it. So many people think it’s just dancing. They have no idea.” It meant a lot to her that he did. She’d struggle if she had to justify that to someone she was dating. If she had to prove the athleticism it took to do what she did. It was the thing she loved doing most. He just saw it, and that was everything.

Morgan was a little worried about what he might be able to make with chopping and something in a jar, but he looked so hopeful. “Do you want to do it together?” she asked him. “I know how to do a thing or two in the kitchen.” Nothing like what her mom could do, but she couldn’t have too many talents.

She ran through all the fruity desserts she could think of. “What about a peach cobbler?” Morgan asked, looking at him hopefully. “My mom taught me this amazing recipe last Christmas. We could have that with some vanilla ice cream?” It wasn’t chocolate, and it went well with cobbler. She was hungry just thinking about it. She took a sip of her hot chocolate to distract herself. “This is delicious by the way. Thank you.”

[jordanutley]

"I was introduced to it by the seminal classic, Bring It On, but I became compelled by it when I learned about the athleticism." He smiled softly. Jordan had become a scholar on it after spending time with Jordan and it terrified him as much as it thrilled him. "It is the most dangerous sport in the world and you make it look so easy. That takes an incredible amount of skill and discipline. I am in awe of your strength, both mental and physical."

It had never occurred to him that they could cook together. He needed to re-examine his gender biases. Just because men cooked on a date to seem impressive, didn't mean that it was actually a special act. Working together would be even better. "I would enjoy that a lot. Thank you for offering."

He took a sip of his hot chocolate. The holidays at his house were usually particularly lonely. His mother got time and a half as accidents spiked across town. "I would love that. I'm afraid I don't have many Christmas traditions, but I have heard that baking is traditional." He hoped that didn't come across too sad, but it was simply the truth. "You're quite welcome. There is something about a hot chocolate at Christmas time that always feels uniquely pleasant."

[wewerechildrenwerenotnow]

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

[morganlittle]

“It’s mutual,” she promised him. Morgan missed the warmth when it was gone, but she still had her fingers linked with his. She gave his hand a squeeze and started walking again.

Morgan giggled. “That’s okay. We can leave the athletics to me if you’d prefer.” She didn’t need to be doing some date-like activity to enjoy his company. Just being together was enough.

She shook her head. “Don’t be sorry, I’m not into the fancy treatment. I’d much prefer a night in. No wait staff impatient for us to leave, nobody listening into our conversations. Do you know how to cook with all that dexterity?” Morgan loved the idea of being invited to his home and getting to watch him cook for her. That sounded fucking hot. “I could bring dessert. What do you like?”

[jordanutley]

"That's nice to hear." He wasn't sure that was the right word, but he was struggling to articulate himself with his heart beating out of his chest and her hand in his. Jordan reciprocated her squeeze.

His face was getting redder. He could feel it. "If you'll allow me to say so, there is no more impressive athlete than you. It's always a joy to watch you at games." Her form was impeccable and her smile was infectious. The football wasn't bad, but she was so much more interesting.

Jordan breathed a sigh of relief. He had worried about how extravagant he could be. The best of his efforts would always be homemade. "I can open jars and I can cut with some precision. I am learning to be a better cook with youtube's help, but I started at a bit of a disadvantage." He would need to go through his recipe box and find something suitable. Thankfully, he worked with computers enough to not trust them with information he valued and he had what he needed written down on paper. "I fall more on the fruit side than the chocolate one, but I enjoy most desserts to some degree."

[wewerechildrenwerenotnow]

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

[morganlittle]

Slightly disheartened. God this boy, how was he real? She’d never met anyone sweeter. He had no idea how high he was raising the bar for any future romance. Jordan was going to ruin everyone else.

Morgan’s eyes locked on his chest, waiting a second before she felt the frantic thump of his heart through the fabric. “Oh it really is.” She let out a laugh. She’d return the favour and let him feel her heartbeat too but she was concerned that would be a lot too quickly. Unintentional second base immediately after agreeing to go on a date? Yeah too fast. They hadn’t even kissed yet.

“Right! I agree. Either you’re too focused on whatever romantic tension is brewing that you miss the movie or you’re not focused on each other at all. It’s pointless.” Morgan did like the hand holding though. But they didn’t have to be in a movie theatre for that. “Dinner sounds perfect. I like talking to you very much.”

[jordanutley]

"This is what it's like being around you. I can't seem to control it." He laughed softly. Belatedly, he realized that this was, perhaps, a strange position for a winter's afternoon. He brought their hands down slowly.

He nodded. "Exactly. When you've been together for awhile, it's a more than acceptable activity, but not in the first few weeks." Jordan did enjoy a cheeky cuddle on the couch with a film, but that was when you felt more comfortable with someone. "And I'm afraid I don't exactly have the coordination for bowling or skating. I'm all limbs."

"There are several options for dinner, mind you. We could go out or we could stay in. My mother works the night shift, so I'm frequently home alone. What I lack in overall coordination, I can make up for in dexterity. It's part of being on the robotics team." He was very proud of his ability to navigate the fiddly little wires to make machines work. It was quite an accomplishment. There was the part that he didn't want to broach, but it was necessary. He took a deep breath. "While I do think you deserve the finest table West Ham has to offer, I don't have much money. I'm sorry."

[wewerechildrenwerenotnow]

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

[morganlittle]

Morgan wanted to laugh, but she didn’t want to hurt his feelings. She felt like she was being bold but he didn’t see it in any light other than friendly. It was part of why she was starting to like him that way. He was such a gentleman. Kind and considerate and never assuming.

“You would?” Her heart started racing in her chest. It was that easy? All she had to do was be honest? She would try it more often if this was the kind of result she got.

“I’d love to go on a date with you.” Morgan stopped him and smiled up at him, not shyly exactly… but there was a vulnerability to it. She took his hot chocolate and moved it to his other hand before slipping her fingers through his.

“I think the same has been happening with me,” she told him. “Seeing you is usually the best part of my day. I’ve been worried that admitting there’s more here for me would ruin our friendship. I don’t want to do that. But I’m so relieved you feel the same.” She laughed, feeling a little giddy. “My heart is racing. Oh my god.”

[jordanutley]

He nodded his head rather vigorously. "Yes, I would." Was it strange to confirm it both verbally and non-verbally. He was out of practice with real romance. It had been several months since he'd had any reason to use whatever skills he'd acquired from dating Viola.

"I am relieved to hear it. Not that I would have been... cross with you if you didn't feel the same. I would respect you, no matter what. But I would probably have been slightly disheartened." He knew he was talking too much, but he couldn't seem to stop it. A weight had been lifted from his shoulders and he was eager to put the right steps in place before he realized it was a dream.

And then she said she was relieved and wasn't that lovely? Didn't it point exactly to their compatibility? They understood each other. It helped that she was profoundly pretty, but she was also so kind and interesting. "Mine is as well," He raised their clasped hands to sit on top of his sweater so she could feel it for herself.

"Well, what would like to do on our date? I am usually fond of dinner, but I find movies a confusing date activity. If the point is to get to know one another better, why spend two hours in a space where you can't talk? It's never made sense to me."

[wewerechildrenwerenotnow]

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

[morganlittle]

Morgan perked up in interest, not expecting he’d actually say it to her face. Her eyes grew wide and her cheeks grew hot. What did she even say to that? She looked between his eyes and his mouth a few times before she realised what she was doing and took a breath. “I think that’s the nicest thing anybody has ever said to me,” she said, her voice thick with emotion. “Thank you so much. I’d go next but I fear I am not as good with words,” she said with a laugh tacked on the end. “Thank you. What does sartorial mean by the way.”

“It’s a d… deal,” she agreed, about to say date without thinking about the flow on effect of that. This wasn’t a date. Okay maybe a friend date. But either way… she was already looking forward to the next one.

Morgan eyes snapped back over to him, trying to gauge what he felt about the idea. She didn’t answer right away, the barista slid their drinks across the counter. Morgan thanked them and held one out to Jordan. “It’s not inappropriate. Let’s walk.” she told him, wanting to clear any awkwardness before it took root. She also wanted to be out of earshot of other people. “I feel like it might be glaringly obvious, but if it’s not, I’m flirting with you.” She glanced over at him. “I think you’re great, Jordan. I’m interested in trying to see if we’re more than friends.” She bit her lip. “It’s okay if you’re not. I think we make pretty good friends too.”

[jordanutley]

He could feel his ears, that's how much blood was in them. The full scale blush was inescapable. Jordan had no idea his words could have such a profound effect. "It's alright, I don't expect anything in return. I'm simply happy to sing your praises."

There was an instant where Jordan thought that Morgan was going to ask him on a date. He ruined it with a coughing fit. By the time he was done, it was quite clear that she had not been asking him on a date which was probably for the best.

The barista had maybe the worst timing of any server in the history of the world. Jordan had a difficult time breaking eye contact when his heart was on the line. Morgan held out the cup and he grabbed it from her, fingertips nearly grazing each other over cardboard. He would not be drinking this until she answered, for fear of spilling it on himself.

He waved his arm towards the door, a gesture implying that he'd be happy to walk with her. He could barely hear her over the beating of his heart. What would she say? Had he ruined things forever?

It was a very good thing that he hadn't taken a sip of his hot chocolate, because if he had... he'd be covered in it by now. "Ah, I didn't realize that was... perhaps I'm not as observant as I think I am." He smiled at her warmly. "I would love to be more than friends. I'm not quite sure when that became what I wanted, but it has been true for at least the last few weeks and I've been trying to talk around it in case it was too much for you. I'd be very honored if you'd go on a date with me."

[wewerechildrenwerenotnow]

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

[morganlittle]

“You do?” she asked, tilting her head at him playfully. “That’s excellent feedback. Would you mind leaving me a 5 star google review? Make sure you write an example in there or people might not believe you. Or you could just tell me now, whichever is easier.”

Apologising to the barista for ordering hot chocolates. It did something to her insides, how sweet he was. It was all genuine, which made it even more agonising not to swoon on the spot. She felt ridiculous in the best way around him. “My favourite. Thank you,” she said as they moved aside. “I’ll get next time.”

Morgan nodded eagerly. “Yes! I can’t get enough of Christmas lights. They feel like magic.” She looked away from him, pretending to study the movements of the café staff. “Maybe we should romanticise January together. Try and make it better for you.”

[jordanutley]

Jordan grinned sheepishly. The idea of a review site for personalities was terrifying to him, but he could leave a novel endorsing Morgan's character. She was radiant. "I'd much rather tell you, but I will also endorse you in conversation if the opportunity comes up." The trouble was, how did he talk about her without admitting just how much he liked her? "I find you caring, brave, athletic, an excellent listener, a font of positivity, and the sweetest person that I've ever met. And that's without mentioning your excellent sartorial choices and sense of style."

"Please do. I will always welcome a free hot chocolate." Most of his spending money went to used books, though he was perpetually trading in books to get credits, then using those credits immediately. His money was scarce, but certain extravagances made life worth living.

Her eyes sparkled as though they were Christmas lights. And then she looked away and he had to school his features from showing a slight frown. But her words unlocked something inside him, "Romanticize the season or...." He licked his lips, "I'm sorry, that was probably inappropriate but do you mean as friends or something else?"

[wewerechildrenwerenotnow]

[wilywes]

That seemed like Dante. Better to stay away until they got down to brass tacks, literally. "Got it. We suffer from enough of a headache when the council’s in session.”

He thought about it. Jordan was already pulling time from his gig with Cricket to entertain their assignment. With the (secret) extra credit work on the yet-to-come Dorothy Gale, there wouldn’t be a lot of hours left for Jordan to catch his breath, much less have a social life. “How’s ten hours to start, split across each day however you want it? We can reassess as we get going. You call the play, and I do the leg work.” Wes imagined wiling away his days in the Palmer garage, building an escape route piece by piece. The excitement drummed louder. An honest try was better than no try at all.

“Nothing can beat the best, but we’ll swing for the fences anyway.”

Wes stuck out his hand, smiling with fresh enthusiasm. The guy had to be alone with his book now. Jordan Utley’s free time was about to get less and less free. “Deal?”

[jordanutley]

"Democracy is the best of the available actions but it does present its own problems when resources are as limited as ours are." Not to mention that Dante was ruling his excel spreadsheet with an iron fist. "I am doing what I can to help the bureaucrats but there have been hiccups."

Jordan gave it a moment to think over. He hated providing people with answers that he would have to later change. "I think that will work beautifully." Ten hours wasn't that large of a commitment, especially if it was on his own schedule. It felt nice to be trusted for a change.

"We do know a painter." He wasn't sure that Mia's design would be as... regimented as the Hurricane Hunters but it was guaranteed to be eye catching in some way.

He couldn't help but marvel at how much smoother this meeting was than the one he'd had with Cricket. Jordan stuck out his hand and gave Wes's a firm shake. "Deal."

(end)

[wewerechildrenwerenotnow]

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

[morganlittle]

Morgan pulled her bottom lip between her teeth, pleased at his immediate agreement. She wasn’t sure what it meant that he’d been so willing to, or that she liked it so much but… she was staring and her cheeks were heating at the realisation. Morgan nodded once, then let herself smile at him. “Good. You should always listen to me, you know. I’m rarely wrong.”

“It’s not easy,” she admitted. “That being a big reason.” She pointed accusingly at the dirty sludge lining the path. She regretfully released his arm when they arrived, rubbing her frozen hands together to try and warm them up. “Thank you, that’s really sweet of you Jordan. I’ll get whatever you’re going to have.” That felt very much like a date thing to her but she wouldn’t be the one to say that.

“Stuff like this makes winter easier. Talks in warm cafes with someone I like. Wearing the softest, comfiest clothes I own. Huge fluffy socks. Drinking hot chocolate and watching nostalgic movies wrapped in my favourite blanket.” Morgan shrugged. “Just simple things but they bring me joy. It’s better than wishing the months away which I’ve definitely done before.”

[jordanutley]

"I frequently listen to you." Jordan could have expanded but he wasn't sure it was wise. Lately, he'd found himself wanting to know her every thought and that path was fraught to say the least. "You have never steered me wrong."

He chuckled softly noting the grime around them. It was never as picturesque as Hollywood would have you believe. What a shame. He missed her touch immediately but he was grateful that he could cover any disappointment by studying the menu. He approached the counter. "I apologize because this is probably the fiftieth time you've filled this order but could we please get two hot chocolates?"

He paid the cashier and moved them over to the other counter to wait for their drinks. "Yes, I have a particular fondness for wearing sweaters and staring at Christmas lights. They make me feel...comforted through the first half of winter. It's the second half that's hard for me. There's nothing pleasant about January."

[wewerechildrenwerenotnow]

West Ham for the Holidays (Flashback and AUs)

[morganlittle]

Morgan shook her head at him. “No. It looks good like this,” she told him. Her fingers itched to reach up and adjust pieces that didn’t need fixing, a distant part of her brain acknowledging that she just wanted reasons to touch him. “Don’t cut it.”

“That sounds nice.” A small thrill zipped through her as she slipped her arm through his, deciding to take a small risk and hold onto his bicep as they walked. If he asked she’d just say it was for balance, not that she could imagine him bringing it up. He was too gentlemanly.

“Every winter I’m surprised at how cold it gets,” she said as they walked. “I normally don’t like it, but I’m trying to romanticise it this year. See if it works out.”

[jordanutley]

"Alright, I won't." Jordan cleared his throat. Was that too eager of him? He could feel a blush creeping up his neck, but he did like the idea that she found some kind of joy in the way he looked. It was nice.

He greatly enjoyed the feeling of her arm looped through his. The weight of her hands against his bicep was comforting. Almost familiar but foreign at the same time. Something he'd dreamt of but hadn't felt he could actually have.

"How is that working for you? I can't quite grasp the idea of making this picturesque. The snow gets covered in dirt so quickly and the cold can be clarifying but it mainly inspires me to get from one place to another." He opened the door to Revere's, allowing her to step through first before coming to a standstill at her side. "I'll pay for this round, it's only fair after I suggested we meet in the park."