Soooo this was something that just kinda bit me and wouldn't let go til I finished it. The female in this is purposely kept ambitious so you can imagine whomever you like. Yourself, an OC, or a crack pairing. There will also be a part two. Enjoy! 😁
Salim liked to think of himself as a man with good self-control, staring down the barrel of a gun while in a vampire infested hall underground had proven that, however, he believed that Allah had truly begun to test him. He fixated on the woman in front of him from where he was leaning against the wall, arms over his chest as he took in the way she bent to rest her forearms against the courtyard wall. The sun was high as they both took their time enjoying the view in front of them. Her eyes on what was left of the plaza, him watching her hair dance in what little wind made its way through the camp.
“You’re staring again.” She said simply, not bothering to turn to face him, he had hoped he had been discreet with his attention, but it appears he had not. He said nothing for a moment, trying to collect his thoughts away from the way her body moved as she shifted her weight from one foot to the other.
“My apologies, if I have made you uncomfortable.” He finally said after clearing his throat, he wondered how times she had known his gaze strayed to her, finding her eyes as the light danced in them, the nape of her neck when she placed her hair up and her shirt riding up enough to see the small of her back. Where he wished to place soft kisses, where he wished to grip her hips tightly as he- Allah, he needed to stop. When his wife left him, he had resigned himself to a life of without such intimacies. He was no longer a young man ruled by his desires, needing only his son and his prayers, or so he had thought.
The woman before him shattered that notion by simply walking into his life, making him feel as if he was drowning with or without her, his time on his prayer mat doing little to help him center himself from this upheaval.
He was broken from his thoughts when she straightened, turning to face him, the hips that haunted him now leaning against the wall behind her.
“It doesn’t make me uncomfortable, only makes me wonder what you’re thinking.” A pointed look accompanied her words. Salim swallowed at having her full attention on him and prayed his face didn’t betray his wayward desires. He attempted to be lighthearted, to hopefully distract from the simmering heat he felt under his skin.
“Merely making sure you stay out trouble, it seems to follow you.”
She cracked a smile at his words but quickly dashed any hope that the subject would be dropped.
“While true, something else has been on your mind.” She gave him a thoughtful look before continuing. “What is really going on with you?”
“Nothing.” He quickly answered, he had no idea how she would react if she were to learn of the effects she had on him. He had no wish to cause her distress or strain their relationship.
“Are you sure? You seem like you’re having a hard time with something.”
“You have no idea.” Salim thought as she moved closer to him, it was times like this he wondered if she knew what she did to him. How he lingered on her mouth, wishing he could draw her bottom lip in between his teeth. On her breasts where he wanted to pull down her clothes enough to where he could lick and suckle on her nipples. He wondered if she’d make sweet sounds as he pleasured her with his tongue, lapping at her folds like a man dying of thirst. He could feel the heat under his skin moving to his lower belly, he silently thanked Allah that she had moved closer but now prayed she didn’t look down for his want was making itself apparent.
“Allah, I wish to worship her like the goddess she is….”
She had moved in front of him, concern in her eyes making him realize how long he had gone without responding to her.
“Salim, I’d like to think we’ve built up trust with what we’ve been through together. Can’t you tell me what’s been bothering you?” She placed a hand on his arm as she was speaking, making him feel as if she was burning him with her touch alone. He looked away, unable to look into her eyes for much longer his resolve was crumbling as she stayed near him. She stepped even closer, moved her hands to his face making him look at her again. His arms dropped to his sides and he clenched his hands into fists, trying to keep from grabbing her hips.
“Please Salim. Please tell me.”
Words so simply spoken were music to his ears, taking what little reservation he had left and sweeping it away with the wind in the courtyard.
“You, I’m thinking of you in ways that I should not.” At his words her eyes widen, but he kept speaking as if flood gates had been opened. “You’ve invaded my mind with such intrusive thoughts to where I may not even find peace in my faith. To where even as I pray, I no longer think of lying before Allah, but of you lying beneath me, allowing me to worship your body, welcoming me into your temple. Leaving pleasure as a hopeful offering that you may allow me to continue to feel your softness and quench this growing thirst that I’m cursed with. I want you in ways I should not, in ways I thought I would never want a woman again. You have taken my peace in a way that has left me ready to beg for your favor, for your blessing and offer every last wanton urge in my body to you in hopes that I may finally have sweet release.”
Their gazes were locked with one another’s as he poured his desire into his words. She never faltered, face flushing as he went on and she didn’t pull back as his hands finally found her hips. Silence fell over them as he closed his eyes after his confession, waited for her to reject him, to push him away, but instead he felt her arms side from his face to wrap around his neck. She pulled him closer, flush against his front as he felt her curves through fabric.
“Salim?”
He opened his eyes, staring into hers as he waited for salvation or damnation, for she could offer both.
Summary: Your day started with oversleeping and ended with an Iraqi lieutenant and an American lieutenant holding your hands? Who would have thought that falling into an ancient temple you've been searching for months would change your entire life?
Warning Sign: Mention of weapons. That's all. No monsters in this story, just an ancient temple and two countries that hate each other.
Word count: 3910 o.O
AN: JASON AND SALIM! Two men I couldn't decide between. I know I'm not the only one, so here you get two wholesome men. I'm struggling with the idea to continue the story in a second chapter, or writing just a little more extended, more romantic/smut ending. I will see if you guys want me to or not ;)
“Ah it’s going to be colder today. Finally.” Mumbling with a sleepy voice, I rolled over in my bed. It’s not comfortable, but It’ll do. Slowly rising from my deep slumber, I realised that the sun was quite high already. “What time it is?!!” I yelled and jumped off the bed, checking my phone. “2 pm? You must be kidding. Why did nobody wake me?” I ran over to my stuff and got dressed quickly, then I left the bedroom. Meeting the owners of the house. “Good morning.” I said while hustling to get my shoes on. The oldest man laughed: “No morning. After noon.” I looked him, he pointed to the table, where was some coffee and bread on a plate. Letting my shoulders drop, I smiled at him. They are all so overly kind, if I would just be better in learning their language. I sighed and took my one shoe off again, then I sat down and thanked him. We are supposed to pay them 20$ the week. But my team and I decided to pay them 50$ per week each. What Is a lot of money for them. And for their kids. It’s never a bad thing to give more. After I was done with my little breakfast, I suddenly heard helicopters. Two I would say. I know the risks, Iraq and the USA are still on a warpath, but this area here should be fine. It’s quite isolated. There is a small town in the near, with some market for local farmers. Nothing to get for the US.
I got my plate cleaned and got back to the main door, taking my shoes on, grabbing my bag and left the house, just to found myself surrounded by soldiers. They were pointing machine guns at me and yelled at me. The helicopters were right above me, then flying into the distance a little bit. My legs got shaky, and I couldn’t say anything, I got on the ground and one man tied my arms, then he led me back into the house. He pushed me down next to few of the house owners. A couple of minutes passed before a woman, wearing sunglasses entered the room, behind her was a man: “Everything clear, ma’am. No violence needed either.” He’s American. From the south I would even say Deep, long, slow words, with an immense rolled sound, must be the south.
The woman kneeled next to the shepherds and talked to them one by one, in Arabic. They answered her one by one, and her face grew more and more annoyed. She then kneeled in front of me: “What about her? Doesn’t look Iraqi to me.” She said and the man briefed her: “She was about to leave the house, hat a bag with many notebooks and various archaeologic books. All English.” She nodded at his words and spoke. “Then I’m sure you understand me girl?” I shook my head and raised an eyebrow: “It’s called racism. Saying somebody doesn’t look like a certain nationality. Girl.” I huffed at her. Her eyes grew big and the man behind her, tried clearly not to laugh. She then looks at the man behind her, “You said books in her bag. A passport too?” he only shook his head in response. “My passport is in my pocket.” I told her and she stood up. “Check her lieutenant.” She told the man, and he put his gun aside, walking to me.
He then pulled me up and patted me down. As he found my passport he chuckled, “British.” He gave the passport to the women. “What’s your business with the house owners?” She asked. I looked her dead in the eyes. “I’m an archaeologist. My team and I stay here, because the location where we work is only couple of miles from here.” She sighed at my response. “This is a waste, those are just shepherds, the activity he was seen, must have been you then. What was Eric thinking. Untie her lieutenant. Sergeant, untie the shepherds.” She said waving at another man and left the room. - “Thanks.” I said as the man untied me.
“So, your name is y/n? That’s a pretty name for a pretty girl.” The lieutenant said as he walked me to the main door. “First, thanks, but second, I’m not a girl, I’m a 29 years old women.” – “Guess I messed up already. No date then?” he stopped and looked back at me. I giggled at him. “Well maybe, mister military, you can come visit me sometimes when I’m back home. But it’s quite a long way from the USA to London.” I gave him a light nudge at the shoulder, without a warning he came two or even three steps closer, looking into my eyes. “To visit a beautiful woman like you, there is no way to far.” He whispered at me. With that he opened the door and signed me to go through. I stepped outside and searched for a little card in my bag. “Here, Lieutenant. Call me.” I offered him a business card, with a big smile, he took it. “University of Oxford. My luck, by the way, It’s Jason. Have a nice day ma’am.” He said waving me off. I waved back and walked to my car.
As I just turned away from Jason, shots fired. “Fuck!” I yelled and jumped in cover of my car. Then all I could realise, was chaos. Shots, bombs, crashing helicopters, yelling and screaming people. I tried to get around the car to hide near the old stable buildings, when suddenly the floor collapsed. “y/n!” Jason yelled from my left as I looked at him, I felt how everything underneath is breaking apart. “NO!” I tried to jump away, but almost lost balance, when a strong hand gabbed my arm and pulled me back up. A man with an Iraq uniform pulled me up “Go this way!” he pointed to the mountains, I didn’t care who he was, he saved me and I started running again, just then. I fell again. And this time for good. Everything turned black.
As I opened my eyes, I felt a sharp pain in my whole body. I looked around and realised right away where I was. “Holy shit. Found it!” I jumped up, just to regret it right away, as my body felt like broken. Stretching and checking for any wounds, I was shocked how lucky I got. A few scratches and bruises. But nothing serious. Then I took my bag and checked for my camera. Still working, great. I took photos of the immense pillars, old statues and Jason. Wait, Jason? “JASON!?” I yelled. – “Y/n! Are you alright?” out of nowhere, Jason appeared and came right away to me. He checked me left, right, up and down. I tried to calm him down, but he seemed nervous. “Jason, I’m fine, really.” – “No, maybe you have some injuries we don’t see right away.” – “Jason, I’m serious!” I yelled at him and pulled him by the shoulders. “I’m just a little cold. But it’s alright.” I tried my best to convince him that I was fine. He let out a deep sigh, and eventually calmed down. “I don’t have anything to warm you up. I could hug you, but that wouldn’t last long.” He smiled at me concerned, but I nudged him at the shoulder, “Yeah yeah, you just want some physical contact. Let’s check if somebody needs help.” He nodded at me and followed me through the darkness.
After quite some time striving through the darkness and me taking pictures from almost everything. We heard a male voice from behind “Put that gun down and turn slowly around.” I didn’t hesitate and lifted my arms up and turned around. “It’s you!” I said, looking at the Iraq soldier who saved me the first time I was falling. He smiled relieved at me, and I took my arms down again “You saved me, thank you.” I said, but then I realised Jason had turned around, but he had his gun aimed tight. “Don’t do anything stupid, boy.” The man said to Jason. “I can say the same to you, old man.” Jason hissed back. I took a deep breath and moved slowly between the two guns. “No one is shooting anyone, if I am here. Please.” My words were trembling. Not sure if I would make it out alive of here. The Iraq soldier lowered his gun and put it back into the holster. “I don’t want to spill anymore blood.” He spoke slowly, approaching me carefully, “You look like you are cold.” He said and took his jacket off.
“Don’t you fucking go any step closer to her. Y/n, get behind me, now!” Jason yelled, slowly approaching me as well, just that he had his damn gun still aimed. “Jason, stop it.” I said, placing my hand on top of his gun, slowly pushing it down. “I trust him. He saved me, not even knowing who I am.” – “I don’t.” Jason cut me off. The man lifted his arms, in one hand holding his jacket. “I know who you are. Your name is y/n l/n. You are an archaeologist. My son, Zain, has been running around your research area, every day for the last two weeks. He talked about you a lot.” He spoke slowly handing his jacket over to me. I took it. “Thank you” I spoke quiet. “Yeah, I know Zain. He’s a smart boy. Wants me to take him back to England.” I giggled at him. “It’s his birthday today. My name is Salim.” He smiled at me. I can’t let Jason harm him. Technically seen, I know Salim. What am I supposed to tell his son. Sorry, your dad died, because he tried to give me his jacket. I shook my head, throwing the jacket over my shoulders, I looked at Jason once more. “Come on. He’s not the enemy.” Jason only looked at Salim, with distrust. Then Salim spoke to Jason, directly. “You want to get out of here, so do I. We must work together. Not shoot each other.”
Jason finally took the gun down. “I’ll keep an eye on you.” He said, pointing at Salim. I nudged Jason slightly against the shoulder. He will have bruise by the end of the day. Then we continued the way to find others. What felt like hours, were actually only a couple of minutes, but the fact that these two were arguing the whole time about military, racism, politics, terrorists and other stuff like lieutenant ranks, was killing every last nerve of me. As walked some ancient stairs up, I heard voices arguing. I pressed each of the two man a finger on the mouth, so they would finally shut up. Then pointed to the big door at the end of the stairs. Salim and Jason both, walked past me with aimed guns. I stayed behind and waited for a sign. It took too long for my taste, so I entered the room quietly and stood next to Salim. In the big room where machine guns, tables, radios, papers and more. It was the heart of this temple. An old archaeologist station. Just as I wanted to check the papers, Salim pulled me back. I looked at him and he looked at me, then around the room. As I followed his view, it was clear the situation was tense. Iraqi soldiers and Americans were with aimed guns standing against each other. Just Salim and Jason didn’t pick a side. “It’s a damn order Kolchek!” A blonde man yelled. “I don’t take orders 200 ft below the surface.” Was Jasons answer. What badass.
“Ehm, excuse me.” I spoke and walked a few steps in front of Jason and Salim. Both men grabbed me by my arms and wanted to pull me back. “I got this, don’t worry.” I spoke, they hesitated but let me go. I took around 3 steps more and spoke softly. “My name is y/n l/n. I’m an archaeologist. And a professor at the University of Oxford. I don’t have anything to do with both of your countries, and honestly not much knowledge about the current issues between you. But technically seen, you are on my research territory. I would really not like to call the local police, or clean your blood from ancient coins, so if you’d be so kind and do not fire a single bullet on MY ground. Would be so wonderful. Thank you.” I looked back and while Jason smiled amused, Salim was shaking his head. I ignored all military personal and made my way to the tables. 10 years of drama class is finally paying out, they have no idea I was terrified to the bones. One by one soldier eventually took their guns down and they made a hand sealed deal, to not shoot a bullet on or near my research territory.
It worked. Good job. As I checked the first papers, I realised, this is like heaven. I took more photos from everything. This time, again from Jason, but also from Salim. Both smiled at the camera. “Come on y/n. We have to get out of here for now.” Jason spoke as he followed the others. “What about all this then? This is the only reason I am in this country at all.” I asked frustrated. Jason chuckled, “You’ll come back. But now we need to go. It’s not safe.” I let out a sigh and started following them, as the most people left the sight, Salim, Jason and I were the last. They talked different this time, more like allies.
As we made it closer to the surface, I could see the sun finally again. It was warmer here than down back there. Different helicopters were heard, people yelling, dogs barking. They must be searching already. Ropes hang down and flashlights were blinding us. I tried to cover my eyes, what was not a good idea, so close next to an underground cliff. With a crack, the ground beneath me broke and I all felt was the heavy forces of gravity. “Y/n!” was the last thing I heard before the heavy impact on a sand pile.
First my back, then my face, then both hands and at last the back again. “Ouch, Fuck!” I cursed with an echo. As I opened my eyes, pain everywhere. Looking around and above, it was almost pitch black. I gave my bag to Jason earlier, so luckily my camera didn’t come down with me. But also, my flashlight was not with me. Slowly I tried to get used to the darkness and to see anything. I touched along the cliff where I have fallen from. I heard echoes, but it was inaudible, what means I’m either deaf or I’m very deep. Following the cliff to the right, it ended in water. With wet shoes, I turned around and walked to the left. My hands along the ice-cold stone, they slowly froze. Luckily, I have Salim’s jacket, my arms would be more bruised. I continued walking along the cliff as I felt that the ground got higher. I might could climb out of here. If the others think I’m dead? Trying to shake that thought away, I pushed myself the higher grounds up and felt how the light slowly came back to me. It seems my eyes were partially blind due to the fall. So, I might have not fallen that deep.
It feels like hours as I finally reached an open area where lights came from ahead. Still far away. To my bad, I started freezing again. This time, it felt more like I was freezing because I was alone. I sat down to the cold ground. “Why does every time go everything wrong. And why does nobody care for me.” I muffled beneath my breath and closed my eyes. “You really thought we wouldn’t care?” A southern accent ripped me out of my thoughts, I opened my eyes and saw Jason above me. “She’s here!” He yelled across the area; it echoed in the entire cave. Jason smiled at me and began stroking my face. Then Salim came from behind him. His face was a mess, a mix of horror, fear, worries, but happiness. “What are you doing here?” I whispered, not believing if I might hallucinate. Salim looked confused and Jason chuckled, then said: “What do you mean? We- ” Salim interrupted him: “We came for you.” At his words, my eyes started tearing up, but my mind was a mess of emotions, incapable to say anything.
Jason helped me up, then he lifted me on Salim’s back. “I’ll be behind you, so you can’t fall off.” Jason spoke softly, rubbing my back. Salim turned his head a little, “We won’t let you fall ever again. I promise.” He whispered to me. As they started climbing towards the surface I started to cry silently. How do I deserve them. My life was all the opposite of support, care and understanding. But these two give me the feeling I’m worthy to be alive. As if they really care. I just met them hours ago, but I have the unbelievable urge, to never let go of them. I wanted to thank them, but no word left my mouth. “We’ll be taking you to a hospital.” Jason said from behind us. I shook my head heavy. “No… They’ll maybe… send me home.” It was so exhausted. Salim spoke a little louder now, “But you need to rest Habibti. No arguing.” – “What you said?” I heard that word before, what I wasn’t sure what it meant. Salim chuckled, “It means ‘my love’.” He called me his love? Was he thinking the same about me as I was thinking about him? Or is this standard kindness in Iraq. Anyway, he was right. I feel more and more like I’m fainting; my body hurts bad. But I know I didn’t break any bones.
After a while, we finally reached the exit to the surface. Salim let me down slowly, Jason helped, so I won’t fall. “I’m alright. You can stop pretending that every bone of mine is broken.” My voice was angry. I was a little frustrated, they acted as if I have been a small child. Jason took my chin in one hand and whispered. “We will not let go of you anymore, next time you fall, you might break your neck.” He was right, but still. A little less overprotection please. “Let’s get her out of here.” Salim tied a climbing rope around me, from above two people were standing. “Pull her up guys.” Jason yelled above. Then Jason and Salim started climbing themselves. “You know, I grew up in caves, temples, pyramids and castles. I know how to climb.” I crossed my hands in front of my chest and puffed my checks in protest, as they pulled me up slowly. “Y/n stop arguing. You have fallen very deep, you might pass out, let go of the rope and fall again.” Salim spoke concerned. “I promise you, once we made sure you are on solid ground and doctors gives their ok. You are free to do whatever you like.” He said, Jason cut him off. “Except going down here again. First this must secure. I guess the local police will do that?” I nodded at him. “Yes, they usually do. First, I just want to take a shower and then sleep.” Both men laughed and agreed.
Reaching the surface, the sun almost blinded me, then my heart stopped beating. The shepherd’s hut was in bad condition. Parts have fallen into the ground; few smaller buildings were destroyed from bombs and bullets. “The poor people. Their homes. This must have been the worst day of their life.” I sighed and sat on the ground to take in the information, my eyes gave me. Jason stood beside me and laid his hand on my head. “Sorry about that. We will find you another place to stay.” – “No.” I said, “I will of course stay here and help them where I can, just as my team will do, probably.” Then Salim kneeled next to me and laid a hand on my shoulder. “For now, the police have to secure the area.” He spoke softly. “You should come with me. To rest.” His warm smile was so beautiful. I look him in the eyes, ready to speak as Jason’s huffed so loud, few people around us were suddenly looking at him. I looked at him worried and saw how he frowned. “To your place? Yeah, sure.” He shook his head and turned to leave. Salim stood up, “I hoped you’d come with us as well, or maybe join us later, when you get a free from your duty.” As Salim spoke, Jason stopped.
“As if you would want me there. You want to have y/n all for yourself. I’m not blind!” he spoke loud and angry. But also, sad. He didn’t even turn around to face us directly. I got up from the ground and wanted to walk to him, but Salim stopped me. “And I am not blind either. I see how much you care. Just as I do. And I know, you and I care for each other, just as we did, when we worked together to get her back.” Salim was so calm, I doubt I could ever be mad at him, and it seems Jason thought the same. He turned around, his face eventually softer. But before he could speak, I took Salim’s hand and reached out for Jason as well. “How about that date we talked earlier, Marine. I think I owe you two some nice dinner? For getting me out there.” Jason smiled at my offer and took my hand. “Alright, alright, you got me all wrapped around your finger. So, where’s your place? I think I can’t join right away, but I’ll be there for dinner then.” His voice was finally as it was when we met earlier. Not that tense, not worried, just Jason. Salim chuckled and wrote a little note for Jason. He hugged me tight, before he had to return to his team.
Salim and I started walking to my car. “What a miracle that piece of junk didn’t went diving.” I said honestly surprised. Salim and I laughed at my really bad joke and got in the car. He drove, first to my research place, to inform the others about what happened. “They won’t believe it.” I sighed. “Not until they come back to the hut and see with their own eyes.” Salim said and gave me an assuring pat on my shoulder. I nodded, “Yeah, and I can’t wait to put my legs up, everything is sore.” I sighed again. He chuckled and brushed over my arm, “first, you need to take a shower. I will not let you get in my bed or couch that dirty.” I laughed and took his hand in mine. Holding hands, we made our way. I can’t wait to see Jason again. How can you fall for two people. I guess it’s because I have a very big heart. Maybe? Polyamorous it’s called. I’m not sure what future will hold, but I’m thankful for the moments I will have with the two. Every single second.
So what do you think? Second chapter? Or should i just extend the ending a bit? Or is it fine that way? Please let me know ^^
Summary: Salim finaly got his well deserved bath and it’s just a bonus that you join him.
Words: 3300~
Genre: Smut
The sun slowly made its way beyond the horizon, enfolding the dusty brick houses with soft gold, coloring the sky to the combination of orange, pink and red like an always blooming garden. Salim wiped off a new stream of sweat that escaped from under his helmet onto his forehead, huffing in the scorching heat, his boots stirring the sand below his feet.
His skin glimmered with the day's sweat after the wearisome hours needing to patrol and overwatch the nearby area in search of any hostile activity. His shoulder and back ached from the rifle's weight, he needed to hold, wanting nothing more but a quiet hour in the cool, dark inside of his little home, soaking in freshwater, relaxing his sore muscles.
Zain mentioned a few days earlier to him that he'll have an important exam in the upcoming weeks, and Salim wanted to make sure he showed his son his support and care, even now, when they lived so far apart from one another.
Especially now. He bit his lip, thinking back how messy and unprofessional he was with Zain, when the boy was still studying inland, only managing little to zero time to get involved with his son's education.
It feels like a late save option, one last desperate try to be there for his only boy, and this made Salim feel terrible sometimes. But it was just in his head- every time he called Zain, the boy sounded so eager to tell every detail to his Baba, from his mornings to the college's schedule, and Salim was more than happy to listen and share this new adventure with Zain.
They agreed on a reasonable time, when both of them could be mostly ready for a call, to contact and speak every day, and this day was no different. Salim needed to be at least moderately ready in mind to take into every information Zain will drop on him. He wanted to hear from him.
"Get freshed up quickly, you need to be saloon ready in two hours, Othman." He reminded himself under his nose, finally opening the doors.
The cool air rushed out from the opening of the door, hitting Salim in the face, the breeze immediately lowering his body heat to bearable measures.
The second thing he felt was the smell. Spices and cooked meals, his stomach rumbling, saliva rushing to his mouth.
Smiling to himself, Salim walked in, placing his helmet and rifle to the wall, kicking off his boots. As he looked up to the kitchen counter he saw the delicious foods; freshly made and ready to eat.
"Just in time!" You called out from the living room. "The quzi is ready to eat."
Stepping in the kitchen you tilted your head back to the living room before walking up to Salim, arms coming up to embrace his neck, you turned to give him a kiss on the cheek.
"Hello Habibee." He smiled, tugging you closer to his chest, inhaling your sweet scent.
"Oh you're sweaty." You frowned when you felt the cold sweat on your skin, sticking to Salim's neck and face.
"And probably dirty." He sighed with a chuckle, pulling away, but his palms remained on your sides. "I should go wash before we eat. Then be ready for Zain's call."
You nod, a soft smile coming up to your lips as you gaze into Salim's warm brown eyes. "I'll go make a bath for you, take your clothes to the laundry until then." You tilted your head up, pecking his lips one last time, before you slipped out from the kitchen to the short hallway.
For a few seconds Salim didn't move, he watched as you walked away, thinking how lucky he got to have someone he loves so dearly; so gentle and caring, filling his heart with love and happiness again after years of solitude. He feared he would forget how to fall in love and have someone with who he wants to be, but all his fears disappeared when you came into his life.
Finally he felt that warmth in his chest, what he missed so much– he was giddy and nervous again, head dizzy with your thoughts, stomach full with butterflies.
Your comforting frame then vanished, leaving him in the mouth-watering smells.
Dropping his coat and shirt into the laundry bag, Salim stretched his back; joints popping loudly before he made his way to the bathroom. You weren't there anymore, probably went back to have your well deserved dinner, but he didn't mind– he'll catch up on the meal soon.
The Iraqi man stood beside the bathtub; the water radiazed an enjoyable heat, perfect for his tired body, and the room started to fill up with a sweet lemon- and coconut scent.
Humming approvingly, Salim unbuckled his belt, and after a few seconds, shuffling out of his trouser and underwear, the last pieces of his clothes were gone.
As the warm waters hit his leg and back, a quiet moan slipped from Salim's lips, head falling back to the bathtab's rim, his eyelids became more and more heavy.
He could feel the dirt finally coming off of his skin, the sweat disappearing from his nape.
Then Salim heard your footsteps, getting louder and louder as you approached the room again, a slight creek from the opening door and a sudden cold breeze that made him shiver down his spine. With a soft whine, Salim shrank deeper into the tub until only his face was above the surface.
"Oh." You chuckle, closing the door behind you. "Got a little cold, in this scorching heat?" Teasing, you squatted down beside him, laying over the bathtub's edge with your arm.
"I would prefer being cold in the water rather than to step outside in this heat again." Salim stated, smiling at you. He brought his arm up, the water dripping over the tub, onto your clothes, as he smeared the water over your arm.
Snorting you jumped, dipping your hands into the water to splash him.
"Stop before you soak everything." You giggled.
With a mischievous grin, Salim took your hand, stopping you from answering his attacks, while he dabbed more waves toward you.
"You want to pour out all the water from there, don't you?" You laughed, but as soon as his grip slipped from your wrist you spattered a handful of water into his face. You heard a big splash behind his back, as Salim squinted his eyes, shaking his head.
You snickered, seeing this grown up man being so childish with you, goofing around like a teenager. You loved Salim's playfulness; in this stern and dark world around you, he always managed to make you feel hopeful and happy.
"Alright that's it!" He huffed, lunging forward at you. Salim swung his arms around your middle, the sudden damp feeling around your back made you grimace, but as you wanted to start your protest, you felt his hold tighten around you, strong arms pulling you towards the water.
Only a high pitched squeak could escape your lips, before Salim drew you into the water on top of him, your dry clothes immediately sticking to your skin, dragging you down with the suddenly added weight.
The sound of dripping water suddenly reached your ear, as your form pushed it out from the tub.
Cleaning this up…. It will take HIM some time, for sure.
Your legs stuck up in the edge of the tub, while leaning back your only support was Salim's arms around you, and your's clinging to his shoulders.
Suddenly the two of you fell silent, listening to the bubbling and dripping water, the faint sound of your wet clothes squelching at your skin.
After a few seconds, Salim made the first movement; slowly leaning into your shoulder. He gave you a quick kiss on your shoulder blades, his hands coming to rest on your hips.
"Sorry about that…" He mumbled as his lips glided over your clothes, until he reached your neck.
"It's okay." You whispered, and tilted your head to give him more access to your skin. Salim understood the invitations, pampering the side of your neck with soft kisses, moving from the crook of your neck up behind your ear. He nuzzled his nose into your skin as he opened his mouth for a light nip. Closing your eyes you sighed, head falling back.
"Salim…" You gasped as he pinched the skin between his teeth ever so slightly, just to release it with a slow motion. "Salim."
He hummed, bringing his head up to your face to look at you.
He looked almost dazed, his deep brown eyes heavy and fogged by lust, searching for your mouth and neck between his heated looks.
Heat crept upon your cheeks, a familiar feeling in your stomach as your heart hammered under Salim's gaze.
"Yes Habibee?" He murmured, one hand coming up to your jaw; large and warm finger seizing you.
Instead of giving an answer, you grabbed the tub and raised yourself up from him; only to bring your legs in, facing Salim with your body.
You placed your knees beside his thighs, hovering over him as you inched closed to his lips, finally catching him for a proper kiss.
Salim let out a moan, his hand sliding back to your nape to pull you closer, teeth nibbling your bottom lips. His tongue draped out, sliding over your soft lips before he parted them for better access. His tongue explored you; slowly, dragging out every lap and lick; as if it was the first time he tasted you, trying to memorize every detail.
Lost in the feeling of his warmness, in the way he worked his way over your flushed lips, you almost didn't even notice as his fingers slid below your shirt.
Only when he found your breast, you realized he's holding you in an embrace, you cannot escape.
"Off with it." He grunted into your mouth, grabbing the hem of your shirt. You leaned back onto your knees to raise your arms, as Salim impatiently pulled off it, crumpled it in his palms, tossing it out of the tub.
You reached back for your bras, but Salim's fingers found the fabric before you could.
He ran his palms up over your shoulders and neck, fingertips mapping out every detail on your skin.
Fingers stopping at the straps, he hooked the index finger into it, expression suddenly melted into a soft smile, looking into your eyes with adoration.
"Can I help you?" He asked, grazing over your skin with one finger.
"Please." You gave him permission with a nod, leaning down to place soft kisses over his forehead and nose.
Salim hummed as he pushed down the soft fabric, light touches tickling you in the process. Slowly he moved his hands down to your back, where he pinched the bra. After a moment he unbuttoned it, the pressure leaving your chest in that moment.
You wanted to take a breath in, but it turned into a sharp gasp when the man cupped your breasts, tilting his head down to kiss up a line on the shell of it.
"So beautiful." He cooed, his lips brushing into your skin. "So soft and perfect for me." Salim said as his hand moved to one of your nipples, rolling it between his thumb.
You inhaled, mouth falling agape as he kissed you other teat, tongue drawing out to brush over it.
"How perfectly you fit into my hand, Habibee." Salim brushed his nose over your hardening bud, before he finally locked his lips around it, sucking in hard.
Your eyes fell shut, head lolling back to arch your chest into his mouth, trembling hands coming up into his damp hair.
Salim flicked his tongue, earning a breathy moan from you, as you tucked his hair a little harder. Humming he pinched the other nipple between his fingers.
"Salim…" You breathed, placing your chin over his head, nuzzling closer to his touch. You felt his hardened cock between your thighs over your soaked jeans, pressing slightly up into you.
Without thoughts, you started moving; slowly rocking your hips into his, the arising waves in the tub giving you a steady rhythm.
You heard a choked groan over your chest, Salim quickly letting you go, to tilt up his head.
"Stop Hayati. Stop." He heaved, locking your hips in one place. "Let me feel you."
Gently, he moved you away from his chest, sitting you back to your knees, finger digging into your jeans.
"Take this off Habibee." He ordered, lips pressed on your neck as he fumbled with the button and zipper.
You stretched your legs on his side, back leaning onto the other side of the bathtub, so Salim could tug it down.
It was harder to remove than your shirt; the thick denim clumped your legs, Salim had to almost fight to shake it off of you hurriedly.
With your lower arms you braced yourself on the tub's outer surface, palms sliding slightly with the movements. You giggled hearing your man's impatient puffs and groans, but you were just as eager to have him in your arms, to feel his large palms and strong legs around you.
With a loud pop the fabric finally let go off your ankle, hauling Salim back in the process, almost hitting his back on the opposite side, if not for his quick reflex, catching the tub's rim.
With a victorious snicker he showed your jeans over his head, throwing it up on the sink.
"I'm working hard for you." Salim cocked one eyebrow, mischief in his eyes as he slid back in front of you, fingers sneaking around your ankles, drawing your leg up to his side.
"Hmmm…" Pressing your back to the tub, you stretched a little; knees coming to rub up- and down on Salim's side. "You need to work on me hard, Hayati." You draw out the words as you tilted your head up.
A roguish smile spread across Salim's lips, leaning closer he drew his knees under your ass, with one firm movement lifting you up from the tub into his lap.
"If you'll allow me." He mumbled into your ear, lips moving around to nibble on your earlobe.
"Yes, please." Having enough of the long teasing, you finally pushed yourself up against Salim's length. A choked gasp fell upon his lips, hands steeled on your thighs as you losely brace one arm on his shoulder.
Sneaking your other hand down between your bodies, you gently brushed over the head of his cock.
"Hayati…" Salim groaned, nose puffing the air over your shoulder as he tensed up, hips bucking into your touch.
Heart hammering in your chest, you quickly wrapped your fingers around him, finally guiding the tip to your slit.
Closing your eyes you nudged your hips forwards, slowly brushing the head between your folds. A sudden knot started to appear in your belly, delicious teasing for both of you - Salim let out a small moan over your shoulder.
The man held you firmly in his arms, chin pressed to your collarbone as he planted peppering kisses over your skin.
Your heart fluttered, thinking about how much love and devotion Salim had for you. How he was always so gentle with you; listening to every wish and need of yours, giving you his all.
Whilst being a soldier – a prestigious, efficient officer, Salim showed the utmost respect, care and affection to you, never allowing a rough touch, a harsh word, a mistreated act fell upon you.
You knew that despite everything he did, Salim was the sweetest, most gentle soul you ever met.
You wanted to give him everything, you wanted him to feel just the way he made you feel.
"Hayati, please." Salim breathed, squeezing your hips, finger caressing over your skin. "Please let me inside." His voice was soft, and needy, almost a beg, as he kissed your neck.
Humming approvingly, you let him take hold, your legs relaxing around him, as Salim finally pulled you down onto him slowly, inch by inch, waiting for you to adjust to his size.
A loud moan left your lips when you felt his cock pushing inside, stroking your walls as the familiar faint sting waved through your cunt, melting into pleasure.
"That's it Hobbey, that's it." He encouraged you with breathy pants, lips never leaving your neck. "So tight for me, so perfect."
Fingers combing through his hair, you arched your back, head falling behind as your hips met, his cock already reaching your deepest spots.
For a moment neither of you moved. Blood pulsing in your heart and ears, you wanted to move - feel his throbbing veins inside, how the slight curve of his length pushed up against you, how his pubic hair teased your clit - but you waited for him. You gave him the control, for now.
"Aleaziz, can I move now?" He rasped breathy. You could feel the way his body wrapped around you so rigidly, the sudden twitch of his hips and legs, how quickly Salim blew out the air in his nose – he couldn't hold back much longer, even if you would have wanted to, his patience started to fail, as he struggled to restrain himself.
"Fuck me already." Before you could finish the words, the air stuck in your throat, when Salim swiftly lifted you hips up, pulling down immediately back to the base of his cock.
Eyes fell shut, your mouth went agape as he picked up a demanding pace making you bounce on him.
The water started to wave from one end to another– bigger and bigger, splashing out the tub to the gray tile.
"You're so perfect, so beautiful right now, " Salim heaved between kisses and nibbles. "Hobi, you're the sweetest… taste divine."
A particularly loud moan escaped your lips as Salim slid a hand from your hips where you two were joined, rubbing quick circles at your clit.
You felt in your core the knot getting tighter with each drag as he hit that sweet spot that made you see stars.
"Salim…Habibi I…"
Salim moved his free hand from your side, coming to tilt your head back down, pressing your forehead to his.
"I know Jamil, I know. Let go Habibtee." Salim heaved, lips brushing over yours.
As he saw you were on the edge of your release, Salim jerked his finger on your clit, pushing himself up in you, filling you to the brim.
With a gasp your mouth opened to a silent cry as you threw you head back and your climax waved through you.
Salim grunted, feeling your walls squelched around his cock tightly. Grabbing your legs, he squished you to his side, holding your pussy around him as he rocked his hips up to your in rapid motions. A few more thrusts and as you came down from your high you felt Salim's hips stop, twitching inside you as he orgasmed - painting your walls with his seed.
While you were catching your breath, you placed your arms around Salim's neck, bringing his head to your shoulder.
You would have held him forever like this, but soon you started to feel the thin line of sweat, dripping from your forehead.
"Habibi, can you believe it? I got sweaty in the water." You chuckled, wiping your forehead.
Snickering, Salim rubbed your arms, giving a sweet peck on your lips as he looked into your eyes – eyes sparkling with joy.
"Let's take a bath again," He offered, scooting away a bit. "I'll wash your back."
Turning in the tub, with a tired smile you picked up a bottle from the edge, handing it over to him.
"Oh my! Do we have time for dinner before we call our boy?" He asked, sudden worry in his voice.
"Depends on how quick we can get ready." You giggled thanking God that he sent Salim into your life.
- There's no doubt this man is the sweetest and kindest soul you've ever met
- You met at your workplace soon after he'd been sent home after a recent mission
- It's safe to say you clicked instantly
- He'd then come over to visit you around the time that your shift would be over so the two of you can properly spend time together
- It was the friendly banter that encaptivated you and made you interested in the man
- Yes, he's a lieutenant but he never thinks twice about showing you his soft and almost childish side
- When he finally asked you out on a date, a day before he was supposed to leave for a very complicated and risky mission, you had mixed feelings
- On one hand you didn't want your first date to be your last
- On the other you wanted to at least show the man that you too had feelings for him before he'd go off to risk his life
- Knowing he'd understand, you expressed these concerns with him, all while on the verge of tears
- With a kiss on your forehead, he made a promise that night
- He promised he wouldn't let that be your last date
- And believe me when I say, a soldier never breaks a promise
- You learned this when, upon opening your front door after a set of knocks echoed from it, you came face to face with a very exhausted but still smiling Salim
- That's the moment you felt true happiness for the first time
- Nothing superficial or restrained about it
- You felt his embrace before his arms were even around you
- You felt his lips before they even touched yours
- And, it’s safe to say that since then the two of you have been inseparable
- Salim’s missions have become fewer with the war coming to a close and then finally ending
- Which is when the two of you moved in together
- Zain wasn’t immediately onboard with your relationship but he never allowed himself to show it
- Especially with how sweet you always were to him
- Eventually, definitely not long afterwards, he warmed up to you
- And I mean A LOT
- You’d be his partner in crime, in the most metaphorical sense of the phrase because you were actually the one to get him to drop the habit of stealing
- When I say partner in crime, I mean you were and still are the one helping him prank Salim or help him hide a mess he made or get him out of trouble
- And boy does that make Salim the happiest he’s ever been
- The man never thought a new significant other would enter his life, nor did he think he would let anyone in
- He never thought he’d have someone who would comfort him when he’d wake up from a nightmare he had
- Although, to be fair, he hasn’t had many nightmares since you moved in
- Knowing you were in his arms or he was in yours made him feel safe and sleep soundly once in a long while
- Cuddling with you has been a more effective solution to his sleeping problems than the pills he used to take
- Which is why he dropped them
- You and Zain are all he needs in life
- Your smiles and happiness is what makes him happy
- It reminds him what he has been fighting for all along
*Comes out of depression mancave while blowing confetti everywhere without consent* WHAT IS UP PEEPS, I AM BACK. Not stronger then ever, but still hanging in there lol chapter 15 is finally up (tldr: my google docs work got deleted and mental health was big booboo) and it is here on AO3! Please expect fortnightly updates from now on too :))
Plot Summary:
Aria Chang, a 30-year-old General Major of the USMC Force Reconnaissance and a human weapon of war, is sent to investigate the suspected chemical weapons at Target LZ. But once foundations start crumbling (literally), she is forced to fight for her life against the vampiric creatures of the underground that were out for cold blood.
In the ominous underground, she encounters Iraqi soldier Salim Othman and is compelled to make a strained alliance with him if they are to all survive the House of Ashes. After being honed to kill any enemies on sight for many years, Aria must learn to cooperate with the opposition no matter the uniform they donned.
But what happens when bonds start to form, lust begins to grow, and secrets come to the light? How will their American weapon of war deal with the lurking demons that not only creep in the shadows but those that begin to grow in her head?
Together with Eric, Rachel, Nick and Jason, they must not only face their inner demons as they enter the temple doors but also be prepared to atone for their sins if they were to escape the underground.
Fortnightly Updates: Every Sunday 2:00pm PST/ 10:00pm GMT
Chapter 15 Sneak Peek:
Aria was fidgeting in her bed, unable to keep still as her eyes kept glancing over at the ticking clock hanging on the medical bay’s wall.
Aria never fidgets. Her? The deadly assassin that can keep as still as a rock for hours at a time, is being restless for once? Unheard of.
She had called for a soldier to send Salim and Zain to see her in the medical bay. She was feeling very nervous as she was nowhere in the proper attire nor physical state for any guests to see her. She was wearing a white medical gown, with thick casts wrapped around her left arm and right leg as her bones were healing in those areas. They had also wrapped her chest in bandages as they suspected a few broken bones within her ribcage from the hard landing she suffered when falling off a cliff. They did not have any X-ray equipment at the centre, but the doctor knew for sure her arm and leg had suffered serious damage.
There were some small splashes of dried blood on her plain white gown, as they cleaned up some cuts and scratches she unknowingly suffered during the operation. The adrenaline in her at the time resulted in her body not acknowledging half of the injuries she had dealt with, but now that she was back in her calm state, Aria could not help but feel sore all over.
She remembered the following days after escaping the House of Ashes, where her body was excruciatingly sore and stiff. She had to do an embarrassing waddle to lessen the pain she felt in her muscles as she was ushered back into the interrogation room for the rest of the week, and her left ankle that she nearly sprained turned a nasty colour of purple even though it did not cause her any major discomfort when she walked on it. Though nobody knew about it as she always had her shoes on, and refused to take them off even when the CENTCOM “doctor” did a medical checkup on her in the quarantine room.
But now she was in nothing but a medical gown with stiff casts and blood-soaked bandages surrounding some of her appendages. Her left foot was bare but it was covered underneath a thin blanket. The dark mixture of bruised purple had transformed into a much lighter shade of lavender with a mixture of blue and green within the bruise. She had assured the doctor in the medical bay (who was much nicer than the CENTCOM one) that it was not causing her any discomfort, so they resorted to just occasionally putting some ointment on it to lessen the bruise.
Aria’s heart was beating steadily at a fast pace as her eyes kept darting from the clock to the entrance door. It did not help that she was in the general ward, meaning there were other injured soldiers lying next to her in separate beds so the doctors came in often to check up on them as well. Her heart would always jump through her throat anytime a person opened that door, only for it to drop in disappointment when it was just a nurse or someone else.
She did not know why she was so on-edge, especially when she had only seen Salim not too long ago. Though it was still enough time for them to digest the event that occurred underground, a small fearful part of her worried that Salim no longer cared about her. Hell, she didn't even know if he did want to come to America, but she did request for the immigration agent to make it clear to him that it was just an option he could take. And now that she was told that he had come to the camp in preparation to be brought to the US, surely he did want to go on his own violation, right? She just hoped to not catch Salim with a guarded look in his eyes once he saw her, hoping to keep his distance from a monster that wiped out almost half of the Iraqi army in cold blood.
These thoughts came looming within her mind, and they grew increasingly louder as the clock continued to tick in dense silence. The painful tension shattered into pieces and landed on Aria’s chest in agony as she saw the door slowly open and a familiar pair of brown eyes peeked into the room.
Would you write some more Salim x reader fics? His s/o is pregnant and freaking out/ has some big ups and downs and he comforts her and shows how wonderful husband and father he is (cause Mr. Othman has some experience both in marriage and pregnancy obviously) thank you loveee💗💕
Sure Woifey I'll yeet you a little fic :3
Pairing: Salim x reader
Words: ~2000
Genre: fluff
Night thoughts
Your senses came back from the blissful sleep with a sharp sting in your side. Drawing a sharp breath in, you tried to move, without making much noise, or movement, so your husband won't wake up because of you, shifting from left to right.
It was a challenge to sit up on the mattress, the soft fabric pushed your form down, while you leaned forward; your bump making it tougher to achieve the task. With a groan you grabbed the bedside, one hand coming to smooth the ache in your side, rubbing slow circles into the ache.
Your pregnancy became more and more exhausting with each day, the cramps, the soreness and tiredness never leaving your body.
"You fussy little thing…" You sighed, pushing out all the air from your lungs to fill it with freshness - deep breaths usually helped you ease the pain faster. "Why are we having this match every night?" You rubbed your eyes with a yawn, glancing back to the man's sleeping form beside you.
Salim slept on his stomach, hands hugging securely the pillow under his head. His lips were slightly open, thick lashes resting; with a deep, quiet snore Salim slept like a bear.
Your lips curved up into a sour smile. While you always adored your husband's sleeping form, with his soft and tranquil expression; deep down you were jealous of him, maybe even angry a tiny bit. He gets the whole night all for himself, sleeping, sleeping on his stomach, waking up ever so fresh in the morning without any pain or sickness meanwhile your working hours don't end, even at night.
Quietly, you slipped out of the bedroom, cautious to crack the wood under your foot as rarely as possible while you rubbed your aching waist. Maybe a little exercise will help ease the pain, you thought walking towards the bathroom.
Even if there were no pain during night hours -which was quite uncommon- your bladder never let you relax more than a few hours before you needed to rush to the toilet once again.
You wondered how long will it go like this, how worn out and completely drained will you be when the baby arrives; and if pregnancy puts you down this much, what will happen if there will be a living little human, who needs your constant attention to basically be alive.
How much Salim could help you, how much would he help you?
The flushing was zoo loud for your ears after the long lasting silence, rubbing your temple you quickly washed your hands and walked down to the kitchen.
If you cannot sleep, cannot make loud noises then you will at least have a nice cup of calming tea. Blinking hard, you navigated through the living room, careful not to kick Zain's traveling backpack with its dozens of Swiss knives, metal cups, keys and who knows what else that could awaken the household.
A fond smile creeped up on your lips on your stepson's thought. Although Zayn was already a grown up young man, studying far away from his family, he was the most excited about the new member of his family.
Fortunately you bonded with the boy swiftly, he accepted you as a caring parental figure right away, happy that his father found peace and happiness at once; and that he finally was free from Salim's never ending overprotectiveness. His watchful eyes may have fallen upon you at the moment more than on his son, but both you, and Zain knew that Salim would never make a difference between his children- newborn or already an adult.
Clicking up the switch on the electric kettle- while the water slowly boiled louder and louder, you opened the drawer in search of your mug and preferably a tea bag which won't make you nauseous.
It must have been around two a clock by the time your water was ready to be poured out; with a yawn you started to dump the tea bag into the mug; the movement felt robotic, almost absent minded - your thoughts traveled back to your round belly, almost hiding even your knees from your sight under the table.
You felt light movement inside; you watched your dump slowly shaping from a perfectly round melon to a similarly round and big melon - only this one had a small hump on your right side.
Smiling, you reached down to ghost your fingers over it, feeling it move again under your fingertips.
“I know you want to get out Sweetie, soon you will, don’t worry. Is this your little hand or your tiny foot?” You cooed softly, placing your palm over your belly. The baby didn’t stop from your hand; suddenly you felt the bump starting to push further against your palm. You wondered how it would finally feel to hold that little leg, that little hand in your palms. To hold that small and fragile body in your arms, to hear the baby cry and see the first yawn, the first sneeze.
“Isn’t it cold down here Habibii?” A faint, hoarse voice broke the silence around you. Blinking, your head tilted up, towards the entrance of the kitchen. Salim stood there, in his long pants, hair ruffled, his shoulders fell ahead. He had a tired expression on his face, lips pursed together, eyes narrow, barely open.
“I have tea to keep me warm, my love.” You assured him with a hum, holding up your mug. Pulling your leg up under the table, you pushed the chair out beside you, inviting him to sit with you.
Nodding, Salim slowly scuffled towards you, but instead of taking a seat next to you, he circled the chair, standing behind you.
Strong and warm arms slid down your form, two large palms stilling under your swollen belly, locking his finger together to hold you up. The weighing down pressure immediately left you back and waist, the warmness calming and caressing your skin as he hugged you. Sighning you let your back fall against the chair, your nape nestled into Salim’s chest.
“Better?” He asked, leaning down to plant a kiss on your head.
“Hmmm yeah.” You humm, closing your eyes. “You’re a giant heater, you know that?”
With a snicker he tightened his embrace, and the two of you stayed motionless for a few moments. Salim gently let go of you, hands never leaving your skin, your arms- rubbing and caressing you as he stood straight.
“Something’s on your mind, isn’t it?” He asked after listening to the kitchen’s clock’s ticking. “Care to share it?”
You furrowed your brows, pressing your lips together. Thinking about it, you thought — after all, it’s best to share secrets and worries in the middle of the night, under the protection of the darkness.
“I just…I was just thinking, you know.” You begin after biting your lips. You didn’t fear Salim's reaction about your problems and doubts; rather, you were afraid that they would become true after you spoke them out loud.
“About?”” He asked; you heard the wood creaking as he opened the drawer.
“I don’t know…” Shrugging, you smoothed your finger over the handle of your mug. The thoughts started to flood apwards, breaking the surface of your strictly sealed deep fears.
“What if I can’t do it?” The words slipped out, now irreversible; finally your self-doubts hit you as you heard your voice tremble, your sight getting blurry.
Silence, you hear only the puffing from your nose, when suddenly Salim took a hold of your hands, bringing them away from your mug and the table, to gently turn you to the side.
He crouched down beside you, your hands clutched in his warm pals, thumb running circles over your skin.
He looked up at you from below, with those wide, open expressions – eyes sparkling with adoration and worry, searching every little corner of your face.
"Hey…. It's okay Hayati. It's alright. Cry if you feel you need to." He mumbled softly, gazing into your eyes, touching your soul with only his look.
"But don't say, please don't say, you think you can't do it. Why wouldn't you be able to do it? You're the strongest person I know. You're so wonderful and caring."
"But what if I won't be able to bond with the baby? What if I'll have problems? What if I feel that's enough and I can't do it anymore?" You took a shaky breath, sniffing and blinking out warm tears from your eyes.
Salim brought your hands up to his face, only breaking eye contact when he slowly tilted his head down; planting tender, feather light kisses over your knuckles.
"I'm here, Habibii. I will always be here. For you, for the baby. As much as you're their mother, I am their father. I take care of them equally. When you're tired I'm there. When you feel you have had enough, I'm there."
He glimpsed back at you with a fond smile, that made your heart leap a beat.
"You won't be holding the babe's responsibility all on your shoulders." With a wink he leaned up, capturing your lips for a peck. "I'm right beside you in this."
You chuckled, feeling silly for your outburst. Rubbing your eyes, you gave him a timid smile.
"I'm so sorry for doing this in the middle of the night…." You apologised, but Salim shook his head.
"No Hayati. Don't. I know what you feel, believe me, I know. I felt the same when I waited for Zain." He explained, and with a small grunt, he took the seat beside you, turning it to your direction, until your knees were touching. Taking your hands again he entwined his fingers with yours, placing it on the wood.
"Hmm, really?" While you knew what happened in Salim's family, with Zain, his mother, Salim's siblings and parents; he never went into big lengths regarding Zain's childhood, but you know how hard the past was for them, and it's still rocky sometimes. Respecting his boundaries, you never tried to find out more, or push him to reveal details, but you were always happy to hear about his life and family – after all, now your life is linked with his, you are part of his family as he's part of yours.
Nodding his head, Salim continued.
"Really. I… Me and Zain's mother - we were very young when he came. I was not much older than he is now. Twenty-two, I felt like a capable adult and a little teenager at the same time. It scared me to have a son, a family to care for and provide… I thought that maybe it was too soon for me to become a parent." His eyes wandered to the living room, onto Zain's backpack, then to the placed out photos of him, various vacations and prizes, then a group photo with you. His family. Your family.
"I feared if I made any wrong move, I would be a bad father, that I would fail my son. That only the perfect way is the right way to raise a child, that what the "big book" said is written in stone."
When he looked back at you, you saw truth in his eyes, a tale that was played down before this - a look of someone, who was sure of his words.
"But as each star is its own, each way of raising a child is just as good as the other. You can't make wrong decisions just because it's not the way someone else wants to. Of course, we will make mistakes, we will have bad days but those don't define us. Our child will love you as you are, they will be grateful for your efforts."
You wiped down your tears from your eyes, your cheeks already dried up. Hearing your husband reassure and calm you, your heart no longer felt so heavy in your chest.
"Besides," Salim tilted his head to the side, a waggish giggle leaving his lips. "Have you seen Zain? I think we'll be more than capable of raising a little rascal."
With a snicker you flapped at his arm.
"They definitely take after you Darling." You teased.
"What can I say, the Othman family is just like that."
Salim tightened his hold around your hips, head falling back to the sofa. Still slightly dazed from the wine, you had on the party that you two had just come home, you laid back against his chest, cheeks pressing to his biceps.
It was around one in the morning, both of you were tired and sore from the all night long dancing and walking around - you’ll think twice about accepting a party invitation from your co-worker.
“We should go to bed, Love.” Salim mumbled, tilting his head down, lips pressing to your hair. You hummed, nodding absentmindedly.
“You're probably right darling, I’m gonna pass out in any minute.” With a groan you straightened up, stretching your arms upwards, then yawning you flopped back into Salim’s embrace. “But you’re so warm and cozy, I don’t wanna move now.” One hand sneaking up, you cupped his cheek in one hand; thumb running smoothing circle into the skin.
“Did you enjoy the night?” You asked, looking up at him, kissing Salim’s jaw.
“It was alright.” He shrugged, legs fiddling beneath you, as he scratched his nape. You raised an eyebrow, studying his expressions while you turned in his lap, to face him.
“Just alright?” You repeated him, curiously. He gave you a quick nod before gently taking your arms in his warm palm, moving you off of him.
“Yes, alright. Come, let’s go to bed now.” Salim gave you a tired, and faint smile, turning to walk away to your bedroom.
You stood up, silently following him, frowning, what brought up this mood switch of his; he was enjoying himself at the beginning of the party, chatting with your co-workers, snatching snacks from a table; now it seemed like he was annoyed or hurt because of something you didn’t noticed that happened… or you said.
Puzzling with your thoughts you managed to shower and get ready without another word to each other, the man doing everything as fast as he could, gaze avoiding yours.
You bit your lips in, heart aching; you truly had no idea what could have gotten into your love.
Finally tucking yourself under the soft sheets, you allowed your muscles to relax into the warmth of your shared bed, snuggling up to Salim’s side. You draw one leg over his thigh; head resting on his robust chest, arms embracing him.
After some moment, when both of your breathing slowed;, heart calming down; you tipped your head up, forehead pressing to his soft skin under his jaw.
“What’s wrong?” You asked quietly, barely a breath. Salim stiffens; arms tightening around your middle, as he took a big breath; swallowing hard.
“Nothing Habibi, really.” He tried toreasure you, voice unsure. “I’m just really tired now.”
“Are you sure, darling?” You frown, coming up to your elbows, to look at him. “Salim, I can see something is wrong. You were so relaxed during the party, something must have happened there, to be so sulky now.”
Holding up your hand, you caress his cheeks, smiling softly. “You can tell me anything. If you have something on your mind, you can always share it.” You told him, whispering.”
After a moment, Salim looked away, brows entwining, lips curving into a sour pout; in the moonlight he looked like a sad puppy.
“It’s just…” He started, voice breaking in his throat as he tried to shape his thoughts into words.” I just…got a little jealous, I suppose.” He shrugged, mouth twitching.
You shoot up a questioning look at hi;, head tilting to the side.
“Jealous for what?” You ask; genuinely confused, as you tried to remember, what did you do, or what did others do, to make him upset.
“I just need to look around you. You were so happy with your friends, chatting and laughing and all, making jokes I didn’t even understand.”
You bit the inner side of your mouth. “This is why you're upset? I just wanted to pay equal attention to everyone…”
“No, no, it is not that. You were so radiating there, in your element around those people, you knew what was going on, and I just stood there, barely understanding any of your talking. I felt so alien…among those fresh thirties .”
“Wait.” You blinked rapidly into the dark. “What alien? You seemed to get along with them so well.”
“I felt like an… old man, next to them… next to you.” Salim whispered, voice cracking with the last sentence, as he brought his arms up, to hug himself. “Old and basically looking like a potato.”
“Don’t say this, Salim!” You cut him harshly; sitting up. “Why would you think such things? It was someone? Who told you this?”
“No one, I realized myself! Just look at me, then yourself; I surely passed my good ages.”
“This is absolutely not true.” You objected, heart breaking at the idea, that your love could say and thik such things to himself. “You are not old, miles away from it, and where do you get this idea that you don’t look amazing?” You paused for a moment, heart pounding, mind racing. “You are the most handsome man I have ever seen, I adore how gentle and positive you are; your wittiness…I admire how headstrong you are, how you would give everything for your son.”
Salim sniffed, looking to the side, seemingly battling within his mind. You leaned to his face, hands framing his jaw, bringing back his attention to you.
“I should be the one telling you, how lucky I am, that you love me, how deeply I am in love with you, how beautiful I see you. And don’t you dare to come up with your body, because you're a smoking hot silver fox!”
“ So I am a silver fox!” Salim chuckled finally, placing his hands onto yours. Embarrassed, he blushed as he looked down, sheepishly. Snorting, you rolled your eyes.
“ A sexy almost-silver-fox.” You corrected yourself. Coming down to his eye level, you smirked, lips brushing over Salim’s one hand grazing over his chest. . “A very sexy one indeed.” You declared kissing him deeply. “And I will always love you Hayati.”
Muhahah here's my first HoA fic :3. There will be more to come, but now im a bit busy with my exams😅 Hope yall like it!💖💕
Pairing: Salim x Reader
Summary: Zain and you have a little present for Baba Salim
Words: 1700~
Genre: Fluff
When the doorbell rang you ran out from the kitchen to the hall, before your boyfriend could wake up, in your shared bedroom. Opening the door, the postman stood in the doorstep giving you a smile when you popped your head out.
“Good morning Ms.!” He pulled out a paper from his bad, placing it in front of you. “Your package just arrived. Here to sign, to take over it.”
You couldn’t help but to grin wide, scribbling the signature to the paper. With that the man reached for his bag again, pulling out a thick envelope for you. You have been waiting for this to arrive for weeks now, and after so many nerve wrecking moments of “who will see the letter first: you or will Salim spoil it for himself” it finally came and just into the right hands. Waving a short goodbye to the mailman you shut your door paying no attention to anything anymore, you rushed into the kitchen.
The letter was thick and heavy full of surprises for Salim.
After you and him got together you had only a brief year to get to know Zain, before he made the big step, and applied to the University of Oxford. You never saw Salim that happy and proud as he was when he found out his son finally made it to college. You knew it was a difficult story, walking on eggshell situation with Zain’s habits but he deserved a bright future, a chance to break out and make his dreams. Everyone had bad habits and it was only natural for folks in his age to rebel and be a bit wilder.
With the passing months you come to adore the boy, now understanding Salim’s pure affection and devotion for his only boy. Zain was just as sweet as his Baba, a bit sharped edged as his rebellion phase was ongoing, but he always turned to you with respect and love, as you did to him, you two had started a precious bond—not as parent and child yet, but as two person who can rely on each other and understand one another. Zain had a talent for mathematics and history, it just needed a little help and a push, which Salim constantly gave him, having his son’s back and always be there for him. You only could watch and adore them and their bond sometimes, still in disbelieve how could you manage to have a loving family like them.
It was only fair then, to return the enormous warmth and love they gave you in this short period. You didn’t lose connection with Zain after he moved to England. If it could happen, Salim became more attached to his son, calling him every day, and as you joined their conversation those phone calls became more and more longer asking everything from the boy from what he eat to breakfast to which subject he finds the most difficult and how could the two of you help out him in it from Iraq. There was a 3 hour hours shift between England and Iraq so Salim bought another clock, setting it into the British time zone, so he can always know what time is it at Zain. You went ahead discussing the class schedule with Zain for only calling him in right times.
On one occasion when Salim was out in the marked buying dinner ingredients, you called Zain for a quick, secret meeting. Your subjects were the hotels or rentable apartments near his Uni, the prices and affordable visiting sites. You made a plan to arrange a visit, maybe a week or so, for his Baba and you, to see for yourselves how Zain’s doing. He was thrilled to finally see his father again, after months of separation, to be able to embrace him again.
Keeping this secret was easy for Zain, he just needed to talk with his father as he normally did, Salim couldn’t figure out any mischief from his side. But from your side, it was a misery. You could never hold a straight face if there was a secret you kept from someone.
From that day, you were in high alert whenever something dangerously similar topic came up in your chats with Salim. If he asked did you talked to Zain thought the days, you just shrugged off the question with a quick “yes”, or “not yet, I’ll soon call him” line then went on your way hurriedly. He noticed a sudden change in your behavior, but he didn’t want to push it, questioning you why’s the oddness, he thought you have some other thing in your life to deal with, which you couldn’t share with him yet. So he was patient, careful what topic he should bring up for a conversation starter, as he tried to figure out what can cause discomfort for you.
Two weeks passed like this, you hiding from him whenever it was time to call Zain, or when he started to talk about his son, him staying so far from his family— you just tried to be as quick and plain with answering as it was possible.
You thanked God that he was asleep when the postman came, quietly sneaking back to the kitchen to cut open the envelope. Pulling out the first, largest papers from the pack you quickly ran through it, reading that everything was matching the information you gave Zain. You got two return tickets to London, one receipt from the apartment you booked for Salim and yourself and some recommendation sheets and brochures for the trips you planned during your stay in England.
Everything came, everything was on point, no mistakes or misspelling — your travel will be smooth thanks to Zain’s incredible planning. The only thing that’s left for you was to tell the news to your boyfriend.
Biting down your bottom lip, you basically leapt into the bedroom, stilling your moves when you saw the man still in his outdoors clothes lying on his stomach at the top of the sheets. Salim gathered his pillow under his arms, face turned to the side, lips slightly parted, as he puffed slightly. You stopped in the doorway for a moment, admiring the tranquilizers and his relaxed form from afar, how there were no worried wrinkles between his brows, how peaceful he looked like this. Slowly walking beside the bed you crouched down next to him, listening to his deep inhales and slow exhales. Some strands got out from his normal combed back style, ruffled, hanging down on his face. Hesitantly you raised your hand to brush back the dark strands from his face, when Salim stirred — brows frowning, he let out a groan as he pushed himself to the side.
“Morning sleepy head!” You chuckled quietly. As Salim rolled further to his back you kept your hand on his arm, caressing his skin. You draw little circles on him, slightly squeezing the flesh.
“ Hello Easal…” Salim whispered with a dazed smile, slowly blinking and looking up at you with those deep brown eyes, which could make you melt in an instant. “I just wanted to take a nap before we’re start making lunch.” He said scratching the back of his head. Smiling wild, you couldn’t held back anymore the excitement from how you hopped on the bed, tackling him down the mattress.
“Is everything alright, my dear?” Salim smiled with confusion, your odd behavior gave him a slight uneasy feeling — something happened that you act all goofy suddenly and he wasn’t sure he wanted to know what it is.
“ I - maybe have a little gift for you.” You grinned lifting the paper to his face. The man grimaced, his eyes narrowing, brows frowning as he tried to read the lines without his glasses.
“What is it?” He huffed after a few seconds reaching for his reading glasses from the bedtable. You bite your lips waiting for his reaction fidgeting with the sheets beneath you.
As his eyes ran through the lines the wrinkles disappeared and his whole face lit up in pure excitement. He straightened up, one arm reached out to grab yours as he comprehended all the information.
“Zain sent this?” He asked in disbelief, looking between the letter and you. You nodded, starting to giggle seeing him thrilled. He deserved this , and more — after what he’s been through he needed all the reassurance he’s still that man, that he thought he left after falling into that cave.
“Yes, he sent it, but open it now! This not all what he gave us.”
Salim opened further the already unsealed envelope and slid everything out into his lap. The smile that creeped upon his lips made your heart ache — beaming with joy and proudness, a gentle fondness radiating from his gaze. “These are…” He breathed covering his mouth. He looked at you, tearing up as he pulled you closer to his chest. Arms slid around you, holding you in a steady warm embrace, you nuzzled you face into Salim’s neck.
“Surprise my love” you whispered, holding back your tears, as you heard him sniff. “Now you don’t need to wait for the right time to call him, we’ll visit him.”
Salim tightened his grasp holding you and the letter as close to his heart as possible.
“Shukran lak Habiaa. Thank you.” Sighing into your skin, Salim moved his hand to your nape, keeping your still— his head moved in front of you, closing the distance between your foreheads. “How did I get this lucky to have you?”
Humming, you caressed his cheeks, running your thumb under his cheekbones. “I am the one who should be grateful to have such an amazing partner as you are. You give everything to your loved ones. Always, without any hesitation. You deserve none the less than to be adored.”
You stayed in the bed for a little while, holding one another until Salim held up his head brushing a kiss to your nose. “Shall we start packing?” He wiggled his eyebrows.
With a bright smile and you happily agreed. “Let’s not wait any longer.”
