#jess oc

[cat-brrr]

Hm wrk

[schoolspiritsfan14]

Treat You Better 💙❤️

Part 24: The Wedding

Maddie x Wally

Warnings and info: everyone is Alive AU, set in 2023-24 (in line with the show), swearing, underage drinking, assault , buckle in this is a long chapter

Summary: With the tension between Wally and Edward not fading any time soon, can Wally put his differences aside for the wedding or will that tension cause problems?

Masterlist

When Maddie and Wally got home that evening, they went straight to their room. Wally didn’t want to face anyone. He just wanted to hide away for the rest of the night. Maddie didn’t push him to talk. She didn’t even try. She knew better. He’d talk when he was ready. And when he did, she’d be there – just like he had always been for her.

Wally barely slept that night. He tossed and turned until he eventually drifted off, only to wake up again at 6:55am. He couldn’t fall back to sleep, so he slipped out of bed carefully not to wake Maddie and stepped out onto the balcony, watching the start of the sunrise. He took a deep breath, the crisp ocean air filling his lungs.  

A moment later, he heard the soft creak of the balcony door behind him. Maddie stepped out, wrapped in a blanket.

“Hey,” he said, glancing over. “What are you doing up?”

“You left the door open,” she said, pulling the blanket tighter around herself.  “The cold woke me up.” 

“Shit, sorry.”

Maddie looked at him. “You look freezing. Do you want me to grab the other blanket?”

Wally shook his head slightly. “No. I have a better idea.” He reached for her hand and gently pulled her down to his lap, the blanket shifting to cover both of them. “That’s better.”

Maddie smiled softly. “Yeah… this works too.” 

For a while they sat in silence. The sound of waves rolling onto the shore filled the air as the sky shifted into soft shades of gold and orange. They stayed like that until the sun had fully risen. 

“I’m gonna go for a quick run before breakfast,” Wally said eventually. “Then we can head into the city and find something to wear for the wedding.” 

Maddie nodded. “Okay. I’m going to take a shower.” She leaned in, brushing her lips softly against his before standing. 

The steady rhythm of his footsteps against the pavement gave Wally something to focus on, something other than the constant loop of thoughts running through his head. The argument from the night before replayed in fragments – his dad’s voice, the way he’d dismissed everything, like Wally didn’t even know his own mind. And then the wedding. Sitting there, watching his dad marry another woman. Meeting people he was supposed to call family. The thought alone made his chest tighten. But somewhere in the middle of it all, Maddie’s voice cut through. Calm, steady, certain. You can do this. He held onto that as he ran, letting it ground him.

By the time Wally got back to the house, the morning was already well underway. Sunlight spilled through the windows as he stepped inside, the cool air of the house replacing the lingering warmth from his run. 

Maddie sat at the island with Jess and Izzy, the three of them mid-conversation. Maddie looked up when Wally walked into the kitchen.  

“How was your run?” she asked. 

Wally grabbed an apple from the fruit bowl before replying. “Good. It helped to clear my head.”

“Ew,” Izzy said, shuddering. “You’re one of those people who runs for fun and not because they have to?”

A small smile tugged at Wally’s mouth.

Before anyone could respond, Edward and Mallory entered the kitchen. 

“Morning,” Mallory said. “You two were out pretty late last night. We didn’t even hear you come in.” 

“Umm, yeah.” Maddie said. “We had dinner and went to the movies.”

“Oh, how… nice.” 

She then glanced at Jess and Izzy. “Have you two picked out your dresses yet?”

Jess shook her head slightly. “Not yet.”

Maddie looked between them. “Wait - aren’t you guys bridesmaids?”

Mallory let out a light laugh, waving a hand dismissively. “Oh no, I’ve got my girlfriends as bridesmaids. We’ve all known each other for years.” 

Jess forced a small smile before taking a sip of her tea. Izzy just rolled her eyes, subtle and quick. 

“Right,” Maddie said softly.

Edward grabbed two protein bars from the cupboard, passing one to Mallory before turning to Wally. “You and Maddie should go with the girls today. Get to know each other.” 

Wally glanced at him. There was something almost smug in his expression- like he wasn’t even sorry for what he’d said the night before. like it hadn’t happened at all. 

“Okay,” he said simply. He turned to Maddie. “I’m going to shower.”

She nodded. “Okay,” 

Without another word, he left the kitchen. 

Izzy watched him go before muttering under her breath, just loud enough for Jess and Maddie to hear, “God, Edward is a dick.”

Jess exhaled quietly but didn’t argue. 

“Come on, Ed. The trainer will be here soon.” Mallory said, already moving toward the hall. Edward followed without another glance. 

 Maddie blinked. “Uh… trainer?” 

“Yep,” Izzy said. “They’ve gotta be in ‘tip-top shape’ for the big day.”

“They’ve got a full home gym and everything,” Jess added. 

“Of course they do.” Maddie muttered, rolling her eyes. She pushed herself up from the stool. “I should probably go get ready. And- sorry Edward kind of forced us into your shopping plans. We really don’t have to-”

“Don’t be silly,” Jess cut in. “We know where to go around here and more importantly, where not to go.” 

“Okay,” Maddie said, smiling. “We’ll be down in a bit.”

Not long after, they were out of the house and heading deeper into Malibu. The drive itself was short, the ocean stretching alongside them as they followed the winding coastal road. Sunlight reflected off the water, bright and endless, completely different to the grey skies Maddie and Wally left behind in Split River.

Jess pulled into the parking lot of an open-air shopping centre not far from the beach. The whole place felt different from anything Wally and Maddie were used to back home – palm trees lined the walkways, storefronts opened out onto sunlit paths, and everything carried that relaxed, effortless California feel. 

They wandered throughout the shopping centre for a while, passing store after store filled with dresses and suits that were definitely out of their price range. 

Izzy stopped in front of one window, staring at a dress for a second before scoffing. “Yeah no. I’m not spending that much on something I’ll probably only wear once.”

Jess glanced at the price tag and winced slightly. “Same.”

Maddie let out a small laugh. “Okay, good. I thought it was just me.”

Wally looked between them. “So, we’re all collectively broke.”

“Yep,” Izzy said. “And mommy dearest won't pay for it either. Which means we’re not shopping here.” 

She turned, already scanning the street. Then her eyes lit up. “Oh-there.” She pointed across the street. A smaller shop sat tucked between two larger stores, the front window filled with mismatched racks of clothes and a slightly faded sign hanging above the store.

Jess glanced across the street. “Now that is something I can afford.”

The bell above the door jingled as they stepped inside. Racks of clothes were packed tightly together, everything from casual wear to formal squeezed into every corner. 

“Okay,” Izzy said, already moving. “This is where the real finds are.” Jess headed toward another rack, more focused. “You just need to know where to look.” 

Maddie smiled to herself as she started flipping through hangers, the fabric brushing against her fingers. 

Jess and Izzy had already gathered a few options, dresses draped over their arms as they moved through the racks with ease. Meanwhile, Maddie and Wally lingered a little longer, still flipping through the hangers and taking their time. 

“Okay, I’m done looking,” Izzy said finally, shifting the dresses in her arms. “We should go try these on.” 

Jess nodded, already turning toward the back of the store. “Yeah, before you change your mind five more times.” 

“Rude,” Izzy muttered, though she was already heading toward the fitting rooms. 

The fitting rooms were small, tucked into the back corner of the store with slightly crooked mirrors and curtains that didn’t fully close.

Izzy stepped into one of them, the curtain stopping short. “Jess, can you hold this over a bit more?”

Jess grabbed the edge of the curtain and held it closer to the wall for more coverage. 

Maddie hung up a few options in the next dressing room as Wally found a simple light- coloured suit jacket with matching pants. 

 A moment later, Izzy had tried on her dress options, finally deciding on one. “Okay, I’m ready.” Izzy said. 

Jess stepped back and pulled back the curtain aside as Izzy walked out in a light green dress that fitted neatly through the bodice before falling into a flowing skirt, the puff sleeves adding just enough attitude to make it unmistakably Izzy’s. 

“I think this is the one,” she said, spinning once on the spot. 

“It’s so cute.” Jess said, as Maddie and Wally walked over. 

“It suits you, Izzy.” Wally added, dropping onto the small couch near the dressing rooms.

Izzy smiled. “Did you find anything, Maddie?”

Maddie glanced at the dresses hanging beside her. “I think so. I have a few options.” 

“The curtains don’t fully close, so you’ll have to get Wally to hold it.” Jess said. 

“And no peeking,” Izzy called as she disappeared back into her dressing room. “I don’t care if you’re dating - I don’t want to hear my future stepbrother talk like that.” 

Wally blinked, caught off guard as Maddie tried (and failed) to hold in a laugh.

“Don’t worry, Izzy.” Maddie said. “We wouldn’t do that to you.” 

A few minutes later, Izzy finished changing, stepping out of the dressing room. Jess slipped inside straight after, Izzy holding the curtain for her. 

Maddie stepped in the other dressing room, while Wally held the curtain in place. 

A moment later, Izzy glanced over at Wally. “Are you going to find a tie to go with that suit?” she asked.

“I don’t-”

“You’re wearing a tie, Wally.” Maddie cut in from behind the curtain. “If I have to wear a dress, you have to wear a tie.”

Wally laughed. “Okay, okay. Have you found a dress you like yet?” 

“No,” Maddie said. “I’ve tried on two so far.” 

“Okay. I’m ready, Izzy.” Jess said. 

Izzy stepped back as Jess pulled open the curtain, stepping out in a light blue dress. It was simple and elegant, fitted at the top with thin straps before falling into a soft, flowing skirt that moved effortlessly as she walked. 

“That was quick,” Izzy said. “How many did you even try on?”

“This is the second one,” Jess said, glancing at herself in the full-length mirror. “It just… feels right.”

Izzy rolled her eyes. “That’s rude. I tried on like six before I found mine.” She held up the dress draped over her arm.

Jess laughed softly, giving herself one last look in the mirror. 

Maddie poked her head out of the dressing room beside them. “It’s really pretty, Jess.” 

Wally nodded. “Yeah, it’s nice.” 

Jess turned slightly toward Maddie. “Have you found something?”

“Uh,” Maddie said, “the dress I have on now is a possibility. I’m just not sure.”

“Well, that’s what we're here for,” Jess said with a smile.

Maddie smiled back.  “Thanks.” 

She pulled back the curtain and stepped out of the dressing room. The dress was soft and light, a pale pink that caught the light with every moment. It fitted neatly at the top before falling into layered, uneven ruffles that cascaded around her legs. 

“Maddie,” Jess said softly. “It’s perfect.”

 Maddie glanced down at the dress, running her fingers over the ruffles. “You think?”

“Absolutely.” Izzy said. Then she looked at Wally. “What do you think?”

Wally just stared at Maddie. For a second, he couldn’t even find the words. The way the dress fell around her so effortlessly, the way it moved when she did- he couldn’t look away. He was completely captivated. 

Izzy snapped her fingers in front of his face. “Uh, earth to Wally?”

Wally shook his head. “I’m sorry -what?”

“I asked what do you think of Maddie’s dress?” Izzy repeated.

“It’s perfect, Mads.” Wally said, his voice softer now. “You look beautiful.”

Maddie smiled, glancing down shyly. It was the first time that she’d ever seen at a loss for words, and something about it made her feel warm, almost giddy. 

“Okay,” Jess said, breaking the moment. “Now we just need shoes, accessories- and a tie for Wally.” 

“Hang on,” Izzy said, disappearing back between the racks. A few minutes later, she returned holding up a pale pink tie. 

“This will go with your suit,” she said, handing it to Wally “And it just so happens to match the colour of Maddie’s dress.”

Wally took it, eyeing the colour. “Does it have to be pink?”

“Oh, toughen up, princess.” Izzy said, rolling her eyes. “I know fashion. This works.”

Maddie glanced at him. “It couldn’t hurt to try it all together.”

Wally smiled slightly. “Okay. But I’m doing it for you - not because I’m scared of what Izzy might do.”

“You should be.” Izzy said with a grin. 

Maddie laughed. “Does she remind you of anyone?”

Wally nodded. “She’s literally Rhonda.”

Izzy looked between them, confused. “I’m choosing to take that as a compliment.” 

Jess and Maddie changed back into their clothes. By the time they stepped out, Izzy and Jess had already started moving through the racks again, picking out shoes and accessories. 

Maddie lingered behind with Wally, one hand lightly holding the edge of the curtain. 

A moment later, Wally called out. “I don’t know about this… maybe I should find something else?”

“There was nothing else in your size, babe.” Maddie reminded him. “Just let me see. Jess and Izzy aren’t here - it’s just me.” 

Wally hesitated for a second before pulling the curtain aside. The suit fit him cleanly, light in colour and sitting across his shoulders. The white shirt kept it simple, while the soft pink tie brought everything together. It worked. 

“Okay, I hate to admit this,” Wally said, glancing down at himself, “Izzy was right about the tie.” 

Before Maddie could respond, Izzy and Jess returned. 

“I always am,” Izzy said, arms full of shoes and accessories. “There is a reason when I get to college I’m studying fashion.”

“You’d get along great with our friend Dawn,” Maddie said, glancing over at her. “She’s applied to a school in LA.” 

“I like her already.”

 Wally looked over at Maddie. “So… this looks okay?” 

“It’s perfect, Wally,” she said smiling.

He turned toward the mirror, taking in the full look. “I like it. And bonus- the tie matches your dress.”

“And the shoes you brought from home will work with it too.” Maddie added

“Oh yeah,” Wally said. “Then it really is perfect then.”

He stepped back into the dressing room. A few moments later, he re-emerged, the suit draped over his shoulder. 

Together, they made their way to the register. The elderly woman behind the counter smiled as they approached. “You were very respectful back there,” she said kindly. “Not many people are.”

Maddie smiled politely. “Of course.”

She rang up their items, chatting lightly as she worked. “People come in, make a mess, leaving things everywhere… it’s nice to see otherwise.” By the time she finished, she glanced up at them again, her expression softening. “I gave each of you a little discount.”

Izzy’s eyes lit up. “Okay, I love you.”

Jess laughed under her breath. 

“Thank you,” Maddie said warmly.

“Have a good day,” the woman said with a smile

“You too,” Wally replied. 

February 1st – day of the wedding.

The house was quieter than it had been the past few days. Not calm- just missing something. Them. Edward and Mallory had left for the venue the day before, and with them went the tension that seemed to linger in every room. Every conversation with his dad lately followed the same script- short, strained, ending in something worse.  At least silence didn’t turn into a fight. 

Wally was up early again. The beach stretched out in front of him as he ran, the sand uneven beneath his feet, the sound of waves crashing steadily beside him. The air was cool, sharp enough to clear his head, even if only for a second.

His thoughts circled back to the same thing. By the end of the day, Mallory would be his stepmom. The word still didn’t sit right. He exhaled, his pace slowing slightly as the thought settled in. Everything about it felt rushed. Forced.  

And Mallory. He didn’t trust her. Not even a little. There was something too polished about her, too controlled. It reminded him too much of his dad. 

His mind then drifted to his mom. They FaceTimed the night before, him and Maddie sitting side by side on the couch. The conversation flowed like normal– checking in, talking about Sandra’s treatment, the usual things. But it was the tone in his mom’s voice that gave her away. The slight pause before she answered. The way her voice dipped for just a second before she steadied it again. 

Even if things ended badly with his parents, it didn’t mean it had always been that way. Wally could still remember what his dad used to be like – before the company, before they money. His gran always said it had gone straight to his head. She wasn’t wrong. That’s when he changed. Or maybe… he’d always been like that, and the money just made it easier to see. 

Wally swallowed, pushing the thought aside as he kept running.

At least he wasn’t the only one struggling with all of this. Jess and Izzy weren’t thrilled about the wedding either. They’d admitted as much to him and Maddie, sharing their own version of the same story. A parent choosing someone else. They weren’t happy about it. But like him, they didn’t really have a choice. 

As he continued running, his mind drifted to Maddie. The tightness in his chest eased at the thought of her. She’d been there through it all. Every conversation, every shift, every moment he didn’t know how to handle, she stayed. Steady and certain - even through everything she was going through.

She’s been the one to say it first. To take the leap he hadn’t been brave enough to take. And now? He couldn’t imagine doing this without her. They hadn’t been together long, not officially. But after years of friendship, of knowing each other inside and out, nothing felt new. It felt right. 

His pace slowed to a stop near the water’s edge, his breathing uneven as he stared out at the ocean. Whatever challenges today would throw at him, he knew he wouldn’t have to do it alone with Maddie by his side. 

When Wally returned after his run, Maddie, Jess and Izzy were all in the kitchen, making breakfast… more like attempting. 

“I’m telling you, Jess, it needs more cheese,” Izzy said, peering into the pan. 

“It already has cheese,” Jess replied, frowning as she poked at it with the spatula. 

“Not enough cheese.”

“That is definitely enough cheese.”

Wally paused in the doorway, watching for a second before stepping inside. “Should I be concerned?”

Maddie glanced over at him, a small smile forming instantly. “I did say I could make something,” she said, “but they insisted.” 

Izzy pointed the spatula at her. “We’re perfectly capable.”

Jess nodded. “We just.. don’t usually cook together.”

“That’s becoming very obvious,” Wally said, grabbing a bottle of water from the fridge. 

“It’s fine,” Izzy said. “It’s just eggs. How hard can it be?”

As if on cue, something in the pan stuck slightly. “Okay, don’t say anything. Maddie’s told us that you’re really good at cooking” Jess said, wincing. 

“I didn’t say anything.” Wally said. 

“You were about to.”

“Okay I totally was.” 

“I knew it.” 

Maddie laughed softly, stepping closer to the stove. “Do you want us to-” 

“No,” both Izzy and Jess said at the same time. 

“Okay,” Maddie said, holding her hands up in surrender. “We’ll just… supervise.” 

“That somehow feels worse.” Izzy muttered. 

Maddie leaned against the counter, watching Wally for a moment instead of the chaos in front of them. She couldn’t even imagine how he is feeling about today. All that she could do was be there for him. 

“Hey,” she said quietly, as he stepped closer to her. “How was your run?” “Good,” he said. “Cleared my head.”

She nodded. “Good.”

A small scape came from the pan behind them. 

“I think it’s stuck,” Jess said. 

“It’s not stuck.” Izzy replied.

“It’s stuck.”

Maddie glanced back at the stove, then at Wally again, the corner of her mouth lifting slightly. 

Wally huffed out a quiet laugh. “Alright,” he pushed himself off the counter. “Move.”

Jess didn’t hesitate, handing him the spatula. “Please.”

Izzy raised an eyebrow. “Wow. You’re giving up this easily?”

“Yes.” 

Wally stepped in beside the stove, assessing the situation. Maddie moved with him without thinking, grabbing a plate and setting it down beside him. 

“The heat is too high,” she said quietly.  “Yeah,” he agreed, turning it down slightly. “And it’s been sitting too long.” 

“Should’ve listened to me about the cheese,” Izzy muttered. 

Wally glanced over at her, confused. “That’s not the problem.”

“Are you sure?”

Maddie nodded. “Very,”

After Maddie and Wally successfully saved their breakfast, they sat around the table, the earlier chaos settling into something easier. Instead of talking about the wedding, they talked about themselves. The kind of conversations that would have happened the first time they met- if things had been normal. 

Jess spoke about college, about being in her second year and how full on it could be. There was a quiet confidence in the way she talked about it, like she had found her place there. She spoke about psychology with a kind of calm interest, about understanding people and the way they think, like it mattered to her in a way that beyond just studying. She also mentioned that she is thinking about becoming a child psychologist, wanting to help shape young minds and help them through their feelings. When she mentioned her boyfriend, Liam, it was brief but telling – the softness in her expression, the ease in the way she spoke about him. They had been together for nearly two years, something steady and familiar in her life. 

The conversation then shifted to Izzy. She spoke about fashion with certainty, like it had never been a question. Even at sixteen, she already knew what she wanted- to study design, to get into a good college, to build something of her own. She talked about New York with a kind of bright exactment, not just as a place but as a goal – imagining her work on a runway at New York Fashion Week, something people would stop and look at. There was a confidence to it, bold and unapologetic, but underneath it sat something sharper. A determination that made it clear that wasn’t just a dream she liked to talk about. It was something she fully intended to reach. 

Wally and Maddie listened, asking the occasional question, the conversation moving easily between them. 

When the focus shifted back to them, it wasn’t an introduction so much as a continuation. Jess and Izzy already knew about their plans for college, they wanted to know more about them, about their life in Split River. Maddie and Wally talked routines that had become second nature over the years – early mornings, long days, the way everything and everyone felt familiar. Then the conversation shifted to their friends, their personalities, their dynamics, the way their group somehow worked despite making no sense on paper. It came together in pieces – stories, small moments, the kind of details that made it clear how much those people mattered to them.

Jess and Izzy listened closely, asking questions here and there, building their own picture of Split River. 

Eventually, it circled to how Maddie and Wally got together. How they had been best friends since they were ten, how they live across the street from one another, how their moms are best friends, so it was easy for them to become close. The years of friendship, the almost, the timing that never quite lined up. Until it finally did. 

After that, the conversation softened again, drifting between topics, between laughter and quieter moments, until it eventually faded into something more relaxed. By the time early afternoon rolled around, they couldn’t delay the inevitable, it was time for them to get ready for the wedding. 

The rest of the afternoon passed in a blur of quiet preparation. Showers ran one after the other upstairs. The bathroom door opened and closed between Jess and Izzy, their voices occasionally carrying through the hall, while the quieter sounds of Maddie and Wally getting ready stayed contained in their room. 

Maddie showered first. By the time she stepped out, the mirror had already begun to fog over, the bathroom still warm with steam. She wrapped her hair in a towel, slipped into a bathrobe and moved back into the bedroom. 

A few minutes later, Wally slipped into the ensuite, the only sound was the running water.  When he finished, the room was thick with steam. He paused in front of the mirror, wiping away the fog with the palm of his hand. His reflection came into view, blurred at first, then clear. For a second, he just stood there. He took a deep breath. Then let it out. He did it a couple of times, one of the many grounding techniques he’d learned over the years. Then he reached for the robe, tying tighter before stepping back into the bedroom.

Maddie sat at the vanity, focused on her makeup, her hair still wrapped in a towel. Soft music played quietly from her phone beside her. 

Wally ran a towel through his hair as he crossed the room, grabbing his suit before heading back into the ensuite to get dressed.

 By the time he returned, Maddie was finished. She stood in front of the full-length mirror, adjusting her dress. Wally paused in the doorway, a slow smile spreading across his face.

“You look beautiful, Mads,” 

Maddie turned to him, her expression softening. “You clean up nice too.” Her hand lifted, brushing lightly against his cheek. 

Wally smiled, something quieter behind it.  “Thank you… for being here.”

“You don’t need to keep thanking me, Wally,” she said gently. “I want to be here. For you.”

He held her gaze for a moment, then nodded. He leaned in to kiss her, but she stopped him just before their lips met. “I just applied lipstick.”

Wally shrugged slightly. “Don’t care.” His lips brushed hers anyway, soft and brief. When they pulled apart, he let out another breath, steadier this time. “Let’s get this over with.” 

Downstairs, Jess and Izzy were already waiting. They both looked up as Wally and Maddie came down, taking them in properly now that everything was put together.

Jess smiled. “You ready for this?”

Wally let out a small breath, glancing between them. “Nope. But… let’s get it over with.”

Wally, Maddie and Jess moved to the front door, but Izzy stopped them. “Whoa, not so fast. We need photos. Our dad wants photos and I’m sure your moms do too.” She turned, scanning the room before pointing toward a section of wall near the windows. “Here, the lighting’s good.”

“Okay,” Jess said, walking over to where Izzy stood. “But quickly. We can’t be late or we’ll never hear the end of it.”

Wally rolled his eyes. “I don’t even want to imagine that.”

They gathered in front of the white wall, the late afternoon light spilling in just enough to soften everything. Izzy immediately started directing them- where to stand, how close, small adjustments until it looked perfect. 

Maddie took a couple photos of Jess and Izzy before they swapped, Jess taking photos of Maddie and Wally. They shifted positions, adjusting angles and poses as they went. 

“Okay,” Izzy said, scrolling through the photos. “Now a quick group one, because the Uber is already here.” 

She quickly set her phone on a timer, propping it up on the table before hurrying back to joining them, standing next to Maddie. 

She picked up her phone again, scrolling through. “Perfect. We can go now. I’ll AirDrop these in the Uber.”

They headed out and climbed into the Uber As Izzy sent the photos through, Wally and Maddie scrolled through them on their phones. Maddie paused on one. It was just the two of them – her looking up at him, him looking right back at her. Not posed. Not forced. Just… them. Like they’d forgotten anyone else was there. 

She tilted the screen slightly toward him. ‘I think this is my new favourite photo of us.” 

Wally glanced down, his expression softening. “Mine too.” 

Around fifteen minutes later, the car turned onto a long, winding driveway. The Stone Manor Estate came into view ahead. The car then slowed to a stop.

One by one, they stepped out of the Uber, the sound of the ocean faint but constant in the background. The Stone Manor Estate stretched out in front of them – white stone balconies catching the light, perfectly manicured gardens spilling down toward the water. Everything felt too polished, too perfect, the late afternoon sun casting a warm, golden glow over it all. 

For a second, no one said anything. Then-

“Jess, hey.” 

Jess turned, her face lighting up immediately. Standing near the Welcome to the wedding of Mallory and Edward sign was Liam – tall and lanky, with dark brunette hair that fell in loose waves. His porcelain skin caught the soft light, and his simple black suit kept everything understated, but put together.

He made his way over, pulling Jess into a quick hug before stepping back, his attention shifting to the others. 

“Wally, Maddie, this is Liam,” Jess said, glancing between them. “Liam, this is Wally - our soon-stepbrother and Maddie, his girlfriend.”

“Nice to meet you both,” Liam said with a smile. 

“Yeah, nice to meet you too, man,” Wally said. 

Liam held up his fist and bumped it with Izzy’s “Hey, Izzy.”

“Hi.” Izzy said. 

“Ready?” Jess asked, looking toward the pathway lined with flowers, leading to the ceremony area. 

“I guess,” Izzy said, rolling her eyes. “I really don’t want Edward has my stepdad… but he does have a pretty okay son, so I guess it’s fine.”

Wally laughed. “Thanks. I think?” 

They all turned down the path to the ceremony area. 

The closer they got, the quieter everything felt, the ocean, the low chatter, it all faded, leaving just one thought circling. By the end of the aisle, his dad would be standing there, like nothing had happened. Like everything was fine. Wally’s jaw tightened, his chest pulling tight with it. Every conversation that turned into an argument, every time his dad brushed things off, it all came flooding back. And now this. A wedding. Like he was expected to fit into it somehow.

They sat in the front row. As Wally sat, the feeling didn’t ease. If anything, it sharpened, like a sharp dagger in the pit in his stomach. Then, without saying anything, Maddie’s hand slipped into his steady, warm, grounding. It was like she knew, without even looking at him, that he was spiralling. Holding her hand pulled him out of his spiral. Back to her. He exhaled quietly, his grip tightening around hers, enough to steady him. 

Music started to filter through the speakers around the garden, the groomsmen began to walk out, all three of them Edward’s friends. Wally recognised them, vaguely. Faces from years ago, from a time that felt distant now. They didn’t look at him, or if they did, it was brief. 

Then Edward stepped out. The shift was immediate. He moved with ease down the aisle. Beyond the altar, the ocean stretched out wide, the late afternoon catching the light. For a moment, his gaze flicked toward the front row. To Wally. It didn’t linger, just long enough to acknowledge his presence there. Wally’s grip on Maddie’s hand tightened slightly. 

The music changed again, the bridesmaids moved first, one by one, soft colours catching the late afternoon light as they walked down the aisle. Then, Mallory appeared.  She stood at the end of the aisle for a moment, the Stone Manor Estate behind her. Everything about her was polished, deliberate. The dress, the smile, the way she held herself, it was all practiced. Perfect. Wally watched her walk, steady and certain like she was stepping into exactly the life she wanted.

The ceremony began. It followed the same rhythm as any other – measured, familiar. The minister spoke about love, about finding the right person at the right time. Words that were meant to feel meaningful but landed somewhere flatter. Wally barely listened. His focus drifted - to the ocean behind the altar, the way the light shifted across the surface- anywhere but the front. Anywhere but them. 

Then came the vows. Edward went first. He spoke about growth, clarity, knowing and finally what he wanted. “Sometimes, it takes being in the wrong situation to realise what’s actually right.” 

Maddie glanced at Wally, the look on his face- his jaw tight, eyes wide - it’s like she could see the exact moment his heart dropped and all she wanted to do was to pick it back up and protect it anyway she could. She rubbed her thumb gently across the back of his hand, tightening her grip. 

Mallory followed. Softer tone, same intent. She spoke about self-worth, about not settling, about recognising when something no longer fits. “And having the courage to walk away from what was holding you back.” 

Maddie’s gaze flicked to Jess, the look on her face the same as Wally’s. Broken. Like she couldn’t believe her mom said those words. She couldn’t see Izzy’s face beside Liam, but she could see her hands curl into fists in her lap. 

The rest of the ceremony moved quickly after that. Rings exchanged, promises repeated, the minister guiding them through each step with practiced ease. 

“I now pronounce you husband and wife.” The minister glanced at Edward. “You may kiss the bride.” Applause followed soft at first then louder, as Edward and Mallory walked hand in hand down the aisle. 

The minister stepped forward, smiling out to the guests. “Thank you all for being here today. We invite everyone to head inside for the reception. Family, if you could please stay back for photos.” The crowd thinned as guests were guided inside, leaving only a smaller group gathered near the front. Wally stood, Maddie’s hand still in his as they followed the others. Jess, Liam and Izzy fell beside them, briefly introducing Maddie and Wally to Mallory’s parents, her brother, his wife, and their kids. Polite smiles, quick nods. Nothing that lasted. 

The photographer began to arrange everyone, calling people into place. “Alright, everyone in for a group photo – fill in the gaps.” 

Mallory and Edward stood in the centre, the rest of them shifting around them. “Everyone look here-” A flash went off then another. 

“Perfect, now let's do one with just the family. Bridal party to the side, please.”

Mallory stepped forward slightly, her gaze flicked toward Maddie and Liam. “Do you two don’t mind stepping out for a second? Just family for this one.”

Liam nodded easily, already moving aside. 

Maddie didn’t hesitate either. As she moved, she leaned in slightly toward Wally, her voice low. “Just go with it. Don’t start anything.”

Wally’s jaw tightened but he nodded. 

Maddie stepped aside next to Liam, both of them watching from the edge.

“Alright, step in closer,” the photographer said. “Let's get the kids of the couple next to their parents.”

Jess and Izzy moved into place beside Mallory. Wally hesitated then stepped forward, standing next to Edward. He forced a neutral expression, his shoulders stiff as the camera flashed again.

“Alright, that’s great. Bridal party next, everyone else is free to head inside.” 

Wally stepped back immediately, running a hand along his jaw, trying to ease the tension sitting there. He didn’t say anything. Didn’t look at his dad, just moved forward. He crossed back to Maddie’s side, the moment he reached her, something in his posture easily just slightly. 

Jess and Izzy joined them a second later, Jess drifting back toward Liam. 

“I want to say that I’m surprised by their vows,” Izzy muttered.

“But I’m not.” Jess let out a quiet breath. “That was fucking brutal. And this wedding’s not even close to being over.” 

The reception space opened up the moment they stepped inside. High ceilings stretched overhead, lined with chandeliers that cast a soft, golden glow across the room. Light reflected off glass and polished surfaces, catching on everything- crystal, silver, the delicate edges of perfectly set tables. Flower arrangements spilled across tables and lined the room, soft whites and muted pastels woven through greenery. Candles flickered between them, small flames dancing in glass holders. At the centre of the room stood a champagne tower, stacked precisely, waiting. Nearby the bar gleamed under low lighting, bottles lined up in neat rows, untouched for now. A dance floor sat just beyond it, lights dimmed overhead, music already playing softly.

Guests filtered in, the room slowly filling with movement and quiet conversation. Staff moved seamlessly between tables, refilling glasses, chatting to guests and between each other. 

Wally and Maddie took their seats with Jess, Izzy, Liam and Jess and Izzy’s cousins. After that course after course followed. Plates placed down with precision, each dish smaller than expected, arranged with care that made them look more like art than food. As each course was sat in front of them, Maddie and Wally had no idea what the food was. Everything looked fancy, expensive. Food you wouldn’t find in Split River. 

The lights then dimmed, the music changed. Guests turned toward the dance floor as Edward and Mallory stepped into the centre, the attention of the room settling on them instantly. The opening notes of Endless Love by Diana Ross and Lionel Richie filled the room, soft, sweeping, unmistakably romantic. They began to dance. Slow, practiced, effortless. 

Around them, guests watched, smiling, some swaying gently where they stood. Wally’s jaw tightened again. Of course it had to be this song. One of his mom’s favourites, and Edward knew it. It felt deliberate.  He couldn’t sit and watch it anymore. Maddie was mid conversation with Izzy, so he waited for a moment before leaning in slightly. 

“I’m just going to head to the bathroom. I’ll be back” he murmured, voice low. 

Maddie nodded. “Okay.” 

Wally stood, he wasn’t going to the bathroom, he didn’t have a plan, he just couldn’t be in the room anymore. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw a full bottle of champagne sitting on a nearby table, not at the bar, not part of the display. Completely unattended. He glanced over his shoulder, making sure no one was looking, then reached for it, slipping it into his hand as he moved toward the hallway.  

Wally didn’t stop walking. The hallway stretched longer, the music fading behind him with every step there was nothing but a dull echo. He then approached a door with ‘this way to beach’ written across the metal plaque on the door. Cool air hit him instantly. 

A narrow set of steps led down toward the beach, tucked just off the side of the estate. Wally took them without thinking, his grip still tight around the neck of the champagne bottle. At the bottom, a deck sat just above the sand, strung with soft lights that cast a warm glow against the dark sky. Finally, a quiet spot he could take a breather. Or so he thought.  Jess stood there in Liam’s suit jacket, leaning back against the railing, a champagne bottle in her hand. Liam was beside her, relaxed nursing another bottle. 

Wally let out a small breath. “So, this is where you two ended up. Didn’t think anyone else would be out here.” 

Jess gave a dry half-smile. “Yeah. Same.” 

“Jess needed to get out of there. I’ve been here before, so I knew this spot,” Liam added, taking a sip from the bottle.

Wally sat down on the wooden bench that stretched along one side of the deck, twisting the cap off his bottle. “I don’t really drink, I just needed-”

“I get it, Wally,” Jess cut in gently. “You don’t need to explain.” 

For a moment, they just sat there. The only sound was the waves rolling onto the shore – steading, grounding.

“This day has been… a lot.” Jess said finally. 

Wally let out a quiet breath. “That’s one way to put it.”

Jess shook her head slightly. “The vows? That wasn’t even subtle.” 

“It wasn’t,” Wally said, his grip tightening around the neck of the bottle. “Felt intentional.”

“That’s exactly what I said to Liam.” 

Wally took another sip. “They just did their first dance to Endless Love. One of my mom’s favourite songs.”

“Seriously?” Liam said. “That’s such a dick move.” 

“Both of them are dicks.” Jess muttered. “Has Edward even tried to make things right after the other day?”

Wally let out a humourless huff. “My dad making amends? That would require him admitting he did something wrong.” Liam’s brows furrowed together. “What happened?”

“Long story short -I told him I wanted to be a physiotherapist instead of taking a football scholarship.” 

Liam nodded slowly. “I haven’t known you long, but I think you’d be great at it,” he said. “I’m studying kinesiology at UCSF.” 

Wally glanced at him. “Yeah?” “Yeah. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.”

“And all from what Maddie has told me,” Jess added. “it sounds like it fits you.” 

Something in Wally eased slightly. “Maddie’s been talking about me?”

Jess smiled. “Of course. She’s really proud of you – for standing up for yourself.”

A beat. 

“She’s a good one, kid. Don’t mess that up.” 

Wally shook his head lightly, a small smile pulling at the corner of his mouth. “Wasn’t planning on it.”

The reception carried on around them, music swelling, voices rising as more guests filled the dance floor. Maddie and Izzy had been pulled into conversation, moving easily from one topic to the next without really noticing how much time had passed. It wasn’t until there was a lull that Maddie reached for her phone from her purse, more out of habit than anything else. 

9:57pm.

Her brows pulled together. That felt… later than it should be. Her gaze drifted across the room. Wally still hadn’t come back. A small shift of unease settled in her chest. He’d left not long after the first dance around 9:20. Being in the bathroom for forty minutes? That was… odd. Maybe he ran into someone he knows and they got to talking? But no one on Edwards' side of the family came to the wedding, not supporting his decision. 

“I don’t think Wally ever came back,” Maddie said, quieter now. 

Izzy frowned slightly, glancing toward the bar. “Jess and Liam haven’t either.”

“Let's go.” They both stood up, heading towards the doorway. 

They reached the restrooms just as a staff member stepped out of the men’s.

“Hey- sorry,” Maddie said quickly. “Have you seen a guy, eighteen, about six-three, brown hair, light suit, pass by?

The staff member thought for a second, then nodded toward the end of the hall. “Yeah, I saw someone like that head out that door a while ago. It leads outside,” he said. “He had a bottle of champagne in his hand.”

“Thank you.”

Maddie and Izzy pushed open the door, the cool air hitting them. 

Izzy glanced at Maddie. “Does Wally usually drink?”

“No,” Maddie said. “Last time I saw him drink was the night he found out about his dad’s affair.” 

She glanced around the outdoor area, string lights above sets of patio furniture. “He was so hurt that night. My friends and I didn’t leave his side the whole night. Even after he told us to leave, we didn’t.” 

They continued walking around outside, then they came across the narrow staircase leading down to the beach. 

“Let’s check down there before we head back inside.” Maddie said. 

Izzy nodded as they headed down the stairs, the sound of the ocean growing louder with each step. Soft lights came into view first, then they heard voices. At the bottom, the deck came into view – Wally, Jess and Liam spread across it, three champagne bottles between them. Not drunk but definitely not sober. 

“Finally,” Maddie said, her arms crossed across her chest, slightly shivering. “We didn’t know where you were.” 

Izzy stopped short, taking in the scene – the bottles, the way they were all just a little too relaxed. “… are you guys drinking, underage?” she asked, raising an eyebrow. 

Liam lifted his bottle slightly. “I’m not. I turned twenty-one last month.”

Jess pointed at him, nodding. “Yeah, see-legal.”

Izzy crossed her arms. “You’re not legal yet. You know how mom is with this shit.”

Jess waved a hand lazily. “It’s basically my birthday, in like… four months.” 

Izzy blinked. “That’s not how that works.” 

Jess shrugged, clearly unfazed. “Close enough.” 

Izzy plopped down next to Jess, picking up the bottle. “Gosh, Jess this is nearly empty.”

Maddie sat next to Wally on the wooden bench. She hasn’t seen him like this since that last night. He sat on the bench, shoulders looser than before, the weight he’d been carrying for days softened, but not gone. 

He met Maddie’s eyes. “Sorry,” he said, quieter now. “I just.. needed to get out of there for a bit.” 

Maddie’s expression softened instantly. “It’s okay,” she said gently. “I get it. Today has been a lot for you. This is the most relaxed I’ve seen you today.”

Wally nodded. “I am relaxed,” a pause. “But not because of the champagne.” He added quickly. “I’m not condoning drinking helps you get relaxed-”

“I know, Wally.” She cut in gently. 

A breeze rolled off the water, sharper than before. Maddie crossed her arms slightly, a small shiver running through her. 

Wally noticed immediately. “You look cold, babe.” 

Before she could respond, he stood, already taking off his jacket, draping it over her shoulders.  

“I’m fine-” she started. 

“Take it,” he insisted.

Maddie hesitated for a second then let it settle around her, still warm from him, still smelling like him. 

“Thank you,” she said quietly. 

Wally gave a small nod. “Of course, babe.” 

Izzy looked between them – Maddie wrapped in Wally’s jacket, Jess in Liam’s. she paused. “… wow.”

They all glanced at her. 

Izzy gestured vaguely between them. “So we’ve got two couples and then.. me.” A beat. “I’m like the fifth wheel here.”

Jess let out a laugh. “You’ll survive.”

“Barley.” Izzy said, shaking her head. Another pause, her gaze flicking out toward the ocean before landing back on them. “I didn’t sign up to be the only single person on a beach at a wedding.” 

“Hey,” Jess said lightly, nudging her shoulder, “maybe someone from the party will like you.”

Izzy physically shuddered. “Yeah- no. I’m good. Not that desperate.” 

Back inside, the reception carried on without pause. The cake was brought out – tiered, pristine, almost too perfect to cut. Edward and Mallory stood together, hands guided for the first slice, cameras flashing as the moment was caught from every angle. 

Slices were plated and passed around, the room settling back into conversation and movement. Edward returned to his table, plate in hand. He then glanced over to where Wally, Jess, Izzy, Maddie and Liam were sitting, finding the table empty. His eyes scanned the rest of the room. Nothing. 

“Honey, have you seen the kids?” he asked as Mallory returned. 

“No,” she said, waving a hand dismissively. “They’re probably fine.” 

Edward nodded. “You’re right,” he said, more to himself than anything else. “I’ll go look around for them in a bit. They need to taste this delicious cake you picked out.” 

“Sure,” she said, taking another bite of cake. 

Ten minutes later, with no sign of where they were, Edward stood, moving around the reception space. He spotted a staff member near the hallway. 

“Hi, have you seen a group of kids that were sitting at that table?” he asked, gesturing back toward it. 

The staff member shook their head. “No, but there’s a door down the end of the hallway that leads outside,” they said. “There’s a staircase that goes down to the beach. People usually end up down there during long events.”

Edward followed their gaze. “Alright. Thanks.”

He turned down the hall and pushed the door, stepping outside. The cool air hit him immediately. He walked for a moment before spotting the stairs. As he started down, voices carried up toward him – Wally and Izzy, light, familiar bickering. Edward let out a small breath, almost amused. At least they were getting along. 

He reached the bottom of the stairs, the deck coming into view. “There you guys are,” he called, stepping closer. “Cake’s just been served – you should come-” 

He stopped, he spotted the three bottles of champagne sitting between them, his expression shifted. 

“I should’ve fucking known,” he said under his breath. “Of course you’d be drinking.” His gaze landed on Wally. “Especially you.”

Wally straightened slightly. “What the fuck is that supposed to mean?”

Edward let out a short breath, shaking his head. “I knew this would happen,” he said. “I knew Maddie would end up exactly like her mother. It was only a matter of time before she started dragging you down with her.”

Silence. 

“What the fuck are you talking about? Wally stepped forward. 

Edward barely looked at him. “She’s a bad influence,” he continued, gesturing vaguely toward Maddie, then the rest of them. “Clearly it’s rubbing off on all of you.”

“I’m not even drinking, Edward,” Maddie said, her voice tight. 

Edward huffed a laugh. “You expect me to believe that? I’ve seen this shit before with your mother. Same excuses. Same bullshit.”

Wally’s fists clenched at his sides. “You are such a fucking prick.” 

His chest rose sharply, breath uneven. This wasn’t him. He didn’t do this. He didn’t lose control. He walked away, let things go. He always had, even with Xavier. Even when every part of him had wanted to hit him – when he found out what he’d done to Maddie, how easily he’d hurt her- Wally held it together. Swallowed it down. Let it go. But this- This was different. Hearing it from his own dad. About Maddie, her mom. Edward’s words echoed in his head- it was only a matter of time before she started dragging you down… she’s a bad influence-

Something in him snapped. Wally stepped forward – not fast, not rushed, just… certain. And then he hit him right across his face. The impact cracked through the air. Edward staggered back a couple of steps, caught off guard, his hand coming up instinctively toward his face as he tried to steady himself. 

Wally’s hand stung instantly, the force of it jolting up his arm, but he barely registered it. His pulse pounded in his ears.  “Don’t you ever-” his voice shook, breath unsteady now, “-fucking talk about Maddie like that again.” 

Edward steadied himself, his hand still hovering near his face. For a second, he just stared at Wally. “What the fuck is wrong with you?” he snapped, anger cutting through his voice. “You think you can hit me and walk away?”

Wally didn’t move. Didn’t back down. 

Liam stepped forward slightly, positioning himself just enough between them. “Alright, that’s enough,” he said, firm. “You need to go.” 

Edward let out a sharp, disbelieving laugh, his gaze flicking between them before landing back on Wally. “Unbelievable,” he muttered. “You had one job tonight and you still managed to screw it up.”

He shook his head, jaw tight. “I’m so fucking glad you’re leaving soon,” he added, voice colder now. “Means I won't have to see you.”

The words landed, heavy. Wally let out a short breath, something in his expression shifting – not anger, something quieter. Colder. “Yeah,” he said. “Ditto.”

For a moment, neither of them said anything. Nothing left to argue, nothing left to fix. Edward looked at him like he might say something else but didn’t. Instead, he turned and walked away, heading back toward the stairs, the sound of his footsteps fading as the distance grew. 

“I-” Izzy started, stepping forward. “Wally-”

“I just want to leave,” he cut in, voice flat. He turned for the stairs but barely made it up two steps before stumbling. “Whoa,”

Maddie was there instantly, steading him. “I’ve got you.”

“I can walk up a couple of steps, babe.” He muttered. 

“Because it’s going great so far?”

The climb up was slower than it should’ve been. 

“Why are there so many damn steps?” Jess complained. 

“There’s like twenty,” Izzy said. 

“That’s too many.” 

At the top of the stairs, Izzy pulled out her phone. “I’ll get us an Uber,” A few taps. “Five minutes away.” 

They made their way to the parking lot. Wally dropped onto the curb, staring ahead. Maddie stayed close beside him. 

Jess leaned into Liam. “Okay… I might be a little drunk.”

“You think?” Liam said. 

“Just a little bit.” 

“I’m gonna go grab our stuff,” Izzy said. “Maddie, stay with them” 

She turned, then paused, glancing back. “Don’t die.” 

And slipped inside. 

“Izzy?” Mallory called. 

She didn’t stop. She grabbed their things and headed back out just as the Uber pulled up. 

Getting them into the car took effort, but they managed. The driver had water bottles and bags ready like he’d seen this all before.

Back at the house, they stumbled out of the car.

“This is hard,” Izzy muttered struggling to hold up Jess and Liam. “I’m not doing this shit again.”

Maddie grabbed the spare key from the flower pot, unlocked the door, punched in the code, and flicked on the lights, never letting go of Wally.

They made it to the living room, collapsing onto the couches. 

“I’m so hungry,” Liam said, words slightly slurred. “The food was so fucking gross.”

“Oh my god, same.” Jess added.

“Uh… I could make some grilled cheeses?” Maddie offered.  

“Hell yeah, that sounds amazing, babe.” Wally said. 

“Okay,” Maddie said, already moving. “Izzy, shoes off. Get them comfortable. And grab some more water, maybe a bucket too.” 

Izzy winced. “Can’t I make the grilled cheeses instead and you deal with this?”

Maddie glanced at her. “After breakfast today? Not a chance.”

“Fair point.”

Maddie moved to the kitchen, starting on the grilled cheeses. From the other room, she could hear Izzy’s voice-

“You can at least help me take your shoes off, you sasquatch.” 

A few minutes later, Maddie came back with plates, handing them out. 

“Oh my god, yes.” Jess said, taking a bite. “I love you.”

Izzy had collapsed into the armchair, one arm thrown over her face. “That was so hard,” Izzy groaned. “They’re sleeping there. I’m not lugging their asses to bed.” Maddie laughed softly. “Welcome to my world.” 

She handed Izzy a plate before settling onto the couch beside Wally. She knew this all too well – looking after someone who’d had too much. It was going to be a long night – but for once, she didn’t mind. 

Part 23 Part 25

Edward finally got the punch he deserves! (we all cheered) but damn what an asshole

As always thanks @seeker1982 for your help with this especially with coming up with the idea of Maddie and Wally wearing what they wore in Quinn's shroom trip in season 3 ep 4 (and if you haven't seen that far ahead, whoops spoilers)

Tags: @lover1409@rosietoesy@jamiemoonymarks@unholypsychic@darth-jaderz@m3ntaltashia23@kellykeyser85@major-tomcat

[daisukiwaizumi]

href.li

Lust

iwaizumi/oikawa | 3K | explicit

part of the seven deadly sins series

-

I really need to stop letting Shittykawa talk me into this, Hajime thinks with a sigh. He squeezes a glob of shampoo into his cupped palm and massages it into his hair, working it into a soapy lather. The water pressure in this building is shit, but it’s better than having to walk home covered in drying sweat.

Oikawa is still in the gym, running through his cooldown stretches before packing up the net and all the crates of volleyballs they’d been practicing with. Hajime had informed him that if he wasn’t done by the time he finished showering, he’d get the ass-kicking of his life.

Hajime groans, rolling his shoulder, wincing at the tightness in the joint. That’s going to be sore tomorrow. But as much as his muscles are going to hate him for this in the morning, he’s always going to choose staying for late practice over heading home early if it means he’s around to stop Oikawa from working himself to death.

At the mention of Oikawa’s name, his cock stirs in interest, and Hajime curses. This has been happening more and more often lately. These lewd… thoughts, and sometimes dreams, about his best friend. He’s given in to them a couple of times already, but there’s a difference between jerking off to his friend in the privacy of his own room and doing it in the gym showers where said friend could walk in at any moment and see.

Especially when Oikawa, to the best of Hajime’s knowledge, is completely straight.

He strains his ears above the racket of the showers for the telltale sound of the locker room door squeaking open, but silence is all that greets him. Oikawa must still be keeping up, then.

Biting his lip, Hajime wraps his fist loosely around the base of his cock. He tilts his head back, letting the water rinse the shampoo out of his hair and trickle down his back. Closing his eyes, he envisions Oikawa in front of him, eyes wide and dark as they rake over Hajime’s body. Envisions the smooth, pale skin of his neck and chest, practically begging to be marked and ruined. The way his spine might arch if Hajime fucked him, the skin waist and that goddamn ass. He’s dreamed of being inside that ass dozens of times.

Hajime strokes himself firmly, hissing in pleasure when he presses a thumb to his slit. A familiar burning heat coils in his lower belly, and he pretends it’s Oikawa that he’s pounding into instead of his fist. Would he be silent in bed, trying to hide his cries behind his fist? Or would he be loud and unabashed, whining and moaning and saying Hajime’s name like—

“Iwa-chan?”

keep reading on ao3

[growinggardensys]

Plort and his Herd!

These are my de Blob ocs: Plort(the Inky), Jess, Oboe, and Slate.

[schoolspiritsfan14]

Treat You Better ❤️💙

Part 23: Fault Lines

Maddie x Wally

Warnings and info: everyone is Alive AU, set in 2023-24 (in line with the show), swearing, So this was meant to be the whole wedding in one chapter, but I got carried away writing and here we are 😂

Summary: Maddie and Wally head to Malibu for his dad’s wedding where he meets his soon to be step mom and step sisters. Will they be exactly how he expected or be a total surprise for him?

Masterlist

January 28th, 2024

The day that Wally had been dreading finally came. Tomorrow he and Maddie will be flying to California for his dad’s wedding. When his dad brought up the wedding on Christmas, there wasn’t a chance in hell Wally would’ve gone. That changed when that decision was made without him. His dad had paid Maddie’s hospital bills, and if he didn’t show up he would expect his money back – money they didn’t have. 

So, if he had to watch his father marry another woman, he would. He’d do it a million times over for her. There wasn’t much he wouldn’t do for her. He was truly, madly, deeply in love with her. 

The afternoon light spilled through the window as clothes slowly began piling up across Wally’s bed. Maddie sat cross-legged in the middle of the bed, carefully folding shirts while Wally dug through his closet beside her, rummaging through hangers in search of one of the two ties he owned.

“Ugh, this feels pointless,” he muttered, shutting the closet door. “I’m not wearing a tie. I don’t really give a crap.” 

Maddie didn’t even look up from the shirt she was folding. “It’s a fancy wedding, Wally. You absolutely need a tie.” “I absolutely do not.”

She finally glanced up at him. “You can’t show up to your dad’s wedding looking like you wandered in from a football practice.” 

Wally dropped onto the edge of the bed with a sigh. “Watch me.”

Maddie shook her head, tossing another shirt into the suitcase. “I don’t even have a dress nice enough to wear.” 

Wally frowned slightly. “What about the dress you wore to the Spring Fling last year?”

“I sold it.” Maddie said, shrugging. 

He blinked. “You sold it?”

“We needed the money.”

Wally leaned back on his hands, looking over at her. “Then when we get to L.A., we’ll go dress shopping.” 

“Oh yeah?” she said. “With what money?”

“With my money,” he said simply. “And before you say anything, I want to do this for you.”

Maddie leaned across the bed and kissed him on his lips before pulling back “Thank you.” 

Wally smiled faintly, but as she sat back down and reached for more clothes to fold, his thoughts drifted ahead to California – to the people waiting there he’d never met. His dad’s new wife. Her daughters. A whole family he was supposed to suddenly fit into. The knot in his stomach tightened. He pushed the thought aside as he stood and grabbed a couple of sweaters from his dresser and adding them to the pile of clothes Maddie was folding. 

Maddie glanced at the pile, then at Wally. “We’re only there for four days. You don’t need all these clothes.”

“Charley says it’s good to have options.”

“But not this many options,” she muttered. “Go through what you actually want to bring while I run across the street to grab a few things.”

Wally looked down into his suitcase, finally noticing how much he’d thrown in there. “Okay… yeah, that’s a lot. I didn’t even realize.”

“This is why you have me,” Maddie said, standing up. “I’ll be back in a minute. You sort all this out.

Wally nodded as Maddie slipped out into the hallway towards the front door. She pulled in her boots and grabbed her jacket from the hall closet before snatching her keys from the entry table. 

Just as she stepped outside and crossed the yard, a car came down the street and pulled to a stop in front of Wally’s house. Maddie recognized it immediately.

Charley’s.

She walked over just as he climbed out of the driver’s seat.

“You have impeccable timing Madison,” he said, shutting the door. “I need help with all of this.”

 Her brow furrowed together. “All of what?” 

“This,” he said, popping open the trunk of his car. Inside were multiple bags of food. “It’s food for tonight.”

 Maddie blinked. “You’re throwing a party because we’re going to California?”

“Not a party,” he said quickly. “Just whoever can make it come over for dinner. I’m making lasagna.”

“So, why are there so many bags?”

“You can’t have people over without snacks, Maddie,” he said. “That’s just poor etiquette.” 

“Right,” she said slowly. “Does Wally know about this?”

“And ruin the surprise? Absolutely not.”

“Well, I just need to grab some things from my house, then I can help you.”“I guess I can help you since you're helping me.” He shut the trunk and locked the car before they started walking across the snowy street toward her house.

Maddie unlocked the front door and stepped inside, Charley following her down the hallway toward her bedroom. She grabbed a bag and began stuffing in a couple of shirts and a pair of jeans. 

She then turned to him. “Can you check if my white Converse are in the living room?” 

“On it.” Charley headed down the hallway. A minute later he returned, holding the shoes he dropped them into the bag. 

“Thank you,” Maddie said, shutting her closet door. “I think that’s everything. I just want to check around the house real quick.”

Charley nodded. “I can’t believe you guys are going to California and you’re not taking me - your best friend. Especially with all the drama that is bound to happen at this wedding.”

Maddie shook her head. “We’ll fill you in when we get back.”

“That's all I ask.” She moved through the house, checking the doors and windows to make sure everything was locked and secure. When she finished, she glanced back at him. 

“So why are you doing this dinner thing so last minute?”

Charley shrugged, opening the front door and stepping onto the porch. “I figured Wally could use a distraction. Even if it’s only for a little while.” He looked back at her. “Has he talked about it much? The wedding… the whole new stepfamily situation?”

Maddie shook her head, locking the door behind them. “No, but I can tell that it’s been weighing on him.” She adjusted the strap of the bag on her shoulder as they walked down the steps. “He’s about to have this whole new family he’s never even met. I don’t know how he’s supposed to just… fit into that. It’s a lot.”

They crossed the street and Charley opened the trunk of his car again, grabbing the bags of groceries “I have no idea either,” he admitted. “But he has you, Mads. He’ll be fine.”  

Maddie gave a small nod. Together they carried the bags across the yard toward Wally’s house. Maddie pushed open the front door and stepped inside. 

The TV was on in the living room. Wally was stretched out on the couch, remote in hand absentmindedly flipping through the channels. He glanced up when the door opened.

“Hey-”

His sentence cut off when he noticed Charley walking behind Maddie carrying multiple grocery bags. 

Wally blinked. “… Why is Charley here?”

Charley walked straight past him toward the kitchen, placing the bags on the counter. 

“Because I am amazing,” he said casually. “And I’m making you – and anyone who shows up – lasagna”

“…Okay,” Wally said slowly. “But why?”

Charley started unpacking the groceries. “What you’re going through is a lot. And if we can take your mind off it, even for only a while, it’s worth it.”

Wally smiled. “Thanks, Charley.”

“Of course.” Charley glanced up from the groceries he was unpacking. “I messaged the group chat to see who was free last minute,” he said. “But I’ve been so busy at the store getting all of this, so I haven’t checked who actually responded.”  

Before Wally could respond the doorbell rang. 

Maddie opened the door. On the other side stood Nicole, Rhonda, Yuri and Simon. 

“We’re here to cheer Wally up,” Nicole said, stepping inside, shrugging off her jacket. 

The others followed her in just as Charley continued unpacking the groceries.

“He wasn’t joking,” Rhonda said, glancing toward the kitchen. “He’s actually making dinner.”

“Ha- ha very funny, Rhonda,” Charley called from the kitchen. 

“I’m just here for the free food,” Simon said. 

Nicole lightly smacked his arm and shot him a look. “And to cheer up Wally.”

“Well, could someone cheer me up?” Charley said. “I don’t know where anything is in this kitchen.” 

Maddie laughed. “I’ll help.”

Maddie stepped into the kitchen as Charley spread ingredients across the counter. 

“So,” she said, looking at the growing mess of noodles, sauce, and cheese. “Do you actually know how to make lasagna?”

Charley held up his phone. “I have a recipe.” Maddie leaned slightly to see the screen. “You’ve never made it before, have you?”

“It says easy homemade lasagna,” he said defensively. “How hard can it be?”

Maddie opened a cabinet and pulled out a baking dish, setting it on the counter beside him. 

Charley scanned the recipe on his phone, brow slightly furrowed. “Okay, step one is to make the meat sauce.” 

Maddie filled a pot at the sink and set it on the stove, adding some salt. She then grabbed a pan from the cabinet placing it on the burner.

“For the meat sauce we need, ground beef, onion, garlic…” he read from the screen. “That part sounds easy. And because I’m so smart, I got everything already chopped up.”  

He turned the burner on, adding oil and ingredients to the pan.

Maddie glanced over. “You look very serious about this.”

“I am serious,” Charley said. “This is a reputation moment.”

“For lasagna you’ve never made before?” He looked up from the pan. “Confidence is important in cooking.” 

Maddie laughed as she grabbed the tomatoes for the sauce. 

From the living room Simon called out, “Is the lasagna actually happening or are we just eating these snacks all night?”

“It’s happening!” Charley called back. He looked at Maddie, lowering his voice slightly. “…right?”

She smiled. “Yeah. It’s happening.”

Out in the living room, Wally had settled back on the couch with Nicole, Simon, Yuri and Rhonda, the TV now paused. 

Nicole turned slightly toward him. “What time is your flight?”

“Not until twelve,” Wally said. “But we’ve gotta get up early to get to Madison” 

Rhonda leaned back in the arm chair. “This whole situation is so fucking crazy.”

“What part?” Simon asked. 

“The fact the only reason you two are going is because Edward’s a greedy asshole.” She paused, glancing at Wally. “No offense.” 

“None taken,” he said. “Can’t really do anything about it now. The wedding’s happening with or without me and I’m about to have a stepmom and sisters, which is crazy to me.”

“At least it’s in California. You’ve never been right?” Yuri asked

Wally shook his head. “No. I’m just hoping Maddie and I can do something while we’re there that isn’t centred around the wedding. 

An hour later, the lasagna was finally done. 

Charley insisted on carrying the dish to the table like he was presenting something on a cooking show, even though Maddie had been the one making sire it actually turned out edible. 

“It smells great,” Nicole said as everyone started filling their plates.

“It smells incredible,” Charley corrected. 

Simon took one bite and nodded. “It actually tastes really good.”

Rhonda pointed her fork at him. “Don’t let that go to your head.”

“Too late,” Charley said. 

They sat around the table, talking over each other and as they ate. For a bit, Wally forgot about the wedding and everything, just focused on his friends and his girlfriend in front of him. 

After dinner, they drifted back to the living room, arguing over what movie to put on until Maddie finally picked one telling everyone to deal with it.  The movie played mostly as background noise. Charley kept making comments through half of it. Simon replied with dry one-liners, and Rhonda threatened more than once to throw a cushion at both of them. Wally sat beside Maddie on the couch, quieter than the others but loose than he’d been easier. Every now and then she caught him smiling at something stupid one of their friends said, and each time it made her chest ache in that soft, full way he always seemed to manage. 

When the credits finally rolled and the clock had crept too far into the night, everyone started gathering their things. 

Nicole hugged Maddie. “Text me when you land.”

“I will.”

Nicole smiled. “And try to have at least a little fun pretending to be sophisticated in Malibu.” Maddie laughed softly. “I’ll do my best.”

Simon grabbed his keys from the coffee table. “Wally in California still doesn’t feel real to me.”

Rhonda tugged in her coat. “I give him six hours before he says something rude about rich people.”

“Less,” Simon said. 

Yuri glanced at Wally. “Probably three.”

That pulled a small laugh out of him. 

Then Rhonda’s expression softened slightly. “You’ve survived through worse things than a wedding.”

Yuri nodded. “You’ll get through this too.”

Charley lingered in the doorway and pointed at both of them. “And don’t forget I want details about everything.” 

“We know,” Maddie said, as Charley closed the door behind them. 

Before sunrise, the alarm broke through the quiet, pulling both of them out of sleep while the rest of the street still sat under a heavy winter darkness. They moved through the house half-awake, pulling on warm layers and checking if they had everything. Wally sent a quick text to Bea, Aunt Carol, and the group chat letting them know they were heading out. 

The Uber ride from Split River to Madison stretched on that strange, quiet way early morning trips always did. Snowbanks were piled high along the edges of the roads, pushed back by plows after weeks of storms, rising in uneven white walls that caught the first hints of morning light.  As they got farther from town, the roads opened up into long stretches of highway, the tires humming steadily beneath them. 

The sky slowly shifted from dark blue to soft grey, then to a faint, cold gold that came just before sunrise. Every now and then Maddie glanced out the window, taking in the familiar winter landscape slipping past mile by mile, while Wally sat beside her with one hand wrapped around the paper coffee cup they’d brought from home. 

The coffee was still warm enough to help, even if neither of them felt fully awake yet. Maddie took small sips from hers, letting the bitterness settle her, while the car heater hummed softly and the elderly Uber driver made occasional small talk with them, passing the time.  

A couple hours later they arrived in Madison, the reality of it was starting to settle in for Wally. Today he would meet his soon to be step mom and stepsisters. Then he would watch his father marry another woman the day after the divorce is finalized. 

Wally’s jaw clenched slightly as they pulled into the airport drop-off area. Maddie reached over and gave his hand a reassuring squeeze. 

“You got this,” she whispered as they climbed out of the Uber. 

The airport was already busy when they stepped through the sliding doors, the quiet early morning drive disappearing instantly. Rolling suitcases rattled across the floor, flight announcements echoed overhead, and the smell of coffee drifted from somewhere deeper in the terminal. 

Maddie glanced around before looking at Wally. “Okay. Now we just need to figure out where we’re supposed to go.”

They followed the overhead signs toward the airline check-in counters, weaving through lines of travellers and luggage carts. It took a few minutes of checking the screens and double checking their boarding passes before they found the right desk. The woman behind the counter tagged their suitcases and sent them toward security with a practiced smile.

Security took a little longer. Shoes off, carry-on bags through the scanner, jackets and anything on them in the plastic bins. Once cleared, they grabbed their things and followed the signs until they finally reached their gate. 

Compared to the rest of the airport, this section was quieter. Rows of seats stretched along the windows where passengers were slowly gathering for the flight. Outside, planes moved steadily across the frozen runway, the morning light reflecting off the snow lining the edges of the tarmac. 

They found two empty seats near the window and set their bags down beside them. Maddie pulled a book from her bag and flipped it open, setting back in her chair. Wally leaned back beside her, headphones on, his phone in one hand, his other rested on Maddie’s thigh, his thumb absentmindedly tracing small circles through the fabric of her jeans. For a while they sat like that. 

Passengers passed by, quiet conversations filled the space around them, and every now and then an announcement echoed through the terminal.

Maddie turned a page before glancing over at him. At first it looked like he was scrolling through something on his phone. But after a while she noticed the screen hadn’t moved, he wasn’t scrolling, he was just staring at it. She watched him for another second before closing her book and setting it in her lap.

Even with the headphones on, she could tell exactly where his thoughts had wandered. To California, his dad, the woman that was going to be his step mom, the girls who would be his step sisters. A whole new family he was suddenly expected to fit into. Wally exhaled slowly and rubbed the back of his neck.

Maddie nudged his arm gently. 

He pulled one headphone off his ear. “Yeah, babe?”

“You’ve been staring at the same thing on your phone for five minutes.”

He glanced down at the screen like he hadn’t even realized. “Just thinking,” he muttered. 

“About them?”

He hesitated, putting his headphones around his neck. “I don’t even know what they’re like,” he admitted. “What if they hate me? Or it’s just… awkward the whole time?”

Maddie shifted slightly so she was facing him more. “You don’t have to impress anyone.” 

He frowned a little.

“They’re the ones meeting you.”

She placed her hand on his, that is resting on her thigh. “And for the record,” she added, “anyone who meets you and they don’t like you, that’s their fucking loss.”

A small smile finally tugged at the corner of his mouth. “You’re biased.” 

“Extremely.”

Some of the tension in his shoulders eased as he leaned back in the chair. 

Outside the window, another plane slowly taxied toward the runway.

They sat there quietly for a moment longer, Maddie reopening her book while Wally slipped his headphones back on, deciding to watch some videos on YouTube. And together they waited for the call to board their flight. 

The boarding announcement echoed through the gate area, and a small line began forming near the desk. Wally and Maddie grabbed their bags and joined it; their boarding passes scanned with a quick beep before they headed down the jet bride. The low hum of the plane grew louder as they stepped inside. 

Wally paused for half a second as he looked down the first-class cabin. The seats were wide, spaced far apart, with more leg room than he’d ever seen on a plane before. He glanced down at his boarding pass, then back at the seat numbers. 

“Alright,” he murmured to Maddie as they made their way down the aisle, “I get why people pay extra for this.” 

They reached their seats, and Wally dropped their bags into the overhead bin before sitting down. Then he stretched his legs out in front of him, his eyebrows lifted. 

“Okay, this alone might be worth it,” he said, motioning to the empty space in front of him. “My legs actually fit.” 

Maddie laughed as she settled into the seat beside him. “Edward really went all out for this.”

Wally leaned back in the seat, glancing around the cabin again. “Yeah, no kidding.”

A flight attendant passed by with a polite smile as passengers continued boarding behind them. Wally reached over, lacing his fingers with Maddie’s between the armrests. 

The cabin doors closed not long after the last passengers boarded. A few minutes later the plane slowly pushed back against the gate, the engines humming louder as it began taxiing toward the runway. Wally sat by the window, watching the runway lights pass outside. Beside him, Maddie shifted in her seat, glancing over his shoulder to see.

This was her first time on a plane. She had tried not to make a big deal about it earlier, but now that they were actually moving down the runway, the reality of it settled in. Snow lined the edges of the tarmac as the plane rolled into position. Then the engines roared. The force pressed them back gently back into their seats as the plane sped down the runway before lifting smoothly into the air. 

Maddie leaned over slightly, bracing one hand in the armrest as she looked past Wally out the window. The airport shrank beneath them, snowy fields and roads stretching out below until they disappeared beneath a thick blanket of clouds. 

For a moment she just stared. Then she leaned back into her seat, letting out a quiet breath. 

“Okay,” she admitted. “That wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be.”

Wally smiled softly beside her before stretching his long legs out in front of him, appreciating the extra space. 

“I’ve flown a couple of times before,” he said, glancing around the first-class cabin, “but never like this.”

He tapped the screen in front of them after a moment, scrolling through the movie options. Maddie leaned closer again, resting her head lightly against his shoulder as they looked through them together. They picked something after a few minutes, sharing headphones as they settled in for the flight. 

The plane began its descent a little over four hours later. Through the window, the clouds slowly parted, revealing the California coastline stretching out beneath them. The deep blue of the Pacific curved along the edge of the city, sunlight glinting off the water as the plane moved toward land. It was a sharp contrast to the endless snow they had left behind that morning. 

The plane rolled along the runway before gradually slowing, turning toward the terminal as the engines lowered to a steady hum. A few minutes later it pulled into the gate and came to a stop. Passengers began gathering their bags as the seatbelt sign chimed off. 

Wally reached up to grab their carry-ons from the overhead bin while Maddie stepped into the aisle behind him. They moved slowly with the rest of the passengers through the cabin and down the jet bridge into the airport. 

The airport was immediately louder than Madison had been. Travellers moved in every direction, luggage wheels rattling across the floor as announcements echoed through the building.  They followed the signs toward the baggage claim, weaving through the crowd until they reached the carousel. Their suitcases appeared a few minutes later among the steady stream of bags circling the belt, and Wally lifted them off easily before setting Maddie beside her. 

As they headed toward the exit, Wally pulled out his phone to check a message from his dad. Edward had already arranged for a car to pick them up from the airport, sending the details along with instructions to look for a driver holding a sign with their last name. 

Outside the airport, the air felt noticeably different. It wasn’t warm exactly – it was still February- but compared to the sharp cold they had left behind that morning, the temperature felt almost mild. 

A line of drivers waited near the curb, each holding signs for arriving passengers. Among them, one read CLARK.

The driver loaded their bags into the car before pulling away from the curb, merging smoothly into the steady flow of traffic leaving the airport. Los Angeles stretched endlessly in every direction. Highways twisted through the city in wide concrete ribbons, lined with rows of palm trees and tightly packed buildings. The afternoon sun hung bright over the city, casting a warm light across the highways and buildings that felt like words away to the snow-covered streets of Wisconsin.

Maddie glanced out the window, watching the scenery as the car moved farther from the city. Clusters of buildings slowly gave way to hills, the traffic thinning as the road wound west toward the coast. 

Beside her, Wally pulled out his phone. He sent a quick message to Bea letting her and Sandra know they had landed safely. He then pulled up the group chat. 

Split River Survivors

Wally: Maddie and I landed in LA.

Simon: 👍🏻

Nicole: Try to at least have fun while you’re there.

Maddie pulled out her phone and typed.

Maddie: LA feels like we’re on another planet compared to back home.

She snapped a photo out the car window of the scenery as they passed.

Charley: Maybe I need to apply to schools in LA.

Simon: Aw then you and Rhonda can share a place together. Adorable.

Charley: YES THAT WOULD BE SO FUN

Rhonda: Absolutely not.

Charley: Party pooper.

Wally and Maddie laughed in the back seat of the car as they read the messages. 

Wally: We’re about 10 minutes away from Malibu.

Nicole: Good luck. 

Rhonda: And if they are awful, we can talk shit about them. 

Charley: Ooh don’t forget to bring us souvenirs.

Rhonda: Souvenirs are tacky. 

Charley: More for me then.

Maddie: I don’t know if we will have enough time to get any.

Charley: FIND TIME.

Maddie laughed. “He’s not going to let it go, isn’t he?”

“Probably not.” Wally said. 

Wally: Okay. We’ll see what we can do. 

Charley: It’s all I ask. 

The car eventually turned off the main road and wound its way up a quiet street overlooking the ocean. They passed by numerous houses – bigger than any house in Split River- until they finally stopped in front of a large beach house. It was smaller than some of the houses they passed, but it was still far larger than anything either of them were used to. Wide windows faced the ocean, and a long wooden deck wrapped around the front of the house, giving an uninterrupted view of the water. 

The driver retrieved their bags from the trunk while Wally and Maddie climbed out onto the sidewalk. 

“Thank you,” Wally said to the driver. 

The driver smiled. “Of course, sir.” He got back into the car and drove off. 

 “Ugh,” Wally shuddered. “That’s the first time someone has called me sir.” 

Maddie laughed, lacing her fingers with his. “You ready?”

Wally tightened his grip on her hand. “I think so.” He paused before adding quietly. “I’m really happy you’re here.”

“I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.” 

Together they walked up the short path and climbed the steps to the deck. Wally took a deep breath before ringing the doorbell.  

A few seconds later the door swung open. 

“Hey, you two.” Edward said with a smile. “Glad you’re here.”

Wally forced one in return. “Hi dad.” 

“Hi,” Maddie said softly.

“Come on in,” Edward said. “The girls can’t wait to meet you.” He stepped aside, ushering them inside. 

The front doors opened into a bright coastal foyer. Two sweeping white staircases curved up to a balcony above, while a grand chandelier hung from the domed ceiling, its light reflecting off the white floors and soft blue décor that echoed the ocean just beyond the house. 

To the right was the living room. Three people sat on one of the couches, and as Wally and Maddie stepped inside, they stood. 

Edward gestured casually. “This is my son, Wally,” he said, then motioned toward Maddie. “And his girlfriend, Maddie.”

Wally blinked. “How do you know that?”

“I just got off the phone with your mom. We had some things to discuss and she mentioned it.” Edward said, shrugging. 

Wally nodded slowly, through something about that sat strangely with him. 

Edward turned to the woman standing closest to them. “This is Mallory.” 

Mallory stepped forward with a warm smile. She had tanned skin like Edward and brown hair streaked lightly with grey. She looked to be around age as him, carrying herself with an easy confidence that made her seem instantly welcoming. 

“It’s really nice to finally meet you both,” she said. 

“Nice to meet you too,:” Maddie replied.

 She gently nudged Wally to say something. 

“Hi.” He said bluntly. 

Then Edward gestured toward the two girls beside Mallory. “And these are Mallory’s daughters – Jessica and Isabelle.” 

Jessica gave a small wave. She had light skin and dirty blonde hair that fell loosely around her shoulders. She looked like she might be in her early twenties, relaxed but observant, quietly taking everything in. 

“Hi,” she said. 

Next to her stood Isabelle, clearly younger, probably fifteen or sixteen, with light skin and light brown hair, tied loosely in a bun on her head and an easy, independent posture.

“Hey,” she said with a small smile. 

As Edward spoke, Maddie noticed Jessica and Isabell exchange a quick glance before their expressions settled again. She tucked the observation away quietly. 

Mallory clasped her hands together lightly. “Why don’t you two take a seat so we can chat for a bit.”

Wally shifted slightly, tugging at the sleeve of his jacket. “Do you mind if we change first? It’s a bit warm in all these clothes.” 

Edward nodded toward the girls. “Jessica, Isabelle – why don’t you show them to their room?”

Isabelle raised an eyebrow. “Why? We don’t live here.”

Maddie noticed Jessica trying not to laugh.

Mallory shot her a stern look. “Isabelle.” 

The girl just rolled her eyes. 

Jessica sighed softly. “No point in arguing, Izzy. Let’s just do it.” 

Isabelle grabbed Maddie’s bag from her hand before she could say anything. “Come on,” she said, already heading toward the stairs. 

Jessica led the way up the staircase while Isabelle walked beside her. Once they reached the top of the stairs and turned down the hallway, the noise from the living room faded behind them.

Isabelle glanced back toward the stairs before rolling her eyes again. “Sorry you had to see that. Edward can be… a lot.” 

Wally let out a quiet breath. “Oh, I’m well aware.” 

Jessica gave a small, knowing smile. “You’ve dealt with him longer than we have.”

They stopped outside a door halfway down the hall. Jessica pushed it open, revealing a bright guest room with large windows and a balcony, overlooking the ocean. 

Isabelle set the bag down near the bed. 

“For what it’s worth,” she said, leaning against the wall, “we’re not exactly thrilled about the wedding either.”

Wally lifted an eyebrow. “What do you mean?”

“Our mom cheated on our dad with Edward,” Jessica said plainly. “Neither of us are really on speaking terms with her right now. We only agreed to come because she threatened to stop paying both our tuition.” 

Isabelle gave a dry shrug. “That’s just how she is. Their divorce was only finalized three days before Christmas.” 

“Oh,” Maddie said, sitting down on the edge of the bed, then she glanced at Wally. “So she’s basically the woman version of Edward.” 

Isabelle and Jessica exchanged a look. 

“My dad did the same thing,” Wally said. “Except their divorce isn’t finalized until the thirty-first.” Jessica blinked. “He’s getting married the next day after his divorce is finalized?”

“Pretty much.”

“And you still came? Isabelle asked.

Wally shrugged slightly. “We didn’t really have much of a choice.”

Jessica frowned a little. “What do you mean?”

Wally glanced briefly at Maddie before answering. “My dad paid for Maddie’s hospital bills after an accident over Christmas. And if I didn’t come to the wedding, he’d expect Maddie and her mom to pay him back for it. I didn’t want to come without Maddie. I’m here for her.”

Jessica’s expression shifted immediately. “That’s so fucked up. But you doing that for Maddie is really sweet.”

“It is,” Isabelle muttered. “That sounds like something Edward would do.”

“Truly,” Jessica said. She then pointed toward the bathroom. “Over there is the ensuite. We’ll leave you two to get changed. We better head back downstairs.” 

Isabelle rolled her eyes. “Yeah. Can’t let the evil overlords waiting.” 

Jessica lightly smacked her arm. “Izzy…”

“What? It’s true.”

“Move,” Jessica said, lightly pushing Isabelle out the door. “See you in a bit.” She shut the door behind them. 

Maddie laughed. “Okay, I like them.”

Wally let out a small breath. “Yeah, they seem alright.” Wally said. “Mallory on the other hand…”

“It’s only four days,” she reminded him. “Then it’s back to freezing Wisconsin.”

Wally smiled. “We better change quickly. Like Izzy said, we can’t leave the evil overlords waiting.”

Wally and Maddie quickly changed into lighter clothing, shedding the layers they had travelled in. The warmth of the house was a stark contrast to the freezing Wisconsin winter. Once they were finished, Maddie took a moment to glance around the room. The bed sat in the centre with crisp white linens, two large chairs sat in front of the TV, and huge glass doors leading to a small balcony with two chairs and a table. 

She then grabbed her phone and slipped it into her back pocket before walking over to Wally’s side. “Ready?”

“As I’ll ever be.” He said. 

Together they left the room and headed back down the staircase. Voices carried from the living room below as they reached the bottom step. 

When Wally and Maddie returned to the living room, the others were already seated, mid conversation. Mallory looked up first.  

“There you two are,” she said with a pleasant smile. “Sit wherever you’d like.”

Maddie and Wally took seats on the couch across from them. 

“How’s the room? Everything to your liking?” Mallory asked. 

“It’s great, thank you.” Maddie said. 

Mallory smiled, clearly pleased. “Good. Edward and I spent months finding the right design team to renovate the place after he bought it. They were featured on one of those big design shows.” 

Isabelle leaned back in her chair. “Okay, we get it. You have a fancy house.”

Jessica pressed her lips together, trying not to laugh.

Mallory shot her a look. 

Jessica cleared her throat. “Anyway… what are your plans after graduation?” “I’ve applied to Northwestern and a couple of other colleges as backups,” Maddie said. “To study literature.” 

Mallory nodded approvingly. “That’s a wonderful school.” She gestured toward Jessica. “Jess goes to UC Berkeley. She’s studying psychology.” 

Jess shifted slightly in her seat. “Still figuring out what I want to do with that, though.”

Mallory waved a hand dismissively before she should continue. “Oh, don’t downplay it, Jess.”

She then turned her attention to Wally. “And Edward tells me you’re the star football player at your school.”

Edward nodded, leaning back in his chair. “That’s right. Colleges have been counting down the days until he can get recruited.” 

Wally glanced at Maddie before looking back at his father.  “Actually… football isn’t my main priority anymore.”

Edwards brows furrowed. “What do you mean?”

“I’ve been thinking about studying physiotherapy instead.”

“My boyfriend’s actually studying-” 

Edward let out a scoff, cutting Jess mid-sentence. “Physiotherapy?” he repeated. “You’re better off focusing on that football scholarship.”

Wally’s jaw clenched. His hands slowly balled into fists at his sides. 

Edward continued, almost dismissively. “Besides, are you even smart enough for something like that?”

Before Wally could respond, Maddie spoke. “Actually, Edward, Wally is smart enough.”

“Maddie, you don’t-” 

“I wasn’t finished speaking, Edward.”

Isabelle quickly had to cover her mouth with her hand to stop herself from laughing.

Maddie leaned forward slightly. “He’s one of the hardest- working people I know. And he’s already applied to UIC.”

Edward ’s eyes narrowed on Wally. “This isn’t you talking. This has Maddie’s influence written all over it.”

Wally sat forward. “Excuse me?”

“I think you’re over-reacting, Edward.” Jess said. 

Edward glanced over at her. “Stay out of this, Jess.” 

“Maddie has nothing to do with my choice, Dad.” Wally said, jaw clenched. “It’s my decision.” 

Edward ran a hand down his face. “Fine. It’s a great backup option if football doesn’t pan out.” 

“Oh my god, Dad, you’re not listening.” Wally said, anger flooding through him. “I can’t deal with this right now.” 

He stood abruptly, leaving the living room and heading out the front door.  

“This conversation isn’t over, Wally.” Edward said, starting to stand, but Maddie stepped in front of him.

“Leave him,” she said firmly. “Let him cool off for a bit. I’ll check on him.”

Edward stood anyway. “Wally doesn’t want to admit it, but I can see this is your influence. He’s always wanted to be the next big NFL star, not some psychotherapist.”

“I had nothing to do with that decision, and I wouldn’t want to,” she said. “Wally is his own person. He can do whatever the fuck he wants to do.” She held Edward’s gaze. “And I’ll support him. Always. Unlike you.”

A heavy silence fell over the room. 

“I mean, what kind of father doesn’t support their kid?” she added before turning and walking toward the front door without looking back. 

Edward turned to Mallory. “I’m sorry you had to see him like that, honey. I don’t know what came over him.”

“That’s quite alright, sweetie,” Mallory said smoothly. “I can tell your doing what’s best for him.”

Izzy glanced at Jess. 

“Don’t, Izzy.” Jess warned quietly.

“Nope, I’m doing it.” Izzy stood up.

“You are such a fucking asshole, Edward,” she said bluntly. “It’s pretty clear he’s made his choice. In career and in partners.”

“Sit down, Izzy,” Mallory snapped. “This isn’t any of your business.” 

“Well, it kinda is,” Izzy shot back. “He’s about to be my stepbrother. And I always have my siblings’ backs.” She turned and headed toward the stairs.  

“I agree with Izzy,” Jess said, standing up. “If someone told me I wasn’t smart enough to pursue what I wanted, I’d walk out too.” She looked briefly at Edward before turning toward the stairs. “Just something to think about.” 

By the time Maddie found Wally, he was on the beach a bit further up from the house, sitting near the waterline, elbows resting on his knees as he stared out across the water. The waves rolled in quietly, washing over the sand before pulling back again, the steady rhythm giving him something to focus on besides everything running through his head. 

She didn’t say anything when she approached him. Instead, she sat down beside him, the cool sand shifting beneath her. She reached over and gently took his hand. They sat like that for a while, the sound of the waves filling the quiet between them. Eventually, Wally exhaled slowly.

“I can’t go back to that house yet,” he said quietly. “I can’t deal with him.”

Maddie squeezed his hand. “You don’t have to,” 

He glanced over at her. 

“Let’s just go out,” she continued. “We’ve got a bit of spending money. We can get dinner somewhere, walk around, and stay out the whole evening.” 

Wally looked back out at the water before looking back at her. “Okay.”

“Stay here,” she said. “I’ll go back to the house and get a couple of things.”

Wally nodded, as she leaned across and kissed his check before standing.

Maddie slipped quietly back through the front door of the house. Luckily, the living room was empty so she could quickly go upstairs without confronting Edward. 

In their room she moved quickly, grabbing her bag from the chair. She then opened Wally’s suitcase grabbing a sweater and then one of her own just in case. 

As she stepped back into the hallway, the door across from her opened. 

Jess froze slightly when she saw her. “Maddie?”

Maddie shifted the sweaters in her arms. “Hey. I’m just grabbing a few things. Wally just needs some space so we’re going to head out for a bit.”

Jess nodded, leaning against the doorframe, crossing her arms loosely. “Honestly? I don’t blame either of you. That was… intense.”

“That’s putting it lightly,” Maddie said quietly. “Also, could you not say anything? Just for now.”

Jess gave a small, understanding nod. “Go. I won't say anything.”

Maddie gave her a grateful smile before heading back down the stairs.

When Maddie returned to the beach, the sky had begun to soften, painting the sky in swirls of orange and pink. Wally was still sitting in the sand where she had left him, staring out at the water. He looked up when he heard her coming back toward him, their sweaters draped over her arm and her bag slung over her shoulder. 

“Ready?” she asked gently.

Wally stood, brushing the sand from his jeans. “Yeah.”

They left the beach behind and wandered into town, the quiet stretch of Malibu slowly coming to life as the evening went on. They found a small restaurant tucked along the main road and shared dinner, the tension from earlier easing a little more with every passing minute. 

Afterward they walked along the streets near the water, passing beach shops and glowing storefront windows. Eventually they stumbled across a small movie theatre and decided to go in, neither of them particularly caring what was playing. 

Before the movie started, Wally’s phone buzzed in his pocket. 

Dad: Where are you?

Wally stared at the screen for a moment before typing back. 

Wally: Out with Maddie. 

He turned his phone on silent, slipping it back into his pocket before he could get a response. 

Maddie nudged his arm lightly as the theatre lights began to dim. “You okay?”

“Yeah,” he said quietly. “I’m with you.” 

Part 22 Part 24

OOOOH DRAMA! I love it 😂

Originally I had the girls as twins and being mean plus having Mallory mean but my writing bestie quickly reminded me that sounds like the evil step mother and step sisters from Cinderella. And figured I should give the guy a break and at least have the girls nice.

Tags: @lover1409@rosietoesy@jamiemoonymarks@unholypsychic@darth-jaderz@m3ntaltashia23@kellykeyser85@major-tomcat

[schoolspiritsfan14]

Treat You Better 💙❤️

Part 25: The Aftermath

Maddie x Wally

Warnings and info: everyone is Alive AU, set in 2023-24 (in line with the show), swearing, underage drinking, hangover behaviour, sex talk, light smut (kissing, touching)

Summary: Wally wakes up the next day hungover with a foggy memory of what happened. When a snowstorm disrupts their trip home, Maddie and Wally spend another night in LA where they share an intimate moment and talk about what that means for them. Back in Split River, they tell the group what happened during the trip. 

Masterlist

Golden rays filtered through the gaps in the curtains, landing on Wally’s face and slowly pulling him awake. When his eyes finally opened, everything felt… off. He was sideways, half hanging off the couch, one arm dangling toward the floor, his knuckles slightly swollen. Squinting, he lifted a hand to his eyes trying to focus, taking in his surroundings. He rolled onto his back and immediately regretted it. The headache hit first, then the nausea.

“Here, I got you.” Maddie was by his side helping him sit up. She nodded at the bucket on the floor, then passed him a bottle of water and a couple of aspirin. 

“Take these. It’ll help.” 

Accepting them gratefully, he swallowed them quickly with the water. His head dropped forward slightly as he dragged a hand down his face, the memory of last night still hazy. “I feel awful, Mads,” he muttered. “That’s… not how I wanted last night to end.”

“I know, Wally.” Maddie said softly.

 Wally glanced at her. “I hate that you had to look after me. Drinking was so stupid, I know that. I just needed an escape. I wanted to forget everything, even just for a little bit.” 

Maddie reached over, threading her fingers through his. “I know,” she said. “You don’t have to explain. You were hurting.” 

She hesitated, something shifting in her expression. “Like my mom,” she added quickly. “She’s been hurting ever since my dad died. I think… I get it a little more now.” She exhaled, “God, I was such a bitch to her.”

Wally tightened his grip on her hand. “Hey,” he said gently. “You weren’t being a bitch. You were hurting too, Mads.”

Before she could respond, footsteps sounded from the stairs. 

Izzy appeared, hair still damp from the shower, pausing in the doorway. “I see Rocky Balboa is finally awake.”

Wally frowned. “Rocky Balboa? What do you mean by that?” 

“You know,” Izzy said, dropping into the armchair, “because you punched Edward. I wish I’d recorded it, honestly.”

Wally blinked, looking over at Maddie. “I punched my dad?” 

Maddie nodded. “Yeah.” 

He rubbed the back of his neck, wincing slightly before looking down at his hand.  “Well, that explains why my hand hurts,” he paused. “I… kind of remember. It’s a bit foggy though. What exactly happened?”

Maddie glanced briefly at Izzy before looking back at him. “When Edward found us on the deck, he saw the champagne and-” she hesitated, choosing her words carefully. “He assumed it was my fault.” 

Wally’s jaw tightened slightly.

“He said he knew I’d turn out like my mom,” she continued, quieter now. “That I’d drag you into it. That I was a bad influence. That I was… rubbing off on everyone else.”

Silence settled between them. Wally’s gaze dropped as he tried to piece together the night. For a second, nothing- then it hit. Not all at once, but in flashes. His dad’s voice, cold and sharp. She’s a bad influence. I’ve seen this shit before. Maddie’s face confused and hurt. His own hand, the impact, Edward stumbling back. And then – I’m so fucking glad you’re leaving soon. 

Wally shifted uncomfortably on the couch, wincing at the movement. His head dropping back, he pressed his fingers briefly to his temple before he spoke. 

“I hit him…” he said, more to himself than anything. “I didn’t want to be that person.”

Maddie moved a little closer, her hand finding his, steady and warm. “You’re not,” she said quietly.

Wally shook his head slightly. “I don’t act on things- I might think it, but I’ve never act on it.” His voice stayed low. “With Xavier… I wanted to. God, I really wanted to. But I didn’t.” 

He looked away again, frustration creeping in. “But this-” his hands flexed slightly. “It’s different with him. He’s supposed to know me. He’s my dad. He’s not meant to be saying this kind of thing.” 

His voice broke briefly. “I keep thinking to myself that maybe he’ll change but he never fucking does.” 

Maddie’s thumb brushed lightly over the back of his hand. “This isn’t on you, Wally. It’s on him. He crossed a line.” 

From the armchair, Izzy shifted slightly, pulling the blanket tighter around herself. “He deserved it. Honestly, he deserved a lot more,” she muttered.  Maddie glanced over at her. “Izzy-”

“What? He did.” She shrugged.

Across the room, Jess and Liam were still out cold on the other couch, completely unaware of the conversation unfolding around them.

Wally exhaled slowly, gaze dropping again. “Maybe I just need to cut him out of my life completely,” he said, voice low. “If he is around… I’m going to turn into that person.”

Izzy shifted slightly, her vice quieter this time. “Jess and I talked about cutting our mom out once,” she admitted. “When she moved here from San Francisco to be with Edward, we really wanted to. But our dad convinced us not to. Said she was still our mom.”

Wally’s fingers returned to his temples, trying to slow the pounding in his head. “I don’t know what to do.” 

Maddie’s hand moved to his knee, grounding him. “I can’t tell you what to do. But whatever you decide, I support you.” 

Wally’s hand met hers, resting on his knee. “Thanks,” he said quietly. 

Maddie gave him a small, reassuring smile. “Always.” 

From the armchair, Izzy pushed herself up slightly, stretching. 

“Okay,” she said, glancing between them. “Now that that’s over… I say we get burgers or something for lunch. I’m starving.” 

Wally blinked. “Lunch?” He squinted slightly, still half out of it. “What time even is it?”

“Almost one,” Maddie said. 

Wally let out a slow breath, leaning his head back against the couch, “Jesus,” he muttered. Then, after a beat- “Yeah, greasy food sounds so good right now.” 

Izzy stood, crossing the room picking up Jess’s phone before returning to the armchair. “Good thing I know her passcode.” 

Maddie glanced at her. “Wouldn’t she be mad at you for using her money?

Izzy shrugged, unfazed. “Not really, Liam’s card is linked to her account.”

“Then wouldn’t Liam be mad?”

Izzy snorted. “He wouldn’t even know- he doesn’t pay for it.” She paused, then added casually. “He’s one of the lucky ones that has a good relationship with both parents.” 

Wally huffed out a quiet breath from the couch. “Wonder what that’s like.” 

Izzy glanced over at him. “Right?” 

Izzy pulled up the app, calling out suggestions as she placed the order. “Okay, it should be here in twenty minutes. I’m going to finish packing.” 

Wally sat forward, a little too quickly, immediately wincing “Wait- what time is our flight? We haven’t done anything.” 

“Relax, it’s not until six,” Maddie said. “We have time. And besides, I did most of it this morning.” 

“Oh,” he mumbled, trying to brush it off. “I totally knew that.”

“Uh-huh.”

About twenty minutes later, the doorbell rang. 

Jess stirred first, groaning as she shifted. “Why is everything so damn loud?” 

“It was a doorbell, we ordered food.” Maddie said, pushing off the couch to answer the door. 

Liam sat up slower, blinking. “Wait, food?”

Wally huffed out a quiet laugh from the couch. “Yeah. Welcome back to the land of the living.”

Jess pushed herself upright, immediately reaching for her head. “Oh my god…” 

“Good morning, sleeping beauties,” Izzy said dryly as she stepped back into the living room. 

They settled in with the food, the room filling with the smell of fries and burgers. For a few minutes, it was quiet, just the sound of wrappers opening as they started to eat. 

Jess frowned slightly, chewing slower. “Okay. What the hell happened last night after we left the wedding?”

Liam nodded, squinting like he was trying to piece it together. “Yeah. Last thing I remember is Maddie making us grilled cheeses…” he trailed off. “After that? Nothing.”

“Yeah, I don’t remember either.” Wally added. 

Izzy immediately looked over at Maddie, then burst out laughing. 

Jess narrowed her eyes. “What?”

Maddie tried -and failed- to stay composed. “All three of you sang the entire reputation album… and then moved on to 1989 before passing out.” 

“We did?” Wally asked, confusion spread across his face.

“Yeah,” Izzy nodded. “You wanna see the video?”

Jess glared at her. “Oh god, please don’t tell us you posted that online” 

“I was going to,” Izzy said. “But Maddie wouldn’t let me.” She grinned. “It would’ve gone viral by now – especially the part where you all climbed onto the coffee table and it started creaking. The looks on your faces? Priceless.” 

“It was really funny,” Maddie added, taking another bite of her burger. “You somehow turned it into a full competition.”

“Oh my god, yeah!” Izzy laughed. “Honestly, the highlight of this whole trip.”

Jess took a sip of her milkshake, eyeing them. “Okay… but won?”

“Wally,” Maddie said. 

Jess blinked “Really?” 

“Oh yeah,” Izzy said, finishing her fries and leaning back. “Clear winner. Which is concerning, honestly.” 

Wally frowned slightly. “How is that concerning?”

Izzy gestured at him. “Because you knew all the words. And that you actually sounded good. Even drunk.” 

“Liam said that you have the voice of an angel.” Maddie said. 

Liam blinked. “I don’t remember, but I’m sure you do.”

“Thank you? I guess.” Wally said. 

Jess glanced over at Wally. “I didn’t peg you as a Taylor Swift fan.” Wally shrugged, trying to play it off. “What can I say? I have range.” 

“Charley and Nicole would be so proud of you,” Maddie smirked. 

Jess frowned. “Who?”

“Our friends back home,” Wally said. 

“Well, thanks for looking after us last night.” Jess said in between bites.  

“Yeah,” Liam added. “It couldn’t have been easy.” 

“It was all Maddie,” Izzy said, gesturing towards her. “I just did what she told me.”

Wally reached across, taking Maddie’s hand in his. He didn’t say anything, he didn’t need to. His thumb brushed lightly across her knuckles, a small, steady squeeze – grounding, reassuring. He knew it couldn’t have been easy for her, but she did it anyway. Maddie glanced at him, understanding, she squeezed his hand back. 

A couple of hours later. 

An Uber pulled into the driveway, and they loaded their suitcases into the car, heading for LAX. Jess, Liam and Wally were nauseous the entire half-hour drive, while Izzy reminded them -repeatedly- that it was their own fault for getting drunk. They eventually stopped in Santa Monica, running into Target for anti-nausea medication and a few other things to get them through the flight. 

After a while, they finally arrived at LAX. They stepped into the busy airport- people rushing past, suitcases rolling over tile, the faint sound of a child crying somewhere deeper in the terminal. They headed to the check-in kiosks, printing off their tickets, checking the board for which direction they needed to go. 

Izzy glanced at Maddie. “It was really nice to meet you.” 

Maddie smiled. “You too.” 

“I just wish it was under better circumstances.” Jess said, adjusting the strap of her bag. 

“Yeah. I know exactly what you mean.” Maddie said. 

Liam gave a small nod. “It was still good meeting you both.” 

He glanced over at Wally. “Hey- when I get back home and I’m a bit more sober,” he added with a small smile, “I can send you some stuff about kinesiology. Programs, pathways- whatever you want.” 

“Thanks, that’d be great,” Wally said, a smile spreading across his face. 

A small pause settled between them. 

Izzy looked between Wally and Jess. “So… so we hug now, or is that way too weird?”

Jess snorted softly. “Definitely too weird.”

“Great,” Izzy said. “Glad we cleared that up.”

Wally let out a small laugh. 

Jess glanced at him, her expression softening a little. “For what it’s worth… I’m glad we actually got to meet you.”

Wally smiled. “Me too.” 

He rubbed the back of his neck, glancing between them. “Hey, um… I’m sorry about Christmas. For not showing up. My dad sprung it on me- I wasn’t in the right place to meet new people." “What?” Jess said, confusion spread across her face.

Izzy frowned, squinting slightly. “What are you talking about?”

Wally’s brows pulled together, he shifted his weight on his feet. “Christmas. My dad showed up to my house, told me about the wedding…then said you guys and your mom were back at the motel to meet me.”

They exchanged a look. 

“No, we weren’t,” Jess added slowly.

“We were in San Francisco,” Izzy added. “with our dad and his family.”

Wally stilled. “What?” “So you never came with Edward and Mallory to Split River?” Maddie asked, glancing between them.

Izzy shook her head. “We’ve never even been to Wisconsin.” 

“They told us that they went to New York for Christmas.” Jess said with a confused look on her face.

Maddie’s brows furrowed together. “So they told you they’d be in New York… and told us you were with him to meet Wally?” 

Liam frowned slightly, dragging a hand down his face. “Why would he lie like that? Say you guys were there when it was just him and Mallory?”

Wally let out a humourless breath, shaking his head. “No fucking idea. But I’m not surprised.”  Maddie’s jaw tightened, her gaze flicking between them before settling on Wally. 

“He’s fucking unbelievable.”

“Nothing can surprise me anymore with him,” Izzy muttered. “Anyway, we should get going. Our flight leaves in thirty minutes.” 

Maddie nodded, she glanced between Jess and Liam. “Have fun with those two,” she added lightly. 

Jess groaned. “I really don’t want to fly hungover.” 

Liam winced slightly. “It’s going to be rough.”

Izzy rolled her eyes. “Suck it up, buttercup,” Izzy said. “You’ll survive.”

They waved goodbye and turned around, heading toward their gate. Wally watched them leave. After all the shit from the last couple of days, knowing they felt the exact same that he did almost eased the blow.

A second later, the world tilted slightly. He blinked hard, trying to regain his balance. 

Maddie noticed immediately. 

“Hey-” she stepped closer, lifting his arm around her shoulders as her other arm wrapped around his waist, steadying him. 

“Sorry,” Wally muttered, voice low. “I’m fine, just-”

“You’re not,” Maddie said gently. 

He let out a small breath, his grip tightening slightly against her. “I hate this. You having to look after me like this.”

Maddie shook her head. “Hey. It’s okay.”

He didn’t look at her. “It’s not.”  She shifted slightly. “Wally, it is. You’ve had a rough couple of days. Let me be here for you.”

Wally exhaled slowly, some of the tension easing. “Okay,” he said quietly. 

They dropped off their bags and made their way through security slowly, Wally leaning slightly on Maddie as they walked. By the time they reached the first-class lounge, the noise from the airport softened the moment the doors shut behind them. Inside, everything felt quieter, calmer. 

Warm lighting glowed from recessed panels along the ceiling, reflecting softly off the polished floors and glass partitions. Low, comfortable couches and armchairs were arranged in small clusters, people tucked into their own little spaces. A long buffet stretched along one wall- covered in dishes, small plated deserts, fresh fruit-while a bar nearby clinked gently with glassware as the bartender poured drinks with quiet efficiency. 

Maddie guided him over to one of the couches, easing him down. “Stay here,” she said softly. “I’m going to grab us something to eat.”

“Wasn’t planning on going anywhere,” Wally muttered, leaning back, eyes closing briefly. 

She made her way to the buffet, grabbing two bottles of Gatorade, then grabbing some plates, stacking Wally’s with toast and crackers and stacking hers with a couple of slices of pizza. 

As she turned back toward Wally, a staff member stepped further into the lounge, raising their voice just enough to carry. “Hi everyone, just a quick update – any flights heading east are currently delayed due to a snowstorm in Colorado. Please check the app for updates or ask us at the front desk.” A few groans rippled through the lounge. 

Maddie made her way back over, setting the bottles of water and plates on the table in front of him. “I guess we’re stuck here for a bit,” she said. 

Wally cracked an eye open, squinting slightly. “Yeah… sounds like it.” 

She sat beside him, passing him the Gatorade. “Drink this and try to eat something.”

Wally took a sip, then glanced down at the plate and back at her. “I’m not that hungry.”

“I know,” she said gently. “But you’ll feel better with food in your stomach.”

Maddie picked up a slice of her pepperoni pizza. Wally looked down at his plate again. Bland, safe, boring compared to hers.

“I’d much rather have what you’re having.” Wally said, his mouth tipping up into a smile.  

Maddie didn’t even look up. “Yeah, and I’d much rather you not throw up in an airport lounge.” 

Wally huffed quietly. “I’m not going to throw up.” 

Maddie glanced at him, eyes narrowing slightly. His face had gone pale, jaw tight like he was trying to hold it together. “That’s debatable. Your face says otherwise.

“I-” He paused, a wave of nausea hitting him. “…Okay. You’re right.” 

“I know I am.”  She said, taking another bite of pizza. 

Wally eyed her plate again. “Is the pizza at least terrible?”

Maddie didn’t even hesitate. “Oh yeah. Really terrible.”

His eyes narrowed slightly. “…Liar.” 

She let out a quiet giggle, taking another bite like she wasn’t even trying to hide it. 

“You’re enjoying this too much,” he muttered. 

Maddie shrugged, unbothered. “A little bit.”

About half an hour later, the lounge had settled into a slower rhythm. Wally was stretched out across the couch, his head resting in Maddie’s lap, one arm draped loosely over his stomach. Maddie sat back against the cushions, a book open in her hands, one finger absently marking her place as she read. Every so often, her other hand would move lightly through his hair, slow and grounding. Around them, the lounge hummed softly. Low conversations, the occasional clink of glassware, footsteps passing by. 

Then her phone buzzed gently against her leg. She glanced down, shifting the book slightly as she checked her phone. Flight 839 to Madison, Wisconsin has been cancelled due to severe weather conditions. Please rebook or speak with airline staff if you need assistance.

Maddie’s eyes lingered on the notification for a second longer. Of course, just what they needed to end an already chaotic couple of days. She exhaled quietly, locking her phone before setting it down with her book beside her.

Her hand moved gently to Wally’s shoulder. “Hey,” she murmured softly, giving him a small nudge.

Wally stirred, shifting slightly before opening his eyes, squinting up at her. “Mm…yeah?”

“How are you feeling?”

He took a second, sitting up off her lap. “Better,” he said. “Still not great… but better than before.” 

Maddie nodded. “That’s good,” she said softly. “I just got a notification that our flight was cancelled because of the snowstorm.”

Wally let out a quiet groan, dropping his head back. “Yeah… that really tops off this perfect couple of days.” 

Maddie shifted slightly beside him. “We’re going to have to call your mom to let her know what’s happened and get her to leave a message for the school that we’ll miss another day.”

He dragged a hand over his face. “I can’t talk to my mom.”

Maddie glanced over at him. “Why?”

“She’ll know,” he muttered. 

“Know what?”

“That I’m hungover,” Wally said. “She figured it out last time I was hungover.” He paused then added, quieter, “You know how it is… you could always tell with your mom too.”

“Fair point,” she said. “Okay I’ll talk to her and if she asks about you I’ll just say you’re talking with airline staff.” 

“Okay.” 

Maddie unlocked her phone and dialled Bea. It rang twice before she answered. 

“Maddie, sweetheart,” Bea said warmly. “Is everything okay?”

“Not really,” Maddie said. “Our flight was cancelled.”

Bea paused for a second. “Cancelled?” 

“There is a snowstorm in Colorado,” Maddie said. “At first it was just delayed and now they’ve just cancelled all flights heading east.” 

A small pause on the other end of the line. 

“Alright,” Bea said, her tone shifting into something more practical. “Have they said when you’ll be able to get another one?” 

“Not yet,” Maddie adjusted her grip on the phone. “We’re just waiting to see what they say – everything’s a bit up in the air right now.” 

“Okay.” Bea exhaled quietly. “I’ll call the school in the morning and let them know you won't be back tomorrow.” 

“Thank you.”

“Of course.” Bea said. “How’s Wally?” 

Maddie didn’t even hesitate.

“He just went over to talk to the staff now.” She kept her voice steady. “Trying to figure everything out.” A beat. 

“Alright.” Bea said. “Text me when you get your new flight information.”

“Will do. Bye.” Maddie ended the call. 

She glanced over at Wally. “Okay, Bea’s going to call the school, and she said to text when we get another flight.”

Wally nodded faintly. “We should probably go join that line,” he nodded toward the airline desk, the line already growing. “Figure things out.” 

Maddie slipped her book and phone back into her bag, quickly straightening up their things before standing up. She moved in front of him, offering her hand. 

“I can get up, Mads.” He muttered.  

As he stood, he wobbled slightly. “Whoa.”

Maddie pressed her lips together, a faint smile pulling at them. “You were saying?” 

“Okay… I might still need a bit of help,” he admitted.  

She helped him steady, guiding his arm over her shoulders, her arm wrapping around his waist as they made their way toward the desk. 

 “I mean,” Wally added, quieter, “not that I’m complaining about being this close to you.”

Maddie let out a small laugh.

The line moved slowly. People ahead of them spoke in low, tired voices- rebooking flights, asking about rooms available, trying to make sense of everything. 

Wally stayed close to her side, leaning into her slightly. Just being near her felt grounding. Safe.

By the time they reached the desk, the staff member looked up. “Hi. Can I get your flight number and the names on the booking?”

“Flight 839,” Maddie said. “Walter Clark and Madison Nears.” 

“One moment, please.” 

 After a few moments, they looked back up. “We can get you on a flight tomorrow at 12 p.m. And we’ll put you up in one of the hotels nearby for the night.” 

“That’d be great. Thank you.” 

Wally shifted beside her, letting out a quiet breath.

“Of course.” The staff member turned to the printer. “Okay, here’s the flight and hotel information. If you have the app it should update within the next hour.”

“Perfect.”

“Just keep checking your phones for updates,” they added. “If anything changes, you’ll get an alert.”

“Thanks again.” 

The staff member nodded as they greeted the next person in line. 

They made their way through the airport toward baggage claim, the crowds thinner now but still moving with that same tired, restless energy. Their suitcases came around not long after, the sound of them hitting the carousel breaking through the low hum of the space. Maddie stepped forward, pulling hers off before reaching for Wally’s. He stayed close beside her, quieter now, letting her take the lead without argument. 

From there, they made their way out of the airport and toward the shuttle pick- up, the sky streaked with the last colours of sunset as daylight faded into evening. The air was cooler outside, a sharp contrast to the warmth of the lounge, and the steady hum of traffic filled the space around them. The ride to the hotel was short. By the time they arrived, both of them were running on empty. 

The hotel lobby was clean and softly lit, warm tones and polished floors giving it a calm, almost quiet feel compared to the chaos of their airport. Check-in was quick, and within minutes they were heading up in the elevator. 

Their room was simple but comfortable. A large king bed sat in the middle of the room, neatly made with crisp white sheets and a soft grey throw folded across the end. A couch and small coffee table were set off to the side, facing a mounted TV. Warm lighting filled the room, and a wide window overlooked the airport below, the last of the daylight slipping away. 

Maddie rolled their suitcases to the side of the bed, setting them out of the way before slipping off her shoes as Wally moved toward the couch, sitting heavily. 

She pulled out her phone, sending Bea a message before setting it aside.

“You good?” she asked, glancing over at him.

“Yeah,” he said, rubbing a hand over his face. “Just tired.”

“Shocking,” Maddie muttered lightly, grabbing the remote and turning the TV on.

Wally let out a quiet laugh, leaning back deeper into the couch cushions, his head tilting slightly toward her. 

“Don’t fall asleep yet,” Maddie said, nudging him lightly. “At least try and stay awake for a bit. This is one of the best episodes of Friends.” She gestured toward the screen as the show played. 

“I’m trying,” he mumbled, eyes already half-lidded. 

She glanced at him, a small smile tugging at her lips. “You’re doing a great job.”

 “Thanks,” he muttered. “Means a lot.” 

After a few minutes, Maddie reached for the room service menu, scanning it quickly. “I’m ordering some dessert.”

Wally sat up a little straighter. “Food sounds so good now. I’m actually hungry.” 

Maddie looked up from the menu. “If you think you can stomach some food,” she said, passing it to him. “But if you throw up anywhere but the bathroom, you’re on your own.”

Wally let out a quiet laugh. “Deal.” 

He scanned the menu, settling on a turkey club with a side salad. Maddie place the order- his and a slice of strawberry cheesecake for herself.

About forty minutes later, there was a knock at the door. Maddie stood as the waiter brought in the food on a service tray, setting it down on the coffee table.

“Enjoy.”

“Thank you.”

Maddie settled back onto the couch beside Wally as they began eating, Friends playing in the background. For a while, they ate in comfortable silence, the only sounds were the dialogue from the TV and the soft clink of cutlery. 

Wally finished first, leaning back against the couch with a satisfied breath. His eyes drifted to Maddie’s plate. “… Can I have some?”

Maddie glanced at him. “You just ate.”

Wally tilted his head slightly, giving her the most obvious, over the top pleading look. 

She stared at him for a second. “… That is so unfair.”

Wally just held the look. 

Maddie huffed a quiet laugh, breaking first. “Fine. It’s a good thing you’re cute.” She handed the plate to him. 

He didn’t even try to hide the small smile as he took a bite. “Worth it.” 

Maddie shook her head, smiling despite herself.

They settled back into the couch, sharing the cheesecake between them, the soft glow of the TV filling the room as another episode played on. 

A couple of hours later, as the show continued, they laughed at the jokes they’d heard a hundred times before. Their phones suddenly vibrated against the table, the group chat lighting up the screen. 

The Split River Survivors.

Charley: MADDIE AND WALLY WHY ARE YOU GUYS NOT HERE YET

Nicole: Their flight would’ve only landed like an hour ago. It takes a while to get here from Madison.

Charley: Right.

Charley: I just miss you guys

Rhonda: You just want to listen to all the drama from the wedding. 

Charley: Semantics

Simon: Even I want to know. That message the other day was cryptic as shit.

Charley: See? Even Si agrees. And he doesn’t even care about drama.

Wally glanced up from his phone. “Shit, we didn’t tell them it was cancelled.”

“Shit.” Maddie said, already typing.

Maddie: I forgot to tell you guys. Our flight got cancelled. 

Maddie: Sorry.

Charley: WHAT?

Nicole: Everything okay??

Wally: Snowstorm over Colorado. 

Simon: Makes sense. We had a bad snow storm yesterday.

Maddie: Sorry I forgot, I’ve had a lot on my mind. 

Charley: What kind of things… 😏

Rhonda: Gross, Charley.

Charley: What? We were all thinking it.

Simon: I wasn’t. 

Charley:  Well duh, I know you weren’t. Maddie is practically your sister. But the rest of us, though?

Rhonda: Absolutely not

Nicole: I’m pretending I didn’t read that.

Maddie glanced over at Wally. “God, they are ridiculous.” 

Wally let out a laugh. “They are. But I love them.”

Maddie: Not that Charley. Other things. 

Wally: It’s my fault. 

Nicole: What do you mean?

Wally: I drank last night and I’m hungover. Maddie’s been caring for me all day.

Rhonda: Damn. What the hell happened at this wedding?

Maddie: A lot. 

Wally: We’ll tell you guys when we get home.

Charley: WE HAVE TO WAIT TO HEAR ALL THE TEA?? Charley: SPILL IT NOW

Wally: It’s better we tell you in person. So much happened. 

Wally: If I type it all out, we’ll be here all night.

Simon: Shit that bad?

Wally: Yep.

Charley: I’ll make the popcorn

Charley: Well since we have to WAIT for your tea.

Charley: I can spill the tea for what happened at school the other day.

Maddie: What happened?

Rhonda: Don’t encourage him. 

Charley: Too late. 

Charley: So Kingsley confronted Aurora in the cafeteria. 

Wally: About?

Rhonda: When Kingsley was being a bitch to you guys the other day. 

Charley: So turns out Aurora was hooking up with her boyfriend. 

Wally: Well, he did brag about it to the whole team.

Rhonda: Idiot. 

Charley: She literally did it in front of the school.

Maddie: Brutal.

Nicole: It was.

Charley: Then Kingsley dumped her entire soda on his head.

Rhonda: Deserved.

Charley: Best lunch entertainment ever. 

Simon: I hate that I missed that.

Maddie: Wait where were you?

Simon:  Went home early because I had a migraine.

They lingered in the chat, the conversation drifting between stories, teasing, and the usual chaos like they were right back in Wally’s living room or in Rhonda’s basement instead of thousands of miles away in a hotel room. 

As the night stretched on, the messages slowed as it became later in the evening in Wisconsin. Eventually Maddie set her phone aside, the room quieter except the sound from the TV. Wally turned off the TV and glanced over at Maddie before they both gave in to the exhaustion of the day, heading to bed. 

The next morning, they woke before the alarm went off. Soft morning light filtered through the curtains, the room quiet, still. For a moment, neither of them moved, just laying there, facing each other, close enough to feel each other’s breath. 

“Morning,” Maddie whispered.

Wally smiled softly. “Morning, beautiful.” 

He brushed a piece of hair from her face, his hand lingering, thumb grazing her cheek. Maddie leaned into it without thinking, her breath catching slightly - and that was all it took. 

Wally kissed her slowly, his lips warm and soft against hers, barely there at first- a gentle press that felt more like a question than anything else. 

Maddie answered it without hesitation. She shifted closer, closing the small space between them, her hand curling into his shirt, holding onto him like she needed him there. 

He felt it- paused for a second, his breath brushing against her lips as if checking - then kissed her again, deeper this time. Still careful, but no longer unsure. His hand slid more firmly along her cheek, fingers brushing into her hair as he adjusted to her, following her pace instead of setting it. 

Maddie felt butterflies flutter in her stomach, not because she was nervous but because she was kissing him with a deeper connection than ever before. She wanted more -no- she needed more. Needed him to touch more of her body than just her cheek and hair. Her breath hitched and her grip tightened in his shirt, pulling him closer without even thinking about it, as her hand moved across his body.

He moved with her, slow, matching her movements, until she guided his hand down to where she needed it. Not rushed, not hesitant. Just enough to make him pause.

He stilled instantly, pulling back, his forehead hovering close to hers, breath uneven. 

“Mads…” his voice was softer now, edged with something more serious. “Are you sure about this?”

She didn’t shy away. If anything, she leaned closer, her fingers brushing against him. “Would I have done this if I wasn't?"

He searched her face for a second longer. Just to be certain. Then he nodded, more to himself than anything. 

When he kissed her again, it was more deliberate. His touch stayed careful, like he was holding back just enough to make sure she was still comfortable. Their hands moved over one another, tracing each other's skin, slow and steady.

Maddie’s cheeks warmed, her breathing uneven as she leaned into him, letting herself get lost in his touch.

The more he kissed her, the more everything from the last couple of days, all the tension, the noise of it all- faded into the back of his mind. Until all he could think of was her. His hand tightened slightly where it rested against her, his fingers tracing tiny circles against her, until she gasped and clutched him firmly as a whimper slipped out of her mouth.

For a moment, everything in the world faded, nothing else mattered. Just this. Just them.

The sound of the alarm cut through loud and sudden. 

Maddie startled and Wally pulled back with a quiet breath of a laugh, rolling onto his back. 

“Great timing,” he muttered. 

Maddie covered her face, laughing softly, her cheeks flushed. “Yeah… really great.”

He glanced over at her, his eyes sparkled slightly. “Madison Nears, did I just make you…” 

She giggled, a bright red blush spread across her cheeks. “Maybe.”

“I’m taking that giggle as a yes.”        

“Guess we’ll never know for sure then,” Maddie huffed a quiet laugh. “Could you order breakfast for us? I’m going to take a shower.” She swung her legs off the side of the bed and made her way to the bathroom.

Wally couldn’t wipe the smile off his face as he reached for the room service menu, scanning the options before settling on pancakes with fresh fruit and coffee. 

Half an hour later, breakfast was delivered. Maddie and Wally settled on the couch, plates balanced between them as they ate. 

Wally couldn’t stop thinking about that morning – the closeness, the way everything had felt a little messy but real, the soft sound she’d made that hadn’t left his head since.

They hadn’t really talked about sex yet. Not properly. The thought sat heavier now than ever before. He knew it would be her first time, and that alone put a kind of pressure on him – not from her, never from her, but from himself. He wanted it to be right for her. Not rushed, not something she’d look back on and wish had been different. 

His first time wasn’t that. It was rushed, careless -with a girl he met when he was a councillor at a summer camp. Afterward, they had barely spoke the rest of the summer, and he began to realise that what he was feeling for Maddie was stronger than he cared to admit.

Maddie sat beside him on the couch, plate balanced on her knee, picking at her food more than actually eating it. 

“Hey…”

Wally glanced over. “Yeah?”

She hesitated, then looked at him properly. “About this morning.” 

He didn’t interrupt. Just waited. He had a feeling he knew what she was going to say. 

“I’m not ready for sex yet,” she said, quieter now, but steady.

Wally nodded slightly, like it wasn’t new information. “I know.”

Maddie didn’t look surprised. If anything, she just held his gaze for a second, like she’d expected that answer. Of course he knew. He’d been careful with her from the start. Never pushing, never assuming. She’d never had to question that with him. 

She shifted slightly, her fingers tightening around her fork before she added, “But I’m not… opposed to what we did.” 

The words came a little quicker now, a small, almost breath following them. 

“I just don’t want to rush past it,” she continued, softer. “Or mess it up.” 

Wally’s expression didn’t change in surprise – just softened, like he understood exactly what she meant. 

“Mads,” he said gently. “we’re not going to mess it up.”

A small pause. Then a little more serious. “And… I’m not Xavier.”

Those words were quiet, but certain. 

“I’m not going to get impatient, or make you feel like you owe me something,” he continued. “That’s not how this works. Not with me.”  

Something in her softened at that- not surprise, just a quiet kind of reassurance. For a second neither of them said anything. Then Maddie shifted closer, setting her plate on the coffee table before leaning lightly into him, her shoulder brushing his. 

Wally didn’t hesitate, his hand found hers where it rested between them, fingers threading together easily, like it was the most natural thing in the world.

She let out a small breath, something relieved in it, her head tipping just slightly toward him. 

“I love you, Wally Clark,” she said softly.

A smile spread across Wally’s face instantly. “I love you too.” 

Maddie smiled, leaning in first this time. The kiss was softer than before – slow, familiar, but steadier now. Like everything they’d been to each other had finally fallen into place.

By the time they made it back to Split River, it was almost 9 pm, the streetlights casting a soft glow over the fresh snow. 

The cold hit the second they stepped out of the Uber- sharp and immediate, the kind that stole the warmth from your lungs. Fresh snow blanketed everything, their footsteps crunching underneath as they made their way up the driveway. 

They were exhausted. The kind of tiredness that sat heavy behind your eyes. All they wanted was to get inside, warm up, and collapse. 

Wally dug for his keys in his bag and unlocked the door. The second the door opened and he flicked on the lights. 

“Surprise!”

Maddie flinched, letting out a small, startled laugh as Wally just froze in the doorway, blinking at the group gathered in his living room. They looked… far less surprised. Mostly tired. 

Rhonda crossed her arms, unimpressed. “I knew this was a bad idea. Why did I listen to Charley about doing surprises again?”

“Hey!” Charley shot back, looking personally attacked. 

Wally dragged a hand over his face. “How did you even get inside?”

“Rhonda did it.” Charley pointed immediately. “She picked the lock.”

Wally stared at her. “… That’s concerning.”

Rhonda shrugged. “It’s a useful skill.” 

Nicole stepped forward, hugging Maddie. “Welcome home.” 

“Thanks, Nicole.” 

“Let's get you two settled on the couch,” she said, grabbing their jackets from them. “You look…”

“Terrible.” Rhonda cut in. 

Nicole shot her a look. “Not the word I would have used. But she’s not wrong.” 

Wally and Maddie sat down in the living room, on the coffee table sat a variety of snacks. 

“We figured you would be hungry.” Simon gestured vaguely to the table. “I grabbed some things for you before coming here.”

Wally leaned forward, already grabbing something. “You’re my favourite person right now.”

“I thought that was me,” Maddie said lightly, reaching for a drink. 

Wally didn’t even look up. “You’re a very close second.” 

“Wow,” she deadpanned, though there was a small smile tugging at her lips. 

Charley dropped into the arm of the couch, leaning forward like he physically couldn’t wait any longer. “Okay, now that you’re eating – talk. What happened at the wedding?”

Wally leaned back slightly, dragging a hand over his face before exhaling. “So basically, my dad and I got into a fight before the wedding. About college. About everything really. He said I wasn’t smart enough to study kinesiology. And then he said that Maddie influenced me into not pursuing a scholarship.” 

His head shook slightly.

After that, we barely spoke. And then at the wedding, in his vows, he took a dig at my mom. Not subtle at all. And their first dance was to one of my moms favourite songs.” 

Nicole let out a slow breath. “Okay… that was a lot.”

Maddie glanced at her. “There’s more.” 

Simon looked between them. “More?”

Charley leaned even further forward, practically at the edge of his seat. “This is way better than any trashy reality show on Netflix.”

Wally huffed quietly, shaking his head. “I just… couldn’t deal with it after a while. So I grabbed a champagne bottle and got drunk.” 

“Wait-” Charley cut in. “I missed drunk Wally, again?”

Wally ignored him. 

“Then my dad and I argued again,” he went on, his voice tightening. “He started saying all this shit about Maddie. That she got me drunk. That she’s the reason I’m like this.” He paused briefly, jaw tightening. “And then she was drinking like her mom.”

Maddie’s gaze dropped for a second. 

Wally’s hands curled slightly.  “She wasn’t even drinking. He just- kept going. So, I punched him.”

A beat. 

“And after that,” he added quieter now, “he said he didn’t want to see me – and I said the same”

Silence settled briefly over the room. 

“That’s so messed up,” Simon said, leaning forward slightly.

Rhonda shook her head. “He fucking deserved that punch. Maybe even more for all that shit he said about Maddie.” 

Nicole glanced between them, her voice softer. “I’m so sorry, Wally. You didn’t deserve that. Neither did you, Mads” 

“You guys okay?” Simon asked. 

“I will be,” Wally said, nodding. 

Maddie gave a small nod. “I’m okay. It just caught bit off guard.”

“What are your step mom and sisters like?” Nicole asked. 

Maddie glanced at Wally. “Mallory is basically the female version of Edward.”

“Oh, so a dragon, then?” Charley added.

Wally huffed a quiet laugh. “Yeah. Basically.”

“Jess and Izzy were great, though,” Maddie said. “They’re kind of in the same position as Wally.”

“Yeah,” Wally said. “It helped.”

“Drama aside,” Charley said, “at least you got a free trip to California.”

“Yeah,” Wally said, a small breath leaving him. “That might be the last thing I take from my dad.” 

Confusion flicked across Simon’s face. “What do you mean?”

Wally hesitated for a second. “I’m thinking about cutting him out of my life. For good.” 

Silence settled over the room again.

“And if I do that” he continued, voice steadier now, “I don’t want to rely on him for college. Or anything.” 

Charley blinked. “What are you saying?” 

“I’m saying…” he paused, like his heart hadn’t caught up to the decision his mind already had. “I think I made a mistake about giving up a football scholarship.”

Part 24 Part 26

Tags: @lover1409@rosietoesy@jamiemoonymarks@unholypsychic@darth-jaderz@m3ntaltashia23@kellykeyser85@major-tomcat

[daisukiwaizumi]

tried to write a soft first-time blowjob iwaoi and instead it turned into iwaizumi with a corruption kink teaching oikawa how to deepthroat... and it’s the first fic i’ve posted online in like three years 😔😭

[thederphunter]

//I love to traumatize my children