The air at the England camp is alive with anticipation. The excitement of the previous match lingers, creating a charged atmosphere, and Anthony finds himself drawn to Declan more and more each day.
They haven’t labeled their relationship, but all Anthony knows is that he likes spending time with Dec, definitely loves kissing him, and he doesn’t want any of it to stop. He also appreciates their banter, a language of its own, filled with teasing, and the laughter that makes Declan's face light up in the most captivating way.
The morning sun filters through the training ground, casting a golden hue over everything. Anthony stretches on the pitch, his muscles relishing the warm-up, when Declan jogs over, a mischievous glint in his eyes after he catches Anthony tugging down the front of his top from where it's ridden upwards.
“Ready to get schooled, Gordon?” Declan teases, nudging Anthony with his shoulder.
Anthony grins and rolls his eyes, feeling that familiar light and easy flutter in his chest. “In your dreams.”
They share a laugh, the kind that feels easy and natural. As they move through drills, Anthony notices how Dec’s presence steadies him. The banter between them flows effortlessly, punctuated by moments of shared glances and inside jokes. Somehow it feels as though they've known each other forever.
During a break, they sit on the damp grass, catching their breath. Declan leans back, propping himself up on his elbows, looking out over the training ground. Anthony can’t help but steal glances at him, taking in the way the sunlight highlights the contours of his angular face.
“Dec,” Anthony starts, his voice soft, “d'you ever think about what happens after all this?”
Declan turns to him, eyebrows raised. “You mean after the tournament?”
“Yeah. Like, what happens with us?”
Declan’s smile is warm, reassuring. “I think we figure it out as we go, mate. I like this,” he gestures between them, “and I don’t see why it has to stop.”
Anthony nods, feeling a surge of affection and a wash of relief he wasn't aware he was witholding. “Me too.”
Their moment is interrupted by Stonesy, who plops down next to them with a wide grin. “You two look cozy. What’s the goss?”
Anthony feels his cheeks heat up. He opens his mouth to respond, but the words get stuck. “Uh, nothing much, just… talking.”
Declan, ever the quick thinker, jumps in. “We were just discussing who’s got the best moves on the team. Obviously, I said you've got nothing on me.”
John laughs, clearly delighted by the deflection. “You wish, Dec. Everyone saw those moves after the quarters.”
The banter continues, and Anthony is grateful for the distraction. He admires how easily Declan shifts the focus, making everyone laugh and feel at ease. It’s one of the things he loves and admires about him.
Later, as they head back to their rooms, Declan wraps an arm around Anthony’s shoulders, pulling him close. “You alright? Looked like you were about to combust back there.”
Anthony chuckles, leaning into Declan’s side. “Yeah, thanks for that. I’m still getting used to… this.”
Declan’s grip tightens slightly. “Me too. But we’ve got this, Ant. No need to rush anything.”
That night, they find themselves in Declan’s room, the TV playing highlights from the previous matches. Declan lies back on the bed, and Anthony joins him, resting his head on Dec’s chest. The steady rise and fall of his breathing is soothing, and Anthony feels content in a way he hasn’t felt in a long time.
“Didn’t expect you to be such a cuddler,” Anthony murmurs, a smile tugging at his lips.
Declan chuckles, his fingers absentmindedly tracing patterns on Anthony’s back. “Guess you bring it out in me.”
Anthony’s heart swells at the admission. He lifts his head slightly to look at Declan. “I like it. I like being here with you.”
Declan’s eyes soften, and he leans down to press a gentle kiss to Anthony’s lips. “Good, because I don’t plan on going anywhere.”
The next day, during training, the mood is good. The team is a well-oiled machine, working together seamlessly, and Declan and Anthony’s connection on the field seems to have bloomed alongside their off-field relationship. They move in sync, anticipating each other’s moves, creating opportunities that leave their teammates impressed.
As they head back to the dressing room, Harry Kane comments, “You two have gotten pretty close lately, haven’t you?”
Anthony feels the blush creeping up his neck. “Uh, yeah, we’ve just been… spending more time together.”
Declan, sensing Anthony’s discomfort, jumps in with a grin. “Can you blame him, mate? I’m irresistible.” He winks, making everyone laugh, effectively diverting the attention.
In the quieter moments, Anthony reflects on how much has changed in such a short time. He’s never felt this kind of connection with anyone before, and it’s both exhilarating and terrifying. But with Declan by his side, he feels ready to face whatever comes next.
As they lie in bed that night, Declan pulls Anthony close, pressing a kiss to his temple. “You know, I’m glad we have this time together.”
“Me too,” Anthony whispers, feeling the truth of those words deep in his bones. He looks up at Declan, their faces inches apart. “I don’t want this to end.”
Declan smiles, a soft, genuine smile that makes Anthony’s heart skip a beat. “It won’t. We’ll make sure of it.”
Anthony closes his eyes, letting the warmth of Declan’s embrace wash over him. In this moment, everything feels right. The future may be uncertain, but with Declan, he knows they’ll face it together. And that’s all that matters.
After a few moments of comfortable silence, Declan breaks it with a question that catches Anthony off guard. “How long is a flight to Newcastle d’you reckon then?”
Anthony enjoys the way the syllables trip off Declan’s Cockney tongue. “About an hour, I think.”
Declan’s eyebrows shoot up. “Wait, have you even got an airport up there? I ain't gotta buy a private jet or something?”
Anthony laughs and hits him lightly on the chest. “'Course we’ve got an airport, you div. It’s the north of England, not the third world.”
He can feel the rumble of Declan’s laughter in his chest as he argues, “Same thing.”
Anthony rolls his eyes but smiles. “Like I said, about an hour. Not... not that I’ve, like… looked it up already or anything…”
Declan’s eyes twinkle with amusement. “Oh, so you have been planning my visits, huh?”
Anthony’s blush deepens, and he sputters, “N-No! I just… I was curious, alright?”
Dec’s laughter is infectious, and before Anthony knows it, they’re rolling around on the bed, playfighting until Declan pins him down, swooping down to steal his lips in a kiss.
The kiss is warm and sweet, filled with the promise of more moments like this. As they pull apart, Anthony gazes up at Declan, his heart full. Whatever the future holds, he knows they’ll face it together, and that’s all he needs.
just a christmas request bc im very much in spirit now .. mayhapz deccers and u work for the team and its a tradition to do a massive secret santa and its fate bc u get one of them and he gets you … and he finds that hes spending his time more around you (and its funny cuz ur not necessarily suspicious) until one day he kisses u out of surprise and hes like “you know part of my secret santa for you is a kiss”…. and u may continue that :3
The best present - Declan Rice.
HI BBY @rashys !! THANK U FOR THIS REQUEST, IM SO SORRY IT LITERALLY MAKES NO SENSE, BUT WRITING IS LITERALLY *"&"*"(!() NOT THE ONE FOR ME,, I HOPE U LIKE PARTS, I LOVE U SO MUCH ANGEL <333333333
Working with the England national team was one of the biggest achievements of your life. It was something you dreamt of since you was a little girl, getting to work with your idols. Being a physiotherapist was also the job you had taken a liking too since you first heard about it. Having the ability to help others be their greatest physically, was something you had always wanted to do. When you got the call you was going to be working as a placement at St Georges park, you was ecstatic. Tears flowing, with lots alcoholic celebration drinks to praise you for your achievement. You was the happiest girl in the world. Then, when the team had signed you for a job working with the players full time. You were definitely living your biggest dream.
The festive season was always exciting and something to look forward too at St Georges park. Decorations and lots of happy faces shining down the halls, something no one would want to miss. Maybe, Jordan Pickford. The team always seemed to go to town, tinsel hanging from nearly every single china object in the building. Music blasting from the speakers. As for the players, it seemed like a boost in their mentality and well being, considering that it wasn't long before they would got a well needed break to relax and spend time with their families. On a daily, you would catch John stones and Kyle walker skipping along down to the pitch singing a mixture of Christmas songs together. Believing they were the new Beyoncé and Jay Z. It really was a period of love and happiness.
A tradition the team had acquired over the festive period was secret Santa. It was always a good laugh to see what everyone had brought each other. Last year, you remember Harry Maguire receiving a book on tips to score a goal other than a header, and Jordan Pickford opened up a box containing therapy sessions to control his anger issues on the pitch. All in all, it was a laugh. This year, you had picked Trent Alexander-Arnold's name out of the hat, someone who you believed you could find a present for easily. However, the person who seemed to have chosen your name out the hat, didn’t have the same thoughts as yourself.
Declan Rice, the most charming number 41 in the world. One of the idols for many young girls, stealing the nations heart during the euros. Over the years, he had developed a strong liking to yourself, with all the boys noticing the way he would open the door for you, check how you were feeling, book unnecessary physio appointments. You didn't seem to pick up on his ways, thinking he was just being a gentleman, or working too hard on the pitch. To you, Declan Rice was just a close friend.
When Declan had pulled your name out the hat, his body froze. He was utterly scrambled as to what to buy for you. Nothing came to his mind, he didn't want to mess this up, given that this could be his one chance in getting closer to you. If he brought you something you didn't like, he feared you would never want to see him again. Very childlike he was, according to Mason.
"Hello Lads." You smile at the group of boys, who were gathered in the gaming room. A game of Fifa was sported on the TV, Jack and Bukayo competing against each other. Several grunts and profanities here and there from the two. You take a seat on the sofa, placing yourself next to John who was flicking through his phone, taking various videos of Jack sulking because of his loss.
"Yo, Y/N. How are you?" The familiar brummie accent echoes through the room, causing your head to turn in his direction.
"Good thanks, looks like you are getting obliterated by the little lad!" You replied, earning lots of laughs from the others. Saka reaches over to you, holding his fist out for a pump. "Might have to practise a little more on your skills, can't have someone 6 years younger than you winning."
"Alright y/n, are you asking for a game?" Jack spoke, eyes flickering from the screen and yourself.
"Have you gotten your secret Santa gift yet, Y/N/N?" John gazed over at you, sending you a beaming smile.
"Of course, worlds most organised person here!" You ran a hand over your face, nodding your head in response. The sarcasm was radiating off your body, you hadn't even began to search for Trent's gift.
"Not long left till we are handing them out," Dec spoke, running his hands over his shorts, before standing up and sighing. "Night lads, good night y/n. See you all tomorrow. Bukayo, keep thrashing jack will ya."
The next day, you found yourself looking up presents that Men would like, or even football players, or Scousers, the list went on. There was a few days until the gifts needed to be handed out, so you were fairly confident you would find something in time for Trent. Your office had a comfortable silence, no background noise needed. Just the noise of a scribble you would make against your notebook if you found something that tickled your fancy for Trent.
"Hey Y/N," The knock on your door making you jump, and before you even had the chance to reply, the door had opened. Quickly scrambling to close your laptop, you shut the website down immediately before giving your full attention to the man stood in front of you.
"Hi Declan," You mutter in confusion, a nervous smile arousing. You wasn't too sure as to why Declan was here so early, but you weren't complaining.
"Watching dirty things were we? you were quick to shut that down." He nods his head over to the laptop, a small smirk riding onto his face, you laugh at his choice of words, hitting his shoulder from his stupidity.
"How can I help you?" You smile, you didn't think the boys would be coming in for appointments until 10:30am, the clock on your desk shining 9:17am.
"My thigh, its been feeling really tight recently. I know I have an appointment later, but you wouldn't want me to be in pain before the game." He mumbles, "I know I have an appointment later, and I can.."
"Take a seat, idiot." You cut in, breaking your knuckles before getting ready to massage his tender skin. Your hands get to work by kneading the muscle gently, loosening up the pain. As you were working your magic, you noticed Declan had closed his eyes in bliss. A small moan escaping from his lips as you rub towards his groin. Giving him some extra special treatment.
"Was that a moan, Deccers?" Your eyes widening towards him, eyebrows furrowing at his state. His eyes shot open, cheeks flustering red. "What? No, of course it wasn't."
"Yeah, yeah." You chuckle at him.
A few days after the morning with Dec, you were walking through the cafeteria after collecting a cup of coffee. You spoke to a few of the boys, finding out how they were feeling after the last match result. From becoming the physio of the national team, you find yourself having a strong friendship with nearly all the players. Considering you see them daily, during international break. Using this friendship, you look out for the boys not only physically but mentally. Often worrying they don't speak enough about their mental health or emotions.
"Y/N!" You stop in halt down the corridor. The coffee in your hand nearly spilling due to the sudden change in movement. You turn your head to see a familiar friend of yours behind you, jogging over to speak.
"Dec, you okay?" You look up at him, his height towering over you.
"All good. Just wanted to ask you something."
"Go ahead." You replied, lifting the lid of your coffee to blow on the hot contents.
"I was wondering if maybe you could," His fingers find the black of his head, scratching the nape of his neck. "Help me choose a present for my Mum? Of course, you don't have to." He word vomits, stomach fluttering with butterflies. "But I just thought maybe hearing from a woman's perspective, could give me some ideas? It's hard not having someone like a girlfriend to help you out, and you are probably the closest girl I have.”
Your face fell into an awe, at the sight of the boy standing in front of you. His hair was messy, as though he had just woken and hadn't thought about styling it and his eyes were puffy still, suggesting he had slept pretty well.
"Of course, Dec. No worries, I'd love to help. Just give me a date and time." You smiled softly, nodding your head at his idea. Declan didn't know how it was possible to love a girl more and more each day.
"Thanks Y/N, you truly are the best, so how about.."
Just as Dec began, your phone buzzed in your pocket, alarming you that had an important phone call within 5 minutes you needed to take.
"Sorry Dec, I really need to go, a phone call is awaiting for me. Message me." You swiftly changed direction and walked towards your office. Leaving Declan standing alone in the corridor.
"Yes! Lets go." He whispers to himself, fist bumping the air. Oh boy, was he whipped for you. Off he was to tell Mason about the conversation you two just had, just a young school boy at heart.
Following on from the conversation, you did in fact help Declan choose a present. Picking out a luxury handbag from Selfridges, which was worth shedload amounts of money. Declan was having no hope finding you a proper main present, he had brought you a few items, a perfume you told him you liked and some chocolates. He still couldn’t find a main gift for you to receive.
The day before the exchanging of gifts between the team, Dec had found himself stressing. He knew he was running out of time, and he didn't want to let you down. Sure, he’s glad he’s picked a few bits for you, however he believes if not enough (in your opinion, it was plenty.) to wow you over. The only option he had was to ask his dear best friend, Mason Mount.
The day of the gift exchanging came flying around, wrapping paper was torn all over the room, and you had to remind yourself several times you were in a room with grown men. Your personal favourite present was Jordan Hendersons present to Kyle walker. A karaoke machine for him and John to use. As for you, you were more than grateful from your present from Declan. A top up of your favourite bottle of perfume. The thought of him remembering your scent made your heart flutter immensely.
Further on in the day, Declan had called Mason to meet alone. He wasn’t satisfied with himself, even though you had told him how much you appreciated his gift and remembrance. He was still not happy.
"Mase," He huffed, settling himself down on the sofa, a deep sigh passing from his lips.
"Dec, you need to chill. She’s happy. You should be too!”
"I know, I know, I just want to give her a final perfect gift. Did you see what all the other girls got? I don’t want her to feel I did her dirty.” He shrugs at Mason, a grumble falling from his mouth. Declan had spilt to Mason his secret Santa a few weeks prior, the kid not being able to deal with the fact he had gotten you as his special person. Since then, most nights the two would try and discuss what Y/N would like. Conversations over Facetime and Text becoming a habit.
“Do you think she thought I did her dirty?”
Mason chuckles at his best friends question, head shaking. "I had a thought last night about what you could do. If this happened, which I was 90% sure it would." Mason smiles at Declan, as he sharply sits up. His head that was once in his hands, now looking straight up at Mase. The definition of an excited child when they ask to open their presents on Christmas day.
"Go on.." The two converse together, Declan engaging in Mason's plan in setting out the best gift for Y/N. Declan could not have been happier with his best friend for coming up with the best idea. Reminding himself to award him afterwards.
"Mase, Dec... what you doing in here?" You approach the two boys, from the corridor, taking a seat next to Dec.
"Nothing, nothing. We were just.." Mason quickly reaches for his phone in his pocket, taking it out as a disguise. "Looking at Memes, right Dec."
"Yeah, have you seen the one 'hello darkness my old friend' meme of you me? quality in my opinion." Mason chuckles at Declan, hand rubbing over his eye.
"Yeah, quality."
"Actually. Y/N, can I talk to you in your office?" Declan smiles, tilting his head towards your office, before reaching a hand out to help you up. You comply with his actions, taking his hand and lifting yourself up.
"Sure," You smile, "Be right back Mase." And just as Declan is off, he turns his head back to look at Mason, who sends him a thumbs up and a big smile. Like a dad who had just dropped his son off for his first day of school. The encouragement Declan needed.
The two of you trod along to your office, chuckling at an awful dad joke Declan had told you. The nerves Declan got whenever he was around you, seem to uncomfortably bundle up in his stomach once again. His heart fluttering.
You both take a seat in your room, the quiet atmosphere causing an awkward silence between you both. Your mind is puzzled with what Declan needed to ask you, nothing coming to mind.
"You okay?" You raise your brow, watching him shuffle into a comfortable position.
"Yeah, yeah.." He replies, shaking his head. "You look, really.. pretty today, your hair.."
"Oh, thank you, Dec." Swallowing the lump in your throat. "You look.. great too."
"Thank you," He mumbles, eyes peering towards the ground. "So what did you want to ask me?"
His head shots up at your question, cheeks forming a bright shade of red. His lips were slightly parted, as though he couldn't form the words he wanted too. "I wanted to ask," He nervously chuckles, hand's reaching towards his neck.
The sight in front of you was a nervous mess, and you couldn't bare to see him crumble in front of you. Taking matters into your own hands, you decide to stand up from where you was sitting, and place yourself next to him. In hope this could calm his nerves.
"What did you want to ask?" You softly prompt him, taking his hand in yours and rubbing your thumb gently over his knuckles.
"I just wanted to ask.." And before you can even process what he had just said, he shuffles towards you closing the small gap between you both. His hands raise up towards your face, tucking a small piece of hair that had fallen over your eye behind your ear. His eyes fall being in contact with yours, to your lips. Pupils bursting at the soft pink goodness. He leans in to your face, placing a light, feather-like kiss.
You pull back at his actions, eyes widening in shock. Your mouth is still tingling from his touch, a burst of excitement running though your both of your veins.
"Y/N.." Declan breathes out, you smile at him. "I'm so sorry, I don't know what came over me.."
"No, no no no." Your hands find his face this time, pulling him towards you. The contact between both your chests is electrifying, the rapid beats pulsing between you both. Your lips find their way back to Declan's, this time with a lot more force than before. Fingers threading though his hair, earning a few breathless moans from the west ham captain.
"Y/N," He whispers between the next kiss, Eagerness not letting him fully speak.
"Mhm." You murmur, Before he places a sweet, slow peck on your cheek, pulling away.
