adjective; (of a feeling, especially love) not returned or rewarded.
Pairing -Santiago Garcia x f!reader x Francisco Morales
Series Summary- Francisco was always afraid of settling down. He left Santiago to pick up the pieces after Colombia and now someone else is taking his place. Now he must cope with repairing the past without disrupting his future.
CW-18+,NSFW,MDNI, Angst, hurt/comfort, lovers to enemies to friends, friends to lovers, PTSD, mentions of addiction, therapy,canon typical violence,depression, anxiety, smut, m/m, m/m/f, eventual poly relationship, alcohol consumption,infidelity,unprotected piv,oral f receiving, oral m receiving, marriage proposal(s)
A/N- Based on this drabble, I can’t get enough of Santi and Frankie but I’ve always wanted to explore how Frankie would be the one who couldn’t commit or settle down after the events in Colombia.
Chapter summary-The boys carry out their plan and try to stay afloat.
CW-18+,MDNI, angst, mentions of abuse, ptsd,mentions of drug use, violent ideations, addiction issues,fluff,protective tf boys.
WK-3.6K
Notes- This chapter is written in the boys pov. The story will be coming to an end soon but I will continue with one shots about their lives when this is all over.
[Series Masterlist] [Main Masterlist]
Not beta read
Chapter VIII part II Keep you safe
I’ll be at your house in 5
Will: What are we talking about?
Mike
****
As Santi drives distractedly to the Miller/Morales household he thinks about all the ways he’s tried to avoid the inevitable. In the weeks following the dramatic exit of your ex, you were all he could think about. He was never one to face his emotions head on and he certainly wasn’t going to entertain this idea of them all dating you.
Just like the weather in Florida his emotions would take a drastic turn as jealousy turned into envy, watching his brothers one by one succumb to the pull that was you. Even Will, his last line of defense, couldn't resist the feeling of finally being happy. Santiago was a glutton for punishment, he had been his entire life and this situation was no different.
No amount of avoidance or distraction could keep him from thinking about you. He didn’t know where to begin. What does he say? Why can’t he call you? Why can’t he return your calls? All these unanswered questions only seek to cloud his judgment. Instead of doing the obvious like his brothers managed to do he opts for stalking?
It’s not really… in his mind, he’s just driving by your work and all your favorite lunch spots and taking the long way home to pass by your house. Of course this is all easier to him than simply picking up the phone and telling you he’s been madly in love with you since the day you met and he wanted to tell you before the other guys but since they did it first he’s been stubborn.
On one of his routine drives by your house in which he swore this time he would stop and knock on your door. The bouquet of flowers he bought placed in his passenger seat are practically laughing at him. The incentive to actually get out of the car. He rounds the last corner to your street, the late afternoon slightly blocking his view but not enough to see the eye sore of a truck parked just a few houses down from yours.
A myriad of emotions flash across his mind…anger,frustration,annoyance. He’s white knuckling the steering wheel, cursing himself for thinking you may have taken him back. The irreparable damage this would do to all of you and of course he had seen it coming a mile away.
Except…you aren’t home, the tell tale sign of your Jeep not in the driveway because for some reason you refused to use the garage. He knows you always loved the natural light that spilled into your living room from the front window and Frankie constantly reminding you to turn on your porch light when you get home. The blinds are closed and the light is off.
He creeps by slowly passing your house as he pulls alongside the truck to see that asshole in the front seat staring down at his phone illuminating the light on his smug face. What the fuck is he doing sitting outside your house?
He wants to confront him, he should confront him and scare the shit out of him for even being within 50 feet of your house. All the things he should do and all the things he would’ve done in the past somehow overtake him. Instead in an uncharacteristic way he continues driving. The fool doesn’t even notice him. Some part of Santiago knows he’s not stupid enough to hang around too long.
He’s probably doing the same exact thing that landed him in your street in the first place. He should call you and tell you that your crazy ex is parked outside your house…but how would he even begin to explain why he knows that?
Instead he drives home and stews, pacing his living room until he’s sure a permanent track will be etched into the ugly brown carpet. The only thing that snaps him from the monotony is the sound of his phone off in the distance. He brakes from the track to take the few short steps to his kitchen when he sees your face light up on his phone screen. A picture you took of yourself with his phone because you couldn’t believe he didn’t have pictures assigned to contacts. He thought it was stupid to go through all that…he knows what the people look like that call him. Now he is so grateful to see your face when you call.
The sweet moment is quickly broken when he doesn’t even have time to say hi. Your panicked voice rushed out on the other end. Something about Mike being at the bar and you think maybe following you home. Shit… he’s telling you to stay where you are, he’ll come get you. He has to after all since this is all his fault. He should’ve confronted him, scared him a little or at least told you to be careful. His own stubborn reasons for not doing so surely put you in danger from this psychopath who can’t take no for an answer.
He should’ve told you when he picked you up or maybe even when you were in his bed. There were more important things to be said in that moment and none of it matters now…because Mike is a dead man.
****
“Nice to see you too.” Will greets him at the door as Santi barrels into the house to sit at the dining room table.
“We need to take him out.” Frankie sits beside him at the table. He tries to make eye contact with him but the man is all wild and frazzled.
“Who?”
Santi looks up, finally staring directly at Ben, a permanent smile etched on his face because he knows exactly who.
“The man finally gets laid and he wants to go on a killing spree.” He flips off the younger Miller as he huffs out in frustration
“Not a spree, just one man.” He grits out between his teeth. He doesn’t know why he’s so annoyed at the situation. It’s not their fault…maybe a small fraction of him thinks it’s all their fault for not getting their shit together sooner and realizing what they wanted was right in front of them.
He takes a deep breath to compose himself and his thoughts. He tells them everything, all of the messy details. Starting with the fact that he’s been in love with you since the day you walked into all their lives. He tells them about the days he’s been checking on you “stalking” Ben points out but continues nonetheless. He tells them about seeing him sitting in his car down the street from your house and not doing anything about it. He fights down the bile threatening to rise up in his throat at the thought of something happening to you because he didn’t step in.
He doesn’t feel guilty about last night but he can see from an outsider viewpoint that it may have looked like he took advantage of a vulnerable person. They don’t judge him for it. They have all had some questionable moments with you in the weeks after you broke up with your piece of shit excuse for a human being ex.
It’s quiet for a while once he’s finished talking. All the men just taking in the information and processing it in their own way. Will disappears to his room for a moment and Frankie just shoots him a look of sympathy. He put all his cards out there and it probably sounds insane. They have so much blood on their hands, what’s one more person? It’s just not that simple. They’ve all left that life behind,the life of killing and not looking back. Since Tom's death things were different, so many innocent lives lost and not enough money to wash away their sins.
Will returns a brief moment later with a manila envelope in his hands. He slaps it down on the table in front of Santiago who has his hands buried in his salt and pepper curls.
“I’m in.” Santi looks down at the envelope as he slowly opens it revealing its contents.
“Iron head you're supposed to be the voice of reason.” Frankie leans in trying to read the details as Santi’s face turns even more into a frown if that was possible.
Apparently Will had spent the last several weeks looking up any and all information he could find on your ex. His dodgy past with substance abuse and not being able to keep a job was boring useless information. The fact that he had an ex wife that you never mentioned who just so happens to have an active restraining order against him was not surprising either. His missing ex girlfriend was what made Will dig deeper.
He can see the moment Santiago gets to that piece of pertinent information. The multiple domestic abuse reports that fell on deaf ears because law enforcement either doesn’t care or they never had enough information to put him away. The investigation took place in a completely different state and ultimately went nowhere when they didn’t have sufficient evidence to place the blame on him.
He moved to Florida when her family wouldn’t stop “harassing” him. A fresh start in a new city, with an unsuspecting new victim.
They’ve made people disappear for much less and he can only assume the worst about the poor missing girl. People like him didn’t deserve due process.
“Did you verify all this information?” Will just levels Santi with a stare.
“You know Will, he double and triple checks everything.” Ben may be his annoying little brother but he always had his back.
“When were you going to tell me?”
It’s awkward and quiet for a bear as they all look at each other. Santi knows the answer, he just doesn’t voice it out loud. He wasn’t going to tell him. He’s spent the last several weeks saying how he doesn’t want to be involved and he doesn’t think this will work so why would they include him in this new revelation.
“Look man, I didn’t even know what I was gonna do with this information.” He sighs as he scrubs his face with his hand. “I didn’t want to tell Honey and freak her out,I couldn’t tell Ben for obvious reasons.”
“Hey I’m not that rash.” Anymore.
Frankie grabs the papers, skimming the rest of them over, his anger and frustration has reached a fever pitch and he can’t hold back anymore. “I’m done sitting around doing nothing. I know you have a plan so just lay it out.”
****
From this moment forward you have to be kept in the dark, at least until it all blows over. They’ll spend the next week making sure their alibis are air tight. They had a lot of people who owed them favors and they were about to cash in on them.
Years ago the six of you went in on a safe house that went mostly unused except for the occasional restock of clothing and supplies. That would be their home for the next few weeks after Mike has his accident.
Santiago had warned him that last night how easily they could make it look like he disappeared. With everything they now knew about him it was going to look that much easier. He owed a lot of people money, various gambling debts around town and his constant need to get high. Or perhaps someone from his ex’s family decided he needed to pay. They were going to make sure he did and couldn’t harm anyone in the future, most importantly you.
Will and Frankie got to work on their alibis and preparing the house for their departure. Ben went scouting all of Mike's normal hangouts to get an idea of his routine. Santiago ordered surveillance to be set up at your house and the Millers so they could keep an eye on you and watch for any suspicious activity.
The plan was full proof, as was everything else they set out to do. Four delta force soldiers against one sap was going to be child’s play. Their main concern was keeping you in the dark, especially after Santiago slept with you. There was no doubt your mental health was going to take a hit but they couldn’t risk you being involved in any way.
****
5 days
“Hurry up!”
“I’m going as fast as I can paint. It can only dry so fast Fish.” Will puts the finishing touches on the drywall he promised you he’d finish.
“She’s still at work anyway.” Ben’s mouth is full of lasagna and he can barely get the words out as he eats straight out of the dish you left in the fridge.
Santiago shoots him a dirty look as he secures the last camera pointing towards your living room. Ben idly flipping through the tracker app in his phone that they placed in your Jeep a few days prior. They still had about an hour before you were set to leave work but they didn’t want to risk running into you, sabotaging the whole plan.
This was the last step before heading to the safe house a few hours outside of town. Mike had been disposed of rather easily, their original plan to have him get in a “car accident” went completely out the window when Will tracked down his old booky. You don’t get second chances when you owe someone one hundred thousand dollars…especially when you’ve been dodging them for three years.
The boys still wanted confirmation, which meant they would still need to lay low for a bit. At least until the cops questioned you, which they assumed would be one of the first places they asked. It would take a few days for his job to alert someone that he stopped showing up and then if anyone cared about him at all they would report him missing. The first place they always go is a current or recent partner.
It needed to look genuine that you had no idea of his whereabouts.
Frankie is jotting down the information to log into the surveillance on a pink post it he found in a drawer. He scoffs at the ridiculous password encryption Santiago chose.
“Can you make this password any longer?”
“Ya I can. Do you think it should be longer?” Pope’s so preoccupied he doesn’t hear the sarcasm that was dripping from Frankie’s question.
“Fuck…we need to go now!” Ben scrambles to put the food away, almost dropping the whole tray in the process. “Her car says it’s at our house.”
Santi jumps down from the counter as Will heads to the garage to put the paint supplies away. Frankie’s looking over the room but at this point it doesn’t matter, they don’t have time to clean up their mess and you were gonna know they stopped by either way. This was their plan after all to make sure you knew they were safe and they still care about you.
The boys pile out of your house as Frankie locks up, making sure your porch light is on.
****
“She’s waving at the camera.” Ben smiles at his phone as he watches you safe and comfortable in your living room. “Hi Honey.” He waves back as Santi peers over from the seat next to him.
“She can’t see you dipshit.”
“I know that asshole.” He shoves his arm as he leans against the window in the backseat of Frankie’s truck.
It’s going to be a few hours before they’re at the house and it’s going to be a long week if they keep at each other's throats like this. Ben has always been the more sensitive one so they all know to keep a close eye on him. Santi had agreed to let him be in charge of watching your whereabouts to help ease some of the pain. He’s starting to regret that now that the younger Miller is obsessively checking in on you and they’ve barely left town.
Santiago’s phone buzzes in his pocket, he pulls it out quickly as the soft light illuminates the inside of the car. Frankie looks in his rear view as he sees Santi chuckle to himself.
“Everything okay hermano?” Frankie says in a hushed tone.
“Sí, I just got an email notification to reset the password for the surveillance.”
Ben flips him off with a wide grin on his face as he resumes his obsession with watching you. “That was from Honey, in case you were wondering.”
“I’m switching seats with Will when we stop for gas.”
****
7 days
The four of them haven’t spent this much time together… isolated since Colombia. That ended well. The house was in a remote enough location that they were able to spend time outside without being seen. There’s not enough fresh air in the world to quell the storm brewing amongst the men.
Anxious and restless nights at the reemergence of feeling like they're on a mission. You’re not there to comfort them or talk them off a ledge when they wake up in a cold sweat after a nightmare. The sweet soothing sound of your voice would usually be enough to stave those thoughts for weeks or months.
Frankie hasn’t felt this close to using in a long time. Where would he even get drugs anyway? Just the thought of it has his blood run cold.
Ben has bags under his eyes from staying up and watching the surveillance for any signs of trouble, any signs that you’re in danger. At least that’s what he tells his brother when he asks if he’s been sleeping.
Santiago’s maladaptive daydreaming is the only way he’s coping. In his mind you’re all on a beach somewhere exotic, relaxing in the sun and enjoying fruity cocktails that he no doubt told you he didn’t enjoy but secretly he loved them. You were going to spend the rest of your life traveling and pursuing your real dreams with the money they went to get back in Colombia…the money you didn’t have.
Will works on the house. It’s the only thing he can think of doing to keep his mind occupied. He fixes the shutters that were damaged in the last hurricane, he quiets the hinge on the back door that makes his hair stand on end when someone goes in and out. He stains the wood on the floor length mirror in your room that came with the house. He remembers the look on your face when he first showed it to you. He would give anything to see your face right now.
*ping*
DF4L
Honey🍯: Hey
Fuck
He steps out into the living room at the same time as Santi and Frankie. All their eyes scanning the open layout for any sign…
“Where’s Ben?” Santi takes in Frankie’s frazzled state but he doesn’t have time to deal with him right now.
“I don’t know, he was in his room last time I checked.” Frankie says nothing as he fidgets with the phone in his right pocket.
Will heads to the opposite hall to check his room and Santi heads to the front to search for him outside. Frankie waits a moment then heads to the back patio. He can see the tall blonde staring out into the open woods. He approaches him slowly afraid he might startle him with any sudden movements.
*ping*
Honey🍯: I don’t know what’s going on but if you’re having second thoughts about all this just please let me know.
He notices his slight movement as he stares down at the phone. His finger hovers over the call button but he knows he can’t risk that. A simple text back wouldn’t hurt.
“Don’t do it Ben.” Frankie’s hand reaches out to steady on Ben’s shoulder. He can feel him trembling beneath his touch. He steps up a little closer as he trails his hand down his arm, pressing his chest to the back of him. He drops his head down taking in a shuddering breath as Frankie gently takes the phone from him.
They stay there awhile just holding each other as the two other men look on from the back patio.
****
“I’m already pushing it with four bouquets, I’m not leaving a note too.” Santiago’s not sure who caved first but both Will and Frankie had pleaded with him to leave some sign of life so you didn’t have a complete meltdown. Ben hasn’t said a word to any of them since your text went unanswered.
“Just write something short pendejo.” Frankie is watching your location closely as he talks to Santi on speaker phone.
He knew where you were headed as soon as you left the house. The place where you always went to think or grieve. He was hoping it wasn’t the latter. The sun was just beginning to set now which meant you’d probably be leaving the beach soon. That still gave Santi plenty of time to leave a “short” note along with the bouquets he picked out since they all couldn’t decide on one to share.
Ironically the only thing they’ve managed to share peacefully in the last several years was you.
“Pinche cabrón, wants me to write a note.” He reaches for the pink post it on your counter. Santiago is usually great with words but right now the words he wants to say…he wants to tell you in person.
****
Santiago can breathe a small sigh of relief as he drives the gravel path up to the safe house. This would all be for nought if you started to doubt their affections for you.
His reprieve is short lived as he enters the home to see the other three men crouched over a small laptop on the wooden dining table.
“The cops are there.” Will speaks matter of factly as he keeps his eyes glued to the screen.
Pairing-Joel Miller x f!reader x Francisco Morales
Chapter Summary-Cain makes an appearance while you and Joel reflect on your past and future.
CW-18+, MDNI,NSFW, fluff,angst, mentions of alcohol,mentions of ptsd,brief mention of abuse(not to reader),protective Joel,protective Frankie,talk of death,illusions to smut,comfort.
WK-4.4k
Character link
A/N- Thanks for being patient with me life has been crazy. I love a flashback scene. This chapter sets up the climax for the story as we meet our beloved villain and dive deeper into Joel’s past.
[Series Masterlist][Main Masterlist]
Not beta read
Moonshine chapter V- White lightning
Joel wakes before the both of you, watching you sleep as Frankie has you wrapped up so tight. His face buried in your hair taking you all in even when he’s not conscious.
There’s a faint smile on his lips and Joel wonders what he could be dreaming about. It’s a comforting sight compared to the nightmares that used to plague him.
Something stirs deep within,a feeling he can’t quite put his finger on but he knows he shouldn’t chase it too far down a dark path. You were both here,right in front of him -safe. He had nothing to worry about and yet it felt like if he didn’t do something to protect you it would all come crashing down.
He fights those feelings threatening to eat away at the calm sounds of your sleepy humms and Frankie’s light snores.
It’s too tempting to want to wake both of you, he’s desperate these days now that he’s had you both,the intensity of your love only heightened now by Frankie’s presence. The thin sheet is draped lightly over your soft form, Frankie’s arm covering the parts of you that are exposed.
He mouths at your shoulder planting light kisses along your arm, his hands wander beneath the sheet caressing your soft stomach. Your body chases his even in sleep as you roll your hips back into his. You whimper at the feel of his hardened length pressing into the swell of your ass.
It would be so easy to slip in, you’re always so wet and ready for him first thing in the morning. You never resisted him, it was a craving to watch you wake up to the feel of him buried deep inside you, your soft moans and whimpers of his name as your first waking thought is you coming hard on his cock as he whispers sweet good mornings in your ear.
The image is so clear in his mind he almost doesn’t feel Frankies large calloused hand brush against him. Frankie grips your ass in his sleep pulling you towards him as he mumbles something incoherent. The man is greedy. He can’t blame him though.
He lets out a tuft of air as he stares up to the ceiling. It’s all so funny now knowing how worried you were just a few weeks ago about your advances not being reciprocated,and yet here he finds himself fighting with a sleeping giant for another moment with you. You did manage to get your hooks in him after all.
Like most mornings now, he can’t seem to leave the comfort of you in this bed so he slinks down further into the covers and further into the depths of whatever this is forming between the three of you.
****
You’ll never get used to the feeling of waking up with two large bodies caging you in. Frankie nestled in the crook of your neck with his arm draped across you instinctively pulling Joel flush against your back.
Joel’s head resting on the pillow above you as his left hand rests comfortably in the valley of your breast. You stir a little and you can hear Joel’s grunts of protest at breaking the morning haze. Although it does seem like Joel sleeps in later and later these days.
Instinctively you can tell when he’s actually awake, his hands dig in deeper as his chest rises and fall a little faster than before. That feeling of being watched by him is something you’ve grown to now very well. He often tried not to take his eyes off you for too long when you were near, as if he thought you might evaporate into thin air.
You can hear his thoughts churning behind you as you try to play sleep, just to hold onto this moment a little longer. He tries to quietly clear the sleep from his throat, no longer able to keep his racing thoughts at bay.
“Cains been making his way towards us.” He speaks into your hair slightly muffled.
You don’t say anything but you know what that means. He always gets nervous and possessive at any mention of him. A knot forming in your chest because you know trouble always followed that man.
You rub his arm as he plants a soft kiss to your shoulder before sliding out of bed. You miss his warm presence behind you as Frankie unconsciously pulls you further into him.
“Who’s Cain?” His sleepy voice registers barely above a whisper. He stirs slightly as you trace lines down his back leaving goosebumps in your wake.
“Go back to sleep Frankie.” He begins muttering something about you ‘humming in your sleep’ and then you can hear his soft snores and the steady rise and fall of his chest as sleep begins to claim him again.
Your mind drifting to thoughts of your first meeting with the man they call Cain.
****
It was a crisp autumn day, the weeks you’ve spent getting to know Joel and Charity working at the bar had been some of the happiest days in recent memory. She was so thrilled to teach you and also have someone to confide in for the first time in a very long time.
She reminded you so much of your sister it pained you to think about. Joel did his best trying to find out what happened to her when you got separated even though you both knew. You sensed there was some other form of determination behind helping you but you didn’t want to pry.
The grief bonded you to him while he mourned the loss of Tommy, even though you never met him you knew what an impact he must have had on Joel. He often referred to him as the level headed one, that peeked your interest because Joel was nothing(to you) if not level headed.
That day at the bar had started off like any other. It was getting busier since word got out that you could make a ‘pretty decent drink’ in Joel’s words. A few familiar faces had made their way in and a few unfamiliar ones. Joel trusted the two of you to run things when he had business to tend to around town.
Charity has been keeping busy, you could sense her nervous energy as she stole glances at a man sitting at the end of the bar. He was handsome and older. Not much older than Joel. He was polite and seemed to enjoy your drinks, seeing as this was his second round.
“Sweetheart I’ll have another.” He gestures to you with a wave of his fingers and a devilish grin on his face.
This man definitely knew what he was doing, you wondered what brought him in here or why he was constantly glancing around almost studying the place. He ordered a whiskey neat and insisted on the good stuff, you raised your brows at him but he silenced you with a simple look of ‘Im good for it’.
As you slid the drink to him he caught your hand in his, he rubs his calloused thumb across your fingers before placing a kiss to them. Bold moves from a stranger but there’s something about him that doesn’t have you shy away. From across the room Charity is frozen to the spot,seemingly forgetting whatever task she wanted to accomplish and you’re none the wiser as this handsome gentleman has some magic hold on you.
“You’re new here.” He states matter of fact as though he’s got you all figured out from one glance.
“Yes, I’ve been here a few weeks.” You hate how shy you suddenly sound under this spell he’s got you in.
“Names Cain, it’s a pleasure to meet you?” You give him your name and he repeats it back to you in his low sultry tone. “Pretty name for a pretty face.”
You try to disguise the smile as you duck your head in embarrassment. Joel had noticed your discomfort at flattery and had since made it his mission to tell you how beautiful you were everyday. It wasn’t something you often came across as you fought for your life on a day to day basis for so long. Men mostly assumed they could take what they wanted and there certainly were no compliments involved if you ever found yourself in that situation.
“Well I’ll be damned, the lady has a beautiful smile as well.” There was no hiding the flustered state he had you in at his forwardness and it was safe to assume you were in way over your head with him.
“Speaking of new, I can’t say I’ve seen you in here before.” You took a step back from the bar hoping to break yourself free from whatever was happening between the two of you.
He scrubs his stubble on his jaw as he chuckles under his breath. “Sweetheart this isn’t my first time here.” The front door swings open and your heart skips a beat. Joel’s broad frame casting a shadow on the floor as he blocks the remaining evening sun. You meet his eyes with a soft smile but he’s staring daggers at the charming,handsome man that has captivated your time for who knows how long. The other patrons long forgotten as he so easily sucked you into his web.
Joel stalks over to the bar with determination, his eyes nearly black with rage as he pulls up a seat next to Cain. You glance around the bar unsure of when Charity disappeared but you’re suddenly feeling like you’ve made some grave mistake in even entertaining this man.
“What the fuck are you doin’ in my bar?”
“It’s nice to see you too Joel.” Cain sloshes around the remaining amber liquid in his glass before taking it all down. “This drink is pretty nice too.”
“I asked you a question.” He smirks at Joel no doubt taking every opportunity to get under his skin and it’s definitely working.
“It seems you steal all the pretty girls to work at your bar.” As Joel leans in closer to him all you can hear is the pounding of your heart in your ears. A few people sensing the tension have left their ration cards on the bar. You want to move your feet and get as far away from this conversation as you can but you’re planted to the spot.
“What do you want Cain!” Joel’s booming voice echoed through the now empty bar as both men stand face to face.
“Just wanted to check up on my old business partner,but I can see you’re still bent out of shape about Tommy so I better go.” A mixture of pain and anger washes over Joel’s face as Cain brushes past him to exit.
“Thanks for the drink sweetheart,come visit my bar when you get sick of this old man.” The sinister look he gives him sends chills down your spine as he swings open the heavy wooden door stepping out into the night light.
Joel rounds the bar quickly pulling you into his broad frame, his grip is almost painful as he tries to calm his breathing. You know whatever he’s going through words won’t fix but you tell him it’s okay anyways as you rub your hands along his back steadily trying to ground him. He’s like a wounded animal the way he looks at you with red tear stained eyes. You don’t know what Cain did to him but it’s a look you never want to see on Joel’s face again.
“Did he touch you? Or say anything to you?” He’s looking you over as you bite your bottom lip wondering how much you should tell him. Yes this strange man was flirting with me and I wasn’t doing much to stop him, that response probably wouldn’t go over well and it seems he’s frustrated with how long it’s taking you to respond.
“Don’t lie to me.”
“He asked me for my name and he kissed my hand, he didn’t tell me anything else I swear.” You’re trembling now, unable to look into his eyes,afraid to see any disappointment in them.
“She’s telling the truth Joel.” Charity appears behind him, her face stained with fresh tears as she looks up at him like she’s done something wrong. “I’m sorry I left her alone I just couldn’t…”
“Don’t apologize, hon' it’s alright.” Joel has softened slightly at the site of her in distress. You shouldn’t be annoyed with the situation but so much has gone unsaid and you’re feeling so left out. Joel turns to you then finally calmed down and worry written all over his face because of course you have no idea what’s going on.
“Shine…he can’t be trusted, I can’t tell you everything now but just promise me you’ll never get close to him. If you see him out there or in here just know he’s evil and so are his intentions.”
All you can manage is a nod as grabs Charity's hand and pulls you both into his arms.
“You’re mine okay…and I won’t let anything happen to you…I can’t let anything happen to anyone else.”
*****
It started out like such a beautiful day, the sky was clear and the weather uncharacteristically warm. These days always make you nervous, much like the day of the outbreak. That was a beautiful day too. Beneath this idyllic facade a storm was brewing. You could feel it in your bones from the moment Joel mentioned his name.
You did your best to smile through it as you worked but Frankie knew something was off. It’s almost as if everyone was on edge. The bar felt heavy with invisible ominous clouds as you all mostly worked without speaking to each other.
Joel never left his office.
The peaceful morning was crushed by his thoughts.It was one of those moments where fear worked its way into your bones until it was all you could think about.Frankie could see the tension in your body, an all too familiar feeling for him and the others.
Some part of him still hadn’t made that last step, to put the final piece of his new life together. All he had to do was say those words, but until he did it seemed he didn’t feel worthy enough to comfort you in public. He wanted to let everyone know that you and Joel were his but something kept holding him back. He wants to shut off that nagging part of his brain that tells him he doesn’t deserve love. Maybe he should start taking his own advice and believe things that he tells Joel late at night when the lights are out and the only thing shining through is the moon.
Winding down for the night usually brought some form of excitement for him because he knew he was that much closer to being ‘home’. Tonight most certainly felt different.
With the last patron long gone he can see you and Charity leaning into the bar having a hushed conversation. You chance a glance back at him as your smile barely reaches your eyes.
The door opens wide bringing the moonlight in and a man in a crisp black suit enters.
Speak of the devil and he shall appear.
“Sir we’re closed for the night.” Benny politely offers as the man walks past him without a second glance.
“You should turn off the open sign.” Benny looks at you apologetically thinking he’s just let a regular customer in but your eyes tell a different story.
Frankie can feel the shift in the room, your conversation with Charity long forgotten as you’ve both stopped talking to stare at this man. He flashes Frankie a wide tooth smile that has his stomach churning.
He sits on the stool next to Charity and pulls her seat closer, the noise dragging along the floor sending chills down your spine. She doesn’t move, only looks to you momentarily, a sudden desperation in her eyes.
“I’ll have a-“
“I’m not serving drinks.” You cut him off as you lean back crossing your arms. A version of you long ago would’ve backed down to the man but he didn’t scare you anymore.
“A bar that doesn’t serve drinks.” The sarcasm drips from his voice as he turns around to survey the room.
“What do you want, Cain?” Your tone is stern and unwavering as you toss the bar towel you were using into the sink.
Frankie stiffens at the name, his hair on the back of his neck stands up as he notices Santi making his way over the bar, like a lion eyeing his prey. Santi and Will were all too familiar with the man in question having heard much from Joel.
“You know I always have to pay you a visit when you cause a commotion.”
“What commotion?”
“Joel's lackeys arrived in town and it’s got people buzzing!” Gesturing around the room all the men freeze in their movements.
(His)men were lackeys…these men were elite trained special ops soldiers. But he didn’t need to know any of that. Based on his comment he obviously knew nothing. You know he’s just sniffing you out trying to get information.
He licks his lips as he turns his body to Charity and brushes her hair behind her ears. “You can always come back and work for me sweetheart, I’m sure you’ve missed me.”
“Kindly fuck off Cain.” She swats his hand away and stands from her seat.
“Oohhh just as spicy as the day we met.”
Santi’s chomping at the bit but Frankie shoots him a look to back off. You’re not sure when Benny moved from the door to the opposite side of the bar but Will is slowly making his way over to potentially diffuse any situation or maybe something worse.
Cain leans against the bar with a sickening sweet smile as he props his head on his hands.
“The offer still stands for you too sweetheart.”
You don’t have to look to know Frankie’s inched closer to you, his presence is looming as he waits for him to make one wrong move.
“No thanks Cain, I'm very happy here.” His maniacal laugh sends chills down your spine.
“How would you know you’re happy unless you give some other lap a try.”
It all happens in a flash as Benny lunges for him his brother grabs at the back of his shirt, Charity manages to block Santiago but Frankie already has him face down on the bar with his hand pressed to the back of his neck.
A loud whistle from the hallway door has everyone freeze in their movements. Joel stalks toward the bar, the only sound over your beating heart is the lumbering stomp of his boots as he comes up behind him.
Frankie hasn’t let off his neck but the rest of the men have all backed off. Charities trying to get Santi to look in her eyes but he’s laser focused on the scene unfolding. Cain's evil laughter is only spurring him on as he’s still pinned to the bar.
“Frankie.” Joel’s voice is soft for his lover trying to coax him to let Cain go. His eyes are black with rage and he’s way past talking. The boys know all too well when they get like this it’s hard to snap out of it.
“Francisco.” His voice is deeper now as he places a hand on his wrist gently prying it off him.
Frankie backs away suddenly as though he’s been stung, his chest is heaving and you step in front of him rubbing your hands along his arms trying desperately to ground him.
He finally looks at you and the pain is evident in his deep brown eyes. You lean up and kiss him on the cheek to silently convey that you’re okay.
Cain straightens up and pulls roughly on his suit as he comes face to face with Joel. It seemed he had a permanent snicker on his face and it took everything for Joel not to slit his throat right now and have them help him hide the body.
He didn’t want blood shed in his bar and he definitely didn’t want people asking questions.
“So it looks like you finally learned how to share.” He tilts his chin toward you and Frankie embracing and you know if it weren’t for your deathly grip on him he would lunge for him again.
“Unless you have business with me personally, we’re closed for the night.”
“Remember we don’t do business personally anymore. I just wanted to stop by.” He holds his hand out for Joel to shake but he just crosses his arms across his broad chest.
“Sorry to hear your last run didn’t go so well.”
“Don’t know where you heard that.” Joel grits out through clenched teeth.
“Pretending to be mother Theresa won’t erase all the shit you’ve done.” He laughs and pats the bar top as he slowly walks backwards. “See you soon Moonshine.” Your blood runs cold as he winks at you before exiting the bar.
Joel looks at you with that same look in his eyes he had all those years ago when you first met Cain, but now there’s another set of eyes on you with that same look.
****
There were no more words said amongst you all as you finished up for the night. Just Joel’s hurried ‘be ready to leave in 5’ as he bounded back to his office and slammed the door shut.
You walk home in silence…even though you walk ahead, both men are on your heels. The sight of them hand in hand loosens something deep in your chest. Neither of them have to feel alone about their past and how they may have handled things. They both told you on separate occasions how they don’t like letting their temper get the best of them. Their similarities were so eerie sometimes.
The hurried atmosphere of your walk only stirs them on when you finally enter your home. You can feel the humid air in the room as you look at both men. A possessiveness in their eyes that should have you running in the other direction.
You know they need to forget,even momentarily about what happened tonight. The urgency to undress you,to claim you as you barely make it to the bedroom.
It’s euphoric the way they make you feel, you don’t have to open your eyes anymore to know who’s touching you where or who’s biting and gripping you so tight they’ll leave bruises.
They do make you open your eyes though because they ‘want to see your pretty face when you come.’ They got off on it,needing it for their own release. You’ve lost count on how many times they’ve brought you to the edge and tipped you over.
You’re mine is growled in your ear as you’re filled from both ends. It’s space you’re suspended in as you wrap your arms around and cling to whoever is shushing you telling you it’s okay. You’re ours
****
It’s quiet now
Their minds are finally at rest as they watch you sleep. Frankie doesn’t know how long they’ve been laying here in silence but sooner or later one of them has to break it.
“I’m sorry about losing my temper.”
“Don’t...don't ever apologize for protectin’ her.” He doesn’t mean it to come out as harsh as it does.
They both look down at you to make sure you’re still asleep. You burrow into the pillow as you humm softly. You’re so angelic at peace and they wonder what they did in all their fucked up lives to deserve someone like you.
Joel kisses him slow and deliberate, his passion always caught Frankie off guard. How this rugged man could make him feel so many things with just a kiss.
He pulls away momentarily, the words he’s wanted to ask all night lingering in the air. “Tell me about Cain...please.” Joel shuts his eyes as he lets out a puff of air onto his lips.
It’s brief and also painstakingly slow at the same time as he waits for him to respond. Joel leans back against the headboard with his eyes still shut. It might be easier to tell it this way, or maybe he can better see what went wrong as he replays it in his head.
“We used to be partners…when I came here with Tommy I didn’t know shit. Cain took us under his wing so to speak. We did some horrible things to get to the top.”
Frankie knows how that feels, to do and see the most unspeakable things in the name of survival. It only starts to eat away at you when you’re no longer doing it to survive.
“I knew he was with Charity, but when I saw the bruises…” He stops for a moment to collect his thoughts. “She just reminded me so much of Sarah it sort of made me snap.”
Frankie listens as he tells him how they were going to run both bars together, each on the opposite side of town. If they pooled their resources it would only seek to benefit them all.Cain got greedy and Joel wanted out of the business of hurting people.
He offered Charity an out and she accepted but he couldn’t tell Tommy what to do.
Tommy died on a run with Cain after they decided to part ways. He still doesn’t know all the details about how the clickers managed to get to him only.
“I know he killed my brother. I just can’t prove it.” The moonlight illuminates the glossy look in his eyes with so many words unspoken. “I heard he’s running out of resources so I knew it was only a matter of time before he came lurking.”
Here it is again the comfortable silence he often finds himself in nowadays. He doesn’t know what to say.
Frankie hates the word sorry. Hearing I’m sorry doesn’t heal the wounds...There’s other ways to convey how he feels.
He doesn’t hesitate as he leans in capturing his lips. Any dark thoughts brought to the surface are pushed to the back as Frankie conveys with his actions everything he can’t say out loud.
challenge -> you’re starring in a movie with the last person you saved in your camera roll and the last song you listened to is the title
This movie definitely has some dark themes. Your ex that you only call when you need something. When your current boyfriend gets you involvevdd in his gambling debt he makes some calls to take care of it for you.
Francisco was always afraid of settling down. He left Santiago to pick up the pieces after Colombia and now someone else is taking his place. Now he must cope with repairing the past without disrupting his future.
Unrequited -Santiago Garcia x f!reader x Frankie Morales
After a tumultuous year-long friends-with-benefits relationship with Santiago, you decide you’ve had enough of the uncertainty and lack of commitment. Seeking stability and genuine affection, you meet Joel Miller and he’ll make it his mission to show you what love is supposed to feel like.
Someone like you - Ex-Fwb Santiago Garcia x ofc, Joel Miller x ofc
One shots
Por la mañana -Santiago Garcia x f!reader
Drabbles
Please stay - Santiago Garcia x f!reader x Frankie Morales
Summary: Reader has a bad day. needs to get away. Benny and Santiago has to find her.
Warning: mentions panic attack. the boys being their sweet and protective selves.
Note: i was a wee bit bored. needed to do something relaxing.
Feel like no matter what you see or do makes you want to bail. Go somewhere to let out your frustrations. That is what you did. Went to change into something comfortable. Then tell a few coworkers that you were going to leave for the rest of the day. Destination your favorite place.
It was midafternoon when Benny came by to see his love. Went to her office,and to see her backpack,and her baseball cap gone. Strangely that she didn't tell him that she was leaving early.starting to get worried. Benny finds one of the nurses to see if they have seen you. One of them told him she said she was having a bad day,and needed to leave. In a panic. He calls Santi to see if you called him. Sadly, you didn't. You always call them if something is wrong. Santi told Benny to stay where he is.Soon as santi arrives. They asked your coworkers what caused you to bail. Then one of the nurses said that there was nasty trauma. That scared you so bad. The other nurse said it brought back memories from her time in the Army. Santi and Benny knew it was. Now they need to find you so they can comfort you.
Meanwhile. You arrived at your favorite park. Was so quiet. Nestled on a quiet part of town. Had a nice basketball court. How you love to come here. To let out your frustrations. Feel a bit guilty about telling your boys,even Benny, that you left. You were not thinking straight! If they found what you did. Would result in a huge lecture.
Benny and Santi went home to think. Figure out where you went. Both went round the house looking for clues. Santi looked on his phone to see the security feeds to see if you came home. Sure enough you did. Got a close up to see you had your basketball under your arm. That is one clue. Since Benny knows you far better than he does. He knows where you are at. Yanks santi by the arm,"Pope I know where she is! Remember that old park she told us about? Where she goes so she could think. I know she is there." Both of them get into the truck to find you.
You started to feel better. After slam dunking the ball multiple times. Sitting on the bench so you can cool off. Then you see a red truck pulling up. With a fighter logo on the window. Yep! Your boys found you. Both of them ran into each other! Benny was the first one to reach you," oh honey bee! Why did you text us! We were so fucking worried! Tell us what happened." You sigh,and lead them to the picnic table. You hopped on the table. Trying not to tear up," there was a horrid trauma that made me think about where we were on that mission that both of you were injured. Was to scared that I was gonna lose both of you! Those men today were the same age you two were at that time! Could not focus! " both of them sat on the table with santi on her right side. Benny on her left. Each took her hand to squeeze them. Santi kisses her cheek," oh our poor baby. I Wish you called us. Don't want you to go through that alone. Look at us baby. You saved us that day! " Benny rubs your leg and places a kiss on your other cheek," he is right darling. We don't want you to be alone. Next time. You call us when you have another episode." You smile,and kiss your boys' sweet lips. Santi gets the ball," now that is over. Come on baby! Time for a 2 against 1 loser has do what the winner says" oh you know if either one of them wins. Means you will have to call in sick.
Summary: here is another entry for @autumnleaves1991-blog's wednesday writing challenge. Benny and Santi takes their love to a romantic get away.
Note: major 18+ content. no minors allowed to read this!!
Disaster that is what is! Your house you share with your boys has suffered nothing but problems. Since moving in this old house months ago. Three of you went through plumbing, electrical,and now a new crisis. Termites. The exterminator said you all have to leave for a few days so they could treat the problem. Boys had an idea. Go to a nice hotel. Make a nice romantic getaway. You were excited about the idea. Because you were about to have a nervous breakdown.
The boys did a great job finding the place. Feels like another world. The pool looks so tranquil. That is the first thing you wanted to do is soak in the water. Your handsome men have other plans. To go out for a romantic dinner.
After the nice dinner. The boys went to take a nice nap. Since it was late. No one is around. It was a good opportunity to relax in the pool. Hell with wearing a suit. You feel adventurous. Why go skinny dipping? Before getting into the cool water,you put your hair up so you won't get it wet. It was not long till Benny came to join you. He noticed you when he looked out of the window seeing his love enjoying herself. He swims up to you. Kissing you slowly. Whispers as he kisses your neck," my naughty bride. You know what it does to me when I see you out here? Makes me want to take you right now,but you have to be quiet. Don't want to wake everyone up." You nod as he wraps your legs around him while he swims to a secluded spot. Away from prying eyes. He starts to kiss you nice and slow. Closing your eyes as he makes you quiver. It was not long till Santi came looking for the two of you. Noticed the familiar silhouettes on the other side of the pool. He swims right over to the two of you. Now he is right next to you. Nibbles on your neck," damn! Wished I knew that the two were gonna be out here together. Or I would have missed my chance to be with my bride." Benny chuckles as he continues on his quest," I found her out here out all by herself. Could not help it." Both of them go under the water to devour your lower body with pleasure. You want to scream with desire. Not till santi comes up to kiss you. Both of them noticed that you are getting cold. Benny swims over to fetch your towel,and carries you back to the room. Tell you to take a shower so you can warm up. You know what they have in mind. To warm you up again with their bodies. Not a bad idea. As soon as you finish your shower. You get between your boys. Laying your head on Benny's warm chest while Santi takes you from the behind. You moan as he works his magic on your body. Benny kisses your head," yes baby enjoy Pope's cock" you want to explode so badly! You know he won't let you until he tells you to. Could not stand it anymore. You cum like crazy! Santi got up to get a warm cloth to clean you up. Then snuggle with you," sleep now our love. Need your strength for the next round." You can't wait for what they have in mind.
