✧ short n' sweet ✧

[romeo--thowlett]

Romeo had been so sure this would be easy, too sure, apparently. Elias had folded within seconds, fast asleep and peaceful, while Ophelia just stared back at him. Wide-eyed, stubborn, almost amused at him. He looked down at her, then back at Skylar, a crooked smile tugging at his lips despite the growing suspicion that he was losing this battle. His fingers gently tapped against Ophelia’s side as he tried again, softer this time, “C’mon, sweetheart, don’t make me look bad at parenting." He glanced up when Skylar questioned flirting, raising a brow, clearly entertained. “Since always,” he shot back quietly, a playful lilt in his voice. “Especially with me, you're just innocent so people don't always realise what's going around in that head of yours.” His attention flicked back to Ophelia, who was very much not asleep, and his expression shifted into mock offence. “Unbelievable,” he whispered, shaking his head. “Your brother’s out cold and you’re just plotting against us, aren’t you?” When Skylar joked again, he let out a soft huff of a laugh, though there was a hint of mild annoyance creeping in now, his usual charm wasn’t landing, and he didn’t like that one bit. “I can convince her,” he insisted under his breath, leaning down slightly closer to Ophelia. “You’re really testing me here, you know that?” he murmured, tone warm but teasing, brushing his thumb gently along her cheek like that alone might do the trick. As Skylar returned and wrapped herself around him, Romeo instinctively leaned into her, one arm shifting to rest around her waist while still holding Ophelia securely. At her question, he glanced sideways at her, then back down at their very awake daughter, exhaling through his nose. “This is rigged,” he said softly, though the smile never quite left his face. “Two of us and she’s still winning.” He paused, then added with quiet determination, “Give me five minutes. I refuse to lose to someone who can’t even walk yet.” After a moment, Romeo let out a quiet breath and sank down onto the edge of the couch in the room, still holding Ophelia against his chest as he kept the gentle rocking going. His head tipped back slightly, eyes flicking toward the ceiling like he was reconsidering his entire approach. “Maybe it’s me,” he muttered, a hint of dry amusement laced with defeat. “Maybe I’m just not cut out to rock a baby to sleep.” He glanced down at her again, lips twitching despite himself. “You’ve got something against me, I swear."

[skylargrxy]

skylar's eyes stayed on romeo as he kept rocking their daughter in his arms, trying to lull her to sleep, but ophelia clearly had other plans. "she's not making you look very good at this parenting thing, romeo," the blonde teased, a warm smile tugging at her lips. to skylar, romeo was perfect. nothing and no one could make him seem any less amazing than he was, not even their stubborn daughter. when he told her she'd been a flirt from the beginning, she couldn't help but laugh. "i'm a flirt and people don't realise it because i look too innocent... hmm, that doesn't sound like me," she joked with a grin. she watched the scene unfold—romeo looking mildly offended as he tried to convince ophelia to sleep while she completely ignored him. once skylar had settled elias in his crib, she wandered back over to the couch where romeo was, immediately melting into his side when his arm wrapped around her. "i think she's just as competitive as you are," she chuckled. "maybe she made a bet with elias. they don't talk, but they're twins, they have to communicate telepathically." skylar laughed softly at her own joke. "no rush, babe," she assured him. eventually ophelia would get tired enough to stop fighting it. it was only a matter of time. when romeo sat down, skylar couldn't stop looking at him and their daughter together, completely in love with the sight. as he blamed himself and his apparently terrible rocking skills, she immediately shook her head. "that's not true," she promised. moving closer, she sat beside him on the couch. "you're amazing. elias would've fallen asleep so fast if you'd been the one putting him down." with a sigh, she rested her head against his shoulder. her finger reached toward ophelia's tiny face and gently traced the bridge of her nose, gliding slowly from her forehead down to the button of her nose over and over again. she'd read somewhere that it could help soothe babies to sleep. "it's all trial and error, i think," skylar mused quietly, still repeating the motion. "try this, maybe it'll calm her down enough." she glanced up at him before leaning over and pressing a soft kiss against his cheek. "you're amazing," she whispered again.

[romeo--thowlett]

Romeo stood up with Ophelia in his arms, gently rocking her, though by now it was becoming very clear she had absolutely no intention of falling asleep. Every time her eyelids dipped for even a moment, they popped right back open again, wide and curious, like she was determined not to miss whatever was happening around her. He caught her staring up at him again and let out a quiet, tired chuckle, shaking his head a little in amusement. When Skylar spoke, he glanced over toward her and Elias, the corner of his mouth lifting. "Yeah, I’m starting to believe that.” His eyes drifted back down to Ophelia, who blinked right back at him with stubborn alertness. “You know you’re supposed to be asleep, right?” he told her softly, amused. “That’s kind of the whole point of dad holding you like this.” She, of course, didn’t seem convinced in the slightest, just continuing to stare up at him like she was perfectly content staying awake. When Skylar joked that she’d want to hang out with him a little longer too, Romeo looked over his shoulder at her. "Hey, flirt. You can hang out with me in our bed tonight." He looked back down at Ophelia again. "She’s not even pretending to try to sleep. Just looking at me like she’s got somewhere to be.” His gaze shifted to Elias resting against Skylar’s chest, his expression softening slightly. "He's got the right idea over there." Romeo let out a quiet laugh and shook his head again. “Not even close,” he admitted. “I definitely thought they’d sleep more than this.” He adjusted Ophelia slightly against his chest as she continued blinking stubbornly up at him, clearly still determined to stay awake. Romeo’s hand moved slowly up and down Ophelia’s small back in a gentle, steady rhythm as he held her against his chest. “We’re tired, little one,” he murmured warmly, continuing the soothing motion along her back. “How are you not?”

[skylargrxy]

if skylar was honest, she never expected the twins to be so different, and it was clear in how it took elias two seconds to fall asleep while ophelia stayed awake for as long as possible. elias had already lost the battle against sleep; he yawned, curling his little hand around a strand of skylar’s hair, something she would fight to free later when she stopped finding it cute. the blonde looked at romeo, amused, watching how he talked to his daughter. "i don’t think it’s enough, babe," she chuckled softly. she couldn’t see her daughter’s face, but she could tell she was looking up at romeo with those big blue eyes of hers. "since when am i a flirt?" she murmured, almost a whisper. "i’m just saying, ophelia, be a girl’s girl and fall asleep," she joked, probably because she was so tired her mind couldn’t help but find everything hilarious. "i don’t think you’re going to convince her," she sighed. when romeo admitted he didn’t think it would be that hard, she let out a breath of relief. skylar slowly stood up and left romeo with ophelia, gently placing elias in his little crib, covering him with a soft blanket before walking back to them. "two vs one, who’ll win?" she said softly. with that, skylar moved closer to her boyfriend, her arm wrapping around his waist, softly humming one of cinderella’s songs as she rested against romeo’s arms.

[romeo--thowlett]

Romeo let out a quiet huff of laughter under his breath, still pacing slowly across the room with Ophelia tucked carefully against his chest. One large hand supported her head while the other rested securely along her back, his long strides gentle. “She’s not even pretending,” he murmured, glancing over at Skylar with an amused shake of his head. “Wide awake. Just staring at me like I’m the most interesting thing she’s ever seen.” Ophelia blinked up at him, eyes bright and alert, a tiny fist curled against his shirt. Romeo softened instantly under her gaze. For all his size, the way he held her was impossibly careful. “I’ve been shushing for five minutes,” he continued quietly, a crooked smile tugging at his lips. “She thinks it’s funny. Every time I stop, she kicks. I swear she’s messing with me.” He adjusted her slightly higher on his chest, lowering his voice as if that might finally convince her. “Your brother's clearly got better bedtime manners,” he added, nodding toward Elias. Looking back at Skylar, warmth settled into his expression. “She’s good, though. Just very awake.” He paused, studying Ophelia’s blinking eyes. “I think she just wants to hang out with her dad a little longer.”

[skylargrxy]

she had started with ophelia first, thinking that would give them enough time to feed elias and that he’d drift off to sleep in the meantime—but the baby clearly had other plans. she gently burped elias against her shoulder, holding him close as he stretched in her arms, his eyes fighting to stay open before slowly giving in. across the room, ophelia showed no sign of surrender. “she’s going to be a night owl,” she murmured with a small shake of her head, glancing over at romeo. she shifted slightly on the sofa, settling elias more comfortably against her chest while one of her fingers remained firmly trapped in his tiny hand, the baby refusing to let go. “i mean, i get it,” she whispered with a tired little smile. “i’d want to hang out with her dad a bit longer too.” her eyes softened as she looked down at elias. “he was probably just exhausted… poor thing couldn’t fight it anymore., i'll see him again in three hours” after a moment, she looked back up at romeo, amusement mixing with her fatigue. “please tell me i’m not the only one who thought this was going to be easier.”

[isaiahking]

Isaiah had always found it easy to talk to Skylar, conversation with her just flowed, natural and warm, like it had always been meant to be that way. He genuinely loved that about her. He loved that she felt comfortable around him, that she saw him not just as her best friend’s husband, but as her friend too. When she mentioned meeting more often, his whole face lit up without hesitation. He nodded quickly, almost too eagerly. “Right. Exactly,” he agreed, his tone bright. The idea of making more time for all of them before life got chaotic felt important to him. He valued those connections deeply, having people around him and his husband who felt like chosen family. Then the topic shifted to competition, and he laughed, an open, boyish sound that came from deep in his chest. “Oh, I am competitive,” he admitted easily, shaking his head as he thought about it. “My parents never just let me win. Ever. If I wanted something, I had to earn it. So now? Yeah, I don’t really know how to turn that off.” There was no bitterness in his voice, just amusement and maybe a little pride. When Skylar mentioned Romeo being competitive too, Isaiah’s eyes sparkled. He leaned back slightly, grinning wide as if he’d just been handed a challenge. “Oh, he is?” he asked, already laughing. “See, now that just makes me want to test it.” The thought of going head-to-head with Romeo clearly entertained him. He ran a hand over his jaw, shaking his head as he pictured it. “A prize, though? Yeah, that’s dangerous. You put something on the line and it’s over. I’m locked in.” He laughed again, the competitive fire in him igniting in the most playful way. When she mentioned couples board game night turning into a war, he lost it a little, laughing harder now, shoulders shaking. “Listen, I’m just saying, if there’s a scoreboard involved, I can’t promise I’ll be calm about it,” he teased. “But it’ll be friendly. Mostly friendly.” He winked playfully. The idea of Leo and Skylar being their cheerleaders only made him grin wider. “You two better be ready to pick sides,” he added, still clearly amused. “Because if Romeo thinks I’m going down easy, he’s got another thing coming.” But there was no edge to it, just happiness. He loved the thought of shared nights, laughter, harmless rivalry. For him, competition wasn’t about tearing someone down. It was about energy, fun, pushing each other and laughing about it afterward. “It’s been so nice to catch up with you again though, Sky,” he said, taking another sip of his drink before it went cold. “I know you’re technically Leo’s best friend,” he added with a teasing grin, “but I’m glad I get to steal some of that friendship too.” He laughed lightly. “Seriously, though. It means a lot that we get along like this. Makes everything feel easy." His expression softened, voice quieter but warm. “You know,” he said thoughtfully, “Leo found a really great friend in you.” He gave her a small, sincere smile. “I like knowing he has you when he doesn’t have me. That matters to me more than you probably realise.”

[skylargrxy]

it had been really nice catching up with isaiah; skylar genuinely enjoyed talking with him, and it was easy to see why people liked having him around. “oh, so the house is going to be full of testosterone then,” she joked lightly, the idea of a game night already sounding chaotic in the best way. “being the baby of my family meant they let me win sometimes, so i guess that’s why i’m not very competitive,” she shrugged with a small laugh. “i just like playing. winning is nice, but i’m not going to fight anyone over it.” when he mentioned picking sides, she raised an eyebrow playfully. “oh, so we already have to choose teams?” she chuckled. “leo and i will probably end up on opposite sides anyway.” there was warmth in her smile; no matter the universe, she knew she’d always end up cheering for romeo somehow. “and i don’t think he’s going to go easy on anyone either… honestly, that’s a little scary,” she admitted with a soft laugh, glancing at her friends. when isaiah finished his drink, skylar reached over to grab his cup and plate to tidy up. “it’s always great talking to you. thanks for coming by,” she said sincerely. “and i’m pretty sure leo won’t mind if we’re friends too.” she meant it—isaiah was a good man, a great boyfriend to her friend, and someone she was glad to have in her life. “that’s sweet of you to say, but i think i’m the lucky one,” she added warmly. “you’re really the best, isaiah.” she smiled as they stepped outside, giving him a quick hug. “i’ll text you the details for game night.” pulling back, she gave him a playful salute. “have a good shift. see you, officer king.”

[skylargrxy]

skylar glanced over at romeo, now shushing and trying to put ophelia to sleep as he walked around the room. it never stopped amazing her how tall he was and how tiny the baby looked in his arms. the twins were only a couple of months old, and she hoped the whole ritual of feeding them both and putting them to sleep would get easier with time. she was so glad romeo had that leave with her, at least for another month or so. as elias finished, she pulled her t-shirt back down and looked at the baby, who let out a tiny yawn. "someone’s already sleepy," she whispered, gently placing him against her shoulder to help him burp. "did you manage to get her to sleep, baby?" she whispered, glancing over at romeo. @romeo--thowlett

[isaiahking]

Isaiah smiled softly as Skylar spoke, that gentle, affectionate expression he always seemed to wear when someone showed care so openly towards him and his husband. He squeezed her hand lightly in return, thumb brushing over her knuckles again, grounding and warm. At the mention of the jackets, he chuckled, eyes bright. “That’s actually really sweet. Matching jackets is kind of adorable,” he added with an easy grin. “Romeo seems like the type to wear something until it falls apart just because it came from you.” When she joked about being “cool by association,” Isaiah laughed softly, shaking his head. “Hey, I think you’d be cool regardless,” he said kindly. “But I’m sure they respect you because you care. People can feel that." He nodded along when she defended Leo, smiling at the fondness in her voice. “Yeah,” he agreed. “Some people just have that effortless charm about them. He's definitely one of those people." At her invitation, his expression softened even more. “I’d really like that,” Isaiah said warmly. “Dinner, a movie, board games, it sounds perfect.” He smiled, a little shy but genuine. “I think it would be really nice too." Isaiah laughed softly, a little shake of his head as he glanced at Sky. “You know,” he said, teasing but warm, “I’m kind of competitive. I like to win.” He grinned, shrugging with a playful spark in his eyes. “Not that I’m mean about it or anything but I can’t help it. My parents well, they never really let me win at anything when I was a kid. Board games, races, even small stuff. It just pushed me, I guess. Made me want it more.” He chuckled again, glancing at her with a mischievous twinkle. “So don’t take it too personally when I go a little overboard in friendly competitions. It’s just how I’m wired.”

[skylargrxy]

talking to isaiah had always been easy, something skylar genuinely loved. she adored how kind he always was to her and felt grateful that her best friend had married him—so much so that she could truly call isaiah a friend. it still amazed her sometimes. when she suggested meeting more often, she meant it; she loved spending time with the kings, and if she added romeo to the mix, she’d have someone to turn to whenever they got handsy or started flirting with each other. “right?” she smiled. “just an excuse to see each other more before life gets busier,” she nodded, the smile lingering. when he admitted he was competitive, she chuckled, and as he explained how his parents never let him win, forcing him to push harder for results, she smiled softly. “oh, i’m not competitive at all. i actually like when other people win,” she said lightly. “romeo, though? he can be a little competitive,” she nodded. “i feel like you’ll end up competing with him, and leo and i will just be your cheerleaders,” she added with a grin. “all you need is a prize, and i bet you two will fight for it until one of you wins,” she laughed warmly. “honestly, i’m scared of the war that would start over something cute like a couples board game night.”

[romeo--thowlett]

Romeo smiled when she questioned him, the corner of his mouth lifting in that easy, boyish way that made it feel like he meant every word. He didn’t tease her for doubting it, he just answered honestly, his voice low and warm. “Yeah,” he said softly, steady gaze on her, “my favorite." When she murmured that it wasn’t nice about his family, he shrugged lightly, not bitter, just matter-of-fact. “It’s okay,” he replied, gentle and reassuring, like he didn’t want her to worry about it. “I’m used to it. I have always been odd one out back home." Her promise made him pause. Romeo looked at her like he was committing the moment to memory, something sincere flickering across his expression. “You don’t know how much that means to me,” he said quietly. “Really. And, same goes for you and your family.” His tone stayed light, but the words were solid, meant. When she tugged his hand and mentioned the towel, he chuckled under his breath, nodding. “Lead the way,” he said, glancing toward the kitchen out of respect before following her upstairs. Stepping into her room, he took it in with a polite curiosity, careful not to touch anything. “It’s nice,” he added honestly, voice soft. “Feels very you.” When she handed him the towel, his fingers brushed hers, brief but intentional. “Thanks,” he said, meeting her eyes again, a small, charming smile settling on his lips. “For this. For tonight. For showing up. For everything." He ran it through his hair first, roughing it up just enough to dry the damp strands, then worked it down over his neck and shoulders, careful and unhurried. Lowering the towel, he met her eyes, that familiar charm settling back into his expression. Romeo cleared his throat softly, a hint of a grin tugging at his lips as he glanced at her, then politely away. He lifted the towel a little, gesturing with it in an almost sheepish way. “Hey, uh,” he said lightly, charming but clearly trying not to fluster her more than she already was. “Could you close your eyes for a second?” His tone stayed easy, respectful. “I gotta dry, y’know, down there.” He chuckled under his breath, not crude, just honest, shifting his stance slightly so he wasn’t facing her directly. “Promise I’ll be quick."

[skylargrxy]

as skylar guided them to her room, she felt her heart racing inside her chest. she was taking him to her favorite place after their first date—after being in a relationship for barely two hours. she wasn’t nervous about him wanting to go further; she wanted to believe romeo wasn’t like her ex, who would’ve expected her to do whatever he wanted. when he looked around, she smiled. “thanks,” she nodded. “i spend a lot of time here. at least it feels like me,” she added softly, before heading to the bathroom to grab the towels. when he thanked her, skylar blinked—she wasn’t sure why he was thanking her when she felt like she was the one who should be grateful. and she was. “thank you too,” she murmured, biting down on her lower lip nervously as she looked up at him. as he started drying himself, she watched him while he wasn’t looking, not wanting to pry, just letting herself take in the moment. when he glanced her way, she quickly looked down, focusing on drying her hair instead, more gently than he was. she kept her attention on herself until she heard him clear his throat, making her look up again. when he asked her to close her eyes, her brows knit together slightly, and when he explained why, her cheeks flushed instantly. she turned around so she wasn’t facing him. “yes—sorry,” she said quietly, taking a deep breath, her heart pounding as she tried to keep busy by drying herself, anything to steady the nerves fluttering through her chest.

[xodettexolsonx]

Odette slipped inside carefully, one hand already reaching back to ease the door closed behind her. Millie was balanced on her hip, bundled up and very much awake, her little fingers already reaching toward anything within sight.

“Hey,” Odette said softly, smiling the moment she saw Skylar. “We made it without waking the whole building, so I’m calling that a win.”

At Skylar’s voice, Millie perked up immediately, eyes lighting up as she let out a quiet but enthusiastic little sound, waving one mittened hand in her direction. Odette laughed under her breath, gently catching her wrist before she could start flailing.

“Yep, that’s your goddaughter,” she said fondly. “Growing way too fast and fully convinced everyone exists solely to say hi to her.”

She leaned down slightly so Millie was closer to Skylar’s eye level, keeping her voice soft. “Can you say hi?” she prompted gently, earning something that was almost a word and a very proud grin.

Odette glanced toward the hallway, instinctively lowering her voice even more. “The twins asleep?” she asked. “Because I can absolutely bribe her with snacks and whispers if we need to stay quiet.”

Her gaze softened as she looked back at Skylar. “I missed you.”

[skylargrxy]

“you’re good, the building can survive, but it took me an hour to get ophelia to fall asleep,” she smiled softly, her attention moving to millie. “she’s convinced everyone exists just to say hi to her, because it’s true,” she added with a grin, reaching out so the baby could hold her finger. “she’s so cute i’m going to melt.” as they walked deeper into her place, skylar smiled. “they’re out, but they’ll probably be up before romeo comes back from work, so don’t worry about millie,” she assured. “i’ve missed you too, it’s been a while,” she nodded. “i never thought being a mom was going to be so bad for my social life,” she joked.

[skylargrxy]

odette was supposed to come over, and skylar had finally managed to get the twins to sleep. they were only a couple of months old and didn’t do much yet, but it was too cold outside for skylar to take them out in their stroller to go see odette, which was why she had asked her best friend to come over instead. she’d asked her to text when she arrived so the babies wouldn’t wake up from the doorbell. when she saw the message, she opened the door, only to find her best friend and her goddaughter there. “hi,” she said excitedly, then softened immediately. “and hello, millie,” she added in a high-pitched voice. “you’re growing so fast, hi babygirl.” @xodettexolsonx

[romeo--thowlett]

Romeo’s grin was slow, confident, the kind that made it obvious he knew exactly what effect he had on her. He kept his hold gentle at her waist, leaning just close enough to keep her attention. “You’re adorable when you’re flustered,” he teased softly, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear with the tip of his fingers. When she asked to go inside, he nodded, still smiling, his arms steady as he set her down carefully. “Alright, alright,” he said, mock-sighing, though there was warmth in his tone. “Wouldn’t want my favorite girl catching a cold on my watch.” He glanced at her with that charming, teasing look that he was known for. “But just so you know,” he added with a wink, “I think you’re way too cute to be so worried about me. I sometimes sleep in my car if things aren't great at home, so I'm use the cold." Even as he followed her inside, he kept his voice soft and easy, flirty but careful, aware that she was still new to all of this. “Seriously though,” he added, leaning slightly close as if sharing a secret, “tonight was perfect. And I’m already looking forward to our next date." Romeo let his hands rest gently on her waist, thumbs brushing lightly as he held her close, grounding the moment without rushing it. His smile was warm, teasing, but sincere. “You know,” he said, tilting his head so his voice was low and easy, “I really like your mom and your grandma, too. They seem really cool." He let out a small breath through his nose before speaking again. “I can’t really say the same for my own parents,” he admitted, voice lower now, honest. “Or my brother—Nick.” He gave a brief, almost apologetic shrug. “I wish things were different. I really do. But they don’t care and I don’t think they ever will.” He looked at her then, steady and open, not asking for pity—just understanding. A faint, crooked smile returned, softer than before. “I guess that’s why it means something to me, seeing families that actually show up for each other.”

[skylargrxy]

skylar felt her cheeks burn as he told her she was adorable when she was flustered, something that seemed to happen around him far more often than usual. she could feel his hand on her waist, her skin almost burning under his touch, and the way he brushed a strand of hair behind her ear was enough to steal her breath and make her heart skip. “your favorite girl?” the question slipped from her lips in a whisper, unsure if he really meant it, since no one had ever said that to her before. she guided them back inside the house, and at his words she couldn’t help but feel sad that he had a family who didn’t appreciate him the way he deserved. “that’s not nice,” she murmured, looking at him. goosebumps spread down her neck as he leaned in and told her the night had been perfect, and she stopped, looking up at him as his hands found her waist and pulled her closer. “i– i liked it too,” she nodded softly, her heart racing. skylar looked down as he talked about his family, then met his eyes again, her chest tightening—not out of pity, but because she wished he felt valued. “you have me now,” she said quietly, “if you need anything, i’ll show up for you,” she promised, meaning every word as her hands moved to his chest. “i promise,” she whispered. hearing her mother’s voice from the kitchen, skylar let out a small sigh, took his hand, and tugged gently. “i’ll get you a towel,” she said softly, guiding him upstairs to the attic where her room was. she opened the door. “welcome to my room,” she whispered, then slipped into the bathroom, her heart pounding as she grabbed a couple of towels and took a moment to steady herself before coming back out. “here,” she said quietly, handing one to him.

[isaiahking]

Isaiah listened to her with that familiar, steady softness, the kind that came from feeling seen. When she talked about his future family, he smiled in a way that reached his eyes. “I know you would remind me,” he said warmly, confidence tucked into his tone. “And I’d probably need it.” At the mention of her spoiling his kids someday, he let out a quiet laugh, shaking his head. She was so sweet to him and his husband. When he noticed her glance at their hands, his thumb slowed, more intentional than absent-minded. At the mention of Romeo, Isaiah chuckled. “That jacket is practically part of him at this point,” he said, nodding. He could absolutely picture Romeo wearing it anywhere he could get away with it. When she talked about him working with teens, Isaiah laughed again, impressed. “That’s a special kind of patience,” he said. “But it tracks—people always gravitate toward him.” Hearing about the students whispering about her made him smile. “That’s actually really sweet,” he added. “You can tell they respect him… and you.” When she brought up Leo, Isaiah thought fondly about him again. “A leather jacket would be a bold move for him,” he agreed, amused. “But you’re right—he’s a softie. Still,” he added, smiling at her, “some people just pull anything off. Leo’s definitely one of them.” Isaiah didn’t even hesitate—he said it with an easy grin, confidence written all over him. He shrugged like it was the most obvious thing in the world. “Call me selfish or whatever,” he said lightly, eyes warm, “but I think my husband can pull off anything… or nothing. Either or.” He pictured his husband in his fire uniform—the crisp lines, the confidence it carried—and then, almost mischievously, the image of him in… well, nothing at all. A small, private smile tugged at his lips. Blinking, he caught himself and looked back at Skylar, clearing his throat. “Sorry,” he said, a little sheepish but still warm. “Daydreaming.”

[skylargrxy]

skylar was someone who told people nice things all the time, always reminding them how much she cared, because she loved making others feel seen. “of course i will, and i’ll tell them too,” she promised with a smile, letting out a relieved sigh as his thumb traced over her hand, such a small touch enough to slow her thoughts and calm her for a moment. “yeah, i think i’ve gifted him one of those jackets every year since we started dating,” she nodded, smiling softly, knowing romeo wore them everywhere until they eventually had to be replaced. “and i think i have one too, so we can match,” she chuckled. “oh for sure, they respect him, i’m sure he’s a really understanding and cool teacher,” she said confidently. “their respect for me comes because they associate me with him, they’re all taller than me anyway, i’m cool by association,” she joked, shaking her head. skylar agreed with isaiah—leo could pull off anything, her best friend was undeniably handsome. “that’s not selfish, he’s really pretty, he can pull whatever he wants,” she assured. she noticed isaiah go quiet for a second, probably thinking about his husband, and the thought made her cheeks warm. “no, i could tell,” she said softly, shaking her head. “one day you should both come over, we could have dinner and maybe watch a movie or play some board games,” she suggested gently, nodding. “i think it would be nice.”

[leohunter2020]

Leo wasnt the biggest coffee drinker but he would take a cup every now and then just cuz of the company. He knew Sky loved it and so he would have a cup with her. He hated he tase tho " hm... maybe both will make it better?" he suggested tho honestly he had no idea " what do you think? do people order that?" he asked her knowing Sky knew way more about it than him. Leo just figured the more different tastes and sugar, the less coffee taste there would be

[skylargrxy]

skylar closed her eyes at his words, a small, weary smile playing on her lips. "you don't like coffee much anyway," she said, shaking her head as if to clear the fog. "i have so many things in my head right now, i'm sorry leo. i'll just drink yours—my endless pit of a stomach won't be satisfied with just one cup anyway," she chuckled. she leaned against the counter, her expression softening as she talked shop. "but yeah, people love ordering their coffee with all those different syrups. i make them myself at the shop so they're not packed with chemicals and fake shit. sugar? for sure. but not the other junk. and they honestly taste so much better that way," she said with a hint of pride. she looked at him, her gaze warming up. "do you want a hot chocolate instead?" she asked, already moving toward the stove. "that's much more your style."

[romeo--thowlett]

Romeo’s eyes softened as he held her, the playful sparkle in them mixing with genuine warmth. “Hey,” he murmured, brushing a wet strand of hair behind her ear again, letting his thumb linger against her cheek. “You didn’t need to make an entrance into my life —you've already made one just by showing up.” He grinned, bold and teasing, letting her feel the quiet confidence that radiated from him. As her arms wrapped around his neck and she pressed that shy, soft kiss to his lips, Romeo leaned in just slightly, deepening it for the briefest second before pulling back with a teasing glint in his eyes. His fingers tracing gentle circles along her back. He shivered slightly in the water, keeping her steady against him, eyes never leaving hers. Even with the playful teasing and charm, there was honesty in every word, every touch—Romeo was a show-with-actions kind of guy, and in this moment, he was showing her exactly how captivated he already was. He leaned just a little closer, his chest brushing against hers as he held her steady. A sly grin tugged at his lips, eyes glinting with mischief. “Just so you know…” he murmured, voice low and teasing, “I’m not responsible if you get addicted to me being this close.” His voice was teasing, but the way his hands tightened ever so slightly at her waist made it clear he wasn’t joking. “I should probably get us back out of here though, huh?” Without waiting for an answer, he scooped her up effortlessly in his arms, holding her close against his chest. Once they were back on the floor, he gently set her down, keeping her close. He leaned over slightly, tilting her head with a fingertip so that her eyes met his. The playful smirk on his lips softened into something warmer, deeper, and entirely magnetic. "Stop! My heart. You look way too good at looking at me like that."

[skylargrxy]

that night was already etched into her mind: the way they watched her favorite movie, got ice cream, how he asked her to be his girlfriend, and that small moment in the pool. she wouldn’t be able to forget it even if she tried. as she kissed him again, she just wanted to hold onto the warmth and excitement that came with it; it was only the second time it had happened, and her heart raced contentedly. when he pulled away, she felt her cheeks burn red. he was so confident it made her feel calm and relaxed, even though they had just kissed, which was a big deal for skylar. when he leaned closer and whispered those words, her cheeks grew even hotter, and she had to look away, unable to handle the teasing tone and mischief in his voice. she couldn’t answer, too shy to find the words, only gasping softly when his hand tightened at her waist. when he spoke again, she finally looked back at him, but before she could say anything, he scooped her up in his arms, making her let out a faint, surprised scream. “romeo,” she chuckled softly, embarrassed. when her feet touched the cold floor, goosebumps spread across her skin, the wind only making her shiver more. as he leaned in and tilted her chin so she had to look at him, she took a deep breath, feeling too shy once again to properly react to his words. “i-i’m not doing anything,” she whispered, unable to look away with his fingers under her chin. “thanks for tonight,” she added softly, her whole body trembling, “but can we go inside? i’ll get you a towel, you're going to get sick”

[isaiahking]

Isaiah’s chest warmed at Sky’s joke, a small laugh escaping him as he shook his head. Hearing her admit how much his words meant to her, he smiled softly, brushing his thumb across the back of her hand. “I mean it,” he said quietly, voice calm and steady. “I’m really glad you’re in my life, Sky. You make everything lighter… easier. I’m glad Leo’s got you too ,” he said, voice calm but warm. “I know he confides in me a lot, but you’re his right hand girl.” He chuckled at her confession about almost crying while working, leaning back just enough to give her a teasing glance. “Don’t worry—I won’t make you cry too much. But I’m glad it makes you happy. That’s all I want.” When she smiled about Leo being a sweet dad, Isaiah’s own grin widened, eyes crinkling in genuine joy. “We’ll do our best,” he said softly, voice full of warmth. “And we’ll take all the reminders we can get. I’d never turn down a little reassurance.” Isaiah’s gaze softened at her excitement, and he leaned a bit closer. “Ideas for gifts already?” he asked, playful and intrigued, his hand still holding hers. “Sky, you’re going to spoil them rotten. I can already tell.” He laughed lightly, that easy, affectionate sound, watching her animatedly imagine their future. Even in the quiet moments, he kept a gentle thumb rubbing across her hand, letting her know she was seen, appreciated, and entirely at ease in his presence. Isaiah leaned over just slightly, peeking over Sky’s shoulder as his coworker took a sip of their drink, making sure no one was listening in. Once he confirmed they were distracted, he leaned back toward Sky with a mischievous grin, wiggling his eyebrows like he’d just let her in on a secret. “So,” he murmured, voice low and teasing, “Romeo. Tell me about him.” He tilted his head, eyes glinting with curiosity and amusement. “Is he still rocking those leather jackets he looks good in?” Isaiah let out a soft laugh, tapping his fingers lightly on the table. Isaiah leaned forward slightly, eyebrows wiggling in that teasing, mischievous way he always did when he was trying to get information. “I was thinking of getting Leo one,” he said, voice low and playful. “Do you think it would suit him?”

[skylargrxy]

skylar was happy she had a friend like isaiah, someone who wasn’t just sweet but who always told the truth. “you’ll be a wonderful family, trust me on that, it’s like i already know it,” she smiled, “and i’ll make sure to remind you every step of the way, trust me on that, isaiah.” she nodded warmly. “and i’m going to get your kids so much stuff,” she added, smiling, “of course i’ll spoil them rotten, everything they want, sky will get them,” she said softly, a small chuckle leaving her lips. she glanced down at his hand, his thumb brushing over her skin, and let out a quiet sigh; he always knew how to make her feel comfortable just being herself. she briefly looked at his coworker, trying to figure out what he was staring at, only to realize they were just drinking their coffee, and when her eyes met isaiah’s again, he wiggled his eyebrows at her, making her furrow hers slightly. at the mention of romeo, skylar chuckled, her heart racing just a little. “yeah, he’s still rocking those leather jackets,” she nodded, smiling, “i think he even wore one to your wedding. honestly, i think if there’s something he loves more than me, it’s that jacket.” she laughed softly. “but he’s doing good, he’s working at the high school, with teens, which in my mind is the hardest thing ever, all the brattiness and everything, oof,” she shook her head, “but everyone loves him, which is fair.” she smiled again. “i go to the high school once a week to drop off breakfast, and i hear the teens whispering things like ‘that’s mr. thowlett’s wife,’ and it’s so cute, so i guess they really do love him.” at his question, skylar nodded. “i think leo would look good in a leather jacket, but in my mind he’s such a softie it would be a big change for him,” she said gently, then smiled, “but let’s be honest, leo can look good in everything.”





[isaiahking]

Isaiah’s chest warmed at the sound of her laughter, soft and easy, carrying that lightness he loved so much about her. “A ladder, huh?” he said with a gentle chuckle, shaking his head. “I like that you think ahead." When she admitted she looked for the positive side of things, he smiled softly, the corners of his eyes crinkling. “That’s exactly why I’m glad you’re in my life,” he said, voice quiet but steady, filled with warmth. Her words about being there for him made his chest tighten a little, a tender ache he only reserved for moments like this. “And I’ll always be here for you,” he said, voice steady, the promise carrying an unshakable weight. When the conversation shifted toward children, his whole expression softened, a gentle smile forming, his eyes lighting up with something tender and protective. “And the little moments, like the ones you’re talking about… that’s what I want for us, too." Her quiet compliment—“you’ll be the greatest dad”—made his throat tighten slightly, and he reached for her hand, giving it a soft squeeze. “I’ll do everything I can to deserve that,” he said, eyes locking on hers with unwavering sincerity. "You know,” he began, voice warm and steady, “watching Leo grow into a father… it’s going to be something else. He’s already so patient, so loving, so ridiculously good at making people feel safe.” His eyes softened, full of quiet awe. “I love that man more than I can even put into words. Seeing him with kids… seeing him care the way he cares for me… it’s going to be the most beautiful thing. I just… I can’t wait for him to teach, to guide, to joke around, to be that dad that makes them feel like the world is theirs. And I’ll be right there, making sure he knows just how incredible he already is.”

[skylargrxy]

talking to isaiah was so easy, she could be herself, she didn't feel nervous, she didn't feel pressure or anxiety, he was a kind soul who made her feel so at peace. “of course, sometimes tall people can be too short for something,” she joked. hearing he was glad she was in his life made her heart beat faster—those words were so nice and kind that she was extremely happy to hear them. “you’re going to make me cry and i'm working,” she mused, squeezing his hand back. she wasn’t dramatic, people telling her those kinds of things made skylar feel so loved and so happy she couldn’t express it any other way. hearing how excited he was about being a dad made skylar smile; she wondered if romeo had told that to his friends as well. “leo is going to be the sweetest dad ever,” she agreed, “you two will, your kids will be so lucky to have you both,” she assured with a smile. “we will make sure to remind him how incredible of a dad he is, don’t worry about it,” she nodded. “you two deserve the most perfect family,” she smiled softly. she let out an excited little scream. “ah, i'm so excited for you,” she chuckled. “oh god, i already have ideas of what i'm going to gift them.”

[romeo--thowlett]

Every tiny movement she made seemed amplified in his mind—the tilt of her head, the way her fingers twitched nervously, the blush blooming across her cheeks. He couldn’t help the grin that tugged at his lips, playful and knowing. “You’re not good with words, huh?” he murmured, his voice low, teasing. “Funny… neither am I. I’m more of a show-with-actions kind of guy.” He let out a small, teasing splash, enough to catch her attention. “I’ll make sure you see just what I mean.” Then, without breaking eye contact, he kicked off the pool wall and glided toward her, cutting through the water like it barely noticed him. “Come on,” he called, voice dripping with charm, “the water’s missing you.” He flicked a splash her way, enough to tease, not soak, watching her laugh—and her startled gasp made his chest tighten in the most delicious way. Then, she stripped down, and jumped right in after him. He kicked through the water, moving with effortless grace toward her. Without breaking eye contact, he reached her, brushing a strand of water-slicked hair from her face. “You always did know how to make an entrance,” he said, voice thick with charm, each word wrapped in something electric. Then, bold as the heat in her cheeks, he let his hands slide around her waist, steadying her as she laughed, teasing, breathless. “Estatic. I’ve been waiting for this,” he admitted, a low laugh vibrating through the water. He pulled her legs around his waist, the movement easy, natural, as if they’d been made to fit this way. “Now tell me,” he said, leaning close enough that his lips almost brushed hers, eyes tracing her every movement, that teasing grin still tugging at his lips. "how could I make tonight a night that sticks in your mind forever?”

[skylargrxy]

saying she was nervous was an understatement, she was incredibly nervous in the best way; he was there, shirtless, being unbelievably charming and sweet to her in a way no one had ever been, and how was she supposed to stay calm? and him admitting he was a show-with-actions kind of guy only made her believe him more—sometimes an action was worth a million words. he seemed so comfortable, just swimming in her pool as if he did that every single day. she was as nervous as she'd felt all night, but when he asked her to jump, she did. she was nervous she had practically stripped down for romeo on their first date—they had been dating for a couple of hours and she was already jumping into a pool with him in her underwear as if it was something she did all the time. her arms and legs worked to keep her on the surface as he moved closer, brushing a strand of wet hair from her face; her bangs were flat against her forehead. "i wasn't trying to make an entrance," she said softly, "i just jumped." her eyes never left his as his hands wrapped around her waist, and she felt like her lungs betrayed her, like she had forgotten how to breathe. "not for too long, you didn’t know about the pool until five minutes ago," she chuckled nervously. as he gently pulled her legs around his waist she felt her cheeks burn even more, if that was humanly possible. his words filled her stomach with butterflies. "i-i... you’ve already made tonight stick in my mind," she stuttered. she let out a sigh as her arms wrapped around his neck, one hand sliding into his damp hair, and she got brave and closed the practically nonexistent distance, pressing the lightest, softest kiss to his lips.

[leohunter2020]

Sky and Leo - Coffee?

Leo had been working on himself a lot lately, work still wasnt the same after he had been away for so long, but Leo couldn't pinpoint what it was that made it feel so different. But that did not matter cuz all he wanted right now was to spend some quality time with his best friend

" Sky, noooo, thats way too much sugar. I dont think the coffee will get any better by adding loads of sugar," he said with a soft laugh as they were trying to make a coffee Leo would actually enjoy. He could drink a cup of coffee every now and then, but it was so far from a go to favorite drink. " i swear, if you add more things to it, it wont be considered coffee anymore." Leo laughed.

[skylargrxy]

the twins were asleep, and romeo was busy correcting exams and projects for his class, so when leo said he wanted to meet, she didn’t hesitate to invite him over. if there was one thing skylar loved, it was her coffee — she worked at a coffee shop, and after months of limiting herself during pregnancy, she was thrilled to finally enjoy it again. “but this is the best coffee i can make you,” she chuckled, “if i could, i’d get an iv just to have it in my system forever.” she smiled, holding the cup. “i like it with vanilla — want to try adding some? or maybe caramel, it might mask the bitterness?”