ellie williams x female reader | eventual angst + slowburn
âââââ But we don't have to talk about it, I can walk you home and practice method acting - I'll pretend being with you doesn't feel like drowning âŞ
âââââ I'm trying to be cool about it, Feelin' like an absolute fool about it
Wishin' you were kind enough to be cruel about it - Tellin' myself I can always do without it, Knowin' that it probably isn't true âŞ
| a/n - part two!! tags are at the bottom, let me know if u wanna be added! if you enjoyed reading, please considering reblogging/leaving a comment <3 thank you!
| c/w - swearing, vague depictions of anxiety.. reader is in love with her best friend idk what to tell you!!
nearly everything that belonged to you used to belong to someone else. that's just the way things were.
you tried to find the thought comforting, but it really felt haunting.
when you moved into your house in jackson, it was like a still life museum. you couldn't help but try to imagine who lived there first, before the world went to shit. you tried to imagine what their daily life was like. how scared they must've been when...
it made you feel like you were living in a haunted house, and you were scared of ghosts.
maria was kind enough to set you up with some things that she thought you would like, but it still felt like you were living somewhere that you didn't belong.
the house felt like it was full of ghosts, so you rearranged and redecorated until it finally felt like your own.
years later, after a lot of trading and sorting through items ellie might find on patrol, you were actually pretty proud of the space that you presented for yourself. adeline once joked that you seemed to have a taste for "the frills," but you didn't mind.
you liked girly things, things that you could keep in secret and feel pretty without worrying about whether or not you seemed tough enough.
ellie had her comics, and you had your own things too.
your guilty pleasure was old magazines, filled with toxic drama, interior design tips, and how to's for all of your accessorizing needs. the pages were cheap and worn but good enough. the silly quizzes were the best part.
you liked pretending. pretending to live in that world instead of this one, wishing you could've been a girl picking out nail polish to match her outfits and deciding which color scheme suited her best. it flooded your senses with longing and never failed to give you a pit in your stomach.
it was like some kind of morbid obsession, wishing for better than what you had.
you didn't really talk about it, especially with ellie. you already knew how she felt about that sort of thing. besides, it made you feel weak. she just knew that you liked silly magazines, and would bring you them without a second thought if she had ever managed to find one.
jesse was actually the first to help you build your little collection. dina had found one on patrol, and brought it back so you could all laugh at the ridiculous headlines. when everything was winding down and you sheepishly asked if you could keep it, jesse seemed to take note.
besides ellie, jesse was one of your closest friends. he was a little more understanding to the sensitive side of you, which you appreciated. you hated feeling like you had to defend every little thought or feeling, to prove you weren't weak.
you'd been spending more time together as of late, especially since his patrol schedule was pretty much opposite of dina's.
you hated when they fought, always over something small and immature and it left you feeling like a child stuck in the middle. any group hangouts were typically reserved for when dina and jesse were on - so according to the news you had received from ellie, things were looking up.
when a knock at your door earned your attention, you jumped to answer it right away. you already knew who you were expecting.
"morning," you grinned as you held the door open. "are you coming in or am i coming out?" you wore shoes just in case, standing in the doorway.
"you're coming out," jesse replied, wearing a light jacket that he would most likely shed later. summer would be here soon, and the change in weather was certainly improving the mood of everyone in jackson.
you nodded once and tugged a sweater over your arms, closing the door behind you as you stepped outside. you loved mornings like this, warm and peaceful. it felt full of promise.
"where to?" you questioned, allowing jesse to take the lead. he grinned when he replied.
"the stables. hope you're not wearing your best clothes."
you scowled but only as a joke. you weren't wearing your "best" anything but even if you were, it wouldn't have mattered.
"you know i never mind," you chirped, bumping jesse's arm. "how come?"
"we're training more people for patrol so we might need more help in the stables for a bit. think you're willing to give an extra hand when you aren't wrangling the children?" jesse asked, raising an eyebrow as the corners of his lips turned upward.
there was somewhat of a school in jackson, and during the week you helped out with the younger kids. there weren't many, but enough so that they were glad to have your help.
"i would love to help," you said honestly, and jesse's smile turned sly.
"i know that," he replied. "that's why i already signed you up."
you snorted, rolling your eyes at his confident response. "whatever. i would've helped regardless, anytime."
"i know," jesse repeated. "thanks, kid."
this made you roll your eyes again, scoffing. there was barely even an age difference.
"you sound like joel." you wrinkled your nose, tilting your head. "all of you patrol people have such a complex," you grumbled, trying your very best not to smile.
"yeah, yeah." jesse slung an arm over your shoulders, causing you to gasp at the audacity. "you love us."
"us?" you questioned, falling into step with him.
jesse couldn't contain the shit-eating grin that plastered itself onto his face. "us. me, dina... ellie."
you laughed once, loud and embarrassed.
"you're so full of it," you replied, stepping out from under his arm.
"what? what did i say?"
"you're not funny. besides, i'm actually very upset with you," you confessed, staring down at your shoes while you walked.
your shift in tone was enough to concern jesse, and he almost seemed bewildered as he questioned you.
"what? why? what did i do?" he slowed his pace, waiting for you to respond.
you waited just a moment to linger it over his head before grabbing his arm, shaking it while you bounced on your feet like an excited child.
"for not telling me that you have a girlfriend!" you gushed, causing jesse to roll his eyes and quickly walk away from you.
"what's her name? what does she look like? is she gonna meet your family?" you continued on as jesse swatted at you. "you know i had to find out from ellie?"
"you're ridiculous," jesse grumbled.
"and you're keeping things from me?" you were really playing it up, finding satisfaction in the way he shook his head.
"you know, you're not funny," jesse mocked.
you laughed, catching back up with him. "really though, is everything all good?"
a small smile slipped in the place of jesse's scowl. "all good," he confirmed softly.
jesse seemed content so you let that be enough, finishing your walk to the stables in peaceful silence.
you didn't need much instruction since you were already quite familiar with the tasks. instead, it was mostly jesse explaining which horses would be in and out and when. you carried on with some light maintenance, chatting through each chore. jesse didn't really need to stay and help, but you appreciated the conversation.
"so," you started, placing a bucket of supplies on the ground. "what're we doing tonight?"
"huh?" jesse huffed, looking uncharacteristically caught off guard.
"the four of us," you clarified, brushing your palms on your pants. "i figured since things were cool again that we could finally hang out," you explained, though your use of finally might've been a bit overdramatic. jesse and dina were broken up for about a week, which meant a week of splitting your time between the two of them.
though lately you've been seeing less of dina, maybe because of her and ellie having plans or similar schedules.
"oh!" jesse exclaimed, the sudden loudness catching you off guard. "right. well, you know," jesse stammered.
you raised an eyebrow, waiting for him to put together a coherent sentence that wasn't just him shrugging his shoulders and shaking his head.
"you know," he repeated, even though you obviously didn't. "dina and i just thought that maybe... it would just be the two of us tonight. to um," jesse coughed. "catch up?"
you nodded silently, eyes wide with embarrassment. "of course!" you choked out, desperately wanting to save jesse from any more you know's and awkward stammering.
"hey, maybe tomorrow night," jesse offered, awkwardly clapping you on the shoulder. "you'll still hang with ellie, right?"
you nodded again, kicking your shoe against the ground.
you hoped that ellie would want to see you again, even though you just slept over. the matter wouldn't usually even be a factor, but you felt different lately. a little weird, like you were bothering her too much or something.
"for sure," you muttered, tossing a rag into the bucket with a clang.
jesse was quick to catch your change in tone.
"did something happen?" he questioned, leaning against a stable door.
his question felt like an assumption and you found yourself growing insecure as if everyone had noticed that something was different too.
you wanted to confide in him, you should've confided in him, about how ellie could be so hot and cold and was it normal to get stomach aches whenever you were around her?
instead, you forced out a short laugh and shook your head.
"'course not. she'll probably just sleep after she gets back."
jesse studied you briefly before kicking his weight off of the door, brushing his hands together.
"right. well, dina will probably be back soon so i should..."
"go on," you grinned, waving him away.
"you wanna come with?" jesse offered, knowing ellie would be returning as well.
"i actually think i'll stick around here. for... a little bit," you responded shyly, but jesse already knew why. "go on," you encouraged. "go!"
you watched as jesse walked away, casual at first but his stride turned into a sprint when he turned the corner, assuming he was out of view.
you laughed to yourself, standing awkwardly in the now empty stable. ellie would show up soon enough, which was good. you wanted a chance to talk to her. you were starting to feel pretty weird about how often you slept in her bed while she left for patrol in the morning.
you waited around a bit, standing awkwardly in the middle of the stables until you started to feel stupid and instead made yourself look busy. you rearranged some cleaning supplies in the buckets, and even wiped stall doors that you had already cleaned, just to look busy.
of course, ellie didn't appear until you were seemingly making small talk with a horse in the stable.
"-like it better when the weather is warm, right?"
ellie snorted, the sound cutting through the otherwise silent atmosphere that was only filled by your own chattering and the occasional horse sigh.
"who are you talking to?" ellie questioned, her tone lazy and amused.
ellie already knew, of course, but the startled look on your face was priceless.
"how was patrol?" you asked awkwardly. ellie led shimmer into the stables as you spoke.
"uneventful," ellie answered simply.
"that's good, right?" you asked, coming up to pet shimmer as she was being placed into her stall.
"uh, yeah, i guess," ellie shrugged, her tone sounding distant.
you deflated, just a little. maybe she needed some space.
"i'm gonna... get going," you announced, a little quieter than you intended but you had found your footing by the end of the sentence. finally, ellie turned and looked at you.
"what? you've been hanging around but now all of a sudden i'm here, and you're leaving?" ellie questioned, her eyebrows pinching together.
"just don't wanna be in the way," you replied, not knowing if you should take a step closer or a step further away.
"please," ellie huffed. you weren't sure if it was kind or insulting.
please like you're always in the way and don't seem to mind, or please like you're never in the way?
you opened your mouth, almost to ask for clarification, but the thought alone made your cheeks burn.
"i'm serious," you said instead, but didn't make any effort actually leave.
âof course you are,â ellie said, rolling her eyes. you caught the hint of a smile on her face though, just before she turned her back to you.
silent minutes ticked by while ellie was busy, and it was only awkward because you truly couldn't decide if you should just leave or stay. after the hesitation it seemed quite obvious that you would stay, but the dilemma made your face grow hot anyway. when did you start overthinking your interactions with ellie so much??
you really didn't want things with ellie to start being complicated, everything else was already complicated enough.
who was at fault, anyway? or was it simply nothing other than growing restless as the days grew longer?
your thoughts did a better job of occupying you than you had expected, because ellie blinked at you, unmoving.
"are you coming or what?" she asked, with that same unreadable tone that she seemed to love using lately.
you blinked. then nodded.
is this how things were going to be now? is this how they always were, you were only just now noticing?
you almost physically shook your head at the thought.
"coming where?" you asked instead.
ellie shrugged, something like a smile twitching at her lips.
you couldn't tell if she was trying to force a smile, or hide a real one and what the fuck, when did you start having so much trouble reading her?
"we could see joel," you suggested, trying to sound more upbeat than you had felt. you were in such a good mood yesterday, where did it go?
ellie raised her eyebrows at you.
"it's been a long time since we all had dinner together, just the three of us," you said nonchalantly, not wanting it to sound like a hint.
"yeah, well," ellie muttered, her gaze dropping to the ground. "a bit early for dinner, don't you think?"
"that's not really the point, but okay," you dismissed.
"what is the point then?" ellie asked, her voice suddenly more loud and pointed compared to just a few seconds ago.
the immediate switch in her demeanor caused your eyebrows to pinch together. "i thought you were.. doing better?"
the look on ellie's face was all of the confirmation that you had needed. it was the kind of expression that made you feel guilty for even bringing it up.
"sorry. i just thought.. you know, the boots," you practically stammered, not wanting ellie to be annoyed with you.
"'just being nice," ellie replied tightly, to which you nodded solemnly in return.
"forget it then. sorry. i shouldn't have mentioned it," you spoke, wiping your palms on your pants.
the fight, or, whatever it was that happened between ellie and joel was possibly the biggest and only secret that ellie had ever kept from you, to your knowledge. she was so frustratingly vague about it, skating around answers and reasons as to why joel didn't seem like her joel anymore.
they were friendlier now, more so than right after it had happened, but still it felt strained. it had practically happened overnight, much to the confusion of nearly everyone around the two, and things were still not back to the way in which they used to be.
you missed the dinners.
truthfully, you still had dinner with joel occasionally. you weren't sure if ellie knew, but you had never mentioned it to her.
considering, ellie wasn't the only one keeping secrets.
"forget it," ellie repeated quietly. for a moment, she looked kind of awkward, like she was trying to think of something else to say.
it actually sort of made you feel better.
the silence that followed lingered, but not too long, making it possible to recover from.
"let's just get out of here," ellie mumbled, so quietly that you nearly missed it. she began walking without even glancing back at you, surely assuming that you would just follow.
and you did.
you almost tripped over your own feet when you realized how seamlessly you would follow her without another word. it was dangerous, nearly.
"we could go to tipsy?" you suggested lightly, trying to catch up to ellie so it didn't seem as though you were trailing after her.
at your suggestion, ellie snorted.
"what, tough day or something? it's the afternoon," ellie denied, and you were simply grateful that the lighthearted teasing tone had returned to her voice.
"maybe another time. jesse and dina could come, we could make it a thing."
ellie raised an eyebrow, peering sideways at you as your lazy steps fell into sync.
"a thing," ellie repeated softly, shaking her head with a soft chuckle.
"is something wrong with that?" you questioned, squinting your eyes as the bright sun invaded your sightline.
"huh? no. just cute the way you always try to like... i don't know, make an event out of things," ellie explained.
your cheeks warmed, but the guise of the heat helped it to go unnoticed.
cute.
you didn't want ellie's words to linger, so you scrambled fast.
"hey, i still need to debut my new skirt, right?" you managed.
"that you do," ellie sighed. "or you could just- i don't know, hear me out.. just, put it on?"
you frowned at her teasing, even though it made your heart swell with affection. "that's boring, ellie. don't you know me at all?"
"best of all, actually," ellie retorted. you opened your mouth to fire back a reply, but nothing came.
ellie was right usually, always, when it came to you. she knew you better than anyone. in the world that you lived in, it was practically the best gift that you could give to someone that you cared for. vulnerability, loyalty. the ability to trust and be trusted. being known and feeling seen was like a reward.
sure, jackson was your home. but you weren't sure how much it truly would feel like home if ellie wasn't there.
it was funny, sometimes you had forgotten that you hadn't actually known ellie your whole life.
sometimes, you pathetically wondered what things might've been like if you had known ellie forever.
a few years ago, when ellie was prone to more laughter, she would tell fabricated stories about your friendship if you had met before. you would never forget the look on her face the first time that you had confided in her about the mistreatment from the QZ crowd.
"i would've fucked 'em up," ellie said solemnly, causing you to laugh in disbelief.
"what? ellie, i was... thirteen. you would've been too."
"yeah, and? i would've fucked them up. and then..-"
she would continue until you were in a fit of giggles, wheezing through laughter.
neither of you had much of a childhood, but ellie had some lucky moments. your time together though, it almost felt healing. despite everything.
"i know," you said finally, falling short of thinking up a witty response.
"you don't need to make any stops today, do you?" ellie questioned suddenly.
an evident look of confusion crossed your face as you answered. "hm? you mean addie? no, why?"
"just wondering," ellie grumbled, and your lips twisted into a teasing smile.
"why do you get so weird about her?" you questioned, closing your fingers around her wrist to keep her walking pace in tune with your own.
"i don't get weird," ellie disagreed, her tone bordering on childish. "i just feel like she's always judging me or something."
"judging you?" you laughed, the sudden loudness cutting through the hazy, quiet afternoon of jackson. "ellie, adeline does not judge you."
"she looks at me funny," ellie complained, wrinkling her nose.
"she does not!" you released your hold on ellie's wrist, limply wacking her arm instead. ellie only reacted by rolling her eyes.
"besides, if she looks at you funny, she probably has a reason for it," you contemplated with a click of your tongue.
"what? what did i do?" ellie questioned, her cheeks turning red.
you laughed again, loud, causing ellie to reach over and shove your side. you only momentarily stumbled, the clumsy reaction not halting your laughter.
"whatever. see you later," ellie grumbled, making no effort to walk ahead of you.
"okay, see you later," you chirped, settling your giggles but the aftermath still made your cheeks sting. ellie glanced at you quickly, and you could tell that she was wondering if you were actually going to leave.
your hand accidentally brushed against ellie's and you moved to put some distance between your bodies, ignoring the way that it sent jolts through your body.
"are you gonna stay again?" ellie asked, her tone sounding a little too forced to be nonchalant, but the attempt was there.
"at yours? sure. i feel like i haven't slept in my own bed in ages," you responded.
"you don't have to come," ellie said simply.
"no, it's not a bad thing," you clarified. really, it wasn't.
"i could come to yours?" ellie asked, a look crossing her face that you couldn't quite depict, almost like she had remembered something. maybe she didn't want to risk a run in with joel, as your dinner comment had unsettled her.
"only if you want," you shrugged.
"just let me grab some stuff first," ellie told you, to which you silently obliged with a nod of your head.
*:ｼďžâ§*:ｼďžâ§
"you're... okay, you're doing it wrong." ellie's snappy tone caused you to huff.
"i'm doing exactly what you said."
"no, you're not listening."
"you're not explaining!"
ellie rolled her eyes, moving to sit closer to you on the floor.
"your fingers are supposed to stay down, right here," ellie delicately pressed your fingers into place as you hold her guitar. you have to swallow hard, willing yourself not to react to her touch.
"one finger per fret, like this," ellie explains, her voice softer as she regained her patience.
"you know i'm never gonna be good at this," you complained, letting your fingers go limp under ellie's pressure.
"then why do you keep saying that you want to learn?" ellie questioned, sitting back and dropping her hands to her lap.
"because i want to be good at it," you sighed. you stretched your arms, handing the guitar to ellie. "it wouldn't be the same anyway. i just like when you play for me."
ellie's cheeks go crimson. "shut up."
she strummed anyway, showing you how the song that you were 'attempting' to learn was supposed to sound.
you leaned your back against the side of your bed, the wooden floor beneath you providing little comfort. ellie explained chords as the dreamlike sounds filled your bedroom. you listened intently, more focused on the sound of ellie's voice than the actual information that it was providing.
you spend a lot of nights like this, being the only two people in the world, the moon being your only light until you fall asleep.
your curtains, dingy and laced, were drawn back purposefully for that very reason, you had admired the late sunset as the moon finally began to peek its way into the night sky.
the moon, the sound of ellie's voice, the feeling of your surroundings seeming slightly fuzzy from how tired you were.. you wished you could bottle up these moments and keep them forever.
in these moments, when you watched her, your feelings seemed clear as day. ellie's eyebrows furrowed in concentration, the way her fingers seemed to strum effortlessly on the guitar, the little strands of hair that kept escaping her bun and falling into her face.
surely you loved her. there was simply no other way around it.
when it was dark, you could think it over and over.
i think i love her. i really think i might love her. it would make your pulse quicken and your insides explode, but the thought was fathomable. for some reason though, during the day, it couldn't even be a question. you would deny it. you wouldn't even allow the thought to slip into your mind as long as you could help it.
you really, truly weren't sure why it made such a big difference.
"i love it," you murmured, referring to the song that ellie was playing.
"i remember," ellie replied, feeling the need to whisper though she wasn't exactly sure why. "it's why i learned it, anyway."
ellie said it so simply, so casually, that you wouldn't have given it a second thought until you noticed the way that she refused to meet your gaze, even after she stopped playing.
"maybe i will be good at it one day," you hummed.
"maybe," ellie snorted. "if you ever get any patience."
"says you," you replied with a frown. "i'm super patient," you argued, but you had a hard time believing your own words. not that you were determined to change ellie's mind, anyway. your thoughts were elsewhere.
"maybe," ellie mumbled suddenly, catching you slightly off guard. you slip off into your own thoughts entirely too easily. "if you're always with those kids. i couldn't fucking stand it."
"i guess that's true. it just feels.. different? i don't know." your slight laugh turns into a yawn as you shake your head. "jesse told me you guys are trying to put more people on patrol?"
ellie nodded, rolling her eyes. "yeah. 'been a pain in the ass, that's for sure."
"that bad, huh?" you questioned, toying with the hem of your cardigan that you had thrown over your pajamas.
"i'm just.. i don't like the teaching stuff. i just want to get it done, you know?"
you nodded, and wondered if that's why ellie has seemed more exhausted than usual. "i get it. you can't blame maria for pairing people with you, though."
"i wish she wouldn't."
"yeah, but ellie, you're one of the best. you know that."
ellie shook her head, causing more strands of hair to frame her face. you could've laughed at her dedication to leaving the few strands still pulled back in a bun, instead of just taking it out entirely.
"maybe i should sign up," you said, partly joking. "finally give patrol a real try.
"no," ellie responded firmly, a little too quickly. you had only been kidding, you knew you would be no good, but regardless her reaction was a little much.
"why not?"
"because you can't.. you're not.. it's just, not your thing, alright?" ellie huffed.
you crossed your arms and wanted to be offended but ellie was right. you were no good for it. still, you rolled your eyes and refused to make eye contact until your name slipped from ellie's lips like an apology.
"just forget it, alright?" ellie pleaded, her voice regaining its softness.
you looked at her, the lighting was dim but your eyes were adjusted to the dark that had fallen over the room. she felt the most familiar like this, like your ellie.
ellie was softer in the moonlight. maybe she felt more like herself in it, too. the way she looked now - messy hair, pink cheeks, almost gave you a dreamlike feeling as if you could spill your guts to her and everything would be fine.
"alright," you murmured, allowing your eyes to lock with ellie's green ones. the darkness was safe, you wouldn't shy under her gaze. you were brave. "i was only kidding anyway. and i know that you only said no because you know that i would be the best at patrol and steal your crown."
"okay, you need to go to sleep," ellie replied simply. she stood from the floor, stretching and fidgeting with her hoodie.
"you hate when i have fun," you mumbled bitterly as ellie crossed to your window, closing the curtains. they didn't provide much coverage, but the room was suddenly consumed with less light than before.
"you hate when i'm right." ellie reached her hand down to you, and you allowed yourself to be pulled up from the floor. ellie pulled back the bedding as you discarded your cardigan onto the floor.
there was a couch in the living room. plenty of blankets and pillows for a comfortable enough spot on the floor. sharing the bed was never a discussion, you just did. you never really considered otherwise. it didn't really seem like ellie ever did either. if she did, she didn't show it.
you tried to swallow your feelings as you slid into bed next to ellie, wondering if it was normal to always share a bed like this. wondering if it was normal to always overthink it.
"if i threw my sweater on the ground like that, you would be pissed at me," ellie remarked. you could hear the smile in her tone.
you couldn't help but roll your eyes at her exaggeration, and you hoped that she could see it. "bullshit, i would not."
despite your tone, you wanted nothing more than to reach out and swipe away the strands of hair covering ellie's face.
you honestly could have. you knew ellie wouldn't have minded, not in the privacy of your dim room. you would have, but it felt wrong if your feelings weren't purely platonic. you couldn't live in denial forever, at least not when it came to your feelings for ellie.
"liar," ellie mumbled, leaning on her arm. the proximity was daunting.
you couldn't do anything but shake your head. you certainly liked to keep a tidy space, not much like ellie, but you didn't mind her stuff around your room one bit.
"huh, that's what i thought," ellie said with a satisfied huff, as if your silence could be taken as agreement.
your brows furrowed instantly. surely she could read your expression.
"quit it," you sighed. "you're making things up. and being difficult," you added.
ellie shook her head, the remnants of her bun bobbing around the back of her neck.
"don't know what to tell you babe," she replied, the sarcasm in her voice prompting an eye roll from you.
"shut up and go to sleep," you complained, picking up your pillow and tossing it over her face.
"ow, what the hell?" ellie whined. she was genuinely making a fuss and you laughed plainly at her. maybe she really hadn't changed that much over the years. at least not when it was just the two of you.
"don't say ow. pillows don't hurt," you said simply. your lack of concern made ellie's jaw drop as she leaned forward and twisted to the side, looking over you as you rested your back against the soft mattress.
ellie was practically looming over you. you stifled a nervous giggle but didn't bother tearing your eyes away from ellie's.
she stared at you for a moment, any hint of a joke on her face quickly leaving. ellie looked like she was going to say something at first, but maybe she had forgotten or changed her mind because she only remained silent as if she were studying you.
the steadiness of her gaze began to make you uncomfortable as nerves swirled around your stomach. ellie's eyes flickered over your face, and you would've done anything to read her mind. was she actually annoyed or was it something else? ellie's lips parted slightly and your breath hitched, guilty once again for the thoughts clouding your mind.
you sat up to break the tension, say a stupid joke maybe, but you moved too quickly and your face was too close to ellie's now. before you had a moment to feel embarrassed, ellie pressed a palm to your chest and promptly shoved you back down. you fell back against the bed with a huff.
the moment of whatever it was was quickly erased as ellie tore her gaze away from you and settled back into her spot.
you didn't speak again and neither did ellie. she simply handed you your pillow and turned on her side, putting her back to you. you remained still for too long, trying desperately to settle your breathing.
you held a heavy hand over your chest, pressing down firmly as you attempted to set your mind straight.
thoughts of just friends, don't fuck up- plagued your mind for only what you could've assumed to be hours on end.
*:ｼďžâ§*:ｼďžâ§
you left ellie alone in your bed that morning.
you tried not to wonder how it would make her feel as you pulled on your cardigan from the floor and tip toed out of the room.
she must've been exhausted.
the mornings were still cold before the sunshine had a chance to warm up the earth around you, so you walked quickly through the quiet streets of jackson.
there were some people, of course, out and about, but not quite as often as usual considering it was the weekend.
you were lucky.
you were lucky to know ellie and lucky to have ellie. that could be enough. you never wanted to lose her, so you could never do anything that would cause you to lose her. you were lucky, and you would be happy to swallow your feelings and keep a secret as long as it resulted in your friendship always remaining.
your hands balled into fists at your sides, mentally pushing away any stray, worrying thoughts.
"where are you goin' all dressed up this morning?"
you halted at the familiar voice, your cheeks sheepishly growing warm at the teasing. regardless, your smile was genuine.
"to dina's, i think," you replied, turning to meet tommy. you looked down at your pajama pants and top, realizing the cardigan didn't disguise it as much as you had hoped.
tommy had been the first person to ever give you a break. even though you were already a teenager when they brought you into jackson, tommy and joel practically raised you up more than anybody else ever had. with adeline hollis included, they were the closest thing to family you ever had.
"everything alright?" he questioned, frown lines deepening.
"of course, why?" you responded, squinting curiously at the older man.
"oh, nothin'. just, ellie isn't with you is all."
you swallowed hard, swatting at the air to distract from the fact that your smile had tightened. "she's sleeping!" then, for good measure, you changed the subject. "are you getting back from patrol?"
"yes ma'am," tommy replied in a way that drew a laugh out of you.
"you better go get some sleep too then," you warned, and he waved you away.
"go on, get outta here," tommy gruffed, sending you on your way.
your steps were more hurried now and you bounced nervously on your feet when you reached dina's front door.
you figured it was your best bet.
you knocked three times, and you only had to wait a few moments before the door creaked open an inch.
"hey honey, what's the matter?" dina inquired, eyebrows rising in concern as she looked at you.
you noticeably deflated. "what? why does everybody keep asking me that?" you laughed, and it sounded a little too forced. "i'm fine!"
dina scanned your features but visibly relaxed at your words, opening the door wider. "what's up then?"
"i was wondering if- hi jesse," you cut yourself off as his figure appeared in the doorway.
"is everything okay?" he asked, placing a gentle hand on dina's shoulder.
you groaned, causing a look of bewilderment to cross jesse's face.
"she's fine," dina murmured, offering you a small smile.
"i just wanted to ask if you guys wanted to go to the tipsy bison. with me. and ellie, probably." you offered, clasping your hands together in front of you.
"it's pretty early, i don't think seth would even- ow!"
dina cut jesse off with a jab. "when?" she asked, which pleased you very much.
"meet at sunset?" you suggested hopefully, eyes darting between the couple.
you were thrilled when they agreed. of course, they had said, and you left them to enjoy their morning.
on your walk back to your house, you forced yourself to breathe steady. ellie would probably be awake, and that was fine. you were friends, and that was fine. lucky. the best gift you could ask for.
you plastered a smile on your face, swallowing down every negative feeling and emotion.
girls against god - cowgirl!ellie williams x cowgirl!reader
summary: men shouldnât be scared of god, they should be scared of two girls with something to prove. (western!au)
pairing:Â cowgirl!ellie williams x cowgirl!reader
word count: ~4.7k
c/w: major descriptions of violence, religious imagery, allusions to abuse, m*n, angst, language, emotional constipation, historical inaccuracies probably, implied sex, fluff?? no one is really a good person in this, kinda dark??
song inspo: âgirls against godâ - florence and the machine
a/n: yâall wanted more cowgirl!ellie so this is it I guess? Iâm tired and Iâm still in a bit of a slump, but Iâll try and get part 3 of thoroughfare out sometime during the weekend. thank you for being patient with me. as always I hope you enjoy and let me know what you think <3
masterlist
When you were little, couldnât of barely been ten, you remember that there was a man that used to visit your town. He called himself Father John and presented himself as a religious man; he liked it when people knelt at his feet, liked it when he moved people to tears. You think of this man, you try not to because that would give him too much power, but you think of him when you see a man with a violent streak which meant you thought of him often. You see Father John in the men who viewed their anger as some sort of birthright, that because they were men they were justified in their anger.Â
But while men like Father John could claim they knew anger, they did not know hunger. Not the way that you do, not the way the other girls in your town do, and not the way the girls in the other towns Father John visited knew.Â
They did not know what it meant to bite your tongue and having to learn to like the taste of blood.Â
They did not know what it meant to dig nails into palms until crescent moons are embedded into skin.
And they did not know that staring at a ceiling late at night, tears leaking from your eyes and holding your breath so you donât release a guttural scream, was an act of defiance in itself.
ę° âď¸ ęą ŕŁŞđ × 01 â where it all begins.
summary : summer is back in full swing, which means youâre back to being a camp counselor for moody, grumpy and hormonal middle schoolers. this summer however, is different! camp harmony hills has been renovated and the group of kids this year seem slightly more pleasant. not to mention, you have not one but two girls crushing on you. whew! butâŚsomething still is different about this yearâŚthe rumors are back and things seem a little. odd.
currently playing â this playlist
wc : 12.0k
warnings : pinning , jealousy , awkward tension? , ellie being mean to a kidđ, ellie being awkward, banter (lots of it because i live laugh love banter!), mentions of c*m (itâs for a joke plsđ)
masterlist : here
note : if youâve seen this before, no you havenât!đđ˝
As the first tendrils of dawn stretched your fingers across the horizon, you stirred in the quiet cocoon of your bedroom. The soft embrace of cotton sheets clung to your skin, cocooning you in a last-minute sanctuary before the journey ahead. The faint rustle of leaves outside your window greeted them, a symphony of nature's morning yawn.
The distant chirping of birds outside served as a soothing wake-up call, signaling the start of a day filled with anticipation and adventure.
You stretched your limbs, your body still heavy with the remnants of sleep, feeling the cotton sheets cool against your skin. The subtle aroma of freshly laundered linens enveloped you, offering a comforting contrast to the crisp morning air that filtered in through the open window. With a contented sigh, you reluctantly slipped out from beneath the covers, the cool hardwood floor beneath your feet sending a faint shiver up your spine.
Padding softly across the room, you moved towards the closet, the scent of wood and aged fabrics permeating the air as you selected clothes for the day. The soft rustle of garments being gathered filled the room, and your fingers brushed against the textured fabrics, feeling the reassuring familiarity of your favourite camp counselor uniform.
Zippers murmured your lullabies, as you carefully folded shirts and neatly tucked away socks, each item placed within your rather empty suitcase.
The gentle hum of the shower provided a soothing backdrop, a curtain of warmth washing away any lingering traces of sleep. The scent of lavender soap intertwined with the invigorating tang of mint toothpaste, the combination awakening senses still half-lulled by the embrace of dreams.
The sound of your own breath, steady and determined, became your morning melody, harmonizing with the rustle of clothes being donned, each piece an armor of readiness for the day ahead.
what are you wearing today ?
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Voting ended onOct 4, 2023
Downstairs, the comforting murmur of the radio provided a gentle background hum as you descended to meet your mother. She stood in the kitchen, tousled hair framing a face still softened by sleep. The rich aroma of coffee mingled with the delicate notes of toast, a morning symphony conducted with practiced ease.
"Be safe, sweetheart," she murmured, pressing a warm kiss to your forehead. Her voice, a tender lullaby, carried the weight of both a parent's concern and the encouragement of a proud supporter. "Call me when you get there."
âMhm, I will mom.â you replied with a nod before taking a bite of slice of toast before grabbing your keys and rushing out the door.
Stepping out into the morning light, you took in the sight of your mothers car parked in the driveway. The scent of the freshly mowed grass hung in the air, a reminder of the familiar surroundings you were leaving behind. The car's leather seats greeted them with a familiar coolness as you settled in.
Before starting the engine, you took a deep breath, inhaling the crisp scent of the morning air and the subtle mix of the car's interior - a blend of leather, upholstery, and faint traces of pine-scented air freshener.
With a final glance back at your home, you started the engine, the gentle purr of the car coming to life as you pulled away from the familiar, heading towards the unknown adventures that awaited you at Camp Harmony Hills.
As you set out on the open road, the world unfurled before you like a canvas painted with shades of green and gold. The sun hung low on the horizon, casting long, dappled shadows across the asphalt. The gentle hum of the engine beneath you provided a steady rhythm.
You watched as the landscape transformed, rolling hills giving way to dense forests. Tall trees reached towards the sky, their leaves dancing in the breeze. Sunlight filtered through the thick canopy, creating dappled patterns of light and shadow that played across the windshield. The air carried the earthy scent of moss and damp soil, a reminder of the vibrant life teeming within the woods.
As you continued along the winding road, a chorus of birdsong serenaded you, the melodies of warblers and finches intertwining with the rustling of leaves. The occasional distant call of a hawk echoed through the trees, a reminder of the untamed wilderness that surrounded you.
The air conditioning hummed softly, carrying with it a subtle coolness that contrasted with the warmth of the sun on your skin. Your fingers gripped the steering wheel, the smooth leather providing a comforting familiarity. The gentle vibration of the road beneath you resonated through your hands, a tactile connection to the journey.
Occasionally, you caught a whiff of freshly cut grass as you passed by meadows being tended by diligent farmers. The fragrance of blooming wildflowers, carried by the breeze, filled the car's interior with their delicate, sweet perfume. Each inhalation was a sensory delight, connecting you to the natural world outside.
Your hands gripped the steering wheel, the smooth leather cool to the touch. The vibrations of the road transmitted through your fingers, a tactile connection to the ever-changing terrain beneath the tires.
A flask of hot coffee sat in the cup holder, offering occasional sips of warmth and caffeine. The rich, earthy taste of the brew was a comforting companion on the open road, invigorating you as you watched the miles pass by.
As the hours rolled on, you occasionally pulled over at roadside rest areas. These pit stops allowed you to stretch your legs and breathe in the distinct aromas of each location. At one stop, the scent of pine trees surrounded you, while at another, the salty tang of a nearby ocean permeated the air.
The drive was long, but each passing mile brought you closer to your destination. The sense of anticipation and the promise of new beginnings carried you forward. With each turn of the road, you felt a growing sense of connection to the natural world around you, a shared adventure with the trees, the rivers, and the endless horizon.
Finally, after what felt like both an eternity and the blink of an eye, you saw the familiar sign welcoming you to Camp Harmony Hills. The sight of the rustic cabins nestled among the trees filled you with a sense of belonging, a feeling that you were exactly where you were meant to be. You pulled into the camp, the crunch of gravel beneath your tires a fitting fanfare for your arrival.
As you approached the entrance, the towering trees seemed to welcome you with open arms, their leaves rustling gently in the breeze. The scent of pine and the distant murmur of the river told you that you were right where you belonged.
Parking your car in a designated spot, you turned off the engine and took a moment to soak in the tranquil surroundings. The camp was as beautiful as ever, bathed in the soft, golden glow of the afternoon sun. You couldn't wait to see your fellow counselors and the excited campers you'd be spending the summer with.
With a sense of eager anticipation, you opened the car door and stepped onto the gravel. As you began unloading your luggage, the weight of excitement and responsibility settled on your shoulders. The familiar task of organizing your belongings helped ground you in the present moment.
Just as you were reaching into the trunk for another bag, a sudden, unexpected touch broke the peaceful atmosphere. "Holy shit, Jesse, what the fuck?" you exclaimed, your heart racing as you turned to see the source of the interruption.
Jesse, a grin on his face, stood there with a twinkle in his eye. "Oh, c'mon, I didn't scare you that bad," he said, feigning innocence.
You couldn't help but let out a nervous laugh, a mixture of relief and annoyance. "I nearly smacked the shit out of you."
Jesse chuckled, his good-natured teasing not letting up. "More like screamed like a little girl, but yeah, okay, let's go with that."
"Whatever," you retorted, rolling your eyes. "Did you just arrive here?"
"Nah," Jesse replied, his tone more serious now. "Dina, Ellie, and I came here around an hour ago. Saw you come in and thought I should say hi."
"Yeah, hey to you too," you said, the initial shock of his surprise wearing off. Despite his penchant for mischief, you were glad to see a friendly face. "So, what's the plan for today?"
Jesse leaned against your car, looking thoughtful. "We're still getting things organized, but there's a staff meeting later. Joel wants to go over the schedule and some camp rules."
"Cool. Sounds like a plan," you said, nodding. "Let me just finish unloading, and I'll catch up with you guys later."
As you continued unloading your car, the adrenaline from the scare slowly gave way to the comforting realization that you were back at Camp Harmony Hills, surrounded by friends and the promise of an unforgettable summer.
Jesse leaned in, his tone conspiratorial. "Oh, forgot to tell you, but Abby is back this year."
"Abby? As in Abby Anderson," you asked, your curiosity piqued.
"Yep," Jesse confirmed with a nod. "Kids missed her and wouldn't stop begging Joel to get her back."
"I see. She went abroad, right? Uhm, I think Norway?" you recalled.
"That she did, but she's back, so be nice," Jesse advised, his voice laced with a hint of playfulness.
"I was never mean to Abby, what are you talking about?" you protested, feigning innocence.
"First year. The Aspen Cabin. Red hair dye," Jesse reminded you.
"Oh, c'mon, it was a harmless prank!" you defended yourself. "She was totally laughing and having fun."
Jesse raised an eyebrow, clearly amused. "She was masking her rage."
"Masking her rage, laughing, same thing," you quipped, chuckling. "There's no hard feelings between us... I think."
"Just chill on the pranks, okay? You might make her leave," Jesse teased.
"I didn't make her leave, omg!" you exclaimed, playfully exasperated. "Whatever. I'll be an angel. Happy?" you asked with a sly smile.
Jesse chuckled, giving you a friendly pat on the back. "That's the spirit. Let's go catch up with the others.â
As you and Jesse made your way toward the cabin, the weight of your belongings felt like a heavy burden. You turned to him and asked, "Can you help me with my stuff? It's kinda heavy."
Jesse flashed you a playful grin and replied, "Of course, my majesty."
"I'm not a princess, and stop bowing. God, you're so annoying, Jesse," you groaned, shaking your head.
"Seems like you missed me.â
"Did not.â
With Jesse's help, you managed to carry your belongings to the cabin without too much trouble. Upon entering the cabin, you saw Ellie inside, arranging her own things.
"Thanks, Jesse," you said, appreciating his assistance as he set down your belongings on your designated bed.
Jesse saluted at you and then made his exit, leaving you and Ellie alone in the cabin. As the door closed behind him, you turned to Ellie with a smile.
The air in the cabin seemed to thicken with unspoken tension. "Hey Els. Good to see you again," you ventured, breaking the awkward silence.
"Yeah, you too," Ellie replied, her tone noticeably dry. It was clear she was keeping a distance, and her guard was up.
"How the hell did you manage to drive here with Jesse?" you asked, trying to ease into conversation.
"Dunno. You get used to him," Ellie replied, her tone dry, avoiding eye contact.
"Right, I uhâ" you began, but your words were cut short as Dina entered the cabin.
"Hey you two, staff meeting. Joel needs us like ASAP," Dina announced, her voice carrying a sense of urgency.
"Coming," Ellie replied curtly, offering a nod in your direction. She then turned and walked out of the dorm, leaving you alone with Dina.
Dina gave you a warm smile, sensing the awkwardness in the room. "You coming?â
âYeah.â you replied with a nod, and followed Dina out of the dorm.
As you walked alongside Dina, you couldn't help but reflect on the brief interaction. It was clear that Ellie was keeping her distance, her responses clipped and guarded. You wondered what might have transpired since the last time you saw her. Did you do something to her? No, the two of you were close last summer. So what happened?
The staff room buzzed with anticipation as you, Ellie, Dina, and a few other counselors took their seats. The room was filled with the comforting scent of aged wood and a hint of freshly brewed coffee.
Joel, standing at the front of the room, cleared his throat, commanding everyone's attention. His gruff but reassuring voice filled the space, a reminder of the leader that guided this camp through countless summers.
Joel stood at the front of the staff room, his presence commanding attention. "Alright, listen up," he began.
As you took your seat, you couldn't help but glance around the room. To your left, Dina was exchanging a few quiet words with Jesse, their conversation briefly halting as they focused on Joel. Across the room, Ellie sat with an air of detached focus, her eyes fixed on Joel as if she could read his thoughts before he spoke them.
Joel wasted no time, diving straight into the heart of the matter. "Now, as you all know, this summer is going to be a bit different. We've got a few new faces and some old ones returning." He looked around the room, his gaze finally resting on Abby and Nora.
Abby's presence was a welcome sight, her familiar face a reassuring anchor. She caught your eye, offering a small smile, and you returned it, a gentle flutter of butterflies resting in your stomach. Nora, a friend of hers, sat beside her, a calm and steady presence in the midst of the excitement.
"Now, Abby," Joel continued, "You'll be heading up the adventure and activities, along with Jesse. Dina, you're in charge of team sports, and Ellie, you've got the nature and wildlife sessions."
"yn," Joel said, turning his attention to you, "You'll be handling the arts and crafts area. We've seen some of your previous work, and we're excited to have your creativity on board."
You nodded, a surge of gratitude welling up within you. The opportunity to share your passion for art with the campers was a privilege you didn't take lightly.
"As for the rest of the staff," Joel continued, "We'll have a rotation for various activities to ensure everyone gets a chance to experience different aspects of camp life."
The meeting pressed on, with Joel outlining the schedule and emphasizing the importance of teamwork and communication.
Once Joel had finished, he looked around the room with a satisfied smile. "That's it, folks. We're all set for another great summer. Let's make it one to remember."
Tess, quickly called out to the group before everyone could disperse. "Hey, wait up, everyone," she called, garnering their attention.
The group turned their focus back to Tess, curiosity evident in their expressions.
"You all saw the newspaper, right?" Tess continued, her voice steady. "If the kids ask anything about it, just say it's another rumor to scare away kids from coming here. The camp supervisor is trying to fix things.â
"Wait, what's in the newspaper?" Abby asked, her expression a mixture of confusion and concern.
Tess sighed, her expression one of mild exasperation. "The local news reported some strange occurrences near Whispering Lake. You know how the media likes to sensationalize things. We don't want the kids getting spooked, so just downplay it if they ask, okay?"
Dina chimed in. "You mean like, 'Oh, that old lake? It's just a bunch of made-up ghost stories, kid. Nothing to worry about!'?"
Tess chuckled, nodding. "Exactly. Keep the focus on the fun and adventure. Let's not let a few rumors spoil the magic of Camp Harmony Hills."
Ellie, always the joker (at least attempting to) added with a snort, "Right because little kids pissing themselves because of ghost stories isnât hilarious.â
âEllie.â Dina spoke softly, her tone practically shaking Ellie by her shoulders telling her that one, it was an awful joke and two her delivery was awful.
âKidding.â Ellie replied raising her hands in the air, causing dry and awkward laughter to ripple through the group, breaking the tension that had briefly settled in the room with something even worse. Second-hand embarrassment.
The unease was palpable, and you exchanged glances with the other counselors.
Dina spoke up first, her voice steady. "Anyways, we got it, Tess. We'll make sure to reassure the kids that they're safe here."
Jesse nodded in agreement. "Yeah, we don't want anyone getting spooked and missing out on all the fun activities we've got planned."
Abby, chimed in. "And we'll keep a close eye on the lake area to make sure everything is secure. Safety first."
Joel added his assurance. "I'll have a word with the camp supervisor and make sure they're on top of it. We want to ensure that this summer is as enjoyable and worry-free as possible for our campers."
With a collective nod, the meeting concluded, the group dispersed, each counselor making their way to their respective areas to prepare for the arrival of the campers the following day.
You caught up with Ellie as you both headed in the same direction. "Where are you heading to?" you asked, making conversation as you walked.
"Kids' dorm. Still have to clean up there," Ellie replied, her tone slightly distant.
"Ah, gotcha," you responded. "You put up the rules already?"
Ellie's eyebrows raised slightly, a hint of curiosity in her expression. "Why are you asking?"
"Just remembering the rules you put up last year," you replied with a teasing grin. "Or should I say your constitution. You put it up again this year, didn't you?"
Ellie let out an exasperated sigh, crossing her arms defensively. "I did not," she muttered quietly.
You couldn't help but chuckle at her response. With a playful pat on her shoulder, you said, "Well, if I happen to see it, you owe me free chocolate bars from the mess hall."
You then darted off towards the Wildflower Meadow cabin. Meanwhile, Ellie let out a sigh, muttering under her breath. "Fuck me." She knew all too well that you had a knack for finding things. With resigned determination, she continued on her way, knowing that it was only a matter of time before you uncovered her carefully crafted set of camp rules.
With a playful grin, you made your way into the Wildflower Meadow cabin. It didn't take long for your eyes to land on the familiar set of rules that adorned one of the walls. You couldn't help but chuckle as you read them aloud, your tone dripping with sarcasm.
"Well, well, look what we have here. It's the exact same one. The 'no summoning demons without permission' is the most dumb one on here, by the way," you remarked, shaking your head in mock disapproval.
Ellie, who had followed you into the cabin, leaned against the wall, her arms crossed defiantly. "It's smart, actually. I'm saving kids' lives here."
"Sure you are," you replied, a smirk tugging at your lips.
You couldn't resist poking fun at her as you continued to peruse the rules. "And what's this about 'mandatory nightly guitar serenades'? Are you trying to torture the poor campers?"
Ellie rolled her eyes but couldn't hide a small, amused smile. "It's all in good fun, alright? Keeps things interesting."
"Of course," you agreed with an exaggerated nod. "Because nothing says 'fun' like a campfire sing-along at 2 AM."
Ellie let out an exaggerated gasp, her hand on her chest in mock offense. "It's not my problem you're boring."
You couldn't help but chuckle. "I'd like to maintain my sanity, Els. These kids will be throwing tomatoes and booing you if you do the 2am guitar thing."
Ellie shook her head, feigning disappointment. "You lack an appreciation for my musical talents."
âMhm, whatever you say.â You replied rolling your eyes playfully before looking at the rules once again.
You couldn't contain your laughter as you read the new addition to Ellie's rule list. "This one is new. 'Limit meme references or so help meâŚ'"
Ellie sighed. âI swear to god if I have to hear another IMBOUTTACUM, Iâm throwing myself in the lake.â
You couldn't help but grin. âRight right, like anyone has said that before.â
Her eyes narrowed in feigned seriousness. âYou donât know what Iâve been through. You donât know what itâs like. Itâs hell. Crazy? I was crazy once.â
You couldn't help but chuckle. âI hate you.â
âHate is another word for love so thanks. I appreciate you too,â Ellie retorted with a thumbs-up, her tone filled with playful sarcasm.
You raised an eyebrow at Ellie's admission. "So what's the cleaning up you had to do? The cabin looks pretty clean."
Ellie, her expression unapologetic, simply shrugged. "I lied."
"I thought we were friends. Now you're lying to me? Easily too?" you replied, feigning betrayal.
Ellie chuckled. "Not my fault you're gullible."
"I hate you. The second time now," you declared, though the playful tone was evident in your voice.
"I'm soooo hurt. What ever will I do," Ellie replied, her sarcasm practically dripping.
You couldn't help but roll your eyes. "Haha, very funny. Laughing my ass off."
Before Ellie could respond, a knock on the door interrupted your banter. It was Joel, reminding you of your responsibilities.
"Hey you two," he called out, "mind going over to Mrs. Callerâs to get up some stock? We're running low in the mess halls, and the cooks need to prepare for the kids coming tomorrow."
"Sure thing, Joel.â you responded, already making your way towards the door.
The two of you left the cabin and set off to Mrs Callerâs ranch, where youâd get the vegetables, homemade jams, breads and other assortment of food that the elderly woman would put in the quaint and dainty picnic basket sheâd give to camp counsellors who often visited her ranch for bi-monthly grocery visits.
"Can you believe Abby's back? I thought she'd never come back," you mused, genuinely excited by Abby's return.
"Yeah, it's cool. She's back," Ellie replied, her tone lacking the same enthusiasm.
"I mean, last year was kinda boring without her," you continued, oblivious to the hint of jealousy in Ellie's voice.
"Wouldn't exactly say that but whatever," Ellie remarked, her tone still guarded.
"You're just in denial that maybe, just maybe, Abby is just more fun than you are," you teased, completely unaware of the nerve you were hitting.
"She isn't," Ellie countered, her voice tinged with a touch of defensiveness.
"She is. She's so not sarcastic and grumpy as you are," you pointed out, thinking it was all in good fun.
"Thought that's what girls liked these days," Ellie retorted, her words dripping with sarcasm.
"To an extent, yes," you replied, not realizing the significance of what you were saying.
"Whatâs the prâ"
"But sometimes it can be annoying. Like how many times do I say 'I hate you' in a day?" you interjected, your words cutting off Ellie's sentence.
"You're saying 'I love you' like 200 times in a day, which, again, flattering, you're obsessed with me," Ellie said, her tone teasing.
"You're delusional," you shot back, a smile tugging at your lips.
"Have you met you?" Ellie countered, her voice still tinged with amusement.
"Not a valid point," you insisted.
"Very valid point," Ellie countered, her smirk audible in her voice.
"Whatever," you replied, shaking your head in mock exasperation.
"It's okay to admit it," Ellie teased, her tone lighter now.
"I'm not delusional," you retorted, though there was a hint of laughter in your voice.
"Right, and what happenedâŚ"
"If you finish that sentence, Ellie, I will do something terrible to you tonight," you threatened, a playful edge to your tone.
"Woah, I just got the chills," Ellie said sarcastically, a chuckle escaping her.
Soon enough, the ranch came closer into view.
The ranch was a serene haven, a stark contrast to the bustling activity of Camp Harmony Hills. Stardust, the white horse, greeted them with a gentle nudge, earning soft words of affection from Ellie.
"Hey there, Stardust," Ellie cooed, her hand stroking the horse's mane.
"She's so pretty," you agreed, admiring the graceful creature.
"Yeah, she is," Ellie replied softly, her usual sharp edges softened by the presence of the gentle animal.
Before long, Mrs. Caller, the kind-hearted owner of the ranch, approached you both with a warm smile. Her face radiated kindness and her eyes sparkled with warmth.
"My darlings!" she called out, her voice filled with genuine affection.
"Oh no, Mrs. Caller, we'll come to you!" you insisted, concern etching your features as you started to approach her.
"Don't be silly! I've been given the gift to be able to still walk! I'll come to you," Mrs. Caller reassured, determination in her eyes.
Finally, she reached you and Ellie, her presence radiating a sense of calm and grace. Dressed in an apron, her hair neatly tied up in a low bun, she looked every bit the nurturing caretaker of the ranch.
"How are you two?" she inquired, her voice filled with genuine interest and care. She enveloped both you and Ellie in a warm embrace.
"We're good," Ellie replied, a small smile gracing her lips.
"Excellent. I'm guessing the two of you are here for the pick up?" Mrs. Caller asked, her gaze shifting between you and Ellie.
"Yes, we are," you confirmed with a nod.
"Come, come. Added a few extra things, since the camp will be flooded with kids tomorrow," Mrs. Caller invited, leading the way back to her cottage.
You and Ellie followed, leaving behind the grazing horses and cattle, the serenity of the ranch slowly giving way to the anticipation of the upcoming summer. The cottage exuded a cozy charm, and you couldn't help but feel grateful for the kindness of Mrs. Caller and the beauty of the ranch that would undoubtedly add a touch of magic to the campers' experience.
"Sit, I'm sure you two are hungry. I just finished baking some cookies," Mrs. Caller insisted warmly, leading you and Ellie into the cozy kitchen.
You exchanged a knowing glance with Ellie, understanding that once you sat down, you wouldn't be leaving anytime soon. It was impossible to resist Mrs. Caller's hospitality, and besides, who could say no to freshly baked cookies?
Taking your seats at the dining table, you both nodded in agreement, anticipating the treat that awaited you.
"Here you two are. Eat up," Mrs. Caller said, placing a plate of warm cookies and freshly made fruit juice on the table.
"Thanks, Mrs. Caller," you both chimed in unison, expressing your gratitude with identical smiles.
"Of course, my loves," Mrs. Caller replied with a smile that radiated warmth and love.
"So, how are you two? Any new love interests?" Mrs. Caller asked with a playful twinkle in her eye, causing both you and Ellie to choke on your cookies. Mrs. Caller's laughter filled the room as you exchanged surprised glances.
"Mrs. Caller, you can't just drop that question on us like it's nothing," Ellie managed to say between coughs, her cheeks turning a faint shade of pink.
You cleared your throat, trying to regain your composure. "Yeah, that was woah. Caught us a little off guard."
Mrs. Caller chuckled again, her eyes filled with warmth. "Well, forgive an old lady for being curious. I just want to see you two happy."
You and Ellie both nodded before downing another cookie, hoping to avoid answering any other of Mrs. Callerâs questions. Your eyes however, were drawn to a portrait on the wall. Mrs. Caller followed your gaze, a fond smile gracing her lips.
"Yes, that is my wife. Jolene," she shared, her voice filled with a tender affection. "She's beautiful, isn't she?"
You nodded, touched by the love that emanated from the portrait. "Yes, she is. You two look very happy together."
"We were. She was the light of my life," Mrs. Caller said, her eyes sparkling with memories. "She passed away a few years ago, but I still feel her presence here on the ranch."
You felt a lump form in your throat, touched by the depth of Mrs. Caller's love for Jolene. It was clear that their bond had been something truly special.
You and Ellie continued to listen attentively as Mrs. Caller shared more about the cherished memories captured in the photograph.
"See that picture?" Mrs. Caller gestured toward the portrait, her eyes filled with nostalgia. "That was the first year since we adopted Sarah together."
You couldn't help but smile as you looked at the photograph once more. In it, Mrs. Caller and her late wife, Jolene, held a young child, presumably Sarah, in their arms. The little girl had a mischievous grin, and her tiny hands were reaching out as if eager to explore the world.
"Sarah was a little rascal, as you can see," Mrs. Caller continued, her voice filled with affection. "Couldn't wait to get out of my arms. Took us about 30 minutes to take that picture. Little rascal."
Ellie and you shared a glance, both touched by the love and warmth in Mrs. Caller's voice.
"Oh my goodness! Look at me rambling again! Let me get your stuff," she said, breaking the moment with a chuckle. She retrieved not one, but two picnic baskets and placed them on the table.
"Last winter's harvest was amazing. I got to preserve a lot, so now I get to give you all a lot," Mrs. Caller explained, her eyes bright with the joy of sharing.
"Thank you so much, Mrs. Caller," you expressed your gratitude sincerely.
"Of course, of course. You two best get back before sundown. It's been strangely coming a lot quicker than usual. Very eerie," Mrs. Caller added, her tone turning more serious.
As you and Ellie prepared to leave, the weight of Mrs. Caller's words hung in the air. There was an underlying sense of unease in her mention of the early sunsets, but you couldn't quite put your finger on why it felt so unsettling. With a final round of thanks and goodbyes, you and Ellie left the ranch, the two picnic baskets filled with Mrs. Caller's preserves in hand. The woods seemed a bit quieter as you walked, the shadows lengthening with the approaching evening.
You and Ellie walked back towards your shared cabins, coming back from dropping everything off at the mess hall.
"So, Mrs. Caller's preserves, huh? We're going to be eating well this summer," Ellie remarked with a grin.
"Definitely. I'm already imagining all the delicious snacks and food the cooks can make with them," you replied, your mouth watering at the thought.
As you approached the cabins, you were faced with a small dilemma. The water in the showers tended to be hotter for the first use, making it a coveted privilege. You both knew there was only one way to settle this.
"Rock, paper, scissors?" you suggested.
Ellie raised an eyebrow, a small smile playing on her lips. "Kicking your ass by the way.â
âYeah right.â you replied with a scoff.
The two of you raised your hands in unison, ready to play. The tension hung in the air for a split second before you both made your moves.
"Rock, paper, scissors, shoot!"
You chose scissors, while Ellie opted for paper. You couldn't help but grin in triumph.
"I win," you declared, your victory evident in your voice.
"I swear to god if you finish all the hot water," Ellie threatened in mock annoyance, though there was a playful glint in her eye.
"You'll what? Nothing. Exactly. Why? Because I won," you retorted with a chuckle, reveling in your triumph.
"Whatever," Ellie replied, her eyes still dancing with amusement as she playfully rolled them.
The cabin felt comfortably familiar as you and Ellie stepped inside, the warm golden light spilling across the wooden floors. The air was filled with the scent of pine, a reminder of the surrounding forest. You could hear the distant sounds of the camp settling down for the night, the occasional laughter and chatter of counselors echoing through the night.
As you each went about your evening routine, there was a sense of ease in your movements.
The familiarity of the cabin made it feel like a second home. You changed into comfortable pajamas, brushing off specks of dirt from the day's adventures.
After a while, you both settled into your respective beds, the quiet of the cabin enveloping you. The soft creaking of the wooden floorboards beneath the weight of your movements was the only sound, a gentle reminder of the history held within the walls.
Lying there in the semi-darkness, the moonlight filtering through the curtains, you and Ellie talked. It was the kind of conversation that only close friends could have, filled with laughter, reminiscing, and moments of quiet reflection.
You shared stories from the previous summers, recalling the antics of campers and the challenges you'd faced together. The laughter that bubbled up was a testament to the camaraderie you shared. It was a comfort knowing that, no matter what awaited you in the coming days, you had each other to rely on.
As the conversation gradually lulled, you both settled into a peaceful silence. The only sounds were the faint rustling of the leaves outside and the distant call of a night bird. The air inside the cabin was cool, carrying with it the freshness of the outdoors.
"Night, Els," you finally said, breaking the quiet.
"Night," Ellie replied, her voice soft and warm.
Peace at last. Until the kids come tomorrow that is.
The knocking roused both you and Ellie from your slumber, jolting you awake in the early morning light. Groaning in unison, you exchanged sleep-filled glances.
"Answer the door, please," Ellie's voice rasped, still heavy with sleep.
"No, you go, I'm still tired," you countered, already making yourself comfortable under the blanket.
"You're closer to the door," Ellie argued, shifting slightly in her bed.
"You're more awake," you insisted, though your eyes were still half-closed.
The persistent knocking grew louder, prompting a shared look of annoyance between you.
"Fine, I'll go," Ellie relented with a groan, finally pushing herself out of bed. She made her way to the door and opened it to reveal Jesse.
Yes, hi," Ellie greeted, her voice still tinged with sleep.
"Morning," Jesse replied, leaning casually against the doorframe.
"We're coming," Ellie assured, her patience wearing thin.
"I heard you two having fun last night," Jesse teased, raising an eyebrow suggestively.
Ellie's cheeks flushed, and she stammered, "I... we were just talking. We didn't kisâ"
"Who said anything about kissing?" Jesse interrupted, with a small smirk gracing his lips.
"That's not... I just..." Ellie stammered, her voice trailing off.
"Fuck me," Ellie muttered under her breath in exasperation.
âI'm just playing around, Ellie. You two be quick. We have things to do before the kids get here," Jesse said, his tone more serious.
"Yeah, okay," Ellie replied, clearly flustered.
"DidâŚyou two kiss?" Jesse couldn't resist one last poke.
"Bye, Jesse," Ellie said, rolling her eyes and closing the door on her friend.
"Why were you stuttering like you were lying or something?" you couldn't help but tease Ellie as you got up from your bed.
"Shut up," Ellie retorted, tossing a pillow your way in playful annoyance.
"That's like so rude," you teased.
"Get up," Ellie insisted, a mock glare in her eyes.
"A please would be nice, jeez," you countered, unable to hide your amusement. You chuckled softly as you pushed yourself off the bed.
Rolling her eyes but unable to hide a small smile, âI'm using the bathroom first."
Before you could respond, you both said in unison, "I call dibs."
As if on cue, you both dashed towards the bathroom, laughing and jostling each other in a playful attempt to reach the door first.
In the end, it was Ellie who successfully reached the bathroom first, her victory punctuated by a triumphant, "Ha!"
"You better not take long in there, Ellie!" you called out, knocking on the bathroom door impatiently. After a few moments, you heard a muffled response from the other side.
"I won't, just hold on!"
Sighing, you slumped back onto the couch in the cabin. With Ellie using the bathroom, you took a moment to reflect on the day ahead. Middle schoolers. Pre-teensâŚThe words just made you shudder.
When Ellie finally emerged from the bathroom, looking refreshed and ready for the day, you took your turn. Unsurprisingly, the water was cold. Thanks, Ellie. Having a rather cold shower, you both got dressed and the two of you wasted no time in getting to work. As camp counselors, there were preparations to be made before the kids arrived, ensuring that everything ran smoothly.
You started by helping the camp cooks pack snacks neatly in the pantry. The shelves were lined with an assortment of treats, from cookies to granola bars and fruit snacks. Working together, you organized them by type and made sure everything was easily accessible for the campers when snack time rolled around.
Ellie, with her meticulous attention to detail, ensured that the snack inventory was well-documented. It was important to keep track of how many snacks were available and when it was time to reorder supplies to ensure that no child went without a tasty treat.
After the snacks were sorted, you moved on to inspecting and cleaning equipment. The canoes and kayaks were neatly lined up by the lake, ready for use. You and Ellie made sure that each one was in tip-top condition, checking for any signs of wear and tear. Paddles were examined, life vests inspected, and ropes secured.
The archery range also required your attention. You ensured that the bows were in good working order and that the targets were set up at the appropriate distances. Safety was paramount, and you both double-checked that the safety protocols were in place and clearly communicated for the campers.
Outside the cabin, you surveyed the grounds, making sure that everything was in order. Picnic tables were cleaned, and the fire pit was ready for evening campfires. You both took a moment to appreciate the serene beauty of the camp, surrounded by the lush forest and the tranquil river.
The distant sounds of cars pulling up and buses coming to a halt signaled the arrival of the campers. It was a familiar cacophony that filled the air, a mixture of excited voices and the occasional thud of a slamming car door.
"They're here," you sighed.
With Ellie by your side, you made your way towards the entrance of the camp. As you approached, you were met by the other counselors, each wearing a mix of excitement and dread on their faces. This summer was going to be a long one.
As the first buses came to a halt and cars pulled up, the children began to spill out, their expressions a vibrant kaleidoscope of emotions. Some emerged with wide, eager smiles, their eyes sparkling with anticipation.
âWoah, this camp is huge!â
âHas anyone seen my bag?â
âThat camp counsellor is really cute.â
âIâm so hot.â
âIâm so tireddd.â
Others appeared more reserved, their curiosity tempered with a hint of shyness. They took in the surroundings with wide eyes, absorbing the sight of the camp with a mixture of wonder and uncertainty.
Then, there were those who wasted no time in breaking free from their parents' embraces, dashing towards the camp with unrestrained enthusiasm. âOkay okay mom I get it.â
âIâll miss you so much.â
Parents lingered, taking in the sight of their children's newfound excitement. Some snapped pictures, their smiles reflecting the joy they saw in their children's faces.
"You be good, okay? And listen to your counselors," one mother advised her son, her voice filled with gentle admonishment.
A father knelt beside his daughter, offering words of wisdom and a reassuring hug. "Make friends, sweetheart. Remember, we're just a call away if you need anything."
A group of friends, giggling and whispering, stood together with a mixture of anticipation and nerves. They exchanged excited glances, their backpacks slung over their shoulders.
âThis camp looks huge!â
âBro, see that girl over there?â
âSheâs hot.â
âOh my god, do you see that guy over there?â
âThis summer is going to be amazing.â
"Mom, don't forget to send me letters!"
"I promise, sweetie, I'll write to you every day.â
The influx of campers continued, their excited chatter and laughter filling the air. They all ran towards the main area where the camp counselors, along with Tess, Tommy, Maria, and Joel, were gathered.
"Alright, settle down, folks," Joel began, raising his voice just enough to capture the attention of the excited campers. "I know y'all are raring to go, but we've got some important business to attend to first."
The children gradually quieted down, their eyes fixed on Joel.
"First things first, I want y'all to give a big round of applause to your counselors. They're here to make sure you have the best summer of your lives," Joel continued, gesturing to the counselors who stood beside him.
The campers broke into spontaneous applause.
The children listened intently, their excitement palpable.
"Now, I know you're all here to have a good time," Joel continued, his voice carrying a note of earnestness, "and we're gonna make sure of that. But we also gotta make sure everyone stays safe and has a good experience."
He began to go over the rules, his tone measured and firm.
"First and foremost, we look out for one another. You see a camper who needs help, you lend a hand. We're a team here, and that means we stick together."
The campers nodded in understanding, their expressions attentive.
"Second, no wandering off alone, especially around Whispering Lake," Joel emphasized, his gaze sweeping over the crowd. "It's beautiful, but it can be tricky terrain. Always buddy up, and let a counselor know where you're headed."
A few campers exchanged knowing glances.
âYou think heâs talking about the ghost near there?â
âProbably.â
âCâmon guys itâs just a scary story.â
âWhat if itâs real?â
The whispers died down as Joel looked over to the them with a stern expression.
"Now, when it comes to the equipment, we treat it with respect. No horsing around with the canoes, and make sure to stow away your gear properly after each activity."
He looked out at the lake, the calm water shimmering in the morning light.
"Campfires are a big part of our evenings here. We gather 'round, share stories, and enjoy each other's company. But remember, safety first. No roughhousing near the fire, and always follow the counselor's instructions."
As Joel spoke, you could see the campers absorbing his words.
"And lastly, we've got a zero tolerance policy for bullying or disrespect. We're all here to have a good time, and that means treatin' each other with kindness and consideration."
His words hung in the air, a reminder of the values that defined Camp Harmony Hills.
"Now, I know that's a lot to take in, but we're here to help you every step of the way. If you've got any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to talk to one of the counselors. We're here for you."
Joel's final words were met with a round of nods and a few quiet affirmations from the campers.
After Joel finished going over the camp rules, he turned to the camp counselors with a nod, giving them the go-ahead to introduce themselves.
Maria stepped forward, her warm smile putting the campers at ease. "Hi there, I'm Maria. I'm here in the camp office, so if you ever need anything or have any questions, don't hesitate to come find me. I'm here to help make your summer as smooth as possible."
Tommy followed, "Hey, I'm Tommy, in charge of outdoor adventures, so if you're lookin' for some real excitement, you'll probably find me around."
Tess greeted the campers with a friendly wave. "Hey, I'm Tess. I'm here to help make sure everything runs smoothly and that you all have a great time. If you ever need anything or just want to chat, don't be shy. I'm here for you."
"Hey, I'm Ellie. I'll be around, helping out with a bit of everything. If you ever want to talk about anything, Iâm here I guess. Just donât be annoying about it.â Ellie chimed in, with a shrug causing some of the kids to giggle.
You stepped forward, your enthusiasm matching Joel's. "Hi, I'm yn. I'm here to make sure you all have an amazing summer!â
Abby followed, with a kind smile on her face. "Hey, I'm Abby. I'll be helping out with activities and making sure you all have a blast. If you want to hang out, feel free to come find me."
Jesse greeted the campers with a playful grin. "Yo, I'm Jesse. I'm here to keep things interesting and make sure you have a summer you won't forget. Let's have some fun!"
Dina stepped forward, her warm smile radiating kindness. "Hi there, I'm Dina. I'll be helping out with activities and making sure you all have a great time.â
Nora was the last to introduce herself, her presence calm and reassuring. "I'm Nora," she said with a kind smile. "I'm here to make sure you stay healthy and safe.â
"Alright, campers, listen up," Joel announced, his authoritative tone making it clear that he meant business. "We've got some incredible counselors here, and they're gonna be your guides, your mentors, and your friends throughout the summer."
He began with a smile, setting a tone of excitement and trust.
"For the Wildflower Meadow cabin, you'll be under the care of two of our finest, Ellie and yn.You're in for quite the ride with these two, folks."
The campers looked towards Ellie and you, their expressions a mix of curiosity and anticipation. You met their gazes with warm smiles.
"Over at Whispering Pines, we've got Dina and Jesse," Joel continued, his voice steady.
The campers turned their attention to Dina and Jesse, who waved enthusiastically, already eager to share the summer with the kids.
"Sunset Cove will be looked after by Abby and Nora," Joel announced, his tone full of confidence. âYouâre in good hands with them.â
"And last but not least," Joel concluded, "Blooming Lavender will be led by none other than Tess and myself."
The campers assigned to Blooming Lavender nodded in approval.
"Now, campers, thatâs enough yapping" Joel said with a hearty laugh, "get to know your cabin mates, your counselors, and get ready for an amazing summer yeah?â
âYeah!â The group of campers shouted excitedly in response before following their assigned counsellors to their cabins.
Over at the Wildflower Meadow Cabin, the girls were buzzing with excitement as they settled into their new space. Their chatter filled the air, a mixture of wonder and giddy enthusiasm.
"These beds are so comfy," one girl marveled, bouncing on the mattress.
"I know, right? It's like sleeping on a cloud," another agreed, testing out the pillows with a smile.
One of the girls, who looked slightly older, chimed in, âI can't believe we get our own beds!"
Meanwhile, two younger girls were having a playful dispute over a particular bed. "I want this bed!â âI called dibs on it first! Move!â
Laughter and chatter filled the air as the girls claimed their spots, playfully arguing over which bed belonged to whom.
Then, one of the campers picked up a sheet of paper on the wall containing Ellie's rules and and began to read them aloud. "Whoever wrote this has really bad handwriting," she declared, scrutinizing the words.
You had to bite your lip to suppress a laugh, glancing at Ellie who rolled her eyes in mock exasperation.
"The fact that you can read it says a lot," Ellie deadpanned.
What does that mean?" the middle schooler asked, hands on her hips, looking determined to decipher the message.
"Nothing," Ellie replied, shaking her head.
âI know you said something. Tell me.â the middle schooler replied inching closer to Ellie.
âYou get her Valentine!â a friend of the girls chimed in.
While Ellie was engaged in a stand-off with the middle schooler, another camper couldn't help but ask a rather blunt question. "Are you two dating?"
Ellie and you exchanged surprised glances before quickly turning back to the inquisitive group of girls. In unison, you both replied, "What? No. Never."
The girls erupted in giggles, whispering among themselves.
"They totally are."
"It's so obvious."
"Look, Ellie's blushing!"
The comments continued, and one particularly cheeky camper added, "So you two probably will make out when we're all asleep, huh?" This remark sent the other girls into fits of laughter, and they playfully teased their counselors.
"That's enough questions," Ellie finally intervened, her tone firm but amused. "Hurry up and finish placing your stuff down, or there will be consequences."
"What are you smiling at?" Ellie asked, arching an eyebrow.
"I'm sorry, I can't take you seriously," you admitted, a chuckle finally escaping your lips.
"Me being serious is funny?" Ellie questioned, a mock-offended tone in her voice.
"You just... don't look intimidating,"
"You're just being annoying,"
"Am I?"
"Yes, you are.â
"Ughhh, can you two just kiss already," one of the girls piped up, feigning a yawn. Her friends giggled mischievously.
"What is with you little shâ" Ellie started to say, you quickly interrupted.
"Just get ready. Ellie and I will wait outside, okay? Don't take too long or there will be consequences," you spoke in a playful imitation of Ellie's earlier warning. The kids burst into laughter, and Ellie shot you a glare.
âWhat?â You giggled with a shrug, causing a huff to escape Ellieâs lips before you both left the cabin, allowing the girls to change for the dayâs activities.
"I hate you, by the way."
"Now, that's not very nice.â
"What isn't nice was you embarrassing me back there," Ellie retorted with a huff.
"That was all you. I did not participate in that," you defended, grinning.
"You're such a smartass," Ellie muttered, though there was a hint of fondness in her tone.
"Look who's talking," you shot back.
"Whatever. Let's just wait for these stupid kids to finish getting dressed," Ellie sighed, trying to hide a smile.
"Is that a smile, Els?" you teased.
"It's not," Ellie protested, though her lips twitched in amusement.
Before you and Ellie could continue, the door to the cabin swung open, and the same girl Ellie had a stand off with, presumably Valentine, flanked by her friends.
"You two can stop arguing like an old married couple now. We're done," she declared, rolling her eyes dramatically before brushing past you two with her entourage.
You exchanged a bemused look before Ellie couldn't help but ask, "Where do you think you're going?"
âTo the lake, like you said," Valentine replied with a smirk, her friends snickering in the background as they walked away.
Ellie turned to you, a knowing look in her eyes. "She's going to be a problem."
"Yeah, she is," you agreed.
"Fart pillow?" Ellie proposed.
"Fart pillow," you confirmed with a nod.
The sun hung high in the sky, casting a warm golden glow over the lake. The water sparkled, reflecting the sunlight in a thousand glimmering diamonds. Laughter and splashing filled the air, the joyful sounds of children at play mingling with the gentle lapping of the water against the shore.
A light breeze carried the scent of sunscreen and freshly cut grass, mingling with the faint aroma of the nearby pine trees. The air held a comforting warmth, embracing the skin in a gentle caress. It was the kind of day that made you appreciate the simple pleasures of summer.
The taste of the lake lingered in the air, a subtle hint of earthiness that hinted at the adventures awaiting within its depths. The tang of sunscreen on the lips served as a reminder of the protective measures taken to ensure a carefree day in the sun.
Breaking you out of your thoughts, Abby came up to you. âHavenât seen your face in a while.â
âAbby, hey! I wanted to talk to you earlier butâŚâ
âThe kids came I get it.â Abby replies with a shrug.
âHow was Norway?â You asked with a small smile.
"Good," she replied, a smile tugging at the corner of her lips. "Actually, Norway was amazing. I spent a lot of time hiking in the fjords, and the scenery was just breathtaking.â
"What made you come back then?" you inquired, your curiosity piqued. "I mean, you couldn't have come back just for the kids."
"I did," Abby insisted, her voice warm and genuine. "I just have a soft spot for kids."
You raised an eyebrow, your intuition telling you there was more to the story. "There's more to it, I just know.â
Abby's smile remained enigmatic. "If that's what you want to believe."
"I'll uncover your secret, Abs. Just know," you teased.
"I'll be waiting," Abby replied with a small, knowing smile.
Ellie's shoes crunched softly on the dirt path as she returned from her brief errand to grab sunscreen. Her gaze fixed on the scene before her, the sight of you and Abby engrossed in conversation sending a jolt of unease through her.
She watched, unable to tear her eyes away, as you and Abby exchanged words with an easy familiarity. The smiles you shared, the banterâit was all so natural, so comfortable. Ellie couldn't help but feel a prickle of jealousy deep within her chest.
Her grip tightened on the sunscreen bottle, knuckles whitening as she tried to shake off the unfamiliar surge of insecurity. She told herself it was absurd, that there was no reason for her to feel this way. After all, Abby was an old friend, and you were just catching up.
Yet, as she drew nearer, the knot of tension in her stomach only seemed to tighten. She forced a smile, determined to hide any trace of her inner turmoil. "Hey, what did I miss?"
Abby turned to Ellie, her expression open and welcoming. "Not much. Just catching up."
You glanced at Ellie, your eyes sparkling with mischief. "Just Abby trying to be all mysterious. Iâll uncover your secret just know."
Abby chuckled, a knowing glint in her eye. "Good luck with that."
Ellie now was on the outside looking in. She found herself hyper-aware of every interaction, every shared laugh. It was as if a barrier had sprung up between her and the two of you, leaving her feeling strangely isolated.
She clenched her jaw, willing herself not to let the jealousy consume her. After all, what reason did she have to be jealous? You were her friend, and Abby was just another counselor. There was no need for these irrational emotions.
"I got the sunscreen," Ellie announced, her voice a touch cooler than usual.
"Oh, thanks Els," you replied, your smile genuine, though you couldn't ignore the subtle tension that still hung between the two of you. The atmosphere was thick with tension as Ellie handed you the sunscreen.
âAbby! Come see this!â A kid shouted from the lake with excitement.
"I've got to go. I'll talk to you later, yeah?" Abby's voice broke the silence, and you turned to bid her farewell, exchanging waves before she disappeared into the distance.
"It's so hot, oh my god," you remarked, diverting the conversation as you applied the sunscreen.
"You're being overdramatic," Ellie retorted, her voice clipped.
"You're being a dickhead," you shot back, frustration creeping into your tone.
"My feelings, ouch," Ellie deadpanned, a hint of playfulness in her response.
"Shut up," you muttered, the tension in the air still palpable.
"No thanks," Ellie replied, a smirk playing on her lips.
"Whoa... I was expecting a 'make meâ. Who are you and what have you done with my Ellie?" you quipped, your tone light, though the use of 'my Ellie' slipped out without much thought.
Ellie's facade cracked, and she struggled to contain a smile. The comment had caught her off guard, and for a moment, the banter felt different, more charged with underlying feelings. She cleared her throat, recovering quickly.
"I'm still the same. I don't know what you're talking about," Ellie insisted.
"I beg to differ. That response was like... so out of character," you teased, feigning shock.
"Oh my god, don't tell me... did the ghost take over your body?" you gasped dramatically.
"Yeah, real funny," Ellie deadpanned, though the corners of her lips twitched with suppressed amusement.
"You love my humor. You're just trying to hide it," you declared, a playful grin on your face.
Before Ellie could respond, a camper's urgent voice cut through the air, bringing both of you back to reality.
"Hey, Maia got cut by a rock. She's bleeding," the camper called out, their voice filled with concern.
Then another camper approached, their face etched with worry. "Grayson got cut by a rock too. He's bleeding pretty badly."
Though concerned, you and Ellie exchanged a glance before hurrying over to assess the situation. Injuries were part of the camping experience, right?
This was bound to happen. Right?
You and Ellie, nonetheless walked over to the injured campers. Treating them with the limited resources you had on hand.
The group of concerned kids circled around, their voices hushed with worry. "Is she going to be okay?" one asked, eyes wide with concern. "Grayson's cut looks really bad," another chimed in.
Ellie stepped forward, gently but firmly addressing the group. "Let's give them some space, okay?" she suggested, her voice calm and reassuring. The kids nodded, taking a step back to allow you and Ellie room to work.
You and Ellie carefully led Maia and Grayson to the infirmary, where Nora awaited with a composed demeanor. As Ellie joined you in the infirmary, Dina called for her from outside. With a nod, Ellie excused herself, leaving you and Nora to attend to Maia and Grayson.
Outside the infirmary, the camp buzzed with activity. The sun still shone brightly, casting dappled patterns of light across the campgrounds. It was a stark contrast to the worry and urgency within the infirmary walls.
âIâll take care of the two of them from here. You should go back and keep watch with Abby.â Nora reassured with her voice gentle as she looked from you then back to the two campers.
âCool. Will do.â you replied with a nod before you left the infirmary and made your way back to the lake, taking in the serene scenery around you.
Abby was waiting by the lake, a small smile on her face as she watched over the middle schoolers splashing and playing in the water. As you approached, she turned to greet you.
"Those two okay?" she inquired, concern in her eyes.
"Yeah, Nora's got them," you confirmed with a reassuring smile.
Abby nodded in approval. "Cool."
You both stood there for a moment, taking in the scene before you. The shimmering water, the laughter of the kidsâit was a perfect snapshot of summer.
"Everything okay here?" you asked, breaking the comfortable silence.
Abby glanced at you, a softness in her eyes. "Yeah, but I think we should wrap it up soon. Still have the afternoon to get to."
You turned to face her, a knowing smile tugging at your lips. "I'm guessing you're leading that?"
She arched an eyebrow, a playful challenge in her expression. "Why are you assuming I am?"
"Come on, Abs, hiking is your thing," you teased, nudging her lightly.
She chuckled, unable to hide her amusement. "What if it isn't anymore?"
You raised an eyebrow, feigning surprise. "Okay, so are you leading the hike or not?"
She relented, a grin breaking through. "I am."
"See now, why was that so hard to admit?" you teased, a playful glint in your eyes.
"No reason," Abby replied, her tone light.
"Mhmmm, are you still angry about the whole red hair dye thing?" you asked, curious.
Her expression softened, and she shook her head. "Nope. I still haven't got my payback, by the way."
Your eyes widened. "Wait. What do you mean by that?" you asked.
Abby laughed and started to walk away. "Abby! What did you mean by that?" you called after her, giving chase.
As you and Abby continued your playful banter and laughter, the warm chemistry between you was undeniable. You shared smiles, nudged each other playfully, and enjoyed the lightheartedness of the moment.
However, this carefree scene didn't go unnoticed by Ellie, who once again entered the picture. Her expression was a mix of curiosity and jealousy as she observed the two of you.
A random boy with glasses noticed Ellie's presence and decided to strike up a conversation. "Are they close? Like together?" he asked, gesturing toward you and Abby.
Ellie's response was sharp and defensive. "Wouldn't happen, and mind your business, four eyes," she retorted, her tone curt, before walking away, her back straight and shoulders tense.
The boy was left stunned and muttered to himself with a sigh, "Why does everyone call me four eyes?" He kicked a rock in frustration, watching it skitter across the ground. Poor guy.
The day passed swiftly, filled with activities and laughter as the campers soaked up every moment of the summer sun. As the day drew to a close, it was time for the much-anticipated hike.
While the kids scurried to get changed, you spotted Ellie sitting by the doorstep, a look of mild impatience on her face. You approached her, curious.
"How long have they been in there?" you inquired, glancing toward the cabin.
"15 minutes. Girls take unnecessarily long," Ellie grumbled, her voice tinged with exasperation.
"You're forgetting you're a girl too, Els," you teased, a smirk playing on your lips.
"I don't take long," Ellie defended, her tone firm.
"Uh huh, sure you don't...Oh, I found this poor kid crying by a bench," you said, changing the subject. "Said everyone keeps calling him four eyes, because you know...the glasses. Must've really bothered him if he was crying."
"Damn, that sucks," Ellie remarked, feigning innocence.
"I'm going to ignore the sarcasm in your voice," you said with a playful eye roll.
"I wasn't being sarcastic, just talking normally," Ellie insisted, a playful glint in her eyes.
"Deny all you want," you teased, giving her a knowing look.
Valentine emerged from the cabin and just then stepped on your and Ellie's fingers as she walked by with her entourage.
"What the fuck?" you exclaimed, wincing at the pain.
"You little shit," Ellie grumbled, clearly annoyed.
The girl turned around, a smirk on her face. "Uhm, what was that, losers? Thought there was a no swearing rule." She then sauntered away with her group, leaving you both fuming.
"Who does she think she is? I swear I'm going to..." you started, your anger bubbling.
"You think you can kiss it better?" Ellie teased, while holding up her fingers.
"My finger still hurts, you know!" Ellie added with a smile while following after you.
As the group of excited campers and counselors set off on their hike up Rainbow Ridge, the air was filled with the earthy scent of the forest floor. The crunch of leaves beneath their feet created a rhythmic soundtrack, and the occasional rustle in the bushes hinted at hidden wildlife.
The sun hung low in the sky, casting long, dappled shadows through the trees. Shafts of golden light pierced the canopy, illuminating the forest in a warm, ethereal glow. The leaves above danced in the gentle breeze, creating a soothing rustle that accompanied their ascent.
The trail wound its way up the ridge, offering occasional clearings with breathtaking views. The vivid colors of wildflowers painted the landscape, creating a vibrant contrast to the lush greenery. Each step brought them closer to the top, where the promise of an awe-inspiring sight awaited.
Finally, they reached the summit. The panorama that greeted them was nothing short of spectacular. The horizon stretched out before them, a canvas of warm hues as the sun began its descent. The sky was a riot of oranges, pinks, and purples, painting a breathtaking scene that seemed almost too perfect to be real.
The gentle breeze carried with it the scent of pine and earth, mingling with the freshness of the mountain air. The distant call of birds and the rustling leaves provided a natural symphony, harmonizing with the collective awe of the group.
The kids fell silent, their faces filled with wonder as they watched the sun dip lower, casting long shadows through the trees and over the ridge. It was a sight that reminded everyone of the magic of nature, a memory they would carry with them forever.
As the sun continued its descent, casting long shadows that stretched across the ridge, there was a collective understanding that this was a moment to be cherished. Time seemed to slow, allowing them to savor the tranquility and majesty of the natural world.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the group began their descent from Rainbow Ridge, making their way back to the camp's mess halls for dinner.
âIâm so hungry.â
âI saw there was pizza.â
âStop lying bro.â
âIâm not! I saw it with my own two eyes.â
The woods were gradually cloaked in the dim light of early evening, and the air had a crisp, invigorating quality to it.
The rustling leaves underfoot had transformed into a softer, hushed sound, accompanied by the occasional chirping of crickets. The scent of pine lingered, mixed with the delicious aroma of dinner being prepared in the mess halls.
When they arrived at the mess halls, the scent of food enveloped them. It was a comforting blend of roasted meats, savory herbs, and freshly baked bread. The anticipation in the air was palpable, and stomachs rumbled in response.
The mess halls were buzzing with activity. Campers chatted excitedly, their voices filling the space as they discussed their day's adventures. Counselors moved between tables, ensuring that everyone was settled and comfortable.
"Did you see that sunset?" one camper exclaimed to another. "It was like something out of a painting!"
"Yeah, I took so many pictures," another replied another with a grin. "I'm gonna show my parents."
At one table, Dina and Jesse were sharing stories of past campfire nights, regaling the campers with tales of ghost stories and funny mishaps. Laughter filled the air as the kids hung on every word.
The clinking of cutlery against plates and the soft murmur of conversation created a harmonious backdrop to the meal. It was a communal experience, with everyone coming together to share in the joy of food and camaraderie.
As they dug into their hearty dinner, the flavors burst on their tonguesâsavory and satisfying, a perfect reward after a day of hiking. After dinner, was the last activity of the day. The campfire. As the night wore on, all the kids as well yourself enjoyed the roasted sâmores, campfire songs and scary stories. All huddled together, basking in the warmth of the fire.
As the night was settling in, casting a serene stillness over the camp, it was finally time for everyone to head back to their cabins to sleep. With everyone gone, it was now just yourself and Abby. Seated on a log, watching the fire crackle and burn. The distant murmur of the lake and the occasional rustling leaves seemed to blend into the atmosphere, creating a comforting symphony of nature.
The gentle warmth from the campfire flickered, casting dancing shadows across the ground. The air was cool, carrying a faint scent of wood smoke from the fire, mingled with the natural fragrance of the forest.
âSaw you eyeing them.â Abby spoke holding out a granola bar towards you.
âWas I that obvious?â you ask with a snort, gently taking the bar from her hand.
âMaybe a little.â she replies with a small smile.
âThatâs embarrassing. Thank you though.â you say with a smile as well.
âNo problem.â abby replies with a nod.
The comfortable silence that settled between the two of you, was broken by you, voicing a thought that had been lingering. "I thought you still hated me, to be honest."
Abby's eyebrows lifted in surprise. "Why'd you think that?"
"The whole hair dye prank," you confessed. "It felt... I don't know, dumb."
"It was funny," Abby insisted, nudging you playfully.
"Really?" you asked, a touch of surprise in your voice.
"Why do you think I was laughing that day?" Abby teased, a twinkle in her eyes. "You got me good."
"Jesse made me feel kinda bad, saying I chased you away," you admitted with a light chuckle.
âI mean you kinda did.â
âI did?â
Abby's smile softened. "You did have your moments, but I'm playing with you. You didn't chase me away."
"That wasn't funny," you retorted, taking a bite of the granola bar.
"I could've sworn I saw a smile just a second ago." abby replies with a smile.
"Shut up," you responded taking a bite of your granola.
âMake me.â Abby leaned in before pulling back with a chuckle. âI missed your snark.â
"I don't know if that's a compliment or an insult... but I'll take it as a compliment," you said with a grin.
"It was a compliment," Abby affirmed, her eyes holding yours for a moment longer before they both returned to the quiet night.
A soft laugh escaped you as you leaned back, the night sky stretching above like a velvet tapestry dotted with stars. "You should work on how you compliment girls then."
Abby chuckled. "Noted."
Silence once again draped over the two of you, comfortable and easy.
But Abby broke the quiet this time. "Remember the old cabin by the lake?"
"The one you locked me in?" you shot back with a grin. "Never will forget. I'm traumatized."
Abby shook her head, a playful glint in her eyes. "The door was unlocked; you were just being a baby."
"The door was unlocked?" you repeated, blinking in disbelief.
"Mhm," Abby confirmed with a nonchalant hum.
"You're sick for making me think it was locked," you said, shaking your head.
"See, now it's not my fault you were too busy screaming and crying to realize it was unlocked. That's all you," Abby replied with a teasing grin.
"You're annoying," you replied, rolling your eyes playfully.
Abby just sighed contentedly. "I missed this.â
The night air was cool, gently caressing your skin as you stood beneath the velvet sky. Stars glittered above, distant but bright, casting a surreal glow on the surroundings. The stillness was almost tangible, save for the gentle rustle of leaves, whispering secrets that only the night knew.
"We should probably get to bed. We have an early morning hike tomorrow," Abby's voice broke through the quiet, pulling you back to reality.
"Another hike? You're evil," you quipped, a playful smile dancing on your lips.
"I'm just leading it, the evil genius is Joel," Abby replied, her laughter mingling with the night. She rose from her spot with a fluid grace, the moonlight catching in her eyes, giving them a soft, reflective gleam. "Night."
You watched her go, the subtle flutter in your chest refusing to fade. Things felt different with Abby, something unnameable that you couldn't quite put your finger on.
With a sigh, you crumpled the granola bar wrapper in your hand and moved towards a nearby bin. As you walked, an eerie wind seemed to encircle you, carrying with it soft, hushed whispers that danced on the edges of your hearing.
seek me. seek me. seek me. i am near. i am lost. seek me. seek me.
You turned, eyes darting around frantically, but there was no one thereâjust you and the night.
Shaking off the unease, you tossed the wrapper into the bin and turned back toward the cabin. The door creaked open, revealing Ellie sprawled out on her bed in deep slumber, her soft snores filling the room.
Her snores were nothing short of comical, a cacophony of sound that echoed through the cabin. It was the sort of snoring that could wake the dead, and you couldn't help but suppress a chuckle at the absurdity of it.
Shaking your head with a grin, you quietly made your way to your own bed, the strange feeling from before still lingering in the back of your mind. But as you settled under the covers, sleep soon claimed you, pulling you into a world of dreams and shadows.
could u pls do an ellie(or abby) period piece where reader is a princess, but ellie(or abby) is a knight and itâs lowk forbidden ykyk?đŤŁ
pink matter
summary: what starts off as a secret, and blatantly innocent rendezvous to the castle stables ends in a question between the strength you possess to deny ellie and the urgency of her that you crave â all in touches and hushed questions.
warning: slightly suggestive but nothing happens, knight ! ellie, princess ! fem ! reader, period piece
a/n: oh lord. this ask made my head spin in the best way HELLOOO. thank u so much for your interest in my works and such a lovely req!! i know this is a little short but iâm thinking of making a part two or something like that⌠maybe with abby? both of them? dangerous? idk! letâs see :P in the meantime, enjoy :-]
Ellie could never not worry about you. It was a habit now properly buried in the various mechanisations of her being, her footing as a soldier-turned-knight struck in deep mud and sworn to the kingdom she fought for tooth and nail.
âIâll be fine, Ellie,â you purse your lips, stepping over the threshold of the stable youâve seemingly snuck out into. The mud had tapered to rough chalk-like granules beneath the strength of your heels, which embedded rather than sunk with the kiss of the Earth. But you donât mind â youâd barely swung a glance to the stain dotting your powdered garb, barely acknowledged the swing and pull of your arms against the stable edges, mantels, the way they smelt like trouble for a lady like you.
And yet, Ellie did.
âPrincess,â she grunts, in that way that had your tummy churning in the oddest of directions when her fingers crossed the small of your back, warm and stitched with heat as she presses half her side to the back of you, âYou mustnât dirty your garb. If you allow it, I can carry youââ
âThat is not necessaryâ you swallow, barely coherent without a pause to ascertain your breath. Was she insane? Was she just? Was she playing your poor heart with stannic poles as trusses?
Did she know this effect she carried in the very smell of her?
âOf course,â she sounds reserved, now, and youâre afraid youâve scared her. Well, scrap âscared.â Offended, at most. Left barren of the very services she can offer â her brawn is stalked clean and at the ready; muscle in her arm, muscle in her calf, muscle on her chest. She was a soldier, alright. Still, sheâs far more awkward and bony with you, no longer any semblance of the blood and teeth she was of yesterday. Just a dear friend who followed at your heels with more caution than merriment as fuel, âBe careful.â
And you are. For the next thirty minutes, just to prove you can be, if you want to. Your shoes are a scratch dirty but indistinguishable from its acclaimed standards and your dress is smothering, molten quartz against the dirt in the stable. You pet the horses and giggle, try to hide the tense of your fingers and the sweat that kisses your neck when Ellie comes close, tries to balance you on your toes.
âAre you sure youâre okay?â
âSee, pet here â horses prefer neck to ear rather than elsewhere.â
âHush, princess. Youâll get us caught.â
âYou make it sound scandalous,â you regard her latest comment, opting to face away and question her with thw stretch of your back facing her as a proxy, âthat weâre here. Weâre just here to pet the horses, are we not?â
âWe are.â
âSo? Why must we be so cautious?â
âBecause is that really all there is to itâŚâ a tingle of her breath skirts the best of your neck at her sudden adjacency, âY/N?â
You turn, swivel and nearly fall into the crass below you at the gall of this woman â insinuating just as much was inapt, was it not? Absolutely malapropos, much to the tastes of the kingdom, your parents, things of other importance. And you do open your mouth, in protestâŚ
âŚonly that nothing of such⌠âimportanceâ comes to your defence. You look like a fish, red and blistering with heat like a teenager caught in a crush, not a princess toes deep in a stable with her sworn knight at knee and lip level. Not like that.
âWell?â she eggs on, and now her fingers pamper the skin of your neck, near the base, where theyâve grown warm and excited with your silence â she glances at you, mischievous and all smiles, for once, and it excites you. Makes you worry your lip against your teeth. Makes you carry the innocent part.
âW-Well⌠I donât know⌠what are we doing, exactly?â you close in on the question, and her fingers flit against your cheek. That you can handle, you think. Hope. Her left palm is heavy on your hip, cradling the flesh so gingerly as she crowds you into the corner of the stable.
Her eyes light, once more, and it takes you seconds to figure the feel of her fingers on your lips. Firm and goading some reaction from you; excitement, thrill, something convoluted and messy.
âYou tell me: what is this?â she asks, and her question feels like a weight against your throat in the way she nudges her nose into the flesh of it, tests your limits, asks you silently: âAre you willing to take the fall?â
And like clockwork, you offer her no words, but just an answer in the form of action, with her mouth on yours and the spit of each other marking the fervor of it as you go â and the way she holds you against the thew of her makes you forget the mud that has begun to discolour your robes.
Š 2023 qvrcll ! do not repost any of my works on any platform.
yes the title is a herâs reference because I am obsessed! this is just a drabble but Iâll be adding some chapters to this for fun between my other fic updates ;)
The sun blazes high in the cloudless sky, heat seeming to radiate in sweltering waves off of the perfectly smooth pavement. Sweat dampens the back of your neck, and just before you can start to feel a bit antsy, your ears pick up on the distant sound of loud, intense engines approaching- and lighting fast. Just a quick flash of white and red across your vision, almost incomprehensible, the racer you had your eyes set on darts past as a roaring thunders through your eardrums. Another car zips by hot on it's trail. A few years ago, the high pitched, too-loud ringing in your ears wouldâve made you wince. But not anymore. The wonderful but fleeting draft of air from the passing cars offered a quick relief against the heat, a cooling draft against your hot skin. But this wasn't even the exciting part. The first racer, one you have heard both grand praises and critiques of, is only doing leisure laps. The real competition is only a day away.Â
You definitely arenât a racer, and thatâs perfectly alright with you. Working pit crew, you had witnessed accidents on the track. A lot of them. But you were content to wear your crew uniform with pride, to feel the familiar weight of the wheel gun in your hands and hear the sounds of the track full of life and noise around you as you worked. The practice sessions back at the factory werenât your favourite- the job came easily to you by now, and you could do it quickly and efficiently without a second thought. But out on the track, celebrating wins and simply working out here with your friends was enough for you. You arenât working today, exactly- but plans with the crew (a pre-race tradition) had drawn you to the track anyways.Â
After a few more lightning fast laps, the red car reduces speed, pulling off into the pit and cutting the engine. Stepping out and leaning against the door, the driver looks out over the track. The other car continues its rapid laps, and she lets out a quick laugh as it whips past her, a satisfying purr echoing out over the track as it accelerates. You watch it disappear around the corner, and then your attention turns back to the girl. She was the one on your radar, the one with near-record speeds and a knack to utilize riskier methods on the track. Her helmet tucked under her arm, she stands comfortably, but with a flicker of confidence and pride that you can't help but admire. Her chin is held high, her hair lifting slightly with the breeze. The cropped locks of it burn a deep red in the light of the sun. As you approach, she turns towards you, eyes looking over you quickly before she flashes you a dazzling smile. It's the same one that you had seen plastered on countless television programs and magazine covers, and you can't deny that while it is likely rehearsed, there's charm in it.
It wasnât exactly common for you to speak to racers for more than a quick couple of minutes after a race, but there was nobody else here. And besides, you arenât wearing your uniform right now.
âYou have a good cruise out there?â you ask, arms crossed as you squint with a smirk. A quick falter in that dazzling smile of hers as her eyes scan yours, assessing and apparently deciding she likes what she sees. And then it's back even brighter.Â
âYeah, actually. I donât like to sit still the day before a big race, you know?â you nod, and she rakes her fingers through her wild hair, switching her helmet from one hand to the other. Thereâs a few custom stickers plastered across the back, but you canât see them well enough from here. Your eyes catch on a tattoo peeking out the sleeve of her suit and you tear your gaze away.Â
"Yeah, I bet," you say, eyes scanning over her car. It's gorgeous- but you're biased. Almost every car that you worked on in the pit was beautiful to you. She turns to follow your eyes.
"Do you race?" she asks, and you laugh quickly.
"No, not at all. I just like the track. I'll leave the hard work to you," She hums at this.
"I'm Ellie. Williams," she adds on, extending the tattooed hand out to you. While it's a bit of a formal gesture, your reach forward to slide your hand into hers, introducing yourself.
"Polite. I like it," you say with a smile and she flushes.
"But in all honesty, I keep up with the track scene, so I've definitely heard your name a few times," you admit, but she looks pleased. She goes to say something else, but her voice is drowned out by the roar of an engine. The other car- slower now, is pulling off too. She mouths a 'sorry' and you wave her off. The other engine cuts, and she turns to face the other driver. He's tall, with dark long hair and a set of familiar features. Jesse- something, you remember.
âIt was nice to meet you. Good luck out there tomorrow,â you offer her a quick smile, heading back to the stands.Â
âWill I see you after the race?â her voice rings out across the pit, and after a moment, you turn back slightly, just enough to call out back to her.Â
âMaybe if you win,â
You'll just have to wait and see- which won't be difficult, considering you'll be working the pit for her largest competitor tomorrow.
