Summary: Ella is having a... less than amazing day. It turns out Gwilym is just what she needed to turn it around though.
Warnings: underage drinking i know bad dont do it im sorry
[A/N]: Okay so I know this is technically before Macarons and Spoiled Surprises but it’s been bothering me for months that I never wrote the middle step between our first date and us doing... y’know, you’ve read it i hope. So yeah, this is that middle step. Half inspired by an actual shit day I had, half inspired by my better half having had a bad day the day I wrote this. Enjoy and feedback is always welcome!! Also thank you thank you thank you to my best fren Mic @o-holynight for making me another amazing header just for this fic you’re so good to me and if you haven’t yet go through her masterlist because it slaps
It was a crappy day. It was pouring, which normally I wouldn't mind—in fact I loved a good rainy day—but I had opened my window the night before and woken up to find my desk soaked in rain water and one of my notebooks with it.
"Ahhh shit," I muttered to myself as I woke up and climbed out of bed at the sound of the rain hitting the desk. I quickly latched the thing closed and looked down at the crinkling wet paper that was my notebook, picking it up by a corner and watching the water slide off the cover and off the pages. "Shhhhhit," I repeated, feeling my heart sink when I opened the cover and noticed the ink either bleeding into the other pages or sliding off along with the water. At least I didn't really use it, I thought. It was still sad to see something that I'd paid for just... Fall apart like this though.
I dropped it into the trash bin with a sigh and vowed to start getting ready to go out and buy a new one. Right after I have breakfast, I thought. As it turns out, there was no breakfast. No cereal, no pancake mix or frozen waffles. It was grocery day and Michaela had just left saying she was going to grab Joe so they could do the shopping for both at once.
Okay so I'll go out for breakfast, I decided.
Except the coffee shop was closed. Again, no big deal but... It was another block in the freezing rain to the nearest cafe. It was too close to drive, especially because there was no parking down by it. Walking it is then. The sidewalk was slick with the freezing rain and the leftovers from the last snow so I tried my best to watch my steps and still maintain a quick pace.
Needless to say I almost slipped—I didn't thankfully—but I caught myself at the last second in such a way that my umbrella swung out to the side and in an instant I felt drenched to the bone. I walked in looking like a half-drowned rat, ordered a muffin to go and tried to calm my anxious heart at the stares I was getting from the other patrons. In case you were wondering, yes, it's possible to angrily eat a muffin.
After I made it back to my car I drove to the nearest Staples and practically moaned as the warm rush of air hit my chilled face and body. I picked out a cute notebook—for sixteen fucking dollars, jesus Staples, cost more yeah?—and slapped it on the counter. The younger looking kid checking me out started at the noise but just smiled and asked if I wanted to join their rewards program.
And then I was stood under the edge of the Staples sign trying to desperately shove the notebook in my jacket against my chest because what was once pouring rain had turned into a torrential downpour. It was like a sheet of water coming down at once while thunder boomed in the distance. I held an arm across my coat-covered-notebook and took a deep breath, readying myself for the sheer force of it to pound against the top of my umbrella.
By the time I got back to the dorm my legs up to my knees were soaked even despite my rain boots, as was the back of my coat and my umbrella. The notebook somehow survived the trip thankfully. As I was pulling it out of my jacket my phone buzzed in my coat pocket. A text from Mic.
Hey, over at the boys' and groceries are all put away
Is Gwil home? I might head over in a bit. Having a shit day :(
Aw im sorry :( he is tho I think. I'll ask
I waited a few seconds and then waited for the three dots while she typed.
He isn't but he's coming home in like half an hour from a reading
"Nice," I whispered to myself. Finally, something good today.
Im gonna shower. When he gets home tell him I'm coming?
Yeah ofc
I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, glad to finally have something to look forward to. I took off my jacket and hung it on my door to dry before walking into the bathroom and peeling off my soaked jeans and socks, letting them sit on the floor while I turned the shower to scalding hot. I hissed as it hit my back but quickly adjusted to it, letting the water pooling at the bottom thaw my toes. I picked up my razor with a little indecision. He wasn't even going to see my legs or my armpits as far as I was planning, let alone anywhere near my underwear... I shaved anyway. As a way to pass time in the warm water at the least, and at the most it would make my sheets feel nice later.
I got dressed in some loose sweats and a tank top, foregoing a bra with the assumption I was the only one home but when I came out of my room Sarah was back from her class eating at the table.
"Hey!" She said with a smile.
"Hey," I said back quietly, walking to the cupboard and pulling down a bag of chips. "How was class?"
"Ugh, don't even get me started. That dude was still trying to argue with the professor the entire class," she explained, rolling her eyes.
"Someone should keep a tally of every time he says something and then at the end of class take that many points off his latest paper or something," I offered with a small grin.
"We should, oh my god," she laughed back. "Hey, are you okay? Mic said you were having a crappy day."
I nodded, shrugging. "Yeah, I dont know it's just... A lot of little shit adding up, y'know?"
She nodded with a sad smile.
I took a deep breath and tried to stay positive though. "Good news though, I'm heading over to see the boys in a little bit. Did you wanna come with?"
"Ah, I'm going to meet Ben for lunch after his class gets out in like half an hour."
"Ah," I said in confirmation. "Okay, I'll see you later tonight? We need another girls night in, it's been too long."
She smiled, nodding in agreement. "Yeah, I'll see if I can pick up some stuff beforehand. It's your turn to pick right?"
I nodded, "yeah."
"Okay, cool. Nothing scary please? I like sleeping without nightmares."
I laughed, carrying the chips with me back to my room. "I'll do my best to let you keep your beauty sleep," I said over my shoulder before closing the door.
I sat down on my bed with a sigh, dropping the chips next to me and reaching for my phone.
Gwil just got home, he's in the shower rn tho
Okay tell him im omw and I dont mind waiting or something
I made sure to pull on a sports bra and a sweatshirt before I left, as well as a pair of fuzzy socks inside my rain boots. I was nearly jogging across the street to the apartment, buzzing with excitement to see Gwil.
We haven't been out on any dates since our second when he kissed me, but we had a lot of days where we walked each other to class or we'd get lunch together. Sadly, we hadn't kissed much since then but we made up for it with a lot of hand holding, or his palm on my back, or my hand on his knee and honestly... it was kind of nice just like that. Still, a day like today deserved some serious hugs at the very least.
My frozen fingers shook as I pressed the buzzer and I exhaled in relief when it buzzed again and the lock clicked open, allowing me to rush into the warm elevator and ride up to the apartment. When I got up to the door though, I hesitated.
Do I knock? Do I just walk in? Do I knock and then walk in anyways?
I pulled out my phone and texted Mic.
Im outside the door
Come in lol?
Come open it I feel weird
Between the previous cold and my embarrassment I'm sure my cheeks were tomato-red. She just smiled upon seeing me, waiting for me to take off my dripping boots and then motioning her head toward the couch.
"Gwil's probably getting out soon, you can wait with me and Joe on the couch," she explained, sitting back down next to Joe to watch whatever movie they had playing on the TV. I perched awkwardly on the edge of the cushion, trying—and failing—to control my bouncing knee while I waited for Gwil.
"Hey."
I almost jumped at the soft greeting, springing off the couch and turning to him. My heart was thumping in my chest nervously.
He was just in sweats and a t-shirt but something about it was just so… hot. I hadn't noticed how shaggy his hair was getting until now, still dripping wet and hanging over his forehead a little. I almost missed when he jerked his thumb over his shoulder.
"Do you wanna… my room?" He asked awkwardly.
I nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah- sure yeah."
I followed quietly behind him as he walked down the hall, stepping into the room and waiting for him to close the door. Then I was stuck just watching while he moved to sit on the edge of his bed with a bounce. I pressed my lips together to suppress an awkward smile, looking around his room. He had different playbills taped up on his wall above his bed, and his desk was covered in papers and packets and textbooks.
"So…" I started, bringing my eyes back to face him.
"So…" he mimicked back, a gentle smile growing on his face.
I breathed out a little laugh and moved to sit next to him on the edge of his mattress, copying his bounce from before and then bumping my shoulder into his.
"So how was your reading? How did it go?" I asked lightly, trying to start some sort of conversation, any conversation.
"Good! It was good," he answered back.
And then more quiet.
"Okay this is awful," I admitted before I could stop the words from coming out of my mouth.
Gwil's eyebrows shot up in surprise, like he couldn't believe I was saying it.
"Can we just like… I don't know, can we just watch something on your laptop or something? I just…" I blew out a quick breath and started to feel my eyes burn with tears I'd been holding in. "I've had a really shitty day and I was so excited to come over and see you and I don’t want it to be all... weird like it is."
He was quiet for a second, which gave me some time to calm back down a little and not actually shed tears.
"You're right," he sighed, running his fingers through his hair. "Okay, why don't we… Do you have something in mind to watch?"
It was my turn to raise my eyebrows. "I mean I… what do you normally watch? What's your favorite show?"
It seemed to do the trick, the tension slowly released its grip on the room and we even managed to move back on his bed so he was positioned laying against his pillows and I was tucked neatly under his arm, half laying on his stomach. We'd agreed on Criminal Minds and somehow watched our way through two entire episodes before we forgot it all together and started talking… and then, well, kissing.
It started off innocent enough. I'd turned my head to joke about Spencer's hair in this season but instead found Gwil already looking at me with a soft smile.
"What?" I laughed.
He just gave a full smile and shook his head. "Nothing."
We were both quiet for a second, and then he leaned in and gave me a peck on the lips.
Oh.
I smiled back and leaned back into him, pressing my lips to his again but longer this time, slower, lingering…
We pulled back slowly, eyes still half closed. And then I felt the slightest squeeze of his hand on my waist and he surged forward again, lips firmly against mine, his tongue teasing across my bottom lip before biting gently.
Oh.
I hummed in appreciation, leaning further against him until my leg hooked in between his and his hand was sliding up my back into my hair and grabbing lightly.
My heart was racing in my chest. Was this it? Was I going to fuck him not 50 feet from our friends? Why am i even thinking that? Calm the hell down.
I practically had to force myself to pull away, my fist still twisted in his shirt, still breathing heavily and close enough to be tempted to go back but I made myself stop.
"We have to… we should just slow down a little," I said quietly.
Gwil nodded in agreement. "Yeah. Yeah you're right we should just… take it easy for a bit."
I nodded back.
Still, we somehow gravitated towards each other again until we were kissing again, albeit softer this time. Somehow we managed to keep it slow. Calm. Instead of dipping back into... dangerous territory. It was just… nice.
It was comforting and reassured a lot of doubts I had. It was almost like a little dance, like a conversation. He'd lean forward and catch my lip with his teeth and in return I'd slide my tongue against his lip. It was jarring when suddenly everything went quiet and we both pulled apart in question only to see Netflix asking if we were still watching.
I laughed a little which seemed to make Gwil laugh which made me laugh more and snort and then he laughed more until we were both clutching our stomachs gasping for air in between laughs. Once we'd finally calm down we were left just staring at each other, not waiting for the other to talk, just looking at each other's faces and smiles and eyes.
"Y'know I was having a pretty crappy day and you made it a hell of a lot more bearable," I said honestly.
"I'm happy I could make your day better," he answered back, his smile wide.
I paused for a minute, contemplating saying anything. "Is it… is it weird if I really like making out with you?"
He shook his head quickly, "no! No of course not. I'm glad my skills were… put to good use." His smile turned smug.
I shoved his chest jokingly, turning in his grasp like I was going to roll away. I grinned when his hand fell to my hip and pulled me back in against him so his mouth was slotted against mine.
"Where do you think you're going?"
"To find someone with better lines I guess," I laughed.
"Are you saying you don't like my pick up lines?" He fake pouted, lips puckered out and all.
I gave him a quick kiss. "That's exactly what I'm saying." I laughed again when he dramatically flopped against the bed like he couldn't believe it. I kissed his jaw sweetly, turning it into a raspberry which made him laugh.
"Careful there, I don't need any weirdly placed hickies," he warned with a grin.
"So just for clarification, you don't want a big hickey on your cheek?" I asked, pretending to get ready to mark his cheek.
"Definitely not."
"Hmm," I hummed in mock disappointment. "And I had such plans too."
"Yeah, I'm sure," he said back, turning his head to face me and tucking a piece of hair behind my ear. He slowly leaned in and gave me another peck on the lips, and then another… and then one more. "You know, I'm really glad you came over."
I smiled back at him. "Me too."
We were quiet once again, just staring at each other again, every once in a while saying some small comment or joke or compliment but otherwise quiet. After a little bit, just when I was starting to feel sleepy, there was a quiet knock on the door.
"Come in," Gwil answered.
Michaela poked her head in after a second with a small smile. "Hey, I was just going to head back, it's almost six," she said softly.
"Oh Jesus, is it really?" I asked in surprise, picking up my phone to see texts from Sarah asking when I'd be back home. "Damn," I laughed slightly.
"Yeah, Sarah said you wanted to do a night in so do you wanna go to the store before home?"
I nodded, slowly untangling myself from Gwil and sitting up, stretching out my muscles. "Yeah, I'll be out in a few minutes, I gotta get the feeling back in my legs," I chuckled.
"Okay, I'll go pull on my shoes."
I stretched out each of my arms and legs, turning awkwardly to stretch my spine before I sighed, turning back to face a very tired looking Gwilym. "Hi."
"Hi," he grinned back, briefly stretching his back before relaxing back against his pillows. "Before you go, come here."
I grinned and leaned back in, our lips connecting for a long, sweet kiss. "Was that all?" I asked after it ended.
"No, one more," he smirked, pulling me back in for another peck. "Okay one more," and then another peck, "just one more-"
"Gwil," I laughed in between kisses. "I- gotta- go- you big dork-"
He gave a big dramatic sigh after the last kiss when I stood up away from him. "Fine, if you must."
"I must," I grinned. "Sorry bub."
"No it's okay," he relented with a smile. "I'll see you on Saturday, right? You're still coming over to hang out?"
I nodded. "Of course, I can't wait." I was reluctant to leave him, looking so soft and inviting and ready for a nap… I forced myself to walk out and close the door behind me, walking out to the living room to find Mic pulling on her shoes while Joe stood by.
"Hey," I announced, making her look up at me after she had both boots on.
"Hey, ready?"
"Yep, lets go get drunk," I affirmed.
"Woah woah woah," Joe interjected, making me turn to him.
"Sorry dad, was I not supposed to tell you that?" I laughed.
"No drinking and driving young lady, be responsible," he said, pointing a faux serious finger at each of us.
"Sure, yeah, whatever you say," I dismissed with a grin. I turned to Mic, "want anything particular? I was planning on wine and some candy."
She shrugged. "Sounds good to me. Grab me some of the uhh the sour patch watermelon things though? Oh! And Reece's pieces," she grinned at the last second as I was walking out the door.
"You already know," I grinned back, shaking my head and closing the door to let her and Joe do their own little goodbyes.
When I made it back down to the front door, ready to open my umbrella and sprint to my car, I noticed it had stopped raining. It was still wet everywhere and puddles took up half the sidewalk but the once black sky was lightened to a pale gray. Michaela beat me back to the dorm, unsurprisingly and I walked in with full arms, happy to be greeted by Sarah and Mic pulling things out of my hands and already opening things.
"Yesss you got the good shit Ella," Sarah said gratefully, pulling out a bag of m&m's.
"Always," I smiled, pulling out a plastic container of cotton candy for myself.
"Okay so what are we watching?" Sarah asked, already transporting stuff to the couches.
It was obvious the two of them had moved everything for optimal TV viewing.
"I was thinking Umbrella Academy if that's cool?"
They both nodded, mouths already full of candy.
I laughed. "Okay, Umbrella Academy it is then. I'll grab the wine."
Somewhere between the third and fourth episode we'd finished the first bottle of wine and went to open the second only to find it impossible.
"Just… open it," Sarah laughed, watching me trying to use the wine bottle opener to grab the cork and failing.
"I'm trying!" I laughed back, pulling out pieces of cork instead of the entire thing. "Dammit! Mic come help us!" I called.
The TV paused as she came over and looked over the destroyed cork, pushed nearly all the way into the bottle. "Dude what did you even do?!" She chuckled.
"I tried to open it, what do you think!" I laughed back.
"Okay, gimme a spoon, I'll shove it into the bottle."
"What? No take it out!" Sarah laughed.
"I can't! This one-" Mic laughed, pointing at me, "destroyed the cork and now its not gonna come out!"
I was wheezing from laughing so hard, practically laying across the counter. "I'm sorry!"
Sarah laughed at my reaction in response, squatting next to the counter trying to catch her breath as well.
"Fine I'll find a spoon myself!" Mic declared, still laughing while she tried to push down on the cork. "Ahah!" She yelled in triumph making us laugh even harder at the pop of it dropping into the wine.
We ate our way through almost all of the candy and the two bottles of wine over five episodes before we decided to call it a night (or well, early morning but same thing).
It was nice, to go to bed feeling warm and loved and like a crap day had turned good. I fell asleep easily and without resistance, the opposite to how I'd woken up. It was a good day, I decided.
- - -
feedback is always appreciated and thank you for reading lovelies!!
Don’t Start Something You Can’t Finish | All You Have To Do Is Fall In Love AU
Other Parts: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Author: Michaela - @o-holynight
Pairing: Joe Mazzello / OFC
Rating: M
Word Count: 1.6k
POV: 3rd Person / Michaela
Warnings: series warnings
Summary: After being interrupted in the middle of an intimate moment, Joe and Michaela reschedule for another night home alone.
Masterlist found here!
Series Summary: Best friends and college roommates Ben, Joe, and Gwil, find themselves tangled up with a group of girls who bring out the best (and worst) in them.
Series Warnings: drinking, swearing
Authors’ Note: Stories can stand alone, but it’s much better when read all together! Not everything is always in the same tense, or same point of view/perspective.
Joe fiddled with his ring finger, before absentmindedly cracking his knuckles. He glanced over at Michaela who was engrossed in the movie. It was some random thriller on Joe’s Netflix list, but whatever interest he had in watching it before, all melted away once he pressed play and started watching Michaela instead of the TV. She was so intrigued by the movie, which made studying her all the more intriguing. He could tell when something scary happened on the screen by the way that she jumped slightly, muscles in her neck tensing. He could tell when a scene was comic relief by the way the corners of her mouth turned up, and she exhaled a laugh through her nose. But when the main characters of the movie were entering a heated makeout session while unbeknownst to them, their friends were being slaughtered in the next room, Michaela happened to look over at Joe, whose eyes flitted for the first time in a long time to the television.
“You’re staring.” Michaela said with a smirk on her face.
“Oh, really, you wait until the sex scene to call me out on it? All of a sudden you look over at me when that comes on the screen?” Joe said, gesturing to the tv.
Michaela blushed and bit her lip sheepishly. Joe took notice of this, eyes flicking down to watch her newly reddened and glistening lip. He swallowed roughly, wanting nothing more than to connect his own lips with hers.
“Okay you got me there, but despite being a blind ass bitch, my peripherals are on point. I saw you looking the whole time.” she smirked, turning her body slightly so that she was facing Joe more.
“And you chose to wait until the main characters started kissing to bust me...why?” Joe asked, also angling himself more towards Michaela, squeezing his hand together in a fist.
“No reason…” she said softly, barely audible, as her eyes focused in on Joe’s lips, which were slightly parted, and moving closer as Joe leaned forward ever so slightly.
“C’mon mate the game is about to start and I’ve got money down on--oh...sorry are we...interrupting something?” Gwil said as he and Ben marched into the living room decked out in their soccer gear, apparently waiting to watch the game.
Clearly they were interrupting something. “No, you’re fine, we weren’t watching a movie or anything.” Joe said through a pasted-on smile, begrudgingly backing up from the almost-kiss.
“I mean…” Ben looked from Joe to Michaela, as if weighing the pros and cons. “The movie will still be there later, but the football game is live, mate.” he said, almost wincing at his statement, essentially telling the two lovebirds to take a hike.
“Fine, great, we’ll just leave then.” Joe said, leaning back into the couch, exhaling angrily at the situation.
“No I really should be going anyway. Got a project I need to finish compiling for studio tomorrow. It’s fine.” Michaela said, smiling at the two other boys as she stood up and reached for Joe’s hand, pulling him off of the couch and down the small hallway to the door.
Ben and Gwil quickly occupied the couch and turned on the soccer game, with the crowd roaring at the start of the match.
“I’m really sorry about them,” Joe apologized as Michaela reached for the doorknob to open the door.
“Don’t be sorry, I still had a great time with you today.” she replied genuinely.
“Could’ve made it a better time.” Joe grumbled under his breath, rubbing the back of his neck and staring at the floor, disappointed that the moment had passed.
“There’s always next time…” Michaela said, rubbing Joe’s knuckles with her thumb while she still held onto his hand.
“Trust me, the next time I see you, I’m gonna rock your goddamn world.” Joe said, a spark igniting again in his eyes.
“Is that a promise, Mazzello?” Michaela answered back, matching his excited intensity.
“You better fucking believe it.” he said, raising his eyebrows with a devilish grin as he pushed up off of the doorway, and backed into his apartment, closing the door between them for dramatic effect.
“So...tomorrow night? Knock twice for yes.” Michaela projected through the door.
Two knocks came sharply, and she grinned, turning around and walking back to her car with a spring in her step.
---------------------
I took a deep breath and stepped up to the door of Joe’s apartment. Tonight was the night that Joe and I would probably kiss. It had been a week or so since we officially met in his kitchen. Since yesterday we hadn’t spoken much about what almost happened, only texted about the details confirming our plans for today. I was coming over for dinner, and to continue the movie we were cut short on yesterday. As well as the other thing we were interrupted on. I wasn’t sure if I would even be able to eat anything, my stomach was so full of butterflies. But I mustered up the courage and knocked twice. He was probably in the kitchen prepping for dinner, so he opened the door almost immediately.
“Hey baby,” he said, pulling me into a hug with one arm, as the other hand was holding a wooden spoon. I blushed at the nickname, which sounded so sweet coming from his mouth.
“What’s with the uh--” I gestured to the blue checkered apron that he was wearing, holding back a chuckle.
“Oh you know, didn’t want to get pasta sauce on my nice clean shirt. Plus, it makes me look sexy, no?” This time I let out the chuckle. He was wearing a nice white button down, sleeves rolled up to his elbows to avoid splash back from the tomato sauce.
“That’s quite a bold move, cooking sauce with a white shirt on.” I said, entering the kitchen, smelling the sauce bubbling on the stove.
“You’re right. I should just strip down now, much safer.” he said with a wink, making me blush once again.
“And she stepped on the ball.” Joe said, concluding his story, as we had moved to the couch after dinner.
“Wow, that sure is something,” I said in between laughs. “Thanks for the wine by the way. It really classes things up.” I sipped on my white wine, thankful that we had talked about alcohol preferences already when we were getting to know each other.
“Don’t thank me, thank Ben. It’s his.” Joe said jokingly. While Ben was the one who bought it, Joe specifically requested it for this occasion.
“Thanks Ben!” I called to the apartment.
“No use, he’s not home.” Joe said, setting his wine glass down on the coffee table. “Neither is Gwil.”
I took a deep breath, also setting down my glass, though I really just wanted to grip onto it for dear life. “Well then, please make sure to thank him for me when he returns…” I said, voice quivering a bit.
“Oh I will.” Joe said, voice also different. It was about an octave deeper than I had ever heard it before. He inched closer to me, placing a hand on my thigh. This caused me to inhale sharply, looking up at him over the rims of my glasses. I bit my lower lip nervously. That’s when Joe leaned in and placed a gentle kiss on my lips. It was chaste and sweet, and when I didn’t react by getting up and running away, he pressed his lips to mine once again. His hand moved up my thigh, onto my waist, pulling me closer to him as he deepened the kiss, parting my lips with his tongue. I allowed him access, feeling our tongues running over each other’s, feeling his quickening breath on my cheeks. Suddenly, his other hand grabbed my far thigh, and pulled me into a straddling position on his lap.
“Wait, wait--” I said breathlessly.
“What? What’s wrong? Did I put too much garlic in the sauce? Is this terrible for you?” He asked, frowning comically.
“No, that’s not it,” I laughed, placing a hand on his chest and swallowing for a moment. His heart was pounding, as was mine. “It’s just...I’ve never...done this before.” I admitted, looking down, avoiding his gaze.
“Never done what, make out before? Well you’re pretty damn good at it.” Joe said, rubbing his hands up and down the outside of my thighs.
“No, I’ve...I’ve never had sex before.” I said, whispering the last part.
“Well honey, this ain’t it…” Joe laughed, trying to make eye contact with me, who was still avoiding his eyes.
“Yeah but...it’s getting there.” I said, placing my hand pointedly on the bulge in the front of his pants, which I was dangerously close to sitting directly on.
“Ooh, fuck, don’t start something you can’t finish now…” he inhaled sharply through gritted teeth, eyelids fluttering shut as his head lolled back a bit onto the couch.
“I know, I know,” I said, retracting my hand apologetically. “I want to, it’s just...it’s a long story, I just don’t exactly want to get into it right now…”
“Michaela, don’t worry about it. I’m not gonna make you do anything you don’t want to do.” he said sweetly, moving his hands up to my back, rubbing gently to calm me down.
“I mean...I want to do this…” I said, placing my arms around his neck, playing gently with the hair at the nape of his neck.
“Well, let’s fucking do it then.” he said, leaning back in to kiss me once more, but stopped short. “I mean...make out, y’know. Not like, DO IT do it, I just mean, like--”
“Shut up and kiss me Joey.” I laughed at his nervous bumbling, before pulling his head forward and kissing his still parted lips.
Oh, I’m In Trouble | All You Have To Do Is Fall In Love AU
Author: Sarah - @godyouredull
Pairing: Ben Hardy / OFC
Rating: T
Word Count: 6.2k
POV: Sarah
Warnings: series warnings, aggressive frat guys
Summary: Sarah makes a risky decision at a frat party and is overwhelmingly pleased with the outcome.
Masterlist found here!
Series Summary: Best friends and college roommates Ben, Joe, and Gwil, find themselves tangled up with a group of girls who bring out the best (and worst) in them.
Series Warnings: drinking, swearing
Authors’ Note: Stories can stand alone, but it’s much better when read all together! Not everything is always in the same tense, or same point of view/perspective.
How do I always get talked into going to these things? Within 15 minutes of arriving to a frat house, whose name I never remember for more than 5 seconds, I immediately regret it. Truly the best part of going out like this is getting ready with the girls so we can come up with a game plan while blaring the same obnoxious pop music. But, inevitably, every time I step out the door I immediately contemplate walking back inside. Oh well, no use wasting a cute as fuck outfit I suppose. And hey there’s free alcohol, right? Right.
“Hey!” Ella snaps me out of my thoughts, “You’re not gonna leave early tonight, are you? I hate when you do that.”
“No,” I sigh dejectedly, “I’ll stay long enough to get drunk but seriously Ella, as soon as you have a target in sight, you tell me, okay?”
“I know, I know. I won’t abandon you without warning.” She says as she links her arm in mine. “NOW, let’s get drinks.”
We walk arm in arm out to the back deck, where the ever flowing amount of alcohol seems to always be, accompanied by the obnoxious shouts and whoops of the household residents. It’s the usual scene: beer pong table, keg, random lawn chairs and a good amount of handles on the dirtiest table you’ll see in your life.
“Alright well, what’ll it be? Lukewarm beer or liquor without a mixer?’ I ask in the most enthusiastic voice I can muster.
“Complain all you want. You’re not paying for it, are you?” She’s got a point. I’m still trying to decide if it’s worth it though. “Stop complaining and tap the keg.”
“I love it when you get demanding.”
“You have no idea.” She says half laughing.
“Alright, pipe down. There’s options out here.” She begins to scout the talent while I look around for the tap. How has this keg not been tapped yet?
“Whoa. They’re kind of cute.” She points to a team of guys playing beer pong. They are cute. The one with darker hair is definitely the more outgoing of the two, getting way too excited when he makes the next shot with ease. His partner though, has blonde hair and seems to just be along for the ride, maybe even sober.
“They’re alright.” I say, trying to play it off. At the same moment, the blonde looks around the yard, clearly getting bored with the beer pong game. When his eyes land on me, though, he doesn’t look away but… neither do I.
“He’s staring at you.” I hear Ella whisper. Of course, I’m aware of this as I’m blatantly staring right back. Damn, he’s good looking. “Go talk to him.”
“No, no. He’s a frat dude, Ella. You know that’s not my thing.” I finally tear my eyes away from cute blonde boy to focus on the task at hand: keg tapping. As I line the notches of the tap with the hole of the keg, a voice stops me.
“Need some help with that?” Some part of me hopes it’s cute blonde boy, but when I look up, that hope disappears. It’s not cute blonde boy, just another generic frat guy.
“Uh, no thank you. I can handle it.” Now go away.
“You sure? No offense but these things have a tendency to explode whenever a girl tries to tap it.” Jesus. Where the hell is Ella?
I scoff and contemplate punching him. Instead, I screw the tap into place and push down, sliding it into place. Grabbing a solo cup, I pour myself a pint and stare at this douchebag straight in the eye until the cup is completely full.
“Nope, I think I got it.”
“Wow, impressive.”
“Okay, I’m walking away now.” I manage to take about two steps before I feel his grip around my elbow.
“Whoa, whoa. Hang on a second.” He spins me around so I’m facing him again. Maybe I am going to punch someone tonight. This is truly the last time I come to a frat party.
“I have to go find my friend actually. She was right next to me a second ago.” My eyes scan the room, searching desperately for Ella who I may or may not need to come rescue me from this asshole.
“What’s your name?” He asks, ignoring my previous statement.
“Could you not grip my arm when you’re talking to me?” I try to twist my arm out of his grip but he’s unfortunately much stronger than I am.
“Someone ought to teach you some manners, sweetheart.” His lips are inches from my ear and I immediately push him off.
“You’re one to talk you fucking assho— “
“HEY,” Another voice chimes in, “Pretty sure she doesn’t want to talk to you, mate.” Holy shit. It’s cute blonde boy. He’s stepped in between me and the jackass, arm held out in front of me as if to create some kind of protective barrier. A couple bystanders have begun to notice the situation and watch to see if these guys start throwing fists.
“Alright, whatever, she’s all yours.” The jackass walks away with his hands up in surrender. Thank God. If there had really been a fight I’m not sure what I would’ve done.
Once he’s gone, cute blonde boy turns around to face me.
“Hey, hear that? How kind of him to hand me over like that. We were really hitting it off too.” I say sarcastically. He laughs.
“You okay?” Whoa. He’s got a deep, British accent.
“Yeah, yeah I’m fine. Thank you for that. I wish I could say that’s the first or last time that’s bound to happen.”
“It’s not something you should have to get used to.” He sounds genuine. Interesting. “I’m not sure why I keep coming to these parties. All these guys are the worst.”
“You’re not one of them?” The plot thickens. He looks slightly offended at the question.
“Do I come off as one?”
“Well, it’s hard to say.” I can’t help it; I smile. “We just met.” He smiles back.
“Right, yeah. That’s fair.” He looks down and brings his fingers up to his bottom lip and pinches it between his thumb and pointer finger. Damn he’s cute.
“And you do have that classic frat look, you know? Kinda hot, kinda douchey.” He looks up again. Shit.
“So you think I’m hot?” Damn.
“And douchey, lest we forget that part.” I say as I accusingly point at him. He doesn’t respond, just laughs. His eyes are so green. I’m staring again. Okay, take a sip of your beer, Sarah.
“Eugh. That’s a little too lukewarm for my taste.” I say as I set the cup down on a nearby table. Which is partially true but mostly I’m just trying to keep the conversation going.
“Well, we could always go somewhere else.” He suggests.
“Uh, well I think this is pretty much the extent of the drink choices.” I say, gesturing to the disgusting table with various handles. Maybe I will just switch to liquor if I’m gonna spend any more time with cute blonde boy.
“Oh, no I mean we could get out of here. Leave the party.” He says casually.
“Whoa whoa, easy. I don’t even know your name.” He’s already asking me back to his place?
“NO n—I didn’t mean... like we can find a bar or take a walk or something.” He stutters through the suggestion, his cheeks turning a bit pink. I stay silent and smile at his slight embarrassment. “I’m Ben, by the way.”
“It’s nice to meet you, Ben. And I actually would love to leave this place.” Where the HELL is Ella? “Have you seen my friend though? She was standing with me earlier.”
“Earlier? Like when you were shamelessly staring at me playing beer pong?” His tongue sticks out of his mouth ever so slightly as he smiles and it’s the cutest thing I’ve ever seen. My jaw drops.
“Excuse me! I’m pretty sure it was you staring at me.”
“Sure, sure.” He mumbles.
“Plus you were barely even playing. Your friend seemed to be carrying most of the weight there.” I accuse him.
“Yeah, well I get bored at these things easily, hence my wanting to go somewhere else.”
“These parties do get old quick, I’ll give you that.” I pause, looking at him intently while wondering if I’m really gonna leave with a man I just met. He did just save me from a frat douchebag and for some reason I find myself trusting him.
“So, are you really up for ditching it?”
“I really am. Let me just find my friend first and let her know.”
We both do a quick scan of the room before finding her engrossed in a game of pong. She’s in her element. A couple of guys are watching her as she downs a beer like it’s no problem.
“Ella!” I walk towards her, Ben following behind me.
“Sarah! Be my partner! We could destroy these assholes.”
“You’re not wrong but I actually came to check on you. I think I’m gonna head out.”
“What?! You’re leaving?”
“Well,” I look behind me to make sure Ben isn’t too close. “Remember that blonde guy who was staring at me earlier? I’m leaving with him.” Her eyes widen. She steals a glance at him, standing a good length away talking to another one of his friends.
“Well, damn girl.” She looks at him again.
“Ella, stop! Don’t be obvious.”
“Oh, don’t flatter yourself.” She’s still looking in their direction. “Who’s his friend? I think he’s in my philosophy class.” I follow her gaze to see Ben talking somewhat intensely to another tall, dark haired guy who looks way too sophisticated to be at a frat house.
“I don’t know. He’s cute though.” I admit. She continues to stare at the friend, eyebrows slightly raised.
“I’ll say.”
“Alright, down girl.” We laugh. “Are you good? Will you be okay without me?”
“Yeah! Go be with surfer boy.” She clears her throat. “He’s coming. Be cool.” We both adjust our stance so we’re standing up a little straighter.
“You ready?” Ben is suddenly right behind me, hand on the small of my back.
“Yeah let’s go.” I turn back to Ella. “Hey! Call me if you need me.” She nods and makes obscene gestures as I walk out with Ben.
“Her name’s Ella?” He asks.
“Yeah, why?”
“My mate was just asking me about her. Thinks she’s cute or something.” I laugh knowingly. Looks like Ella’s in for a good time tonight too.
“Wait, before we leave…” I stop him from walking any further.
“What?”
“Wait here. I’m gonna steal a handle.”
“You’re gonna—what?” His accent is so strong. Even the way he says ‘what’ is hot.
“Wait here!” I exclaim as I walk back onto the back deck. Tonight wasn’t the night to wear a velvet crop top. Looks like I’m gonna improvise. Doing another quick scan of the options, I spot a larger handle of Fireball on a small table in the corner. That’ll work, but how will I hide it? Can’t hide it. Alright, Plan B then.
Grabbing the handle as quickly as possible, I tuck it under my arm and speed walk to where I left Ben.. Grabbing his hand with my free one, I urge him.
“C’mon let’s go!”
“Wait wha—I—okay.” He stutters but follows my motions as we briskly walk out of the house as fast as we can without looking too suspicious. Luckily, it’s a mess inside the house so if anyone notices, they don’t stop us. We make it out the front door and he’s laughing in a confused manner, our hands still linked.
“Mission accomplished.” I say, holding up the Fireball as we walk down the street.
“Fireball? You smuggled Fireball.”
“The classics never go out of style, Benjamin.” I defend my liquor of the choice.
“It’s just Ben.”
“It’s not.”
“What do you mean it’s not?” His voice raises an octave but he chuckles.
“If we’re going to be friends you’re gonna have to get used to me calling you by your full name. It’s my thing.”
“You’re really gonna call me that?” He says in mild disbelief.
“Only in certain situations.” Now I’m laughing. This whole situation is weird. I’m walking down a random street, holding hands with a guy I just met, with a handle of Fireball tucked under my arm.
“You know I still don’t know your name” He points out.
“Uh... They call me Trixie on the weekends.” I joke, not sure if I should really give him my real name.
“Wait wh— “
“Yeah it’s a tough line of work but the money’s good.” I say as deadpan as I possibly can. He stops walking.
“Are you joking?” His eyes squint a bit as he asks. I take this opportunity to drop his hand and open the Fireball, taking a swig as I start laughing.
“Yes,” He shakes his head, “But you almost believed me, didn’t you? I like that. I’m Sarah.”
“I think I’m still gonna call you Trixie.” He’s still shaking his head but he starts walking again. “Pass that over.”
“I think I’m more of a Trixie, honestly.” I say as I hand him the bottle. I want to hold his hand again but that’s weird, right? Probably not a good idea. If I’m being honest what I really want to do is jump him right here in the street but that’s definitely weird. Don’t wanna come off too strong.
“I’m gonna hold your hand again, okay?” He declares, catching me completely off guard.
“Works for me.” I exhale as he links our fingers again. Thank God it’s so dark outside because I am absolutely positive I’m blushing.
“So, Trixie,” He drags out the name. I’m already regretting that bit. “Where to now?”
“Well I think we’re set on drinks,” I say motioning to the full handle, “So, let’s just keep walking? See what we find.”
“Works for me.” He almost whispers. How is one person’s voice so deep?
“Much better than a frat party, right?”
“Well, I don’t know. One good thing came from that party.” He smirks.
We’ve been walking down this random street for a while now and I’m extremely glad I decided to take an Uber to that damn party instead of drive. I’m also glad I wore converse instead of the uncomfortable flats Michaela suggested. It’s been about an hour and Ben’s managed to cover a fairly wide range of topics. He’s not in a fraternity, though one of his roommates, Joe, is, hence his attendance at tonight’s party and quite a few others. He’s studying acting and drama in school and he moved to the U.S. because he thought it would give him a better chance at being successful in the business, but he misses home a lot and travels back as much as he can. Despite being incredibly attractive, he doesn’t seem to use it to his advantage which means my first impression was wrong. He hasn’t let go of my hand nor has he made any attempt to take things much further. Refreshing and I guess kind of infuriating because the more he talks, the further I do want to take it. Damn the brits and their tendencies to be perfect gentlemen.
“Are you hungry at all?” He asks.
“I could eat, yeah.” Oh right, forgot to mention that I haven’t eaten since before the party and I’ve now drank a significant amount of Fireball. I’m playing it off though. I think.
“I only ask because you’re stumbling a little.” Okay, maybe not.
“Right, well this sidewalk isn’t paved very well.”
“I’ve heard Fireball can do that. Put cracks and bumps into pavement and whatnot.” He says sarcastically.
“Benjamin. Was that a joke? You’re making jokes at my expense now.” I accuse as I put my hand on my chest like a 19th century Southern woman. He shrugs.
“I’m just trying to keep up with you. Which is becoming easier because you’re, you know, stumbling.”
This is good, us bantering like this. Everything feels light and a bit less real so there’s no pressure. I find myself hoping we continue this for the rest of tonight. Maybe even tomorrow morning. Damn he’s already got me breaking my rules? Not good. Or maybe good? Ugh.
“Well if you would drink your share of the Fireball, we wouldn’t have this problem.”
“Sarah, it’s Fireball.”
“Oh god, sorry there were no mojitos for me to swipe.” His drink of choice, as I had learned. “I’ll make a mental note for next time.”
“Next time? You plan on stealing alcohol from a frat party again?”
“I think you could talk me into almost anything, Benjamin.” He blushes at this and stutters a little bit, like he’s thinking about what exactly he wants to talk me into. Good.
“Except I didn’t talk you into this! You did that all on your own.”
“Uh huh. Good luck finding someone to believe that. From what I’ve seen, you’re quite the troublemaker.”
“You’re ridiculous.” He shakes his head while smiling. Have I mentioned how much I wanna jump him? Damn I’m tipsy.
“You mentioned food. You have something in mind? Because I don’t even know where we are.” I admit. We’re definitely still in the same neighborhood as the frat house because all we’ve passed are houses but I’m hoping, since he apparently frequents that frat house, he has an idea of what else is around us.
“I know a place. Come on, drunky.” He pulls my hand in the other direction and I briefly lose my balance, using his shoulder to steady myself. We’re inches away from each other, his green eyes directly in front of my face. “Sidewalk trip you up again? Someone should really repave this.” Before I can even respond, he turns away and starts walking again.
I exhale shakily and follow him, weak in the knees for a brand new reason.
“A taco truck?”
It was another fifteen minute walk to get to our destination: a food truck that Ben apparently frequents after he’s been out all night. It’s parked in the middle of a nearby town center that I know I’ve been to before but never found a reason to go back.
“It’s really good, I promise.”
As we walk up to the counter, he lets go of my hand and puts it on the small of my back, leading me to look at the menu. To be honest, I’m not really that hungry but I know I should eat because I don’t want to stop drinking but I also don’t want to keep making a fool of myself.
“I’ll just have whatever you’re having.” I say looking at the menu. He’s looking at me though, rubbing my back with his thumb. I can’t honestly be expected to be focused on food when he’s touching me like this. The fucker.
“You trust me then?” He asks innocently.
“Well you did save me earlier tonight so that means you’ve earned my trust.”
“I won’t let you down.” He winks. I go to grab the Fireball that’s in his other hand but he holds it away from me, just out of reach. “Oh, no. You’re eating first.” We’re standing face to face now.
“Stop teasing me then.” I whisper.
“Can’t handle it?” He whispers back. That’s it. I lift my face, about to kiss him.
“What can I get you guys?” The truck owner comes out of nowhere. We both jump back from each other. Dammit.
“Uhm.” Good. He’s flustered too. “Four chicken tacos and two waters, please.”
“Both of those waters are for him. He’s been drinking all night. Needs to sober up.” I say to the truck owner. Ben looks at me accusingly.
“I have not been--”
“C’mon Ben you’ve been gripping that Fireball for hours. You’re not fooling anyone.”
The truck owner laughs, glancing down at the half empty handle in Ben’s hand. I can see how bad he wants to deny it but he doesn’t. Just stares at me in disbelief as I remain completely stagnant. Keep teasing, baby. Two can play.
“Four chicken tacos, coming up.” The man says, still smiling as he walks back to the kitchen.
“Cheap move. You’re not getting away with that.” Ben says once he’s gone.
“I certainly hope not.” I say, stepping a bit closer to him, looking up at him through my lashes. I link my finger through his belt loop and pull him closer to me. “Do something about it.”
“Christ.” He curses, looking away. “We’re in public.”
“Aw. Can’t handle it?”
He doesn’t respond. Instead, he scoffs and bites his lip. He lifts his hand and cups my face, stroking his thumb against my cheek. His eyes flit to my lips and I swear he’s about to kiss me but again, he doesn’t.
“I can handle it.” He whispers. I swallow, trying to control my breathing.
My heart is slamming against my chest and I have to clench my thighs together. His effect on me is unbelievable but I know he feels it too. We’re inches away but I can’t bring myself to react. I just stare into his bright green eyes, quickly down to his lips and then back up to his eyes. His thumb is still rubbing my cheek and I contemplate bringing it to my mouth.
“Here you are. Four chicken tacos and two waters.” I blink repeatedly and step away from Ben, shaking my head trying to clear my impure thoughts.
“Thanks, mate. Sarah, will you grab them?”
“Oh, uh, yeah. Sorry.” I stutter. Ben smirks, knowing my inability to focus is because of what just happened. He pays the truck owner, telling him to keep the change.
“C’mon, let’s go.” I expect him to hold his hand out for me to take, but his are full and so are mine. Damn. Now how am I supposed to walk straight?
“Let’s sit here.”
After continuing to walk around for a while, Ben has led us to a local park in the neighborhood we were in earlier. We’ve managed to revert back into normal conversation and bantering, not acknowledging the turn of events at the food truck. We haven’t eaten yet but I can feel myself sobering up a bit, as I have to keep forcing myself to focus on the words Ben is saying and not thinking about what he’d look like between my thighs.
“You know this area pretty well. You bring a lot of girls around?” I joke.
“Ha, yeah. Deserted parks in the middle of the night are my go-to date spot.”
“It does have a certain ambiance, I suppose. If you’re, you know… a serial killer.” He sits on the bench and laughs pretty loud. The sound gives me that same feeling in my chest from earlier and I wonder if I’ll ever get tired of hearing it.
“I honestly don’t have a response to that.” He’s still chuckling. “But I’m definitely not a serial killer.”
“Good to know.” I say as I sit down next to him.
We sit in silence for a bit, both of us just eating our tacos and drinking the water. It’s not an uncomfortable silence though. It’s serene, like we’ve known each other for years and are simply enjoying being near each other for the first time in a while. He looks out at the park ahead of us and I find myself staring at him again. My eyes wander from his sharp jawline to his full, pink lips to his messy blonde hair. He’s so goddamn beautiful and I’d bet anything he doesn’t even have to try.
“You’re staring again.” He finally speaks.
“Yeah I am.” I don’t even deny it. He’s gonna have to get used to it.
“What are you thinking?” He asks, still looking away from me. Hm, to be honest or no? I could tell him exactly what I’m thinking right here and now. But no, it’s too easy.
“I’m wondering why you haven’t given me back the Fireball yet.” He laughs, again. Nope, I’ll never get tired of hearing it. He reaches down to pick up the fireball and hands the bottle to me. I unscrew the cap and take a fairly sizable swig.
“Alright take it easy, Trixie.”
“Well, you drink some!” I say as I offer the bottle back to him.
“I’m okay, babe, really.” My breath hitches at the nickname. “I do have a confession to make though.”
“Oh?” Is this it? I don’t know how I feel about fucking in the middle of a public park but hey I guess there’s a first time for everything.
“I smoke cigarettes and I’m feeling the urge to light one right now but I don’t want to if it’ll make you sick or uncomfortable. Do you mind?”
“Usually, yes but I’ll make an exception for now.” I really thought he was going to ask to fuck in a public park? Jesus. What’s wrong with me?
“Because I’m hot?”
“AND douchey. Will you let that go?”
“Never.”
He removes a carton of cigarettes from inside his jacket pocket and takes out two, putting one between his teeth and the other behind his ear. It’s hot, but not as hot as his fingers expertly flicking the lighter and then him taking a long drag, blowing out the smoke as he exhales.
We sit in silence for a bit again. Him continuing to smoke his cigarette and me taking swigs from the handle. I’m torn between wanting to hear his voice again and wanting to sit in the comfortable silence. It’s impossible to look away as he continues to take drags from his cigarette. I know how bad it is but fuck if he doesn’t look irresistible doing it. If he notices, he doesn’t mind but the more I drink, the more antsy I get.
“How long have you been smoking?” I ask, deciding I want to hear his voice again.
“Too long.”
“Have you ever tried to quit?”
“Yeah, it’s not as easy as they say.”
“Well, here I’ll help you.” I take the cigarette out of his hand and take a drag from it. He watches in shock. I know he’s expecting me to cough but I don’t.
“You smoke?”
“Sometimes.” I admit, taking another drag.
“Holy shit.” He says under his breath. I then throw the cigarette on the ground and step on it, effectively putting it out. “Hey! That wasn’t quite done yet.”
“I know. I said I’d help you quit, remember?” He stares at me in disbelief.
“You’re…” He starts, not able to find the words.
“I’m… what?”
“Something.” He says finally.
“Flattery will get you nowhere, Benjamin.”
“I wish you’d stop calling me that.”
“Never.” I repeat his statement from earlier.
Hours have passed and we’re still sitting on this damn park bench, talking about anything and everything. The craziest part is that I don’t think either of us ever made a solid effort to go home or get the other back to their place. No, the subjects have been limited to favorite movies, books, our families, an explanation of our tattoos, and even a brief discussion of male celebrity crushes. He’s put his hand on my knee a few times and I’ve found excuses to occasionally put mine on his chest and shoulders but still, we keep our hands to ourselves.
“What time is it?” I ask, finally coming to the realization that it’s starting to get light outside. He takes his phone out for the first time that night, which reminds me that I haven’t checked in with Ella or Michaela. Shit.
“Whoa. It’s 6:30. I have class in two hours.”
“Oh my god.” I don’t mean to say it outloud but I can’t help it. “We’ve been out all night?”
“Disappointed?”
“No,” I smile, “definitely worth it.”
“Let’s get you back then.” He stands and offers his hand.
He’s kind enough to order an Uber back to my place, having me dropped off before he goes to class. We’re riding in silence in the back of the car, his hand on my thigh the whole way back. I really might combust but it’s probably too soon to ask him to finger me in the back of an Uber.
“Ben?”
“Yeah?”
“Thank you for this. Seriously, between saving me from that jackass and feeding me when I’m drunk I had a really, really good time.”
“Me too.” He smiles, and squeezes my thigh. Seriously, is it too soon? I could move his hand a little further north and we’d be good to go.
“Here you are!” The driver announces. Ben gets out first, walking around to my side and opening the door for me. Such a gentleman. I can definitely work with that.
“One second.” Ben tells the driver, signaling him to wait and then walking me up to my door. “So...” he starts.
“So...” I respond.
“We should do this again.”
“This exactly?”
“Well, no.” He laughs. There’s a lull.
“I’d invite you up but--”
“I’d accept.”
“Skip class.” The words are out before I can stop them.
“Wow. You’re a bad influence.”
“Sorry.” I laugh. “I thought that had been established.”
“I wish I could but I can’t today. We’re doing monologues.”
“Another time then?” I know how needy I sound but I really can’t help it.
“Of course.” He brings his hand up and cups my face again. I decide that this time I’m not taking a chance, if he’s not going to do it then I will. I fist his t-shirt in my hand and bring him to me, crashing his lips onto mine. He’s still for a second, obviously surprised, but his lips slowly begin to work against mine until they’re moving in perfect synchronization. He moves his hands down to my waist as mine work their way into his hair, lightly fisting his blonde curls. And it’s perfect. All of it. His lips are so soft and his quiet moans are fueling my every movement, desperately trying to be as close to him as I possibly can. It’s so perfect that when he pulls away I actually, verbally whine.
“God, I wanna stay.” He whispers, still inches away from me.
“But you can’t.” He brings his hands back up to cup my face and kisses me quickly one more time.
“I want to.” He insists.
“I believe you.” I laugh. “Here, give me your phone.”
He takes his phone out of his back pocket and hands it to me. I put my number in under ‘Trixie’ and hand it back to him.
“Trixie.” He smiles at the name.
“Text me, okay?” I say as I start to walk into the doorway.
“Wait.” He stops me by grabbing my hand and kisses me again. He tries to make it quick but I put my hand on the back of his head, holding him in place and deepening the kiss. He moans against my mouth and it might be the one sound I love more than his laugh. His hands are around my waist again for one second until he pulls away. “Oh, I’m in trouble.” He sighs, his forehead resting against mine.
“Go to class.” I say lightly pushing his chest away from me.
“See you later, babe.” He winks as he walks away and gets into the Uber.
I close the door behind me and lean against it for a second, fisting my hair in my hands and shutting my eyes closed tight.
“FUCK.” I yell to no one in particular.
“Sarah?” I recognize Ella’s voice before I see her come out of her room. “Did you just get back?
“Yep.” I admit, my hands still in my hair as I exhale obnoxiously and smile.
“Damn, that good?” She asks.
“We didn’t fuck.”
“Oh... then... What’s up with you?”
I start from the beginning, telling her the whole story and leaving absolutely no details out. Of course, as soon as I’m finished, Michaela walks out of her room. She takes in the scene; me completely flustered and Ella literally on the edge of her seat.
“Um… What’s going on?”
“You are never skipping another party.” Ella responds.
“And he’s BRITISH? Like he’s actually British?”
“Yes, Mic for the 800th time he’s really, actually British. Or he’s an expert at faking accents.”
The three of us had moved to our dining room where I proceeded to tell Michaela the entire story. Ella gets just as excited as she did the first time, sometimes even stopping me at certain parts.
“THIS is the best part oh my god, yeah.”
“UGH I love this.”
“I still CANNOT believe he really did that, wow.”
So, yeah. It’s been an eventful morning of excited storytelling and obsessing over Ben’s teasing and British-ness. At some point, Michaela asked me for his last name which I realize I never got, but that doesn’t stop Ella from pulling out her laptop and trying to find him on social media anyway. Since she’s an expert who should probably work for the FBI, it doesn’t take her long.
“FOUND HIM.” She squints at her laptop screen. “Ben Hardy.”
“Hardy? That’s fitting, I guess.” I say as I pull my chair up next to hers. Mic brings hers to the other side, so we’re all collectively stalking his facebook page.
“Oh my GOD.” Mic exclaims. “THAT’S him?!”
Ella has his profile picture pulled up and yes, it’s a very good photo of him. I get that feeling in my chest again just looking at his picture. Damn him.
“Yes,” I laugh a bit. “That’s him.”
“Sarah, you are absolutely fucking with me.”
“I am NOT fucking with you! That’s really him!”
“He’s so HOT.” She emphasizes the last word. I put my head into my hands, hysterically laughing.
“I TOLD you.” Ella chimes in as she continues scrolling through his tagged photos. “Hey, that’s his cute friend I saw… and that’s his beer pong partner.” She points to a photo of four boys sitting very close in what looks like a dorm room, Ben on the bottom right.
“Did you end up talking to him?” I ask.
“No, I never got a chance to.”
“Oh, bummer. Ben said he thought you were cute.” I share. She stares at me accusingly.
“He what?! And you’re just now telling me this?”
“Well... I...”
“Who’s his beer pong partner?” Mic ignores us, pointing to the auburn haired boy in the photo. Ella clicks on the picture so the tags show all of their names.
“Oh, Joe. That’s his roommate who’s in the fraternity.” I repeat Ben’s words.
“He’s…” Mic starts but trails off. Ella and I look at her, wide eyed, waiting for her to finish.
“Cute? You can say it, M.”
“He’s… yeah. He’s cute, fine.” She admits, crossing her arms and huffing. Ella and I smirk knowingly at each other. “Oh, fuck off.” She curses at us.
“Gwilym.” Ella says out of nowhere.
“What?”
“That’s his cute friend’s name.”
“Who also thinks you’re cute.” I tease her.
“I’ll have to decide what I’m gonna do about that.” She flips her hair and smirks. Ella’s a master at her craft and I smile, excited to watch her work on this Gwilym. As for Joe, well I’m definitely hatching a plan to get him and Mic in a room together.
At that moment, my phone buzzes, breaking me out of my mental plan making. A text from a number I don’t have saved shows.
“I know she only works on Saturdays but is there any chance Trixie is available tonight?”
It’s Ben.
“Guys.” I get my friends’ attention and show them the text.
“TRIXIE, oh my GOD. I’m going to cry.” Michaela exclaims, causing me to burst into laughter once again. I’m so giggly at everything he says. How fuckin’ lame.
“Are you gonna see him again?” Ella asks.
“I think so.” I admit, trying to think of something to respond. I save his name in my phone as ‘Benjamin’ and type out:
“I suppose she can make an exception for this very special case. It just so happens I have mojito ingredients at my place.”
Since both of my friends are looking over my shoulder as I type, Ella chimes in.
“You’re gonna bring him here?”
“Should I not?”
“Well… you’re definitely getting laid tonight.” She accuses, sticking her tongue out. I look at Mic for confirmation and she shrugs.
“Not necessarily.” I try to deny it but I definitely knew what I was doing. “Is this bad? I’m a slut.” They both laugh.
“We been knew.” Ella says.
“I won’t make it too easy.” I defend.
“You better not be referring to my mojito ingredients.” Mic chimes in. I don’t respond because I definitely was but I’ll run out and get my own. Maybe. My phone buzzes again. He responds quick, I like it.
“Well, it’s hard to say no to that. I’ll come by around 7?”
I type out a quick confirmation and send him our address, just in case he didn’t save it from this morning.
“It’s a date. See you then, gorgeous. Xx”
I read his response and smile like a goddamn idiot. My friends ask what he said so I show them. Their faces light up the same way as mine.
“Use protection.” Ella warns.
“Or, you know… don’t.” Mic suggests.
“MIC!”
Ella slaps her shoulder at the same time I burst into laughter again. Her breeding kink is bound to get one of us in trouble eventually.
Hi!! So here is the masterlist for this series that’s going to have all my Gwil x Ella parts in one spot for you to read, i hope you enjoy them!
Warnings: drinking, swearing
Summary: Best friends and college roommates Ben, Joe, and Gwil, find themselves tangled up with a group of girls who bring out the best (and worst) in them.
Authors’ Note: Stories can stand alone, but it’s much better when read all together! Not everything is always in the same tense, or same point of view/perspective.
Passed The Test
Rating: T
Word Count: 3.5k
Warnings: series warnings
Summary: Someone from Ella’s class has got an eye on her, as well as an interesting connection to her new friends.
A Little Crush
Rating: T
Word Count: 1.8k
Warnings: nothing, literally nothing
Summary: Gwil’s friend from work grills him about the girl he’s seeing, before walking her to class and spending the whole lecture ignoring the professor in favor of each other.
Quite A Cheeky Little Thing
Rating: T
Word Count: 2.3k
Warnings: nothing, literally nothing
Summary: Ella attends a play that Gwil is starring in, and the two go out for a subtly sultry dinner afterwards.
A Very Bad Day
Rating: T
Word Count: 3.7k
Warnings: making out, series warnings
Summary: Ella is having a… less than amazing day. It turns out Gwilym is just what she needed to turn it around though.
Macarons And Spoiled Surprises
Rating: M
Word count: 3.6k
Warnings: swearing, Smut Lite™, some butt touchin’, uhhh Gwil being cheeky, heavy petting, dry humping (yeehaw)
Summary: Gwil invites Ella over to the apartment for a surprise and their celebration gets a little… Out of hand.
Quite A Cheeky Little Thing | All You Have To Do Is Fall In Love AU
Other parts: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Author: Ella - @lovehelpmewrite
Pairing: Gwilym Lee / OFC
Rating: T
Word Count: 2.3k
POV: Ella
Warnings: nothing, literally nothing
Summary: Ella attends a play that Gwil is starring in, and the two go out for a subtly sultry dinner afterwards.
Masterlist found here!
Series Summary: Best friends and college roommates Ben, Joe, and Gwil, find themselves tangled up with a group of girls who bring out the best (and worst) in them.
Series Warnings: drinking, swearing
Authors’ Note: Stories can stand alone, but it’s much better when read all together! Not everything is always in the same tense, or same point of view/perspective.
Ella: What do I even wear to a play?
Gwil: Something nice :)
“Something nice? What does that even- what does he even mean by nice? Like a dress? Like a cocktail dress or evening wear or…” I trailed off nervously, pacing in my room while Sarah and M laid on my bed watching.
“Honestly, I think you’re overthinking it,” Sarah said. She was laying on her back, arm over her eyes to block out the light and minimize whatever hangover she was suffering from.
“I’m not! I can’t show up in a sundress and see everyone else there in evening gowns, Sarah! It’s important to him and I don’t want to embarrass him!”
“Ella, I mean, I know what you mean but I think you’re putting too much on this too,” M said honestly.
I stopped in my pacing and stared at her. “Well then what am I supposed to wear Mic?”
“Why don’t you just ask him?” Sarah asked as she slowly rolled off my bed and started toward the open door. “I’m going back to bed, good luck,” she called over her shoulder.
I turned back to M.
“She’s right.”
I groaned in frustration and walked over and dropped onto my bed facedown.
“M you know I’m not good at this, what if I fuck this up?” I mumbled into the bed.
She just rubbed a hand over my back comfortingly before speaking, “if he’s as great as you’ve been saying, he won’t let you fuck it up.”
I sighed and turned my face so I was looking at her again. “You’re right. You’re both right. I just… I like him a lot and I don’t want to scare him off or something.”
She just hummed in understanding and nodded, watching me think.
I picked my phone up and texted Gwil.
And by nice you mean…?
I dropped it back onto my comforter and looked back at Mic.
“Sorry for being a bitch.”
“It’s okay, I’m pretty used to it.”
I laughed and shoved her shoulder jokingly. “Yeah, I’m sure."
--- --- ---
I smoothed down the skirt of my dress nervously while I stood with the group of other people presumably invited by the cast. I couldn’t help but hold my head a little higher though, as my invite came from the lead actor himself.
We all clapped as the cast made their way down the hallway outside of the theater, a few stopping by their invitees and thanking them with hugs and exchanging of flowers and kisses.
Anxiety jumped in my chest as I watched Gwilym smiling and shaking hands with several of the people he passed, graciously thanking them for coming and for their praise on his performance. He had changed from his last costume into some dress pants and a button up shirt. Finally, his eyes met mine and a large smile overcame his face.
“I’m so glad you could make it,” he spoke, pulling me into a hug
“Oh! Of course, I’m glad I came. You were amazing!” I congratulated. I reached up and wrapped my arms around his back tightly. I closed my eyes at the comforting warmth and pressure of him against me and smiled wider than I have in a long time when we pulled back.
Gwilym turned his eyes down to my dress, his hands remaining on my hips while he looked me over.
“You look… incredible. This dress is just gorgeous on you,” he complimented, eyes staring into mine intensely. I bit my lip nervously as less than kid-friendly responses filled my head.
“Well, wanted to make sure I could keep up with my date. I mean, some of those costumes…” I paused, grinning as he looked down and blushed in embarrassment. Several of his costumes had involved him being shirtless or majorly undressed. “Well, lets just say I don’t know if I can quite hold up to that standard.”
“Well, I can assure you, you’re keeping up just fine. In fact, I’ll probably be the one having trouble keeping up with a woman as beautiful as you,” he countered, turning and leading us down the hall to the exit. He offered his arm and I gratefully slipped my hand into the crook of his elbow, my wrist pressed against the rolled up sleeve of his button down.
“Such a charmer, Gwil,” I grinned, looking up at him while he focused on finding a way through the crowd of leaving people.
Once we were actually out on the street and I could feel the cool night air on my cheeks I felt more at ease, like I normally did around Gwil.
“So there’s this little italian bistro just down the street here, amazing chicken parmesan, amazing steak and fries-”
“Gwil, I uh… I’m a vegetarian,” I said sheepishly, avoiding his eyes.
“Oh! Ah- they um… they have some amazing pasta dishes as well! Salads and, uh… whatnot,” he offered, obviously wracking his brain for ideas.
I couldn’t help but laugh a little to myself, calling his attention back to me.
“What?”
“You’re cute when you’re flustered is all,” I laughed, looking up at him as his cheeks reddened.
“Well then I must be incredibly cute right now,” he joked, rubbing the back of his neck with his free hand.
“Absolutely adorable I’m afraid.”
I watched his blush grow, having to look down at the sidewalk to calm the intense smile on my face while we walked in comfortable silence toward the bistro. Once we were finally inside and getting seated, Gwil pulled my chair out for me making my cheeks warm again as he took his own seat.
“So what can I get for you two?”
“Could we get a bottle of your best Chardonnay? Thank you so much.”
I held up my menu carefully, at first genuinely looking over the options but once I had decided on spaghetti carbonara, I was peeking over the top of it to see Gwilym’s concentrated face while he looked things over.
Finally, the waitress came over with the bottle of wine, and a waiter behind her carrying a small basket of what I could immediately identify as garlic bread. We ordered easily and as soon as I deemed it polite I reached for a piece of the freshly toasted bread tearing off a chunk and humming as I ate it.
“You’re cute when you’re staring, just so you know,” Gwil said suddenly, taking his own piece of garlic bread.
My eyes turned up, embarrassment and panic flitting in my chest but he just smiled at me upon seeing my deep blush.
“Especially when you think I’m not looking.”
“I didn’t think you… sorry,” I mumbled, shifting in my seat and tucking my skirt under my thighs awkwardly.
“It’s okay, like I said, you’re cute when you do it,” he grinned cockily, taking a sip of his wine.
“You know you’re flirtier tonight than you usually are… I like it,” I smirked, tearing off another piece of garlic bread and chewing it slowly.
Gwil sat up a little straighter at my confession and smirked back, eating his own garlic bread.
“Speaking of flirting, our roommates seeming to be getting along well,” I commented, swirling my wine.
“Oh? Which ones?”
I laughed at the realization and cocked my head to the side. “Both of them I guess.”
“Well, Ben and Sarah certainly seem to be getting on well,” he said, gauging my reaction to see if I knew they had already fucked.
“Mmm, at least they do it quietly.”
I tried not to laugh as Gwil nearly choked at the bold statement. He swirled his wine glass absently as he spoke, only flicking them up to mind after the words were spoken.
“So are you- uh… are you quiet as well then?”
I stared into his eyes for a long moment, watching the heat rise up his neck from his unbuttoned collar.
“Sometimes,” I paused, taking another sip of wine. “Usually not.”
For a moment we just stared at each other, seeming to dare the other to make some sort of move.
Of course that all was ended when the waitress decided then was the perfect time to bring our meals. We both cleared our throats and sat up, smiling politely and thanking her as our plates were put down.
Even as I hungrily started eating, I couldn’t help but glance up at Gwilym through my lashes. Definitely more than meets the eye there.
After we had finished dinner we decided to walk around the nearest park for a while, holding hands and continuing to just talk and joke around and tell stories.
“Yeah! She broke my nose!” I laughed, watching Gwil react with mild horror as I recounted the time my sister and I were playing “airplane” and her legs bent and I went crashing into the floor.
“That’s insane!”
“You can still see the line from it, look!” I stopped and turned to face him, pointing to the still faint line I saw on the bridge of my nose every day.
“I don’t see anything.”
“Here,” I said, pulling his arm so he was nearly pressed against my front, face mere inches from my own.
“Ohhh, I see it now,” he murmured, fingers coming up to gently trace over the pale line.
My breath hitched in my throat while I looked up at him, my heartbeat pounding in my ears while his hand slowly moved back to tuck a piece of hair behind my ear sweetly.
“Ella?” He whispered, face moving ever so slowly toward my own, his eyes on my lips.
“Yeah?”
He moved his eyes up to mine. “I’m sorry your sister broke your nose.”
A slow smile grew on my face while my hands came up to rest on his shoulders, slowly moving over them and inward to sit on the sides of his neck.
“Gwil?”
“Yeah?” he answered breathlessly, lips just marginally out of reach.
“Kiss me.”
“Yes ma’am.”
He pressed his lips to mine and it was like my heart exploded in my chest. His lips were warm against my own, contrasting to the slight chill of the night air and when his other hand came to rest on the small of my back the heat made me shiver slightly and lean further into him.
Not that either of us were complaining.
He gave a small hum of approval when my hand moved down to his waist and pulled him even closer to me. I could feel his responding grin when he experimentally lowered his hand to grab over my butt and I moaned into his mouth.
When we finally pulled back it was reluctant and slow, both of us pausing and resting our foreheads together.
I laughed slightly embarrassed, letting my head drop down to rest against his shoulder. I let myself enjoy his continuous warmth though as his arms came to wrap around me comfortably. I could get used to this.
He walked me back to my dorm after that, both of us reluctant to leave the other. We both stood in front of the outside door to Chatham, holding hands and staring at each other with dopey smiles.
“I had… such an amazing time Gwilym. From a great play,” I took a step closer to him, “to an amazing dinner together,” another step closer, “to a spectacular kiss.” I smirked up at him, my hand moving slowly over his side and ribs to press against his back.
“Quite a cheeky little thing when you’re given the chance, aren’t you?” he grinned back down at me.
I just grinned wider. “You haven’t seen anything yet, Mr. Lee.”
My eyes fluttered closed as he leaned down, kissing me for what probably was the twentieth time tonight. I hummed into it contentedly, vowing to never get tired of the feeling of his lips against mine. We could have stayed like that all night for all I cared and I would have been happy enough.
But all good things must come to an end I suppose, as a muted “oh!” sounded from inside the dorm doors. We pulled back reluctantly, one of my hands on his back and the other fisting his collar, his on my waist and my neck.
And behind the glass of the door stood Ben Jones, face taken over by a large grin.
Gwil and I cleared our throats and let go of each other awkwardly as Ben pushed the door and came outside to stand with us. I crossed my arms tightly over my chest while Gwilym scratched the back of his neck, his other hand resting on his waist.
“Hey Gwil,” Ben greeted knowingly.
“Ben,” Gwil and I greeted at the same time.
“Just came out for a smoke. You?”
Gwil cleared his throat again, seemingly giving Ben the death stare. “Just walking Ella home, mate.”
Ben hummed and nodded knowingly, pulling out a cigarette and a lighter. “ I see.” He turned his gaze from Gwil to me and winked, making a definitively embarrassed blush creep up my neck.
“I’m going to- I’m just gonna inside. I had a really great time Gwilym,” I said finally, feeling the awkward tension only get greater.
“I’ll see you on Monday, love,” Gwil said finally, giving me one last soft smile as I pulled open the door and walked inside.
I practically stormed up to our dorm room door, shoving my key in and closing it loudly behind me.
“Sarah, I swear to god I’m going to murder Ben.”
“What? Why, what did he do?”
“He fucking-” I paused to throw my arms around nonsensically. “Interrupted our kiss! I was thinking about inviting him in and Benjamin fucking had to come out and cockblock me!”
M and Sarah both had to hold back laughs and while I was truly frustrated I couldn’t help the giggles that bubbled up my throat, leaving the three of us nearly falling on the floor in laughs at the situation.
With mad accounting skills, Joe is on the ‘clean’ side of the gang. He is responsible for everything that involves money, eg everything. And he shoots. There’s a number of bodies behind his back.
Check out the rest of the cast for my Mob!Au fanfiction