“May I Join You”
ℭ𝔬𝔫𝔱𝔢𝔫𝔱 𝔚𝔞𝔯𝔫𝔦𝔫𝔤: Coarse language, foot in mouth moments, alcohol consumption, sexual fantasies and references, major flirting, roles, all the good good feels.
(For @gri959 whom after a simple text & image, a request was put in. Sorry this took ages)
The young actor longed for nothing more than an evening away from the spotlight, far from mortals that only demand and took till their hearts content. From having microphones pushed into his face, asking back handed questions. Sick of the facade he’s told to put on, publicity set ups, “opportunities”, it all leaves him questioning who truly likes him for him and who’s there because he’s “Joseph Quinn”, hot commodity, it’s definitely become a blurred line.
A typical Thursday night, scheduled to attend an event when an opportunity arises, seeing a chance to give security, his team and his “date” all the slip.
Immediately switching his phone off, his team in panic mode after a few minutes of searching, unsure where they last had eyes on him. Employing the sea of bodies, flashing lights as the opportunity to blend in (if at all) and make his escape.
Joseph removes his coat, able to hail a cab before anyone can recognize him, running a hand over his face, body lurched down, out of the publics eye.
“Where too?”
“Anywhere but here, please.” The cabby takes notice of the desperation in both his eyes and tone, setting his turn signal away from the area, adding distance.
“I know a spot.”
He finds himself dropped off in front of a lounge bar where he meets !reader (y/n), who manages the establishment. He’s not come across someone like you in a very long time if ever, for the first time in - ages, he feels normal by being dismissed, given the cold shoulder, especially when asked “ Joseph who?”
(un…Welcome)
The voice although gentle in nature is loud enough to halt you from continuing, without looking up, you apply an automated response.
“Sections closed off, there’s no service here.”
“Really?” The voice questioned friendly, finally lifting your gaze up with a look of your own, thinking who in the blue hell does this guy think he is.
“S’cuse me?”
“Just-sounds like some excuse someone uses when they want you to sod off.”
“Hmm, that so. Well then..”
Tilting his head in confusion with furrowed brows, your attention returned to your laptop. He lets out this “my word” gasp followed by the most insane, obnoxiously loud - genuine laugh you’ve ever heard another human make, refusing to admit the laugh was rather cutely - unique.
With that he’s gone, you’ve learned to tune out these sorts of interactions, no one ever bothers you, seeing you’re reserved and of course-the manager. It’s a local spot, where typically everyone knows - everyone, although outsiders are always welcomed, just not when your headspace is business and numbers.
Earlier that evening
The HIDEout lounge bar is noisier, rowdier than usual, one minute it’s a normal decibel level of loud, busy for a Thursday night. You along with your team have busted your asses off getting this place up and running, getting the word out there, social media presentation helps, jazzing up the menus, a large variety of happy hour drinks and the fact it’s in the old warehouse district that’s instantly become the trendy spot to be, it’s ever growing restaurants and of course The HIDEout, fully renovated. It’s spacious with an inviting ambiance and you’re only just begun.
Everyone contributes, assist where needed. Most of all, everyone receives a genuine experience of “welcome”.
Moments later another outburst of commotion, securities all over it - you’re not worried over fights breaking out. Though, this sounds - different, women, girls, men, PEOPLE whooping with their phones out, snapping away.
Influencer? Hope they remember to tag us is all you can think. Your team’s equipped to handle pushy fans, no pictures unless given the ok. It doesn’t occur to you that there’s anything out of the ordinary, until you realize the brouhaha is over.. him…
The Now
Your eyes follow the commotion, at the bar top, there he is, chatting up, laughing, hands flailing animatedly as he spoke with one of your bartenders. Had many people attempting to grab his focus, jesus- was this man’s attention and focus desired - lust by all and he damn well knew it. Presuming he must get off the fact he has his pick and say. Shaking your head, hoping this one won’t be any trouble or a nuisance. A few minute’s pass when a drink’s set down to your right.
“Tuck, why are you bringing me a Negroni?” Questioning while your sight doesn’t peel from your screen. You’re almost done, then you can finally unwind and assist the team.
“It’s from the young - dude at the bar, said you’ll enjoy it.”
With a small huff you look up to see your bartender smiling wide all goofy like, appearing flushed.
“T, you feeling ok? Coming down with something? I can get Gri-“
“Boss, you have any clue who this drink is from?”
“Lemme guess, some obnoxiously well mannered British male.”
“Umm - better known as Joseph Quinn! The actor! Here! In our establishment, trying to just - unwind.”
That caught your attention, though your pride will not allow you to turn your head with an expression of acknowledgement. Inhaling then exhaling, pushing your glasses up.
“Right, I - suppose he looked a bit familiar, just thought he was some influencer.”
“How many British influencers do you follow boss lady?”
“Shush it, just - keep em happy. If he ask for a private section, accommodate. But if..”
“Nah-he’s laid back, we already offered that, said he wants to just chill out, have a few drinks, unwind from the award show. Doesn’t want anyone to make a fuss over him here. So we asked the other patrons to respect that and ask first.”
“He - told you, all this?”
“He’s chatty and friendly! I’m blessed to have a welcoming personality with face to match.”
“Tuck, 6 out of 10 times I wanna punch you, with love of course.”
“Yes, but those 4 times though, count! Besides, he bought everyone a round to show he’s just here as one of us, though this one, he hand selected for you.”
“Ok - then keep em happy, don’t neglect the other patrons, just because he’s a celebrity doesn’t mean we should be at his beck and call.”
“I’d never request such a thing.”
You startle, hand draped over your chest. Turning to find the actor once more standing at the corner of your preferred table. Feigning a smile.
“Let us know if we can be of any service or assistance. Do enjoy your evening at The HIDEout.”
Damn you sound so bland, robotic, fake-yet the annoyance you carry with these celebrities and influencers assuming the world revolves around them. Their outlandish demands and audacious behavior. You catch yourself, this could be good exposure, if he even post once about being here, that’ll definitely boost business. Or - a pic with the staff? As he’s leaving of course.
While you inner dialogue, it’s Tuck who gently kicks your leg that snaps you back to the now. Met with soft honey glazed eyes, glasses hide them a bit-yet in this light, it all but makes them the main attraction.
“Flying solo, if you don’t mind. I’d like a night of peace and quiet.” Motioning if he could once again take a seat across from you, offering a half grin you cave, nodding your reply. Although-truthfully no explanation is warranted, you’re compelled to explain yourself.
“Under normal circumstances, no one normally interacts with me when I’m over here.”
“Why’s that?”
“Lack of eye contact or acknowledgment, off to the side is sorta self explanatory.”
“Go figure, didn’t catch that - not in the slightest.” Your eyes go from screen to him, already flashing a wide crooked smile. Eyes look from you to the neglected Negroni, reaching over to take the glass he kindly sent you, raising it.
“Salud!”
“Cheers!”
Realizing you won’t be rid of him anytime soon, you decide to become a good host. Closing your laptop, setting it aside, his eyes tracking your every move, then they’re back-full focus on you, refusing to admit this to him, he is a little intimidating.
You sit in comfortable silence, both enjoying your drinks, you’ll blame the alcohol, when you begin feeling a little cheeky, since he won’t leave you be. You take it upon yourself to mess with him a little.
“So - been in any movies or shows I might’ve seen?”
Joe does something that surprises you, gasped dramatically, flailing a hand over his head. Thumping it, letting out a gutted sound.
“Come to think of it, I may’ve seen a movie of yours. Yeah - a money heist film where you pretend to be naive and innocent till your character meets a girl named Marmalade! Then you two embark on a..”
“That’s - another Joe, not me.”
Taking another swig of your drink, you loath he knew exactly what your go to drink was. Enjoying this man literally pout then twist his lips in frustration. He’s caught off guard that you haven’t a clue who he is, so you persist. Snapping your fingers with a loud sound of recognition.
“Joe Keery! He’s - multi talented! Isn’t his music just captivating! We play it here all the time. The staff will play it when they wanna see me in a better mood.”
Something in the guy shifts, brows furrow, questioning.
“I could - introduce you? I know the guy.”
“Right! Like Joe Keery would waste even a second talking to me!”
“You’d be surprised, never knowing who truly wants to know the real you and who wants to just…”
“Sleep with you to say they bagged a celebrity or perhaps snag their 30 seconds of fame? Sounds like typical everyday life, only nicer scenery, more brand labels and snob tendencies.”
“You calling me a snob pumpkin puss?”
Your body deceives you, having an immediate reaction to the pet name, cheeks blooming red. Noticeably eliciting the reaction he aimed for, brushing it off you continue, he won’t get his way. You’re not one of his likely many - Quinn bunnies.
“So - ditched your team and date? Aren’t you seeing - what’s her name? Beautiful, talented, you’ve gotta tell her I loved her in Longlegs.”
“That would be - Maika Monroe, whom dated yet again the other Joe - Keery.”
“What can I say, I thoroughly enjoy that freckled man!”
Your attentions called over to the bar, seeing your team struggling, quickly excusing yourself. Doubting he’ll be there when you return, it’s getting busier, you called in reinforcements, until they arrive, you’re helping out taking orders and making drinks.
The talk of the night at the bar lounge is the well loved actor, one thing you hear continuously is how kind and sweet he is towards his fans and none fans, always taking the higher rode. Other talks are - about his nude scenes from Hoard, and if you pause it just right you can..
“Ladies, what can I get you started with.”
“Think we can - get a picture with Joe?”
“That’s up to him doll, just a reminder. He’s here like anyone of us, to unwind and enjoy the atmosphere, respect the man’s privacy.”
“Pffft - if he desired privacy he wouldn’t have taken on acting! Nor made this scene!” Flipping her phone over, your met with - a very nude Joseph. Not sure why, you’re hit with embarrassment, as if looking at a video that’s not for your eyes to look upon. Like seeing a friend which is ridiculous considering you both aren’t even that, let alone acquaintances. Quickly averting your sight, you go to the next group.
“I’ll come back to you ladies when you have a drink order ready for me. And that’s not playing.”
Time passes quick, enjoying making drinks, giving recommendations, getting to know the patrons. You loved bartending, always been great with people. But once the manager position opened up, it was the logical move.
Unbeknownst to you, you’ve had an audience. Spectating with wondrous eyes, you don’t cater, not afraid to push buttons, you - make him feel like any other guy. Finds he enjoys your smartassery ways, although he just met you - briefly. Though he’s aware his career is - anything but normal, finds himself forcing his sight off you as to not look like such a creeper, his gaze traversed his surrounding, HUGE mistake! Having to acknowledge (now) that ALL eyes were on him, eating him up, dissecting, judging, undressing, the circus animal on display, fully in trained mode, time to play his part.
It’s not in Joe’s nature to be rude nor arrogant, though he’s aware - he’s altered himself. Replaced with a facade adored by millions, the actor, the brand.
He acknowledges everyone, offers a wave, reminds himself to always smile, knows it’s a blessing, thankful and uber appreciative. He finished his drink, stands to use the restroom - wondering if you’ll return to the table or was this your way out.
Chancing a glance over to see he’s no longer sitting at your table. Finding that for some odd reason, you’re a little bummed, never finding the opportunity to ask how goofy is Pedro Pascal, how was it to work beside Denzel and Lupita. Most of all, his break through role (for you) as The Dungeon Master, the Freak Eddie Munson. Yes - you knew exactly who he was, yet reframed from giving him the attention he likely was used to because, well you respect boundaries and your own pride refused to cater. Plus, he’s a human being, if he’s here - it’s to feel, some normalcy, even if just for a bit.
The back up finally arrives, finish assisting them by clearing up the orders. On one of your rounds you spot him chatting up a group of females, all hanging on his every word. It has you thinking of his previous words. “You don’t know who likes you for you and who likes you because you’re a celebrity and in love with the illusion they’ve set.”
It has you sympathizing for the guy, though - being surrounded by young aroused women quickly snaps you out of such a sentiment. Right - poor guy, all these gorgeous females and only him to please them all, yeah he’s got it so bad.
Back at the bar top you check in with your team, everyone’s got it under control. Closing out your assigned tabs, getting lost in the music. One of the many benefits of working here, the comfort music brings.
When Use Somebody by Kings Of Leon comes on you can’t resist this - growing urge to look over where you last spotted him. They’re no longer there, likely he’s been charmed into leaving with the girls. Or perhaps the restrooms, your mind nefariously wanders to filth.
Blocking those thoughts and actor out, you head back to your table, in the middle of humming the last lyrics.
“Thought ya ditched me!” This man is going to give you a heart attack, out of no where he’s sitting across from you - once more. His child like nature and grin should annoy you - yet his company isn’t..unpleasant.
“Thought you left with your - new friends.”
“And leave our stimulating conversation of you continuously confusing me with Keery? Nevah!”
“Overlord.” That single word cuts Joe off, flashing you that one dimpled wide grin. Tilting your head, offering a quick chuckle. You cave, sending a text order for two whiskey’s, neat.
“I was being a frigid - hobgoblin.”
“I’d go with cautious, far from frigid or hobgoblin! So - you do know who I am - yeah?”
“Who hasn’t seen your work, you’ve been in 2 block buster movies every year for the past 2 years.”
Now that he’s aware you know who he is, Joe seems to stiffen - shift some what. Recalling his words, so the route you take is - treat em like any other patron you’d have a conversation with.
“What would you say is the best thing of this city and the worst.”
Leaving out any talk of movies, his career and so forth. Your drinks arrive, taking a swig, he ponders, possibly unsure.
“Drinks on me, call it a friendly do over.”
“Aaah - thanks, whiskey neat? Didn’t think..”
“I liked this sort of drink? When I’ve had a rough day, like utter shit or just horrendous, this is my go to, a classic that always hits the spot. Soooo..worse?!”
“Right - aaah worse would be - the traffic, it’s horrendous. Followed by - please don’t take this personally.”
“The people?! Hard facts! L.A traffic is horrendous and us Americans can be uptight, aloof, rude assholes! Well a good amount of us, trust me when I say, you haven’t met all of us. We’ll definitely surprise you.”
“That - you already have.”
You dare look up, his tone went monotone to having to pause to clear his throat, causing you to let out a genuine laugh - at his take on what? Possibly flirting, noticing Joe beginning to appear flustered. Shit, reminding yourself of his words.
“What’s best then?”
“The food! I’m a foodie, I’ll try anything and everything! I love to eat, though I’ve found myself having to cut back.”
“Oh, I think indulging a necessity. I get it, you have to stay fit or get fit-ter for a role. Just - eat less of, the role or rather wardrobe should fit you, not the other way around.”
You both find talking with one another comes natural, just flow. Switching from topic to topic, casually keeping the drinks coming. You have similar taste in music - though you argue your taste is more fluid and bad ass!
“You mentioned spending majority of your time here at work, how does - your partner feel about that.”
“Aaah well he doesn’t mind - kinda likes that I’m not home. Has time to himself to do as he pleases, because I don’t have one.”
The face he makes when catching on that you’re as single like a pringle has you foolishly presume something you should NEVER allow to even..think, for thinking like that is dangerous.
“Why’s that?” He follows up, eyes deadpan on you.
“I did the whole dating thing, it was fun for a bit, but - god don’t take this wrong. And if you do well, I always ended up being better off on my own.”
“Maybe you haven’t met the right man?”
“Perhaps - what about you? Aren’t you seeing D..” he cuts your last word with a very firm and “definite” clearing of his throat.
“If - you don’t mind, I’d rather not..discuss my relationships.”
“You know what ever we discuss stays between us, I don’t - well I guess I understand why you think the way you do.”
“I’m a private person, there’s some things I just won’t share. Her being one of them.”
“Course - we’ll cut the intrigue of our respective dating lives.”
After that hiccup, and your “you can ask yet I can’t ask acknowledgement” time flies when you’re having a good time, taking a look at your watch you shoot up almost stumbling.
“Shit! I have to start closing, umm - will you be here or?”
“I think it’s time I head out, pretty sure they have a search party out looking for me.” Retrieving his phone, observing him take a breath when he turns it back on. Finding that odd behavior, you merely collect your things, turn and offer a smile.
“This was - refreshing, it was nice chatting with you Joseph. Enjoy the rest of your evening and thank you for visiting The HIDEout.”
“Call me Joe, yeah - same.”
An awkward silence falls, both wanting to add something more to your farewell - yet, reframing. His phone keeps going off, full focus leaning on that rather than… You take the cue and walk away without another word, tucking away the laptop. You close down 2 registers, leave 2 open.
1 hour before closing, last call, food orders have been shut off. You’re counting slips when someone clears their throat, assuming it’s someone rushing since announcing last call. You look up - to your surprise it’s Joseph, you smile absent mindedly.
“What’s up! Want some agua or soda for the road?”
“No - aaaah I mean, no thank you, that’s not why I came, I’ve been made. They’re on their way here, I just - wanted to see if you- we could keep in touch?”
“Like - socials?”
“I mean - yeah we could, but I meant more like exchange numbers.”
“Yeah - you have a business card?” Looking for one of your own, you know you just got some in.
“Meant more like - personal number.”
“Can you do that? Wouldn’t you be afraid of getting doxed?”
“Are you going to dox me?”
“Claro que no, of course not.”
“Right on.” Bringing your phones together, storing one another’s digits. You watch as he traverses through people, making his way to the bartenders, saying his farewells and closing his tab.
It’s 10 past that you’ve closed when you finally head over to the office, putting the registers into the safe. Plopping your body onto your chair, rubbing at your temples. There’s a knock, one of the staff with their closed till.
Standing, walking over, pulling off your hair tie, allowing your locks to breath. You open the door, you have one of those “what the” moments.
“What the fu..”
Before you’re given any chance to finish your sentence, the actor has stepped inside, hands reached out, one griping you by the back of your head, thumb resting on your cheek, the other hand gripping you by your waist - rather demanding. Fully leaning into you, his lips capture yours.
He’s not gentle, the man knows exactly what he came for. Though a gentlemen he doesn’t dare demand you part your lips, you on the other hand fully commit. Mouth demanding entry, who’s this actor to deny your request. Once entry is granted your tongue taste the inside of his mouth, jesus is it audacious of you.
But the way you figure, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity and you’re not going to waste a good kiss moment. He’ll remember you by this, maybe for a day or two. You’ll leave your mark.
He lets out soft moans, swallowing every last one of them. Every sound he makes, you triumphantly claim a prize.
“Couldn’t leave, tried. Got - half way when, I ran out. Ran back here, had to -”
He’s explaining what needn’t be explained, through open mouthed kisses, tongues sucking and prodding you simply put.
“Stop explaining, there’s no need for it. Knew you couldn’t get enough of me.”
You giggle yet he nips at your bottom lip, taking it between his teeth and sucking. You easily allow yourself to be walked backwards towards your desk, both his hands hoist you up, setting you down at the edge.
How you crave to have this man nude and buried inside you! But - alas, you won’t push. Won’t make him feel like that’s all that’s expected of him, you really took his words to heart.
“Would it be presumptuous of me to ask if I may spend the rest of the evening with you? We don’t have to - you know, I just.. I find myself compelled not to let this night end. I apologize if showing up like thi..”
“Joe, did I give the slightest of hints your presence was not enjoyed or welcomed anytime through the night?”
“No..”
“Right then you - knob head, let me finish closing up, I’ll take you to my fave taco stand I frequent after work. Then I’ll take you to my place where we’ll keep the night going.”
“Knob head..”
“Ted Lasso..”
He nods and makes a call not before claiming your lips once more, it’s not sexual - knowing it’s crazy to say, this feels more like an understanding. That whatever comes of this night, will not be the last you two will see of the other. You make nor have any expectations, of the guy, if he wants to hangout and watch horror flicks, you’re game.
You plan on pulling up in your car, leave him tucked into a spot right outside that’s dim. There’s still people around and for some reason there’s papps. So someone must’ve tipped them off, he jumps into your vehicle right as flashes appeared. Thank god for your illegal tint that shields him from them making some $$ off his privacy.
“I can drop you off where ever you’re staying?”
“I’d rather go to yours, if that’s still on the table that is?”
He explains although there’s no need that he and “her” were mainly for show - attention, confessed he messed up by developing some feelings that lead no where. You offer advice and he laughs, he genuinely has a laugh at your expense.
He attempts to memorize the location, though he ends up “claiming” when ever he’s in town he’ll just have you take him since it’s your spot. You won’t read into that comment, wanting nothing more than to be a friendly face in the city that he can call a friend, if at all.
The evening takes an unexpected turn when some how finger’s lace to hold hands - to snuggling, to what he calls snogging. Then one thing leads to another and you’re making out hot and heavy on your couch, never taking it further than over the clothes and grinding, you both feel like teenagers exploring one another’s bodies, too afraid to remove anymore clothing, taking it too far on a whim. It’s - different, you want to take your time exploring every last inch of him. Praising all of him, you want to savor the moment.
“I’m drawn to you, you’re - fascinating, unlike any other girl I’ve met.” He confessed, being the little shit that you are, you smile wide. Pushing his glasses up, damn he’s so handsome, so - distinguished.
“That’s because I’m not just some girl, I’m a woman - that treats you like any other guy.”
The actor can’t resist nipping your chin, followed by claiming your lips once more, kissing you with such intensity he steals your breath away. With his hands on your hips steadily guiding your rhythm, he’s very confident when it comes to - this aspect. To your protest he stops all actions, breathy, he states.
“I don’t - hope this isn’t just…a one night thing! I have no clue where this may go, but I know I don’t want this to be the last time I see you, it can’t.”
“Then it won’t, I mean - doesn’t have too. It - can be what ever we make of it.”
