John Laurens x Reader: Flowering Affections Chapter 7
A/n: Sorry for taking so long to upload this. Chapter 6 here
Timeline: Modern
Warnings: None
Words: 2,496
Personally, my plan last night wasn’t to wake up to ten missed calls and forty-seven unread messages. That’s what happened though. Sitting up in my bed with my phone in my hand I looked down at the screen in bewilderment. Seven of the missed calls were from John, and the other three were each from Herc, Laf, and Alex. I had five texts from an unknown number, two from Thomas, eight messages from Alex, nine from Herc, and the other twenty-three were from John. It seemed he really wants to get in contact with me.
I stifled a yawn and unlocked my phone. I went into my messages and tapped on the unknown number. There was five texts and they said:
Hey, this is Eliza! I was just wondering if you get the time you could text me. (Sent at 1:50 a.m.)
Just to let you know I got your number from Alex’s phone. (Sent at 1:52 a.m.)
We all got home safe. I made sure to drop John, Laf, and Herc at their shared apartment and Alex is at our apartment with me. Just thought I’d let you know. (Sent at 1:55 a.m.)
(Y/n)? What happened earlier? You were there but suddenly you were gone. I haven’t seen you since at least twenty after midnight. (Sent at 2:06 a.m.)
I’m worried, please reply as soon as you see these. I hope you’re okay. (Sent at 2:15 a.m.)
Interesting. I kinda feel bad for worrying Eliza like that but I don’t want to reply yet. Not because I like leaving her in the dark or worried, because I don’t want to have to go through what happened last night once again. Not yet at least. So, I’ll just leave her texts for now. No, I won’t do that. I’ll just tell her something else.
Sorry about just leaving like that last night. Something came up and I just had to leave. I can go over what happened later if you want. I have something to do right now. (Sent at 8:03 a.m.)
With that I exited the conversation to check the other forty-two texts. Ugh, that’s gonna suck. I’ll start with the eight from Alex. Even though they’re just eight messages each one is probably going to be a paragraph though. Man, if I’d known how many texts I was going to have to go through in the morning I would have never slept last night. Then I could have responded to each of them as they were sent.
Hey, (Y/n). What’s up? What are you doing? (Sent at 5:53 a.m.)
What happened last night? I heard from Eliza that you just suddenly up and left. Not that she saw you leave but one moment you were there the next you were just, well, gone. (Sent at 5:55 a.m.)
Seriously, what happened? Why’d you leave? (Sent at 5:56 a.m.)
Just because you’re my friend you can’t just not explain yourself for suddenly leaving. Especially not because you are worrying my girlfriend half to death. (Sent at 5:59 a.m.)
What you did is not okay. This totally isn’t cool. (Sent at 6:01 a.m.)
Please respond. (Sent at 6:20 a.m.)
I’m sorry if I offended you. I know how I can come off as rude sometimes and that was not my intentions. (Sent at 6:23 a.m.)
Please, (Y/n). I’m only confronting you because I’m worried. I’m worried something’s happened to you. No one’s seen you since last night, or more technically, much earlier today. I’ll just text John and see if he knows what’s going on with you. I hope you’re okay. (Sent at 6:30 a.m.)
I placed a hand over my heart. Not only did I worry Eliza but I worried Alex. I’m not even offended in the slightest by his texts. It just shows me how much he cares. It’s warmed my heart a bit and made me feel slightly better. I woke up feeling shitty from what happened last night but now I feel a bit better. A banner slid down onto my screen, Eliza’s responded to my text. I left Alex’s texts and went to hers.
Oh, don’t worry! That’s completely fine, I’m just glad you’re safe. Maybe we can talk over tea or something this week? (Sent at 8:09 a.m.)
Yeah, totally! Let me get back to you later, I have to look at my schedule and see when I’m free. (Sent at 8:10 a.m.)
I decided next to go through Herc’s texts, I’ll leave the most and Thomas’ for last. I’ll probably just skim through John’s because there’s so many of them. Herc’s texts weren’t terrible, basically just a mixture of Alex and Eliza’s, meaning he was worried and upset but wasn’t as abrasive as the texts from Alexander. I sent back a quick apology and let him know that everything was fine, I just had to leave that was all.
Skimming through, John’s his texts were similar to what I got from the others. Concern, confusion, a bit of frustration as it got towards the end. For whatever reason I found myself getting irritated by the texts I had received from John. His concern for whatever reason grated on my nerves unlike it had with the others. Why do I feel so angry just even looking at his contact? Why do I feel so angry at John? Is it because he didn’t keep his promise? Those hurtful words he said, even though he wouldn’t remember them now? Why am I so upset at him? Is it wrong for me to be angry right now? No, I don’t think so. Although for one reason or another his last text really bothered me. It said:
(Y/n), please. I don’t know why you’re not responding to me or anyone else but please answer. I’m worried about you, what happened last night? Are you okay? I don’t know if somehow I upset you but please, please don’t take it out on everyone else. Talk to me. I’d be content with that even if for whatever reason you’ll end up hating me. I just want to know what’s going on. Whenever you have the time we can talk. My schedule is rather free this week and I’d even drop anything I’m doing if you want to talk. Just, contact someone to let us know you’re okay. (Sent at 6:45 a.m.)
Maybe it’s the fact that John seems so sincere in the text. Or maybe that it’s making me feel guilty for just leaving the way I did and worrying everyone. Or maybe, just maybe, I’m starting to believe Maria that part of the fault for what happened last night is John’s. Whatever the reason all I know is that I’m mad and not in the mood to talk to John at all. Which reminds me, I have to apologize to Maria, it’s still early, maybe I can make her her favorite breakfast. First though I have to check the texts from Thomas.
Good morning, (Y/n)! (Sent at 7:50 a.m.)
How are you feeling from last night? I know that what happened last night was scary so I just want to make sure that you’re fine so far. You can always call or text me if you need anything. (Sent at 7:53 a.m.)
I smiled as I reread the text for the third time. For some reason Thomas’ concern isn’t grating on my nerves, I even find it endearing. It’s so sweet that he’s worried about me and that he took the time to check up on me. No guy has ever gone out of his way to do something like that for me, well other than John. We’re going to ignore that fact for now though. I’m angry at him so I don’t want to think about that.
I quickly tapped out an answer then slid out of bed, leaving my phone behind on the ruffled covers. The wood floors were cold as I traipsed over to my dresser, pulling the middle drawer out to grab a pair of lacy jean shorts. After that I pushed in the drawer and opened another, this one being higher up than the last, and pulled out one of my favorite shirts. My mother had given it to me before I left for college this year. It’s a flowy white shirt that goes off the shoulder. I reached into another smaller drawer and grabbed a pair of rainbow socks.
I quickly dressed, adding my favorite sea turtle necklace. I brushed out my rat’s nest of hair and twisted it into a tight dutch braid. With that I grabbed my phone, slipping it in my back pocket, and left my room, the door closing with a quiet click. As I passed by the bathroom I caught a glimpse of what I looked like in the mirror. Damn! I look great! Too bad I can’t look like this when I actually have plans to go out. No time to waste looking at my reflection though, I need to make breakfast to apologize before Maria wakes up.
Upon making it to the kitchen I finally decided what I wanted to make for the apology. I’ll make her favorite breakfast, which just so happens to be my favorite breakfast as well. I’ll make waffles but these aren’t your normal waffles, oh nononono. These waffles are the size of the entire plate. With these waffles I am going to make my own strawberry sauce for a topping and cut up strawberries and peaches into slices to go with it. To top everything off I’m going to add whip cream to it.
I opened one of the many white cupboards looking for a mixing bowl. We have plenty of them but for some reason they are never where they’re supposed to be. Why is it like that? When you’re looking for something it’s never there but when your not looking for it it’s where it’s supposed to be. Just as I found the glass mixing bowl I had been in search for my phone dinged and vibrated as I was reaching for the large glass bowl. I slowly sank back down to where I was standing flat on my feet and my arm lowered until my palm was resting on the nice counters.
For a moment I was confused. What was the ding and vibrations about? Then I realized what it was and felt stupid for forgetting. I reached into my back pocket and pulled out my phone. The new text was from Thomas and I unlocked my phone to view the message. Right under my message was a new one. I ended up reading over my text again and then Thomas’ response.
I’m feeling fine, thank you for asking. It means a lot. Thank you again for what you did last night, Thomas. (Sent at 8:14 a.m.)
As I said the night before, it was no problem. Just the right thing to do. (Sent at 8:37 a.m.)
I rolled my eyes at the response. Only Thomas would say that, only Thomas. In that aspect he’s just like he had been in high school. Always playing big deals off as nothing, like it was as easy writing your own name. It had gotten on my nerves so much that freshmen year but I surprisingly had found that I missed it when I went back home after everything was settled between my parents. It had been strange to not see him everyday at school and have to deal with his more annoying qualities. Last night I had found that fact about him annoying once more but now I can only find myself amused by it.
Whatever you say, Thomas, whatever you say. To me it will always be a big deal. (Sent at 8:38 a.m.)
After that I set my phone down on the counter and went back to stretching to grab the large mixing bowl. Why does it have to be so high up?! Just because you’re a giant Maria doesn’t mean I am! Finally, with one last-ditch effort I wrapped my fingers around the rim of the bowl and pulled it down into my arms. With a sigh of relief, I placed the bowl down on the counter. I looked over to my phone as it dinged and lit up upon receiving another text. It said:
You are exaggerating, my dear. (Sent at 8:40 a.m.)
I rolled my eyes at his answer and picked up my phone. I once again tapped out a response on the keyboard and sent it.
I am not! Now shut up, I need to make waffles. (Sent at 8:41 a.m.)
After that I set my phone back down on the counter and got to work getting the ingredients needed to make two of my mother’s famous large waffles. The whole time after I sent that text I devoted all of my attention to my breakfast making, completely ignoring my phone whenever it would ding in notification for a new text. It appears that after the one response I got from Thomas all the texts that I got were from John. Most of them were asking what was going on. He was also wondering why I was responding to everyone but him. I especially ignored his texts, at the moment I just can’t stand John.
“Mmm, what smells so good?” Maria asked as she sleepily stumbled into the kitchen. “Perfect timing, I just finished putting everything on the plates and in our spots at the island.” I said with a smile. She rubbed at her eye with a yawn; she’s still in her pjs and as she rubbed at her eye her shirt lifted up exposing some of her stomach. Aw, why does my best friend have to be so cute! “What’d you make?” She asked as she sluggishly made her way over to the island. “Our favorite! It’s too, y’know, apologize for last night. I shouldn’t have snapped at you like that. I really am sorry, Maria.” I apologized, grabbing her hands in mine. What? It’s not weird for friends to hold hands.
“It’s fine, (Y/n), I shouldn’t have pressed you like that. Last night must have been terrifying for you and we were both upset and stressed. No harm was done so there’s no reason for you to apologize.” Maria said, gently squeezing my hands. It seems she’s much more awake now. “Oh! Is that your mom’s waffles and strawberry sauce, with sliced strawberries and peaches and whip cream?!” She asked, suddenly staring at the two plates that I took extra care to make look as aesthetically pleasing as possible. I let out a giggle, leave it to Maria to ruin a sweet moment with her undying love for food. I can’t judge her though, I get just as excited about food as she does. “Yes they are! Now come on, we should eat them before they get cool. I know from experience that cold waffles aren’t very good.”
John Laurens x Reader: Flowering Affections Chapter 6
A/n: Chapter 5 CHAPTER 7 IS HERE
Timeline: Modern
Warnings: None
Words: 2,662
Thomas not only drove me all the way back to my apartment building but went with me all the way up to my apartment. He claimed it was because he just wanted to make sure I made it safely, I have a feeling there was a bit more to the story. I have a feeling that he wanted to stay with me a bit longer. The whole way from the Brick House to my apartment building Thomas and I talked. We talked about our junior and senior years and what we’re majoring as and what college we go to. Thomas is majoring in politics and going to a college around forty minutes away from Brown University, the college I am attending, and my apartment. My apartment building isn’t all that far away from my college thankfully.
I’m so lucky that Thomas had decided to check out one of the bars that his friend, more like acquaintance, recommended. Luckily, the bar he decided to check out was the Brick House. Thomas had actually been in the bar at the same time I was and exited it maybe a few minutes after me. He has said things were getting way to stuffy in the building and needed a few minutes to cool down until he went back in. He had decided to take a little walk to cool down and ended up stumbling upon the situation between myself and that drunk man. Which then Thomas came to my rescue.
I had told Thomas how I went to the bar with five of my friends, one of which I was crushing on big time. Yes, I told him that. I told him that the main reason I even went was because John wanted me there. Yes, I also told him about John being the one I’m crushing on. In order for him to get the full story I told him everyone who was there and my relationship with them. I mentioned how I was close friends with Laf, Herc, and Alex. He already knew from earlier statements my status as very close friend with John. Then the fact that I was acquaintance friends with Eliza. Funny thing, Thomas knows Alex and apparently the two hate each other. Not too much of a surprise, due to his loud and very opinionated personality Alex is hard to like. I easily went through the events of the night with Thomas, all the way up to the very moment he saved me.
“I can’t thank you enough, Thomas. For both saving me and then giving me a lift home, more importantly for saving me.” I said as we stopped in front of my apartment door. “And I can’t tell you enough times that there’s no need to thank me. I would have done it for anyone, it’s just the right thing to do.” Thomas replied, a slight teasing smirk pulling at his lips.
“Shut up! I have to thank you. How could I not? If you hadn’t come along for all we know I could have been raped or, even worse, killed. I could have ended up like one of those women who just disappear and then months later show up dead in the middle of the woods, having been dead for who knows how long.” I protested, making sure to not speak too loudly. It’s three quarters after one and I know for certain my neighbors will not appreciate being woken up this early.
“Well, when you put it that way.” Thomas said, trailing off in thought. A moment passed and then two. “Nope, still don’t need to thank me. It wasn’t any trouble at all.” He concluded with a shrug of his shoulders. “You are unbelievable.” I commented but even as I said that I couldn’t keep the grin off my face. It truly is unbelievable that someone could just shrug off saving someone from something that could have ended in a murder. Leave it to Thomas to shrug it off like it was nothing.
“Well, I should probably head into my apartment, my roommate is probably still up. She’ll be wondering what’s going on, normally I give her an hourly update of how the night is going. It’s been two hours and I haven’t texted her once, she’ll be starting to worry.” I said, I’ve always been a bit awkward about ending a conversation and leaving. “Of course, of course, but first. Can I have your phone for a moment?” Thomas asked.
I nodded and handed him over my phone, having unlocked it beforehand. I watched in confusion as he tapped around for a moment before handing me back the phone. I looked down at the screen to see it opened up to my contacts app. On it was a new contact with Thomas’s name on it. He just entered his phone number into my phone. “If you have some free time your welcome to hang out with me. Or if you want to just talk feel free.” He said with a shrug. “Thanks, I will.” I said with a nod. With that I hugged him goodbye and entered my apartment.
“(Y/n), is that you?” Maria’s voice called out. From the sounds of things she was in the living area. “Yeah.” I answered while slipping out of my black heels. I was once again reminded as to why I never wear heels, they’re beyond uncomfortable. I placed my keys back into the glass bowl. I heard the familiar padding of sock-clad feet as Maria made her way to the small hall that leads into the doorway.
“You have nerve, y’know. You don’t text me for two hours and then you’re suddenly home. You best be ready to explain yourself.” Maria said with a glare but I could tell that she really wasn’t angry with me. Maybe a bit annoyed but not angry. Mostly she’s probably curious. She probably thinks something fun and exciting happened. I wish something had. This is really going to put a damper on her mood. “C’mon, I’ll tell you over ice cream.” I said, passing by her and heading for the kitchen. I have a feeling that I’m going to need it.
When I entered the living room I saw Maria looking at me in worry. Then again, why wouldn’t she. She knows that when I say that I’ll tell her something over ice cream something went wrong. I pretended to not notice her concerned stare and plopped down next to her on the couch. I hate it when people worry and fret over me. I pulled my legs onto the couch and crossed them Indian style. Leaning over, I placed the two tubs of ice cream that had been occupying my hands on the coffee table along with the two spoons.
“(Y/n), did something happen?” Maria asked, breaking the silence. I ignored her. I know it’s rude, but I couldn’t bring myself to answer. I couldn’t bring myself to talk, not yet. So I preoccupied myself with the ice cream. I peeled the tops off the tubs, setting them to the side, and stuck a spoon in each container. I looked at both flavors. Mint chocolate chip or strawberry. I mentally debated which one I wanted. I want something sweet and they both are sweet but strawberry is sweeter. I grabbed the mint chocolate chip tub and handed it to Maria, avoiding eye contact. Then I brought my tub of ice cream into my lap with both hands. I looked down at the cold dessert, noticing how the coolness radiated through the tub and onto my hands. I shivered.
I grasped my spoon and dug out some of the ice cream, shoving the whole thing in my mouth. I pulled the spoon out of my mouth and noticed the texture and flavor of the ice cream. It was smooth and tasted like strawberries as it should, maybe artificial but strawberries all the same. Minutes passed by in silence, Maria seemed to understand that I’m not ready to talk yet. Time ticked by and soon enough I was chilled and half of my pint of ice cream had been devoured. I reached behind me and pulled a fluffy throw from the back of the couch and around my shoulders.
I took a deep breath in and slowly let it out through my mouth. I was finally ready to talk. “Yes, Maria, something did happen.” I started, finally responding to her question that she had asked before. She stayed silent but nodded her head. I took in another breath, trying to think of what to say next. “Do you want to talk about it?” Maria asked, placing a hand on my shoulder. Even through the fluffy throw I could feel the cold on her hand seeping through to me. “Yes, but I don’t know where to start.” I responded then shoved another bite of ice cream into my mouth. I regretted it as a new shiver shook my body. “What better place to start than the beginning?”
Maria’s right. There is no better place to start than the beginning. “When we got to the Brick House I told John how the area made me uneasy. John reassured me everything was going to be okay and-”
“And promised that he would keep you safe. Oh, oops! Sorry for interrupting you.” Maria apologized. Her cheeks became a rosy color and she grinned at me sheepishly. I rolled my eyes before continuing my story. I had forgotten that I texted her about John’s promise.
“Everything went well for the next hour or so, the guys were drunk off their asses as usual. This time around I was watching John and Laf. Laf was easy enough to watch, as I’ve told you before he’s not too much of a handful when drunk. John, well, John’s a whole different story. He becomes extremely flirty and is willing to flirt with pretty much anything that has two legs. Due to that he ended up flirting with this one girl. Her name was Dawn, that bitch, and she was very obviously still sober. She had evil intentions, I know it. So, I went over to take care of John and get him away from her. Long story short she convinced him that there’s no way I’m his friend because I was spreading lies about obviously good people. In response to that John said some pretty hurtful things and I stormed out of the building.”
I thought it would be hard to start explaining things, but it turns out it wasn’t. Once I had gotten started nothing could stop me. Not even fear. It had taken a little while to explain anything, maybe ten minutes, but not once did I find myself having to stop. It was surprisingly easy to tell her everything that had gone on tonight. Not once did I find myself getting choked up or the words not forming. Everything came as natural as telling someone about the weather conditions.
“-That’s how I got back.” I said as I finished up recounting the events that had terrified me not only an hour ago. “Oh, I’m so glad you’re okay!” Maria exclaimed, throwing her arms around my neck and pulling me close. “I am too.” I whispered. “I’m so lucky Thomas was there. But even if he wasn’t and something happened it would have been my fault. I shouldn’t have let my emotions get the best of me.” I said, pulling away from the hug.
“(Y/n)! Don’t say that! Nothing that happened is your fault, no one’s to blame. And if someone has to take the blame it would be that pervert and John.” Maria said, some emotion lighting a flame in her eyes. “How could any of that be John’s fault?” I questioned, an eyebrow raising. “He promised you that he’d protect you. He should have kept good on that promise, even if it meant that he had to be more responsible and drink less. He shouldn’t have gotten drunk! If he hadn’t have gotten drunk you wouldn’t have stormed out and nothing of what happened would have happened.” Maria exclaimed. Ah, now I can understand what emotion she’s feeling. Even if she’s refusing to show it, she’s angry. Angry at John and angry at that pervert.
“Don’t blame John.” I sighed out. Blaming John won’t get me anywhere, it’ll only make things worse. Maria’s right about one thing. He should have kept his promise, therefore he should have never gotten drunk. We all make mistakes though, some maybe more than others. If anyone is to blame for this it’s me. That’s what it comes down to. I was the one who let their emotions get the best of them. I was the one who just straight up left. I was the one stupid enough to not pay attention to my surroundings.
“Then who’s fault is this?” Maria grumbled. Sounds about right. She always wants to make sure someone takes the blame for what happened and then get punished. I want to say myself but she’ll fight me on that. I’m in no mood to fight her about something that is very obviously my fault. “Well, as you said earlier, it’s that pervert’s fault. He’s to blame for what happened, not John.” I said whilst getting to my feet. “(Y/n), John is partially-” Maria started. She always did have a thing out for him. Never really liked him all that much, I’ve never been able to see why. Then again, I’m in love with the guy. She probably doesn’t like him because of how loud he can get.
“Maria, can we just drop the subject for now? I’m tired and I’m sure you are too.” I interrupted. It was rude of me, I know, but I really don’t want to continue this conversation. Sure, what happened was terrible. What almost happened was even more terrible, but nothing really did happen. I’m fine and that’s what matters. I doesn’t matter who’s fault it was in the long run. Why dwell on it then?
Maria looked up at me with what appeared to be a hurt expression, and I realized I did hurt her a bit. I shouldn’t have interrupted her. I felt a pang in my heart. I wanted to apologize, but I couldn’t. I couldn’t form the words and I knew Maria wouldn’t want an apology yet. She’d want a little bit of time to pass so she will be able to accept the apology when it comes. Maria looked down at her lap with a sigh. “Yeah, I guess you’re right.” She said quietly.
I had nothing more to say. What was there to say? I could apologize, but she wouldn’t be able to accept it and that would just make her feel worse. We’re not continuing our conversation. There really wasn’t much left to say. With that in mind I awkwardly bid her good night and made my way to my room. That’s the thing when it comes to arguments or hurting one another in some way things always get a bit awkward. Neither of us really know what to say and we don’t want to appear rude by just leaving. Normally we end up just awkwardly standing there watching one another until one of us muster the courage to leave.
When I was finally out of my somewhat uncomfortable outfit and in pajamas I settled down into my bed. I shimmied under the warm and soft covers and let out a content sigh. That’s what I love about going to bed. My sheets are always so welcoming and all my worries and cares just seem to float away. Just like always it didn’t take me long to fall into slumber with the influence of my warm covers and the faint lingering scent of the candle I normally have burning when working in here.
With one final content sigh I slipped off into a dreamless sleep.
John Laurens x Reader: Flowering Affections Chapter 1
A/n: I really don’t know what to say here..... I really liked how this one turned out though. Chapter 2 is here.
Timeline: Modern
Warnings: None
Words: 1,496
Perfection. We all know the word. Everybody wishes to be perfect: the perfect student, the perfect parent, perfect writer, perfect artist, even the perfect basketball player. They all strive to be perfect, and they all fail. When they fail most start to beat themselves up over it, when really there is nothing to be angry about. No one can be perfect, so why try so hard and be disappointed when you don’t achieve perfection? The most you can do for anything is to try your best. You can never be perfect, so why not be the best you can possibly attain. You may not be the perfect painter, but you do the best you can and that’s just fine. It’s okay to not be perfect at something, it’s okay to be just the best you can manage to be. I’m (Y/n) (L/n) and I’m not perfect, that’s just fine with me.
But why all this talk of perfection? Is there a reason I’m telling you all this? No, not really. It’s just my flower thoughts. Flower thoughts? What are flower thoughts? Well, they’re sort of like shower thoughts. You all know how you get those life changing thoughts while sitting in the shower. Flower thoughts are also like those thoughts you get before you fall asleep, the ones that momentarily change your thinking before you drift off into your own sleepy paradise or nightmare. Flower thoughts occur when you are sitting in a meadow just playing with the flowers, or watching them, smelling them. Flower thoughts are the thoughts that come to you when you just kind of lose all your cares while admiring the flowers.
I’m sorry, this probably is just confusing you. No one goes to meadows anymore. They’re all too busy inside working or just browsing the internet. They all are too concerned with the business of life to just take a step back and relax a bit in the warm summer air with a light breeze while they sit in a meadow. I’m not like that, not really. Sure, I get busy and get caught up in the commotion of life, but every now and then I like to just take a step back and admire life and think. Think about what? Think about anything of course.
That’s how I got on the topic of perfection. I had noticed how worried I was about being perfect all the time then came to the realization that not one person can be perfect. Not me, not you, not my professors, not my parents, not my friends, not one person. That doesn’t stop us from thinking some people are perfect. That doesn’t stop me from thinking some people are perfect. Now though, I think of perfection in a different light. No one is truly perfect, but some people seem perfect to us, even when we take into account their flaws. We see someone as perfect, even though we realize they make mistakes just like us. Those people are perfect to us, even with their flaws, even if they aren’t perfect to everybody else. We can see friends and family as perfect, but more seriously we can see people we are attracted to as perfect in every way, even with their flaws they are perfect to us. There is even someone like that for me. That man’s name is John Laurens. To me, even with his flaws, he is perfect.
John goes to the same college as me and is majoring in marine biology. I’m majoring as a psychiatrist. The only reason I met John was because we share the same Biology class. Technically I didn’t meet John in the classroom, I met him at the campus library. I had been doing research for a paper I need to have done by the end of two weeks. I had been stressing because the paper was counting as half of my grade for the quarter.
I had been at the library to pick up some books I needed for the paper and then planned to work on the paper with my laptop at one of the tables, preferably one that would allow me to sit in the warm sunlight. Unfortunately, I hadn’t been able to get two of the books because they were too high up for me to reach. John had been passing by as I once again stood as far up on my toes as I could. He saw me struggling and decided to come over and offer some help. I gladly accepted seeing that it would spare me some time. I know, cliche, right? But I guess some things in life just simply are cliche.
Another cliche occured that same moment. John had asked if we had ever met before, I looked very familiar to him. I responded that I thought we shared the same class, even though I knew we did. I didn’t want him to think of me as weird and freaky for remembering him from a class of over fifty. So, I let him think I just vaguely remembered him. He had listed off the names of some of the professors he had but none of them matched with mine, until he mentioned Professor Bros. I’m not kidding, my Biology professor’s name is Professor Bros, that’s his actual last name. I had gotten a kick out of it when I saw his name. I had imagined him to be a more laid back teacher, I was wrong he was the strictest teacher I had and he didn’t take any bullshit from anyone. John and I conversed a little longer, totally not mentioning how much of a hardass Professor Bros was when it came to teaching and grading, before going our separate ways.
Here I am, sitting in a meadow, and once again my thoughts have drifted off to John. more specifically when we met. My thoughts wandered from that occurence to what he is actually like, physically and personality wise.
Physically John is, well, handsome. I don’t know how else to perfectly describe him. His skin tone is constantly tanned, as though he was working out in the sun constantly, which he probably was during his summers back in South Carolina. His eyes remind me of caramel and all his freckles remind me of constellations. Even though he comes from a hot and humid state and it’s not quite in fashion he’s grown his brown and curly hair out a little past his shoulders, he always has it tied back in a low ponytail. Sure, there’s plenty of men out there who have grown their hair out long, but a lot of them just don’t look good with long hair. John, however, is not one of those men.
He is a bit on the loud side, especially when around friends, and very passionate about his beliefs. Unless someone gets on his nerves or the situation is serious he always seems to have a smile on his face. Back to the point about his beliefs, he will fight you if you say he’s wrong. He will fight you and tell you why he’s right and why you should shut your mouth, especially if what you said was racist. Don’t get me wrong though, John is not mean. He’s far from it actually. He’s kind and friendly. C’mon, he likes turtles, especially tiny baby ones. His friends, which I am now included as one, have literally seen him cry over a baby turtle he saw. In his words. “It’s just too cute and precious.”
I let out a dreamy sigh as I wondered how I managed to even become friends with John. Why would he want to be friends with me? Why would he want to be seen around me? Those are two questions that always nag at me. Those questions always end up answered with cruel thoughts. Yeah, why? There’s nothing special about you. You’re just a nobody that comes from a little town in Florida that no one has ever even heard of. You’ve always been a nobody and you always will be.
I sadly looked down at the flowers that were swaying in the light breeze. I focused on a dainty yellow tulip. Tulips have always been my favorite kind of flower, but not even seeing my favorite flowers can seem to lighten up my thoughts. I absentmindedly reached out and gently dragged my finger over the yellow and soft petal.
I was startled out of my thoughts by a loud, abrasive ringing. I looked down at my lap to see my phone was the cause of the noise. Picking up the phone I looked for who was calling me. It was John. I felt a smile flicker across my lips. No matter how many times he’s called me I still get a giddy feeling and become happy to know he is calling me. I swiped my thumb over the answer button and lifted the phone to my ear.
John Laurens x Reader: Flowering Affections Chapter 3
A/n: You can find chapter two here. You could also scroll down to the bottom of this post to the tags and click on either the #flowering affections or #hamiltime’soriginaljohnfic and you’ll find both of the chapters I’ve written there. CHAPTER 4 IS HERE!!!
Timeline: Modern
Warnings: Swearing
Words: 1,868
We made it to the Brick House somewhere around 11:40. The moment I had stepped foot outside of the car I shivered. For two reasons. It was slightly chilly and the breeze that had existed earlier had picked up. On top of it I had forgotten how much this place made me uneasy. We were so close to downtown and there’s so many creeps that like to hang out around here. That’s why you’d never catch me going here alone or even with another girl. The only times I’ll ever come here is when I’m with John and the other boys, I only feel safe here with them. If I’m being completely honest though being with just John would make me feel safe too.
Our group of six steadily made our way to the entrance. Alex and Laf were in the lead, John, Herc, and Eliza were in the middle and I was bringing up the rear. I noticed John looking back at me, confusion on his face. He slowed down and fell in step with me. “You okay?” He asked. “Hm? Yeah, I’m fine. What’d made think something is wrong?” I answered, raising an eyebrow. “Don’t lie to me, (Y/n). I can tell something’s bugging you.” John said with a tiny glare. I let out a sigh as I realized there was no getting out of telling him. “This place just makes me a bit nervous that’s all. So many creeps like to hang around here and we’re so close to downtown.” I explained, looking away in slight embarrassment. “You don’t have to worry about anyone bothering you, (Y/n). I promise that I’ll keep you safe. No one will bother you in any way.” John assured, placing a hand on my shoulder. I smiled at the promise. “I’m going to hold you to that you know.” I said, my tone slightly teasing but he knew I meant it. “Oh, I’m sure you will.”
Upon walking into the Brick House I felt like I was hit with a wall. The smell of beer and other alcoholic beverages was overwhelming. There was plenty of people packed into the building and the music was as loud as it was in any other bar. So basically it was your typical bar scene, just a lot more shady people were here than at you average bar. One of the first things I noticed was that the air felt hot and sticky in the building; it was so overwhelming that I considered turning right back around and waiting it out in the car. I wasn’t going to do that though, I wanted to spend this time with my friends. So, if I have to spend a few hours in a hot building with many shady characters I’ll do it.
While Laf and Herc left to get the first round of drinks, John, Alex, Eliza, and I went to get a table. Sure, we probably all wouldn’t spend our time there, but at least one or two of us are going to have to be responsible. Normally the role of responsibility falls on Eliza and myself or Laf and myself. Seeing that Eliza’s here she’s going to probably end up helping me keep an eye on everyone. Then I’m probably going to end up being the one to drive us all safely back to our respective places. Because Eliza and I have to be the responsible ones we aren’t going to be drinking a lot. Knowing me, I’m probably going to drink very little from my glass and end up giving the rest of it to Herc. I’m going to want to be completely sober when driving and once I start really drinking I don’t stop until I’m wasted unfortunately.
It didn’t take long for all the guys to become drunk off their asses. That’s when Eliza’s and my job really started. We had to keep an eye on all four guys, we split them into groups of two. Eliza would watch Alex and Herc and I would watch John and Laf. I was very careful to not let the two out of my sight, which proved to be more difficult than you think it would be. Laf would wander around drunkenly trying to keep the other guys in line and John became a wandering hopeless romantic. That’s why Eliza normally deals with Alex and John, I couldn’t stand to watch John drunkenly flirt with other girls. I mean, it’s not like we’re a couple and he’s a grown man who can flirt with who ever the hell he wants but it makes my blood boil to see him flirt with all those women when drunk.
Laf fortunately proved to not be too much of a hassle tonight but John on the other hand was just as much as a handful as normal, maybe even more. Honestly, when watching the guys I don’t really bother leaving my spot at the table and just keep an eye on them from a distance. The only time I really leave my seat is when I have to stop one of the guys from doing something that only a stupid drunk would do.
I watched, seething, as John flirted with yet another girl. Sure, he didn’t really realize what he was doing in his drunken state but it still made me angry beyond belief. With every new girl he flirted with, with every pickup line he used, every flirtatious smile or wink my nerves became even more fried. I know I shouldn’t get so riled up over something so trivial but I can’t help it. I feel so possessive of him, even though he’s not mine. John is a grown man who can make his own decisions and flirt with anyone he wants because he’s not in a relationship with anyone, which obviously means he’s not in a relationship with me.
I finally had enough when one girl got a little too close and touchy. This girl was obviously still sober, maybe slightly tipsy, and could see that John was drunk. Yet she still practically threw herself all over him. I abruptly stood up from my seat and stormed over to the two. I pulled the girl off of him and made sure to put myself in between the two of them. The girl glared at me, not seeming to like the fact that she was just ripped off some easy prey.
“Who are you?” The girl snapped, her glare just becoming nastier by each second passing. I was about to open my mouth and reply with that I’m John’s friend and don’t appreciate her being all over him, especially since he was obviously drunk and not fully aware of everything that’s happening. John beat me to it though. “She’s a friend of mine. What’s wrong (Y/n), Dawn is really nice?” At that the girl, who I now know as Dawn, smirked.
I sighed and turned around to face John. “John, I know she may seem really nice to you but she very obviously is not. The only reason you can’t realize this is because you are drunk. Believe me though, she can see that and she’s looking out to take advantage of your drunken state.” I gently explained, placing a hand on his shoulder. He looked back and forth between me and this Dawn chick, confusion on his face. “Is that true, Dawn?” John asked innocently. I wanted to slap my palm to my face at that question. “No, I think your friend is not really your friend though if she’s lying to you like that.” Dawn said, her voice sickly sweet, how disgusting.
John let out a sound of disgust and stared down at me in horror. Don’t tell me he believes this bitch, I thought. “Dawn’s right (Y/n), you really aren’t my friend. If you were you wouldn’t lie to me about nice people like Dawn. I think you should go, (Y/n).” He said, he sounded heart broken. “John, are you kidding me? She’s-” I started to say but was rudely interrupted by Dawn. “You heard him, he said you should go.” Dawn said, a proud smirk on her face. I glared at her and gave her both of my middle fingers, mouthing ‘fuck you’. With that I turned around and stormed through the crowds to the exit.
The cool night air helped soothe my nerves the very moment I stepped out of the hot and stuffy building. I took in a deep, long breath of the sweet cool air. As I let it out I wrapped my arms around myself. Even if I wasn’t cold it was comforting. Even though John didn’t really realize what he was saying, he’s quite the delirious drunk, it still really hurt to hear him say something like that.
I stood out in the cold for a few more minutes pondering what had happened. I really probably shouldn’t have left John alone with that predatory bitch. I probably should head back in and deal with the problem, but the more I thought about it the more I really didn’t want to do it. What if John got angry when I came back? I didn’t want that to happen. I know that drunk or sober he would never do anything to hurt me but I don’t want to cause any problems.
Eventually I came to the conclusion of just leaving instead of sticking around. Eliza would realize soon enough that I wasn’t watching John or Laf and pick of the slack, even though she would have no idea where I went. It’s fine though, I’m sure she can handle all four of them and that she wouldn’t worry too much about me, I can take care of myself. Although, I do feel a bit guilty about just leaving like this. I just can’t stay here any longer though, all I want is to go home, complain a bit to Maria, and then go to bed. I would call John and see how smoothly things went the rest of the night tomorrow morning. At least then I wouldn’t be feeling too hurt by his words or pissy at that disgusting girl, Dawn.
I slowly started walking away from the building. I walked past all the parked cars and started off down the sidewalk. I would walk to the nearest gas station then call Maria or someone else to pick me up. Maybe Theodosia, she lives a bit closer to here than where Maria and I live. Theodosia is one of my friends and she’s dating one of Alex’s other friends. I’ve known Theodosia ever since my first year here at college. She’s nice and wouldn’t mind too much having to picking me up.
I was so caught up in my thought that I wasn’t as aware of things as I should have been. I should have been acting extremely careful, I am very close to a more shady part of town. But, I was foolishly was caught up in my thoughts and walked right into a dangerous situation. I let out a scream as I was dragged into an alleyway and pinned against one of the walls.
John Laurens x Reader: Flowering Affections Chapter 5
A/n: Chapter 4 here CHAPTER 6 IS HERE!!
Timeline: Modern
Warnings: Swearing
Words: 1,085
The man looked over his shoulder, his hand falling from my hair and back to my waist. At least he wasn’t pulling on my hair anymore. “Who the hell are you?” The man asked, someone was obviously there and it wasn’t a figment of my imagination. “Why don’t you answer my question? What are you doing? That woman doesn’t want you on her.” The other man’s voice was smooth, calm. It sounded like this was just another everyday occurrence he deals with. “Mind your own business man!” The man that was holding me shouted. “But this is my business, I’ve made it my business. Let go of that poor woman.”
I heard footsteps approaching, but the man held his ground. This guy obviously doesn’t care if he might get into a fight. I hope that if it comes down to it this new man will fight. “Please, help me. Get him off me.” I said quietly as the new man came into view. I don’t know why, but this new man looks familiar, maybe we went to the same high or grade school.
“Did you hear that? She wants you off of her.” The new man’s tone was much softer than before but it sounded much more threatening. “Back off!” The man that still had a tight grip on me yelled. That was a mistake. The new man seemed to lose his patience. In one swift movement I safely hidden behind the new man and the other one was knocked straight on his ass. The other man sat up with a groan, blood flooding down from his nose. “Ugh- What the hell?” The man said, seeming disorientated. He slowly started to notice the blood that was flowing from his nose. “What did you do to me?!” The man angrily asked. He couldn’t tell? Maybe he’s a bit more intoxicated than he appears. “Oh calm down, it’s just a bloody nose. Now, get out of here before I do something worse.” The man that protected me said with a scary amount of nonchalance. Maybe he does deal with stuff like this everyday. The other man grumbled a bit before getting to his feet and stumbling away, back the way we had come.
When he was finally out of sight I turned to the man who so kindly helped me. I came to discover that he’s been watching me, probably this whole time. Probably noticing that that made me uncomfortable he quickly apologized. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to stare. You just- seem very familiar. Have we ever met?” The man asked. Oh, so he’s not the only one who noticed it. “Funny thing, I was about to ask you that question.” I said, noting how my heart rate was finally starting to reduce down to its normal speed. “My name is (Y/n) (L/n), what’s your name?”
“(Y/n) (L/n).” The man whispered, seeming to think the name over. Looking into the depths of his mind for a (Y/n) (L/n) he might have known, or maybe might have only met. “Oh right, (Y/n)! For a year we went to high school together in Virginia! You moved out to live with your grandparents for a year while your parents sorted things out before and after their divorce. I’m Thomas, do you remember me now?” The man said with a snap of his fingers. Now that he mentions all that I do remember him.
“Thomas! Holy shit! It’s been forever!” I excitedly exclaimed, throwing my arms around his neck. I haven’t seen him since tenth grade and I’m already in my second year of college now. It’s been at least four years since I have seen him. Even though we didn’t keep in touch when I moved back to Florida doesn’t mean I didn’t appreciate his friendship. He introduced me to a bunch of people at the school, which includes his friends, showed me around the town we lived in, and was always there for me no matter what. He was there for me if I was getting bullied, was just having a bad day, or just really upset about what was going on with my parents.
I pulled away with a giggle. He hasn’t seemed to change much physically or personality-wise very much. He was still as defensive and ready for a fight as he was back in tenth grade. He’s definitely grown, I’m no longer the taller one, and he’s definitely seems to have become stronger, more fit than he used to be. Other than that he seemed to be the same Thomas that I knew four or so years ago. His hair was still black, curly and poofy, he never really did care to do anything about the poof, and his dark eyes still sparkled with a slight mischievousness.
“(Y/n), are you okay? He didn’t get to do anything to you did he?” Thomas asked, his tone quiet and eyes shining with worry and sincerity. “Yes, thanks to you. All he really did was scare me.” I assured with a smile. What I said is true, all he really did was scare me. He didn’t get the chance to do much else.
“What on earth were you doing out here all alone?” I looked up to see that Thomas seemed to be really worried. That brought back to my attention John and that bi- woman Dawn. That started to rekindle my anger but I refused to let it get far. I refused to let it get the best of me and cause me to snap at Thomas. “Oh, I was just at a bar, the Brick House, with a few friends and one of them pissed me off, which caused me to leave. I decided I was just going to go home instead of sticking around. Which you can see was a pretty bad idea.” I said with a fake nonchalance, waving my hand as though the matter was trivial. In reality though it was anything but trivial to me.
“If you want, I could give you a ride home. It’d be much safer than walking.” Thomas offered. It was such a kind offer and I couldn’t really deny the fact that it would indeed be safer. After what just happened it would be insane for me to think that it was safe to walk home, or more like to the nearest gas station and call Theo. I don’t want to have to wake her up. Even if we are friends that’s a bit rude.
John Laurens x Reader: Flowering Affections Chapter 4
A/n: Chapter 3 here CHAPTER 5 IS HERE
Timeline: Modern
Warnings: Possibly triggering theme?, nothing really happens though
Words: 1,115
I stared up in fear at the man that had pinned me to the wall. The man absolutely reeked of alcohol, he’s been drinking. For all I know he came from the very bar I was just at, that I just left. For all I know this man saw me leave the bar and followed me out without me knowing. For all I know he had realized me to be easy prey with the state I was in. I really should have been paying more attention to my surroundings. I was just so frustrated and caught up in my emotions and thoughts. That was obviously a mistake. I shouldn't’ have let my emotions get the best of me. I shouldn’t have stormed out of the bar like that, leaving Eliza to deal with all four of our drunk friends. I really shouldn’t have been walking all alone this late at night, this close to that bad part of town.
“L-Let go of me!” I stuttered, trying to push the man away, he didn’t budge in the slightest. For a drunk man he had an exceptionally good sense of balance. Oh, no no no no no, this is not good! Not good at all! Honestly, this is just my luck too. I leave a bar on my own, assuming everything is going to be fine, and I get dragged into an alley by a drunk man and probably raped and maybe even killed.
The man got closer to me, too close. His breath that reeked of alcohol fanned over my face. I struggled a bit more. I wish I would have just sucked it up and went back into the Brick House. As I struggled my heart raced out of control, my breathing came in short quick breaths. I started to break out in a cold sweat. My thoughts were racing back and forth, trying to find some plausible solution to my current problem. That’s when I realized, I was panicking. I wasn’t thinking straight, I wasn’t thinking logically. I wasn’t thinking and looking for any plausible ways of escape. I needed to calm down, and I needed to calm down fast.
“Calm down, I’m not going to hurt you. I just want to have some fun.” The man said, or at least tried to say. With how intoxicated he is his words came out slurred. “I don’t care if you want to have fun! Let go of me!” I demanded shoving the man once more. He momentarily lost balance but not long enough for me to escape. I internally groaned, pushing and shoving is obviously not going to work very well. I was finally starting to calm down, but I was still in panic mode. At least my thoughts weren’t racing, I once more had control over those.
I could scream but either no one would hear me or no one would care enough to help me. I could continue to struggle and shove, that’s not working very well for me at the moment. I could try to talk him out of doing whatever he’s thinking of doing. I have a feeling that’s not going to work. I could struggle some more, use different tactics. Not just shove. Maybe if I-
His hands started roaming my body. This foreign man decided he could put his hands on my body, without my permission! What happened next I had no control over, it kind of just happened. One moment my hands were pushing on the man’s shoulders and the next one was flying across his face. The man yelped and stumbled away. Yes! I finally have a chance at escape. Wasting no time, I made a run for it.
It took a few moments for the man to fully realize what had happened. The man roared in anger and I soon enough heard his feet pounding on the sidewalk behind me. Oh, so he’s one of those drunks. The flip drunk. One moment he’s fine, the next he’s the epitome of wrath. I looked over my shoulder, even though he was stumbling quite a bit he managed to keep up. In fact, he managed to gain on me. I picked up my pace.
Why did this happen to me? Why not someone else? I wouldn’t want this to happen to anyone ever but why does it have to happen to me? My night has already been terrible enough, does this man have to make it worse? This straight up sucks. I hope I can lose him soon, but with how my luck has been I probably won’t be able to. I feels like this is going to go on until one of us gets too tired to keep going. Hopefully it will be the man.
Suddenly, I felt arms wrap around me and I knew it was over. He had gained enough on me to grab me. “No!” I shouted, trying to peel his arms away from me as they pulled me into him. Soon enough I was pushed flush against him. Once again I started struggling. I refuse to let him do a thing to me. I pinched and twisted, kicked and screamed, wiggled and tried to let myself drop. None of those things seemed to work though. The man’s grip just got tighter and stronger the more I struggled.
“You little bitch! Do you really think you’re going to be able to get away with slapping me?!” The man growled into my ear. “Let.” I demanded through clenched teeth, pinching his arms with my nails as hard as I could. “Go.” I twisted the skin on his arms. “Of.” I stomped on his foot. “Me!” I once against stomped on his foot, putting all the force I could. I felt the man wince and tense up, he tightened this hold on me. I don’t understand. Why won’t anything I do work?
One of his arms left my waist, that didn’t give me any better chances of escaping. His hand tangled itself in my hair and harshly pulled down on it. Those of you who have younger siblings know what it’s like when one of them got a tight hold on your hair and pulled down as hard as they could when you were younger. His grip was like that but tenfold. I winced, but none the less kept kicking and squirming. “You are not going anywhere.” The man asserted, pulling down on my hair even more than before. Oh, how I would love to return the favor but what hair he has is far too short to pull.
“What do you think you’re doing? The woman obviously does not appreciate you being all over her.”
