Damon was livid. He was paying for his brother’s mistakes and he hated every damn second of it. Stefan killed Fin, Klaus' brother. In retaliation, Klaus bit Damon, infecting him with deadly Hybrid venom. This was his strategy, threatening to kill Damon to get Stefan to surrender. And it was working.
Damon sat at the bar in the Mystic Grill, waiting for Klaus. He had asked to meet to discuss the situation. And finally Satan himself showed up.
"Damon, what can I do for you? You look rather pale."
"Because, love, I want something from you."
"Wow, I wonder why. No, but seriously why am I being dragged into your feud with Stefan?"
"And what on God's green earth would that be?"
"I want you, as a companion."
Damon raised an eyebrow.
"Why? You have enough Hybrids to keep you company."
"I need you for a very specific reason. Something I will only tell if you agree. So you come with me and I give you some of my blood or you die. It's an easy decision to make."
"How long do I need to be your sidekick?"
"Until I decide we are finished."
Damon groaned.
"So potentially, never. Well, that's comforting."
Klaus shot him a smirk.
"If it comes to that, yes."
"How about we agree on 3 years?"
Klaus laughed at the suggestion.
"No."
"Five?"
"No and I'm not agreeing to anything below 500 years and by that time, I probably won't need you anymore. So honestly, you only really have one option."
"Fine, but I don't want Stefan to find out about this, else he's going to come 'save' me. I'll make up an excuse tonight."
"Good."
Klaus smiled before standing up and shrugging on his coat.
"I'll come to get you tomorrow morning, at dusk. Until then, don't die."
Damon sighed as he watched Klaus walk away. He stayed at the bar thinking about what he was going to tell Stefan.
~
Damon was looking forward to his upcoming trip, more than he thought he would. Less excited about his travel partner, but still happy to get out of Mystic Falls. This trip also had the potential to let him feed properly again. He wasn't about to go full-on Genghis Khan again, but he'd still appreciate bathing in some warm fresh blood.
He had packed two small suitcases, primarily clothes, and shoes. And now he was standing outside, waiting. He had to admit it; the hybrid bite was wearing him down. He was fatigued, disorientated, and unstable. The hallucinations had kicked in, quite violently.
"Damon! Damon, love, are you deaf?"
Damon climbed into the crimson Ferrari in front of him, sitting in the passenger seat.
"Deaf? No. In need of a cure? Yes."
"What's the rush?"
Klaus pulled out of the driveway, looking unnecessarily hot as he turned to look behind the car.
"Well, I'm fairly certain that I'm hallucinating already."
"What gives you that idea?"
"My dead mother in the backseat can answer that for you."
"Alright, you've suffered enough."
Klaus offered his wrist to Damon, who hastily grabbed it before sinking his teeth in. Damon sucked every drop from the wound before it closed again.
"What did you tell your brother?"
"I left him a note on my dresser, hopefully he finds it soon."
"Damon, what have you written?"
"You don't have to know that."
"Damon, look me in my eyes. What have you written?"
"I'm on vervain, that shit won't work."
"Well, you just made our trip a lot more difficult."
"Why is that?"
"I compelled you to forget something a long time ago, and now I need you to remember."
"And you can't just tell me because..."
"You'd be absolutely mortified."
"Oh c'mon, can't be that bad."
"Damon, no. I'll just have to bleed you dry. You know, I've wanted to since Rebekah did that one time. Also, you taste divine."
"Oi, friends not food. I'm your travel partner, not your blood bank. Also, you're not bleeding me dry, that shit hurts."
"You act like you have a choice in the matter. Besides, I think you'll enjoy it."
"Fucking psycho..."
Surprisingly, Klaus only raised an eyebrow at the insult. Damon just sighed, taking a second to appreciate the absence of poison in his veins.
~
Unfortunately for Damon, Klaus was serious about bleeding him dry. As soon as the car stopped Klaus moved to snap his neck. Damon barely managed to dodge his grasp, still getting nicked by one of Klaus's nails. A drop of blood dripped down his face as he sprang away from the hybrid.
"Hey, I thought we were cool."
"We are 'cool', but it is more convenient to lug around your unconscious body than it is to try to convince you to follow me. So hold still."
Damon glared at the hybrid, but didn’t try to escape his grasp. He knew that protest would be met with violence and that wasn't a fight he could win.
As promised, Klaus proceeded to snap his neck and lug Damon's unconscious body into an abandoned warehouse. He jumped up onto the rafters, dragging Damon with him like a leopard pulling its kill into a tree. Klaus ripped Damon’s shirt off, taking a moment to appreciate the view. He tied Damon’s hands together and connected them to the top of the truss.
As a final touch, he sank his teeth into Damon's shoulder. He had two reasons for doing this, the first one being that he was hungry and Damon tasted nice. The second being that the venom would prevent Damon’s blood from clotting, making it much easier to bleed him dry.
Technically, Klaus could start cutting into Damon immediately but he figured it would be more fun to wait for the man to gain consciousness. Klaus did promise to make it enjoyable after all.
It took a while, but eventually Damon sighed as the venom coursed through his veins. He felt a weight on his shoulders and it took him a moment too long to realise that Klaus was behind him and leaning against his back. The hybrid's arms were wrapped securely around his waist. Damon felt lips press against his exposed shoulder.
"What the...?"
Damon trailed off when Klaus wrapped a hand around his neck. Damon’s eyes shot open just to be met with a blindfold.
"Shh, little raven, you'll understand soon enough. For now, try to enjoy it. I know I will."
Two words rang in Damon’s mind, 'little raven'. Someone's called him that before. Before Damon could get his groggy mind to work, Klaus pressed a kiss to the blackened wound on Damon’s shoulder. The hand around his waist moved up, gently caressing his ribs before nails ripped into his soft skin, leaving gashes down his side. Damon groaned in pain, wincing at the sting.
"I know, love, I know..." Klaus whispered against Damon’s shoulder.
Klaus pressed kisses down Damon's body, from his shoulder all the way to the new wounds on his side. He lapped up the blood that oozed from the lacerations. The feeling of Klaus' tongue made Damon shiver. Why did it feel nice? Realistically, Damon knew he was a masochist, but he didn't think it went this far.
Klaus continued to tongue at the sensitive skin, while his hands trailed down Damon’s body, gently kneading his skin. Damon melted into Klaus' hands, too tired to question why Klaus was doing this.
It was absurd. Despite the werewolf bite pumping venom into his bloodstream and the stinging of his side, Damon felt good. He didn’t think he was in danger of dying and what Klaus was doing, however odd and inane it may be, felt amazing. For some reason Klaus was doting on him.
The next twelve hours passed in a haze. Damon struggled to keep track of Klaus as the hybrid moved around him. He was determined to get his hands on every single bit of pale skin that Damon had. Klaus carved patterns into Damon’s back, scratched his arms untill they bled and bit Damon repeatedly.
And yet it was the most loved that Damon had ever felt. Klaus pressed kisses everywhere, cradled Damon in his arms as if he was going to break, licked every wound that he inflicted, caressed his skin so tenderly and showered him in praise.
Klaus finished by pressing his lips against Damon’s, gently. He untied Damon’s hands and the vampire slumped against him. Damon couldn’t stand on his own anymore, the venom from multiple bites and bloodloss had taken its toll, but it was fine. Because Klaus supported him and pulled him into a warm embrace, keeping him upright.
Klaus slowly removed the blindfold from Damon’s head and cupped Damon’s face with one hand. He lifted Damon's head and looked into his pretty blue eyes.
"Remember me, please."
Klaus pulled Damon into his chest as Damon’s reality shifted. A flood of memories washed over him, Klaus present in every single one. They knew each other long ago. They were close. Friends. Lovers. Soulmates.
Damon slowly returned the hug, letting his mind process everything. They spent years together. 30 years. The happiest years of his life. Damon looked up at Klaus, recognition flashed in his eyes.
"Hey, Nik."
"Welcome back, little raven."
~
AN: Y'all, it's 3 am. Im tired. But ykw this exists now and its cute. No beta we die like my sleep schedule. Enjoy. @melodiouspenguin.
Klaus watched as one of his witches wheeled a metal table into the room. He smiled before walking towards her.
"What gifts do you bring, Madeline?"
The sheet over the table was tossed away and a body was revealed. She stepped back to let Klaus have a closer look. He leaned over the table, making direct eye contact with Damon.
"Only the finest goods. We found this one right outside of Mystic Falls. He is your type so we snatched him for you. I estimated him to be around 100 years old but I could be wrong. He is paralyzed with a charm which will wear off in one or two hours, but his senses still work. He just can't move. In any case, enjoy."
Klaus replied without even looking at Madeline, his eyes fixed on Damon.
"Thank you. You are dismissed."
She nodded and left the room, closing the door behind her. Klaus continued his inspection. He stalked around the table, poking and prodding at Damon as he pleased.
"You're a pretty one, aren't you? Young too." He scanned over Damon’s face, using his fingers to pull Damon’s eye open wider. "Gorgeous blue eyes." He pulled his lips apart. "Straight, white, teeth." His eyes flicked to his ears and nose. "Many piercings in the ears, a nose ring as well. That could be fun." He ran his fingers through Damon’s hair. "Clean, healthy hair." His hand wrapped around Damon’s neck and he watched how Damon’s brain kicked down several gears, like an animal that knows it's done running. Poor thing still thinks he needs to breathe. Klaus chuckled at that as he moved down tracing Damon’s collarbone. "Broad shoulders and muscular, you're looking promising thus far."
Despite his persistent need to get away from Klaus as soon as possible, Damon was frozen. This was Klaus. The monster. The main character in every supernatural's nightmares. And Klaus was touching him. And talking about him like he was some kind of product. And liking him?
Klaus ripped off Damon’s shirt, bringing him back out of his head. Holy shit, Klaus Mikaelson was touching his abs.
"Stunning physique. I like that." He grabbed Damon’s hips, hard enough to leave bruises. Then he gripped his thighs, nodding before turning Damon onto his stomach. "Strong back, that's ideal." Klaus carefully traced the lines on Damon’s bare back, making the young vampire shiver.
Damon wanted to scream. What was he doing? What kind of sick bastard kidnaps someone to do this? He felt so vulnerable infront of Klaus, so exposed. And he didn't know why. The good lord knows it's not the first time a morally ambiguous asshole touched him there or everywhere.
Damon was once again ripped from his thoughts by a set of canines chomping down on his neck. Klaus was feeding and if Damon didn't push him off, he just might be sucked dry. Or that's what he thought.
Damon desperately tried to wiggle his toes or move his fingers, but to no avail. Klaus caught the panicked look in his eye and a grin spread over his face.
"Young vampires, so clueless. Calm down, love. You're a vampire, I couldn't suck you dry if I tried. Actually, I want to test that." He bit down on the other side of Damon’s neck, leaving a bloody wound behind. "You taste divine, darling. I just might keep you."
Damon didn't know what that meant and he didn't want to think about what that meant. He just kept on trying to wiggle his toes, trying to ignore the feeling of helplessness in his stomach. He could feel himself growing weaker as Klaus drank from him.
Finally, he managed to move his toes, then his foot. His knee bent a little and his fingers became usable. His body jolted as he managed to get off the table and out from under Klaus. Blood dripped from his neck and onto the floor. Damon’s vision became blurry and his limbs gave out, but he didn't fall.
Klaus caught him just before Damon hit the ground.
"Calm down. You're only hurting yourself." Klaus held Damon in his arms for a moment longer, looking in his wild eyes.
Blinking rapidly, Damon tries to clear his vision. He sped towards the door, trying to get as far away from Klaus as possible. The door was locked and he was too weak to do anything about it, so as Klaus walked towards him, he tried to cross to the other side of the room.
In his haste, Damon’s knee hit the metal leg of the table. He fell, but scrambled to his feet and booked it to the corner of the room that is farthest away from Klaus. He held his leg, careful to not put too much pressure on it.
"Love, stop running from me. I bit you twice and in case you didn't know, those are werewolf bites. You have the coordination of a baby penguin and you're still half paralyzed. You're just banging yourself up. You belong to me now, there's no use in running." Klaus looked as Damon stood shakily in the corner.
He looked like an stray animal. His eyes were wild and it was clear to Klaus that he was in fight or flight mode. He was limping which slowed him down significantly. He held his shoulder as he had injured it in his effort to get off the table. Blood dripped from his neck down his chest. Black veins spread from his neck and his skin was graying. He looked sickly, almost malnourished. He looked like he was about to fall again.
Damon felt dizzy, his vision getting cloudy. He leaned against the wall to keep himself up, not having the power to run as Klaus stalked towards him. He sank down the wall, not being able to keep himself up anymore. He turned his head towards the floor, not wanting to look at Klaus, and covered his head and neck with his arms.
Klaus heard Damon’s heart rate pick up. His leg started shaking and his breathing became irratic. He crouched infront of Damon, trying not to be intimidating. He slowly stroked Damon’s leg.
"Calm down, love. It's alright. I'm not letting you go, but there's no use in having a panic attack about it. I don't want my new toy to break. Shush, it's alright. You're fine."
Klaus continued whispering things to him and eventually Damon calmed down. Klaus smiled as his leg finally stopped shaking.
"C'mon, love, show me those gorgeous eyes." Damon lifted his head to look at Klaus, not completely certain why he was willing to comply. "Now, you need to drink some of my blood as well, to heal those bites."
Klaus held out his wrist for Damon to bite. He hesitantly reached out before biting down and letting Klaus' blood run down his throat. The black veins on his neck faded and his skin wove itself back together again. The color returned to his face.
"Fantastic, you're already looking better. I'll take good care of you, love. I promise." Klaus reached out towards Damon’s face, stroking Damon’s cheek with the back of his hand. Damon closed his eyes, refusing to look at him and Klaus used the opportunity to snap his neck. A sickening crack echoed through the room.
~
When Damon woke up he was tied to a bed, spread eagle on his back. Fuck no, he immediately thought. He did not like the direction this was going. He thrashed against the restraints around his wrists and ankles.
"Don't waste the little energy you have. You aren't getting out of that."
Klaus' voice came from beside the bed, as he looked for something in the wardrobe. Damon watched his eyebrows furrow before he stopped searching. Instead, he turned his attention towards Damon.
"I have enough."
Damon sounded more confident than he was. The little confidence he had however was shattered when Klaus smiled, a genuine sickening grin. The hybrid was enjoying his suffering.
"So my little raven can speak."
"I'm not yours." Damon’s voice was shaky and uncertain.
"Are you trying to convince me or yourself? Because you don't sound too sure."
Damon looked away from the hybrid knowing he had lost this round. Big mistake. Klaus sped towards the bed, sitting next to Damon and grabbing him by the neck. He caressed Damon’s skin before gently lifting Damon's head. He stared at Damon's eyes.
After a second or two, Damon's eyes snapped shut and he started thrashing against the restraints. Klaus sighed before moving to hover over him. Klaus put one a hand on each of Damon’s shoulder and looked him in the eye before giving him an order.
"Calm down."
It was nothing more than a whisper but Damon immediately realised what effect it had on him. He felt his body grow limp. He couldn’t move a muscle, even when Klaus took his hands away.
His mind started to race but his thoughts were immediately interrupted by a voice in his mind that was repeating Klaus' order. His mind went blank and his eyes stopped snapping around the room. He could only listen as Klaus spoke.
"I'm sorry, love. I didn't want to resort to compulsion, but you were about to stress yourself into another panic attack. I need you to listen to me, little raven."
Damon nodded.
"I am one of those people who'd burn the world just to get what I want. And I want you. You have no choice in that, but it is 100% up to you to determine how I treat you. Play by my rules and I will not hurt you. Disobey me and suffer the consequences."
"What rules?"
"Number 1; you do not hide your eyes from me. And number 2; no vervain. If I catch you with it, you are dead. That's all. Understood?"
"Yes." Damon wasn't ecstatic about the arrangement but it could have been so much worse. He just had to clear something up.
"I have a question though."
Klaus nodded, waiting for Damon to continue while he untied the rope that had been holding the younger vampire.
"What if I run?"
Klaus looked at him with a sly smirk, his eyes gleaming.
"You can try."
"Will there be consequences? If I try?"
"If you try; no. If you succeed; I'll just bring you back, but I won't punish you further. It may do you good to remember that I love the chase."
Damon stayed silent, his brain was still not letting him think properly. He stayed on the bed even as Klaus left the room. He wasn't paralyzed anymore but his muscles felt like jelly. He felt so weak.
A few moments later, Klaus reappeared in the doorway and tossed a bloodbag into Damon’s lap.
"We'll go hunting properly tonight but for now, that should be enough."
Damon took the bag and hesistantly bit into it. The warm blood filled his mouth and suddenly everything felt as though it was right in the world. He felt his strength return as the dark lines around his eyes grew more prominent. His eyes turned red as he sucked every last drop out of the bag.
Klaus smirked at his new vampire pet enjoying his treat.
~
Damon soon took to exploring. He found that Klaus lived in a mansion, of course. He lived alone, but there were different names on some doors. Like 'Kol', 'Rebekah', 'Elijah' and 'Finn'.
As he stared at the last name, he heard Klaus leave his bedroom. He jumped up to the rafters in an effort to hide as Klaus turned the corner.
Whether Klaus realized he was there was or not was a mystery, but the man kept walking to the kitchen. He disregarded Damon completely, which Damon appreciated. As soon as Klaus was out of sight he jumped down from the rafters to explore the rest of the floor.
He stalked down the halls, but every single room looked the same. It was like a maze. He stopped listening for Klaus and his own thoughts picked up speed.
Why did the witch decide to take him? Instead of Stefan, instead of Katherine? Why was Klaus interested in him? Why wasn’t Klaus hurting him?
That last one rattled him completely. Yes, Klaus did kidnap him and although he can run, he wasn't sure he wanted to. The look on Klaus' face earlier told him that he'd be back here in three seconds anyway. But he also wasn't sure he wanted to go back.
Why not?
He turned another corner as the thought took over his mind. Why wasn't it terrible? He had been kidnapped by a heartless vampire who just wanted to use him for selfish reasons. And yet, he didn't fail to recognise that Klaus had treated him better in the last 24 hours, than Katherine ever did.
Klaus caught him when he was about to fall, talked him through a panic attack and healed the werewolf bites that he inflicted. He didn’t take advantage of Damon, compelled him out of another panic attack and gave him clear, reasonable rules. And most impotantly, Klaus chose him. Not Stefan.
Would staying here make him a terrible person? Would leaving Stefan make him a horrible brother? Would abandoning Katherine make him a backstabber?
Suddenly, the thoughts were going too fast again. His breathing became irregular, forced. He watched his hands shake. His knees felt unstable and his vision grew blurrier by the second.
Then a cursed thought entired his mind. Klaus. It wouldn't be the first time that Klaus stopped one of his panic attacks in its tracks.
In a desperate attempt to prevent the inevitable, Damon dashed towards the kitchen. He stumbled on the stairs only to be caught in strong arms. He clung to the hybrid's shirt in an attempt to ground himself.
"Please... compell me. I need... to stop. Now."
Klaus looked surprised for a moment before a look of understanding flashed across his face. He gently lifted Damon’s chin, before making eye contact with the young vampire.
"Calm down, love."
Damon felt every seizing muscle in his body relax. His thoughts were silenced and his vision cleared. He stopped shaking. Everything was fine again.
Klaus held Damon up so he could find his footing. Damon held onto his shirt for a moment longer before whispering,
"I'm sorry. I shouldn't have made this your problem."
Klaus' heartless facade shattered when he heard the hopelessness in Damon’s voice. It sounded like Damon believed that he didn't deserve help. As if to prove Klaus' realization, Damon pulled away from Klaus. Klaus suddenly felt empty.
Klaus wasn't having any of it.
"No, love. This is as much my problem as it is yours. I need you to understand that I own you now. That means that you are mine to take care of and if that includes compelling you out of panic attacks, I'll be more than happy to do that. I am not one to neglect my pet."
Klaus pulled Damon close again. He hugged the young vampire tightly, rubbing his back. Very slowly, Damon worked up the courage to return the hug. Burying his head in the crook of Klaus' neck, Damon let out a muffled, "Thank you."
~
Klaus made due on his promise to go hunting. He dragged Damon to a college party. Damon raised an eyebrow at the choice of event but Klaus smirked at him.
"It's the quickest way to get drunk on alcoholic blood. Besides once we go in there, no one else leaves alive. Understood?"
Damon grinned, "Yes."
This was what Stefan and Katherine didn’t get. This rush of excitement is what vampires thrived upon and Klaus clearly understood that. Damon jumped out of the car as soon as Klaus parked and strutted towards the front door. Klaus decided to let his pet do the work.
Damon smirked at the young blonde who opened the door. She was practically swooning as soon as she laid eyes on him.
"Oh honey, you look delicious. Mind if we come in?"
"Of course." She let out a giggle before winking at him.
Damon grabbed Klaus' hand and dragged him inside. Damon felt someone grab his other hand. He spun around to see a shirtless man, clearly drunk, tugging on his wrist.
"Why don't you let me take you for a spin? It'll be worth your time."
A flash of movement caught Damon’s eye and he watched Klaus remove the hand gripping his wrist and bite into the man's neck. Damon smiled and joined Klaus, biting the man's chest.
The two vampires sucked him dry in less than a minute. Klaus wiped his mouth before shoving the body in the direction of a random guy.
"Your friend passed out. Take him upstairs." The man picked up the corpse and carried it without hesitation.
Klaus turned back to Damon, laying his eyes on every part of the younger vampire. His strong physique but also his smooth edges. His waist that was just begging to be grabbed but also his broad shoulders. His chest and neck, trembling slightly as a drop of blood ran from his bloodied mouth. His stainted lips that grinned back at Klaus. His sharp teeth. And finally his eyes.
Damn those eyes, Klaus thought.
He pressed his lips against Damon’s, wrapping his arm around the man's waist. His other hand cupped his neck. Damon grinned into the kiss and appreciated the feeling of Klaus' cold hands pressing against him. Klaus pulled away to lick the blood off Damon’s face.
"Possessive, much?"
Klaus hummed and tilted Damon’s head back. His tongue followed the trail of blood down Damon's neck. Once he finished, he pecked Damon on the lips again.
"Why don't you go find us another treat?"
~
AN: This has been sitting in my drafts for a year now and I finally figured out how to finish it. Thank you to @melodiouspenguin for motivating me to post again with their kind words.
Summary: Cole decides to knock on Hanzo's door in search of company, but gets a demonstration of something extraordinary. He discovers something about himself along the way as well.
Cole stood outside their door, his hand raised to knock but he hesitated. He's only ever come here for sex. Would it be weird to ask for company?
Hanzo's voice again echoed in his mind, "All you have to do is ask and we'll be here."
He strummed his knuckles against the hard wood. To his surprise it was Hanzo who answered the door. The archer immediately let him inside, no questions asked.
"Ashley is still with Angela. I cannot imagine that she'd be in the best state of mind when she returns." Hanzo sounded slightly saddened.
"What do ya mean?" Cole was confused, not only by Hanzo's words but also his tone and body language. He seemed stressed, more fidgety and less composed than usual.
"Whenever Ashley is injured and taken off duty for a few days, she thinks she is worthless to the team. I have tried reasoning with her, but her reaction is not logical. It is caused by her history with the South African Specialist Unit." Hanzo usually didn’t like telling other people's secrets, but if Cole was going to stay, he should know.
"What do you usually do when she starts thinking like that?" He was genuinely curious. He vaguely remembered Ana talk about a similar situation with Reinhardt.
"The easiest way to deal with it is to stop her from thinking at all. I usually accomplish this by coaxing her into subspace, before she realizes why." Hanzo had a thoughtful look on his face as he walked towards the glass case in the hall.
Cole knew the glass case stored jewelry, but he was puzzled when Hanzo grabbed a small silver chain from the bottom shelf. It was a necklace, he soon realized. A collar in disguise. He had never imagined Ashley as a switch. After how dominant he's seen her, he always thought that she was a domme through and through.
"So what's the plan for when she walks through the door?"
"Use the trigger words, get her to kneel and then I need to secure this around her neck." Hanzo looked down at the fine chain in his hands, "Next I'll hurt her a little, before she realized why I'm doing what I'm doing." He took out his pocket knife, "Then all we have to do is let her stay in subspace by touching her or giving her something that she associates with us."
Cole lifted his eyebrows at the word "us". Since when was he so involved? Hanzo's eyes snapped to Cole. "I do think you might make this a lot simpler."
"Me?" Cole understood the idea and execution now but what he had to do with it, he had no clue.
"You are the perfect distraction. Just stay in her field of view and do not interfere with my process. She wouldn't even think about those trigger words with you here." Hanzo was smiling now as he sat down on the sofa, necklace still in hand.
~
An hour passed before Ashley walked through the door. She put down her bag at the door and hung her jacket on one of the hooks on the wall.
"Hey Hanzo, Cole."
Through that greeting alone, Cole suddenly understood how right Hanzo was. This thought process of hers made her depressed, not only audibly but visibly as well. Her posture had gone to hell.
Hanzo set his plan in motion immediately. "Ashley, would you be a doll and come here for a moment?"
She perked up and stared at him for a moment. Reading his face before walking over to Hanzo who was still sitting on the sofa.
"Yes, Ryú." Cole watched all her focus shift to Hanzo. Her eyes never strayed, zoned in solely on him.
Cole was amazed at how well that worked. Hanzo, however, was not convinced just yet.
"Bunny, will you kneel for me?" Hanzo watched as she sank down to her knees infront of him.
Cole watched her back straighten and her arms relax in her lap. She was already looking better. He was slightly surprised at how comfortable she looked. Despite her fatigue, her back was perfectly straight, hands on her thighs with her palms to the ceiling and she bowed her head. This was very clearly not the first time.
Ashley sighed in contentment the moment her knees hit the floor. She'd been hoping for this tonight. It was so much easier just listening to Hanzo's instructions than trying to think about what she should be doing. Being obedient was so much simpler.
Hanzo clipped the necklace around her neck. He cupped her face in both hands, making her look up at him.
It became clear to Hanzo that she was already halfway to where he wanted her. He took a deep breathe before making a small cut on her chest. She only let out a gasp as blood beaded on her pale skin. He cupped her face in his hand and she leaned into it immediately.
Good sign. He cut her again and recieved a similar reaction. Just for good measure, he cut her one last time. The cuts formed an "H" on her chest.
Just like that she was floating in her own world. Hanzo knew this well, she was in deep. He took her face in both his hands and pressed a kiss to her forehead. She rested her head in his hands, sinking into him.
To Cole, this was insane. She looked like she'd been hypnotized. Hanzo shot a glance at Cole before adressing her again.
"Doll, will you go with Cole to the balcony?" Ashley hummed in confirmation.
Cole, remembering what Hanzo told him, took her hand in his own and helped her to her feet. He held her hand all the way as he lead her to the balcony. She followed him without question.
It was endearing, how much she trusted Hanzo. She was focused solely on Hanzo the entire time. Now that focus shifted to Cole and he found himself enjoying the attention. He was well aware of the power he held in this moment and was also slightly surprised that Hanzo had entrusted him with it.
Once on the balcony, he sat down on the sofa, unsure whether he is to give Ashley instructions or not. To his relief Ashley obviously already knew what she should do or wanted to do. She sat down cross-legged on the floor, content with laying her head against Cole's legs.
Cole knew he should keep touching her but he didn't think having her sit against him counted so he gently ran his fingers through her hair. She tensed up for a moment.
"Doll, you can relax. He won't hurt you." Hanzo's voice came from the doorway. Every single muscle in Ashley's body relaxed. She was now fully leaning against Cole's legs, her head thrown back.
Hanzo put a few things on the glass table infront of the sofa. Gauze, cottonballs to clean Ashley's wound, and a bottle of orange liquid that Cole assumed to be to clean the wound.
Hanzo sat down next to Cole on the sofa. Immediately Ashley moved to kneel infront of him. He wrapped the wound, cleaning off the blood that had slowly started to drip. He looked surprised when she held out her arms to him, but he understood.
"Bunny, you haven't done this in years. What brought this on?" He was slightly worried now.
She wasn't verbal anymore, but her eyes gave him all the answers he needed. She briefly glanced at Cole, before looking back at Hanzo with sad eyes. Hanzo followed her gaze and realized exactly what she was thinking.
He removed the ribbon from his hair, before using it to tie her wrists together. Happy now, she waited for a cue from Hanzo. He gave it by removing his hand from her cheek. She went back to laying against Cole's leg, but she held eye contact with Hanzo. She still reached out her arms infront of her and Hanzo chuckled for a moment, before moving closer. He slowly put his legs through the hole between her arms and she bent them at the elbows, holding onto him as best as she could.
"So clingy tonight."
Hanzo looked at Cole, now much closer to him than he had been moments prior. Cole was staring at Ashley in amazement. His hand found her hair again and she tilted her head towards him to give better access. Hanzo commented on it.
"She's taken to you extremely well." Cole couldn't help but feel a little pride at that.
"I've never imagined her as a sub, nevermind one who was willing to go this far. How often does this happen?" He was genuinely interested and because of that Hanzo answered him.
"When we first started doing it, it was about once a month. Back then she never went this deep. Now it's about three or four times a year. She goes much deeper now though and I am more comfortable keeping her in this state for a long time." Hanzo answered Cole's questions as thoroughly as he could.
He had spoken with Ashley about doing more with Cole and they were both enthusiastic about it. If Cole was going to stick around, then he should know these things.
"Thank you for trusting me with this." Cole was once again touched by how vulnerable they were willing to be around him.
"You've entrusted us with much more." Hanzo looked at him with admiration. Cole frowned, not really understanding.
Hanzo sighed, slightly saddened by the fact that no one has ever spoken to Cole about this.
"You handed yourself to us as a sub, while you had no other Dom. You had no one who would be able to care for you, had Ashley and I not. At this moment, there is nothing you can really do to disturb Ashley too much, because she knows I'm here and that she can listen to me. You didn't have access to that same security when you came to us. It is part of the reason we insist on proper aftercare and time with you afterwards."
Cole looked like he understood but his mind caught on one thing, "Part of the reason?"
"We obviously enjoy caring for you too. You are a joy to work with after the fact because you are so obedient. You don't contest anything and you follow our lead. You tell us exactly what you need, whether you realize it or not."
Cole flushed red, never knowing himself as someone who was obedient. "It's a hell of a lot easier to just listen to the two of you, instead of trying to fight a losing battle. Besides I don't think Ashley would be willing to let go of me for more than five minutes."
Silence hung in the air for a while and after a few minutes, Cole started biting his lip. Hanzo sighed before slowly reaching out and cupping Cole's cheek. He used his thumb to pull Cole's lip out from under his teeth.
"You want to ask me something?"
Cole paused before answering in a very uncertain tone. "While Ashley is like this, will she just do everything you say or is there a limit?"
"If there is a limit, I have not found it and I do not intend to. She is so pliable when she is like this that she will do anything I tell her to."
Cole raised his eyebrows. The sheer amount of trust this woman puts in Hanzo is insane. He looked down at Ashley before asking his next question.
"Is she listening to us talk right now?"
"No, she only listens when she is addressed directly. She doesn't respond to her name while she is in this state. You can try asking her to do something if you want to. I'd like to see what she does."
"How do I..."
"Address her and ask her to do something simple."
Cole took a deep breath before opening his mouth.
"Doll, can ya straighten your legs for me?"
Ashley straightened her legs immediately, without question. Cole has never felt so powerful before. The next question came out before he could think it through.
"What's the worst thing you've asked her to do?"
Hanzo paused, rubbing his chin thoughtfully before answering.
"I have asked her to kill someone before and she did it. I think that may be the fastest that she's ever ripped someone apart."
Cole stared at him with wide eyes. Hanzo continued.
"It was a Shimada agent that broke our door down while we were doing exactly this. He walked into the livingroom where we were, holding a gun. I knew that Ashley was not going to snap out of it so I asked her to kill him. She grabbed her swords off the wall and butchered the poor man before he knew what was happening. I never told her about it and I don't think she remembers."
Cole looked down at Ashley, but she did not react to what Hanzo was saying at all. Suddenly, Cole understood their dynamic completely. What Hanzo just told him was the perfect summary of their relationship. Ashley was submissive to him but in the way a guard dog is submissive to its owner.
Hanzo looked down at Ashley before addressing her.
"Bunny, I'm quickly going to go to the kitchen. Stay here with Cole until I'm back."
Hanzo untangled himself from Ashley and walked away.
Cole looked down at Ashley who had moved her head to between his thighs. His hand found it's way to her nape, making her melt against him. It was cute, but also incredible, to see this bear-like warrior reduced to a harmless puddle.
He caught himself staring at the ribbon around her wrists. Nowhere in Hanzo's explanation could he remember a reason for it. But Hanzo seemed prepared. Was this a regular thing too?
Hanzo walked back onto the balcony, holding a bottle of sake and a pack of cigars. He produced a lighter from his pocket and handed it to Cole with the cigars.
"Well, aren't you considerate?" Cole immediately stuck one in his mouth before lighting it.
Hanzo opened the bottle of sake and took a sip, "Ashley's idea." He paused, "Speaking of, Bunny, come sit up here."
Ashley looked up at him before moving and laying down on top of them, her head in Hanzo's lap and her body draped over Cole's. Hanzo's hand rested on her neck. Cole smirked slightly at Hanzo's possessiveness.
Ashley didn’t seem to mind, looking up at Hanzo. Compared to his eyes, the stars in the sky seemed like an after thought.
Cole ran his hand over her legs, before his fingers trailed back up to her waist. He started repeating this, noticing how her muscles relaxed underneath his touch.
Still Cole's eyes found the ribbon around her wrists. It wasn't even doing much as she could easily free herself. He stared at the piece of fabric quizzically, unaware that Hanzo was studying him. He read Cole like a book.
"It fixes an old problem that seemed to have resurfaced."
Cole turned to him, an eyebrow raised. Hanzo jumped into an explanation.
"When we first started doing this, we had an incident where she accidentally hurt me. She felt bad and demanded that she'd always be in bondage whenever she's in subspace, so she couldn't injure me again. After three years without problems, she went back to being fine without it. But today, she wanted me to restrain her again. I'll ask her later, but for now I can only assume that she is afraid to hurt you."
Cole was surprised. Looking down at Ashley, he wondered what she possibly could've done to Hanzo while in this state. Then he remembered the Shimada agent. Yikes.
The silence between them stretched on and the breeze on the balcony grew cold. Cole slowly moved closer to Hanzo, careful not to disturb Ashley. He reached out, tossing an arm over Hanzo's shoulders and pulling the archer closer to him.
Hanzo allowed this, leaning against Cole with his head against Cole's chest. He appreciated Cole's heat. Reaching behind him, Hanzo grabbed Ashley's blanket off the back of the couch and draped it over them. He slid his arm around Cole's waist.
Cole released a puff of smoke from his lungs as Hanzo took one last sip of sake. He put the bottle on the table before tucking himself further into Cole's side and closing his eyes.
Cole watched Hanzo fall asleep against him. Ashley sturred on top of him and Cole checked the time, seeing that it was past eleven already.
He finished smoking his cigar before trailing his fingers over Ashley's stomach.
"Doll, will you carry Hanzo to bed? I'll join you in a moment."
When Ashley nodded Cole removed the ribbon from her wrists, but Ashley paused. Cole caught on and tied the ribbon in a bow around one of her wrists. This seemed to satisfy her as she hoisted Hanzo up, grabbing him under the thighs, she let him slump against her chest. She moved carefully, not wanting to wake him.
Cole put the sake on the kitchen counter and locked the door to the balcony. He walked into the master bedroom.
Ashley laid on the bed on her side while she hugged Hanzo tightly. The archer was still fast asleep, curled up in her arms. Cole joined her, wrapping his arms around her waist and spooning her.
Summary: Cole had an exhausting day and needs something to clear his mind. He knocks on Ashley and Hanzo's door and finds exactly what he was looking for.
Cole stood in his room, in only his boxers, and stared at his mirror. A few hours ago he had the best sex of his life and now he was seeing the aftermath of that.
His neck and shoulders were covered in bruises and bite marks. He still had red lines around his neck because of his own belt. His lips were still sensitive and a little puffy. His hair was out of control.
He looked in the mirror as he pressed his fingers against some of the bruises on his neck. It stung a little, but it was a good sting. He continued, pressing every single one and closing his eyes. He could almost feel Ashley's mouth on him again.
Eventually he moved up to the strangulation marks around his neck. He ran his fingers over them, remembering how easy it was to give Hanzo control over him like that. He smiled slightly as he recalled the lustful look in Hanzo's eyes.
The aftercare meant a lot to Cole. It made him trust them even more, knowing that they knew exactly what he needed and were willing to give it to him.
It felt so good, lying in bed between the two of them. Ashley kept her arms around him for more than six hours yesterday and Hanzo probably kissed him more than a hundred times. It touched his soul.
~
After a few weeks the bruises were gone and Cole had gone back to interacting with Ashley and Hanzo as if that night did not happen. He decided that it would be better to remain professional around the rest of the team.
He missed the bruises though. He missed poking them infront of the mirror in the mornings and inevitably thinking of the night he spent with them. It saddened him as he realized that there was no longer any evidence that that night happened at all. All he had now were memories.
He craved more.
~
The next day was hectic. Between having to deal with a sketchy informant and finding out that their biggest lead was a dead end, Cole was having a day. He was tired of everyone's bullshit.
He stood alone in his room. The clock read: 19:36. He glanced at the mirror, suddenly being reminded of that night. He needed more. And he needed it now.
Making his decision, he walked down the hall to their room. For a moment he paused. Would they want him there? Were they be mad at him? Would they reject him?
Hanzo's voice echoed in his brain, "All you need to do is ask and we'll be there."
He knocked on the door, deciding to shoot his shot. As usual it was Ashley who answered.
"Hey, Cole. What can we do for you?" She smiled at him.
He didn’t reply, instead just walking forward into the apartment. But like last time, Ashley didn't budge. He walked right into her, before leaning against her. She pulled him into a hug and closed the door.
"That bad, huh?" Cole spotted Hanzo on the sofa as Ashley continued, "Is there anything we can do to help?"
"Fuck me raw." Cole mumbled against her.
"Sorry?" Ashley wasn't sure she heard that correctly.
Cole lifted his head, "Fuck me, until I'm stupid. I don't want to think another thought tonight."
Hanzo smirked and rose from the sofa, "We can do that." He nodded at Ashley who understood immediately.
She put her hands underneath Cole's thighs, before lifting him up. She carried him effortlessly towards the bedroom. He was thrown down on the bed. She took off her top, giving Cole a fantastic view. He reached out to her and she complied.
Ashley put her hands on either side of his head and hovered over him. She pressed a kiss to his lips and started removing his clothing one piece as a time. She deliberately left his hat on his head.
"I'm just gonna leave that there for Hanzo." She whispered.
Hanzo entered the room with a few things, but he hid it from Cole by standing behind Ashley. All Cole could see was the smirk on his face.
Ashley kissed him deeply again, taking his mind off Hanzo. He realized that he was naked now, except for his boxers. He broke the kiss, desperately wanting to ask them a favour.
"Please leave bruises again. A few scratches would be nice too. I spent two weeks poking at them every damn morning. I'd appreciate it if they lasted longer this time too."
Ashley looked amused, moving down to immediately bite down on his neck while she raked her nails down his chest. He arched his back as he grabbed hold of her hair.
Hanzo laughed at his confession. He grabbed Cole's belt that Ashley left on the bed before making his way towards Cole. He carefully removed Cole's fingers from her hair and pinned Cole's wrists against the mattress. He tied Cole's wrists together with the belt.
Cole was slightly disappointed that his belt would not go around his neck this time. His disappointment was shortlived though because Hanzo read him like a book.
"I realize that you'd prefer the belt around you're neck, but I'll assure you that our hands will do just fine." Hanzo snatched the hat off Cole's head before carefully placing it on his own head.
Ashley snorted before adding, "Amen."
Cole would've replied with something snarky had Ashley not begun sucking the sensitive skin along his inner thigh. She spread his legs, giving herself more room to work with.
Hanzo kissed Cole deeply, once again tasting every crevice of his mouth. Cole moaned into his mouth as he bit Cole's bottom lip. Breaking the kiss, Hanzo looked to make eye contact with Ashley, but she was preoccupied.
Amused, Hanzo called to her, "Dove, do you mind?"
"Not at all." She gripped Cole's waist with one hand and his thigh with the other before lifting him up and flipping him onto his stomach. Cole was amazed. She just flipped him like a damn coin. Like he weighted nothing. He desperately wanted to explore every single way that she could manhandle him.
Once on his stomach he adjusted his bound arms, extending them above his head and bending his elbows upwards. He buried his face in the pillow.
Ashley grabbed him by the hips, pulling them up and pulling him near the edge of the bed. She trailed her fingers up his back while she grabbed lube from the bedside table. He lifted his head of the bed, supporting himself with his elbows. He tried to watch what she was doing.
Hanzo crouched beside him, now shirtless. He grabbed the back of Cole's neck, squeezing just a little. Cole turned to face Hanzo and the hand on his neck moved to his hair. Hanzo carded his fingers through Cole's hair. He could see Cole's eyes close and his muscles relax. His head hit the mattress again, any second thoughts dying off.
"Such a good pet for us."
The praise went straight to his already-hard dick. Hanzo's hand was joined by a bigger hand wrapping around the back of Cole's neck, pressing him into the mattress. His eyes snapped open as he felt wet fingers trace the rim of his hole. He hadn't even noticed his boxers disappear.
Ashley tightened her grip on his neck while she pushed a cold finger into his hole. She curled her finger inside of him and he let out a moan. Hanzo sat beside him on the bed, tracing the lines on Cole's back with his fingers.
Ashley pushed another finger into Cole's hole. He moaned loudly, whimpering as she started moving her fingers. Hanzo watched Cole's face intently.
"You enjoy this part much more than I expected you to, Cowboy. You're a desperate little pet, aren't you?"
Ashley added another finger, spreading him open. He bit his lip in an attempted to stifle a moan. Hanzo's gentle caressing turned into scratching. Cole caught on and let go of his lip. Hanzo smiled.
"Our pet is learning quickly. Good."
Ashley nodded at Hanzo and he stood up. Ashley removed her fingers from Cole's hole and recieved a whine. Hanzo chuckled, while sliding a condom over his dick and lubing it up. Ashley playfully rolled her eyes, appearing in Cole's field of vision.
"Darling, you took my fingers so well."
She sat next to Cole while Hanzo lined himself up with Cole's hole. He slowly pushed inside, making Cole gasp. He gave Cole a moment to adjust before pushing in the rest of the way. Ashley stroked Cole's hair, speaking gently to him.
"Relax, honey. It'll feel good in a second."
Hanzo looked to her for a cue to start moving. He held on to Cole's thighs, slowing pounding into him. He earned a loud moan from the man underneath him.
He went deeper, aiming for Cole's g-spot. A shout confirmed that he had found it. He thrust against that spot and managed to draw unholy noises for Cole.
"Oh god. Fuck~... that feels so good."
Ashley looked behind her to find that Hanzo was close. She reached for Cole's dick. She pumped him at the pace that Hanzo was fucking him. Cole whimpered before screaming as he came. Hanzo followed with a groan.
Hanzo pulled out, removed the condom and went to sit on Cole's other side. Ashley stood up, grabbing her strapon from the desk. Hanzo drew Cole's attention as he sat infront of him. He pulled him closer by his bound wrists. Cole caught on, using Hanzo's shoulders to support himself by trapping Hanzo's head between his arms.
Hanzo pressed a kiss to Cole's lips, not bothered by the extra weight on his shoulders. He looked at Cole's eyes. They were glazed over.
Ashley applied lube to her strapon before gently pushing into Cole. He gasped; she was bigger than Hanzo. She fucked him slow, taking extra care to hit his g-spot every time.
Hanzo watched as Cole's eyes rolled back in his head. He pressed a kiss to Cole's lips, holding it until Cole was breathless. He tangled one hand in Cole's hair while the other wrapped firmly around his throat. He squeezed just enough for Cole to be lightheaded.
Cole was nearly delirious. Between Ashley pounding his ass and Hanzo sticking his tongue down his throat, he could barely remember his own damn name. Hanzo choked him just right. The hand pulling at his hair applying perfect pressure.
Ashley grabbed his hips hard enough to bruise as she fucked him. She's pounded into him at a constant slow pace for a while now. It was agonizingly slow, but still somehow too much. Cole needed more, knowing he wouldn't be able to handle it. He was hard as a rock again.
Ashley caught on, wrapping one hand around his dick. She thrusted into him hard enough to forced his dick into her hand. He screamed out her name. She repeated her action and this time he came in her hand. She pulled out, patting him on the hip.
"Took it like a good boy."
Cole's head dropping in exhaustion and Hanzo took it as an opportunity to kiss the top of his head. Ashley took off the strapon before unbuckling the belt that bound Cole's wrists. He collapsed onto Hanzo and wrapped his arms around the archer. Hanzo smiled, hugging him back. He figured the man deserved some praise.
"Such a perfect pet."
Ashley smiled at the two before walking into the bathroom. She threw the condom in the bin and cleaned off the strapon. She turned on the shower, letting the water warm up to Hanzo's preferred temperature. Walking into the bedroom she saw Hanzo kiss Cole on the forehead.
Hanzo already clicked. He pulled Cole up, almost carrying him towards the bathroom.
Ashley got to work changing the sheets and tidying up. Spotting Cole's hat, she hung it on one of the clothing hooks that held Hanzo's jacket. She decided it looked at home there.
She checked the fridge as well for something interesting. She grabbed a bottle of water for each of them and spotted some blueberries and apricots that she had bought that morning.
While Ashley scoured the fridge, Hanzo helped Cole into a warm shower. Cole sank down to the floor the first chance he got. Hanzo washed Cole's hair while the cowboy kneeled against him. He wrapped his arms around Hanzo's legs, Hanzo being fairly certain that it's the only thing holding him upright.
After rinsing his hair, Hanzo decided that this was the most he was going to accomplish. He turned the water off and dried Cole off as well as himself.
Cole saw Ashley sitting on the bed with the game controller in her hand and a bowl of apricots in her lap. Hanzo helped him onto the bed and Ashley gave him a bottle of cold water and a bowl of fruit.
"You're not going anywhere until that bottle is empty and you've eaten all of this."
"Yes ma'am."
Hanzo and Ashley smiled at each other, both being relieved at the conformation that Cole was fine. Ashley handed Hanzo a bowl of blueberries that she washed for him before gesturing to the water bottle on his nightstand. Hanzo moved closer to Cole, sandwiching him between himself and Ashley.
Ashley sat up as she settled on a game to play, her bowl sat in her lap. Cole leaned against her for a few minutes, watching how she played Minecraft. Then Hanzo leaned in to whisper in his ear,
"Would you mind laying down on your stomach? I'd like to massage those knots out of your back."
Cole didn’t need to be asked twice. He flopped down on his stomach, letting Hanzo sit on his lower back. The archer firmly slid his hands across Cole's back.
"Just relax, precious. I would never hurt you."
Cole went limp underneath Hanzo. He let out small moans as Hanzo massaged his back pain away. He kept his eyes on the TV, watching Ashley build a blue concrete fishing hut next to a lake.
"It's unbelievable to think that you two chill assholes fucked me stupid 30 minutes ago."
Ashley snorted before replying, "I don't hear you complaining."
Hanzo added helpfully, "In fact, I distinctly remember you being such a good boy for us."
~
AN: I think this is my favorite dynamic thus far. The slight teasing mixed with desperation makes it so easy to write. The dialogue pretty much writes itself. Enjoy.
Summary: Ashley just came back from a mission, badly injured. Hanzo, her boyfriend, takes care of her while she rests and Cole realizes that his crush on them both has gone much further than expected.
Cassidy frowned at Ana as she opened the front door of Hanzo's apartment. She gestured at someone behind her to enter. Brigitte stuck her head through the door before helping Ashley into the room. She had her arm around Brigitte's shoulders as Brigitte held her by the waist. It was very clear that she could not walk on her own. Cassidy jumped up from the couch, immediately helping Brigitte to support Ashley.
"Hey, what happened?" He looked at Ana for an explanation.
"The mission went south. It was supposed to be a stealthy ambush but Talon had backup and we were outnumbered. Alpha, Jack's unit, tried to catch up with us to help but by the time they got to us she had been holding the frontline alone for more than 30 minutes. Reinhardt was able to get her out and into the jet but without Angela it took us a very long time to patch her up. Brigitte, Lucio and I sat for more than six hours, trying to stitch her up and remove all the shrapnel from Mauga's guns. We did our best."
Brigitte gave him a sympathetic look before guiding Ashley to lay down on the blue couch.
"She'll be better in the morning, she mostly just needs rest."
Brigitte handed him a bottle of painkillers. He squinted at the lable, before his eyebrows shot up. Holy shit, 250mg tablets of Tramadol, he thought.
Ana and Brigitte took their leave and Cole turned his attention to Ashley.
He took in her appearance as she turned to look at the TV. The bags under her bloodshot eyes worried him but it was not nearly as concerning as the bruises and scratches covering her entire body. Not to mention the amount of bandages. Only now did he realize that she was wearing a different set of clothes which consisted of a big T-shirt (probably belonging to Reinhardt), gym shorts from her locker and slippers.
Realistically Cole knew that the woman in front of him was a foot taller than him, evident by her knees dangling off the couch, but in that moment she looked so small. He handed her the TV remote, before turning towards the kitchen door.
"I'll be right back. I'm just going to find Hanzo."
Ashley turned over onto her side. "Thanks, Cole. I'm just gonna take a quick nap here..." Her words turned into a yawn. Soft snoring followed almost immediately.
Cole smiled before walking into the kitchen. He found Hanzo infront of the kettle stirring tea. He handed Cole some coffee before walking past him into the livingroom.
"I heard what Ana said. You can leave the pills on the counter." Cole did just that, plopping the bottle down before following Hanzo back into the livingroom.
"Ashley does not look okay. I know Ana and Brig worked on her, but she's still not looking too good. I think they're waiting for Angela before doing more." Cole replied in a hushed tone.
Hanzo stared into his cup for a moment before setting it down on the coffee table. He lifted Ashley's legs, sat down on the blue couch and let them rest on his lap. Hanzo then shared his thoughts.
"I knew sending her on this mission was a questionable decision on Jack's part. He knew that she was overworked and he still sent her even after Ana told him not to. I can only assume that he was trying to test Ashley's limits for himself." He whispered.
Cole suddenly realized how observant Hanzo really is, even while not involving himself in the situation at all. It shows how deeply he cares about Ashley, even if he insists on being stoic about it. His hand trailed over her leg repeatedly, from hip to ankle and back up. Cole couldn't help but notice how gently he handled her. He also couldn't help but notice the way Hanzo's muscles flexed slightly every time he moved.
"I never knew Jack to be a cruel man, but sending a tank who specializes in close combat to hunt down a team of snipers... That's just mean."
"Jack changed after the Switzerland incident. We might now be seeing the effects of that."
"And I thought I knew the man. Was Winston involved as well, ya think?" Cole took a sip of coffee, patiently waiting to hear more about Hanzo's perspective. It was refreshing, albeit slightly unnerving, to hear such honest opinions. Ashley and Hanzo had been a part of Overwatch for almost a year now, but he still refused to be blinded to reality by trust and admiration.
"Definitely. He hasn't formally stepped up to fill Ana's prior position as captain, but he has access to all mission briefs and reports. Although, I still cannot fathom how he allowed it."
"I don't think he knew about the all details of the mission. Those reports aren't as proper or as complete as they used to be. He might not have even known about the people they were after."
He took another sip of coffee. Hanzo ran a hand through his hair before replying. "Perhaps. Winston seems to enjoy Ashley's company."
Cole was barely listening, instead focusing on how long Hanzo's hair had gotten and how it would feel to run his own hands through it. C'mon, get yourself together. He is in a relationship. Cole scolded himself.
"Yeah, definitely."
Hanzo raised an eyebrow at his airy tone and the red creeping up his neck. Cole avoided eye contact, instead turning to look at Ashley.
Cole took a moment to really look at her. She was laying on her left side with her arms tucked into her chest. Her legs stretched over Hanzo's lap and her feet hung over the edge of the couch. He noticed the dip of her stomach and imagined how perfectly his hand would fit against her waist. His thoughts did not become purer as his eyes traveled up to her breasts.
He caught Hanzo's eye and quickly averted his gaze. He hit his hands on his knees and stood up.
"Alright, well, I'd best be off. Enjoy the rest of your night."
Hanzo had a small smirk on his face as he stood up as well, pressing a kiss to Ashley's cheek before leading Cole towards the door.
Cole walked out of the apartment, but Hanzo stopped him with a hand on his arm. He leaned in to whisper in his ear.
"All you have to do is ask."
Hanzo pressed a kiss right below his ear before moving away and closing the door. Cole was left in the corridor, bright red and feeling like a dumbass teenage boy.
~
The next few weeks Cole didnt speak to them much and he thought his crush on them died, until one morning Cole found Ashley in the cafeteria, talking to Genji. She wore a sports bra and shorts, showing more skin than he had the dignity for.
The most noticeable thing was the angry red lines on her back and arms. Scratch marks. He frowned.
"What happened to you? You looked like you were mauled by a bear."
Ashley replied casually, "I was."
"Bear... dragon... same thing really." Genji's tone matched Ashley's, but he wore a suggestive smirk, raising an eyebrow at her.
Ashley shot Genji a look, but made no effort to deny what he was saying and Cole stared questioningly at the two. Genji was not deterred, choosing to tease her for a moment more.
"Ashley, we both know I'm right."
She glared at him while she took a sip of coffee. Cole's eyes widened as he then realized what Genji meant by "dragon".
He looked Ashley in the eye, but she only winked at him. He was dumbfounded and standing there like an idiot.
Ashley stood up. She put her hand on Cole's shoulder and leaned down to whisper in his ear, "Ask and you shall recieve." She walked past him, nonchalantly taking a sip of her coffee while on her way to her and Hanzo's shared apartment.
Cole stood rooted to the floor, his eyes wide. Genji looked slightly worried.
"What did she just tell you?"
Cole finally found his feet and turned around, bolting after Ashley. Genji stood there with a frown on his scarred face.
"I'm still waiting for an answer... and he's gone."
~
Cole banged his fist against the wooden door infront of him, sounding more desperate than he would've liked to.
Inside, Hanzo smirked. Ashley shot him a grin as she strutted towards the door.
"What did you say to him? It was enough to make him run."
"Nothing you haven't told him before."
Ashley opened the door slowly, acting innocent as a lamb.
"Hey, Cole. What are you doing here?" She gave him a deceptively sweet smile.
He walked towards her, assuming that Ashley will move and let him through the door. She didn't, letting him almost walk into her. Her innocent expression slowly turned into something mischievous.
"Please." That was the most desperate thing Cole had ever heard in his life and he was still struggling to believe that it came out of his mouth.
"Please, what? You'll have to ask for what you want, darling." Her eyes were dark as she looked down at him.
One percent of Cole's brain wanted to turn away. Unfortunately ninety percent of him was a hundred percent willing to dive headfirst into this. And nine percent of him was willing to do literally anything to hear her call him darling again.
"Can I come in, please?"
The door swung open and Ashley stepped out of the way. She smirked as Cole stood in the centre of the room. The look on Hanzo's face told her that this would be fun.
"Now, what else do you want, Cowboy?" Hanzo's tone was teasing, almost taunting. Ashley took to leaning against the closed door.
Cole felt trapped, like some kind of animal. What was happening? Why was he so scared? Realistically he knew he was taller than Hanzo but right now, it doesn't feel like it.
"I... um I don't know."
Ashley chuckled darkly. She stepped closer tracing his jaw with her fingers. His face burned red.
"Oh, honey, that's not true and you know it. Now, what do you want?"
Cole took a deep breath, hanging his head before answering with a whisper.
"Will you kiss me, please?"
Ashley smiled before leaning down and gently pressing her lips against his. Not even a second later, she pulled away. Cole whined at the loss of contact.
"Please."
"Please, what?" Hanzo's smile could be heard as he stalked towards Cole.
"Kiss me properly." Cole was gaining confidence.
Hanzo stood on his toes to kiss Cole, putting one hand on his cheek and the other in his hair. He forced his tongue into Cole's mouth, making sure to taste every corner. He broke the kiss, seemingly lost in his thoughts as he tilted Cole's head upward. He stared at the tan skin below.
"Do it." Cole spurred him on. Hanzo looked at him, faking confusion.
"What?" Ashley snickered behind Cole, as Hanzo made eye contact with her. This was a game they usually played against each other, but it was even more fun to be on the same team. Especially against Cole.
"Bite me, scratch me, pull my hair. I don't care. Just please, use me." Cole gave up on his dignity all together, deciding that he needed them more than he needed his pride.
Ashley chuckled as Hanzo latched onto Cole's tanned skin. "And what would using you entail?"
"Anything you want, please. Treat me like you own me. Tell me what to do and I'll do it. Please just touch me." He sounded like an addict, even to his own ears.
Ashley and Hanzo shared a glance, matching grins on their faces. Hanzo took action first, ripping off Cole's hat and placing it on his own head.
Ashley yanked on Cole's hair, forcing him to look up at her. She smirked at the slight fear in his eyes.
"Darling, we do own you."
She dragged him into their bedroom, Hanzo trailing behind and stopping to grab something. Cole followed Ashley eagerly, only wincing slightly at her grip in his hair. It hurt so good. She made him sit down on the bed's edge.
"Take off your shirt." Cole complied immediately, removing his serape and his shirt while she walked around the bed and sat down in the middle against the pillows.
The moment his shirt was off, he felt hands at his sides. In one swift motion, Ashley grabbed him by the belt and pulled him into her lap. He yelped. He hadn't expected her to be strong enough to lift him, nevermind manhandle him like this. Fuck, it was hot.
Hanzo walked into the room with rope, the hat still on his head. He smiled at Cole's wide eyes. He climbed on the bed, stopping right in front of Cole. He pecked Cole on the lips, before skillfully removing the ribbon from his hair and tying it around Cole's head, blindfolding him.
"There is no reason you should get to see what we do to you." Hanzo purred in Cole's ear. Only now did he realized how sexy Hanzo's voice was. Perfect pitch with the ideal amount of rasp.
Cole felt big hands trail up his naked chest, stopping to pinch his nipple before continuing. Cold fingers traced the lines between his abs, making him shiver. He bit his lip in an effort to stifle a moan as Ashley rolled his other nipple between her fingers.
Hanzo caressed Cole's chin, before using his thumb to pull his bottom lip out from under sharp teeth.
"Do not try to be quiet. We wish to hear how good we make you feel."
Ashley smiled mischievously at Hanzo. She pinched and rolled Cole's nipple again. He let out a whimper. Hanzo grinned and kissed Cole, while motioning at Ashley to continue.
She bit down on Cole's neck, leaving bite marks, hickeys and bruises on his skin. He moaned into Hanzo's mouth and let Hanzo's tongue slip into his mouth.
Cole raised his arms, aiming to grab Hanzo's waist. Strong hands caught his own and raised them above his head. His wrists were tied together and his arms landed on Hanzo's shoulders, enough space for Hanzo's head in the middle.
Cole found that he couldn’t really move. With Ashley's legs trapping his own, he was fixed to the spot. His back was flush against her. His hands, now bound, were useless and he was, surprisingly, fine with it. In fact, he enjoyed it. Handing the reigns to someone else felt nice. It was freeing.
Ashley started playing with both Cole's nipples at the same time, her mouth still latched onto his neck. She sucked purple splotches onto his skin, ensuring that there will be visible reminders to their visit.
Cole whimpered pathetically in response to her meddling. It felt so good, but it wasn’t enough. Even when she pinched him harder than he thought he could handle, he practically melted in her arms. It hurt, but it hurt so nicely.
Hanzo moved closer pressing his knee against Cole's crotch. He found that Cole was already hard. The man underneath him gasped at the pressure.
"Poor pet, aching for us." Hanzo's voice rang in his ears. And honestly Cole wished for it to get stuck there.
Hanzo assaulted his lips, nipping at them until there was blood. Meanwhile his hands moved down to unbuckle Cole's belt. He broke the kiss and secured the belt around Cole's neck, pulling at the tail to make it tighter.
The cold metal buckle pressed into his soft skin. He gulped as he felt the belt tighten. Not enough to block his airway completely, but definitely enough to make him feel it. It was so hot, having his own buckle pressed into his skin and giving up so much control to someone. It was exhilarating. He felt his mind melt a little bit while his lips parted in an effort to let more air into his lungs.
Hanzo pulled on the belt and tangled the other hand in Cole's hair. He put more pressure on Cole's dick, drawing dirty sounds from the man beneath him.
Cole was overstimulated. He couldn’t handle two pairs of hands, two mouths and a knee pressing against him all at the same time, but he was nearly delirious with pleasure. He barely registered the tears flowing down his cheeks.
Ashley's hand trailed down his front, going beneath his pants and his boxers. She wrapped her hand around his painfully hard dick. She gave it a pump and it was enough to make him burst. He came in his jeans. Nearly untouched.
Hanzo kissed him deeply once more before removing himself from between Cole's bound arms. He removed the belt from around his neck. Followed by the rope tying his wrists together.
Ashley pressed a long soft kiss against the side of Cole's neck, mentally counting the bruises she left. 14. 17. 22. 25. 26. Enough for now. She untied the knot on the back of his head, releasing the blindfold and handing the ribbon back to Hanzo.
Hanzo looked at Cole, studying his eyes. He sat down on the bed infront of Cole, cupping his face in both his hands and pressing a soft kiss to his red and swollen lips. Ashley's arms wrapped around Cole's waist as she leaned to whisper in his ear.
"You did so good for us, darling."
"Such a good pet." Hanzo echoed.
Cole turned around in Ashley's lap and collapsed against her. She wrapped her arms around him, hugging him tight. She knew that he was still probably in subspace.
Hanzo disappeared into the kitchen, quickly returning with a glass of water and some chocolate. He sat down next to them, patiently rubbing circles into Cole's back.
"I have some water for you when you're ready." Hanzo's tone was softer than Cole had ever heard it before or knew was possible.
Cole was touched by how gently they handled him. They were patient, letting him take his time. They were sensitive to his needs like being held and told words of affirmation. They were considerate. It brought tears to his eyes. It broke him to know how much they cared for him. How sincerely they cared for him.
Ashley noticed tears falling onto her shirt. She leaned over for a moment to grab a tissue from the nightstand. She gave it to him as Hanzo hugged him as well.
"Aww, darling. We've got you." She pressed a kiss to Cole's temple. Hanzo gently took one of his hands before pressing delicate, slow, kisses to Cole's knuckles.
Cole let out a sob. What had he done to deserve these two?
Another sob racked his body, followed by even more pathetic sounds. Ashley began gently rocking back and forth while Hanzo rubbed Cole's back and held his hand.
After a few minutes, Cole was still again. Hanzo offered him water, which he gratefully accepted. He nibbled on a piece of chocolate, still sat in Ashley's lap. Hanzo moved to sit next to Ashley, content with leaning against her and watching Cole drink his water.
Cole downed the rest of his water before turning around to face them. His eyes were still puffy and his lip quivered. He made an effort to look them in the eye.
"Thank you. That was wonderful. Thank you for taking care of me afterwards as well. And being so nice about it." He had been genuinely surprised by how sincere they were. "I really appreciate that."
He moved towards the end of the bed, but Ashley caught his hand. She looked into his glass eyes as she asked,
"What makes you think we're going to stop now?"
"You want me here?" The look of confusion on Cole's face broke Ashley's heart. His tone suggested genuine surprise.
"Yes, we want you here. We enjoy having you here and we want to be certain that you are alright." Hanzo always managed to provide logical and clear answers when Ashley was unable to. Tonight was no different.
All Ashley managed to do was pull Cole back towards them and wrap her arms around him. Hanzo spooned him from behind.
"Y'all are gonna make me cry again. Thank you."
"Anytime." Ashley meant that.
"Cole, remember; all you need to do is ask and we'll be here." Hanzo put it nicely.
~
AN: this might be the sweetest aftercare I've every written. It is so cute I want to squeeze it to death. Enjoy.
Aaron sighed as Emily pulled him into a pub by the sleeve. Morgan ushered him in from behind as Penelope and JJ laughed behind them. He learned a long time ago to just let it happen. But he had questions.
"Why don't you drag Rossi along? Why do you bother me?" He frowned, trying to find an answer on his own. He did not manage to predict Morgan's answer.
"Because Rossi consistently gets lucky. You... not so much."
"I can sort out my own sex life thank you very much. And 'get lucky', really? The seventies called, they want their slang back."
"Ow Hotch, that burned." Emily laughed as Derek's hand went to clutch his chest. Aaron let a smile slip onto his face. Maybe tonight won't be so bad after all.
~
They settled in with Emily, JJ and Penelope grabbing a booth as Aaron and Derek approached the bar to get drinks. A young woman sat at the bar, having a conversation with the female bartender. The bartender was leaning over the countertop giggling at the woman who wore a smirk.
The bartender, Kayla, turned to Derek when he walked up. The other woman turned to look at Hotch. She looked him up and down. Hotch made eye contact with her, but looked away flustered when she winked at him. Instead of looking at her he focused on the wine collection visible behind the bar. He could still feel her eyes on him but he ignored it. His eyes found a specefic bottle of red, but he looked away when Derek handed him some drinks. He returned to his table as the women continued their chat.
His friends was already deep in conversation, but after he put the drinks down, he couldn't focus on them. His mind kept going back to Kayla's friend. She was pretty, but what drew him was the way she looked at him. She was attracted to him and direct about it. She wasn't shy or ashamed, she straight up winked at him.
He turned around to see if she was still there. She caught his eye and winked at him again. Kayla still giggling next to her. He looked away. Since when was he shy?
He took a sip of his whiskey and tried to focus on his friends.
~
Three hours later Emily and Garcia were drunk and giggling. JJ, the designated driver, was laughing with them. Derek was trying to chat up some girl on the dance floor. Hotch looked around and decided it was time to go home, but just then Kayla walked up to their table and placed a single drink on the table, a glass of red wine. She pushed it towards him with a smile.
"This is from the lady in the denim jacket sitting at the bar."
He looked around and it was her, now having a denim jacket over her tank top. She smirked at him, lifting an eyebrow. He turned back to Kayla.
"What is it?"
"Leeuwenkuil, Heritage Reserve Red. From 1989."
His eyes widened and Kayla walked away, leaving him stunned. Garcia looked at him in confusion.
"What does that mean?"
"Leeuwenkuil is a very expensive wine brand all the way from South Africa. Reserve Red means that it is a combination of Shiraz, Cabinet, Pinotage and other wines. It's some of the best quality wine that has ever been produced. And this, being so old must have cost a fortune. That glass is worth its weight in gold." JJ answered as Hotch took a sip, still wondering whether this was actually happening. This is from the bottle he was staring at.
He drank his wine as quickly as possible, still trying to savour the delicate, rich flavour. As soon as the glass was empty he stood up, hastily making his way to the bar with the glass, the woman in his sights. She saw him making his way over and poured more wine into her glass. She bought the whole bottle. He sat down next to her. She had a smirk on her face.
"I'm guessing you liked your treat." Her voice sounded smooth with a low tone that could put any man on his knees. She sounded amused as she poured him another glass.
"How'd you know I was staring at it?" He asked. She was still maintaining eye contact with him and for some stupid reason it made him flustered.
"You have good taste in whiskey, I figured you'd have good taste in wine as well." She took a sip from her glass. "My name is Andrea, but you can call me whatever you'd like."
"I'm Aaron. Friends call me Hotch."
"I'll stick with Aaron. I'm hoping to become more than just a friend tonight." Hotch looked down, blushing now with a stupid smile on his face. This girl was gonna be the death of him. He took a sip of wine to cool himself down. He figured he had to say something now, but all he really wanted to do was to get her talking again.
"How much did the wine cost you?" His voice was more stable than he thought it would be.
"For the bottle, 900, but my prize will be worth so much more." He took another sip of his wine. When he saw the glint in her eyes, he knew in how much trouble he was.
"I'm not going to make it out of this alive, am I?"
She laughed before finishing the rest of her wine. She stood up, putting her wallet and phone in her jacket pockets.
"If you come back to my place, I'll make sure your death tastes oh so sweet." She offered him a hand. He hurriedly drank his wine before taking her hand and letting her pull him up. She signaled to Kayla and lead Hotch out to the parking lot. Kayla seemed to understand even though he didn't.
She kept hold of his hand, keeping it warm as they walked in the cold winter night. Only now did he realize that she was only an inch or two shorter than him.
She lead him towards a sleek navy blue SUV. She climbed into the driver's seat and he walked around to the passenger's side. The car had a fancy interior, with black leather seats and matte black details everywhere else, it felt luxurious.
I was comforting in a way, to know that she had money of her own. If this became serious, he wouldn't have to worry about her only being with him for his money. He forced that thought out of his head. He's known her for less than an hour and he is already negative about this, even though there is no reason to be.
Andrea pulled into the drive way of a fancy two-story house. Hotch stared in awe at the building as he got out of the car. She lead him to the front door, ushering him in. The door closed behind her and Hotch already had his arms around her waist.
Andrea gently pecked him on the lips, placing one of her hands on his cheek, the other on the side of his neck. She smiled at him.
"Aaron, will you let me spoil you tonight?"
There was something about her caring tone that restored Hotch's faith in humanity. She looked at him with stars in her honest eyes, like she wanted to give him the world and more. Never before has Hotch felt wanted like this in his life. It melted his heart.
"Please do."
She pressed her lips against his, going at a slow pace, which he appreciated. He kissed her back, soaking up the heat from her hands on his skin. He could still taste wine on her lips.
She leaned into him, pressing her body against his. He hugged her tighter letting her lead him to the sofa. She pushed him down and straddled his lap as he sat down. She pulled away for a second, taking a breath, before gently pressing her lips against his again.
It was intimate. More than Aaron had ever experienced before. Everything she did was soft, caring. She went slow, not needing to rush into anything. And she was genuinely enjoying it.
He couldn't remember the last time he was so relaxed. Suddenly, everything was right in the world. He wasn't thinking about his job, about Haley, Jack or his team. He wasn't thinking.
It was a blessing.
His arms settled around her waist, holding her close. She smiled against his lips, before pulling away.
"Would you mind if I remove this?" She pulled on his tie, making blood rush to his face.
"No, not at all." She smiled at his airy tone as she pulled off his tie; he was flustered. She unbuttoned the first three buttons of his dress shirt, before kissing him sweetly. Her left hand traveled under his collar towards his shoulder. Her right landed in his hair, running her fingers through it.
Aaron groaned as she squeezed his shoulder, massaging his tired muscles. He could have sworn she healed a part of his soul right then and there. Her hands felt magical.
She leaned into him more, placing kisses along his jawline. Her hand was still carding through his hair. He felt himself melt under her touch.
"Darling, please."
She smiled against his skin before pulling off her shirt and unbuttoning his completely. Her hands found his abs as she kissed him eagerly. She went about removing her jacket and top, tossing them onto a chair.
He caught a glimpse of Andrea's black bra. His hand moved to her back, ready to unclasp it. She pulled his shirt off completely just as her bra fell to the floor.
Aaron was breathless, "You're beautiful."
Andrea stood up off his lap, stripping the rest of her clothes. He took the hint and removed his shoes and pants, which he folded neatly before putting it on the floor.
She looked back at him as he sat back down now in only his boxers. She let out a wolf whistle.
"You are quite a catch yourself, honey."
She fell back down into his lap, her one arm around his neck as she used the other to trace the lines between his abs. She kissed him again, letting his hands explore her body. He traced every one of her curves, caressing her sides, ass and thighs. His rough hands felt so nice on her soft skin.
She grinded her ass against him, earning a groan. She grinned, now pressing her hand against his dick. She started palming him through his boxers. His head fell back, arms still wrapped around her.
She went to town on his neck and shoulders. He gasped as she sucked hickeys onto his collarbones. He was hard as a rock underneath her, but he let her determine the pace.
Luckily after catching Aaron's gaze, she saw how desperate he was. She pulled off his boxers followed by her own underwear. After lining herself up she lowered herself on his dick. He hummed in appreciation.
"Fuck. You feel so good."
She let out a chuckle before grabbing his hair and pulling him into a kiss. Slowly she started to bounce up and down on his dick. She moaned into his mouth as he thrusted up into her.
Andrea grabbed his shoulders to stabilize herself. Their kiss broke and a string of saliva hung between them.
He thrust up into her repeatedly, hitting her spot just right. She grabbed onto his shoulders tighter, digging her nails in his skin. He could feel himself coming close. He put his hand on her hip, pulling her down onto him. The other hand pushed down on her abdomen, making her moan loudly as he thrusted up into her again.
That had broken her.
Her eyes rolled back as she came, clenching around him. He came as well, his head falling back in ecstasy. She collapsed against him, her arm immediately going around his neck. He wrapped his arms around the beautiful woman in his lap.
"Thank you. That was fucking hot." He felt better than he had in months, maybe even years.
"Anytime, honey. Anytime."
He kissed her again, silently showing his appreciation.
~
AN: This is something I posted long ago but moved to private, because I wasn't happy with how rushed it felt. I think the quality has improved since then, but unfortunately the ending still feels rushed. This happened because of my lack of motivation to continue, but I still didn't want to abandon this work.
I pulled into the parking lot of the big stadium, before striding towards the door. My manager told me that I should get to know the atmosphere before my first show tomorrow. I agreed with him.
When I walked through the door I was immediately feeling out of place. I saw a few people in the small space, it reminded me of a school hallway with jocks, cheerleaders, band kids, geeks and a random dude with a ladder. I adjusted the strap on my duffle bag before taking a few slow steps forward.
I jumped as an arm landed across my shoulders. Rhea Ripley stared down at me with a strange look. Damn, she's gorgeous. She had an air of authority around her, it scared me a little.
"You're jumpy. You're the new girl, right?"
Her Aussie accent was thicker in real life than in the interview I watched. I feel a little stupid knowing so much about her, while she doesn't even know my name, but that's fine.
"Yeah, Anne Winger, nice to meet you."
I wasn't as confident as I sounded but that's fine. She didn't need to know that. Then another smokeshow approached. She looked like fire personified, with red hair and an air of authority around her just like Rhea's. Becky Lynch. The Man. Damn.
She spoke to me in a Irish accent.
"Hey Anne, right? I look forward to our match tomorrow."
"Yeah, same."
The words rolled off my tongue automatically, as if I was talking to a friend. It was strange. And before I knew it she was off again towards one of the hairdressers.
"Ok I need to get going, match is almost starting. I'll see you later."
I nodded at Rhea and headed off to find someone who could point me in the right direction. I came across Charlotte Flair first but I deemed her unapproachable. I spotted a whip of a black braid. Bianca Belair, she was approachable. Scary but approachable. And hot.
"Excuse me, can you point me in the direction of the gym?"
"Oh yeah, of course. Wait, are you the new one, Anne Winger?"
I was slightly relieved to not be swatted away like a fly.
"Yup, that's me. I'm kind of lost. Can you help me?"
"Sure."
She grabbed me by the arm before giving me a tour of the backstage area, eventually leaving me in the gym. I thanked her and she walked away towards Sonya Deville. I decided that starting was the hard part, that I'd be fine if a could just get into my normal workout routine. I put my ear phones in my ears and hopped on a treadmill.
After my strength training I jumped as someone touched my shoulder, turning around I was met with Finn Balor. My little pansexual heart couldn't deal with it anymore. I quickly removed my ear phones.
"Hey, new girl, what kind of stretches were those?"
"They're for gymnasts. I was a contortionist for a circus a few years back and that was how I warm up."
"Damn, ok."
With that he disappeared. Not sure what happened in that conversation, but at least he wasn't disappointed. I exited the gym before walking on the beat of my music, heading towards my car.
I'm fighting the Man tomorrow, what could go wrong?
I was more excited than I thought I'd be. Honestly being tossed around and beaten up by Becky Lynch didn't sound like a bad thing.
~
"And tonight we introduce out newest star, ANNE WINGER!!"
Finally the moment came. I strutted towards the ring with a bloody smile. She was stood waiting for me. I jumped into the ring before smiling at the crowd once more. The ref started us off and she circled me.
She dove at me first and my back bent, letting her dive right over me, rolling onto the ground. The crowd cheered. She turned back towards me before running at me. I jumped up high, letting her go right under me towards the ropes. She bounced back towards me and I dodged her again. I started playing offense out of necessity, I couldn't run forever.
I attempted a suplex but she turned it around making me hit the mat. I readjusted my jaw before throwing some punches to her stomach and like that we danced. She landed more moves than I did, but I was durable. Eventually she had me in a prism trap. I couldn't see a way out.
I didn't feel anything. We stayed in that position. I didn't flail or scream. I just stood on my hands waiting for her to do something. Realizing this wasn't working, she trapped my arms instead, pulled them behind my head with her boot on my back. She pulled as much as she could, amazed when my arms crossed each other behind me. Her moves didn't work on me.
I took advantage of her shock, kicking her in the head, performing a roll over and pinning her shoulders to the floor. She struggled but she didn't kick out in time. The crowd erupted as the commentator announced the winner of the match.
~
I answered some fan questions before heading backstage. I found Becky and Rhea waited for me. Becky didn't look happy.
"What was that?? Are you cheating?"
I quickly shook my head.
"No, I know about the prism trap and whatever the other thing is called but for some reason they don't work on me. I don't know what happened. "
Rhea spoke up for the first time.
"You know, Becks, we could go get Shayna. She'll know more about this. She's in the gym."
"Fine."
Becky was still fuming but she seemed to realize the genius in Rhea's plan. Either way I probably get hurt, so a win for her I guess.
The three of us went up to the gym, where Shayna was brutalizing a punching bag. Becky called out to her.
"Shayna, you got a second?"
"Yeah, what's up?"
"We need you to test something. Anne here seems to be immune to every submission move I tried on her. I know she's flexible but I need someone to test exactly how flexible."
A wicked smirk appeared on Shayna's face.
"I'm game. C'mon into the ring."
I followed her into the sparring ring as Becky and Rhea watched us.
Shayna started with the classics. Some of them were uncomfortable but not enough to make me tap out. She tried everything from a figure four to the Cobra Clutch eventually ended on a Tongan Death Grip. Shayna growled in frustration before turning to Becky.
"What the fuck? Is this some kind of prank? There is no way."
Becky gave her a deadpan stare.
"Exactly what I said."
"Ok anyway, I'm gonna go, I promised Liv I'd go grab a coffee with her."
~
Every since my encounter with Shayna, she's been attacking me randomly, convinced I was cheating some how. The last time was in the hallway while Bianca introduced me to John Cena. Not the way I wanted our first meeting to go. Could have met John Cena without the Hammerlock but sure I guess.
I was going up against Rhea next and Alexa Bliss dragged me towards a makeup artist before to match. Apparently I looked good in Navy Blue.
Rhea spent her time tossing me around. I couldn't do much as she had both a height and strength advantage. But I was fast and flexible. I enjoyed the fight immensely. She's pretty when she's angry. I kicked her a few times, delivered a tornado and I tried a Cobra Clutch, but she powered herself out. Her destructive high risk moves made it easier for me. All I had to do was dodge, but eventually my moves turned sloppy and after 15 minutes I was exhausted. She beat me up a little more, taunting me by grabbing my face gently in her hand as I was about to pass out. She pinned me and I accepted my defeat, going limp underneath her.
I could picture Becky and Shayna celebrating Rhea's victory.
I was on my back in the ring, listening to the commentators and fans cheering as Rhea answer questions and posed for photos. Eventually I heard Rhea close to me.
"C'mon, we need to clear the ring for Hunter and Kurt. You need to get up, or I'm going to have to carry you out."
"Carry me, I don't think I can walk."
Rhea chuckled at me before lifting me up in her arms. The commentators noticed and made a few jokes about it, before Rhea took me backstage. She put me down on the floor, directly in front of Becky who was sat on the couch behind me.
"You two look terrible. But I can't blame you, that was intense. And it took ages."
Rhea shot her a look before plopping down next to her, turning on the TV in front of us to watch Kurt and Hunter. After a few minutes, I grew weak, resting my head against Becky's legs. She shifted her leg, before dropping her head to speak to me.
"Come sit up here, before you fall asleep like that."
I painfully stood up, before falling back down in the small space between Becky and Rhea. Rhea threw an arm over my shoulders and Becky let one of her hands rest on my thigh. After a while, my eyes started to fall shut, my head falling back.
I forced my eyes open as I heard someone enter the room. It was Shayna. Not wanting to be tossed around again, I quickly grabbed my stuff, thanked Rhea for the match and wished the three women a good night before exiting. Not noticing the glance Rhea shared with Becky, I made a beeline for my car.
~
An hour later I sat at my hotel room desk with some cheap takeaway pizza and a liter of Coke. It was an exhausting day and I deserved it. I lifted the last piece from the box, staring at the TV in my room. I was watching an old NXT match between Rhea and Becky.
Then a knock made me pause the match. I frowned, slowly creeping towards the door. I pulled it open a little bit before a tattooed hand pushed it the rest of the way. It was Rhea, but she wasn't alone.
Becky strutted into the room was a backpack in her hands as Rhea held the door for her. She immediately spotted the TV screen, still paused on their match.
"So you had the same idea as us."
"What do you mean? Why are you two here?" I raised an eyebrow in her direction as Rhea closed the door, locking it. She turned to face me while Becky searched for the TV remote.
"We can go," I frowned at that, "but that look tells me you don't want us to."
Becky chimed in as she muted the TV, rewinding to the start of the match. "To answer your question, we are here for the same reason you are watching this match. The problem we had though, is that we don't have access to any of your old matches. So we thought we'd drop by to answer some of our questions." She pulled out a bundle of rope from the backpack. "And, of course, to find out how flexible you really are." She grinned at me, pulling the rope tight between her fingers.
Rhea leapt into action. Pulling me closer to her, she smashed her lips into mine as her hand cupped my face. Her other hand pinched the soft parts on my hip, making me gasp. She used this opportunity to force her tongue into my mouth. Two arms wrapped around my waist. I felt my feet leave the ground and suddenly I was being carried towards the bed.
She broke the kiss, throwing me onto the bed. Becky flipped me over onto my stomach.
"Let's start with a reverse prayer. How does that sound?"
She forced my arms behind my back as Rhea held my legs still. My head pressing painfully into the pillow. I groaned as Becky immediately forced my arms into a near impossible position. Bringing them behind my back, she bent my elbow letting my hands face eachother just below my neck. She tied the rope around my bicep, securing it to my forearm. I squeaked as she repeated the process on my other arm, before forcing my palms together over my spine.
Rhea let go of my legs, giving me the opportunity to try and kick Becky off. I made a weak attempt, but was stopped when Becky moved to sit on top of my calfs. I struggled against the rope as I heard fabric rip.
I gasped as my bare back was exposed to air. Rhea tore the rest of my tank top clean off. Then lifted my head to whisper in my ear.
"Are you gonna be a good girl for us? Or are we gonna have a problem?"
"I'll be," I gulped as she cut a slit in the front of my sportsbra. "I'll be good."
Smirking, she flipped me over to rip off my bra. Dropping me on my back, pressure bloomed in my shoulder as my bound arms were crushed beneath my own weight. She let out a low whistle as Becky smirked.
"You look so pretty, tied up and exposed like this. Just for us."
I whined as Becky attached her mouth to my neck, leaving bite marks and bruises. Rhea plucked off my shorts before burying her head in my thighs. She sucked at my inner thighs making them quiver.
Rhea moved up, sucking at my clit through my underwear. My back arched. Becky pinched one of my nipples, taking the other between her teeth causing moans to tumble off my tongue. Rhea pulled my underwear out of the way, burying two fingers in my wet hole.
"Soaking wet, just for us."
I whimpered as she curled her fingers inside me, my legs shaking. Becky released my swollen nipples and stood up, sitting back down with my head between her knees.
"You don't get to cum before I do. Am I clear?"
I could barely nod as Rhea played with my clit. I leaned up, sticking my tongue into her hole. She gripped my hair painfully hard. Rubbing her pussy against my tongue, she rode my face. I flicked my tongue against her clit and she was pushed over the edge. I licked up every drop of her orgasm, feeling my own approaching.
Rhea fucked me with three fingers while her other hand held my hip impossibly tight. She put pressure on my clit with her thumb and my orgasm tore through me. I screamed out.
"Rhea, yes! Rhea- Becky- Oh God, please!"
Rhea removed her fingers. She rubbed soothing circles into my hip. Becky pulled her fingers through my hair while my eyes fell shut. She laughed.
"Oh Cupcake, we're not done."
She pulled a blindfold out of her backpack, along with a small bullet vibrator. She secured the blindfold around my head before climbing off my chest. Then I was picked up and put down on my stomach on the carpet. I moaned as the vibrator was pushed into my sensitive pussy, vibrating at its lowest setting. It was quickly covered by my underwear. Rhea was quick to set the rules.
"You're only job is to follow our instructions. If you're uncomfortable or in pain you will say so. If you decide not to follow our instructions, you will be punished. Do you understand?"
I nodded shakily.
"Use your words, love."
The use of the pet name made me blush. My voice was quiet and airy as I spoke.
"I understand."
Becky chuckled at my tone before planting a heeled boot on my back. She started undoing the ropes around my arms.
"Give me your hands and keep your arms straight."
I complied, sticking my arms out in her direction. She took my hands on crossed my arms behind my back. She pushed down on my arms, trying to see how flat they could be. Her boot still pinning me to the floor, I could barely raise my shoulders off the ground. I groaned as she pushed a little harder, trying to force my hands to the ground.
"Ow, ow, ok, that hurts."
"Alright," She let up, "that's fine. Relax."
I took a deep breath as she removed her boot, letting my arms go.
"Sit up.
I listened, moving to sit cross-legged on the carpet. I tried my best to ignore the warm buzzing in my hole.
"Straighten your legs into a split."
Finding it easy to follow her instructions, I straightened my legs. Then the vibrator was turned up to max. I groaned, my whole body feeling the need to curl up. I crumbled, having to use my elbow to support myself as my orgasm approached. I bit my lip in an attempt to stifle my moans.
My legs, still in a split, trembled as my second orgasm ripped through me.
"Hm- Becky- Rhea- please, so good!"
"You can relax."
I didn't even know who said it, but I listened. I curled up, my legs snapping back together. I lay there in a fetal position as the vibrator slowed down.
"Can you do a bridge for me?"
I slowly moved into position, holding myself up with shaky legs. A hand found my back. Lifting my back higher into the air, forced my arms and legs to adjust. I was shaky at best when the vibrator was powered back on at a low setting. My legs shook while the hand firmly pushed me up even higher. I gasped at the sudden pressure on my shoulders. Tears stinging my eyes.
"I- I can't- I'm sorry. I can't."
"That's fine. Relax for me."
Two big hands held my waist, lowering me gently back to the ground. Another caressed my face while the vibrator still buzzed away.
"You're doing so good for us."
My breathing was unsteady.
"Alright, last one. Roll onto your stomach and bend your knees."
I complied. A yelp escaped me as the vibrator shifted.
"Good, now I want you to grab your ankles and bend your back to bring your feet down next to your head."
"I don't- I don't understand."
"That's fine, just relax."
An arm under my thighs lifted me up while a pair of hands guided my feet over my shoulders, letting them land next to my head. A larger hand supported my back as it bent at an impossible angle.
"Hold your feet with your hands." I obeyed. "Good girl." That sent a chill up my spine while hands caressed my sides.
Suddenly the vibrator was turned up. I screamed as it buzzed against my sensitive, red clit. Pain turned into unbearable pleasure and my third orgasm hit me like a bus.
I screamed their names as my body ached from still holding the position. The vibrator was removed.
"You can relax."
I did. Letting go of my feet and immediately curling up into a fetal position, I felt vulnerable. I was lifted off the carpet and put on the bed. A soft hand rubbed soothing circles into my back.
"You did so good for us."
The blindfold was removed and I saw Rhea looking down at me. She pulled me into her lap and I collapsed in her arms. Burying my face in her neck, I melted into her warmth with Becky still rubbing my back. Rhea wrapped an arm around me while the other picked up the TV remote.
Their match played on the TV as I soaked in Rhea's warmth, listening to their discussion as they recall details from the match. Rhea pressed a kiss to my forehead as I drifted off.
ADHD pro tip: Use psychological warfare on yourself.
For example, in order to do long tasks, like folding laundry, I put on the Mario Hat:
The main feature of the Mario hat is that my headset does not fit over it, so when The Bees™ try to put me back in front of the screen, the headset issue forces me to remember why I put the Mario hat on, and back to the task I go
As a bonus, the Mario hat is also a very clear indicator to my housemates that business is getting done, and they have learned not to distract me when I'm wearing the "goofy-ass cosplay hat"
The biggest mystery in the WWE revolves around Roman Reigns, more specifically, the woman who saved him. It was easy to avoid the issue while he was injured, but the moment he stepped back into the ring, he was bombarded with questions. Questions he answered in the same way every time.
"She'll tell you all about it when she's ready."
Raina wasn't ready. She wasn't nearly as confident as Roman and it showed. She still showed up to his matches, in a little bit of a disguise. She'd put on sunglasses and a hoodie, and she easily passed as just another fan. Not even Roman knew she was there.
She wasn't ready and she doubted that she'd ever be. That was until Vickie Guerrero decided to stick her nose into Roman's business. It was eight weeks after the incident, when Roman returned for his first match back. That day Vickie decided that she would figure out who his savior is, if it's the last thing she does.
After his match against AJ Styles, she jumped in the ring with a microphone and a mission.
"Tell us, Roman, who is the woman who saved you from Brock Lesnar? The WWE Universe wants to know. Is she your girlfriend? A family member? A random fan?"
"Vickie, you know what I said at the press conference. My answer hasn't changed."
"Are you really willing to dissapoint your fans like that?"
That's when Roman saw a flash of black hair, rapidly moving through the crowd toward him. He could recognize his roommate anywhere. Especially when she was wearing his hoodie.
"Actually, here she comes."
She jumped over the barricade and into the ring. Roman made a point of greeting her with a hug.
"Hey, you want the mic?"
Raina nodded enthusiastically and Roman handed her the microphone. Vickie attempted to apply some pressure.
"Finally, this is what the fans have been waiting for."
"Vickie, what do you want from me? What are you hoping to gain out of this?"
"I want to know who you are."
"Well, in that case, I'm a 34-year-old with a caffeine addiction and a need for death. And that is all you need to know."
"I want a name."
"Why? Because you have nothing better to base this segment on?"
The crowd gave an "Ohhhhhhh."
"That is not your concern."
"But it is though. Because you spent an entire press conference and the last five minutes trying to get information from Roman that isn't his to give. Also, I think we should talk about the last time Roman appeared on this show when he was beaten up by a sore loser..."
Raina emphasized the last two words.
She was interrupted by Brock Lesnar's theme song and logo on the big screen. He came running towards the ring, stopping right in front of it. A staff member handed him a microphone.
Raina turned to him.
"You know what, get your ass in this ring, right now. There's something you still need to do."
"What?"
Brock spoke loudly, demandingly but Raina wasn't fazed, looking like she is done with the man in front of her.
"Apologize."
Brock looked at her for the first time, stepping closer to her. For the first time, Raina was appreciative of her height, 5'11, not allowing the giant to tower over her.
"Fine, I'm sorry-"
"No, no, no, it's not my ribs you broke. Apologize to Roman."
Brock sighed before yelling into his microphone, getting up into Raina's face.
"The Beast doesn't have to apologize to anyone!"
Raina took a moment, listening to the crowd booing, before continuing. Not backing down, she started softly.
"You know what takes balls? Admitting a mistake. And at this very moment, my 4-year-old nephew has more balls than you. You wanna prove you're 'The Beast', huh? Then grow a pair before you step to me. You are going to apologize to Roman and you're going to mean it. Understood?"
"You're treating me like a child."
"I am treating you like a child. Why? Because you're acting like one. Now c'mon, you know what to do..."
Brock sighed in defeat before turning to Roman.
"Roman, I'm sorry for freaking out and attacking you, alright?"
He held out a hand, which Roman shook.
"Alright."
Raina looked please with herself as she checked her watch.
"Well, now that that is over with, we should probably clear the ring. Finn Balor and Damian Priest are up next. And Vickie, you're welcome, for giving your audience an entertaining segment."
And with that, Roman and Raina slid out of the ring, Roman leading her backstage. The moment they were out of earshot of the fans, Roman started laughing. Raina couldn't help but smile in her confusion.
"What's so funny?"
"I didn't even know you were here and then you came running with sunglasses, that I didn't even know you had and one of my hoodies. Suddenly you're putting Vickie in her place and demolishing Brock's ego. Honestly, you surprise me every day."
He wrapped an arm around her waist before ruffling her hair with his other hand.
"You're just mad 'cause I wear it better. Also, since she's so caught up with who I am, I decided to have a little fun with it."
A man with long hair and a fashion sense came up to the pair.
"Hey, Roman! Is this the roommate you were telling me about? Raina, right?"
"Yeah. Raina, this is Seth, Seth Rollins. And over there is Becky Lynch, his wife."
"Nice to meet you."
Raina shook his outstretched hand.
"So you're the girl who kicked Brock."
"That would be me."
Becky heard that and decided to make her herself known. Raina was not prepared for the accent, personality or charm that the Man possessed.
"Hey there, I'm Becky. You know, I watched that clip of you kickin' Brock and I just wanted to tell you, you have a future in the women's division. You can come train with me if you'd like."
Becky finished with a wink, handing me a card in the process. Unfortunately, Seth decided to step in.
"Seriously? You've only been in this conversation for 5 seconds and you're already trying to steal his girl. I think it's time for you and me to go home."
Raina laughed as Roman's arm tightened around her. She decided to stir the pot.
"I'll text you later, Becky."
She heard Becky laughing as Seth dragged her away.
"I think it's time for us to go home as well, before you leave me for Big Time Becks."
The pair walked out the back door, heading toward Roman's car.
~
As soon as the door to their apartment swung shut, Roman had Raina wrapped up in a hug. An unrelenting one at that. She laughed as she squirmed.
"Let go, I need to go text Becky."
"Oh no, you don't. I think it's time you learn who you belong to."
Roman picked her up onto the kitchen counter top, securing himself in between her legs. His one arm held her around her waist while the other settled on her neck, using his thumb to caress her cheek.
"Is that so?"
Roman didn't answer, instead pressing a kiss to her lips. She kissed back eagerly, holding his face with her hand, the other falling on his shoulder. He moved even closer pressing himself into her even more as their kiss deepened. Her hand moved up to his neck in response.
After a few seconds, she pulled away. Her piercing green eyes gazed at him lovingly.
"Are you sure about this?"
"Yes, I'm sure."
"Well then; we probably shouldn't do it here."
Roman nodded before picking her up off the counter, letting her wrap her legs around his waist. She pressed her face into his neck as her arms held him around his neck. He carried her into his bedroom. He put her down on the edge of the bed before kneeling in front of her, standing on his knees between her legs, their faces only a few inches apart. She leaned down to kiss him, her hands caressing his face.
He had planned this in his head and Raina let him continue, relishing in her own uncertainty. She was relieved to know how much her body trusted him. It was rare for her to give up control so easily, but with Roman she felt safe. It was a welcome change.
He broke the kiss, dipping down to kiss her neck. Her hoodie, his hoodie, proved to be a problem early on and Roman was quick to get rid of it. He found one of his shirts underneath.
"You really robbed my closet, didn't you? It's fine you wear it better anyway, especially this V-neck."
He tugged on the shirt before pulling it off, leaving Raina in her black sports bra. He took advantage of this, kissing and sucking at the skin on her neck. He was leaving marks but neither of them seemed to care. She hummed in appreciation as her body visibly relaxed.
Roman caught sight of this, gently laying her down on the bed. His body followed. He looked into her eyes, watching as they threatened to fall shut. He smiled at the precious woman in front of him. He lied down on top of her, his head resting on her heart. He took hold of her hand, intertwining their fingers before gently pressing a kiss to the back.
"I don't think we should do this tonight. We should talk about this tomorrow morning and then we'll make a decision."
"Alright..."
It was clear to Roman that she wasn't completely listening. He chuckled at the sleep in her voice. He slowly stood up off of her, watching as her eyes fluttered shut. He scooped her up, putting her down further up the bed, so her head touched the pillow. As soon as the contact disappeared, she reached for him, missing the warmth of his hands. He chuckled as he pulled off his shirt.
"Don't worry, I'm right here."
He changed his pants before joining her in bed, pulling the blanket over both of them. Raina cuddled up into his chest, pressing her face into his chest. He wrapped one arm around her, the other finding her hands. She took his hand in both of hers before bringing it towards her lips. She kissed the back of his hand before burying her face again.
She kept a hold of his hand, fidgeting with his fingers and tracing the lines on his palm.
"I love you."
She said it first this time. Her voice was tired and muffled but he heard it.
"I love you too."
He said it with certainty as the arm around her tightened. She leaned into his warmth. A smile graced her face as she processed his words. This had never happened to her before.
Raina sat on a bench in Central Park. Like she usually did in her free time. It was enjoyable, sitting still and watching the people in New York going about their daily lives. Sometimes she'd see something interesting, other times she was merely there to think. To reflect on her life so far. She was only 32 after all.
It was 16:34 on a Tuesday. Her favorite day of the week. On Tuesdays, she had the entire day to herself. It became routine for her to sit in the park and do absolutely nothing.
She sat quietly, watching as people passed her. Until her eyes landed on someone specific. A large man sat on another bench, about 40 feet across from her. He sat with his head in his hands, his shoulders shaking slightly. Immediately upon seeing him, her heart broke for him.
She saw herself on that bench, feeling alone despite being surrounded by people. She saw herself all those years ago when her life was crumbling. She saw herself wishing for someone, anyone to talk to. She knew exactly how this man felt. And she knew exactly how to help him.
This was definitely the first time that she's walked into an ice cream shop, with urgency. After buying two vanilla ice cream cones, each with flake, she made her way over to the man on the bench. She sat down next to him silently, waiting for him to notice her. Careful not to overwhelm him.
After a few seconds, he slowly looked up at her. She held out an ice cream offering it to him wordlessly. He took it, taking a bite of the flake, before shooting her a questioning look.
"Why?"
"You looked like you needed it."
He just nodded before continuing to eat his ice cream. They sat there for the next few minutes, silently eating their ice cream. When he finished he looked at her.
"Thank you for this. You were right, I needed it."
"No problem."
"I got to run, but I owe you an ice cream, same time next week?"
"Sure."
And just like that, he was gone.
Raina smiled, knowing he left in a better mood than he arrived. She checked her watch, at 16:39. It only took five minutes out of her life to make a difference in his. And she knew, she'd do the same next week and, if it came to it, the week after that and the week after that.
~
Her week passed quickly. And here she found herself again on the same bench as last week, at 16:34. She sat waiting for him.
And sure enough, he arrived with two ice cream cones in hand. He smiled when he saw her. He sat down next to her, offering her an ice cream just as she had done last week. She took it, just like he did.
"Hey, you look like you're doing better."
"I am, primarily because of you."
"I'm glad I could help. You know, you helped me as well."
"Are you just saying that to make me feel better?"
"No, you gave something. You gave me something to look forward to and I appreciate that. Also, you never gave me your name. I've been calling you Benchman in my head."
He snorted.
"That sounds like some kind of lame superhero. I wonder what superpower Benchman would have."
"I don't know, but I do know that his costume would look goofy as hell."
He laughed at the image.
"Well, my name is Roman. Yours?"
"Raina. Nice to meet you."
"You too. So what do you do?"
"You're gonna laugh, but it's fine. I work in a circus as a trapeze artist. I have a law degree but I'm ignoring it to do what I love. It's real cheesy."
"Wow, not what I was expecting. Do you travel a lot, for work?"
"I did but, the circus is staying in New York for now, so I settled down a bit."
"That's good to hear."
"What do you do?"
"Wrestling, I work in the WWE. I was pretty surprised when you didn't recognize me."
"Alright, Hotshot." Raina turned to look at him with a playful smirk on her face, "Sorry, I don't watch wrestling."
"Oh, don't start now. I've been on a bit of a losing streak recently."
"Shame, is that why you were so down last week?"
"Yeah, although I felt a little more than just 'down'. I hate to admit it, but I'm struggling at the moment to deal with the competition. Especially when I know I can do better."
"I get that, it's more of a mental game, isn't it?"
"Yeah, I got the physical part down, but the rest has taken quite a toll on me."
"I get that, it's all about confidence. I'm a performer and in my experience, the ups are amazing and the downs can kill you. My advice is to fix your ego before you try to fix anything else. You'll only win if you believe you can."
"Yeah, I guess you're right. I mean if I don't believe, who else will?"
"Exactly. I don't watch wrestling and I know literally nothing about you or your skill level but, I believe in you, alright? Even if you don't."
Roman didn't respond as he slung his arm over Raina's shoulders, pulling her in for a side hug. A silent thanks.
"Raina, I don't why, but you are very easy to talk to."
"I know why."
"Uh-huh, care to share?"
"I'm a stranger. In other words, you can choose whether you care about my opinion and you can talk to me knowing that I'm not going to expose you to someone. It's not like I can."
"You're a stranger? Well, I'd like to change that. Same time next week?"
"Of course. I'll buy ice cream."
"Nice, see you then."
Roman gave her another side hug, before standing up and walking away.
Raina smiled just as she did last time, knowing that she, again, made a difference, just as she will next week and the week after. This week it took her six minutes. A little more than last week.
~
After the next couple of weeks, they became friends, speaking as if they'd known each other for decades. Their chats became longer and longer, the last one lasting for over two hours. Roman loved it and Raina refused to miss their appointments.
Raina still refused to watch WWE or anything wrestling-related. She claimed it would ruin the open air between them. Roman tried to pushed her to do it, but she shut him up with a quick remark.
"Are you trying to impress me, Mr. Popular?"
He hated that the answer was yes. But he stopped pushing, accepting that it would happen eventually and not wanting to expose himself.
The 18th week rolled around and the duo met up as usual, on the same bench in Central Park. After a few casual conversations, Roman opened up about a problem he had.
"I need a new apartment."
"What? Why?"
"The landlord decided to sell the building to a business, they are looking to turn it into office space, so I have to be out in three days."
"You know what's funny? My roommate just moved out, a few days ago, and I need a new one. You can come live with me if you want."
"You know, that would be fantastic. I'll stop by tomorrow if you give me an address."
"Of course, you can stop by any time, tomorrow's show was canceled."
And just like that the duo had slipped into the casual conversation again.
~
After Roman moved in, things changed. He learned very quickly how to fall into Raina's routine. They had figured out each other's love language and both of them used it to their advantage. She adored physical touch and he loved humor. Most mornings started with a hug and a laugh.
For the time being, their relationship status stayed at roommates, although they acted like an old married couple. Roman held back a lot, not wanting to ruin their friendship. He adored Raina and he wanted her as his own. He loved her and he was determined to make her feel the same. He started attending some of the shows she performed at and he loved every second of it.
After a particular show, Raina realized that the arena she performed at was hosting a WWE match after the show. Monday Night Raw. Her friend, Lee, ended up convincing her to go, especially after their director had gotten them front-row seats, as a reward after the show. Raina was more excited than she should have been.
~
After a brief explanation of the rules, Raina was ready. She enjoyed the first few matches, it was the women's division. She did a quick Google search on the women as they entered and she came to the conclusion that her favorite was Rhea Ripley. After they were finished, the men's division rocked up.
The first few matches were pretty exciting, but the fans only seemed to care about the last match of the night. It was the Grand Finale and she was ready. She was ready until she saw Roman enter the ring.
She gasped as she turned to Lee, "Lee, you know my new roommate, the one I was telling you about?"
"Yeah, Benchman."
"That's him. The guy with the long hair."
"Oh shit."
He was up against a giant, Brock Lesnar, and Raina was worried. The bell rang, signaling the start of the match. The two wrestlers ran at each other, starting the fight. After a few punches and shoves, Roman landed a German suplex on Brock, but Lesnar returned the favor almost immediately. The two traded a few hits before Brock had Roman in a corner.
Raina watched as Brock landed a big right hook. Roman kicked him in the stomach before climbing up onto the second turnbuckle and landing a beautiful missile dropkick. The match seemed to be going in Roman's favor, but Brock Lesnar had other things planned. After a few minutes, Brock was in control.
Roman was in trouble as he lay in the middle of the ring, on his back. His chest was raising and falling rapidly, as he tried to catch his breath. Lesnar did not allow that as he stepped on Roman's stomach. Roman swept his feet out from under him, making him fall to the ground. Roman quickly trapped him in a roll-up. The referee slammed his hand on the canvas.
One. Two. Three.
The crowd roared as Roman stole the win. But Brock wasn't taking it well as he attacked Roman. Roman refrained from fighting back as it would land him in trouble. Brock didn't seem to care about that.
Brock kicked Roman in the ribs, and a sickening crack echoed through the arena. Brock took Roman's arm, bending it in impossible positions. Damn near breaking it. Officials rushed out from backstage, but Raina knew they wouldn't be there in time.
Roman was trapped against the corner closest to Raina. Brock delivered a punch to his stomach.
Raina snapped.
She jumped over the barricade and hopped onto the apron. She launched herself from the top rope, aiming for Brock. She nailed him right in the head with a dropkick, both of her boots, hitting him in the side of the head. Brock landed hard, his head hitting the canvas with a thud.
The silence in the arena was deafening.
Brock was out cold. Raina wasted no time in getting Roman out of the ring. He was limping, clutching his ribs while blood dripped from his nose.
"A mystery woman from the crowd just saved Reigns!"
"With a fantastic dropkick as well, Brock Lesnar looks to be unconscious."
Raina could barely hear the commentators as she supported Roman, leading him through the crowd. The crowd understood, making an opening for them to pass.
By the time they made it to Raina's car, she was supporting most of Roman's weight. She lowered him into the front seat, before racing off toward the hospital.
~
Roman's injuries justified Raina's actions completely. He had two broken ribs, a broken nose, and a mild concussion. Raina was livid and ready to kill Brock Lesnar, who received a concussion from her dropkick. But she knew, now wasn't the time. At the moment, Roman needed her.
And at the moment the doctors needed someone to give instructions to. A female doctor pulled Raina aside.
"Hello, I am Dr. Manning and I have been assigned to the treatment of Mr. Reigns. Are you family?"
"No, I'm his roommate, but his family is not in the States. So if you need someone to discuss his health with, I'm your best bet."
"Alright, can I get your name?"
"Raina, Raina Lessing."
She scribbled it down on her clipboard.
"Well, Mr. Reigns has two broken ribs, a broken nose, a sprained wrist, and a mild concussion. You made the right call bringing him here. His broken ribs were very close to puncturing his lungs, so we fixed that in emergency surgery. His ribs and nose will have to heal on their own, there's not much we can do about that. I'll give you the necessary treatment plan shortly. His concussion should be resolved in 10 to 14 days, come back if he still has problems with that. I just need to know, what does his exercise routine look like?"
"He is very active, he goes to the gym every morning for both cardio and strength training. He works as a professional wrestler so he spends most of his time training."
"Ok. Well, that will need to stop for a few weeks. He needs rest and a lot of it. Don't allow him to put stress on his injuries. Especially not while his concussion is healing. If you would follow me to my office, I can give you that treatment plan."
Raina followed her, nodding at the information.
"Thank you, Dr. Manning. Will his Health Insurance cover everything?"
"Yes, that has been handled already."
"Thank you, when can I see him?"
She stopped to hand Raina some papers, the treatment plans, before answering her.
"You can go now if you'd like, he is in room 167, second floor. He was awake earlier, but his body needs rest. If he is asleep, please don't wake him."
"Thanks again, Dr. Manning."
She was off toward the elevator, with an urgency in her step. Once she made it to Room 167, she stood in the doorway. There she saw Roman, in a hospital bed with a bruised face. Something tugged at her heartstrings as she watched him.
Her phone vibrated against her leg, purring softly. Raina looked at the caller ID, it was Lee. She decided to answer.
"Hey, Lee, what's up?"
"What's up with you? The last time I saw you, you gave Brock Lesnar a concussion and disappeared with your roommate. What's going on?"
"Well, I took him to the hospital, that's where I am now. He was injured pretty bad, I'm talking like broken ribs and a broken nose. I'm sorry I didn't call again but the doctors kept me busy."
"You love him, don't you?"
"What?"
"Oh come on, even I can see it. You wouldn't jump into a wrestling ring and kick a guy twice your size in the head for anyone, would you? You love Benchman. You wouldn't be meeting him every week if you didn't. And you sure as shit wouldn't have asked him to be your roommate. You hate roommates."
"You know I hate it when you're right."
"I know, so I'm gonna hang up now so you can take care of your man."
The call ended, leaving Raina alone in the room with Roman. She sat down in the chair next to him, still watching him closely. She sat there for hours, staring at him. A nurse came in once or twice to check up on him, but she stayed, sitting there stoically.
She felt her heart breaking as the hours passed. She hated seeing him like this, so vulnerable. Seemingly helpless. He was one of the strongest people she knew and to see him like this, made her want to cry.
After a while Dr. Manning returned.
"Ms. Lessing, you've been in the hospital for 21 hours now. I am going to have to ask you to leave, for your own health."
"I can't just leave him here alone."
"He is not alone, two nurses have been assigned to his care and at the moment, we are more worried about you. You need to eat, you've been sitting there for way too long. Your body needs rest."
"I'm not leaving him here."
"Ms. Lessing, I understand your worry, but you are my priority at the moment. At least go buy yourself some food at the kiosk downstairs."
Raina sighed before standing up.
"Alright, but I'm coming right back."
Raina looked at Roman one last time before walking out the door.
Raina practically sprinted down the hall and stairs, not bothering to wait for the elevator. She bought a sandwich and a bottle of water. She ate as quickly as she could, not wanting to waste a second. She decided to drive back to the apartment to fetch Roman some clothes. And in 20 minutes she was back in Room 167, sitting in the same plastic chair.
After another few hours, Roman stirred. Raina perked up. He opened his eyes slowly, still getting used to the bright lights in the room. He smiled when he sat her next to the bed.
"Hey, Ray."
"Hi."
"What time is it?"
"It's one in the morning, oh and it's Wednesday."
"Oh shit, how long have you been sitting here?"
"Too long."
"Raina. How long?"
"Don't worry about it. I'll go get the doctor."
Raina went to find Dr. Manning, fleeing for Roman's questions. Dr. Manning was already on her way to Roman as Raina found her in the hallway.
"Dr. Manning, he is awake."
"Good, I need to have a private conversation with him and then he will be discharged. You can sit in the kiosk while you wait."
Raina nodded before heading towards the elevator.
Roman waited patiently for Dr. Manning. And she arrived soon after Raina's departure.
"Hello, Mr. Reigns. I'm glad you are awake. How are you feeling?"
"Alright. Can I ask you a question?"
"Of course."
"How long was Raina sitting here? She wouldn't tell me."
"About 25 hours. We tried to get her to go home, but she refused. She didn't want to leave you alone. I convinced her to go downstairs to buy herself food and get you some clothes but after 20 minutes, she was back. You are very lucky to have a friend like her."
"I know. Did she tell you what happened? Why I'm here?"
"No, she did mention your profession though. Wrestling is quite an interesting one."
"Well, Monday night I won a championship title, but my opponent was not happy. He attacked me after the match and I was just too tired to fight back. Raina, I didn't even know she was there, but she jumped into the ring and kicked the guy in the head to protect me. He was twice her size, but she didn't care, she knocked him out. Then she drove me here. I'm very lucky to have her."
"I am glad you are aware. I gave her your treatment plans for when you get home. And I can tell you, that you have been discharged. You are free to go. Ms. Lessing is waiting for you in the kiosk downstairs."
"Thank you, Dr. Manning."
A nurse pulled the IV out of his arm, applying a band-aid to the spot. Roman was a little shaky as he stood up. He grabbed the backpack that Raina left on the chair and looked inside. There was a pair of sweatpants, a T-shirt, and his favorite black hoodie.
"There is a bathroom down the hall to your right. The elevator is just a little further."
"Thank you."
~
Roman stepped out of the elevator to find Raina sitting at a table near the kiosk. He walked towards her, paying attention to her state.
She looked tired, with dark circles around her eyes. Her eyes threatened to fall shut any second. Her head was being supported by her arms, too heavy to sit upright. Her mouth was slightly open as she stared ahead of her. She looked like she was about to fall asleep in her chair.
Roman walked up behind her before snatching the car keys of the table.
"I'm driving, you look like you are about to fall asleep."
She stood up out of her chair and wrapped him up in a hug, careful not to press on his ribs.
"Thanks."
Raina picked up her phone and bag before making her way out of the building, Roman following close behind. She led him toward the car, helping him into the driver's seat, before ducking in next to him. Roman started the car.
"Sorry, your car is still at the arena."
"Don't apologize. At this moment you have literally nothing to apologize for."
"There is one thing."
"And what is that?"
"I'm sorry for not kicking him harder."
Roman laughed, his hand landed on Raina's thigh.
"Well, you knocked him out so I'd say it was hard enough. Thank you for that. It was pretty impressive."
Her hand sat on top of his as he drove them to their apartment. Raina nearly fell asleep. Roman parked in their garage, handing the keys to Raina afterwards.
Raina opened to door to their apartment and just as she was about to walk away from him, Roman wrapped her up in a hug. The tightest hug he could manage.
"Thank you."
He pressed a kiss to the side of her head. Raina hummed in acknowledgement before breaking away from the hug.
"C'mon, let's get you to bed."
"You're acting like I'm the one who stayed awake for more than 41 hours."
"You're the one with the broken ribs though."
Roman sighed before allowing Raina to lead him to his bedroom. She helped him take off his hoodie before letting him lie down. She moved to switch off the light, headed for her own room.
"Ray, will you do me a favor?"
"Yeah."
"Will you sleep here tonight, with me?"
Raina hesitated.
"Alright."
"You don't have to if you don't want to."
"I know, but I want to. I'm just going to go change."
Roman was left in the dark as she went to her room. He curled himself up in the covers as he waited for her. He didn't know why he asked her that, but he was glad he did. He was even more glad that she agreed. After the hospital trip, he knew she loved him. And he loved her.
She climbed into his bed, next to him. She was in a sports bra and some shorts. He pulled her cold body closer to him, her back against his chest. He gently took her hand, draping his arm over her in the process. He whispered to her as she drifted off, not expecting the faint response he got.
