Bella @shycloudkitty - Tumblr Blog

Meet my world, darling

CW: Light smut, talking about guns (nothing kinky), Age gap relationship.

Tags: Found family, pure fluff

Pairing: Re9 Leon × Reader

Canon Characters present: Sherry birkin, Grace Ashcroft, Emily, Chris and Claire Redfield (mention)

WC: 10K (Istg I will cry if this flops)

A/N: Okay, this is actually an insanee fic I went crazy with this. A big shoutout to @writingwisterias , @kuntprodukt. They helped me so so much in giving me confidence to write this fic and complete it.

Also a shoutout to @rednnedy , a few months ago I asked her about writer's block and she gave me a solid tip which helped me and that's how this fic came to life.

I hope you all actually like this fic and find it entertaining to read.

Mini tags: @fawnsflowerbed (idk who else to tag I'm shy)

Dividers by @/Droideplane

Summary: It's a free Sunday, what could possibly go wrong on a Sunday? It's not like you're expecting anyone to interrupt your morning bliss with your man or…are you?

Life has been blissful for Leon lately after getting cured with Elpis he was feeling more like himself than he had in years. His body felt lighter as if some weight that he was carrying for so long was finally gone. It felt strange to admit to himself but he started to feel more optimistic, he truly started to believe that he was going to be okay.

Plus, keeping in touch with his friends helped. He definitely made sure to hang out with Grace and Emily, occasionally joined by Sherry. After getting cured Sherry had started to take more field cases trying to make up for ‘lost time’ as she put it. Leon did try to convince her to not overexert herself but then she brought his record of overworking and well… he couldn't counter that argument.

Although he did make her promise him that if she needed help she would immediately call him. No questions asked.

He was content with the way he was living his life. He used to go out more, although it was more to target practice than meeting new people. He found that shooting fake people was more relaxing than talking to real ones.

As luck would have it, he did meet someone new there. A sweet girl who was probably half his age & a bit clueless on how to use a gun. You looked so out of place in that room. A pretty girl wearing pretty clothes, face scrunched up in concentration as you tried to hit a target but couldn't.

Well, he just had to talk to you.

It was a usual Tuesday for him. Just being alone with a target practice with his gun. It was almost therapeutic for him, giving him time to really think about stuff he didn't want to talk about.

He knew that this activity is not something normal people call ‘relaxing’ but he isn't normal. Hasn't been in a long time.

This is his normal.

After shooting some rounds, he stopped his stop watch. Took off his earmuffs, looking at the target with a satisfied smile and puts his gun down.

He was good, that was for sure. Able to beat his own record in time.

“Wow…that was really good.” A soft voice comes from behind.

Leon frowned at that briefly, he didn't notice anyone coming in. Guess, he was too into it to notice someone else was here.

He turns and notices a girl wearing earmuffs & safety glasses, grinning ear to ear and eyes shining in awe. She offers a small wave and points to his target. “That was amazing! You killed it. I mean…I know that's the point…but in a good way!”

A chuckle leaves his lips from your explanation. He looks back at his target then back at her. Pride fills him as he smiles back. “Thanks. I didn't know I had an audience.”

She pulls off her earmuffs and smiles back. “Oh, it's only been a minute. You must be doing this for a while, I started a few weeks ago.” Showing him the gun she had in her hand.

It was a 9mm, not bad for a beginner like her.

He nods. “We all start somewhere.”

“Yeah…but that must have taken some practice. I mean…you were like fast in shooting that thing.”

He raises an eyebrow and replies. “You were watching for a while, huh?”

You shrug. “Hard not to, when someone’s that good.”

He feels his chest warm up at the simple words, it did feel good to hear from time to time that he was good at what he did.

Especially hearing it from a pretty girl like you was doing wonders for his self esteem right now.

You ask. “Do you practice here a lot? Like this?”

“Yeah, just come here to clear my head, most times.”

Your eyes flit back to his target. “That's…one way to clear your head.”

He watches you for a few moments and then offers his hand. “I'm Leon.”

You look at his hand and extend your own and smile. “Nice meeting you Leon. On a scale of one to ten, how likely is it that you're a secret hitman?”

He knew you were joking but, Oh… if you only knew about what he actually did for a living.

Leon smirks at your question. “Why? Are you looking to hire one?”

Your eyes twinkle with mirth and raise an eyebrow. “Maybe? Depends if you can do the job.”

“Then ‘maybe’…you should have my number when you need my ‘services’.” And winks at you.

He watches as the tip of your ears gets red, your grin inevitably getting bigger as you giggle at his words.

Damn, he still had it in him. Thank god.

“Wow, already offering me your number and you don't even know my name yet.”

He chuckles softly, shaking his head lightly. “Mmm, true. But I did tell you my name. So…” Looking at you expectantly.

You smirk at him and cross your arms. “How about you teach me a few things about a gun and then I will tell you my name.”

“That's quite a bargain.” He crosses his arms like you and smirks back.

“Yes it is, but it will be worth your while.” And wink back. You add. “Plus, I already know some things. So, I just need some pointers.”

His eyes roam over you for a few seconds, trying to get a read on you. It was obvious you already felt comfortable with him, talking and flirting.

And he was also enjoying this flirty banter you both were having. It flowed so easily, it was hard not to enjoy it.

He wanted to keep it going.

He lightly claps his hand. “Well, a few pointers never hurt anyone. So, come on, you could use some from the secret hitman.”

You laugh softly and shake your head in response as you take your place in one of the booths with him besides you. “Do we get secret nicknames too?” you tease him back.

He laughs as he looks at you. “You want nicknames, huh? You won't tell me your real name but you want a nickname.”

You roll your eyes and ignore him. “Okay, so my nickname is gonna be peach. And yours will be…?”

He tries his best to look unamused. “Sorry miss, but ‘Peach’ doesn't exactly scream intimidating.”

You nudge him lightly. “Oh come on, indulge me.”

Now it was his turn to roll his eyes and look unamused. “I'm good with Leon, thanks.”

You stare at him with a disappointed look.

He sighs and decides it was better to indulge in whatever this was. “You can call me… Bond.”

You laugh. “Bond? That's so predictable. But fine… whatever. Teach me Agent Bond.” And playfully wink at him.

He's sure his heart stops when he notices the way you were looking at him, like you actually liked him. That was a bad thing, right?

He clears his throat and shakes his head lightly. “Okay, ‘Peach’ Let's start. Show me how you hold a gun.”

You get in the position, with your arms raised to your eye level, pointing the gun at the target.

Soon you could feel him coming up behind you, his gloved hands sliding over your skin to help you adjust your grip on the gun.

He slowly says “Here…you're holding it too tight. Lose some of it or you're gonna hurt yourself.” His slow breaths fan over your neck as he helps you line up your shot too.

He checks the safety of your gun, satisfied that it was on.

You clear your throat and ask. “Can I shoot now?” trying to ignore the fluttering in your stomach.

“Wait…” He takes the earmuffs that were around your neck, and then gently helps you put them on your ears, tucking your stray hair behind your ears. And then he steps back.

“Go on.”

You take a deep breath as you look at your lined up shot and then squeeze your trigger.

And it all happens so quickly, the bullet leaves your gun and to the target. You slowly put your gun down to look.

It wasn't a bullseye but it was close enough.

Leon claps gently with a smile. “Well that wasn't bad for a beginner.”

You look back at him with a shy expression. “Really? It wasn't bad?”

Leon shakes his head. “No, no… it was good, trust me. But we can try again if you like.”

You nod and he smiles at you. “Okay, sure. Let's go again.”

Guess, this lesson was going to be useful after all.

It felt weird a bit at times, since he wasn't in the habit of socializing with civilians and that too with a girl who was half his age.

But as time went on with each lesson, it got better. He started to look forward to teaching you. Maybe that's because you both were spending time at a place where he felt more in his element.

And with each lesson the flirting between you two became more relentless. Both of you were dancing around each other, trying to make the other person more flustered than before.

Never in his life he would have thought a gun range was a romantic place. But as stated earlier nothing in his life was normal.

Also you laughed at his jokes and rolled your eyes at him with an exasperated groan. That's how he knew this was worth keeping.

It was only a matter of time when those lessons turned into actual dates with you.

And he has to admit to himself, life has never been better for him. The dates went better than he expected, he was worried that the age gap between you two would be an awkward factor.

Sure, you both had chemistry but being on actual dates was a different thing. Two people sitting next to each other, talking about each other… no guns involved. He was out of his element here.

And let's be honest, he's just too old for you. You should not go on dates with someone as mentally scarred as him. He can't do normal.

But if anything, it has only made things more…endearing, at least for him. Like when you express your opinions on things you like, he listens each time.

It's just so fascinating to watch someone you care about talk about the things they love. And you happen to have a lot of interests, guess young people tend to do that.

It also reminds him of himself when he was younger. The rookie cop. He tries not to remember him too much, it's like opening old wounds for him. But with you, that rookie isn't shy to open up. And maybe that's why he doesn't want to let you go despite the age gap.

But he still hadn't exactly told you about what he did for a living. How could he? It wasn't that easy to explain what he did. So he gave you a vague answer about working in the government as a contractor for security or something.

Your smile, your happiness was something worth protecting and worth keeping in his life. Which meant not telling you the things he goes through at his work.

Everything feels…right.

And guess that's why those dates soon turned more intimate and into staying the night at his place.

Currently it was one of the mornings after you stayed the night. Sunlight filtering through the windows of his bedroom and shining on both of you.

Leon was laying on bed with you on top of him, your face pressed against his chest. You could feel his heart pumping, it was calm. His hands were on the small of your back, tracing absent minded circles. One of your hands was roaming over his arms, tracing his scars.

He never experienced this kind of serenity before. And for the first time he wasn't haunted by the ghosts of his past. That was new.

But before he could ponder why that was happening. Your soft voice pulls him back. “Do you have plans today?”

Leon looks down at you, your face now tilted up just enough to meet his eyes. He replies. “It's Sunday.”

“Yeah, that's why I asked if you have plans.”

Leon rolls his eyes and wraps his arms around you tighter. “What sort of loser has plans on Sunday of all things?”

You chuckle and slowly shift up to meet his face. “The kind who actually goes out.”

He snorts and looks up at you. “I go out with you, that should count.” Now both of you are face to face. Your hands are tracing his face now.

You grin. “Aww, aren't you a romantic. Just hanging out with me only.” Gently tapping her finger on the tip of his lips.

“Oh it's very romantic, peach.” and gives a wink.

Your heart skips a beat at his lazy wink. He looks angelic in this light, his eyes barely open and his hair framing the pillow, the way he was smiling at you highlighted the wrinkles on his face making you more giddy inside cause you were the one who sees him like this. Plus, he still uses that nickname for you. He was just so sweet.

“I don't have any plans either, so… I was thinking maybe we should spend the day together.”

He shrugs and says. “Sure, but…” He slowly rolls you onto your back, your head falls on the soft pillows, he smirks down at you. “What are we supposed to do for the whole day?”

You pretend to think for a second and reply. “Gun lessons maybe?”

He stares at you unamused and remarks dryly. “Oh yeah, gun lessons, that's what I was thinking.”

“I was talking about a different gun.” Eyes glinting with mischief as you wink at him.

He looks confused for a few seconds then starts laughing and groans. “God…and you call me corny.”

You laugh and hit his arm. “Oh come on, it was a good one.”

“I'll give you a solid 5 on that.”

You gasp and say. “Five?! How could you do that to me? I made you laugh so I should get a 10.”

He shrugs. “The only reason I even laughed is because I was a bit surprised. Not cause it was funny.”

You roll your eyes at him. “This is your fault.”

He raises an eyebrow. “Making you corny is my fault?”

You nod. “Yeah, I wasn't corny before I met you.

He chuckles. “Well, you always laughed when we first started our gun lessons.” He nuzzles your neck and places a kiss there. “So, hate to break it to you sweetheart, but you were always corny.”

“It's still your fault.”

He shakes his head fondly and says. “Mmm, Maybe I should apologize for that?” He leans in and gently kisses you.

You giggle and mumble against his lips. “That's…one way…to say sorry.” and wraps your arms around his neck.

He bites your lower lip lightly and whispers back. “I know more ways to say sorry too.” And slides his hand behind your neck to adjust and kiss you deeply.

Your body melts back in his arms as you kiss him back. Your hands slowly drifting down his bare back, fingers tracing over the marks you left behind last night.

The kiss grows more intense between you two. He pulls back and leans in to kiss down your throat and bite down on your collarbone. He then slowly licks that area and sucks on it, hoping that this one would stay.

Your gasps fill the quiet room, your eyes briefly closing in response. “God….” And then you feel it warm, calloused hands tracing over your thighs under the sheets, raising goosebumps where they went. Your grip tightens over him and slowly spread your legs for him.

He grins to himself with his face still buried in your neck when he sees you spreading your legs for him. He lifts his head to bite on your earlobe and playfully whispers. “Be patient, peach.”

You lightly groan from frustration when he doesn't immediately give you what you want. You meet his eyes and say. “Just shut up and use your hands.”

He smirks in response and starts tracing his fingers back up your thigh. “Now you're just rude to me.”

You groan once more when you feel his fingers reach up your upper thighs and then he pulls away yet again. “Didn't take you for a torturer.”

He chuckles and kisses your cheek in a lighthearted apology. “I'm just a man having some fun…besides, you had your fun last night too didn't you?”

A whine leaves your lips. “Leon… please, I need this.” Your hips nudge forward, trying to make his fingers touch where you desperately want him to.

God, you were so beautiful when you begged and whined for him. Even he wasn't immune to it. So, he pulls you in a deep kiss again, shutting up your pleading whines. His fingers starting their journey on your thigh yet again, the usual rough touch of his fingers on your soft skin only raises the heat between you two. His fingers brush your apex and then—

*Ding dong*

His doorbell rang.

You groan out loud from frustration and grumble. “What the…” But Leon doesn't let you continue as he captures your lips yet again and mumbles. “Ignore…” just as you both were about to continue..

*Ding dong*

his doorbell rings again and this time it doesn't stop.

You both pull away, frustrated with the cockblocking that was happening right now.

“What the hell?” Leon remarks with a loud groan as he pulls away.

You sigh heavily. “Who do you think that is?”

“Someone who doesn't know what a Sunday is, apparently.” He grumbles.

The doorbell ringing stops briefly but starts again.

Leon rolls his eyes with a deep sigh. “Wait here… I'll see it.” Reluctantly pulling off of you and getting out of bed.

You pout. “Wait no… it was just getting good.”

Leon sighs and rests his forehead against yours. “I know, I know… but I don't think the ringing is gonna stop anytime soon.”

“Fine… come back soon then.”

He kisses your forehead and says. “Of course…”

He finds his boxers from the floor and a shirt from his closet as he grumbles under his breath. “I swear to god if it's those neighbor kids again...” He steps out of the bedroom with a sigh and walks to the front door.

He opens the door with a grumble. “Who…” His words vanish into thin air, eyes widening in shock as he finally sees who it was on his front porch.

Oh shit.

Sherry puts her phone down and sighs. “What were you doing? I was calling you earlier and you weren't picking up.”

“You look like you just woke up.” Grace adds while holding Emily at her hip. Emily excitedly waves her hand in greeting and says. “Hi Leon!”

“H…hi..” Leon raises a weak hand and waves back, still in shock to see all of them here.

He stares at them for a few seconds and then says. “Uhh…why are you guys here?” And steps further in front of the door to block the view inside his place.

All three of them look back at him, confused about what he was saying.

Emily pouts and says. “You said you wanted to hang out with me and play on swings!”

“And have brunch.” Grace adds.

Leon closes his eyes briefly as it dawns on him. He indeed had plans on a Sunday. “God dammit…” He grumbles under his breath.

Sherry says. “We were waiting for you at brunch, but you didn't show up. And then we thought we should come check up on you.”

Leon rubs his hand over his face, frustrated with the situation he found himself to be in. He sighs heavily. “Yeah, right…The brunch. I…forgot.”

Emily pipes up. “We ate without you.”

His expression softens and smiles at Emily. “That's okay, Em. Did you like the food?”

Emily smiles and nods eagerly.

“Then, it's all good.” And lightheartedly ruffles her hair making Emily giggle.

Grace and Sherry look at each other even more confused and then back at him. Sherry reminds him. “You never forget about these things.”

Shit, shit, shit how was he supposed to get out of this? Of course he never forgets about plans because he loves catching up with them. But right now he can't exactly say why he forgot all about it.

His head scrambles for an excuse. “I know… I just…had a mission last minute.”

Grace's expression softens with sympathy “Oh really? Last minute sounds rough.”

Leon nods. “Yeah, I was really tired after that and slept in, that's why I forgot.” His eyes flick back over to Sherry.

Sherry watches him carefully, looking for any signs that he might be hiding something. “I had…no idea you were on a mission recently.”

He makes sure, his expression betrays nothing as answers. “Yeah, like I said, last minute.”

“What was it about? I could have helped.”

“Oh come on, I can't tell you in front of a kid.” His eyes flicking over to sweet Emily in Grace's arms.

Her eyes narrow briefly at his answer. She could tell there was something he wasn't telling. She keeps looking in his eyes, trying to decipher what was off about him.

Leon knew if anyone was going to catch him in a lie, it was her. So, best believe he had his best poker face on right now and meet her stare with his own.

Grace sees the tension between them and then pipes in. “Well, I'm glad you're safe.”

Sherry was still suspicious but she didn't push it. Instead she smirks and crosses her arms. “Hmm, yeah… I'm glad too. So, can we come in?”

Well, shit. He didn't think that far.

His eyes widen briefly and then he looks back to the last night's date mess he had in his living room, clothes thrown on the floor, couch and the coffee table.

He looks back with a strained smile and replies. “Sure…could you give me a sec?” And shuts the door.

(The girls pov)

When the door shuts on them, Sherry turns to Grace and scoffs “Can you believe him?”

Grace shrugs and adjusts Emily in her arms. “He does look tired.”

Sherry rolls her eyes. “I don't think he went on a mission. Something's up. He's hiding something.” And glares daggers at the door.

Grace sighs. “I feel like you're just mad that he didn't make it to the brunch.”

Sherry shrugs. “No…why would I…it's just one brunch.”

Grace raises an eyebrow. “Right…”

Sherry sighs and says. “Okay, fine. I'm a little pissed but come on, he's lying. I can feel it in my gut.”

Emily looks at both of them confused, too much for a little child to comprehend. “Auntie Sherry, are you mad at Uncle Leon?”

Sherry's expression softens and talks to her. “Oh… of course not. It's just a bit complicated.”

Emily continues. “How?”

Sherry sighs, how was she supposed to explain to a little child her gut instincts about Leon. She shifts closer to Emily. “I'm just sad that he missed our brunch."

Emily smiles and shrugs. “That's okay. He was just too lazy to wake up.”

Sherry and Grace chuckle at her words. Grace adds. “Yes… you're right. He was lazy.”

Grace then whispers to Sherry. “Just…take it easy on him. We just got here.”.

Sherry sighs but nods in response. “Fine… I won't.” And goes back to glaring daggers at the door.

Meanwhile Leon was rushing to pick his clothes up and quickly threw them behind the back of the couch that was against the wall.

He looks around just to see if anything was out of place, even if it was, it was still doable. He could just say he didn't get time to set his place right after returning from the mission.

He takes a deep breath and walks back to the door and opens it, letting them in. And awkwardly chuckles. “Make yourself at home.”

All three of them walk in and settle on the couch and relax except Sherry who simply stays on alert, looking around the living room to find something amiss. She quickly whispers to Grace. “Look at that plant by the window.”

She whispers back. “What about it?”

“It's alive and growing. Isn't that crazy?”

“Yes, plants do that Sherry.”

“Not his plants, he killed every plant I ever gave him. One time, I gave him a cactus and he somehow managed to kill that too.”

Grace rolls her eyes and whispers back. “Maybe he started paying attention and tried to change. You could give him the benefit of the doubt, you know.”

Sherry shakes her head. “He's hiding something.”

Leon sits across from them and stays quiet. His mind was a battlefield currently. In his bedroom, you were resting and waiting for him while in the living room, he had guests. He was still trying to figure out what he could possibly do next to not set off the social landmine he found himself in.

He stood back up abruptly and rubbed his hands together. “I'll get you guys something to drink. How about orange juice?”

Before they could say anything, Emily raises her tiny hand and asks “Do you have candy?”

Grace nudges Emily and says. “I thought we had a rule about eating too much candy.”

Emily pouts in response. “Yeah but we're at Uncle Leon's place.” She looks back at Leon with her best puppy eyed face. “Puh-leaseee?”

Leon chuckles and sighs. “I think I have some…but I have to find it.” He did keep some candy lying around because he knew Emily loved it. Especially the sour ones.

Emily grins. “yes!”

Grace rolls her eyes at the exchange but smiles. Leon never had it in him to say ‘no' to Emily. After everything she had gone through, Leon didn't see a point. The little girl deserved the whole world.

She sighs and stands back up. “Anyways, I'm just gonna use the restroom—”

“No you can't!” Leon interrupts suddenly. His eyes wide.

The girls look at him confused at his reaction. Sherry asks. “Why can't she?”

Leon tries to come up with an excuse that makes sense. But he can't let Grace go down the hall because his bedroom is just there at the turn with you simply resting and clueless about the chaos brewing and he just can't take that risk.

Leon opens his mouth and scratches the back of his neck. “That's…because umm… the pipe is busted there.” And crosses his arms.

They look even more confused. “The pipes?”

Leon nods and says. “Uhh yeah, they're so busted. I was gonna call to fix that today…”

Sherry narrows her eyes at Leon and crosses her arms. “Oh? You couldn't fix it?”

Leon looks at her and says. “No I couldn't… I need a professional for that.”

Sherry scoffs. “Please you can fix damn near everything at this point.”

“Well, for this one I need a professional.”

Sherry hums in response and stands up. “I could take a look if you want.” Without waiting for an answer she starts walking towards the restroom.

Leon stops her in her tracks. “No, it's not necessary.”

“I can help.”

“No, you can't.”

“Oh, you don't think women can fix pipes?”

Leon groans . “I didn't say that. I said you—”

Sherry narrows her eyes in response. “What are you hiding?”

“Nothing, just trying to save you both from a shitty toilet.”

Sherry shakes her head. “You're lying.”

“No I'm not.”

“Yes, you are.”

“No, I'm—”

Then a sultry voice calls out to Leon.

“Baby, is something wrong? Why aren't you coming back to bed?”

You were lying in bed waiting for Leon when he went to the door. It's been five minutes. What was taking him so long?

Was it a mailman? Or just some nosy neighbor of his who was complaining again about the noises last night?

But then you hear it faintly.

Leon talking to…some woman? It sounded like a sweet voice. But why was there a woman?

It made you sit up in bed and listen carefully to the conversation.

“No, it's not necessary.”

“I can help.”

“No, you can't.”

“Oh, you don't think women can fix pipes?”

“I didn't say that. I said you—”

You decide to call him out. “Baby, is something wrong? Why aren't you coming back to bed?”

The voices go silent immediately.

Pin drop silence.

What the hell was going on?

Might as well figure out what was taking him so long.

You get up from bed, dropping the sheets that were covering your bare body and walking towards Leon's closet. You quickly find one of his shirts and shorts and put it on. The shorts were fit but the shirt was so oversized.

You playfully call out again. “Leon? I thought we were gonna continue what we were playing...”

No response.

You roll your eyes and call out again. “It better not be Mr. Hector again talking about ‘noise complaints’.”

Still no response.

You frown. What could possibly be holding him up? You start walking down the hall, your soft steps making it easier for you to sneak up on whatever was going on.

As you got closer to the living room you could hear the hushed whispers.

“Baby?! What baby?! You're someone’s baby??”

“Can you let me expl—”

“Oh god, I think my ears are still bleeding from the ‘noise complaints’ part.”

“God should have made me deaf right now.”

“Okay, the noises aren't what you think.”

“Ewww, Leon, we don't want to know!”

“I can't believe I'm hearing someone calling you a ‘baby’.”

“I can't believe you have a girl in your bedroom right now! how am I supposed to explain that to Emily?!”

You finally reach the living room. “Leon what's going—”

You freeze in your steps and eyes widen in response. Two women who were standing in front of Leon staring back at you with the same reaction. Leon immediately turns to face you, who is completely flustered by what's going on.

“What the F—” You bite your tongue mid swear when you notice a little girl politely sitting on Leon's couch. Who also upon seeing you gets up from the couch to look at you better.

Your face and ears flushing red immediately at the embarrassment. You immediately cross your arms in front of you and mutter out. “Oh my god!?” And look back at Leon for response.

And the Dam of secrets finally breaks.

“Leon, what the hell is going on?”

“Oh my god, is she your girlfriend?”

“She's so much younger than you.”

“Leon! I didn't know you had kids?!”

“What? We're not his kids!”

“Leon, who are they?”

“Is that Uncle Leon's friend?”

The poor guy pinches the bridge of his nose and mutters under his breath. “I should have killed myself when I had the chance.”

Seriously, anything was better than getting bombarded with questions from all directions.

He yells. “Okay, that's enough!”

The silence slowly fell over, but the demand for answers was still there.

He takes a deep breath, preparing himself for the interrogation. “Okay… just let me explain first.”

He immediately walks over to your side and wraps an arm around your shoulders and pulls you close. He looks back at the girls and says. “Her name is (Y/N), we met almost two months ago… and recently started dating… and it's been going quite well.”

Despite the awkward moment, your heart did warm up at the way he introduced you. Although you could hear the slight tremble in his voice as if he was a bit afraid of how this moment came to light or if they'd approve of this or not.

Leon then looks down at you and points at each of the girls. “That's Grace, Sherry…and Emily.”

All three of them wave awkwardly & you wave back in response. It was like meeting your distant cousins for the first time and being forced to hangout at a family function by your parents.

Leon continues. “They're not my kids. They're…” Now how was he supposed to explain what they are to him without overexplaining and revealing his true past. “Umm… they're some of my closest friends.” You nod slowly in response. Not knowing what else to say.

He clears his throat and crosses his arms. “So…anything else?”

The silence that follows wraps around them like a thick blanket, suffocating the air.

You had your arms crossed in front of you, nail digging in your arms, one hand constantly drifting to fix your ‘bedhead’ from earlier.

Grace was constantly rubbing her sweaty palms on her denim. Sherry had her arms crossed in front of her and was watching both you and Leon with a critical eye trying to figure out if this was actually true. While Leon was standing by your side, looking at them right ahead, trying to show that he was confident when he really wasn't. His foot was impatiently tapping on the floor, arms crossed and shoulders tense as if he was awaiting their judgement.

And then there was Emily, she was confused but also a little nervous, eyes bouncing back and forth to her aunts and her uncle (& the strange lady) trying to comprehend why no one was talking.

While the silence continues, one tiny hand raises up in the air and quietly says. “I'm Emily.” Her other hand gripping her frock tightly.

All eyes flick over to the little kid, who was trying to make an effort where adults failed to express.

Your expression soften at the little girl and show her a small smile of yours. You wave back at her. “Hi Emily. You're wearing a lovely frock.” Her frock was red in color with white borders at the hem and around the neck with small cherries embroidered over it. A sweet design for a sweet girl like her.

Everyone's hearts melt a bit when they see the little girl smile bashfully and shyly replies. “Thank you…mom bought it for me.”

Grace smiles at the answer and looks back at you. “Uh… I'm her mom.” Shifting on her feet, still a bit nervous about this whole thing.

Your eyes flick back to Sherry, she rubs the back of her neck and says. “Umm, I'm her aunt.”

You nod slowly and ask Leon. “And you're Emily’s…?”

“Her uncle.”

You look back at the girls and Leon a bit confused, they resembled a bit too much for them to be just ‘closest friends’. “Right…”

Emily interrupts you. “Miss?”

You look back at the sweet girl as she asks you. “Why is your neck so red? It's everywhere…”

The room gets awkward again as everyone realizes what she was referring to. And everyone's eyes involuntarily zero in on the fresh hickies blooming on your collarbone and neck, after all you both were interrupted from your games.

Both Sherry and Grace quickly avert their gaze, they'd rather not know of how freaky he is in bed.

Your face flushes bright red from embarrassment and immediately cover the hickies with the help of your hair, but it doesn't do much.

Grace immediately pulls Emily behind her like a parent ready to apologize. She looks back at Emily. “Emily, you can't ask that!”

She looks up at Grace confused. “Why?”

You still try to come up with a reply for Emily’s question. “Oh T-that was just…umm…” You immediately elbow Leon in the stomach and glare back at him as you angrily whisper to him. “Help me, you idiot!”

Leon winces slightly and rubs that area as he comes up with. “It was a… mosquito bite!”

Everyone looks back at Leon, eyes narrowed and thoroughly unimpressed at his answer.

You whisper back. “That's the best you can come up with?”

Leon whispers back, equally annoyed. “Sorry, I don't make it a habit of explaining to kids about what hickies are.”

“You could've said allergies.”

“From what? Sleeping?”

Sherry smirks and says. “Mosquito bites huh? Those are some really BIG ones.”

Leon looks at Sherry, his eyes narrowed as Sherry continues. “Get her mosquito repellent. You know, keep her safe…”

Leon scoffs and says. “You—”

Grace immediately covers Emily’s ear and looks at both of them. ”Can we not do this in front of a literal child?”

Sherry playfully shrugs. “I'm just giving him suggestions.”

You clear your throat and say. “Um…So, I'm just going to the kitchen… and get you all something to eat… sounds good?” Without waiting for an answer you make a run for it.

Leon rubs the back of his neck and sighs. That wasn't a good sign. He looks back at Sherry and Grace. “I'll be back.” And follows you to the kitchen.

You take a slow deep breath when you enter the kitchen, away from whatever chaos was that.

You shake your head and just stand there thinking how Leon could hide this from you. He was clearly close to them, almost like a family. Why did he never mention them to you?

You were lost in your own thoughts, you didn't notice someone getting close to you and hugging from behind with a gentle but firm grip. “Need some help?” whispered in a deep low voice. And a gentle kiss pressed on the nape of your neck.

Despite the thoughts swirling in your head, you find yourself melting in his arms.

You hum and say. “Depends…if I'm gonna get any more surprise guests.”

He kisses your neck. “No more surprise guests. I promise.” And then he pulls back just enough to make your turn in his arms and face him. He softly says. “I'm sorry…Honestly, I completely forgot about any plans.”

“Sounds like you forgot about a big one.”

He smirks and lightheartedly says. “Well, you're just that good.”

You cross your arms and glare at him.

He sighs and gently puts his hands on your arms and says. “Look, I'm very sorry that I didn't tell you about this or that I put you in an embarrassing situation like that. I'm sorry…”

You keep staring at him and say. “Anything else you want to add?”

He exhales slowly and thinks for a moment and carefully adds. “I'm… sorry for…everything?”

You roll your eyes. “No, you should be sorry for not telling me about them before and the fact that they're your kids.”

Leon rolls his eyes. “I told you they're not my kids.”

You scoff. “Please, they look exactly like you.”

He shrugs. “I get that a lot.”

You step forward and push your finger on his chest. “Don't lie to me, Leon. I swear to God, if you have a secret wife somewhere—”

“Whoa! whoa… Sweetheart, let's just…take a deep breath, okay?” And gently he pushes your finger out of the way and puts his hands on your shoulders and looks in your eyes. “I swear to you, I never had a wife, nor do I have kids of my own.”

You look at him for a few moments trying to decipher any hint of deception. “You're not lying to me?”

He chuckles softly and gently cups your face. “Peach, I promise. I don't have a secret family.” He sighs slowly and quietly explains. “Look it's hard to explain, they're not my kids but I have been taking care of them like they are my own.” He pauses and adds. “It's a long story, you have to trust me. I'm not cheating on you or anyone.”

You exhale slowly, stiffened shoulders slowly relaxing but you were still curious. “Why didn’t you tell me about them like ever?”

His expression turns sheepish. “Honestly, I didn't think we were going to last.”

You look back at him confused. “It's only been 2 months.”

“This is the longest I've ever been with someone.”

“That’s…wow you really are busy huh? This explains so much.”

He quietly sighs. “Yeah.” And then kisses your forehead and looks back in your eyes “Are we okay?” He really hopes that this little hiccup won't change things much.

You slowly nod back. “Yeah, but I want you to be more open about things from now on.”

A small smile blooms on his face as he relaxes and then hugs you. “I will.” And kisses your head.

You hug him back and bury your face in his chest and just soak up the feeling of having his arms around you. It was the safest place to be in.

He gently rubs your back and says. “Now…What about some food? I want pancakes.”

You look up at him and smile. “Help me cook then.”

He kisses the tip of your nose. “You won't even have to lift your finger.”

After preparing some breakfast with Leon for yourselves and prepping some light snacks for others, you both sit down together with the girls in the living room. (After changing into better clothes)

You both sat across from the girls, Emily happily ate her candies while the other two were content with drinking orange juice and eating light since they all had eaten enough at Brunch earlier. The atmosphere of the room had gotten more relaxed and calm although some questions were still unanswered.

You decide it was better to break the ice than just sit in silence and ponder. You look back at the girls and ask. “So, how did you both meet Leon?”

Sherry and Grace briefly stop eating and glance back at Leon. He meets their glance and subtly shakes his head at them and goes back to eating.

Sherry answers. “We have known each other for a long time. He knew my parents… and I was a kid. After my parents passed away, we stayed in touch, off and on.”

Grace adds on. “I met Leon last year during…work trip. Leon helped me through some work things so…”

“Wow…so you all are like a close knit group, huh?”

They all nod. “Yeah.”

Your eyes flick to Emily and look back at Grace. “How old is your daughter?”

Grace smiles and says. “She's 7.”

You smile back at the girls. “That's nice…it's like you all are family.”

Leon nudges his leg with yours and smiles up at you. “We are.”

Grace then asks. “So, how did you both meet?”

Your smile widens at the question and slide your arm around his. “We met at a gun range.”

They don't look surprised at that. If anything it makes sense since they know he doesn't go anywhere that much. He was content in his company, if anything it would most likely irritate him meeting new people.

You keep going. “I was really impressed by his skills there and I just thought it would be a nice ice breaker for us if he taught me a bit. Since, he looked like a pro. I figured a simple ‘hello’ wouldn't hurt.”

Grace smiles. “That sounds sweet. Did his tips help?”

You look back at Leon with a small grin. “Oh…definitely. I'm so glad we did those lessons.”

The tip of his ears turn a bit pink and his head turns to meet your eyes, simply reminiscing a moment that was merely months ago.

He was also glad to meet you, the best thing he did in his entire life was meeting you and simply being here as long as you would allow it.

He teases “Yeah…your gun skills did need work. I was just doing a public service by helping you out.”

You giggle and say. “Oh so that's why you taught me? So I don't put others in danger?”

“Yeah, pretty much.”

“Wow, how kind of you to help a damsel who needed help with a gun.”

He grins. “I know, I'm very kind.”

“Right…and those dates we went to after all those lessons finished?”

He sighs and plays into it. “Never saw it coming. I was doing it with nothing but kindness in my heart.”

You giggle. “They should award you for that.”

He smirks and leans in to whisper. “A kiss will do just fine.”

You giggle and quietly whisper. “Guests are here, if you remember.”

He shrugs. “Mm.. They could always close their eyes.” And playfully leans in to steal a quick kiss.

You chuckle softly, push him back before he could do that and lightheartedly say “Shut up.”

You look back at the girls just in time to see all of them quietly sharing a small smile, before looking away pretending not to see you two.

You clear your throat with a smile. “Umm… anyway, that's how we met.”

Sherry had a genuine smile on her face since the first time you saw her. “That's really good… I'm happy for you two.”

Emily then pipes in like an eager child and asks. “Will you join us for the parks too, miss?”

You raise an eyebrow and look at Grace. “Parks?”

Grace smiles and says. “Oh, it’s kind of our little tradition after brunch we go to the parks, she loves the swings or drawing there.”

Leon adds. “And since I didn't go today.. It was delayed…” And smiles sheepishly.

Emily keeps her eyes on you and asks again. “Will you pleaseeee join us, miss?”

Your expression softens and says. “Aww… I would love to…” You look back at Leon. “If that's okay and I'm not intruding.”

He shakes his head and takes your hand in his and gives it a squeeze. “Never.”

✧༺♥༻✧✧༺♥༻✧✧༺♥༻✧

Soon enough you find yourself walking down the pavement hand in hand with Leon & the girls walking ahead of you, Emily smiling & walking happily in the middle with her aunt and her mom. The warm afternoon sunlight covers you all as if nature itself approved of this sweet outing.

You glance at Leon, his expression was much more relaxed and lighter like an unspoken weight had been lifted off his chest, his eyes were fixed on the little girl a few steps ahead of him, a genuine smile on his face.

It was hard not to be affected by such a smile, a man who never knew peace in his life finally experiencing it and letting it fill his body up with content. He takes a deep breath simply savoring this moment. He never wanted it to end.

He was with a beautiful woman that he cared so much about with a family where his bond with those girls was forged by blood, loss and grief. Right in this moment, to him it was a sign that things in his life would be more than alright.

He was also glad the girls and her finally got to meet. Sure it was…very awkward at first but so far it looked like they liked her enough for a first meet.

After a few moments, you softly ask. “You come here with them every Sunday?"

Leon looks down at you and says. “No, but I wish I could. All of us have busy lives & we try to make time for one another.”

You slowly nod and smile up at him. “That's adorable.”

His smile gets wider. “Oh wait till we reach the ‘ice cream party’ after all this. That little munchkin loves her 2 scoops of strawberry ice cream.” He shrugs and adds. “She tries her best to get 3 scoops but Grace doesn't let her because she's worried about a sugar crash.”

You laugh at the scene he painted in your head. “God, that's perfect.” With a light nudge on his shoulder you ask. “What do you choose?”

“One scoop of chocolate and the other vanilla, with the vanilla at the bottom.”

You giggle at his answer and tease. “That's a very specific ice cream order from a guy who likes his coffee black.”

His expression turns sheepish and explains himself. “At first when we started doing these brunches I didn't eat any but the peer pressure from the girls was strong enough for me to cave in to the sugar.” He lightheartedly rolls his eyes and adds. “That's the only sweet thing I'm willing to add in my diet…on occasion."

A smirk forms on your lips and tease him again. “I bet with me here, I can make you like a few more sweet things.”

He groans and says. “I told you peach, I hate those caramel drinks you like.”

You roll your eyes. “Oh come on, one sip won't kill you & fyi I only drink those on special occasions. So, I'm responsible with my caffeine.”

He huffs, amused at your lie. “Sure you do.”

A soft chuckle leaves your lips. “Hey, one of these days I will make you like that stuff.”

He smirks and changes his grip from your hand to your waist, his grip is tight as he pulls you closer to his side and flirtatiously murmurs. “I don’t need any of that stuff when I got the sweetest girl on my side.”

Your face immediately feels warm, blood rushing to your cheeks and ears, you laugh and roll your eyes. “You know what, I saw that com—” your words are silenced by the familiar pair of lips you've spent kissing this past month, the kiss was sweet and loving, proving his point.

You slowly pull away from the kiss, staring in his eyes with a wide grin on your lips. “Hmm… you win that one.”

He laughs and kisses your cheek lovingly, squeezing your waist with his hand. “Come on, let's keep up with them before they see us slacking off.”

You share a laugh with him and start walking faster to catch up with the girls.

After crossing a few roads, all of you finally reach the park filled with little kids running around each other, parents sitting on park benches chatting with each other and keeping a watchful eye on their kids.

Emily was already tugging Grace's hand towards the swings when a thought crosses her head she turns to face you and grins widely at you. “Want to join me on the swings, miss?”

You smile down at her. “Of course, I would love to.” Emily giggles in response and grabs your hand along with Grace's to drag to the swings. You laugh at her enthusiasm and follow Emily.

Leon watches you three go with a warm expression on his face and then walks over to a nearby bench to keep an eye on you three.

A minute later Sherry sits beside him too and watches you three along with him, she slowly prompts. “So...”

Leon briefly glances at her then back at watching you help Emily swing with Grace. “So…?” he repeats.

She shrugs and says. “Nothing…You look really happy.”

He dryly says. “I'm always happy.”

She snorts and says. “You know what I mean.”

He sighs and leans back against the park bench and then looks at her with a small smile. “Yeah, I know… And I'm happy.”

Sherry smiles back at him and slowly nods. “Cool.”

After a pause, she slowly exhales and leans back on the bench too then asks. “What story did you tell her?”

His expression shifts from warm to a more neutral one, sobering up a little. He shifts slightly and looks ahead. “...private contractor. Security work mostly, occasionally work with the government.”

Sherry looks ahead too, amusement visible on her face. “Better than mine, I just tell my dates that I'm a reporter…travel around the world to collect news.”

He hums in response. “Not bad…they ever ask to see your work?”

She looks back at Leon and says. “I don't stick around for that long.”

He keeps his gaze ahead, but his lips purse as he nods slowly at her answer.

She carefully watches his expression and asks. “I take this one is not like the others then?”

He stays quiet but crosses his arms, still not meeting her eyes.

She nods slowly and looks ahead, watching you and Grace laugh while swinging Emily.

After a moment she simply says. “I'm happy for you, you deserve it. It's great that you were able to find someone.”

His shoulders visibly relax, exhaling slowly and then looks back at Sherry. His eyes fill with gratitude and nods wordlessly.

She smiles in response and nods back. She looks back ahead and asks. “Will you ever tell her? The job, raccoon city…”

He looks down at the ground as if thinking of an answer, taking his time with it.

Just when she was about to change the topic thinking it was too touchy he says. “I don't know…I don't know if I ever want to do that to her.”

He sighs heavily and slowly lifts his head back up and looks back at you, your expression was warm as always as you happily talk to Grace, Emily switched to some other swing and started to play with other kids, you were probably getting to know Grace well, not like he could hear anything from this far. And as if you sensed his gaze on you, your eyes met his, your smile got wider and gave him a small wave.

Leon's expression softens and returns the wave, he watches your face relax and go back to what Grace was talking about.

With another heavy sigh he looks back at Sherry, he purses his lips briefly but then decides to simply talk about his fears out loud. “It's just…this is perfect. It's only been two months but…it's perfect.” A lump rises in his throat and bites the inside of cheek, trying to stop that feeling. “I get to be…normal. A man simply spending time with a woman he cares about. I just get to be with her and she's happy.” He pauses then dryly says. “Which is just unbelievable because I've lost half of my mind at this point.”

“I want to keep one good thing away from all that bullshit. I just…love her.”

He immediately relaxes after saying that, a weight had been lifted off his chest. It felt good… felt right.

He looks back at Sherry with a small smile. “Yeah, I love her.”

Sherry's smile was brighter now, she had never seen him this happy… and he deserved to be. And she was very much happy for him.

He clears his throat and says. “...I haven't told her yet.”

“What?!” Looking at him as if he was insane not to tell her.

“Well, It's only been two months.”

“So?!” Still looking at him wide eyed and thinking he was stupid not to tell her yet.

He shrugs. “It's too early.”

She rolls her eyes. “Oh, just tell her. Wouldn't kill you.” She adds. “You're just scared she won't say it back.”

He huffs and then says. “No…”

Sherry sighs and then says. “Look, just tell her. I'm sure she knows by now that you love her.”

He hesitates and then says. “I don't want to rush her.”

“Look, after all that you just said…I'm sure she knows that you like her very much.” She adds. “I get it… it's not my relationship but you clearly have something good here. Just make sure to say it to her so she knows that too.”

He quietly thinks over her advice but his heart beats louder every time he imagines saying those three words to you.

He nods quietly and says. “Yeah.” After a pause he then adds. “Fine, just don't tell the others that I have this going on… it's still new and I wanna keep it to myself right now.”

Sherry clears her throat and says. “Yeah, about that… I texted Claire…”

His eyebrows shot up to his forehead and said. “What? When?”

She sheepishly adds. “When…we interrupted you this morning and saw her in your shirt.”

Leon grits his teeth. “Sherry. Who else did you text?”

Sherry rubs the back of her neck and says. “...Chris.”

He sighs heavily and rubs his face. “Jesus Christ.”

✧༺♥༻✧✧༺♥༻✧✧༺♥༻✧

After an hour of playing in the playground, Emily was ready to go home but like Leon said she always wanted an ice cream treat to go with after.

And like always, Emily got her two scoops of strawberry scoops, Leon had chocolate and vanilla scoops with vanilla at the bottom, Sherry had her mint chocolate.

But this time, they had a new addition in the team and you decided to go with a chocolate ice cream with choco chip sprinkles.

Respectable choice. Not bad.

Your arm was interlinked with Leon's as you ate your ice creams with the girls walking back home together.

“I can't believe you would get mint chocolate.” Leon said to Sherry.

Sherry doesn't bat an eye at his comment as she focuses on her own ice cream. “You say that every time I get it.”

“Yeah, because I hate it every time you get it.”

You chuckle and nudge him. “Hey, don't hate her ice cream choices. Don't knock it until you try it. You should try it sometime, maybe you'll like it.”

Sherry grins and looks at Leon. “I like her.”

Leon narrows his eyes. “Whose side are you on?”

You grin at him and say. “The ice cream.”

Emily then pipes in as she licks her own ice cream. “I like her too.”

You laugh out loud and playfully ruffle Emily’s hair. “Aww thank you, kiddo.”

Sherry smirks at Leon. “See, I have supporters.”

He corrects her. “Only to the ice cream’s side.”

She shrugs. “Same thing.”

He looks back at you. “How about you be more on my side hmm?”

She smiles. “Oh come on…” And tighten your grip on his arm. “You should be more experimental.”

He rolls his eyes. “Too old for that.” And licks his ice cream.

You laugh and kiss his cheek in response.

By the time all of you reach Leon's place, the ice creams were finished and everyone was content with simply walking.

Grace then turns to the two of you and says. “Well, there's our car. ”

Emily immediately hugs your waist and looks up at you with a wide grin. “Will you be there next time?”

Your heart melts at the sweet plea of the child and give her an endearing smile. “I'll try to be there.”

Emily grins and nods. “Okay!” She then goes back to Grace and takes her hand and waves back at you two. “Bye miss! Bye Uncle Leon!”

Sherry follows Grace and Emily and waves back at you both too. When they get in their respective cars, you make sure to wave them goodbye as they drive off.

You sigh and smile at Leon. “I had fun… You don't mind that I'm joining you all for the next time?”

He shakes his head and wraps his arm around your waist. “No, I'm glad you're joining us.”

You wrap your arms loosely around his neck. “You think the girls like me?”

His smile turns more soft as he rubs your back and pulls you closer. “Yeah, I'm sure. I mean Emily was already excited enough for everyone, Grace was happy too.”

“What about Sherry? I didn't get to talk to her much.”

He shakes his head and smiles. “She liked you too. I'm sure.”

You breathe a sigh of relief. “Phew, good. It would've been awkward if they didn't like me and I showed up for the next brunch.”

He laughs and smirks and says. “That will be entertaining to say the least.”

You share a laugh with him and then quiet down, with a content smile.

Leon's heart was still a mess ever since Sherry gave her advice. But standing here with you, it felt right...

Yes, he was worried if you'd say it back but he just had to say it.

He takes a deep breath and gulps slowly. “So, I wanted to say something…I just had it in my head for a long time.”

You nod, straightening up and looking at him.

His eyes flick back to yours, he had so much to say, he loves being here with you right now, he couldn't imagine being alone in his life again, he loves how you laugh and play with Emily, he loves how you interacted with his girls today. You were more than perfect.

You were you.

And for the first time he prayed that you felt the same as him.

“I love you.” After a pause he adds. “I have been feeling like that for quite a while… Today seeing you with them, it just amplified what I already felt.”

Your heart beats faster in your chest, your face flushes as a warm feeling fills you and ask. “...Really?”

His smile gets brighter as he hears your question and rests his forehead against yours. “Really. No question about it. Maybe it's too soon but I don't care.”

You grin at his words and giggle. “I love you too.”

He chuckles when he hears your giggle and gently cups your face with both hands and kisses you. You kiss him back, eyes fluttering close and a big smile on your face.

It was the best day of his life.

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OMG I'm SO HAPPY THIS FIC IS FINALLY OVER. Istg It was so fun too. Writing a multiple character fic with canon characters is something I never really did before. But it's sooo fun. I hope I get inspo to write something like this again.

And thank you to all of you who read this far. You da real boss. I appreciate every like, comment and reblogs I get it and I would loveee to know how I did with this one (hopefully not too bad)

I hope this was an entertaining read for you all. Have a good day y'all!!

Also I sneak in the name of one of my wips in this fic hehe. I don't think y'all will be able to find it. It's for my amusement.

~Bella